bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Between Response and Interpretation: Ideological Becoming and Literacy Events in Critical Readings of Literature
Authors: Pace Barbara G.
Published: March 2006

The study described in this article intended to discover how social processes can influence literary understandings and the development of critical readings of literature in the public space of a classroom. The author draws on Bakhtin's notion of “ideological becoming” to consider how dialogic exchanges focused on works of literature can support or subvert critical understandings. This cross‐case analysis illustrates how two women students changed their responses to a short story as they participated in postreading events in their literature class. The data suggest that one student whose initial response was critical of the status quo changed her thinking about the story and adopted a reading that reflected dominant ideologies. The results of this study suggest that literature teachers who introduce multiple perspectives need to have explicit strategies for supporting students' emerging critical perspectives.
Outsourcing and Digitized Work Spaces: Some Implications of the Intersections of Globalization, Development, and Work Practices
Authors: Smith Beatrice Quarshie
Published: March 2006

Drawing on an ongoing project examining the literacies prevalent at an outsourcing site, this article explores the changing nature of workplace practices enabled by new information and communication technologies. It also examines the complex geopolitical dynamics of these practices, the discourses of development, and globalization. The author identifies the tensions and contradictions that the demands for “new” work and new work practices create for communities as they seek access to the benefits of globalization.

The key arguments of the article are that

Cyber work and its practices in these new locations have social, cultural, and political implications

Workplace studies must move beyond studies of how technologies are shaping work in industrialized economies if we are going to understand work in the 21st century

Research and advocacy offers communities possibilities for creating work spaces that are helpful to sustainable development but which also mitigate some of the consequences of globalization
Rationale for Systematic Vocabulary Development: Antidote for State Mandates
Authors: Manzo Anthony V. , Manzo Ula C. , Thomas Matthew M.
Published: March 2006

The authors assert that vocabulary development is one of the most important things teachers can promote for students—cognitively, culturally, socially, and in preparation for standardized tests. A broad‐based review of the literature reveals solid reasons for using systematic vocabulary instruction, which is especially helpful with youngsters from second‐language or disenfranchised backgrounds. Yet, in U.S. schools, systematic instruction in vocabulary has been cyclical rather than sustained.

The authors note that learners from Latin‐language backgrounds likely have an unappreciated advantage in learning difficult words. The specialized, Latin‐derivative terms that occur infrequently in common usage tend to occur frequently on standardized tests.

Several research‐supported ways to improve vocabulary acquisition are highlighted, including one that uses a variation on signing. The authors offer a “community of language” approach and show how wide reading can be amplified by intentional, frequent, day‐to‐day use of specific terms by school faculty and staff.
Dialogic narratives of literacy, teaching, and schooling: Preparing literacy teachers for diverse settings
Authors: ROGERS THERESA , MARSHALL ELIZABETH , TYSON CYNTHIA A.
Published: March 2006

ABSTRACTS

In this study, we focus on the “dialogic narratives” (Bakhtin, 1981, 1986) of selected preservice teachers within an innovative teacher education program in the Midwestern U.S. that included community‐based internships. In particular, we examine how these students author their identities as literacy teachers within the context of a mediated seminar setting. Drawing on Bakhtin's theory of discourse, we analyzed students' dialogic narratives as a way to understand the construction of their professional identities within particular discursive moments. Our analyses illustrate how the students negotiated authoritative and internally persuasive discourses as they authored their own narratives, revealing the complexity of preparing teachers to become flexible cultural practitioners in diverse settings. We argue that immersing students in community based environments and providing spaces for dialogue offer promising strategies for complicating and deepening preservice teachers' understandings of, and approaches to, language and literacy education in relation to issues of cultural diversity and social justice.

[This article features supplementary online‐only material, including commentaries from Marilyn Cochran‐Smith and Allan Luke and Tara Goldstein, an annotated bibliography, and extensive data samples. See http:www.reading.orgLibraryRetrieve.cfmD10.1598RRQ.41.2.3&FRRQ‐41‐2‐Rogers‐supp_1.html.]
Rethinking the meaning of difference: Contemporary challenges for researchers and practitioners in literacy and language education
Authors: ECKERT LISA SCHADE , TURNER JENNIFER D. , ALSUP JANET , KNOELLER CHRISTIAN
Published: March 2006

Book reviewed in this article:

Handbook of Language and Literacy: Development and Disorders. Edited by C. Addison Stone, Elaine R. Silliman, Barbara J. Ehren, & Kenn Apel. 2004.
Reading Fluency Instruction: Moving Beyond Accuracy, Automaticity, and Prosody
Authors: Rasinski Timothy
Published: March 2006

Three key elements of reading fluency are accuracy in word decoding, automaticity in recognizing words, and appropriate use of prosody or meaningful oral expression while reading. These three components are a gateway to comprehension. Readers must be able to decode words correctly and effortlessly (automaticity) and then put them together into meaningful phrases with the appropriate expression to make sense of what they read.
Reading Adventures Online: Five Ways to Introduce the New Literacies of the Internet Through Children's Literature
Authors: Castek Jill , Bevans‐Mangelson Jessica , Goldstone Bette
Published: March 2006

The authors explore links between the Internet and children's literature and suggest ways to use the Internet effectively in instruction.
Oral Reading Fluency Norms: A Valuable Assessment Tool for Reading Teachers
Authors: Hasbrouck Jan , Tindal Gerald A.
Published: March 2006

In 1992, the authors collaborated to develop a set of norms for oral reading fluency for grades 2–5. Since then, interest in and awareness of fluency has greatly increased, and Hasbrouck and Tindal have collaborated further to compile an updated and expanded set of norms for grades 1–8.

This article discusses the application of these norms to three important assessment activities related to improving students' reading achievement:

Screening students for possible reading problems

Diagnosing deficits in students' fluency

Monitoring the progress of students receiving supplementary instruction or intensive intervention in reading

An overview of the history and purpose for developing measures of oral reading fluency is also presented.
Building Literacy Skills Across the Curriculum: Forging Connections With the Past Through Artifacts
Authors: Fuhler Carol J. , Farris Pamela J. , Nelson Pamela A.
Published: March 2006

A historical artifact has stories to tell. Using artifacts, from primary documents to objects that can be held in the hand, is a motivational strategy that brings a period of history to life. Motivated learners think critically, write, collaborate, develop research skills, and deepen knowledge about another time and place. In addition, they apply cognitive skills in using content area texts more effectively and efficiently.

Supported by a strong theory base, this approach of using artifacts makes wise use of classroom time. Both students and teachers will find that artifacts contribute to integrating and learning across the curriculum. Fiction and nonfiction titles along with relevant websites are tied to several accessible historical artifacts to model options for using this motivational approach in the classroom.
Associations among Listeria monocytogenes genotypes and distinct clinical manifestations of listeriosis in cattle
Authors: Pohl Mary Ann , Wiedmann Martin , Nightingale Kendra K.
Published: April 2006

Objective—To determine whether specific strains of Listeria monocytogenes, as determined by genetic characteristics and virulence phenotypes, were associated with distinct clinical manifestations of listeriosis in cattle and thus may potentially have tissue specificity.

Animals—32 cattle.

Procedure—DNA sequence data for the virulence genes actAand inlAwere used to infer the phylogeny of L monocytogenes and to test for positive selection. Isolates were screened for the presence or absence of internalin genes and assigned an internalin profile. Plaquing assays were performed to determine the relative cytopathogenicity of each isolate. Categorical data analyses were performed to describe associations among L monocytogenes genotypes, virulence phenotypes, and clinical manifestations of listeriosis.

Results—Results confirmed that L monocytogenes represents 2 deeply separated evolutionary lineages. Genes actA and inlA contained amino acid sites under positive selection, and specific residues at some sites were associated with lineage and manifestation of listeriosis. Whereas lineage I was clonal and predominantly composed of isolates from cases of encephalitis, lineage II was more genetically diverse and equally represented by isolates from cases of encephalitis versus septicemia and fetal infection. Lineage I isolates also had greater cytopathogenicity in vitro, compared with lineage II isolates.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results indicated that L monocytogenes virulence genes underwent positive selection that is consistent with the diversification of 2 evolutionary lineages: lineage I is clonal and associated with encephalitis, and lineage II is more genetically diverse and equally likely to cause both major forms of listeriosis in cattle.
Endotoxin-neutralizing activity of polymyxin B in blood after IV administration in horses
Authors: Morresey Peter R. , MacKay Robert J.
Published: April 2006

Objectives—To measure serum polymyxin B concentration after single and repeated IV infusions in horses.

Animals—5 healthy horses.

Procedures—In study 1, 1 mg (6,000 U) of polymyxin B/kg was given IV and blood samples were collected for 24 hours. In study 2, 1 mg of polymyxin B/kg was given IV every 8 hours for 5 treatments and blood samples were collected until 24 hours after the last dose. Polymyxin B concentration was measured as the ability to suppress nitrite production by murine macrophages stimulated with lipopolysaccharide and interferon-α. Urine was collected prior to the first drug infusion and 24 hours after the fifth drug infusion for determination of urinary γ-glutamyl transferase (GGT)to-creatinine ratios.

Results—In study 1, mean ± SEM maximal serum polymyxin B concentration was 2.93 ± 0.38 μg/mL. Polymyxin B was undetectable 18 hours after infusion. In study 2, maximal polymyxin B concentrations after the first and fifth doses were 2.98 ± 0.81 μg/mL and 1.91 ± 0.50 μg/mL, respectively. Mean trough concentration for all doses was 0.22 ± 0.01 μg/mL. A significant effect of repeated administration on peak and trough serum concentration was not detected. Urine GGT-to-creatinine ratios were not affected by polymyxin B administration.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Polymyxin B given as multiple infusions to healthy horses by use of this protocol did not accumulate in the vascular compartment and appeared safe. Results support repeated IV use of 1 mg of polymyxin B/kg at 8-hour intervals as treatment for endotoxemia.
Pharmacokinetics of methylprednisolone acetate after intra-articular administration and its effect on endogenous hydrocortisone and cortisone secretion in horses
Authors: Soma Lawrence R. , Uboh Cornelius E. , Luo Yi , Guan Fuyu , Moate Peter J. , Boston Ray C.
Published: April 2006

Objective—To determine the pharmacokinetics of methylprednisolone (MP) and develop a pharmacokinetic-pharmacodynamic model of the related changes in plasma concentrations of endogenous hydrocortisone (HYD) and cortisone (COR) following intra-articular administration of methylprednisolone acetate (MPA) in horses.

Animals—6 Thoroughbreds.

Procedures—In each horse, 200 mg of MPA was injected intrasynovially into a carpal joint, and plasma MP, HYD, and COR concentrations were determined via liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry.

Results—A 5-compartment pharmacokinetic-pharmacodynamic model was used to describe the concatenated changes in the plasma concentrations of MP, HYD, and COR and to estimate the instantaneous rate of endogenous HYD production. The median transfer half-life (t1/2t) of methylprednisolone from the joint to plasma and elimination half-life (t1/2e) from plasma were 1.7 and 19.2 hours, respectively. Maximum plasma concentration of methylprednisolone was 7.26 ± 3.3 ng/mL at 8 hours, which decreased to 0.11 ± 0.08 ng/mL at 144 hours after injection. At 3 hours after MPA administration, plasma COR and HYD concentrations were significantly decreased from baseline values (from 2.9 ± 0.28 ng/mL to 2.10 ± 1.0 ng/mL and from 61.1 ± 18.9 ng/mL to 25.7 ± 12.1 ng/mL, respectively).

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—The sensitivity of the analytic method used allowed complete description of the related kinetics of MP, HYD, and COR following intra-articular administration of MPA. A single intra-articular administration of MPA profoundly affected the secretion of HYD and COR in horses; secretion of endogenous corticosteroids remained suppressed for as long as 240 hours after injection.
Effects of ergotamine and ergovaline on the electromyographic activity of smooth muscle of the reticulum and rumen of sheep
Authors: McLeay Lance M. , Smith Barry L.
Published: April 2006

Objective—To investigate the effects of IV administration of ergotamine and ergovaline and intraruminal administration of ergotamine on electromyographic (EMG) activity of reticuloruminal smooth muscle in conscious sheep.

Animals—3 sheep with indwelling electrodes in the musculature of the reticulum and rumen.

Procedure—In a crossover design study, reticuloruminal motility before and after IV administration of ergotamine (5, 10, 20, and 40 nmol/kg) or ergovaline (2.5, 5, and 10 nmol/kg) was evaluated; EMG effects were compared with those of corresponding control treatments (IV administration of saline [0.9% NaCl] solution or acetone, respectively) in sheep. Ergotamine (800 nmol/kg) or water was also administered intraruminally and their effects compared.

Results—After IV administration of ergopeptides, vagally dependent cyclical A and B sequences of contraction of the reticulorumen were immediately inhibited, preceding increases in baseline EMG activity (tonus). The return of cyclical contractions was associated with an increase in contraction amplitude. The effects were dose dependent; administration of 40 nmol of ergotamine/kg resulted in responses that continued for 3 to 4 hours. The effects of intraruminal administration of ergotamine were variable; after 8 hours, EMG activity was increased from baseline for < 2 hours in 1 sheep, 10 hours in another, and > 15 hours in the third.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—In sheep, the effects of ergotamine and ergovaline on reticuloruminal motility after IV administration and the duration of responses following intraruminal administration suggest that disruption of digestion may occur in animals grazing endophyte-infected pasture that has a high ergopeptide content.
Evaluation of the urodynamic and hemodynamic effects of orally administered phenylpropanolamine and ephedrine in female dogs
Authors: Carofiglio Francesca , Hamaide Annick J. , Farnir Frédéric , Balligand Marc H. , Verstegen John P.
Published: April 2006

Objective—To compare the urodynamic and hemodynamic effects of different dosages of phenylpropanolamine and ephedrine and determine effective dosages in increasing urethral resistance in female dogs.

Animals—20 sexually intact female Beagles.

Procedure—Dogs were allocated into 4 groups and received phenylpropanolamine once, twice, or 3 times daily, or ephedrine twice daily, for 14 days. On days 0, 7, and 14, urethral pressure profiles were performed while dogs were anesthetized with propofol. Variables recorded included maximum urethral pressure, maximum urethral closure pressure, integrated pressure, functional profile length, anatomic profile length, plateau distance, distance before maximum urethral pressure, and maximum meatus pressure. Arterial and central venous pressures were measured before anesthetic induction and 10 and 35 minutes after induction.

Results—Administration of phenylpropanolamine once daily or ephedrine twice daily significantly increased maximum urethral pressure and maximum urethral closure pressure. Values for integrated pressure were significantly increased after 14 days of once-daily administration of phenylpropanolamine. Variables did not change significantly from day 7 to day 14. Diastolic and mean arterial blood pressures increased significantly during the treatment periods, and arterial pressure decreased during propofol infusion.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Oral administration of phenylpropanolamine once daily or ephedrine twice daily increased urethral resistance in clinically normal dogs and may be recommended for management of urethral sphincter mechanism incompetence. Treatment efficacy may be assessed after 1 week. Dogs with concurrent cardiovascular disease should be monitored for blood pressure while receiving α-adrenergic agents because of the effects on diastolic and mean arterial pressure.
Evaluation of the effects of stress in cats with idiopathic cystitis
Authors: Westropp Jodi L. , Kass Philip H. , Buffington C. A. T.
Published: April 2006

Objective—To determine the effects of stress in cats with feline idiopathic cystitis (FIC) by evaluating bladder permeability, sympathetic nervous system function, and urine cortisol:creatinine (C:Cr) ratios during periods of stress and after environmental enrichment.

Design—Prospective study.

Animals—13 cats with FIC and 12 healthy cats.

Procedure—Cats subjected to an acute-onset moderate stressor for 8 days received IV injections of fluorescein. Serum fluorescein concentrations were determined and compared with those of controls to evaluate bladder permeability, and urine C:Cr ratios were compared to evaluate function of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. Plasma catecholamine concentrations were analyzed in a subset of cats. After 8 days of moderate stress, cats were moved to an enriched environment, and tests were repeated after 21 days.

Results—Serum fluorescein concentrations were significantly higher in cats with FIC at all time points. In the cats in which plasma catecholamine concentrations were determined, concentrations of dihydroxyphenylalanine, norepinephrine, and dihyroxyphenylglycol were significantly higher in cats with FIC at all time points, whereas no differences in urine C:Cr ratio between groups were observed.

Conclusion and Clinical Relevance—Cats with FIC appeared to have altered bladder permeability, most notably during the period of initial stress. The increase in plasma dihydroxyphenylalanine concentration suggests that there may be stress-induced increase in the activity of tyrosine hydroxylase, which catalyzes the rate-limiting step in catecholamine synthesis. In contrast, no effects of stress on C:Cr ratios were observed, which suggests there was dissociation between the sympathetic nervous system and HPA-axis responses to stress.
Evaluation of surrogate markers for passive transfer of immunity in kittens
Authors: Crawford P. Cynda , Levy Julie K. , Werner Linda L.
Published: April 2006

Objective—To identify surrogate markers of passive transfer of immunity in kittens.

Design—Prospective clinical trial.

Animals—55 kittens from 12 specific-pathogen–free queens.

Procedure—Kittens were allocated at birth into colostrum-fed (n = 27) and colostrum-deprived (28) groups. Blood was collected at birth and on days 1, 2, 4, 7, 14, 28, and 56. Serum samples were analyzed for activities of alkaline phosphatase (ALP), alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, creatine kinase, lactate dehydrogenase, γ-glutamyltransferase, amylase, and lipase and for concentrations of albumin, total protein, bilirubin, urea nitrogen, creatinine, cholesterol, glucose, calcium, phosphorus, and triglycerides by use of an automated analyzer. Total serum solids concentrations were estimated by use of refractometry. Serum IgG concentrations were quantified by use of radial immunodiffusion.

Results—All kittens were agammaglobulinemic at birth. Colostrum-fed kittens had significantly higher IgG concentrations than did colostrum-deprived kittens from 1 though 28 days of age. Transient significant differences in serum biochemical variables between the colostrum-deprived and colostrum-fed groups were substantially resolved by day 4. Passive transfer of immunity could be reliably determined at 1 day of age and to a lesser extent at 2 days of age only by measurement of serum activity of ALP.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Adequacy of passive transfer in kittens initially correlated with serum activity of ALP, but quantification of serum IgG concentration was necessary after 2 days of age.
Measurement of Human Cytochrome P4501A2 (CYP1A2) Activity In Vitro
Authors: Polasek Thomas M. , Elliot David J. , Miners John O.
Published: March 2006

Cytochrome P4501A2 (CYP1A2) is responsible for the metabolism of a diverse range of clinically used drugs and dietary and environmental chemicals (including many procarcinogens). CYP1A2 expression is influenced by numerous factors, and hence wide interindividual variability is a characteristic feature of this enzyme in humans. Phenacetin represents a convenient probe for the assessment of human CYP1A2 activity in vitro (hepatic microsomes and recombinant enzyme). It is a relatively high‐turnover substrate that forms only one major primary metabolite, the O‐deethylated derivative acetaminophen. Acetaminophen formation in incubations of phenacetin with a CYP1A2 source is readily measured by HPLC with UV detection. The assay has a low requirement for human liver microsomes or recombinant enzyme, and is both selective and sensitive without the requirement for a solvent extraction step. Overall assay reproducibility is excellent, with coefficients of variation <4%.
Polyamides nanocapsules: Modeling and wall thickness estimation
Authors: Bouchemal K. , Couenne F. , Briançon S. , Fessi H. , Tayakout M.
Published: March 2006

This work provides a better understanding for effective control of the nanocapsules wall thickness. Polyamides based nanocapsules are prepared by interfacial polymerization combined with spontaneous emulsification. A clear guideline of how factors such as monomer concentration, diffusion, interfacial reaction, or water swelling influence the capsule formation is very important to the control of capsule wall structure and release performance. In this goal, the macroscopic planar models of the interfacial polycondensation between diethylenetriamine and sebacoyle chloride are studied experimentally and theoretically. This planar model is developed to examine the kinetics of the reaction and to perform the estimation of parameters thanks to the experiment measurements. The effect of the operating conditions on the wall thickness is also studied. The model is shown to be consistent with the experimental data. Next, the spherical model is deduced from the first one. The results obtained with this model are in accordance with some observations of wall thickness. From this model, the increase of the wall thickness is predicted for several operating conditions. © 2006 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 2006
Factor analysis of obsessive–compulsive disorder YBOCS‐SC symptoms and association with 5‐HTTLPR SERT polymorphism
Authors: Hasler Gregor , Kazuba Diane , Murphy Dennis L.
Published: March 2006

Symptoms defining obsessive–compulsive disorder (OCD) are diverse. Factor analyses of OCD symptoms have been used to evaluate obsessive–compulsive phenotypes that are thought to be more homogenous than the macro phenotype. There is evidence that three factors (symmetry/ordering, obsessions/checking, and hoarding) are familial and preliminary evidence that repetitive rituals are associated with a functional polymorphism in the promotor region of the serotonin transporter gene (5‐HTTLPR). The goal of this study was to examine relationships between OCD symptom dimensions and 5‐HTTLPR. We genotyped 153 subjects who met DSM‐IV criteria for OCD. We used the Yale‐Brown obsessive–compulsive scale symptom checklist (YBOCS‐SC) to assess OCD symptoms. Using principle components analysis, we derived four factors from the 13 symptom categories of the YBOCS‐SC in this patient sample, which replicated previous factor analyses of this scale. The frequencies of the S allele and the SS genotype were associated with the second factor including obsessions regarding symmetry and compulsions involving repeating, counting, and ordering/arranging. This study may contribute to understanding of molecular genetic features underlying the appearance of symptom clusters in OCD. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Evidence for monozygotic twin (MZ) discordance in methylation level at two CpG sites in the promoter region of the catechol‐O‐methyltransferase (COMT) gene
Authors: Mill Jonathan , Dempster Emma , Caspi Avshalom , Williams Benjamin , Moffitt Terrie , Craig Ian
Published: March 2006

Monozygotic (MZ) twin concordance for a range of psychiatric conditions is rarely 100%. It has been suggested that epigenetic factors, such as DNA methylation, may account for a proportion of the variation in behavioral traits observed between these genetically identical individuals. In this study we have quantitatively assessed the methylation status of two CpG sites in the promoter region of the COMT gene in 12 MZ twins‐pairs discordant for birth weight, but otherwise clinically unaffected. DNA was obtained at age 5‐years using buccal swabs, and modified using sodium‐bisulfite treatment. Methylation profiles were assessed using Pyrosequencing™, a technology enabling the precise degree of methylation to be assessed at any CpG site. We found that the degree of methylation at the two CpG sites was highly correlated, but there was considerable variation in the concordance of methylation levels between MZ twin‐pairs. Some MZ twin‐pairs showed a high degree of methylation concordance, whereas others differed markedly in their methylation profiles. Such epigenetic variation between genetically identical individuals may play a key role in the etiology of psychopathology, and explain the incomplete phenotypic concordance observed in MZ twins. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Association between the DRD2 A1 allele and response to methadone and buprenorphine maintenance treatments
Authors: Barratt Daniel T. , Coller Janet K. , Somogyi Andrew A.
Published: March 2006

The TaqI A polymorphism (A1) of the dopamine D2 receptor gene (DRD2), although not a specific predictor of opioid dependence, has been strongly associated with high levels of prior heroin use and poor treatment outcomes among methadone maintenance patients. The aims of this study were to confirm these findings via a retrospective analysis of A1 allele frequency in methadone (n = 46) and buprenorphine (n = 25) patients, and non‐opioid‐dependent controls (n = 95). Subjects were genotyped at the DRD2 TaqI A locus using PCR amplification followed by TaqI restriction enzyme digestion and gel electrophoresis. For methadone and buprenorphine subjects, heroin use (prior to treatment), treatment outcomes, and withdrawal occurrence were determined from comprehensive case notes. No significant differences in A1 allele frequency (%) were observed between: methadone (19.6%), buprenorphine (18.0%), and control (17.9%) groups (P > 0.7); successful and poor treatment outcome groups, methadone: 20.0% and 19.2%, respectively (P = 1.0); buprenorphine: 18.4% and 20.0%, respectively (P = 1.0). Also, there were no significant relationships between TaqI A genotype and prior heroin use (P = 0.47). However, among the successful methadone subjects, significantly fewer A1 allele carriers experienced withdrawal than non‐A1 carriers (P = 0.04). In conclusion, the DRD2 genotype effects did not affect opioid maintenance treatment outcomes. This suggests the need for a further prospective investigation into the role of the DRD2 A1 allele in heroin use and response to maintenance pharmacotherapies for opioid dependence. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Structure–property relationships for sulfonated poly(butylene terephthalate)
Authors: Chisholm Bret J. , Richards William D. , Banach Timothy E. , Soloveichik Sofia , Kelley James F. , Bradtke Greg R. , Dhawan Sandeep
Published: March 2006

Structure–property relationships have been developed for sulfonated poly(butylene terephthalate) copolymers. The compositional variables investigated were sulfonate content, molecular weight, and polymer endgroup composition, and the fundamental polymer properties evaluated were melt viscosity, crystallization kinetics, and impact strength. It was found that all compositional variables significantly affect all of the polymer properties of interest. The most interesting effect is the influence of polymer endgroup composition on polymer properties. The trends indicate that the carboxylic acid endgroups form intermolecular interactions with sodium sulfonate groups, resulting in a decrease in the strength of intermolecular ionic interactions between sodium sulfonate groups. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 100: 4662–4771, 2006
Growing up and moving on in rheumatology: Parents as proxies of adolescents with juvenile idiopathic arthritis
Authors: Shaw K. L. , Southwood T. R. , McDonagh J. E.
Published: March 2006

Objective

To examine agreement about physical health, functional ability, and health‐related quality of life (HRQOL) between adolescents with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) and their parents.

Methods

The study group comprised 303 adolescent‐parent dyads who completed individual questionnaires, including the Childhood Health Assessment Questionnaire with visual analog scales for pain and general well‐being, and the Juvenile Arthritis Quality of Life Questionnaire. Agreement was determined using the Bland and Altman method.

Results

Approximately half of the adolescent‐parent dyads showed clinically acceptable agreement for pain, general well‐being, functional disability, and HRQOL. Where discrepancies occurred, there were similar numbers of parental overestimation and underestimation, with the exception that parents rated functional ability worse than did adolescents. Parents were also consistent with respect to overestimation or underestimation, irrespective of the health domain in question. Agreement was associated with better disease‐related outcome variables, but was not significantly influenced by demographic factors. Agreement between adolescents and parents was dependent on the level of disease outcome and the health domain under scrutiny, and was less for moderate disease outcomes (as compared with mild or severe) and less visible phenomena (e.g., pain, global well‐being).

Conclusion

There is a wide variation in agreement between adolescents with JIA and their parents that is dependent on which health‐related variable is under scrutiny. Proxy report is likely to be valid for adolescents with JIA at either the mild or severe end of the spectrum and/or for the visible manifestations of the disease. Consideration of both adolescent and parent‐proxy reports is therefore important in future research.
Correlates of knee pain in older adults: Tasmanian older adult cohort study
Authors: Zhai Guangju , Blizzard Leigh , Srikanth Velandai , Ding Changhai , Cooley Helen , Cicuttini Flavia , Jones Graeme
Published: March 2006

Objective

To describe the association between chondral defects, bone marrow lesions, knee and hip radiographic osteoarthritis (OA), and knee pain.

Methods

Knee pain was assessed by the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index. T1‐ and T2‐weighted fat saturation magnetic resonance imaging was performed on the right knee to assess chondral defects and subchondral bone marrow lesions. Radiography was performed on the right knee and hip and scored for radiographic OA. Body mass index (BMI) and knee extension strength were measured.

Results

A total of 500 randomly selected men and women participated. The prevalence of knee pain was 48%. In multivariable analysis, prevalent knee pain was significantly associated with medial tibial chondral defects (odds ratio [OR] 2.32, 95% confidence interval [95% CI] 1.02–5.28 for grade 3 versus grade 2 or less; OR 4.93, 95% CI 1.07–22.7 for grade 4 versus grade 2 or less), bone marrow lesions (OR 1.44, 95% CI 1.04–2.00 per compartment), and hip joint space narrowing (OR 1.36, 95% CI 1.07–1.73 per unit), as well as greater BMI and lower knee extension strength. It was not significantly associated with radiographic knee OA. These variables were also associated with more severe knee pain. In addition, there was a dose response association between knee pain and number of sites having grade 3 or 4 chondral defects (OR 1.39, 95% CI 1.12–1.73 per site), with all subjects having knee pain if all compartments of the knee had these defects.

Conclusion

Knee pain in older adults is independently associated with both full and non–full‐thickness medial tibial chondral defects, bone marrow lesions, greater BMI, and lower knee extension strength, but is not associated with radiographic knee OA. The association between radiographic hip OA and knee pain indicates that referred pain from the hip needs to be considered in unexplained knee pain.
Effect of etanercept on fatigue in patients with recent or established rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Moreland Larry W. , Genovese Mark C. , Sato Reiko , Singh Amitabh
Published: March 2006

Objective

To assess the long‐term impact of etanercept on fatigue in patients with recent‐onset (mean duration 11 months) or established (mean duration 12 years) rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

Methods

Patients participating in either of 2 multicenter, randomized, double‐blind clinical trials were included. In one trial, patients with recent‐onset RA received either etanercept 25 mg twice weekly or methotrexate in a double‐blind fashion for 12 months, then open label for 12 months. All patients then received open‐label etanercept. In the second trial, patients with established RA received etanercept 25 mg or placebo twice weekly for 6 months in a double‐blinded fashion, then open‐label etanercept. Up to 46 months of followup data were included. Fatigue was measured regularly using the Health Assessment Questionnaire vitality domain.

Results

Patients with recent‐onset RA who received etanercept had a significantly faster improvement in fatigue than those receiving methotrexate in the first 2 months. Subsequently, patients receiving etanercept and methotrexate had 23–29% and 17–24% reductions in fatigue scores, respectively. In the group with established RA, patients who received etanercept had significantly greater reductions in fatigue than those receiving placebo during the blinded period. Patients initially receiving etanercept sustained a mean fatigue reduction of 25–36% for the entire followup. Patients achieving clinically meaningful improvement in fatigue were more likely to meet the American College of Rheumatology improvement criteria.

Conclusion

Etanercept therapy reduces fatigue in patients with recent‐onset or established RA. Improvement in fatigue was sustained for up to 46 months, and correlated with other RA‐relevant outcomes.
Level of agreement between children, parents, and physicians in rating pain intensity in juvenile idiopathic arthritis
Authors: Garcia‐Munitis Pablo , Bandeira Marcia , Pistorio Angela , Magni‐Manzoni Silvia , Ruperto Nicolino , Schivo Ambra , Martini Alberto , Ravelli Angelo
Published: March 2006

Objective

To investigate the level of agreement between patients, mothers, fathers, and physicians in rating pain intensity in juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA), and to identify factors explaining discrepancies between raters.

Methods

Ninety‐four children with JIA and their mothers and fathers were asked to rate independently the intensity of present pain and pain in the previous week on a visual analog scale. The physicians rated pain intensity after physical examination. Agreement between raters was determined using intraclass correlation coefficient and Bland and Altman method. Correlations of explanatory variables with discordance in rating pain intensity were determined by univariate and multivariate analyses. Explanatory variables included sex, age, JIA category, disease duration, results of study ratings, joint inflammation measures, and erythrocyte sedimentation rate.

Results

Agreement in rating present pain was moderate between children and mothers, but was poor between children and fathers and children and physicians. The agreement in rating pain in the previous week was moderate between children and mothers and children and fathers. Mother‐father agreement was good. Parents and physicians agreed at a moderate level. In multiple regression analyses, only intensity of present pain was significantly associated with discordance within child‐mother, child‐father, and child‐physician dyads.

Conclusion

Children's ratings of pain were only in moderate agreement with those of their parents and were in poor agreement with those of the physicians, whereas the father and mothers agreed at a good level. The intensity of pain was the strongest determinant of discordance between children and other raters.
Population impact of arthritis on disability in older adults
Authors: Song Jing , Chang Rowland W. , Dunlop Dorothy D.
Published: March 2006

Objective

Disability threatens the independence of older adults and has large economic and societal costs. This article examines the population impact of arthritis on disability incidence among older Americans.

Methods

The present study used longitudinal data (1998–2000) from the Health and Retirement Study, a national probability sample of elderly Americans. Disability was defined by the inability to perform basic activities of daily living (ADL). A total of 7,758 participants ages ≥65 years with no ADL disability at baseline were included in the analyses. Multiple logistic regression was used to measure the impact of baseline arthritis (self reported) on incidence of subsequent ADL disability after controlling for baseline differences in demographics, health factors, health behaviors, and medical access.

Results

Older adults who had baseline arthritis had a substantially higher incidence of ADL disability compared with those without arthritis (9.3% versus 4.5%). The strong relationship of arthritis and ADL disability was partially explained by demographic, health, behavioral, and medical access factors. However, even after adjusting for all other risk factors, arthritis remained as an independent and significant predictor for developing ADL disability (adjusted odds ratio 1.5, 95% confidence interval 1.2–1.8). Almost 1 in every 4 new cases of ADL disability was due to arthritis (adjusted population attributable fraction: 23.7%).

Conclusion

The high frequency of incident ADL disability attributable to arthritis points to the importance of intervention programs that address the entire spectrum of health and functional problems in persons with arthritis to prevent disability.
Cost of treatment of childhood‐onset systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Brunner Hermine I. , Sherrard Tina M. , Klein‐Gitelman Marisa S.
Published: March 2006

Objective

To determine the direct cost of care of children with childhood‐onset systemic lupus erythematosus (cSLE), and to determine the direct cost per quality‐adjusted life year (QALY) with cSLE.

Methods

Administrative databases from 2 large tertiary pediatric rheumatology centers in the United States were reviewed for all patients with cSLE (n = 119) diagnosed and regularly treated in these centers between January 2001 and April 2004. Health‐related quality of life estimates for patients with cSLE (n = 297) reported in the literature were used to calculate QALYs based on global health ratings of the Child Health Questionnaire (range 0–100).

Results

Information on 3,184 patient‐months of followup was included in the analysis. During a mean ± SD followup of 27 ± 11.8 months, the direct cost of care for the cohort amounted to $3,965,048, excluding outpatient medications. Irrespective of patient sex, the mean ± SD cost of cSLE per month was $1,245 ± $2,352, or ∼$14,944 per year. Inpatient and day hospital care accounted for 28% of the cost, laboratory testing accounted for 21%, inpatient/day‐patient medication costs accounted for 13%, and dialysis accounted for 11%. Visits to the rheumatology clinic only contributed 9% to the direct cost of care. When including an estimated outpatient medication cost of $1,190, the direct cost of cSLE per QALY was $30,908.

Conclusion

Children diagnosed with cSLE were found to have a considerable direct cost of care. The treatment of cSLE appears to be far more costly than that of adult SLE and juvenile idiopathic arthritis reported in the literature.
Reexamining the arthritis‐employment interface: Perceptions of arthritis‐work spillover among employed adults
Authors: Gignac Monique A. M. , Sutton Deborah , Badley Elizabeth M.
Published: March 2006

Objective

To examine employed individuals' perceptions of arthritis‐work spillover (AWS), the reciprocal influence of arthritis on work and work on arthritis, and the demographic, illness, and work context factors associated with AWS.

Methods

The study group comprised 492 employed individuals with osteoarthritis or inflammatory arthritis. Participants completed an interview‐administered, structured questionnaire assessing AWS, demographic (e.g., age, sex), illness (e.g., disease type, pain, activity limitations), and work context (e.g., workplace control, hours of work) variables. Principal components analysis, reliability analysis, and multiple linear regression were used to analyze the data.

Results

A single factor solution emerged for AWS. The scale had an internal reliability of 0.88. Respondents were more likely to report that work interfered with caring for their arthritis than they were to report that their disease affected their work performance. Younger respondents, those with more fatigue and workplace activity limitations, and those working in trades and transportation reported more AWS. Individuals with more control over their work schedules reported less AWS.

Conclusion

The results of this study extend research on arthritis by reexamining the interface between arthritis and employment. This study introduces a new measure of AWS that enhances the range of tools available to researchers and clinicians examining the impact of arthritis in individuals' lives.
Illness intrusion and psychological adjustment to rheumatic diseases: A social identity framework
Authors: Abraído‐Lanza Ana F. , Revenson Tracey A.
Published: March 2006

Objective

To examine the extent to which arthritis intruded upon 4 social roles (spouse, homemaker, parent, worker). In accordance with propositions set forth by social identity theory and the identity‐relevant stress hypothesis, we hypothesized that 1) illness intrusion would predict psychological well‐being and 2) role importance would moderate the relationship between illness intrusion and psychological adjustment, such that intrusion into highly valued roles would be the most psychologically distressing.

Methods

Participants were recruited from the practices of rheumatologists affiliated with a major urban hospital. A total of 113 individuals (73% women) with diagnosed rheumatic disease completed a mailed questionnaire.

Results

For all 4 roles, illness intrusion was related to decreased psychological well‐being. In the worker and parent roles, the effects of illness intrusion on adjustment were moderated by whether respondents valued these particular roles. For example, psychological well‐being was lowest among those individuals whose illness intruded greatly upon work and who highly valued their worker role identity.

Conclusion

The findings highlight the advantages of assessing both domain‐specific illness intrusion and role importance in predicting psychological well‐being among persons with rheumatic diseases. Importantly, results also demonstrate the utility of applying a social identity framework in understanding adjustment processes among persons with chronic illness.
What factors account for referral delays for patients with suspected rheumatoid arthritis?
Authors: Suter Lisa G. , Fraenkel Liana , Holmboe Eric S.
Published: March 2006

Objective

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a common, costly, and disabling disease. Early referral and treatment reduce long‐term joint damage and improve functional outcomes. Despite efforts to improve referral, half of patients with RA are not referred in a timely manner. Our objective was to explore the factors influencing the decision of a primary care physician (PCP) to refer or not refer a patient with suspected RA, and to identify modifiable factors influencing timely referral.

Methods

Using qualitative methods and in‐depth, face‐to‐face interviews, we asked Connecticut PCPs to describe the last patient encounter where they suspected RA and the factors influencing referral and nonreferral. Participants represented a range of clinical experience, access to rheumatologists, and practice settings. Sample size was determined by thematic saturation. Transcripts were coded and analyzed using the constant comparative method of qualitative data analysis.

Results

We interviewed 19 PCPs, 9 of whom were women. Our analysis identified clinical characteristics, patient preferences, access issues, clinical and administrative leadership, physician confidence and expectations, and interpersonal relationships as important domains influencing the referral decision. These domains interacted to impact timely referral and quality of care. Previously underappreciated factors, such as the magnitude of the effect of physician rapport, appeared to be critical in determining whether or not patients are promptly referred.

Conclusion

Issues such as physician rapport, as well as clinical and system issues, influence referral for suspected RA. To improve referral for RA, clinical guidelines, medical education, and quality improvement efforts should address all domains influencing the referral decision.