bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Biochemical and immunological characterization of the plant‐derived candidate human immunodeficiency virus type 1 mucosal vaccine CTB–MPR649–684
Authors: Matoba Nobuyuki , Kajiura Hiroyuki , Cherni Irene , Doran Jeffrey D. , Bomsel Morgane , Fujiyama Kazuhito , Mor Tsafrir S. 
Published: November 2008

SummaryPlants are potentially the most economical platforms for the large‐scale production of recombinant proteins. Thus, plant‐based expression of subunit human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV‐1) vaccines provides an opportunity for their global use against the acquired immunodeficiency syndrome pandemic. CTB–MPR649–684[CTB, cholera toxin B subunit; MPR, membrane proximal (ectodomain) region of gp41] is an HIV‐1 vaccine candidate that has been shown previously to induce antibodies that block a pathway of HIV‐1 mucosal transmission. In this article, the molecular characterization of CTB–MPR649–684 expressed in transgenic Nicotiana benthamiana plants is reported. Virtually all of the CTB–MPR649–684 proteins expressed in the selected line were shown to have assembled into pentameric, GM1 ganglioside‐binding complexes. Detailed biochemical analyses on the purified protein revealed that it was N‐glycosylated, predominantly with high‐mannose‐type glycans (more than 75%), as predicted from a consensus asparagine–X–serine/threonine (Asn‐X‐Ser/Thr) N‐glycosylation sequon on the CTB domain and an endoplasmic reticulum retention signal attached at the C‐terminus of the fusion protein. Despite this modification, the plant‐expressed protein retained the nanomolar affinity to GM1 ganglioside and the critical antigenicity of the MPR649–684 moiety. Furthermore, the protein induced mucosal and serum anti‐MPR649–684 antibodies in mice after mucosal prime‐systemic boost immunization. Our data indicate that plant‐based expression can be a viable alternative for the production of this subunit HIV‐1 vaccine candidate.
MUSLIM PERSPECTIVES ON STEM CELL RESEARCH AND CLONING
Authors: Al‐Hayani Fatima Agha 
Published: November 2008

Abstract.In Islam, the acquisition of knowledge is a form of worship. But human achievement must be exercised in conformity with God's will. Warnings against feelings of superiority often are coupled with the command to remain within the confines of God's laws and limits. Because of the fear of arrogance and disregard of the balance created by God, any new knowledge or discovery must be applied with careful consideration to maintaining balance in the creation. Knowledge must be applied to ascertain equity and justice for all of humanity. Research in Islam must be linked to the broad ethical base set forth in the Qur'an and the Sunnah. Whether embryonic stem cell research or cloning is ethically acceptable in Islam depends on the benefits derived from such applications. What is most important for the scholars is to adhere to the concepts of compassion, mercy, and benefit to everyone.
SIMPLIFYING HEURISTICS VERSUS CAREFUL THINKING: SCIENTIFIC ANALYSIS OF MILLENNIAL SPIRITUAL ISSUES
Authors: Levine Daniel S. , Perlovsky Leonid I. 
Published: November 2008

Abstract.There is ample evidence that humans (and other primates) possess a knowledge instinct—a biologically driven impulse to make coherent sense of the world at the highest level possible. Yet behavioral decision‐making data suggest a contrary biological drive to minimize cognitive effort by solving problems using simplifying heuristics. Individuals differ, and the same person varies over time, in the strength of the knowledge instinct. Neuroimaging studies suggest which brain regions might mediate the balance between knowledge expansion and heuristic simplification. One region implicated in primary emotional experience is more activated in individuals who use primitive heuristics, whereas two areas of the cortex are more activated in individuals with a strong knowledge drive: one region implicated in detecting risk or conflict and another implicated in generating creative ideas. Knowledge maximization and effort minimization are both evolutionary adaptations, and both are valuable in different contexts. Effort minimization helps us make minor and routine decisions efficiently, whereas knowledge maximization connects us to the beautiful, to the sublime, and to our highest aspirations. We relate the opposition between the knowledge instinct and heuristics to the biblical story of the fall, and argue that the causal scientific worldview is mathematically equivalent to teleological arguments from final causes. Elements of a scientific program are formulated to address unresolved issues.
SUPPORT FOR A NEUROPSYCHOLOGICAL MODEL OF SPIRITUALITY IN PERSONS WITH TRAUMATIC BRAIN INJURY
Authors: Johnstone Brick , Glass Bret A. 
Published: November 2008

Abstract.Recent research suggests that spiritual experiences are related to increased physiological activity of the frontal and temporal lobes and decreased activity of the right parietal lobe. The current study determined if similar relationships exist between self‐reported spirituality and neuropsychological abilities associated with those cerebral structures for persons with traumatic brain injury (TBI). Participants included 26 adults with TBI referred for neuropsychological assessment. Measures included the Core Index of Spirituality (INSPIRIT); neuropsychological indices of cerebral structures: temporal lobes (Wechsler Memory Scale‐III), right parietal lobe (Judgment of Line Orientation), and frontal lobes (Trail Making Test, Controlled Oral Word Association Test). As hypothesized, spirituality was significantly negatively correlated with a measure of right parietal lobe functioning and positively correlated (nonsignificantly) with measures of left temporal lobe functioning. Contrary to hypotheses, correlations between spirituality and measures of frontal lobe functioning were zero or negative (and nonsignificant). The data support a neuropsychological model that proposes that spiritual experiences are related to decreased activity of the right parietal lobe, which may be associated with decreased awareness of the self (transcendence) and increased activity of the left temporal lobe, which may be associated with the experience of specific religious archetypes (religious figures and symbols).
NATURAL LAWS AND DIVINE INTERVENTION: WHAT DIFFERENCE DOES BEING PENTECOSTAL OR CHARISMATIC MAKE?
Authors: Yong Amos 
Published: November 2008

Abstract.The question about divine action remains contested in the discussion between theology and science. This issue is further exacerbated with the entry of pentecostals and charismatics into the conversation, especially with their emphases on divine intervention and miracles. I explore what happens at the intersection of these discourses, identifying first how the concept of “laws of nature” has developed in theology and science and then probing what pentecostal‐charismatic insights might add into the mix. Drawing from the triadic and evolutionary metaphysics of Charles Sanders Peirce, I propose a reconsideration of the “laws of nature” as habitual, dynamic, and general but nevertheless real tendencies through which the Holy Spirit invites the world to inhabit the coming kingdom of God. This proposal contributes to the articulation of an authentic Pentecostal‐charismatic witness at the theology‐and‐science table while also enabling a more plausible and coherent account of divine action for pentecostal‐charismatic piety and Christian practice in the twenty‐first century.
Targeting inhibition of GluR1 Ser845 phosphorylation with an RNA aptamer that blocks AMPA receptor trafficking
Authors: Liu Yingmiao , Sun Qi‐An , Chen Qiang , Lee Tong H. , Huang Yangzhong , Wetsel William C. , Michelotti Gregory A. , Sullenger Bruce A. , Zhang Xiuwu 
Published: November 2008

AbstractPhosphorylation at glutamate receptor subunit 1(GluR1) Ser845 residue has been widely accepted to involve in GluR1‐containing α‐amino‐3‐hydroxy‐5‐methyl‐4‐isoxazolepropionic acid (AMPA) receptor trafficking, but the in vivo evidence has not yet been established. One of the main obstacles is the lack of effective methodologies to selectively target phosphorylation at single amino acid residue. In this study, the Escherichia coli‐expressed glutathione‐S‐transferase‐tagged intracellular carboxyl‐terminal domain of GluR1 (cGluR1) was phosphorylated by protein kinase A for in vitro selection. We have successfully selected aptamers which effectively bind to phospho‐Ser845 cGluR1 protein, but without binding to phospho‐Ser831 cGluR1 protein. Moreover, pre‐binding of the unphospho‐cGluR1 protein with these aptamers inhibits protein kinase A‐mediated phosphorylation at Ser845 residue. In contrast, the pre‐binding of aptamer A2 has no effect on protein kinase C‐mediated phosphorylation at Ser831 residue. Importantly, the representative aptamer A2 can effectively bind the mammalian GluR1 that inhibited GluR1/GluR1‐containing AMPA receptor trafficking to the cell surface and abrogated forskolin‐stimulated phosphorylation at GluR1 Ser845 in both green fluorescent protein–GluR1‐transfected human embryonic kidney cells and cultured rat cortical neurons. The strategy to use aptamer to modify single‐residue phosphorylation is expected to facilitate evaluation of the potential role of AMPA receptors in various forms of synaptic plasticity including that underlying psychostimulant abuse.
Bi‐directional modulation of fast inhibitory synaptic transmission by leptin
Authors: Solovyova Natasha , Moult Peter R. , Milojkovic Bogdan , Lambert Jeremy J. , Harvey Jenni 
Published: November 2008

AbstractThe hormone leptin has widespread actions in the CNS. Indeed, leptin markedly influences hippocampal excitatory synaptic transmission and synaptic plasticity. However, the effects of leptin on fast inhibitory synaptic transmission in the hippocampus have not been evaluated. Here, we show that leptin modulates GABAAreceptor‐mediated synaptic transmission onto hippocampal CA1 pyramidal cells. Leptin promotes a rapid and reversible increase in the amplitude of evoked GABAAreceptor‐mediated inhibitory synaptic currents (IPSCs); an effect that was paralleled by increases in the frequency and amplitude of miniature IPSCs, but with no change in paired pulse ratio or coefficient of variation, suggesting a post‐synaptic expression mechanism. Following washout of leptin, a persistent depression (inhibitory long‐lasting depression) of evoked IPSCs was observed. Whole‐cell dialysis or bath application of inhibitors of phosphoinositide 3 (PI 3)‐kinase or Akt prevented leptin‐induced enhancement of IPSCs indicating involvement of a post‐synaptic PI 3‐kinase/Akt‐dependent pathway. In contrast, blockade of PI 3‐kinase or Akt activity failed to alter the ability of leptin to induce inhibitory long‐lasting depression, suggesting that this process is independent of PI 3‐kinase/Akt. In conclusion these data indicate that the hormone leptin bi‐directionally modulates GABAAreceptor‐mediated synaptic transmission in the hippocampus. These findings have important implications for the role of this hormone in regulating hippocampal pyramidal neuron excitability.
Diacylglycerol analogues activate second messenger‐operated calcium channels exhibiting TRPC‐like properties in cortical neurons
Authors: Tu Peng , Kunert‐Keil Christiane , Lucke Silke , Brinkmeier Heinrich , Bouron Alexandre 
Published: November 2008

AbstractThe lipid diacylglycerol (DAG) analogue 1‐oleoyl‐2‐acetyl‐sn‐glycerol (OAG) was used to verify the existence of DAG‐sensitive channels in cortical neurons dissociated from E13 mouse embryos. Calcium imaging experiments showed that OAG increased the cytosolic concentration of Ca2+([Ca2+]i) in nearly 35% of the KCl‐responsive cells. These Ca2+responses disappeared in a Ca2+‐free medium supplemented with EGTA. Mn2+quench experiments showed that OAG activated Ca2+‐conducting channels that were also permeant to Ba2+. The OAG‐induced Ca2+responses were unaffected by nifedipine or omega‐conotoxin GVIA (Sigma‐Aldrich, Saint‐Quentin Fallavier, France) but blocked by 1‐[β‐(3‐(4‐Methoxyphenyl)propoxy)‐4‐methoxyphenethyl]‐1H‐imidazole hydrochloride (SKF)‐96365 and Gd3+. Replacing Na+ions withN‐methyl‐d‐glucamine diminished the amplitude of the OAG‐induced Ca2+responses showing that the Ca2+entry was mediated via Na+‐dependent and Na+‐independent mechanisms. Experiments carried out with the fluorescent Na+indicator CoroNa Green showed that OAG elevated [Na+]i. Like OAG, the DAG lipase inhibitor RHC80267 increased [Ca2+]i but not the protein kinase C activator phorbol 12‐myristate 13‐acetate. Moreover, the OAG‐induced Ca2+responses were not regulated by protein kinase C activation or inhibition but they were augmented by flufenamic acid which increases currents through C‐type transient receptor potential protein family (TRPC) 6 channels. In addition, application of hyperforin, a specific activator of TRPC6 channels, elevated [Ca2+]i. Whole‐cell patch‐clamp recordings showed that hyperforin activated non‐selective cation channels. They were blocked by SKF‐96365 but potentiated by flufenamic acid. Altogether, our data show the presence of hyperforin‐ and OAG‐sensitive Ca2+‐permeable channels displaying TRPC6‐like properties. This is the first report revealing the existence of second messenger‐operated channels in cortical neurons.
Invasion phylogeography of the Ponto‐Caspian crustacean Limnomysis benedeni dispersing across Europe
Authors: Audzijonyte Asta , Wittmann Karl J. , Ovcarenko Irina , Väinölä Risto 
Published: November 2008

ABSTRACTAim  Limnomysis benedeni Czerniavsky, 1882 is a mysid crustacean native to the Ponto‐Caspian (Black and Caspian Sea) rivers and estuaries, and has recently spread across Europe through intentional and unintentional introductions. We explored the structuring of genetic variation in native and non‐native populations with an aim to trace the sources of the invasions, and to infer whether the spread has occurred through a single or multiple invasion waves.Location  Native estuaries in the Ponto‐Caspian basin (Volga, Don, Dnieper, Dniester, Danube) and the recently colonized range along the Danube–Rhine river systems and Lithuania.Methods  A fragment of the mitochondrial COI gene was sequenced to assess genetic affinities and diversity in native and recently established populations.Results  The genetic diversity in the native regions is organized into several strongly diverged haplotype groups or lineages, partly allopatric, partly sympatric. All these lineages have also spread beyond the native range. Even the recent rapid dispersal across Europe along the Danube–Rhine system towards the North Sea basin involved several lineages from the Danube delta sector. The structuring of genetic diversity among invaded sites suggests multiple invasion events to the Danube–Rhine drainage. This contrasts with data from some other Ponto‐Caspian species, where a single haplotype seems to have occupied most invaded areas. There is no evidence that intentionally stocked reservoirs in the Baltic Sea basin would have contributed to further unintentional spread of L. benedeni.Main conclusions  Limnomysis benedeni is spreading across Europe using the southern invasion corridor. The invasion most likely involved several waves from differentiated sources in the native Danube delta area.
Patterns and Determinants of International Trade Costs in the Food Industry
Authors: Olper Alessandro , Raimondi Valentina 
Published: November 2008

Abstract This paper documents patterns in international trade costs in processed foods for a large cross‐section of developing and developed countries, during the 1976–2000 period. A trade costs index is inferred from a micro‐founded gravity equation that incorporates bilateral ‘iceberg’ trade costs. For 2000, the trade costs, expressed as weighted average tariff equivalent, range from 73% for the north to 134% for the south countries. The time patterns show an average reduction of about 13% in the observed period that rises to 26% for the emerging countries. However, the same does not occur for south countries. On ranking the trade costs determinants, we find that, on average, geographical and historical factors seem to dominate those of infrastructure and institutions. However, trade policy emerges as an important determinant of the trade costs between north and emerging countries.
The α1‐Adrenergic Receptor Antagonist, Prazosin, Reduces Alcohol Drinking in Alcohol‐Preferring (P) Rats
Authors: Rasmussen Dennis D. , Alexander Laura L. , Raskind Murray A. , Froehlich Janice C. 
Published: November 2008

Background:  Preliminary evidence suggest that noradrenergic signaling may play a role in mediating alcohol drinking behavior in both humans and rats. Accordingly, we tested the hypothesis that blockade of α1‐adrenergic receptors will suppress alcohol drinking in rats selectively bred for alcohol preference (P line).Methods:  Adult male P rats were given 24‐hour access to food and water and scheduled access to a 15% (v/v) alcohol solution for 2 hours daily. Rats were injected IP with the α1‐adrenergic receptor antagonist, prazosin (0, 0.5, 1.0, 1.5, or 2.0 mg/kg body weight), once a day at 15 minutes prior to onset of the daily 2‐hour 2‐bottle choice, alcohol versus water, access period for 2 consecutive days and then 3 weeks later for 5 consecutive days.Results:  Prazosin significantly reduced (p < 0.01) alcohol intake during the initial 2 daily administrations, and this reduction of alcohol intake was maintained for 5 consecutive days by daily prazosin treatment in the subsequent more prolonged trial (p < 0.05). The prazosin‐induced reduction of alcohol intake was not dependent upon drug‐induced motor impairment since increases in water drinking (p < 0.05) were exhibited during the 2‐hour access periods during both 2‐ and 5‐day prazosin treatment.Conclusions:  The results indicate that the noradrenergic system plays a role in mediating alcohol drinking in rats of the P line and suggest that prazosin—a safe, well‐characterized, and well‐tolerated drug—may be an effective pharmacotherapeutic agent for the treatment of alcohol use disorders.
Early Social Isolation in Male Long‐Evans Rats Alters Both Appetitive and Consummatory Behaviors Expressed During Operant Ethanol Self‐Administration
Authors: McCool Brian A. , Chappell Ann M. 
Published: November 2008

Background:  Postweaning social isolation in rats produces profound and long‐lasting cognitive and behavioral deficits in adult animals. Importantly, this housing manipulation alters sensitivity to a number of drugs of abuse including ethanol. However, most studies with ethanol have utilized continuous or limited home‐cage access to examine interactions between juvenile social experience and drinking. More recently, social isolation was shown to increased ethanol responding in a “dipper” model of self‐administration (Deehan et al., 2007). In the current study, we utilize a “sipper” operant self‐administration model to distinguish the effects of isolation rearing on ethanol seeking‐ and drinking‐related behaviors.Methods:  Postweaning juvenile male Long‐Evans rats were placed into 2 housing groups for 6 weeks: one group consisted of individually housed animals; the second group was housed 4 animals per cage. Following the isolation period, anxiety‐like behavior was assessed to confirm the efficacy of the isolation procedure. In some animals, ethanol drinking in the home cage was assessed using a continuous access, 2‐bottle choice paradigm. All animals were then individually housed and trained to lever‐press for a sipper tube containing either an ethanol solution or a sucrose solution.Results:  Postweaning social isolation increased the expression of anxiety‐like behavior in the elevated plus maze but not the light‐dark box. Ethanol consumption was also increased during continuous home‐cage access with the 2‐bottle choice paradigm. During operant self‐administration, isolation housing increased the response rate and increased ethanol consumption but did not alter responding for or consumption of sucrose. The housing manipulation did not change the total number of lever responses during extinction sessions. Paired‐pulse inhibition deficits that are characteristic of juvenile isolation remained intact after prolonged experience with sucrose self‐administration.Discussion:  The effects of postweaning social isolation on ethanol drinking in the home cage are also manifest during operant self‐administration. Importantly, these alterations in adult operant self‐administration are ethanol‐specific.
Alcohol‐Induced Tolerance and Physical Dependence in Mice With Ethanol Insensitive α1 GABAAReceptors
Authors: Werner David F. , Swihart Andrew R. , Ferguson Carolyn , Lariviere William R. , Harrison Neil L. , Homanics Gregg E. 
Published: November 2008

Background: Although many people consume alcohol (ethanol), it remains unknown why some become addicted. Elucidating the molecular mechanisms of tolerance and physical dependence (withdrawal) may provide insight into alcohol addiction. While the exact molecular mechanisms of ethanol action are unclear, γ‐aminobutyric acid type A receptors (GABAA‐Rs) have been extensively implicated in ethanol action. The α1 GABAA‐R subunit is associated with tolerance and physical dependence, but its exact role remains unknown. In this report, we tested the hypothesis that α1‐GABAA‐Rs mediate in part these effects of ethanol.Methods: Ethanol‐induced behavioral responses related to tolerance and physical dependence were investigated in knockin (KI) mice that have ethanol‐insensitive α1 GABAA‐Rs and wildtype (WT) controls. Acute functional tolerance (AFT) was assessed using the stationary dowel and loss of righting reflex (LORR) assays. Chronic tolerance was assessed on the LORR, fixed speed rotarod, hypothermia, and radiant tail‐flick assays following 10 consecutive days of ethanol exposure. Withdrawal‐related hyperexcitability was assessed by handling‐induced convulsions following 3 cycles of ethanol vapor exposure/withdrawal. Immunoblots were used to assess α1 protein levels.Results: Compared with controls, KI mice displayed decreased AFT and chronic tolerance to ethanol‐induced motor ataxia, and also displayed heightened ethanol‐withdrawal hyperexcitability. No differences between WT and KI mice were seen in other ethanol‐induced behavioral measures. Following chronic exposure to ethanol, control mice displayed reductions in α1 protein levels, but KIs did not.Conclusions: We conclude that α1‐GABAA‐Rs play a role in tolerance to ethanol‐induced motor ataxia and withdrawal‐related hyperexcitability. However, other aspects of behavioral tolerance and physical dependence do not rely on α1‐containing GABAA‐Rs.