bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of wound healing activity of Lantana camara L. – a Preclinical study
Authors: Nayak B. Shivananda , Raju S. Sivachandra , Eversley Mathew , Ramsubhag Adash
Published: October 2008

Lantana camara is used in herbal medicine for the treatment of skin itches, as an antiseptic for wounds, and externally for leprosy and scabies. The objective of our study was to investigate excision wound healing activity of the leaf extract of L. camara in rats. The animals were divided into two groups of 12 each in both the models. The test group animals were treated with the aqueous extract of L. camara (100 mg/kg/day) topically and the control group animals were left untreated. Wound healing efficacy was measured by determining the morphological and biochemical parameters. Wound healing time, wound contraction and synthesis of collagen were monitored periodically. Antimicrobial activities of the extract against the microorganisms were also assessed. Treatment of the wounds with extract enhanced significantly the rate of wound contraction (98%), synthesis of collagen and decreased mean wound healing time. These studies demonstrate that L. camara is effective in healing excision wounds in the experimental animal and could be evaluated as a therapeutic agent in tissue repair processes associated with skin injuries. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Alpinia katsumadai hayata prevents mouse sepsis induced by cecal ligation and puncture through promoting bacterial clearance and downregulating systemic inflammation
Authors: Yang Jian , Dai Yue , Xia Yu‐Feng , Huang Wen‐Zhe , Wang Zheng‐Tao
Published: October 2008

Sepsis continues to be a challenge in clinic. Therapeutic strategies focus on local host defenses and the inhibition of overwhelming inflammation response. The present study aimed to investigate the protective effects and the underlying mechanisms of the ethanol extract of Alpinia katsumadai Hayata seeds (EAKH) on polymicrobial sepsis induced by cecal ligation and puncture (CLP) in mice. It was shown that oral administration of EAKH at 1 h before and 2 h after CLP significantly elevated the survival rate and the mean arterial pressure of mice. Histological examination and serum ALT/AST assessment demonstrated that EAKH protected the animals from lung and liver tissue injury and dysfunction. Although EAKH was devoid of direct bacteriostatic or bacteriocidal activities, it facilitated peritoneal bacteria clearance and increased leukocyte migration into peritoneal cavity of septic mice. Furthermore, EAKH remarkably decreased serum pro‐inflammatory cytokine (TNF‐α, IL‐1β and NO) levels in septic mice. These findings demonstrated that EAKH has preventive effects on mouse sepsis induced by CLP, which may be attributed to elevating local defense via promoting leukocyte migration to infection focus and attenuating systemic inflammation. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Inhibition of human P450 enzymes by natural extracts used in traditional medicine
Authors: Rodeiro Idania , Donato María T. , Jimenez Nuria , Garrido Gabino , Molina‐Torres Jorge , Menendez Roberto , Castell José V. , Gómez‐Lechón María J.
Published: October 2008

Different medicinal plants are widely used in Cuba and Mexico to treat several disorders. This paper reports in vitro inhibitory effects on the P450 system of herbal products commonly used by people in Cuba and Mexico in traditional medicine for decades. Experiments were conducted in human liver microsomes. The catalytic activities of CYP1A1/2, 2D6, and 3A4 were measured using specific probe substrates. The Heliopsis longipes extract exhibited a concentration‐dependent inhibition of the three enzymes, and similar effects were produced by affinin (an alkamide isolated from the H. longipes extract) and two catalytically reduced alkamides. Mangifera indica L. and Thalassia testudinum extracts, two natural polyphenol‐rich extracts, diminished CYP1A1/2 and 3A4 activities, but not the CYP2D6 activity. These results suggest that these herbs inhibit the major human P450 enzymes involved in drug metabolism and could induce potential herbal‐drug interactions. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Neuroprotective effects of Tanshinone IIA on permanent focal cerebral ischemia in mice
Authors: Dong Kenan , Xu Wei , Yang Jun , Qiao Hongxiang , Wu Limao
Published: October 2008

The objective of this study was to evaluate whether Tanshinone IIA (TSA) was neuroprotective in permanent focal cerebral ischemia and to determine the possible mechanisms of its neuroprotection. Mice were subjected to permanent middle cerebral artery occlusion. The neuroprotection of TSA was investigated with respect to neurological deficit scores and infarct volume. Biochemical analyses for malondialdehyde (MDA) content and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity in serum, and nitric oxide (NO) content and the inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) activity in brain tissue were performed at 24 h after ischemia. Immunohistochemistry was used to measure the expression of iNOS. In vitro, the effects of TSA were tested in the cultured astrocytes exposed to hydrogen dioxide (H2O2). TSA (5, 10 and 20 mg/kg, i.p.) significantly reduced the infarct volume and improve neurological deficit. TSA also significantly increased the activity of SOD after 24 h of ischemia and decreased the MDA level, NO content, and iNOS expression. In vitro, the translocation of NF‐κB was inhibited by TSA and the survival rate of astrocytes was markedly increased and the NO production was decreased. In conclusion, these results illustrated that TSA protected the brain from ischemic injury by suppressing the oxidative stress and the radical‐mediated inflammatory insult. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Synergistic inhibitory effect of sulforaphane and 5‐fluorouracil in high and low metastasis cell lines of salivary gland adenoid cystic carcinoma
Authors: Wang Xiao‐Feng , Wu Dong‐Mei , Li Bao‐Xin , Lu Yan‐Jie , Yang Bao‐Feng
Published: October 2008

The present study aimed to evaluate the growth‐inhibitory effect of sulforaphane (SFN) and a traditional chemotherapy agent, 5‐fluorouracil (5‐Fu), against the proliferation of salivary gland adenoid cystic carcinoma high metastatic cell line (ACC‐M) and low metastasis cell line (ACC‐2). Furthermore, the expression of nuclear factor kappa B (NF‐κB) which induces resistance to anticancer chemotherapeutic agents was also detected. The combination effect of SFN and 5‐Fu was quantitatively determined using the method of median effect principle and the combination index. The nuclear NF‐κB p65 expression after treatment with the SFN‐5‐Fu combination was also evaluated by western blot analysis. The ACC‐M and ACC‐2 cells exhibited relative resistant to 5‐Fu. Treatment ACCs cells with SFN and 5‐Fu in combination, led to synergistic inhibition on cell growth and a decreased expression in nuclear NF‐κB p65 protein. This synergistic inhibitory effect was more significant in ACC‐M cells, which is associated with the greatly decreased expression of NF‐κB p65 (almost 5‐fold) after the combination treatment. Our results demonstrate synergism between SFN and 5‐Fu at higher doses against the ACC‐M and ACC‐2 cells, which was associated with the decreased expression of nuclear NF‐κB p65 protein. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Antiamnesic potential of Murraya koenigii leaves
Authors: Vasudevan Mani , Parle Milind
Published: October 2008

Murraya koenigii leaves commonly known as curry patta are added routinely to Indian gravy and vegetarian dishes as a favorite condiment. The effects of Murraya koenigii leaves (MKL) on cognitive functions, total serum cholesterol level and brain cholinesterase activity in young and aged mice fed orally with a diet containing 2%, 4% and 8% w/w of MKL for 30 days consecutively, were investigated. The memory scores were measured using various exteroceptive and interoceptive behavioral models. The MKL diets produced a significant dose‐dependent improvement in the memory scores of young and aged mice and significantly reduced the amnesia induced by scopolamine (0.4 mg/kg, i.p.) and diazepam (1 mg/kg, i.p.). Also, brain cholinesterase activity and total cholesterol levels were reduced by the MKL diets. The underlying mechanism of action for the observed nootropic effect may be attributed to pro‐cholinergic activity and a cholesterol lowering property. Therefore, it would be worthwhile to investigate specifically the therapeutic potential of MKL in the management of Alzheimer patients. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Pharmacokinetics of anthraquinones in Xiexin decoction and in different combinations of its constituent herbs
Authors: Yan Dongming , Ma Yueming , Shi Rong , Xu Desheng , Zhang Ning
Published: October 2008

Xiexin decoction (XXD), a classic pyretolysis formula, is composed of Rhei Rhizoma (DH), Radix Scutellaria (HQ) and Coptis Chinensis (HL) and is commonly used in the clinical setting. The aim of this study was to investigate the pharmacokinetic differences of the five anthraquinones in rats after oral administration of XXD and different combinations of its constituent herbs. Twenty rats were randomly divided into four groups and were administered one of the four extracts: DH, DH‐HQ, DH‐HL and XXD (DH‐HQ‐HL) via intragastric gavage. Anthraquinone concentrations in plasma were determined by an HPLC technique. Pharmacokinetic parameters were calculated from the plasma concentration–time data. Compared with DH alone, the DH‐HL combination decreased Cmax of all five anthraquinones and AUC of four anthraquinones (except physcion), and the DH‐HQ combination decreased AUC of aloe‐emodin and Cmax of rhein. Finally, XXD increased AUC of all five anthraquinones compared with DH‐HL combination. These results showed that the oral bioavailabilities of five anthraquinones were decreased significantly by combining DH with HL, whereas HQ weakened the effect of HL that inhibited the absorption of anthraquinones. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Cannabidiol in medicine: a review of its therapeutic potential in CNS disorders
Authors: Scuderi Caterina , Filippis Daniele De , Iuvone Teresa , Blasio Angelo , Steardo Antonio , Esposito Giuseppe
Published: October 2008

Cannabidiol (CBD) is the main non‐psychotropic component of the glandular hairs ofCannabis sativa. It displays a plethora of actions including anticonvulsive, sedative, hypnotic, antipsychotic, antiinflammatory and neuroprotective properties. However, it is well established that CBD produces its biological effects without exerting significant intrinsic activity upon cannabinoid receptors. For this reason, CBD lacks the unwanted psychotropic effects characteristic of marijuana derivatives, so representing one of the bioactive constituents ofCannabis sativawith the highest potential for therapeutic use.

The present review reports the pharmacological profile of CBD and summarizes results from preclinical and clinical studies utilizing CBD, alone or in combination with other phytocannabinoids, for the treatment of a number of CNS disorders. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
5‐Hydroxytryptamine2Areceptor binding activity of compounds fromLitsea sessilis
Authors: Chung Lip Yong , Lo Mee Wah , Mustafa Muhammad Rais , Goh Swee Hock , Imiyabir Zamrie
Published: October 2008

A 96‐well microplate filtration based 5‐HT2Areceptor‐radioligand binding assay was optimized and adopted to carry out a bioassay‐guided fractionation of the methanol extract of the leaves ofLitsea sessilis. This purification led to the isolation of two compounds identified as (+)‐boldine (1) and (+)‐dehydrovomifoliol (2). (+)‐Boldine binds to 5‐HT2Areceptors at high concentrations with aKivalue of 2.16 µm. However, (+)‐dehydrovomifoliol showed minimal competitive inhibition on the binding of [3H]ketanserin to the same receptor with aKivalue of 2.06 mm. These results suggest that (+)‐boldine influences the activity of 5‐HT2Areceptors through competitive binding as an agonist or antagonist. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Antioxidant metabolism induced by quinic acid. increased urinary excretion of tryptophan and nicotinamide
Authors: Pero Ronald W. , Lund Harald , Leanderson Tomas
Published: October 2008

For over 50 years, hippuric/quinic acids were believed to have no biological efficacy. Here data are presented to support the hypothesis that quinic acid is not responsible for any efficacy, but rather that quinic acid nutritionally supports the synthesis of tryptophan and nicotinamide in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, and that this in turn leads to DNA repair enhancement and NF‐kB inhibition via increased nicotinamide and tryptophan production.

Moreover, it is shown that quinic acid is a normal constituent of our diet, capable of conversion to tryptophan and nicotinamide via the GI tract microflora, thus providing an in situ physiological source of these essential metabolic ingredients to humans. The concentrations of quinic and hippuric acids in the diet were dependent on each other when analysed in urine, as was evidenced by a significant linear regression analysis that included unsupplemented control subjects (n = 45, p < 0.001). Thus, these ingredients were identified as major dietary components, and not simply originating from environmental pollution as previously had been thought. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic study of interaction ofRhodiola roseaSHR‐5 extract with warfarin and theophylline in rats
Authors: Panossian Alexander , Hovhannisyan Areg , Abrahamyan Hasmik , Gabrielyan Emil , Wikman Georg
Published: October 2008

Significant pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic interactions between various herbal products and drugs being substrates of cytochrome P450 have recently been reported. The aim of this study was to determine whetherRhodiola roseaSHR‐5 extract interacts with warfarin and theophylline when administered concomitantly. Thus, concomitant treatment of rats with theophylline and SHR‐5 did not give rise to significant effects on the pharmacokinetics of theophylline. Simultaneous administration of SHR‐5 and warfarin did not alter significantly the pharmacokinetics or the anticoagulant activity of warfarin. It is concluded that SHR‐5 might be of value in the treatment of patients with mild or moderate depression, and that its interaction with co‐administered drugs is likely to be negligible. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The therapeutic effect of modified Yu Ping Feng San on idiopathic sweating in end‐stage cancer patients during hospice care
Authors: Chiu Shih‐Che , Lai Yuen‐Liang , Chang Hen‐Hong , Chang Kou‐Hwa , Chen Shun‐Ting , Liao Hui‐Fen , Chen Yu‐Yawn , Chen Yu‐Jen
Published: October 2008

End‐stage cancer patients frequently suffer from idiopathic sweating of unknown cause. This study was to evaluate the effect (primary endpoint) of modified Yu Ping Feng San on idiopathic sweating and adverse reactions (secondary endpoint). Thirty two end‐stage cancer patients receiving hospice care, with exclusion criteria including sweating due to known causes and taking drugs which may affect the sweating threshold were enrolled. Patients received modified Yu Ping Feng San for 10 consecutive days. The quantitative measurement of sweating showed 26 patients (81.3%) had complete remission of sweating, and the average time required to reach 50% reduction was 4.6 days. The visual analog scale (VAS) sweating score estimated by patients and care‐givers showed that the mean reductions were 8.4 and 9.1 points, respectively. An increase in appetite was experienced by 65.6% of patients, after administration of modified Yu Ping Feng San. The most prevalent treatment‐related complications were nausea (15.6%), diarrhea (9.3%) and allergy (3.1%) without severity greater than grade 2, and these were reversible after cessation of treatment. These results suggest that modified Yu Ping Feng San is a safe and effective treatment for idiopathic sweating of unknown cause in end‐stage cancer patients. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
In vitroscreening for the tumoricidal properties of international medicinal herbs
Authors: Mazzio Elizabeth A. , Soliman Karam F. A.
Published: October 2008

There is growing use of anticancer complementary and alternative medicines (CAMs) worldwide. The purpose of the current study is to assess a sizeable variety of natural and plant sources of diverse origin, to ascertain prospective research directives for cancer treatment and potential new chemotherapy drug sources. In this study, 374 natural extracts (10 µg/mL–5 mg/mL) were evaluated for dose‐dependent tumoricidal effects using immortal neuroblastoma of spontaneous malignant origin. The findings indicate no pattern of tumoricidal effects by diverse plants with similar families/genus under the classes Pinopsida, Equisetopsida, Lycopodiosida, Filicosida, Liliopsida Monocotyledons or Magnoliopsida Dicotyledons. The results indicate that many of the most commonly used CAMs exhibited relatively weak tumoricidal effects including cats claw, astragalus, ginseng, echinacea, mistletoe, milk thistle, slippery elm, cayenne, chamomile, don quai, meadowsweet, motherwort and shepherd's purse. The data demonstrate that the most potent plant extracts were randomly dispersed within the plantae kingdom (LC50= 31–490 µg/mL) in order of the lowest LC50Dioscorea villosa(Dioscoreaceae) >Sanguinaria canadensis(Papaveraceae) >Dipsacus asper(Dipsacaceae) >Populus balsamifera(Salicaceae) >Boswellia carteri(Burseraceae) >Cyamopsis psoralioides(Fabaceae) >Rhamnus cathartica(Rhamnaceae) >Larrea tridentate(Zygophyllaceae) >Dichroa febrifuga(Hydrangeaceae) >Batschia canescens(Boraginaceae) >Kochia scoparia(Chenopodiaceae) >Solanum xanthocarpum(Solanaceae) >Opoponaxchironium (Umbelliferae) >Caulophyllum thalictroides(Berberidaceae) >Dryopteris crassirhizoma(Dryopteridaceae) >Garcinia cambogia(Clusiaceae) >Vitex agnus‐castus(Verbenaceae) >Calamus draco(Arecaceae).These findings show tumoricidal effect by extracts of wild yam root, bloodroot, teasel root, bakuchi seed, dichroa root, kanta kari, garcinia fruit, mace, dragons blood and the biblically referenced herbs: balm of gilead bud, frankincense and myrrh gum. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Heterointerfaces in Semiconductor Nanowires
Authors: Agarwal Ritesh
Published: October 2008

Semiconductor nanowires have attracted considerable recent interest due to their unique properties, including their highly anisotropic geometry, large surface‐to‐volume ratio, and carrier and photon confinement. Currently, tremendous efforts are devoted to the rational synthesis of advanced nanowire heterostructures. Yet, if functional devices are to be made from these materials, precise control over their composition, structure, morphology, and dopant concentration must be achieved. Their fundamental properties must also be carefully investigated since the presence of a large surface and interfacial area in nanowires can profoundly alter their performance. In this article, the progress, promise, and challenges in the area of nanowire heterostructured materials are reviewed, with particular emphasis on the effect of different types of heterointerfaces on device properties.

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Cocaine activates Homer1 immediate early gene transcription in the mesocorticolimbic circuit: Differential regulation by dopamine and glutamate signaling
Authors: Ghasemzadeh M. Behnam , Windham Lindsay K. , Lake Russell W. , Acker Christopher J. , Kalivas Peter W.
Published: October 2008

Homer proteins are intracellular scaffolding proteins that, among glutamate receptors, selectively bind to group1 metabotropic glutamate receptors and regulate their trafficking and intracellular signaling. Homer proteins have been implicated in synaptic and behavioral plasticity, including drug‐seeking behavior after cocaine treatment.Homer1gene activation leads to transcription of a variant mRNA (Homer1a), which functions as an immediate early gene. Homer1a competes with the constitutive Homer proteins (Homer1b/c/d, Homer2a/b, Homer3) for binding to group1 metabotropic glutamate and IP3 receptors. Binding of Homer1a to these proteins disrupts their association with the intracellular signaling scaffold and modulates receptor function. In this study, using RT‐PCR, activation ofHomer1amRNA transcription in response to acute and repeated administration of cocaine was characterized in prefrontal cortex, nucleus accumbens, and ventral tegmental area, three mesocorticolimbic nuclei of the rat brain. Moreover, the dopaminergic and glutamatergic regulation ofHomer1gene activation by cocaine was investigated. Acute cocaine rapidly and transiently activated transcription ofHomer1amRNA in all three nuclei. However, repeated administration of cocaine was not effective in inducing theHomer1amRNA transcription after various withdrawal times ranging from 2 h to 3 weeks. The acute cocaine‐mediated activation ofHomer1gene was regulated by D1 but not D2 dopamine receptors. The blockade of AMPA or NMDA glutamate receptors did not prevent cocaine‐mediated activation ofHomer1gene in the three mesocorticolimbic nuclei. These data indicate that acute administration of cocaine transiently activatesHomer1gene producing the immediate early geneHomer1amRNA in the three mesocorticolimbic nuclei of the rat brain. Activation ofHomer1gene may contribute to the cocaine‐mediated synaptic and behavioral plasticity. Synapse 63:42–53, 2009. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Homeland security preparedness: Balancing protection with resilience in emergent systems
Authors: Haimes Yacov Y. , Crowther Kenneth , Horowitz Barry M.
Published: October 2008

The report of the President's Commission on Critical Infrastructure Protection [PCCIP, Executive Order 13010, The White House, Washington, DC, 1997] which was issued in October 1997 set in motion a revolutionary and expensive national homeland security initiative under the rubric of critical infrastructure protection. The PCCIP addressed a plethora of sources of risk to the nation's critical infrastructures, along with numerous risk management options. For simplicity, we partition solution possibilities into two major types: protecting system assets and adding resilience to systems. Much of government research efforts focus on analyzing component systems and their assets. Systems engineers are particularly interested in characteristics that emerge from the system design, which are affected by changes to component systems, but also by changes that reflect the way systems are constructed and integrated. Adding resilience to a system expands the focus beyond component systems to include a study of emergent, system‐level attributes for homeland security consideration. Balancing protective and resilience actions through system‐level analysis will provide a means to improve the overall efficiency of regional and national preparedness. This paper explores concepts of emergence, resilience, and preparedness as a foundation for establishing a framework to assess the balance between the two areas of infrastructure risk mitigation. We propose several considerations that must be included in a framework to assess protection and resilience tradeoffs, and we present a simple illustrative study that demonstrates several of the framework concepts and provides a means for further discussion about the complex interactions that are faced when evaluating the resilience of a system. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Syst Eng
A Unified Survey of Applicability of Theories of Mixed Adsorbed Film and Mixed Micellization
Authors: Chakraborty Tanushree , Ghosh Soumen
Published: October 2008

Mixed micelles are an ever‐interesting field in applied as well as academic research. An interesting problem is to determine the composition of the mixed monolayer and the micellar phase and interaction parameters among the individual components. Several theories have already been put forward to address these problems. In this work, we attempt to apply several theories to several experimental systems already published. Experimental elucidation of the proportion of individual components in such a mixed state of aggregation is impossible up till now to the best of our knowledge.
South Asian diets and insulin resistance
Authors: Misra Anoop , Khurana Lokesh , Isharwal Sumit , Bhardwaj Swati
Published: October 2008

A role of dietary nutrients in relation to insulin resistance has been suggested but conclusive evidence in human beings is lacking. Asian Indians and South Asians are prone to develop insulin resistance and the metabolic syndrome. In the present paper, data pertaining to nutrient intake, insulin resistance and cardiovascular risk factors in Asian Indians and South Asians have been reviewed. In these populations, several dietary imbalances have been reported: low intake of MUFA, n-3 PUFA and fibre, and high intake of fats, saturated fats, carbohydrates and trans-fatty acids (mostly related to the widespread use of Vanaspati, a hydrogenated oil). Some data suggest that these nutrient imbalances are associated with insulin resistance, dyslipidaemia and subclinical inflammation in South Asians. Specifically, in children and young individuals, a high intake of n-6 PUFA is correlated with fasting hyperinsulinaemia, and in adults, high-carbohydrate meal consumption was reported to cause hyperinsulinaemia, postprandial hyperglycaemia and hypertriacylglycerolaemia. Dietary supplementation with n-3 PUFA leads to an improved lipid profile but not insulin sensitivity. Inadequate maternal nutrition in pregnancy, low birth weight and childhood ‘catch-up’ obesity may be important for the development of the metabolic syndrome and diabetes. Even in rural populations, who usually consume traditional frugal diets, there is an increasing prevalence of cardiovascular risk factors and the metabolic syndrome due to changes in diets and lifestyle. Nationwide community intervention programmes aimed at creating awareness about the consequences of unhealthy food choices and replacing them by healthy food choices are urgently needed in urban and rural populations in India, other countries in South Asia and in migrant South Asians.
Hannah Arendt et l'exclusion radicale contemporaine
Authors: Ellyson Catherine
Published: October 2008

Résumé.Prenant le contre-pied des critiques de l'œuvre d'Hannah Arendt lui reprochant de dépeindre des acteurs uniformes et superficiels et de promouvoir une sphère politique caractérisée par la vacuité, le présent article présente la pensée d'Arendt dans les termes d'une discussion continuelle sur le thème de la puissance et de l'impuissance, de la participation et de l'exclusion. De ce point de vue et malgré le mépris apparent de cette auteure pour la misère, l'article soutient qu'une préoccupation à l'égard de l'exclusion radicale est non seulement possible dans une perspective arendtienne, mais qu'elle est mêmerequise.

Abstract.Contrasting with critics of Hannah Arendt who assume that the political actors she describes are uniform and superficial, and the political sphere she promotes, empty, this article presents Arendt's thinking as an ongoing discussion on power and powerlessness, on participation and exclusion. From this standpoint and in spite of the author's apparent despise for misery, this article contends that, from an arendtian perspective, a concern for contemporary radical exclusion is not only possible, butrequired.
Le monde de Pierre Bourdieu : Éléments pour une théorie sociale des Relations internationales
Authors: Mérand Frédéric , Pouliot Vincent
Published: October 2008

Résumé. Cet article jette un regard original sur les débats contemporains en Relations internationales (RI) à la lumière de la sociologie de Pierre Bourdieu. Sa riche théorie sociale permet d'établir des ponts entre les approches conventionnelles et celles qui sont issues de la mouvance critique en RI. Plus précisément, nous identifions six contributions que pourrait apporter une approche bourdieusienne. Sur le plan métathéorique, cette approche se caractériserait par une épistémologie réflexive, une ontologie relationnelle et une théorie de la pratique, trois axes qui s'inscrivent à la jonction des grands débats théoriques en RI. D'un point de vue plus centré sur l'application, la sociologie de Bourdieu permet l'étude de la politique mondiale en tant qu'imbrication complexe de champs sociaux, l'ouverture de l'État comme champ de pouvoir, de même qu'une meilleure prise en compte de la nature symbolique de la puissance.

Abstract. This article takes a fresh look at current debates in International Relations (IR) in the light of Pierre Bourdieu's sociology. We argue that Bourdieu's social theory could help build bridges between conventional and critical approaches in IR. More specifically, we identify six contributions that a Bourdieusian approach can make. At the meta-theoretical level, such an approach would be characterized by a reflexive epistemology, a relational ontology and a theory of practice – three dimensions that address key theoretical debates in IR. On a more applied level, Bourdieu's sociology enables us to study world politics as a complex of “embedded social fields”, to open up the state's field of power, and to factor in the symbolic nature of power.
Does Compulsory Voting Lead to More Informed and Engaged Citizens? An Experimental Test
Authors: Loewen Peter John , Milner Henry , Hicks Bruce M.
Published: October 2008

Abstract. Does compulsory voting lead to more knowledgeable and engaged citizens? We report the results from a recent experiment measuring such “second-order effects” in a compulsory voting environment. We conducted the experiment during the 2007 Quebec provincial election among 121 students at a Montreal CEGEP. To receive payment, all the students were required to complete two surveys; half were also required to vote. By comparing knowledge and engagement measures between the two groups, we can measure the second-order effects of compulsory voting. We find little or no such effects.

Résumé. Le vote obligatoire augmente-t-il le niveau d'information et l'engagement politique des citoyens? Nous présentons les résultats d'une expérience mesurant de tels « effets secondaires' » dans un environnement caractérisé par le vote obligatoire. Nous avons mené une expérience auprès de 121 étudiants d'un cégep montréalais lors de l'élection québécoise de 2007. Afin de recevoir une somme d'argent, les étudiants n'avaient qu'à compléter deux questionnaires; une moitié des participants devait en plus voter le jour de l'élection. En comparant le niveau d'information et l'engagement entre les deux groupes, nous pouvons mesurer les effets secondaires du vote obligatoire. Notre expérience révèle que le vote obligatoire a peu ou pas d'effet sur les connaissances et la participation.
Whodunnit? Voters and Responsibility in Canadian Federalism
Authors: Cutler Fred
Published: October 2008

Abstract.Government accountability in Canada depends on Canadian voters' attributing responsibility to multiple levels of government for policy outcomes. This study presents the first comprehensive account of these responsibility judgments. The data are from panel surveys of voters in Ontario and Saskatchewan as they faced provincial elections in the fall of 2003 and then the federal election of 2004. Voters were asked about conditions in a number of policy areas and then asked to separately attribute responsibility to the two senior levels of government. Voters do not strongly differentiate the governments' roles and there is little variation across issues. Attentiveness to politics only very slightly improves the quality of responsibility attributions, and only on issues where responsibility is objectively clearer. The results suggest that federalism is a major challenge for Canadian voters wishing to reward or punish their governments for policy outcomes.

Résumé.La responsabilisation gouvernementale au Canada dépend de la capacité du citoyen à différencier clairement les sphères d'activité des divers paliers de gouvernement. Cette étude offre, pour la première fois, un portrait exhaustif des mécanismes d'attribution de la responsabilité dans le système fédéral canadien. Les données sont tirées de deux enquêtes en panel réalisées durant les campagnes électorales provinciales de l'Ontario et de la Saskatchewan à l'automne 2003, puis durant la campagne fédérale de 2004. Deux aspects principaux de ces enquêtes ont été retenus pour cette étude. Tout d'abord, les répondants ont été interrogés sur leur perception de l'état des choses quant à une série d'enjeux de politique publique (économie, système de santé, et ainsi de suite). Ils ont ensuite dû attribuer la responsabilité de ces politiques aux deux paliers supérieurs de gouvernement au Canada. Il s'avère que les électeurs ne différencient que faiblement le rôle de chaque palier de gouvernement et ce, quel que soit l'enjeu. La capacité d'attribution de la responsabilité n'est que légèrement affectée par le niveau d'attention à la politique de l'électeur. Les résultats de l'analyse suggèrent que la nature fédérale du système politique canadien demeure un défi important à surmonter pour l'électeur qui désire récompenser ou punir ses gouvernements pour une politique publique donnée.
Youth Turnout: Adolescents' Attitudes in Ontario
Authors: Anderson Cameron D. , Goodyear-Grant Elizabeth
Published: October 2008

Abstract.The last two decades have witnessed dramatic downswings in voter turnout. Turnout decline among the youngest voters has been particularly pronounced, even discounting for normal life-cycle effects. Voting and abstention are habitual, so initial turnout decisions set the course for the life span. Consequently, greater attention to the immediate pre-adult years is necessary. This is the task we undertake using survey data on Ontario adolescents' attitudes toward voting.

Résumé.Les deux dernières décennies témoignent d'un déclin dramatique de la participation électorale. Chez les plus jeunes électeurs, cette tendance s'avère particulièrement prononcée, même en tenant compte des effets habituels du cycle de vie. Le fait de voter ou de s'en abstenir sont une question d'habitude, de sorte que la décision initiale de pparticiper ou non tend à déterminer le comportement pour la vie. Il importe donc d'accorder plus d'attention aux années précédant immédiatement l'âge adulte. C'est la tâche que nous entreprenons en nous appuyant sur les données de sondages portant sur l'attitude des adolescents de l'Ontario à l'égard du vote.
The Dog That Hasn't Barked: The Political Economy of Contemporary Debates on Canadian Foreign Investment Policies
Authors: Hale Geoffrey
Published: October 2008

Abstract.This article examines the responses of Canadian business leaders, national newspapers, and governments to record numbers of foreign takeovers of Canadian-based firms in 2004–2007. It assesses the political, economic, financial market, and regulatory contexts for takeover activity in historical, macro-economic, and micro-economic contexts in light of Canada's historically firm-centred business culture. It summarizes five dimensions of policy and media discourse on the interrelated issues of foreign investment and corporate consolidation, including debates on “hollowing out” and “national champions.” It concludes that the limited influence of nationalist and related business interests on recent Canadian government policies reflects Canada's growing economic interdependence with other countries, particularly the growing role played by Canadian-based multinationals in foreign markets.

Résumé.Le présent article examine la réaction des leaders du monde des affaires canadien, des journaux nationaux et des gouvernements devant le nombre record de prises de contrôle étrangères de sociétés exerçant leur activités au Canada entre 2004 et 2007. Il évalue l'activité de prise de contrôle selon les données de la politique, de l'économie, des marchés financiers et de la réglementation, dans des contextes historique, macroéconomique et microéconomique, compte tenu de la culture des affaires canadienne, traditionnellement axée sur l'entreprise. Il présente un sommaire des cinq dimensions des politiques et du discours des médias sur des questions liées : l'investissement étranger et la consolidation des sociétés, dont le débat sur l'«évidement» et les «champions nationaux». Il conclut que le peu d'influence des intérêts commerciaux nationalistes ou apparentés sur les politiques récentes du gouvernement du Canada reflète l'interdépendance croissante entre le Canada et d'autres pays et, notamment, le rôle croissant sur les marchés étrangers des multinationales établies au Canada.
Can Canadians Take a Hint? The (In)Effectiveness of Party Labels as Information Shortcuts in Canada
Authors: Merolla Jennifer L. , Stephenson Laura B. , Zechmeister Elizabeth J.
Published: October 2008

Abstract.This paper examines the usefulness of Canadian political party labels as information shortcuts. We supplement survey data analysis with the results of an experiment that tested whether knowing a party's position on an issue influenced opinion expression. We find that, contrary to findings in other countries, among our subject pool, Canadian political parties are not consistently useful as information cues. The Liberal party cue is hardly useful, and while the Conservative party cue can be effective, it appears to push partisans toward a more liberal stance on selected opinions. Only the NDP cue appears to influence opinions in the expected direction. These mixed findings run counter to foundational works on party labels as information shortcuts (mostly focused on US politics) and, instead, are consistent with previous scholarship on Canadian politics.

Résumé.Cet article examine l'utilité des étiquettes politiques des partis canadiens comme sources d'information sommaire. Nous analysons des données d'enquête ainsi que les résultats d'un sondage visant à déterminer si le fait de connaître la position d'un parti sur une question donnée influençait l'expression des opinions. Contrairement aux résultats obtenus dans d'autres pays, nous constatons chez les sujets observés que les étiquettes des partis politiques canadiens ne sont pas uniformément utiles comme sources d'information sommaire. L'étiquette du Parti libéral s'avère à peine utile, tandis que l'étiquette du Parti conservateur, peut-être plus efficace, semble inciter les partisans à une position plus libérale. Seule l'étiquette du NPD semble influencer les avis dans la direction prévue. Ces conclusions mixtes contredisent des travaux fondamentaux sur le même sujet (portant pour la plupart sur la politique aux États-Unis) et confirment plutôt les études antérieures sur la politique canadienne.
Governing Moods: Anxiety, Boredom, and the Ontological Overcoming of Politics in Heidegger
Authors: McKenzie Jonathan
Published: October 2008

Abstract.Much recent scholarship explores the consequences of Heidegger's transformation of philosophic thinking for our understanding of political theory at the edge of modernity. In a response to recent readings, this essay argues that the contemporary literature on Heidegger fails to account for two fundamental concerns: the ontic/ontological distinction and the importance of moods, particularly anxiety and boredom. Utilizing these moods, this essay explores the ways in which Heidegger's thought escapes politics through a privileging of the ontological, or object-less, experience, relying on a reclusive reflection as the way to authenticity. Instead of fostering a strong community or strong liberal sense of self, Heidegger leaves us with the nothingness of anxiety and the emptiness of boredom as our alternatives. By transcending the ontic in favor of the ontological, Heidegger divorces himself from politics in the everyday sense and posits an existential response to political theory that is unable to foster authentic collective life.

Résumé.Une part importante de la littérature récente explore les conséquences de la transformation de la pensée philosophique amenée par Heidegger et ses effets sur notre compréhension de la théorie politique à l'aube de l'ère moderne. En réponse à de récentes lectures, cet essai relève deux manquements fondamentaux dans la littérature contemporaine sur Heidegger. Le premier concerne la distinction entre l'ontique et l'ontologique et le deuxième a trait à l'importance des humeurs, plus particulièrement l'anxiété et l'ennui. En explorant ces humeurs, cet essai dévoile les manières dont la pensée de Heidegger échappe à la politique en privilégiant l'expérience ontologique ou immatérielle et en se fondant sur la réflexion recluse, voie qui mène à l'authenticité. Au lieu de favoriser une communauté forte ou un sens profond et libéral de soi, Heidegger nous laisse comme options de rechange le néant de l'anxiété et le vide de l'ennui. En transcendant l'ontique en faveur de l'ontologique, Heidegger se sépare de la politique au sens premier du terme pour donner une réponse existentielle à une théorie politique incapable de forger une vie collective authentique.
Keeping Nuns in Order: Enforcement of the Rules in Thirteenth-Century Sempringham
Authors: GOLDING BRIAN
Published: October 2008

The statutes of the Gilbertine order, established by Gilbert of Sempringham in the second half of the twelfth century, underwent modification during the following century as a consequence of two legatine visitations, in 1238 and 1267. This paper examines these new regulations in the context of growing episcopal concern for the internal discipline of nunneries and considers the possible inter-relationships between the ‘self-regulating’ and internally-disciplined Gilbertine order and the synodal legislation of reforming bishops and their episcopal visitation of non-Gilbertine nunneries, particularly in Yorkshire. It suggests that the visitation by Ottobuono Fieschi of the Gilbertines in 1267 and his legatine council of London in 1268 informed the outcomes of both, leading to a convergence of Gilbertine legislation with the wider legislation that applied to all nunneries.
Mumbādevī and the Other Mother Goddesses in Mumbai
Authors: VICZIANY MARIKA , BAPAT JAYANT
Published: October 2008

Mumbādevī is the patron Goddess of the city of Mumbai, one of the largest and most cosmopolitan cities of Asia. Local traditions say that Mumbādevī was a Koḷī Goddess and worshipped by the indigenous Koḷī fisher community for centuries. However, since the turn of the twentieth century the temple of Mumbādevī and the rituals surrounding the Goddess have gradually been Sanskritised. Today, Mumbādevī is more closely associated with the Gujarati community. This paper examines this transformation and in doing so reflects on the survival of Mumbādevī, the ongoing popularity of Goddess worship in Mumbai and the failure of Hindu fundamentalists to subordinate the Mother Goddesses of Mumbai to a more limited range of Hindu Gods.
Central State, Local Governments, Ethnic Groups and the Minzu Identification in Yunnan (1950s–1980s)
Authors: YANG BIN
Published: October 2008

This essay examines the minzu identification in Yunnan (1950s–1980s). First of all, it will introduce the terms of ethnicity and minzu as used by the Chinese. It will then examine the minzu identification in Yunnan with a general overview, followed by a critique on the complexity of classification, which looks especially at the many previously ignored roles including local governments, ethnic groups, ethnic elites, ethnic masses and contingency in the process. The essay argues that classifications varied case by case, without any consistent or standard criteria. Furthermore, it also discusses the application of Soviet influence on the project, particularly the definition of four-common raised by Stalin. While arguing that there was little Soviet influence on the result of classification, the essay intends to historicize the project to illustrate the historical continuity and development in terms of ethnic and frontier managements between imperial and modern China.
Quality Control: Resource Access and Local Village Elections in Rural China
Authors: STURGEON JANET C.
Published: October 2008

First authorised in 1987, local village elections in China have been much studied by China scholars to assess the emergence of democracy in the People's Republic. Elected village committees were to manage ‘local affairs’, including village lands, as a step towards local self-governance. In place of democracy, this article highlights access and control over natural resources in relation to a local village election first held in Mengsong village, Yunnan, in 2000. A comparison of resource access in 1997 and 2002 shows that over this period, Mengsong villagers lost access to forests, agricultural lands, pastures and mineral resources—‘local affairs’ that an elected committee might have managed. National and local events from 1998 to 2002 signalled a recalibration of people of high and low ‘quality’ (suzhi) in China, with Mengsong shifting cultivators emerging as ‘low quality’ people who threatened China's environment and economic development. These changes in status signified a dramatic shift in who was qualified to manage resources, run local affairs and contribute to China as it entered the World Trade Organisation (WTO) in 2001. The discourse of ‘quality’ resulted in Akha farmers being blamed, and blaming themselves, for their own poverty and resource loss, deflecting attention from the political economic processes that caused their dispossession. Far from the emergence of democracy, the local village election in Mengsong entailed increased state control over people and resources, as China geared up for environmental protection and engagement with the global economy.
Sri Lanka in the Long Early Modern Period: Its Place in a Comparative Theory of Second Millennium Eurasian History
Authors: STRATHERN ALAN
Published: October 2008

This paper explores how Sri Lanka might fit into Victor Lieberman's theory of Eurasian history. Lieberman's work to date has focused on the ‘protected rimlands’ which he sees as sharing the same historical path from a milieu of warring little kingdoms to increasingly large, solid states. But what happens in a land, such as Sri Lanka, which can be considered ‘protected’ before 1500, and ‘unprotected’ thereafter? Political integration and boundaries are first discussed, followed by ethnic and historical awareness before 1500. The third section sketches the chronological development of Buddhism before 1500, while the fourth considers the impact of the European interruption, and the fifth briefly looks at the results for 1600–1800. Along the way, some problems with applying the notion of ‘early modernity’ to Sri Lanka are disclosed.
Nationalism and Modernity: The Politics of Cultural Conservatism in Republican China
Authors: FUNG EDMUND S. K.
Published: October 2008

This article explores the political dynamics of modern Chinese cultural conservatism. It proceeds from the premise that modern Chinese conservatism, as distinct from traditionalism, was a response to modernity and, as such, a part of modernity. The article identifies the conservative with the nationalist, but not vice versa, and understands politico-cultural conservatism as politico-cultural nationalism. It will first trace the rise of modern Chinese conservative thought, revisit the ideas of two noted cultural conservatives Liang Shuming and Zhang Junmai, examine the politics of China-based cultural reconstruction, and then explore the conservative thought of the war period (1937–1945) to illustrate the interplay of war, culture and nationalism. It argues, basically, that although the conservatives did not defend the prevailing socio-political order as a whole, their understanding of politics from a cultural perspective was nuanced and that they stood in an ambiguous relationship with the existing regime and the party-state.