A large-scale, short-term, media-based weight loss program

BACKGROUND. This article describes the evaluation of a media-based weight loss and nutrition program. METHODS. Fifteen broadcasts were aired on a Chicago television news program over a three-week period in November of 1986. Some participants (n = 37) received the television program and an accompanying manual, and some (n = 37) received, in addition to the television and media interventions, encouragement to attend self-help groups dealing with obesity. RESULTS. Repeated measures analysis of variance tests were performed, and planned comparisons were conducted only if main effects were significant. At posttesting, those participants attending the self-help groups lost an average of more than nine pounds, whereas those provided only the television program and manual had decreased by less than a pound. Those attending the groups had significantly decreased their percent of dietary fat intake, significantly increased aerobic exercise, and had significantly more hopefulness, motivation, and stimulus control. DISCUSSION. The findings suggest that short-term mass media programs by themselves were probably not very effective, but when supplemented by a self-help manual and support groups may be able to produce significant short-term weight loss.     

Induction of immunogenicity of monoclonal antibodies by conjugation with drugs

Human anti-mouse antibody has been a nearly consistent result of human clinical trials utilizing murine antibodies. It is generally anticipated that the problem of human anti-mouse antibody will be reduced as genetically engineered, more human ("humanized") antibodies become available. It is not clear, however, what effect chemical modification of such "humanized" antibodies will have on their immunogenicity. The present studies utilize a mouse antibody and rat host model to explore aspects of this question. Rats injected with unmodified mouse monoclonal antibodies failed to mount anti-mouse immune responses, presumably due to their phylogenetic relatedness. In contrast, rats injected with a Vinca immunoconjugate mounted strong anticonjugate antibody responses that were directed primarily against the linker portion of the conjugate. The in vivo serum pharmacokinetics of 125I-labeled antibody and conjugates were evaluated in rats with existing anticonjugate antibody. The peak serum level attained was inversely correlated with the level of reactivity of the anticonjugate antibody with the injected compound. This model provides a potentially useful tool for exploration of the immunogenicity of drug, toxin, or radionuclide monoclonal antibody conjugates.     

Training needs analysis

With limited training budgets and an increasing range of training opportunities available, provider units will need to have effective training strategies. The Grantham model, described by Kevin Teasdale and colleagues, offers a clear and practical approach.     

Lee Memorial Hospital records positive early results for first of several "focused care centers," foundation of hospitalwide conversion

This article is the second of two parts. In the March 1992 issue, authors Francine Gomberg and Kurt Miller discussed the reasons for fundamental change at Lee Memorial Hospital in Fort Myers, Florida, and set out the parameters of their "World Class Healthcare" initiatives.