bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Conceptual and Textual Chaining in Qur'anic Discourse
Authors: Abdul-Raof Hussein
Published: August 2010

Chaining is a linguistic mechanism that is concerned with the construction of texts, their textuality and their network of semantic relations. It is concerned with the practical investigation of the constituent units of a given text of any length. This means that we can carry out an in-depth textual analysis of the text at the level of all units of language – morpheme, word, sentence and paragraph levels. Chaining is also concerned with textual progression and processing. When projected onto Qur' anic discourse, chaining produces the Qur'anic text in an upside-down pyramid shape. Thus, there is more reason for the longest suras to be placed at the beginning and the shortest ones at the end. Looking at the upside-down pyramid text, we can appreciate why the Qur'anic message is concluded by monotheism (Q. 112) and divinity (Q. 114), while the wider top surface of the pyramid is the textual environment for lordship (Q. 1) and Islamic legal rulings (Q. 2, Q. 4, etc.), with numerous intervening leitmotifs that are conceptually and intertextually interrelated. Conceptual and intertextual chaining makes the text more accessible to the reader: it is not necessarily characterised by superfluous repetition, but rather is linguistically marked by a high degree of informativity.
Towards a Rhetorical Criticism of the Qur'an
Authors: Zebiri Kate
Published: August 2010

This article represents a tentative and preliminary investigation of the possibilities inherent in a new rhetorical criticism of the Qur'an, i.e. one that does not confine itself to any single tradition but is willing to draw on whatever resources may be deemed useful. It begins by showing why the Qur'an is particularly suited to a rhetorical approach, and goes on to discuss the scope and definition of rhetoric, and to give an overview of its conceptual development in both the Graeco-Roman and Arab-Islamic traditions. It then looks at the special relationship between religion and rhetoric and makes some comparative observations about the Bible and the Qur'an as potential objects of rhetorical criticism. Finally, there is a brief look at selected methodological issues which have particular relevance for the Qur'an: chronology, synchronicity versus diachronicity, the exegetical tradition and the Qur'anic stories (qiṣaṣ). While this article is mainly concerned with theoretical issues, it is to be hoped that some (including this author) will be encouraged to undertake the work of actually applying some of the principles of rhetorical criticism to the Qur'an in a more holistic way than has hitherto been attempted.
Terrorism: The Qur'anic View
Authors: al-Matrudi Abd al-Rahman
Published: August 2010

This paper discusses the concept of terrorism and Islam's stance regarding it, beginning with a linguistic definition of the term ‘terrorism’. The second section of the paper discusses the roots and evolution of terrorism in human society. The researcher alludes to some of the specific features of terrorism; the paper also attempts to uncover the causes behind this phenomenon. The third section of the paper focuses on terrorism from the Islamic point of view, beginning with the linguistic implications of the word as found in the Qur'an. The paper also discusses Islam's guidance regarding combating terrorism. The fourth section discusses the international stance concerning terrorism; the researcher indicates that, until the events of September 11 when the phenomenon of terrorism became an international issue, efforts to combat terrorism were based on localised problems. Finally, the paper offers some recommendations for combating terrorism.
Some Notes on the British Library's ‘Oldest Qur'an Manuscript’ (Or. 2165)
Authors: Dutton Yasin
Published: August 2010

Following the publication of the facsimile edition of MS Paris, Bibliothèque Nationale, Arabe 328a, a new publication has been added to the series, namely that of the first 61 folios of MS Or. 2165 in the British Library, London. This, too, has been hailed as one of the earliest Qur'ans in Europe, and a closer examination shows that it is very similar to MS Paris 328a in a number of respects. Not only are both manuscripts written in “Hijāzī” script on vertical format pages, but, more importantly, both manuscripts turn out to be written according to the reading of the Syrian reader Ibn cĀmir (d. 118/736) and to exhibit a verse-numbering pattern most closely related to that of Hims but also showing several marked anomalies. These “Syrian” features, together with the early handwriting, suggest that both manuscripts were copied in Syria at an early date, most probably when the caliphate had its seat in Syria, i.e. during the Umayyad period. Thus, once again, the identification of such features helps in ascertaining both the provenance and date of such manuscripts, as it also fleshes out with documentary evidence the information given in the traditional literature on the subject.
Sūrat Āl cImrān and Those with the Greatest Claim to Abraham
Authors: Robinson Neal
Published: August 2010

After outlining the structure of the sura, the author focuses on vv. 64–99. He argues that these verses constitute a distinct sub-section that deals with the religion of Abraham. Having determined the precise extent of the sub-section, he discusses its opening verse in detail. He then lists the principal parallels between vv. 64–99 and Sūrat al-Baqara and suggests that the most plausible explanation of the parallels is that the subsection deliberately echoes that of Sūrat al-Baqara because it sets out to answer Jewish and Christian objections to some of the statements it contains. This leads to the examination of four issues that are foregrounded in the sub-section: Abraham's religious identity, prophetology and angelology, dietary regulations, and the identity of the Abrahamic sanctuary. In each case, the author draws on the Bible and Jewish and Christian literature in order to suggest the nature of the objections and to shed light on the way that the Qur'an responds to them. Like the objections themselves, the answers given are based on the interpretation of biblical texts. There is, however, one issue that cannot be dealt with in this way: the controversial claim that Muḥammad was the Messenger whom Abraham had prayed God would send to his progeny. In the final section of the article, the author shows how the liturgical character of Sūrat Āl cImrān encourages belief in the veracity of this claim.
The Legally Acceptable Methods of Spending (al-infāq) According to the Qur'an
Authors: Muḥammad cAli Idrīs Ḥāmid
Published: August 2010

This study explores the concept of spending (al-infāq) in the Qur'an, which occurs in 234 verses within 57 suras, i.e. half of the total number of suras in the Qur'an. Each of these verses mentions either the actual term infāq (spending), or one of the following: zakā (alms tax), ṣadaqāt (charitable donations), al-qarḍ al-ḥasan (interest-free loans) or iṭcām (the giving of food). These Qur'anic verses call for, order or request that spending be practised; alternately they warn those who neglect infāq.

This paper also addresses, through the analysis of related Meccan and Medinan verses, a number of legal issues related to infāq and the methods of carrying this out.
The Qur'an, Faith and the Impact of the Feminist Interpretative Movement on the Arabic Text and its Legacy
Authors: al-Shafīe Hassan
Published: August 2010

The present study discusses the cultural and intellectual movement, now on the point of prevalence in the contemporary Islamic world, which adopts the Western ‘hermeneutical method’ and applies it to the Qur'an in particular, and Islamic religious texts in general. The author shows this movement's complete disregard for the established principles of tafsīr, the traditional Arab-Islamic rules of Qur'anic interpretation and the related Prophetic aḥādīth as preserved in the authenticated Sunna.

The author argues that the ‘hermeneutical method’ starts from the preconceived notion that the Islamic heritage is male-centred and biased against women, both theoretically and practically, and, on this basis, proposes that the time has come for an intellectual break with this premise and the re-interpretation of the Qur'an and faith in the light of Western Christian hermeneutics. This paper proposes that this method fails to take historical events and the civilisational Islamic experience into account.
Aḣmad Ibn Ḣanbal and the Qur'an
Authors: Melchert Christopher
Published: August 2010

Aḥmad ibn Ḥanbal (d. Baghdad, 241/855) was the central, defining figure of Sunnism in the earlier ninth century CE. He was a major collector and critic of ḥadīth, as well as stories of early renunciants, and his collected opinions would form the literary basis of the Ḥanbalī school of law. Men would assert as a badge of orthodoxy that their creed was Aḥmad's (e.g. Muzanī, Ṭabirī, Ashcarī). He famously resisted the Inquisition of Maↄmūn and his successors, refusing to acknowledge that the Qur'an was created.

Aḥmad's ideas about the Qur'an are found in collections of his answers to questions (masāↄil), in biographies (both of him personally and of his followers), and in his Musnad. They show a devotion above all to the liturgical use of the Qur'an; for example, how it should be recited aloud, how it should be integrated with the ritual prayer. He did not tend to infer the law directly from the Qur'an, but from ḥadīth, and put together his own version of the text (qirāↄa), although it is not preserved. (The report that he assembled a huge Qur'anic commentary is doubtful.) Therefore, it was not mainly as a record of Islamic law that Aḥmad defended the transcendence of the Qur'an but more directly as the basis of fslamic piety.
Ritual Poeticity in the Qur'an: Family Resemblances, Features, Functions and Appraisals
Authors: Hoffmann Thomas
Published: August 2010

The literary status and function of the Qur'an form the general point of departure for a specific investigation of its poetic status and function. Firstly, it is argued that the notions of family resemblance and prototypicality prove constructive in describing a particular blend of crucial Qur'anic textual features, which could be subsumed under the notion of ritual poeticity, i.e. language proto-typical to so-called ritual and poetic language. Secondly, the Qur'anic features are listed within the compass of comparative evidence. Thirdly, I reflect upon the function of Qur'anic ritual poeticity with the fourth and final intention of making a critical appraisal of some of its ‘virtues’, faḍāↄil, and evaluating its use of what some linguists have identified as ‘authoritarian’ rhetorical devices.
Werner et al. Identification of Insulin-Like Growth Factor-I Receptor (IGF-IR) Gene Promoter-Binding Proteins in Estrogen Receptor (ER)-Positive and ER-Depleted Breast Cancer Cells
Authors: Sarfstein Rive , Belfiore Antonino , Werner Haim
Published: August 2010

We have found a mistake in our paper recently published in Cancers [1]. [...]
Attractive "Quiet" Courtyards: A Potential Modifier of Urban Residents' Responses to Road Traffic Noise?
Authors: Gidlöf-Gunnarsson Anita , Öhrström Evy
Published: August 2010

The present paper explores the influence of the physical environmental qualities of “quiet” courtyards (degree of naturalness and utilization) on residents’ noise responses. A questionnaire study was conducted in urban residential areas with road-traffic noise exposure between LAeq,24h 58 to 68 dB at the most exposed façade. The dwellings had “quiet” indoor section/s and faced a “quiet” outdoor courtyard (LAeq,24h < 48 dB façade reflex included). Data were collected from 385 residents and four groups were formed based on sound-level categories (58–62 and 63–68 dB) and classification of the “quiet” courtyards into groups with low and high physical environmental quality. At both sound-level categories, the results indicate that access to high-quality “quiet” courtyards is associated with less noise annoyance and noise-disturbed outdoor activities among the residents. Compared to low-quality “quiet” courtyards, high-quality courtyards can function as an attractive restorative environment providing residents with a positive soundscape, opportunities for rest, relaxation and play as well as social relations that potentially reduce the adverse effects of noise. However, access to quietness and a high-quality courtyard can only compensate partly for high sound levels at façades facing the streets, thus, 16% and 29% were still noise annoyed at 58–62 and 63–68 dB, respectively. Implications of the “quiet”-side concept are discussed.
Evaluation of Antioxidant Potential of Lavandula x intermedia Emeric ex Loisel. 'Budrovka': A Comparative Study with L. angustifolia Mill.
Authors: Blažeković Biljana , Vladimir-Knežević Sanda , Brantner Adelheid , Štefan Maja Bival
Published: August 2010

A Croatian indigenous cultivar of lavandin, Lavandula x intermedia 'Budrovka' (Lamiaceae) was studied for the phenolic acids, flavonoids, anthocyanins, procyanidins and total tannins, as well as total polyphenols content, in the flower, inflorescence stalk and leaf ethanolic extracts. Antioxidant potentials on these plant part extracts were assessed by the DPPH free radical scavenging activity, iron chelating activity, reducing power, lipid peroxidation inhibition properties and total antioxidant capacity assays. All results were compared with those of Lavandula angustifolia, the only member of the Lavandula genus officially used in modern phytotherapy. Based on the results of our parallel study, we may suggest that Lavandula x intermedia 'Budrovka' is as potent an antioxidant as Lavandula angustifolia and the antioxidant activity of the Lavandula extracts is mainly due to the presence of rosmarinic acid. A good correlation was found between the polyphenol contents and antioxidant activities of the extracts
Screening of Natural Antioxidants from Traditional Chinese Medicinal Plants Associated with Treatment of Rheumatic Disease
Authors: Gan Ren-You , Kuang Lei , Xu Xiang-Rong , Zhang Yuan , Xia En-Qin , Song Feng-Lin , Li Hua-Bin
Published: August 2010

In order to find new sources of natural antioxidants, the antioxidant capacities of 50 medicinal plants associated with treatment of rheumatic diseases were systemically evaluated using the ferric-reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) and Trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity (TEAC) assays, and their total phenolic contents were measured by the Folin–Ciocalteu method. Their antioxidant activities of some of these plants were analyzed for the first time. The FRAP and TEAC assay results suggested that the antioxidant compounds in these plants possessed free radicals scavenging activity and oxidant reducing power. A positive linear correlation between antioxidant capacities and total phenolic contents implied that phenolic compounds in these plants could be the main components contributing to the observed activities. The results showed that Geranium wilfordii, Loranthus parasiticus, Polygonum aviculare, Pyrrosia sheaeri, Sinomenium acutum and Tripterygium wilfordii possessed the highest antioxidant capacities and total phenolic content among 50 plants tested, and could be rich potential sources of natural antioxidants.
Reexamination of a Meta-Analysis of the Effect of Antioxidant Supplementation on Mortality and Health in Randomized Trials
Authors: Biesalski Hans K. , Grune Tilman , Tinz Jana , Zöllner Iris , Blumberg Jeffrey B.
Published: August 2010

A recent meta-analysis of selected randomized clinical trials (RCTs), in which population groups of differing ages and health status were supplemented with various doses of b-carotene, vitamin A, and/or vitamin E, found that these interventions increased all-cause mortality. However, this meta-analysis did not consider the rationale of the constituent RCTs for antioxidant supplementation, none of which included mortality as a primary outcome. As the rationale for these trials was to test the hypothesis of a potential benefit of antioxidant supplementation, an alternative approach to a systematic evaluation of these RCTs would be to evaluate this outcome relative to the putative risk of greater total mortality. Thus, we examined these data based on the primary outcome of the 66 RCTs included in the meta-analysis via a decision analysis to identify whether the results provided a positive (i.e., benefit), null or negative (i.e., harm) outcome. Our evaluation indicated that of these RCTs, 24 had a positive outcome, 39 had a null outcome, and 3 had a negative outcome. We further categorized these interventions as primary (risk reduction in healthy populations) or secondary (slowing pathogenesis or preventing recurrent events and/or cause-specific mortality) prevention or therapeutic (treatment to improve quality of life, limit complications, and/or provide rehabilitation) studies, and determined positive outcomes in 8 of 20 primary prevention studies, 10 of 34 secondary prevention studies, and 6 out of 16 therapeutic studies. Seven of the eight RCTs with a positive outcome in primary prevention included participants in a population where malnutrition is frequently described. These results suggest that analyses of potential risks from antioxidant supplementation should be placed in the context of a benefit/risk ratio.
Allosteric Modulation of Muscarinic Acetylcholine Receptors
Authors: Jakubík Jan , El-Fakahany Esam E.
Published: August 2010

An allosteric modulator is a ligand that binds to an allosteric site on the receptor and changes receptor conformation to produce increase (positive cooperativity) or decrease (negative cooperativity) in the binding or action of an orthosteric agonist (e.g., acetylcholine). Since the identification of gallamine as the first allosteric modulator of muscarinic receptors in 1976, this unique mode of receptor modulation has been intensively studied by many groups. This review summarizes over 30 years of research on the molecular mechanisms of allosteric interactions of drugs with the receptor and for new allosteric modulators of muscarinic receptors with potential therapeutic use. Identification of positive modulators of acetylcholine binding and function that enhance neurotransmission and the discovery of highly selective allosteric modulators are mile-stones on the way to novel therapeutic agents for the treatment of schizophrenia, Alzheimer’s disease and other disorders involving impaired cognitive function.
A Novel Sensing Method and Sensing Algorithm Development for a Ubiquitous Network
Authors: Jabbar Hamid , Lee Sungju , Choi Seunghwan , Baek Seunghyun , Yu Sungwook , Jeong Taikyeong
Published: August 2010

This paper proposes a novel technique which provides energy efficient circuit design for sensors networks. The overall system presented requires a minimum number of independently communicating sensors and sub-circuits which enable it to reduce the power consumption by setting unused sensors to idle. This technique reduces hardware requirements, time and interconnection problems with a supervisory control. Our proposed algorithm, which hands over the controls to two software mangers for the sensing and moving subsystems can greatly improve the overall system performance. Based on the experimental results, we observed that our system, which is using sensing and moving managers, the four sensors required only 3.4 mW power consumption when a robot arm is moved a total distance of 17 cm. This system is designed for robot applications but could be implemented to many other human environments such as “ubiquitous cities”, “smart homes”, etc.
The Structure of Ca2+ Sensor Case16 Reveals the Mechanism of Reaction to Low Ca2+ Concentrations
Authors: Leder Lukas , Stark Wilhelm , Freuler Felix , Marsh May , Meyerhofer Marco , Stettler Thomas , Mayr Lorenz M. , Britanova Olga V. , Strukova Lydia A. , Chudakov Dmitriy M. , Souslova Ekaterina A.
Published: August 2010

Here we report the first crystal structure of a high-contrast genetically encoded circularly permuted green fluorescent protein (cpGFP)-based Ca2+ sensor, Case16, in the presence of a low Ca2+ concentration. The structure reveals the positioning of the chromophore within Case16 at the first stage of the Ca2+-dependent response when only two out of four Ca2+-binding pockets of calmodulin (CaM) are occupied with Ca2+ ions. In such a “half Ca2+-bound state”, Case16 is characterized by an incomplete interaction between its CaM-/M13-domains. We also report the crystal structure of the related Ca2+ sensor Case12 at saturating Ca2+ concentration. Based on this structure, we postulate that cpGFP-based Ca2+ sensors can form non-functional homodimers where the CaM-domain of one sensor molecule binds symmetrically to the M13-peptide of the partner sensor molecule. Case12 and Case16 behavior upon addition of high concentrations of free CaM or M13-peptide reveals that the latter effectively blocks the fluorescent response of the sensor. We speculate that the demonstrated intermolecular interaction with endogenous substrates and homodimerization can impede proper functioning of this type of Ca2+ sensors in living cells.
Safety and efficacy of rituximab in nonviral cryoglobulinemia vasculitis: Data from the French Autoimmunity and Rituximab registry
Authors: Terrier B. , Launay D. , Kaplanski G. , Hot A. , Larroche C. , Cathébras P. , Combe B. , de Jaureguiberry J. P. , Meyer O. , Schaeverbeke T. , Somogyi A. , Tricot L. , Zénone T. , Ravaud P. , Gottenberg J. E. , Mariette X. , Cacoub P.
Published: August 2010

Objective

Management of nonviral cryoglobulinemia vasculitis has yet to be defined. Rituximab has emerged as a novel and promising therapeutic alternative, but data are scarce. Our objective was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of rituximab in nonviral cryoglobulinemia vasculitis in off‐trial real‐life patients.

Methods

Prospective data from the French AutoImmunity and Rituximab (AIR) registry, which includes data on patients with autoimmune disorders treated with rituximab in off‐label conditions, were analyzed.

Results

Twenty‐three patients received treatment with rituximab for cryoglobulinemia vasculitis. Tolerance was marked by the occurrence of side effects in almost half of the patients, including severe infections in 6 (26%) of 23, with a rate of 14.1 per 100 patient‐years. These infections occurred in a particular subset of patients ages >70 years, with essential type II mixed cryoglobulinemia and renal failure with a glomerular filtration rate of <60 ml/minute, and receiving high‐dose corticosteroids. Three of these patients died. In contrast, clinical and immunologic efficacy was noted in all evaluable patients. Clinical relapses occurred in half of the patients after a median time of 13.5 months following rituximab administration, and were more frequent in patients refractory to previous immunosuppressive therapy than in previously untreated patients.

Conclusion

Data from the AIR registry show a dramatic efficacy and a steroid‐sparing effect of rituximab, but also show the occurrence of severe infections in elderly patients with renal failure and high‐dose steroids. The role of rituximab in nonviral cryoglobulinemia vasculitis remains to be defined in well‐designed randomized controlled trials.
Tocilizumab in refractory adult Still's disease
Authors: Puéchal Xavier , DeBandt Michel , Berthelot Jean‐Marie , Breban Maxime , Dubost Jean‐Jacques , Fain Olivier , Kahn Jean‐Emmanuel , Lequen Laurence , Longy‐Boursier Maïté , Perdriger Aleth , Schaeverbeke Thierry , Toussirot Eric , Sibilia Jean ,   Club Rhumatismes Et Inflammation
Published: August 2010

Objective

There is an unmet need for the treatment of adult Still's disease (ASD), the pathogenesis of which may involve interleukin‐6 (IL‐6). We report the first series of patients with ASD treated with tocilizumab (TCZ), a humanized anti–IL‐6 receptor antibody.

Methods

All ASD patients treated with TCZ in France between July 2006 and July 2009 after failure to all available therapies were included in this cohort study. The main outcome measures were the European League Against Rheumatism (EULAR) improvement criteria and resolution of systemic symptoms at the 3‐ and 6‐month followup periods.

Results

Fourteen patients with refractory ASD were included. At the start of TCZ treatment, despite a mean prednisone dosage of 23.3 mg/day, based on a 28‐joint count, mean tender joints were 10.5, mean swollen joints were 7.9, and the mean Disease Activity Score in 28 joints was 5.61. Recurrent systemic involvement, including fever and rash, was present in 7 patients. TCZ was administered at 5–8 mg/kg every 2 or 4 weeks (8 mg/kg/month, n = 9). Eleven patients successfully completed the 6‐month study; 1 withdrew due to necrotizing angiodermatitis, another due to chest pain at each TCZ infusion, and a third due to systemic flare. A good EULAR response was observed in 64% of patients (9 of 14) at 3 months and EULAR remission was observed in 57% (8 of 14) at 6 months. Systemic symptoms were resolved in 86% of patients (6 of 7). Moreover, corticosteroid dose was reduced by 56%. No other severe adverse effects occurred.

Conclusion

TCZ is a promising new treatment for ASD.
Course of dermal ulcers and musculoskeletal involvement in systemic sclerosis patients in the scleroderma lung study
Authors: Au Karen , Mayes Maureen D. , Maranian Paul , Clements Philip J. , Khanna Dinesh , Steen Virginia D. , Tashkin Donald , Roth Michael D. , Elashoff Robert , Furst Daniel E.
Published: August 2010

Objective

To evaluate changes in vascular and musculoskeletal involvement in subjects in the Scleroderma Lung Study, a multicenter, double‐blind, randomized, controlled trial comparing placebo treatment with oral cyclophosphamide (CYC) for 1 year in systemic sclerosis patients with interstitial lung disease. Subjects were then followed off the study agent for an additional 12 months.

Methods

The following parameters were noted at baseline and every 6 months for each patient: digital tip ulcers, other dermal ulcers, joint swelling, joint tenderness, large joint contractures, muscle tenderness, muscle weakness, oral aperture, hand extension, and fist closure.

Results

A total of 158 patients were enrolled from 13 centers in the US; 79 were randomized to the CYC group and 79 to the placebo group. There were no differences in dermal ulcer and musculoskeletal measures between the CYC and placebo groups at baseline and 12 and 24 months. Improvement in percent predicted forced vital capacity was associated with improvement in the Rodnan skin thickness score (P < 0.05) at 12 and 24 months, and with increased mean oral aperture at 24 months (P = 0.005).

Conclusion

These data document the frequency and course of these vascular and musculoskeletal features over time, therefore providing essential information for sample size calculations and magnitude of effect in future clinical trials. There was no treatment effect of CYC on the vascular and musculoskeletal features described.
Serum IgA rheumatoid factor and pyridinoline in very early arthritis as predictors of erosion(s) at two years: A simple model of prediction from a conservatively treated community‐based inception cohort
Authors: Loët Xavier Le , Brazier Michel , Mejjad Othmane , Boumier Patrick , Daragon Alain , Gayet Alain , Pouplin Sophie , Tron François , Zarnitsky Charles , Vittecoq Olivier , Menard Jean‐François , Fardellone Patrice
Published: August 2010

Objective

To identify, in conservatively treated, very early arthritis patients, predictors of ≥1 erosion(s) at 2 years, and to construct a prediction model.

Methods

Community‐based adults (n = 310) who had never taken disease‐modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) or steroids with swelling of ≥2 joints persisting for >4 weeks and lasting <6 months were recruited. Erosion status was assessed at 0, 6, 12, and 24 months; evaluations were comprised of clinical criteria (Disease Activity Score, Health Assessment Questionnaire), C‐reactive protein level, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, autoantibodies, bone and cartilage markers, hand densitometry, and HLA class II shared epitopes. Patients meeting American College of Rheumatology rheumatoid arthritis (RA) criteria or with undifferentiated arthritis (UA) were followed and treated conservatively: one‐third of RA patients and three‐fourths of UA patients received no DMARDs during 2 years; a biologic agent was given to 1.8% of the patients during the first year. The main judgment criterion was ≥1 erosion(s) at 2 years.

Results

At 2 years, 219 patients were assessed; 31.3% with RA and 10.6% with UA had ≥1 erosion(s). Logistic regression analysis at that time showed erosion(s) strongly associated with serum IgA rheumatoid factor (IgA‐RF) and pyridinoline levels for the 190 patients with no baseline erosions, with the corresponding receiver operating characteristic curve having an area under the curve of 0.77 (95% confidence interval 0.64–0.86). A prediction model was constructed with IgA‐RF thresholds of 5 and 25 IU/ml and a pyridinoline threshold of 10 nM/liter; odds ratios ranged from 1 for IgA‐RF <5 IU/ml and pyridinoline <10 nM/liter to 50.75 for the association of IgA‐RF ≥5 IU/ml and pyridinoline ≥10 nM/liter.

Conclusion

This model, using serum IgA‐RF and pyridinoline concentrations, was able to predict ≥1 erosion(s) at 2 years in very early arthritis patients.
Systematic review of the literature informing the systemic lupus erythematosus indicators project: Reproductive health care quality indicators
Authors: Gillis JoAnn Zell , Panopalis Pantelis , Schmajuk Gabriela , Ramsey‐Goldman Rosalind , Yazdany Jinoos
Published: August 2010

Objective

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) primarily affects women of reproductive age. Here we summarize the scientific evidence supporting recently developed quality indicators (QIs) pertaining to reproductive health.

Methods

We used a modification of the RAND/UCLA Appropriateness Method to develop QIs for SLE. We performed systematic reviews of the literature pertaining to each proposed indicator. Three indicators focusing on reproductive health were included in the final set. Relevant literature was presented to an expert panel, who rated the validity and feasibility of the indicators.

Results

Three QIs were rated as valid and feasible. These indicators specifically address laboratory testing during pregnancy in SLE, the treatment of antiphospholipid antibody syndrome, and counseling for drugs with teratogenic potential.

Conclusion

We used a rigorous method to develop reproductive health QIs for SLE. In the future, these indicators can be used in the assessment and delivery of care to patients with SLE.
Insecticide use and risk of rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus erythematosus in the Women's Health Initiative Observational Study
Authors: Parks Christine G. , Walitt Brian T. , Pettinger Mary , Chen Jiu‐Chiuan , de Roos Anneclaire J. , Hunt Julie , Sarto Gloria , Howard Barbara V.
Published: August 2010

Objective

Farming and agricultural pesticide use has been associated with 2 autoimmune rheumatic diseases, rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). However, risk associated with other residential or work place insecticide use is unknown.

Methods

We analyzed data from the Women's Health Initiative Observational Study (n = 76,861 postmenopausal women, ages 50–79 years). Incident cases (n = 213: 178 for RA, 27 for SLE, and 8 for both) were identified based on self‐report and use of disease‐modifying antirheumatic drugs at year 3 of followup. We examined self‐reported residential or work place insecticide use (personally mixing/applying by self and application by others) in relation to RA/SLE risk, overall and in relation to farm history. Hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) were adjusted for age, race, region, education, occupation, smoking, reproductive factors, asthma, other autoimmune diseases, and comorbidities.

Results

Compared with never used, personal use of insecticides was associated with increased RA/SLE risk, with significant trends for greater frequency (HR 2.04, 95% CI 1.17–3.56 for ≥6 times/year) and duration (HR 1.97, 95% CI 1.20–3.23 for ≥20 years). Risk was also associated with long‐term insecticide application by others (HR 1.85, 95% CI 1.07–3.20 for ≥20 years) and frequent application by others among women with a farm history (HR 2.73, 95% CI 1.10–6.78 for ≥6 times/year).

Conclusion

These results suggest residential and work place insecticide exposure is associated with the risk of autoimmune rheumatic diseases in postmenopausal women. Although these findings require replication in other populations, they support a role for environmental pesticide exposure in the development of autoimmune rheumatic diseases.
Associations with digital ulcers in a large cohort of systemic sclerosis: Results from the Canadian Scleroderma Research Group registry
Authors: Khimdas Sarit , Harding Sarah , Bonner Ash , Zummer Brittany , Baron Murray , Pope Janet ,   Canadian Scleroderma Research Group
Published: August 2010

Objective

Digital ulcers are a common complication of systemic sclerosis (SSc; scleroderma). Approximately half of SSc patients have had a digital ulcer, but information is lacking on whether digital ulcers are associated with patient demographics and clinical outcomes. We wanted to determine the associations between digital ulcers and other SSc vascular complications and organ involvement.

Methods

Data from the Canadian Scleroderma Research Group are collected annually on SSc patients, including presence, location, and number of digital ulcers; complications from digital ulcers; internal organ involvement; skin score; and laboratory results. Correlation coefficients, chi‐square test, and logistic regression modeling were done to determine the associations of digital ulcers with other factors, including internal organ complications.

Results

A total of 938 patients were included; 86% were women, the mean age was 55 years, the mean disease duration was 13.6 years, and 50% had limited cutaneous SSc. Eight percent had a digital ulcer currently and 44% had a digital ulcer ever; 53.1% had digital pitting scars. Digital ulcers were associated with increased modified Rodnan skin score (P = 0.0001), hand and finger skin score (P = 0.0001), Health Assessment Questionnaire score (P = 0.0001) and disease duration (P = 0.001), younger age of SSc onset (P = 0.0001), interstitial lung disease (ILD; P = 0.0001), and topoisomerase I (Scl‐70) antibodies (P = 0.0001) in limited and diffuse cutaneous SSc subsets. Digital ulcers were not associated with sex (P = 0.95), smoking (P = 0.9), pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH; P = 0.35), and scleroderma renal crisis (SRC; P = 0.569). Digital ulcers were further associated with reduced diffusing capacity for carbon monoxide (DLCO; P = 0.0001) and esophageal involvement (P = 0.0001) in diffuse cutaneous SSc only.

Conclusion

Digital ulcers are associated with worse disease, including skin and lung involvement, but are not associated with PAH and SRC. However, the low DLCO that is associated with SRC could represent ILD or microvasculopathy.
Cost‐effectiveness of biologics in polyarticular‐course juvenile idiopathic arthritis patients unresponsive to disease‐modifying antirheumatic drugs
Authors: Ungar Wendy J. , Costa Vania , Hancock‐Howard Rebecca , Feldman Brian M. , Laxer Ronald M.
Published: August 2010

Objective

Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) is the most common chronic pediatric rheumatic disease and can have long‐term effects leading to disability in adulthood. Biologics are a new class of drugs increasingly used to treat JIA. The primary study objective was to determine the incremental costs of biologics per additional responder compared to conventional treatment (methotrexate).

Methods

A separate decision model was created for etanercept, infliximab, adalimumab, and abatacept. The study population consisted of polyarticular‐course JIA patients with a prior inadequate response or intolerance to disease‐modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs). The effectiveness measure was the proportion of patients who had a treatment response at 1 year according to the American College of Rheumatology (ACR) Pediatric 30 (Pedi 30) improvement criteria. Direct and indirect costs were calculated in 2008 Canadian dollars. Incremental cost‐effectiveness ratios and 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) were calculated for each biologic agent using probabilistic sensitivity analyses.

Results

The additional costs per additional ACR Pedi 30 responder at 1 year were $26,061 (95% CI $17,070, $41,834), $46,711 (95% CI $30,042, $75,787), $16,204 (95% CI $11,393, $22,608), and $31,209 (95% CI $16,659, $66,220) for etanercept, adalimumab, abatacept, and infliximab, respectively.

Conclusion

Biologics are more effective than methotrexate in achieving a short‐term response in JIA patients with prior inadequate responses to DMARDs; however, this comes at a high annual cost. Adequate long‐term data with respect to both safety and effectiveness are not currently available, nor are utility estimates. Such data will be important to estimate value for money for treating JIA with biologic drugs over the long term.
Robust adaptive MPC for constrained uncertain nonlinear systems
Authors: Adetola Veronica , Guay Martin
Published: August 2010

In this paper, we consider the problem of adaptive model predictive control subject to exogenous disturbances. Using a novel set‐based adaptive estimation, the problem of robust adaptive MPC is proposed and solved for a class of linearly parameterized uncertain nonlinear systems subject to state and input constraints. Two formulations of the adaptive MPC routine are proposed. A general minmax approach is considered. A Lipschitz‐based formulation is also proposed. The closed‐loop robust stability of both approaches is demonstrated. The Lipschitz‐based approach avoids the need for a minmax optimization problem and is amenable to real‐time computation. A simple chemical reactor simulation example is presented that demonstrates the effectiveness of the technique. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
New Concepts and Applications in the Macromolecular Chemistry of Fullerenes
Authors: Giacalone Francesco , Martín Nazario
Published: August 2010

A new classification on the different types of fullerene‐containing polymers is presented according to their different properties and applications they exhibit in a variety of fields. Because of their interest and novelty, water‐soluble and biodegradable C60‐polymers are discussed first, followed by polyfullerene‐based membranes where unprecedented supramolecular structures are presented. Next are compounds that involve hybrid materials formed from fullerenes and other components such as silica, DNA, and carbon nanotubes (CNTs) where the most recent advances have been achieved. A most relevant topic is still that of C60‐based donor‐acceptor (D–A) polymers. Since their application in photovoltaics D–A polymers are among the most realistic applications of fullerenes in the so‐called molecular electronics. The most relevant aspects in these covalently connected fullerene/polymer hybrids as well as new concepts to improve energy conversion efficiencies are presented.

The last topics disccused relate to supramolecular aspects that are in involved in C60‐polymer systems and in the self‐assembly of C60‐macromolecular structures, which open a new scenario for organizing, by means of non‐covalent interactions, new supramolecular structures at the nano‐ and micrometric scale, in which the combination of the hydrofobicity of fullerenes with the versatility of the noncovalent chemistry afford new and spectacular superstructures.
Synthesis of heat exchanger networks at subambient conditions with compression and expansion of process streams
Authors: Wechsung Achim , Aspelund Audun , Gundersen Truls , Barton Paul I.
Published: August 2010

This article presents an optimization formulation for the synthesis of heat exchanger networks where pressure levels of process streams can be adjusted to improve heat integration. Especially important at subambient conditions, this allows for the interconversion of work, temperature, and pressure‐based exergy and leads to reduced usage of expensive cold utility. Furthermore, stream temperatures and pressures are tuned for close tracking of the composite curves yielding increased exergy efficiency. The formulation is showcased on a simple example and applied to a case study drawn from the design of an offshore natural gas liquefaction process. Aided by the optimization, it is demonstrated how the process can extract exergy from liquid nitrogen and carbon dioxide streams to support the liquefaction of a natural gas stream without additional utilities. This process is part of a liquefied energy chain, which, supplies natural gas for power generation while facilitating carbon dioxide sequestration. © 2010 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 2011
Photocatalytic hydrogen production from water with nonfood hydrocarbons as oxidizing sacrifice agents
Authors: Deguchi Seiichi , Takeichi Toshinori , Shimasaki Shoji , Ogawa Muneaki , Isu Norifumi
Published: August 2010

To enhance photocatalytic water splitting, various oxidizing sacrifice agents (OSA) have been added to the system in order to scavenge the coproduced O2, and, thus, to hinder the reverse reactions. In the aim of achieving carbon‐neutral photocatalytic water splitting, nonfood hydrocarbons of castor‐ and jojoba‐oils were evaluated as OSA. Moreover, various surfactants were tested as emulsifiers for W/O binary solution for promoting photocatalytic water splitting rate. Among the OSA used, the castor‐oil was found to be more suitable candidate compared to jojoba‐oil, which was attributed to its smaller carbon chain numbers of mainly 18. Without surfactants, around 20 vol %‐castor‐oil aqueous binary solution with TiO2/Pt(0.10 wt %) provided the highest water splitting rate of about 30 mL‐H2/(m2·h). Among tested surfactants, liquid‐detergent was the best due to its optical transparency. 40 vol %‐ or 60 vol %‐castor‐oil emulsion with a drop of liquid‐detergent resulted in a water splitting rate of 125 mL‐H2/(m2·h), which was four times greater that the aforementioned highest value. © 2010 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 2011
Particle grinding by high‐intensity ultrasound: Kinetic modeling and identification of breakage mechanisms
Authors: Raman Vinay , Abbas Ali , Zhu Wenting
Published: August 2010

High‐intensity ultrasound, is sought as a means to break particles. A horn‐type ultrasonic transducer is used to apply HIU into a suspension of alumina particles causing breakage to occur. The rate of particle breakage is monitored continuously via in‐line laser‐based particle chord length measurement. Kapur function analysis is used to arrive at the grinding kinetics under variations of ultrasonic power, particle loading, temperature of the suspension and particle size. The first Kapur function increases monotonically with increase in input ultrasonic power. Increasing temperature also increases the first Kapur function but an optimum in the range investigated (10–50°C) is observed near 25°C. An exponential relation is found for the variation of first Kapur function with particle size, this being unique to ultrasound‐mediated particle breakage. The breakage mechanism is attributed mainly to particle abrasion. Different breakage mechanisms are observed at different temperatures. © 2010 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 2011
Comprehensive evaluation of time‐to‐response parameter as a predictor of treatment failure following imatinib therapy in chronic phase chronic myeloid leukemia: Which parameter at which time‐point does matter?
Authors: Kim Dong Hwan (Dennis) , Sriharsha Lakshmi , Jung Chul Won , Kamel‐Reid Suzanne , Radich Jerald P. , Lipton Jeffrey H.
Published: August 2010

Early recognition of high‐risk patient is important to improve long‐term outcomes following imatinib therapy for chronic myeloid leukemia (CML). Some controversy surrounds the question, which of short‐term response parameters at which time‐point, including complete cytogenetic response (CCyR) or major molecular response (MMR) at 6 or 12 months, is the best predictor for treatment outcomes. In this comprehensive analysis, we adopted landmark analysis method, time‐dependent Cox's proportional hazard model, and receiver‐operating characteristics (ROC) method to analyze time‐to‐response parameter as predictor of long‐term outcomes in 187 chronic phase (CP) CML patients. Regardless of the methods of analysis, earlier achievement of short‐term response such as CCyR or MMR could predict the higher probability of achieving better interim outcome (such as treatment failure or loss of response [LOR]). Similar to the findings from other studies, our ROC analysis provided cutoff time points for MMR (18–36 months) and CCyR (6–12 months) that were the best predictors for LOR or treatment failure, which can be an indirect evidence supporting the ELN recommendation. The patient who achieves short‐term response rapidly will have a lower risk of losing response or failing after imatinib therapy in CML patients. Am. J. Hematol., 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Micrornas: Emerging key regulators of hematopoiesis
Authors: Havelange Violaine , Garzon Ramiro
Published: August 2010

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small noncoding RNAs that regulate gene expression by pairing with their target mRNAs, thereby inducing protein translation inhibition or/and mRNA degradation. There is now strong evidence that miRNAs play a crucial role in the regulation of hematopoiesis. Several groups have shown that miRNA expression change dynamically during hematopoietic differentiation and functional studies demonstrated that miRNAs control not only differentiation but also activity of hematopoietic cells by targeting transcription factors, growth factor receptors, and specific transcripts involved in the modulation of cellular responses to external stimuli. In this review, we will summarize the current knowledge of miRNA expression and function during hematopoiesis and discuss controversies and future directions. Am. J. Hematol., 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Expression profiling of cytogenetically normal acute myeloid leukemia identifies MicroRNAs that target genes involved in monocytic differentiation
Authors: Lutherborrow Mark , Bryant Adam , Jayaswal Vivek , Agapiou David , Palma Catalina , Yang Yee Hwa , Ma David D.F.
Published: August 2010

MicroRNAs are short ribonucleic acids (RNAs) that play an important role in many aspects of cellular biology such as differentiation and apoptosis, due to their role in the regulation of gene expression. Using microRNA microarrays, we characterized the microRNA gene expression of 27 patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) with normal cytogenetics, focusing on the microRNAs differentially expressed between the M1 and M5 French–American–British (FAB) subtypes. An accurate delineation of these two AML entities was observed based on the expression of 12 microRNAs. We hypothesized that these microRNAs may potentially be involved in the differentiation block of M1 blasts and consequently monocytic differentiation. Using publically available mRNA data and microRNA target prediction software, we identified several key myeloid factors that may be targeted by our candidate microRNAs. The expression changes of the candidate microRNAs during monocytic differentiation of AML cell lines treated with Vitamin D and phorbol 12‐myristate 13‐acetate were examined. All six candidate microRNAs were significantly down‐regulated over the time course by quantitative reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction suggesting a link between these microRNAs and monocytic differentiation. To further characterize these microRNAs, we confirmed by luciferase assays that these microRNA target several key myeloid factors such as MAFB, IRF8, and KLF4 identifying a possible mechanism for the control of differentiation by these microRNAs. Am. J. Hematol., 2011. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.