bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Central Kink Region of Fowlicidin-2, an α-Helical Host Defense Peptide, Is Critically Involved in Bacterial Killing and Endotoxin Neutralization
Authors: Xiao Yanjing , Herrera Alvaro I. , Bommineni Yugendar R. , Soulages Jose L. , Prakash Om , Zhang Guolong
Published: December 2008

Fowlicidins are a group of newly identified chicken cathelicidin host defense peptides. We have shown that the putatively mature fowlicidin-2 of 31 amino acid residues possesses potent antibacterial and lipopolysaccharide (LPS)- neutralizing activities, but with a noticeable toxicity to mammalian cells. As a first step in exploring the structure-activity relationships of fowlicidin-2, in this study we determined its tertiary structure by nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. Unlike the majority of cathelicidins, which are composed of a predominant α-helix with a short hinge sequence near the center, fowlicidin-2 consists of 2 well-defined α-helical segments (residues 6–12 and 23–27) connected by a long extensive kink (residues 13–20) induced by proline. To further investigate the functional significance of each of these structural components, several N- and C-terminal deletion analogs of fowlicidin-2 were synthesized and analyzed for their antibacterial, cytotoxic and LPS-neutralizing activities. Our results indicated that neither the N- nor C-terminal α-helix alone is sufficient to confer any function. Rather, fowlicidin-2(1–18) and fowlicidin-2(15–31), 2 α-helical segments with inclusion of the central cationic kink region, retained substantial capacities to kill bacteria and neutralize the LPS-induced proinflammatory response, relative to the parent peptide. More desirably, these 2 peptide analogs showed substantially reduced toxicity to human erythrocytes and epithelial cells, indicative of improved potential as antibacterial and antisepsis agents. To our knowledge, fowlicidin-2 is the first α-helical cathelicidin, with the central kink region shown to be critically important in killing bacteria and neutralizing LPS.
Effects of Intranasal Corticosteroids in the Treatment of Experimental Acute Bacterial Maxillary Sinusitis in Rabbits
Authors: Cheng You , Wei Hongqi , Li Zeqing , Xue Fei , Jiang Manjie , Chen Wei , Wang Qiuping
Published: December 2008

Objective: To investigate the possible effects of intranasal corticosteroids on the focal bacterial colonization and mucosal histomorphological changes in experimental acute bacterial maxillary sinusitis in rabbits. Methods: Acute bacterial maxillary sinusitis was induced in 48 rabbits. They were divided into 4 groups: antibiotic group (group A), antibiotic and corticosteroid combination group (group B), corticosteroid group (group C), and control group (group D). Six rabbits in each group were sacrificed to obtain secretions from the maxillary sinuses for bacterial culture after they had been treated for 2 or 4 weeks. Maxillary sinuses were removed for whole-mount histological analysis. Results: The differences between bacterial culture ratios in groups A and B compared with groups C and D were significant after treatment for 4 weeks (p < 0.05), but there was no significant difference between groups A and B (p > 0.05). Semi-quantitative analyses showed that epithelial ulceration and ciliary loss in groups A and B were less pronounced than that in groups C and D (p < 0.05). Infiltration by inflammatory cells diminished more significantly in group B than in groups C and D (p < 0.05). A significant difference in inflammatory cell infiltration between groups A and B was found at the fourth week (p < 0.05). Ultrastructural changes showed a similar trend in both group A and group B. Conclusions: Intranasal corticosteroids may lessen infiltration by inflammatory cells, and their combined application does not decrease the effects of antibiotic therapy in our study. In the treatment of acute bacterial maxillary sinusitis, intranasal corticosteroids cannot be a substitute for antibiotic treatment as a single therapy, but intranasal corticosteroids administered with antibiotics provide better efficacy.
Plasma Adiponectin: A Predictor of Coronary Heart Disease in Hemodialysis Patients – A Japanese Prospective Eight-Year Study
Authors: Takemoto Fumi , Katori Hideyuki , Sawa Naoki , Hoshino Junichi , Suwabe Tatsuya , Nakanishi Shohei , Arai Shigeyuki , Fukuda Seiichi , Kodaka Kenzo , Shimada Masaru , Yamazaki Chihiro , Yokoyama Keitaro , Nakano Yasuko , Funahashi Tohru , Ubara Yoshifumi , Yamada Akira , Takaichi Kenmei , Uchida Shunya
Published: December 2008

Background/Aim: Plasma adiponectin may play a protective role in the pathogenesis of cardiovascular disease in hemodialysis (HD) patients. We examined the effect of plasma adiponectin levels on the prognosis of the HD patients. Methods: 68 HD patients (male:female = 38:30) were subjected to plasma adiponectin measurement in 1998 and followed up over 8 years. Results: Plasma adiponectin concentrations differed between male and female patients (9.3 vs. 15.7 μg/ml). The plasma adiponectin concentration as a whole was positively correlated with serum high-density lipoprotein cholesterol and negatively with serum creatinine and waist circumference. During an 8-year follow-up, the cardiac events occurred in 7 of 38 men and in 10 of 30 women. Cox’s proportional hazard model analysis in a stepwise manner revealed that coronary heart disease (CHD) was associated with intact parathyroid hormone concentration, age, and the presence of diabetes in men whereas plasma adiponectin concentration was the most powerful single predictor in women. The impact of the plasma adiponectin concentration was strengthened by Kaplan-Meier survival analysis. In the group with a lower plasma adiponectin concentration, CHD events were significantly increased in men (p = 0.043) and in women (p = 0.007). Conclusion: Plasma adiponectin concentration may predict CHD outcomes in HD patients.
Neurological and Psychiatric Practitioners’ Views on Alzheimer’s Disease and Treatment Thereof
Authors: Riepe M.W. , Ibach B.
Published: December 2008

Background: General views of practitioners shape medical routine. This study surveyed general views of neurological and psychiatric practitioners in Germany on Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Methods: 850 surveys were distributed and 637 (75%) recovered. Results: 36% of practitioners reported not having used therapies for medical conditions other than dementia in patients with AD for reasons of limited compliance in these patients. Efficacy of antidementia drugs (donepezil, galantamine, memantine, rivastigmine) was rated on a 5-point scale (very good, good, satisfactory, sufficient, insufficient) regarding memory, attention and concentration, aggression, depression, activities of daily living, and dependency on caregivers. 87% of practitioners reported an at least satisfactory effect on at least 2 domains. Practitioners estimated that about 20% of caregivers are treated for psychiatric disorders such as depression. Practitioners that were more aware of caregivers’ needs for psychiatric treatment more frequently reported positive feedback of caregivers concerning improvement of the patients in everyday life. Nursing home admission was estimated to result from both progression of dementia and diminished forces of the caregivers. Conclusions: Neurological and psychiatric practitioners perceive antidementia drugs as effective in multiple domains in AD. Appreciation of the overall success of treatment requires consideration of the patient-caregiver dyad.
The Nail as a Musculoskeletal Appendage – Implications for an Improved Understanding of the Link between Psoriasis and Arthritis
Authors: McGonagle Dennis , Tan Ai Lyn , Benjamin Michael
Published: December 2008

The nail is considered to be a specialised modification of the skin – an ‘epidermal appendage’. However, the phrase ‘hanging on by your fingernails’ belies a vital aspect of nail microanatomy that has been overlooked, namely that the nail is functionally integrated with the musculoskeletal system. The current article reviews how the nail is functionally linked to the distal phalanx and several distal interphalangeal joint structures, including extensor tendon fibres and the collateral ligaments. New histological images exploring this link are provided. The extensor tendon in particular continues from its bony insertion to envelop the nail root, and the collateral ligaments form an integrated network on the sides of the joint, helping to anchor the nail margins. This virtual continuum of connective tissue structures merges with a thick periosteum on the distal phalanx and with the numerous cutaneous ligaments that anchor the fatty pads of the finger pulp to the skin.
Dermatoscopic Findings of Cutaneous Mastocytosis
Authors: Akay Bengü Nisa , Kittler Harald , Sanlı Hatice , Harmankaya Kaan , Anadolu Rana
Published: December 2008

Background: Mastocytosis is a disorder characterized by the accumulation of mast cells in various organs, most commonly in the skin. Cutaneous mastocytosis (CM) can be classified as nodular CM with solitary or multiple lesions, diffuse CM (erythroderma), and maculopapular CM including the papular/plaque variant, urticaria pigmentosa (UP) and telangiectasia macularis eruptiva perstans (TMEP). Objective: To evaluate the dermatoscopic features of cutaneous mastocytosis. Methods: We reviewed the dermatoscopic images of 6 patients who had different variants of cutaneous mastocytosis and who attended the Departments of Dermatology at the Medical University of Ankara, Turkey, and the Medical University of Vienna, Austria. Results: In UP and in the papular variant of CM the most common structures seen by dermatoscopy were brown reticular lines (pigment network). In TMEP we observed telangiectatic vessels arranged in a reticular pattern. Conclusion: Skin lesions of mastocytosis may exhibit a pigment network, a dermatoscopic feature said to be characteristic of melanocytic lesions. We were also able to identify a new dermatoscopic feature, a reticular vascular pattern that is characteristic of a clinical variant of mastocytosis known as TMEP. This feature may help to differentiate TMEP from other variants of mastocytosis and from other exanthematous skin diseases.
Management of Congenital Nevi at a Dermatologic Surgical Paediatric Outpatient Clinic: Consequences of an Audit Survey 1990–1997
Authors: Mérigou Delphine , Prey Sorilla , Niamba Pascal , Loot Maya , Lepreux Sébastien , Boralevi Franck , Labrèze Christine , Vergnes Pierre , Taïeb Alain
Published: December 2008

Background: Since 1987 we have run a Dermatologic Surgical Paediatric Outpatient Clinic (DSPOC) within the Children’s Hospital in Bordeaux. Objective: We analyse the consequences of an audit survey concerning the management of patients with congenital nevi (CN) seen at this clinic. Methods: We reviewed the cases of 192 children examined and photographed at the DSPOC during the period January 1990–December 1997. Patients were contacted for a reassessment of their status. The management options chosen at the DSPOC were reviewed as well as the satisfaction of the patients or parents of young children. Results: Of 192 children prerecruited, 56 girls and 52 boys could be included in the survey. They were mostly European whites and 67% were <6 months of age at the first DSPOC visit. 65/108 (61%) had been operated following the first DSPOC visit. The mean follow-up based on the 1997–1998 survey was 33 months (8 months to 10 years). The size of the nevus, independently of location, influenced decision for early surgery. Another important factor was the estimated disfigurement risk (15% of decisions) mostly related to CN of the face. There was a significant risk of pigmentary recurrence around the scar in children operated before the age of 2, but long-term follow-up indicated a spontaneously regressive course. Conclusions: Nevus recurrence in cases operated early suggests a time-dependent phenomenon in nevogenesis. Early counselling is important. Early surgery seems associated with a better scar quality. Explanations concerning risks and outcome are best given with the cooperation of a surgeon and a dermatologist.
Core2 1-6-N-Glucosaminyltransferase-I Is Crucial for the Formation of Atherosclerotic Lesions in Apolipoprotein E–Deficient Mice
Authors: Wang Huan , Tang Rong , Zhang Weiyu , Amirikian Karine , Geng Zhen , Geng Jianguo , Hebbel Robert P. , Xia Lijun , Marth Jamey D. , Fukuda Minoru , Katoh Shigeki , Huo Yuqing
Published: December 2008

Objective—

Core2 1-6-N-glucosaminyltransferase-I (C2GlcNAcT-I) modification of adhesion molecules is required for optimal binding to target ligands. The objective of this study was to determine the role of C2GlcNAcT-I in the recruitment of Ly-6C
hi
monocytes to atherosclerotic lesions and in lesion formation in mice.

Methods and Results—

In a whole-blood binding assay, Ly-6C
hi
monocytes and certain lymphocytes and natural killer cells from wild-type mice bound to P- and E-selectin. C2GlcNAcT-I deficiency abrogated leukocyte binding to P- and E-selectin in this assay as well as in an in vitro flow chamber assay. Moreover, C2GlcNAcT-I deficiency decreased Ly-6C
hi
monocyte interactions with atherosclerotic arteries under physiological flow conditions and also inhibited monocyte recruitment to the peritoneal cavity in mice challenged with thioglycollate. In apolipoprotein E–deficient (apoE
−/−
) mice, lack of C2GlcNAcT-I resulted in fewer and smaller atherosclerotic lesions in mouse aortas. Atherosclerosis was also suppressed in C2GlcNAcT-I
−/−
/apoE
−/−
chimeric mice transplanted with C2GlcNAcT-I
+/+
bone marrow cells.

Conclusions—

C2GlcNAcT-I in both leukocytes and blood vessel wall cells contributes to leukocyte recruitment to the arterial wall. C2GlcNAcT-I deficiency leads to the formation of small, macrophage-poor, and collagen-rich atherosclerotic lesions.
Nox4 Acts as a Switch Between Differentiation and Proliferation in Preadipocytes
Authors: Schröder Katrin , Wandzioch Katalin , Helmcke Ina , Brandes Ralf P.
Published: December 2008

Objective—

Insulin promotes differentiation of preadipocytes into adipocytes. Insulin also stimulates reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, and the NADPH oxidases Nox1 and Nox4 are important sources of ROS. We determined in human and mouse preadipocytes whether Nox proteins contribute to ROS formation and differentiation in response to insulin.

Methods and Results—

The expression of Nox1 and Nox4 was increased during insulin-induced differentiation, and insulin increased ROS production. SiRNA against Nox4 but not Nox1 inhibited insulin-induced differentiation and ROS production but promoted proliferation. Nox4 overexpression yielded the opposite effect. As observed by siRNA and overexpression, Nox4 controlled the expression of MAP kinase phosphatase-1 (MKP-1), which reduces insulin-induced ERK1/2 activation. Consequently, downregulation of Nox4 promoted ERK1/2 signaling: Proliferation was increased and through phosphorylation of the inhibitory site serine612, ERK1/2 inhibited the activation of the insulin-receptor substrate-1 (IRS-1) and thereby prevented differentiation in response to insulin. Inhibition of ERK1/2 or overexpression of MPK-1 promoted insulin-induced differentiation. Accordingly, insulin-induced proliferation was enhanced by siRNA against MKP-1, whereas inhibition of ERK1/2 or overexpression of MKP-1 attenuated proliferation.

Conclusions—

Nox4 acts as a switch from insulin-induced proliferation to differentiation by controlling MKP-1 expression, which limits ERK1/2 signaling.
Prevention of Skin Flap Necrosis by Estradiol Involves Reperfusion of a Protected Vascular Network
Authors: Toutain Céline E. , Brouchet Laurent , Raymond-Letron Isabelle , Vicendo Patricia , Bergès Hortense , Favre Julie , Fouque Marie-José , Krust Andrée , Schmitt Anne-Marie , Chambon Pierre , Gourdy Pierre , Arnal Jean-François , Lenfant Françoise
Published: December 2008

Although 17β-estradiol (E2) is protective in experimental models of myocardial and brain ischemia, its effect on skin ischemia remains unknown. Here, we assessed the protective effect of E2 in a mouse model of skin ischemia, mimicking the surgery of skin flaps. Whereas necrosis appeared in the half portion of the skin flap within 1 week after surgery in ovariectomized mice, it was reduced up to 10-fold when mice were pretreated with E2, at least 3 days before the surgery. The beneficial effect of E2 appeared to be attributable to an increase in skin survival, revealed by measuring viability of ex vivo explants and enhancement of the antiapoptotic Bcl-2 protein expression in vivo. This protective effect on the skin contributed to the protection of the vascular network and facilitated reperfusion, which was found to be accelerated in ovariectomized E2-treated mice, whereas hemorrhages were observed in untreated mice. E2 also increased expression of fibroblast growth factor-2 isoforms in the skin and circulating vascular endothelial growth factor in the serum. Finally, this protective effect of E2 was abolished in estrogen receptor–deficient mice (ERα
−/−
) but maintained in chimeric mice reconstituted with ERα-deficient bone marrow, indicating dispensable action of E2 in bone marrow–derived cells. This protective effect of E2 was mimicked by treatment with tamoxifen, a selective estrogen receptor modulator. In conclusion, we have demonstrated for the first time that E2 exerts a major preventive effect of skin flap necrosis through a prevention of ischemic-induced skin lesions, including those of the vascular network, which contributes to accelerate the reperfusion of the skin flap.
A Caudal Proliferating Growth Center Contributes to Both Poles of the Forming Heart Tube
Authors: van den Berg Gert , Abu-Issa Radwan , de Boer Bouke A. , Hutson Mary R. , de Boer Piet A.J. , Soufan Alexandre T. , Ruijter Jan M. , Kirby Margaret L. , van den Hoff Maurice J.B. , Moorman Antoon F.M.
Published: December 2008

Recent studies have shown that the primary heart tube continues to grow by addition of cells from the coelomic wall. This growth occurs concomitantly with embryonic folding and formation of the coelomic cavity, making early heart formation morphologically complex. A scarcity of data on localized growth parameters further hampers the understanding of cardiac growth. Therefore, we investigated local proliferation during early heart formation. Firstly, we determined the cell cycle length of primary myocardium of the early heart tube to be 5.5 days, showing that this myocardium is nonproliferating and implying that initial heart formation occurs solely by addition of cells. In line with this, we show that the heart tube rapidly lengthens at its inflow by differentiation of recently divided precursor cells. To track the origin of these cells, we made quantitative 3D reconstructions of proliferation in the forming heart tube and the mesoderm of its flanking coelomic walls. These reconstructions show a single, albeit bilateral, center of rapid proliferation in the caudomedial pericardial back wall. This center expresses
Islet1
. Cell tracing showed that cells from this caudal growth center, besides feeding into the venous pole of the heart, also move cranially via the dorsal pericardial mesoderm and differentiate into myocardium at the arterial pole. Inhibition of caudal proliferation impairs the formation of both the atria and the right ventricle. These data show how a proliferating growth center in the caudal coelomic wall elongates the heart tube at both its venous and arterial pole, providing a morphological mechanism for early heart formation.
Evaluation of Forecasted Southeast Pacific Stratocumulus in the NCAR, GFDL, and ECMWF Models
Authors: Hannay Cécile , Williamson David L. , Hack James J. , Kiehl Jeffrey T. , Olson Jerry G. , Klein Stephen A. , Bretherton Christopher S. , Köhler Martin
Published: December 2008

Forecasts of southeast Pacific stratocumulus at 20°S and 85°W during the East Pacific Investigation of Climate (EPIC) cruise of October 2001 are examined with the ECMWF model, the Atmospheric Model (AM) from GFDL, the Community Atmosphere Model (CAM) from NCAR, and the CAM with a revised atmospheric boundary layer formulation from the University of Washington (CAM-UW). The forecasts are initialized from ECMWF analyses and each model is run for 3–5 days to determine the differences with the EPIC field observations.

Observations during the EPIC cruise show a well-mixed boundary layer under a sharp inversion. The inversion height and the cloud layer have a strong and regular diurnal cycle. A key problem common to the models is that the planetary boundary layer (PBL) depth is too shallow when compared to EPIC observations. However, it is suggested that improved PBL depths are achieved with more physically realistic PBL schemes: at one end, CAM uses a dry and surface-driven PBL scheme and produces a very shallow PBL, while the ECWMF model uses an eddy-diffusivity/mass-flux approach and produces a deeper and better-mixed PBL. All the models produce a strong diurnal cycle in the liquid water path (LWP), but there are large differences in the amplitude and phase when compared to the EPIC observations. This, in turn, affects the radiative fluxes at the surface and the surface energy budget. This is particularly relevant for coupled simulations as this can lead to a large SST bias.
Modeling of Polar Ocean Tides at the Last Glacial Maximum: Amplification, Sensitivity, and Climatological Implications
Authors: Griffiths Stephen D. , Peltier W. Richard
Published: December 2008

Diurnal and semidiurnal ocean tides are calculated for both the present day and the Last Glacial Maximum. A numerical model with complete global coverage and enhanced resolution at high latitudes is used including the physics of self-attraction and loading and internal tide drag. Modeled present-day tidal amplitudes are overestimated at the standard resolution, but the error decreases as the resolution increases. It is argued that such results, which can be improved in the future using higher-resolution simulations, are preferable to those obtained by artificial enhancement of dissipative processes. For simulations at the Last Glacial Maximum a new version of the ICE-5G topographic reconstruction is used along with density stratification determined from coupled atmosphere–ocean climate simulations. The model predicts a significant amplification of tides around the Arctic and Antarctic coastlines, and these changes are interpreted in terms of Kelvin wave dynamics with the aid of an exact analytical solution for propagation around a polar continent or basin. These polar tides are shown to be highly sensitive to the assumed location of the grounding lines of coastal ice sheets, and the way in which this may contribute to an interaction between tides and climate change is discussed. Globally, the picture is one of energized semidiurnal tides at the Last Glacial Maximum, with an increase in tidal dissipation from present-day values, the dominant energy sink being the conversion to internal waves.
Quantifying the Imprint of a Severe Hector Thunderstorm during ACTIVE/SCOUT-O3 onto the Water Content in the Upper Troposphere/Lower Stratosphere
Authors: Chemel Charles , Russo Maria R. , Pyle John A. , Sokhi Ranjeet S. , Schiller Cornelius
Published: December 2008

The development of a severe Hector thunderstorm that formed over the Tiwi Islands, north of Australia, during the Aerosol and Chemical Transport in Tropical Convection/Stratospheric-Climate Links with Emphasis on the Upper Troposphere and Lower Stratosphere (ACTIVE/SCOUT-O3) field campaign in late 2005, is simulated by the Advanced Research Weather Research and Forecasting (ARW) model and the Met Office Unified Model (UM). The general aim of this paper is to investigate the role of isolated deep convection over the tropics in regulating the water content in the upper troposphere/lower stratosphere (UT/LS). Using a horizontal resolution as fine as 1 km, the numerical simulations reproduce the timing, structure, and strength of Hector fairly well when compared with field campaign observations. The sensitivity of results from ARW to horizontal resolution is investigated by running the model in a large-eddy simulation mode with a horizontal resolution of 250 m. While refining the horizontal resolution to 250 m leads to a better representation of convection with respect to rainfall, the characteristics of the Hector thunderstorm are basically similar in space and time to those obtained in the 1-km-horizontal-resolution simulations. Several overshooting updrafts penetrating the tropopause are produced in the simulations during the mature stage of Hector. The penetration of rising towering cumulus clouds into the LS maintains the entrainment of air at the interface between the UT and the LS. Vertical exchanges resulting from this entrainment process have a significant impact on the redistribution of atmospheric constituents within the UT/LS region at the scale of the islands. In particular, a large amount of water is injected in the LS. The fate of the ice particles as Hector develops drives the water vapor mixing ratio to saturation by sublimation of the injected ice particles, moistening the air in the LS. The moistening was found to be fairly significant above 380 K and averaged about 0.06 ppmv in the range 380–420 K for ARW. As for UM, the moistening was found to be much larger (about 2.24 ppmv in the range of 380–420 K) than for ARW. This result confirms that convective transport can play an important role in regulating the water vapor mixing ratio in the LS.
Dimensions of Oppression in the Lives of Impoverished Black Women Who Use Drugs
Authors: Cambraia Windsor Liliane , Benoit Ellen , Dunlap Eloise
Published: December 2008

Oppression against Black women continues to be a significant problem in the United States. The purpose of this study is to use grounded theory to identify multiple dimensions of oppression experienced by impoverished Black women who use drugs by examining several settings in which participants experience oppression. Three case studies of drug using, impoverished Black women were randomly selected from two large scale consecutive ethnographic studies conducted in New York City from 1998 to 2005. Analysis revealed five dimensions of oppression occurring within eight distinct settings. While dimensions constitute different manifestations of oppression, settings represented areas within participants' lives or institutions with which participants interact. Dimensions of oppression included classism, sexism, familism, racism, and drugism. Settings included the school system, correction system, welfare system, housing and neighborhood, relationship with men, family, experiences with drug use, and employment. Findings have important implications for social justice, welfare, drug, and justice system policy.
Two Types of Rental System? An Exploratory Empirical Test of Kemeny's Rental System Typology
Authors: Hoekstra Joris
Published: December 2008

The organisation of the rental market varies from country to country. Kemeny draws a distinction between societies with an integrated rental system (relatively minor differences between the non-profit and the profit rental sectors) and societies with a dualist rental system (relatively major differences between the non-profit and the profit rental sectors). In this exploratory paper, Kemeny's typology is tested against data from the European Community Household Panel (ECHP). The tentative conclusion is that integrated rental systems and dualist rental systems do indeed exist, but there are signs of increasing convergence between the two.
Housing Policy Retrenchment: Australia and Canada Compared
Authors: Dalton Tony
Published: December 2008

Housing policy has declined in importance relative to other areas of state policy-making in many Western countries. This paper seeks to understand why this has happened at a time when there has been a decline in the level of housing affordability and supply of affordable rental housing. It presents an argument that a way of understanding this policy retrenchment, through a comparative analysis of Australian and Canadian housing systems, is to consider the way in which housing policy problems are defined, how policy-making capacity is institutionalised in state agencies and the form and extent of civil society mobilisation on housing issues. It is not sufficient to ascribe the declining salience of housing policy to the ascendancy of neo-liberal ideas in policy-making.
Forecasting Housing Prices under Different Market Segmentation Assumptions
Authors: Zhuo Chen  , Cho Seong-Hoon , Poudyal Neelam , Roberts Roland K.
Published: December 2008

Three types of market segmentation strategies are available to estimate hedonic housing price models—i.e. no segmentation, segmentation by using statistical clustering methods and segmentation by using a priori information. This research tests the hypothesis of Tiebout theory that individual residential decision-making is determined by equilibrium provision of local public goods in accord with the tastes and preferences of residents, thereby sorting their housing locations into optimal sub-markets. Forecasting accuracies of eight sub-market segmentation strategies and two forecast-combining methods are examined by using housing sales data from Knox County, Tennessee, USA. The results provide empirical support for Tiebout theory of optimal housing sub-market location in that boundaries drawn using a priori information from local government jurisdictions, school districts and expert opinions are more closely aligned with the equilibrium provision of local public goods than boundaries drawn by statistical clustering methods. The advantage of forecast-combining is also demonstrated.
Predictive Factors of Subtle Residual Shoulder Symptoms after Transtendinous Arthroscopic Cuff Repair
Authors: Castagna Alessandro , Delle Rose Giacomo , Conti Marco , Snyder Stephen J. , Borroni Mario , Garofalo Raffaele
Published: December 2008

Background

Transtendinous repair is a well-known technique for the arthroscopic management of partial rotator cuff tear. However, there are not a lot of clinical follow-up studies in the literature reporting data on this approach, and, moreover, potential factors responsible to influence the outcomes have not been investigated.

Purpose

To evaluate clinical outcomes after arthroscopic transtendinous repair and to identify predictive factors of residual shoulder symptoms.

Study Design

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods

Fifty-four patients with a mean age of 56.7 ± 8.8 years (range, 31-71 years) who had undergone an arthroscopic transtendon repair for a painful articular-sided rotator cuff tear with a minimum of 2 years of follow-up were contacted. Clinical outcomes using a patient-based questionnaire, the Constant score, University of California at Los Angeles score, Simple Shoulder Test, and visual analog scale were evaluated. The influence of patient age, presence or absence of a trauma responsible for the cuff tear, presence of associated shoulder lesions, millimeters of exposed footprint, and millimeters of torn tendon retraction on the outcomes were assessed.

Results

The mean cuff tear exposure footprint was 5.2 mm, and the mean retraction of the torn part of the tendon was 8 mm. Only one patient reported dissatisfaction with surgery because of persistence of pain during overhead activities. After arthroscopic repair, University of California at Los Angeles, Constant, and Simple Shoulder Test scores were significantly improved from 14.1, 45.3, and 9.8 to 32.9, 90.6, and 0.8, respectively (P < .001). Twenty-two patients (41%) reported occasional shoulder discomfort at the extremes of range of motion (particularly at extremes of abduction and internal rotation) occurring during some daily living and sports activities. The best multivariate model showed that residual shoulder discomfort is strongly linked with a partial thickness supraspinatus tendon avulsion-type articular-sided rotator cuff lesion consisting of a large tendon retraction and/or a relatively small exposure footprint area in an older patient in the absence of a specific trauma (P < .001).

Conclusion

Arthroscopic transtendon partial articular supraspinatus tendon avulsion-type rotator cuff repair was a reliable procedure that resulted in a good outcome in terms of pain relief and shoulder scores in 98% of the 54 patients. Better results could be expected in patients with less tendon retraction, a larger footprint exposure, of younger age, and with a clinical history of trauma.
A New Peroneal Tendon Rerouting Method to Treat Recurrent Dislocation of Peroneal Tendons
Authors: Wang Chih-Chien , Wang Shyu-Jye , Lien Shiu-Bii , Lin Liou-Chyr
Published: December 2008

Background

The surgical treatment methods for recurrent dislocation of peroneal tendons are controversial. A simpler and more effective treatment method is valuable for these patients.

Hypothesis

A new rerouting operation designed by the authors will have satisfactory results and avoid disadvantages of the old rerouting methods.

Study Design

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods

Seventeen consecutive male patients with unilateral recurrent peroneal tendon dislocations were treated by transposition of the calcaneofibular ligament from the tubercle of calcaneofibular ligament with a 1 × 1 × 1 cm3 bone block and elevation of this tubercle with another 1 × 1 × 1 cm3 calcaneal bone block, which were fixed by a 3.5-mm cancellous screw with a washer. All patients received clinical and radiographic follow-up for at least 2 years. The preoperative and postoperative American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) ankle-hindfoot scales were used for functional results assessment.

Results

All bone transposition sites healed radiographically at 6 weeks after surgery. Four patients had transient numbness over the lateral aspect of the injured foot, and 3 patients had swelling and pain involving the operative sites. All complications resolved by 3 to 5 months after the operation. No recurrent dislocation of the peroneal tendons was noted. The mean AOFAS ankle-hindfoot scale improved significantly, from 73.4 ± 5.5 preoperatively to 100 at 2- to 5-year follow-up (P <. 001). Normal ankle stability and no tightening of the lateral side of the injured ankles in the inversion position were noted.

Conclusion

This method is a simple, reliable, and reproducible operation to treat recurrent dislocation of the peroneal tendons. It allows early return to daily, working, and sports activities with satisfactory results.
Effect of Bone Morphogenetic Protein-12 Gene Transfer on Posterior Cruciate Ligament Healing in a Rabbit Model
Authors: Ma Yong , Zhang Xin , Wang Jian , Liu Ping , Zhao Liheng , Zhou Chunyan , Ao Yingfang
Published: December 2008

Background

The posterior cruciate ligament heals to some extent after injury. However, results after conservative treatment may diminish with long-term follow-up. Bone morphogenetic protein-12 can induce formation of ligament tissues.

Hypothesis

Bone morphogenetic protein-12 gene transfer can improve the histologic and biomechanical properties of healing posterior cruciate ligaments.

Study Design

Controlled laboratory study.

Methods

Bilateral posterior cruciate ligaments of 32 rabbits were injured. The cut ends in 1 limb received an injection containing 3 × 107 pfu recombinant bone morphogenetic protein-12 adenovirus, and the posterior cruciate ligament in the contralateral limb served as an untreated control. Eight rabbits were sacrificed at each time point of 3, 6, 12, and 26 weeks after the operation. In addition, 6 rabbits receiving a sham operation were used to obtain normal control data. The posterior cruciate ligament specimens were evaluated biomechanically and histologically.

Results

The repair tissue of the treatment group at 26 weeks was similar to the normal posterior cruciate ligament in collagen arrangement, collagen formation, and mechanical properties. At weeks 6, 12, and 26, the ultimate load, stiffness, and energy absorbed at failure of the treatment group were significantly greater than those of the untreated group.

Conclusion

Adenovirus-mediated bone morphogenetic protein-12 gene transfer in a partial posterior cruciate ligament laceration rabbit model resulted in an obvious improvement of histologic properties, tensile strength, and stiffness of the repaired ligaments, indicating improved posterior cruciate ligament healing.

Clinical Relevance

Bone morphogenetic protein-12 gene transfer is a potential future strategy to improve the repair of injured posterior cruciate ligaments.
Minimum 10-Year Results after Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction
Authors: Shelbourne K.Donald , Gray Tinker
Published: December 2008

Background

Few long-term studies exist that evaluate how the loss of normal knee range of motion affects results after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction.

Hypothesis

Patients with normal knee motion will have higher subjective scores than patients with less than normal motion.

Study Design

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 2.

Methods

Patients were prospectively evaluated at > 10 years after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction according to International Knee Documentation Committee criteria. Normal knee motion was within 2° of extension (including hyperextension) and 5° of flexion compared with the uninvolved knee. Regression analysis was performed to determine what factors affected subjective scores.

Results

Objective follow-up was obtained on 502 patients at a mean of 14.1 years postoperatively. Regression analysis showed that the most statistically significant factor related to lower subjective scores was lack of normal knee extension; loss of normal flexion was also significant. Patients who had meniscectomy or articular cartilage damage had statistically significantly lower subjective scores if they also had less than normal motion. Ninety-eight percent of patients with intact menisci, normal articular cartilage, and normal knee motion had normal radiographs; 29% of patients with normal motion had less than normal radiographs versus 71% of patients who had less than normal motion. The overall International Knee Documentation Committee objective grade was normal in 48%, nearly normal in 42%, abnormal in 9%, and severely abnormal in 0.5%.

Conclusion

The loss of 3° to 5° of knee extension, to include loss of hyperextension, adversely affected the subjective and objective results after surgery, especially when coupled with meniscectomy and articular cartilage damage.
The Impact of Immigration on Computer Manufacturing in the 1990s
Authors: Howland Marie , Nguyen Doan Bao Luu
Published: December 2008

This article examines the impact of immigration on the location of the computer and computer peripherals manufacturing (SIC 357) and electronic equipment manufacturing (SIC 367) industries in the United States. The authors hypothesize that to stay competitive and keep production costs low, the computer and computer peripherals manufacturing and electronic equipment manufacturing businesses that remain in the United States are shifting employment to areas receiving large numbers of immigrants. Using industry and immigration data by metropolitan area, the authors examine the impact of immigration on industry employment change during the 1990 decade. Results show that cities that attracted immigrants experienced slower declines in computer employment than they would have in the absence of immigration.
Cost Plus
Authors: Thorsten Richard E. , Eskaf Shadi , Hughes Jeffrey
Published: December 2008

This article tests the importance of cost, demand, institutional, and geographic factors on the bills that consumers pay for water and sewer service in North Carolina and the pricing signals that utilities send to customers. The authors apply spatial regression models to test whether other factors besides costs drive rate-setting practices. Results indicate that cost factors, operating ratio, temperature, the application of “outside” rates, and utilities' primary importance on affordable rates affect combined water and sewer bills at average levels of residential consumption. The study also finds that bills are significantly and positively correlated to bills paid in nearby utilities. Community income and the percent of customers below the poverty line are weakly associated with combined bills. However, utilities facing higher growth rates and those that value conservation are no more likely to send stronger pricing signals than others.
HIV-Infected Patients With Anal Carcinoma Who Subsequently Developed Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma: Report of 2 Cases
Authors: Chaiyachati Krisda , Cinti Sandro K. , Kauffman Carol A. , Riddell James
Published: December 2008

We describe 2 patients who had human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection and who first developed human papillomavirus (HPV)-related anal squamous cell carcinoma and later, oral squamous cell carcinoma. At the time each patient developed oral cancer, they were responding well to antiretroviral therapy with undetectable viral loads. Careful screening for oral cancers may be indicated in HIV-infected patients with HPV-associated anal cancer.
Association Between Health Literacy and HIV Treatment Adherence: Further Evidence from Objectively Measured Medication Adherence
Authors: Kalichman Seth C. , Pope Howard , White Denise , Cherry Chauncey , Amaral Christina M. , Swetzes Connie , Flanagan Jody , Kalichman Moira O.
Published: December 2008

Background. People with lower-health literacy are vulnerable to health problems. Studies that have examined the association between literacy and medication adherence have relied on self-reported adherence, which is subject to memory errors, perhaps even more so in people with poor literacy. Purpose. To examine the association between health literacy and objectively assessed HIV treatment adherence. Methods. Men and women (N = 145) receiving antiretroviral therapy completed a test of health literacy and measures of common adherence markers. Medication adherence was monitored by unannounced pill counts. Results. Median adherence was 71%; participants with lower-health literacy also demonstrated poorer adherence compared to participants with higher literacy. Hierarchical regression showed literacy predicted adherence over and above all other factors. Sensitivity tests showed the same results for 80% and 90% adherence. Conclusions. The association between literacy and adherence appears robust and was confirmed using an objective measure of medication adherence.
T-cell receptor– and CD28-induced Vav1 activity is required for the accumulation of primed T cells into antigenic tissue
Authors: David Rachel , Ma Liang , Ivetic Aleksandar , Takesono Aya , Ridley Anne J. , Chai Jian-Guo , Tybulewicz Victor L. , Marelli-Berg Federica M.
Published: December 2008

Localization of primed T cells to antigenic tissue is essential for the development of effective immunity. Together with tissue-selective homing molecules, T-cell receptor (TCR)– and CD28-mediated signals have been shown to promote transendothelial migration of specific T cells into nonlymphoid antigen-rich tissue. However, the cellular and molecular requirements for T-cell accumulation to target tissue following their recruitment are largely undefined. The guanine nucleotide exchange factor (GEF) Vav1 has an integral role in coupling TCR and CD28 to signaling pathways that regulate T-cell activation and migration. Here, we have investigated the contribution of TCR- and CD28-induced Vav1 activity to the trafficking and localization of primed HY-specific CD4+ T cells to antigenic sites. Severe migratory defects displayed by Vav1−/− T cells in vitro were fully compensated by a combination of shear flow and chemokines, leading to normal recruitment of Vav1−/− T cells in vivo. In contrast, Vav1−/− T-cell retention into antigen-rich tissue was severely impaired, reflecting T cells' inability to engage in sustained TCR- and CD28-mediated interactions with tissue-resident antigen-presenting cells (APCs). This novel function of APC-induced, and TCR- and CD28-mediated Vav1 activity in the regulation of effector T-cell immunity highlights its potential as a therapeutic target in T cell–mediated tissue damage.
Engineering human hematopoietic stem/progenitor cells to produce a broadly neutralizing anti-HIV antibody after in vitro maturation to human B lymphocytes.
Authors: Luo Xin M. , Maarschalk Emily , O'Connell Ryan M. , Wang Pin , Yang Lili , Baltimore David
Published: December 2008

Broadly neutralizing anti-HIV antibodies are rare and have proved hard to elicit with any immunogen. We have tested in vitro the notion that such antibodies or other antiviral proteins could be made by lentivirus-mediated gene transfer into human hematopoietic stem/progenitor cells (HSPCs), followed by differentiation of the transduced cells into B cells, the most potent antibody-producing cells. To do this, we have developed a highly efficient system for in vitro maturation of secreting B lymphocytes and plasma cells from CD34+ HSPCs. It is a 3-stage, in vitro culture system that supports normal human B-lineage development from HSPCs to antibody-secreting plasmablasts (∼36%) and plasma cells (∼20%). By transducing human cord blood CD34+ cells with lentiviral vectors encoding a secretory monoclonal anti-HIV antibody, b12 (IgG1), we were able to program human B cells to produce in vitro up to 1.5 μg/mL of this broadly neutralizing antibody. Our results suggest that an HIV vaccine might be delivered by autologous transplantation of in vitro–programmed HSPCs, which would develop into antibody-secreting B cells in vivo and provide a continuous supply of anti-HIV neutralizing antibodies.
Mind the gap between policy imperatives and service provision: a qualitative study of the process of respiratory service development in England and Wales
Authors: Hamilton Sonya , Huby Guro , Tierney Alison , Powell Alison , Kielmann Tara , Sheikh Aziz , Pinnock Hilary
Published: December 2008

Background

Healthcare systems globally are reconfiguring to address the needs of people with long-term conditions such as respiratory disease. Primary Care Organisations (PCOs) in England and Wales are charged with the task of developing cost-effective patient-centred local models of care. We aimed to investigate how PCOs in England and Wales are reconfiguring their workforce to develop respiratory services, and the background factors influencing service redesign.

Methods

Semi-structured qualitative telephone interviews with the person(s) responsible for driving respiratory service reconfiguration in a purposive sample of 30 PCOs. Interviews were recorded, transcribed, coded and thematically analysed.

Results

We interviewed representatives of 30 PCOs with diverse demographic profiles planning a range of models of care. Although the primary driver was consistently identified as the need to respond to a central policy to shift the delivery of care for people with long-term conditions into the community whilst achieving financial balance, the design and implementation of services were subject to a broad range of local, and at times serendipitous, influences. The focus was almost exclusively on the complex needs of patients at the top of the long-term conditions (LTC) pyramid, with the aim of reducing admissions. Whilst some PCOs seemed able to develop innovative care despite uncertainty and financial restrictions, most highlighted many barriers to progress, describing initiatives suddenly shelved for lack of money, progress impeded by reluctant clinicians, plans thwarted by conflicting policies and a PCO workforce demoralised by job insecurity.

Conclusion

For many of our interviewees there was a large gap between central policy rhetoric driving workforce change, and the practical reality of implementing change within PCOs when faced with the challenges of limited resources, diverse professional attitudes and an uncertain organisational context. Research should concentrate on understanding these complex dynamics in order to inform the policymakers, commissioners, health service managers and professionals.