bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
11p15 Imprinting Center Region 1 Loss of Methylation Is a Common and Specific Cause of Typical Russell-Silver Syndrome: Clinical Scoring System and Epigenetic-Phenotypic Correlations
Authors: Netchine Irène , Rossignol Sylvie , Dufourg Marie-Noëlle , Azzi Salah , Rousseau Alexandra , Perin Laurence , Houang Muriel , Steunou Virginie , Esteva Blandine , Thibaud Nathalie , Raux Demay Marie-Charles , Danton Fabienne , Petriczko Elzbieta , Bertrand Anne-Marie , Heinrichs Claudine , Carel Jean-Claude , Loeuille Guy-André , Pinto Graziella , Jacquemont Marie-Line , Gicquel Christine , Cabrol Sylvie , Le Bouc Yves
Published: May 2007

Context: Russell-Silver syndrome (RSS), characterized by intrauterine and postnatal growth retardation, dysmorphic features, and frequent body asymmetry, spares cranial growth. Maternal uniparental disomy for chromosome 7 (mUPD7) is found in 5–10% of cases. We identified loss of methylation (LOM) of 11p15 Imprinting Center Region 1 (ICR1) domain (including IGF-II) as a mechanism leading to RSS.

Objective: The aim was to screen for 11p15 epimutation and mUPD7 in RSS and non-RSS small-for-gestational-age (SGA) patients and identify epigenetic-phenotypic correlations.

Studied Population and Methods: A total of 127 SGA patients were analyzed. Clinical diagnosis of RSS was established when the criterion of being SGA was associated with at least three of five criteria: postnatal growth retardation, relative macrocephaly, prominent forehead, body asymmetry, and feeding difficulties. Serum IGF-II was evaluated for 82 patients.

Results: Of the 127 SGA patients, 58 were diagnosed with RSS; 37 of these (63.8%) displayed partial LOM of the 11p15 ICR1 domain, and three (5.2%) had mUPD7. No molecular abnormalities were found in the non-RSS SGA group (n = 69). Birth weight, birth length, and postnatal body mass index (BMI) were lower in the abnormal 11p15 RSS group (ab-ICR1-RSS) than in the normal 11p15 RSS group [−3.4 vs.−2.6 sd score (SDS), −4.4 vs.−3.4 SDS, and −2.5 vs.−1.6 SDS, respectively; P < 0.05]. Among RSS patients, prominent forehead, relative macrocephaly, body asymmetry, and low BMI were significantly associated with ICR1 LOM. All ab-ICR1-RSS patients had at least four of five criteria of the scoring system. Postnatal IGF-II levels were within normal values.

Conclusion: The 11p15 ICR1 epimutation is a major, specific cause of RSS exhibiting failure to thrive. We propose a clinical scoring system (including a BMI < −2 SDS), highly predictive of 11p15 ICR1 LOM, for the diagnosis of RSS.
The Type II Iodothyronine Deiodinase Is Up-Regulated in Skeletal Muscle during Prolonged Critical Illness
Authors: Mebis Liese , Langouche Lies , Visser Theo J. , Van den Berghe Greet
Published: May 2007

Context: Critical illness is associated with the low T3 syndrome. It remains unclear whether altered type II deiodinase activity (D2) in skeletal muscle contributes to this syndrome.

Objective: Our objective was to study D2 expression and activity in skeletal muscle of acute and prolonged critically ill patients.

Design and Setting: We conducted a clinical observational study in acute and prolonged critical illness with comparison with healthy controls at a university hospital surgical intensive care unit.

Patients: Subjects included 63 prolonged critically ill patients who died in the intensive care unit, 21 acutely ill patients, and 38 controls matched for age, gender, and body mass index.

Results: Elevated expression of the D2 gene and D2 activity in skeletal muscle of prolonged, but not acute, critically ill patients were observed in the face of low circulating thyroid hormone levels.

Conclusions: Reduced D2 activity does not appear to play a role in the pathogenesis of the low T3 syndrome of critical illness.
Locating Indonesian Literature in the World
Authors: Day Tony
Published: May 2007

Tony Day is visiting professor of history at Wesleyan University and visiting research fellow in the Department of History at Yale University. He is author of Fluid Iron: State Formation in Southeast Asia (2002) and editor of Identifying with Freedom: Indonesia after Suharto (2007). He is writing a comparative study of Javanese, Dutch, and Malay literature during the nineteenth and twentieth centuries and a book on identity and freedom in Southeast Asia.
Region-specific requirement for cholesterol modification of sonic hedgehog in patterning the telencephalon and spinal cord
Authors: Huang Xi , Litingtung Ying , Chiang Chin
Published: May 2007

Sonic hedgehog (Shh) secreted from the axial signaling centers of the notochord and prechordal plate functions as a morphogen in dorsoventral patterning of the neural tube. Active Shh is uniquely cholesterol-modified and the hydrophobic nature of cholesterol suggests that it might regulate Shh spreading in the neural tube. Here, we examined the capacity of Shh lacking the cholesterol moiety (ShhN) to pattern different cell types in the telencephalon and spinal cord. In mice expressing ShhN, we detected low-level ShhN in the prechordal plate and notochord, consistent with the notion that ShhN can rapidly spread from its site of synthesis. Surprisingly, we found that low-level ShhN can elicit the generation of a full spectrum of ventral cell types in the spinal cord, whereas ventral neuronal specification and ganglionic eminence development in the ShhN/-telencephalon were severely impaired, suggesting that telencephalic patterning is more sensitive to alterations in local Shh concentration and spreading. In agreement, we observed induction of Shh pathway activity and expression of ventral markers at ectopic sites in the dorsal telencephalon indicative of long-range ShhN activity. Our findings indicate an essential role for the cholesterol moiety in restricting Shh dilution and deregulated spread for patterning the telencephalon. We propose that the differential effect of ShhN in patterning the spinal cord versus telencephalon may be attributed to regional differences in the maintenance of Shh expression in the ventral neuroepithelium and differences in dorsal tissue responsiveness to deregulated Shh spreading behavior.
Conditional ablation of GFRα1 in postmigratory enteric neurons triggers unconventional neuronal death in the colon and causes a Hirschsprung's disease phenotype
Authors: Uesaka Toshihiro , Jain Sanjay , Yonemura Shigenobu , Uchiyama Yasuo , Milbrandt Jeffrey , Enomoto Hideki
Published: May 2007

The regulation of neuronal survival and death by neurotrophic factors plays a central role in the sculpting of the nervous system, but the identity of survival signals for developing enteric neurons remains obscure. We demonstrate here that conditional ablation of GFRα1,the high affinity receptor for GDNF, in mice during late gestation induces rapid and widespread neuronal death in the colon, leading to colon aganglionosis reminiscent of Hirschsprung's disease. Enteric neuron death induced by GFRα1 inactivation is not associated with the activation of common cell death executors, caspase-3 or -7, and lacks the morphological hallmarks of apoptosis, such as chromatin compaction and mitochondrial pathology. Consistent with these in vivo observations, neither caspase inhibition nor Bax deficiency blocks death of colon-derived enteric neurons induced by GDNF deprivation. This study reveals an essential role for GFRα1 in the survival of enteric neurons and suggests that caspase-independent death can be triggered by abolition of neurotrophic signals.
Dissection of the target specificity of the RNA-binding protein HOW revealsdppmRNA as a novel HOW target
Authors: Israeli David , Nir Ronit , Volk Talila
Published: May 2007

Regulation of RNA metabolism plays a major role in controlling gene expression during developmental processes. The Drosophila RNA-binding protein Held out wing (HOW), regulates an array of developmental processes in embryonic and adult growth. We have characterized the primary sequence and secondary structural requirements for the HOW response element (HRE), and show that this site is necessary and sufficient for HOW binding. Based on this analysis, we have identified the Drosophila TGFβ homolog, dpp, as a novel direct target for HOW negative regulation in the wing imaginal disc. The binding of the repressor isoform HOW(L) to the dpp3′ untranslated region (UTR) leads to a reduction of GFP-dpp3′UTR reporter levels in S-2 cells, in an HRE site-dependent manner. Moreover, co-expression of HOW(L) in the wing imaginal disc with a dpp-GFP fusion construct led to a reduction in DPP-GFP levels in a dpp-3′UTR-dependent manner. Conversely, a reduction of the endogenous levels of HOW by targeted expression of HOW-specific double-stranded RNA led to a corresponding elevation in dpp mRNA level in the wing imaginal disc. Thus, by characterizing the RNA sequences that bind HOW, we demonstrate a novel aspect of regulation, at the mRNA level,of Drosophila DPP.
Integration of cytokinin and gibberellin signalling byArabidopsistranscription factors GIS, ZFP8 and GIS2 in the regulation of epidermal cell fate
Authors: Gan Yinbo , Liu Chang , Yu Hao , Broun Pierre
Published: May 2007

The effective integration of hormone signals is essential to normal plant growth and development. Gibberellins (GA) and cytokinins act antagonistically in leaf formation and meristem maintenance and GA counteract some of the effects of cytokinins on epidermal differentiation. However, both can stimulate the initiation of defensive epidermal structures called trichomes. To understand how their relative influence on epidermal cell fate is modulated, we investigated the molecular mechanisms through which they regulate trichome initiation in Arabidopsis. The control by cytokinins of trichome production requires two genes expressed in late inflorescence organs, ZFP8 and GIS2, which encode C2H2 transcription factors related to GLABROUS INFLORESCENCE STEMS (GIS). Cytokinin-inducible GIS2 plays a prominent role in the cytokinin response, in which it acts downstream of SPINDLY and upstream of GLABROUS1. In addition, GIS2 and ZFP8 mediate, like GIS, the regulation of trichome initiation by gibberellins. By contrast, GISdoes not play a significant role in the cytokinin response. Collectively, GIS, ZFP8 and GIS2, which encode proteins that are largely equivalent in function, play partially redundant and essential roles in inflorescence trichome initiation and in its regulation by GA and cytokinins. These roles are consistent with their pattern of expression and with the regional influence of GA and cytokinins on epidermal differentiation. Our findings show that functional specialization within a transcription factor gene family can facilitate the integration of different developmental cues in the regulation of plant cell differentiation.
A clonal analysis of neural progenitors during axolotl spinal cord regeneration reveals evidence for both spatially restricted and multipotent progenitors
Authors: Mchedlishvili Levan , Epperlein Hans H. , Telzerow Anja , Tanaka Elly M.
Published: May 2007

Complete regeneration of the spinal cord occurs after tail regeneration in urodele amphibians such as the axolotl. Little is known about how neural progenitor cells are recruited from the mature tail, how they populate the regenerating spinal cord, and whether the neural progenitor cells are multipotent. To address these issues we used three types of cell fate mapping. By grafting green fluorescent protein-positive (GFP+) spinal cord we show that a 500 μm region adjacent to the amputation plane generates the neural progenitors for regeneration. We further tracked single nuclear-GFP-labeled cells as they proliferated during regeneration, observing their spatial distribution, and ultimately their expression of the progenitor markers PAX7 and PAX6. Most progenitors generate descendents that expand along the anterior/posterior (A/P) axis, but remain close to the dorsal/ventral(D/V) location of the parent. A minority of clones spanned multiple D/V domains, taking up differing molecular identities, indicating that cells can execute multipotency in vivo. In parallel experiments, bulk labeling of dorsally or ventrally restricted progenitor cells revealed that ventral cells at the distal end of the regenerating spinal cord switch to dorsal cell fates. Analysis of PAX7 and PAX6 expression along the regenerating spinal cord indicated that these markers are expressed in dorsal and lateral domains all along the spinal cord except at the distal terminus. These results suggest that neural progenitor identity is destabilized or altered in the terminal vesicle region, from which clear migration of cells into the surrounding blastema is also observed.
Candida albicanshyphal morphogenesis occurs in Sec3p-independent and Sec3p-dependent phases separated by septin ring formation
Authors: Li Chang-Run , Lee Raymond Teck-Ho , Wang Yan-Ming , Zheng Xin-De , Wang Yue
Published: May 2007

The growing tips of Candida albicans hyphae are sites of polarized exocytosis. Mammalian septins have been implicated in regulating exocytosis and C. albicans septins are known to localize at hyphal tips, although their function here is unknown. Here, we report that C. albicans cells deleted of the exocyst subunit gene SEC3 can grow normal germ tubes, but are unable to maintain tip growth after assembly of the first septin ring, resulting in isotropic expansion of the tip. Deleting either of the septin genes CDC10 or CDC11 caused Sec3p mislocalization and surprisingly, also restored hyphal development in the sec3Δ mutant without rescuing the temperature sensitivity. Co-immunoprecipitation experiments detected association of the septin Cdc3p with the exocyst subunits Sec3p and Sec5p. Our results reveal that C. albicans hyphal development occurs through Sec3p-independent and dependent phases, and provide strong genetic and biochemical evidence for a role of septins in polarized exocytosis.
Prazosin Treatment of Nightmares Related to Posttraumatic Stress Disorder
Authors: Dierks Matthew R , Jordan Joseph K , Sheehan Amy Heck
Published: May 2007

OBJECTIVE:

To describe current data evaluating the use of prazosin in adults with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) who are experiencing nightmares.

DATA SOURCES:

A literature search using MEDLINE (1966–March 2007) and the Published International Literature on Traumatic Stress database (1982–March 2007) was conducted using the search terms α-antagonist, α-blocker, prazosin, and posttraumatic stress disorder. References of identified articles were reviewed for additional citations.

STUDY SELECTION AND DATA EXTRACTION:

All English-language articles regarding the use of prazosin in adults with nightmares related to PTSD were reviewed.

DATA SYNTHESIS:

PTSD is a psychiatric disorder that develops in some people after exposure to trauma. Sleep disturbances occur in up to 70% of patients with PTSD. Several neurotransmitters have been implicated in the pathophysiology of sleep disturbances in PTSD. Adrenergic agents that inhibit norepinephrine, such as prazosin, may decrease the arousal produced by norepinephrine in response to a stressor. Four open-label studies, 1 retrospective chart review, and 2 placebo-controlled trials reporting the use of prazosin for nightmares related to PTSD were reviewed. All studies included a small number of patients (4–59) and evaluated prazosin dosages ranging from 1 to 20 mg/day. Despite various limitations, all of the studies showed significant improvements in the sleep-related symptoms of PTSD following the addition of prazosin therapy, based on the Clinician Administered PTSD Scale recurrent distressing dreams item and the Clinical Global Impression of Change scale.

CONCLUSIONS:

Prazosin appears to be a promising and fairly well tolerated agent for the management of PTSD-related nightmares and sleep disturbances. Further well designed trials are warranted to establish its place in therapy.
Pharmacy and Generic Substitution of Antiepileptic Drugs: Missing in Action?
Authors: Welty Timothy E
Published: May 2007

Generic substitution of antiepileptic drugs is an issue that is gathering a lot of attention in the neurology community but is not receiving much attention within pharmacy. Several proposals have been drafted that restrict a pharmacist's decision-making in generic substitution. These proposals highlight concerns about the pharmacy community related to generic substitution. Careful consideration needs to be given to these issues by pharmacists and pharmacy professional organizations. Unless pharmacy as a profession takes strong positions in support of a pharmacist's ability to make decisions about pharmacotherapy and addresses many of the pharmacy-related problems of generic substitution, policies that negatively impact pharmacy will be established.
Coping Strategies and Problem Gambling
Authors: Farrelly Simone , Ffrench Christine , Ogeil Rowan P. , Phillips James G.
Published: May 2007

In DSM-IV, problem gambling is associated with symptoms such as escape, denial, and chasing. However, these symptoms could actually be underlying coping strategies that contribute to the problems associated with gambling behaviour. To address relationships between coping strategies and gambling problems, 65 participants (37 males and 28 females) with a mean age of 37 completed the South Oaks Gambling Screen (SOGS), and questionnaires addressing coping strategies, mood states, and dissociative experiences. Specific subscales addressing coping strategies relevant to DSM-IV symptoms were examined, namely Distancing, Escape-Avoidance and Confrontative Coping. Although fantasy and denial feature in the behaviours of problem gamblers, dissociative tendencies were only indirectly linked to problem gambling status. Instead, problem gambling status was related to depression and greater tendencies towards Confrontative Coping and Distancing. The present data demonstrates several distinct factors associated with gambling problems and suggests confrontation could have a role in problem gambling.
Effects of Treadmill Exercise on Dopaminergic Transmission in the 1-Methyl-4-Phenyl-1,2,3,6-Tetrahydropyridine-Lesioned Mouse Model of Basal Ganglia Injury
Authors: Petzinger Giselle M. , Walsh John P. , Akopian Garnik , Hogg Elizabeth , Abernathy Avery , Arevalo Pablo , Turnquist Patty , Vučković Marta , Fisher Beth E. , Togasaki Daniel M. , Jakowec Michael W.
Published: May 2007

Studies have suggested that there are beneficial effects of exercise in patients with Parkinson's disease, but the underlying molecular mechanisms responsible for these effects are poorly understood. Studies in rodent models provide a means to examine the effects of exercise on dopaminergic neurotransmission. Using intensive treadmill exercise, we determined changes in striatal dopamine in the 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP)-lesioned mouse. C57BL/6J mice were divided into four groups: (1) saline, (2) saline plus exercise, (3) MPTP, and (4) MPTP plus exercise. Exercise was started 5 d after MPTP lesioning and continued for 28 d. Treadmill running improved motor velocity in both exercise groups. All exercised animals also showed increased latency to fall (improved balance) using the accelerating rotarod compared with nonexercised mice. Using HPLC, we found no difference in striatal dopamine tissue levels between MPTP plus exercise compared with MPTP mice. There was an increase detected in saline plus exercise mice. Analyses using fast-scan cyclic voltammetry showed increased stimulus-evoked release and a decrease in decay of dopamine in the dorsal striatum of MPTP plus exercise mice only. Immunohistochemical staining analysis of striatal tyrosine hydroxylase and dopamine transporter proteins showed decreased expression in MPTP plus exercise mice compared with MPTP mice. There were no differences in mRNA transcript expression in midbrain dopaminergic neurons between these two groups. However, there was diminished transcript expression in saline plus exercise compared with saline mice. Our findings suggest that the benefits of treadmill exercise on motor performance may be accompanied by changes in dopaminergic neurotransmission that are different in the injured (MPTP-lesioned) compared with the noninjured (saline) nigrostriatal system.
Subunit Dissociation and Diffusion Determine the Subcellular Localization of Rod and Cone Transducins
Authors: Rosenzweig Derek H. , Nair K. Saidas , Wei Junhua , Wang Qiang , Garwin Greg , Saari John C. , Chen Ching-Kang , Smrcka Alan V. , Swaroop Anand , Lem Janis , Hurley James B. , Slepak Vladlen Z.
Published: May 2007

Activation of rod photoreceptors by light induces a massive redistribution of the heterotrimeric G-protein transducin. In darkness, transducin is sequestered within the membrane-enriched outer segments of the rod cell. In light, it disperses throughout the entire neuron. We show here that redistribution of rod transducin by light requires activation, but it does not require ATP. This observation rules out participation of molecular motors in the redistribution process. In contrast to the light-stimulated redistribution of rod transducin in rods, cone transducin in cones does not redistribute during activation. Remarkably, when cone transducin is expressed in rods, it does undergo light-stimulated redistribution. We show here that the difference in subcellular localization of activated rod and cone G-proteins correlates with their affinity for membranes. Activated rod transducin releases from membranes, whereas activated cone transducin remains bound to membranes. A synthetic peptide that dissociates G-protein complexes independently of activation facilitates dispersion of both rod and cone transducins within the cells. This peptide also facilitates detachment of both G-proteins from the membranes. Together, these results show that it is the dissociation state of transducin that determines its localization in photoreceptors. When rod transducin is stimulated, its subunits dissociate, leave outer segment membranes, and equilibrate throughout the cell. Cone transducin subunits do not dissociate during activation and remain sequestered within the outer segment. These findings indicate that the subunits of some heterotrimeric G-proteins remain associated during activation in their native environments.
Wnt-7a Induces Presynaptic Colocalization of α7-Nicotinic Acetylcholine Receptors and Adenomatous Polyposis Coli in Hippocampal Neurons
Authors: Farías Ginny G. , Vallés Ana S. , Colombres Marcela , Godoy Juan A. , Toledo Enrique M. , Lukas Ronald J. , Barrantes Francisco J. , Inestrosa Nibaldo C.
Published: May 2007

Nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) contribute significantly to hippocampal function. α7-nAChRs are present in presynaptic sites in hippocampal neurons and may influence transmitter release, but the factors that determine their presynaptic localization are unknown. We report here thatWnt-7a, a ligand active in the canonicalWntsignaling pathway, induces dissociation of the adenomatous polyposis coli (APC) protein from the β-catenin cytoplasmic complex and the interaction of APC with α7-nAChRs in hippocampal neurons. Interestingly,Wnt-7ainduces the relocalization of APC to membranes, clustering of APC in neurites, and coclustering of APC with different, presynaptic protein markers.Wnt-7aalso increases the number and size of coclusters of α7-nAChRs and APC in presynaptic terminals. These short-term changes in α7-nAChRs occur in the few minutes after ligand exposure and involve translocation to the plasma membrane without affecting total receptor levels. Longer-term exposure toWnt-7aincreases nAChR α7 subunit levels in an APC-independent manner and increases clusters of α7-nAChRs in neurites via an APC-dependent process. Together, these results demonstrate that stimulation through the canonicalWntpathway regulates the presynaptic localization of APC and α7-nAChRs with APC serving as an intermediary in the α7-nAChR relocalization process. Modulation byWntsignaling may be essential for α7-nAChR expression and function in synapses.
Kants universaler Kosmopolitismus
Authors: Höffe Otfried
Published: May 2007

Kant, der Weltbürger im Wissen aus Königsberg, entwickelt eine universale kosmopolitische Philosophie, welche im heutigen Zeitalter der Globalisierung hochwillkommen und hochmodern erscheint. Sie verbindet interkulturelle Gültigkeit mit einem Recht auf kulturelle Differenz. Kants Kosmopolitismus baut nicht nur auf Wissen und Moral auf, sondern bezieht darüber hinaus auch die Gegenstandsbereiche Erziehung, Geschichtsphilosophie, Teleologie, Ästhetik und Rechtsphilosophie mit ein.
Drei Formen der Ersten Person Plural
Authors: Haase Matthias
Published: May 2007

Stanley Cavell vertritt die These, dass man nur verstehen kann, was eine Sprache ist, wenn man die Grammatik der Aussagen untersucht, mit der Muttersprachler ihre Sprache artikulieren: Es sind Aussagen in der Ersten Person Plural, die kein Beobachtungswissen, sondern eine Form von Selbstbewusstsein zum Ausdruck bringen. Während Cavells These, das Wesen von Sprache zeige sich in der Grammatik jener Aussagen, eine tiefe Einsicht darstellt, ist seine Analyse ihrer Form verfehlt. Cavell verwechselt verschiedene Formen der Ersten Person Plural und in der Konsequenz verschiedene Begriffe des Sozialen. Für eine angemessene Metaphysik der Sprache gilt es, das generische Wir von dem distributiven und dem kollektiven Wir zu unterscheiden.
Ein Gespenst geht um. Über Heimat und Heimatlosigkeit
Authors: Thomä Dieter
Published: May 2007

Buchkritik über Stanley Cavells ‘The Claim of Reason’ in deutscher Übersetzung
Cavell über Skeptizismus
Authors: Rorty Richard
Published: May 2007

Buchkritik über Stanley Cavells ‘The Claim of Reason’ in deutscher Übersetzung
Militarizing Class Warfare: The Historical Foundations of the Neoliberal/Neoconservative Nexus
Authors: Gabbard David
Published: May 2007

Given the vacuity of political metaphors in the USA, most Americans might assume neoliberalism and neoconservatism to be at odds with one another. This article argues to the contrary. Neoconservatism has provided a solution to a crisis in neoliberalism – the crisis of how to manufacture the public's support for an agenda that was so decidedly contrary to the public's larger interests. Aided in large part by the political philosophy of Leo Strauss, neoconservatism has emboldened neoliberals to embrace the heteronomy always implicit within the capital relation by recognizing their own ‘natural right’ to rule by virtue of their demonstrated superiority. Hence, the advancement of the neoliberal agenda has demanded more than the economic disenfranchisement of the population. To fulfill its desires to return America to nineteenth-century conditions, when capital dominated, neoliberalism has formed an alliance with neoconservatives to effect an equally devastating political disenfranchisement of American citizens.
Renaissance 2010: The Reassertion of Ruling-Class Power through Neoliberal Policies in Chicago
Authors: Lipman Pauline , Hursh David
Published: May 2007

The Chicago Public Schools, along with the city of Chicago itself, serve as an exemplary case of neoliberal reorganization, as corporate and governmental ‘leaders’ remake Chicago into a global city meeting the needs of capitalism. As such, Chicago provides us with an example of ‘actually existing neoliberalism,’ in which neoliberalism's goals are contradictory and contested. The focus in this article is on Renaissance 2010, a corporate proposal to reform both the city and its schools to create schools and spaces that will attract the professionals needed in a global city. Renaissance 2010 places public schooling under the control of corporate leaders who aim to convert public schools to charter and contract schools, handing over their administration to corporations and breaking the power of unions. However, as the article shows, such reforms not only disenfranchise the poor, people of color, students, parents, and educators, but also create an economically and spatially separate city. Consequently, while neoliberalism is promoted as an efficient and neutral reform, in Chicago neoliberalism faces increasing resistance.
The Construction of the Citizen School Project as an Alternative to Neoliberal Educational Policies
Authors: Gandin Luis Armando
Published: May 2007

This article examines the ‘Citizen School’ project implemented in Porto Alegre, Brazil as an example of how to fight against neoliberal projects. It begins by describing the broader context in which the Citizen School project was born, including the hegemonic agenda for education, first in its global aspects and then in specific instances in Brazil. The Brazilian case is understood not as a simple reproduction of a global trend in education, but as a hybrid process, with local characteristics and peculiarities. Therefore, this article examines the ways in which the global process of neoliberalism and marketization heavily influences the Brazilian educational scenario but, at the same time, it also studies the results of the encounter of this global process with the local dominant alliances and struggles for transformation. Second, it situates the Citizen School project in the context of the counter-hegemonic educational struggles in Brazil. Finally, the article also addresses how the leaders of the project were able to disarticulate some of the decentralization and autonomy proposals from its neoliberal agenda and rearticulate them in an alternative project, the Citizen School project.
Teacher as Technician: Semi-Professionalism after the 1988 Education Reform Act and its Effect on Conceptions of Pupil Identity
Authors: Gray Sandra Leaton
Published: May 2007

This article discusses whether the occupational culture of teachers has changed as a consequence of increased managerialism, using as an exemplar some of the routine planning, assessment and reporting procedures in common use in schools in England. The article examines this claim in the light of developments after the 1988 Education Reform Act, which had a profound effect on the way education is delivered in England. It then relates this question to the issue of teacher and pupil identity within the English education system, and concludes that there are dangers with using such frameworks for education, as they can undermine the role of the child as an individual within the schooling process.
Considering Pramlintide Therapy for Postprandial Blood Glucose Control
Authors: Childs Belinda P. , Kesty Nicole C. , Klein Eric , Rubin Richard , Wick Allison
Published: May 2007

Diabetes is a chronic disease affecting > 20 million Americans, and its incidence, especially in the form of type 2 diabetes, is increasing. Multiple therapeutics are available that address the dysregulation of the multiple hormones responsible for glucose homeostasis. Despite the various options,tight glycemic control is often elusive. Additionally, the pursuit of tight glycemic control is generally accompanied by various clinical challenges, such as hypoglycemia, weight gain, and glucose fluctuations, in particular,postprandial fluctuations.

Several therapeutic options are currently available to address postprandial glucose fluctuations, including rapid-acting insulin analogs, incretin mimetics, dipeptidyl peptidase IV inhibitors, α-glucosidase inhibitors,meglitinides, and amylinomimetics. This article presents the experiences of three patients for whom pramlintide, an amylinomimetic, was identified as an appropriate therapeutic option. Practical considerations for clinicians,patient lifestyle factors, and perceptions of pramlintide therapy are also presented.
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome and Pregnancy: Is Metformin the Magic Bullet?
Authors: Zisser Howard Craig
Published: May 2007

In Brief

This article reviews the literature regarding the effects of metformin therapy in pregnant women with polycystic ovary syndrome on weight loss,fertility, early pregnancy loss, malformations, gestational diabetes mellitus,perinatal mortality, placental clearance, lactation, and early childhood development. The pharmacology of metformin is also presented. Preliminary data suggest that metformin for this population may be both safe and effective. Large blinded, randomized clinical trials are underway to confirm the preliminary safety data.
Achillea ligustica: composition and antimicrobial activity of essential oils from the leaves, flowers and some pure constituents
Authors: Bader Ammar , Panizzi Lirio , Cioni Pier , Flamini Guido
Published: May 2007

The composition of the essential oils obtained from the leaves and the flowers of Achillea ligustica (Asteraceae) growing in Sicily has been studied. The main constituents of the leaves were 4-terpineol (19.3%), carvone (8.9%), γ-terpinene (7.2%) and β-phellandrene (6.8%). 4-terpineol (12.0%), carvone (10.0%), and β-phellandrene (5.4%), along with linalool (20.4%) and cedrol (4.3%) were detected in the flower’s oil. Furthermore, the antimicrobial activity of the essential oils and of some of the main constituents were assayed on bacteria and fungi.
Cytokines in Nasal Polyposis, Acute and Chronic Sinusitis
Authors: Rudack Claudia , Stoll Wolfgang , Bachert Claus
Published: May 2007

Cytokines are potent biologic factors involved in the regulation of inflammation, immune defense, and wound healing. Recently, growing interest has developed in the role of cytokines in chronic sinusitis and nasal polyposis. In the present study, we investigated the cytokine profile of different types of rhinosinusitis in order to evaluate whether a specific form of rhinosinusitis is associated with the expression of a certain cytokine profile. Sinus mucosa from patients with acute sinusitis (n = 10), chronic sinusitis (n = 7), antrochoanal polyp (n = 10), nasal polyps (n = 8) and controls of turbinate mucosa (n = 7) were sampled. The cytokine protein content (IL-1β, JL-3, IL-4, IL-5, IL-6, JL-8, IL-13, GM-CSF, interferon-γ) of tissue homogenates was measured using ELISA technique. In acute sinusitis, the synthesis of proinflammatory cytokines and of the neutrophil chemokine IL-8 and IL-3 appeared to be upregulated. Chronic sinusitis mucosa demonstrated no significantly increased concentrations of the measured cytokines. In bilateral nasal polyposis, but not in antrochoanal polyps, the eosinophil related cytokine IL-5 was strongly upregulated. From these findings, it appears that specific cytokine patterns are found in different forms of sinusitis, and that IL-5 may represent the most important cytokine responsible for tissue eosinophilia in nasal polyposis.
Endoscopic Inferior Turbinoplasty
Authors: Marks Steven
Published: May 2007

Turbinectomy is a widely performed procedure for treatment of turbinate hypertrophy and chronic hypertrophic rhinitis. In this article an endoscopic variation of the inferior turbinoplasty is presented. This technique is rapid and simple and has the advantage of superior visualization during the elevation of the mucosal flap and resection of the turbinate. It allows precise tailoring of the resection to the needs of the patient. This procedure has been successfully performed in more than 30 patients without complication. The endoscopic inferior turbinoplasty is a safe and easy technique for treatment of inferior turbinate hypertrophy.
Proposing 6 Dimensions Within the Construct of Movement in the Movement Continuum Theory
Authors: Allen Diane D
Published: May 2007

Background and Purpose

The Movement Continuum Theory (MCT) provides a potential basis for movement assessment and intervention, but “movement” lacks specificity. The purposes of this study were to propose and evaluate a subdivision of movement into multiple dimensions.

Subjects

A convenience sample of 318 adults completed a 24-item self-report measure of movement ability.

Methods

A multimethod approach was used to identify, operationalize, and test a multidimensional model of movement. Data analysis included a comparison of the fit of unidimensional and multidimensional models using item response theory methods and inspection of response patterns.

Results

A model specifying 6 dimensions—flexibility, strength, accuracy, speed, adaptability, and endurance—fit respondent data significantly better than the unidimensional model, even with high pair-wise correlations between dimensions. Response patterns showed large differences rather than uniform scores across dimensions for over half of the respondents.

Discussion and Conclusion

Subdividing movement into the proposed dimensions fits the data and potentially strengthens the usefulness of the MCT as a theoretical foundation for managing movement effectively.
Calcaneocuboid Distraction Arthrodesis and First Metatarsocuneiform Arthrodesis for Correction of Acquired Flatfoot Deformity in a Cadaver Model
Authors: Logel Kevin J. , Parks Brent G. , Schon Lew C.
Published: May 2007

Background: Lateral column lengthening has been associated with residual forefoot supination and symptomatic lateral overload in treatment of acquired flatfoot. A medial column procedure may be useful to redistribute load to the medial column. We evaluated radiographic and pressure changes in a severe flatfoot model with lateral column lengthening and investigated the effect of an added first metatarsocuneiform arthrodesis. Methods: Ten cadaver specimens were loaded in simulated double-legged stance, and radiographic and pressure data were collected for all tested states. Calcaneocuboid arthrodesis was done with a 10-mm foam wedge. Residual forefoot varus was corrected through the first metatarsocuneiform joint. Results: Differences in the mean lateral talar-first metatarsal angle, talonavicular angle, talocalcaneal angle, and calcaneal pitch were significant between the intact foot and the flatfoot. After calcaneocuboid distraction arthrodesis and tendon transfer, the lateral talar-first metatarsal angle, talonavicular angle, and calcaneal pitch were significantly different from the flatfoot. After added first metatarsocuneiform arthrodesis, the talonavicular angle was not significantly different from the intact foot. Lateral forefoot pressure increased in the flatfoot after lateral column lengthening but was not significantly different from the intact foot after first metarsocuneiform arthrodesis was added. Conclusions: Adding first metatarsocuneiform arthrodesis to calcaneocuboid distraction arthrodesis for treatment of flatfoot deformity provided improvement in radiographic and pedobarographic parameters of a severe model of stage II posterior tibial tendon dysfunction.
Influence of Tendon Transfer Site on Moment Arms of the Flexor Digitorum Longus Muscle
Authors: Hui Hou-en J. , Beals Timothy C. , Brown Nicholas A.T.
Published: May 2007

Background: Adult acquired flatfoot is a common condition that leads to significant morbidity. Along with bony procedures to operatively treat this condition, transfer of the flexor digitorum longus (FDL) tendon to the medial cuneiform or navicular is routinely performed. The goal of this tendon transfer is to increase the capacity of the FDL to invert the hindfoot and control the transverse tarsal joints. However, it is not known whether this biomechanical goal is met or whether one transfer site produces a larger mechanical advantage compared to another site. The purpose of this study was to calculate FDL muscle moment arms at the hindfoot with two clinically relevant transfer locations to quantify the change in mechanical advantage of the FDL after tendon transfer. Methods: In seven cadaver specimens, muscle moment arms of the FDL with respect to hindfoot motion were measured using the tendon excursion method before and after the FDL was transferred to the plantar aspect of the navicular and medial cuneiform. The position and orientation of the foot and excursion of the FDL tendon were measured with an optoelectronic measurement system. Results: The FDL moment arm did not increase after tendon transfer to either the medial cuneiform or navicular when compared to its native site. There were significant decreases in FDL moment arm when transferred from its native site to the medial cuneiform (56% decrease, p = 0.018) and navicular (46% decrease, p = 0.026). Conclusions: In contrast to the clinical proposition that FDL transfer to the navicular or medial cuneiform increases this muscle's mechanical advantage to invert the hindfoot, this cadaver study suggests that, to the contrary, FDL muscle moment arms decrease after tendon transfer.
The Relationship Between Ankle, Hindfoot, and Forefoot Position and Posterior Tibial Muscle Excursion
Authors: Flemister Adolph S. , Neville Christopher G. , Houck Jeff
Published: May 2007

Background: The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship of forefoot position in the transverse plane (abduction/adduction), hindfoot position in the frontal plane (eversion/inversion), and ankle position in the sagittal plane (plantarflexion/dorsiflexion) with posterior tibialis (PT) muscle excursion using an in vitro cadaver model. Methods: Seven fresh-frozen cadaver specimens were potted and mounted on a frame. The PT tendon was dissected 15 cm proximal to the medial malleolus, and a 5-kg weight was sutured to the tendon. A six-camera motion analysis system (Optotrak, Northern Digital, Inc.) was used to track three-dimensional (3D) motion of the tibia, calcaneus (hindfoot) and first metatarsal (forefoot) using bone pins. The ankle, hindfoot, and forefoot were manually placed in 24 different ankle and foot positions. A stepwise regression analysis was used to examine the relationship among ankle, hindfoot, and forefoot kinematics and PT muscle excursion. Results: Hindfoot eversion/inversion and forefoot abduction/adduction accounted for 77% of the variance in PT muscle excursion, with small contributions from ankle plantarflexion/dorsiflexion (5.7%) and forefoot plantarflexion/dorsiflexion (1.9%). A combined regression equation applied to individual specimens resulted in average errors of less than 2.5 mm. Conclusions: This study supports the hypothesis that PT muscle excursion can be estimated using specific foot and ankle kinematic variables. Further, these data suggest that hindfoot eversion and forefoot abduction account for most of the variance in PT muscle excursion and are theorized to be important to control clinically altering the length of the posterior tibial muscle.
Describing the Medial Longitudinal Arch Using Footprint Indices and a Clinical Grading System
Authors: Queen Robin M. , Mall Nathan A. , Hardaker W. Mack , Nunley James A.
Published: May 2007

Background: The current literature is not clear regarding the best method of determining medial longitudinal arch (MLA) height. Differences in MLA height can significantly alter lower extremity biomechanics; therefore, an accurate and reproducible assessment of arch height is essential for clinical evaluation and future research. The goal of this project was to determine the reliability of common arch height measurement techniques. Methods: Foot length, truncated foot length, navicular height, dorsal height, and footprint indices were obtained from healthy volunteers using a mirrored foot photograph box (MFPB). Between-rater and between-day reliability was determined using the interclass correlation coefficient, and the Pearson correlation coefficient was used to determine if any of the footprint parameters correlated with navicular height or normalized navicular height. Results: The most reliable footprint measurement was the footprint index, followed by the Staheli index, Chippaux-Smirak Index, arch index, truncated arch index, and arch length index. The correlation of footprint measurements to normalized navicular height ranged from 0.585 to 0.648. Conclusions: Historically, the height of the navicular is considered to be the best approximation of MLA height. The results of this study indicate that the footprint indices are highly correlated with navicular height, indicating that both navicular height measurements and footprint measurements are valid measures of MLA height. Multiple methods exist for measuring the height of the MLA; therefore, it is important to develop a standard set of measurements to be used when foot type is used as a variable in research studies or when making a clinical diagnosis.
A Specific Bone Marrow Edema around the Foot and Ankle Following Trauma and Immobilization Therapy: Pattern Description and Potential Clinical Relevance
Authors: Elias IIan , Zoga Adam C. , Schweitzer Mark E. , Ballehr Lisa , Morrison William B. , Raikin Steven M.
Published: May 2007

Background: We describe a characteristic pattern of bone marrow edema about the foot and ankle seen by MRI in patients who have undergone recent immobilization therapy and investigate potential etiologies as well as possible clinical significance. Methods: Three reviewers retrospectively evaluated 52 ankle MRI examinations in 18 patients with abnormal signals compatible with bone marrow edema who had been treated with various types and durations of immobilization of the lower limb after traumatic injury. Bone marrow edema patterns were characterized by distribution, extent, location, and interval evolution or resolution on subsequent followup MRI examination. These MRI findings were then correlated with clinical history, symptomatology and treatment regimens. Results: All patients had a characteristic pattern of bone marrow edema about the foot and ankle predominating in subchondral, subcortical, and subenthesial locations. The occurrence of this edema pattern was most often noted on MRI within the first 12 weeks after completion of immobilization therapy or resumption of partial or full weight-bearing and did not correlate well with new symptomatology or pain. In patients with protracted imaging followup, the bone marrow edema ultimately resolved and was not associated with reported setbacks in recovery course or unexpected delays in restoration of function. All MRI examinations performed more than 18 weeks after the immobilization period showed resolution or stabilization of bone marrow signal, with no continued evolution. No patient had a clinical picture suspicious for reflex sympathetic dystrophy. Conclusions: A distinctive pattern of bone marrow edema on MRI of the foot and ankle can be seen on MRI after a variety of weightbearing and nonweightbearing immobilization therapies. This pattern has a consistent appearance on MRI and does not seem to be related to clinical symptomatology. At present, no substantial conclusions can be made regarding the etiology of this phenomenon. However, these bone marrow signal alterations should not mandate further imaging or a change in therapy on the basis of MRI findings alone.
Prediction of the Success of Nonoperative Treatment of Insertional Achilles Tendinosis Based on MRI
Authors: Nicholson Christopher W. , Berlet Gregory C. , Lee Thomas H.
Published: May 2007

Background: Insertional Achilles tendinosis is a common clinical diagnosis for posterior heel pain. Nonoperative treatments often are unsuccessful. The purpose of this paper was to review a series of patients with insertional tendinopathy to determine whether MRI stratification could predictably identify patients in whom nonoperative treatment would fail. Methods: Review of records identified 157 patients (176 tendons) who were treated for insertional posterior heel pain. All patients who required surgery had MRI and their tendinosis was classified based on tendon size and degree of involvement (type I, II, or III). Patients who required surgery had standard two-incision decompression and debridement. Results: Of the 157 patients (176 tendons) with insertional heel pain, 83 (53%) responded to nonoperative treatment (96 tendons). Most of these patients who had MRI evaluation had type I involvement. The remaining 74 patients (47%) required operative intervention after an average of 12 months of conservative treatment (80 tendons). Most of these tendons were types II and III. Overall, two of the 16 type I tendons (12.5%) required surgery, 59 of the 65 type II tendons (90.8%) needed surgery, and 19 (70.4%) of the 27 type III tendons required surgery. Conclusions: Patients with tenderness of the Achilles tendon insertion without obvious signs of inflammation who demonstrate confluent areas of intrasubstance signal changes on MRI (types II and III) are not likely to respond to nonoperative treatment. Early identification of these patients and operative intervention may lead to earlier return to function.