bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Promoter hypermethylation-mediated inactivation of multiple Slit-Robo pathway genes in cervical cancer progression
Authors: Narayan Gopeshwar , Goparaju Chandra , Arias-Pulido Hugo , Kaufmann Andreas M , Schneider Achim , Dürst Matthias , Mansukhani Mahesh , Pothuri Bhavana , Murty Vundavalli V
Published: May 2006

Background

Cervical Cancer (CC) exhibits highly complex genomic alterations. These include hemizygous deletions at 4p15.3, 10q24, 5q35, 3p12.3, and 11q24, the chromosomal sites of Slit-Robo pathway genes. However, no candidate tumor suppressor genes at these regions have been identified so far. Slit family of secreted proteins modulates chemokine-induced cell migration of distinct somatic cell types. Slit genes mediate their effect by binding to its receptor Roundabout (Robo). These genes have shown to be inactivated by promoter hypermethylation in a number of human cancers.

Results

To test whether Slit-Robo pathway genes are targets of inactivation at these sites of deletion, we examined promoter hypermethylation of SLIT1, SLIT2, SLIT3, ROBO1, and ROBO3 genes in invasive CC and its precursor lesions. We identified a high frequency of promoter hypermethylation in all the Slit-Robo genes resulting in down regulated gene expression in invasive CC, but the inhibitors of DNA methylation and histone deacetylases (HDACs) in CC cell lines failed to effectively reactivate the down-regulated expression. These results suggest a complex mechanism of inactivation in the Slit-Robo pathway in CC. By analysis of cervical precancerous lesions, we further show that promoter hypermethylation of Slit-Robo pathway occurs early in tumor progression.

Conclusion

Taken together, these findings suggest that epigenetic alterations of Slit-Robo pathway genes (i) play a role in CC development, (ii) further delineation of molecular basis of promoter methylation-mediated gene regulation provides a potential basis for epigenetic-based therapy in advanced stage CC, and (iii) form epigenetic signatures to identify precancerous lesions at risk to progression.
Functional studies of BCL11A: characterization of the conserved BCL11A-XL splice variant and its interaction with BCL6 in nuclear paraspeckles of germinal center B cells
Authors: Liu Hui , Ippolito Gregory C , Wall Jason K , Niu Teresa , Probst Loren , Lee Baeck-Seung , Pulford Karen , Banham Alison H , Stockwin Luke , Shaffer Arthur L , Staudt Louis M , Das Chhaya , Dyer Martin JS , Tucker Philip W
Published: May 2006

Background

Chromosomal aberrations of BCL11A at 2p16.1 have been reported in a variety of B-cell malignancies and its deficiency in mice leads to a profound block in B-cell development.

Results

Alternative pre-mRNA splicing of BCL11A produces multiple isoforms sharing a common N-terminus. The most abundant isoform we have identified in human lymphoid samples is BCL11A-XL, the longest transcript produced at this locus, and here we report the conservation of this major isoform and its functional characterization. We show that BCL11A-XL is a DNA-sequence-specific transcriptional repressor that associates with itself and with other BCL11A isoforms, as well as with the BCL6 proto-oncogene. Western blot data for BCL11A-XL expression coupled with data previously published for BCL6 indicates that these genes are expressed abundantly in germinal-center-derived B cells but that expression is extinguished upon terminal differentiation to the plasma cell stage. Although BCL11A-XL/BCL6 interaction can modulate BCL6 DNA binding in vitro, their heteromeric association does not alter the homomeric transcriptional properties of either on model reporter activity. BCL11A-XL partitions into the nuclear matrix and colocalizes with BCL6 in nuclear paraspeckles.

Conclusion

We propose that the conserved N-terminus of BCL11A defines a superfamily of C2HC zinc-finger transcription factors involved in hematopoietic malignancies.
Comparison of tricuspid inflow and superior vena caval Doppler velocities in acute simulated hypovolemia: new non-invasive indices for evaluating right ventricular preload
Authors: Liu Jie , Cao Tie-Sheng , Yuan Li-Jun , Duan Yun-You , Yang Yi-Lin
Published: May 2006

Background

Assessment of cardiac preload is important for clinical management of some emergencies related to hypovolemia. Effects of acute simulated hypovolemia on Doppler blood flow velocity indices of tricuspid valve (TV) and superior vena cava (SVC) were investigated in order to find sensitive Doppler indices for predicting right ventricular preload.

Methods

Doppler flow patterns of SVC and TV in 12 healthy young men were examined by transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) during graded lower body negative pressure (LBNP) of up to -60 mm Hg which simulated acute hypovolemia. Peak velocities of all waves and their related ratios (SVC S/D and tricuspid E/A) were measured, calculated and statistically analyzed.

Results

Except for the velocity of tricuspid A wave, velocities of all waves and their related ratios declined during volume decentralization. Of all indices measured, the peak velocities of S wave and AR wave in SVC correlated most strongly with levels of LBNP (r = -0.744 and -0.771, p < 0.001).

Conclusion

The S and AR velocities are of good values in assessing right ventricular preload. Monitoring SVC flow may provide a relatively noninvasive means to assess direct changes in right ventricular preload.
Theory and practice – a case study of coordination and ownership in the Bangladesh health SWAp
Authors: Sundewall Jesper , Forsberg Birger Carl , Tomson Göran
Published: May 2006

Background

In the past decade the sector-wide approach (SWAp) model has been promoted by donors and adopted by governments in several countries. The purpose of this study is to look at how partners involved in the health SWAp in Bangladesh define ownership and coordination, in their daily work and to analyse the possible implications of these definitions.

Methodology

The study object was a process of decision-making in the Government of Bangladesh in 2003. Information was collected through participant observations, interviews and document review.

Results

During the study period the Government of Bangladesh decided to reverse a decision to unify the two wings of the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. The decision led to disagreements with development partners, which had serious implications for cooperation between key actors in the Bangladesh health sector leading to deteriorated relationships and suspension of donor funds. The donor community in itself was also in disagreement which led to inconsistencies in the dialogue between the development partners and the Government of Bangladesh.

Conclusion

The case shows that main actors in the Bangladesh health SWAp interpret ownership and coordination, fundamental aspects of SWAp, differently. As long as work ran smoothly, the different definitions did not create any problems, but when disagreements arose they became an obstacle. It is concluded that partners in development should devote more effort to their working relationships and that responsibilities within a SWAp need to be more clearly delineated.
Environmental influences on energy balance-related behaviors: A dual-process view
Authors: Kremers Stef PJ , de Bruijn Gert-Jan , Visscher Tommy LS , van Mechelen Willem , de Vries Nanne K , Brug Johannes
Published: May 2006

Background

Studies on the impact of the 'obesogenic' environment have often used non-theoretical approaches. In this journal's debate and in other papers authors have argued the necessity of formulating conceptual models for differentiating the causal role of environmental influences on behavior.

Discussion

The present paper aims to contribute to the debate by presenting a dual-process view on the environment – behavior relationship. This view is conceptualized in the EnRG framework (Environmental Research framework for weight Gain prevention). In the framework, behavior is postulated to be the result of a simultaneous influence of conscious and unconscious processes. Environmental influences are hypothesized to influence behavior both indirectly and directly. The indirect causal mechanism reflects the mediating role of behavior-specific cognitions in the influence of the environment on behavior. A direct influence reflects the automatic, unconscious, influence of the environment on behavior. Specific personal and behavioral factors are postulated to moderate the causal path (i.e., inducing either the automatic or the cognitively mediated environment – behavior relation). In addition, the EnRG framework applies an energy balance-approach, stimulating the integrated study of determinants of diet and physical activity.

Conclusion

The application of a dual-process view may guide research towards causal mechanisms linking specific environmental features with energy balance-related behaviors in distinct populations. The present paper is hoped to contribute to the evolution of a paradigm that may help to disentangle the role of 'obesogenic' environmental factors.
Lack of CD117 and rare bcl-2 expression in stomach cancer by immunohistochemistry. An immunohistochemical study with review of the literature
Authors: Mireskandari Masoud , Shafaii Ali Fakhr , Kayser Gian , Kayser Klaus
Published: May 2006

Background

Gastric adenocarcinoma is one of the most frequent malignancies worldwide including Iran. This study was designed to immunohistochemically evaluate the CD117 and bcl-2 expression in gastric carcinomas and their potential use as therapeutic targets in the treatment of patients with advanced stage gastric cancer.

Materials and methods

Representative paraffin blocks obtained from 38 operated gastric adenocarcinoma patients were retrieved from Afzalipour Hospital pathology department archive, Kerman, Iran. Immunohistochemical analysis (IHC) for CD117 was carried out in all cases including negative (normal gastric epithelium) and positive (Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumor) controls. In addition, the cases were evaluated immunohistochemically for apoptosis-related protein (bcl-2), to evaluating a potential association of CD117 expression with the cell proliferation regulatory pathways.

Results

No positive reaction for CD117 was seen in gastric carcinoma tumor cells irrespective to the cell type, grade, and stage, proliferation and apoptosis rate. Expression of bcl-2 was observed in only one case.

Conclusion

We conclude that CD117 overexpression detectable by immunohistochemistry does not play a significant role in gastric carcinoma pathways and development, although overexpression at the gene level and/or mutated CD117 expression might exist. Thus, it is unlikely that the CD117 pathway is of clinical significance in gastric carcinoma patients.
Inhibition of macropinocytosis blocks antigen presentation of type II collagen in vitro and in vivoin HLA-DR1 transgenic mice
Authors: von Delwig Alexei , Hilkens Catharien MU , Altmann Daniel M , Holmdahl Rikard , Isaacs John D , Harding Clifford V , Robertson Helen , McKie Norman , Robinson John H
Published: May 2006

Professional antigen-presenting cells, such as dendritic cells, macrophages and B cells have been implicated in the pathogenesis of rheumatoid arthritis, constituting a possible target for antigen-specific immunotherapy. We addressed the possibility of blocking antigen presentation of the type II collagen (CII)-derived immunodominant arthritogenic epitope CII259–273 to specific CD4 T cells by inhibition of antigen uptake in HLA-DR1-transgenic mice in vitro and in vivo. Electron microscopy, confocal microscopy, subcellular fractionation and antigen presentation assays were used to establish the mechanisms of uptake, intracellular localization and antigen presentation of CII by dendritic cells and macrophages. We show that CII accumulated in membrane fractions of intermediate density corresponding to late endosomes. Treatment of dendritic cells and macrophages with cytochalasin D or amiloride prevented the intracellular appearance of CII and blocked antigen presentation of CII259–273 to HLA-DR1-restricted T cell hybridomas. The data suggest that CII was taken up by dendritic cells and macrophages predominantly via macropinocytosis. Administration of amiloride in vivo prevented activation of CII-specific polyclonal T cells in the draining popliteal lymph nodes. This study suggests that selective targeting of CII internalization in professional antigen-presenting cells prevents activation of autoimmune T cells, constituting a novel therapeutic strategy for the immunotherapy of rheumatoid arthritis.
The incidence and outcome of septic shock patients in the absence of early-goal directed therapy
Authors: Ho Benjamin CH , Bellomo Rinaldo , McGain Forbes , Jones Daryl , Naka Toshio , Wan Li , Braitberg George
Published: May 2006

Introduction

The purpose of the present study was to measure the incidence and outcome of septic patients presenting at the emergency department (ED) with criteria for early goal-directed therapy (EGDT).

Method

This hospital-based, retrospective, observational study using prospectively collected electronic databases was based in a teaching hospital in Melbourne, Australia. We conducted outcome-blinded electronic screening of patients with infection admitted via the ED from 1 January 2000 to 30 June 2003. We obtained data on demographics, laboratory and clinical features on admission. We used paper records to confirm electronic identification of candidates for EGDT and to study their treatment. We followed up all patients until hospital discharge or death.

Results

Of 4,784 ED patients with an infectious disease diagnosis, only 50 fulfilled published clinical inclusion criteria for EGDT (EGDT candidates). Of these patients, 37 (74%) survived their hospital admission, two (4%) died in the ED, eight (16%) died in the intensive care unit and three (6%) died in the ward. After review of all ward cardiac arrests and non-NFR ('not for resuscitation') ward deaths, we identified a further two potential candidates for EGDT for an overall mortality of 28.8% (15 out of 52 patients). Analysis of treatment showed that twice as many (70%) of the EGDT candidates received vasopressor therapy in the ED, and their initial mean central venous pressure (10.8 mmHg) was almost twice that in patients from the EGDT study conducted by Rivers and coworkers.

Conclusion

In an Australian teaching hospital candidates for EGDT were uncommon and, in the absence of an EGDT protocol, their mortality was lower than that reported with EGDT.
Empiric broad-spectrum antibiotic therapy of nosocomial pneumonia in the intensive care unit: a prospective observational study
Authors: Álvarez-Lerma Francisco , Alvarez Bernabe , Luque Pilar , Ruiz Francisco , Dominguez-Roldan Jose-Maria , Quintana Elisabet , Sanz-Rodriguez Cesar ,   the ADANN Study Group
Published: May 2006

Introduction

Antibiotic de-escalation, which consists of the initial institution of empiric broad-spectrum antibiotics followed by antibiotic streamlining driven by microbiological documentation, is thought to provide maximum benefit for the individual patient, while reducing the selection pressure for resistance.

Methods

To assess a carbapenem-based de-escalating strategy in nosocomial pneumonia (NP), a prospective observational study was conducted in critically ill patients with NP treated empirically with imipenem ± aminoglycoside/glycopeptide in 24 intensive care units of Spanish general hospitals. Overall, 244 patients were assessable (91% with late-onset NP). The primary outcome was therapeutic success 7–9 days post therapy.

Results

Microbial identification – based on cultures of tracheal aspirates in 82% of patients, cultures of protected specimen brush in 33%, and cultures of bronchoalveolar lavage in 4% – was only available for 131 (54%) patients. Initial antibiotics were inadequate for 23 (9%) patients. Of the remaining patients, antibiotics were streamlined in 56 (23%) patients and remained unchanged in 14 (6%) patients based on microbiology data, in 38 (16%) patients despite microbiology data favouring de-escalation, and in 113 (46%) patients due to unknown aetiology. Overall, de-escalation was implemented in only 23% of patients with potentially multiresistant pathogens, compared with 68% of patients with the remaining pathogens (P < 0.001). Response rates were 53% for patients continuously treated with imipenem-based regimens and 50% for the de-escalated patients. Higher Acute Physiology, Age, and Chronic Health Evaluation II scores were associated with greater mortality, whereas adequate empiric antibiotic therapy protected against fatal outcomes. No increase of superinfection rates caused by emerging pathogens was observed. The costs associated with de-escalation were mainly dependent on the duration of hospitalization.

Conclusion

This study mainly highlights the current practice of a specific algorithm of de-escalation solely based on the available microbiological data, and highlights the barriers to using it more widely. In this setting, de-escalation was less likely to occur in the presence of potentially multiresistant pathogens. Prior antibiotic administration and the low use of bronchoscopic techniques may have influenced negatively the implementation of de-escalation. Optimization of de-escalation strategies for NP should rely on a correct choice of empiric antibiotics, on appropriate microbiological investigations, and on a balanced interpretation of microbiological and clinical data.
Helicobacter pylori infection is not associated with an increased hemorrhagic risk in patients in the intensive care unit
Authors: Robert René , Gissot Valérie , Pierrot Marc , Laksiri Leila , Mercier Emmanuelle , Prat Gwenael , Villers Daniel , Vincent Jean-François , Hira Michel , Vignon Philippe , Charlot Patrick , Burucoa Christophe
Published: May 2006

Introduction

The potential role of Helicobacter pylori in acute stress ulcer in patients in an intensive care unit (ICU) is controversial. The aim of this study was to determine the frequency of H. pylori infection in ICU patients by antigen detection on rectal swabs, and to analyze the potential relationship between the presence of H. pylori and the risk of digestive gastrointestinal bleeding.

Methods

In this prospective, multicenter, epidemiological study, the inclusion criteria were as follows: patients admitted to the 12 participating ICU for at least two days, who were free of hemorrhagic shock and did not receive more than four units of red blood cells during the day before or the first 48 hours after admission to the ICU. Rectal swabs were obtained within the first 24 hours of admission to the ICU and were tested for H. pylori antigens with the ImmunoCard STAT! HpSA kit. The following events were analyzed according to H. pylori status: gastrointestinal bleeding, unexplained decline in hematocrit, and the number of red cell transfusions.

Results

The study involved 1,776 patients. Forty-nine patients (2.8%) had clinical evidence of upper digestive bleeding. Esophagogastroduodenoscopy was performed in 7.6% of patients. Five hundred patients (28.2%) required blood transfusion. H. pylori antigen was detected in 6.3% of patients (95% confidence interval 5.2 to 7.5). H. pylori antigen positivity was associated with female sex (p < 0.05) and with a higher Simplified Acute Physiology Score II (SAPS II; p < 0.05). H. pylori antigen status was not associated with the use of fiber-optic gastroscopy, the need for red cell transfusions, or the number of red cell units infused.

Conclusion

This large study reported a small percentage of H. pylori infection detected with rectal swab sampling in ICU patients and showed that the patients infected with H. pylori had no additional risk of gastrointestinal bleeding. Thus H. pylori does not seem to have a major role in the pathogenesis of acute stress ulcer in ICU patients.
Stroke Rates and Risk Factors in Patients Treated With Radiation Therapy for Early-Stage Breast Cancer
Authors: Jagsi Reshma , Griffith Kent A. , Koelling Todd , Roberts Rachel , Pierce Lori J.
Published: May 2006

Purpose

To examine whether stroke risk is elevated in American breast cancer patients treated with modern techniques, as well as whether supraclavicular radiation therapy (RT) is associated with increased risk.

Methods

Observed rates of stroke in 820 eligible early-stage breast cancer patients treated at the University of Michigan Hospital (Ann Arbor, MI) were compared with expected rates. Relationships between potential risk factors and actuarial rate of first stroke were analyzed.

Results

Median follow-up was 6.8 years. Twenty patients had at least one cerebrovascular accident (CVA) in follow-up; 35 patients had at least one CVA or transient ischemic attack (CVA/TIA). The standardized incidence ratios were 1.74 (0.94 to 2.37) for CVA and 1.68 (1.003 to 2.06) for CVA/TIA. The absolute excess risk per 1,000 patients per year was 1.67 for CVA and 2.76 for CVA/TIA. On bivariate analysis, factors significantly associated with actuarial rate of first CVA included hypertension (P = .002), age (P < .0001), coronary artery disease (P = .001), atrial fibrillation (P = .009), and supraclavicular RT (P = .021). Factors associated with CVA/TIA were hypertension (P < .001), coronary artery disease (P = .002), and age (P < .0001). Tamoxifen use alone was not significant (P = .19), but tamoxifen combined with baseline hypertension led to increased risk of CVA/TIA (log-rank P < .0001). On multivariate analysis, only age (P < .001) and hypertension (P = .003) remained significant predictors of CVA/TIA. Age was the only significant predictor of CVA alone (P < .001).

Conclusion

American breast cancer survivors may have an elevated risk of stroke compared with the general population, but the absolute excess risk is low. This study found no significant association between supraclavicular RT and stroke after controlling for other factors.
Complete Excision of Primary Breast Tumor Improves Survival of Patients With Metastatic Breast Cancer at Diagnosis
Authors: Rapiti Elisabetta , Verkooijen Helena M. , Vlastos Georges , Fioretta Gerald , Neyroud-Caspar Isabelle , Sappino André Pascal , Chappuis Pierre O. , Bouchardy Christine
Published: May 2006

Purpose

Surgery of the primary tumor usually is not advised for patients with metastatic breast cancer at diagnosis because the disease is considered incurable. In this population-based study, we evaluate the impact of local surgery on survival of patients with metastatic breast cancer at diagnosis.

Methods

We included all 300 metastatic breast cancer patients recorded at the Geneva Cancer Registry between 1977 and 1996. We compared mortality risks from breast cancer between patients who had surgery of the primary breast tumor to those who had not and adjusted these risks for other prognostic factors.

Results

Women who had complete excision of the primary breast tumor with negative surgical margins had a 40% reduced risk of death as a result of breast cancer (multiadjusted hazard ratio [HR], 0.6; 95% CI, 0.4 to 1.0) compared with women who did not have surgery (P = .049). This mortality reduction was not significantly different among patients with different sites of metastasis, but in the stratified analysis the effect was particularly evident for women with bone metastasis only (HR, 0.2; 95% CI, 0.1 to 0.4; P = .001). Survival of women who had surgery with positive surgical margins was not different from that of women who did not have surgery.

Conclusion

Complete surgical excision of the primary tumor improves survival of patients with metastatic breast cancer at diagnosis, particularly among women with only bone metastases.
The Role of Prevention in Oncology Practice: Results From a 2004 Survey of American Society of Clinical Oncology Members
Authors: Ganz Patricia A. , Kwan Lorna , Somerfield Mark R. , Alberts David , Garber Judy E. , Offit Kenneth , Lippman Scott M.
Published: May 2006

Purpose

In 2004, the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) Cancer Prevention Committee surveyed the members to describe involvement in clinical prevention activities.

Methods

A previously administered survey, with updated items on genetics, chemoprevention, and survivorship, was mailed to a stratified random sample of 2,000 domestic members and a convenience sample of 3,144 international members.

Results

A total of 49.7% of domestic members contacted and survey eligible responded (n = 851). Nonresponders were younger (50.5 v 51.7 years; P < .01); 465 international members responded. Overall, 35% had received formal instruction in cancer prevention and control, and most respondents expected increased use of prevention, screening/early detection, and risk reduction/genetic counseling in their practices in the next 5 years. Most reported caring for cancer survivors, including providing general medical care. They also either directly provide or refer patients for cancer prevention and control services (eg, cancer screening, tobacco and nutrition counseling, risk reduction, and chemoprevention). Multivariable modeling found fewer perceived barriers to inclusion of cancer prevention activities in clinical practice among those practicing in an academic setting, seeing a higher proportion of patients without a cancer diagnosis, having formal training in prevention and control, expecting an increase in prevention activities in the next 5 years, and providing community advice on prevention.

Conclusion

Barriers to the inclusion of cancer prevention and control activities in oncology clinical practice exist. Nevertheless, a substantial proportion of both domestic and international ASCO members report an interest in cancer prevention and control activities, with a desire for more specific educational programs in this emerging area of oncology practice.
Informational Texts as Read-Alouds at School and Home
Authors: Yopp Ruth Helen , Yopp Hallie Kay
Published: May 2006

The role of informational text in primary-grade classrooms has been the subject of much discussion in recent years, and there is converging evidence that young school children have few opportunities to engage with this genre. The studies described here expand the research base to include preschool (Study 1) and home (Study 2) exposures to informational text as read-alouds. School data included 1,830 read-aloud titles from 1,144 teachers of preschool through third grade. Home data included 1,847 titles reported by the parents or other family members of 20 kindergartners over the course of a school year. The findings suggest that in both of these environments—school (including preschool) and home—children have far less exposure to informational text than narrative text. Further, a trend was revealed suggesting that boys may be read proportionately more informational texts in their homes than girls.
Children's Choices for Recreational Reading: A Three-Part Investigation of Selection Preferences, Rationales, and Processes
Authors: Mohr Kathleen A. J.
Published: May 2006

This report delineates a three-part investigation into first graders' preferences, selection rationales, and processes when choosing a picture book to own. One-hundred ninety first graders were invited to select their favorite book from among nine high-quality, well-illustrated picture books representing a variety of topics, media, and genres. In addition, 122 students were also interviewed about their selections and how they made their choices. An overwhelming majority of first graders preferred informational books, especially animal books. The finding contradicts much previous research indicating that young readers, particularly girls, favor narrative text. The selection rationales of these students focused on topic or perceived content but were not particularly sophisticated. The selection processes data indicate gender differences, especially related to social aspects of recreational reading and perceived reading ability. The study extends the ongoing professional dialogue related to text preferences for independent, recreational reading and challenges educators to better understand how even very young readers may develop as readers in the postmodern information age.
The Organizers’ Ecology: An Empirical Study of Foreign Banks in Shanghai
Authors: Kuilman Jeroen , Li Jiatao
Published: May 2006

The organizing stages that predate entry into an organizational population were studied from an ecological perspective. Based on a detailed analysis of foreign banks in Shanghai, findings are presented that suggest that the likelihood of moving from the organizing phase to the operational stages is nonmonotonically dependent on the length of the waiting time. We found that firms seeking to gain entry into a population are negatively affected by the presence of other organizers in close geographical proximity, while the number of already-established organizations has an inverted U-shaped relationship with the aspirant’s likelihood of entering a relationship that operates more broadly. After investigating the effect of the geographical location of other potential entrants, as well as the effect of relative sizes and countries of origin, we have drawn inferences about the strength of these competitors’ identities and their impact on a social actor’s decision to enter the population. Our findings are informative not only for those studying organizational founding patterns, but also for those interested in the early process of identity formation.
Acquiring and Applying Knowledge in Transnational Teams: The Roles of Cosmopolitans and Locals
Authors: Haas Martine R.
Published: May 2006

This paper examines the roles of cosmopolitans and locals in transnational teams that work on knowledge-intensive projects. I propose that cosmopolitan and local team members can help their teams to acquire and apply knowledge more effectively, by bringing both internal and external knowledge to their teams and enabling the teams to more successfully transform this knowledge into improved project performance. Findings from a study of 96 project teams at an international development agency reveal that the roles of cosmopolitans and locals were complex and sometimes valuable, but that cosmopolitans offered greater benefits than locals. The study also revealed that too many of each could hurt. Implications for theory and research on international management, virtual teams, exploration and exploitation, and organizational knowledge are discussed.
Manufacturing Relations: An Empirical Study of the Organization of Production Across Multiple Networks
Authors: Lomi Alessandro , Pattison Philippa
Published: May 2006

Organizational communities present two generic features that are recurrently documented in empirical studies, but only imperfectly accounted for in current models of interorganizational relations. The first is the tendency of participant organizations to construct observed macrostructure locally, through relational activities that involve only a small subset of possible network ties. The second is the tendency for different types of ties to overlap, concatenate, and induce a variety of local structures—or relational motifs—across network domains. A critical task in the analysis of organizational communities is to specify appropriate local dependence structures across multiple networks, starting from detailed observation of dyadic interaction among participants. In this paper we illustrate one way in which this analytical task might be accomplished in the context of a study of interorganizational networks. We use data that we have collected on different types of relationships among 106 organizations, located in Southern Italy, involved in the production of means of transportation to test hypotheses about patterns of local network ties and paths across multiple networks. Our empirical analysis is guided by the general claim that the formation of network ties is subject to endogenous and exogenous processes. We specify statistical models for random graphs that allow us to examine this claim, and to formulate and test specific hypotheses about the form that such network-based processes might take. The results that we report provide clear empirical support for the relational motifs implied by our hypotheses. We also find strong empirical support for the proposition that interorganizational dependencies extend across multiple networks.
Social Capital and Organizational Performance: Evidence from Urban Public Schools
Authors: Leana Carrie R. , Pil Frits K.
Published: May 2006

In this paper we examine social capital and its relationship with performance at the organizational level. We predict that both internal and external social capital will have a positive effect on organizational performance. We test our hypotheses in 88 urban public schools where we collected data from principals, teachers, parents, and students. Results indicate that both internal social capital (relations among teachers) and external social capital (relations between the principal and external stakeholders) predict student achievement in mathematics and reading. These effects were sustained over time for reading achievement, providing support for a causal relationship between social capital and performance. We provide evidence that social capital’s impact on student achievement in math—but not reading—is mediated by the quality of instruction provided by teachers. These results underscore the importance of context in studies of social capital.
Mindfulness and the Quality of Organizational Attention
Authors: Weick Karl E. , Sutcliffe Kathleen M.
Published: May 2006

Mindfulness as depicted by Levinthal and Rerup (2006) involves encoding ambiguous outcomes in ways that influence learning, and encoding stimuli in ways that match context with a repertoire of routines. We add to Levinthal and Rerup’s conjectures by examining Western and Eastern versions of mindfulness and how they function as a process of knowing an object. In our expanded view, encoding becomes less central. What becomes more central are activities such as altering the codes, differentiating the codes, introspecting the coding process itself, and, most of all, reducing the overall dependence on coding and codes. Consequently, we shift from Levinthal and Rerup’s contrast between mindful and less mindful to a contrast between conceptual and less conceptual. When people move away from conceptuality and encoding, outcomes are affected more by the quality than by the quantity of attention.
What Do Patients Know And What Do Patients Want?
Authors: Wraight WM , Smith J
Published: May 2006

In the early 1990s cardiothoracic theatre nurses in Oxford formally began to harvest saphenous veins for coronary artery bypass grafting. Since then, the role known as surgical care practitioners (SCPs) at the time of writing has expanded across the country to perform minor and even intermediate operations such as hernia repairs and carpal tunnel decompressions. Significant controversy exists as SCPs fulfil an ever expanding remit2–5 including possible detriment for junior surgeons' training and SCPs' necessity for service provision as well as issues of accountability1 and cost effectiveness. Possible negative effects on general nursing are also noted as experienced nurses are enticed away from existing roles. It seems ward nursing is no longer perceived as a valid ambition in itself.
The politics of evidence and methodology: lessons from the EPPI-Centre
Authors: Oakley Ann , Gough David , Oliver Sandy , Thomas James
Published: May 2006

English

The ‘evidence movement’ poses particular challenges to social science. This article describes and reflects on some of these challenges, using as a case study the development over the period from 1993 of the Evidence for Policy and Practice Information and Coordinating (EPPI-Centre) at the Institute of Education, University of London. The article describes the development of EPPICentre resources for supporting evidence-informed policy in the fields of education and health promotion, and in so doing explores many of the challenges that confront research reviewers in the social sciences. These include technical and methodological issues affecting the quality and reporting of primary research, and the retrieval quality of bibliographic databases; and wider factors such as the culture of academia, and research funding practices that militate against the building of a cumulative evidence base.
Is the evidence-based practice movement doing more good than harm? Reflections on Iain Chalmers’ case for research-based policy making and practice
Authors: Hammersley Martyn
Published: May 2006

English

Powerful voices are currently insisting that policy and practice must be based on research evidence, and that social science inquiry should be reformed in order to serve this need more effectively. An influential figure in the evidence-based practice movement is Sir Iain Chalmers, previously director of the UK Cochrane Centre. Taking evidence-based medicine as his model, he presents the task of research as to determine which policies and practices work. This is to be achieved through the use of randomised controlled trials and systematic reviews of their results. In this article, some of the central assumptions of his case are assessed.
Evidence-based practice in the real world
Authors: Moseley Alice , Tierney Stephanie
Published: May 2006

English

Despite growing awareness of and enthusiasm for evidence-based practice (EBP) among front-line social care staff employed by member agencies of the Centre for Evidence-based Social Services, using evidence in practice is a demanding task. This article highlights some of the challenges to evidence-based practice experienced by those involved in its implementation, which can be characterised as cultural, infrastructural and practical. Despite these hurdles, creative, practical steps have been taken by social care staff to promote EBP within their workplaces, and these are briefly summarised.
Foreign‐grammar acquisition while watching subtitled television programmes
Authors: Van Lommel Sven , Laenen Annouschka , d'Ydewalle Géry
Published: May 2006

Background. Past research has shown that watching a subtitled foreign movie (i.e. foreign language in the soundtrack and native language in the subtitles) leads to considerable foreign‐language vocabulary acquisition; however, acquisition of the grammatical rules has failed to emerge.

Aims. The aim of this study was to obtain evidence for the acquisition of grammatical rules in watching subtitled foreign movies. Given an informal context, younger children were predicted to outperform older children in acquiring a foreign language; however, older children will take more advantage of explicit instruction compared with younger children.

Sample. In Experiment 1, 62 sixth‐graders from a primary school and 47 sixth‐graders from a secondary school volunteered to participate. The participants in Experiment 2 were 94 sixth‐graders from primary schools and 84 sixth‐graders from secondary schools.

Method. The two experiments manipulated the instructions (incidental‐ vs. intentional‐language learning). Moreover, before the experiments began, some participants explicitly received some of the foreign grammatical rules (presented rules), while the movie contained cases of presented rules as well as cases of rules which had to be inferred (not‐presented rules).

Results. Rule acquisition through the movie only was not obtained; there was a strong effect of advance rule presentation but only on the items of presented rules, particularly among the older participants.

Conclusions. Contrary to vocabulary, grammar may be too complicated to acquire from a rather short movie presentation.
Individual differences in children's understanding of inversion and arithmetical skill
Authors: Gilmore Camilla K. , Bryant Peter
Published: May 2006

Background and aims. In order to develop arithmetic expertise, children must understand arithmetic principles, such as the inverse relationship between addition and subtraction, in addition to learning calculation skills. We report two experiments that investigate children's understanding of the principle of inversion and the relationship between their conceptual understanding and arithmetical skills.

Sample. A group of 127 children from primary schools took part in the study. The children were from 2 age groups (6–7 and 8–9 years).

Methods. Children's accuracy on inverse and control problems in a variety of presentation formats and in canonical and non‐canonical forms was measured. Tests of general arithmetic ability were also administered.

Results. Children consistently performed better on inverse than control problems, which indicates that they could make use of the inverse principle. Presentation format affected performance: picture presentation allowed children to apply their conceptual understanding flexibly regardless of the problem type, while word problems restricted their ability to use their conceptual knowledge. Cluster analyses revealed three subgroups with different profiles of conceptual understanding and arithmetical skill. Children in the ‘high ability’ and ‘low ability’ groups showed conceptual understanding that was in‐line with their arithmetical skill, whilst a 3rd group of children had more advanced conceptual understanding than arithmetical skill.

Conclusions. The three subgroups may represent different points along a single developmental path or distinct developmental paths. The discovery of the existence of the three groups has important consequences for education. It demonstrates the importance of considering the pattern of individual children's conceptual understanding and problem‐solving skills.
Evidence for the effectiveness of the Early Literacy Support programme
Authors: Hatcher Peter J. , Goetz Kristina , Snowling Margaret J. , Hulme Charles , Gibbs Simon , Smith Glynnis
Published: May 2006

Background. It is widely recognized that effective interventions for poor reading involve training in phoneme awareness and letter‐sound knowledge, linked in the context of reading books. From the applied perspective, it is important to gather data on the effectiveness of different forms of implementation of literacy support within this framework.

Aim. We evaluate the effectiveness of the UK Early Literacy Support (ELS) programme (Department for Education and Skills [DfES], 2001) relative to a programme of Reading Intervention based on ‘sound linkage’ (Hatcher, Hulme, & Ellis, 1994).

Sample. The sample comprised 128 6‐year‐old children, from 16 primary schools in a Local Education Authority (LEA) in the north of England.

Method. The children were nominated as in need of special help by their class teachers and allocated to one of the two programmes.

Results. After controlling for a difference in spelling ability at the start of the intervention, it was found that both groups of children made equivalent and significant gains in reading and spelling that were maintained at follow‐up. The standardized scores were in the average range. Regression analyses confirmed the importance of initial reading ability as well as letter identification, phoneme manipulation, and sound linkage in predicting progress in learning to read and to spell.

Conclusion. The ELS programme provides a cost effective method of boosting 6‐year‐old children's reading to an average level.
Academic emotions from a social‐cognitive perspective: Antecedents and domain specificity of students' affect in the context of Latin instruction
Authors: Goetz Thomas , Pekrun Reinhard , Hall Nathan , Haag Ludwig
Published: May 2006

This study concentrates on two assumptions of a social‐cognitive model outlining the development of academic emotions (emotions directly linked to learning, classroom instruction, and achievement), namely on their antecedents and domain‐specific organization. Our sample consisted of 200 students from Grades 7 to 10. Proposed relationships concerning the antecedents of academic emotions were tested in the context of Latin language instruction. Correlational analyses substantiated our assumptions concerning the relationships between academic emotions, students' cognitions, and aspects of the social environment. The mediating mechanisms proposed in the model were also confirmed using linear structural equation modelling. Subjective control‐ and value‐related cognitions were found to mediate the relationship between aspects of the social environment and students' emotional experience. Our results further suggest that academic emotions are largely organized along domain‐specific lines, with the degree of domain specificity varying according to the emotion in question. Implications for research and practice are discussed.
The functional and developmental organization of cognitive developmental sequences
Authors: Demetriou Andreas , Kyriakides Leonidas
Published: May 2006

This study examines the organization and development of 5 domains of reasoning (categorical, quantitative, spatial, causal, and propositional) and the construct validity of a test designed to measure development from early adolescence to early adulthood. The theory underlying the test is first summarized and the conceptual design of the test is then illustrated. Each domain was addressed by tasks tapping abilities known to be acquired in this age period. The test was administered to 629 adolescents ranging in age from 12 to 18 years. Confirmatory factor analysis validated the 5 domains of reasoning and revealed a common factor underlying all domains. The Rasch model was used to scale the items and specify the reliability of the test across the whole sample and within different groups of participants (female, male, students of gymnasium, and students of lyceum). This model showed that the test is highly reliable and invariant across groups. Cluster analysis and the saltus model were applied to uncover successive developmental stage‐like levels of difficulty and showed the presence of five such levels. The procedural and representational characteristics of these levels were also specified and their implications for developmental and cognitive theory were discussed.
Observation of children with attention‐deficit hyperactivity (ADHD) problems in three natural classroom contexts
Authors: Lauth G. W. , Heubeck B. G. , Mackowiak K.
Published: May 2006

Background. Observation studies of students with attention‐deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) problems in natural classroom situations are costly and relatively rare.

Aims. The study enquired how teacher ratings are anchored in actual student classroom behaviours, and how the behaviour of children with ADHD problems differs from their classmates. The authors attempted to broaden the usual focus on disruptive and inattentive behaviours to elucidate the role of various on‐task behaviours, as well as considering differences between classroom contexts.

Sample. DSM‐III‐R criteria were used in conjunction with a teacher rating scale to select a sample of 55 students with ADHD problems, and 55 matched controls from a population of 569 primary school students.

Method. Students were observed in their natural classrooms using the Munich Observation of Attention Inventory (MAI; Helmke, 1988). Correlations between teacher reports and observation codes were computed, and systematic differences between students with ADHD problems and controls in different classroom contexts were examined using a generalized linear mixed model (GLMM).

Results. Global teacher reports showed moderate to strong correlations with observed student behaviours. Expected on‐task behaviour demonstrated the strongest relationship (r >−.70) with teacher reports. As hypothesized, the children with ADHD were more disruptive and inattentive than their matched peers. They were also less often inconspicuous on‐task as expected by their teachers. However, their behaviour was assigned to two other on‐task categories more often than their peers, and this raised their total on‐task behaviour to over 66%. Situational differences were found for all codes as well, which mostly affected all students in a similar way, not just students with ADHD.

Conclusions. ADHD related behaviours are pervasive across the classroom situations coded. Teachers appear to distinguish between desirable and undesirable on‐task behaviours. Nevertheless, assisting students with ADHD problems requires shaping both. Future studies need to include more differentiated codes for various types of on‐task behaviours and also need to code the lesson context concurrently.