bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of a hospital‐based tobacco treatment service: Outcomes and lessons learned
Authors: Faseru Babalola , Turner Margaret , Casey Genevieve , Ruder Christopher , Befort Christie A. , Ellerbeck Edward F. , Richter Kimber P.
Published: November 2010

BACKGROUND:

The efficacy of smoking cessation interventions for hospital patients has been well described, but we know little regarding implementation and outcomes of real‐world programs.

OBJECTIVE:

To describe the services provided and outcomes of an academic medical center‐based tobacco treatment service (UKanQuit) located in the Midwestern United States.

METHOD:

This is a descriptive observational study. Both quantitative and qualitative data of all patients treated by UKanQuit over a 1‐year period were analyzed.

RESULTS:

Among 513 patients served, average interest in quitting was 7.9, standard deviation (SD) 2.9 on a scale of 0 to 10. More than 1 in 4 had been given an in‐hospital medication to ameliorate withdrawal prior to seeing a counselor. Counselors recommended medication changes for 1 in 3 patients, helped 73% set a goal for quitting or reducing tobacco use, and fax referred 56% to quitlines. Six‐month follow‐up (response rate, 46%) found a 7‐day abstinence rate of 32% among respondents for an intent‐to‐treat abstinence rate of 15%. Post‐discharge, 74% made at least one serious quit attempt, 34% had used a quit smoking medication, but only 5% of those referred to the quitline reported using it.

CONCLUSIONS:

In a hospital setting, interest in quitting is high among smokers who requested to see a tobacco counselor but administration of inpatient medications remains low. Many smokers are making unassisted quit attempts post‐discharge because utilization of cessation medications and quitline counseling were low. Fax‐referral to quitline may not, on its own, fulfill guideline recommendations for post‐discharge follow‐up. Journal of Hospital Medicine 2010;. © 2010 Society of Hospital Medicine.
Genetic evidence for the presence of two distinct hantaviruses associated with Apodemus mice in Croatia and analysis of local strains
Authors: Plyusnina Angelina , Krajinović Lidija Cvetko , Margaletić Josip , Niemimaa Jukka , Nemirov Kirill , Lundkvist Åke , Markotić Alemka , Miletić‐Medved Marica , Avšič‐Županc Tatjana , Henttonen Heikki , Plyusnin Alexander
Published: November 2010

In Europe, Dobrava‐Belgrade (DOBV), Saaremaa (SAAV), and Puumala (PUUV) viruses are known to cause hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome (HFRS). All three hantaviruses are now found in Croatia. Lung tissue samples of 315 Apodemus mice trapped in 2003–2004 were screened for the presence of hantaviral N‐Ag and 20 mice (6.3%) were found either strongly positive or weak/suspected‐positive. Partial sequences of hantavirus M and S segments were recovered by RT‐PCR from six mice and subjected to (phylo)genetic analysis that revealed the presence of four novel strains of DOBV and one of SAAV. Curiously, one of the newly described DOBV strains was found in Apodemus agrarius mouse, that is, not in the traditional host, A. flavicollis mice, suggesting a spillover event. S segment sequences recovered previously from HFRS cases [Markotić et al., 2002] were confirmed as DOBV sequences; one of which appeared particularly close to the prototype Slovenian DOBV isolate. Taken together with earlier data on PUUV in Croatia, these results show a co‐circulation of three European hantavirus pathogens in this country. So far, not a single SAAV sequence has been recovered from HFRS patients either in Croatia or neighboring Slovenia and Hungary nor in Slovakia suggesting a somewhat lower fequency of acute SAAV infection in humans in this part of Europe than for example in the Baltics. J. Med. Virol. 83:108–114, 2011. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Differential gene expression of soluble CD8+ T‐cell mediated suppression of HIV replication in three older children
Authors: Katz Ben Z. , Salimi Babak , Gadd Samantha L. , Huang Chiang‐Ching , Kabat William J. , Kersey Donna , McCabe Chris , Heald‐Sargent Taylor , Katz Elyssa D. , Yogev Ram
Published: November 2010

Suppression of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) replication by CD8+ T‐cells (CD8 suppression) contributes to survival in adults and children <1 year. Soluble CD8 suppression can also be seen in some older children with AIDS. The factor responsible, CD8‐derived antiviral factor (CAF), acts at the level of HIV RNA transcription. Differential gene expression techniques have been used to define the gene(s) mediating this phenomenon in adults. Recently, CAF has been linked to exosomes secreted by CD8+ T‐cells. To compare the gene expression profiles from pediatric patients with each other, with those reported in 2 previous studies in adults and in those reportedly related to exosomes, we used differential gene expression to study three older children with HIV infection, one who did demonstrate soluble CD‐8 suppression and two who did not. Eighteen differentially expressed genes were also seen in one adult study (P = 0.002, χ2 test), and 38 such genes (P < 0.0001, χ2 test) in a second adult study. In addition, two exosome components and some RNA's related to exosomal proteins were also differentially expressed. In children with HIV infection, we found significant differentially expressed genes that correlated to those previously reported in two studies in adults. Our data also lends some support to the recent identification of CAF with exosomes secreted by CD8+ T‐cells. J. Med. Virol. 83:24–32, 2011. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Duration of viral shedding in patients admitted to hospital with pandemic influenza A/H1N1 2009 infection
Authors: Na Shin , Chong Yong Pil , Kim Mi‐Na , Kim Won Young , Kim Won , Hong Sang‐Bum , Lim Chae‐Man , Koh Younsuck , Kwon Ji‐Won , Hong Soo‐Jong , Lee Sang‐Oh , Choi Sang‐Ho , Kim Yang Soo , Woo Jun Hee , Kim Sung‐Han
Published: November 2010

Little is known about the kinetics of viral shedding of pandemic influenza A/H1N1 2009 virus. Influenza RNA, as a surrogate for viral clearance, was therefore measured on days 1, 5, 7, and 10 or more in patients admitted to hospital with pandemic influenza A/H1N1 2009 infection. A total of 72 patients who were admitted to hospital with confirmed pandemic influenza A/H1N1 2009 at a tertiary care hospital, Seoul, South Korea, between 1 September and 11 November 2009 were evaluated. The median duration of viral shedding, as assessed by RT‐PCR, was 9 days, as determined by the Kaplan–Meier method. Patients who were positive by RT‐PCR at their last assay, but who were discharged before the next RT‐PCR test due to symptom improvement, were censored from the analysis. If such patients were included, with the assumption that they had negative viral status at discharge, the median duration of viral shedding was 5 days (interquartile range, 2–8 days). These calculations thus suggest that the true median duration of viral shedding is between 5 and 9 days. Univariate analysis showed that delayed administration of antiviral therapy and comorbidity were associated with slower viral clearance. Multivariate analysis showed that oseltamivir started after the first day of symptoms (OR 2.7, 95% CI 1.2–5.7) was associated independently with slower viral clearance. These findings indicate that, in about 50% of patients admitted to hospital with pandemic influenza A/H1N1 2009, virus can be positive as tested by RT‐PCR on the eighth day after developing symptoms of influenza. The present findings also indicate that starting antiviral therapy within 24 hr of the onset of symptoms is associated with more rapid viral clearance. J. Med. Virol. 83:5–9, 2011. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Co‐circulation of genetically distinct human metapneumovirus and human bocavirus strains in young children with respiratory tract infections in Italy
Authors: Zappa Alessandra , Canuti Marta , Frati Elena , Pariani Elena , Perin Silvana , Ruzza Maria Lorena , Farina Claudio , Podestà Alberto , Zanetti Alessandro , Amendola Antonella , Tanzi Elisabetta
Published: November 2010

The discovery of human Metapneumovirus (hMPV) and human Bocavirus (hBoV) identified the etiological causes of several cases of acute respiratory tract infections in children. This report describes the molecular epidemiology of hMPV and hBoV infections observed following viral surveillance of children hospitalized for acute respiratory tract infections in Milan, Italy. Pharyngeal swabs were collected from 240 children ≤3 years of age (130 males, 110 females; median age, 5.0 months; IQR, 2.0–12.5 months) and tested for respiratory viruses, including hMPV and hBoV, by molecular methods. hMPV‐RNA and hBoV‐DNA positive samples were characterized molecularly and a phylogenetical analysis was performed. PCR analysis identified 131/240 (54.6%) samples positive for at least one virus. The frequency of hMPV and hBoV infections was similar (8.3% and 12.1%, respectively). Both infections were associated with lower respiratory tract infections: hMPV was present as a single infectious agent in 7.2% of children with bronchiolitis, hBoV was associated with 18.5% of pediatric pneumonias and identified frequently as a single etiological agent. Genetically distinct hMPV and hBoV strains were identified in children examined with respiratory tract infections. Phylogenetic analysis showed an increased prevalence of hMPV genotype A (A2b sublineage) compared to genotype B (80% vs. 20%, respectively) and of the hBoV genotype St2 compared to genotype St1 (71.4% vs. 28.6%, respectively). Interestingly, a shift in hMPV infections resulting from A2 strains has been observed in recent years. In addition, the occurrence of recombination events between two hBoV strains with a breakpoint located in the VP1/VP2 region was identified. J. Med. Virol. 83:156–164, 2011. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Effect of an immunogenic complex containing WHV viral particles and non‐neutralizing anti‐HBs antibodies on the outcome of WHV infection in woodchucks
Authors: D'Ugo Emilio , Canitano Andrea , Catone Stefania , Giuseppetti Roberto , Kondili Loreta A. , Argentini Claudio , Rapicetta Maria
Published: November 2010

The Eastern woodchuck (Marmota monax) is a useful experimental model for evaluating antiviral therapy against chronic HBV infection. In the present study, an immunogenic complex (IGC) composed of immune sera containing PreS/S heterologous antibodies (anti‐HBs) and serum‐derived WHV particles containing 107 WHV–DNA copies/50 µl was developed. The IGC was administered to WHV‐negative woodchucks and natural chronic WHV carriers, with the final aim of evaluating the outcome of WHV infection in both groups. A control group of three animals, infected experimentally with viral particles only, was also evaluated. Following IGC administration, two WHV‐negative woodchucks exhibited persistent infection, with WHV–DNA levels 3–6 logs lower than the WHV–DNA levels of the controls that developed persistent infection. WHeAg seroconversion to anti‐WHe was observed in these two woodchucks and in two control woodchucks which developed self‐limited infection. In two of the four chronic carriers, the WHV–DNA level decreased significantly (by 4–6 logs) following IGC administration, with no rebound in viral load during follow‐up. WHeAg seroconversion to anti‐WHe was observed also in these animals. Analyses of the sequences derived from envelope proteins confirmed that IGC did not induce the emergence of resistant viral variants. The results of this study indicate that the IGC could be useful for breaking the tolerance in hepadnaviral infection and for boosting the host's innate and adoptive immune response. J. Med. Virol. 83:178–186, 2011. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
European collaborative evaluation of the enzygnost HBsAg 6.0 assay: Performance on hepatitis B virus surface antigen variants
Authors: Avellón Ana , Echevarría José M. , Weber Bernard , Weik Michael , Schobel Uwe , Willems Wulf R. , Gerlich Wolfram H.
Published: November 2010

Amino acid changes within the major antigenic determinant of the hepatitis B virus (HBV) surface antigen (HBsAg) may modify eventually the antigenic properties of the protein and may have impact on the sensitivity of diagnostic assays. Modifications in the design of an assay can, however, improve significantly its ability to detect HBV mutants. One hundred forty‐seven clinical samples containing HBsAg variants, and 54 supernatants of cells expressing recombinant HBsAg mutants were tested by two generations of a commercial HBsAg test (Enzygnost® HBsAg 5.0 and 6.0, Siemens Healthcare Diagnostics Products, Marburg, Germany), and the results were compared. A significant improvement was demonstrated for the second test by comparing the mean and individual sample/cut‐off values, as well as by the detection of several samples displaying amino acid changes in residues 120 and 145 of the HBsAg which were recorded as negative by the former test. The results showed that modifications in design of the assay improved considerably the ability of the test to detect HBsAg mutants, and that difficulties in detecting such HBV variants should not be expected with the routine use of the test in diagnostic laboratories and in blood transfusion centers. J. Med. Virol. 83:95–100, 2011. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Frequency, clinical characteristics, and genotype distribution of rotavirus gastroenteritis in Greece (2007–2008)
Authors: Koukou Dimitra , Grivea Ioanna , Roma Eleftheria , Tsioni Heleni , Trimis Georgios , Galanakis Emmanuel , Farmaki Evagelia , Iosifidis Elias , Michos Athanassios , Siamopoulou‐Mavridou Antigoni , Kalmanti Maria , Papadopoulou Heleni , Roilides Emmanuel , Theodoridou Maria , Syrogiannopoulos George A. , Syriopoulou Vassiliki
Published: November 2010

Rotavirus is the leading cause of acute gastroenteritis among young children worldwide. A prospective multi‐center study was conducted (2007–2008) in five Pediatric Hospitals to determine the prevalence, the clinical characteristics, and genotype distribution of rotavirus infection in Greece. Faecal samples were examined for the presence of group A rotavirus antigen by immunochromatography. Rotavirus strains were subjected to G and P genotyping by reverse‐transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and sequencing. A total of 393 children (216 boys) of median age 23 months, participated in the study. Rotavirus was the cause of acute gastroenteritis in 166 children, 42.3% (CI 95%, 37.4–47.1%) of non‐hospitalized and 47.8% (CI 95%, 41.7–53.9%) of hospitalized patients. Rotavirus gastroenteritis occurred between December and April in 78.6% of the cases. Most children with RVG (77.8%) were between 3 months and 3 years old. The mean value of Clark severity score was 12.9 ± 5.1 for RVG and 10.5 ± 4.9 for non‐RVG (P < 0.01). Genotypes were determined in 117 strains and their distribution was as following: G1P[8], 49%; G2P[4], 31%; G4P[8], 10%; G9P[8], 9%; and G8P[14], 1%. In conclusion, rotavirus is a frequent cause of acute gastroenteritis in Greece. The genotypes circulating are similar with those of other European countries. J. Med. Virol. 83:165–169, 2011. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Prevalence and correlates of GB virus C infection in HIV‐infected and HIV‐uninfected pregnant women in Bangkok, Thailand
Authors: Bhanich Supapol Wendy , Remis Robert S. , Raboud Janet , Millson Margaret , Tappero Jordan , Kaul Rupert , Kulkarni Prasad , McConnell Michelle S. , Philip A. Mock , McNicholl Janet M. , Roongpisuthipong Anuvat , Chotpitayasunondh Tawee , Shaffer Nathan , Butera Salvatore
Published: November 2010

GB virus C (GBV‐C) is an apathogenic virus that has been shown to inhibit HIV replication. This study examined the prevalence and correlates of GBV‐C infection and clearance in three cohorts of pregnant women in Thailand. The study population consisted of 1,719 (1,387 HIV‐infected and 332 HIV‐uninfected) women from three Bangkok perinatal HIV transmission studies. Stored blood was tested for GBV‐C RNA, GBV‐C antibody, and if RNA‐positive, genotype. Risk factors associated with the prevalence of GBV‐C infection (defined as presence of GBV‐C RNA and/or antibody) and viral clearance (defined as presence of GBV‐C antibody in the absence of RNA) among women with GBV‐C infection were examined using multiple logistic regression. The prevalence of GBV‐C infection was 33% among HIV‐infected women and 15% among HIV‐uninfected women. GBV‐C infection was independently associated (AOR, 95% CI) with an increasing number of lifetime sexual partners (referent—1 partner, 2 partners [1.60, 1.22–2.08], 3–10 partners [1.92, 1.39–2.67], >10 partners [2.19, 1.33–3.62]); injection drug use (5.50, 2.12–14.2); and HIV infection (3.79, 2.58–5.59). Clearance of GBV‐C RNA among women with evidence of GBV‐C infection was independently associated with increasing age in years (referent <20, 20–29 [2.01, 1.06–3.79] and ≥30 [3.18, 1.53–6.60]), more than 10 lifetime sexual partners (3.05, 1.38–6.75), and HIV infection (0.29, 0.14–0.59). This study found that GBV‐C infection is a common infection among Thai women and is associated with HIV infection and both sexual and parenteral risk behaviors. J. Med. Virol. 83:33–44, 2011. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Serum HBsAg levels during peginterferon α‐2a treatment with or without thymosin α‐1 in HBeAg‐positive chronic hepatitis B patients
Authors: Song Eun Young , Shin Yunsu , Roh Eun Youn , Sue Shin , Park Myoung Hee , Kim Bo Hyun , Kim Won , Yoon Jung‐Hwan , Lee Youn‐Jae , Park Sung Jae , Jung Eun Uk , Lee Jeong‐Hoon , Myung Sun Jung , Kim Yoon‐Jun , Lee Hyo‐Suk
Published: November 2010

The importance of serum hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) level as a surrogate marker for viral load and a predictor of treatment response remains unclear. The aim of this study was to investigate whether serum HBsAg correlates with serum hepatitis B virus (HBV) DNA during peginterferon (PEG‐IFN) α‐2a treatment (with or without thymosin α‐1) in hepatitis B e antigen (HBeAg)‐positive chronic hepatitis B patients and whether it can predict treatment response. Sera from 37 HBeAg‐positive chronic hepatitis B patients receiving 48‐weeks PEG‐IFN α‐2a with (n = 20) or without (n = 17) an initial 12‐weeks thymosin α‐1 were obtained at baseline and at weeks 12, 24, 36, 48 (end of treatment), 56, 72, 84, and 96 (end of follow‐up). Taqman HBV DNA tests (Roche) and Architect HBsAg QT (Abbott) were performed. There was a moderate correlation between the HBsAg and HBV DNA levels (r = 0.452, P < 0.001). Median HBsAg levels at baseline and at week 96 were 6,218 IU/ml and 4,038 IU/ml, respectively. The mean HBV DNA and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) levels were 7.48 log10 IU/ml and 173 IU/L at baseline and 5.37 log10 IU/ml and 102 IU/L at week 96, respectively. A decrease to <60% of baseline levels of HBsAg at week 12 was identified as an independent predictive factor for HBeAg seroconversion (OR = 45.7, P < 0.05) at week 96. Serum HBsAg levels may be helpful for predicting the response to PEG‐IFN therapy in HBeAg‐positive chronic hepatitis B patients. J. Med. Virol. 83:88–94, 2011. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Higher bioavailability of isoflavones after a single ingestion of aglycone‐rich fermented soybeans compared with glucoside‐rich non‐fermented soybeans in Japanese postmenopausal women
Authors: Okabe Yuki , Shimazu Tsukasa , Tanimoto Hiroyuki
Published: November 2010

BACKGROUND: There have been conflicting study results concerning how the food matrix affects the bioavailability of isoflavone aglycone and glucoside. In this study the bioavailability of isoflavones after a single ingestion of aglycone‐rich fermented soybeans (Fsoy) and glucoside‐rich non‐fermented soybeans (Soy) was compared. Eleven healthy postmenopausal Japanese women were recruited for a randomised, double‐blind, crossover trial and consumed Fsoy or Soy powder dissolved in hot water. Blood samples were collected 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 8, 12 and 24 h and urine samples from 0 to 48 h after ingestion of the powders. The Fsoy and Soy powders ingested had the same total isoflavone content (95 µmol), but the former was rich in aglycone (90.6 µmol) while the latter was rich in glucoside (81.9 µmol).

RESULTS: Serum concentrations of total isoflavones after 1–4 h were significantly higher in the Fsoy group than in the Soy group. The Fsoy group showed significantly higher maximum concentration (Cmax: 2.79 ± 0.13 vs 1.74 ± 0.13 µmol L−1) and area under the curve (AUC0–24 h: 23.78 ± 2.41 vs 19.95 ± 2.03 µmol day L−1) and lower maximum concentration time (Tmax: 1.00 ± 0.00 vs 5.00 ± 0.67 h) compared with the Soy group. The cumulative urinary excretion of total isoflavones after 2 h was significantly higher in the Fsoy group than in the Soy group. Individual isoflavones (daidzein, genistein and glycitein) showed similar trends to total isoflavones. Equol (a metabolite from daidzein) did not differ between the two groups.

CONCLUSION: The results of this study demonstrated that the isoflavones of aglycone‐rich Fsoy were absorbed faster and in greater amounts than those of glucoside‐rich Soy in postmenopausal Japanese women. Copyright © 2010 Society of Chemical Industry
Comparison of performance of high‐performance liquid chromatography columns packed with superficially and fully porous 2.5 μm particles using kinetic plots
Authors: Fanigliulo Ameriga , Cabooter Deirdre , Bellazzi Guido , Tramarin Davide , Allieri Brigida , Rottigni Alessandro , Desmet Gert
Published: November 2010

A recently introduced 2.5 μm fully porous support (Kromasil Eternity) is compared with three different brands of superficially porous material (Kinetex, Halo and Poroshell 120) by means of the kinetic plot method using pharmaceutical compounds from GlaxoSmithKline as probe molecules. The kinetic plot method immediately shows the range of plate numbers wherein a support performs better than another. Results from experiments carried out at pH 4.5 and 8.0 are presented in order to assess the pH stability of the tested phases. Moreover, since all supports are able to withstand pressures higher than 400 bar, they have been evaluated both on HPLC and UHPLC instrumentation. True average particle sizes were determined by SEM images taken from loose stationary phases. Kinetex outperforms the other columns in HPLC conditions for practically relevant efficiencies, but shows poor packing quality in the 100×2.1‐mm format. Kromasil is advantageous for simple and fast separations on short columns both in HPLC and in UHPLC conditions. Halo achieves the highest efficiencies of all columns at the lowest pressure cost and shows a noticeable lower axial diffusion. Poroshell 120 has the best packing quality reproducibility across the tested formats. All columns preserve their performance at high pH.
Defining a process for developing responsive knowledge pathways
Authors: Mclaughlin Stephen
Published: November 2010

To identify how organizations approach the development and implementation of their core processes in a manner that focuses on continued flexibility and responsiveness to changing customer needs, and environmental impact factors through improved knowledge transfer.

The research follows an empirically based multiple case study approach across six national/multi‐national knowledge‐based organizations. A core‐complex process was identified within IBM and then tested and refined across five over national/multinational organizations. Within each organization key employees interviewed concerning the manner in which their core processes were managed and modified.

Those organizations that identified their core business processes as being responsive, and flexible enough to meet changing customer expectations could be shown to follow a ‘nine‐step’ process lifecycle. However, those that had less‐responsive processes seemed to share similar organizational and managerial issues.

The findings are based on a limited sample size of six organizations, and the nature of the findings are presented in an inductive‐theory building way. Therefore, the findings are not presented as a final position, but as a starting point for further research into complex, knowledge transfer intensive business process development and design.

From the findings a nine‐stage process lifecycle model has been defined.

Within any service‐orientated organization core business processes are under pressure to manage continually changing customer requirements. Therefore, it is important not just to build efficient and effective processes, but to understand how the organization must be aligned in order ensure continued performance within a constantly changing operating environment. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A relational approach to understanding knowing in communities of practice
Authors: Kakavelakis Konstantinos
Published: November 2010

The typology of knowledge communities and knowledge collectivities has aimed to enhance the analytical clarity of the communities of practice concept (CoPs). This is achieved by outlining key differences in the knowing unfolding in CoPs and in less ‘homogeneous’ collectives such as multi‐disciplinary project teams. This paper argues that the typology offers an account which denies any significant role to agency within CoPs. Additionally, it explicates the knowledge processes CoPs engage with, by reference to their internal constitution and in isolation from the broader contexts in which they are embedded. To address this limitation the paper employs a relational perspective of agency and context interplay. It reports data from two case studies of CoPs operating within the context of a merger in the UK brewing sector. The evidence reaffirms the significance of agency in CoPs. It also illustrates how the exercise of agency is mediated by performative expectations derived from the positioning of work practices within broader relations of production. The interplay of agency and context poses limitations to the reification of the characteristics of knowing—in terms of the types of knowledge drawn upon and the outcomes of such a process—in different groups. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Accounting for intellectual capital: On the elusive path from theory to practice
Authors: Andrikopoulos Andreas
Published: November 2010

Intellectual capital emerged approximately twenty years ago as an alternative paradigm with the ambition to identify, measure, report and manage knowledge assets. While the need for regulatory frameworks to account for knowledge assets and intangible drivers of value was pressing in the setting of the “new economy”, intellectual capital has yet to establish itself as a dominant solution for accounting theorists, corporate professionals and regulators. This paper analyzes intellectual capital as a tool to meet practical needs with respect to accounting for and managing knowledge‐based, intangible wealth. Several explanations are provided on the extent of acceptance of intellectual capital as a management accounting alternative. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Knowledge flows in software projects: An empirical investigation
Authors: Sandhawalia Birinder Singh , Dalcher Darren
Published: November 2010

Software projects require tacit knowledge and shared contexts for creative problem solving. Existing knowledge management frameworks focus on codifying knowledge laying an emphasis on managing explicit knowledge, typically ignoring the tacit element. This research provides a framework that mobilises and integrates both tacit and explicit knowledge, and facilitates the flow of common knowledge to address unstructured situations in software projects. The framework is developed from empirical evidence gathered while conducting an extended case study at one of the world's largest software organisations. The research has implications for the knowledge management literature by establishing knowledge as something that is made resourceful by being competently mobilised and utilised, rather than by being managed through capture and storage. Thus, the paper attempts to fill a gap in the literature on a phenomenon that is increasingly becoming more relevant in empirical settings. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Cigarette smoke activates NFκB‐mediated Tnf‐α release from mouse middle ear cells
Authors: Preciado Diego , Kuo Elaine , Ashktorab Samaneh , Manes Peter , Rose Mary
Published: November 2010

Objectives/Hypothesis:

Cigarette smoke exposure is a significant risk factor in the development of otitis media. NF‐κB is a transcription factor known to mediate cigarette smoke effects in multiple cell types. We hypothesized that stimulation of murine middle ear epithelial cells (MEEC) with cigarette smoke condensate (CSC) activates NF‐κB resulting in upregulation of proinflammatory cytokines.

Study Design:

In vitro model of cultured murine middle ear epithelial cells.

Methods:

Time course CSC stimulation of MEEC was performed. Antibody microarrays were then utilized to simultaneously measure 40 inflammatory cytokines. Enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and quantitative reverse transcriptase‐polymerase chain reaction were performed to validate and further evaluate array results. Luciferase reporter assays were performed to evaluate NF‐κB activation with CSC in MEEC. Chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) assays were performed to determine whether CSC induces NF‐κB interaction with the Tnf‐α promoter.

Results:

Multiple cytokines showed significant increases with CSC exposure. ELISA studies demonstrated that Tnf‐α secretion increased the most. CSC stimulation likewise increased Tnf‐α mRNA abundance and induced promoter activity 4.8‐fold in a Tnf‐α reporter plasmid. Reporter assays demonstrated 4.84‐fold activation of NF‐κB with CSC. ChIP assays demonstrated NF‐κB binding to canonical κB sites in the Tnf‐α promoter with CSC stimulation.

Conclusions:

CSC activates NF‐κB in MEEC. Furthermore, this activation results in CSC induced Tnf‐α promoter activation, gene expression, and levels in cell secretions. Laryngoscope, 120:2508–2515, 2010
Bacterial tracheitis: A therapeutic approach
Authors: Shargorodsky Josef , Whittemore Kenneth R. , Lee Gi Soo
Published: November 2010

Objectives/Hypothesis:

tracheitis is an acute, infectious, potentially life‐threatening condition of the pediatric airway. Historically, patients have often required urgent invasive airway support, and have been treated with broad‐spectrum antibiotics, often combined with direct laryngoscopy and bronchoscopy.

Study Design:

Retrospective chart review.

Methods:

Six patients between the ages of 10 months and 16 years were treated at Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, for bacterial tracheitis between January 2009 and March 2009. All patients underwent urgent direct laryngoscopy and bronchoscopy for debridement of mucopurulent debris and tissue culture. Broad‐spectrum intravenous antibiotics were administered, and patients were kept on acute cardiopulmonary monitoring for 48 to 72 hours, after which time the airway was re‐evaluated by direct laryngoscopy and bronchoscopy in five of the patients, and by fiberoptic nasolaryngoscopy in one patient. All of the patients were transitioned to oral antibiotic therapy for 10 to 14 days after discharge.

Results:

Following debridement, all of the patients did well with aggressive medical management. None of the patients required urgent intubation, although one patient was kept on ventilator support for 48 hours until disease resolution was confirmed. No patients required tracheotomy, and there were no cardiopulmonary arrests. The mean hospital length of stay was 4.8 days (range, 3–8 days).

Conclusions:

This study highlights the importance of early disease identification and urgent surgical intervention in the management of bacterial tracheitis. It also demonstrates an approach with the potential to improve patient outcomes from this dangerous condition. Laryngoscope, 120:2498–2501, 2010
Improving the enabling environment to combat land degradation: Institutional, financial, legal and science‐policy challenges and solutions
Authors: Akhtar‐Schuster M. , Thomas R.J. , Stringer L.C. , Chasek P. , Seely M.
Published: November 2010

The need to mainstream land degradation issues into national policies and frameworks is encouraged by international mechanisms such as the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) and the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs, 2000). However, mainstreaming has faced a number of interrelated institutional, financial, legal, knowledge and policy barriers. As such, despite 15 years of existence of the UNCCD, successes in reversing and/or preventing land degradation are widely perceived to be limited. This paper highlights the nature of these barriers to mainstreaming and identifies ways in which specific limitations that hamper mainstreaming of land degradation into national, regional and international activities and policies may be overcome. It also identifies institutional infrastructures through which scientific findings may more effectively enter policy, suggesting that scientific bodies are required to strategise, coordinate and stimulate the global scientific research community to support mainstreaming and the up‐scaling of efforts to combat land degradation. Such a scientific body could also stimulate national cross‐sectoral and multi‐stakeholder knowledge exchange. The paper then moves to the national level to examine mainstreaming processes in Namibia, a country particularly advanced in taking a more integrated approach. Although the Namibia case study shows an impressive degree of integration, there are still many lessons to be learned in order to further strengthen mainstreaming processes. These lessons form the basis of our conclusion and recommendations, which outline a potential way forward. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Novel Polymeric Vesicles with pH‐Induced Deformation Character for Advanced Drug Delivery
Authors: Zheng Cheng , Yao Xiaping , Qiu Liyan
Published: November 2010

pH‐Responsive amphiphilic graft macromolecules consisting of a polyphosphazene backbone, hydrophilic PEG branches and pH‐sensitive DPA were successfully synthesized and characterized. The copolymer can self‐assemble into vesicles in an aqueous solution with unique inner structure and homogeneously encapsulate both lipophilic and hydrophilic molecules. The pH‐dependent structure change of vesicles was also observed by DLS and TEM. Dox‐loaded vesicles exhibit a sharp pH‐responsive drug release profile and dramatically enhance the cytotoxicity of Dox against Dox‐resistant MCF‐7/adr cells. These results suggest such vesicles based on pH‐responsive polyphosphazene hold great potential for specific drug therapy.

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PLP and MALDI‐ToF Determination of Propagation Rate Coefficients of Fast‐Polymerizing Acrylates with Heterocyclic Side‐Chains: Tetrahydrofurfuryl Acrylate and (R)‐α‐Acryloyloxy‐β,β‐dimethyl‐γ‐butyrolactone
Authors: Boukaftane Chouaib , van Herk Alex M.
Published: November 2010

The PLP technique in combination with MALDI‐ToF‐MS was used to determine the Arrhenius plots for the propagation rate coefficients of THFA and ADBL, which polymerize much faster than alkyl acrylates. It is demonstrated that this is not due to higher propagation rate coefficients. It is shown that the temperature at which the PLP experiment brakes down increases in the order ADBL > THFA > alkyl acrylates, indicating a high extent of transfer to polymer for these monomers. Although kp decreases in the same order, the decrease of the corresponding overall polymerization rate is much larger. Therefore, the high polymerization rates of ADBL and THFA cannot be accounted for by fast propagation rates but more likely are linked to a low rate of termination.

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Double‐Gyroid Morphology of a Polystyrene‐block‐Poly(ferrocenylethylmethylsilane) Diblock Copolymer: A Route to Ordered Bicontinuous Nanoscale Architectures
Authors: Gwyther Jessica , Lotze Gudrun , Hamley Ian , Manners Ian
Published: November 2010

A polystyrene‐block‐poly(ferrocenylethylmethylsilane) diblock copolymer, displaying a double‐gyroid morphology when self‐assembled in the solid state, has been prepared with a PFEMS volume fraction ϕPFEMS = 0.39 and a total molecular weight of 64 000 Da by sequential living anionic polymerisation. A block copolymer with a metal‐containing block with iron and silicon in the main chain was selected due to its plasma etch resistance compared to the organic block. Self‐assembly of the diblock copolymer in the bulk showed a stable, double‐gyroid morphology as characterised by TEM. SAXS confirmed that the structure belonged to the Ia$\overline {3} $d space group.

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Structural analysis of organometallic compounds with soft ionization mass spectrometry
Authors: Jirásko Robert , Holčapek Michal
Published: November 2010

The analysis of organometallic compounds with mass spectrometry has some special features in comparison with organic and bioorganic compounds. The first step is the choice of a suitable ionization technique, where the electrospray ionization is certainly the best possibility for most classes of organometallic compounds and metal complexes. Some ionization mechanisms of organometallic compounds are comparable to organic molecules, such as protonation/deprotonation, and adduct formation with sodium or potassium ions; however, in many cases, different mechanisms and their combinations complicate the spectra interpretation. Organometallics frequently undergo various types of adduct and polymerization reactions that result in significantly higher masses observed in the spectra in comparison to molecular weights of studied compounds. Metal elements typically have more natural isotopes than common organic elements, which cause characteristic wide distributions of isotopic peaks; for example, tin has ten natural isotopes. The isotopic pattern can be used for the identification of the type and number of metal elements in particular ions. The ionization and fragmentation behavior also depend on the type of metal atom; therefore, our discussion of mass spectra interpretation is divided according to the different type of organometallic compounds. Among various types of mass spectrometers available on the market, trap‐based analyzers (linear or spherical ion‐traps, Orbitrap) are suitable to study complex fragmentation pathways of organometallic ions and their adducts, whereas high‐resolution and high‐mass accuracy analyzers (time‐of‐flight‐based analyzers, or Fourier transform‐based analyzers—Orbitrap or ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometers) provide accurate masses applicable for the determination of the elemental composition of individual ions. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc., Mass Spec Rev 30:1013–1036, 2011
A novel PIFA antenna for broadband circular polarization
Authors: Wen Lehu , Yin Yingzeng , Wang Yan , Huang Jingxiu , Ren Xueshi , Zuo Shaoli
Published: November 2010

A novel broadband circularly polarized antenna is proposed, designed, and measured. Basically, the antenna consists of a PIFA and a square ground with an arrow‐like branch at its corner, which permit the antenna both broadband and circular polarization characteristics. For ease integration with active devices and design facilitation, the radiating element and ground are etched on the same layer of the substrate. Prototypes of the proposed antenna are fabricated and tested. The obtained −10‐dB return loss bandwidth and 2‐dB axial ratio (AR) bandwidth reach as large as 39.8 and 41.7%, respectively. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 53:204–208, 2011; View this article online at wileyonlinelibrary.com. DOI 10.1002/mop.25633
Beam‐steerable meanderline antenna using varactor diodes
Authors: Gökalp Nihan , Civi Özlem Aydin
Published: November 2010

This study presents a beam‐steerable traveling wave meanderline array at X‐band.Beam steering is achieved by the varactor diodes mounted on the meanderline that provide progressive phase shift between array elements. It is demonstrated that the radiation direction of the eight‐section meanderline array containing eight varactors can be rotated 10° by changing the varactor diode's bias voltage. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 53:200–204, 2011; View this article online at wileyonlinelibrary.com. DOI 10.1002/mop.25634
Fiber‐format pico‐second source based on efficient frequency doubling of a high‐repetition rate erbium‐fiber laser amplifier
Authors: Zhang Shuanggen , Yao Jianghong , Liu Yange , Lu Fuyun
Published: November 2010

A compact photonic device based on efficient and wavelength‐tunable doubling of a fiber‐format pico‐second source was demonstrated. Quasi‐phase‐matched second‐harmonic generation in periodically poled lithium niobate is used to generate 150 mW of 60‐ps pulses at 775 nm with a single‐pass conversion efficiency of 23.4%, repetition rate of 6.12 GHz. The tuning bandwidth of 2 nm and a tuning temperature range of 150 ± 1.8°C can be achieved. The Er‐doped seed fiber source is amplified by a clad‐pumped Er3+/Yb3+‐codoped fiber laser with a high‐output power up to 2.18 W over a tunable wavelength range from 1535 to 1570 nm. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 53:169–171, 2011; View this article online at wileyonlinelibrary.com. DOI 10.1002/mop.25635
An experimental equation on surface impedance of short carbon fibers and apply to wave absorber
Authors: Kato Shunki , Yasuzumi Takenori , Hashimoto Osamu , Tanaka Toshiaki
Published: November 2010

A design method of a wave absorber using short carbon fibers is proposed in this study. The measured results of the absorption characteristics show that the absorber has two‐matching frequencies. Designing of the absorber was performed by estimating the surface impedance calculated by the measured absorption characteristics. Absorption characteristics was calculated by transmission theory using the estimated surface impedance. As the results, calculated absorption agreed well with the measured ones. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 53:166–169, 2011; View this article online at wileyonlinelibrary.com. DOI 10.1002/mop.25636
Effect of feed phase errors on the crosspolarization of offset reflector antennas
Authors: Pour Zahra Allahgholi , Shafai Lotfollah
Published: November 2010

The impact of feed phase errors on the crosspolarization of offset reflector antennas is studied.The primary feed is assumed to be linearly polarized, with symmetrical E‐ and H‐plane patterns independent of ϕ. They are modeled by a cosnθ function, along with an extra term to account for the phase errors. Both linear and quadratic phase variations are studied. A broad range of focal length to diameter ratios, f/D from 0.5 to 1.1, are considered to investigate the crosspolarization properties in the presence of phase errors. It is shown that the reflector crosspolarization increases drastically when there is a linear phase error associated with the primary feed pattern. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 53:231–235, 2011; View this article online at wileyonlinelibrary.com. DOI 10.1002/mop.25643
A double‐layer metamaterial with negative refractive index originating from chiral configuration
Authors: Wu Zhe , Zhu Jinfeng , Jia Mingquan , Lu Haiping , Zeng Baoqing
Published: November 2010

Metamaterial of twisted metallic foil pairs is proposed. Resonances are illustrated in both transmission and reflection. Negative refraction index can be realized by chiral configuration of this metamaterial. Parallel and antiparallel surface currents form magnetic and electric dipoles. The cross coupling between electric and magnetic field presents chirality. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 53:163–166, 2011; View this article online at wileyonlinelibrary.com. DOI 10.1002/mop.25645
A dual‐band band‐pass filter using stepped impendance resonator
Authors: Guo Long , Yu Zhi‐Yuan , Zhang Long
Published: November 2010

In this article, a novel dual‐band band‐pass filter (BPF) using meandering stepped impedance resonators is proposed, since the advantage of their harmonic frequencies behavior, simple structures, and simple‐established design methodology.By selecting proper impedance ration (K) and the length ration (α), a dual‐band frequencies responses can be achieved. Using this structure, a dual‐band BPF performance at 2.4/5.25 GHz is designed. To improve the selectivity, two stubs are introduced into input/output lines to create another three transmission zeros. Both electromagnetic simulation and measurement results are presented. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 53:123–125, 2011; View this article online at wileyonlinelibrary.com. DOI 10.1002/mop.25648
A modified complex shifted preconditioner combined with sparse approximate inversion preconditioner for electromagnetic scattering
Authors: Hu X. Q. , Chen M. , Ding D. Z. , Chen R. S.
Published: November 2010

To efficiently solve large, dense, and complex linear systems arising from electric field integral equations formulation of electromagnetic scattering problems, the multilevel fast multipole algorithm is used to accelerate the matrix–vector product operations. This article presents a modified complex shifted preconditioner (MCSP), which is combined with sparse approximate inversion (SAI) preconditioner can greatly improve the convergence of restart generalized minimal residual iterative method for large, dense, complex linear systems. Numerical experiments demonstrate that the MCSP combined with SAI preconditioner is very effective and can reduce the iteration number and the computational time significantly. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 53:55–58, 2011; View this article online at wileyonlinelibrary.com. DOI 10.1002/mop.25651
Characterization of nonlinearity using polynomial transfer function of all‐optical sampling
Authors: Zhang Shangjian , Liu Yong , Li Heping , Liu Yongzhi
Published: November 2010

A novel method for full characterizing nonlinear distortion of all‐optical sampling is proposed based on polynomial transfer function.The method only requires fitting transfer curve with a polynomial function and enables a uniform expression of nonlinear distortion in terms of polynomial coefficients and input parameters. Simulation and experiment are designed and performed to check the accuracy. The results with our method are in good agreement with the measurement. Our method avoids both Fourier expansion and spectrum measurement, which is suitable for fast evaluating and optimizing distortion of all‐optical sampling. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 53:216–219, 2011; View this article online at wileyonlinelibrary.com. DOI 10.1002/mop.25655
Electro‐optic field probe sensor incorporating a high‐k dielectric with an aperture
Authors: Kyoung Un‐Hwan , Lee Sang‐Shin
Published: November 2010

An electro‐optic field probe sensor relying on a lithium niobate sensing tip, which is integrated with a fiber collimator, was proposed and fabricated. A high‐k dielectric sheet with a circular aperture at the center was placed in front of the sensing tip to concentrate and strengthen the field near the aperture, leading to an improvement in the sensing capability. The applied electrical field/power was successfully estimated from the optical output power from the sensor, which is dependent upon the electro‐optic effect induced phase retardation between the ordinary and extraordinary waves traversing the electro‐optic sensing tip. The completed sensor functioned successfully up to a frequency of 1.2 GHz. The sensor was used to scan a microstrip test circuit to provide the field distribution. The results are in decent agreement with the theoretical results obtained through a HFSS based simulation. Finally, a high‐k sheet with a dielectric constant of up to 90 was introduced, which improved the sensitivity by ∼10 dB. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 53:151–153, 2011; View this article online at wileyonlinelibrary.com. DOI 10.1002/mop.25658