@misc{Gamaleldin2021,
  type      = {Master Thesis},
  author    = {Gamaleldin, Mariam},
  title     = {Non-canonical Signaling of μ-opioid Receptors},
  doi       = {10.25972/OPUS-24032},
  url       = {http://nbn-resolving.de/urn:nbn:de:bvb:20-opus-240327},
  school      = {Universit{\"a}t W{\"u}rzburg},
  year      = {2021},
  abstract  = {According to the "canonical" paradigm of GPCR signaling, agonist-bound GPCRs only signal to the downstream adenylyl cyclase enzyme when they are seated at the plasma membrane. Upon prolonged binding of an agonist, receptor internalization usually takes place, leading to the termination of this downstream signaling pathway and activation of alternative ones. However, a set of recent studies have shown that at least some GPCRs (e.g. thyroid stimulating hormone receptor) continue signaling to adenylyl cyclase after internalization. In this study, I aimed to investigate canonical signaling by internalized μ opioid receptors (MORs), which are Gi-coupled receptors, using a fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) sensor for cyclic AMP (cAMP) known as Epac1-camps. My results show that the cyclic AMP inhibition signal induced by the binding of DAMGO, a MOR agonist, persists after agonist washout. We hypothesized that this persistent signal might come from internalized DAMGO-bound receptors located in the endosomal compartment. To test this hypothesis, I used dynasore and Dyngo 4a, two dynamin inhibitors that are known to prevent clathrin-mediated endocytosis. Interestingly, dynasore but not Dyngo 4a pretreatment largely blunted the response to MOR activation as well as to adenylyl cyclase activation with Forskolin (FSK). In addition, DAMGO-induced cAMP signal remained persistent even in the presence of 30 M Dyngo 4a. These results might point to a complex interplay between clathrin-mediated internalization and MOR signaling. Further experiments are required to elucidate the mechanisms underlying the persistent MOR signaling and to fully clarify whether MORs are capable of Gi signaling in the endosomal compartment.},
  language  = {en}
}
@misc{Wu2021,
  type      = {Master Thesis},
  author    = {Wu, Dong},
  title     = {Aspects of Gender in The Unofficial History of the Scholars},
  doi       = {10.25972/OPUS-21920},
  url       = {http://nbn-resolving.de/urn:nbn:de:bvb:20-opus-219202},
  school      = {Universit{\"a}t W{\"u}rzburg},
  year      = {2021},
  abstract  = {The present study focuses on Rulin waishi 儒林外史 (The Unofficial History of the Scholars), a well-known Qing novel, from the perspective of gender. It attempts to contribute to the discussion about Chinese masculinity by identifying the representation of the scholars' masculinity in Rulin waishi and offer a better understanding of the novel's position regarding femininity and women. This project shows that the novel nevertheless reflects rather than challenges gender ideologies of its time. The ideal manhood showed in the novel comprises real virtues and authentic learning. It goes against the traditional, orthodox Confucian masculinity which advocates that officialdom is the glorious path to fulfill a learned man's masculinity. It is mainly due to Wu Jingzi's own failure in the civil service examinations and official careers. Regarding the relation of masculinity and sexuality, the novel reveals that a masculine man is not tempted by female charm but can enjoy a harmonious and companionate marriage. Besides, scholars show great anxiety about their masculinity since they are in a marginal position in society. Their manliness is challenged by officials, merchants, and even commoners, as well as their colleagues. Through a careful examination of stories of Pinniang, Miss Lu, and Mrs. Wang, it reveals that the novel holds a conventional opinion on women although it criticizes widow suicide and shows an egalitarian husband-wife relationship. It praises Confucian womanly virtues, such as following and serving the husband, managing the household, and keeping chastity. Female sexuality is blamed as an evil temptation to lead men to go astray. Women's learning gains legitimacy when serving to fulfill domestic responsibilities. It carries the Confucian message that men should take the lead and maintain order in the household and reinforces the rightful patriarchy. In a word, rather than go ahead of its time, Rulin waishi holds a conservative attitude towards gender issues.},
  language  = {en}
}