bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Validation of Reduced‐Scale Reactions for the Quantifiler™ Human DNA Kit
Authors: Westring Christian G. , Kristinsson Richard , Gilbert Dustin M. , Danielson Phillip B.
Published: August 2007

Abstract:  Accurate quantification of DNA samples is an important step in obtaining accurate and reproducible short tandem repeat (STR) profiles. Quantitative real‐time‐PCR has improved the speed and accuracy of DNA quantification over earlier methods, albeit at significantly greater cost per reaction. Here, the performance of reduced volume (10 μL) DNA quantification assays using the Quantifiler™ Human DNA Quantification Kit was evaluated using commercial standards and single source biological stains (e.g., venous blood, saliva, and semen). In addition, casework‐type samples including those subjected to environmental contaminants containing PCR inhibitors and samples having undergone extensive DNA degradation were also quantified. The concentration of DNA in various forensic samples ranged from 0 to 2.9 ng/μL depending on sample source and/or environmental insult. Compared to full‐scale reactions, reduced volume assays displayed equivalent to improved amplification efficiency and sample‐to‐sample reproducibility (±0.01–0.17 CT FAM). Furthermore, the use of data from reduced‐scale Quantifiler™ reactions facilitated the accurate determination of the amount of sample DNA extract needed to generate quality STR profiles. The use of 10 μL‐scale Quantifiler™ reaction volumes has the practical benefit of increasing the effective number of reactions per kit by 250%; thereby reducing the cost per assay by 60% while consuming less sample. This is particularly advantageous in cases of consumptive testing.
It Ought to Be a Crime: Criminalizing Human Rights Violations
Authors: Blau Judith , Moncada Alberto
Published: August 2007

In this article we propose that distinctions between human rights violations and violations of humanitarian law are substantively groundless. Human beings are entitled to live their lives with dignity and security, entitled to their freedoms. There remain, however, practical problems: human rights law and humanitarian law are distinct traditions with their own separate venues for judicatory review. They are also different in the popular imagination. We suggest ways that these distinctions can be dissolved.
Vascular mania: an old concept in danger of sclerosing? A clinical overview
Authors: Wijeratne C. , Malhi G. S.
Published: August 2007

Objective:  To review the evidence for an association between vascular disease and mania, and in this context, to assess the suitability of previously proposed diagnostic criteria.

Method:  Relevant articles were retrieved and reviewed with the aid of search engines [MEDLINE, PsychInfo and EMBASE from 1996 to 2006] using pertinent search terms. Because of the paucity of data, systematic criteria for levels of evidence could not be applied.

Results:  The literature is limited by the preponderance of case reports or case series, the use of overlapping terms, such as secondary mania, disinhibition syndrome and poststroke mania, and variable definitions of mania per se. There is general support for a tentative association between mania and vascular risk factors, and also between mania and cerebrovascular disease. Such associations seem best described by the term vascular mania for the sake of clinical utility, although it erroneously conveys causality. Proposed diagnostic criteria have defined a late‐age at onset (50 years +) sub‐type of mania, with associated neuroimaging and neuropsychological changes which are not specific to this age group.

Conclusion:  Further studies are needed to determine whether mania associated with vascular disease is a specific and separate sub‐type with a late‐age at onset. An alternative framework for considering vascular mania is proposed.
A 6‐month randomized open‐label comparison of continuation of oral atypical antipsychotic therapy or switch to long acting injectable risperidone in patients with bipolar disorder
Authors: Yatham L. N. , Fallu A. , Binder C. E.
Published: August 2007

Objective:  To determine the safety and effectiveness of long‐acting injectable risperidone (LAI‐ris) add‐on in bipolar patients.

Method:  A 6‐month, open‐label, randomized, pilot trial enrolled 49 bipolar out‐patients who were taking a mood stabilizer and an atypical antipsychotic (AAP). Patients were maintained on a mood stabilizer and were randomized to continuation of their current AAP or switched to LAI‐ris treatment. Safety outcomes included adverse events and changes in vital signs, laboratory tests and extrapyramidal symptoms (EPS). Effectiveness measures included Clinical Global Impression‐Severity, scales assessing mania, depression, anxiety, resource utilization, quality of life, subject satisfaction with treatment, and time to intervention.

Results:  Twenty‐three subjects were randomized to LAI‐ris and 26 to oral AAP. There were no significant differences between the groups in adverse events, EPS change scores, weight or other safety measures. LAI‐ris group had significant reductions in symptoms as measured by changes in Clinical Global Impression‐Severity scores and Young Mania Rating Scale at endpoint relative to baseline and oral AAP group had reductions in Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale scores relative to baseline but no significant differences were noted between the groups on any of the efficacy measures.

Conclusion:  LAI‐ris demonstrated similar effectiveness, safety and tolerability compared to oral AAP in this 6 month pilot trial.
Role for cAMP‐protein kinase A signalling in augmented neutrophil adhesion and chemotaxis in sickle cell disease
Authors: Canalli Andreia A. , Franco‐Penteado Carla F. , Traina Fabiola , Saad Sara T.O. , Costa Fernando F. , Conran Nicola
Published: August 2007

The significance of the leukocyte in sickle cell disease (SCD) pathophysiology is becoming increasingly recognised; we sought to examine whether the chemotactic properties of neutrophils of SCD individuals may be altered and, further, to better understand the signalling events that mediate altered SCD neutrophil function. Adhesion to immobilised fibronectin (FN) and chemotaxis of control and SCD neutrophils were assessed using in vitro static adhesion assays and 96‐well chemotaxis chamber assays. Adhesion assays confirmed a significantly higher basal adhesion of SCD neutrophils to FN, compared with control neutrophils. Chemotaxis assays established, for the first time, that SCD neutrophils demonstrate greater spontaneous migration and, also, augmented migration in response to IL‐8, when compared with control neutrophils. Co‐incubation of SCD neutrophils with KT5720 (an inhibitor of PKA) abrogated increased basal SCD neutrophil adhesion, spontaneous chemotaxis and IL‐8‐stimulated chemotaxis. Stimulation of SCD neutrophils with IL‐8 also significantly augmented SCD neutrophil adhesion to FN with a concomitant increase in cAMP levels and this increase in adhesion was abolished by KT5720. Interestingly, the adhesive properties of neutrophils from SCD individuals on hydroxyurea therapy were not significantly altered and results indicate that a reduction in intracellular cAMP may contribute to lower the adhesive properties of these cells. Data indicate that up‐regulated cAMP signalling plays a significant role in the altered adhesive and migratory properties in SCD neutrophils. Such alterations may have important implications for the pathophysiology of the disease and the cAMP‐PKA pathway may represent a therapeutic target for the abrogation of altered leukocyte function.
Melanocyte–keratinocyte interaction induces calcium signalling and melanin transfer to keratinocytes
Authors: Joshi Preeti G. , Nair Nirmala , Begum Gulnaz , Joshi Nanda B. , Sinkar Vilas P. , Vora Shilpa
Published: August 2007

Physical contact between melanocytes and keratinocytes is a prerequisite for melanosome transfer to occur, but cellular signals induced during or after contact are not fully understood. Herein, it is shown that interactions between melanocyte and keratinocyte plasma membranes induced a transient intracellular calcium signal in keratinocytes that was required for pigment transfer. This intracellular calcium signal occurred due to release of calcium from intracellular stores. Pigment transfer observed in melanocyte–keratinocyte co‐cultures was inhibited when intracellular calcium in keratinocytes was chelated. We propose that a ‘ligand‐receptor’ type interaction exists between melanocytes and keratinocytes that triggers intracellular calcium signalling in keratinocytes and mediates melanin transfer.
Vitiligo puzzle: the pieces fall in place
Authors: Westerhof Wiete , D’Ischia Marco
Published: August 2007

Over the years, the role of biochemical, immunological, genetic, and other biological aspects in the pathogenesis of vitiligo has been studied. So far, no convincing model describing the interplay of these contributing factors has been formulated. Based on existing research, we propose that vitiligo has a multi‐factorial etiology, characterized by multiple steps, but always involving an increase of external or internal phenol/catechol concentration, serving as a preferred surrogate substrate of tyrosinase, competing with its physiological substrate tyrosine. The conversion of these substrates into reactive quinones is reinforced by a disturbed redox balance (increasing hydrogen peroxide). Such reactive quinones can be covalently bound to the catalytic centre of tyrosinase (haptenation). This could give rise to a new antigen, carried by Langerhans cells to the regional lymph node, stimulating the proliferation of cytotoxic T cells. However, the activation of such cytotoxic cells is only a first step in skin melanocyte killing, which also depends on a shift in the balance between immune defence and tolerance, e.g. resulting from a decrease in properly functioning T‐regulatory cells. With this new model, based on a synthesis of several of the existing theories, in mind, the external and internal factors involved in the etiopathogenesis of vitiligo are reviewed, against the background of reported clinical data, experimental studies and existing and potential new therapies. A similar complex mechanism may also lead to some other autoimmune diseases.
Gene Expression Profiling of the Rat Endometriosis Model
Authors: Konno Ryo , Fujiwara Hiroyuki , Netsu Sachiho , Odagiri Kohei , Shimane Miyuki , Nomura Hitoshi , Suzuki Mitsuaki
Published: August 2007

Problem

To investigate the molecular mechanism of endometriosis, gene expression profiling was analyzed in a rat endometriosis model.

Method of study

An endometriosis model was induced by uterine autotransplantation in the peritoneal cavity on a female‐SD rat (8 weeks old). As control samples, the normal uterine tissues were used. The gene expression was compared between endometriotic lesions and normal uterine tissues by cDNA microarray analysis, quantitative real time RT‐PCR and immunohistochemistry.

Results

The expression of 71 genes was upregulated and that of 45 genes was downregulated in the endometriotic lesions compared to normal uterine tissues. The upregulated genes included genes encoding cytokines, chemokines, growth factors and cell adhesion molecules. The levels of transcripts of osteopontin, Lyn, Vav1, Runx1, and l‐selectin in the endometriotic lesions were 130, 10, 10, 12 and 46‐fold higher than the respective levels in the eutopic endometrial samples.

Conclusion

The results suggest that osteopontin, Lyn, Vav1, Runx1, and l‐selectin play important roles in the pathogenesis of endometriosis.
Natural Killer (NK) Cells from Killers to Regulators: Distinct Features Between Peripheral Blood and Decidual NK Cells
Authors: Santoni Angela , Zingoni Alessandra , Cerboni Cristina , Gismondi Angela
Published: August 2007

Natural killer (NK) cells are a key component of innate immunity, particularly crucial during the early phase of immune responses against certain viruses, parasites, and microbial pathogens. The role of NK cell during pregnancy has been vividly discussed over the past years and it is now becoming increasingly clear that NK cells control pregnancy maintenance at several levels. In normal pregnancy, it appears that they provide benefit by properly secreting cytokines, chemokines and angiogenic factors rather than functioning as cytotoxic effector cells. However, as they are endowed with all the cytolytic weapons, they promptly become capable of attacking fetal and maternal tissues during infection and inflammation.
Genetic findings in Parkinson’s disease and translation into treatment: a leading role for mitochondria?
Authors: Bogaerts V. , Theuns J. , Van Broeckhoven C.
Published: August 2007

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a progressive neurodegenerative movement disorder and in most patients its aetiology remains unknown. Molecular genetic studies in familial forms of the disease identified key proteins involved in PD pathogenesis, and support a major role for mitochondrial dysfunction, which is also of significant importance to the common sporadic forms of PD. While current treatments temporarily alleviate symptoms, they do not halt disease progression. Drugs that target the underlying pathways to PD pathogenesis, including mitochondrial dysfunction, therefore hold great promise for neuroprotection in PD. Here we summarize how the proteins identified through genetic research (α‐synuclein,parkin,PINK1,DJ‐1,LRRK2andHTRA2) fit into and add to our current understanding of the role of mitochondrial dysfunction in PD. We highlight how these genetic findings provided us with suitable animal models and critically review how the gained insights will contribute to better therapies for PD.
Roles of leptin in prenatal and perinatal brain development
Authors: Udagawa Jun , Hatta Toshihisa , Hashimoto Ryuju , Otani Hiroki
Published: August 2007

ABSTRACT  Leptin is a hormone that reduces food intake and increases energy expenditure by acting on the arcuate nucleus in the hypothalamus. Recent studies indicated that the neuronal circuit related to food intake in the hypothalamus is formed in the neonatal period and that leptin is necessary for the formation of this circuit. Our studies have further suggested that leptin may act on the fetal cerebral cortex, including the cingulate cortex, which is involved in motor and cognitive processes, and that leptin may affect maintenance and differentiation of neural stem cells, glial‐restricted progenitor cells and/or neuronal lineage cells. These recent studies showed that leptin not only has homeostatic functions in adults, but also regulates brain development in the prenatal and neonatal periods. These findings suggest that leptin is related to formation of the normal brain structure and regenerative potency of neural cells as well as the predisposition to homeostatic dysfunction, low locomotor activity or impairment of cognitive function.
Pattern of chromosomal inversions identified by a birth defects registry, Hawaii, 1986–2002
Authors: Forrester Mathias B. , Merz Ruth D.
Published: August 2007

ABSTRACT  The aim of the investigation was to describe chromosomal inversions identified by a birth defects registry with respect to chromosomes involved, pregnancy outcome, method of diagnosis, inheritance, sex and diagnosis of major structural birth defects. Cases were derived from a population‐based birth defects registry in Hawaii and comprised all infants and fetuses with chromosomal deletions delivered during 1986–2002. A total of 68 cases were identified through a statewide birth defects registry in Hawaii during 1986–2002. The chromosomes involved in the greatest proportion of inversions were chromosomes 6 (18%) and 9 (18%). Live births accounted for 62 (91%) of the cases. Diagnosis was made by amniocentesis or chorionic villus sampling in 60 (88%) of the cases. Of the 43 cases with known inheritance, the inversion was inherited in 40 (93%) and de novo in three (7%). Males accounted for 31 (46%) and females for 37 (54%) of the cases. Major structural birth defects were identified in 12 (18%) of the cases. Inversions diagnosed among infants and fetuses in Hawaii do not appear to affect all chromosomes equally. Most detected inversions occurred among live births and were inherited conditions. Infants and fetuses with inversions are not frequently associated with major structural birth defects.
Characteristics of Kbl:Dutch rabbits in prenatal development in comparison with Kbl:New Zealand white rabbits
Authors: Kamata Ryo , Matsuoka Tetsuya , Mizoguchi Yasumoto , Sano Ema , Serizawa Kotaro , Ishikura Toshikazu , Asano Yuzo
Published: August 2007

ABSTRACT  Prenatal development of Kbl:Dutch rabbits was studied in comparison with Kbl:New Zealand white rabbits. Significantly accelerated ossification of the 5th and 6th sternebrae and a low incidence of fetuses with a 13th rib were characteristic features in the prenatal development of Kbl:Dutch rabbits in comparison with Kbl:New Zealand white rabbits. These characteristics were largely consistent with earlier studies of Dutch rabbits from different suppliers and are notable when Kbl:Dutch rabbits are used for the evaluation of skeletal ossification.
The Determinants of Employee Compensation in Family Firms: Empirical Evidence
Authors: Carrasco-Hernandez Antonio , Sánchez-Marín Gregorio
Published: August 2007

This study characterizes employee compensation in family owned and managed firms compared to that in nonfamily firms and professionally managed family firms. The general results show that employee compensation differs between firms. This is an important finding because to understand employee compensation designs it is necessary to understand the role of ownership concentration and management composition in the firm, since the compensation components are explicitly defined according to risk sharing and to the interest of the owners, CEO, and employees.
The Family Climate Scales—Development of a New Measure for Use in Family Business Research
Authors: Björnberg Åsa , Nicholson Nigel
Published: August 2007

The article reports on the development of the Family Climate Scales (FCS) questionnaire. The FCS is a multilevel, self-report, whole-family index of aspects of family culture and process for use in nonclinical settings with families where the children may be adults. It was designed to be particularly but not exclusively applicable in the context of family business. The FCS measures on six scales: Open Communication, Adaptability, Intergenerational Authority, Intergenerational Attention to Needs, Emotional Cohesion, and Cognitive Cohesion. Results indicate very high levels of internal consistency. Subscale intercorrelations are also high, with the exception of the Intergenerational Authority subscale. Analyses using structural equation modeling confirmed the hypothesized six-factor structure of family climate. No significant differences in family climate were found between business/nonbusiness families in the sample. Other relationships in the data set lend support to the validity and usefulness of the measure. Implications for family business theory/research and practitioners are discussed.
Family Ownership and Pyramids in the Spanish Market
Authors: Sacristán-Navarro María , Gómez-Ansón Silvia
Published: August 2007

This aim of this article is to describe, in the Spanish setting, family ownership and to explore how families hold their shares (the use of indirect ownership, pyramids, and cross-shareholdings). It also seeks to describe to what extent cash-flow rights differ from control rights and the degree of the firm's professionalization according to every type of owner category, but especially for families.
Perceptions of elder abuse among Australian older adults and general practitioners
Authors: Helmes Edward , Cuevas Marianela
Published: August 2007

Objectives:  To examine the perceptions of elder abuse among older Australian adults and general practitioners, a topic that has not been explored to the same extent as elsewhere.

Methods:  Forty‐eight general practitioners, 40 independent older adults, 38 older adult caregivers and 36 older care‐receivers completed a modified version of Moon and Williams’ (1993) questionnaire, which describes 10 potential elder abuse scenarios.

Results:  Split‐plot analysis of variance showed significant differences in the perceptions of severity of elder abuse scenarios across groups and gender. General practitioners tended to view the scenarios as less severe than the older‐aged groups. Within the older adult groups, caregivers generally perceived the scenarios as less abusive. Females generally perceived sexual abuse scenarios as more severe compared to males.

Conclusions:  With such differences in views evident, the development of effective assessment strategies will require more targeted efforts to increase the awareness of elder abuse in the community.
Ward‐based protocols can improve assessment and management of urinary tract infections in hospitalised patients
Authors: Henley David , Nguyen Huong , Inderjeeth Charles A
Published: August 2007

Objective:  To assess the rate of urine culture (UC) ordering and the treatment of urinary tract infections (UTI) in elderly patients before and after the introduction of ward‐based protocols.

Method:  Initial retrospective audit: 100 consecutive ward inpatients discharged from a Rehabilitation and Aged Care Ward. Intervention: ward‐based protocols for management of bacteriuria and UTI were developed. Reaudit: 100 inpatients to assess the effectiveness of this intervention.

Results:  There was a net reduction in the total number of UCs ordered (111 vs 145), and a significant reduction in the number of patients where multiple UC were ordered (26 vs 41, P = 0.025). More patients with UTI were treated according to antibiotic sensitivity in the post‐protocol audit (65 vs 54%).

Conclusion:  Ward‐based protocols can improve the management of UTI and potentially decrease the number of inappropriate UC ordered.
The introduction of electronic medication charts and prescribing in aged care facilities: An evaluation
Authors: Burns Pippa , Perkins David A , Larsen Karen , Dalley Andrew
Published: August 2007

The objective was to test the feasibility of electronic medication charts in aged care facilities and the impact on general practitioner (GP) and staff work processes. The Illawarra Division of General Practice conducted a trial where GPs used a modified version of commercially available software to generate medication charts, in four residential aged care facilities. Semistructured, face‐to‐face interviews, log books and an issue register were used to evaluate the success of this trial.

The system improved chart clarity, which was felt to have improved medication management accuracy. However, system usability was hindered by the location of the computer, the availability of prescription paper, and technical difficulties. The system is inexpensive and three facilities have continued to use it after the trial period.

To show measurable improvements in medication management, a trial that includes all residents is needed.

Aged care facilities need more computer equipment in order to adopt important innovations.
Adaptation to high temperatures through macromolecular dynamics by neutron scattering
Authors: Tehei Moeava , Zaccai Giuseppe
Published: August 2007

Work on the relationship between hyperthermophile protein dynamics, stability and activity is reviewed. Neutron spectroscopy has been applied to measure and compare the macromolecular dynamics of various hyperthermophilic and mesophilic proteins, under different conditions. First, molecular dynamics have been analyzed for the hyperthermophile malate dehydrogenase from Methanococcus jannaschii and a mesophilic homologue, the lactate dehydrogenase from Oryctolagus cunniculus (rabbit) muscle. The neutron scattering approach has provided independent measurements of the global flexibility and structural resilience of each protein, and it has been demonstrated that macromolecular dynamics represents one of the molecular mechanisms of thermoadaptation. The resilience was found to be higher for the hyperthermophilic protein, thus ensuring similar flexibilities in both enzymes at their optimal activity temperature. Second, the neutron method has been developed to quantify the average macromolecular flexibility and resilience within the natural crowded environment of the cell, and mean macromolecular motions have been measured in vivo in psychrophile, mesophile, thermophile and hyperthermophile bacteria. The macromolecular resilience in bacteria was found to increase with adaptation to high temperatures, whereas flexibility was maintained within narrow limits, independent of physiological temperature for all cells in their active state. Third, macromolecular motions have been measured in free and immobilized dihydrofolate reductase from Escherichia coli. The immobilized mesophilic enzyme has increased stability and decreased activity, so that its properties are changed to resemble those of a thermophilic enzyme. Quasi‐elastic neutron scattering measurements have also been performed to probe the protein motions. Compared to the free enzyme, the average height of the activation free energy barrier to local motions was found to be increased by 0.54 kcal·mol−1 in the immobilized dihydrofolate reductase, a value that is of the same order as expected from the theoretical rate equation.
Hyperthermophilic enzymes − stability, activity and implementation strategies for high temperature applications
Authors: Unsworth Larry D. , van der Oost John , Koutsopoulos Sotirios
Published: August 2007

Current theories agree that there appears to be no unique feature responsible for the remarkable heat stability properties of hyperthermostable proteins. A concerted action of structural, dynamic and other physicochemical attributes are utilized to ensure the delicate balance between stability and functionality of proteins at high temperatures. We have thoroughly screened the literature for hyperthermostable enzymes with optimal temperatures exceeding 100 °C that can potentially be employed in multiple biotechnological and industrial applications and to substitute traditionally used, high‐cost engineered mesophilic/thermophilic enzymes that operate at lower temperatures. Furthermore, we discuss general methods of enzyme immobilization and suggest specific strategies to improve thermal stability, activity and durability of hyperthermophilic enzymes.
Thermodynamic stability and folding of proteins from hyperthermophilic organisms
Authors: Luke Kathryn A. , Higgins Catherine L. , Wittung‐Stafshede Pernilla
Published: August 2007

Life grows almost everywhere on earth, including in extreme environments and under harsh conditions. Organisms adapted to high temperatures are called thermophiles (growth temperature 45–75 °C) and hyperthermophiles (growth temperature ≥ 80 °C). Proteins from such organisms usually show extreme thermal stability, despite having folded structures very similar to their mesostable counterparts. Here, we summarize the current data on thermodynamic and kinetic folding/unfolding behaviors of proteins from hyperthermophilic microorganisms. In contrast to thermostable proteins, rather few (i.e. less than 20) hyperthermostable proteins have been thoroughly characterized in terms of their in vitro folding processes and their thermodynamic stability profiles. Examples that will be discussed include co‐chaperonin proteins, iron‐sulfur‐cluster proteins, and DNA‐binding proteins from hyperthermophilic bacteria (i.e. Aquifex and Theromotoga) and archea (e.g. Pyrococcus, Thermococcus, Methanothermus and Sulfolobus). Despite the small set of studied systems, it is clear that super‐slow protein unfolding is a dominant strategy to allow these proteins to function at extreme temperatures.
Implication for buried polar contacts and ion pairs in hyperthermostable enzymes
Authors: Matsui Ikuo , Harata Kazuaki
Published: August 2007

Understanding the structural basis of thermostability and thermoactivity, and their interdependence, is central to the successful future exploitation of extremophilic enzymes in biotechnology. However, the structural basis of thermostability is still not fully characterized. Ionizable residues play essential roles in proteins, modulating protein stability, folding and function. The dominant roles of the buried polar contacts and ion pairs have been reviewed by distinguishing between the inside polar contacts and the total intramolecular polar contacts, and by evaluating their contribution as molecular determinants for protein stability using various protein structures from hyperthermophiles, thermophiles and mesophilic organisms. The analysis revealed that the remarkably increased number of internal polar contacts in a monomeric structure probably play a central role in enhancing the melting temperature value up to 120 °C for hyperthermophilic enzymes from the genus Pyrococcus. These results provide a promising contribution for improving the thermostability of enzymes by modulating buried polar contacts and ion pairs.
SOLIDARITY OR COLONIALISM? THE POLEMIC OF “LABOR COLONIALISM” IN PUERTO RICO
Authors: Rosado Marzán César F.
Published: August 2007

Leaders of American‐based labor organizations in Puerto Rico aggressively supported a collective bargaining rights bill for public sector workers in 1998 because, so they argued, the new law would help organize the public sector. However, almost ten years after the approval of that bill, it has become patently clear that the law did not lead to new organizing in Puerto Rico. Rather, the law changed the institutional makeup of labor relations in Puerto Rico by providing American‐based labor organizations an opportunity to raid existing Puerto Rican labor organizations and become the exclusive representatives of public sector workers. Therefore, since the law was approved, a war between some American‐based unions and some Puerto Rico‐based labor organizations has ensued, one where the Puerto Rican unions accuse U.S. unions of being “labor colonialists,” while American‐based labor unions deny the accusations and label their critics as ultra leftists, splintering the labor movement and making it an ineffective defender of working class interests. Hence, the new law, far from delivering the hundreds of thousands of new union members that union leaders promised, has created a political nightmare for labor organizations in Puerto Rico. U.S. labor unions are at fault for contributing to the current divisions in the Puerto Rican labor movement, but all unions, including independent Puerto Rican unions, must find a way out of the deadlock to concentrate on their most important goal—represent their members and become effective leaders for the Puerto Rican working class.
Psychological, Medical, and Pharmacological Correlates of Persistent Genital Arousal Disorder
Authors: Leiblum Sandra , Seehuus Martin , Goldmeier David , Brown Candace
Published: August 2007

Introduction

Little is known about the etiology or medical/psychological correlates of persistent genital arousal disorder (PGAD).

Aim

The aims of this article were (i) to replicate the findings of earlier research identifying two subtypes of women with persistent arousal—those who meet all features of the condition and are at least moderately distressed, and those who meet only some features and are less distressed; and (ii) to identify the medical, psychological and/or pharmacological correlates of the condition.

Method

A comprehensive web-based survey of persistent genital arousal (PGA) was posted on several Internet websites. Of the 156 women who completed the survey, 76 met all five features qualifying for a persistent genital arousal disorder (PGAD) group, and 48 met only some features (non-PGAD group).

Main Outcome Measures

The main outcome measures were endorsement of diagnostic signs of depression, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and panic attack as well as medical illnesses and pharmacological preparations.

Results

Compared to non-PGA subjects, women with PGA were significantly more likely to be depressed (55% vs. 38%) and to report panic attacks (31.6% vs. 14.6%). They were more anxious and more likely to monitor their physical sensations. Both groups reported high rates of childhood and adult sexual abuse, although the PGA women reported a higher prevalence of sexual victimization. They were significantly more likely to endorse negative feelings about their genital sensations and also more likely to complain of chronic fatigue syndrome than women without the condition (10% vs. 0%). There were no significant relationships with pharmacologic agents and symptoms.

Conclusions

Women who met all the criteria of PGAD were more likely than women who only met some of the criteria to report depression, anxiety, panic attacks, and certain obsessive-compulsive symptoms such as monitoring their physical sensations. It is hypothesized that for a subset of women, psychological factors, namely anxiety, reinforce exacerbate and maintain PGAD.
Looking for Child Psychiatric Nursing—Vietnam 2005
Authors: Goren Suzanne
Published: August 2007

In Vietnam, child health services are primarily focused on nutritional and developmental concerns. Child mental health issues,including homelessness, adolescent suicide, and sex trafficking of children, are not currently governmental priorities.
Conducting a Children's Divorce Group: One Approach
Authors: Beverly Waldman Rich , Pat Molloy , Bernadette Hart , Susan Ginsberg , Trudy Mulvey
Published: August 2007

The disruptive period around the time of the divorce can shatter a child's entire living milieu. An 8‐week experiential children's group incorporating art and creative activities as well as a concurrent parent group is described. The aim of treatment was to bolster children's abilities to communicate with parents and other caretakers. Overall, participants were observed to effectively release painful affect, communicate more openly, and identify strengths in their family systems. Yalom's therapeutic group factors were incorporated into the treatment model. The research of Davies and Cummings related to children in the context of family therapy was also considered. Group leaders included advance practice registered nurses. Follow‐up objective data collected from participants might provide further information about the efficacy of the interventions.
How to Conclude the Doha Development Agenda Comment faire pour terminer le cycle de Doha sur le développement? Wie die Doha Development Agenda geschlossen werden kann
Authors: Häberli Christian
Published: August 2007

summary

How to Conclude the Doha Development Agenda

It is easier to launch a Round than to conclude it, and nice words won't do now. To save a trade negotiation which had already gotten off to a wrong start, and which has turned into a narrow lane focused on agriculture, is especially difficult when world trade is booming and only a few players can see benefits for themselves. Both a ‘quick fix’ and a ‘beef round’ are still possible, even though ambitious free‐traders will regret such an outcome. A drawn‐out pause, on the other hand, is a more likely yet not dramatic scenario. It could even be beneficial. Firstly, for re‐tabling the so‐called Singapore issues (investment, competition, government procurement). Secondly for reflecting on other issues with increasing importance: new multilateral rules for production and processing methods and, more broadly, tackling societal values through trade‐friendly methods such as labelling and international environmental and labour standards. Developing countries rightly fear a new face of protectionism behind such themes. But only a broad menu can lead to generally acceptable results. If it includes new issues the WTO can regain the lead in trade liberalisation. If it continues to ignore societal values, the multilateral trading system might be doomed.
Principal–Agent Analysis with One Agent and Two Principals: European Union Trade Negotiations with South Africa
Authors: Larsén Magdalena Frennhoff
Published: August 2007

This article explores the utility of using principal–agent analysis—both at the level of the Commission and the European Union (EU) as a whole—to explain EU decision making in the negotiations between the European Union and South Africa that led to the Trade, Development and Co‐operation Agreement of 1999. The article argues that the internal Commission negotiations, which are often overlooked in analyses of EU trade negotiations, need to be analyzed. It demonstrates that both the initial EU agenda and the final agreement with South Africa were heavily influenced by those Directorates‐General (DGs) most affected by these policy decisions. Moreover, the EU negotiators, who had developmental interests because of their location within DG Development, were particularly influential.
Four Wrongs Can Make a Right: From Stocks of Social Capital to Competing Ways of Life
Authors: Verweij Marco
Published: August 2007

In this review article, I sketch the contributions the cultural theory developed by Mary Douglas, Michael Thompson, Aaron Wildavsky, and others can make to the debate on social capital and collective action. First, I list the revisions and refinements of Robert Putnam's original social‐capital thesis that have been advocated during the last ten years. Thereafter, I contend that the cultural theory of Mary Douglas offers a powerful synthesis of the arguments made by both the proponents and opponents in the social‐capital debate. This synthesis renders our understanding of collective action more precise, practical, dynamic, differentiated, and less normatively biased. Last, I illustrate how this new analysis can be applied empirically with the help of a case study of the fall and rise of collective action in the Middle Hills of Nepal.
Implementation of the Welfare‐to‐Work Program in Arkansas
Authors: Reese Catherine C. , Harding David
Published: August 2007

How is success for Welfare‐to‐Work (WtW) programs defined, and is that definition adequate? This article assesses a snapshot of interagency communication in the 2000 Arkansas WtW program and its potential effects on the state's progress toward real welfare reform. Three key areas deemed necessary for successful implementation are explored: case management, inter‐agency communication, and goal congruence. Data for the evaluation were generated via surveys of agency personnel and program participants. The data reveal that interagency staff frequently disagree on responsibility for client assessment, that interagency staff do not always communicate effectively and seldom share data, and that staff from service providers and the Department of Human Services cite differing goals for the program they are charged with implementing. The authors reassess the adequacy of Arkansas' WtW program and suggest that in an era marked by systemic work‐related program reform, it is imperative that administrative linkages between state labor‐related agencies and personal welfare‐related agencies operate effectively.
Nifedipine‐sensitive noradrenergic vasoconstriction is enhanced in spontaneously hypertensive rats: the influence of chronic captopril treatment
Authors: Paulis L’. , Líšková S. , Pintérová M. , Dobešová Z. , Kuneš J. , Zicha J.
Published: August 2007

Aim: The relationship between increased sympathetic tone and enhanced activity of L‐type voltage‐dependent Ca2+channels (L‐VDCC) in spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) was studied usingin vivoandin vitroapproaches.

Methods: The effects of acute L‐VDCC blockade on sympathetic vasoconstriction or blood pressure (BP) and the contribution of calcium influx to norepinephrine (NE)‐induced arterial contraction were investigated in 10‐week‐old SHR and in age‐matched SHR made normotensive by chronic captopril treatment from weaning.

Results: Blood pressure fall occurring after acute ganglionic or L‐VDCC blockade was enhanced in SHR. Ganglionic blockade eliminated strain differences in BP response to acute L‐VDCC blockade andvice versa, suggesting that enhanced contribution of L‐VDCC is responsible for augmented sympathetic vasoconstriction in SHR. Both phasic (dependent on internal calcium stores) and tonic (dependent on calcium influx) contractions to NE were augmented in SHR femoral arteriesin vitro. Nifedipine attenuated only tonic contractions but to a larger extent in SHR than in WKY arteries. Nifedipine effect was greater after endothelium removal, which augmented tonic but not phasic contractions after NE. Chronic captopril treatment of SHR prevented hypertension development by suppression of their sympathetic vasoconstriction including its nifedipine‐sensitive component, but failed to influence enhanced NE‐induced arterial contractions or increased relaxation to nifedipinein vitro.

Conclusion: The contribution of nifedipine‐sensitive component to noradrenergic vasoconstriction is enhanced during excessive NE stimulation (increased sympathetic tone of SHRin vivoor supramaximal NE stimulationin vitro). It seems that captopril‐induced reduction of central sympathetic tone is able to normalize augmented nifedipine‐sensitive vasoconstriction in SHR.
Contemporary challenges to the German vocational training system
Authors: Thelen Kathleen
Published: August 2007

The German vocational training system has played a central role in sustaining the competitive strength of German manufacturing. This article provides an analysis of contemporary developments in this system to assess its likely future trajectory. I begin by underscoring the differences and similarities of the German system to alternative arrangements that have emerged in other countries. I then turn to recent trends in Germany that have caused concern among policy‐makers about the continued strength and viability of the vocational training system. I discuss reforms undertaken in the past few years that point to incremental, though possibly transformative, changes in the system designed to reduce costs and increase flexibility through renegotiations on two fronts: between general training standards and firm needs and training practices, and between the in‐plant and school‐based components of training.
Institutional competitiveness, social investment, and welfare regimes
Authors: Bernard Paul , Boucher Guillaume
Published: August 2007

Are the rather generous welfare regimes found in most European countries sustainable; that is, are they competitive in a globalizing economy? Or will they, on the contrary, be crowded out by the more austere and less expensive regimes generally found in liberal Anglo‐Saxon countries? We first discuss this issue conceptually, focusing on the notions of institutional competitiveness, social investment, and short‐term and long‐term productivity. We then briefly present the results of an empirical study of 50 social indicators of policies and outcomes in 20 Organization for Economic Co‐operation and Development (OECD) countries during the early 2000s. We conclude that welfare regimes have not been forced to converge through a “race to the bottom.” There remain three distinct ways to face the “trilemma” of job growth, income inequality, and fiscal restraint: Nordic countries achieve high labor market participation through high social investment; Anglo‐Saxon countries attain the same objective through minimal public intervention; while Continental European countries experience fiscal pressures because their social protection schemes are not promoting participation to the same extent.
Economic Status and Social Attitudes of Migrant Workers in China
Authors: Li Peilin , Li Wei
Published: August 2007

Migrant workers, meaning those who used to be farmers but have left rural areas and found jobs in cities as a result of economic reform and rapid development in China, have made a significant contribution to the burgeoning labor market and played an important role in speeding up the transition from a planned to a market economy. This present paper considers the economic status and social attitudes of migrant workers. It is based on the analysis of a large‐scale survey in 2006, which was conducted using questionnaires and covered 28 provinces, municipalities and autonomous regions throughout the country. It was found that the income status of migrant workers depends heavily on the education and technical skills that they have developed, rather than on identity‐based discrimination. Surprisingly, it was also found that those on less income and of lower economic and social status show more positive attitudes to society than those who are affluent and considered of higher social status. It is concluded that the decisive factor in attitude and behavior of migrant workers is historic rather than economic.
Deferred Executive Compensation Policies in Chinese State‐owned Enterprises
Authors: Ju Min
Published: August 2007

Since the commencement of industrial reform in China, most Chinese state‐owned enterprises have adopted a deferred executive compensation policy to provide incentives for their management teams. However, the effectiveness of such a policy needs to be evaluated. In this paper, we specify a model of deferred executive compensation policy, in which the compensation for executives is contingent on firms' future revenue. The model suggests that under deferred executive compensation policies, managers exhibit an increasing level of effort in every period. Furthermore, the deferred compensation policy encourages managers to make long‐term investments, which might generate revenue even after the termination of managerial contracts.
Responsibilities of China after Accession to the WTO
Authors: Pei Changhong , Peng Lei
Published: August 2007

China became a full member of the WTO on 11 December 2001. China has not only increased its presence in mainstream world trade but has gained knowledge about the basic rules of market economies and become more adaptable to changes in the international economy. As a new member of the WTO, being adaptable to changes in the international economy is essential. As a large developing country, China, with its rapid economic growth, huge volume of trade and substantial market potential, has exerted and will continue to exert profound influence on the world economy. It is commonly recognized that China's influence cannot be ignored in the world economy. Five years since its accession to the WTO, China is considering where it stands as a member of the WTO. What does China hope to achieve by being a member of the WTO, how can these hopes be shared among all trading partners, what is China's responsibility in this, and what are the responsibilities of other trading partners?