bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Dissecting innate immunity by germline mutagenesis
Authors: Rutschmann Sophie , Hoebe Kasper 
Published: February 2008

SummaryThe innate arm of our immune system is the first line of defence against infections. In addition, it is believed to drive adaptive immune responses, which help fight pathogens and provide long‐term memory. As such, the innate immune system is instrumental for protection against pathogens that would otherwise destroy their host. Although our understanding of the innate immune components involved in pathogen sensing and fighting is improving, it is still limited. This is particularly exemplified by increased documentation of innate immune deficiencies in humans that often result in high and recurrent susceptibility to infections or even death, without the genetic cause being evident. To provide further insight into the mechanisms by which pathogen sensing and eradication occur, several strategies can be used. The current review focuses on the forward genetic approaches that have been used to dissect innate immunity in the fruit fly and the mouse. For both animal models, forward genetics has been instrumental in the deciphering of innate immunity and has greatly improved our understanding of how we respond to invading pathogens.
Characterization of immune functions in TRAF4‐deficient mice
Authors: Cherfils‐Vicini Julien , Vingert Benoit , Varin Audrey , Tartour Eric , Fridman Wolf‐Herman , Sautès‐Fridman Catherine , Régnier Catherine H. , Cremer Isabelle 
Published: February 2008

SummaryTumour necrosis factor receptor associated factor 4 (TRAF4) is a member of the TRAF family of proteins which are cytoplasmic adaptor molecules strongly implicated in multiple immune functions. A previous investigation of TRAF4 biological functions by gene targeting in mice has shown a role for TRAF4 in embryonic development and neurulation in vivo. However, unlike other TRAF family members, the role of TRAF4 in the immune system is still unknown. To address this question, we performed an extensive characterization of the immune development and immune functions of TRAF4‐deficient mice. Our analyses did not reveal any defects in development of T and B lymphocytes, granulocytes, macrophages and dendritic cells, and no defects in reactive oxygen species production and phagocytosis by neutrophils. Cellular and humoral responses against T‐cell‐dependent antigens were normal, as was dendritic cell maturation in response to microbial components and antigen uptake by dendritic cells. However, we demonstrated that dendritic cells from TRAF4‐deficient mice exhibited reduced migration both in transwell experiments and in vivo. These results suggest that TRAF4 is not strictly required for immune development and functions but could participate in immune functions by facilitating immune cell migration.
Developing a dynamic project learning and cross‐project learning capability: synthesizing two perspectives
Authors: Newell Sue , Edelman Linda F. 
Published: February 2008

AbstractDriven by the complexity of new products and services, project work has become increasingly common in all types of organizations. However, research on project learning suggests that often project teams do not meet their stated objectives and, moreover, there is limited organizational learning from the experiences of project work. We use the dynamic capabilities framework to argue that building a dynamic project learning capability is useful for organizations that make extensive use of projects. We use both survey and interview data to discuss the key ways in which such a dynamic capability can be built. Our survey data demonstrate the importance of documenting project learning, but our interview data show that teams are often remiss at documenting their learning. The results from the two different approaches are synthesized using Boland & Tenkasi’s notions of perspective‐making and perspective‐taking. Importantly, combining the results from the two sets of data suggests that organizations need to emphasize the benefits from project reviews and documentation and explore ways in which the documents produced can be made more useful as boundary objects to encourage the sharing of learning across projects.
Knowledge transfer in globally distributed teams: the role of transactive memory
Authors: Oshri Ilan , Van Fenema Paul , Kotlarsky Julia 
Published: February 2008

AbstractThis paper explores the role of transactive memory in enabling knowledge transfer between globally distributed teams. While the information systems literature has recently acknowledged the role transactive memory plays in improving knowledge processes and performance in colocated teams, little is known about its contribution to distributed teams. To contribute to filling this gap, knowledge‐transfer challenges and processes between onsite and offshore teams were studied at TATA Consultancy Services. In particular, the paper describes the transfer of knowledge between onsite and offshore teams through encoding, storing and retrieving processes. An in‐depth case study of globally distributed software development projects was carried out, and a qualitative, interpretive approach was adopted. The analysis of the case suggests that in order to overcome differences derived from the local contexts of the onsite and offshore teams (e.g. different work routines, methodologies and skills), some specific mechanisms supporting the development of codified and personalized ‘directories’ were introduced. These include the standardization of templates and methodologies across the remote sites as well as frequent teleconferencing sessions and occasional short visits. These mechanisms contributed to the development of the notion of ‘who knows what’ across onsite and offshore teams despite the challenges associated with globally distributed teams, and supported the transfer of knowledge between onsite and offshore teams. The paper concludes by offering theoretical and practical implications.
Exploring the effects of trust, task interdependence and virtualness on knowledge sharing in teams
Authors: Staples D. Sandy , Webster Jane 
Published: February 2008

AbstractThe sharing of knowledge within teams is critical to team functioning. However, working with team members who are in different locations (i.e. in virtual teams) may introduce communication challenges and reduce opportunities for rich interactions, potentially affecting knowledge sharing and its outcomes. Therefore, using questionnaire‐based data, this study examined the potential effects of different aspects of virtuality on a knowledge‐sharing model. Social exchange theory was used to develop a model relating trust to knowledge sharing and knowledge sharing to team effectiveness. The moderating effects of virtuality and task interdependence on these relationships were examined. A strong positive relationship was found between trust and knowledge sharing for all types of teams (local, hybrid and distributed), but the relationship was stronger when task interdependence was low, supporting the position that trust is more critical in weak structural situations. Knowledge sharing was positively associated with team effectiveness outcomes; however, this relationship was moderated by team imbalance and hybrid structures, such that the relationship between sharing and effectiveness was weaker. Organizations should therefore avoid creating unbalanced or hybrid virtual teams.
Multi‐contextuality in boundary‐spanning practices
Authors: Lindgren Rikard , Andersson Magnus , Henfridsson Ola 
Published: February 2008

AbstractThe capability to establish boundary‐spanning practices within and across organizations has for long been recognized as a key strategic resource. As organizations are becoming distributed and dynamic, they will be increasingly populated by multiple functional, geographical, hierarchical and professional boundaries. The inherent complexity of such settings makes it difficult for organizations to leverage their boundary‐spanning practices. Information technology (IT) systems have been hailed as a critical enabler of boundary spanning. However, there is little knowledge on how organizations are affected by the introduction of different types of IT systems. Building on an interpretive case study of Swedish transport organizations, this paper explores consequences of sensor technology for boundary spanning. The paper contributes with an understanding of what coexisting use contexts mean for boundary‐spanning practices. A theoretical implication is that such multi‐contextuality requires an integrative view on boundary spanning that combines insights from the organizational innovation and work practice literatures.
Dental caries experience and association to risk indicators of remote rural populations
Authors: COOK SEAN L. , MARTINEZ‐MIER E. ANGELES , DEAN JEFFREY A. , WEDDELL JAMES A. , SANDERS BRIAN J. , EGGERTSSON HAFSTEINN , OFNER SUSAN , YODER KAREN 
Published: February 2008

Background.  Dental caries continues to be the most common infectious disease of childhood; however, it is no longer pandemic, but endemic in specific sectors of populations. Therefore, it is important to identify and target patients at risk of developing caries in order to develop specific preventive measures.Aim.  This study aims to test dental caries risk indicators for significant associations with caries severity.Design.  Five separate, small, isolated rural villages in Mexico with varying degrees of caries prevalence were selected for this observational study. A total of 248 children were examined. Risk indicators were assessed via questionnaire and water and salt fluoride analysis. Caries severity was measured by the International Caries Detection and Assessment System (ICDAS‐I).Results.  Prevalence of caries ranged from 95% to 100% for the five villages. Mean total DMFS (decayed, missing, or filled surfaces–permanent teeth) and dmfs (decayed, missing, or filled surfaces–primary teeth) scores ranged from 2.5 to 5.0 and from 11.3 to 16.9, respectively. Multivariable models showed age and drinking soda between meals to be significantly associated with DMFS, and drinking juice and being female were significantly associated with dmfs.Conclusion.  DMFS and dmfs were high in each village, significantly different between villages, and associated with specific risk indicators.
Comparison of two methods of dental age estimation in 7–15‐year‐old Malays
Authors: MANI SHANI ANN , NAING LIN , JOHN JACOB , SAMSUDIN ABDUL RANI 
Published: February 2008

Background. Numerous methods of age estimation have been proposed. The Demirjian method is the most frequently used, which was first applied in a French Canadian population in 1973. The Willems method is a modification of the above and was applied in a Belgian population in 2002.Objectives.  The objectives of this study were to test the applicability of the two methods, namely Demirjian and Willems, for age estimation in a Malay population, and to find the correlation between body mass index and the difference between the dental age and the chronological age.Materials and Methods.  A cross‐sectional study involving 214 boys and 214 girls, selected by a simple stratified random sampling method was carried out. The orthopantomograph was used to score the seven left mandibular teeth, and the calculated maturity score was used to obtain the Demirjian dental age. Willems dental age was estimated using the tables proposed in the Willems method.Results.  The Demirjian method overestimated the age by 0.75 and 0.61 years, while the Willems method overestimated the age by 0.55 and 0.41 years among boys and girls, respectively. In boys, the body mass index was significantly correlated to the difference in age using the Willems method.Conclusion.  Further modification of either method is indicated for dental age estimation among the Malay population.
Reliability and validity of the Greek version of the Children's Fear Survey Schedule–Dental Subscale
Authors: ARAPOSTATHIS KONSTANTINOS N. , COOLIDGE TRILBY , EMMANOUIL DIMITRIS , KOTSANOS NIKOLAOS 
Published: February 2008

Background. The Children's Fear Survey Schedule–Dental Subscale (CFSS–DS) is a commonly used questionnaire which measures children's dental fear.Objective. The aim of this study was to gather data to evaluate the psychometric properties of a Greek version of the CFSS–DS.Methods. A sample of 260 children aged 4–12 completed the Greek version of the CFSS–DS while in the waiting room of a paediatric dentist. The dentist, who was unaware of the children's scores, rated the children's behaviour during the dental appointment using the Frankl scale. Children who returned for a second dental appointment during the study period completed the CFSS–DS a second time.Results. The mean CFSS–DS score was 24.80 (standard deviation = 9.17). Age and gender were not related to mean scores. Invasiveness of dental treatment was not related to mean scores. Children who were most uncooperative/fearful on the Frankl had the highest mean scores (Kruskal–Wallis χ2 = 9.48; d.f. = 2;P = 0.009). The internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha) was 0.85, and the test–retest reliability (intraclass correlation) was 0.74.Conclusions. The Greek version of the CFSS–DS appears to be reliable and valid. Further samples should include school samples, to include children who may not go to the dentist.
ORIGINAL ARTICLE: A general dynamic theory of oceanic island biogeography
Authors: Whittaker Robert J. , Triantis Kostas A. , Ladle Richard J. 
Published: February 2008

AbstractAim MacArthur and Wilson’s dynamic equilibrium model of island biogeography provides a powerful framework for understanding the ecological processes acting on insular populations. However, their model is known to be less successful when applied to systems and processes operating on evolutionary and geological timescales. Here, we present a general dynamic model (GDM) of oceanic island biogeography that aims to provide a general explanation of biodiversity patterns through describing the relationships between fundamental biogeographical processes – speciation, immigration, extinction – through time and in relation to island ontogeny.Location Analyses are presented for the Azores, Canaries, Galápagos, Marquesas and Hawaii.Methods We develop a theoretical argument from first principles using a series of graphical models to convey key properties and mechanisms involved in the GDM. Based on the premises (1) that emergent properties of island biotas are a function of rates of immigration, speciation and extinction, (2) that evolutionary dynamics predominate in large, remote islands, and (3) that oceanic islands are relatively short‐lived landmasses showing a characteristic humped trend in carrying capacity (via island area, topographic variation, etc.) over their life span, we derive a series of predictions concerning biotic properties of oceanic islands. We test a subset of these predictions using regression analyses based largely on data sets for native species and single‐island endemics (SIEs) for particular taxa from each archipelago, and using maximum island age estimates from the literature. The empirical analyses test the power of a simple model of diversity derived from the GDM: the log(Area) + Time + Time2model (ATT2), relative to other simpler time and area models, using several diversity metrics.Results The ATT2model provides a more satisfactory explanation than the alternative models evaluated (for example the standard diversity–area models) in that it fits a higher proportion of the data sets tested, although it is not always the most parsimonious solution.Main conclusions The theoretical model developed herein is based on the key dynamic biological processes (migration, speciation, extinction) combined with a simple but general representation of the life cycle of oceanic islands, providing a framework for explaining patterns of biodiversity, endemism and diversification on a range of oceanic archipelagos. The properties and predictions derived from the model are shown to be broadly supported (1) by the empirical analyses presented, and (2) with reference to previous phylogenetic, ecological and geological studies.
Cost‐effectiveness analysis of triple test in second‐trimester maternal serum screening for Down’s syndrome: an experience from Taiwan with decreasing birth rate but increasing population of old pregnant women
Authors: Hwa Hsiao‐Lin , Yen Ming‐Fang , Lin Chen‐Li , Ko Tsang‐Ming , Hsieh Fon‐Jou , Chen Tony Hsiu‐Hsi 
Published: February 2008

AbstractObjectives  We intended to assess the cost‐effectiveness of adding unconjugated oestriol (uE3) in maternal serum screening for Down’s syndrome in Taiwan, where there is a decreasing birth rate but an increasing trend of old women having pregnancies.Methods  We used logistic regressions to estimate the risk of Down’s syndrome with maternal age and different combinations of biomarkers. Cost‐effectiveness analysis was presented in terms of the average and incremental cost‐effectiveness ratios. Sensitivity analyses with different parameters were performed.Results  Given a cut‐off point of 1:270 for the confirmation of Down’s syndrome with amniocentesis, the average cost per case averted for maternal age above 35 years only, double test [alpha‐fetoprotein (AFP) and human chorionic gonadotrophin (hCG)] and triple test (AFP, hCG and uE3) were estimated as $14 561, $42 367 and $37 424. The additional costs per case averted for double test and triple test (compared with maternal age above 35 years) were $135 950 and $77 394, respectively. The additional cost per case averted for triple test was $15 199 compared with double test.Conclusions  The performance of triple test is not only more effective in detecting Down’s syndrome cases but also more cost‐effective than double test in this study.
Natural history and effectiveness of early detection of Parkinson’s disease: results from two community‐based programmes in Taiwan (KCIS no. 11)
Authors: Liou Horng‐Huei , Wu Chia‐Yun , Chiu Yueh‐Hsia , Yen Amy Ming‐Fang , Chen Rong‐Chi , Chen Ta‐Fu , Chen Chih‐Chuan , Hwang Yuarn‐Chung , Wen Ying‐Rong , Chen Tony Hsiu‐Hsi 
Published: February 2008

AbstractObjectives  The natural course of Parkinson’s disease (PD), as measured on the Hoehn‐Yahr (H‐Y) scale, and the impact that early detection would have on prognosis for those with the disease, has barely been addressed since the introduction of L‐dopa. This study aimed to elucidate the natural history of PD and effectiveness of early detection in reducing advanced disability and mortality.Method  A total of 21 362 participants aged 40 years or older were invited to two community‐based programmes for the early detection of PD. The step‐by‐step annual progression rates from H‐Y stage I to stage IV or V, and cumulative survival rates, by the H‐Y scale, were estimated and applied to simulated data to assess the impact of different screening intervals upon stage at diagnosis and subsequent survival.Results  The average duration in stages I, II and III was estimated as 2.83, 6.62 and 1.41 years, respectively. The average delay time before deteriorating into H‐Y stage III was 9.45 year. Application of these parameters to simulated model predicted a 36% (95% CI: 28–39%), 26% (95% CI: 20–32%) and 19% (95% CI: 13–24%) reduction in death for annual, 5‐yearly and 10‐yearly screening programmes, respectively.Conclusion  The present study recommended a 5‐yearly screening programme, with 74% of PD cases prevented from progressing to H‐Y stage III or worse within 10 years of diagnosis, and leading to a corresponding 26% reduction in mortality.
Prevalence of self‐reported risk factors for medication misadventure among older people in general practice
Authors: Pit Sabrina W. , Byles Julie E. , Cockburn Jill 
Published: February 2008

AbstractObjective  To describe the prevalence of risk factors for medication misadventures among older people in general practice.Design  Descriptive cross‐sectional analysis.Setting  General practices, New South Wales, Australia.Participants  Twenty general practitioners in 16 practices recruited 849 practice attendees aged 65 years and over.Outcome measure  Risk factors for medication misadventures.Results  Almost all participants (95%) had used at least one medication for more than 6 months. More than half of the participants had more than one doctor involved in their care (59%), had three or more health conditions (57%), or used five or more medicines (54%). With regard to potential adverse drug reactions, in the last month 39% of participants experienced difficulties sleeping, one‐third felt drowsy or dizzy (34%), and about a quarter had a skin rash (28%), leaked urine (27%), had stomach problems (22%) or had been constipated (22%). The most common compliance problems were experiencing side effects (14%) and having difficulties opening bottles or packets/applying the medicine (10%).Conclusion  Risk factors for medication misadventure remain a substantial problem among older people. A Medication Risk Assessment Form completed by patients can be used as an aid to increase general practitioners’ awareness of a variety of problem areas associated with medication use in a compact way, and could be used as part of a system for medication review to determine whether actions are required to improve quality use of medicines.
The effect of lack of insurance, poverty and paediatrician supply on immunization rates among children 19–35 months of age in the United States
Authors: Becton James L. , Cheng Lee , Nieman Linda Z. 
Published: February 2008

AbstractRational, aims and objectives  Previous studies found that the increasing number of paediatricians in the United States was associated with improved childhood immunization coverage, while the increasing poverty level and the lack of health insurance reduced access to health care. We evaluated whether changes in the number of paediatricians, poverty level and health insurance affected national childhood immunization coverage in the state levels of the United States.Methods  Data were collected primarily from the US National Immunization Surveys, series 4:3:1:3:3 from years 1995 and 2003. Ordinal logistic regression analysis was used to analyse the relationships among variables.Results  Over 8 years studied, immunization coverage increased for children aged 19–35 months from 52.3% to 79.8% in the 50 states. The average number of paediatricians per 1000 births increased 28.7% while the percentage of children without health insurance declined 15.6%, and the percentage of children who lived in poverty level declined 17.3%. In 1995, the states with higher immunization coverage were associated with higher numbers of paediatricians [odds ratio (OR), 32.73; 95% confidence interval (CI), 5.96–179.77]. In 2003, the higher numbers of paediatricians still played a role in the increased immunization coverage (OR, 4.69; 95% CI, 1.01–21.78); however, the higher rate of uninsured children in 2003 had an even greater effect upon immunization coverage. Compared with states with lower rates of uninsured children, states with intermediate and higher rates of uninsured children had sixfold (OR, 0.16; 95% CI, 0.03–0.81) and 16‐fold (OR, 0.06; 95% CI, 0.01–0.40) decreased childhood immunization coverage, respectively.Conclusion  Between 1995 and 2003 in the United States, the lack of health insurance became more prominent than the supply of paediatricians in affecting immunization coverage for children aged 19–35 months. Future improvements in insurance coverage for children will likely lead to greater immunization coverage.