bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Oncogenes and Angiogenesis: Down-regulation of Thrombospondin-1 in Normal Fibroblasts Exposed to Factors from Cancer Cells Harboring Mutant Ras
Authors: Kalas Wojciech , Yu Joanne L. , Milsom Chloe , Rosenfeld Jack , Benezra Robert , Bornstein Paul , Rak Janusz
Published: October 2005

The onset of angiogenesis in cancer often involves down-regulation of endogenous angiogenesis inhibitors, of which thrombospondin-1 (TSP-1) is a paradigm. As this effect is thought to occur under the influence of transforming genetic lesions (e.g., expression of the mutant ras oncogene), its nature is regarded as intrinsic to cancer cells themselves. Here, we show that ras-transformed cancer cells can also induce TSP-1 down-regulation in their adjacent nontransformed stromal fibroblasts, but not in endothelial cells, in a paracrine and distance-dependent manner. Indeed, several H-ras-expressing fibrosarcoma (528ras1, B6ras, and NIH3T3Ras) and carcinoma (DLD-1 and IEC18Ras3) cells were found to release soluble factors capable of suppressing TSP-1 protein, mRNA, and promoter activity in nontumorigenic, immortalized dermal fibroblastic cell lines in culture (e.g., in fibroblasts expressing enhanced green fluorescent protein/TSP-1 reporter). This effect was abrogated in Id1−/− fibroblasts. At least two low molecular weight (<3 kDa), heat-labile, and trypsin-resistant mediators of TSP-1 suppression were found to be released from 528ras1 cells. Their effects on normal fibroblasts were inhibited (albeit to different extents) by pertussis toxin and, in one case, by dimethylsphingosine, none of which affected TSP-1 expression by 528ras1 cells. Collectively, our study suggests that the effect of mutant ras on tumor neovascularization is not limited to changes in angiogenic properties of cancer cells themselves. Rather, mutant ras, through a different signaling mechanism, may modulate the properties of the adjacent normal stroma, thus eliciting a proangiogenic field effect.
Reduction of Experimental Human Fibrosarcoma Lung Metastasis in Mice by Adenovirus-Mediated Cystatin C Overexpression in the Host
Authors: Kopitz Charlotte , Anton Martina , Gansbacher Bernd , Krüger Achim
Published: October 2005

Tumor cell invasion and metastasis are associated with degradation of components of the extracellular matrix by different proteinases. Among those, papain-like cysteine proteases, such as cathepsin B, seem to play an important role, as they are associated with poor clinical outcome in different cancers. In this study, we tested whether cystatin C, a natural extracellular inhibitor of papain-like cysteine proteases, can inhibit metastasis when overexpressed at the tumor-host interface. Local overexpression of cystatin C in liver and lungs of CD1 nu/nu mice was achieved by gene transfer with a novel adenoviral construct, which also led to the presence of 60 ng/mL of cystatin C in the serum. Three days after gene transfer, these mice were challenged by i.v. inoculation of lacZ-tagged human fibrosarcoma cells (HT1080lacZ-K15), leading to the formation of experimental lung and liver metastases. In this model, formation of experimental metastatic foci correlated with expression of cathepsin B in lungs, whereas there was no correlation with metastasis to the liver. In mice overexpressing cystatin C, the number of lung metastases was significantly reduced by 92%, as compared with mice receiving control adenovirus. The efficacy of extravasation of HT1080lacZ-K15 cells into the liver was not affected, indicating the independence of this process from the activity of cysteine-cathepsins. The present report is the first evidence of successful reduction of metastasis by inhibition of cysteine-cathepsins by cystatin C overexpression in the host microenvironment. Furthermore, organ-specific protease expression during tumor-host cell interactions could affect the success of antiproteolytic intervention against metastasis.
Stromal Expression of Connective Tissue Growth Factor Promotes Angiogenesis and Prostate Cancer Tumorigenesis
Authors: Yang Feng , Tuxhorn Jennifer A. , Ressler Steven J. , McAlhany Stephanie J. , Dang Truong D. , Rowley David R.
Published: October 2005

Our previous studies have defined reactive stroma in human prostate cancer and have developed the differential reactive stroma (DRS) xenograft model to evaluate mechanisms of how reactive stroma promotes carcinoma tumorigenesis. Analysis of several normal human prostate stromal cell lines in the DRS model showed that some rapidly promoted LNCaP prostate carcinoma cell tumorigenesis and others had no effect. These differential effects were due, in part, to elevated angiogenesis and were transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1 mediated. The present study was conducted to identify and evaluate candidate genes expressed in prostate stromal cells responsible for this differential tumor-promoting activity. Differential cDNA microarray analyses showed that connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) was expressed at low levels in nontumor-promoting prostate stromal cells and was constitutively expressed in tumor-promoting prostate stromal cells. TGF-β1 stimulated CTGF message expression in nontumor-promoting prostate stromal cells. To evaluate the role of stromal-expressed CTGF in tumor progression, either engineered mouse prostate stromal fibroblasts expressing retroviral-introduced CTGF or 3T3 fibroblasts engineered with mifepristone-regulated CTGF were combined with LNCaP human prostate cancer cells in the DRS xenograft tumor model under different extracellular matrix conditions. Expression of CTGF in tumor-reactive stroma induced significant increases in microvessel density and xenograft tumor growth under several conditions tested. These data suggest that CTGF is a downstream mediator of TGF-β1 action in cancer-associated reactive stroma and is likely to be one of the key regulators of angiogenesis in the tumor-reactive stromal microenvironment.
Genetic Disruption of Cytosine DNA Methyltransferase Enzymes Induces Chromosomal Instability in Human Cancer Cells
Authors: Karpf Adam R. , Matsui Sei-ichi
Published: October 2005

DNA methyltransferase 1 (DNMT1)–deficient mice are tumor-prone, and this has been proposed to result from the induction of genomic instability. To address whether loss of DNMT1, or the related protein DNMT3b, results in genomic instability in human cancer cells, we used a near-diploid human colorectal cancer cell line, HCT116, in which one or both DNMT genes were disrupted by homologous recombination. Array-based comparative genomic hybridization analyses indicated that double, but not single, DNMT knock-out cells display two specific alterations in regional DNA copy number, suggesting that DNMT deficiency and genomic DNA hypomethylation are not associated with widespread genomic amplifications or deletions in human cancer cells. However, spectral karyotype analyses revealed that DNMT-deficient HCT116 cells are highly unstable with respect to large-scale chromosomal alterations; furthermore, this effect is characterized by a high degree of individual cell heterogeneity. The induction of chromosomal alterations in DNMT-deficient cells was evidenced both by aneuploidy and by large increases in the number of novel chromosomal translocations. Studies of double knock-out cells indicated that the generation of chromosomal alterations is spontaneous and persistent in vitro, meeting the formal definition of genomic instability. In summary, we show that DNMT deficiency in human cancer cells results in constitutive genomic instability manifested by chromosomal translocations.
Fhit and CHK1 Have Opposing Effects on Homologous Recombination Repair
Authors: Hu Baocheng , Wang Hongyan , Wang Xiang , Lu Hua-Rui , Huang Cuifen , Powell Simon N. , Huebner Kay , Wang Ya
Published: October 2005

Fragile histidine triad (FHIT) gene deletion or promoter methylation and reduced Fhit protein expression occur in ∼70% of human epithelial tumors and, in some cancers, are clearly associated with tumor progression. Specific Fhit signal pathways have not been identified. We previously reported that compared with Fhit+/+ cells, Fhit−/− cells with an overactivated ATR/CHK1 pathway show increased mutation frequency and resistance to DNA damage–induced killing, indicating that Fhit and the CHK1 pathway have opposing roles in cells responding to DNA damage. In this study, we show that cells, with or without Fhit expression, have similar DNA double-strand break induction levels and similar rejoining rates following ionizing radiation, indicating that the effect of Fhit on cell radiosensitivity is independent of nonhomologous end-joining. By combining I-SceI–induced-DNA double-strand break system and small interfering RNA approach, we also show that knocking down Fhit increases the efficiency of homologous recombination repair of cells, but knocking down Chk1 decreases the efficiency of homologous recombination repair, associated with the sensitivity to ionizing radiation–induced killing. Taken together, the results show that the role of Fhit in affecting the sensitivity of cells to ionizing radiation–induced killing is through the CHK1 pathway linked to homologous recombination repair. These results also illustrate the importance of balanced checkpoint activation in genomic stability and suggest a connection between the radioresistance and mutagenesis, carcinogenesis, as well as tumor progression in Fhit-deficient cells or tissue.
Successful Radiofrequency Ablation in Patients With Previous Atrial Fibrillation Results in a Significant Decrease in Left Atrial Size
Authors: Beukema Willem P. , Elvan Arif , Sie Hauw T. , Ramdat Misier Anand R. , Wellens Hein J.J.
Published: October 2005

Background—

The objective of the present study was to evaluate the relation between freedom from atrial fibrillation (AF) and left atrial (LA) size in patients who underwent circumferential pulmonary vein (PV) isolation and LA ablation.

Methods and Results—

One hundred five consecutive patients with symptomatic and drug-refractory paroxysmal or persistent AF were included in the present study. The mean age was 52±9.5 years (range, 27 to 75 years); 74 patients (70%) were male. Paroxysmal AF was present in 52 (49.5%) and persistent AF in 53 (50.5%) patients. Mean AF duration was 6.0±5.1 years in the paroxysmal AF group and 7.6±6.0 years in the persistent AF group. A 3D electroanatomic map of the LA including the PV ostia was constructed with a nonfluoroscopic navigation system (Carto, Biosense Webster). Left- and right-sided PVs were encircled by continuous radiofrequency ablation lines. We performed 128 ablation procedures in 105 patients, ie, 23 redo procedures. The mean long-term follow-up duration was 14.6±4.9 months (range, 6 to 24 months). Sinus rhythm was present in 45 patients (86.5%) in the paroxysmal AF group and in 41 patients (77.3%) in the persistent AF group at the latest follow-up. Six months after ablation, LA dimension in the persistent AF subjects who remained in sinus rhythm decreased from 44.0±5.8 to 40±4.5 mm (range, 31 to 51 mm). In contrast, in patients with recurrences of AF, LA dimension increased from 45±6.5 to 49±5.4 mm (range, 32 to 59 mm). In the successfully treated paroxysmal AF group, LA dimension decreased from 40.5±4.4 to 37.5±3.5 mm (
P
<0.01).

Conclusions—

In radiofrequency ablation of AF using an electroanatomic approach, there is a statistically significant relationship between medium-term procedural success and LA size: persistent sinus rhythm is associated with reduced and recurrent AF with increased LA dimensions.
Experimental Validation of a New Ultrasound Method for the Simultaneous Assessment of Radial and Longitudinal Myocardial Deformation Independent of Insonation Angle
Authors: Langeland Stian , D’hooge Jan , Wouters Patrick F. , Leather H. Alex , Claus Piet , Bijnens Bart , Sutherland George R.
Published: October 2005

Background—

Strain and strain rate have been proposed as tools to quantify regional myocardial function. One of the major pitfalls of the current methodology is its angle dependency. To overcome this problem, we have developed a new method for the estimation of strain, independent of angle. The aim of this study was to validate this new methodology in an experimental setting using sonomicrometry.

Methods and Results—

In 5 open-chest sheep, ultrasound data were acquired. The new methodology was used to perform simultaneous measurements of radial and longitudinal strain in the inferolateral wall. Segment-length sonomicrometry crystals were used as the reference. After baseline acquisitions, deformation was modulated by pharmacologically changing the inotropic state of the myocardium and by inducing ischemia. Ultrasonically estimated radial and longitudinal strain were validated against sonomicrometry by means of Bland-Altman analysis and the intraclass correlation coefficient. For both strain components, good agreements were found between the ultrasound and the sonomicrometry measurements as shown by Bland-Altman statistics. The intraclass correlation coefficients were found to be 0.72 and 0.80 for the radial and longitudinal components, respectively.

Conclusions—

A new technique for the estimation of myocardial deformation was validated. It was shown that the current problem of angle dependency was solved and that 2 deformation components could be estimated simultaneously and accurately. Furthermore, the technique was less time-consuming, because anatomic tracking was performed automatically. This approach could potentially accelerate the clinical acceptance of ultrasound deformation imaging in cardiology.
Impact of Body Mass and Body Composition on Circulating Levels of Natriuretic Peptides
Authors: Das Sandeep R. , Drazner Mark H. , Dries Daniel L. , Vega Gloria L. , Stanek Harold G. , Abdullah Shuaib M. , Canham Russell M. , Chung Anne K. , Leonard David , Wians Frank H. , de Lemos James A.
Published: October 2005

Background—

The association between higher body mass index (BMI) and lower B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) level is thought to be mediated by expression of the natriuretic peptide clearance receptor (NPR-C) in adipose tissue. To explore this association, we tested 2 hypotheses: (1) that N-terminal (NT)-proBNP, which is not believed to bind NPR-C, would not be associated with BMI and (2) that lower BNP would be more closely associated with fat mass than with lean mass.

Methods and Results—

Measurements of BNP, NT-proBNP, and body composition by direct dual energy x-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) were performed in 2707 subjects from the Dallas Heart Study. The associations between obesity and low BNP (<4 ng/L) or low NT-proBNP (lowest sex-specific quartile) were evaluated with multivariable logistic regression models stratified by sex and adjusted for age, race/ethnicity, hypertension, left ventricular mass, and end-diastolic volume. Higher BMI was independently associated with lower BNP and NT-proBNP (all
P
<0.001). When BMI was replaced with both DEXA-derived lean and fat mass, greater lean mass, but not fat mass, was associated with low BNP and NT-proBNP levels.

Conclusions—

In a large, population-based cohort, we confirm the previously described association between higher BMI and lower BNP and demonstrate a similar inverse association between BMI and NT-proBNP. Interestingly, both BNP and NT-proBNP are more closely associated with lean mass than with fat mass. These findings do not support the hypothesis that the lower BNP levels seen in obesity are driven by enhanced BNP clearance mediated via NPR-C.
Randomized Comparison of Sirolimus-Eluting Stent Versus Standard Stent for Percutaneous Coronary Revascularization in Diabetic Patients
Authors: Sabaté Manel , Jiménez-Quevedo Pilar , Angiolillo Dominick J. , Gómez-Hospital Joan Antoni , Alfonso Fernando , Hernández-Antolín Rosana , Goicolea Javier , Bañuelos Camino , Escaned Javier , Moreno Raúl , Fernández Cristina , Fernández-Avilés Francisco , Macaya Carlos
Published: October 2005

Background—

Outcomes after percutaneous coronary interventions in diabetic patients are shadowed by the increased rate of recurrence compared with nondiabetic patients.

Methods and Results—

We conducted a multicenter, randomized trial to demonstrate the efficacy of sirolimus-eluting stents compared with standard stents to prevent restenosis in diabetic patients with de novo lesions in native coronary arteries. The primary end point of the trial was in-segment late lumen loss as assessed by quantitative coronary angiography at 9-month follow-up. The trial was stratified by diabetes treatment status. One hundred sixty patients were randomized to sirolimus-eluting stents (80 patients; 111 lesions) or standard stent implantation (80 patients; 110 lesions). On average, reference diameter was 2.34±0.6 mm, lesion length was 15.0±8 mm, and 13.1% of lesions were chronic total occlusions. In-segment late lumen loss was reduced from 0.47±0.5 mm for standard stents to 0.06±0.4 mm for sirolimus stents (
P
<0.001). Target-lesion revascularization and major adverse cardiac event rates were significantly lower in the sirolimus group (31.3% versus 7.3% and 36.3% versus 11.3%, respectively; both
P
<0.001). Non–insulin- and insulin-requiring patients demonstrated similar reductions in angiographic and clinical parameters of restenosis after sirolimus-eluting stent implantation. During the 9-month follow-up, stent thrombosis occurred in 2 patients after standard stent implantation. Conversely, this phenomenon was not seen in the sirolimus stent group.

Conclusions—

This randomized trial demonstrated that sirolimus stent implantation is safe and efficacious in reducing both angiographic and clinical parameters of restenosis compared with standard stents in diabetic patients with de novo coronary stenoses.
Understanding Early Mathematical Competencies in American and Chinese Children
Authors: Zhou Zheng , Peverly Stephen T. , Lin Jiasui
Published: October 2005

Most cross-cultural research on Chinese and American children’s early mathematical competencies has focused on their understanding of number and number operations. The present study broadened the range of tasks assessed to include geometric shapes, problem solving and logical reasoning, as well as number and numerical operations, in an effort to determine if: (a) there are within- and cross-culture differences in the development of mathematical knowledge in all domains and (b) the rate/order of development of the four different mathematics skills are comparable across cultures? One- hundred-and-sixty Chinese and US first grade students participated in this study one month after they entered first grade. The results indicated that Chinese and US children’s mathematical knowledge in the domain of numbers and operations is better developed than their mathematical knowledge in the other three domains, Chinese children outperformed American children on almost all tasks in all of the domains and the level of difficulty of mathematics concepts, across culture, seems to be universal (e.g. children’s conceptual knowledge within each of these domains seems to develop in the same order across cultures). The theoretical and educational implications of these results are discussed.
Knowledge and Beliefs about Bullying in Schools
Authors: Bauman Sheri , Del Rio Adrienne
Published: October 2005

A questionnaire assessing knowledge, attitudes and beliefs about bullying used in a study of pre-service teachers in the United Kingdom was replicated on a sample of 82 pre-service teachers in the United States. Results were similar for both groups of pre- service teachers. Participants had some accurate knowledge as well as some beliefs and attitudes that would not be consistent with effective teacher behaviours towards students involved in bullying. Both samples were interested in further training as part of their teacher preparation programs. Implications for training of pre-service teachers are discussed.
The Efficacy of Non-Anonymous Measures of Bullying
Authors: Chan John H. F. , Myron Rowan , Crawshaw Martin
Published: October 2005

The Olweus checklist, along with most of the questionnaires commonly used in bullying research, is anonymous. The respondent is not required to put down his/her name. This has been accepted as the ‘best suited’ method of assessing bullying. However, this assumption has not been adequately tested, and there is contrary evidence that this method is more conducive to obtaining more truthful responses from the respondents. This study tested the issue of anonymity versus non-anonymity experimentally using a balanced design. A total of 562 elementary school children (grades 1-8) from two inner-city schools in Toronto took part in the study. The findings supported the hypotheses that the respondents did not differ in their report of the incidence of either bullying or victimization, regardless of whether they were required to identify themselves by writing down their names on the questionnaire forms. The advantages of using non-anonymous questionnaires in bullying and victimization research, as well as in intervention work in schools, are highlighted.
Teachers’ Perceptions of Underachievement in Elementary Schools in Kuwait
Authors: Al-Sahel Rashed Ali
Published: October 2005

This study focuses on teachers’ perceptions of the problem of underachievement in elementary schools in Kuwait. Five hundred and twenty elementary school teachers participated. Teachers thought that the main reasons behind the problem of under-achievement in school could be attributed to family factors. They also indicated that the most related problems to underachievement in school are reading difficulties and poor writing, homework negligence and daydreaming. However, teachers believed that they are able to help underachievers to become higher achieving students. Comparing teachers’ perceptions of underachievement, the results showed that there were no significant differences between male and female teachers. On the other hand, the results indicated significant differences between subjects according to the teachers’ length of experience and the locations of schools.
The Applicability of Curriculum-Based Measurement to Measure Reading in Hebrew
Authors: Kaminitz-Berkooz Iris , Shapiro Edward S.
Published: October 2005

This study was an initial effort to examine the applicability of Curriculum Based Measurement (CBM) procedures to measure reading in a language other than English and more specifically, in Hebrew. Participants included a sample of 458 students from grades 1-5 from three elementary schools in Israel, 416 from regular education and 42 students from grades 2-5 who were receiving special services in reading. Students were tested on CBM probes in the winter and spring of the 2002 academic year. Four characteristics of the CBM measure were evaluated: (1) concurrent validity with two reading sub-scales (decoding and comprehension) of the Kaufman-ABC that had been translated and normed in Israel; (2) student outcomes in reading fluency across grades and across time within grades; (3) ability of the measure to discriminate students with and without reading problems and (4) the sensitivity of the measure when used weekly for progress monitoring. Results indicated that moderate to strong correlation coefficients were evident between CBM scores and the K-ABC reading subscales except for grade 4 in the spring. Also, students showed increased growth across grades and across time within the school year, except for a lack of increase from grade 2 to 3 in the spring. Students receiving specialized help for reading scored significantly lower on CBM probes when compared with regular education students. Finally, a gradual week-by-week progress rate in the curriculum comparable to those found with CBM reading in English was also found. Results suggest that the oral reading fluency metric may be applicable to evaluating reading in Hebrew. Implications for the use of the metric in other countries and languages are discussed.
Industrial Relations at European Sector Level: The Weak Link?
Authors: Marginson Paul
Published: October 2005

The sector level remains the least developed element of the emerging European-level industrial relations framework. Insofar as a sector-level dimension is emerging, it is along two main tracks. The first, through the sector social dialogue, is resulting in ‘soft’ forms of regulation. The second, driven forward by trade unions, comprises cross-border bargaining coordination initiatives. The relative prominence of social dialogue and coordinated bargaining, respectively, differs markedly between sectors. Coordinated bargaining and framework agreements adopted through social dialogue involve daunting challenges of implementation, relying as they do on the voluntary cooperation, commitment and actions of the European- and national-level actors involved. Prospects for both tracks are assessed, and the challenges arising from EU enlargement identified.
Modell Deutschland under Pressure: The Growing Tensions between Works Councils and Trade Unions
Authors: Whittall Michael
Published: October 2005

This article studies the current malaise of German industrial relations in the face of increased international competition, regional economic integration, the cost of unification and high unemployment. This article contends that the difficulties faced by Modell Deutschland are reflected in a growing tension between works councils and trade union interests. The argument is based on a longitudinal study of changes in working time patterns at the very successful German automobile producer, BMW, as well as a discussion of ‘open clauses’ and plant-level deviations from collective agreements, mainly in the metalworking sector but not exclusively.
The Control Structure of Team-Based Organizations: A Diagnostic Model for Empowerment
Authors: Kuipers Ben S. , de Witte Marco C.
Published: October 2005

This article describes a diagnostic model for empowerment in team- based organizations that portrays four dimensions of the organization’s control structure: the level of routine, the nature of expertise, the level of dependence and the line of command. The combined positions of the set of job regulation tasks distinguished for these dimensions express empowerment in terms of a functional balance and a balance of authority. The diagnostic model can be used to measure the control structure in practice and to provide input for a well-founded and managerial debate on empowerment and control. The model is illustrated with quantitative data from a pilot study of 16 semi-autonomous work teams within the manufacturing industry. Considerable differences in the local interpretation of the design of the control structure by team managers were observed.

In general, the empowerment of teams is rather limited. The impression given is that there is a temporary ‘double control structure’, meaning simultaneous bottom-up and top-down control of the teams.
A Researcher’s Guide to Worker Participation, Labor and Economic and Industrial Democracy
Authors: Deutsch Steven
Published: October 2005

This article gives a profile of the development in the field of worker participation and economic and industrial democracy within an international framework. Shifts in governmental and private policies and strategic approaches are discussed. This includes union approaches and worker training efforts.
Self-management in African American Women With Diabetes
Authors: Montague Mamie C. , Nichols Sheryl A. , Dutta Arjun P.
Published: October 2005

Purpose

This study describes demographic and medical characteristics, self-efficacy, locus of control, self-managementd defined by functional status, hemoglobin HbA1c outcomes, and the relationships among these variables based on age group differences (25-44 years, 45-64 years, and 65-84 years) in African American women with type 2 diabetes.

Methods

Subjects (n = 75) in community medical practices were interviewed to complete a demographic and medical form, the Diabetes Self-efficacy Outcomes Expectancy Questionnaire (DSEQ), the Diabetes Locus of Control Scale, and the Medical Outcomes–Short Form 36 (SF-36). A venous blood sample was taken following the interview. Data were analyzed for the total sample and separately for age groups.

Results

Scores on the self efficacy (DSEQ) and the locus of control (LOC) were above average for all 3 groups. Significant correlations were found among subscales of the LOC, SF-36, and HbA1c. HbA1c scores were abnormally high across groups. Significant group differences were found in duration of diabetes and number of medications used.

Conclusions

Despite high levels of internal locus of control and self-efficacy and scores indicating good mental, physical, emotional, and social health, self-management amongthe women was inadequate, as indicated by abnormally high HbA1c levels.
Revised 2005 Diabetes Quality Improvement Checklist
Authors: Wylie-Rosett Judith , Tobin Jonathan N. , Davis Nichola
Published: October 2005

The initial 1992 Diabetes Quality Assurance (DQA) Checklist was developed as a tool to facilitate chart auditing for evaluating clinician adherence to the current quality-of-care standards. This article describes how the authors revised and updated the 1992 DQA Checklist to incorporate more recent evidence related to clinical interventions that improve outcome. The revised version is designed to address the 2005 American Diabetes Association Standards for Medical Care. Additional changes were made to facilitate the review process. The revised instrument has been named the Revised 2005 Diabetes Quality Improvement (DQI) Checklist to reflect the emphasis on its potential use in quality improvement activities. The 2005 DQI Checklist is an updated version of the original 1992 DQA Checklist, with additional modifications based on the 2005 American Diabetes Association Standards of Medical Care, the National Cholesterol Education Program Adult Treatment Panel III, the Seventh Joint National Committee on the Prevention, Detection and Treatment of High Blood Pressure Guidelines, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Adult Immunizations Guidelines.
Patient-Provider Communication and Self-care Behavior Among Type 2 Diabetes Patients
Authors: Aikens James E. , Bingham Raymond , Piette John D.
Published: October 2005

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to determine whether diabetes self-care behaviors mediate the association between patient-provider communication (PPC) and diabetes outcomes.

Methods

An ethnically diverse sample of 752 patients with type 2 diabetes was recruited from 3 different health systems. Subjects were interviewed by telephone about their general and diabetes-specific PPC, diabetes self-care behaviors (medication use, glucose testing, eating, and physical activity), and functional status (physical and mental). Glycemic control was assessed with the HbA1c assay. Statistical tests of the hypothetical path model were adjusted for age, gender, marital status, income, ethnicity, medication regimen, and number of comorbid conditions.

Results

General PPC was associated with mental functioning and physical functioning, and diabetes-specific PPC was associated with glycemic control. However, these associations were not mediated by self-care behaviors, which were independently associated with diabetes outcomes.

Conclusions

Although self-care and PPC are both important determinants of diabetes patients' health status, these effects are independent. Thus, attempts to improve diabetes outcomes must focus on both good communication and the direct enhancement of illness self-management behaviors.
Feasibility and Effectiveness of System Redesign for Diabetes Care Management in Rural Areas
Authors: Bray Paul , Roupe Melissa , Young Sandra , Harrell Jolynn , Cummings Doyle M. , Whetstone Lauren M.
Published: October 2005

Purpose

Redesigning the system of care for the management of patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus has not been well studied in rural communities with a significant minority population and limited health care resources. This study assesses the feasibility and potential for cost-effectiveness of restructuring care in rural fee-for-service practices for predominantly minority patients with diabetes mellitus.

Methods

This was a feasibility study of implementing case management, group visits, and electronic registry in 5 solo or small group primary care practices in rural North Carolina. The subjects were 314 patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (mean age = 61 years; 72% African American; 54% female). An advanced practice nurse visited each practice weekly for 12 months, provided intensive diabetes case management, and facilitated a 4-session group visit educational program. An electronic diabetes registry and visit reminder systems were implemented.

Results

There was an improvement in the percentage of patients achieving diabetes management goals and an improvement in productivity and billable encounters. The percentage of patients with a documented self-management goal increased from 0% to 42%, a currently documented lipid panel from 55% to 76%, currently documented aspirin use from 25% to 37%, and currently documented foot examination from 12% to 54%. The average daily encounter rate improved from 20.17 to 31.55 on intervention days.

Conclusions

A redesigned care delivery system that uses case management with structured group visits and an electronic registry can be successfully incorporated into rural primary care practices and appears to significantly improve both care processes and practice productivity.
Continuous Glucose Monitoring Has Left the Station
Authors: Valentine Virginia
Published: October 2005

Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) is a new technology that is poised to dramatically alter the practice of managing diabetes in the near future. To understand the potential utility of CGM in clinical practice, the goal for monitoring glucose must be redefined. Is obtaining a mere snapshot of the current blood glucose level a satisfactory goal? This differs substantially from a more comprehensive assessment of the patient’s current (and immediate future) glycemic status that could be gained through real-time continuous monitoring. The diabetes educator will play a critical role in introducing and implementing the next generation of real-time CGM systems.
Domestic Violence and Health Care: Opening Pandora’s Box - Challenges and Dilemmas
Authors: Lavis Victoria , Horrocks Christine , Kelly Nancy , Barker Val
Published: October 2005

In this article we take a critical stance toward the rational progressive narrative surrounding the integration of domestic violence within health care. While changes in recent UK policy and practice have resulted in several tangible benefits, it is argued that there may be hidden dilemmas and challenges. We suggest that the medical model of care and its discursive practices position women as individually accountable for domestic violence-related symptoms and injuries. This may not only be ineffective in terms of service provision but could also have the potential to reduce the political significance of domestic violence as an issue of concern for all women. Furthermore, it is argued that the use of specific metaphors enables practitioners to distance themselves from interactions that may prove to be less comfortable and provide less than certain outcomes. Our analysis explores the possibilities for change that might currently be available. This would appear to involve a consideration of alternative discourses and the reformulation of power relations and subject positions in health care.
Timing Motherhood: Experiencing and Narrating the Choice to Become a Mother
Authors: Sevón Eija
Published: October 2005

The decision to become a mother is a multilayered process that is not wholly rational, clear-cut, or conscious. The aim of this study is to present four different stories about the choice of becoming a mother collected from pregnant women living in heterosexual relationships. The women’s stories are explored through the desires and ambivalences of embodied, relational and emotional female subjects. Crucial to the choice of becoming a mother are: first, the timing of motherhood, which is attached to social and cultural narratives concerning ‘good’ mothering and a ‘reasonable’ female life course; second, the ambivalences encountered in choosing to become a mother; and, third, the link between the heterosexual relationship and its quality and the choice of becoming a mother.
Changing mental models: Business simulation exercises
Authors: Scherpereel Christopher M.
Published: October 2005

The effectiveness of business simulation exercises in uncovering the interconnectedness of business decisions has been explored in the literature. Little research has been done, however, to quantify empirically how simply identifying connections can change the decision maker’s perceptions and actions. This research exposes the process by which business simulations bring about these changes. Using the semantic differential technique and a one-group pretest-posttest design, tests are conducted to assess perceptual changes in problem characterization and approach induced by participation in a business simulation exercise. The results presented provide quantifiable justification for the use of business simulation exercises to induce targeted change in a decision maker’s mental models. In addition, business simulation designers are offered a powerful feedback tool that allows them to customize decision parameters and confirm the desired participant impact has been achieved.
Developing teams using the Kolb Team Learning Experience
Authors: Kayes Anna B. , Kayes D. Christopher , Kolb David A.
Published: October 2005

This article shows how the Kolb Team Learning Experience (KTLE) simulation has been used by teams to enhance learning. The KTLE includes seven modules: (a) introduction, (b) team purpose, (c) team membership, (d) team roles, (e) team process, (f) team context, and (g) team action. Each of these modules takes a team through the process of team learning: creating, planning, deciding, and acting (or, in technical terms, diverging, assimilating, converging, and accommodating). The authors describe the simulation and provide examples from teams that have engaged in it.
Teaching business ethics: Integrity
Authors: Teach Richard D. , Christensen Sandra L. , Schwartz Robert G.
Published: October 2005

This article offers a background of ethical theory and practice that has led the authors to develop a new game as an aid to teaching business ethics. The literature on teaching business ethics points out the dearth of work on integrity in business. This article argues that it is integrity that is at the heart of business ethics and that there is a clear need for a game that helps instructors reach that very slippery concept.
How students cope with part-time study
Authors: Kember David , Ying Chan Kwok , Wan Chan Shun , Yung Chan Siu , Wai Chan Tze , Mui Chang Yuk , Wing Cheung Kwong , Heung Lau Kwai , Sam Lee Lai , Chi Lee Wai , Wanze Li Wing Sze , Chuen Tam Kam , Anne Tang Oi Yin , Chu Tse Lin , Jason Tse Wai
Published: October 2005

This study provides a qualitative test and illustration of a model of how students cope with the demands of part-time study. The model shows that students who are successful in finding the time to complete the requirements of part-time courses do so by adopting three mechanisms; sacrifice, support and the negotiation of arrangements. All three mechanisms operate in four domains, namely work, family, social lives and the self. The mechanisms and domains were related together in a three by four matrix. Data to verify and illuminate the model were gathered by the researchers through an on-line forum discussion on the topic of coping with part-time study. The researchers themselves were studying part-time in a course called Adult Education and Professional Development. Analysis of the data showed that the work domain was very important but little adaptation was possible. The family was seen as the most important domain and all three mechanisms were used. Time was commonly found for part-time study by sacrificing social lives. The self-domain was interpreted as important in establishing motivation and self-determination.
Changing roles and competencies of academics
Authors: Briggs Senga
Published: October 2005

This article presents the findings of a small study in a single school of a post-1992 university. The study considered the roles of the online academic and ascertained perceived competencies in these roles. The findings suggest gender differences in perceptions of the importance of online roles and gaps between roles and perceived competencies in these roles, suggesting some academics feel ill-equipped to meet online demands. The study indicates that appropriate learning and development programmes underpinned by relevant competency development are required. Notwithstanding, when asked to identify differences in roles and competencies in online and traditional environments, respondents indicated that their roles were similar in both environments. This suggested that a new ‘generic’ framework for academic roles and competencies was needed. The study then moved to develop a generic role model for use in all learning and teaching environments.
Should Muslim headscarves be banned in French schools?
Authors: Gereluk Dianne
Published: October 2005

The recent ban of ‘conspicuous’ religious symbols in French state schools has received international attention, especially the uncertainty of whether Muslims will comply with the ban. The issue, however, raises a number of philosophical dilemmas regarding toleration in a liberal democracy, the notion of a ‘neutral’ public space in state schools and the protection of girls’ rights in traditional communities. I examine each issue accordingly and argue that the French state is unjustified in banning religious symbols.
Feminist critique of developmentalism
Authors: Spatig Linda
Published: October 2005

Drawing on published feminist literature, this essay deconstructs developmentalism as a metanarrative that contributes to the oppression and exploitation of women and underpins educational practice. First, I examine feminist critiques of developmentalism, distinguishing between ‘insider critiques’ formulated by feminist psychologists evaluating and trying to improve traditional theories of human development and ‘outsider critiques’ articulated by feminists, both within and outside psychology, challenging science itself. Second, I address educational implications of the insider and outsider critiques of developmentalism. Educational reforms spawned by insider feminist critiques consist largely of efforts to make curriculum and pedagogy more ‘girl-friendly’. Reforms aligned with outsider feminist critiques call for ‘critique-friendly’ schooling that provides opportunities for reconceptualizing gender dualisms, critiquing school practices that strengthen dualisms and ongoing critique of educational reforms initiated in the name of such critiques. Following the outside critiques, I argue for feminist learning communities with authentic relationships between teachers and students whose diverse and changing identities and ideas are respectfully and compassionately acknowledged.
Fe3+-K-10 Montmorillonite Clay Catalyzed Friedel–Crafts Reaction of Unactivated Baylis–Hillman Adducts: An Efficient Stereoselective Synthesis of Trisubstituted Alkenes Containing a Benzyl Substituent
Authors: Das Biswanath , Majhi Anjoy , Banerjee Joydeep , Chowdhury Nikhil , Venkateswarlu Katta
Published: October 2005

The stereoselective synthesis of trisubstituted alkenes containing a benzyl substituent has been achieved by employing Friedel–Craft reaction of aromatic compounds with unactivated Baylis–Hillman adducts in the presence of Fe3+-K-10 montmorillonite clay as a heterogeneous catalyst. The catalyst can be recovered and reused.
Montmorillonite K10 Clay-catalyzed Synthesis of Substituted 1-Aryl Indenes from Baylis–Hillman Adducts
Authors: Shanmugam Ponnusamy , Rajasingh Paramasivan
Published: October 2005

An eco-friend method for the synthesis of 1-aryl indenes from Baylis–Hillman adducts using Mont. K10 and microwave combination as catalyst system and a procedure for the synthesis of β-phenyl-substituted-protected Baylis–Hillman adducts with highly Z-selectivity have been reported.
Stereoselective syntheses of functionalized cyclic ethers via (Schiff-base)vanadium(V)-catalyzed oxidations
Authors: Hartung Jens
Published: October 2005

(Schiff-base)vanadium(V) complexes catalyze the oxidation of Br- (formation of Br2) and the stereoselective synthesis of functionalized tetrahydrofurans from substituted bishomoallylic alcohols. In both instances, tert-butyl hydroperoxide (TBHP) serves as primary oxidant. The oxidation of Br- was applied as the key step for stereo- and 6-endo-selectively constructing the 2,2,3,5,6,6-substituted tetrahydropyran nucleus of the marine natural product aplysiapyranoid A starting from an adequately substituted bishomoallylic alcohol. In the absence of Br-, 1-alkyl-, 1-vinyl-, and 1-phenyl-5,5-dimethyl-substituted bishomoallylic alcohols are selectively oxygenated to furnish 2,5-cis-configured tetrahydrofurans as major products. 2- Or 3-substituted ω,ω-dimethyl-substituted bishomoallylic alcohols afford trans-disubstituted tetrahydrofurans under these conditions. Oxidation of substituted 4-penten-1-ols, i.e., substrates with a terminal π-bond, proceeds with a preference for formation of trans-disubstituted tetrahydrofurans. According to data from (i) 51V NMR spectroscopy, (ii) mass spectrometry, (iii) a structure-selectivity survey, (iv) competition kinetics, and (v) a stereochemical analysis, the oxygen atom transfer onto a bishomoallylic alcohol occurs in a peroxide- and alkenol-loaded (Schiff-base)vanadium(V) complex.
New developments of insulinomimetic dinuclear vanadyl(IV)-tartrate complexes
Authors: Sakurai Hiromu , Funakoshi Satoko , Adachi Yusuke
Published: October 2005

The number of patients suffering from diabetes mellitus (DM) is increasing year by year throughout the world. In 2003, the world population was 6.3 billion, and the number of patients with DM in the adult population (20-79 years old) was 0.194 billion, which corresponded to 5.1 % of all disease incidence in that age range. In 2005, it is forecasted that the world population will increase to 8.0 billion and the ratio of DM to total disease incidence will increase to 6.3 %, with a disproportionate number of cases in Southeast Asia, the West Pacific, Central Asia, and North, Central, and South America. To treat Type 1 and Type 2 DM clinically, insulin preparations and synthetic drugs, respectively, have been used. However, these treatments are associated with some problems, such as several times of daily insulin injections following blood glucose monitoring and side effects in the case of the synthetic drugs. Consequently, a new class of therapeutic compounds is anticipated. After many trials, vanadium-containing complexes have been proposed to improve and treat both types of DM by in vivo experiments. We present an overview of insulinomimetic and antidiabetic vanadyl (+4 vanadium, V) complexes, and propose new candidates for dinuclear vanadyl complexes with naturally occurring ligands. The current state of research on the dinuclear vanadyl(IV)-tartrate complexes is described in regard to the physicochemical characteristics, in vitro insulinomimetic and in vivo blood-glucose-lowering effects of the prepared complexes.
Emission Spectrometric Determination of Trace Elements in Biological Fluids
Authors: Niedermeier William , Griggs James H. , Johnson Richard S.
Published: October 2005

An emission spectrometric method of analysis is described, in which trace quantities of copper, iron, aluminum, barium, manganese, nickel, cesium, tin, strontium, chromium, zinc, lead, molybdenum, and cadmium were determined in blood serum. The sample preparation, starting with 2.0 ml of blood serum, is discussed in detail. The source of excitation was a 10 A dc arc. Quantitation was achieved with a direct reading emission spectrometer. The metal concentration, in micrograms per 100 ml of blood serum, was calculated from the experimental data by means of a computer.