bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analysis of Relative Humidity Sensors at the WMO Radiosonde Intercomparison Experiment in Brazil
Authors: Sapucci Luiz F. , Machado Luiz A. T. , da Silveira Reinaldo B. , Fisch Gilberto , Monico João F. G.
Published: July 2005

The quality of the vertical distribution measurements of humidity in the atmosphere is very important in meteorology due to the crucial role that water vapor plays in the earth’s energy budget. The radiosonde is the humidity measurement device that provides the best vertical resolution. Also, radiosondes are the operational devices that are used to measure the vertical profile of atmospheric water vapor. The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) has carried out several intercomparison experiments at different climatic zones in order to identify the differences between the available commercial sensors. This article presents the results of an experiment that was carried out in Brazil in 2001 in which major commercial radiosonde manufacturers [e.g., Graw Radiosondes GmbH & Co., KG (Germany); MODEM (France); InterMet Systems (United States); Sippican, Inc. (United States); and Vaisala (Finland)] were involved. One of the main goals of this experiment was to evaluate the performance of the different humidity sensors in a tropical region. This evaluation was performed for different atmospheric layers and distinct periods of the day. It also considers the computation of the integrated water vapor (IWV). The results showed that the humidity measurements achieved by the different sensors were quite similar in the low troposphere (the bias median value regarding the RS80 was around 1.8%) and were quite dispersed in the superior layers (the median rms regarding the RS80 was around 14.9%).
Scanning Eye-Safe Elastic Backscatter Lidar at 1.54 μm
Authors: Spuler Scott M. , Mayor Shane D.
Published: July 2005

A field-deployable scanning direct-detection elastic backscatter lidar system that is eye safe at all ranges is presented. The first two-dimensional spatial images created by scanning this new 1.54-μm wavelength system, and time-lapse animations (viewable in the online version of this article) of those spatial images, are shown. The system has a useful range from approximately 500 m to several kilometers or more (depending on weather conditions) with 3-m range resolution. The time-lapse animations reveal the advection of the macroscopic structure of aerosol scattering due to atmospheric motion. The images and animations are ideal for the location of sources of pollutants and their dispersal and the elucidation of structure in the cloud-free atmosphere. Most importantly, the data presented were collected in a populated area, which would have not been possible with a non-eye-safe system.
Chinese culture, social work education and research
Authors: Chan Ko Ling , Chan Cecilia L.W.
Published: July 2005

English

In the development of indigenous social work knowledge in China, the power relationship between teacher and student can act as a barrier to the development of scientific knowledge and practice research. Social work education and practice research in Chinese societies should focus on the empowerment of social work students, methodological pluralism and the development of a culturally specific practice research model.

French

Dans le développement des connaissances en travail social indigène en Chine, le rapport de pouvoir entre professeur et étudiant peut agir en tant que barrière au développement de la connaissance scientifique et de la recherche en matière de la pratique. La formation et la recherche en travail social dans les sociétés chinoises devraient se concentrer sur l'empowerment des étudiants, la pluralité des méthodologies et le développement d'un modèle de recherche en matière de la pratique qui sera spécifique à la culture chinoise.

Spanish

En el desarrollo del saber indígena del trabajo social en la China, la relación de poder entre profesor y estudiante puede actuar como impedimento al desarrollo de la ciencia y de la práctica. La educación de trabajadores sociales y la práctica de investigación en las sociedades chinas deben ceñirse a conferir poder a los estudiantes, a promover el pluralismo metodológico, y a desarrollar un modelo de investigación culturalmente específico.
Western model, Eastern context
Authors: Kung Winnie W.
Published: July 2005

English

Family intervention for patients with schizophrenia in China is discussed in a sociocultural context. Caregivers face additional burdens due to the centrality of the family and impoverished mental health services. Suggestions to improve treatment include strengthening working alliances between professionals and caregivers and addressing needs at different stages of the illness.

French

L'intervention de famille auprès des patients ayant la schizophrénie en Chine est discutée dans un contexte culturel. Les aidants font face à des fardeaux additionnels dus à l'importance centrale de la famille ainsi qu'à l'appauvrissement des services de santé mentale. Quelques suggestions pour améliorer l'intervention comprennent: le renforcement des alliances entre les professionnels et les aidants; et la nécessité de répondre aux besoins à différentes étapes de la maladie.

Spanish

Se estudian aquí dentro de su contexto sociocultural algunas intervenciones terapéuticas en familias de pacientes chinos diagnosticados con esquizofrenia. Los cuidadores asumen cargas adicionales debidas, primero, a la importancia que se otorga a la familia, y, segundo, a la escasez de servicios de salud mental. Entre las sugerencias para mejorar el tratamiento se incluyen el fortalecimiento de las alianzaas entre los profesionales y los cuidadores, y el bregar con las necesidades que surgen en las diferentes etapas de la enfermedad.
Unraveling the rationale for a one-stop service under the Family and Child Protection Services Units in Hong Kong
Authors: Chan Y. C. , Lam Gladys L.T.
Published: July 2005

English

This article examines issues associated with the reorganized Family and Child Protection Services Units in Hong Kong, arguing that wife abuse problems are degenderized and marginalized in this initiative. It points out that the multi-agency approach is the basis for providing a one-stop service for victims of domestic violence.

French

Cet article examine des questions associées à la nouvelle réorganisation des unités de services pour la protection de l'enfance et de la famille à Hong Kong. Les questions liées aux abus envers les conjointes ont principalement fait l'objet de débats, les arguments présentés exprimant une marginalisation et une désexualisation du problème de violence conjugale découlant de cette initiative. Il est noté qu'une approche de type multi-agences se trouve à la';base d'un service `à guichet unique' offert aux victimes de violence domestique.

Spanish

Se examinan los asuntos asociados con la nueva reorganización de las Unidades de Servicios de Protección a la Familia y al Niño en Hong Kong. Se arguye que con esta iniciativa el problema del maltrato de la mujer se marginaliza y se `des-genera'. Se señala que la agencia múltiple es la base para abordad el problema de la violencia doméstica.
Supportive services for immigrant youths in Hong Kong
Authors: Lo T. Wing , Wong Dennis S.W. , Ma Stephen K.
Published: July 2005

English

Programmes for disadvantaged youths have become a priority of the youth centres in Hong Kong. This article introduces the psychosocial problems encountered by immigrant youths and the kinds of supportive services provided to them. It concludes that they are satisfied with the services and have also experienced personal growth.

French

Des programmes visant les jeunes désavantagés sont devenus prioritaires pour les centres de jeunesse à Hong Kong. Cet article décrit les problèmes psychosociaux vécus par des jeunes immigrants et les types de services de soutien qui leur sont destinés. Il constate la satisfaction de ces jeunes des services reçus, ceux-ci ayant contribué à leur développement personnel.

Spanish

Los programas para jóvenes en desventaja han llegado a ser una prioridad en los centros juveniles de Hong Kong. Este arti¨culo aborda los problemas psicosociales detectados entre los jóvenes inmigrantes y el tipo de servicios de apoyo que se les han brindado. Se concluye que esta¨n satisfechos con dichos servicios y que incluso han experimentado un crecimiento personal.
Job stress, perceived inequity and burnout among school social workers in Hong Kong
Authors: Tam Tony S.K. , Mong Lilian P.K.
Published: July 2005

English

Job stress and perceived inequity are revealed as correlates of burnout among school social workers in Hong Kong. The findings do not support the expectation that burnout is general, in spite of the government’s reforms in the social welfare services. A sense of personal accomplishment may serve as a mediator. However, the respondents suffer from role strain and identity confusion due to lack of communication among schools authorities, students and parents.

French

Cet article décrit comment la conjugaison du stress au travail et inéquités perçues sont liées au `burnout' chez les travailleurs sociaux en milieu scolaire à Hong Kong. Les résultats ne semblent pas confirmer la croyance que le `burnout' existe de façon généralisée malgré les changements observables introduits par le gouvernement en vue d'améliorer l'efficacité des coûts des services de bien-être social. Un sentiment d'accomplissement personnel sert possiblement de médiation efficace. Les répondants souffrent néanmoins de tensions face à leur rôle et de confusion identitaire dues à l'incompréhension du rôle du travailleur social scolaire par les autorités scolaires, les étudiants et les parents.

Spanish

Este trabajo describe el agotamiento en el trabajo y la percepción de inequidad como correlatos del descontento entre los trabajadores sociales de la escuela en Hong Kong. Los hallazgos no parecen apoyar la expectativa de que el descontento exista como patrón general a pesar de los cambios observables introducidos por el gobierno en los servicios de bienestar social. Un sentido de realización personal puede servir como ,mediador efectivo. Sin embargo los entre,vistados padecen una tensión de rol y confusión de identidad que proviene de la falta de comunicación entre autoridades de la escuela, los estudiantes y los padres de familia.
Modifications of the Helbing-Molnár-Farkas-Vicsek Social Force Model for Pedestrian Evolution
Authors: Lakoba Taras I. , Kaup D. J. , Finkelstein Neal M.
Published: July 2005

A model of crowd motion that considers each pedestrian as a Newtonian particle subject to both physical and social forces was reported by Helbing, Farkas, and Vicsek in 2000. Subsequent numerical simulations of this model, performed by its authors, showed that it exhibits realistic crowd behavior. In this article, the authors point out that numerical values of certain parameters in that model may produce counterintuitive results when applied to the motion of an isolated pedestrian or a small number of pedestrians. They have considered modifications of the original model, which allow them to use parameter values that, in the aforementioned sense, are more realistic. However, this is achieved by introducing more features and parameters into the original model. These features are described, and some results of the numerical simulations of the modified model are presented. Two major results of their study need to be mentioned. First, they developed an algorithm, based on an explicit numerical integration scheme, which prevents simulated pedestrians from overlapping with one another in physical space. Second, they demonstrated how the form of the social repulsive force between two pedestrians may be deduced from certain measured characteristics of pedestrian flows.
Dynamic Multiplexing and High-Performance Modeling in Distributed Simulation
Authors: Lee Jong S. , Zeigler Bernard P.
Published: July 2005

This article reviews existing message traffic reduction schemes and proposes a dynamic multiplexing approach as an efficient message traffic reduction scheme. This approach is based on a dynamic encoding of the joint output of sender components into a single message and is applicable to a model involving distributed components moving and interacting in multidimensional space by combining with predictive interest-based quantization. This article applies this approach to a projectile/missile application with realistic multidimensional dynamics. The authors investigate the dependence of simulation accuracy and required network bandwidth on the number of active components and basic time granule. Analysis and empirical data clearly indicate the advantages of dynamic multiplexing in saving communication and computation resources in a large-scale distributed system.
From Crayons to Computers
Authors: Altman Micah , MacDonald Karin , McDonald Michael
Published: July 2005

Following the most recent round of redistricting, observers across the political spectrum warned that computing technology had fundamentally changed redistricting, for the worse. They are concerned that computers enable the creation of finely crafted redistricting plans that promote partisan and career goals, to the detriment of electoral competition, and that, ultimately, thwart voters’ ability to express their will through the ballot box. In this article, we provide an overview of the use of computers in redistricting, from the earliest reports of their utilization, through today. We then report responses to our survey of state redistricting authorities’computer use in 1991 and 2001. With these data, we assess the use of computers in redistricting, and the fundamental capabilities of computer redistricting systems.
E-mail Subject Lines and Their Effect on Web Survey Viewing and Response
Authors: Porter Stephen R. , Whitcomb Michael E.
Published: July 2005

This article investigates the effect of e-mail subject lines on survey viewing and survey response. Using two samples of students (low involvement with the survey sponsor and high involvement with the survey sponsor), the authors tested a variety of combinations of subject lines: the reason for the e-mail contact (survey), the sponsor of the e-mail (Liberal Arts University), a plea for help (request for assistance), and a blank subject line. The authors found a modest effect of subject line for the low-involvement sample, with blank subject lines yielding the highest response.
‘Full-timer in a Part-time Job’: Identity Negotiation in Organizational Talk
Authors: SMITHSON Janet
Published: July 2005

In this article I explore the ways in which people talk about part-time work, with a particular focus on links which people make between working time, gender and professional identity. I investigate how women and men working part-time in financial sector organizations talk about their career, and their orientations to paid and unpaid work, and also how colleagues of these people talk about them. The analysis shows the links which participants routinely make between full-time work, professional commitment and gender. I demonstrate the ways in which participants negotiate with difficulty the category of ‘part-timer’, and in particular the problematic use of this category for men. The constructions of work, time and gender raised by the researchers are compared with the way participants themselves orient to categories, and implications for the research interview context are considered.
When Collective- and Self-Efficacy Affect Team Performance
Authors: Katz-Navon Tal Y. , Erez Miriam
Published: July 2005

The study examined task interdependence as a structural factor, which influences the emergence of collective-efficacy versus self-efficacy as a team-level construct. It tested for the differential effects of self- and collective-efficacy on team performance and the effects of initial perceptions of self- and collective-efficacy and record of past performance on the development of their subsequent perceptions. Results of a laboratory study demonstrated that collective-efficacy solidified as a meaningful team construct and influenced team performance only when a highly interdependent task required team members to closely interact and coordinate their efforts. Under conditions of low task interdependence, collective-efficacy had no basis from which to emerge as a higher level team characteristic and no significance in what is, in essence, individual performances. In contrast, self-efficacy emerged as a meaningful construct that explained individual performance under low task interdependence conditions.
Sleep Disturbance and Depression as Barriers to Adherence
Authors: Phillips Kenneth D. , Moneyham Linda , Murdaugh Carolyn , Boyd Mary R. , Tavakoli Abbas , Jackson Kirby , Vyavaharkar Medha
Published: July 2005

This study examined the relationships among subjective sleep disturbance, depressive symptoms, and adherence to medications among HIV-infected women. HIV-infected women ( N = 173) were recruited through community AIDS service organizations throughout South Carolina. Participants completed the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), the Centers for Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale (CES-D), and a modified version of the Adults AIDS Clinical Trials Group Adherence Baseline Questionnaire. Women who reported greater sleep disturbance also reported a higher level of depressive symptoms and reported poor adherence to their medication regimen. Depression helped to explain the relationship between sleep quality and adherence. Results indicate that assessment and management of sleep disturbance and depressive symptoms in women with HIV disease is important to promote medication adherence.
Finnish youth cultural research and its relevance to youth policy
Authors: Hoikkala Tommi , Suurpää Leena
Published: July 2005

This article intends to outline major characteristics, theoretical and empirical traditions, and ideologies and discourses related to Finnish youth cultural research. Historically speaking, the cultural socialization of the young Finnish nation after independence was a very special national project: ‘young’ citizens were socialized in a patronizing and enlightening manner to become true and loyal Finns. Diverse popular and youth cultural phenomena have formed a central pillar in the formulation of Finnishness and the national identity of Finnish youth. Also academic interest in popular cultures arose rather early. In this article, Finnish youth cultural research is described along two orientations, namely socio-politically orientated youth studies and more (post-)structurally orientated cultural studies. It is argued that the distinguishing feature of the Finnish youth research field is its somewhat ambivalent status in the crossroads between these two orientations. The article also analyses the complex role of youth researchers as political actors, and emphasizes that one of the special features of Finnish youth research is its close connection with those active in the field of youth policy.
Race, Class, Gender
Authors: Knapp Gudrun-Axeli
Published: July 2005

The article focuses on the temporal and epistemic economy connected to the transatlantic travels of the categorical triad of ‘race-class-gender’. It looks at conditions and forces that have fuelled the dynamics of the discourse on differences and inequality among women and analyses feminist discourse and its aporias as a particular environment for the travels of theories. Furthermore, it follows the changes the triad of ‘race-class-gender’ undergoes on its transatlantic route from the United States to a German-speaking context and it outlines the theoretical challenges connected to an intersectional perspective that aims to overcome a theoretical stagnation that itself finds symptomatic expression in the ritual citing of ‘race-class-gender’.
Feeling Gender Speak
Authors: Nencel Lorraine
Published: July 2005

This article discusses a dimension of fieldwork methodology often overlooked. It concerns the act of feeling (inferences) and how this subjective ability contributes to understanding cultural meanings, which are unspoken or encoded in dialogue, but remain unarticulated. The discovery of this dimension in fieldwork eventually brought several epistemological principles into question pertaining to power and intersubjectivity subscribed to in a feminist or critical anthropology. Simultaneously, the use of this dimension in fieldwork gave insight into the relational construction of gender identity - the author’s own, that of the women and a male assistant. The article illustrates this by reconstructing different ethnographic moments during fieldwork practice. Moreover, it aims to put these theoretical assertions into practice by presenting an ethnographic narrative intended to evoke meanings that contribute to feeling the construction of identity through interaction in fieldwork practice.
Sovereignty, biopolitics and the local government of crime in Britain
Authors: Stenson Kevin
Published: July 2005

Fears about macro-level crime join those about local volume crime, inter-communal conflicts and governance emerging to manage them, presenting challenges for analysing commonalities and differences at various spatial levels. Governance theories crystallize in debates about security. Realist governmentality theory transcends discourse analysis of mentalities of government, and a focus on security, arguing that security practices manifest the struggle by local state institutions for sovereign control over populations and territories (biopolitics). Illustrated by rural and urban examples of biopolitical struggles, this highlights interaction between official and informal biopolitics, the latter involving communal groups attempting to govern from below. This creates tensions between universalistic/liberal, and particularistic, nationalist agendas, and also the recognition of multi-cultural, communal identities and interests.
Graduating from the Child Welfare System
Authors: Mendes Philip
Published: July 2005

Summary: Historically, insufficient resources and assistance have been provided to young people leaving state care. This article provides a case study of the campaign for leaving care services in Victoria.

Findings: Young people leaving care experience homelessness, early parenthood, loneliness, depression, poverty, and involvement with the juvenile justice system. Attention is drawn to the key arguments for after-care supports for young people leaving care, the consumer and provider lobby groups that have driven the policy debate, the outcomes of existing services, and the barriers (particularly in Australia) to the creation of effective services.

Applications: Supports and services that are needed to ensure improved outcomes for care leavers are identified. These include the provision of stable and supportive placements with a positive attitude to education, maintenance of links with either family members or community supports, a flexible and functional process for graduating from dependence to interdependence, the active involvement of young people in the leaving care planning and decision-making process, the availability of a range of accommodation options, and ongoing support as required.
Differential effect of agonistic anti-CD40 on human mature and immature dendritic cells: the Janus face of anti-CD40
Authors: de Goër de Herve Marie-Ghislaine , Durali Deniz , Tran Tú-Anh , Maigné Gwénola , Simonetta Federico , Leclerc Philippe , Delfraissy Jean-François , Taoufik Yassine
Published: July 2005

Agonistic monoclonal antibodies to CD40 (CD40 mAbs) have a puzzling dual therapeutic effect in experimental animal models. CD40 mAbs induce tumor regression by potentiating antitumoral T-cell responses, yet they also have immunosuppressive activity in chronic autoimmune inflammatory processes. CD40 mAbs are thought to act on antigen presentation by dendritic cells (DCs) to T cells. DCs can be distinguished as either immature or mature by their phenotype and their ability to generate an effective T-cell response. Here we found that, on human cells, although anti-CD40 led immature DCs to mature and became immunogenic, it also reduced the capacity of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α)-matured DCs to generate a specific CD4 T-cell response. This inhibitory effect was related to rapid and selective apoptosis of mature DCs. Anti-CD40-mediated apoptosis was due to an indirect mechanism involving cooperation with the death domain-associated receptor Fas, leading to activation of Fas-associated death domain protein (FADD) and caspase-8. On human cells, CD40 activation by such agonists could, therefore, trigger immune responses to antigens presented by immature DCs, which are otherwise nonimmunogenic, by inducing maturation. On the other hand, anti-CD40 mAbs, by rapidly inducing apoptosis, may reduce the capacity of inflammatory signal-matured immunogenic DCs to generate an effective T-cell response. These results call for caution in CD40 mAb-based immunotherapy strategies. (Blood. 2005;106:2806-2814)
Fli1, Elf1, and Ets1 regulate the proximal promoter of the LMO2 gene in endothelial cells
Authors: Landry Josette-Renée , Kinston Sarah , Knezevic Kathy , Donaldson Ian J. , Green Anthony R. , Göttgens Berthold
Published: July 2005

Transcriptional control has been identified as a key mechanism regulating the formation and subsequent behavior of hematopoietic stem cells. We have used a comparative genomics approach to identify transcriptional regulatory elements of the LMO2 gene, a transcriptional cofactor originally identified through its involvement in T-cell leukemia and subsequently shown to be critical for normal hematopoietic and endothelial development. Of the 2 previously characterized LMO2 promoters, the second (proximal) promoter was highly conserved in vertebrates ranging from mammals to fish. Real-time reverse transcriptase–polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) expression analysis identified this promoter as the predominant source of transcription in hematopoietic tissue. Transient and stable transfections indicated that the proximal promoter was active in hematopoietic progenitor and endothelial cell lines and this activity was shown to depend on 3 conserved Ets sites that were bound in vivo by E74-like factor 1 (Elf1), Friend leukemia integration 1 (Fli1), and erythroblastosis virus oncogene homolog E twenty-six–1 (Ets1). Finally, transgenic analysis demonstrated that the LMO2 proximal promoter is sufficient for expression in endothelial cells in vivo. No hematopoietic expression was observed, indicating that additional enhancers are required to mediate transcription from the proximal promoter in hematopoietic cells. Together, these results suggest that the conserved proximal promoter is central to LMO2 transcription in hematopoietic and endothelial cells, where it is regulated by Ets factors.
Creation of tolerogenic human dendritic cells via intracellular CTLA4: a novel strategy with potential in clinical immunosuppression
Authors: Tan Peng H. , Yates John B. , Xue Shao-An , Chan Cliburn , Jordan William J. , Harper Jennifer E. , Watson Martin P. , Dong Rong , Ritter Mary A. , Lechler Robert I. , Lombardi Giovanna , George Andrew J. T.
Published: July 2005

Activation of T lymphocytes requires the recognition of peptide–major histocompatibility complexes (MHCs) and costimulatory signals provided by antigen-presenting cells (APCs). It has been shown that T-cell activation without costimulation can lead to anergy. In this study, we developed a novel strategy to inhibit expression of B7 molecules (CD80/86) by transfecting APCs with a gene construct encoding a modified cytotoxic T lymphocyte antigen 4 (CTLA4) molecule (CTLA4-KDEL) that is targeted to the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). APCs expressing this construct failed to express CD80/86 on their surface, were unable to stimulate allogeneic and peptide-specific T-cell responses, and induced antigen-specific anergy of the responding T cells. Cells expressing CTLA4-KDEL do not up-regulate the indoleamine 2, 3-dioxygenase enzyme, unlike cells treated with soluble CTLA4-immunoglobin (Ig). This gene-based strategy to knock out surface receptors is an attractive alternative to using immature dendritic cells for preventing transplant rejection and treating of autoimmune diseases.
Characterisation of natural killer cells and CD56+ T-cells in sarcoidosis patients
Authors: Katchar K. , Söderström K. , Wahlstrom J. , Eklund A. , Grunewald J.
Published: July 2005

The aim of the current study was to investigate the frequency, phenotype and functional activity of natural killer (NK) cells and CD56+ T-cells in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid and peripheral blood of patients with pulmonary sarcoidosis when compared with healthy volunteers, using staining with a panel of monoclonal antibodies followed by flow cytometry.

The results revealed that the majority of the lung NK cell subpopulation expressed CD56bright. In contrast, there was a predominant CD56dimsubset in the blood of both patients and healthy controls. Most lung NK cells expressed C-type lectin-like human leukocyte antigen (HLA)-E-specific inhibitory receptor (i.e.CD94/NKG2A), but only a few lung NK cells expressed killer cell immunoglobulin-like inhibitory receptors specific for HLA-A, -B or -C molecules. In addition, a significantly increased number of CD56+ T-cells were observed in the blood of patients when compared with controls. Uponin vitrostimulation, both lung NK and CD56+ T-cells produced considerable amounts of interferon-γ and tumour necrosis factor-α.

Thus, in the lungs of patients with pulmonary sarcoidosis, a distinct phenotype of natural killer cells with the capacity to produce cytokines and actively participate in the T-helper 1-like inflammatory response associated with sarcoidosis was identified.
Operational definitions of asthma in studies on its aetiology
Authors: Pekkanen J. , Sunyer J. , Anto J. M. , Burney P.
Published: July 2005

The most popular way to define asthma based on questionnaires is to use definitions taken from cross-sectional international studies on asthma. These definitions may not, however, be optimal for future studies focusing on risk factors of asthma. The current authors, therefore, compared the performance of different operational definitions of asthma.

The European Community Respiratory Health Study I was a cross-sectional study of 21,924 subjects aged between 25–44 yrs in 18 countries. Operational definitions of asthma compared included different combinations of symptoms of asthma and bronchial hyperresponsiveness. A continuous asthma score, ranging from 0–8, was defined as the sum of positive answers to eight main symptom questions.

There was no threshold in the associations of asthma symptoms with severity or risk factors of asthma, which would have suggested a dichotomous definition of asthma. Using dichotomous definitions requiring the presence of several asthma symptoms strengthened associations with studied risk factors, and also increased the estimated specificity and positive predictive value. Using a continuous asthma score also improved the power of the analyses.

In conclusion, dichotomous definitions of asthma yielding higher odds ratios are achieved by requiring positive responses to several questions on symptoms. However, symptoms of asthma are possibly best analysed as a continuous asthma score.
Death, dying and informatics: misrepresenting religion on MedLine
Authors: Rodríguez del Pozo Pablo , Fins Joseph J
Published: July 2005

Background

The globalization of medical science carries for doctors worldwide a correlative duty to deepen their understanding of patients' cultural contexts and religious backgrounds, in order to satisfy each as a unique individual. To become better informed, practitioners may turn to MedLine, but it is unclear whether the information found there is an accurate representation of culture and religion. To test MedLine's representation of this field, we chose the topic of death and dying in the three major monotheistic religions.

Methods

We searched MedLine using PubMed in order to retrieve and thematically analyze full-length scholarly journal papers or case reports dealing with religious traditions and end-of-life care. Our search consisted of a string of words that included the most common denominations of the three religions, the standard heading terms used by the National Reference Center for Bioethics Literature (NRCBL), and the Medical Subject Headings (MeSH) used by the National Library of Medicine. Eligible articles were limited to English-language papers with an abstract.

Results

We found that while a bibliographic search in MedLine on this topic produced instant results and some valuable literature, the aggregate reflected a selection bias. American writers were over-represented given the global prevalence of these religious traditions. Denominationally affiliated authors predominated in representing the Christian traditions. The Islamic tradition was under-represented.

Conclusion

MedLine's capability to identify the most current, reliable and accurate information about purely scientific topics should not be assumed to be the same case when considering the interface of religion, culture and end-of-life care.
Altered dendritic cell distribution in patients with common variable immunodeficiency
Authors: Viallard Jean-François , Camou Fabrice , André Marc , Liferman François , Moreau Jean-François , Pellegrin Jean-Luc , Blanco Patrick
Published: July 2005

Recent data suggest a critical role for dendritic cells (DCs) in the generation of immunoglobulin-secreting plasma cells. In the work reported herein, we analyzed the frequency of peripheral blood plasmacytoid DCs (pDCs) and myeloid DCs (mDCs) in a cohort of 44 adults with common variable immunodeficiency (CVID) classified according to their CD27 membrane expression status on B cells. A deep alteration in the distribution of DC subsets, especially of pDCs, in the peripheral blood of CVID patients was found. Patients with a reduced number of class-switched CD27+IgD-IgM- memory B cells and patients with granulomatous disease had a dramatic decrease in pDCs (P = 0.00005 and 0.0003 vs controls, respectively) and, to a lesser extent, of mDCs (P = 0.001 and 0.01 vs controls, respectively). In contrast, patients with normal numbers of switched memory B cells had a DC distribution pattern similar to that in controls. Taken together, our results raise the possibility that innate immunity contributes to pathogenesis in CVID.
Early and late skin reactions to radiotherapy for breast cancer and their correlation with radiation-induced DNA damage in lymphocytes
Authors: López Escarlata , Guerrero Rosario , Núñez Maria Isabel , del Moral Rosario , Villalobos Mercedes , Martínez-Galán Joaquina , Valenzuela Maria Teresa , Muñoz-Gámez José Antonio , Oliver Francisco Javier , Martín-Oliva David , de Almodóvar José Mariano Ruiz
Published: July 2005

Introduction

Radiotherapy outcomes might be further improved by a greater understanding of the individual variations in normal tissue reactions that determine tolerance. Most published studies on radiation toxicity have been performed retrospectively. Our prospective study was launched in 1996 to measure the in vitro radiosensitivity of peripheral blood lymphocytes before treatment with radical radiotherapy in patients with breast cancer, and to assess the early and the late radiation skin side effects in the same group of patients. We prospectively recruited consecutive breast cancer patients receiving radiation therapy after breast surgery. To evaluate whether early and late side effects of radiotherapy can be predicted by the assay, a study was conducted of the association between the results of in vitro radiosensitivity tests and acute and late adverse radiation effects.

Methods

Intrinsic molecular radiosensitivity was measured by using an initial radiation-induced DNA damage assay on lymphocytes obtained from breast cancer patients before radiotherapy. Acute reactions were assessed in 108 of these patients on the last treatment day. Late morbidity was assessed after 7 years of follow-up in some of these patients. The Radiation Therapy Oncology Group (RTOG) morbidity score system was used for both assessments.

Results

Radiosensitivity values obtained using the in vitro test showed no relation with the acute or late adverse skin reactions observed. There was no evidence of a relation between acute and late normal tissue reactions assessed in the same patients. A positive relation was found between the treatment volume and both early and late side effects.

Conclusion

After radiation treatment, a number of cells containing major changes can have a long survival and disappear very slowly, becoming a chronic focus of immunological system stimulation. This stimulation can produce, in a stochastic manner, late radiation-related adverse effects of varying severity. Further research is warranted to identify the major determinants of normal tissue radiation response to make it possible to individualize treatments and improve the outcome of radiotherapy in cancer patients.
Quality of interhospital transport of critically ill patients: a prospective audit
Authors: Ligtenberg Jack JM , Arnold L Gert , Stienstra Ymkje , van der Werf Tjip S , Meertens John HJM , Tulleken Jaap E , Zijlstra Jan G
Published: July 2005

Introduction

The aim of transferring a critically ill patient to the intensive care unit (ICU) of a tertiary referral centre is to improve prognosis. The transport itself must be as safe as possible and should not pose additional risks. We performed a prospective audit of the quality of interhospital transports to our university hospital-based medical ICU.

Methods

Transfers were undertaken using standard ambulances. On departure and immediately after arrival, the following data were collected: blood pressure, heart rate, body temperature, oxygen saturation, arterial blood gas analysis, serum lactic acid, plasma haemoglobin concentration, blood glucose, mechanical ventilation settings, use of vasopressor/inotropic drugs, and presence of venous and arterial catheters. Ambulance personnel completed forms describing haemodynamic and ventilatory data during transport. Data were collected by our research nurse and analyzed.

Results

A total of 100 consecutive transfers of ICU patients over a 14-month period were evaluated. Sixty-five per cent of patients were mechanically ventilated; 38% were on vasoactive drugs. Thirty-seven per cent exhibited an increased number of vital variables beyond predefined thresholds after transport compared with before transport; 34% had an equal number; and 29% had a lower number of vital variables beyond thresholds after transport. The distance of transport did not correlate with the condition on arrival. Six patients died within 24 hours after arrival; vital variables in these patients were not significantly different from those in patients who survived the first 24 hours. ICU mortality was 27%. Adverse events occurred in 34% of transfers; in 50% of these transports, pretransport recommendations given by the intensivist of our ICU were ignored. Approximately 30% of events may be attributed to technical problems.

Conclusion

On aggregate, the quality of transport in our catchment area carried out using standard ambulances appeared to be satisfactory. However, examination of the data in greater detail revealed a number of preventable events. Further improvement must be achieved by better communication between referring and receiving hospitals, and by strict adherence to checklists and to published protocols. Patients transported between ICUs are still critically ill and should be treated as such.
Functional analysis of human and chimpanzee promoters
Authors: Heissig Florian , Krause Johannes , Bryk Jaroslaw , Khaitovich Philipp , Enard Wolfgang , Pääbo Svante
Published: July 2005

Background

It has long been argued that changes in gene expression may provide an additional and crucial perspective on the evolutionary differences between humans and chimpanzees. To investigate how often expression differences seen in tissues are caused by sequence differences in the proximal promoters, we tested the expression activity in cultured cells of human and chimpanzee promoters from genes that differ in mRNA expression between human and chimpanzee tissues.

Results

Twelve promoters for which the corresponding gene had been shown to be differentially expressed between humans and chimpanzees in liver or brain were tested. Seven showed a significant difference in activity between the human promoter and the orthologous chimpanzee promoter in at least one of the two cell lines used. However, only three of them showed a difference in the same direction as in the tissues.

Conclusion

Differences in proximal promoter activity are likely to be common between humans and chimpanzees, but are not linked in a simple fashion to gene-expression levels in tissues. This suggests that several genetic differences between humans and chimpanzees might be responsible for a single expression difference and thus that relevant expression differences between humans and chimpanzees will be difficult to predict from cell culture experiments or DNA sequences.
Validation and refinement of gene-regulatory pathways on a network of physical interactions
Authors: Yeang Chen-Hsiang , Mak H Craig , McCuine Scott , Workman Christopher , Jaakkola Tommi , Ideker Trey
Published: July 2005

As genome-scale measurements lead to increasingly complex models of gene regulation, systematic approaches are needed to validate and refine these models. Towards this goal, we describe an automated procedure for prioritizing genetic perturbations in order to discriminate optimally between alternative models of a gene-regulatory network. Using this procedure, we evaluate 38 candidate regulatory networks in yeast and perform four high-priority gene knockout experiments. The refined networks support previously unknown regulatory mechanisms downstream of SOK2 and SWI4.
‘When we cannot act as we wish, we must act as we can’
Authors: Sarra Nicholas
Published: July 2005

The NHS is an organisation populated by groups who often compete with each other over sparse resources and avenues of influence. Professional rivalry is endemic in this situation as groups position themselves to acquire, consolidate and protect professional territory.
Management of drug misuse in pregnancy
Authors: Day Ed , George Sanju
Published: July 2005

Use of both licit and illicit drugs can lead to a range of medical, psychiatric and social problems, and the situation becomes further complicated if the user is pregnant. Prescribed and non-prescribed substances can affect a pregnancy, and substances are seldom used in isolation. In this review we focus on users of illicit drugs (including prescribed drugs used illicitly) during pregnancy and describe some of the issues in managing such cases. We consider the impact of subtance use on the foetus, the mother and the newborn child, and highlight the importance of multidisciplinary working in this area. Space precludes a detailed account of the issues surrounding the use of legal substances such as alcohol and tobacco during pregnancy, but we note their significant impact in this group.
Foot and mouth outbreak: lessons for mental health services
Authors: Peck David F.
Published: July 2005

The 2001 foot and mouth disease outbreak in the UK was widespread and devastating. Some areas (e.g. Cumbria) were very badly hit, but all farmers were affected to some degree. Huge numbers of animals, infected and healthy, were slaughtered. Tourism was badly affected. Data from three systematic studies found elevated levels of psychological morbidity among farmers and other rural workers, especially those directly affected. Most farmers turned to family and friends (and veterinary surgeons) for support; relatively few approached health or social services, mainly because they did not see their reactions as illness. Many farmers and other rural workers prefer to use supports within their own community, or anonymous supports such as self-help materials or computer-based treatments. Mental health services should take account of these preferences by adopting an educational and consultative role in any similar outbreak.
Treatment of psychosis in elderly people
Authors: Karim Salman , Byrne Eleanor J.
Published: July 2005

Psychotic symptoms in elderly people can be seen in a variety of conditions. This article reviews treatment strategies (both pharmacological and non-pharmacological) for such symptoms in schizophrenia and neurodegenerative disorders in this population. Traditionally, antipsychotics have been the most commonly used treatment for psychotic symptoms. Their usefulness in treating schizophrenia, both chronic and late onset, is well established and the atypical antipsychotics, which have a better side-effect profile, are more suitable for elderly people. More recently, there have been increasing concerns about their safety in psychoses due to dementia. The debate about whether an absolute ban on their use is required is still ongoing, but it has highlighted the need for adopting and developing non-pharmacological interventions.
Carers as partners in mental health services for older people
Authors: Oyebode Jan R.
Published: July 2005

The role that carers play in supporting older people with mental health needs in the community is well recognised by professionals and in current government policy. This article promotes the view that a systematic planned approach that engages the carer as an integral part of the system of care has potential benefits for patients, carers and services. Ways of working in partnership are outlined and evidence that psychosocial interventions with carers are effective is briefly reviewed. Examples of individual and group interventions for dementia carers are given, drawing on clinical experience and research literature. Areas for further development are highlighted, including greater partnerships with carers in primary and continuing care, as well as at the level of planning and service development.
Integrating mental health in global initiatives for HIV/AIDS
Authors: Freeman Melvyn C. , Patel Vikram , Collins Pamela Y. , Bertolote Jose M.
Published: July 2005

A more prominent role is needed for mental health interventions in global HIV/AIDS initiatives – such as the World Health Organization ‘3 by 5’ Initiative. Significant numbers of infected people have, or develop, mental health problems, and this often adversely impacts on HIV/AIDS treatment and adherence. Integrating psychiatric and psychosocial interventions should benefit both the mental and the physical health of people living with HIV/AIDS.
Autism: Functional brain mapping of exceptional calendar capacity
Authors: Boddaert Nathalie , Barthélémy Catherine , Poline Jean-Baptiste , Samson Yves , Brunelle Francis , Zilbovicius Mônica
Published: July 2005

Background

‘Autistic savants' are individuals with autism who have extraordinary skills. Brain mechanisms underlying such capacities are still unknown.

Aims

To map the exceptional calendar capacity of a man with primary autism.

Method

Positron emission tomography was used to map brain activity in a man who is able to associate a day of the week with the corresponding calendar date.

Results

During the calendar task, the left hippocampus, the left frontal cortex and the left middle temporal lobe were activated.

Conclusions

The cerebral circuit involved in this man's prodigious calendar skill is similar to that normally involved in memory retrieval tasks. These results suggest that the prodigious capacities may be sustained by memory processing.