bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Inhibition of Hsp90: A Multitarget Approach to Radiosensitization
Authors: Camphausen Kevin , Tofilon Philip J.
Published: August 2007

Hsp90, the 90 kDa heat shock protein, is a highly expressed molecular chaperone that modulates the stability and/or transport of a diverse set of critical cellular regulatory proteins. Among Hsp90 clients are a number of proteins, which in a cell type–dependent manner, contribute to tumor cell radioresistance. Exposure of a variety of solid tumor cell lines to clinically relevant Hsp90 inhibitors results in the simultaneous loss of these radioresponse-associated proteins, which is accompanied by an increase in radiosensitivity. This radiosensitization has been linked to a compromise in the DNA damage response to radiation including the inhibition of cell cycle checkpoint activation and DNA double-strand break repair. With respect to potential clinical application, the expression of ErbB3 seems to predict tumor cells that are resistant to the effects of Hsp90 inhibition on radiosensitivity. Moreover, whereas an increase in tumor cell radiosensitivity was consistently reported, the radiosensitivity of normal fibroblasts was not affected by Hsp90 inhibition, suggesting the potential for tumor-selective radiosensitization. This review summarizes the preclinical data available on Hsp90 inhibition and cellular radiosensitivity. Results generated to date suggest that Hsp90 inhibition can provide a multitarget approach to tumor radiosensitization.
Augmented Antitumor Activity against B-Cell Lymphoma by a Combination of Monoclonal Antibodies Targeting TRAIL-R1 and CD20
Authors: Maddipatla Sreeram , Hernandez-Ilizaliturri Francisco J. , Knight Joy , Czuczman Myron S.
Published: August 2007

Purpose: Mapatumumab and lexatumumab are fully humanized, high-affinity immunoglobulin G1λ monoclonal antibodies (mAb) that target/activate the tumor necrosis factor-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL) receptor 1 (TRAIL-R1) and receptor 2 (TRAIL-R2), respectively, triggering the extrinsic apoptotic pathway. Theoretically, synergistic antitumor activity should be observed by combining TRAIL-R mAbs with agents (e.g., rituximab) that activate the intrinsic apoptotic pathway.

Experimental Design: To this end, targeted antigen expression in a NHL-cell panel was evaluated by flow cytometry. NHL cells were exposed to mapatumumab or lexatumumab followed by rituximab, isotype, or RPMI. DNA synthesis was quantified by [3H]-thymidine incorporation assays. Induction of apoptosis was detected by flow-cytometric analysis. For antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC) and complement-mediated cytotoxicity (CMC) studies, standardized 51Cr-release assays were done. We inoculated severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID) mouse with Raji cells i.v. The animals then were treated with various combinations of rituximab, mapatumumab, lexatumumab, and isotype alone or in combination.

Results: In vitro exposure to mapatumumab resulted in significant apoptosis (30-50%) and decreased DNA synthesis in sensitive lymphoma cells. Mapatumumab/rituximab combination resulted in a significant inhibition of cell proliferation (90% reduction) when compared with mapatumumab (60% reduction) or rituximab (5% reduction). In vivo, the median survival time of animals treated with mapatumumab and rituximab was longer (not reached) than those treated with rituximab monotherapy [33 days (95% confidence interval, 29-37), log-rank test, P = 0.05].

Conclusions: Mapatumumab induces apoptosis, cell growth arrest, ADCC, and CMC. The combination of mapatumumab plus rituximab is more effective in controlling lymphoma growth in vivo than either antibody. Rituximab and mapatumumab warrant further evaluation against B-cell lymphoma.
Peptide Epitopes from the Wilms' Tumor 1 Oncoprotein Stimulate CD4+ and CD8+ T Cells That Recognize and Kill Human Malignant Mesothelioma Tumor Cells
Authors: May Rena J. , Dao Tao , Pinilla-Ibarz Javier , Korontsvit Tatyana , Zakhaleva Victoriya , Zhang Rong H. , Maslak Peter , Scheinberg David A.
Published: August 2007

Purpose: Wilms' tumor 1 protein (WT1), a transcription factor overexpressed in malignant mesothelioma, leukemias, and other solid tumors, is an ideal target for immunotherapy. WT1 class I peptide epitopes that were identified and shown to stimulate CD8+ T cells are being tested as vaccine candidates in several clinical trials. The induction and maintenance of a robust memory CD8+ cytotoxic T-cell response requires CD4+ T-cell help.

Experimental Design: Three HLA class II peptide epitopes of WT1 with high predictive affinities to multiple HLA-DRB1 molecules were identified using the SYFPEITHI algorithm. Due to the highly polymorphic nature of the HLA class II alleles, such reactivity is critical in the development of a broadly useful therapeutic. One of the WT1 CD4+ peptide epitopes, 122-140, comprises a previously identified CD8+ peptide epitope (126-134). By mutating residue 126 from an arginine to a tyrosine, we embedded a synthetic immunogenic analogue CD8+ epitope (126-134) inside the longer peptide (122-140). This analogue was previously designed to improve immunogenicity and induce a potent CD8+ response.

Results: WT1 peptides 328-349 and 423-441 are able to stimulate a peptide-specific CD4+ response that can recognize WT1+ tumor cells in multiple HLA-DRB1 settings as determined by IFN-γ enzyme-linked immunospot assays. The mutated WT1 peptide epitope 122-140 is able to induce CD4+ and cytotoxic CD8+ WT1-specific T-cell responses that can recognize the native WT1 epitopes on the surface of human WT1+ cancer cells. Cross-priming experiments showed that antigen-presenting cells pulsed with either mesothelioma or leukemia tumor lysates can process and present each of the CD4+ peptides identified.

Conclusions: These studies provide the rationale for using the WT1 CD4+ peptides in conjunction with CD8+ peptide epitopes to vaccinate patients with WT1-expressing cancers.
Rationale for a Phase I Trial of Erlotinib and the Mammalian Target of Rapamycin Inhibitor Everolimus (RAD001) for Patients with Relapsed Non–Small Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Johnson Bruce E. , Jackman David , Jänne Pasi A.
Published: August 2007

Background and Rationale: Only 10% of patients with relapsed non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) treated with chemotherapy or erlotinib have a partial response to treatment, and nearly all eventually recur and die from their NSCLC. Agents that can block other pathways in addition to the epidermal growth factor receptor signals may improve the therapeutic efficacy of erlotinib. Everolimus (RAD001) is an inhibitor of the mammalian target of rapamycin, which is downstream of initial epidermal growth factor receptor signaling. A trial combining erlotinib with everolimus has been undertaken for patients with relapsed NSCLC.

Materials and Methods: Subjects with previously treated NSCLC are treated with increasing doses of daily erlotinib and everolimus given either daily or once weekly. The study's objectives in phase I are to assess the feasibility of combining daily erlotinib and either daily or weekly everolimus, to assess toxicity, and to determine the appropriate dose for subsequent trials.

Results: The protocol calls for patients to be treated with escalating daily or weekly everolimus in combination with erlotinib given at doses of 100 mg daily to escalate to 150 mg daily. The dose escalation with both daily and weekly everolimus and erlotinib is ongoing.

Conclusions: Everolimus has an appropriate rationale for therapeutic use in combination with erlotinib for patients with NSCLC. This manuscript will review the preclinical rationale for undertaking a study of erlotinib combined with everolimus for patients with relapsed NSCLC.
Cyclin-Dependent Kinase 4 (CDK4) Expression in Pancreatic Endocrine Tumors
Authors: Lindberg Daniel , Hessman Ola , Åkerström Göran , Westin Gunnar
Published: July 2007

Background/Aims: Pancreatic endocrine tumors (PETs) occur sporadically, in association with the multiple endocrine neoplasia type 1 (MEN1) and the von Hippel-Lindau syndromes. CDK4 is central to the cell cycle control in pancreatic β cells, and we have assessed whether CDK4 expression is deregulated in 18 human sporadic or familial PETs. Methods: Real-time quantitative PCR, immunohistochemistry, DNA sequencing, and Western blot analysis were used. Results: CDK4 mRNA was expressed in all PETs within the range of the arbitrary control. CDK4 protein was absent in normal pancreatic islets but distinctly expressed in all PETs as determined by immunohistochemistry. CDK4 expression was confirmed by Western blot analysis. No significant differences of CDK4 expression were observed between the groups of benign and malignant PETs or between tumors with or without MEN1 gene mutations. CDK4 expression was not due to gene amplification, and no mutations were identified in coding exons and RNA splice sites. c-Myc is known to be overexpressed in PETs and directly augments CDK4 expression in other cell types. Analysis of consecutive tissue sections for CDK4 and c-Myc showed overlapping homo- or heterogeneous immunostaining in all 18 PETs. Conclusion: We conclude that CDK4 and c-Myc is generally expressed in benign and malignant PETs, and regardless of MEN1 mutational status. Targeting of CDK4 may present an alternative to traditional chemotherapy of PETs in the future.
Climate Response Using a Three-Dimensional Operator Based on the Fluctuation–Dissipation Theorem
Authors: Gritsun Andrey , Branstator Grant
Published: August 2007

The fluctuation–dissipation theorem (FDT) states that for systems with certain properties it is possible to generate a linear operator that gives the response of the system to weak external forcing simply by using covariances and lag-covariances of fluctuations of the undisturbed system. This paper points out that the theorem can be shown to hold for systems with properties very close to the properties of the earth’s atmosphere.

As a test of the theorem’s applicability to the atmosphere, a three-dimensional operator for steady responses to external forcing is constructed for data from an atmospheric general circulation model (AGCM). The response of this operator is then compared to the response of the AGCM for various heating functions. In most cases, the FDT-based operator gives three-dimensional responses that are very similar in structure and amplitude to the corresponding GCM responses. The operator is also able to give accurate estimates for the inverse problem in which one derives the forcing that will produce a given response in the AGCM. In the few cases where the operator is not accurate, it appears that the fact that the operator was constructed in a reduced space is at least partly responsible.

As an example of the potential utility of a response operator with the accuracy found here, the FDT-based operator is applied to a problem that is difficult to solve with an AGCM. It is used to generate an influence function that shows how well heating at each point on the globe excites the AGCM’s Northern Hemisphere annular mode (NAM). Most of the regions highlighted by this influence function, including the Arctic and tropical Indian Ocean, are verified by AGCM solutions as being effective locations for stimulating the NAM.
Relating Overreflection and Wave Geometry to the Counterpropagating Rossby Wave Perspective: Toward a Deeper Mechanistic Understanding of Shear Instability
Authors: Harnik N. , Heifetz E.
Published: August 2007

The two major approaches to understanding plane parallel shear instability—the counterpropagating Rossby wave (CRW) and overreflection (OR) approaches—illuminate very different fundamental aspects. This work examines how such seemingly different views can explain the same phenomena and why these differences arise, with the overall goal of deepening our understanding of shear instability.

This is done by rationalizing the OR theory in terms of CRW thinking, using a generalization of the CRW approach to multiple infinitesimal potential vorticity (PV) kernels. First the mechanics of cross-shear wave propagation and the exponential decay in an evanescent region are qualitatively explained. Then the cross-shear behavior in different wave geometries (full, partial, and overreflection) is examined. It is found that overreflection is basically a mutual amplification between PV kernels, with the main kernels being at the two sides of the evanescent region, which forms on one side of the critical level. The nondimensional overreflection coefficient is obtained by assuming a balance between the mutual amplification on the two sides of the evanescent region, and the rate at which this amplification is carried away. The critical level is found to be the only point at which there is a mutual amplification between two adjacent kernels.

A further examination of the sources of energy growth yields a generalized view of the restoking of the Orr mechanism, thought to be central to OR: growth depends explicitly on the shear, as in the Orr mechanism, while mutual PV kernel interactions are responsible for holding the perturbation at a configuration that allows it to contribute to growth (a restoking).
A Midlatitude Cirrus Cloud Climatology from the Facility for Atmospheric Remote Sensing. Part V: Cloud Structural Properties
Authors: Sassen Kenneth , Wang Likun , Starr David O’C. , Comstock Jennifer M. , Quante Markus
Published: August 2007

In this fifth of a series of papers describing the extended-time high cloud observation program from the University of Utah Facility for Atmospheric Remote Sensing, the structural properties of cirrus clouds over Salt Lake City, Utah, are examined. Wavelet analysis is applied to a 10-yr record of cirrus cloud ruby (0.694 μm) lidar backscatter data as a function of cloud height in order to study the presence of periodic cloud structures, such as the signatures of Kelvin–Helmholtz instabilities, cirrus mammata, and uncinus cells (all with length scales of ∼1–10 km), as well as mesoscale cloud organizations generally believed to be induced by gravity waves. About 8.4% of the data display structures after passing a 95% confidence level test, but an 80% confidence level, which seems better able to resolve structures spread over long periods, yields 16.4%. The amount of identified cloud structures does not change significantly with length scale from 0.2 to 200 km, although the frequency of mesoscale cloud structures tends to increase as length scales increase. The middle-to-lower portion of cirrus clouds contains the most identified cloud structures, which seems related to the mesoscale organization of fall streaks from cloud-top-generating cells. The variability of cirrus cloud optical depth τ (defined by the standard deviation over mean τ) derived from a combined lidar and infrared radiometer (LIRAD) analysis is shown to be largely independent of τ. Because visual examination of the lidar displays also indicates that few cirrus layers can be considered horizontally homogeneous over our typical 3-h lidar data collection period, the authors conclude that the clouds in their sample are inherently inhomogeneous even though most cirrus structures are not revealed as periodic by wavelet analysis.
The Effects of a Mountain on the Propagation of a Preexisting Convective System for Blocked and Unblocked Flow Regimes
Authors: Reeves Heather Dawn , Lin Yuh-Lang
Published: August 2007

Observations and previous research of squall lines impinging on mountain ranges have revealed that the squall lines sometimes stall upstream of the mountains for several hours leading to copious accumulations of precipitation. It has been hypothesized that squall-line stagnation may be more prone to occur in flows where the Froude number (F = U/Nh, where U is the basic-state wind, N is the Brunt–Väisälä frequency, and h is the mountain height) is low. This hypothesis is tested herein through a series of idealized, two-dimensional experiments where a convective system was triggered upstream of a mesoscale mountain in conditionally unstable flow. For simulations with relatively low Froude numbers, stagnation of the preexisting convective system was not observed. In the simulations with high values of F, squall lines were noted to stagnate between 100 and 200 km upstream of the mountain. This result indicates that squall-line stagnation may be more favored for moderate to large values of F for conditionally unstable flow. The mechanisms leading to the formation of the stationary convective system upstream of the mountain in the unblocked flows were explored and it was found that evaporative cooling played a pivotal role in the stagnation of the squall line.
Katabatic Winds on Ice Sheets: A Refinement of the Prandtl Model
Authors: Zammett R. J. , Fowler A. C.
Published: August 2007

Katabatic winds on ice sheets and glaciers are buoyancy-driven flows, much like turbidity currents in the ocean. These winds are driven by radiative cooling of the ice surface and are not resolved by the typical horizontal and vertical discretization of general circulation models; therefore, a parameterization of their magnitude is desirable. In this paper, it is shown that the simplest such parameterization, based on the classical Prandtl model of slope winds, is physically inadmissible, and an improved model, which removes this irregularity, is presented. It is also shown that the improved model allows favorable comparison with both observations and regional numerical models.
Dynamics of the Shallow Meridional Circulation around Intertropical Convergence Zones
Authors: Nolan David S. , Zhang Chidong , Chen Shu-hua
Published: August 2007

The generally accepted view of the meridional circulation in the tropical east Pacific is that of a single deep overturning cell driven by deep convective heating in the intertropical convergence zone (ITCZ), similar to the zonal mean Hadley circulation. However, recent observations of the atmosphere from the tropical eastern Pacific have called this view into question. In several independent datasets, significant meridional return flows out of the ITCZ region were observed, not only at high altitudes, but also at low altitudes, just above the atmospheric boundary layer. This paper presents a theory and idealized simulations to understand the causes and dynamics of this shallow meridional circulation (SMC).

Fundamentally, the SMC can be seen as a large-scale sea-breeze circulation driven by sea surface temperature gradients when deep convection is absent in the ITCZ region. A simple model of this circulation is presented. Using observed values, the sea-breeze model shows that the pressure gradient above the boundary can indeed reverse, leading to the pressure force that drives the shallow return flow out of the ITCZ.

The Weather Research and Forecast Model (WRF) is used to simulate an idealized Hadley circulation driven by moist convection in a tropical channel. The SMC is reproduced, with reasonable similarity to the circulation observed in the east Pacific. The simulations confirm that the SMC is driven by a reversal of the pressure gradient above the boundary layer, and that the return flow is strongest when deep convection is absent in the ITCZ, and weakest when deep convection is active. The model also shows that moisture transport out of the ITCZ region is far greater in the low-level shallow return flow than in the high-altitude return flow associated with the deep overturning, and that a budget for water transport in and out of the ITCZ region is grossly incomplete without it. Much of the moisture carried in the shallow return flow is recycled into the boundary layer, but does not appear to contribute to enhanced cloudiness in the subtropical stratocumulus poleward of the ITCZ.
Observed Characteristics of the MJO Relative to Maximum Rainfall
Authors: Benedict James J. , Randall David A.
Published: August 2007

This study examines various dynamical and thermodynamical processes that characterize the Madden–Julian oscillation (MJO). Episodes of deep convection related to the MJO based on rainfall data from the Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission (TRMM) satellite and the Global Precipitation Climatology Project (GPCP) are identified. Although broad convective envelopes are located utilizing spectrally filtered precipitation, analyses of the features within the envelopes are carried out using unfiltered rainfall and 40-yr ECMWF Re-Analysis (ERA-40) fields. The events are composited and categorized based on geographic location and relative intensity.

The composited fields illustrate that, prior to the onset of deep convection, shallow cumulus and cumulus congestus clouds are actively involved in vertical convective transport of heat and moisture. Drying, first accomplished immediately following deep convection in the lower troposphere, is associated with an enhanced horizontal (westerly) advective component and may be related to mesoscale processes. Drying related to deep-layer subsidence is delayed until one to two weeks following intense rainfall. The importance of gradual lower-tropospheric heating and moistening and the vertical transport of energy and moisture are shown in a comparison of vigorous and weak MJO events. Additionally, a comparison of the composite fields to proposed wave instability theories suggests that certain theories are effective in explaining specific phases of the disturbance, but no single theory can yet explain all aspects of the MJO. The discharge–recharge and frictional moisture convergence mechanisms are most relevant for explaining many of the observed features of MJO evolution.
Influence of Doubled CO2 on Ozone via Changes in the Brewer–Dobson Circulation
Authors: Jiang Xun , Eichelberger Scott J. , Hartmann Dennis L. , Shia Runlie , Yung Yuk L.
Published: August 2007

In this short note, the effect of enhanced circulation due to doubling CO2 on ozone is investigated. The difference of Brewer–Dobson circulation (BDC) between the doubled CO2 and control run from an idealized atmospheric general circulation model is added to the BDC climatology derived from National Centers for Environmental Prediction—Department of Energy Reanalysis 2 (NCEP2) from 1979 to 2002. Then it is used to drive the California Institute of Technology/Jet Propulsion Laboratory (Caltech/JPL) two-dimensional chemistry and transport model. The results reveal that the total ozone increases by 7 and 3.5 Dobson units (DU) in the high latitudes of the Northern and Southern Hemispheres, respectively, and decreases by 4 DU in the Tropics as a result of the increase in BDC associated with doubled CO2. If the change of eddy mixing coefficients after doubling CO2 is also considered, the total ozone will increase by 6.5 and 3 DU in the high latitudes of the Northern and Southern Hemispheres after combining both effects from the change in BDC and eddy mixing coefficients.
Targeted Observations of Tropical Cyclone Movement Based on the Adjoint-Derived Sensitivity Steering Vector
Authors: Wu Chun-Chieh , Chen Jan-Huey , Lin Po-Hsiung , Chou Kun-Hsuan
Published: August 2007

Since 2003, a field program has been conducted under the name of Dropwindsonde Observations for Typhoon Surveillance near the Taiwan Region (DOTSTAR). As the name DOTSTAR suggests, targeted observation is one of its key objectives. The prerequisite for designing the observing strategy is to identify the sensitive areas, which would exert great influence on the results of numerical forecast or the extent of the forecast error.

In addition to various sensitivity products already adopted in DOTSTAR, a new way to identify the sensitive area for the targeted observation of tropical cyclones based on the fifth-generation Pennsylvania State University–National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCAR) Mesoscale Model (MM5) is proposed in this paper. By appropriately defining the response functions to represent the steering flow at the verifying time, a simple vector, adjoint-derived sensitivity steering vector (ADSSV), has been designed to demonstrate the sensitivity locations and the critical direction of typhoon steering flow at the observing time. Typhoons Meari and Mindulle of 2004 have been selected to show the use of ADSSV. In general, unique sensitive areas 36 h after the observing time are obtained.

The proposed ADSSV method is also used to demonstrate the signal of the binary interaction between Typhoons Fungwong and Fengshen (2002). The ADSSV is implemented and examined in the field project, DOTSTAR, in 2005 as well as in the surveillance mission for Atlantic hurricanes conducted by the Hurricane Research Division. Further analysis of the results will be vital to validate the use of ADSSV.
Numerical Study of Precipitation Core-Gap Structure along Cold Fronts
Authors: Kawashima Masayuki
Published: August 2007

The mechanism responsible for the core-gap structure of precipitation along narrow cold-frontal rainbands (NCFRs) is investigated through analyses of idealized cloud-resolving simulations of cold fronts. The control simulation, in which the prefrontal thermal stratification is characterized by a weak convective instability at low levels with convective available potential energy (CAPE) of ∼60 J kg−1, reproduces the typical alongfront variability of observed NCFRs. The simulated NCFR is broken up into regularly spaced, ellipsoidal cores oriented at a clockwise angle to the cold front. While horizontal-shear instability (HSI) has frequently been proposed as a mechanism leading to the alongfront variability of NCFRs, no characteristic features of HSI are recognized in the simulated vertical vorticity field at the leading edge of the cold front. The alongfront variability in precipitation is attributed to the formation of a wavelike disturbance just above the leading edge of the cold front. The wave phase lines are oriented nearly perpendicular to the direction of mean vertical shear, with enhanced (suppressed) precipitation occurring at the wave updrafts (downdrafts). An analysis of the eddy kinetic energy budget indicates that the wavelike disturbance derives most of its energy from the mean vertical shear and the buoyancy.

Sensitivity experiments reveal a systematic relationship between the alongfront variability of NCFRs and the stability of the prefrontal thermal stratification. Simulated precipitation cores remain essentially parallel to the cold front when the prefrontal environment is absolutely stable or almost neutral to surface parcel ascent. The typical alongfront variability of NCFRs is reproduced for weakly unstable environments with small amounts of CAPE (≤140 J kg−1). On the other hand, simulations with sufficiently unstable environments produce precipitation cores oriented counterclockwise to cold fronts.
Extreme Value Statistics of the Total Energy in an Intermediate-Complexity Model of the Midlatitude Atmospheric Jet. Part II: Trend Detection and Assessment
Authors: Felici Mara , Lucarini Valerio , Speranza Antonio , Vitolo Renato
Published: August 2007

A baroclinic model for the atmospheric jet at middle latitudes is used as a stochastic generator of nonstationary time series of the total energy of the system. A linear time trend is imposed on the parameter TE, descriptive of the forced equator-to-pole temperature gradient and responsible for setting the average baroclinicity in the model. The focus lies on establishing a theoretically sound framework for the detection and assessment of trend at extreme values of the generated time series. This problem is dealt with by fitting time-dependent generalized extreme value (GEV) models to sequences of yearly maxima of the total energy. A family of GEV models is used in which the location μ and scale parameters σ depend quadratically and linearly on time, respectively, while the shape parameter ξ is kept constant. From this family, a GEV model is selected with Akaike’s information criterion, complemented by the likelihood ratio test and by assessment through standard graphical diagnostics. The inferred location and scale parameters are found to depend in a rather smooth way on time and, therefore, on TE. In particular, power-law dependences of μ and σ on TE are obtained, in analogy with the results of a previous work where the same baroclinic model was run with fixed values of TE spanning the same range as in this case. It is emphasized under which conditions the adopted approach is valid.
Henri de Lubac's Surnaturel: An Emerging Christology
Authors: O'Sullivan Noel
Published: August 2007

De Lubac's long and arduous involvement in the question of the relationship between nature and the supernatural reveals a theologian struggling to break through the encrustation of neo-scholastic concepts. The solution to this aporia is to understand the human relationship with God in terms of the Mystery of Christ, which becomes evident in the wider de Lubac corpus. The author argues that this process begins in the supernatural debate itself and that de Lubac's writings on the subject reveal an emerging christology.
`Subsistit' in Ecumenical Ecclesiology: J. Ratzinger and E. Jüngel
Authors: Gamberini Paolo
Published: August 2007

This article addresses the issue of an ecumenical understanding of subsistit, comparing the former Joseph Cardinal Ratzinger's with Eberhard Jüngel's Ecclesiology. According to Ratzinger, the ecclesiological subsistit has a Christological foundation, whereas, according to Jüngel, the term must be understood within the framework of a Trinitarian theology. The author argues that these alternative interpretations of subsistit can be united on the basis of the self-communication of the Trinitarian God. Thus the context in which to understand the subsistit should be the oikonomia rather than the theologia.
The Theology of Lay Ministry: `Developments' Since Vatican II
Authors: O'Brien Oonagh
Published: August 2007

Ministry, particularly lay ministry, is developing and expanding in the Roman Catholic Church. Much of the theological understanding of this new practice is based on the Second Vatican Council's re-appreciation of the church as the body of Christ and of the mission of the church as the responsibility of all. Despite this, one finds in post-conciliar documents and instructions a continued re-assertion of the association between ministry and ordained priesthood, and of the role of the laity as being in the 'world' rather than the 'church.' This article critiques some church teaching on lay ministry since the Council and presents some challenges for the future.
On Tanner's `Economy of Grace': An Economist Responds
Authors: Pecchenino Rowena
Published: August 2007

Kathryn Tanner constructs a theological economic system based on the tenets of grace. Her system, which attempts to address Christianity’s concern for fundamental economic rights, is ultimately flawed. I establish how her theological economic system is built on faulty assumptions, while determining whether the key benefits that she identifies as outcomes can be achieved in the current competitive market system.
A Dialogical Exegesis of Romans 3.25a*
Authors: Ekem John D.K.
Published: July 2007

The Letter to the Romans presents a very interesting case study of atonement. In Rom. 3.25a, Jesus is portrayed as the one whom God `put forward' as ίλαστήριoν διά [τnς] πιστεως έν τω αύτou α~ματι… The exact meaning of ίλαστήρ ιoν in relation to the rest of the text is a subject of controversy among scholars. The article argues that it would be legitimate to interpret ίλαστήρ ιoν as `a revelatory means of atonement' and that Paul makes creative use of his thorough acquaintance with the Jewish scriptures to reinterpret ίλαστήρ ιoν from a Christological perspective. But the article goes beyond a traditional exegetical investigation to discuss the subject in relation to hermeneutical insights derived from selected translations of the Bible into some key European and Ghanaian languages. In this regard, the article employs the method of `dialogical exegesis' which embarks on dialogue between the biblical text, together with its embedded world-views, and these European/Ghanaian translations that reflect the world-views of their authors and target audiences. The article finally suggests ways in which the outcome of this investigation can enhance the preparation of context-sensitive Study Bible Notes and Commentaries in a Ghanaian/African setting.
Hearing the Politics of Peace in Ephesians: A Proposal from an African Postcolonial Perspective
Authors: Yorke Gosnell L.
Published: July 2007

One hears much these days about the African renaissance at the heart of which is the persistent call for a development-enhancing and durable peace in what is still a largely marginalized continent. Here it is proposed that an oral, rhetorical and epistolary analysis of the theme of peace (είρ'η η) in Ephesians, against the backdrop of a contemporary postcolonial and predominantly African oral environment in which the Bible is currently being translated, predisposes us to hear and, perhaps, better appreciate the political ring of peace (είρ'η η). This allows us to hear not only an echo of when rightly understood against the backdrop of the Hebrew Scriptures and traditions, but also acoustic resonances of the Pax Romana or Pax Augusti within the more immediate Graeco-Roman environment as well—one within which the original and mostly marginalized listeners to the orally performed epistle were themselves situated.
The Determinants of Post-Privatization Efficiency Gains: The Taiwanese Experience
Authors: Wu Hsueh-liang , Parker David
Published: July 2007

The impact of privatization on economic performance remains controversial. In this article, labour productivity gains pre- and post-privatization are compared using a sample of firms privatized in Taiwan between 1989 and 2002. To control for economic environmental effects independent of ownership, performance is assessed relative to the average performance of other firms in the same industry over the same period. Also, using an analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) model, the study examines the direct effects of competition, the continuing presence of state-appointed board members and the pre-privatization financial health of enterprises on productivity gains. In addition, the study considers how these different variables may interact to explain performance changes. The results underline the importance of competition in promoting productivity gains but, more surprisingly, find that continued majority government representation on boards seems to have no significant effect on labour productivity. The study does find a relationship between financial health under state control and productivity gains following privatization. Later in the article, performance is also measured in terms of profitability, and the results are the same.
The Interdependence of the Factors Influencing the Perceived Quality of the Online Learning Experience: A Causal Model
Authors: Peltier James W. , Schibrowsky John A. , Drago William
Published: July 2007

A structural model of the drivers of online education is proposed and tested. The findings help to identify the interrelated nature of the lectures delivered via technology outside of the traditional classroom, the importance of mentoring, the need to develop course structure, the changing roles for instructors and students, and the importance of designing and delivering course content on the enhancement of the online learning experience. The results support an integrated, building-block approach for developing successful online programs and courses.
Using the Diary Method to Deal With Social Loafers on the Group Project: Its Effects on Peer Evaluations, Group Behavior, and Attitudes
Authors: Dommeyer Curt J.
Published: July 2007

This article reports on the use of group and individual diaries to control social loafing on the group project. Although both forms of the diary were designed to prevent social loafing, neither appeared to do so. An unexpected result of the individual diaries is that they appeared to make the majority of the class, namely the “nonloafers,” more aware of and less tolerant of their loafing partners. Consequently, firings of group members were most likely to occur when individual diaries were used. This article shows how the diary method affects peer evaluations and group behavior, investigates the convergent validity of the individual diary, and summarizes students' attitudes toward the diary method.
Modeling of Hybrid Damping Scheme Using Smart Magnetostrictive Composites for Flexible Manipulator
Authors: Bandopadhya Dibakar , Bhattacharya Bishakh , Dutta Ashish
Published: August 2007

In this article a method called, hybrid damping has been proposed to check the high amplitude non-linear vibration within a desired limit using smart magnetostrictive composite materials. For this, a flexible manipulator of large length has been modeled using a finite element method (FEM) which compared the efficiency, computation time, and damping performance corresponding to different actuations. Hybrid damping is an interactive combination of active and passive damping. An active damping scheme is employed to control the induced strains in the passive damping coating. Smart magnetostrictive material, Terfenol-D, is used to achieve active damping in the link. Fabrication of Terfenol-D based composite actuator which is used in the experiment is also discussed. Such materials can be used as an intelligent distributed layer over the link to introduce distributed control of vibration. For passive damping, a layer of strain dependent nanocomposite damping material poly-ethylene poly-ethylene glycol (PPEPEG) is used. Mathematical modeling of hybrid damping is done following a FEM and integrated with the manipulator. Simulations are first done to demonstrate the effectiveness of vibration attenuation. Experiments are conducted to validate the simulation results. It is observed that the hybrid damping scheme is able to damp vibration in the manipulator efficiently.
Myocardial infarction in a young man with antiphospholipid syndrome and cocaine use
Authors: Williams E.L. , Endean A.L. , Edwards C.J.
Published: July 2007

The authors present a case of myocardial infarction in a 26-year-old man with antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) and a history of recent cocaine use. His only traditional cardiovascular risk was that he smoked. The authors propose that his cocaine use and APS brought about a potentially catastrophic cardiac event despite therapeutic anticoagulation. This was supported by the finding of normal coronary arteries on angiography despite both a significant regional wall motion abnormality on echocardiography and a significant rise in Troponin I. This case suggests the presence of a synergistic effect between cocaine and antiphospholipid antibodies. ( Lupus (2007) 16, 444—446)
Cardiac tamponade due to systemic lupus erythematosus in patient with Prader-Willi syndrome after growth hormone therapy
Authors: Kuramochi Y. , Kato T. , Sudou M. , Sugano H. , Takagi H. , Morita T.
Published: July 2007

We present a 16-year old girl with Prader-Willi syndrome who developed cardiac tamponade as an initial finding of systemic lupus erythematosus. Until one year prior to this episode, she had received growth hormone treatment for nine years. The association among Prader-Willi syndrome, growth hormone treatment and systemic lupus erythematosus is discussed. Lupus (2007) 16, 447—449.
Human monoclonal antibodies against the complex of phosphatidylserine and prothrombin from patients with the antiphospholipid antibodies
Authors: Horita T. , Ichikawa K. , Kataoka H. , Yasuda S. , Atsumi T. , Koike T.
Published: August 2007

The presence of antibodies against the complex of prothrombin and phosphatidylserine (aPS/PT) more significantly correlates with manifestations of antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) and with the presence of lupus anticoagulants (LA) than antibodies against prothrombin bound to oxygenated polystyrene (aPT-A). To investigate immunological specificities and functional activities of aPS/PT, four monoclonal aPS/PT, designated as HG-4, KE-6, KF-5 and KF-6, from two patients with antiphospholipid antibodies (aPL) were established and characterized. Three of these antibodies (HG-4, KF-5 and KF-6) recognized the complex of phosphatidylserine and prothrombin, but did not react to prothrombin directly coated on oxygenated plates. KE-6 bound not only to the complex of phosphatidylserine and prothrombin but also to prothrombin on oxygenated plates. None of them showed the binding activity to prothrombin directly coated on non-oxygenated plates. HG-4, KE-6 and KF-5 had LA-like activity. The findings support the hypothesis that autoimmune aPS/PT recognize the cryptic epitopes or neoepitopes exposed upon interaction between prothrombin and phosphatidylserine, and that aPS/PT are, at least in part, responsible for LA activity. Lupus (2007) 16, 509—516.
Proposed response criteria for neurocognitive impairment in systemic lupus erythematosus clinical trials
Authors: Mikdashi Jamal A
Published: July 2007

The objective of this study was to identify reliable and valid instruments to measure cognitive impairment in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), and to define minimally important change of cognitive impairment in SLE for clinical trials. Neurocognitive measures used in randomized clinical trials in SLE were reviewed, and response criteria were developed using consensus expert opinion. The definition of cognitive impairment in the ACR nomenclature for neuropsychiatric lupus syndrome was adopted. Cognitive impairment is a deficit of 2.0 or more standard deviations (SD) below the mean, compared to normative data, in the key domains of attention, memory and psychomotor speed. Cognitive decline is defined as a deficit of 1.5—1.9 SD below the mean. Focal decline is defined if impairment exists in one or more measures within one domain, and multifocal decline if impairment exists on measures spanning two or more domains. The combination of ACR neuropsychological battery and the Cognitive Symptoms Inventory (CSI) is recommended to quantitate cognitive function. A clinically important response is defined as an improvement of ≥ 1.0 SD with an effect size of 1.0 in the key domains of the ACR neuropsychological testing, and an improvement of ≥ 1.0 SD with an effect size of 1.0 in functional performance of the CSI. Lupus (2007) 16, 418—425
Elevated levels of TRAIL in systemic lupus erythematosus are associated to the presence of anti-SSA/SSB antibodies
Authors: Castellino G. , Corallini F. , Trotta F. , Secchiero P.
Published: August 2007

The objective of this study was to determine potential relationship between the levels of serum TNF-related apoptosis inducing ligand (TRAIL) and osteoprotegerin (OPG) and clinical markers in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients. Forty SLE patients with inactive disease were enrolled in this study. For comparison, 20 Sjögren's syndrome (SS) patients and 30 normal controls were also analysed. Serum levels of TRAIL and OPG were determined by ELISA. Serum TRAIL and OPG concentrations in SLE patients were significantly ( P < 0.05) higher than those in healthy volunteers. Of note, serum TRAIL but not OPG was significantly ( P < 0.05) higher in the SLE patient subset characterized by the presence of anti-SSA/SSB antibodies. The relationship between high levels of TRAIL and SSA/SSB antibodies was further supported by the analysis of SS patients characterized by SSA/SSB antibodies positivity, in which TRAIL levels resulted comparable to the subgroup of anti-SSA/SSB positive SLE patients. The presence of SSA/SSB antibodies, targeting a specific subset of SLE and SS patients, is related to increased serum levels of TRAIL but not of OPG. Lupus (2007) 16, 479—482.
Impaired endothelial function and increased carotid intima-media thickness in association with elevated von Willebrand antigen level in primary antiphospholipid syndrome
Authors: Der H. , Kerekes G. , Veres K. , Szodoray P. , Toth J. , Lakos G. , Szegedi G. , Soltesz P.
Published: August 2007

Primary antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) is characterized by venous or arterial thrombotic events and/or recurrent abortions, fetal death, preeclasmpsia, eclampsia in the presence of anticardiolipin antibodies or lupus anticoagulant, in the absence of accompanying diseases. Antiphospholipid antibodies can activate endothelial cells, and were recently implicated in atherosclerosis. To assess potential endothelial impairment and early signs of atherosclerosis, flow-mediated (endothelium-dependent) and nitrate-mediated (endothelium independent) vasodilation, as well as von Willebrand factor antigen level and carotid artery intima-media thickness (IMT) were measured in patients with primary antiphospholipid syndrome and in healthy controls. Flow-mediated vasodilation in patients with primary APS was significantly lower than that of controls (3.43 ± 2.86% versus 7.96 ± 3.57%; P < 0.0001). We also found significantly higher von Willebrand antigen levels in patients with primary APS than in the control group (157.91 ± 52.45% versus 125.87 ± 32.8%; P = 0.012). Moreover, carotid artery IMT was significantly larger in the primary APS group compared to controls (0.714 ± 0.2 mm versus 0.58 ± 0.085 mm; P = 0.0037). Our results reflect ongoing endothelial damage and accelerated atherosclerosis in patients with primary APS, and suggest that vasoprotective therapy may be beneficial in the treatment of these patients. Lupus (2007) 16, 497—503.
The contribution of creative writing to the standardization of Mauritian Creole
Authors: Mooneeram Roshni
Published: August 2007

In the histories of western European vernacular languages, it is widely acknowledged that literary figures have played an important role in the process of language standardization. Indeed, the codifying of language and the canonizing of literature are often seen as symbiotic processes. This article explores the links between creative writing and standardization by looking at the case of Mauritian Creole (MC). For these purposes, I carry out a linguistic analysis of selected works of Dev Virahsawmy, the pioneering and most prolific author using the medium of MC. The analysis focuses on the development of a systematic orthography, lexical, register and syntactic elaboration. In the case of MC, which did not have a written form prior to literature, it is suggested that the symbiosis mentioned by Adamson in relation to language standardization runs deeper. The article finally highlights the establishment of a standard as being subject to intentional individual pressures.
Data quality management: an example in caregiver research
Authors: Friedemann Marie-Luise , Mayorga Carlos , Newman Frederick L.
Published: July 2007

The purpose of this paper is to assist nurse researchers around the world in addressing data quality issues by guiding them through an example of a complex multicultural study of caregivers who take care of elders in their home. Using data flow diagrams for visualization, methods of data quality management are outlined in the stages of subject recruitment, data gathering, and data monitoring. Various strategies are used to improve the quality of such data as the sample, information on consent forms, raw interview data, and the electronic data file. These strategies are aimed at avoiding various sources of human error, error in sampling, non-response and coverage error, as well as error of measurement and processing. Ultimately, this exemplar demonstrates an approach to realistic decision making and may offer nurse researchers incentives for discussion of their own data quality plans. Since immigrant population groups are expanding in many countries across the world, nurse researchers who seek to include such ethnic groups in their studies may find the multiethnic considerations included in the discussion of additional value.