bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
RABBIT EARS is a second‐whorl repressor of AGAMOUS that maintains spatial boundaries in Arabidopsis flowers
Authors: Krizek Beth A. , Lewis Michael W. , Fletcher Jennifer C.
Published: January 2006

The RABBIT EARS (RBE) gene has been identified as a regulator of petal development in Arabidopsis thaliana. We find that second‐whorl petals in rbe mutants can be replaced with staminoid organs, stamens or filaments and that some rbe flowers have increased numbers of sepals and exhibit fusion of sepals. We show that these rbe defects are due to AGAMOUS (AG) misexpression in the second whorl. Consistent with its role in maintaining the spatial boundary of AG expression, rbe enhanced the second‐whorl defects present in ap2‐1, lug‐1 and clf‐2 mutants. In the development of second‐whorl organs, RBE acts in the same pathway and downstream of UNUSUAL FLORAL ORGANS (UFO). Enhanced first‐whorl organ fusion in ap2‐2 rbe‐3, ant‐4 rbe‐3 and cuc2‐1 rbe‐3 double mutants supports an additional role for RBE in organ separation. RBE thus acts to maintain two different types of spatial boundaries in young flowers: boundaries between organ primordia within a whorl and boundaries of homeotic gene expression between whorls.
A universal algorithm for genome‐wide in silicio identification of biologically significant gene promoter putative cis‐regulatory‐elements; identification of new elements for reactive oxygen species and sucrose signaling in Arabidopsis
Authors: Geisler Matt , Kleczkowski Leszek A. , Karpinski Stanislaw
Published: January 2006

Short motifs of many cis‐regulatory elements (CREs) can be found in the promoters of most Arabidopsis genes, and this raises the question of how their presence can confer specific regulation. We developed a universal algorithm to test the biological significance of CREs by first identifying every Arabidopsis gene with a CRE and then statistically correlating the presence or absence of the element with the gene expression profile on multiple DNA microarrays. This algorithm was successfully verified for previously characterized abscisic acid, ethylene, sucrose and drought responsive CREs in Arabidopsis, showing that the presence of these elements indeed correlates with treatment‐specific gene induction. Later, we used standard motif sampling methods to identify 128 putative motifs induced by excess light, reactive oxygen species and sucrose. Our algorithm was able to filter 20 out of 128 novel CREs which significantly correlated with gene induction by either heat, reactive oxygen species and/or sucrose. The position, orientation and sequence specificity of CREs was tested in silicio by analyzing the expression of genes with naturally occurring sequence variations. In three novel CREs the forward orientation correlated with sucrose induction and the reverse orientation with sucrose suppression. The functionality of the predicted novel CREs was experimentally confirmed using Arabidopsis cell‐suspension cultures transformed with short promoter fragments or artificial promoters fused with the GUS reporter gene. Our genome‐wide analysis opens up new possibilities for in silicio verification of the biological significance of newly discovered CREs, and allows for subsequent selection of such CREs for experimental studies.
CTLA‐4 lacking the cytoplasmic domain costimulates IL‐2 production in T‐cell hybridomas
Authors: Hueber Axel J , Matzkies Franziska G , Rahmeh Martina , Manger Bernhard , Kalden Joachim R , Nagel Thomas
Published: January 2006

Optimal T‐cell activation depends on the antigen‐specific signal mediated by the TCR and engagement of costimulatory receptors such as CD28. CTLA‐4, a homologous counterpart of CD28, is considered to be a crucial inhibitory receptor. To test its function separately from CD28 in an antigen‐driven and ligand‐specific model, we stably transfected the T‐cell hybridomas A1.1 and DO11.10, which lack significant endogenous CD28 or CTLA‐4 expression, with wild‐type CTLA‐4 (CTLA‐4 WT) and a construct lacking the cytoplasmic tail (tailless [TL]). Functional studies were carried out by co‐incubation with APC expressing the B7 ligands for CTLA‐4 and appropriate MHC molecules loaded with their cognate antigens. IL‐2 production on costimulation of CTLA‐4WT and TCR did not differ significantly from untransfected controls. However, coligation of TCR and CTLA‐4TL resulted in a vigorous IL‐2 response specific for the interaction of CTLA‐4 with B7. Thus, lack of the cytoplasmic tail converted CTLA‐4 into a costimulatory receptor. This indicates that the CTLA‐4 inhibitory function may not be attributable to sequestration of the common B7 ligands when competing with CD28. Rather, ligation of B7 by the CTLA‐4 extracellular domain can enhance TCR activation, whereas in the full‐length receptor, inhibitory signals mediated by the cytoplasmic domain may override this activation.
Addressing the mysteries of perforin function
Authors: Voskoboinik Ilia , Trapani Joseph A
Published: January 2006

Perforin is a cytolytic protein stored in secretory granules of CTL and NK cells. It synergizes with proapoptotic serine proteases, granzymes, to deliver the lethal hit to virus‐infected or transformed target cells. The mechanism of perforin action has not been described beyond its original characterization in the 1980s, and its role in human disease has remained elusive. This article addresses recent key advances in genetic, clinical and biochemical studies that have reignited the current interest in perforin biology.
Insights into the mechanisms of CMV‐mediated interference with cellular apoptosis
Authors: Andoniou Christopher E , Degli‐Esposti Mariapia A
Published: January 2006

Apoptosis has the potential to function as a defence mechanism during viral infection. Identification of CMV mutants that cause the apoptotic death of infected cells confirmed that viral infection activates apoptotic pathways and that this process is counteracted by CMV to ensure efficient viral replication. The recent identification of CMV‐encoded proteins that suppress cell death has greatly enhanced our understanding of the mechanisms used by this family of viruses to prevent apoptosis. CMV do not encode homologues of known death‐suppressing proteins, suggesting that the CMV family has evolved novel, more sophisticated strategies for the inhibition of apoptosis. The identification and characterization of the human CMV (HCMV)‐encoded antiapoptotic proteins UL36 (viral inhibitor of caspase‐8 activation [vICA]) and UL37 (viral mitochondria‐localized inhibitor of apoptosis [vMIA]) have confirmed that CMV target unique apoptotic control points. For example, vMIA inhibits apoptosis by binding Bax and sequestering it at the mitochondrial membrane as an inactive oligomer. This knowledge not only provides a more complete understanding of the CMV replication process but also allows the identification of previously unrecognized apoptotic checkpoints. Because HCMV is an important cause of birth defects and an increasingly important opportunistic pathogen, a firm grasp of the mechanisms by which it affects cellular apoptosis may provide avenues for the design of improved therapeutic strategies. Here, we review the recent progress made in understanding the role of CMV‐encoded proteins in the inhibition of apoptosis.
TNF‐related apoptosis‐inducing ligand as a therapeutic agent in autoimmunity and cancer
Authors: Cretney Erika , Shanker Anil , Yagita Hideo , Smyth Mark J , Sayers Thomas J
Published: January 2006

Recombinant, soluble TNF‐related apoptosis‐inducing ligand (TRAIL) is currently being developed as a promising natural immune molecule for trial in cancer patients because it selectively induces apoptosis in transformed or stressed cells but not in most normal cells. In cancer patients, phase 1 and 2 clinical trials using agonistic mAbs that engage the human TRAIL receptors DR4 and DR5 have also provided encouraging results. It is now evident that TRAIL suppresses autoimmune disease in various experimental animal models, suggesting that the therapeutic value of recombinant TRAIL and agonistic DR4 and DR5 mAbs might also extend to the suppression of autoimmune disease. This review provides an insight into our current understanding of the role(s) of TRAIL in disease, with a specific focus on cancer and autoimmunity. We also emphasize biological agents and drugs that sensitize tumour cells to TRAIL‐mediated apoptosis and discuss the potential molecular basis for their sensitization.
Compartmentalization in T‐cell signalling: Membrane microdomains and polarity orchestrate signalling and morphology
Authors: Russell Sarah , Oliaro Jane
Published: January 2006

Lymphocyte function is regulated by complex signalling responses to diverse extracellular inputs, and a cell will often receive multiple, conflicting signals at one time. The mechanisms by which a lymphocyte integrates these signals into a single cellular response are not well understood. An important factor in the integration of signals likely involves the regulation of access of signalling molecules to cell surface receptors and of receptor signals to morphological determinants within the cell. Recent studies have led to important advances in our understanding of both the mechanisms by which signals are compartmentalized in T cells and the physiological role played by such compartmentalization. We review progress in the field, with a particular focus on membrane microdomains or lipid rafts and on cell polarity.
Multidimensional structures of comprehensive accessibility of community support for people with mental disorders in Japan: A nationwide investigation
Authors: Morita Takae , Yamazaki Hideo
Published: January 2006

The purpose of this study was to define the concept of comprehensive accessibility of community support for people with mental disorders and to clarify the multidimensional structures of comprehensive accessibility. We developed a self‐administered questionnaire consisting of 47 items. A complete list of the municipalities in Japan was prepared, and the questionnaire was mailed to 3310 municipalities. Principal component analyses were applied to valid data in order to analyse the index and multidimensional structures of comprehensive accessibility. As a result, 14 principal components of community support for people with mental disorders were extracted. These principal components were interpreted as the scales for the evaluation of comprehensive accessibility. The two first principal component scores were interpreted as the index indicating the level of comprehensive accessibility. The other 12 principal components were interpreted as the scales constituting the multidimensional space of comprehensive accessibility.
Putting the evidence into practice: The King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre experience
Authors: Robertson‐Malt Suzi , Chapman Ysanne , Ingram Gillian
Published: January 2006

For more than a decade, evidence‐based practice has become the desired aim behind organized health care. Although a plethora of reasons exist as to why clinicians are reluctant to adopt research‐based findings, the fundamentals relate to management of change and the nature of the individuals involved. Large organizations, with their daily routines and operations, are inherently difficult to change. Hence, one has to use the very structures that drive the organization to effect ‘sustained’ change. In large tertiary care facilities, such as the King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre, these structures are policies and procedures. This paper provides details of the process developed by the Nursing Affairs Practice Committee of the King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre to achieve the committee mandate of: ‘Establish and implement an evidence‐based process for the systematic review and revision of nursing clinical standards, policies, procedures and protocols’.
A cross‐sectional survey of calcium intake in relation to knowledge of osteoporosis and beliefs in young adult women
Authors: Chang Shu‐Fang
Published: January 2006

This investigation found that young adult women (n = 265) were very likely (80.6%) to have accurate knowledge about osteoporosis but also typically had a low calcium intake (454 mg/day). The women in this study believed that they were at risk of osteoporosis but felt that prevention was difficult. Meanwhile, they held the opinion that osteoporosis is not serious and that taking preventative measures would not be worthwhile. The factors that most strongly affected the intake of calcium by women were, in order, knowledge, number of children, self‐rated health score, Body Mass Index, graduation from high school, experience of bone density examination and family history. These seven items accounted for 31.8% of the variation in calcium intake.
‘They first killed his heart (then) he took his own life’. Part 2: Practice implications
Authors: Procter Nicholas G
Published: January 2006

This paper is the second in a two‐part series dedicated to mental health needs of refugees and asylum seekers. Against a background of selective review of literature and context in paper 1, this paper describes practical steps in meeting the mental health needs of refugees and asylum seekers. Nurses see refugees and asylum seekers at the very point of their distress—often outside of or external to immigration detention facilities. Practical strategies are presented for the generation of trust and supportive counselling with implications drawn for nurses working across a range of practice settings, such as in accident and emergency departments, psychiatric clinics, community‐health centres and as general practice nurses. Continuity and integration of mental health care is achieved by bridging discrete elements in the asylum seeker journey through legal reviews, news from home and ongoing psychosocial stressors, in the context of different episodes, interventions by different providers or changes in illness status. Also important will be actions that build resilience intrinsically over time, such as the asylum seeker's values, sustained supportive interpersonal relationships and therapeutic care plans.
Self‐expanding metallic stents in the treatment of benign colorectal disease: indications and outcomes
Authors: Forshaw M. J. , Sankararajah D. , Stewart M. , Parker M. C.
Published: January 2006

Objective  The use of stents for benign colorectal obstruction is considered controversial because of a lack of data and perceived high failure and complication rates. The aim of this study was to evaluate the indications and outcomes following stent placement for benign colorectal disease in a UK district general hospital and to review the published literature.

Patients and methods  Between 1997 and 2004, 11 of 90 attempted stent insertions were performed for benign colorectal disease (diverticular disease, 4; anastomotic strictures, 4; idiopathic rectal stricture, 1; rectal endometriosis, 1; caecal volvulus, 1). Complications and outcomes were analysed from a prospective database.

Results  Stent insertion was successful in nine patients. Early complications occurred in two patients (both with diverticular disease): one patient failed to decompress and needed a colostomy and laparotomy was performed in a second patient who developed peritonitis after five days although no stent perforation of the bowel was identified. Two patients were successfully decompressed and underwent subsequent elective surgery with full bowel preparation. Stent placement resulted in symptomatic improvement in three out of four patients with anastomotic strictures (allowing closure of defunctioning stomas) and in the one patient with an idiopathic rectal stricture. Stent migration occurred in two of these patients without recurrence of symptoms. Stent fracture occurred in one patient, who remained symptomatic.

Conclusions  Self‐expanding metallic stents are an effective treatment for benign colorectal obstructions, especially anastomotic strictures with long‐term patency. Stents should be avoided in acute diverticular disease because of a higher incidence of complications.
Mortality after acute surgery for complications of diverticular disease of the sigmoid colon is almost exclusively due to patient related factors
Authors: Oomen J. L. T. , Engel A. F. , Cuesta M. A.
Published: January 2006

Objective  Auditing the outcome of surgery for complicated diverticulitis of the sigmoid colon is difficult. A comparison of studies is hardly possible because risk factors both in terms of the severity of diverticulitis and patient‐related risk factors are neither well described nor standardized. The purpose of this study was to define morbidity and mortality of primary surgery for acute complications of diverticular disease of the sigmoid colon and to identify the relation between risk factors and morbidity and mortality.

Methods  In a prospective computerized morbidity and mortality registration from 1990 to 2002, 114 patients, who underwent surgery on an acute or urgent base for acute complications of diverticular disease of the sigmoid colon, were identified. In all patients the POSSUM score was calculated. To audit mortality rates a POSSUM based scoring system was introduced.

Results  Mortality was 16.7%, and morbidity 71.1%. Higher morbidity rates were significantly related to a higher POSSUM physiological score (P = 0.012) and to older age (P < 0.001). Higher mortality rates also were significantly related to a higher POSSUM physiological score (P < 0.001) and older age (P = 0.003). Patients who died had significantly more sepsis (P < 0.001), multiple organ failure (P = 0.027), cardiac (P < 0.001) and pulmonary (P = 0.013) complications. Gender, operation indication and type of neither surgery nor surgeon had a significant relation with morbidity or mortality.

Conclusion  Surgery for acute complications of diverticular disease of the sigmoid colon carries a high morbidity rate and a substantial mortality rate. The majority of deceased patients had severe comorbidity. Post‐operative mortality and morbidity are to a large extent driven by patient related factors. Elevated physiological severity scores and a lack of peri‐operative management failures express this in the majority of deceased patients.
Reducing surgical outpatient waiting is not the solution to meeting the 2005 colorectal cancer target
Authors: Rao G. N. , Basnyat P. , Taffinder N. , Hudson C. , Insall R.
Published: January 2006

Objectives  The majority of colorectal cancers (CRC) are not diagnosed through the Rapid access route (RAR) and follow‐ups (FU) may prolong outpatient‐waiting time for new referrals. The aim of this study was to assess the relative contributions of an efficient colorectal clinic and a stringent colonoscopy booking system on the total journey time for CRC.

Patients and methods  We reduced the number of follow‐up appointments with the introduction of ‘Paper clinics’. The composition of the new clinic was determined by the known cancer yield through RAR and non‐RAR route. A prospective analysis of clinics and CRC journey times was undertaken from November 2003 for 13 months, with the new outpatient clinic template introduced in December 2003. This coincided with a stringent policy on referral pattern for colonoscopy.

Results  In our hospital, only 4% of RAR yield CRC. Seventy‐five percent of our CRC are referred through the non‐RAR route. Eighty‐one percent of follow‐ups in a ‘paper clinic’ were discharged. A flexible template for the outpatient clinics, introduced a corresponding reduction in follow‐up and increased urgent and routine slots. There was a progressive drop in the follow‐up to new ratio and the waiting times for routine and urgent category decreased from a median of 15.9 and 3.4 weeks to 6.7 and 0.7 weeks, respectively (P < 0.001). Average waiting times for all categories fell from 13.35 weeks in November 2003 to 3.5 weeks in December 2004, while the number of patients waiting less than 4 weeks rose from 46% to 71%. This was associated with reduction in total journey times from 93 days to 62 days (P < 0.05). DNA rates remained unaffected.

Conclusion  Modifying outpatient clinic composition with ‘paper clinics’ reduces the waiting time for all referrals to a surgical clinic with a modest effect on CRC clinic waiting time. Reduction in the total waiting time to first treatment (for CRC) is due to reducing the demand on colonoscopy in favour of barium enema. Redirecting the flow of patients towards barium enema is perhaps one way of improving the existing CRC journey time to first treatment, within existing resources. Achieving the 62 day target for cancer journey time will be difficult unless traditional surgical clinic habits are challenged.
A comparison of segmental vs subtotal/total colectomy for colonic Crohn's disease: a meta‐analysis
Authors: Tekkis P. P. , Purkayastha S. , Lanitis S. , Athanasiou T. , Heriot A. G. , Orchard T. R. , Nicholls R. J. , Darzi A. W.
Published: January 2006

Objective  Using meta‐analytical techniques the present study evaluated differences in short‐term and long‐term outcomes of adult patients with colonic Crohn's disease who underwent either colectomy with ileorectal anastomosis (IRA) or segmental colectomy (SC).

Methods  Comparative studies published between 1988 and 2002, of subtotal/total colectomy and ileorectal anastomosis vs segmental colectomy, were used. The study end points included were surgical and overall recurrence, time to recurrence, postoperative morbidity and incidence of permanent stoma. Random and fixed‐effect meta‐analytical models were used to evaluate the study outcomes. Sensitivity analysis, funnel plot and meta‐regressive techniques were carried out to explain the heterogeneity and selection bias between the studies.

Results  Six studies, consisting of a total of 488 patients (223 IRA and 265 SC) were included. Analysis of the data suggested that there was no significant difference between IRA and SC in recurrence of Crohn's disease. Time to recurrence was longer in the IRA group by 4.4 years (95% CI: 3.1–5.8), P < 0.001. There was no difference between the incidence of postoperative complications (OR = 1.4., 95% CI 0.16–12.74) or the need for a permanent stoma between the two groups (OR = 2.75, 95% CI 0.78–9.71). Patients with two or more colonic segments involved were associated with lower re‐operation rate in the IRA group, a difference which did not reach statistical significance (P = 0.177).

Conclusions  Both procedures were equally effective as treatment options for colonic Crohn's disease however, patients in the SC group exhibited recurrence earlier than those in the IRA group. The choice of operation is dependent on the extent of colonic disease, with a trend towards better outcomes with IRA for two or more colonic segments involved. Since no prospective randomised study has been undertaken, a clear view about which approach is more suitable for localised colonic Crohn's disease cannot be obtained.
Salvage abdominoperineal resection after failed Nigro protocol: modest success, major morbidity
Authors: Papaconstantinou H. T. , Bullard K. M. , Rothenberger D. A. , Madoff R. D.
Published: January 2006

Objective  Chemotherapy and radiation (C‐XRT) is the first‐line therapy for epidermoid carcinomas of the anal canal (ECAC). Treatment failure occurs in up to 33% of patients. Salvage‐abdominoperineal resection (APR) is the treatment of choice for locoregional failure but pre‐operative radiation may increase wound complications. The purpose of this study was to evaluate patient survival and wound complications after salvage‐APR for C‐XRT failure.

Methods  We reviewed the clinical records of all patients who failed initial C‐XRT for ECAC diagnosed between 1992 and 2002. We evaluated patient demographics, treatment, tumour characteristics, survival and postoperative complications.

Results  Nineteen patients were identified. The mean age at diagnosis was 55 years. Eight (42%) patients had persistent disease; 11 (58%) had tumour recurrence. APR was performed in 15 patients. Perineal wound complications occurred in 12 (80%) patients; half were major complications. Primary flap reconstruction at time of APR was performed in 5 (33%) patients; 2 experienced major wound complications. Overall‐survival after salvage APR was 40% (6/15) and disease‐free survival was 47% (7/15) at a median follow‐up of 14 months (range 2–95 months). Recurrence after salvage‐APR occurred in 7 (47%) patients at a median follow‐up of 5 months (range 3–19 months). Kaplan‐Meier survival analysis showed an advantage for recurrent over persistent disease with 2‐year and 5‐year survival rates of 75%vs 34% and 28%vs 0%, respectively.

Conclusions  Failure of C‐XRT for ECAC is associated with a poor prognosis. Although salvage APR may be curative in some patients, perineal wound complications are frequent and primary flap reconstruction is not reliable.
Stapled haemorrhoidopexy in fourth degree haemorrhoidal prolapse: is it worthwhile?
Authors: Finco C. , Sarzo G. , Savastano S. , Degregori S. , Merigliano S.
Published: January 2006

Introduction  Ten years after the introduction of stapled haemorrhoidopexy few studies have stratified patients by degree of haemorrhoidal disease when analysing results.

Objective  The aim of this study was prospectively to evaluate 116 patients who underwent stapled anopexy conducted by the same surgeon for III or IV degree haemorrhoidal prolapse.

Materials and methods  One hundred and sixteen consecutive patients affected by symptomatic haemorrhoids of III or IV degree underwent stapled anopexy using the technique described by Longo in the period January 2001 to October 2003. Mean follow‐up was 28.1 months. Fischer's exact test was used for statistical analysis. Results, in terms of morbidity and recurrence rates, were stratified according to degree of haemorrhoidal disease.

Results  There was no statistically significant difference between the results for third degree compared with fourth degree prolapse although there was a trend towards increased incidence of postoperative bleeding and recurrence.

Conclusion  Third degree haemorrhoidal prolapse remains the best indication for stapled haemorrhoidopexy. This procedure may also be indicated in fourth degree haemorrhoidal prolapse. Patients with fourth degree haemorrhoids may be subjected to this procedure following adequate discussion of the outcome.
Corporate Social Responsibility: Strategic Implications*
Authors: McWilliams Abagail , Siegel Donald S. , Wright Patrick M.
Published: January 2006

abstract  We describe a variety of perspectives on corporate social responsibility (CSR), which we use to develop a framework for consideration of the strategic implications of CSR. Based on this framework, we propose an agenda for additional theoretical and empirical research on CSR. We then review the papers in this special issue and relate them to the proposed agenda.
A General Dynamic Capability: Does it Propagate BusinessandSocial Competencies in the Retail Food Industry?*
Authors: Marcus Alfred A. , Anderson Marc H.
Published: January 2006

abstract Given that firms have both business and social goals, an important unanswered question is whether a general dynamic capability breeds competencies in both these areas. In studies of the US retail food industry, we find that while a general dynamic capability affects firms’ competence in supply chain management (a business competency), it does not affect their competence in environmental management (a social competency). Firm mission and the extent to which firms obtain technical assistance are found to affect the acquisition of this latter competency. These findings offer insights into the resource‐based view (RBV) of the firm and provide lessons for corporate social responsibility. They reveal more precisely what a general dynamic capability yields and how far its reach extends, suggesting that the factors that drive competitive advantage are not the same as those that drive social responsibility.
Gaining leverage effects from knowledge modes within corporate incubators
Authors: Becker Barbara , Gassmann Oliver
Published: January 2006

This paper analyzes the kind of knowledge that facilitates hatching and leveraging of technologies through the incubation process. Four corporate incubator types can be distinguished according to their source and type of technology: fast‐profit incubators, market incubators, leveraging incubators, and in‐sourcing incubators. Applying the knowledge‐based view of the firm, four modes of mainly tacit knowledge were identified in respect to the different incubator types: (1) entrepreneurial knowledge, (2) organizational knowledge, (3) technological knowledge, and (4) complementary market knowledge. Knowledge strategies include both the leveraging of internal knowledge as well as the in‐sourcing of external knowledge for the firm through the corporate incubator. The research is based on an analysis of a European Commission dataset from a benchmarking survey of 77 incubators as well as 52 interviews in 25 large technology‐driven corporations in Europe and the United States.
Characteristics of technical visionaries as perceived by American and British industrial physicists
Authors: Vojak Bruce A. , Griffin Abbie , Price Raymond L. , Perlov Konstantin
Published: January 2006

This research explores which characteristics most frequently appear in industrial technical visionaries and which are perceived as being the most important contributors to their success. Industrial technical visionaries are defined as ‘technical individuals who effectively synthesize multiple technologies and business strategy to identify new and innovative breakthrough products and processes’. The perceptions of a total of 418 American and British industrial physicists were evaluated for this study to produce the first descriptive analysis of these key individuals based on a large‐scale investigation. The research provides a profile of technical visionary characteristics that can be employed in identifying those with the potential for contributing in this role.

In addition to their recognized depth and breadth of technical expertise, technical visionaries are, first and foremost, emotionally involved, energetic, stubborn in pursuing objectives and interpersonally capable. They are a self‐motivated driving force in a firm, not just the source of technical insight. These individuals' knowledge of, and ability to navigate, the business world is perceived as more important to their success than most of their technical skills, other than technical depth. Finally, the traits associated with technical visionaries' ‘idealist’ nature are perceived as important, indicating that this characteristic should not be overlooked as defining who these individuals are.
Coordinating supplier involvement in product development projects: a differentiated coordination typology
Authors: Lakemond Nicolette , Berggren Christian , van Weele Arjan
Published: January 2006

Supplier involvement in product development has been a widely discussed theme in recent years. Sometimes, one ‘best method’ for involvement, derived from studies of one particular industrial context, has been suggested. In this article, however, various forms for coordinating such involvement are distinguished, based on a study of six different product development projects. Three main approaches are formulated and discussed: project integration coordination, disconnected sub‐project coordination, and ad hoc coordination. Based on the empirical study and the literature, the drivers of different types of supplier coordination are discussed. Several managerial implications are suggested related to the need to differentiate inter‐organizational coordination, not only from project to project but also throughout a project. The importance of taking into account short‐term, project‐based drivers as well as long‐term strategic objectives of supplier coordination is also discussed.
Global network configuration for innovation: a study of international fibre innovation
Authors: Perks Helen , Jeffery Richard
Published: January 2006

This paper develops and empirically investigates the notion of network configuration for innovation. In many industries, firms are increasingly locked into a state of network innovation. Innovation, in such contexts, is often driven by those firms who configure the network to access and control critical innovation knowledge widely dispersed throughout the network. The paper presents the findings of an in‐depth study of the evolution of three innovation networks in the global fibre industry. The mechanisms by which firms configure extended networks throughout the innovation processes are unravelled and discussed. A typology of three configuration types derived from the finding is forwarded. The findings suggest that successful innovation network configuration involves recognising where the innovation value resides in the network and developing capabilities and mechanisms to understand and access such value. However, this is problematic for firms embedded in their own base of knowledge and patterns of relationships. Specific managerial implications and suggestions for future research are forwarded.
Knowledge sharing mechanisms in industrial research
Authors: Berends Hans , van der Bij Hans , Debackere Koenraad , Weggeman Mathieu
Published: January 2006

Previous research has firmly established the importance of knowledge sharing in Research and Development (R&D) settings. However, current theories provide only fragmented insights into the origination of knowledge sharing, and thus offer limited guidance for knowledge management practices in R&D. To integrate and extend these fragmented insights, we undertook two exploratory field studies of knowledge sharing in industrial research organizations. The contributions of this study are the following. First, we introduce three dimensions that differentiate origination mechanisms for knowledge sharing. Second, we show that some of these mechanisms correspond to mechanisms assumed in particular streams of literature, whereas others have been neglected till now. Third, based on our field studies, we show that each of these knowledge‐sharing mechanisms have a different value for industrial research practices. Therefore, knowledge management in R&D should facilitate and stimulate a broad portfolio of knowledge‐sharing mechanisms.
Minimumα‐divergence estimation for arch models
Authors: Chandra S. Ajay , Taniguchi Masanobu
Published: January 2006

Abstract. This paper considers a minimumα‐divergence estimation for a class of ARCH(p) models. For these models with unknown volatility parameters, the exact form of the innovation density is supposed to be unknown in detail but is thought to be close to members of some parametric family. To approximate such a density, we first construct an estimator for the unknown volatility parameters using the conditional least squares estimator given by Tjøstheim [Stochastic processes and their applications (1986) Vol. 21, pp. 251–273]. Then, a nonparametric kernel density estimator is constructed for the innovation density based on the estimated residuals. Using techniques of the minimum Hellinger distance estimation for stochastic models and residual empirical process from an ARCH(p) model given by Beran [Annals of Statistics (1977) Vol. 5, pp. 445–463] and Lee and Taniguchi [Statistica Sinica (2005) Vol. 15, pp. 215–234] respectively, it is shown that the proposed estimator is consistent and asymptotically normal. Moreover, a robustness measure for the score of the estimator is introduced. The asymptotic efficiency and robustness of the estimator are illustrated by simulations. The proposed estimator is also applied to daily stock returns of Dell Corporation.
Uniform Limit Theory for Stationary Autoregression
Authors: Giraitis Liudas , Phillips Peter C. B.
Published: January 2006

Abstract.  First order autoregression is shown to satisfy a limit theory which is uniform over stationary values of the autoregressive coefficient ρ = ρn  ∈  [0, 1) provided (1 − ρn)n → ∞. This extends existing Gaussian limit theory by allowing for values of stationary ρ that include neighbourhoods of unity provided they are wider than O(n−1), even by a slowly varying factor. Rates of convergence depend on ρ and are at least but less than n. Only second moments are assumed, as in the case of stationary autoregression with fixed ρ.
Estimation in Random Coefficient Autoregressive Models
Authors: Aue Alexander , Horváth Lajos , Steinebach Josef
Published: January 2006

Abstract. We propose the quasi‐maximum likelihood method to estimate the parameters of an RCA(1) process, i.e. a random coefficient autoregressive time series of order 1. The strong consistency and the asymptotic normality of the estimators are derived under optimal conditions.
Sexual Harassment in Small‐Town New Zealand: A Qualitative Study of Three Contrasting Organizations
Authors: Handy Jocelyn
Published: January 2006

This research investigates women's experiences of sexual harassment in three different organizations in the same New Zealand town. Women working at the local meat‐processing plant, a retail store and a local bank were interviewed about their personal experiences of sexual harassment. The interviews revealed that sexual harassment took different forms and was interpreted and responded to differently in each organization. Women at the meatworks were often socially isolated from other women and had few effective strategies for combating the verbal and physical harassment collectively perpetrated by male employees. In contrast, women at the store had a range of collective coping strategies which enabled them to regard harassment from fellow‐workers and customers as an irritant rather than a serious threat. Women at the bank also had various collective coping strategies, but were more constrained by customer service norms in the organization. These findings are discussed in relation to three key themes; firstly, the influence of the local environment on organizational life; secondly, the effects of differing organizational structures and cultures on the expression and interpretation of sexual harassment and thirdly, the effectiveness of the various ‘communities of coping’ which women develop to combat sexual harassment in the workplace.
Some Personal Reflections on Probation Training
Authors: TREADWELL JAMES
Published: January 2006

Abstract: This research draws upon the author's personal experiences and the comments of his former colleagues on their perception of undertaking the Diploma in Probation Studies (DipPS) in the Midlands Region. This relatively recently established qualification, undertaken in order to be eligible to work as a probation officer in England and Wales, has created substantial discourse due to its break with social work traditions. This research was undertaken over a two‐year period and intends to provide ‘consumer’ comment on the training and examines the perceptions of trainee probation officers (TPOs) on the suitability of these training arrangements. The author argues that whilst the intention of the programme was not to create an unquestioning ‘enforcement’ driven mentality, a number of trainees adopted just that. The article suggests that this is due to the tension created by a perceived disparity between the needs of the organisation and the demands of the university amongst the trainee group. This is reinforced by the imbalance in delivery, between the vocational and academic components. The author's view is that the current arrangements are too vocational in practice, and this is likely to continue, given the move towards delivery of the academic component through ‘distance learning’. It argues that the future pre‐qualifying arrangements need to retain a belief in the value of academia and be delivered (at least in part) outside the employment setting.
Sickle Cell Anaemia and Deaths in Custody in the UK and the USA
Authors: DYSON SIMON M. , BOSWELL GWYNETH
Published: January 2006

Abstract: An unexplained death in custody represents an important focal point for public scrutiny of the criminal justice system, especially when excess deaths occur in those of minority ethnic descent. Sickle cell anaemia is a serious inherited blood disorder disproportionately affecting minority ethnic groups. Sickle cell trait is the genetic carrier state and not an illness. The evidence suggests that the treatment of sickle cell in the criminal justice system is twofold. Justice authorities have misused sickle cell trait to explain away ten sudden deaths, often associated with forced restraint, of African‐Caribbean people in custody. Meanwhile, seven deaths have been attributable to lack of provision of health care for those prisoners suffering from the illness sickle cell anaemia.
Rat liver fibrosis regresses better with pegylated interferon α2b and ursodeoxycholic acid treatments than spontaneous recovery
Authors: Tasci IIker , Mas Mehmet R. , Vural Sevil A. , Comert Bilgin , Alcigir Gunay , Serdar Muhittin , Mas Nuket , Isik Ahmet T. , Ates Yuksel
Published: January 2006

Abstract: Background/aims: Fibrosis and cirrhosis are common complications of chronic liver diseases. An imbalance between fibrogenesis and fibrolysis results in scarring of the liver parenchyma. We aimed to investigate the possible antifibrotic effectiveness of a newly modified interferon molecule peginterferon α2b (PEG‐IFNα2b) which has better antiviral activity, and ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA).

Methodology: Liver fibrosis was established on 60 male Sprague Dawley rats with CCl4 in 12 weeks. After cessation of CCl4 Group I was left for spontaneous recovery. Group II was treated with PEG‐IFN 1.5 μg/kg/week, Group III with UDCA 25 mg/kg/day and Group IV with combination of both drugs. All rats were killed at week 16. Histopathologic fibrosis scores, tissue hydroxyproline, TIMP‐1 and MMP‐13 levels were determined. Hepatic stellate cell apoptosis was detected by dual staining with TUNEL technique and anti‐α smooth muscle actin.

Results: Fibrosis scores were lower in Group II, III and IV than Group I (p<0.05 for group I vs. II and III; p<0.01 for group I vs. IV). Tissue hydroxyproline levels were significantly decreased in Group II, III and IV when compared to Group I (p<0.05 for group I vs. II, p<0.01 for group I vs. III and IV). Lower liver TIMP‐1 and higher MMP‐13 levels were measured in Group II, III, and Group IV than Group I (p<0.01 for TIMP‐1 and p<0.01, for MMP). Activated HSC apoptosis was significantly increased in Group II, III and IV when compared to Group I (p<0.01, for all). There was significantly higher apoptosis in Group II than Group III and IV (p<0.01).

Conclusion: Treatment with both PEG‐IFNα2b and UDCA improved CCl4 induced rat liver fibrosis. Significantly higher effects were obtained using these agents in combination.
Discourse Ethics and ‘the Rift of Speechlessness’: The Limits of Argumentation and Possible Future Directions
Authors: Kelly Ute
Published: January 2006

Jürgen Habermas's discourse ethics – and within this framework, particularly the idea of ‘moral discourses’, which focuses on ‘what is good for all’ and is intended as a means of addressing situations where a shared substantive ‘background consensus’ does not exist or has broken down – is premised on the assumption that participants attempt to engage with and persuade each other through reasoned argumentation. Where does this leave (potential) participants with strong religious convictions? In several recent publications, Habermas himself has started to reflect on this question. His reflections are motivated not least by (responses to) 11 September 2001. In this context, Habermas has suggested that those with secular commitments engage in a process of self-reflection about the meaning of secularisation, the losses involved in the questioning of religious world views, and the question of how we might respond to these losses. Yet while these reflections are interesting and suggestive, Habermas's framework, as it stands, cannot easily accommodate his own recognition of the need to overcome what he has called ‘the rift of speechlessness’ that threatens to divide religious and secular discourses. Against this background, I consider elements of William E. Connolly's recent reflections on Neuropolitics as one example of a body of work that suggests possible alternative responses to the challenges Habermas identifies – and as a contribution that deserves to be taken seriously by those interested in the further development of discourse ethics and/or deliberative democracy.
‘Rational’ Theories of Voter Turnout: A Review
Authors: Geys Benny
Published: January 2006

The paradox between an individual's decisions to head to the polls and the absence of strictly rational arguments for this action has intrigued – and troubled – many scholars. The present article surveys various theoretical contributions to resolve this paradox of (not) voting. We assess these approaches based on their ability to explain a number of ‘stylised facts’ with respect to voter turnout. The main conclusion is that straying away from the behavioural assumptions of the Downsian model provides more realistic models and leads to promising predictions as to the individual's decision to head to the polls. Incorporating the role of (social) groups and learning in particular can be regarded as important strides towards understanding the individual's decision to cast a vote.
Politics and Mass Media: A Response to John Street
Authors: Corner John , Robinson Piers
Published: January 2006

This short article is a response to an overview of research on media-political relations written by John Street and published in the Political Studies Review in 2005. The usefulness of the exercise is recognised but issue is taken both with the organising concepts of Street's account and the way he excludes a significant body of research from his assessment, raising questions about his characterisation of the field under scrutiny. A case is made for assessing the tensions and the varieties of work in this broad area by the use of other categories, including the play-off between media-centric and politics-centric accounts, the continuing strand of work informed by critical theory and the sheer variety of the topics upon which researchers have chosen to focus as a way into a broader agenda. The importance of work engaging with issues at an international level is emphasised together with the value of new comparative studies. In conclusion, the state of the area is judged more positively than in Street's assessment. Questions of power are argued to be the principal point at issue in comparing research approaches and the need for further explicitness and clarity here is noted.
Norms and Human Rights in International Relations
Authors: Solomon Ty
Published: January 2006

The three volumes on human rights reviewed here constitute the first wave of in-depth case studies of human rights from a constructivist approach in international relations. By acknowledging the theoretical contributions of these works, identifying their shortcomings and engaging in critiques of the authors’ conceptions of identity and norms, this article provides direction for future studies on human rights through the constructivist framework.