bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Stringent Response Is Required for
Helicobacter pylori
Survival of Stationary Phase, Exposure to Acid, and Aerobic Shock
Authors: Mouery Kyle , Rader Bethany A. , Gaynor Erin C. , Guillemin Karen
Published: July 2006

The gastric pathogen
Helicobacter pylori
must adapt to fluctuating conditions in the harsh environment of the human stomach with the use of a minimal number of transcriptional regulators. We investigated whether
H. pylori
utilizes the stringent response, involving signaling through the alarmone (p)ppGpp, as a survival strategy during environmental stresses. We show that the
H. pylori
homologue of the bifunctional (p)ppGpp synthetase and hydrolase SpoT is responsible for all cellular (p)ppGpp production in response to starvation conditions. Furthermore, the
H. pylori spoT
gene complements the growth defect of
Escherichia coli
mutants lacking (p)ppGpp. An
H. pylori spoT
deletion mutant is impaired for stationary-phase survival and undergoes a premature transformation to a coccoid morphology. In addition, the
spoT
deletion mutant is unable to survive specific environmental stresses, including aerobic shock and acid exposure, which are likely to be encountered by this bacterium during infection and transmission.
Transcriptional Profile of
Haemophilus influenzae
: Effects of Iron and Heme
Authors: Whitby Paul W. , VanWagoner Timothy M. , Seale Thomas W. , Morton Daniel J. , Stull Terrence L.
Published: July 2006

Haemophilus influenzae
requires either heme or a porphyrin and iron source for growth. Microarray studies of
H. influenzae
strain Rd KW20 identified 162 iron/heme-regulated genes, representing ∼10% of the genome, with ≥1.5-fold changes in transcription in response to iron/heme availability in vitro. Eighty genes were preferentially expressed under iron/heme restriction; 82 genes were preferentially expressed under iron/heme-replete conditions.
Mutational Analysis of the Promoter Recognized by
Chlamydia
and
Escherichia coli
σ
28
RNA Polymerase
Authors: Yu Hilda Hiu Yin , Di Russo Elizabeth G. , Rounds Megan A. , Tan Ming
Published: July 2006

σ
28
RNA polymerase is an alternative RNA polymerase that has been postulated to have a role in developmental gene regulation in
Chlamydia
. Although a consensus bacterial σ
28
promoter sequence has been proposed, it is based on a relatively small number of defined promoters, and the promoter structure has not been systematically analyzed. To evaluate the sequence of the σ
28
-dependent promoter, we performed a comprehensive mutational analysis of the
Chlamydia trachomatis hctB
promoter, testing the effect of point substitutions on promoter activity. We defined a −35 element recognized by chlamydial σ
28
RNA polymerase that resembles the consensus −35 sequence. Within the −10 element, however, chlamydial σ
28
RNA polymerase showed a striking preference for a CGA sequence at positions −12 to −10 rather than the longer consensus −10 sequence. We also observed a strong preference for this CGA sequence by
Escherichia coli
σ
28
RNA polymerase, suggesting that this previously unrecognized motif is the critical component of the −10 promoter element recognized by σ
28
RNA polymerase. Although the consensus spacer length is 11 nucleotides (nt), we found that σ
28
RNA polymerase from both
Chlamydia
and
E. coli
transcribed a promoter with either an 11- or 12-nt spacer equally well. Altogether, we found very similar results for σ
28
RNA polymerase from
C. trachomatis
and
E. coli
, suggesting that promoter recognition by this alternative RNA polymerase is well conserved among bacteria. The preferred σ
28
promoter that we defined in the context of the
hctB
promoter is TAAAGwwy-n
11/12
-ryCGAwrn, where w is A or T, r is a purine, y is a pyrimidine, n is any nucleotide, and n
11/12
is a spacer of 11 or 12 nt.
Transcription of the
pst
Operon of
Clostridium acetobutylicum
Is Dependent on Phosphate Concentration and pH
Authors: Fischer Ralf-Jörg , Oehmcke Sonja , Meyer Uta , Mix Maren , Schwarz Katrin , Fiedler Tomas , Bahl Hubert
Published: July 2006

The
pst
operon of
Clostridium acetobutylicum
ATCC 824 comprises five genes,
pstS
,
pstC
,
pstA
,
pstB
, and
phoU
, and shows a gene architecture identical to that of
Escherichia coli
. Deduced proteins are predicted to represent a high-affinity
p
hosphate-
s
pecific ABC (ATP-binding cassette)
t
ransport system (Pst) and a protein homologous to PhoU, a negative phosphate regulon regulator. We analyzed the expression patterns of the
pst
operon in P
i
-limited chemostat cultures during acid production at pH 5.8 or solvent production at pH 4.5 and in response to P
i
pulses. Specific mRNA transcripts were found only when external P
i
concentrations had dropped below 0.2 mM. Two specific transcripts were detected, a 4.7-kb polycistronic mRNA spanning the whole operon and a quantitatively dominating 1.2-kb mRNA representing the first gene,
pstS
. The mRNA levels clearly differed depending on the external pH. The amounts of the full-length mRNA detected were about two times higher at pH 5.8 than at pH 4.5. The level of
pstS
mRNA increased by a factor of at least 8 at pH 5.8 compared to pH 4.5 results. Primer extension experiments revealed only one putative transcription start point 80 nucleotides upstream of
pstS
. Thus, additional regulatory sites are proposed in the promoter region, integrating two different extracellular signals, namely, depletion of inorganic phosphate and the pH of the environment. After phosphate pulses were applied to a phosphate-limited chemostat we observed faster phosphate consumption at pH 5.8 than at pH 4.5, although higher optical densities were recorded at pH 4.5.
The FAD-Dependent Tricarballylate Dehydrogenase (TcuA) Enzyme of
Salmonella enterica
Converts Tricarballylate into
cis
-Aconitate
Authors: Lewis Jeffrey A. , Escalante-Semerena Jorge C.
Published: July 2006

Tricarballylate is the causative agent of grass tetany, a ruminant disease characterized by acute magnesium deficiency. Tricarballylate toxicity has been attributed to its ability to chelate magnesium and to inhibit aconitase, a Krebs cycle enzyme. Neither the ruminant nor the normal rumen flora can catabolize tricarballylate to ameliorate its toxic effects. However, the gram-negative enterobacterium
Salmonella enterica
can use tricarballylate as a carbon and energy source, providing an opportunity to study the genes and enzymes required for tricarballylate catabolism. The tricarballylate utilization (
tcu
) genes are organized into two transcriptional units, i.e.,
tcuR
and
tcuABC
. Here, we report the initial biochemical analysis of TcuA. TcuA catalyzed the oxidation of tricarballylate to
cis
-aconitate. The apparent

K
m

of TcuA for tricarballylate was 3.8 ± 0.4 mM, with a
V
max
of 7.9 ± 0.3 mM min
−1
, turnover number (
k
cat
) of 6.7 × 10
−2
s
−1
, and a catalytic efficiency (
k
cat
/

K
m

) of 17.8 M
−1
s
−1
. Optimal activity was measured at pH 7.5 and 30°C. The enzyme was inactivated at 45°C. One mole of FAD was present per mole of TcuA. We propose a role for TcuB as an electron shuttle protein responsible for oxidizing FADH
2
back to FAD in TcuA.
Phase Variation and Genomic Architecture Changes inAzospirillum
Authors: Vial Ludovic , Lavire Céline , Mavingui Patrick , Blaha Didier , Haurat Jacqueline , Moënne-Loccoz Yvan , Bally René , Wisniewski-Dyé Florence
Published: July 2006

The plant growth-promoting rhizobacteriumAzospirillum lipoferum4B generates in vitro at high frequency a stable nonswimming phase variant designated 4VI, which is distinguishable from the wild type by the differential absorption of dyes. The frequency of variants generated by arecAmutant ofA. lipoferum4B was increased up to 10-fold. The pleiotropic modifications characteristic of the phase variant are well documented, but the molecular processes involved are unknown. Here, the objective was to assess whether genomic rearrangements take place during phase variation of strain 4B. The random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) profiles of strains 4B and 4VIdiffered. RAPD fragments observed only with the wild type were cloned, and three cosmids carrying the corresponding fragments were isolated. The three cosmids hybridized with a 750-kb plasmid and pulse-field gel electrophoresis analysis revealed that this replicon was missing in the 4VIgenome. The same rearrangements took place during phase variation of 4BrecA. Large-scale genomic rearrangements during phase variation were demonstrated for two additional strains. InAzospirillum brasilenseWN1, generation of stable variants was correlated with the disappearance of a replicon of 260 kb. ForAzospirillum irakenseKBC1, the variant was not stable and coincided with the formation of a new replicon, whereas the revertant recovered the parental genomic architecture. This study shows large-scale genomic rearrangements inAzospirillumstrains and correlates them with phase variation.
Apoptosis in skeletal muscle myotubes is induced by ceramides and is positively related to insulin resistance
Authors: Turpin Sarah M. , Lancaster Graeme I. , Darby Ian , Febbraio Mark A. , Watt Matthew J.
Published: July 2006

Fatty acid-induced apoptosis occurs in pancreatic β-cells and contributes to the metabolic syndrome. Skeletal muscle insulin resistance is mediated by fatty acid oversupply, which also contributes to the metabolic syndrome. Therefore, we examined whether fatty acids induce apoptosis in skeletal muscle myotubes, the proapoptotic signaling involved, and the effects on insulin sensitivity. Exposure of L6 myotubes to palmitate induced apoptosis, as demonstrated by increased caspase-3 activation, phosphatidylserine exposure on the plasma membrane, and terminal deoxynucleotide transferase dUTP nick end labeling and DNA laddering, both markers of DNA fragmentation. Ceramide content was concomitantly increased, indicating a potential role for ceramides in palmitate-induced apoptosis. Supporting this notion, reducing stearoyl-CoA desaturase-1 (SCD-1) protein content with short interfering RNA resulted in ceramide accumulation and was associated with increased apoptosis in the absence of palmitate. Furthermore, the membrane-permeable C2-ceramide enhanced apoptosis in myotubes, whereas the ceramide synthase inhibitor, fumonisin B1, abrogated the proapoptotic effects of palmitate. Insulin-stimulated glucose uptake was inhibited by palmitate treatment, whereas the addition of effector caspase inhibitors [Ac-DEVD-aldehyde (DEVD-CHO), Z-DQMD-FMK] independently restored >80% of the insulin-stimulated glucose uptake. These effects were observed independently from changes in the protein content of insulin signaling proteins, suggesting that proteosomal degradation is not involved in this process. We conclude that lipoapoptosis occurs in skeletal muscle myotubes, at least partially via de novo ceramide accumulation, and that inhibiting downstream apoptotic signaling improves glucose uptake in vitro.
Antagonism of endogenous putative P2Y receptors reduces the growth of MDCK-derived cysts cultured in vitro
Authors: Turner Clare M. , King Brian F. , Srai Kaila S. , Unwin Robert J.
Published: July 2006

P2Y receptors couple to G proteins and either mobilize intracellular Ca2+or alter cAMP levels to modulate the activity of Ca2+- and cAMP-sensitive ion channels. We hypothesize that increased ion transport into the lumen of MDCK cysts can osmotically drive fluid movement and increase cyst size. Furthermore, activation of the adenylate cyclase/cAMP pathway may trigger cell proliferation via an extracellular signal-related kinase cascade. To test this hypothesis, several P2Y receptor inhibitors were used on the MDCK in vitro model of renal cyst formation. The nonspecific P2 receptor inhibitors reactive blue 2 and suramin reduced cyst growth significantly, as did PPADS and, to a lesser extent, the P2Y1-specific antagonist MRS2179. Cyst growth was reduced by ∼50% when ATP was removed from the culture medium with apyrase, although stable analogs of ATP failed to increase cyst size. The nonselective P2X receptor inhibitor Coomassie brilliant blue G was ineffective at reducing cyst growth, suggesting no involvement of P2X receptors. Finally, the presence of selective inhibitors of ERK activation (either PD98059 or U0126) greatly reduced cyst growth, whereas in untreated cysts ERK activity was observed to increase with time. We conclude that stimulation of endogenous P2Y receptors by extracellular ATP increases growth of MDCK cysts via cAMP-dependent activation of the ERK pathway. P2Y receptor antagonists may have therapeutic potential in reducing cyst size and slowing disease progression; although further studies in vitro and in vivo are needed to investigate the specificity and role of these P2Y receptors in renal cystic diseases.
Myogenic vasoconstriction in mouse renal interlobar arteries: role of endogenous β and γENaC
Authors: Jernigan Nikki L. , Drummond Heather A.
Published: July 2006

Mechanosensitive ion channels are thought to initiate pressure-induced vasoconstriction, however, the molecular identity of these channels is unknown. Recent work from our laboratory suggests that members of the Degenerin/Epithelial Na+ Channel (DEG/ENaC) family may be components of the mechanosensitive ion channel complex in vascular smooth muscle (VSM); however, the specific DEG/ENaC proteins mediating myogenic constriction are unknown. The goal of this study is to determine if specific knockdown of β or γENaC, using dominant-negative (DN) or small-interference RNA (siRNA) molecules, inhibits pressure-induced vasoconstriction in mouse renal interlobar arteries. To address this goal, isolated arteries were transiently transfected with β or γENaC DN-cDNA or siRNA molecules. After 24 h, vessels were either 1) cannulated and pressurized for pressure-diameter response curves or 2) dissociated and immunolabeled to determine VSM cell endogenous ENaC protein expression. We found that transfection of βENaC DN-cDNA or siRNA suppresses β-, but not γENaC protein expression. Similarly, γENaC DN-cDNA or siRNA suppresses γ-, but not βENaC protein expression. In addition, transfection of β- or γENaC DN-cDNA or siRNA molecules inhibits pressure-induced vasoconstriction, but does not block agonist-induced vasoconstriction. Our results provide the first direct evidence that β and γENaC proteins are essential in mediating myogenic vasoconstriction in mouse renal interlobar arteries.
Monocular Cells Without Ocular Dominance Columns
Authors: Adams Daniel L. , Horton Jonathan C.
Published: July 2006

In many regions of the mammalian cerebral cortex, cells that share a common receptive field property are grouped into columns. Despite intensive study, the function of the cortical column remains unknown. In the squirrel monkey, the expression of ocular dominance columns is variable, with columns present in some animals and not in others. By searching for differences between animals with and without columns, it should be possible to infer how columns contribute to visual processing. Single-cell recordings outside layer 4C were made in nine squirrel monkeys, followed by labeling of ocular dominance columns in layer 4C. In the squirrel monkey, compared with the macaque, cells outside layer 4C were more likely to respond to stimulation of either eye whether ocular dominance columns were present or not. In three animals lacking ocular dominance columns, single cells were recorded from layer 4C. Remarkably, 20% of cells in layer 4C were monocular despite the absence of columns. This observation means that ocular dominance columns are not necessary for monocular cells to occur in striate cortex. In macaques each row of cytochrome oxidase (CO) patches is aligned with an ocular dominance column and receives koniocellular input serving one eye only. In squirrel monkeys this was not true: CO patches and ocular dominance columns had no spatial correlation and the koniocellular input to CO patches was binocular. Thus even when ocular dominance columns occur in the squirrel monkey, they do not transform the functional architecture to resemble that of the macaque.
Effects of Task Difficulty and Target Likelihood in Area V4 of Macaque Monkeys
Authors: Boudreau C. Elizabeth , Williford Tori H. , Maunsell John H. R.
Published: July 2006

Spatial attention improves performance at attended locations and correspondingly modulates firing rates of cortical neurons. The size of these behavioral and neuronal effects depends on the difficulty of the task performed at the attended location. Psychological theorists have attributed this to a tighter focus of a fixed amount of processing resource at the attended location, but the effects of task difficulty on the distribution of neuronal effects of attention across the visual field have not been fully explored. We trained rhesus monkeys to do a detection task in which difficulty and spatial attention were manipulated independently. Probe stimuli were used to measure behavioral performance in different conditions of attention and difficulty. Animals performed better at attended locations and this advantage increased with difficulty, consistent with data from human psychophysics. Neuronal modulation by spatial attention was larger with greater difficulty. In two animals, increasing difficulty caused a modest increase in neuronal responses to visual stimuli regardless of the locus of spatial attention. In a third animal, which was previously trained to ignore multiple distracting stimuli, increasing task difficulty increased responses at the focus of attention and suppressed responses away from the focus of attention. The results show that difficulty can modulate effects of spatial attention in V4; it can alter the distribution of sensory responses across the visual scene in ways that may depend on the subject's behavioral strategy.
On-Line Attentional Selection From Competing Stimuli in Opposite Visual Fields: Effects on Human Visual Cortex and Control Processes
Authors: Geng Joy J. , Eger Evelyn , Ruff Christian C. , Kristjánsson Árni , Rotshtein Pia , Driver Jon
Published: July 2006

We used fMRI to investigate competition and on-line attentional selection between targets and distractors in opposite visual hemifields. Displays comprised a high-contrast square-wave grating, defined as target by its orientation, presented alone (unilateral) or with a similar distractor of orthogonal orientation in the opposite hemifield (bilateral displays). The target appeared unpredictably on the left or right, precluding anticipatory attention to one side. We found greater activation in target-contralateral superior occipital gyrus for unilateral than for bilateral displays, indicating suppression of the target’s visual representation by distractor presence despite the competing distractor projecting to a different occipital hemisphere. Several frontal and parietal regions showed greater activation for bilateral than unilateral trials, suggesting involvement in on-line attentional selection. This was particularly pronounced for regions in bilateral intraparietal sulcus (IPS), which also showed greater functional coupling with occipital cortex specifically on bilateral trials that required selection plus some repetition-suppression effects when target side was repeated, but again only on bilateral trials requiring selection. Our results indicate that competition between visual stimuli in opposite hemifields can influence occipital cortex, and implicate IPS in resolution of this competition by selection.
Defective carbohydrate metabolism in mice homozygous for the tubby mutation
Authors: Wang Yun , Seburn Kevin , Bechtel Lawrence , Lee Bruce Y. , Szatkiewicz Jin P. , Nishina Patsy M. , Naggert Jürgen K.
Published: July 2006

Tub is a member of a small gene family, the tubby-like proteins (TULPs), with predominant expression in neurons. Mice carrying a mutation in Tub develop retinal and cochlear degeneration as well as late-onset obesity with insulin resistance. During behavioral and metabolic testing, we found that homozygous C57BL/6J- Tubtubmice have a lower respiratory quotient than C57BL/6J controls before the onset of obesity, indicating that tubby homozygotes fail to activate carbohydrate metabolism and instead rely on fat metabolism for energy needs. In concordance with this, tubby mice show higher excretion of ketone bodies and accumulation of glycogen in the liver. Quantitation of liver mRNA levels shows that, during the transition from light to dark period, tubby mice fail to induce glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase ( G6pdh), the rate-limiting enzyme in the pentose phosphate pathway that normally supplies NADPH for de novo fatty acid synthesis and glutathione reduction. Reduced G6PDH protein levels and enzymatic activity in tubby mice lead accordingly to lower levels of NADPH and reduced glutathione (GSH), respectively. mRNA levels for the lipolytic enzymes acetyl-CoA synthetase and carnitine palmitoyltransferase are increased during the dark cycle and decreased during the light period, and several citric acid cycle genes are dysregulated in tubby mice. Examination of hypothalamic gene expression showed high levels of preproorexin mRNA leading to accumulation of orexin peptide in the lateral hypothalamus. We hypothesize that abnormal hypothalamic orexin expression leads to changes in liver carbohydrate metabolism and may contribute to the moderate obesity observed in tubby mice.
Anti-Inflammatory Treatment with Standardized Human Serum Protein Solution Reduces Local and Systemic Inflammatory Response after Hemorrhagic Shock
Authors: Lauterbach Michael , Horstick Georg , Kempf Tibor , Weilemann L.S. , Münzel Thomas , Kempski Oliver
Published: July 2006

Objective: Reperfusion after hemorrhagic shock leads to local and systemic inflammatory response. This study evaluates the effect of a short-term treatment with standardized human serum protein solution (SPS) on the local and systemic inflammatory response in the mesenteric microcirculation in the rat. Methods: Spontaneously breathing animals underwent median laparotomy and exteriorization of an ileal loop for intravital microscopy of the mesenteric microcirculation. Volume-controlled hemorrhagic shock was set by arterial blood withdrawal (2.5 ml/100 g body weight for 60 min), followed by reperfusion for 4 h. SPS (n = 10) or saline 0.9% (controls, n = 10) was given intravenously as a continuous infusion for 30 min at the beginning of reperfusion (‘pre-hospital’). This was followed in both groups by substitution of blood and normal saline to support blood pressure (‘in-hospital’). Systemic hemodynamics, mesenteric microcirculation and arterial blood gases were monitored before, during and after shock, and for 4 h after initiation of reperfusion. Results: SPS treatment markedly reduced leukocyte/endothelial interaction, and reduced the need for intravenous fluids compared to controls. For the entire observation period, blood pH was unchanged from baseline only in SPS-treated animals. The improvement of base excess and abdominal blood flow persisted for 2 h after SPS infusion. Conclusion: Short-term SPS treatment of hemorrhagic shock improved mesenteric microcirculation, arterial blood gases and global hemodynamics, and attenuated the inflammatory response to reperfusion. It may provide clinical benefit when applied at an early phase of reperfusion after hemorrhagic shock.
Establishment of the 1st International Genetic Reference Panel for Factor V Leiden, human gDNA
Authors: Hawkins J. , Morrison Marion , Hawkins Malcolm , Byrne Ed , Kitchen Steve , Jennings Ian , Makris Mike , Preston F. , Metcalfe Paul , Gray Elaine
Published: July 2006

Forty-one laboratories participated in an international collaborative study to assess the suitability of a panel of three genomic DNA samples as the 1st International Genetic Reference Panel for the Factor V Leiden (FVL) variant.The code numbers of the materials were 03/254 (FV wild type), 03/260 (FVL homozygote) and 03/248 (FVL heterozygote).The participants evaluated the panel against their in-house controls which were known patient samples and commercial controls. In total, 859 genotype tests were carried out on the panel, with an error rate of 0.7%.The errors were not related to specific samples of the panel or to any specific techniques.The findings of this study have indicated that this panel is suitable to be used as a reference material for genotyping of factor V Leiden. It was therefore recommended that the three genomic DNA samples be established as the 1st International Genetic Reference Panel for Factor V Leiden, Human gDNA, 04/224. This recommendation was approved by the Scientific and Standardization Committee (SSC) of the ISTH (International Society on Thrombosis and Haemostasis) in June 2004 and the Expert Committee on Biological Standardization (ECBS) of theWorld Health Organization (WHO) in November 2004.
Assessment of genetic risk for myocardial infarction
Authors: Matsuo Hitoshi , Segawa Tomonori , Watanabe Sachiro , Kato Kimihiko , Hibino Takeshi , Yokoi Kiyoshi , Ichihara Sahoko , Metoki Norifumi , Yoshida Hidemi , Satoh Kei , Nozawa Yoshinori , Yamada Yoshiji
Published: July 2006

Although lifestyle and environmental factors influence the prevalence of myocardial infarction, genetic epidemiological studies have suggested that several genetic variants increase the risk for this condition. We have performeda large-scale association study to identify gene polymorphisms for reliable assessment of the genetic risk of myocardial infarction. The study population comprised 3,483 unrelated Japanese individuals (1,913 men; 1,570 women), including 1,192 subjects with myocardial infarction and 2,291 controls. The genotypes for 164 polymorphisms of 137 candidate genes were determined with an oligonucleotide ligation assay based on analysis of fluorescent microspheres with suspension array technology. Multivariable logistic regression analysis with adjustment for age, sex, body mass index, and the prevalence of smoking, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, and hypercholesterolemia revealed that the 677C→T (Ala222Val) polymorphism of MTHFR, the 1595C→G (Ser447Stop) polymorphism of LPL, and the –108/3G→4G polymorphism of IPF1 were significantly associated with the prevalence of myocardial infarction. A stepwise forward selection procedure demonstrated that IPF1, MTHFR, and LPL genotypes significantly affected the prevalence of myocardial infarction. Combined genotype analysis of these polymorphisms yieldeda maximum odds ratio of 2.54 for the combined genotype of TT for MTHFR,CC for LPL,and 3G3G for IPF1.The genotypes for MTHFR, LPL, and IPF1 may prove reliable for assessment of genetic risk for myocardial infarction. Determination of the combined genotype for these genes may contribute to primary, personalized prevention of this condition.
The efficacy of rituximab in the treatment of inhibitor-associated hemostatic disorders
Authors: Veneri Dino , Lippi Giuseppe , Stenner Rachel , Franchini Massimo
Published: July 2006

Rituximab is a chimeric anti-CD20 monoclonal antibody active against normal and malignant B cells which has proven to be effective in the therapy of CD-20 positive lymphomas. Its B-cell cytotoxic action has also been exploited in many non-malignant autoimmune disorders in which it has been used with the aim of interfering with the production of pathologic antibodies. The present knowledge regarding the use of rituximab in antibodyassociated disorders of hemostasis (i.e. idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura, thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura, acquired hemophilia A, congenital hemophilia with inhibitors, acquired inhibitors against coagulation factors) is presented briefly in this review. The results suggest that rituximab can be useful in the treatment of disorders of hemostasis associated with inhibitor formation. Although collectively the number of patients treated is now quite substantial, most of the data are drawn from isolated case reports or descriptions of small, uncontrolled series. Large, prospective, randomized trials are, therefore, needed to confirm the positive, preliminary results.
Ghanaian Sects in the United States of America and their Adherents within the Framework of Migration Challenges since the 1970s
Authors: Dapaah EdwardOpoku
Published: July 2006

Ghanaian culture revolves around religion hence it is not surprising that Ghanaians have established sects upon resettlement in the United States of America. However, the sects have changed the social organization of the adherents. Instead of mainstream institutions, adherents depend on the spiritual leaders of their sect in dealing with immigration, unemployment, illness and other social problems. The study contends that there are relevant characteristics of some Ghanaians that make it likely that they would be drawn to the sects. Some adherents are drawn to the sects as a result of profound post-migration insecurities including the threat of deportation and limited entitlements such as the denial of employment and educational rights. To such adherents the sects are an important avenue for resolving their post-migration insecurities. Results of this research also suggest that some Ghanaians are drawn to the sects by religious aspirations including the unique theology of the sect. Overall, the sects are not just a transfer of an important segment of indigenous life in Ghana to the United States of America, they also represent a miniature portrait of the changing nature of religion in the United States.
Urban Agriculture as a Global Economic Activity with Special Reference to the City of Lubumbashi in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC)
Authors: Tambwe Nyumbaiza
Published: July 2006

According to the UNDP (1996), about 800 million people are involved in urban food production with 200 million doing so for commercial reasons. Considering its rapid expansion all over the world, especially in African countries, urban agriculture is mostly regarded as a survival strategy. The attempt in this paper is to answer the following question: are people pushed into urban farming because they have no choice or are they engaged in urban agriculture because they know they can make a good living out of it? The article identifies several factors that force urban dwellers to resort to agricultural activities, as well as those that attract them for nutritional, financial and social reasons. These factors include, structural adjustment programs, decline in world prices of the primary commodities, economic crisis, low wage or salary, unemployment, rapid population growth, war, poverty, etc., which have led urban people to cultivate or raise animals or livestock. At the same time, urban agriculture has been proven as source of food, income and employment. The study is based on documentary sources, including books, articles, magazines, the Internet and the online publications. It also relies on primary sources from semi-structural interviews conducted in the city of Lubumbashi from November 2004 to March 2005.
Belonging and Becoming: National Identity and Exclusion
Authors: Bond Ross
Published: July 2006

This article considers how the increasing national and ethnic diversity typical of many contemporary societies relates to conceptions of national identity in such societies. Particular concern is given to the extent to which these conceptions are likely to include or exclude those characterized by ‘difference’ in terms of their national or ethnic origins. Contemporary survey evidence is used to explore exclusion from a specific national identity - Scottishness. The findings show that for two key minority groups, access to a Scottish identity can be undermined by the perspectives of the majority, who are likely to have a more straightforward sense of this identity. At the same time, the agency which people have in determining their own identities is illustrated, not least by an evident process of ‘becoming’ Scottish among a small minority who were neither born in Scotland nor have Scottish parents.
British Indians ‘Returning Home’: An Exploration of Transnational Belongings
Authors: Ramji Hasmita
Published: July 2006

This article concentrates on the ‘return’ experiences of first-generation British Hindu Gujaratis retiring to India, to explore how this aspect of migration refigures their transnational social space. The ‘return’, whether imaginary, anticipated or undertaken, has been a key feature of this generation’s relationship to both London and Gujarat and has defined their sense of identity, place and home. Drawing on qualitative research data, the article highlights the ambivalent nature of the migrants’ return experience and the implications this had on their attempts to negotiate a retirement back ‘home’.The data illustrate the contradictory longing of what Clifford (1994) refers to as the ‘lived’ and ‘desired’ home in diasporic and transnational communities.As the return was realized, a new sense of identity, place and home seemed to emerge amongst the migrants, which drew on a reevaluation of their ‘Britishness’ and ‘Indianness’.
The Cultural Politics of Sexuality and Reproduction in Northern Ireland
Authors: Smyth Lisa
Published: July 2006

This article is concerned with the ways in which moral conservatives frame their opposition to liberal sexual and reproductive service provision in a divided society, namely Northern Ireland. The analysis focuses on the assertion of a common ‘Northern Irish’ position as a key strategy in opposing both abortion access and impartial and confidential sexual health service provision for young people at activist and official political levels.The relative success of the conservative lobby’s cultural strategy, despite the otherwise divided social context, raises important questions about the role of gender and age in the politics of recognition.
Dismantling Mantelpieces: Narrating Identities and Materializing Culture in the Home
Authors: Hurdley Rachel
Published: July 2006

This article applies narrative methods to an analysis of the meaning of British domestic culture.The data are from an exploratory study investigating how and why people displayed objects in their homes. Although mantelpiece displays were the principal focus, other display areas were considered, and interview respondents were invited to tell stories about the provenance and meaning of objects. Analysing such narratives as social performances demonstrates the extent to which the apparently ‘private’ experiences of the self are manifested by means of display objects and domestic artefacts. Narratives and objects inhabit the intersection of the personal and the social. An analysis of four narratives that two women related during interviews in their homes shows how people account for themselves in recounting stories of their home possessions. In conclusion, a research strategy combining narrative accounts with an interpretation of photographic data is suggested.
The Field of Fashion Materialized: A Study of London Fashion Week
Authors: Entwistle Joanne , Rocamora Agnès
Published: July 2006

This article, based on two studies of the fashion industry examines one of its key institutions, London Fashion Week (LFW). Drawing on the work of Bourdieu, we argue that this event is a materialization of the field of fashion.We examine how LFW renders visible the boundaries, relational positions, capital and habitus at play in the field, reproducing critical divisions within it.As well as making visible the field, LFW is a ceremony of consecration within it that contributes to its reproduction. The central aim of this article is to develop an empirically grounded sense of field, reconciling this macro-structural concept with embodied and situated reality.
Population Pharmacokinetics of Amlodipine in Hypertensive Children and Adolescents
Authors: Flynn Joseph T. , Nahata Milap C. , Mahan John D. , Portman Ronald J. ,   PATH‐2 Investigators
Published: July 2006

A population pharmacokinetic study was conducted in 74 hypertensive children (mean age 10.4 ± 4.4 years [mean ± SD]) receiving amlodipine (mean dose 0.17 ± 0.13 mg/kg/d) chronically. Multiple blood samples were obtained from each subject to characterize amlodipine pharmacokinetics. Plasma amlodipine concentrations were determined by liquid chromatography/mass spectrophotometry with multiple‐reaction monitoring detection. Population pharmacokinetic analysis was performed using NONMEM. Amlodipine concentrations were similar in subjects dosed either once or twice daily. Amlodipine pharmacokinetics were well described by a 1‐compartment model with first‐order absorption and elimination. For a subject at the population median weight (45 kg), predicted apparent clearances (CL/F) were 23.7 L/h for males and 17.6 L/h for females, and the apparent volume of distribution (V/F) was 25.1 L/kg. Dosing frequency did not appear to affect amlodipine concentrations in children. Weight‐adjusted CL/F and V/F of amlodipine in younger children were significantly greater than in older children, suggesting a need for higher doses when treating young children with amlodipine.
The Pharmacokinetics of Enoxaparin Do Not Correlate With Its Pharmacodynamic Effect in Patients Receiving Dialysis Therapies
Authors: Brophy Donald F. , Carr Marcus E. , Martin Erika J. , Venitz Jürgen , Gehr Todd W. B.
Published: July 2006

The pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of enoxaparin were studied in healthy volunteers and hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis subjects. Antifactor Xa activity estimated the pharmacokinetics, whereas thrombin generation time (TGT) estimated the pharmacodynamics. Enoxaparin 1 mg/kg was given subcutaneously to all subjects. Antifactor Xa Amax and AUC0–12 were similar between groups, but the TGTmax was significantly greater in the dialysis groups (P = .001). The thrombin generation time remained significantly more prolonged throughout the 12‐hour study period, and there was a trend toward greater TGT AUEC0–12 for both dialysis groups (P = .07). Patients receiving hemodialysis had greater sensitivity to enoxaparin compared to the other groups. These results suggest that in dialysis patients, there may be accumulation of active heparin metabolites that are undetected by the antifactor Xa assay. Therefore, these subjects exhibit greater thrombin generation time prolongation despite similar antifactor Xa exposure. Further large‐scale studies are needed to corroborate the results of this exploratory pilot study.
‘A Letter as by Us’: Intentional Ambiguity in 2 Thessalonians 2.2
Authors: Roose Hanna
Published: July 2006

In 2 Thess. 2.2, the Greek (di’ e0pistolh=j w(j di’ h9mw~n) is ambiguous, meaning either ‘a letter supposedly [but not truly] from us’ or ‘a letter as [truly] by us’. The article argues that this ambiguity is intentional. It mirrors the author’s struggle to reconcile his conflicting interests of relevance (for his real addressees) and (alleged) authenticity—a struggle that is typical of pseudepigraphical letters in general. For the sake of relevance, the author allows for a reading that takes 2 Thess. 2.2 as a reference to 1 Thessalonians—a letter that obviously played a vital role in the conflict about ‘correct’ eschatology. Thus, ‘Paul’ makes 2 Thessalonians relevant as an attempt to rectify the (mis)interpretation of 1 Thessalonians. However, for the sake of the appearance of authenticity, he throws doubt on this understanding of 2.2 by inserting the w(j. Throughout his letter, he avoids explicit references to his literary model, 1 Thessalonians. Among modern proponents of authenticity, this lack of explicit references in 2 Thessalonians has been interpreted in terms of chronological priority. The article argues that this is the reaction the author intended to provoke among his real addressees. The (supposed) chronological priority indirectly vouches for authenticity (cf. 2 Thess. 3.17). Thus, in 2 Thess. 2.2, the author deliberately chooses an ambiguous wording in order to allow his letter both to be taken as pointing back to 1 Thessalonians and to carry the implication that it is older than 1 Thessalonians.
With Friends Like These...: A Feminist Rhetorical Reconsideration of Scholarship and the Letter to the Philippians
Authors: Marchal Joseph A.
Published: July 2006

Interpreters of Philippians have often seen this letter as one of Paul’s friendliest, turning to friendship terminology from the wider Greco-Roman world to develop their arguments. This move, however, requires a reevaluation of the rhetorics in both scholarship and the letter. This reconsideration is achieved, in part, by surveying what was involved in ancient friendship, especially as it was developed by and for elite aristocratic males. In the political realm, ‘friendship’ is intertwined with patronage and the justification for specific interstate relations of domination. Comprehending and analyzing this hierarchical aspect should lead, then, to a similar approach to Paul’s use of friendly terminology in Philippians, a task as yet not taken up by most interpreters.
What Makes Glory Glorious? Reading Luke’s Account of the Transfiguration Over Against Triumphalism
Authors: Martin Thomas W.
Published: July 2006

A literary-critical analysis of narrative voice(s) in Luke’s account of the Trans-figuration leads to a reading over against triumphalism. Historical-critical readings of this passage view its tandem visions as mutually reinforcing a triumphal view of Jesus. This article puts forward a reading of these visions as, instead, antithetical. In this alternative reading, the epiphany of the transfigured Jesus is an inappropriate vision of the glory of the Messiah Jesus. Luke’s version sees messianic glory not as exaltation, but as humiliation. This is shown by reading the Transfiguration as the culmination of three themes: Jesus’ identity, ‘hearing’ Jesus and the ‘glory’ to be fulfilled in Jesus. The first two themes come to clear conclusions in the Transfigu-ration. However, the third refuses to be held by the visions, and the story forces us to the remaining pericopes of ch. 9 for an answer to the question of what makes glory glorious.
Lesbian couples' management of public-private dialectical contradictions
Authors: Suter Elizabeth A. , Bergen Karla Mason , Daas Karen L. , Durham Wesley T.
Published: July 2006

This study explores the processes by which a group of lesbian women report managing public-private dialectical contradictions at the external border between their relationship as a couple and networks, social norms, and laws. Specifically, 18 dyads and 2 individuals, all of whom had been in a committed relationship for at least 1 year, were interviewed about the rituals that are part of their relationship. Transcripts of the interviews were analyzed using grounded theory. Participants reported using the dialectic response strategies of integration and segmentation to manage the inclusion-seclusion and revelation-concealment dimensions of the public-private contraction.
Embedded parenting? The influence of conjugal networks on parent–child relationships
Authors: Widmer Eric , Goff Jean-Marie Le , Levy René , Hammer Raphaël , Kellerhals Jean
Published: July 2006

Data from a large survey of family functioning in Switzerland explore the extent to which various types of conjugal networks affect parenting and parent–child relationships (e.g., problems in assuming parental roles, parent–child disagreements, quality of parent–child relationships, and parental worries about the child). Results show that conjugal networks have significant indirect and direct effects on parent–child relationships but no buffering effect. Bicentric conjugal networks are singled out as indirectly associated with improved parenting practices and parent–child relationships. They strengthen the conjugal subsystem and improve the psychological well-being of parents. Interfering and unicentric networks have negative direct effects on some but not all dimensions considered. These results are important for understanding parenting and parent–child relationships within relational contexts larger than the nuclear family.
Development and validation of the Stepfamily Life Index
Authors: Schrodt Paul
Published: July 2006

Using schema theory, this study explored the knowledge structures that stepchildren hold about their stepfamilies. Two studies developed a reliable measure of six themes of stepfamily functioning. In Study 1, 251 adult and adolescent stepchildren completed a pilot inventory. Factor-analytic results reduced the pilot inventory from 192 items to 65 items and demonstrated that each dimension could be measured empirically. In Study 2, 586 adult and adolescent stepchildren completed the revised inventory and produced a new, multidimensional measure: The Stepfamily Life Index (SLI). Evidence of internal reliability and discriminant validity for the SLI is offered, and implications are discussed.
Generational differences and similarities among Puerto Rican and Mexican mothers' experiences with familial ethnic socialization
Authors: Umaña-Taylor Adriana J. , Yazedjian Ani
Published: July 2006

We used focus group methodology to explore differences and similarities in the process of familial ethnic socialization among first-and second-generation Mexican and Puerto Rican mothers (N = 75). Across all groups, mothers communicated the importance and purposefulness of familial ethnic socialization practices that took place in their homes. A number of similarities emerged across national origin and generational groups, indicating that there were numerous shared experiences that did not change with greater time in the US and did not vary by national origin. Nevertheless, differences across generational status and within national origin groups were also discovered. Findings are discussed within the context of Bronfenbrenner's ecological theory and an acculturative framework.
Context Changes Choices: A Prospective Study of the Effects of Hospitalization on Life-Sustaining Treatment Preferences
Authors: Ditto Peter H. , Jacobson Jill A. , Smucker William D. , Danks Joseph H. , Fagerlin Angela
Published: July 2006

Objective.Policy and law encouraging individuals to document their wishes for life-sustaining medical treatment in advance of serious illness assumes that these wishes are unaffected by changes in health condition. To test this assumption, the authors examine the life-sustaining treatment preferences of a sample of elderly adults prior to, soon after, and several months after a hospitalization experience. Subjects and Methods. As part of the Advance Directives, Values Assessment, and Communication Enhancement (ADVANCE) project, 401 individuals older than age 65 participated in 3 annual interviews. A subsample of 88 individuals who were hospitalized for greater than 48 hours during the course of the study participated in an additional “recovery” interview conducted soon after their release from the hospital (M = 14 days postdischarge). At each interview, subjects indicated their desire to receive 4 life-sustaining medical treatments in 4 serious illness scenarios. Results. Treatment preferences showed a significant “hospitalization dip,” with subjects reporting less desire to receive life-sustaining treatment at the recovery interview than they did at the annual interview conducted prior to hospitalization, but with desire returning to near prehospitalization levels at the annual interview conducted several months after hospitalization. This dip was more pronounced in preferences for cardiopulmonary resuscitation and artificial nutrition and hydration than in preferences for less invasive treatments. Conclusions. Preferences for life-sustaining treatment are dependent on the context in which they are made, and thus individuals may express different treatment preferences when they are healthy than when they are ill. These results challenge a key psychological assumption underlying the use of instructional advance directives in end-of-life decision making.