bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
IC disclosures in IPO prospectuses: evidence from Malaysia
Authors: Abdul Rashid Azwan , Kamil Ibrahim Muhd , Othman Radiah , Fong See Kok
Published: January 2012

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the factors influencing the disclosure of intellectual capital (IC) information in the Malaysian initial public offering (IPO) prospectus using multiple regression analysis.

Design/methodology/approach

The sample consists of 130 companies in the technology and industrial products sectors of Bursa Malaysia that went through an IPO between 2004 and 2008. Initially, the extent of the IC disclosure index is quantified using content analysis methodology. The multiple regression analysis is then used to examine the associations of nine potential explanatory variables with IC disclosure level.

Findings

In general, the results provide evidence that board size, board independence, age, leverage, underwriter and listing board significantly influence the extent of IC disclosure in an IPO prospectus. Nonetheless, the effect of each explanatory variable may vary in each estimated parameter of the multiple regression models. Three variables, board diversity, size and auditor, were not significant.

Originality/value

Although many studies have examined the content of and reasons for IC disclosures, this study provides empirical evidence in this specific area, i.e. to explore the determinants of IC disclosure, particularly from the perspective of IPO prospectuses, in emerging countries such as Malaysia.
Consumer interaction as intellectual capital
Authors: Sussan Fiona
Published: January 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to categorize customer‐to‐customer (C2C) interaction as a sub‐component of relational capital and conceptualize C2C interaction adding value to business‐to‐customer (B2C) relational capital.

Design/methodology/approach

This work empirically tests the concept of C2C interaction and its added value to a firm's B2C relationship within the movie industry. Both business data and consumer interaction from blockbuster movies are collected to test their impact on movie sales.

Findings

The results support the hypotheses that C2C interaction (user messages on Yahoo movie message board) adds more explanation to movie sales than B2C interaction (advertising budget) alone, and that there is an inverse relationship between the impact of a firm's B2C interaction and C2C interaction on a firm's sales performance, with the former diminishing over time and the latter increasing over time.

Research limitations/implications

For intellectual capital (IC) researchers, the main implication from the results of this paper is that the value of C2C is “in addition” to the existing customer relations already managed by the firm. The results of this paper confirm C2C relational capital within the movie context. Future research should use more textual‐based data to evaluate the positive and negative consumer interactions and their impact on IC value.

Practical implications

The findings of this paper stress the importance of practitioners, including the voice of customers in their financial reporting. Managers can now extract and incorporate the content of C2C interaction to a firm's day‐to‐day decision‐making process.

Originality/value

The originality of this paper resides in extending relational capital conceptual framework by dividing relational capital into B2C and C2C subcomponents, hypothesizing the added value of C2C interaction to B2C relational capital and the inverse relationship between B2C and C2C relational capital over time, and empirically providing a reference sample for practitioners for future IC reporting.
Intellectual capital and corporate performance of MNCs in Serbia
Authors: Komnenic Biserka , Pokrajčić Dragana
Published: January 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to empirically investigate if intellectual capital (IC) has an impact on organizational performance as well as to identify the IC components that may be the drivers of the traditional indicators of business success. The study sought evidence from the multinational companies which conduct their business in Serbia.

Design/methodology/approach

By using data from 37 multinational companies which established their business in Serbia from 2006 to 2008 and applying the VAIC methodology for generating independent variables which reflect IC, regression models were constructed to examine the relationships between the efficient use of MNCs' human and structural capital and corporate performance measures: return on assets, return on equity and productivity.

Findings

The results of this study reveal that human capital is positively associated with all three corporate performance measures. The hypothesis regarding a positive association between structural capital and MNCs' profitability and productivity has been confirmed only partially since the results indicate that the structural capital variable shows a statistically significant and positive relationship only with the performance measure ‐ return on equity.

Originality/value

This is the first empirical study conducted in Serbia testing the relationship between IC and organizational performance. It contributes to the existing IC literature by giving new insights into the IC of MNCs' subsidiaries established in Serbia and its relationship with their business performance.
IC performance of Indian pharmaceutical and textile industry
Authors: Pal Karam , Soriya Sushila
Published: January 2012

Purpose

The purpose of the present study is to make a comparison of intellectual capital performance between Indian pharmaceutical and textile industry. Further, the study attempts to investigate association between intellectual capital efficiency with financial performance and market valuation.

Design/methodology/approach

An empirical study was carried out on data collected from CMIE database Prowess. VAIC was calculated on a select sample of 105, pharmaceutical companies and 102, textile companies. Correlation and OLS regressions models are used on panel data for the analysis.

Findings

Results indicated that profitability and intellectual capital are positively associated but no significant relationship is observed between intellectual capital with productivity and market valuation in both industries. In spite of the growing importance of intellectual capital, its reflection is not proportionally observed in the financial performance of the select sample of companies.

Research limitations/implications

A more detailed study may be carried out taking the major knowledge‐intensive industries with cross‐section analysis to have better assessments of the results.

Practical implications

The present study extends the knowledge of academician and managers about intellectual capital performance and its impact on financial and market performance of the companies. They may enhance the profitability and productivity of the companies by proper utilization of intellectual capital.

Originality/value

Present study extends the knowledge of intellectual capital performance and its utilization for increasing the financial and market performance of the companies.
The use of virtual prototyping for hazard identification in the early design stage
Authors: King Chun Chan , Li Heng , Skitmore Martin
Published: January 2012

Purpose

The construction industry is well known for its high accident rate and many practitioners consider a preventative approach to be the most important means of bringing about improvements. The purpose of this paper is to address previous research and the weaknesses of existing preventative approaches and then to describe and illustrate a new application involving the use of a multi‐dimensional simulation tool – Construction Virtual Prototyping (CVP).

Design/methodology/approach

A literature review was conducted to investigate previous studies of hazard identification and safety management and to develop the new approach. Due to weaknesses in current practice, the research study explored the use of computer simulation techniques to create virtual environments where users can explore and identify construction hazards. Specifically, virtual prototyping technology was deployed to develop typical construction scenarios in which unsafe or hazardous incidents occur. In a case study, the users' performance was evaluated based on their responses to incidents within the virtual environment and the effectiveness of the computer simulation system established though interviews with the safety project management team.

Findings

The opinions and suggestions provided by the interviewees led to the initial conclusion that the simulation tool was useful in assisting the safety management team's hazard identification process during the early design stage.

Originality/value

The paper introduces an innovative method to support the management team's reviews of construction site safety. The system utilises three‐dimensional modelling and four‐dimensional simulation of worker behaviour, a configuration that has previously not been employed in construction simulations. An illustration of the method's use is also provided, together with a consideration of its strengths and weaknesses.
Ingredients to engender trust in construction project teams in Vietnam
Authors: Yean Yng Ling Florence , Bao Tram Tran Hoang
Published: January 2012

Purpose

A construction project typically involves many participants such as owners, consultants, contractors, subcontractors and suppliers. It is important for them to have harmonious relationships so that the project can be completed expeditiously. Trust is a critical factor to maintain harmonious relationships. The purpose of this paper is to investigate the ingredients to bring about trust in construction project teams in Vietnam. The specific objectives were to investigate the existence of personal trust, explore relationship between trust and project outcomes, and identify attributes that help to improve trust.

Design/methodology/approach

This research employed questionnaire survey as the research method and collected data via face‐to‐face and e‐mail interviews. The sample comprised randomly selected construction practitioners in Vietnam. Data were analyzed using the SPSS software.

Findings

The results showed that trust exists between members of construction project team members in Vietnam. It was found that trust can leverage project quality and client satisfaction. In this regard, a number of factors were found to be significantly important to the development of trust.

Research limitations/implications

The sample size was relatively small.

Practical implications

When operating in Vietnam, practitioners should adopt a long‐term mindset so as to develop trust. They should also select partners who have good reputations as these are more trustworthy.

Originality/value

This study contributes to knowledge by showing that trust exists between individuals participating in construction projects in Vietnam and it leads to higher output quality and client satisfaction. Unique attributes to increase trust in Vietnam were also uncovered.
Multi‐storey wood‐frame buildings in Germany, Sweden and the UK
Authors: Mahapatra Krushna , Gustavsson Leif , Hemström Kerstin
Published: January 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to analyse the influence of regulations, perceptions, and promotions on the emergence of an innovation system for wood‐framed multi‐storey buildings in Germany, Sweden and the United Kingdom (UK).

Design/methodology/approach

This descriptive paper made a qualitative analysis of information collected mainly from secondary sources such as reports, newspapers, journal publications, conference proceedings and general internet search.

Findings

Results showed that the conditions for market growth of multi‐storey construction seemed to be the most favourable in Sweden followed by the UK and Germany. The regulations are stringent in Germany, followed by the UK and Sweden. In all countries, the construction professionals seemed to have negative perceptions regarding engineering properties of wood. Similar negative perceptions exist among the general public in Germany and the UK, but not in Sweden. The wood construction promotional activities in Germany and the UK are directed to all types of houses, while in Sweden multi‐storey buildings are targeted.

Research limitations/implications

An important implication of this paper was that it highlighted the usefulness of cross‐country surveys at the European level, in order to better understand observed differences in the adoption of innovative systems. However, there might be shortcomings in the comparability of the information across the countries analysed because it was difficult to make an objective assessment of the claims made in some of the information sources. Also, there was varying and limited information about the survey methodologies used in some of the reviewed studies.

Practical implications

The study showed that market intervention is needed to promote radical or really new innovations such as wood construction. The variations in the promotional measures undertaken partly explained the variations in growth of wood construction system in the three countries.

Originality/value

The paper applied a theoretical framework on technology transition to analyse emergence of wood construction system in Germany, Sweden and the UK. The framework can be applied to analyse the development of wood construction system in other countries also.
Unveiling relationships between contractor inputs and performance outputs
Authors: Tao Lijuan , Kumaraswamy Mohan
Published: January 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to unveil any underlying relationships between contractor inputs and performance outputs. The outcome of the reported study is intended to help identify the inputs, which have more significant impacts on contractor performance outputs and therefore, help formulate more reliable “upfront” (ex ante) performance assessment criteria, hence improving approaches to the contractor‐selection process.

Design/methodology/approach

A case study was conducted on the Performance Assessment Scoring System (PASS) of a large public client in Hong Kong to determine the Pearson product‐moment correlation between the scores of various input assessments and output assessments.

Findings

The findings revealed relationships between some of the input assessment scores and the output results. Emerging as positive, all the discerned relationships confirmed that better outputs did in fact relate well to better inputs.

Research limitations/implications

The PASS system is designed to be very objective, hence the criteria and assessment of inputs may be restricted to easily measurable items. The sample size obtainable was small, but still considered to be adequate for this initial study.

Practical implications

Construction clients could choose to improve their contractor selection processes by identifying and incorporating contractor input factors that are seen to influence performance outputs. Contractors can also improve their outputs by focusing on the identified critical inputs.

Originality/value

Few studies have sought to discern relationships between contractor inputs and their performance outputs through a quantitative approach. This case study provided a methodology, incorporating a statistics‐based approach along with examples and explanations of how inputs can influence contractor outputs.
Aspects of off‐site manufacturing application towards sustainable construction in Malaysia
Authors: Hamid Zuhairi Abd. , Anuar Mohamad Kamar Kamarul
Published: January 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to identify the contribution of off‐site manufacturing application towards sustainable construction.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper looks at different views and ideas of sustainable construction and assesses the impact of off‐site manufacturing towards sustainability.

Findings

Many aspects of off‐site manufacturing practices and applications are contributing to sustainable construction.

Originality/value

The paper is of value as it outlines to researcher and practitioner on the values of off‐site manufacturing, i.e. on environmental impacts, ease of construction, construction time saving and construction waste management.
Towards a new paradigm in migrant health research: integrating entitlement, access and appropriateness
Authors: Watters Charles
Published: January 2012

Purpose

This paper aims to first demonstrate the prevalence and methodological and theoretical limitations of approaches oriented towards either migrants entitlement or their access to health care; and, second, to demonstrate an alternative approach involving a conceptual and analytical framework that integrates these perspectives as levels of analysis within a holistic model.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper consists of three brief case studies each demonstrating particular difficulties in adopting either policy oriented “entitlement” approaches or practice driven orientations examining migrants access to health care. Each case study will examine briefly an aspect of the policy and legal frameworks within which health care is delivered to immigrants. The studies encompass the phenomenon of “hidden” immigrant children in Sweden, migrants crossing the Spanish border from North Africa, and asylum seekers in the UK.

Findings

The case studies form a basis for presenting an integrated model encompassing a multi‐level framework for examining the health care of migrant populations.

Originality/value

The international applicability of the model is discussed drawing further on the author's work as scientific advisor to the EU on immigrant health and as lead researcher in a four country EU study into refugee health and social care.
Axel Springer's sustainability entrepreneurialism in Russian wood supply: just a CSR fad or real change in the makings?
Authors: Peters Nils
Published: January 2012

Subject area

Entrepreneurship, Corporate sustainability, CSR, Supply chain.

Study level/applicability

Master's courses: Entrepreneurship, Strategic management.

Case overview

In 2002, potential risks deriving from emerging normative demands in the CSR debate prompted Axel Springer (AS) to rethink their supply chain strategy for Russian wood. Being one of the first movers in CSR in the publishing business, AS realized that current practices could spark future public discussion that might put pressure on AS, a key player in these supply chains. In early 2002, AS and one of their main suppliers, Stora Enso, started a joint initiative to redesign the supply chain processes in two of the major Russian logging regions to improve their social and ecological performance. Sometime later, other major players in the publishing sector as well as critical reviewers from several non-governmental organizations (NGOs) were invited to participate in the design of the new voluntary sustainability initiative called “Tikhvin Chalna project”, the second phase of which was accomplished by the end of 2006.

Expected learning outcomes

Learn that organizations (specifically high-brand owners) are responsible for practices within their entire supply chains (social as well as environmental performance).

Explore proactive corporate sustainability, CSR strategies are market but also institutional driven; Strategizing involves forming and transforming the rules, norms and standard models of customers as well as institutions such as NGOs or governmental bodies. Whether the initiator of such strategy is successful in increasing or manipulating demands is dependent on its resources and capabilities as well as on its network position. The case supports students in understanding resources being used to successfully transform or create institutional arrangements.

Discover that the value of a business' relationships and its network position.

Supplementary materials

Teaching note, Video files
Gulfire: in line of fire
Authors: Shambavi Rajagopal , Ramanan Sitalakshmi
Published: January 2012

Subject area

Marketing Communication.

Study level/applicability

At the undergraduate level, this case can be used in marketing courses such as Marketing Fundamentals, Marketing Management, Marketing Communication and Consumer Behavior. This case may also be used for Master's level students for Quality when focusing on safety/security in offices and factories.

Case overview

This case is used to introduce the concept of B2B and B2C marketing and explore the possibilities of converting an industry that essentially uses B2B marketing communication to choose B2C options. This case is also important for creating awareness on safety and preventive measures in the face of a fire crisis.

Expected learning outcomes

Understanding the role of marketing communication. Differentiating between B2B and B2C markets. Exploring the application of B2C marketing communication in the fire suppression systems market in the Middle East.

Supplementary materials

Teaching notes.
VSL collaborative online business events
Authors: Chauhan Roma
Published: January 2012

Subject area

The case is related to strategy of innovation, strategic marketing and brand valuation.

Student level/applicability

The case consolidates techniques and methodologies of businesses that demonstrate use of technology and innovation to attain competitive edge. It is appropriate for Master's, executive level programme and advance specialized courses of strategy and entrepreneurship. Introductory classes on basics of strategy and information technology will be value add for students.

Case overview

In the growing digital era of virtualization, the businesses are depended on technology to facilitate their multiple operations. Virtual events of conference and exhibition provide broad opportunity to connect and collaborate in real time across the globe. The case discussion applies to potential use of virtual platform as a collaborative tool to achieve business objectives. This case highlights the strategic decision making by an IT company – VSL, regarding product migration and services diversification. It focuses on considering the appropriate strategy of innovation and to make the right decisions. Strategy of innovation and marketing techniques applied by VSL management to sustain in the competitive environment describes the essence of the case. The case is written with the objective to enhance user conceptual understanding through VSL brand valuation and international strategic alliance with 6Connex.

Expected learning outcomes

The case familiarises the students with the complexities and challenges involved in a real business environment and put emphasises on the role of played by management for effective decision making. The case helps students to comprehend the relevance of innovation to achieve competitive edge. The case provides an opportunity of exposure to students so that they can understand the key elements of efficient marketing, strategy of innovation and brand valuation. (Elaborate teaching objectives are appended in the teaching note.)

Supplementary material

Teaching notes.
Fibroblast progenitor cells are recruited into the myocardium prior to the development of myocardial fibrosis
Authors: Sopel Mryanda , Falkenham Alec , Oxner Adam , Ma Irene , Lee Timothy D.G. , Légaré Jean‐Francois
Published: January 2012

Using an established model of myocardial hypertrophy and fibrosis after angiotensin II (AngII) infusion, our aim was to characterize the early cellular element involved in the development of myocardial fibrosis in detail. Male Lewis rats were infused with saline or AngII (0.7 mg/kg per day) for up to seven days. Collagen deposition and cellular infiltration were identified by histology stains. Infiltrating cells were grown in vitro and examined by flow cytometry and immunostaining. Chemokine expression was measured using qRT‐PCR. AngII infusion resulted in multifocal myocardial cellular infiltration (peak at three days) that preceded collagen deposition. Monocyte chemotactic protein (MCP)‐1 transcripts peaked after one day of AngII exposure. Using a triple‐labelling technique, the infiltrating cells were found to express markers of leucocyte (ED1+), mesenchymal [α‐smooth muscle actin (SMA)+] and haematopeotic progenitor cells (CD133+) suggesting a fibroblast progenitor phenotype. In vitro, ED1+/SMA+/CD133+ cells were isolated and grown from AngII‐exposed animals. Comparatively few cells were cultured from untreated control hearts, and they were found to be ED1−/SMA+/CD133−. We provide evidence that myocardial ECM deposition is preceded by infiltration into the myocardium by cells that express a combination of haematopoietic (ED1, CD133) and mesenchymal (SMA) cell markers, which is a characteristic of the phenotype of fibroblast precursor cells, termed fibrocytes. This suggests that fibrocytes rather than (as is often presumed) leucocytes may have effector functions in the initiation of myocardial fibrosis.
Abiotic stress‐inducible receptor‐like kinases negatively control ABA signaling in Arabidopsis
Authors: Tanaka Hidenori , Osakabe Yuriko , Katsura Shogo , Mizuno Shinji , Maruyama Kyonoshin , Kusakabe Kazuya , Mizoi Junya , Shinozaki Kazuo , Yamaguchi‐Shinozaki Kazuko
Published: January 2012

Membrane‐anchored receptor‐like protein kinases (RLKs) recognize extracellular signals at the cell surface and activate the downstream signaling pathway by phosphorylating specific target proteins. We analyzed a receptor‐like cytosolic kinase (RLCK) gene, ARCK1, whose expression was induced by abiotic stress. ARCK1 belongs to the cysteine‐rich repeat (CRR) RLK sub‐family and encodes a cytosolic protein kinase. The arck1 mutant showed higher sensitivity than the wild‐type to ABA and osmotic stress during the post‐germinative growth phase. CRK36, an abiotic stress‐inducible RLK belonging to the CRR RLK sub‐family, was screened as a potential interacting factor with ARCK1 by co‐expression analyses and a yeast two‐hybrid system. CRK36 physically interacted with ARCK1 in plant cells, and the kinase domain of CRK36 phosphorylated ARCK1 in vitro. We generated CRK36 RNAi transgenic plants, and found that transgenic plants with suppressed CRK36 expression showed higher sensitivity than arck1‐2 to ABA and osmotic stress during the post‐germinative growth phase. Microarray analysis using CRK36 RNAi plants revealed that suppression of CRK36 up‐regulates several ABA‐responsive genes, such as LEA genes, oleosin, ABI4 and ABI5. These results suggest that CRK36 and ARCK1 form a complex and negatively control ABA and osmotic stress signal transduction.
Activation of cardiac M3 muscarinic acetylcholine receptors has cardioprotective effects against ischaemia‐induced arrhythmias
Authors: Wang Shu , Han Hong‐Mei , Jiang Ya‐Nan , Wang Chao , Song Hao‐Xin , Pan Zhen‐Yu , Fan Kai , Du Juan , Fan Yu‐Hua , Du Zhi‐Min , Liu Yan
Published: January 2012

Increasing evidence indicates the important roles of M3 muscarinic acetylcholine receptors (M3 mAChR) in the regulation and maintenance of cardiac function and heart disease. In the present study, we investigated whether the M3 mAChR mediates the cardioprotection against ischaemia‐induced arrhythmias and the mechanisms involved.

Myocardial ischaemia was established in Wistar rats by occlusion of the left anterior descending coronary artery. Rats were treated with choline chloride (an M3 mAChR agonist; 10 mg/kg, i.v.) 10 min before occlusion. In addition, 4‐diphenylacetoxy‐N‐methylpiperidine‐methiodide (4‐DAMP; 0.12 μg/kg, i.v.) was administered 5 min before choline in the 4‐DAMP‐treated group. Ischaemia‐induced arrhythmias were evaluated in each group for a period of 1 h after occlusion. After 24 h occlusion, protein and mRNA levels of L‐type Ca2+ channels and the Na+/Ca2+ exchanger (NCX) were determined.

Ischaemia‐induced arrhythmias following coronary artery occlusion were diminished by choline and this effect was reversed in the 4‐DAMP‐treated group. In vitro, the effects of myocardial ischaemia were simulated by incubating isolated ventricular cardiomyocytes with Tyrode's solution (pH 6.8). Intracellular Ca2+ overload was confirmed and this was decreased by choline. Furthermore, choline reduced the L‐type Ca2+ current (ICa,L) compared with cardiomyocytes incubated in Tyrode's solution (pH 6.8) alone. Choline reduced the ‘ischaemia’‐induced upregulated expression of L‐type Ca2+ channels and NCX at both the protein and mRNA level.

Based on these results, choline has an obvious protective effect against ischaemia‐induced arrhythmias that is mediated via activation of cardiac M3 mAChR, which reduces Ca2+ overload mediated by L‐type Ca2+ channels and the NCX.
An astrocyte‐specific enhancer of the aquaporin‐4 gene functions through a consensus sequence of POU transcription factors in concert with multiple upstream elements
Authors: Abe Yoichiro , Ikeshima‐Kataoka Hiroko , Goda Wakami , Niikura Takako , Yasui Masato
Published: January 2012

J. Neurochem. (2012) 120, 899–912.

Aquaporin‐4, a predominant water channel in the brain, is specifically expressed in astrocyte endfeet and plays a central role in water homeostasis, neuronal activity, and cell migration in the brain. It has two dominant isoforms called M1 and M23, whose mRNA is driven by distinct promoters located upstream of exons 0 and 1 of the aquaporin‐4 gene, respectively. To identify cis‐acting elements responsible for the astrocyte‐specific transcription of M1 mRNA, the promoter activity of the 5′‐flanking region upstream of exon 0 in primary cultured mouse astrocytes was examined by luciferase assay, and sequences, where nuclear factors bind, were identified by electrophoretic mobility shift assay. An astrocyte‐specific activity enhancing transcription from the M1 promoter was observed within ∼2 kb from the transcriptional start sites of M1 mRNA. At least five elements clustered within the 286‐bp region were found to function as a novel astrocyte‐specific enhancer. Among the five elements, a consensus sequence of Pit‐1/Oct/Unc‐86 (POU) transcription factors was indispensable to the astrocyte‐specific enhancer since disruption of the POU motif completely abolished the enhancer activity in astrocytes. However, the POU motif alone had little activity, indicating the requirement for cooperation with other upstream elements to exert full enhancer activity.
Pharmacological maintenance of protein homeostasis could postpone age‐related disease
Authors: Alavez Silvestre , Lithgow Gordon J.
Published: January 2012

Over the last 10 years, various screens of small molecules have been conducted to find long sought interventions in aging. Most of these studies were performed in invertebrates but the demonstration of pharmacological lifespan extension in the mouse has created considerable excitement. Since aging is a common risk factor for several chronic diseases, there is a reasonable expectation that some compounds capable of extending lifespan will be useful for preventing a range of age‐related diseases. One of the potential targets is protein aggregation which is associated with several age‐related diseases. Genetic studies have long indicated that protein homeostasis is a critical component of longevity but recently a series of chemicals have been identified in the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans that lead to the maintenance of the homeostatic network and extend lifespan. Herein we review these interventions in C. elegans and consider the potential of improving health by enhancing protein homeostasis.
Collaborative Partnerships and Crime in Disorganized Communities
Authors: Choi Cheon Geun , Choi Sang Ok
Published: January 2012

Collaborative partnerships can be an effective strategy for crime prevention, especially in disorganized communities. Using ordinary least squares regression with 414 American cities, this article finds that police departments with many collaborative partnerships are able to promote informal social control within their communities and capitalize on the resources available to them with the help of other groups. This contention is supported by the effects of collaborative partnerships on crime rates in disorganized communities in comparison to well‐organized communities. Thus, collaborative partnerships of public organizations with other groups may insulate disorganized communities from the effects of community disorganization on levels of crime.
Sensitive Determination of Barbiturates in Biological Matrix by Capillary Electrophoresis Using Online Large‐Volume Sample Stacking*
Authors: Fan Liu‐Yin , He Ting , Tang Yun‐Yun , Zhang Wei , Song Chao‐Jin , Zhao Xia , Zhao Xiao‐Yu , Cao Cheng‐Xi
Published: January 2012

Abstract:  In China, some forensic cases are caused by barbiturates. Thus, the determination of trace level barbiturates in body fluid is important for the poisoning investigation. In this study, an online large‐volume sample stacking (LVSS) with polarity switching in capillary electrophoresis (CE) was applied for the sensitive determination of barbiturates. This technique involves injecting a large volume of sample into a capillary and removing the sample matrix plug out of the capillary by reversing the polarity. Quantitation limit obtained was 0.048, 0.057, 0.039, and 0.015 μg/mL for secobarbital, amobarbital, barbital, and phenobarbital (signal‐to‐noise ratio = 9). By using LVSS, the stacking was simply achieved at 171.7‐, 169.7‐, 202.7‐, and 169.1‐fold for the above four barbiturates. The relative standard deviation values of intraday and interday were <2.11% and 4.69%, respectively. Recoveries were ranged from 83.7 to 105.2%. Finally, the trace analysis method was applied to the analysis of real forensic specimens and has achieved satisfactory results.
Herpes Simplex I virus impairs regenerative outcomes of periodontal regenerative therapy in intrabony defects. A pilot study
Authors: Bertoldi Carlo , Pellacani Chiara , Lalla Michele , Consolo Ugo , Pinti Marcello , Cortellini Pierpaolo , Cossarizza Andrea
Published: January 2012

Aim

To evaluate the impact of herpesvirus type‐1 and ‐2 on the clinical outcomes of periodontal regenerative procedures in isolated deep intrabony pockets, in an experimental population with no detectable periodontal pathogens.

Materials and Methods

Seventeen periodontal intraosseous defects in 17 moderate‐to‐advanced periodontitis patients were treated with regenerative therapy and amelogenins. Microbiological evaluation was performed at baseline (after the completion of initial therapy) and at 1 year to exclude the presence of periodontal pathogens. Herpesviruses‐1 and ‐2 DNA were quantified in the pocket tissues associated to the intrabony defect using molecular assays. Clinical attachment level (CAL), probing pocket depth (PPD) and gingival recession (REC) were recorded at baseline and at 1 year.

Results

After 1 year, the 17 defects resulted in significant CAL gain, PPD reduction and REC increase. HSV‐1 was detected in five patients. Herpesvirus‐2 was never found. The two subpopulations positive or negative to herpesvirus‐1 were homogeneous at baseline. At 1 year, the five herpesvirus‐1 positive patients resulted in lower amounts of CAL‐gain and PPD reduction and greater amount of REC with respect to the 12 herpesvirus‐1 negative patients.

Conclusions

The presence of herpesvirus‐1 at baseline is associated with poor clinical outcomes following regenerative therapy.
Serum levels of 25‐hydroxyvitamin D, oral health and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Authors: Zhou Xuan , Han Jing , Song Yiqing , Zhang Jing , Wang Zuomin
Published: January 2012

Aim

To evaluate the associations of serum 25‐Hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] levels with periodontal health and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Material and Methods

We conducted a case–control study of 193 COPD patients and 181 controls. Their periodontal status and lung function were examined, and serum 25(OH)D levels were measured.

Results

Mean serum 25(OH)D concentrations were significantly lower in the COPD group than in the controls (32.1 versus 35.8 nmol/l; p = 0.002). Serum 25(OH)D concentrations were positively correlated with lung function among non‐smokers and negatively correlated with plaque index (PLI) among former smokers. After adjustment for age, gender, body mass index, season and smoking status, periodontal indexes were significantly associated with serum 25(OH)D concentrations (number of remaining teeth among all groups; probing depth, clinical attachment level, bleeding index, PLI and alveolar bone loss among COPD group). Lower serum 25(OH)D concentrations were significantly associated with an increased risk of COPD among former smokers (Odd ratio 4.11; 95% confidence interval 1.47–11.5; p = 0.007) after adjustment for periodontal indexes and other variables.

Conclusions

Lower serum 25(OH)D concentrations were significantly associated with poor periodontal health and an increased risk of COPD.
Twelve‐hour daytime observation of voiding pattern in newborns <4 weeks of age
Authors: Chen Yan , Wen Jian Guo , Li Yan , Li Yi Dong , Li Zhen Zhen , Konttinen Yrjö T
Published: January 2012

Aim:  To investigate the voiding pattern in <4‐week‐old newborns by 12‐h daytime observation periods.

Methods:  Twenty‐one healthy 1‐ to 28‐day‐old newborns were included (10 full term, 11 preterm). The 12‐h free voiding parameters, including voiding frequency (VF), voiding volume (VV), post‐voiding residual volumes (PRV) and status at voiding (awake/sleep), were recorded at day 1, 4, 7, 14 and 28 after birth.

Results:  Voiding was recorded 778 times. VF increased in the full‐term and preterm newborns between day 4 and 7, decreased in preterms between day 14 and 28, but remained higher than in the full terms. VV increased twice in full terms and once in preterms during 28 days and PRV fluctuated. In contrast, VV was higher in the full term than in the preterms at days 4, 7, 14 and 28. PRV was higher at days 4 and 28. Interrupted voiding was less frequent in the full term than in the preterms.

Conclusion:  Voiding pattern in the preterms differed in many ways from that of the full‐term newborns. Frequent interrupted and incomplete voiding pattern in the preterm newborns indicates a disrupted coordination of the detrusor–sphincter and a delayed maturation of the neural micturition centre.
Effects of domperidone on QTc interval in infants
Authors: Vieira MC , Miyague NI , Van Steen K , Salvatore S , Vandenplas Y
Published: January 2012

Aim:  To prospectively evaluate the effects of oral domperidone on the QTc interval in infants.

Methods:  Infants (0–1 year) with a diagnosis of gastro‐oesophageal reflux (GOR) disease were included. A 12‐lead electrocardiography (ECG) was performed in all infants at baseline and 1 h after the intake of domperidone after 7–14 days; the corrected QTc interval was calculated by one investigator (MV) according to Bazett’s formula.

Results:  Forty‐five infants were enroled in this study. The mean gestational age was of 38.6 weeks (35.5–42.0), and the mean age at the start of domperidone was 75.3 days (19–218 days). No statistically significant difference in corrected QTc was observed between baseline and the second ECG (0.389 ± 0.02 vs. 0.397 ± 0.31; p 0.130)). A trend was observed regarding gender: Although there was no difference in QTc change in girls (p 0.622), there was a strong trend in boys (p 0.051). Two infants (both boys) had a clinically significant QTc prolongation (>460 msec) without symptoms. The Spearman correlation test showed no relation between the QTc change and age (r: −0.05822; p 0.7284). There was no relation between domperidone dosage and QTc change.

Conclusion:  Overall, the group‐analysis showed no statistical significant difference in QTc duration induced by domperidone. However, 2/45 (4.4%) infants had a prolonged QTc interval (>460 msec) induced by domperidone. As a consequence, QTc measurement should be recommended in routine in infants when domperidone is started.
1‐Benzyl‐1,2,3,4‐Tetrahydro‐β‐Carboline as Channel Blocker of N‐Methyl‐d‐Aspartate Receptors
Authors: Espinoza‐Moraga Marlene , Caballero Julio , Gaube Friedemann , Winckler Thomas , Santos Leonardo S.
Published: January 2012

N‐methyl‐d‐aspartate (NMDA) receptors belong to the family of ligand‐gated ion channels and are important for synaptic plasticity and memory function. The NMDA receptor consists of a voltage‐dependent channel permeable to Ca2+ and Na+. In Alzheimer’s disease, neuronal degeneration is thought to cause an excessive release of glutamate to the extracellular space, which may in turn mediate prolonged stimulation of the NMDA receptor complex and, as a consequence, excessive calcium influx into neuronal cells, leading to subsequent cell death. This process is called glutamate‐induced excitotoxicity, and its inhibition may present an effective antidementive therapy. We found that 1‐benzyl‐1,2,3,4‐tetrahydro‐β‐carboline (1a) blocked NMDA receptor–mediated, glutamate‐induced excitotoxicity with an IC50 value of 27.4 μm, whereas the closely related 1‐phenyl‐1,2,3,4‐tetrahydro‐β‐carboline (1b) had no effect. The binding modes of the reported compounds were studied by in silico docking simulations. We demonstrate that compounds (S)‐1a and (R)‐1a, but not (S)‐1b and (R)‐1b, have the same characteristics of potent NMDA receptor blockers, because they establish the main interactions inside the vestibule region of the receptor described previously for the high‐affinity NMDA receptor blocker, MK‐801.
Structural and biochemical characteristics of various white adipose tissue depots
Authors: Wronska A. , Kmiec Z.
Published: January 2012

It is now widely accepted that white adipose tissue (WAT) is not merely a fuel storage organ, but also a key component of metabolic homoeostatic mechanisms. Apart from its major role in lipid and glucose metabolism, adipose tissue is also involved in a wide array of other biological processes. The hormones and adipokines, as well as other biologically active agents released from fat cells, affect many physiological and pathological processes. WAT is neither uniform nor inflexible because it undergoes constant remodelling, adapting the size and number of adipocytes to changes in nutrients’ availability and hormonal milieu. Fat depots from different areas of the body display distinct structural and functional properties and have disparate roles in pathology. The two major types of WAT are visceral fat, localized within the abdominal cavity and mediastinum, and subcutaneous fat in the hypodermis. Visceral obesity correlates with increased risk of insulin resistance and cardiovascular diseases, while increase of subcutaneous fat is associated with favourable plasma lipid profiles. Visceral adipocytes show higher lipogenic and lipolytic activities and produce more pro‐inflammatory cytokines, while subcutaneous adipocytes are the main source of leptin and adiponectin. Moreover, adipose tissue associated with skeletal muscles (intramyocellular and intermuscular fat) and with the epicardium is believed to provide fuels for skeletal and cardiac muscle contraction. However, increased mass of either epicardial or intermuscular adipose tissue correlates with cardiovascular risk, while the presence of the intramyocellular fat is a risk factor for the development of insulin resistance. This review summarizes results of mainly human studies related to the differential characteristics of various WAT depots.
Human thermoregulation and the cardiovascular system
Authors: González‐Alonso José
Published: January 2012

A key but little understood function of the cardiovascular system is to exchange heat between the internal body tissues, organs and the skin to maintain internal temperature within a narrow range in a variety of conditions that produce vast changes in external (exogenous) and/or internal (endogenous) thermal loads. Heat transfer via the flowing blood (i.e. vascular convective heat transfer) is the most important heat‐exchange pathway inside the body. This pathway is particularly important when metabolic heat production increases many‐fold during exercise. During exercise typical of many recreational and Olympic events, heat is transferred from the heat‐producing contracting muscles to the skin surrounding the exercising limbs and to the normally less mobile body trunk and head via the circulating blood. Strikingly, a significant amount of heat produced by the contracting muscles is liberated from the skin of the exercising limbs. The local and central mechanisms regulating tissue temperature in the exercising limbs, body trunk and head are essential to avoid the deleterious consequences on human performance of either hyperthermia or hypothermia. This brief review focuses on recent literature addressing the following topics: (i) the dynamics of heat production in contracting skeletal muscle; (ii) the influence of exercise and environmental heat and cold stress on limb and systemic haemodynamics; and (iii) the impact of changes in muscle blood flow on heat exchange in human limbs. The paper highlights the need to investigate the responses and mechanisms of vascular convective heat exchange in exercising limbs to advance our understanding of local tissue temperature regulation during exercise and environmental stress.
Local sweating on the forehead, but not forearm, is influenced by aerobic fitness independently of heat balance requirements during exercise
Authors: Cramer Matthew N. , Bain Anthony R. , Jay Ollie
Published: January 2012

The present study investigated the influence of maximal oxygen uptake (
) on local steady‐state sudomotor responses to exercise, independently of evaporative requirements for heat balance (Ereq). Eleven fit (F;
61.9 ± 6.0 ml kg−1 min−1) and 10 unfit men (UF;
40.4 ± 3.8 ml kg−1 min−1) cycled for 60 min at an air temperature of 24.5 ± 0.8°C and ambient humidity of 0.9 ± 0.3 kPa at a set metabolic heat production per unit surface area, producing the same Ereq in all participants (BAL trial) and, in a second trial, at 60% of
. During the BAL trial, absolute power (F 107 ± 2 and UF 102 ± 2 W; P= 0.126), Ereq (F 175 ± 5 and UF 176 ± 9 W m−2; P= 0.855), steady‐state whole‐body sweat rate (F 0.44 ± 0.02 and UF 0.47 ± 0.02 mg cm−2 min−1; P= 0.385) and local sweat rate on the arm (F 0.29 ± 0.03 and UF 0.35 ± 0.03 mg cm−2 min−1; P= 0.129) were not different between groups; however, local sweat rate on the forehead in UF (1.67 ± 0.20 mg cm−2 min−1) was almost double (P= 0.002) that of F (0.87 ± 0.11 mg cm−2 min−1). Heart rate, ratings of perceived exertion and relative exercise intensity were also significantly greater in UF (P < 0.05). There was a trend towards an elevated minute ventilation in UF (P= 0.052), while end‐tidal
was significantly lower in UF (P= 0.028). At 60%
, absolute power (F 174 ± 6 and UF 110 ± 5 W; P < 0.001), Ereq (F 291 ± 14 and UF 190 ± 17 W m−2; P < 0.001), steady‐state whole‐body sweat rate (F 0.84 ± 0.05 and UF 0.53 ± 0.03 mg cm−2 min−1; P < 0.001) and local sweat rate on the arm (F 0.75 ± 0.04 and UF 0.35 ± 0.03 mg cm−2 min−1; P < 0.001) and on the forehead (F 2.92 ± 0.42 and UF 1.68 ± 0.23 mg cm−2 min−1; P= 0.022) were all significantly greater in F compared with UF. Heart rate and ratings of perceived exertion were similar at all time points (P > 0.05). Significantly greater minute ventilation (P < 0.001) and end‐tidal
responses (P= 0.017) were found in F. In conclusion, aerobic fitness alters local sweating on the forehead, but not the forearm, independently of evaporative requirements for heat balance, and may be the result of differential control of sweating in these skin areas associated with the relative intensity of exercise.