bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Shift from toll‐like receptor 2 (TLR‐2) toward TLR‐4 dependency in the erosive stage of chronic streptococcal cell wall arthritis coincident with TLR‐4–mediated interleukin‐17 production
Authors: Abdollahi‐Roodsaz Shahla , Joosten Leo A. B. , Helsen Monique M. , Walgreen Birgitte , van Lent Peter L. , van den Bersselaar Liduine A. , Koenders Marije I. , van den Berg Wim B.
Published: November 2008

Objective

Toll‐like receptors (TLRs) may activate innate and adaptive immune responses in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) through recognition of microbial as well as endogenous ligands that have repeatedly been found in arthritic joints. The objective of this study was to investigate the involvement of TLR‐2 and TLR‐4 in the development of chronic destructive streptococcal cell wall (SCW)–induced arthritis, in which interleukin‐1 (IL‐1)/IL‐17–dependent T cell–driven pathologic changes replace the macrophage‐driven acute phase.

Methods

Chronic SCW arthritis was induced by 4 repeated intraarticular injections of SCW fragments in wild‐type, TLR‐2−/−, and TLR‐4−/− mice. Clinical, histopathologic, and immunologic parameters of arthritis were evaluated.

Results

The TLR‐2 dependency of joint swelling during the acute phase was shifted to TLR‐4 dependency during the chronic phase. Persistent joint inflammation in the latter phase of the model was significantly suppressed in TLR‐4−/− mice. In the chronic phase, TLR‐4 actively contributed to matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)–mediated cartilage destruction and to osteoclast formation, since the expression of the MMP‐specific aggrecan neoepitope VDIPEN and the osteoclast marker cathepsin K was significantly reduced in TLR‐4−/− mice. Furthermore, TLR‐4−/− mice expressed less IL‐1β, tumor necrosis factor α, IL‐6, and IL‐23, cytokines that are implicated in IL‐17 production. Accordingly, SCW‐specific IL‐17 production was found to be dependent on TLR‐4 activation, since T cells from arthritic TLR‐4−/− mice produced markedly less IL‐17 upon SCW stimulation, whereas interferon‐γ production remained unaffected.

Conclusion

These data indicate the involvement of TLR‐4 in the chronicity and erosive character of arthritis coincident with the antigen‐specific IL‐17 response. The high position of TLR‐4 in the hierarchy of erosive arthritis provides an interesting therapeutic target for RA.
Investigation of association of the IL12B and IL23R genes with psoriatic arthritis
Authors: Filer Charlotte , Ho Pauline , Smith Rhodri L. , Griffiths Christopher , Young Helen S. , Worthington Jane , Bruce Ian N. , Barton Anne
Published: November 2008

Objective

Recent reports have confirmed association of single‐nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) mapping to the interleukin‐23 receptor (IL‐23R) and IL‐12β genes with psoriasis susceptibility. The aim of this study was to determine whether these variants are also associated with susceptibility to psoriatic arthritis (PsA).

Methods

Two IL23R SNPs (rs7530511 and rs11209026) and 2 IL12B SNPs (rs3212227 and rs6887695) were genotyped in DNA samples from 520 white patients with PsA and 2,260 control subjects, all of whom resided in the UK. For SNP rs3212227, data on a larger group of controls (n = 4,681) were publicly available; this information was used in the analysis. Genotype counts were compared between patients with PsA and population controls, using the trend test.

Results

A haplotype comprising carriage of the common variants of both IL23R SNPs was associated with PsA susceptibility (adjusted P = 0.013 [1,000 permutations]). Both IL12B SNPs were independently associated with PsA susceptibility, and this association was strongest under a dominant model, with homozygosity for the common allele being more frequent in patients with PsA than in control subjects: for rs3212227, the odds ratio (OR) for carriage of AA versus other genotypes was 1.43 (95% confidence interval [95% CI] 1.17–1.76); for rs6887695, the OR for carriage of GG versus other genotypes was 1.43 (95% CI 1.18–1.74).

Conclusion

Variation within IL23R and IL12B is associated with susceptibility to both psoriasis and PsA. The effect sizes observed in patients with PsA appear to be smaller than those previously reported in patients with psoriasis, suggesting that both loci are primarily associated with psoriasis susceptibility. However, this does support the idea that the genetic etiology of the psoriasis present in patients with PsA has susceptibility loci in common with those observed in patients with uncomplicated psoriasis.
Association of three systemic lupus erythematosus susceptibility factors, PD‐1.3A, C4AQ0, and low levels of mannan‐binding lectin, with autoimmune manifestations in icelandic multicase systemic lupus erythematosus families
Authors: Kristjansdottir Helga , Saevarsdottir Saedis , Gröndal Gerdur , Alarcón‐Riquelme Marta E. , Erlendsson Kristjan , Valdimarsson Helgi , Steinsson Kristjan
Published: November 2008

Objective

To study autoimmune diseases and autoantibodies in Icelandic multicase systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) families and to determine the association of 3 SLE susceptibility factors, PD‐1.3A, C4AQ0, and low levels of mannan‐binding lectin (MBL), with autoimmune disease in this population.

Methods

Eight SLE multicase families were studied, comprising a total of 124 family members (23 patients with SLE and 101 relatives). The diagnosis of an autoimmune disease was established and autoantibodies were measured in each family. In addition, PD‐1.3A alleles were genotyped, and C4AQ0 allotypes were established by electrophoresis and haplotype analysis. Low levels of MBL were determined using enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay and variant‐allele genotyping.

Results

In the SLE multicase families there was a high frequency of other autoimmune diseases (32.2%) and a high frequency of autoantibodies (53.2%). Of all family members, 59.7% were determined to have SLE, other autoimmune diseases, antinuclear antibodies, and/or other autoantibodies. The families showed genetic heterogeneity for PD‐1.3A, C4AQ0, and low MBL levels; the frequency of each factor ranged from 0% to 85%. The frequencies of PD‐1.3A and C4AQ0 were significantly increased in patients with SLE, relatives with other autoimmune diseases, and non–autoimmune disease relatives compared with controls. In the 7 families whose members had low levels of MBL, this factor was significantly associated with SLE, but the frequency of low MBL was decreased in relatives with other autoimmune diseases as compared with non–autoimmune disease relatives and controls. There were indications of an additive effect, and 91% of patients with SLE, 78% of relatives with other autoimmune diseases, and 75% of non–autoimmune disease relatives carried at least 1 of the 3 factors.

Conclusion

These results demonstrate a high frequency of autoimmune diseases and autoantibodies in SLE multicase families. PD‐1.3A and C4AQ0 are part of a predisposing genetic background. Other genetic and/or environmental factors are necessary for disease expression, demonstrated by a high frequency of PD‐1.3A and C4AQ0 in non–autoimmune disease relatives. Low MBL levels may be one such contributing factor. The results of this study provide an example of epistatic genetic effects and overlapping genetics in autoimmune diseases.
S100A12 is a novel molecular marker differentiating systemic‐onset juvenile idiopathic arthritis from other causes of fever of unknown origin
Authors: Wittkowski Helmut , Frosch Michael , Wulffraat Nico , Goldbach‐Mansky Raphaela , Kallinich Tilmann , Kuemmerle‐Deschner Jasmin , Frühwald Michael C. , Dassmann Sandra , Pham Tuyet‐Hang , Roth Johannes , Foell Dirk
Published: November 2008

Objective

Fever of unknown origin (FUO) in children presents a diagnostic challenge. The differential diagnosis includes systemic‐onset juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA), an autoinflammatory syndrome associated with activation of phagocytic cells that, at presentation, is difficult to differentiate from severe systemic infections. The aim of this study was to investigate whether serum concentrations of the phagocytic proinflammatory protein S100A12 may help in deciding whether to treat patients with FUO with antibiotics or immunosuppressive agents.

Methods

Serum samples were obtained from 45 healthy control subjects and from 240 patients (60 with systemic‐onset JIA, 17 with familial Mediterranean fever [FMF], 18 with neonatal‐onset multisystem inflammatory disease [NOMID], 17 with Muckle‐Wells syndrome [MWS], 40 with acute lymphoblastic leukemia [ALL], 5 with acute myeloblastic leukemia [AML], and 83 with systemic infections). All samples were collected at the time of presentation, before the initiation of any treatment, and concentrations of S100A12 were determined by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay.

Results

The mean ± 95% confidence interval serum levels of S100A12 were as follows: in patients with JIA, 7,190 ± 2,690 ng/ml; in patients with FMF, 6,720 ± 4,960 ng/ml; in patients with NOMID, 720 ± 450 ng/ml; in patients with MWS, 150 ± 60 ng/ml; in patients with infections, 470 ± 160 ng/ml; in patients with ALL, 130 ± 80 ng/ml; in patients with AML, 45 ± 60 ng/ml; in healthy control subjects, 50 ± 10 ng/ml. The sensitivity and specificity of S100A12 to distinguish between systemic‐onset JIA and infections were 66% and 94%, respectively.

Conclusion

S100A12, a marker of granulocyte activation, is highly overexpressed in patients with systemic‐onset JIA or FMF, which may point to as‐yet unknown common inflammatory mechanisms in these diseases. The measurement of S100A12 serum levels may provide a valuable diagnostic tool in the evaluation of FUO.
Population‐based prevalence study of Behçet's disease: Differences by ethnic origin and low variation by age at immigration
Authors: Mahr Alfred , Belarbi Linda , Wechsler Bertrand , Jeanneret Dominique , Dhote Robin , Fain Olivier , Lhote François , Ramanoelina Jacky , Coste Joël , Guillevin Loïc
Published: November 2008

Objective

To estimate the prevalence of Behçet's disease (BD) in a multiethnic population living in France, with particular focus on disease risk among immigrants.

Methods

The study was conducted in a county in the Paris metropolitan area that is home to 1,094,412 adults (ages ≥15 years), of whom 26% are of non‐European ancestry. Patients with BD living in this area during 2003 were identified using 3 sources (hospitals, community physicians, and the National Health Insurance database), and diagnoses were verified using the International Study Group criteria. Standardized, year‐2003 prevalence rates were computed for the overall population and for each ethnic group. Stratified prevalence rates according to age at immigration to France were calculated to investigate the relationship between age at immigration and BD risk.

Results

Seventy‐nine subjects fulfilled our search criteria. The overall prevalence per 100,000 adults was 7.1 (95% confidence interval [95% CI] 3.5–14.4), and the prevalence for populations of European, North African, and Asian ancestry was 2.4 (95% CI 0.6–7.2), 34.6 (95% CI 24.4–47.5), and 17.5 (95% CI 10.7–27.2), respectively. Within the migrant population of either North African or Asian ancestry, BD prevalences were similar for residents born in France, residents <15 years old at immigration, and residents ≥15 years old at immigration.

Conclusion

Our findings indicate that the prevalence of BD among immigrants of North African or Asian ancestry is significantly higher than that in the European‐origin population, and comparable with rates reported from North Africa and Asia. Moreover, our results suggest that BD risk is not related to age at immigration. These findings support the hypothesis that BD has a primarily hereditary basis.
Cholesterol but not association with detergent resistant membranes is necessary for the transport function of MRP2/ABCC2
Authors: Ito Kousei , Hoekstra Dick , van IJzendoorn Sven C.D.
Published: November 2008

MRP2(/ABCC2) excretes amphiphilic organic anions into bile, and associates with detergent‐resistant bile canalicular membrane domains (DRM). Here, we have evaluated sensitivities of MRP2 transport function and DRM association by titrating the cellular cholesterol content. We demonstrate that the role of cholesterol in the partitioning of MRP2 to DRM can be separated from the role of cholesterol in the function of MRP2, such that (i) cholesterol is not necessary for the polarized distribution of MRP2 at the canalicular membrane, (ii) partitioning into DRM is not required for MRP2 function, yet (iii) the presence of cholesterol is necessary for transport activity.
Testicular aging involves mitochondrial dysfunction as well as an increase in UCP2 levels and proton leak
Authors: Amaral Sandra , Mota Paula , Rodrigues Ana Sofia , Martins Luís , Oliveira Paulo J. , Ramalho-Santos João
Published: November 2008

To address the possibility that mitochondria are involved in the age‐related loss of testicular function, we characterized mitochondrial bioenergetics in rat testis. A peak of mitochondrial functionality was detected in adult animals, with a decrease in both young and older animals. In the latter group a decrease in mitochondrial function was matched with an increase in proton leak and expression and activity of uncoupling protein 2 (UCP2), suggesting that proton leak may be involved in managing age‐dependent mitochondrial dysfunction.
Nanophase segregation and water dynamics in hydrated Nafion: Molecular modeling and experimental validation
Authors: Malek Kourosh , Eikerling Michael , Wang Qianpu , Liu Zhongsheng , Otsuka Shoko , Akizuki Ken , Abe Mitsutaka
Published: November 2008

Reported results of coarse-grained molecular dynamics simulations rationalize the effect of water on the phase-segregated morphology of Nafion ionomers. We analyzed density maps and radial distribution functions and correlated them with domain structures, distributions of protogenic side chains, and water transport properties. The mesoscopic structures exhibit spongelike morphologies. Hydrophilic domains of water, protons, and anionic side chains form a random three-dimensional network, which is embedded in a matrix of hydrophobic backbone aggregates. Sizes of hydrophilic domains increase from 1 to 3 nm upon water uptake. At low water content, hydrophilic domains are roughly spherical and poorly connected. At higher water content, they convert into elongated cylindrical shapes with high connectivity. Further structural analysis provides a reasonable estimate of the percolation threshold. Radial distribution functions from coarse-grained and atomistic molecular dynamics models exhibit a good agreement. Water cluster size distributions from coarse-grained molecular dynamics and dissipative particle dynamics are consistent with small angle x-ray scattering data. Moreover, we calculated the water diffusivity by molecular dynamics methods and corroborated the results by comparison with pulsed field gradient NMR.
On the structure of Clifford quantum cellular automata
Authors: Schlingemann Dirk-M. , Vogts Holger , Werner Reinhard F.
Published: November 2008

We study reversible quantum cellular automata with the restriction that these are also Clifford operations. This means that tensor products of Pauli operators (or discrete Weyl operators) are mapped to tensor products of Pauli operators. Therefore Clifford quantum cellular automata are induced by symplectic cellular automata in phase space. We characterize these symplectic cellular automata and find that all possible local rules must be, up to some global shift, reflection invariant with respect to the origin. In the one-dimensional (1D) case we also find that every uniquely determined and translationally invariant stabilizer state can be prepared from a product state by a single Clifford cellular automaton time step, thereby characterizing this class of stabilizer states, and we show that all 1D Clifford quantum cellular automata are generated by a few elementary operations. We also show that the correspondence between translationally invariant stabilizer states and translationally invariant Clifford operations holds for periodic boundary conditions.
Critical behavior on approaching a special critical point in a complex fluid
Authors: Pradeep U. K.
Published: November 2008

The critical behavior of osmotic susceptibility is investigated in the re-entrant complex mixture 1-propanol (P)+water (W)+potassium chloride (KCl) through light-scattering measurements. The measurements are performed on approaching a special critical point [i.e., the double critical point (DCP)] in this mixture, along the line of upper critical solution temperatures (TU’s), by varying t from the high temperature one-phase region. The light-scattering data analysis emphasizes the need for corrections to the asymptotic Ising behavior and yields very large magnitudes for the correction-to-scaling amplitudes A1 and A2, with the first-correction amplitude A1 being negative, signifying a nonmonotonic crossover behavior of the susceptibility exponent in this mixture. For the TU closest to the DCP, the effective susceptibility exponent γeff displays a nonmonotonic crossover from its nearly doubled three dimensional (3D)-Ising value toward its nearly double mean-field value with an increase in t. While for that far away from the DCP, it displays a nonmonotonic crossover from its single-limit Ising value toward a value slightly lower than its mean-field value of 1 with an increase in t. This feature of the effective susceptibility exponent is interpreted in terms of the possibility of a nonmonotonic crossover to the mean-field value from lower values in the nonasymptotic high t region. The renormalized Ising regime extends over a larger t range for the sample (or TU) closest to the DCP when compared to that far away from it. The in-between TU’s display a trend toward shrinkage in the renormalized Ising regime as TU shifts away from the DCP. Nevertheless, the crossover to the mean-field behavior is completed only beyond t>10−2 for the TU’s studied. The observed crossover behavior is attributed to the presence of strong ion-induced clustering in this mixture, as revealed by various structure probing techniques, while the observed unique trend in the crossover behavior is discussed in terms of the varying influence of the DCP on the critical behavior along the TU line. The crossover behavior for the TU’s is pronounced and more sharp compared to the TL’s (lower critical solution temperatures) [U. K. Pradeep, J. Chem. Phys. 129, 134506 (2008)] in this mixture, although there exists no difference in the growth of the mesoscale clusters in the lower and upper one-phase regions in this mixture. Our observations suggest the need to look at the crossover behavior probably from two perspectives, namely, the dielectric effect and the clustering effect. The effective susceptibility exponent as a function of the field variable tUL, instead of the conventional variable t, displays a sharp nonmonotonic crossover from its asymptotic 3D-Ising value (∼1.24) toward a value slightly lower than its nonasymptotic mean-field value of 1, as that observed in the t analysis for the TU far away from the influence of the DCP.
X-ray diffraction and optical properties of a noncentrosymmetric borate CaBiGaB2O7
Authors: Reshak A. H. , Chen Xuean , Auluck S. , Kityk I. V.
Published: November 2008

Single crystals of the noncentrosymmetric borate CaBiGaB2O7 were synthesized by conventional solid state reaction. The purity of the crystal was checked by x-ray powder diffraction. The optical properties were measured by analyzing the diffuse reflectance data obtained with a Shimadzu UV-3101PC double-beam, double-monochromator spectrophotometer. We find a steep absorption edge confirming its semiconducting nature. The optical band gap obtained by extrapolation of a linearlike absorption edge was roughly 2.9 eV consistent with the observed pale yellow color of the sample. Theoretical calculations based on the structural model built from our measured atomic parameters have been performed using the all-electron full potential linearized augmented plane wave method. The generalized gradient approximation (GGA) of the exchange correlation potential as given by Engel–Vosko GGA is used. The frequency-dependent complex dielectric function was calculated and the origin of some of the spectral peaks is discussed. The linear optical properties show strong uniaxial anisotropy and birefringence that favors large second order susceptibility. Our calculations show that the complex second order nonlinear optical susceptibility tensor χ322(2)(ω) is the dominant component having the largest total Re χ322(2)(0) value of about 1.8 pm/V.
Phase transition hysteresis and anomalous Curie–Weiss behavior of ferroelectric tetragonal tungsten bronzes Ba2RETi2Nb3O15:RE=Nd,Sm
Authors: Prades Marta , Beltrán Héctor , Masó Nahum , Cordoncillo Eloisa , West Anthony R.
Published: November 2008

The ferroelectric tetragonal tungsten bronze (TTB) phases, Ba2RETi2Nb3O15:RE=Nd,Sm, were prepared by low temperature solvothermal synthesis. The permittivity versus temperature data of sintered ceramics show two unusual features: first, a hysteresis of 50–100 °C between values of the Curie temperature Tc on heat-cool cycles and second: a huge depression in the Curie–Weiss temperature T0. Both effects are attributed to the complex nature of their TTB-related crystal structures with different superstructures above and below Tc and the difficulty in nucleating ferroelectric domains on cooling through Tc. Several factors may contribute to the latter difficulty: first, the structures contain two sets of crystallographic sites for the “active” Ti, Nb ions; second, the distribution of Ti and Nb over these two sets of sites is not random but partially ordered; and third, below Tc a weak commensurate superstructure perpendicular to the polar c̱ axis is present, but above Tc a weak incommensurate superstructure in a similar orientation is present. Hence the formation of the ferroelectric structure on cooling requires both nucleation of polar domains involving two sets of cation sites and structural change from an incommensurate to a commensurate supercell.
Two-step vapor-crystal nucleation close below triple point
Authors: van Meel J. A. , Page A. J. , Sear R. P. , Frenkel D.
Published: November 2008

We present the results of Monte Carlo simulations of crystal nucleation from the vapor phase. We studied the Lennard–Jones system at conditions close to, but below, the triple point. This system is expected to show surface melting. The nucleation pathway that we observe consists of two distinct steps. In the first step, a liquid droplet nucleates from the vapor. Its nucleation rate depends strongly on the vapor supersaturation. In the second step, the final crystal phase nucleates in the liquid droplet, provided that this liquid droplet exceeds a minimum size. Our simulations show that within a liquid droplet the crystal nucleation rate does not depend on the vapor supersaturation. In a recent independent study Chen et al. [J. Phys. Chem. B 112, 4069 (2008)] investigated the same phenomenon using umbrella sampling to compute free energy barriers and hence nucleation rates. We use a different numerical approach where we focus on computing the nucleation rates directly using forward-flux sampling. Our results agree with the findings of Chen et al. and both methods observe two-step nucleation. This finding indicates that this nucleation process can be described with a quasiequilibrium theory. Due to different cutoffs for the interaction potential the results cannot be compared quantitatively.
Giant magnetoelectric effect in mechanically clamped heterostructures of magnetostrictive alloy and piezoelectric crystal-alloy cymbal
Authors: Wang Yaojin , Or Siu Wing , Chan Helen Lai Wa , Zhao Xiangyong , Luo Haosu
Published: November 2008

We experimentally and theoretically report a giant magnetoelectric (ME) effect in a heterostructure made by clamping a bar-shaped magnetostrictive Tb0.3Dy0.7Fe1.92 (Terfenol-D) alloy actuator and a cymbal-type piezoelectric 0.7Pb(Mg1/3Nb2/3)O3–0.3PbTiO3(PMN–PT) (PMN-PT) single crystal-brass alloy transducer in a brass alloy frame. The reported ME effect originates from the stress-mediated product of the magnetostrictive effect in the Terfenol-D bar actuator and the mechanically transformed/amplified piezoelectric effect in the PMN PT-brass cymbal transducer under mechanically clamped conditions. The heterostructure exhibits a giant ME voltage coefficient (αV) of 440mV∕Oe at an optimal magnetic bias field of 400Oe besides showing good linearity between the induced ME voltage and the applied ac magnetic field in the field range of 10−3–10Oe. This αV is larger than that of conventional Terfenol-D/PMN-PT laminated composites.
Dynamic bias stress current instability caused by charge trapping and detrapping in pentacene thin film transistors
Authors: Miyadera T. , Minari T. , Wang S. D. , Tsukagoshi K.
Published: November 2008

The current instability in pentacene organic thin film transistors (OTFTs) under dynamic bias stress was investigated. Current instability is strongly influenced by pulse duty ratio and pulse on-period and off-period voltages, but is independent of pulse frequency. A stable on-current without current instability was achieved by controlling the pulse duty ratio and pulse voltage. On the basis of the experimental results, a reversible transition model of dynamic charge trapping and detrapping in pentacene OTFTs is proposed, and trapping and detrapping time constants were estimated.
High quantum efficiency back-illuminated GaN avalanche photodiodes
Authors: Bayram C. , Pau J. L. , McClintock R. , Razeghi M. , Ulmer M. P. , Silversmith D.
Published: November 2008

Back-illuminated avalanche photodiodes (APDs) composed of heterojunctions of either p-GaN/i-GaN/n-AlGaN or p-GaN/i-GaN/n-GaN/n-AlGaN were fabricated on AlN templates. At low voltage, an external quantum efficiency of 57% at 352 nm with a bandpass response was achieved by using AlGaN in the n-layer. Dependency of gain and leakage current on mesa area for these heterojunction APDs were studied. Back-illumination via different wavelength sources was used to demonstrate the advantages of hole-initiated multiplication in GaN APDs.
Reversible charge injection in antiferroelectric thin films
Authors: Jiang A. Q. , Tang T. A. , Corkovic S. , Zhang Q.
Published: November 2008

High-energy storage antiferroelectric capacitors operated in a high speed require the quick release of stored charges after the removal of the electrical field accompanying ferroelectric-to-antiferroelectric phase transition. However, the phase-transition time can vary from a few nanoseconds to milliseconds due to the reversible charge injection into the film to temporally stabilize the high-field ferroelectric phase. The consequent theoretical modeling discloses the nearly Ohmic contact of an antiferroelectric Au/Cr/Pb(Zr0.95Ti0.05)O3/Pt thin-film capacitor for the charge injection unlike the Schottky emission of a typical ferroelectric capacitor.
P
olar
M
apper
: a computational tool for integrated visualization of protein interaction networks and mRNA expression data
Authors: Gonçalves Joana P. , Grãos Mário , Valente André X.C.N.
Published: November 2008

P
olar
M
apper
is a computational application for exposing the architecture of protein interaction networks. It facilitates the system-level analysis of mRNA expression data in the context of the underlying protein interaction network. Preliminary analysis of a human protein interaction network and comparison of the yeast oxidative stress and heat shock gene expression responses are addressed as case studies.
gratterpalm uses HR as a strategic tool for growth
Authors: Saunders Helen
Published: November 2008

Purpose

The aim of this case study is to show how HR can help an organization meet its business goals. Investing strategically in HR can result in cost savings, enhanced productivity and improved customer service.

Design/methodology/approach

The case study feature follows the development of HR at a retail marketing agency in the UK and its five‐year journey from being non‐existent to becoming a fully functioning department with a strategic positioning on the board of directors.

Findings

With a team of 70 people, changing employee legislation and large corporate accounts, five years ago the organization was at risk as it had no HR function in place. Also, operating in the creative industry where high employee turnover rates, burnout and job dissatisfaction are common issues, it was missing out on using its human resources and strong culture to gain a competitive advantage and facilitate growth.

Originality/value

Putting in place an HR strategy requires buy‐in from the senior management team, and introducing HR for the first time is made easier by involving employees and management early in the process. In this case, an employee survey, supported by a strong communications program, proved to be a key tool in highlighting the issues that needed to be addressed by the new HR function and in providing an ongoing tool for continuous improvement and engagement with employees. Involving clients and taking into account the needs of external stakeholders further boosts the effectiveness of people policies.
Harmony and participation in Arab and Western teams
Authors: Wright Norman S. , Bennett Hadyn
Published: November 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to make a cross‐cultural comparison of team harmony and participation of a collectivistic Middle Eastern sample of women and an individualistic Anglo sample of women.

Design/methodology/approach

Two independent female samples are compared – Anglos and Arabs. Respondents completed a self‐report survey regarding their perceptions of recent team experiences as well as their own participation within those teams.

Findings

The findings revealed greater sensitivity to inter‐member conflict on the part of the Arabic sample, coupled with increased incidence of behaviors to promote team harmony through the suppression of individual opinions and ideas.

Research limitations/implications

Further research should be conducted to differentiate the interaction between role and gender. From a practical standpoint, quasi‐experimental research on interventions to reduce the participation problem would be important.

Practical implications

Team performance and retention of Emirati employees within the United Arab Emirates context can be enhanced to the extent that managers understand the perceptions and participation of local employees. The findings of the current study aid managers in understanding the key role of team harmony sensitivity among Emiratis and its subsequent impact on their participation in team processes.

Originality/value

The paper addresses a significant issue, team member participation, in an understudied but increasingly relevant setting, Middle Eastern teams.
Using an ethnographic case study approach to identify socio‐cultural discourse
Authors: Gallant Monica
Published: November 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to describe a research methodology that was used to identify dominant socio‐cultural discourse using a feminist post‐structural lens.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on a literature‐based study focusing on research methodology and theoretical frameworks, the conduct of an ethnographic case study is described in detail. A discussion of the reporting and analysis of the data is also included.

Findings

The study indicates that using an ethnographic case study approach is a very effective tool for identifying dominant socio‐cultural discourses. This in turn can lead to greater emancipation for women through discourse analysis and re‐positioning.

Research limitations/implications

This paper presents a focused literature study and contains a description of an effective research methodology for specific purposes. It may be of use to others interested in conducting similar types of research.

Practical implications

The study indicates that using unstructured interviews and a narrative reporting technique is a valuable way to collect data about socio‐cultural discourses in an Arabic context. The importance of the position, power, and reflexivity of the interviewer is also explored. In addition, the study suggests that successful feminist movements should be gradual and should take into account societal discourses to allow women to gain emancipatory action through re‐positioning themselves within their societal discourses.

Originality/value

The paper is one of the few attempting to describe an ethnographic case study approach with a feminist, post‐structuralist view in an Arab context.
Operations research/management science in the United Arab Emirates
Authors: Abdulrahman Yousef Darwish
Published: November 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present results of a survey that investigates levels of awareness and usage of Operations Research (OR)/Management Science (MS) in industrial and service organizations in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

Design/methodology/approach

A sample of 450 individuals at different management levels were co‐opted and descriptive statistical analyses were employed.

Findings

Results reveal that the majority of the respondents are aware of OR/MS and use it to some extent. Results also showed that the most common OR/MS techniques are: decision analysis, cost benefit analysis, computer simulation, financial modeling, and risk analysis. The most common application areas are: project evaluation, sales analysis, manpower planning, accounting procedures, and stock control.

Research limitations/implications

This study like any other study has some limitations. First, the sample size is somewhat small, and therefore this might limit the generalization of the results of this study. Second, this study is confined to medium sized and large organizations and in turn it excluded small organizations. This might also affect the generalization of the results. Finally, this study is confined to certain emirates and in turn it might not provide clear picture of OR/MS awareness and use in the UAE as a whole.

Practical implications

The findings of this study have some implications for both practitioners and researchers. For decision makers (practitioners) they will be aware of the type of problems being solved using OR/MS techniques and type of OR/MS techniques being used to solve those problems. Furthermore, decision makers will be aware of the barriers to the wide use of OR/MS techniques. This will help them identify means of overcoming those barriers. For researchers/academicians, they will be aware of OR/MS techniques which are widely used in the country and consequently, more emphasis will be placed on those techniques.

Originality/value

Due to lack of recent survey type studies in the Arab countries in general and in the UAE in particular, this study is the first which provides a comprehensive picture of the status of OR/MS in the UAE at the present time.
Challenges to ICT implementation in multinationals
Authors: Zaidman Nurit , Schwartz David G. , Te'eni Dov
Published: November 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the challenges to information and communication technologies (ICT) implementation in multinationals. The paper focuses on contextual variables relevant to the understanding of the implementation of ICT in organizations operating in the Middle East, such as organization culture and power relations.

Design/methodology/approach

The study is based on interviews with 31 employees of a multinational company that operates in the Middle East. In addition, 60 days of electronic mail of two senior managers were studied and random samples of messages from the computers of six participants collected. Altogether 200 e‐mail messages, spanning seven months were surveyed.

Findings

It was found that the transplantation of ICT was based on the construction of technology as symbolizing the value of modernity. Although employees did not resist the implementation of ICT tools, several problems related to language and access to data had an impact on their work. Furthermore, the ICT tools implicitly assumed a utilitarian discourse that values computer‐mediated more than face‐to‐face communication, but the organization rejected this aspect of the tools.

Practical implications

We argue that more flexible designs of ICT should take into account the particular discourse system employed in order to achieve a better fit between the ICT tools and the users.

Originality/value

The paper focuses on a neglected area of research, the implementation of ICT tools in culturally diverse organizations and discusses contextual variables relevant to the understanding of the implementation of ICT in organizations such as organization culture and power relations which have not been extensively discussed in the literature.
The common mechanisms of anterior cruciate ligament injuries in judo: a retrospective analysis
Authors: Koshida S , Deguchi T , Miyashita K , Iwai K , Urabe Y
Published: November 2008

Background

Although high prevalence of anterior cruciate ligament injuries (ACL) in judokas has been reported, there has been very little research concerning events preceding the injury.

Objective

To determine the common situations and mechanisms of ACL injury in judo.

Methods

A total of 43 cases of ACL injuries that had occurred during judo competition or practice were investigated, using questionnaires with interviews conducted by a single certified athletic trainer who has 20 years of judo experience to obtain information regarding the situation and mechanism in which the ACL injury occurred.

Results

The number of ACL injuries when the participant's grip style was different from the style of the opponent (ie,kenka-yotsustyle) (28 cases) was significantly greater than when the participant's grip style was the same as that of the opponent (ie,ai-yotsustyle) (15 cases; p<0.001). The number of ACL injuries was significantly higher when the participant was attacked by the opponent than when counterattacked or when attempting the attack (p<0.001). In addition, being attacked withosoto-gariwas revealed as the leading cause of ACL injury incidence among the participants (16.8%).

Conclusions

Grip style may be associated with ACL injury occurrence in judo. In addition, direct contact due to the opponent's attack may be a common mechanism for ACL injuries in judo.
Gait mechanics after ACL reconstruction: implications for the early onset of knee osteoarthritis
Authors: Butler R J , Minick K I , Ferber R , Underwood F
Published: November 2008

Background:

Individuals who sustain a rupture of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) are at an increased risk for developing early-onset knee osteoarthritis (OA). The mechanism behind the early onset of the disease is still unknown. Knee OA progression has been previously examined by calculating the internal knee-abduction moment during gait. However, knee-joint moments have not been examined in individuals after ACL reconstruction as a potential mechanism for disease progression in early knee OA.

Objective:

To determine if individuals who have undergone ACL reconstruction exhibit altered gait mechanics that may be associated with knee OA progression.

Methods:

In total, 17 people who had previously undergone ACL reconstruction were enrolled in the study. A matched control group was recruited for comparison. All participants underwent gait analysis at an intentional walking speed to examine variables previously associated with knee OA progression, primarily the internal peak knee-abduction moment, during gait. One way ANOVAs were performed to examine differences in gait mechanics between the two groups. All joint moments were calculated as internal moments.

Results:

The peak knee-abduction moment was increased by 21% in the ACL compared with the control group (p = 0.04). No other differences were seen in frontal plane knee or hip mechanics.

Conclusion:

It seems that individuals who have undergone ACL reconstruction exhibit an increased peak knee-abduction moment that may establish a potential mechanism of the earlier onset of knee OA in this population.
Food outlet visits, physical activity and body weight: variations by gender and race–ethnicity
Authors: Frank L , Kerr J , Saelens B , Sallis J , Glanz K , Chapman J
Published: November 2008

Purpose:

Recent evidence documents significant associations between community design, physical activity and obesity when adjusting for demographic covariates. Yet it is well understood that energy imbalance and weight gain are also a function of dietary patterns, and perhaps the degree of access to healthy food choices.

Methods:

The current study builds upon the Atlanta-based SMARTRAQ study of over 10 000 respondents and reports an integrated assessment of obesity impacts of physical activity and food outlet visitation. Respondents in the SMARTRAQ survey aged 25–65 provided BMI, self-reported physical activity levels (IPAQ), demographic factors, and where they went for food over a 2 day period.

Results:

The relative effect of physical activity, neighbourhood walkability, and food outlet visitation on BMI differed significantly across gender and ethnicity. BMI in females increased with fast food and decreased with grocery store visitation and physical activity, but not with walkability or walking. BMI in males was not related to where they went for food but decreased with walking and overall physical activity and with walkability. Fast food visitation was associated with increased BMI in white respondents and grocery store visitation with decreased BMI in black respondents. Meeting moderate activity guidelines was associated with lower BMI in both black and white respondents, yet walking was only significant in predicting reduced BMI in white respondents.

Conclusion:

Obesity influences of physical activity, walkability, and where people go for food differ significantly across gender and ethnicity and offer important policy implications and insights for future research.
The Adaptive Brain: Aging and Neurocognitive Scaffolding
Authors: Park Denise C. , Reuter-Lorenz Patricia
Published: November 2008

There are declines with age in speed of processing, working memory, inhibitory function, and long-term memory, as well as decreases in brain structure size and white matter integrity. In the face of these decreases, functional imaging studies have demonstrated, somewhat surprisingly, reliable increases in prefrontal activation. To account for these joint phenomena, we propose the scaffolding theory of aging and cognition (STAC). STAC provides an integrative view of the aging mind, suggesting that pervasive increased frontal activation with age is a marker of an adaptive brain that engages in compensatory scaffolding in response to the challenges posed by declining neural structures and function. Scaffolding is a normal process present across the lifespan that involves use and development of complementary, alternative neural circuits to achieve a particular cognitive goal. Scaffolding is protective of cognitive function in the aging brain, and available evidence suggests that the ability to use this mechanism is strengthened by cognitive engagement, exercise, and low levels of default network engagement.
A Tale of Two Systems: Co-Occurring Mental Health and Substance Abuse Disorders Treatment for Adolescents
Authors: Hawkins Elizabeth H.
Published: November 2008

Co-occurring disorders present serious challenges to traditional mental health and substance abuse treatment systems. Among adolescents in need of behavioral health services, co-occurring disorders are highly prevalent and difficult to treat. Without effective intervention, youth with co-occurring disorders are at increased risk of serious medical and legal problems, incarceration, suicide, school difficulties and dropout, unemployment, and poor interpersonal relationships. In general, current service systems are inadequately prepared to meet this need due to a variety of clinical, administrative, financial, and policy barriers. This article presents an overview of co-occurring disorders among adolescents, highlights general considerations for co-occurring disorders treatment, reviews selected treatment models and outcomes, and discusses recommendations and best practice strategies.
Adolescent Romantic Relationships
Authors: Collins W. Andrew , Welsh Deborah P. , Furman Wyndol
Published: November 2008

In this article, we review theoretical and empirical advances in research on romantic relationships between age 10 and the early twenties. First, we describe key themes in this area of research. Next, we briefly characterize the most influential theoretical formulations and distinctive methodological issues. We then describe research findings regarding pertinent social and developmental processes. We summarize the extensive findings on relationships with parents and peers as a context for romantic relationships. Finally, we characterize the growing evidence that adolescent romantic relationships are significant for individual adjustment and development, and we note promising directions for further research.
Health Psychology: Developing Biologically Plausible Models Linking the Social World and Physical Health
Authors: Miller Gregory , Chen Edith , Cole Steve W.
Published: November 2008

Research over the past several decades has documented psychosocial influences on the development and progression of several major medical illnesses. The field is now increasingly focused on identifying the biological and behavioral mechanisms underlying these effects. This review takes stock of the knowledge accumulated in the biological arena to date and highlights conceptual and methodological approaches that have proven especially productive. It emphasizes the value of a disease-centered approach that “reverse engineers” adverse health outcomes into their specific biological determinants and then identifies psychologically modulated neuroendocrine and immunologic dynamics that modulate those pathological processes at the cellular and molecular levels.
Canada: Public Health Genomics
Authors: Little J. , Potter B. , Allanson J. , Caulfield T. , Carroll J.C. , Wilson B.
Published: November 2008

Canada has a diverse population of 32 million people and a universal, publicly funded health care system provided through provincial and territorial health insurance plans. Public health activities are resourced at provincial/territorial level with strategic coordination from national bodies. Canada has one of the longest-standing genetics professional specialty organizations and is one of the few countries offering master’s level training designed specifically for genetic counselors. Prenatal screening is offered as part of routine clinical prenatal services with variable uptake. Surveillance of the effect of prenatal screening and diagnosis on the birth prevalence of congenital anomalies is limited by gaps and variations in surveillance systems. Newborn screening programs vary between provinces and territories in terms of organization and conditions screened for. The last decade has witnessed a four-fold increase in requests for genetic testing, especially for late onset diseases. Tests are performed in provincial laboratories or outside Canada. There is wide variation in participation in laboratory quality assurance schemes, and there are few regulatory frameworks in Canada that are directly relevant to genetics testing services or population genetics. Health technology assessment in Canada is conducted by a diverse range of organizations, several of which have produced reports related to genetics. Several large-scale population cohort studies are underway or planned, with initiatives to harmonize their conduct and the management of ethical issues, both within Canada and with similar projects in other countries.