bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Glucagon improves insulin secretion from pig islets in vitro
Authors: Bertuzzi F , Berra C , Socci C , Davalli A M , Calori G , Freschi M , Piemonti L , De Nittis P , Pozza G , Pontiroli A E
Published: December 2008

It has been shown that peripheral glucagon secreting cells (A-cells) are lost during most of the isolation procedures employed for pig islets. Loss of A-cells decreases intra-islet glucagon levels and cAMP levels in B-cells and might reduce glucose-induced insulin release. This study was designed to test this hypothesis, by evaluating the effects of culture of porcine islets with exogenous glucagon on insulin secretion and on insulin and cAMP content in islets. Islets were isolated from adult 2-year old Large White pigs using an automated method. The number of A-cells was calculated by immunostaining for glucagon in islets before and after isolation and a significant decrease in A-cells was observed. After an overnight culture, islets were cultured for 48 h in a standard medium (CMRL 1066, 10% foetal calf serum, 1% antibiotics, 1% glutamine) alone or in the presence of glucagon at two different concentrations (1·0 and 10·0 μm); exposure to glucagon was either continuous or alternated with periods of incubation in CMRL 1066 alone. After the 48-h culture in standard medium, the islet glucagon response to arginine was almost negligible and significantly lower than that observed in human islets. After culture, islet insulin response to glucose, and islet insulin and cAMP content were evaluated; continuous exposure to glucagon did not produce any significant effect on either insulin secretion or insulin and cAMP content; in contrast, discontinuous exposure to glucagon induced a significant improvement in insulin release, proportional to glucagon concentrations (integrated insulin release: −13·8 ±20·12 pg/islet/20 min in control islets, 111·0±50·73 and 144·7± 47·54 pg/islet/20 min in islets exposed to 1·0 and 10·0 μg glucagon respectively; n=10, P=0·01). Intracellular insulin and cAMP content of islets cultured in different culture media were not different. In conclusion, discontinuous exposure of isolated pig islets to exogenous glucagon induced a significant increase in glucose-induced insulin release which was not associated with an increase in cAMP content. The fact that even in the presence of glucagon the secretory activity of pig islets was lower than the reported activity of human or rat islets suggests that glucagon is only one of the factors involved in the poor insulin responsiveness of pig islets.

Journal of Endocrinology (1995) 147, 87–93
Endothelin-1 and endothelin receptors are present in the sheep uterus and conceptus at implantation
Authors: Riley S C , Findlay J K , Salamonsen L A
Published: December 2008

Previous studies have demonstrated that endothelin is present in the ovine endometrium and increases at around the expected time of implantation. To characterize further uterine endothelin at the time of establishment of pregnancy in sheep, endothelin was measured by radioimmunoassay in uterine flushings obtained during the oestrous cycle and in pregnant ewes up to the time of implantation (day 16). During the oestrous cycle, the highest amounts of endothelin were present in uterine flushings on day 14 (1·1 ±0·2 ng endothelin/uterus). During early pregnancy, basal levels of endothelin (0·5–0·6 ng endothelin/uterus) were present in uterine flushings for the first 10 days and then increased on day 14 to levels similar to those found at the equivalent stage of the oestrous cycle. On days 15 and 16 of pregnancy, endothelin content in the uterine lumen increased to significantly (P<0·05) higher concentrations (2·9±0·4 ng endothelin/uterus) when compared with the non-fertile cycle. The principal isoform present in flushings at the time of implantation was endothelin-1, as determined by reverse-phase HPLC. Endothelin was released principally by purified endometrial epithelial cells in culture, with barely detectable amounts released by endometrial stromal cells or conceptus tissue, which is consistent with the epithelium being the principal source of endothelin in the uterine lumen. Endothelin binding sites were present in endometrium and myometrium, as demonstrated by specific binding of 125I-labelled endothelin-1, which was saturable and displaced by endothelin-1. Both endothelinA and B sub-types of receptors were present as demonstrated by the biphasic displacement of 125I-labelled endothelin-1 binding by the specific endothelinB agonist BQ3020. These were localised principally on luminal and glandular epithelium and in the vasculature of the endometrium and myometrium as shown by autoradiography. Endothelin receptors were also present on the conceptus obtained at the time of implantation. In the day 20 conceptus, endothelin immunostaining was localised principally in the heart, in trophoblast in uninucleate but not in binucleate cells, and in fetal membranes. This immunostaining of the conceptus may represent binding to receptor sites. It is concluded that endothelin-1 is present in the uterine lumen and may play an important role in the paracrine regulation of the conceptus and endometrium at the time of rapid embryo development, implantation and early placentation.

Journal of Endocrinology (1995) 147, 235–244
Problem management/dispute resolution in partnering contracts
Authors: Baatz N.
Published: December 2008

Concepts such as cooperation and good faith are at the centre of the partnering idea. Moreover, these concepts are also part of many conventional contracts. Ultimately partnering involves a ‘virtual’ rather than real partnership because the participants retain their separate legal identities. Therefore if disputes arise their resolution may follow conventional models. The idea of partnering may be useful for certain projects but to enable it to work well careful attention must be paid in advance to risk analysis and risk distribution. It is the combination of the provisions that provide for early risk identification and management and early problem solving and/or dispute resolution that may be crucial to achieving the advantages attributed to partnering.
Sustainable construction and UK legislation and policy
Authors: Waddell H.
Published: December 2008

This paper provides a brief overview of why sustainability has become important and will continue to influence construction and engineering practices. It takes a brief look at current UK legislation and government policy relating to sustainability, future proposed legal reforms and the risks of non-compliance. The paper will highlight the importance of adopting approved practice now. Legal and political reforms will affect the way in which buildings are designed and constructed and will also provide new business opportunities for the construction and engineering industry, so it is important for businesses to plan ahead. Legal and political measures will not be the only factors influencing the sustainable practices of the construction and engineering industry. The paper will also briefly consider other such factors, including corporate social responsibility, market forces, funding and taxation. Although the paper concentrates on measures in the UK, it also notes that the sustainability of buildings is a global issue.
Bokor—A New Look at Sand Production in a Mature Field
Authors: Kasim Abdullah , Wijnands Frank , Subbiah Surej
Published: December 2008

Although the stacked reservoirs of the Bokor field, offshore Sarawak, Malaysia, are prone to sand production, the field development team did not opt a priori for gravel packs in every well. While such completions can indeed eliminate sanding risk, the team also wanted to consider the impact of the completion on the production rate of a well. The optimum completion not only excludes sand, but it also maximizes hydrocarbon production.

The team carried out a geomechanics and sand-production study, using readily available data. The paper gives an insight in the physics of sand production and how this process can be modeled geomechanically. It shows how the model is used to select feasible completions and quantify sand-free production rates over the life of the reservoir.

One important outcome was that screenless completions were possible in the deeper reservoirs by optimizing perforation orientations. Apart from other advantages of screenless completions, this leads to significant potential increases in sand-free production rates.

An integrated sand-management process brought together geomechanics, petrophysics, and reservoir and completion engineering to truly optimize completions.
Strain-Based Design of Tubulars for Extreme-Service Wells
Authors: Nowinka J. , Kaiser T. , Lepper B.
Published: December 2008

This paper presents a framework for a strain-based design of tubular strings in extreme-temperature or high-pressure/ high-temperature (HP/HT) wells. The relevant concepts are illustrated by examples from analytical and experimental investigation of a casing material considered for use in thermally stimulated wells operated by Shell Canada Limited (Shell) in western Canada. Much of this framework is also relevant to other applications where deformation-driven loading mechanisms are present.

Strain-based design uses material capacity beyond its elastic range to overcome a number of economic and technical hurdles encountered in conventional load-based designs. It has been used successfully in field applications where plastic deformations occur (e.g., thermal wells and pipelines). However, current industry standards for material selection have their origins in load-based design. More sophisticated material-characterization tools are required for strain-based designs, in which post-yield material properties govern much of the system response.

This paper describes the application of strain-based concepts to the design of casing strings under combined loading where some load components are deformation controlled. The paper emphasizes the need to address strain localization, high-strain cyclic plastic loading, strain-rate-dependent strength, and associated stress-relaxation effects.

Strain-based design is most effective if relevant and reliable post-yield material properties are available. Experimental investigation of a candidate material considered for Shell Canada's thermal wells consisted of a series of custom-designed coupon-scale tests. The tests were conducted to acquire data describing the post-yield material response to monotonic and cyclic loading at temperatures ranging from 20 to 350°C.

Conclusions of this paper summarize findings of the executed material-evaluation program, outline options to minimize strain-localization impacts, and provide recommendations for strain-based designs of well-completion tubulars. Following these recommendations should result in higher reliability and more cost-effective wells in completion programs using strain-based strategies for designs of extreme service wells.
Dact1, a Nutritionally Regulated Preadipocyte Gene, Controls Adipogenesis by Coordinating the Wnt/β-Catenin Signaling Network
Authors: Lagathu Claire , Christodoulides Constantinos , Virtue Sam , Cawthorn William P. , Franzin Chiara , Kimber Wendy A. , Nora Edoardo Dalla , Campbell Mark , Medina-Gomez Gema , Cheyette Benjamin N.R. , Vidal-Puig Antonio J. , Sethi Jaswinder K.
Published: December 2008

OBJECTIVE—Wnt signaling inhibits adipogenesis, but its regulation, physiological relevance, and molecular effectors are poorly understood. Here, we identify the Wnt modulator Dapper1/Frodo1 (Dact1) as a new preadipocyte gene involved in the regulation of murine and human adipogenesis.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS—Changes in Dact1 expression were investigated in three in vitro models of adipogenesis. In vitro gain- and loss-of-function studies were used to investigate the mechanism of Dact1 action during adipogenesis. The in vivo regulation of Dact1 and Wnt/β-catenin signaling were investigated in murine models of altered nutritional status, of pharmacological stimulation of in vivo adipogenesis, and during the development of dietary and genetic obesity.

RESULTS— Dact1 is a preadipocyte gene that decreases during adipogenesis. However, Dact1 knockdown impairs adipogenesis through activation of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway, and this is reversed by treatment with the secreted Wnt antagonist, secreted Frizzled-related protein 1 (Sfrp1). In contrast, constitutive Dact1 overexpression promotes adipogenesis and confers resistance to Wnt ligand-induced antiadipogenesis through increased expression of endogenous Sfrps and reduced expression of Wnts. In vivo, in white adipose tissue, Dact1 and Wnt/β-catenin signaling also exhibit coordinated expression profiles in response to altered nutritional status, in response to pharmacological stimulation of in vivo adipogenesis, and during the development of dietary and genetic obesity.

CONCLUSIONS—Dact1 regulates adipogenesis through coordinated effects on gene expression that selectively alter intracellular and paracrine/autocrine components of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. These novel insights into the molecular mechanisms controlling adipose tissue plasticity provide a functional network with therapeutic potential against diseases, such as obesity and associated metabolic disorders.
Random Capillary Blood Glucose Cut Points for Diabetes and Pre-Diabetes Derived From Community-Based Opportunistic Screening in India
Authors: Somannavar Suresh , Ganesan Anbazhagan , Deepa Mohan , Datta Manjula , Mohan Viswanathan
Published: December 2008

OBJECTIVE

To determine random capillary blood glucose (RCBG) cut points that discriminate diabetic and pre-diabetic subjects from normal individuals.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

RCBG was performed in 1,333 individuals randomly chosen from 63,305 individuals who had participated in an opportunistic screening program. An oral glucose tolerance test was also performed by venous plasma glucose on an autoanalyzer. RCBG cut points that discriminate diabetes, impaired glucose tolerance (IGT), and impaired fasting glucose (IFG) were determined using receiver operating characteristic curves.

RESULTS

Using 2-h plasma glucose ≥200 mg/dl (11.1 mmol/l) criterion, the RCBG cut point of 140 mg/dl (7.7 mmol/l) gave the highest sensitivity and specificity. For 2-h plasma glucose ≥200 mg/dl (11.1 mmol/l) and fasting plasma glucose (FPG) ≥126 mg/dl (7.0 mmol/l) criteria, either 2-h plasma glucose ≥200 mg/dl (11.1 mmol/l) or FPG ≥126 mg/dl (7.0 mmol/l) criterion, and the FPG ≥126 mg/dl (7.0 mmol/l) criterion, RCBG cut point was 143 mg/dl (7.9 mmol/l). RCBG cut points for IGT, IFG according to World Health Organization criterion, and IFG according to American Diabetes Association criterion were 119 mg/dl (6.6 mmol/l), 118 mg/dl (6.6 mmol/l), and 113 mg/dl (6.3 mmol/l), respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Asian Indians with RCBG >110 mg/dl at screening can be recommended to undergo definitive testing.
Zearalenone and Reproductive Function in Farm Animals
Authors: Minervini Fiorenza , Dell’Aquila Maria Elena
Published: December 2008

Farm animals are exposed to zearalenone through the feed because of the widespread occurrence of this mycotoxin in cereals and clinical reproductive disorders due to mycotoxin effects are often reported in farm animal species. This review describes the metabolism, the mechanistic aspects, the clinical reproductive symptoms and the in vitro effects on functional parameters of oocytes and sperm cells induced by zearalenone and its derivatives in farm animals. The studies on in vitro effects allow to understand the action mechanisms of mycotoxins and, sometime, to explain the in vivo symptoms. The impairment of semen quality and female reproductive function induced by zearalenone could be a factor responsible for the reproductive failure in farm animals.
Integrating supply chain and network analyses: The study of netchains
Authors: Lazzarini Sergio G. , Chaddad Fabio R. , Cook Michael L.
Published: December 2008

This paper introduces the concept of netchain analysis. A netchain is a set of networks comprised of horizontal ties between firms within a particular industry or group, which are sequentially arranged based on vertical ties between firms in different layers. Netchain analysis interprets supply chain and network perspectives on inter-organisational collaboration with particular emphasis on the value creating and coordination mechanism sources. We posit that sources of value and coordination mechanisms correspond to particular and distinct types of interdependencies: pooled, sequential, and reciprocal. It is further argued that the recognition and accounting of these simultaneous interdependencies is crucial for a more advanced understanding of complex inter-organisational relations. The paper concludes with an analysis of a set of netchain configuration examples, including buyer-supplier relationships, information technology induced interorganization collaborations, and the introduction of the “macrohierarchy” organization structure.
In search of relationship quality, customer retention and shareholder value: Findings from an exploratory, qualitative multiple case study
Authors: Lindgreen Adam
Published: December 2008

This article reports on the findings from an exploratory, qualitative first part of a research that (1) theorises that successful creation of shareholder value in relationship marketing and management requires relationship quality, which translates into customer retention, and that (2) models relationship quality and customer retention as key mediating variables in the creation of shareholder value. A multiple case study involving companies (in exporter-importer dyads) in the Danish- British dairy sector, the Danish-British bacon sector and the New Zealand-British wine sector explored the key constructs of relationship quality; specifically, the cases examined whether or not the dimensions of relationship quality that Roberts (1998) and Roberts et al. (2000) have suggested are an appropriate framework. These dimensions are as follows: trust in credibility, trust in benevolence, commitment, conflict, satisfaction and social bonding. The evidence of the findings suggests that it does make sense to employ relationship quality as a concept in relationship marketing and management, and that the six dimensions are an appropriate framework for doing so. The managerial implications of the research findings are examined. The article concludes that there is a positive relationship between all of the antecedents of relationship quality (except for conflict), and that there is a positive relationship between customer retention and all of the consequences of customer retention (except for customer costs), and it proposes to test this idea in a confirmative, quantitative second part (using LISREL) in the context of the New Zealand-British wine sector.
The knowledge domain of chain and network science
Authors: Omta Onno , Trienekens Jacques , Beers George
Published: December 2008

This editorial paper aims to provide a framework to categorise and evaluate the domain of Chain and Network Science (CNS), and to provide an envelope for the research and management agenda. The authors strongly feel that although considerable progress has been made over the past couple of years in the development of the CNS domain, a number of important and exciting challenges are still waiting to be tackled. This paper provides a definition of the object of study of CNS, its central problem area, the organisation and governance of chain and network co-operation, and the relationships between chain organisation and technology development, market dynamics, and the economy and society at large. It indicates relevant sources of knowledge among the various academic disciplines. It touches upon CNS problem solving by identifying areas for knowledge development and CNS tool construction.
Managing perceived risk: a multi-tier case study of a uk retail beef supply chain
Authors: Hornibrook S.A. , Fearne A.
Published: December 2008

This paper examines the effect of increased environmental uncertainty and information asymmetry on contractual relationships between all members of the beef supply chain. It offers an alternative theoretical framework to the traditional Transaction Cost Economics view of the treatment of information by viewing co-ordinated supply chains as a series of Principal Agent relationships, and draws on Perceived Risk Theory to explain both consumer and organisational behaviour. The paper also presents a supply chain methodology and submits empirical evidence of the perceived risks, associated management strategies and benefits for all members, including consumers, of one particular UK retail co-ordinated supply chain for an own brand fresh beef product.
Interdependency in joint ventures: the relationship between dependence asymmetry and performance
Authors: Kemp R.G.M. , Ghauri P.N.
Published: December 2008

This paper reports the results of a survey on joint venture collaborations. It focuses on the relations between the level and intensity of conflict, trust and norms of exchange, and ultimately the performance of a joint venture, in case of dependency asymmetry between the partners. In management literature, the relative dependency position of the partners is often indicated as an important antecedent of conflict. In a survey of 78 Dutch companies in joint ventures, we investigated these relationships in depth. Contrary to expectations, we did not find a relationship between the relative dependency of the partners, conflict and performance. The potential threat of conflict seems to be mediated by the norms of exchange shared by the partners. We therefore tentatively conclude that the best way to manage the dependency position in a JV might be to invest time and effort in discussing the norms of exchange up-front, which will help the partners develop a trusting relationship.
Improving cooperation to make the South African fresh apple export value chain more competitive
Authors: Hardman Paul , Darroch Mark , Ortmann Gerald
Published: December 2008

This paper investigates aspects of cooperation between South African (SA) apple producers, packers and exporters in the Western Cape and Langkloof East areas during 2001 in order to show where these players need to commit more resources to make the SA fresh apple export value chain more competitive. A recursive Ordinary Least Squares model shows that higher levels of trust led to more cooperation (joint problem-solving and communication) between these players. Higher levels of joint problem-solving and communication, in turn, encouraged producers to commit more human resources to working with packers and exporters to find ways of making the chain more competitive. Results also suggest that the players need to particularly improve cooperation in production planning, delivery scheduling and quality control. Packers and exporters ranked climatic conditions as the top constraint currently facing the SA fresh apple industry, probably reflecting their concerns over the annual "pack-out" (quality distribution) of the apple crop. Other factors affecting competitiveness include the recent withdrawal of government export incentives, restrictive labour policy, high real interest rates, a lack of market information, and the growing and marketing of inappropriate apple varieties.
Market Monitoring in Dynamic Supply Networks and Chains: an Internet-Based Support System for the Agri-Food Sector
Authors: Fritz Melanie , Schiefer Gerhard
Published: December 2008

Enterprises in dynamic supply networks and chains with changing business partnerships are involved in complex dependency structures and interrelationships. Consequently, awareness of developments in the competitive and market environment is of paramount importance for economic success. The research presented in this paper deals with the conception of Internet-based support systems which supply actors in dynamic supply networks and chains with individualised information about their competitive and market environment. The paper builds on the situation in the agri-food sector but the discussions of the theoretical background and the principal system design generally apply to dynamic network scenarios. The paper presents a conceptual approach for a market monitoring system, which integrates results of research from a variety of scientific fields, utilises focused rule-based expert knowledge, and implements research-supported automation potentials. The design allows for information quality, efficiency and economic feasibility. First empirical results from experimental studies support the concept. The paper concludes with the discussion of a research outline for further validation initiatives in experimental and sector environments.
Buyer/seller reflections on inter-organisational information systems: Implications for chain data collection methods
Authors: Storer Christine , Soutar Geoffrey , Darrington Michelle , Rola-Rubzen M. Fay
Published: December 2008

When deciding to conduct research on chains and networks, a decision needs to be made about the unit of analysis that will be used for data collection. The present paper examines the validity of collecting data from one party in a chain or dyad. The research examines the differences in perception between dyadic pairs of buyers and sellers about the nature of their relationship and the inter-organisational information system. There were significant differences in perceptions about the nature of the inter-organisational information system in terms of some the types of information exchanged, the frequency of exchange of different types of information, whether information was exchanged as often as necessary, the direction information flowed and the richness of the communication media used to exchange information. Customers and suppliers did not have significant differences in perception of the informality of the information systems. There were differences in perceptions about the relationship in terms of responsiveness and changes in commitment over time. In addition, there were differences in perception about their importance and loyalty to each other, and the predictability of demand and volume of supply. The implication for data collection in chain and network research is that greater accuracy will be gained by collection of data from all parties in dyadic, chain or network relationships. In addition, it would seem that data should be collected from multiple informants with at least one from each department that has dealings with the other party. Where a high level of accuracy is needed, diary records or electronic tracking may be needed to keep track of activities.
Elicitation of expert knowledge on controllingSalmonellain the pork chain
Authors: van der Gaag Monique , Huirne Ruud
Published: December 2008

Salmonella is one of the most important risks for food safety, and pork is one of the sources of human salmonellosis. A chain approach is essential to reduce Salmonella in pork products. A survey was carried out among Dutch and Danish experts in the field of Salmonella to evaluate the entire pork supply chain. The aims of the survey were to determine and rank possible management interventions (such as adjusted or new procedures, technical adjustments and control measures), and to estimate the details of the course of infection and contamination. An additional objective was to compare the opinions of experts from different countries and different backgrounds. The two stages in which it was expected that management interventions to improving food safety with respect to Salmonella in pork would be most effective were the the finishing stage (by preventing the spread of Salmonella within the farm) and the slaughtering stage (by preventing cross-contamination). The differences in the opinions of respondents from different backgrounds were mainly reflected by the relative importance they attached to the specific management interventions. For instance, the Danish respondents attached more importance to the purchase of Salmonella-free piglets in the finishing stage and to logistic slaughter. Respondents with a research background seemed to attach most importance to interventions that were also presented in recent literature, such as feeding non-heated grain to finishing pigs. For issues in which multiple stages of a supply chain are involved, a solid basic knowledge about the conditions per stage with respect to the issue is necessary.
Food Franchising and Backward Coordination: An Empirical Analysis of Brazilian Firms
Authors: Azevedo Paulo , Silva Vivian
Published: December 2008

Franchising is an important trend in business contracting, and it plays a special role in the food sector. The function of franchising as a governance structure of the transactions between franchisor and franchisee (forward coordination) is well known. This paper, in contrast, investigates the backward coordination brought about by food franchising. The main hypothesis is that the choice of governance structure depends on the quality strategy adopted by franchisors. This occurs because, under certain conditions, quality strategies imply higher asset specificity or greater uncertainty. As a consequence, quality strategies may lead companies to adopt hybrid forms (or even vertical integration) rather than spot markets. In order to test this hypothesis, this paper presents a discrete structural analysis of six cases of franchising in the Brazilian market, specifically four coffee shop chains and two fast-food chains. The main TCE predictions are confirmed: higher asset specificity and greater uncertainty are associated with governance structures that provide more control. Some of the results, however, are better explained by historical aspects (path dependence).
Co-evolutionary Processes in Supply Chain Networks
Authors: Ng Desmond , Sonka Steven , Westgren Randall
Published: December 2008

This paper presents an innovative conceptual and analytical framework to enhance understanding of the dynamic processes of food supply chains. The framework employs a co-evolutionary perspective to exploit complex and dynamic relationships spanning different levels of aggregation. To make this co-evolutionary perspective operational, the paper's conceptual approach draws from complexity theory, Austrian economics, and social networks. This approach not only improves our understanding of the conflicting dynamic influences that impact food market systems but also presents an alternative viewpoint of organizational interrelationships. In addition, this framework provides analytical advances through the use of agent-based modelling in an agricultural supply chain context. Simulation results are presented to support the arguments of this nested co-evolutionary framework.
Intellectual capital, learning, and knowledge management in agrifood supply chains
Authors: Sporleder Thomas , Peterson H. Christopher
Published: December 2008

The dynamics of the food system are rapidly evolving so that intangible assets are relatively more important than tangible assets. This evolving shift in the basis of rivalry among firms puts increasing demands on corporate strategy. A future challenge for agrifood firms is to embrace strategy that includes, at least conceptually, knowledge as a strategic asset of a firm. Knowledge and its management are emerging in contemporary thought as a potential source of sustainable competitive advantage. This analysis begins by examining the next evolutionary phase in supply chain integration as a learning supply chain. Conceptually a learning supply chain offers the significant benefits of a truly agile, dynamic response capability for end-users and a fair distribution of returns to all chain participants. The focus then turns to the relationships between network embeddedness and the strategic mix between exploitation and exploration, using knowledge management logic. Managing knowledge for agrifood firms implies the creation and commercialization of intangible assets. The analysis indicates that significant intangibles in the form of brand equity may influence supply chain characteristics to strong ties and close networks. Some specific characteristics would be relatively high embeddedness, high social capital, more easily exchanged tacit knowledge, and higher levels of trust.
Supply chain management, electronic collaboration tools and organizational innovativeness
Authors: Lefebvre Elisabeth , Cassivi Luc , Lefebvre Louis , Léger Pierre-Majorique , Hadaya Pierre
Published: December 2008

The paper focuses on three critical but under-investigated issues for supply chain management: (i) the inherent dynamics of a multi-layered supply chain, (ii) the deployment, use and relative efficiency of e-collaboration tools within the supply chain, and (iii) the impact of these tools on the innovativeness of individual firms acting at different layers of the supply chain. The research design covers multiple layers of one supply chain and provides empirical evidence obtained from a multiplecase study and an electronic mail survey. Results point to the intrinsic relationships between supply chain structure and the deployment of e-collaboration tools. Further, results indicate that the level of perceived efficiency of e-collaboration tools is lower at the upstream end of the supply chain and that supply chain execution (SCE) e-collaboration tools are more efficient than the supply chain planning (SCP) tools. The overall findings also suggest that e-collaboration tools can improve supply chain members' ability to innovate in terms of processes and relationships but not yet in terms of products.
Incorporating the Use of Thromboelastographic Studies When Assessing Bleeding Patients
Authors: Twedell Diane , Liedl Chad P. , Friedrich Tammy P.
Published: December 2008

This column discusses the use of thromboelastographic studies when assessing patients with bleeding disorders.
The Keys to Successful Online Continuing Education Programs for Nurses
Authors: Sweeney Nancy M. , Saarmann Lembi , Flagg Joan , Seidman Robert
Published: December 2008

Asynchronous online tutorials that award continuing education units without cost and provide knowledge about computers and nursing informatics were made available to registered nurses in Southern California. Four hundred seventy-three nurses enrolled; 52% (246) completed tutorials. Nonsignificant differences in the number of tutorials completed were found across characteristics of participants, meaning that nurses were similarly disposed to participate regardless of age, educational preparation, experience, practice setting, or ethnicity. They tended to overestimate their computer capabilities at the time of enrollment and abandoned the tutorials when they encountered technical problems. Nurses need live workshops teaching computer basics, Internet skills, and how to enroll in and run asynchronous programs. Marketing of online programs should be multifaceted, including live and electronic strategies.
Difficult Questions in Difficult Situations
Authors: Billings Diane M. , Kowalski Karren
Published: December 2008

This column discusses effective ways to handle difficult questions posed by participants or students.
The Devastation and Pain of ADHD
Authors: Fawcett Jan
Published: December 2008

EXCERPT

This first edition of Psychiatric Annals for 2008 focuses on Attention-deficit/hyperactivity Disorder, and is guest edited by Mark L. Wolraich, MD. (These articles previously appeared in our partner publication, Pediatric Annals.)
Long-term Safety of Stimulant Medications Used to Treat Children with ADHD
Authors: Lerner Marc , Wigal Tim
Published: December 2008

EXCERPT

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a common mental health condition that impacts children, adolescents, and adults. The practice parameters of both the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry (AACAP) acknowledge the chronic nature of this disorder and recommend treatments that address the need to manage it over time. Patient and parent education, individualized treatment plans, coordination of multiple health services, and working with the school system are some of the tools recommended as part of ADHD management. For decades, stimulant therapy has been the primary option for ADHD management.

ABOUT THE AUTHORS

Marc Lerner, MD, is Clinical Professor of Pediatrics, University of California, Irvine, CA. Tim Wigal, PhD, is Associate Clinical Professor of Pediatrics, UCI Child Development Center, Irvine, CA.

Address correspondence to: Marc Lerner, MD, UCI Medical Center, Department of Pediatrics, 101 The City Drive ZC 4482, Orange, CA 92868; malerner@uci.edu.

Dr. Lerner has disclosed the following relevant financial relationships: McNeil Pediatrics, Novartis, and Shire: Consultant; Cephalon, Eli Lilly, McNeil Pediatrics, Novartis, and Shire: Research Support; and Eli Lilly, McNeil Pediatrics, Novartis/UCB, and Shire: Member of Speakers’ Bureaus. Dr. Wigal has disclosed the following relevant financial relationships: Celltech Pharmaceuticals Inc./UCB, Cephalon Inc, Eli Lilly and Company, McNeil Pharmaceutical, Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation, and Shire Development: Consultant; and McNeil and Shire: Member of Speakers’ Bureaus.

EDUCATIONAL OBJECTIVES Review the impact of new treatment options on the choice of long-term stimulant treatment regimens.In light of new Food and Drug Administration warnings, review the current evidence on cardiovascular effects of long-term attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) treatments.Compare the safety of ADHD stimulant treatment in preschool children to the safety profiles found in school-aged children.
Assessment of Infection in Older Adults: Signs and Symptoms in Four Body Systems
Authors: Barakzai Mary D. , Fraser Dorothy
Published: December 2008

Emerging infections and increased antibiotic resistance are growing concerns within the health care community. Nurses play an important role in the early recognition of clinical manifestations of infection in older adults. Atypical presentation in older adults, the presence of comorbid conditions, and altered immune status all present challenges to both diagnosis and effective treatment in this population. The purpose of this article is to review common infections seen in older adults, with an emphasis on the integration of the effects of physiological changes of aging on patient presentation and nursing assessment.
Use of Mobile Handheld Computers in Clinical Nursing Education
Authors: Farrell Maureen J. , Rose Louise
Published: December 2008

Personal digital assistants (PDAs) are increasingly in use in both clinical practice and nursing education as a method of providing timely access to resources at the point of care. This article describes the use of PDAs during the medical-surgical clinical component of a Bachelor of Nursing program in Australia. The aim of the study was to investigate whether PDAs would enhance students' pharmacological and clinical contextual knowledge and to identify issues associated with the use of PDAs in students' clinical experience. A mixed-method approach was used incorporating a quasi-experimental design with pretest and posttest of pharmacological knowledge and focus group discussions. Students using the PDAs demonstrated a moderate increase in their mean score, which was double the increase in the control group. Findings from the focus group discussions indicated that students found the PDAs easy to use and perceived their use as beneficial to their learning in the clinical area. This study provides support for the ongoing implementation of PDAs into nursing education.
Nursing Education and Transition to the Work Environment: A Synthesis of National Reports
Authors: Hofler Linda D.
Published: December 2008

Over the past 10 years and longer, national entities have worked within their organizations and with coalitions of other stakeholders to address issues facing the nursing profession. As a part of this work, the current state of the educational system for preparation of nurses has been discussed, as well as the need for strategies to enhance nursing students' transition from the academic environment to the work environment. This article presents a review and synthesis of national reports published from 1995 to April 2005 that contain recommendations for nursing education and the transition of nurses to the work environment. Common themes and recommendations across reports are identified and reported. Educators and others can learn from the collective wisdom of previous work and use this information to aid in development of plans and policy initiatives for development of the future nursing educational infrastructure.
Fundus Fluorescein Angiographic Characterization of Diffuse Choroidal Hemangiomas
Authors: Horgan Noel , O’Keefe Michael , McLoone Eibhlin , Lanigan Bernadette
Published: December 2008

Purpose:
To evaluate the clinical usefulness of fundus fluorescein angiography (FFA) in characterizing diffuse choroidal hemangiomas in Sturge–Weber syndrome.

Methods:
A retrospective case review of children attending a university hospital clinic with a diagnosis of Sturge–Weber syndrome was undertaken. The FFA findings of seven patients who had undergone angiography were reviewed.

Results:
FFA confirmed the presence of choroidal hemangioma in each of the seven cases and delineated the extent of the choroidal lesions. No adverse effects of fluorescein injection were encountered.

Conclusions:
FFA is effective in diagnosing and characterizing diffuse choroidal hemangiomas, and may be performed safely in children.
Pigmented Free-Floating Vitreous Cyst in a Child
Authors: Lally David R. , Shields Jerry F. , Shields Carol L. , Marr Brian P. , Shields Jerry A.
Published: December 2008

An 8-year-old asymptomatic boy was referred for a pigmented fundus lesion in his left eye that was suspected to be a possible choroidal melanoma. Visual acuity was 20/20 in each eye. Ocular examination in the upright position revealed a pigmented lesion measuring 4 mm in diameter and 3 mm in thickness located inferior to the fovea. Following supine positioning, the mass floated to the superior macular region. Ultrasonography confirmed a cystic vitreous mass. Observation of the benign vitreous cyst was advised. A free-floating pigmented cyst can resemble a pigmented intraocular tumor, particularly if it is immediately preretinal.
How Are Drugs Approved?: Part 1: The Evolution of the Food and Drug Administration
Authors: Howland Robert H.
Published: December 2008

The discovery, development, and marketing of drugs for clinical use is a process that is complex, arduous, expensive, highly regulated, often criticized, and sometimes controversial. In the United States, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is the governmental agency responsible for regulating the development and marketing of drugs, medical devices, biologics, foods, cosmetics, radiation-emitting electronic devices, and veterinary products, with the objective of ensuring their safety and efficacy. As part of a broad overview of the drug development process, this article will describe the historical evolution of the FDA. This will provide background for two subsequent articles in this series, which will describe the ethical foundations of clinical research and the stages of drug development.
Play Preferences of Typically Developing Children and Children with Developmental Delays between Ages 3 and 7 Years
Authors: Case-Smith Jane , Kuhaneck Heather Miller
Published: December 2008

This cross-sectional survey research investigated play preferences of children with and without developmental delays who were between 3 and 7 years old. Parents completed questionnaires regarding their child's play activity and context preferences. Valid results were obtained for 166 children, 83 of whom had developmental delays. Preference ratings were compared by gender, age, and delay status. Play preference did not differ by gender. Rough-and-tumble play and computer/video game play increased with age, whereas object exploration decreased. Children with developmental delays had higher preferences for rough-and-tumble play and object exploration and lower preferences for drawing and coloring, construction, and doll and action figurine play than typically developing children. This comparison of children's play preferences across ages, gender, and developmental status enhances our understanding of how these variables influence children's play.
Choroidal Metastasis from Submandibular Salivary Gland Adenoid Cystic Carcinoma
Authors: Demirci Hakan , Vine Andrew K. , Elner Victor M.
Published: December 2008

A case of choroidal metastasis from an adenoid cystic carcinoma of submandibular salivary gland is described. A 50-year-old woman with loss of vision in her left eye for 1 week was evaluated clinically, radiologically, and pathologically. A fundus image of the left eye showed an amelanotic, plateau-shaped choroidal mass measuring 17 × 12 × 4 mm with overlying exudative retinal detachment. A choroidal biopsy was consistent with metastatic adenoid cystic carcinoma from her submandibular salivary gland treated 5 years previously. She was treated with external beam radiotherapy but developed liver and lung metastases 3 months later and died within 1 month. All of the metastases demonstrated a basaloid histologic variant of adenoid cystic carcinoma that is known for its aggressive potential. Salivary gland carcinoma rarely metastasizes to the choroid; however, evaluation of patients with this carcinoma should include ophthalmic examination.
Comparative Results of Central Corneal Thickness Measurements in Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma, Pseudoexfoliation Glaucoma, and Ocular Hypertension
Authors: Gorezis Spiridon , Christos Gartzos , Stefaniotou Maria , Moustaklis Kostantinos
Published: December 2008

Background and Objective:
As clinical measurements of corneal thickness have become widely available, several studies found a positive correlation between central corneal thickness and applanation tonometry measurements. This study evaluated central corneal thickness in different types of glaucoma.

Patients and Methods:
An observational cross-sectional study assessed central corneal thickness using a specular microscope in the following groups of patients: 60 eyes with primary open-angle glaucoma, 50 eyes with pseudoexfoliation glaucoma, 50 eyes with ocular hypertension, and 60 eyes without glaucoma or ocular hypertension (control group).

Results:
Central corneal thickness was significantly thinner in cases with pseudoexfoliation glaucoma (P < .0001) and significantly thicker in cases with ocular hypertension (P< .0001).

Conclusions:
These results agree with the literature, strengthening the position that central corneal thickness varies in different types of glaucoma and, therefore, is a parameter that should be taken under consideration, especially when evaluating cases of pseudoexfoliative glaucoma and ocular hypertension.
The Temporal Sequence of Combined Intravitreal Triamcinolone Acetonide and Photodynamic Therapy for Exudative Age-Related Macular Degeneration
Authors: Roth Daniel B. , Kulkarni Kaushal M. , Feuer William J.
Published: December 2008

Background and Objective:
To compare visual acuity results in patients with exudative age-related macular degeneration treated with two different temporal sequences of combination intravitreal triamcinolone acetonide and photodynamic therapy with verteporfin.

Patients and Methods:
A retrospective, comparative, interventional case series was used. Thirty-one eyes received intravitreal triamcinolone acetonide 1 week prior to photodynamic therapy, and 30 eyes received intravitreal triamcinolone acetonide followed by photodynamic therapy the same day.

Results:
There was no significant difference in visual acuity between the groups at baseline (P = .084), 6 to 12 weeks of follow-up (P = .085), or 1 year of follow-up (P = .093). When visual acuity outcomes were adjusted for baseline visual acuity, spot size, lesion type, age, and gender, there was no significant difference in visual acuity at 6 to 12 weeks (P = .44) or 1 year (P = .28).

Conclusions:
There appears to be no significant difference in visual outcomes in eyes with exudative age-related macular degeneration treated with intravitreal triamcinolone acetonide 1 week prior to photodynamic therapy or those treated with intravitreal triamcinolone acetonide on the same day as photodynamic therapy.