Location Of Branches Research Articles

Plexin A3 and Turnout Regulate Motor Axonal Branch Morphogenesis in Zebrafish

During embryogenesis motor axons navigate to their target muscles, where individual motor axons develop complex branch morphologies. The mechanisms that control axonal branching morphogenesis have been studied intensively, yet it still remains unclear when branches begin to form or how branch locations are determined. Live cell imaging of individual zebrafish motor axons reveals that the first axonal branches are generated at the ventral extent of the myotome via bifurcation of the growth cone. Subsequent branches are generated by collateral branching restricted to their synaptic target field along the distal portion of the axon. This precisely timed and spatially restricted branching process is disrupted in turnout mutants we identified in a forward genetic screen. Molecular genetic mapping positioned the turnout mutation within a 300 kb region encompassing eight annotated genes, however sequence analysis of all eight open reading frames failed to unambiguously identify the turnout mutation. Chimeric analysis and single cell labeling reveal that turnout function is required cell non-autonomously for intraspinal motor axon guidance and peripheral branch formation. turnout mutant motor axons form the first branch on time via growth cone bifurcation, but unlike wild-type they form collateral branches precociously, when the growth cone is still navigating towards the ventral myotome. These precocious collateral branches emerge along the proximal region of the axon shaft typically devoid of branches, and they develop into stable, permanent branches. Furthermore, we find that null mutants of the guidance receptor plexin A3 display identical motor axon branching defects, and time lapse analysis reveals that precocious branch formation in turnout and plexin A3 mutants is due to increased stability of otherwise short-lived axonal protrusions. Thus, plexin A3 dependent intrinsic and turnout dependent extrinsic mechanisms suppress collateral branch morphogenesis by destabilizing membrane protrusions before the growth cone completes navigation into the synaptic target field.

The effects of oviposition site on the development of the wood borer Coraebus florentinus (Coleoptera: Buprestidae)

Coraebus florentinus (Herbst) is one of the most important wood borer pests of oaks in forest ecosystems in the Mediterranean Region. It is considered to be a heliophilous species as it prefers the sunniest parts of the canopy of isolated trees. The biological significance of this preference is still unknown. Recently, the effect of temperature on the preimaginal development of this insect was established: high temperatures increase its probability of survival and shorten its developmental time. Continuing this line of research, this study was designed to determine whether C. florentinus exhibits selective oviposition behaviour and how variation in temperature due to differences in the position of the branches in which the larvae develop could affect the subsequent development of this species. To determine whether this insect selects the branches in which to lay its eggs, location data (north, south, upper half and lower half of the tops of the trees) for 112 damaged branches were analysed. The results confirm that females of C. florentinus do not lay their eggs at random at the tops of trees but rather choose branches that are exposed to the sun. To determine the effects of larval rearing temperature on the later development stages, an experiment consisting of five treatments was performed. Four of these treatments, each containing 25 infested branches derived from different orientations and positions in a tree (upper half of tree and north facing, upper half and south facing, lower half and north facing and lower half and south facing) were kept in culture chambers maintained at optimal conditions for pupal development (28 ± 2°C and 60-65% relative humidity). The fifth treatment with 25 branches infested collected from the most sun-exposed locations were kept in outdoor conditions. The results indicate that variation in temperature during larval development due to differences in branch location does not significantly affect survival, duration of developmental of pupae, emergence success or sex ratio of the adults.

Six-month and one-year clinical outcomes after placement of a dedicated coronary bifurcation stent: a patient-level pooled analysis of eight registry studies

Smaller studies have previously shown promising results after Tryton Side Branch Stent™ (Tryton Medical, Durham, NC, USA) placement. However, these previous studies were limited by their small sample size and relatively short follow-up. We performed a patient-level pooled analysis to evaluate six-month and one year clinical outcomes of more than 900 patients who were enrolled in eight registries with the Tryton stent. Data from eight Tryton registries, including 905 patients with 929 bifurcation lesions, were pooled on a patient level to form one dataset. The primary outcome was six-month target vessel failure (TVF), defined as the composite of cardiac death, any myocardial infarction, and clinically indicated target vessel revascularisation. Procedural success was defined as successful stent placement and no in-hospital major adverse cardiac events. Multivariable analysis was performed to determine independent predictors for one-year TVF. Follow-up data were available in 97%. Procedural success was 95% and TVF rate was 6.5% at six months and 8.5% at one year. Stent thrombosis occurred in 0.5% of patients. Left main coronary artery bifurcation lesion (HR 6.46) and main branch reference vessel diameter <3.0 mm (HR 2.62) were independent predictors for TVF. In the real world setting of registries including more than 900 patients, the use of the Tryton stent is associated with procedural and mid-term clinical results that compare very favourably with historical studies. The primary endpoint of TVF was primarily determined by reference vessel diameter of the main branch and left main bifurcation lesion location.

NG2+ Oligodendrocyte Precursor Cells (OPCs) take part in neurovascular unit remodelling during EAE

NG2+ Oligodendrocyte Precursor Cells (OPCs) are an abundant glial population in mammalian adult Central Nervous System (CNS) committed to oligodendrocyte differentiation and myelin repair (1). Our previous studies in a model of murine Experimental Autoimmune Encephalomyelitis (EAE) revealed demyelination of cerebral cortex subpial areas together with an increased number of OPCs and Blood-Brain Barrier (BBB) breakdown (2,3). The observation of several EAE activated OPCs in tight contact with EAE cortex microvessels prompt us to further analyse the nature of this association and ascertain if during EAE, OPCs establish a privileged relationship with BBB microvessels. Laser confocal microscopy and morphometric analyses were applied to immunohistochemically revealed cell- (OPCs, endothelial cells, pericytes, astrocytes) and vascular basement membrane- (collagen type IV and VI) specific antigens. The main vessel/OPC assessed parameters were OPC vascular coverage (OPC number/vessel length) and raw integrated density (OPC area x mean gray value)/vessel density which were calculated in brains from both healthy control and EAE affected mice. The results confirmed the increased number of EAE OPCs, their enhanced branching and frequent perivascular location. Compared with healthy mice, in EAE the OPC coverage and the integrated density, as well as the evaluated minimal vascular OPC distance were significantly increased. These data suggest that in EAE, OPCs assume a critical position with respect to the vessel wall, remaining distinct from GFAP+ astrocytes, as an additional cell component of the neurovascular unit. In this position, the increased vascular subset of EAE NG2+ OPCs may interfere with neurovascular unit cell-cell signalling in turn affecting BBB regulation and maintenance.

RESPONSE OF GIZA 90 COTTON CULTIVAR TO SOWING DATES AND FIRST IRRIGATION( AL-MOHAYAT) TIME

Two field experiments were carried out at Shandweel Agricultural Research Station in 2009 and 2010 seasons to study the effect of sowing dates and first irrigation( Al-Mohayat) on growth, earliness, seed cotton yield and its components of Giza 90 (Gossypium barbadense L.). A split-plot design with four replications was used. The main plots were assigned to sowing dates (March 25, April 10 and April 25). Al-Mohayat irrigation time i.e., two, three and four weeks after sowing were assigned in the sub-plots. The results indicated that early sowing (March 25) significantly increased days to first flower, days to first open boll, number of open bolls/plant, seed cotton yield per plant and per feddan in both seasons. While, plant height at harvest and location of first fruiting node branch were decreased. Meanwhile, number of fruiting branches/plant, boll weight and number of plants at harvest/feddan were not significantly affected by sowing dates in both seasons. Delaying Al-Mohayat irrigation to four weeks after sowing significantly increased plant height at harvest, location of first fruiting node branch and days to first open boll in both seasons. While,delaying Al-Mohayat irrigation to three weeks after sowing significantly increased number of open bolls/plant, seed cotton yield per plant and per feddan in both seasons. Meanwhile, number of fruiting branches/plant, days to first flower, boll weight and number of plants at harvest/feddan were not significantly affected by Al-Mohayat irrigation.The interaction between sowing dates and Al-Mohayat irrigation had a significant effect on plant height at harvest, boll weight, number of open bolls/plant, seed cotton yield per plant and per feddan in both seasons. While, number of fruiting branches/plant, days to first open boll and number of plants at harvest/feddan were not affected in both seasons. Generally, best results were obtained when cotton plants were sown early (25 March) and Al-Mohayat irrigation (three weeks).

Localization of the Medial Branches of the Cervical Dorsal Rami During Cervical Laminoplasty

Observational anatomic study. To give precise information on the surgical anatomy of the medial branches of the cervical dorsal rami. The anatomy of the medial branches has not been sufficiently described. We recorded the location of the medial branches in 94 consecutive patients who underwent laminoplasty for cervical compression myelopathy. A posterior cervical approach was made along the edge of the nuchal ligament, and, after carefully detaching the trapezius muscle from the nuchal ligament; we identified the right-side branches around the semispinalis capitis muscle. We recorded the location of the branches with reference to the spinous processes and the semispinalis capitis and trapezius muscles. In 52 patients, we electrically stimulated the branches and observed the contraction of these muscles. Branches were identified between C3 and C6 spinous process levels in 92 patients. A single branch was identified in 56 patients, 2 branches were identified in 35 patients, and 3 branches were identified in the remaining 1 patient. Branches were located between C3 and C4 (n = 12), between C4 and C5 (n = 80), between C5 and C6 (n = 2), and at C6 (n = 35). There were 4 patterns of final course: 52 branches passed through the medial side of the semispinalis capitis and trapezius muscles and terminated in a subcutaneous area; 50 branches penetrated the semispinalis capitis and trapezius muscles and terminated in a subcutaneous area; 12 branches terminated in the semispinalis capitis muscle; and 15 branches penetrated the semispinalis capitis and terminated at the nuchal ligament. In 19 of 52 patients tested, the semispinalis capitis muscle contracted after electrical stimulation. Medial branches of the cervical dorsal rami were discernible in cervical posterior approach laminoplasty and were frequently found adjacent to C4 and C5 spinous processes. The medial branches sometimes supplied motor fibers to the semispinalis capitis muscle. Knowledge of the course of these branches might be helpful for avoiding injury during laminoplasty.

New surgical algorithm for femoral head split fractures with anatomical study

BackgroundThe femoral head split fracture line is usually located in the anterior–inferior portion of the head. Proper fixation is difficult using the conventional approach without tenotomy, and thus, the authors sought to devise an effective, safe, fixation approach for the most common type of head fracture. MethodsAnatomical dissection of 80 femoral triangles was performed. The authors evaluated the locations of femoral nerves, vessels, and branches within femoral triangles. On the basis of these observations we used a new anterior approach via the non-dangerous lateral space of the femoral triangle. This approach was applied to 12 femoral head split fractures treated from 2002 to 2009. ResultsA safe area was found within the femoral triangle at the proximal 17.5–32.5 % of the full length of the rectus femoris. In Brumback type 1A and 2A cases, screws were inserted at right angles relative to the fracture plane through the space. ConclusionsThis study contributes by providing a new technique for femoral head split fractures. This anterior approach using the lateral aspect of femoral triangle provided excellent and good results for Brumback type 1A and 2A femoral head split fractures. On the basis of this study, we produced new treatment algorithm for femoral head split fracture.

Nutlet micro‐morphology of the genus Microula (Boraginaceae) from the Qinghai–Tibetan Plateau, and its systematic implications

The micro‐morphology of nutlets in 30 taxa (28 species and 2 varieties) of Microula Benth. (Boraginaceae) was surveyed by light and scanning electron microscopy. A principal coordinate‐based ordination analysis (PCO) (8 morphological and 14 micro‐morphological characters) was applied to explore whether taxa clustered according to the current sectional taxonomy. The nutlet epidermis showed three major features: trichomes, papillae and lamellae. Two basic trichome types could be identified: branched and unbranched. Stellate trichomes (STT) and stipitate stellate trichomes (SST) can be considered as two subtypes of branched trichomes based on shape and branching location. Three kinds of unbranched trichomes were recognized by their shapes: slender trichomes (SLT), spear‐like trichomes (SPT) and conical trichomes (CT). Four types of papillae were revealed in this genus: central apiculate papillae (CAP), debris‐covered convex papillae (DCP), rugous papillae (RP) and tabular papillae (TP). The lamellae was classified in five types: glossy lamellae (GL), thread‐like lamellae (TL), rugous lamellae (RL), interrupted lamellae (IL) and debris‐covered lamellae (DCL). The variation in the nature of surface sculpturing, nutlet shape and size, dorsal aperture shape, and attachment scar positions proved useful diagnostic characters. Taxa belonging to the same section generally clustered together in the PCO analysis. A key based on the morphology and micro‐morphology of nutlets is provided to distinguish the sections of Microula. The presence of SLT, STT, DCP and DCL is consistent with the macro‐morphological classification and provides additional evidence for the subgeneric delimitations. The SST, SLT, CAP, DCP, RP, DCL, GL and RL are useful in discriminating species in Microula. Additionally, the distribution of some trichomes, papillae and lamellae types is correlated with the altitudinal distribution of the species.

Minimally Invasive Basilic Vein Harvest for Arteriovenous Fistula Transposition using a Laryngoscope

The standard lengthy surgical incision used for basilic vein arteriovenous fistula (AVF) transposition is associated with significant discomfort, scarring and risk of wound complications. Minimally invasive vein dissection using a laryngoscope is an inexpensive alternative which has been successfully used for saphenous vein harvesting and which we have applied to the basilic vein for laryngoscopic-assisted AVF transposition (L-AVF/T). During this technique, the basilic vein is mobilized through two small incisions, one in the axilla and the second just proximal to the cubital fossa. Ultrasound examination is used to map the location of the largest distal venous branch, either the forearm basilic vein or the median cubital vein. An important element of exposure is incising the superficial investing fascia longitudinally over the vein, allowing the working space to expand. L-AVF/Ts were constructed in 47 patients during a 20 month time period. Mean age was 62 (18-87) years. Twenty-five (53%) patients were women, sixteen (34%) were obese and twenty-eight (60%) were diabetic. All veins were successfully harvested and there were no neurologic injuries. Primary and cumulative patency rates were 80% and 92%, respectively, at one year with follow-up ranging between 1-20 months (mean = 4 months). Minimally invasive dissection of the basilic vein for vascular access transposition using laryngoscopic assistance is safe, reliable and cost efficient with good short-term patency and functional outcomes.

Dynamics of retail-bank branching in Antwerp (Belgium) 1991–2006: Evidence from micro-geographic data

We exploit a comprehensive new panel dataset on retailbank branch locations in 233 neighborhoods (local markets) in the metropolitan area of Antwerp to describe (i) how between 1991 and 2006 the patterns of bank presence, entry, exit and choice deeply evolve and (ii) whether and how changes in these “on the ground” patterns systematically diverge across Antwerp’s different, highly segregated neighborhoods. We show that over the 15-year period under study entry and exit dynamics substantially intensify, the level change in branch desert grows significantly, and bank choice markedly declines; and that between 1996 and 2001, these changes are robustly associated with the neighborhood average income. In doing so, we advance a new technique for generating spatial measures that both minimize the discretization bias and can be reliably linked to neighborhoods. We demonstrate that the resulting measures are indeed more precise than traditional count measures.

Location of the Mandibular Branch of the Facial Nerve According to the Neck Position

The aim of this study was to elucidate the exact location of the mandibular branch of the facial nerve according to different neck positions. Twenty-two hemifaces of 11 fresh human cadavers were used (age range, 53-89 y; mean age, 72.3 ± 10.5 y; 8 men and 3 women). Working through skin windows, the distance from the mandibular border to the mandibular branch of the facial nerve (border-nerve distance or BND) was measured at 3 points: (1) the mandible angle (gonion or Go point), (2) the point where the mandibular branch of the facial nerve crosses the facial artery (FA point), and (3) the one-fourth point from the gonion to the menton (1/4 point). Threads were hung on the skin windows along the mandibular border. With the neck in the neutral position and then full flexion (15 degrees), extension (15 degrees), and left and right rotations (30 degrees), the distance of the mandibular branch from the thread of the mandibular border was measured using calipers. In the neutral position, the mandibular branch was 3.50 ± 2.82 mm above the mandibular border at the Go point, 5.34 ± 2.98 mm above the mandibular border at the FA point, and 5.28 ± 1.86 mm above the mandibular border at the 1/4 point. At all 3 points, flexion or extension of the neck did not significantly move the mandibular branch. At the Go point and FA point, there was no significant difference between the ipsilateral rotation position and the contralateral rotation. Yet at the 1/4 point, the BND decreased (4.32 ± 2.60 mm) with the neck in ipsilateral rotation and the BND increased (5.97 ± 2.62 mm) with the neck in contralateral rotation. There was a significant difference between the ipsilateral rotation position and the contralateral rotation position (P = 0.020, t-test). Surgeons should keep in mind that at the 1/4 point, the mandibular branch of the facial nerve moves downward 1.10 ± 1.42 mm with the neck in ipsilateral rotation and moves upward 0.49 ± 1.84 mm with the neck in contralateral rotation.

Patterns of shoot architecture in locally adapted populations are linked to intraspecific differences in gene regulation

• Shoot architecture, including the number and location of branches, is a crucial aspect of plant function, morphological diversification, life history evolution and crop domestication. • Genes controlling shoot architecture are well characterized in, and largely conserved across, model flowering plant species. The role of these genes in the evolution of morphological diversity in natural populations, however, has not been explored. • We identify axillary meristem outgrowth as a primary driver of divergent branch number and life histories in two locally adapted populations of the monkeyflower, Mimulus guttatus. • Furthermore, we show that MORE AXILLARY GROWTH (MAX) gene expression strongly correlates with natural variation in branch outgrowth in this species, linking modification of the MAX-dependent pathway to the evolutionary diversification of shoot architecture.

Two Deafness-causing (DFNA20/26) Actin Mutations Affect Arp2/3-dependent Actin Regulation

Hearing requires proper function of the auditory hair cell, which is critically dependent upon its actin-based cytoskeletal structure. Currently, ten point mutations in nonmuscle γ-actin have been identified as causing progressive autosomal dominant nonsyndromic hearing loss (DFNA20/26), highlighting these ten residues as functionally important to actin structure and/or regulation. Two of the mutations, K118M and K118N, are located near the putative binding site for the ubiquitously expressed Arp2/3 complex. We therefore hypothesized that these mutations may affect Arp2/3-dependent regulation of the actin cytoskeleton. Using in vitro bulk polymerization assays, we show that the Lys-118 mutations notably reduce actin + Arp2/3 polymerization rates compared with WT. Further in vitro analysis of the K118M mutant using TIRF microscopy indicates the actual number of branches formed per filament is reduced compared with WT and, surprisingly, branch location is altered such that the majority of K118M branches form near the pointed end of the filament. These results highlight a previously unknown role for the Lys-118 residue in the actin-Arp2/3 interaction and also further suggest that Lys-118 may play a more significant role in intra- and intermonomer interactions than was initially hypothesized.

Is Doppler ultrasonography essential for hemorrhoidal artery ligation?

Doppler ultrasonography enables accurate identification of the terminal branches of the superior rectal artery prior to hemorrhoidal artery ligation (HAL). However, since the positions of these branches have been found to be relatively constant, the question arises as to the necessity of ultrasonography for their identification. The aim of the current study was to examine the positions of all arteries identified and ligated during the HAL procedure. We recorded the position of all arteries located and ligated in 135 consecutive patients who underwent the HAL procedure during the years 2003 to 2006. In all patients, 6-8 terminal arterial branches were located above the dentate line. In 102 (76 %) patients, terminal branches were located in all 6 of the odd-numbered clock positions around the anus (1, 3, 5, 7, 9, and 11 o'clock in the lithotomy position). If we had ligated arteries only at these odd-numbered clock positions, without using Doppler ultrasonography, we would have located all the arteries in 96 (71 %) of our patients. The number and location of arterial branches of the superior rectal artery are relatively constant. Nevertheless, if, Doppler ultrasonography had not been performed and, ligation in the HAL procedure had been at the odd-numbered clock positions only, then at least one artery would have been missed in 29 % of our patients.

Bifid median nerve variations: A cadaveric study

Bifid median nerve (BMN) is an anatomical variation that occurs when the main median nerve trunk splits into medial and lateral trunks prior to entering the hand within the carpal tunnel (CT). The classification of BMN can be further divided into subcategories, which are based on associated abnormalities and location of branching. In this study, the upper extremities of twenty‐nine cadaveric specimens were examined for the presence of BMN in the flexor forearm and hand regions (14 females, 15 males). Of the 58 upper extremities examined, 6 exhibited BMN patterns (10.3%; 4 female, 2 male), with both trunks traveling within the CT into the hand. Two distinct bifid branching patterns were also observed: (B1) mid‐forearm, proximal to carpal tunnel (n=2 females) and (B2) wrist level, within CT (n=2 females, 2 males). In both B1 cases, the smaller medial trunk pierced the flexor digitorum superficialis muscle, traveled within the CT with the larger lateral trunk, and gave off communicating branches to both the lateral trunk and superficial branch of the ulnar nerve after entering the left hand. Incidence of BMN was found to be higher in female cadavers (67%), and in left upper extremities (67%). Knowledge of variable median nerve branching patterns, especially as it is associated with the CT, is important for diagnostic and surgical interventions.Grant Funding Source: n/a

Satisfaction Domains of Rural Bank Clients: A Path Analysis

The purpose of this study was to generate a causal model on satisfaction among rural bank clients in Northern Mindanao Region. Four hundred thirty eight clients from 49 rural banks operating in Region X were involved in the study. The rural bank clients were mostly female, aged 40 and below, married, college level, with an average monthly income of 10,000 pesos and self-employed. The selection dimension which is the independent or endogenous variable has the following indicators: people influences, attractiveness, service provision, ATM service, branch location, proximity, secure feeling, marketing promotion and financial benefits. The indicators of client satisfaction, as the dependent or endogenous variable of the study are tangibles, reliability, responsiveness, assurance and empathy. From these variables, five hypothesized models of client satisfaction were crafted. Using path analysis, Model 5 emerged as the most parsimonious model suggesting that satisfaction among rural bank clients was anchored on selection dimensions and income which in turned were greatly influenced by the clients’ level of education. This study offers a meaningful identification of consumer behavior in rural banking sector. It bares a standpoint for rural banks to take into account the changing needs and wants of their valued clients.

Intramuscular distribution of the phrenic nerve in human diaphragm as shown by Sihler staining

Intramuscular innervation of the human diaphragm has not been well described. The goal of this study was to elucidate the detailed intramuscular distribution of the phrenic nerve in the human diaphragm. Fifteen human diaphragms were visualized using modified Sihler staining, and the detailed intramuscular phrenic nerve distribution was photographed and recorded. Three types of primary phrenic nerve branches were noted. Each type of primary branch innervated a confined muscular subvolume of the diaphragm, and the intramuscular branches in each subvolume anastomosed largely with one another and formed a characteristic "net" of nerve branches. A few small nerve filaments were seen entering the peripheral diaphragm. The directions and locations of nerve branches innervating the hiatal diaphragm were not symmetrical between sides. These findings may offer useful information for anatomists, physiologists, and clinicians.

A geographical information system approach for evaluating the optimum location of point-like facilities in a hierarchical network

Τhis paper discusses a methodology for solving the problem of finding an optimum location for a number of facilities entering an existing hierarchical network. The locational optimization problem is approached with a continuous model. The facilities are considered as point-like. The proposed methodology solves these problems by using Voronoi diagrams to define the catchment area and minimizes the average distance traveled by the users. The approach is implemented by loose coupling between the Directed Tabu Search algorithm for continuous nonlinear optimization with constraints and the Geographical Information System where the cost function is evaluated. In the case study example, facilities operate in a hierarchical network consisting of bank branches and Automated Teller Machines (ATM) of a private Greek bank. A new bank branch location and the insertion of an ATM were examined and compared, providing an improvement of 25.6 and 12.8%, respectively. The proposed approach resulted in visualizing the optimum location on the map, providing the ability to study the modifications that occurred. This could be a useful tool in the hands of practitioners and provide new options in the decision-making process.

Productivity and efficiency dynamics in Indian banking: An input distance function approach incorporating quality of inputs and outputs

SUMMARYBanking technology is typically characterized by multiple inputs and multiple outputs that are associated with various attributes, such as different types of deposits, loans, number of accounts, classes of employees and location of branches. These quality differentials in inputs and outputs are mostly ignored in empirical studies. These omissions make the practical value of productivity studies in organizations like banks questionable because quality is a key component of performance. This paper proposes using hedonic aggregator functions (as a tool of aggregating inputs and outputs with quality attributes) within an input distance function framework and analyzes the impact of banking deregulation on efficiency and total factor productivity (TFP) change in the Indian banking industry using panel data for the period 1996–2005. Empirical results indicate that banks have improved their efficiency (from 61% in 1996 to 72% in 2005) during the post‐deregulation period, and the gain in efficiency of state‐owned banks has surpassed that of private banks. Improvement in capital base, as indicated by increased capital adequacy ratio, played an important role in ushering efficiency gain. The return to scale estimate suggests that state‐owned banks are operating far above their efficient scale and cost savings can be obtained by reducing their size of operations. Overall, TFP growth was above 3.5% annually. Both technical progress and technical efficiency change consistently played an important role in shaping TFP growth. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley &amp; Sons, Ltd.

Branch Reconfiguration Practice Through Operations Research in Industrial and Commercial Bank of China

Industrial and Commercial Bank of China (ICBC), the world's largest publicly traded bank as measured by market capitalization, deposit volume, and profitability, has a network of over 16,000 branches. This network is an important core competency and is fundamental to ICBC business development. To keep its leading position in the fast-changing and competitive China market, ICBC needed to reconfigure its branch locations and service capabilities to match the regional economy and customer distribution; therefore, it had to quickly identify new high-potential market areas in which to open branches. ICBC partnered with IBM to customize an operations research-based branch network optimization system, Branch Reconfiguration (BR), which it has implemented in over 40 major cities in China. In a typical major city (e.g., Suzhou), ICBC attributes US $1.04 billion in increased deposits to BR. The BR project is an example of successfully using operations research and management sciences to transform the service channels of a large bank in a manner that will continue to improve the bank's business development and decision making.