bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cameras in the Countryside: Recreational Photography in Rural Ontario, 1851-1920
Authors: McIsaac Jacqueline
Published: July 2014

The introduction and subsequent refinement of glass plate negative technology facilitated photography’s appropriation within rural Ontario. As a recreational consumer technology, the camera became easier to use, financially accessible, and portable, thus better suiting the needs of rural consumers. While technological advancements allowed the camera to be adopted as a leisure pursuit, its use was directed by the countryside’s cultural values and social norms. These interests influenced who used cameras, how photo-supplies were purchased, the camera’s place within household income diversification strategies, and the photographer’s gaze, all of which suggest that when photo-technology was used in the countryside, it was as an extension of, not a challenge to, rural cultural values. At the same time, as the first photography system that was accessible to the middle and labouring classes, glass plates cannot help but reveal the visual priorities this new group of consumers, thus contributing to current discussions on cultural aspects of rural society. Consequently, glass plate cameras in Ontario’s countryside functioned as both a documentary medium as well as a form of cultural expression.
Ironing out the Wrinkles: Technological and Aesthetic Change in Domestic Irons, 1880-1920
Authors: Gann Emily
Published: July 2014

In 1914, James Smart Manufacturing Company advertised the sale of two technologically identical, yet stylistically different irons: one had a black painted finish, the other, a nickel plated finish. Both styles operated in the same fashion, producing a comparable final product, however the latter was a new addition to the catalogue and was set at a higher price. The similar functionality of these domestic tools suggests that this stylistic change was made on behalf of clients’ preference and taste, rather than quality of work. By employing an object based analysis to the iron, this paper will illustrate the reciprocal relationship between gender and technology and engage with the growing discourse surrounding the changes in domestic space from 1880 to 1920 in Canada.
Making (Anti)Modern Childhood: Producing and Consuming Toys in Late Victorian
Canada
Authors: Hutchinson Braden P. L.
Published: July 2014

Prior to the First World War much of Canada’s toy supply came from Germany. When
the guns of August sounded in 1914, Canadian consumers found themselves in the midst of a
shortage of mass produced toys, dubbed the ‘toy famine’ in the popular press. Two
incompatible solutions ultimately arose to deal with this problem of consumer demand and
industrial supply. Middle class women, drawing on their work over the preceding decades
distributing and producing toys for philanthropic means and the discourse of the conditioned
child, turned to craft production using the labour of returned soldiers to refurbish second
hand playthings and produce new ones as artisans. Canadian manufacturers, with the support
of the state, pursued a policy designed to industrialize toy production in Canada for
competition at home and abroad. In some cases, one group openly resisted the efforts of the
other. Ultimately, these two visions made possible a debate about modernity and the role of
industrial technology in Canadian family life and consumer culture.
Les dilemmes éthiques en contexte de stage international : proposition d’un modèle de délibération qui intègre l’analyse intersectionnelle
Authors: Albert Hélène , Lanteigne Isabel , Savoie Lise
Published: July 2014

La formation pratique dans un contexte international est de plus en plus recherchée par les stagiaires en travail social. L’École de travail social de l’Université de Moncton possède une tradition de plus de vingt-cinq ans à cet effet. Les stages internationaux suscitent des dilemmes éthiques nécessitant un encadrement qui assure une préparation et un accompagnement soucieux de la complexité des enjeux rencontrés. Le présent article propose un modèle de délibération éthique qui intègre les dimensions théoriques de l’analyse intersectionnelle en vue de l’accompagnement de stagiaires. Le modèle présenté cherche à contribuer à la réflexivité de façon à éviter des pratiques oppressives.
Rehabilitation Interventions for the Management of Multiple Sclerosis Relapse
Authors: Asano Miho , Raszewski Rebecca , Finlayson Marcia
Published: July 2014

Background: This review was undertaken to identify and summarize the existing evidence regarding postrelapse rehabilitation interventions in people with multiple sclerosis (MS).

Methods: Literature searches were conducted within the following databases: CINAHL Plus with Full Text, MEDLINE via Ovid, and PsycINFO via CSA Illumina. The following terms were searched as subject headings or keywords: choice behavior, counseling, decision making, disease management, health education, health promotion, patient education, patient participation, patient satisfaction, psychotherapy, rehabilitation, self-care, self-management. Then these searches were combined with the subject headings for relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis and subject heading or keywords for recurrence/relapse. Through the initial database search and additional citation search, 260 potentially relevant citations were identified. After screening the titles and abstracts as well as the citation search results, the reviewers agreed to keep five studies for the full-text reviews. Three rehabilitation intervention studies were included in the final review.

Results: A combined total of 145 adults who experienced a relapse within the previous 5 months received 3 to 18 days of rehabilitation. All three studies suggested the benefit of multidisciplinary rehabilitation for individuals with MS to improve impairment or disability.

Conclusions: The three multidisciplinary rehabilitation interventions included in this review appear to be effective in improving impairment or disability of people with MS who experienced a relapse. Given the limited number of studies and their methodological limitations, the results must be interpreted cautiously. Further investigation is needed to better understand the rehabilitation needs of people with MS after relapse in order to improve research and care.
Features of thermo-mineral waters of Višegrad Spa and their therapeutic application
Authors: Bukvić Dušana
Published: July 2014

Scientific evidence has suggested significant physiological changes in the human body, after the application of thermo-mineral water, either by drinking or using the local water. The paper presents the properties, methods and possibilities of application of thermal mineral waters in Visegrad Spa. Water of Visegrad Spa is categorized as calcium, magnesium, hydro carbonated, homeothermic mineral, oligo, radon water. The effect of water on the body can be thermal, mechanical and chemical. Homeothermic water has beneficial effect on the cardiovascular system, emphasizing the positive effects of the gas radon. It is believed that radon activates the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal axis and increases secretion of glucocorticoids, exerting its numerous effects on the body. Radon water exerts the strongest analgesic
effect of all thermal mineral waters.
Use of Nondrug, Nonoperative Interventions by Community‐Dwelling People With Hip and Knee Osteoarthritis
Authors: Hinman R. S. , Nicolson P. J. A. , Dobson F. L. , Bennell K. L.
Published: July 2014

Objective

Guidelines recommend nondrug, nonoperative treatments as the first‐line approach for hip and knee osteoarthritis (OA), yet there is limited data regarding use of these treatments in OA. This study describes the use of nondrug, nonoperative interventions in people with hip and knee OA.

Methods

A convenience sample of 591 people with hip or knee OA completed a questionnaire indicating their past and/or current use of 17 nondrug, nonoperative interventions each for their hip or knee OA. Descriptive analyses, based on frequency counts and proportions, and chi‐square tests described the use of each intervention in the total cohort, and within subgroups of knee and hip OA.

Results

Participants were currently using a mean ± SD of 0.8 ± 0.9 of the strongly recommended interventions. Making efforts to lose weight (50%, n = 294) and shoe orthoses (30%, n = 175) were the most common currently used interventions. Strengthening (26%, n = 152) and stretching exercises (23%, n = 133) were the most common interventions that participants had tried in the past but were no longer utilizing. Of note, 12% (n = 71) had never used any of the interventions. Use of 5 treatments (shoe orthoses, heat and/or cold, muscle strengthening exercises, walking aids, and transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation) was significantly different between the hip and knee cohorts (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

Use of nondrug, nonoperative interventions was low among people with hip and knee OA. Our findings show evidence–practice gaps, particularly with respect to the interventions most strongly recommended in clinical guidelines for hip and knee OA (weight loss and exercise).
Are Men at Greater Risk of Lean Mass Deficits in Rheumatoid Arthritis?
Authors: Baker Joshua F. , Long Jin , Ibrahim Said , Leonard Mary B. , Katz Patricia
Published: July 2014

Objective

We aimed to determine if there were sex differences in lean body mass (LBM) in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) when compared with sex‐ and race‐specific National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) reference data, and to investigate the impact of sex differences in risk factors for LBM deficits.

Methods

Dual x‐ray absorptiometry measures of whole body LBM and appendicular LBM (arms and legs, appendicular lean mass [ALM]) were obtained on a total of 190 subjects from 2 independent cohorts (141 from San Francisco [SF], 49 from Philadelphia [PA]), expressed as indices adjusted for height (LBM index and ALM index, kg/m2), and converted to sex‐ and race‐specific Z scores relative to age and based on NHANES data. Sarcopenia was defined using 4 different sex‐specific definitions. Multivariable linear and logistic regression analyses adjusted for disease activity, disease duration, physical activity, anti–cyclic citrullinated peptide seropositivity, fat mass index, and glucocorticoid use.

Results

While there were significant differences between the 2 cohorts, ALM index Z scores were significantly lower in men compared to women in both (SF: −1.43 versus −0.43, P < 0.0001; PA: −0.83 versus −0.06, P = 0.03). Observed sex differences were significant after adjustment in multivariable analyses within both cohorts. Odds of sarcopenia were 3 to 8 times greater in men in the SF cohort. Men in the PA cohort also had a higher, but nonsignificant, risk of sarcopenia.

Conclusion

RA is associated with significant LBM deficits, with greater deficits observed in men. Future study may help elucidate the mechanisms driving greater deficits among men.
Is Spinal Mobility in Patients With Spondylitis Determined By Age, Structural Damage, and Inflammation?
Authors: Calvo‐Gutierrez Jerusalem , Garrido‐Castro Juan L. , Gil‐Cabezas Jesus , Gonzalez‐Navas Cristina , Ugalde Pilar Font , Carmona Loreto , Collantes‐Estevez Eduardo
Published: July 2014

Objective

To explore the association between mobility, inflammation, and structural damage in ankylosing spondylitis (AS).

Methods

Patients with AS were included in a cross‐sectional study in which spinal mobility was measured by the Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Metrology Index (BASMI) and by the University of Córdoba Ankylosing Spondylitis Metrology Index (UCOASMI), based on an automated motion analysis. Structural damage was measured by the modified Stoke Ankylosing Spondylitis Spine Score (mSASSS), and activity by the Ankylosing Spondylitis Disease Activity Score (ASDAS) and the Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Disease Activity (BASDAI). We analyzed the correlations between variables, as well as interaction by multiple linear regression models to reach a predictive equation.

Results

Fifty AS patients, mainly men in their mid‐40s and with moderate levels of disease activity and structural damage, were included in the study. BASMI and UCOASMI scores showed a strong correlation (r = 0.89). UCOASMI scores correlated stronger than BASMI with structural damage (r = 0.72 versus r = 0.67) and patient's age (r = 0.68 versus r = 0.56). Correlations of mobility were weaker with disease activity by the ASDAS (r = 0.38) and BASDAI (r = 0.49), and disease duration (r = 0.40). Multiple linear regression showed that factors associated to mobility by UCOASMI were age, the BASDAI, mSASSS, ASDAS (0:<2.1, 1:≥2.1), and disease duration >15 years. The largest weight in the equation corresponded to the mSASSS. The association between the ASDAS and UCOASMI is dependent on disease duration.

Conclusion

Mobility in AS is influenced by both structural damage and activity, but definitely also by age and disease duration. Improved mobility should be a relevant target in AS, even more prominently than activity, given its closer relation to structural damage.
Factors Explaining the Discrepancy Between Physician and Patient Global Assessment of Joint and Skin Disease Activity in Psoriatic Arthritis Patients
Authors: Eder Lihi , Thavaneswaran Arane , Chandran Vinod , Cook Richard , Gladman Dafna D.
Published: July 2014

Objective

To assess the extent and determinants of discordance in scoring between patient global assessment (PtGA) and physician global assessment (PhGA) in patients with psoriatic arthritis (PsA).

Methods

A cross‐sectional and longitudinal analysis of data was conducted in patients attending a large PsA clinic. The difference between PtGA and PhGA (each measured on a scale of 0–10, with 0 indicating best status and 10 indicating worst status) reflected the discrepancy between the PtGA and PhGA of joint and skin activity and could take values from −10 (higher rating of disease activity by the patient) to 10 (higher rating of disease activity by the physician). Multivariate regression identified variables that contributed significantly to each of the outcomes. The proportion of variability of each outcome explained by each predictor was expressed by the partial R2.

Results

A total of 565 patients were included in the analysis. Patients tended to score their disease worse than their physicians, with greater discordance for the joints than for the skin (mean ± SD 1.68 ± 2.41 PtGA–PhGA difference for joints, and 0.77 ± 2.66 for skin). Fatigue accounted for 21% of the variation in the difference between PtGA and PhGA for joints. Pain ( = 9%) and disability by Short Form 36 health survey ( = 1.2%) were also important factors, each of which led to higher patient rating; whereas increased tender joint count ( = 16%) and swollen joint count ( = 1.4%) resulted in a higher physician rating of arthritis.

Conclusion

Fatigue, pain, disability, and tender and swollen joint counts were the most important factors contributing to discrepancy between patient and physician assessment of joint activity.
Factors Associated With Pain Experience Outcome in Knee Osteoarthritis
Authors: Rayahin Jamie E. , Chmiel Joan S. , Hayes Karen W. , Almagor Orit , Belisle Laura , Chang Alison H. , Moisio Kirsten , Zhang Yunhui , Sharma Leena
Published: July 2014

Objective

Few strategies to improve pain outcome in knee osteoarthritis (OA) exist in part because how best to evaluate pain over the long term is unclear. Our objectives were to determine the frequency of a good pain experience outcome based on previously formulated OA pain stages and test the hypothesis that less depression and pain catastrophizing and greater self‐efficacy and social support are each associated with greater likelihood of a good outcome.

Methods

Study participants, all with knee OA, reported pain stage at baseline and 2 years. Baseline assessments utilized the Geriatric Depression Scale, Pain Catastrophizing Scale, Arthritis Self‐Efficacy Scale, and Medical Outcomes Study social support survey. Using pain experience stages, good outcome was defined as persistence in or movement to no pain or stage 1 (predictable pain, known trigger) at 2 years. A multivariable logistic regression model was developed to identify independent predictors of a good outcome.

Results

Of 212 participants, 136 (64%) had a good pain outcome and 76 (36%) a poor pain outcome. In multivariable analysis, higher self‐efficacy was associated with a significantly higher likelihood of good outcome (adjusted odds ratio [OR] 1.14 [95% confidence interval (95% CI) 1.04–1.24]); higher pain catastrophizing was associated with a significantly lower likelihood of good outcome (adjusted OR 0.88 [95% CI 0.83–0.94]).

Conclusion

This stage‐based measure provides a meaningful and interpretable means to assess pain outcome in knee OA. The odds of a good 2‐year outcome in knee OA were lower in persons with greater pain catastrophizing and higher in persons with greater self‐efficacy. Targeting these factors may help to improve pain outcome in knee OA.
Are Fibromyalgia Patients Cognitively Impaired? Objective and Subjective Neuropsychological Evidence
Authors: Tesio Valentina , Torta Diana M. E. , Colonna Fabrizio , Leombruni Paolo , Ghiggia Ada , Fusaro Enrico , Geminiani Giuliano C. , Torta Riccardo , Castelli Lorys
Published: July 2014

Objective

Patients with fibromyalgia (FM) syndrome often report a cluster of cognitive disorders that strongly interferes with their work and daily life, but the relationship between impaired cognitive function and self‐reported dysfunction remains unclear. We aimed to investigate the presence of cognitive impairments in patients with FM and to analyze the relationship between the impairments and their evaluation by the patients through a comparison with a group of healthy controls.

Methods

In total, 30 FM patients and 30 healthy controls performed a neuropsychological and clinical evaluation of short‐term, long‐term, and working memory; executive function; and self‐evaluation of cognitive impairment and depressive and anxiety symptoms. To thoroughly investigate executive function, we adopted the Miyake model that identifies 4 domains: shifting, inhibition, updating, and access.

Results

Our results confirmed the presence of impairments of attention, long‐term memory, working memory, and shifting and updating executive functions in FM patients compared with healthy controls. These impairments are reflected in patient reports independently of depressive symptoms.

Conclusion

The use of a self‐reported questionnaire in clinical practice would provide a first and easy screen for the presence of cognitive impairment in FM patients and, in most cases, obviate the need for a time‐consuming full neuropsychological test battery.
Design and Effects of Supportive Followup Interventions in Clinical Care of Patients With Rheumatic Diseases: A Systematic Review With Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Berdal Gunnhild , Smedslund Geir , Dagfinrud Hanne , Hagen Kåre Birger , Kjeken Ingvild
Published: July 2014

Objective

To describe the design and determine the clinical effects of supportive followup interventions delivered after or alongside nonsurgical treatment or rehabilitation of patients with rheumatic diseases.

Methods

We performed a systematic review of randomized controlled trials searching the Ovid Medline, Embase, Cinahl, AMED, PsychINFO, and Cochrane Library databases. Trials evaluating the effects of interventions designed to enhance and/or prolong the effects of rheumatic treatment or rehabilitation were included. Data on pain, depression, and physical function were pooled in separate meta‐analyses, including analyses made to calculate short‐term (0–2 months) and long‐term (5–6 months after followup intervention) effects. Risk of bias was assessed by 2 independent reviewers.

Results

The searches generated 3,231 citations, of which 11 original trials were included. The results demonstrated a great variety in the design of followup interventions. We found moderate quality evidence for small effects on self‐reported physical function, with standardized mean differences of −0.15 (95% confidence interval [95% CI] −0.30, 0.00; P = 0.05) at short term, and −0.18 (95% CI −0.37, 0.00; P = 0.05) at long‐term followup. Moderate quality evidence showed no effect of supportive followup interventions on short‐term depression. Low quality evidence showed no significant effects on short‐term pain, and very low quality evidence showed no significant effects on long‐term pain and depression.

Conclusion

Currently there is no clear evidence concerning what constitutes an optimal design of supportive followup interventions. There is evidence that supportive followup can improve physical function in patients with rheumatic diseases, whereas no significant effects were found for pain and depression.
Visits to Rheumatologists for Arthritis: The Role of Access to Primary Care Physicians, Geographic Availability of Rheumatologists, and Socioeconomic Status
Authors: Badley Elizabeth M. , Canizares Mayilee , Gunz Anna C. , Davis Aileen M.
Published: July 2014

Objective

This multilevel study examines access to rheumatologists for all arthritis and inflammatory arthritis, taking into account geographic availability of rheumatologists, access to primary care physicians (PCPs), and population characteristics (e.g., socioeconomic status [SES]).

Methods

We analyzed data from the population (age ≥18 years) living in the 105 health planning areas in Ontario, Canada on visits to physicians for arthritis and musculoskeletal disorders. Using data from a survey of rheumatologists and Geographic Information System analysis, an index of geographic availability for rheumatologists was calculated, incorporating distance between the population and rheumatologist locations and the number of hours per week of rheumatologist care. Multilevel Poisson regression was used to examine factors associated with the rates of rheumatology visits for inflammatory arthritis and all arthritis.

Results

Controlling for age and sex, the rheumatologist availability index was associated with visit rates for all arthritis, but not inflammatory arthritis. Patients living in areas with low access to PCPs or low SES were less likely to have office visits to rheumatologists for all arthritis and inflammatory arthritis.

Conclusion

Besides potential deficiencies in rheumatology provision, there may be access barriers to rheumatology services, particularly for populations with low access to PCPs or low SES. This is of special concern for patients with inflammatory arthritis for whom rheumatologist care is necessary. In developing models of care for arthritis, this study points to the need to pay attention to areas with low PCP resources and areas of low SES, as well as the location and amount of rheumatology services available.
Phase equilibria and structural properties of thiophene/[Bmim][BF4]: A molecular insight from monte carlo simulations
Authors: Zeng Yongping , Wang Chunfeng , Hu Junmei , Xu WenLin , Xu Yueyang , Ju Shengui
Published: July 2014

The phase equilibria of thiophene in 1‐butyl‐3‐methylimidazolium tetrafluoroborate ([Bmim][BF4]) is calculated by Monte Carlo simulation in Gibbs ensemble using a united atom force field. The liquid density of studied ionic liquid and the vapor pressure of thiophene in [Bmim][BF4] were compared with corresponding experimental data reported in the literature, and a good agreement was obtained. In order to describe the solubility of thiophene in this ionic liquid, we have calculated the radial distribution functions and spatial distribution functions of thiophene/IL mixtures to study the interaction of thiophene with cations and anions of [Bmim][BF4] in the liquid phase. The local composition concept in fluid was also examined to give further insight into the liquid structure. The results show that thiophene is well organized around the terminal carbon atom of the butyl or methyl chain attached to the imidazolium ring of cations and tends to adopt a symmetrically distribution on the anions. © 2014 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 60: 3916–3924, 2014
ZAP‐70 Genotype Disrupts the Relationship Between Microbiota and Host, Leading to Spondyloarthritis and Ileitis in SKG Mice
Authors: Rehaume Linda M. , Mondot Stanislas , Aguirre de Cárcer Daniel , Velasco Jared , Benham Helen , Hasnain Sumaira Z. , Bowman Jaclyn , Ruutu Merja , Hansbro Philip M. , McGuckin Michael A. , Morrison Mark , Thomas Ranjeny
Published: July 2014

Objective

The spondyloarthritides share genetic susceptibility, interleukin‐23 (IL‐23) dependence, and the involvement of microbiota. The aim of the current study was to elucidate how host genetics influence gut microbiota and the relationship between microbiota and organ inflammation in spondyloarthritides.

Methods

BALB/c ZAP‐70W163C–mutant (SKG) mice, Toll‐like receptor 4 (TLR‐4)–deficient SKG mice, and wild‐type BALB/c mice were housed under specific pathogen–free conditions. SKG and wild‐type BALB/c mice were maintained under germ‐free conditions, and some of these mice were recolonized with altered Schaedler flora. All of the mice were injected intraperitoneally with microbial β‐1,3‐glucan (curdlan). Arthritis, spondylitis, and ileitis were assessed histologically. Microbiome composition was analyzed in serial fecal samples obtained from mice that were co‐housed beginning at the time of weaning, using 454 pyrosequencing. Infiltrating cells and cytokines in the peritoneal cavity were measured by flow cytometry and enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. Cytokine, endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress marker, and tight junction protein transcription was measured by quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction.

Results

Microbiota content and response to curdlan varied according to whether T cell receptor signal strength was normal or was impaired due to the ZAP‐70W163C mutation. Curdlan triggered acute inflammation regardless of the presence of the SKG allele or microbiota. However, no or limited microbiota content attenuated the severity of arthritis. In contrast, ileal IL‐23 expression, ER stress, lymph node IL‐17A production, goblet cell loss, and ileitis development were microbiota‐dependent. Ileitis but not arthritis was suppressed by microbiota transfer upon co‐housing SKG mice with wild‐type BALB/c mice, as well as by TLR‐4 deficiency.

Conclusion

The interaction between immunogenetic background and host microbiota leads to an IL‐23–dependent loss of mucosal function, triggering ileitis in response to curdlan.
Role of Toll‐like Receptors 2 and 4 in Mediating Endothelial Dysfunction and Arterial Remodeling in Primary Arterial Antiphospholipid Syndrome
Authors: Benhamou Ygal , Bellien Jeremy , Armengol Guillaume , Brakenhielm Ebba , Adriouch Sahil , Iacob Michele , Remy‐Jouet Isabelle , Le Cam‐Duchez Véronique , Monteil Christelle , Renet Sylvanie , Jouen Fabienne , Drouot Laurent , Menard Jean‐François , Borg Jeanne‐Yvonne , Thuillez Christian , Boyer Olivier , Levesque Hervé , Richard Vincent , Joannidès Robinson
Published: July 2014

Objective

To assess the role of Toll‐like receptors (TLRs) in antiphospholipid antibody (aPL)–mediated vascular abnormalities in patients with primary arterial antiphospholipid syndrome (APS).

Methods

Forty‐eight subjects participated in the study. Arterial function and structure and TLR pathway activation were determined in patients with primary arterial APS and matched controls. The pathogenic effects of aPL isolated from patients were assessed in wild‐type (WT) and TLR‐knockout mice.

Results

APS patients had endothelial dysfunction, arterial stiffening, and hypertrophy, as evidenced by decreased brachial artery endothelium‐dependent flow‐mediated dilation (FMD) and increased aortic pulse wave velocity and carotid intima‐media thickness (IMT), as compared with controls. Plasma samples from APS patients revealed decreased nitric oxide (NO) availability and a pro‐oxidative, proinflammatory, and prothrombotic state illustrated by a decrease in nitrite and an increase in lipid peroxidation, tumor necrosis factor α levels, and tissue factor (TF) levels. Furthermore, TLR pathway activation was found in APS patients with increased TLR‐2 and TLR‐4 messenger RNA expression and increased protein levels of the activated TLR transduction protein interleukin‐1 receptor–associated kinase 1 in peripheral blood mononuclear cells. Moreover, agonist‐stimulated cell‐surface expression of TLR‐2 and TLR‐4 in circulating monocytes was higher in APS patients than in controls. These changes were positively associated with IMT and negatively associated with FMD. Finally, aPL injection decreased mesenteric endothelium‐dependent relaxation and increased TF expression in WT mice but not in TLR‐2– or TLR‐4–knockout mice.

Conclusion

This translational study supports the notion that TLR‐2 and TLR‐4 play a role in mediating vascular abnormalities in patients with primary arterial APS. TLRs thus constitute a promising pharmacologic target for preventing cardiovascular complications in APS.
Dual‐Specificity Phosphatase 5 Attenuates Autoimmune Arthritis in Mice via Reciprocal Regulation of the Th17/Treg Cell Balance and Inhibition of Osteoclastogenesis
Authors: Moon Su‐Jin , Lim Mi‐Ae , Park Jin‐Sil , Byun Jae‐Kyeong , Kim Sung‐Min , Park Mi‐Kyung , Kim Eun‐Kyung , Moon Young‐Mee , Min Jun‐Ki , Ahn Sung‐Min , Park Sung‐Hwan , Cho Mi‐La
Published: July 2014

Objective

Dual‐specificity phosphatase 5 (DUSP‐5) is a phosphatase that specifically dephosphorylates both phosphoserine and phosphotyrosine residues of MAPK. The dysregulated activation of MAPK contributes to the pathogenesis of rheumatoid arthritis. This study was undertaken to investigate the therapeutic potential of DUSP‐5 in preventing the development of autoimmune arthritis in an animal model.

Methods

Autoimmune arthritis was induced in DBA/1J mice by immunization with type II collagen (CII). Eight days after CII immunization, the mice were injected intravenously with pcDNA–DUSP5 or mock vector, and electroporation was performed. The serum concentration of anti‐CII antibodies was measured by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. Histologic analysis of the joints was performed using Safranin O, toluidine blue, and immunohistochemical staining. The expression of transcription factors was analyzed by immunostaining and Western blotting. The frequencies of interleukin‐17–producing CD4+ Th17 cells and CD4+CD25+Foxp3+ Treg cells were analyzed by flow cytometry.

Results

In DUSP5‐overexpressing mice, the severity of arthritis, as indicated by the clinical arthritis score and the extent of histologic inflammation and cartilage damage, was attenuated. The pcDNA–DUSP5–injected mice had lower circulating levels of total and CII‐specific IgG, IgG1, and IgG2a. The Th17 cell population frequency was decreased and the Treg cell frequency was increased in the spleens of the DUSP5‐treated group. The reciprocal regulation of Th17 and Treg cells in vivo was associated with attenuated activity of pSTAT‐3 and pERK, and with increased activity of pSTAT‐5. DUSP5 overexpression suppressed joint damage through down‐regulation of pro‐osteoclastogenic molecules.

Conclusion

The antiarthritic properties of DUSP‐5 are associated with its reciprocal regulation of Th17 and Treg cells and its inhibition of ERK activity.
Rituximab for the Treatment of Relapses in Antineutrophil Cytoplasmic Antibody–Associated Vasculitis
Authors: Miloslavsky E. M. , Specks U. , Merkel P. A. , Seo P. , Spiera R. , Langford C. A. , Hoffman G. S. , Kallenberg C. G. M. , St.Clair E. W. , Tchao N. K. , Viviano L. , Ding L. , Iklé D. , Villarreal M. , Jepson B. , Brunetta P. , Allen N. B. , Fervenza F. C. , Geetha D. , Keogh K. , Kissin E. Y. , Monach P. A. , Peikert T. , Stegeman C. , Ytterberg S. R. , Stone J. H. ,   for the Rituximab in ANCA‐Associated Vasculitis–Immune Tolerance Network Research Group
Published: July 2014

Objective

Disease relapses are frequent in antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody–associated vasculitis (AAV). This study was undertaken to evaluate outcomes in patients with AAV who are re‐treated with rituximab (RTX) and prednisone for severe disease relapses.

Methods

The Rituximab in AAV trial was a randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled trial comparing the rates of remission induction among patients treated with RTX (n = 99) and patients treated with cyclophosphamide (CYC) followed by azathioprine (AZA) (n = 98). Prednisone was tapered to discontinuation after 5.5 months. After remission was achieved, patients who experienced a severe disease relapse between months 6 and 18 were eligible to receive RTX and prednisone on an open‐label basis according to a prespecified protocol. Investigators remained blinded with regard to the original treatment assignment.

Results

Twenty‐six patients received RTX for disease relapse after remission had initially been achieved with their originally assigned treatment. Fifteen of these patients were initially randomized to receive RTX and 11 to receive CYC/AZA. Thirteen (87%) of the patients originally assigned to receive RTX and 10 (91%) originally assigned to receive CYC/AZA achieved remission again with open‐label RTX (an overall percentage of 88%). In half of the patients treated with open‐label RTX, prednisone could be discontinued entirely. Patients in this cohort experienced fewer adverse events compared to the overall study population (4.7 adverse events per patient‐year versus 11.8 adverse events per patient‐year).

Conclusion

Re‐treatment of AAV relapses with RTX and glucocorticoids appears to be a safe and effective strategy, regardless of previous treatment.
Peroxisome Proliferator–Activated Receptor γ Coactivator 1α and FoxO3A Mediate Chondroprotection by AMP‐Activated Protein Kinase
Authors: Zhao Xianling , Petursson Freyr , Viollet Benoit , Lotz Martin , Terkeltaub Robert , Liu‐Bryan Ru
Published: July 2014

Objective

AMP‐activated protein kinase (AMPK) inhibits chondrocyte procatabolic responses to inflammation and biomechanical injury. This study was undertaken to test the hypothesis that peroxisome proliferator–activated receptor γ coactivator 1α (PGC‐1α) and FoxO3A, 2 major AMPK downstream targets, mediate the chondroprotective effect of AMPK activation.

Methods

We assessed the activity of AMPKα (threonine 172 phosphorylation) and the expression of PGC‐1α and FoxO3A in human chondrocytes and AMPKα1‐ or AMPKα2‐knockout mouse chondrocytes by Western blotting, and in mouse knee cartilage by immunohistochemistry. We also knocked down or overexpressed PGC‐1α and FoxO3A by small interfering RNA or plasmid DNA transfection, respectively. We assessed mitochondrial superoxide generation using MitoSOX Red.

Results

Expression of PGC‐1α and FoxO3A was enhanced by pharmacologic AMPK activator A‐769662 but impaired in AMPKα1−/− or AMPKα2−/− mouse chondrocytes. Reduced expression of PGC‐1α and FoxO3A was observed in mouse knee instability–induced osteoarthritis (OA) cartilage and in aged C57BL/6 mouse knee cartilage. Knockdown of PGC‐1α and FoxO3A enhanced, but limited the ability of A‐769662 to inhibit, phosphorylation of p65 NF‐κB (Ser536) and procatabolic responses induced by inflammatory cytokines. Forced expression of PGC‐1α and FoxO3A induced increased expression of superoxide dismutase 2 (SOD2) and catalase, but A‐769662 failed to increase the expression of SOD2 and catalase in either PGC‐1α– or FoxO3A‐knockdown chondrocytes. Last, menadione‐induced superoxide generation was inhibited by AMPK pharmacologic activators and by overexpression of PGC‐1α or FoxO3A.

Conclusion

PGC‐1α and FoxO3A limit oxidative stress and at least partially mediate the capacity of AMPK activity to block procatabolic responses in chondrocytes, and therefore have the potential to inhibit the progression of cartilage damage in OA.
Getting into a Russell Group university: high scores and private schooling
Authors: Hemsley‐Brown Jane
Published: July 2014

Despite substantial prior research on higher education choice, top universities in the UK continue to stand accused of favouring socio‐economically advantaged students, to the detriment of those from poorer backgrounds. The objectives of this study are to test whether students with the same or equivalent entry scores are more or less likely to enter a top (Russell Group) university based on their social class background, parental education, occupation, age and racial group. Are students from disadvantaged backgrounds achieving the same entry grades or scores as other students, and based on their grades, are they equally likely to be studying at Russell Group universities? The research is based on primary data from a national (UK) survey with 10,723 respondents from 140 universities and higher education institutions. The findings from binary logistic regression show that prior schooling (private schooling) and high entry grades are the best predictors of attendance at Russell Group universities in the UK. The model with twelve predictors is significant using the full sample and the random sub‐samples, and four key variables are strong predictors for all models: schooling, entry scores, age (under‐19) and non‐widening participation status predict the likelihood of attending a Russell Group university in 70% of cases. The respondents in this study who attended a private school are one and a half times more likely to attend a Russell Group university than students who attended a state‐funded school. Black students are also underrepresented in Russell Group universities, but their entry scores are significantly lower.
The progress of pupils in their first school year across classes and educational systems
Authors: Tymms Peter , Merrell Christine , Wildy Helen
Published: July 2014

Educational effectiveness research has identified school membership as being and important factor in relation to academic progress but it has also pointed to the importance of teachers. Additionally, districts have been shown to be of minor importance for progress once key variables are taken into account while data from international studies suggest that countries are important when attainment is studied while controlling for background factors. A perspective, named the Proximate Variables within Jurisdictions (PVJ) theory, is introduced to help understand and predict relationships. The theory holds that variables which are closest to the student are the most influential but that the jurisdiction where the student is educated, which has its own approaches to education and upbringing is of similar importance. A child's educational success in international terms is most influenced by actions in the home and the classroom seen in the context of the country where she or he is brought up. Does the theory hold when progress in classrooms, year groups and educational systems (jurisdictions) is estimated in a single analysis? This study compared progress of pupils in over 4000 classrooms across 11 educational systems. Large differences were found between classes and the educational systems both for reading and mathematics during the first year at school. The theory holds for the most part but questions are left unanswered and the paper sets out a series of testable hypotheses which may be addressed in the future.
Consensus guidelines for enhanced recovery after gastrectomy
Authors: Mortensen K , Nilsson M , Slim K , Schäfer M , Mariette C , Braga M , Carli F , Demartines N , Griffin S M , Lassen K ,   Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS®) Group, Dejong C H C , Fearon K C F , Ljungqvist O , Lobo D N , Revhaug A
Published: July 2014

Background

Application of evidence-based perioperative care protocols reduces complication rates, accelerates recovery and shortens hospital stay. Presently, there are no comprehensive guidelines for perioperative care for gastrectomy.

Methods

An international working group within the Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS®) Society assembled an evidence-based comprehensive framework for optimal perioperative care for patients undergoing gastrectomy. Data were retrieved from standard databases and personal archives. Evidence and recommendations were classified according to the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) system and were discussed until consensus was reached within the group. The quality of evidence was rated ‘high’, ‘moderate’, ‘low’ or ‘very low’. Recommendations were graded as ‘strong’ or ‘weak’.

Results

The available evidence has been summarized and recommendations are given for 25 items, eight of which contain procedure-specific evidence. The quality of evidence varies substantially and further research is needed for many issues to improve the strength of evidence and grade of recommendations.

Conclusion

The present evidence-based framework provides comprehensive advice on optimal perioperative care for the patient undergoing gastrectomy and facilitates multi-institutional prospective cohort registries and adequately powered randomized trials for further research.
The moderating role of gift recipients' attachment orientations on givers' gift‐giving perceptions
Authors: Nguyen Hieu P. , Munch James M.
Published: July 2014

Romantic gift‐giving perceptions in dyadic relationships are examined in this research as informed by attachment theory. In two studies, we investigate the moderating role of the recipient's attachment orientation on the giver's gift‐giving perceptions and the mechanism through which the interaction between the giver's and recipient's attachment orientations influence gift‐giving perceptions. We show that the recipient's attachment orientation could accentuate or attenuate the impact of the giver's attachment orientation on gift‐giving perceptions and that this effect is carried through the giver's satisfaction with the relationship. We provide implications for future research and practitioners. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Acute Toxicity, Bioactivity, and Enantioselective Behavior with Tissue Distribution in Rabbits of Myclobutanil Enantiomers
Authors: Sun Mingjing , Liu Donghui , Qiu Xinxu , Zhou Qian , Shen Zhigang , Wang Peng , Zhou Zhiqiang
Published: July 2014

The enantioselective bioactivity against pathogens (Cercospora arachidicola, Fulvia fulva, and Phytophthora infestans) and acute toxicity to Daphnia magna of the fungicide myclobutanil enantiomers were studied. The (+)‐enantiomer in an antimicrobial activity test was about 1.79–1.96 times more active than the (–)‐enantiomer. In the toxicity assay, the calculated 24‐h LC50 values of the (–)‐form, rac‐form and (+)‐form were 16.88, 13.17, and 11.91 mg/L, and the 48‐h LC50 values were 10.15, 9.24, and 5.48 mg/L, respectively, showing that (+)‐myclobutanil was more toxic. Meanwhile, the enantioselective metabolism of myclobutanil enantiomers following a single intravenous (i.v.) administration was investigated in rabbits. Total plasma clearance value (CL) of the (+)‐enantiomer was 1.68‐fold higher than its antipode. Significant differences in pharmacokinetics parameters between the two enantiomers indicated that the high bioactive (+)‐enantiomer was preferentially metabolized and eliminated in plasma. Consistent consequences were found in the tissues (liver, brain, heart, kidney, fat, and muscle), resulting in a relative enrichment of the low‐activity (–)‐myclobutanil. These systemic assessments of the stereoisomers of myclobutanil cannot be used only to investigate environmental and biological behavior, but also have human health implications because of the long persistence of triazole fungicide and enantiomeric enrichment in mammals and humans. Chirality 26:784–789, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Removal of Fluoride from Aqueous Solution Using Aluminum Alginate Beads
Authors: Kaygusuz Hakan , Uzaşçı Sesil , Erim F. Bedia
Published: July 2014

Fluoride is a contaminant in groundwater; hence numerous procedures for its removal are reported. Adsorption studies are specified as effective methods for removal of fluoride contamination from water sources. In the present study, aluminum cross‐linked alginate beads are used as an adsorbent for fluoride removal from aqueous solutions. Adsorption experiments were carried out by batch contact method. The equilibrium was achieved in 4 h. Optimal conditions were found to be pH 2 at 25°C, giving rise to 99.5% removal of fluoride. Various kinetic (pseudo‐first and ‐second order, intraparticle diffusion, and Elovich) and isotherm [Langmuir, Freundlich, Dubinin–Radushkevich (D–R), and Temkin] models were applied to the adsorption data. The maximum adsorption capacity was determined as 75.2 mg/g from the Langmuir isotherm. The value of mean sorption energy was calculated as 2.75 kJ/mol (<8 kJ/mol) from the D–R isotherm, which indicates a physical adsorption. Thermodynamic parameters were also calculated and negative ΔG values were related to a spontaneous nature of the adsorption. This study suggests that aluminum alginate beads can be used as efficient, cheap and eco‐friendly adsorbents for the removal of fluoride from contaminated water.
Studies on Human Pharmaceuticals in Jordanian Wastewater Samples
Authors: Al‐Tarawneh Ibrahim , El‐Dosoky Mohammed , Alawi Mahmoud , Batarseh Mufeed , Widyasari Arum , Kreuzig Robert , Bahadir Müfit
Published: July 2014

Eight pharmaceuticals, the anti‐epileptic carbamazepine, two antibiotics sulfamethoxazole and erythromycin, and five non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs ibuprofen, naproxen, diclofenac, ketorolac, and ketoprofen were analyzed in influents and effluents of wastewater treatment plants in Jordan. After solid phase extraction at pH 4, the analytes were determined by LC‐MS/MS using multiple reaction monitoring mode. For quantitation purposes, external calibration was applied first. Regression coefficients of ≥0.995 indicated the linearity in the concentration range of 0.5–100 ng/μL. Finally, single‐point standard addition was applied to compensate matrix effects. The instrumental detection limits were between 0.05 and 20 pg amount injected. The method quantitation limits for spiked influent and effluent samples were 0.5 and 0.2 μg/L, respectively. Recovery rates were ≥78%. Precision given as relative standard deviations for within‐day precision and time‐different intermediate precision ranged from 2 to 21 and 1 to 19%, respectively. In this study, the maximum average concentrations found for ibuprofen were 5.7 μg/L in the influent and 2.2 μg/L in the effluent samples. The other pharmaceuticals ranged from 0.7 to 5.2 and 0.2 to 1.3 μg/L, respectively. Ketorolac and ketoprofen were not detected.
Large basolateral processes on type II hair cells are novel processing units in mammalian vestibular organs
Authors: Pujol Rémy , Pickett Sarah B. , Nguyen Tot Bui , Stone Jennifer S.
Published: July 2014

Sensory receptors in the vestibular system (hair cells) encode head movements and drive central motor reflexes that control gaze, body movements, and body orientation. In mammals, type I and II vestibular hair cells are defined by their shape, contacts with vestibular afferent nerves, and membrane conductance. Here we describe unique morphological features of type II vestibular hair cells in mature rodents (mice and gerbils) and bats. These features are cytoplasmic processes that extend laterally from the hair cell base and project under type I hair cells. Closer analysis of adult mouse utricles demonstrated that the basolateral processes of type II hair cells vary in shape, size, and branching, with the longest processes extending three to four hair cell widths. The hair cell basolateral processes synapse upon vestibular afferent nerves and receive inputs from vestibular efferent nerves. Furthermore, some basolateral processes make physical contacts with the processes of other type II hair cells, forming some sort of network among type II hair cells. Basolateral processes are rare in perinatal mice and do not attain their mature form until 3–6 weeks of age. These observations demonstrate that basolateral processes are significant signaling regions of type II vestibular hair cells and suggest that type II hair cells may directly communicate with each other, which has not been described in vertebrates. J. Comp. Neurol. 522:3141–3159, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.