bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
RMRP mutations in cartilage‐hair hypoplasia
Authors: Hermanns Pia , Tran Alyssa , Munivez Elda , Carter Susan , Zabel Bernhard , Lee Brendan , Leroy Jules G.
Published: July 2006

Cartilage hair hypoplasia (CHH) or McKusick type metaphyseal chondrodysplasia (MCD) (OMIM # 250250) is due to either the homozygous or compound heterozygous mutations in the nuclear encoded, non‐coding RNA gene RMRP. Twenty‐seven CHH patients were referred for molecular evaluation of the clinical diagnosis. RMRP mutations were found in 22 patients. The phenotype in one of the five mutation‐negative patients was fully congruent with the adopted case definition of CHH. In a second of these patients, the diagnosis of Schmid type MCD (OMIM # 156500) was made and confirmed by the detection of a mutation in the COL10A1 gene. The remaining patients most likely represent one or more MCDs hitherto not yet delineated. The pattern of cumulative growth in infancy and early childhood in the latter four patients was the single feature with greatest negative predictive power for CHH. Fourteen mutations detected here, had not been reported previously. In this ethnically heterogeneous population, we performed a retrospective study to compare the prevalence of clinical features compared to previous reports based mostly on more ethnically homogenous groups. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Microdissection‐based high‐resolution genomic array analysis of two patients with cytogenetically identical interstitial deletions of chromosome 1q but distinct clinical phenotypes
Authors: Rice G.M. , Qi Z. , Selzer R. , Richmond T. , Thompson K. , Pauli R.M. , Yu J.
Published: July 2006

We describe two boys with cytogenetically identical interstitial deletions in the q42.11‐q42.13 region of the long arm of chromosome 1 detected by high‐resolution G‐banding analysis. These children share some phenotypic features but also exhibit distinct morphologic differences. We further characterized the deletions using a new technical strategy—microdissection‐based high‐resolution genomic array (MHGA) analysis—to define the breakpoints, genomic sizes, and gene contents of the deletions. This showed that the patients had distinguishable deletions that were adjacent but did not overlap, thus explaining the observed phenotypic differences. These results were surprising because we expected at least some degree of overlap to explain the features that were shared. MHGA can quickly give precise and detailed information about any rearrangement in the genome using as little material as a single cell. This novel strategy provides unique advantages for both clinical diagnosis and genomic research. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Trisomy 8q and partial trisomy 22 in a 43‐year‐old man with moderate intellectual disability, epilepsy and large cell non‐Hodgkin lymphoma
Authors: Helbig Ingo , Wirtenberger Michael , Jauch Anna , Hager Hans‐Dieter , Tariverdian Gholamali , Hemminki Kari , Burwinkel Barbara , Klaes Ruediger
Published: July 2006

Partial trisomies are chromosome abnormalities resulting in a broad range of malformations depending on the size and location of the chromosomal rearrangement. Whereas diagnosis of these syndromes is usually made in early childhood, few descriptions exist about the clinical picture in adulthood. We report on a patient diagnosed at the age of 43 years with a 47,XY,+der(22)t(8;22)(q24.13;q11.21) karyotype and predominant clinical features of trisomy 8q. To our knowledge, this is the oldest patient described with a partial trisomy 8. The patient presented with moderate intellectual disability, a past history of epilepsy and facial anomalies. In addition, a large cell non‐Hodgkin lymphoma was diagnosed in adulthood. Detailed breakpoint mapping by single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) arrays showed that the derivative chromosome contains a full‐length copy of the C‐MYC oncogene. Given that trisomy 8q is the most frequent secondary chromosomal abnormality in hematological diseases, the possibility of a genetic predisposition for these disorders in patients with 8q duplication is raised. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Congenital malformations among liveborn infants with trisomies 18 and 13
Authors: Pont Stephen J. , Robbins James M. , Bird T.M. , Gibson James B. , Cleves Mario A. , Tilford John M. , Aitken Mary E.
Published: July 2006

Trisomy 18 and trisomy 13 are associated with serious and/or fatal birth defects, with death frequently occurring in the first month of life. Previous studies are limited by small samples and are dated. This study characterized the comorbid birth defects associated with trisomy 18 and trisomy 13 among US liveborn infants using the Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project's Kids' Inpatient Database and Nationwide Inpatient Sample, two large, current and nationally representative databases. The occurrence of 39 commonly reported comorbid birth defects among infants with trisomies 18 and 13 was compared to the occurrence of malformations among newborns without trisomies. The prevalences of trisomy 18 and 13 were 1.29/10,000 and 0.85/10,000 live births, respectively. Among infants with trisomy 18, 61% were female, 45.4% with heart defects. Among those with trisomy 13, 53% were female, 38.4% had heart defects, 24.5% had orofacial anomalies, and 11.2% had central nervous system abnormalities. More than half of the newborns with both conditions died prior to discharge. This updated information can be used to inform clinical decision‐making and may help providers better prepare families for infants with trisomies. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Resistivity imaging survey of the Roman barrows at Bartlow, Cambridgeshire, UK
Authors: Astin Timothy , Eckardt Hella , Hay Sophie
Published: July 2006

Resistivity imaging was carried out on four large Roman barrows at Bartlow in Cambridgeshire. The geophysical survey formed part of a wider research project designed to record and assess the landscape context of the largest surviving Roman burial mounds in Britain. The barrows today range in height from 6.6 m to 13.2 m and their steep profile posed particular practical and modelling challenges. Data were obtained using a Campus Geopulse resistance meter with up to 50 electrodes spaced at 1 m intervals and lines up to 76 m long. A total of 24 lines was obtained. Topographic corrections were applied to the pseudosections, which were inverted using Res2Dinv and Res3Dinv. Resistivity imaging was particularly successful in identifying evidence for the antiquarian explorations of the site. Central collapse features or in‐filled tunnels image as high resistance features in all barrows and in one (Barrow IV) there is also a low resistance feature in the approximate position of a known antiquarian tunnel. Barrow VI had a thick covering of high‐resistivity that may relate to nineteenth century landscaping and reconstruction of this monument. Resistivity imaging also revealed possible evidence for ancient revetments in all four large barrows. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effects of a moderate‐intensity static magnetic field on VEGF‐A stimulated endothelial capillary tubule formation in vitro
Authors: Okano Hideyuki , Onmori Rie , Tomita Naohide , Ikada Yoshito
Published: July 2006

Effects of a moderate‐intensity static magnetic field (SMF) on the early‐stage development of endothelial capillary tubule formation were examined during the initial cell growth periods using co‐cultured human umbilical vein endothelial cells and human diploid fibroblasts. The co‐cultured cells within a well (16 mm in diameter) were exposed to SMF intensity up to 120 mT (Bmax) with the maximum spatial gradient of 21 mT/mm using a disc‐shaped permanent magnet (16 mm in diameter and 2.5 mm in height) for up to 10 days. Control exposure was performed without magnet. Some vascular endothelial cells were treated with vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)‐A (10 ng/ml) to promote the tubule formation every 2–3 days. Four experimental protocols were performed: (1) non‐exposure (control); (2) SMF exposure alone; (3) non‐exposure with VEGF‐A; (4) SMF exposure with VEGF‐A. Photomicrographs of tubule cells immunostained with an anti‐platelet‐endothelial cell adhesion molecule‐1 (PECAM‐1 [CD31[) antibody as a pan‐endothelial marker, were analyzed after culture at 37 °C for 4, 7, and 10 days. The mean values of the area density and the length of tubules (related mainly to arteriogenesis) as well as the number of bifurcations (related mainly to angiogenesis) were determined as parameters of tubule formation and were compared between the groups. After a 10 day incubation, in the peripheral part of the culture wells, SMF alone significantly promoted the tubule formation in terms of the area density and the length of tubules, compared with control group. In the central part of the wells, however, SMF did not cause any significant changes in the parameters of tubule formation. After a 7 day incubation, VEGF‐A significantly promoted all the parameters of tubule formation in any part of the wells, compared with control group. With regard to the synergistic effects of SMF and VEGF‐A on tubule formation, after a 10 day incubation, SMF significantly promoted the VEGF‐A‐increased area density and length of tubules in the peripheral part of the wells, compared with the VEGF‐A treatment alone. However, SMF did not induce any significant changes in the VEGF‐A‐increased number of bifurcations in any part of the wells. The tubule cells observed in the wells had elongated, spindle‐like shapes, and the direction of cell elongation was random, irrespective of the presence and direction of SMF. These findings suggest that the application of SMF to intact or VEGF‐A‐stimulated vascular endothelial cells leads mainly to promote or enhance arteriogenesis in the peripheral part of the wells, where the spatial gradient increases relative to the central part. The effects of SMF on the VEGF‐A‐enhanced tubule formation appear to be synergistic or additive in arteriogenesis but not in angiogenesis. Bioelectromagnetics 27:628–640, 2006. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Proposal for classification of the suprascapular notch: A study on 423 dried scapulas
Authors: Natsis K. , Totlis T. , Tsikaras P. , Appell H.J. , Skandalakis P. , Koebke J.
Published: July 2006

The present study proposes a simple and reproducible method to classify the morphology of the suprascapular notch (SSN), on the basis of specific geometrical parameters that clearly distinguish one type from another. Four hundred twenty‐three dried scapulas from the Department of Anatomy in the University of Cologne, Germany, were examined. Five types of SSN were observed: type I, without a discrete notch, 35 (8.3%); type II, a notch that was longest in its transverse diameter, 177 (41.85%); type III, a notch that was longest in its vertical diameter, 177 (41.85%); type IV, a bony foramen, 31 (7.3%); type V, a notch and a bony foramen, 3 (0.7%). For the vertical diameter, we took the maximal diameter of the notch perpendicular to the imaginary line that joins the two superior corners of the notch. For the transverse diameter, we took the diameter perpendicular to the midpoint of the vertical diameter. This classification based on the vertical and the transverse diameters of the SSN suggested a clear distinction of the notch types. This simple classification included all the anatomical variations of the SSN. Using this method, the clinician will be able to define easily and quickly the notch type on a plain radiograph, and perhaps be able to correlate suprascapular nerve entrapment with a specific type of SSN. Clin. Anat. 20:135–139, 2007. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Are cultural differences overrated? Examining the influence of national culture on international buyer‐seller relationships
Authors: Pressey Andrew D. , Selassie Habte G.
Published: July 2006

The notion that differences in national culture influence international buyer‐seller relationships (and, indeed, all aspects of international management) is not only held as true but also axiomatic. This study questions the degree to which cultural differences impact upon buyer‐seller relations for seven key dimensions using Hofstede's indices of culture. Via two stages of data collection using two methodological approaches (seven interviews and 322 useable responses from a mail survey), the impact of culture on international buyer‐seller relationships was examined. The study's findings identified little evidence to support the popular idea that culture exerts a significant influence on international business relationships. Instead, the findings suggest that some managers perceived factors such as communication/language barriers, political barriers, geographic distance, economic factors, industry barriers, time differences, technology barriers, legal differences and infrastructure barriers as being more likely to have a greater impact on cross‐national relationships. Copyright © 2003 Henry Stewart Publications.
Web metrics: measuring patterns in online shopping
Authors: Jaillet Hélène F.
Published: July 2006

The Web has become a primary source of product information for online consumers. As such, basic questions regarding how consumers approach the search process need to be understood and measured if marketers and website developers are to identify patterns or trends in consumer information search strategies. To observe and measure changes in consumer search behaviour, it is necessary to establish benchmarks that can, at a later date, be compared with subsequent observation measurements. This study recorded the search activities of 37 subjects as they searched for information regarding the purchase of two products: one where they had expert product knowledge and one where they had novice product knowledge. Significance was found for particular site types used and, more importantly, in patterns of site type usage. The methodology and benchmarks offer researchers a means of tracking changes in consumer search behaviour on the Web. Copyright © 2003 Henry Stewart Publications.
Use it or lose it: purchase acceleration effects of time‐limited promotions
Authors: Aggarwal Praveen , Vaidyanathan Rajiv
Published: July 2006

While researchers have examined the impact of retail promotions on purchase acceleration in the past, the distinction between time‐limited and time‐independent promotions has not been made in this context. In this paper, the authors report findings from two studies. In Study 1, it was found that promotions of short duration (time‐limited), such as store coupons, accelerate purchases, whereas promotions of longer duration (time‐independent), such as manufacturer's coupons, have no such impact. In Study 2, the impact of semantic cues was examined highlighting the time‐limited nature of promotions (such as ‘10 Hours Only Sale’), impact on purchase willingness, intent to search further for deals and attitudes towards the deal. Copyright © 2003 Henry Stewart Publications.
The role of social power relations in gift giving on Valentine's Day
Authors: Rugimbana Robert , Donahay Brett , Neal Christopher , Polonsky Michael Jay
Published: July 2006

This study investigates motives for gift giving by young males on Valentine's Day and advances previous research on this ritual by controlling for the giving context (occasion and relationship). The study is consistent with previous work by Goodwin et al. (1990) which found that motivations based on obligation, self‐interest and altruism do indeed exist. More significantly, however, this study points to the finding that individual motivations for the gift‐giving ritual on Valentine's Day may be more intricately intertwined and have deeper manifestations in the perceived social power relationship between the genders. The study recommends that marketers delve beyond the immediate horizon of individual motivations and become even more acutely aware of the ‘intrinsic social power messages’ that arise from the conjoint influences of motivations. This would have great potential for marketing even more meaningful gift products to both givers and receivers. Copyright © 2002 Henry Stewart Publications Ltd.
Life events and brand preference changes
Authors: Mathur Anil , Moschis George P. , Lee Euehun
Published: July 2006

Three types of variable have been used to explain brand preference changes: consumer characteristics, marketing mix factors and situational influences. The study presented in this paper focuses on the relationship between life events experienced by individuals, resultant stress and lifestyle changes and changes in brand preferences. Based on theory and past research, a model is proposed and tested. The data support the notion that brand preference changes may be viewed as the outcome of adjustments to new life conditions and changes in consumption lifestyles that reflect consumer efforts to cope with stressful life changes. Implications for consumer research are also discussed. Copyright © 2003 Henry Stewart Publications.
A theoretical exploration and model of consumer expectations, post‐purchase affective states and affective behaviour
Authors: Santos Jessica , Boote Jonathan
Published: July 2006

Through a detailed review of the service quality and (dis)satisfaction literatures, this paper presents a theoretical model exploring the interrelationship between expectations, affective post‐purchase states and affective behaviour. Drawing together a comprehensive hierarchy of expectations culled from the service quality literature, the authors seek to apply levels of expectation to specific post‐purchase affective states and affective behaviour. The authors argue that consumers have two types of expectation that influence post‐purchase affective states: the core or predictive ‘will be’ expectation; and peripheral expectations—that can range from the ideal standard to the minimum tolerable level. By applying the levels‐of‐expectation approach to the expectation‐disconfirmation paradigm, the authors argue that there are four types of post‐purchase affective states: delight, satisfaction (or positive indifference), acceptance (or negative indifference) and dissatisfaction. These four states may lead onto affective action—ie varying degrees of complaining or complimenting behaviour. The paper presents 11 propositions relating to expectations and their interrelationship with post‐purchase affective states and subsequent consumer behaviour, with the aim of stimulating further scholarly enquiry. The managerial implications of the analysis are also considered. Copyright © 2003 Henry Stewart Publications.
The impact of fragrance on consumer choice
Authors: Milotic Daniel
Published: July 2006

The following research focuses on fragrance (sense of smell) as a primary driver in consumer choice. The fragrance industry is also discussed, along with the impact of atmospherics and the surrounding environment on the consumer. A case study on bar soaps shows how changes to the product fragrance or packaging can affect the purchase decision.

The learning and recommendations apply directly to the formation of marketing strategy and are particularly important to categories such as body cleaning and other categories where fragrance is a primary driver in consumer choice, as well as (to a lesser extent) any products that are (or might be potentially) fragranced. The findings affect the ultimate product packaging, colour, appearance and fragrance. Copyright © 2003 Henry Stewart Publications.
Using sonic branding in the retail environment — an easy and effective way to create consumer brand loyalty while enhancing the in‐store experience
Authors: Fulberg Paul
Published: July 2006

Retail is no longer simply a point of purchase, it has now become part of a brand's communications strategy. As brands begin to explore the benefits of the retail environment they are mostly failing to utilise fully its ability to communicate with all the senses. Sonic branding has yet to make a significant impact on the retail environment and yet it is a powerful tool in the development of brand loyalty. As brands search for new ways of communicating with consumers both locally and globally, sonic branding will become a key tool in the creation of fully immersive brand experiences. Copyright © 2003 Henry Stewart Publications.
The effect of product type on value linkages in the means‐end chain: implications for theory and method
Authors: Mort Gillian Sullivan , Rose Trista
Published: July 2006

Means‐end chain (MEC) theory proposes that consumer motivation can only be understood in terms of the hierarchical linkages between attributes, consequences and values. Other researchers have suggested a much more immediate impact of values on motivation. Seeking to explain these conflicting views, this research suggests and empirically tests the proposition that the role of values in consumer motivation differs by product type and also tests that the linkages are not affected by individual differences in the need for cognition. A sample of 191 consumers indicated their motivation to consume utilitarian and non‐utilitarian products using an adapted association pattern matrix technique. Responses were analysed using mixed‐design ANOVAs with planned comparisons. Results indicate significant differences related to product type in the role of values in consumer motivation. Limitations, implications for MEC theory and future research are discussed. Copyright © 2004 Henry Stewart Publications Ltd.
Greenpeace campaign case study — StopEsso
Authors: Gueterbock Rob
Published: July 2006

As some corporations begin to enjoy power and influence on a scale comparable with or even more extensive than governments, it is consumers rather than voters who are starting to hold the key to political and social change. Companies which fail to take consumer opinion into account face real threats to their brand image, and ultimately to their bottom line. This case study explores the Greenpeace‐led StopEsso campaign, detailing the campaign history, strategy and tactics, and assessing its impact so far. It shows how negative consumer perceptions of ExxonMobil (Esso), based around the issue of the company's approach to climate change, are damaging the company's interests and that the changing interactions of other key stakeholders with the company could also threaten Exxon's competitiveness.

It concludes that as corporate power increases, so must corporate responsibility, for consumers are increasingly unwilling to accept dishonest or unfair behaviour, and increasingly willing to withdraw their financial support for companies which fail to respond to their expectations. Copyright © 2004 Henry Stewart Publications Ltd.
Simultaneous media usage: a critical consumer orientation to media planning
Authors: Pilotta Joseph J. , Schultz Don E. , Drenik Gary , Rist Philip
Published: July 2006

This research study is the third in a series of surveys exploring the incidence of simultaneous media usage among a national sample of US consumers. The research is based on 12,322 respondents who were sampled via an online network. The findings show that simultaneous media usage, ie multiple exposures to various media forms at a single point in time for the same media consumer, occurs in and among a substantial portion of the US media population. The existence of simultaneous media exposures, created by multi‐tasking consumers, is a fact in today's media marketplace. The existence of simultaneous media exposures undermines most current media measurement systems as they are defined as isolated environments. Thus, the challenge of this paper is for media management to rethink how media evaluations should be rethought for the 21st century. Copyright © 2004 Henry Stewart Publications Ltd.
Context effects in marketing practice: the case of mood
Authors: Bakamitsos Georgios A. , Siomkos George J.
Published: July 2006

The role of individuals' affective state on information processing and decision making has attracted the attention of researchers in the social sciences. Building on the findings reported in the literature, the authors examine the effects of mood on marketing practice. Implications for advertising practices as well as the potential manipulation of elements of the physical store/retail environment (atmospherics) in which consumers operate in order to affect behaviour are discussed. Copyright © 2004 Henry Stewart Publications.
‘Crossing culture’: a multi‐method enquiry into consumer behaviour and the experience of cultural transition
Authors: Davies Andrea , Fitchett James A.
Published: July 2006

Visitors, travellers and migrants have a range of reactions to ‘crossing culture’, ie moving from one cultural environment to another. This paper reports a two‐stage multi‐method study that examines how visitors' consumer behaviour and use of material possessions influence resolution of cultural fracture during periods of cultural transition. The research consisted of a quantitative survey (n = 598) and a qualitative ethnoconsumerist study of visitors to the UK. Analysis of the survey data shows that nationality is a poor indicator of crossing‐culture experiences. A Six Typology Model of Cultural Fracture identified six cluster groups using combinations of three types of cultural fracture experience: symbolic fracture, emotional fracture and functional fracture. The six clusters vary by consumer behaviour and possession use. The ethnoconsumerist study illustrates that consumer‐related activities and possession used together provide an important resource that visitors can use to make sense of crossing‐culture experiences. Product categories, retail formats and shopping conventions are also implicated in experiences of cultural fracture to varying degrees. The paper concludes by considering the limitations of importing a priori assumptions regarding nationality and ethnic differences in cross‐cultural consumer research, and discusses some of the potential benefits of multi‐method research in this context. Copyright © 2004 Henry Stewart Publications.
The consequences of unmet needs: the evolving role of motivation in consumer research
Authors: Pincus Jeremy
Published: July 2006

This paper proposes that dominant theories of human motivation rest on the notion of salient unmet needs. Motivational theories, represented by biological instinct theories (thesis) and social cognitive theories (antithesis), are now showing signs of synthesis within the domain of consumer research. Consumer and marketing research techniques can be made more insightful and actionable by introducing measures of the behavioural and emotional meaning of unmet needs through integration of the key elements of motivation research within a quantitative measurement system. Copyright © 2004 Henry Stewart Publications.
Dimensions of brand purchasing behaviour: consumers in the 18–24 age group
Authors: Wood Lisa
Published: July 2006

This paper reports the results of a study of brand selection and loyalty within the 18–24 age group. The study explores brand loyalty behaviour across different product categories, and investigates the dimensions that drive loyalty behaviour within this age group. First, the construct of brand loyalty is defined, followed by an overview of key research in the area. Finally, the study itself is detailed. The study concludes that there is a significant difference in the degree of brand loyalty exhibited by the 18–24‐year‐old respondents across product categories. The dimensions of brand selection also vary by product type. Brand heritage in terms of parental influence was evident in coffee and toothpaste purchase, with brand as a reflection of self‐image being something that is important to clothing brands. Value and variety are important attributes of cereal brand selection. Copyright © 2004 Henry Stewart Publications Ltd.
Exploring consumer status and conspicuous consumption
Authors: O'Cass Aron , McEwen Hmily
Published: July 2006

In seeking to expand an understanding of consumption, this study assesses the relationship between status consumption and conspicuous consumption. Theoretically, the relationship between status consumption and conspicuous consumption is problematic and, therefore, the main focus of this paper examines the theoretical and empirical separation of consumers' status consumption and conspicuous consumption. Data were gathered via a survey of individuals aged between 18 and 25. The findings indicate that status consumption and conspicuous consumption are distinct constructs. Differences in status consumption tendencies between males and females were not found; however, in relation to conspicuous consumption gender differences were found. Status consumption was affected by self‐monitoring and interpersonal influences, but conspicuous consumption was affected only by interpersonal influences. The brands examined also clearly differed in terms of status and conspicuous consumption perceptions. Copyright © 2004 Henry Stewart Publications Ltd.
Segmenting global markets by generational cohorts: determining motivations by age
Authors: Schewe Charles D. , Meredith Geoffrey
Published: July 2006

Marketing has long rested on the use of market segmentation. While birth age has been a useful way to create groups, it describes segments but in itself does not help to understand segment motivations. Environmental events experienced during one's coming‐of‐age years, however, create values that remain relatively unchanged throughout one's life. Such values provide a common bond for those in that age group, or cohort. Segmenting by ‘coming‐of‐age’ age provides a richer segmentation approach than birth age. This approach, known to work in America, is used in this paper to create generational cohorts in Russia and in Brazil. Copyright © 2004 Henry Stewart Publications Ltd.
Consumer knowledge and use of country‐of‐origin information at the point of purchase
Authors: Liefeld John P.
Published: July 2006

This paper reports an investigation of American and Canadian consumer acquisition and/or knowledge of the country of origin of products at the time of purchase. Consumer knowledge of the country of origin of purchased products was tested as purchasers left the cash register. If the purchaser knew the country of origin of the product just purchased, they were further questioned to discover the role such knowledge might have played in their choice between alternatives. More than 93 per cent of 1,248 purchasers intercepted at the cash register had not acquired while shopping, or did not know from prior experience, the country of origin of a product they had just purchased. Of the 91 (6.5 per cent) who had acquired or knew the country of origin of a product they had just purchased, only 27 (2.2 per cent of the total) indicated that their knowledge of the product's country of origin possibly might have played a role in their product choice. These findings reveal that the country of origin of products is not an important attribute in the choice processes of the great majority of North American consumers. Confirmation of these findings by replication with less obtrusive and more externally valid measures of consumer acquisition and use of product information prior to purchase is needed. Copyright © 2004 Henry Stewart Publications.
Creating cluster‐specific purchase profiles from point‐of‐sale scanner data and geodemographic clusters: improving category management at a major US grocery chain
Authors: Duchessi Peter , Schaninger Charles M. , Nowak Thomas
Published: July 2006

In the retail grocery industry, category management is the process of managing categories of products for greater profitability and customer value. Category management is a data‐driven process and, as a result, can benefit from point‐of‐sale (POS) scanner data. This paper describes the results of a one‐year project that shows how to use POS scanner data and geodemographic clusters to improve the practice of category management at Price Chopper, a large US grocery chain. The paper demonstrates how to merge POS scanner data with geodemographic clusters to create detailed purchase profiles that provide valuable information to category managers. It also discusses the trials and tribulations of using scanner data and provides several findings as implications (eg store‐specific promotions should be more effective than chain‐wide promotions for stores servicing a small number of geodemographic clusters with distinct shopping profiles) that supermarket managers can immediately use to improve existing promotional strategies. The paper's contents should be relevant to academicians and practitioners interested in improving the practice of category management in the UK, USA, Western Europe and Australia. Copyright © 2004 Henry Stewart Publications.
Wrestling with American values: an exploratory investigation of World Wrestling EntertainmentTM as a product‐based subculture
Authors: Deeter‐Schmelz Dawn R. , Sojka Jane Z.
Published: July 2006

Described as the ‘face of American culture’, World Wrestling EntertainmentTM (WWE) events are broadcast in over 162 countries and draw more than 500 million regular viewers. This paper explores the proposition that the WWE fan base represents a product‐based subculture in American society. Using a value laddering methodology, shared values of WWE fans are exposed and the proposition of core and unique cultural values is supported. Practitioner and theoretical implications of the results are discussed. Copyright © 2004 Henry Stewart Publications.
Deconstructing consumer behaviour: theory and practice
Authors: Marsden David
Published: July 2006

This paper challenges the conventional opposition, or distinction, between consumer behaviour theory and practice. This binary dualism, it is argued, is predicated on a simplistic ‘either/or’ logic that ignores the effects theory and practice have on each other. Furthermore, it obscures a hierarchical relationship between academic researchers and marketing practitioners in which basic research is more dominant and privileged than applied research. In response to these criticisms, an alternative ‘both/and’ logic is proposed for exploring the interrelationships between consumer behaviour theory and practice and new social relations among consumer researchers. Copyright © 2001 Henry Stewart Publications.
Salesperson characteristics affecting consumer complaint responses
Authors: Clopton Stephen W. , Stoddard James E. , Clay Jennifer W.
Published: July 2006

The important relationship between consumer complaint behaviour and brand and store loyalty is well established. The range of factors that favourably influence the outcomes of complaining have received relatively less research attention. Therefore, this study tests the effects of two salesperson source characteristics: willingness to listen and product/store knowledge, on consumer complaint‐related perceptions and intentions in a retail setting. Mall shoppers participated in a consumer complaint experiment to test the hypothesised effects. The results indicate that both characteristics affect customer complaint responses, as well as consumer perceptions of the salesperson and the retail store. The findings of the study demonstrate that salesperson characteristics are important influences on positive or negative consumer complaint responses. Copyright © 2001 Henry Stewart Publications.
Self‐concept: a tourism application
Authors: Todd Sarah
Published: July 2006

Although well accepted by consumer behaviourists in general, self‐concept has received relatively little attention from tourism researchers. This is despite the potential it would appear to offer in terms of enabling an enhanced understanding of how tourists feel and what they seek from the tourism experience. The application of a model of self‐concept in this study suggests self‐concept may provide an alternative segmentation base, giving insights into how people perceive themselves in the tourist role and their consequent behaviour. Copyright © 2001 Henry Stewart Publications.
Choices and preferences: testing the effect of nationality
Authors: Moss Gloria A. , Vinten Gerald
Published: July 2006

This paper presents exploratory research comparing French and UK life assurance literature. It highlights a number of critical differences in the approaches taken between the two countries, and places these in the context of the literature on cultural differences. The differences are illustrative of Samli's transference of Hofstede's findings to marketing. The implications of these findings are explored. Although there can be a universal Pan European approach, the research indicates the need to take national cultural considerations into account if one is not to perpetrate a jarring counter‐culturalism. It also seems likely that life assurance is not a prime candidate for global branding. Copyright © 2001 Henry Stewart Publications.
Researching consumers in virtual worlds: a cyberspace odyssey
Authors: Catterall Miriam , Maclaran Pauline
Published: July 2006

Following Belk's (1991) Consumer Behaviour Odyssey, the authors suggest the need for a new odyssey, one that focuses on consumers in virtual worlds. In this paper the authors discuss the relevance of virtual communities for marketers and how ethnographic research methods can be adapted to the online environment. The unique methodological problems, opportunities and ethical dilemmas for researchers are considered that online ethnography raises before an exploration of how discourse analysis can assist in the interpretation of data collected online. Copyright © 2002 Henry Stewart Publications.
Children and television advertising: when do they understand persuasive intent?
Authors: Oates Caroline , Blades Mark , Gunter Barrie
Published: July 2006

Children's response to television advertising is investigated in this paper. Children aged between six and ten years were tested for their recall, recognition and understanding of novel television advertisements. Children were able to recognise scenes from the advertisements after one exposure but recall of the brand names was poor for the younger children, even after three exposures. Recall for the advertising content increased by age and number of exposures. None of the six‐year‐olds and only a quarter of the eight‐year‐olds and a third of the ten‐year‐olds discussed advertising in terms of persuasion. Therefore, although children remember television advertisements, their purpose is not fully understood, even by many ten‐year‐olds. Copyright © 2002 Henry Stewart Publications.
The darkroom of the mind — what does neuropsychology now tell us about brands?
Authors: Gordon Wendy
Published: July 2006

How does a brand live and die in the memory? Where does the concept of a relationship with a brand fit into mental activity? What are thoughts, emotions and feelings and do people have them about brands in any meaningful way? What should one think about such concepts as consciousness and the unconscious in relation to brands and brand messages? Is the way in which managers of brands codify them a reflection of reality? These are only some of the fundamental questions that should concern professionals involved with organisations and brands. This paper draws on scientific discoveries about the human brain to build on the empirical knowledge that leaders in organisations, marketers, academics and researchers have gained about brands over the last five decades.

The first part of the paper highlights the inconsistencies that occur between what is found in the development and evaluation of brand strategy and what happens in ‘real life’. It suggests that the newly merged disciplines of neuroscience and cognitive psychology (called neuropsychology) offer the scientific basis for understanding how human beings create, store, recall and relate to brands in everyday life. The second part explains some of the most relevant neuropsychological discoveries about the brain in terms of the implications for brand marketing. The topics covered are: brain functions and structure; consciousness and the unconscious; memory and language. The paper concludes by thinking about the current practise of qualitative research and how it matches up to the findings of the new science. Copyright © 2002 Henry Stewart Publications.
Tomorrow's consumer — the shifting balance of power
Authors: Moynagh Michael , Worsley Richard
Published: July 2006

What are the prospects for consumerism? Often despised as self‐indulgent, consumers are frequently motivated by altruism and their needs to express their identity, to build relationships, to obtain fulfilment and even to find a substitute for religion. Mass‐customisation is producing fundamental change, revolutionising attitudes to choice, with a key role for agents (human and online) in helping people choose. Consumer power will grow and brands will be under pressure from rising consumer expectations. While retailers fight back with targeted marketing and special offers, brands will need to serve consumer needs as much as suppliers. Online shopping could transform consumer behaviour, driven by cost saving and convenience and spurred on by competition. Will retailers protect their traditional channels or go online because they are afraid not to? ‘Etailing’ will need to create consumer trust, so regulation will be critical, possibly leading to legal responsibilities for quality on Internet service providers (ISPs) and portals and with systems to help new entrants build a track record of reliability, thereby increasing competition, choice and consumer power. Copyright © 2002 Henry Stewart Publications.
An analysis of the concept of cool and its marketing implications
Authors: Nancarrow Clive , Nancarrow Pamela , Page Julie
Published: July 2006

Cool has become the favoured language of popular culture. This paper examines the roots of cool and its evolution with reference to its relevance to marketers. In particular, the work of Bourdieu and the concepts of cultural capital and cultural intermediaries are drawn on. The importance of talking to cultural intermediaries led Seagram to carry out a research programme that examines the process of adoption of alcoholic drinks and ways of reaching ‘style leaders’. Given the problem of recruiting and researching ‘style leaders’, the research employed specialist recruiters and moderators and a combination of direct and indirect questioning. Copyright © 2002 Henry Stewart Publications.
Myxovirescin A Biosynthesis is Directed by Hybrid Polyketide Synthases/Nonribosomal Peptide Synthetase, 3‐Hydroxy‐3‐Methylglutaryl–CoA Synthases, and trans‐Acting Acyltransferases
Authors: Simunovic Vesna , Zapp Josef , Rachid Shwan , Krug Daniel , Meiser Peter , Müller Rolf
Published: July 2006

Myxococcus xanthus DK1622 is shown to be a producer of myxovirescin (antibiotic TA) antibiotics. The myxovirescin biosynthetic gene cluster spans at least 21 open reading frames (ORFs) and covers a chromosomal region of approximately 83 kb. In silico analysis of myxovirescin ORFs in conjunction with genetic studies suggests the involvement of four type I polyketide synthases (PKSs; TaI, TaL, TaO, and TaP), one major hybrid PKS/NRPS (Ta‐1), and a number of monofunctional enzymes similar to the ones involved in type II fatty‐acid biosyntesis (FAB). Whereas deletion of either taI or taL causes a dramatic drop in myxovirescin production, deletion of both genes (ΔtaIL) leads to the complete loss of myxovirescin production. These results suggest that both TaI and TaL PKSs might act in conjunction with a methyltransferase, reductases, and a monooxygenase to produce the 2‐hydroxyvaleryl–S–ACP starter that is proposed to act as the biosynthetic primer in the initial condensation reaction with glycine. Polymerization of the remaining 11 acetates required for lactone formation is directed by 12 modules of Ta‐1, TaO, and TaP megasynthetases. All modules, except for the first module of TaL, lack cognate acyltransferase (AT) domains. Furthermore, deletion of a discrete tandem AT—encoded by taV—blocks myxovirescin production; this suggests an “in trans” mode of action. To embellish the macrocycle with methyl and ethyl moieties, assembly of the myxovirescin scaffold is proposed to switch twice from PKS to 3‐hydroxy‐3‐methylglutaryl–CoA (HMG–CoA)‐like biochemistry during biosynthesis. Disruption of the S‐adenosylmethionine (SAM)‐dependent methyltransferase, TaQ, shifts production toward two novel myxovirescin analogues, designated myxovirescin Qa and myxovirescin Qc. NMR analysis of purified myxovirescin Qa revealed the loss of the methoxy carbon atom. This novel analogue lacks bioactivity against E. coli.
Structure and Stability of TaON Polymorphs
Authors: Bredow Thomas , Lumey Marck‐Willem , Dronskowski Richard , Schilling Heikko , Pickardt Joachim , Lerch Martin
Published: July 2006

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract, please click on HTML or PDF.
Hydrothermal Synthesis and Crystal Structures of Two NLO Compounds, NaIO3×H2O and In(IO3)3.
Authors: Chen Xuean , Xue Haiping , Chang Xinan , Zhang Li , Zang Hegui , Xiao Weiqiang
Published: July 2006

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract, please click on HTML or PDF.
First Crystal Structure Studies of CaAlH5.
Authors: Weidenthaler Claudia , Frankcombe Terry J. , Felderhoff Michael
Published: July 2006

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract, please click on HTML or PDF.
Synthesis and Structure of K3Mg20In14, a Stuffed Variant of the BaHg11 Structure Type with a Magnesium—Indium Network.
Authors: Li Bin , Corbett John D.
Published: July 2006

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract, please click on HTML or PDF.
Local Structure of Actinide Dioxide Solid Solutions Th1‐xUxO2 and Th1‐xPuxO2
Authors: Hubert S. , Purans J. , Heisbourg G. , Moisy P. , Dacheux N.
Published: July 2006

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract, please click on HTML or PDF.
Synthesis, Structure and Properties of a New Zintl Phase: SrLiSb.
Authors: Gupta Shalabh , Ganguli Ashok K.
Published: July 2006

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract, please click on HTML or PDF.
A New Luminescent Material, Sr2SnO4:Eu3+.
Authors: Yang H. M. , Shi J. X. , Gong M. L.
Published: July 2006

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract, please click on HTML or PDF.
Thermoelectric Performance Quaternary Cu—Bi—Sb—Te Alloys Prepared by Cold Pressing.
Authors: Cui J. L.
Published: July 2006

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract, please click on HTML or PDF.
Solid State Phase Equilibria in the Ternary Nd—Si—B System at 1270 K.
Authors: Roger Jerome , Babizhetskyy Volodymyr , Jardin Regis , Halet Jean‐Francois , Guerin Roland
Published: July 2006

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract, please click on HTML or PDF.
Lithium—Sodium Metazirconate Solid Solutions, Li2‐xNaxZrO3 (0 ≤ x ≤ 2): A Hierarchical Architecture.
Authors: Pfeiffer Heriberto , Lima Enrique , Bosch Pedro
Published: July 2006

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract, please click on HTML or PDF.
Catalytic Activity of Copper Oxide/Zinc Oxide Composites Prepared by Thermolysis of Crystallographically Defined Bimetallic Coordination Compounds.
Authors: Weiss Rainer , Guo Yanzhi , Vukojevic Sascha , Khodeir Lamma , Boese Roland , Schueth Ferdi , Muhler Martin , Epple Matthias
Published: July 2006

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract, please click on HTML or PDF.