bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Ternary Rare Earth Platinum Germanides RE2Pt9Ge3 (RE = Y, Tb–Lu) Crystallizing with a Monoclinic Structure Closely Related to Orthorhombic Y2Co3Ga9
Authors: Prots Yurii , Borrmann Horst , Schnelle Walter , Jeitschko Wolfgang 
Published: April 2005

AbstractA new series of isotypic germanides RE2Pt9Ge3 (RE = Y, Tb‐Lu) was prepared by arc‐melting of the elemental components or in the case of the ytterbium compound via induction heating in a high‐frequency furnace. Subsequently, all samples were annealed at temperatures between 900 and 1000 °C. The investigated germanides crystallize in a new monoclinic structure type which for Tb2Pt9Ge3 was determined from single‐crystal X‐ray data: C2/c (no. 15), mC56, Z = 4, a = 13.373(1) Å, b = 7.742(1) Å, c = 10.029(1) Å, β = 116.73(1)°, RF = 0.030 for 973 structure factors and 67 variable parameters. The structures of Dy2Pt9Ge3 (a = 13.346(1) Å, b = 7.735(1) Å, c = 10.015(1) Å, β = 116.72(1)°, RF = 0.039, 1240 F's, 67 variables) and Ho2Pt9Ge3 (a = 13.332(1) Å, b = 7.723(1) Å, c = 9.999(1) Å, β = 116.67(1)°, RF = 0.047, 864 F's, 67 variables) were refined from single‐crystal data, too. The structure may be described as an ABAB stacking of two different pseudo‐trigonal layers with compositions RE2Pt3 (designated A) and Pt2Ge (designated B). Layers B may be considered as distorted hexagonal close packed, similar to a compression of three adjacent layers I–Cd–I of the CdI2 type structure. Structural relationships among the structures of Tb2Pt9Ge3, Y2Co3Ga9, Yb2Pd3Ga9, Er4Pt9Al24, Sc1.2Fe4Si9.8, and ErNi3Al9 are discussed. The temperature dependence of magnetic susceptibility, electrical resistivity, and specific heat capacity of the compounds RE2Pt9Ge3 (RE = Y, Tb‐Er, Yb, Lu) were investigated. All of them are metallic conductors. Y2Pt9Ge3 and Lu2Pt9Ge3 are Pauli paramagnets, while the others show Curie paramagnetic behavior with antiferromagnetic ordering temperatures of 5 K (for the Dy compound) or less. Ytterbium in Yb2Pt9Ge3 takes the trivalent oxidation state. Thermodynamic standard values at 298.15 K are derived and crystal electric field contributions are discussed.
Tieftemperaturuntersuchungen von Wasserstoffbrückenbindungen in den Hydroxiden β‐Be(OH)2 und ε‐Zn(OH)2 mit Raman‐Spektroskopie sowie Röntgen‐ und Neutronenbeugung
Authors: Jacobs Herbert , Niemann Anke , Kockelmann Winfried 
Published: April 2005

AbstractLow Temperature Investigations of Hydrogen Bridge Bonds in the Hydroxides β‐Be(OH)2 and ε‐Zn(OH)2 by Raman‐Spectroscopy as well as X‐Ray and Neutron DiffractionFully and partially deuterated samples of β‐Be(OH)2 and ε‐Zn(OH)2 were investigated by Raman‐spectroscopy in the temperature range from ∼ 10 K to ∼ 300 K. X‐ray and neutron diffraction data from 5 K to 245 K were evaluated for β‐Be(OD)2 on powder samples. Neutron diffraction on ε‐Zn(OD)2 was carried out between 5 K and 298 K. Within these temperature regions the two hydroxides crystallize isotypic with orthorhombic symmetry, space group P212121 with Z = 4.The Raman‐spectra of β‐Be(OH)2 show an unexpected and until now not understood effect: with decreasing temperatures beginning at ∼ 40 K the stretching modes of the two crystallograpically inequivalent hydroxide ions connected by hydrogen bridgebonds shift to higher wave numbers. For ε‐Zn(OH)2 this inversion occurs already at 50 K and the effect is markedly stronger.
Central and peripheral components of the pressor effect of anandamide in urethane‐anaesthetized rats
Authors: Kwolek Grzegorz , Zakrzeska Agnieszka , Schlicker Eberhard , Göthert Manfred , Godlewski Grzegorz , Malinowska Barbara 
Published: April 2005

We wanted to search for the mechanism(s) responsible for the brief pressor response induced by anandamide in urethane‐anaesthetized rats.
The anandamide‐induced pressor effect was not modified by the antagonists of cannabinoid CB1 and vanilloid TRPV1 receptors, SR 141716A (3 μmol kg−1) and capsazepine (1 μmol kg−1), respectively, by bilateral vagotomy and by pithing. Replacement of urethane by pentobarbitone virtually abolished the pressor effect of anandamide, both in pithed and vagotomized and in ‘intact’ rats (i.e. not treated in this manner).
The pressor effect of anandamide was reduced by the nonselective TRPV family inhibitor ruthenium red (3 μmol kg−1) and by the blocker of L‐type calcium channels nifedipine (1 μmol kg−1), both in pithed urethane‐anaesthetized rats and in ‘intact’ urethane‐anaesthetized rats. The nonselective β‐adrenoceptor antagonist propranolol (0.1 or 0.3 μmol kg−1) and the nonselective NMDA receptor antagonist MK‐801 (1 μmol kg−1) diminished the anandamide‐induced vasopressor response in ‘intact’ but not in pithed rats. The inhibitory effect of propranolol in ‘intact’ rats was mimicked by the β2‐adrenoceptor antagonist ICI 118551 (1 μmol kg−1), but not by the β1‐adrenoceptor antagonist CGP 20712 (1 μmol kg−1).
The present study revealed that two mechanisms may be responsible for the anandamide‐induced pressor response in urethane‐anaesthetized rats. The first involves the central nervous system (probably the medulla oblongata) and is sensitive to propranolol and MK‐801. The second, which is located peripherally (most probably in blood vessels), is sensitive to nifedipine, ruthenium red and pentobarbitone and, hence, probably represents a Ca2+‐dependent mode of action.

British Journal of Pharmacology (2005) 145, 567–575. doi:10.1038/sj.bjp.0706195
Effect of galantamine on the human α7 neuronal nicotinic acetylcholine receptor, the Torpedo nicotinic acetylcholine receptor and spontaneous cholinergic synaptic activity
Authors: Texidó Laura , Ros Esteve , Martín‐Satué Mireia , López Susana , Aleu Jordi , Marsal Jordi , Solsona Carles 
Published: April 2005

Various types of anticholinesterasic agents have been used to improve the daily activities of Alzheimer's disease patients. It was recently demonstrated that Galantamine, described as a molecule with anticholinesterasic properties, is also an allosteric enhancer of human α4β2 neuronal nicotinic receptor activity. We explored its effect on the human α7 neuronal nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (nAChR) expressed in Xenopus oocytes.
Galantamine, at a concentration of 0.1 μM, increased the amplitude of acetylcholine (ACh)‐induced ion currents in the human α7 nAChR expressed in Xenopus oocytes, but caused inhibition at higher concentrations. The maximum effect of galantamine, an increase of 22% in the amplitude of ACh‐induced currents, was observed at a concentration of 250 μM Ach.
The same enhancing effect was obtained in oocytes transplanted with Torpedo nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (AChR) isolated from the electric organ, but in this case the optimal concentration of galantamine was 1 μM. In this case, the maximum effect of galantamine, an increase of 35% in the amplitude of ACh‐induced currents, occurred at a concentration of 50 μM ACh.
Galantamine affects not only the activity of post‐synaptic receptors but also the activity of nerve terminals. At a concentration of 1 μM, quantal spontaneous events, recorded in a cholinergic synapse, increased their amplitude, an effect which was independent of the anticholinesterasic activity associated with this compound. The anticholinesterasic effect was recorded in preparations treated with a galantamine concentration of 10 μM.
In conclusion, our results show that galantamine enhances human α7 neuronal nicotinic ACh receptor activity. It also enhances muscular AChRs and the size of spontaneous cholinergic synaptic events. However, only a very narrow range of galantamine concentrations can be used for enhancing effects.

British Journal of Pharmacology (2005) 145, 672–678. doi:10.1038/sj.bjp.0706221
Report on the Charleston Conference
Authors: Cassell Kay Ann 
Published: April 2005

PurposeTo report on the annual Charleston Conference, held November 3‐6, 2004 in Charleston, South Carolina.Design/methodology/approachA summary of the main points of the conference.FindingsAddresses questions and topics such as: how useful core book lists can be in 2004; new publishing models; a study of circulation data, ILL requests and WorldCat holdings of University of Colorado monographs; whether there is still funding for electronic full‐text resources in the humanities and fine arts; the usage of print journals in the electronic age; citation data in the sciences regarding books; and the e‐journal project at Drexel.Originality/valueThis report is of interest to library and information management professionals.
A template for shareholder value creation on M&As
Authors: MacDonald Randy 
Published: April 2005

PurposeTo provide a template for creating shareholder value through successful mergers and acquisitions (M&A) practices.Design/methodology/approachTaking as an example the merger between Ameritrade Holding Corporation and Datek Online Holdings Corp. in 2002, this paper provides a template for clearly and transparently communicating with shareholders and potential shareholders the value creation so the company can get credit for its M&A success in its stock price.FindingsOutlining a template can create consistency, discipline and transparency around the creation of shareholder value during M&As.Originality/ValueOther publications have documented reasons why M&As fail including: companies overpaying, the integration failing to overcome cultural conflicts, poor integration processes being used, resource constraints, etc. This article doesn't cover that. This article walks through a simple template for companies to follow when measuring shareholder value creation from a M&A.Originality/valueIt is more than just the fact that most M&As fail to realize the promised value. To be successful, deal makers must have a simple, transparent and disciplined approach to measuring the shareholder value creation. This paper offers guidelines for this approach.
Building surveyors and adjudication: the implications of Hurst Stores v. M L Europe Property Limited (2004)
Authors: Donohoe Stephen 
Published: April 2005

PurposeTo consider the recent decision by the Court of Appeal in the case of Hurst Stores v. M L Europe Property Ltd (2004) and the possible important implications for building surveyors and other construction professionals.Design/methodology/approachA review of literature and case law. Possible developments in this area of law are considered.FindingsA person described as a “project manager” does not necessarily have authority to make legally binding agreements. Where a building surveyor is acting as a project manager, the extent of authority ought to be clarified, preferably in writing. Where a building surveyor is dealing or negotiating with a project manager, he/she cannot take it for granted that any agreement reached will be legally binding. Furthermore, as a consequence of the decision in the Court of Appeal, a document with the heading “Final Account” might not be a final account at all!Research implicationsIncreasingly, building surveyors are involved in adjudication, either as witnesses or as adjudicators. In the latter case, the building surveyor ought to be aware that as a result of this case, the probability of a legal challenge to an adjudicator's decision is greatly increased. Another consequence of cases such as Hurst means that building surveyors are more likely rather than less likely to be involved in adjudication if they are operating in the UK.Originality/valueApplies recent case law to the work of building surveyors.
Creating value for channel partners: the Cervena case
Authors: Beverland Michael 
Published: April 2005

PurposeAims to report on the approach used by the New Zealand Game Industry Board (NZGIB) to create a competitive advantage with channel buyers in the USA. This examination is in response to calls for research on international marketing strategy implementation in business markets. The NZGIB developed an innovative marketing program labeled “Cervena” to reposition commodity venison as an up‐market product sold through specialist restaurants.Design/methodology/approachAn in‐depth case study of the Cervena approach was conducted. Data were gained through in‐depth interviews with key marketing staff. Interviews were supplemented with secondary data.FindingsThe findings identified the synergistic relationships between demand chain partners and end consumers. Tacit competitive advantages were built by adapting to channel requirements, leveraging established relationships, and drawing on aspirational imagery at the consumer level. Critically, no one part of the program could operate in isolation. Implementing such a strategy was difficult because of the failure to convert transactional relationships between farmers and their buyers into long‐term ones that provided greater certainty of supply and pricing. This illustrates both the benefits of networks and the need to adapt the implementation effort over time to ensure ongoing commitment to the relationship, and high quality market‐oriented outcomes.Originality/valueThis article provides a rare glimpse into international strategy implementation in industrial networks and suggests that such success will be contingent on initial strategic choices, adaptability, and supportive policies that reinforce market‐oriented values. Managers need to ensure adaptability within a relationship or network structure in order to consolidate initial competitive advantages and ensure ongoing buyer commitment.
Job‐related stress and social support in kindergarten principals: the case of Macau
Authors: Sai Wong Kwok , Hing Cheuk Wai 
Published: April 2005

PurposeOne objective of the present study was to explore how stressful kindergarten principals, as leaders and managers of their schools, found their work to be, and if such job‐related stress was associated with negative emotions and job (dis)satisfaction. Another objective was to assess whether or not social support from one's supervisor could reduce the adverse effects of job‐related stress. A related objective was to examine possible negative impacts associated with receipt of support from one's supervisor.Design/methodology/approachA total of 44 kindergarten principals in Macau filled out a questionnaire that contained the variables of interest.FindingsThe results indicated that the principals found their work to be moderately stressful; only emotional support was shown to be effective in buffering the impacts of job‐related stress; and there were only weak adverse effects related to the receipt of support.Originality/valueThis paper is useful in understanding the relationship of stress to work in the school environment.
Introduction: toward understanding e‐business transformation
Authors: Gale Jeffrey , Abraham Dolphy 
Published: April 2005

PurposeTo introduce the special issue on organizational transformation and e‐business implementation.Design/methodology/approachProvides a brief review of the papers within the issue.FindingsThe organization transformation brought on by the internet and the adoption of e‐business approaches are fertile ground for continuing work. Virtually, all aspects of the structure and process within the organization are affected.Originality/valueProvides a summary of the perspectives considered within the issue.
The impact of structuring characteristics on the launching of virtual communities of practice
Authors: Dubé Line , Bourhis Anne , Jacob Réal 
Published: April 2005

PurposeDespite the increasing popularity of virtual communities of practice (VCoPs), our understanding of how to intentionally form, develop and sustain them is still at an embryonic stage. Aims to go some way to remedying this.Design/methodology/approachInvestigates the attempt by 14 organizations to implement 18 VCoPs. Using existing documents, detailed logs, and focus groups, a large quantity of qualitative data was gathered, coded, and analyzed.FindingsThe study shows that the environment, the relevance of the VCoP's objectives to its members' daily work, and the degree to which the VCoP is embedded in the organizational structure of an organization are the three structuring characteristics most likely to explain the success or failure of a VCoP at the launching stage.Research limitations/implicationsThe focus is limited to the launching phase; further research should investigate different stages of development.Practical implicationsThe results may offer an indication as to the most important characteristics to consider at the launching stage of a VCoP. Management may want to work at changing the characteristics or take actions to counteract their obstructive effects.Originality/valueThis paper highlights the need for a contingency approach in VCoPs research and practice, and rids one of the misconception, which is pervasive in the extant literature, that all VCoPs are the same and should be managed the same way.
E‐commerce in Hong Kong: an empirical perspective and analysis
Authors: Gunasekaran A. , Ngai E.W.T. 
Published: April 2005

PurposeThe main objective of this study is to develop a framework for: identifying the reasons for using e‐commerce; understanding the implications of e‐commerce in companies; and implementing and applying e‐commerce successfully for improved organizational competitiveness and success.Design/methodology/approachA structured questionnaire was designed, pre‐tested, modified, and used to capture data on e‐commerce in Hong Kong. Based on the feedback from the pilot‐test, the questionnaire was modified and a final questionnaire was developed and mailed to companies in Hong Kong. In the survey, conducted with Hong Kong companies, the perceived benefits and perceived barriers of e‐commerce implementation are discussed.FindingsThe conceptual model based on the analysis of literature and some reported case experiences is developed using the current issues that have been highlighted as important e‐commerce success factors of implementation. The major factors that influence the application and implementation of e‐commerce are: perceived usefulness of web; perceived barriers of the internet for e‐commerce; usage of the internet; and perceived benefits of the internet for e‐commerce. In addition to this, country‐specific factors such as culture, technology competency, government policy, educational level, influence the level of application of e‐commerce.Practical implicationsThe framework is the result of the validation of the theoretical model, together with the conclusions of the empirical analysis conducted in Hong Kong. The empirical analysis supported some of the assumptions of the theoretical model, whereas others were not supported. Based on the feedback received from respondents, the model has been revised to reflect these practical considerations.Originality/valueLittle research has been done to address the perceived benefits and potential barriers to e‐commerce implementation in Hong Kong. This study is a timely and important one in that examines the current status of e‐commerce implementation in Hong Kong. A generic framework is presented with the objective of supporting the application and implementation of the internet for e‐commerce.
Predicting the impact of livestock grazing on birds using foraging height data
Authors: MARTIN TARA G. , POSSINGHAM HUGH P. 
Published: April 2005

Summary

Habitat structure is a major determinant of bird species diversity. One process by which habitat structure is altered is livestock grazing, the most extensive land use across most continents. While the impacts of grazing on vegetation have received much attention, the effects on avifauna are less well known.
Predictions of the impact of grazing on Australian woodland and riparian bird assemblages were formulated. We used available information on the vegetation strata utilized by each species for foraging and the strata most affected by grazing.
We compared predictions based on foraging height preferences with differences in bird density in grassy eucalypt woodland and riparian habitats subject to three levels of grazing. We found that foraging height preference was a good predictor of species’ susceptibility to grazing. Birds exhibited both monotonic and non‐monotonic responses to grazing, with the majority of bird species declining with increasing grazing pressure.
Synthesis and applications. Existing information on foraging behaviour can be used to make predictions of the impact of any threat on birds where that threat alters habitat structure. While the approach is simple, it is a point of departure for more complex predictive models, and avoids the circularity of post hoc interpretation of impact data. This approach can be used to guide management decisions where landscapes are in a state of transition and species conservation is a priority.
Stating mechanisms and refining criteria for ecologically successful river restoration: a comment on Palmer et al. (2005)
Authors: JANSSON R. , BACKX H. , BOULTON A. J. , DIXON M. , DUDGEON D. , HUGHES F. M. R. , NAKAMURA K. , STANLEY E. H. , TOCKNER K. 
Published: April 2005

Summary

To encourage more project assessment and reporting of restoration outcomes, Palmer et al. (2005) propose five criteria for assessing the ecological success of river restoration. They also suggest that these criteria should help to clarify which activities should qualify for ecological restoration funding and facilitate consistency about what constitutes an ecologically successful restoration project.
We critique the five criteria and agree they all merit inclusion in an assessment of successful river restoration. However, the practical application of measuring self‐sustainability (resilience) following restoration is potentially problematic and an explicit timeframe is needed to evaluate the results of the restoration.
A sixth criterion is proposed that encourages specific hypotheses and/or a conceptual model of the ecological mechanisms by which the proposed activities will achieve their target. This would enhance our understanding of the mechanisms at play for successful river restoration, and provide a more powerful deductive framework likely to lead to appropriate practices that can be applied across rivers. To explore the potential practical applicability of these six criteria, we applied them to a recently published example of river restoration to ascertain its ecological success.
Synthesis and applications. We agree with the criteria proposed by Palmer et al. (2005), although the problems of measuring resilience and defining a timeline for recovery should be addressed. We suggest strengthening the deductive framework of restoration projects by formulating some sort of conceptual model. This step could involve scientists, and be a useful way of involving science more explicitly in restoration activities. Agreed‐upon criteria for successful restoration will greatly facilitate evaluation of river ecosystem recovery at the critical broader scales where our knowledge is still limited.