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Purpose Current research on small to medium enterprise (SME) internationalization has generated valuable insight but continues to overlook the activities of business-to-business (B2B) SMEs located in small emerging economies. This study aims to fill this gap by testing the applicability of the ownership, location and internalization (OLI) framework to understand the internationalization strategies of small B2B firms in Trinidad and Tobago, a small emerging Caribbean economy. Design/methodology/approach The study used a qualitative research design, which involved in-depth interviews with senior executives of three firms in the B2B sector who were knowledgeable about their firm’s internationalization process. Thematic analysis was then used to understand the motivations and strategies underpinning the internationalization approach adopted by each firm. Findings Contrary to the stereotype of SMEs in emerging markets as fragile enterprises, there is evidence that firms exploited the development of innovative products and processes to facilitate foreign market entry and expansion. Additionally, firms overcame resource limitations by relying on governmental ties and leveraging networking opportunities. The findings also call attention to the impact of organizational learning and the role of knowledge as a dynamic capability. Originality/value Both the context of the study and the application of the OLI framework contributes to the extant literature by yielding substantive insights into the internationalization strategies of B2B firms in a small emerging economy. The findings further highlight how the OLI framework can be supplemented by other theoretical perspectives to better understand internationalization by emerging market SMEs.

The aims of the study were to examine the presence of extended spectrum βlactamase (ESBL) producing pathogen in urinary tract infected (UTI) patients and their respected molecular characterization and classification. The isolates collected from UTI patients attending a private hospital during the period between January and June, 2012, were biochemically identified and subjected to double disc synergy method for the detection of ESBL. ESBL genes were detected by multiplex PCR and antibiotic sensitivity test was performed. Thirty two percent of all Gram negative isolates were found as ESBL producer. Among 65 ESBL positive isolates, 77% were Escherichia coli, 20% Klebsiella pneumoniae and 3% were Pseudomonas spp. Around 48% isolates were found carrying at least one of the four ESBL genes, bla

Caesarean section (CS) is the most frequently performed major operation in obstetrics. Its frequency is gradually increasing because of extended indications. Now-a-days, caesarean section is also being performed at patient's request in absence of a medical indication. It is necessary to assess the risk and benefits to take a judicious decision to select cases for caesarean section. The cross sectional descriptive type of observational study was carried out among purposively selected 100 pregnant women admitted to the department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology of Community Based Medical College Hospital, Mymensingh, Bangladesh during the period of August 2011 to January 2012 to identify elective and emergency indications of caesarean section, to identify the common complications to identify the risk factors associated with complications and to establish a comparison between complications of elective and emergency caesarean section. The median age group of patients being operated was 20 to 25 years and operation were carried out on patients due to various indications. Principal indications were faetal distress (26%), PROM (15%), failed progress of labour and breech presentation were 8% each, other indications were eclampsia (4%), obstructed labour (5%), scar tenderness (4%), history of previous 2 caesarian section 5%. The rate of elective caesarean section was 21% while emergency operations were done in 79% of cases. Among the 100 patients 19% patients developed complications. Among the complications wound infection was most common (37%), then post partum haemorrhage and urinary tract infection 26% and 11% respectively. Other complications were abdominal distension, Puerperal sepsis, anaemic heart failure, wound dehiscence and Wound haematoma 5% each. We should try to keep the rate of caesarean section within optimum ranges (10%) as recommended by World Health Organization.

Authors attempt to depict a survey of anthropogenic 137Cs and naturally occurring radionuclides (226Ra, 228Th, 232Th, 214Bi, 208TI, 40K) in undistributed soil, water, ship scrapped materials such as metal, rubber and foam and tree bark of ship breaking area, cynoglossids i.e. tongue soles and tea leaves collected from different parts of Bangladesh for detecting health hazards, environmental protection and radiation safety of the public. The assessment of such radionuclides in these samples is utmost important due to nuclear test and accident, fallout and disposal of radioactive wastes. These radiotracers have been investigated by using laboratory-based Gamma Spectrometry for Food and Environmental Samples. The observation of activity concentrations for 137Cs, 226Ra, 228Th,232Th, 214Bi, 208TI and 40K have been presented in Bq.Kg-1. The others radiological parameters such as gamma ray dose rate (nGyh-1), Radium Equivalent Dose (Raeq) Bq.Kg-1, Representative Level Index (lr) Bq.Kg-1 and Transfer Factor (TF) %. The Radiation Hazard Index (Hx) Bq.Kg-1 also has been presented.

A comprehensive study on a laboratory-based Gamma Spectrometry has been presented in this paper for food and environmental samples. The system comprises of HPGe detector with proper cooling for minimizing thermal generation of charge-carriers and appropriate shielding to reduce background emission; associated processing electronics and acquisition as well as analysis software. The choice of HPGe detector for laboratory-based Gamma Spectrometry, its radiation interaction mechanism and system optimization have been presented.

While online shopping expenditures have been increasing in both developed and developing economies, they still account for a small share of total retail sales. Significant differences also exist across countries in the amount of money consumers spend on a per capita basis on online purchases. The authors utilize the conceptual foundations of infrastructural framework to examine the effects of infrastructural drivers on online shopping expenditures in 43 countries. Findings show that per capita telecommunications investments and per capita gross national income are significantly associated with per capita online shopping expenditures. Privacy protection, Internet penetration, and credit card penetration were not significant.

V. cholerae and V. parahaemolyticus are responsible for majority of the Vibrio-related infections world wide. In this observational study, we selected three important river and pondsites of Dhaka city, Bangladesh to observe the presence of pathogenic V. cholerae, and V. parahaemolyticus. Surface water samples were collected from July 2013 to April 2014. Identification of V. cholerae was confirmed by the presence of ompW gene by PCR. Vibrio cholerae was found in the unique dual peak (March to May and September to November) patternin Mirpur-1 Mazar pond and Abdullahpur bridge river site, like many other studies reported earlier in Dhaka with only one exception of finding V. cholerae in the month of July 2013 in Mirpur-1 Mazar pond. A single peak was found from September to November in Mirpur-1 river sites. The ctxB positive non- O1 V. cholerae has also been reported. The presence of ctxB gene was observed by MAMA PCR. The O1 and O139 serogroups were confirmed by O1rfb and O139 rfb genes in PCR. Both classical and El-Tor biotypes were observed in this one year round study. V. paraheamolyticus was confirmed by the presence of ToxRVP gene and all the strains were negative for tdh pathogenic gene by PCR. This study observed for the first time the seasonal pattern of V. parahaemolyticus in water bodies in Bangladesh showing a peak from February to April in all three sampling sites and another additional peak which span from August to September in Mirpur-1 Mazar pond, Dhaka, Bangladesh.

Study of FPGA Based Multi channel Analyzer MCA for Gamma ray and X ray Spectroscopy has been presented in this article. For the systems, FPGA has been chosen as the central pulse processor. And NaI Tl scintillation counter, BF3 or Silicon Drift Detector followed by Voltage Preamplifier VPA or Fast Amplifier, Shaping Amplifier of 150 ns and 450 ns and high resolution ADC 8 12 bit, 50 MHz . Special features for the systems are Pulse Pile up Detection and Rejection, Clipping Pulses and Base line Restoration BLR . The system performance varies from 332 KCPS to 400 KCPS. Energy spectrum in the presence of 137Cs, 60Co, 232Th and broadband X ray beam by different nuclear detectors has been also presented. M. N. Islam | H. Akhter "Study of FPGA Based Multi-Channel Analyzer for Gamma-Ray and X-Ray Spectrometry" Published in International Journal of Trend in Scientific Research and Development (ijtsrd), ISSN: 2456-6470, Volume-3 | Issue-3 , April 2019, URL: https://www.ijtsrd.com/papers/ijtsrd19113.pdf

In this article, authors attempt to describe the refurbishment of a temperature controlled shaking water bath. The instrument has mechanical part and electronic part that consists of temperature controller and shaking circuit. Temperature controller circuit has been designed locally and mechanical part and shaking circuit has been re-installed successfully. The circuit has been designed using IC transducers (590KH) which acts high impedances constant current generator (1µA/0K) temperature range from 00C above ambient +1000C . The instruments have been refurbished for MIID, IFRB, AERE, Savar.

Single Channel Analyzer (SCA) is a most common device used in today's nuclear world. Therefore, A SCA with microcontroller based controlled output has been proposed in this article. The system comprises of Lower Level Discriminator (LLD), Upper Level Discriminator (ULD), wide dynamic range, Fast Processing and Hysteresis. The Comparator LM339N used as the key component that performs the main function of the proposed nuclear module. The multi-turn potentiometers have been used as LLD and ULD for the incoming linear pulses from shaping amplifier. The system has also employ the Hysteresis facilities so that oscillations due to stray feedback are not possible. A lower pin and less housing PIC microcontroller (P16F676) has been used to control the width and time delay of the output pulses.

Stroke is leading cause of death world wide, after coronary artery disease and cancer. A high proportion of patients suffering from an acute stress such as stroke or myocardial infarction may develop hyperglycemia, even in the absence of a preexisting diagnosis of diabetes. An observational comparative study was carried out at the Department of Neurology and Medicine, Mymensingh Medical College, Mymensingh, Bangladesh from July 2011 to June 2013 among purposively selected ninety-three patients with a view to assess the outcome of stress hyperglycemia on acute stroke. Data were collected through interview, physical examinationslaboratory investigations by using case record form. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS (Statistical package for social science) version 17. The mean age of this study was 59.04±15.01 years in the hyperglycemic group and 62.06±13.81 years in the normoglycemic group. The male female ratio in the Hyperglycemic and normoglycemic group was 2.12:1 and 2.44:1 respectively. Smoker was 48.8% in the hyperglycemic group and 52% in the normoglycemic group. 70% of the Hyperglycemic group and 66% of the normoglycemic were found hypertensive. Mean±SD blood glucose level was found 11.86±0.58mmol/L in the Hyperglycemic group and 6.50±1.55mmol/L in the normoglycemic group. Mean HbAlc were 6.14±0.56 in hyperglycemic group and 5.29±0.54 in normoglycemic group. Stroke severity score were 21.79±11.85 in Hyperglycemic and 28.64±9.53 in normoglycemic group on admission. Functional outcome was measured on dischargeat the end of 4th weeks of every patient by Glasgo Outcome Scale (GOS). The study also suggests that stress hyperglycemia is an important risk factor of poor stroke outcome.

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of Internet usage comfort, Internet technical comfort, and demographic variables (gender, age, education, and income) on two key online transactional behaviors: online shopping and online banking. An ordinal regression model was used to test the effects of these variables. Findings show that Internet usage comfort and Internet technical comfort had significant and positive effects on both online shopping and online banking. Among the four demographic variables, only income had a significant and positive effect on online shopping, but both income and age had significant effects on online banking, the former positively and the latter negatively.

Growth response of Spirulina platensis (Nordst) Geitler in cabbage skin extract media and their antibacterial activities were studied. Five different concentrations e.g. 10 , 8 ,6 , 4 and 2 gm/L of cabbage skin extract media and one BD1 (control) medium were used in this experiment. Highest optical density was observed in 10 gm/L cabbage skin extract medium (0.35) followed by BD1 medium (0.30) after fifteen days of culture. Antibacterial activity of S. platensis was studied. Only freeze dried S. platensis powder extracts showed inhibitory effect against tested bacterial pathogen. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjsir.v49i4.22622 Bangladesh J. Sci. Ind. Res. 49(4), 205-210, 2014

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is defined as symptoms or complications associated with regurgitation from the stomach and/or the duodenum to the esophagus. Patients with type II diabetes mellitus (DM) were known to have higher prevalence of GERD in the Western countries, but data on the impact of GERD on DM patients in our country are scarce. The aim of this cross-sectional study was to evaluate the presence of GERD in type II DM patients admitted at the Department of Medicine, Mymensingh Medical College Hospital, Mymensingh, Bangladesh from April 2015 to September 2015. A total of 137 type II DM cases were purposively collected. Reflux Disease Questionnaire (RDQ) was used to check the presence of GERD. Patient's characteristics, laboratory data, face-to-face interview data were analyzed. Out of 137 type 2 DM patients 108 were suffering from GERD giving a prevalence rate of 78.8% which is quite high. Pathophysiological factors like age, sex, duration of DM, weight, waist circumference (WC) had no significant difference between GERD-DM and non-GERD-type II DM patients. Only hypertension and frequent eating fatty food were found to have significant differences between the two groups. From the study findings it could be said that the higher rate of GERD in patients with type II DM may be associated with lifestyle factor and some pathophysiological factors like hypertension. Psychiatric factors may also play role in contributing GERD. Further in-depth and large scale studies are necessary in our country in this regard.

Hyperemesis gravidarum is the most severe form of nausea and vomiting in pregnancy with poor pregnancy outcome. Hormonal changes, psychological and immunological factors are attributed to the condition. Recently, prevalence of Helicobacter pylori among women with Hyperemesis gravidarum has been revealed. A descriptive, cross-sectional study was carried out at antenatal ward, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Mymensingh Medical College Hospital, Mymensingh among thirty-six purposively selected patients with Hyperemesis gravidarum to assess the clinic-biochemical profile. Data were collected through interview, physical examinations and laboratory investigations by using case record form. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS version 20.0 for windows. Highest number 16(44.44%) of respondents were in age group 20 to 24 years with a mean of 23.81±4.55 years. Majority 29(80.56%) of the women had education less than 12 years, as many as 28(77.78%) women were housewives, and at least 14(38.89%) women had unplanned pregnancies. An overwhelming majority 29(80.56%) of women had their pregnancy duration between 8 to 12 weeks. At least 20(55.56%) of women were pregnant for first time, as many as 19(52.78%) women had duration of illness for 5 to 9 weeks, and all the women had remarkable weight loss. Cent per cent women were dehydrated, and appearance of 27(75.00%) women was ill-looking. Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH), total leucocyte count and serum creatinine levels were normal for cent per cent women. As many as 15(41.67%) women had hypokalaemia, while 13(36.11%) had hyponatraemia and 3(8.33%) had hypochloraemia. Patient with Hyperemesis gravidarum often presents with ill-looking appearance, vomiting over 10 times a day, dehydration, remarkable loss of body weight and anaemia. Ketonuria, hyponatraemia, hypokalaemia and hypochloraemia are not associated with severity of illness.

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to explore, using the conceptual frameworks of psychic distance and resource-based view, how Brazilian firms resolve strategic dilemma. Brazilian firms face a strategic dilemma about whether to diversify and exploit the rapidly growing markets of China or to protect and expand the established markets of the Greater Mercosur region. The strategic responses of Brazilian business to business firms are examined within the context of internationalization decisions. Design/methodology/approach – The paper takes a qualitative approach to study the decisions taken by Brazilian firms to deal with the strategic dilemma arising from competitive developments in domestic and regional markets. Findings – Findings support four hypotheses based on the psychic distance and resource-based view frameworks. However, the fifth hypothesis that trust would be an impediment for establishing business in China for Brazilian firms was not supported. Trust did not appear as a concern for Brazilian businesses. Practical implications – Two practical implications can be drawn from the findings. First, Brazilian firms have to consider whether they have made themselves vulnerable to attacks from Chinese firms in the Greater Mercosur region by not aggressively entering the Chinese markets. Second, they also have to understand whether their lack of strong presence in the Chinese markets has resulted not only in lost opportunities but also in making it difficult for them to enter the market later. Originality/value – The paper takes a multi-theoretical approach to provide insights into the international business expansion decisions of firms in a major economy in the Greater Mercosur region. It contributes to the growing literature on firms in emerging economies. By adopting a qualitative approach to study the research questions, the paper provides insights into the behaviors of firms confronting strategic tradeoffs.

Probiotic organisms are live microorganisms thought to be beneficial to the host. To know the effect of probiotic supplemented food on haemato-biochemical parameters in mice, a total of 20 two-month-old Swiss Albino mice were randomly divided into four equal groups. Group A was control, fed commercial mouse pellets, and others were treated with 5 g (group B), 10 g (group C) and 20 g (group D) probiotics (curd), respectively, in mouse pellets for 45 days. Total erythrocyte count and haemoglobin concentration were significantly (P

The aim of the present study was to investigate the current trends of using antimicrobial drugs in the ICU at a tertiary level teaching hospital in Mymensingh. The study of prescribing patterns seeks to monitor, evaluate and suggest modifications in clinicians prescribing habits so as to make medical care rational. It was an observational type of descriptive study, conducted in the Mymensingh medical college hospital, Mymensingh, during the study period of June 2016 to September 2016.The study was approved by the institutional ethical committee. Most patients in the ICU belonged to the older age group60 years. Male patients were more than the female patients in ICU. Average duration of stay in ICU was 4.35 days. Admissions in ICU were common due to respiratory system related diseases and the present study showed that 31.68% of the reported cases belong to the respiratory system. Average number of drugs per prescription was 6.46. Average number of anti-microbial drugs per prescription was 1.38. Cephalosporin group and individually ceftriaxone was the most frequently prescribed antimicrobial group and agent respectively in the ICU. Most commonly used antimicrobial combination was Cephalosporin and Metronidazole (43.33%) followed by Carbapenem (Meropenem) and Metronidazole (13.33%). Most antimicrobial agents were prescribed without bacteriological culture and sensivity testing evidence. There is a need for motivating the physicians to prescribe antimicrobial agents with supportive bacteriological evidences.

Malnutrition is widely prevalent among hospitalized children in most developing countries including Bangladesh. Though malnutrition accounts for the high rate of under 5 mortality sometimes it is overlooked. Keeping in this in mind A comparative cross sectional study was done in Mymensingh Medical College Hospital from 1st October 2009 to 31st May 2011. Children aged 1-5 years with presence of one or more criteria WHM70%, WHZ-score-3SD, Bipedal edemaMid upper arm circumference110mm were taken as study group and children aged 1-5 years with normal growth allowable normal range of variation is between 3rd and 97th centile curve or median (50th centile) ±2SD of weight for age growth chart (CDC growth chart, USA, 2000) were taken as reference group. Persistent diarrhea, Patients taking medications containing zinc, copper, magnesium, phosphoruscalcium, PEM with shock were excluded from study group. Nutritional assessment was done according to WHO criteria of SAM. Serum Zinc, Copper Magnesium and Phosphorus level were determined by Atomic Absorption Spectrometry using UNICAM - AA Spectrometer, model no. 969, Spain. Total 120 study populations were taken. Ninety Out of 120 were taken as a study group (SAM)30 were reference group. In reference group serum Zn, Cu, Mg, P value was 103.80±8.86μg/dl, 135.92±13.57μg/dl, 2.31±0.18mg/dl, 3.96±0.22mg/dl respectively. In study group serum Zn, Cu, Mg, P value was 60.33±11.08μg/dl, 80.60±15.46μg/dl, 1.47±0.22mg/dl, 2.00±0.52mg/dl respectively. All these results show that there is significant difference between study groupreference group. Considering the decreased level of these parameters, close biochemical monitoring and follow up should be emphasized for the children with SAM.

Since the early 1970s. calcium phosphate (Ca-P) index has been regarded as a risk factor for extra skeletal calcification. tumoral calcinosis and increased cardiovascular event and death. The general consensus was not to exceed 70 ing2h1Lt (5.6 unno1/1,2) in chronic kidney disease. The present study was done to find out the Ca - P index in different stages of (CKB) patients to assess the risks of the patients which can be understood and be negotiated. In this study 100 of previously diagnosed chronic kidney disease patients of different stages as CKD stage Ill. IV and stage V were included. Subjects were divided into three groups according to staging of chronic kidney disease : group A (stage 111) were 34 patients, group 8 (Stage IV) were 36 and group C (Stage V) were 30 patients. Mean serum inorganic phosphate level was in group A .5.41 + 2.49. group 8 8.17 + 3.63 and in group C 10.50 + 3.06. Mean serum Calcium level in three groups were in group-A 8.36± 0.74. group- B 8.10± 0.75 and in group- C was 7.43± 1.27 ). Ca - P index was calculated by multiplying the serum calcium and phosphate level. Mean Ca-P index was in group-A 49.39+ 22.95. group B-67.93+ 31.2 and in group-C 90.76+ 24.82. Statistical analysis was done betWeen these groups and it was signifimuly higher in group B than group A ( p< 0.06. group A is group 8). in group C than group A ( p< 0.00. group A vs group C) and in ,group C than group ft ( p< .002. group B vs group C). It was found that as the renal function deteriorates gradually the Ca P index increases and it is highly significantly higher in CKD — V patient than other stages.

The paper tests the influence of adoption time, online time, usage variety, and privacy concern on online spending. Findings support the hypothesis that online time, adoption time, and usage variety, the three dimensions of Internet usage experience, have a positive and significant influence on the amount of money consumers spend online, and privacy concern has a negative and significant influence. The control variables included in the model are gender, age, education, and income. Gender, age, and education did not influence online spending. However, income has a significant effect on online spending. Theoretical and strategic implications and recommendations for future research are presented.

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to apply the structure‐conduct‐performance theory and the strategic fit concept to examine the effects of globalization on markets, strategies, and performance of business‐to‐consumer firms in Brazil.Design/methodology/approachThe paper takes a qualitative approach to answer the research questions. Top decision makers such as president, chief executive officer, chairman of the board, vice president, and director of the companies were interviewed. The elite approach to in‐depth interviewing was followed to obtain reliable information from the decision makers.FindingsFindings indicate that globalization and especially the entry of Chinese firms significantly changed market contexts in Brazil. Brazilian executives responded to changes in market contexts by shifting from production to customer orientation, building brand equity, developing new products, and differentiating offerings. Overall, marketing performance of Brazilian firms was positive, but profitability suffered.Originality/valueThe study contributes to the literature by showing that globalization has changed market contexts in Brazil by developing a new form of competition in which firms from emerging economies are now competing against each other. Findings from this study can provide useful theoretical and strategic insights into the behavior and performance of firms in other emerging markets.

PurposeIs it regionalization or globalization that more accurately depicts the state of the global economy? Exports and foreign direct investments (FDI) data are analyzed with the aim of answering the question and determining how intra‐ and inter‐regional integration has changed over time.Design/methodology/approachTo address the research questions, this paper covers the following. First, it takes a longitudinal perspective in examining the changes taking place in exports and FDI at the regional level. Second, it draws strategic business and marketing implications of this development.FindingsThe results show a trend toward regionalization in the Quad (North America, Western Europe, Asia, and Latin America), especially with respect to exports data.Originality/valueFindings, strategic implications, and directions for future research are presented.

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to examine how the perception of price‐value tradeoff is related to overall satisfaction, purchase intention, word‐of‐mouth advertising, and actual repurchase behavior.Design/methodology/approachData on subscribers and single ticket buyers of a major symphony orchestra in the Midwest are used to test the hypotheses.FindingsThe ANOVA results show significant differences across the three levels of price‐value tradeoff in each of the response variables. Additional analyses of cross‐tabulated data show that some of the bivariate relations conform to, as well as depart from, the rational consumer behavior model.Research limitations/implicationsAlthough the hypotheses are supported, bivariate relations examined in this study can mask or overstate true relations due to the omitted variables bias. Future research can explore reasons for favorable behaviors of consumers whose perception is that the value they receive is overpriced, and also for unfavorable behaviors of consumers whose perception is that the value they received is under‐priced.Practical implicationsThe different niches at the edges provide opportunities for marketers to fine‐tune segmentation and marketing mix strategies. The use of standardized strategies for these niches with different perception and behavior linkages will yield suboptimal results.Originality/valueWhile previous research has mostly focused on price‐quality linkages, this study extends the body of research by examining the perception of price‐value tradeoff and its relation to overall satisfaction, purchase intention, word‐of‐mouth advertising, and actual repurchase behavior. This adds to our understanding of post consumption behavior, showing how consumers respond to the perception of price‐value tradeoff.

This study examines the effocts a/economic globalization on competitive situations oflocalfinns in a small economy, the strategic responses ofthesefinns to the competitive developments, and marketing and financial peiformcmce outcomes of these strategies. Findings indicate both benificial and deleterious ejj(!Cts oj economic globalization un domestic compet­itive situations. Findings also indicate variations in strategic responses andpeifonncmce outcomes oflocalfinns. Implications are presented along with recommendations/or foture research. Keyvvords: Economic Globalization, Strategic Response, Small Island Developing States, Performance F OR FIRMS IN small economies, the phe­nomenon of economic globalization has a significantly different meaning than for firms in the large economies of North America, Western Europe, and Asia. Most of the firms in small economies face a different set of constraints in re­sponding to competitive developments due to their size, location, resource endowments, market size, and managerial expertise. For these finns, as compet­itive pressures continue to increase due to economic globalization, the issues ohmderstanding competitive developments, developing appropriate and effective strategies, and managing performance outcomes have become critically important. Although international business scholars aclmow­ledge the significance of small and mid-sized enter­prises (SMEs) because of the roles they play in an economy, a review of the literature reveals that most of their attention and effort have been devoted to understanding the behavior oflarge firms from large developed economies. Recently, however, in re­sponse to calls for examining SMEs (Aulakh et al., 2000; Ramirez-Aleson and Espitia-Escuer, 2001), scholarly attention has shifted to llllderstanding strategic actions and performance outcomes ofSMEs (Chiao et al., 2006; Baird et al., 1994). While there now exists a growing body of research on SMEs from developed and developing economies, there still remains a group of SMEs that has not received much attention. These are the SMEs from very small econOITlles. The focus of existing studies on large developed and developing economies is llllderstandable, given that firms from these economies have played a signi-ficant role in promoting and shaping global trade and investments. However, most ofthe economies in the world are neither large nor developed. Global data indicates that, except for the few developed and de­veloping economies, most of the economies in the world are small economies. And, among these small economies, measured by gross domestic product (GDP), some are considerably small, with GDP less than the annual revenue of a mid-sized company in a large developed economy such as the U. S. or Japan. For example, in the Caribbean, a majority of the is­land economies have G DP less than $5 billion (see Table I). Firms in these very small island economies face two major issues related to economic globalization. First, they lack financial and managerial resources to compete with corporations from large developed or developing economies. Second, they operate in a market whose size does not yield opportunities to exploit either economies of scale or scope. For these finns, thus, the concern is more pressing and imme­diate: How to survive when competitive pressure keeps mOllllting due to economic globalization. As such, this paper focuses on three substantive ques­tions: How has economic globalization affected the competitive environment for local firms in a small economy, how have local finns in this small economy responded to competitive threats coming from eco­nomic globalization, and what happened to their marketing and financial performance as a result of the strategies they implemented? This paper attempts to answer these questions with respect to Barbados, a small island Caribbean economy.

Purpose – The goals of the paper are to propose, measure, and empirically test the expectations model of economic nationalism. The model posits that economic nationalism is reflected in people's expectations of their government, domestic firms, and the general public, in terms of restricting the activities of foreign firms.Design/methodology/approach – A confirmatory factor analysis is conducted to test the model, using the LISREL procedure.Findings – Results show acceptable fit for the proposed model. Reliability of each of the three dimensions of economic nationalism is in the acceptable range. A nomological validity test showed that economic nationalism is related to other constructs not included in the model.Research limitations/implications – A limitation of the model is that it is based on a single sample. Future studies can test the generalizability of model with samples from different countries.Practical implications – The implication of the study is that increasing globalization might lead to an ...

Purpose – The choice of an international market entry mode involves two critical considerations, leveraging internal competencies and managing environmental uncertainties in host countries. The purpose of the paper is to explicate how these two considerations affect the propensity to collaborate in international markets.Design/methodology/approach – The paper builds on existing theories and develops hypotheses showing relations between competencies and uncertainty and collaboration in international markets.Findings – Conceptual relations show that the goals of leveraging competencies and managing environmental uncertainty in host countries have varying effects on the level of international collaboration.Originality/value – The effects are shown through the integration of different theories and empirical findings. Furthermore, the significance of collaboration in international market entry decisions is established. Directions for future research are also provided.

This paper examines the effect of economic globalization on human development and argues that the relation between economic globalization and human development is mediated by economic freedom and corruption. Findings suggest that economic globalization affects economic freedom positively and corruption negatively. In turn, economic freedom has a positive effect and corruption has a negative effect on human development. All relations are in the hypothesized directions and significant. Research, business, and public policy implications as well as directions for future research are presented.

Generation Xers in Japan continue to draw increasing attention not only because they constitute a promising segment for many products and services but also because they are expected to play a critical role in shaping their country’s political and economic relations with other countries. This paper examines their attitudes toward US products, businesses, and government. It also examines their behavioral intentions and their expectations of their government in terms of managing American business involvement in Japan. Findings and implications are presented.

The author examines the issue of digital divide from a demographic perspective. The influence of gender, age, education, and income on the likelihood to purchase over the Internet is empirically examined. Hypotheses are framed in the context of psychological correlates of the demographic variables. Findings show that these variables significantly influence the likelihood to purchase over the Internet and can be used to profile, segment, and target markets and develop public policies to bridge the digital divide.

Objectives: The purpose of this study was to measure and to describe obstetric deaths in Bangladesh. Methods: We reviewed hospital records and interviewed health workers in clinic sites and field workers who cared for pregnant women. Results: We obtained case reports of 28 998 deaths of women aged 10–50, of which 8562 (29.5%) were maternal deaths. Most (7086, 82.8%) of these deaths were due to obstetric causes. The most common causes of direct obstetric death were eclampsia (34.3%), hemorrhage (27.9%), and obstructed and/or prolonged labor (11.3%). National direct obstetric death rate was estimated to be 16.9 per 100 000 women. Conclusions: Efforts to reduce fertility in Bangladesh have led to an estimated 49% reduction in the maternal mortality rate per 1000 women during the past 18 years. Variations in maternal mortality suggest the need to develop local strategies to improve obstetric care.

We developed a colour tint scale to use as an aid in the clinical assessment of anaemia by measuring conjunctival pallor. The objectives of this study were to evaluate the accuracy and agreement among observers in detecting anaemia in three sequential phases with incremental information using clinical pallor of different anatomical sites, subsequently adding subjects' medical history for physical symptoms and the colour scale. After training in the application of these three sequential assessments, 12 primary health workers were assigned to independently examine 198 anaemic and 254 non-anaemic pregnant women while blind to the true anaemic status. Their assessments in each phase were then compared with the anaemic status based on haemoglobin level, measured using HemoCue, taken as the gold standard, to determine sensitivity and specificity, and agreements among observers in detecting anaemia were calculated. In the three sequential phases of assessment the sensitivities were 73.8, 78.3, 82.9% and specificities 76.0, 84.7 and 90.9%, respectively. In each subsequent step, the improvements in both the sensitivity and specificity were statistically significant [P(chi2(McNemar)) < 0.01]. Kappa statistics for agreement among 12 observers for assessing anaemia in the sequential phases were 0.50, 0.71 and 0.82, respectively. The Spearman rank correlation coefficient between haemoglobin level and the colour scale reading was 0.68 (P < 0.001). Taking medical history and incorporating a simple colour tint scale with examination of pallor improved the sensitivity, specificity and agreement for detection of anaemia by health workers.

Summary Background Few studies have examined injury-related deaths among women in Bangladesh. We did a case-finding study to identify causes and the impact of intentional and unintentional injury-related deaths among women aged 10–50 years in Bangladesh. Methods Between 1996 and 1997, health care and other service providers at 4751 health facilities throughout Bangladesh were interviewed about their knowledge of deaths among women aged 10–50 years. In addition, at all public facilities providing inpatient service, medical records of women who died during the study period were reviewed. The reported circumstances surrounding each death were carefully reviewed to attribute the most likely cause of death. Findings 28 998 deaths among women aged 10–50 years were identified in our study, and, of these, 6610 (23%) were thought to be caused by intentional or unintentional injuries. About half (3317) of the injury deaths were attributable to suicide, 352 (5%) to homicide, 1100 (17%) to accidental injuries, and the intent was unknown for 1841 (28%) deaths. The unadjusted rate of suicides were higher in the Khulna administrative division (27·0 per 100 000) than the other four administrative divisions of Bangladesh (range 3·5–11·3 per 100 000). Poisoning (n=3971) was the commonest cause of injury-related death—60% of all injury deaths (6610) and 14% of all deaths (28 998). Other common causes of injury deaths in order of frequency were hanging or suffocation, road traffic accidents, burns, drowning, physical assault, firearm or sharp instrument injury, and snake or animal bite. Interpretation Intentional and unintentional injuries are a major cause of death among women aged 10–50 years in Bangladesh. Strategies to reduce injury-related deaths among women need to be devised.

Objective Preeclampsia (PreE) is one of considerable public health threat particularly in developing countries globally affecting approximately 8% of all pregnancies. PreE is a pregnancy-specific condition that increases maternal and infant mortality and morbidity, but the etiology remains unknown. Despite numerous basic, clinical, and epidemiologic studies that have been conducted over the past half century, knowledge of the etiology and pathogenesis of preeclampsia remains elusive. It is diagnosed by new onset increased blood pressure and proteinuria during second or third trimester of gestation; key features of the preeclampsia category include a cut-off blood pressure of 140/90 mm Hg or higher and absolute requirement of proteinuria. Approximately 20% of the diabetic pregnant women develop preE. The mechanisms contributing to this effect is not well characterized. In a recent study, we have shown that hyperglycemia impairs cytotrophoblast (CTB) function via stress signaling. Several researchers demonstrate a direct link between preE and diabetes. The objective of the study was to evaluate potential linkage between the risk of developing preE and the presence of diabetes in pregnant patients in Bangladesh. Methods This is a cross-sectional study of 351 pregnant women performed to evaluate the prevalence of PreE with respect to different risk factors such as previous pregnancy, presence of Antiphospholipid antibodies, pre-existing diabetes (before this pregnancy), multiple gestation / singleton, family history of preE in first degree relative (mother, sister and daughters; most commonly mother), maternal age of 40 or greater. The study was conducted in selected hospitals of Dhaka city, Bangladesh during December 2013 to December 2015. Results The key study findings revealed that the overall rate of development of PreE in Bangladeshi pre-gestational diabetic patients is 22.6 percent. We gave special emphasis on the occurrence of PreE in pre-gestational diabetic patients. Among 351 respondents, 145 Patients (25.5%) with either DM prior to pregnancy or developing gestational diabetes or without diabetes were older (age >35 years) pregnant women (13.1%). Prevalence of PreE is 25.5 (n=145) and 19.6 (n=199) percent among those who developed pre-gestational diabetes and without diabetes prior to pregnancy. Of the respondents 17.2 percent have both systolic and diastolic hypertension those who developed DM prior to this pregnancy and 13 percent among those who does not developed DM prior to this pregnancy. Occurrence of abortion was up to 3 percentage before this pregnancy 45 percentage who developed DM prior to this pregnancy and 35 percent who does not have diabetes among the respondents. Conclusions There is an association has been found between the risk of developing preE and the presence of diabetes in pregnant patients in Bangladesh.

Striking the right balance of adaptation of the international catalog mix may be the key to profitability. U.S. catalog firms, new to international markets, have less experience in adapting than firms in more globalized industries. The literature on international marketing strategy adaptation reveals that this decision depends on the environment, industry, market, product, and characteristics of the firm. This paper examines the influence of market similarity, type of business and the firm's international experience on international catalog adaptation, and explores the effects of catalog adaptation on a firm's performance. We hypothesize that the greater the market similarity, the less likely it is that firms will adjust their catalog. We also argue than adaptation is greater for consumer catalogs than for business-to-business catalogs. A third hypothesis is that more internationally experienced firms will adapt more and a final hypothesis is that a greater degree of adaptation will increase the ...

SUMMARY The trend towards internationalizing the business curriculum is undoubtedly one of the most significant developments in academia. Recognizing the importance of imbuing students with a global perspective, business schools, one after the other, are either developing new courses with an international focus or incorporating international materials in existing courses. As the internationalization process continues, pedagogical concerns such as course content, teaching approach, student evaluation, and course improvement are at the center Stage.

Within the context of recent technological, economic, political, and social developments, this article covers the following: market entry strategies and international direct marketing, export value chain and transaction cost analysis for judging the effectiveness of international direct marketing, the drivers encouraging the growth of international direct marketing, and the Triad and international direct marketing.