bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Contract production as a method to reduce welfare loss caused by market uncertainty of seed potato
Authors: TUOMISTO J.
Published: September 2007

The aim of this study is to show whether contract production between seed and food potato producers lessens market uncertainty, reduce welfare losses for both parties and increase efficiency in the entire potato chain. These problems were approached from the point of view of the principal-agent theory combined with different contract models. Results indicate that no contract model provided seed potato producers with average positive net profits, and profitability ratios for seed potato farms stayed below one. The results indicate that seed potato producers trading on a fixed-price and pre-emptive market could sell their seed potato for 13 per cent less than on a transaction market, but with equal net profits. The more consistent supply chain leads to less market uncertainty. If the food potato producer was not party to the contract, there was no marked decrease in market uncertainty. With contract production the needs of contract parties could be controlled, but it will be up to the objectives of the party offering the contract, which party in the potato chain most benefits from the contract production.;
Effect of biological sprays on the incidence of grey mould, fruit yield and fruit quality in organic strawberry production
Authors: PROKKOLA S. , KIVIJÄRVI P.
Published: September 2007

Plant diseases, especially grey mould (Botrytis cinerea), may cause severe losses in organic strawberry production. In a two-year period, 20012002, the effects of different biological sprays on grey mould, the fruit yield and fruit quality of organically grown strawberry Jonsok were studied in field trials at MTT Agrifood Research Finland in Ruukki and Mikkeli. In Experiment 1 the biological sprays were seaweed, garlic and compost extracts, silicon and Trichoderma spp. on both trial sites. In Experiment 2, compost extract, Trichoderma spp. and Gliocladium catenulatum sprays were studied in Ruukki. The treatment time was chosen to control grey mould. The effect of different biological sprays on the incidence of grey mould and total and marketable yield was insignificant compared to the untreated control. In both years and in all trials the incidence of grey mould was low and rot occurred mainly in the latter part of the harvesting period, which may partly explain the small differences between treatments. Anyhow, despite of feasible biological control cultural control methods will be important to manage the fungus in organic strawberry production.;
Performance of Anaerobic Waste Activated Sludge Digesters After Microwave Pretreatment
Authors: Eskicioglu Cigdem , Droste Ronald L. , Kennedy Kevin J.
Published: September 2007

Effects of microwave pretreatment on waste activated sludge (WAS) in mesophilic semicontinuous digesters with acclimatized inoculum at solids retention times (SRTs) of 5, 10, and 20 days are presented. Batch digesters determined optimum microwave temperature, intensity, WAS concentration, and percentage of WAS pretreated for highest WAS solubilization (soluble to total chemical oxygen demand ratio [SCOD:TCOD]) and biogas production. Pretreatment results indicated the potential to damage floc structure and release 4.2‐, 4.5‐, and 3.6‐fold higher soluble proteins, sugars, and SCOD:TCODs compared with controls, with nucleic acid release. Pretreatment increased dewaterability and bioavailability of WAS with 20% higher biogas production compared with controls in batch digestion. In semicontinuous digesters, relative (to control) improvements in removals dramatically increased, as SRT was shortened from 20 to 10 to 5 days, with 23 and 26% higher volatile solids removals for WAS pretreated to 96°C by microwave and conventional heating at a 5‐day SRT.
Modification of Chemical Oxygen Demand Monitoring in the Yellow River, China, with a High Content of Sediments
Authors: Ni Jinren , Sun Liyiing , Sun Weiling
Published: September 2007

This paper presents a modification of chemical oxygen demand (COD) monitoring giving a better indication of the pollution level compared with the conventional COD method for rivers with a high content of sediments. The correlation between the sediment organic carbon and COD was investigated using sediments sampled in the middle Yellow River, China. Partitioning of the sediment organic carbon between the water and sediment phases was also investigated using batch experiments, with the sediment concentration varying from 20 to 400 g/L. As a result, the COD modification equations are proposed for both turbid water (mixture of water and sediment) and supernatant water (filtrate using a 0.45‐μm membrane). The modified COD in turbid water and supernatant water could be 40 and 10% less than the monitored COD values, respectively. These results may have a significant influence on the assessment of water quality class in the Yellow River.
Enhancement of Batch Waste Activated Sludge Digestion by Microwave Pretreatment
Authors: Eskicioglu Cigdem , Kennedy Kevin J. , Droste Ronald L.
Published: September 2007

Batch anaerobic digesters were used to stabilize microwave (MW)‐irradiated waste activated sludge (WAS). A low temperature range (50–96 °C) MW irradiation was applied. Effects of pretreatment temperature (T) and intensity (I), concentration (C) and percentage of sludge pretreated (PT) were investigated in a multilevel factorial statistical design containing 54 mesophilic batch reactors by monitoring cumulative biogas production (CBP). Variance analysis (ANOVA) determined that the most important factors affecting WAS solubilization were temperature, intensity, and sludge concentration. Improvements in CBP from WAS were significantly affected by sludge percentage pretreated, temperature, and concentration. Pretreatment resulted in 3.6 ± 0.6 and 3.2 ± 0.1 fold increases in soluble to total chemical oxygen demand (SCOD/TCOD) at high and low sludge concentrations, respectively. WAS, microwaved to 96 °C, produced the greatest improvement in CBP with 15 ± 0.5 and 20 ± 0.3% increases over controls after 19 d of digestion at low and high WAS concentrations. Dewaterability of microwaved sludge was enhanced after anaerobic digestion.
The Case for Variable Density: A New Perspective on Activated Sludge Settling
Authors: Jang Hoon , Schuler Andrew J.
Published: September 2007

A new, simple method for directly measuring activated sludge density was developed and applied, and the effects of biomass density on activated sludge settling in full‐scale systems were evaluated. The driving force of sedimentation is the physical weight of the biological solids, but the role of biomass density in sedimentation has been largely ignored. Biomass density varied amongst treatment systems and this variability was correlated with settleability. Floc densities were approximately normally distributed within individual samples. Nonsoluble phosphorus content was a major contributor to density, and plants with enhanced biological phosphorus removal (EBPR) configurations generally had higher densities and better settleability than non‐EBPR plants with similar filament contents. These results suggest that future work may benefit from consideration of density as a factor affecting activated sludge settling.
Comparison of Pharmacokinetics and Dynamics of the Long-Acting Insulin Analogs Glargine and Detemir at Steady State in Type 1 Diabetes
Authors: Porcellati Francesca , Rossetti Paolo , Busciantella Natalia Ricci , Marzotti Stefania , Lucidi Paola , Luzio Steven , Owens David R. , Bolli Geremia B. , Fanelli Carmine G.
Published: September 2007

OBJECTIVE—To compare pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of insulin analogs glargine and detemir, 24 subjects with type 1 diabetes (aged 38 ± 10 years, BMI 22.4 ± 1.6 kg/m2, and A1C 7.2 ± 0.7%) were studied after a 2-week treatment with either glargine or detemir once daily (randomized, double-blind, crossover study).

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS—Plasma glucose was clamped at 100 mg/dl for 24 h after subcutaneous injection of 0.35 unit/kg. The primary end point was end of action (time at which plasma glucose was >150 mg/dl).

RESULTS—With glargine, plasma glucose remained at 103 ± 3.6 mg/dl up to 24 h, and all subjects completed the study. Plasma glucose increased progressively after 16 h with detemir, and only eight subjects (33%) completed the study with plasma glucose <180 mg/dl. Glucose infusion rate (GIR) was similar with detemir and glargine for 12 h, after which it decreased more rapidly with detemir (P < 0.001). Estimated total insulin activity (GIR area under the curve [AUC]0–end of GIR) was 1,412 ± 662 and 915 ± 225 mg/kg (glargine vs. detemir, P < 0.05), with median time of end of action at 24 and 17.5 h (glargine vs. detemir, P < 0.001). The antilipolytic action of detemir was lower than that of glargine (AUC free fatty acids0–24 h 11 ± 1.7 vs. 8 ± 2.8 mmol/l, respectively, P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS—Detemir has effects similar to those of glargine during the initial 12 h after administration, but effects are lower during 12–24 h.
Single Oral Challenge by Advanced Glycation End Products Acutely Impairs Endothelial Function in Diabetic and Nondiabetic Subjects
Authors: Uribarri Jaime , Stirban Alin , Sander Denise , Cai Weijing , Negrean Monica , Buenting Cristina E. , Koschinsky Theodore , Vlassara Helen
Published: September 2007

OBJECTIVE—The current study was designed to test the acute effects of dietary advanced glycation end products (AGEs) on endothelial function of diabetic and nondiabetic subjects.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS—Flow-mediated dilation (FMD) of the brachial artery and serum levels of AGEs, plasminogen activator inhibitor 1 (PAI-1), vascular cell adhesion molecule 1 (VCAM-1), and glucose were assessed before and after a single oral AGE challenge (∼1.8 × 106 AGE units) in 44 diabetic and 10 nondiabetic subjects.

RESULTS—The diabetic patients had higher baseline levels of serum AGEs (P = 0.020), PAI-1 (NS), and VCAM-1 (P = 0.033) and lower baseline values of FMD compared with nondiabetic subjects (P = 0.032). Ninety minutes after a single oral AGE challenge, serum AGEs and PAI-1 levels increased and FMD decreased significantly in both healthy subjects (AGEs: 7.2 ± 0.5 to 9.3 ± 1 units/ml, P = 0.014; PAI-1: 5.4 ± 0.4 to 6.8 ± 0.4 ng/ml, P = 0.007; and FMD: 9.9 ± 0.7 to 7.4 ± 0.9%, P = 0.019) and diabetic subjects (AGEs: 10.5 ± 0.7 to 14.2 ± 1 units/ml, P = 0.020; PAI-1: 6.5 ± 1 to 10 ± 2 ng/ml, P = 0.030; and FMD: 5.4 ± 0.4 to 4.0 ± 0.3%, P = 0.032). Serum glucose and VCAM-1 levels remained unchanged.

CONCLUSIONS—Significant increases in serum AGEs can occur together with altered clinical measures of endothelial function in diabetic and nondiabetic subjects after a single modest AGE-rich beverage. Thus, repeated or chronic exposure to high AGE diets could over time lead to and/or accelerate vascular disease.
Higher Prevalence of Elevated Albumin Excretion in Youth With Type 2 Than Type 1 Diabetes
Authors: Maahs David M. , Snively Beverly M. , Bell Ronny A. , Dolan Lawrence , Hirsch Irl , Imperatore Giuseppina , Linder Barbara , Marcovina Santica M. , Mayer-Davis Elizabeth J. , Pettitt David J. , Rodriguez Beatriz L. , Dabelea Dana
Published: September 2007

OBJECTIVE—To estimate the prevalence of an elevated albumin-to-creatinine ratio (ACR) (≥30 μg/mg) among youth with type 1 or type 2 diabetes and to identify factors associated with elevated ACR and their effect on the relationship between elevated ACR and type of diabetes.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS—Cross-sectional data were analyzed from 3,259 participants with onset of diabetes at <20 years of age in the SEARCH for Diabetes in Youth, a multicenter observational study of diabetes in youth. Multiple logistic regression was used to explore determinants of elevated ACR and factors accounting for differences in this prevalence between type 2 and type 1 diabetes.

RESULTS—The prevalence of elevated ACR was 9.2% in type 1 and 22.2% in type 2 diabetes (prevalence ratio 2.4 [95% CI 1.9–3.0]; P < 0.0001). In multiple logistic regression analysis, female sex, A1C and triglyceride values, hypertension, and type of diabetes (type 2 versus type 1) were significantly associated with elevated ACR. Adjustment for variables related to insulin resistance (obesity, hypertension, dyslipidemia, and inflammation) attenuated, but did not completely explain, the association of diabetes type with elevated ACR.

CONCLUSIONS—Youth with type 2 diabetes have a higher prevalence of elevated ACR than youth with type 1 diabetes, in an association that apparently does not completely depend on age, duration of diabetes, race/ethnicity, sex, level of glycemic control, or features of insulin resistance.
Differing Causes of Pregnancy Loss in Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Cundy Tim , Gamble Greg , Neale Leonie , Elder Rose , McPherson Paul , Henley Patrick , Rowan Janet
Published: September 2007

OBJECTIVE—Women with type 2 and type 1 diabetes have differing risk factors for pregnancy loss. We compared the rates and causes of pregnancy loss in women with type 1 and type 2 diabetes.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS—We utilized prospectively collected data on all pregnancies in a 20-year period (1986–2005) from a single center with a high prevalence of type 2 diabetes. Pregnancy losses included terminations for medical reasons and deaths up to 1 month postpartum but not spontaneous pregnancy losses <20 weeks’ gestation.

RESULTS—There were 870 pregnancies in women with known diabetes (330 with type 1 and 540 with type 2 diabetes) and 325 in women with diabetes diagnosed in pregnancy but persisting postpartum (97% type 2 diabetes). The rate of pregnancy loss was similar in type 1 and type 2 diabetes (2.6 vs. 3.7%, P = 0.39), but the causes of pregnancy loss differed. In type 1 diabetes >75% were attributable to major congenital anomalies or prematurity; in type 2 diabetes >75% were attributable to stillbirth or chorioamnionitis (P = 0.017). Women with type 2 and type 1 diabetes had similar A1C at presentation and near term, but the former were older (P < 0.001) and more obese (P < 0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS—There are significant differences in the main causes of pregnancy loss in women with type 1 and type 2 diabetes. The higher rates of stillbirth in women with type 2 diabetes, suggest that other features, such as obesity, contribute significantly to pregnancy losses.
Insulin Sensitivity, Vascular Function, and Iron Stores in Voluntary Blood Donors
Authors: Zheng Haoyi , Patel Milan , Cable Ritchard , Young Lawrence , Katz Stuart D.
Published: September 2007

OBJECTIVE— Reduced iron stores after blood donation are associated with improved vascular function and decreased cardiovascular risk. We sought to determine whether iron-dependent changes in glucose metabolism may contribute to improved vascular function in blood donors.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS— We conducted a prospective cross-sectional study in 21 high-frequency blood donors (more than eight donations in the last 2 years) and 21 low-frequency blood donors (one to two donations in the last 2 years) aged 50–75 years. Serum markers of iron stores, whole-body insulin sensitivity index (WBISI) during oral glucose tolerance testing, and flow-mediated dilation in the brachial artery were determined in all subjects.

RESULTS— Serum ferritin was decreased (median values 23 vs. 36 ng/ml, P < 0.05) and flow-mediated dilation in the brachial artery was increased (median values 5.9 vs. 5.3%, P < 0.05) in high-frequency donors compared with low-frequency donors, respectively, but WBISI (median values 4.8 vs. 4.7) and related measures of glucose tolerance did not differ between groups. Flow-mediated dilation significantly decreased at 1 h after oral glucose loading in both groups, but the decrease in flow-mediated dilation at 1 h did not differ between high- and low-frequency donors.

CONCLUSIONS— High-frequency blood donation reduced serum ferritin and increased flow-mediated dilation compared with low-frequency donation but did not improve insulin sensitivity or protect the vascular endothelium from the adverse effects of acute hyperglycemia after oral glucose loading. These findings suggest that the mechanisms linking blood donation to improved vascular function are not likely related to changes in glucose metabolism.
The Functional Endoscopic Approach to Inflammatory Sinus Disease: Current Perspectives and Technique Modifications
Authors: Kennedy David W. , Zinreich S. James
Published: September 2007

Endoscopic examination and pleuridirectional polytomography provided some important insights into the pathogenesis of inflammatory sinus disease. These insights have been further refined by the increasing utilization of endoscopy in medical therapy and surgical follow-up, and by the use of computed tomography for diagnosis. The aim of this paper is to review the current status of the diagnosis of chronic inflammatory sinus disease and of functional endoscopic surgical techniques. The impact of this approach on previously held theoretical and diagnostic concepts is evaluated. Technical modifications made since the surgery was first introduced in the United States and the lessons learned from close postsurgical endoscopic examination are presented.
Relevance of the Ciliary Ultrastructure in Primary and Secondary Ciliary Dyskinesia: A Review
Authors: Jorissen Mark , Cassiman Jean-Jacques
Published: September 2007

Primary ciliary dyskinesia is a group of autosomal recessive inherited disorders characterized by the absence of any mucociliary transport. In the cilia of most patients specific ultrastructural abnormalities are present, such as the dynein deficiency, the spoke deficiency, and the absence of the central pair of microtubules. Secondary ciliary dyskinesia, the acquired (infectious, toxic, or inflammatory) form, is mostly correlated with other abnormalities, such as microtubular abnormalities and compound cilia. However, the great overlap, the missing links, and the confusing observations limit the insight in pathogenesis and pathophysiology and may require new in vitro systems.
Chronic Sinusitis and a Negative Sweat Test in a Patient with Cystic Fibrosis
Authors: Kingdom Todd T , Lee Kelvin C. , Cropp Gerd J.
Published: September 2007

The diagnosis of cystic fibrosis (CF) is based on sweat chloride and DNA mutation testing. A subset of CF patients may have normal sweat chloride levels, thus requiring DNA analysis for confirmation of the diagnosis. These patients may escape diagnosis if sweat testing is the only modality used for screening. Recently, the putative structural gene for CF was localized to chromosome 7. The delta-F508 mutation accounts for approximately 70% of the CF chromosomes identified in North American Caucasians. Over 400 identified mutations constitute the remainder. It is now possible to screen patients for the presence of many of these genetic mutations, thus establishing the diagnosis of CF or defining a carrier state. We report an unusual case of a 17-year-old male with chronic sinusitis, mild pulmonary disease, and pancreatic sufficiency with nondiagnostic sweat chloride levels diagnosed to have CF after DNA analysis. This technique may thus serve as an important tool that pediatricians and otolaryngologists can use to diagnose children suspected of having CF.
Effect of Topical ucb 28754 on Rhinitis Provoked by Intranasal Histamine and Ascaris Suum in the Monkey
Authors: Tanner Ernest , Choung Ji Tae , Swarts J. , De Vos Christine , Fireman Philip
Published: September 2007

A monkey model was used to evaluate intranasal ucb-28754, a newly developed H1 antagonist in attenuating nasal obstruction following intranasal challenge with either histamine or Ascaris in a dose response protocol. Nasal patency was measured with computer assisted anterior rhinomanometry. Eight female, feral, Ascaris sensitive, juvenile cynomolgus monkeys were pretreated with 100 ul of 0.075% ucb-28754 or placebo in a crossover study protocol before intranasal histamine provocation. Three of the animals also received 100 ul of 0.075% or 0.3% ucb-28754 or placebo before intranasal Ascaris challenge. Statistically significant (P < 0.05) improvement was observed for the ucb-28754 treated monkeys in nasal conductance and in mean nasal work/L following histamine challenge. Pharmacologic efficacy (50% reduction of nasal obstruction) was achieved for the medication on three of four histamine dosages. In the Ascaris challenged animals, pharmacologic efficacy was achieved for four of five doses for the animals receiving 0.075% ucb-28754 and two of five doses when they were pretreated with 0.3% ucb-28754. Measurement of heart rate, respiratory rate, and blood pressure, as well as visual examination of the monkeys indicated that ucb-28754 had no adverse effects. These studies indicate that ucb-28754 administered intranasally is a potentially safe and effective antihistamine in this monkey experimental model.
Plantwide operation of processes with crystallization
Authors: Ward Jeffrey D. , Yu Cheng‐Ching , Doherty Michael F.
Published: September 2007

Simple analytical expressions are developed to model the steady‐state operation of a chemical plant with a continuous crystallizer. The equations show analytically how uncontrolled variables change with the changing production rate depending on the values of key kinetic parameters and the choice of controlled variables. Because the results are derived, their validity and limitations are more apparent than heuristics that are suggested based on case studies. Furthermore, because the equations are simple and analytic, it is possible to develop insight and understanding about the behavior of the process. Finally, these results can be readily taught to process engineers and used to rapidly screen alternative control structures for operability problems. Results are illustrated with a case study process to produce adipic acid. © 2007 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 2007
Evaluation of energy usage for the first stage of heavy water production
Authors: Chávez Rosa‐Hilda , Guadarrama Javier de J.
Published: September 2007

The thermodynamic analysis of the first stage of enrichment of heavy water production by the Girdler Sulfide (GS) process is described. Use of the Second Law of Thermodynamics as analysis tool allows a simple and useful procedure for the quantification of the transit energy in the process. Such thermodynamic analysis based on the concepts of irreversible entropy increase has frequently been suggested as pointers to sources of inefficiency in chemical processes. Furthermore, this study points out where the irreversibilities of the process are located, a generalized discussion of the cost with respect to the optimization parameters, and provides a generalized discussion from the successful application of the technique. © 2007 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 2007
Pai syndrome: Report of seven South American patients
Authors: Guion‐Almeida Maria Leine , Mellado Cecília , Beltrán Constanza , Richieri‐Costa A.
Published: September 2007

Frontonasal dysplasia is etiologically heterogeneous and various subsets are known. Pai syndrome is one subset, which is characterized by mild hypertelorism, midline cleft lip, nasal and facial polyps, pericallosal lipoma, ocular anomalies, and normal neuropsychological development. Here, we report seven South American patients and review earlier reported cases. The phenotype is clinically variable and five reported patients were severely affected. The cause of Pai syndrome is unknown to date. Several literature findings have been noted: nondiagnostic and discordant minor signs in a parent of two separate families with an affected child; discordant phenotype in monozygotic twins in one instance; and a de novo reciprocal translocation, 46,X,t(X;16)(q28;q11.2) in one instance. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Thermal and dynamic mechanical behavior of poly(vinyl chloride)/wood flour composites
Authors: Jiang Haihong , Pascal Kamdem Donatien
Published: September 2007

Thermal and dynamic mechanical behaviors of wood plastic composites made of poly vinyl chloride (PVC) and surface treated, untreated wood flour were characterized by using differential scanning calorimetry and dynamic mechanical analysis. Glass transition temperature (Tg) of PVC was slightly increased by the addition of wood flour and by wood flour surface treatments. Heat capacity differences (ΔCp) of composites before and after glass transition were markedly reduced. PVC/wood composites exhibited smaller tan δ peaks than PVC alone, suggesting that less energy was dissipated for coordinated movements and disentanglements of PVC polymer chains in the composites. The rubbery plateaus of storage modulus (E′) curves almost disappeared for PVC/wood composites in contrast to a well defined plateau range for pure PVC. It is proposed that wood flour particles act as “physical crosslinking points” or “pinning centers” inside the PVC matrix, resulting in the absence of the rubbery plateau and high E′ above Tg. The mobility of PVC chain segments were further retarded by the presence of surface modified wood flour. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2008
Highly exfoliated poly(ϵ‐caprolactone)/organomontmorillonite nanocomposites prepared by in situ polymerization
Authors: Tarkin‐Tas Eylem , Goswami Shailesh K. , Nayak Bishwa R. , Mathias Lon J.
Published: September 2007

Poly(ϵ‐caprolactone)/organomodified montmorillonite nanocomposites were prepared by in situ polymerization with dibutyltin dimethoxide as an initiator/ catalyst. The montmorillonite was first modified with 1‐decyl‐2‐methyl‐3‐(11‐hydroxyundecyl)imidazolium cation. The hydroxyl functionality was used not only for initiating polymer chains from the surface of the clay platelets but also for grafting polymer chains to the surface by acting as a reversible chain‐transfer agent. The molecular weights of the polymer chains were controlled by the ratio of monomer to hydroxyl content. X‐ray diffraction and transmission electron microscopy studies confirmed that highly exfoliated nanostructures were formed. The amount of inorganic component did not affect the thermal behavior of the polymer matrix as shown by differential scanning calorimetry or thermogravimetric analysis. The highly exfoliated clay sheets acted as nucleating agents and increased the degree of crystallinity from 51 to 69% at 5 wt %. Dynamic mechanical analysis revealed an enhancement of the storage modulus with increasing clay content above the glass‐transition temperature. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2008
Effect of the graft yield of maleic anhydride on the rheological behaviors, mechanical properties, thermal properties, and free volumes of maleic anhydride grafted high‐density polyethylene
Authors: Chen Zhe , Fang Pengfei , Wang Hongmei , Wang Shaojie
Published: September 2007

The rheological behavior, thermal properties, and molecular mobility of a series of maleic anhydride (MA) grafted high‐density polyethylenes were characterized and evaluated. The rheological behavior was studied with a Haake minilaboratory. The viscosity of the samples in their melt state decreased with an increase in the graft yield, and this could be attributed to the higher molecular mobility for samples with a higher degree of grafting. The thermal properties were investigated with dynamic mechanical analysis and differential scanning calorimetry. Positron annihilation lifetime measurements were used to study the effect of the degree of grafting on the chemical environment and the atomic‐scale free‐volume properties. It was found that the grafted MA group played a significant chemical inhibition role in positronium formation when the graft yield was low. The results also indicated that the higher the degree of grafting was, the broader the free‐volume distribution was. The relationship between the microstructure and rheological behavior is discussed. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2008
Antiangiogenic plasma activity in patients with systemic sclerosis
Authors: Mulligan‐Kehoe Mary Jo , Drinane Mary C. , Mollmark Jessica , Casciola‐Rosen Livia , Hummers Laura K. , Hall Amy , Rosen Antony , Wigley Fredrick M. , Simons Michael
Published: September 2007

Objective

Systemic sclerosis (SSc; scleroderma) is a systemic connective tissue disease with an extensive vascular component that includes aberrant microvasculature and impaired wound healing. The aim of this study was to investigate the presence of antiangiogenic factors in patients with SSc.

Methods

Plasma samples were obtained from 30 patients with SSc and from 10 control patients without SSc. The samples were analyzed for the ability of plasma to affect endothelial cell migration and vascular structure formation and for the presence of antiangiogenic activity.

Results

Exposure of normal human microvascular dermal endothelial cells to plasma from patients with SSc resulted in decreased cell migration (mean ± SEM 52 ± 5%) and tube formation (34 ± 6%) compared with that in plasma from control patients (P < 0.001 for both). SSc plasma contained 2.9‐fold more plasminogen kringle 1–3 fragments (angiostatin) than that in control plasma. The addition of angiostatin to control plasma resulted in inhibition of endothelial cell migration and proliferation similar to that observed in SSc plasma. In vitro studies demonstrated that granzyme B and other proteases contained in T cell granule content cleave plasminogen and plasmin into angiostatin fragments.

Conclusion

Plasminogen conformation in patients with SSc enables granzyme B and granule content protease to limit the proangiogenic effects of plasmin and increase the levels of antiangiogenic angiostatin. This increase in angiostatin production may account for some of the vascular defects observed in patients with SSc.
Down‐regulation of collagen and connective tissue growth factor expression with hepatocyte growth factor in lung fibroblasts from white scleroderma patients via two signaling pathways
Authors: Bogatkevich Galina S. , Ludwicka‐Bradley Anna , Highland Kristin B. , Hant Faye , Nietert Paul J. , Singleton C. Beth , Silver Richard M.
Published: September 2007

Objective

To study the mechanisms by which hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) down‐regulates collagen and connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) in scleroderma (systemic sclerosis [SSc]) lung fibroblasts.

Methods

CTGF, type I collagen, and IκBα expression, together with MAPK phosphorylation, were studied by immunoblotting of lung fibroblasts derived from white SSc patients. Matrix metalloproteinase 1 (MMP‐1) expression in cell culture medium samples was measured by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay, MMP‐1 activity was studied using an MMP‐1 assay, and NF‐κB DNA binding activity was determined using a transcription factor assay.

Results

In lung fibroblasts from white SSc patients, HGF activated MAPK (ERK‐1/2) signaling pathways and MMP‐1, while it inhibited NF‐κB and significantly down‐regulated CTGF and collagen in a time‐ and dose‐dependent manner. Small interfering RNA (siRNA)–mediated depletion of Grb2 expression disrupted c‐Met receptor downstream signaling, which resulted in diminished HGF‐induced ERK‐1/2 phosphorylation and the recovery of HGF‐inhibited expression of MMP‐1, NF‐κB, collagen, and CTGF. The MAPK inhibitor, U0126, blocked MMP‐1 activity and restored HGF‐inhibited collagen and CTGF accumulation. Inhibition of MMP activity by MMP inhibitor GM1489 and inhibition of MMP‐1 expression by siRNA did not prevent HGF‐induced ERK‐1/2 phosphorylation and NF‐κB activity, but significantly restored HGF‐inhibited collagen and CTGF accumulation. NF‐κB inhibitor BAY 11‐7082 did not interfere with MAPK phosphorylation or MMP‐1 expression and activation, but significantly inhibited NF‐κB DNA binding activity and acted synergistically with HGF to completely diminish the expression of CTGF.

Conclusion

In lung fibroblasts from white SSc patients, HGF down‐regulates the accumulation of CTGF via MAPK/MMP‐1 and NF‐κB signaling pathways, whereas collagen down‐regulation is mediated mainly by a MAPK/MMP‐1–dependent pathway.
Water‐soluble C60 fullerene prevents degeneration of articular cartilage in osteoarthritis via down‐regulation of chondrocyte catabolic activity and inhibition of cartilage degeneration during disease development
Authors: Yudoh Kazuo , Shishido Kiyoshi , Murayama Hideki , Yano Mitsunobu , Matsubayashi Kenji , Takada Hiroya , Nakamura Hiroshi , Masuko Kayo , Kato Tomohiro , Nishioka Kusuki
Published: September 2007

Objective

Studies have shown the roles of oxidative stress in the pathogenesis of osteoarthritis (OA) and induction of chondrocyte senescence during OA progression. The aim of this study was to examine the potential of a strong free‐radical scavenger, water‐soluble fullerene (C60), as a protective agent against catabolic stress–induced degeneration of articular cartilage in OA, both in vitro and in vivo.

Methods

In the presence or absence of C60 (100 μM), human chondrocytes were incubated with interleukin‐1β (10 ng/ml) or H2O2 (100 μM), and chondrocyte activity was analyzed. An animal model of OA was produced in rabbits by resection of the medial meniscus and medial collateral ligament. Rabbits were divided into 5 subgroups: sham operation or treatment with C60 at 0.1 μM, 1 μM, 10 μM, or 40 μM. The left knee joint was injected intraarticularly with water‐soluble C60 (2 ml), while, as a control, the right knee joint received 50% polyethylene glycol (2 ml), once weekly for 4 weeks or 8 weeks. Knee bone and cartilage tissue were prepared for histologic analysis. In addition, in the OA rabbit model, the effect of C60 (10 μM) on degeneration of articular cartilage was compared with that of sodium hyaluronate (HA) (5 mg/ml).

Results

C60 (100 μM) inhibited the catabolic stress–induced production of matrix‐degrading enzymes (matrix metalloproteinases 1, 3, and 13), down‐regulation of matrix production, and apoptosis and premature senescence in human chondrocytes in vitro. In rabbits with OA, treatment with water‐soluble C60 significantly reduced articular cartilage degeneration, whereas control knee joints showed progression of cartilage degeneration with time. This inhibitory effect was dose dependent, and was superior to that of HA. Combined treatment with C60 and HA yielded a significant reduction in cartilage degeneration compared with either treatment alone.

Conclusion

The results indicate that C60 fullerene is a potential therapeutic agent for the protection of articular cartilage against progression of OA.
Do tumor necrosis factor inhibitors cause uveitis? A registry‐based study
Authors: Lim Lyndell L. , Fraunfelder Frederick W. , Rosenbaum James T.
Published: September 2007

Objective

Population‐based studies of patients with ankylosing spondylitis indicate that tumor necrosis factor (TNF) inhibitors prevent uveitis. Paradoxically, anecdotal reports implicate etanercept as a cause of uveitis. Therefore, using the information from 2 drug events databases, the purpose of this study was to assess reported cases of uveitis associated with the use of TNF inhibitors.

Methods

Uveitis cases occurring in the US associated with etanercept, infliximab, or adalimumab therapy that were reported to 2 spontaneous reporting databases prior to January 1, 2006 were reviewed.

Results

Overall, there were 43 cases of uveitis associated with etanercept, 14 associated with infliximab, and 2 associated with adalimumab. After normalizing for the estimated number of patients treated with each medication, etanercept was associated with a greater number of uveitis cases than infliximab (P < 0.001) and adalimumab (P < 0.01), while no such association was found between adalimumab and infliximab (P > 0.5). Using a priori criteria to avoid including patients whose underlying disease was associated with uveitis, 20 cases associated with etanercept, 4 cases associated with infliximab, and 2 cases associated with adalimumab were identified. A repeat analysis again revealed a greater number of uveitis cases associated with etanercept (P < 0.001 versus infliximab).

Conclusion

Etanercept therapy is associated with a significantly greater number of reported uveitis cases in comparison with infliximab and adalimumab in 2 medication side effect registries. These results are consistent with previous studies and suggest that this relationship is drug specific and not related to TNF inhibitors as a whole. However, our findings do not support the use of infliximab over etanercept; rather, if a patient develops uveitis during etanercept therapy, then a change to infliximab may be warranted.
PlA1/A2 polymorphism of the platelet glycoprotein receptor IIIA and risk of cranial ischemic complications in giant cell arteritis
Authors: Salvarani Carlo , Casali Bruno , Farnetti Enrico , Pipitone Nicolò , Formisano Debora , Nicoli Davide , Macchioni Pierluigi , Cimino Luca , Bajocchi Gianluigi , Grazia Catanoso Maria , Restuccia Giovanna , Ghinoi Alessandra , Boiardi Luigi
Published: September 2007

Objective

To investigate potential associations of the PlA1/A2 polymorphism of the platelet glycoprotein IIIa (GPIIIa) gene with susceptibility to, and clinical expression of, giant cell arteritis (GCA).

Methods

One hundred forty patients with biopsy‐proven GCA who were residents of Reggio Emilia, Italy, and 241 population‐based healthy controls from the same geographic area were genotyped for the PlA1/A2 polymorphism of the platelet GPIIIa gene by molecular methods. The patients were divided into subgroups according to the presence or absence of polymyalgia rheumatica and cranial ischemic complications. The distribution of the PlA1/A2 genotype was investigated, and odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) were calculated.

Results

The distribution of the PlA1/A2 genotype differed significantly between GCA patients with and those without visual loss caused by anterior ischemic optic neuritis (P = 0.016, corrected P [Pcorr] = 0.048). The PlA2 allele was found significantly more frequently in GCA patients with anterior ischemic optic neuritis than in those without anterior ischemic optic neuritis (P = 0.023, Pcorr = 0.046, OR 2.4 [95% CI 1.2–4.8]). Homozygosity for the PlA2 allele was significantly more frequent among GCA patients with anterior ischemic optic neuritis than among those without (P = 0.019, Pcorr = 0.038, OR 7.1 [95% CI 1.64–30.6]). Cranial ischemic complications occurred in 8 of 19 patients (42.1%) receiving antiplatelet therapy, compared with 22 of 118 patients (18.6%) not receiving such therapy (P = 0.03, OR 3.2 [95% CI 1.1–8.8]).

Conclusion

Our findings show that A2/A2 homozygosity is associated with an increased risk of visual loss due to anterior ischemic optic neuritis in GCA patients. Antiplatelet therapy, however, was not effective in reducing the risk of ischemic events in this population of GCA patients.
Presence of CD4+CD8+ double‐positive T cells with very high interleukin‐4 production potential in lesional skin of patients with systemic sclerosis
Authors: Parel Yann , Aurrand‐Lions Michel , Scheja Agneta , Dayer Jean‐Michel , Roosnek Eddy , Chizzolini Carlo
Published: September 2007

Objective

Fibrotic skin changes in systemic sclerosis (SSc) are preceded by the appearance of an inflammatory infiltrate rich in T cells. Since no direct comparison with T cells in normal skin has been performed previously, this study was undertaken to functionally characterize T cells in the skin of patients with early active SSc and in normal skin.

Methods

We characterized coreceptor expression, T cell receptor (TCR) usage, cytokine production, and helper and cytolytic activity of T cell lines and clones established from skin biopsy specimens from 6 SSc patients and 4 healthy individuals. Immunofluorescence analysis of skin biopsy and peripheral blood samples was performed to confirm the presence of specific subsets in vivo.

Results

A distinct subset expressing both CD4 and CD8α/β coreceptors at high levels (double‐positive [DP]) was present in T cell lines from SSc and normal skin. DP T cells actively transcribed both accessory molecules, exerted clonally distributed cytolytic and helper activity, and expressed TCR clonotypes distinct from those in CD4+ or CD8+ single‐positive (SP) T cells. In SSc skin, DP T cells produced very high levels of interleukin‐4 (IL‐4) compared with CD4+ SP T cells. Furthermore, DP T cells were directly identified in SSc skin, thus providing evidence that they are a distinct subset in vivo.

Conclusion

The present findings show that T cells with the unusual CD4+CD8+ DP phenotype are present in the skin. Their very high level of IL‐4 production in early active SSc may contribute to enhanced extracellular matrix deposition by fibroblasts.
Disease activity early in the course of treatment predicts response to therapy after one year in rheumatoid arthritis patients
Authors: Aletaha Daniel , Funovits Julia , Keystone Edward C. , Smolen Josef S.
Published: September 2007

Objective

To assess whether disease activity levels at treatment initiation or during the first 3 months of therapy predict disease activity at 1 year after treatment initiation.

Methods

Pooled patient data from early rheumatoid arthritis (RA) clinical trials (n = 1,342) of methotrexate (MTX), tumor necrosis factor (TNF) inhibitor monotherapy (adalimumab and etanercept), and the combination of the two (adalimumab or infliximab plus MTX) were used for the primary analyses. Pooled data from clinical trials of MTX and of TNF inhibitor plus MTX in late RA (n = 712) were used for validation of the results. Disease activity was primarily assessed using the Simplified Disease Activity Index (SDAI); in addition, we calculated the Disease Activity Score 28‐joint assessment (DAS28) and the Clinical Disease Activity Index (CDAI). Associations of disease activity measures at baseline and at 1, 2, 3, and 6 months with disease activity values or disease activity states at 1 year were performed using Spearman's rank correlation, analysis of variance, and diagnostic testing procedures, including receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analyses, and probit analysis.

Results

Correlations with SDAI values at end point were significant (P< 0.0001) at baseline, and increased to r = ∼0.6 at 3 months. The area under the ROC curve indicated a high diagnostic test yield with respect to the 1‐year outcome (area under the ROC curve ∼0.8). At all time points, including baseline, the group of patients who achieved remission at 1 year had lower average SDAI values than did those whose disease activity was high at 1 year. The groups achieving low or moderate disease activities at 1 year had SDAI values lying between. Baseline disease activity was less associated with disease activity at the end point for treatment with TNF inhibitor plus MTX, indicating its effectiveness over a broader range of baseline disease activity, but the association with end point disease activity was similar to that in the MTX treatment group at 1 month after treatment initiation. The data were similar when scores on the DAS28 and CDAI were used and were fully validated in the independent cohort of patients with late RA.

Conclusion

The level of disease activity at baseline and especially during the first 3 months of treatment is significantly related to the level of disease activity at 1 year. Patients who reach a moderate or low disease activity status after 3–6 months of therapy may require switching to alternative therapies. Our findings indicate that intensive and dynamic treatment strategies that include a closer look at disease activity at 3 months in patients with early and late RA is warranted.
High‐sensitivity C‐reactive protein in chronic low back pain with vertebral end‐plate modic signal changes
Authors: Rannou François , Ouanes Walid , Boutron Isabelle , Lovisi Bianca , Fayad Fouad , Macé Yann , Borderie Didier , Guerini Henri , Poiraudeau Serge , Revel Michel
Published: September 2007

Objective

To assess high‐sensitivity C‐reactive protein (hsCRP) level as a measure of low‐grade inflammation in relation to Modic vertebral end‐plate marrow signal change on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in patients with chronic low back pain.

Methods

All patients hospitalized for chronic low back pain in our institution were prospectively enrolled in this pilot study. Serum hsCRP concentration was measured by immunoturbidimetric assay. MR images were evaluated independently by a panel of 2 spine specialists and a radiologist. Recording of clinical parameters, MRI evaluation, and hsCRP level of each patient was blinded.

Results

Three groups of 12 consecutive patients (Modic 0, Modic I, and Modic II signal changes on MRI) were prospectively selected. Serum hsCRP level was significantly different in the 3 groups (P = 0.002) and especially high in the Modic I group (P = 0.002 compared with Modic 0 and II groups): mean ± SD 1.33 ± 0.77 mg/liter in the Modic 0 group, 4.64 ± 3.09 mg/liter in the Modic I group, and 1.75 ± 1.30 mg/liter in the Modic II group. The only difference in clinical parameters among the 3 groups (P = 0.001) was that the worst painful moment during the previous 24 hours occurred during the late night and morning for all Modic I patients (P = 0.001 compared with Modic 0 and P = 0.002 compared with Modic II).

Conclusion

Low‐grade inflammation indicated by high serum hsCRP level in patients with chronic low back pain could point to Modic I signal changes. This result could help physicians predict the patients with Modic I signals to more precisely prescribe the correct imaging procedure and local antiinflammatory treatment in such patients.
Effect of physical activity on articular knee joint structures in community‐based adults
Authors: Racunica Tina L. , Teichtahl Andrew J. , Wang Yuanyuan , Wluka Anita E. , English Dallas R. , Giles Graham G. , O'Sullivan Richard , Cicuttini Flavia M.
Published: September 2007

Objective

It is unclear whether physical activity that is beneficial for the cardiovascular system is detrimental to knee structures. We examined the association between intensity, frequency, and duration of physical activity and knee structures in a community‐based population.

Methods

A total of 297 healthy adults ages 50–79 years with no history of knee injury or disease were recruited from an existing study on healthy aging. Each subject underwent knee magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to measure tibial cartilage volume, tibiofemoral cartilage defects, and bone marrow lesions. Physical activity and anthropometric data were obtained via questionnaire during 1990–1994 and 2003–2004.

Results

Tibial cartilage volume increased with frequency (P = 0.01) and duration (P = 0.001) of vigorous activity (activity leading to diaphoresis or dyspnea) reported 10 years previously, as well as recent vigorous activity in the 7 days prior to MRI (P = 0.05). Recent weight‐bearing vigorous activity increased with tibial cartilage volume (P = 0.02) and was inversely associated with cartilage defects (P = 0.02). A reduced risk of bone marrow lesions was associated with regular walking (P = 0.04).

Conclusion

Vigorous physical activity appears to have a beneficial effect on knee articular cartilage in healthy, community‐based adults with no history of knee injury or disease. Regular walking reduces the risk of bone marrow lesions in the knee. This study provides further support for a beneficial effect of physical activity for diseases associated with aging and suggests that exercise that is good for the heart is also good for the knees.