bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Understanding conflict management styles of Thais and Americans in multinational corporations in Thailand
Authors: Boonsathorn Wasita
Published: November 2007

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to examine the preferences for conflict management styles of Thais and Americans in multinational corporations in Thailand. Gender and the length of exposure to other cultures were also taken into account as influences on the preference for conflict management styles. Design/methodology/approach – Quantitative methodology was used. A total of 250 Thais and 64 Americans from 73 multinational companies were asked to complete the questionnaires consisting of conflict management style instrument and a set of demographic information. ANOVAs and Pearson's correlations were used for data analysis. Findings – Thais, compared with Americans, preferred avoiding and obliging conflict management styles and exhibited no differences in preferences for other styles. Males and females did not exhibit differences in preferences for conflict management styles. There was a negative correlation between length of stay abroad for Thais and preference for avoiding and obliging conflict management styles, and a positive correlation between length of stay abroad for Thais and preference for a dominating conflict management style. Research limitations/implications – The language of the instrument, the small number of American female participants, and the positions of the participants may limit the generalization of the findings. Practical implications – The paper presents a very useful source of information for people working in multinational corporations and trainers in the area of intercultural communication. Originality/value – This paper provides new insight into the preference of conflict management styles in a multinational context, the entity in which people from many cultures directly interact (intercultural perspective). The length of exposure to other cultures was also investigated in relation to the preference of conflict management styles.
Conflict management styles as indicators of behavioral pattern in business negotiation
Authors: Ma Zhenzhong
Published: November 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to examine whether conflict management styles are able to predict actual behaviors in business negotiation in two different countries.

Design/methodology/approach

Subjects were recruited from both Canada and China to participate in a laboratory study. Three simulated business negotiations were used for participants to negotiate deals in both countries in order to compare the validity of conflict management styles in predicting negotiation behaviors.

Findings

This study shows that conflict management styles are valid predictors of actual negotiation behaviors in Canada, but not in China. The results also show that Chinese people use a more avoiding approach and demonstrate a higher level of integrativeness during business negotiation simulations, while Canadians use a more compromising approach and show a higher level of distributiveness.

Practical implications

Practical implications of the findings are discussed in terms of the usefulness of self‐reported conflict management styles for negotiation researchers and practitioners in training seminars and in terms of the effectiveness of first offer as one negotiation strategy to achieve better negotiation outcomes.

Originality/value

This study is particularly pertinent, given that the relationship between conflict management styles and actual behaviors in negotiation receives little attention and that even less attention is given to this relationship in a cross‐cultural context.
Evidence on UK directors' compliance with disclosure timing regulations
Authors: Balmforth Brian , Burton Bruce M. , Cross Stuart R. , Power David M.
Published: November 2007

Purpose

This study aims to examine the extent to which UK directors failed to report their share trading in the timeframe required by extant regulations in the run‐up to the changes in insider trading law contained in the Financial Services and Markets Act.

Design/methodology/approach

The study investigates the extent of non‐compliance amongst the 7,461 trades reported to the London Stock Exchange by the directors of UK firms in the year 2000.

Findings

The results indicate that 1,055 (or 14 per cent) of directors' trades were reported late (or with the transaction date absent), with these being concentrated amongst “buy” transactions in both absolute and pro‐rata terms.

Practical implications

The evidence suggests that non‐compliance in the reporting of directors' transactions was common at the time when UK authorities chose to toughen the legal framework governing the conduct of trading based on private price‐sensitive information. Once sufficient time has elapsed, further studies should be able to provide evidence about the iterative impact of the new legal framework by comparing results with the findings of this study.

Originality/value

This is the first study to report a detailed examination of the extent of non‐compliance in the timing of directors' trades in their own equity.
Watching the watch‐dog
Authors: Burger Richard , Dodsworth William
Published: November 2007

Purpose

This paper seeks to consider the first ever report by the National Audit Office (NAO) on the economy, efficiency and effectiveness of the Financial Services Authority (FSA).

Design/methodology/approach

This paper reviews the NAO's report and the FSA's response.

Findings

The paper finds that the majority of the NAO's findings and recommendations have been accepted and incorporated into the FSA's planning.

Originality/value

This paper will be of interest to regulated firms and regulatory and public law lawyers.
Perceptions and perspectives: corporate social responsibility and the media
Authors: Tench Ralph , Bowd Ryan , Jones Brian
Published: November 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this research is to develop understanding of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and the Media. It reports on differing media interpretations, perceptions and perspectives of CSR and how they are prone to shift and change in part depending on the perceived definition and issue(s) discussed.

Design/methodology/approach

The article reports on primary research findings that constitute a baseline study from which intra‐ and inter‐national comparative analysis of CSR and the media might in future studies be progressed. Qualitative and quantitative data are used to gain insight to competing definitions and definitional components of CSR.

Findings

The media view organisations' engagement with CSR through one or more of five possible orientations: Conformist, Cynic, Realist, Optimist and Strategic Idealist. These theoretical constructs are explained and their utility and usefulness as tools of practical analysis explored through application. Despite being open to positive news coverage media reports of CSR issues are largely negative in tone and the tension inherent to the Corporate Social Irresponsibility (CSI) and CSR dualism is alluded to.

Originality/value

Exploring how the media interprets and understands CSR the article will be of interest and relevance to public relations and communication practitioners, policy makers and the academic community. Existing theoretical models, concepts and frameworks have the potential to be further developed and informed by these practice‐based primary research findings. “Real‐world” application has the potential to shape, guide and inform theoretical constructs. The article is set in the context of increasing media interest in CSR and the primary data whilst informing theoretical frameworks also furthers understanding of the concept from academic, business practitioner and stakeholders' perspectives.
Reputation and ethical behaviour in a crisis: predicting survival
Authors: Watson Tom
Published: November 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the interrelation of reputation with corporate performance in a crisis and consider the factors that make up the balance between strong recovery, bare survival and failure. The emphasis is on corporate communication and corporate governance.

Design/methodology/approach

The current debate on reputation and the validity of the term reputation management is reviewed and cases studies from Australia and the UK are examined.

Findings

The paper finds that, in the case studies, poor management, unethical practices, a lack of engagement with customers and other stakeholders, indifferent or aggressive performances by CEOs and lack of preparedness for crisis communication severely or terminally affected the organisations. It identifies a new reputational factor of predictability and considers why some organisations survive a crisis that has strong negative ethical dimensions while others fail.

Originality/value

This paper scrutinises existing concepts of reputation and reputation management and finds that they are not able to predict recovery, survival or failure of organisations. A new definition of reputation is put forward and the factor of predictability is emphasised in proposals for new applied theory.
Style of policing adopted by rural police and deputies
Authors: Pelfrey William V.
Published: November 2007

Purpose– The purpose of this paper is to show that policing research frequently commits two errors: focusing on urban police units and failing to incorporate theory. The current research considers the policing style adopted by officers in a rural setting and tests the utility of Work Redesign, a theory that explains the importance and role of satisfaction with work.Design/methodology/approach– Rural police officers in community policing and traditional motorized patrol assignments were surveyed regarding policing style, the perceived importance of various tasks, and time allocation.Findings– Findings suggest that community policing has a role in rural areas; however, officers generally endorse the practices of traditional motorized patrol uniformly while only community policing officers endorse COP practices.Research limitations/implications– Although generalizing findings derived from several police agencies to other agencies should be done with caution, the findings are potentially important to agency decision makers regarding assignment and implementation of community policing programs.Originality/value– This paper is of interest to those investigating: the impacts of assignment at the officer level, community policing, the influence of job satisfaction on work, and rural law enforcement.
Mobile customer relationship management: an exploratory analysis of Italian applications
Authors: Valsecchi Marta , Renga Filippo Maria , Rangone Andrea
Published: November 2007

Purpose

The paper's aims are to estimate the size of the Italian market for mobile customer relationship management (mCRM) services and to try to evaluate some benefits that can be obtained through the use of mCRM applications by companies.

Design/methodology/approach

The research involved a census of mCRM applications in order to construct a typology of mCRM applications being used and the analysis of some case studies to assess the impact of such applications on the perspective adopted by the company. This second phase involved interviews with managers of the companies.

Findings

In 2005, 1,077 mCRM services were used by 405 companies in Italy. The main benefits found were the improvement of customer satisfaction, an increase in the efficiency of internal processes and an increase in revenue.

Research limitations/implications

The present research considers only Italian services based on data and not on voice. Future research will be required to investigate end‐user needs and wants (which are not treated in this paper) and to make a comparison between the Italian market and other markets.

Practical implications

This research is the first step towards the generation of a systematic study of mCRM applications and their future development. The hope is that other companies could benefit from the use of these kinds of technologies.

Originality/value

The present research focuses upon companies that give a strategic role to their relationship with customers. The results provide a systematic typology of current services for those companies that do not know about opportunities offered by the mobile channel.
Internet vs mobile banking: comparing customer value perceptions
Authors: Laukkanen Tommi
Published: November 2007

Purpose

The aim of the paper is to explore and compare customer value perceptions in internet and mobile banking. The purpose especially is to compare customer perceived value and value creation between internet and mobile bill paying service.

Design/methodology/approach

A qualitative in‐depth interviewing design was applied in order to ascertain the factors that create value perceptions in fund transfer service via personal computer and mobile phone. Means‐end approach and laddering interviewing technique was used in order to reveal how different value creating factors are hierarchically structured and related to each other.

Findings

The results indicate that customer value perceptions in banking actions differ between internet and mobile channels. The findings suggest that efficiency, convenience and safety are salient in determining the differences in customer value perceptions between internet and mobile banking.

Research limitations/implications

The findings of the qualitative study, being more depth than wide in nature, deserve to be quantitatively measured in future studies in order to provide more generalisable results.

Practical implications

The paper provides enhanced information for business managers about both positive and negative customer value perceptions in internet and mobile banking. By understanding how and what kind of value different service channels provide for customers service providers are better enabled to create actions to enhance internet and mobile banking adoption.

Originality/value

The contribution of the paper lies in achieving a more profound understanding on consumer value perceptions to internet and mobile banking. It expands the literature on electronic and mobile commerce and on electronic banking especially.
Contextual perceived value?
Authors: Lee ThaeMin , Jun JongKun
Published: November 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to propose and validate the mobile commerce (MC) consumers' repurchase intention (RPI) model including technology acceptance model (TAM), customer satisfaction (CS), and contextual perceived value (CPV) of marketing offer as a new MC‐specific construct.

Design/methodology/approach

A survey instrument was used to gather data to test the relationships shown in the research model. χ2 difference test was conducted in order to examine the contribution of CPV of marketing offer in explaining MC consumers' RPI. The hypothesized relationships were tested using the structural equation modeling.

Findings

The results of this study reveal that integrating CPV with CS and TAM in a single model can better explain and predict MC consumers' RPI. CPV has a significant effect on RPI, CS and perceived usefulness.

Research limitations/implications

CPV activated by contextual marketing is the key factor for customer relationship management in MC context.

Originality/value

The primary contribution of this study is to integrate CPV of marketing offer with TAM and CS into a coherent and parsimonious model that jointly predicts RPI.
Mobilizing customer relationship management
Authors: Schierholz Ragnar , Kolbe Lutz M. , Brenner Walter
Published: November 2007

Purpose

The bursting of the e‐bubble affected expectations with regard to mobile initiatives and willingness to invest in them very negatively. Business managers request detailed and thorough analyses prior to engaging in mobile initiatives. The paper aims to present a method, with which mobile business can be introduced to the customer relationship management (CRM) field.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper follows the design science paradigm as outlined by March and Smith, and Hevneret al.

Findings

The findings provide a framework for the definition of a mobile CRM strategy derived from the corporate strategy, suggest a method for the identification and exploitation of the mobilization potential in CRM processes in line with the strategy, and provide guidance for the design of mobile information systems to support these processes.

Research limitations/implications

The proposed method extends the body of available methods with a method for the introduction of mobile ISs into marketing, sales and service organizations. As design research, it does not strive for statistical generalization. The level of detail given in the elements of the method is to be increased in further research.

Practical implications

The method helps to reduce risk and uncertainty of mobile CRM initiatives, since it provides a structured and consistent procedure for the definition of goals, the identification of potentials for the fulfillment of these goals as well as recommendations for the systematic exploitation of these potentials.

Originality/value

With the application of this structured method, an organization should be able to avoid the pitfalls of technology‐driven information technology initiatives which various companies have experienced, particularly with mobile technologies.
Impact of increased character sampling on the phylogeny of Cetartiodactyla (Mammalia): combined analysis including fossils
Authors: O'Leary Maureen A. , Gatesy John
Published: November 2007

The phylogenetic position of Cetacea (whales, dolphins and porpoises) is an important exemplar problem for combined data parsimony analyses because the clade is ancient and includes many well‐known and relatively complete fossil species. We combined data for 71 terminal taxa (43 extinct/28 extant) to test where Cetacea fits within Cetartiodactyla, and where various fossil hoofed mammals (e.g., †entelodonts, “†anthracotheriids” and †mesonychians) are positioned. We scored 635 phenotypic characters (osteology, dentition, soft tissue, behavior), approximately three times the number of characters in the last major analysis of this clade, and combined these with > 40 000 molecular characters, including new data from 10 genes. The analysis supported a topology consistent with the majority of recently published molecular studies. Cetacea was the extant sister taxon of Hippopotamidae, followed successively by Ruminantia, Suina and Camelidae. Several extinct taxa were phylogenetically unstable, upsetting resolution of the strict consensus and limiting branch support, but the positions of several key fossils were consistently resolved. The wholly extinct †Mesonychia was more closely related to Cetacea than was any “artiodactylan.”“†Anthracotheriids” were paraphyletic, and, with the exception of one species, were more closely related to Hippopotamidae than to any other living taxon. The total evidence analysis overturned a highly nested position for Moschus supported by molecular data alone. The character partition that could be scored for the fossil taxa (osteological and dental characters) included more informative characters than most molecular partitions in our analysis, and had the fewest missing data. The osteological–dental data alone, however, did not support inclusion of cetaceans within crown “Artiodactyla.” Recently discovered ankle bones from fossil whales reinforced the monophyly of Cetartiodactyla but provided no particular evidence of derived similarities between hippopotamids and fossil cetaceans that were not shared with other “artiodactylans”.

© The Willi Hennig Society 2007.
Calculating SPR distances between trees
Authors: Goloboff Pablo A.
Published: November 2007

The SPR distance between two trees is the minimum number of SPR moves required to convert one tree into the other. It has been proven as an NP‐complete problem. A heuristic to calculate SPR distances between trees is described. It performs favorably when compared with other existing heuristics, RIATA‐HGT and EEEP. Compared with RIATA‐HGT, the new method tends to produce better estimations when the trees are relatively similar, and worse estimations when the trees are very different (e.g., random trees); it produces results rather similar to those of EEEP, but orders of magnitude faster. A measure of tree‐similarity based on SPR distances is proposed, obtained by calculating the minimum number of weighted SPR moves (with moves to closer nodes being less costly). The resulting measure of similarity is symmetric (i.e., Dij = Dji, for any two trees i,j).

© The Willi Hennig Society 2007.
Home range size, spatial distribution and habitat use of elephants in two enclosed game reserves in the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa
Authors: Roux C. , Bernard R. T. F.
Published: November 2007

We studied space use and habitat selection by elephants in two enclosed reserves in the Eastern Cape Province (South Africa) that conserve components of the regionally important and poorly conserved Thicket Biome. Home ranges of bulls and herds occupied most of the reserves, and core areas were significantly smaller and centred on permanent water. There was no significant difference in home range size of bulls and herds and both were significantly smaller in winter than summer. Components of the Thicket Biome occurred in the home ranges and core areas of all elephants where it was either used according to its abundance or avoided. However, this should not be interpreted as indicating that elephants will not affect plants of the Thicket Biome since change will be cumulative and monitoring should be ongoing to ensure the conservation of this regionally important Biome.
Family studies in chronic lymphocytic leukaemia and other lymphoproliferative tumours
Authors: Goldin Lynn R. , Caporaso Neil E.
Published: November 2007

Families with multiple individuals affected with chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL) and other related B‐cell tumours have been described in the literature. Familial CLL does not appear to differ from sporadic CLL in terms of prognostic markers and clinical outcome. Large, population‐based case–control and cohort studies have also shown significant familial aggregation of CLL and related conditions, including non‐Hodgkin and Hodgkin lymphoma. Monoclonal B‐cell lymphocytosis also aggregates in CLL families. However, the clinical implication of familial aggregation is minimal given the overall rarity of CLL. Linkage studies have been conducted in high‐risk CLL families to screen the whole genome for loci that contribute to susceptibility but no gene mutations have yet been identified by this method. Association studies of candidate genes have implicated immune function and other genes but more studies are needed to verify these findings. The ability to conduct large scale genomic studies will play an important role in detecting susceptibility genes for CLL over the next few years and thereby help to delineate aetiological pathways.
Chronic lymphocytic leukaemia: an overview of aetiology in light of recent developments in classification and pathogenesis
Authors: Linet Martha S. , Schubauer‐Berigan Mary K. , Weisenburger Dennis D. , Richardson David B. , Landgren Ola , Blair Aaron , Silver Sharon , Field R. William , Caldwell Glyn , Hatch Maureen , Dores Graça M.
Published: November 2007

This overview of the epidemiology of chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL) summarizes the evolution of classification and coding systems and describes the intersection of pathogenesis and aetiology. The role of the putative precursor to CLL, monoclonal B‐cell lymphocytosis (MBL), is considered, and ideas for future investigations of the MBL‐CLL relationship are outlined. We discuss the epidemiology of CLL, focusing on descriptive patterns and methodological considerations. Postulated risk factors are reviewed including the role of ionizing and non‐ionizing radiation, occupational and environmental chemical exposures, medical conditions and treatments, and lifestyle and genetic factors. We conclude by raising key questions that need to be addressed to advance our understanding of CLL aetiology. Recommendations for future epidemiological studies are given, including the standardization of reporting of CLL across cancer registries, the clarification of the natural history of MBL, and the circumvention of the methodological shortcomings of prior epidemiological investigations in relation to radiation, chemical exposures and infectious agents.
Overview of monoclonal gammopathies of undetermined significance
Authors: Vogt Robert F. , Marti Gerald E.
Published: November 2007

Among the B‐cell lymphoproliferative disorders, monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS) is the humoral counterpart to monoclonal B‐cell lymphocytosis. This review introduces the papers from the section devoted to MGUS at the International Workshop entitled ‘Monoclonal B‐cell lymphocytosis and chronic lymphocytic leukaemia: environmental and genetic risk factors.’
Monoclonal B‐cell lymphocytosis as a biomarker in environmental health studies
Authors: Vogt Robert F. , Shim Youn K. , Middleton Dannie C. , Buffler Patricia A. , Campolucci Sharon S. , Lybarger Jeffrey A. , Marti Gerald E.
Published: November 2007

The first studies of monoclonal B‐cell lymphocytosis (MBL) in the general population were conducted as part of environmental health investigations that began in 1991. MBL was observed as an unexpected finding when blood samples were immunophenotyped by two‐colour flow cytometric methods in common use at that time. The initial observations led to a workshop in 1995, at which case definitions were considered and medical follow‐up investigations were recommended. Medical follow‐ups were conducted in 1997 and 2003. A total of eight cases of confirmed MBL and three cases of presumptive MBL were identified. This review summarizes the findings from those investigations and discusses the issues related to using MBL as a biomarker in environmental health research and population‐based studies.
Multiple myeloma, chronic lymphocytic leukaemia and associated precursor diseases
Authors: Landgren Ola , Kyle Robert A.
Published: November 2007

Multiple myeloma and chronic lymphocytic leukaemia share common biological and clinical features including the presence of defined precursor conditions (monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance and monoclonal B‐cell lymphocytosis respectively). Here, we discuss evidence from the literature on the potential aetiological roles for genetic and chronic immune stimulatory factors on the pathway from precursor to malignancy. Also, we speculate on the relationship between precursor and malignancy and talk about future directions and gaps in the literature.
MicroRNAs in the pathogeny of chronic lymphocytic leukaemia
Authors: Nicoloso Milena S. , Kipps Thomas J. , Croce Carlo M. , Calin George A.
Published: November 2007

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have been linked to the initiation and progression of chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL). The main molecular alterations are represented by variations in gene expression, usually mild and with consequences for a vast number of target protein‐coding genes. Recent studies have shown that miRNAs are the main candidates for the elusive class of CLL predisposing genes. These discoveries could be exploited for the development of useful markers for diagnosis and prognosis, as well as for the development of new RNA‐based cancer therapies.
Susceptibility genes and B‐chronic lymphocytic leukaemia
Authors: Slager Susan L. , Kay Neil E. , Fredericksen Zachary S. , Wang Alice H. , Liebow Mark , Cunningham Julie M. , Vachon Celine M. , Call Timothy G. , Cerhan James R.
Published: November 2007

Common genetic variants are thought to increase the risk of chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL), and case–control studies provide an approach to detect these variants. There have been multiple candidate gene studies published to date, but relatively few disease pathway studies or large genomic association studies. We summarize the results of these previous studies, as well as present results from our recent large pathway study of 9412 single nucleotide polymorphisms from 1253 immunity and inflammation genes in a study of 126 CLL cases and 484 frequency‐matched controls. Several promising genes have been identified as susceptibility genes for risk of CLL across all of these association studies. However, a number of candidate gene studies have not been replicated in follow‐up studies, whereas the results from disease pathway and large genomic studies have yet to be replicated in an independent sample. The challenge of future studies of this type will be overcoming study design issues, including definition of CLL, sample size limitations and multiple testing issues.
Investigation of the interleukin (IL)‐4/IL‐4 receptor system in promyelocytic leukaemia PLB‐985 cells during differentiation toward neutrophil‐like phenotype: mechanism involved in IL‐4‐induced SOCS3 protein expression
Authors: Ratthé Claude , Girard Denis
Published: November 2007

The interleukin 4 (IL‐4)/IL‐4 receptor (IL‐4R) system in promyelocytes is not well documented. Here, we used promyelocytic leukaemia PLB‐985 cells differentiated with dimethylsulfoxide (PLB‐985D) toward neutrophil‐like phenotype to investigate the IL‐4/IL‐4R system. PLB‐985 cells did not express CD132 (γc) but expressed the complete IL‐4 type II receptor (IL‐4Rα and IL‐13Rα1). Moreover, PLB‐985 cells lost surface expression of IL‐13Rα1 during differentiation, resulting in PLB‐985D cells expressing only IL‐4Rα fully responsive to IL‐4, as judged by activation of mitogen‐activated protein (MAP) kinases and Janus kinase 1. IL‐4 also increased suppressor of cytokine signalling 3 (SOCS3) protein level in the presence of the proteasome inhibitor MG132 exclusively in PLB‐985D cells. As the IL‐4Rα chain has been associated with a component of the phagocyte NADPH oxidase, we used PLB‐985‐gp91phox deficient cells (mimicking chronic granulomatous disease, X‐CGD), to investigate the IL‐4/IL‐4R system in X‐CGD‐D cells. IL‐4 was found to activate MAP kinases in X‐CGD‐D cells but did not up‐regulate SOCS3, in contrast to granulocyte colony‐stimulating factor, granulocyte‐macrophage colony‐stimulating factor and IL‐6. Utilization of catalase, cycloheximide and genistein inhibitors showed that IL‐4 induced SOCS3 by a mechanism dependent on a complete NADPH oxidase complex, protein synthesis and tyrosine phosphorylation, but independent of production of reactive oxygen species. We conclude that IL‐4 induces cell signalling in promyelocytes expressing only IL‐4Rα.
Differential effects of BMP‐2 and TGF‐β1 on chondrogenic differentiation of adipose derived stem cells
Authors: Mehlhorn A. T. , Niemeyer P. , Kaschte K. , Muller L. , Finkenzeller G. , Hartl D. , Sudkamp N. P. , Schmal H.
Published: November 2007

Abstract.  Objectives: This article addresses the interaction of transforming growth factor β1 (TGF‐β1) and bone morphogenic protein 2 (BMP‐2) during osteo‐chondrogenic differentiation of adipose‐derived adult stem cells (ASC). TGF‐β1 was expected to modulate the BMP‐2‐induced effects through transcriptional regulation of Dlx‐5, Msx‐2 and Runx‐2. Materials and Methods: Encapsulated ASC were cultured for 14 days in medium containing TGF‐β1 and/or BMP‐2. mRNA expression of the extracellular matrix molecules col2a1, cartilage oligomeric matrix protein, col10a1, alkaline phosphatase (AP) and transcription factors Msx‐2, Dlx‐5 and Runx‐2 was analysed. Release of glycosaminoglycans, collagen types II and X into the extracellular matrix was demonstrated. Results: BMP‐2 and TGF‐β1 induced a chondrogenic phenotype in ASC. Combined growth factor treatment had a synergistic effect on col10a1 and an additive effect on col2a1 mRNA expression. Synthesis of glycosaminoglycans was enhanced by combined growth factor treatment. Addition of TGF‐β1 inhibited BMP‐2 induced AP expression and activity and both proteins promoted chondrogenic maturation. Conclusions: Prevention of BMP‐2‐induced osteogenic transdifferentiation by TGF‐β1 seemed not to be mediated by transcriptional regulation of Dlx‐5. Due to these findings, simultaneous stimulation of ASC with BMP‐2 and TGF‐β1 seemed to be beneficial for complete differentiation of ASC into chondrocytes.
Importance of melastatin‐like transient receptor potential 7 and cations (magnesium, calcium) in human osteoblast‐like cell proliferation
Authors: Abed E. , Moreau R.
Published: November 2007

Abstract.  Bone tissue in the adult is continuously being remodelled, and overall bone mass is maintained constant by the balance between osteoclastic bone resorption and osteoblastic bone formation. Adequate osteoblastic proliferation is essential for both appropriate formation and for regulation of resorption, and thereby the maintenance of bone remodelling equilibrium. Objectives: Here, we have investigated the roles of melastatin‐like transient receptor potential 6 and 7 (TRPM6, TRPM7), which are calcium (Ca2+) and magnesium (Mg2+) conducting channels, during proliferation of human osteoblasts. Results: Genetic expression of TRPM6 and TRPM7 was shown in human osteoblast‐like MG‐63, SaOS and U2‐OS cells, and reduction of extracellular Mg2+ or Ca2+ led to a decrease of cell proliferation. Concomitant reduction of both ions further accentuated reduction of cell proliferation. Expression of TRPM7 channels was increased under conditions of reduced extracellular Mg2+ and Ca2+ levels whereas expression of TRPM6 was not modified, suggesting compensatory mechanisms afforded by TRPM7 in order to maintain intracellular ion homeostasis. Pre‐incubation of cells in reduced extracellular Mg2+ conditions led to activation of Ca2+ and Mg2+ influx. Reduction of TRPM7 expression by specific siRNA prevented latter influx and inhibited cell proliferation. Conclusions: Our results indicate that extracellular Mg2+ and Ca2+ deficiency reduces the proliferation of human osteoblastic cells. Expression and activity of TRPM7 is modulated by extracellular Mg2+ and Ca2+ availability, indicating that TRPM7 channels are involved in intracellular ion homeostasis and proliferation of osteoblasts.
The linkage between riparian predators and aquatic insects across a stream‐resource spectrum
Authors: BURDON FRANCIS J. , HARDING JON S.
Published: November 2007

1. Spatial subsidies, defined as the flow of energy, nutrients, organisms or pollutants from one habitat to another, have been shown to affect the food–web dynamics in a wide range of ecosystems. An important subsidy to riparian communities is the contribution of adult stream insects to terrestrial predators such as birds, bats and lizards, but also invertebrates including ground and web‐building spiders.

2. We surveyed 37 first‐ and second‐order forest streams across differing environmental gradients in the Central South Island, New Zealand, to investigate the relationship between potential aquatic prey subsidies and predatory riparian arachnids. We anticipated that stream‐insect biomass would be positively associated with riparian arachnids, as a result of emergent adult aquatic insect subsidies to the adjacent habitat.

3. We confirmed positive associations between stream‐insect biomass as a predictor variable and riparian arachnid biomass (R2 = 0.42, F1,34 = 25.2, P < 0.001) and web densities (R2 = 0.45, F1,14 = 11.5, P < 0.01) respectively as dependent variables after adjusting for the confounding effects of environmental variables. Hierarchical partitioning confirmed the importance of stream insect biomass as a statistically significant contributor to the total explained variance in analyses calculated for arachnid biomass, abundance and web density.

4. A concurrent survey of spider‐web density along 20‐m transects from the stream edge into the forest indicated a strong decline in web‐building spider density moving away from the stream (R2 = 0.41, F1,158 = 109, P < 0.001), with stream‐insect biomass as a significant covariate (F1,149 = 17.7, P < 0.001).

5. Our results suggest that productivity gradients present in the donor system affect the magnitude of the interaction between adjacent habitats. Productivity gradients may lead to increased reciprocal subsidies through a positive feedback loop involving the predation of spiders and other predatory terrestrial invertebrates by aquatic predators. However, terrestrial insectivores such as birds, bats and lizards that are not readily used as prey by aquatic predators may circumvent the feedback cycle by consuming a large proportion of emergent aquatic‐insect biomass. This may lead to asymmetry in the strength of food–web linkages between aquatic and terrestrial habitats.
Influence of aquatic macrophyte habitat complexity on invertebrate abundance and richness in tropical lagoons
Authors: THOMAZ SIDINEI M. , DIBBLE ERIC D. , EVANGELISTA LUIZ R. , HIGUTI JANET , BINI LUIS M.
Published: November 2007

1. Aquatic plants are a key component of spatial heterogeneity in a waterscape, contributing to habitat complexity and helping determine diversity at various spatial scales. Theoretically, the more complex a habitat, the higher the number of species present.

2. Few empirical data are available to test the hypothesis that complexity increases diversity in aquatic communities (e.g. Jeffries, 1993). Fractal dimension has become widely applied in ecology as a tool to quantify the degree of complexity at different scales.

3. We investigated the hypothesis that complexity in vegetated habitat in two tropical lagoons mediates littoral invertebrate number of taxa (S) and density (N). Aquatic macrophyte habitat complexity was defined using a fractal dimension and a gradient of natural plant complexities. We also considered plant area, plant identity and, only for S, invertebrate density as additional explanatory variables.

4. Our results indicate that habitat complexity provided by the different architectures of aquatic plants, significantly affects both S and total N. However, number of individuals (as a result of passive sampling) also helps to account for S and, together with plant identity and area, contributes to the determination of N. We suggest that measurements of structural complexity, measured through fractal geometry, should be included in studies aimed at explaining attributes of attached invertebrates at small (e.g. plant or leaf) scales.
Assessing mate size in the red swamp crayfish Procambarus clarkii: effects of visual versus chemical stimuli
Authors: AQUILONI LAURA , GHERARDI FRANCESCA
Published: November 2007

1. Mate assessment requires an efficient system of information exchange between the sexes and often relies on several forms of communication. Both sexes of the crayfish, Procambarus clarkii, select a mate on the basis of its body size, independently of chelar size/symmetry and dominance status, large size being a proxy for a high quality partner. Here, we explored the effects that visual and chemical stimuli, emitted alone or in combination, exert on the assessment of size of a potential mate.

2. We followed a binary choice test paradigm, in which two male or female ‘targets’, of either large or small size, were simultaneously presented to a female or a male ‘chooser’. We recorded the first target visited, the total duration of the visits per target, and the behaviour of the chooser when approaching the target area.

3. Our results show that females require a combination of visual and chemical stimuli to select the larger male. A more complex pattern was found when males were the choosers. While visual and chemical cues together rendered them willing to mate with the larger female, their initial choice and the total time spent near her depended only on smell. In mate assessment by P. clarkii, visual and chemical information seem to act as ‘non‐redundant signals’.
P‐ and S‐wave velocities of consolidated sediments from a seafloor seismic survey in the North Celtic Sea Basin, offshore Ireland
Authors: Shillington Donna J. , Minshull Timothy A. , Peirce Christine , O'Sullivan John M.
Published: November 2007

A geophysical survey was conducted over a hydrocarbon prospect in the North Celtic Sea Basin using a small array of ocean‐bottom seismographs (OBSs). The purpose of this study was to determine the ratio of compressional (P)‐ to shear (S)‐wave velocity of consolidated sedimentary rocks in order to constrain possible subsurface variations in pore‐fluid content. The ratio of VP and VS is known to be particularly sensitive to lithology, porosity and pore‐fluid content, making it a useful parameter for evaluating hydrocarbon prospects. OBSs offer a relatively cheap and time‐effective means of acquiring multi‐component data compared with ocean‐bottom cables. In this contribution, we demonstrate the ability of an OBS survey comprising three pairs of two OBSs spaced at 1.6 km to recover lateral variations in the VP/VS ratio. A key requirement of this type of study is that S waves will be generated by mode conversions in the subsurface, since they cannot be generated in nor travel through fluids. In this survey, the contrast in physical properties of the hard seabed of the North Celtic Sea Basin provided a means of generating converted S waves. Two‐dimensional ray‐tracing and forward modelling was used to create both VP and VS models along a profile crossing the Blackrock prospect in the North Celtic Sea Basin. These models comprise four layers and extend to a maximum depth of 1.1 km. The observed northward decrease in the VP/VS ratio at depths of 500–1000 m below the seafloor in the study area is interpreted to represent lateral variation in the amount of gas present in the pore space of Upper Cretaceous chalks and shales overlying the prospective reservoir.
Modulation of diabetes in NOD mice by GAD65‐specific monoclonal antibodies is epitope specific and accompanied by anti‐idiotypic antibodies
Authors: Hall Tyler R. , Bogdani Marika , LeBoeuf Renee C. , Kirk Elizabeth A. , Maziarz Marlena , Banga J. Paul , Oak Shilpa , Pennington Christina A. , Hampe Christiane S.
Published: November 2007

Type 1 diabetes is caused by the autoimmune destruction of pancreatic beta cells. Here we show that administration of a human monoclonal antibody (b96·11) specific to the 65‐kDa isoform of glutamate decarboxylase (GAD65) to prediabetic non‐obese diabetic (NOD) mice significantly delays the onset of autoimmune diabetes. We found this effect to be epitope‐specific, as only b96·11 showed this therapeutic property, while a GAD65‐specific human monoclonal control antibody (b78) derived from the same patient, but specific to a different determinant of GAD65, had no significant effect on the progression of disease. Administration of b96·11 or b78 to NOD mice was accompanied by the generation of anti‐idiotypic antibodies. Importantly, the induced anti‐idiotypic antibodies were specific for the immunizing antibody and blocked the binding of GAD65 by the respective antibody. These findings suggest a potential role for the internal image of the GAD65 determinant recognized by b96·11 in the anti‐idiotypic antibody, supporting an immunomodulatory role for GAD65‐specific autoantibodies, as originally postulated by Jerne.
Isolation and characterization of dendritic cells from common marmosets for preclinical cell therapy studies
Authors: Ohta Shigeki , Ueda Yoko , Yaguchi Masae , Matsuzaki Yumi , Nakamura Masaya , Toyama Yoshiaki , Tanioka Yoshikuni , Tamaoki Norikazu , Nomura Tatsuji , Okano Hideyuki , Kawakami Yutaka , Toda Masahiro
Published: November 2007

Dendritic cells (DCs) have important functions as modulators of immune responses, and their ability to activate T cells is of great value in cancer immunotherapy. The isolation of DCs from the peripheral blood of rhesus and African green monkeys has been reported, but the immune system in the common marmoset remains poorly characterized, although it offers many potential advantages for preclinical studies. In the present study, we devised methods, based on techniques developed for mouse and human DC preparation, for isolating DCs from three major tissue sources in the common marmoset: bone marrow (BM), spleen and peripheral blood. Each set of separated cells was analysed using the cell surface DC‐associated markers CD11c, CD80, CD83, CD86 and human leucocyte antigen (HLA)‐DR, all of which are antibodies against human antigens, and the cells were further characterized both functionally and morphologically as antigen‐presenting cells. BM proved to be an excellent cell source for the isolation of DCs intended for preclinical studies on cell therapy, for which large quantities of cells are required. In the BM‐derived CD11c+ cell population, cells exhibiting the characteristic features of DCs were enriched, with the typical DC morphology and the abilities to undergo endocytosis, to secrete interleukin (IL)‐12, and to stimulate Xenogenic T cells. Moreover, BM‐derived DCs produced the neurotrophic factor NT‐3, which is also found in murine splenic DCs. These results suggest that BM‐derived DCs from the common marmoset may be useful for biological analysis and for preclinical studies on cell therapy for central nervous system diseases and cancer.
Interleukin‐21 activates human natural killer cells and modulates their surface receptor expression
Authors: Skak Kresten , Frederiksen Klaus Stensgaard , Lundsgaard Dorthe
Published: November 2007

Interleukin (IL)‐21 is a novel cytokine that has been shown to enhance proliferation and activation of CD8+ T cells, enhance natural killer (NK) cell activity and costimulate anti‐CD40‐driven B‐cell proliferation in mice. Several studies have furthermore demonstrated antitumour effects of IL‐21 administration in mouse models. In this study we have investigated how IL‐21 affects the survival and cytotoxicity of human NK cells and modulates their expression of surface receptors and of the effector molecules granzyme B and perforin. In contrast to murine NK cells, where IL‐21 alone cannot sustain survival, IL‐21 and IL‐2 were equally efficient in sustaining survival of human NK cells. In the absence of other cytokines, IL‐21 had little effect on expression of a panel of surface receptors on human NK cells. However, IL‐21 synergized with IL‐2 to up‐regulate several surface receptors, including NKG2A, CD25, CD86 and CD69. The CD25+ CD86+ NK cells were CD56bright and were large and granular. Expression of the effector molecules perforin and granzyme A and B was up‐regulated by IL‐21 at both mRNA and protein levels. Furthermore, IL‐21 increased the cytotoxicity of NK cells against K562 target cells. These findings suggest that IL‐21 modulates NK cell activity through induction of intracellular effector molecules as well as modulation of surface receptor expression.
Long‐term sealing ability of Pulp Canal Sealer, AH‐Plus, GuttaFlow and Epiphany
Authors: Bouillaguet S. , Shaw L. , Barthelemy J. , Krejci I. , Wataha J. C.
Published: November 2007

Aim  To evaluate the long‐term sealing ability of four contemporary endodontic sealers [Pulp Canal Sealer (PCS), AH‐Plus, GuttaFlow and Epiphany] using a fluid filtration technique.

Methodology  The palatal roots of 40 human maxillary molar teeth were selected and the root canal was prepared using a crown‐down technique (apical size 40, 6% taper). Roots were irrigated with 3% NaOCl, 17% EDTA solution and rinsed with distilled water. Canals were filled with either PCS, AH‐Plus, GuttaFlow or Epiphany using a single‐cone technique (n = 8). Twenty‐four hours after filling, the roots were connected to an automatic flow‐recording device (Flodec® System) filled with double‐distilled water under pressure (0.2 bar) to measure leakage. Flow rates were assessed at 6, 12 or 24‐h and after 1‐year of storage.

Results  None of the materials fully prevented fluid flow. Fluid flow decreased after 6 h and decreased further after 12 h. After 24 h, PCS and AH‐Plus allowed significantly more fluid flow than GuttaFlow and Epiphany. After 1 year, PCS allowed significantly more fluid flow than the other materials. No significant changes in leakage occurred between 24 h and 1 year.

Conclusions  GuttaFlow and Epiphany allowed less fluid movement along filled straight roots.