bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Corporate social responsibility: market regulation and the evidence
Authors: van Dijken Francisca
Published: November 2007

Purpose

Much has been written about the importance of corporate social responsibility (CSR) and the need to assure its importance through formal regulation and reporting requirements. Little reflection has taken place on the role of the market in achieving effective regulation and behaviour changes in this area through an analysis of stock values. This study seeks to fill that gap by presenting an analysis of CSR influences on stock values facilitated by the regulatory methods of the stock markets.

Design/methodology/approach

The 90 shares of the US Dow Jones Sustainability Index were chosen as the sample of firms with “value‐generating CSR”. The performance of these individual shares was analysed by comparing their return with the relevant indexes, with the respective industry and on a risk‐adjusted basis, for the six years and the ten years ended 30 June 2006. Several tests were carried out to see whether or not the sample contained a value/growth/core/large cap bias.

Findings

The results were impressive: stocks from companies with “value‐driven CSR” clearly outperformed the market and their peers over extensive periods of time, with reasonably low risk.

Research limitations/implications

There are several limitations of this type of analysis ranging from those inherent in the Capital Asset Pricing Model, to the fact that other cultures might define corporate responsibility differently.

Originality/value

The CSR2 model introduced suggests how CSR can generate value reflected in the stock market. If so, the markets can prove to be an effective tool in regulating externalities related to pollution or global warming.
The effects of corporate brand attributes on attitudinal and behavioural consumer loyalty
Authors: Anatolevena Anisimova Tatiana
Published: November 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this research is to investigate the influence of the corporate brand on attitudinal and behavioural consumer loyalty. This paper empirically demonstrates a significant relationship between consumer‐perceived corporate brand and consumer attitudinal and behavioural loyalty.

Design/methodology/approach

The research is based on a sample of 285 consumers of an automobile manufacturer in Australia. Cronbach alpha and Structural Equation Modelling were used to establish psychometric properties of the corporate brand constructs.

Findings

This paper establishes two groups of corporate brand attributes: corporate and marketing‐level. Corporate‐level dimensions include corporate activities, corporate associations, organizational values, and corporate personality. Marketing‐level dimensions comprise functional, emotional and symbolic brand benefits. The results reveal that corporate values, corporate brand personality and functional consumer benefits are the most critical and consistent predictors of both attitudinal and behavioural loyalty.

Practical implications

Through the comprehensive measurement of the corporate brand impact on both attitudinal and behavioural loyalty, this paper offers insights for designing corporate branding strategies and generating consumer loyalty.

Originality/value

This paper provides empirical validation of the relationship between consumer corporate brand perceptions and consumer loyalty and demonstrates that the influence of each particular corporate brand attribute may be different.
A literature review exploring values alignment as a proactive approach to conflict management
Authors: Lynn Fitzpatrick Rona
Published: November 2007

Purpose

The research aim has two purposes: to clarify the concepts of values, collaboration and conflict and their relationship with one another within organizations; and to provide data that supported or disconfirm values alignment as a proactive approach to conflict management.

Design/methodology/approach

An interdisciplinary review of literature was undertaken, as current literature on the topic of values as it relates to conflict was very limited in scope. The key concepts investigated were the connection between values (including alignment and congruence) and decision making, behavior, collaboration, strategy, prioritization and conflict within an organization. Research was guided using constructionism, chaos and complexity theories within a framework of Chaordic systems thinking.

Findings

The paper provides documentation that previous values research practices have been fragmented and have had limited practical applications. Support is provided indicating that values alignment fosters collaboration and could be a proactive approach to conflict management.

Research implications/limitations

No long‐term studies were found on the topic of inquiry, although some documentation on business performance is starting to appear. Further research using values alignment as an organizational process would be beneficial. Practical implications – The framework presented appears to have a pragmatic application that would benefit organizational development and effectiveness. Originality/value – This paper expands previous studies by examining values research across domains and suggesting a different research approach. A model is discussed that provides meaningful linkage between business strategy and organizational values.
Public relations professional practice and the institutionalisation of CSR
Authors: Bartlett Jennifer , Tywoniak Stephane , Hatcher Caroline
Published: November 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this research is to present the findings of a longitudinal case study into the professionalisation of public relations practices and the institutionalisation of corporate social responsibility as a legitimate social and business arrangement. In doing so, there are implications for the dynamic relationship between practices and the professionalisation of public relations.

Design/methodology/approach

A qualitative longitudinal study is used to examine the social construction of social responsibility in the Australian banking industry from 1999‐2004 across two levels of analysis – societal expectations as institution, and practices of banking and public relations as action.

Findings

The study shows that the case organisations shifted their public relations and communication practices during the period of the study. In response to the demands of publics, there was a central shift from a one‐way perspective where organisations sought to influence and persuade publics of the appropriateness of their actions towards a two‐way perspective where organisations needed to consult, negotiate and engage with publics. In doing so, this study suggests that there was a shift in the profession of how public relations was practiced, but also highlighted the changes to institutional arrangements about the legitimacy of social responsibilities of large organisations.

Research limitations/implications

The study uses an interpretive perspective to understand the role and impact of public relations practice on societal change.

Practical implications

This research examines the role of public relations practice in achieving longer term changes for organisations and society. This contributes a first step towards developing a theoretical understanding of the contribution of public relations practice to organisational success and therefore evaluation.

Originality/value

This paper makes two central contributions. Firstly, institutional theory and the social construction of societal and business standards of legitimacy are used in a public relations context. Secondly, this paper shows the effects of the micro‐level of analysis of public relations practices on the macro‐level of the profession.
The negative communication dynamic
Authors: Timothy Coombs W. , Holladay Sherry J.
Published: November 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this research is to present a study designed to test if anger is a mediator in the relationship between crisis responsibility and negative word‐of‐mouth and crisis responsibility and purchase intention. Emphasizes the relationship between anger, crisis responsibility, and intended negative word‐of‐mouth, what we call the negative communication dynamic. Researchers have just begun to explore the role of affect in crisis communication by linking it to behavioral intentions and proving that crisis affect is largely a function of crisis responsibility (perceived organizational responsibility for the crisis).

Design/methodology/approach

An experimental design is used to test for the mediator relationship. The design reflects the study's theoretical link to Attribution Theory.

Findings

The results support that anger is a moderator in the relationship between crisis responsibility and intended negative word‐of‐mouth and between crisis responsibility and purchase intention.

Research limitations/implications

Future research should examine how crisis response strategies can be used to lessen anger and to reduce the likelihood of the negative communication dynamic.

Practical implications

Crisis managers can use the cues for estimating crisis responsibility to determine anger because of the strong correlation between the two variables. Crisis managers should engage in words and actions designed to reduce the anger and reduce the likelihood of the negative communication dynamic.

Originality/value

This paper provides novel insight into the role and value of anger in crisis communication.
Public relations models and persuasion ethics: a new approach
Authors: Fawkes Johanna
Published: November 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to review public relations and related literature to examine attitudes to persuasion and propaganda as part of a long‐term project to produce an integrated ethical framework.

Design/methodology/approach

A critical approach to existing literature, examining assumptions and value judgments underpinning core texts and other writing. The limitations of systems, marketplace and relationship theory are briefly examined.

Findings

The dominance of systems theory and its reluctance to engage with persuasion has created a vacuum which is filled by critics, such as Stauber and Rampton. The common models of public relations – boundary spanner, advocate, relationship manager and propagandist – have limited discussion of persuasion and persuasion ethics, with the exception of the rhetorical version of advocacy which has produced considerable material of interest. However, rhetoric is rarely taught in the UK and the marketplace approach is more common. Social psychology has useful insights into persuasion and the Maletzke model is adapted to suggest future direction for an integrated ethical framework.

Research limitations/implications

These are preliminary findings, based on literature, which will underpin the PhD started in July 2007. The application of the model is explored but has not yet been tested in practice.

Practical implications

If practitioners internalise particular versions of public relations and adopt ethical assumptions connected with each model, competing views of PR ethics will undermine an integrative approach. The adapted model proposed in this paper can be used either as a tool for analysing communication ethics or as a practical guide to professional behaviour.

Originality/value

Others (L'Etang, Piezska, Moloney, Weaver, Edgett) have covered some of these issues. This paper links ethical approaches with models of public relations and suggests the use of a communication model rarely referenced in PR literature.
Officers at work in a multicultural police force
Authors: Heijes Coen
Published: November 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this exploratory paper is to examine cross‐cultural perception and cooperation between black, Curaçaoan and white Dutch police officers in The Netherlands. It also compares the findings with similar research carried out in the Dutch Internal Revenue Service.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper is a multiple ethnographic case study using participant observation, interviews and literature review.

Findings

The paper finds a problematic cooperation between black Curaçaoans and white Dutch in the police. These are based neither on cultural differences nor on the traditional white, male organization type; instead, they are related to the specific, organizational culture in the police and the hierarchical position of both groups in the organization.

Research limitations/implications

This paper shares the general limitations of case‐study research. However, the findings allow one to draw conclusions beyond this limited population and challenge researchers to engage in further study on cross‐cultural cooperation in relation to organizational culture and to more general theories on in‐group versus out‐group behaviour. This line of research could focus on different ethnic groups, as well as other countries and organizations, and introduce longitudinal studies.

Practical implications

The paper shows that the depth of the troublesome cross‐cultural cooperation and the role of organizational culture can help police managers and administrators in decisions involving research, training, management and evaluation.

Originality/value

The paper sees that, with most research in this area based on studies in the USA and UK and limited to the police force as such, this paper fills a gap in examining cross‐cultural perception and cooperation in The Netherlands, including a comparative analysis with a similar government organization. The work also adds to the growing body of qualitative research and gives voice to officers at work in a multicultural police force.
The criminal justice degree and policing: conceptual development or occupational primer?
Authors: Carlan Philip E.
Published: November 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to assess the value that police officers with criminal justice degrees place on their personal educational experiences, while also comparing those perceptions with officers educated in other academic disciplines. Its focus also rests on the degree's contribution to conceptual and managerial skills, as opposed to mere occupational expertise. Disagreement between the academic and law enforcement communities concerning the value of criminal justice education creates an imbalance eroding potential benefits. Recent studies highlight this division as even pre‐service majors regard the degree as unrelated to most policing functions.

Design/methodology/approach

Police departments with 50 or more sworn officers from across the State of Alabama (United States) were the data collection sites (n=21). In total, 16 departments participated and 1,114 officers (57 percent) responded to a mail survey (2002).

Findings

The paper finds that officers with criminal justice degrees (n=299) reported that the degree substantially improved their knowledge and abilities on a wide range of areas from the criminal justice system to conceptual and managerial skills. Responses did not differ significantly from officers educated in non‐criminal justice academic disciplines.

Practical implications

The paper demonstrates that college‐educated police officers regard the criminal justice degree as more than mere occupational training.

Originality/value

The paper equips police managers with tangible findings that police officers with criminal justice college degrees value its mental and conceptual contributions.
Citizen oversight, procedural justice, and officer perceptions of the complaint investigation process
Authors: De Angelis Joseph , Kupchik Aaron
Published: November 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine data from a survey of police officers in a Western US city, showing the factors that shape police officers' satisfaction with their city's system for investigating and resolving citizen complaints alleging officer misconduct. Specifically, it tests whether perceptions of legitimate authority and procedural justice influence overall satisfaction, and how these two theoretical perspectives fare relative to a distributive justice perspective.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper uses anonymous mailed surveys to examine the attitudes of a sample of 373 police officer respondents from one large urban police department.

Findings

The findings support the importance of both procedural justice and perceived legitimacy by finding that both perspectives shape officers' satisfaction more than the actual outcomes reached on their cases. Attitudes toward oversight were not found to be related to satisfaction with the complaint process.

Research limitations/implications

This paper focuses on only one city and has a relatively small number of respondents.

Originality/value

In this paper the analyses expand these theoretical perspectives by applying them to a unique and important group, the police themselves, whose attitude toward citizen complaints and police accountability has been largely neglected by the prior research.
Measuring and diagnosing innovation excellence – simple contra advanced approaches: a Danish study
Authors: Martensen Anne , Dahlgaard Jens J. , Mi Park‐Dahlgaard Su , Grønholdt Lars
Published: November 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine two approaches to measure and diagnose innovation excellence.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper is a conceptual model for innovation excellence and a measurement system is developed. A Danish survey forms the empirical basis for the study, where a simple approach (by using stated importance of different innovation activities) and an advanced approach (by using derived importance based on structural equation modelling and PLS estimation) are demonstrated, discussed and compared.

Findings

The findings in this paper indicate good support for the developed model. When comparing the two approaches for identifying and prioritising improvements, both equalities and differences are found and discussed.

Research limitations/implications

This study in this paper is limited to one Danish manufacturing company, which is considered to be one of the most innovative and excellent companies in Denmark. However, it is desirable to apply the model in other companies and industries.

Practical implications

This paper offers a model to understand and measure innovation results and its enablers, and the application of the model will give companies a better chance of attaining innovative excellence.

Originality/value

The paper provides a novel model for innovation excellence, which is based on a solid theoretical foundation, has been proven in practice, and can be an effective framework for identifying and prioritising improvements within innovation.
Mobile customer relationship management: underlying issues and challenges
Authors: Sinisalo Jaakko , Salo Jari , Karjaluoto Heikki , Leppäniemi Matti
Published: November 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this study is twofold. First, in order to guarantee a coherent discussion about mobile customer relationship management (mCRM), this paper presents a conceptualization of mCRM delineating its unique characteristics. Second, the authors develop the empirically grounded framework of the underlying issues in the initiation of mCRM.

Design/methodology/approach

A single‐case‐study method is used for the empirical component of the study in order to gain a holistic view of the case and access to latent and confidential information of the company under scrutiny. Semi‐structured interviews of the key informants of the company form the main data source through which the issues are identified and the proposed framework is built.

Findings

The proposed framework identifies issues that can be divided into three categories (exogenous, endogenous and mCRM‐specific) the company has to take into account when moving towards mCRM.

Research limitations/implications

Since, this is a single‐case study the findings cannot be generalized and used in other contexts without reservation.

Practical implications

When planning to initiate mCRM, the illustrated framework includes all the vital issues that should be considered and serves as a preliminary guideline from which to approach mobile CRM.

Originality/value

This paper shed light on the emerging phenomenon known as mCRM.
Mobile technology in field customer service
Authors: Rossi Matti , Kristiina Tuunainen Virpi , Pesonen Marju
Published: November 2007

Purpose

The paper aims to look at the development of a mobile information system for a tobacco wholesaler in the Baltic region, focusing on understanding the issues involved in deploying a new system into a traditionally operating work force in a transition economy.

Design/methodology/approach

To overcome the problems in billing cycle in the case company, an action research approach was used to develop a new process for sales documentation and employed advanced mobile technologies in the process. The research approach followed an action research cycle of diagnosis, action planning, action taking, evaluation, and specifying learning.

Findings

The findings highlight the importance of the change in the mind‐sets of the employees when using a new technology, and the obstacles of the use of advanced mobile technologies. They also stress the problems encountered while considering more or less experimental technologies for day‐to‐day operations of a business. The key finding is that new technology is much easier to take into use, when it is accompanied with a small but visible enhancement in both the work routines of individuals and the operations of the organization.

Practical implications

The Amer case highlights the importance of considering technological implications of mobile technology already in planning stage of the new solution. Furthermore, there are special features related to mobility including, for instance, usability of advanced mobile technology, reliability, transmission mode, level of auxiliary devices and user adaptability.

Originality/value

This paper describes a unique case of business use of mobile technology in connection to re‐engineering field sales processes, and can be of use both to practitioners as well as researchers and students in the field.
The link between hospital quality and services profitability
Authors: Hegji Charles E. , Self Donald R. , Findley Carolyn Sara (Casey)
Published: November 2007

Purpose

The paper aims to study the relationship between hospital quality and hospital profits for a sample of 88 Alabama hospitals.

Design/methodology/approach

Quality is measured by three groups of procedures performed on newly admitted patients as suggested by the health quality alliance (HQA). Profit is measured for eight hospital services. Regression analyses tested the underlying relationships.

Findings

Quality of care for newly admitted cardiac and pneumonia patients are indicators of quality translatable into profits. Given a choice between the two, the pneumonia procedures were more effective in predicting profits.

Originality/value

As one of the early extensions of the HQA methodology, this paper does demonstrate linkages between quality and profits. Total number of employees was not significant, but governmental versus non‐governmental hospital analyses provide promise for future research.
E‐healthcare: an analysis of key themes in research
Authors: Mukherjee Avinandan , McGinnis John
Published: November 2007

Purpose

Healthcare is among the fastest‐growing sectors in both developed and emerging economies. E‐healthcare is contributing to the explosive growth within this industry by utilizing the internet and all its capabilities to support its stakeholders with information searches and communication processes. The purpose of this paper is to present the state‐of‐the‐art and to identify key themes in research on e‐healthcare.

Design/methodology/approach

A review of the literature in the marketing and management of e‐healthcare was conducted to determine the major themes pertinent to e‐healthcare research as well as the commonalities and differences within these themes.

Findings

Based on the literature review, the five major themes of e‐healthcare research identified are: cost savings; virtual networking; electronic medical records; source credibility and privacy concerns; and physician‐patient relationships.

Originality/value

Based on these major themes, managerial implications for e‐healthcare are formulated. Suggestions are offered to facilitate healthcare service organizations' attempts to further implement and properly utilize e‐healthcare in their facilities. These propositions will also help these stakeholders develop and streamline their e‐healthcare processes already in use. E‐healthcare systems enable firms to improve efficiency, to reduce costs, and to facilitate the coordination of care across multiple facilities.
Distortion of flavin geometry is linked to ligand binding in cholesterol oxidase
Authors: Lyubimov Artem Y. , Heard Kathryn , Tang Hui , Sampson Nicole S. , Vrielink Alice
Published: November 2007

Two high‐resolution structures of a double mutant of bacterial cholesterol oxidase in the presence or absence of a ligand, glycerol, are presented, showing the trajectory of glycerol as it binds in a Michaelis complex‐like position in the active site. A group of three aromatic residues forces the oxidized isoalloxazine moiety to bend along the N5‐N10 axis as a response to the binding of glycerol in the active site. Movement of these aromatic residues is only observed in the glycerol‐bound structure, indicating that some tuning of the FAD redox potential is caused by the formation of the Michaelis complex during regular catalysis. This structural study suggests a possible mechanism of substrate‐assisted flavin activation, improves our understanding of the interplay between the enzyme, its flavin cofactor and its substrate, and is of use to the future design of effective cholesterol oxidase inhibitors.
Designing Electrical Power Systems for Survivability and Quality of Service
Authors: DOERRY NORBERT
Published: November 2007

The primary aim of the design of a shipboard electric power system has traditionally been survivability and continuity of the electrical power supply. Survivability relates to the ability of the power system, when damaged by a threat, to support the ship's ability to continue its missions. Power continuity relates to the ability of the power system to reliably provide power to ship systems under normal operations. This paper proposes new metrics for survivability and continuity of service that enable a better definition of power system requirements linked to the operational needs of the ship. For survivability, the threats for which a ship is designed are its design threats, and the required residual capability following damage from a design threat is the design threat outcome. Quality of service serves as a metric of the continuity of the electrical power supply under normal operation. Quality of service is measured in terms of a mean time between service interruption. A service interruption is defined as any interruption in the supply or deviations outside normal bounds of power quality that prevent a load from performing its assigned function.
High‐Speed Generators for Power‐Dense, Medium‐Power, Gas Turbine Generator Sets
Authors: CALFO RAY M. , SMITH MATT B. , TESSARO JOHN E.
Published: November 2007

Concepts to improve turbine generator (TG) set power density (PD) are identified, developed, and evaluated. The evaluation focuses on the TG set as a part of overall system optimization, with weight and volume penalties for special auxiliaries. PD is given priority, while other attributes such as efficiency, acoustics, and total system cost are also assessed. The strengths and weaknesses of each concept are assessed based on technical viability, potential for PD improvement, and risk. Sixty‐one generator concepts over four generator types—air‐cooled wound field, water‐cooled wound field, permanent magnet (PM), and high‐temperature superconducting (HTS)—are evaluated with three ship‐level electrical distribution architectures—high‐frequency AC and active‐ and passive‐rectified DC. A prime mover of 14 MW at 7,000 r.p.m. is assumed. The study assesses generator size enabled by directly coupling the generator to the prime mover, eliminating the typical gear required in TG sets with engine speeds greater than 3,600 r.p.m. Technology approaches are described and trends in the design data are identified. Advanced PM and superconducting rotor technologies are evaluated. For the power, speed, and system requirements studied, these technologies do not differ significantly from water‐cooled designs in size and weight. A water‐cooled generator would be compatible with a range of future power distribution systems such as high‐frequency AC, rectified DC, or 60 Hz AC (using a rectifier and an inverter).
Hybrid Electric Drive for DDG‐51 Class Destroyers
Authors: McCOY TIMOTHY , ZGLICZYNSKI JIM , JOHANSON NILES W. , PUHN FREDERICK A. , MARTIN THOMAS W.
Published: November 2007

The first of the Arleigh Burke class destroyers is nearing its mid‐life. This class of ships was designed during the late 1970s through the 1980s to meet the threats that were prevalent at that time. Since entering service in 1991, these ships have shown themselves to be extremely versatile and the class now consists of nearly 60 ships in service. Their combat systems have been continually upgraded and adapted to meet the new threats the United States faces today. However, in order to keep these platforms viable throughout the first half of the 21st century, their operating costs must be reduced. Manpower, maintenance, and fuel are three of the top operating cost drivers. Most surface combatants spend very little of their underway time operating at full speed or even close to that. Over 1/3 of their underway time is spent at 12 knots and under. This is less than half of their maximum speed and only a fraction of the maximum power owing to the cubic speed–power relationship. Although the existing mechanical drive system is reasonably efficient, the main gas turbines are extremely inefficient at these very low power levels. A shaft‐mounted auxiliary electric propulsion system (EPS) can take advantage of excess capacity in the ship service generators to reduce the main engine operating hours. Enabling bi‐directional power flow from this auxiliary electric drive will provide additional generation capacity for ship service loads at a modest additional cost. It also provides a “cross‐connect” capability from one shaft to the other. This paper will explore one prospect for reducing the operating cost of the DDG‐51 class of ships by installing an auxiliary EPS that would powered by the ship service electrical plant. This additional system would serve to reduce both underway fuel usage as well as maintenance on the gas turbine main engines by reducing the number of operating hours on each engine. We will examine the technology trade‐offs in this ongoing study.
Phylogeny of bird‐grasshopper subfamily Cyrtacanthacridinae (Orthoptera: Acrididae) and the evolution of locust phase polyphenism
Authors: Song Hojun , Wenzel John W.
Published: November 2007

Locust phase polyphenism is an extreme form of density‐dependent phenotypic plasticity in which solitary and cryptic grasshoppers can transform into gregarious and conspicuous locusts in response to an increase in local population density. We investigated the evolution of this complex phenotypic plasticity in a phylogenetic framework using a morphological phylogeny of Cyrtacanthacridinae, which contains some of the most important locust species, and a comprehensive literature review on the biology and ecology of all known members of the subfamily. A phylogenetic analysis based on 71 morphological characters yielded a well‐resolved tree and found that locust phase polyphenism evolved multiple times within the subfamily. The literature review demonstrated that many cyrtacanthacridine species, both locust and sedentary, are capable of expressing density‐dependent color plasticity. When this color plasticity was divided into two smaller components, background coloration and development of black pigmentation, and when these plastic traits were optimized on to the phylogeny, we found that the physiological mechanisms underlying this plasticity were plesiomorphic for the subfamily. We also found that different locust species in Cyrtacanthacridinae express both similarities and differences in their locust phase polyphenism. Because locust phase polyphenism is a complex syndrome consisting of numerous plastic traits, we treat it as a composite character and dissected it into smaller components. The similarities among locust species could be attributed to shared ancestry and the differences could be attributed to the certain components of locust phase polyphenism evolving at different rates.

© The Willi Hennig Society 2007.
Coping style mediates impact of stress on alcohol use: a prospective population‐based study
Authors: Veenstra Marja Y. , Lemmens Paul H. H. M. , Friesema Ingrid H. M. , Tan Frans E. S. , Garretsen Henk F. L. , Knottnerus J. André , Zwietering Paul J.
Published: November 2007

Aims  This study examines the relationship between stressful life‐events and alcohol use in a longitudinal cohort study, and investigates whether gender, coping style and social support modify this relationship.

Design, setting and participants  Data analysed in this paper come from a sample of 1608 men and 1645 women drawn randomly from the cohort known as the Dutch Lifestyle and Health Study, consisting of 16 210 men and women aged 45–70 years, who were followed‐up for 4 years (1996–2000).

Measurement  Alcohol use (recent and in the more distant past), occurrence of threatening life‐events, coping style (action, cognitive and emotion coping), social support (perceived, actual support and social contacts) and other potential confounding factors were assessed with five annual self‐administered questionnaires. The data were analysed with a mixed‐effects modelling technique, controlling for interactions with time and gender.

Findings and conclusion  An interaction effect was found between experiencing a negative life‐event and emotion coping on alcohol use. A positive relationship was found between the occurrence of negative life‐events and alcohol use in subjects scoring high on emotion coping, and a negative one among subjects scoring low on emotion coping. Cognitive coping, action coping, actual support, social contacts and gender did not modify the relationship between life‐events and alcohol use. However, having a more cognitive coping style or more social contacts was associated with a lower level of alcohol use, whereas having an action coping style and receiving more actual social support was associated with a higher drinking level. It seems plausible that people scoring high on emotion coping, characterized by a passive, resigned, indulgent and self‐accusatory coping style, increase their alcohol use after experiencing a negative life‐event.
The ecology of the hippopotamus in Liwonde National Park, Malawi: implications for management
Authors: Harrison Mark E. , Kalindekafe Meya P. , Banda Bryson
Published: November 2007

The hippopotamus population in Liwonde National Park, Malawi was studied from December 2002 to June 2003. Motorboat censuses along the River Shire counted 640 animals, but because of the large number of hippos in temporary water sources at the time, the true number is probably closer to 950. Marked shifts in hippo distribution from the Shire into temporary water sources occurred as the wet season advanced. Because of the Shire’s year‐round water supply, the hippo population is not regulated by the availability of aquatic refuges, but by food availability. By following feeding tracks, dry season grazing range was estimated to extend 5 km east and 1 km west of the river. Grazing intensity transects and visual estimates indicated only a small portion of this area is suitable for hippo grazing, leading to over‐grazing in suitable areas. Coupled with low primary productivity levels in Liwonde, this means that dry season food competition between hippos and other herbivores is probably high. Recent proposals to raise the Shire’s dry season water level should be considered very carefully, as this will flood late dry season grazing grounds, thereby intensifying grazing competition and increasing grazing pressure in remaining grazing areas, having potentially serious impacts on the animal community.
Aspects of the ecology of the spotted blindsnake, Typhlops punctatus punctatus in Port‐Harcourt, Nigeria
Authors: Akani Godfrey C. , Luiselli Luca , Eniang Edem A. , Amuzie Charity C. , Ebere Nwabueze
Published: November 2007

The ecology of the blindsnake, Typhlops punctatus punctatus in five selected study plots in the River Niger Delta (Port Harcourt, Nigeria) was investigated. A total of 207 specimens were collected, 43% occurring under stones, 30% under leaf litter and 15% under logs. The number of snakes found under cover objects was significantly influenced by the number of cover objects lifted up. GLM analysis revealed that there was no difference in terms of number of snakes observed, once the relative effect of the different number of cover objects lifted up was taken into account, either among study plots or among types of cover objects. These snakes appeared to have a strong affinity for loamy soils, with moisture content of 8–18%, high organic matter (1–6%) and slightly acid pH of 5.4–6.9. Stomach content analysis revealed that these snakes fed mainly upon ants and termites. A case of predation by the toad Bufo maculatus on a juvenile blindsnake was also reported.
Carbon and nitrogen parasitism by a xylem‐tapping mistletoe (Tapinanthus oleifolius) along the Kalahari Transect: a stable isotope study
Authors: Wang Lixin , Kgope Barney , D’Odorico Paolo , Macko Stephen A.
Published: November 2007

The present study explores the xylem‐tapping parasitism by mistletoe (Tapinanthus oleifolius) on native tree species along the Kalahari Transect (KT) using the stable isotopes of carbon and nitrogen. Mistletoe‐host pairs were collected at three geographical locations along the KT rainfall gradient in the 2005 and 2006 wet seasons. Foliar total carbon, total nitrogen and their stable isotope compositions (δ13C and δ15N) were measured. Heterotrophy (H) was calculated using foliar δ13C values of mistletoes and their hosts as an indicator of proportion of carbon in the mistletoes derived from host photosynthate. Based on the mistletoe H‐value and relationship between the mistletoe foliar δ15N and their host foliar δ15N, the results showed that mistletoes along the KT derived both nitrogen and carbon from their hosts. Mistletoes may regulate water use in relation to nitrogen supply. The proportion of carbon in the mistletoes derived from host photosynthate was between 35% and 78%, and the degree of heterotrophy was species‐specific with only limited annual variation. The study emphasizes the importance of incorporating parasitic associations in future studies on studying carbon, water and nutrient cycling along the Kalahari.
B cells behaving badly
Authors: Shim Youn K. , Silver Sharon R. , Caporaso Neil E. , Marti Gerald E. , Middleton Dannie C. , Linet Martha S. , Vogt Robert F. ,   for the 2007 International CLL/MBL Workshop
Published: November 2007

The pathogenesis of B‐cell lymphoproliferative disorders in general and B‐cell chronic lymphocytic leukaemia in particular appears to involve dysfunctional regulation of humoral and cellular immunity with the subsequent development of genetic aberrations in B cells. In theory, either component may arise de novo or may be influenced by environmental exposures including infectious agents, antigens, genotoxic chemicals, or radiation. As an intermediary within the exposure‐disease continuum, monoclonal B‐cell lymphocytosis may be a helpful biomarker for teasing out these various contributions to risk. This article introduces a series of papers that resulted from an International Workshop held in May 2007 entitled ‘Monoclonal B‐cell Lymphocytosis and Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia: Environmental and Genetic Risk Factors’. Research efforts, such as those described in this issue, should lead to improved interventions, more predictive biomarkers, more effective treatments, and a greater appreciation of how the immune system functions over the entire human lifespan.
Chronic lymphocytic leukaemia genetics overview
Authors: Caporaso Neil , Goldin Lynn , Plass Christoph , Calin George , Marti Gerald , Bauer Steven , Raveche Elizabeth , McMaster Mary Lou , Ng David , Landgren Ola , Slager Susan
Published: November 2007

Although the familial aspect of chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL) has been appreciated for decades, it is only with the recent confluence of improved molecular and gene technologies and world‐wide collaborative networks that accelerated progress has become apparent. In this summary we highlight selected themes in the genetics of CLL emphasizing the opportunities and challenges of this malignancy.
Cytometry in monoclonal B‐cell lymphocytosis and chronic lymphocytic leukaemia – The Hunting of the Snark?
Authors: Shapiro Howard M.
Published: November 2007

Cytometry has become important in the detection and determination of risk of monoclonal B‐cell lymphocytosis; methodology has changed, and will continue to change, as cytometric technology changes.
Bioethical considerations of monoclonal B‐cell lymphocytosis: donor transfer after haematopoietic stem cell transplantation
Authors: Hardy Nancy M. , Grady Christine , Pentz Rebecca , Stetler‐Stevenson Maryalice , Raffeld Mark , Fontaine Laura S. , Babb Rebecca , Bishop Michael R. , Caporaso Neil , Marti Gerald E.
Published: November 2007

Monoclonal B‐cell lymphocytosis (MBL) is a recently described laboratory finding in otherwise healthy individuals. In MBL, a light chain‐restricted, clonal B‐cell population, often with a chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL) phenotype, is identified by flow cytometry. Although the prognostic significance remains unclear, there is an increased incidence in ageing populations and those with a family history of CLL. During the past decade of MBL study, three families have come to our attention in which prospective sibling haematopoietic stem cell donors were found to have an MBL. These families raise complex bioethical issues with regard to disclosure of research data, eligibility for clinical trials and potential donor transfer of MBL. These issues are explored in this report. Identification of MBL among prospective sibling transplant donors will become a common occurrence in transplant practice as transplantation is increasingly offered to older individuals and those with CLL.
Overview of monoclonal B‐cell lymphocytosis
Authors: Marti Gerald , Abbasi Fatima , Raveche Elizabeth , Rawstron Andy C. , Ghia Paolo , Aurran Therese , Caporaso Neil , Shim Youn K. , Vogt Robert F.
Published: November 2007

Monoclonal B‐cell lymphocytosis (MBL) has been the subject of more intensive investigation for the last 10 years. The increased presence of MBL in unaffected, first‐degree relatives with familial chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL) suggest that it is surrogate marker for early disease. In normal population studies, MBL is found to be increased in ageing subjects. Consensus criteria for the diagnosis of MBL have been proposed. The differential diagnosis has been further clarified and the prevalence of MBL is most prominent in the elderly. The aetiology of MBL is unknown but probably involves immune mechanism of senescence or altered response. Environmental health studies suggest that exposure to certain toxins may lead to MBL but further work is needed. MBL is a precursor to CLL but may also regress, remain stable or progress to clinical CLL.
Age‐dependent accumulation of monoclonal CD4+CD8+double positive T lymphocytes in the peripheral blood of the elderly
Authors: Ghia Paolo , Prato Giuseppina , Stella Stefania , Scielzo Cristina , Geuna Massimo , Caligaris‐Cappio Federico
Published: November 2007

Multicolour flow cytometric analysis enabled the identification of monoclonal B‐cell lymphocytosis (MBL), frequently resembling chronic lymphocytic leukaemia, at a rather high frequency in peripheral blood (PB) samples from an elderly population. PB T lymphocytes from 103 otherwise healthy subjects >65 years of age and 51 younger donors (<65 years) were analysed. Besides CD4+ and CD8+ single positive (SP) cells, CD4+CD8+ double positive (DP) mature T lymphocytes were present in both series and could be further distinguished into CD4highCD8low and CD4lowCD8high subsets. An age‐dependent increase of both DP T‐cell subsets was observed, while SP T cells remained stable throughout life. Flow cytometry and polymerase chain reaction analysis of the TRBV expression profiles showed the presence of a TRBV restriction within CD4+CD8+ DP cells in more than half (53/103; 55·3%) of the individuals >65 years of age, regardless the actual number of DP T cells observed. Clonal expansions were more prominent within the CD4highCD8low subset, accounting for most circulating DP clones (47/103; 45·6%). A few cases showed more than one (up to three) monoclonal expansion. Clonal CD4lowCD8high DP T‐lymphocyte expansions were detected in only 10/103 samples (9·7%) and showed a close phenotypic similarity to the rare T‐cell large granular lymphocyte leukaemias. The similarities between DP clones and MBL in the elderly may help to better understand the mechanisms of immunosenescence and their relationships with the development of lymphoproliferative disorders.
Myeloma cell expression of 10 candidate genes for osteolytic bone disease. Only overexpression of DKK1 correlates with clinical bone involvement at diagnosis
Authors: Haaber Jacob , Abildgaard Niels , Knudsen Lene Meldgaard , Dahl Inger Marie , Lodahl Marianne , Thomassen Mads , Kerndrup Gitte Birk , Rasmussen Thomas
Published: November 2007

Osteolytic bone disease (OBD) in multiple myeloma (MM) is caused by interactions between MM cells and the bone marrow microenvironment and is characterized by increased osteoclastic bone resorption and decreased osteoblastic bone formation. Recently, the role of osteoblast inhibition has come into focus, especially the possible role of overexpression of DKK1, an inhibitor of the Wnt signalling pathway. Further, CKS2, PSME2 and DHFR have also been reported as candidate genes for OBD. We studied the gene expression by quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction of TNFSF11 (RANKL), TNFSF11A (RANK), TNFRSF11B (OPG), CCL3 (MIP1A), CCL4 (MIP1B), PTHR1 (PTHrp), DKK1, CKS2, PSME2 and DHFR in purified, immunophenotypic FACS‐sorted plasma cells from 171 newly diagnosed MM patients, 20 patients with monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance and 12 controls. The gene expressions of the analysed genes were correlated with radiographically assessed OBD. Only overexpression of DKK1 was correlated to the degree of OBD. Myeloma cells did not express TNFSF11A, TNFSF11, or TNFRSF11B, and very rarely expressed CCL3 and PTHR11. CCL4, CKS2, PSME2 and DHFR were variably expressed, but the expression of these genes showed no correlation with OBD. In contrast, loss of PSME2 expression in MM plasma cells was significantly correlated with OBD.