bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Role of Natural Killer T Cells in the Pathogenesis of Acute Exacerbation of Human Asthma
Authors: Koh Young-Il , Shim Jae-Uoong , Wi Jeongook , Kwon Yong Eun
Published: January 2012

Background: Natural killer T (NKT) cells have been reported to play a crucial role in the pathogenesis of asthma in a mouse model of acute asthma. The present study aimed to investigate the role of NKT cells in the immune pathogenesis of acute exacerbation of human asthma. Methods: Blood and sputum were obtained at baseline and 8 h after a challenge in 20 asthmatics who underwent allergen bronchial provocation testing and during exacerbation and convalescence in 9 asthmatics who were admitted to hospital with an acute exacerbation after an upper respiratory tract infection. 6B11+ or Vα24+ NKT cells were measured with flow cytometry. Inflammatory cells, cytokines and chemokines were determined in sputum. Results: The number of blood NKT cells did not change after a positive allergen challenge compared to the baseline. However, blood CD4+Vα24+ NKT cells decreased during infection-associated asthma exacerbations compared to the convalescence measurements of the same patients (p < 0.05) or the baseline measurements of asthmatics who underwent allergen challenges (p < 0.01). The number of sputum NKT cells did not change after a positive allergen challenge or during infection-associated asthma exacerbations. Eosinophils and various cytokines and chemokines increased in sputum during infection-associated asthma exacerbations. Blood CD4+Vα24+ NKT cells were inversely related to sputum eosinophils (Spearman’s correlation coefficient = –0.62; p < 0.01). Conclusion: Blood NKT cells decreased during infection-associated asthma exacerbation and were inversely associated with eosinophilic airway inflammation, suggesting that blood NKT cells might be mobilized to the airways and lungs during asthma exacerbation in humans.
Heterologous Expression of Manganese Peroxidase in Aspergillus niger and Its Effect on Phenanthrene Removal from Soil
Authors: Cortés-Espinosa Diana V. , Absalón Ángel E. , Sanchez Noé , Loera Octavio , Rodríguez-Vázquez Refugio , Fernández Francisco J.
Published: January 2012

A strain of Aspergillus niger, previously isolated from sugarcane bagasse because of its capacity to degrade phenanthrene in soil by solid culture, was used to express a manganese peroxidase gene (mnp1) from Phanerochaete chrysosporium, aiming at increasing its polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons degradation capacity. Transformants were selected based on their resistance to hygromycin B and the discoloration induced on Poly R-478 dye by the peroxidase activity. The recombinant A. niger SBC2-T3 strain developed MnP activity and was able to remove 95% of the initial phenanthrene (400 ppm) from a microcosm soil system after 17 days, whereas the wild strain removed 72% under the same conditions. Transformation success was confirmed by PCR amplification using gene-specific primers, and a single fragment (1,348 bp long, as expected) of the recombinant mnp1 was amplified in the DNA from transformants, which was absent from the parental strain.
A Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study of Aripiprazole Adjunctive to Antidepressant Therapy among Depressed Outpatients with Inadequate Response to Prior Antidepressant Therapy (ADAPT-A Study)
Authors: Fava Maurizio , Mischoulon David , Iosifescu Dan , Witte Janet , Pencina Michael , Flynn Martina , Harper Linda , Levy Michael , Rickels Karl , Pollack Mark
Published: January 2012

Background: We assessed the efficacy of low-dose aripiprazole added to antidepressant therapy (ADT) in major depressive disorder (MDD) patients with inadequate response to prior ADT. Methods: As per the sequential parallel comparison design, 225 MDD subjects were randomized to adjunctive treatment with aripiprazole 2 mg/day or placebo across two 30-day phases, with a 2:3:3 randomization ratio to drug/drug (aripiprazole 2 mg/day in phase 1; 5 mg/day in phase 2), placebo/placebo (placebo in both phases), and placebo/drug (placebo in phase 1; aripiprazole 2 mg/day in phase 2). Eligible subjects were patients whose MDD was independently deemed ‘valid’ with SAFER criteria. Subjects had been receiving ADT for ≥8 weeks, and had inadequate response to ≥1 and <4 adequate ADTs in the current episode, as defined by the Antidepressant Treatment Response Questionnaire. Results: The pooled, weighted response difference between aripiprazole 2 mg/day and placebo in the two phases was 5.6% (p = 0.18; NS). The aripiprazole 2 mg/day-placebo difference on the Montgomery-Asberg Depression Rating Scale pooled across the two phases was –1.51 (p = 0.065; NS). Other secondary endpoint analyses showed nonsignificant pooled differences favoring aripiprazole over placebo. Of the 225 randomized subjects in phase 1, 2 dropped out in both arms, while in phase 2, of 138 phase 1 placebo nonresponders, 9 dropped out on aripiprazole and 5 on placebo. There were only minimal differences in adverse event rates between treatments, except for constipation, weight gain, and dry mouth, more common on aripiprazole. Conclusions: This study provides clear support for the tolerability of low-dose aripiprazole as an ADT-augmenting agent, with marginal efficacy.
The Roles of Angiotensin II Receptors in the Portosystemic Collaterals of Portal Hypertensive and Cirrhotic Rats
Authors: Huang Hui-Chun , Chang Ching-Chih , Wang Sun-Sang , Lee Fa-Yauh , Teng Tzu-Hua , Lee Jing-Yi , Lin Han-Chieh , Chuang Chiao-Lin , Lee Shou-Dong
Published: January 2012

Background/Aims:In liver cirrhosis/portal hypertension, collaterals as varices may bleed and are influenced by vasoresponsiveness. An angiotensin blockade ameliorates portal hypertension but the influence on collaterals is unknown. Methods:Portal hypertension and cirrhosis were induced by portal vein (PVL) and common bile duct ligation (BDL). Hemodynamics, real-time PCR of angiotensin II receptors (AT1R, AT2R) in the left adrenal vein (LAV, sham) and splenorenal shunt derived from LAV (PVL, BDL) were performed. With an in situcollateral perfusion model, angiotensin II vasoresponsiveness with different preincubations was evaluated: (1) vehicle; (2) AT1R blocker losartan; (3) losartan plus nonselective nitric oxide synthase (NOS) inhibitor (Nω-nitro-L-arginine); (4) AT2R blocker PD123319; (5) PD123319 plus Nω-nitro-L-arginine; (6) Nω-nitro-L-arginine, and (7) losartan plus inducible NOS inhibitor aminoguanidine. Results: LAV AT1R and AT2R expression decreased in PVL and BDL rats. Losartan attenuated angiotensin II-elicited vasoconstriction but PD123319 had no effect. Nω-nitro-L-arginine but not aminoguanidine reversed the losartan effect. Conclusions:Angiotensin receptors are downregulated in the collateral vessel of portal hypertensive and cirrhotic rats. The AT1R blockade attenuates the angiotensin II vasoconstrictive effect, suggesting AT1R mediates collateral vasoconstriction and the influence of AT2R is negligible. The lack of aminoguanidine influence indicates that endothelial NOS participates in the losartan effect.
Stereotactic Drainage of Empyema of the Cavum Septi Pellucidi et Vergae
Authors: Saryyeva Assel , Nakamura Makoto , Capelle Hans-Holger , Krauss Joachim K.
Published: January 2012

Background: Persistent midline ventricular cavae may only rarely cause clinical symptoms. Exceptionally, empyemas may develop in these cavae. Optimal treatment has been defined only poorly so far. Methods: Here, we report successful treatment of a bacterial empyema in the cavum septi pellucidi et vergae due to sphenoid sinus sinusitis in a 36-year-old woman by stereotactic puncture and drainage of the empyema and long-term administration of antibiotics. Results and Conclusions: Stereotactic puncture and drainage accompanied by antibiotic therapy result in beneficial outcome in the long term. Transcallosal interhemispheric approaches and free-hand techniques should be discouraged since, according to previously published reports, they may result in severe morbidity or mortality in this condition.
Predictors of Future Cognitive Decline in Persons with Mild Cognitive Impairment
Authors: Xie Haiqun , Mayo Nancy , Koski Lisa
Published: January 2012

This study sought first to identify individual items of the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) and demographic variables at baseline that predicted the trajectories of cognitive change among patients with mild cognitive impairment (MCI), and second to quantify the risk of cognitive decline in such patients based on their pattern of failure of MMSE items. 187 MCI patients were evaluated serially with the MMSE for up to 3.5 years. Patients who followed a declining cognitive trajectory differed from the stable reference group in their baseline profile of MMSE test performance. Patient age and performance on delayed recall, constructional praxis, attention, and orientation to time and floor predicted future cognitive decline with good accuracy (79.9%) and specificity (86.4%), and moderate sensitivity (67.2%). These results are presented in the form of a simple clinical tool for quantifying risk of future cognitive decline in MCI.
Safety of Endobronchial Ultrasound-Guided Transbronchial Needle Aspiration for Patients Taking Clopidogrel: A Report of 12 Consecutive Cases
Authors: Stather David R. , MacEachern Paul , Chee Alex , Tremblay Alain
Published: January 2012

Background: Clopidogrel is an oral agent commonly used for primary or secondary prevention of cardiovascular disease. It is associated with an increased risk of bleeding during some medical and surgical procedures. Endobronchial ultrasound-guided transbronchial needle aspiration (EBUS-TBNA) is a new bronchoscopic technique used to accurately biopsy intrathoracic structures during flexible bronchoscopy. It is currently unknown whether clopidogrel increases bleeding complications during EBUS-TBNA procedures. Objectives: To evaluate the safety of clopidogrel use in EBUS-TBNA by identifying consecutive cases of EBUS-TBNA procedures performed on patients taking clopidogrel. Methods: A retrospective review of a prospectively collected quality improvement database from 1,100 consecutive pulmonary procedures performed by an interventional pulmonologist (D.R.S.) at the University of Calgary from July 1st, 2007 to April 1st, 2011 was performed. Results: Twelve cases of EBUS-TBNA procedures performed on patients taking clopidogrel were identified. Mean age was 74 years (range 61–85). Seven patients (66.7%) were taking aspirin in addition to clopidogrel. There was no significant bleeding seen in any cases at the time of bronchoscopy and no additional complications were identified during follow-up (at least 4 weeks; median follow-up 3 months). Conclusions: This series of 12 cases suggests that EBUS-TBNA can be performed safely by experienced operators in patients taking clopidogrel. Nevertheless, until larger prospective studies confirm this hypothesis, proceeding to EBUS-TBNA without first withdrawing clopidogrel should only be performed in situations where the risk of short-term thrombosis is believed to outweigh the (theoretical) risk of bleeding.
ADAM33 as a Psoriasis Susceptibility Gene in the Han Population of Northeastern China
Authors: Zhou Jing , Sun Donglin , Xu Lidan , Sun Liyan , Fu Songbin , Li Yuzhen
Published: January 2012

Background: A disintegrin and metalloprotease 33 (ADAM33) has recently been suspected to be associated with psoriasis. Objective:To study the association between ADAM33 and psoriasis in the northeastern Chinese Han population. Methods: We genotyped six common single nucleotide polymorphisms from ADAM33 in 400 psoriasis cases and 398 controls using the Multiplex SNaPSHOT method. Results: We observed an increased risk of psoriasis to be associated with the rs2787094CC CG, rs528557CC CG genotypes (p < 0.05) and 3 haplotypes (H1, H3, and H5; p < 0.05). We also found that the rs512625AA rs612709AA GA genotypes and haplotype H8 may be protective against psoriasis (p < 0.05). Among these genotypes, rs2787094CC exhibited the strongest association with psoriasis (OR = 2.537,being the highest OR, p = 0.0014). Conclusions: ADAM33 polymorphisms are associated with psoriasis in the northeastern Chinese Han population.
Comparative Analysis of a Putative Tuberculosis-Susceptibility Gene, MC3R, and Pseudogene Sequences in Cattle, African Buffalo, Hyena, Rhinoceros and Other African Bovids and Ruminants
Authors: Müller A. , Möller M. , Adams L.A. , Warren R.M. , Hoal E.G. , van Helden P.D.
Published: January 2012

Studies in humans have suggested the possible involvement of melanocortin-3-receptor (MC3R) and other components of the central melanocortin system in host defense against mycobacteria. We report a genomic DNA nucleotide sequence highly homologous to human MC3R in several bovids and non-bovid African wildlife species. Nucleotide sequence analysis indicates that the orthologous genes of cattle and buffalo are highly homologous (89.4 and 90%, respectively) to the human MC3R gene. Sequence results also identified a typical non-functional, duplicated pseudogene, MC3RP, in 7 species from the family Bovidae. No pseudogene was found in animals outside Bovidae. The presence of the pseudogene in tuberculosis-susceptible species could have possible immunomodulatory effects on susceptibility to bovine tuberculosis infection, as well as a considerable influence on energy metabolism and food conversion efficiency.
Transforming Growth Factor Beta 1 Overexpression Is Closely Related to Invasiveness of Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Lee Danbi , Chung Young-Hwa , Kim Jeong A. , Lee Yoon Seon , Lee Don , Jang Myoung Kuk , Kim Kang Mo , Lim Young-Suk , Lee Han Chu , Lee Yung Sang
Published: January 2012

Objectives: The study was aimed to investigate the relationship between plasma transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGF-β1) expression and the characteristics of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Methods: Five hundred and seventy-one patients with HCC were subjected. Plasma TGF-β1 levels were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay at diagnosis and compared in accordance with clinical and radiological characteristics. Results: Plasma TGF-β1 levels were significantly higher in the diffuse infiltrative type (n = 159) than in the nodular type of HCC (n = 412; 3.94 ± 0.34 vs. 3.79 ± 0.29 log10 pg/ml; p < 0.001). They were much higher in patients with portal vein thrombosis or extrahepatic metastasis than in those without (3.88 ± 0.34 vs. 3.81 ± 0.29 log10 pg/ml, p = 0.008; 3.94 ± 0.35 vs. 3.82 ± 0.30 log10 pg/ml, p = 0.013, respectively). Also, plasma TGF-β1 levels showed a positive correlation with the size of HCC (r = 0.014, p < 0.001). Additionally, plasma TGF-β1 levels were inversely related to the survival periods (p < 0.001). Conclusion: TGF-β1 was overexpressed in invasive types of HCC and it may be involved in the rapid progression of HCC.
Molecular Characterization and Physical Mapping of Two Classes of 5S rDNA in the Genomes of Gymnotus sylvius and G. inaequilabiatus (Gymnotiformes, Gymnotidae)
Authors: Scacchetti P.C. , Alves J.C.P. , Utsunomia R. , Claro F.L. , de Almeida Toledo L.F. , Oliveira C. , Foresti F.
Published: January 2012

The nucleotide sequences of the 5S rRNA multigene family and their distribution across the karyotypes in 2 species of Gymnotiformes, genus Gymnotus (G. sylvius and G. inaequilabiatus) were investigated by means of fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH). The results showed the existence of 2 distinct classes of 5S rDNA sequences in both species: class I and class II. A high conservative pattern of the codifying region of the 5S rRNA gene was identified, contrasting with significant alterations detected in the nontranscribed spacer (NTS). The presence of TATA-like sequences along the NTS of both species was an expected occurrence, since such sequences have been associated with the regulation of the gene expression. FISH using 5S rDNA class I and class II probes revealed that both gene classes were collocated in the same chromosome pair in the genome of G. sylvius, while in that of G. inaequilabiatus, class II appeared more disperse than class I.
47,X,idic(Y),inv dup(Y): A Non-Mosaic Case of a Phenotypically Normal Boy with Two Different Y Isochromosomes and Neocentromere Formation
Authors: Pasantes J.J. , Wimmer R. , Knebel S. , Münch C. , Kelbova C. , Junge A. , Kieback P. , Küpferling P. , Schempp W.
Published: January 2012

A de novo aberrant karyotype with 47 chromosomes including 2 different-sized markers was identified during prenatal diagnosis. Fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) with a Y painting probe tagged both marker chromosomes which were supposed to be isochromosomes of the short and the long arm, respectively. A normal boy was born in time who shows normal physical and mental development. To characterize both Y markers in detail, we postnatally FISH-mapped a panel of Y chromosomal probes including SHOX (PAR1), TSPY, DYZ3 (Y centromere), UTY, XKRY, CDY, RBMY, DAZ, DYZ1 (Yq12 heterochromatin), SYBL1 (PAR2), and the human telomeric sequence (TTAGGG)n. The smaller Y marker turned out to be an isochromosome containing an inverted duplication of the entire short arm, the original Y centromere, and parts of the proximal long arm, including AZFa. The bigger Y marker was an isochromosome of the rest of the Y long arm. Despite a clearly visible primary constriction within one of the DAPI- and DYZ1-positive heterochromatic regions, hybridization of DYZ3 detected no Y-specific alphoid sequences in that constriction. Because of its stable mitotic distribution, a de novo formation of a neocentromere has to be assumed.
Replication and characterisation of genetic variants in the fibrinogen gene cluster with plasma fibrinogen levels and haematological traits in the Third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey
Authors: Jeff Janina M. , Brown-Gentry Kristin , Crawford Dana C.
Published: January 2012

Previous genetic association studies of the fibrinogen gene cluster have identified associations with plasma fibrinogen levels. These studies are typically limited to plasma fibrinogen measured among European-descent populations. We sought to replicate previous well-known associations with fibrinogen variants and plasma fibrinogen. We then sought to identify and characterise novel associations with fibrinogen variants with plasma fibrinogen and several haematological traits in three racial/ethnic populations. We genotyped 25 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the fibrinogen gene cluster in 2,631 non-Hispanic whites, 2,108 non-Hispanic blacks, and 2,073 Mexican-Americans from the Third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). We performed single SNP tests of association for plasma fibrinogen, mean platelet volume, platelet distribution width, platelet count, white blood cell count, and serum triglycerides. Five previously identified associations with plasma fibrinogen replicated in our study in non-Hispanic whites and blacks. We identified two novel associations between genetic variants and decreased plasma fibrinogen: rs2227395 (p=0.0007; non-Hispanic whites) and rs2070022 (p=0.001; Mexican-Americans). Several fibrinogen SNPs were also associated with haema-tological traits: rs6050 with decreased platelet distribution width in non-Hispanic whites; rs6050 and rs2066879 with decreased and increased platelet distribution width, respectively, in non-Hispanic whites; rs2227409 with increased mean platelet volume, rs2070017 with decreased platelet count, and rs6063 with increased platelet distribution width in non-Hispanic blacks; and rs4220 and rs2227395 with decreased white blood cell count, rs2227409 with increased platelet distribution width, rs2066860 and rs1800792 with increased and decreased triclyceride levels, respectively, and rs1800792 with decreased platelet counts in Mexican-Americans. We successfully replicated and identified novel associations with fibrinogen variants and plasma fibrinogen. These data confirm the importance of the fibrinogen gene cluster for plasma fibrinogen levels as well as suggest this gene cluster may have pleiotropic effects on haematological traits.
Increase in the plasma levels of protein Z-dependent protease inhibitor in normal pregnancies but not in non-pregnant patients with unexplained recurrent miscarriage
Authors: Souri Masayoshi , Sugiura-Ogasawara Mayumi , Saito Shigeru , Kemkes-Matthes Bettina , Ichinose Akitada , Meijers Joost C. M.
Published: January 2012

Protein Z (PZ)-dependent protease inhibitor (ZPI) is a serine protease inhibitor which efficiently inactivates activated factor X, when ZPI is complexed with PZ in plasma. Reduced plasma levels of ZPI and PZ have been reported in association with thrombosis. It has also been reported that PZ increases during pregnancy and that its partial deficiency is related to early pregnancy loss or recurrent miscarriage (RM). However, until now there has been no report on ZPI in pregnancy. To explore the possible role(s) of ZPI in the maintenance of pregnancy, we studied 42 non-pregnant normal women, 32 women with normal pregnancies, and 134 cases of unexplained RM in Japan, as well as 64 non-pregnant normal German females. Plasma ZPI was measured by in-house ELISA. There were significantly higher concentrations of plasma ZPI in normal pregnancies compared to non-pregnant women. The present study also confirmed that both factor X, the major target of ZPI, and protein Z increased during normal pregnancies. This increased ZPI and PZ may counteract the increased activated factor X, which may in turn contribute to the maintenance of normal placental circulation. Plasma ZPI levels were unchanged in non-pregnant RM women, while the plasma PZ level was slightly reduced, a finding consistent with existing reports. The exact relationship between RM and this unaltered ZPI with mild PZ reduction relative to normal pregnancies warrants further investigation.

This work was presented at the 23rd International Society on Thrombosis and Haemostasis meetings in Kyoto, July 2011.
The American Narrative: Is There One & What Is It?
Authors: Chafe William H.
Published: January 2012

Nearly four centuries of American history have witnessed the evolving conflict between two competing sets of values: a belief that acting on behalf of the common good should guide social and political behavior, and a belief that unfettered individual freedom should dominate political and social life. Tracing this conflict from Puritanism through the American Revolution, the Civil War, the rise of industrialism, the Progressive Era, the New Deal, the Great Society, and the conservative revival of the Nixon/Reagan era, the essay reveals this clash of values as pivotal to understanding the narrative of American history, with contemporary political battles crystallizing just how basic this conflict has been.
On Western Waters: Anglo-American Nonfictional Narrative in the Nineteenth Century
Authors: Adorno Rolena
Published: January 2012

Anglo-American westward expansion provided a major impulse to the development of the young United States' narrative tradition. Early U.S. writers also looked to the South, that is, to the Spanish New World and, in some cases, to Spain itself. Washington Irving's “A History of the Life and Voyages of Christopher Columbus” (1828), the first full-length biography of the admiral in English, inaugurated the trend, and Mark Twain's “Life on the Mississippi” (1883) transformed it by focusing on the life and lives of the Mississippi River Valley and using an approach informed by Miguel de Cervantes's “Don Quijote de la Mancha.” From Irving's “discovery of America” to Twain's tribute to the disappearing era of steamboat travel and commerce on the Mississippi, the tales about “western waters,” told via their authors' varied engagements with Spanish history and literature, constitute a seldom acknowledged dimension in Anglo-America's nonfictional narrative literary history.
Exceptionalism's Exceptions: The Changing American Narrative
Authors: Lewis David Levering
Published: January 2012

Seven years after 9/11, the American way of life was again shaken to its foundation by the Great Recession of 2008. The logic of an unregulated market economy produced its predetermined result. The American middle class, the historic protagonist of the American narrative, became an endangered species. Against a bleak backdrop of indebtedness, unemployment, and rapid decline in traditional jobs and in the affordability of the essentials of health and education stands the stark wealth of the top 1 percent of Americans. With the vital center no longer holding and consensus fraying, 53 percent of the electorate wagered in 2008 that it could deny race by affirming its non-importance and thereby audaciously reinvigorate the exceptionalist narrative. The choice before us, however, is still much the same as that posited by W.E.B. Du Bois when he described two antithetical versions of the American narrative: one was based on “freedom, intelligence and power for all men; the other was industry for private profit directed by an autocracy determined at any price to amass wealth and power.”
Middle Indo-Aryan Ablative and Locative Markers in Romani
Authors: Beníšek Michael
Published: January 2012

The paper inquires into the origin of Romani ablative and locative markers against the background of the Middle Indo-Aryan development. It shows that there are no overt reflexes of the old thematic locative ending -e in Romani, although several zero-marked adpositions and adverbs are reflexes of the forms in -e. The paper argues for the origin of Romani -e in the late MIA locative -ahim, and of Romani -al in the Śaurasenī ablative -ādo. A degree of adverbial productivity of both suffixes is also dealt with. Then the paper analyses the nominal locative and ablative markers -te and -tar respectively, which derive from postpositions. The initial consonant of both suffixes is proposed to reflect their common ancestor in the pronominal base t-, whereas the final segments -e and -ar are argued to be remnants of inflectional affixes related to -e and -al respectively.
Review Article: Vasubandhu's Pañcaskandhaka
Authors: Buescher Hartmut
Published: January 2012

An introductory appreciation of Ernst Steinkellner and Xuezhu Li's edition of Vasubandhu's Pañcaskandhaka is followed by reflections on the significance of his text in the context of Vasubandhu's authorship and by a translation of the PSk.
The Avestan Paradigm of vaiiu- 'Air, Wind' in the Context of Irregular Accusative Singular Forms of Vowel Stems with °ąm and °∂m
Authors: Remmer Ulla
Published: January 2012

The paradigm of Avestan vaiiu- 'atmosphere, wind' is puzzling because of the seemingly thematic accusative sg. vaēm and because of its short root vowel a that stands in contrast to both the Old Indic counterpart vāayú- < Indo-Iranian *HuaH-iu- and the two parallel Avestan stems pāaiiu- 'shepherd' and tāaiiu- 'thief'. A usually neglected accusative singular form, transmitted only in Ny 1.1 and Ny 1.2, provides a key to the issue: vaiiąm, rather than being an irregular by-form of vāēm, appears to be the original acc. sg., which implies that vaiiu- was originally a long-diphthong inflecting paradigm with Proto-Avestan nom. sg. *uāiāuš, acc. sg. *uāiā(u)m via lex Stang → *uāiām. This preform provides a better context for the shortening of *āia/ā, > *aia/ā, yielding the final root shape of vaiiu-.
Negated Participles in Rgvedic Sanskrit and Proto-Indo-European
Authors: Lowe John
Published: January 2012

In Rgvedic Sanskrit present participles built to transitive roots regularly follow their corresponding finite forms in relation to argument structure. Of those participles whose argument structure differs from that of the corresponding finite forms (most often because they lack the ability to govern an accusative object), some may have originated as adjectives or may have become adjectivized. A particular group of present participles in the Rgveda which tend to remain intransitive even when formed to transitive roots are negated participles, i.e. participles compounded with the negative prefix á(n)-. This is explained by assuming that the combining of a participle with the negative prefix was originally a process of adjectival derivation. Support for this hypothesis comes from a consideration of the two forms of the negated present participle of the verb √as 'be', namely ásant- and āsant-.
The Seeds of Satan: Conceptions of Magic in Contemporary Satanism
Authors: Petersen Jesper Aagaard
Published: January 2012

Aufbauend auf einer Unterscheidung zwischen "Esoterisierung" und Säkularisierung, behandelt der Artikel Theorien und Praktiken der Magie im modernen religiösen Satanismus. Was wir heute unter selbsternannten Satanisten finden, ist nicht das absolute Böse, sondern Weltanschauungen, die auf eklektischen Aneignungen einer breiten Palette kulturellen Materials gründen, und auf dieser Basis durch Inversion, Säuberung und Kombination positive Identitäten zu errichten und zu verstärken suchen. Diese Identitäten und Weltanschauungen werden wiederum vor allem praktiziert: Durch Magie, schaffen Satanisten Umgebungen zur Selbstverwirklichung, in Form von magischen Rollen, magischen Ritualen, neuen Umwelten, ästhetischen Darbietungen und Kunstwerken. Ich beginne mit einer Untersuchung der dualen Natur magischer Praktiken: Magie wird sowohl als utilitaristisches Werkzeug und als ein Ausdruck des Selbst verstanden, und aus dem Blickwinkel von "Esoterisierung" und Säkularisierung analysiert. Im Anschluss daran gebe ich in diesem Rahmen einen Überblick über typische anleitende Handbücher, Skripte und magische Praktiken innerhalb des "Satanischen Milieus". Es soll gezeigt werden, wie die Versöhnung, das Zelebrieren oder Transzendieren der Gegensätze zwischen "wissenschaftlich" und "esoterisch", authentisch und künstlich, sowie zwischen Selbst und Umwelt, Kernpunkte des gegenwärtigen satanischen Diskurses sind.
“We have come from the well of Ibhet”: Ethnogenesis of the Medjay
Authors: Liszka Kate
Published: January 2012

Abstract

Our current understanding of the ancient Nubian people called the Medjay has been informed by textual and artistic representations created by the ancient Egyptians. By studying these sources, Egyptologists have argued that the Medjay were an ethnic group living in the Eastern Desert near the Second Cataract. Yet these studies exhibit an Egyptocentric bias, in which the Egyptian sources have been interpreted literally. This paper reexamines Egyptian references to the Medjay before the New Kingdom and demonstrates how the Egyptians conceptualized and fostered the creation of a Medjay ethnicity. The Egyptians perceived the people of the Eastern Desert near Lower Nubia as one unified ethnic group. Yet these people were not politically unified and did not identify themselves as Medjay until the middle of the Twelfth Dynasty. Increased interaction between the Egyptians and the people of the Eastern Desert caused certain pastoral nomads to adopt the term “Medjay.” Whatever role ethnicity may have played in their society previously, ethnogenesis of a “Medjay” ethnic group began towards the middle of the Twelfth Dynasty.
(Необходимые уточнения)
Authors: Лепехин Михаил Пантелеевич
Published: January 2012

Посвященная раскрытию псевдонимов двух авторов «Парижского вестника» (1943-1944) – «профессора А.В. Гротова» и «Н. Анина» статья затрагивает проблему происхождения отечественного коллаборационизма во время Второй мировой войны. На примере взаимоотношений С.В. Сигриста, Н.С. Давиденкова и М.М. Спасовского показано взаимосцепление людей и идей «первой» и «второй» волн русской эмиграции. Особое внимание уделено эволюции взглядов эмиграции на т.н. «еврейский вопрос» - в частности, представлений о нем в т.н. «Власовском движении».
Quantification of the Small-Scale Spatial Structure of the Raindrop Size Distribution from a Network of Disdrometers
Authors: Jaffrain Joël , Berne Alexis
Published: January 2012

The spatial structure of the raindrop size distribution (DSD) conveys crucial information for reliable quantitative estimation of rainfall using remote sensing techniques. To investigate this question, a network of 16 optical disdrometers has been deployed over a typical weather radar pixel (~1 × 1 km2) in Lausanne, Switzerland. A set of 36 rainfall events has been classified according to three types: convective, transitional, and frontal. In a first step, the spatial structure of the DSD is quantified using spatial correlation for comparison with the literature, showing good agreement with previous studies. The spatial structure of important quantities related to the DSD—namely, the total concentration of drops Nt, the mass-weighted diameter Dm, and the rain rate R—is quantified using variograms. Results clearly highlight that DSD fields are organized and not randomly distributed even at a scale below 1 km. Moreover, convective-type rainfall exhibits larger variability of the DSD than do transitional and frontal rainfall. The temporal resolution is shown to have an influence on the results: increasing time steps tend to decrease the spatial variability. This study presents a possible application of such information by quantifying the error associated with the use of point measurements as areal estimates at larger scales. Analyses have been conducted for different sizes of domain ranging from 100 × 100 to 1000 × 1000 m2. As expected, this error is increasing with the size of the domain. For instance, for a domain of ~1000 × 1000 m2, the error associated with rain-rate estimates is on the order of 25% for all types of rain.
A Re-New-ed Paradigm in Successful Urban School Leadership
Authors: Khalifa Muhammad
Published: January 2012

Purpose: This article examines the impact that a principal’s community-leadership has on school–community relations and student outcomes. Comparisons are drawn between leadership behaviors that emphasize school-centered approaches and community-centered approaches. Research Methodology: Ethnographic research methodology was conducted over a 2-year period, during which the researcher conducted participant observations, interviews, and descriptive and interpretive memoing. Findings: The principal’s role as community leader—including high principal visibility in the community and advocacy for community causes—led to trust and rapport between school and community. Consequently, parents who were previously hostile changed their relationship with school, and supported his or her handling of their children. This led to improved academic outcomes for students. Implications: This study has implications for how principals view their role, presence in, and relationship with the community. It also offers reflection on how and where the center of school– community relationships should be (i.e., school vs. community).
Effects of Recombinant Dentin Sialoprotein in Dental Pulp Cells
Authors: Lee S.-Y. , Kim S.-Y. , Park S.-H. , Kim J.-J. , Jang J.-H. , Kim E.-C.
Published: January 2012

Dentin sialophosphoprotein (DSPP) is critical for dentin mineralization. However, the function of dentin sialoprotein (DSP), the cleaved product of DSPP, remains unclear. This study aimed to investigate the signal transduction pathways and effects of recombinant human DSP (rh-DSP) on proliferation, migration, and odontoblastic differentiation in human dental pulp cells (HDPCs). The exogenous addition of rh-DSP enhanced the proliferation and migration of HDPCs in dose- and time-dependent manners. rh-DSP markedly increased ALP activity, calcium nodule formation, and levels of odontoblastic marker mRNA. rh-DSP increased BMP-2 expression and Smad1/5/8 phosphorylation, which was blocked by the BMP antagonist, noggin. Furthermore, rh-DSP phosphorylated extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK), c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK), Akt, and IκB-α, and induced the nuclear translocation of the NF-κB p65 subunit. Analysis of these data demonstrates a novel signaling function of rh-DSP for the promotion of growth, migration, and differentiation in HDPCS via the BMP/Smad, JNK, ERK, MAPK, and NF-κB signaling pathways, suggesting that rh-DSP may have therapeutic utility in dentin regeneration or dental pulp tissue engineering.
Institutional Structures for State Growth Management
Authors: Lewis Rebecca , Knaap Gerrit-Jan
Published: January 2012

State attempts to influence land use and development patterns have waxed and waned over the years and vary extensively from state to state. Among the approaches, states have taken toward these ends are the construction, adoption, and implementation of state development plans (SDPs). This article examines SDPs in five states: Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, New Jersey, and Rhode Island with a particular focus on their institutional structure. Unlike the institutional structure of local planning, where the participants and their roles are relatively well established and uniform nationwide, there exist considerable differences in the development, adoption, and implementation of state plans. Each of the five states thus offers unique insights for addressing intergovernmental relationships in land-use planning.
Epidemiology of Clinical Perineural Invasion in Cutaneous Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Head and Neck
Authors: Solares C. Arturo , Lee Ken , Parmar Priya , O’Rourke Peter , Panizza Benedict
Published: January 2012

Background

Perineural invasion (PNI) in cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck (CSCCHN) is associated with decreased survival. Large‐nerve PNI presents with clinical signs and symptoms and/or magnetic resonance imaging evidence of cranial nerve involvement. We sought to determine which variables predict a worse outcome and to analyze patterns of failure.

Study Design

Case series with planned data collection.

Setting

Tertiary care center.

Subjects and Methods

Patients with large‐nerve PNI from CSCCHN between 1996 and 2006 were identified from a prospectively collected database. Clinical and demographic variables were recorded. Local control rates and survival analysis were performed using Kaplan‐Meier curves.

Results

Thirty‐six patients were identified (28 men and 8 women). The mean age was 61 years. Twenty‐nine were treated with curative intent, and 7 received palliation. The mean follow‐up was 35 months. Involvement of V3, disease zone, and the type of therapy were significantly associated with overall survival (P <. 05). The 5‐year disease‐free survival for patients by therapy was 50% for subcranial surgeries, 53.6% for skull base surgery, and 0% for radiation and palliative therapies (P <. 001). None of the patients treated with a skull base resection had a central recurrence, while all patients who received palliation had a central failure.

Conclusions

Disease extent, type of therapy, and involvement of V3 are all significant predictors of survival in PNI from CSCCHN. We confirmed that the natural history of the disease is central progression and that this can be halted, if detected early enough, by a properly planned skull base resection.
Documentaries: Motivating the tech generation to research and write
Authors: Price Dallas
Published: January 2012

This article describes the process, tools, and benefits of engaging highly gifted middle-school age students in producing historical documentaries. Dallas Price, a sixth-grade teacher in a self-contained public school program for highly gifted students, highlights the project components that help students develop twenty-first-century skills within a content- and inquiry-driven historical documentary project. Collaboration, communication, critical thinking, and craftsmanship are project outcomes.
The broad reach of the wellbeing debate: Emotional wellbeing and vision loss
Authors: Marquès-Brocksopp Lorna
Published: January 2012

What is meant by the term ‘wellbeing’? Much has been written on the relationship between chronic illness and mental health outcomes, particularly in terms of ‘happiness’, and the reciprocal relationship between physical and emotional health. Visual impairment research into wellbeing has tended to focus specifically on the concept of e motional wellbeing, and how functional disability may impact negatively on mental health. As a consequence of such research, there is an increasing awareness of the importance of ‘preventing’ negative mental health outcomes in the visually impaired population and ‘promoting’ emotional wellbeing. However, despite the many wellbeing interventions and initiatives, the actual meaning of the term remains rather nebulous. Depending on one’s standpoint, ‘wellbeing’ may translate as a physical, social, emotional or even spiritual construct and follow different models which all have their own agendas, aims, methodologies and discourse. Furthermore, a shift is evident towards a two-dimensional framework of wellbeing which considers not just what makes chronically ill individuals happy in terms of goals and aspirations, but what makes them ‘flourish’ and find meaning in life. It is specifically this second dimension of wellbeing which remains to be investigated in visual impairment research. The purpose of this article is therefore to present the theoretical underpinnings of the wellbeing agenda, the methodological implications, and the impact on future research into wellbeing and visual impairment.
Provision of learning and teaching materials for pupils with visual impairment: Results from a National Survey in Zambia
Authors: Akakandelwa Akakandelwa , Munsanje Joseph
Published: January 2012

The aim of this study was to determine the provision of learning and teaching materials for pupils with visual impairment in basic and high schools of Zambia. A survey approach utilizing a questionnaire, interviews and a review of the literature was adopted for the study. The findings demonstrated that most schools in Zambia did not provide adequate and suitable learning and teaching materials to pupils with visual impairment. Further, many schools did not have resource rooms for storage and use of learning and teaching materials for these pupils. Though most schools have a policy for procurement of learning and teaching materials, their budgetary allocations for such activities are usually too small or non-existent. Consequently, most children with visual impairment appear to perform poorly in their studies and are required to drop science and mathematics subjects due to lack of teaching and learning materials. The study recommends that a good infrastructure is required to ensure the development of quality learning and teaching materials, a workable procurement system, an effective and efficient distribution system of learning and teaching materials, and teacher training in the use of materials for the children.
‘Drinking Chai with a Sociologist’: Review Article for Christianity, Politics and Public Life in Kenya, by Paul Gifford
Authors: Okesson Gregg A.
Published: January 2012

Over a shared cup of chai, church leaders imaginatively sit with Professor Gifford to talk about his latest book, where he indicts the churches in Kenya with a ‘domesticated’ form of Christianity. In what otherwise would be a highly polemical encounter, theological hospitality brings the two parties together for constructive dialogue. Theological and sociological perspectives move together to offer nuanced interpretation into the diversity of Christianity in the country, with attention to how the various churches can draw upon their ecclesiastical resources to better stand against the forces that precipitate socio-political abuse, and thus function as agents of life.
Effects of gait rehabilitation with a footpad-type locomotion interface in patients with chronic post-stroke hemiparesis: a pilot study
Authors: Tanaka Naoki , Saitou Hideyuki , Takao Toshifumi , Iizuka Noboru , Okuno Junko , Yano Hiroaki , Tamaoka Akira , Yanagi Hisako
Published: January 2012

Objective:

We developed a footpad-type locomotion interface called the GaitMaster. The purpose of this pilot study was to examine the effects of gait rehabilitation using the GaitMaster in chronic stroke patients.

Design:

Randomized cross-over design.

Setting:

An outpatient department.

Subjects:

Twelve patients with chronic post-stroke hemiparesis.

Intervention:

In group A, patients underwent an ‘intervention phase’ followed by a ‘non-intervention phase’, whereas in group B, patients underwent the non-intervention phase first, followed by the intervention phase. In the four- or six-week intervention phase, participants underwent twelve 20-minute sessions of gait rehabilitation using the GaitMaster4.

Main outcome measures:

We measured gait speed and timed up-and-go test.

Results:

No differences between the two groups were observed in the baseline clinical data. For the combined groups A and B, the maximum gait and timed up-and-go test speeds improved significantly only in the intervention phase ( P = 0.0001 and P = 0.003, respectively). The percentages of improvement from baseline at the end of GaitMaster training were 16.6% for the maximum gait speed and 8.3% for the timed up-and-go test. The effect size for GaitMaster4 training was 0.58 on the maximum gait speed and 0.43 on the timed up-and-go test.

Conclusions:

This pilot study showed that gait rehabilitation using the GaitMaster4 was a feasible training method for chronic stroke patients. Calculation of the sample size indicated that a sample size of 38 participants would be adequate to test a null hypothesis of nil benefit additional to routine rehabilitation for chronic stroke patients in a future randomized controlled trial.
Emotional Ownership
Authors: Björnberg Åsa , Nicholson Nigel
Published: January 2012

“The Next Generations” in family firms are the key to the survival of the sector, yet gaps remain in the knowledge about their relationship with the firm. This research focuses on the determinants of this relationship. The concept of emotional ownership emerged as an explanatory variable in a qualitative study, followed by a quantitative study, where the authors report the development of a robust measure and identify its key predictors using a large sample. Results include confirmation that emotional ownership is orthogonal to actual ownership, yet an outcome of behaviors, structures, and strategies within the control of families and their firms.
On validation of multibody musculoskeletal models
Authors: Lund Morten Enemark , de Zee Mark , Andersen Michael Skipper , Rasmussen John
Published: January 2012

We review the opportunities to validate multibody musculoskeletal models in view of the current transition of musculoskeletal modelling from a research topic to a practical simulation tool in product design, healthcare and other important applications. This transition creates a new need for justification that the models are adequate representations of the systems they simulate. The need for a consistent terminology and established standards is identified and knowledge from fields with a more progressed state-of-the-art in verification and validation is introduced. A number of practical steps for improvement of the validation of multibody musculoskeletal models are pointed out and directions for future research in the field are proposed. It is hoped that a more structured approach to model validation can help to improve the credibility of musculoskeletal models.