bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
'Seeing' a Body Into Being: Reflections On Scholarly Interpretations of the Nature and Reality of Jesus' Resurrected Body
Authors: Craffert Pieter F.
Published: November 2007

This study is concerned with the rhetoric of inquiry into the nature and reality of Jesus' resurrected body. The current rationalistic debate is analysed in terms of three components: views on the nature of Jesus' resurrected body, what is meant by 'seeing' and the understanding of reality involved in different proposals. These are contrasted with a cultural sensitive reading which allows the existence of multiple realities, the existence of visionary bodies and visions as a way of seeing. It is argued that what is today taken to be the meaning of the biblical descriptions of the resurrected body (like Paul's 'soma pneumatikon') is the result of 'seeing a body into being'. It is researchers' view on seeing together with their respective world-views which determine what the nature of Jesus' resurrected body is and not so much what the sources say or do not say.
The Light of Origins. Beta Israel and the Return To Yerusalem
Authors: Zegeye Abebe
Published: November 2007

This article looks at the issue of the origin of the Ethiopian Jews and how they have survived the odyssey of their return to Yerusalem. The questions of how and when ancient Judaic influences entered Ethiopia remain the subject of controversy. Their impact on the last surviving Ethiopian Jews, the Beta Israel, and the Ethiopian Jews' right of return to modern Israel are of undoubted importance today. This raises the issue of whether the religious ideal and the automatic right of all jews to emigrate to Israel are equally applied. Furthermore, the concrete experiences of the Ethiopian Jews in Israel compel one to ask new questions about the possibility of the Beta Israel beginning to rethink their relationship with Ethiopian society.
The object of knowledge: The role of objects in biomedical innovation
Authors: Swan Jacky , Bresnen Mike , Newell Sue , Robertson Maxine
Published: November 2007

Understanding innovation in the biomedical field requires an appreciation of its highly interactive nature and of the many professional and organizational boundaries that create barriers to interaction and the sharing of knowledge. Yet, research to date has directed much less attention to understanding the intricacies of interactive biomedical innovation in practice, than it has to exploring the factors influencing innovation at an institutional level. Drawing upon empirical research and taking an approach informed by symbolic interactionism and a practice-based perspective on knowledge and learning, this article offers insights into the processes involved in supporting knowledge sharing by focusing on `objects' and the varying roles they play (instrumental and symbolic) in enabling (or potentially disabling) interaction amongst groups and organizations involved in biomedical innovation projects.
Experimental Characterization of the Bearing Strength of Fiber Metal Laminates
Authors: Krimbalis P.P. , Poon C. , Fawaz Z. , Behdinan K.
Published: November 2007

A novel experimental methodology extended from ASTM D953 was developed and implemented to conduct pin bearing experiments on GLARE3-5/4-0.3 and GLARE3-4/3-0.3 variants with the aim to examine a bearing load configuration from a local perspective as well as a global one. This was accomplished by introducing previously unconsidered testing fixtures and additional instrumentation, including bonded strain gages, as a means of measuring the local strain field generated by a bearing load. Load—displacement curves were produced as per the standard but were subject to numerous plateaus and significant statistical scatter, attributed to pin seating and global displacement measurement. Conventionally defined bearing yield strengths were calculated but lacked physical meaning, prompting the production of novel bearing strength vs. measured strain profiles. These new profiles, derived from the additionally acquired data, were void of the plateau anomalies and depicted a well defined trend, indicative of a more complete characterization of material response. Examination of these profiles resulted in a new, more intuitive definition of bearing yield strength that incorporated influence from the entire curve rather than idealizing it bilinearly. The phenomenological basis of the new definition suggests an analogous extension to additional methodologies such as standard tensile or compressive tests.
Print-through Phenomenon on the Surface of GFRP: Pilot Study
Authors: Lin Huei-Jeng , Liao Chin-I , Jiang Ren-Li , Kuo Yan-Min
Published: November 2007

Unsaturated polyester filled with coloring agent is commonly used as the surface material of a GFRP yacht and is called a gel-coating layer. The reflection on the gel-coating layer surface will be imperfect if twists and wrinkles exist on the gel-coating surface. This phenomenon is called print-through phenomenon (PTP) in this investigation. The PTP seriously reduces the beauty of a yacht and therefore limits the application of GFRP to the yacht. Therefore, it is urgent to solve the PTP problem. The first goal of this study is to objectively define and quantitatively measure the existence of PTP and its level. The surface of the gel-coating layer of GFRP is scanned by using the portable high resolution surface roughness and form measurement instrument. Based on a large number of experiments, the average parameter, arithmetic mean deviation (Ra), and the peak parameter, the altitude of the surface profile (Rt), are proposed to determine the existence of PTP and its level. The second goal of this study is to consider the causes of PTP happening and find out the factors that can influence it. Through experimental observations and qualitative analysis, it is believed that PTP is related to the non-uniform residual stress in the gel-coating layer of GFRP. So, any factors which can produce the non-uniform residual stress in the gel-coating layer can influence PTP, such as the shrinkage of the resin during its hardening chemical reaction and the atmospheric pressure during the Seemann composite resin infusion molding process (SCRIMP). After ascertaining what causes PTP, research methods that can be used to reduce PTP will then be studied.
Meeting Students' Needs in Two EAP Programmes in Vietnam and New Zealand
Authors: Hoang Oanh Duong Thi
Published: November 2007

■ Needs analysis is an issue of major concern for courses of English, both for English as a Second Language (ESL) and as a foreign language (EFL). In my study, I examined two EAP programmes at two universities—in New Zealand and Vietnam—to see if needs analysis receives any attention in these two programmes, and, if so, how needs analysis is carried out and if the process works effectively. Based on the findings, both sides can learn lessons and implications can be suggested for similar programmes. I used data collected from class observations—with some sessions being videoed—and interviews in both cases, with a qualitative ethnographic approach. The findings show that, though in both of the programmes, student needs analysis was considered, the level of focus and practice was different. In the New Zealand case, needs analysis was a highlight of the programme through a series of systematic data collection tools. In contrast, in the Vietnamese case, students' needs were assumed by the course designers, suggested in informal exchanges with students, or based on teachers' personal observation and experience. The New Zealand needs analysis system could well be a model for the Vietnamese classes, where formal needs analysis has not been a common practice.
An Investigation of Tourists' Patterns of Obligation to Protect the Environment
Authors: Dolnicar Sara , Leisch Friedrich
Published: November 2007

The environmental sustainability of the local tourism industry is increasingly a concern. Authors have proposed a demand-driven approach to sustainable destination management as complementary to traditional supply-side interventions. However, little empirical evidence supports the feasibility of such a demand-driven approach. This study contributes to this gap by investigating whether individuals who feel morally obliged to behave in an environmentally friendly manner represent useful target segments for destination management aiming to improve the ecological sustainability of the local tourism industry. Results indicate that distinctly different moral obligation segments exist that differ in pro-environmental behavior and attitudes. These segments are associated with distinctly different vacation preferences and can consequently be used by destination management for target marketing. Gaps between people's pro-environmental behavior at home and at the destination systematically differ across segments, leading to the conclusion that different combinations of demand and supply-side measures may be suitable to reduce the environmental footprint of different segments.
Management Theory and Occam's Razor
Authors: Meier Kenneth J. , O'Toole Laurence J.
Published: November 2007

Because organizations are open systems, environmental forces can both benefit the organization and cause it harm. The empirical theory of O'Toole and Meier suggests buffering is related to organizational performance in nonlinear ways by interacting with environmental forces, managerial networking, and organizational structures. This article examines the organization's history to generate an estimate of environmental buffering and then incorporates this measure to study buffering in a more contemporary data set. The authors find buffering is related to a variety of performance indicators and has an especially strong influence on performance in regard to a more disadvantaged clientele. The article then assesses the functional form of the buffering relationship and the potential interaction with other variables. Although the logic of Occam's razor implies that the simple linear relationship best fits the data, significant research needs to be done on other measures of buffering and other data sets before definitive conclusions can be drawn.
A Review of Approaches to Empirical Research on the Resource-Based View of the Firm†
Authors: Armstrong Craig E. , Shimizu Katsuhiko
Published: November 2007

This study reviews empirical studies of the resource-based view (RBV) and examines methodological issues and new directions that will help to clarify the value and boundaries of the RBV. Through our comprehensive review of the research design and operationalization of resource-based constructs used in 125 empirical studies, we (1) discuss key empirical issues particularly important to RBV research, (2) illustrate how researchers have or have not overcome some of these challenges, and (3) highlight two important approaches that offer promise for sharpening the boundary conditions of the RBV: an integrative framework for RBV research and utilization of nonsignificant results.
Executive Compensation: A Multidisciplinary Review of Recent Developments
Authors: Devers Cynthia E. , Cannella Albert A. , Reilly Gregory P. , Yoder Michele E.
Published: November 2007

The failure to document a consistent and robust relationship between executive pay and firm performance has frustrated scholars and practitioners for over three quarters of a century. Although recent compensation research has revealed alternative theoretical frameworks and findings that hold the potential to significantly improve our understanding of executive compensation, to date this diverse literature lacks theoretical integration. Accordingly, we develop a framework to organize and review these recent findings. We further identify methodological issues and concerns, discuss the implications of these concerns, and provide recommendations for future research aimed at developing a more integrated research agenda.
Screening for depression after stroke: an exploration of professionals' compliancewith guidelines
Authors: Hart Sharon , Morris Reg
Published: November 2007

Objective: National guidelines recommend screening for poststroke depression, but compliance is low. This research studied staff compliance in stroke units using the theory of planned behaviour to investigate influences upon screening.

Design: The study used a questionnaire based on a semi-structured interview and measuring the theory of planned behaviour components.

Setting: Sixteen stroke units throughout the UK were included.

Subjects: Seventy-five health care professionals in stroke services participated.

Main measures: A postal questionnaire with 7-point rating scales and open-ended questions was used.

Results: Response rates were low, but the 75 returns demonstrated poor compliance for screening, despite positive attitudes towards it. Five variables, including three of the theory of planned behaviour components, predicted intention to screen: perceived control over screening, perceived expectations of others (direct and indirect normative beliefs), awareness of guidelines and screening being part of routine assessment. Perceived expectations of others, perceived control and awareness of guidelines also differentiated those intending to screen from `non-intenders'. Being knowledgeable about screening, having screening in the job role and belief in its clinical value were additional facilitating factors, while time pressure and concerns about screening tests were barriers. Profession and psychology input were not associated with screening.

Conclusions: The theory of planned behaviour provides a framework for understanding screening intentions. Both individual and organizational factors were associated with screening. Compliance may be enhanced by: training to increase knowledge and skills, providing evidence of the utility, increasing awareness of guidelines, support from colleagues and integrating mood assessment into job roles and routine assessment.
The impact of introducing an ICF-based rehabilitation tool on staff satisfaction with multidisciplinary team care in rheumatology: an exploratory study
Authors: Verhoef J. , Toussaint P.J. , Putter H. , Zwetsloot-Schonk J.H.M. , Vliet Vlieland T.P.M.
Published: November 2007

Objective: To investigate the impact of introducing a rehabilitation tool on multidisciplinary team members' satisfaction with team functioning, team conferences and written information exchange.

Design: Pretest posttest design.

Setting: Day patient and inpatient wards of a rheumatology rehabilitation clinic.

Subjects: Members of two multidisciplinary teams.

Interventions: The introduction of an electronic version of the Rehabilitation Activities Profile.

Main measures: The Group Environment Scale and questionnaires on satisfaction with team conferences and administrative procedures administered before (T1) and 12 months after (T2) the introduction of the Rehabilitation Activities Profile.

Results: The Group Environment Scale cohesion subscale was significantly higher at T2 than at T1 in the day patient setting (mean difference 1.9; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.3; 3.4), whereas in the inpatient setting the Group Environment Scale cohesion and the order and organization subscales were significantly lower (mean differences -3.0; 95% CI -4.7; -1.3 and -2.7; 95% CI -4.3; -1.1, respectively). Satisfaction with team conferences was significantly higher at T2 compared with T1 in the day patient setting (mean difference total score 0.6; 95% CI 0.3; 1.0), but not in the inpatient setting (mean difference -0.3; 95% CI -0.7; 0.2). In both settings, the proportions of health professionals spending >10 minutes on administrative tasks per patient contact were significantly higher at T2 than at T1.

Conclusions: In the day patient setting, the introduction of a rehabilitation tool had a positive effect on team members' satisfaction with team functioning and team conferences, whereas in the inpatient setting the effect was absent or the opposite. In both settings, the time spent on administrative tasks increased.
Clinical Utility of B-Type Natriuretic Peptide in Early Severe Sepsis and Septic Shock
Authors: Rivers Emanuel P. , McCord James , Otero Ronny , Jacobsen Gordon , Loomba Manisha
Published: November 2007

B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) has diagnostic, therapeutic, and prognostic utility in critically ill patients. For severe sepsis and septic shock patients in particular, similar clinical utility from the most proximal aspects of hospital presentation to the intensive care unit has not been examined. BNP levels were measured at 0, 3, 6, 12, 24, 36, 48, 60, and 72 hours in 252 patients presenting to the emergency department with severe sepsis and septic shock. The clinicians were blinded to the BNP levels. Elevated BNP levels (>100 pg/mL) were seen in 42% and 69% of patients on presentation and at 24 hours, respectively. Elevated BNP ranges (>230 pg/mL) were significantly associated with myocardial dysfunction and severity of global tissue hypoxia. When adjusted for age, gender, history of heart failure, renal function, organ dysfunction, and mean arterial pressure, a BNP greater than 210 pg/mL at 24 hours was the most significant independent indicator of increased mortality: odds ratio 1.061 (1.026-1.097), P < .001, 95% confidence interval. Patients with severe sepsis and septic shock often have elevated BNP levels, which are significantly associated with organ and myocardial dysfunction, global tissue hypoxia, and mortality. Serial BNP levels may be a useful adjunct in the early detection, stratification, treatment, and prognostication of high-risk patients.
Adrenal Insufficiency in Critical Illness
Authors: Cooper Mark Stuart , Stewart Paul Michael
Published: November 2007

One of the more controversial areas in critical care in recent decades relates to the issue of adrenal insufficiency and its treatment in critically ill patients. There is no consensus on which patients to test for adrenal insufficiency, which tests to use and how to interpret them, whether to use corticosteroids, and, if so, who to treat and with what dose. This review illustrates the complexity and diversity of pathophysiological changes in glucocorticoid secretion, metabolism, and action and how these are affected by various types of illness. It will review adrenal function testing and give guidance on corticosteroid replacement regimens based on current published literature. There remain inherent difficulties in interpreting the effects of glucocorticoid replacement during critical illness because of the diversity of effects of glucocorticoids on various tissues. Investigation and treatment will depend on whether the likely cause of corticosteroid insufficiency is adrenal or central in origin.
Focus Groups of Alaska Native Adolescent Tobacco Users: Preferences for Tobacco Cessation Interventions and Barriers to Participation
Authors: Patten Christi A. , Enoch Carrie , Renner Caroline C. , Offord Kenneth P. , Nevak Caroline , Kelley Stacy F. , Thomas Janet , Decker Paul A. , Hurt Richard D. , Lanier Anne , Kaur Judith S.
Published: November 2007

Tobacco cessation interventions developed for Alaska Native adolescents do not exist. This study employed focus group methodology to explore preferences for tobacco cessation interventions and barriers to participation among 49 Alaska Natives (61% female) with a mean age of 14.6 ( SD = 1.6) who resided in western Alaska. Using content analysis, themes from the 12 focus groups were found to be consistent across village, gender, and age groups. Program location or site (e.g., away from the village, hunting, fishing), a group-based format, and inclusion of medication and personal stories were reported to be important attributes of cessation programs. Motivators to quit tobacco were the perceived adverse health effects of tobacco, improved self-image and appearance, and the potential to be a future role model as a non—tobacco user for family and friends. Parents were perceived as potentially supportive to the adolescent in quitting tobacco. The findings will be used to develop tobacco cessation programs for Alaska Native youth.
Risk assessment in the patient with established peripheral arterial disease
Authors: Haugen Scott , Casserly Ivan P. , Regensteiner Judith G. , Hiatt William R.
Published: November 2007

Office-based cardiovascular risk prediction continues to challenge practitioners in primary and secondary risk stratification settings. In patients with established peripheral arterial disease (PAD), the risk of cardiovascular events (i.e. death or morbidity due to coronary heart disease and/or cerebrovascular disease) is high, yet traditional risk factors and the ankle—brachial index (ABI) do not provide a complete secondary risk prediction. In this population, office-based cardiovascular risk stratification may be improved by surrogate markers of the systemic atherosclerotic burden, as well as markers of systemic inflammation. This review will evaluate the utility of the ABI, clinical stage of disease, and the emerging role of C-reactive protein (CRP) and other inflammatory markers in secondary risk prediction in PAD. Defining which patients are in the highest category of risk may direct health care providers to emphasize secondary preventive measures, and facilitate patient adherence to recommended medical therapies and smoking cessation.
Persistent left superior vena cava (PLSVC) with anomalous left hepatic vein drainage into the right atrium: role of imaging and clinical relevance
Authors: Bhatti Sabha , Hakeem Abdul , Ahmad Usman , Malik Maher , Kosolcharoen Peter , Su Min Chang
Published: November 2007

Persistent left superior vena cava (PLSVC) is a very rare and yet the most commonly described thoracic venous anomaly in medical literature. It has a 10-fold higher incidence with congenital heart disease. PLSVC often becomes apparent when an unknown PLSVC is incidentally discovered during central venous line placement, intracardiac electrode/pacemaker placement or cardiopulmonary bypass, where it may cause technical difficulties and life-threatening complications. PLSVC is also associated with disturbances of cardiac impulse formation and conduction including varying degrees of heart blocks, supraventricular arrhythmias and Wolff Parkinson White syndrome. We describe the case of an 86-year-old male with a history of coronary artery disease and chronic atrial fibrillation who presented with worsening dyspnea and syncopal episodes. An ECG was consistent with complete heart block. During lead placement for the pacemaker, a left subclavian approach was unsuccessful. A left venogram was performed through the brachial vein that demonstrated a left superior vena cava. The diagnosis was confirmed with echocardiography using a bubble study and also a chest CT. The anatomy was unique as there was anomalous left hepatic vein drainage into the right atrium. The case provides insight into the diagnostic modalities and clinical considerations of this unusual thoracic venous anomaly.
Race and the Psychological Health of African Americans
Authors: Ashburn-Nardo Leslie , Monteith Margo J. , Arthur Steven A. , Bain Amber
Published: November 2007

This study examined an array of race-related factors pertaining to psychological well-being and distress among 300 African American participants. Findings obtained via structural equation modeling pointed to the importance of having positive implicit ingroup attitudes for psychological health and underscored the significance of Black cultural immersion, particularly in shaping implicit attitudes. Support was obtained for three models: ingroup identity as an antecedent to perceived prejudice, which, in turn, was negatively associated with psychological health; ingroup identity as a consequence of perceived prejudice with positive implications for psychological health; and ingroup identity as a moderator of perceived prejudice, with stronger identity providing a buffer from prejudice. Findings illustrate the consequential and complex role of racial variables in African Americans' psychological health.
History as an Obstacle: Impact of Temporal-Based Social Categorizations on Polish-Jewish Intergroup Contact
Authors: Bilewicz Michal
Published: November 2007

Two studies examined the role of temporal-based social categorizations for attitude change during intergroup contact between Polish and Jewish students. In Study 1 ( N = 190 Polish students), a cross-sectional analysis showed that contact focused on contemporary issues had positive effects on both outgroup attitudes and perceived similarity to the outgroup. No such effects were observed when groups talked about past issues. Study 2 ( N = 97 Jewish students) demonstrated this effect experimentally when `historical' and `contemporary' issues were discussed during contact. Contact about the present generated more positive attitudes toward contact partners and (unlike contact about the past) toward the generalized outgroup. The present findings are discussed in the context of common ingroup identity model and collective guilt research.
Perceived Legitimacy of Collective Punishment as a Function of Democratic versus Non-Democratic Group Structure
Authors: Falomir-Pichastor Juan M. , Staerklé Christian , Depuiset Marie-Aude , Butera Fabrizio
Published: November 2007

The present research tested the hypothesis that the political structure of groups moderates the perceived legitimacy of collective punishment. Participants read scenarios of fictitious summer camps in which unidentified members of one group aggressed members of another group. The political structure of both the offender and the victim groups was described as either egalitarian or hierarchical (defined with democratic or non-democratic decision-making procedures). Perceived legitimacy of collective punishment directed against all members of the offender group was assessed by measuring the acceptability of sanctions administered by an authority and of revenge actions inflicted by members of the victim group. Results showed that collective punishment was evaluated as less legitimate when the offender group was egalitarian and the victim group was hierarchical. Supplementary analyses showed that this effect was mediated by the higher value attributed to members of the offender egalitarian group when the victim group was hierarchical.
Leadership Efficacy and Women Leaders' Responses to Stereotype Activation
Authors: Hoyt Crystal L. , Blascovich Jim
Published: November 2007

The role of leadership efficacy in women's reactance responses to stereotype-based leadership role expectations was examined in two laboratory studies. Participants, selected on the basis of leadership efficacy scores, served as leaders of ostensible three-person groups. Half were primed with the gender leadership stereotype. An immersive virtual environment designed for this research served as the leadership setting. Results indicated that the effects of stereotype activation on women leaders were moderated by leadership efficacy such that high efficacy leaders exhibited more positive, reactance responses (increased perceived performance, increased rated performance, greater domain identification, and higher well-being) than low efficacy leaders. Additionally, perceived performance mediated the domain identification and well-being effects of stereotype activation on high and low efficacy leaders.
Edging the Change
Authors: McLaughlin Hugh , Young Alys , Hunt Ros
Published: November 2007

• Summary: This article reports the findings of the Edge of Change Project which sought to enable specialist social services teams in three local authorities to improve services for Deaf and hard of hearing service users in line with the Best Practice Standards. In particular we highlight the characteristics of the three areas: the projects they chose; a flavour of how they addressed the projects; and identify potential lessons for those similarly seeking to improve services.

• Findings: In particular we identify potential glimpses for meaningful change including: change being based on underpinning values, partnership with service users, effective communication, `seed money' creativity and a collegial style of management. The inhibitors of change identified include: `keeping the day-job going', underestimating the amount of time and resources required, staff changes, lack of technological support, and the need to be both looking in and out and the fact that external events can change everything.

• Applications : The themes discussed are potentially generalizable and may be of help to those considering similar changes with specialist teams.
A Critical Analysis of Measurements Used to Assess and Manage Scars
Authors: Roques C. , Teot Luc
Published: November 2007

Scars evolve through a maturation stage during which it is necessary to adapt different treatments. To adapt treatments, it is necessary to assess various parameters linked to inflammation. To this end, clinical scar assessments are subjective though reliable, and validation is operator dependent. The Vancouver Scar Scale, Visual Analogic Scale, Patient and Observer Scar Assessment Scale, and the Manchester Scale assess different scar characteristics. These scales are interesting, depending on the type of scars, and are easy to use but subject to errors. To use clinical a scale, the raters must be trained. Parameters can also be precisely assessed by technical means, whereby they rate only one parameter, but are more accurate. Some scales are easy to use, have low cost, and can be used for clinical assessment. Others scales are more complex and expensive, and can be used in research or treatment evaluation.
Disabling Pansclerotic Morphea of Childhood Poses a High Risk of Chronic Ulceration of the Skin and Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Wollina Uwe , Buslau Michael , Heinig Birgit , Petrov Ivailo , Unger Eleonore , Kyriopoulou Eugenia , Koch André , Köstler Erich , Schönlebe Jaqueline , Haroske Gunther , Doede Thorsten , Pramatarov Kyrill
Published: November 2007

Disabling pansclerotic morphea of childhood (DPMC) is a rare and severe variant of scleroderma. This report presents 3 cases that presented to the authors and studies 25 patients from the literature (English language only) for the presence of chronic nonhealing ulcers of skin and skin cancer. The authors identified a total of 30 patients (9 male and 21 female) aged between 1 and 37 years at time of presentation. All cases were less than 14 years old when the disease started. The majority of patients had an aggressive course with deep sclerotic lesions leading to joint contractures and immobility. Five patients suffered from chronic nonhealing leg ulcers (17%), but ulcers were present on other parts of the body (upper limbs, trunk, head) as well (n = 6). Four patients died because of complications of the disease such as sepsis or gangrene. Two patients developed a squamous cell carcinoma at the age of 16 years and 19 years, respectively (6.7%). The available treatment of DMPC-associated ulcers is unsatisfying. Only temporary improvements have been seen in a minority of patients. We report on marked improvement of chronic leg ulcers by a combination of sildenafil 3 × 20 mg/day and repeated application of a porcine small intestinal submucosal acellular matrix.
Inhibition of Endothelial Cell Differentiation and Proinflammatory Cytokine Production During Angiogenesis by Allyl Isothiocyanate and Phenyl Isothiocyanate
Authors: Thejass P. , Kuttan Girija
Published: November 2007

Angiogenesis is a crucial step in the growth and metastasis of cancers. The activation of endothelial cells and their further behavior are very critical during angiogenesis. The authors analyze the effect of allyl isothiocyanate (AITC) and phenyl isothiocyanate (PITC) on angiogenesis in an in vitro model using human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). AITC and PITC significantly inhibited endothelial cell migration, invasion, and tube formation. 3H-thymidine proliferation assay showed that AITC and PITC significantly inhibited the proliferation of HUVECs in vitro. The authors also studied the effect of AITC and PITC on the serum cytokine profiles of angiogenesis-induced animals and found that these compounds are highly potent in the downregulation of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and proinflammatory cytokines such as interleukin (IL)—1β , IL-6, granulocyte macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF), and tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α). Treatment with these compounds showed an elevation in the levels of IL-2 and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases (TIMP)—1, which are antiangiogenic factors. Moreover, studies using B16F-10 melanoma cells showed that both AITC and PITC significantly reduced VEGF mRNA expression. These findings suggest that AITC and PITC act as angiogenesis inhibitors through the downregulation of VEGF and proinflammatory cytokines such as IL-1β, IL-6, GM-CSF, and TNF-α and upregulation of IL-2 and TIMP.
Costs of Juvenile Crime in Urban Areas
Authors: Welsh Brandon C. , Loeber Rolf , Stevens Bradley R. , Stouthamer-Loeber Magda , Cohen Mark A. , Farrington David P.
Published: November 2007

It is important to calculate the monetized social burden of crime, and a longitudinal perspective offers distinct advantages over studies limited to one year. This study assessed the monetary costs to society of self-reported male juvenile offending in urban areas. Previously published estimates of victim costs of a number of violent and property crimes were used to calculate the monetized social burden of criminal activity of a cohort of 503 boys (ages 7–17 years), comprising the youngest sample of the Pittsburgh Youth Study. Conservatively estimated, the cohort caused a substantial burden of harm to society in the form of victimization costs, ranging from a low of $89 million to a high of $110 million. From an early age the cohort was responsible for substantial crime victim losses, with these losses mounting in the teen years. Importantly, it is argued that high crime costs do not themselves suggest a policy solution. Implications for policy and research are explored within this context.
Interactions Between Perceived Behavioral Control and Personal-Normative Motives
Authors: Wall Rob , Devine-Wright Patrick , Mill Greig A.
Published: November 2007

This article reports a two-phase study of travel-mode choice. It demonstrates a purposive sampling technique using regression residuals, which is useful for linking quantitative and qualitative phases in sequential research designs. It also illustrates the value of mixed methods in terms of increased confidence in findings. Applying Norm-Activation Theory and the Theory of Planned Behavior, the study shows that perceived behavioral control can moderate personal-normative motives' effect on travel-mode decisions. Phase 1 used logistic regression (n = 392) and showed that personal-normative motives' influence on car-use intentions increased with perceived control. Phase 2 participants (n = 24) were interviewed about their travel and accounts echoed quantitative findings with regard to perceived control as a limiting factor on personal-normative motives' influence.
X-chromosome tiling path array detection of copy number variants in patients with chromosome X-linked mental retardation
Authors: Madrigal I , Rodríguez-Revenga L , Armengol L , González E , Rodriguez B , Badenas C , Sánchez A , Martínez F , Guitart M , Fernández-Carvajal I , Arranz JA , Tejada MI , Pérez-Jurado LA , Estivill X , Milà M
Published: November 2007

Background

Aproximately 5–10% of cases of mental retardation in males are due to copy number variations (CNV) on the X chromosome. Novel technologies, such as array comparative genomic hybridization (aCGH), may help to uncover cryptic rearrangements in X-linked mental retardation (XLMR) patients. We have constructed an X-chromosome tiling path array using bacterial artificial chromosomes (BACs) and validated it using samples with cytogenetically defined copy number changes. We have studied 54 patients with idiopathic mental retardation and 20 controls subjects.

Results

Known genomic aberrations were reliably detected on the array and eight novel submicroscopic imbalances, likely causative for the mental retardation (MR) phenotype, were detected. Putatively pathogenic rearrangements included three deletions and five duplications (ranging between 82 kb to one Mb), all but two affecting genes previously known to be responsible for XLMR. Additionally, we describe different CNV regions with significant different frequencies in XLMR and control subjects (44% vs. 20%).

Conclusion

This tiling path array of the human X chromosome has proven successful for the detection and characterization of known rearrangements and novel CNVs in XLMR patients.
Functional, genetic and bioinformatic characterization of a calcium/calmodulin kinase gene in Sporothrix schenckii
Authors: Valle-Aviles Liz , Valentin-Berrios Shirley , Gonzalez-Mendez Ricardo R , Rodriguez-del Valle Nuri
Published: November 2007

Background

Sporothrix schenckii is a pathogenic, dimorphic fungus, the etiological agent of sporotrichosis, a subcutaneous lymphatic mycosis. Dimorphism in S. schenckii responds to second messengers such as cAMP and calcium, suggesting the possible involvement of a calcium/calmodulin kinase in its regulation. In this study we describe a novel calcium/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase gene in S. schenckii, sscmk1, and the effects of inhibitors of calmodulin and calcium/calmodulin kinases on the yeast to mycelium transition and the yeast cell cycle.

Results

Using the PCR homology approach a new member of the calcium/calmodulin kinase family, SSCMK1, was identified in this fungus. The cDNA sequence of sscmk1 revealed an open reading frame of 1,221 nucleotides encoding a 407 amino acid protein with a predicted molecular weight of 45.6 kDa. The genomic sequence of sscmk1 revealed the same ORF interrupted by five introns. Bioinformatic analyses of SSCMK1 showed that this protein had the distinctive features that characterize a calcium/calmodulin protein kinase: a serine/threonine protein kinase domain and a calmodulin-binding domain. When compared to homologues from seven species of filamentous fungi, SSCMK1 showed substantial similarities, except for a large and highly variable region that encompasses positions 330 – 380 of the multiple sequence alignment. Inhibition studies using calmodulin inhibitor W-7, and calcium/calmodulin kinase inhibitors, KN-62 and lavendustin C, were found to inhibit budding by cells induced to re-enter the yeast cell cycle and to favor the yeast to mycelium transition.

Conclusion

This study constitutes the first evidence of the presence of a calcium/calmodulin kinase-encoding gene in S. schenckii and its possible involvement as an effector of dimorphism in this fungus. These results suggest that a calcium/calmodulin dependent signaling pathway could be involved in the regulation of dimorphism in this fungus. The results suggest that the calcium/calmodulin kinases of yeasts are evolutionarily distinct from those in filamentous fungi.
Prevalence of anemia and deficiency of iron, folic acid, and zinc in children younger than 2 years of age who use the health services provided by the Mexican Social Security Institute
Authors: Duque Ximena , Flores-Hernández Sergio , Flores-Huerta Samuel , Méndez-Ramírez Ignacio , Muñoz Sergio , Turnbull Bernardo , Martínez-Andrade Gloria , Ramos Rosa I , González-Unzaga Marco , Mendoza María E , Martínez Homero
Published: November 2007

Background

In Mexico, as in other developing countries, micronutrient deficiencies are common in infants between 6 and 24 months of age and are an important public health problem. The objective of this study was to determine the prevalence of anemia and of iron, folic acid, and zinc deficiencies in Mexican children under 2 years of age who use the health care services provided by the Mexican Institute for Social Security (IMSS).

Methods

A nationwide survey was conducted with a representative sample of children younger than 2 years of age, beneficiaries, and users of health care services provided by IMSS through its regular regimen (located in urban populations) and its Oportunidades program (services offered in rural areas). A subsample of 4,955 clinically healthy children was studied to determine their micronutrient status. A venous blood sample was drawn to determine hemoglobin, serum ferritin, percent of transferrin saturation, zinc, and folic acid. Descriptive statistics include point estimates and 95% confidence intervals for the sample and projections for the larger population from which the sample was drawn.

Results

Twenty percent of children younger than 2 years of age had anemia, and 27.8% (rural) to 32.6% (urban) had iron deficiency; more than 50% of anemia was not associated with low ferritin concentrations. Iron stores were more depleted as age increased. Low serum zinc and folic acid deficiencies were 28% and 10%, respectively, in the urban areas, and 13% and 8%, respectively, in rural areas. The prevalence of simultaneous iron and zinc deficiencies was 9.2% and 2.7% in urban and rural areas. Children with anemia have higher percentages of folic acid deficiency than children with normal iron status.

Conclusion

Iron and zinc deficiencies constitute the principal micronutrient deficiencies in Mexican children younger than 2 years old who use the health care services provided by IMSS. Anemia not associated with low ferritin values was more prevalent than iron-deficiency anemia. The presence of micronutrient deficiencies at this early age calls for effective preventive public nutrition programs to address them.
Capacity management of nursing staff as a vehicle for organizational improvement
Authors: Elkhuizen Sylvia G , Bor Gert , Smeenk Marjolein , Klazinga Niek S , Bakker Piet JM
Published: November 2007

Background

Capacity management systems create insight into required resources like staff and equipment. For inpatient hospital care, capacity management requires information on beds and nursing staff capacity, on a daily as well as annual basis. This paper presents a comprehensive capacity model that gives insight into required nursing staff capacity and opportunities to improve capacity utilization on a ward level.

Methods

A capacity model was developed to calculate required nursing staff capacity. The model used historical bed utilization, nurse-patient ratios, and parameters concerning contract hours to calculate beds and nursing staff needed per shift and the number of nurses needed on an annual basis in a ward. The model was applied to three different capacity management problems on three separate groups of hospital wards. The problems entailed operational, tactical, and strategic management issues: optimizing working processes on pediatric wards, predicting the consequences of reducing length of stay on nursing staff required on a cardiology ward, and calculating the nursing staff consequences of merging two internal medicine wards.

Results

It was possible to build a model based on easily available data that calculate the nursing staff capacity needed daily and annually and that accommodate organizational improvements. Organizational improvement processes were initiated in three different groups of wards. For two pediatric wards, the most important improvements were found to be improving working processes so that the agreed nurse-patient ratios could be attained. In the second case, for a cardiology ward, what-if analyses with the model showed that workload could be substantially lowered by reducing length of stay. The third case demonstrated the possible savings in capacity that could be achieved by merging two small internal medicine wards.

Conclusion

A comprehensive capacity model was developed and successfully applied to support capacity decisions on operational, tactical, and strategic levels. It appeared to be a useful tool for supporting discussions between wards and hospital management by giving objective and quantitative insight into staff and bed requirements. Moreover, the model was applied to initiate organizational improvements, which resulted in more efficient capacity utilization.
Prediction of psychosis: setting the stage
Authors: Yung Alison R. , McGorry Patrick D.
Published: November 2007

Treating psychotic disorders in their earliest stages has become a key focus
for research and clinical care. This paper reviews evidence of the capacity
to identify those at increased risk for psychotic disorder and to intervene
in the identified, high-risk individuals to ameliorate the course of
disorder. Issues involved in preventive oriented clinical care are
addressed, such as risk/benefit considerations, ethical and safety issues
and the value of stage-specific interventions. Clinical predictors
identified in recent research, promising intervention trials and proposed
clinical practice guidelines are described. An approach based on active
engagement, support and monitoring, yet with a conservative approach to
medication use is advocated at present. Potential neurobiological processes
have been studied and reinforce the sense that this is a critical phase for
active treatment, and may prove helpful in understanding the process of
transition across stages of illness. More research is required in
prediction, neurobiology and treatment
Delusion formation and reasoning biases in those at clinical
high risk for psychosis
Authors: Broome M. R. , Johns L. C. , Valli I. , Woolley J. B. , Tabraham P. , Brett C. , Valmaggia L. , Peters E. , Garety P. A. , McGuire P. K.
Published: November 2007

Background

Cognitive models propose that faulty appraisal of anomalous experiences
is critical in developing psychosis, particularly delusions. A data
gathering bias may be fundamental to abnormal appraisal

Aims

To examine whether there is a data gathering bias in people at high risk
of developing psychosis

Method

Individuals with an at-risk mental state (n=35) were
compared with a matched group of healthy volunteers
(n=23). Participants were tested using a modified
version of the ‘beads’ reasoning task with different levels of task
difficulty

Results

When task demands were high, the at-risk group made judgements on the
basis of less information than the control group (P <
0.05). Within both groups, jumping to conclusions was directly correlated
with the severity of abnormal beliefs and intolerance of uncertainty
(P<0.05). In the at-risk group it was also
associated with impaired working memory (P<0.05),
whereas in the control group poor working memory was associated with a
more conservative response style (P<0.05)

Conclusions

People with an at-risk mental state display a jumping to conclusions
reasoning style, associated with impaired working memory and intolerance
of uncertainty. This may underlie a tendency to develop abnormal beliefs
and a vulnerability to psychosis
Cognitive decline following psychosis onset
Authors: Wood Stephen J. , Brewer Warrick J. , Koutsouradis Penny , Phillips Lisa J. , Francey Shona M. , Proffitt Tina M. , Yung Alison R. , Jackson Henry J. , McGorry Patrick D. , Pantelis Christos
Published: November 2007

Background

The origin of cognitive impairments in psychotic disorders is still unclear. Although some deficits are apparent prior to the onset of frank illness, it is unknown if they progress

Aims

To investigate whether cognitive function declined over the transition to psychosis in a group of ultra-high risk individuals

Method

Participants consisted of two groups: controls (n= 17) and individuals at ultra-high risk for development of psychosis (n= 16). Seven of the latter group later developed psychosis. Neuropsychological testing was conducted at baseline and again after at least a 12-month interval

Results

Both the Visual Reproduction sub-test of the Wechsler Memory Scale-Revised and Trail-Making Test B showed a decline over the follow-up period that was specific to the group who became psychotic. In addition, both high-risk groups showed a decline in digit span performance. No other task showed significant change over time

Conclusions

These preliminary data suggest that as psychosis develops there may be a specific decline in visual memory and attentional set-shifting, reflecting impairments in efficient organisation of visual stimuli. This may be caused by either the illness itself or treatment with antipsychotic medication