bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Volunteering in nature as a way of enabling people to reintegrate into society
Authors: O'Brien Liz , Burls Ambra , Townsend Mardie , Ebden Matthew
Published: November 2010

Aims: Those who experience emotional and behavioural difficulties or mental health problems, are unemployed or bereaved, or have been in trouble with the law can be socially marginalized and can become isolated from their families, community and wider society. This paper explores the role of active hands-on contact with the environment through a general environmental volunteering programme and through a targeted therapeutic volunteer programme, highlighting how these two approaches can potentially aid some marginalized people to reintegrate into society.

Methods: This study draws on concepts from the well-being and social capital literatures and refers to two separate pieces of research: Study 1 was based on general environmental volunteering primarily in northern England and southern Scotland; and Study 2 focused on mental health participants at Meanwhile Wildlife Garden in London. Ethnographic and interview data were gathered from participants as a means to understand the benefits they gained from their voluntary involvement. The participants all volunteered to undertake the activities they were involved in and chose outdoor nature activity as opposed to other activities.

Results: There is self-reported and observed evidence from and of participants in these studies that contact with nature can be beneficial to a range of excluded groups; also the studies show that the learning and curative processes that take place in green spaces can provide benefits in terms of social reintegration of vulnerable young people and adults. Three key themes of particular relevance to the marginalized participants were identified as: (1) improving relations with others and nature; (2) working alongside others who are different; and (3) developing social and employable skills. Active hands-on engagement allows people to work at their own pace, since these approaches are not target focused, and skills and social networks can be developed slowly. Practical engagement in environmental conservation work is one approach that may provide people with a new role, identity, skills and social networks. This paper argues that volunteering in nature has the potential to provide a shared purpose for people, independent of gender, age, physical ability, mental functioning, socioeconomic status or knowledge of environmental management. However, it is recognized that particular people may and do experience barriers to engaging with and enjoying the natural environment.

Conclusions: Volunteering in nature may be particularly effective for those who would like to be outdoors and have more contact with nature yet need specific encouragement and supported/led activities to participate.
Physical Functioning Measures and Risk of Falling in Older People Living in Residential Aged Care Facilities
Authors: Wilson Nicholas , Hilmer Sarah , March Lyn , Cameron Ian , Lord Stephen , Mason Rebecca , Sambrook Philip
Published: November 2010

Background:

Frail older individuals living in residential aged care facilities (RACFs) have impaired physical function compared with to older people living in the community. In residents of RACFs, we aimed to produce sex-specific means and empirical norms of objective physical function measures to ascertain whether these measures are predictors of falls.

Methods:

Data were extracted from a large cohort study investigating fall and fracture rates in RACFs in the Northern Sydney Health Area, Australia.

Results:

Study participants (n = 602, 70.9% female) were recruited from 51 RACFs. Cohort means (±standard deviation) for females were for grip strength (GS) 16.8±5.3 kg, simple reaction time (RT) 384±154 ms, walking speed (WS) 0.56 ±0.20 ms−1, balance category (B) 3.8±1.1 and sit to stand category (STS) 3.6±0.5. For males, means were for GS 28.8±7.8 kg, RT 335±150 ms, WS 0.62±0.22 ms−1, B 4.1±1.1 and STS 3.7±0.5. Means of B and STS decreased significantly over the 1-year study period for males and females ( p < 0.001). Individual multivariate negative binomial regression models for each functional outcome showed having a WS <0.6 ms−1 (IRR = 1.37, 95% Cl = 1.03—1.84), a STS score of 3 (IRR = 1.39, 95% Cl = 1.09—1.79) and B category of 3 or 5 (IRR = 1.69, 95% CI = 1.29—2.22) were significantly associated with an increased fall rate.

Conclusions:

This study establishes normative values for physical function tests in mobile residents of RACFs and demonstrates that walking speed, balance and sit to stand impairments are associated with falls in this group.
Disaster News and Subsequent Information Seeking: Exploring the Role of Spatial Presence and Perceptual Realism
Authors: Lachlan Kenneth A. , Westerman David K. , Spence Patric R.
Published: November 2010

A body of previous research has indicated that in times of crisis and extreme duress, individuals engage in information seeking, consistent with the axioms of Uncertainty Reduction Theory. Using an experimental procedure, the current study extends previous research about telepresence and information seeking concerning crises. Participants first viewed a news story about Hurricane Katrina. Following the viewing, respondents indicated the level of presence they experienced and whether they wanted to seek additional information. Results indicate that the experience of presence is strongly associated with the desire to seek further information. These results are discussed both in terms of implications for crisis message practitioners and other industries, and also in terms of their support for past research linking presence with cognitive processing.
Accelerating Technologies: The Diffusion of Nonlinear Video Editing
Authors: Grant August E. , Brown Tim , Nachlinger Harvie
Published: November 2010

Collective action theory was applied to predict the pattern of adoption of nonlinear video editing in local television newsrooms. A census of small market stations in a southern state over three points in time suggest an accelerating production function of adoption that will eventually result in 100% adoption of nonlinear editing in the stations surveyed. Implications of the findings for theory, industry, and academia are discussed.
CD8+ T-cell expansion and maintenance after recombinant adenovirus immunization rely upon cooperation between hematopoietic and nonhematopoietic antigen-presenting cells
Authors: Bassett Jennifer D. , Yang Teng Chih , Bernard Dannie , Millar James B. , Swift Stephanie L. , McGray A. J. Robert , VanSeggelen Heather , Boudreau Jeanette E. , Finn Jonathan D. , Parsons Robin , Evelegh Carole , Damjanovic Daniela , Grinshtein Natalie , Divangahi Maziar , Zhang Liang , Xing Zhou , Wan Yonghong , Bramson Jonathan L.
Published: November 2010

We have recently reported that CD8+ T-cell memory maintenance after immunization with recombinant human adenovirus type 5 (rHuAd5) is dependent upon persistent transgene expression beyond the peak of the response. In this report, we have further investigated the location and nature of the cell populations responsible for this sustained response. The draining lymph nodes were found to be important for primary expansion but not for memory maintenance, suggesting that antigen presentation through a nonlymphoid source was required. Using bone marrow chimeric mice, we determined that antigen presentation by nonhematopoietic antigen-presenting cells (APCs) was sufficient for maintenance of CD8+ T-cell numbers. However, antigen presentation by this mechanism alone yielded a memory population that displayed alterations in phenotype, cytokine production and protective capacity, indicating that antigen presentation through both hematopoietic and nonhematopoietic APCs ultimately defines the memory CD8+ T-cell response produced by rHuAd5. These results shed new light on the immunobiology of rHuAd5 vectors and provide evidence for a mechanism of CD8+ T-cell expansion and memory maintenance that relies upon both hematopoietic and nonhematopoietic APCs.
Transplantation of human fetal blood stem cells in the osteogenesis imperfecta mouse leads to improvement in multiscale tissue properties
Authors: Vanleene Maximilien , Saldanha Zahraa , Cloyd Kristy L. , Jell Gavin , Bou-Gharios George , Bassett J. H. Duncan , Williams Graham R. , Fisk Nicholas M. , Oyen Michelle L. , Stevens Molly M. , Guillot Pascale V. , Shefelbine Sandra J.
Published: November 2010

Osteogenesis imperfecta (OI or brittle bone disease) is a disorder of connective tissues caused by mutations in the collagen genes. We previously showed that intrauterine transplantation of human blood fetal stem/stromal cells in OI mice (oim) resulted in a significant reduction of bone fracture. This work examines the cellular mechanisms and mechanical bone modifications underlying these therapeutic effects, particularly examining the direct effects of donor collagen expression on bone material properties. In this study, we found an 84% reduction in femoral fractures in transplanted oim mice. Fetal blood stem/stromal cells engrafted in bones, differentiated into mature osteoblasts, expressed osteocalcin, and produced COL1a2 protein, which is absent in oim mice. The presence of normal collagen decreased hydroxyproline content in bones, altered the apatite crystal structure, increased the bone matrix stiffness, and reduced bone brittleness. In conclusion, expression of normal collagen from mature osteoblast of donor origin significantly decreased bone brittleness by improving the mechanical integrity of the bone at the molecular, tissue, and whole bone levels.
Multiple phenotypic changes in mice after knockout of the B3gnt5gene, encoding Lc3 synthase—a key enzyme in lacto-neolacto ganglioside synthesis
Authors: Kuan Chien-Tsun , Chang Jinli , Mansson Jan-Eric , Li Jianjun , Pegram Charles , Fredman Pam , McLendon Roger E , Bigner Darell D
Published: November 2010

Background

Ganglioside biosynthesis occurs through a multi-enzymatic pathway which at the lactosylceramide step is branched into several biosynthetic series. Lc3 synthase utilizes a variety of galactose-terminated glycolipids as acceptors by establishing a glycosidic bond in the beta-1,3-linkage to GlcNaAc to extend the lacto- and neolacto-series gangliosides. In order to examine the lacto-series ganglioside functions in mice, we used gene knockout technology to generate Lc3 synthase geneB3gnt5-deficient mice by two different strategies and compared the phenotypes of the two null mouse groups with each other and with their wild-type counterparts.

Results

B3gnt5gene knockout mutant mice appeared normal in the embryonic stage and, if they survived delivery, remained normal during early life. However, about 9% developed early-stage growth retardation, 11% died postnatally in less than 2 months, and adults tended to die in 5-15 months, demonstrating splenomegaly and notably enlarged lymph nodes. Without lacto-neolacto series gangliosides, both homozygous and heterozygous mice gradually displayed fur loss or obesity, and breeding mice demonstrated reproductive defects. Furthermore,B3gnt5gene knockout disrupted the functional integrity of B cells, as manifested by a decrease in B-cell numbers in the spleen, germinal center disappearance, and less efficiency to proliferate in hybridoma fusion.

Conclusions

These novel results demonstrate unequivocally that lacto-neolacto series gangliosides are essential to multiple physiological functions, especially the control of reproductive output, and spleen B-cell abnormality. We also report the generation of anti-IgG response against the lacto-series gangliosides 3'-isoLM1 and 3',6'-isoLD1.
A novel syndrome of paediatric cataract, dysmorphism, ectodermal features, and developmental delay in Australian Aboriginal family maps to 1p35.3-p36.32
Authors: Hattersley Kathryn , Laurie Kate J , Liebelt Jan E , Gecz Jozef , Durkin Shane R , Craig Jamie E , Burdon Kathryn P
Published: November 2010

Background

A novel phenotype consisting of cataract, mental retardation, erythematous skin rash and facial dysmorphism was recently described in an extended pedigree of Australian Aboriginal descent. Large scale chromosomal re-arrangements had previously been ruled out. We have conducted a genome-wide scan to map the linkage region in this family.

Methods

Genome-wide linkage analysis using Single Nucleotide Polymorphism (SNP) markers on the Affymetrix 10K SNP array was conducted and analysed using MERLIN. Three positional candidate genes (ZBTB17, EPHA2 and EPHB2) were sequenced to screen for segregating mutations.

Results

Under a fully penetrant, dominant model, the locus for this unique phenotype was mapped to chromosome 1p35.3-p36.32 with a maximum LOD score of 2.41. The critical region spans 48.7 cM between markers rs966321 and rs1441834 and encompasses 527 transcripts from 364 annotated genes. No coding mutations were identified in three positional candidate genes EPHA2, EPHB2 or ZBTB17. The region overlaps with a previously reported region for Volkmann cataract and the phenotype has similarity to that reported for 1p36 monosomy.

Conclusions

The gene for this syndrome is located in a 25.6 Mb region on 1p35.3-p36.32. The known cataract gene in this region (EPHA2) does not harbour mutations in this family, suggesting that at least one additional gene for cataract is present in this region.
Therapy with un-engineered naïve rat umbilical cord matrix stem cells markedly inhibits growth of murine lung adenocarcinoma
Authors: Maurya Dharmendra K , Doi Chiyo , Kawabata Atsushi , Pyle Marla M , King Clay , Wu Zhihong , Troyer Deryl , Tamura Masaaki
Published: November 2010

Background

Lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer-related mortality despite continuous efforts to find effective treatments. Data from the American Cancer Society indicate that while the overall incidence of lung cancer is declining, it continues to rise in women. Stem cell-based therapy has been an emerging strategy to treat various diseases. The purpose of this paper is to determine the efficacy of an intrinsic anti-cancer effect of rat umbilical cord matrix stem cells (UCMSCs) on lung cancer.

Methods

A mouse syngeneic lung carcinoma model was used to test the basic ability of UCMSCs to control the growth of lung cancer. Lung tumors were experimentally induced by tail vein administration of Lewis lung carcinoma (LLC) cells derived from the lung of C57BL/6 mouse. Rat UCMSCs were then administered intratracheally five days later or intravenously on days 5 and 7. The tumor burdens were determined by measuring lung weight three weeks after the treatment.

Results

Co-culture of rat UCMSCs with LLC significantly attenuated the proliferation of LLC cells as monitored by MTT (3-(4,5-Dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide), a tetrazole cell proliferation assay, thymidine uptake, and direct cell counts.In vitrocolony assays with rat UCMSCs as feeder layers markedly reduced LLC colony size and number. Co-culture of rat UCMSCs with LLCs causes G0/G1 arrest of cancer cells. This is evident in the decrease of cyclin A and CDK2 expression. Thein vivostudies showed that rat UCMSC treatment significantly decreased tumor weight and the total tumor mass. Histological study revealed that intratracheally or systemically administered rat UCMSCs homed to tumor areas and survived for at least 3 weeks without any evidence of differentiation or adverse effects.

Conclusions

These results indicate that rat UCMSCs alone remarkably attenuate the growth of lung carcinoma cellsin vitroand in a mouse syngeneic lung carcinoma graft model and could be used for targeted cytotherapy for lung cancer.
p21WAF1/CIP1 gene transcriptional activation exerts cell growth inhibition and enhances chemosensitivity to cisplatin in lung carcinoma cell
Authors: Wei Junxia , Zhao Jiang , Long Min , Han Yuan , Wang Xi , Lin Fang , Ren Jihong , He Ting , Zhang Huizhong
Published: November 2010

Background

Non-small-cell lung carcinomas (NSCLCs) exhibit poor prognosis and are usually resistant to conventional chemotherapy. Absence of p21WAF1/CIP1, a cyclin-dependent kinase (cdk) inhibitor, has been linked to drug resistance in many in vitro cellular models. RNA activation (RNAa) is a transcriptional activation phenomena guided by double-strand RNA (dsRNA) targeting promoter region of target gene.

Methods

In this study, we explored the effect of up-regulation of p21 gene expression on drug-resistance in A549 non-small-cell lung carcinoma cells by transfecting the dsRNA targeting the promoter region of p21 into A549 cells.

Results

Enhanced p21 expression was observed in A549 cells after transfection of dsRNA, which was correlated with a significant growth inhibition and enhancement of chemosensitivity to cisplatin in A549 cells in vitro. Moreover, in vivo experiment showed that saRNA targeting the promoter region of p21 could significantly inhibit A549 xenograft tumor growth.

Conclusions

These results indicate that p21 plays a role in lung cancer drug-resistance process. In addition, this study also provides evidence for the usage of saRNA as a therapeutic option for up-regulating lower-expression genes in lung cancer.
A randomized phase III study of the docetaxel/carboplatin combination versus docetaxel single-agent as second line treatment for patients with advanced/metastatic Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Pallis Athanasios G , Agelaki Sophia , Agelidou Athina , Varthalitis Ioannis , Syrigos Kostas , Kentepozidis Nikolaos , Pavlakou Georgia , Kotsakis Athanasios , Kontopodis Emmanouel , Georgoulias Vassilis
Published: November 2010

Background

To compare the activity and toxicity of docetaxel/carboplatin (DC) doublet vs single agent docetaxel (D) as second-line treatment in patients with advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).

Methods

Patients pre-treated with front-line platinum-free regimens, were randomized to receive either docetaxel/carboplatin (DC), (docetaxel 50 mg/m2; carboplatin AUC4; both drugs administered on days 1 and 15) or docetaxel single-agent (D), (docetaxel 50 mg/m2 on days 1 and 15).

Results

Response rate was similar between the two arms (DC vs D: 10.4% vs 7.7%; p = 0.764). After a median follow-up time of 28.0 months for DC arm and 34.5 months for D arm, progression free survival (PFS) was significantly higher in the DC arm (DC vs D:3.33 months vs 2.60 months; p-value = 0.012), while no significant difference was observed in terms of overall survival (OS) (DC vs D: 10.3 months vs 7.70 months; p-value = 0.550). Chemotherapy was well-tolerated and grade III/IV toxicities were relatively infrequent. No toxic deaths were observed.

Conclusions

This study has not achieved its primary objective of significant OS prolongation with docetaxel/carboplatin combination over single-agent docetaxel in patients who had not received front-line docetaxel; however, the docetaxel/carboplatin combination was associated with a significant clinical benefit in terms of PFS.
Baculovirus display of single chain antibody (scFv) using a novel signal peptide
Authors: Kitidee Kuntida , Nangola Sawitree , Gonzalez Gaëlle , Boulanger Pierre , Tayapiwatana Chatchai , Hong Saw-See
Published: November 2010

Background

Cells permissive to virus can become refractory to viral replication upon intracellular expression of single chain fragment variable (scFv) antibodies directed towards viral structural or regulatory proteins, or virus-coded enzymes. For example, an intrabody derived from MH-SVM33, a monoclonal antibody against a conserved C-terminal epitope of the HIV-1 matrix protein (MAp17), was found to exert an inhibitory effect on HIV-1 replication.

Results

Two versions of MH-SVM33-derived scFv were constructed in recombinant baculoviruses (BVs) and expressed in BV-infected Sf9 cells, N-myristoylation-competent scFvG2/p17 and N-myristoylation-incompetent scFvE2/p17 protein, both carrying a C-terminal HA tag. ScFvG2/p17 expression resulted in an insoluble, membrane-associated protein, whereas scFvE2/p17 was recovered in both soluble and membrane-incorporated forms. When coexpressed with the HIV-1 Pr55Gag precursor, scFvG2/p17 and scFvE2/p17 did not show any detectable negative effect on virus-like particle (VLP) assembly and egress, and both failed to be encapsidated in VLP. However, soluble scFvE2/p17 isolated from Sf9 cell lysates was capable of binding to its specific antigen, in the form of a synthetic p17 peptide or as Gag polyprotein-embedded epitope. Significant amounts of scFvE2/p17 were released in the extracellular medium of BV-infected cells in high-molecular weight, pelletable form. This particulate form corresponded to BV particles displaying scFvE2/p17 molecules, inserted into the BV envelope via the scFv N-terminal region. The BV-displayed scFvE2/p17 molecules were found to be immunologically functional, as they reacted with the C-terminal epitope of MAp17. Fusion of the N-terminal 18 amino acid residues from the scFvE2/p17 sequence (N18E2) to another scFv recognizing CD147 (scFv-M6-1B9) conferred the property of BV-display to the resulting chimeric scFv-N18E2/M6.

Conclusion

Expression of scFvE2/p17 in insect cells using a BV vector resulted in baculoviral progeny displaying scFvE2/p17. The function required for BV envelope incorporation was carried by the N-terminal octadecapeptide of scFvE2/p17, which acted as a signal peptide for BV display. Fusion of this peptide to the N-terminus of scFv molecules of interest could be applied as a general method for BV-display of scFv in a GP64- and VSV-G-independent manner.
Modeling and simulation of the main metabolism in Escherichia coli and its several single-gene knockout mutants with experimental verification
Authors: Kadir Tuty Asmawaty Abdul , Mannan Ahmad A , Kierzek Andrzej M , McFadden Johnjoe , Shimizu Kazuyuki
Published: November 2010

Background

It is quite important to simulate the metabolic changes of a cell in response to the change in culture environment and/or specific gene knockouts particularly for the purpose of application in industry. If this could be done, the cell design can be made without conducting exhaustive experiments, and one can screen out the promising candidates, proceeded by experimental verification of a select few of particular interest. Although several models have so far been proposed, most of them focus on the specific metabolic pathways. It is preferred to model the whole of the main metabolic pathways in Escherichia coli, allowing for the estimation of energy generation and cell synthesis, based on intracellular fluxes and that may be used to characterize phenotypic growth.

Results

In the present study, we considered the simulation of the main metabolic pathways such as glycolysis, TCA cycle, pentose phosphate (PP) pathway, and the anapleorotic pathways using enzymatic reaction models of E. coli. Once intracellular fluxes were computed by this model, the specific ATP production rate, the specific CO2 production rate, and the specific NADPH production rate could be estimated. The specific ATP production rate thus computed was used for the estimation of the specific growth rate. The CO2 production rate could be used to estimate cell yield, and the specific NADPH production rate could be used to determine the flux of the oxidative PP pathway. The batch and continuous cultivations were simulated where the changing patterns of extracellular and intra-cellular metabolite concentrations were compared with experimental data. Moreover, the effects of the knockout of such pathways as Ppc, Pck and Pyk on the metabolism were simulated. It was shown to be difficult for the cell to grow in Ppc mutant due to low concentration of OAA, while Pck mutant does not necessarily show this phenomenon. The slower growth rate of the Ppc mutant was properly estimated by taking into account the lower specific ATP production rate. In the case of Pyk mutant, the enzyme level regulation was made clear such that Pyk knockout caused PEP concentration to be up-regulated and activated Ppc, which caused the increase in MAL concentration and backed up reduced PYR through Mez, resulting in the phenotypic growth characteristics similar to the wild type.

Conclusions

It was shown to be useful to simulate the main metabolism of E. coli for understanding metabolic changes inside the cell in response to specific pathway gene knockouts, considering the whole main metabolic pathways. The comparison of the simulation result with the experimental data indicates that the present model could simulate the effect of the specific gene knockouts to the changes in the metabolisms to some extent.
Lifetime risks of specific breast cancer subtypes among women in four racial/ethnic groups
Authors: Kurian Allison W , Fish Kari , Shema Sarah J , Clarke Christina A
Published: November 2010

Introduction

Breast cancer comprises clinically distinct subtypes, but most risk statistics consider breast cancer only as a single entity. To estimate subtype-specific lifetime breast cancer risks, we took advantage of population-based data for which information regarding tumor expression of estrogen receptor (ER), progesterone receptor (PR) and HER2/neu (HER2) was newly available.

Methods

We included women whose breast cancer was diagnosed in the state of California from 2006 to 2007 and was reported to the National Cancer Institute's Surveillance, Epidemiology and End Results Program (N = 40,936). We calculated absolute lifetime and age-specific probabilities (percent, 95% confidence interval) of developing breast cancer subtypes defined by ER, PR, and HER2 status - luminal (ER and/or PR-positive, HER2-negative), HER2-positive (ER and PR-positive or negative, HER2-positive), and triple-negative (ER-negative, PR-negative, and HER2-negative) - separately for white, black, Hispanic, and Asian women.

Results

The luminal breast cancer subtype predominates across racial/ethnic groups, with lifetime risk lowest in Hispanic women (4.60%, 4.41-4.80%) and highest in white women (8.10%, 7.94-8.20%). HER2-positive breast cancer varies less by race (1.56-1.91%). Lifetime risk of triple-negative breast cancer is highest in black women (1.98%, 1.80-2.17%), compared to 0.77% (0.67-0.88%) for Asians, 1.04% (0.96-1.13%) for Hispanics and 1.25% (1.20-1.30%) for whites. Across racial/ethnic groups, nearly half of all luminal breast cancers occur after age 70.

Conclusions

These absolute risk estimates may inform health policy and resource planning across diverse populations, and can help patients and physicians weigh the probabilities of developing specific breast cancer subtypes against competing health risks.
Application of a topological modelling approach of multi-body system dynamics to simulation of multi-floating cranes in shipyards
Authors: Cha J-H , Ham S-H , Lee K-Y , Roh M-I
Published: November 2010

A heavy cargo such as a ship block weighing over 5000 tons is erected by multi-floating cranes in a shipyard. In this study, the coupled equations of motion of the floating cranes and the cargo are set up automatically by topological modelling approach of multi-body system dynamics for analysing the dynamic response of a cargo. The non-linear hydrostatic force with wave elevation, the linear hydrodynamic force, wire rope force, and gravitational force are regarded as external forces. The tension of wire ropes connecting the floating cranes and the cargo is calculated for waves with various directions and amplitudes. To evaluate the applicability of the proposed method, it is applied to a dynamic simulation problem of heavy cargo suspended from two floating cranes and a sub-barge between two cranes. In the results of the simulation, waves with 90° direction is more important to the tension of the wire ropes than the waves with 0° and 45° directions, and the ratio of the tension to the wave amplitude is calculated.
A tool to measure whether business management capacity in general practice impacts on the quality of chronic illness care
Authors: Holton Christine H , Proudfoot Judith G , Jayasinghe Upali W , Grimm Jane , Bubner Tanya K , Winstanley Julie , Harris Mark F , Beilby Justin J
Published: November 2010

Our aim was to develop a tool to identify specific features of the business and financial management of practices that facilitate better quality care for chronic illness in primary care.

Domains of management were identified, resulting in the development of a structured interview tool that was administered in 97 primary care practices in Australia. Interview items were screened and subjected to factor analysis, subscales identified and the overall model fit determined. The instrument's validity was assessed against another measure of quality of care.

Analysis provided a four-factor solution containing 21 items, which explained 42.5% of the variance in the total scores. The factors related to administrative processes, human resources, marketing analysis and business development. All scores increased significantly with practice size. The business development subscale and total score were higher for rural practices. There was a significant correlation between the business development subscale and quality of care.

The indicators of business and financial management in the final tool appear to be useful predictors of the quality of care. The instrument may help inform policy regarding the structure of general practice and implementation of a systems approach to chronic illness care. It can provide information to practices about areas for further development.
Homogeneity of the German Diagnosis-Related Groups
Authors: Stausberg Jürgen , Kiefer Emanuel
Published: November 2010

This study analysed the outstanding homogeneity of the German Diagnosis-Related Groups (G-DRG) using the reduction in variance ( R2) of costs. Arbitrary increase in case groups, definition of additional charges and combination of several case groups in one DRG were considered as potential confounders. In 2009, the G-DRG-system offers an outstanding homogeneity with R2 of 83.5% in comparison to 2004 with R2 of 70.2%. The effect of an arbitrary increase in case groups is negligible. However, a simulation of the other confounders explains three-fourth of the increase in R2 between 2004 and 2009. The definition of additional charges attributes in particular to the outstanding homogeneity. The assessment of DRG-systems with R2 should be complemented with measures that are independent from a trimming of costs, e.g. relating actual costs with prospective payment. The G-DRGs left medical ground in order to achieve optimal economical homogeneity.
The rise of governmentality in the Italian National Health System: physiology or pathology of a decentralized and (ongoing) federalist system?
Authors: Lega Federico , Sargiacomo Massimo , Ianni Luca
Published: November 2010

In this paper, we aim to discuss the implications and lessons that can be learnt from the ongoing process of federalism affecting the Italian National Health System (INHS). Many countries are currently taking decisions concerning the decentralization or re-centralization of their health-care systems, with several key issues that are illustrated in the recent history of the INHS. The decentralization process of INHS has produced mixed results, as some regions took advantage of it to strengthen their systems, whereas others were not capable of developing an effective steering role. We argue that the mutual reinforcement of the decentralization and recentralization processes is not paradoxical, but is actually an effective way for the State to maintain control over the equity and efficiency of its health-care system while decentralizing at a regional level. In this perspective, we provide evidence backing up some of the assumptions made in previous works as well as new food-for thought – specifically on how governmentality and federalism should meet – to reshape the debate on decentralization in health care.
Gardnerella vaginalis septicaemia with pyelonephritis, infective endocarditis and septic emboli in the kidney and brain of an adult male
Authors: Yoon H J , Chun J , Kim J-H , Kang S-S , Na D-J
Published: November 2010

Gardnerella vaginalis is typically associated with bacterial vaginosis in women. However, balanitis, urethritis, urinary tract infections and asymptomatic bacteraemia have also been described in men. Here we report a case of G. vaginalis septicaemia with infective endocarditis and septic emboli in the kidney and brain of an adult male.
Effects on condom use of an HIV prevention programme 36 months postintervention: a cluster randomized controlled trial among Bahamian youth
Authors: Chen X , Stanton B , Gomez P , Lunn S , Deveaux L , Brathwaite N , Li X , Marshall S , Cottrell L , Harris C
Published: November 2010

Data are lacking on long-term effects of HIV behavioural intervention programmes. In this study, we report intervention effects 36 months postintervention on condom use and relevant outcome variables from the theory-based programme ‘Focus on Youth in the Caribbean’ (FOYC). Participants (1360 sixth-grade youth) were randomized by school into: (1) FOYC, plus one of two brief parent interventions or (2) the control condition ‘Wondrous Wetlands’, plus a brief parent intervention. Mixed effect analysis demonstrated significant programme effects, including enhanced HIV/AIDS knowledge (effect size D = 0.44, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.43, 0.46), increased self-efficacy of ( D = 0.42, 95% CI: 0.30, 0.54), skills for ( D = 0.62, 95% CI: 0.56, 0.64) and intention to use a condom ( D = 0.20, 95% CI: 0.03, 0.37). Youth who received FOYC plus the parental monitoring intervention had higher condom use rates (odds ratio = 1.49, 95% CI: 0.97, 2.28). Feedback effects from key variables were also detected, supporting the sustained effect.
Trichomonas vaginalis: an unusual presentation
Authors: Mitchell L , Hussey J
Published: November 2010

We report a case of Trichomonas vaginalis (TV) presenting as vulval ulceration in a 41-year-old woman. There was complete resolution of her symptoms only after oral tinidazole. The delayed diagnosis and importance of using the correct tests for the diagnosis of TV are discussed.
Comparison of dipyrone/propofol versus fentanyl/propofol anaesthesia during surgery in rabbits
Authors: Baumgartner C , Koenighaus H , Ebner J , Henke J , Schuster T , Erhardt W
Published: November 2010

In this study, the investigation of the intraoperative effects of dipyrone (metamizol) on heart rate (HR), mean arterial pressure (MAP) and analgesic efficacy in rabbits is described for the first time. This was carried out to evaluate the cardiovascular stability achieved using dipyrone compared with fentanyl. In this prospective study, 17 female New Zealand White rabbits were randomly allocated to either one of two groups: dipyrone/propofol (DP) or fentanyl/propofol (FP). Anaesthesia was induced in both groups using propofol to effect (4.0–8.0 mg/kg intravenously) until the swallowing reflex was lost for intubation. After induction, anaesthesia was maintained with continuous infusion of propofol 1.5–1.7 mg/kg/min intravenously. Analgesics were then injected in defined boluses of either dipyrone 65 mg/kg or fentanyl 0.0053 mg/kg. After surgical tolerance, defined as loss of the ear pinch reflex and loss of the anterior and posterior pedal withdrawal reflex, was achieved, two surgical procedures were performed. The surgical procedures (implantation of either a pacemaker or an electrocardiogram transmitter), both require a comparable level of analgesic depth. During and after surgery, clinical variables, such as MAP, HR, peripheral arterial oxygen saturation (SpO2) and end-tidal CO2(Pe′CO2) were recorded simultaneously every 2 min. Eight time points were chosen for comparison: baseline, surgical tolerance (ST), values at 10, 20 and 30 min after reaching ST, values at the end of propofol infusion (EI) and data at 10 and 20 min after EI. Both FP and DP combinations provided effective anaesthesia and analgesia in rabbits. In both groups a significant decrease of HR and MAP was measured. The results of this study indicate that the non-opioid drug dipyrone produces similar analgesic and even better cardiovascular effects by trend in rabbits. Therefore we conclude that dipyrone in combination with propofol can be used as an alternative to FP for intraoperative analgesia.
Leprosy: down but not out
Authors: Sachdeva Sandeep , Khan Zulfia , Ansari Mohd Athar , Amin Syed Suhail
Published: November 2010

Leprosy is a chronic disabling disease and there are areas of high endemicity in India. Case findings and management strategies suffer a setback when disease manifestations are not picked up in time by health-care providers. This article attempts to estimate the annual incidents of leprosy and to study the confounding factors which may potentially cause delays in diagnosis in an office-based, tertiary health-care setting.
Biosorption of Manganese(II) Ions from Aqueous Solution by Glutaraldehyde Cross-Linked Chitosan Beads: Equilibrium and Kinetic Studies
Authors: Suguna Madala , Reddy Alla Subba , Kumar Nadavala Siva , Krishnaiah Abburi
Published: November 2010

The biosorption of manganese(II) ions from aqueous solution by glutaraldehyde cross-linked chitosan (GCC) was studied under equilibrium conditions. The biosorbent was characterised by FT-IR spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) methods. The effects of the variable experimental parameters such as pH, metal ion concentration, adsorbent amount, contact time and temperature on the adsorption process were investigated. The equilibrium adsorption data were interpreted via the Freundlich, Langmuir and Sips isotherm models. Based on the error function values, the kinetic data were fitted to a better extent by the pseudo-second-order kinetic model and the chemisorption model, relative to the pseudo-first-order, fractional order and Weber–Morris models. The monolayer adsorption capacity of GCC as obtained from the Langmuir isotherm at 25 °C was found to be 278 mg/g. Thermodynamic studies indicated that the adsorption process was spontaneous (ΔG0 < 0) and exothermic (ΔH0 < 0).
Effect of pH on the Adsorption of Uranyl Ions by Peat Moss
Authors: Zhirong Liu , Shaoqi Zhou
Published: November 2010

The removal of uranyl ions from aqueous solutions with peat moss was investigated by batch methods. The effects of factors such as the pH, ionic strength, contact time, peat moss dosage and humic acid concentration on uranyl ion adsorption were studied. The results indicated that the adsorption of uranyl ions onto peat moss increased with increasing pH within the range 2–6, with higher humic acid concentrations and with decreasing ionic strength. The kinetics of the adsorption process were well described by the Elovich equation, while the equilibrium adsorption isotherm was fitted reasonably well by the Freundlich adsorption model. The calculated fractal dimension of granular peat moss was 2.3384.
Switching Costs, Network Effects, and Competition in the European Mobile Telecommunications Industry
Authors: Fuentelsaz Lucio , Maicas Juan Pablo , Polo Yolanda
Published: November 2010

This paper empirically analyzes the joint effect of switching costs and network effects in determining the level of competition in the European mobile communications industry. Theoretical reasoning argues that switching costs and network effects may confer some market power that firms can strategically exploit to reduce competition and thus increase profits. Theoretical predictions are completely confirmed by the empirical evidence and important asymmetries between the market structures in the different European countries can be observed. These asymmetries are clearly related to the levels of switching costs and network effects—the greater their importance, the lower the rivalry in the market. This suggests that the recent efforts of policymakers to reduce the negative consequences of switching costs and network effects have not been successful enough and these efforts must be strengthened, at least in several countries.
A Hidden Markov Model of Developer Learning Dynamics in Open Source Software Projects
Authors: Singh Param Vir , Tan Yong , Youn Nara
Published: November 2010

This study develops a stochastic model to capture developer learning dynamics in open source software projects (OSS). A hidden Markov model (HMM) is proposed that allows us to investigate (1) the extent to which individuals learn from their own experience and from interactions with peers, (2) whether an individual's ability to learn from these activities varies as she evolves/learns over time, and (3) to what extent individual learning persists over time. We calibrate the model based on six years of detailed data collected from 251 developers working on 25 OSS projects hosted at Sourceforge. Using the HMM, three latent learning states (high, medium, and low) are identified, and the marginal impact of learning activities on moving the developer between these states is estimated. Our findings reveal different patterns of learning in different learning states. Learning from peers appears to be the most important source of learning for developers across the three states. Developers in the medium learning state benefit the most through discussions that they initiate. On the other hand, developers in the low and the high states benefit the most by participating in discussions started by others. While in the low state, developers depend entirely upon their peers to learn, whereas in the medium or high state, they can also draw upon their own experiences. Explanations for these varying impacts of learning activities on the transitions of developers between the three learning states are provided. The HMM is shown to outperform the classical learning curve model. The HMM modeling of this study contributes to the development of a theoretically grounded understanding of learning behavior of individuals. Such a theory and associated findings have important managerial and operational implications for devising interventions to promote learning in a variety of settings.
Determining Optimal CRM Implementation Strategies
Authors: Kim Seung Hyun , Mukhopadhyay Tridas
Published: November 2010

Although companies have spent a great deal of money to adopt CRM (customer relationship management) technologies, many have not seen satisfactory returns on their CRM implementations. We study optimal CRM implementation strategies and the impact of CRM investments on profitability. For our analysis, we classify CRM technologies into two broad categories: targeting-related and support-related technologies. While targeting CRM improves the success rate of distinguishing between nonloyal and loyal customers, support CRM increases the probability of retaining the loyalty of existing customers. We also consider the costs of implementing each CRM type separately as well as both types simultaneously. We show that the optimal CRM implementation strategy depends on the initial mass of loyal customers and diseconomies of scale in simultaneous implementation. We also find that the two types of CRM technologies are substitutive rather than complementary in generating revenue. We discuss why it is difficult to avoid overinvestments in CRM when the nature of the investments is misunderstood. We study the optimal CRM implementation scope and the impact of different types of CRM on customers. We develop a model that not only considers both the revenue and costs sides but is also helpful in determining the deployment of right CRM technology in the right scope.
Research Commentary—Sponsored Search and Market Efficiency
Authors: Dhar Vasant , Ghose Anindya
Published: November 2010

Sponsored search is the mechanism whereby advertisers pay a fee to Internet search engines to be displayed alongside organic (nonsponsored) web search results. Based on prior literature, we draw an analogy between these markets and financial markets. We use the analogy as well as the key differences to present a theoretical framework consisting of a set of research questions about the pricing of keywords and design choices available to firms in sponsored search markets. These questions define an agenda for future research in sponsored search markets. They also have practical implications for advertisers and online marketplaces such as search engines and social media sites that support advertising.
Research Commentary—Designing Smart Markets
Authors: Bichler Martin , Gupta Alok , Ketter Wolfgang
Published: November 2010

Electronic markets have been a core topic of information systems (IS) research for last three decades. We focus on a more recent phenomenon: smart markets. This phenomenon is starting to draw considerable interdisciplinary attention from the researchers in computer science, operations research, and economics communities. The objective of this commentary is to identify and outline fruitful research areas where IS researchers can provide valuable contributions. The idea of smart markets revolves around using theoretically supported computational tools to both understand the characteristics of complex trading environments and multiechelon markets and help human decision makers make real-time decisions in these complex environments. We outline the research opportunities for complex trading environments primarily from the perspective of design of computational tools to analyze individual market organization and provide decision support in these complex environments. In addition, we present broad research opportunities that computational platforms can provide, including implications for policy and regulatory research.
Research Commentary—The New Organizing Logic of Digital Innovation: An Agenda for Information Systems Research
Authors: Yoo Youngjin , Henfridsson Ola , Lyytinen Kalle
Published: November 2010

In this essay, we argue that pervasive digitization gives birth to a new type of product architecture: the layered modular architecture. The layered modular architecture extends the modular architecture of physical products by incorporating four loosely coupled layers of devices, networks, services, and contents created by digital technology. We posit that this new architecture instigates profound changes in the ways that firms organize for innovation in the future. We develop (1) a conceptual framework to describe the emerging organizing logic of digital innovation and (2) an information systems research agenda for digital strategy and the creation and management of corporate information technology infrastructures.
Research Commentary—Platform Evolution: Coevolution of Platform Architecture, Governance, and Environmental Dynamics
Authors: Tiwana Amrit , Konsynski Benn , Bush Ashley A.
Published: November 2010

The emergence of software-based platforms is shifting competition toward platform-centric ecosystems, although this phenomenon has not received much attention in information systems research. Our premise is that the coevolution of the design, governance, and environmental dynamics of such ecosystems influences how they evolve. We present a framework for understanding platform-based ecosystems and discuss five broad research questions that present significant research opportunities for contributing homegrown theory about their evolutionary dynamics to the information systems discipline and distinctive information technology-artifact-centric contributions to the strategy, economics, and software engineering reference disciplines.