bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Extension and Further Validation of a Community-based Consumer Well-being Measure
Authors: Sirgy M. Joseph , Lee Dong-Jin , Grzeskowiak Stephan , Chebat Jean-Charles , Johar J.S. , Hermann Andreas , Hassan Salah , Hegazy Ibrahim , Ekici Ahmet , Webb Dave , Chenting Su  , Montana Jordi
Published: July 2008

The goal of this study is to extend the research and further validation of Lee and colleagues' measure of community-based consumer well-being. The measure is based on the notion that consumers experience well-being to the extent that they are satisfied with local marketplace experiences related to (1) shopping for desired consumer goods and services in the local area, (2) preparing locally purchased consumer durables for personal use, (3) consuming locally purchased goods and services, (4) owning consumer durables purchased in the local area, (5) using repair and maintenance services in the local area, and (6) using selling, trading-in, and disposal services in the local area. Data were collected from ten localities in nine countries/states (California, Minnesota, Canada, Australia, Spain, Germany, Switzerland, Turkey, Egypt, and China) using the mall intercept method. The data provided support for the predictive/nomological validity of the measure by providing empirical support for the relationship between the consumer well-being construct and other well-being constructs such as life satisfaction.
The Search for a Dominant Logic
Authors: Layton Roger A.
Published: July 2008

This paper suggests an extension to the Vargo and Lusch (2004) proposal where the fundamental unit of analysis is not the exchange itself but a marketing system within which the service dominant exchange is embedded. The relevant marketing system could range from a micro-system in which the reciprocal creation of value through a single transaction between a buyer and seller is considered, to purposeful, structured, or emergent systems (such as supply chains, business ecosystems, or shopping malls), to the aggregate marketing system. Five criteria are suggested that should be met by any proposed dominant logic or world view. The system-embedded service-dominant (SESD) logic meets all five criteria and may reverse the growing fragmentation occurring in both micro- and macromarketing. It redefines the relationship between micro- and macromarketing and in focusing attention on a meso level of analysis it opens up new horizons for research. In a multidisciplinary setting it highlights what is intrinsic to marketing—exchange within a marketing systems framework.
Discrepancies and Rates of Publication in Orthopaedic Sports Medicine Abstracts
Authors: Kleweno Conor P. , Bryant Whitney K. , Jacir Albert M. , Levine William N. , Ahmad Christopher S.
Published: July 2008

Background

Presentations of clinically relevant data at AOSSM national meetings are presented yearly and may influence clinical decision making.

Hypothesis

The incidence of presentations that do not subsequently get published is high, and the numbers of major and minor inconsistencies, once published, are also high.

Study Design

Systematic review.

Methods

A database was created of all abstracts presented at AOSSM meetings from 1999 to 2001 from official program books. To assess whether each abstract had been followed by publication in a peer-reviewed journal, a PubMed search was conducted to include a 5-year follow-up for each conference. Minor inconsistencies included differences in title, authors, presentation of all outcomes, and authors’ interpretation of data. Major inconsistencies included discrepancies in study objective and/or hypothesis, study design, primary and secondary outcome measures, sample size, statistical analysis, results, and standard deviations/confidence intervals.

Results

Overall, 98 of the 165 abstracts presented at AOSSM national meetings from 1999 to 2001 were published in a peer-reviewed journal within 5 years, a publication rate of 59.4%. The median time to publication for all articles was 21 (range, 1–60) months. The majority of articles (61) were published in the American Journal of Sports Medicine (62.2%). The median number of major and minor inconsistencies from abstract to publication was 1 (range, 0–5) and 1 (range, 0–4), respectively. Sixty-two of the 98 published abstracts (63%) had at least 1 major inconsistency, while 79 (81 %) had at least 1 minor inconsistency. In 5 manuscripts (5%), the authors’ interpretation of the data had changed, and in 2 (2%), the change essentially invalidated the abstract.

Conclusion

A large number of scientific presentations do not get published in a peer-reviewed journal. In addition, those published have a significant number of changes that, in a small percentage of cases, alter the validity of the original presentation.

Clinical Relevance

Orthopaedic surgeons and other attendees as well as nonattendees who reference conference abstracts need to exercise good judgment when considering the implications of oral presentations of unpublished materials. When reviewing meeting presentation abstracts, readers should remember that the material being presented is often not in its definitive or ultimate form.
Effectiveness of Retrofitting Damaged Concrete Beams with Sprayed Fiber-reinforced Polymer Coating
Authors: Lee H.K. , Hausmann R.L. , Seaman W.C.
Published: July 2008

An experimental investigation is conducted to evaluate the repair and strengthening performance of sprayed FRP coating on damaged plain and reinforced concrete beams. A series of flexure strength tests on damaged plain concrete beams repaired with sprayed FRP coating were carried out to evaluate the structural enhancement of the coating. The effects of parameters, such as coating thickness, fiber length, and fiber concentration, on the performance of repaired plain concrete beams were systematically investigated. The repair ability of the coating on precracked reinforced concrete beams was then quantified by comparing and contrasting it with other repair materials (e.g., fiber-reinforced mortar). The results, in conjunction with experimental observations reported in a preceding article, indicate that the sprayed FRP coating is capable of substantially increasing the strength as well as the ductility, and is effective in repair and strengthening of damaged concrete beams.
When `No' Means `Yes, But'
Authors: Kemmerling Achim
Published: July 2008

In situations where an electoral boycott is feasible, both voters and party leaders sometimes exhibit apparently irrational behavior. We argue that in some cases this can be explained by a strategic rationale. To exemplify this claim we use an empirical puzzle: the Polish accession referendum only passed the turnout threshold because of people who voted `no'. This is puzzling, since these people could easily have stayed at home without hurting the collective interest of their group. Conventional wisdom argues that the `no'-campaign fought an uphill battle and made tactical errors. In addition, voters were supposedly not aware of their strategic situation. We argue that some of these people did not oppose enlargement, but the terms of the negotiation process between the EU and Poland. Microeconometric evidence depicts the common characteristics of these moderately Eurosceptic voters. Moreover, a stylized game-theoretic model shows that Eurosceptic party leaders have behaved in an optimal way that produced benefits for these voters. We deduce a mixed equilibrium which fits the politicians' behavior best.
Simultaneous Optimization of Structure and Control of Smart Tensegrity Structures
Authors: Raja M. Ganesh , Narayanan S.
Published: July 2008

A Multidisciplinary design optimization of a smart tensegrity structure using genetic algorithm is considered as a mixed discrete-continuous objective programing problem. Robust H2 and H∞ controller norms are considered as the objective. Performance of the H 2 and H∞ controllers for vibration control of the tensegrity structures are compared. A nested optimization strategy is used. The optimal gain matrix of the controller and estimator is found by solution of the corresponding Ricatti equations in the inner iteration as the first step. The optimal structural parameters are found in the outer iteration as the next step. Design variables include twist angle and the locations of the actuator, which are either discrete or continuous. The force generated by the electro-mechanical coupling of the piezoelectric actuator is used in the formulation. The tensegrity structure of class 1, comprising of two modules with piezoelectric actuators, is optimized.
Control of Ionic Polymer-Metal Composites for Active Catheter Systems via Linear Parameter-Varying Approach
Authors: Lin Hui-Hung , Fang Bo-Kai , Ju Ming-Shaung , Lin Chou-Ching K.
Published: July 2008

The ionic polymer metal composite (IPMC) is one type of electro-active material with the characteristics of low electric driving potential, large deformation, and aquatic manipulation. It is highly attractive to biomedical applications as an actuator or a sensor. The main purpose of this study is to explore closed-loop control schemes to an IPMC actuator for active catheter systems. In this article, by measuring frequency responses of a 20 mm × 5 mm × 200 μm IPMC, an empirical model is developed and used for closed-loop control. From previous work, two resonant peaks ranged at 3—4 Hz and 18—20 Hz are found in the Bode diagram for the frequency responses of IPMC. Based on this fact, a 4th order transfer function was modeled to describe the system. A parameter-dependent transfer function was then created to describe the bending dynamics of IPMC in response to different driving voltages. As IPMC actuators are nonlinear and slow time-varying systems, the controller was designed using linear parameter varying (LPV) approach. Compared with the conventional closed-loop PID control, the maximum overshoot and steady-state error was decreased to 2% and 1.32%, respectively. The rise time was about 0.186 s, which is within the limit for many biomedical applications.
Hope, Fear, and the Mollification of the Vanquished in Hobbes's Behemoth or the Long Parliament
Authors: Abosch Yishaiya
Published: July 2008

Contrary to a standard view that Hobbes recommends elimination of private opinion by enlarging fear of violent death, in Behemoth, his dialogue on the causes of the English Civil War, he shows how to shift the balance of hope and fear that can motivate obedience but also engender rebellion. By linking recent events to historical struggles for power, Hobbes's teacher transfers the student's fear of destruction at the hands of domestic “enemies” to all individuals as insatiable seekers of power. Meanwhile, the student's hope of security is shifted from real or imagined heroes to the depersonalized institutions of Restoration England.
Datascape: A Synthesis of Digital and Embodied Worlds
Authors: Kabisch Eric
Published: July 2008

Digital and synthetic worlds are often conceived as self-contained entities that exist in abstracted and remote spaces. The author elaborates an approach to hybrid space that instead focuses on local contexts of digital information correlated with the embodied spaces people inhabit—an informational substrate that both describes and regulates human activity. The author presents a mobile interactive art installation as a way to bring geographically referenced information out of databases and into everyday experience of traveling through the world. Datascape enables a hybrid ecology whereby participants author dynamic geographic narratives that compose a digital world coextensive with the planet Earth. A vehicle-mounted digital periscope engenders action between passengers and a visual and sonic landscape that unfolds and emerges based on conversations between people, data, and dynamic representational entities that compose the landscape. By allowing people to view and interact with information descriptive of the location in which it is encountered, Datascape enables awareness of and engagement with the hybrid digital/physical spaces people traverse and inhabit in their everyday lives.
Placeworlds: Using Virtual Worlds to Foster Civic Engagement
Authors: Gordon Eric , Koo Gene
Published: July 2008

This article describes a pilot program in Boston, Massachusetts, that incorporates virtual worlds into the urban planning process. The authors argue that the immersive, playful, and social qualities of the virtual world Second Life are uniquely appropriate to engage people in dialogue about their communities. By sharing experiences of a planned space and having the opportunity to deliberate over, comment on, and alter that space, previously disempowered individuals are able to form politically powerful groups. This takes place through the formation of what the authors call placeworlds, a subgroup of the Habermasian lifeworld that is organized around the shared understanding of place. Second Life and similar virtual world platforms offer profound possibilities for how local communities can imagine themselves as political actors in the face of global and homogenizing political systems.
`Not Gay, but Not Homophobic': Male Sexuality and Homophobia in the `Lifestyle'
Authors: Frank Katherine
Published: July 2008

This article explores the relative lack of male same-sex activity in heterosexual `swinging', or `the lifestyle', especially compared to the ubiquity of female same-sex activity and eroticism. `Lifestyle sexuality' is conceptualized as a system of erotic relations and a cultural experience as a way of theorizing beyond identity and the binary oppositions of homo/hetero or straight/queer that often underlie discussions of sexual desire, practice, and homophobia (Ward, 2007). Desires, aesthetics, sexual styles, ethical premises, and beliefs about gender and sexuality are variously configured in different heterosexual communities. Exploring their specificities strengthens our ability to analyze distributions of power, privilege and stigma, and allows us to explore more precisely how changing meanings of love, sex, and commitment, along with developments in the organization and experience of late capitalism, are affecting sexual practices and identities. The analysis here thus examines how lifestyle sexuality is integrated into other political, economic, social, cultural, and erotic spheres and what this means for theorizations of homophobia and heteronormativity.
The rhetorics and myths of anti-piracy campaigns: criminalization, moral pedagogy and capitalist property relations in the classroom
Authors: Yar Majid
Published: July 2008

This article deals with current attempts by copyright industries (music, motion pictures and computer software) to challenge and criminalize practices of piracy and copyright theft, especially in relation to internet usage. A number of anti-piracy campaigns, all aimed at schoolchildren, are critically examined. It is argued that their advocacy of copyright and their corresponding objections to piracy rest on a number of rhetorical strategies which encode capitalist and individualist conceptions of property, creativity and rights. These strategies are elucidated and examined so as to draw attention to their contingent, partial and mythical character. Alternative understandings of intellectual expression are mobilized so as to delineate a case for legitimizing, rather than demonizing, cultural copying practices.
Media use and relational closeness in long-term friendships: interpreting patterns of multimodality
Authors: Ledbetter Andrew M.
Published: July 2008

Although most friendships use a variety of media to stay in touch, many studies have ignored the multimodality of social life. This study uses media niche theory to consider: changes in patterns of media use across time, which modalities tend to be used in association with other modalities; and the association between specific modalities and relational closeness. Data assessing modality usage and degree of friendship closeness were collected on best friendship pairs in 1987 and 2002. The results suggest that postal mail use has declined between 1987 and 2002, telephone contact has become a particularly potent predictor of relational closeness, and face-to-face contact is a less stable indicator of closeness. Intimacy and efficiency or convenience emerge as two potentially important constructs for understanding how modalities are used for maintaining relational closeness.
From the air to the ground: the internet in the 2004 US presidential campaign
Authors: Vaccari Cristian
Published: July 2008

Political campaigns have learned how to take advantage of online tools not only to communicate their message, but also, and more importantly, to mobilize supporters and provide opportunities for e-volunteers to become engaged in the process. Among the most significant developments in the 2004 US presidential election were strategies and tools designed to facilitate the transition from online to off-line engagement, thus strengthening field operations in a campaign where the ground game proved to be a crucial asset. These topics are addressed through in-depth qualitative interviews with senior aides to the e-campaigns of George W. Bush and John F. Kerry. Online political communication professionals predict that in the future the internet will become an increasingly relevant tool in campaigns and that its functions will be adopted all through the campaign organization.
Prison privatization
Authors: Shefer Guy , Liebling Alison
Published: July 2008

This article explores one interesting finding emerging from early findings of studies comparing private and public prisons in the UK: the relationship between prisoners and staff. These relationships appear to be better in some private prisons than in the public sector, at least during the early years of privatization. After presenting these findings, the authors provide three possible explanations for the positively evaluated prisoner—staff relationships in many private prisons during these early years: first, an intentional focus on relaxed and less formal regimes; second, the distinct balance of power which is the outcome of more powerless and inexperienced staff working in private prisons; and third, the legacy of a punitive atmosphere which still persists in some public sector prisons. While these findings do not constitute an argument in favour of privatization, they provide an opportunity to be less romantic about public sector values and practices, and more circumspect about the dangers of imprisonment more generally.
Criminal convictions among children and young adults
Authors: Soothill Keith , Ackerley Elizabeth , Francis Brian
Published: July 2008

This study focuses on court conviction rates—that is, the numbers and proportion of the population in England and Wales who are convicted of a crime between the ages of 10—25. Data on over 47,000 male and 10,000 female offenders for six specific birth cohorts (those born in 1953, 1958, 1963, 1968, 1973 and 1978) were extracted from the Offenders Index. We related convictions in three age groups (10—15, 16—20, 21—25) to population estimates for these age groups. Striking differences in the conviction rates over time were observed for both males and females. There is a remarkable decline among the 10—15 age group for more recent cohorts which echoes the increasing use of court diversionary procedures in this age group. There is no corresponding increase in conviction rates for the later age groups. These figures suggest that efforts in the 1980s and early 1990s to divert offenders away from court convictions have been successful, and that such diversionary schemes need to be encouraged.
Invited review: Profiling structural elements of short-chain lipopolysaccharide of non-typeable Haemophilus influenzae
Authors: Schweda Elke K.H. , Twelkmeyer Brigitte , Jianjun Li
Published: July 2008

Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) is a major virulence determinant of the human bacterial pathogen Haemophilus influenzae. A characteristic feature of H. influenzae LPS is the extensive intra- and inter-strain heterogeneity of glycoform structure which is key to the role of the molecule in both commensal and disease-causing behaviour of the bacterium. The chemical composition of non-typeable Haemophilus influenzae (NTHi) LPS is highly diverse. It contains a number of different monosaccharides (Neu5Ac, L- glycero-D- manno heptose, D- glycero -D- manno heptose, Kdo, D-Glc, D-Gal, D-GlcNAc, D-GalNAc) and non-carbohydrate substituents. Prominent non-carbohydrate components are O-acetyl groups, glycine and phosphates. We now know that sialic acid ( N-acetylneuraminic acid or Neu5Ac) and certain oligosaccharide extensions are important in the pathogenesis of NTHi; however, the biological implications for many of the various features are still unknown. Electrospray ionization mass spectrometry in combination with separation techniques like CE and HPLC is an indispensable tool in profiling glycoform populations in heterogeneous LPS samples. Mass spectrometry is characterized by its extreme sensitivity. Trace amounts of glycoforms expressing important virulence determinants can be detected and characterized on minute amounts of material. The present review focuses on LPS structures and mass spectrometric methods which enable us to profile these in complex mixtures.
Sensitivity analysis of history dependent material mechanical models for numerical simulation of welding process
Authors: Zhang Z.-L. , Silvanus J. , Li H.-K. , Shi Q.-Y.
Published: July 2008

Yield stress of 6013-T6 aluminium alloy was tested on Gleeble 1500D thermal–mechanical system at predesigned temperatures during different typical thermal cycles, in order to accurately reflect the influence of weld thermal history on material properties. The typical thermal cycles were referred to the temperature field simulation results of real welding process. The changes of yield stress were obtained directly from the stress–strain curves generated by the tensile tests. The tests were more accurate than previous publications, where only the yield stresses at room temperature after thermal history were tested or calculated from microstructure evolution model. Experimental results showed that the changes of yield stress during the cooling stage of typical thermal cycles followed one set of curves. These yield stress–temperature curves were different from those during the heating stage. Temperature and temperature history dependent material model M2 and M3 were established based on the experimental results. M2 model was perfectly plastic model while work hardening effect was considered in M3 model. Compared with conventional temperature dependent material model M1, the distributions of longitudinal residual stress and strain obtained with temperature and temperature history dependent models fit better with published results. Yield stress of the material at the weld zone decreased a lot after having experienced weld thermal history and longitudinal compressive plastic strain at the weld zone recovered to some extent during the cooling stage in M2 and M3 models. These were the main causes for lower peak longitudinal residual tensile stress in M2 and M3 models.
Probing into diffusion bonding of laser surface treated γ-Ti–Al alloy/Ti–6Al–4V alloy
Authors: Wang X. F. , Luo Z. C. , Liu X. B. , Lin J. G.
Published: July 2008

In this work, a novel diffusion bonding technique combining the laser surface treatment (LST) with the diffusion bonding is used to join a γ-Ti–Al alloy with a Ti–6Al–4V alloy. By using the LST and subsequent heat treatment, a layer with a fine grain structure can be obtained on their surface of the two alloys. The diffusion bonding behaviour between γ-Ti–Al alloy and Ti–6Al–4V alloy with or without LST under the different bonding conditions is investigated. The result reveals that LST can improve the diffusion bonding behaviour of the two alloys, and the three point bending strength of the joints can be promoted. The sound bonding between the two alloys with the LST is achieved at 1173 K under 80 MPa in 2 h.
Welding of Ti–6Al–4V and TiB2–Ni cermet using pulsed current heating
Authors: Peng Y. , Fu Z. Y. , Wang W. M. , Zhang J. Y. , Wang Y. C. , Wang H. , Zhang Q. J.
Published: July 2008

Ti–6Al–4V alloy was joined with TiB2–Ni cermet by using pulsed current heating and hot pressing. The properties were found to be better with the pulsed current process, because the current enhanced the growth of Ni–Ti phase at the junction between the two materials. Furthermore, the heat affected zone is localised in the pulsed current process relative to that in the hot pressed material.
Microstructure characterisation of magnetic pulse welded AA6061-T6 by electron backscattered diffraction
Authors: Zhang Y. , Babu S. S. , Zhang P. , Kenik E. A. , Daehn G. S.
Published: July 2008

The grain boundary crystallographic misorientations of magnetic pulse welded (MPW) AA6061-T6 in linear and tubular configurations were examined using the electron backscattered diffraction (EBSD) technique. A refined structure of heavily deformed grains with higher grain boundary angles was observed in linear welds. Significant spalling was observed away from the welded region, in the interior of tubular welds. The results show the complex interaction of shock waves with the materials during this impact welding process.
Modelling of deformation and failure of crash toughened adhesive bonded lap shear joints
Authors: Lu L. , Zhao H. Y. , Cai Z. P. , Wang P. C. , Fickes John
Published: July 2008

With an increase in the use of advanced high strength steels in vehicle architectures, materials joining issues have become increasingly important. Among the various joining methods, adhesive bonding is increasingly used in automobile manufacturing. Successful implementation of adhesive bonding to improve structural crashworthiness and reduce vehicle weight requires the knowledge of issues related not only to processing but also to joint performance. In this study, a new anisotropic yield criterion which is determined from tensile and shear tests, is developed and incorporated into a finite element model to predict the static load displacement curves of various adhesive bonded steel joints. In the developed model, when the calculated plastic strain of bonded steel joint reaches the equivalent plastic strain of the adhesive the joint is regarded as failed. Modelling results have been validated by the experimental data. Since the model covers different steel grades, gages, and overlap distances, the model can be used to predict the static strengths of adhesive bonded assemblies. Finally, the model is employed to evaluate the effect dissimilar steel grades and sheet gages on the joint strength of lap shear bonded steel joints. The results show that for the joints made of dissimilar steel grade and sheet gage, the stiffness (i.e. strength and thickness) of the two adherends should be balanced to obtain the optimum joint strength.
Biofouling control of titanium by microroughness reduction
Authors: Gopal J. , Tata B. V. R. , George R. P. , Muraleedharan P. , Dayal R. K.
Published: July 2008

The effects of repeated pickling and polishing on biofouling of titanium surfaces were investigated using a confocal laser scanning microscope (CLSM) and standard microbiological methods. Titanium surfaces (i) once pickled (control), (ii) repeatedly pickled (five pickling cycles of 5 min duration) and (iii) polished (surface finish of 1000 grit silicon carbide paper) were exposed to seawater. A decrease of one order of magnitude in bacterial and algal attachment was recorded on the repeatedly pickled and polished titanium surfaces compared to the control surfaces. Statistical analysis of the data was carried out using MYSTAT software involving Tukey-Kramer Multiple CLSM used as an effective tool to measure the microroughness of the test surfaces as well as to quantify the biofilm forming tendency on these surfaces. The results indicated that microroughness reduction leads to significant decrease in biofouling.
Hypersensitivity pneumonitis secondary to lovebirds: a new cause of bird fancier's disease
Authors: Funke M. , Fellrath J-M.
Published: July 2008

Hypersensitivity pneumonitis (HP) is an immunologically mediated lung disease due to the repetitive inhalation of antigens. Most new cases arise from residential exposures, notably to birds, and are thus more difficult to recognise.

The present authors report a 59-yr-old male who complained of dyspnoea and cough while being treated with amiodarone. Pulmonary function tests revealed restriction and obstruction with low diffusing lung capacity for carbon monoxide and partial pressure of oxygen. A high-resolution computed tomography chest scan and bronchoalveolar lavage showed diffuse bilateral ground-glass attenuation and lymphocytic alveolitis, respectively.

Initial diagnosis was amiodarone pulmonary toxicity, but because of a rapidly favourable evolution, this diagnosis was questioned. A careful environmental history revealed a close contact with lovebirds shortly before the onset of symptoms. Precipitins were strongly positive against lovebird droppings, but were negative against other avian antigens. The patient was diagnosed with hypersensitivity pneumonitis to lovebirds. Avoidance of lovebirds and steroid treatment led to rapid improvement.

The present observation identifies a new causative agent for hypersensitivity pneumonitis and highlights the importance of a thorough environmental history and of searching for precipitins against antigens directly extracted from the patient's environment. These two procedures should allow a more precise classification of some cases of pneumonitis, and thus might avoid progression of active undiagnosed hypersensitivity pneumonitis to irreversible fibrosis or emphysema.
Exhaled breath condensate biomarkers in COPD
Authors: Borrill Z. L. , Roy K. , Singh D.
Published: July 2008

Biomarkers in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease may be useful in aiding diagnosis, defining specific phenotypes of disease, monitoring exacerbations and evaluating the effects of drugs. Exhaled breath condensate is a noninvasive means of sampling the airways, allowing biomarkers of airway inflammation and oxidative stress to be measured. In the present review, the use of exhaled breath condensate biomarkers in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease is explored and potential applications in diagnosis, disease phenotyping, exacerbation monitoring and clinical trials are considered. Exhaled breath condensate biomarkers are comprehensively reviewed in terms of method validation, reproducibility, disease specificity and sensitivity to detect changes in airway inflammation.

The commonly used exhaled breath condensate methodologies in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients are shown to have considerable variability, due to technical issues concerning both sample collection and analysis. Despite these issues, there is still data to support the use of exhaled breath condensate biomarkers for monitoring chronic obstructive pulmonary disease exacerbations and the response to pharmacological intervention. Further improvements to sample collection and analysis methods will improve the sensitivity of these biomarkers. The use of cytokine arrays, mass spectrometry and nuclear magnetic resonance profiling of exhaled breath condensate has opened a new avenue for analysis, as hypothesis generation from such profiling may lead to further selection of biomarkers for specific analysis.
Msx1 and Msx2are required for endothelial-mesenchymal transformation of the atrioventricular cushions and patterning of the atrioventricular myocardium
Authors: Chen Yi-Hui , Ishii Mamoru , Sucov Henry M , Maxson Robert E
Published: July 2008

Background

Msx1 and Msx2, which belong to the highly conserved Nk family of homeobox genes, display overlapping expression patterns and redundant functions in multiple tissues and organs during vertebrate development. Msx1 and Msx2 have well-documented roles in mediating epithelial-mesenchymal interactions during organogenesis. Given that both Msx1 and Msx2 are crucial downstream effectors of Bmp signaling, we investigated whether Msx1 and Msx2 are required for the Bmp-induced endothelial-mesenchymal transformation (EMT) during atrioventricular (AV) valve formation.

Results

While both Msx1-/- and Msx2-/- single homozygous mutant mice exhibited normal valve formation, we observed hypoplastic AV cushions and malformed AV valves in Msx1-/-; Msx2-/- mutants, indicating redundant functions of Msx1 and Msx2 during AV valve morphogenesis. In Msx1/2 null mutant AV cushions, we found decreased Bmp2/4 and Notch1 signaling as well as reduced expression of Has2, NFATc1 and Notch1, demonstrating impaired endocardial activation and EMT. Moreover, perturbed expression of chamber-specific genes Anf, Tbx2, Hand1 and Hand2 reveals mispatterning of the Msx1/2 double mutant myocardium and suggests functions of Msx1 and Msx2 in regulating myocardial signals required for remodelling AV valves and maintaining an undifferentiated state of the AV myocardium.

Conclusion

Our findings demonstrate redundant roles of Msx1 and Msx2 in regulating signals required for development of the AV myocardium and formation of the AV valves.
Transcriptional profiling of putative human epithelial stem cells
Authors: Koçer Salih S , Djurić Petar M , Bugallo Mónica F , Simon Sanford R , Matic Maja
Published: July 2008

Background

Human interfollicular epidermis is sustained by the proliferation of stem cells and their progeny, transient amplifying cells. Molecular characterization of these two cell populations is essential for better understanding of self renewal, differentiation and mechanisms of skin pathogenesis. The purpose of this study was to obtain gene expression profiles of alpha 6+/MHCI+, transient amplifying cells and alpha 6+/MHCI-, putative stem cells, and to compare them with existing data bases of gene expression profiles of hair follicle stem cells. The expression of Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC) class I, previously shown to be absent in stem cells in several tissues, and alpha 6 integrin were used to isolate MHCI positive basal cells, and MHCI low/negative basal cells.

Results

Transcriptional profiles of the two cell populations were determined and comparisons made with published data for hair follicle stem cell gene expression profiles. We demonstrate that presumptive interfollicular stem cells, alpha 6+/MHCI- cells, are enriched in messenger RNAs encoding surface receptors, cell adhesion molecules, extracellular matrix proteins, transcripts encoding members of IFN-alpha family proteins and components of IFN signaling, but contain lower levels of transcripts encoding proteins which take part in energy metabolism, cell cycle, ribosome biosynthesis, splicing, protein translation, degradation, DNA replication, repair, and chromosome remodeling. Furthermore, our data indicate that the cell signaling pathways Notch1 and NF-κB are downregulated/inhibited in MHC negative basal cells.

Conclusion

This study demonstrates that alpha 6+/MHCI- cells have additional characteristics attributed to stem cells. Moreover, the transcription profile of alpha 6+/MHCI- cells shows similarities to transcription profiles of mouse hair follicle bulge cells known to be enriched for stem cells. Collectively, our data suggests that alpha 6+/MHCI- cells may be enriched for stem cells. This study is the first comprehensive gene expression profile of putative human epithelial stem cells and their progeny that were isolated directly from neonatal foreskin tissue. Our study is important for understanding self renewal and differentiation of epidermal stem cells, and for elucidating signaling pathways involved in those processes. The generated data base may serve those working with other human epithelial tissue progenitors.
Whole genome transcription profiling of Anaplasma phagocytophilum in human and tick host cells by tiling array analysis
Authors: Nelson Curtis M , Herron Michael J , Felsheim Roderick F , Schloeder Brian R , Grindle Suzanne M , Chavez Adela Oliva , Kurtti Timothy J , Munderloh Ulrike G
Published: July 2008

Background

Anaplasma phagocytophilum (Ap) is an obligate intracellular bacterium and the agent of human granulocytic anaplasmosis, an emerging tick-borne disease. Ap alternately infects ticks and mammals and a variety of cell types within each. Understanding the biology behind such versatile cellular parasitism may be derived through the use of tiling microarrays to establish high resolution, genome-wide transcription profiles of the organism as it infects cell lines representative of its life cycle (tick; ISE6) and pathogenesis (human; HL-60 and HMEC-1).

Results

Detailed, host cell specific transcriptional behavior was revealed. There was extensive differential Ap gene transcription between the tick (ISE6) and the human (HL-60 and HMEC-1) cell lines, with far fewer differentially transcribed genes between the human cell lines, and all disproportionately represented by membrane or surface proteins. There were Ap genes exclusively transcribed in each cell line, apparent human- and tick-specific operons and paralogs, and anti-sense transcripts that suggest novel expression regulation processes. Seven virB2 paralogs (of the bacterial type IV secretion system) showed human or tick cell dependent transcription. Previously unrecognized genes and coding sequences were identified, as were the expressed p44/msp2 (major surface proteins) paralogs (of 114 total), through elevated signal produced to the unique hypervariable region of each – 2/114 in HL-60, 3/114 in HMEC-1, and none in ISE6.

Conclusion

Using these methods, whole genome transcription profiles can likely be generated for Ap, as well as other obligate intracellular organisms, in any host cells and for all stages of the cell infection process. Visual representation of comprehensive transcription data alongside an annotated map of the genome renders complex transcription into discernable patterns.
Transcriptome analysis of a respiratory Saccharomyces cerevisiae strain suggests the expression of its phenotype is glucose insensitive and predominantly controlled by Hap4, Cat8 and Mig1
Authors: Bonander Nicklas , Ferndahl Cecilia , Mostad Petter , Wilks Martin DB , Chang Celia , Showe Louise , Gustafsson Lena , Larsson Christer , Bill Roslyn M
Published: July 2008

Background

We previously described the first respiratory Saccharomyces cerevisiae strain, KOY.TM6*P, by integrating the gene encoding a chimeric hexose transporter, Tm6*, into the genome of an hxt null yeast. Subsequently we transferred this respiratory phenotype in the presence of up to 50 g/L glucose to a yeast strain, V5 hxt1-7 Δ, in which only HXT1-7 had been deleted. In this study, we compared the transcriptome of the resultant strain, V5.TM6*P, with that of its wild-type parent, V5, at different glucose concentrations.

Results

cDNA array analyses revealed that alterations in gene expression that occur when transitioning from a respiro-fermentative (V5) to a respiratory (V5.TM6*P) strain, are very similar to those in cells undergoing a diauxic shift. We also undertook an analysis of transcription factor binding sites in our dataset by examining previously-published biological data for Hap4 (in complex with Hap2, 3, 5), Cat8 and Mig1, and used this in combination with verified binding consensus sequences to identify genes likely to be regulated by one or more of these. Of the induced genes in our dataset, 77% had binding sites for the Hap complex, with 72% having at least two. In addition, 13% were found to have a binding site for Cat8 and 21% had a binding site for Mig1. Unexpectedly, both the up- and down-regulation of many of the genes in our dataset had a clear glucose dependence in the parent V5 strain that was not present in V5.TM6*P. This indicates that the relief of glucose repression is already operable at much higher glucose concentrations than is widely accepted and suggests that glucose sensing might occur inside the cell.

Conclusion

Our dataset gives a remarkably complete view of the involvement of genes in the TCA cycle, glyoxylate cycle and respiratory chain in the expression of the phenotype of V5.TM6*P. Furthermore, 88% of the transcriptional response of the induced genes in our dataset can be related to the potential activities of just three proteins: Hap4, Cat8 and Mig1. Overall, our data support genetic remodelling in V5.TM6*P consistent with a respiratory metabolism which is insensitive to external glucose concentrations.
Genetic variation in the invasive avian parasite, Philornis downsi (Diptera, Muscidae) on the Galápagos archipelago
Authors: Dudaniec Rachael Y , Gardner Michael G , Donnellan Steve , Kleindorfer Sonia
Published: July 2008

Background

Understanding the dispersal and genetic structure of invasive insects across islands is important for designing management plans that are appropriate at spatial and temporal scales. For invasive parasites, population dynamics are largely determined by the distribution and density of their host species. The introduced parasitic fly, Philornis downsi, parasitises nestlings of endemic birds on all major islands of the Galápagos archipelago. The fly's high mortality and fitness impacts are of conservation concern for vulnerable and declining species of Darwin's finches. Using microsatellite data in Bayesian clustering and landscape genetic analyses, we examine gene flow and dispersal in P. downsi between three islands and across habitats (highlands, lowlands) and examine for the presence of population bottlenecks. We also examine variation at the mitochondrial gene CO1 across islands to establish if cryptic species were present.

Results

Both the mitochondrial and microsatellite data were consistent with there being a single species across islands. We found low genetic differentiation between islands and strong evidence for inter-island gene flow, or shared recent ancestry among individuals. Landscape genetic analysis identified two genetic clusters: one encompassing Santa Cruz and Isabela, and one on Floreana Island. There was no evidence of genetic differentiation between habitats and molecular variance was mainly attributable to within individuals. The combined P. downsi population was found to have undergone a population bottleneck.

Conclusion

Philornis downsi populations have high connectivity within and between islands, with low levels of genetic differentiation between Floreana and the other two islands examined. The genetic bottleneck found across islands suggests there was a small founding population or few introduction events of P. downsi. The high dispersal capacity and wide habitat use of P. downsi highlights the significant threat that this parasite poses to the Galápagos avifauna. Our findings are relevant for assessing the viability of methods to control P. downsi on Galápagos, such as the sterile insect technique.
Family physician and endocrinologist coordination as the basis for diabetes care in clinical practice
Authors: Duran Alejandra , Runkle Isabelle , Matía Pilar , de Miguel Maria P , Garrido Sofia , Cervera Emilio , Fernandez Maria D , Torres Pilar , Lillo Tomas , Martin Patricia , Cabrerizo Lucio , de la Torre Nuria Garcia , Calle Jose R , Ibarra Jose , Charro Aniceto L , Calle-Pascual Alfonso L
Published: July 2008

Background

To estimate the proportion of diabetic patients (DPts) with peripheral vascular disease treated at a primary health care site after an endocrinologist-based intervention, who meet ATP III and Steno targets of metabolic control, as well as to compare the outcome with the results of the patients treated by endocrinologists.

Methods

A controlled, prospective over 30-months period study was conducted in area 7 of Madrid. One hundred twenty six eligible diabetic patients diagnosed as having peripheral vascular disease between January 2003 and June 2004 were included in the study. After a treatment period of three months by the Diabetes team at St Carlos Hospital, 63 patients were randomly assigned to continue their follow up by diabetes team (Group A) and other 63 to be treated by the family physicians (FP) at primary care level with continuous diabetes team coordination (Group B). 57 DPts from Group A and 59 from Group B, completed the 30 months follow-up period. At baseline both groups were similar in age, weight, time from diagnosis and metabolic control. The main outcomes of this study were the proportion of patients meeting ATP III and Steno goals for HbA1c (%), Cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, triglycerides, blood pressure, albumine-to-creatinine excretion ratio (ACR), body mass index (BMI), waist circumference (WC), anti-aggregation treatment and smoking status.

Results

At the end of the follow up, no differences were found between the groups. More than 37% of diabetic patients assigned to be treated by FP achieved a HbA1c < 6.5%, more than 50% a ACR < 30 mg/g, and more than 80% reached low risk values for cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, triglycerides, diastolic blood pressure and were anti-aggregated, and 12% remained smokers. In contrast, less than 45% achieved a systolic blood pressure < 130 mm Hg, less than 12% had a BMI < 25 Kg.m-2 (versus 23% in group A; p < 0.05) and 49%/30% (men/women) had a waist circumference of low risk.

Conclusion

Improvements in metabolic control among diabetic patients with peripheral vascular disease treated at a primary health care setting is possible, reaching similar results to the patients treated at a specialized level. Despite such an improvement, body weight control remains more than poor in both levels, mainly at primary care level. General practitioner and endocrinologist coordination care may be important to enhance diabetes management in primary care settings.

Trial registration

Clinical Trial number ISRCTN75037597
Polymorphisms in IL12A and cockroach allergy in children with asthma
Authors: Pistiner Michael , Hunninghake Gary M , Soto-Quiros Manuel E , Avila Lydiana , Murphy Amy , Lasky-Su Jessica , Schuemann Brooke , Klanderman Barbara J , Raby Benjamin A , Celedón Juan C
Published: July 2008

Background

IL12A has been implicated in T-cell development and may thus influence the development of atopy and allergic diseases.

Methods

We tested for association between four linkage disequilibrium (LD)-tagging SNPs (rs2243123, rs2243151, rs668998, and rs17826053) inIL12Aand asthma and allergy-related (serum total and allergen-specific IgE, and skin test reactivity [STR] to two common allergens) phenotypes in two samples: 417 Costa Rican children with asthma and their parents, and 470 families of 503 white children in the Childhood Asthma Management Program (CAMP). The analysis was conducted using the family-based association test (FBAT) statistic implemented in the PBAT program.

Results

Among Costa Rican children with asthma, homozygosity for the minor allele of each of two SNPs inIL12A(rs2243123 and rs2243151) was associated with increased risks of STR to American cockroach (P ≤ 0.03 for both SNPs), STR to German cockroach (P ≤ 0.01 for both SNPs), and having a positive IgE to German cockroach (P < 0.05 for both SNPs). Among children in CAMP, homozygosity for the minor allele of SNP rs2243151 inIL12Awas inversely associated with STR to German cockroach (P = 0.03) and homozygosity for the minor allele of SNP rs17826053 inIL12Awas associated with increased risks of STR to American cockroach (P = 0.01) and STR to German cockroach (P = 0.007). There was no significant association between any SNP inIL12Aand asthma, STR to dust mite, or total IgE in Costa Rica or CAMP.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that variants inIL12Ainfluence cockroach allergy among children with asthma.