bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Environmentally responsive supply chains
Authors: Chandra Shukla Apratul , Deshmukh S.G. , Kanda Arun
Published: December 2009

Purpose

The arrival of global manufacturers has brought about new challenges such as environmental concerns and sustainability of supply chains. The purpose of this paper is to identify implementation level, major drivers, various practices and performance of environmentally and socially‐conscious supply chain management (SCM) in the context of the automobile industry in India.

Design/methodology/approach

The literature is reviewed to understand various challenges/barriers to the adoption of green supply chain management (GSCM) practices; statistical analysis of various drivers, practices and performance of environmentally and socially conscious supply chain is carried out in the case of an automobile cluster in central India. Personal interviews are conducted and a structured questionnaire is used for data collection from 30 organizations including original equipment manufacturers, first‐ and second‐tier suppliers.

Findings

Environmentally and socially responsive supply chains are in the early adoption stages in India. Companies studied in the auto cluster are not adequately addressing these measures in supply chain design and operations; though awareness and inclination to adopt has been on the rise – actual implementation lacks a holistic approach.

Originality/value

Investigation of GSCM along with social concerns is rarely done in the Indian context. This paper will offer valuable insights for managers in understanding the consequences of non‐compliance, especially with the Indian automobile industry recently becoming global.
Line‐haul optimization of OFLT Inc.
Authors: Ozcam Adivar Burcu , Yurt Oznur
Published: December 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to describe a case study which can be used as a teaching exercise. This study aims to support students' and/or practitioners' knowledge on line‐haul optimization techniques and their ability to analyze and solve problems on transportation management.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper focuses on transportation management processes of a leading company in the sector, Ohio Freight Lines Transportation Inc., and a consultancy firm, A.C. Consultancy Service Inc. Although it is a real case, the name of the company has been omitted due to confidentiality reasons. However, this should not affect the key messages and learning points.

Findings

At the end of the case text, ten questions and their potential answers are also provided as a teaching note.

Originality/value

The case study is based on the idea that a firm's efficiency and profitability levels depend on its operational efficiencies.
Recession: a shot in the arm for HR
Authors: Griffin Ed , Smith Grahame
Published: December 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this article is to provide a practical view of the developing role of HR, particularly given recessionary conditions. It aims to identify the ways in which HR teams can combine serving the short‐term needs of the organization with making a deeper longer‐term contribution.

Design/methodology/approach

This article is based upon the authors' experience of working with HR teams in both the private and public sectors in the UK and Northern Europe. In parallel with this, they have worked with many line management teams across sectors and heard both their complaints and praise for HR. The article also draws upon recent research in HR Business Partnering led by one of the authors.

Findings

It was found that those HR teams that sustain a balanced contribution to organizational success seem to have a number of key components: operational effectiveness in delivering core HR services, flexible HR strategy, commercial focus and highly credible individuals.

Originality/value

The article highlights the importance of HR teams balancing their operational effectiveness with longer‐term strategic impact, and professional expertise with personal credibility and presence. The attraction of being involved in large‐scale organizational change may mean that HR provides the operational support for change but loses its greater influence. In developing HR professionals it will continue to be important to get the right mix of personal skills and technical expertise.
Improving competence and compliance through self‐service and e‐learning development
Authors: Mundey Matt
Published: December 2009

Purpose

Healthcare organizations in the UK face a particular combination of challenges in managing learning and development (L&D) activity and have traditionally lagged behind corporates in adopting relevant technologies. However, a wave of initiatives from the UK government's Department of Health has underlined its support for greater use of technology and greater deployment of e‐learning to improve knowledge and competence throughout National Health Service (NHS) organizations. These organizations also have to meet a variety of mandatory and statutory reporting requirements and in effect suffer financial penalties if they fail to meet set targets. The purpose of this case study is to review how one newly‐merged Primary Care Trust (PCT) – a body that manages local delivery of primary healthcare – progressed from having a new L&D team with no common systems, to successfully rolling out self‐service learning and e‐learning to end users.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper uses the experience of the PCTs covering the Hertfordshire area as a case study.

Findings

The trust has found that the right strategy and technologies deliver greater transparency to the L&D process, raising the profile of L&D in the organization, creating better understanding and appreciation of the benefits of L&D and generating better training attendances and positive feedback.

Originality/value

The Hertfordshire PCTs form one of the most proactive and innovative healthcare organizations in the UK, in terms of the rollout of self‐service learning and the way it integrates the NHS web‐based knowledge and skills framework – called the e‐KSF – with its learning management system. This potentially offers valuable insights to other healthcare organizations.
Building for the future with virtual learning
Authors: Aitken Rachel
Published: December 2009

Purpose

The economic downturn has forced many HR and training managers to find more cost effective ways of providing training to employees. This article aims to examine some of these methods, in particular virtual learning via conferencing.

Design/methodology/approach

The article examines different types of virtual learning methods and looks in depth at how training via conferencing has benefited two educational organizations, City & Guilds and Cambridge Regional College.

Findings

The article shows how virtual learning can provide organizations with cost‐effective training programs.

Originality/value

The methods used in this article offer practical training solutions to HR/training professionals in any organization.
Introduction of weather‐derivative concepts: perspectives for Portugal
Authors: Ghiulnara Alieva , Viegas Cristina
Published: December 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present an overview of weather derivatives markets and to highlight the importance of the contributing factors for weather risk management such as weather sensitivity, weather forecast, and economic growth. In this paper, the prospective of using weather derivatives in Portugal and why Portugal should use such instruments as well as the potential of Portugal's enterprises are presented.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper attempts to distinguish the reasons for the appearance of a weather derivatives market and the growth potential of the European weather market.

Findings

Successful development of a Portuguese weather derivatives market will require three things. For the successful development of weather derivatives market, a legal and economic framework is needed, as well as the development of new weather products, training of qualified specialists for working with these instruments and attracting companies interested in hedging their profits. A combination of these factors will help growth and will accelerate the development of a weather derivatives market in Portugal.

Originality/value

The paper identifies some conditions that could allow the progress of the weather derivatives market in Portugal.
Gearing investments with uncertainty
Authors: Thompson Colin J. , Burgman Mark A.
Published: December 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to outline a method for evaluating gearing ratios when the loan rate and the rate of growth of the asset value are subject to severe uncertainty.

Design/methodology/approach

Gearing ratios often are determined without any explicit methodology to deal with uncertainty. A simple system is designed that includes uncertainty in loan and growth rates and Wald's maximin criterion to evaluate options is used. The paper shows its numerical interpretation, provide a nomogram to facilitate its use, and link it to some recent decisions by listed companies.

Findings

The method outlined here provides an explicit mechanism to consider uncertainties in rates that can guard against unanticipated fluctuations in the value of assets, providing a measure of robustness to uncertainty in investments.

Practical implications

The method provides a platform for exploring uncertainties and their consequences and making tradeoffs among alternative investment strategies.

Originality/value

A new method for dealing with uncertainty in gearing ratios will be valuable to investors considering both short‐ and long‐term strategies. The importance of this approach is underlined by recent failures to anticipate market fluctuations and their implications.
Profiling research published in the Journal of Enterprise Information Management (JEIM)
Authors: Dwivedi Yogesh K. , Mustafee Navonil
Published: December 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to analyse research published in the Journal of Enterprise Information Management (JEIM) in the last ten years (1999‐2008).

Design/methodology/approach

Employing a profiling approach, the analysis of the 381 JEIM publications includes examining variables such as the most active authors, geographic diversity, authors' backgrounds, co‐author analysis, research methods and keyword analysis.

Findings

All the findings are in relation to the period of analysis (1999‐2008). Research categorised under descriptive, theoretical and conceptual methods is the most dominant research approach followed by JEIM authors. This is followed by case study research. The largest proportion of contributions comes from researchers and practitioners with an information systems (IS) background, followed by those with a background in business and computer science and IT. The keyword analysis suggests that “IS”, “electronic commerce”, “internet”, “logistics”, “supply chain management”, “decision making”, “small to medium‐sized enterprises”, “information management”, “outsourcing” and “modelling” are the most frequently investigated keywords. The paper presents and discusses the findings obtained from the citation analysis that determines the impact of the research published in JEIM.

Originality/value

The primary value of this paper lies in extending the understanding of the evolution and patterns of IS research. This has been achieved by analysing and synthesising existing JEIM publications.
Internet‐based ICT adoption among SMEs
Authors: Sin Tan Khong , Choy Chong Siong , Lin Binshan , Cyril Eze Uchenna
Published: December 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the demographic characteristics of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) with regards to their patterns of internet‐based information and communications technology (ICT) adoption, taking into account the dimensions of ICT benefits, barriers, and subsequently adoption intention.

Design/methodology/approach

A questionnaire‐based survey is used to collect data from 406 managers or owners of SMEs in Malaysia.

Findings

The results reveal that the SMEs would adopt internet‐based ICT regardless of years of business start‐up and internet experience. Some significant differences are spotted between manufacturing and service SMEs in terms of their demographic characteristics and internet‐based ICT benefits, barriers, and adoption intention. Both the industry types express intention to adopt internet‐based ICT, with the service‐based SMEs demonstrating greater intention.

Research limitations/implications

The paper focuses only on the SMEs in the southern region of Malaysia.

Practical implications

The findings offer valuable insights to the SMEs – in particular promoting internet‐based ICT adoption for future business success.

Originality/value

This paper is perhaps one of the first to comprehensively investigate the relationship between demographic characteristics of SMEs and the various variables affecting their internet‐based ICT adoption intention.
Managing the transition to global electronic markets in the resource engineering sector
Authors: Standing Craig , Stockdale Rosemary , Love Peter E.D.
Published: December 2009

Purpose

Most electronic market (e‐markets)‐based research that has been undertaken has primarily focused on the design and development of systems to support electronic trading within national boundaries and it has been implied that conducting business through this medium is beneficial to the organisation. The purpose of this paper is therefore to examine the relative significance of economic, social, political and cultural factors and their interconnections in the transition to global e‐markets.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper uses an interpretive case study as this facilitates an understanding of how globalisation constructs affect the transition of organisations to the global market environment.

Findings

The case study has found the need for organisations to address a wide range of issues if they are to benefit from participation in global electronic marketplaces (e‐marketplaces). The development of information communication and technologies (ICT) has been viewed as a primary factor in the reduction of transaction costs and one which allows for a greater number of suppliers in electronic markets. A large supplier base is seen as an advantage by some since it improves the bargaining position of the buyer. Dealing closely with a small number of suppliers may reduce transaction costs and risk, but such costs and risks have been significantly reduced by the development of internet based e‐marketplaces where the market absorbs a high proportion of both. In the case study, an organisation moving to the e‐market because of the advantages of significantly reduced transaction costs has been seen.

Originality/value

The literature adoption of global procurement platforms stresses the economic benefits. However, few studies have examined the social, cultural and political factors that are part of the globalisation trend and how these impact on companies trying to make a transition to global procurement strategies. In this paper, it is revealed that the trend toward globalisation fuelled by ICT is affected by a complex array of economic, social, political and cultural factors. The economic benefits of globalisation cannot be fully realised without consideration of the social, political and cultural issues.
From intention to use to actual rejection: the journey of an e‐procurement system
Authors: Elbanna Amany
Published: December 2009

Purpose

Technology acceptance model (TAM) has been described as one of the most influential theories in information systems (IS), but new studies have suggested that the simplicity of this theory, which helped predict users' acceptance, has actually hindered research progress on the complex issues involved and called researchers to go beyond TAM to open the black box of systems use. The purpose of this paper is to argue that TAM studies implicitly assume a linear straightforward relationship between intentions to adopt and use IS and actual use. It aims to explore this relationship and investigate the possible existence of factors that could moderate the impact of initial intentions on actual IS use.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper follows the interpretive research tradition. It investigates a case of an e‐procurement system that was initially accepted for its usefulness and ease of use. The system was later rejected and not put in any significant use when it went live.

Findings

Data analysis reveals the complex ramification of systems configuration and business process change that could affect system use – reversing its initial acceptance and positive intention to use.

Originality/value

The paper provides insight into system acceptance and use in mandatory and workplace contexts. It demonstrates that the move from the initial acceptance to actual use is more problematic than TAM suggests. It provides a novel conceptualisation of business processes as holders of social and technical networks that constitute actors' performing power.
Reducing sex under the influence of drugs or alcohol for patients in substance abuse treatment
Authors: Calsyn Donald A. , Crits‐Christoph Paul , Hatch‐Maillette Mary A. , Doyle Suzanne R. , Song Yong S. , Coyer Susan , Pelta Sara
Published: December 2009

Aims In a previous report, the effectiveness of the Real Men Are Safe (REMAS) intervention in reducing the number of unprotected sexual occasions among male drug abuse treatment patients was demonstrated. A secondary aim of REMAS was to reduce the frequency with which men engage in sex under the influence (SUI) of drugs or alcohol.

Design Men in methadone maintenance (n = 173) or out‐patient psychosocial treatment (n = 104) completed assessments at baseline, 3 and 6 months post‐intervention.

Participants The participants were assigned randomly to attend either REMAS (five sessions containing information, motivational exercises and skills training, including one session specifically targeting reducing SUI) or human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) education (HIV‐Ed; one session containing HIV prevention information). SUI during the most recent sexual event served as the primary outcome in a repeated measures logistic regression model.

Findings Men assigned to the REMAS condition reporting SUI at the most recent sexual event decreased from 36.8% at baseline to 25.7% at 3 months compared to a increase from 36.9% to 38.3% in the HIV‐Ed condition (tintervention = −2.16,P = 0.032). No difference between the treatment groups was evident at 6‐month follow‐up. At each assessment time‐point, sex with a casual partner versus a regular partner, and being in methadone maintenance versus psychosocial out‐patient treatment, were associated with engaging in SUI.

Conclusions Overall, a motivational and skills training HIV prevention intervention designed for men was associated with greater reduction in SUI than standard HIV education at the 3‐month follow‐up.
Sharing kidneys across donor‐service area boundaries with sensitized candidates can be influenced by HLA C
Authors: Bryan Christopher F. , Luger Alan M. , Smith John L. , Warady Bradley A. , Wakefield Mark , Schadde Erik , Murillo Daniel , Nelson Paul W.
Published: December 2009

Bryan CF, Luger AM, Smith JL, Warady BA, Wakefield M, Schadde E, Murillo D, Nelson PW. Sharing kidneys across donor‐service area boundaries with sensitized candidates can be influenced by HLA C. Clin Transplant 2010: 24: 56–61. © 2009 John Wiley & Sons A/S.

Abstract:  The United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS) implemented the virtual crossmatch system in UNet as a way to improve the likelihood of a negative crossmatch when kidneys are shared with HLA‐sensitized candidates across donor service area (DSA) boundaries. The role of HLA C in that process is not universally appreciated. We recently experienced an unexpected positive flow T and B cell crossmatch for an imported, HLA zero‐mismatched kidney because of donor‐specific HLA C antibodies and transplanted it into the backup candidate. HLA C locus antigens were not typed by the OPO’s laboratory that sent the kidney so the UNet virtual crossmatch could not “strike” our candidate from the UNOS match run. HLA C locus typing data of donors for kidneys our DSA imported from other DSAs revealed that C typing was not performed in 23% (14/60) and was discrepant with our molecular type for 10% (6/60) and was concordant in 67% (40/60) of cases. The rate of positive donor‐specific crossmatches was higher (83%) for HLA C discrepantly typed donors than for concordantly typed donors (44%). Sensitization for HLA C (42%) is less frequent than for A (80%) or B (83%) locus antigens but the immunogenicity of C locus antigens in patients who make C locus antibodies is equivalent in black and white patients. Finally, the transplant rate of imported kidneys into class I‐sensitized candidates was 24%, and C locus‐sensitized candidates comprised 55% of those transplanted.
Short‐term renal outcomes in African American and Caucasian donors following live kidney donation
Authors: Reeves‐Daniel A. , Freedman B.I. , Assimos D. , Hartmann E.L. , Bleyer A. , Adams P.L. , Westcott C. , Stratta R.J. , Rogers J. , Farney A.C. , Daniel K.R.
Published: December 2009

Reeves‐Daniel A, Freedman BI, Assimos D, Hartmann EL, Bleyer A, Adams PL, Westcott C, Stratta RJ, Rogers J, Farney AC, Daniel KR. Short‐term renal outcomes in African American and Caucasian donors following live kidney donation. Clin Transplant 2009 DOI: 10.1111/j.1399‐0012.2009.01170.x © 2009 John Wiley & Sons A/S.

Abstract: Introduction: Although African Americans (AA) are considered higher risk kidney donors than Caucasians, limited data are available regarding outcomes of AA donors.

Methods: We performed a single‐center retrospective review of all kidney donors from 1993 to 2007 and evaluated race/ethnic differences in post‐donation changes in renal function, incident proteinuria, and systolic blood pressure (SBP) using linear mixed models.

Results: A total of 336 kidney donors (63 AA, 263 Caucasian, 10 other) were evaluated. Before donation, AA had higher serum creatinine concentrations, estimated glomerular filtration rate (GFR) values, and SBP levels than Caucasians. No significant changes in SBP or renal function were observed between the two groups within the first year after donation, although results were limited by incomplete follow‐up.

Conclusion: AA had higher pre‐donation serum creatinine, GFR, and SBP values compared to Caucasians; however, the degree of change in renal function and blood pressure did not differ between groups following kidney donation. Although long‐term studies are needed, our study suggests that AA and Caucasians experience similar short‐term consequences after donation. The incomplete data available on donor outcomes in our center and in prior publications also indicates a global need to implement systems for structured follow‐up of live kidney donors.
Dexmedetomidine provides cortical neuroprotection: impact on anaesthetic‐induced neuroapoptosis in the rat developing brain
Authors: SANDERS R. D. , SUN P. , PATEL S. , LI M. , MAZE M. , MA D.
Published: December 2009

Background: Recent evidence has demonstrated the anti‐apoptotic of dexmedetomidine in different brain injury models. Herein, we investigated whether dexmedetomidine could directly protect against cortical injury in vitro and in vivo.

Methods: Apoptosis was induced by staurosporine or wortmannin treatment in cortical neuronal cultures in vitro or by 6 h of isoflurane (0.75%) administration to post‐natal day 7 rat pups in vivo. Dexmedetomidine was then applied in escalating doses to assess the neuroprotective potential of this agent. Cell survival was quantified using an MTT assay in vitro and in vivo apoptosis was assessed using cleaved caspase‐3 immunohistochemistry. Cortical Western blots were conducted for the cellular survival proteins Bcl‐2 and phosphorylated extracellular signal‐regulated protein kinase (pERK)1 and 2.

Results: In vitro dexmedetomidine dose‐dependently prevented both staurosporine‐ and wortmannin‐induced injury in cortical neuronal cultures, indicating that dexmedetomidine can prevent apoptosis when applied directly. In vivo isoflurane induced cortical neuroapoptosis compared with air (327±80 vs. 34±9 caspase‐3‐positive neurons; P<0.05). Dexmedetomidine inhibited isoflurane‐induced caspase‐3 expression (P<0.05), although the protection achieved did not completely attenuate the isoflurane injury (P<0.05 vs. air). Isoflurane treatment decreased Bcl‐2 and pERK protein expression relative to air, an effect reversed by dexmedetomidine treatment.

Conclusions: Dexmedetomidine prevents cortical apoptosis in vitro and in vivo. However, using higher doses of dexmedetomidine does not further increase protection against isoflurane injury in the cortex than previously observed.
Controlling western corn rootworm larvae with entomopathogenic nematodes: effect of application techniques on plant‐scale efficacy
Authors: Toepfer S. , Burger R. , Ehlers R.‐U. , Peters A. , Kuhlmann U.
Published: December 2009

The three larval instars of western corn rootworm (Diabrotica virgifera virgifera LeConte, Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae) feed on the roots of maize, Zea mays (L.). The effects of six application techniques on the plant‐scale efficacy of the entomopathogenic nematode species, Heterorhabditis bacteriophora Poinar (Rhabditida: Heterorhabditidae), in controlling D. v. virgifera populations were assessed in seven field plot experiments in southern Hungary between 2004 and 2007. Approximately 230 000 nematodes were applied per row metre using four different stream spray techniques; or, alternatively 400 000 nematodes per square metre using two different flat spray techniques. Nematode efficacy was assessed by comparing the number of emerging adult D. v. virgifera, and root damage between treatments and untreated controls. All tested nematode application techniques reduced D. v. virgifera density by at least 50% (on average across fields and years). The highest reduction in D. v. virgifera density was 68% and occurred when nematodes were applied into the soil together with maize sowing using a fluid solid stream. Rainfall, the day before application likely increased the control efficacy of H. bacteriophora. Using the 0.00–3.00 node injury damage rating scale, we estimated that potential root damage was prevented by 25–79% when H. bacteriophora was applied. Although, H. bacteriophora can effectively be applied with all of the techniques tested, for optimum performance and minimum costs, it is suggested that the nematodes be applied as follows: (i) as a stream requiring 8–10 times less volume of water than flat sprays, or as a granule requiring no water, and (ii) into the soil when sowing maize, requiring less water than soil surface sprays and avoiding the destruction of nematodes by UV radiation and additional machinery use.
Field applications ofBeauveria bassianato control the European cherry fruit flyRhagoletis cerasi
Authors: Daniel C. , Wyss E.
Published: December 2009

Field experiments with foliar applications ofBeauveria bassianaATCC 74040 (product Naturalis‐L) were conducted to control the European cherry fruit flyRhagoletis cerasiLoew (Diptera: Tephritidae), a major pest of cherries in Europe. Naturalis‐L was applied at concentrations of 250 ml per 100 l in 7‐day intervals during the flight period ofR. cerasi. Flight activity monitored by yellow sticky traps was only slightly affected by treatments. Infection and mycosis of adult cherry fruit flies was shown to be possible under field conditions. Fruit infestation was assessed at harvest. The number of infested fruits was significantly reduced by 65% with foliar applications of Naturalis‐L. These results were obtained from five experiments in 2 years with considerably different weather conditions (wet vs. dry) and in different orchards with different flight intensities ofR. cerasi(low vs. high) and different cherry varieties (early ripening vs. late ripening). In conclusion, the application of Naturalis‐L is a suitable and economically feasible strategy for controllingR. cerasiin organic cherry production. The product Naturalis‐L is currently registered for cherry fruit fly control in Italy and Switzerland.
Clinical significance of macroscopic completeness of mesorectal resection in rectal cancer
Authors: Leite J. S. , Martins S. C. , Oliveira J. , Cunha M. F. , Castro‐Sousa F.
Published: December 2009

Aim  Local recurrence after resection of rectal cancer is usually regarded as being due to a ‘failure’ of surgery. The completeness of resection of the mesorectum has been proposed as an indicator of the ‘quality’ of the resection. We determined the prognostic value of macroscopic evaluation of rectal cancer resection specimens and the circumferential resection margin (CRM) after curative surgery.

Method  From 1999 to 2006, the macroscopic quality of the mesorectum and the CRM were prospectively assessed in 127 patients who underwent rectal cancer resection with curative intent (R0+R1). Chemoradiotherapy was administered for 61 tumours staged as locally advanced tumours (T3, T4 and N+). Univariate analysis of time to local recurrence and cancer‐free survival were tested (Kaplan–Meier) and multivariate analysis calculated with a Cox regression model.

Results  The mesorectum was incomplete in 34 (26.8%) patients. At a median follow up of 34 months (range, 9–96 months), in the group with an adequate mesorectal excision, the cumulative risk of local recurrence at 5 years was 10%. This was 25% if the mesorectum was incomplete (P < 0.01). Five‐year cancer‐free survival was 65% if the mesorectal excision was adequate and 47% if it was not (P < 0.05). Multivariate analysis identified T status, the CRM and the mesorectal score as independent factors for local recurrence, and T and N status and the mesorectal score as independent factors for disease‐free survival.

Conclusion  The outcome of surgical treatment of rectal cancer is related to the completeness of mesorectal excision. It is a more discriminative prognostic factor than the classic tumour–node–metastasis (TNM) system.
Molecular characterization of upper urinary tract tumours
Authors: Izquierdo Laura , Mengual Lourdes , Gazquez Cristina , Ingelmo‐Torres Mercedes , Alcaraz Antonio
Published: December 2009

OBJECTIVES

To assess gene‐expression patterns of BIRC5, FGFR3, IGF2, KRT20, UPK2, EBF1, CDH1, FXYD3, HTERT, TP53, AGR2, HER2 and VEGF, widely known markers of bladder urothelial carcinoma (UC) in upper tract UC, and to determine their value as prognostic factors of tumour progression and cancer‐specific survival.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

The study included 83 formalin‐fixed paraffin‐embedded tissue specimens (68 and 15 from patients with UTUC and controls, respectively) collected between 1990 and 2004. Thirteen bladder cancer‐related genes were selected from previous reports and analysed by quantitative real‐time reverse transcriptase‐polymerase chain reaction (qRT‐PCR) in all samples.

RESULTS

Six genes were over‐expressed (BIRC5, FGFR3, KRT20, UPK2, FXYD3 and hTERT) and three under‐expressed (AGR2, TP53 and VEGF) in the tumour group (P < 0.05). For four genes (IGF2, EBF1, CDH1 and HER2) there was no statistically significant difference between the tumour and control groups. Overall, 21 patients developed tumour progression and 13 died from UTUC after a mean follow‐up of 35.24 months. The 5‐year disease‐free progression and cancer‐specific survival rates were 65.8% and 72.9%, respectively. In a multivariate regression analysis, the independent predictive variable for tumour progression and cancer‐specific survival was pathological stage (hazard ratio 3.60, P < 0.001; and 3.73, P < 0.005, respectively), but none of the studied genes were identified as prognostic factors of tumour progression or cancer‐specific survival.

CONCLUSIONS

Our data suggest that bladder cancer and UTUC share some characteristics, but have differences in gene expression. None of BIRC5, FGFR3, IGF2, KRT20, UPK2, EBF1, CDH1, FXYD3, HTERT, TP53, AGR2, HER2 and VEGF were correlated either tumour progression or survival.
A Characteristic‐Hull Based Method for Home Range Estimation
Authors: Downs Joni A , Horner Mark W
Published: December 2009

Recent literature has reported inaccuracies associated with some popular home range estimators such as kernel density estimation, especially when applied to point patterns of complex shapes. This study explores the use of characteristic hull polygons (CHPs) as a new method of home range estimation. CHPs are special bounding polygons created in GIS that can have concave edges, be composed of disjoint regions, and contain areas of unoccupied space within their interiors. CHPs are created by constructing the Delaunay triangulation of a set of points and then removing a subset of the resulting triangles. Here, CHPs consisting of 95% of the smallest triangles, measured in terms of perimeter, are applied for home range estimation. First, CHPs are applied to simulated animal locational data conforming to five point pattern shapes at three sample sizes. Then, the method is applied to black‐footed albatross (Phoebastria nigripes) locational data for illustration and comparison to other methods. For the simulated data, 95% CHPs produced unbiased home range estimates in terms of size for linear and disjoint point patterns and slight underestimates (8–20%) for perforated, concave, and convex ones. The estimated and known home ranges intersected one another by 72–96%, depending on shape and sample size, suggesting that the method has potential as a home range estimator. Additionally, the CHPs applied to estimate albatross home ranges illustrate how the method produces reasonable estimates for bird species that intensively forage in disjoint habitat patches.
Drug Interactions of Clinical Importance among the Opioids, Methadone and Buprenorphine, and Other Frequently Prescribed Medications: A Review
Authors: McCance‐Katz Elinore F. , Sullivan Lynn E. , Nallani Srikanth
Published: December 2009

Drug interactions are a leading cause of morbidity and mortality. Methadone and buprenorphine are frequently prescribed for the treatment of opioid addiction. Patients needing treatment with these medications often have co‐occurring medical and mental illnesses that require medication treatment. The abuse of illicit substances is also common in opioid‐addicted individuals. These clinical realities place patients being treated with methadone and buprenorphine at risk for potentially toxic drug interactions. A substantial literature has accumulated on drug interactions between either methadone or buprenorphine with other medications when ingested concomitantly by humans. This review summarizes current literature in this area. (Am J Addict 2009;19:4–16)
Lack of Clinically Significant Drug Interactions between Nevirapine and Buprenorphine
Authors: McCance‐Katz Elinore F. , Moody David E. , Morse Gene D. , Ma Qing , Rainey Petrie M.
Published: December 2009

This study was conducted to determine whether drug interactions of clinical importance occur between buprenorphine, an opioid partial agonist medication used in treatment of opioid dependence, and the nonnucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NNRTI) nevirapine. Opioid‐dependent, buprenorphine/naloxone‐maintained, HIV‐negative volunteers (n = 7) participated in 24‐hour sessions to determine the pharmacokinetics of buprenorphine alone and of buprenorphine and nevirapine following administration of 200 mg nevirapine daily for 15 days. Opiate withdrawal symptoms, cognitive effects, and adverse events were determined prior to and following nevirapine administration. Modest decreases were observed for AUC for buprenorphine and its metabolites. There was a trend for more rapid clearance of both buprenorphine (p = .08) and buprenorphine‐3‐glucuronide (p = .08). While no single effect reached statistical significance, the joint probability that the consistent declines in all measures of exposure were due to chance was extremely low, indicating that nevirapine significantly reduces overall exposure to buprenorphine and buprenorphine metabolites. Clinically significant consequences of the interaction were not observed. Buprenorphine did not alter nevirapine pharmacokinetics. Dose adjustments of either buprenorphine or nevirapine are not likely to be necessary when these drugs are coadministered for the treatment of opiate dependence and HIV disease. (Am J Addict 2009;19:30–37)
Effect of Cocaine Use on Methadone Pharmacokinetics in Humans
Authors: McCance‐Katz Elinore F. , Jatlow Peter , Rainey Petrie M.
Published: December 2009

Chronic cocaine use has been shown to significantly decrease buprenorphine concentrations in the blood with potential for adverse events and poor treatment response. In this study, we investigated whether a similar drug interaction occurred between cocaine and methadone. In a retrospective analysis, methadone pharmacokinetics were compared for those who were either regular cocaine users (N = 16) or with intermittent or no cocaine use (N = 23). Participants who used cocaine regularly showed a significant decrease in Cmin (p = .04) and a trend for decreased AUC (p = .09) and more rapid methadone clearance (p = .08). Regular cocaine use may adversely impact treatment outcomes for opioid dependence in those receiving methadone maintenance by decreasing methadone exposure. (Am J Addict 2009;19:47–52)
Drug Interactions between Antiretroviral Medications and Medications Used in the Treatment of Drug Addiction: Research Needs
Authors: Khalsa Jag H. , Elkashef Ahmed
Published: December 2009

Today substance dependence is one of the major public health problems in the world with millions of people abusing legal and illegal drugs. In addition, almost one‐third of the world's population suffers with one or more infections. Both drugs of abuse and infections are associated with serious medical and health consequences, some of which may be exacerbated by the occurrence of pharmacokinetic and/or pharmacodynamic interactions between medications used in the treatment of these conditions when they co‐occur. This review briefly discusses issues surrounding clinical management related to drug interactions experienced by substance abusing patients. The emphasis of this paper is on the research needed to further study the extent, nature, and underlying molecular/genetic mechanism(s) of interactions between drugs of abuse, medications used in the treatment of drug addiction, and co‐occurring infections. (Am J Addict 2009;19:96–100)
Herpes simplex virus type‐2 in Egyptian patients with bladder cancer or cystitis
Authors: BADAWI HALA , AHMED HANEM , ABOUL FADL LAILA , HELMI AMIRA , FAM NEVINE , DIAB MANAL , ISMAIL AHMED , BADAWI AFKAR , SABER MOHAMED
Published: December 2009

Badawi H, Ahmed H, Aboul Fadl L, Helmi A, Fam N, Diab M, Ismail A, Badawi A, Saber M. Herpes simplex virus type‐2 in Egyptian patients with bladder cancer or cystitis. APMIS 2010; 118: 37–44.

The present study was designed to investigate the prevalence of herpes simplex virus type‐2 (HSV‐2) in Egyptian patients with bladder cancer or cystitis and to evaluate the performance of different diagnostic HSV‐2 assays. The study included 50 patients: 27 with bladder cancer (group I), 23 with cystitis (group II) and 20 subjects as controls (group III). HSV‐2 DNA was detected using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) on bladder tissue and buffy coat cells (BCC). Electron microscopic studies (EMS) on BCC and ELISAs for IgM, IgG and specific glycoprotein G‐2 (gG‐2) IgG were performed. HSV‐2 DNA was detected by PCR on bladder tissue biopsies in 29.6% and 21.7% of group I and II respectively and it was also detected by PCR on BCC in 22.2% and 21.7% of group I and II respectively. EMS revealed HSV like particles in 16.6% of cases. IgG, specific gG‐2 IgG and IgM were detected in 30%, 16% and 6% of cases respectively. The different assays were evaluated in relation to PCR on bladder tissue biopsies. The gG‐2‐based ELISA and EMS on BCC were found to be highly specific (97.3% and 100% respectively), with similar low sensitivity of ≈54%. PCR on BCC was the most sensitive assay. The association of HSV‐2 with bladder cancer is suggested especially in schistosomal patients.
P53 deletion may drive the clinical evolution and treatment response in multiple myeloma
Authors: López‐Anglada Lucía , Gutiérrez Norma C. , García Juan L. , Mateos María V. , Flores Teresa , San Miguel Jesús F.
Published: December 2009

We report a patient with multiple myeloma presenting with a paraspinal plasmacytoma with a marked dissociation between the response obtained in bone marrow (BM) infiltration and that achieved in soft tissue masses. While a complete remission was reached and maintained in BM, extramedullary plasmacytomas were refractory to every line of treatment. Genetic analysis identified the presence of t(4;14) and RB deletion in myeloma cells of both origins. However, a P53 deletion was only detected in plasma cells from extramedullary plasmacytomas. This finding suggests that P53 deletion has a role in the lack of treatment response of extramedullary plasmacytomas.
REVIEW ARTICLE: Toll‐Like Receptor Signaling and Pre‐Eclampsia
Authors: Xie Fang , Turvey Stuart E. , Williams Michelle A. , Mor Gil , Von Dadelszen Peter
Published: December 2009

Systemic inflammation and abnormal/poor placentation represent hallmarks of pre‐eclampsia. Accumulating evidence suggests that infectious agents might increase the risk of pre‐eclampsia; the innate immune defense mechanisms may interact with pro‐inflammatory pathways, and contribute to the development of pre‐eclampsia. The evidence for this has been supported by indirect epidemiologic and clinical studies, as well as by some direct support from experimental studies. Recent data directly implicate signaling by Toll‐like receptors in the pathogenesis of pre‐eclampsia, and establish a crucial link between pre‐eclampsia and defense against both foreign pathogens and endogenously generated inflammatory ligands. Here, we review the rapid progress in this field, which has improved our understanding of the interplay between pathogen invasion, innate immune defense mechanisms, and pre‐eclampsia.
REAL‐TIME REVERSE TRANSCRIPTION PCR DETECTION OF VIABLE SHIGA TOXIN‐PRODUCING ESCHERICHIA COLI O157:H7 IN FOOD
Authors: DI R. , TUMER N.E.
Published: December 2009

Shiga toxin (Stx)‐producing Escherichia coli (STEC), particularly E. coli O157:H7, have been associated with food‐related outbreaks and have become a global health concern. Detection of low numbers of viable STEC in food is undoubtedly challenging. The present study demonstrated that 7 × 102 to 7 × 103 cfu E. coli O157:H7 cells in 50 mL of inoculated food samples including apple juice, lettuce and ground beef could be concentrated through a two‐step filtration technique. Bacterial RNA was effectively isolated from the concentrated E. coli O157:H7 cells with the combination of Trizol Max Bacterial RNA Isolation Enhancement Reagent and TriReagent®. Real‐time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction with seven sets of primers targeting virulence and serotype genes of E. coli O157:H7 specifically detected the bacterial RNA representing 1 × 102 to 1 × 103 cfu viable bactersial cells. The total detection time from sampling to measurement was approximately 4 h. This study provides a rapid and specific detection method for viable STEC in food.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

Rapid detection of viable STEC including Escherichia coli O157:H7 cells in food has been difficult, especially when present in low numbers. This study has shown that 7 × 102 to 7 × 103 cfu E. coli O157:H7 in 50 mL of inoculated food samples, i.e., 14–140 cfu/mL bacterial cells, could be readily concentrated and the bacterial RNA could be detected by real‐time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (PCR) in a relatively short time. Use of seven primer sets makes this method very specific for real‐time PCR detection of E. coli O157:H7.
Flagellar Motions in Phototactic Steering in a Brown Algal Swarmer
Authors: Matsunaga Shigeru , Uchida Hiroko , Iseki Mineo , Watanabe Masakatsu , Murakami Akio
Published: December 2009

Using infrared high‐speed video microscopy, we observed light‐triggered transitory flagellar motions in flagellate reproductive cells (swarmers) of a brown alga, Scytosiphon lomentaria, under primary helical swimming conditions before and during negative phototactic orientation to unilateral actinic light. The posterior flagellum, which is autofluorescent and thought to be light‐sensing, was passively dragged in the dark and exhibited one to several rapid lateral beats during orientation changes for phototactic steering. Notably, a brief cessation of anterior flagellar beating was occasionally observed concomitantly with rapid beats of the posterior flagellum. This behavior caused a pause in helical body rotation, which may contribute to the accuracy of phototactic steering. Thus, coordinated regulation of the movement of the two flagella plays a crucial role in phototactic steering.
Issues in long‐term percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy feeding in a nursing home: a case study
Authors: Adams John , Lewin David
Published: December 2009

Aim.  To explore the experiences of care staff in managing long‐term percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) feeding regimes.

Background.  Since its first description in 1980, PEG feeding has become a widely‐used technique to provide enteral nutritional support. Its initial use for short term feeding has subsequently been extended to encompass long‐term care.

Methods.  A single institution case study, employing mixed methods, was conducted in one English nursing home. Data were collected from an unstructured interview, questionnaires and a focus group in 2004–2005.

Results.  The two key concerns of care staff were found to relate to clinical issues, such as vomiting, and the ethical issues surrounding PEG insertion.

Conclusions.  Care staff would value the creation of a safe forum in which their views could be shared.

Relevance to clinical practice.  As PEG tube use becomes more common in long‐term care environments, care staff need to reflect upon the clinical and ethical issues that are raised.
Brain magnetic resonance imaging findings in patients with systemic sclerosis
Authors: MOHAMED Reem H. A. , NASSEF Amr A.
Published: December 2009

Background:  Systemic sclerosis is a multisystem disease where functional and structural abnormalities of small blood vessels prevail. Recently, transient ischemic attacks, ischemic stroke, and hemorrhages have been reported as primary consequence of vascular central nervous system affection in systemic sclerosis. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is considered to be the most sensitive diagnostic technique for detecting symptomatic and asymptomatic lesions in the brain in cases of multifocal diseases.

Objective:  Evaluate brain changes in patients with systemic sclerosis using MRI.

Patients and methods:  Thirty female patients with systemic sclerosis aged 27–61 years, with disease duration of 1–9 years and with no history of other systemic disease or cerebrovascular accidents, were enrolled. An age‐matched female control group of 30 clinically normal subjects, underwent brain MR examination.

Results:  Central nervous system involvement in the form of white matter hyperintense foci of variable sizes were found in significantly abundant forms in systemic sclerosis patients on MR evaluation than in the age‐related control group, signifying a form of central nervous system vasculopathy. Such foci showed no definite correlation with disease duration, yet they showed significant correlation to severity of peripheral vascular disease, headaches, fainting attacks and depression in the group under study.

Conclusion:  Asymptomatic as well as symptomatic central nervous system ischemic vasculopathy is not uncommon in systemic sclerosis patients and MRI is considered a sensitive noninvasive screening tool for early detection of CNS involvement in patients with systemic sclerosis.