bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Role for Homologous Recombination and Abnormal Cell-Cycle Progression in Radioresistance of Glioma-Initiating Cells
Authors: Lim Yi Chieh , Roberts Tara L. , Day Bryan W. , Harding Angus , Kozlov Sergei , Kijas Amanda W. , Ensbey Kathleen S. , Walker David G. , Lavin Martin F.
Published: July 2012

Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is the most common form of brain tumor with a poor prognosis and resistance to radiotherapy. Recent evidence suggests that glioma-initiating cells play a central role in radioresistance through DNA damage checkpoint activation and enhanced DNA repair. To investigate this in more detail, we compared the DNA damage response in nontumor forming neural progenitor cells (NPC) and glioma-initiating cells isolated from GBM patient specimens. As observed for GBM tumors, initial characterization showed that glioma-initiating cells have long-term self-renewal capacity. They express markers identical to NPCs and have the ability to form tumors in an animal model. In addition, these cells are radioresistant to varying degrees, which could not be explained by enhanced nonhomologous end joining (NHEJ). Indeed, NHEJ in glioma-initiating cells was equivalent, or in some cases reduced, as compared with NPCs. However, there was evidence for more efficient homologous recombination repair in glioma-initiating cells. We did not observe a prolonged cell cycle nor enhanced basal activation of checkpoint proteins as reported previously. Rather, cell-cycle defects in the G1–S and S-phase checkpoints were observed by determining entry into S-phase and radioresistant DNA synthesis following irradiation. These data suggest that homologous recombination and cell-cycle checkpoint abnormalities may contribute to the radioresistance of glioma-initiating cells and that both processes may be suitable targets for therapy. Mol Cancer Ther; 11(9); 1863–72. ©2012 AACR.
Regulation of Lymphocyte Function by Adenosine
Authors: Linden Joel , Cekic Caglar
Published: July 2012

Adenosine regulates the interaction between lymphocytes and the vasculature, and is important for controlling lymphocyte trafficking in response to tissue injury or infection. Adenosine can blunt the effects of T cell receptor activation primarily by activating adenosine A
2A
receptors and signaling via cyclic AMP and protein kinase A. Protein kinase A reduces proximal T cell receptor signaling by phosphorylation of C-terminal Src kinase, nuclear factor of activated T cells and cyclic AMP response element-binding protein. Protein kinase A activation can either enhance or inhibit the survival of T cells depending on the strength and duration of signaling. Inducible enzymes such as CD73 and CD39 regulate adenosine formation and degradation in vivo. The extravasation of lymphocytes through blood vessels is influenced by A
2A
receptors-mediated suppression of intercellular adhesion molecule 1 expression on lymphocytes and diminished production of interferon γ and interferon γ-inducible chemokines that are chemotactic to activated lymphocytes. Adenosine also decreases the barrier function of vascular endothelium by activating A
2B
Rs. In sum, adenosine signaling is influenced by tissue inflammation and injury through induction of receptors and enzymes and has generally inhibitory effects on lymphocyte migration into inflamed tissues due to protein kinase A-mediated effects on adhesion molecules, interferon γ production, and endothelial barrier function.
Human ATP–Binding Cassette G1 Controls Macrophage Lipoprotein Lipase Bioavailability and Promotes Foam Cell Formation
Authors: Olivier Maryline , Tanck Michael W. , Out Ruud , Villard Elise F. , Lammers Bart , Bouchareychas Laura , Frisdal Eric , Superville Alexandre , Van Berkel Theo , Kastelein John J. , Eck Miranda Van , Jukema J. Wouter , Chapman M. John , Dallinga-Thie Geesje M. , Guerin Maryse , Goff Wilfried Le
Published: July 2012

Objective—

The physiological function of the ATP–binding cassette G1 (ABCG1) transporter in humans is not yet elucidated, as no genetic disease caused by
ABCG1
mutations has been documented. The goal of our study was, therefore, to investigate the potential role(s) of ABCG1 in lipid metabolism in humans.

Methods and Results—

Here we report that among the 104 polymorphisms present in the
ABCG1
gene, the analysis of the frequent functional rs1893590 and rs1378577 single nucleotide polymorphisms located in the regulatory region of
ABCG1
in the Regression Growth Evaluation Statin Study population revealed that both
ABCG1
single nucleotide polymorphisms were significantly associated with plasma lipoprotein lipase (LPL) activity. Moreover, we observed that plasma LPL activity was modestly reduced in
Abcg1
−/−
mice as compared with control mice. Adipose tissue and skeletal muscle are the major tissues accounting for levels and activity of plasma LPL in the body. However, beyond its lipolytic action in the plasma compartment, LPL was also described to act locally at the cellular level. Thus, macrophage LPL was reported to promote foam cell formation and atherosclerosis in vivo. Analysis of the relationship between ABCG1 and LPL in macrophages revealed that the knockdown of ABCG1 expression (ABCG1 knockdown) in primary cultures of human monocyte–derived macrophages using small interfering RNAs led to a marked reduction of both the secretion and activity of LPL. Indeed, LPL was trapped at the cell surface of ABCG1 knockdown human monocyte–derived macrophages, likely in cholesterol-rich domains, thereby reducing the bioavailability and activity of LPL. As a consequence, LPL–mediated lipid accumulation in human macrophage foam cells in the presence of triglyceride-rich lipoproteins was abolished when ABCG1 expression was repressed.

Conclusion—

We presently report that ABCG1 controls LPL activity and promotes lipid accumulation in human macrophages in the presence of triglyceride-rich lipoproteins, thereby suggesting a potential deleterious role of macrophage ABCG1 in metabolic situations associated with high levels of circulating triglyceride-rich lipoproteins together with the presence of macrophages in the arterial wall.
Bmper Inhibits Endothelial Expression of Inflammatory Adhesion Molecules and Protects Against Atherosclerosis
Authors: Pi Xinchun , Lockyer Pamela , Dyer Laura A. , Schisler Jonathan C. , Russell Brooke , Carey Stephen , Sweet Daniel Timothy , Chen Zhongming , Tzima Ellie , Willis Monte S. , Homeister Jonathon W. , Moser Martin , Patterson Cam
Published: July 2012

Objective—

Bone morphogenetic proteins (Bmps) are important mediators of inflammation and atherosclerosis, though their mechanism of action is not fully understood. To better understand the contribution of the Bmp signaling pathway in vascular inflammation, we investigated the role of Bmper (Bmp endothelial cell precursor–derived regulator), an extracellular Bmp modulator, in an induced in vivo model of inflammation and atherosclerosis.

Methods and Results—

We crossed apolipoprotein E–deficient (ApoE
−/−
) mice with mice missing 1 allele of Bmper (Bmper
+/−
mice used in the place of Bmper
−/−
mice that die at birth) and measured the development of atherosclerosis in mice fed a high-fat diet. Bmper haploinsufficiency in ApoE
−/−
mice (Bmper
+/−
;ApoE
−/−
mice) led to a more severe phenotype compared with Bmper
+/+
;ApoE
−/−
mice. Bmper
+/−
;ApoE
−/−
mice also exhibited increased Bmp activity in the endothelial cells in both the greater and lesser curvatures of the aortic arch, suggesting a role for Bmper in regulating Bmp-mediated inflammation associated with laminar and oscillatory shear stress. Small interfering RNA knockdown of Bmper in human umbilical vein endothelial cells caused a dramatic increase in the inflammatory markers intracellular adhesion molecule 1 and vascular cell adhesion molecule 1 at rest and after exposure to oscillatory and laminar shear stress.

Conclusion—

We conclude that Bmper is a critical regulator of Bmp-mediated vascular inflammation and that the fine-tuning of Bmp and Bmper levels is essential in the maintenance of normal vascular homeostasis.
Enhancement of 26S Proteasome Functionality Connects Oxidative Stress and Vascular Endothelial Inflammatory Response in Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Liu Hongtao , Yu Shujie , Xu Wenjia , Xu Jian
Published: July 2012

Objective—

Although the connection of oxidative stress and inflammation has been long recognized in diabetes mellitus, the underlying mechanisms are not fully elucidated. This study defined the role of 26S proteasomes in promoting vascular inflammatory response in early diabetes mellitus.

Methods and Results—

The 26S proteasome functionality, markers of autophagy, and unfolded protein response were assessed in (1) cultured 26S proteasome reporter cells and endothelial cells challenged with high glucose, (2) transgenic reporter (Ub
G76V
–green fluorescence protein) and wild-type (C57BL/6J) mice rendered diabetic, and (3) genetically diabetic (Akita and OVE26) mice. In glucose-challenged cells, and also in aortic, renal, and retinal tissues from diabetic mice, enhanced 26S proteasome functionality was observed, evidenced by augmentation of proteasome (chymotrypsin-like) activities and reduction in 26S proteasome reporter proteins, accompanied by increased nitrotyrosine-containing proteins. Also, whereas inhibitor of the nuclear factor κ-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells α proteins were decreased, an increase was found in nuclear factor κ-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB) nucleus translocation, which enhanced the NF-κB–mediated proinflammatory response, without affecting markers of autophagy or unfolded protein response. Importantly, the alterations were abolished by MG132 administration, small interfering RNA knockdown of PA700 (proteasome activator protein complex), or superoxide scavenging in vivo.

Conclusion—

Early hyperglycemia enhances 26S proteasome functionality, not autophagy or unfolded protein response, through peroxynitrite/superoxide-mediated PA700-dependent proteasomal activation, which elevates NF- ĸB-mediated endothelial inflammatory response in early diabetes mellitus.
Vascular Smooth Muscle Cell
Smad4
Gene Is Important for Mouse Vascular Development
Authors: Mao Xia , DeBenedittis Paige , Sun Yong , Chen Jianfeng , Yuan Kaiyu , Jiao Kai , Chen Yabing
Published: July 2012

Objective—

Smad4
is a central mediator of transforming growth factor-β/bone morphogenetic protein signaling that controls numerous developmental processes as well as homeostasis in the adult. The present studies sought to understand the function of
Smad4
expressed in vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMC) in vascular development and the underlying mechanisms.

Methods and Results—

Breeding of
Smad4

flox/flox

mice with
SM22α-Cre
mice resulted in no viable offspring with
SM22α-Cre
;
Smad4

flox/flox

genotype in a total of 165 newborns. Subsequent characterization of 301 embryos between embryonic day (E) 9.5 and E14.5 demonstrated that mice with
SM22α-Cre
;
Smad4

flox/flox

genotype died between E12.5 and E14.5 because of decreased cell proliferation and increased apoptosis in the embryonic heart and arteries. Additionally, deletion of
Smad4
more specifically in SMC with the inducible smooth muscle myosin heavy chain
(SMMHC)-Cre
mice, in which decreased cell proliferation was observed only in the artery but not the heart, also caused lethality of the knockout embryos at E12.5 and E14.5. The
Smad4
-deficient VSMC lacked smooth muscle α-actin filaments, decreased expression of SMC-specific gene markers, and markedly reduced cell proliferation, migration, and attachment. Using specific pharmacological inhibitors and small interfering RNAs, we demonstrated that inhibition of transforming growth factor-β signaling and its regulatory Smad 2/3 decreased VSMC proliferation, migration, and expression of SMC-specific gene markers, whereas inhibition of bone morphogenetic protein signaling only affected VSMC migration.

Conclusion—

SMC-specific deletion of
Smad4
results in vascular defects that lead to embryonic lethality in mice, which may be attributed to decreased VSMC differentiation, proliferation, migration, as well as cell attachment and spreading. The transforming growth factor-β signaling pathway contributes to VSMC differentiation and function, whereas the bone morphogenetic protein signaling pathway regulates VSMC migration. These studies provide important insight into the role of
Smad4
and its upstream Smads in regulating SMC function and vascular development of mice.
Smooth Muscle Cell–Specific Runx2 Deficiency Inhibits Vascular Calcification
Authors: Sun Yong , Byon Chang Hyun , Yuan Kaiyu , Chen Jianfeng , Mao Xia , Heath Jack M. , Javed Amjad , Zhang Kui , Anderson Peter G. , Chen Yabing
Published: July 2012

Rationale:

Vascular calcification is a hallmark of atherosclerosis, a major cause of morbidity and mortality in the United States. We have previously reported that the osteogenic transcription factor Runx2 is an essential and sufficient regulator of calcification of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMC) in vitro.

Objective:

To determine the contribution of osteogenic differentiation of VSMC to the pathogenesis of vascular calcification and the function of VSMC-derived Runx2 in regulating calcification in vivo.

Methods and Results:

SMC-specific Runx2-deficient mice, generated by breeding SM22α-Cre mice with the Runx2 exon 8 floxed mice, exhibited normal aortic gross anatomy and expression levels of SMC-specific marker genes. Runx2 deficiency did not affect basal SMC markers, but inhibited oxidative stress-reduced expression of SMC markers. High-fat-diet-induced vascular calcification in vivo was markedly inhibited in the Runx2-deficient mice in comparison with their control littermates. Runx2 deficiency inhibited the expression of receptor activator of nuclear factor κB ligand, which was accompanied by decreased macrophage infiltration and formation of osteoclast-like cells in the calcified lesions. Coculture of VSMC with bone marrow–derived macrophages demonstrated that the Runx2-deficient VSMC failed to promote differentiation of macrophages into osteoclast-like cells.

Conclusions:

These data have determined the importance of osteogenic differentiation of VSMC in the pathogenesis of vascular calcification in mice and defined the functional role of SMC-derived Runx2 in regulating vascular calcification and promoting infiltration of macrophages into the calcified lesion to form osteoclast-like cells. Our studies suggest that the development of vascular calcification is coupled with the formation of osteoclast-like cells, paralleling the bone remodeling process.
Hyperbilirubinemia, Augmentation of Endothelial Function, and Decrease in Oxidative Stress in Gilbert Syndrome
Authors: Maruhashi Tatsuya , Soga Junko , Fujimura Noritaka , Idei Naomi , Mikami Shinsuke , Iwamoto Yumiko , Kajikawa Masato , Matsumoto Takeshi , Kihara Yasuki , Chayama Kazuaki , Noma Kensuke , Nakashima Ayumu , Tomiyama Hirofumi , Takase Bonpei , Yamashina Akira , Higashi Yukihito
Published: July 2012

Background—

Patients with Gilbert syndrome have mild unconjugated hyperbilirubinemia. It has been shown that bilirubin is an endogenous antioxidant. We evaluated the role of oxidative stress in endothelial function in patients with Gilbert syndrome under normal conditions without cardiovascular risk factors.

Methods and Results—

A total of 108 young men with Gilbert syndrome without cardiovascular risk factors and 108 age-matched healthy men (normal controls) were enrolled in this study. Serum concentrations of bilirubin were higher in patients with Gilbert syndrome than in control subjects (29.2±11.6 versus 9.4±2.7 μmol/L;
P
<0.001). Serum concentrations of malondialdehyde-modified low-density lipoprotein and urinary excretion of 8-hydroxy-2′-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG), as indices of oxidative stress, were lower in patients with Gilbert syndrome than in control subjects (61.8±24.5 versus 72.5±21.8 U/L,
P
=0.034; 7.8±2.4 versus 10.4±3.2 ng/mg creatinine,
P
=0.001, respectively). Flow-mediated vasodilation was greater in patients with Gilbert syndrome than in normal control subjects (7.2±2.2% versus 5.9±1.7%;
P
<0.001). Vascular responses to nitroglycerine were not significantly different between the 2 groups. Flow-mediated vasodilation correlated with serum concentration of bilirubin (
r
=0.44,
P
<0.001), malondialdehyde-modified low-density lipoprotein (
r
=−0.25,
P
=0.01), and urinary excretion of 8-OHdG (
r
=−0.27,
P
=0.004) in patients with Gilbert syndrome but not in control subjects. In addition, serum concentration of bilirubin correlated with malondialdehyde-modified low-density lipoprotein (
r
=−0.20,
P
=0.04) and 8-OHdG (
r
=−0.21,
P
=0.02) in patients with Gilbert syndrome but not in control subjects.

Conclusions—

Patients with Gilbert syndrome had low levels of oxidative stress associated with hyperbilirubinemia and enhancement of endothelium-dependent vasodilation.

Clinical Trial Registration—

URL:
http://www.umin.ac.jp
. Unique identifier: UMIN000003409.
Stratification of Heterogeneous Diffusion MRI Ischemic Lesion With Kurtosis Imaging
Authors: Cheung Jerry S. , Wang Enfeng , Lo Eng H , Sun Phillip Zhe
Published: July 2012

Background and Purpose—

Ischemic tissue damage is heterogeneous, resulting in complex patterns in the widely used diffusion-weighted MRI. Our study examined the spatiotemporal characteristics of diffusion kurtosis imaging in an animal model of transient middle cerebral artery occlusion.

Methods—

Adult male Wistar rats (N=18) were subjected to 90 minutes middle cerebral artery occlusion. Multiparametric MR images were obtained during middle cerebral artery occlusion and 20 minutes after reperfusion with diffusion-weighted MRI obtained using 8 b-values from 250 to 3000 s/mm
2
in 6 diffusion gradient directions. Diffusion and kurtosis lesions were outlined in shuffled images by 2 investigators independently. T
2
MRI was obtained 24 hours after middle cerebral artery occlusion to evaluate stroke outcome.

Results—

Mean diffusion lesion (23.5%±8.1%, percentage of the brain slice) was significantly larger than mean kurtosis lesion (13.2%±2.0%) during middle cerebral artery occlusion. Mean diffusion lesion decreased significantly after reperfusion (13.8%±4.3%), whereas mean kurtosis lesion showed little change (13.0%±2.5%) with their lesion size difference being insignificant.

Conclusions—

We demonstrated that mean diffusion/mean kurtosis mismatch recovered reasonably well on reperfusion, whereas regions with concurrent mean diffusion and mean kurtosis deficits showed poor recovery. Diffusion kurtosis imaging may help stratify heterogeneous diffusion-weighted MRI lesions for enhanced characterization of ischemic tissue injury.
Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor Val66Met Polymorphism Predicts Worse Functional Outcome After Surgery in Patients With Unruptured Brain Arteriovenous Malformation
Authors: Westbroek Erick M. , Pawlikowska Ludmila , Lawton Michael T. , McCulloch Charles E. , Young William L. , Kim Helen
Published: July 2012

Background and Purpose—

The Val66Met polymorphism of brain-derived neurotrophic factor is associated with decreased brain-derived neurotrophic factor secretion and poor outcome after acute neurological injury. We hypothesized that the Met allele is associated with worsening of functional outcome after brain arteriovenous malformation resection.

Methods—

Three hundred forty-one surgically treated patients with brain arteriovenous malformation with outcome data were genotyped for Val66Met. Outcome was change in modified Rankin Scale preoperatively versus postoperatively, dichotomized into poor (change >0) or good outcome (change ≤0). Likelihood ratio tests for interactions and logistic regression analysis were performed.

Results—

A significant interaction (
P
=0.03) of Val66Met genotype and hemorrhagic presentation existed; thus, ruptured and unruptured patients were considered separately. The Met allele was associated with increased risk of poor outcome among patients presenting unruptured (OR, 2.15; 95% CI, 1.02–4.55;
P
=0.045) but not ruptured (OR, 0.54; 95% CI, 0.19–1.53;
P
=0.25), adjusting for covariates.

Conclusions—

The Val66Met polymorphism is associated with worsened surgical outcome in patients with unruptured brain arteriovenous malformation, a group that currently has no good risk predictors. Further studies replicating these findings are needed.
Frequency and Predictors of Renal Artery Stenosis in Hypertensive Patients Undergoing Coronary Angiography
Authors: Yorgun Hikmet , Kabakçı Giray , Canpolat Uğur , Aytemir Kudret , Fatihoğlu Görkem , Karakulak Uğur Nadir , Kaya Ergün Barış , Şahiner Levent , Tokgözoğlu Lale , Oto Ali
Published: July 2012

Renal artery stenosis (RAS) and coronary artery disease share common risk factors. We investigated the frequency and predictors of RAS among hypertensive patients who underwent elective coronary angiography. A total of 832 hypertensive patients underwent coronary and renal angiography at the same session. Renal artery stenosis was classified as mild, moderate, or severe. The study population consisted of 4 groups; 71.1% with normal renal arteries, 12.5% with mild, 8.9% with moderate, and 7.5% with severe RAS. The prevalence of significant (≥50%) RAS was 16.3%. The Gensini score showed a stepwise rise with increasing severity of RAS. Age, duration of hypertension, estimated glomerular filtration rate, Gensini score, and multivessel disease were independent predictors for the presence of RAS. Hypertensive patients with those risk factors might need detailed investigation for RAS which may affect their prognosis.
Porphyromonas gingivalis as a Potential Community Activist for Disease
Authors: Darveau R.P. , Hajishengallis G. , Curtis M.A.
Published: July 2012

An extensive analysis of dental plaque samples over the years has led to the identification of “red” complex oral bacteria that have a strong association with each other and with disease. Consequently, these bacteria have been labeled ‘periopathogens’. Studies with one of these bacteria, Porphyromonas gingivalis, have revealed that it contains several different mechanisms which either impede or modulate periodontal protective mechanisms. In a mouse model of periodontitis, it has been shown that modulation of complement function by P. gingivalis facilitates a significant change in both the amount and composition of the normal oral microbiotia. This altered oral commensal microbiota is responsible for pathologic bone loss in the mouse. Thus, P. gingivalis creates a dysbiosis between the host and dental plaque, and this may represent one mechanism by which periodontitis can be initiated. We have therefore termed P. gingivalis a keystone pathogen.
A Bad Time for Disaster
Authors: Skertich Robert L. , Johnson David E. A. , Comfort Louise K.
Published: July 2012

Local governments face a tightening economic bind while struggling to balance obligations to protect their communities. As populations change and hazards expand, they confront a mounting number of threats while trying to maintain basic services. This article examines demands and constraints that are placed on government agencies in providing public safety and public health services. The authors recommend building interagency cooperation to maximize the utility of existing staff and resources. These distributed systems increase the flexibility and resilience of the community as well as the cooperating organizations. It is a paradigm shift from organization-centric thinking toward a coordinated effort to build resilience for the whole community.
Data Selection for Making Biodiversity Management Decisions
Authors: Gerlach John David , Williams Laron K. , Forcina Colleen E.
Published: July 2012

Best available science has long been the standard for using science to inform environmental and natural resource policy. This study examines the selection of data from federal, state or local, and nongovernmental sources for use in making ground-level natural resource policy, or biodiversity management decisions. The authors argue that aspects of neo-institutional theory are explanatory of data selection within a natural resource agency. They empirically test their theory by analyzing original data collected from a 2007 survey of U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service field offices, which attained a response rate of 36.6% (204 of 557 field offices). The authors find that data selection cannot merely be explained by the discussion of best available science. Rather, neo-institutional theory tenets of normative isomorphism and path dependency are explanatory of how science is selected for use in making biodiversity management decisions. However, coercive isomorphism does not possess the same explanatory ability with regard to U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service field office data selection.
America’s Homo Sacer
Authors: Pope Paul James , Garrett Terence M.
Published: July 2012

Border politics became a high priority for the U.S. government following the terrorist attacks of 9/11, and illegal immigration became the “problem” of the southern border dominating the news. The perceived loss of Americans’ safety, jobs, and health care was pinned to the “problem” of illegal immigration. The new border/security policies, with the onset of the War on Terror, further criminalized immigration law and heightened enforcement of illegal immigration. The authors examine the administration of “illegal” immigration policies to test Agamben’s State of Exception and Homo Sacer theories—used here to describe and explain U.S. immigration and deportation policy.
Repetition and the Compulsion to Repeat
Authors: Diamond Michael A.
Published: July 2012

While individuals productively use repetition to learn and develop new skills and competencies, they also engage in compulsive and counterproductive repetitions. This article makes a contribution to the literature on organizational learning and change by offering an exploration of the human proclivity for repetition and psychosocial phenomenon of the compulsion to repeat. The article links psychoanalytic theory with organization learning and change, to address the question: How is the tendency for repetition, constructive and destructive, addressed in organizational change processes? A case example is presented and discussed throughout this exploration of organizational change and the compulsion to repeat.
Discrimination and the Transgender Population
Authors: Sellers Mitchell Dylan
Published: July 2012

Transgender-inclusive nondiscrimination policies create a quagmire for human resources to successfully implement. There is a dearth of knowledge about the extent, features, and aptitude of policies to prevent discrimination against transgender employees. This study analyzes all 154 localities that prohibit discrimination against gender identity or expression in employment, as of July 2011, to explore their scope, the capability of implementation agencies, and safeguards provided to employees. The results indicate that the extent of the nondiscrimination policies is broad and potentially benefit most citizens; however, insufficient power is delegated to implementing agencies and safeguards are not the norm.
Between Cosmopolitanism and Nationalism
Authors: Moore James
Published: July 2012

The history of interwar Alexandria illustrates the difficulties associated with maintaining liberal stability in colonial cosmopolitan societies. While Europeans and those of European descent became closely integrated into the economy and social life of the city, political integration was much more problematic. Despite a tolerant political environment with little local community tension, the separate national customs and institutions that gave the city its unique flavor and character were vulnerable to extremist political exploitation, particularly at a time of international tension and economic contraction. Liberal Alexandria was therefore already dying before the nationalist and socialist policies of the Nasser regime.
A multidimensional examination of the acculturation and psychological functioning of a sample of immigrant Chinese mothers in the US
Authors: Tahseen Madiha , Cheah Charissa S. L.
Published: July 2012

The present research used the cluster analysis method to examine the acculturation of immigrant Chinese mothers (ICMs), and the demographic characteristics and psychological functioning associated with each acculturation style. The sample was comprised of 83 first-generation ICMs of preschool children residing in Maryland, Unites States (US). Cluster analysis revealed four acculturation styles: psychologically-behaviorally integrated; psychologically-behaviorally assimilated; psychologically-behaviorally undifferentiated; and psychologically-behaviorally separated. Assimilated mothers were the youngest at immigration and had resided in the US for the longest time. Separated mothers were older at immigration, resided in the US for a shorter time, were less educated, and had lower psychological functioning than mothers in the other clusters. However, there were no differences in demographic characteristics and psychological functioning between psychologically-behaviorally integrated and psychologically-behaviorally undifferentiated clusters. The importance of simultaneously assessing various cultural orientations and components of acculturation was highlighted.
Ideal Types of Leadership as Patterns of Affective Meaning
Authors: Schneider Andreas , Schröder Tobias
Published: July 2012

We propose that macro-level ideal types of leadership, as described in the classic work of Max Weber and reflected in the contemporary management literature, are mirrored in micro-level affective meanings. Within Osgood’s three-dimensional affective space, we identify specific patterns corresponding to leadership styles: people evaluate authoritative/transactional leadership as positive, powerful, and neither passive nor active. Charismatic/transformational leadership is perceived as equally positive and powerful but involves a much higher degree of activity-arousal. Finally, coercive leadership is negative, powerful, and active. Based on Heise’s cybernetic symbolic-interactionist affect control theory, we compare cultural representations of business managers in the United States and Germany at different points in time. We demonstrate a shift from transactional to charismatic leadership in the U.S. manager stereotype and a contrasting consolidation of coercive leadership expectations in Germany. We discuss implications for (1) cross-cultural communication and (2) affective meaning as indicator of social change.
Theory-Pluralism in Public Administration
Authors: Whetsell Travis A.
Published: July 2012

Neopragmatists in public administration (PA) consistently argue that neopragmatism upgrades regular pragmatism. This claim rests on the contention that pragmatism is host to epistemic foundationalism, which undercuts legitimacy in PA. This article provides a new refutation of the upgrade claim, dissolving the hard-link constructed between epistemology and legitimacy by articulating theory-pluralism in research methods. Haack’s “Analytic Framework” is advanced as a useful conceptualization of epistemic debates in PA, and Laudan’s philosophy of science is advanced to provide a productive conceptualization of PA’s theory competition. Theory-pluralism is then applied to a variety of research areas in PA, demonstrating the need for an approach that harmonizes PA’s competing research traditions under the broader goal of problem resolution in PA.
Developing a Method to Assessing the Municipal Financial Health
Authors: Cabaleiro Roberto , Buch Enrique , Vaamonde Antonio
Published: July 2012

Following the conceptual framework developed by the Canadian Institute of Chartered Accountants, which is based on three broad dimensions of sustainability, flexibility and vulnerability, this paper proposes a method for evaluating the financial health of municipalities. This methodology could be useful for performance assessment in any country and framework. An aggregate indicator has been obtained for each municipality that covers all the aspects analyzed. For this, multivariate statistical techniques of principal component analysis and discriminant analysis are combined. The proposed method overcomes the problem that we detected in the literature related to the weighting of variables, optimizing the measurement of the variability of all indicators that are included in the financial condition. The indicator evaluates and ranks the degree of financial health of each municipality and serves as a tool to study how different factors might have an impact on its financial health. The performance of the indicator has been contrasted with the socioeconomic variables of population size and geographic location. The proposed method has been applied to 5,165 Spanish municipalities.
Global Ideas and Modern Public Sector Reforms
Authors: Christensen Tom
Published: July 2012

The neoinstitutional theory of global ideas formulated by organization theory experts at Stanford University and also espoused by some Scandinavian researchers postulates a formalized, rationalized, and standardized organizational template created through cultural and macrosocial processes that spreads around the world. This template is said to fit everywhere, regardless of national and local preconditions, creating isomorphy between public organizations, but not having much real influence on practice. This article elaborates the theory, discussing it in relation to two alternative theories—an instrumental and an old institutional one, and looks at whether it matches the findings of comparative studies of two reform waves—New Public Management (NPM) and post-NPM.
Predicting the Quality of Composition and Written Language Bursts From Oral Language, Spelling, and Handwriting Skills in Children With and Without Specific Language Impairment
Authors: Connelly Vincent , Dockrell Julie E. , Walter Kirsty , Critten Sarah
Published: July 2012

Writers typically produce their writing in bursts. In this article, the authors examine written language bursts in a sample of 33 children aged 11 years with specific language impairment. Comparisons of the children with specific language impairment with an age-matched group of typically developing children ( n = 33) and a group of younger, language skill–matched children ( n = 33) revealed the role of writing bursts as a key factor in differentiating writing competence. All the children produced the same number of writing bursts in a timed writing task. Children with specific language impairment produced a shorter number of words in each burst than did the age-matched group but the same as the language skill–matched group. For all groups, spelling accuracy and handwriting speed were significant predictors of burst length and text quality. The frequency of pauses at misspellings was related to shorter bursts. These results offer support to Hayes’s model of text generation; namely, burst length is constrained by language and transcription skills.
Elucidating Parenting Processes That Influence Adolescent Alcohol Use
Authors: Hurt Tera R. , Brody Gene H. , Murry Velma McBride , Berkel Cady , Chen Yi-fu
Published: July 2012

This study’s purpose was to learn why some youth who participated in the Strong African American Families (SAAF) program increased alcohol use after 2 years whereas other youth did not. Using a sample of 28 African American caregiver-youth dyads, the authors collected qualitative data to explore these issues. Findings underscore the importance of caregivers’ practicing vigilant monitoring to keep their adolescents from experimenting with alcohol. Recommendations for limiting access to alcohol and encouraging vigilant parenting are discussed.
Mortality and antioxidant responses in the planarian (Dugesia japonica) after exposure to copper
Authors: Zhang Xiufang , Zhang Bowen , Yi Hongyang , Zhao Bosheng
Published: July 2012

The planarians ( Dugesia japonica) are distributed widely in China, Japan, Korea, and southern Siberia. In this study, the acute toxicity of copper on D. japonica was evaluated using mortality and the activity of the enzymes superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and reactive oxygen species (ROS) as endpoints. Acute toxicity tests were conducted according to the American Society for Testing and Materials guidelines. The 24-, 48-, 72-, and 96-h median lethal concentration that killed 50% of individuals (LC50) were calculated as 8.70, 6.31, 4.48, and 4.23 mg Cu2+/L, respectively, based on measured copper concentrations. When compared with different phyla or classes of freshwater animals, the rank of D. japonica in species sensitivity was in the range of 25–26 for 96-h LC50. The antioxidant enzymes SOD and CAT were determined in D. japonica exposed to two copper concentrations (50 and 100 μg Cu2+/L) with a short-term exposure (15 days). They all attained peak value and then reduced during the experimental period. The GPx activities were activated only for 100 μg/L treatments at days 3 and 6 and then renewed to the original level. Meanwhile, copper significantly increased the levels of ROS in D. japonica. Our study suggests that the adult D. japonica was less sensitive to copper than most other aquatic species. Copper may induce oxidative stress and interfere with the antioxidant defense system of the D. japonica, including SOD and CAT. GPx might be an insusceptible antioxidant enzyme in the metabolic detoxification processes in adult D. japonica.
Protective effect of Calligonum comosum on haloperidol-induced oxidative stress in rat
Authors: Abdel-Sattar Essam A , Mouneir Samar M , Asaad Gihan F , Abdallah Hossam M
Published: July 2012

The aqueous and methanolic extracts of Calligonum comosum were investigated for their antioxidant and dopaminergic effects on haloperidol (HL)-induced neuro- and hepatotoxicities in male albino rat model. The total phenolics, flavonoid content and free radical-scavenging activity of the extracts were determined. The results showed that the antioxidant activity of the methanolic extract was higher than the aqueous one. HL significantly reduced GSH and increased MDA in brain and liver tissues. These values were nearly normalized, in the examined tissues, on concomitant administration of C. comosum methanolic extract with HL. Superoxide dismutase activity in the examined tissues was significantly decreased by HL administration that was normalized by the coadministration of the methanolic extract and, to a less extent, the water extract. Determination of the brain neurotransmitter contents revealed a marked decrease in norepinephrine, dopamine and serotonin, which were restored to near control values by concomitant administration of both C. comosum extracts with HL. The results of this study showed that C. comosum methanolic and aqueous extracts ameliorated HL-induced neuro- and hepatotoxicities in rats.
Boredom and Action—Experiences from Youth Confinement
Authors: Bengtsson Tea Torbenfeldt
Published: July 2012

Few studies have examined boredom as a central experience of everyday life. This article adds to the boredom-related literature by examining the role of boredom and boredom-aversion in the everyday life of young people confined in secure care for young offenders. Data are primarily drawn from an ethnographic study in a Danish secure care unit and include both participant observation and interviews with unit residents. Drawing on theories of boredom and young people’s creation of action through risk-taking edgework, the article demonstrates how boredom is a key experience in daily life in secure care. Waiting is a defining aspect of the experienced boredom, and the young people spend much time “doing nothing,” finding it difficult to relate to the unit’s daily routines. Analyses show that the young people deal with the experience of boredom through the generation of risk-taking action.
The Democratic Contribution of Weakly Tied Political Networks
Authors: Meraz Sharon
Published: July 2012

Given the dearth of research on nonpartisan political blog networks, this article conducted an exploratory analysis of the network ties of elite, moderate blogs in relation to and in comparison with elite, partisan blogs. Sampling 18 ideologically diverse blogs (left-leaning, moderate, and right-leaning) across three public affairs issues in 2007, it was found that weak-tie connections enabled moderate blogs to bridge all ideological blog networks more comprehensibly and expansively than partisan blog networks. Unfortunately, the bridging effect of weak-tie connections provided less internal and external cohesion within the moderate blog network when compared to both partisan blog networks. Moderate blogs had low intragroup (within group) and intergroup (between group) cohesion: moderate blogs not only linked less internally but received fewer, reciprocal linkages from partisan blog networks. Findings highlight the trade-off that moderate blogs make as they sacrifice the visibility benefits of cohesive community for the informational benefits of heterogeneous, weak-tie connections.
Development, Dams and Dilma: the Saga of Belo Monte
Authors: Hall Anthony , Branford Sue
Published: July 2012

The Belo Monte hydropower scheme on the River Xingu in Brazilian Amazonia symbolizes the persistent contradictions between industrial modernization and resource conservation in a fragile environment. For over 30 years, local populations have battled with the energy authorities, contesting the top-down planning approach regularly applied in Brazilian infrastructure expansion. Reconfigured over the past decade as ‘neo-developmentist’, the model complements neoliberalism and is based on a strong alliance between the state as financial backer and the private sector as executor of such major schemes as Belo Monte. Following her predecessors, President Dilma continues to employ authoritarian tactics with little apparent regard for dealing comprehensively with its anticipated severe economic, ecological and social impacts, and with minimal consultation of diverse local groups, especially poorer agricultural and indigenous populations. More transparent and democratic planning procedures are necessary for Belo Monte and similar schemes if Brazil’s environmental credentials are not to be seriously compromised.
An Initial Survey of the Dilma Rousseff Administration in Brazil
Authors: Bertazzo Juliana
Published: July 2012

The collection of papers selected for this special issue brings to a wider audience a deep understanding of the achievements, challenges, and prospects in several key issue-areas of Brazilian politics. Taken together, the articles provide a comprehensive review of the legacy of the most popular president in Brazilian history, Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, a tough act to follow. They also bring an early assessment of policy change and continuity under Dilma Rousseff, the first female president in Brazilian history. In this special issue, UK and Brazil-based authors reflect upon the most controversial aspects of the transition from Lula da Silva to Dilma Rousseff and provide analyses from different theoretical perspectives and disciplines. At a time when Brazil is increasingly visible on the world stage, trade and macroeconomic policy, defence, public security, media, culture, human rights and environmental policy have been highlighted here.
Cruciate ligament loading during common knee rehabilitation exercises
Authors: Escamilla Rafael F , MacLeod Toran D , Wilk Kevin E , Paulos Lonnie , Andrews James R
Published: July 2012

Cruciate ligament injuries are common and may lead to dysfunction if not rehabilitated. Understanding how to progress anterior cruciate ligament and posterior cruciate ligament loading, early after injury or reconstruction, helps clinicians prescribe rehabilitation exercises in a safe manner to enhance recovery. Commonly prescribed therapeutic exercises include both weight-bearing exercise and non-weight-bearing exercise. This review was written to summarize and provide an update on the available literature on cruciate ligament loading during commonly used therapeutic exercises. In general, weight-bearing exercise produces smaller loads on the anterior cruciate ligament and posterior cruciate ligament compared with non-weight-bearing exercise. The anterior cruciate ligament is loaded less at higher knee angles (i.e. 50–100°). Squatting and lunging with a more forward trunk tilt and moving the resistance pad proximally on the leg during the seated knee extension unloads the anterior cruciate ligament. The posterior cruciate ligament is less loaded at lower knee angles (i.e. 0–50°), and may be progressed from level ground walking to a one-leg squat, lunges, wall squat, leg press, and the two-leg squat (from smallest to greatest). Exercise type and technique variation affect cruciate ligament loading, such that the clinician may prescribe therapeutic exercises to progress ligament loading safely, while ensuring optimal recovery of the musculoskeletal system.
Modern pollen assemblages from cultivated rice fields and rice pollen morphology: Application to a study of ancient land use and agriculture in the Pearl River Delta, China
Authors: Yang Shixiong , Zheng Zhuo , Huang Kangyou , Zong Yongqiang , Wang Jianhua , Xu Qinghai , Rolett Barry V , Li Jie
Published: July 2012

Pollen from a series of surface soil samples collected along a transect spanning southeast China was investigated to better understand palynological signals of ancient agriculture and other human activity. The transect surface samples consist of pairs taken inside and outside rice paddy fields. Pollen assemblages from these samples are valuable as modern analogs of human-altered environments and rice agriculture. Our measurements of Poaceae pollen grains from inside the modern rice fields discovered that 34–40 µm is the statistically significant size range for identifying domesticated rice in fossil pollen samples. This conclusion is also based on a size comparison of raw and chemically treated modern pollen grains from the plants. Pollen measurements for local wild grasses show that most native weeds have pollen grains less than 30 µm in size. The modern analogs and our study of the influence of chemical treatment on pollen grain size made it possible to examine a sediment core from the Pearl River delta for evidence of anthropogenic influence, including rice farming. Pollen assemblages from around 2200 cal. yr BP are highly similar to those of our modern analogs representing disturbed landscapes outside modern rice fields. The pollen spectra reveal abrupt increases in Poaceae, Dicranopteris, Artemisia and Pinus indicative of rice farming and forest clearance, at around 2200 cal. yr BP. Major factors associated with this abrupt transition were the rapid formation of the deltaic flood plain and massive increases in the Pearl River delta area population during the Qin Dynasty.
Faculty Member Engagement in Canadian University Internationalization
Authors: Friesen Rhonda
Published: July 2012

Faculty members are key agents in the institutional internationalization process within Canadian higher education. In the growing volumes of literature on internationalization, however, few authors consider how faculty members perceive their role in this process. In this study I take a phenomenological research approach to explore the understanding and motivations of five Canadian faculty members toward their involvement in institutional internationalization strategies. Using de Wit’s (2002) internationalization rationale framework, I compare faculty motivations for engaging internationally with institutional positions on internationalization as articulated in strategic planning documents. Results indicate a range of faculty member engagement in the institutional internationalization process related to the alignment of personal motivations with institutional rationales. Recommendations are offered to assist in devising institutional internationalization strategies that are relevant and meaningful for faculty members and are therefore more likely to engage these key actors in the higher education internationalization process.