bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Determination of Thermal Diffusivity of Construction Materials
Authors: Low B-H , Tan S-A , Fwa T-F
Published: February 2009

This paper describes a simple and rapid laboratory method for the measurement of the thermal diffusivity of construction materials by heat conduction in short cylindrical specimens. The technique is relatively simple and requires only the measurement of the temperature history at the midpoint of the specimen during heating and cooling in a constant thermal bath using an imbedded thermocouple. A unique theoretical solution is produced for transient heat conduction in a short cylinder which permits the deduction of the thermal diffusivity by curve fitting the experimental data to the theoretical curve. The solution takes into account the variation of cylinder heights and is specialized for specimens of 100 mm fixed diameter and conductivities in the range of 0.5 to 3.0 W/m-K. This solution is commonly applicable to construction materials such as asphaltic concrete, portland cement concrete, portland cement, and brick. Diffusivity is determined by a three-point fitting between experimental data and theoretical solution that verifies the consistency of the value obtained. Experiments for three types of materials, namely, asphaltic concrete, portland cement concrete, and hardened portland cement, are performed to validate the procedure.
Methods of Determining Subcritical Crack Growth by Static Lifetime Tests with Natural and Artificial Cracks
Authors: Fett T , Munz D
Published: February 2009

Different procedures are described for evaluating v-KI curves of subcritical crack growth from lifetime measurements under static load for natural and artificial cracks. The lifetimes for a 99.6% A12O3 are evaluated as an example of application. Results for small natural cracks and artificial Knoop cracks are compared, and a rather good agreement of the v-K curves is observed.
Analysis of Large Diameter High-Density Polyethylene Plastic Pipes As Vertical Shafts in Landfills
Authors: Hossain MK , Lytton RL
Published: February 2009

The recent trend in the increasing use of large diameter flexible plastic pipes as vertical shafts or manholes in landfills or hazardous waste containment areas has resulted in a need for a thorough understanding of the soil-structure interaction of these pipes for the purpose of design. In this paper the soil-structure interaction response of flexible vertical shafts in landfills is described. A plane strain finite element program is modified and converted into an axisymmetric finite element program which then is used to determine the displacements and stresses in the pipe and the surrounding fill. The analysis is comprehensive, considering the effects of incremental construction, compaction, and creep of the pipe and the fill material. The calculated responses of the finite element analysis are illustrated in a number of graphs which demonstrate how the lateral earth pressure, hoop stress and strain, vertical stress and strain, and vertical thrust in the pipe wall vary with the design variables. The variables are the pipe diameter and thickness, compaction level, duration of construction time, and fill depth. It is found that as the height of the pipe and fill increase, a stronger schedule of pipe needs to be used to prevent buckling. The hoop strain at the bottom of the pipe is the critical design element, since it is the only pipe response that increases with the soil and pipe creep.
Creep-Fatigue Interaction in T11 Boiler Tube Steel
Authors: Miller GA , Marder AR , Holt SD , Voorhees HR
Published: February 2009

This study was undertaken to assess the damage to the mechanical properties of T1l boiler tube steel resulting from about 200 000 h of service. Test results at 1000°F show that the service exposure degrades all strength properties. Tensile strength decreased from 60 to 37 ksi, 1000-h creep strength from 33 to 17 ksi, and fatigue strength (stress ratio = 0.1, life = 200 000 cycles) from 42 to 28 ksi. Also, there was a highly deleterious creep-fatigue interaction, with only 5% fatigue damage reducing creep rupture life by up to a factor of five. Property degradation was accompanied by the formation of voids and a change in the carbide morphology. These findings demonstrate the necessity for accounting for the creep-fatigue interaction in assessing the remaining life of utility components.
Ceramic Hardness
Authors: Quinn GD
Published: February 2009

This book was written with the aim of increasing the awareness of materials scientists, metallurgists, and engineers of recent developments in hardness testing of modern ceramics. Hardness is not a unique property, but is a response of the material to a specific indentor and test conditions. Several models of hardness are presented including simplified elastic or elastic plastic models, which set bounds upon the hardness limits. The sensitivity of hardness to crystallographic influences is well covered. The book covers the common test methods such as Mohs, Rockwell, Vickers, and Knoop, as well as less well known methods such as Berkovich and scratch hardness. Substantial progress has been made in recent years in utilization of microindentation methods to study fracture toughness, residual stress surface layers, and wear processes in ceramics.
Engineering Project Management
Authors: Shuman EC
Published: February 2009

Engineering Project Management is part of a series on Cost Engineering. While the book is relatively short, 246 pages, the author has presented a wide range of details on many typical projects that are worthy of study by persons in managerial positions or who are inspired to become an effective manager. In a Preface, Blanchard gives reasons for the principles that are presented, but points out that there are so many ramifications in each project that answers to questions cannot be given like “recipes in a cookbook”. Many terms are defined, including project.
An Introduction to the Development and Use of the Master Curve Method
Authors: McCabe DE , Merkle JG , Wallin K
Published: February 2009

Description

This new ASTM manual introduces the concept of the Master Curve Method so it can be understood and used by engineers who have had limited exposure to elastic-plastic fracture mechanics and/or advanced statistical methods. It addresses the practical design-related problem of defining the ductile-to-brittle fracture transition temperature of structural steels directly in terms of fracture mechanics data.

Topics cover:
Steel Forgings: Design, Production, Selection, Testing, and Application
Authors: Nisbett EG
Published: February 2009

Description

Manual 53 is a comprehensive, in-depth publication that covers the full range and scope of steel forgings. Twenty-two comprehensive chapters discuss:

• Background information on the classification of forgings according to the method of manufacture:

• Importance of steel production methods in establishing the expected properties:

• A critical review of over 60 ASTM forging standards covering applications as diverse as railroad and power generation equipment, pressure vessel components, and a wide range of general industrial equipment

• The effect of various types of forging operations relative to soundness and application

• Specialized nondestructive testing methods developed for forgings

• Economic and quality factors regarding the choice between forgings and other steel product forms

• Special considerations in the heat treatment of forgings

• Pros and cons of the timing of machining and the effect of test specimen location on the anticipated mechanical properties of the forging

• Surface treatments for enhancing forging performance and life

• Forging flaws and examples of service problems

Manual 53 is both a practical and vital resource for design engineers; purchasing managers; manufacturers of pressure vessels, turbines, and generators; metallurgical engineers; university professors, and lawyers.
Malaysia in 2008: The Elections That Broke the Tiger's Back
Authors: Singh Bilveer
Published: February 2009

The March 2008 general elections fundamentally altered Malaysian politics. The ruling coalition lost its two-thirds majority in the national Parliament and five state assemblies, and Prime Minister Abdullah was forced to announce his resignation. The opposition also stands the chance of forming the national government in the near future.
Myanmar in 2008: Hardship, Compounded
Authors: Seekins Donald M.
Published: February 2009

Cyclone Nargis struck Burma's Irrawaddy Delta on May 2–3, 2008, and claimed as many as 140,000 victims, the largest natural disaster in the country's history. However, the State Peace and Development Council proceeded with a referendum on a new constitution on May 10 and 24, which it claimed was approved by an overwhelming majority of voters.
The Philippines in 2008: Peace-building, War-fighting, and Crisis Management
Authors: Hicken Allen
Published: February 2009

In 2008 the big developments in the Philippines were the signing of a historic and controversial agreement with Muslim rebels, the subsequent scuttling of that agreement by the Supreme Court, and a resumption of hostilities between the government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF). Meanwhile, the embattled Arroyo government worked to respond to a series of economic and natural disasters.
Cambodia in 2008: Consolidation in the Midst of Crisis
Authors: Hughes Caroline
Published: February 2009

The Cambodian People's Party (CPP) consolidated legislative control with a decisive election victory in 2008. Four contributing factors are identified: CPP control of local authorities who can deliver the vote, its marginalization of the opposition, the mass patronage enabled by an economic boom, and exploitation of a border dispute with Thailand.
El “cacao guayaquil” en Nueva España. Siglo XVIII
Authors: Grijalva Manuel Miño
Published: February 2009

This article analyzes the presence of cacao guayaquil in New Spain's market and shows that one of the first things that cacao trade made evident is that the Crown's prohibition did not stop the exportation of cacao, although it did restrain its growth. It establishes the maritime traffic, the amounts of cacao loads that arrived in Acapulco and the prices in the market in Mexico City. It also demonstrates that the increasing supply of cacao guayaquil helped to maintain prices stable within a general context of rising prices along the second half of the 18th century.
El mestizaje a través de la frontera: Vasconcelos y Anzaldúa
Authors: Medina Rubén
Published: February 2009

Este artículo examina dos distintas elaboraciones del mestizaje durante el siglo XX, dentro del contexto de los discursos raciales que emergen con la conquista de México, con el fin de constituir el sujeto colonial y la revisión crítica del mestizaje de Sergei Gruzinski. El análisis se enfoca particularmente en las contradicciones del discurso de José Vasconcelos respecto a sus ideas de las “razas” y sus implicaciones en la elaboración del mestizaje, y en la perspectiva de Gloria Anzaldúa del mestizaje a la vez como auto-diseño y como un proceso orgánico de mezcla cultural.
Out of the Plaza and into the Office: Social Movement Leaders in the PRD
Authors: Özler Ş. İlgü
Published: February 2009

Former social movement activists play a key role within the Mexican Party of the Democratic Revolution (PRD), yet little is known about the experiences of these social movement activists turned partisans since the party's consolidation and rise to national prominence. This study details how these actors struggle with ideological and strategic questions and the party's relationship with the social movement organizations from which they came. While ideological ambiguities within the party serve as a source of frustration for ex-social movement leaders, the strategic benefits of partisan involvement motivate them to continue with the party.
Time for (a Reading) Community? The Border Literary Field(s) in the 1980s and 1990s
Authors: Fallon Paul
Published: February 2009

This essay analyzes how, marginalized by national literatures and threatened by the rise of regional mass media in the 1980s and 1990s, northern Mexican border authors and their texts consistently concerned themselves with the temporalities of representation—particularly in literary narrative. Through their treatment of temporal issues, these writers directed themselves toward a local, transnational reading community and enacted a critical regionalism that articulates local signification within larger processes reshaping the role of literature in contemporary Latin America.
Immigrant Entrepreneurs, Bread, and Class Negotiation in Postrevolutionary Mexico City
Authors: Weis Robert
Published: February 2009

Spanish bakery owners in Mexico City acted as middlemen in the postrevolutionary regime's food and labor policies, despite their association with colonialism and the Porfirian order. Lacking leverage to control unilaterally bread production and the combative bakery workforce, the state relied on the mostly Basque owners to keep the city fed and worker radicalism in check. In exchange, officials broke strikes and later, when the bakers'union and owners negotiated a labor contract, persecuted Mexican small producers. The bakery struggles underscore how the negotiations between the state, labor, and capital sustained monopolies and created “formal” markets.
Production of normal mice from spermatozoa denatured with high alkali treatment before ICSI
Authors: Li Chong , Mizutani Eiji , Ono Tetsuo , Wakayama Teruhiko
Published: February 2009

In mammals, ICSI is now a very important tool for both assisted reproductive technology and studying the mechanisms of fertilization. In the latter experiments, it is important to use spermatozoa that have lost their oocyte activation capacity but still retain their developmental potential. In this study, we used high-concentration NaOH to remove oocyte activation potential from spermatozoa, and examined whether normal offspring could be generated from these spermatozoa after ICSI. The spermatozoa were treated with different concentrations of NaOH (1–100 mM) for 1 h and then neutralized with equal amounts of same concentration of HCl. In 10 mM NaOH-treated spermatozoa, the cell membrane was broken and most of them failed to activate oocytes after their injection into the oocytes. However, these spermatozoa did not show strong damage, and after artificial activation with SrCl2, all of the zygotes were judged as normal by immunostaining to check the methylation status of histone H3 lysine 9, low chromosome damage by karyotype assay and staining with DNA double-strand breaks marker, γH2AX. Moreover, after transferring those embryos into recipient females, 106 (36.7%) live and healthy offspring were delivered, which is similar to the rate in the fresh control group. By contrast, spermatozoa treated with lower NaOH concentrations retained their oocyte activation capacity and those treated with higher concentrations lost their developmental potential. This suggests that 10 mM NaOH for 1 h is the best treatment to completely destroy the cell membrane and activation capacity of spermatozoa without injuring their developmental potential.
Effect of Ropinirole on Sleep Outcomes in Patients with Restless Legs Syndrome: Meta‐Analysis of Pooled Individual Patient Data from Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Hansen Richard A. , Song Liping , Moore Charity G. , Gilsenan Alicia W. , Kim Mimi M. , Calloway Michael O. , Murray Michael D.
Published: February 2009

Study Objective. To compare the effects of ropinirole with those of placebo on sleep, as evaluated by specific domains of the Medical Outcomes Study (MOS) sleep scale, as well as the Clinical Global Impression‐Improvement (CGI‐I) scale, in patients with restless legs syndrome (RLS).

Design. Meta‐analysis of six randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, parallel‐group trials conducted in the United States and Europe.

Patients. A total of 1679 patients aged 18–79 years with primary moderate‐to‐severe RLS who received ropinirole (835 patients) or placebo (844 patients).

Measurements and Main Results. A systematic review of MEDLINE (January 1980‐January 2007) and clinical trial registers was performed to identify placebo‐controlled trials of ropinirole that used the 12‐item MOS sleep scale to assess sleep in patients with RLS. Individual patient data from both published and nonpublished trials were pooled for meta‐analysis. In the eligible studies, immediate‐release ropinirole 0.25‐6 mg or placebo had been given for at least 12 weeks. In addition, sleep scale summary scores for the domains of sleep quantity, adequacy, disturbance, and daytime somnolence had to have been assessed at baseline and at 12 weeks. Our meta‐analysis found that at baseline study patients slept an average of 5.8 hours/night. At the end of 12 weeks, ropinirole‐treated patients slept a mean of 2.5 hours/week more and had a 21% greater improvement from baseline in sleep adequacy scores compared with patients receiving placebo. Ropinirole‐treated patients also had 14% less sleep disturbance and 8% less daytime somnolence than patients receiving placebo. Clinicians rated 63% of ropinirole‐treated patients and 47% of patients receiving placebo as responders based on the CGI‐I scale. Mixed effects analysis of covariance was used to estimate treatment effect adjusting for study center as a random effect, as well as the following fixed effects known to affect sleep: baseline sleep characteristics, age, sex, and chronic medical conditions. All differences were statistically significant (p<0.05), even after adjusting for multiple comparisons.

Conclusion. Pooled data from six similarly designed clinical trials provide evidence that ropinirole improves sleep quantity and adequacy, and lessens sleep disturbance and daytime somnolence in patients with primary RLS.
Agents for the Decolonization of Methicillin‐Resistant Staphylococcus aureus
Authors: McConeghy Kevin W. , Mikolich Dennis J. , LaPlante Kerry L.
Published: February 2009

Methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) bacteria are a common cause of hospital‐ and community‐acquired infections. Persons may have asymptomatic colonization with MRSA in the nares, axillae, perineum, or groin. Since MRSA colonization often precedes infection, and infection is associated with significant morbidity and mortality, there is great interest in preventing the transmission of MRSA and decolonizing persons who harbor these bacteria. We provide an evidence‐based review of MRSA decolonization agents. Our search strategy included the databases of the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, MEDLINE (1962‐May 2008), and EMBASE (1980‐May 2008). To identify unpublished trials, abstract books from appropriate major scientific meetings were hand searched, manufacturers were contacted, and pharmacology references were researched for available commercial products, formulations, adverse events, and dosing. The most extensive research in MRSA decolonization has been conducted with mupirocin, which is applied to the anterior nares 2–3 times/day for 5 days. Increased use is correlated to resistance development; therefore, routine decolonization is not prudent unless MRSA colonization is confirmed in the nares or other site. Retapamulin is under investigation for use in nares decolonization. If total body decolonization is necessary, bathing or showering with an antiseptic agent such as chlorhexidine gluconate is recommended in combination with mupirocin applied to the nares to improve the likelihood of eradication. Oral antibiotics have been evaluated for use in decolonization of the skin and nares but should be considered only in conjunction with topical agents and when all other decolonization attempts and environmental controls have been exhausted. Homeopathic and investigational agents may also be effective. Although mupirocin is the standard of care for decolonization of MRSA, several agents demonstrate efficacy and many merit further investigation.
Emerging Role of Capecitabine in Gastric Cancer
Authors: Camella Pasquale , Franco Luca , Casaretti Rossana , de Portu Simona , Menditto Enrica
Published: February 2009

For many years, a regimen of fluorouracil and cisplatin has been the standard of care for the treatment of patients with metastatic gastric cancer. More recently, triplet regimens that incorporate fluorouracil and cisplatin with epirubicin (ECF) or docetaxel are being used in the management of patients with metastatic disease; ECF is also being used as preoperative treatment of resectable disease. Capecitabine, a prodrug of fluorouracil that can be taken orally, has been assessed as an alternative to intravenous fluorouracil and has demonstrated noninferiority to its parent compound. Several trials have demonstrated the safety and efficacy of regimens combining capecitabine with other known active drugs against gastric cancer in doublet and triplet combinations. Oral capecitabine appears to be more convenient to administer than infused fluorouracil because it may obviate the need for central venous access and its associated risk of complications. All of these findings support consideration of capecitabine among the available drug treatment options for patients with metastatic and those with operable gastric cancers.
Severe Allergic Reaction to Hydrochlorothiazide Mimicking Septic Shock
Authors: Mineo Monica C. , Cheng Eugene Y.
Published: February 2009

Hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ) is a sulfonamide‐containing drug with commonly reported adverse effects that include electrolyte abnormalities, orthostatic hypotension, hyperglycemia, and photosensitivity. A few reports have described rare but serious drug complications such as interstitial pneumonitis, angioedema, and aplastic anemia. We describe a patient who experienced a serious HCTZ‐induced adverse event that, to our knowledge, has not yet been reported in the literature. A 78‐year‐old woman came to the emergency department with dyspnea and severe fatigue; her signs and symptoms were suggestive of septic shock from pneumonia. She was treated accordingly, her condition improved, and she was discharged home. During the next 2 months, the patient returned to the emergency department 2 more times and was hospitalized each time with the same diagnosis. During her third admission, it was discovered that the patient's primary care physician had restarted her HCTZ for hypertension after it had been discontinued during each of the first two hospitalizations. The patient's symptoms began within hours of the first and second hospitalizations and almost immediately after taking a dose of HCTZ on the day of the third hospitalization. Her medical history revealed documented allergic reactions to sulfonamide drugs and penicillin; thus a hypersensitivity reaction to HCTZ was suspected. Use of the Naranjo adverse drug reaction probability scale indicated a probable relationship between the patient's hypersensitivity reactions and HCTZ therapy. Because of a lack of evidence showing cross‐reactivity among the different classes of sulfonamides, the mechanism of the allergic reaction to HCTZ was unlikely to be cross‐sensitivity between sulfonamide antibio tics and sulfo namide nonantibiotic drugs. Although the mechanism is not clear, evidence shows that the allergy to the HCTZ (sulfonamide nonantibiotic) may be due to a predisposition to drug allergies rather than sulfonamide cross‐sensitivity. Clinicians should be aware of the potential for these types of allergic reactions.
Cultural Competency in Health Care and Its Implications for Pharmacy
Authors:   American College of Clinical, O'Connell Mary Beth , Rickles Nathaniel M. , Sias Jeri J. , Korner Eli J.
Published: February 2009

As the United States becomes more diverse, a patient's cultural influences on health outcomes and health care decision‐making and delivery need to be considered. Cultural influences affect a patient's decision to take drug therapy and concomitant alternative therapies. Seven components have been identified to improve culturally competent care in a variety of practice sites. The first component to developing culturally competent practices involves the analysis of self and system attitudes and practices toward various cultures. In the second component, health care providers should increase their knowledge about the cultures they serve through different patient assessment techniques, readings, and community activities. The third component involves improving cross‐cultural communication by being aware of differences in social norms, assessing health literacy, using interpreters, knowing another language, and using bilingual patient education materials. In the fourth component, pharmaceutical care plans should accommodate cultural preferences such as the use of herbs, spiritual healers, and additional family decision‐makers. Therapeutic plans should be negotiated between patient and provider to optimize outcomes. The fifth component discusses health care provider and system involvement in the community through health fairs, ethnic festival participation, and communication with cultural decision‐makers to help provide culturally competent care by fostering communication ties. In the sixth component, knowing and following regulations such as the federal Culturally and Linguistically Appropriate Services and the Joint Commission standards for organizational cultural competency can help enhance care for patients from various cultures. In the last component, quality assurance assessments of procedures to improve care for various diverse cultures should be conducted, with findings (in terms of strengths and areas of improvements) shared with other providers and systems. Pharmacists and pharmacy technicians in a variety of systems and practices can improve care to patients with differing cultures by using these seven components to enhance culturally competent care.
The CAIRO and FOCUS Studies: Which Lesson Is to Be Learned?
Authors: Koopman Miriam , Seymour Matthew T. , Punt Cornelis J. A.
Published: February 2009

This letter assesses results presented by Drs. O’Neil and Goldberg in a recent update of clinical trials in metastatic colorectal cancer published in The Oncologist.
Anti-Inflammatory Cream Reduces Skin Damage Induced by Ionizing Radiation
Authors: Simard Philippe F. , Bolton Rachel M. , Tarbell Nancy J.
Published: February 2009

The authors assessed whether the use of a topical anti-inflammatory agent at the radiation entry site would prevent radiation-induced skin damage and found that the use of a topical anti-inflammatory agent, such as one containing 10% trolamine salicylate, may reduce skin damage at the radiation entry site if used prophylactically.
In Reply
Authors: O’Neil Bert H. , Goldberg Richard M.
Published: February 2009

Drs. O’Neil and Goldberg respond to the Koopman et al. letter.
Investments in the Future of Behavioral Science: The University of California, San Francisco, Visiting Professors Program
Authors: Dolcini M. Margaret , Grinstead Reznick Olga A. , Marín Barbara V.
Published: February 2009

A need exists for the promotion of diversity in the scientific workforce to better address health disparities. In response to this need, funding agencies and institutions have developed programs to encourage ethnic-minority and early-career scientists to pursue research careers.

We describe one such program, the University of California, San Francisco, Visiting Professors Program, which trains scientists to conduct HIV/AIDS-related research in communities of color. The program provides training and mentoring in navigating grant processes and developing strong research proposals and provides crucial networking opportunities.

Although this program is focused on community-based HIV prevention, its principles and methods are widely applicable.
Building Partnerships Between Indigenous Communities and Universities: Lessons Learned in HIV/AIDS and Substance Abuse Prevention Research
Authors: Baldwin Julie A. , Johnson Jeannette L. , Benally Christine C.
Published: February 2009

Many HIV/AIDS and substance abuse prevention studies in American Indian and Alaska Native communities have been directed by academic researchers with little community input.

We examined the challenges in conducting HIV/AIDS-related research in American Indian and Alaska Native communities and the benefits of changing the research paradigm to a community-based participatory model. The lessons we learned illustrate that the research process should be a cyclical one with continual involvement by community members. Steps in the process include (1) building and sustaining collaborative relationships, (2) planning the program together, (3) implementing and evaluating the program in culturally acceptable ways, and (4) disseminating research findings from a tribal perspective.

These steps can enhance the long-term capacity of the community to conduct HIV/AIDS and substance abuse prevention research.
Training for Research in Mental Health and HIV/AIDS Among Racial and Ethnic Minority Populations: Meeting the Needs of New Investigators
Authors: Alegría Margarita
Published: February 2009

My experiences as a mentor of young investigators, along with conversations with a diverse pool of mentees, led me to question the ability of conventional research methods, problem formulation, and instruments to address the unique challenges of studying racial and ethnic minorities.

Training of new investi-gators should prepare them to explore alternative research paradigms and atypical research strategies, such as community-based participatory research and Photovoice technique. Unconventional approaches to research may challenge common explanations for unmet needs, noncompliance with treatments, and poor service outcomes. Mentors may need to develop broader theoretical insights that will facilitate unconventional problem formulation.

The teaching of scientific research and mentoring of young investigators who study minority populations should evolve along with the changing research environment.
Leadership Development for Health Researchers at Historically Black Colleges and Universities
Authors: Treadwell Henrie M. , Braithwaite Ronald L. , Braithwaite Kisha , Oliver Desiree , Holliday Rhonda
Published: February 2009

Historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) have traditionally been a magnet for Black students at all levels nationwide and have been an exemplar of mentorship models for preparing leaders in many fields.

A research career development program for junior faculty scholars that leverages the unique strengths of HBCUs has the potential to promote diverse leadership in health research and advance practical understanding of how to address HIV/AIDS and related health challenges that ravage vulnerable communities. A program that creates institutional bonds between HBCUs and other academic institutions can create a groundbreaking framework for more-effective community-based participatory research.

We present a rationale for supporting an HBCU-led collaborative research program, one that both advances junior faculty and explores the interrelationship between HIV/AIDS, mental health, and substance abuse through research in correctional facilities.
Key Issues in Mentoring in HIV Prevention and Mental Health for New Investigators From Underrepresented Racial/Ethnic Groups
Authors: Forsyth Andrew D. , Stoff David
Published: February 2009

We examine the challenges and barriers to quality mentoring for new investigators from underrepresented racial/ethnic groups and propose solutions for establishing a robust pipeline of early-career scientists who are well equipped to conduct research on disparities in HIV and mental health. In addition, we review contributions to this special supplement on mentoring and advocate a multilevel strategy that targets funding agencies, academic and research institutions, mentors, and mentees to enhance the diversity of the nation's scientific workforce and ensure that the public health system benefits from innovations derived from the optimal use of existing human capital.
Interleukin-1β Induces Long-Term Potentiation of C-Fiber Evoked Field Potentials in Spinal dorsal Horn in Rats with Neuropathic Pain
Authors: Zhong Yi , Zhou Li-Jun , Ren Wen-Jie , Xin Wen-jun , Li Yong-Yong , Zhang Tong , Liu Xian-Guo
Published: February 2009

Proinflammatory cytokines, such as tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) and interleukin-1beta (IL-1β), impairs long-term potentiation (LTP) in hippocampus, a synaptic model of memory, while in spinal dorsal horn TNF-α is found to induce LTP of C-fiber evoked field potentials in rats with nerve injury. In the present work the role of IL-1β in the spinal LTP of C-fiber evoked field potentials, which is important for pathological pain, was investigated in both physiological and pathological conditions. We found that spinal application of IL-1β at the concentrations up to 500 ng/ml affected neither basal synaptic transmission mediated by C-fiber nor spinal LTP induced by tetanic stimulation in intact rats. In rats with neuropathic pain produced by spared nerve injury (SNI) or lumbar 5 ventral root transection (L5 VRT), however, IL- 1β at a low concentration (5 ng/ml) induced LTP of C-fiber evoked field potentials. Pretreatment with either p38 MAPK inhibitor (SB203580) or NF-κB inhibitor (PDTC) but not with JNK inhibitor (SP600125) completely blocked LTP induced by IL-1β in SNI rats. Taken together, the results indicated that exogenous IL-1β might induce spinal LTP only in rats with nerve injury but not in intact rats. The differential effects of proinflammatory cytokines on synaptic plasticity in spinal dorsal horn and in hippocampus may be clinically significant.
Bankruptcy is Best to Save GM
Authors: Rauh Joshua , Zingales Luigi
Published: February 2009

A Chapter 11 bankruptcy gives General Motors the only chance to recover, according to Joshua Rauh and Luigi Zingales of the University of Chicago.
Insulin Aspart in Diabetic Pregnancy: State of the Art
Authors: Mathiesen Elisabeth R
Published: February 2009

Pregnancy in women with diabetes is associated with an increased risk of obstetric complications and perinatal mortality. Maintenance of near-normal glycemia during pregnancy can bring the prevalence of fetal, neonatal and maternal complications closer to that of the nondiabetic population. Changes in insulin requirements during pregnancy necessitate short-acting insulins for postprandial control of hyperglycemia. The fast-acting insulin analogue insulin aspart has been tested in a large, randomized trial of pregnant women with Type 1 diabetes and offers benefits in control of postprandial hyperglycemia with a tendency towards fewer episodes of severe hypoglycemia compared with human insulin. Treatment with insulin aspart was associated with a tendency toward fewer fetal losses and preterm deliveries than treatment with human insulin. Insulin aspart could not be detected in the fetal circulation and no increase in insulin antibodies was found. Thus, the use of insulin aspart in pregnancy is regarded safe.
Anti-MüLlerian Hormone as a Marker of Ovarian Reserve: An Update
Authors: Robertson David M
Published: February 2009

In recent years there has been an increasing interest in the role of anti-Müllerian hormone or Müllerian-inhibiting substance as a marker of ovarian reserve during assisted reproduction treatment and other reproductive processes. It is concluded that anti-Müllerian hormone is superior to other markers in predicting oocyte yield in IVF and appears useful in monitoring ovarian response in a range of reproductive states and disorders. This article reviews the literature published during 2006 and 2007.
Botulinum Toxin for Pelvic Pain in Women
Authors: Sinha Deepali , Thomson Angus J
Published: February 2009

Pelvic pain is a common disorder in women, causing significant morbidity. Often the etiology is not clear as it results from a complex interaction between neurologic, musculoskeletal and endocrine systems that is further influenced by behavioral and psychological factors. A comprehensive approach to the problem requires recognition of the multiple organ systems that may be involved. A thorough history and physical examination, followed by selected laboratory and imaging studies, is essential in evaluation of these patients. Medical and surgical management improves or controls the symptoms in the majority of cases, but there remains a group of women who are difficult to treat. Botulinum toxin is a presynaptic neuromuscular blocking agent inducing selective and reversible muscle weakness that lasts several months when injected intramuscularly. It has been shown to be effective in treating pain caused by muscular spasm in conditions other than pelvic pain caused by muscular hypertonicity. Evidence or literature related to treatment of pelvic pain with botulinum toxin is discussed in this review.
Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Female Challenge
Authors: Gerosa M , De Angelis V , Riboldi P , Meroni PL
Published: February 2009

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is two- to three-fold more frequent in women than in men and a strong association with sex hormones has been demonstrated. There is strong evidence that autoimmunity is under genetic control, and genes in sexual chromosomes can play a role in supporting the female prevalence. On the other hand, it is widely accepted that sex hormones – estrogens in particular – may regulate the immune response by favoring the survival of forbidden autoreactive clones and ultimately the prevalence of autoimmunity in women. Accordingly, estrogens have been suggested to be associated with the development of RA. Pregnancy in RA women is a common situation and most pregnant patients experience a remission. This has been closely related to a switch from Th1 to Th2 immune responses and to a decreased production of proinflammatory cytokines, at least in part supported by the changes of the hormonal profile in pregnancy. Pregnancy planning is required in RA in order to avoid unwanted complications. In particular, the need to control the disease requires safe use of antirheumatic drugs both during the pregnancy itself and in the breastfeeding period. Hormonal treatment for contraception is contraindicated in the case of positivity for antiphospholipid antibodies owing to the increased thrombophilic risk. Similarly, replacement hormonal treatment in postmenopausal women with RA to control osteoporosis is no longer recommended as a result of its ability to increase the cardiovascular risk closely associated with RA itself.
Ixabepilone: A New Active Chemotherapy in the Treatment of Breast Cancer
Authors: Villanueva Cristian , Vuillemin Antoine Thiery , Demarchi Martin , Bazan Fernando , Chaigneau Loïc , Pivot Xavier
Published: February 2009

Ixabepilone (BMS247550) is a semisynthetic derivative of the natural product that optimizes the properties observed with epothilone B. This compound has some similarities with taxanes in targeting and stabilizing microtubules, but it also has major differences. Interestingly, ixabepilone was evaluated in patients with well-characterized resistance to taxanes and was able to overcome the overexpression of multidrug resistance and was unaffected by mutations in the β-tubulin genes. The interest in ixabepilone was clinically confirmed in Phase II and III clinical studies, which have demonstrated a strong activity in patients with metastatic breast cancer resistant to taxanes and in patients suffering from other types of chemoresistant tumors.
Role of Trastuzumab in the Adjuvant Treatment of HER2-Positive Early Breast Cancer
Authors: Haq Bushra , Geyer Charles E
Published: February 2009

Amplification of the human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 ( HER2) gene occurs in 18–23% of invasive breast carcinomas and is associated with a worse prognosis. This novel transforming gene was identified in 1985, and in 1987 HER2 amplification was demonstrated to be central to the aggressive, malignant phenotype of these cancers and a significant predictor of both time to relapse and overall survival. These observations led to the development of the first monoclonal antibody targeting the extracellular domain of HER2, trastuzumab (Herceptin®, Genentech and Hoffman LaRoche, Switzerland), which was approved by the US FDA for metastatic breast cancer in 1998. In 2005, results from four major trastuzumab adjuvant trials demonstrated a marked reduction in risk of recurrence, and trastuzumab is now an essential component of the adjuvant treatment of H ER2-positive early breast cancer. Concerns regarding cardiac safety and mechanisms of resistance to trastuzumab remain important issues and are being addressed in ongoing research efforts.
Treatment Options for Breast Cancer and Bone Metastases
Authors: Pecherstorfer Martin
Published: February 2009

The most common destination for breast cancer metastases is bone. If bone metastases are detected, treatment algorithms should include the continuation of cytoreductive therapy with the addition of treatment to counter skeletal-related events, including bone pain. The range of current treatment options includes bisphosphonates, surgical intervention to improve structural integrity and palliative focal radiotherapy. This article focuses on the role of bisphosphonate therapy in metastatic breast cancer. Bisphosphonate therapy significantly reduces the impact of skeletal-related events, reduces bone pain and increases patient quality of life. Our current understanding is that bisphosphonates may also disrupt the metastatic process and reduce the development of bone lesions. Ultimately, this may lead to further expansion of bisphosphonate-based therapy in the future.
Managing Genital Herpes Infections in Pregnancy
Authors: Aga Irene E , Hollier Lisa M
Published: February 2009

Genital herpes is the leading cause of genital ulcer disease worldwide and it is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections. Genital herpes simplex virus infection during pregnancy poses significant risks, predominantly vertical transmission of infection with resulting neonatal disease. While uncommon, neonatal infection has a high mortality rate and significant long-term morbidity. This article will examine the current recommendations for diagnosis using serologic and viral detection techniques. Treatment options for initial and recurrent genital herpes infection in pregnancy are reviewed. The use of prophylactic antivirals and cesarean delivery are discussed. The article concludes with a look to the future, including potential changes in the management of herpes simplex virus-infected pregnant women.
Why from Teaching to Learning?
Authors: Niemi Hannele
Published: February 2009

This article explores the changes in learning research that have been visible over recent decades. It describes how such concepts as learning, knowledge and learning environment have changed and what kinds of claims these transformations make in education in Europe. At the end of the article the author reflects how education should apply new concepts of learning, knowledge and learning environments in order to enhance quality of life. The important message is that teachers and teaching still play an important role in educational institutions but learning arenas have widened, crossing boundaries from formal settings. Teachers' role as facilitators and mediators is like scaffolding for a new building. It is a process of creating minds through providing new tools based on multidisciplinary learning research, and continuous dialogue with new artefacts, human beings and environments. It is empowering people through learning. The article also illustrates how learning research and education can support each other. As a case, the author describes the major results of the Finnish national research programme entitled Life as Learning, and new initiatives to promote learning research through the multidisciplinary CICERO Learning Network. In many European countries corresponding research initiatives have been launched. The author claims that a stronger international cooperation of national research programmes and wider multidisciplinarity would provide more additional value, and sets these as a future challenge in Europe.
Identity Construction through Schooling: Listening to Students' Voices
Authors: Freire Sofia , Carvalho Carolina , Freire Ana , Azevedo Mário , Oliveira Teresa
Published: February 2009

One of the main problems faced by several educational systems around the world is educational exclusion. Portugal is no exception. It is recognized that those who drop out of education are at risk of social exclusion, with reduced opportunities to participate in society. In order to understand this, the authors reconceptualized the school as a community of practice, where students not only appropriate academic knowledge, but also new ways of being and perceiving themselves and others, and school practice itself. This article aims to better understand educational exclusion from the perspective of at-risk students. How do their constructed positional identities originate ways of being, relating and acting in relation to school agents and practices? The authors developed four focus group interviews with students presenting high rates of truancy and failure. Against their expectations, several students showed intent of pursuing their own path within the school system and saw themselves as capable of changing the conditions of failure in order to succeed in school.
Interrogating Type 2 Diabetes Genome-Wide Association Data Using a Biological Pathway-Based Approach
Authors: Perry John R.B. , McCarthy Mark I. , Hattersley Andrew T. , Zeggini Eleftheria ,   the Wellcome Trust Case Control Consortium, Weedon Michael N. , Frayling Timothy M.
Published: February 2009

OBJECTIVE

Recent genome-wide association studies have resulted in a dramatic increase in our knowledge of the genetic loci involved in type 2 diabetes. In a complementary approach to these single-marker studies, we attempted to identify biological pathways associated with type 2 diabetes. This approach could allow us to identify additional risk loci.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We used individual level genotype data generated from the Wellcome Trust Case Control Consortium (WTCCC) type 2 diabetes study, consisting of 393,143 autosomal SNPs, genotyped across 1,924 case subjects and 2,938 control subjects. We sought additional evidence from summary level data available from the Diabetes Genetics Initiative (DGI) and the Finland-United States Investigation of NIDDM Genetics (FUSION) studies. Statistical analysis of pathways was performed using a modification of the Gene Set Enrichment Algorithm (GSEA). A total of 439 pathways were analyzed from the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes, Gene Ontology, and BioCarta databases.

RESULTS

After correcting for the number of pathways tested, we found no strong evidence for any pathway showing association with type 2 diabetes (top Padj = 0.31). The candidate WNT-signaling pathway ranked top (nominal P = 0.0007, excluding TCF7L2; P = 0.002), containing a number of promising single gene associations. These include CCND2 (rs11833537; P = 0.003), SMAD3 (rs7178347; P = 0.0006), and PRICKLE1 (rs1796390; P = 0.001), all expressed in the pancreas.

CONCLUSIONS

Common variants involved in type 2 diabetes risk are likely to occur in or near genes in multiple pathways. Pathway-based approaches to genome-wide association data may be more successful for some complex traits than others, depending on the nature of the underlying disease physiology.