bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
How to engage medical students in chronobiology: an example on autorhythmometry
Authors: Rol de Lama M. A. , Lozano J. P. , Ortiz V. , Sánchez-Vázquez F. J. , Madrid J. A.
Published: August 2005

This contribution describes a new laboratory experience that improves medical students’ learning of chronobiology by introducing them to basic chronobiology concepts as well as to methods and statistical analysis tools specific for circadian rhythms. We designed an autorhythmometry laboratory session where students simultaneously played the role of researchers and experimental subjects. During this session, which lasted 24 h, students recorded their own arterial pressure, heart rate, oral temperature, forced expiratory flow, glucose tolerance, muscular strength, reaction time, and sensorimotor coordination at regular intervals and also took the Horne and Östberg test, after which they analyzed their own data. Furthermore, to gather information from subjects under normal sleep and eating schedules, some students acquired data at home. To guide and help students with their work, a dedicated web page was implemented with scientific references, cosinor analysis software, and other valuable information. All these “raw” data were combined into a single database that students could use to evaluate whatever aspect of the data they seemed fit. A number of suggestions were offered to them as guidance. Students were then instructed to write a scientific article on the subject they had chosen. The experience was highly rewarding for both instructors and students alike. In view of the high level of absenteeism in Spanish universities and the fact that 93% of the students attended the exam and 95% of these passed, the experience was considered a great success.
An experimental approach to the fundamental principles of hemodynamics
Authors: Pontiga Francisco , Gaytán Susana P.
Published: August 2005

An experimental model has been developed to give students hands-on experience with the fundamental laws of hemodynamics. The proposed experimental setup is of simple construction but permits the precise measurements of physical variables involved in the experience. The model consists in a series of experiments where different basic phenomena are quantitatively investigated, such as the pressure drop in a long straight vessel and in an obstructed vessel, the transition from laminar to turbulent flow, the association of vessels in vascular networks, or the generation of a critical stenosis. Through these experiments, students acquire a direct appreciation of the importance of the parameters involved in the relationship between pressure and flow rate, thus facilitating the comprehension of more complex problems in hemodynamics.
Prevalence of blood circulation misconceptions among prospective elementary teachers
Authors: Pelaez Nancy J. , Boyd Denise D. , Rojas Jacqueline B. , Hoover Mildred A.
Published: August 2005

Research shows that misconceptions about human blood circulation and gas exchange persist across grade levels. The purpose of this study was twofold: 1) to investigate the prevalence and persistence of blood circulation misconceptions among prospective elementary teachers and 2) to evaluate the effectiveness of learning activities for discovering what students know and can explain about blood circulation and lung function. The context was an undergraduate introduction to biology course taught by two professors across three semesters at a state university. Independent reviewers identified five categories of erroneous ideas about blood circulation. Many categories still presented problems to students at the end of the course: 70% of prospective elementary teachers did not understand the dual blood circulation pathway, 33% were confused about blood vessels, 55% had wrong ideas about gas exchange, 19% had trouble with gas transport and utilization, and 20% did not understand lung function. Results show that an interview about a drawing as a final exam was significantly better at revealing different errors and a higher frequency of erroneous ideas compared with an essay exam. There is an urgent need for instructional tools to help undergraduate students realize the discrepancies between their own ideas about blood circulation and those of the scientific community.
Glucosamine inhibits angiotensin II-induced cytoplasmic Ca2+ elevation in neonatal cardiomyocytes via protein-associated O-linked N-acetylglucosamine
Authors: Nagy Tamas , Champattanachai Voraratt , Marchase Richard B. , Chatham John C.
Published: August 2005

We previously reported that glucosamine and hyperglycemia attenuate the response of cardiomyocytes to inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate-generating agonists such as ANG II. This appears to be related to an increase in flux through the hexosamine biosynthesis pathway (HBP) and decreased Ca2+ entry into the cells; however, a direct link between HBP and intracellular Ca2+ homeostasis has not been established. Therefore, using neonatal rat ventricular myocytes, we investigated the relationship between glucosamine treatment; the concentration of UDP- N-acetylglucosamine (UDP-GlcNAc), an end product of the HBP; and the level of protein O-linked N-acetylglucosamine ( O-GlcNAc) on ANG II-mediated changes in intracellular free Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i). We found that glucosamine blocked ANG II-induced [Ca2+]i increase and that this phenomenon was associated with a significant increase in UDP-GlcNAc and O-GlcNAc levels. O-(2-acetamido-2-deoxy-d-glucopyranosylidene)-amino- N-phenylcarbamate, an inhibitor of O-GlcNAcase that increased O-GlcNAc levels without changing UDP-GlcNAc concentrations, mimicked the effect of glucosamine on the ANG II-induced increase in [Ca2+]i. An inhibitor of O-GlcNAc-transferase, alloxan, prevented the glucosamine-induced increase in O-GlcNAc but not the increase in UDP-GlcNAc; however, alloxan abrogated the inhibition of the ANG II-induced increase in [Ca2+]i. These data support the notion that changes in O-GlcNAc levels mediated via increased HBP flux may be involved in the regulation of [Ca2+]i homeostasis in the heart.
Activation of large-conductance, Ca2+-activated K+ channels by cannabinoids
Authors: Sade Hiroko , Muraki Katsuhiko , Ohya Susumu , Hatano Noriyuki , Imaizumi Yuji
Published: August 2005

We have examined the effects of the cannabinoid anandamide (AEA) and its stable analog, methanandamide (methAEA), on large-conductance, Ca2+-activated K+ (BK) channels using human embryonic kidney (HEK)-293 cells, in which the α-subunit of the BK channel (BK-α), both α- and β1-subunits (BK-αβ1), or both α- and β4-subunits (BK-αβ4) were heterologously expressed. In a whole cell voltage-clamp configuration, each cannabinoid activated BK-αβ1 within a similar concentration range. Because methAEA could potentiate BK-α, BK-αβ1, and BK-αβ4 with similar efficacy, the β-subunits may not be involved at the site of action for cannabinoids. Under cell-attached patch-clamp conditions, application of methAEA to the bathing solution increased BK channel activity; however, methAEA did not alter channel activity in the excised inside-out patch mode even when ATP was present on the cytoplasmic side of the membrane. Application of methAEA to HEK-BK-α and HEK-BK-αβ1 did not change intracellular Ca2+ concentration. Moreover, methAEA-induced potentiation of BK channel currents was not affected by pretreatment with a CB1 antagonist (AM251), modulators of G proteins (cholera and pertussis toxins) or by application of a selective CB2 agonist (JWH133). Inhibitors of CaM, PKG, and MAPKs (W7, KT5823, and PD-98059) did not affect the potentiation. Application of methAEA to mouse aortic myocytes significantly increased BK channel currents. This study provides the first direct evidence that unknown factors in the cytoplasm mediate the ability of endogenous cannabinoids to activate BK channel currents. Cannabinoids may be hyperpolarizing factors in cells, such as arterial myocytes, in which BK channels are highly expressed.
Cytosolic COOH terminus of the peptide transporter PEPT2 is involved in apical membrane localization of the protein
Authors: Klapper Maja , Daniel Hannelore , Döring Frank
Published: August 2005

The peptide transporter PEPT2 is a polytopic transmembrane protein that mediates the cellular uptake of di- and tripeptides and a variety of peptidomimetics. It is widely expressed in mammalian tissues, including kidney, lung, mammary gland, choroid plexus, and glia cells. In renal tubular cells, PEPT2 is exclusively found at the apical membrane. The molecular mechanisms underlying this polarized expression and targeting to the brush-border membrane are not known. We have explored the role of the 36 COOH-terminal amino acid residues in PEPT2 trafficking and apical expression. EGFP-tagged PEPT2 wild-type transporter and various truncated and mutant proteins were expressed in the polarized proximal tubule cell lines SKPT and OK, and the cellular distribution of the fusion proteins was assessed using confocal microscopy. Whereas deletion of the last seven amino acids (delC7) did not alter PEPT2 surface expression, deletion of the next residue (delC8) or up to 30 terminal amino acids resulted in impaired apical expression and distinct accumulation of mutant proteins in endosomal and lysosomal vesicles. Truncation of more amino acids (delC36) containing tyrosine-based motifs led to a rather diffuse intracellular distribution pattern. Mutations introduced at isoleucine-720 (I720A) and leucine-722 (I722A) also caused an impaired surface appearance. Internalization assays revealed a higher endocytotic rate of the PEPT2 mutants I720A, L722A, and delC36. Our data suggest that a three-amino acid stretch (INL) and tyrosine-based motifs within the COOH tail of PEPT2 are involved in PEPT2's apical membrane localization and membrane steady-state level.
Augmented extracellular ATP signaling in bladder urothelial cells from patients with interstitial cystitis
Authors: Sun Yan , Chai Toby C.
Published: August 2005

Interstitial cystitis (IC) is an idiopathic hypersensory condition of the bladder associated with increased urinary ATP and increased stretch-activated ATP release by bladder urothelial cells (BUCs), suggesting augmented purinergic signaling in the bladder. To test this theory further, monolayers of cultured BUCs derived from bladder biopsies obtained from patients with IC and control patients were stimulated with 10–30 μM ATP with subsequent measurement of extracellular ATP levels using the luciferin-luciferase assay. Stimulation with 30 μM ATP resulted in IC supernatant containing several-fold more ATP than control BUCs initially, followed by a slower decrease in ATP levels. This difference in ATP levels was not completely due to activity of cellular ecto-ATPase, because blockade with ARL67156 did not normalize the difference. Exposure to hypotonic solutions resulted in similar extracellular ATP concentrations in IC and control BUCs, but there was a slower decrease in ATP levels in IC supernatants. Treatment of IC BUCs with 10–40 μM suramin, a nonspecific P2 receptor antagonist, significantly attenuated the IC BUC response to extracellular ATP, restoring IC BUCs to a control phenotype. Pretreatment of IC BUCs with 20 ng/ml of heparin-binding EGF-like growth factor (HB-EGF), which previously has been shown to be decreased in IC urine specimens, also restored IC BUCs to a control phenotype with respect to response to ATP stimulation. In conclusion, IC BUCs have augmented extracellular ATP signaling that could be blocked by suramin and HB-EGF. These findings suggest the possible development of future novel therapeutic techniques.
Activating E2Fs mediate transcriptional regulation of human E2F6 repressor
Authors: Lyons Tarrah E. , Salih Maysoon , Tuana Balwant S.
Published: August 2005

E2F6 is believed to repress E2F-responsive genes and therefore serve a role in cell cycle regulation. Analysis of the human E2F6 promoter region revealed the presence of two putative E2F binding sites, both of which were found to be functionally critical because deletion or mutations of these sites abolished promoter activity. Ectopic expression of E2F1 protein was found to increase E2F6 mRNA levels and significantly upregulate E2F6 promoter activity. Deletion or mutation of the putative E2F binding sites nullified the effects of E2F1 on the E2F6 promoter activity. Studies on the temporal induction of E2F family members demonstrated that the activating E2Fs, and most notably E2F1, were upregulated before E2F6 during cell cycle progression at the G1/S phase, and this coincided with the time course of induction experienced by the E2F6 promoter during the course of the cell cycle. EMSAs indicated the specific binding of nuclear complexes to the E2F6 promoter that contained E2F1-related species whose binding was specifically competed by the consensus E2F binding site. Chromatin immunoprecipitation assays with anti-E2Fs demonstrated the association of E2F family members with the E2F6 promoter in vivo. These data indicate that the expression of the E2F6 repressor is influenced at the transcriptional level by E2F family members and suggest that interplay among these transcriptional regulators, especially E2F1, may be critical for cell cycle regulation.
Differential regulation of transient receptor potential melastatin 6 and 7 cation channels by ANG II in vascular smooth muscle cells from spontaneously hypertensive rats
Authors: Touyz Rhian M. , He Ying , Montezano Augusto C. I. , Yao Guoying , Chubanov Vladimir , Gudermann Thomas , Callera Glaucia E.
Published: August 2005

Intracellular Mg2+ depletion has been implicated in vascular dysfunction in hypertension. We demonstrated that transient receptor potential melastatin 7 (TRPM7) cation channels mediate Mg2+ influx in VSMCs. Whether this plays a role in [Mg2+]i deficiency in hypertension is unclear. Here, we tested the hypothesis that downregulation of TRPM7 and its homologue TRPM6 is associated with reduced [Mg2+]i and that ANG II negatively regulates TRPM6/7 in vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) from spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR). Cultured VSMCs from Wistar Kyoto (WKY) and SHR were studied. mRNA and protein expression of TRPM6 and TRPM7 were assessed by RT-PCR and immunoblotting, respectively. Translocation of annexin-1, specific TRPM7 substrate, was measured as an index of TRPM7 activation. [Mg2+]i was determined using mag fura-2. VSMCs from WKY and SHR express TRPM6 and TRPM7. Basal TRPM6 expression was similar in WKY and SHR, but basal TRPM7 content was lower in VSMCs from SHR vs. WKY. This was associated with significantly reduced [Mg2+]i in SHR cells ( P < 0.01). ANG II time-dependently increased TRPM6 expression, with similar responses in WKY and SHR. ANG II significantly increased TRPM7 expression in WKY ( P < 0.05), but not in SHR. Annexin-1 translocation was reduced 1.5–2-fold in SHR vs. WKY. Our findings demonstrate that TRPM6 and TRPM7 are differentially regulated in VSMCs from SHR and WKY. Whereas TRPM6 is unaltered in SHR, expression of TRPM7 is blunted. This was associated with attenuated annexin-1 translocation and decreased VSMC [Mg2+]i in SHR. Downregulation of TRPM7, but not TRPM6, may play a role in altered Mg2+ homeostasis in VSMCs from SHR.
Implied Motion From Form in the Human Visual Cortex
Authors: Krekelberg Bart , Vatakis Argiro , Kourtzi Zoe
Published: August 2005

When cartoonists use speed lines—also called motion streaks—to suggest the speed of a stationary object, they use form to imply motion. The goal of this study was to investigate the mechanisms that mediate the percept of implied motion in the human visual cortex. In an adaptation functional imaging paradigm we presented Glass patterns that, just like speed lines, imply motion but do not on average contain coherent motion energy. We found selective adaptation to these patterns in the human motion complex, the lateral occipital complex (LOC), and earlier visual areas. Glass patterns contain both local orientation features and global structure. To disentangle these aspects we performed a control experiment using Glass patterns with minimal local orientation differences but large global structure differences. This experiment showed that selectivity for Glass patterns arises in part in areas beyond V1 and V2. Interestingly, the selective adaptation transferred from implied motion stimuli to similar real motion patterns in dorsal but not ventral areas. This suggests that the same subpopulations of cells in dorsal areas that are selective for implied motion are also selective for real motion. In other words, these cells are invariant with respect to the cue (implied or real) that generates the motion. We conclude that the human motion complex responds to Glass patterns as if they contain coherent motion. This, presumably, is the reason why these patterns appear to move coherently. The LOC, however, has different cells that respond to the structure of real motion patterns versus implied motion patterns. Such a differential response may allow ventral areas to further analyze the structure of global patterns.
Background Changes Delay Information Represented in Macaque V1 Neurons
Authors: Huang Xin , Paradiso Michael A.
Published: August 2005

In natural behavioral situations, saccadic eye movements not only introduce new stimuli into V1 receptive fields, they also cause changes in the background. We recorded in awake macaque V1 using a fixation paradigm and compared evoked activity to small stimuli when the background was either static or changing as with a saccade. When a stimulus was shown on a static background, as in most previous experiments, the initial response was orientation selective and contrast was inversely correlated with response latency. When a stimulus was introduced with a background change, V1 neurons showed a qualitatively different temporal response pattern in which information about stimulus orientation and contrast was delayed. The delay in the representation of visual information was found with three different types of background change—luminance increment, luminance decrement, and a pattern change with fixed mean luminance. We also found that with a background change, V1 off responses were suppressed and had a shorter time course compared with the static-background situation. Our results suggest that the distribution of temporal changes across the visual field plays a fundamental role in determining V1 responses. In the static-background condition, temporal change in the visual input occurs only in a small portion of the visual field. In the changing-background condition, and presumably in natural vision, temporal changes are widely distributed. Thus a delayed representation of visual information may be more representative of natural visual situations.
On the basis number of the composition of different ladders with some graphs
Authors: Alzoubi Maref Y. , Jaradat M. M. M.
Published: August 2005

The basis number b(G) of a graph G is defined to be the least
integer k such that G has a k‐fold basis for its cycle
space. In this paper, we investigate the basis number of the
composition of paths and cycles with ladders, circular
ladders, and Möbius ladders.
On functions with the Cauchy difference bounded by a functional. Part II
Authors: Fechner Włodzimierz
Published: August 2005

We are going to consider the functional inequality f(x + y) − f(x) − f(y) ≥ ϕ(x, y), x, y ∈ X, where (X, +) is an abelian
group, and ϕ : X × X  → ℝ and f : X → ℝ are unknown mappings. In particular, we will give conditions
which force biadditivity and symmetry of ϕ and the
representation f(x) = (1/2)ϕ(x, x) + a(x) for x ∈ X, where
a is an additive function. In the present paper, we continue and
develop our earlier studies published by the
author (2004).
T‐fuzzy ideals in BCI‐algebras
Authors: Akram M. , Dar K. H.
Published: August 2005

Using a t‐norm T, we introduce the notions of T‐fuzzy
subalgebras and T‐fuzzy H‐ideals in BCI‐algebras and
investigate some of their properties.
Extensions of Bailey′s transform and applications
Authors: Joshi C. M. , Vyas Yashoverdhan
Published: August 2005

The well‐known Bailey′s transform is extended. Using the extended
transform, we derive hitherto undiscovered ordinary and
q‐hypergeometric identities and discuss their particular cases
of importance, namely, two new q‐sums for Saalschützian
 4Φ3, new double series Rogers‐Ramanujan‐type identities
of modulo 81, discrete extension of the q‐analogs of two
quadratic transformations of  2F1, and two new
quadratic‐cubic transformations of  3F2.
Uniqueness of nonlinear differential polynomials sharing simpleand double 1‐points
Authors: Lahiri Indrajit , Mandal Nintu
Published: August 2005

We prove two theorems on the uniqueness of nonlinear differential
polynomials, one of which improves a result of Fang and Hong.
On convergent sequences and fixed point theorems in D‐metric spaces
Authors: Naidu S. V. R. , Rao K. P. R. , Rao N. Srinivasa
Published: August 2005

Examples of complete D‐metric spaces are given in which every convergent
sequence has at most two limits and in which there are convergent
sequences with exactly two limits. Also an example of a complete
D‐metric space having a convergent sequence with infinitely many
limits is given and, using the example, several fixed point
theorems in D‐metric spaces are shown to be false. Modifications
of some of these theorems and their generalizations are obtained
either by imposing restrictions on the number of limits of certain
convergent sequences in the space or by assuming the sequential
continuity of the D‐metric in any two variables and the theorems
so obtained are illustrated by means of examples.
Effects of Die Shapes and Additives on the Physical and Mechanical Properties, and Cellular Structure of Biodegradable Cushioning Extruded Foams
Authors: Lui Wai-Bun , Peng Jinchyau
Published: August 2005

Efforts are focused on the effects of operating parameters, i.e., die shapes (DS), PVA ratio (PR), and additives (AT), on the physical and mechanical properties of corn-PVA extrudates in this study. The cellular structure of biodegradable extruded foams are studied and the extrudates are evaluated as cushioning materials. The process variables are the operating conditions, DS (O, ∞, Δ, and 0), PR (40, 50, 60%), and AT (8%) (sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO3), calcium carbonate (CaCO3), calcium hydroxide (Ca(OH)2)). The experimental setup is a 4 × 3 × 3 factorial design. Samples of each treatment are collected and the physical and mechanical properties are measured and analyzed using the PROC ANOVA and PROC CORR of the SAS 6.0 software package. Moreover, the cellular structures of the extrudates are observed by using a scanning electron microscope. The experimental results indicate that: (a) the change of DS has a significant effect on the longitudinal expansion, bulk density, and compressibility of the extrudates; (b) the change of PR has a significant effect on the longitudinal expansion, bulk density, and compressibility of the extrudates; (c) the change of AT has a significant effect on the longitudinal expansion, bulk density, and compressibility of the extrudates; (d) the most uniform cell is obtained with the O-shaped die, as compared with other die shapes. A moderate cell wall is obtained with the O-shaped die. The largest cell sizes are found in PVA 60% with CaCO3. However, the smallest cell sizes are found in PVA 60% with NaHCO3. Changing the types of additives from NaHCO3 to CaCO3, and CaCO3 to Ca(OH)2 increases the cell size and cell wall thickness.
Element-Failure: An Alternative to Material Property Degradation Method for Progressive Damage in Composite Structures
Authors: Tay T. E. , Tan V. B. C. , Tan S. H. N.
Published: August 2005

In order to develop more rational design and damage tolerance approaches, there is a need for more accurate, realistic, and practical modeling of damage progression in composite structures at the component level, and not just at the laboratory specimen level. This presents a considerable challenge because experimental and analytical results at the specimen level do not always translate to observations of damage at the component or structural levels. In this article, a simple but novel finite element-based method for modeling progressive damage in fiber-reinforced composites is proposed. The element-failure method (EFM) is based on the idea that the nodal forces of an element of a damaged composite material can be modified to reflect the general state of damage and loading. The EFM, when employed with suitable micromechanics-based failure criteria, may be a practical method for mapping damage initiation and propagation in composite structures. This concept is especially useful because the nature of damage in composite laminates is in general complex and diffused, characterized by multiple matrix cracks, fiber pullout, fiber breakage, and delaminations. It is therefore not practical or even possible to identify and model the multitude of cracks in the fashion of traditional fracture mechanics. Currently, progressive damage in composites is most commonly modeled using material property degradation methods (MPDM). Unfortunately, MPDM often employs rather arbitrary and restrictive degradation schemes that, in some cases may result in computational problems. In contrast, computational convergence and stability is always assured in EFM because the stiffness matrix is never altered. Furthermore, no contact algorithm to prevent nonphysical solutions involving interpenetration of delamination and crack surfaces is necessary, because the failed elements are not removed from the model. It is shown in this article that the EFM is a more general method than the MPDM. A comparison study of damage progression and delamination in a composite laminate subjected to three-point bend using a recently proposed failure criterion called the strain invariant failure theory (SIFT) is presented. The results show that the EFM is able to predict the damage pattern more accurately than the MPDM.
The Classical Liberals Were Half Right (or Half Wrong): New Tests of the ‘Liberal Peace’, 1960-88
Authors: Kim Hyung Min , Rousseau David L.
Published: August 2005

Classical liberals such as Kant argued that expanding political participation and increasing economic interdependence would promote peace among states. Recent empirical support for both propositions has led to a growing consensus on the power of the ‘liberal peace’. This article challenges one pillar of the liberal peace. Using a dataset of international disputes from 1960 to 1988, the authors find that there is no statistical evidence of the pacifying effect of economic interdependence. Findings in the existing literature appear to be due to the improper use of the classic logit (or probit) method despite the existence of the ‘simultaneity problem’ between the use of force and interdependence (i.e. reciprocal causation). In this study, the authors employ a two-stage probit least squares method to control this problem. Although Kant’s prediction with respect to regime type is supported by the analysis, the claim that economic interdependence will decrease conflict is not. The two-stage results reveal that international conflict reduces economic interdependence (rather than interdependence reducing conflict). The findings are robust using five alternative operationalizations of the economic interdependence variable. Finally, a re-analysis of the Russett & Oneal dataset using a two-stage probit model also indicates that the impact of economic interdependence evaporates after correcting for the simultaneity problem.
Determinants of Multilateralism in US Use of Force: State of Economy, Election Cycle, and Divided Government
Authors: Tago Atsushi
Published: August 2005

US presidents used military force 212 times from 1948 to 1998. In 45 of these cases, the force was embedded in a multilateral context. The article distinguishes between procedural multilateralism, where US military operations are endorsed by an international organization, and operational multilateralism, where military actions are coordinated with the armed forces of other countries. In some cases, such as the Korean War and the first Gulf War, the United States obtained UN authorization and created a multinational force. However, there are also partially multilateral cases, in which either political endorsement or execution of the use of force is made by a multilateral approach while the other is subject to unilateralism. This article focuses on the varieties of multilateralism and homes in on exploring why such varieties of multilateralism exist. An original dataset for studying multilateral-unilateral choice in US use of force is analyzed using a multinomial logit model and a bivariate probit model. The analyses suggest that three domestic conditions - recession, election cycle, and divided government - can cause partial multilateralism, since they create different incentives for the president to seek burden-sharing with allies or seek collective legitimacy in international organizations.
Armed Conflict and Its International Dimensions, 1946-2004
Authors: Harbom Lotta , Wallensteen Peter
Published: August 2005

In 2004, there were 30 active armed conflicts, up by one from 2003. Despite this slight increase, the number of armed conflicts remains lower than at any time since the early 1970s. While seven of the conflicts from 2003 were no longer active, one entirely new conflict broke out and seven conflicts restarted, three with action taken by new rebel groups and four by previously recorded actors. A total of 228 armed conflicts have been recorded after World War II and 118 after the end of the Cold War. The vast majority of them have been fought within states. However, a little over one-fifth of the internal conflicts are internationalized in the sense that outside states contribute troops to the conflict. Less overt support, involving, for example, financial and logistic assistance, is found much more frequently. This type of support was present in nearly three-quarters of the armed conflicts after the end of the Cold War. Both governments and rebels receive support from outside states, usually neighboring states. Outside support for governments fighting rebel movements is almost always provided by other governments, not by other rebel movements.
Recasting the Home-Work Relationship: A Case of Mutual Adjustment?
Authors: Tietze Susanne , Musson Gill
Published: August 2005

Advances in communication and information technologies, changing managerial strategies and changing cultural expectations about the location of (paid) work, have meant that paid work is increasingly conducted from home. Home then becomes the place where the discourse of industrial production meets with the discourse of household production. We analyse the relationship between these two traditionally separate discourses, which, through the disintegration of the time/space compression, increasingly come to bear on each other. We report on the experiences of home-workers and their families coping with the co-presence of the sometimes conflicting and sometimes competing demands and values embedded in such discourses. In doing so, we contribute to current understandings of the complexities inherent in emergent forms of organization, as the relationship between work and home is recast. Theoretically and methodologically, this empirical study is located within a discursive framework, and we emphasize the usefulness of such approaches to studying organizational realities.
From Thought to Theory to School: The Role of Contextual Factors in the Evolution of Schools of Management Thought
Authors: Ofori-Dankwa Joseph , Julian Scott D.
Published: August 2005

The process by which theories form into schools of thought has been the focus of much scholarly attention, but the current model of McKinley et al. (1999) focuses primarily on theory content attributes. In this paper, we introduce theory context attributes that also influence the school formation process. Specifically, we suggest that factors such as the quality of the publication outlet, the reputation of the theory originator and the reputation of the theory originator’s university will all influence the likelihood of a theory being detected and assimilated and, consequently, evolving into a school of thought. We further highlight the effects of different combinations of theory and context attributes on the probability of a theory developing into a theory school. We suggest that theories with high content and high context attributes are more likely to evolve into a school of thought than theories with low content or low context attributes. Finally, we discuss future research implications.
The Story of Work: A Narrative Analysis of Workplace Emotion
Authors: Boudens Connie J.
Published: August 2005

This paper argues that work-related emotion is best accessed using indirect means, including figures of speech and narrative. An analysis of 452 narratives drawn from previously published works is presented to the end of addressing two research questions: Where is the emotion in work? and What is the emotion in work? In response to the first question, a series of prototypical work situations are isolated, all of which are heavily charged with emotion. In response to the second question, clusters of emotion associated with each prototypical situation are identified. An image of the vital dynamics of organizational life is presented based on these results, and it is argued that narrative analysis is a useful and accessible means of examining the experience of emotion in organizations.
The Othello Conundrum: The Inner Contagion of Leadership
Authors: Stein Mark
Published: August 2005

The purpose of this paper is to contribute to the literature on leadership, emotions and organizations by examining Shakespeare’s Othello. While much of the existing literature focuses exclusively on the external dimensions of leadership, this paper adds a new dimension by focusing as well on the internal workings of the mind of the leader, here that of Othello. This focus is made possible by postulating that the subordinate Iago — whose relationship to Othello is central to the plot — represents an inner character within Othello’s mind, as well as an external character. As an inner character, Iago fills Othello’s mind with powerful feelings of jealousy and envy, especially about an alleged relationship between Othello’s wife and his lieutenant, Cassio. Othello’s conundrum thus concerns whether he should tolerate these feelings and live with his uncertainty about his wife’s purported infidelity, or, alternatively, try to rid himself of these feelings by killing her and Cassio. Concepts from psychoanalysis and a variety of other traditions are drawn on. Following this, there is an exploration of a contemporary reference, that of the demise of the Gucci family dynasty. The paper ends with an examination of the implications and a conclusion.
Alternative Approaches for Studying Organizational Change
Authors: Van de Ven Andrew H. , Poole Marshall Scott
Published: August 2005

Scholars hold different views about whether organizations consist of things or processes and about variance or process methods for conducting research. By combining these two dimensions, we develop a typology of four approaches for studying organizational change. Although the four approaches may be viewed as opposing or competing views, we see them as being complementary. Each approach focuses on different questions and provides a different — but partial — understanding of organizational change. We argue that coordinating the pluralistic insights from the four approaches provides a richer understanding of organization change than any one approach provides by itself.
Hysteretic Behavior of a Belt Tensioner: Modeling and Experimental Investigation
Authors: Michon G. , Manin L. , Dufour R.
Published: August 2005

In this paper we describe the modeling of the hysteretic behavior of belt tensioners. An initial experimental device is composed only of the tensioner by using forcing frequencies, preloads and deflection amplitudes. It permits the identification of the parameters of the restoring force model used. Comparison of the measured and predicted force-deflection loops of the tensioner subjected to large deflections permits preliminary validation of the model. The second experimental device consists of a belt-tensioner system. Its non-linear modeling includes the above hysteretic model and the belt’s longitudinal characteristics. Validation of the belt-tensioner model is completed by comparing the measured and predicted belt tension. Finally, it is shown by using a parametric investigation and phase-plane portrait that the response of the belt-tensioner system increases with the frequency and the amplitude of the excitation.
Internal Resonance Phenomena of an Asymmetrical Rotating Shaft
Authors: Ishida Yukio , Inoue Tsuyoshi
Published: August 2005

In general, asymmetrical shaft-disk systems have been investigated where unstable vibrations may occur. Most studies have treated a single resonance case for the linear system, and we have previously treated a single resonance case for the nonlinear system. However, when natural frequencies have a simple integer ratio relation in a nonlinear asymmetrical shaft-disk system, an internal resonance may occur and the vibration phenomena change remarkably compared to the characteristics of a single resonance case (the case without internal resonance). In this study, the internal resonance phenomena of an asymmetrical shaft are investigated theoretically and experimentally in the vicinities of the major critical speed, and twice and three times the major critical speed. We clarify that the shape of the resonance curves changes, almost periodic motions occur, and, especially, the occurrence of unstable vibration at the rotational speed of twice the major critical speed is extremely affected by the internal resonance. Further, we show the change of nonlinear phenomena between the systems with and without internal resonance.
Applying a Psychoeducational Perspective to ADHD
Authors: Penny Ann Marie , Waschbusch Daniel A. , Carrey Norm , Drabman Ronald S.
Published: August 2005

This article examines whether various cognitive abilities are associated with symptoms of ADHD. Cognitive ability is conceptualized using Cattell-Horn-Carroll (CHC) theory as measured using theWoodcock-Johnson Tests of Cognitive Ability (3rd ed.). This article also examines whether test session behavior mediates the association between cognitive ability and ADHD. Participants are children ages 6 to 12 with ( n= 33) and without ( n= 19) ADHD. Results show that inattentive symptoms of ADHD are significantly related to the CHC ability of processing speed above and beyond the effect of test session behavior. Symptoms of ADHD (both inattention and hyperactivity/impulsivity) are also significantly associated with visual spatial processing, but this is completely mediated by test session behavior. It is concluded that inattentive symptoms of ADHD are associated with slower processing speed and that this relationship is not explained by test session behavior.
Inhibition, ADHD, and Computer Games: The Inhibitory Performance of Children with ADHD on Computerized Tasks and Games
Authors: Shaw Rebecca , Grayson Andy , Lewis Vicky
Published: August 2005

Contrary to empirical reports of inhibitory dysfunction in ADHD, parental reports suggest that when playing computer games, the inhibitory abilities of children with ADHD are unimpaired. This small-scale preliminary investigation into this phenomenon looks at inhibition of an ongoing response and activity exhibited by children with ADHD between 6 and 14 years old on two commercially available games, on the Conners's Continuous Performance Test II (CPT II), and on a more game-like version of the same task that incorporates characteristics commonly found in commercially available computer games. The performance of participants with ADHD on commercially available games is equivalent to that of typically developing participants and is significantly better on the more game-like version of the CPT II.
Children with ADHD and Depression: A Multisource, Multimethod Assessment of Clinical, Social, and Academic Functioning
Authors: Blackman Gabrielle L. , Ostrander Rick , Herman Keith C.
Published: August 2005

Although ADHD and depression are common comorbidities in youth, few studies have examined this particular clinical presentation. To address method bias limitations of previous research, this study uses multiple informants to compare the academic, social, and clinical functioning of children with ADHD, children with ADHD and depression, and children without ADHD, all derived from a large community sample. High levels of comorbid depression are found in children with ADHD. Children withADHDand depression are more depressed and anxious than their non-depressed ADHDcounterparts but do not have more extreme levels of ADHD or aggression. The association between depression and ADHD does not appear to be epiphenomenal, that is, related to a shared association with anxiety or externalizing symptoms. Finally, children with ADHD and depression display more impairment in social and academic functioning compared to controls. Although social impairment is greater in children with ADHD and depression than in children with only ADHD, conduct problems are not.
Self-Report of ADHD Symptoms in College Students and Repetition Effects
Authors: Marczinski Cecile A.
Published: August 2005

The research in this article focuses on the relation between self-report of attention deficit disorder (ADD) symptoms and performance on a two-alternative forced-choice task that measures repetition effects. The ADD/Hyperactive Adolescent Self-Report Scale–Short Form is administered to college students after they completed the repetition effects task. Performance to familiar and novel stimuli can be measured using this paradigm. The results indicate that participants in the good and poor attention groups do not differ in their responses to repeated stimuli. However, participants who self-report poor attention are faster to respond to novel stimuli compared with participants who self-report good attention. This brief questionnaire appears to capture individual differences in attention and may be useful in attention research.
Accuracy of Self-Evaluation in Adults with ADHD
Authors: Knouse Laura E. , Bagwell Catherine L. , Barkley Russell A. , Murphy Kevin R.
Published: August 2005

Research on children with ADHD indicates an association with inaccuracy of self-appraisal. This study examines the accuracy of self-evaluations in clinic-referred adults diagnosed with ADHD. Self-assessments and performance measures of driving in naturalistic settings and on a virtual-reality driving simulator are used to assess accuracy of self-evaluations. The group diagnosed with ADHD ( n= 44) has a higher rate of collisions, speeding tickets, and total driving citations in their driving history; report less use of safe driving behaviors in naturalistic settings; and use fewer safe driving behaviors in the simulator than the community comparison group ( n= 44). Despite poorer performance, adults with ADHD provide similar driving self-assessments, thereby overestimating in naturalistic settings to a greater degree than the comparison group. These findings extend research in children with ADHD to an adult sample in an important domain of functioning and may relate to findings of executive deficits associated with ADHD.
Communication clarity in strategic management data sources
Authors: Reeves Terrie C. , Ford Eric W. , Duncan W. Jack , Ginter Peter M.
Published: August 2005

Researchers often use organizational documents as source material without considering that measurements of organizational attributes might vary according to the document type used. We examine the communication clarity, described by sensitivity and specificity, of three document types used to score organizational strategy variables. We hypothesize that each type will have greater sensitivity or greater specificity, depending upon document objectives and rhetorical devices. Using a partial least squares analysis method, all except one hypothesis were supported: communication clarity does vary by document type. Shortcomings of each document type are discussed and possible ways for strategy researchers to overcome those shortcomings are suggested.
Influences of relative rewards of top managers on firm performance
Authors: Wright Peter , Kroll Mark , Lado Augustine , Elenkov Detelin
Published: August 2005

In this work the impacts of top managers’ relative rewards on firm performance are examined. What is suggested and empirically found is that greater disparities in interrank values of salary streams may lower the performance of more focused firms (such as single-product firms or related diversifiers). It is also suggested and found that higher gaps in interrank values of salary streams may boost the performance of less focused firms (unrelated diversifiers). In contrast, it is proposed and found that expanded differentials in interrank values of stock options may improve performance, regardless of the strategic profile of the enterprise. Moreover, it is contended and found that intrarank disparities in salary streams or options may adversely influence the performance of the more focused as well as the less focused firms.
Neurocognitive Consequences of Risk-Adapted Therapy for Childhood Medulloblastoma
Authors: Mulhern Raymond K. , Palmer Shawna L. , Merchant Thomas E. , Wallace Dana , Kocak Mehmet , Brouwers Pim , Krull Kevin , Chintagumpala Murali , Stargatt Robyn , Ashley David M. , Tyc Vida L. , Kun Larry , Boyett James , Gajjar Amar
Published: August 2005

Purpose

This prospective, longitudinal study examined the effects of risk-adapted craniospinal irradiation (CSI) dose and the interactions of dose with age and time from diagnosis on intelligence quotient (IQ) and academic achievement (reading, spelling, and math) among patients treated for medulloblastoma (MB).

Patients and Methods

Patients received serial neurocognitive testing spanning from 0 to 6.03 years after diagnosis (median, 3.14 years). The multi-institutional study included 111 patients, who were 3 to 20 years of age at diagnosis (median age, 7.4 years), treated for MB with risk-adapted CSI followed by four cycles of high-dose chemotherapy (cyclophosphamide, cisplatin, and vincristine) with stem-cell support. High-risk patients (HR; n = 37) received CSI to 36 to 39.6 Gy and conformal boost treatment of the primary site to 55.8 to 59.4 Gy. Average-risk patients (AR; n = 74) received CSI to 23.4 Gy and conformal boost treatment of the posterior fossa to 36.0 Gy and primary site to 55.8 Gy.

Results

Multivariate modeling revealed statistically significant declines in mean IQ (−1.59 points/yr; P = .006), reading (−2.95 points/yr; P < .0001), spelling (−2.94 points/yr; P < .0001), and math (−1.87 points/yr; P = .003) scores for the entire group. The effects of risk-adapted radiation therapy on IQ, reading, and spelling were moderated by age, with the greatest rates of decline observed for the HR patients who were younger (< 7 years old) at diagnosis.

Conclusion

Young age at diagnosis was the most prominent risk factor for neurocognitive deficits among survivors of MB despite reductions in CSI dosing and efforts to limit the boost volume. Younger patients exhibited substantial problems with the development of reading skills.