bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Concomitant Activity of Histamine and Cysteinyl Leukotrienes on Porcine Nasal Mucosal Vessels and Nasal Inflammation in the Rat
Authors: Lieber Gissela , Jimenez Johanna , Hunter John C. , McLeod Robbie L. , Jia Yanlin
Published: May 2010

Background: Histamine and cysteinyl leukotrienes are pivotal mast cell mediators which contribute considerably and likely complementary to the symptoms of allergic rhinitis. Currently, we sought to explore the direct actions of histamine and leukotriene D4 (LTD4), a cysteinyl leukotriene, on porcine nasal arteries and veins. We also studied combined blocks of histamine and cysteinyl leukotrienes using loratadine and montelukast in an in vivo model of allergy-mediated nasal inflammation. Methods: For the evaluation of the action of histamine and LTD4 on arteries and veins, porcine nasal mucosa was isolated and cut into slices (100–300 µm thick). Real-time images of the nasal arteries and veins were recorded and vessel activities estimated by changes in cross-sectional area before and after the tested drugs. For the in vivo studies, the effect of loratadine and montelukast given alone and in combination was examined on upper airway inflammation in ovalbumin-sensitized and -challenged Brown Norway rats. Results: Both histamine (0.001–10 µmol/l) and LTD4 (0.001–10 µmol/l) produced a concentration-dependent increase in the lumen area of nasal mucosa arteries and veins. Histamine (0.01 µmol/l) alone produced a 24 and 12% increase in cross-sectional areas of arteries and veins, respectively. LTD4 (0.001 µmol/l) alone increased artery and vein dilation by about 17 and 9%, respectively. Combination treatment with histamine (0.01 µmol/l) and LTD4 (0.001 µmol/l) increased vessel dilation by 65% (arteries) and 26% (veins). In our in vivo Brown Norway rat studies, oral loratadine (0.01–10 mg/kg) and montelukast (0.01–10 mg/kg) significantly reduced antigen-induced total nasal inflammatory cell infiltration in a dose-dependent manner. The antiinflammatory dose-response curve of loratadine was shifted to the left when studied in combination with montelukast (0.01 mg/kg). Similarly, the dose-response characteristics of montelukast (0.01–10 mg/kg) was shifted in the presence of loratadine (0.01 mg/kg). Conclusion: Our studies support the position that histamine and cysteinyl leukotrienes may act collaboratively to elicit allergic nasal pathologies such as upper airway inflammation and nasal vessel dilation (which may translate into increased nasal mucosal engorgement). Furthermore, the current results are supportive of the hypothesis that combined treatment of allergic rhinitis with an H1 receptor antagonist and a CysLT1 receptor antagonist may have greater benefit than sole treatment with these agents alone.
Apoptosis in Immune-Mediated Liver Diseases
Authors: Kahraman Alisan , Gerken Guido , Canbay Ali
Published: May 2010

Autoimmune diseases of the liver are chronic inflammatory processes leading to injury of hepatocytes and cholangiocytes. Cell death by apoptosis is a prominent feature in a variety of liver diseases. It is likely that apoptosis is the initial cellular response to liver and biliary injury and may thus initiate several cellular and cytokine cascades. Obviously, this cascade of events is of particular clinical importance. This short overview will focus on the role of apoptosis in immune-mediated liver diseases. Recently, also soluble forms of major histocompatibility complex class I-related chains A and closely related B (MIC A and B) were reported to be increased in the sera of patients with autoimmune and cholestatic liver diseases, and also in non-alcoholic steatohepatitis. MIC A and B are cell surface glycoproteins that function as indicators for cellular stress by displaying peptides derived from proteins degraded in the cytosol on the cell surface, and thus facilitate the recognition of intracellular antigens by circulating cytotoxic natural killer cells, leading to enhanced cell death. Nowadays rational-based strategies are being developed to suppress apoptotic cell death as a novel therapeutic option for the treatment of these liver diseases.
Vegetative State and Minimally Conscious State: A Review of the Therapeutic Interventions
Authors: Georgiopoulos Miltiadis , Katsakiori Paraskevi , Kefalopoulou Zinovia , Ellul John , Chroni Elisabeth , Constantoyannis Constantine
Published: May 2010

Background/Aims: The purpose of the present article is a systematic review of the proposed medical or surgical treatments in patients in chronic vegetative state (VS) or minimally conscious state (MCS), as well as of their mechanisms of action and limitations. Methods: For this review, we have agreed to include patients in VS or MCS having persisted for over 6 months in posttraumatic cases, and over 3 months in nontraumatic cases, before the time of intervention. Searches were independently conducted by 2 investigators between May 2009 and September 2009 in the following databases: Medline, Web of Science and the Cochrane Library. The electronic search was complemented by cross-checking the references of all relevant articles. Overall, 16 papers were eligible for this systematic review. Results: According to the 16 eligible studies, medical management by dopaminergic agents (levodopa, amantadine), zolpidem and median nerve stimulation, or surgical management by deep brain stimulation, extradural cortical stimulation, spinal cord stimulation and intrathecal baclofen have shown to improve the level of consciousness in certain cases. Conclusion: The treatments proposed for disorders of consciousness have not yet gained the level of ‘evidence-based treatments’; moreover, the studies to date have led to inconclusiveness. The published therapeutic responses must be substantiated by further clinical studies of sound methodology.
Data Management System in a Movement Disorder Center: Technical Report
Authors: Paek Sun Ha , Kim Jin Wook , Lim Yong Hoon , Kim Mi Ryong , Kim Dong Gyu , Jeon Beom Seok
Published: May 2010

Objective: We designed a specialized monitoring unit and data management system with systematic storage and easy access for a deep brain stimulation program of patients with movement disorders. Methods: All patients were monitored and evaluated in a specialized 24-hour monitoring system whenever it was needed, postoperatively as well as preoperatively. We digitized all the data and developed a data management system that allowed for systematic storage and easy access to the data on demand by users in the offices and outpatient clinics. Conclusion: We describe our data management system and how it provides benefit to patients in order that others may use it as a template for designing their own data management system.
Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptor Alpha and Alpha/Gamma Agonists Do Not Cause Impairment in Renal Function in the Rat
Authors: Ovcharenko Elena , Hansen Michael K. , Goltsman Ilia , Abu-Saleh Niroz , Abassi Zaid , Walsh Kathryn , Miele Gino , Feuerstein Giora Z. , Winaver Joseph
Published: May 2010

Background/Aims: Patients treated with peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor analogs (PPAR) α or α/γ may develop a transient and reversible increase in serum creatinine, the mechanism of which remains obscure. This study evaluates whether treatment with either PPAR-α or -α/γ analogs, fenofibrate or tesaglitazar, may cause deterioration in renal hemodynamics or exert direct tubular or glomerular nephrotoxic effects in rats. Methods: Male Sprague-Dawley rats (300–320 g) were treated per os with fenofibrate (300 mg/kg/day), tesaglitazar (1.2 mg/kg/day) or vehicle, for 14 days. Glomerular filtration rate (GFR) and renal blood flow (RBF) were measured by inulin clearance and ultrasonic flowmetry, and cumulative excretion of sodium and creatinine were assessed. Biomarkers of glomerular and tubular injury were measured, including urinary albumin excretion and renal mRNA levels of kidney injury molecule 1 (Kim-1), lipocalin 2 (Lcn2), and osteopontin (Spp1). Results: Fenofibrate and tesaglitazar improved the lipid profile, but caused no detectable decrease in GFR or RBF compared with vehicle-treated rats. Furthermore, the cumulative excretions of sodium and creatinine were not altered by the drugs. Finally, there was no significant difference between drug- and vehicle-treated groups in urinary albumin excretion or in the expression of renal injury biomarkers. Conclusions: In the rat, no direct nephrotoxic effect or deterioration in renal hemodynamics and function were observed following treatment with fenofibrate or tesaglitazar.
Acute and Chronic Exercise Effects on Attentional Control in Older Road Cyclists
Authors: Pesce Caterina , Cereatti Lucio , Forte Roberta , Crova Claudia , Casella Rita
Published: May 2010

Background: Research on visual attention control of older road cyclists, who represent a subgroup of traffic participants, is still scarce and studies on their attentional performance while cycling are completely lacking. Objective: The present study assessed whether attention control performance of older individuals with a history of participation in road cycling is affected by concomitant cycling exercise. Acute exercise effects were also analyzed in co-aged aerobically trained and sedentary noncyclists to assess whether the acute exercise-cognition relationship is moderated by individual differences induced by chronic sport practice versus sedentary lifestyle. Methods: Sixteen 60- to 80-year-old cyclists and 32 age-matched noncyclists (16 endurance athletes and 16 sedentary individuals) performed a go/no-go reaction time task in which visual attention was cued by means of spatial cues of different sizes followed by compound stimuli with local and global target features. Results: Older cyclists showed commonalities with and differences from other aerobically trained athletes. Both trained groups, when compared to sedentary individuals, showed shorter reaction time (RT) during physical exercise and a smaller RT disadvantage for unexpected local targets at short stimulus-onset asynchrony (SOA). This expectancy-driven RT effect was stable across SOAs only in the case of cyclists. Conclusions: Results suggest that chronic long-term aerobic training may lead to favorable conditions for the occurrence of a facilitation effect during acute exercise and for a more efficient use of available resources on attentional tasks involving executive control. These results highlight the importance of considering the effects of aerobic exercise for supporting safe on-road behavior.
The International Consortium on Lithium Genetics (ConLiGen): An Initiative by the NIMH and IGSLI to Study the Genetic Basis of Response to Lithium Treatment
Authors: Schulze Thomas G. , Alda Martin , Adli Mazda , Akula Nirmala , Ardau Raffaella , Bui Elise T. , Chillotti Caterina , Cichon Sven , Czerski Piotr , Del Zompo Maria , Detera-Wadleigh Sevilla D. , Grof Paul , Gruber Oliver , Hashimoto Ryota , Hauser Joanna , Hoban Rebecca , Iwata Nakao , Kassem Layla , Kato Tadafumi , Kittel-Schneider Sarah , Kliwicki Sebastian , Kelsoe John R. , Kusumi Ichiro , Laje Gonzalo , Leckband Susan G. , Manchia Mirko , MacQueen Glenda , Masui Takuya , Ozaki Norio , Perlis Roy H. , Pfennig Andrea , Piccardi Paola , Richardson Sara , Rouleau Guy , Reif Andreas , Rybakowski Janusz K. , Sasse Johanna , Schumacher Johannes , Severino Giovanni , Smoller Jordan W. , Squassina Alessio , Turecki Gustavo , Young L.Trevor , Yoshikawa Takeo , Bauer Michael , McMahon Francis J.
Published: May 2010

For more than half a decade, lithium has been successfully used to treat bipolar disorder. Worldwide, it is considered the first-line mood stabilizer. Apart from its proven antimanic and prophylactic effects, considerable evidence also suggests an antisuicidal effect in affective disorders. Lithium is also effectively used to augment antidepressant drugs in the treatment of refractory major depressive episodes and prevent relapses in recurrent unipolar depression. In contrast to many psychiatric drugs, lithium has outlasted various pharmacotherapeutic ‘fashions’, and remains an indispensable element in contemporary psychopharmacology. Nevertheless, data from pharmacogenetic studies of lithium are comparatively sparse, and these studies are generally characterized by small sample sizes and varying definitions of response. Here, we present an international effort to elucidate the genetic underpinnings of lithium response in bipolar disorder. Following an initiative by the International Group for the Study of Lithium-Treated Patients (www.IGSLI.org) and the Unit on the Genetic Basis of Mood and Anxiety Disorders at the National Institute of Mental Health,lithium researchers from around the world have formed the Consortium on Lithium Genetics (www.ConLiGen.org) to establish the largest sample to date for genome-wide studies of lithium response in bipolar disorder, currently comprising more than 1,200 patients characterized for response to lithium treatment. A stringent phenotype definition of response is one of the hallmarks of this collaboration. ConLiGen invites all lithium researchers to join its efforts.
Respiratory Muscle Strength and Lung Function in Patients Undergoing Medical Thoracoscopy
Authors: Froudarakis Marios E. , Pataka Athanasia , Makris Demosthenes , Kouliatsis George , Anevlavis Stavros , Sotiriou Ioannis , Steiropoulos Paschalis , Eleftheriadis Savas , Bouros Demosthenes
Published: May 2010

Background: Medical thoracoscopy (MT) is a procedure considered as minimally invasive. The safety of the procedure has been questioned recently in fragile patients, but no explanation of the pathophysiologic mechanism has been given. Although MT is applied by respiratory physicians who are also dealing with patients with impairment of lung function, it is surprising that there are no data concerning lung mechanics and function in this patient population. Objectives: To assess respiratory muscle strength and lung function in patients undergoing MT, with or without talc pleurodesis. Methods: We measured prospectively the maximal inspiratory (MIP) and expiratory pressures (MEP) and lung function of 29 patients who underwent MT before (baseline) and on consecutive days following MT. Results: 29 patients participated with a mean age of 63.6 ± 13.8 (range 20–79) years. 15 of them underwent talc pleurodesis and 14 diagnostic thoracoscopy. Mean MIP and MEP values were significantly decreased on day (d) 1 after MT compared to baseline (p = 0.03 and p = 0.007, respectively) and recovered on d2. FEV1 and FVC mean values were also found significantly decreased on d1 after MT compared to baseline (p < 0.0001 and p = 0.0003, respectively) and recovered on d2. Patients with pleurodesis presented with lower mean values of the studied parameters than those with diagnostic thoracoscopy. No significant complication was associated with the procedure. Conclusion: Respiratory muscles and lung function can be temporarily affected from MT. Physicians should be alert, especially in patients with already impaired lung function, where any further impairment could be detrimental.
Smooth Muscle Cells Orchestrate the Endothelial Cell Response to Flow and Injury
Authors: Balcells Mercedes , Martorell Jordi , Olivé Carla , Santacana Marina , Chitalia Vipul , Cardoso Angelo A. , Edelman Elazer R.
Published: May 2010

Background—

Local modulation of vascular mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling reduces smooth muscle cell (SMC) proliferation after endovascular interventions but may be associated with endothelial cell (EC) toxicity. The trilaminate vascular architecture juxtaposes ECs and SMCs to enable complex paracrine coregulation but shields SMCs from flow. We hypothesized that flow differentially affects mTOR signaling in ECs and SMCs and that SMCs regulate mTOR in ECs.

Methods and Results—

SMCs and/or ECs were exposed to coronary artery flow in a perfusion bioreactor. We demonstrated by flow cytometry, immunofluorescence, and immunoblotting that EC expression of phospho-S6 ribosomal protein (p-S6RP), a downstream target of mTOR, was doubled by flow. Conversely, S6RP in SMCs was growth factor but not flow responsive, and SMCs eliminated the flow sensitivity of ECs. Temsirolimus, a sirolimus analog, eliminated the effect of growth factor on SMCs and of flow on ECs, reducing p-S6RP below basal levels and inhibiting endothelial recovery. EC p-S6RP expression in stented porcine arteries confirmed our in vitro findings: Phosphorylation was greatest in ECs farthest from intact SMCs in metal stented arteries and altogether absent after sirolimus stent elution.

Conclusions—

The mTOR pathway is activated in ECs in response to luminal flow. SMCs inhibit this flow-induced stimulation of endothelial mTOR pathway. Thus, we now define a novel external stimulus regulating phosphorylation of S6RP and another level of EC-SMC crosstalk. These interactions may explain the impact of local antiproliferative delivery that targets SMC proliferation and suggest that future stents integrate design influences on flow and drug effects on their molecular targets.
Prelamin A Acts to Accelerate Smooth Muscle Cell Senescence and Is a Novel Biomarker of Human Vascular Aging
Authors: Ragnauth Cassandra D. , Warren Derek T. , Liu Yiwen , McNair Rosamund , Tajsic Tamara , Figg Nichola , Shroff Rukshana , Skepper Jeremy , Shanahan Catherine M.
Published: May 2010

Background—

Hutchinson-Gilford progeria syndrome is a rare inherited disorder of premature aging caused by mutations in
LMNA
or
Zmpste24
that disrupt nuclear lamin A processing, leading to the accumulation of prelamin A. Patients develop severe premature arteriosclerosis characterized by vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) calcification and attrition.

Methods and Results—

To determine whether defective lamin A processing is associated with vascular aging in the normal population, we examined the profile of lamin A expression in normal and aged VSMCs. In vitro, aged VSMCs rapidly accumulated prelamin A coincidently with nuclear morphology defects, and these defects were reversible by treatment with farnesylation inhibitors and statins. In human arteries, prelamin A accumulation was not observed in young healthy vessels but was prevalent in medial VSMCs from aged individuals and in atherosclerotic lesions, where it often colocalized with senescent and degenerate VSMCs. Prelamin A accumulation correlated with downregulation of the lamin A processing enzyme Zmpste24/FACE1, and FACE1 mRNA and protein levels were reduced in response to oxidative stress. Small interfering RNA knockdown of FACE1 reiterated the prelamin A–induced nuclear morphology defects characteristic of aged VSMCs, and overexpression of prelamin A accelerated VSMC senescence. We show that prelamin A acts to disrupt mitosis and induce DNA damage in VSMCs, leading to mitotic failure, genomic instability, and premature senescence.

Conclusions—

This study shows that prelamin A is a novel biomarker of VSMC aging and disease that acts to accelerate senescence. It therefore represents a novel target to ameliorate the effects of age-induced vascular dysfunction.
Whole-Grain, Cereal Fiber, Bran, and Germ Intake and the Risks of All-Cause and Cardiovascular Disease–Specific Mortality Among Women With Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: He Meian , van Dam Rob M. , Rimm Eric , Hu Frank B. , Qi Lu
Published: May 2010

Background—

Although whole-grain consumption has been associated with a lower risk of cardiovascular diseases (CVD) and mortality in the general population, the association of whole grain with mortality in diabetic patients remains to be determined. This study investigated whole grain and its components cereal fiber, bran, and germ in relation to all-cause and CVD-specific mortality in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Methods and Results—

We followed 7822 US women with type 2 diabetes mellitus in the Nurses’ Health Study. Dietary intakes and potential confounders were assessed with regularly administered questionnaires. We documented 852 all-cause deaths and 295 CVD deaths during up to 26 years of follow-up. After adjustment for age, the highest versus the lowest fifths of intakes of whole grain, cereal fiber, bran, and germ were associated with 16% to 31% lower all-cause mortality. After further adjustment for lifestyle and dietary risk factors, only the association for bran intake remained significant (
P
for trend=0.01). The multivariate relative risks across the fifths of bran intake were 1.0 (reference), 0.94 (0.75 to 1.18), 0.80 (0.64 to 1.01), 0.82 (0.65 to 1.04), and 0.72 (0.56 to 0.92). Similarly, bran intake was inversely associated with CVD-specific mortality (
P
for trend=0.04). The relative risks across the fifths of bran intake were 1.0 (reference), 0.95 (0.66 to 1.38), 0.80 (0.55 to 1.16), 0.76 (0.51 to 1.14), and 0.65 (0.43 to 0.99). Similar results were observed for added bran alone.

Conclusions—

Whole-grain and bran intakes were associated with reduced all-cause and CVD-specific mortality in women with diabetes mellitus. These findings suggest a potential benefit of whole-grain intake in reducing mortality and cardiovascular risk in diabetic patients.
Left Ventricular Mass
Authors: Chirinos Julio A. , Segers Patrick , De Buyzere Marc L. , Kronmal Richard A. , Raja Muhammad W. , De Bacquer Dirk , Claessens Tom , Gillebert Thierry C. , St. John-Sutton Martin , Rietzschel Ernst R.
Published: May 2010

The need for left ventricular mass (LVM) normalization to body size is well recognized. Currently used allometric exponents to normalize LVM may not account for the confounding effect of sex. Because sex is a strong determinant of body size and LVM, we hypothesized that these are subject to potential bias. We analyzed data from 7528 subjects enrolled in the Asklepios Study (n=2524) and the Multiethnic Study of Atherosclerosis (limited access data set; n=5,004) to assess metric relationships between LVM and body size, generate normative data for indexed LVM, and compare the ability of normalization methods to predict cardiovascular events. The allometric exponent that adequately described the LVM-body height relationship was 1.7 in both studies and significantly different from both the unity and 2.7, whereas the LVM-body surface area relationship was approximately linear. LVM/height
2.7
consistently demonstrated important residual relationships with body height and systematically misclassified subjects regarding the presence of LVH. LVH defined by LVM/height
1.7
was more sensitive than LVM/body surface area to identify obesity-related LVH and was most consistently associated with cardiovascular events and all-cause death. In contrast to current assumptions, LVM/height
2.7
is not an adequate method to normalize LVM for body size. We provide more appropriate normalization methods, normative data by 2D echocardiography and gradient-echo cardiac MRI, and cutoffs for defining LVH, along with prognostic validation data.
Expression of Angiotensin Type 1A Receptors in C1 Neurons Restores the Sympathoexcitation to Angiotensin in the Rostral Ventrolateral Medulla of Angiotensin Type 1A Knockout Mice
Authors: Chen Daian , Bassi Jaspreet K. , Walther Thomas , Thomas Walter G. , Allen Andrew M.
Published: May 2010

In adult mice we determined whether expression of angiotensin II (Ang II) type 1A receptors (AT
1A
Rs) in C1 neurons mediates the excitation of the rostral ventrolateral medulla (RVLM) by Ang II. Blood pressure, heart rate, and sympathetic nerve activity were measured in anesthetized, artificially ventilated wild-type (n=15) and AT
1A
R knockout (AT
1A
−/−
; n=9) mice. Microinjection of Ang II (50 nL of 0.1 to 1.0 mmol/L) into the RVLM induced a dose-related, sympathetically mediated pressor response (maximum of 17±2 mm Hg) in wild-type mice. These microinjections had no effect in AT
1A
−/−
mice. Endogenous AT
1
Rs occur on catecholaminergic C1 neurons in the RVLM. We induced AT
1A
R or green fluorescent protein expression in C1 neurons of AT
1A
−/−
mice through bilateral microinjection of replication-deficient lentiviruses, with transgene expression under the control of a
phox2
transcription factor binding promoter (PRSx8) (Lv-PRSx8-AT
1A
, n=10, and Lv-PRSx8-GFP, n=5). Transgene expression was observed in a significant proportion of RVLM C1 neurons. In anesthetized Lv-PRSx8-AT
1A
injected mice, unilateral RVLM microinjection of Ang II (50 nL of 1 mmol/L) increased blood pressure (17±4 mm Hg) and sympathetic nerve activity (155±32%). No response to Ang II occurred in Lv-PRSx8-GFP microinjected mice. These results show that Ang II–mediated excitation of RVLM neurons in adult mice depends on the AT
1A
R with little or no effect of type 1B or 2 receptors. Expression of the AT
1A
R predominantly in C1 catecholamine neurons restores the response to Ang II in the AT
1A
−/−
mouse and demonstrates that these neurons are sympathoexcitatory in the mouse.
From Prestimulus Alpha Oscillation to Visual-evoked Response: An Inverted-U Function and Its Attentional Modulation
Authors: Rajagovindan Rajasimhan , Ding Mingzhou
Published: May 2010

Understanding the relation between prestimulus neural activity and subsequent stimulus processing has become an area of active investigation. Computational modeling, as well as in vitro and in vivo single-unit recordings in animal preparations, have explored mechanisms by which background synaptic activity can influence the responsiveness of cortical neurons to afferent input. How these mechanisms manifest in humans is not well understood. Although numerous EEG/MEG studies have considered the role of prestimulus alpha oscillations in the genesis of visual-evoked potentials, no consensus has emerged, and divergent reports continue to appear. The present work addresses this problem in three stages. First, a theoretical model was developed in which the background synaptic activity and the firing rate of a neural ensemble are related through a sigmoidal function. The derivative of this function, referred to as local gain, has an inverted-U shape and is postulated to be proportional to the trial-by-trial response evoked by a transient stimulus. Second, the theoretical model was extended to noninvasive studies of human visual processing, where the model variables are reinterpreted in terms of ongoing EEG oscillations and event-related potentials. Predictions were derived from the model and tested by recording high-density scalp EEG from healthy volunteers performing a trial-by-trial cued spatial visual attention task. Finally, enhanced stimulus processing by attention was linked to an increase in the overall slope of the sigmoidal function. The commonly observed reduction of alpha magnitude with attention was interpreted as signaling a shift of the underlying neural ensemble toward an optimal excitability state that enables the increase in global gain.
Individualism, Collectivism, Client Expression, and Counselor Effectiveness Among South Korean International Students
Authors: Seo Young Seok
Published: May 2010

The present study examined how individualism, collectivism, and counselor emphasis of client expression (cognition vs. emotion) are related to perceived counselor effectiveness among South Korean international students. Data were collected through mail surveys from 127 South Korean international students attending a Midwestern university. As hypothesized, results from a hierarchical multiple regression analysis demonstrated that the participants perceived the counselor who emphasized the expression of client emotion as more effective than the counselor emphasizing the expression of client cognition. Contrary to expectations, however, the interactions between cultural variables and counselor emphasis of client expression were not significantly predictive of perceived counselor effectiveness. Implications for counseling practice and future research are discussed.
Potential issues in field practicum student exchange between Korea and the USA
Authors: Hyong Suk Yeom  , Bae Hwa-ok
Published: May 2010

This study finds sufficient similarities between Korea and the USA to allow for field practicum student exchanges. It aims to promote such exchanges by offering suggestions for dealing with discrepancies and special problems, and to encourage a constructive analysis of westernized practices and indigenous needs.
The changing context of China: Emerging issues for school social work practice
Authors: Levine Kathryn A. , Kai Zhu
Published: May 2010

This article provides a contextualized analysis of the ways in which school social workers may address the impact of economic, social and political challenges as they will be experienced by the children of mainland China, and how the profession of school social work may serve to ameliorate the negative effects on children as they transition through these developments.
How is street life? An examination of the subjective wellbeing of street children in China
Authors: Fucai Cheng  , Lam Debbie
Published: May 2010

Street life significantly reduced the street children’s subjective wellbeing (SWB), which was lower than those of regular people. The level of self-esteem played a moderating role in their life satisfaction and positive affect. This study shows the significance of providing life necessities and psychological counseling to the street children.
Functions of social work supervision in Shenzhen: Insights from the cross-border supervision model
Authors: Suet Lin Hung  , Shui Lai Ng  , Kwok Kin Fung
Published: May 2010

Based on the findings of an evaluation study on the first two phases of a cross-the-border supervision service project performed by a Hong Kong non-governmental organization, this paper sheds light on the nature of social work supervision in Shenzhen and the constraints of cross-the-border supervision.
Perceived stigma and coping strategies among Asians with schizophrenia: The Singapore case
Authors: Yow Terence S. , Mehta Kalyani
Published: May 2010

Persons with schizophrenia in Singapore suffer from lower perceived stigma compared with the USA and Canada. Secrecy is the most highly endorsed coping strategy and educating others is the least endorsed. This reflects Singapore patients’ preference to hide their illness and their lack of self-advocating compared with their western counterparts.
Beyond empowerment: Changing local communities
Authors: Jönsson Jessica H.
Published: May 2010

This article critically analyses empowerment projects in a local community in southern India and explores the shortcomings of development projects aimed at changing living conditions of marginalized people. It is argued that international social work should move beyond established empowerment theories and practices and include combating structural barriers in an emancipatory manner.
Creating a safe haven in Pakistan
Authors: Critelli Filomena M. , Willett Jennifer
Published: May 2010

A case study of a women’s shelter in Pakistan is described, using in-depth interviews with the founders and staff. This article examines how a shelter program based on a human rights framework operates in the Pakistani cultural context. Findings demonstrate the considerable challenges faced by the organization, especially in reintegrating women back into society, as well as growing acceptance of shelter programs and women’s right to make life choices as a result of the organization’s work.
Auditory Processing and Early Literacy Skills in a Preschool and Kindergarten Population
Authors: Corriveau Kathleen H. , Goswami Usha , Thomson Jennifer M.
Published: May 2010

Although the relationship between auditory processing and reading-related skills has been investigated in school-age populations and in prospective studies of infants, understanding of the relationship between these variables in the period immediately preceding formal reading instruction is sparse. In this cross-sectional study, auditory processing, phonological awareness, early literacy skills, and general ability were assessed in a mixed sample of 88 three- to six-year-old children both cross-sectionally and longitudinally. Results from both cross-sectional and longitudinal analyses suggest the importance of early auditory rise time sensitivity in developing phonological awareness skills, especially in the development of rhyme awareness.
Functionalization of Polyester Fabric by Ar/N2 Plasma and Silver
Authors: Gorenšek Marija , Gorjanc Marija , Bukošek Vili , Kovač Janez , Petrović Zoran , Puač Nevena
Published: May 2010

The objective of this research was to use Ar/N2 (50%:50%) plasma to increase the adhesion of nano silver particles to raw polyester fabric. RUCO-BAC AGP was applied using the exhaust method. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy revealed differences in surface composition between the Ar/N2 plasma-treated and untreated raw fabrics. The Ar/N2 plasma treatment was found to increase the surface carbon concentration and decrease the concentration of C-O and O-C=O groups on the surface. After plasma etching, the specific surface of the polyester fabric and properties related to it were found to change significantly. This change was confirmed by a decrease in the whiteness index and an increase in the dyeability of the polyester fabric with disperse dye. Morphological changes in the surface of plasma-treated polyester fabric enabled greater adhesion of nano silver particles and increased the antimicrobial effect with respect to Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli and Streptococcus faecalis.
Effects of Laundering and Water Temperature on the Properties of Silk and Silk-blend Knitted Fabrics
Authors: Van Amber Rebecca R. , Niven Brian E. , Wilson Cheryl A.
Published: May 2010

The objective of this work was to review the properties of selected specialty protein fiber knit fabrics suitable for everyday wear. Selected properties (dimensional stability to laundering, mass, thickness, and stitches per centimeter) of three commercially available fabrics were measured when new and after each laundering cycle (1—6). The silk and silk-blend fabrics achieved dimensional stability by six laundering cycles. Fabric properties differed with the number of laundering cycles, fabric color, and fabric type. Although water temperature affected the pattern of change of some properties, it had no overall effect on properties of the stabilized fabrics. However, examination of new and washed fabric using scanning electron microscopy suggested fibrillation and degradation of silk fibers may be affected by laundering.
Does the Effect of Self-Control On Adolescent Offending Vary By Level of Morality?
Authors: Svensson Robert , Pauwels Lieven , Weerman Frank M.
Published: May 2010

This study examines whether morality and self-control have an interactional effect on offending. Drawing from the situational action theory, the authors hypothesize that self-control has a more important effect on offending for individuals with low levels of morality than for individuals with high levels of morality. To test this hypothesis, self-report data were used from three independent samples of young adolescents in Antwerp, Belgium ( N = 2,486); Halmstad, Sweden ( N = 1,003); and South-Holland, the Netherlands ( N = 1,978). The findings provide strong support for the hypothesis that the effect of self-control on offending is dependent on the individual’s level of morality. The similarity of the results across three independent samples suggests that the findings are robust among different cultural backgrounds and among studies with different operationalizations of the central concepts of interest.
The Mexican Coffee Crisis
Authors: Renard Marie-Christine
Published: May 2010

The Mexican coffee crisis that began with the liberalization of the international coffee market in 1989 led to the reorganization of the coffee sector under the control of transnational companies after state regulation has been replaced by policies aimed at allowing the survival of the small producers but not reactivating the sector. The resistance of the powerful roaster industry, dominated by the giant Nestlé, has made it impossible to improve the quality of the coffee sold on the domestic market, and its importation of cheap robusta coffee for use in instant preparations has further reduced prices. The survival of the producer cooperatives depends on their capacity to enter the market through niches such as the organic and Fair Trade, where they receive a better price for their products. For the others, the only solution is to migrate to the North.
The International Coffee Agreement and the Production of Coffee in Guatemala, 1962—1989
Authors: Johnson David Conrad
Published: May 2010

From 1962 to 1989, the coffee-producing and coffee-consuming nations created a commodity agreement limiting the amount of coffee a nation could export in order to correct two structural deficiencies: global overproduction of coffee and drastic price movements associated with weather-related phenomena. During the 27 years of this quota agreement, Guatemala had a unique opportunity to get farmers to diversify from coffee to other export commodities and allow farmers to use new technology to improve their profitability. The Asociación Nacional del Café (ANACAFE) administered these diversification and technification programs, while the London-based International Coffee Organization (ICO) regulated the international coffee trade. However, the ICO achieved more success in reducing overproduction of coffee and stopping downward price movements than ANACAFE did in implementing diversification and technification. Because ANACAFE failed to disseminate technification to the vast majority of the small coffee-producers, when the ICO allowed quotas to expire in 1989 the vast majority of the Guatemalan coffee growers found themselves not as price-competitive as their Central American neighbors.
Costa Rica’s Response to the Coffee Crisis
Authors: Samper Mario
Published: May 2010

Coffee growers and processing firms in Costa Rica have developed a broad range of strategies since 1989 to face successive market crises, instability, and relatively somber or at least very uncertain prospects. Individual decisions have often been combined into complex household-level, collective, and corporate strategies with widely differing outcomes and degrees of success. Results attained by smallholders, cooperatives, and private firms must be understood in the context of the overall behavior of the coffee sector in this country and the historical experience of coffee producers.
Multilayer Stretchable Conductors with a Large Tensile Strength
Authors: Takshi Arash , Madden John D.
Published: May 2010

A metallic conductor layer on an elastomeric substrate has a limited stretchability. Application of a conductive rubber layer underneath the metal can enhance the flexibility and preserve the electrical connection even at high strains. Silicone and polydimethyl siloxane (PDMS) have been tested as elastic substrates. A repeatable resistance-strain behavior up to 100% strain is achieved for a multilayer conductor with PDMS substrate. It is found that this type of substrate has a large influence on the size of cracks on the metal layer.
Going Hungry for a Purpose: On Gos. Thom. 69.2 and a Neglected Parallel in Origen
Authors: Witetschek Stephan
Published: May 2010

Logion 69.2 of the Gospel of Thomas is quite similar to its parallels in Mt. 5.6 and Lk. 6.21a, the beatitude for the hungry, except for one detail: while in the Synoptic Gospels, the second part of the logion is a causal clause, in the Gospel of Thomas it is a purpose clause. If this twist of grammar is taken seriously, Gos. Thom. 69.2 finds material parallels in a range of early Christian texts that speak of fasting for the benefit of others. There may even be an otherwise neglected connection to a very similar macarism preserved in Origen’s Homilies on Leviticus (10.2) that is sometimes classified as an Agraphon
Susannah Heschel’s The Aryan Jesus: A Response
Authors: Head Peter
Published: May 2010

This appreciative and critical review briefly summarizes the contents of Susannah Heschel’s book, The Aryan Jesus and probes four areas of engagement and disagreement with Heschel: the incomplete portrayal of Grundmann, the question of the influence of Grundmann and his Institute, the question of the common elements of anti-Judaism shared by the Confessing Church and the German Christians, and the nature of Christianity itself.
Susannah Heschel’s Aryan Grundmann
Authors: Morgan Robert
Published: May 2010

This discussion of The Aryan Jesus (2008) welcomes its combating all antisemitism but questions whether it sufficiently distinguishes that from an also deplorable theological anti-Judaism. Heschel’s account of the Eisenach Institute (1939—42), which aimed to de-Judaize German Christianity, provides a one-sided impression of 1930s German church history. The book’s broader thesis that Christianity is racist depends on a failure to distinguish clearly between the churches and the völkisch movement that stands behind Nazi antisemitism. Criticisms made of individual biblical scholars confirm the responsibility to counter an anti-Judaism that was bound to fuel modern secular antisemitism. Both are different from the Christian antisemitism prevalent in the Middle Ages.
Paul and the Law: What he Does not Say
Authors: Rosner Brian S.
Published: May 2010

As Betz observed in 1979, Paul never says that Christians are supposed to ‘do’ the Torah. This article seeks to develop the argument of omission in relation to Paul and the law. What else does he not say? According to Rom. 2.17-29, Jews ‘rely on’ the law, ‘boast’ in the law, know God’s will through the law, are educated in the law, have light, knowledge and truth because of the law, are to ‘do’, ‘observe’ and ‘keep’ the law, on occasions ‘transgress’ the law, and possess the law as a ‘written code’. Not only does Paul not say these things about Christians vis-à-vis the law, he shifts the focus from the law to something else using the same words and concepts. Such omission and substitution suggests that the Law of Moses holds a very different place for Jews than for Christians in Paul’s thought.
Ultrasonic diagnoses of melting and degradation of poly(ethylene terephthalate)
Authors: Lijuan Zhao  , Zhigang Sun  , Tatibouët Jacques , Jen Cheng-kuei
Published: May 2010

The melting and thermo-mechanical degradation of poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET) samples with different moisture levels were investigated in an internal mixer under different processing conditions. The investigation used an ultrasonic diagnosis system and a torque rheometer. The experiment results showed that: 1) a PET sample with a lower humidity level was more stable than that having higher water content under the same processing conditions; 2) higher temperatures and blade speeds accelerated melting and degradation rates. However, the transition point from a partially melted state of a PET sample to a completely melted state could only be identified by ultrasound and the onset of degradation was evident from the ultrasonic measurement as opposed to the torque measurement.
National Narratives in the Opening and Closing Ceremonies of the Athens 2004 Olympic Games
Authors: Traganou Jilly
Published: May 2010

By focusing on the cases of the Athens 2004 Olympic ceremonies, this article interrogates insular representations of the nation that are commonly nurtured by Olympic narratives. In particular, the article discusses the ways in which the Athens 2004 ceremonies articulated aspects of history, topography, and constituency in relation with Greece’s present as well as with its past. By also locating instances that contest the perception of national identity as an overarching, unique, and pure entity, the article argues that the Olympics might be seen not as opportunities to elevate a nation’s prestige, as it is hoped by many, but rather for making visible alternative identities and renewed national narratives that stretch the conceptual boundaries of the nation and its relation with Others.
“Woolmergate”: Cricket and the Representation of Islam and Muslims in the British Press
Authors: Malcolm Dominic , Bairner Alan , Curry Graham
Published: May 2010

This article illustrates how the media represent Islam and Muslims in the post-9/11 context through an examination of British newspaper coverage of the death of Pakistan coach Bob Woolmer at the 2007 Cricket World Cup. The article argues that key elements of the cultural stereotyping of Islam and Muslims identified in Said’s Orientalism—namely, violence, irrationality, and backwardness—were reproduced. These ideas stem from, and reinforce, a narrative of absolute and systematic difference between the East and the West. Thus, representations of Islam and Muslims in sport-related coverage, just as in “mainstream” reporting, tend to be negative and hostile. The article further argues that such representation has become more homogeneous and more heavily focused on religion and terrorism post-9/11 and that uniform and uncritical portrayals are particularly likely to appear in the seemingly apolitical context of sport-related issues.
Bourdieu, Gender Reflexivity, and Physical Culture: A Case of Masculinities in the Snowboarding Field
Authors: Thorpe Holly
Published: May 2010

This article contributes to recent debates between supporters of the concept of hegemonic masculinity, as exemplified by R. W. Connell, and a new generation of gender scholars, as to how best explain the dynamic and fluid relationships between men, and men and women, in the early 21st century. Here, the author concurs with many of Connell’s critics and proceeds by arguing that recent feminist extensions of Bourdieu’s original conceptual schema—field, capital, habitus, and practice—may help reveal more nuanced conceptualizations of masculinities, and male gender reflexivity, in contemporary sport and physical culture. This author examines the potential of such an approach via an analysis of masculinities in the snowboarding field. In so doing, this article not only offers fresh insights into the masculine identities and interactions in the snowboarding field but also contributes to recent debates about how best to explain different generations and cultural experiences of masculinities.
Peace beyond Process?
Authors: Mitchell Audra
Published: May 2010

Post-Cold War peacebuilding is increasingly conflated with the smooth functioning of a range of processes associated with democracy, governance, development and securitisation. However, critiques of these approaches tend to focus on their liberal-democratic norms and to ignore their underlying processual logics. This article problematises two facets of process with regard to peacebuilding: its postulation as a basis for peace grounded in everyday human activity and its construction of violence as anti-process. Its goal is to present the critique of process as a means for understanding the complex relationship between international and local actors in the context of peacebuilding, thus enriching the ‘liberal peace’ debate. Drawing on normative political theory, including that of Arendt and Deleuze and Guattari, the article demonstrates how the problems raised by these two issues can help to explain a range of concerns associated with contemporary peacebuilding and provide starting points for imagining forms of peace that are not so reliant upon processual logics or opposed to those acts which disrupt them, which may in fact be attempts to realise radically different versions of peace. In so doing, it extends and enriches the perspectives offered by existing ‘liberal peace’ critiques.