bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The effect of plasma transfusion on morbidity and mortality: a systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Murad Mohammad Hassan , Stubbs James R. , Gandhi Manish J. , Wang Amy T. , Paul Anu , Erwin Patricia J. , Montori Victor M. , Roback John D.
Published: March 2010

BACKGROUND: Plasma transfusion is increasingly performed without clear consensus on indications. We systematically reviewed the literature to summarize the available evidence regarding the benefits and harms of plasma transfusion in common clinical settings.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: We searched electronic databases from inception through August 2009. Eligible studies enrolled adult patients transfused with plasma and compared to a control group. Paired reviewers independently assessed studies for eligibility and extracted quality and outcome data.

RESULTS: Thirty‐seven studies met eligibility criteria, most of which were observational. In patients undergoing massive transfusion, plasma infusion at high plasma : red blood cell ratios was associated with a significant reduction in the risk of death (odds ratio [OR], 0.38; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.24‐0.60) and multiorgan failure (OR, 0.40; 95% CI, 0.26‐0.60). However, the quality of this evidence was very low due to significant unexplained heterogeneity and several other biases. In a single retrospective study, plasma transfusion was associated with reduced mortality in anticoagulated patients with intracranial hemorrhage (OR, 0.29; 95% CI, 0.09‐0.98). In patients undergoing surgery without massive transfusion, plasma infusion was associated with a trend toward increased mortality (OR, 1.22; 95% CI, 0.73‐2.03). Plasma transfusion was associated with increased risk of developing acute lung injury (OR, 2.92; 95% CI, 1.99‐4.29).

CONCLUSIONS: Very‐low‐quality evidence suggests that plasma infusion in the setting of massive transfusion for trauma patients may be associated with a reduction in the risk of death and multiorgan failure. A survival benefit was not demonstrated in most other transfusion populations.
Evidence‐based practice guidelines for plasma transfusion
Authors: Roback John D. , Caldwell Stephen , Carson Jeff , Davenport Robertson , Drew Mary Jo , Eder Anne , Fung Mark , Hamilton Marilyn , Hess John R. , Luban Naomi , Perkins Jeremy G. , Sachais Bruce S. , Shander Aryeh , Silverman Toby , Snyder Ed , Tormey Christopher , Waters John , Djulbegovic Ben
Published: March 2010

BACKGROUND: There is little systematically derived evidence‐based guidance to inform plasma transfusion decisions. To address this issue, the AABB commissioned the development of clinical practice guidelines to help direct appropriate transfusion of plasma.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: A systematic review (SR) and meta‐analysis of randomized and observational studies was performed to quantify known benefits and harms of plasma transfusion in common clinical scenarios (see accompanying article). A multidisciplinary guidelines panel then used the SR and the GRADE methodology to develop evidence‐based plasma transfusion guidelines as well as identify areas for future investigation.

RESULTS: Based on evidence ranging primarily from moderate to very low in quality, the panel developed the following guidelines: 1) The panel suggested that plasma be transfused to patients requiring massive transfusion. However, 2) the panel could not recommend for or against transfusion of plasma at a plasma : red blood cell ratio of 1:3 or more during massive transfusion, 3) nor could the panel recommend for or against transfusion of plasma to patients undergoing surgery in the absence of massive transfusion. 4) The panel suggested that plasma be transfused in patients with warfarin therapy–related intracranial hemorrhage, 5) but could not recommend for or against transfusion of plasma to reverse warfarin anticoagulation in patients without intracranial hemorrhage. 6) The panel suggested against plasma transfusion for other selected groups of patients.

CONCLUSION: We have systematically developed evidence‐based guidance to inform plasma transfusion decisions in common clinical scenarios. Data from additional randomized studies will be required to establish more comprehensive and definitive guidelines for plasma transfusion.
Pricing and Capital Allocation for Multiline Insurance Firms
Authors: Ibragimov Rustam , Jaffee Dwight , Walden Johan
Published: March 2010

Abstract

We study multiline insurance companies with limited liability. Insurance premiums are determined by no‐arbitrage principles. The results are developed under the realistic assumption that the losses created by insurer default are allocated among policyholders following an ex post, pro rata, sharing rule. In general, the ratio of default costs to expected claims, and thus the ratio of premiums to expected claims, vary across insurance lines. Moreover, capital and related costs are allocated across lines in proportion to each line's share of a digital default option on the insurer. Our results expand and generalize those derived elsewhere in the literature.
Comparison of Tissue Doppler Velocities Obtained by Different Types of Echocardiography Systems: Are They Compatible?
Authors: Dénes Mónika , Farkas Katalin , Erdei Tamás , Lengyel Mária
Published: March 2010

Background: Both systolic and diastolic tissue Doppler (TD) velocities have an important diagnostic and prognostic role in cardiology. We aimed to compare TD velocities between two different echocardiography systems. Patients: Thirty‐one consecutive patients (mean age: 65.2 ± 17.5 years; 12 males) were enrolled. Methods: Systolic (Sa), early (Ea), and late (Aa) diastolic velocities were measured by TD at the lateral mitral annulus by a Sonos 2000 (Hewlett‐Packard, Andover, MA, USA) and a Philips iE33 system. The E/Ea ratio was calculated. Results: Ea, Aa, and Sa velocities were higher when measured by the Sonos system (Ea: 13.2 ± 4.1 cm/s vs. 8.3 ± 3.6 cm/s; Aa: 14.8 ± 3.8 cm/s vs. 9.3 ± 2.3 cm/s; Sa: 15.2 ± 3.6 cm/s vs. 8.4 ± 2.0 cm/s; P < 0.0001 all). A significant correlation was found in Ea and in Ea/Aa (r = 0.84 and r = 0.85 resp; P < 0.0001 for both), and a weaker in Aa (r = 0.43; P = 0.02) between the machines. The Bland‐Altman analysis showed broad limits of agreement between the measurements for Ea, Aa, and Sa (mean difference: 4.95 cm/s; 5.52 cm/s; 6.73 cm/s, respectively; limits: 0.64–9.25 cm/s; −1.39–12.39 cm/s; −0.37–13.83 cm/s, respectively). An E/Ea ratio >5.6 by the Sonos system showed 75% sensitivity and 79% specificity for elevated left ventricular filling pressure, defined as E/Ea >10 by the reference Philips system. Conclusions: Although diastolic TD velocities had excellent correlations between the two machines, there was a systematic overestimation by the Sonos system. Since the limits of agreement do not allow replacing the measurements, we suggest using the same echocardiographic equipment at patient follow‐up. (Echocardiography 2010;27:230‐235)
The Relation between the Color M‐Mode Propagation Velocity of the Descending Aorta and Coronary and Carotid Atherosclerosis and Flow‐Mediated Dilatation
Authors: Gunes Yilmaz , Tuncer Mustafa , Guntekin Unal , Ceylan Yemlihan , Simsek Hakki , Sahin Musa , Yildirim Mustafa
Published: March 2010

Background: To improve clinical outcomes, noninvasive imaging modalities have been proposed to measure and monitor atherosclerosis. Common carotid intima‐media thickness (CIMT) and brachial artery flow‐mediated dilatation (FMD) have correlated with coronary atherosclerosis. Recently, the color M‐mode‐derived propagation velocity of descending thoracic aorta (AVP) was shown to be associated with coronary artery disease (CAD). Methods: CIMT, FMD, and AVP were measured in 92 patients with CAD and 70 patients having normal coronary arteries (NCA) detected by coronary angiography. Patients with acute myocardial infarction, renal failure or hepatic failure, aneurysm of aorta, severe valvular heart disease, left ventricular ejection fraction <40%, atrial fibrillation, frequent premature beats, left bundle branch block, and inadequate echocardiographic image quality were excluded. Results: Compared to patients with normal coronary arteries, patients having CAD had significantly lower AVP (29.9 ± 8.1 vs. 47.5 ± 16.8 cm/sec, P < 0.001) and FMD (5.3 ± 1.9 vs. 11.4 ± 5.8%, P < 0.001) and higher CIMT (0.94 ± 0.05 vs. 0.83 ± 0.14 mm, P < 0.001) measurements. There were significant correlations between AVP and CIMT (r =−0.691, P < 0.001), AVP and FMD (r = 0.514, P < 0.001) and FMD and CIMT (r =−0.530, P < 0.001). Conclusions: The transthoracic echocardiographic determination of the color M‐mode propagation velocity of the descending aorta is a simple practical method and correlates well with the presence of carotid and coronary atherosclerosis and brachial endothelial function. (Echocardiography 2010;27:300‐305)
Clinical Value of the Tissue Doppler S Wave to Characterize Left Ventricular Hypertrophy as Defined by Echocardiography
Authors: Chejtman Demian , Baratta Sergio , Fernández Horacio , Ferroni Fabian , Bilbao Jorge , Kotliar Carol , Marani Alberto , Turri Domingo , Hita Alejandro
Published: March 2010

Left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) may be a physiological finding and may also be associated with different disease entities and hence, with different outcomes. Regional myocardial function can be assessed with color Doppler tissue imaging, specifically by the waveform of the isovolumic contraction (IC) period and the regional systolic wave (“s”). Methods and Results: We studied five groups (G): healthy, sedentary young volunteers (G1, n:10); healthy sedentary adult volunteers (G2, n:8); and subjects with LVH (left ventricular mass index >125 g/m2) including: high performance athletes (G3, n:21), subjects with hypertension (G4, n:21), subjects with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) (G5, n:18). We measured peak “s” wave velocity (cm/sec) at the basal and mid septum, the IC/s ratio, and basal to mid‐septal velocity difference (BMVD) of the “s” wave. Regional “s” wave values (cm/sec) were G1 = 5.6 ± 1; G2 = 5.4 ± 0.8; G3 = 5.7 ± 0.6; G4 = 5.3 ± 1.1; G5 = 4.2 ± 1.1 (P < 0.0001). The IC/s ratio was G1 = 0.28 ± 0.18; G2 = 0.39 ± 0.21; G3 = 0.23 ± 0.10; G4 = 0.42 ± 0.15; G5 = 0.64 ± 0.15 (P < 0.0001). The BMVD (cm/sec) was G1 = 2 ± 0.51; G2 = 1.71 ± 0.29; G3 = 1.78 ± 0.44; G4 = 1.26 ± 0.96; G5 = 0.45 ± 0.4 (P < 0.0001). IC/s < 0.38 discriminated physiological from pathological forms of hypertrophy (sensitivity 90%; specificity 88%). Peak “s” wave velocity discriminated HCM from other causes of hypertrophy, with a cutoff value of 4.46 cm/sec (sensitivity 72%; specificity 90%). BMVD <0.98 cm/sec detected HCM with 89% sensitivity and 86% specificity. Conclusions: Peak “s” wave velocity and two indices: IC/s and BMDV are novel parameters that may allow to discriminate physiological from pathological forms of hypertrophy as well as different subtypes of hypertrophy. (ECHOCARDIOGRAPHY 2010;27:370‐377)
The Impacts of Transcatheter Occlusion for Congenital Atrial Septal Defect on Left Ventricular Systolic Synchronicity: A Three‐Dimensional Echocardiography Study
Authors: Gao Chun‐Heng , Zhang Hua , Chen Xin‐Jun
Published: March 2010

Objectives: To investigate the impacts of transcatheter occlusion for congenital atrial septal defect (ASD) on left ventricular (LV) systolic synchronicity using a real time three‐dimensional echocardiography (RT3DE). Methods: Thirty patients with ASD closure were recruited for the study. Realtime three‐dimensional echocardiographic data sets were acquired for the measurement of LV volumes LV ejection fractions and LV three‐dimensional systolic synchronicity before and at 6 months after transcatheter occlusion for ASD. M‐mode echocardiography and RT3DE were performed to characterize interventricular septal (IVS) motion. Results: There were no differences in LV systolic synchronicity between before and after transcatheter closure of ASD (Tmsv‐16SD%: 5.6%± 1.4% vs 5.8%± 1.8%, P > 0.05; Tmsv—12SD%: 5.2 ± 1.1% vs 5.4 ± 1.2%, P > 0.05). But the abnormal IVS motion was found before device closure and normalized after transcatheter occlusion for ASD using M‐mode echocardiography and the excursion‐time figure (bull's‐eye derived from RT3DE); At the same time, LV ejection fraction (59.8 ± 2.6 vs 66.7 ± 5.9, P < 0.05) stroke volume (49 ± 14 vs 63 ± 11, P < 0.05) was improved significantly as well as normalization of IVS motion after transcatheter occlusion for ASD. The correlation between ASD diameter and change of LVEF is significant (r = 0.85, P < 0.001). Conclusion: Although transcatheter occlusion did not significantly impact on intrinsic LV systolic synchronicity in patients with ASD, LV systolic function can be improved through normalization of IVS abnormal motion after transcatheter ASD occlusion. (Echocardiography 2010;27:324‐328)
Multimodality Imaging in the Assessment of Cardiac Lymphoma Presented as New‐Onset Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Trifunovic Danijela , Vujisic‐Tesic Bosiljka , Vuckovic Maja , Ostojic Miodrag , Ristic Arsen , Bogdanovic Andrija , Mihaljevic Biljana , Andjelic Bosko , Perunicic‐Jovanovic Maja , Antonic Zelimir
Published: March 2010

Cardiac involvement by non‐Hodgkin's lymphoma is not uncommon, however rarely diagnosed during life due to nonspecific clinical presentation. We report a case of secondary cardiac lymphoma in patient who presented with new‐onset atrial fibrillation. Cardiac lymphoma was in a form of bulky right atrial mass, infiltrating the atrial septum and cavo‐atrial junction with concomitant mild pericardial effusion. In the present case, we illustrate complementary role of transthoracic, transesophageal echocardiography and multislice CT scan with three‐dimensional reconstruction, in detection and evaluation of secondary cardiac tumor. Usefulness of echocardiography to follow up the effects of chemotherapy is also shown. (Echocardiography 2010;27:332‐336)
Noninvasive Evaluation of Membranous Subaortic Stenosis: Complimentary Roles of Echocardiography and Computed Tomographic Angiography
Authors: Mun Hee‐Sun , Wann L. Samuel
Published: March 2010

A 29‐year‐old Ethiopian woman that was referred to the Wisconsin Heart Hospital for treatment of subaortic stenosis, diagnosed 4 years earlier, in Ethiopia, using transthoracic echocardiography. Preoperative evaluation included transesophageal echocardiography, which showed severe membranous subaortic stenosis with a mean outflow gradient of 70 mmHg. Cardiac computed tomographic angiography also demonstrated a subaortic membrane, and additionally showed normal epicardial coronary arteries. The patient underwent uneventful surgical resection of the subaortic membrane without undergoing cardiac catheterization. (Echocardiography 2010;27:E34‐E35)
An Uncommon Cause of Coronary Artery Ostial Obstruction: Papillary Fibroelastoma
Authors: Erdoes Gabor , Stalder Mario , Basciani Reto , Gugger Mathias , Carrel Thierry , Eberle Balthasar
Published: March 2010

Cardiac papillary fibroelastoma is a benign tumor that mainly affects cardiac valves. The tumor has the potential to cause angina and myocardial infarction due to embolization of tumor fragments. We describe a rare case of right coronary artery ostial obstruction by a 12 × 19 mm sized papillary fibroelastoma located in the sinus of Valsalva. The report underlies the importance of echocardiography in diagnosis and intraoperative treatment of this type of cardiac mass. (Echocardiography 2010;27:337‐340)
Takotsubo Cardiomyopathy Induced by Dobutamine Infusion: A New Phenomenon or an Old Disease with a New Name
Authors: Mosley II William J. , Manuchehry Amin , McEvoy Colleen , Rigolin Vera
Published: March 2010

Takotsubo cardiomyopathy mimics acute myocardial infarction but is a separate clinical entity characterized by distinct wall motion abnormalities in the absence of obstructive coronary lesions. The prevalence of this condition is relatively uncommon yet has gained increasing recognition in recent years. It has rarely been associated with the use of dobutamine infusion during cardiac stress testing. We present in detail two cases of dobutamine‐induced Takotsubo cardiomyopathy from our case series, one from 2002 and the other from 2008. While both cases display the typical features of Takotsubo cardiomyopathy, the former was initially diagnosed as dobutamine‐induced vasospasm. These cases may provide insight into the pathophysiological mechanism of the condition and suggest that the increasing recognition of Takotsubo cardiomyopathy results from increasing familiarity of the condition. (Echocardiography 2010;27:E30‐E33)
“Pinball” in the Left Atrium
Authors: Müller Hajo , Keller Pierre‐Frédéric , Lerch René
Published: March 2010

(Echocardiography 2010;27:354‐355)
Assessing and Addressing Safe Food Handling Knowledge, Attitudes, and Behaviors of College Undergraduates
Authors: Stein Susan E. , Dirks Brian P. , Quinlan Jennifer J.
Published: March 2010

ABSTRACT:  The authors determined the food safety knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors of undergraduates (n = 1122) on an urban college campus using a previously piloted survey tool. Data obtained found that while students reported high levels of confidence in their ability to engage in safe food handling practices, their knowledge and self‐reported behaviors indicated that they were not actually engaging in safe food handling practices. Students were particularly lacking knowledge with respect to proper temperatures for cooking, reheating, and refrigerating foods. The data were further analyzed to determine differences in food safety knowledge and practices between populations of different demographics within the students. Differences were found between male and female students, Caucasian and Asian students, and students who had worked in food service compared with those who had not. A final aspect of this study evaluated the effectiveness of a social marketing campaign to increase awareness of safe food handling practices among college undergraduates. A cross‐sectional, quasi‐experimental, pre‐ and posttest design was used. Following the baseline knowledge survey described previously, a social marketing campaign developed for young adults was implemented on the campus over a 4‐wk period that included promotional events and incentives. Postcampaign survey results indicated increases in food safety knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors, particularly with respect to appropriate temperatures for cooking and refrigeration and found that e‐mails and posters may be effective ways to communicate food safety messages to this population.
Gelatin‐Filtered Consommé: A Practical Demonstration of the Freezing and Thawing Processes
Authors: Lahne Jacob B. , Schmidt Shelly J.
Published: March 2010

ABSTRACT:  Freezing is a key food processing and preservation technique widely used in the food industry. Application of best freezing and storage practices extends the shelf‐life of foods for several months, while retaining much of the original quality of the fresh food. During freezing, as well as its counterpart process, thawing, a number of critical physiochemical processes take place, including freeze concentration and freezing‐point depression. As a start to understanding the complexities associated with frozen foods, Food Science students should be able to describe and explain what occurs during the freezing and thawing of an aqueous solution. A modern cooking technique, gelatin‐filtered consommé, illustrates all of the phenomena associated with the freezing and thawing processes in a memorable, edible, hands‐on fashion.
Growth and Electric Properties of MPB BiScO3–PbTiO3Thin Films on La0.7Sr0.3MnO3‐Coated Silicon Substrates
Authors: Zhang Shuai , Dong Xianlin , Chen Ying , Cao Fei , Zhang Yuanyuan , Wang Genshui , Sama Nossikpendou , Remiens Denis
Published: March 2010

Morphotropic phase boundary BiScO3–PbTiO3(BSPT) thin films were fabricated using La0.7Sr0.3MnO3(LSMO) as bottom electrodes on silicon substrates via a sol–gel method. Pt/BSPT/Pt systems were also prepared as the comparison. Both BSPT and LSMO were well crystallized and pure perovskite phases were observed through the X‐ray diffraction measurement. Well‐saturated polarization hysteresis loops were obtained. A much bigger remanent polarization (Pr) of BSPT/LSMO was acquired than that of BSPT/Pt. The remanent polarization and coercive field of BSPT/LSMO were 28 μC/cm2and 200 kV/cm, respectively. The films had a room‐temperature dielectric constant of 720. The room‐temperature piezoelectric coefficientd33of 35 pm/V was observed, which was better than that of BPST/Pt that had been reported.
Novel Fabrication of Ca‐Doped LaNbO4 Thin‐Film Proton‐Conducting Fuel Cells by Pulsed Laser Deposition
Authors: Magrasó Anna , Xuriguera Helena , Varela Manuel , Sunding Martin F. , Strandbakke Ragnar , Haugsrud Reidar , Norby Truls
Published: March 2010

Thin films of 0.5% Ca‐doped La0.995Ca0.005NbO4−δ (LCNO) proton‐conducting electrolytes of ∼2 μm thickness were obtained by pulsed laser deposition on NiO–LaNbO4 composite substrates. The morphology of the films was granular after annealing at T≤1000°C and evolved to spherical‐like grains at 1100°C and above. The structure and composition of the films were characterized by X‐ray diffraction and X‐ray photoelectron spectrocopy. LCNO films showed the monoclinic fergusonite‐type structure at room temperature. The area‐specific resistance for a ∼2‐μm‐thick electrolyte was in the order of 0.4 Ω·cm2 at 600°C based on estimates of the electrode area. Temperature dependency of the electrical conductivity at 600°–700°C was comparable with that of bulk disks of the material.
Crystal Structure and Compressibility of Pb(Zr1−xTix)O3 Ceramics Under High Pressure
Authors: Ko Young Ho , Kim Kwang Joo , Cho Kyung Ho , Seo Chang Eui
Published: March 2010

X‐ray diffraction patterns of Pb(Zr0.3Ti0.7)O3 and Pb(Zr0.7Ti0.3) O3 have been measured at pressures up to 36 GPa with good signal‐to‐noise ratio using synchrotron radiation. In order to refine the crystal structure, Rietveld analysis has been performed. The structure of Pb(Zr0.3Ti0.7)O3 is tetragonal in space group P4mm with lattice parameters a=b=3.9843±0.0003 Å and c= 4.1545±0.0003 Å at ambient pressure. A pressure‐induced phase transition was found in the pressure range higher than ∼7.4 GPa at room temperature. The high‐pressure phase is cubic in space group

with lattice parameter a=3.9600±0.0003 Å at 7.4 GPa. The Birch–Murnaghan equation of state fit to the experimental data yields B0=83.9±1.7 GPa (B′0=4.0 is fixed) for tetragonal phase and B0=102.5±4.4 GPa (B′0=4.0 is fixed) for cubic phase with V0=65.95±0.01 Å3. The structure of Pb(Zr0.7Ti0.3)O3 is monoclinic in space group Cc with lattice parameters a=10.0627±0.0164 Å, b=5.8511±0.0024 Å, c= 5.7949±0.0020 Å, and β=125.185±0.119 ° at ambient pressure. No pressure‐induced phase transition for Pb(Zr0.7Ti0.3)O3 was observed over the pressure range of this study. The Birch–Murnaghan equation of state fit to the experimental data yields B0=73.6±18.9 GPa (B′0=4.0 is fixed) with V0= 278.81±0.63 Å3.
Observations and Characterization of Damage in Diamond Coatings Due to Impact Loading
Authors: Wheeler David W. , Wood Robert J. K.
Published: March 2010

This paper describes a single‐impact study of diamond coatings on tungsten substrates. A gas blast erosion test facility was used to impact 2.38‐mm‐diameter tungsten carbide spheres onto diamond‐coated tungsten at a velocity of 37 m/s. The results show that the impacts result in the formation of ring cracks, whose maximum diameters do not show any significant dependence on the coating thickness. The ring cracks do not agree with the contact diameters as predicted using Hertz' dynamic impact theory, the ring crack diameters being significantly larger than those predicted by the theory. These discrepancies can be attributed to a modified stress field generated by friction between the sphere and the target, as well as plastic deformation of the spheres during impact. A closer agreement with the Hertz theory was seen in the case of subsurface damage: significant delamination was observed adjacent to impact sites on coatings where the depth of maximum shear stress was close to the coating–substrate interface. This finding needs to be borne in mind when designing coated systems for use in erosive environments or applications where impact resistance is required.
Temperature Dependences of Leakage Currents of ZnO Varistors Doped with Rare‐Earth Oxides
Authors: Hu Jun , He Jinliang , Long Wangcheng , Liu Jun
Published: March 2010

Rare‐earth oxides are doped into ZnO varistors as grain growth inhibitors for increasing the varistors' voltage gradients. However, their leakage currents become large and their nonlinear coefficients decrease at the same time. The reasonable explanation for such a phenomenon has not yet been available. In this paper, the temperature dependences of varistor samples' leakage currents are investigated, which reveal that the increased leakage currents of ZnO varistors with Y2O3 doping are mainly due to the bypass paths through the intergranular materials at grain corners.
The High‐Temperature Oxidation Behavior of Reaction‐Bonded Porous Silicon Carbide Ceramics in Dry Oxygen
Authors: Zheng Chuanwei , Yang Zhenming , Zhang Jinsong
Published: March 2010

The oxidation behavior of reaction‐bonded porous silicon carbide (RPSC) ceramics in dry oxygen between 1100° and 1500°C was investigated based on four specimens with different porosities. RPSC ceramics exhibited a rapid mass increase in the initial stage of oxidation but a slow mass increase in the following oxidation, which was considerably different from the oxidation behavior of dense SiC. The oxidation kinetics for RPSC can be better represented by an asymptotic law rather than the parabolic law for dense SiC. We suppose that, although oxidation occurred in the entire pore channels at the beginning, the pores were rapidly blocked by the oxide as their growth rate near the pore mouth was very fast due to sufficient oxygen. As the result, the oxidation of the pore interior was stopped in the absence of further oxygen supply.
Sintering Temperature Dependence of Varistor Properties and Aging Behavior in ZnO–Pr6O11–CoO–Cr2O3–Al2O3–Y2O3 Ceramics
Authors: Nahm Choon‐W.
Published: March 2010

The sintering temperature dependence of varistor properties and aging behavior in ZnO–Pr6O11–CoO–Cr2O3–Al2O3–Y2O3 ceramics were investigated at the sintering temperature of 1280°–1350°C. The sintered density was almost unaffected by the sintering temperature. The breakdown field decreased in the range of 4610–1513 V/cm with the increase of sintering temperature. The nonlinear coefficient decreased slightly from 47 to 44, whereas it is close to approximately 45 for all the samples. The highest stability of electrical and dielectric characteristics against DC‐accelerated aging stress with sintering temperature was obtained for the sintering temperature of 1320°C, at which the %ΔEB=+0.3%, %Δα=7.3%, %Δɛ′APP=−5.6%, and %Δtan δ=+88.9%, respectively, for the stress state of 0.95 EB/150°C/24 h.
AAA Brings RACE Project to Capitol Hill
Authors: Dozier Damon
Published: March 2010

Joseph Jones is contributing editor of the RACE Project column in Anthropology News.
Teaching Human Rights: Creating an Informed Citizenry in the Classroom
Authors: Schafft Gretchen E
Published: March 2010

Gretchen E Schafft is contributing editor of “Human Rights Forum,” the AAA Committee for Human Rights column in Anthropology News.
NAGPRA's Effects on Anthropology Education: Views from a College Serving Native American Communities
Authors: Fine‐Dare Kathleen , Charles Mona , Mulhern Dawn , Riggs Charles
Published: March 2010

“Promoting Native American Scholarship,” by Kathleen Fine‐Dare

“Focus on Professional Responsibility,” by Mona Charles

“Repatriation Laws Impact Osteological Training,” by Dawn Mulhern

“Providing Background in Ethics and Law,” by Charles Riggs
Long Term Ecological Research: A New Opportunity for Anthropologists?
Authors: Winslow Deborah
Published: March 2010

Deborah Winslow is contributing editor of “Gateway to NSF,” the National Science Foundation column in Anthropology News.
The role of microRNAs in ovarian cancer initiation and progression
Authors: Li Shuang‐Di , Zhang Jia‐Rong , Wang Yan‐Qiu , Wan Xiao‐Ping
Published: March 2010

Introduction

Aberrant expression of miRNAs in ovarian cancer

Regulation of microRNAs in ovarian cancer

Biological function of miRNAs in epithelial ovarian cancer

miRNA as diagnostic and prognostic tools in ovarian cancer

Therapeutic potential of miRNAs in ovarian cancer

Conclusions

Epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) has the highest mortality rate of all gynaecological cancers. One of the greatest impediments to improving outcome is an incomplete understanding of the molecular underpinnings of EOC pathogenesis and progression. Recent studies suggest that microRNAs (miRNAs) are involved in ovarian tumorigenesis and cancer development. Several miRNA profiling studies have identified some consensus aberrantly expressed miRNAs in EOC tissues, and these EOC‐related miRNAs may play critical roles in the pathogenesis and progression of EOC. Moreover, some of the miRNAs may have diagnostic or prognostic significance. In this review, recent progress to reveal the role of miRNAs in EOC will be addressed, and a model for miRNA functions in ovarian cancer initiation and progression will be proposed.
The embryonic morphogen, Nodal, is associated with channel‐like structures in human malignant melanoma xenografts
Authors: McAllister Josephine C. , Zhan Qian , Weishaupt Carsten , Hsu Mei‐Yu , Murphy George F.
Published: March 2010

Formation of channel‐like structures, also termed vasculogenic mimicry (VM), describes the ability of aggressive melanoma cells to form PAS‐positive anastomosing structures that correlate with tumor virulence. This phenomenon may indicate differentiation plasticity, a feature melanoma cells may share with stem cells in the developing embryo. Recent studies have indicated that VM and tumorigenicity of human malignant melanoma may depend on the signaling pathways of an embryonic morphogen, Nodal. However, given the secretory nature of Nodal protein and melanoma cell heterogeneity, it remains unclear whether the Nodal‐expressing cells participate directly or indirectly in VM that is potentially related to tumorigenic growth. We have developed a humanized murine xenograft model in which developing human melanomas may be sequentially studied during early stages of tumorigenic growth within a physiological human dermal microenvironment. Nodal protein localized diffusely to melanoma cell membranes, with occasional foci of accentuated reactivity in patterns suggestive of channel formation. Similar findings were detected in a limited number of patient‐derived tumors. In situ hybridization confirmed Nodal mRNA to be restricted to tumor cells within xenografts that formed arborizing networks in patterns consistent with VM. These data indicate that Nodal gene expression is associated with formation of VM‐like structures in a physiologically relevant model of human melanoma tumorigenesis, and further support a key role for Nodal expression in the formation of channel‐like structures. The humanized xenograft model should be useful in future studies to define the mechanistic pathways responsible for VM and melanoma progression.

McAllister JC, Zhan Q, Weishaupt C, Hsu M‐Y, Murphy GF. The embryonic morphogen, Nodal, is associated with channel‐like structures in human malignant melanoma xenografts.
Melanoma biomarker expression in melanocytic tumor progression: a tissue microarray study
Authors: Nazarian Rosalynn M. , Prieto Victor G. , Elder David E. , Duncan Lyn M.
Published: March 2010

Background: The elucidation of protein biomarkers that are differentially expressed in human melanocytic tumors during tumor progression may lead to the identification of therapeutic targets and novel diagnostic tests. In a meeting chaired by Dr Mihm, a list of biomarkers of interest in melanoma was compiled. The specialized programs of research excellence (SPORE) in skin cancer developed a melanocytic tumor progression tissue microarray (TMA) to evaluate these candidate biomarkers. In addition to markers reported elsewhere, we evaluated c‐Kit, MITF, MART1, HMB‐45 and bcl‐2.

Methods: The TMA contains 480 cores of benign nevi, primary cutaneous melanoma and melanoma metastases. Immunohistochemical detection of melanoma biomarkers, including c‐Kit, MITF, MART‐1, HMB‐45 and bcl‐2 was performed.

Results: Intense nuclear staining for MITF protein was observed in 83% of nevi, 56% of primary melanomas and 23% of metastases. Bcl‐2 expression was reduced with progression to metastasis (detected in 86, 89 and 52% of nevi, primaries and metastases, respectively), contrary to MART‐1, which showed no differential expression (74, 85 and 84%). HMB‐45 was observed in 18% of nevi and most (72 and 75%) primary melanomas and metastases. c‐Kit protein increased with progression from nevi to primary tumor (10 and 77% of cases, respectively) and was decreased in metastases (26% of cases).

Conclusions: Through a collaboration of the Skin SPOREs sponsored by the Organ Systems Branch of the National Cancer Institute (NCI), we identified a list of melanoma biomarkers of interest, developed a melanocytic tumor progression TMA and completed a coordinated analysis of these biomarkers. This TMA has served as a powerful validation tool for newly identified and known melanoma biomarkers by revealing trends in expression during tumor progression and by confirming the heterogeneity of biomarker expression in cutaneous melanocytic tumors.

Nazarian RM, Prieto VG, Elder DE, Duncan LM. Melanoma biomarker expression in melanocytic tumor progression: a tissue microarray study.
The biologic importance of tumor‐infiltrating lymphocytes
Authors: Hodi F. Stephen , Dranoff Glenn
Published: March 2010

Detailed pathologic analysis has delineated a close association between intratumoral CD 8+ cytotoxic T cells and favorable clinical outcomes in diverse cancers. Conversely, the presence at tumor sites of negative immune regulatory elements, such as FoxP 3+ T cells (Tregs) and PD‐1/PD‐L1 co‐stimulatory molecules, is closely associated with inferior patient survival. Together, these results indicate the importance of the balance between cytotoxic and regulatory pathways in the tumor microenvironment as a critical determinant of prognosis. This immune index also provides a framework for devising therapeutic strategies to enlarge the population of antitumor cytotoxic T cells and attenuate immune regulation. Among these approaches, vaccination with irradiated, autologous tumor cells engineered to secrete granulocyte–macrophage colony‐stimulating factor (GM‐CSF) followed by antibody blockade of cytotoxic T‐lymphocyte associated antigen‐4 (CTLA‐4) provides clinical benefits for some advanced‐course melanoma patients. The extent of tumor necrosis in post‐treatment biopsies is linearly related to the natural logarithm of the ratio of CD 8+ T cells to FoxP 3+ Tregs. These findings show a concordance between the immune signature of tumor protection in endogenous and therapy‐induced responses, strongly supporting Martin Mihm's original insights.

Hodi FS, Dranoff G. The biologic importance of tumor‐infiltrating lymphocytes.
Drug‐associated reversible granulomatous T cell dyscrasia: a distinct subset of the interstitial granulomatous drug reaction
Authors: Magro Cynthia M. , Cruz‐Inigo Andres E. , Votava Henry , Jacobs Michael , Wolfe David , Crowson A. Neil
Published: March 2010

Background: A cutaneous T‐cell infiltrate exhibiting cytologic and architectural atypia, an aberrant phenotypic profile and clonal restriction would fall under the rubric of a T‐cell dyscrasia. Although such an infiltrate could represent a lymphoma, this constellation of findings can also be seen in drug‐associated pseudolymphoma.

Methods: In 2001, two of the authors (CMM and AEC) proposed the term reversible T‐cell dyscrasia to describe atypical T‐lymphocytic infiltrates that manifest a light microscopic, phenotypic and molecular profile that closely parallels cutaneous T‐cell lymphoma but regress when the causal drug is withdrawn.

Results: Herein we report our 10 cases of drug‐associated pseudolymphoma resembling granulomatous mycosis fungoides.

Conclusions: We term this reaction pattern drug‐associated reversible granulomatous T‐cell dyscrasia and consider it a distinct subset of the interstitial granulomatous drug reaction

Magro CM, Cruz‐Inigo AE, Votava H, Jacobs M, Wolfe D, Crowson A N Neil. Drug‐associated reversible granulomatous T cell dyscrasia: a distinct subset of the interstitial granulomatous drug reaction.
ON HAVING ONE'S CHANCE: AUTONOMY AS EDUCATION'S LIMIT
Authors: Pitt Alice
Published: March 2010

When hopelessness and helplessness become recurring themes in teacher education scholarship, this signals a conceptual problem with the question of autonomy in the profession. In this essay, Alice Pitt argues that breakdowns of professional life belong to what is most subjective in the profession. Pitt opens her analysis of this conundrum by examining some earlier formulations of the problem of learning a profession. Next, she explores four orientations to the role of education in modern life and examines an interview with a beginning teacher as a way to think about autonomy in its emotional as well as rational qualities. A reconfigured autonomy suggests that education is more than a site of the failure of the Enlightenment promise to advance reason's dominance in the organization of social life. Education, in its professional, practical, and experiential realms, reveals the dynamic qualities of the limits of reason, according to Pitt. She concludes that a constitutive alterity at the heart of the educational project renders the profession a significant site for ongoing investigation of the human condition and the play of autonomy.
A NEW LOGIC OF EMANCIPATION: THE METHODOLOGY OF JACQUES RANCIÈRE
Authors: Biesta Gert
Published: March 2010

The idea of emancipation plays a central role in modern educational theories and practices. The emancipatory impetus is particularly prominent in critical traditions and approaches where the aim of education is conceived as that of emancipating students from oppressive structures in the name of social justice and human freedom. What is needed to effect emancipation, so it is assumed in this tradition, is an exposition of the workings of power, as it is only when one sees and understands how power operates that it is possible to address its influence. In several of his publications the French philosopher Jacques Rancière has raised questions about the logic of this view of emancipation. Throughout his career Rancière has also worked consistently on the articulation of a different approach, an alternative way to understand and do emancipation. In this essay Gert Biesta provides a systematic reconstruction of Rancière's ideas on emancipation from three angles: political theory, political practice, and the practice of education. Biesta argues that Rancière provides us with a new and different way to understand how education might contribute to emancipation and also where and how, often in the name of emancipation and democracy, it actually hinders emancipation.
TOLERANCE, EMPATHY, OR INCLUSION? INSIGHTS FROM MARTIN BUBER
Authors: Shady Sara L.H. , Larson Marion
Published: March 2010

Given the reality of diversity, particularly religious diversity, in the contemporary world, Marion Larson and Sara Shady explore how educators can help students (and ourselves) consider the following question: How do I balance my own belief commitments with my responsibility to be genuinely open to and challenged by the other's perspective? Larson and Shady describe and evaluate three possible models: (1) tolerance, a neutral openness to the other's position; (2) empathy, a complete absorption of the other's position; and (3) inclusion, genuine dialogue about one's own position and the other's. Using the writings of Martin Buber as a basis, Larson and Shady advocate inclusion and apply this model to classroom teaching, arguing that this model of education promotes a shared reality where all partners in the dialogue come to understand each other's position, even if they do not entirely agree with it.
THE COOPERATIVE MOVEMENT, SELF‐MANAGEMENT, AND COMPETITIVENESS: THE CASE OF MONDRAGÓN CORPORACIÓN COOPERATIVA
Authors: Azevedo Alessandra , Gitahy Leda
Published: March 2010

Based on field research in 2005 in the Basque area of Spain, this article discusses the experience of the Mondragõn Corporación Cooperativa—MCC. This network of cooperatives began 50 years ago in the Basque area and has been based on self‐managed cooperatives, education, and technological innovation. Both internal and external solidarity and the daily practice of democracy have been essential for this experience, and demonstrate the potential of self‐management to put limits to economic activity through social, ethical, and ecological commitments in contradistinction to capitalist entrepreneurship oriented by the quest for profit per se. The present day challenges of the Corporación are related to the phenomenon of globalization, which obliged MCC to develop new organizational, technological, and social strategies. Since 1991, when the Corporación was created, technological innovation has been considered an explicit value. A reflection of that is the fact that 12 technological centers are now part of MCC. Furthermore, the Science and Technology Plan of the group has been elaborated since 2001. Internationalization has brought about new challenges as far as the orientating principles of the cooperative movement are concerned.
RESISTING RECESSION AND REDUNDANCY: CONTEMPORARY WORKER OCCUPATIONS IN BRITAIN
Authors: Gall Gregor
Published: March 2010

Occupations—alternatively known as sit‐ins or sit‐down strikes—are historically a well‐known, if rather infrequently used, response of well‐organized workers to employer actions. In Britain, the best and most widely known example is that of the successful UCS (Upper Clyde Shipbuilders) of 1971–1972 in Scotland. The workers' action prevented the yards' closure and secured their jobs. It seemed to typify the wider ability of militant workers in Britain in the period of the early 1970s to not only have the capacity to struggle collectively in defense of their interests at work but to also do so in a successful manner and in a way that made a political challenge to the prevailing order in society. In its wake, many other workers took the example of UCS as both template and inspiration for their own actions. Thus, Darlington and Lyddon commented that this occupation “popularized the idea of workers taking over factories throughout Britain.” Subsequently, occupations have been used by workers in Britain for an array of mostly defensive reasons, ranging from resisting victimization of union representatives and activists and employer unilaterally imposed changes to working conditions to demanding higher pay. However, and as a result of recession and restructuring, the occupation tactic is potentially a particularly powerful tool by which workers can collectively respond to and resist redundancy for reasons of providing leverage against employers than strikes cannot. But the global recession of late 2007 onwards in Britain has witnessed very few examples of workers deploying this tactic—certainly far fewer than might have been expected, given the depth and extent of this recession and when compared with the recessions of the early 1980s and early 1990s.
ASSOCIATIVE COMMUNITY BANKS IN BRAZIL
Authors: De Melo Neto Segundo João Joaquim
Published: March 2010

The fundamentals of capitalism lie not only in the private ownership of capital but also in its concentration in the hands of a minority. Because they do not have capital, those who need to work for a living—the vast majority—are forced to sell their ability to produce to those who control the means of production. Therefore, capitalists have at their disposal an abundant supply of labor force that usually outnumbers labor demand. If workers had access to credit, many of them would open their own businesses instead of being someone else's employees.1

The bigger the number of new businesses established, the more likely they would be to succeed because the insertion of small fractions of capital into the market would expand demand and allow these businesses to find buyers for their goods. In 2003, Brazil had 10 million small and micro entrepreneurs, 1 million families in rural settlements from land‐based reform programs, and over 11 million households depending on the Bolsa Família2 government program, along with a huge mass of unemployed, all in need of access to funds. Despite several credit democratization measures adopted by the current government, among which the sixfold increase in funds from Pronaf (Brazilian National Programme to Strengthen Family Agriculture) stands out, the great majority of those mentioned have not been aided as yet.3
SDG714 Regulates Specific Gene Expression and Consequently Affects Plant Growth via H3K9 Dimethylation
Authors: Ding Bo , Zhu Yan , Bu Zhong‐Yuan , Shen Wen‐Hui , Yu Yu , Dong Ai‐Wu
Published: March 2010

Histone lysine methylation is known to be involved in the epigenetic regulation of gene expression in all eukaryotes including plants. Here we show that the rice SDG714 is primarily responsible for dimethylation but not trimethylation on histone H3K9 in vivo. Overexpression of YFP‐SDG714 in Arabidopsis significantly inhibits plant growth and this inhibition is associated with an enhanced level of H3K9 dimethylation. Our microarray results show that many genes essential for the plant growth and development were downregulated in transgenic Arabidopsis plants overexpressing YFP‐SDG714. By chromatin immunoprecipitation analysis, we show that YFP‐SDG714 is targeted to specific chromatin regions and dimethylate the H3K9, which is linked with heterochromatinization and the downregulation of genes. Most interestingly, when YFP‐SDG714 production is stopped, the inhibited plants can partially restore their growth, suggesting that the perturbation of gene expression caused by YFP‐SDG714 is revertible. Taken together, our results point to an important role of SDG714 in H3K9 dimethylation, suppression of gene expression and plant growth, and provide a potential method to regulate gene expression and plant development by an on‐off switch of SDG714 expression.
Fast infrared variability from a relativistic jet in GX 339-4
Authors: Casella P. , Maccarone T. J. , O'Brien K. , Fender R. P. , Russell D. M. , Van Der Klis M. , Pe'er A. , Maitra D. , Altamirano D. , Belloni T. , Kanbach G. , Klein-Wolt M. , Mason E. , Soleri P. , Stefanescu A. , Wiersema K. , Wijnands R.
Published: March 2010

We present the discovery of fast infrared/X-ray correlated variability in the black hole transient GX 339−4. The source was observed with subsecond time resolution simultaneously with Very Large Telescope/Infrared Spectrometer And Array Camera and Rossi X-ray Timing Explorer/Proportional Counter Array in 2008 August, during its persistent low-flux highly variable hard state. The data show a strong correlated variability, with the infrared emission lagging the X-ray emission by 100ms. The short time delay and the nearly symmetric cross-correlation function, together with the measured brightness temperature of ∼2.5 × 106K, indicate that the bright and highly variable infrared emission most likely comes from a jet near the black hole. Under standard assumptions about jet physics, the measured time delay can provide us a lower limit of Γ > 2 for the Lorentz factor of the jet. This suggests that jets from stellar-mass black holes are at least mildly relativistic near their launching region. We discuss implications for future applications of this technique.