bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Understanding Expectations, Perceptions and Satisfaction Levels of Customers of Military Engineer Services in India
Authors: Bansal Anand Parkash , Nagadevara Vishnuprasad
Published: December 2011

Customer satisfaction and client orientation concepts are needed in all service providing organisations, including those engaged in construction and infrastructure provision within the public sector where the public perception about their services is at its lowest. This study measures the expectations and perceptions of various service elements among clients of Military Engineer Services (MES) in India. Customers’ survey mode was used to measure the expectations, perception, importance and satisfaction. The perceived quality of services provided by this department was measured with SERVQUAL instrument on selected attributes using the Gap approach for identifying priorities. Additionally, this study also examines the influence of demographic characteristics of clients on expectations and perceptions of the clients. The results can be used by similar organisations for cultural and structural change to increase accountability and performance, in which the results indicate that the three most important dimensions in the order of importance among the clients of MES are tangibles, responsiveness and reliability.
Operational Performance Analysis of a Public Hospital Laboratory
Authors: Ahsan Kamrul , Azeem Abdullahil
Published: December 2011

Efficient utilization of scarce resources is an issue for any healthcare system. In developing countries, proper tools, techniques, and resources must be widely used in healthcare operational planning. Considering the necessity of effective resource planning, this study focuses on the rural healthcare system of Bangladesh and concentrates on the sub-district government hospital laboratory. The authors’ determine possible ways to improve operations of laboratory facilities. To analyze existing system efficiency, sample laboratory data is fed into a simulation model. This paper identifies several possible ways for future expansion and suggests using simulation for better planning and analysis.
Using the Critical Incident Technique to Identify Factors of Service Quality in Online Higher Education
Authors: Martínez-Argüelles María J. , Castán José M. , Juan Angel A.
Published: December 2011

Information technologies are changing the way in which higher education is delivered. In this regard, there is a necessity for developing information systems that help university managers measure the quality of online services offered to their students. This paper discusses the importance of considering students’ perception of service quality. The authors then identify key factors of service quality, as perceived by students, in online higher education. To this end, the Critical Incident Technique (CIT) is proposed as an effective qualitative methodology. Some benefits of this methodology are highlighted and an exploratory research is carried out in a real environment to illustrate this approach. Results from this research explain which quality dimensions are considered the most valuable to online students. Information provided by this methodology can significantly improve strategic decision-making processes in online universities worldwide.
Assessment and Contrast of the Effects of Information and Communication Technology
Authors: Wang John , Zhou Bin , Hsu Jeffrey
Published: December 2011

This article compares the effects of information and communication technology (ICT) on labor productivity growth and human quality of life in industrialized countries. A mathematical evaluation method based on the concept of Pareto-optimal organization is proposed for this study. This method is easy to apply and uses a linear programming model. The weights for various measurements are determined by objective method and are standard. The method is illustrated with real data from 23 developed countries worldwide.
Participation in Child Welfare Services Through Information and Communication Technologies
Authors: Tregeagle Susan
Published: December 2011

Case management systems were designed to open the way for increased participation of young people and their families in child welfare interventions, and, their standardised format provides a valuable opportunity to use ICT in social work practice. Existing research is unclear about how effectively case management affects participation, nor, the impact of ICT on social work interventions. This paper describes the findings of qualitative research with service users about their experiences of case management and how ICT could further their involvement in critical decisions for families. Service users are keen to use ICT and this could help overcome the limitations of paper-based case management systems and exploit the communication potential of the internet and mobile phones. However, before ICT could be used, the complex ‘digital divide’ affecting disadvantaged families would need to be addressed and social workers’ understanding and current use of ICT would need to be explored.
ICTs in Chinese Distance Higher Education
Authors: Li Xiaobin
Published: December 2011

The Chinese higher education system is the largest in the world, but distance education, using information communication technologies (ICTs), started later than in developed countries. In this paper, the author examines the benefits of education to human development and provides an overview of the recent development of distance higher education in China. The potential for further developing distance higher education with ICTs is considered. In addition, challenges are discussed and recommendations are made to improve Chinese distance higher education.
Examining the “Digital Divide”
Authors: Bangou Francis
Published: December 2011

Since the concept of “digital divide” first appeared, many researchers have argued for a more nuanced definition that highlights its complexities and better reveals its impact on the appropriation of ICTs. In this paper, the author analyzes the experiences of six Master of Education (M.Ed.) pre-service teachers learning to integrate ICTs into their practice. These case studies demonstrate how novice teachers’ learning processes can be impacted by the unequal distribution of the temporal, material, mental, social, and cultural resources available (van Dijk, 2005). A number of pedagogical and curricular recommendations for the M.Ed. program are then provided.
Leveraging Technology to Promote Assessment for Learning in Higher Education
Authors: DeLuca Christopher , McEwen Laura April
Published: December 2011

Assessment for learning (AFL) is a highly effective strategy for promoting student learning, development and achievement in higher education (Falchikov, 2003; Kirby & Downs, 2007; Nicol & Macfarlane-Dick, 2006; Rust, Price, & O’Donovan, 2003; Vermunt, 2005). However, since AFL relies on continuous monitoring of student progress through instructor feedback, peer collaboration, and student self-assessment, enacting AFL within large-group learning formats is challenging. This paper considers how technology can be leveraged to promote AFL in higher education. Drawing on data from students and instructors and recommendations from an external instructional design consultant, this paper documents the process of pairing technology and AFL within a large-group pre-service teacher education course at one Canadian institution. Recommendations for the improvement of the web-based component of the course are highlighted to provide practical suggestions for instructors to evaluate their own web-based platforms and improve their use of technology in support of AFL. The paper concludes with a discussion of areas for continued research related to the effectiveness of this pairing between assessment theory and technology.
New Trends and Futuristic Information Communication Technologies for Engineering Education
Authors: Sidhu Manjit Singh , Kang Lee Chen
Published: December 2011

Improving and enhancing education is a goal for higher learning institutions that seek to provide better learning techniques, technologies, and educators and generate knowledgeable students to fulfill the needs of industry. A field in need of significant improvement is engineering. One approach is to review the delivery and pedagogies used in the current educational system. This paper examines the problems faced by staff and students in the field of mechanical engineering. In addition, the authors explore new technologies that enhance and promote the learning process.
Business Case Development Risks in On and Offshore IT Outsourcing
Authors: Rouse Anne C.
Published: December 2011

Outsourcing of IT-supported business processes (systems development; customer relationship management; helpdesk, etc.) has become increasingly common in Western economies since the late 1990s. Such outsourcing is totally dependent on the provision of inter-organizational information systems (IOSs), which act as the “glue” to link vendor(s) and client(s). Hence understanding the importance of IOSs, and conversely, the downsides or risks they embody, is a critical part of ensuring that outsourcing arrangements are successful. In this chapter the theory behind outsourcing is unpacked, and readers are alerted to sometimes-overlooked aspects of the IOSs on which outsourcing depends. These raise the risks, and reduce the benefits, of outsourcing if they are not well thought through. Decision makers are advised to explicitly include the notion of risk in their outsourcing business cases, including those risks associated with the IOSs that support outsourcing arrangements.
Implementation of Remote Laboratories for Industrial Education
Authors: Rojko Andreja , Zürcher Thomas , Hercog Darko , Stebler Renato
Published: December 2011

Rapidly changing economics and fast progress in technology require from engineers employed in industry that they constantly refresh and update their professional knowledge. Remote laboratories with learning management systems are very suitable for such industrial education, although they are very rarely used in practice. In this contribution, two solutions for industrial education are presented and evaluated. The first solution is from the University of Maribor, Slovenia. Two different learning platforms with integrated remote laboratories offer courses in basic mechatronics. Courses are applied towards the training of professionals from Slovenian and Austrian industry. The second solution is from the Biel Academy of Applied Science, Switzerland. It is based on the Moodle learning management system and upgraded by the virtual classroom and remote laboratory. Specialized courses that offer a qualification for work with Programmable Logic Controllers are successfully applied in the training of specialists, employed by Siemens, Switzerland. Based on the encouraging results and observed needs of the training participants, a possible future development of remote laboratories and distance learning for industrial education and other potential industrial applications are discussed.
On Infrastructures for Educational Online Laboratories
Authors: Esche Sven K. , Chassapis Constantin
Published: December 2011

This book chapter focuses on online laboratories for educational use, with special emphasis on experiments suitable for engineering and science curricula at the undergraduate level. It starts with a brief review of the early history and current state of the art of online experiments and a discussion of the benefits of existing online laboratory systems. Then, their shortcomings and limitations are critically examined, followed by some thoughts on a possible framework for better leveraging the world-wide development efforts by creating a virtual organization for online laboratories. Finally, some issues related to the efficient management and global sharing of online laboratory resources are raised and a series of cybersecurity problems arising in the context of commercial transactions between educational institutions are described.
Labshare
Authors: Lowe David , Conlon Stephen , Murray Steve , Weber Lothar , de la Villefromoy Michel , Lindsay Euan , Nafalski Andrew , Nageswaran Warren , Tang Tee
Published: December 2011

Conventional undergraduate teaching laboratories are valuable in terms of their contributions to students learning but are generally costly to develop and maintain and often have extremely low overall utilization rates. These issues can be addressed through cross-institutional sharing of laboratories. This is, however, limited by the overarching requirement that students are physically co-located with the laboratory apparatus. In this chapter we will describe the nature of the challenges with regard to cross-institutional sharing and the potential benefits that can be achieved if a solution can be found. A possible solution is the use of remote laboratories that can be accessed across the internet with a suitable model for laboratory sharing that promotes both institutional and individual engagement. We describe the characteristics that such a model should have and show how the Labshare project is providing a nation-wide model within the Australian Higher Education context.
Identity Management Systems
Authors: Alrodhan Waleed
Published: December 2011

Next, we discuss the practicality of identity management systems, and consider how their practicality can be enhanced by developing reliable integration and delegation schemes. We also provide overviews of the Project Concordia integration framework, and the Shibboleth and OAuth delegation frameworks, as well as reviewing the related literature.
Privacy by Design
Authors: Cavoukian Ann
Published: December 2011

This chapter traces the origins of the Privacy by Design (PbD) concept and leadership by the Office of the Information and Privacy Commissioner (IPC) of Ontario, Canada, from the mid-1990s to the current day (2011), with specific attention to three major themes: The evolution of PbD from its early emphasis on information technologies, which also apply to organizational practices and processes, and to broader information eco-systems and architectures; The evolution of the need to articulate and promote a set of universal principles to help guide the design of privacy, from Fair Information Practices to PbD’s 7 Foundational Principles; An account of the evolving work of the IPC in support of the new or “enhanced” FIPs that were codified in the PbD Foundational Principles. The chapter will outline recognition for PbD received, and the challenges ahead.
Social Network Inspired Approach to Intelligent Monitoring of Intelligence Data
Authors: Shen Qiang , Boongoen Tossapon
Published: December 2011

In the wake of recent terrorist atrocities, intelligence experts have commented that failures in detecting terrorist and criminal activities are not so much due to a lack of data, as they are due to difficulties in relating and interpreting the available intelligence. An intelligent tool for monitoring and interpreting intelligence data will provide a helpful means for intelligence analysts to consider emerging scenarios of plausible threats, thereby offering useful assistance in devising and deploying preventive measures against such possibilities. One of the major problems in need of such attention is detecting false identity that has become the common denominator of all serious crime, especially terrorism. Typical approaches to this problem rely on the similarity measure of textual and other content-based characteristics, which are usually not applicable in the case of deceptive and erroneous description. This barrier may be overcome through link information presented in communication behaviors, financial interactions and social networks. Quantitative link-based similarity measures have proven effective for identifying similar problems in the Internet and publication domains. However, these numerical methods only concentrate on link structures, and fail to achieve accurate and coherent interpretation of the information. Inspired by this observation, the chapter presents a novel qualitative similarity measure that makes use of multiple link properties to refine the underlying similarity estimation process and consequently derive semantic-rich similarity descriptors. The approach is based on order-of-magnitude reasoning. Its performance is empirically evaluated over a terrorism-related dataset, and compared against several state-of-the-art link-based algorithms and other alternative methods.
Capturing Market Mavens among Advergamers
Authors: Okazaki Shintaro , Romero Jaime , Campo Sara
Published: December 2011

The objective of this chapter is to identify a market maven segment among advergamers on a mobile-based social networking site (SNS). A real online campaign with a multiplayer game is designed for Procter & Gamble’s Pringles, after which online surveys are conducted via mobile device. Finite mixture models are employed to identify clusters. The estimation results suggest four clusters. The majority group belongs to Clusters 1 (67%) and 2 (21%), while Clusters 3 (6.8%) and 4 (4.8%) exhibit the propensity of market mavens. Specifically, the members of Cluster 3 are likely to have been actively engaged in information search, purchased the sponsor brand, and disseminated their brand knowledge of the brand, mainly through personal conversation after the game play. By contrast, the members of Cluster 4 are unlikely to have sought information, nor to have purchased the brand after the game, but are very likely to have spread their brand knowledge through word-of-mouth. Furthermore, they did so via not only personal conversation but also SNS functions (i.e., messaging, blog, and discussion board). Given this, Clusters 3 and 4 could be labeled as traditional and innovative market mavens, respectively. Our findings suggest that online marketers should identify and incentivize market mavens by branded entertainment so that they can then disseminate information, encourage followers, and generate a viral chain of word-of-mouth.
Postoperative Nausea and Vomiting in Adults: Implications for Critical Care
Authors: Collins Angela Smith
Published: December 2011

Postoperative nausea and vomiting is a dreaded, uncomfortable, and unpleasant patient experience that is also a factor contributing to adverse outcomes in postoperative recovery. The key to management of this concern is to identify high-risk patients and to develop a systematic method of assessment, intervention, and evaluation within the perianesthesia care continuum. This discussion outlines the wide range of pharmacological and alternative therapies that are available in clinical practice with a case study to illustrate incorporation of these interventions in critically ill patients.
Role of Tumor Associated Fibroblasts in Human Liver Regeneration, Cirrhosis, and Cancer
Authors: Cesselli Daniela , Beltrami Antonio Paolo , Poz Alessandra , Marzinotto Stefania , Comisso Elisa , Bergamin Natascha , Bourkoula Evgenia , Pucer Anja , Puppato Elisa , Toffoletto Barbara , Sorrentino Marisa , Baccarani Umberto , Avellini Claudio , Beltrami Carlo Alberto
Published: December 2011

Tumor associated fibroblasts (TAFs) are considered a microenvironmental element critical for tumor growth and progression. Experimental studies suggest that their origin could be from mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) derived from the bone marrow. However, the role played by TAFs in cirrhosis, hepatocellular carcinoma development, and progression is largely unknown, andin vitrohuman models are missing. This paper for the first time demonstrates that (1) human neoplastic livers possess a population of multipotent adult stem cells (MASCs) with properties of TAFs; (2) a population of MASC-derived TAFs is already present in cirrhotic, not yet neoplastic, livers; (3) MASCs isolated from nonneoplastic and noncirrhotic liver scan acquire a TAF phenotype when grown in a medium conditioned by tumor cell lines, supporting the notion that TAF could originate from resident primitive cells (MASCs), possibly through a paracrine mechanism.
Electric Field Analysis of Breast Tumor Cells
Authors: Sree V. Gowri , Udayakumar K. , Sundararajan R.
Published: December 2011

An attractive alternative treatment for malignant tumors that are refractive to conventional therapies, such as surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy, is electrical-pulse-mediated drug delivery. Electric field distribution of tissue/tumor is important for effective treatment of tissues. This paper deals with the electric field distribution study of a tissue model using MAXWELL 3D Simulator. Our results indicate that tumor tissue had lower electric field strength compared to normal cells, which makes them susceptible to electrical-pulse-mediated drug delivery. This difference could be due to the altered properties of tumor cells compared to normal cells, and our results corroborate this.
Severe Gastroenteritis As Presentation of a Primary Cytomegalovirus Infection in an Immunocompetent Woman
Authors: Schreuder Ramon-Michel , de Groot Jan-Willem , Kamper Adriaan M.
Published: December 2011

In immunocompetent hosts, symptomatic cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection occurs in around 10% and has traditionally been considered to have a benign, self-limiting course. Active CMV infection in immunocompetent persons is very rare. However, manifestations of CMV infection in immunocompromised hosts have been extensively reported.We present a case of a 58-year-old immunocompetent woman with a primary cytomegalovirus infection, which presented as a severe gastroenteritis and hepatitis.
Upper Gastrointestinal Bleeding: Audit of a Single Center Experience in Western India
Authors: Rathod Jignesh B. , Shah Dharmendra K. , Yagnik Bhargav D. , Yagnik Vipul D.
Published: December 2011

Upper gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding is defined as bleeding proximal to the ligament of Treitz. The most important aspect of management of GI bleeding is to locate the site and cause of bleeding. The aim of the study is to find out the common etiology, presentation and management, including the role of upper GI endoscopy. Recent advances have meant that endoscopic hemostatic methods are now associated with a reduced rate of re-bleeding, cost, blood transfusion, length of hospital stay and mortality. A prospective study of 50 cases was carried out between August 2001 and July 2003. Patients with signs and symptoms suggestive of upper GI bleeding (UGIB) such as hematemesis, melena, aspirated blood from nasogastric tubes, profuse hematochezia, etc., were included in the study. The patients were selected randomly. The most common cause of UGIB in the present study was acute erosive gastritis (34%) followed by portal hypertension (24%) and peptic ulcer (22%). All 50 patients underwent upper GI endoscopy, of whom 39 patients were treated conservatively and 11 patients underwent endotherapy to control bleeding. Out of 39 patients treated non-endoscopically, 6 cases required laparotomy to control UGIB. 8 of 50 cases had past history of UGIB, 5 of whom had a previous history of endotherapy. One case was treated with devascularization as routine hemostatic methods failed. So, initial method of choice to control the bleeding was endotherapy and surgery was undertaken if an endoscopic method failed. The most common cause of hematemesis in our setting was acute erosive gastritis followed by portal hypertension. Endoscopy is a valuable minimal invasive method to diagnose and treat upper GI bleeding.
A Case of Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia in Pregnancy Characterized by a Complex Translocation t(9;22;11)(q34;q11.2;q13)
Authors: Kumar Surachit , Apostolova Mariya , Woolley Paul
Published: December 2011

The management of chronic myelogenous leukemia during pregnancy requires balancing the well-being of the mother with that of the fetus. We report a case of a 26-year-old lady who was diagnosed with chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML) at 15 weeks gestation and who had an atypical chromosome t(9;22;11) (q34;q11.2;q13) translocation. She was observed through the remainder of the pregnancy and the disease remained stable; she delivered a normal boy. Treatment with imatinib mesylate was initiated shortly after delivery and she went into molecular complete remission. We discuss the course of the disease and suggest guidelines for managing pregnancy with respect to the currently available agents imatinib, dasatinib and nilotinib.
Social Influences, Social Norms, Social Support, and Smoking Behavior among Adolescent Workers
Authors: Fagan Pebbles , Eisenberg Marla , Stoddard Anne M. , Frazier Lindsay , Sorensen Glorian
Published: December 2011

Purpose.

To examine the relationships between worksite interpersonal influences and smoking and quitting behavior among adolescent workers.

Design.

The cross-sectional survey assessed factors influencing tobacco use behavior.

Setting.

During the fall of 1998, data were collected from 10 grocery stores in Massachusetts that were owned and managed by the same company.

Subjects.

Eligible participants included 474 working adolescents ages 15 to 18. Eighty-three percent of workers (n = 379) completed the survey.

Measures.

The self-report questionnaire assessed social influences, social norms, social support, friendship networks, stage of smoking and quitting behavior, employment patterns, and demographic factors.

Results.

Thirty-five percent of respondents were never smokers, 21% experimental, 5% occasional, 18% regular, and 23% former smokers. Using analysis of variance (ANOVA), results indicate that regular smokers were 30% more likely than experimental or occasional smokers to report coworker encouragement to quit (p = .0002). Compared with regular smokers, never smokers were 15% more likely to report greater nonacceptability of smoking (p = .01). χ2 tests of association revealed no differences in friendship networks by stage of smoking.

Conclusions.

These data provide evidence for the need to further explore social factors inside and outside the work environment that influence smoking and quitting behavior among working teens. Interpretations of the data are limited because of cross-sectional and self-report data collection methods used in one segment of the retail sector.
(Mis)-understanding Nation and Identity: Re-imagining Sport in the Future of African Development
Authors: Fibian Kavulani Lukalo
Published: December 2011

Athletics, its obsession and allure for economic empowerment (marathons,World Championships, Golden League track events) through skill and will,unlike any other sport in Kenya, has generated contestations in the emergenceof national identity. Thus the crisis in the body Athletics Kenya (AK), the Ministryfor Gender, Sports and Culture and among individual athletes in Kenyatoday is symbolic of the crisis of individuality, nationhood and identity in Africandevelopment. Since the ‘defection’ of Wilson Kipketer in 1998, Kenyanathletes have negotiated and have ‘run’ for citizenship in the Middle East,Europe and the United States. At stake is whether athletes, athletics, sportspolicy and the governing bodies are witnessing an evolution or devolution inautonomy especially when citizenship changes necessitate identity changes asis the case of the Qatar/Bahrain ‘defecting’ athletes. The paper presents thecase for this issue, while situating the practise of athletes ‘defecting’ within theglobal flows of movement and questions of identity.
Systèmes de transport pour un développement intégré de l’Afrique : vers un réseau routier et ferroviaire panafricain
Authors: José Mvuezolo Bazonzi
Published: December 2011

L’Afrique est un continent immense dont plusieurs contrées sont encore enclavées à ce jour. De ce fait, elle nécessite des systèmes de transport adéquats, efficaces et fort variés, susceptibles d’accélérer son développement. En effet, le manque de communication adéquate entre les zones de production et celles de forte densité et consommation est à l’origine d’un déséquilibre profond et pathologique entre l’offre et la demande globale des biens et services à travers l’espace continental. À côté du transport aérien fort onéreux, il s’avère opportun d’investir dans le transport routier et ferroviaire, plus accessible à la majorité de la population et véritable catalyseur de l’intégration et du développement du continent africain. Ainsi, dans le but de contribuer à la réflexion sur les alternatives au développement de l’Afrique, il nous semble nécessaire de jeter les bases d’une esquisse théorique du réseau routier et ferroviaire ‘panafricain’, dont le but serait de relier les grandes aires économiques et démographiques du continent afin de développer l’unité et la solidarité entre les peuples africains. La route panafricaine aurait la forme d’un triangle isocèle renversé, dont les trois angles seraient Le cap en Afrique du sud, Le Caire en Égypte et Dakar au Sénégal. La structure générale du réseau ferroviaire panafricaincomprendrait un grand axe central allant du Caire au Cap, avec une variante Alger– Le Cap, une transversale Dakar–Mombassa, une boucle périphérique unissant toutes les zones côtières au coeur du continent, et plusieurs autres axes reliant entre elles les différentes régions. L’implantation de ces structures devrait se faire selon une nouvelle conception de l’intégration régionale ayant pour fondement le commerce et l’investissement, l’exploitation concertée des ressources naturelles, l’implication du secteur privé, l’industrialisation axée sur les exportations ainsi que le développement des infrastructures efficaces et rentables, capables de briser le cercle de la pauvreté et les cycles de violences.
Fourier Transform of Lookback Option Price
Authors: Wang Cheng , Zou Hailei , Yin Juncheng
Published: December 2011

The Fourier transform of the damped price of Lookback option under B-S model is presented. Thus, the Lookback option across a range of strikes can be simultaneously priced via FFT algorithm. FFT algorithm is more efficient than both Monte Carlo simulation method and the integral of the usual pricing formula. In addition, by FFT algorithm, investors can easily capture the sensitivity of option prices when the strike prices vary as to make reasonable investment decisions.
Targeting Fatigue in Stroke Patients
Authors: Barritt Andrew W. , Smithard David G.
Published: December 2011

Symptoms of fatigue are often reported by patients in both the acute and chronic stages of recovery following a stroke. It is commonly associated with low mood and sleep disturbances, but can arise in their absence. However, it has also been associated with poorer long-term outcome and, as such, its aetiology warrants a greater understanding. There is convincing evidence that inflammatory cascades and cytokine signalling precipitated by the infarct promote fatigue, and these pathways may harbour therapeutic targets in its management.
Intercropping Sorghum (Sorghum bicolor L.) and Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L.): Effect of Bradyrhizobium Inoculation and Fertilization on Minerals Composition of Sorghum Seeds
Authors: Musa Ekhlas M. , Elsheikh Elsiddig A. E. , Mohamed Ahmed Isam A. , Babiker Elfadil E.
Published: December 2011

This investigation
was carried out in order to gain a better
understanding of the effect of
Bradyrhizobium inoculation and
fertilization on the nutritional values of
macro- and micronutrients of sorghum
intercropped with cowpea in the field under
rainfed conditions. The results of the present
study demonstrated that intercropping,
Bradyrhizobium inoculation, and
N and P fertilization had significant effect on
the mineral status of sorghum seeds.
Intercropping significantly increased Ca, Mg, Cu, Mn, and Fe contents of sorghum
seeds, while it had no effect on the concentration of P, K, Na,
and Zn in the sorghum seeds. However,
Bradyrhizobium inoculation did not enhanced the
most of minerals content of sorghum in both cropping systems; it slightly reduced the phosphorous content of sorghum seeds in
the two cropping systems. Results of application of N and P
fertilizers separately or combined with
Bradyrhizobium showed fluctuated effect on the
mineral contents in both cropping systems and both
seasons.
Health Effects Associated with Foreclosure: A Secondary Analysis of Hospital Discharge Data
Authors: Menzel Nancy N. , Moonie Sheniz , Thompson-Robinson Melva
Published: December 2011

Objectives. The purpose of this study was to assess the health effects of high home foreclosure rates in an area of the United States of America and the utility of hospital discharge data for this purpose. Methods. We analyzed hospital discharge data from three postal zip codes using the principal diagnosis for 25 Diagnostic Related Groups associated with stress. Descriptive statistics were used to characterize hospital discharge rates for each condition by year and zip code. To test for differences across time, the Cochran-Armitage trend test was performed. Results. Most conditions did not demonstrate a statistical change between 2005 and 2008. There was a marked spike in bipolar and depressive disorders in 2007 in all zip codes. Conclusions. The sharp rise for bipolar and depressive disorders in 2007 coincides with the doubling of foreclosure filings nationally. There are many confounding factors affecting hospital discharge data, which limit its specificity for assessing the health effects of foreclosure.
Cutaneous Rosai-Dorfman Disease With Increased Number of Eosinophils: Coincidence or Histologic Variant?
Authors: Cangelosi John J , Prieto Victor G , Ivan Doina
Published: December 2011

Rosai-Dorfman disease (RDD) is characterized histologically by a dense histiocytic infiltrate with emperipolesis and associated lymphocytes, plasma cells, and neutrophils. Eosinophils are not commonly associated. We report a patient with initial thymus and pituitary gland involvement by RDD, who later developed papules on the groin and axilla. Skin biopsies showed admixed histiocytic infiltrates (lymphocytes, neutrophils, and plasma cells) without emperipolesis. A prominent eosinophilic infiltrate was also observed, a feature not, to our knowledge, previously reported. Immunohistochemistry revealed positivity for CD68 (most cells) and S100 protein (scattered cells) and was negative for anti-CD1a. The diagnosis of RDD was established in the clinical context after comparison with the thymic and pituitary lesions (similar histologic features, albeit with fewer eosinophils, and immunohistochemical profiles). We present the first case, to our knowledge, of multicentric RDD with cutaneous involvement and associated prominent eosinophilic infiltrate. Thus, RDD should be included in the differential diagnosis of mononuclear infiltrates containing eosinophils.
Usefulness of Serum Anti-p53 Antibody Assay for Lung Cancer Diagnosis
Authors: Park Yongjung , Kim Yoonjung , Lee Jong-Han , Lee Eun Young , Kim Hyon-Suk
Published: December 2011

Context.—Some tumor markers, including carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) and cytokeratin 19 fragment (CYFRA 21-1), are used for the detection of lung cancer; however, their use is limited because of low sensitivities and high false-positive rates.

Objectives.—To investigate the usefulness of an anti-p53 assay in detecting lung cancer and to compare the anti-p53 to CEA and CYFRA 21-1 tumor markers.

Design.—Serum samples were collected from 82 patients with lung cancer. Sera were also collected from 79 patients with or without benign pulmonary disease for the control group. All 161 specimens were assayed for CEA, CYFRA 21-1, and anti-p53. The diagnostic performances of these markers were compared using receiver operating characteristic analysis.

Results.—The receiver operating characteristic area under the curve values of CYFRA 21-1, CEA, and anti-p53 for discriminating lung cancers from benign or healthy conditions were 0.79, 0.81, and 0.79, respectively. Area under the curve for the 3 markers in combination was 0.90. The sensitivities of those markers for lung cancer detection were respectively 39.0%, 53.7%, and 34.1% at 94.9% specificity, and the cutoff levels at those sensitivities and specificities were 4.5 ng/mL for CYFRA 21-1, 5.4 ng/mL for CEA, and 2.7 U/mL for anti-p53. We found 79.3% positive results for patients with lung cancer by any of the 3 markers, and 12.2% were positive only for anti-p53. All patients without cancer had negative results for 2 or all 3 markers.

Conclusions.—Anti-p53 combined with other conventional markers is helpful in increasing the sensitivity and specificity for detecting lung cancer.
Age-Related Decrease in Striatal DA Produces Cognitive Deficits in Male Rats
Authors: Haider Saida , Tabassum Saiqa , Perveen Tahira , Ali Sarmad , Saleem Sadia , Khan Aisha Karim , Haleem Darakhshan J.
Published: December 2011

Aging is a process that presents various alterations in physiological, behavioral and neurochemical processes. It causes impairment of CNS functions which lead to changes in memory, cognition and other behavioral performances. Reports have shown that aging causes neurochemical alterations in various physiological functions. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the cognitive changes in relation to process of aging. For this 20 male rats were taken, 10 young (4-6 months) and 10 old (18-22 months). Morris Water Maze (MWM) test was performed to monitor changes in learning and memory while Object-Recognition Task (ORT) was performed to evaluate changes in cognitive function. After behavioral assessment decapitation was done and rat brain was dissected to isolate striatum. Then neurochemical analysis was performed by HPLC-EC to monitor changes in striatal DA and DOPAC levels. Results of behavioral tests showed that aged rats exhibited a significant impairment of long-term memory. While cognitive ability assessed by ORT was also impaired in aged rats. Neurochemical results showed that there was a significant decline in striatal dopamine (DA) concentration while its metabolite DOPAC was significantly increased in aged rats. Hence aging has a significant negative influence on cognitive functions. Age-related behavioral deficits may occur as a result of decline in DA levels in striatum leading to changes in memory and cognitive performance.
A Review on Phytochemicals from Some Medicinal Plants of Bangladesh
Authors: Kaisar Mohammad A. , Rahman Mohammad S. , Rahman Mohammed Z. , Hasan Choudhury M. , Rashid Mohammad A.
Published: December 2011

Natural products, especially those derived from higher plants, have attracted scientists from ancient time because of their potential therapeutic values. Drug development from natural sources showed that natural products or natural product-derived drugs comprised about 28% of all new chemical entities launched to the market. These are originated from terrestrial plants, microbes, marine organisms, etc. However, until recently an insignificant part of the plants has been scientifically evaluated for their medicinal properties. Bangladesh is a rich repository of medicinal plants, many of which are widely used in the Ayurvedic, Unani, herbal and other traditional systems of medicines. In our laboratory, we have extensively investigated over 48 medicinal plants and several microbial strains that have resulted in the isolation and characterization of 133 compounds, including 33 new molecules. Terpenoids, alkaloids, flavonoids and glycosides were the major classes of constituents. The crude extractives and several purified molecules demonstrated statistically significant inhibition of growth of microorganisms. On the other hand, usnic acid obtained from the lichen, Parmelia kamtschandalis, demonstrated even better of inhibition of microbial growth as compared to the standard antimicrobial agents, whereas dehydroaltenusin extracted from a Streptomyces sp. exhibited significant HIV-inhibitory activity.
Live‐Cell Immunofluorescence Staining of Human Pluripotent Stem Cells
Authors: Manos Philip D. , Ratanasirintrawoot Sutheera , Loewer Sabine , Daley George Q. , Schlaeger Thorsten M.
Published: December 2011

Antibodies are instrumental tools in stem cell identification, purification, and analysis. Most commonly, cell samples are either dissociated to obtain a single‐cell suspension suitable for FACS analysis or cell sorting, or fixed in situ for immunostaining and fluorescence microscopy imaging. This unit describes an alternative method in which live adherent cells are stained and imaged in situ without the need for cell dissociation, fixation, or fluorescent reporter genes. This minimally invasive method is particularly useful for identification and distinction of fully and partially reprogrammed induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs). The unit also describes the use of mCD49e and hCD29 antibodies in live‐cell (vital) imaging. mCD49e strongly stains mouse embryonic fibroblast (MEF) feeder cells in human pluripotent stem cell cultures, whereas hCD29 recognizes an antigen expressed on undifferentiated and many differentiated cells. A distinguishing feature of hCD29 in live‐cell staining is that its antigen is precluded from detection wherever cells have formed tight epithelial junctions (e.g., in the center but not the periphery of pluripotent stem cell colonies) due to basolateral location. A non‐fluorescent fixed‐cell staining protocol is also provided for medium‐ to high‐throughput quantification of stem cell experiments without an automated microscope. The discussion addresses technical limitations, pitfalls, troubleshooting, and potential applications, such as identification of emerging bona fide human iPSC colonies in reprogramming experiments. Curr. Protoc. Stem Cell Biol. 19:1C.12.1‐1C.12.14. © 2011 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Organotypic Explant Culture of Glioblastoma Multiforme and Subsequent Single‐Cell Suspension
Authors: Shimizu Fumiko , Hovinga Koos E. , Metzner Michael , Soulet Denis , Tabar Viviane
Published: December 2011

Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is one of the most aggressive brain tumors. GBM cell lines used in laboratory studies are frequently passaged in various culture media at high proliferation rates, resulting in significant genetic and molecular alterations. Thus, data obtained in cell lines are often inapplicable to patient tumors. Furthermore, recent studies suggest that there is a stem cell–like hierarchy among GBM cell populations and a crucial role for tumor vasculature in stem cells, as well as tumor growth, which cannot be reproduced in cell line cultures. Our laboratory has developed a novel three‐dimensional (3D) organotypic “explant” system of surgical GBM specimens that preserves tumor cells in their original milieu, as well as the cytoarchitecture of the tumor stroma. Our previous study on the role of Notch inhibition has demonstrated a definitive effect on the tumor endothelium that could only be highlighted by this system. In this unit, we describe a detailed protocol for preparing GBM explants, and discuss strengths, as well as limitations of the explant system as an in vitro 3D model of GBM. Curr. Protoc. Stem Cell Biol. 19:3.5.1‐3.5.9. © 2011 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Safeguarding the Needs of Children and Young People Seeking Asylum in the UK: Addressing Past Failings and Meeting Future Challenges
Authors: Hek Rachel , Hughes Nathan , Ozman Roberto
Published: December 2011

Numerous reviews of UK policy and practice have criticised the provision of support to children and young people seeking asylum. Recent research and policy analysis present a dual failure in the current response: that of the immigration system in recognising and responding to specific needs; and that of statutory services in applying key legislation relating to rights, entitlements and subsequent provision. In combination, this illustrates a system that is at all times in tension between ideas of control and protection of these vulnerable young people, and ultimately therefore fails to safeguard.

‘A system that is at all times in tension between ideas of control and protection’

Recent changes to government policy, the legislative framework and practice guidance governing such provision suggest that such failings may have been recognised but much work remains to be done to implement these changes effectively. Furthermore, these changes are occurring in a period of significant instability in public service provision, resulting from the severe cuts to public funding outlined in the UK Government's 2010 Comprehensive Spending Review (HM Treasury, 2010). It is therefore timely to review current policy and practice related to children and young people seeking asylum in the UK so as to address past failings and fully realise the stated commitment to ensure a young person's ‘best interests’ are fully considered in any immigration decision. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Key Practitioner Messages

Refugee and asylum seeking children's welfare should be the primary focus of practice rather than immigration policy.

Provision of safe, suitable accommodation, appropriate education, emotional support and leisure activities are key to children's wellbeing.

Refugee and asylum seeking children in families tend to receive even less services than unaccompanied children.

Practitioners should ensure that where possible they work with the whole family and the wider community to provide appropriate services.

‘Refugee and asylum seeking children's welfare should be the primary focus of practice rather than immigration policy’
Amplatzer septal occluder to treat iatrogenic cardiac perforations
Authors: Stolt Valérie , Cook Stéphane , Räber Lorenz , Wani Sunil , Garachamani Ali , Vogel Rolf , Seiler Christian , Windecker Stephan , Meier Bernhard
Published: December 2011

Background: Iatrogenic free wall cardiac perforation is a rare but serious complication encountered during percutaneous cardiac procedures, which usually leads to tamponade and death. Septal occluder devices have been developed for sealing intracardiac shunts but may be also used in this emergency setting. Methods and Results: We report a small series of five consecutive cases of iatrogenic heart perforations that were treated with implantation of Amplatzer Septal Occluders (ASO). In the first case, iatrogenic left ventricle (LV) perforation occurred during LV biopsy and could be closed up with a 4 mm ASO. In the second case, a 4 mm ASO was used for sealing of a right atrial perforation allocated to Port‐a‐Cath dislodgment. The third case happened during transseptal puncture for implantation of a TandemHeart bVAD device in a patient suffering cardiogenic shock and was treated by implantation of a 5 mm ASO. The fourth patient was transferred to our facilities for percutaneous closure of an acute post‐infarct VSD after anteroseptal myocardial infarction. This procedure was complicated by perforation of the posterolateral free wall and led to the deployment of 12 mm ASO. The last patient suffered from free LV wall perforation during investigation of a severe aortic stenosis and was treated by implantation of 4 mm ASO. All patients were alive after 24 hrs but the last patient died during the in‐hospital stay of a right ventricular infarction complicated by multiple organ failure. Conclusions: Percutaneous device occlusion of iatrogenic heart perforation seems to be a safe and efficient method to treat iatrogenic heart perforation. In order to perform this elegant method, it is however imperative not to prematurely withdraw the perforating catheter to maintain access to the hole for closure. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
ChemInform Abstract: The Crystal Structure of Yb2(SO4)3·3H2O and Its Decomposition Product, β‐Yb2(SO4)3.
Authors: Mills Stuart J. , Petricek Vaclav , Kampf Anthony R. , Herbst‐Imer Regine , Raudsepp Mati
Published: December 2011

Yb2(SO4)3·3H2O (I) is hydrothermally synthesized from an aqueous mixture of Yb2O3 and H2SO4 (autoclave, 220 °C, 400 h).
ChemInform Abstract: Morphology‐Controlled Synthesis and Efficient Photocatalytic Performances of a New Promising Photocatalyst Sr0.25H1.5Ta2O6 ·H2O.
Authors: Liang Shijing , Shen Lijuan , Zhu Jia , Zhang Yongfan , Wang Xuxu , Li Zhaohui , Wu Ling , Fu Xianzhi
Published: December 2011

The title photocatalyst with high surface area is hydrothermally prepared from mixtures of Ta2O5·nH2O Sr(NO3)2, NaOH, and H2O (autoclave, 200 °C).
ChemInform Abstract: Nickel‐Catalyzed Amination of Aryl Carbamates and Sequential Site‐Selective Cross‐Couplings.
Authors: Mesganaw Tehetena , Silberstein Amanda L. , Ramgren Stephen D. , Nathel Noah F. Fine , Hong Xin , Liu Peng , Garg Neil K.
Published: December 2011

The method is broad in scope with respect to both coupling partners.