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An imbalance of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and their inhibitors is thought to play a major role in the pathophysiology of joint diseases. The aim of this study is to provide additional insights into the relevance of MMP levels in arthroplasty patients in relation to inflammation and thrombosis. Deidentified plasma samples from 100 patients undergoing total hip arthroplasty or total knee arthroplasty were collected preoperatively, on postoperative day 1, and on postoperative day 3. Tissue inhibitor of MMP 4, tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α), pro-MMP1, MMP3, MMP9, MMP13, and d-dimer were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay kits. A biochip array was used to profile interleukin (IL) 2, IL-4, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), interferon gamma, TNF-α, IL-1α, IL-1β, monocyte chemoattractant protein 1, and endothelial growth factor (EGF) levels. The levels of MMP1, MMP9, MMP13, and TNF-α were elevated preoperatively in arthroplasty patients when compared to healthy individuals. The concentrations of MMP1 and MMP9 increased slightly in postsurgical samples. d-Dimer levels were elevated preoperatively, increased postoperatively, and started decreasing on postoperative day 3. Significant correlations between MMP9 with TNF-α, IL-6, IL-8, VEGF, and EGF were identified. Elevated preoperative MMP1, MMP9, and MMP13 concentrations suggest that they may play a role in the pathogenesis of arthritis. There is also evidence of increased coagulation activity and possible upregulation of several MMPs postsurgically. Correlation analysis indicates that MMP9 levels may potentially be related to inflammation and thrombosis in arthroplasty patients.

Context Donor organs are a scarce gift. Additionally, transplantation is very expensive and the United States lacks universal health insurance for all citizens. These facts combine to make personal finance and insurance some of the criteria for wait listing at US transplant centers. Previous research has shown that the poor and the uninsured (as well as women and nonwhites) are less likely to receive a transplant. Living donor candidates are also limited by the US insurance system. Objective To determine the effect of finance and insurance variables on access to transplant and living donation. Design A qualitative descriptive study of ethics consultation data contained in a research registry approved by the institutional review board at California Pacific Medical Center. Setting and Participants This study analyzes research registry data from a large community hospital in Northern California that serves patients from California, Oregon, and Nevada. The registry data are derived from transplant ethics consultations occurring between January 1, 2007, and June 30, 2009. Main Outcome Measure This study explores the restriction of access to transplantation and of participation in living donation. Results More than a quarter of all transplant ethics consultation reports described the restriction of transplant-related treatment for reasons rooted in finance or insurance. Individuals on the recipient side and on the donor side were hindered with regard to access. Insurance status and personal ability to pay significantly affect access to transplantation in the United States, and this theme is a frequent feature of ethics consultations at California Pacific Medical Center.

Belfast, a maritime city straddling the River Lagan, has in the last decade responded to the challenge of a derelict waterfront. It has done so against a backcloth of conflict and violence. Today a transformed waterfront is an integral aspect of a city promoting itself with confidence. Whilst the scale of development is not that of Berlin’s Potsdamer Platz Belfast’s Laganside initiative is now attracting international interest as an example of how to implement regeneration. This is in a context where it is increasingly recognised that issues of social exclusion and cultural diversity must also be addressed. In Berlin and Belfast the challenge is to build a shared future. How is this to be achieved? Does new development accentuate or accommodate diversity? Can a balance be achieved between promoting an international image for the city and respecting local history and culture?