bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Estimating the Potential Economic Value of Seasonal Forecasts in West Africa: A Long-Term Ex-Ante Assessment in Senegal
Authors: Sultan Benjamin , Barbier Bruno , Fortilus Jeanne , Mbaye Serigne Modou , Leclerc Grégoire
Published: November 2009

Recent improvements in the capability of statistical or dynamic models to predict climate fluctuations several months in advance may be an opportunity to improve the management of climatic risk in rain-fed agriculture. The aim of this paper is to evaluate the potential benefits that seasonal climate predictions can bring to farmers in West Africa. The authors have developed an archetypal bioeconomic model of a smallholder farm in Nioro du Rip, a semiarid region of Senegal. The model is used to simulate the decisions of farmers who have access to a priori information on the quality of the next rainy season. First, the potential economic benefits of a perfect rainfall prediction scheme are evaluated, showing how these benefits are affected by forecast accuracy. Then, the potential benefits of several widely used rainfall prediction schemes are evaluated: one group of schemes based on the statistical relationship between rainfall and sea surface temperatures, and one group based on the predictions of coupled ocean–atmosphere models.

The results show that forecasting a dryer than average rainy season would be the most useful to Nioro du Rip farmers if they interpret forecasts as deterministic. Indeed, because forecasts are imperfect, predicting a wetter than average rainy season exposes the farmers to a high risk of failure by favoring cash crops such as maize and peanut that are highly vulnerable to drought. On the other hand, the farmers’ response to a forecast of a dryer than average rainy season minimizes the climate risk by favoring robust crops such as millet and sorghum, which will tolerate higher rainfall in case the forecast is wrong.

When either statistical or dynamic climate models are used for forecasting under the same lead time and the same 31-yr hindcast period (i.e., 1970–2000), similar skill and economic values at farm level are found. When a dryer than average rainy season is predicted, both methods yield an increase of the farmers’ income—13.8% for the statistical model and 9.6% for the bias-corrected Development of a European Multimodel Ensemble System for Seasonal-to-Interannual Prediction (DEMETER) multimodel ensemble mean.
An Analysis of China–Ethiopia Relations during the Cold War
Authors: Venkataraman M. , Gamora Ato Gedion
Published: November 2009

This article analyses the bilateral relations between China and Ethiopia during the Cold War period and brings out the interplay of domestic, regional and extra-regional factors that went into the shaping of bilateral relations. China’s growing involvement and various attempts at consolidation of political and economic relationship with African countries—a relatively recent phenomenon—is perceived as a result of the dynamic interplay of economic and political factors. As with other African countries, China’s interaction with Ethiopia in the post-Cold War period is markedly different from pre-1990 years. This article investigates the political/economic factors underlying this shift. It describes and analyses the factors that led to China’s political and economic ties with Ethiopia (and Africa) during the years of Mao and Deng Xiaoping. It concludes that motivated by the desire to realise its priorities and goals, China’s venture into Africa and Ethiopia was shaped by the shift in relations between the United States (US) and China and the Cold War dynamics in the Horn that prevented any kind of consolidation of relations with Ethiopia on the one hand and regime change in Ethiopia on the other.
The Evolution of the Image of China in the United States during the Cold War
Authors: Astarita Claudia
Published: November 2009

This article describes the evolution of the image of China in the United States (US) during the Cold War. Aware that China–US bilateral relations have been influenced by periods of conflict and animosity, harmony and détente, the article argues that the image of China has always been embedded in a network of events—birth of the PRC (People’s Republic of China [PRC], Korean War, Sino-Soviet alliance) that prevented American public opinion from developing an objective and unbiased picture of the PRC. Since 1950s, China has always been linked to the idea of the ‘Yellow Peril’. Moreover, the lack of a direct contact between China and America further thwarted the opportunity of shaping a fair picture of the PRC. Although recognising that during the Cold War American political parties played a significant role in conveying a negative image of China, this article shows how media helped in strengthening Chinese stereotypes among the American public. Analysing all articles published by Time, National Geographic and Readers’ Digest from 1949 to 1972, the article highlights both similarities and differences of the way in which these magazines introduced China to their readers.
The Portrayal of Chinese top Party-State Leaders in the American Mainstream News Media, 1978–2008
Authors: Law Kam-yee
Published: November 2009

The three decades of “world–shaking” reform and the opening up are believed to have brought enormous changes to China. Today, few can deny China’s crucial position in the global economy. However, aside from the obvious economic changes, it is uncertain whether the previously mysterious, untouchable and reclusive China thoroughly reformed itself from the demonized character during the globalization trend and years after the Cold War. Today, when ‘national image becomes an important part in soft power competition among countries…and a very significant strategic issue China faces in the development process’, this article aims at examining the scope and specific ‘frames’ that American mainstream news media use to report on China’s party-state leaders over the past 3 decades. Through the contents analysis of Time and Newsweek, the study finds that the image of China’s party-state leaders has not been drastically different under the framing. Since the judging criteria for the American mainstream news media towards political leadership has not significantly changed, they would still show certain disapprovals to the political aspects of China not change at all even after thirty years reform.
Creating a New Cultural Identity
Authors: Xing Zhang
Published: November 2009

Already in the nineteenth century, the Chinese immigrants had built several Chinese temples in Kolkata. These temples, including those dedicated to Tianhou and Guanyin, served not only as religious shrines but also meeting places for the community. This article outlines some of the unique, and hitherto unexamined, religious practices among the Kolkata Chinese. Specifically, it focuses on the venerations of the Atchew, perceived to be the first Chinese immigrant in India, the medium known as Lady Shou and the Indian Goddess Kali. While other religious beliefs among the Kolkata Chinese indicate the preservation of Chinese heritage and identity, these unique practices show the process of acculturation and the creation of a new mixed,Chinese–Indian identity.
Education, Occupational Aspiration and Religious Orientation
Authors: Chatterjee Sen Aparna
Published: November 2009

There are only a few Chinese families settled in North Bengal, concentrated in the towns of Siliguri and Kalimpong. The Chinese have on an average been a literate community but few of them continued for post-secondary education. The reasons were that many of them were engaged in business at an early age which was much more lucrative and on the other hand some people were struggling to maintain their establishment. Economic challenges left little time and recourses to concentrate on education. However, since the community has prospered and with time, parents increasingly opt to send their children to school. These days, the occupational needs of the Chinese youth in North Bengal can be divided into two categories, either to migrate abroad or to be a successful businessman. It is perceptible that Chinese in India are conscious with regard to the education of their children. English-medium schools are the preferred institutions and for this the Chinese have adopted another strategy—that of conversion to Christianity. Since Christians have some concessions in the admission process, in Convent schools, many Chinese see conversion as a solely utilitarian issue
Historical Antecedents: Counseling Psychology and the Fulbright Program
Authors: McWhirter Paula T. , McWhirter J. Jeffries
Published: November 2009

The purpose of this research is to develop a comprehensive, field-specific directory of counseling psychologists who have served as Fulbright scholars. First, the authors provide a brief history of the development and mission of the Fulbright program, followed by a review of prominent Fulbright grants. Next, they focus on the Fulbright Senior Scholars program. They detail the method used to explore related archival data and present a list generated from those data to include researchers and educators who professionally identify as counseling psychologists. Host country and dates of international service under the auspices of the Fulbright scholarship are included. Ultimately, the authors seek to provide documentation and stimulate future research into the collective impact of individual Fulbright scholars on counseling psychology as a discipline.
Negative Poisson’s Ratio Weft-knitted Fabrics
Authors: Yanping Liu  , Hong Hu  , Lam Jimmy K. C. , Su Liu
Published: November 2009

This paper presents a study of using weft-knitting technology to fabricate negative Poisson’s ratio (NPR) knitted fabrics, which exhibit the unusual property of becoming wider when stretched. Based on a geometrical analysis of a three-dimensional NPR structure constructed with parallelogram planes of the same shape and size, a new kind of NPR weft-knitted fabric was firstly designed and fabricated on a computerized flat-knitting machine. Then the NPR values of these fabrics were evaluated and compared with those from the theoretical calculations. The results show that all knitted fabrics have the NPR effect, which decreases with increased strain in the course direction. This variation trend is consistent with the theoretical prediction. The results also show that the main structure parameter affecting the NPR effect of a fabric is the opening angle at its initial state. Fabric with a smaller opening angle will have higher NPR values. This paper demonstrates the feasibility of fabricating NPR-knitted fabrics by using weft-knitting technology if a suitable structure and parameters are selected.
The Israeli Model for Policing Terrorism
Authors: Weisburd David , Jonathan Tal , Perry Simon
Published: November 2009

To date, there are few descriptions of possible policing models for responding to terrorism and enhancing homeland security. This article reviews the Israeli model for policing terrorism, presenting an initial description of its three broad tasks as defined by the Israeli police: first, the early prevention, interdiction, and treatment of sources of terrorism; second, the response activities once the attack has been launched; and, third, the response activities once the attack has occurred. These tasks are developed in the context of an overarching goal of allowing Israeli citizens to continue with their normal routines despite terrorist threats. The authors raise a series of questions that they view as being critical for developing a broader understanding of the potential benefits, as well as dangers, of general service police agencies taking a more significant role in counterterrorism and homeland security functions.
Law Enforcement Training and the Domestic Far Right
Authors: Chermak Steven M. , Freilich Joshua D. , Shemtob Zachary
Published: November 2009

This article examines issues related to training as it pertains to domestic terrorism in general and responding to far-right extremists in particular. First, it hightlights current training practices and training focused on the far right. Second, it details knowledge about the nature and extent of the threat posed by far-right extremists. Third, a review of the empirical research indicates that training could be enhanced if three key issues are emphasized: Future training should promote a better understanding of the contours of the far right; discuss the unique geographic, crime-incident, and structural characteristics of the far right; and describe the need to examine all ideologically motivated crimes, regardless of whether they are also defined as terrorist. The conclusion discusses how training could be enhanced by strategically integrating the existing knowledge base.
The Intelligence Fusion Process for State, Local, and Tribal Law Enforcement
Authors: Carter David L. , Carter Jeremy G.
Published: November 2009

Intelligence fusion centers have grown rapidly in the last few years as state, local, and tribal law enforcement agencies have attempted to find the best way to share information about threats to their communities. The Department of Homeland Security and the Information Sharing Environment of the Office of the Director of National Intelligence embraced fusion centers as being an important mechanism to aid them in their missions to share terrorism information among law enforcement, the private sector, and the intelligence community. The development and management of fusion centers have received significant guidance from the Justice Department, via the Global Intelligence Working Group, by developing standards for structure and processes. Critics, however, are concerned that the centers have inadequate protections for privacy and civil rights. This article examines issues in the development of fusion centers and provides an examination of the support for and criticisms of such agencies.
Policing Terrorism in Israel
Authors: Perliger Arie , Hasisi Badi , Pedahzur Ami
Published: November 2009

This article challenges the approach that supports the efficiency of the war model in combating terrorism and shows, by drawing on empirical support, the advantages of using the criminal justice model not only because of its response to the legal—moral issue but also because of its effectiveness. A conceptualization of the term policing terrorism is presented through a general model that defines the role of the police in combating terrorism within a democracy. By analyzing how this model is implemented in Israel, the article illustrates that police forces are preferable to military ones in three main realms: counterterrorism intelligence, thwarting of terrorist attacks, and restoration of civilian infrastructure after a terrorist attack.
From Artstein-Sontag theorem to the min-projection strategy
Authors: Bacciotti A. , Mazzi L.
Published: November 2009

Given a finite or countable family of continuous vector fields {fi(x)}i∈ I , we show that there exists a feedback k : Rn → I such that the switched system x = fk(x)(x) is globally asymptotically stable whenever there exists a smooth control Liapunov function V such that for all x ≠ 0, ∇V(x)fi(x)<0, for some i ∈ I.
Robust H ∞ control for a class of switched non-linear systems with neutral uncertainties
Authors: Li Li-li , Jun Zhao  , Dimirovski Georgi M.
Published: November 2009

This paper focuses on the problem of robust H∞ control for a class of switched non-linear systems with neutral uncertainties. The multiple Lyapunov function approach and the common Lyapunov function approach are exploited respectively for the cases whether states are measurable or not. Uncertainties are allowed to appear in channels of state, control input and disturbance input. Conditions for the solvability of the robust H∞ control problem and design of both hybrid state feedback and dynamic output feedback controllers are presented. As an application, a hybrid state feedback strategy is proposed to solve the standard robust H∞ control problem for non-linear systems when no single continuous controller is effective.
Social Power and Attitude Strength Over the Life Course
Authors: Eaton Asia A. , Visser Penny S. , Krosnick Jon A. , Anand Sowmya
Published: November 2009

Past findings indicate that middle-aged adults in the United States tend to be more resistant to attitude change than younger and older adults, but little is known about why this is so. The authors propose that midlife adults’ disproportionate occupation of high-power social roles (which call for resoluteness) may partly explain their heightened resistance to persuasion. Using nationally representative data sets, the article first documents that in various domains the possession of social power peaks in midlife. It next documents that middle-aged adults place a high value on resoluteness, which suggests that they have internalized powerful role norms. Next, it shows that directly activating the concept of social power increases the perceived value of resoluteness. Finally, it demonstrates that the possession of powerful social roles partially mediates the relationship between age and resistance to persuasion. This work is the first to uncover a mechanism responsible for changes in attitude strength over the adult life course.
Challenges to Optimal Enteral Nutrition in a Multidisciplinary Pediatric Intensive Care Unit
Authors: Mehta Nilesh M. , McAleer Dianne , Hamilton Susan , Naples Elizabeth , Leavitt Kristen , Mitchell Paul , Duggan Christopher
Published: November 2009

Objective: To describe nutrient intake in critically ill children, identify risk factors associated with avoidable interruptions to enteral nutrition (EN), and highlight opportunities to improve enteral nutrient delivery in a busy tertiary pediatric intensive care unit (PICU). Design, Setting, and Measurements: Daily nutrient intake and factors responsible for avoidable interruptions to EN were recorded in patients admitted to a 29‐bed medical and surgical PICU over 4 weeks. Clinical characteristics, time to reach caloric goal, and parenteral nutrition (PN) use were compared between patients with and without avoidable interruptions to EN. Results: Daily record of nutrient intake was obtained in 117 consecutive patients (median age, 7 years). Eighty (68%) patients received EN (20% postpyloric) for a total of 381 EN days (median, 2 days). Median time to EN initiation was less than 1 day. However, EN was subsequently interrupted in 24 (30%) patients at an average of 3.7 ± 3.1 times per patient (range, 1–13), for a total of 88 episodes accounting for 1,483 hours of EN deprivation in this cohort. Of the 88 episodes of EN interruption, 51 (58%) were deemed as avoidable. Mechanically ventilated subjects were at the highest risk of EN interruptions. Avoidable EN interruption was associated with increased reliance on PN and impaired ability to reach caloric goal. Conclusions: EN interruption is common and frequently avoidable in critically ill children. Knowledge of existing barriers to EN such as those identified in this study will allow appropriate interventions to optimize nutrition provision in the PICU.
Factoring out the parallelism effect in VP-ellipsis: English vs. Dutch contrasts
Authors: Duffield Nigel , Matsuo Ayumi , Roberts Leah
Published: November 2009

Previous studies, including Duffield and Matsuo (2001; 2002; 2009), have demonstrated second language learners’ overall sensitivity to a parallelism constraint governing English VP-ellipsis constructions: like native speakers (NS), advanced Dutch, Spanish and Japanese learners of English reliably prefer ellipsis clauses with structurally parallel antecedents over those with non-parallel antecedents. However, these studies also suggest that, in contrast to English native speakers, L2 learners’ sensitivity to parallelism is strongly influenced by other non-syntactic formal factors, such that the constraint applies in a comparatively restricted range of construction-specific contexts. This article reports a set of follow-up experiments — from both computer-based as well as more traditional acceptability judgement tasks — that systematically manipulates these other factors. Convergent results from these tasks confirm a qualitative difference in the judgement patterns of the two groups, as well as important differences between theoreticians’ judgements and those of typical native speakers. We consider the implications of these findings for theories of ultimate attainment in second language acquisition (SLA), as well as for current theoretical accounts of ellipsis.
A referential/quantified asymmetry in the second language acquisition of English reflexives by Chinese-speaking learners
Authors: Jiang Lin
Published: November 2009

There has been considerable research that investigates whether reflexives in interlanguage grammars (ILGs) are constrained by Principle A of the Binding Theory. These earlier studies focused on the role of sentence type, including both finite and non-finite test sentences; they did not examine the role of antecedent type, namely distinguishing between quantified antecedents and referential antecedents in the test sentences. This study explores Chinese learners’ acquisition of the locality constraints on the binding of English reflexives from a developmental perspective, focusing both on the role of sentence type and the role of antecedent type. A story-based truth-value judgment task was administered to three proficiency levels of Chinese-speaking learners of English. It was found that the finite/non-finite asymmetry in the learners’ long-distance (LD) judgments was strongest for the intermediate participants but much weaker for the beginners and advanced participants; the referential/ quantified asymmetry in the learners’ LD judgments was strongest for the advanced participants but much weaker for the beginners and intermediate participants. Implications of these findings are discussed.
Poverty & Inequality
Authors: Pimpare Stephen
Published: November 2009

Through the lens of the three books under review, this essay documents the contemporary rise in income and wealth inequality in the United States, evaluates competing explanations for it, and then turns its attention to post efforts by economists and philosophers to understand the consequences of inequality and poverty upon the social and political well-being of democratic polities.

JEL classifications: B10, B20, H11, I30
Occurrence of Bacteria and Viruses on Elementary Classroom Surfaces and the Potential Role of Classroom Hygiene in the Spread of Infectious Diseases
Authors: Bright Kelly R. , Boone Stephanie A. , Gerba Charles P.
Published: November 2009

The presence of microorganisms on common classroom contact surfaces (fomites) was determined to identify the areas most likely to become contaminated. Six elementary classrooms were divided into control and intervention groups (cleaned daily with a quaternary ammonium wipe) and tested for heterotrophic bacteria. Three classrooms were also tested for norovirus and influenza A virus. Frequently used fomites were the most contaminated; water fountain toggles, pencil sharpeners, keyboards, and faucet handles were the most bacterially contaminated; desktops, faucet handles, and paper towel dispensers were the most contaminated with viruses. Influenza A virus was detected on up to 50% and norovirus on up to 22% of surfaces throughout the day. Children in the control classrooms were 2.32 times more likely to report absenteeism due to illness than children in the intervention classrooms and were absent longer (on average). Improved classroom hygiene may reduce the incidence of infection and thus student absenteeism.
Effect of Targeting Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase on Cardiac Remodeling in Rats
Authors: Baraka Azza , Mikhail Maher , Guemei Aida , El Ghotny Samar
Published: November 2009

Background: Increasing evidence suggests that the activation of p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (p38MAPK) plays a role in cardiac remodeling. Targeting p38MAPK using drugs reported to interfere with its phosphorylation, namely statins and all-trans retinoic acid (atRA), might play a role in ameliorating this remodeling. Methods and Results: Cardiac remodeling was induced in male albino rats by chronic inhibition of nitric oxide (NO) synthesis by N-nitro L-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME). Daily oral administration of L-NAME for 4 weeks resulted in the elevation of mean arterial blood pressure (MABP) together with cardiac remodeling evidenced by an increase in left ventricular-body weight ratio together with an increase in cardiac hydroxyproline concentration and a decrease in left ventricular papillary muscle-developed tension. An elevation in cardiac phosphorylated p38MAPK concentration, tumor necrosis factor alpha concentration and in cardiac caspase 3 activity was also observed. Administration of either rosuvastatin or all-trans retinoic acid (atRA), starting 4 weeks after L-NAME administration, ameliorated remodeling and improved all studied parameters. Conclusions: Targeting MAPK might represent a useful therapeutic avenue to ameliorate cardiac remodeling and support the notion that atRA and statins are potential candidates for the prevention and therapy of cardiac remodeling.
Neither K + Channels Nor PI3K/Akt Mediates the Vasodilative Effect of Nebivolol on Different Types of Rat Arteries
Authors: Wang Yan , Zhang MingSheng , Liu Yu , Li Jie , Song ErFei , Niu LongGang , Cheng NiuLiang
Published: November 2009

Purpose: Nebivolol is a highly selective β1-adrenoceptor blocker with additional vasodilating properties. It has been shown that the nebivolol-induced vasorelaxation is nitric oxide (NO) dependent. The serine/ threonine protein kinase Akt phosphorylates endothelial cell NO synthase (eNOS) and enhances the ability of eNOS to generate NO. Previous studies have shown that the release of NO from the endothelium may be ascribed to the modulation of different types of K+channels. The current study was designed to determine whether K+channels or phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase (PI3K)/Akt may affect vasorelaxation induced by nebivolol in different rat arteries.

Methods: Rings of the rat aorta, carotid artery, femoral artery, and renal artery were suspended for isometric force recording. During contraction by KCl (60 mmol/L) or phenylephrine (PE; 10—6mol/L; femoral artery and renal artery were precontracted by 10—5mol/L), the effect of nebivolol (10—7-10— 5mol/L) was obtained in the presence of different potassium channel, PI3K/Akt, or NOS inhibitors. Results: Nebivolol (10— 7-10—5mol/L) relaxed precontractions induced by KCl and PE in different rat arteries, which was inhibited by the presence of the NOS inhibitor NG-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME; 100 μmol/ L). The effect of nebivolol was concentration dependent. The exposure of the vessel rings to a selective inhibitor of PI3K wortmannin (5 × 10—7mol/L) or a selective inhibitor of Akt (1L-6-hydroxymethyl-chiro-inositol 2-(R)-2-Omethyl-3-O-octadecylcarbonate, 10—5mol/L) did not influence nebivolol-induced vasorelaxation. Similarly, K+channels blockers, iberiotoxin (100 nmol/L), glibenclamide (0.1 mmol/L), 4-aminopyridine (1 mmol/L), or BaCl2(1 mmol/L) had no influence on the relaxation of nebivolol in arteries precontracted by PE. Conclusion: Nebivolol produced a concentration-dependent vasodilation in different rat arteries precontracted by PE or KCl. In the isolated rat aorta, carotid artery, femoral artery, and renal artery, neither K+channels nor PI3K/Akt pathway was involved in the relaxation induced by nebivolol.
Oxidative Modification of Fibrinogen Affects Its Binding Activity to Glycoprotein (GP) IIb/IIIa
Authors: Tetik Sermin , Kaya Kurtulus , Demir M. , Eksioglu-Demiralp Emel , Yardimci Turay
Published: November 2009

Aim: Proteins are sensitive biomarkers of human diease condition associated with oxidative stress. Alteration of protein structures by oxidants may result in partial or complete loss of protein functions. We have investigated the effect of structural modifications induced by metal ion catalyzed oxidation of fibrinogen on its binding capacity to glycoprotein IIb/IIIa (GpIIb/IIIa) and human platelets. Methods: We identified and quantified of binding capacity of native and oxidized fibrinogen to its receptor in vitro by flow cytometer. Dityrosine formation on oxidized fibrinogen were detected spectrophotometrically. Elevated degradation products of fibrinogen after oxidation were revealed in the HPLC analysis. The native and oxidized fibrinogen were analyzed on mass spectrum upon digestion with tyripsin. Results: Oxidatively modified fibrinogen showed less binding activity than native fibrinogen to GpIIb/IIIa coated micro beads and human platelets whereas slightly higher binding capaticity to ADP induced stimulated platelets. Formation of dityrosines in the amino acid side chains of fibrinogen were observed upon oxidation. Decreased binding capacity of oxidized fibrinogen correlated with intensities of dityrosine formation. Oxidized fibrinogen had more ion-mass intensities at higher than native fibrinogen. Clinical implications: Important point is decreased of binding capacity of the oxidized fibrinogen to own receptor. The decreased rate of binding, leading to effect in the diseases of clot formation may acount for the association between oxidation of fibrinogen and the incidence of effect in human diseases.
Steroid-Induced Iatrogenic Disease After Treating for Pseudothrombocytopenia
Authors: Sharma A. , Pinto Pereira Lexley M. , Capildeo K. , Charles K. , Teelucksingh S.
Published: November 2009

Pseudothrombocytopenia, a spontaneous in vitro occurrence after the addition of anticoagulant to blood, causes clumping of platelets resulting in a spurious observation of low platelet counts (<10 000/μL) without any associated hemorrhagic manifestations. We describe a 46-year-old male patient who was diagnosed with immune thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP) based on a reported platelet count of 22 000/μL. He was prescribed high-dose glucocorticoid therapy, up to 60 mg of prednisolone daily for over a year. After repeated hospital admissions, he came under our care as an emergency admission for nonketotic hyperosmolar hyperglycemia. He was diabetic, osteopenic, and had been treated for tuberculosis, all likely consequences of prolonged glucocorticoid therapy. In the presence of persistent platelet counts below 10 000/μL, and without associated clinical hematological manifestations of ITP, a smear of citrated blood was examined and a platelet count of 215 000/μL was observed. This case highlights the possible consequences of misdiagnosis of pseudothrombocytopenia. Failure to recognize this phenomenon may lead to debilitating iatrogenic disease.
Phosphatidylethanolamine at the Luminal Endothelial Surface—Implications for Hemostasis and Thrombotic Autoimmunity
Authors: Zhixin Li  , Wells Clive W. , North Paula E. , Kumar Suresh , Duris Christine B. , McIntyre John A. , Ming Zhao
Published: November 2009

Objective: Accumulating evidence suggests that phosphatidylethanolamine (PE) is physically present at the luminal endothelial surface, where it tentatively functions as a critical anticoagulant. The goal of the current investigation was 3-fold: to characterize the distribution profile of PE at the luminal endothelial surface; to examine the immunoreactivity to the vascular endothelium by anti-PE (aPE) sera from patients presenting with thrombosis; and to discuss the potential mechanism of PE upregulation by endothelial cells. Methods: The rat aortic arch was selected as major conduit vessel under significant hemodynamic burden. The presence of PE and the antigenic profile of aPE sera at the luminal endothelial surface were examined using duramycin as a PEbinding probe and immunohistochemistry. Phosphatidylethanolamine upregulation at endothelial cell surface was investigated using cultured monolayer subject to laminar shear stress or thrombin treatment. Results: High levels of PE were detected at the luminal endothelial surface of aortic flow dividers, the ascending aorta, and the outer curvature of the aortic arch. The antigenic profiles of aPE sera, which are highly associated with elevated thrombotic risks in patients, are consistent with PE distribution along the endothelial surface. Finally, PE is upregulated at the surface of cultured endothelial cells in response to luminal shear stress but not thrombin. Conclusions: The current data describe the physical distribution of vascular PE at the blood—endothelium interface. The luminal PE presents a vulnerability to anti-PE autoimmunity and is consistent with the association between aPE and elevated risk for idiopathic thrombosis.
Differences in Etiological and Clinical Manifestations in Upper Extremity and Lower Limb Deep Venous Thrombosis Patients From India
Authors: Pai Navin , Shetty Shrimati , Kulkarni Bipin , Ghosh Kanjaksha
Published: November 2009

We assessed the clinical manifestations in upper and lower limb deep venous thrombosis patients from India and difference in etiological factors. Fifty-three patients with primary upper extremity deep vein thrombosis (UEDVT; males 30, females 23) and 236 patients with lower limb deep vein thrombosis (LLDVT; males 157, females 79) were included in this study. The thrombophilia markers studied were protein C (PC), protein S (PS), antithrombin (AT) III, and factor V Leiden (FVL) mutation. Females had significantly higher prevalence of prothrombotic markers as compared to males (P = .046) in the UEDVT group. No statistically significant differences in the prevalence of prothrombotic markers were observed between the LLDVT and the UEDVT patients. The clinical picture however revealed greater involvement of thrombus of the iliofemoral vein (P = .009) and the proximal tibial vein (P = .005) in males than females, while no differences were observed in the clinical manifestations between the 2 sexes in UEDVT patients. Our study is able to give a broad perspective of the prevalence data of UEDVT and LLDVT in the city of Mumbai of approximately 5 million population served by this hospital. We conclude that the topology of thrombosis in deep vein thrombosis (DVT) patients in India is different from that of the Western countries.
Incidence and Clinical Importance of Lupus Anticoagulant in Children With Recurrent Upper Respiratory Tract Infection
Authors: Peker Erdal , Kavakli Kaan , Balkan Can , Karapinar Deniz , Aydemir Baran
Published: November 2009

Background: This study aims to understand the incidence and presence of lupus anticoagulant (LA) in children with recurrent upper respiratory tract infection (URTI). Methods: One hundred and sixty-five patients who were admitted to Departments of Pediatrics and Otolaryngology at Ege University Faculty of Medicine during the last 2 years and 120 age-matched healthy children as a control group were enrolled in the study. Results: The presence of LA in serum was positive in 8 (4.8%) cases in the patient group while only 2 (1.6%) cases in the healthy control group (P = .03). Mean age of patients with LA positive was significantly lower than those of negative cases (P = .02). Of the patients, 92 (55.8%) had adenoid hypertrophy. The annual frequency of URTI did not differ significantly between the LA patients and the LA-negative patients (7.5/year and 6.9/year, respectively). None of the patients with LA positive had adenoid hypertrophy (P = .009). Activated partial thromboplastin time was prolonged in 6 (3.6%) of 165 patients. Of these 6 patients, 2 were also LA positive. The presence of LA disappeared in all the 8 patients 2 months after the diagnosis. Lupus anticoagulant was found negative in all patients at the end of the second month. Conclusion: We found that the ratio of the presence of LA is higher in children with recurrent URTI than healthy children. However, the presence of LA does not lead to bleeding and/or thrombosis, and it disappears in a short period of time.
Nonclinical Safety Assessment of the Histone Deacetylase Inhibitor Vorinostat
Authors: Kerr Janet S. , Galloway Sheila , Lagrutta Armando , Armstrong Michael , Miller Thomas , Richon Victoria M. , Andrews Paul A.
Published: November 2009

Vorinostat (SAHA, Zolinza), a histone deacetylase inhibitor, is assessed in nonclinical studies to support its approval for cutaneous T-cell lymphoma. Vorinostat is weakly mutagenic in the Ames assay; is clastogenic in rodent (ie, CHO) cells but not in normal human lymphocytes; and is weakly positive in an in vivo mouse micronucleus assay. No effects are observed on potassium ion currents in the hERG assay up to 300 μM (safety margin ~300-fold the ~1 μM serum concentration associated with the 400 mg/d maximum recommended human dose. No rat respiratory or central nervous system effects are found at 150 mg/kg (>2-fold maximum recommended human dose). No cardiovascular effects, including effects on QTc interval, are observed after a single oral dose (150 mg/kg) in dogs. Vorinostat is orally dosed daily in rats (controls, 20, 50, or 150 mg/kg/d) and dogs (controls, 60, 80, or 100/125/160 mg/kg/d) for 26 weeks with a 4-week recovery. Rat vorinostat-related adverse findings are decreased food consumption, weight loss, and hematologic changes; a no observed adverse effects level is not established. In dogs, adverse effects are primarily gastrointestinal; the no observed adverse effects level is 60 mg/kg/d (~6-fold maximum recommended human dose). Toxicities are reversible and can be monitored in the clinic.
A Resonance Demodulation Method Based on Harmonic Wavelet Transform for Rolling Bearing Fault Diagnosis
Authors: Shumin Hou  , Yourong Li  , Zhigang Wang
Published: November 2009

Resonance demodulation technique is widely employed to diagnose faults of rolling bearings. In order to reduce the energy leakage influence of the traditional demodulated resonance method, a new approach based on harmonic wavelet transform (HWT) is proposed to extract the fault characteristics of rolling bearing. From the results of the numerical simulation analysis, this method is proven to be efficient in detecting the impact signal clouded in noises. Moreover, this article proposes a resonance demodulation scheme, which can obtain the optimal HWT parameters automatically to construct the proper sub-frequency band filter by calculating the relative wavelet energy of the different sub-frequency band. It solves the shortcoming in which a resonance frequency band filter is chosen manually. The proposed scheme is successfully applied to detect the fault of rolling bearings of a tilting mechanism in a converter mill.
Probabilistic Damage Identification Based on Correlation Analysis Using Guided Wave Signals in Aluminum Plates
Authors: Dong Wang  , Lin Ye  , Zhongqing Su  , Ye Lu  , Fucai Li  , Guang Meng
Published: November 2009

An algorithm based on correlation analysis was adopted to estimate the probability of the presence of damage in aluminum plates using Lamb wave signals from an active sensor network. Both finite element analysis and experimental evaluations were presented. The Shannon entropy optimization criterion was applied to calibrate the optimal mother wavelet and the most appropriate continuous wavelet transform scale for signal processing. The correlation coefficients for individual sensing paths between the present state (with damage) and the reference state (without damage) were calculated, and the probability of the presence of damage in the monitoring area enclosed by the active sensor network was estimated to identify the damage. A concept of virtual sensing paths (VSPs) was proposed to enhance the performance of the algorithm by increasing the number of sensing paths in data fusion. The results identified using both simulation and experimental Lamb wave signals from different groups of sensing paths at different central frequencies agreed well with the actual situations, demonstrating the potential of the correlation-based algorithm with the application of VSPs for identification of damage in structures.
Quantitative DNA methylation predicts survival in adult acute myeloid leukemia
Authors: Bullinger Lars , Ehrich Mathias , Döhner Konstanze , Schlenk Richard F. , Döhner Hartmut , Nelson Matthew R. , van den Boom Dirk
Published: November 2009

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is characterized by molecular heterogeneity that is not fully reflected in the current classification system. Recent insights point toward a significant role of aberrant DNA methylation in leukemogenesis. Therefore, we investigated the prognostic impact of DNA methylation in AML. To screen for promoter methylation in AML we applied a combination of base-specific cleavage biochemistry and matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF-MS), a powerful methodology allowing for quantitatively investigating DNA methylation status in a large series of both promoter regions and leukemia samples. We analyzed 92 genomic regions in 182 patient samples, correlated findings with clinical and molecular data, and validated the results in an independent cohort of 74 AML samples. Using this approach, we were able to identify novel leukemia subgroups based on distinct DNA methylation patterns. Furthermore, we defined a methylation-based outcome predictor for patient survival (P < .01) that in multivariable analysis provided independent prognostic information (hazard ratio, 1.52; 95% CI, 1.06-2.16). Here, we report the first large-scale methylation-based outcome predictor in AML, and thereby our findings support the use of genomic methylation markers for improved molecular classification and prognostication in adult AML.
The role of the Th1 transcription factor T-bet in a mouse model of immune-mediated bone-marrow failure
Authors: Tang Yong , Desierto Marie J. , Chen Jichun , Young Neal S.
Published: November 2009

The transcription factor T-bet is a key regulator of type 1 immune responses. We examined the role of T-bet in an animal model of immune-mediated bone marrow (BM) failure using mice carrying a germline T-bet gene deletion (T-bet−/−). In comparison with normal C57BL6 (B6) control mice, T-bet−/− mice had normal cellular composition in lymphohematopoietic tissues, but T-bet−/− lymphocytes were functionally defective. Infusion of 5 × 106 T-bet−/− lymph node (LN) cells into sublethally irradiated, major histocompatibility complex–mismatched CByB6F1 (F1) recipients failed to induce the severe marrow hypoplasia and fatal pancytopenia that is produced by injection of similar numbers of B6 LN cells. Increasing T-bet−/− LN-cell dose to 10 to 23 × 106 per recipient led to only mild hematopoietic deficiency. Recipients of T-bet−/− LN cells had no expansion in T cells or interferon-γ–producing T cells but showed a significant increase in Lin−Sca1+CD117+CD34− BM cells. Plasma transforming growth factor-β and interleukin-17 concentrations were increased in T-bet−/− LN-cell recipients, possibly a compensatory up-regulation of the Th17 immune response. Continuous infusion of interferon-γ resulted in hematopoietic suppression but did not cause T-bet−/− LN-cell expansion or BM destruction. Our data provided fresh evidence demonstrating a critical role of T-bet in immune-mediated BM failure.
Galectin-5 is bound onto the surface of rat reticulocyte exosomes and modulates vesicle uptake by macrophages
Authors: Barrès Céline , Blanc Lionel , Bette-Bobillo Pascale , André Sabine , Mamoun Robert , Gabius Hans-Joachim , Vidal Michel
Published: November 2009

Reticulocytes release small membrane vesicles termed exosomes during their maturation into erythrocytes. Exosomes are intraluminal vesicles of multivesicular endosomes released into the extracellular medium by fusion of these endosomal compartments with the plasma membrane. This secretion pathway contributes to reticulocyte plasma membrane remodeling by eliminating certain membrane glycoproteins. We show in this study that galectin-5, although mainly cytosolic, is also present on the cell surface of rat reticulocytes and erythrocytes. In addition, in reticulocytes, it resides in the endosomal compartment. We document galectin-5 translocation from the cytosol into the endosome lumen, leading to its secretion in association with exosomes. Galectin-5 bound onto the vesicle surface may function in sorting galactose-bearing glycoconjugates. Fittingly, we found that Lamp2, a major cellular glycoprotein presenting galectin-reactive poly-N-acetylactosamine chains, is lost during reticulocyte maturation. It is associated with released exosomes, suggestive of binding to galectin-5. Finally, we reveal that the uptake of rat reticulocyte exosomes by macrophages is dependent on temperature and the mechanoenzyme dynamin and that exosome uptake is decreased by adding galectin-5. These data imply galectin-5 functionality in the exosomal sorting pathway during rat reticulocyte maturation.
Autoimmune B-cell lymphopenia after successful adoptive therapy with telomerase-specific T lymphocytes
Authors: Ugel Stefano , Scarselli Elisa , Iezzi Manuela , Mennuni Carmela , Pannellini Tania , Calvaruso Francesco , Cipriani Barbara , De Palma Raffaele , Ricci-Vitiani Lucia , Peranzoni Elisa , Musiani Piero , Zanovello Paola , Bronte Vincenzo
Published: November 2009

Telomerase reverse transcriptase (TERT) is a good candidate for cancer immunotherapy because it is overexpressed in 85% of all human tumors and implicated in maintenance of the transformed phenotype. TERT-based cancer vaccines have been shown to be safe, not inducing any immune-related pathology, but their impact on tumor progression is modest. Here we show that adoptive cell therapy with the use of high-avidity T lymphocytes reactive against telomerase can control the growth of different established tumors. Moreover, in transgenic adenocarcinoma mouse prostate mice, which develop prostate cancer, TERT-based adoptive cell therapy halted the progression to more aggressive and poorly differentiated tumors, significantly prolonging mouse survival. We also demonstrated that human tumors, including Burkitt lymphoma, and human cancer stem cells, are targeted in vivo by TERT-specific cytotoxic T lymphocytes. Effective therapy with T cells against telomerase, different from active vaccination, however, led to autoimmunity marked by a consistent, although transient, B-cell depletion in primary and secondary lymphoid organs, associated with alteration of the spleen cytoarchitecture. These results indicate B cells as an in vivo target of TERT-specific cytotoxic T lymphocytes during successful immunotherapy.
In vivo biotinylation of the vasculature in B-cell lymphoma identifies BST-2 as a target for antibody-based therapy
Authors: Schliemann Christoph , Roesli Christoph , Kamada Haruhiko , Borgia Beatrice , Fugmann Tim , Klapper Wolfram , Neri Dario
Published: November 2009

The discovery of accessible markers of lymphoma may facilitate the development of antibody-based therapeutic strategies. Here, we describe the results of a chemical proteomic study, based on the in vivo biotinylation of vascular proteins in lymphoma-bearing mice followed by mass spectrometric and bioinformatic analysis, to discover proteins expressed at the tissue-blood border of disseminated B-cell lymphoma. From a list of 58 proteins, which were more than 10-fold up-regulated in nodal and extranodal lymphoma lesions compared with their levels in the corresponding normal host organs, we validated BST-2 as a novel vascular marker of B-cell lymphoma, using immunochemical techniques and in vivo biodistribution studies. Furthermore, targeting BST-2 with 2 independent monoclonal antibodies delayed lymphoma growth in a syngeneic mouse model of the disease. The results of this study delineate a strategy for the treatment of systemic B-cell lymphoma in humans and suggest that anti–BST-2 antibodies may facilitate pharmacodelivery approaches that target the tumor-stroma interface.