bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impaired and preserved aspects of independent finger control in patients with cerebellar damage
Authors: Brandauer B. , Hermsdörfer J. , Geißendörfer T. , Schoch B. , Gizewski E. R. , Timmann D.
Published: November 2011

The influence of the cerebellum on independent finger control has rarely been investigated. We examined multidigit control in 22 patients with cerebellar degeneration, 20 patients with cerebellar stroke, and 21 patients with surgical lesions after cerebellar tumor removal. In the first task, either the index finger or the middle finger was actively lifted from an object during static holding. Both controls and cerebellar patients increased the forces of the nearby digits in synchrony with lift-off to maintain the total finger force. Patients used increased finger forces but showed no significant deficits in the pattern and timing of rearrangement of finger forces. In the second task, subjects had to press and release one finger against a force-sensitive keypad with the other fingers being inactive. All patient groups showed increased force production of the noninstructed (enslaved) fingers compared with controls. Lesion-symptom mapping in the focal patients revealed that lesions of the superior hand area were related to abnormal levels of enslaving. Increased finger forces in the finger-lifting task likely reflect an unspecific safety strategy. Increased effects of enslaving in the individuated key-press task, however, may be explained by a deterioration of cerebellar contribution to feedforward commands necessary to suppress activity in noninstructed fingers or by increased spread of the motor command intended for the instructed finger. Despite the large and diverse patient sample, surprisingly few abnormalities were observed. Both holding an object and finger typing are overlearned, automatized motor tasks, which may not or little depend on the integrity of the cerebellum.
Ocular dryness excites two classes of corneal afferent neurons implicated in basal tearing in rats: involvement of transient receptor potential channels
Authors: Hirata Harumitsu , Oshinsky Michael L.
Published: November 2011

This study reports the findings of two classes of corneal afferents excited by drying of the cornea (dry responses) in isoflurane-anesthetized rats: cold-sensitive (CS; 87%) and cold-insensitive (CI; 13%) neurons. Compared with CI neurons, CS neurons showed significantly higher firing rates over warmer corneal temperatures (∼31–15°C) and greater responses to menthol, drying, and wetting of the cornea but lower responses when hyperosmolar solutions were applied to the ocular surface. We proposed that the dry responses of these corneal afferents derive from cooling and an increased osmolarity of the ocular surface, leading to the production of basal tears. An ocular application of the transient receptor potential channel TRPM8 antagonist BCTC (20 μM) decreased the dry responses by ∼45–80% but failed to completely block them, whereas the TRPA1 antagonist HC030031 did not influence the responses to drying of the cornea or hyperosmolar tears. Furthermore, the responses produced by cold stimulation of the cornea accounted for only 28% of the dry responses. These results support the view that the stimulus for basal tearing (corneal dryness) derives partly from cooling of the cornea that activates TRPM8 channels but that non-TRPM8 channels also contribute significantly to the dry responses and to basal tearing. Finally, we hypothesized that activation of TRPM8 by cooling in CS corneal afferents not only gives rise to the sensation of ocular coolness but also to the “wetness” perception (Thunberg's illusion), whereas a precise role of the CI afferents in basal tearing and other ocular dryness-related functions such as eye blink and the “dryness” sensation remain to be elucidated.
Birth Defects in Singleton versus Multiple ART Births in Japan (2004–2008)
Authors: Ooki Syuichi
Published: November 2011

The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the relative risk (RR) of multiple births for birth defects after assisted reproductive technology (ART) using Japanese nationwide data from 2004 to 2008 with singletons as the reference group. In multiples compared to singletons, the percentage of birth defects per pregnancy were significantly higher (RR = 1.88, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.60–2.13), the percentage of birth defects per live birth was not significantly higher (RR = 0.90, 95% CI 0.78–1.05 or RR = 0.94, 95% CI 0.81–1.10), and the early neonatal mortality rate was significantly higher (RR = 2.68, 95% CI 1.52–4.70 or RR = 2.80, 95% CI 1.60–4.92). The early neonatal mortality per 10,000 live births was slightly higher in ART (5.09) than in the general population (3.86). We concluded that the impact of birth defects after ART would be larger in families with multiples compared to families with singletons, since the mean number of children would be larger in the former.
Oxidative Stress in Neurodegenerative Diseases: Mechanisms and Therapeutic Perspectives
Authors: Melo Ailton , Monteiro Larissa , Lima Rute M. F. , de Oliveira Diêgo M. , de Cerqueira Martins D. , El-Bachá Ramon S.
Published: November 2011

The incidence and prevalence of neurodegenerative diseases (ND) increase with life expectancy. This paper reviews the role of oxidative stress (OS) in ND and pharmacological attempts to fight against reactive oxygen species (ROS)-induced neurodegeneration. Several mechanisms involved in ROS generation in neurodegeneration have been proposed. Recent articles about molecular pathways involved in ROS generation were reviewed. The progress in the development of neuroprotective therapies has been hampered because it is difficult to define targets for treatment and determine what should be considered as neuroprotective. Therefore, the attention was focused on researches about pharmacological targets that could protect neurons against OS. Since it is necessary to look for genes as the ultimate controllers of all biological processes, this paper also tried to identify gerontogenes involved in OS and neurodegeneration. Since neurons depend on glial cells to survive, recent articles about the functioning of these cells in aging and ND were also reviewed. Finally, clinical trials testing potential neuroprotective agents were critically reviewed. Although several potential drugs have been screened inin vitroandin vivomodels of ND, these results were not translated in benefit of patients, and disappointing results were obtained in the majority of clinical trials.
Effect of Long-Term Climbing Training on Cerebellar Ataxia: A Case Series
Authors: Marianne Anke Stephan , Sylvie Krattinger , Jérôme Pasquier , Shahid Bashir , Thomas Fournier , Dieter Georg Ruegg , Karin Diserens
Published: November 2011

Background. Efficient therapy for both limb and gait ataxia is required. Climbing, a complex task for the whole motor system involving balance, body stabilization, and the simultaneous coordination of all 4 limbs, may have therapeutic potential.Objective. To investigate whether long-term climbing training improves motor function in patients with cerebellar ataxia.Methods. Four patients suffering from limb and gait ataxia underwent a 6-week climbing training. Its effect on ataxia was evaluated with validated clinical balance and manual dexterity tests and with a kinematic analysis of multijoint arm and leg pointing movements.Results. The patients increased their movement velocity and achieved a more symmetric movement speed profile in both arm and leg pointing movements. Furthermore, the 2 patients who suffered the most from gait ataxia improved their balance and 2 of the 4 patients improved manual dexterity.Conclusion. Climbing training has the potential to serve as a new rehabilitation method for patients with upper and lower limb ataxia.
Aquatic Exercise Programs for Children and Adolescents with Cerebral Palsy: What Do We Know and Where Do We Go?
Authors: Gorter J. W. , Currie S. J.
Published: November 2011

Aquatic exercise programs may be a beneficial form of therapy for children and adolescents with cerebral palsy (CP), particularly for those with significant movement limitations where land-based physical activity is difficult. The most recently published systematic review (2005) on aquatic interventions in children with CP found supportive but insufficient evidence on its effectiveness. The aim of this paper is to review recently published literature since 2005 with a focus on aquatic exercise for children with CP. In total, six new studies were published with a main focus on aerobic aquatic interventions in higher functioning children and adolescents with CP. Swimming is one of the most frequently reported physical activities in children and adolescents with CP. Therefore, information on its safety and benefits is highly needed, for those with more severe CP in particular. Research design issues are discussed to help guide future research and practice.
On the Coevolution of Transposable Elements and Plant Genomes
Authors: Civáň Peter , Švec Miroslav , Hauptvogel Pavol
Published: November 2011

Plant genomes are unique in an intriguing feature: the range of their size variation is unprecedented among living organisms. Although polyploidization contributes to this variability, transposable elements (TEs) seem to play the pivotal role. TEs, often considered intragenomic parasites, not only affect the genome size of the host, but also interact with other genes, disrupting and creating new functions and regulatory networks. Coevolution of plant genomes and TEs has led to tight regulation of TE activity, and growing evidence suggests their relationship became mutualistic. Although the expansions of TEs represent certain costs for the host genomes, they may also bring profits for populations, helping to overcome challenging environmental (biotic/abiotic stress) or genomic (hybridization and allopolyploidization) conditions. In this paper, we discuss the possibility that the possession of inducible TEs may provide a selective advantage for various plant populations.
Contrast and Synergy between Electrocatalysis and Heterogeneous Catalysis
Authors: Wieckowski Andrzej , Neurock Matthew
Published: November 2011

The advances in spectroscopy and theory that have occurred over the past two decades begin to provide detailed in situ resolution of the molecular transformations that occur at both gas/metal as well as aqueous/metal interfaces. These advances begin to allow for a more direct comparison of heterogeneous catalysis and electrocatalysis. Such comparisons become important, as many of the current energy conversion strategies involve catalytic and electrocatalytic processes that occur at fluid/solid interfaces and display very similar characteristics. Herein, we compare and contrast a few different catalytic and electrocatalytic systems to elucidate the principles that cross‐cut both areas and establish characteristic differences between the two with the hope of advancing both areas.
Impact of Baseline BMI upon the Success of Latina Participants Enrolled in a 6-Month Physical Activity Intervention
Authors: Hartman Sheri J. , Dunsiger Shira I. , Pekmezi Dori W. , Barbera Brooke , Neighbors Charles J. , Marquez Becky , Marcus Bess H.
Published: November 2011

High rates of obesity in Latinas highlight the need to determine if physical activity interventions are equally effective across the body mass index (BMI) range. Thus, this study assessed how BMI impacts success of Spanish-speaking Latinas in a culturally and linguistically adapted theory-based physical activity intervention (). Longitudinal regression models tested the relationship between baseline BMI and outcomes. Overall, a trend for a negative association was found between baseline BMI and self-reported physical activity and theoretical constructs targeted by the intervention over time. For example, someone with a 25 kg/m2BMI would report, on average, 27.5 more minutes/week of activity compared to someone with a 30 kg/m2BMI at followup. Furthermore, higher baseline BMI was significantly associated with lower self-efficacy, behavioral and cognitive processes of change, and family social support over time. These findings suggest that participants with higher BMI may need additional intervention to promote physical activity.
Oncogenic HPV Types Infection in Adolescents and University Women from North Portugal: From Self-Sampling to Cancer Prevention
Authors: Silva Jani , Ribeiro Joana , Sousa Hugo , Cerqueira Fátima , Teixeira Ana Luisa , Baldaque Ines , Osório Teresa , Medeiros Rui
Published: November 2011

This study aimed to characterize the HPV infection status in adolescents and young university women in Portugal. The distribution of HPV genotypes was evaluated by PCR DNA genotyping after self-sampling collection from 435 women of exfoliated cervical cells using a commercial kit. We observed an overall frequency of HPV infection of 11.5%. Furthermore, HPV DNA prevalence was 16.6% in those young women that self-declared as sexually active. The more frequently detected HPV types were 31, 16, 53, and 61. Statistical analysis identified median age (OR=3.56;P=0.001), the number of lifetime sexual partners (OR=4.50;P<0.001), and years of sexual activity (OR=2.36;P=0.008) as risk factors for HPV acquisition. Hence, our study revealed that oncogenic HPV infection is common in young asymptomatic women Portuguese women, with a history of 2–5 sexual partners and over 2 year of sexual activity. Moreover, these results demonstrate that HPV detection performed in self-collected samples may be important to appraise better preventive strategies and to monitorize the influence of vaccination programmes within different populations.
Differential Impact of Stress Reduction Programs upon Ambulatory Blood Pressure among African American Adolescents: Influences of Endothelin-1 Gene and Chronic Stress Exposure
Authors: Gregoski Mathew J. , Barnes Vernon A. , Tingen Martha S. , Dong Yanbin , Zhu Haidong , Treiber Frank A.
Published: November 2011

Stress-activated gene × environment interactions may contribute to individual variability in blood pressure reductions from behavioral interventions. We investigated effects of endothelin-1 (ET-1) LYS198ASN SNP and discriminatory stress exposure upon impact of 12-week behavioral interventions upon ambulatory BP (ABP) among 162 prehypertensive African American adolescents. Following genotyping, completion of questionnaire battery, and 24-hour ABP monitoring, participants were randomized to health education control (HEC), life skills training (LST), or breathing awareness meditation (BAM). Postintervention ABP was obtained. Significant three-way interactions on ABP changes indicated that among ET-1 SNP carriers, the only group to show reductions was BAM from low chronic stress environments. Among ET-1 SNP noncarriers, under low chronic stress exposure, all approaches worked, especially BAM. Among high stress exposure noncarriers, only BAM resulted in reductions. If these preliminary findings are replicated via ancillary analyses of archival databases and then via efficacy trials, selection of behavioral prescriptions for prehypertensives will be edging closer to being guided by individual's underlying genetic and environmental factors incorporating the healthcare model of personalized preventive medicine.
PTEN Deletion in Prostate Cancer Cells Does Not Associate with Loss of RAD51 Function: Implications for Radiotherapy and Chemotherapy
Authors: Fraser Michael , Zhao Helen , Luoto Kaisa R. , Lundin Cecilia , Coackley Carla , Chan Norman , Joshua Anthony M. , Bismar Tarek A. , Evans Andrew , Helleday Thomas , Bristow Robert G.
Published: November 2011

Purpose: PTEN deletions in prostate cancer are associated with tumor aggression and poor outcome. Recent studies have implicated PTEN as a determinant of homologous recombination (HR) through defective RAD51 function. Similar to BRCA1/2-defective tumor cells, PTEN-null prostate and other cancer cells have been reported to be sensitive to PARP inhibitors (PARPi). To date, no direct comparison between PTEN and RAD51 expression in primary prostate tumors has been reported.

Experimental Design: Prostate cancer cell lines and xenografts with known PTEN status (22RV1-PTEN+/+, DU145-PTEN+/−, PC3-PTEN−/−) and H1299 and HCT116 cancer cells were used to evaluate how PTEN loss affects RAD51 expression and PARPi sensitivity. Primary prostate cancers with known PTEN status were analyzed for RAD51 expression.

Results: PTEN status is not associated with reduced RAD51 mRNA or protein expression in primary prostate cancers. Decreased PTEN expression did not reduce RAD51 expression or clonogenic survival following PARPi among prostate cancer cells that vary in TP53 and PTEN. PARPi sensitivity instead associated with a defect in MRE11 expression. PTEN-deficient cells had only mild PARPi sensitivity and no loss of HR or RAD51 recruitment. Clonogenic cell survival following a series of DNA damaging agents was variable: PTEN-deficient cells were sensitive to ionizing radiation, mitomycin-C, UV, H2O2, and methyl methanesulfonate but not to cisplatin, camptothecin, or paclitaxel.

Conclusions: These data suggest that the relationship between PTEN status and survival following DNA damage is indirect and complex. It is unlikely that PTEN status will be a direct biomarker for HR status or PARPi response in prostate cancer clinical trials. Clin Cancer Res; 18(4); 1015–27. ©2011 AACR.
Clinical Features and Immunological Markers of Atopic Dermatitis in Elderly Patients
Authors: Bozek Andrzej , Fisher Andreas , Filipowska Barbara , Mazur Bogdan , Jarzab Jerzy
Published: November 2011

Background: Atopic dermatitis (AD) is increasing among the elderly. Staphylococcus aureus colonization is one of the most important aggravating factors in AD. Objective: This study analyses the clinical features of AD in elderly patients and determines the pathogenic roles of staphylococcal superantigens in AD with low and high total IgE levels. Methods:S. aureus enterotoxin genes were evaluated using PCR. Additionally, S. aureus-specific IgE levels and peripheral blood lymphocyte profiles were assessed. Results: A total of 44 women and 77 men diagnosed with AD with a mean age of 68.92 ± 6.51 years were evaluated. In 17 (68%) patients with AD and low levels of total IgE, there was a positive correlation between the positive results for enterotoxin B, S. aureus-specific IgE antibodies and Th1 cytokine profiles (Spearman’s rank correlation test, r = 0.89, p < 0.05). Conclusion: Our results indicate that AD patients with low total IgE levels differ in immunopathogenesis from AD patients with high circulating levels of total IgE AD.
Health Effects Related to Low Vitamin D Concentrations: Beyond Bone Metabolism
Authors: Moreno Luis A. , Valtueña Jara , Pérez-López Faustino , González-Gross Marcela
Published: November 2011

Background: Vitamin D is essential for a vast number of physiologic processes, and thus adequate levels are necessary or advantageous for optimal health. During childhood and adolescence, an adequate vitamin D status is needed due to its important role in cell growth, skeletal structure, and development. Aims: To review the extraskeletal effects of vitamin D, focusing especially on children. Methods: Narrative review. Results: Low vitamin D concentrations seem to be significantly associated with all-cause mortality. Regular sunlight exposure and vitamin D supplementation in early childhood may offer protection against the development of type 1 diabetes. Epidemiological evidence supports the importance of adequate vitamin D levels for the prevention of a number of cancers, mainly breast and colorectal ones. There seems to be an inverse relation between 25(OH)D serum concentrations and cardiovascular diseases, some components of the metabolic syndrome, and physical fitness. Conclusions: Lifestyle and appropriate nutrition may prevent the long-term effect of hypovitaminosis D beyond mineral and bone metabolism.
Renal Function and Solitary Kidney Disease: Wilms Tumour Survivors versus Patients with Unilateral Renal Agenesis
Authors: Stefanowicz Joanna , Owczuk Radosław , Kałużyńska Bogna , Aleksandrowicz Ewa , Owczarzak Anna , Adamkiewicz-Drożyńska Elżbieta , Balcerska Anna
Published: November 2011

Aims: To test the hypothesis that Wilms tumour survivors (WTs) experience increased disturbance in renal function, even after prompt treatment, compared to patients with unilateral renal agenesis (URA). Methods: To assess the renal function of 30 WTs and 17 individuals with URA, the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) was calculated using the Schwartz and Filler formulas as well as the new Schwartz equation for chronic kidney disease. To measure kidney damage, serum levels and urine excretion of β2-microglobulin (B2M), cystatin C (Cys C), neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL) were tested, N-acetyl-β-glucosaminidase (NAG), and albumin urine excretion and urine sediment were examined. Blood pressure was measured. Results: No differences were found between the groups in terms of eGFR, serum Cys C, B2M and NGAL concentrations. The urine excretion of Cys C, NGAL and NAG was similar in both groups. URA patients had higher B2M excretion than WTs. Arterial hypertension was present in 7/30 (23%) WTs and 1/17 (6%) patients with URA. Conclusions: WTs have similar eGFR to individuals with URA and are more likely to have arterial hypertension. The patients with URA have signs of tubular damage. This study demonstrates the need for nephrological monitoring of individuals with a single kidney.
Extrapair Paternity in Golden-Cheeked Gibbons (Nomascus gabriellae) in the Secondary Lowland Forest of Cat Tien National Park, Vietnam
Authors: Kenyon Marina , Roos Christian , Binh Vo Thanh , Chivers David
Published: November 2011

We observed 18 groups of golden-cheeked gibbons (Nomascus gabriellae) in the secondary lowland forest in Cat Tien National Park from January 2004 to December 2005 to obtain information about the social organization of this little-studied species, in an area where the population is recovering through increased protection and forest regeneration. DNA from faecal samples of 10 infants and juveniles identified 1 case of extrapair paternity. DNA from faecal samples of 18 adults from three communities revealed the majority of adults sampled of both sexes to be related to adults in neighbouring territories. Overall, the indications are that in this empty habitat, gibbons appear to be able to establish territories adjacent to those of their kin.
Incidence of Coronary Events and Case Fatality Rate in Relation to Blood Lymphocyte and Neutrophil Counts
Authors: Adamsson Eryd Samuel , Smith J. Gustav , Melander Olle , Hedblad Bo , Engström Gunnar
Published: November 2011

Objective—

Elevated levels of blood leukocytes have been associated with acute coronary events (CEs), but data on leukocyte subclasses are limited. This study aimed to explore whether blood lymphocyte and neutrophil counts are associated with incidence of CEs and with fatal outcome in subjects who subsequently experienced a first CE.

Methods and Results—

Neutrophil and lymphocyte counts were measured in 27 419 subjects from the general population without a history of CEs, heart failure, or atrial fibrillation. Incidence of CEs was studied in relation to leukocyte counts during a mean follow-up of 13.6 years. Neutrophil but not lymphocyte counts were significantly associated with incidence of CEs. After adjustments for confounding factors, the hazard ratios (95% confidence interval) were 1.00 (reference), 1.07 (0.94–1.23), 1.09 (0.95–1.25), and 1.39 (1.22–1.59) for subjects with neutrophils in the first, second, third, and fourth (highest) sex-specific quartiles, respectively (
P
for trend <0.001). Of the 1965 subject who had a CE, 471 subjects died on the first day of the CE, in- or outside hospital. The proportions of subjects who died the first day were 19%, 21%, 25%, and 28%, respectively in the first, second, third, and fourth quartiles (
P
for trend <0.001).

Conclusion—

Increased neutrophil counts are associated with incidence of CEs and increased case-fatality rate after a CE.
FSP-1 Silencing in Bone Marrow Cells Suppresses Neointima Formation in Vein Graft
Authors: Cheng Jizhong , Wang Yun , Liang Anlin , Jia Lixin , Du Jie
Published: November 2011

Rationale:

Fibroblast-specific protein 1 (FSP-1) plays multiple roles in promoting cell proliferation and motility. Increased FSP-1 expression in smooth muscle cells (SMCs) has been associated with their enhanced proliferation.

Objective:

To study how FSP-1 contributes to neointima formation of vein grafts.

Methods:

Arteriovenous grafts were created in wild-type or FSP-1–GFP mice (green fluorescent protein expression regulated by FSP-1 promoter). The effects of FSP-1 on bone marrow (BM) cell migration and on SMC proliferation were studied in vivo and in vitro.

Results:

On creation of a vein graft, there was rapid deposition of platelets on the denuded surface leading to secretion of the chemokine stromal cell–derived factor-1α (SDF-1α). This was followed by recruitment of BM-derived cells expressing the SDF-1α receptor CXCR4; homing of FSP-1–positive cells was found to be dependent on platelet-derived SDF-1α. FSP-1 was expressed in 8% of the BM cells, and 20% of these express CD45; 85% of FSP-1–positive cells express CD11b. We found that the FSP-1–positive cells migrated into the vein graft in a Rac-1–dependent fashion. FSP-1 expression was also found to stimulate proliferation of SMCs through a MEK5-ERK5 signaling pathway that can be suppressed by a dominant-negative Rac1. Consequently, knocking down FSP-1 expression in BM cells prevented neointimal formation.

Conclusions:

BM-derived FSP-1
+
cells enhance neointima formation through an increase in transendothelial invasion with stimulation of SMC proliferation. The Rac1 and ERK5 signaling cascade mediate FSP-1–induced responses in SMCs and BM cells. This novel pathophysiology suggests a new therapeutic target, FSP-1, for preventing the development of neointima in vein grafts.
Khirbet el-Kōm und Psalm 112—ein Fall von Intertextualität
Authors: Kessler Rainer
Published: November 2011

Abstract

Nearly all the vocabulary of the 8th century inscription from Khirbet el-Kōm appears in the biblical psalms. The qualification of Uriyahu as “the rich” in combination with the semantic field of the inscription leads directly and exclusively to the post-exilic Psalm 112. The article discusses the special form of intertextuality between the two texts. It argues that it is not a text-to-text-relation, but due to a common cultural world that the inscription and the psalm share.
“Curses, Foiled Again!” Further Research on Early Use of the Ḫad̠alahum Allāh Invocation during the Crusading Period
Authors: Christie Niall
Published: November 2011

Abstract

This article explores further the question of when the Muslims began to use suffixed invocations of God’s curse on the Franks (Crusaders), a topic that we have addressed previously in this journal.1 The common use of such invocations took some time to develop after the Franks’ arrival in the Levant, and previously we argued that this was primarily due to the suffixed invocation used by our earliest source failing to “catch on” with contemporaries, while later forms spoke more directly to the needs of the people of the time. Since the publication of that article we have had the opportunity to work with the original manuscript of our earliest source, which has revealed that the author did use a form of suffixed invocation that became popular later, but the manner in which he did so was sufficiently ambiguous to hinder its adoption by other writers.
Making Sense of the Formula of Chalcedon: the Cappadocians and Aristotle in Leontius of Byzantium’s Contra Nestorianos et Eutychianos
Authors: Krausmüller Dirk
Published: November 2011

Abstract

Leontius of Byzantium’s treatise Contra Nestorianos et Eutychianos begins with a section in which the author demonstrates how the human nature in Christ can be real without being a second hypostasis. Leontius starts from the ontological model of the Cappadocians but modifies it radically when he complements the two sets of qualities that constitute ‘nature’ and ‘hypostasis’ with an unqualified substrate. Introduction of such a substrate, which the Cappadocians had rejected, ensured the reality of the human nature within the hypostasis of the Word because it served to anchor the set of human qualities, which when seen by themselves were considered to be a mere abstraction. With this new ontological framework Leontius could defend the formula of Chalcedon against its Nestorian and Monophysite detractors and also demonstrate that it did not violate the tenets of Aristotelian philosophy, which in the sixth century was regarded as a true reflection of the order of being.
African Feminist Contributions to Missiological Anthropology
Authors: Vähäkangas Auli
Published: November 2011

Abstract

Missiology has mainly been the interest of white expatriate missionaries. In the context of the growing focus of Christianity on the global South, this article looks into African feminist theology. Using theologians of the “Circle of the Concerned Women Theologians in Africa,” this article analyses some central contributions made by members of this Circle in the field of missiology.

The most interesting feminist contribution to missiological anthropology is the search for a new cultural identity by modern African Christians. This search for identity includes a critical and positive view of African traditional practices. This contextualization process includes both the continuation and reconstruction of some of the practices which the Circle theologians have identified as not being oppressive. The African missiologists need in-depth anthropological and theological analyses to understand the variety of cultures in their societies and to contextualize the Gospel.
Rediscovering Howard R. Bowen’s Legacy
Authors: Acquier Aurélien , Gond Jean-Pascal , Pasquero Jean
Published: November 2011

Many business and society scholars hail Howard R. Bowen as the founding father of the academic conception and study of corporate social responsibility (CSR). Yet little is known widely about his life and the true agenda of Social Responsibilities of the Businessman (Bowen), his landmark book. This article explores the historical and current significance of Bowen’s seminal work. The authors contend that the analytical perspective Bowen proposed nearly 60 years ago, although regrettably underappreciated in past decades, is more relevant than ever to stimulating future research on CSR and to revitalizing business and society scholarship.
Parental Rearing, Attachment, and Social Anxiety in Chinese Adolescents
Authors: Mothander Pia Risholm , Wang Mo
Published: November 2011

This cross-sectional study investigated associations between perceived parental rearing, attachment, and social anxiety. 510 Chinese middle school students, aged 12 to 20 years, completed a set of questionnaires including “Egna Minnen Beträffande Uppfostran” for Children (EMBU-C), Inventory for Parent and Peer Attachment (IPPA) and Social Anxiety Scale for Adolescents (SAS-A). The results showed that intercorrelations between adolescents’ rated attachment to parents were stronger than betweenparental and peer attachment. Girls scored higher on attachment to mother and peer than boys. Lack of parental rejection and presence of emotional warmth were strongly related to parental attachment. The rated level of total anxiety was not related to gender or age, but it was lower than what has earlier been reported from China. Perceived rejection from fathers and mothers’ as well as attachment to peer and mother acted as predictors; together they explained 19% of the variance in social anxiety.
Cerebral Abscess Complicating Proteus mirabilis Meningitis in a Newborn Infant
Authors: Phan Helen , Lehman Deborah
Published: November 2011

Neonatal bacterial meningitis is associated with high morbidity and mortality, especially when complicated by intracranial abscesses. The authors report the case of an 11-day-old female with Proteus mirabilis meningitis complicated by an asymptomatic brain abscess. With this report, the authors illustrate the importance of surveillance neuroradiologic imaging in patients with Proteus meningitis.
Being Unsettled as a Space of Possibility
Authors: LaPointe Lindsey , Mehrotra Gita , O’Brien Patricia
Published: November 2011

“Unsettling Feminism(s): Disrupting the Center, Dismantling Oppressions, Transforming Social Work” took place on May 22–24, 2011 in the campus of the University of Illinois at Chicago. Three participants in the “unconference” reflect on how the conference realized its intent of “unsettling” current thinking and expanding the possibility for transformative and emancipator action. While the unconference provided space for a generative dialogue among a rich diversity of participants, multiple spaces are required for interrogating, integrating, and building multiracial feminism/feminisms and knowledge for the transformative social work we envision as possible.
The Unsettling Feminism(s) Unconference
Authors: Sethi Bharati
Published: November 2011

In this article, the author shares her experiences as a doctoral student at the Unsettling Feminism(s) conference in Chicago. She argues that this unconference forced her to question how the academy conceives of “academic conferences” as venues of student–professional development. From the perspective of a racialized woman, an immigrant, a scholar, and a person with a disability, such professional gatherings that honor social workers’ and researchers’ multiple identities and offer valued spaces for marginalized stories to be told and heard can be personally and professionally transformative. The author uses the metaphor of an elephant in the room to argue that even though it may be unsettling, the academy must be willing to risk uncomfortable dialogues to advance social work education, practice, and research and to enhance students’ intellectual creativity.
Men in Social Work
Authors: Pease Bob
Published: November 2011

This article is concerned with the reproduction of gender inequality in social work and the extent to which the presence of men in the profession challenges discriminatory processes and occupational segregation. Although it is argued that men need to take more responsibility for caring roles in professions like social work, many of the rationales for encouraging more men to enter social work are unlikely to support alternative masculinities that will challenge gender inequalities. Only a profeminist commitment informing antisexist practices will enable men to address gender inequality in social work.
Annie Mae Kenion (1912–2009)
Authors: Carlton-LaNey Iris , Chavis Annie McCullough
Published: November 2011

This article examines the career of Annie Mae Kenion who worked as a Jeanes teacher and supervisor of African American schools for more than 40 years. Strict racial segregation and disenfranchisement was the order of the day throughout most of her career, forcing her to negotiate the system gingerly in order to serve children. Kenion’s professional life illustrates an unyielding love of learning and the stark connection between education and the African American struggle against oppression.
Sociocultural Factors to Consider When Addressing the Vulnerability of Social Service Users
Authors: Shier Micheal L. , Jones Marion E. , Graham John R.
Published: November 2011

In a study conducted in 2008–2009, 25 employed homeless women in Calgary, Canada, were interviewed to gain a better understanding of their pathways from homelessness. The data analysis uncovered a mix of personal and societal issues to consider and provides a framework for understanding the complexity of sociocultural factors that contribute to the vulnerability of users of services. In combination, these many sociocultural factors affected the participants’ personal exit from homelessness. The role of service delivery organizations in helping to identify vulnerabilities experienced by service users and respond to these issues in practice will have an influence on resolving social issues like homelessness.
The organization of Santa: fetishism, ambivalence and narcissism
Authors: Cluley Robert
Published: November 2011

Santa is an essential part of Christmas. He is not just a fantasy image or cultural product. Instead, psychological and sociological research shows that we relate to Santa as both real person and a fantasy entity. In particular, parents, who know that Santa is not real, have been found to believe in Santa as if he were real. They both provide their children with misinformation about Santa and condition them into acting out their belief that Santa is a real person. The article argues that parents’ role in this organization of Santa can be understood through the psychoanalytic concepts of fetishism, ambivalence and narcissism. The article concludes that parents’ misinform their children about Santa in order to meet their own narcissistic wishes. They organize a world based on an image they wish were true as if it were true.
The power struggle of French intellectuals at the end of the Second World War: A study in the sociology of ideas
Authors: Baert Patrick
Published: November 2011

This article is one of the first sociological explorations of power struggles between intellectuals where matters of life and death are literally at stake. It counters the prevailing tendency within sociology to study intellectuals within confined academic institutions where power struggles are limited to matters of symbolic and institutional recognition. This study explores the conflict between collaborationist and Resistance intellectuals at the end of the Second World War in France, and it focuses in particular on the purge of collaborationist intellectuals which culminated in several high profile trials. This article shows that the arguments and meta-arguments put forward in these trials led to broader intellectual debates outside the courtroom. These debates not only centred on the notion of the writer’s responsibility, but also dealt with anxieties about the disintegrative forces of modern society. Whereas collaborationist intellectuals portrayed their writing as either separate from politics or rescuing a defunct or degenerate nation, Resistance intellectuals such as Jean-Paul Sartre were keen to portray collaborators as outsiders, both socially and sexually, lacking in social integration and subservient to a strong external force. The Resistance intellectuals saw the notion of individual responsibility not as antithetical but as integral to the remaking of the French nation, and this concept would become the cornerstone of the reshaping of the intellectual landscape in the post-war era in France.
Who has been a successful public intellectual?
Authors: Collins Randall
Published: November 2011

A stringent criterion for a public intellectual is proposed: persons who are simultaneously major creative intellectuals, and successful political leaders. Using data from the careers of 2700 philosophers throughout world history, and social scientists in recent centuries, the article concludes that three kinds of political failure by intellectuals are prominent: (1) failure to attain political office; (2) failure while in office; and (3) failure of political influence from adoption of one’s ideas. On the whole, major intellectuals are not good at politics; and politicians do not make outstanding intellectuals. The skills and pressures of the two spheres are too different.
The production of pro-suicide content on the internet: A counter-discourse activity
Authors: Westerlund Michael
Published: November 2011

Pro-suicide websites are topping search engine result lists, raising fears about the internet’s detrimental influence on behaviour and attitudes related to suicide. Based on a qualitative analysis, this article argues that the production of pro-suicide content on the internet should be seen as a counter-discourse, directed against socially dominant perceptions of suicide. On pro-suicide websites, the description of technical, chemical and anatomic details, the expression of honourable and clearly individualistic ideals, the depictions of morbid bodily violence, together with the absence of emotional content could all be said to represent a kind of constructed Western masculinity. Furthermore, because of its potential for identity gain and the acting out of aggressive impulses, it is crucial – although this may seem somewhat paradoxical – to understand the production of the pro-suicide content as a manifestation of what is, for the participants, a meaningful practice.
The rise of blogging: Articulation as a dynamic of technological stabilization
Authors: Siles Ignacio
Published: November 2011

This article conceptualizes the emergence and stabilization of blogging as a process of articulation; that is, the establishment of a non-necessary link between a group of internet users, websites, metaphors, and practices of content creation. Data for this study come from a mixed-methods research design. Drawing on an interdisciplinary framework that combines constructionist sociology of technology, communication and media research, and cultural studies, this article analyzes three important dynamics of articulation that shaped the rise of blogging from 1997 to 1999: the constitution of patterns of similarity between certain websites; the adoption of the term ‘weblog’ to identify this group of websites and their associated metaphors and content creation practices; and the coalescence of their creators into a self-defined community of users. This case affords significant opportunities for thinking about the contemporary appropriation of blogs and the dynamics of stabilization and use of new media.
Political Participation of Registered Nurses
Authors: Vandenhouten Christine L. , Malakar Crystalmichelle L. , Kubsch Sylvia , Block Derryl E. , Gallagher-Lepak Susan
Published: November 2011

Level of political participation and factors contributing to participation were measured among Midwest RNs ( n = 468) via an online survey (Cronbach’s α = .95). Respondents reported engaging in primarily “low cost” activities (e.g., voting, discussing politics, and contacting elected officials), with fewer reporting speaking at public gatherings, participating in demonstrations, and membership in nursing organizations. Psychological engagement was most predictive ( p < .001) of political participation with the dimensions of political interest, political efficacy, and political information/knowledge highly significant ( p < .001). Resources (time/money/civic skills) significantly contributed to political participation ( p < .001). Less than half (40%) felt they could impact local decisions, and fewer (32%) felt they could impact state or national government decisions. Most respondents (80%) indicated their nursing courses lacked political content and did not prepare them for political participation. Findings showed that nurse educators and leaders of professional nursing organizations need to model and cultivate greater psychological engagement among students and nurses.
Book Review: Yellow Dirt: An American Story of a Poisoned Land and a People Betrayed
Authors: Kahn Louise
Published: November 2011

Nurses and other health professionals working to reduce health disparities and promote policies to increase health equity need to know about contemporary issues that impact minority populations. This book review details one such issue, told by Judy Pasternak in Yellow Dirt: An American Story of a Poisoned Land and a People Betrayed. In the book review, the history of uranium mining in Navajo communities is described, highlighting the minimization of health impacts on the Diné (Navajo) people by the U.S. government, health agencies and the Atomic Energy Commission. It outlines the struggle of Navajo people and other advocates today to clean up the devastating environmental impacts and cope with the health impacts, which include exponentially increased rates of cancer and syndromes related to in utero exposure to uranium. This is a story that few outside of Navajo Country know about. It is a cautionary tale to health care workers demonstrating how unethical and practices dangerous to the health of workers and future generations of their families can happen in our nation even today, and how health care workers can be unwitting participants.
Free convection along a vertical wavy surface in a nanofluid
Authors: Gorla Rama SR , Kumari Mahesh
Published: November 2011

A boundary layer analysis is presented for the natural convection past an isothermal vertical wavy surface in a nanofluid. The boundary layer regime when the Grashof number Gr is large is considered in detail. Using appropriate variables, the basic equations are transformed into non-similar form. These equations are mapped into the domain of a flat vertical plate, and then solved numerically employing the implicit finite difference method together with Keller’s box scheme. The effects of the surface wave amplitude on the rate of heat and mass transfer and the surface shear stress are presented graphically for parametric variations of the buoyancy ratio parameter, Brownian motion parameter, thermophoresis parameter and Lewis number. The presented analysis estimates the effect of roughness of the surface on the nanofluid boundary layer.
CD27 costimulation augments the survival and antitumor activity of redirected human T cells in vivo
Authors: Song De-Gang , Ye Qunrui , Poussin Mathilde , Harms Gretchen M. , Figini Mariangela , Powell Daniel J.
Published: November 2011

The costimulatory effects of CD27 on T lymphocyte effector function and memory formation has been confined to evaluations in mouse models, in vitro human cell culture systems, and clinical observations. Here, we tested whether CD27 costimulation actively enhances human T-cell function, expansion, and survival in vitro and in vivo. Human T cells transduced to express an antigen-specific chimeric antigen receptor (CAR-T) containing an intracellular CD3 zeta (CD3ζ) chain signaling module with the CD27 costimulatory motif in tandem exerted increased antigen-stimulated effector functions in vitro, including cytokine secretion and cytotoxicity, compared with CAR-T with CD3ζ alone. After antigen stimulation in vitro, CD27-bearing CAR-T cells also proliferated, up-regulated Bcl-XL protein expression, resisted apoptosis, and underwent increased numerical expansion. The greatest impact of CD27 was noted in vivo, where transferred CAR-T cells with CD27 demonstrated heightened persistence after infusion, facilitating improved regression of human cancer in a xenogeneic allograft model. This tumor regression was similar to that achieved with CD28- or 4-1BB–costimulated CARs, and heightened persistence was similar to 4-1BB but greater than CD28. Thus, CD27 costimulation enhances expansion, effector function, and survival of human CAR-T cells in vitro and augments human T-cell persistence and antitumor activity in vivo.
The RNase III enzyme Dicer is essential for germinal center B-cell formation
Authors: Xu Shengli , Guo Ke , Zeng Qi , Huo Jianxin , Lam Kong-Peng
Published: November 2011

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are short noncoding RNAs that regulate gene expression and are important for pre-B and follicular B lymphopoiesis as demonstrated, respectively, by mb-1-Cre– and cd19-Cre–mediated deletion of Dicer, the RNase III enzyme critical for generating mature miRNAs. To explore the role of miRNAs in B-cell terminal differentiation, we use Aicda-Cre to specifically delete Dicer in activated B cells where activation-induced cytidine deaminase is highly expressed. We demonstrate that mutant mice fail to produce high-affinity class-switched antibodies and generate memory B and long-lived plasma cells on immunization with a T cell–dependent antigen. More importantly, germinal center (GC) B-cell formation is drastically compromised in the absence of Dicer, as a result of defects in cell proliferation and survival. Dicer-deficient GC B cells express higher levels of cell cycle inhibitor genes and proapoptotic protein Bim. Ablation of Bim could partially rescue the defect in GC B-cell formation in Dicer-deficient mice. Taken together, our data suggest that Dicer and probably miRNAs are critical for GC B-cell formation during B-cell terminal differentiation.