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Oligonucleotide microarrays in microbial diagnostics.

Oligonucleotide microarrays offer a fast, high-throughput alternative for the parallel detection of microbes from virtually any sample. The application potential spreads across most sectors of life sciences, including environmental microbiology and microbial ecology; human, veterinary, food and plant diagnostics; water quality control; industrial microbiology, and so on. The past two years have witnessed a rapid increase of research in this field. Many alternative techniques were developed and validated as seen in 'proof-of-concept' articles. Publications reporting on the application of oligonucleotide microarray technology for microbial diagnostics in microbiology driven projects have just started to appear. Current and future technical and bioinformatics developments will inevitably improve the potential of this technology further.

Ecosystem↗

Developing a network: the PMM process.

Since 1988, the Prevention of Maternal Mortality (PMM) Network has developed, implemented and evaluated projects that focus directly on prevention of maternal deaths. The Network, which consists of 11 multidisciplinary teams in West Africa and one at Columbia University, grew from discussions between the Carnegie Corporation of New York and researchers at Columbia School of Public Health. Its goals are: to strengthen capacities in developing countries; to provide program models for preventing maternal deaths; and to inform policymakers about the importance of maternal mortality. This paper describes the development and functioning of the Network. The initial steps included identifying interested partners in Africa and encouraging them to form multidisciplinary teams. Each African team received two grants: one to perform a needs assessment and then another to develop and implement projects based on the results. The Columbia team provided technical assistance in a variety of ways, including site visits, workshops and correspondence. Teams tested program models and reported findings both to local policymakers and in international fora. Collaboration with government and community leaders helped facilitate progress at all stages. At the PMM Network Results Conference in 1996, the teams decided to continue their work by forming the Regional PMM (RPMM) Network, an entirely African entity.

Africa, Western↗

The second decade--into the third millenium.

NMR spectroscopy is one of the principal experimental techniques of structural biology, with abilities to determine atomic resolution structures as well as investigate dynamics and intermolecular interactions of biological macromolecules. There is plenty of room for continued progress of this young branch of science, based on further technical advances as well as innovative funding strategies and project organization.

Animals↗

From state eugenics to private eugenics.

Eugenics--or 'the cultivation of a race'--is a concept dating from the latter part of the 19th century. It preceded the new science of genetics by merely 25 years. Negative eugenics stressed especially the exclusion of negative characteristics and was associated with the practice and theory of radical eugenics between the two World Wars. In order to redress 'the decline of the race', reinforcement by positive eugenics was also advocated. After the atrocities committed by the Nazis there was a lull in the practice and discourse of eugenics. More recent technical advances in assisted reproduction techniques and the genome project, however, have revived the eugenics debate. State eugenics and eugenics as an individual choice ought to be distinguished.

Eugenics↗

Articulation of pre-registration nursing courses in Western Sydney.

This paper will describe a project, undertaken in 1996-1997, which sought to develop formal articulation arrangements between nursing education courses provided by Technical and Further Education (TAFE) institutions in Greater Western Sydney and the University of Western Sydney (UWS). The project sought to facilitate the access of TAFE-trained Enrolled Nurses (ENs) to UWS's Bachelor of Nursing (BN) courses and eliminate costly duplication in programs of study. Although conducted in Australia, the project generated insights of utility to colleagues in the UK, the USA and New Zealand, in particular, who are dealing with the effects of the 'knowledge explosion' and reductions in government funding to universities. The project comprised two stages. Stage 1 involved a statewide survey of all stakeholders, using individual telephone interviews and focus groups, of practices and perceptions with respect to formal articulation arrangements. The findings demonstrated an overwhelming consensus with respect to both the benefits of and barriers to formal articulation arrangements. These benefits and barriers will be described. Stage 2 involved the TAFE-UWS collaborative design and implementation of 2 EN-BN bridging programs which allow, differentially, ENs to access UWS's BN programs with 1 and 2 semesters block credit. This paper includes details of the project's background, survey methods and findings, bridging courses' contents and courses' implementation evaluative data.

Curriculum↗

The PSI Gantry 2: a second generation proton scanning gantry.

PSI is still the only location in which proton therapy is applied using a dynamic beam scanning technique on a very compact gantry. Recently, this system is also being used for the application of intensity-modulated proton therapy (IMPT). This novel technical development and the success of the proton therapy project altogether have led PSI in Year 2000 to further expand the activities in this field by launching the project PROSCAN. The first step is the installation of a dedicated commercial superconducting cyclotron of a novel type. The second step is the development of a new gantry, Gantry 2. For Gantry 2 we have chosen an iso-centric compact gantry layout. The diameter of the gantry is limited to 7.5 m, less than in other gantry systems (approximately 10-12 m). The space in the treatment room is comfortably large, and the access on a fixed floor is possible any time around the patient table. Through the availability of a faster scanning system, it will be possible to treat the target volume repeatedly in the same session. For this purpose, the dynamic control of the beam intensity at the ion source and the dynamic variation of the beam energy will be used directly for the shaping of the dose.

Cyclotrons↗

Choices and voices: participation of people with HIV on Ryan White Title II Consumer Advisory Boards.

This article presents an assessment of the functioning and training needs of consumer advisory boards in Massachusetts (CABs) who advise the Massachusetts agency and the consortia funded through Title II of the Ryan White Comprehensive AIDS Resources Emergency Act. The study found that the stage agency and the CABs valued the role of consumers in policy making, but the mechanisms for translating this goal into reality were not always clear or available. The CABs wanted more opportunities to interact with HIV/AIDS Bureau staff and with one another. The CAB members expressed need for ongoing training and technical assistance for themselves and for consortia staff. This project was an example of action research, for the purpose of change and mobilization.

Advisory Committees↗

Nipple reconstruction with the double-opposing-tab flap.

The double-opposing-tab flap, a new method of nipple reconstruction used in 50 patients to date, is described. This technique uses two dermal-fat flaps, each similar to those described by Hartrampf, but with tab extensions inspired by the skate flap of Little. The donor sites of the two flaps are closed like Burrough's triangles, bringing the flaps into opposition so that they support each other's projection. The tabs cover all the exposed fat on the nipple so that no skin graft is required on the nipple proper. The result is a nicely shaped nipple that can be designed directly over a scar, maintains a projection averaging 3.8 mm at 10 months, and is technically easy to construct.

Breast↗

Facilitators and challenges to organizational capacity building in heart health promotion.

The authors describe the facilitators and challenges to a multi-sectoral initiative aiming at building organizational capacity for heart health promotion in Nova Scotia, Canada. The research process was guided by participatory action research. The study included 21 organizations from diverse sectors. Participant selection for the data collection was purposive. The authors collected data through organizational reflection logs and one-to-one semistructured interviews and used grounded theory techniques for the data analyses. Factors influencing organizational capacity for heart health promotion varied, depending on the project stage. Nonetheless, leadership, organizational readiness, congruence, research activities, technical supports, and partnerships were essential to capacity-building efforts. Approaches to organizational capacity building should be multi-leveled, because organizations are influenced by multiple social systems that are not all equally supportive of capacity.

Cardiovascular Diseases↗

The construction and use of bacterial DNA microarrays based on an optimized two-stage PCR strategy.

BACKGROUND: DNA microarrays are a powerful tool with important applications such as global gene expression profiling. Construction of bacterial DNA microarrays from genomic sequence data using a two-stage PCR amplification approach for the production of arrayed DNA is attractive because it allows, in principal, the continued re-amplification of DNA fragments and facilitates further utilization of the DNA fragments for additional uses (e.g. over-expression of protein). We describe the successful construction and use of DNA microarrays by the two-stage amplification approach and discuss the technical challenges that were met and resolved during the project. RESULTS: Chimeric primers that contained both gene-specific and shared, universal sequence allowed the two-stage amplification of the 3,168 genes identified on the genome of Synechocystis sp. PCC6803, an important prokaryotic model organism for the study of oxygenic photosynthesis. The gene-specific component of the primer was of variable length to maintain uniform annealing temperatures during the 1st round of PCR synthesis, and situated to preserve full-length ORFs. Genes were truncated at 2 kb for efficient amplification, so that about 92% of the PCR fragments were full-length genes. The two-stage amplification had the additional advantage of normalizing the yield of PCR products and this improved the uniformity of DNA features robotically deposited onto the microarray surface. We also describe the techniques utilized to optimize hybridization conditions and signal-to-noise ratio of the transcription profile. The inter-lab transportability was demonstrated by the virtual error-free amplification of the entire genome complement of 3,168 genes using the universal primers in partner labs. The printed slides have been successfully used to identify differentially expressed genes in response to a number of environmental conditions, including salt stress. CONCLUSIONS: The technique detailed here minimizes the cost and effort to replicate a PCR-generated DNA gene fragment library and facilitates several downstream processes (e.g. directional cloning of fragments and gene expression as affinity-tagged fusion proteins) beyond the primary objective of producing DNA microarrays for global gene expression profiling.

Cyanobacteria↗

Authorship versus "credit" for participation in research: a case study of potential ethical dilemmas created by technical tools used by researchers and claims for authorship by their creators.

The distinction between authorship and other forms of credit for contribution to a publication has been a persisting controversy that has resulted in numerous guidelines outlining the expected contributions of those claiming authorship. While there have been flagrant, well-publicized deviations from widely accepted standards, they are largely outnumbered by cases that are not publicity-worthy, and therefore remain known to only those directly involved with the inappropriate conduct. We discuss the definition and ethical requirements of authorship, offer a case example of the authorship debate created by a technical tool at our institution, and review parallels that support and dispute the authorship claims of our software developers. Ultimately, we conclude that development of a technical tool that enables data collection does not adequately substitute for contributions to study design and manuscript preparation for authorship purposes. Unless the designers of such a technical tool prospectively participate as a part of the project, they would not have an adequate understanding of the publication's genesis to defend it publicly and cannot be listed as authors. Therefore, it is incumbent upon project members to invite tool developers to participate at the beginning of such projects, and for tool developers to contribute to study design and manuscript preparation when they desire authorship listings.

Authorship↗

Gonad dose in cineurethrocystography.

The technical factors used for cineurethrocystography for the true lateral projection in females are given. The midline radiation dose has been measured with LiF TLD inserted into the vagina in 19 examinations. The average dose recorded was 148 mrad, the range being 50 to 306 mrad; the average number of cine frames exposed was 96. Data obtained using a Rando phantom indicated that the average ovary dose would be 30% greater than the mid-line dose since the near ovary receives a higher dose than the more distant one. The technique used for men is also given, the average gonad dose in six men being 123 mrad, range 56 to 243 mrad when simple lead foil gonad protection was used; the average number of cine frames was 107. The dose in one man without gonad protection was 1575 mrad for 112 cine frames. The results for both sexes compare favourably with those of others reported in the literature and with gonad doses recorded in typical IVP examinations.

Cineradiography↗

[Perceptions of mental patients' sexuality by nurses].

This research aimed at identifying the social representations of nursing professionals expressed in situations in which the sexuality of mentally-ill people constitutes a visible fact in psychiatric institutions. The technical and methodological resource for data collection, based on projective procedures, was denominated Investigation Technique in Daily Situations--ITDS. This instrument consisted of sixteen boards with graphic reproductions of these professionals' daily actions, from which six were selected for the analysis of the mentally-ill person's sexuality. Seventeen nurses working in psychiatric hospitals in Ribeirão Preto composed the sample. Their discoursive manifestation showed their denials of the mentally-ill person's sexuality, which restrained it as a deviation, misbehavior and disease. By doing so, they take a distant position with repressive or defensive attitudes. This position reveals the strategy adopted in relation to such knowledge and power, following the determinations of their professional code by meeting institutional and social expectations.

Humans↗

[Assessment of left ventricular ejection fraction and wall motion in patients after myocardial infarction with and without persistent electrocardiographic ST-segment elevation--using gated radionuclide angiography].

UNLABELLED: In everyday practice two-dimensional echocardiography is a routine method used to diagnose left ventricular (LV) wall motion abnormalities and determine ejection fraction (EF). However, in some patients, for technical reasons, it is possible to apply only apical projections and EF and LV wall motion abnormalities cannot be therefore obtained. The aim of the study was to measure LV EF and wall motion abnormalities in the patients healed from MI, with and without persistent electrocardiographic ST segment elevation, in whom echocardiographic diagnosis was difficult. LV wall motion abnormalities and EF were determined using non-invasive method--gated radionuclide angiography. Gated radionuclide angiography was performed in 45 patients, 3 months after previous anterior MI. The study was acquired after technetium 99mTc red cell labeling in vivo. The data were collected using a Toshiba scintillation gamma camera with a MODUMED computer system coupled with a gating device. Patients were divided into two groups. Group I consisted of 24 patients with persistent electrocardiographic ST segment elevation and group II--of 21 patients without persistent elevation of this segment. RESULTS: In the group I, left ventricular ejection fraction ranged between 10 and 36% (mean: 24%). In 9/24 patients (38%) diffuse hypokinesis, in 7/24 patients (29%) regional akinesis and in the last 8/24 patients (33%) regional dyskinesis with impaired dilated left ventricular systolic and diastolic function were observed. In the group II, left ventricular ejection fraction ranged from 19 to 47%. Mean value of this parameter equaled 32% and was statistically significantly higher than in patients from group II. In 9/21 patients (42%) diffuse hypokinesis, in 2/21 patients (10%) regional anterior wall hypokinesis with the normal function of other walls, and in the last 10/21 patients (48%) regional anterior wall akinesis with the diffuse hypokinesis of other walls were localized. In the patients without persistent electrocardiographic ST segment elevation, diffuse hypokinesis was observed in majority of cases. In none of those patients ventricular aneurysm was diagnosed. In the patients with persistent electrocardiographic ST segment elevation, three types of decreased left ventricular function (diffuse hypokinesis, regional akinesis and ventricular aneurysm) were observed. It should be noted that in 1/3 of those patients ventricular aneurysm was diagnosed. Presence of diskinetic wall motion abnormalities in group I (in 8/24 patients) was statistically significantly more frequent (p < 0.01) than in group II (in 0/21 patients). CONCLUSIONS: 1. Presence of persistent electrocardiographic ST segment elevation in a patient with post infarction myocardial failure is a prerequisite for suspicion of post myocardial infarction left-ventricular aneurysm. 2. In patients without persistent electrocardiographic ST segment elevation and post infarction myocardial failure diffuse hipokinesis (sometimes with regional akinesis) is predominantly observed.

Adult↗

The PICNIC approach to regional care networks.

PICNIC is a pioneering project to develop an architecture for next generation regional healthcare networks. This paper gives an overview of the project and some of the reasoning behind the interrelated technical and business choices.

Computer Communication Networks↗

The israeli virtual national health record: a robust national health information infrastructure based on a firm foundation of trust.

In many developed countries, a coordinated effort is underway to build national and regional Health Information Infrastructures (HII) for the linking of disparate sites of care, so that an access to a comprehensive Health Record will be feasible when critical medical decisions are made [1]. However, widespread adoption of such national projects is hindered by a series of barriers- regulatory, technical, financial and cultural. Above all, a robust national HII requires a firm foundation of trust: patients must be assured that their confidential health information will not be misused and that there are adequate legal remedies in the event of inappropriate behavior on the part of either authorized or unauthorized parties[2].The Israeli evolving National HII is an innovative state of the art implementation of a wide-range clinical inter-organizational data exchange, based on a unique concept of virtually temporary sharing of information. A logically connection of multiple caregivers and medical organizations creates a patient-centric virtual repository, without centralization. All information remains in its original format, location, system and ownership. On demand, relevant information is instantly integrated and delivered to the point of care. This system, successfully covering more than half of Israel's population, is currently evolving from a voluntary private-public partnership (dbMOTION and CLALIT HMO) to a formal national reality. The governmental leadership, now taking over the process, is essential to achieve a full potential of the health information technology. All partners of the Israeli health system are coordinated in concert with each other, driven with a shared vision - realizing that a secured, private, confidential health information exchange is assured.

Confidentiality↗

[National survey of radiodiagnosis. Methodological aspects (1)].

A national sample of 386 radiological departments and offices representative of a total set of approximately 5 000 have been involved in a statistical survey during the years 81-82. This survey was first directed to the analysis of the production factors related to radiology (number and characteristics of facilities and equipment; medical and paramedical personnel, ...). The radiological activity has then been observed during one week (in June 82) through systematic questionnaires. The information collected on about 13 000 X-Ray examinations consists in characteristics of the population examined, the aims and results of examination, a technical description of procedures (number and size of films; projection; physical parameters, ...). This survey has excluded X-Ray routine examinations (occupational and others); dental examinations, isolated fluoroscopy and ultrasound practiced by physicians.

France↗

Optimal radiography of the acutely injured shoulder.

Over ten months, 172 radiographic examinations were performed on acutely injured shoulders, using three views: a) true AP in external rotation b) orthogonal views: 1) supine axial 2) erect 60 degree anterior oblique of all the examinations, 43 were abnormal with a variety of fractures and dislocations. We found the AP view almost twice as effective in detecting any abnormality. Realizing the need for orthogonal views in all shoulder trauma, the axial and anterior oblique were directly compared. Our data indicate that each orthogonal view is of equal value in assessing anterior dislocations and all other injuries. However, the axial projection is a much more difficult study to achieve technically in the acutely injured patient. Thus an examination of the injured shoulder should include two views: an AP in external rotation and a 60 degree anterior oblique. If an axial view can be obtained, it should be added.

Clavicle↗