bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The effects of intrinsic pathway protease deficiencies on plasminogen-deficient mice
Authors: Cheng Qiufang , Zhao Yong , Lawson William E. , Polosukhin Vasiliy V. , Johnson Joyce E. , Blackwell Timothy S. , Gailani David
Published: June 2005

Plasminogen (Plg)–deficient mice experience wasting and have decreased longevity due to disseminated fibrin deposition. We generated mice with combined deficiencies of Plg and coagulation factor IX (fIX) or XI (fXI) to determine the effects on the Plg null phenotype. Mice lacking Plg and fIX (Plg–/–/fIX–/–) have lower mortality at age 6 months than Plg–/–/fIX+/+ mice (15% and 67%, respectively) and less severe wasting, consistent with the importance of fIX in fibrin formation. In contrast, combined Plg and fXI deficiency (Plg–/–/fXI–/–) reduces life span (more than 90% mortality at 6 months) and is associated with leukocyte infiltration of the lungs and pulmonary fibrosis. These abnormalities are not seen in Plg–/– or Plg–/–/fIX–/– animals. Activated fXI is thought to function primarily as a fIX activator; however, our observation suggests that fXI may have functions in regulation of inflammation or tissue repair distinct from its role in coagulation.
Morphogenesis of the anterior segment in the zebrafish eye
Authors: Soules Kelly A , Link Brian A
Published: June 2005

Background

The ocular anterior segment is critical for focusing incoming light onto the neural retina and for regulating intraocular pressure. It is comprised of the cornea, lens, iris, ciliary body, and highly specialized tissue at the iridocorneal angle. During development, cells from diverse embryonic lineages interact to form the anterior segment. Abnormal migration, proliferation, differentiation, or survival of these cells contribute to diseases of the anterior segment such as corneal dystrophy, lens cataract, and glaucoma. Zebrafish represent a powerful model organism for investigating the genetics and cell biology of development and disease. To lay the foundation for genetic studies of anterior segment development, we have described the morphogenesis of this structure in zebrafish.

Results

As in other vertebrates, the zebrafish anterior segment derives from diverse origins including surface ectoderm, periocular mesenchyme, and neuroepithelium. Similarly, the relative timing of tissue differentiation in the anterior segment is also conserved with other vertebrates. However, several morphogenic features of the zebrafish anterior segment differ with those of higher vertebrates. These include lens delamination as opposed to invagination, lack of iris muscles and ciliary folds, and altered organization in the iridocorneal angle. In addition, substantial dorsal-ventral differences exist within the zebrafish anterior segment.

Conclusion

Cumulatively, our anatomical findings provide a reference point to utilize zebrafish for genetic studies into the mechanisms of development and maintenance of the anterior segment.
The quality of antimalarials available in Yemen
Authors: Abdo-Rabbo Ahmed , Bassili Amal , Atta Hoda
Published: June 2005

Background

Malaria has always been a major public health problem in Yemen. Several studies in developing countries have demonstrated ineffective and poor quality drugs including antimalarials. Therefore, quality assessment of antimalarial drugs is of crucial importance. This study aimed to assess the quality of antimalarials (chloroquine and sulfadoxine/pyrimethamine) available in Yemen and to determine whether the quality of these products was related to the level of the distribution chain at which the samples were collected or related to the manufacturers.

Methods

Four samples from each antimalarial product were collected from each of the various levels of the distribution chain. One sample was kept with the research team. Two were tested at Sana'a and Aden Drug Quality Control Laboratories. The fourth was sent to the Centre for Quality Assurance of Medicines in Potchefstroom, South Africa, for analysis. Quality indicators measured were the content of the active ingredient and dissolution rate (for tablets only) in comparison to standard specifications for these products in the relevant pharmacopoeia.

Results

The results identified several problems of sub-standard products within the drug distribution chain. They included high and low failures in ingredient content for chloroquine tablets and chloroquine syrup. There was some dissolution failure for chloroquine tablets, and high sulfadoxine/pyrimethamine tablets dissolution failures. Failures with the dissolution of the pyrimethamine were found at most of the collection points. No clear relationship neither between the quality products and the level of the distribution chain, nor between locally manufactured and imported products was observed.

Conclusion

There are sub-standard antimalarial products circulating within the drug distribution chains in the country, which will have serious implications on the reduced therapeutic effectiveness and on the development of drug resistance. This appears to be due to non-compliance with Good Manufacturing Practice guidelines by manufacturers in the production of the antimalarials.
Comparative effects of the herbal constituent parthenolide (Feverfew) on lipopolysaccharide-induced inflammatory gene expression in murine spleen and liver
Authors: Smolinski Alexa T , Pestka James J
Published: June 2005

Background

Parthenolide, a major sesquiterpene lactone present in extracts of the herb Feverfew, has been investigated for its inhibitory effects on mediators of inflammation, including the proinflammatory cytokines. Although parthenolide's anti-inflammatory effects have been investigated in vitro, little in vivo data are available. Moreover, the molecular mechanisms for these inhibitory effects are not fully understood. The objective of this study was to test the hypothesis that parthenolide suppresses lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced serum (interleukin) IL-6, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, IL-1β and cyclooxygenase (COX)-2 expression in mice as indicated by reduced splenic and liver mRNA levels.

Methods

Mice were co-treated i.p. with LPS (1 mg/kg bw) and parthenolide (5 mg/kg bw) and blood, spleen and liver collected. Serum was analyzed for IL-6, TNF-α and IL-1β by ELISA. Total RNA was extracted from spleen and liver, and real-time RT-PCR was used to determine relative mRNA expression of IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α and COX-2.

Results

LPS induced increases in serum IL-6 and TNF-α concentrations with only IL-6 being suppressed in parthenolide-treated mice. Induction of IL-6 mRNA was reduced, TNF-α and COX-2 mRNAs unchanged, and IL-1β mRNA increased in spleens of parthenolide plus LPS co-treated animals compared to LPS-only. No significant differences were observed in inflammatory gene expression between these two groups in liver samples. Overall, mRNA expression of each proinflammatory gene was much higher in spleen when compared to liver.

Conclusion

In summary, only one gene, IL-6, was modestly suppressed by parthenolide co-exposure which contrasts with many in vitro studies suggesting anti-inflammatory effects of this compound. Also, LPS evoked greater effects in spleen than liver on expression of proinflammatory genes. Further study of the effects of parthenolide and other herbal constituents on inflammatory gene expression using model animal systems as described here are critical to evaluating efficacy of such supplements as well as elucidating their mechanisms of action.
Chemically synthesized zinc finger molecules as nano-addressable probes for double-stranded DNAs
Authors: von Nickisch-Rosenegk Markus , Ehrentreich-Forster Eva , Strehlow Rothin , Christmann Alexander , Bier Frank F
Published: June 2005

Our experiments describe an alternative method of dsDNA recognition using zinc finger (ZF) molecules which bind DNA specifically and with high affinity. Our aim was to develop zinc finger probes which are able to bind to dsDNA molecules at predetermined sites. In our basic approach we used pairs of complementary oligonucleotides to form dsDNAs, containing one of the three SP1-transcription factor motifs as a zinc finger recognition site. Two zinc finger probes of the SP1 motif were chemically synthesized and modified with a Dy-633 fluorophore. The SP1 peptides were folded into functional zinc fingers using zinc chloride. The addressable dsDNAs were immobilized on optical fibres, and the kinetics and binding rates of the artificial zinc finger probes were measured by a fluorescence detecting device (photomultiplying tube). The two zinc fingers and their corresponding DNA recognition sites served as specific probes and controls for the matching site and vice versa. Our experiments showed that a variety of dsDNA-binding probes may be created by modification of the amino acid sequence of natural zinc finger proteins. Our findings offer an alternative approach of addressing dsDNA molecules, for example for use in a nanoarray device.
Sentinel node biopsy as an adjunct to limb salvage surgery for epithelioid sarcoma of the hand
Authors: Seal Alex , Tse Raymond , Wehrli Bret , Hammond Alex , Temple Claire LF
Published: June 2005

Background

Epithelioid sarcomas of the hand are rare, high-grade tumors with a propensity for regional lymphatic spread approaching 40%.

Case presentation

A 54-year-old male with an epithelioid sarcoma of the palm was treated with neoadjuvant radiation, wide excision, and two-stage reconstruction. Sentinel lymph node biopsy was used to stage the patient's axilla. Sentinel node biopsy results were negative. The patient has remained free of local, regional and distant disease for the follow-up time of 16 months.

Conclusion

The rarity of this tumor makes definitive conclusions difficult but SLN biopsy appears to be a useful adjunct in the treatment of these sarcomas.
Shape based assignment tests suggest transgressive phenotypes in natural sculpin hybrids (Teleostei, Scorpaeniformes, Cottidae)
Authors: Nolte Arne W , Sheets H David
Published: June 2005

Background

Hybridization receives attention because of the potential role that it may play in generating evolutionary novelty. An explanation for the emergence of novel phenotypes is given by transgressive segregation, which, if frequent, would imply an important evolutionary role for hybridization. This process is still rarely studied in natural populations as samples of recent hybrids and their parental populations are needed. Further, the detection of transgressive segregation requires phenotypes that can be easily quantified and analysed. We analyse variability in body shape of divergent populations of European sculpins (Cottus gobiocomplex) as well as natural hybrids among them.

Results

A distance-based method is developed to assign unknown specimens to known groups based on morphometric data. Apparently, body shape represents a highly informative set of characters that parallels the discriminatory power of microsatellite markers in our study system. Populations of sculpins are distinct and "unknown" specimens can be correctly assigned to their source population based on body shape. Recent hybrids are intermediate along the axes separating their parental groups but display additional differentiation that is unique and coupled with the hybrid genetic background.

Conclusion

There is a specific hybrid shape component in natural sculpin hybrids that can be best explained by transgressive segregation. This inference of how hybrids differ from their ancestors provides basic information for future evolutionary studies. Furthermore, our approach may serve to assign candidate specimens to their source populations based on morphometric data and help in the interpretation of population differentiation.
The male genital system of the cellar spider Pholcus phalangioides (Fuesslin, 1775) (Pholcidae, Araneae): development of spermatozoa and seminal secretion
Authors: Michalik Peter , Uhl Gabriele
Published: June 2005

Background

Most arthropods pass through several molting stages (instars) before reaching sexual maturity. In spiders, very little is known about the male genital system, its development and seminal secretions. For example, it is unknown whether spermatozoa exist prior to-, or only after the final molt. Likewise, it is unclear whether sperm are produced throughout male adulthood or only once in a lifetime, as is whether seminal secretions contain factors capable of manipulating female behavior. In order to shed light on these aspects of the reproductive biology of spiders, we investigated the male genital system of the common cellar spider Pholcus phalangioides, with special emphasis on its development and seminal secretions.

Results

Testes already display all stages of spermatogenesis in subadult males (about four weeks before the final molt). Their vasa deferentia possess proximally a very voluminous lumen containing dense seminal fluid and few spermatozoa, whereas the distal part is seemingly devoid of contents. Spermatoza of P. phalangioides are typical cleistospermia with individual secretion sheaths. In male stages approximately two weeks prior to the final molt, the lumina of the testes are wider and filled with a dense secretion. The wide, proximal portion of the vasa deferentia is filled with secretion and a large number of spermatozoa, and the narrow distal part also contains secretion. In adult males, the wide lumina of the testes are packed with spermatozoa and secretions. The latter are produced by the somatic cells that bear microvilli and contain many vesicles. The lumina of the vasa deferentia are narrow and filled with spermatozoa and secretions. We could identify a dense matrix of secretion consisting of mucosubstances and at least three types of secretion droplets, likely consisting of proteinaceous substances.

Conclusion

This study reveals that spermatogenesis begins weeks before maturity and takes place continuously in the long-lived males of P. phalangioides. Possible functions of the various types of secretion in the seminal fluid and previously investigated female secretions are discussed in the light of sexual selection.
Prospective assessment of Y-chromosome microdeletions and reproductive outcomes among infertile couples of Japanese and African origin
Authors: Kihaile Paul E , Yasui Atsushi , Shuto Yoshihiro
Published: June 2005

Background

To compare the frequency of Y-chromosome microdeletions in Japanese and African azoospermic and oligozoospermic men and describe embryo characteristics and reproductive outcome following in vitro fertilization (IVF) with intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI).

Methods

Our study was performed prospectively at two centers, a private IVF clinic and a university hospital. Japanese and African (Tanzanian) men with nonobstructive azoospermia (NOA) and oligozoospermia (concentration < 5 × 106 /ml) were evaluated for Y-chromosome microdeletions (n = 162). Of the 47 men with NOA, 26 were Japanese and 21 were Africans. Of the 115 men with oligozoospermia, 87 were Japanese and 28 were Africans. Reproductive outcomes of patients with Y-chromosome microdeletions were then compared with those of 19 IVF+ICSI cycles performed on couples with Y-chromosome intact males/tubal factor infertility which served as a control group.

Results

Seven azoospermic and oligozoospermic patients had Y-chromosome deletions; the total number of deletions in the AZFc region was five. There was only one deletion in the AZFa region and one complete deletion involving all three regions (AZFa, b, and c) within AZF. In our study population, microdeletion frequency among Japanese men was 6.2% (95% CI, 4.25% – 14.45%), whereas no deletions were identified in the African group (95% CI, 0.0% – 7.27%). The difference between the two groups was not statistically significant, however. Embryos derived from ICSI utilizing sperm with Y-chromosome microdeletion showed reduced rates of fertilization, blastocyst development, implantation, and pregnancy compared to the Y-chromosome intact group, although these observed differences were not statistically significant.

Conclusion

The observed frequency of Y-chromosome microdeletion was 6.2% among Japanese azoospermic and oligozoospermic males; no microdeletions were identified among our African study patients. In this population of couples undergoing IVF+ICSI, there was no statistically significant difference in embryo characteristics or pregnancy outcome between patients with Y-chromosome microdeletion and those with an intact Y-chromosome.
Actively replicating West Nile virus is resistant to cytoplasmic delivery of siRNA
Authors: Geiss Brian J , Pierson Theodore C , Diamond Michael S
Published: June 2005

Background

West Nile virus is an emerging human pathogen for which specific antiviral therapy has not been developed. Recent studies have suggested that RNA interference (RNAi) has therapeutic potential as a sequence specific inhibitor of viral infection. Here, we examine the ability of exogenous small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) to block the replication of West Nile virus in human cells.

Results

WNV replication and infection was greatly reduced when siRNA were introduced by cytoplasmic-targeted transfection prior to but not after the establishment of viral replication. WNV appeared to evade rather than actively block the RNAi machinery, as sequence-specific reduction in protein expression of a heterologous transgene was still observed in WNV-infected cells. However, sequence-specific decreases in WNV RNA were observed in cells undergoing active viral replication when siRNA was transfected by an alternate method, electroporation.

Conclusion

Our results suggest that actively replicating WNV RNA may not be exposed to the cytoplasmic RNAi machinery. Thus, conventional lipid-based siRNA delivery systems may not be adequate for therapy against enveloped RNA viruses that replicate in specialized membrane compartments.
Regulation of mouse hepatic genes in response to diet induced obesity, insulin resistance and fasting induced weight reduction
Authors: Raab R Michael , Bullen John , Kelleher Joanne , Mantzoros Christos , Stephanopoulos Gregory
Published: June 2005

Background

Obesity is associated with insulin resistance that can often be improved by caloric restriction and weight reduction. Although many physiological changes accompanying insulin resistance and its treatment have been characterized, the genetic mechanisms linking obesity to insulin resistance are largely unknown. We used DNA microarrys and RT-PCR to investigate significant changes in hepatic gene transcription in insulin resistant, diet-induced obese (DIO)-C57/BL/6J mice and DIO-C57/BL/6J mice fasted for 48 hours, whose weights returned to baseline levels during these conditions.

Results

Transcriptional profiling of hepatic mRNA revealed over 1900 genes that were significantly perturbed between control, DIO, and fasting/weight reduced DIO mice. From this set, our bioinformatics analysis identified 41 genes that rigorously discriminate these groups of mice. These genes are associated with molecular pathways involved in signal transduction, and protein metabolism and secretion. Of particular interest are genes that participate in pathways responsible for modulating insulin sensitivity. DIO altered expression of genes in directions that would be anticipated to antagonize insulin sensitivity, while fasting/ weight reduction partially or completely normalized their levels. Among these discriminatory genes, Sh3kbp1 and RGS3, may have special significance. Sh3kbp1, an endogenous inhibitor of PI-3-kinase, was upregulated by high-fat feeding, but normalized to control levels by fasting/weight reduction. Because insulin signaling occurs partially through PI-3-kinase, increased expression of Sh3kbp1 by DIO mice may contribute to hepatic insulin resistance via inhibition of PI-3-kinase. RGS3, a suppressor of G-protein coupled receptor generation of cAMP, was repressed by high-fat feeding, but partially normalized by fasting/weight reduction. Decreased expression of RGS3 may augment levels of cAMP and thereby contribute to increased, cAMP-induced, hepatic glucose output via phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase (PCK1), whose mRNA levels were also elevated.

Conclusion

These findings demonstrate that hepatocytes respond to DIO and weight reduction by controlling gene transcription in a variety of important molecular pathways. Future studies that characterize the physiological significance of the identified genes in modulating energy homeostasis could provide a better understanding of the mechanisms linking DIO with insulin resistance.
Microalbuminuria in Diabetes
Authors: Mangili Ruggero
Published: June 2005

Microalbuminuria is still the only early abnormality of the diabetic kidney that has an established prognostic value. Microalbuminuria evolves into clinical nephropathy and renal failure in a majority of cases of insulin-dependent diabetic patients, and is defined by the detection of urinary albumin excretion rates of 20–200 μg/min in timed urine collections. The occurrence of microalbuminuria at rates of 5–27 % of non-proteinuric patients and cost-benefit considerations justify the screening for microalbuminuria in diabetic outpatient clinics. Both near-normalisation of glycaemic control and treatment with ACE-inhibitors are indicated in patients with insulin-dependent diabetes to correct the progression of micro- to macroalbuminuria. Other therapeutic perspectives are being considered, but the current notion that the available therapies may not arrest the course of nephropathy at this stage suggests that earlier interventions may be required. Prevention of microalbuminuria and overt nephropathy may require a primary approach to the subset of patients with a genetic predisposition to this complication, and several studies (candidate gene or genomic scan with microsatellite probes) now address the chromosomal loci and the nature of the genes that may involved.
Nicotinic Acetylcholine Receptors at Glutamate Synapses Facilitate Long-Term Depression or Potentiation
Authors: Ge Shaoyu , Dani John A.
Published: June 2005

The hippocampus is a center for learning and memory that receives abundant cholinergic innervation and richly expresses nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs). Nicotinic mechanisms acting on the hippocampus influence attention, learning, and memory. During Alzheimer's dementia, nAChRs and cholinergic innervation decline in the hippocampus. Using mouse hippocampal slices, we examined the potential diversity of nAChR influences at the Schaffer collateral synapse onto CA1 pyramidal neurons. When nAChR currents were elicited locally at those excitatory synapses, various outcomes were possible depending on the relationship between the nAChR-mediated excitation and mild electrical stimulation. When mild presynaptic stimulation coincided with or preceded nAChR-induced action potentials by 1-5 s, then long-term potentiation was induced. However, if the nAChR-induced action potentials fell within 1 s before the electrical stimulation, then long-term depression resulted. Outside of these time frames, the mismatch of nAChR activity and stimulation led to short-term potentiation. The results indicate that nAChRs may have various influences over excitatory events in the hippocampus. Ongoing nAChR activity likely modulates the impact of glutamate transmission and alters the probabilities for various forms of synaptic plasticity. The fine network of cholinergic fibers running through the hippocampus forms synaptic contacts onto pyramidal cells, granule cells, and interneurons, ensuring continual modulatory influence by nicotinic mechanisms throughout the hippocampal complex. Disruption of events such as those described here may contribute to the deficits associated with the decline of nicotinic cholinergic functions during degenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's dementia.
Mice with Genetically Altered Glucocorticoid Receptor Expression Show Altered Sensitivity for Stress-Induced Depressive Reactions
Authors: Ridder Stephanie , Chourbaji Sabine , Hellweg Rainer , Urani Alexandre , Zacher Christiane , Schmid Wolfgang , Zink Mathias , Hörtnagl Heide , Flor Herta , Henn Fritz A. , Schütz Günther , Gass Peter
Published: June 2005

Altered glucocorticoid receptor (GR) signaling is a postulated mechanism for the pathogenesis of major depression. To mimic the human situation of altered GR function claimed for depression, we generated mouse strains that underexpress or overexpress GR, but maintain the regulatory genetic context controlling the GR gene. To achieve this goal, we used the following: (1) GR-heterozygous mutant mice (GR+/-) with a 50% GR gene dose reduction, and (2) mice overexpressing GR by a yeast artificial chromosome resulting in a twofold gene dose elevation. GR+/-mice exhibit normal baseline behaviors but demonstrate increased helplessness after stress exposure, a behavioral correlate of depression in mice. Similar to depressed patients, GR+/-mice have a disinhibited hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) system and a pathological dexamethasone/corticotropin-releasing hormone test. Thus, they represent a murine depression model with good face and construct validity. Overexpression of GR in mice evokes reduced helplessness after stress exposure, and an enhanced HPA system feedback regulation. Therefore, they may represent a model for a stress-resistant strain. These mouse models can now be used to study biological changes underlying the pathogenesis of depressive disorders. As a first potential molecular correlate for such changes, we identified a downregulation of BDNF protein content in the hippocampus of GR+/-mice, which is in agreement with the so-called neurotrophin hypothesis of depression.
Rapid, Nongenomic Responses to Ecdysteroids and Catecholamines Mediated by a NovelDrosophilaG-Protein-Coupled Receptor
Authors: Srivastava Deepak P. , Yu Esther J. , Kennedy Karen , Chatwin Heather , Reale Vincenzina , Hamon Maureen , Smith Trevor , Evans Peter D.
Published: June 2005

Nongenomic response pathways mediate many of the rapid actions of steroid hormones, but the mechanisms underlying such responses remain controversial. In some cases, cell-surface expression of classical nuclear steroid receptors has been suggested to mediate these effects, but, in a few instances, specific G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) have been reported to be responsible. Here, we describe the activation of a novel, neuronally expressedDrosophilaGPCR by the insect ecdysteroids ecdysone (E) and 20-hydroxyecdysone (20E). This is the first report of an identified insect GPCR interacting with steroids. TheDrosophila melanogasterdopamine/ecdysteroid receptor (DmDopEcR) shows sequence homology with vertebrate β-adrenergic receptors and is activated by dopamine (DA) to increase cAMP levels and to activate the phosphoinositide 3-kinase pathway. Conversely, E and 20E show high affinity for the receptor in binding studies and can inhibit the effects of DA, as well as coupling the receptor to a rapid activation of the mitogen-activated protein kinase pathway. The receptor may thus represent theDrosophilahomolog of the vertebrate “γ-adrenergic receptors,” which are responsible for the modulation of various activities in brain, blood vessels, and pancreas. Thus, DmDopEcR can function as a cell-surface GPCR that may be responsible for some of the rapid, nongenomic actions of ecdysteroids, during both development and signaling in the mature adult nervous system.
Reelin, Very-Low-Density Lipoprotein Receptor, and Apolipoprotein E Receptor 2 Control Somatic NMDA Receptor Composition during Hippocampal MaturationIn Vitro
Authors: Sinagra Mélanie , Verrier Danièle , Frankova Daniela , Korwek Kimberly M. , Blahos Jaroslav , Weeber Edwin J. , Manzoni Olivier J. , Chavis Pascale
Published: June 2005

Reelin is a secreted protein that regulates brain layer formation during embryonic development. Reelin binds several receptors, including two members of the low-density lipoprotein (LDL) receptor family, the apolipoprotein E receptor 2 (ApoER2) and the very-low-density lipoprotein receptor (VLDLR). Despite the high level of expression of Reelin and ApoER2 in the postnatal brain, their functions in the adult CNS remain elusive. Here, using electrophysiological, immunocytochemical, and biochemical approaches in cultured postnatal hippocampal neurons, we show that Reelin controls the change in subunit composition of somatic NMDA glutamate receptors (NMDARs) during maturation. We found that maturation is characterized by the gradual decrease of the participation of NR1/2B receptors to whole-cell NMDAR-mediated currents. This maturational change was mirrored by a timely correlated increase of both Reelin immunoreactivity in neuronal somata and the amount of secreted Reelin. Chronic blockade of the function of Reelin with antisense oligonucleotides or the function-blocking antibody CR-50 prevented the decrease of NR1/2B-mediated whole-cell currents. Conversely, exogenously added recombinant Reelin accelerated the maturational changes in NMDA-evoked currents. The maturation-induced change in NMDAR subunits also was blocked by chronic treatment with an inhibitor of the Src kinase signaling pathway or an antagonist of the LDL receptors, but not by inhibitors of another class of Reelin receptor belonging to the integrin family. Consistent with these results, immunocytochemistry revealed that NR1-expressing neurons also expressed ApoER2 and VLDLR. These data reveal a new role for Reelin and LDL receptors and reinforce the idea of a prominent role of extracellular matrix proteins in postnatal maturation.
Sources and Chronology in Rastafari Origins
Authors: Salter Richard C.
Published: June 2005

Rastafari began in Jamaica in the 1930s and has since spread to many other countries. As it spread it drew on local sources and traditions to develop in distinctive new ways. Though most scholarship on Rastafari deals specifically with Jamaican forms of the religion, it often does so without recognizing the variety of local histories and forms that the movement actually takes. Consequently there has been an ongo-ing trend for Jamaican Rastafari to be normative for the movement as a whole, thus homogenizing what is really a diverse movement. This arti-cle explores the history and sources for a local form of Rastafari, the Dreads, in the eastern Caribbean island of Dominca. Particular attention is paid to how the Dreads formed, what their relationship with other, more normative, forms of Rastafari has been, and how they continue to negotiate a separate identity for themselves within the movement.
Witchcraft for Sale! Commodity vs. Community in the Neopagan Movement
Authors: Waldron David
Published: June 2005

The growth of the Pagan and Witchcraft revivalist movements (Neopaganism) is well documented in the Anglophone world. However, Witchcraft movements are also closely linked to a vibrant set of subcultures and a multitude of representations in popular culture. In this context investigating the relationship between Witchcraft as a religious community and its representation in consumer culture and mass media is extremely significant. This article examines the ambiguous relationship between witch and Wiccan communities and the vast array of merchandising, popular culture and media representations that surround them.

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New Power for “Old Europe”
Authors: Schapiro Mark
Published: June 2005

The European Union's growing political clout is leading to new paradigms of environmental and health regulation. The E.U. is putting teeth behind new guidelines governing the toxicity of chemicals in consumer products, cosmetics, and automobiles that are forcing American companies to reconsider longstanding production practices. While U.S. government oversight over environmental and health concerns is being weakened, the E.U.'s strengthened governance over these and other arenas is rapidly, through the leverage of international trade, setting the stage for a new global standard. Europe's new standards present a historic choice to U.S. manufacturers: either conform to the E.U.'s preemptive screening for toxicity, or risk sacrificing the 450-million strong European market. The author explores the American response, and how the United States is slipping to the lower rungs of a double standard for protecting the health of citizens.
Illustration and Language in Technical Communication
Authors: Donnell Jeffrey
Published: June 2005

Many technical documents present information both graphically and verbally. While much is known about the verbal tools of technical professionals, technical graphics have been less fully examined. Here the drawings of a United States patent are examined revealing a system for organizing and presenting visual information that is analogous to commonly-used models for organizing and presenting verbal information.
An Investigation into the Effects and Factors Influencing Computer-Based Online Math Problem-Solving in Primary Schools
Authors: Eid Ghada K.
Published: June 2005

The main purpose of this study was to determine if online computer-based math problem-solving and paper-and-pencil math problem-solving tests are suitable tools for measuring math problem-solving, by comparing student performance on traditional style paper-based tests to performance on the same tests online. Data collection for this study was conducted at a K-12 all girls private school in Kuwait, As-Sabah for Girls. The experimental method of research was chosen for this study. The subjects were students from two Year 5 classes at a private single sex school in Kuwait City. Fourteen girls participated from one class (designated Class A) and 17 girls participated from the other (designated Class B). The age range of the students at the time of the test was 10.1 to 11.4 years, with a mean of 10.7 years. Two problem-solving tests and a scale to measure student attitudes toward computers and experience with computers were developed for this study: Paper-based Problem-solving Test, developed by the researcher, and the Online Problem-solving Test. Statistical analyses of the test scores yielded the following findings: 1) students did achieve similar scores for math problem-solving tests administered on the computer and on paper; 2) students did achieve similar scores for math problem-solving tests administered on the computer and on paper; 3) computer anxiety did not affect students' online test scores; and 4) computer experience did not affect students' online test scores.
Flexible Pay but Fixed Expenses: Personal Financial Strain among On-Call Employees
Authors: Aronsson Gunnar , Dallner Margareta , Lindh Tomas , Göransson Sara
Published: June 2005

The aim of the study was to investigate the financial circumstances of a group of temporary employees and whether personal financial strain is related to an increased risk of ill-health. The study group consisted of 778 on-call employees. The response rate to a mailed questionnaire was 56 percent. Twenty percent of respondents stated that they had experienced economic difficulties of some kind. More than 50 percent regarded their form of employment as an impediment to obtaining a loan, and approximately 40 percent regarded it as a barrier to acquiring a housing contract. The study group is strongly polarized with regard to personal financial matters. There is a clear connection between poverty and health. Individuals who were both worried about their personal finances and objectively poor had far lower levels of psychological well-being (as measured by GHQ-12), more stomach, back, and neck complaints, more headaches, and greater tiredness and listlessness. Sleep disturbances acted as a mediating variable between financial pressure and stomach problems.
More Patient Choice in England's National Health Service
Authors: Lewis Richard
Published: June 2005

A new political consensus has emerged over the benefits of new rights for patients to choose their provider of elective health care in the English National Health Service. From December 2005, patients will be able to select from a number of alternative providers at the time they are referred for treatment. In the longer term, patients will be able to access care at any public or private provider that meets national quality and cost standards. The government intends that this policy will lead to improvements in the quality and efficiency of health care and will reduce levels of inequity among patients. Pilot schemes have shown that a majority of patients will exercise a choice of provider when this is offered. However, the policy of patient choice may involve significant costs to the NHS and may be more difficult to implement outside urban areas. Further, the information needed to support patients' choices is not yet available. Whether such a policy will increase or decrease levels of equity in the English NHS remains open to debate.
The Plain Style in the Seventeenth Century: Gender and the History of Scientific Discourse
Authors: Tillery Denise
Published: June 2005

This article analyzes the statements on plain style made by Royal Society writers and seventeenth-century women writers. Using scholarship in feminist rhetorical theory, the article concludes that Royal Society plain stylists constructed scientific discourse as a masculine form of discourse by purging elements that were associated with femininity, such as emotional appeals. The article also discusses how women writers, particularly Margaret Cavendish, embraced a plain style more out of concern for their audience than out of a desire to eliminate undesirable feminine attributes. The implications of this historical study for understanding of current practice are noted.
Effects of Contiguity and Feature Animation in Computer-Based Geography Instruction
Authors: Crooks Steven M. , Verdi Michael P. , White David R.
Published: June 2005

This study examined the effects of contiguity and feature animation on the recall, map reconstruction, inference performance, and en-route behavior of university students studying a computer-delivered reference map with associated text. Participants were randomly assigned to six versions of a computer program created by crossing three contiguity conditions (temporal contiguity, spatial and temporal contiguity, and no contiguity) with two map feature modes (animation, no animation). Participants studying text contiguous to features recalled more facts, matched more facts with corresponding features, and made more accurate inferences than those studying text not contiguous to features. Participants in the temporal contiguity conditions produced better map reconstructions than those in the no contiguity conditions. Those studying an animated map recalled more feature names than those studying a static map.
Researching Health Inequities among African Americans: The Imperative to Understand Social Class
Authors: Oliver M. Norman , Muntaner Carles
Published: June 2005

Racial and ethnic inequities in health abound in many disease categories. African-American communities suffer from an increased burden of illness, with higher incidence and mortality rates and more severe morbidity in cerebrovascular disease, heart disease, several cancers, diabetes, and many other ailments. Healthy People 2010, the federal government's health plan, calls for eliminating health disparities by race, ethnicity, gender, education, income, disability, geographic location, or sexual orientation. Research aimed at increasing our understanding of these health disparities and designing and evaluating interventions to improve African-American health is hampered by a liberal, classless approach. The authors argue for a theoretical framework in this research that recognizes that class exploitation sets the stage for and interacts with racial discrimination to determine racial inequities in health.
Knowledge, Attitude, and Experience of Marriage and Sexuality among Newly-Married Women in Gujarat, India: An Exploratory Study
Authors: Khan M. E. , Barge Sandhya , Sadhwani Hemlata , Kale Giteshwari
Published: June 2005

This article, based on an exploratory study, assesses the sexuality, sexual, and reproductive behavior of young newly-married women and men in rural Gujarat, India. This article focuses on the women. A conceptual framework utilizing socioeconomic background, societal norms about sexuality, mass media exposure, husband-wife communication, and knowledge and attitude was developed to link to sexual behavior. The often colorful and vivid qualitative data suggest considerable premarital needs yet to be met by families or social welfare agencies. The findings confirm how poorly prepared both men and women are for dealing with sexual experience in their marriage and how this lack of preparation and understanding causes such social and behavioral problems such as physical coercion, anxiety, and unhappy marital unions.
Faculty Attitudes toward Web-Based Instruction May Not Be Enough: Limited Use and Obstacles to Implementation
Authors: Vodanovich Stephen J. , Piotrowski Chris
Published: June 2005

Data from 87 out of 250 faculty (34% response rate) responded to a two-page survey on Internet usage, attitudes, and perceived benefits and shortcomings. Overall, 73.6% of the faculty indicated a positive view of using the Internet for instructional purposes and 69.4% believed that the Internet is an effective teaching tool. However, only about one-half (47%) of our sample currently use online didactic approaches to present material in their courses. Also, 58.1% of faculty respondents indicated that they had either “no” or “very little” formal training in the use of the Internet as an instructional method. The distinction between attitudes and behavior is discussed and strategies for the enhancement of formal training of faculty are presented.
An Empirical Analysis of Negotiation Teaching Methodologies Using a Negotiation Support System
Authors: Jones Beth H. , Jones Gary H. , Banerjee Debasish
Published: June 2005

This article describes an experiment that compared different methods of teaching undergraduates the fundamentals of negotiation analysis. Using student subjects, we compared three conditions: reading, lecture-only, and lecture accompanied by student use of a computerized negotiation support system (NSS). The authors examined two facets of learning: comprehension and attitude about the learning experience. Comprehension was measured with quiz scores and attitude was measured by responses on a questionnaire. Results show that comprehension was significantly better in the lecture and lecture/NSS conditions than in the reading condition (no difference in comprehension between lecture and lecture/NSS). Attitude measures show students had a more positive attitude toward the material and about the learning experience in the lecture/NSS condition than the lecture-only; in turn, the attitude of lecture-only subjects was better than the reading-only group.
Effective Group Dynamics in E-Learning: Case Study
Authors: Fisher Mercedes , Thompson Gregory S. , Silverberg David A.
Published: June 2005

Investigating the participant structure that works in online courses helps us design for, and facilitate, collaboration. Learning communities and group work influence collaboration in online courses. We present an exploratory study of computer-mediated groups that used this model to participate in an online MA program in Educational Technology. These participants were organized into groups and collaboratively built knowledge through synchronous and asynchronous online dialogue while leveraging technology as a tool for individual and collaborative learning. We present a detailed case study collected over a two-year span to identify design ideas, structures, and perceptions of effective collaboration and performance. Group formation, support, and sustainability are also explored. Examples are included that not only describe what participants saw as enabling aspects of the structure but also ways in which novice instructors can enhance curriculum development around readings and online discussion. These findings indicate a high index of collaboration and completion compared to homogenous classes where students work on their own.
Water‐soluble photopolymers for rapid prototyping of cellular materials
Authors: Liska R. , Schwager F. , Maier C. , Cano‐Vives R. , Stampfl J.
Published: June 2005

Commercial light‐sensitive resins for Rapid Prototyping of cellular materials are often unsuitable for different molding techniques because removal of the mold uses thermal decomposition at temperatures of up to 600°C. In this study, a resin formulation based on water‐soluble polymers was developed and evaluated regarding its usability as sacrificial mold material. The base monomer dimethylacrylamide gave fast curing and excellent polymer solubility. Methacrylic acid was found to be a useful comonomer to improve mechanical strength and feature resolution. The latter criterion was also improved by adding poly(vinyl pyrrolidone) as filler and by using a hydrolytically cleavable crosslinking agent such as methacrylic acid anhydride. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 97: 2286–2298, 2005
Arsenite oxidation in batch reactors with alginate‐immobilized ULPAs1 strain
Authors: Simeonova Diliana D. , Micheva Kalina , Muller Daniel A.E. , Lagarde Florence , Lett Marie‐Claire , Groudeva Veneta I. , Lièvremont Didier
Published: June 2005

Arsenic is one of the major groundwater contaminants worldwide. It was previously demonstrated that the β‐proteobacterium Cenibacterium arsenoxidans has an efficient As[III] oxidation ability. The present study was conducted to evaluate the performance of alginate‐immobilized ULPAs1 in the oxidation of As[III] to As[V] in batch reactors. A two‐level full factorial experimental design was applied to investigate the influence of main parameters involved in the oxidation process, i.e., pH (7–8), temperature (4°C–25°C), kind of nutrient media (2%–20% sauerkraut brine), and arsenic concentration (10–100 mg/L). One hundred milligram per liter of As[III] was fully oxidized by calcium‐alginate immobilized cells in 1 h. It was found that the temperature as well as the kind of nutrient media used were significant parameters at a 95% confidence interval whereas only temperature was a significant parameter at a 99% confidence interval. The immobilization of the As[III] oxidizing strain in alginate beads offers a promising way to implement new treatment processes in the remediation of arsenic contaminated waters. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.