bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dutch workers and time pressure: household and workplace characteristics
Authors: van der Lippe Tanja
Published: November 2007

Balancing work with family life has become one of the most important issues for families nowadays. In this article I study the varying degrees of success of governance structures in households and firms in dealing with competing time claims. Using Dutch data from firms, employees and their spouses and performing regression analyses with robust estimation to test the hypotheses, the results show that more modern organizations characterized by heavy deadlines and a large amount of autonomy for individual employees give more feelings of time pressure. With respect to the organization of the household, especially the presence of young children, time spent on domestic and paid work and existing household rules explain feelings of time pressure. Gender also appears to be important. Men are influenced more by workplace characteristics, and women more by household characteristics.
For better or worse? Workplace changes and the health and well-being of Norwegian workers
Authors: Østhus Ståle
Published: November 2007

Previous research has not always distinguished between downsizing and broader organizational redesign, or at least not analysed the two together, and may therefore have confounded the effects of the two on employees' health and well-being. Analyses of cross-sectional data on Norwegian employees ( N = 1944) suggest that downsizing and internal reorganization affects employees in predominantly negative ways. Neither downsizing nor internal reorganization of work are related to employees' level of task discretion. Internal reorganization is related to high work demands, job insecurity, low job satisfaction and work related health problems. Downsizing is related to high work demands and job insecurity, but the associations with job satisfaction and work related health problems are rather weak. Downsizing is more closely related to job insecurity than is reorganization, but reorganization is more closely related to high work demands, low job satisfaction and work related health problems than is downsizing.
Effect of Varieties on the Composition of Dates (Phoenix dactylifera L.) — Note
Authors: Sahari M.A. , Barzegar M. , Radfar R.
Published: November 2007

Thirty-four date (Phoenix dactylifera L.) varieties, from start of Tamr stage of maturity, were analyzed for moisture, protein, lipid and ash. The mean percent of moisture, protein, lipid and ash were 29.35, 3.3, 0.42 and 2.25 g/100 g (fresh weight basis), respectively. Predominant sugars were fructose (12.62—43.31 g/100 g) and glucose (16.41—54.23 g/100 g, fresh weight basis). Sucrose was not practically detected in most varieties (excepting in Zark variety). Mineral elements such as Na, Mg, K and Ca were determined by ICP atomic spectroscopy and their amounts were in the range of 4.46—47.74, 18.44—79.35, 203.61—982.97 and 23.24—73.85 mg/100 g (dry weight basis), respectively. These results were generally in agreement with those reported previously for some other varieties grown in the other dates producing countries. A few differences will be related to date variety, agro-climatic and environmental conditions.
Impact of Wooden Barrel Storage on the Volatile Composition and Sensorial Profile of Red Wine
Authors: Arfelli G. , Sartini E. , Corzani C. , Fabiani A. , Natali N.
Published: November 2007

This study determined the influence of the kind of wood (Allier vs Limousin and Allier vs chestnut), the age (new vs 1 year old Allier oak barriques) and the volume (1000 L vs 225 L ) of Allier oak containers on sensorial profile and volatile composition of a red Sangiovese wine during 360 days of ageing. The greatest sensory differences were found between Allier oak wood and chestnut wood barriques. In chestnut barriques, wines were more fruited and tannic than in Allier where wines were less astringent, more vanilla flavoured and well-balanced. Some differences in chemical composition and sensorial profile were observed in wines aged in used containers with different capacities. The use of containers showed that migration phenomena from wood to wine were more intense in new barriques than in used ones. Therefore, wines aged in new barriques were richer in volatile wood compounds than wines aged in old barriques.
Functional Properties of Extrudates Prepared with Blends of Wheat Flour/Pinto Bean Meal with Added Wheat Bran
Authors: Hernández-Díaz J.R. , Quintero-Ramos A. , Barnard J. , Balandrán-Quintana R.R.
Published: November 2007

Blends made of wheat flour and bean meal at various levels of moisture and bran content, were subjected to extrusion cooking by varying temperature and screw speed. Extrudates were analysed for expansion index, bulk density, apparent viscosity, water absorption index and water solubility index using a second-order rotatable central composite design. Excepting water absorption index, functional properties were significantly affected ( p<0.05) by levels of moisture, bran or extrusion conditions. Expansion index decreased with increasing levels of moisture in the blends; for bran the effect was the inverse. Response surface solution for apparent viscosity was maximum at 24% levels of moisture, 209r.p.m., 180°C and 10% bran. For water absorption index the response surface solution was a saddle point, with a minimum at 29% levels of moisture, 232r.p.m., 177°C and 25% bran. The higher apparent viscosity and lower absorption index reflected minor damage to starch and proteins, which was attributed to a protective role of the added fibre.
Quality and Shelf Life of Mango (Mangifera Indica L. cv. `Tainong') Coated by Using Chitosan and Polyphenols
Authors: Wang J. , Wang B. , Jiang W. , Zhao Y.
Published: November 2007

Chitosan-based coatings were used to delay ripening and prolong shelf-life of mango fruit stored at 15±1°C and 85—90% RH for 35 days. Mango fruits were treated with 2% chitosan solution or with 2% chitosan containing 1% tea polyphenols (TP—chitosan). Samples were taken at regular intervals for analysis. Results indicated that chitosan coating alone could decrease the decay incidence and weight loss, and delay the change in colour, pH and titratable acidity of mango fruit during storage. While coating the fruit with TP—chitosan was more effective at keeping quality of the fruit during storage. Firmness of the control fruit declined rapidly to 18.6 N after 5 days of storage at 15°C, which was 22.8% or 71.5% lower than that of the fruit treated with chitosan or TP—chitosan, respectively. Sensory quality of mango was enhanced significantly by the TP—chitosan coating compared with chitosan coating alone. These results suggested that treatment with chitosan containing TP exhibited high potential for shelf-life extension of mango fruit.
Note: Moisture Sorption Isotherms and Isosteric Heat of Red Bell Pepper (var. Lamuyo)
Authors: Vega-Gálvez A. , Lemus-Mondaca R. , Fito P. , Andrés A.
Published: November 2007

Sorption isotherms of red pepper (var. Lamuyo) were determined at three temperatures (10, 20 and 30°C) in a range of water activity from 0.10 to 0.96. BET, GAB, Halsey, Herderson, Caurie, Smith, Oswin and Iglesias—Chirife equations were tested for modelling the sorption isotherms. The statistical evaluation of fit quality of the preceding models showed good results using the BET, GAB, Halsey and Iglesias—Chirife models on experimental sorption data. The BET and GAB models showed monolayer moisture contents from 0.07 to 0.10 g water/g (d.b.); however, they did not show direct dependence on temperature. The Clausius—Clapeyron equation satisfactorily determined the sorption isosteric heats, which were found to increase as the moisture content decreased; the desorption heat (74.2kJ/mol) was higher than that of adsorption heat (36.9kJ/mol). The preceding experimental data showed a good quality fit when evaluated with the Tsami equation.
Alternative Use of Chickpea Flour in Breadmaking: Chemical Composition and Starch Digestibility of Bread
Authors: Utrilla-Coello R.G. , Osorio-Díaz P. , Bello-Pérez L.A.
Published: November 2007

Chickpea flour (CF) was prepared and used as an ingredient for elaboration of bread with different levels of wheat versus CFs (80 : 20 and 60: 40). Available starch (AS), resistant starch (RS), dietary fibre (DF), the in vitro starch hydrolysis indices (HIs), using a chewing/dialysis digestion protocol and the acceptability of the experimental bread were compared with those of a control bread prepared with wheat flour and baked in the laboratory. HIs were used to predict glyceamic indices (pGI). The bread analysed did not show differences in moisture, lipids and ash content, but CF-bread had higher protein, RS and DF amount than control bread. HI-based pGI for the CF-bread were 46.92 and 34.67%, which were significantly lower than control bread (65.31%), suggesting a `slow carbohydrate' feature for the CF-based goods. The slow digestion characteristics of chickpea are largely retained in the experimental bread. Data support the perceived health beneficial properties of legumes and CF might be used as a potential ingredient for bakery products with slowly digestible carbohydrates.
A Small Dose of HIV? HIV Vaccine Mental Models and Risk Communication
Authors: Newman Peter A. , Seiden Danielle S. , Roberts Kathleen J. , Kakinami Lisa , Naihua Duan
Published: November 2007

Existing knowledge and beliefs related to HIV vaccines provide an important basis for the development of risk communication messages to support future HIV vaccine dissemination. This study explored HIV vaccine mental models among adults from segments of the population disproportionately affected by HIV/AIDS. Nine focus groups were conducted with participants ( N = 99; median age = 33 years; 48% female; 22% African American, 44% Latino, and 28% white) recruited from needle exchange sites, public clinics, and gay community centers in Los Angeles. Data were analyzed using narrative thematic analysis and Ethnograph qualitative software. Mental models of HIV vaccines included live virus, side effects, complete protection (100% efficacy, lifetime protection, reduced anxiety about HIV/AIDS), and “high-risk groups.” HIV vaccine risk communication to counter undue fears of vaccine-induced infection and side effects and to mitigate exaggerated expectations of a “magic bullet” may be vital to the effectiveness of first-generation HIV vaccines in controlling the AIDS epidemic.
The cyclical process of action research
Authors: Drummond John S. , Themessl-Huber Markus
Published: November 2007

Action Research is normally described as both a cyclical process and a participatory (democratic/egalitarian) undertaking. This article does not seek to contest the idiosyncrasies and pragmatics of the cyclical process involved in action research. Rather, it seeks to enrich it by developing further the idea of action research as a process that engages with problems and learning in the act of creating change. To do this we draw primarily on aspects of the work of the French philosopher, Gilles Deleuze. Deleuze has argued that all learning is essentially a direct apprentice-type engagement with the problematic nature of the material or project under consideration. We argue that an explication of what Deleuze means by this can augment our understanding of the contingencies involved in both the participatory and cyclical dimensions of action research. To give explanatory substance to Deleuze's potential contribution to action research, we use illustrative moments based on a hypothetical scenario of the development of a large piece of waste-ground into a community gardening project. We seek to connect aspects of Deleuzian philosophy to the cyclical process of action research to show the dynamic relationship between action researchers and an action research project. Our argument is that in doing this, an understanding of the variables involved in the cyclical process of action research may be enhanced.
Social Learning, academics and NGOs
Authors: Buchy Marlène , Ahmed Sara
Published: November 2007

Collaboration between NGOs and academics offers great potential for improving practical intervention as well as testing theories and challenging academic assumptions. In this article we reflect on why, despite a specific focus of an action research project on Social Learning as an appropriate process for change, the formalized `learning' part within the project was the most difficult to achieve. We argue that although at one level some of the pitfalls could easily be dismissed as bad practice, at another level, a critical analysis uncovers structural and cultural issues inherent to collaborative work between academics and practitioners. These further compound efforts to experiment with Social Learning as well as engage in action and research.
'We thought we "knew"', so we "did"'
Authors: Lavie-Ajayi Maya , Holmes Demelza , Jones Colette
Published: November 2007

In 2004, YWCA England & Wales began a two-year action research project with young women made possible with a grant from Big Lottery Fund. The research comprised four co-operative inquiry groups of young women in different geographical locations and of different composition. Each group met regularly and inquires, together with two YWCA project workers, about safe expression of sexuality and young women's sexual health. This article gives a practical account of the initial stages of the research; explores the challenges of doing co-operative inquiry and offers recommendations for other researchers who consider using this method. Particular attention is given to the challenges of working collaboratively in a hierarchical organization. It is argued that to establish collaborative relationships within the inquiry groups, similar relationships need to be demonstrated by the organization's staff and established within the organization's structures.
Transforming management fashions into praxis
Authors: Rolfsen Monica , Knutstad Gaute
Published: November 2007

We analyze the way action research can be used to take a very conventional kind of imposed change process and turn it into a more deeply transformative and yet practically successful intervention. In the project with the automotive supplier `AutoParts' our goal was to implement team organization. AutoParts' motive was a need to give the impression of being a `lean' company, and teams were thus seen as necessary. The top manager thought of the implementation as a planned process that should be discussed in the management team and then implemented. We participated in these discussions, but meanwhile worked out practical solutions together with the actual teams of workers as an action research project. The management team did not make any progress while the bottom-up strategy was quite successful. The main reason, as we will argue, was that this process helped the teams to reach beyond the `black box' approach and start reframing how the team concept could be useful in their particular work situation. The two teams we will describe also came up with quite different team concepts because their challenges were different. In our opinion, the success could not have been achieved without the action research method, where we were considered both insiders and outsiders, spent a lot of time on the shop floor, and worked together with the team members as co-researchers to define their own concepts of the team.
Diabetes and the risk of tuberculosis: a neglected threat to public health?
Authors: Stevenson Catherine R. , Critchley Julia A. , Forouhi Nita G. , Roglic Gojka , Williams Brian G. , Dye Christopher , Unwin Nigel C.
Published: November 2007

Objectives: Tuberculosis (TB) remains a major global public health problem. In the past, a relationship between TB and diabetes mellitus (DM) was recognized, and its importance was acknowledged through joint treatment clinics. However, this is rarely highlighted in current research or control priorities. This paper aims to evaluate the evidence for an association between these two diseases.

Methods: A Medline literature search was undertaken, supplemented by checking references and contacting experts. We critically appraised studies that quantified the association between TB and DM, and were published after 1995. We assessed study quality according to criteria such as sample size, method of selection of cases and controls, losses to follow-up, quality and method of control of confounding, and summarized the results narratively and in tabular form.

Results: All studies identified statistically significant and clinically important associations, with the increase in risk or odds of TB varying between 1.5- and 7.8-fold for those with DM. Risk was highest at younger ages. Most studies had not measured and controlled adequately for potential major confounders.

Discussion: There is strong evidence for an association between TB and DM, which has potential public health implications. Further well-designed studies are needed to assess the magnitude precisely.
The Theory of the Firm, the Theory of Competition and the Transnational Corporation
Authors: Kapler Janis K.
Published: November 2007

Coase's 1937 paper on ‘The Nature of the Firm’ formed the basis of the transaction-cost and internalization theories of transnational enterprises in the 1970s through 1990s. These emphasized the problem of firms transferring intangible assets across national borders. Newer theories of the firm adopt resource-based Penrosian, knowledge-based, capabilities and evolutionary perspectives, yet most continue to explain the international firm as a function of transaction-cost economizing. It is argued that Coase's intention was to present a theory of the firm abstracted from its competitive environment. The application of this approach to a theory of the transnational corporation (TNC) is flawed because it cannot explain the TNC without reference to competitive conditions. This leaves us with incomplete theories of multinational firms, because they address transaction-cost problems and solutions to the exclusion of many other competitive considerations that must influence the transnational step in the firm's evolution. The newer knowledge-based theories of the firm represent progress because they focus on the institutional details of dynamic firm investment in the intangible or knowledge-based competitive assets by which firms transform their environments. Most recently, theory has begun to emphasize the advantages and not just the costs of internationalization. Additionally, the necessity to address the juxtaposition of internalization and externalization by global firms provides a context for creating a dynamic explanation of both. The key is to recognize the process of standardization as a part of the process of innovation at the heart of learning-based theories. This can help to explain the hierarchical division of labor both within and between firms.
Recent Advances in Ultrasound Diagnosis of Ovarian Lesions
Authors: Marret Henri , Sauget Stéphane , Bleuzen Aurore , Tranquart François
Published: November 2007

Ultrasound is used widely for the detection and characterisation of ovarian lesions both for screening and in the symptomatic female pelvis. B-mode is the first-line tool for detection of masses and provides some initial information relating to whether appearances may be due to benign or malignant pathology. However the use of colour and spectral Doppler imaging and ultrasound contrast agents (UCAs) could contribute further information to assist in diagnosis. In this paper, we summarise recent developments in our use of contrast media and Doppler ultrasound. We report on our experience of using Doppler ultrasound to assess ovarian lesions in order to improve pre-operative characterisation and demonstrate that this helps physicians to better classify these lesions. In addition, we have found recently that the use of UCAs aids visualisation of vessels within ovarian masses and allows for differentiation between highly-perfused and non-perfused areas. Such information further assists the clinician to make a more confident diagnosis. In summary, recent technological developments in Doppler ultrasound as well as developments in the use of UCAs undoubtedly improve the potential for sonographic characterisation of ovarian lesions.
'Clinical Audit – an Update for Ultrasound Practitioners'
Authors: Al-Qaisi Mo , Deane Colin , Goss David E , Aitken Victoria
Published: November 2007

This paper presents an evidence-based update about clinical audit for ultrasound practitioners. Clinical audit is defined as a dynamic quality-assurance tool that is used to sample the performance in a department for comparison against the desired standard. The identification and explicit definition of a relevant evidence-based target standard at the start facilitates the evaluation of the department's performance. There are many challenges to introducing change to the usual clinical practice of a department, if it is required. One of the most important barriers to introducing change is disproportionate workload. The traditional view that feedback after clinical audit is effective in changing practice is questioned. The role of clinical audit is re-defined as one of checking standards against the agreed norms for a profession. Changing clinical practice will require multifaceted strategies that should not rely on feedback after clinical audit.
The Ultrasound Diagnosis of Placenta Accreta
Authors: Comstock Christine H.
Published: November 2007

Placental attachment disorders (placenta accreta, increta and percreta) have increased in the last 20 years as the number of Caesarean sections and maternal age have increased. Although maternal mortality has decreased in major centers, probably due to improvements in blood banking and intensive care, it is still a life threatening condition and requires advance planning and significant hospital resources. Placenta accreta can cause problems in any trimester, e.g. early uterine rupture, bleeding after dilatation and curettage and massive bleeding at delivery. For these reasons there have been active efforts to identify placenta accreta prospectively. In early pregnancy attachment of the gestational sac to a previous Caesarean section scar or unusual vascular spaces in the early placenta suggest placenta accreta. In the second and third trimesters the most useful sign is the presence of irregular vascular lacunae with arterial blood flow within them. Colour Doppler is an adjunct technique but grey scale ultrasound is adequate for most diagnoses. Although the literature has addressed the appearance of placenta accreta in patients who have placenta praevia and previous Caesarean sections, there is as yet no knowledge of the appearance in patients without previous surgery, an occurrence which is rare but does exist. The role of Magnetic Resonance Imaging is not yet clear, but with eventual improvement in scan times and resolution it may be used in the future in patients who have ultrasound evidence for accreta.
Initiating oral breathing in response to nasal loading: asthmaticsversushealthy subjects
Authors: Hallani M. , Wheatley J. R. , Amis T. C.
Published: November 2007

Factors influencing nasalversusoral breathing in asthmatics are not well understood. The current authors hypothesised that asthmatic subjects have enhanced perception of nasal threshold loads, and switch from nasal to oral breathing at a lower load than healthy subjects.

In total, 15 mild asthmatic and 20 healthy control subjects breathed nasallyviaan inspiratory threshold loading device. Nasal loading was progressively increased until subjects switched to oral breathing. Load perception at switching was rated using a Borg scale. Nasal resistance was measured using posterior rhinomanometry. The protocol was repeated before and after nasal decongestant administration in subgroups of 10 healthy control and six asthmatic subjects.

Inspiratory nasal resistance was within normal limits for most subjects and was not significantly different between asthmatics and healthy controls. Compared with controls, asthmatics switched to oral breathing at a significantly lower nasal load but rated “difficulty breathing in” at the same level. Decongestant significantly lowered nasal resistance but did not change the nasal load initiating switching in either subgroup.

Enhanced perception of nasal loading may trigger increased oral breathing in asthmatics, potentially enhancing exposure to nonconditioned inhaled gas and contributing to the occurrence and/or severity of bronchoconstrictive exacerbations.
Respiratory effects of occupational exposures in a milk powder factory
Authors: Sripaiboonkij P. , Phanprasit W. , Jaakkola M. S.
Published: November 2007

Ingestion of milk powder is a known cause of allergies in children, but the risks to respiratory health from exposure to inhaled milk powder have not been studied previously. The aim of the present study was to assess the effects of occupational exposures in a milk powder factory on respiratory symptoms and lung function.

A cross-sectional study was conducted on 167 milk powder factory workers (response rate 77%) and 76 office workers (73%) from four factories in Thailand. All participants answered a questionnaire and performed spirometry. Measurements of concentrations of dust were used to give additional information on exposures.

Mean respirable dust concentrations in the factory were 0.02–2.18 mg·m−3. The risk of breathlessness and nasal symptoms were significantly increased in production and packing staff. The risk of skin symptoms was significantly increased in those adding vitamin mixture to milk powder. Factory workers showed significantly lower forced expiratory volume in one second measured as percentage of predicted value.

The present study provides new evidence that workers exposed to milk powder by inhalation are at an increased risk of nasal symptoms, wheezing and breathlessness, and exhibit reduced spirometric lung function, even at relatively low air concentrations of milk dust.
Sequence diversity and natural selection at domain I of the apical membrane antigen 1 among Indian Plasmodium falciparum populations
Authors: Garg Sheena , Alam Mohammad T , Das Manoj K , Dev Vas , Kumar Ashwani , Dash Aditya P , Sharma Yagya D
Published: November 2007

Background

The Plasmodium falciparum apical membrane antigen 1 (AMA1) is a leading malaria vaccine candidate antigen. The complete AMA1 protein is comprised of three domains where domain I exhibits high sequence polymorphism and is thus named as the hyper-variable region (HVR). The present study describes the extent of genetic polymorphism and natural selection at domain I of the ama1 gene among Indian P. falciparum isolates.

Methods

The part of the ama 1 gene covering domain I was PCR amplified and sequenced from 157 P. falciparum isolates collected from five different geographical regions of India. Statistical and phylogenetic analyses of the sequences were done using DnaSP ver. 4. 10. 9 and MEGA version 3.0 packages.

Results

A total of 57 AMA1 haplotypes were observed among 157 isolates sequenced. Forty-six of these 57 haplotypes are being reported here for the first time. The parasites collected from the high malaria transmission areas (Assam, Orissa, and Andaman and Nicobar Islands) showed more haplotypes (H) and nucleotide diversity π as compared to low malaria transmission areas (Uttar Pradesh and Goa). The comparison of all five Indian P. falciparum subpopulations indicated moderate level of genetic differentiation and limited gene flow (Fixation index ranging from 0.048 to 0.13) between populations. The difference between rates of non-synonymous and synonymous mutations, Tajima's D and McDonald-Kreitman test statistics suggested that the diversity at domain I of the AMA1 antigen is due to positive natural selection. The minimum recombination events were also high indicating the possible role of recombination in generating AMA1 allelic diversity.

Conclusion

The level of genetic diversity and diversifying selection were higher in Assam, Orissa, and Andaman and Nicobar Islands populations as compared to Uttar Pradesh and Goa. The amounts of gene flow among these populations were moderate. The data reported here will be valuable for the development of AMA1-based malaria vaccine.
CoryneCenter – An online resource for the integrated analysis of corynebacterial genome and transcriptome data
Authors: Neuweger Heiko , Baumbach Jan , Albaum Stefan , Bekel Thomas , Dondrup Michael , Hüser Andrea T , Kalinowski Jörn , Oehm Sebastian , Pühler Alfred , Rahmann Sven , Weile Jochen , Goesmann Alexander
Published: November 2007

Background

The introduction of high-throughput genome sequencing and post-genome analysis technologies, e.g. DNA microarray approaches, has created the potential to unravel and scrutinize complex gene-regulatory networks on a large scale. The discovery of transcriptional regulatory interactions has become a major topic in modern functional genomics.

Results

To facilitate the analysis of gene-regulatory networks, we have developed CoryneCenter, a web-based resource for the systematic integration and analysis of genome, transcriptome, and gene regulatory information for prokaryotes, especially corynebacteria. For this purpose, we extended and combined the following systems into a common platform: (1) GenDB, an open source genome annotation system, (2) EMMA, a MAGE compliant application for high-throughput transcriptome data storage and analysis, and (3) CoryneRegNet, an ontology-based data warehouse designed to facilitate the reconstruction and analysis of gene regulatory interactions. We demonstrate the potential of CoryneCenter by means of an application example. Using microarray hybridization data, we compare the gene expression of Corynebacterium glutamicum under acetate and glucose feeding conditions: Known regulatory networks are confirmed, but moreover CoryneCenter points out additional regulatory interactions.

Conclusion

CoryneCenter provides more than the sum of its parts. Its novel analysis and visualization features significantly simplify the process of obtaining new biological insights into complex regulatory systems. Although the platform currently focusses on corynebacteria, the integrated tools are by no means restricted to these species, and the presented approach offers a general strategy for the analysis and verification of gene regulatory networks. CoryneCenter provides freely accessible projects with the underlying genome annotation, gene expression, and gene regulation data. The system is publicly available at http://www.CoryneCenter.de.
Spontaneous corneal melting in pregnancy: a case report
Authors: Arya Sudesh K , Malik Archana , Gupta Sonika , Gupta Hemlata , Sood Sunandan
Published: November 2007

Background

To report a case of spontaneous corneal melting in pregnancy. We reviewed the literature on corneal melting and the effect of pregnancy on cornea and collagen containing tissues.

Case presentation

A 29-year-old woman who underwent radial keratotomy in both eyes followed by trabeculectomy in her left eye developed corneal melting in the same eye, in her seventh month of pregnancy. Despite screening, no infectious or immune mediated condition could be identified. She was managed conservatively with cyanoacrylate glue, bandage contact lens, lubricants and antibiotics.

Conclusion

It may not always be possible to find the underlying cause of corneal melting but the more common underlying causes should be ruled out by proper investigations. Pregnancy with its host of hormonal changes could potentially have some effect on corneal collagen leading to corneal melting in compromised corneas.
Prediction of volume response under open-chest conditions during coronary artery bypass surgery
Authors: Sander Michael , Spies Claudia D , Berger Katharina , Grubitzsch Herko , Foer Achim , Krämer Michael , Carl Matthias , von Heymann Christian
Published: November 2007

Introduction

Adequate fluid loading is the first step of hemodynamic optimization in cardiac patients undergoing surgery. Neither a clinical approach alone nor conventional parameters like central venous pressure (CVP) and pulmonary capillary wedge pressure (PCWP) are thought to be sufficient for recognizing fluid deficiency or overload. The aim of this study was to evaluate the suitability of CVP, PCWP, global end-diastolic volume index (GEDVI), pulse pressure variation (PPV), and stroke volume variation (SVV) for predicting changes in the cardiac index (CI) and stroke volume index (SVI) after sternotomy.

Methods

In 40 patients, CVP, PCWP, GEDVI, PPV, SVV, and the CI were measured at two points of time. One measurement was performed after inducing anesthesia and one after sternotomy.

Results

A significant increase in heart rate, CI, and GEDVI was observed during the study period. CVP, SVV, and PPV decreased significantly. There were no significant correlations between CVP and PCWP and changes in CI. In contrast, GEDVI, SVV, and PPV significantly correlated with CI changes. Only relative changes of GEDVI, SVV, and PPV predicted changes in SVI.

Conclusion

During cardiac surgery and especially after sternotomy, CVP and PCWP are not suitable for monitoring fluid status. Direct volume measurement like GEDVI and dynamic volume responsive measurements like SVV and PPV may be more suitable for monitoring the volume status of patients, particularly under open-chest conditions.
Extracting Falsifiable Predictions from Sloppy Models
Authors: GUTENKUNST RYAN N. , CASEY FERGAL P. , WATERFALL JOSHUA J. , MYERS CHRISTOPHER R. , SETHNA JAMES P.
Published: November 2007

Abstract: Successful predictions are among the most compelling validations of any model. Extracting falsifiable predictions from nonlinear multiparameter models is complicated by the fact that such models are commonlysloppy, possessing sensitivities to different parameter combinations that range over many decades. Here we discuss how sloppiness affects the sorts of data that best constrain model predictions, makes linear uncertainty approximations dangerous, and introduces computational difficulties in Monte‐Carlo uncertainty analysis. We also present a useful test problem and suggest refinements to the standards by which models are communicated.
Comparison of Reverse‐Engineering Methods Using an in Silico Network
Authors: CAMACHO DIOGO , VERA LICONA PAOLA , MENDES PEDRO , LAUBENBACHER REINHARD
Published: November 2007

Abstract:  The reverse engineering of biochemical networks is a central problem in systems biology. In recent years several methods have been developed for this purpose, using techniques from a variety of fields. A systematic comparison of the different methods is complicated by their widely varying data requirements, making benchmarking difficult. Also, because of the lack of detailed knowledge about most real networks, it is not easy to use experimental data for this purpose. This paper contains a comparison of four reverse‐engineering methods using data from a simulated network. The network is sufficiently realistic and complex to include many of the challenges that data from real networks pose. Our results indicate that the two methods based on genetic perturbations of the network outperform the other methods, including dynamic Bayesian networks and a partial correlation method.
Reconstruction of Metabolic Networks from High‐Throughput Metabolite Profiling Data
Authors: NEMENMAN ILYA , ESCOLA G. SEAN , HLAVACEK WILLIAM S. , UNKEFER PAT J. , UNKEFER CLIFFORD J. , WALL MICHAEL E.
Published: November 2007

Abstract:  We investigate the ability of algorithms developed for reverse engineering of transcriptional regulatory networks to reconstruct metabolic networks from high‐throughput metabolite profiling data. For benchmarking purposes, we generate synthetic metabolic profiles based on a well‐established model for red blood cell metabolism. A variety of data sets are generated, accounting for different properties of real metabolic networks, such as experimental noise, metabolite correlations, and temporal dynamics. These data sets are made available online. We use ARACNE, a mainstream algorithm for reverse engineering of transcriptional regulatory networks from gene expression data, to predict metabolic interactions from these data sets. We find that the performance of ARACNE on metabolic data is comparable to that on gene expression data.
Theory and Limitations of Genetic Network Inference from Microarray Data
Authors: MARGOLIN ADAM A. , CALIFANO ANDREA
Published: November 2007

Abstract:  Since the advent of gene expression microarray technology more than 10 years ago, many computational approaches have been developed aimed at using statistical associations between mRNA abundance profiles to predict transcriptional regulatory interactions. The ultimate goal is to develop causal network models describing the transcriptional influences that genes exert on each other (via their protein products), which can be used to predict network disruptions (e.g., mutations) leading to a disease phenotype, as well as the appropriate therapeutic intervention. However, microarray data measure only a small component of the interacting variables in a genetic regulatory network, as cells are known to regulate gene expression via many diverse mechanisms. Although many researchers have acknowledged the questionable interpretation of statistical dependencies between mRNA profiles, very little work has been done on theoretically characterizing the nature of inferred dependencies using models that account for unobserved interacting variables. In this work, we review the theory behind reverse engineering algorithms derived from three separate disciplines—system control theory, graphical models, and information theory—and highlight several mathematical relationships between the various methods. We then apply recent theoretical work on constructing graphical models with latent variables to the context of reverse engineering genetic networks. We demonstrate that even the addition of simple latent variables induces statistical dependencies between non–directly interacting (e.g., co‐regulated) genes that cannot be eliminated by conditioning on any observed variables.
Learning Regulatory Programs That Accurately Predict Differential Expression with MEDUSA
Authors: KUNDAJE ANSHUL , LIANOGLOU STEVE , LI XUEJING , QUIGLEY DAVID , ARIAS MARTA , WIGGINS CHRIS H. , ZHANG LI , LESLIE CHRISTINA
Published: November 2007

Abstract: Inferring gene regulatory networks from high‐throughput genomic data is one of the central problems in computational biology. In this paper, we describe a predictive modeling approach for studying regulatory networks, based on a machine learning algorithm called MEDUSA. MEDUSA integrates promoter sequence, mRNA expression, and transcription factor occupancy data to learn gene regulatory programs that predict the differential expression of target genes. Instead of using clustering or correlation of expression profiles to infer regulatory relationships, MEDUSA determines condition‐specific regulators and discovers regulatory motifs that mediate the regulation of target genes. In this way, MEDUSA meaningfully models biological mechanisms of transcriptional regulation. MEDUSA solves the problem of predicting the differential (up/down) expression of target genes by using boosting, a technique from statistical learning, which helps to avoid overfitting as the algorithm searches through the high‐dimensional space of potential regulators and sequence motifs. Experimental results demonstrate that MEDUSA achieves high prediction accuracy on held‐out experiments (test data), that is, data not seen in training. We also present context‐specific analysis of MEDUSA regulatory programs for DNA damage and hypoxia, demonstrating that MEDUSA identifies key regulators and motifs in these processes. A central challenge in the field is the difficulty of validating reverse‐engineered networks in the absence of a gold standard. Our approach of learning regulatory programs provides at least a partial solution for the problem: MEDUSA's prediction accuracy on held‐out data gives a concrete and statistically sound way to validate how well the algorithm performs. With MEDUSA, statistical validation becomes a prerequisite for hypothesis generation and network building rather than a secondary consideration.
Measuring job satisfaction of UK pharmacists: a pilot study
Authors: Hassell Karen , Seston Elizabeth , Shann Phil
Published: November 2007

Objective

To review the UK published literature on pharmacy job satisfaction, in order to describe and assess the strengths of their methods and the findings and to validate an existing instrument to measure work satisfaction, with a sample of locum pharmacists.

Method

A literature review of relevant databases was used to identify UK studies exploring any aspect of job, role, career or work satisfaction. A search of the grey literature was also undertaken. A satisfaction scale, the Warr-Cook-Wall scale, previously used with general practitioners (GPs), was adapted and administered to a sample of locum pharmacists (n = 175, response rate = 75%). Validity and reliability analyses were undertaken in SPSS v13.

Key findings

Three articles, two reports, one thesis abstract and one conference abstract were identified through the search. The findings of the review indicate that the way in which pharmacist satisfaction has been measured to date renders it difficult to determine historical trends or make cross-sectoral comparisons. A Cronbach alpha coefficient of 0.90 was obtained for the job satisfaction scale, indicating that the job satisfaction scale is a satisfactory and reliable tool for use with this group of pharmacists. In terms of substantive findings, these suggest that locum pharmacists in general derive high levels of job satisfaction and higher levels than those reported by GPs.

Conclusion

Limited evidence is available regarding pharmacists' job satisfaction in the UK. The review highlights the need for a universal, multifaceted measure of satisfaction. The findings of this study suggest that the Warr-Cook-Wall satisfaction scale has very high reliability and is suitable for use with pharmacists without any further amendments. Although the study suggests relatively high satisfaction scores in this group of pharmacists, it would be instructive to determine the applicability of the job satisfaction measure and to explore the satisfaction levels of pharmacists in a wide range of roles and sectors, to determine relative levels of satisfaction.
Assessing patient adherence to anti-hypertensive drug therapy: can a structured pharmacist-conducted interview separate the wheat from the chaff?
Authors: Yusuff Kazeem B , Alabi Abdrahman
Published: November 2007

Objective

To identify determinants of adherence and assess the impact of structured pharmacist-conducted interviews in determining patients' adherence to prescribed anti-hypertensive medications in a secondary care setting in Nigeria.

Method

The study was conducted in a secondary care facility located in Ibadan, Southwestern Nigeria. Two methodological approaches were employed. The first phase was pharmacist-conducted, pre-physician consultation, cross-sectional interviews of 400 hypertensive patients who presented at the study site within the 2-month study period. The second phase was a follow-up review of case notes of these patients after they had left the physician's office.

Key findings

The outcome of the pharmacist-conducted pre-physician consultation interview shows that financial difficulty was the most frequently identified factor responsible for patients' non-adherence to anti-hypertensive drug therapy (64%). A drug holiday, varying from 5–14 days per month, was the coping strategy adopted by patients to circumvent this difficulty. Only 48% (192) of patients were aware of the negative consequences of non-adherence with anti-hypertensive drug therapy, and of these, 75% were adherent. The level of awareness was significantly higher in adherent patients (P < 0.001). Sixty-seven per cent (268) of patients use a daily medication reminder (DMR) to assist them in taking their anti-hypertensive drugs, and of these 65.7% were adherent. The use of DMRs was significantly higher among adherent patients (P < 0.01). A meal time was the most frequently used DMR (88%). Forty-one per cent (164) of patients had additional measurement of their blood pressure at pharmacies (65.9%) and neighbourhood private hospital (34.1%), and of these 75.6% were judged to be adherent with their prescribed drug therapy. Additional measurement of blood pressure was significantly higher in adherent patients (P < 0.001). Fifty-one per cent of the cohort were judged by pharmacists as non-adherent during pre-consultation interviews (phase 1), while physicians judged 25% of the same cohort as non-adherent during consultation (phase 2). The structured pharmacist-conducted pre-physician consultation interviews were significantly better at identifying patients who were non-adherent with prescribed anti-hypertensive drugs (P < 0.01).

Conclusion

A brief structured pharmacist-conducted interview can be a valuable tool in assessing and/or identifying determinants of adherence with anti-hypertensive drug therapy.
Influence of a new reference-based pricing system in South Africa on the prevalence and cost of antidiabetic medicine: a pilot study
Authors: Steyn Rianda , Burger Johanita Riétte , Serfontein Jan Hendrik Philippus , Lubbe Martha Susanna
Published: November 2007

Objective

To determine the influence of the implementation of the new reference-based pricing system (single exit price or SEP) in South Africa on the prescribing prevalence and cost of antidiabetic medicine.

Setting

Private healthcare sector of South Africa (national medicine claims processing company).

Method

A retrospective drug utilisation study and basic cost analysis were conducted on antidiabetic medicine usage data. Data were extracted from a national medicine claims processing company's database for the period January 1, to December 31, 2004, and analysed according to three study periods: January 1 to April 31, 2004 (pre-SEP period), May 1 to August 31, 2004 (interim period) and September 1 to December 31, 2004 (post-SEP period).

Key findings

The study population consisted of the total number of prescriptions claimed (n = 2 595 254) during the 1-year period. The total number of medicine items prescribed were 5 305 882, at a total cost of R661 223 146.00 ($102 375 382.80). Antidiabetics represented 2.7% (n = 143 447) of these, at a cost of R29 734 655.19 ($4 603 735.86) (4.5%). The average cost of insulin on the database for the year 2004 decreased by approximately R188.26 ($29.15) from the pre-SEP period to the post-SEP period, and that of oral antidiabetic products by approximately R47 ($7.28). The average cost of antidiabetic medicine products in general showed a decrease from the pre-SEP period to the post-SEP period — with a reduction in average cost of approximately R73 ($11.30) or 29.6%. Conclusion The reduction in average cost of antidiabetic medicine products observed in this study could possibly be attributed to the implementation of new pricing regulations in South Africa in 2004. It is recommended that further investigations on the impact of the implementation of the new reference-based pricing structure in South Africa be done.