bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Antibiotic susceptibility of coagulase-negative staphylococci isolated from very low birth weight babies: comprehensive comparisons of bacteria at different stages of biofilm formation
Authors: Qu Yue , Daley Andrew J , Istivan Taghrid S , Garland Suzanne M , Deighton Margaret A
Published: May 2010

Background

Coagulase-negative staphylococci are major causes of bloodstream infections in very low birth weight babies cared for in Neonatal Intensive Care Units. The virulence of these bacteria is mainly due to their ability to form biofilms on indwelling medical devices. Biofilm-related infections often fail to respond to antibiotic chemotherapy guided by conventional antibiotic susceptibility tests.

Methods

Coagulase-negative staphylococcal blood culture isolates were grown in different phases relevant to biofilm formation: planktonic cells at mid-log phase, planktonic cells at stationary phase, adherent monolayers and mature biofilms and their susceptibilities to conventional antibiotics were assessed. The effects of oxacillin, gentamicin, and vancomycin on preformed biofilms, at the highest achievable serum concentrations were examined. Epifluorescence microscopy and confocal laser scanning microscopy in combination with bacterial viability staining and polysaccharide staining were used to confirm the stimulatory effects of antibiotics on biofilms.

Results

Most coagulase-negative staphylococcal clinical isolates were resistant to penicillin G (100%), gentamicin (83.3%) and oxacillin (91.7%) and susceptible to vancomycin (100%), ciprofloxacin (100%), and rifampicin (79.2%). Bacteria grown as adherent monolayers showed similar susceptibilities to their planktonic counterparts at mid-log phase. Isolates in a biofilm growth mode were more resistant to antibiotics than both planktonic cultures at mid-log phase and adherent monolayers; however they were equally resistant or less resistant than planktonic cells at stationary phase. Moreover, for some cell-wall active antibiotics, concentrations higher than conventional MICs were required to prevent the establishment of planktonic cultures from biofilms. Finally, the biofilm-growth of two S. capitis isolates could be enhanced by oxacillin at the highest achievable serum concentration.

Conclusion

We conclude that the resistance of coagulase-negative staphylococci to multiple antibiotics initially remain similar when the bacteria shift from a planktonic growth mode into an early attached mode, then increase significantly as the adherent mode further develops. Furthermore, preformed biofilms of some CoNS are enhanced by oxacillin in a dose-dependent manner.
Modulation of HIV-1 macrophage-tropism among R5 envelopes occurs before detection of neutralizing antibodies
Authors: Richards Kathryn H , Aasa-Chapman Marlén MI , McKnight Áine , Clapham Paul R
Published: May 2010

HIV-1 R5 viruses vary widely in their capacity to infect primary macrophages. R5 macrophage-tropism is associated with an increased envelope:CD4 affinity that partly results from an increased exposure of CD4 contact residues on gp120 and allows the use of low levels of CD4 for infection. The selective pressures in vivo that modulate R5 macrophage-tropism are not understood. It is possible that different R5 variants adapt for replication in either T-cells (high CD4) or in macrophages (low CD4). However, other selective pressures in vivo (e.g. neutralizing antibodies) may also impact R5 tropism. Here, we measured macrophage infectivity conferred by gp120 sequences amplified sequentially from subjects in London followed from the acute stage of infection. We report wide variation in the capacity of these envelopes to confer macrophage infection in the complete absence of both autologous and heterologous neutralizing antibodies. Our data show that the variation in macrophage tropism observed at early times cannot have been influenced by neutralizing antibodies.
Vaticanol C, a resveratrol tetramer, activates PPARα and PPARβ/δ in vitro and in vivo
Authors: Tsukamoto Tomoko , Nakata Rieko , Tamura Emi , Kosuge Yukiko , Kariya Aya , Katsukawa Michiko , Mishima Satoshi , Ito Tetsuro , Iinuma Munekazu , Akao Yukihiro , Nozawa Yoshinori , Arai Yuji , Namura Shobu , Inoue Hiroyasu
Published: May 2010

Background

Appropriate long-term drinking of red wine is associated with a reduced risk of cardiovascular disease. Resveratrol, a well-known SIRT1 activator is considered to be one of the beneficial components contained in red wine, and also developed as a drug candidate. We previously demonstrated that resveratrol protects brain against ischemic stroke in mice through a PPARα-dependent mechanism. Here we report the different effects of the oligomers of resveratrol.

Methods

We evaluated the activation of PPARs by ε-viniferin, a resveratrol dimer, and vaticanol C, a resveratrol tetramer, in cell-based reporter assays using bovine arterial endothelial cells, as well as the activation of SIRT1. Moreover, we tested the metabolic action by administering vaticanol C with the high fat diet to wild-type and PPARα-knockout male mice for eight weeks.

Results

We show that vaticanol C activates PPARα and PPARβ/δ in cell-based reporter assays, but does not activate SIRT1. ε-Viniferin shows a similar radical scavenging activity as resveratrol, but neither effects on PPARs and SIRT-1. Eight-week intake of vaticanol C with a high fat diet upregulates hepatic expression of PPARα-responsive genes such as cyp4a10, cyp4a14 and FABP1, and skeletal muscle expression of PPARβ/δ-responsive genes, such as UCP3 and PDK4 (pyruvate dehydrogenase kinase, isoform 4), in wild-type, but not PPARα-knockout mice.

Conclusion

Vaticanol C, a resveratrol tetramer, activated PPARα and PPARβ/δ in vitro and in vivo. These findings indicate that activation of PPARα and PPARβ/δ by vaticanol C may be a novel mechanism, affording beneficial effects against lifestyle-related diseases.
Costs of relaparotomy on-demand versus planned relaparotomy in patients with severe peritonitis: an economic evaluation within a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Opmeer Brent C , Boer Kimberly R , van Ruler Oddeke , Reitsma Johannes B , Gooszen Hein G , de Graaf Peter W , Lamme Bas , Gerhards Michael F , Steller E Philip , Mahler Cecilia M , Obertop Huug , Gouma Dirk J , Bossuyt Patrick MM , de Borgie Corianne AJM , Boermeester Marja A
Published: May 2010

Introduction

Results of the first randomized trial comparing on-demand versus planned-relaparotomy strategy in patients with severe peritonitis (RELAP trial) indicated no clear differences in primary outcomes. We now report the full economic evaluation for this trial, including detailed methods, nonmedical costs, further differentiated cost calculations, and robustness of different assumptions in sensitivity analyses.

Methods

An economic evaluation was conducted from a societal perspective alongside a randomized controlled trial in 229 patients with severe secondary peritonitis and an acute physiology and chronic health evaluation (APACHE)-II score ≥11 from two academic and five regional teaching hospitals in the Netherlands. After the index laparotomy, patients were randomly allocated to an on-demand or a planned-relaparotomy strategy. Primary resource-utilization data were used to estimate mean total costs per patient during the index admission and after discharge until 1 year after the index operation. Overall differences in costs between the on-demand relaparotomy strategy and the planned strategy, as well as relative differences across several clinical subgroups, were evaluated.

Results

Costs were substantially lower in the on-demand group (mean, €65,768 versus €83,450 per patient in the planned group; mean absolute difference, €17,682; 95% CI, €5,062 to €29,004). Relative differences in mean total costs per patient (approximately 21%) were robust to various alternative assumptions. Planned relaparotomy consistently generated more costs across the whole range of different courses of disease (quick recovery and few resources used on one end of the spectrum; slow recovery and many resources used on the other end). This difference in costs between the two surgical strategies also did not vary significantly across several clinical subgroups.

Conclusions

The reduction in societal costs renders the on-demand strategy a more-efficient relaparotomy strategy in patients with severe peritonitis. These differences were found across the full range of healthcare resources as well as across patients with different courses of disease.

Trial Registration

ISRCTN51729393
Comparison of albicans vs. non-albicans candidemia in French intensive care units
Authors: Leroy Olivier , Mira Jean-Paul , Montravers Philippe , Gangneux Jean-Pierre , Lortholary Olivier ,   the AmarCand Study Group
Published: May 2010

Introduction

Candidemia raises numerous therapeutic issues for intensive care physicians. Epidemiological data that could guide the choice of initial therapy are still required. This analysis sought to compare the characteristics of intensive care unit (ICU) patients with candidemia due to non-albicansCandida species with those of ICU patients with candidemia due to Candidaalbicans.

Methods

A prospective, observational, multicenter, French study was conducted from October 2005 to May 2006. Patients exhibiting candidemia developed during ICU stay and exclusively due either to one or more non-albicans Candida species or to C. albicans were selected. The data collected included patient characteristics on ICU admission and at the onset of candidemia.

Results

Among the 136 patients analyzed, 78 (57.4%) had candidemia caused by C. albicans. These patients had earlier onset of infection (11.1 ± 14.2 days after ICU admission vs. 17.4 ± 17.7, p = 0.02), higher severity scores on ICU admission (SOFA: 10.4 ± 4.7 vs. 8.6 ± 4.6, p = 0.03; SAPS II: 57.4 ± 22.8 vs. 48.7 ± 15.5, P = 0.015), and were less often neutropenic (2.6% vs. 12%, p = 0.04) than patients with candidemia due to non-albicans Candida species.

Conclusions

Although patients infected with Candida albicans differed from patients infected with non-albicans Candida species for a few characteristics, no clinical factor appeared pertinent enough to guide the choice of empirical antifungal therapy in ICU.
EphB2-mediated interactions are essential for proper migration of T cell progenitors during fetal thymus colonization
Authors: Stimamiglio Marco A , Jiménez Eva , Silva-Barbosa Suse D , Alfaro David , García-Ceca José J , Muñoz Juan J , Cejalvo Teresa , Savino Wilson , Zapata Agustín
Published: May 2010

Recruitment of lymphoid progenitors to the thymus is compromised by the lack of Eph/ephrin signaling in both T-cell progenitors and thymic microenvironmental cells

The ephrin-Eph ligand receptor pair is known to control the repulsion/adhesion process in different tissues, including the immune system. Herein, we evaluated the role of EphB2 receptors in T cell progenitor migration during in vitro thymus colonization and to ECM or chemokine stimuli. EphB2 and their ligands, ephrin-B1 and ephrin-B2, are expressed in BM-derived progenitors, and EphB2−/− cells had diminished thymus colonization capacity. Conversely, EphB2LacZ cells, which maintain a preserved ephrin-binding domain, were capable of colonizing WT thymuses similarly to WT progenitors, highlighting the importance of reverse signals transmitted to normal fetal thymus. However, the EphB2 receptor expressed by microenvironmental cells also drives progenitor immigration, as recolonization of EphB2-deficient fetal thymuses was compromised profoundly. Additionally, we observed lower depositions of ECM and chemokines on EphB2-deficient thymuses but no changes in their receptor expression on BM-derived progenitors and developing thymocytes. Migration of EphB2-deficient progenitors and thymocytes was also reduced through ECM or chemokine stimuli. Furthermore, ephrin-B1 costimulation also inhibited haptotaxis and chemotaxis of WT but not EphB2LacZ cells, demonstrating the specific involvement of EphB2 signaling on T cell progenitor migration. Our data suggest the relevance of a nonactivated EphB2 for regulating T cell progenitor migration and its modulation upon ephrin-B engagement.
This issue of GEOPHYSICS
Authors: Grechka Vladimir
Published: May 2010

In this article, the Editor of Geophysics provides an overview of all technical articles in this issue of the journal.
Drosophila acinusencodes a novel regulator of endocytic and autophagic trafficking
Authors: Haberman Adam S. , Akbar Mohammed Ali , Ray Sanchali , Krämer Helmut
Published: May 2010

Endosomal trafficking affects many cellular pathways from cell signaling to metabolism, but little is known about how these effects are coordinated. In a genetic screen for mutants affecting endosomal trafficking, we identified Drosophila acinus (dacn; hook-like). Its mammalian homolog Acinus has been implicated in RNA processing and chromatin fragmentation during apoptosis. Loss-of-function analysis of dacn revealed two distinct functions. First, dacn is required for stabilization of early endosomes, thus modulating levels of Notch and Egfr signaling. Second, loss of dacn interferes with cellular starvation responses by inhibiting autophagosome maturation. By contrast, overexpression of dacn causes lethality due to enhanced autophagy. We show that this enhanced autophagy is independent of the Tor pathway. Taken together, our data show that dacn encodes a regulator of endosomal and autophagosomal dynamics, modulating developmental signaling and the cellular response to starvation.
Specific roles of Target of rapamycin in the control of stem cells and their progeny in theDrosophilaovary
Authors: LaFever Leesa , Feoktistov Alexander , Hsu Hwei-Jan , Drummond-Barbosa Daniela
Published: May 2010

Stem cells depend on intrinsic and local factors to maintain their identity and activity, but they also sense and respond to changing external conditions. We previously showed that germline stem cells (GSCs) and follicle stem cells (FSCs) in the Drosophila ovary respond to diet via insulin signals. Insulin signals directly modulate the GSC cell cycle at the G2 phase, but additional unknown dietary mediators control both G1 and G2. Target of rapamycin, or TOR, is part of a highly conserved nutrient-sensing pathway affecting growth, proliferation, survival and fertility. Here, we show that optimal TOR activity maintains GSCs but does not play a major role in FSC maintenance, suggesting differential regulation of GSCs versus FSCs. TOR promotes GSC proliferation via G2 but independently of insulin signaling, and TOR is required for the proliferation, growth and survival of differentiating germ cells. We also report that TOR controls the proliferation of FSCs but not of their differentiating progeny. Instead, TOR controls follicle cell number by promoting survival, independently of either the apoptotic or autophagic pathways. These results uncover specific TOR functions in the control of stem cells versus their differentiating progeny, and reveal parallels between Drosophila and mammalian follicle growth.
Do we need to change the legislation to a system of presumed consent to address organ shortage?
Authors: Simillis Constantinos
Published: May 2010

Organ transplantation significantly improves the health, quality of life and life-expectancy of people whose organs have failed. Most patients in the UK cannot enjoy the benefits of a transplant because of an extreme shortage of organs. This paper demonstrates the magnitude of the problem of organ shortage and identifies possible causes. The current UK legislation regarding consent to organ transplantation is analysed and compared with other jurisdictions. The hypothesis of changing the legislation to a system of presumed consent in order to address the organ shortage is explored. The main issues surrounding a change in the legislation are considered, and the effects on society and the individual are discussed. This paper argues that there is not enough convincing evidence to support a change in the legislation to a system of presumed consent at this time. Instead, an increase in organ donations could be achieved by improving the effectiveness of the current system of organ donation, and by improving the public's awareness and understanding of organ transplantation issues.
Linking research, policy and practice in welfare services and education in Norway
Authors: Ogden Terje , Kärki Freja Ulvestad , Teigen Katrine Stegenborg
Published: May 2010

In Norway, links between research, policy and practice are in a process of development, with initiatives to both strengthen the knowledge base for evidence-based policy and practice and increase the demand for research-based interventions. Examples of these initiatives from the fields of mental health, education and child welfare are provided, including institutions for research and development and the implementation of evidence-based programmes. The initiatives are set in the context of some basic facts about Norway and its research system. The implications of ‘importing’ evaluated intervention programmes from other countries are discussed, and the relative merits of a ‘what works’ or broader approach to evidence-based policy and practice are assessed.
Evidence-based policy and practice in social services in Iceland
Authors: Guðmundsson Halldór Sig. , Jónsdóttir Sigríður , Júlíusdóttir Sigrún
Published: May 2010

This paper discusses the development of evidence-based policy and practice in Iceland, focusing on the areas of social services and family policy. It highlights both the advantages and disadvantages of being a small nation. It outlines the Icelandic context and illustrates the increasing demand for evidence-based policy and practice at both central and local government levels, and the ways in which researchers have both stimulated and responded to these demands. Three case examples from the social services and family policy field are examined in the process of characterising developments to date and prospects for the future.
Quantitative denaturing high performance liquid chromatography (Q-dHPLC) detection of APC long DNA in faeces from patients with colorectal cancer
Authors: Kalimutho Murugan , Blanco Giovanna Del Vecchio , Gravina Paolo , Cretella Micaela , Mannucci Liliana , Mannisi Elena , Formosa Amanda , Pallone Francesco , Federici Giorgio , Bernardini Sergio
Published: May 2010

Background: Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths. However, prevention is possible by early detection. In the present work, we have demonstrated and validated a novel quantitative method based on a DNA integrity assay and mutation in faeces of CRC patients using denaturing high performance liquid chromatography (dHPLC).

Methods: Faecal DNA (fDNA) was isolated from 28 CRC, 96 healthy and 61 patients with adenomas. Adenomatosis polyposis coli (APC)-Long-DNA and its mutations were analysed using dHPLC and the Sanger sequencing method. The diagnostic performance was assessed using receiver operating characteristic curve analysis.

Results: We detected APC-Long-DNA in 21/28 CRC subjects with a sensitivity of 75% and specificity of 91.7%. A cut-off ratio of 0.2317 was used for APC/β-actin. The Q-dHPLC detection limit was 0.02 ng/injection. The average initial fDNA presence based on a single gene of β-actin was 26.12±13.39 ng/mL for healthy, and 49.61±46.28 ng/mL for CRC subjects, with a sensitivity of 71.4% and a specificity of 84.4% at a cut-off value >29 ng/mL. We also detected a novel mutation at codon 1576 Lys/Glu using dHPLC.

Conclusions: This study highlights a novel application of Q-dHPLC in the DNA integrity assay, which demonstrates high performance, good reproducibility, and low cost for the CRC detection using faeces. Further studies in a larger population are needed to confirm these results.

Clin Chem Lab Med 2010;48:1303–11.
Determination of trace elements in iron minerals by instrumental and radiochemical neutron activation analysis
Authors: Makreski Petre , Jacimovic Radojko , Stibilj Vekoslava , Stafilov Trajče , Jovanovski Gligor
Published: May 2010

The method for determination of major and trace elements in iron oxide [hematite (Fe2O3)] and sulfide [pyrite (FeS2) and chalcopyrite (CuFeS2)] minerals using the k
0-method of neutron activation analysis in both forms: instrumental (k
0-INAA) and radiochemical (k
0-RNAA) was suggested. In order to avoid interferences from iron on the determination of elements present in trace levels, radiochemical separation was made. Determination of the investigated elements in the aqueous phase was performed by k
0-RNAA after extraction of iron by isoamyl acetate (IAA) and diisopropyl ether (DIPE) from hydrochloric acid solution. The distribution of 35 elements in extraction systems (with intermediate/medium and long half-lived radionuclides) present in the studied minerals was investigated.
Novel polymer vectors of 64Cu
Authors: Kozempel J. , Hrubý M. , Nováková Michaela , Kučka Jan , Lešetický Ladislav , Lebeda O.
Published: May 2010

We describe a preparation of novel polymer vectors of 64Cu based on co-polymers of poly- (N-isopropylacrylamide) and poly- (N-hydroxypropylmethacrylamide). DOTA, DTPA, dipicolylamine, thiosemicarbazone and Ag-ionophore-II ligands were tested to bind 64Cu in a polymer chain. Labeling yields with no-carrier-added 64Cu varied from 95 to 99% in 30 min. at laboratory temperature. Vectors were stable in vitro for 24 h in human serum and might be prospective for targeted 64Cu radio or combined radiochemotherapy.
The Stela of Dedusobek. (Cairo, CG 20596)
Authors: Stefanović Danijela
Published: May 2010

Publication of a Middle Kingdom stela (Cairo, CG 20596) belonging to the ‘Draftsman ddw-sbk’, found in the northern necropolis at Abydos. The stela is on display on the ground floor of the Egyptian Museum. The text of the stela was published without translation by A. Mariette. The monument can be dated by the offering formula, its respective palaeography, epigraphy, and iconography to the Late Middle Kingdom. It is well preserved and traces of colors are still visible.
South Korean Strategic Thinking toward North Korea: The Evolution of the Engagement Policy and Its Impact upon U.S.-ROK Relations
Authors: Bae Jong-Yun
Published: May 2010

Despite agreements in 2007 in the Six-Party Talks, the U.S. and South Korea have had trouble reaching consensus in dealing with subsequent nuclear crises spawned by North Korea. This study focuses on South Korean strategic thinking about and policy toward North Korea and Korean unification, and their changes since the 1990s.
Permanent Impermanence
Authors: Ali Syed
Published: May 2010

I was standing on the helipad of a new, swanky highrise apartment building in the Dubai Marina with my friend Vishul in the summer of 2006. We took in the panoramic, nighttime view of skyscrapers in the making, each capped with cranes lit red and white like so many giant Transformer action figures. Vishul, who'd grown up in Dubai, turned three hundred and sixty degrees and jokingly exclaimed, “This is the future!” And, until the global economic meltdown hit in late 2008, it probably was.
Plink: "Thin Slices" of Music
Authors: Krumhansl Carol L.
Published: May 2010

SHORT CLIPS (300 AND 400 MS), TAKEN FROM POPULAR songs from the 1960's through the 2000's,were presented to participants in two experiments to study the detail and contents of musical memory. For 400 ms clips, participants identified both artist and title on more than 25% of the trials.Very accurate confidence ratings showed that this knowledge was recalled consciously. Performance was somewhat higher if the clip contained a word or partword from the title. Even when a clip was not identified, it conveyed information about emotional content, style and, to some extent, decade of release. Performance on song identification was markedly lower for 300 ms clips, although participants still gave consistent emotion and style judgments, and fairly accurate judgments of decade of release. The decade of release had no effect on identification, emotion consistency, or style consistency. However, older songs were preferred, suggesting that the availability of recorded music alters the pattern of preferences previously assumed to be established during adolescence and early adulthood. Taken together, the results point to extraordinary abilities to identify music based on highly reduced information.
Self-Generated Interval Subdivision Reduces Variability of Synchronization with a Very Slow Metronome
Authors: Repp Bruno H.
Published: May 2010

SUBDIVISION BY COUNTING HAS BEEN SHOWN TO improve interval discrimination for durations exceeding 1.2 s (Grondin,Meilleur-Wells, & Lachance, 1999). The present study examined whether simple interval subdivision (bisection) reduces variability of synchronization with a slow metronome. Interval durations ranged from 1 s to 3.25 s.Musically trained participants tapped in synchrony with the metronome while: (1) refraining from any subdivision, (2) mentally bisecting each interval, (3) making additional taps at the bisection points (double tempo tapping), or (4) tapping only at the bisection points (anti-phase tapping). In each task, the standard deviation of asynchronies and intertap intervals was found to increase almost linearly with interval duration, but the slope decreased from condition 1 to condition 4. Differences among conditions were nearly absent with intervals of 1 s (roughly consistent with Grondin et al., 1999), but emerged and increased steadily as interval duration increased. In double tempo tapping, anti-phase taps were less variable than in-phase taps and depended less on the immediately preceding taps. The findings are interpreted in terms of multiple temporal references in synchronization, and their potential relevance to musical ensemble playing is pointed out.
On the Prevalence of Congenital Amusia
Authors: Henry Molly J. , McAuley J. Devin
Published: May 2010

CONGENITAL AMUSIA, OR 'TONE DEAFNESS,' IS A LIFELONG impairment in musical ability, reported to be present in approximately 4% of the general population.We examined the meaningfulness of 4% as an estimate of the prevalence of amusia given current test-based methods; here we focused on the Distorted Tunes Test (DTT) and the Montreal Battery of Evaluation of Amusia (MBEA). We demonstrate that estimates of prevalence critically depend on the specific cutoff applied to the test and the degree of skew in the distribution of scores. Broader consideration of this issue reveals that the use of arbitrary cutoffs is not unique to diagnosis of congenital amusia. We conclude that although the MBEA has shown to be a valuable diagnostic tool, caution is warranted against attributing meaning to the reported 4% rate of congenital amusia that is so widely cited in the literature.
An Exploration of Substitutes for Leadership: Problems and Prospects
Authors: Wu Yu-Chi
Published: May 2010

Despite the conceptual premise of Kerr and Jermier's (1978) substitutes for leadership model, there has been little evidence of empirical support when substitutes for leadership are modeled as interactions with leader behaviors. In this study we attempted to show that one reason that
significant interaction effects have not been found in prior research is the restricted range of the sample. We therefore investigated the interaction between substitutes for leadership and leader behaviors using a broad-based sampling design based on Mintzberg's (1993) model. We found support
for interactions between the substitutes for leadership and leader behaviors. The conclusion we reached is not that the original model of Kerr and Jermier is wrong, but rather that the methods used to test leadership interactions have not been appropriate. In addition, we found evidence in
this research that supports aspects of Mintzberg's (1993) Structure in Fives model.
Emotional Stroop Interference for Depression-Related Stimuli in a United Arab Emirates Student Population
Authors: Thomas Justin , Campbell Carol , Altareb Belkeis , Yousif Ahmed
Published: May 2010

A bilingual Arabic-speaking student population performed an emotional Stroop task designed to assess the interference effects of depressive stimuli. The aim was to replicate the findings of previous studies with English-speaking participants in which slower color-naming responses were
reported for depression-related stimuli, with speed negatively correlated with increasing levels of depressive symptomatology. We used repeated measures design measuring any slowing of naming for the emotional words, while Pearson's r was used to explore the relationship between emotional
Stroop performance decrease and extent of depressive symptoms. University students (N = 261) completed a computerized, Arabic-language version of the emotional Stroop task, along with a questionnaire (the Beck Depression Inventory) measure of depressive symptoms. The response time differential
for depression related (RT depressive – RT normal), but not neutral (RT neutral – RT normal), words were positively correlated with depressive symptom scores. The findings were consistent with studies reporting mood-congruent information processing biases in English-speaking populations.
The emotional Stroop task may prove useful as a culturally-neutral adjunct in the implicit assessment of depressive symptoms or vulnerabilities.
When Guilt Leads to Other Orientation and Shame Leads to Egocentric Self-Focus: Effects of Differential Priming of Negative Affects on Perspective Taking
Authors: Yang Mu-Li , Yang Chao-Chin , Chiou Wen-Bin
Published: May 2010

Previous researchers have pointed out that different negative affects with the same degree of negative valence may have distinct, yet predictable, influences on information processing. Based upon the perspective of “affect-as-information” and the mood repair hypothesis,
we examined differences in individuals' perspective taking arising when they felt either guilt or shame. Undergraduates (N = 114) were randomly assigned to 1 of 3 affect-inducing conditions. After receiving affect manipulation, they were asked to engage in a perspective-taking task
and to make judgments about how other people thought. Compared with participants in a neutral mood, participants experiencing guilt showed better perspective taking, and participants experiencing shame showed worse perspective taking. In general, the results suggest that an individual's inclination
to take other persons' perspectives into consideration has a differential effect on mood repair depending on whether behavior is motivated by shame or guilt.
Exploring the Relationship Between Customer-Related Measures and Shareholder Value
Authors: Li Qianpin
Published: May 2010

In this study the relationship between customer-related measures and a firm's shareholder value was examined. Based on well-founded theories of customer satisfaction, loyalty, and customer lifetime value (CLV), an integrated structural model is hypothesized in this study to explore
the structural nexus among those customer-related factors. A random sample of 1,000 credit card holders with 11 banks in Taiwan were surveyed by means of a questionnaire. A total of 326 valid questionnaires were collected and analyzed. In comparison with CLV and customer loyalty, the empirical
findings suggest that the factor of customer satisfaction is the most important indicator of a firm's shareholder value. Study results also indicated that customer loyalty has a negative impact on shareholder value.
The Influences of Environmental Uncertainty on Corporate Green Behavior: An Empirical Study with Small and Medium-Size Enterprises
Authors: Lin Chieh-Yu , Ho Yi-Hui
Published: May 2010

For the purpose of sustainable development, green management has become an important social issue for many companies. Substantial scholarship has focused on corporate green behavior. However, little is known concerning how corporate green behavior is influenced by environmental uncertainty.
This paper was aimed at analyzing the influence of perceived environmental uncertainty on the adoption of green practices for small and medium-size enterprises (SMEs). We conducted a questionnaire survey on SMEs in Taiwan and concluded that environmental uncertainty has a significantly negative
influence on the decision to adopt green practices for SMEs.
Oxidative stabilization of sunflower oil by antioxidant fractions from selected Lamiaceae herbs
Authors: Babovic Nada , Zizovic Irena , Saicic Snezana , Ivanovic Jasna , Petrovic Slobodan
Published: May 2010

This study reports the effect of antioxidant fractions from rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis), sage (Salvia officinalis), thyme (Thymus vulgaris) and hyssop (Hyssop officinalis) on the oxidative stability of sunflower oil at elevated temperature. In order to isolate antioxidant fractions, method of fractional supercritical extraction with carbon dioxide at 35 MPa and 100?C was applied. Antioxidant fractions were added to sunflower oil, at concentrations of 200 mg/kg oil and samples were stored in an oven maintained at 98?C. Antioxidant activity of the extracts was determined by measuring peroxide values (PV). Among investigated extracts, the rosemary extract was the most effective on retarding lipid oxidation of sunflower oil. The antioxidant activity of the extracts was compared to the activity of butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA) and commercial rosemary extract Flavor' Plus. On the basis of PV assay, antioxidant activity of the investigated plant extracts after 12 h of storage at 98?C followed the order: rosemary extract > BHA > sage extract > Flavor' Plus > thyme extract > hyssop extract.
Deklinacija zamenica Z.R.JD. u govorima jugozapadnog dela Kosova i Metohije
Authors: Mladenovic Radivoje
Published: May 2010

Dans la pr?sente ?tude nous analysons les formes de la d?clinaison des pronoms f?minins au singulier dans les parlers du Sud-Ouest du Kosovo et de la Metochie. Dans les limites de la zone ?tudi?e, on distingue deux corpus dialectiques: a) Celui de Prizren - Sud de la Morava qui pr?sente dans la d?clinaison des pronoms f?minins au singulier certaines formes nouvelles caract?ristiques des parlers du type Kosovo - Resava; b) celui du Nord de la montagne Sara, dans lequel n'apparaissent pas ces nouvelles formes. Nous ?tudions s'il existe ou non analogie morphologique entre les formes des substantifs f?minins au singulier et celles des pronoms et adjectifs s'accordant avec eux ( dadi stare zene: dadi starejzi zene dadi stari zeni: dadi starojzi zeni: dadi starojzi zene; ot stare zene: ot starejzi zene: ot starejze zene / ot staru zenu). En analysant les relations morphologiques dans la d?clinaison des pronoms nous avons accorde une attention particuli?re au nouveau ph?nom?ne d'assimilation des formes du g?nitif fem.sing./datif fem.sing./locatif fem.sing., la forme du datif a particule s'?tendant au g?nitif sing. et au locatif sing., ainsi qu'au ph?nom?ne d'assimilation du datif sing. et accusatif sing./ cas r?gime avec la forme du datif qui s'?tend a l'accusatif. .
Singlet oxygen generation by higher fullerene-based colloids
Authors: Jovanovic Svetlana , Markovic Zoran , Kleut Duska , Trajkovic Vladimir , Babic-Stojic Branka , Dramicanin Miroslav , Markovic Todorovic
Published: May 2010

In this paper, the results of the synthesis and characterization of higher fullerene-based colloids is presented. The generation of singlet oxygen 1O2 (1?g) by fullerene water-based colloids (nC60, nC70 and nC84) was investigated. It was found by electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy that the generation of singlet oxygen was the highest by the nC84 colloid. The amplitude of the electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) signal was two orders of magnitude higher than the amplitude of the EPR signals which originated from nC60 and nC70. The surface morphology and the structure of the particles of the water-based colloids were investigated by atomic force microscopy (AFM). The AFM study showed that the average size of the nC60, nC70 and nC84 were 200 nm, 80 nm and 70 nm, respectively. In addition, the particle size distribution of the nC60, nC70 and nC84 colloids was determined by dynamic light scattering (DLS) measurements.
Prediction of Type 1 Diabetes in the General Population
Authors: Knip Mikael , Korhonen Sari , Kulmala Petri , Veijola Riitta , Reunanen Antti , Raitakari Olli T. , Viikari Jorma , Åkerblom Hans K.
Published: May 2010

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the utility of GAD antibodies (GADAs) and islet antigen-2 antibodies (IA-2As) in prediction of type 1 diabetes over 27 years in the general population and to assess the 6-year rates of seroconversion.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

A total of 3,475 nondiabetic subjects aged 3–18 years were sampled in 1980, and 2,375 subjects (68.3%) were resampled in 1986. All subjects were observed for development of diabetes to the end of 2007. GADAs and IA-2As were analyzed in all samples obtained in 1980 and 1986.

RESULTS

A total of 34 individuals (1.0%; 9 developed diabetes) initially had GADAs and 22 (0.6%; 9 developed diabetes) IA-2As. Seven subjects (0.2%) tested positive for both autoantibodies. The positive seroconversion rate over 6 years was 0.4% for GADAs and 0.2% for IA-2As, while the inverse seroconversion rates were 33 and 57%, respectively. Eighteen subjects (0.5%) developed type 1 diabetes after a median pre-diabetic period of 8.6 years (range 0.9–20.3). Initial positivity for GADAs and/or IA-2As had a sensitivity of 61% (95% CI 36–83) for type 1 diabetes. Combined positivity for GADAs and IA-2As had both a specificity and a positive predictive value of 100% (95% CI 59–100).

CONCLUSIONS

One-time screening for GADAs and IA-2As in the general childhood population in Finland would identify ∼60% of those individuals who will develop type 1 diabetes over the next 27 years, and those subjects who have both autoantibodies carry an extremely high risk for diabetes. Both positive and inverse seroconversions do occur over time reflecting a dynamic process of β-cell autoimmunity.
Plasma Protein Growth Arrest–Specific 6 Levels Are Associated With Altered Glucose Tolerance, Inflammation, and Endothelial Dysfunction
Authors: Hung Yi-Jen , Lee Chien-Hsing , Chu Nain-Feng , Shieh Yi-Shing
Published: May 2010

OBJECTIVE

Plasma protein growth arrest–specific 6 (Gas6) is important to the inflammatory process and is involved in the development of diabetic renal and vascular complications. We set out to determine whether plasma Gas6 levels are associated with altered glucose tolerance, insulin sensitivity, inflammation, and endothelial dysfunction.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

A total of 278 adults, including 96 with normal glucose tolerance (NGT), 82 with impaired glucose tolerance (IGT), and 100 with type 2 diabetes were recruited. Plasma Gas6 concentration and biochemical, proinflammatory, and endothelial variables were determined. Insulin sensitivity was examined by homeostasis model assessment.

RESULTS

Plasma Gas6 concentration was significantly lower among patients with type 2 diabetes compared with subjects with NGT (P < 0.001). The plasma Gas6 value was inversely correlated with fasting glucose, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, interleukin (IL)-6, and vascular cell adhesion molecule (VCAM)-1. In multivariate logistic regression analysis, after adjustment for established diabetes risk factors, higher plasma Gas6 concentrations were significantly associated with a decreased risk of type 2 diabetes. Moreover, the association became slightly stronger after further adjustment for TNF-α, IL-6, high-sensitive C-reactive protein, E-selectin, intercellular adhesion molecule-1, and VCAM-1.

CONCLUSIONS

Plasma Gas6 is associated with altered glucose tolerance, inflammation, and endothelial dysfunction. It also may represent a novel independent risk factor of type 2 diabetes and a potential surrogate marker of inflammation and endothelial dysfunction.
Cross-Sectional Study of Periodontal Care and Glycosylated Hemoglobin in an Insured Population
Authors: Spangler Leslie , Reid Robert J. , Inge Ronald , Newton Katherine M. , Hujoel Philippe , Chaudhari Monica , Genco Robert J. , Barlow William E.
Published: May 2010

OBJECTIVE

Compare GHb among people with diabetes who have and have not received periodontal care.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

This cross-sectional study linked 5 years of electronic medical record and dental insurance data for dually insured patients with diabetes, ages 40–70 years (n = 5,103). We assessed the association between annual mean GHb (%) and periodontal care (a proxy for periodontitis) defined using claim codes. Among patients who received periodontal care, we assessed the association between GHb and periodontal treatment intensity. We determined associations using linear regression adjusted for potential confounders and tested for effect modification by age, sex, insulin use, diabetes severity, BMI, and smoking.

RESULTS

Mean GHb was 7.66%; 38% of participants received periodontal care during the 5 years. After multivariate adjustment, patients who received periodontal care had a GHb level 0.08 percentage points higher than patients who did not (P = 0.02). In stratified analyses, the association was present for women (0.18 percentage points higher GHb with periodontal care, P < 0.001) but not significant for men (0.008 percentage points lower, P = 0.86). In patients who received periodontal care, those with one, and with two or more, surgical treatments had GHb 0.25 (P = 0.04) and 0.36 (P = 0.002) percentage points lower, respectively, than patients without periodontal surgeries.

CONCLUSIONS

This population-based cross-sectional study showed small associations between periodontal care (a proxy for periodontitis) and higher GHb. Well-controlled longitudinal studies or clinical trials are needed to evaluate causality and temporal trends. Sub-analyses suggest that further investigation of this association among women, and by intensity of periodontal treatment, may be of interest.
Real-Time Hypoglycemia Prediction Suite Using Continuous Glucose Monitoring
Authors: Dassau Eyal , Cameron Fraser , Lee Hyunjin , Bequette B. Wayne , Zisser Howard , Jovanovič Lois , Chase H. Peter , Wilson Darrell M. , Buckingham Bruce A. , Doyle Francis J.
Published: May 2010

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to develop an advanced algorithm that detects pending hypoglycemia and then suspends basal insulin delivery. This approach can provide a solution to the problem of nocturnal hypoglycemia, a major concern of patients with diabetes.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

This real-time hypoglycemia prediction algorithm (HPA) combines five individual algorithms, all based on continuous glucose monitoring 1-min data. A predictive alarm is issued by a voting algorithm when a hypoglycemic event is predicted to occur in the next 35 min. The HPA system was developed using data derived from 21 Navigator studies that assessed Navigator function over 24 h in children with type 1 diabetes. We confirmed the function of the HPA using a separate dataset from 22 admissions of type 1 diabetic subjects. During these admissions, hypoglycemia was induced by gradual increases in the basal insulin infusion rate up to 180% from the subject's own baseline infusion rate.

RESULTS

Using a prediction horizon of 35 min, a glucose threshold of 80 mg/dl, and a voting threshold of three of five algorithms to predict hypoglycemia (defined as a FreeStyle plasma glucose readings <60 mg/dl), the HPA predicted 91% of the hypoglycemic events. When four of five algorithms were required to be positive, then 82% of the events were predicted.

CONCLUSIONS

The HPA will enable automated insulin-pump suspension in response to a pending event that has been detected prior to severe immediate complications.
Impact of an Interactive Online Nursing Educational Module on Insulin Errors in Hospitalized Pediatric Patients
Authors: Sullivan Mary M. , O'Brien Colette R. , Gitelman Stephen E. , Shapiro Susan E. , Rushakoff Robert J.
Published: May 2010

OBJECTIVE

To determine the effectiveness of an online module for reducing insulin administration errors by nurses caring for hospitalized pediatric patients.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Pediatric nursing staff completed a mandatory online educational module teaching insulin pharmacokinetics and the insulin order form, using diluted insulin and finishing with 15 interactive cases. A chart audit to determine all possible insulin errors of patients receiving insulin was done before and 2–6 months after the educational module.

RESULTS

All of the medical center's 283 pediatric nurses successfully completed the educational module. A total of 24 charts were audited in the preintervention phase and 22 in the postintervention phase. The preintervention insulin error rate was 14.8%, reduced to 1.7% (P < 0.001) postintervention. Improvement occurred in correct insulin dosing and type, timing of administration, and timely blood glucose monitoring and documentation.

CONCLUSIONS

An interactive online educational module can be an effective strategy for reducing pediatric nurses' insulin administration errors.
Diabetes and Risk of Hip Fracture in the Singapore Chinese Health Study
Authors: Koh Woon-Puay , Wang Renwei , Ang Li-Wei , Heng Derrick , Yuan Jian-Min , Yu Mimi C.
Published: May 2010

OBJECTIVE

Asian populations are documenting rapid increases in the rates of diabetes and hip fracture, but there are no prospective data linking both diseases in Asian studies. We investigated this association among a cohort of Chinese in Singapore.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

A prospective cohort of 63,257 Chinese in the Singapore Chinese Health Study, established between 1993 and 1998, was followed up for a mean duration of 12 years. Diabetes status was ascertained by baseline interviews, and incidence of hip fracture post-enrollment was identified through a nationwide hospital discharge database.

RESULTS

The risk of hip fracture, after adjustment for other risk factors, was almost double among people with diabetes compared with people without diabetes (relative risk 1.98, 95% CI 1.71–2.29). When stratified by BMI, the increase in risk of hip fracture among people with diabetes relative to people without diabetes was similar in all four strata. There was a very strong dose-dependent relationship between duration of diabetes and risk of hip fracture (P for trend <0.0001). Compared with people without diabetes, the relative risk (95% CI) among subjects with diabetes for <5 years at recruitment was 1.40 (1.08–1.82), and this risk increased to 2.66 (2.04–3.47) among individuals with diabetes for ≥15 years.

CONCLUSIONS

Asians with diabetes, like their Western counterparts, experience an increased risk of hip fracture. Early assessment for osteoporosis and increased fracture risk, as well as prevention of falls, should be part of the management of diabetes.