bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cytotoxic T lymphocyte-Associated Antigen +49G Variant Confers Risk for Anti-CCP- and Rheumatoid Factor-Positive Type of Rheumatoid Arthritis Only in Combination with CT60∗G Allele
Authors: Farago Bernadett , Kisfali Peter , Magyari Lili , Polgar Noemi , Melegh Bela
Published: August 2009

Controversial observations have been published on the association of the cytotoxic T lymphocyte associated antigen gene's variants with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). After genotyping 428 patients and 230 matched controls, the prevalence of theCT60∗G allele was more frequent in RF- and/or anti-CCP-seropositive RApatients, compared to the healthy controls (P<.001). Regression analysis revealed that theCT60∗G allele is a possible predisposing factor for RA in these subgroups. No accumulation of the+49∗G allele was found among patients, and this variant was not found to correlate with RA. Assaying the possible genotype variations, the+49∗G-CT60∗G allelic combination was accumulated in seropositive RA-subtypes, and was associated with the risk of RA (OR=1.73,P=.001for the whole RA-population). Although the+49∗G allele did not mean a predisposition to RA alone, in combination withCT60∗G it, also conferred risk, suggesting that the+49A/Gvariant is associated with the risk of RA only in certain haplotypes.
Inducing a Stroop Effect
Authors: Pothos Emmanuel M. , Tapper Katy
Published: August 2009

We examine the conditions that lead to Stroop interference for a meaningless linguistic label. Tiffany's cognitive model of drug abuse implies that individuals will respond more slowly to drug‐related words compared to neutral words in an emotional Stroop task, because the former have many automatic associations (e.g. positive expectancies). To examine this proposal, we trained participants to associate a meaningless label with either one other word or several other words and examined the induced Stroop interference for these meaningless labels. In two experiments, and contrary to expectations from Tiffany's work, we observed greatest Stroop interference for the meaningless label with just one association. These results are discussed in terms of associative learning theory. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Nonlinear model predictive control for the polymorphic transformation ofL‐glutamic acid crystals
Authors: Hermanto Martin Wijaya , Chiu Min‐Sen , Braatz Richard D.
Published: August 2009

Polymorphism, a phenomenon where a substance can have more than one crystal forms, has recently become a major interest to the food, speciality chemical, and pharmaceutical industries. The different physical properties for polymorphs such as solubility, morphology, and dissolution rate may jeopardize operability or product quality, resulting in significant effort in controlling crystallization processes to ensure consistent production of the desired polymorph. Here, a nonlinear model predictive control (NMPC) strategy is developed for the polymorphic transformation ofL‐glutamic acid from the metastable α‐form to the stable β‐form crystals. The robustness of the proposed NMPC strategy to parameter perturbations is compared with temperature control (T‐control), concentration control (C‐control), and quadratic matrix control with successive linearization (SL‐QDMC). Simulation studies show that T‐control is the least robust, whereas C‐control performs very robustly but long batch times may be required. SL‐QDMC performs rather poorly even when there is no plant‐model mismatch due to the high process nonlinearity, rendering successive linearization inaccurate. The NMPC strategy shows good overall robustness for two different control objectives, which were both within 7% of their optimal values, while satisfying all constraints on manipulated and state variables within the specified batch time. © 2009 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 2009
Liquid–liquid two‐phase flow in pore array microstructured devices for scaling‐up of nanoparticle preparation
Authors: Li Shaowei , Xu Jianhong , Wang Yujun , Luo Guangsheng
Published: August 2009

Nanoparticles have been produced by a T‐junction microchannel device in our previous work (Li et al., Langmuir. 2008;24:4194‐4199). As a scaling‐up strategy, pore array microstructured devices were designed to prepare nanoparticles in this article. H2SO4 and BaCl2, respectively, in two phases to form BaSO4 nanoparticles was used as a test system. The characteristics of a well controlled liquid–liquid two‐phase flow in the pore array microstructured devices were presented. Nanoparticles with small size and good dispersibility were produced through drop or disk flows in the microstructured devices. The influence of mass transfer and chemical reaction on interfacial tension and flow patterns was discussed based on the experiments. Meanwhile, the effect of the two phase flow patterns on the nanoparticle size was discussed. It was found that the increase of the amount of mass transfer and chemical reaction could change the flow patterns from disk flow to drop flow. The droplet diameter could be changed in a wide range. Flow patterns could be distinguished based on the measured interfacial tension in different concentrations. The prepared nanoparticles were ranged from 10 nm to 30 nm. Apparently the particle size was decreased with the increase of the droplet size in both the drop flow region and the disk flow region whereas it had a reverse trend in the transition region. © 2009 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 2009
Bioorthogonale Chemie – oder: in einem Meer aus Funktionalität nach Selektivität fischen
Authors: Sletten Ellen M. , Bertozzi Carolyn R.
Published: August 2009

Biomoleküle in ihrer natürlichen Umgebung zu erforschen, ist wegen der enormen Komplexität zellulärer Systeme eine anspruchsvolle Aufgabe. In den letzten Jahren entwickelte Methoden zur selektiven Modifizierung biologischer Spezies in lebenden Systemen haben neue Einblicke in zelluläre Prozesse gegeben. Grundlage dieser neuen Techniken sind bioorthogonale chemische Reaktionen, deren Komponenten unter physiologischen Bedingungen in Gegenwart zahlreicher Funktionalitäten, wie sie zur Erhaltung des Lebens notwendig sind, schnell und selektiv miteinander reagieren müssen. Hier beschreiben wir die bisher entwickelten bioorthogonalen chemischen Reaktionen und wie sie zum Studium von Biomolekülen eingesetzt werden können.
Samariumdiiodid‐vermittelte Reaktionen in der Totalsynthese
Authors: Nicolaou K. C. , Ellery Shelby P. , Chen Jason S.
Published: August 2009

Samariumdiiodid (SmI2) hat nach seiner Einführung vor mehr als drei Jahrzehnten durch Henri Kagan zunehmend Verwendung in der chemischen Synthese gefunden. Dieses Ein‐Elektronen‐Reduktionsmittel ist besonders nützlich für C‐C‐Bindungsknüpfungen, wie sie unter anderem auch bei Totalsynthesen erforderlich sind. In diesem Aufsatz werden ausgewählte Anwendungsbeispiele von SmI2in der Totalsynthese vorgestellt, wobei neuartige Umwandlungen und mechanistische Überlegungen besonders hervorgehoben werden. Die hier erörterten Beispiele verdeutlichen die Wirksamkeit dieses Reagens beim Aufbau komplizierter Verbindungen und geben Anreize für die Entwicklung von Synthesestrategien für natürliche wie auch synthetische Verbindungen.
Samarium Diiodide Mediated Reactions in Total Synthesis
Authors: Nicolaou K. C. , Ellery Shelby P. , Chen Jason S.
Published: August 2009

Introduced by Henri Kagan more than three decades ago, samarium diiodide (SmI2) has found increasing application in chemical synthesis. This single‐electron reducing agent has been particularly useful in CC bond formations, including those found in total synthesis endeavors. This Review highlights selected applications of SmI2in total synthesis, with special emphasis on novel transformations and mechanistic considerations. The examples discussed are both illustrative of the power of this reagent in the construction of complex molecules and inspirational for the design of synthetic strategies toward such targets, both natural and designed.
Novel amine terminated elastomeric oligomers and their effects on properties of epoxy resins as a toughener
Authors: Özarslan Özdemir , Yıldız Emel , İnan Tülay Y. , Kuyulu Abdülkadir , Güngör Attila
Published: August 2009

The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of amine terminated elastomeric epoxy tougheners on the mechanical and thermal properties of diglycidyl ether of bisphenol A based epoxy resin. The amine terminated polycaprolactone (PCL) (1) and PCL‐PDMS‐PCL (2) based oligomers were synthesized and characterized by FTIR spectroscopy. The stoichiometrical amount of the reactive oligomers as toughener, reactive epoxy resin and the curing agent, 4,4′‐diaminodiphenyl sulfone (DDS) were mixed and degassed. The homogenous mixtures were cured at 120°C into the preheated molds. The mechanical and thermal characterizations of toughened epoxy resin system were evaluated. It has been shown that the mechanical and thermal properties of toughened epoxy system vary as a function of the chemical structure and the concentration of rective oligomers. Higher mechanical properties were obtained for epoxy resin toughened by PCL‐PDMS‐PCL (2) based oligomer. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2010
Synthesis and characterization of novel pour point depressants based on maleic anhydride‐alkyl acrylates terpolymers
Authors: El‐Ghazawy Rasha A. , Farag Reem K.
Published: August 2009

The (Docosanyl acrylate‐co‐(octadecyl or hexadecyl acrylate)‐co‐maleic anhydride) terpolymers were prepared using different compositions of the used alkyl acrylates (namely, 90 : 10, 70 : 30, 50 : 50, 30 : 70, and 10 : 90) (DCA‐ODA)/(MA) or (DCA‐HDA)/(MA). The efficiency of these terpolymers as pour point depressants was discussed. Two western desert waxy crude oils with different wax content were used for evaluation. Correlation between pour point depression efficiency and rheological properties were performed. Rheological parameters were also computed and discussed. It was observed that the synthesized terpolymers showed non‐Newtonian pseudoplastic relationships at different concentrations of synthesized terpolymeres with monomer feed ratios of (DCA‐ODA (1 : 1))/(MA) or (DCA‐HDA (1 : 1))/(MA) = 90/10 mole %. This ratio showed a good ability to disperse wax crystals and improve the flow behaviors of tested two crude oils even at low temperatures below their pour points. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2010
Synthesis, characterization, and thermo‐optical properties of azobenzene polyurethane containing chiral units
Authors: Qiu Fengxian , Zhang Wei , Yang Dongya , Zhao Minjian , Cao Guorong , Li Pingping
Published: August 2009

An optically active levoazobenzene polyurethane (PU) was synthesized and was based on the chromophore 4‐(4′‐nitrophenylazo) phenylamine, the chiral reagent L(−)‐tartaric acid, and toluene diisocyanate. The chemical structure and thermal properties were characterized by ultraviolet–visible spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, 1H‐NMR spectroscopy, and differential scanning calorimetry. The PU had high number‐ and weight‐average molecular weights up to 52 300, a large glass‐transition temperature of 235.7°C, and an optical rotation of −18.06°, The optical parameters, including the refractive index (n) and thermo‐optic coefficient (dn/dT); the dielectric constant (ϵ) and its variation with temperature; and the thermal volume expansion coefficient and its variation with temperature of PU were obtained. The dn/dT and ϵ values for the polymer were in the range −4.1200 to 3.6257 × 10−4 °C−1 and 2.00 ± 0.11, respectively. The dn/dT values were one order of magnitude larger than those of inorganic glasses, such as zinc silicate glass (5.5 × 10−6 °C−1) and borosilicate glass (4.1 × 10−6 °C−1), and were larger than organic materials, such as polystyrene (−1.23 × 10−4 °C−1) and poly(methyl methacrylate) (−1.20 × 10−4 °C−1). The ϵ values were lower than that of alicyclic polyimide and semiaromatic polyimide. The obtained PU is expected to be useful for optical switching and optical waveguide areas. The conclusion has a little significance for the development of a new digital optical switch. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2010
Structural and ultraviolet‐protective properties of nano‐TiO2‐doped polypropylene filaments
Authors: Erdem Nilüfer , Erdogan Umit Halis , Cireli Aysun Aksit , Onar Nurhan
Published: August 2009

Textiles, with appropriate light absorbers and suitable finishing methods, can be used as ultraviolet (UV) protection materials. In this study, we investigated the effects of nano‐TiO2particles on the UV‐protective and structural properties of polypropylene (PP) textile filaments. Master batches of PP/TiO2nanoparticles were prepared by melt compounding before spinning, and filaments incorporating 0.3, 1, and 3% TiO2nanoparticles were spun in a pilot melt‐spinning machine. The structural properties of the nanocomposite fibers were analyzed with scanning electron microscopy, X‐ray diffractometry, differential scanning calorimetry, and tensile tests. The UV‐protection factor was determined to evaluate the UV‐protective properties of the filaments. In conclusion, although the structure and mechanical properties of the nanocomposite filaments were slightly affected by the addition of nano‐TiO2, the UV‐protective properties of the PP filaments improved after treatment with nano‐TiO2, and the nanocomposite filaments exhibited excellent UV protection. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2010
Pilot plant study of water‐borne high molecular weight amine adduct as corrosion inhibitor in emulsion paints
Authors: Mohamed H. A. , Badran B. M.
Published: August 2009

Ethylamine adduct (30 Kg) was prepared in an industrial field by reaction of ethylamine with epoxydized soybean oil, oxiran content 6.5, and identified by infra‐red spectroscopy. The prepared adduct was emulsified using both polyoxyethylene sorbitan monooleate in the continuous medium and sorbitan monooleate in the dispersed medium, using high speed homogenizer, 4000 round per minute. Surface tension measurements were determined by platinum ring technique. The stability of the prepared emulsions was determined thermally. The emulsified adduct was scaled up to ¼ ton using 50 L capacity homogenizer. The emulsified adduct was added to emulsion paint formulations by three different concentrations. Physical, chemical, mechanical, corrosion resistance, water uptake, and weight loss tests had been done in absence and presence of the corrosion inhibitor, to evaluate the corrosion inhibition efficiency of the emulsified adduct. Chosen formulations were scaled up to 5 ton using a 100 L capacity mixer. Carbon steel plates of 15× 15 cm were coated and exposed to natural weather on the roof of National Research Center. The effect of the emulsified ethylamine adduct as corrosion inhibitor was followed up by taking pictures every month for more than 2 years. It was found that the prepared ethylamine adduct was successfully emulsified and could protect steel from corrosion. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2010
Cure kinetics and morphology of natural rubber reinforced by the in situ polymerization of zinc dimethacrylate
Authors: Nie Yijing , Huang Guangsu , Qu Liangliang , Zhang Peng , Weng Gengsheng , Wu Jinrong
Published: August 2009

Peroxide‐cured natural rubber (NR) reinforced by zinc dimethacrylate (ZDMA) was prepared. The cocrosslinking action of ZDMA and the formation and evolution of the phase morphology induced by ZDMA during the curing process were systematically investigated. A curemeter and a differential scanning calorimeter were used to investigate the cure kinetics, and the kinetic parameters and the apparent activation energy were obtained. The phase morphology of the composites obtained from transmission electron microscopy revealed that separated nanophases of poly(zinc dimethacrylate) (PZDMA) existed in the rubber matrix. Covalent crosslinking, physical adsorption, and ionic crosslinking simultaneously existed in the composites, and they were determined with an equilibrium swelling method. On the basis of this, new microstructure models of NR/ZDMA composites and ionic crosslinking were put forward. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2010
Morphology transition in electrospinning polymers by a dual‐capillary system
Authors: Mei Fan , Chen Da‐Ren
Published: August 2009

An experimental investigation of the fiber morphology change of fibers prepared by a dual‐capillary electrospinning system, operated in the cone‐jet mode, was carried out for poly(vinyl acetate) polymers of three molecular weights. The substrate morphology of the electrospun poly(vinyl acetate) could be changed significantly when the polymer's molecular weight, concentration, solvent, and outer liquid flow rate were varied. The onset of bead‐to‐fiber transition was determined by the critical chain overlap concentration. For solutions with a high concentration, the fiber diameter and surface were significantly affected by the physical properties of the solvents. To produce fibers of small diameter, electrospinning with a higher conductivity solution was desirable. On the other hand, a high‐conductivity solution needed to be avoided to keep the fiber uniform in diameter and smooth on the surface. The comparison of electrospun fibers produced by both single‐capillary and dual‐capillary systems was also addressed. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2010
Electron‐beam‐radiation‐induced grafting of acrylonitrile onto polypropylene fibers: Influence of the synthesis conditions
Authors: Jeun Joon‐Pyo , Hua Zu Jian , Kang Phil‐Hyun , Nho Young‐Chang
Published: August 2009

Electron‐beam‐radiation‐induced grafting of acrylonitrile onto polypropylene fibers was investigated with a pre‐irradiation method. Grafting conditions such as the solvents, additives, monomer concentration, radiation dose, and temperature were varied, and the effects on the degree of grafting were studied. The nature of the reaction medium and additives had a considerable influence on the degree of grafting. The dilution of acrylonitrile with N,N‐dimethylformamide significantly enhanced the degree of grafting in comparison with other solvents. The addition of sulfuric acid to the reaction mixture led to an increase in the degree of grafting and an acceleration of the rate of grafting. The order of dependence of the rate of grafting on the pre‐irradiation dose and monomer concentration was found to be 1.31 and 1.21, respectively, in the presence of sulfuric acid. The activation energy for grafting was calculated to be 21.9 kJ/mol. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2010
Glycolysis of postconsumer polyethylene terephthalate waste
Authors: Pingale Navnath D. , Palekar Vikrant S. , Shukla S. R.
Published: August 2009

Glycolytic depolymerization of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) bottle waste was attempted using ethylene glycol (EG) in the presence of chlorides of zinc, lithium, didymium, magnesium, and iron as catalysts. Virtual monomer bis (2‐hydroxyethyl terephthalate) (BHET) was obtained in all cases with nearly 74% yield, the highest yield being achieved with zinc chloride catalyst 0.5% w/w, PET : EG ratio 1 : 14 and 8 h under reflux conditions. The results were comparable to other catalysts like common alkalis, acids, and salts of some earth metals and zeolites used earlier although parameters of glycolysis were observed to vary depending on the catalyst. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2010
Synthesis of polypropylene/clay nanocomposites using bisupported Ziegler‐Natta catalyst
Authors: Ramazani S. A. Ahmad , Tavakolzadeh Fahimeh , Baniasadi Hossein
Published: August 2009

In this article, preparation of polypropylene/clay nanocomposites (PPCNC) via in situ polymerization is investigated. MgCl2/montmorillonite bisupported Ziegler‐Natta catalyst was used to prepare PPCNC samples. Montmorillonite (MMT) was used as an inert support and reinforcement agent. The nanostructure of the composites was characterized by X‐ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, and transmission electron microscopy techniques. Obtained results showed that silica layers of the MMT in these PPCNC were intercalated, partially exfoliated, and uniformly dispersed in the polypropylene matrix. Thermogravimetric analysis showed good thermal stability for the prepared PPCNC. Differential scanning calorimetric was used to investigate both melting and crystallization temperatures, as well as the crystallinity of the PPCNC samples. Results of permeability analysis showed significant increase in barrier properties of PPCNC films. Effective parameters on molecular weight and flow ability of produced samples such as Al/Ti molar ratio and H2 concentration were also investigated. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2010
Modification of cyanate ester resin by hydroxyl‐terminated liquid butadiene‐acrylonitrile rubber and free volume properties of their composites
Authors: Minfeng Zeng , Xudong Sun , Xiandong Yao , Yun Wang , Mingzhu Zhang , Baoyi Wang , Chenze Qi
Published: August 2009

The toughness of cyanate ester resin (CE) matrix is improved significantly with addition of hydroxyl‐terminated liquid butadiene‐acrylonitrile rubber (HTBN). The impact strength increased from 4.4 KJ/m2 (pure CE) to 13.3 KJ/m2 (CE/HTBN, HTBN 10 wt %). The curing behavior of the system is studied by differential scanning calorimetric and Fourier transform infrared spectroscope. The results showed that hydroxyl groups on the HTBN chains have slight activation effect to CE curing reaction at the beginning of the cure process. The toughening mechanism is mainly caused by the flexibilizing effects of the homogeneously dispersed HTBN molecules in the CE matrix. The toughening mechanism was demonstrated from the aspect of free volume using positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy. With addition of HTBN, the mean free‐volume size of the composite is smaller than pure CE. The decrease in the mean free‐volume size of the system is mainly related to the partition effects of the finely dispersed HTBN molecules to the free‐volume holes of CE matrix. A dramatic increase in the interfacial area occurs in this highly miscible system. Good interfacial adhesion is also reflected from the higher I2 of the composite. Therefore, more positrons annihilation in their free state occurs in the composites containing HTBN than pure CE. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2010
Femoral Strength and Posture in Terrestrial Birds and Non‐Avian Theropods
Authors: Farke Andrew A. , Alicea Justy
Published: August 2009

Osteological and experimental evidence suggest a change in femoral posture between non‐avian dinosaurs (in which the femur presumably was carried in a subvertical position) and birds (in which the femur is held nearly horizontal during most phases of terrestrial locomotion). In this study, we used a broad comparative sample to test the hypothesis that cross‐sectional properties of the femur records evidence of this presumed change in posture. Imax and Imin (second moment of area, related to resistance to bending) and cross‐sectional area (indicating resistance to compression) were measured from computed tomography scans of the femora of 30 species of flightless or primarily terrestrial birds, one probable non‐dinosaur dinosauromorph, and at least four species of non‐avian theropods. It was predicted that birds should have more eccentrically shaped femoral midshafts as measured by Imax/Imin (reflecting greater bending) and comparatively smaller cross‐sectional areas than non‐avians. Results show that no significant differences occur between non‐avian dinosaurs and birds for any parameter, and the samples overlapped broadly in many cases. Thus, cross‐sectional properties cannot be used to infer differences in femoral posture between the two groups. This surprising finding might be explained by the fact that femoral postures were not drastically different or that a gradation of postures occurred in each sample. It is also possible that bone loading during life was not closely correlated with cross‐sectional morphology. We conclude that cross‐sectional properties should be used with caution in determining the posture and behaviors of extinct animals, and only in conjunction with other morphological information. Anat Rec, 292:1406–1411, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Variation in Center of Mass Estimates for Extant Sauropsids and its Importance for Reconstructing Inertial Properties of Extinct Archosaurs
Authors: Allen Vivian , Paxton Heather , Hutchinson John R.
Published: August 2009

Inertial properties of animal bodies and segments are critical input parameters for biomechanical analysis of standing and moving, and thus are important for paleobiological inquiries into the broader behaviors, ecology and evolution of extinct taxa such as dinosaurs. But how accurately can these be estimated? Computational modeling was used to estimate the inertial properties including mass, density, and center of mass (COM) for extant crocodiles (adult and juvenile Crocodylus johnstoni) and birds (Gallus gallus; junglefowl and broiler chickens), to identify the chief sources of variation and methodological errors, and their significance. High‐resolution computed tomography scans were segmented into 3D objects and imported into inertial property estimation software that allowed for the examination of variable body segment densities (e.g., air spaces such as lungs, and deformable body outlines). Considerable biological variation of inertial properties was found within groups due to ontogenetic changes as well as evolutionary changes between chicken groups. COM positions shift in variable directions during ontogeny in different groups. Our method was repeatable and the resolution was sufficient for accurate estimations of mass and density in particular. However, we also found considerable potential methodological errors for COM related to (1) assumed body segment orientation, (2) what frames of reference are used to normalize COM for size‐independent comparisons among animals, and (3) assumptions about tail shape. Methods and assumptions are suggested to minimize these errors in the future and thereby improve estimation of inertial properties for extant and extinct animals. In the best cases, 10%–15% errors in these estimates are unavoidable, but particularly for extinct taxa errors closer to 50% should be expected, and therefore, cautiously investigated. Nonetheless in the best cases these methods allow rigorous estimation of inertial properties. Anat Rec, 292:1442–1461, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
A Functional Explanation for Denticulation in Theropod Dinosaur Teeth
Authors: D'Amore Domenic C.
Published: August 2009

The serrated, or denticulated, ziphodont teeth of theropod dinosaurs display variability in their extent of denticulation. The functional model proposed here tests the hypothesis that denticles will not exist in areas that do not frequently contact the substrate. This area, defined as the “dead‐space,” is determined by the direction the tooth moves through the fleshy substrate. The extent of denticulation, as well as the dead‐space dimensions, is measured from photographs of 235 isolated and in situ theropod teeth, to determine a meaningful relationship between the two variables. Both Euclidean and geometric morphometric methods are employed, and the data are expressed in bivariate and ordination plots. The model predicts the direction of tooth movement through the curvature of the tip/apex. Tooth position and taxon are considered. The results show that the mesial margin is usually partially denticulated, while the distal margin is usually totally denticulated. Curved teeth have large dead‐spaces, and tend to be less denticulated mesially. Straighter teeth are more extensively denticulated, to the point where they became symmetrical. The mesial denticulation is determined by the dead‐space, and dictated by the substrate contact. The dead‐space almost always predicted less extensive denticulation; a consequence of the model's limitations. Tooth curvature increases with a more distal position, due to rotation based on the proximity to the hinge. Denticulation indicates that theropods used a distally oriented puncture to modify the substrate, similar to modern analogues. Although there is little taxonomic variation, Troodontidae show unique and extreme degrees of mesial denticulation. Anat Rec, 292:1297–1314, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Dinosaurs in the Year of Darwin
Authors: Dodson Peter
Published: August 2009

This special issue of The Anatomical Record explores the recent advances in the functional morphology and paleobiology of dinosaurs. Although Darwin did not study dinosaurs because paleontology was in its infancy a century and half ago, he considered both paleontology and anatomy as essential subjects for establishing the validity of evolution. The study of dinosaurs constitutes a vigorous subdiscipline within vertebrate paleontology, and anatomists and evolutionary functional morphologists constitute an especially creative subgroup within dinosaur paleontology. The collection of 17 papers presented in this issue encompass cranial anatomy, postcranial anatomy, and paleobiology of dinosaurs and other archosaurs. Soft tissue subjects include studies of brain structure, jaw adductor muscles, and keratinous appendages of the skull. Taxonomically, it includes four papers with a focus on theropods, including Tyrannosaurus, five papers dealing with ceratopsians, three papers on hadrosaurs, and one on ankylosaurs. Modern anatomical techniques such as CT scanning, finite element analysis, and high resolution histology are emphasized. The visual presentation of results of these studies is spectacular. Results include the first‐ever life history table of a plant‐eating dinosaur; a determination of the head orientation of Tyrannosaurus and its relatives based on interpretation of the semicircular canals. The claws of Velociraptor appear to best adapted for tree climbing, but not for horrific predatory activities. Pachyrhinosaurus evidently used its massive head for head butting. The tail club of the armored dinosaur Euoplocephalus had the structural integrity to be used as a weapon. The pages abound with insights such as these. Dinosaurs once dead for millions of years live again! Anat Rec, 292:1240–1245, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
New Insights Into the Brain, Braincase, and Ear Region of Tyrannosaurs (Dinosauria, Theropoda), with Implications for Sensory Organization and Behavior
Authors: Witmer Lawrence M. , Ridgely Ryan C.
Published: August 2009

The braincase region of tyrannosaurs was investigated to provide insights on anatomical attributes relevant to inferences of sensory biology and behavior. CT scanning focused on three specimens of Tyrannosaurus rex, a juvenile Gorgosaurus, and the controversial Cleveland skull (CMNH 7541). Analysis shows that the cerebral hemispheres were enlarged, but conflicting information on the optic lobes suggests that brain conformation was not fully avian. Previous estimates of olfactory bulb size for T. rex were much too large, but even the corrected sizes are relatively larger than other theropods, suggesting that odor detection was indeed of particular importance to tyrannosaurs. The inner ears show a number of coelurosaurian traits, such as elongate and rounded and rostral, lateral semicircular canals, and incipient twisting of the common crus, which we interpret to be related to enhanced reflexes coordinating rapid eye and head movements. The cochlea is elongate, which, coupled with the finding of extensive tympanic pneumaticity, supports the inference of behavioral emphasis of low‐frequency sounds. Three main groups of sinuses pneumatized the braincase, and there are a number of perhaps systematically relevant differences. Orientation of the endosseous labyrinth reveals that alert head postures of T. rex and Gorgosaurus were somewhat depressed below the horizontal, but the Cleveland skull had a very strongly down‐turned posture. It is concluded that tyrannosaur sensory biology is consistent with their predatory coelurosaurian heritage, with emphasis on relatively quick, coordinated eye and head movements, and probably sensitive low‐frequency hearing; tyrannosaurs apomorphically enhanced their olfactory apparatus. The taxonomic status of the Cleveland skull remains unresolved. Anat Rec, 292:1266–1296, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
A Life Table for Psittacosaurus lujiatunensis: Initial Insights Into Ornithischian Dinosaur Population Biology
Authors: Erickson Gregory M. , Makovicky Peter J. , Inouye Brian D. , Zhou Chang‐Fu , Gao Ke‐Qin
Published: August 2009

Very little is known about nonavian dinosaur population biology. Multi‐individual sampling and longevity estimation using growth line counts can be used to construct life tables—the foundation for population analyses in ecology. Here we have determined the size and age distribution for a sample consisting of 80 individuals of the small ornithischian, Psittacosaurus lujiatunensis from the early Cretaceous Yixian Formation of China. Their ages ranged from less than a year to eleven years and the distribution was strongly right‐skewed. This is consistent with taphonomic interpretations that these animals derive from a catastrophic death assemblage. The static life table analysis revealed the same general pattern of survivorship as tyrannosaurs including increased attrition before the attainment of full adult size. This may reflect increased physiological demands and/or predation exposure associated with reproduction. Collectively these findings suggest that most nonavian dinosaurs may have had a similar life history strategy. Anat Rec, 292:1514–1521, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Novel evidence‐based systemic lupus erythematosus responder index
Authors: Furie Richard A. , Petri Michelle A. , Wallace Daniel J. , Ginzler Ellen M. , Merrill Joan T. , Stohl William , Chatham W. Winn , Strand Vibeke , Weinstein Arthur , Chevrier Marc R. , Zhong Z. John , Freimuth William W.
Published: August 2009

Objective

To describe a new systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) responder index (SRI) based on a belimumab phase II SLE trial and demonstrate its potential utility in SLE clinical trials.

Methods

Data from a randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled study in 449 patients of 3 doses of belimumab (1, 4, 10 mg/kg) or placebo plus standard of care therapy (SOC) over a 56‐week period were analyzed. The Safety of Estrogens in Lupus Erythematosus: National Assessment (SELENA) version of the Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Disease Activity Index (SLEDAI) and British Isles Lupus Assessment Group (BILAG) SLE disease activity instruments, the Short Form 36 health survey, and biomarker analyses were used to create a novel SRI. Response to treatment in a subset of 321 serologically active SLE patients (antinuclear antibodies ≥1:80 and/or anti–double‐stranded DNA antibodies ≥30 IU/ml) at baseline was retrospectively evaluated using the SRI.

Results

SRI response is defined as 1) a ≥4‐point reduction in SELENA–SLEDAI score, 2) no new BILAG A or no more than 1 new BILAG B domain score, and 3) no deterioration from baseline in the physician's global assessment by ≥0.3 points. In serologically active patients, the addition of belimumab to SOC resulted in a response in 46% of patients at week 52 compared with 29% of the placebo patients (P = 0.006). SRI responses were independent of baseline autoantibody subtype.

Conclusion

This evidence‐based evaluation of a large randomized, placebo‐controlled trial in SLE resulted in the ability to define a robust responder index based on improvement in disease activity without worsening the overall condition or the development of significant disease activity in new organ systems.
Liver X receptor agonism promotes articular inflammation in murine collagen‐induced arthritis
Authors: Asquith Darren L. , Miller Ashley M. , Hueber Axel J. , McKinnon Heather J. , Sattar Naveed , Graham Gerry J. , McInnes Iain B.
Published: August 2009

Objective

Liver X receptors (LXRs) have previously been implicated in the regulation of inflammation and have, in general, been ascribed an antiinflammatory role. This study was therefore undertaken to explore the biologic mechanisms of LXRs in vivo and in vitro in an experimental inflammatory arthritis model.

Methods

Male DBA/1 mice were immunized with type II collagen and treated from an early or established stage of arthritis with 2 different concentrations of the LXR agonists T1317 and GW3965 or vehicle control. The mice were monitored for articular inflammation and cartilage degradation by scoring for clinical signs of arthritis, histologic examination of the joints, and analysis of serum cytokine and antibody levels. In vitro, primary human monocytes and T cells were cultured in the presence of GW3965 or T1317, and the concentrations of proinflammatory cytokines were measured by multiplex assay.

Results

Contrary to expectations, LXR agonism with the use of 2 discrete, specific molecular entities led to substantial exacerbation of articular inflammation and cartilage destruction in this murine collagen‐induced arthritis model. This was associated ex vivo with elevated cytokine expression, with enhanced Th1 and Th17 cellular responses, and with elevated collagen‐specific autoantibody production. In vitro, LXR agonists, in concert with lipopolysaccharide, promoted cytokine and chemokine release from human monocytes, and similar effects were observed in a T cell–macrophage coculture model that closely recapitulates the pathways that drive synovial cytokine release.

Conclusion

Since LXRs are present in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) synovium, these results suggest that LXR‐mediated pathways could exacerbate the chronic inflammatory response typical of RA.
Reliability and validity of the university of california, los angeles scleroderma clinical trial consortium gastrointestinal tract instrument
Authors: Khanna Dinesh , Hays Ron D. , Maranian Paul , Seibold James R. , Impens Ann , Mayes Maureen D. , Clements Philip J. , Getzug Terri , Fathi Nihal , Bechtel Amber , Furst Daniel E.
Published: August 2009

Objective

To refine the previously developed scleroderma (systemic sclerosis [SSc]) gastrointestinal tract (GIT) instrument (SSC‐GIT 1.0).

Methods

We administered the SSC‐GIT 1.0 and the Short Form 36 to 152 patients with SSc; 1 item was added to the SSC‐GIT 1.0 to assess rectal incontinence. In addition, subjects completed a rating of the severity of their GIT involvement (from very mild to very severe). Evaluation of psychometric properties included internal consistency reliability, test–retest reliability (mean time interval 1.1 weeks), and multitrait scaling analysis.

Results

Study participants were mostly women (84%) and white (81%); 55% had diffuse SSc. Self‐rated severity of GIT involvement ranged from no symptoms to very mild (39%), mild (21%), moderate (31%), and severe/very severe (9%). Of an initial 53 items in the SSC‐GIT 1.0, 19 items were excluded, leaving a 34‐item revised instrument (the University of California, Los Angeles Scleroderma Clinical Trial Consortium GIT 2.0 [UCLA SCTC GIT 2.0]). Analyses supported 7 multi‐item scales: reflux, distention/bloating, diarrhea, fecal soilage, constipation, emotional well‐being, and social functioning. Test–retest reliability estimates were ≥0.68 and coefficient alphas were ≥0.67. Participants who rated their GIT disease as mild had lower scores on a 0–3 scale on all 7 scales. Symptom scales were also able to discriminate subjects with corresponding clinical GIT diagnoses. The Total GIT Score, developed by averaging 6 of 7 scales (excluding constipation), was reliable and provided greater discrimination between mild, moderate, and severe self‐rated GIT involvement than individual scales.

Conclusion

This study provides support for the reliability and validity of the UCLA SCTC GIT 2.0, an improvement over the SSC‐GIT 1.0, and supports a Total GIT Score in SSc patients with GIT.
Rheumatoid arthritis does not share most of the newly identified systemic lupus erythematosus genetic factors
Authors: Suarez‐Gestal Marian , Calaza Manuel , Dieguez‐Gonzalez Rebeca , Perez‐Pampin Eva , Pablos Jose Luis , Navarro Federico , Narvaez Javier , Marenco Jose Luis , Herrero‐Beaumont Gabriel , Fernandez‐Gutierrez Benjamin , Lamas Jose Ramon , de la Serna Arturo Rodriguez , Ortiz Ana Maria , Carreño Luis , Cañete Juan D. , Caliz Rafael , Blanco Francisco J. , Balsa Alejandro , Gomez‐Reino Juan J. , Gonzalez Antonio
Published: August 2009

Objective

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) share some genetic factors such as HLA, PTPN22, STAT4, and 6q23. The aim of this study was to determine whether 9 other SLE genetic factors are also implicated in RA susceptibility.

Methods

A characteristic single‐nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) in each of 9 genetic factors, ITGAM (rs1143679), C8orf13–BLK (rs13277113), TYK2 (rs2304256), 1q25.1 (rs10798269), PXK (rs6445975), KIAA1542 (rs4963128), MECP2 (rs17435), BANK1 (rs17266594), and LY9 (rs509749), was studied in 1,635 patients with RA and 1,906 control subjects from Spain. The rs7574865 SNP in STAT4 was also included. Analyses were conducted globally and after stratification by sex and clinical features (anti–cyclic citrullinated peptide and rheumatoid factor, shared epitope, rheumatoid nodules, radiographic changes, sicca syndrome, and pneumonitis).

Results

No association was observed between RA and any of the 9 newly identified SLE genetic factors. A meta‐analysis using previous data was consistent with these results. In addition, there were no significant differences between individuals with and those without each of the clinical features analyzed, except the frequency of the minor allele in the C8orf13–BLK locus that was decreased in patients with sicca syndrome (14.6% versus 22.4% in controls; P = 0.003).

Conclusion

None of the 9 recently identified SLE risk factors showed association with RA. Therefore, common genetic factors affecting the pathogenesis of these 2 disorders seem to be limited, revealing that the genetic component contributes to the different expression of these diseases.
Defective phosphorylation of interleukin‐18 receptor β causes impaired natural killer cell function in systemic‐onset juvenile idiopathic arthritis
Authors: de Jager Wilco , Vastert Sebastiaan J. , Beekman Jeffrey M. , Wulffraat Nico M. , Kuis Wietse , Coffer Paul J. , Prakken Berent J.
Published: August 2009

Objective

Systemic‐onset juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) is an autoimmune disease characterized by arthritis and systemic features. Its pathogenesis is still largely unknown. It is characterized immunologically by natural killer (NK) cell dysfunction and cytokine signatures that predominantly feature interleukin‐1 (IL‐1), IL‐6, and IL‐18. Since IL‐18 can drive NK cell function, we examined how the high plasma levels of this cytokine are related to the documented NK cell failure in these patients.

Methods

The phenotype and function of NK cells from 10 healthy control subjects, 15 patients with polyarticular JIA, and 15 patients with systemic‐onset JIA were characterized by staining and functional assays in vitro. IL‐18 ligand binding was visualized by fluorescence microscopy. Phosphorylation of several MAP kinases and the IL‐18 receptor β (IL‐18Rβ) were visualized by Western blotting.

Results

IL‐18 from the plasma of systemic‐onset JIA patients stimulated the activation of NK cells from healthy controls and bound its cognate receptor. However, NK cells from systemic‐onset JIA patients failed to up‐regulate cell‐mediated killing molecules, such as perforin and interferon‐γ, after IL‐18 stimulation. Furthermore, treatment with IL‐18 did not induce the phosphorylation of receptor‐activated MAP kinases in NK cells. Alternate activation of NK cells by IL‐12 induced NK cell cytotoxicity. We observed no additive effect of IL‐18 in combination with IL‐12 in systemic‐onset JIA patients. Immunoprecipitation of IL‐18Rβ showed that NK cells from systemic‐onset JIA could not phosphorylate this receptor after IL‐18 stimulation.

Conclusion

The mechanism of the impaired NK cell function in systemic‐onset JIA involves a defect in IL‐18Rβ phosphorylation. This observation has major implications for the understanding and, ultimately, the treatment of systemic‐onset JIA.
ADAM‐8 isolated from human osteoarthritic chondrocytes cleaves fibronectin at Ala271
Authors: Zack Marc D. , Malfait Anne‐Marie , Skepner Adam P. , Yates Matthew P. , Griggs David W. , Hall Troii , Hills Robert L. , Alston James T. , Nemirovskiy Olga V. , Radabaugh Melissa R. , Leone Joseph W. , Arner Elizabeth C. , Tortorella Micky D.
Published: August 2009

Objective

Fibronectin fragments are thought to play a critical role in the initiation and progression of cartilage degradation in arthritis. In a recent study, fibronectin neoepitopes resulting from cleavage of intact fibronectin at the Ala271/Val272 scissile bond, generating an ∼30‐kd fragment with the new C‐terminus VRAA271 and an ∼50–85‐kd fragment with the new N‐terminus 272VYQP, were identified in osteoarthritis (OA) cartilage. The present study was undertaken to isolate the enzymes responsible for this cleavage from human OA chondrocytes.

Methods

Fibronectin‐degrading activity in human OA chondrocyte–conditioned medium (OACCM) was purified using conventional chromatography. A fluorescent peptide was developed based on the fibronectin scissile bond 269RAA↓Val272, and this peptide was used to track fibronectinase activity during purification. Western blotting with antibodies that detect the fibronectin neoepitopes VRAA271 and 272VYQP was used to confirm cleavage of intact fibronectin by the enzymatically active fractions. Mass spectrometry was used to identify the proteins found in the fibronectinase‐enriched fractions, with further confirmation by Western blotting. In addition, a recombinant enzyme identified by mass spectrometry was tested by Western blotting and dimethylmethylene blue assay for its ability to produce fibronectin neoepitopes in OA cartilage.

Results

Purification of OACCM by chromatography resulted in isolation of a fibronectin‐degrading enzyme, and mass spectrometry identified ADAM‐8 as the fibronectinase present in these preparations. Furthermore, treatment of OA cartilage with recombinant human ADAM‐8 promoted cartilage catabolism.

Conclusion

The results of this study identify ADAM‐8 as a fibronectinase in human OA chondrocytes. Because ADAM‐8 is capable of producing the fibronectin neoepitopes VRAA271 and 272VYQP in human OA cartilage, this enzyme may be an important mediator of cartilage catabolism.