bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Professionals and neophytes: contrasting approaches to the Web
Authors: Watson Ian
Published: October 2003

Examines how the World Wide Web is used by end-users and information professionals in the media, in particular at SMG Newspapers (publisher of The Herald, the Sunday Herald and the Evening Times). Concludes that, whereas journalists find that the Web offers many benefits deriving from rapid access to information and the facility for serendipitous browsing, information professionals use the Web both as an information source and a technology for developing better information services through the creation of intranets for synthesizing external and internal sources of information. Takes this difference in approach to the Web as the starting point of the discussion of the future role of the librarian and information professional in a world increasingly dominated by the Web. Practical experience suggests that their role will be to exploit the power of Web technologies to develop high value information services and enable end-users, such as journalists, to concentrate on the job in which they have the comparative advantage.
The Internet as an information solution for the small and medium sized business
Authors: Urwin Stuart
Published: October 2003

Discusses the needs of all small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs) to get the right flow of information into their organizations and how the Internet can help that process. The basic information needs of small businesses are reviewed in terms of reference sources and regular information about the operating environment and processes and techniques used to run operations effectively. The various categories of such information are listed and briefly described. Pays particular attention to the opportunities presented by the Internet to small companies, in terms of: the range of valuable reference sources available; up-to-date news and comment; sources for ideas generation; government policy and legislation; people and business finding; travel information; and training courses. The ways in which the Internet is revolutionizing the economics of many businesses is also noted with particular reference to sales and marketing; electronic mail; market research; new product development; recruitment benefits; sales benefits; paperwork reduction; and online auctions. Although many small companies do not yet see or comprehend the benefits available to them from the Internet, the reality is that the Internet gives every small business an extraordinary opportunity to transform the way in which it operates and to compete with big business on a much more level playing field.
Building for knowledge sharing - the architect as chameleon
Authors: Godowski Sarah
Published: October 2003

As the architect’s profession becomes increasingly elastic, embracing an evergrowing range of disciplines, so do the ways in which information flows within companies or public information needs within a local population. Examines the relevant issues in the context of specific case studies, including the architect firm Bisset Adams’ work for Tower Hamlets ‘Idea Stores’ libraries scheme and the Post Office’s new innovation lab.
IT Procurement - key steps to consider in procuring or licensing IT systems and electronically delivered content
Authors: Veysey Guy
Published: October 2003

The range of issues that customers should be aware of when entering into Information technology (IT) contracts, both in respect to the procurement of IT systems and software and in the licensing of electronically delivered content, are reviewed. It is shown that, in the race to keep up with competitors, many organizations often make hasty procurements when purchasing IT systems and software or when licensing electronic content, When companies buy what they think is the ‘best’ product on the market, this product may not always be best suited to the requirements of the business or organization. An effective requirements analysis is described that includes: a list of essential needs; key business processes; information flows and usage; interaction between processes and functions; relevance to other systems or data sources (present and planned); and technical compatibility with existing systems. The elements involved in typical procurement contracts are listed and extensive information is provided on licenses, deliverables, changes of procedure, support, maintenance and updates, liability, disputes, and termination. The essence of contract management is noted briefly.
Corporate portal development: a practical approach ensures real business benefits
Authors: Ryley Simon
Published: October 2003

Corporate intranets have been a remarkable success story over the last few years. The growth of Email as an everyday business tool, the connection of employees within large global organizations, and the astonishing ROI figures reported for some intranet projects all indicate that intranets, just like the Internet, are permanently changing the way business is done. Intranets have sprung up at an extraordinary rate, and most large organizations now have one. Many companies established the necessary infrastructure with projects that have more than paid for themselves in terms of cost savings. Now that the quick wins have been implemented, those responsible for intranets are struggling to cope with the practical problems of keeping content fresh, improving usability, and effectively meeting user needs. So much so that, if you’ve ever used a large corporate intranet, you will probably wonder what all the hype is about. Sure you can look up people’s phone numbers or today’s lunch menu, but trying to find useful business information is like looking for a needle in a haystack. Or rather a flashing, spinning, multi-coloured mess of out-of-date, incomplete and inaccurate information with no obvious order or organization. It is this problem that led to the development of the corporate portal. Today there are many vendors who promote the benefits of implementing a corporate portal solution. These vary widely in features and approach, but all aim to make it easier for information and knowledge to be shared in the organization. This article will explore the key issues behind the successful utilization of a corporate intranet and the practical approach that needs to be taken if these are to be tackled through the development of a corporate portal.
Squirrels and nuts: metadata and knowledge management
Authors: Sturdy Derek
Published: October 2003

There is a paradox in practical knowledge management in which the need to have an environment in which knowledge is organized in a more efficient manner needs to be balanced against the problem of “information overload”. Two approaches to resolving this paradox comprise: the “big software” approach, involving the use of a sophisticated search engine; and the “traditional information” approach, where content is organized beforehand using highly skilled people to spend time indexing, abstracting and isolating critical pieces of information within the bulk of any information source. It is proposed that a more practical approach would be to use techniques based on metadata, XML (Extensible Markup Language), tagging, data models and relational databases, arguing that, above a certain size of genuinely useful internal knowledge assets, the metadata approach is an essential management tool. While search engines performed reasonably well with the older, smaller databases, the increasing size of these databases means that size and density have become critical variables in knowledge management. Details of metadata and related techniques are described as a means of solving some of the problems involved in organizing knowledge in very large databases.
Why you can’t afford to ignore the invisible Web
Authors: Pedley Paul
Published: October 2003

While most users of the World Wide Web rely heavily on the standard range of commercial search engines and metasearching agents, they should be careful to note their limitations and inability to furnish access to material residing in the so-called “invisible Web”, which the search engines either cannot or will not index. Although it is felt by many users that the invisible Web is not worth covering, being full of duplication, “spam” and other ephemeral material, the fact remains that some of the best resources available on the Web exists in this form and to overlook it would be to detract from the full value of the Web. Users should seriously consider using the invisible Web on account of: the large size of the resource; the quality of the sites; the fact that a lot of the sites have quite specialized content within very clearly defined subject areas; the fact that it is often possible to tailor the output to meet users’ needs; and the fact that here may be the only location on the Web where the information can be found. The major obstacle to using the invisible Web is the intrinsic difficulty in accessing it. Personal recommendation can also be a useful means of being alerted to useful resources on the invisible Web but the main key to success lies in knowing where to look for such information and, having found a useful Web site, rely on it for future use.
Intelligent agents without the hype: why they work best with well structured content
Authors: Knowles Chris
Published: October 2003

A practical example and real-life case study is presented illustrating how one UK software company, Vrisko, has approached and managed the issues and problems of developing intelligent agent software and applying it in a business context. Describes some of the lessons learnt by the company in building applications which are currently being used by knowledge intensive organizations such as Citigroup, the world’s biggest bank and Linklaters, the UK’s second largest law firm, to interface with highly structured content from some of the world’s major business and financial publishers. Highlights the importance of content and the way content is organized and structured, to reinforce the point made by various pundits, that intelligent agent software works best with well structured content. Offers four predictions: that online content will be better organized and structured; that intelligent search tools will continue to improve; that users will expect external content integrated with their internal applications and intelligent agents to reflect and support their internal business processes; and that the skills of information professionals will become even more important, as organizations increasingly use intelligent agents and other technologies to build applications which optimize the value of information to their business.
Introducing the concept of an electronic information service
Authors: Pantry Sheila , Griffiths Peter
Published: October 2003

In order to realize fully the potential benefits of electronic information services (EISs), information managers need to understand the overall context of developing a total EIS where maximum use is made of electronically held information. While number of library and information science (LIS) managers have become experts in building and stocking virtual libraries, there are many who are not directly involved in this work but can see considerable potential value if it could be adapted to their own situation. Recent research suggests that there is still very little real guidance specifically aimed at the LIS practitioner in business and other workplace environments about how to introduce and manage a complete EIS. Proposes that an initial series of questions should be asked about services with potential for delivery as part of an EIS. Such questions will enable the information managers to: enhance the services given to users; cut down on repetitive work; and maximize the stock available by holding information and documents in electronic forms. Depending on the main subject area in which the LIS is operating, typical elements of the choices involved include: computer software; stand alone and network databases; CD-ROMs; electronic journals; multimedia products; image collections; encyclopaedias; reference materials; daily news; access to financial information sources; and scientific, technical and medical information.
Tracking the recession: how to monitor business failure
Authors: Tagg Lawrence
Published: October 2003

Outlines the major sources of data on UK companies in difficulty. Covers official statistics, other government publications and commercial data sources, both print and online
Keeping your business information skills up to date: the major sources reviewed
Authors: Bauwens Michel
Published: October 2003

Discusses the way in which business information professionals can keep abreast of new developments. Covers periodicals, associations, electronic communication and educational resources.
Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan-the best business directories
Authors: Tagg Lawrence
Published: October 2003

The economies of Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan are growing rapidly. Information on companies in the region is available from numerous directories. This article lists and evaluates the leading titles.
Japanese business information: a guide to sources
Authors: Foster Allan
Published: October 2003

A review of the sources of information currently available on Japanese business. Covers: organisations and contacts; newspapers, magazines and newsletters; country economic reports and statistical sources; books on Japanese business practices; market and industry sector sources; company information (directories and financial sources); electronic databases. The author is responsible for developing a business information collection for the Japanese Resources Centre at Manchester Business School.
Business information by fax
Authors: Poynder Richard
Published: October 2003

Describes the emergence of fax-delivered business information services, categorises the variety of types, and provides a directory of services.
NAICS: NAFTA’s industrial classification system
Authors: Pagell Ruth A. , Weaver Patricia J.S.
Published: October 2003

Industrial classification systems provide an important method for collecting, sorting and analysing industry and company data. Individual countries have developed their own standard industrial codes (SICs), as have regional and international organizations. Examines existing classification systems and describes the progress being made towards creating and implementing the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) Industrial Classification System (NAICS). Raises important issues and implications for business information professionals. Concludes that the NAICS will facilitate international research and analysis of company and industry information.
Information and the taxpayer – an agenda for business
Authors: Owen Tim
Published: October 2003

Draws attention to the importance for business of government information and considers the business implications of recent trends towards the electronic delivery of government services. Describes the setting up of the Coalition for Public Information (CoPI) as a broad-based group that aims to adddress the concerns raised by these trends. Highlights the extraordinary credibility CoPI has managed to achieve and the wide support its views enjoy. Sets out the 12 policies that comprise CoPI's Manifesto for Public Information, arguing that its proposals will be valid irrespective of which political party wins the 1997 UK general election.
Competitor intelligence – can you manage without it?
Authors: Simmons David
Published: October 2003

Presents useful advice for business intelligence analysts (BIAs) in companies on how to search for and acquire competitor intelligence and the important role that the Internet and World Wide Web can play in gathering such information. Stresses the dangers in over reliance on bookmarking regular Web sites and depending too heavily on alerting services while accepting that both have a vital role to play. Concludes with a discussion of evaluation forms for use when attending exhibitions at which competitors are present and the overall benefits to management of competitor intelligence in terms of: faster reaction to markets; reduced costs; lowered risks; added value; and increased productivity. The BIA can be the central point of communication for all competitor and industry information within a company.
Delivering business benefits through Internet technology
Authors: Bickerton Pauline
Published: October 2003

Presents a business case model and strategic framework, developed by MarketingNet Ltd, designed to assist companies in conceptualizing the match between their business and the potential benefits of Internet technology in promoting their products and services. The model can be used to roll out the project using the most appropriate skills-set and has been used extensively by blue chip companies in the UK. It will be published in a book (due to be published in 1998) as a sequel to Cybermarketing: how to use the superhighway to market your products and services.
From the zoo to the jungle: a brief look at the Czech information market
Authors: Kadlecek Jiri
Published: October 2003

Outlines the current state of the information market in the Czech Republic in terms of the transition from the repressive but safe life enjoyed by businesses under Communist rule to the current, free but jungle like conditions of business under Democracy. Under Communism, with its centrally planned economy, some degree of scientific, technical and medical (STM) information did exist but was controlled through a rigid hierarchical structure of information centres. After 1989, a rapid growth in the information sector took place with companies recruiting from three sources of information professionals: the main information centres; computer staff; and business people. The separation of the Slovak Republic from Czechoslovakia also impacted on the information market. Restitution of property, nationalized by the state, to individuals and heirs led to a big injection of resources to the real estate market and to the related information market. Remaining factors limiting growth include: relatively poor and expensive telecommunications infrastructure; disappointing economic growth and foreign investment; and reluctance of people to share information and knowhow. Nevertheless, there are signs of an emerging information society taking shape.
Collaboration leads to access to Asian business information
Authors: Oxley Sandra
Published: October 2003

This paper provides a survey of the content of CD-ROM databases, published by RMIT in collaboration with other organizations, which focus on Australia and SouthEast Asia. It also indicates some of the resources that are suitable for gathering business information for the identified geographic areas. Other databases published by RMIT Publishing may also include references to materials on the three countries, but the number of citations is low and they are not included in this survey. The coverage of the three countries allows for access to sources of information that are difficult to find. The business information on these databases is extensive and thus provides a good selection of sources for those interested in doing business in the region. One of the major partners with which RMIT Publishing collaborates is the National University of Singapore Library, which produces three of the relevant databases. The section prepared by the National University of Singapore delves more deeply into the databases that focus on Singapore.
Information services in the commercial sector: key issues and trends
Authors: Spiller David
Published: October 2003

Summarizes results drawn from a questionnaire survey, undertaken by the Library and Information Statistics Unit (LISU), Loughborough University, UK, to review the key issues and trends in 10 sectors of ‘libraries in the workplace’ and to make comparisons between them. The complete study involved 285 organizations (from 897 mailed) in 10 sectors and the present summary is restricted to the five ‘commercial’ sectors: law; financial services; energy; pharmaceutical industry; and management consultants. Data from four noncommercial sectors is included in some cross sectoral tables. Results reported include: current periodical titles received; enquiries answered from the library; provision of desktop access to electronic media; fraction of total expenditure allocated to different materials; most common uses of the Internet; libraries accessing periodicals in more than one format; where the library or information centre reports to; professional and support staff employed; photocopies obtained from other sources; number of CD-ROM databases held and online databases accessed regularly; services offered; changing methods of database access; numbers of searches for selected sectors; and average expenditure per user. (The full report is available from LISU).
Installing an extranet: one organization’s experience
Authors: Farrell Susan
Published: October 2003

Reports the experiences of the Chemical Industries Association (CIA), UK, in setting up and hosting an extranet in order to provide an information service to members allowing them to select the exact piece of information they require. Stresses the problems involved in choosing a Web site design company, in particular the problem of finding a basis for comparison. Reports the selection of Motiv Systems Ltd and goes on to describe: the design concept; collection of information; formats; passwords; Internet Service Provider (ISP) problems; feedback from CIA members; means of updating the information available.
The role of government in the information society: lessons from Germany
Authors: Schwuchow Werner
Published: October 2003

In view of the turbulent development of electronic information markets one could – rashly perhaps – arrive at the conclusion that this area of economic activity could without hesitation be left to the operation of market forces (supply and demand). But is this really the case? Have important social and wider aspects not been taken into consideration? In order to put this question into its historical context, the development of national information policy over the past 30 or 40 years will be outlined. Taking accepted criteria used in fiscal science, consideration will be given to which part of information provision could be organized most efficiently on a free enterprise basis and in which part of this sector of the economy the state has to accept some responsibility. A responsibility which extends beyond merely creating the framework conditions for the functioning of a free enterprise system. Finally, from these fiscal science criteria, different phases of German information policy will be examined critically under the magnifying glass, from the beginning of the 1960s to date (up to 1990 those of the then German Federal Republic). This article is based on a paper given at the International Conference ‘Information Provision – Policy and Strategy’ 28 June–July 1998 at the Frankenwarte Academy, Würzburg (Germany).
Skills for the Knowledge Economy: the reality of the market-place
Authors: Abell Angela , Oxbrow Nigel
Published: October 2003

The potential of knowledge management (KM) for library and information professionals was investigated by the UK Library and Information Commission (LIC) funded research project: ‘Underpinning Skills for Knowledge Management: training implications’. This aimed to: gain an understanding of KM and the roles, skills and competencies needed in these environments; assess the implications for the library and information profession; assess the routes available to people wishing to develop KM skills; and examine the need for information literacy throughout KM environments. KM practitioners, representatives from KM environments, and KM experts and groups were consulted using: interviews, a questionnaire survey, case studies, workshops and market testing. Organizations implementing KM initiatives in Europe and North America were identified along with the emerging KM related roles, and the skills and backgrounds of people recruited to undertake them. Concludes that knowledge management is becoming commonplace but seldom in the form of large KM programmes. A small number of identifiable and achievable KM activities are usually introduced, those offering the most business opportunities being selected. The cumulative effect contributes to changing behaviour and attitudes but the term ‘knowledge management’ is used with extreme caution and many activities are not labeled as such.
Investigating Hispanic Underrepresentation in Managerial and Professional Occupations
Authors: Mundra Kusum , Moellmer Andrew , Lopez-Aqueres Waldo
Published: October 2003

In this article, the authors examine Hispanic underrepresentation in managerial and professional occupations on the basis of human capital deficiencies, economic and spatial barriers, and the lack of mentoring resources. Using Public Use Microdata Samples data, the authors find that there is a 6% chance of Hispanics working as a manager or a professional over other professions, whereas the same probability is 32% for non-Hispanic Whites. Also, the most important explanatory variable affecting the chances of being a manager or professional for Hispanics is fluency in English, whereas years of education are most important for non-Hispanic Whites.
The Role of Ethnic Identification and Perceived Social Support in Latinos' Adjustment to College
Authors: Schneider Monica E. , Ward Dahlia J.
Published: October 2003

This study examines the role of perceived social support and ethnic identification in Latinos'adjustment to college. Included were five sources of perceived support (family, general peer, Latino peer, faculty, and institutional) and five types of college adjustment (overall, social, emotional, academic, and attachment). The authors' perceived support model accounted for as much as 51% of the variance in attachment, with different types of support contributing uniquely to different types of adjustment. Perceived support mediated the relationship between ethnic identification and adjustment. Highly identified Latinos were less adjusted to college, in part because they perceived lower support than less identified Latinos. Important differences emerged between Latino peer support and general peer support for Latinos' college adjustment. Both individual differences and situational factors are emphasized. The implications of these findings for understanding Latinos' adjustment to college are discussed.
Open Architecture: New Technology for Retirement Plans
Authors: Murphy Nancy
Published: October 2003

Open architecture is the technology that provides the means to open up a world of investment choice, options and ease in reporting and administration for company retirement plans and participants by enabling multiple retirement plan service providers to communicate and share data electronically. This ability to provide data to and receive data from a variety of investment providers means that the plan sponsor has more options and control in the setup and administration of its retirement plan. Perhaps the most important function that open-architecture systems provide the plan sponsor is the ability to work with multiple, independent service providers, commonly known as unbundling. This article outlines the features and benefits of open architecture and discusses how to find an open-architecture provider and why open-architecture systems make unbundling a primary choice for plan sponsors today.
In Search of a Usable Past: The Question of National Identity in Romanian Studies, 1990-2000
Authors: Iordachi Constantin , Trencsényi Balázs
Published: October 2003

This article offers an overview of the scholarly debates on Romanian nation building and national ideology during the first post-communist decade. It argues that the globalization of history writing and the increasing access of local intellectual discourses to the international “market of ideas” had a powerful impact on both Eastern European history writing and on the Western scholarly literature dealing with the region. In regard to Romanian historiography, the article identifies a conflict between an emerging reformist school that has gained significant terrain in the last decade and a traditionalist canon, based on the national-communist heritage of the Ceauşescu regime, preserving a considerable influence at the institutional level. In analyzing their clash, the article proposes an analytical framework that relativizes the traditional dichotomy between “Westernizers” and “autochthonists,” accounting for a multitude of ideological combinations in the post-1989 Romanian cultural space. In view of the Western history writing on Romania, the article identifies a methodological shift from social-political narratives to historical anthropology and intellectual history. On this basis, it evaluates the complex interplay of local and external historiographic discourses in setting new research agendas, experimenting with new methodologies, and reconsidering key analytical concepts of the historical research on Eastern Europe.
Weak States and Pluralism: The Case of Moldova
Authors: Way Lucan A.
Published: October 2003

This article argues that Moldova's weak state, tenuous elite networks, and polarized politics have provided key sources of democracy in the post-Soviet period. In the face of a weak civil society, severe economic decline, civil war, low income per capita, and an absence of a democratic history, Moldovan democracy in the 1990s was stronger than in any other non-Baltic, post-Soviet republic. The country is best understood not as a struggling or unconsolidated democracy but instead as a case of failed authoritarianism or “pluralism by default.” In cases of pluralism by default, democratic political competition endures not because civil society is strong or leaders democratic but because politicians are too polarized and the state too feeble to enforce authoritarian rule in a liberal international context. In such cases, the same factors that promote pluralism may also undermine governance and state viability.
The Geopolitics of Tolerance: Minority Rights Under EU Expansion in East-Central Europe
Authors: Tesser Lynn M.
Published: October 2003

Post-communist states aiming to join European organizations such as the Council of Europe, the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe, and the European Union felt pressure early on after 1989 to adopt emerging European norms on minority rights. Though scholars have already noted frequent acceptance of these standards, the question remains of how European norms actually affect the political salience of identity. Pressure to adhere to them undoubtedly reigned in potential conflict over the Hungarian minority in Slovakia as well as over Russians in Latvia and Estonia. Yet such beneficial results can be offset, first, when political elites' strategic acceptance of European standards undermines the legitimacy of liberal values, and second, when such norms create friction by unintentionally encouraging ethnic groups such as Moravians in the Czech Republic and Silesians in Poland to transform themselves into “nationalities.”
Evaluation of an Educational Intervention on Breastfeeding for NICU Nurses
Authors: Siddell Erica , Marinelli Kathleen , Froman Robin D. , Burke Georgine
Published: October 2003

The effect of breastfeeding education on breastfeeding knowledge and attitudes of nurses in a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) was evaluated. NICU nurses (intervention) and pediatric nurses (untreated control) working at a northeastern US children's hospital participated in the pretest/posttest design study. Both groups answered the same breastfeeding questionnaire on 2 occasions. NICU nurses completed the questionnaire the second time after attending the education session. Outcome measures evaluated by questionnaire items were (1) breastfeeding knowledge, (2) pro-breastfeeding attitudes, (3) baby-focused care attitudes, and (4) nurse-focused care attitudes. Comparison groups were similar at pretest on demographic variables and remained so despite attrition between pretesting and posttesting. A significant increase( P < .001) occurred in NICU nurses' breastfeeding knowledge after the education session. Findings suggest that an educational intervention has potential for improving NICU nurses' knowledge and certain attitudes about breastfeeding but may not alter other attitudes of interest in the desired direction. J Hum Lact. 19(3):293-302.
Breastfeeding, Asthma, and Atopic Disease: An Epidemiological Review of the Literature
Authors: Oddy Wendy H. , Peat Jennifer K.
Published: October 2003

Two main types of observational epidemiological studies have been used to question whether breastfeeding protects children from developing atopic disease and asthma. These are cohort studies of random samples of children and cohort studies of children with a family history of asthma or atopy. In each study type, exposure and outcome data are collected either prospectively or retrospectively. In this review, the primary objective was to assess the evidence of whether breastfeeding protects against asthma and atopic disease. As an outcome of this review, an analytical perspective with clinical implications is given. J Hum Lact. 19(3):250-261
Breastfeeding is Protective Against Dental Fluorosis in a Nonfluoridated Rural Area of Ontario, Canada
Authors: Brothwell D. , Limeback H.
Published: October 2003

To determine the relationship between early infant feeding and dental fluorosis in a non-fluoridated area, 1367 children were examined for fluorosis and given a water sample vial and questionnaire. 752 families responded (55%). Breastfeeding was reported by 69% of respondents, with 53.6% breastfed < 6 months, 35.3% 6-12 months, and 11.1% > 1 year. Formula feeding was reported by 84% of respondents, with 60.3% and 39.7% formula fed for < 1 year and > 1 year, respectively. Fluorosis prevalence was 23.3% and was present in 27.2%, 19.6% and 13.8% of children breastfed for < 6 months, 6-12 months, and > 12 months, respectively ( P < .05). About 87% of formula fed children had tap water added to the bottle. Breastfeeding for ≤ 6 months may protect children from developing fluorosis in the permanent incisors. This study suggests that dental professionals should support efforts to increase the rate and duration of breastfeeding. J Hum Lact. 19(4):386-390.
Dietary Modifications and Fibromyalgia
Authors: Logan Alan C.
Published: October 2003

Fibromyalgia (FM) is a common rheumatic condition with an unknown etiology. The role of diet in the treatment of FM has been the subject of a small but growing body of research, particularly in Scandinavian nations, with results showing benefits in pain reduction, sleep quality, and general health. Removal of dietary excitotoxins, alteration of cytokines, reduced oxidative stress, improved bowel flora, and central nervous system chemical modification may result from dietary modifications in FM. Based on this review of the literature, it can be concluded that dietary modification may provide relief in a subset of FM patients and certainly warrants further investigation.
Stan Douglas and the Aesthetic Critique of Urban Decline
Authors: Crichlow Warren
Published: October 2003

Over the past two decades, Vancouver-based artist Stan Douglas has produced an evolving body of photographic, slide projection and sound, and film and video installation projects. From nascent large-scale panoramic landscape photographs to intellectually probing multimedia narratives on urbanism's transformations, his works persistently excavate the social, political, and epistemological arbitrariness of modernity's claim to progress. Douglas locates his muse in the decrepit past and fabricates, through technical and material means, visual spaces where irrepressible difficulties and dangers, saliencies, and pleasures emerge. Like the best contemporary visual art forms, Douglas's film and video installations are highly cognitive and perceptual, designed for experience and completion by unforeseeable meanings the viewer may produce. This article explores the implications of Stan Douglas's work for rethinking the social and cultural contexts of education today.
Resin-retained Bridges Re-visited Part 2. Clinical Considerations
Authors: George Geoffrey St , Hemmings Ken , Patel Kalpesh
Published: October 2003

Resin-retained bridges have been used clinically since the 1970s, and offer a more conservative approach to the restoration of edentulous spaces than conventional bridgework. They are easy to place, cheap to fabricate and have been shown to be cost-effective. Despite this, they are not frequently used in general dental practice and they have an undeserved reputation for failure.

Since their initial introduction, they have undergone a number of changes to their method of retention, and the materials used in their construction. This has resulted in a predictable, aesthetic restoration which, barring the use of implants, is often the treatment of choice where teeth adjacent to an edentulous space are minimally or not restored.

This article hopes to show the clinical techniques required to produce predictable resin-retained bridgework in general practice.
Effect of Dexmedetomidine on Postpartum Depression in Women With Prenatal Depression
Authors: Zhou Yingyong , Bai Zhihong , Zhang Wenchao , Xu Shouyu , Feng Yunfei , Li Qiuwen , Li Lishan , Ping Anqi , Chen Liang , Wang Saiying , Duan Kaiming
Published: January 2024

Importance

Postpartum depression (PPD) is emerging as a major public health problem worldwide. Although the particular period and context in which PPD occurs provides an opportunity for preventive interventions, there is still a lack of pharmacologic prevention strategies for PPD.

Objective

To assess the efficacy and safety of dexmedetomidine for prevention of PPD among women with prenatal depression undergoing cesarean delivery.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This randomized clinical trial enrolled 338 women who screened positive for prenatal depression at 2 hospitals in Hunan, China from March 28, 2022, to April 16, 2023. Women with an Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale score of more than 9 who were 18 years of age or older and were scheduled for elective cesarean delivery were eligible.

Interventions

Eligible participants were randomly assigned in a 1:1 ratio to either the dexmedetomidine group or the control group via centrally computer-generated group randomization. Dexmedetomidine, 0.5 μg/kg and 0.9% saline were intravenously infused for 10 minutes after delivery in the dexmedetomidine and control groups, respectively. After infusion, sufentanil or dexmedetomidine plus sufentanil was administered via patient-controlled intravenous analgesia for 48 hours in the control group and dexmedetomidine group, respectively.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The primary outcome was positive PPD screening results at 7 and 42 days post partum, defined as a postpartum Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale score of more than 9. Analysis was on an intention-to-treat basis.

Results

All 338 participants were female, with a mean (SD) age of 31.5 (4.1) years. Positive PPD screening incidence at 7 and 42 days post partum in the dexmedetomidine group vs the control group was significantly decreased (day 7, 21 of 167 [12.6%] vs 53 of 165 [32.1%]; risk ratio, 0.39 [95% CI, 0.25-0.62]; P < .001; day 42, 19 of 167 [11.4%] vs 50 of 165 [30.3%]; risk ratio, 0.38 [95% CI, 0.23-0.61]; P < .001). The dexmedetomidine group showed no significant difference in adverse events vs the control group (46 of 169 [27.2%] vs 33 of 169 [19.5%]; P = .10), but the incidence of hypotension increased (31 of 169 [18.3%] vs 16 of 169 [9.5%]; risk ratio, 2.15 [95% CI, 1.13-4.10]; P = .02).

Conclusions and Relevance

Dexmedetomidine administration in the early postpartum period significantly reduced the incidence of a positive PPD screening and maintained a favorable safety profile.

Trial Registration

Chinese Clinical Trial Registry Identifier: ChiCTR2200057213
Characterization of cytotoxic Citrobacter braakii isolated from human stomach
Authors: Yu Mengchao , Xie Fangyu , Xu Chengzhen , Yu Ting , Wang Yixuan , Liang Shuzhen , Dong Quanjiang , Wang Lili
Published: January 2024

Citrobacter braakii (C. braakii) is an anaerobic, gram‐negative bacterium that has been isolated from the environment, food, and humans. Infection by C. braakii has been associated with acute mucosal inflammation in the intestine, respiratory tract, and urinary tract. However, the pathogenesis of C. braakii in the gastric mucosa has not yet been clarified. In this study, the bacterium was detected in 35.5% (61/172) of patients with chronic gastritis (CG) and was closely associated with the severity of mucosal inflammation. Citrobacter braakii P1 isolated from a patient with CG exhibited urease activity and acid resistance. It contained multiple secretion systems, including a complete type I secretion system (T1SS), T5aSS and T6SS. We then predicted the potential pilus‐related adhesins. Citrobacter braakii P1 diffusely adhered to AGS cells and significantly increased lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release; the adhesion rate and LDH release were much lower in HEp‐2 cells. Strain P1 also induced markedly increased mRNA and protein expression of IL‐8 and TNF‐α in AGS cells, and the fold increase was much higher than that in HEp‐2 cells. Our results demonstrate proinflammatory and cytotoxic role of C. braakii in gastric epithelial cells, indicating the bacterium is potentially involved in inducing gastric mucosa inflammation.
Aligned Bioelectronic Polypyrrole/Collagen Constructs for Peripheral Nerve Interfacing
Authors: Trueman Ryan P. , Guillemot‐Legris Owein , Lancashire Henry T. , Mehta Abijeet S. , Tropp Joshua , Daso Rachel E. , Rivnay Jonathan , Tabor Alethea B. , Phillips James B. , Schroeder Bob C.
Published: January 2024

Electrical stimulation has shown promise in clinical studies to treat nerve injuries. This work is aimed to create an aligned bioelectronic construct that can be used to bridge a nerve gap, directly interfacing with the damaged nerve tissue to provide growth support. The conductive three‐dimensional bioelectronic scaffolds described herein are composite materials, comprised of conductive polypyrrole (PPy) nanoparticles embedded in an aligned collagen hydrogel. The bioelectronic constructs are seeded with dorsal root ganglion derived primary rat neurons and electrically stimulated in vitro. The PPy loaded constructs support a 1.7‐fold increase in neurite length in comparison to control collagen constructs. Furthermore, upon electrical stimulation of the PPy‐collagen construct, a 1.8‐fold increase in neurite length is shown. This work illustrates the potential of bioelectronic constructs in neural tissue engineering and lays the groundwork for the development of novel bioelectronic materials for neural interfacing applications.
Dispersing Magnetic Nanoparticles into Staggered, Porous Nano‐Frameworks: Weaving and Visualizing Nanoscale Magnetic Flux Lines for Enhanced Electromagnetic Absorption
Authors: Zhou Xiaodi , Zhang Huibin , Yuan Mingyue , Li Bangxin , Cui Jiacheng , Qian Yuetong , Liu Yihao , Yu Linhe , Xiong Xuhui , Du Yiqian , Zhang Jincang , Lai Yuxiang , Lv Hualiang , Che Renchao
Published: January 2024

By dispersing magnetic materials within various nanoscale structural frameworks, a complex and weavable magnetic network of nanoscale magnetic fields is created. This network not only systematically reconstructs interactions with external electromagnetic fields but also inversely adjusts its magnetic properties, potentially leading to anomalous or enhanced magnetic behaviors. However, the challenges lie in finding an effective nano‐framework capable of efficiently regulating magnetic flux lines and visualizing these reconstructed fields at the nanoscale. In this study, magnetic Co nanoparticles are strategically dispersed into a meticulously layered nanoporous framework with the bottom and upper nanopores exhibiting a staggered arrangement. The staggered nanoporous structure intricately shapes the magnetic flux lines into a Chinese knot shape, significantly altering its magnetic characteristics. The innovative use of advanced in situ magnetic holography, coupled with magnetic simulation calculations, has been instrumental in visualizing these modifications to the magnetic flux lines. Such a transformation remarkably enhances the material's efficacy in absorbing electromagnetic waves, covering the Ku band with remarkable efficiency even at a minimal thickness of 1.7 mm. Looking ahead, these breakthroughs not only provide a roadmap for developing more efficient electromagnetic wave absorbers but also open up new possibilities in manipulating magnetic properties for various advanced technological applications.
Manipulating Molecular Motion of [1,2,5]Thiadiazolo[3,4‐g]Quinoxaline‐6,7‐Dicarboxylate Small Molecules for Highly Efficient Solar‐Thermal Water Evaporation and Thermoelectric Power Generation
Authors: Wang Luoqing , Wang Han , Yu Shuai , An Nan , Pan Yuyu , Li Jing , Jia Tao , Wang Kai , Huang Wei
Published: January 2024

Organic conjugated molecules are a category of high solar harvesting material that can convert energy into heat and be utilized as solar‐driven water‐electricity co‐generation. However, the limited absorption range and insufficient photothermal conversion efficiency hinder their application. Herein, two new organic molecules TPA‐BTQ and TPA‐SBTQ, featuring strong electron withdrawing [1,2,5]thiadiazolo[3,4‐g]quinoxaline‐6,7‐dicarboxylate (BTQ) center, terminated by triphenylamine or thiophene‐bridged triphenylamine are designed and synthesized. Detailed theory calculations and spectral analysis confirm that the BTQ unit induces strong intramolecular charge transfer and expands the absorption across a wide spectra range. The flexible alky chain substituted on thiophene inhibits the over‐aggregation and affords more rotation space, leading to suppressed radiative transition and efficient solar‐thermal conversion. Therefore, TPA‐SBTQ powder shows broad absorption across 350 to 1300 nm with a high photothermal conversion efficiency of 18.28% under 1 kW m−2 simulated solar irradiation. Moreover, TPA‐SBTQ is further explored for solar‐thermal conversion applications. The evaporation rate of TPA‐SBTQ solar‐driven water evaporator can reach a remarkable 1.337 kg m−2 h−1 with 92% of water evaporation efficiency under 1 kW m−2 solar irradiation. This study provides guidance for the rational design of high‐efficient organic solar‐thermal materials with a wide absorption spectrum and excellent photothermal conversion efficiency at the molecular level for emerging photothermal‐related applications.
Advances in Extracellular Vesicle Research Over the Past Decade: Source and Isolation Method are Connected with Cargo and Function
Authors: Poupardin Rodolphe , Wolf Martin , Maeding Nicole , Paniushkina Liliia , Geissler Sven , Bergese Paolo , Witwer Kenneth W. , Schallmoser Katharina , Fuhrmann Gregor , Strunk Dirk
Published: January 2024

The evolution of extracellular vesicle (EV) research has introduced nanotechnology into biomedical cell communication science while recognizing what is formerly considered cell “dust” as constituting an entirely new universe of cell signaling particles. To display the global EV research landscape, a systematic review of 20 364 original research articles selected from all 40 684 EV‐related records identified in PubMed 2013–2022 is performed. Machine‐learning is used to categorize the high‐dimensional data and further dissected significant associations between EV source, isolation method, cargo, and function. Unexpected correlations between these four categories indicate prevalent experimental strategies based on cargo connectivity with function of interest being associated with certain EV sources or isolation strategies. Conceptually relevant association of size‐based EV isolation with protein cargo and uptake function will guide strategic conclusions enhancing future EV research and product development. Based on this study, an open‐source database is built to facilitate further analysis with conventional or AI tools to identify additional causative associations of interest.