bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Basic pathology
Authors: Carton James
Published: July 2012

Pathological terminology 2

Cellular adaptations 3

Cellular death 4

Inflammation & healing 5

Innate immunity 6

Adaptive immunity 8

Hypersensitivity reactions 10

Neoplasia 11

Carcinogenesis 12

•Aetiology refers to a disease's underlying cause. Diseases whose
aetiology is unknown are described as idiopathic, cryptogenic, or
...
Infectious diseases
Authors: Carton James
Published: July 2012

Microbes 16

Antimicrobial agents 17

Human immunodeficiency virus 18

Tuberculosis 20

Infectious mononucleosis 21

Malaria 22

Syphilis 24

Lyme disease 25

Leishmaniasis 26

• Single-celled organisms with their double-stranded
DNA lying free in cytoplasm surrounded by a cell membrane and cell wall.

• Most grow in air (aerobes), but can grow without
it (facultative anaerobes). Some only grow in the absence of oxygen (strict
anaerobes)....
Breast pathology
Authors: Carton James
Published: July 2012

Duct ectasia 216

Acute mastitis 217

Fat necrosis 218

Fibrocystic change 219

Fibroadenoma 220

Intraductal papilloma 222

Radial scar 223

Proliferative breast diseases 224

Ductal carcinoma in situ225

Invasive breast carcinomas 226

Breast screening 228

Male breast diseases 229

• Inflammation and dilation of large breast
ducts....
The power of their voices: assessing the child and family
Authors: Contro Nancy , Scofield Sarah
Published: July 2012

In this chapter we shall examine the assessment of the child and family using a two-tiered approach. First, we shall examine the necessary fundamentals of assessment and identify how various concepts apply through case discussion. We shall then review and integrate data from a large-scale study of needs assessment of bereaved families that identified critical components of assessment and quality care.
Impact on the family
Authors: Lapwood Susie , Goldman Ann
Published: July 2012

When a child is diagnosed with a life-limiting or life-threatening condition (both of these included as LLC in this chapter), their family is cast into a world that they probably had not previously known exists. A world full of confusion, disbelief, and anguish unfurls — a world where diffi cult decisions regarding care and treatment, and the desperate need for hope, will have to be balanced with the realism of the diagnosis and day-to-day living. In this chapter we focus on the importance of caring for the family of a child with an LLC as a unit, each of the family members being integral to the well-being and care of the others. We have included parents’ narratives with the aim of adding depth to the discussion, and in recognition of the truth of families’ own experiences. We begin by looking at the family, the roles of family members, and family functioning. This is followed by an exploration of the impact of having a child with an LLC, and the final section considers the work of professionals and how to offer effective and timely support and help.
Around the time of death: culture, religion, and ritual
Authors: Brown Erica , Dominica Frances
Published: July 2012

To live through the death of one’s own child is perhaps one of the most painful experiences known to humankind. It is instinctive in parents to nourish and protect their child. Death is to be fought, even to the point of sacrificing their own life. If the fight is lost, life is quite literally beyond control. The death of a child can leave parents feeling helpless, guilty, powerless, and broken. Nothing can take away the pain, but there are small ways in which it can be made a little less appalling. The professional person’s task, particularly towards the end of life, is to ensure that the child is as comfortable as possible and is suffering the minimum of distress, that the child and family are together, in the place they have chosen, and that reassurance and psychological, cultural, and spiritual support are available. The first part of this chapter offers an overview of cultural, ethnic, and religious aspects of death. The second part focuses on practical issues at the time of death and soon afterwards, and the final section contains information about customs relating to death in a number of world religions.
Introduction to pain
Authors: Bioy Antoine , Wood Chantal
Published: July 2012

When caring for a child who is in pain in a palliative care setting, the extent and intensity of the physical components of pain represent only one of many important aspects that need to be considered. How does the child understand their pain? Are they afraid of the actual pain or the future pain? How do they interpret their disease? Can they control or cope with the pain? It is of fundamental importance not only to help the child to cope with their condition, but also to help them through the disease by building a trustworthy and interactive relationship between the patient, their family, and their peers. One must try to carefully monitor the child’s level of distress, their defence strategies, their coping strategies, and the attitudes and opportunities that they encounter in their environment (e.g. encouragement, active participation in activities). All of this takes place within a biopsychosocial and holistic model of care that ‘reflects modern society’s attempt to face up to the reality of death by introducing dying and bereavement into the midstream of life.’ It personalizes care by adopting a relationshipcentred approach and, with the collaboration of all caregivers, it humanizes care. In this chapter we first explore the history of pain in medicine and then develop our actual knowledge about pain. This will enable us to understand the main theories without neglecting two central questions, namely how to deal with paediatric pain and how to engage in a therapeutic relationship with a young patient who is in pain. Finally, we shall establish some guidelines for understanding and analysing the complaint of the child in palliative care.
Management of the gastrointestinal tract in paediatric palliative medicine
Authors: Miller Mike , Karwacki Marek
Published: July 2012

The GI tract is a complex organ that is slow to respond to treatment, and it is the source of much distress from several and varied causes in palliative care. Careful consideration of these, together with a thorough history and observation, should lead to rational, measured, and considered interventions. This chapter covers nausea and vomiting, reflux, constipation, diarrhoea, gut failure, and other symptoms including sialorhea, hiccough, anorexia and cachexia, and haematemesis.
Care in the final hours and days
Authors: Davies Dawn
Published: July 2012

Caring for a child and their family during the last hours and days of the child’s life is emotionally charged, with inherent pressure to ‘get things right.’ Anticipation and treatment of the patient’s changing symptoms are essential in order to stave off emergency situations, or at least be optimally prepared to deal with them. Parents must be actively supported during this time, regardless of setting, and the availability of professional assistance must be continuous, even if this can only be by telephone in some circumstances. Access to emergency medications must be anticipated in this context. Communication must be seamless, and care providers must be prepared for sudden changes in the desired setting of care. It is much easier to plan for every contingency, knowing that some plans will go unused, than to have to cobble together less than optimal arrangements at the last minute.
Research in paediatric palliative care
Authors: Wolfe Joanne , Siden Hal
Published: July 2012

In this chapter we outline why research in PPC is essential, we describe the obstacles to conducting research in children and families affected by life-threatening conditions (LTCs), and we propose strategies for overcoming these obstacles in order to ‘lay the foundation’ of evidence needed to provide scientifically sound PPC. Research in palliative care is necessary for the advancement of the field and for the provision of optimal care for our patients and their loved ones. The significant barriers outlined in this chapter are daunting but not insurmountable. Clinicians are encouraged to engage in systematic, rigorous research efforts to support a more evidence-based approach to PPC. The immense needs of our patients may compel clinicians to implement untried or unsubstantiated approaches and interventions. Although this may prove successful in individual cases, care providers should consider the advantages of more methodical strategies. Evidence-based care is not necessarily insensitive care.
Pharmacology of Neural Blockade
Authors: Duncan Christopher M. , Craigo Paula A.
Published: July 2012

Chapter 2 reviews the mechanism of action for local anesthetics. Clinical features such as potency, onset of action, duration, and dose are discussed. Drug metabolism, toxicity (local and systemic), and its treatment are included. The chapter concludes with additional information on adjuvant medications (eg, epinephrine, clonidine) used to extend or enhance the clinical effects of local anesthetics.
Anatomical Considerations for Peripheral Nerve Blockade
Authors: Hebl James R.
Published: July 2012

Chapter 5 contains a basic review of terminology used to describe body planes, surface orientation, and movements. The anatomy of major nerve plexuses are also examined: brachial plexus, lumbar plexus, lumbosacral plexus. The chapter concludes with a discussion of peripheral nerve anatomy and sensory and motor innervation, including dermatomes, osteotomes, and myotomes.
Sonoanatomy of the Upper and Lower Extremity
Authors: Smith Hugh M.
Published: July 2012

Ultrasound-guided regional anesthesia is the practice of applied anatomy. A detailed knowledge of neuroanatomy and the relationships of nerves to other structures is critical to successfully perform ultrasound-based procedures. In addition to anatomical knowledge, a comprehensive understanding of ultrasound equipment, probe selection, image optimization, and scanning technique is also essential to the proceduralist. Each of these factors is reviewed.
Clinical Applications of Ultrasound-Guided Regional Anesthesia
Authors: Smith Hugh M.
Published: July 2012

Ultrasound-guided regional anesthesia involves six steps: preparation, visualization, approximation, interrogation, deposition, and evaluation. Each step is reviewed in detail. Preparation includes patient positioning, monitor placement, draping, and equipment placement. Visualization involves scanning the anesthesia area to identify relevant anatomy. Approximation is determining how best to approach the target nerve with the needle. Interrogation involves nerve stimulation to determine correct needle placement so that deposition of the anesthetic can take place. Finally, evaluation of the effectiveness of the block allows for rescue options if needed. Clinical pearls and common errors and pitfalls related to ultrasound-guided regional anesthesia are also included.
Cervical Plexus Blockade
Authors: Torsher Laurence C. , Hebl James R.
Published: July 2012

Cervical plexus blockade produces anesthesia of the neck, shoulder, and upper pectoral and occipital regions. Relevant anatomy for this blockade is described. For both deep and superficial blocks, the following topics are reviewed: clinical applications, patient position, needle redirection cues, and side effects and complications.
Fascia Iliaca Blockade
Authors: Jurrens Thomas J. , Hebl James R.
Published: July 2012

Fascia iliaca blockade is used to provide postoperative analgesia in children and adults undergoing proximal lower extremity procedures. The following aspects of the procedure are reviewed: clinical applications, relevant anatomy, patient position, technique (including neural localization techniques, needle insertion site, and needle redirection cues), and side effects and complications. Ultrasound guidance and use of continuous nerve catheters is also discussed.
Sciatic Nerve Blockade
Authors: Jacob Adam K.
Published: July 2012

Sciatic nerve blockade is performed to achieve anesthesia and analgesia of the distal lower extremity, including the anterior and posterolateral leg, ankle, and foot. The following aspects of the procedure are reviewed: clinical applications, relevant anatomy, patient position, technique (including neural localization techniques, needle insertion site, and needle redirection cues), and side effects and complications. Use of ultrasound guidance is also discussed.
Hepatology
Authors: Poterucha John J.
Published: July 2012

The evaluation of patients who have abnormal liver test results includes many clinical factors: the chief complaints of the patient, patient age, risk factors for liver disease, personal or family history of liver disease, medications, and physical examination findings. Because of these many factors, designing a standard algorithm for the evaluation of abnormal liver test results is difficult and often inefficient. Nevertheless, with basic information, abnormalities can be evaluated in an efficient, cost-effective manner. Diseases that predominantly affect the biliary system are called cholestatic diseases. They can affect the microscopic ducts (eg, primary biliary cirrhosis) or the large bile ducts (eg, pancreatic cancer causing obstruction of the common bile duct), or both (eg, primary sclerosing cholangitis).
Malignant Hematology
Authors: Steensma David P.
Published: July 2012

The hematologic neoplasms include lymphoproliferative disorders (eg, chronic lymphocytic leukemia [CLL]/small lymphocytic lymphoma [SLL], large granular lymphocyte leukemia, hairy cell leukemia [HCL], Hodgkin lymphoma, non-Hodgkin lymphoma), plasma cell disorders (multiple myeloma, light chain amyloidosis, Waldenström macroglobulinemia, POEMS syndrome, heavy chain disease, plasmacytoma), chronic myeloid neoplasms (chronic myeloid leukemia, the BCR/ABL-negative myeloproliferative neoplasms, myelodysplastic syndromes), and acute leukemia (acute myeloid leukemia, acute lymphocytic leukemia). In addition, clonal but not overtly malignant conditions are common in the general population, including monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS) and monoclonal B lymphocytosis (MBL).
Specific Microorganisms
Authors: Virk Abinash
Published: July 2012

This chapter approaches the field of infectious diseases from 3 perspectives. This first section reviews the characteristics of specific pathogenic organisms (gram-positive cocci, staphylococci, gram-negative bacilli, gram-positive bacilli, gram-negative cocci, anaerobic bacteria, actinomycetes, mycobacteria, spirochetes, fungi, viruses, etc). Symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment of conditions caused by these organisms are discussed.
Antimicrobials
Authors: Estes Lynn L. , Wilson John W.
Published: July 2012

This chapter approaches the field of infectious diseases from 3 perspectives. This third section reviews antimicrobial agents. The mechanisms of action, spectrums of activity, clinical uses, routes of excretion, and toxic effects of various antimicrobial agents are emphasized. Antibacterials such as penicillins, cephalosporins, carbapenems, aminoglycosides, tetracyclines, and fluoroquinolones are reviewed. Antifungals such as the azoles, polyenes, and echinocandins are also covered. Antivirals such as acyclovir, famciclovir, oseltamivir, and foscarnet are included as well.
Acid-Base and Electrolyte Disorders
Authors: Albright Robert C.
Published: July 2012

The most important principle in understanding disorders of water balance is that sodium balance is determined by the adequacy of the effective circulating volume, while water balance is determined by osmoregulation and the interplay between vasopressin activity, renal concentrating and diluting ability, and thirst. Disorders of sodium balance can be determined only by clinical examination. Orthostatic hypotension implies volume depletion and sodium deficiency. Edema implies volume excess and sodium excess. Potassium is predominantly an intracellular cation. The intracellular balance of potassium is regulated by endogenous factors such as acidemia, sodium, adenosine triphosphatase, insulin, catecholamines, and aldosterone. Clinically, it is absolutely critical to follow a stepwise approach to acid-base disorders. Metabolic acidosis is defined as a primary disturbance in which the retention of acid consumes endogenous alkali stores. This is reflected by a decrease in bicarbonate. Metabolic alkalosis is defined as a primary disturbance in which plasma bicarbonate is increased. The signs and symptoms of metabolic alkalosis include weakness, muscle cramps, hyperreflexia, alveolar hypoventilation, and arrhythmias.
Oncology
Authors: Moynihan Timothy J.
Published: July 2012

Risk factors, screening, diagnosis, staging, and treatment of various types of cancer are reviewed. Breast, cervical, colorectal, lung, and testicular cancers, melanoma, and paraneoplastic disorders are reviewed. Various treatment options, such as chemotherapy and palliative care, are discussed as well.
Women’s Health
Authors: Shuster Lynne T. , Rhodes Deborah J.
Published: July 2012

The science and practice of women's health have evolved considerably during the past 15 years. Increasingly, internal medicine physicians are expected to manage diseases and conditions unique to women (like menstruation, menopause, and pregnancy), more prevalent (contraception, infertility, breast conditions) or more serious in women, or for which risk factors or interventions are different in women than in men (coronary heart disease). Domestic violence issues are also reviewed.
Respiratory Tract Infections
Authors: Wilson John W. , Estes Lynn L.
Published: July 2012

Diagnostic criteria include productive cough, symptoms of upper respiratory infection, and negative findings on chest radiographs. Viral agents are the most common cause; antibiotics are therefore not beneficial.

•Viral causes: Influenza, parainfluenza, and other respiratory viruses affect >70% of patients

•Less common but potentially antibiotic-responsive infectious agents...
Pressure and Its Measurement
Authors: Munis James R.
Published: July 2012

In physiologic terms, we are exposed to 3 main sources of pressure: 1) the weight of the atmosphere; 2) hydrostatic forces exerted by the weight of body fluids; and 3) mechanical pressure generated by the heart or other muscles that contract around those fluids. Because cardiopulmonary physiology deals so much with pressure measurements, let's start by defining what pressure really is. Simply put, pressure is force divided by area. It's also important to understand what pressure is not. For example, pressure is not energy. Only when pressure is coupled to a volume change (ie, movement or pressure-volume work) is it a component of energy. This is more than just a semantic point. Although we're fond of saying that fluids move from high to low pressure, that isn't always true. The reason why highlights a fundamental difference between pressure and energy. Pressure is surprisingly difficult to measure. Often, when we think we are measuring pressure, we are actually measuring stretch or movement.
Pulmonary Function Tests
Authors: Munis James R.
Published: July 2012

Pulmonary function tests (PFTs) sort out the ability of the lungs to ventilate and oxygenate. Perhaps the most useful PFT measures arterial blood gas (ABG). Once we've established that the ABG is normal, it doesn't much matter whether pulmonary function is provided by a machine or is natural, nor do specific respiratory parameters (eg, tidal volume, respiratory rate, flow rate) matter as much as the end result of pulmonary function—the ABGs. The next type of PFT is spirometry, is the measurement of inhaled and exhaled lung gas. The next PFT is the flow-volume loop. Before looking at how the loop changes with pathologic conditions, you should be familiar with the axes of the graph. Note that the horizontal axis is inverted, with high volumes closer to the origin and low volumes further from the origin. Finally, the test measuring diffusing capacity of the lung for carbon monoxide (DLCO) rounds out the list of commonly used PFTs.
Man, Machine, and Homeostasis
Authors: Munis James R.
Published: July 2012

Physiologist Claude Bernard lived in a time when very little was known about the mechanisms underlying physiologic findings, and he had ample access to clues garnered from observing machines. Let's consider homeostasis (a concept championed by Bernard), an example for which an engineered machine shed light on a fundamental principle of physiology. Homeostasis is simply the tendency of the body to maintain important physiologic variables (eg, heart rate, blood pressure, PACO2) at constant, preset values. An example is a simplified mechanical governor that could be used to regulate the rotational speed of a steam engine shaft. ‘Autoregulate’ might be a more apt word because the governor performs without external help or guidance, provided it is designed and built properly. It doesn't take much imagination to see an analogy between the mechanical governor and the autonomic nervous system. Both maintain specific variables at a constant set point through a process of feedback loops.
Health Care–Associated Infection Prevention and Control Programs
Authors: Huskins W. Charles
Published: July 2012

Infectious diseases subspecialists should have basic knowledge of interventions necessary to prevent and control health care–associated infections (HAIs). This chapter reviews key components and activities of HAI prevention and control programs. Subtopics addressed in other chapters include the following: interventions to prevent specific HAIs, such as intravascular catheter–associated bloodstream infections, ventilator-associated pneumonia, urinary catheter–associated urinary tract infections, and surgical site infections.
Borrelia and Leptospira Species
Authors: Mendez Julio C
Published: July 2012

Borrelia species (except Borrelia burgdorferi) cause relapsing fever, which is a zoonosis characterized by cyclic fevers alternating with periods of relative well-being. Endemic or tick-borne relapsing fever is caused by several Borrelia species associated with soft ticks of the genus Ornithodoros. Tick-spirochete specificity is useful for identifying Borrelia species. Epidemic or louse-borne relapsing fever is caused by Borrelia recurrentis.

It is transmitted by the human body louse. Leptospirosis is a zoonosis of global distribution caused by infection with pathogenic spirochetes of the genus Leptospira.

It is greatly underreported, particularly in tropical regions. Leptospirosis is maintained in nature by chronic renal infection of carrier animals that excrete the organism in their urine and contaminate the environment. Human infection occurs after direct contact with infected urine or tissues. Specific conditions related to these infections, their management, and treatment are reviewed.
Tick-Borne Infections
Authors: Wright Alan J
Published: July 2012

Tick-borne infections are very serious illnesses in healthy children and adults. The clinical presentation is often nonspecific and diagnosis is difficult. Clinicians should have a high index of suspicion for tick-borne infections and begin appropriate empirical antibiotic therapy for the best therapeutic outcome. This chapter reviews the 4 most common tick-borne infections in the United States: Lyme disease, ehrlichiosis, babesiosis, and Rocky Mountain spotted fever.
Mycobacteria
Authors: Sia Irene G.
Published: July 2012

Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex is made up of Mycobacterium tuberculosis, Mycobacterium
bovis, Mycobacterium africanum, and Mycobacterium microti.

Humans are the only natural reservoir of M tuberculosis.
Mycobacterium bovis is caused by consumption of unpasteurized milk products from an infected cow. Cattle-to-human transmission also occurs. Patients with tuberculosis (TB) usually present with fever; less commonly, pleuritic chest pain, retrosternal or interscapular pain. Physical examination findings are usually normal. Hilar adenopathy is typical, often resolving in 1 year or more. Disease manifestations of other mycobacterial infection are also reviewed.
Sporothrix schenckii
Authors: Blair Janis E
Published: July 2012

Sporothrix schenckii has a worldwide distribution. The majority of cases of sporotrichosis occur in North America, South America, and Japan. Environmental niches include sphagnum moss, decaying vegetation, soil, and hay. It is a dimorphic fungus that grows as a mold at 37 ° C. The organism causes cutaneous, subcutaneous, and lymphocutaneous infection. It is not associated with systemic symptoms. Diagnosis and treatment are also reviewed.
Infective Endocarditis
Authors: Baddour Larry M. , Uslan Daniel Z.
Published: July 2012

Infective endocarditis (IE) is not commonly seen by primary care physicians. The clinical presentation of patients with endocarditis can be nonspecific and varied. IE can masquerade as other infectious syndromes, particularly at the time of clinical onset. Those with valve disease or prosthetic valve are at increased risk for the infection. There are 2 main infectious causes of endocarditis: bacteremia and fungemia. Organisms most commonly involved include Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus bovis and Candida spp. Diagnosis and treatment of specific types of endocarditis are reviewed.
Infections in Transplant Recipients
Authors: Razonable Raymund R
Published: July 2012

Infections are the most common complication of organ transplant. They are caused by bacteria, fungi, viruses, and parasites. Transplant-associated infections usually fall into one of several categories: nosocomial or health care–associated pathogens (Staphylococcus aureus, enterococci, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and others), opportunistic pathogens (cytomegalovirus, Aspergillus fumigatus, Pneumocystis
jiroveci, polyomaviruses BK virus and JC virus, and others), and community-acquired pathogens (Streptococcus pneumoniae and respiratory viruses). Determinants of risk of infection after transplant include epidemiologic exposures (exposure history for both donor and recipient) and net state of immunosuppression (including antirejection immunosuppressive drugs, graft-vs-host disease prophylaxis and treatment, cytotoxic chemotherapy, immunomodulating viruses, and inherent defects in innate and adaptive immunity). Diagnosis and treatment of various types of infections are reviewed.
2,3,5-Triphenyl-2H-tetrazol-3-ium tetraphenylborate
Authors: Fun Hoong-Kun , Chia Tze Shyang , Mostafa Gamal A. E. , Hefnawy Mohamed M. , Abdel-Aziz Hatem A.
Published: July 2012

In the title salt, C19H15N4+·C24H20B−, the tetraphenylborate anion is in a tetrahedral geometry around the B atom [C—B—C angles of 107.10 (9)–111.79 (9)°]. In the cation, the tetrazole ring makes dihedral angles of 3.04 (7), 51.75 (7) and 51.13 (7)° with the attached phenyl rings. In the crystal, C—H...π interactions link the cations and anions into ion pairs.
2-(1H-Tetrazol-1-yl)acetic acid monohydrate
Authors: Wang Wen-Xiang
Published: July 2012

The crystal structure of the title compound, C3H4N4O2·H2O, exhibits O—H...O and O—H...N hydrogen bonds, which lead to the formation of a two-dimensional network parallel to thebcplane. The dihedral angle between the ring and the carboxylic acid group is 84.6 (14)°.
N-(2-{[5-Bromo-2-(morpholin-4-yl)pyrimidin-4-yl]sulfanyl}-4-methoxyphenyl)-4-methylbenzenesulfonamide
Authors: Kant Rajni , Gupta Vivek K. , Kapoor Kamini , Kumar Mohan , Mallesha L. , Sridhar M. A.
Published: July 2012

In the title compound, C22H23BrN4O4S2, the benzene rings bridged by the sulfonamide group are tilted relative to each other by 68.9 (1)° and the dihedral angle between the sulfur-bridged pyrimidine and benzene rings is 69.7 (1)°. The molecular conformation is stabilized by a weak intramolecular π–π stacking interaction between the pyrimidine and the 4-methylbenzene rings [centroid–centroid distance = 3.934 (2) Å]. The morpholine ring adopts a chair conformation and is disordered over two positions with an occupancy ratio of 0.853 (6):0.147 (6). In the crystal, molecules are linked by N—H...O hydrogen bonds into chains extending along theaaxis and further, through C—H...N and C—H...O interactions, into a three-dimensional supramolecular structure.
N-(4-Chlorophenyl)-2-nitrobenzenesulfonamide
Authors: Chaithanya U. , Foro Sabine , Gowda B. Thimme
Published: July 2012

In the title compound, C12H9ClN2O4S, the dihedral angle between the aromatic rings is 70.27 (8)°. In the crystal, molecules are linked by pairs of N—H...O(S) hydrogen bonds, forming inversion dimers.
2-Amino-7,7-dimethyl-5-oxo-4-(p-tolyl)-5,6,7,8-tetrahydro-4H-chromene-3-carbonitrile
Authors: Anthal Sumati , Brahmachari Goutam , Laskar Sujay , Banerjee Bubun , Kant Rajni , Gupta Vivek K.
Published: July 2012

In the title molecule, C19H20N2O2, the cyclohexene ring adopts a sofa conformation, while the pyran ring adopts a flattened boat conformation. In the crystal, molecules are linked by N—H...N and N—H...O hydrogen bonds, forming a two-dimensional network parallel to (010).
Psychological contract and organizational commitment
Authors: Behery Mohamed , Paton R.A. , Hussain Rahim
Published: July 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate, within a non‐western context, the impact of the psychological contract, relational psychological contract (RPC) and transactional psychological contract (TPC), on organizational commitment (OC) as mediated by transformational leadership (TL). In addition, the paper also explores contractual status: does the theory fit, whether one is employed on a full or part time basis.

Design/methodology/approach

The empirical part of the article is based on self‐administrated questionnaires completed by 433 respondents from across a range of service industries in the UAE.

Findings

The results indicate that both RPC and TPC are positively related to TL. The study did not identify any meaningful relationship between TL and OC. The study also suggests that TL has, at best, only a partial mediating role in relation to the RPC, TPC, and OC. As respondents' contractual status was employed as a control moderator, the paper can also report that part versus full time employment does not influence the outcome regarding the aforementioned relationships.

Research limitations/implications

The findings suggest that practitioners and academics alike should note that the nature of the psychological contract employed will impact commitment and retention. Also, consistency of approach is very important when one is searching for sustainable employee commitment. The principle limitations associated with this research relate to the self reporting nature of the study: it both negates meaningful triangulation and qualitative interrogation of the results. Further, the industry level, services, and investigation precludes inter industry comparison, and the context, the UAE, may limit the generalizability of the findings.

Originality/value

The paper contributes to the literature by being the first to study the mediation effect of TL on the relationship between RPC, TPC, and OC within a non‐western context. In addition, it also suggests that there may be some value in considering employee contractual status with regard to psychological contract and commitment.
Attitudes towards problems in the physical working environment: case contact centre
Authors: Rasila Heidi
Published: July 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to study how contact centre employees rationalize the perceived problems of an open plan contact centre environment.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper applies a framework of four different orientations towards the working environment: the object orientation, system orientation, people orientation and territory orientation. Interviews in three contact centre environments with 28 interviewees were carried out, in order to test whether the framework could be used to analyse the ways the contact centre employees rationalize their working environment. The data were analysed with a qualitative content analysis.

Findings

It was possible to find four ways to rationalize the working environment from the speech of the contact centre employees: object‐oriented, system‐oriented, people‐oriented and territory‐oriented rationalization. Persons with the same dominant way of rationalization had internally coherent ways of constructing the reality of their workplace and a common way to justify the existing spatial solutions.

Research limitations/implications

This research is limited to the insights of 28 contact centre workers. Their experiences of their working environment were studied without an attempt to objectively assess whether the problems they named were real or not. The results are not generalizable in the traditional statistical sense.

Originality/value

The research on workplace‐related issues in a contact centre context is limited. Contact centre work is demanding but the physical working environment can be used to minimize the negative consequences of these demands. Thus, it is important to raise understanding of the workplace‐related issues in a contact centre context.
Corporate governance systems and firm value: empirical evidence from Japan's natural experiment
Authors: Eberhart Robert
Published: July 2012

Purpose

This paper aims to present evidence that the adoption by Japanese firms of a shareholder‐oriented, more transparent, system of corporate governance creates greater corporate value in comparison to the traditional system of statutory auditors.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses panel data of Tokyo Stock Exchange listed companies to explore the potential convergence of corporate governance systems by examining the value differences between Japanese firms selecting one of two legal systems. A random‐effects panel regression is used to analyze the data. The dependent variable of the study is Tobin's q.

Findings

This paper finds a significant increase in firm valuation, as measured by Tobin's q, for companies that adopted the alternative of the Anglo‐American type committee system, even though comparative financial data show little difference in performance after adoption. This finding is attributed to signal sending, as companies that adopted this system signal a choice toward transparency via monitoring by outsiders, suggesting a reduction of asymmetric agency costs. The paper finds that the committee corporate governance system produces higher corporate value than the traditional auditor governance. The study also finds evidence that it is the signal provided by adoption of the credible system, not the financial performance variables, that accounts for this difference.

Social implications

The data support the central idea that corporate governance laws have consequences and encourages additional study of the effects of corporate signaling and the consequences of increased shareholder orientation of agents.

Originality/value

This paper takes advantage of the unique opportunity afforded by Japan's introduction of a dual system of corporate governance in 2003, when companies were offered a choice to adopt a new system of outside directors, which is a shareholder‐oriented committee system. It establishes that firm value can be created by a signal that corporate governance provides.
The performance gap in UK property returns
Authors: Lee Stephen
Published: July 2012

Purpose

When one talks of the return performance one typically refers to an average buy‐and‐hold return, also known as time‐weighted return. However, the returns of investors can be quite different. Investor returns are determined not only by the returns on the underlying assets but also by the timing and magnitude of their capital flows into and out of these assets. To account for the annual‐to‐annual variation in assets under management, a dollar‐weighted return has to be calculated. The difference between time‐weighted returns and dollar‐weighted returns is known as the performance gap. The purpose of this paper will be to investigate this in the UK property market.

Design/methodology/approach

Using an approach similar to that of Dichev the authors examine the performance gap in the UK direct property market using historical return data for 45 market‐segments over the time period 1981‐2009.

Findings

The results show that the performance gap was negative, i.e. investor returns were greater than asset returns. That is, UK direct property investors have shown greater returns than their underlying investments. This implies that estimates of the performance of the UK property market based on property returns do not reflect the experience of investors as a group.

Originality/value

This study provides the first evidence of the performance gap in the UK direct real estate market.
Flow cytometry technique for analysing Leishmania promastigote phagocytosis by human polymorphonuclear leucocytes and monocytes
Authors: REBBESTAD K. , HERREDSVELA S. , SORNES S. , EIDE G. E. , MÜLLER K. E. , SPRIET E. , SJURSEN H. , NAESS A.
Published: July 2012

In this study, we developed a flow cytometry technique for studying Leishmania (L.) mexicana phagocytosis by human polymorphonuclear leucocytes (PMNs) and monocytes. Leishmania promastigotes are elongated in shape and flagellated. This influences the light scatter when phagocytosis is measured by flow cytometry. Accordingly, we developed an oxidative burst method for measuring the phagocytic process. As this is an indirect marker of phagocytosis, we used confocal, light and electron microscopy to verify that promastigotes were, indeed, internalized by the phagocytes. For both PMNs and monocytes, the optimal conditions for achieving high sensitivity in flow cytometry detection were 5% pooled human serum and 15 min. incubation time. Incubations at 35, 37 and 39°C were also equally efficient for both PMNs and monocytes. Optimal parasite ratios were 10 parasites per PMN and 20 parasites per monocyte. Under these conditions, Leishmania were readily phagocytosed by human PMNs and monocytes and the effects of other influences, such as treatment, would be readily detectable. This indicated that these cells may play a role in the immune response against Leishmania.
Experiments on Cake Development in Crossflow Filtration for High Level Waste
Authors: Duignan Mark R. , Nash Charles A.
Published: July 2012

Crossflow filtration is a key process step in many operating and planned waste treatment facilities to separate undissolved solids from supernatant slurries. This separation technology generally has the advantage of self-cleaning through the action of wall shear stress created by the flow of waste slurry through the filter tubes. However, the ability of filter wall self-cleaning depends on the slurry being filtered. Many of the alkaline radioactive wastes are extremely challenging to filtration, e.g., those containing compounds of aluminum and iron having particles whose particle size and morphology reduce cake permeability. Low filter flux can be a bottleneck in waste processing facilities such as the Salt Waste Processing Facility at the Savannah River Site and the Waste Treatment Plant at the Hanford Site. To date, increased rates are generally realized by either increasing the crossflow filter axial flow rate, limited by pump capacity, or by increasing filter surface area limited by space and increasing the required pump load. The Savannah River National Laboratory (SRNL) set up both dead-end and crossflow filter tests to better understand filter performance based on filter media structure, flow conditions, and filter cleaning. Using nonradioactive simulated wastes, both chemically and physically similar to the actual radioactive wastes, the authors performed several tests to demonstrate increases in filter performance. With the proper use of filter flow conditions, filter flow rates can be increased over rates currently realized today. This paper describes the selection of a challenging simulated waste and crossflow filter tests to demonstrate how performance can be improved by varied filter operation methods. Those methods were a slow startup to better develop the filter cake and scouring the filter wall. The results showed that for salt waste and metal oxide hydroxide sludges, the process of backpulsing is not necessary to maintain a good filter flux, and the process of periodically scouring the filter improves filter performance. The results also imply that initial filter operation is important to develop a filter cake that minimized pressure drop, the presence of a filter cake can lead to improved solids separation, and a well-developed cake with periodic scouring may allow a good filter flux to be maintained for long periods of time.
An Experimental Study of the Dynamic Elasto-Plastic Contact Behavior of Metallic Granules
Authors: Wang Erheng , Geubelle Philippe , Lambros John
Published: July 2012

A controllable experimental method using a two-hemispherical-bead setup and a split Hopkinson pressure bar (SHPB) apparatus is implemented to study the dynamic elasto-plastic contact laws between ductile beads in contact. Beads made of four different metals, either rate sensitive (stainless steel 302 and 440C) or rate insensitive (Al alloy 2017 and brass alloy 260), are used. The experimental elasto-plastic contact force-displacement curves are obtained under different loading rates. The effects of material rate sensitivity and bead pair size on the contact laws are studied, and the way that the rate sensitivity of the materials translates to rate sensitivity contact force-displacement relations is explored. The transmitted energy ratio, which is related to the macroscale concept of a coefficient of restitution, is also calculated and, for all materials, shows a decrease with increasing impact speed. In addition, the experimental contact force–displacement data, residual compressive displacement, and diameter of yield area are compared with predictions from several widely-used theoretical models to generalize these experimental results to arbitrary contact situations.
Pyrosequencing Analysis of Bacterial Diversity in 14 Wastewater Treatment Systems in China
Authors: Wang Xiaohui , Hu Man , Xia Yu , Wen Xianghua , Ding Kun
Published: July 2012

To determine if there is a core microbial community in the microbial populations of different wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) and to investigate the effects of wastewater characteristics, operational parameters, and geographic locations on microbial communities, activated sludge samples were collected from 14 wastewater treatment systems located in 4 cities in China. High-throughput pyrosequencing was used to examine the 16S rRNA genes of bacteria in the wastewater treatment systems. Our results showed that there were 60 genera of bacterial populations commonly shared by all 14 samples, including
Ferruginibacter
,
Prosthecobacter
,
Zoogloea
, Subdivision 3 genera
incertae sedis
, Gp4, Gp6, etc., indicating that there is a core microbial community in the microbial populations of WWTPs at different geographic locations. The canonical correspondence analysis (CCA) results showed that the bacterial community variance correlated most strongly with water temperature, conductivity, pH, and dissolved oxygen (DO) content. Variance partitioning analyses suggested that wastewater characteristics had the greatest contribution to the bacterial community variance, explaining 25.7% of the variance of bacterial communities independently, followed by operational parameters (23.9%) and geographic location (14.7%). Results of this study provided insights into the bacterial community structure and diversity in geographically distributed WWTPs and discerned the relationships between bacterial community and environmental variables in WWTPs.
Complete Genome Sequence of the Opportunistic Food-Borne Pathogen Cronobacter sakazakii ES15
Authors: Shin Hakdong , Lee Ju-Hoon , Choi Younho , Ryu Sangryeol
Published: July 2012

Cronobacter sakazakii
is an emerging pathogen associated with several outbreaks of food-borne illness in premature infants. To characterize its physiology and pathogenicity at the molecular level,
C. sakazakii
ES15 was isolated and its genome was completely sequenced and analyzed. Here, the results are announced and major findings from its annotation data are reported.
Complete Genome Sequence of the Hyperthermophilic Cellulolytic Crenarchaeon “Thermogladius cellulolyticus” 1633
Authors: Mardanov Andrey V. , Kochetkova Tatiana V. , Beletsky Alexey V. , Bonch-Osmolovskaya Elizaveta A. , Ravin Nikolai V. , Skryabin Konstantin G.
Published: July 2012

Strain 1633, a novel member of the genus
Thermogladius
, isolated from a freshwater hot spring, is an anaerobic hyperthermophilic crenarchaeon capable of fermenting proteinaceous and cellulose substrates. The complete genome sequence reveals genes for protein and carbohydrate-active enzymes, the Embden-Meyerhof pathway for glucose metabolism, cytoplasmic NADP-dependent hydrogenase, and several energy-coupling membrane-bound oxidoreductases.
In Vitro
Intragenomic Rearrangement of Porcine Circovirus Type 2
Authors: Wen Libin , He Kongwang , Ni Yanxiu , Zhang Xuehan , Li Bin , Wang Xiaomin , Guo Rong li , Yu Zhengyu , Mao Aihua , Zhou Junming , Lv Lixin , Jiang Jieyuan
Published: July 2012

We report here for the first time the genome sequence of a rearranged porcine circovirus type 2 (PCV2) strain, CH-IVT1, isolated from PCV2-infected PK-15 cells. The complete circular genome of the CH-IVT1 is 605 nucleotides (nt) in length. The finding will help us to understand the molecular evolution of PCV2 and the relationship between PCV2 and PCV-associated diseases.
The provision of paediatric gastrointestinal endoscopy services in the United Kingdom
Authors: Muhammed Rafeeq , Thomson Mike , McGrogan Paraic , Beattie Robert M , Jenkins Huw R
Published: July 2012

Objective

There are no specific data available regarding paediatric endoscopy provision in the UK and anecdotal experiences suggest that such provision varies widely between the units. The aim of our study was to identify the current provision of paediatric endoscopy services in the UK, the number of endoscopies performed in each unit, the number of operators performing these endoscopies and whether endoscopies were performed under sedation or general anaesthesia.

Methods and results

An email questionnaire was sent to all 31 units in the UK performing paediatric endoscopies and responses were received from 25 centres (81%). The median number of total endoscopies (upper and lower) per unit each year was 332 (range 64-2040). The median number of gastrosopy per consultant in each centre was 101 (range 20-288) and median number of colonoscopies performed per consultant per year was 49 (range 10-215). 18 of the 25 centres performed all endoscopies under general anaesthesia with 7 centres using sedation as well as general anaesthesia. Percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy insertion (PEG) was performed in 24 out of 25 centres with the service undertaken by paediatric surgeons in 11 centres. 11 centres provided formal out of hours endoscopy services.

Conclusion

There is wide variation in paediatric endoscopy provision and the British Society of Paediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition (BSPGHAN) endoscopy working group is collaborating with the Joint Advisory Group (JAG) to provide specific standards for paediatric endoscopy services in the UK.
Capture-Recapture Methods and Party Activism in Britain
Authors: Cohen Gidon , Mates Lewis , Flinn Andrew
Published: July 2012

Capture-recapture methods are of general interest because they can be applied to conventional historical sources to address otherwise intractable questions about the size and dynamics of historical populations. When employed to assess alternative explanations for the long-term trajectory of party activism in Britain—based on data drawn from the South Lewisham Labour Party—they suggest that the falling supply of individuals prepared to become politically involved is more important than the changing demand of parties for activists.