Managerial accounting This case study is based on real events which occurred in 2010. It describes the launch by MPO Fentres of new windows, characterised by improved thermal performance, achieved by the use of triple glazing. This company is based in the French region of Orne. It has 200 employees, and realized a turnover of over 35 million in 2010. It has positioned itself as an innovative company, always seeking to apply the latest technical developments. In the current economic crisis customers are more careful with their money, and think more carefully about potential purchases. In recent years it has been shown that consumers' purchasing behaviour has evolved, and that criteria such as sustainable development and environmental protection are now among the factors that may influence purchasing decisions. In this sense, an "ecological consciousness" has emerged. Not only the Grenelle de l'Environnement (a French forum for the discussion of issues relating to sustainable development) and government standards, but also tax credits associated with the purchase of certain goods, have affected the housing industry, and therefore also window manufacturers. Rebuilding and renovation are also subject to these factors.

1 How can gabapentin and carbamazepine act with a cervical disc prolapse?

2 Do patients with cervical spondylosis, experiencing neck pain and stiffness, benefit from putting on a neck collar? If so, for how long should the collar be worn?

3 What is indicated by a straightening of the lumbar spine with a loss of normal lordosis, and is there any relation to ankylosing spondylitis?

4 Can cervical spondylosis cause hypertonia in one upper limb?

5 Should a female patient, with mild congestive cardiac failure, microalbuminuria and cervical spondylosis receive IV vitamin D/ analogues? Would this not increase the risk of calcium stones owing to the mild renal impairment? Would oral vitamin D be preferable?

6 What is the recommended treatment for spinal canal stenosis? Do carbamazepine or vasodilators have a role to play in its treatment?

7 What technique is used for injecting steroids locally in the case of carpal tunnel syndrome?

8 In a patient who has sustained an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) knee injury and whose pain and swelling have subsided on conservative treatment, what are the chances of complications (e.g. osteoarthritis, fibrosis) from the torn ligament. Will the patient be able to lead a normal life?

9 Is either gapapentin or carbamazepine effective in the treatment of meralgia paraesthetica?

10 What is the clinical differentiation between Dupuytren's contracture and ulnar nerve palsy? Is it the absence of sensory deficit in the former? Are there any other differentiating factors?