bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The UCLan community engagement and service user support (Comensus) project: valuing authenticity, making space for emergence
Authors: Downe Soo , McKeown Mick , Johnson Eileen ,   Comensus Community Involvement Team,   Comensus Advisory Group, Koloczek Lidia , Grunwald Angela , Malihi‐Shoja Lisa 
Published: September 2007

AbstractObjective  To develop and evaluate service user, carer and community involvement in health and social care education.Background  Despite the high policy profile of involvement issues, there appear to be no published accounts of schemes that have used a systematic whole‐faculty approach to community engagement in health and social care higher education.Focus of this paper  The set up and early development of a faculty‐wide community engagement project.Setting and participants  Staff from the faculty of health in one University, local service users and carers and community group project workers and local National Health Service (NHS) and public sector staff.Design  Participatory action research including document review, field notes, questionnaires and interviews.Analysis  Thematic analysis. The emerging themes were tested by seeking disconfirming data, and through verification with stake‐holders.Results  Prior to the study, there were examples of community engagement in the participating faculty, but they occurred in specific departments, and scored low on the ‘ladder of involvement’. Some previous attempts at engagement were perceived to have failed, resulting in resistance from staff and the community. Despite this, an advisory group was successfully formed, and project framing and development evolved with all stake‐holders over the subsequent year. The four themes identified in this phase were: building accessibility; being ‘proper’ service users/carers;moving from suspicion to trust: mutually respectful partnerships as a basis for sustainable change; and responses to challenge and emergence.Conclusions  Successful and sustainable engagement requires authenticity. Many problems and solutions arising from authentic engagement are emergent, and potentially challenging to organizations.
The immunoinformatics of cancer immunotherapy
Authors: DeLuca D. S. , Blasczyk R. 
Published: September 2007

AbstractWe review here the developments in the field of immunoinformatics and their present and potential applications to the immunotherapeutic treatment of cancer. Antigen presentation plays a central role in the immune response, and as a result in immunotherapeutic methods such as adoptive T‐cell transfer and antitumor vaccination. We therefore extensively review the current technologies of antigen presentation prediction, including the next generation predictors, which combine proteasomal processing, transporter associated with antigen processing and major histocompatibility complex (MHC)‐binding prediction. Minor histocompatibility antigens are also relevant targets for immunotherapy, and we review the current systems available, SNEP and SiPep. Here, antigen presentation plays a key role, but additional types of data are also incorporated, such as single nucleotide polymorphism data and tissue/cell‐type expression data. Current systems are not capable of handling the concept of immunodominance, which is critical to immunotherapy, but efforts have been made to model general aspects of the immune system. Although tough challenges lie ahead, when measuring the field of immunoinformatics on its contributions thus far, one can expect fruitful developments in the future.
The nature of diversity of HLA‐DRB1 exon 3
Authors: Horn P. A. , Albis‐Camps M. , Verboom M. , Bunce M. , Yousaf K. , Williams S. , Blasczyk R. 
Published: September 2007

AbstractExon 3 of DRB1 is known to be polymorphic, but thought to be conserved within allelic groups. This implies that exon 3 polymorphisms would not need to be considered in evolutionary studies or clinical settings when assessing immunogenicity of allelic mismatches in stem cell transplantation. To further assess this, we determined the sequences of DRB1 exon 3 by hemizygote amplification and direct sequencing on 55 selected DNA samples containing 42 DRB1 alleles for which no exon 3 sequence data were previously available. The data confirmed the high degree of overall sequence conservation. The DRB4‐ and DRB5‐associated alleles were completely conserved within their DRB1 groups. However, it could be shown that exon 3 is more diverse than previously expected. Multiple allelic differences within each group of DRB3‐associated DRB1 alleles were found, without identifying unique group‐related sequence motifs differentiating between these groups. For DRB1*1402 and DRB1*1406, it could be shown that they originated from DRB1*0302. In several samples previously typed as DRB1*1401, a novel DRB1 allele was identified: DRB1*1454. Thus, from a clinical viewpoint, the availability of exon 3 sequence information may be useful for optimizing typing as well as matching strategies. Additionally, it will allow for more detailed evolutionary studies, further elucidating the origin of alleles and the mechanisms driving sequence diversification.
Bioinformatic integration of biomechanics makes HLA sequencing universally applicable
Authors: Verboom M. , Hallensleben M. , Horn P. A. , Blasczyk R. 
Published: September 2007

AbstractSequencing provides the most reliable and accurate information of the sequence of a gene and is therefore of particular interest for fully characterizing the genetic complexity and allelic diversity of human leukocyte antigens (HLA) genes. This complexity makes sequencing the method of choice for HLA low‐ and high‐resolution typing. However, sequencing is considered a complex process, which requires the management of an overwhelming amount of data. However, only sequencing can be used as a sole typing technique without the need of supplementation by other typing techniques; it offers additional advantages by providing results in electronic formats and by being fully automatable. This makes sequencing the best candidate for bioinformatic and biomechanic integration to maintain the benefits and discard the drawbacks. We have, therefore, developed robotic platforms and a bioinformatic tool allowing complete documentation, interpretation and processing of all amplification and sequencing steps as well as the full integration of all instruments involved. It was shown that this integrative approach allows sequencing to run fully automated for low‐ and high‐resolution typing on each throughput level desired. This integration of robotics and software secures the traceability of each specimen at each step of the process and minimizes the risk of contamination and sample mix‐up.
Pediatric liver transplantation: Review of literature 2005–2006
Authors: Mazariegos George V. , Machaidze Zurab 
Published: September 2007

Abstract: Recent published literature in pediatric liver transplantation continues to demonstrate the unique areas that distinguish pediatric liver transplantation from the adult discipline. Published accounts of disease states leading to pediatric transplantation, outcome analysis, reviews of immunosuppressive drug trials, technical progress, organ allocation and policy all highlight unique aspects of pediatric care. We have chosen significant contributions from the several hundred scientific articles related to clinical pediatric liver transplantation published from August 2005 through December 2006 and summarized them for the reader. When appropriate, comments synthesizing common threads across one or more manuscripts were included and the reader is urged to refer to the actual manuscript for more in depth understanding. Nonetheless, we anticipate this review will serve as a suitable introduction to the most significant areas affecting care for children who await or undergo liver transplantation.
Successful HLA‐identical hematopoietic stem cell transplantation in a patient with purine nucleoside phosphorylase deficiency
Authors: Delicou Sophia , Kitra‐Roussou Vassiliki , Peristeri Julia , Goussetis Eugenios , Vessalas George , Rigatou Eftymia , Psychou Fotini , Salavoura Katerina , Grafakos Stelios 
Published: September 2007

Abstract: PNP deficiency is an autosomal recessive metabolic disorder characterized by severe combined immunodeficiency, autoimmune hemolytic anemia, and by a complex of neurologic manifestations including ataxia, developmental delay, and spasticity. PNP protein catalyzes the phosphorolysis of deoxyinosine and deoxyguanosine. It is found in most tissues of the body but is expressed at the highest levels in lymphoid tissues. This tissue distribution explains why the lymphoid system is predominantly affected in PNP deficiency. We describe a five‐yr‐old boy with muscular hypertonia, impaired growth, autoimmune hemolytic anemia, and neutropenia who underwent HSCT from his HLA‐identical sister. One yr post‐HSCT, the boy developed normal immunological functions, and his neurological status improved.
Human adipose tissue‐derived mesenchymal stromal cells as salvage therapy for treatment of severe refractory acute graft‐vs.‐host disease in two children
Authors: Fang Baijun , Song Yongping , Lin Quande , Zhang Yanli , Cao Ying , Zhao Robert Chunhua , Ma Yuanfang 
Published: September 2007

Abstract:  Severe GVHD is a lethal complication to ASCT, and a number of approaches are therefore being evaluated. Recently, Le Blanc et al. reported a case of grade IV therapy‐resistant acute GVHD of the gut and liver that showed rapid improvement after infusion of mesenchymal stem cells. Here we describe two pediatric patients who developed severe refractory acute GVHD following ASCT and were successfully treated with AMSC from HLA‐mismatched unrelated donors.
Hyperacute graft‐vs.‐host disease after related HLA‐identical umbilical cord blood transplantation
Authors: Kuskonmaz Baris , Gocer Safak , Ersoy‐Ewans Sibel , Cetin Ozman Fatma , Cetin Mualla , Uckan Duygu 
Published: September 2007

Abstract: haGVHD has been described following bone marrow and peripheral blood stem cell transplantation and in a single case who received unrelated HLA mismatched CB. An unusual case of haGVHD following HLA 6/6‐matched sibling CBT in a child with AML is presented. The development of haGVHD in a fully matched CBT and without precipitating factors may suggest the role of still undefined and perhaps individual contributory factors.
Human parvovirus PARV4 in clotting factor VIII concentrates
Authors: Fryer J. F. , Hubbard A. R. , Baylis S. A. 
Published: September 2007

Background and Objectives  Parvoviruses are small non‐enveloped DNA viruses, relatively resistant to virus inactivation procedures. The recently identified human parvovirus PARV4, including a related genotype 2 virus (also termed PARV5), has been found to be a contaminant of pooled plasma used in the manufacture of plasma‐derived products. This report describes an investigation to determine whether PARV4 is present in clotting factor concentrates.Materials and Methods  Factor VIII concentrates manufactured in the past 30–35 years were screened for PARV4 and human parvovirus B19 (B19V) sequences. Viral loads in products testing positive for PARV4 were quantified using a consensus TaqMan assay designed to a highly conserved region. DNA sequence analysis was performed to confirm the genotypes present.Results  From a total of 175 lots of factor VIII concentrate, 28 of these contained PARV4 sequences, and in two lots both genotypes 1 and 2 were found to be present. The highest viral loads observed exceeded 105 copies per ml. The majority of factor VIII concentrates testing positive for PARV4 were manufactured in the 1970s and 1980s. Human B19V was also a frequent contaminant of these products.Conclusions  PARV4 was detected in 16% of factor VIII concentrates, particularly in older batches from the 1970s and 1980s. The significance in terms of the viral safety and potential transmission to recipients of these products is not yet known.
Effects of Filtration of Semen Doses from Subfertile Boars through Neuter Sephadex Columns
Authors: Bussalleu E , Pinart E , Rivera MM , Arias X , Briz M , Sancho S , García‐Gil N , Bassols J , Pruneda A , Yeste M , Casas I , Rigau T , Rodriguez‐Gil JE , Bonet S 
Published: September 2007

ContentsThis study was designed to develop a method of improving the quality of sperm obtained from subfertile Piétrain boars. Seminal doses were filtered through neuter SephadexTM columns (G‐25 Medium, G‐50 Fine, G‐50 Medium and G‐75, length 10 ± 0.5 cm, flow rate 1 ml/20 s). Doses were prepared by pooling 10 ml semen samples collected from 58 asthenoteratospermic boars and diluted the sperm‐cell rich fraction 1 : 6 in Betsville thawing solution extender. Sperm quality was determined before and after the filtering process. Sperm morphology and motility were assessed using the computer program sca®2002 production, and sperm vitality was evaluated by fluorescence multistaining. ORT and HRT tests were used to determine the osmotic resistance of spermatozoa, and metabolic performance was assessed by measuring l‐lactate production. Results indicate that the filtration process rendered increased proportions of mature spermatozoa and of viable spermatozoa with an intact acrosome, nucleus and mitochondrial sheath. Sperm filtration led to decreased percentages of spermatozoa with proximal and distal droplets and of agglutinated spermatozoa, along with slightly diminished ORT values. HRT scores and l‐lactate production were unaffected. Our findings indicate that filtering through a Sephadex column improves the sperm morphology and vitality of seminal doses obtained from subfertile boars, but produces no functional changes in the spermatozoa. All four column types yielded similar results.
Informing rural and remote students about careers in health: Factors influencing career decisions
Authors: Buikstra Elizabeth , Eley Robert M. , Hindmarsh Natalie 
Published: September 2007

AbstractObjective:  Since 1994 a state‐wide program has been operating in Queensland to provide non‐metropolitan secondary school students with information about health careers. Determination of the factors influencing the career decisions of rural and remote students was one objective of the evaluation of that program. Design:  Telephone interviews. Setting:  Secondary schools. Subjects:  People who had previously attended Year 10 residential health career workshops run by Queensland Health. Ninety‐four of 277 past participants to Year 10 Health Careers Workshops responded to a postal questionnaire and were invited to take part in a telephone questionnaire to collect further information related to the course and career choices. Main outcome measures:  Self‐reported factors affecting career decisions of students from rural and remote areas. Results:  Of the 94 past workshop participants, interviews were held with 70. All participants had left secondary education and had either undertaken or were undertaking some form of tertiary study. The most influential of nine factors to both undergraduate and postgraduate course choices was self‐interest. Various other factors differentially contributed to undergraduate and postgraduate course choices among them were the health careers workshops, which played a major influence on undergraduate course decisions of students. Conclusion:  Self‐interest is the largest self‐reported factor to career decision making among students from rural and remote areas. Finance and career advice from school are not considered to be highly influential. However, these independent decisions can be substantially influenced by external information provided through health career workshops.
Where do I go from here: We've got enough seniors?
Authors: Gillham Selena , Ristevski Eli 
Published: September 2007

AbstractObjective:  To identify recruitment and retention issues for allied health professionals at two rural health services. Design:  A qualitative study using semi‐structured interviews was used to collect the data which were analysed using thematic analysis. Setting:  A regional public health service and a community health service in central eastern Victoria, Australia. Participants:  Eight final‐year allied health students, 7 allied health or discipline managers, 18 current allied health staff and 10 former allied health staff participated in the interviews. Participants' professional backgrounds included: dentistry, dietetics, occupational therapy, physiotherapy, psychology, social work and speech pathology. Main outcome measures:  Recruitment and retention themes identified from the interview transcripts. Results:  Career opportunities and social and community connections were significant for both recruitment and retention of all the participant groups. Financial incentives were important for recruiting staff, while organisational management and policy were important for retaining staff. Health service resources were a specific issue for the recruitment of dentists, but were found to be a significant factor in the retention of all allied health staff. Conclusion:  A number of strategies can be used by health care organisations in rural areas to recruit staff, including: career progression, mentoring and profession development, connecting people with social networks and providing financial remuneration. To maximise staff retention, it is important to ensure that there are career progression pathways within the organisation, and that organisational management and policy provides support and opportunities for staff. Staff also need to be included as part of a social network in the community.
Diabetes risk factors, diabetes and diabetes care in a rural Australian community
Authors: Simmons David , Bourke Lisa , Yau Edward , Hoodless Mary 
Published: September 2007

AbstractObjective:  To comprehensively describe diabetes‐related risk factors, quality of care and patient‐perceived barriers to care in a rural community. Design:  Cross‐sectional mail study, self‐completed survey and retrospective chart review. Setting:  Community and health services in Corryong, rural Victoria, Australia. Participants:  Ninety‐seven patients with diabetes and 495 with other diseases in the mail study, 84 with diabetes in the self‐completed survey and 101 diabetic patient chart reviews. Main outcome measures:  Self‐reported lifestyle activities, uptake of health checks, metabolic measures and uptake of medication, and self‐reported barriers to diabetes care. Results:  Most residents without diabetes had recently had their blood pressure and cholesterol checked; 60.4% were trying to control their weight and 73.9% were exercising regularly (although only 30.7% to an adequate level). Those with diabetes reported a greater uptake of healthy living messages, and had a mean HbA1c of 7.3%, total cholesterol of 5.0 mmol L

−1

; 12.9% had a diastolic blood pressure ≥85 mmHg. Foot checks were infrequent (18%). There was substantial room to increase antiplatelet, blood pressure, antihyperglycaemia and lipid‐lowering therapy. Most patients reported psychological (84.5%) and educational (82.1%) barriers to care, with few perceiving physical barriers to care.Conclusion:  Living in a rural area with predominantly GP care can be associated with comparatively good metabolic control, although psycho‐educational barriers are frequently present. In the wider community, risk factors for diabetes remain common, and the majority have been screened for components of the metabolic syndrome in the previous year.
Improving access to and outcomes from mental health care in rural Australia
Authors: Morley Belinda , Pirkis Jane , Naccarella Lucio , Kohn Fay , Blashki Grant , Burgess Philip 
Published: September 2007

AbstractObjective:  Rural Australians face particular difficulties in accessing mental health care. This paper explores whether 51 rural Access to Allied Psychological Services projects, funded under the Better Outcomes in Mental Health Care program, are improving such access, and, if so, whether this is translating to positive consumer outcomes. Design and method:  The paper draws on three data sources (a survey of models of service delivery, a minimum dataset and three case studies) to examine the operation and achievements of these projects, and makes comparisons with their 57 urban equivalents as relevant. Results:  Proportionally, uptake of the projects in rural areas has been higher than in urban areas: more GPs and allied health professionals are involved, and more consumers have received care. There is also evidence that the models of service delivery used in these projects have specifically been designed to resolve issues particular to rural areas, such as difficulties recruiting and retaining providers. The projects are being delivered at no or low cost to consumers, and are achieving positive outcomes as assessed by standardised measures. Conclusion:  The findings suggest that the rural projects have the potential to improve access to mental health care for rural residents with depression and anxiety, by enabling GPs to refer them to allied health professionals. The findings are discussed with reference to recent reforms to mental health care delivery in Australia.
Self‐reported confidence and skills of general practitioners in management of mental health disorders
Authors: Browne Mark Oakley , Lee Adeline , Prabhu Radha 
Published: September 2007

AbstractObjective:  To identify the predictors of self‐reported confidence and skills of GPs in management of patients with mental health problems. Design:  Cross‐sectional survey, with questionnaire presented to 246 GPs working in 62 practices throughout Gippsland. Setting:  Rural general practices in Gippsland. Participants:  One hundred and thirty‐four GPs across Gippsland. Main outcome measures:  GPs completed a questionnaire assessing self‐perception of knowledge and skills in recognition and management of common mental health problems. Results:  Of 134 GPs, 45% reported that they have a specific interest in mental health, and 39% of GPs reported that they had previous mental health training. Only 22% of GPs describe having both an interest and prior training in mental health care. Age and years since graduation are not significantly related to self‐reported confidence and skills. Conclusions:  The results of this study highlight that self‐professed interest and prior training in mental health are associated. Self‐professed interest in mental health care predicts confidence and self‐perceived skills in recognition, assessment and management of common mental health disorders. Similarly, prior training in mental health care predicts confidence and self‐perceived skills in recognition, assessment and management of common mental health problems. Self‐professed interest in mental health issues is also associated with hours of participation in continuing medical education related to mental health care. Unfortunately, only a minority described having both interest and prior training in mental health care.