College of Saint Benedict and Saint John's University
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Can Theta Wave Induction Lower Inflammation and Alcohol Consumption in Mice?
Get PDFOverconsumption of alcohol is one cause of chronic inflammation, which appears to be mediated by the canonical NF-kB pathway. TLR4 (a pathogen and damage associated molecular pattern receptor) and HMGB1 (a nuclear DNA binding protein and damage associated pattern molecule) levels are elevated in postmortem brains of chronic alcoholics. Meditation has been found to be effective in treating excessive alcohol drinking as it elicits both psychological and biochemical effects through theta wave induction throughout the brain. We propose that meditation lowers expression of inflammatory markers in the brain and systemically, as well as elicits behavioral changes that lead to a decrease in ethanol consumption. We will mimic a meditative state using optogenetics to stimulate rhythmic theta waves in discrete areas of the brain. We will then measure changes in expression of molecules associated with the inflammatory state and correlate them with behavioral changes. The study of these interactions may provide potential new targets for therapeutic intervention
The Everyday Life of Urban Inequality : Ethnographic Case Studies of Global Cities
No full textThe Everyday Life of Urban Inequality explores how steadily increasing inequality and the spectacular pace of urbanization frame everyday life for city residents around the world. With case studies from five continents, this volume explores what it means to live within cities marked by entrenched inequalities, situating daily life at the intersection between global processes and local histories. Drawing from ethnographic research, scholars in varied social science disciplines examine the reproduction of poverty and stratification, the creation of political and social marginality, and the destruction—and resilience—of communities. (publisher\u27s description)https://digitalcommons.csbsju.edu/sociology_books/1012/thumbnail.jp
The Mischaracterization of the Pakhtun-Islamic Peace Culture Created by Abdul Ghaffar Khan and the Khudai Khidmatgars
Get PDFAbdul Ghaffar Khan and his Khudai Khidmatgar Movement, whose peace activities included nonviolent resistance to British rule in India, have remained relatively unknown despite the magnitude of their achievement and significance (100,000 strong peace army). Even among appreciative peace scholars their nonviolence has been mischaracterized as an adoption of Gandhi’s teachings; Khan is referred to as the Muslim Gandhi. I argue that this is due to a reliance on biased colonial sources, concomitant racist characterization of the Pakhtuns and Islam, and an insufficient understanding of violence. I illustrate how this movement’s motivation and inspiration were deeply rooted in Pakhtun culture and Islam, even though Khan and Gandhi were spiritually alike, with the same peace cultural commitments, working together for independence. A better understanding of this movement’s origins as indigenous is crucial to avoid the vilification of these people that continues to justify violence against them, constraining them to respond likewise
undErToLd Episode 1: ETL and Ethical Storytelling
No full textIn this episode, Extending the Link discusses ETL’s history, mission, and vision with past co-directors Andrea Carrow Morsching, Brennan Lafeber, and Rachel Mullin. Dr. Scott Richardson also provides insight on how to uplift and amplify community voices through ethical storytelling
Being Sober and Becoming Happy
Get PDFDr. John MacDougall\u27s lecture is an accessible introduction to sobriety over a lifetime — and enjoying the happiness that comes along with it. For anyone curious about the benefits of a Twelve Step program for addiction, or anyone in recovery who is looking for a way to grow their spirituality, MacDougall shines a light on an uncertain path in an open, honest discussion of his own experiences with addiction and recovery