bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A RADIOIMMUNOASSAY FOR GROWTH HORMONE RELEASE‐INHIBITING HORMONE: METHOD AND QUANTITATIVE TISSUE DISTRIBUTION
Authors: KRONHEIM S. , BERELOWITZ M. , PIMSTONE B. L.
Published: March 2008

A specific antiserum has been produced to haemocyanin conjugated synthetic growth hormone release inhibiting hormone (GHRIH). This has allowed the development of a radioimmunoassay for GHRIH sensitive to 5 pg/tube. GHRIH content in 2 m acetic acid extracts of rat tissues have been measured and show the majority to be in CNS—especially hypothalamus and septum and preoptic areas with substantial amounts in spinal cord and thalamus. Extra neurological localization in pancreas, gastric antrum, colon and thyroid have also been demonstrated.
MEASUREMENT OF SERUM 3,3‘,5’‐(REVERSE) T3, WITH COMMENTS ON ITS DERIVATION
Authors: GRIFFITHS R. S. , BLACK E. G. , HOFFENBERG R.
Published: March 2008

A radioimmunoassay for the measurement of l‐3,3′,5′‐triiodothyronine (reverse T3, rT3) has been developed for use with unextracted serum. The highly specific antiserum showed no cross‐reactivity with l‐3,3'5‐triiodothyronine (T3) or tetraiodothyroacetic acid (T4A) and cross‐reaction with l‐thyroxine (T4) was low enough to be discounted for routine assay purposes. If a normal amount of rT3 was added to serum T4 cross‐reactivity decreased considerably. Serial dilutions of hyperthyroid sera gave dose‐response curves which were parallel to the rT3 standard curve. Serum concentrations of rT3 (mean ± SEM) were 0.68 ± 0.02 nmol/1 in sixty‐seven normal subjects, 0.19 ± 0.02 nmol/1 in twelve hypothyroid patients and 1.18 ± 0.12 nmol/1 in seventeen hyperthyroid patients. In sixteen patients with T3‐toxicosis rT3 was 0.42 ± 0.04 nmol/1 and eighteen patients with high circulating TBG had a mean rT3 of 0.54 ± 003 nmol/1.
MEASUREMENT OF PROGESTERONE IN SALIVA: ASSESSMENT OF THE NORMAL FERTILE RANGE USING SPONTANEOUS CONCEPTION CYCLES
Authors: LENTON E. A. , GELSTHORP C. H. , HARPER R.
Published: March 2008

The concentration of progesterone in saliva can be used as an alternative to the measurement of the hormone in plasma because the steroid profiles are qualitatively, although not quantitatively, similar. Reference values for concentrations of the hormone during the luteal phase have been established using data derived from selected, apparently normal women, some of whom conceived in the study cycle. Six to eight days after the LH surge salivary progesterone values of 300–800 pmol/l can be regarded as ‘normal’ and can therefore be used as a reference for the clinical assessment of infertile women. Moreover, since there is a significant within‐subject, between‐cycle correlation (P < 0.001) in salivary progesterone index values, the clinical information derived from one cycle is likely to be representative for that individual.
Divergent effects of methylxanthines and adenylate cyclase agonists on monocyte cytotoxicity and cyclic AMP levels
Authors: HERLIN TROELS , KRAGBALLE KNUD
Published: March 2008

Abstract. Abstract. The effects of theophylline, isobutylmethyl‐xanthine (IBMX), prostaglandin El (PGE,), and iso‐proterenol on monocyte antibody‐dependent cytotoxi‐city (ADCC) were compared with their effects on monocyte cyclic adenosine 3′:5′‐monophosphate (CAMP) levels. Theophylline (2 mmol/l) halved ADCC and gave a 2‐fold increase in cAMP levels. At concen‐trations not elevating cAMP theophylline inhibited ADCC significantly. In comparison, incubation of monocytes with IBMX, PGEl and isoproterenol ADCC was only modestly inhibited while these agents gave larger increments (3‐to 8‐fold) in cAMP levels than theophylline did. Low concentrations of IBMX (50 pmol/l) elevated cAMP without affecting mono‐cyte ADCC whereas PGE, and isoproterenol inhibited ADCC dose‐dependently comparable to increases in CAMP. However, in doses giving similar inhibition of ADCC addition of PGEl resulted in larger cAMP increments than isoproterenol. The effects of IBMX, PGEl and isoproterenol was dependent on target cell to effector cell ratio and increased during preincuba‐tion with the agents. The inhibition of ADCC by the agents was accompanied by a depressed monocyte lysozyme release and depressed activation of hexose monophosphate shunt. However, only theophylline affected monocyte attachment to sensitized target cells. These results argue against the general inverse relationship between cAMP content and inhibition of monocyte ADCC and demonstrate that theophylline independent on increases in cAMP inhibits ADCC probably by abrogation of monocyte binding activity.
Tetrahydroxylated bile acids in healthy human newborns
Authors: STRANDVIK BIRGITTA , WIKSTRÖM S‐Å.
Published: March 2008

Abstract. Urine was collected in four healthy infants, born after 35–39 weeks of gestation. The collections were made for 24 h starting immediately after birth. Bile acids were extracted, separated into conjugate groups, solvolysed, hydrolysed and quantified by gas–liquid chromatography as methyl ester trimethylsilyl ether derivatives. Identification was made by gas‐liquid chromatography‐mass spectrometry.

Cholic acid was the predominating primary bile acid. Non‐sulphated tetrahydroxylated bile acids, tentatively identified as 1,3,7,12‐and 3,6,7,12‐tetrahydroxycholanoic acids, were present in almost the same amounts as cholic acid. A previously unknown tetrahydroxylated cholanoic acid, which might be 2‐hydroxylated hyocholic acid, was found in all infants in similar amounts. 3β‐Hydroxy‐5‐cholenoic acid was present in the sulphate fraction in the urine from all infants. Lithocholic acid was not found. Small amounts of allo and 6‐hydroxylated bile acids were mainly found in the sulphate fraction. Bile acids hydroxylated in the 1‐position were found predominantly in the taurine fraction.
Changes after arterial reconstruction in the forefoot local vasoconstrictor response to increased venous transmural pressure
Authors: EICKHOFF JENS H. , ENGELL HANS C.
Published: March 2008

Abstract. Local blood flow regulation on the forefoot was studied by the 133Xe wash‐out technique in twenty‐seven patients before and after arterial reconstruction for occlusive arterial disease. In thirteen limbs with severe symptoms the local vasoconstrictor response to increased venous pressure was absent preoperatively, as blood flow in the foot increased in median by 47% when the foot was lowered 40 cm below the heart. Three months postoperatively the vasoconstrictor response had returned as blood flow decreased 28% during lowering. Fourteen limbs with milder symptoms had a vasoconstrictor response before operation. In nine limbs of this group treated with aortoiliac reconstruction the vasoconstrictor response was absent at the early postoperative examination, but the response returned till the late examination. It is concluded that the local vasoconstrictor response is normalized after arterial reconstruction. Disturbances may, however, occur in the postoperative period, possibly due to operative stress.
Serum levels of C‐reactive protein in Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis
Authors: FAGAN E. A. , DYCK R. F. , MATON P. N. , HODGSON H. J. F. , CHADWICK V. S. , PETRIE AVIVA , PEPYS M. B.
Published: March 2008

Abstract. Prospective measurements were made of serum C‐reactive protein levels and erythrocyte sedimentation rate in sixty‐four patients with Crohn's disease and fifty with ulcerative colitis. The results were related to clinical assessment of disease activity. C‐reactive protein levels were raised in both groups but were significantly higher in Crohn's disease than ulcerative colitis for all categories of disease severity: with mild disease the median and range of C‐reactive protein concentration were 4, 0–65 mg/l in Crohn's disease v. 0, 0–15 mg/l in ulcerative colitis, P<0·01; in moderate disease the values were 15, 1–100 mg/l v. 3, 0–29 mg/l respectively, P<0·05 and in cases of severe disease, 85, 15–183 mg/l v. 12, 2–33 mg/l respectively, P<0·001. Erythrocyte sedimentation rate was also higher in Crohn's disease but did not closely reflect disease activity in individual patients. C‐reactive protein levels corresponded closely with clinical and pathological indices of relapse, remission and response to therapy in patients with Crohn's disease. The precise assay of serum C‐reactive protein provides an objective criterion of inflammatory activity, which may be useful in the assessment, management and study of Crohn's disease.
UV treatment of uraemic pruritus reduces the vitamin A content of the skin
Authors: BERNE BERIT , VAHLQUIST ANDERS , FISCHER TORKEL , DANIELSON BO G. , BERNE CHRISTIAN
Published: March 2008

Abstract. The effect of phototherapy on uraemic pruritus and vitamin A content in serum and epidermis was investigated in ten patients with chronic renal failure. The patients and five healthy controls were given repeated whole‐body irradiation of UV‐A + UV‐B (total dose 7·9 + 1·3 J cm‐2). Serum and skin samples were obtained before and after the treatment. Serum samples were analysed for retinol, retinol‐binding protein and carotene and epidermis samples for retinol, 3‐dehydroretinol and carotene. Before treatment, the retinol concentrations in serum and epidermis were higher in patients than in controls. The treatment, which relieved seven patients of pruritus, reduced the epidermal retinol from 11·6 ± 4·5 to 7·0 ± 3·8 nmol g‐1 protein (P < 0·02). A similar reduction occurred in the controls (4·5 ± 1·0 v. 1·7 ± 1.0, P < 0·01). No changes of epidermal 3‐dehydroretinol, carotene or the serum parameters occurred in either patients or controls. The putative relationship between uraemic pruritus and hypervitaminosis A and the response of this condition to UV therapy is discussed.
Earthlearningidea—ideas for the International Year of Planet Earth
Authors: King Chris , Kennett Peter , Devon Elizabeth
Published: March 2008

‘Earthlearningidea’ will be putting up a new idea for learning about the Earth every week during 2008—the International Year of Planet Earth. The ideas are aimed at teacher trainers in science and geography who will be training teachers in the teaching of Earth science—but we hope they will be widely used by classroom teachers who have access to the internet too. A blog runs alongside them aiming to build up a worldwide discussion network of Earth science educators. Help us circulate Earthlearningideas around the globe!
A living Mars?
Authors: Dartnell Lewis
Published: March 2008

The possibility of a living Mars is deeply ingrained in popular culture. The observations of the astronomer Percival Lowell, and his interpretation that these canals were built to channel melt‐water from the polar regions down to the dying cities and farms huddled around the equator, are well known. Even into the 1960s, textbooks were being published that explained the temporal variation in surface brightness as due to the seasonal spread of vegetation. Martians are the science‐fiction writer's alien invader of choice, from the heat‐ray‐wielding tripods of H.G. Wells to the bulbous‐headed aggressors of Tim Burton's 1996 film Mars Attacks. With the armada of robotic probes currently orbiting and roving across the red planet, Mars has never been so forefront in the public eye. Much of this interest is focussed on the possibility that our planetary neighbour has supported an independent genesis of life, and that in certain regions it may remain habitable even to this day. A selection of some of the most recent results and discoveries concerning the astrobiological potential of Mars are discussed.
Dry nitrogen deposition estimates over a forest experiencing free air CO2 enrichment
Authors: SPARKS JED P. , WALKER JOHN , TURNIPSEED ANDREW , GUENTHER ALEX
Published: March 2008

The quantification of atmospheric additions of nitrogen (N) to an ecosystem is often desirable, but difficult for many locations including many ecological manipulation experiments. Ideal methodologies for the complete and chemically speciated quantification of dry N deposition (e.g. tunable diode laser absorption spectrometer, thermal‐dissociation laser‐induced fluorescence) are expensive, technologically challenging to maintain, and rarely colocated with important global change manipulation experiments. Here we present an alternative method for obtaining an approximation of total N deposition using short‐term eddy flux and concentration measurements, annual regional concentration estimates, and modeling for the Duke Experimental Forest. The motivation for generating estimates for this location was to inform the long‐term elevated CO2 experiment conducted at Duke Forest. We estimated the total annual atmospheric N deposition to the forest to be 13.7 kg N ha−1. Of this total, ∼58% was in dry‐deposited forms. Surprisingly, and contrary to some previous predictions, nitric acid (HNO3) was not the dominant portion of the total dry‐deposited N, implying strongly that other forms of gaseous N like organic peroxy and alkyl nitrate compounds are a significant portion of the total flux. Furthermore, this study sheds light on the completeness of the estimates derived from Clean Air Status and Trends Network (CASTNet) and other dry deposition networks. CASTNet does not measure organic forms of dry deposition. In fact, CASTNet only quantifies HNO3 in the gas phase and may significantly underestimate total N deposition in many environments.
Spring warming and carbon dioxide exchange over low Arctic tundra in central Canada
Authors: LAFLEUR PETER M. , HUMPHREYS ELYN R.
Published: March 2008

Tundra‐atmosphere exchanges of carbon dioxide (CO2) and water vapour were measured near Daring Lake, Northwest Territories in the Canadian Low Arctic for 3 years, 2004–2006. The measurement period spanned late‐winter until the end of the growing period. Mean temperatures during the measurement period varied from about 2 °C less than historical average in 2004 and 2005 to 2 °C greater in 2006. Much of the added warmth in 2006 occurred at the beginning of the study, when snow melt occurred 3 weeks earlier than in the other years. Total precipitation in 2006 (163 mm) was more than double that of the driest year, 2004 (71 mm). The tundra was a net sink for CO2 carbon in all years. Mid‐summer net ecosystem exchange of CO2 (NEE) achieved maximum values of −1.3 g C m−2 day−1 (2004) to −1.8 g C m−2 day−1 (2006). Accumulated NEE values over the 109‐day period were −32,−51 and −61 g C m−2 in 2004, 2005 and 2006, respectively. The larger CO2 uptake in 2006 was attributed to the early spring coupled with warmer air and soil conditions. In 2004, CO2 uptake was limited by the shorter growing season and mid‐summer dryness, which likely reduced ecosystem productivity. Seasonal total evapotranspiration (ET) ranged from 130 mm (2004) to 181 mm (2006) and varied in accordance with the precipitation received and with the timing of snow melt. Maximum daily ET rates ranged from 2.3 to 2.7 mm day−1, occurring in mid July. Ecosystem water use efficiency (WUEeco) varied slightly between years, ranging from 2.2 in the driest year to 2.5 in the year with intermediate rainfall amounts. In the wettest year, increased soil evaporation may have contributed to a lower WUEeco (2.3). We speculate that most, if not all, of the modest growing season CO2 sink measured at this site could be lost due to fall and winter respiration leading to the tundra being a net CO2 source or CO2 neutral on an annual basis. However, this hypothesis is untested as yet.
Methane bubbles in surface peat cores: in situ measurements
Authors: LAING CHRISTOPHER GRAHAM , SHREEVE TIMOTHY GEORGE , PEARCE DEBORAH MARIE ELIZABETH
Published: March 2008

The quantification of greenhouse gas sources and sinks is important to understanding the impact of climate change. Methane (CH4) is a potent greenhouse gas, which, on a global scale, is released largely as a product of anaerobic microbial decomposition and predominantly from wetlands. A zone of intense CH4 production just below the water table is thought to contribute significantly to the overall flux from peat bogs. We describe the use of membrane inlet quadrupole mass spectrometry (QMS) to confirm the existence of bubbles, their gaseous concentrations and their localization at a fine spatial resolution within intact peat cores. We use the distribution of the noble gas argon (Ar) and the distinct QMS responses to dissolved and gaseous (bubble) phases to identify trapped bubbles with a resolution of 0.6 mm. Bubbles with CH4 concentrations of up to 20 kPa were widely distributed in the upper 300 mm of the cores with ∼11% of all profiles comprising bubbles. The dissolved concentrations responsible for the bubbles were on average 83±80 μm, indicating lower concentrations relative to other QMS studies. We suggest that if the distinction between dissolved and gaseous phases is not made in studies of CH4 within peat profiles then the prominence of bubbles is likely to result in overestimates of dissolved CH4 concentrations. Fluxes of CH4 from peat as a result of drawdown or other perturbation are likely to be large, rapid and short lived because of bubble burst, and also larger than from peat without bubbles. We suggest that the dynamics of fluxes need to be modelled taking into account both gaseous and dissolved phases. Estimates of potential fluxes that assume CH4 is dissolved are likely to overestimate fluxes if the gaseous phase has not been taken into account.
On the discipline of information systems
Authors: Backhouse J. , Liebenau J. , Land F.
Published: March 2008

Abstract. Although information systems is growing rapidly, it has little theoretical clarity. An article in the Times Higher Education Supplement of March 1989 by Liebenau and Backhouse sparked a debate on the character of information systems as a discipline. This paper reviews that debate, bringing out the main points of many of the discussants, and presents an analysis which is intended to carry the discussion further in order to help clarify and to galvanize opinion.
Action research in information systems development
Authors: Mansell G.
Published: March 2008

Abstract. Action research is located within a spectrum of problem‐solving activity that ranges from pure basic scientific research, the purpose of which is to add to knowledge, to human action designed to achieve a purpose without thought of contributing to knowledge. Action research both adds to knowledge and applies it in practice. Action research is particularly appropriate information systems development. A number of alternative methodologies for action research exist that make differing philosophical assumptions. A body of theory exists that enables a choice to be made among methodologies. This theory is useful in analysing information system problems.
Managers, spreadsheets and computing growth: contagion or control?
Authors: Mason D. , Willcocks L.
Published: March 2008

Abstract. It is widely accepted that managers do not make the most of the opportunities offered by information technology (IT). This study set out to investigate why by establishing what computing facilities managers actually use, and how they use them. The original hypothesis was that adoption of technology was limited by poor training and lack of interest in IT. We set out to establish empirical findings by interviewing managers face to face at their place of work. An exploratory investigation of this nature must adopt a non‐directive approach which is not amenable to questionnaire‐type survey techniques, and which produces ‘soft’ rather than quantitative data. As the ‘soft’ nature of the data ruled out strict statistical methods we used a ‘search and refine’ technique, to build a structure from all the information we received during the interviews until a clear body of results emerged and could be clarified and confirmed. The research broadly supports the lack of training hypothesis but finds that far from being uninterested, managers are very interested in using IT, but only where it is directly relevant to their own work. The study suggests that training is not enough and must be supplemented by control. The findings support but also refute aspects of Nolan's stage theoy of computing growth. Further research to confirm these findings would be useful, as would comparative studies in organizations where controls on spreadsheets are in place.
Soft systems methodology to information systems: a Wittgensteinian approach
Authors: Gregory F. H.
Published: March 2008

Abstract. A logical foundation for information system design requires a theory of meaning. Ideational theories attach meaning to the ideas in the private world of a conscious subject. By contrast Wittgenstein held that language and meaning were primarily public and that a private, purely subjective, language was impossible. The iterative debate among stake‐holders that takes place in the practice of soft systems methodology (SSM) can be understood as a Wittgensteinian language game in which meaning is created not just discovered. The conceptual models used in SSM can be developed into logico‐linguistic models which express stipulative definitions. These definitions can be taken as a logical basis for information system design.
Soft systems and systems engineering: on the use of conceptual models in information system development
Authors: Doyle K. G. , Wood J. R. G. , Wood‐Harper A. T.
Published: March 2008

Abstract. Many recent studies have shown that computer‐based systems continue to ‘fail’ at a number of different levels (Romtec, 1988; KPMG, 1990) and it is increasingly apparent (Maclaren et al., 1991) that the most serious failures of information technology (IT) lie in the continuing inability to address those concerns which are central to the successful achievement of individual, organizational and social goals. It is the contention of this paper that this failing is precisely because these are the areas which are ignored or inadequately treated by conventional system development methods.

There is, of course, a vast body of literature concerned with the understanding of complex human activity systems. This literature often reflects a mass of contradictions at the epistemological and the ontological level about the behaviour of such systems and has also spawned numerous methods (and methodologies) which seek to guide the individual in making successful interventions into organizational situations (Rosenhead, 1989).

Despite this multiplicity of viewpoints many writers have posited a dichotomy between so‐called 'soft and ‘hard’ approaches to problem situations and use this dichotomy to inform the choice of an appropriate problem‐solving methodology (Checkland, 1985). In this paper we characterize these two approaches as being concerned with either the purpose(s) of the human activity system (i.e. ‘doing the right thing’) or with the design of the efficient means of achieving such purpose(s) (i.e. ‘doing the thing right’).

It is our belief that much of the literature and work in either area has not concerned itself with the issues of the other. Writers on ‘hard’ engineering methods often assume the question of purpose to be either straightforward (e.g. given in the project brief) or, paradoxically, too difficult (e.g. it is not our concern as mere systems analysts). Writers on ‘soft’ methods on the other hand rarely have anything to say about the design and implementation of well‐engineered computer‐based systems, giving the impression that this is a somewhat mundane activity better left to technical experts.

This paper, therefore, attempts to set out a rationale for the bringing together of principles from both ‘hard’ engineering and ‘soft’ inquiry methods without doing epistemological damage to either. To illustrate our argument we concentrate on JSD (Jackson system development) as an example of system engineering (Cameron, 1983) and SSM (soft systems methodology) as an example of system inquiry (Checkland, 1981; Checkland & Scholes, 1990). Our general thesis, however, does not depend upon either of these two approaches per se but applies to the overall issue of bringing together insights from two apparently opposed epistemological positions in an effort better to harness the power of IT in pursuit of purposeful human activity.
On the ontological expressiveness of information systems analysis and design grammars
Authors: Wand Y. , Weber R.
Published: March 2008

Abstract. Information systems analysis and design (ISAD) methodologies provide facilities for describing existing or conceived real‐world systems. These facilities are ontologically expressive if they are capable of describing all real‐world phenomena completely and clearly. In this paper we formally examine the notion of the ontological expressiveness of a grammar and discuss some of its implications for the design and use of ISAD methodologies. We identify some generic ways in which ontological expressiveness may be undermined in a grammar and some potential consequences of these violations. We also examine ontological expressiveness within the context of some other desirable features that might be considered in the design of ISAD methodologies.
The impact of EDI implementation commitment and implementation success on competitive advantage and firm performance
Authors: Rao H. R. , Pegels C. C. , Salam A. F. , Hwang K. T. , Seth V.
Published: March 2008

Abstract. Electronic Data Interchange Systems (EDI) are increasingly being used by business firms to improve operations and customer service. One of the major motivations for business organizations using EDI is to gain a strategic advantage in the marketplace. Although EDI has been implemented by many organizations, unfortunately not all have gained the same level of expected advantage or envisioned benefits.

In this study we focus on the impact of EDI implementation commitment and implementation success on competitive advantage and firm performance. We study two categories of companies: companies that initiate the development of EDI and are known as hub companies and those that are their non‐hub counterparts. Findings indicate that non‐hub firms may not reap the same level of expected benefits resulting from EDI technology adoption and implementation as hub firms.
Methodology as metaphor: the practical basis for multiview methodology (a reply to M.C. Jackson)
Authors: Watson Heather , Wood‐Harper Trevor
Published: March 2008

Abstract. Multiview Methodology (MVM) combines a range of hard and soft approaches to developing information systems. We explain the practical basis for MVM's combination. This centres on the gap between theory and practice. This arises because methodology in use is metaphorical since its meaning is both (a) a practitioner's experience and (b) a property of a methodology. In practice, the meaning of a methodology is therefore not necessarily restricted to an espoused theory. Multiple perspectives make this explicit and help to create new interpretations.
Meta‐CASE: Is the game worth the candle?
Authors: ter Hofstede A.H.M. , Verhoef T.F.
Published: March 2008

Abstract.The current generation of CASE (Computer Aided Software Engineering) tools is too inflexible to provide adequate modelling support. One of the proposed solutions to this problem is the development of so‐called CASE shells. A CASE shell is a method independent CASE tool, which may be instantiated with a specific method to become a CASE tool supporting that method. As such, a CASE shell provides complete flexibility. This paper does not address the benefits of CASE shells, as they are completely clear, but focuses on the feasibility of this concept from a theoretical as well as a practical point of view
In search of Europe's information technology leaders: review of methods and empirical evidence
Authors: Lacity M.C. , Feeny D.F.
Published: March 2008

Abstract. Information technology (IT) leaders — companies that successfully exploit IT to achieve business results — generate immense interest among practitioners and academics. From a practitioner's perspective, IT leaders provide benchmarks of leading IT management practices which others may emulate to achieve success. From an academic perspective, IT leaders provide the ‘data’ for the creation of frameworks and theories of IT management. While US IT leaders are regularly assessed by academics, trade magazines, consultants and benchmarking firms, there has been no Europe‐wide assessment of IT leadership. This neglect is detrimental to European IT practitioners and academics who may discover that American IT management practices are not transferrable in the European context. In this article, we analyse the construct, context and statistical validity of six methods for identifying European IT leaders. Based on this analysis, two methods (expert ratings and citation counts) were used to generate a preliminary list of European IT leaders and laggards. While individual experts were reticent about volunteering their ratings, their collective view appears to generate a worthwhile list with high construct validity. Citation counts represent a more accessible process for list generation, with high statistical validity. However, an attempt to correlate expert ratings with a list based on citation counts confirms that the latter has questionable construct validity.
A framework for linking Soft Systems Methodology (SSM) and Jackson System Development (JSD)
Authors: Savage A. , Mingers J.
Published: March 2008

Abstract. This paper describes a proposed framework for linking soft systems methodology (SSM), a problem structuring technique for use in messy, ill‐defined problem situations, with Jackson System Development (JSD), an information system development methodology which has object‐oriented characteristics. The approach taken has been to embed the modelling phase of JSD within SSM after the conceptual modelling stage, but before the debate on desirable and feasible change. The JSD modelling phase is carried out at a conceptual rather than a real world level. The framework comprises of a series of steps which enable JSD entity structure diagrams to be derived to a large extent from the activities in an SSM conceptual model. A data model may then be built up by exploding the activities in the conceptual model or by using ‘conceptual hows’ to identify more entities and actions. One of the main benefits expected to arise from the use of such a framework is an improved user requirement definition, which is important to successful systems implementation. The difficulties in actually achieving a link relate to the methodological and philosophical differences between SSM and JSD.
An analytical evaluation of NIAM'S grammar for conceptual schema diagrams
Authors: Weber Ron , Zhang Yanchun
Published: March 2008

Abstract. Nijssen's Information Analysis Method (niam) provides a powerful grammar for generating conceptual schema diagrams. We evaluate this grammar systematically using an ontological model proposed by Bunge, Wand and Weber. Our analysis shows niam'Sgrammar has many desirable features. Nevertheless, we conclude it is deficient in three respects. First, we argue that construct overload occurs in niam'Sgrammar. Multiple real‐world features are represented by the same grammatical construct in niam. As a result, we predict users of niam will sometimes be confused about which characteristics of the real world are being represented by niam'Soverloaded grammatical constructs. Second, we argue that construct redundancy occurs in niam. Multiple grammatical constructs can be used to represent the same real‐world feature. As a result, we predict users of niam will choose to employ only one of the grammatical constructs provided to represent a particular real‐world feature. Alternatively, they will equivocate in their choice of a grammatical construct and thus undermine their effectiveness and efficiency in using niam. Third, we argue niam has construct deficit. Some ontological constructs have no corresponding grammatical construct in niam. As a result, we predict users of niam will employ other grammars to represent real‐world features that cannot be represented by niam'Sgrammar. We predict that using multiple grammars to represent real‐world features, however, will evoke other problems associated with attaining consistent representations among the scripts generated via the grammars.
Case study research: a multi‐faceted research approach for IS
Authors: Cavaye A.L.M.
Published: March 2008

Abstract. A wide variety of approaches can be applied under the heading of case study research; this paper explicitly discusses the range of the alternatives. Many papers discussing case study research emphasize one particular variation of case study research only. The current paper provides an overview of the various uses of case study research in the information systems field by describing the different ways in which case study research can be used, using examples from published IS literature for illustration, and providing references to other method papers for more detailed discussion of each alternative. Researchers are reminded that case study research can be used in the positivist and interpretivist traditions, for testing or building theory, with a single or multiple case study design, using qualitative or mixed methods. The range of case study research alternatives makes it a highly versatile research strategy for IS
Users and designers as partners ‐ design method and tools for user participation and designer accountability within the design process
Authors: Koh Irene S.Y. , Heng Michael S.H.
Published: March 2008

Abstract. We have found two main causes of inadequacies in a decision support system designed by us. They are, in general, the lack of direct user participation and the lack of designer accountability in the design process. In an attempt to solve the problem, we develop a new design method, the User Participation and Designer Accountability (UPDA) method. It involves users' direct manipulation of colour cards, which contain the contents of simple design charts. These cards are also made accessible to everyone involved in the design process and form the basis upon which the designer can be questioned. We have applied the UPDA method and so far the reactions are very positive.
A speech act lexicon: an alternative use of speech act theory in information systems
Authors: Janson Marius A. , Woo Carson C.
Published: March 2008

Abstract. Speech act theory focuses on pragmatic language qualities of making assertions, directions, promises, declarations and expressions. However, assigning speech acts to one of a few categories is not without controversy. The process is context dependent and, hence, individuals with divergent contextual views may categorize speech acts differently. Different categories, in turn, imply different speech act interpretations. The difficulty of disparate speech act interpretations can often be resolved by, for example, a process of negotiation. Nonetheless, it is easy to envisage situations in which agreement by negotiation is not possible. Such would be the case when a researcher studies transcribed speech act performances. We propose that Ballmer and Brennenstuhl's (1981) speech at classification method, which relies on an extensive speech act verb lexicon with sequencing and contextual information, can reduce disagreement among individuals who singly or together analyse and ascribe meaning to speech acts. We base this proposition on the results of exploratory research involving alternative knowledge acquisition methods. Our exploratory results suggest that Ballmer and Brennenstuhl's lexicon provides several promising future research directions of speech act use in information systems.
Different clinical outcomes following root fractures of adjacent incisors: a case report
Authors: Schmitz M. S. , Montagner F. , Montagner H. , Escobar C. A. B. , Dos Santos R. A. , Gomes B. P. F. A.
Published: March 2008

Aim  To report different patterns of root fracture healing in adjacent maxillary central incisors with distinct post‐treatment outcomes.

Summary  To describe the case of a 12‐year‐old girl who presented with an avulsed coronal fragment of tooth 11 and root fractures in the middle thirds of teeth 11 and 21. Four months after initial treatment, she was referred for specialized endodontic care. Tooth 11 presented no clinical or radiographic signs of pulp breakdown. However a sinus tract was found related to the middle root third of tooth 21, indicating pulp necrosis in the coronal fragment. The coronal fragment was root filled and periapical surgery was performed to remove the apical fragment. Twelve months after the clinical procedures and 16 months after trauma, hard tissue healing was evident in tooth 11 region. Bone healing was also satisfactory in the periapical region of tooth 21.

Key learning points

Even adjacent teeth may display different reaction patterns after trauma.

The prognosis of root fractures is variable and different clinical approach may be required to preserve teeth with fractured roots.
Catheter‐related bloodstream infections in intensive care units: a systematic review with meta‐analysis
Authors: Ramritu Prabha , Halton Kate , Cook David , Whitby Michael , Graves Nicholas
Published: March 2008

Title.  Catheter‐related bloodstream infections in intensive care units: a systematic review with meta‐analysis

Aim.  This paper is a report of a systematic review and meta‐analysis of strategies, other than antimicrobial coated catheters, hypothesized to reduce risk of catheter‐related bloodstream infections and catheter colonization in the intensive care unit setting.

Background.  Catheter‐related bloodstream infections occur at a rate of 5 per 1000 catheter days in the intensive care unit setting and cause substantial mortality and excess cost. Reducing risk of catheter‐related bloodstream infections among intensive care unit patients will save costs, reduce length of stay, and improve outcomes.

Methods.  A systematic review of studies published between January 1985 and February 2007 was carried out using the keywords ‘catheterization – central venous’ with combinations of infection*, prevention* and bloodstream*. All included studies were screened by two reviewers, a validated data extraction instrument was used and data collection was completed by two blinded independent reviewers. Risk ratios for catheter‐related bloodstream infections and catheter colonization were estimated with 95% confidence intervals for each study. Results from studies of similar interventions were pooled using meta‐analyses.

Results.  Twenty‐three studies were included in the review. The strategies that reduced catheter colonization included insertion of central venous catheters in the subclavian vein rather than other sites, use of alternate skin disinfection solutions before catheter insertion and use of Vitacuff in combination with polymyxin, neomycin and bacitracin ointment. Strategies to reduce catheter‐related bloodstream infection included staff education multifaceted infection control programmes and performance feedback.

Conclusion.  A range of interventions may reduce risks of catheter‐related bloodstream infection, in addition to antimicrobial catheters.
Burnout and physical and mental health among Swedish healthcare workers
Authors: Peterson Ulla , Demerouti Evangelia , Bergström Gunnar , Samuelsson Mats , Åsberg Marie , Nygren Åke
Published: March 2008

Title.  Burnout and physical and mental health among Swedish healthcare workers

Aim.  This paper is a report of a study to investigate how burnout relates to self‐reported physical and mental health, sleep disturbance, memory and lifestyle factors.

Background.  Previous research on the possible relationship between lifestyle factors and burnout has yielded somewhat inconsistent results. Most of the previous research on possible health implications of burnout has focused on its negative impact on mental health. Exhaustion appears to be the most obvious manifestation of burnout, which also correlates positively with workload and with other stress‐related outcomes.

Method.  A cross‐sectional study was conducted, using questionnaires sent to all employees in a Swedish County Council (N = 6118) in 2002. The overall response rate was 65% (n = 3719). A linear discriminant analysis was used to look for different patterns of health indicators and lifestyle factors in four burnout groups (non‐burnout, disengaged, exhausted and burnout).

Results.  Self‐reported depression, anxiety, sleep disturbance, memory impairment and neck‐ and back pain most clearly discriminated burnout and exhausted groups from disengaged and non‐burnout groups. Self‐reported physical exercise and alcohol consumption played a minor role in discriminating between burnout and non‐burnout groups, while physical exercise discriminated the exhausted from the disengaged group.

Conclusion.  Employees with burnout had most symptoms, compared with those who experienced only exhaustion, disengagement from work or no burnout, and the result underlines the importance of actions taken to prevent and combat burnout.
Stability of exotic annual grasses following restoration efforts in southern California coastal sage scrub
Authors: Cox Robert D. , Allen Edith B.
Published: March 2008

Restoration of semi‐arid shrub ecosystems often requires control of invasive grasses but the effects of these grass‐control treatments on native and exotic forbs have not been investigated adequately to assess long‐term stability. In southern California, coastal sage scrub (CSS) vegetation is one semi‐arid shrub community that has been invaded extensively by both exotic grasses and exotic forbs and is a target for restoration.

We studied the effects of grass‐specific herbicide, thatch removal plus herbicide and mowing on native and exotic species in a heavily invaded CSS community. We followed this grass‐control experiment for 6 years to assess the stability of such treatments. We also added a soil disturbance experiment to investigate the potential influence of thatch removal and soil disturbance on exotic and native grasses and forbs.

In the grass‐control experiment, treatments reduced exotic grass cover to differing degrees. Three years of mowing resulted in lower exotic grass cover, but only for 2 years. Both herbicide and herbicide plus thatch removal reduced exotic grasses more than mowing, and effects persisted for longer. However, reducing exotic grass cover increased seeded species only during the year of seeding. In addition, plots where exotic grasses were controlled by herbicides also experienced increases in exotic forb cover.

In the soil‐disturbance experiment, treatments did not increase cover of native species, although plots in which soil was disturbed did have less exotic grass cover. In both experiments, plots observed in years with different rainfall experienced widely varied plant cover, emphasizing the influence that precipitation exerts in these systems.

Synthesis and applications. In restoration of semi‐arid shrub ecosystems, grass control can reduce exotic grasses over the short‐term. However, recovery of grasses in the longer term indicates that restoration does not form a new stable state. Restoration and management of semi‐arid shrublands may therefore require continual grass control. Exotic forbs should also be considered for control, as they may increase when exotic grasses are removed. Yearly variations in precipitation confound determination of successful restoration efforts, and require long‐term observations to detect the response of native species to treatments.
The role of research for integrated management of invasive species, invaded landscapes and communities
Authors: Buckley Yvonne M.
Published: March 2008

Invaded landscapes and ecosystems are composed of multiple interacting networks and feed‐back loops, sometimes leading to unexpected effects of management actions. In order to plan management for invaded systems we need to explicitly consider management goals before putting actions in place. Actions taken must be justified in terms of their amelioration of impacts of invaders, contribution to the management goals and the costs incurred.

This Special Profile brings together papers on the management of invasive plants, transgenes, animals and diseases, leading to conclusions with clear policy and management relevance and contributing to some of the hottest current topics in invasion ecology: unexpected impacts of invaders, restoration of invasion resistance, distribution mapping, spatial epidemiology, escape of transgenes, community interactions and complex effects of management.

As papers in this Special Profile demonstrate, management for amelioration of the impacts of invasive species will include a wide range of manipulations, not just of the invader itself but of both abiotic and biotic components of the system. In fact, several papers in this Special Profile show that indirect management of the community may be more effective than removal of the invader alone.

As little information is generally available at the beginning of a management programme, an adaptive approach should be taken and the management objectives/goals revised throughout the management process. New methods are emerging for adaptive management; an example is presented in this Special Profile where a Bayesian model used for assessing eradication goals can be updated throughout the management process leading to refinement of management.

Synthesis and applications. Applied research should be directed at providing decision support for managers throughout the management process and can be used to provide predictive tools for risk assessment of new invaders. The science of invasion ecology has much to contribute to the new challenge of natural or enhanced movement of organisms in relation to climate change. Methods and information from invasion ecology can be used to assess management goals, management actions and the risks of potential translocations before they are put in place.
The Rapid Serological Identification of Rhizobia in Small Nodules
Authors: Parker C. A. , Grove Pamela L.
Published: March 2008

Summary. A simple rapid method for the serological identification of bacteroids in small leguminous root nodules is described. The method may be used where very large numbers of nodule samples require routine examination. Its utility and limitations are discussed.
Cooperation in the care for patients with home enteral tube feeding throughout the care trajectory: nurses’ perspectives
Authors: Bjuresäter Kaisa , Larsson Maria , Nordström Gun , Athlin Elsy
Published: March 2008

Aim.  The aim of this study was to explore how the planning, daily care and follow‐up procedures work in the care trajectory for patients treated with home enteral tube feeding, from the perspective of hospital and community care nurses.

Background.  Discharge planning for patients in need of home enteral tube feeding is a complex process. Several studies have described routines for discharge and care of patients with home enteral tube feeding in the care trajectory, but few studies have investigated how this really works.

Method.  A qualitative method with a phenomenographic approach was used. Interviews, with open‐ended questions, with ten nurses from both hospitals and communities were performed.

Findings.  One main category, ‘cooperation’, emerged, which describes an hierarchical relationship to three description categories: ‘nurses’ knowledge’, ‘nurses’ view of responsibility’ and ‘nurses’ professional awareness and commitment’. Each of these contained two sub‐categories showing a positive and a negative pole.

Conclusions.  Cooperation in the care of patients with home enteral tube feeding throughout the care trajectory was influenced by the nurses’ knowledge about enteral tube feeding, the discharge‐planning process, and whether their responsibility was clearly distributed. Whether nurses had a patient‐ or task‐oriented attitude was also important. Inefficient cooperation was considered having negative effects on the quality of care regarding home enteral tube feeding.

Relevance to clinical practice.  This study has stressed the need for improving cooperation and communication between nurses at hospitals and in communities, as well as for increasing nurses’ level of knowledge, to make home enteral tube feeding work in a safe way. It also has illuminated the urgent need to clarify responsibility distribution at the workplace, which is a question for nurse managers. Discussions should be undertaken among nurses about guidelines for tube feeding care and discharge process, as this is the responsibility of all professional nurses.