bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Immunomodulatory Activities of Dendrophthoe falcata (L.f) Ettingsh in Experimental Animals: In vitro and In vivo Investigations
Authors: Pattanayak S. P. , Mazumder P. M.
Published: September 2011

In the present study, an attempt was made to screen immunomodulatory activity of the hydroalcoholic extract (HEDF) of Dendrophthoe falcata (L.f.) Ettingsh (Loranthaceae), an Indian Ayurvedic plant, on different arms of the immune system. HEDF was evaluated for immunological function by studying delayed type hypersensitivity (DTH) to sheep RBCs, nitric oxide (NO) release from murine peritoneal macrophages, phagocytic activity of polymorphonuclear (PMN) cells in vitro and reticuloendothelial system in vivo, plaque forming cell response of splenic lymphocytes to sheep erythrocytes, haemagglutination antibody titer and neutrophil adhesion test. Significant increase in NO production by mouse peritoneal macrophages was detected in culture supernatants indicated increased phagocytic activity of macrophages. After post oral administration of HEDF in three doses of 250, 475 and 950 mg/kg body weight, a significant increase in phagocytic activity of PMN cells/reticuloendothelial system, stimulation of neutrophil function and splenic antibody secreting cells, were also noticed. Stimulation of humoral immune response was further observed with elevation in haemagglutination antibody titer. Heightened DTH reaction suggested convincing evidence for activation of cellular immune system. Present study thus confirms the immunomodulatory activity of the hydroalcoholic extract of D. falcata and the immunomodulatory responses were found to be dose dependent manner.Keywords: Dendrophthoe falcata; Antibody titer; Neutrophil adhesion; Phagocytic activity.© 2011 JSR Publications. ISSN: 2070-0237 (Print); 2070-0245 (Online). All rights reserved.doi:10.3329/jsr.v3i3.7655               J. Sci. Res. 3 (3), 629-640 (2011)
Évolutions locales de l'industrie 1982-1992 et convergence régionale
Authors: Maurel Françoise
Published: September 2011

Évolutions locales de l'industrie 1982-1992 et convergence régionale par Françoise Maurel

À partir de données sectorielles et régionales, cet article étudie l'influence des caractéristiques passées et présentes de l'industrie et plus généralement de l' environnement des entreprises sur la croissance locale de l'emploi entre 1 982 et 1 992, dans différents secteurs industriels. L'analyse menée à partir du modèle classique de convergence conditionnelle confirme dans un premier temps la faiblesse du processus de convergence de l'emploi entre zones géographiques. Ceci conduit à rechercher des facteurs explicatifs de la persistance des disparités locales. Parmi les facteurs d'agglomération mis en évidence, tant le niveau local du capital humain que des facteurs propres au tissu industriel se révèlent significatifs dans l'explication de la croissance de l'emploi des secteurs, relativement à leur niveau initial. Les résultats empiriques obtenus valident également l'importance des économies de localisation en faisant notamment de la concurrence locale un facteur de croissance des industries, ainsi qu'un facteur de convergence.
Équilibre approximatif et règle intuitive : une application aux appels d'offres dans l'industrie spatiale
Authors: Armantier Olivier , Florens Jean-Pierre , Richard Jean-François
Published: September 2011

Approximate Equilibrium and an Intuitive Rule: An Application to Bid Tenders in the Space Industry by Olivier Armantier, Jean- Pierre Florens and Jean-François Richard

In this article, we adopt the notion of approximate equilibrium obtained from an "intuitive rule." The notion is based on the idea that, instead of complex Nash equilibrium strategies, agents use simple decision-making rules based on intuition and common sense. We apply this concept to data on the space industry and we come up with two main findings: (1) the equilibrium obtained with our "intuitive rule" provides a good approximation of the Nash equilibrium; (2) an "intuitive rule" enables us to approximate the Nash equilibrium with an unknown structural form in a complex game.
Une approche empirique de la structure du marché du travail : salaires, formes de mobilité et formation professionnelle continue
Authors: Hanchane Saïd , Joutard Xavier
Published: September 2011

Une approche empirique de la structure du marché du travail : salaires, formes de mobilité et formation

professionnelle continue par Sa'id Hanchane et Xavier Joutard

Pour étudier la structure du marché du travail français, on propose une approche multisectorielle mêlant deux critères : les formes de mobilité et le passage par des stages de formation continue financés par l'entreprise. L'estimation de fonctions de gains laisse apparaître des relations salariales distinctes entre les régimes et confirme la transformation des marchés internes français. Afin d'échapper à l'une des critiques adressées aux tests de segmentation, nous relâchons l'hypothèse d'indépendance des alternatives non pertinentes. L'usage de modèles Logit emboîtés discriminés à l'aide du test de Vuong (1989) nous permet de repérer la disposition qui ajuste le mieux les données. Les résultats montrent que l'existence ou non de la formation continue signalerait la présence d'une segmentation.
Early Management of Newly Diagnosed Rheumatoid Arthritis by Canadian Rheumatologists: A National, Multicenter, Retrospective Cohort
Authors: TAVARES RUBEN , POPE JANET E. , TREMBLAY JEAN-LUC , THORNE CARTER , BYKERK VIVIAN P. , LAZOVSKIS JURIS , BLOCKA KENNETH L.N. , BELL MARY J. , LACAILLE DIANE , HITCHON CAROL A. , FITZGERALD AVRIL A. , FIDLER WESLEY K. , BOOKMAN ARTHUR A.M. , HENDERSON JAMES M. , MOSHER DIANNE P. , SHOLTER DALTON E. , KHRAISHI MAJED , HARAOUI BOULOS , CHEN HONG , LI XIUYING , LAUPACIS ANDREAS , BOIRE GILLES , TOMLINSON GEORGE , BOMBARDIER CLAIRE
Published: September 2011

Objective.

To describe early rheumatologic management for newly diagnosed rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in Canada.

Methods.

A retrospective cohort of 339 randomly selected patients with RA diagnosed from 2001–2003 from 18 rheumatology practices was audited between 2005–2007.

Results.

The most frequent initial disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARD) included hydroxychloroquine (55.5%) and methotrexate (40.1%). Initial therapy with multiple DMARD (15.6%) or single DMARD and corticosteroid combinations (30.7%) was infrequent. Formal assessment measures were noted infrequently, including the Health Assessment Questionnaire (34.6%) and Disease Activity Score for 28 joints (8.9%).

Conclusion.

Initial pharmacotherapy is consistent with guidelines from the period. The infrequent reporting of multiple DMARD combinations and formal assessment measures has implications for current clinical management and warrants contemporary reassessment.
Serum Hepcidin: A Direct Link Between Anemia of Inflammation and Coronary Artery Atherosclerosis in Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: ABDEL-KHALEK MANAL ALY , EL-BARBARY AMAL MOHAMAD , ESSA SALWA ABDEL-MONEIM , GHOBASHI ABEER SAEED
Published: September 2011

Objective.

To investigate the role of hepcidin as an inducer of anemia of inflammation in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), and its correlation to coronary artery atherosclerosis.

Methods.

Our study included 60 patients with RA and 20 healthy controls. Anemic RA patients with serum transferrin receptors/log ferritin (sTfR-F) index value < 1.5 were classified as having pure anemia of chronic disease (ACD), and patients with sTfR-F index value > 1.5 were classified as having anemia of chronic disease with coexistent iron deficiency anemia (ACD+IDA). Measurements were taken for Disease Activity Score for 28 joints (DAS28), Modified Health Assessment Questionnaire (MHAQ), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), high sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP), rheumatoid factor (RF), lipid profile, serum interleukin 6 (IL-6), tumor necrosis factor-α, iron studies, and serum hepcidin. Coronary calcium score (CCS) was measured using multislice spiral computed tomography as a marker of atherosclerosis.

Results.

Serum hepcidin was found to be higher in anemic patients with RA than in controls (p < 0.001), and higher in the pure ACD subgroup than in the ACD+IDA subgroup (p < 0.001). Hepcidin concentration was positively correlated with disease duration, ESR, hsCRP, RF, DAS28, MHAQ, serum ferritin, IL-6, and mean CCS and inversely correlated with hemoglobin, sTfR, and the sTfR-F index.

Conclusion.

Hepcidin can be considered a key inducer of anemia of inflammation in patients with RA. This inflammation was proved to be directly linked to coronary artery atherosclerosis. The correlations between serum hepcidin with disease activity and IL-6 raise the possibility of using it as a surrogate marker for disease activity.
Patterns of Magnetic Resonance Imaging Bone Erosion in Rheumatoid Arthritis — Which Bones Are Most Frequently Involved and Show the Most Change?: Figure 1.
Authors: ØSTERGAARD MIKKEL , MØLLER DØHN UFFE , DUER-JENSEN ANNE , HETLAND MERETE LUND , HØRSLEV-PETERSEN KIM , STENGAARD-PEDERSEN KRISTIAN , JUNKER PETER , PØDENPHANT JAN , EJBJERG BO
Published: September 2011

Objective.

To investigate by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) which bones in wrists and metacarpophalangeal (MCP) joints most frequently show bone erosions, and which most frequently demonstrate erosive progression, in early and established rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

Methods.

MRI datasets from 258 RA patients [126 with early RA (disease duration < 6 months)] were analyzed, of whom 223, including 126 with early RA, had 1-year followup MRI. All patients had MRI of one wrist, whereas 86 patients had additional images of 2nd–5th MCP joints, and 46 patients additional images of the contralateral wrist. MRI were evaluated blinded by one reader, according to the OMERACT RA MRI scoring system (RAMRIS) for erosions, and presence/absence of erosions was noted in each bone, as was presence/absence of erosive progression.

Results.

The capitate, ulna, lunate, triquetrum, and scaphoid were the 5 bones with both most frequent baseline erosions and most frequently demonstrated erosive progression. No bones were without erosions. Patterns of erosions and progression were similar in early and established RA. No major difference between dominant and nondominant wrists was detected. In the fingers, the 2nd–3rd MCP joint most frequently displayed erosions and erosive progression.

Conclusion.

The distribution and frequency of bone erosion and erosive progression as detected by MRI in RA wrists and MCP joints were identified. No pattern differences between early versus established disease and dominant versus nondominant sides were detected. No bones showed erosive progression. Thus, no self-evident simplification of the RAMRIS erosion score was identified. Bone involvement patterns may be considered, when joints are selected for MRI protocols for clinical trials and practice.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Rheumatoid Arthritis Clinical Trials: Emerging Patterns Based on Recent Experience
Authors: PETERFY CHARLES G. , COUNTRYMAN PETER , GABRIELE ANNARITA , SHAW TIM , ANISFELD ANDREW , TSUJI WAYNE , OLECH EWA , GAYLIS NORMAN B. , CONAGHAN PHILIP G. , STRAND VIBEKE , DICARLO JULIE
Published: September 2011

Objective.

The current validated magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scoring method for rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in clinical trials, RA MRI Score (RAMRIS), incorporates all metacarpophalangeal (MCP) and wrist joints except MCP-1. The experience with radiographic scoring, however, was that excluding certain bones in the wrist improved the discriminative power for changes over time. In this study, we pool MRI data from randomized controlled clinical trails (RCT) to determine which combination of MCP and wrist joints are most sensitive and discriminative for structural changes over time.

Methods.

MR images from 4 multicenter RCT, including 522 RA patients, were read by 2 radiologists, using the RAMRIS scoring system for erosion, osteitis, and synovitis. In one RCT, joint-space narrowing (JSN) was assessed cross-sectionally by one radiologist using a previously validated method. Baseline frequencies of erosion, JSN, osteitis, and synovitis of different bones and joints in the hand and wrist were compared. Intraclass correlation coefficients between readers were determined for each location. Finally, 7 different combinations of bone/joint locations were compared for their ability to discriminate subjects showing increases or decreases from baseline greater than or equal to smallest detectable changes (SDC) at Weeks 12 or 24.

Results.

Frequency of involvement and reliability for assessing change varied by location. As in earlier analyses, excluding certain wrist bones increased the percentage of subjects showing changes greater than or equal to SDC.

Conclusion.

These findings suggest that excluding wrist bones that do not frequently or reliably demonstrate structural changes improves the discriminative power of the RAMRIS scoring system.
Predictors of Pressure Ulcers in Adult Critical Care Patients
Authors: Cox Jill
Published: September 2011

Background

Pressure ulcers are one of the most underrated conditions in critically ill patients. Despite the introduction of clinical practice guidelines and advances in medical technology, the prevalence of pressure ulcers in hospitalized patients continues to escalate. Currently, consensus is lacking on the most important risk factors for pressure ulcers in critically ill patients, and no risk assessment scale exclusively for pressure ulcers in these patients is available.

Objective

To determine which risk factors are most predictive of pressure ulcers in adult critical care patients. Risk factors investigated included total score on the Braden Scale, mobility, activity, sensory perception, moisture, friction/shear, nutrition, age, blood pressure, length of stay in the intensive care unit, score on the Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation II, vasopressor administration, and comorbid conditions.

Methods

A retrospective, correlational design was used to examine 347 patients admitted to a medical-surgical intensive care unit from October 2008 through May 2009.

Results

According to direct logistic regression analyses, age, length of stay, mobility, friction/shear, norepinephrine infusion, and cardiovascular disease explained a major part of the variance in pressure ulcers.

Conclusion

Current risk assessment scales for development of pressure ulcers may not include risk factors common in critically ill adults. Development of a risk assessment model for pressure ulcers in these patients is warranted and could be the foundation for development of a risk assessment tool.
A Simple and Sensitive Assay for Measuring Very Small Volumes of Microprinted Solutions
Authors: Sokolik Charles W. , Walker Annie S. , Nishioka Gary M.
Published: September 2011

This study describes an extremely sensitive and simple assay to measure small volumes of solutions, <1 nL. The assay takes advantage of the Sandell-Kolthoff reaction in which yellow cerium(IV) is reduced to colorless cerium(III) in the presence of arsenic(III) and catalytic quantities of iodide ion. The reaction is linear with respect to the rate of Ce(IV) reduction and the quantity of I–present. Typical assays can measure 10-100 picomoles of iodide in a sample. When I–is substituted for chloride ion in standard biological buffers, such as Tris-buffered saline, the assay can be used to determine the volume of solution printed in a microarray.
Physical and optical properties of 2010 Eyjafjallajökull volcanic eruption aerosol: ground-based, LIDAR and airborne measurements in France
Authors: Hervo M. , Quennehen B. , Kristiansen N. I. , Boulon J. , Stohl A. , Fréville P. , Pichon J. M. , Picard D. , Labazuy P. , Gouhier M. , Colomb A. , Schwarzenboeck A. , Sellegri K.
Published: September 2011

Abstract. During the Eyjafjallajökull eruption (14 April to 24 May 2010), the volcanic aerosol cloud was observed across Europe by several airborne in-situ and ground-based remote-sensing instruments. On 18 and 19 May, layers of depolarizing particles (i.e. non-spherical particles) were detected in the free troposphere above the Puy de Dôme station, (France) with a Rayleigh-Mie LIDAR emitting at a wavelength of 355 nm, with parallel and crossed polarization channels. These layers in the free troposphere (FT) were also well captured by simulations with the Lagrangian particle dispersion model FLEXPART, which furthermore showed that the ash was eventually entrained into the planetary boundary layer (PBL). Indeed, the ash cloud was then detected and characterized with a comprehensive set of in-situ instruments at the Puy de Dôme station (PdD). In agreement with the FLEXPART simulation, up to 65 μg m−3 of particle mass and 2.2 ppb of SO2 were measured at PdD, corresponding to concentrations higher than the 95 percentile of 2 years of measurements at PdD. Moreover, the number concentration of particles increased to 24 000 cm−3, mainly in the submicronic mode, but a supermicronic mode was also detected at 2 μm. The resulting optical properties of the ash aerosol were characterized by a low Ångström exponent (1.1), showing the dominance of supermicronic particles. For the first time to our knowledge, the combination of in-situ optical and physical characterization of the volcanic ash allowed the calculation of the mass-to-extinction ratio (η) with no assumptions on the aerosol density, which was found to be significantly different from the background boundary layer aerosol (max: 1.42 g m−2 as opposed to 0.27 ± 0.03 g m−2). Using this ratio, ash mass concentration in the volcanic plume derived from LIDAR measurements was found to be 700 ± 25 μg m−3 when the plume was located in the FT (3000 m a.s.l. – above sea level). This ratio could also be used to retrieve an aerosol mass concentration of 523 ± 54 μg m−3 on 19 April, when LIDAR observations detected the ash cloud at 3000 m a.s.l. in correspondence with model simulations (FLEXPART). On 22 April, another ash plume entered the BL, and although it was more diluted than during the May episode, the French research aircraft ATR42 that passed over Clermont-Ferrand in the PBL confirmed the presence of particles with a supermicronic mode, again centred on a diameter of 2 μm. This data set combining airborne, ground-based and remote sensing observations with dispersion model simulations shows an overall very good coherence during the volcanic eruption period, which allows a good confidence in the characteristics of the ash particles that can be derived from this unique data set.
A web service based tool to plan atmospheric research flights
Authors: Rautenhaus M. , Bauer G. , Dörnbrack A.
Published: September 2011

Abstract. We present a web service based tool for the planning of atmospheric research flights. The tool provides online access to horizontal maps and vertical cross-sections of numerical weather prediction data and in particular allows the interactive design of a flight route in direct relation to the predictions. It thereby fills a crucial gap in the set of currently available tools for using data from numerical atmospheric models for research flight planning. A distinct feature of the tool is its lightweight, web service based architecture, requiring only commodity hardware and a basic Internet connection for deployment. Access to visualisations of prediction data is achieved by using an extended version of the Open Geospatial Consortium Web Map Service (WMS) standard, a technology that has gained increased attention in meteorology in recent years. With the WMS approach, we avoid the transfer of large forecast model output datasets while enabling on-demand generated visualisations of the predictions at campaign sites with limited Internet bandwidth. Usage of the Web Map Service standard also enables access to third-party sources of georeferenced data. We have implemented the software using the open-source programming language Python. In the present article, we describe the architecture of the tool. As an example application, we discuss a case study research flight planned for the scenario of the 2010 Eyjafjalla volcano eruption. Usage and implementation details are provided as Supplement.
Hydrogeology and hydrogeochemistry of an alkaline volcanic area: the NE Mt. Meru slope (East African Rift – Northern Tanzania)
Authors: Ghiglieri G. , Pittalis D. , Cerri G. , Oggiano G.
Published: September 2011

Abstract. The objective of this study is to analyze the geochemical conditions associated with the presence of fluoride (F−) in the groundwater of an area of Northern Tanzania. The studied aquifers are composed of volcanic rocks such as phonolitic and nephelinitic lavas, basalts, lahars of various ages and mantling ash. Sedimentary rocks consisting of fine-grained alluvial and lacustrine deposits occur as well. Samples collected from springs, borehole and surface water, during two monitoring surveys, were analyzed for the various physico-chemical and isotopic parameters. The geochemical composition of water is typically sodium bicarbonate. High values of F− (up to 68 mg l−1) were recorded. The highest values of fluoride agreed with the highest values of pH, sodium and bicarbonate. Dissolution of major ions, exchange processes and precipitation of Ca2+ from super-saturated solutions joined with the local permeability and hydraulic gradients, control the fluoride mobilization and the contamination of the area.
Detection of the 2010 Chilean tsunami using satellite altimetry
Authors: Hamlington B. D. , Leben R. R. , Godin O. A. , Legeais J. F. , Gica E. , Titov V. V.
Published: September 2011

Abstract. Tsunamis are difficult to detect and measure in the open ocean because the wave amplitude is much smaller than it is closer to shore. An effective early warning system, however, must be able to observe an impending tsunami threat far away from the shore in order to provide the necessary lead-time for coastal inhabitants to find safety. Given the expansiveness of the ocean, sensors capable of detecting the tsunami must also have very broad areal coverage. The 2004 Sumatra-Andaman tsunami was definitively detected in the open ocean from both sea surface height and sea surface roughness measurements provided by satellite altimeters. This tsunami, however, was exceptionally strong and questions remain about the ability to use such measurements for the detection of weaker tsunamis. Here we study the 2010 Chilean tsunami and demonstrate the ability to detect the tsunami in the open ocean. Specifically, we analyze the utility of filtering in extracting the tsunami signal from sea surface height measurements, and, through the use of statistical analyses of satellite altimeter observations, we demonstrate that the 2010 Chilean tsunami induced distinct and detectable changes in sea surface roughness. While satellite altimeters do not provide the temporal and spatial coverage necessary to form the basis of an effective early warning system, tsunami-induced changes in sea surface roughness can be detected using orbiting microwave radars and radiometers, which have a broad surface coverage across the satellite ground track.
Immunohistochemical Study of Correlation Between Histologic Subtype and Expression of Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition-Related Proteins in Synovial Sarcomas
Authors: Subramaniam Manish Mani , Navarro Samuel , Llombart-Bosch Antonio
Published: September 2011

Context.—Synovial sarcomas are mesenchymal tumors with epithelial nature and comprise biphasic and monophasic fibrous subtypes. However, factors determining epithelial or spindle cell differentiation are still unexplored. Aberrant epithelial-mesenchymal transition has been implicated in the pathogenesis of diverse human malignancies.

Objective.—To analyze the correlation between cellular phenotype and expression of proteins associated with different epithelial-mesenchymal transition-related pathways.

Design.—Immunohistochemical analysis of E-cadherin, Snail, Slug, and dysadherin, components of the Wnt/wingless and PI3K/Akt pathways, was performed on 14 biphasic and 27 monophasic fibrous tumors.

Results.—In monophasic fibrous tumors, increased expression of Snail (17 of 27; 63%), Slug (18 of 27; 67%), and dysadherin (14 of 27; 52%) and activation of Wnt (nucleocytoplasmic β-catenin accumulation in 63%; n  =  27; and positive expression of GSK3 and pGSK3 in 24 of 27 [89%] and 21 of 27 [78%], respectively) and PI3K/Akt (Akt: 22 of 27 [81%]; pAkt: 25 of 27 [93%]; and PI3K: 20 of 27 [74%]) signaling correlated significantly with inactivated E-cadherin expression (1 of 27; 4%) (all P < .05). In contrast, preserved E-cadherin expression (12 of 14; 86%) in the glandular component of the biphasic subtype was associated with significantly decreased Snail (3 of 14; 21%) (P  =  .02) and dysadherin (2 of 14; 14%) expression (P < .001).

Conclusions.—Overexpression of Snail, Slug, and dysadherin and activation of Wnt and PI3K/Akt signaling was associated with inactivated E-cadherin in the spindle cells of monophasic fibrous synovial sarcomas, further supporting the hypothesis that this subtype may have developed through neoplastic epithelial-mesenchymal transition.
Clinical Performance of a Human Papillomavirus Messenger RNA Test (Aptima HPV Assay) on Residual Material From Archived 3-Year-Old PreservCyt Samples With Low-Grade Squamous Intraepithelial Lesion
Authors: Waldstrøm Marianne , Ørnskov Dorthe
Published: September 2011

Context.—Human papillomavirus (HPV) testing is widely used in the triage of women with a borderline smear result but the efficiency of testing women with low-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (LSIL) is less clear, mainly because of lack of specificity. New HPV tests are emerging, which detect E6/E7messenger RNA (mRNA), and preliminary data suggest that they might have a higher specificity. However, mRNA is less stable than DNA, thus posing a challenge to the preservation abilities of the cell-collecting medium.

Objective.—To evaluate the clinical performance of an HPV mRNA assay on 3-year-old archived liquid-based samples, all with a diagnosis of LSIL.

Design.—The residual material from old archived PreservCyt samples from 442 women were tested with the Aptima HPV Assay, which detects E6/E7 mRNA from 14 high-risk HPV types. The samples had been stored at room temperature without any further handling.

Results.—Follow-up was available for 405 women, 67 of whom had histologic confirmed cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) 2+ and 31 with CIN 3+. The sensitivity and specificity for the mRNA assay was 92.5% and 38.2%, respectively, for detecting CIN 2+, and 93.9% and 35.5%, respectively, for detecting CIN 3+. When evaluating separately the performance of the test for women younger than 30 years and for women 30 years or older, the sensitivity was found to be similar in the 2 groups, but the specificity was significantly lower for the younger women.

Conclusion.—Messenger RNA is well preserved in old archived PreservCyt samples. Triaging women with LSIL, using the Aptima HPV Assay, seems to be effective with a good sensitivity and a good specificity, especially for women 30 years or older.
Validity of two new patient‐reported outcome measures in systemic sclerosis: Patient‐reported outcomes measurement information system 29‐item health profile and functional assessment of chronic illness therapy–dyspnea short form
Authors: Hinchcliff Monique , Beaumont Jennifer L. , Thavarajah Krishna , Varga John , Chung Anh , Podlusky Sofia , Carns Mary , Chang Rowland W. , Cella David
Published: September 2011

Objective

Many patient‐reported outcome (PRO) instruments used in systemic sclerosis (SSc) trials are limited by lack of validation, licensing fees, and complicated scoring systems. We assessed the construct validity for discriminative purposes of 2 new PRO instruments, the Patient‐Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System 29‐item Health Profile (PROMIS‐29) and the Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy–Dyspnea short form (FACIT‐Dyspnea), measuring health status and dyspnea in SSc patients.

Methods

Seventy‐three patients participated in a cross‐sectional study at a tertiary SSc program. PROMIS‐29, FACIT‐Dyspnea, and legacy PRO instruments used in clinical trials (Medical Research Council Dyspnea Score, St. George's Respiratory Questionnaire, Health Assessment Questionnaire disability index, and Short Form 36) were administered. Composite severity scores using an adaptation of the Medsger Disease Severity Index were generated using clinical, diagnostic, and laboratory information. PROMIS‐29 and FACIT‐Dyspnea scores were compared with legacy PRO measures and composite severity scores.

Results

The mean patient age (84% women) was 51 years (range 22–72 years). The mean SSc disease duration from the onset of the first non–Raynaud's phenomenon symptom was 7.2 years (range 0–45 years). Spearman's correlation coefficients across FACIT‐Dyspnea and PROMIS physical functioning scores with legacy PRO instruments were generally high (range 0.50–0.86); those between PROMIS and FACIT‐Dyspnea with composite disease severity scores were more modest, but statistically significant (range 0.33–0.48, P < 0.01).

Conclusion

PROMIS‐29 and FACIT‐Dyspnea are valid instruments to measure the health status of SSc patients. PROMIS‐29 and FACIT‐Dyspnea may be preferable to legacy instruments because they are freely available in multiple languages and simple to administer, score, and interpret.
Influence of foot positions on the spine and pelvis
Authors: Betsch Marcel , Schneppendahl Johannes , Dor Larissa , Jungbluth Pascal , Grassmann Jan Peter , Windolf Joachim , Thelen Simon , Hakimi Mohssen , Rapp Walter , Wild Michael
Published: September 2011

Objective

The management of knee osteoarthritis includes the use of wedged shoe insoles to unload the affected knee compartment. Although the biomechanical effects of shoe insoles on the knee joint are known and described, only little is known about their influence on the pelvis and spine. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of different foot positions, such as how they could be achieved by shoe insoles, on pelvic position and spinal posture.

Methods

A total of 51 test subjects were measured for this study. The different foot positions (inner and outer margin increase, positive and negative heel height) were simulated with a specially designed stand platform. A rasterstereographic device was used to measure the immediate effects of the simulated foot positions on the pelvic position and spinal posture.

Results

Positive and negative heel heights as well as an increase of the outer margin of the platform led to significant changes of the pelvic tilt. The pelvic torsion also changed significantly during positive heel height changes of 10 and 15 mm and increases of the outer margin of the foot. No significant changes were found between foot position and spinal parameters.

Conclusion

The results of our study support the existence of a kinematic chain, where changes of foot position also led to significant alterations of the pelvic position. Whether these changes could lead to long‐term pathologic alterations still needs to be evaluated. However, in our setting, no correlation between foot position and spinal posture changes was found.
Association of larger holes in the trabecular bone at the distal radius in postmenopausal women with type 2 diabetes mellitus compared to controls
Authors: Pritchard Janet M. , Giangregorio Lora M. , Atkinson Stephanie A. , Beattie Karen A. , Inglis Dean , Ioannidis George , Punthakee Zubin , Adachi J. D. , Papaioannou Alexandra
Published: September 2011

Objective

Adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM) have an elevated fracture risk despite normal areal bone mineral density (aBMD). The study objective was to compare trabecular bone microarchitecture of postmenopausal women with type 2 DM and women without type 2 DM.

Methods

An extremity 1T magnetic resonance imaging system was used to acquire axial images (195 × 195 × 1,000 μm3 voxel size) of the distal radius of women recruited from outpatient clinics or by community advertisement. Image segmentation yielded geometric, topologic, and stereologic outcomes, i.e., number and size of trabecular bone network holes (marrow spaces), endosteal area, trabecular bone volume fraction, nodal and branch density, and apparent trabecular thickness, separation, and number. Lumbar spine (LS) and proximal femur BMD were measured with dual x‐ray absorptiometry. Microarchitectural differences were assessed using linear regression and adjusted for percent body fat, ethnicity, timed up‐and‐go test, Charlson Index, and calcium and vitamin D intake; aBMD differences were adjusted for body mass index (BMI).

Results

Women with type 2 DM (n = 30, mean ± SD age 71.0 ± 4.8 years) had larger holes (+13.3%; P = 0.001) within the trabecular bone network than women without type 2 DM (n = 30, mean ± SD age 70.7 ± 4.9 years). LS aBMD was greater in women with type 2 DM; however, after adjustment for BMI, LS aBMD did not differ between groups.

Conclusion

In women with type 2 DM, the average hole size within the trabecular bone network at the distal radius is greater compared to controls. This may explain the elevated fracture risk in this population.
Effect of a six‐week walking program on work place activity limitations among adults with arthritis
Authors: Nyrop Kirsten A. , Charnock Brian L. , Martin Kathryn R. , Lias Jennifer , Altpeter Mary , Callahan Leigh F.
Published: September 2011

Objective

To conduct an exploratory evaluation of the impact of the Arthritis Foundation's evidence‐based Walk With Ease (WWE) program on work place activity limitations of adults with self‐reported or doctor‐diagnosed arthritis.

Methods

WWE participants who were self‐identified as “employed” completed the Workplace Activity Limitation Scale (WALS) at 6‐week (postintervention; n = 94) and 1‐year followup (n = 69). Paired t‐tests were used to determine whether reduced work place limitations were reported at 6 weeks and maintained at 1‐year followup.

Results

Participants were on average age 55 years, 88% women, and 61% white. The mean body mass index was 32 kg/m2, and 81% had more than a high school education. Overall WALS scores improved significantly from a mean ± SD of 6.7 ± 3.99 at baseline to 5.5 ± 4.20 at 6‐week followup (P < 0.001, effect size 0.30). Improvements were maintained at 1‐year followup, i.e., no change from 6‐week followup (P = 0.87). Work place activities reported by participants as “some” or “a lot” of difficulty at baseline, i.e., “crouch/bend/kneel/work in awkward positions,” “stand for long periods,” and “lift/carry/move objects,” showed some of the highest improvements at 6 weeks. “Concentrate/keep your mind on the job” also improved significantly, although it was not rated as a substantial difficulty at baseline.

Conclusion

Our study provides encouraging evidence that WWE, a brief, low‐cost, and easy‐to‐do community‐based walking program, may provide both immediate and sustained benefits for people with self‐reported arthritis who also report a range of work place limitations related to their arthritis symptoms.
Ovarian reserve diminished by oral cyclophosphamide therapy for granulomatosis with polyangiitis (Wegener's)
Authors: Clowse Megan E. B. , Copland Susannah C. , Hsieh Tsung‐Cheng , Chow Shein‐Chung , Hoffman Gary S. , Merkel Peter A. , Spiera Robert F. , Davis John C. , McCune W. Joseph , Ytterberg Steven R. , St.Clair E. William , Allen Nancy B. , Specks Ulrich , Stone John H. ,   WGET Research Group
Published: September 2011

Objective

Standard treatment for severe granulomatosis with polyangiitis (Wegener's) (GPA) is daily oral cyclophosphamide (CYC), a cytotoxic agent associated with ovarian failure. In this study, we assessed the rate of diminished ovarian reserve in women with GPA who received CYC versus methotrexate (MTX).

Methods

Patients in the Wegener's Granulomatosis Etanercept Trial received either daily CYC or weekly MTX and were randomized to etanercept or placebo. For all women ages <50 years, plasma samples taken at baseline or early in the study were evaluated against samples taken later in the study to compare levels of anti‐Müllerian hormone (AMH) and follicle‐stimulating hormone (FSH), endocrine markers of remaining egg supply. Diminished ovarian reserve was defined as an AMH level of <1.0 ng/ml.

Results

Of 42 women in this analysis (mean age 35 years), 24 had CYC exposure prior to enrollment and 28 received the drug during the study. At study entry, women with prior CYC exposure had significantly lower AMH, higher FSH, and a higher rate of early menstruation cessation. For women with normal baseline ovarian function, 6 of 8 who received CYC during the trial developed diminished ovarian reserve, compared to 0 of 4 who did not receive CYC (P < 0.05). Changes in AMH correlated inversely with cumulative CYC dose (P < 0.01), with a 0.74 ng/ml decline in AMH level for each 10 gm of CYC.

Conclusion

Daily oral CYC, even when administered for less than 6 months, causes diminished ovarian reserve, as indicated by low AMH levels. These data highlight the need for alternative treatments for GPA in women of childbearing age.
Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of Reticulated Titanium Scrolls
Authors: Hong Eunji , Ahn Bok Y. , Shoji Daisuke , Lewis Jennifer A. , Dunand David C.
Published: September 2011

Reticulated titanium scrolls are produced by printing titanium hydride lattices composed of two orthogonal layers of ink filaments, which are then rolled into cylinders and reduced to titanium upon partial vacuum sintering. The resulting three‐dimensional titanium scrolls contain a hierarchical pore size distribution composed of macroporosity between patterned filaments and micropores within each filament. These reticulated architectures exhibit an attractive combination of stiffness, strength, and ductility when tested in uniaxial compression.
Length‐Scale Mediated Differential Adhesion of Mammalian Cells and Microbes
Authors: Wang Yi , Subbiahdoss Guruprakash , Swartjes Jan , van der Mei Henny C. , Busscher Henk J. , Libera Matthew
Published: September 2011

Surfaces of implantable biomedical devices are increasingly engineered to promote their interactions with tissue. However, surfaces that stimulate desirable mammalian cell adhesion, spreading, and proliferation also enable microbial colonization. The biomaterials‐associated infection that can result is now a critical clinical problem. We have identified an important mechanism to create a surface that can simultaneously promote healing while reducing the probability of infection. Surfaces are created with submicrometer‐sized, non‐adhesive microgels patterned on an otherwise cell‐adhesive surface. Quantitative force measurements between a staphylococcus and a patterned surface show that the adhesion strength decreases significantly at inter‐gel spacings comparable to bacterial dimensions. Time‐resolved flow‐chamber measurements show that the microbial deposition rate dramatically decreases at these same spacings. Importantly, the adhesion and spreading of osteoblast‐like cells is preserved despite the sub‐cellular non‐adhesive surface features. Since such length‐scale‐mediated differential interactions do not rely on antibiotics, this mechanism can be particularly significant in mitigating biomaterials‐associated infection by antibiotic‐resistant bacteria such as MRSA.
Ultrafast Direct Ablative Patterning of HOPG by Single Laser Pulses to Produce Graphene Ribbons
Authors: Kurra Narendra , Sagade Abhay A. , Kulkarni Giridhar U.
Published: September 2011

Ultrafast, single step and direct patterning of highly oriented pyrolytic graphite (HOPG) is achieved through pulsed laser interference ablation using a near field transmitting phase mask. Periodic arrays of lines are patterned on the HOPG surface over large areas by spatially modulating the laser intensity through the mask. Thus patterned surface serve as a source for multi and few layer graphene ribbons for transferring onto desired substrates using polydimethylsiloxane as transferring agent. The transferred regions are contained with few layer graphene (5–6 layers) ribbons as well as thick graphitic ribbons (30–40 nm), with widths ∼1 μm and lengths of several micrometers. Raman, TEM and electrical measurements have confirmed that the transferred ribbons are highly crystalline in nature. Using combinations of shadow and transmitting phase masks, other patterns such as checker boards and diamond‐shaped pits are produced.
Direct Observation of Ag Filamentary Paths in Organic Resistive Memory Devices
Authors: Cho Byungjin , Yun Jin‐Mun , Song Sunghoon , Ji Yongsung , Kim Dong‐Yu , Lee Takhee
Published: September 2011

We demonstrate bipolar switching of organic resistive memory devices consisting of Ag/polymer/heavily‐doped p‐type poly Si junctions in an 8 × 8 cross‐bar array structure. The bistable switching mechanism appears to be related to the formation and rupture of highly conductive paths, as shown by a direct observation of Ag metallic bridges using transmission electron microscopy and energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy. Current images of high‐ and low‐conducting states acquired by conducting atomic force microscopy also support this filamentary switching mechanism. The filamentary formation can be described by an electrochemical redox reaction model of Ag. Our results may also be applied to other kinds of organic materials presenting similar switching properties, contributing to the optimization of device scaling or memory performance improvement.
Enzymatic Synthesis of Enantiopure Precursors of Chiral Bidentate and Tridentate Phosphorus Catalysts
Authors: Kaczmarczyk Sylwia , Kwiatkowska Małgorzata , Madalińska Lidia , Barbachowska Agnieszka , Rachwalski Michał , Błaszczyk Jarosław , Sieroń Lesław , Kiełbasiński Piotr
Published: September 2011

The Candida antarctica lipase (CAL‐B)‐catalyzed acetylation of racemic 2‐hydroxymethylphenyl(methyl)phenylphosphine oxide, performed in diethyl ether, led to kinetic resolution with an unusually high enantioselectivity (E=3000). The CAL‐B‐mediated desymmetrization of prochiral bis(2‐hydroxymethylphenyl)methylphosphine oxide gave, via its enantioselective monoacetylation, the corresponding monoacetate in 80% yield and with ee>98%. The latter transformation allowed us to efficiently transform the prochiral substrate into the enantiomerically pure product in one single step. In both cases the stereogenic or prostereogenic phosphorus atom and the reacting hydroxy oxygen are distant from each other by four bonds. The absolute configurations of all the products were determined by a chemical correlation and X‐ray analysis. The products will be used as enantiopure substrates in the preparation of a variety of chiral organophosphorus ligands/catalysts for asymmetric synthesis.
L‐Amino Acid Amides via Dynamic Kinetic Resolution
Authors: Tessaro Davide , Cerioli Lorenzo , Servi Stefano , Viani Fiorenza , D'Arrigo Paola
Published: September 2011

Racemic natural and non‐natural N‐Boc‐amino acid thioesters undergo enzyme‐catalyzed ammoniolysis and aminolysis with concomitant base‐catalyzed racemization of the non‐transformed D‐enantiomer with the formation of the corresponding L‐amides in good yields and excellent enantiomeric purity all above 98% ee. This is the first example of a dynamic kinetic resolution of amino acid derivatives with amides formation.
Brief communication: Two‐rooted lower Canines—A European trait and sensitive indicator of admixture across Eurasia
Authors: Lee Christine , Scott G. Richard
Published: September 2011

With the exception of Carabelli's trait, the European dentition is better known for the morphological traits that it does not exhibit rather than the ones that it does. One root trait, however, runs counter to the characterization of reduced and simplified European crowns and roots. Although a rare trait in general, two‐rooted lower canines are much more common in Europeans than in any other regional grouping and, given adequate sample sizes, can be useful in evaluating gene flow between Europeans and neighboring groups. In European samples, two‐rooted lower canines consistently exhibit frequencies of 5–8%. In our sample from northern Spain, the trait attains a frequency of almost 10%. In contrast, in Sub‐Saharan Africans the trait is virtually unknown while in Asian and Asian‐derived populations, it varies between 0.0 and 1.0%. Here we show that two‐rooted canine frequencies for new migrants along the western frontiers of China and Mongolia ranged from 0–4%. These data suggest European‐derived populations migrated into western China (Xinjiang Province) and Mongolia (Bayan Olgii Aimag) sometime during the late Bronze age (1000–400 BCE). Am J Phys Anthropol, 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Case report of orbital violation with placement of ethmoid drug‐eluting stent
Authors: Villari Craig R. , Wojno Ted J. , DelGaudio John M.
Published: September 2011

Background

Delivery of topical therapy is a mainstay in the treatment of chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS). Ethmoid sinus stenting has recently been introduced as a minimally invasive mechanism to deliver medication. We review available literature on ethmoid stenting and present a case report involving orbital violation and a fixed, dilated pupil.

Methods

Case report and literature review.

Results

A 37 year‐old female underwent endoscopic placement of bilateral ethmoid sinus drug‐eluting stents for CRS at an outside facility. Postoperatively she complained of right‐sided ocular pain and pressure. She was seen in the emergency setting on post‐operative day (POD) 2 and had a dilated right pupil. A computed tomography (CT) scan was performed and read as normal. The left stent was removed successfully on POD 19; the right could not be removed in the outpatient setting secondary to pain. The patient was transferred to our facility on POD 21. The CT from POD 2 was reviewed and demonstrated violation of the lamina papyracea and orbit with the stent abutting the lateral orbital wall. On POD 24, the patient underwent medial orbital decompression and successful stent removal but continues to have a dilated pupil in the affected eye.

Conclusion

This is the first reported case of orbital violation with placement of an ethmoid drug‐eluting stent. The literature shows feasibility in cadaveric studies but the practitioner must be diligent in placement. Ethmoid sinus stenting is an option for topical treatment of ethmoid sinusitis but practitioners must be cognizant of potential risks when counseling patients. © 2011 ARS‐AAOA, LLC.
Novel magnetic nanoparticles for the hydrolysis of starch with Bacillus licheniformis α‐amylase
Authors: Uygun Deniz Aktaş , Öztürk Nevra , Akgöl Sinan , Denizli Adil
Published: September 2011

Novel magnetic nanoparticles with an average size of 350–400 nm with N‐methacryloyl‐(L)‐phenylalanine (MAPA) as a hydrophobic monomer were prepared by the surfactant‐free emulsion polymerization of 2‐hydroxyethyl methacrylate, MAPA, and magnetite in an aqueous dispersion medium. MAPA was synthesized from methacryloyl chloride and L‐phenylalanine methyl ester. The specific surface area of the nonporous magnetic nanoparticles was found to be 580 m2/g. Magnetic poly[2‐hydroxyethyl methacrylate–N‐methacryloyl‐(L)‐phenylalanine] nanoparticles were characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, electron spin resonance, atomic force microscopy, and transmission electron microscopy. Elemental analysis of MAPA for nitrogen was estimated as 4.3 × 10−3 mmol/g of nanoparticles. Then, magnetic nano‐poly[2‐hydroxyethyl methacrylate–N‐methacryloyl‐(L)‐phenylalanine] nanoparticles were used in the adsorption of Bacillus licheniformis α‐amylase in a batch system. With an optimized adsorption protocol, a very high loading of 705 mg of enzyme/g nanoparticles was obtained. The adsorption phenomena appeared to follow a typical Langmuir isotherm. The inverse of enzyme affinity for free amylase (181.82 mg/mL) was higher than that for immobilized enzyme (81.97 mg/mL). Storage stability was found to increase with adsorption. It was observed that the enzyme could be repeatedly adsorbed and desorbed without a significant loss in the adsorption amount or enzyme activity. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2012