bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Judging Police Misconduct: “Street-Level” versus Professional Policing
Authors: Seron Carroll , Pereira Joseph , Kovath Jean
Published: November 2004

In their interactions with citizens, police officers are prohibited from (1) using unnecessary Force, (2) Abusing their authority, (3) speaking Discourteously, or (4) using Offensive language, all captured by the acronym FADO. However, acts of police misconduct are complex social phenomena that involve both following legal guidelines and responding to extralegal or mitigating circumstances. Using a factorial survey of police-civilian interactions that introduce various dimensions of FADO and surrounding circumstances, respondents are asked to rate from zero to ten the seriousness of police misconduct in an encounter. Findings show that respondents' judgments of the seriousness of misconduct consider both legal and extralegal dimensions. On the legal side of the ledger, officers' unnecessary use of force and use of offensive language significantly increase judgments of serious misconduct; on the extralegal side of the ledger, civilians' confrontational demeanor significantly reduces judgments of serious misconduct. The findings suggest that citizens expect officers to behave professionally, or by the book, but with a recognition that “street-level” discretion has a place in an officer's toolkit. Citizens' expectations that street-level discretion has its place is also demonstrated by findings for the dimension abuse of authority: Abuse or threatening behavior by officers is not a significant predictor of serious police misconduct. In addition, characteristics of the respondents explain propensities to observe different degrees of police misconduct. Controlling for the social status, political orientation, and prior experience of respondents with the police, we find that (1) blacks rate police misconduct significantly higher than their white counterparts, and (2) liberals rate police misconduct significantly higher than their conservative counterparts. Differences in judgments by blacks and whites and by liberals and conservatives concerning judgments of police misconduct have important implications for the legitimacy of police authority.
Negotiating Sequential Boundaries and Learning Opportunities: A Case from a Japanese Language Classroom
Authors: Mori Junko
Published: November 2004

Using the methodological framework of conversation analysis (CA) as a central tool for analysis, this study examines a peer interactive task that occurred in a Japanese as a foreign language classroom. During the short segment of interaction, the students shifted back and forth between the development of an assigned task and the management of problems associated with their lack of lexical knowledge. The close observation of the participants' vocal and nonvocal conduct during these different types of sequences and sequential boundaries demonstrates how the students transform in a moment‐by‐moment fashion their converging or diverging orientations towards varying types of learning and learning opportunities. Through the presentation of a single case analysis, this study discusses one way of applying CA techniques to the study of classroom interaction in order to promote an overall sensitivity to the intricacies of classroom talk and to generate critical reflection on classroom policies and instructional designs.
Zones of Interactional Transition in ESL Classes
Authors: Markee Numa
Published: November 2004

This article uses conversation analysis (CA) to describe the structural properties of zones of interactional transition (ZITs) or talk that occurs at the boundaries of different classroom (and perhaps other institutionally oriented) speech exchange systems. Two types of ZIT are analyzed in detail. Counter question sequences (Markee, 1995) are interactions in which teachers, in order to regain control of the classroom agenda, insert counter question turns between the question and answer turns of question‐answer‐comment sequences initiated by learners. Tactical fronting talk involves ambiguous or misleading claims made by learners to the teacher concerning precisely who is having trouble understanding problematic language. ZITs are loci of potential trouble, whose explication is of interest to both CA and second language acquisition researchers, and also to teachers and teacher trainers.
Models of discourse in the letter of complaint
Authors: Hartford Beverly , Mahboob Ahmar
Published: November 2004

Abstract:  In both the Outer Circle and the Expanding Circle countries, books which provide examples of letters written in English and guidelines for writing these letters are available for students, business people, and any others who have an interest or need for writing such letters. These model letters are not only for business correspondence, but also cover different topics such as invitations, sympathy, and congratulations to friends. One common model is the letter of complaint, for business settings, between individuals, and in particular the Letter to the Editor. Letters to Editors are one of the richest natural data sources for the speech act of Complaint, and we examine these models for their discourse structure, the types of semantic formulas used, and reference choices for the complainant, the object of complaint, the parties affected by the object of complaint, and the party responsible for the object of complaint. We then compare these models to actual letters to editors in English language newspapers published in Pakistan and Nepal. We find that the actual letters match the models quite closely, and conclude that such resources should play a larger part in the investigation of language usage in world Englishes studies.
Job applications and students’ complaint letters in Cameroon
Authors: Nkemleke Daniel
Published: November 2004

Abstract:  This paper analyses some 99 job applications and 239 student complaint letters collected over a period of five years. The investigation focuses on two broad aspects of these letters: firstly, opening and closing statements; and secondly, internal discourse strategies. Findings reveal that apart from a general uncertainty as to which of the complimentary closes (Yours sincerely or Yours faithfully) should be selected for letters beginning ‘Dear + Sir’ and ‘Dear + a name’, job applications and students’ complaint letters are fast developing distinctive linguistic and discourse characteristics of their own in Cameroon.
Interferons, interferon‐like cytokines, and their receptors
Authors: Pestka Sidney , Krause Christopher D. , Walter Mark R.
Published: November 2004

Summary:  Recombinant interferon‐α (IFN‐α) was approved by regulatory agencies in many countries in 1986. As the first biotherapeutic approved, IFN‐α paved the way for the development of many other cytokines and growth factors. Nevertheless, understanding the functions of the multitude of human IFNs and IFN‐like cytokines has just touched the surface. This review summarizes the history of the purification of human IFNs and the key aspects of our current state of knowledge of human IFN genes, proteins, and receptors. All the known IFNs and IFN‐like cytokines are described [IFN‐α, IFN‐β, IFN‐ε, IFN‐κ, IFN‐ω, IFN‐δ, IFN‐τ, IFN‐γ, limitin, interleukin‐28A (IL‐28A), IL‐28B, and IL‐29] as well as their receptors and signal transduction pathways. The biological activities and clinical applications of the proteins are discussed. An extensive section on the evolution of these molecules provides some new insights into the development of these proteins as major elements of innate immunity. The overall structure of the IFNs is put into perspective in relation to their receptors and functions.
Lymphotoxin and LIGHT signaling pathways and target genes
Authors: Schneider Kirsten , Potter Karen G. , Ware Carl F.
Published: November 2004

Summary:  Lymphotoxins (LTα and LTβ), LIGHT [homologous to LT, inducible expression, competes with herpes simplex virus (HSV) glycoprotein D for HSV entry mediator (HVEM), a receptor expressed on T lymphocytes], tumor necrosis factor (TNF), and their specific receptors LTβR, HVEM, and TNF receptor 1 (TNFR1) and TNFR2, form the immediate family of the larger TNF superfamily. These cytokines establish a critical communication system required for the development of secondary lymphoid tissues; however, knowledge of the target genes activated by these signaling pathways is limited. Target genes regulated by the LTαβ‐LTβR pathway include the tissue‐organizing chemokines, CXCL13, CCL19, and CCL21, which establish cytokine circuits that regulate LT expression on lymphocytes, leading to organized lymphoid tissue. Infectious disease models have revealed that LTαβ pathways are also important for innate and adaptive immune responses involved in host defense. Here, regulation of interferon‐β by LTβR and TNFR signaling may play a crucial role in certain viral infections. Regulation of autoimmune regulator in the thymus via LTβR implicates LT/LIGHT involvement in central tolerance. Dysregulated expression of LIGHT overrides peripheral tolerance leading to T‐cell‐driven autoimmune disease. Blockade of TNF/LT/LIGHT pathways as an intervention in controlling autoimmune diseases is attractive, but such therapy may have risks. Thus, identifying and understanding the target genes may offer an opportunity to fine‐tune inhibitory interventions.
IL‐12 and IL‐23: master regulators of innate and adaptive immunity
Authors: Langrish Claire L. , McKenzie Brent S. , Wilson Nicholas J. , De Waal Malefyt Rene , Kastelein Robert A. , Cua Daniel J.
Published: November 2004

Summary:  Initiation of an effective immune response requires close interactions between innate and adaptive immunity. Recent advances in the field of cytokine biology have led to an increased understanding of how myeloid cell‐derived factors regulate the immune system to protect the host from infections and prevent tumor development. In this review, we focus on the function of interleukin (IL)‐23, a new member of the IL‐12 family of regulatory cytokines produced by activated macrophages and dendritic cells. We propose that IL‐12 and IL‐23 promote two distinct immunological pathways that have separate but complementary functions. IL‐12 is required for antimicrobial responses to intracellular pathogens, whereas IL‐23 is likely to be important for the recruitment and activation of a range of inflammatory cells that is required for the induction of chronic inflammation and granuloma formation. These two cytokines work in concert to regulate cellular immune responses critical for host defense and tumor suppression.
Interleukin‐13 in asthma pathogenesis
Authors: Wills‐Karp Marsha
Published: November 2004

Summary:  Bronchial asthma is a complex disorder that is thought to arise as a result of aberrant T‐lymphocyte responses to noninfectious environmental antigens. In particular, the symptoms of asthma are closely associated with the presence of activated T‐helper 2 cell (Th2) cytokine‐producing cells [interleukin (IL)‐4, IL‐5, IL‐9, and IL‐13] in the airway wall. Although each of the Th2 cytokines likely contributes to the overall immune response directed against environmental antigens, a substantial body of evidence points to a singular role for IL‐13 in the regulation of the allergic diathesis. Initial studies in animal models of disease provided compelling evidence that IL‐13, independently of other Th2 cytokines, was both necessary and sufficient to induce all features of allergic asthma. The importance of IL‐13 in allergic disorders in humans is supported by consistent associations between tissue IL‐13 levels and genetic variants in the IL‐13 gene with asthma and related traits. With the preponderance of evidence continuing to support a pivotal role for IL‐13 in allergic disorders, attention is now turned toward understanding the mechanisms by which this cytokine may mediate the pathophysiological features of allergic disease. The emerging paradigm is that IL‐13 induces features of the allergic response via a complex array of actions on resident airway cells rather than through traditional effector pathways involving eosinophils and immunoglobulin E‐mediated events. In light of these recent developments, this review explores our current understanding of the singular role of IL‐13 in the pathogenesis of asthma, with a particular focus on new insights into the mechanisms by which IL‐13 mediates various features of asthma.
Prediction of pregnancy by intrauterine insemination using CASA estimates and strict criteria in patients with male factor infertility
Authors: Shibahara Hiroaki , Obara Hiromi , Ayustawati  , Hirano Yuki , Suzuki Tatsuya , Ohno Akiko , Takamizawa Satoru , Suzuki Mitsuaki
Published: November 2004

This study was performed to predict pregnancy by intrauterine insemination (IUI) using computer‐aided sperm analysis (CASA) estimates and strict criteria in patients with male factor infertility. IUI was performed in 682 cycles on 160 male factor infertile patients. Semen examinations were carried out by CASA and strict criteria before and after sperm preparation using continuous‐step density gradient centrifugation. Receiver operating characteristics (ROC) curves were constructed for assessment of the effectiveness of each individual parameter in predicting pregnancy by IUI. A clinically acceptable threshold was calculated when sensitivity plus specificity were maximum. The average cycle of IUI performed was 4.3 ± 2.4. Pregnancy rate per cycle and per patient were 7.2% (49/682) and 28.1% (45/160), respectively. Using ROC curve, it was shown that normal sperm morphology assessed by the strict criteria before sperm separation and five parameters after sperm separation including rapid, progressive motility, average path velocity (VAP), curvilinear velocity (VCL), and straight line velocity (VSL) were able to predict pregnancy by IUI. Correlation between sperm parameters and pregnancy outcome was examined by the logistic regression model. In a multivariate analysis normal morphology before sperm separation ≥15.5% [odds ratio (OR) = 2.2, p = 0.02], rapid after sperm separation ≥25.5% [OR = 3.9, p = 0.029], and VCL after sperm separation ≥102.65 μm/sec [OR = 3.2, p = 0.002] were the parameters of predictive value for pregnancy outcome. Adjustment of the model for female age, female infertility factors, and the methods of ovulation induction did not change this finding, and the final model still had the same covariates. Pregnancy rates per cycle according to the number (0, 1, 2 and 3) of variables satisfied with the three parameters were 0% (0/110), 1.6% (3/183), 9.7% (21/217) and 15.1% (23/151), respectively. Three semen parameters including normal morphology before sperm separation, rapid and VCL after sperm separation were identified as predictors of pregnancy by IUI. These variables would be helpful when counselling patients before they make the decision to proceed with in vitro fertilization (IVF)/intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI)‐ET.
Enhanced inducible nitric oxide synthase expression and nitrotyrosine accumulation in experimental granulomatous hepatitis caused by Toxocara canis in mice
Authors: Fan C.‐K. , Lin Y.‐H. , Hung C.‐C. , Chang S.‐F. , Su K.‐E.
Published: November 2004

The involvement of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and nitrotyrosine (NT) in pathogenesis of toxocaral granulomatous hepatitis (TGH) in a murine host was quantitatively determined by biochemical, parasitological, pathological, and immunohistochemical assessments in a 42‐week investigation. Mice were sacrificed for serum collection and histological processing as well as acid–pepsin digestion of the liver in a larval recovery study. Significantly increased levels of total serum NO were found in the trial, indirectly suggesting iNOS activation in the liver. iNOS reactivity was predominantly observed in infiltrating leucocytes in lesions and normal and apocrine‐like cholangiocytes; in contrast, hepatocytes and multinucleated giant cells showed negative cytoplasmic staining in TGH. Strong iNOS‐like reactivity was also detected on the body wall of larvae. The locations of NT reactivity were nearly identical to those of iNOS expression; infiltrating leucocytes or cholangiocytes stained for iNOS were also stained for NT in TGH. Enhanced iNOS expression, but not invading larvae (r = 0·256, P = 0·211), seemed to play a certain role in pathological damage in TGH due to a significant correlation between iNOS expression and serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT) levels (r =0·593, P = 0·021) in the trial. Our present results indicate a potential therapeutic strategy for treatment of GH caused by other nematodes through manipulation of iNOS expression.
Learning ‘Peace Talk’ in Northern Ireland: Peer Mediation and Some Conceptual Issues Concerning Experiential Social Education
Authors: Moffat Chris
Published: November 2004

Experiential learning is often seen as a central component of social education and pastoral programmes such as peer mediation; but the precise nature of experience as an educational, social and pedagogic/cultural process in schools is complex. This paper uses the notion of experiential learning to explore the impact of a peer mediation programme in a transforming integrated school in Northern Ireland. The programme was intended to mainstream the involvement of pupils in the process of creating a more integrated school ethos and was implemented by youth workers working as members of the school staff.

The paper begins with a review of the theoretical basis of experience as educational. This is followed by an interpretative review of the results of a survey of pupils' attitudes to peer mediation and semi‐structured interviews with pupils and school and project staff about their perception of the impact of the programme on ideas of social learning. One issue is the extent to which developing pupils' capacity for interactive dialogue can be seen as an experiential process, like learning a foreign language – hence ‘peace talk’. Another is the process by which the perception of peer mediation training as ‘experiential’ constituted an enabling ‘pedagogic discourse’ which legitimized the programme for teachers and affirmed its beneficial impact on pupils.
‘Lost for Words’ in Hull
Authors: Holland John
Published: November 2004

This paper reports on a research based project ‘Lost for Words’, which is a loss‐awareness training pack developed by the City Psychological Service, Hull Learning and Cultural Services, in a multi‐agency and multiprofessional context. ‘Lost for Words’ responded to identified needs in both schools and bereaved children and was based on research in schools and with adults bereaved of a parent when they were at school. Several local initiatives were put into place in concert with the local hospice, including ‘help’ leaflets for local schools and library and resource centres. The paper also reports the evaluation of the project in Hull, which showed an increase in the number of schools training staff in the area of loss, and of schools having a procedure or policy for loss. Schools rated the area of bereavement highly, although loss through parental separation was rated even higher. The majority of schools thought that more loss training was needed, and the tracking of the book Wise Before the Event showed how input can ‘wash‐out’, as the percentage of schools aware of the publication has declined over time.
Hexavalent Chromium and Lung Cancer in the Chromate Industry: A Quantitative Risk Assessment
Authors: Park Robert M. , Bena James F. , Stayner Leslie T. , Smith Randall J. , Gibb Herman J. , Lees Peter S. J.
Published: November 2004

The purpose of this investigation was to estimate excess lifetime risk of lung cancer death resulting from occupational exposure to hexavalent‐chromium‐containing dusts and mists. The mortality experience in a previously studied cohort of 2,357 chromate chemical production workers with 122 lung cancer deaths was analyzed with Poisson regression methods. Extensive records of air samples evaluated for water‐soluble total hexavalent chromium were available for the entire employment history of this cohort. Six different models of exposure‐response for hexavalent chromium were evaluated by comparing deviances and inspection of cubic splines. Smoking (pack‐years) imputed from cigarette use at hire was included in the model. Lifetime risks of lung cancer death from exposure to hexavalent chromium (assuming up to 45 years of exposure) were estimated using an actuarial calculation that accounts for competing causes of death. A linear relative rate model gave a good and readily interpretable fit to the data. The estimated rate ratio for 1 mg/m3‐yr of cumulative exposure to hexavalent chromium (as CrO3), with a lag of five years, was RR= 2.44 (95% CI = 1.54–3.83). The excess lifetime risk of lung cancer death from exposure to hexavalent chromium at the current OSHA permissible exposure limit (PEL) (0.10 mg/m3) was estimated to be 255 per 1,000 (95% CI: 109–416). This estimate is comparable to previous estimates by U.S. EPA, California EPA, and OSHA using different occupational data. Our analysis predicts that current occupational standards for hexavalent chromium permit a lifetime excess risk of dying of lung cancer that exceeds 1 in 10, which is consistent with previous risk assessments.
Risk Management for Leontief‐Based Interdependent Systems
Authors: Jiang Pu , Haimes Yacov Y.
Published: November 2004

When stricken by a terrorist attack, a war, or a natural disaster, an economic unit or a critical infrastructure may suffer significant loss of productivity. More importantly, due to interdependency or interconnectedness, this initial loss may propagate into other systems and eventually lead to much greater derivative loss. This belongs to what is known as a cascading effect. It is demonstrated in this article that the cascading effect and the derivative loss can be significantly reduced by effective risk management. This is accomplished by deliberately distributing the initial inoperability to other systems so that the total loss (or inoperability) is minimized. The optimal distribution strategy is found by a linear programming technique. The same risk management can also be applied to situations where objectives need to be prioritized. A case study featuring 12 economic sectors illustrates the theory. The result suggests that using the same amount of resources, minimizing risk (inoperability) of infrastructures will generally give rise to highest payoff, whereas overlooking it may result in greatest total loss. The framework developed in this work uses a steady‐state approach that applies primarily to managing situations where the attack is catastrophic resulting in very long recovery time.
Role of Comparative Risk Assessment in Addressing Environmental Security in the Middle East
Authors: Tal Alon , Linkov Igor
Published: November 2004

During the 21st century, environmental challenges are likely to intensify across the world and possibly lead to violent conflicts. Strategies for conflict avoidance will be incomplete unless they recognize, discuss, and mitigate regional environmental stress factors. Comparative risk assessment (CRA) is one of the most critical tools emerging to influence modern environmental policies and is increasingly used to create a common language to help reconcile competing interests in development and environmental disputes around the world. This article considers the environmental challenges facing the Middle East in light of their “transboundary” nature and proposes CRA as a framework for setting environmental priorities and reducing tensions in the region.
Reactions to Genetically Modified Food Crops and How Perception of Risks and Benefits Influences Consumers' Information Gathering
Authors: Wilson Carlene , Evans Greg , Leppard Phil , Syrette Julie
Published: November 2004

Previous research has reported strong consumer perception that genetically modified (GM) food crops may lead to adverse outcomes in a number of different areas. This is despite the widespread promulgation of the potential benefits and opportunities ascribed to the same technology by many scientists and other experts. A computer‐based information gathering and evaluation task was completed by 198 adults to assess the extent to which their initial focus on the dangers or opportunities of genetic modification, or both, could be ascribed to the manner in which they gathered information on the topic (heuristically vs. systematically). Results did not confirm the hypothesis that initial focus (risks, benefits, or both) predicted ongoing information gathering and evaluation behavior. Moreover, also contrary to prediction, most participants primarily used systematic strategies when deriving their initial position, regardless of that opinion. Participants found it difficult to achieve a balanced perspective on GM food crop, even though balanced argument, as measured by order of story selection and time spent reading, was preferred as the source of information. Perceived importance is probably the most influential variable determining information gathering about issues or events to which a level of risk is attached.
Psychological Determinants of Willingness to Taste and Purchase Genetically Modified Food
Authors: Townsend Ellen , Campbell Scott
Published: November 2004

Decreasing acceptance of biotechnologies over time has been reported in Europe. Studies claim that attitudes are negative, even hostile, and that people are very worried about genetic engineering in food and medicine. However, such studies are mostly based on surveys and these have significant methodological problems, such as low response rates, which may indicate that only those with strong views respond, thus biasing the sample. Here an alternative method, involving “topic‐blind” recruitment of participants and a behavioral measure (food tasting), was used. We show that in a topic‐blind sample of 100 individuals, 93% willingly tasted and ate what they believed to be genetically modified (GM) food in an experimental setting, and 48% said they would buy GM food in the future, results that are surprising in the context of other reports about attitudes and intentions toward GM food. Purchasers and nonpurchasers differed in their attitudes toward GM food on key risk‐related scales (particularly on a dread‐not dread scale—a measure of integral affect—and an ethical‐unethical scale). Despite these differences, however, and despite their negative attitude, most nonpurchasers (85.7%) still tasted the GM apple. Incidental affect (state stress and trait worry) was not found to influence risk‐related judgments about GM food. Integral affect (dread of GM plants and animals used for food) and concerns about the future risks of GM animals in food were found to be key predictors of willingness to purchase GM food.
Risk and Climate Change: Perceptions of Key Policy Actors in Canada
Authors: Stedman Richard C.
Published: November 2004

This article examines factors that predict perceptions of risk associated with global climate change. The research focuses on the perceptions of those associated with climate change policy making in the prairie region of Canada. The data are from an online survey (n= 851) of those policy actors. The analysis integrates several dominant approaches to the study of risk perception: psychometric approaches that examine the effects of cognitive structure; demographic assessments that examine, for example, differences in perception based on gender or family status; and political approaches that suggest that one's position in the policy process may affect his or her perceived risk. Attitudes toward climate change are to a degree predicted by all of these factors, but only when indirect effects are observed. Sociodemographic characteristics have little direct effect on perceived risk, but do affect general beliefs that affect risk perceptions. Perceived risk is related more strongly to these general beliefs or world views than to more specific beliefs about the effects of climate change on weather patterns. Position within the policy process also contributes to our understanding of perceptions, with industry and governmental actors demonstrating similar attitudes, which contrast with environmental groups and university researchers.
The Role of Payout Ratio in the Relationship Between Stock Returns and Dividend Yield
Authors: McManus Ian , Ap Gwilym Owain , Thomas Stephen
Published: November 2004

Abstract:  This paper examines the relationship between returns and dividend yield in the UK stock market, and introduces earnings‐related data to the asset pricing model in the form of payout ratio. The latter has a considerable effect upon the inferences which would otherwise be drawn from a study of the dividend yield‐returns relationship in the absence of such earnings information. Payout ratio conveys additional signalling information and is an important adjunct to dividend yield in explaining returns.
FOREX Risk: Measurement and Evaluation Using Value‐at‐Risk
Authors: Bredin Don , Hyde Stuart
Published: November 2004

Abstract:  We measure and evaluate the performance of a number of Value‐at‐Risk (VaR) methods using a portfolio based on the foreign exchange exposure of a small open economy (Ireland) among its trading partners. The sample period highlights the changing nature of Ireland’s exposure to risk over the past decade in the run‐up to EMU. Our results offer an indication of the level of accuracy of the various approaches and discuss the issues of models ensuring statistical accuracy or more conservative leanings. Our findings suggest that the Orthogonal GARCH model is the most accurate methodology while the EWMA specification is the more conservative approach.
Odd‐lot Costs and Taxation Influences on Stock Dividend Ex‐dates
Authors: Anderson Hamish D. , Rose Lawrence C. , Cahan Steven F.
Published: November 2004

Abstract:  Past research has revealed significant abnormal ex‐date returns for stock dividends even though the ex‐date is known in advance and the distribution contains no new information. Various researchers have suggested that the higher transaction cost of selling odd‐lot share parcels compared to round‐lot share parcels is a key driver in the abnormal returns. However, no study to date has directly compared the ex‐date price reaction of stock dividends distributed when odd‐lot transaction costs were charged to those issued when odd‐lot costs were not evident. As odd‐lot trade costs were eliminated from the New Zealand Stock Exchange on 1 October, 1991, the New Zealand market provides a unique opportunity to directly test the role, if any, that odd‐lot transactions costs have in explaining stock dividend ex‐date returns. We find that prior to October 1991 stock dividend ex‐dates exhibit significantly positive returns, however, we do not find any significant ex‐date return once the higher odd‐lot transaction costs were removed. The New Zealand market also enables us to examine an imputation tax based argument of the ex‐date price reaction and we find evidence that imputation tax credits have a value greater than zero.
Income Smoothing, Earnings Quality and Firm Valuation
Authors: Bao Ben‐Hsien , Bao Da‐Hsien
Published: November 2004

Abstract:  This study argues that lower variability of earnings does not guarantee income smoothers’ higher firm values. Instead, smoothers’ earnings should be more value‐relevant if they are of high quality, i.e., earnings quality should be considered simultaneously. Sample firms are divided into four groups: quality earnings smoothers, quality earnings non‐smoothers, non‐quality earnings smoothers, and non‐quality earnings non‐smoothers. Value relevance of reported earnings is then studied using both the levels and the changes approaches with indicator variables. Results show quality earnings smoothers have the highest price‐earnings multiple while non‐quality non‐smoothers have the lowest price‐earnings multiple.
Operating Performance and Stock Returns of Firms Calling Convertible Preferred Stocks
Authors: Kadapakkam Palani‐Rajan , Sun Huey‐Lian , Tang Alex P.
Published: November 2004

Abstract:  Using methodologies developed by Barber and Lyon (1996 and 1997), we examine the long‐run operating performance and stock returns of firms around in‐the‐money calls of convertible preferred stock. Our study intends to be a direct test of the hypothesis that managers call in‐the‐money convertibles when they view a decline in the firms’ performance. We find no evidence that calling firms underperform non‐calling benchmark firms. On the contrary, we find mild evidence that the post‐call operating performance of calling firms is better than a carefully selected group of benchmark firms and call firms’ post‐call stock returns are no worse than benchmark firms.
Child Abuse Prevention in Japan: An Approach to Screening and Intervention with Mothers
Authors: Kayama Mami , Sagami Ayumi , Watanabe Yuka , Senoo Eiichi , Ohara Michiko
Published: November 2004

Abstract  The number of reported child abuse cases is on the increase in Japan. This report describes the testing of an approach to prevention based on a key question: “Do you find any of your children irritating?” The study employed a focus group and a survey. The focus group consisted of 13 mothers who had been severely abusive to their children and were undergoing individual psychotherapy in Tokyo. The survey included 1,538 mothers living with at least one child less than 6 years of age in metropolitan Tokyo. The survey questionnaire asked about mothers' attitudes toward their children and about details and frequency of possibly abusive behavior for their children. All 13 mothers of the focus group reported the experience of feeling their children irritating. They talked extensively and provided many details of their feelings. Of the survey mothers, 3.6% reported feeling their children irritating and showed high scores of abusive behavior. There was a difference in attribution of source of the irritation between these mothers and focus‐group mothers. We conclude that the question on irritability is effective in eliciting mothers' feelings and behavior, especially for providing public health nurses with an opportunity for intervention in child abuse.
Workplace Variables and Their Relationship to Quality Client Outcomes in Home Health
Authors: Kroposki Margaret , Alexander Judith W.
Published: November 2004

Abstract  The purpose of the study was to investigate the relationship of workplace variables and client outcomes, and to propose a model of the fit between the workplace variable dimensions of nursing technology (NT) and organizational structure (OS) to predict client outcomes in home health. The researchers used a correlational, predictive, descriptive design to measure NT, OS, nurses' role clarity, client outcomes, and client satisfaction. A convenience sample consisted of 43 home health sites with 205 nurses and 325 clients completing surveys. Nurses perceived that clients had better outcomes when the three dimensions of NT fit the three dimensions of OS: (1) when clients' conditions were unstable, nurses interacted with peers; (2) when care was complex, nurses consulted with supervisors; and (3) when clients' needs varied, nurses used rules to guide clinical decisions. Findings suggested that nurses' understanding of their roles correlated to OS. Nurse managers in home health care settings can use the model constructed as a result of the research to adjust the dimensions of OS to improve client outcomes.
Bone marrow necrosis in a patient with acute promyelocytic leukemia during re‐induction therapy with arsenic trioxide
Authors: Ishitsuka Kenji , Shirahashi Akihiko , Iwao Yasuhiro , Shishime Mikiko , Takamatsu Yasushi , Takatsuka Yoshifusa , Utsunomiya Atae , Suzumiya Junji , Hara Syuji , Tamura Kazuo
Published: November 2004

Arsenic trioxide (As2O3) therapy at a daily dose of 0.15 mg/kg was given to a 60‐yr‐old Japanese male with refractory acute promyelocytic leukemia. White blood cell (WBC) of 6.6 × 103/μl increased to 134 × 103/μl following the administration of As2O3. Daily hydroxyurea (HU), and 6‐mercaptopurine (6‐MP) were added on days 7 and 19, respectively. Both HU and 6‐MP were discontinued on day 28, when WBC declined to 54.0 × 103/μl. He developed unexplained fever and profound cytopenia requiring multiple blood products transfusions. Bone marrow examination on day 42 revealed massive necrosis. Pharmacokinetics confirmed a mean maximum plasma arsenic concentration (Cpmax) and a half‐life time (t1/2) of 6.9 μm and 3.2 h, respectively, in the therapeutic range. This is the first case of bone marrow necrosis after standard‐dose As2O3 therapy.
1513A/C polymorphism in the P2X7 receptor gene in chronic lymphocytic leukemia: absence of correlation with clinical outcome
Authors: Nückel Holger , Frey Ulrich H. , Dürig Jan , Dührsen Ulrich , Siffert Winfried
Published: November 2004

Purinergic P2X7 receptors are ligand‐gated cation channels expressed on the cells of the immune and hemopoietic system which have been shown to mediate the ATP‐induced apoptotic death of monocytes, macrophages and lymphocytes. A common single nucleotide polymorphism within the P2X7 gene has been described in exon 13 (1513A/C), the gene products encoding fully active and non‐functional proteins. We genotyped the P2X7 1513A/C polymorphism using DNA from 111 patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) and 97 healthy controls using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification followed by Hha1 restriction analysis. We found no significant difference in allele frequency between CLL patients and controls. Time periods from diagnosis to initiation of chemotherapy, a surrogate marker for disease progression, were not different in patients displaying the combined 1513A/C and C/C or the 1513A/A genotype (P = 0.97). Similar results were observed in a subgroup analysis of prognostically more favorable CD38‐negative and ZAP‐70‐negative CLL patients. In conclusion, our data do not support a role of the P2X7 genotype as a prognostic marker in B‐cell CLL.
Tailored therapy of adult acute leukaemia in Jehovah's Witnesses: unjustified reluctance to treat
Authors: Laszlo Daniele , Agazzi Alberto , Goldhirsch Aron , Cinieri Saverio , Bertolini Francesco , Rabascio Cristina , Pruneri Giancarlo , Calabrese Liliana , Cocquio Angela , Martinelli Giovanni
Published: November 2004

Treatment of acute leukaemia in adult Jehovah's Witnesses (JW) is challenging because of ‘a priori’ refusal of most physicians to apply diagnostic and therapeutic procedures to haematological abnormalities resembling acute leukaemia. Rejection of blood transfusions by individuals of this faith is usually blamed to justify this attitude, thus leading to severe personal, medical and psychological distress related to the lack of care. We therefore intended to verify whether a standard (tailored) chemotherapy, without the use of prophylactic blood product transfusions, could be applied during treatment of acute leukaemia under such circumstances. Eleven consecutive JW adult patients with acute leukaemia, all of whom had been denied care in other institutions, were treated at the European Institute of Oncology (EIO) in Milan, Italy. Five had acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL) (one bcr/abl positive), six had acute myeloid leukaemia (AML) with immunophenotype and/or cytogenetic intermediate‐high risk features, except one patient with acute promyelocytic leukaemia (APML). Standard induction chemotherapy [cytosine arabinoside (ARA‐C) and daunorubicin (DNR) for AML, vincristine (VCR), DNR and prednisone (PDN) for ALL, all‐trans retinoic acid (ATRA) and DNR for APML] with the antracycline dose of at least 30 mg/sqm were used. All patients experienced severe anaemia after induction chemotherapy despite erythropoietin. Median haemoglobin nadir for patients with ALL and AML was 4.5 g/dL (range 1.3–6.9) and 5.1 g/dL (range 2.6–6.8), respectively. Median platelet nadir counts for all patients was 14.5 × 109)/L (range 1–24). One patient died during induction probably due to haemorrhage. Four of five patients with ALL achieved a complete remission (CR) (including the bcr/abl case) while among patients with AML only the one with APML achieved CR. Three patients (APML = 1 and ALL = 2) are still alive and disease‐free. This small series of adult patients with leukaemia illustrates difficulties in treating patients who are practising JW, yet nevertheless provides a significant argument against the prejudicial decision leading to evasion of treatment in these patients.
Cracking the Incremental Paradigm of Japanese Creativity
Authors: Proctor Tony , Tan Kim Hua , Fuse Kensuke
Published: November 2004

This paper points out the differences between incremental and paradigm shift approaches to creativity in management that exists between Japanese and Western schools of thought. A number of examples are used to illustrate how a systematic incremental process that places emphasis on continuous improvement is key to Japanese creativity in management. A framework that captures the cornerstones of Japanese creativity is outlined. The paper concludes by discussing the contribution of this research and outlines a plan for further work.
Profiling Technological Competencies of Companies: A Case Study Based on the Theory of Inventive Problem Solving
Authors: Moehrle Martin G. , Lessing Hagen
Published: November 2004

The Theory of Inventive Problem Solving (Russian acronym: TRIZ) provides several new ways for finding creative problem solutions. In addition to TRIZ as it is used for generating inventions, some of its instruments can be applied for strategic management support. In combination with patent databases, TRIZ can be used for profiling technological competencies of inventors and companies to support strategic decisions. This article demonstrates profiling of technological competencies, using a complex case study of a leading German company. In this case study a five‐step process, developed by the main author, has been applied. After having analysed patents and patent applications of three major companies in the field of floor‐cleaning aids, three characteristic profiles have been identified. This led to important activities in the area of R&D of the company doing the analysis, as well as to decisions of strategic relevance.
Cultural Diversity in Entrepreneurial Teams: Findings of New Ventures in Germany
Authors: Bouncken Ricarda B.
Published: November 2004

This paper explores how entrepreneurs from different national cultures deal with cultural diversity of their entrepreneurial teams. The explorative research looks at six case studies in different stages of the venture process. The paper delivers insights from early to later phases of start‐ups. From the case‐study research and theoretic considerations the paper develops different propositions. Core findings are: first, in cross‐cultural teams monochronic/low‐context/high‐space entrepreneurs strongly structure tasks. Second, polychronic/high‐context/low‐space founders tend to supply external contacts to the diverse team. Third, polychronic/high‐context/low‐space founders have a propensity to stimulate communication procedures. Fourth, enhanced communication in cross‐cultural teams seems to be related to creativity. At last, monochronic/low‐context/high‐space founders tend to deny positive effects from cultural diversity.
Ideas in the Workplace: A New Approach Towards Organizing the Fuzzy Front End of the Innovation Process
Authors: Boeddrich Heinz‐Juergen
Published: November 2004

This article pinpoints requirements for organizing the fuzzy front end of the innovation process. The author derived the conditions for computer‐aided idea management from benchmarking the fuzzy front ends of several German and European companies and proposes differentiating between general and company‐specific requirements for organizing the fuzzy front end. It is suggested that structuring the fuzzy front end involves low financial investment but highly sensitive and transparent leadership. Using specific properties of ideas in the workplace as springboards, considerations on further new requirements for successful idea management are developed. Placing a particular emphasis on the interface between the idea owner and the idea‐adoption system, an ‘idea types’ model is developed, which defines four different extreme types of employees and their inclinations to solve problems. An extended set of requirements for managing ideas in the workplace as a useful instrument in creation and implementation of idea‐pipelines in companies and in checking software programmes for idea management or the early stages of new product development programmes is presented.
Effects of vacuum‐assisted closure therapy on inguinal wound edge microvascular blood flow
Authors: Wackenfors Angelica , Sjögren Johan , Gustafsson Ronny , Algotsson Lars , Ingemansson Richard , Malmsjö Malin
Published: November 2004

Vacuum‐assisted closure (VAC) therapy has been shown to facilitate wound healing. Data on the mechanisms are scarce, although beneficial effects on blood flow and granulation tissue formation have been presented. In the current study, laser Doppler was used to measure microvascular blood flow to an inguinal wound in pigs during VAC therapy (− 50 to − 200 mmHg), including consideration of the different tissue types and the distance from the wound edge. VAC treatment induced an increase in microvascular blood flow a few centimeters from the wound edge. The increase in blood flow occurred closer to the wound edge in muscular as compared to subcutaneous tissue (1.5 cm and 3 cm, at − 75 mmHg). In the immediate proximity to the wound edge, blood flow was decreased. This hypoperfused zone was increased with decreasing pressure and was especially prominent in subcutaneous as compared to muscular tissue (0–1.9 cm vs. 0–1.0 cm, at − 100 mmHg). When VAC therapy was terminated, blood flow increased multifold, which may be due to reactive hyperemia. In conclusion, VAC therapy affects microvascular blood flow to the wound edge and may thereby promote wound healing. A low negative pressure during treatment may be beneficial, especially in soft tissue, to minimize possible ischemic effects. Intermittent VAC therapy may further increase blood flow.
Direct effects of interleukin‐6 on liver progenitor oval cells in culture
Authors: Matthews Vance B. , Klinken Elizabeth , Yeoh George C.T.
Published: November 2004

Following acute injury, liver is usually regenerated from hepatocytes by a process that is dependent on interleukin (IL)‐6. If this pathway is impaired, restoration of the liver mass and ultimately the survival of the animal are dependent on recruitment of cells from a precursor cell population, either a stem cell or an oval cell. Importantly, oval cells are also implicated in tumorigenesis. A carcinogenic choline‐deficient ethionine supplemented (CDE) diet is capable of inducing substantial numbers of oval cells that we can isolate and utilize to identify cytokines, which affect oval cell proliferation and differentiation. Currently, a putative role of IL‐6 in oval cell biology is suggested by the elevation of IL‐6 in liver and serum of mice treated with a CDE diet and knockout mouse studies. Also, when IL‐6 is injected into the peritoneal cavity of mice on the CDE diet, oval cell numbers are increased compared to mice on the CDE diet alone. We investigated the role of human IL‐6 on p53 null immortalized murine oval cell lines (PIL), finding that they express transcripts for the IL‐6 receptor and gp130, STAT‐3 is phosphorylated upon IL‐6 stimulation, IL‐6 induces IL‐6 production, and proliferation is induced by IL‐6. In addition, we show that mouse primary oval cells also express IL‐6 receptor and gp130 mRNA. These findings suggest that IL‐6 directly stimulates oval cells and an autocrine mechanism may sustain oval cell proliferation.