bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Le terrorisme islamiste au Maroc
Authors: Dialmy Abdessamad
Published: February 2005

English

Moroccan Islamic terrorism is a multi-dimensional phenomenon, at once economic, religious, political, cultural and psychological: it can be considered a total social fact. By distinguishing the theoretical/ideological, organizational and executive levels in his analysis, the author attempts to describe this particularly complex phenomenon and identify the different factors making it 'socio-politically' inevitable. He then analyses the organizations of Moroccan Islamic terrorism, its ideologues and members, and how they transform a young Moroccan into a suicidal Islamic terrorist and the significance to be lent to the suicidal/terrorist acts of Casablanca.

French

Le terrorisme islamiste marocain est un phénomène multidimensionnel, à la fois économique, religieux, politique, culturel et psychologique: il peut être considéré comme un fait social total. En distinguant, dans l'analyse, les niveaux théorico/idéologique, organisationnel et exécutif, l'auteur tente de décrire ce phénomène particulièrement complexe et identifie les différents facteurs qui le rendent 'socio-politiquement' inévitable. Ensuite, il analyse les organisations du terrorisme islamiste marocain, ses idéologues et ses exécutants, la façon dont on transforme un jeune marocain en islamiste suicidaire et la signification à donner aux actes suicidaires/terroristes de Casablanca.
Queering Religious Texts: An Exploration of British Non-heterosexual Christians’ and Muslims’ Strategy of Constructing Sexuality-affirming Hermeneutics
Authors: Yip Andrew K.T.
Published: February 2005

Religious authority figures often use religious texts as the primary basis for censuring homosexuality. In recent years, however, non-heterosexual Christians and Muslims have begun to contest the discursively produced boundary of sexual morality. Drawing upon two research projects on non-heterosexual Christians and Muslims, this article explores the three approaches embedded in this strategy. While acknowledging that homosexuality is indeed portrayed negatively in some parts of religious texts, the participants critique traditional hermeneutics by highlighting its inaccuracy and socio-cultural specificity, and arguing for a contextualized and culturally relevant interpretation. They also critique the credibility of institutional interpretive authority by highlighting its inadequacy and ideology, and relocating authentic interpretive authority to personal experience. Finally, they recast religious texts to construct resources for their spiritual nourishment. This strategy generally reflects the contemporary western religious landscape that prioritizes the authority of the self over that of religious institution.
Distributed Decisions: The Example of Child Access to Primary Health Care
Authors: Buetow Stephen
Published: February 2005

Confronted with uncertainty, who within social networks makes decisions and how? This article suggests a framework for answering these questions. It suggests that decision-making is distributed over time within and among network members. These ‘distributed decisions’ originate in, and develop from, initial decisions, termed ‘proto-decisions’. The process of development of distributed decisions is not merely a social activity. It involves the development over time of mental events by one or more persons through interaction. This framework is illustrated through specific reference to the example of who decides about child access to primary health care, and how. At the same time, it elaborates existing models of health service use. It questions the focus of the Social Organisation Strategy framework on one agent deciding about service utilization (albeit within limits set by the structure and content of social network ties) and on social relationships as the dominant influence on decision-making in social life.
Murdoch’s dilemma, or ‘What’s the price of TV in China?’
Authors: Curtin Michael
Published: February 2005

Satellite television figures prominently in scholarly speculation about globalization, since it has the potential to cross boundaries of class, gender, ethnicity and literacy, in addition to nation. Scholars furthermore suggest that satellite TV moves audiences towards a shared repertoire of images and ideas, thereby encouraging modernization and reflexive forms of representative government. Such lofty speculation fails, however, to take into account the actual operation of media institutions, such as Rupert Murdoch’s Star TV. Closely examining the development of Star since 1993, this essay delineates the forces (infrastructural, political and textual) that transformed what aspired to be the first pan-Asian satellite platform into a niche TV service that panders to the Chinese regulators, provincial bureaucrats and subnational advertisers. The article concludes that ultimately forces on the ground are more influential than high-speed conduits in the sky. It consequently interrogates the reputed power of global media moguls and advocates further institutional research regarding globalization of media.
Voters in a Changing Media Environment
Authors: Schulz Winfried , Zeh Reimar , Quiring Oliver
Published: February 2005

The mediatization of politics in general, and of election campaigns in particular, seems to be an obvious consequence of media changes during recent decades and of an increasing interdependence between political processes and mass communication. As in many other European countries, three trends mark such development in Germany: (1) an enormous expansion of supply of new types of media and content genres, (2) the growing importance of television in political communication and (3) the transformation of election campaigning. Based on election studies and content analysis data, this article examines these changes with regard to their impact on voter behaviour. The article looks for evidence of voter mobilization, television dependency and personalization trends, and discusses potential consequences of a changing campaign style. The findings support and, at the same time, modify some implications of the mediatization hypothesis. They concur with recent scepticism about the notion of Americanization. The article discusses the results with reference to changes in campaigning strategies, e.g. tendencies towards the secularization of election research having repercussions on research concepts and results
Impact or Content?
Authors: Meijer Irene Costera
Published: February 2005

Should public broadcasters pay more attention to ratings, even if this will inevitably entail a lowering of quality? Or should they remain loyal to what they have been doing all along, focusing on their core business of quality programming, even if this means that their audience is likely to become smaller in the years ahead? The issue of ratings versus quality continues to haunt public broadcasting as an unresolved dilemma. This article explores the available exit options. Contrary to the view of most involved - those in the industry, academics and literary critics - the article describes how public broadcasters can better achieve their three main objectives (making quality programmes, supplying good information and involving people in a democratic culture), if they pay more attention to their audiences and also consider ‘impact’ as a hallmark of public quality programming. The ‘enjoyer’, should be taken just as seriously as the familiar ‘citizen’ and ‘consumer’. The argument is based on the careful analysis of policy documents and in-depth interviews with 48 professionals that leads to a breakdown of professional TV quality discourse into five different, often contradictory, repertoires - a taxonomy that is more productive than those commonly used
Introduction
Authors: Rodseth Lars
Published: February 2005

For most of the 20th century, American anthropology lacked an adequate theoretical framework for dealing with power. In 1982, Wolf not only provided such a framework but placed power at the top of the anthropological agenda. In this light, Wolf’s project anticipates many of the later themes that would come to be developed by post-structuralist and postmodernist theorists. Yet, even as Wolf envisaged an anthropology of the future, he paid generous tribute to the past. Europe and the People without History brought the Boasian position full circle by returning to the concerns of the early German diffusionists who, whatever their other shortcomings, could think world-historically without resorting to progressive evolutionism or essentialist notions of Volksgeist. Reactivating the diffusionist wing of American anthropology by injecting it with a theory of power, Wolf cleared the path for a belated synthesis of Boasian and Marxian thought.
Multiobjective Optimization of Laminated Composites using Finite Element Method and Genetic Algorithm
Authors: Deka Dhyan Jyoti , Sandeep G. , Chakraborty D. , Dutta A.
Published: February 2005

The present paper deals with the method of optimum design of laminated composite structures using the finite element method (FEM) and the genetic algorithm (GA) for single-material as well as hybrid laminates. Eight-noded layered elements have been used for 3-D finite element analysis. Weight and cost optimization of Graphite-epoxy/Kevlar-epoxy hybrid composite plate subjected to Tsai-Hill criteria-based design constraint have been carried out. Fiber orientation and material in each lamina, as well as the number of lamina in the laminate have been used as design variables. A multi-objective approach has been used to achieve the optimum design of a laminate for combined weighted cost and weight minimization. The results obtained from the integrated module show that GA with FEM can lead to a global optimal solution for both single as well as multiple objective functions.
Individual and Combined Roles of CTBN and Fly Ash in Epoxy System under Compression: Correlation between Microscopic Features and Mechanical Behavior
Authors: Kishore  , Santra Sanjitarani
Published: February 2005

Epoxy containing fillers of either fly ash or poly(acrylonitrile-co-butadiene), carboxy terminated (CTBN) as single reinforcing material in one program and both the filler materials as hybrid reinforcements into the system in the second were cast and the test coupons cut from the cured slabs were subjected to axial compression strength. The filler proportions in the composites were varied with a view to study the effects of differing characteristics bearing filler materials. The nondeforming, oxide bearing ceramic-type fly ash when incorporated into epoxy showed an increase in compressive strength values with fly ash content up to 10% by weight inclusion after which a drop was noticed. In the case of CTBN, the trend of recording a rise was noticed up to 5% by weight. When the two fillers were introduced simultaneously, the maximum in strength was recorded at a composition constituted by equal amounts of both the fillers comprising a total of 5% by weight. The work was extended to microscopic examination where features like morphology of fillers, the role of matrix-filler interface region as well as the part played by the two fillers when they are present as individual reinforcements were examined. Features such as shear deformation, stepped-appearance, crack blunting and elongation of the rubbery phase, crack pinning, and formation of debonds around the fly ash and CTBN were noticed. The work attempts at correlating the mechanical data to microscopic details. Thus, the drop in strength at higher levels of elastomers (10 and 20% by weight) could be traced to the coalescing of particles. The initial rise in strength noticed in these systems, could be related to the resistance to deformation offered by the well-bonded elastomeric fillers.
Direct Involvement, Representation and Employee Voice in UK Multinationals in Europe
Authors: Wood Stephen J. , Fenton-O’Creevy Mark P.
Published: February 2005

Direct involvement methods are often seen as heralding a new industrial relations in which employee voice is weaker than in systems based on unions or works councils. We test this argument through an empirical study across the European operations of 25 multinationals with headquarters in the UK and find that this is true only when direct voice is used in isolation. Such systems are not uncommon, but more often direct voice coexists with union and other representative channels. It is the variability in the relationship between three channels (direct, representative committee and union) that is significant. This confirms that institutions matter, but we conclude that the subject of industrial relations needs to focus more on the interplay between different voice mechanisms.
Broadening without Intensification: The Added Value of the European Social and Sectoral Dialogue
Authors: de Boer Rob , Benedictus Hester , van der Meer Marc
Published: February 2005

The framework of the European social dialogue (ESD) has enabled interest organizations at the European level to conclude agreements on a wide range of social policy issues. This applies both at the inter-sectoral level and within the various sectors, and has led in the last few decades to the creation of a large number of joint texts. This article addresses the issue of the added value of these results for the parties concluding them. It is argued that the ESD does not constitute a system of industrial relations at the European level, but serves as an alternative lobbying channel for the social partners involved.
The Paradox of the Baltic States: Labour Market Flexibility but Protected Workers?
Authors: Eamets Raul , Masso Jaan
Published: February 2005

This article assesses the strictness of employment protection legislation and its actual enforcement in the Baltic States. We use information from the applicable legislation as well as employer surveys, data on the coverage of labour legislation and the practice of law enforcement. Overall strictness is close to the average of EU countries and relatively well aligned with EU regulations; individual and collective dismissals are relatively heavily and temporary forms of employment relatively weakly regulated. However, effective flexibility is increased by problems of enforcement: there is much evidence of violations of statutory regulations at enterprise level. In addition, the proportion of the workforce actually covered by the regulations is relatively low. In the Baltic States temporary employment is more widespread, implying a higher level of flexibility than the EU average.
A survey of engineers in their information world
Authors: Ward Martin
Published: February 2005

Reports results of a questionnaire survey of 27 Principal Engineers at Ricardo Consulting Engineers, a leading powertrain consultancy, dedicated to the design, testing and research of engines and transmissions, conducted in 1996-1997. The study investigated the degree to which these engineers use informal information sources, such as colleagues, and formal sources, such as their own and their departments’ collections of notes and other literature, and Ricardo’s Information Services Department (ISD), in particular its large textbase of engineering references, POWERLINK. Takes a humanist viewpoint to provide insights into the culture of a leading engineering company and the working lives of its engineers through a study of their need for and use of information, in relation to their biography, their cognitive style, and attitudes to work. A wide range of patterns of library use were revealed: ten respondents visited the library more than once a week; two claimed to be very frequent visitors; eight others claimed to use it about once a week; three said their visits followed no set patterns. The most popular reason for using the library was to consult the database but an objective test of six retrieval methods revealed a severe lack of understanding of basic retrieval techniques, which seemed to conflict with the general attitude of the engineers. Concludes by examining the values underlying the data, such as time, personality, information and communication, as a way of organizing the survey’s findings.
Value of book borrowing from public libraries
Authors: Morris Anne , Hawkins Margaret , Sumsion John
Published: February 2005

Reports results of a study aimed at measuring the value of public libraries services by estimating the value of book loans, based on the value placed by library users on the books read. Users returning books to four public libraries were interviewed over a period of four weeks (July and August 2000) at a time when books were being returned and the users had read and derived value from reading them. The users were asked to place a monetary estimate on their reading experience. While the wording of the questions was refined through a small pilot survey conducted at Loughborough Public Library, the main study was conducted at three other medium-sized public libraries, Bedford, Hinckley and Rugby, chosen because they were large enough to offer a range of services but not large enough to provide the specialist facilities which can attract an unrepresentative clientele. Results obtained from the 557 users returning books in the four public libraries showed that a loan of either fiction or non-fiction books was valued at 30-50 pence, while less than 50 per cent of users put the value above 50 pence and very few were willing to place a value of over £1. The total estimate was approximately 7-8 per cent of the average purchase price of books currently bought in libraries. Concludes that the study confirmed that readers do derive value from borrowing both fiction and non-fiction books and that they are able to make some estimate of that value in money terms based on the purpose for which they were borrowed and the benefit they obtained.
Rational choice and valuation of public libraries
Authors: Aabø Svanhild , Audunson Ragnar
Published: February 2005

While sophisticated economic models are well-established for determining the value of non-market goods, there has been some question as to whether there may be problems connected with using these methods for determining the value of public libraries. The background to these economic models is reviewed, noting that the two major preconditions that must be fulfilled are that the method must be compatible with the presupposition of rationality, and it must be able to capture non-use values of public libraries and values not related to the immediate pursuit of individual self interest in ways which are compatible with the presupposition of rationality. The validity of these preconditions for public libraries is discussed, noting that the questions fall into three main problem areas: whether it is possible to define rational behaviour as a wider concept, including behaviour not motivated by the pursuit of self interest, whether this wider definition fits with the assumptions of ‘behavioural’ economic models, or whether the models need to be revised for a wider definition, and whether or not the methods currently available are valid for the purpose in hand. A brief presentation of the theory of rational choice is presented, followed by an examination of the concepts underlying the assumptions of individuals as economic agents seeking to maximize their utility. It is concluded that three conditions must be fulfilled for non-market methods to be useful with regard to public library valuation: they must be able to measure non-use values as well as use values, they must be capable of integrating valuation motives which extend beyond the pursuit of individual self interest, and they must not violate the assumption of rationality. Among the methods for valuing non-market goods, the contingent valuation method seems to fulfil these conditions and should, therefore, be tested in a public library context.
Glass ceiling issues in the UK library profession
Authors: Jones Elizabeth , Oppenheim Charles
Published: February 2005

Reports results of a study to determine whether the UK library profession suffers from so-called ‘intraoccupational sex segregation’ whereby men dominate the senior positions within the profession’s institutions. Particular attention is paid to the so-called ‘glass ceiling’ whereby women find a barrier to promotion when they reach their forties but who have up until then enjoyed a reasonably successful career. The perceived barriers are considered, including: lack of academic qualifications; salary differences; geographical mobility; domestic responsibilities; lack of female role models; the need for mentors; and lack of ambition. A questionnaire survey was undertaken involving randomly chosen members of the Library Association using electronic mail and post with telephone interviews conducted with some of the respondents used to complement the questionnaire and to expand on issues arising. Results indicated that glass ceiling issues in libraries are still concerns for many women in the profession. The lack of qualifications do not seem to pose a barrier to promotion and the main barrier appears to be due to domestic responsibilities, particularly taking a career break to bring up children. Concludes that, for many women, the glass ceiling is imposed by themselves. It is often their choice to take a career break or to move to a new location for the sake of their husband’s or partner’s job, and it is their choice to put the needs of their family first before their own career ambitions. For many of the older women in the sample, the choice they had to make was between having children and having a career.
Editorial
Authors: Goulding Anne
Published: February 2005

Discusses the Who’s in Charge? report by Tim Coates which provoked considerable debate within the public library community on its publication as well as national press interest. The report highlights the poor value for money of public libraries in the light of declining visitor numbers and book issues as well as the inefficiency of management practices. Although many in the public library sector concede that Who’s in Charge? does identify and discuss some serious issues facing public libraries, the solutions offered, focusing primarily on the redistribution of staffing costs, are considered unrealistic and insufficient. Suggests that the impact of social developments is underestimated in the report and that modern lifestyles have had a significant effect on public library use. Questions the view proposed in the report that the public want libraries as they have always been and contends that such a strategy will not attract non-users. Considers the problems facing many public library buildings and suggests their solution requires a more radical approach and a larger injection of funds than the redistribution suggested by Coates would provide. Notes that there has been some good news for public libraries with visitor numbers on the up-turn nationally and issue figures rising in some authorities. Concludes that extra funding is required to address the years of underinvestment suffered by public libraries.
Electronic book usage in public libraries
Authors: Dearnley James , McKnight Cliff , Morris Anne
Published: February 2005

This article reports on one aspect of a Laser Foundation-funded research project that tested different models of e-book delivery and offered guidelines for developing e-book collections in UK public libraries. An e-book collection was offered to library users (primarily, users relying on a mobile library service) on Personal Digital Assistant (PDA) devices at Essex County Libraries. The article considers reaction from both library users and staff. A number of positive and negative reactions to e-books were noted, and the indicative results point to the conclusion that dedicated PDA collections still offer questionable benefits for use in public libraries.
European Integration, Public Opinion and Immigration Policy
Authors: Luedtke Adam
Published: February 2005

This article empirically investigates the effect of national identity on public opinion towards European Union (EU) control over immigration policy. The EU has recently gained some control over immigration policy, but has faced strong opposition from reluctant national politicians. This study argues that public opinion is an important factor in explaining such reluctance. I propose a hypothesis of national identity to explain public opinion, positing that those who identify with their nation-states (vis-à-vis Europe) are less likely to support EU control over immigration policy than are those who identify with ‘Europe’. Using logistic regression, this factor is shown to be stronger than support for European integration, opinions about immigrants themselves, and other variables such as economic calculation, political ideology, age and gender.
Spanish nationalism
Authors: Muro Diego , Quiroga Alejandro
Published: February 2005

In recent years, it has been a common complaint among scholars to acknowledge the lack of research on Spanish nationalism. This article addresses the gap by giving an historical overview of ‘ethnic’ and ‘civic’ Spanish nationalist discourses during the last two centuries. It is argued here that Spanish nationalism is not a unified ideology but it has, at least, two varieties. During the 19th-century, both a ‘liberal’ and a ‘conservative-traditionalist’ nationalist discourse were formulated and these competed against each other for hegemony within the Spanish market of ideas. In the 20th-century, these two discourses continued to be present and became backbones of different political regimes. However, after the emergence of the Basque and Catalan nationalist movements, Spanish nationalists unified as a counter-force to these regional sources of identity. In fact, one can see 20th-century Spanish nationalism as a dialectical struggle between the centre and the periphery.
The future reach of the disembodied will
Authors: Rakowski Eric
Published: February 2005

Many US states now allow people to create private trusts that continue indefinitely. Is it unjust to permit settlors to benefit their descendants without temporal limitation? Although perpetual trusts might seem self-indulgent impositions on posterity, no leading theory of distributive justice appears to bar their creation. The societal benefits from increased work effort and savings by potential settlors probably outweigh any societal drawbacks to perpetual trusts if trustees can sell or encumber trust property, justifying their availability in a utilitarian state. Various libertarian theories would give donors this freedom as well. In addition, liberal egalitarians should permit them, subject to redistributive taxes appropriately designed to benefit the less fortunate.
Critical Thinking and Complementary and Alternative Medicine Education at a Small University: Program Evolution and Lessons Learned
Authors: Freeman Lyn W. , Welton Derek
Published: February 2005

Patient use of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) has resulted in diverse educational initiatives in universities around the country. This article describes the creation of a CAM continuing-education pilot program delivered to a diverse group of practicing medical professionals in Alaska. Program strengths include emphasis on critical thinking strategies, identification of cultural barriers, a multidisciplinary medical team approach, and program development with limited funding. A minor degree in CAM evolved from the lessons learned with the continuing education program. The minor degree in CAM is in its pilot phase and is evidence based. The University of Alaska at Anchorage is exploring the minor in CAM as an online offering to graduate students seeking master’s degrees in public health and potentially as part of degree completion programs. The online approach will make the minor degree accessible to Alaskans across the state and in remote villages.
Influence of patient symptoms and physical findings on general practitioners' treatment of respiratory tract infections: a direct observation study
Authors: Fischer Thomas , Fischer Susanne , Kochen Michael M , Hummers-Pradier Eva
Published: February 2005

Background

The high rate of antibiotic prescriptions general practitioners (GPs) make for respiratory tract infections (RTI) are often explained by non-medical reasons e.g. an effort to meet patient expectations. Additionally, it is known that GPs to some extent believe in the necessity of antibiotic treatment in patients with assumed bacterial infections and therefore attempt to distinguish between viral and bacterial infections by history taking and physical examination. The influence of patient complaints and physical examination findings on GPs' prescribing behaviour was mostly investigated by indirect methods such as questionnaires.

Methods

Direct, structured observation during a winter "cough an cold period" in 30 (single handed) general practices. All 273 patients with symptoms of RTI (age above 14, median 37 years, 51% female) were included.

Results

The most frequent diagnoses were 'uncomplicated upper RTI/common cold' (43%) followed by 'bronchitis' (26%). On average, 1.8 (95%-confidence interval (CI): 1.7–2.0) medicines per patient were prescribed (cough-and-cold preparations in 88% of the patients, antibiotics in 49%). Medical predictors of antibiotic prescribing were pathological findings in physical examination such as coated tonsils (odds ratio (OR) 15.4, 95%-CI: 3.6–66.2) and unspecific symptoms like fatigue (OR 3.1, 95%-CI 1.4–6.7), fever (OR 2.2, 95%-CI: 1.1–4.5) and yellow sputum (OR 2.1, 95%-CI: 1.1–4.1). Analysed predictors explained 70% of the variance of antibiotic prescribing (R2 = 0,696). Efforts to reduce antibiotic prescribing, e.g. recommendations for self-medication, counselling on home remedies or delayed antibiotic prescribing were rare.

Conclusions

Patient complaints and pathological results in physical examination were strong predictors of antibiotic prescribing. Efforts to reduce antibiotic prescribing should account for GPs' beliefs in those (non evidence based) predictors. The method of direct observation was shown to be accepted both by patients and GPs and offered detailed insights into the GP-patient-interaction.
Teaching appropriate interactions with pharmaceutical company representatives: The impact of an innovative workshop on student attitudes
Authors: Wofford James L , Ohl Christopher A
Published: February 2005

Background

Pharmaceutical company representatives (PCRs) influence the prescribing habits and professional behaviour of physicians. However, the skills for interacting with PCRs are not taught in the traditional medical school curriculum. We examined whether an innovative, mandatory workshop for third year medical students had immediate effects on knowledge and attitudes regarding interactions with PCRs.

Methods

Surveys issued before and after the workshop intervention solicited opinions (five point Likert scales) from third year students (n = 75) about the degree of bias in PCR information, the influence of PCRs on prescribing habits, the acceptability of specific gifts, and the educational value of PCR information for both practicing physicians and students. Two faculty members and one PCR led the workshop, which highlighted typical physician-PCR interactions, the use of samples and gifts, the validity and legal boundaries of PCR information, and associated ethical issues. Role plays with the PCR demonstrated appropriate and inappropriate strategies for interacting with PCRs.

Results

The majority of third year students (56%, 42/75) had experienced more than three personal conversations with a PCR about a drug product since starting medical school. Five percent (4/75) claimed no previous personal experience with PCRs. Most students (57.3%, 43/75) were not aware of available guidelines regarding PCR interactions. Twenty-eight percent of students (21/75) thought that none of the named activities/gifts (lunch access, free stethoscope, textbooks, educational CD-ROMS, sporting events) should be restricted, while 24.0% (8/75) thought that students should be restricted only from sporting events. The perceived educational value of PCR information to both practicing physicians and students increased after the workshop intervention from 17.7% to 43.2% (chi square, p = .0001), and 22.1% to 40.5% (p = .0007), respectively. Student perceptions of the degree of bias of PCR information decreased from 84.1% to 72.9% (p = .065), but the perceived degree of influence on prescribing increased (44.2% to 62.1% (p = .02)).

Conclusions

Students have exposure to PCRs early in their medical training. A single workshop intervention may influence student attitudes toward interactions with PCRs. Students were more likely to acknowledge the educational value of PCR interactions and their impact on prescribing after the workshop intervention.
HIV-1 Tat interacts with LIS1 protein
Authors: Epie Nicolas , Ammosova Tatyana , Sapir Tamar , Voloshin Yaroslav , Lane William S , Turner Willie , Reiner Orly , Nekhai Sergei
Published: February 2005

Background

HIV-1 Tat activates transcription of HIV-1 viral genes by inducing phosphorylation of the C-terminal domain (CTD) of RNA polymerase II (RNAPII). Tat can also disturb cellular metabolism by inhibiting proliferation of antigen-specific T lymphocytes and by inducing cellular apoptosis. Tat-induced apoptosis of T-cells is attributed, in part, to the distortion of microtubules polymerization. LIS1 is a microtubule-associated protein that facilitates microtubule polymerization.

Results

We identified here LIS1 as a Tat-interacting protein during extensive biochemical fractionation of T-cell extracts. We found several proteins to co-purify with a Tat-associated RNAPII CTD kinase activity including LIS1, CDK7, cyclin H, and MAT1. Tat interacted with LIS1 but not with CDK7, cyclin H or MAT1 in vitro. LIS1 also co-immunoprecipitated with Tat expressed in HeLa cells. Further, LIS1 interacted with Tat in a yeast two-hybrid system.

Conclusion

Our results indicate that Tat interacts with LIS1 in vitro and in vivo and that this interaction might contribute to the effect of Tat on microtubule formation.
Corticosterone in drinking water: altered kinetics of a single oral dose of corticosterone and concentrations of plasma sodium, albumin, globulin, and total protein
Authors: Pung Thitiya , Zimmerman Kurt , Klein Bradley , Ehrich Marion
Published: February 2005

Effects of chronic exposure to corticosterone in drinking water on corticosterone kinetics, blood chemistry, and concentrations of catecholamines in parts of brain were studied in Long-Evans rats. Rats were randomly grouped into 3-2 treatments (n-4), with three treatments of drinking water (tap water, or 2.5% ethanol, or 400 mg/mL of corticosterone in 2.5% ethanol) for 28 days and two treatments of gavage with a single dose of either corn oil or corticosterone 20 mg/kg on day 28. Blood samples were collected at 0, 15, 30, 60, 120, 240, 480, and 720 min after dosing to determine plasma corticosterone concentrations. Blood samples were collected for clinical pathology on day 42. Hippocampus, cerebral cortex, caudate-putamen, and pons were examined to determine concentrations of catecholamines and activities of esterases. Concentrations of plasma corticosterone before gavage of the corticosterone-drinking rats (47.619 ± 1.13 ng/mL) were lower than the water (418.479 ± 1.13 ng/mL) or the ethanol rats (383.719 ± 1.13 ng/mL, P <0.0001). Plasma corticosterone rose to peak concentrations by 15 min after gavage in all three groups of drinking rats. Corticosterone- drinking rats had concentrations of plasma corticosterone that returned to basal levels slower than water- and ethanol-drinking rats. Plasma sodium and chloride concentrations were lower in the corticosterone-drinking rats than the water-drinking rats P <0.01). Plasma albumin, globulin, and total protein were highest in the corticosterone-drinking rats when compared to the other groups of drinking rats P <0.001, P <0.05, and P <0.001, respectively). Corticosterone in drinking water did not affect activities of brain neurotoxic esterase, carboxylesterase, acetylcholinesterase, or concentrations of monoamines and their metabolites. A single oral dose of corticosterone reduced neurotoxic esterase activity in the cerebral cortex P <0.05) and increased norepinephrine concentrations in the hippocampus P <0.05).
5-HT loss in rat brain by type II pyrethroid insecticides
Authors: Martínez-Larrañaga María R , Anadón Arturo , Martínez María A , Martínez Marta , Castellano Victor J , Díaz María J
Published: February 2005

Study objective: Type II pyrethroids are a group of insecticides largely used in agriculture and public health. The nervous system is the main target for pyrethroids in insects and mammals. One notable form of toxicity associated with over exposure has been a facial cutaneous paraesthesia and irritation-related respiration symptoms including behavioural excitation mainly observed in workers spraying pyrethroids or in occupational settings. In acutely exposed rats, type II pyrethroids produce a severe syndrome characterized by salivation and choreoathetosis. Because many of the acute functional effects of type II pyrethoids can be associated with the neurotoxic effect on 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) neurones, the objective of the present study was to examine whether deltamethrin, cyfluthrin and l-cyhalothrin administration results in changes of 5-HT content in rat brain. Characterizing this target will help us to better understand the toxicological effects of type II pyrethroids. Design: Rats were injected with either corn oil or pyrethroids (deltamethrin, 20 mg/kg per day, i.p., for 6 days; cyfluthrin, 14 mg/kg per day, i.p., for 6 days; l-cyhalothrin, 8 mg/kg per day, i.p., for 6 days). The frontal cortex, hippocampus, midbrain and striatum were removed at 24 hours post treatment and were analysed for content of 5-HT and 5-HIAA using a HPLC method with electrochemical detection. Results: A serotonin depleting effect was produced by these type II pyrethroids. The concentration of 5-HT and its metabolite 5-HIAA decreased in the brain regions from pyrethroid treated animals. Pyrethroids accelerated the turnover of 5-HT in midbrain and striatum areas. It is concluded that pyrethroids affect serotonin neurotransmission.
Renal manifestations of the antiphospholipid syndrome
Authors: D’Cruz D P
Published: February 2005

Renal thrombotic manifestations have been reported since the earliest descriptions of the antiphospholipid (Hughes) syndrome (APS). The spectrum of clinical features associated with antiphospholipid nephropathy continues to widen. This review will highlight recent developments such as the prevalence of hypertension, livedo reticularis and renal artery stenosis as well as the ultrastructural changes seen in antiphospholipid nephropathy. The increasing risks of renal transplantation in antiphospholipid antibody positive patients is also discussed leading some authors to question whether these patients should undergo transplantation at all.
Lupus nephritis flares
Authors: Sidiropoulos P I , Kritikos H D , Boumpas D T
Published: February 2005

The clinical course of lupus nephritis varies remarkably among SLE patients, even between those with the same histological type. Current immunosuppressive agents induce remission in the majority of the patients with proliferative lupus nephritis, but a substantial proportion of them - ranging in different studies from 27% to 66% - will flare. Flares represent a significant problem because of the potential for cumulative damage that may lead to deterioration of renal function as well as toxicity due to the additional immunosuppression. Maintenance therapy with azathioprine, mycophenolate mofetil or quarterly pulses of cyclophosphamide is usually recommended. Renal flares can be characterized as nephritic or nephrotic and can be mild or severe. The majority of the patients that flare restore renal function, if diagnosed early and treated promptly. However, current immunosuppressive agents have limitations concerning efficacy and toxicity profiles. Unresolved management issues include the value of repeat renal biopsy and issues related to optimal strategy/regimen to prevent flares. Renal flares are an important feature of the natural history of lupus nephritis and provide an opportunity for additional preventive strategies, as well as measures of efficacy in future therapeutic trials.
Cyclophosphamide in lupus nephritis
Authors: Houssiau F A
Published: February 2005

Although not licensed for systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), cyclophosphamide (CYC) has become over the last two decades the most widely prescribed cytotoxic drug for lupus nephritis (LN). A PubMed search using ‘lupus nephritis and cyclophosphamide’ as key words identifies not less than 454 papers on the topic. This should, however, not disguise the fact that its use is still controversial and that many issues remain debated, such as the timing and length of treatment, the route of administration and the ideal dosage. In this review, the different CYC regimes on the basis of the results of prospective randomized trials performed in LN patients is discussed.
Membranous lupus nephritis
Authors: Austin H A , Illei G G
Published: February 2005

Membranous lupus nephritis (MLN) represents about 20% of clinically significant renal disease in lupus. Few studies have addressed directly the pathogenesis of MLN. Our assumptions about the underlying mechanisms are based on the combination of extrapolations from idiopathic membranous nephritis (mainly from animal models) and proliferative lupus nephritis. Natural history studies of MLN suggest a relatively low rate of progression to end-stage renal disease but a high rate of significant comorbidities. Historical changes in the criteria for pathologic diagnosis and classification of membranous lupus nephropathy have precluded definitive descriptions of the natural history, prognosis and treatment of this disorder. Patients with membranous lupus nephropathy should be treated early with angiotensin antagonists to minimize proteinuria, as well as lifestyle changes and appropriate drugs to reduce attendant cardiovascular risk factors. In patients with protracted nephrotic syndrome, consideration should be given to immunosuppressive therapies, including corticosteroids, cyclosporine, mycophenolate and cyclophosphamide. Prospective controlled trials are clearly needed in order to establish solid clinical practice guidelines for use of these drugs and other experimental therapies currently under study in membranous lupus nephropathy.
Lupus nephritis in children
Authors: Perfumo F , Martini A
Published: February 2005

In systemic lupus erythematosus renal involvement is more frequent in children than in adults. Overall, 60-80% of children with systemic lupus erythematosus have urinary or renal function abnormalities early in the disease course. In 90% of patients, renal disease occurs within two years from disease onset. Clinically significant renal involvement ranges from asymptomatic urinary findings to nephrotic syndrome and renal failure. Long-term prognosis is similar to that observed in adults. Treatment aspects that are peculiar to children include drug side-effects, such as growth inhibition induced by steroids, the need to consider morbidity-related issues with respect to the very long life expectancy of patients and the problems related to the impact of disease in adolescents. The recent availability of a childhood SLE definition of improvement and the presence of large international paediatric rheumatology networks should, in the future, facilitate the implementation of controlled clinical trials devoted to paediatric SLE.
Elevated Lymphocyte Expression of CLIP Is Associated with Type 1 Diabetes and May Be a Useful Marker of Autoimmune Susceptibility
Authors: SILVA DIEGO G. , SOCHA LUIS , CORRECHA MANUEL , PETROVSKY NIKOLAI
Published: February 2005

Abstract: Type 1 diabetes (T1D) susceptibility in humans and in the non‐obese diabetic mouse is linked to MHC class II molecules characterized by an amino acid substitution at position 57 of the beta‐chain (nonAspB57). The mechanism whereby nonAspB57 MHC molecules contribute to diabetes susceptibility is not currently known. As CLIP is displaced from MHC class II molecules upon peptide binding, if nonAspB57 haplotypes are associated with high CLIP expression, this may reflect a defect in peptide loading. Non‐obese diabetic mice have higher mononuclear cell CLIP expression than non‐diabetes prone strains, raising the question of whether humans with T1D also exhibit increased CLIP levels. We therefore sought to test whether subjects with T1D have higher levels of leukocyte CLIP expression. Cell surface expression of CLIP was measured on lymphocytes and monocytes using a FITC‐conjugated antibody against human CLIP (Pharmingen). Leukocyte CLIP expression was significantly higher in the blood of T1D patients compared to non‐diabetic controls. Increased CLIP expression was not a secondary effect of hyperglycemia as CLIP expression was not increased in subjects with type 2 diabetes. This confirms that elevated CLIP expression is a feature of T1D and may be a useful marker for T1D susceptibility.
Optimal Cutoff Point of Glutamate Decarboxylase Antibody Titers in Differentiating Two Subtypes of Adult‐Onset Latent Autoimmune Diabetes
Authors: LI X. , ZHOU Z. G. , HUANG G. , YAN X. , YANG L. , CHEN X. Y. , WANG J. P.
Published: February 2005

Abstract: The optimal cutoff point of glutamate decarboxylase antibody (GAD‐Ab) titers for differentiating two latent autoimmune diabetes (LADA) subtypes remains unclear. One hundred and forty‐five GAD‐Ab‐positive patients screened from phenotypic type 2 diabetes were diagnosed as LADA. The clinical features were compared among LADA patients with different GAD‐Ab titers. The receiver‐operating characteristic (ROC) curve was used to evaluate the diagnostic value of GAD‐Ab titers and to define the optimal cutoff point. The heterogeneity of clinical features in LADA could be discriminated by five GAD‐Ab titers, with maximal differences at the titer of 175 U/mL. The ROC curve analysis showed that the optimal cutoff point for discriminating two LADA subtypes was at the titer of 175 U/mL, with sensitivity and specificity of 54.5% and 92.1%, respectively. These findings demonstrated that the two clinically distinct subtypes of LADA can be optimally discriminated by the GAD‐Ab titers.
MICA Gene Polymorphism in HBDI Multiplex Families
Authors: NIKITINA‐ZAKE LIENE , GHADERI MEHRAN , PARK YONGSOO , BABU SUNANDA , EISENBARTH GEORGE , SANJEEVI CARANI B.
Published: February 2005

Abstract: T1DM is a disease that affects pancreatic beta cells and results in severe insulin depletion. T1DM is a multigenic disease, and the strongest genetic association with this disease is shown by the genes in MHC class II, namely, DQA1 and DQB1. The other gene that has been implicated in susceptibility to T1DM is the MICA gene that lies within the MHC class I region. This gene has been investigated in many autoimmune diseases, including T1DM, in case‐control as well as in family studies. The aim of our study was to test the transmission of MICA microsatellite alleles from unaffected parents to T1DM‐ affected offspring in HBDI multiplex nuclear families. We also looked at the transmission of MICA alleles together with high‐risk DQA1‐DQB1 haplotypes to determine the independent transmission of MICA alleles. We observed that MICA6 and MICA9 are transmitted to affected offspring less frequently than expected, and MICA5.1 was more frequently transmitted. DQA1 and DQB1 high‐risk haplotypes were transmitted more frequently than expected and DQ6, which is a protective haplotype, was less frequently transmitted to affected offspring. Analysis of MICA‐DQA1‐DQB1 transmission showed that certain MICA alleles are preferably transmitted as a part of high‐risk haplotypes, which might indicate that MICA together with high‐risk HLA is associated with T1DM in this family material. However, this latter analysis should be repeated on a larger family sample.