bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Radiation grafting of acrylic acid/N‐vinyl pyrrolidone binary mixture onto poly(ethylene terephthalate) fabric and growth of human mesenchymal stem cell
Authors: Gupta Bhuvanesh , Grover Navdeep , Mohanty Sujata , Jain Krishan Gopal , Singh Harpal
Published: August 2009

Radiation grafting of acrylic acid (AA)/N‐vinyl pyrrolidone (NVP) binary mixture onto poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET) knittings was investigated by preirradiation technique. The influence of the grafting conditions, such as monomer composition, reaction temperature, and the effect of storage time with temperature after irradiation on the degree of grafting was determined. ATR‐FTIR spectroscopy analysis of the grafted knittings confirmed the existence of amide group of NVP in the knittings. The concentration of peroxides and effect of storage time on peroxide concentration were also determined by 2,2‐Diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazyl at different temperatures. There was an increase in surface roughness of grafted PET in comparison to virgin PET as determined by atomic force microscopy and scanning electron microscopy. The grafted knittings were subsequently immobilized with collagen Type I which was further apt for the study of growth and morphology of human mesenchymal stem cell (hMSC). The immobilization of collagen on PET knittings has provided an excellent surface for the growth of hMSCs. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2010
Feasibility of creating compression‐molded biocomposite boards from berry fruit pomaces
Authors: Park Su‐Il , Jiang Yan , Simonsen John , Zhao Yanyun
Published: August 2009

In this study, we investigated the feasibility of creating biocomposite boards from berry fruit pomaces on the basis of a crosslinking mechanism. Blueberry, cranberry, and wine grape pomaces were ground, dried, and mixed with soy flour (SF) or pectin and xanthan gum mixture at a ratio of 1 : 1 and with the addition of 15% glycerol (w/w of pomace and SF). Blueberry pomace (BP) was also blended with NaOH‐modified soy flour (MSF) at pomace/MSF ratios of 1 : 1, 4 : 1, and 9 : 1 and with 5, 10, or 15% glycerol. The mixtures were compression‐molded at 130–140°C into biocomposite boards to evaluate their mechanical and thermal properties, water absorption and solubility, and microstructure. Among the three pomaces, the BP board was the stiffest, whereas the wine grape pomace board was the most flexible. The breaking strength and modulus of elasticity of the BP/MSF boards increased with increasing MSF concentration but decreased with increased glycerol concentration. Mixing the pomace and glycerol into SF shifted the endothermic peaks and initial degradation to lower temperatures compared to that of SF alone. Increasing the glycerol concentration decreased the water absorption but increased the water solubility of the BP/MSF board. The pomace/MSF ratio in the board did not affect (P > 0.05) the water absorption, but the water solubility increased with increasing pomace concentration. Glycerol addition in the BP/MSF board smoothed the fracture surface, as shown by scanning electron microscopy images. This study may provide an approach to reducing fruit pomace disposal through the development of new value‐added biodegradable products for industrial applications, such as nursery pots and egg cartons. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2010
Synthesis and characterization of semi‐interpenetrating networks based on poly(dimethylsiloxane) and poly(vinyl alcohol)
Authors: Marques Rosalva S. , Mac Leod Tatiana C. O. , Yoshida Inez Valéria Pagotto , Mano Valdir , Assis Marilda D. , Schiavon Marco A.
Published: August 2009

Semi‐interpenetrating networks (Semi‐IPNs) with different compositions were prepared from poly(dimethylsiloxane) (PDMS), tetraethylorthosilicate (TEOS), and poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) by the sol‐gel process in this study. The characterization of the PDMS/PVA semi‐IPN was carried out using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and swelling measurements. The presence of PVA domains dispersed in the PDMS network disrupted the network and allowed PDMS to crystallize, as observed by the crystallization and melting peaks in the DSC analyses. Because of the presence of hydrophilic (OH) and hydrophobic (Si(CH3)2) domains, there was an appropriate hydrophylic/hydrophobic balance in the semi‐IPNs prepared, which led to a maximum equilibrium water content of ∼ 14 wt % without a loss in the ability to swell less polar solvents. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2010
Preparation and evaluation of a molecularly imprinted polymer for tolazoline
Authors: Lv Ruihong , Xu Lan , Huang Xinhua , Wang Yaqiong , Zhang Jin
Published: August 2009

A uniformly sized molecularly imprinted polymer for the peripheral vasodilator drug tolazoline (T‐MIP) was prepared, and a nonimprinted polymer (NIP) was also synthesized in the same way but in the absence of the template. The T‐MIP was prepared with methylacrylic acid as functional monomer and ethylene glycol dimethacrylate as crosslinker by a multistep swelling and polymerization method. These imprinted materials were characterized by scanning electron microscopy, nitrogen adsorption, and static adsorption experiments. Binding studies were also performed to evaluate the uptake of T‐MIP and NIP with the results that T‐MIP had a significantly higher binding capacity for tolazoline (T) than did NIP. The maximum static adsorption capacities of T‐MIP and NIP for T were 78.9 and 38.8 μmol/g, respectively. The T‐MIPs and NIPs were used as stationary phases of solid‐phase extraction (SPE), and a relative selectivity coefficient (k′) value of 5.21 was obtained, which showed that the T‐MIP sorbent had higher selectivity than the NIP sorbent. The method was applied to the determination of T in urine samples. The prepared polymer sorbent showed promise for SPE for gas chromatography determination of T in urine samples. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2010
Convenient synthesis of benzoate esters mediated by polymer supported benzoyl chloride
Authors: Karimi Zarchi Mohammad Ali , Mirjalili Bibi Fatemeh , Aval Ali Kheradmand
Published: August 2009

Use of polymeric reagents simplifies routine acylation of alcohols because it eliminates traditional purification. We describe the use of readily available crosslinked poly(N‐benzoyl‐4‐vinylpyridinium)chloride, [P4VP] COPh, in the solution phase synthesis of esters from alcohols or phenols in the presence of K2CO3 in high yields and purity. The products can be obtained by filtration and evaporation of the solvent and the polymeric reagent can be regenerated. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2010
Thermal and flame resistance properties of natural rubber‐g‐poly‐(dimethyl(methacryloyloxymethyl)phosphonate)
Authors: Intharapat Punyanich , Derouet Daniel , Nakason Charoen
Published: August 2009

Natural rubber grafted with poly(dimethyl(methacryloyloxymethyl)phosphonate) (i.e., NR‐g‐PDMMMP) was prepared in latex medium via photopolymerization. Thermal and flame resistance properties of the NR‐g‐PDMMMP prepared with various levels of grafted PDMMMP or grafting rate (GR) were investigated. Thermal behaviors were investigated by thermogravimetry analysis (TGA) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). It was found that the graft copolymer exhibited phase separation with double Tg values. A shift of Tgs toward each other was observed with increasing GR, which indicated tendency to become a single phase material. Increasing GRs also caused increasing heat and flame resistance with increasing degradation temperature and level of char residue. Furthermore, increasing level of limited oxygen index (LOI) and decreasing burning rate were observed with increasing the GR. This is attributed to increasing content of char residue of the phosphorus compound, which acted as the thermal insulation and a barrier of oxygen to transfer to the burning materials. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2010
Aerocellulose based on all‐cellulose composites
Authors: Duchemin Benoît J. C. , Staiger Mark P. , Tucker Nick , Newman Roger H.
Published: August 2009

Novel aerogels (or aerocellulose) based on all‐cellulose composites were prepared by partially dissolving microcrystalline cellulose (MCC) in an 8 wt % LiCl/DMAc solution. During this process, large MCC crystals and fiber fragments were progressively split into thinner crystals and cellulose fibrils. The extent of the transformation was controlled by using cellulose concentrations ranging from 5 to 20 wt % in the LiCl/DMAc solution. Cellulose gels were precipitated and then processed by freeze‐drying to maintain the openness of the structure. The density of aerocellulose increased with the initial cellulose concentration and ranged from 116 up to 350 kg m−3. Aerocellulose with relatively high mechanical properties were successfully produced. The flexural strength of the materials reached 8.1 MPa and their stiffness was as high as 280 MPa. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2010
Mechanical properties of polystyrene‐montmorillonite nanocomposites—Prepared by melt intercalation
Authors: Liu Sung‐Po , Huang Ing‐Jer , Chang Kung‐Chin , Yeh Jui‐Ming
Published: August 2009

A series of polymer‐clay nanocomposite (PCN) materials, consisting of thermoplastic polystyrene (PS) sample and dispersing inorganic organoclay platelets, were successfully prepared. First, organoclay was prepared by performing cationic exchange reactions between the sodium ions existing in the interlayer region of the clay mineral and intercalation agent, followed by dispersing the organophilic clay into a PS basis through the melt intercalation approach performed by a twin‐screw mixing method. The as‐prepared PCN materials in the form of a pellet subsequently characterized using the powder X‐ray diffraction (XRD) and the transmission electron microscopy (TEM). In this study, it is found that the wear resistance of PS to be effectively enhanced by the incorporation of low loading organophilic clay platelets. The surface morphological image for the neat PS and PS‐clay after a wear resistance test has also been compared and identified by the scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Furthermore, the effect of organoclay on three other different measurement types of mechanical properties for as‐prepared PCN materials, e.g., flexural tests, impact tests, and micron‐nano indenter tests were performed and compared. Generally, PCN materials exhibited an obvious enhancement of mechanical properties of neat polymer by an incorporated low loading of organophilic clay platelets into a polystyrene matrix used for the evaluation of mechanical properties as‐prepared samples. For example, mechanical strength (excepting flexural strength) almost remain same beyond 3 wt % clay loading in PS, whereas much detrimental effect being observed in the wear loss in case of PCNs with 5 wt % clay than 3 wt %. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2010
Melt functionalization of linear low‐density poly(ethylene) with succinimide and N‐hydroxy succinimide by thermolysis method
Authors: Anbarasan R. , Kanchana S. , Gayathri S. , Jayalakshmi T. , Dhanalakshmi V.
Published: August 2009

Linear low‐density polyethylene (LLDPE) was functionalized with succinimide under different experimental conditions like change in time, temperature, and (% weight of succinimide). The FTIR Spectrum inferred that melt grafting of succinimide onto LLDPE followed the 0.50 order of reaction with respect to (% weight of succinimide). DSC was used to analyze the (melting temperature) Tm and (crystallization temperature) Tc values of functionalized LLDPE. Free radical mechanism explained the formation of nitroxide radical during the melt functionalization of N‐hydroxy succinimide (NHS) with LLDPE in the presence of dicumyl peroxide. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2010
Synthesis and properties of elastic polyurethane‐imide
Authors: Kogiso Tetsuya , Inoue Shin‐Ichi
Published: August 2009

A new synthesis route for elastic polyurethane‐imides (EPUIs) has been established by a method involving the use of urea. Various EPUIs were synthesized from polyurethane‐urea, which was prepared from 4,4′‐diphenylmethane diisocyanate (MDI), polyoxytetramethylene glycol (PTMG) and 4,4′‐diphenylmethanediamine (MDA), and pyromellitic dianhydride in N‐methyl‐2‐pyrrolidone (NMP). Flexible films were cast from these solutions that had different inherent viscosities. Imidization of the EPUI films was completed at 200°C for 4 h in vacuo. The EPUIs were determined by FTIR, 1H NMR, and 13C NMR spectra. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2010
In vitro degradation of starch/PVA films and biocompatibility evaluation
Authors: Shi Rui , Zhu Aichen , Chen Dafu , Jiang Xiujuan , Xu Xiaochuan , Zhang Liqun , Tian Wei
Published: August 2009

A series of starch/PVA (SP) films with the thickness of 0.05–0.1 mm were cast by solvent method. The swelling and degradation behaviors in simulated blood fluid (SBF) and simulated saliva fluid (SSF) within 30 days were investigated. In vitro biocompatibility was also evaluated. Research purpose of this work was to supply basic data for SP films' potential application in guide tissue regeneration (GTR) technology. It took 10–20 min for different samples to reach to their maximum water absorption and 30 min to lever off. The weight loss of all samples decreased rapidly in the first day in both of SBF or SSF, and then it changed slightly in SSF but decreased step by step in SBF. The mechanical properties of the wet SP films were satisfied with the requirement of GTR membrane. No matter in SBF or SSF, although the mechanical properties decreased rapidly in the first day, they changed slightly after that. Cytotoxicity and L929 fibroblasts attachment test proved that the SP film possesses excellent cell affinity. Hemolysis ratios of all samples were less than 5%. All results demonstrated that SP film is a promising candidate in GTR treatment. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2010
The Development of the Epicardium in the Sturgeon Acipenser naccarii
Authors: Icardo José M. , Guerrero Alejandro , Durán Ana C. , Colvee Elvira , Domezain Alberto , Sans‐Coma Valentín
Published: August 2009

This article reports on the development of the epicardium in alevins of the sturgeon Acipenser naccarii, aged 4–25 days post‐hatching (dph). Epicardial development starts at 4 dph with formation of the proepicardium (PE) that arises as a bilateral structure at the boundary between the sinus venosus and the duct of Cuvier. The PE later becomes a midline organ arising from the wall of the sinus venosus and ending at the junction between the liver, the sinus venosus and the transverse septum. This relative displacement appears related to venous reorganization at the caudal pole of the heart. The mode and time of epicardium formation is different in the various heart chambers. The conus epicardium develops through migration of a cohesive epithelium from the PE villi, and is completed through bleb‐like aggregates detached from the PE. The ventricular epicardium develops a little later, and mostly through bleb‐like aggregates. The bulbus epicardium appears to derive from the mesothelium located at the junction between the outflow tract and the pericardial cavity. Strikingly, formation of the epicardium of the atrium and the sinus venosus is a very late event occurring after the third month of development. Associated to the PE, a sino‐ventricular ligament develops as a permanent connection. This ligament contains venous vessels that communicate the subepicardial coronary plexus and the sinus venosus, and carries part of the heart innervation. The development of the sturgeon epicardium shares many features with that of other vertebrate groups. This speaks in favour of conservative mechanisms across the evolutionary scale. Anat Rec, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
The Application of Stereological Methods for Estimating Structural Parameters in the Human Heart
Authors: Tang Yong , Nyengaard Jens R. , Andersen Johnnie B. , Baandrup Ulrik , Gundersen Hans Jørgen G.
Published: August 2009

This study describes and exemplifies generally applicable design‐based stereological methods for obtaining quantitative estimates of the numbers and sizes of capillaries, cardiomyocytes, and cardiomyocyte nuclei in immersion‐fixed human left ventricles (N = 6). The design‐based stereological methods are valid in all cardiac investigations onto quantifying changes in structure and function as seen under various conditions such as during development, aging, hypertrophy, and following ischemia/reperfusion. The applied principles of unbiased stereology were as follows: 1) uniform random sampling was taken at all levels, also in respect to orientations, for estimates of length and mean sizes. 2) All global structural quantities were estimated as total quantity = density × volume of the left ventricle. As an example, the left ventricle contains 1.5 × 109 capillaries with a total length of just below 200 km. 3) Stereological methods were used for estimating the volume density, surface area density, and length density of capillaries and cardiomyocytes. The numerical density of cardiomyocyte nuclei and capillaries was estimated, using the optical and physical disector, respectively. 4) In all local quantities, “size” was estimated either directly, using unbiased estimators to obtain the average individual size and size distribution parameters, or indirectly, using the relationship that: average size = total quantity/total number. In the six hearts constituting this study, we observed the anticipated correlation between left ventricular volume and global estimates such as total number of capillaries. There were no correlation between local quantities and total left ventricular volume (e.g., average star volume of individual cardiomyocytes). Anat Rec, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Evaluation of Long Bone Surface Textures as Ontogenetic Indicators in Centrosaurine Ceratopsids
Authors: Tumarkin‐Deratzian Allison R.
Published: August 2009

The search for criteria for aging non‐mammalian fossil vertebrates has preoccupied paleobiologists in recent years. Previous studies of the long bones of pterosaurs and modern and subfossil birds as well as of cranial material of centrosaurine ceratopsid dinosaurs have documented variations in surface textures that seem to be ontogenetically related. In this study, long bones from the centrosaurine ceratopsid generaCentrosaurus,Einiosaurus, andPachyrhinosaurusare examined to test the hypothesis that changes in bone surface textures and reduction of surface porosity could be correlated with size (and presumably age) classes, as has been previously documented in pterosaurs and birds. The data set includes 141 bones representing all six long bone elements, collected from monodominant centrosaurine bone beds. Bone surface patterns are documented by macroscopic visual examination, and a sequence of five texture classes ordered by decreasing surface porosity is described based on the common distributions of these patterns. Calculations of Spearman's rank correlation coefficients reveal significant correlations between texture class and size. The smallest bones are invariably associated with porous midshaft textures that grade to fibrous and long‐grained patterns proximally and distally [Texture Class (TC) 1]. Post‐hoc analysis after Kruskal–Wallis ANOVA on ranks confirms that the mean size of TC1 bones is, in most cases, significantly different than the mean size of bones in other texture classes. Results of this study suggest the presence of an ontogenetic surface textural signal in centrosaurine long bones; however, comparison of texture classes with size‐independent maturity criteria is needed to clarify further the potential ontogenetic significance of higher texture classes. Anat Rec, 292:1485–1500, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
A Comparison of the Jaw Mechanics in Hadrosaurid and Ceratopsid Dinosaurs Using Finite Element Analysis
Authors: Bell Phil R. , Snively Eric , Shychoski Lara
Published: August 2009

Hadrosaurid and ceratopsid dentaries display traits that suggest divergent functions toward broadly similar diets of fibrous plants. Computed tomographic scans of dentaries of a lambeosaurine and a centrosaurine (Centrosaurus aptertus) were used to compare feeding function of these animals using finite element analysis (FEA). In the hadrosaur, mediolateral expansion of the dentary and elongation of the coronoid process of the surangular were optimally developed to withstand torsion associated with transverse‐isognathous jaw occlusion. FEA results strongly suggest longitudinal rotation of the hadrosaurid mandible. Mediolaterally compressed mandibles and FEA stress for the ceratopsid are in compliance with purely isognathous jaw adduction, although palinal retraction during the powerstroke cannot be ruled out. The ceratopsid dentary is further reinforced by a longitudinal ridge on the lateral surface of that element. Surface texture indicating Sharpey's fibers within the ceratopsid coronoid process suggests greater bite force than in lambeosaurines. These findings corroborate previous interpretations and suggest complementary or alternative kinematics to maxillary pleurokinesis in hadrosaurs. Anat Rec, 292:1338–1351, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
New Insights Into Dinosaur Jaw Muscle Anatomy
Authors: Holliday Casey M.
Published: August 2009

Jaw muscles are key components of the head and critical to testing hypotheses of soft‐tissue homology, skull function, and evolution. Dinosaurs evolved an extraordinary diversity of cranial forms adapted to a variety of feeding behaviors. However, disparate evolutionary transformations in head shape and function among dinosaurs and their living relatives, birds and crocodylians, impair straightforward reconstructions of muscles, and other important cephalic soft tissues. This study presents the osteological correlates and inferred soft tissue anatomy of the jaw muscles and relevant neurovasculature in the temporal region of the dinosaur head. Hypotheses of jaw muscle homology were tested across a broad range archosaur and sauropsid taxa to more accurately infer muscle attachments in the adductor chambers of non‐avian dinosaurs. Many dinosaurs likely possessed m. levator pterygoideus, a trait shared with lepidosaurs but not extant archosaurs. Several major clades of dinosaurs (e.g., Ornithopoda, Ceratopsidae, Sauropoda) eliminated the epipterygoid, thus impacting interpretations of m. pseudotemporalis profundus. M. pseudotemporalis superficialis most likely attached to the caudoventral surface of the laterosphenoid, a trait shared with extant archosaurs. Although mm. adductor mandibulae externus profundus and medialis likely attached to the caudal half of the dorsotemporal fossa and coronoid process, clear osteological correlates separating the individual bellies are rare. Most dinosaur clades possess osteological correlates indicative of a pterygoideus ventralis muscle that attaches to the lateral surface of the mandible, although the muscle may have extended as far as the jugal in some taxa (e.g., hadrosaurs, tyrannosaurs). The cranial and mandibular attachments of mm adductor mandibulae externus superficialis and adductor mandibulae posterior were consistent across all taxa studied. These new data greatly increase the interpretive resolution of head anatomy in dinosaurs and provide the anatomical foundation necessary for future analyses of skull function and evolution in an important vertebrate clade. Anat Rec, 292:1246–1265, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
The Facial Integument of Centrosaurine Ceratopsids: Morphological and Histological Correlates of Novel Skin Structures
Authors: Hieronymus Tobin L. , Witmer Lawrence M. , Tanke Darren H. , Currie Philip J.
Published: August 2009

The horned dinosaur Pachyhinosaurus possesses rugose bony bosses across the skull roof in lieu of the projecting bony horn cores seen in most ceratopsians. This elaboration of typical ceratopsian ornaments provides an opportunity to test hypotheses of ceratopsian facial skin morphology and function. We analyze bone morphology and histology associated with several classes of skin features in extant amniotes using a classification tree analysis. We isolate key osteological and histological correlates for unpreserved skin structures, including both a pattern of pitting and resorption characteristic of muskox (Ovibos) frontal horn boss, and a pattern of metaplastic ossification characteristic of rhinoceros nasal horn boss. We also describe correlates for other skin features, such as epidermal scales and horn sheaths. Dermatocranial elements from centrosaurine ceratopsians are then examined for the same osteological and histological correlates. From this comparison we propose that the rugose bosses that replace horn cores in many centrosaurine dinosaurs, most notably Achelousaurus and Pachyrhinosaurus, were covered by a thick pad of cornified skin derived from the caudodorsal side of the primitive horn sheath comparable to the horny boss of extant muskoxen (Ovibos). We examine extant taxa with skin morphologies similar to Pachyrhinosaurus for consistent adaptive relationships between structure and behavior. We determine that high‐energy headbutting is consistently associated with the acquisition of thick cornified pads, seen in muskoxen as well as helmeted hornbills [Buceros (=Rhinoplax) vigil] and African buffalo (Syncerus). The association of the bony ornaments of Pachyrhinosaurus with risky agonistic behaviors casts doubt on the role of species recognition as a primary selection pressure driving the diversity of all ceratopsian horns. We conclude that social selection (a broad form of intraspecific competition) is a more appropriate explanation for the diversity of centrosaurine ceratopsian ornaments in the Late Cretaceous. Anat Rec, 292:1370–1396, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Palaeobiological Implications of the Bone Histology of Pterodaustro guinazui
Authors: Chinsamy Anusuya , Codorniú Laura , Chiappe Luis
Published: August 2009

This study provides a comprehensive investigation of the bone microstructure of multiple bones of the Early Cretaceous filter‐feeder, Pterodaustro guinazui, from the Largacito Formation of Central Argentina. We provide information regarding the bone histology of multiple elements from single skeletons, as well as a variety of bones from different individuals. In addition, we analysed changes in bone microstructure through ontogeny in growth series of several long bones of the taxon. Our investigation of skeletal and ontogenetic variation in Pterodaustro gives insights into the developmental growth dynamics of this unusual ctenochasmatid pterodactyloid from early ontogeny through to adulthood and also provides information pertaining to histological variability within and between bones of individuals. This study also documents the presence of what appears to be medullary bone tissue within the medullary cavity of a large femur of Pterodaustro. This suggests that, like birds, reproductively active female pterosaurs may have deposited a special bone tissue (medullary bone) to cope with the demand of calcium during eggshelling. Our study supports the hypothesis that small Jurassic pterodactyloids took several years to reach adult body size. More specifically, we provide data that suggests that Pterodaustro attained sexual maturity at about 2 years of age, and continued to grow for a further 3–4 years doubling in size before attaining skeletal maturity. Anat Rec, 292:1462–1477, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Synthesis and Biological Evaluation of Some Polymethoxylated Fused Pyridine Ring Systems as Antitumor Agents
Authors: Rostom Sherif A. F. , Hassan Ghada S. , El‐Subbagh Hussein I.
Published: August 2009

A series of 3,5‐bis(arylidene)‐4‐piperidones like chalcone analogues carrying variety of methoxylated aryl groups, pyrazolo[4,3‐c]pyridines, pyrido[4,3‐d]pyrimidines, and pyrido[3,2‐c]pyridines, carrying an arylidene moiety, and some pyrano[3,2‐c]pyridines, like flavone and coumarin isosteres, were synthesized and screened for their in‐vitro antitumor activity at the National Cancer Institute (NCI, USA). The tested compounds 7, 9, 10, 12, 13, 15, 17, and 19 exhibited a broad spectrum of antitumor activity. Compounds belonging to the pyrazolo[4,3‐c]pyridine series proved to be more active than those of the pyrido[3,2‐c]pyridine and pyrano[3,2‐c]pyridine analogues, in which the monomethoxylated derivatives showed better antitumor activity when compared with their corresponding dimethoxylated congeners. Compound 7 is considered to be the most active member identified in this study with a broad spectrum of activity against 22 different tumor cell lines belonging to the nine subpanels employed, and a particular effectiveness against the breast cancer T‐47D cell line (GI 54.7%). The pyrano[3,2‐c]pyridine heterocyclic system 19 proved to be the most active antitumor agent among the six‐membered fused pyridines, with variable activity against 18 different tumor cell lines, and special activity against the non‐small cell lung cancer Hop‐92 and ovarian cancer OVCAR‐4 cell lines (GI values 63.9 and 48.5%, respectively).
Effect of thigh strength on incident radiographic and symptomatic knee osteoarthritis in a longitudinal cohort
Authors: Segal Neil A. , Torner James C. , Felson David , Niu Jingbo , Sharma Leena , Lewis Cora E. , Nevitt Michael
Published: August 2009

Objective

To assess whether knee extensor strength or hamstring:quadriceps (H:Q) ratio predicts risk for incident radiographic tibiofemoral and incident symptomatic whole knee osteoarthritis (OA) in adults ages 50–79 years.

Methods

We followed 1,617 participants (2,519 knees) who, at the baseline visit of the Multicenter Osteoarthritis (MOST) Study, did not have radiographic tibiofemoral OA and 2,078 participants (3,392 knees) who did not have symptomatic whole knee OA (i.e., did not have the combination of radiographic OA and frequent knee symptoms). Isokinetic strength was measured at baseline, and participants were followed for development of incident radiographic tibiofemoral OA, or incident symptomatic whole knee OA at 30 months. Generalized estimating equations accounted for 2 knees per subject, and multivariable models adjusted for age, body mass index (BMI), hip bone mineral density, knee surgery or pain, and physical activity score.

Results

In the studies of incident radiographic and incident symptomatic knee OA, mean ± SD ages were 62.4 ± 8.0 years and 62.3 ± 8.0 years, respectively, and mean ± SD BMI scores were 30.6 ± 5.8 kg/m2 and 30.2 ± 5.5 kg/m2, respectively. Knee extensor strength and H:Q ratio at baseline significantly differed between men and women. Neither knee extensor strength nor the H:Q ratio was predictive of incident radiographic tibiofemoral OA. Compared with the lowest tertile, the highest tertile of knee extensor strength protected against development of incident symptomatic whole knee OA in both sexes (adjusted odds ratio 0.5–0.6). H:Q ratio was not predictive of incident symptomatic whole knee OA in either sex.

Conclusion

Thigh muscle strength does not appear to predict incident radiographic OA, but does seem to predict incident symptomatic knee OA.
Evaluation of a novel 7‐joint ultrasound score in daily rheumatologic practice: A pilot project
Authors: Backhaus M. , Ohrndorf S. , Kellner H. , Strunk J. , Backhaus T. M. , Hartung W. , Sattler H. , Albrecht K. , Kaufmann J. , Becker K. , Sörensen H. , Meier L. , Burmester G. R. , Schmidt W. A.
Published: August 2009

Objective

To introduce a new standardized ultrasound score based on 7 joints of the clinically dominant hand and foot (German US7 score) implemented in daily rheumatologic practice.

Methods

The ultrasound score included the following joints of the clinically dominant hand and foot: wrist, second and third metacarpophalangeal and proximal interphalangeal, and second and fifth metatarsophalangeal joints. Synovitis and synovial/tenosynovial vascularity were scored semiquantitatively (grade 0–3) by gray‐scale (GS) and power Doppler (PD) ultrasound. Tenosynovitis and erosions were scored for presence. The scoring range was 0–27 for GS synovitis, 0–39 for PD synovitis, 0–7 for GS tenosynovitis, 0–21 for PD tenosynovitis, and 0–14 for erosions. Patients with arthritis were examined at baseline and after the start or change of disease‐modifying antirheumatic drug (DMARD) and/or tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα) inhibitor therapy 3 and 6 months later. C‐reactive protein level, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, rheumatoid factor, anti–cyclic citrullinated peptide, Disease Activity Score in 28 joints (DAS28), and radiographs of the hands and feet were performed.

Results

One hundred twenty patients (76% women) with rheumatoid arthritis (91%) and psoriatic arthritis (9%) were enrolled. In 52 cases (43%), erosions were seen in radiography at baseline. Patients received DMARDs (41%), DMARDs plus TNFα inhibitors (41%), or TNFα inhibitor monotherapy (18%). At baseline, the mean DAS28 was 5.0 and the synovitis scores were 8.1 in GS ultrasound and 3.3 in PD ultrasound. After 6 months of therapy, the DAS28 significantly decreased to 3.6 (Δ = 1.4), and the GS and PD ultrasound scores significantly decreased to 5.5 (−32%) and 2.0 (−39%), respectively.

Conclusion

The German US7 score is a viable tool for examining patients with arthritis in daily rheumatologic practice because it significantly reflects therapeutic response.
A phase II, randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, dose‐ranging study of belimumab in patients with active systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Wallace Daniel J. , Stohl William , Furie Richard A. , Lisse Jeffrey R. , McKay James D. , Merrill Joan T. , Petri Michelle A. , Ginzler Ellen M. , Chatham W. Winn , McCune W. Joseph , Fernandez Vivian , Chevrier Marc R. , Zhong Z. John , Freimuth William W.
Published: August 2009

Objective

To assess the safety, tolerability, biologic activity, and efficacy of belimumab in combination with standard of care therapy (SOC) in patients with active systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).

Methods

Patients with a Safety of Estrogens in Lupus Erythematosus: National Assessment (SELENA) version of the Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Disease Activity Index (SLEDAI) score ≥4 (n = 449) were randomly assigned to belimumab (1, 4, or 10 mg/kg) or placebo in a 52‐week study. Coprimary end points were the percent change in the SELENA–SLEDAI score at week 24 and the time to first SLE flare.

Results

Significant differences between the treatment and placebo groups were not attained for either primary end point, and no dose response was observed. Reductions in SELENA–SLEDAI scores from baseline were 19.5% in the combined belimumab group versus 17.2% in the placebo group. The median time to first SLE flare was 67 days in the combined belimumab group versus 83 days in the placebo group. However, the median time to first SLE flare during weeks 24–52 was significantly longer with belimumab treatment (154 versus 108 days; P = 0.0361). In the subgroup (71.5%) of serologically active patients (antinuclear antibody titer ≥1:80 and/or anti–double‐stranded DNA [anti‐dsDNA] ≥30 IU/ml), belimumab treatment resulted in significantly better responses at week 52 than placebo for SELENA–SLEDAI score (−28.8% versus −14.2%; P = 0.0435), physician's global assessment (−32.7% versus −10.7%; P = 0.0011), and Short Form 36 physical component score (+3.0 versus +1.2 points; P = 0.0410). Treatment with belimumab resulted in a 63–71% reduction of naive, activated, and plasmacytoid CD20+ B cells, and a 29.4% reduction in anti‐dsDNA titers (P = 0.0017) by week 52. The rates of adverse events and serious adverse events were similar in the belimumab and placebo groups.

Conclusion

Belimumab was biologically active and well tolerated. The effect of belimumab on the reduction of SLE disease activity or flares was not significant. However, serologically active SLE patients responded significantly better to belimumab therapy plus SOC than to SOC alone.
Do psychological characteristics predict response to exercise and advice for subacute low back pain?
Authors: Smeets Rob J. E. M. , Maher Chris G. , Nicholas Michael K. , Refshauge Kathy M. , Herbert Robert D.
Published: August 2009

Objective

To determine whether psychological characteristics predict outcome and/or response to physiotherapist‐directed exercise‐ or advice‐based treatment of subacute low back pain.

Methods

We conducted a secondary analysis of a factorial, placebo‐controlled trial (n = 259). The psychological characteristics were catastrophizing, coping, pain self‐efficacy, fear of injury/movement, depression, anxiety, and stress. We used mixed models to predict pain and function outcomes (both scored on a 0–10 scale). The models include a term for treatment group, a term for the psychological characteristic (which tested prediction of outcome), and an interaction term between the treatment group and psychological characteristic (which tested treatment effect modification). To aid the interpretation of the magnitude of the effect modification, we calculated the change in outcome for a 1 SD increase of the baseline score of the putative effect modifier. A ≥1.5‐point change of the outcome of interest per 1 SD change of putative effect modifier was regarded as clinically important.

Results

All of the psychological characteristics except coping predicted outcome, but none appeared to be important treatment effect modifiers. Only 5 of the 56 tests of treatment modification were statistically significant, and none of the 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) for the interactions included clinically important effects. For example, a 1 SD higher baseline level of anxiety was associated with a 0.62 (95% CI 0.10, 1.15) additional effect of exercise on function at 52 weeks.

Conclusion

Most of the psychological characteristics we tested predicted outcome, but none predicted response to physiotherapist‐guided exercise and/or advice.
Frequency and determinants of flare and persistently active disease in systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Nikpour Mandana , Urowitz Murray B. , Ibañez Dominique , Gladman Dafna D.
Published: August 2009

Objective

Selection of flare as the primary outcome variable in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) clinical trials fails to capture patients with persistently active disease (PAD). We sought to elucidate the frequency and determinants of flare and PAD.

Methods

Prospectively collected data from the Toronto Lupus Cohort were used to determine the incidence of flare and PAD in 2004 and 2005. Flare was defined as an increase in SLE Disease Activity Index 2000 update (SLEDAI‐2K) score of ≥4 from the previous visit. PAD was defined as a SLEDAI‐2K score of ≥4, excluding serology alone, on ≥2 consecutive visits. Data from 1, 2, and 3 years prior were used to model flare and PAD in 2004. Model properties were tested for prediction of flare and PAD in 2005.

Results

One‐third of the patients had ≥1 flare, whereas nearly half experienced PAD in a given year. Nearly 60% of the patients had episodes of flare or PAD per year. At least 25% of patients had PAD without achieving the definition of flare. In the best‐fitting model, predictors of PAD in 2004 were SLEDAI‐2K score at the start of the outcome interval and prior cutaneous or musculoskeletal disease activity. This model gave 79% correct prediction of PAD in 2005. In contrast, flare prediction models performed poorly.

Conclusion

Persistent activity is a common disease state in SLE and should be an outcome variable in SLE clinical trials. Our PAD prediction model may aid prognostication and selection of patients for inclusion in clinical trials.
MicroRNA‐140 is expressed in differentiated human articular chondrocytes and modulates interleukin‐1 responses
Authors: Miyaki Shigeru , Nakasa Tomoyuki , Otsuki Shuhei , Grogan Shawn P. , Higashiyama Reiji , Inoue Atsushi , Kato Yoshio , Sato Tempei , Lotz Martin K. , Asahara Hiroshi
Published: August 2009

Objective

MicroRNA (miRNA) are a class of noncoding small RNAs that act as negative regulators of gene expression. MiRNA exhibit tissue‐specific expression patterns, and changes in their expression may contribute to pathogenesis. The objectives of this study were to identify miRNA expressed in articular chondrocytes, to determine changes in osteoarthritic (OA) cartilage, and to address the function of miRNA‐140 (miR‐140).

Methods

To identify miRNA specifically expressed in chondrocytes, we performed gene expression profiling using miRNA microarrays and quantitative polymerase chain reaction with human articular chondrocytes compared with human mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). The expression pattern of miR‐140 was monitored during chondrogenic differentiation of human MSCs in pellet cultures and in human articular cartilage from normal and OA knee joints. We tested the effects of interleukin‐1β (IL‐1β) on miR‐140 expression. Double‐stranded miR‐140 (ds–miR‐140) was transfected into chondrocytes to analyze changes in the expression of genes associated with OA.

Results

Microarray analysis showed that miR‐140 had the largest difference in expression between chondrocytes and MSCs. During chondrogenesis, miR‐140 expression in MSC cultures increased in parallel with the expression of SOX9 and COL2A1. Normal human articular cartilage expressed miR‐140, and this expression was significantly reduced in OA tissue. In vitro treatment of chondrocytes with IL‐1β suppressed miR‐140 expression. Transfection of chondrocytes with ds–miR‐140 down‐regulated IL‐1β–induced ADAMTS5 expression and rescued the IL‐1β–dependent repression of AGGRECAN gene expression.

Conclusion

This study shows that miR‐140 has a chondrocyte differentiation–related expression pattern. The reduction in miR‐140 expression in OA cartilage and in response to IL‐1β may contribute to the abnormal gene expression pattern characteristic of OA.
Urinary CD4+ effector memory T cells reflect renal disease activity in antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody–associated vasculitis
Authors: Abdulahad Wayel H. , Kallenberg Cees G. M. , Limburg Pieter C. , Stegeman Coen A.
Published: August 2009

Objective

Numbers of circulating CD4+ effector memory T cells are proportionally increased in patients with proteinase 3 antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody–associated vasculitis (AAV) whose disease is in remission and are decreased during active disease, which presumably reflects their migration toward sites of inflammation. Since renal infiltrating cells may appear in urine, we investigated the presence of CD4+ effector memory T cells in urinary sediment as a reflection of renal disease activity in AAV.

Methods

CD4+ effector memory (CD45RO+CCR7−CD3+CD4+) T cells were quantitated in the urine and peripheral blood of patients with AAV with renal involvement (n = 33), patients with AAV without renal involvement (n = 18), patients with AAV whose disease was in remission (n = 29), and patients with active disease (n = 22), using 4‐color flow cytometric analysis. Numbers and percentages of urine CD4+ effector memory T cells in 12 patients with AAV with active renal disease were obtained over several weeks of followup during remission induction.

Results

A notable increase in urine CD4+ effector memory T cell numbers was observed in patients with active renal AAV compared with patients whose disease was in remission and patients with active disease without renal involvement. The increase in these cells in the urine of patients with active renal AAV was accompanied by a reciprocal decrease in these cells in peripheral blood. Results from followup analysis showed a clear reduction in urine CD4+ effector memory T cells following treatment. Moreover, a negative correlation was observed between percentages of circulating and urine CD4+ effector memory T cells, consistent with their migration toward sites of inflammation.

Conclusion

Our findings indicate that the presence of CD4+ effector memory T cells in urine reflects renal involvement in AAV. Flow cytometric analysis of these cells in urine may contribute to assessing renal disease activity in patients with AAV.
Reevaluation of the interaction between HLA–DRB1 shared epitope alleles, PTPN22, and smoking in determining susceptibility to autoantibody‐positive and autoantibody‐negative rheumatoid arthritis in a large UK Caucasian population
Authors: Morgan Ann W. , Thomson Wendy , Martin Stephen G. ,   Yorkshire Early Arthritis Register Consortium, Carter Angela M. ,   UK Rheumatoid Arthritis Genetics Consortium, Erlich Henry A. , Barton Anne , Hocking Lynne , Reid David M. , Harrison Pille , Wordsworth Paul , Steer Sophia , Worthington Jane , Emery Paul , Wilson Anthony G. , Barrett Jennifer H.
Published: August 2009

Objective

To define interactions between the HLA–DRB1 shared epitope (SE), PTPN22, and smoking in cyclic citrullinated peptide (CCP) antibody– and rheumatoid factor (RF)–positive and –negative rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

Methods

Data on ∼5,000 RA patients and ∼3,700 healthy controls recruited from 6 centers in the UK were analyzed; not all centers had both genotype data and smoking data available for study. The magnitude of association was assessed in autoantibody‐positive and ‐negative subgroups. The effect of smoking on antibody status among cases was assessed following adjustment for year of birth and center, using Mantel‐Haenszel analysis. Analyses of the combined effects of PTPN22, HLA–DRB1 SE, and smoking were performed using additive and multiplicative models of interaction within a logistic regression framework.

Results

The combined effects of PTPN22, HLA–DRB1 SE, and smoking were defined, with no evidence of departure from a multiplicative model. Within the case population, all 3 factors were independently associated with the generation of CCP antibodies (odds ratio [OR] 11.1, P < 0.0001), whereas only HLA–DRB1 SE and smoking were independently associated with RF production (OR 4.4, P < 0.0001). There was some evidence of increasing likelihood of antibody positivity with heavier smoking. Finally, we demonstrated that smoking was associated with the generation of both CCP and RF antibodies (OR 1.7, P = 0.0001).

Conclusion

PTPN22 appears to be primarily associated with anticitrulline autoimmunity, whereas HLA–DRB1 SE is independently associated with RF. This study has confirmed associations of specific gene–environment combinations with a substantially increased risk of developing RA. Further work is needed to determine how these data can be used to inform clinical practice.