bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reinstating Pierre Bourdieu's contribution to cultural economy theorizing
Authors: Hinde Sarah , Dixon Jane
Published: November 2007

Systematic `cultural economy' analysis is a recent development in a long history of sociological thought about the relationship between economy and culture. Two recent benchmark texts demonstrate various innovative ways of doing cultural economy. However, we believe these books betray ambiguity about the historical roots of cultural economy theory, and overlook the multiple disciplinary perspectives that engage with these ideas. Surprisingly, Pierre Bourdieu is rarely acknowledged as an important progenitor of cultural economy theory, despite the fact his large and influential body of work was primarily concerned with the interpenetration of cultural and economic power, processes and practices. An application of Bourdieu's ideas — in particular fields, habitus and capital — enriches cultural economy perspectives in three areas: the distinctive yet interdependent nature of cultural and economic spheres of action; attending to the role of power, class and economic relations in shaping culture; and understanding the daily lives of socially situated individuals.
Access to information and support for health: some potential issues and solutions for an ageing population
Authors: Capel Sue , Childs Sue , Banwell Linda , Heaford Susan
Published: November 2007

Computer illiteracy is diminishing as a new generation of retirees become the younger old and display more up-to-date knowledge and skills. However, there are questions about whether this group will be able to continue to update their skills as they get older, and whether it is appropriate to develop technology solutions specifically for this age group or to concentrate on accessible designs for the whole population. We propose that older people may be empowered through involvement in the design and provision of accessible information and technology solutions and through training opportunities in information seeking skills. Access, involvement and training need to be provided in everyday locations, and training needs to be closely related to people's physical, cognitive and information needs and those of the particular communities where they live. These issues are explored using evidence from a number of research projects conducted by the authors.
Interventions for information systems introduction in the NHS
Authors: Maguire Stuart , Ojiako Udechukwu
Published: November 2007

This article provides a historical review of five long-term interventions which were undertaken within the NHS. The objective of the exercise was to examine how information systems (IS) were introduced into operational environments. The length of the interventions ranged from 9 months to almost 3 years. The five sites were all at different stages of system development and the research was carried out using a combination of participant observation and action research. The research question asks, `How can organizations think about and hence go about their information provision in such a way that successful IS are introduced?'
Policy and research: Lessons from the Clackmannanshire Synthetic Phonics Initiative
Authors: Ellis Sue
Published: November 2007

This article explores why policy makers in England and Scotland responded so differently to the Clackmannanshire study on synthetic phonics. It suggests that a deeper understanding of the national and local policy contexts can explain Scotland's response. Analysis of the wider context of the Clackmannanshire initiative supports Moss and Huxford's (2007) argument that literacy problems cannot be couched within a single paradigm's field of reference, and that policy makers need to consider evidence from different paradigms if they are to make robust decisions.
A pleasurable path to literacy: Can Steiner contribute to the literacy debate?
Authors: Burnett John
Published: November 2007

Although the recent publication of the Rose Report appears to draw a line in the sand that privileges synthetic phonics over other methods in the UK, history indicates a pendulum swing of preference between whole-word and phonics since the advent of mass education. Suggesting that the current `victory' for exponents of synthetic phonics is merely a temporary cessation of hostilities in long-standing `Reading Wars', this article introduces the idea that Steiner Waldorf teaching has, for generations, offered an approach to literacy that has consistently encompassed both phonics and `whole-word' teaching, combining this with a traditional `spelling' method. It outlines an approach in which emergent writing derived from speaking and listening provides an essentially meaningful initial activity for young children, offering them a pleasurable and easy pathway to reading and literacy. The article looks at innovative interpretations of Steiner's original indications regarding the teaching of writing and reading and recommends systematic research into existing practice in Steiner Schools.
The logographic nature of English alphabetics and the fallacy of direct intensive phonics instruction
Authors: Strauss Steven L. , Altwerger Bess
Published: November 2007

US government mandates to implement intensive phonics instruction in elementary classrooms invoke an alleged scientific superiority of this approach over more meaning-centered models. But curiously absent from this scientific enterprise is a study of the phonics system itself. Advocates of intensive phonics have not demonstrated that the commonly taught patterns are capable of imparting the desired amount of decoding abilities to developing readers. In fact, the English phonics system operates at a level of complexity that essentially defies teachability. The explanation for this level of complexity is the logographic nature of English alphabetics. Recent neuroimaging research does not independently support intensive phonics, despite claims to the contrary, because the capacity of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) machines to identify brain regions used for decoding says nothing about the role of decoding in reading. Neuroimaging does not distinguish the phonological processing of a decoding model of reading from the graphophonic processing of a meaning-centered model. A recent multiclassroom study comparing distinct reading instruction practices found that letter-sound patterns were actually learned better by children in whole language classrooms than children in intensive phonics classrooms. We conclude that neither linguistic, neuroscientific, nor classroom research has demonstrated the superiority of intensive phonics over meaning-centered approaches to reading.
Review Series: Chronic cough: Common causes and current guidelines
Authors: McGarvey L.P.A. , Polley L. , MacMahon J.
Published: November 2007

Chronic cough is a common and disabling symptom. Recent guidelines have attempted to provide direction in the clinical management of cough in both primary and secondary care. They have also provided a critical review of the available literature and identified gaps in current knowledge. Despite this they have been criticized for a reliance on a low quality evidence base. In this review, we summarize the current consensus on the clinical management of chronic cough and attempt to rationalize this based on recent evidence. We have also provided an overview of the likely pathophysiological mechanisms responsible for cough and highlighted areas, where knowledge deficits exist and suggest directions for future research. Such progress will be critical in the search for new and effective treatments for cough. Chronic Respiratory Disease 2007; 4: 215—223
Community learning disability teams
Authors: Slevin Eamonn , McConkey Roy , Truesdale-Kennedy Maria , Barr Owen , Taggart Laurence
Published: November 2007

The locus of care for people with learning disabilities has shifted from institutional/residential care to community care, with Community Learning Disability Teams (CLDTs) providing support for people with learning disabilities, and their family caregivers, in the community. A survey of the perceived effectiveness of 145 CLDT members, 27 family caregivers and 21 people with a learning disability was undertaken. Findings suggest high levels of perceived effectiveness with the services provided by the CLDTs, but caregivers gave the lowest satisfaction ratings. Although overall effectiveness was rated highly there is no room for complacency. There was limited evidence to support the view that multidisciplinary CLDTs are more effective than unidisciplinary teams. Further research is required in this area and ongoing evaluation of the effectiveness of CLDTs is suggested.
Protein kinase C–associated kinase is required for NF-κB signaling and survival in diffuse large B-cell lymphoma cells
Authors: Kim Sang-Woo , Oleksyn David W. , Rossi Randall M. , Jordan Craig T. , Sanz Ignacio , Chen Luojing , Zhao Jiyong
Published: November 2007

Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) is an aggressive and the most common type of non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Despite recent advances in treatment, less than 50% of the patients are cured with current multiagent chemotherapy. Abnormal NF-κB activity not only contributes to tumor development but also renders cancer cells resistant to chemotherapeutic agents. Identifying and targeting signaling molecules that control NF-κB activation in cancer cells may thus yield more effective therapy for DLBCL. Here, we show that while overexpression of protein kinase C–associated kinase (PKK) activates NF-κB signaling in DLBCL cells, suppression of PKK expression inhibits NF-κB activity in these cells. In addition, we show that NF-κB activation induced by B cell–activating factor of tumor necrosis factor family (BAFF) in DLBCL cells requires PKK. Importantly, we show that knockdown of PKK impairs the survival of DLBCL cells in vitro and inhibits tumor growth of xenografted DLBCL cells in mice. Suppression of PKK expression also sensitizes DLBCL cells to treatment with chemotherapeutic agents. Together, these results indicate that PKK plays a pivotal role in the survival of human DLBCL cells and represents a potential target for DLBCL therapy.
RNAi screening of the tyrosine kinome identifies therapeutic targets in acute myeloid leukemia
Authors: Tyner Jeffrey W. , Walters Denise K. , Willis Stephanie G. , Luttropp Mary , Oost Jason , Loriaux Marc , Erickson Heidi , Corbin Amie S. , O'Hare Thomas , Heinrich Michael C. , Deininger Michael W. , Druker Brian J.
Published: November 2007

Despite vast improvements in our understanding of cancer genetics, a large percentage of cancer cases present without knowledge of the causative genetic events. Tyrosine kinases are frequently implicated in the pathogenesis of numerous types of cancer, but identification and validation of tyrosine kinase targets in cancer can be a time-consuming process. We report the establishment of an efficient, functional screening assay using RNAi technology to directly assess and compare the effect of individually targeting each member of the tyrosine kinase family. We demonstrate that siRNA screening can identify tyrosine kinase targets containing activating mutations in Janus kinase (JAK) 3 (A572V) in CMK cells and c-KIT (V560G) in HMC1.1 cells. In addition, this assay identifies targets that do not contain mutations, such as JAK1 and the focal adhesion kinases (FAK), that are crucial to the survival of the cancer cells. This technique, with additional development, might eventually offer the potential to match specific therapies with individual patients based on a functional assay.
Bmx tyrosine kinase regulates TLR4-induced IL-6 production in human macrophages independently of p38 MAPK and NFκB activity
Authors: Palmer Christine D. , Mutch Brenda E. , Workman Sarita , McDaid John P. , Horwood Nicole J. , Foxwell Brian M. J.
Published: November 2007

Chronic inflammation, as seen in conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and Crohn disease, is in part driven by discordant production of inflammatory cytokines, such as tumor necrosis factor-α and interleukin-6 (IL-6). Tyrosine kinase activity is essential to lipopolysaccharide-induced cytokine production in monocytes, and previous studies by us and others have implicated a role for the Tec kinase Bruton's tyrosine kinase (Btk) in inflammatory cytokine production. Here we show that knockdown of Btk using RNA interference results in decreased tumor necrosis factor-α, but not IL-6 production. Further investigations into the signaling mechanisms regulating IL-6 production led to the discovery that the Tec kinase bone marrow tyrosine kinase gene in chromosome X (Bmx) regulates Toll-like receptor-induced IL-6 production. Our data further showed that Bmx-dependent super-induction of IL-6 does not involve nuclear factor–κB activity. More detailed investigations of pathways downstream of Bmx signaling revealed that Bmx targets the IL-6 3′ untranslated region to increase mRNA stabilization via a novel, thus far undefined, p38 mitogen activated protein kinase-independent pathway. These data have important implications for the design of therapeutics targeted against specific cytokines and their regulators in inflammatory disease.
Regulation of tight junction assembly and epithelial morphogenesis by the heat shock protein Apg-2
Authors: Aijaz Saima , Sanchez-Heras Elena , Balda Maria S , Matter Karl
Published: November 2007

Background

Tight junctions are required for epithelial barrier formation and participate in the regulation of signalling mechanisms that control proliferation and differentiation. ZO-1 is a tight junction-associated adaptor protein that regulates gene expression, junction assembly and epithelial morphogenesis. We have previously demonstrated that the heat shock protein Apg-2 binds ZO-1 and thereby regulates its role in cell proliferation. Here, we addressed the question whether Apg-2 is also important for junction formation and epithelial morphogenesis.

Results

We demonstrate that depletion of Apg-2 by RNAi in MDCK cells did not prevent formation of functional tight junctions. Similar to ZO-1, however, reduced expression of Apg-2 retarded de novo junction assembly if analysed in a Ca-switch model. Formation of functional junctions, as monitored by measuring transepithelial electrical resistance, and recruitment of tight and adherens junction markers were retarded. If cultured in three dimensional extracellular matrix gels, Apg-2 depleted cells, as previously shown for ZO-1 depleted cells, did not form hollow polarised cysts but poorly organised, irregular structures.

Conclusion

Our data indicate that Apg-2 regulates junction assembly and is required for normal epithelial morphogenesis in a three-dimensional culture system, suggesting that Apg-2 is an important regulator of epithelial differentiation. As the observed phenotypes are similar to those previously described for ZO-1 depleted cells and depletion of Apg-2 retards junctional recruitment of ZO-1, regulation of ZO-1 is likely to be an important functional role for Apg-2 during epithelial differentiation.
Differentially expressed genes in embryonic cardiac tissues of mice lacking Folr1gene activity
Authors: Zhu Huiping , Cabrera Robert M , Wlodarczyk Bogdan J , Bozinov Daniel , Wang Deli , Schwartz Robert J , Finnell Richard H
Published: November 2007

Background

Heart anomalies are the most frequently observed among all human congenital defects. As with the situation for neural tube defects (NTDs), it has been demonstrated that women who use multivitamins containing folic acid peri-conceptionally have a reduced risk for delivering offspring with conotruncal heart defects [1–3]. Cellular folate transport is mediated by a receptor or binding protein and by an anionic transporter protein system. Defective function of the Folr1 (also known as Folbp1; homologue of human FRα) gene in mice results in inadequate transport, accumulation, or metabolism of folate during cardiovascular morphogenesis.

Results

We have observed cardiovascular abnormalities including outflow tract and aortic arch arterial defects in genetically compromised Folr1 knockout mice. In order to investigate the molecular mechanisms underlying the failure to complete development of outflow tract and aortic arch arteries in the Folr1 knockout mouse model, we examined tissue-specific gene expression difference between Folr1 nullizygous embryos and morphologically normal heterozygous embryos during early cardiac development (14-somite stage), heart tube looping (28-somite stage), and outflow track septation (38-somite stage). Microarray analysis was performed as a primary screening, followed by investigation using quantitative real-time PCR assays. Gene ontology analysis highlighted the following ontology groups: cell migration, cell motility and localization of cells, structural constituent of cytoskeleton, cell-cell adhesion, oxidoreductase, protein folding and mRNA processing. This study provided preliminary data and suggested potential candidate genes for further description and investigation.

Conclusion

The results suggested that Folr1 gene ablation and abnormal folate homeostasis altered gene expression in developing heart and conotruncal tissues. These changes affected normal cytoskeleton structures, cell migration and motility as well as cellular redox status, which may contribute to cardiovascular abnormalities in mouse embryos lacking Folr1 gene activity.
A novel subgroup Q5 of human Y-chromosomal haplogroup Q in India
Authors: Sharma Swarkar , Rai Ekta , Bhat Audesh K , Bhanwer Amarjit S , Bamezai Rameshwar NK
Published: November 2007

Background

Y-chromosomal haplogroup (Y-HG) Q is suggested to originate in Asia and represent recent founder paternal Native American radiation into the Americas. This group is delineated into Q1, Q2 and Q3 subgroups defined by biallelic markers M120, M25/M143 and M3, respectively. Recently, a novel subgroup Q4 has been identified which is defined by bi-allelic marker M346, representing HG Q (0.41%, 3/728) in Indian population. With scanty details of HG Q in Asia, especially India, it was pertinent to explore the status of the Y-HG Q in Indian population to gather an insight to determine the extent of diversity within this region.

Results

We observed 15/630 (2.38%) Y-HG Q individuals in India with an ancestral state at M120, M25, M3 and M346 markers, indicating an absence of already known Q1, Q2, Q3 and Q4 sub-haplogroups. Interestingly, we further observed a novel 4 bp deletion/insertion polymorphism (ss4 bp, rs41352448) at 72,314 position of human arylsulfatase D pseudogene, defining a novel sub-lineage Q5 (in 5/15 individuals, i.e., 33.3 % of the observed Y-HG Q) with distributions independent of the social, cultural, linguistic and geographical affiliations in India.

Conclusion

The study adds another sublineage Q5 in the already existing arrangement of Y-HG Q in literature. It was quite interesting to observe an ancestral state Q* and a novel sub-branch Q5, not reported elsewhere, in Indian subcontinent, though in low frequency. A novel subgroup Q4 was identified recently which is also restricted to Indian subcontinent. The most plausible explanation for these observations could be an ancestral migration of individuals bearing ancestral lineage Q* to Indian subcontinent followed by an autochthonous differentiation to Q4 and Q5 sublineages later on. However, other explanations of, either the presence of both the sub haplogroups (Q4 and Q5) in ancestral migrants or recent migrations from central Asia, cannot be ruled out till the distribution and diversity of these subgroups is explored extensively in Central Asia and other regions.
Parathyroid adenoma apoplexy as a temporary solution of primary hyperparathyroidism: a case report
Authors: Pereira Francisco A , Brandão Daniel F , Elias Jorge , Paula Francisco JA
Published: November 2007

Introduction

The natural history of patients with spontaneous parathyroid necrosis is unknown. In this case report we describe the clinical course, laboratory, radiographic, bone densitometry tests, parathyroid ultrasonography and scintigraphy examinations of a patient performed over a period of eight years after she first presented with a sudden episode of spontaneous resolution of primary hyperparathyroidism (PHPT).

Case presentation

A 24-year-old woman with a clinical history and laboratory and radiographic tests compatible with PHPT suffered a sudden episode of cervical pain and presented with clinical evidence of hypocalcemia. Biopsy of a cervical nodule revealed necrotic material compatible with ischemia of the parathyroid. The follow-up of the patient presented four distinct phases: the first, which lasted two years, was compatible with a period of bone hunger during which it was necessary to introduce calcitriol and calcium carbonate. During this period, the patient showed bone mass gain. The second phase was characterized by normalization of calcium and parathyroid hormone levels and its end was difficult to define. During the third phase there was a recurrence of hypercalcemia associated with elevated parathyroid hormone (PTH) levels and loss of bone mass. The last phase corresponded to the interval after parathyroidectomy, which was characterized by normalization of serum levels of calcium and PTH, as well as bone mass gain.

Conclusion

This case report indicates that spontaneous resolution of PHPT by adenoma necrosis is potentially temporary. Thus, in cases in which a conservative approach is chosen, clinical and laboratory follow-up is indispensable. Bone mass measurement is a useful tool in the follow-up of these cases. However, this option exposes the patient to a potential roller-coaster ride of bone mass gain and loss, whose long term consequences are still unknown.
Application of genetic algorithms to optimum design of elasto-damping elements of a half-car model under random road excitations
Authors: Mirzaei M , Hassannejad R
Published: November 2007

Vehicle ride comfort could be improved by controlling passenger vertical accelerations induced by random road excitations. In the current paper, to provide a certain level for the passenger's sensation of comfort, optimum values for all elasto-damping elements of the seat and passive suspension system are selected numerically by a genetic algorithm (GA). The root-meansquare (RMS) values of vertical acceleration are first calculated at a series of centre frequencies by power spectral density of an actual random road excitation and then the optimized parameters are found by minimization of difference between the obtained RMS values of acceleration and the boundary values specified by the ISO2631. For determining the applicability of the GA in optimization of the passive suspension system, this method is initially applied to a simple twodegrees-of-freedom (2DOF) half-car model and the results are compared with those obtained by non-linear programming as a gradient-based method. Since the GA proves to be an efficient optimization method, it is easily extended to a more complete 5DOF model. Simulation results demonstrate improvement of vehicle ride comfort and capability of the suggested method in optimizing multi-DOF (MDOF) mechanical systems.
Equations of motion for singular systems of massed and massless bodies
Authors: Zhechev M M
Published: November 2007

In many cases, mechanical systems include elements that differ greatly in inertia characteristics. It seems to be quite natural for a researcher who has to deal with such a system to have the desire to neglect its comparatively small inertia characteristics by putting them equal to zero. On such a simplification, the researcher has to do with a mechanical system that, along with ‘massed’ bodies (all inertia characteristics of which are distinct from zero), also includes ‘massless’ bodies (some inertia characteristics of which are zero). An important feature of systems of massed and massless bodies is that they may turn out to be singular. The analysis of systems of this type, in comparison with regular ones, involves some additional problems, whose solution, despite currently available methods of study of singular and singularly perturbed equations, may present a considerable challenge.

In the current paper, the notion of the ‘rank of a system of massed and massless bodies’ is introduced, and an approach to the solution of the above problems based on this notion is proposed. This approach makes it possible to write generalized Lagrange equations for singular mechanical systems, to identify conditions for going from singularly perturbed equations of motion to singular ones to be correct, to identify conditions for the unique existence of the solution of the resulting singular equations of motion and to write them in normal form.
Identification of equivalent modal damping for a wind turbine at standstill using Fourier and wavelet analysis
Authors: Murtagh P J , Basu B
Published: November 2007

The current paper presents approaches to evaluate the equivalent modal viscous damping ratios for a wind turbine tower, using Fourier and wavelet analysis based linear regression. In the Fourier analysis, the estimated damping ratios are constant, but in the wavelet analysis, temporally varying damping ratios using a time-segmented least squares approach can be identified. The estimation of time varying damping is important in assessing the risk of negative aeroelastic damping in wind turbines. In absence of experimental data, the proposed approaches have been illustrated on numerically simulated response obtained from a simple wind turbine model. The model used for generating the response time history data for the wind turbine tower is composed of a flexible tower and rotor blade system, inter-connected using a substructuring technique, which facilitates the blade/tower coupling. A model order reduction technique is first used to model each of the two substructures (tower/nacelle and rotor system) as single-degree-of-freedom systems (DOF), allowing both systems to be later coupled together to form an equivalent two-DOF coupled tower/blade wind turbine tower model with equivalent viscous damping. A wind-induced forced vibration analysis of the coupled system is then carried out using artificially generated wind drag time histories.

Two identification procedures based on (a) Fourier and (b) wavelet analysis, and linear regression, are used to solve the inverse problem for evaluating the first- and second-equivalent modal damping ratios of the coupled system. For the numerical example presented in order to demonstrate the applicability of the proposed approaches, good agreement was observed between the originally specified modal damping ratios and the subsequently estimated values. The estimation of damping using wavelet analysis techniques can be applied to situations where damping may vary with time. The proposed approaches can be used without any limitation on response data obtained for more complex models of turbines and loadings or on experimentally measured data from wind turbines.
Effects of Thermal History on Thermal Anomaly in Solid of Ionic Liquid Compound, [C4mim][Tf2N]
Authors: Shimizu Yoshitaka , Ohte Yoko , Yamamura Yasuhisa , Saito Kazuya
Published: November 2007

Heat capacity of [C4mim][Tf2N] (1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide) was measured by adiabatic calorimetry. Broad heat capacity anomaly and change in spontaneous endothermic effect were observed for crystal phase. The relation between these anomalies and thermal history after crystallization is described.
Structural Tuning of the Imido Bonds in (Arylimido)vanadium(V) Compounds
Authors: Moriuchi Toshiyuki , Ishino Kenta , Hirao Toshikazu
Published: November 2007

Structural characterization of (arylimido)vanadium(V) compounds was demonstrated to elucidate the ligand effect on the nature of the imido bonds. In the case of the triisopropoxide ligand, the nitrogen of the imido bond is suggested to possess an sp-hybridized character although the participation of an sp2-hybridized character is indicated with the imido nitrogen derived from the triethanolaminate ligand.
The 3′ cap-independent translation element of Barley yellow dwarf virus binds eIF4F via the eIF4G subunit to initiate translation
Authors: Treder Krzysztof , Pettit Kneller Elizabeth L. , Allen Edwards M. , Wang Zhaohui , Browning Karen S. , Miller W. Allen
Published: November 2007

The 3′ cap-independent translation element (BTE) of Barley yellow dwarf virus RNA confers efficient translation initiation at the 5′ end via long-distance base pairing with the 5′-untranslated region (UTR). Here we provide evidence that the BTE functions by recruiting translation initiation factor eIF4F. We show that the BTE interacts specifically with the cap-binding initiation factor complexes eIF4F and eIFiso4F in a wheat germ extract (wge). In wge depleted of cap-interacting factors, addition of eIF4F (and to a lesser extent, eIFiso4F) allowed efficient translation of an uncapped reporter construct (BLucB) containing the BTE in its 3′ UTR. Translation of BLucB required much lower levels of eIF4F or eIFiso4F than did a capped, nonviral mRNA. Both full-length eIF4G and the carboxy-terminal half of eIF4G lacking the eIF4E binding site stimulated translation to 70% of the level obtained with eIF4F, indicating a minor role for the cap-binding protein, eIF4E. In wge inhibited by either BTE in trans or cap analog, eIF4G alone restored translation nearly as much as eIF4F, while addition of eIF4E alone had no effect. The BTE bound eIF4G (Kd = 177 nm) and eIF4F (Kd = 37 nm) with high affinity, but very weakly to eIF4E. These interactions correlate with the ability of the factors to facilitate BTE-mediated translation. These results and previous observations are consistent with a model in which eIF4F is delivered to the 5′ UTR by the BTE, and they show that eIF4G, but not eIF4E, plays a major role in this novel mechanism of cap-independent translation.
Systematic evaluation of microRNA processing patterns in tissues, cell lines, and tumors
Authors: Lee Eun Joo , Baek Myungwon , Gusev Yuriy , Brackett Daniel J. , Nuovo Gerard J. , Schmittgen Thomas D.
Published: November 2007

Very little is known regarding regulation of microRNA (miRNA) biogenesis in normal tissues, tumors, and cell lines. Here, we profiled the expression of 225 precursor and mature miRNAs using real-time PCR and compared the expression levels to determine the processing patterns. RNA from 22 different human tissues, 37 human cancer cell lines, and 16 pancreas and liver tissues/tumors was profiled. The relationship between precursor and mature miRNA expression fell into the following four categories: (1) a direct correlation exists between the precursor and mature miRNA expression in all cells/tissues studied; (2) direct correlation of the precursor and mature miRNA exists, yet the expression is restricted to specific cell lines or tissues; (3) there is detectable expression of mature miRNA in certain cells and tissues while the precursor is expressed in all or most cells/tissues; or (4) both precursor and mature miRNA are not expressed. Pearson correlation between the precursor and mature miRNA expression was closer to one for the tissues but was closer to zero for the cell lines, suggesting that processing of precursor miRNAs is reduced in cancer cell lines. By using Northern blotting, we show that many of these miRNAs (e.g., miR-31, miR-105 and miR-128a) are processed to the precursor, but in situ hybridization analysis demonstrates that these miRNA precursors are retained in the nucleus. We provide a database of the levels of precursor and mature miRNA in a variety of cell types. Our data demonstrate that a large number of miRNAs are transcribed but are not processed to the mature miRNA.
A Model for Fresh Produce Shelf-Space Allocation and Inventory Management with Freshness-Condition-Dependent Demand
Authors: Bai Ruibin , Kendall Graham
Published: November 2007

Asignificant amount of work has investigated inventory control problems associated with fresh produce. Much of this work has considered deteriorating inventory control with many models having been proposed for various situations. However, no researchers have specifically studied fresh produce, which has its own special characteristics. Most research categorizes fresh produce into more general deteriorating categories with random lifetimes and nondecaying utilities. However, this classification is not reasonable or practical because the freshness of an item usually plays an important role in influencing the demand for the produce. In this paper, a single-period inventory and shelf-space allocation model is proposed for fresh produce. These items usually have a very short lifetime. The demand rate is assumed to be deterministic and dependent on both the displayed inventory (the number of facings of items on the shelves) and the items' freshness condition (which decreases over time). Several problem instances of different sizes are provided and solved by a modified generalized reduced gradient algorithm.
Provably Near-Optimal Sampling-Based Policies for Stochastic Inventory Control Models
Authors: Levi Retsef , Roundy Robin O. , Shmoys David B.
Published: November 2007

In this paper, we consider two fundamental inventory models, the single-period newsvendor problem and its multiperiod extension, but under the assumption that the explicit demand distributions are not known and that the only information available is a set of independent samples drawn from the true distributions. Under the assumption that the demand distributions are given explicitly, these models are well studied and relatively straightforward to solve. However, in most real-life scenarios, the true demand distributions are not available, or they are too complex to work with. Thus, a sampling-driven algorithmic framework is very attractive, both in practice and in theory.

We shall describe how to compute sampling-based policies, that is, policies that are computed based only on observed samples of the demands without any access to, or assumptions on, the true demand distributions. Moreover, we establish bounds on the number of samples required to guarantee that, with high probability, the expected cost of the sampling-based policies is arbitrarily close (i.e., with arbitrarily small relative error) compared to the expected cost of the optimal policies, which have full access to the demand distributions. The bounds that we develop are general, easy to compute, and do not depend at all on the specific demand distributions.
Variational Analysis in Nonsmooth Optimization and Discrete Optimal Control
Authors: Mordukhovich Boris S.
Published: November 2007

This paper is devoted to applications of modern methods of variational analysis to constrained optimization and control problems generally formulated in infinite-dimensional spaces. The main focus is on the study of problems with nonsmooth structures, which require the usage of advanced tools of generalized differentiation. In this way we derive new necessary optimality conditions in optimization problems with functional and operator constraints and then apply them to optimal control problems governed by discrete-time inclusions in infinite dimensions. The principal difference between finite-dimensional and infinite-dimensional frameworks of optimization and control consists of the “lack of compactness” in infinite dimensions, which leads to imposing certain “normal compactness” properties and developing their comprehensive calculus, together with appropriate calculus rules of generalized differentiation. On the other hand, one of the most important achievements of the paper consists of relaxing the latter assumptions for certain classes of optimization and control problems. In particular, we fully avoid the requirements of this type imposed on target endpoint sets in infinite-dimensional optimal control for discrete-time inclusions.
Bargaining Sets of Majority Voting Games
Authors: Holzman Ron , Peleg Bezalel , Sudhölter Peter
Published: November 2007

Let A be a finite set of m alternatives, let N be a finite set of n players, and let RN be a profile of linear orders on A of the players. Let uN be a profile of utility functions for RN. We define the nontransferable utility (NTU) game VuN that corresponds to simple majority voting, and investigate its Aumann-Davis-Maschler and Mas-Colell bargaining sets. The first bargaining set is nonempty for m ≤ 3, and it may be empty for m ≥ 4. However, in a simple probabilistic model, for fixed m, the probability that the Aumann-Davis-Maschler bargaining set is nonempty tends to one if n tends to infinity. The Mas-Colell bargaining set is nonempty for m ≤ 5, and it may be empty for m ≥ 6. Furthermore, it may be empty even if we insist that n be odd, provided that m is sufficiently large. Nevertheless, we show that the Mas-Colell bargaining set of any simple majority voting game derived from the k-fold replication of RN is nonempty, provided that k ≥ n+2.
Modeling and Computing Two-Settlement Oligopolistic Equilibrium in a Congested Electricity Network
Authors: Yao Jian , Adler Ilan , Oren Shmuel S.
Published: November 2007

A model of two-settlement electricity markets is introduced, which accounts for flow congestion, demand uncertainty, system contingencies, and market power. We formulate the subgame perfect Nash equilibrium for this model as an equilibrium problem with equilibrium constraints (EPEC), in which each firm solves a mathematical program with equilibrium constraints (MPEC). The model assumes linear demand functions, quadratic generation cost functions, and a lossless DC network, resulting in equilibrium constraints as a parametric linear complementarity problem (LCP). We introduce an iterative procedure for solving this EPEC through repeated application of an MPEC algorithm. This MPEC algorithm is based on solving quadratic programming subproblems and on parametric LCP pivoting. Numerical examples demonstrate the effectiveness of the MPEC and EPEC algorithms and the tractability of the model for realistic-size power systems.
A Linear Decision-Based Approximation Approach to Stochastic Programming
Authors: Chen Xin , Sim Melvyn , Sun Peng , Zhang Jiawei
Published: November 2007

Stochastic optimization, especially multistage models, is well known to be computationally excruciating. Moreover, such models require exact specifications of the probability distributions of the underlying uncertainties, which are often unavailable. In this paper, we propose tractable methods of addressing a general class of multistage stochastic optimization problems, which assume only limited information of the distributions of the underlying uncertainties, such as known mean, support, and covariance. One basic idea of our methods is to approximate the recourse decisions via decision rules. We first examine linear decision rules in detail and show that even for problems with complete recourse, linear decision rules can be inadequate and even lead to infeasible instances. Hence, we propose several new decision rules that improve upon linear decision rules, while keeping the approximate models computationally tractable. Specifically, our approximate models are in the forms of the so-called second-order cone (SOC) programs, which could be solved efficiently both in theory and in practice. We also present computational evidence indicating that our approach is a viable alternative, and possibly advantageous, to existing stochastic optimization solution techniques in solving a two-stage stochastic optimization problem with complete recourse.
To Wait or Not to Wait? The Bicriteria Delay Management Problem in Public Transportation
Authors: Ginkel Andreas , Schöbel Anita
Published: November 2007

Assume that a train reaches a station with delay. At the station there is a bus ready to depart. The question of whether the bus should wait for the delayed train or depart on time is called the delay management problem. Different single objective functions for this problem have been introduced and analyzed. In this paper, we present a bicriteria model for the delay management problem, taking into account both the delay of the vehicles and the number of passengers who miss a connection. Our model does not depend on detailed data about the passengers and hence can be easily implemented in practice.

To analyze the problem, we present an integer programming formulation and a graph-theoretic approach that is based on discrete time/cost trade-off project networks. Using results of project planning, we develop an efficient solution method. We tested our procedure using real-world data. The results show the applicability of the approach.
A Facility Location Model for Bidirectional Flows
Authors: Sahyouni Kristin , Savaskan R. Canan , Daskin Mark S.
Published: November 2007

Recent research on reverse logistics and closed-loop supply chains has produced a number of specialized network design models. We develop three generic facility location models for the integrated distribution and collection of products that accommodate a variety of applications and industries. These models quantify the value of integrated decision making in the design of forward and reverse logistics networks throughout different stages of a product's life cycle. The formulations extend the uncapacitated fixed-charge location model to include the location of used product collection centers and the assignment of product return flows to these centers. In addition, we develop a Lagrangian relaxation-based solution algorithm that is both quick and effective. We measure the implications of integrated decision making by comparing the total facility and transportation costs of our joint optimization models with the cost of solutions in which forward and reverse facility location decisions are made sequentially or independently of one another. In addition, we discuss the implications of integrated decision making on network configuration and introduce a new network similarity measure to quantify this analysis. Computational results are also presented.
Policing Pollution: The Enforcement Process
Authors: Richardson Genevra
Published: November 2007

The article presents findings of an empirical study of the enforcement of controls relating to the discharge of trade effluent into public sewers. The research was designed to examine the extent to which the process of implementation shaped the nature of the controls and focuses particularly on the discretion vested in the individuals concerned with the daily enforcement of the controls. The article discusses the factors which influence the exercise of that discretion. In particular, the field officers’ attitudes towards the costs imposed on the traders by compliance and those imposed on society by non-compliance are examined and the relevance attached to the intentions of the trader is discussed. The article concludes, in the first place, that the regular priority given by the officers to the costs of noncompliance does not necessarily coincide with orthodox economic theory in relation to the pursuit of social efficiency and, secondly, that the emphasis placed by the officers on the intentions of the trader helps to alleviate some of the theoretical problems attaching to the imposition of strict liability, although their attitude does raise questions concerning the ultimate justification for the imposition of the criminal sanction.
Exchange Networks and Implementation
Authors: Thrasher Michael
Published: November 2007

Implementation research utilising a ‘bottom-up’ approach has identified the presence of implementation structures. These structures are comprised of individual implementors from a variety of public and private organisations co-operating to administer policy. This paper suggests that in such cases implementors are involved in a process of resource exchange which results in a network of implementors being formed. Concepts drawn from social exchange theory and network analysis are then used to describe some of the means whereby implementation structures are developed, maintained and adapted. The second part of the paper explores three methods for remedying the possible dysfunctional effects of implementation behaviour dependent on a resource exchange network. We do not assume, however, that this behaviour is necessarily contrary to the aims and objectives of policy — networks may, in fact, prove to be a more efficient way of implementing policy than bureaucracies.
The Control of Chemical Carcinogens in Britain
Authors: Irwin Alan , Green Kenneth
Published: November 2007

This paper considers the state management of a particular form of technological risk. It focuses on the control of carcinogenic substances in Britain and on the advisory structures which have been established to aid decision-making. The major advisory committees involved are examined with a view to characterising their major features and principles of operation. The paper also discusses how consistency and co-ordination might be achieved between the various committees. The specific issue of public participation is introduced with emphasis on the recent controversy over the pesticide 2,4,5-T and the political pressures which are seeking to transfer responsibility for pesticide safety towards a ‘representative’ rather than an ‘expert’ decision-making forum.
Trade Unions, the Family Lobby and the Callaghan Government - The Case of Child Benefits
Authors: McCarthy M. A.
Published: November 2007

This article examines the dogged progress of the child benefit scheme during the mid-seventies and illuminates in particular the campaign for its introduction conducted by the Child Poverty Action Group. In doing so it places the episode in the perspective of earlier attempts in the sixties and seventies to improve the lot of poor families. Against the backcloth of apparent prevarication by the Callaghan Government the piece also raises the question of how groups lacking social and economic ‘muscle’ may influence governments and it examines the prospects of liaison with the trade union movement as one means of this. Notably, the article examines the usefulness of a ‘cabinet leak’ in adding to a group’s armoury of tactics.
A Public Service Industry Approach to the Study of Local Government Structure and Performance
Authors: Ostrom Elinor
Published: November 2007

The dominant approach to studying local government organisation in metropolitan areas has assumed that the presence of large numbers of independent governmental units is a sign of chaos and dysfunction. An alternative approach to the study of multiple actor systems in metropolitan areas is presented. A method for describing the structure of public service industries in metropolitan areas is illustrated. Several hypotheses concerning the effect of the structure of metropolitan service industries are explored.
Subsystem Politics and Corporatism in the United States
Authors: Milward H. Brinton , Francisco Ronald A.
Published: November 2007

Recent changes in American politics, particularly the rise and proliferation of public, single and professional interest groups, are difficult to account for in traditional pluralist or elite formulations. These groups not only try to affect policy at the point of adoption, but also penetrate intergovernmental delivery systems during the implementation stage of the policy process. In this way American groups and organisations perform the same sort of interest intermediate functions as their European counterparts. Hence, U.S. politics increasingly resembles the European/Scandinavian model of corporatism — with a crucial difference. Because in the US there is no central, overarching coordination of policy sectors, only the sectors (e.g., housing, welfare) are corporatist. Thus, the United States suffers from the costs of corporatism (e.g., alienation of individuals, atrophy of legislatures) but gains none of the benefits (e.g., economic and social planning, coordinated resource allocation among sectors).