bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
BAFF- and APRIL-Dependent Maintenance of Antibody Titers after Immunization with T-Dependent Antigen and CD1d-Binding Ligand
Authors: Shah Hemangi B. , Joshi Sunil K. , Rampuria Pragya , Devera T. Scott , Lang Gillian A. , Stohl William , Lang Mark L.
Published: June 2013

CD1d-restricted invariant NKT (iNKT) cells boost humoral immunity to T-dependent Ags that are coadministered with the CD1d-binding glycolipid Ag α-galactosylceramide (α-GC). Observations that mice lacking iNKT cells have decaying Ab responses following vaccination have led to the hypothesis that iNKT cells express plasma cell (PC) survival factors that sustain specific Ab titers. Bone marrow chimeric mice in which the entire hematopoietic compartment or iNKT cells selectively lacked BAFF, a proliferation-inducing ligand (APRIL), or both BAFF and APRIL were created and immunized with nitrophenol hapten-conjugated keyhole limpet hemocyanin adsorbed to Imject aluminum hydroxide–containing adjuvant or mixed with α-GC. In comparison with BAFF- or APRIL-sufficient bone marrow chimeras, absence of hematopoietic compartment- and iNKT-derived BAFF and APRIL was associated with rapidly decaying Ab titers and reduced PC numbers. The iNKT cell–derived BAFF or APRIL assumed a greater role in PC survival when α-GC was used as the adjuvant for immunization. These results show that iNKT cell–derived BAFF and APRIL each contribute to survival of PCs induced by immunization. This study sheds new light on the mechanisms through which iNKT cells impact humoral immunity and may inform design of vaccines that incorporate glycolipid adjuvants.
Vormt moderne antropologie een probleem voor het Christelijk geloof?
Authors: Van den Brom Luco J.
Published: June 2013

Does modern anthropology pose a problem to the Christian faith? Contemporary scientific anthropology proposes a naturalistic conception of human personhood because of humankind’s place somewhere in the larger evolutionary process of life. Some authors use the theory of biological evolution to explain phenomena in other areas as well, and due to its success suggest it has universal application in cultural and religious studies too, as if it were a theory of everything. Darwin’s idea of a common origin of all life undermined a supposed superiority of humankind. It signalled the end of an Aristotelian metaphysical notion of classification and constituted a real blow for classical individualistic anthropology. Dawkins explains religion in terms of empirical immanent biological processes in the human brain. He views religious ideas as ‘memes’ that act like an infectious virus in mental processes. His hypothesis seems to be a relapse into the old Aristotelian pattern. Michael Persinger interprets religion as an internal physiological state of an individual brain and reduces the language of mental concepts to physiological states of a material brain. Persinger’s, and also Dennett’s, materialistic view presupposes a God’s Eye Point of View as an Archimedian perspective outside the world. If a God exists, the neurologists Newberg and d’Aquili argue that he needs a point of contact within our brain: the God spot. Sociobiologists Edward Wilson and David Wilson consider religion a form of group adaptation, because cooperating individuals show the primary benefits of cooperation and altruistic behaviour, just as social insects. Religion is an evolutionary support of altruistic instincts and creates a social infrastructure to benefit a cooperative society. However, social insects merely act on their instincts whereas human beings can act intentionally even against their primary instincts, because of motives for altruist practices inspired, for example, by the narratives and concepts of a Christian tradition. The communion of saints does not take place merely because of a social instinct, but because of the shared motive of the community as a whole, that is, the body of Christ, which acts altruistically irrespective of persons, including outsiders!
Die sendingkonferensie van die G.E.S. te Kaapstad op 2–6 Augustus 1976 – ’n terugblik
Authors: Botha L. J.
Published: June 2013

Dit is inderdaad ’n grootse ervaring om ’n byeenkoms van Gereformeerdgesinde Christene van oor die hele wêreld by te woon. Die ekumeniese karakter van die konferensie te Kaapstad blyk duidelik uit die presensielys. Daar was afgevaardigdes van Gereformeerdgesinde kerke vanuit Malawi, Nigerië, Rhodesië, Suid-Afrika, Suidwes-Afrika, Zambië, Siri Lanka, Japan, Frankryk, Noord-Ierland, Nederland, Skotland, V.S.A., Suid-Amerika, Australië, Indonesië en Nieu-Seeland.
De Oudtestamentische Citaten in het nieuwe testament, met name in het evangelie naar Mattheus
Authors: Versteeg J. P.
Published: June 2013

Reeds in de tijd van de patres waren de oudtestamentische citaten in het Nieuwe Testament onderwerp van studie. Veelal had deze studie een duidelijk polemische spits.
Onderzoek naar de synoptische relatie van de brieven aan de Efeziërs en aan de Kolossenzen
Authors: Vleugels G. A. M. , Coetzee J. C.
Published: June 2013

De unieke literaire verhouding van de nieuwtestamentische brieven aan de Efeziers en aan de Kolossenzen tot elkaar heeft al lang vragen doen rijzen en speculatie uitgelokt onder exegeten. Hoewel er vandaag een zekere consensus waarneembaar is inzake de aard van deze verwantschap, is er tot op heden een gebrek aan een objectieve, technische inventaris van de synoptische gegevens, die voor de studie van dit vraagstuk onontbeerlijk is. Door aan de ene kant deze lacune en aan de andere kant de relevantie van dit vraagstuk aan te wijzen, wil dit artikel prikkelend werken op wie betrokken is bij de studie van het Corpus Paulinum. Niet alleen is er een nood aan een degelijke synopsis van beide brieven: een dergelijk werk moet bovendien als instrument bij het onderzoek naar de historische context, de tekst en de betekenis van deze geschriften gaan functioneren.
Indikatief en paraklese in Romeine
Authors: Kruger M. A.
Published: June 2013

The introductory part of this article presents an explanation of what is meant by the Greek New Testament word παράκλησις: and an indication of what is accepted by the author of this article as a valid method of studying Romans. The main indicative of Romans lies in the first part, 1:16 - 4:25. Special attention should thus be given to the introductory part before this main section. In deviations from the formal introduction to the letter Paul beforehand indicates what is to follow later in the letter The traditional exegesis of Romans 1:18 is not considered as correct in all aspects and reformed dogmatics built on Romans 1 should be reconsidered as far as sufficiency of revelation is concemed The second main section, Romans 5-8 is a consolation and an exhortation to Christians to persevere in faith. The third part, Romans 9-11, is an appeal to Jews to accept Jesus Christ as the Messiah. This part also contains an urgent warning to Christians from the Gentiles not to fall into covenant-automatism. The παράκλησις; of Romans 12:1 -15:13 is directed in first instance to the congregation in Rome. Though this paraclesis primarily concerns the congregation in Rome, it also touches upon the relation to the world and to authority, and it culminates in Romans 15:7 with an appeal that the diverse groups in the congregation in Rome should accept each other as Christ had accepted them. In the concluding part of the letter Paul’s main issues are to get the Romans involved in his planned missionary work in Spain and the appeal that they should bring forth the fruit of their faith. The article concludes with some suggestions for sermons from Romans.
Die konsep bely/belydenis in die Nuwe Testament
Authors: Van Rensburg F. J.
Published: June 2013

The aim of this article is to determine the most important Greek words for the concept profess/profession in the New Testament, and to give preliminary definitions of applicable meanings for these words. The semantic model within which this study is undertaken, is the synchronic structuralist view of meaning, and the data in the Louw-Nida Dictionary are utilized. As starling point a definition of the concept profess/profession is given. The words in the Greek New Testament are determined by examining acknowledged professions in the New Testament, as well as encouragements and possible allusions to profess. The meanings within the different subdomains are contrasted in different ways. In conclusion the Greek words for the concept profess/profession are listed, and a definition of each meaning is given.
Psalm 145: loof Jahwe van A tot Z
Authors: Prinsloo W. S.
Published: June 2013

Despite the absence of any clear strophic division, this acrostic is a remarkable poem. The poet employs numerous poetic techniques, notably the repetition of words. Psalm 145 could be described as a hymn. The poetic techniques serve to convey the contents of the psalm. It is a persuasive text in which the poet sets out to persuade his readers or hearers that Yahweh should be praised for his greatness, sovereignty and love.
Imago Dei diskussie met Adrio König
Authors: Van Wyk J. H.
Published: June 2013

Adrio König is a prolific author and has enriched dogmatics with a considerable number of stimulating studies. His latest book on anthropology is no exception on the rule. In this article I intend to supplv, firstly, a summary of the contents of the book, secondly, to make some general remarks, thirdly, to give a positive assessment and in the fourth place to embark on a critical evaluation. The most valuable contribution, in my view, is to be found in König's elucidating discussion of the concept to be like God. because with this concept we strike at the heart of the imago Dei.
Die New Age beweging - oorsig en beoordeling
Authors: De Bruyn P. J.
Published: June 2013

The New Age Movement (NAM) is a leaderless but powerful network, working to bring about radical change in the world. In fact the NAM is a transplantation of Hindu philosophy, with Buddist elements from the East to the West. This article explicates the origin of the NAM and describes its mystic, occult and feminist character. In the article it is stated that the NAM rests on monistic and astrological pillars and that its main doctrines are as follows: pantheism, emanation (instead of creation), reincarnation and the fact that Christ is one of the great Masters controlling the world. The views and doctrines of the NAM are then judged in the light of Scripture.
God se nuwe wereld as antwoord op die New Age - beweging
Authors: Jordaan G. J. C.
Published: June 2013

The concept of the coming new age is not a creation of the New Age Movement, but is part of the biblical message of the new world of God. Evidence from especially the New Testament elucidates the fact that God has led the world into a New Age (aeon) of his kingdom with the coming of Jesus Christ. The new age which is propagated by the New Age Movement has much in common with the new age of the Bible, though only superficially. A comparison proves that the New Age Movement has given a meaning to the Scriptural concept of a new age contradictory to that of the Bible.
Basisteoretiese perspektiewe op kommunikasie in die bediening
Authors: Venter C. J. H.
Published: June 2013

The issue dealt with in this article is the extracting of certain basic- theoretical perspectives from Scripture, especially from the New Testament, to serve as guidelines for communication in the ministry. The following features are investigated: the source of the communication, the action and content of communication, the manifestations of communication, the role of the Holy Spirit in equipping man to communicate. Furthermore the requirements set by Scripture for the communicator, the modus (way) of communication and the authority in communication are also discussed. In conclusion certain basic-theoretical theses for communication in the ministry are postulated.
Christelike Teologie en Christelike Filosofie en Hulle Onderlinge Verhouding
Authors: Van der Merwe D. C. S.
Published: June 2013

Ons Ieef vandag in alle opsigte, maar ook in die wetenskap in die algemeen en in die teologie en filosofie in besonder, in 'n tyd waarin negatiewe aftakeling van alles wat tradisioneel en vas was, hoog in die mode is. Onder die skuilnaam van progressive, skep dit ’n toestand van oneindige verwarring en verwildering, sodat mens in die versoeking kom om of saam amok te maak of om andersins na 'n veilige skuilplek te soek by een of ander gesaghebbende persoon of by een of ander kort en kragtige, maklik verstaanbare en hanteerbare formule of beginseluitspraak.
Verduisterde selfinsig as morele probleem
Authors: Van Wyk J. H.
Published: June 2013

In this article the cause, the effect and the solution of an obscured self-perception are investigated. The cause of an obscured self-perception is to be found imbedded in man's problematic relation to God, a reality which affects every aspect of human life. These effects can be perceived in the fields of marriage and sexual life, but also in politics and economics. The solution of all human problems can only he found in the gospel of Christ, yes, in Christ Himself.
Twintigste eeuse liturgiese vernuwing
Authors: Van der Merwe D. C. S.
Published: June 2013

As ’n waterstroom swak vloei, dan kan dit niks en niemand meesleur nie en dan raak dit ook alte maklik verdeeld in klein stroompies. Die stukrag en vloei van die kerklike lewe is so flou dat elke lidmaat eintlik ’n belemmering daarin word in plaas van om daardeur saamgesleep te word; verdeeldheid en twis vloei dan alte maklik daaruit voort.
Die chiliasme in die Gereformeerde Kerk en ’n antwoord daarop
Authors: Wijnbeek D. H. P.
Published: June 2013

Die chiliasme is ’n leer wat baie geliefd is by baie sektes. Tog moet ons oppas om alle chiliastiese neigings onder een hoof saam te vat en te sê dat almal sektaries is! Die Jehowa-getuies is byvoorbeeld ook chiliasties gesind maar hulle leer kan maklik op dogmatiese punte uitmekaar getrek word. By die chiliasme in die Gereformeerde Kerk is dit heeltemal ’n ander saak. Daar is die vredetyd nie ’n tyd vir verbetering op grond van ’n algemene versoeningsleer nie.
Hoe kan daar dikwels oor die Kategismus gepreek word sonder om die mense weg te jaag?
Authors: Dijkstra H.
Published: June 2013

Op grond van die reformatoriese opvatting van die verhouding Skrif en belydenis en op grond van die Bybelse vulling en reformatoriese herontdekking van die predikingskategorie, préék mens nie óór die Kategismus nie. Ek kom hierop terug maar plaas die woordjie ‘oor’ in die opskrif by voorbaat tussen aanhalingstekens.
Die Swart Teologie
Authors: Schulze L. F.
Published: June 2013

Dit is nie maklik om oor hierdie tema te praat nie omdat hierdie jong teologie (nog?) ly aan ’n gebrek aan duidelike begripsomlyning, daar reeds variasies in aksente en tendense speurbaar is en omdat dit ingebed lê in die lewenservaring van die Swartman wat vir ons feitlik ontoeganklik is.
Neurotrauma and Repair Research: Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) and its Treatments
Authors: Algattas Hanna , Huang Jason H.
Published: June 2013

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) affects a growing portion of the population and continues to take national spotlight with advances in imaging technology and understanding of long-term effects. However, there is large variance in TBI treatment protocols due to injury variability and lack of both mechanistic understanding and strong treatment recommendations. Recent practice suggests three disparate treatment approaches, all which aim at promoting neuroprotection after TBI, show promise: immediate hypothermia, hyperbaric oxygen, and progesterone supplementation. The research is controversial at times, yet there are abundant opportunities to develop the technology behind hypothermia and hyperbaric oxygen treatments which would surely aid in aligning the current data. Additionally, while progesterone has already been packaged in nanoparticle form it may benefit from continued formulation and administration research. The treatments and the avenues for improvement are reviewed in the present paper.
Two Unique Cases with Anti-GluR Antibody-Positive Encephalitis
Authors: Matsuzono Kosuke , Kurata Tomoko , Deguchi Shoko , Yamashita Toru , Deguchi Kentaro , Ikeda Yoshio , Abe Koji
Published: June 2013

We report two cases of anti-glutamic acid receptor (anti-GluR) antibody-positive encephalitis in males with symptoms such as Parkinsonism, urinary retention, and paralytic ileus. Although non-herpetic encephalitis typically shows magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) lesions in the limbic system during early stages, the present cases showed MRI lesions during later stages in the bilateral claustrum and pons. In both cases, anti-GluRε2 and δ2 antibodies were later shown to be positive in the cerebrospinal fluid but negative in the serum. Although early detection of anti-GluR antibodies is essential, early treatment may be significantly more important.
The Golden Years: Men From The Forbes 400 Have Much Younger Wives When Remarrying Than the General US Population.
Authors: Pollet Thomas V , Pratt Sophia E , Edwards Gracia , Stulp Gert
Published: June 2013

A common stereotype is that richer men have wives who are substantially younger than themselves. However, some research suggests that large age gaps are actually more common with low male income, at least in the general population. Here, we examine spousal age differences among the super wealthy (Forbes 400 list – the richest 400 individuals in the US). Men from the Forbes 400 on average had a spouse who was seven years younger, which is significantly different from the mean age difference between spouses in the US population. Furthermore when these men remarried, their subsequent spouse was substantially younger, twenty-two years younger on average, again markedly different from the general population. Wealthy women did not differ from the general population in terms of spousal age differences. We conclude that based on these data the stereotype that rich men (re)marry younger wives holds a kernel of truth, at least for a sample of the super wealthy.
Concentration-weighted trajectory approach to identifying potential sources of speciated atmospheric mercury at an urban coastal site in Nova Scotia, Canada
Authors: Cheng I. , Zhang L. , Blanchard P. , Dalziel J. , Tordon R.
Published: June 2013

Abstract. Regional and local sources contributing to gaseous elemental mercury (GEM), gaseous oxidized mercury (GOM), and particle-bound mercury (PBM) at an urban coastal site in Dartmouth, Nova Scotia, Canada were investigated using the Concentration-Weighted Trajectory model (CWT) and Conditional Probability Function. From 2010–2011, GEM, GOM, and PBM concentrations were 1.67 ± 1.01 ng m−3, 2.07 ± 3.35 pg m−3, and 2.32 ± 3.09 pg m−3, respectively. Seasonal variability was observed, with statistically higher GEM and PBM concentrations in winter and spring and higher GOM in spring. In the CWT, concentrations are the weighting factors for the trajectory residence time in modeled grid cells, which results in the identification of source areas based on the CWT values in the grid cells. Potential source areas were identified in regions with known industrial Hg sources particularly in the fall season, but also in regions without these sources (e.g. Atlantic Ocean, northern Ontario and Quebec). CWTs for GOM and PBM that were associated with ≥ 5 kg industrial Hg emissions from 2010–2011 were statistically larger than those with zero Hg emissions, despite a lack of strong correlations. A large proportion of elevated CWTs (85–97%) was in regions with zero industrial Hg sources indicating the potential role of non-point sources, natural emissions, and residential-scale combustion. Analysis of wind data suggests that a commercial harbor and vehicular traffic were potential local sources. Evaluating modeled source areas against Hg emissions inventories was not an ideal method for assessing the CWT model accuracy because of insufficient data on Hg emissions at more precise locations.
Phytoplankton chlorophyll a biomass, composition, and productivity along a temperature and stratification gradient in the northeast Atlantic Ocean
Authors: van de Poll W. H. , Kulk G. , Timmermans K. R. , Brussaard C. P. D. , van der Woerd H. J. , Kehoe M. J. , Mojica K. D. A. , Visser R. J. W. , Rozema P. D. , Buma A. G. J.
Published: June 2013

Abstract. Relationships between sea surface temperature (SST, > 10 m) and vertical density stratification, nutrient concentrations, and phytoplankton biomass, composition, and chlorophyll a (Chl a) specific absorption were assessed in spring and summer from latitudes 29 to 63° N in the northeast Atlantic Ocean. The goal of this study was to identify relationships between phytoplankton and abiotic factors in an existing SST and stratification gradient. Furthermore, a bio-optical model was used to estimate productivity for five phytoplankton groups. Nutrient concentration (integrated from 0 to 125 m) was inversely correlated with SST in spring and summer. SST was also inversely correlated with near-surface (0–50 m) Chl a and productivity for stratified stations. Near-surface Chl a and productivity showed exponential relationships with SST. Chl a specific absorption and excess light experiments indicated photoacclimation to lower irradiance in spring as compared to summer. In addition, Chl a specific absorption suggested that phytoplankton size decreased in summer. The contribution of cyanobacteria to water column productivity of stratified stations correlated positively with SST and inversely with nutrient concentration. This suggests that a rise in SST (over a 13–23 °C range) stimulates productivity by cyanobacteria at the expense of haptophytes, which showed an inverse relationship to SST. At higher latitudes, where rising SST may prolong the stratified season, haptophyte productivity may expand at the expense of diatom productivity. Depth-integrated Chl a (0–410 m) was greatest in the spring at higher latitudes, where stratification in the upper 200 m was weakest. This suggests that stronger stratification does not necessarily result in higher phytoplankton biomass standing stock in this region.
Stochastic modeling of Lake Van water level time series with jumps and multiple trends
Authors: Aksoy H. , Unal N. E. , Eris E. , Yuce M. I.
Published: June 2013

Abstract. In the 1990s, water level in the closed-basin Lake Van located in the Eastern Anatolia, Turkey, has risen up about 2 m. Analysis of the hydrometeorological data shows that change in the water level is related to the water budget of the lake. In this study, stochastic models are proposed for simulating monthly water level data. Two models considering mono- and multiple-trend time series are developed. The models are derived after removal of trend and periodicity in the dataset. Trend observed in the lake water level time series is fitted by mono- and multiple-trend lines. In the so-called mono-trend model, the time series is treated as a whole under the hypothesis that the lake water level has an increasing trend. In the second model (so-called multiple-trend), the time series is divided into a number of segments to each a linear trend can be fitted separately. Application on the lake water level data shows that four segments, each fitted with a trend line, are meaningful. Both the mono- and multiple-trend models are used for simulation of synthetic lake water level time series under the hypothesis that the observed mono- and multiple-trend structure of the lake water level persist during the simulation period. The multiple-trend model is found better for planning the future infrastructural projects in surrounding areas of the lake as it generates higher maxima for the simulated lake water level.
A Numerical Technique to Estimate Water Depths from Remotely Sensed Water Wave Characteristics
Authors: Fassieh K. M.
Published: June 2013

This paper describes a numerical technique to estimate water depths from remotely sensed water wave characteristics. Two depth inversion models have been developed based on both linear and nonlinear dispersion relations. A simplified technique to get wave height distribution from remotely sensed water surface elevations is presented. Synthetic input data are generated using a refraction-diffraction numerical model. In intermediate water depths, there is good agreement between actual and estimated depths (relative errors are of order 10%). It is shown that depth inversion using linear dispersion relation overestimates water depth near shoreline. The nonlinear model is seen to improve the inverted depth by 10% and could retrieve two-dimensional depth profile.
Vitamin E Is a Nephroprotectant Agent in Male but Not in Female in a Model of Cisplatin-Induced Nephrotoxicity
Authors: Jilanchi Sima , Nematbakhsh Mehdi , Bahadorani Mehrnoosh , Talebi Ardeshir , Eshraghi-Jazi Fatemeh , Mansouri Azam , Ashrafi Farzaneh
Published: June 2013

Background. The role of gender for nephroprotectant agent such as vitamin E in cisplatin- (CP-) induced nephrotoxicity has not been documented yet. Methods. One group from each gender of Wistar rats received a single dose of CP (7 mg/kg; i.p) and was treated with vitamin E (1 g/kg/day) for 7 days, and they were compared with similar gender in the control group. Results. The serum levels of blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and creatinine (Cr) in male animals treated with CP was not different from the control group, but it was significantly different in the female rats (P<0.05). The CP-induced damage intensity in male kidney tissue was not significantly different between the CP-treated and control groups, but this was not the case in female, indicating that the tissue damage in female is significantly different from the control group (P<0.05). No significant difference in serum levels of magnesium (Mg), nitrite, malondialdehyde (MDA), and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) was seen between the genders. Kidney weight and body weight changes were statistically significant in both genders (P<0.05). Significant difference was observed in uterus weight between the two groups of female (P<0.05). Conclusion. Vitamin E may prevent CP-induced nephrotoxicity in male, but possibly it has not such nephroprotectant effect in female.
Blood Pressure Variability: Prognostic Value and Therapeutic Implications
Authors: Höcht Christian
Published: June 2013

Blood pressure variability (BPV) is considered nowadays a novel risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Early findings in sinoaortic denervated rats have clearly shown that enhanced fluctuation of blood pressure induced left ventricular hypertrophy, vascular stiffness, and renal lesion. A large number of clinical trials confirm that short-term and long-term blood pressure variability independently contributes to target organ damage, cardiovascular events, and mortality not only in hypertensive patients but also in subjects with diabetes mellitus and chronic kidney disease. Therefore, amelioration of BPV has been suggested as an additional target of the treatment of cardiovascular diseases. Preliminary evidence obtained from meta-analysis and controlled clinical trials has shown that antihypertensive classes differ in their ability to control excessive BP fluctuations with an impact in the prevention of cardiovascular events. Calcium channel blockers seem to be more effective than other blood pressure lowering drugs for the reduction of short-term and long-term BPV. In order to increase actual knowledge regarding the prognostic value and therapeutic significance of BPV in cardiovascular disease, there is a need for additional clinical studies specifically designed for the study of the relevance of short-term and long-term BPV control by antihypertensive drugs.
La prévention des difficultés de comportement chez les enfants du préscolaire : une recension des caractéristiques des programmes probants
Authors: Besnard Thérèse , Houle Andrée-Anne , Letarte Marie-Josée , Blackburn Maltais Annie-Pier
Published: June 2013

Cette recension propose une synthèse des critères d’efficacité des programmes probants visant la réduction des difficultés de comportement de type extériorisé ou la promotion des compétences sociales auprès des enfants du préscolaire. L’analyse a retenu les études évaluant rigoureusement les effets de programmes à partir de recensions et de méta-analyses. Les données ont été regroupées selon que les programmes ciblent les parents, les enfants ou plus d’un groupe à la fois. Une synthèse des caractéristiques des programmes efficaces est faite pour chacune des catégories. Les résultats montrent que les programmes multimodaux qui incluent une composante parentale sont recommandés.
An Examination of the Feasibility of Adventure-Based Therapy in Outpatient Care for Individuals With Psychosis
Authors: Bryson Jessica , Feinstein Jenna , Spavor John , Kidd Sean A.
Published: June 2013

Adventure-based therapy (ABT) involves experiential learning, outdoor education, group counselling, and intrapersonal education. While it has shown benefits in a number of populations including at-risk youth, little research has focused on individuals with psychosis. The objective of this study was to employ a mixed-methods pre-post design to examine the feasibility of a 6-week ABT intervention in an outpatient care setting among 15 adults with psychosis. The intervention proved feasible with significant improvements found in engagement in the recovery process, emotional well-being, and energy level. No changes in self-esteem or global health were observed.
Metal–Dielectric Core–Shell Nanoparticles: Advanced Plasmonic Architectures Towards Multiple Control of Random Lasers
Authors: Meng Xiangeng , Fujita Koji , Moriguchi Yusuke , Zong Yanhua , Tanaka Katsuhisa
Published: June 2013

Random lasing properties of dye solutions suspended with gold–silica core–shell nanoparticles are investigated. The core–shell architecture allows adjustment of plasmon coupling strength between metal and optical gain media by varying the thickness of dielectric shell. Consequently, multiple aspects of random lasers can be controlled, such as mode interactions, lasing spikiness, and pump threshold. The results show that bare gold nanoparticles give rise to the most profound lasing spikes that are evenly separated in resonant wavelength. The lowest threshold is observed when the shell thickness is ~14.6 nm. The experimental observations are interpreted in terms of resonant coupling between metal nanoparticles and fluorophores, localization of pump light and lasing modes at the surface of metal, as well as plasmonic modifications of absorption and pump rates of fluorophores. The results suggest that metal–dielectric core–shell nanostructures can serve as promising candidates towards development of well‐controlled random lasers.
Behavioral and physiological responses to subgroup size and number of people in howler monkeys inhabiting a forest fragment used for nature‐based tourism
Authors: Aguilar‐Melo Adriana R. , Andresen Ellen , Cristóbal‐Azkarate Jurgi , Arroyo‐Rodríguez Victor , Chavira Roberto , Schondube Jorge , Serio‐Silva Juan Carlos , Cuarón Alfredo D.
Published: June 2013

Animals' responses to potentially threatening factors can provide important information for their conservation. Group size and human presence are potentially threatening factors to primates inhabiting small reserves used for recreation. We tested these hypotheses by evaluating behavioral and physiological responses in two groups of mantled howler monkeys (Alouatta palliata mexicana) at the “Centro Ecológico y Recreativo El Zapotal”, a recreational forest reserve and zoo located in the Mexican state of Chiapas. Both groups presented fission‐fusion dynamics, splitting into foraging subgroups which varied in size among, but not within days. Neither subgroup size nor number of people had an effect on fecal cortisol. Out of 16 behavioral response variables tested, the studied factors had effects on six: four were affected by subgroup size and two were affected by number of people. With increasing subgroup size, monkeys increased daily path lengths, rested less, increased foraging effort, and used more plant individuals for feeding. As the number of people increased, monkeys spent more time in lower‐quality habitat, and less time engaged in social interactions. Although fecal cortisol levels were not affected by the factors studied, one of the monkey groups had almost twice the level of cortisol compared to the other group. The group with higher cortisol levels also spent significantly more time in the lower‐quality habitat, compared to the other group. Our results suggest that particular behavioral adjustments might allow howler monkeys at El Zapotal to avoid physiological stress due to subgroup size and number of people. However, the fact that one of the monkey groups is showing increased cortisol levels may be interpreted as a warning sign, indicating that an adjustment threshold is being reached, at least for part of the howler monkey population in this forest fragment. Am. J. Primatol. 75:1108–1116, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Bacteria in the nose of young adults during wellness and rhinovirus colds: detection by culture and microarray methods in 100 nasal lavage specimens
Authors: Allen E. Kaitlynn , Pitkäranta Anne , Mäki Minna , Hendley J. Owen , Laakso Sanna , Salei Michèle M. , Winther Birgit
Published: June 2013

Background

Patients  with  viral respiratory infections/viral rhinitis/common colds are often treated with antibiotic; however, there is little information on whether or how bacterial microbiota in the nose and nasopharynx might influence the course of viral illnesses.

Methods

To initiate investigation of possible interaction between viral respiratory illness and microbiota of the nose/nasopharynx, we used microarray technology to examine 100 nasal lavage fluid (NLF) samples for bacterial species and recorded the bacterial titer of culturable bacteria. Rhinovirus illnesses were induced by self‐inoculation using the “finger to nose or eye natural transmission route” in 10 otherwise healthy young adults. NLF samples were collected during wellness and at specific time points following experimental rhinovirus inoculation.

Results

The rhinovirus infection rate was 70%. There were no consistent changes in the prevalence of different bacterial species determined by microarray and bacterial titer by culture methods during rhinovirus infection. The bacterial profile in NLF samples showed high variability between volunteers but low variability in multiple NLFs obtained before and following infection from the same volunteer. Streptococcus epidermidis/coagulase‐negative staphylococcus (CNS) were identified in all 10 subjects. One or more bacterial sinus/otitis pathogens were identified by microarray in 6 of the 10 volunteers. The microarray identified a few bacteria not included in traditional bacterial cultures.

Conclusion

Our pilot study showed that each of the 10 volunteers had a unique bacterial profile in the nose by microarray analysis and that bacterial load did not change during experimental rhinovirus colds. Larger scale studies are warranted.
Intranasal sodium hyaluronate on the nasal cytology of patients with allergic and nonallergic rhinitis
Authors: Gelardi Matteo , Iannuzzi Lucia , Quaranta Nicola
Published: June 2013

Background

Rhinitis is an extremely common medical problem characterized by nasal congestion, clear rhinorrhea, sneezing, and itching. Hyaluronate is an endogenous compound that has an important role in mucociliary clearance by the epithelial surface of the nasal passages and in mucosal surface healing and repair. The objective of this work was to determine the effects of intranasal administration of sodium hyaluronate on nasal cytology in patients with allergic and nonallergic rhinitis.

Methods

In a single‐center, randomized, blinded trial, 78 patients received intranasal mometasone and oral desloratadine plus either intranasal sodium hyaluronate or saline for 1 month. Nasal cytology was performed and the change from baseline in the numbers of neutrophils, eosinophils, mast cells, lymphocytes, and infective species was determined. Other outcomes included changes in symptoms and the endoscopic appearance of the nasal mucosa, and tolerability.

Results

Patients receiving sodium hyaluronate experienced a significant decrease in the median neutrophil count seen on nasal cytology compared with controls (p = 0.001). Sodium hyaluronate was associated with significant improvements in sneezing, rhinorrhea, and nasal congestion, and on exudate seen on endoscopy at 1 month compared with baseline. Intranasal sodium hyaluronate received better tolerability scores than saline over the 1‐month treatment period.

Conclusion

The addition of sodium hyaluronate to intranasal corticosteroid and systemic antihistamine reduced the neutrophil count seen on nasal cytology in patients with allergic and nonallergic rhinitis and improved several clinical and endoscopic parameters while being well tolerated. These data provide encouraging evidence of the efficacy of sodium hyaluronate in the treatment of this common disease.
Synthesis and antimicrobial properties of a guanidine‐based oligomer grafted with a reactive cationic surfactant through Michael addition
Authors: Wang Bin , Liu Bailing , Peng Gang , Meng Xu , Jiang Zhengwu , Chen Hualin
Published: June 2013

A guanidine‐based oligomer grafted with a reactive cationic surfactant was designed and synthesized through Michael addition in an attempt to combine its antibacterial and emulsification properties. This was also an excellent and efficient strategy for preparing more kinds of guanidine derivatives. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, 1H‐NMR, and 13C‐NMR showed that the guanidine‐based oligomer grafted with reactive cationic surfactant was synthesized successfully. The antimicrobial activity and antimicrobial mechanism were investigated with several approaches. The antimicrobial activity results indicated that the introduction of a cationic surfactant into the guanidine‐based oligomer effectively raised the antimicrobial activity and showed a synergistic effect. The UV absorption at 260 nm was used to detect the dynamic antimicrobial process of the modified guanidine oligomer. Further, the results of scanning electron microscopy and atomic force microscopy implied that the antimicrobial mechanism of the modified guanidine oligomer changed the permeability of the cell membrane of the bacteria and caused the leakage of intracellular components of the Escherichia coli cells. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 130: 3489–3497, 2013
Soluble polyarylates containing phosphorus in main chains with thermal stability
Authors: Tian Chenxu , Liu Pengqing , Ye Guangdou , Xu Jianjun
Published: June 2013

A series of polyarylates containing phosphorus (pho‐PARs) were synthesized from bisphenol A with different molar ratios of bis‐(4‐carboxyphenyl) phenyl phosphine oxide (BCPPO) to terephthalic acid (TPA). When the contents of BCPPO are in the range of 0.4–1.0, the pho‐PARs are readily soluble in a wide range of organic solvents and have the glass transition temperatures of 243.0–260.4°C. The initial degradation temperatures of these pho‐PARs are all above 450°C and their char yields at 800°C under nitrogen atmosphere are in the range of 28.7–33.0%, suggesting they have excellent thermal stability. The results of TG‐FTIR and FT‐IR show the introduction of BCPPO change the decomposition model of the pho‐PARs. The limiting oxygen indexes are at a range of 30.7–34.5%, which suggests that the pho‐PARs are a kind of excellent inherent flame retardant materials. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 130: 3521–3529, 2013
Synthesis and Antioxidant Activities of Acetamidomethylsulfonyl Bis Heterocycles‐Oxazolyl/Thiazolyl/Imidazolyl‐1,3,4‐Oxadiazoles
Authors: Mahaboob Basha Nabhubygari , Lavanya Gopala , Padmaja Adivireddy , Padmavathi Venkatapuram
Published: June 2013

A new class of acetamidomethylsulfonyl bis heterocycles‐oxazolyl‐1,3,4‐oxadiazoles, ‐thiazolyl‐1,3,4‐oxadiazoles, and ‐imidazolyl‐1,3,4‐oxadiazoles were synthesized from the synthetic intermediates, methyl 2‐((4‐aryloxazol‐2‐ylcarbamoyl)methylsulfonyl)acetate, methyl 2‐((4‐arylthiazol‐2‐ylcarbamoyl)methylsulfonyl)acetate, and methyl 2‐((4‐aryl‐1H‐imidazol‐2‐ylcarbamoyl)methylsulfonyl)acetate. All the title compounds were tested for their antioxidant activity. The oxadiazolylmethylsulfonyloxazolylacetamide displayed excellent radical‐scavenging activity when compared with the standard ascorbic acid.
Predicting aortic complications after endovascular aneurysm repair
Authors: Karthikesalingam A , Holt P J , Vidal-Diez A , Choke E C , Patterson B O , Thompson L J , Ghatwary T , Bown M J , Sayers R D , Thompson M M
Published: June 2013

Background

Lifelong surveillance is standard after endovascular repair of abdominal aortic aneurysm (EVAR), but remains costly, heterogeneous and poorly calibrated. This study aimed to develop and validate a scoring system for aortic complications after EVAR, informing rationalized surveillance.

Methods

Patients undergoing EVAR at two centres were studied from 2004 to 2010. Preoperative morphology was quantified using three-dimensional computed tomography according to a validated protocol, by investigators blinded to outcomes. Proportional hazards modelling was used to identify factors predicting aortic complications at the first centre, and thereby derive a risk score. Sidak tests between risk quartiles dichotomized patients to low- or high-risk groups. Aortic complications were reported by Kaplan–Meier analysis and risk groups were compared by log rank test. External validation was by comparison of aortic complications between risk groups at the second centre.

Results

Some 761 patients, with a median age of 75 (interquartile range 70–80) years, underwent EVAR. Median follow-up was 36 (range 11–94) months. Physiological variables were not associated with aortic complications. A morphological risk score incorporating maximum aneurysm diameter (P < 0·001) and largest common iliac diameter (measured 10 mm from the internal iliac origin; P = 0·004) allocated 75 per cent of patients to a low-risk group, with excellent discrimination between 5-year rates of aortic complication in low- and high-risk groups at both centres (centre 1: 12 versus 31 per cent, P < 0·001; centre 2: 12 versus 45 per cent, P = 0·002).

Conclusion

The risk score uses commonly available morphological data to stratify the rate of complications after EVAR. The proposals for rationalized surveillance could provide clinical and economic benefits.
Free light chain content in culture media reflects recombinant monoclonal antibody productivity and quality
Authors: Bhoskar Prachi , Belongia Brett , Smith Robert , Yoon Seongkyu , Carter Tyler , Xu Jin
Published: June 2013

Monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) are currently the dominant class of biopharmaceuticals. Due to the high dosage requirements of most mAb therapeutics, high productivity and low aggregation are prevailing criteria during cell line generation and process development. Given that light chains (LCs) play an important role in antibody folding and assembly, and that most mAb producing cell lines also manufacture free LCs, we sought to investigate whether there was a relationship between free LC levels in cell culture media and mAb productivity/quality. To this end, a series of analytical methods were developed in order to quantify free LC content in cell culture media and assess mAb productivity and aggregation levels. Afterwards, conditioned media samples from different cell lines at identical culturing conditions and a single clone under varying culturing conditions were analyzed. Higher LC expression was found to correlate with higher cell viability, higher mAb productivity, and lower aggregation. While LC expression cannot yet be definitively considered the root cause of these phenomena, these results are consistent with the role of LCs in mAb production, suggesting that free LC expression levels may potentially serve as a parameter for cell line generation and cell culture process optimization. © 2013 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Biotechnol. Prog., 29:1131–1139, 2013
Modeling of transient flow through a viscoelastic preparative chromatography packing
Authors: Hekmat Dariusch , Kuhn Michael , Meinhardt Verena , Weuster‐Botz Dirk
Published: June 2013

The common method for purification of macromolecular bioproducts is preparative packed‐bed chromatography using polymer‐based, compressible, viscoelastic resins. Because of a downstream processing bottleneck, the chromatography equipment is often operated at its hydrodynamic limit. In this case, the resins may exhibit a complex behavior which results in compression–relaxation hystereses. Up to now, no modeling approach of transient flow through a chromatography packing has been made considering the viscoelasticity of the resins. The aim of the present work was to develop a novel model and compare model calculations with experimental data of two agarose‐based resins. Fluid flow and bed permeability were modeled by Darcy's law and the Kozeny–Carman equation, respectively. Fluid flow was coupled to solid matrix stress via an axial force balance and a continuity equation of a deformable packing. Viscoelasticity was considered according to a Kelvin–Voigt material. The coupled equations were solved with a finite difference scheme using a deformable mesh. The model boundary conditions were preset transient pressure drop functions which resemble simulated load/elution/equilibration cycles. Calculations using a homogeneous model (assuming constant variables along the column height) gave a fair agreement with experimental data with regard to predicted flow rate, bed height, and compression–relaxation hysteresis for symmetric as well as asymmetric pressure drop functions. Calculations using an inhomogeneous model gave profiles of the bed porosity as a function of the bed height. In addition, the influence of medium wall support and intraparticle porosity was illustrated. The inhomogeneous model provides insights that so far are not easily experimentally accessible. © 2013 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Biotechnol. Prog., 29:958–967, 2013
Understanding the Causal Pathways to Child Maltreatment: Implications for Health and Social Care Policy and Practice
Authors: Munro Eileen , Taylor Julie S. , Bradbury‐Jones Caroline
Published: June 2013

This article examines current understandings regarding the causes of child maltreatment and its prediction and prevention. The answers to why some people hurt children, when others in similar circumstances do not, remain obstinately elusive. We look to philosophy to help understand the complexity of causal pathways of maltreatment. We draw on the seminal work of Mackie () on probabilistic causation and his notion of the ‘INUS condition’ (INUS is the acronym for insufficient but non‐redundant part of a condition that is itself unnecessary but sufficient for the result). This theory holds particular relevance for exploring complex social phenomena. Taking child abuse as an issue, we show how the concept of the INUS condition offers a new way of thinking about causal factors when they are neither necessary nor sufficient. It can be applied to clarify the complex nexus of potential risk factors that may – or may not – ‘cause’ adult perpetration of abuse. It also provides a framework for integrating the research on resilience factors with that on risk. Finally, we discuss the lessons for research, policy and practice that arise from this way of conceptualising the underlying causality of child maltreatment. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

‘The concept of the INUS condition offers a new way of thinking about causal factors’

Key Practitioner Messages:

There have been major efforts to create models of risk and prediction in child protection but it remains an imprecise science.

Risk factors appear to be neither necessary nor sufficient conditions for maltreatment to occur.

In this article, we adopt a philosophical position to help make sense of the complex causation of maltreatment.

We show the implications of these new perspectives for health and social care policy and practice.