bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Employment Policies and Practices In Uk Clearing Banks: an Overview1
Authors: Storey John
Published: February 2007

This article reports on the first phase of an MIT‐sponsored study of changing employment practices in banking. It gives an overview of the key issues and dynamics affecting employment management in this rapidly‐changing sector. an analytical framework (based on the five dimensions of market characteristics, products and services, delivery systems, industrial relations and human resource management) is used in order to gauge the nature and extent of change.
The Impact of Employee Share Ownership Plans On Employee Participation and Industrial Democracy
Authors: Pendleton Andrew , McDonald John , Robinson Andrew
Published: February 2007

This article examines employee participation in recently‐formed employee share ownership plan organisations (ESOPS) in the UK. the various legal/institutional forms of ESOP are outlined prior to considering the nature and determinants of participative institutions and processes. It is suggested that there are three ‘constellations’ of ESOP in terms of employee participation:‘technical ESOPS’, ‘paternalist ESOPs’ and ‘representative ESOPs’. There are relatively few innovations in participation in the first of these, while in paternalist ESOPs, innovations centre on individualistic forms of participation and communication at the level of the workplace. In representative ESOPs employees gain more of a say in strategic decisions through such innovations as employee representation on company boards. It is argued that these differences in the nature of participation are due neither to differences in legal structure nor to variations in the extent of employee share ownership. Instead, participative systems are viewed as the outcome of the philosophies and objectives of those involved in the conversion to employee ownership.
Management Strategy and Labour Flexibility In Japanese Manufacturing Enterprises
Authors: Benson John
Published: February 2007

Since the 1970s Japanese labour relations and management practices have been scrutinised as Western firms search for ways to improve their productivity and international competitiveness. Pervading this literature is the view that the Japanese labour market is flexible and adaptable. the purpose of this article is to ascertain if flexibility is a key strategic objective of management and if Japanese firms adopt a core‐peripheral approach to employment. the research is based on a survey of Japanese enterprises conducted and detailed interviews with senior managers. the major finding is that Japanese labour practices have a strategic component and that the use of casual and contract workers is consistent with a core‐peripheral labour strategy.
The Strategic Hrm Debate and the Resource‐Based View of the Firm
Authors: Boxall Peter
Published: February 2007

This article examines the implications of the resource‐based view of the firm for the theory of strategic HRM. the resource‐based view points to the sources of human resource advantage in building organisational capability. In this way, it helps us to identify the various ways in which HRM contributes to the strategic management of the firm. More work must be done, however, to relate resource‐based concepts to important premises in employment relations theory. While our existing research base suggests that it will be possible to identify particular firms in any industry and economy which have built human resource advantage, the article argues that comparative research will continue to show important national differences which affect the competitiveness of firms.
Transitions In the Psychological Contract: Some Evidence From the Banking Sector
Authors: Sparrow Paul R.
Published: February 2007

This study examines the psychological contract in a sample of 107 employees in a retail bank. Deregulation, market‐entry by non‐traditional suppliers, and the introduction of advanced technology have changed the security of and rules implicit in the employment contract in the UK banking sector, which is one of the leading contenders for downsizing and delayering. Many banks are experiencing increased employee cynicism. New structures and technology, demanding levels of customer service, and new competitors have produced heightened attention towards performance and are associated with the need for employees to develop new competencies, such as relationship‐handling and sales skills. Regardless of whether banks pursue high performance management systems or control‐based HR strategies, the requirement for committed and engaged employees able to develop new competencies is an assumed constant. Demographic factors such as age, service and sex are found to be partial predictors of some attitudinal items. However, these proxy measures of attachment to the old employment deal are not related to items that consider commitment or satisfaction. the psychological contracts in the bank are highly fragmented. Seven underlying constructs are revealed: ‘frustratedly disengaged’, ‘still ambitious’, ‘passively flexible’, ‘guidance seekers’, ‘buy me outers’, ‘don't push me too fast’ and ‘just pay me more’. Implications of the research for HRM, the management of new internal labour markets in the banks and future directions of research on the psychological contract are discussed. It is concluded that a new set of internal labour markets are being created within the banks, the dynamics of which clearly revolve around a wide range of individual factors. Accepted wisdom about participative management practices will be challenged in the HR strategies of the late 1990s.
Disability management and the Disability Discrimination Act
Authors: Bruyère Susanne , James Philip
Published: February 2007

This article examines the implications that the Disability Discrimination Act is likely to have for existing organisational practices relating to the treatment of employees who acquire a disability during the course of their employment. Drawing on claims experience under the Americans with Disabilities Act, the authors conclude that if employers are to minimise their legal difficulties they need to adopt a proactive approach to disability management, encompassing both preventive and remedial strategies. They further suggest that the HR function is the best place to locate responsibility for ensuring that such an approach is adopted and effectively implemented.
Constructing HR information systems
Authors: Liff Sonia
Published: February 2007

Accounts of human resource information systems (HRISs) range from predominantly technical accounts, which assume that the data contained and the way it is organised are straightforward reflections of reality, to accounts which see such systems as a way of exercising disciplinary power through the creation of a new view of the organisation. These different conceptions are explored through an investigation of three organisations which were developing information systems relating to workforce skills and workplace requirements. The article focuses on different conceptualisations of skill and their significance for approaches to HR strategy. It is also concerned with the way in which managers develop and refine such information systems, and the analogy of mapping is examined as a way of understanding this process.
Whistleblowing at work: ingredients for an effective procedure
Authors: Lewis David
Published: February 2007

The author rejects the conventional view that whistleblowers are troublemakers and urges managers to treat them as dedicated individuals who provide a valuable safety net when other forms of regulation fail. Since external disclosures are clearly undesirable, the challenge for managers is to devise procedures which positively encourage the internal reporting of concerns. In discussing the ingredients of an effective procedure, the article examines the Nolan Committee's principles of best practice, draws upon empirical research conducted in the United Kingdom and points to some overseas experience. The author concludes that those who have introduced reporting procedures see them as contributing to their image as both an ethical and efficient organisation.
RESEARCH NOTE: ERRORS IN THE OCTOBER HOUSEHOLD SURVEY 1994 AVAILABLE FROM THE SOUTH AFRICAN DATA ARCHIVE1
Authors: Wittenberg Martin
Published: February 2007

The on‐line electronic documentation supplied with the 1994 October Household Survey by the South African Data Archive (SADA) appears to be incorrect. In particular, the electronic version of the questionnaire does not correspond to the hard copy in the possession of the author. The most serious error is that the race classification in the electronic copy is different from the classification on the hard copy. Researchers relying on the electronic copy will erroneously interchange the categories “Coloured”, “White” and “Black”. This could lead to seriously misleading analyses. The reason for this mistake can probably be attributed to a retyping of the questionnaire using the 1993 OHS as a template.
CORPORATE GOVERNANCE AND FINANCING CHOICES OF FIRMS: A PANEL DATA ANALYSIS
Authors: Kyereboah‐coleman Anthony , Biekpe Nicholas
Published: February 2007

We examine how corporate governance indicators such as board size, board composition and CEO duality impact on financing decisions of firms. Panel data covering the five year period 1999‐2003 from forty‐seven (47) listed firms on the Nairobi Stock Exchange (NSE) was used. Analysis was done within the Random‐effects GLS regression framework. Findings of the study indicate that firms with larger board sizes employ more debt irrespective of the maturity period and also the independence of a board negatively and significantly correlates with short‐term debts. Again, when a CEO doubles as board chairperson, less debt is employed. Thus, the study reaffirms the notion that the governance structure of a firm affects its financing choices.
THE EFFECT OF THE SOUTH AFRICAN OLD AGE PENSION ON LABOUR SUPPLY OF THE ELDERLY
Authors: Ranchhod Vimal
Published: February 2007

In this paper, we estimate the effect of the means tested South African Old Age Pension on labour supply amongst the elderly African subpopulation in South Africa. We find significant decreases in employment rates and labour supply. Those who remain employed beyond the pensionable age are more likely to work in jobs with flexible hours of work, and work even fewer hours than people in similar jobs who are not pension age‐eligible. Our results suggest that governments do need to consider the labour supply related incentives provided via its various welfare programmes.
Effects of Simulated Seismic Loading on LBB Assessment of High Energy Piping
Authors: Gupta Suneel K. , Bhasin Vivek , Vaze K. K. , Ghosh A. K. , Kushwaha H. S.
Published: February 2007

The current Leak Before Break (LBB) assessment is based primarily on the monotonic fracture tearing instability. In it the maximum design accident load is compared with the fracture-tearing resistance load. The effect of cyclic loading has not been generally considered in the fracture assessment of nuclear power plant piping. It is a well-known fact that reversible cyclic loading decreases the fracture resistance of the material, which leads to increased crack growth. Indian nuclear power reactors consider Operational-Basis-Earthquake (OBE) and Safe-Shutdown-Earthquake (SSE) events in the design of various structures, systems, and components. Keeping this in view a series of cyclic tearing tests have been conducted on straight pipes, made of ASTM SA333 Gr.6 carbon steel. This is the material of primary heat transport (PHT) piping material of Indian Pressurized Heavy Water Reactors (PHWR). In this series 13 tests have been carried out circumferentially through wall cracked seamless and circumferential seam welded straight pipes under reversible cyclic bending loading. All the tests have been conducted under quasistatic, i.e., slow loading rates and dynamic inertia effects are not considered. The cyclic test results have been compared with the corresponding monotonic pipe fracture test results. These test results and its comparison with corresponding monotonic tearing clearly illustrate the need of addressing the reduction in apparent fracture toughness of material under reversible cyclic loading and the safe number of load cycles in the LBB assessment.
Development of an Improved Methodology for Predicting Airblast Pressure Relief on a Directly Loaded Wall
Authors: Rickman Denis D. , Murrell Donald W.
Published: February 2007

The interaction of an airblast wave with a structure, and the blast wave propagation around and over the structure is of significant importance. In order to protect a structure from the airblast produced by such explosive threats as terrorist bombs, a facility designer must possess an adequate knowledge of the expected blast wave loading. Of greatest importance are pressures and impulses on the directly loaded face of the structure, since it is typically subjected to the highest (reflected) pressures. It has long been recognized that reflected pressure time histories can be strongly influenced by pressure relief from the free edges of the loaded wall. The relief wave can significantly reduce the magnitude of the late-time portion of the positive reflected pressure phase, resulting in a substantial decrease in the peak impulse load. Most current predictive methodologies attempt to account for the relief wave and its effect on impulse. Unfortunately, these methods tend to be rather inaccurate because the exact manner in which the relief wave is manifested is not accurately defined. The US Army Engineer Research and Development Center has developed an improved methodology to predict the effect of pressure relief. This paper presents the basis for the methodology and its practical application.
Voice F responses to pitch-shifted voice feedback during English speech
Authors: Chen Stephanie H. , Liu Hanjun , Xu Yi , Larson Charles R.
Published: February 2007

Previous studies have demonstrated that motor control of segmental features of speech rely to some extent on sensory feedback. Control of voice fundamental frequency (F0) has been shown to be modulated by perturbations in voice pitch feedback during various phonatory tasks and in Mandarin speech. The present study was designed to determine if voice F0 is modulated in a task-dependent manner during production of suprasegmental features of English speech. English speakers received pitch-modulated voice feedback (±50, 100, and 200 cents, 200ms duration) during a sustained vowel task and a speech task. Response magnitudes during speech (mean 31.5 cents) were larger than during the vowels (mean 21.6 cents), response magnitudes increased as a function of stimulus magnitude during speech but not vowels, and responses to downward pitch-shift stimuli were larger than those to upward stimuli. Response latencies were shorter in speech (mean 122ms) compared to vowels (mean 154ms). These findings support previous research suggesting the audio vocal system is involved in the control of suprasegmental features of English speech by correcting for errors between voice pitch feedback and the desired F0.
Source characterization of a subsonic jet by using near-field acoustical holography
Authors: Lee Moohyung , Bolton J. Stuart
Published: February 2007

In the present study, patch near-field acoustical holography was used in conjunction with a multireference, cross-spectral sound pressure measurement to visualize the sound field emitted by a subsonic jet and to predict its farfield radiation pattern. A strategy for microphone array design is described that accounts for the low spatial coherence of aeroacoustic sources and for microphone self-noise resulting from entrained flow near the jet. In the experiments, a 0.8-cm-diameter burner was used to produce a subsonic, turbulent jet with a Mach number of 0.26. Six fixed, linear arrays holding eight reference microphones apiece were disposed circumferentially around the jet, and a circular array holding sixteen, equally spaced field microphones was traversed along the jet axis to measure the sound field on a 30-cm-diameter cylindrical surface enclosing the jet. The results revealed that the jet could be modeled as a combination of eleven uncorrelated dipole-, quadrupole-, and octupole-like sources, and the contribution of each source type to the total radiated sound power could be identified. Both the total sound field reconstructed in a three-dimensional space and the farfield radiation directivity obtained by using the latter model were successfully validated by comparisons to directly measured results.
Use of principle velocity patterns in the analysis of structural acoustic optimization
Authors: Johnson Wayne M. , Cunefare Kenneth A.
Published: February 2007

This work presents an application of principle velocity patterns in the analysis of the structural acoustic design optimization of an eight ply composite cylindrical shell. The approach consists of performing structural acoustic optimizations of a composite cylindrical shell subject to external harmonic monopole excitation. The ply angles are used as the design variables in the optimization. The results of the ply angle design variable formulation are interpreted using the singular value decomposition of the interior acoustic potential energy. The decomposition of the acoustic potential energy provides surface velocity patterns associated with lower levels of interior noise. These surface velocity patterns are shown to correspond to those from the structural acoustic optimization results. Thus, it is demonstrated that the capacity to design multi-ply composite cylinders for quiet interiors is determined by how well the cylinder be can designed to exhibit particular surface velocity patterns associated with lower noise levels.
A mechanistic analysis of stone fracture in lithotripsy
Authors: Sapozhnikov Oleg A. , Maxwell Adam D. , MacConaghy Brian , Bailey Michael R.
Published: February 2007

In vitro experiments and an elastic wave model were used to analyze how stress is induced in kidney stones by lithotripsy and to test the roles of individual mechanisms—spallation, squeezing, and cavitation. Cylindrical U30 cement stones were treated in an HM-3-style lithotripter. Baffles were used to block specific waves responsible for spallation or squeezing. Stones with and without surface cracks added to simulate cavitation damage were tested in glycerol (a cavitation suppressive medium). Each case was simulated using the elasticity equations for an isotropic medium. The calculated location of maximum stress compared well with the experimental observations of where stones fractured in two pieces. Higher calculated maximum tensile stress correlated with fewer shock waves required for fracture. The highest calculated tensile stresses resulted from shear waves initiated at the proximal corners and strengthened along the side surfaces of the stone by the liquid-borne lithotripter shock wave. Peak tensile stress was in the distal end of the stone where fracture occurred. Reflection of the longitudinal wave from the distal face of the stone—spallation—produced lower stresses. Surface cracks accelerated fragmentation when created near the location where the maximum stress was predicted.
An annular superposition integral for axisymmetric radiators
Authors: Kelly James F. , McGough Robert J.
Published: February 2007

A fast integral expression for computing the nearfield pressure is derived for axisymmetric radiators. This method replaces the sum of contributions from concentric annuli with an exact double integral that converges much faster than methods that evaluate the Rayleigh-Sommerfeld integral or the generalized King integral. Expressions are derived for plane circular pistons using both continuous wave and pulsed excitations. Several commonly used apodization schemes for the surface velocity distribution are considered, including polynomial functions and a “smooth piston” function. The effect of different apodization functions on the spectral content of the wave field is explored. Quantitative error and time comparisons between the new method, the Rayleigh-Sommerfeld integral, and the generalized King integral are discussed. At all error levels considered, the annular superposition method achieves a speed-up of at least a factor of 4 relative to the point-source method and a factor of 3 relative to the generalized King integral without increasing the computational complexity.
Influence of acoustic loading on an effective single mass model of the vocal folds
Authors: Zañartu Matías , Mongeau Luc , Wodicka George R.
Published: February 2007

Three-way interactions between sound waves in the subglottal and supraglottal tracts, the vibrations of the vocal folds, and laryngeal flow were investigated. Sound wave propagation was modeled using a wave reflection analog method. An effective single-degree-of-freedom model was designed to model vocal-fold vibrations. The effects of orifice geometry changes on the flow were considered by enforcing a time-varying discharge coefficient within a Bernoulli flow model. The resulting single-degree-of-freedom model allowed for energy transfer from flow to structural vibrations, an essential feature usually incorporated through the use of higher order models. The relative importance of acoustic loading and the time-varying flow resistance for fluid-structure energy transfer was established for various configurations. The results showed that acoustic loading contributed more significantly to the net energy transfer than the time-varying flow resistance, especially for less inertive supraglottal loads. The contribution of supraglottal loading was found to be more significant than that of subglottal loading. Subglottal loading was found to reduce the net energy transfer to the vocal-fold oscillation during phonation, balancing the effects of the supraglottal load.
Comparison of Disk Diffusion and Agar Dilution Methods for Erythromycin and Ciprofloxacin Susceptibility Testing of
Campylobacter jejuni
subsp.
jejuni
Authors: Gaudreau Christiane , Girouard Yves , Ringuette Louise , Tsimiklis Catherine
Published: February 2007

Disk diffusion was a reliable, easy, and inexpensive method for testing the susceptibility of
Campylobacter jejuni
to erythromycin (215 susceptible and 45 resistant isolates) and to ciprofloxacin (154 susceptible, two intermediate, and 124 resistant isolates) using, respectively, an erythromycin disk and ciprofloxacin and nalidixic acid disks.
Tn
1403
, a Multiple-Antibiotic Resistance Transposon Made Up of Three Distinct Transposons
Authors: Stokes H. W. , Elbourne Liam D. H. , Hall Ruth M.
Published: February 2007

Transposon Tn
1403
from a clinical
Pseudomonas
strain is composed of three transposons, including Tn
5393c
. A related transposon Tn
1404
* from a plant-associated
Pseudomonas
strain lacks Tn
5393
but includes a transposon carrying the
tet
(C) tetracycline resistance determinant. These compound transposons illustrate the role of preexisting transposons in generating clusters of antibiotic resistance genes.
Ascaris-induced eosinophilic pneumonitis in an HIV-infected patient: Figure 1
Authors: Kar Pui Lau Susanna , Woo Patrick C Y , Wong Samson S Y , Ma Edmond S K , Yuen Kwok-yung
Published: February 2007

A case ofAscaris-induced eosinophilic pneumonitis in an HIV-infected patient is described. Owing to his HIV status and the absence of peripheral blood eosinophilia on admission, the initial diagnosis was incorrect until the passage of two worms in his stool. The patient developed eosinophilia subsequently, and examination of his sputum also showed increased eosinophils. The patient gradually improved with inhaled bronchodilators, steroid and mebendazole. As peripheral blood eosinophilia may be transient and the larval migration phase occurs before eggs are present in stool, a high index of suspicion is required in making the diagnosis of Ascaris pneumonitis. Examination of sputum for larvae or increased eosinophils should be performed in patients suspected of having pulmonary infiltrates from endemic areas irrespective of peripheral blood eosinophil counts.
Kant, curves and medical learning practice: a reply to Le Morvan and Stock
Authors: Ives J
Published: February 2007

In a recent paper published in theJournal of Medical Ethics, Le Morvan and Stock claim that the kantian ideal of treating people always as ends in themselves and never merely as a means is in direct and insurmountable conflict with the current medical practice of allowing practitioners at the bottom of their “learning curve” to “practise their skills” on patients. In this response, I take up the challenge they issue is and try to reconcile this conflict. The kantian ideal offered in the paper is an incomplete characterisation of Kant’s moral philosophy, and the formula of humanity is considered in isolation without taking into account other salient kantian principles. I also suggest that their argument based on “necessary for the patient” assumes too narrow a reading of “necessary”. This reply is intended as an extension to, rather than a criticism of, their work.
Acupuncture: Its Evidence-Base is Changing
Authors: Ernst E. , Pittler M. H. , Wider B. , Boddy K.
Published: February 2007

The effectiveness of acupuncture remains a controversial issue. The aim of this article is to evaluate trends over time in the development of the evidence-base of acupuncture. A comparison of two series of systematic reviews was conducted. The first related to the evidence-base in 2000, the second related to 2005. Both employed virtually the same methodology and criteria for evaluation. The results indicate that the evidence base has increased for 13 of the 26 conditions included in this comparison. For 7 indications it has become more positive (i.e. favoring acupuncture) and for 6 it had changed in the opposite direction. It is concluded, that acupuncture research is active. The emerging clinical evidence seems to imply that acupuncture is effective for some but not all conditions.
Actinidia rubricaulisAttenuates Hepatic Fibrosis Induced by Carbon Tetrachloride in Rats
Authors: Liao Jung-Chun , Lin Kun-Hung , Cheng Hao-Yuan , Wu Jin-Bin , Hsieh Ming-Tsuen , Peng Wen-Huang
Published: February 2007

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the antioxidant activity and hepatoprotective effect of ethanol extracts of Actinidia rubricaulis (AR) on chronic liver injury induced by carbon tetrachloride ( CCl4) in rats. CCl4(20%, 0.5 ml/rat) was given twice a week for 8 weeks, and animals received AR throughout the entire experimental period. AR reduced the elevated levels of serum glutamate-oxalate-transaminase (sGOT) and glutamate-pyruvate-transaminase (sGPT) caused by CCl4at weeks 1,3,6, and 8. The biochemical data were consistent with those of the histological observations. The AR extract recovered the CCl4-induced liver injury and showed antioxidant effect in assays of antioxidant enzyme activity, such as SOD, GSH-Px and GSH-Rd. Based on these results, we suggest that the hepatoprotective effect of the AR is related to its antioxidant activity.
Down-Regulation of Melanin Synthesis and Transfer by Paeonol and Its Mechanisms
Authors: Xie Shi-Hai , Chen Zhi-Qiang , Ma Peng-Cheng
Published: February 2007

Down-regulation of melanin synthesis and\or melanin transfer are\is required for recovery of pigmentary disorders. It is known that direct inhibitors of tyrosinase, the key enzyme in melanin synthesis, such as hydroquinone with a phenol structure, suppress melanin synthesis. We screened some herbal monomers using human melanocytes and found that paeonol, a major phenolic component of Moutan Cortex, down-regulated melanin synthesis. The melanin synthesis and tyrosinase activity were inhibited by paeonol in a dose-dependent manner. The expression levels of tyrosinase mRNA and protein were also reduced by paeonol. We further studied the inhibitory effects of paeonol on melanin transfer in co-culture of melanocytes and keratinocytes. More than 50% of inhibition of melanin transfer was observed at concentration of 200 μM of paeonol and the increased melanin transfer induced by SLIGRL, the PAR-2 activating peptide, was also reduced by paeonol. However, paeonol did not influence the expression level of PAR-2 mRNA in co-culture cells. These results indicate that the depigmenting effect of paeonol might be due to its down-regulation of melanogenesis and melanin transfer.
Antiviral Effects ofSalvia miltiorrhiza(Danshen) Against Enterovirus 71
Authors: Wu Bin-Wen , Pan Tai-Long , Leu Yann-Lii , Chang Yu-Kaung , Tai Pei-Ju , Lin Kwang-Huei , Horng Jim-Tong
Published: February 2007

In this study, the antiviral activities of seven different extracts of Salvia miltiorrhiza (danshen) were determined. The first two extracts, SA1 and SA2, isolated at room temperature by ethyl acetate and water extraction, respectively, neutralized the enterovirus 71-induced cytopathic effect in Vero, rhabdomyosarcoma and MRC-5 cells. The other five crude extracts, extracted with warm water (60–70°C) or organic solvents, did not have any protective activity. The 50% inhibitory concentrations for neutralizing the enterovirus 71-induced cytopathic effect were 0.742 ± 0.042 mg/ml for SA1 and 0.585 ± 0.018 mg/ml for SA2 in Vero cells. No antiviral activity was observed in the other viruses tested. Antiviral activity was more efficient in cultures treated with SA1 or SA2 during viral infection compared to the cultures treated before or after infection, suggesting that these danshen extracts could interfere with viral entry. SA1 and SA2 were able to inhibit viral RNA synthesis in the infected cells and to abate the apoptotic process in enterovirus 71-infected Vero cells. We conclude that danshen extracts possess antiviral activity and have potential for the development as an anti-enterovirus 71 agent.
THEORY OF THE τ LEPTON ANOMALOUS MAGNETIC MOMENT
Authors: EIDELMAN S. , PASSERA M.
Published: February 2007

This paper reviews and updates the Standard Model prediction of the τ lepton g-2. Updated QED and electroweak contributions are presented, together with new values of the leading-order hadronic term, based on the recent low energy e+ e- data from BaBar, CMD-2, KLOE and SND, and hadronic light-by-light contribution. The total prediction is confronted to the available experimental bounds on the τ lepton anomaly, and prospects for its future measurements are briefly discussed.
Downregulation of uncoupling protein-3 in vivo is linked to changes in muscle mitochondrial energy metabolism as a result of capsiate administration
Authors: Faraut B. , Giannesini B. , Matarazzo V. , Marqueste T. , Dalmasso C. , Rougon G. , Cozzone P. J. , Bendahan D.
Published: February 2007

Although it has been suggested that the skeletal muscle mitochondrial uncoupling protein-3 (UCP3) is involved in regulating energy expenditure, its role is still poorly understood. In the present study, we aimed at investigating noninvasively, using magnetic resonance techniques, metabolic changes occurring in exercising muscle as a result of capsiate treatment, which has been previously linked to UCP3 upregulation. We showed that capsiate ingestion strongly reduced UCP3 gene expression in rat gastrocnemius muscle. This large underexpression was accompanied by a significant increase in the rate of mitochondrial ATP production and phosphocreatine level both at rest and during muscle stimulation. Similarly, the stimulation-induced ATP fall and ADP accumulation were significantly less after capsiate administration than in untreated rats. The larger oxidative ATP production rate could not be explained by a proportional decrease in the anaerobic component, i.e., glycolysis and phosphocreatine breakdown. In addition, the mechanical performance was not affected by capsiate administration. Finally, the plasma free fatty acid (FFA) level increased in capsiate-treated rats, whereas no significant change was observed after muscle stimulation in the control group. Considering the corresponding enhanced UCP3 mRNA expression occurring in the control group after muscle stimulation, one can suggest that changes in FFA level and UCP3 mRNA expression are not mechanistically correlated. Overall, we have shown that capsiate administration induced a UCP3 downregulation coupled with an increased mitochondrial ATP synthesis, whereas the muscle force-generating capacity was unchanged. This suggests that a decrease in muscle efficiency and/or additional noncontractile ATP-consuming mechanisms result from UCP3 downregulation.
Protective role for nitric oxide during the endoplasmic reticulum stress response in pancreatic β-cells
Authors: Kitiphongspattana Kajorn , Khan Tarannum A. , Ishii-Schrade Katrin , Roe Michael W. , Philipson Louis H. , Gaskins H. Rex
Published: February 2007

Higher requirements for disulfide bond formation in professional secretory cells may affect intracellular redox homeostasis, particularly during an endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress response. To assess this hypothesis, we investigated the effects of the ER stress response on the major redox couple (GSH/GSSG), endogenous ROS production, expression of genes involved in ER oxidative protein folding, general antioxidant defense, and thiol metabolism by use of the well-validated MIN6 β-cell as a model and mouse islets. The data revealed that glucose concentration-dependent decreases in the GSH/GSSG ratio were further decreased significantly by ER-derived oxidative stress induced by inhibiting ER-associated degradation with the specific proteasome inhibitor lactacystin (10 μM) in mouse islets. Notably, minimal cell death was observed during 12-h treatments. This was likely attributed to the upregulation of genes encoding the rate limiting enzyme for glutathione synthesis (γ-glutamylcysteine ligase), as well as genes involved in antioxidant defense (glutathione peroxidase, peroxiredoxin-1) and ER protein folding ( Grp78/BiP, PDI, Ero1). Gene expression and reporter assays with a NO synthase inhibitor ( Nω-nitro-l-arginine methyl ester, 1–10 mM) indicated that endogenous NO production was essential for the upregulation of several ER stress-responsive genes. Specifically, gel shift analyses demonstrate NO-independent binding of the transcription factor NF-E2-related factor to the antioxidant response element Gclc-ARE4 in MIN6 cells. However, endogenous NO production was necessary for activation of Gclc-ARE4-driven reporter gene expression. Together, these data reveal a distinct protective role for NO during the ER stress response, which helps to dissipate ROS and promote β-cell survival.
Functional CB1 Receptors Are Broadly Expressed in Neocortical GABAergic and Glutamatergic Neurons
Authors: Hill Elisa L. , Gallopin Thierry , Férézou Isabelle , Cauli Bruno , Rossier Jean , Schweitzer Paul , Lambolez Bertrand
Published: February 2007

The cannabinoid receptor CB1 is found in abundance in brain neurons, whereas CB2 is essentially expressed outside the brain. In the neocortex, CB1 is observed predominantly on large cholecystokinin (CCK)-expressing interneurons. However, physiological evidence suggests that functional CB1 are present on other neocortical neuronal types. We investigated the expression of CB1 and CB2 in identified neurons of rat neocortical slices using single-cell RT-PCR. We found that 63% of somatostatin (SST)-expressing and 69% of vasoactive intestinal polypeptide (VIP)-expressing interneurons co-expressed CB1. As much as 49% of pyramidal neurons expressed CB1. In contrast, CB2 was observed in a small proportion of neocortical neurons. We performed whole cell recordings of pyramidal neurons to corroborate our molecular findings. Inhibitory postsynaptic currents (IPSCs) induced by a mixed muscarinic/nicotinic cholinergic agonist showed depolarization-induced suppression of inhibition and were decreased by the CB1 agonist WIN-55212-2 (WIN-2), suggesting that interneurons excited by cholinergic agonists (mainly SST and VIP neurons) possess CB1. IPSCs elicited by a nicotinic receptor agonist were also reduced in the presence of WIN-2, suggesting that neurons excited by nicotinic agonists (mainly VIP neurons) indeed possess CB1. WIN-2 largely decreased excitatory postsynaptic currents evoked by intracortical electrical stimulation, pointing at the presence of CB1 on glutamatergic pyramidal neurons. All WIN-2 effects were strongly reduced by the CB1 antagonist AM 251. We conclude that CB1 is expressed in various neocortical neuronal populations, including glutamatergic neurons. Our combined molecular and physiological data suggest that CB1 widely mediates endocannabinoid effects on glutamatergic and GABAergic transmission to modulate cortical networks.
Extracellular Zinc Protects Against Acidosis-Induced Injury of Cells Expressing Ca
2+
-Permeable Acid-Sensing Ion Channels
Authors: Hey Jessica G. , Chu Xiang-Ping , Seeds Joshua , Simon Roger P. , Xiong Zhi-Gang
Published: February 2007

Acidosis is a common feature of neurological conditions including brain ischemia, epileptic seizures, and neurotrauma. Activation of Ca
2+
-permeable acid-sensing ion channels (ASIC1a) is involved in acidosis-mediated ischemic brain injury. Zn
2+
is a divalent cation concentrated in nerve terminals in various brain regions, and is released into the extracellular space during excitatory stimulation. Our previous studies have demonstrated that the activities of ASIC1a containing channels and acid-induced increased intracellular Ca
2+
concentrations are inhibited dramatically by the physiological concentration of extracellular Zn
2+
. In this report, we demonstrate that decreasing the concentration of the extracellular Zn
2+
significantly enhances acid-induced injury of HEK 293 cells, a cell line expressing homomeric ASIC1a-like channels, whereas increasing the concentration of extracellular Zn
2+
appears to be protective. Although increased concentrations of intracellular Zn
2+
have been shown to be detrimental to neurons, our findings may suggest that the physiological concentration of extracellular Zn
2+
might play a protective role in acidosis-induced, ASIC1a-mediated neuronal injury.
Transient Receptor Potential Channels of the Melastatin Family and Ischemic Responses of Central Neurons
Authors: MacDonald John F. , Jackson Michael F.
Published: February 2007

The excitotoxic theory of stroke, which implicated
N
-methyl-
d
-aspartate (NMDA) receptors as mediators of excessive Ca
2+
entry and neuronal death, generated a great deal of enthusiasm for the prospect of using NMDA receptor antagonists to prevent the associated brain injury. Unfortunately, these receptor antagonists failed to provide effective treatments for human stroke. In part, the failure is likely a consequence of having to administer these drugs within a very short therapeutic window after stroke and to the intolerable psychomimetic side effects associated with their use. However, new possibilities for therapeutic intervention are revealing themselves as our understanding of excitotoxicity evolves. We now recognize that ischemia and Ca
2+
toxicity in central neurons can be attributed to a variety of mechanisms recruited downstream of NMDA receptor activation. These include the activation of Ca
2+
-permeable transient receptor potential channels of the melastatin family. The more-delayed activation of these channels offers the tantalizing possibility that drugs targeting selected members of this family may possess a wider therapeutic window for preventing the debilitating consequences after stroke onset.
Intra-Arterial Thrombolysis for Basilar Artery Thrombosis
Authors: Powers William J.
Published: February 2007

The poor prognosis for recovery of basilar artery thrombosis has led to the adoption at many institutions of intra-arterial thrombolysis as part of clinical care. However, because neither randomized clinical trials nor observational data provide evidence for treatment efficacy and there are substantial risks and costs associated with this procedure, this treatment should only be performed in the context of a randomized, controlled clinical trial subject to appropriate Institutional Review Board review and independent safety monitoring.
Determinants of Coronary Artery and Aortic Calcification in the Old Order Amish
Authors: Post Wendy , Bielak Lawrence F. , Ryan Kathleen A. , Cheng Yu-Ching , Shen Haiqing , Rumberger John A. , Sheedy Patrick F. , Shuldiner Alan R. , Peyser Patricia A. , Mitchell Braxton D.
Published: February 2007

Background—

Coronary artery calcification (CAC) is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease; little is known, however, about thoracic aortic calcification (AC). Our goal was to characterize risk factors for CAC and AC and to estimate the genetic contribution to their variation.

Methods and Results—

The presence and quantity of CAC and AC were measured with electron beam computed tomography and fasting blood tests and cardiovascular risk factors were obtained in 614 asymptomatic Amish subjects. CAC prevalence was higher in men than women (55% versus 41%;
P
<0.0001), although there was no sex difference in AC prevalence (51% and 56% in men and women, respectively;
P
=0.95). Age was more strongly associated with AC presence (odds ratio [OR], 2.7 for 5 years) than CAC presence (OR, 1.9 for 5 years) (homogeneity
P
=0.001). Subjects with AC had a 3.3-fold higher odds of having CAC. Heritabilities of CAC and AC presence were 0.27±0.17 (
P
=0.04) and 0.55±0.18 (
P
=0.0008), respectively, whereas the heritabilities of quantity of CAC and AC were 0.30±0.10 (
P
=0.001) and 0.40±0.10 (
P
<0.0001), respectively. The genetic correlation between CAC and AC quantity was 0.34±0.19, whereas the environmental correlation between these 2 traits was 0.38±0.09.

Conclusions—

CAC and AC have similar risk factors, except male gender is associated only with CAC and age is more strongly associated with AC. The patterns of correlations suggest that CAC and AC share some common sets of genes and environmental factors, although it is likely that separate genes and environmental factors also influence calcification at each site.
Effect of Functional Health-Related Quality of Life on Long-Term Survival After Cardiac Surgery
Authors: Koch Colleen Gorman , Li Liang , Lauer Michael , Sabik Joseph , Starr Norman J. , Blackstone Eugene H.
Published: February 2007

Background—

Health-related quality-of-life instruments have become important measures of early health outcomes after cardiac surgery. The relationship between quality of life after recovery from surgery and subsequent long-term survival has not previously been explored. Our objective was to determine whether the Duke Activity Status Index (DASI) was predictive of subsequent time-related survival after recovery from cardiac surgery.

Methods and Results—

We examined survival status among 6305 patients who underwent isolated coronary artery bypass grafting with or without valve procedures or isolated valve procedure between May 1995 and June 1998 who had a preoperative baseline and follow-up DASI. The postoperative DASI was administered nominally at 6 and 12 months. Baseline and perioperative variables and postoperative morbid events were prospectively collected concurrently with patient care. The end point was all-cause mortality. The Social Security Death Index was queried for survival status. Cox proportional-hazards analysis was used to study the associations between DASI, a number of traditional risk factors, and survival. Median follow-up was 8.6 years. The “dose-response” relationship between baseline and follow-up DASI and risk of long-term death was established. Follow-up DASI was associated with risk-adjusted long-term survival hazard ratio of 0.98 per unit increase (confidence limits, 0.97 to 0.98;
P
<0.0001). Achieving maximum baseline DASI was associated with better risk-adjusted long-term survival (hazard ratio, 0.64; confidence limits, 0.50 to 0.83;
P
=0.0005).

Conclusions—

Poor health-related quality of life after recovery from cardiac surgery identifies patients who are at risk for reduced long-term survival.
Surgical Experience Correlates with Performance on a Virtual Reality Simulator for Shoulder Arthroscopy
Authors: Gomoll Andreas H. , O'Toole Robert V. , Czarnecki Joseph , Warner Jon J. P.
Published: February 2007

Background

The traditional process of surgical education is being increasingly challenged by economic constraints and concerns about patient safety. Sophisticated computer-based devices have become available to simulate the surgical experience in a protected environment. As with any new educational tool, these devices have generated controversy about the validity of the training experience.

Hypothesis

Performance on a virtual reality simulator correlates with actual surgical experience.

Study Design

Controlled laboratory study.

Methods

Forty-three test subjects of various experience levels in shoulder arthroscopy were tested on an arthroscopy simulator according to a standardized protocol. Subjects were evaluated for time to completion, distance traveled with the tip of the simulated probe compared with a computer-determined optimal distance, average probe velocity, and number of probe collisions with the tissues.

Results

Subjects were grouped according to prior experience with shoulder arthroscopy. Comparing the least experienced with most experienced groups, the average time to completion decreased by 62% from 128.8 seconds to 49.2 seconds; path length and hook collisions were more than halved from 8.2 to 3.8 and 34.1 to 16.8, respectively; and average probe velocity more than doubled from 0.18 to 0.4 cm/second. There were no significant differences for any parameter tested between subjects with video game experience compared to those without.

Conclusions

The study demonstrated a close and statistically significant correlation between simulator results and surgical experience, thus confirming the hypothesis. Conversely, experience with video games was not associated with improved simulator performance. This indicates that the skill set tested may be similar to the one developed in the operating room, thus suggesting its use as a potential tool for future evaluation of surgical trainees.

Clinical Relevance

The results have implications for the future of orthopaedic surgical training programs, the majority of which have not embraced virtual reality technology for physician education.
Improvement through collaboration and competition - can the government have it both ways?
Authors: Stevenson Howard
Published: February 2007

This paper briefly explores the experience of three schools working together as part of a Leading Edge Partnership with a sharp focus on the factors that appeared to help and hinder their collaborative working. The paper draws on an evaluation of the first year of the partnership undertaken by colleagues at the University of Leicester, in which interviews were conducted with a number of key participants in each school. The research highlighted some significant benefits and difficulties for all the partner schools and spotlights the extent to which policies based on both collaboration and competition can cohabit.
Managing health and safety on international school trips
Authors: Hunter-Jones John , Hunter-Jones Philippa
Published: February 2007

Organising international school trips can be a demanding experience because of the age of the participants, the unfamiliar surroundings and the excitement associated with the foreign trip. As many organisers are full-time teachers, without a background in the travel sector, the pressures can be even greater. The need to anticipate potential risks to the health and safety of pupils and comply with the law can be one of the more difficult aspects of the organisation. Many of these risks and legal demands are often present in the organisation of international travel by tour operators. Drawing upon the wider travel scene, this paper outlines the potential risks attached to international school trip participation, suggests measures to reduce such risks, details the legal framework for schools in England and Wales and indicates a range of information sources available to the trip organiser.