bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Synthesis of a new cationic surfactant for the alkaline hydrolysis of solvent‐pretreated polyester fabrics
Authors: Gawish S. M. , Mosleh S. , Ramadan A. M.
Published: October 2002

The synthesis of a cationic surfactant was based on diethanolamine and alkyl halides such as cetyl bromide with epichlorohydrin as a quaternizing agent. It was characterized by the elemental microanalysis of nitrogen and chloride and infrared spectroscopy. Polyester (PET) crepe fabric was pretreated with a series of solvents, including tetrachloroethane and tetrachloroethylene, at 25, 50, and 100°C. Untreated and solvent‐pretreated PET fabric was hydrolyzed with 8 g/L NaOH at 100°C in the absence and presence of a cationic surfactant as a catalyst, and the weight loss was determined. The effects of solvent pretreatment on alkaline hydrolysis and PET dyeing were also examined. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 85: 1652–1660, 2002.
Effects of mineral additives on the β‐crystalline form of isotactic polypropylene
Authors: Feng Jiachun , Chen Mingcai , Huang Zhitang , Guo Yuanqiang , Hu Hongqi
Published: October 2002

Nineteen kinds of minerals, alone and in bicomponent mixtures with LaC (a mixed ternary complex of trivalent lanthanum stearate and stearin), were added to isotactic polypropylene (iPP). The influences of the minerals on the crystallographic forms of iPP were investigated. A wide‐angle X‐ray diffraction examination demonstrated that no mineral or LaC acting alone could induce the occurrence of the hexagonal β‐form, whereas the bicomponent mixtures could when the mineral was a calcium compound or contained calcium compounds, whether the calcium compounds had a hexagonal crystallographic form or not. We surmise that the actual β‐iPP substrate in such a system might be some binuclear complexes of calcium and rare earth elements with some specific ligands. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 85: 1742–1748, 2002
Time optimization of ultraviolet–ozone pretreatment for improving wool fabrics properties
Authors: El‐Zaher N. A. , Micheal M. N.
Published: October 2002

Wool fabrics were exposed to ultraviolet (UV)–ozone treatment for different periods. After exposure, the fabrics were analyzed by Fourior transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). Also, the crystallinity and amorphousity regions were followed by an X‐ray diffraction technique. The results were correlated by mechanical properties measurements. After a certain period of exposure, the dyeability and printability were improved because these abilities are strongly related to the percentage ratio of crystallinity regions to amorphousity regions in wool fabrics. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 85: 1469–1476, 2002
Formation and investigation of epoxy intumescent compositions modified by active additives
Authors: Kodolov V. I. , Shuklin S. G. , Kuznetsov A. P. , Makarova L. G. , Bystrov S. G. , Demicheva O. V. , Rudakova T. A.
Published: October 2002

Results are reported of research on intumescent composites based on epoxy resin cross‐linked with polyethylene polyamine and containing ammonium polyphosphate and such modifying additives as calcium borate, manganese dioxide, nickel, and chromium, containing tubulenes as gas‐formers and carbonization stimulators. The changes in composition and physicochemical properties of modified compositions under conditions of heat and fire were investigated by X‐ray photo‐electron spectroscopy, atomic force microscopy, and local force spectroscopy. Ammonium polyphosphate mainly stimulates carbonization processes on the inner surface of a bubble being formed during foam coke formation. The introduction of metal‐containing tubulenes leads to the formation of fire‐retardant and low flammability‐compositions with high coke and carbon structures content. The use of calcium borate in the compositions considerably increases the strength of foam coke being formed. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 85: 1477–1483, 2002
Mill processability of brominated isobutylene‐co‐paramethyl styrene and its blends with ethylene propylene diene terpolymer (EPDM) in the continuous milling operation
Authors: Kumar Bhuwneesh , De P. P. , De S. K. , Bhowmick A. K. , Peiffer D. G.
Published: October 2002

The milling behavior of brominated isobutylene‐co‐paramethylstyrene (BIMS), ethylene propylene diene terpolymer (EPDM), and their blends was investigated over a range of temperatures and friction ratios using the continuous milling operation. At 30 °C, BIMS forms a loose nervy appearance and, as the temperature is increased to 90 °C, it gradually forms a tight elastic band. EPDM forms a loose band at all temperatures and friction ratios studied. For different blends of BIMS and EPDM, the milling behavior changes from a tight elastic band to a loose bagging band on increasing the EPDM content. Addition of different fillers results in lowering of the tendency to go to the back roll, even at lower temperatures. In all the filled systems, a smooth, regular, and tight elastic band is obtained at all the temperatures and friction ratios studied. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 85: 1484–1495, 2002
Removable foams based on an epoxy resin incorporating reversible Diels–Alder adducts
Authors: Mcelhanon James R. , Russick Edward M. , Wheeler David R. , Loy Douglas A. , Aubert James H.
Published: October 2002

We have successfully incorporated Diels–Alder reversible chemistry into epoxy resins. The Diels–Alder chemistry goes in the forward direction at 60 °C and reverses at or above 90 °C. One resin was formulated with other commercial ingredients into foamed epoxy. The foam, shown to have mechanical properties similar to foams formed with conventional epoxy resins, is being utilized for electronic encapsulation. Because of the built‐in reversible chemistry, the foams can be easily removed by dissolution in 1‐butanol at 90 °C. Removal allows for the rework, upgrading, or dismantlement of the electronic components. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 85: 1496–1502, 2002
High‐pressure phase equilibria for a styrene/CO2/polystyrene ternary system
Authors: Wu Jialong , Pan Qinmin , Rempel Garry L.
Published: October 2002

To reveal the possibility of supercritical (SC)‐CO2‐assisted devolatilization of polystyrene, the equilibrium composition data for the CO2 phase in a styrene/CO2/polystyrene ternary system is determined by a semistatic experimental technique. The parameters in the lattice–fluid equation of state of Sanchez and Lacombe are determined for the investigated system. The distribution coefficients of styrene between the polymer and the supercritical fluid phases are investigated experimentally at 318 and 328 K over the pressure range of 12–20 MPa. The binary interaction parameter between styrene and CO2 is obtained by regression of the vapor–liquid equilibrium data. The interaction parameter between CO2 and polystyrene is calculated by using the sorption data from the literature, and the interaction parameter between styrene and polystyrene is optimized by using the measured data of this study. The investigation of the distribution coefficients indicates that styrene can be removed from polystyrene by SC‐CO2 at near room temperature and moderately high pressures. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 85: 1938–1944, 2002
Development of soybean oil‐based composites by solid freeform fabrication method: Epoxidized soybean oil with bis or polyalkyleneamine curing agents system
Authors: Liu Z. S. , Erhan S. Z. , Xu J. , Calvert P. D.
Published: October 2002

Soybean oil‐based composites are prepared by the solid freeforming fabrication (SFF) method. Epoxidized soybean oil is solidified with a gelling agent, and composites are formed by fiber reinforcement. Glass, carbon, and mineral fibers are used in the formulations. The type of fiber and degree of fiber alignments affect the properties of the composites. In addition, the effects of curing agents, curing temperature, fiber combination, and fiber loading on mechanical properties of composites and dynamic analysis are studied and reported. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 85: 2100–2107, 2002
Relationship of structure and properties of phosphine‐containing catalysts in reactions with epoxy and phenol compounds
Authors: Nagai Akira , Kokaku Hiroyoshi , Ishii Toshiaki
Published: October 2002

Triphenylphosphine (TPP) derivatives, which are catalysts of reactions with epoxy and phenol compounds, were investigated regarding the melting behavior and catalyst effect. The melting behavior was measured by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and the relationship of melting behavior (melting point and heat of fusion) and chemical structure were discussed using the heat of formation calculated by a semiempirical method. Two schemes are proposed for the reactions with epoxy and phenol compounds: a complex formation scheme, and an ionic scheme. The ionic scheme was the predominant route in the reactions with epoxy and phenol compounds in the bulk state at high temperature (180°C) on the basis of DSC measurements of the curing reaction and the semiempirical calculation of the heat of formation of products and partial charge of the phosphine group in the TPP derivatives. Consequently, the reaction rate of epoxy and phenol compounds decreased by introducing electron‐withdrawing substituents such as chlorine in the basic catalyst. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 85: 2335–2341, 2002
Calcium dicarboxylates nucleation of β‐polypropylene
Authors: Li Xiaojun , Hu Keliang , Ji Mingrong , Huang Yunlan , Zhou Guien
Published: October 2002

Seven dicarboxylates of calcium were synthesized. The effect of dicarboxylate on the formation of β‐form polypropylene was investigated by X‐ray diffraction. Calcium pimelate, calcium suberate, calcium phthalate, and calcium terephthalate have been found to be an effective β‐nucleator. The Kx values of the isotatic propylene samples with 0.5 wt % of the nucleators above are 0.95, 0.96, 0.93, and 0.62, respectively. Calcium succinate, calcium adipate, and calcium sebacate behave invalidly on the nucleating of the β‐phase. We conducted an investigation on the affect of particle shape, crystal form, and crystallinity upon the level of the β‐form. The X‐ray diffraction of the effective nucleators reveals a common character that their first reflection locate at the d‐spacing between 10 to 13 Å, indicating structural similarity of the nucleators with β‐polypropylene. The nucleation mechanism is explained by the cooperative effect of the nonpolar and polar part of nucleating agents in the crystallization of polypropylene. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 86: 633–638, 2002
Enhanced strain hardening in elongational viscosity for HDPE/crosslinked HDPE blend. I. Characteristics of crosslinked HDPE
Authors: Yamaguchi Masayuki , Suzuki Ken‐Ichi , Maeda Shingo
Published: October 2002

Blending a crosslinked high‐density polyethylene (xHDPE) enhances melt strength and strain hardening behavior in elongational viscosity of high‐density polyethylene (HDPE) to a great degree. Gel fraction of xHDPE has a stronger effect on the strain hardening than sol fraction, although sol fraction also enhances the strain hardening to some degree. Further, the xHDPE crosslinked by peroxide in a compression mold exhibits more pronounced effect than xHDPE by radiation, which is attributed to the difference in the amount of the gel fraction. The xHDPE, which enhances the strain hardening, has sparse crosslink points in the network. Moreover, it was found from linear viscoelastic measurements, such as oscillatory modulus and relaxation modulus, that the xHDPE is characterized as a critical gel, which was also supported by the result of tensile testing. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 86: 73–78, 2002
Influence of compatibilizers on mechanical properties, crystallization, and morphology of polypropylene/scrap rubber dust blends
Authors: Phinyocheep P. , Axtell F. H. , Laosee T.
Published: October 2002

Polypropylene blends containing a dispersed phase of scrap rubber dusts obtained from sport shoes manufacture; midsole (M, vulcanized EVA foam) and outsole (O, vulcanized rubber blend of NR, SBR, and BR) were studied. The influence of various compatibilizers on the mechanical properties of these blends were investigated. Significant development of impact strength was attained by using 6 and 10 phr of styrene–ethylene–butylene–styrene (SEBS) and maleic anhydride‐grafted styrene–ethylene–butylene–styrene (SEBS‐g‐MA) as compatibilizers for both compounds filled with midsole and outsole dusts. The tensile strength of each compound was slightly decreased when the compatibilizer loading increased, whereas the elongation at break was significantly increased. The enhancements of the impact strength and the elongation at break are believed to arise from reduction of interfacial tension between two phases of the rubber and the PP, which results in some reduction of the particle size of the fillers. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) confirmed the evidence of the reduction of scrap rubber dust into small rubber particle sizes in the compound, and also showed the occurrence of some fibrils. Optical microscopy (crossed polars) observations suggested that the addition of the rubber dust resulted in a less regular spherulite texture and less sharp spherulite boundaries. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 86: 148–159, 2002
The effect of mercapto‐modified ethylene–vinyl acetate (EVA) on curing parameters, mechanical properties, and thermal properties of vulcanized styrene–butadiene rubber (SBR)/EVA blends
Authors: Soares Bluma G. , Alves Fabrício F. , Oliveira Marcia G. , Moreira Ana C. F.
Published: October 2002

The effect of EVA functionalized with mercapto groups (EVALSH) on the compatibilization of SBR and EVA copolymer blends was investigated in vulcanized systems based on sulfur or dicumyl peroxide (DCP). The presence of EVALSH resulted in an improvement of the tensile properties, indicating the reactive compatibilizing effect of this compound. The best mechanical performance was achieved with the sulfur‐curing system for both compatibilized and noncompatibilized blends. The blend systems were also analyzed by scanning electron microscopy, differential scanning calorimetry, and dynamic‐mechanical analysis. The crystallinity of the EVA phase was significantly affected by the presence of the EVALSH, whereas no substantial change was detected on the damping properties or the glass transition temperature of the SBR phase. Considering the aging properties, the presence of EVALSH increases the thermal stability of the blends vulcanized with DCP. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 86: 239–249, 2002
Effect of maturation on the bulk viscosity and molecular chain length of cuplump natural rubber
Authors: Ehabe E. , Le Roux Y. , Ngolemasango F. , Bonfils F. , Nkeng G. , Nkouonkam B. , Sainte‐Beuve J. , Gobina M. S.
Published: October 2002

The effects of the maturation and storage of naturally coagulated latex, generally termed cuplumps, on some bulk rheological properties and on parameters characterizing the macromolecular chain length were investigated for natural rubbers of different clonal typologies. The sensitivity of the clonal material to the degradative effects of cuplump maturation increased with the level of tree energetic metabolism, with the most metabolically active plant materials (e.g., PB 235) being most sensitive, whereas the less active clone PB 217 was less sensitive. A definite relationship evolves between Hevea tree metabolism and the stability of the structure of the biosynthesized rubber. The results presented here highlight at a macromolecular level the effects of maturation previously demonstrated on bulk processing parameters. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 86: 703–708, 2002
Raman spectra of high‐density, low‐density, and linear low‐density polyethylene pellets and prediction of their physical properties by multivariate data analysis
Authors: Sato Harumi , Shimoyama Masahiko , Kamiya Taeko , Amari Toru , Šašic Slobodan , Ninomiya Toshio , Siesler Heinz W. , Ozaki Yukihiro
Published: October 2002

Raman spectra have been measured for pellets of five samples of high‐density polyethylene (HDPE), seven samples of low‐density polyethylene (LDPE), and six samples of linear low‐density polyethylene (LLDPE). The obtained Raman spectra have been compared to find out characteristic Raman bands of HDPE, LDPE, and LLDPE. Principal component analysis (PCA) was applied to the Raman spectra in the 1600–650 cm−1 region after multiplicative scatter correction (MSC) to discriminate the Raman spectra of the three different PE species. They are classified into three groups by a score plot of PCA factor 1 vs. 2. HDPE with high density and high crystallinity gives high scores on the factor 1 axis, while LDPE with low density and low crystallinity yields negative scores on the same axis. It seems that factor 1 reflects the density or crystallinity. A PC weight loadings plot for factor 1 shows six upward peaks corresponding to the bands arising from the crystalline parts or all‐trans (CH2)n groups and seven downward peaks ascribed to the bands of the amorphous or anisotropic regions and those arising from the short branches. Partial least‐squares (PLS‐1) regression was applied to the Raman spectra after MSC to propose calibration models that predict the density, crystallinity, and melting points of the polyethylenes. The correlation coefficient was calculated to be 0.9941, 0.9800, and 0.9709 for the density, crystallinity, and melting point, respectively, and their root‐mean‐square error of cross validation (RMSECV) was found to be 0.0015, 3.3707, and 2.3745, respectively. The loadings plot of factor 2 for the prediction of melting point is largely different from those for the prediction of density and crystallinity. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 86: 443–448, 2002
Conduction system abnormalities in rat embryos induced by maternal hyperthermia
Authors: Aoyama Naoyoshi , Yamashina Shohei , Poelmann Robert E. , Gittenberger‐De Groot Adriana C. , Izumi Tohru , Soma Kazui , Ohwada Takashi
Published: October 2002

Maternal hyperthermia induces severe malformations in the central nervous system (CNS) in both humans and laboratory animals. These phenomena are accompanied by apoptotic cell death, especially in the developing CNS. Cardiovascular malformations in conjunction with skeletal and CNS abnormalities have been reported in embryos of laboratory animals. In rats, hyperthermic treatment at 43°C for 15 min at day 9 of pregnancy induced various severe external malformations in embryos, such as exencephaly, spina bifida, microphthalmia, anophthalmia, facial cleft or defect, generalized edema, and cardiovascular abnormalities. Examination of the embryonic heart revealed abnormal formation of the conduction system. Although hyperthermia causes marked hemodynamic defects, we could not obtain direct proof of a link between hemodynamic alteration by hyperthermia and malformations of the conduction system. Anat Rec 267:213–219, 2002. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Reduction of joint inflammation and bone erosion in rat adjuvant arthritis by treatment with interleukin‐17 receptor IgG1 Fc fusion protein
Authors: Bush Katherine A. , Farmer Katherine M. , Walker Judith S. , Kirkham Bruce W.
Published: October 2002

Objective

To investigate the role of interleukin‐17 (IL‐17) in inflammatory arthritis by blockade with an IL‐17 receptor/human IgG1 Fc fusion protein (muIL‐17R:Fc) in adjuvant‐induced arthritis (AIA) in the rat.

Methods

AIA was induced in 39 DA rats with the use of Freund's complete adjuvant. Rats received either 7.3 or 20 mg/kg of muIL‐17R:Fc or phosphate buffered saline intraperitoneally every other day from the time of arthritis induction for ∼17 days. Paw volume, arthritis severity, and weight were assessed every 3–4 days. Rats were killed between days 21 and 23 postinduction. Ankles were removed for quantitative radiology and histology and for immunohistochemistry for T cells.

Results

Treatment with muIL‐17R:Fc attenuated paw volume in a dose‐dependent manner. Both the 7.3 and 20 mg/kg doses of muIL‐17R:Fc significantly reduced radiographic scores in the treated rats compared with the controls. The 20 mg/kg dose of muIL‐17R:Fc significantly reduced histology scores compared with the controls. T cell numbers were unchanged in the muIL‐17R:Fc–treated rats as a function of dose.

Conclusion

In vivo blockade of IL‐17 by muIL‐17R:Fc treatment attenuated AIA and reduced joint damage, suggesting that IL‐17 plays an important role in the inflammation and joint destruction of AIA. IL‐17 may be a potential therapeutic target for inflammatory diseases in humans, such as rheumatoid arthritis.
Macrophage subpopulations in rheumatoid synovium: Reduced CD163 expression in CD4+ T lymphocyte–rich microenvironments
Authors: Fonseca J. E. , Edwards J. C. W. , Blades S. , Goulding N. J.
Published: October 2002

Objective

The cell surface glycoprotein CD163 is a member of the cysteine‐rich scavenger receptor family, highly specific for leukocytes of the mononuclear phagocyte lineage. In vitro, it is induced by glucocorticoids, interleukin‐6 (IL‐6), and IL‐10 and down‐regulated by interferon‐γ (IFNγ), indicating that it has a role in antiinflammatory or other immunomodulatory pathways. We assessed CD163 expression in microenvironments within rheumatoid arthritis (RA) synovium to clarify the relationships among CD4+ T lymphocytes, IFNγ, and macrophage function in RA.

Methods

Double immunofluorescence and serial immunoenzymatic studies were performed on normal, osteoarthritic, and RA synovium and tonsil with antibodies to CD163, CD45, CD68, CD14, CD3, CD4, CD8, CD19, and IFNγ.

Results

CD163 was observed on all CD14+ cells in synovium and tonsil with the exception of cells within larger T lymphocyte clusters in synovium and within tonsillar follicles. All brightly CD14+ cells in or around vessel walls (interpreted as immigrant monocytes) were CD163+. CD163 labeled fewer cells than did CD68 in synovial intima, but all CD45+ intimal cells were CD163+. CD4+,IFNγ+ T lymphocytes in RA synovium were chiefly localized within clusters containing CD68+, CD163− cells.

Conclusion

Within RA synovium, CD163 has major advantages as a macrophage marker and does not appear to be restricted to “mature” macrophages. CD163 discriminates between synovial macrophages and synovial intimal fibroblasts, which also stain positively for CD68 in diseased tissue.
Increased thickness of the arterial intima‐media detected by ultrasonography in patients with rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Kumeda Yasuro , Inaba Masaaki , Goto Hitoshi , Nagata Mayumi , Henmi Yasuko , Furumitsu Yutaka , Ishimura Eiji , Inui Kentaro , Yutani Yasutaka , Miki Takami , Shoji Tetsuo , Nishizawa Yoshiki
Published: October 2002

Objective

To determine whether arterial wall thickening is advanced in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients compared with healthy controls by measuring the intima‐media thickness (IMT) of the common carotid and femoral arteries, and to evaluate the factors associated with arterial IMT in patients with RA.

Methods

We studied 138 RA patients and 94 healthy controls (matched for age, sex, and other major risk factors for atherosclerosis). IMT was measured on digitized still images of the common carotid and femoral arteries obtained by high‐resolution ultrasonography (10‐MHz in‐line Sectascanner). Laboratory variables relevant to RA activity were measured by routine methods. The degree of RA progression was assessed by scoring (Larsen method) metacarpophalangeal (MCP) joints on hand radiographs. Activities of daily living were determined by a modified Health Assessment Questionnaire (M‐HAQ) score, and physical activity levels were assessed by ultrasound measurement of the calcaneus (expressed as the osteo‐sono assessment index [OSI] Z score).

Results

Common carotid and femoral artery IMTs were significantly higher (P < 0.05) in RA patients (mean ± SD 0.641 ± 0.127 and 0.632 ± 0.125 mm, respectively) compared with controls (0.576 ± 0.115 and 0.593 ± 0.141 mm, respectively). Multiple regression analysis revealed a significant association between RA and the common carotid artery IMT. Moreover, the common carotid artery IMT in RA patients was positively associated with disease duration, the MCP joint Larsen score, and the M‐HAQ score, and was negatively associated with the calcaneus OSI Z score. No significant association was found between corticosteroid treatment and common carotid artery IMT.

Conclusion

RA patients exhibited greater thickness of the common carotid and femoral arteries than healthy controls. The duration and severity of RA and decreased activities of daily living, but not corticosteroid treatment, were independently associated with the increased arterial wall thickness.
The effect of anti‐CD40 ligand antibody on B cells in human systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Huang Weiqing , Sinha Jayashree , Newman Jeffrey , Reddy Bhoompally , Budhai Lalbachan , Furie Richard , Vaishnaw Akshay , Davidson Anne
Published: October 2002

Objective

To determine the immunologic effects of anti–CD40 ligand (anti‐CD40L) therapy in 5 patients with systemic lupus erythematosus nephritis who participated in an open‐label study of a humanized anti‐CD40L monoclonal antibody.

Methods

Serum and peripheral blood mononuclear cells were obtained before, during, and after treatment, and the frequency of Ig and anti‐DNA antibody–secreting B cells was analyzed by enzyme‐linked immunospot assay and by analysis of Epstein‐Barr virus (EBV)–transformed B cell lines. To determine the effect of treatment on somatic mutation of Ig genes, reverse transcriptase–polymerase chain reaction was performed on messenger RNA from 4 patients, using primers specific for the DP‐47 heavy chain gene and for IgG. Finally, B cell phenotype was investigated using flow cytometry.

Results

Even a brief period of treatment with anti‐CD40L markedly reduced the frequency of IgG and IgG anti‐DNA antibody–producing B cells, and these changes persisted for several months after cessation of treatment. To confirm these findings, EBV‐transformed B cell lines were screened from each of 3 patients, and a 10‐fold decrease in anti‐DNA antibody–secreting cell lines was found after treatment in all 3 patients. Few differences in mutation patterns were observed before and after treatment; however, the frequency of germline‐encoded DP‐47 sequences was significantly increased before treatment and normalized following treatment. Flow cytometric analysis of B cells revealed expansion of a CD27−/IgD− B cell subset in some of the patients, which did not change with treatment.

Conclusion

These are the first mechanistic studies of the effect of anti‐CD40L therapy in human autoimmune disease. The results suggest that further studies of CD40L blockade are warranted.
Costimulatory blockade in patients with rheumatoid arthritis: A pilot, dose‐finding, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled clinical trial evaluating CTLA‐4Ig and LEA29Y eighty‐five days after the first infusion
Authors: Moreland Larry W. , Alten Rieke , Van Den Bosch Filip , Appelboom Thierry , Leon Marc , Emery Paul , Cohen Stanley , Luggen Michael , Shergy William , Nuamah Isaac , Becker Jean‐Claude
Published: October 2002

Objective

T cells are involved in the pathogenesis of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). In animal models of autoimmune diseases, blockade of costimulatory molecules on antigen‐presenting cells has been demonstrated to be effective in preventing or treating this disease by preventing T cell activation. To date, the effect of costimulatory blockade in patients with RA is unknown. The goal of this multicenter, multinational study was to determine the safety and preliminary efficacy of costimulatory blockade using CTLA‐4Ig and LEA29Y in RA patients who have been treated unsuccessfully with at least 1 disease‐modifying agent.

Methods

CTLA‐4Ig, LEA29Y (0.5, 2, or 10 mg/kg), or placebo was administered intravenously to 214 patients with RA. Patients received 4 infusions of study medication, on days 1, 15, 29, and 57, and were evaluated on day 85. The primary end point was the proportion of patients meeting the American College of Rheumatology 20% improvement criteria (ACR20). All patients were monitored for treatment safety and tolerability.

Results

CTLA‐4Ig and LEA29Y infusions were well tolerated at all dose levels. Peri‐infusional adverse events were carefully monitored, and showed similar incidence across all dose groups with the exception of headaches, which were slightly more frequent in the 2 treatment groups. The incidence of discontinuations due to worsening of RA was 19%, 12%, and 9% at 0.5, 2, and 10 mg/kg, respectively, in the CTLA‐4Ig–treated patients and 3%, 3%, and 6% at 0.5, 2, and 10 mg/kg, respectively, in the LEA29Y‐treated patients (versus 31% in the placebo group). ACR20 responses on day 85 had increased in a dose‐dependent manner (23%, 44%, and 53% of CTLA‐4Ig–treated patients and 34%, 45%, and 61% of LEA29Y‐treated patients at 0.5, 2.0, and 10 mg/kg, respectively, versus 31% of placebo‐treated patients).

Conclusion

Both of the costimulatory blocking molecules studied were generally safe and well tolerated. As compared with placebo, both CTLA‐4Ig and LEA29Y demonstrated efficacy in the treatment of RA.
Role of the Fcγ receptor IIa polymorphism in susceptibility to systemic lupus erythematosus and lupus nephritis: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Karassa Fotini B. , Trikalinos Thomas A. , Ioannidis John P. A.
Published: October 2002

Objective

To assess the impact of the Fcγ receptor type IIa (FcγRIIa)–R/H131 polymorphism on the risk for systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and development of lupus nephritis.

Methods

A meta‐analysis was performed based on the Medline and Embase databases (last retrieval August 2001), assessment of bibliographies of pertinent articles, and additional data gathered after contact with primary investigators.

Results

A total of 25 comparisons from 17 studies involving R/H131 genotyping of 1,405 patients with lupus nephritis, 1,709 SLE patients without nephritis, and 2,580 non‐SLE controls were included. No association between RR genotype and risk of lupus nephritis relative to both other genotypes (odds ratio [OR] 1.05, 95% confidence interval [95% CI] 0.88–1.27) was demonstrated in the total meta‐analysis or in any racial subgroup. The RR genotype was more frequent in SLE patients as a whole (OR 1.30, 95% CI 1.10–1.52) and in SLE patients without nephritis (OR 1.27, 95% CI 1.04–1.55) compared with disease‐free controls. A potential dose–response relation between the R131 allele and the risk of SLE was also identified, with an OR of 1.23 for RR versus RH (95% CI 1.03–1.46). The OR was 1.55 for RR versus HH (95% CI 1.21–1.98). There was no significant heterogeneity between racial subgroups. The population‐attributable fractions of SLE cases due to the FcγRIIa‐R131 allele were 13%, 40%, and 24% in subjects of European, African, and Asian descent, respectively.

Conclusion

The FcγRIIa‐R/H131 polymorphism represents a significant risk factor for SLE but has no clear effect on susceptibility for lupus nephritis.
Reduction of CpG‐induced arthritis by suppressive oligodeoxynucleotides
Authors: Zeuner Rainald A. , Ishii Ken J. , Lizak Martin J. , Gursel Ihsan , Yamada Hiroshi , Klinman Dennis M. , Verthelyi Daniela
Published: October 2002

Objective

Bacterial DNA contains immunostimulatory CpG motifs that cause inflammation when injected into the knee joints of normal mice. We examined whether synthetic oligodeoxynucleotides (ODN) that suppress CpG‐induced immune responses prevent CpG‐induced arthritis.

Methods

CpG, suppressive, and/or control ODN were injected into the knees of BALB/c mice. Joint swelling and inflammation were evaluated by physical measurement, by histologic analysis of joint tissue, and by magnetic resonance imaging.

Results

Immunostimulatory CpG DNA induced local arthritis, characterized by swelling of the knee joints, the presence of inflammatory cell infiltrates, the perivascular accumulation of mononuclear cells, and hyperplasia of the synovial lining. Administering suppressive (but not control) ODN reduced the manifestations and severity of arthritis up to 80%.

Conclusion

Suppressive ODN may be useful for the prevention or treatment of arthritis induced by bacterial DNA.
Data discretization for novel relationship discovery in information retrieval
Authors: Benoît G.
Published: October 2002

This article describes an information retrieval, visualization, and manipulation model. After term or phrases have been input for a query, the system designed on this model offers the user multiple ways to exploit the retrieval set via an interactive interface. The retrieved data are clustered into thematic concepts related to the query, represented on screen as a grid of nodes. Users of the system may manipulate the retrieval set to explore document–document, document–concept, concept–concept relationships in the retrieval set that might otherwise be masked by altering (a) the discrete grid size of the display, (b) the influence, or weight, of various document terms and properties, and (c) mixed levels of granularity. As these factors are reweighed, the display is updated in real‐time to expose unanticipated document relationships, and shifts in cluster membership. The article outlines the mathematical model and then describes an information‐retrieval application built on the model to search structured and full‐text files. The application, written in Java, uses a small test collection of Dialog and Swiss‐Prot documents.
Work tasks and socio‐cognitive relevance: A specific example
Authors: Hjørland Birger , Christensen Frank Sejer
Published: October 2002

This article presents a concrete example of a work task: a doctor treating a patient suffering from schizophrenia. It is outlined how work task, work situation, perceived work situation, task complexity, information need, information seeking and topicality, situational relevance, relevance assessment (including a discussion of system relevance and algorithmic relevance) and work task fulfillment may be understood. Relevance is defined as something serving as a tool to a goal. “Tool” understood in the widest possible sense, including ideas, meanings, theories and documents as tools.
Judging the accuracy of a likelihood judgment: the case of smoking risk
Authors: Windschitl Paul D.
Published: October 2002

A standard method for assessing whether people have appropriate internal representations of an event's likelihood is to check whether their subjective probability or frequency estimates for the event correspond with the assumed objective value for that event. When a person's estimate for the event exceeds its assumed objective probability or frequency, the person's expectancy for the event is concluded to be greater than warranted. This paper describes three lines of reasoning as to why conclusions of this sort can be problematic. Recently published findings as well as data from two new experiments are described to support this main thesis. The case of smoking risk is used to illustrate the more general problem, and issues that must be considered to avoid or contend with the problem are discussed. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Aging and decision‐making competence: an analysis of comprehension and consistency skills in older versus younger adults considering health‐plan options
Authors: Finucane Melissa L. , Slovic Paul , Hibbard Judith H. , Peters Ellen , Mertz C. K. , MacGregor Donald G.
Published: October 2002

Older adults need to maintain strong decision‐making capabilities as they age. However, we know little about how age‐related physical and psychological changes affect older adults' judgment and decision processes. This paper reports the results of research comparing older versus younger adults' performance on evaluation and choice tasks about health‐plan options. In particular, comprehension and consistency in judgments (across separate versus joint evaluation contexts) were examined. Results indicated that increasing age was related to greater comprehension errors and inconsistent preferences, even when covariates (education, income, gender, self‐perceived skill and health, decision style, and attitude toward delegation) were taken into account. Discussion of the results emphasizes difficulties in interpreting the meaning of age differences in performance on decision tasks and the need for research that ascertains the seriousness of the consequences of age differences in real‐life tasks. The implications for providing decision‐aiding interventions for older adults are highlighted. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
DNA binding induces conformational transition within human DNA topoisomerase I in solution
Authors: Oleinikov Vladimir , Sukhanova Alyona , Mochalov Konstantin , Ustinova Olga , Kudelina Irina , Bronstein Igor , Nabiev Igor
Published: October 2002

We employed Raman and circular dichroism (CD) spectroscopy to probe the molecular structure of 68‐kDa recombinant human DNA topoisomerase I (TopoI) in solution, in a complex with a 16‐bp DNA fragment containing a camptothecin‐enhanced TopoI cleavage site, and in a ternary complex with this oligonucleotide and topotecan. Raman spectroscopy reveals a TopoI secondary structure transition and significant changes in the hydrogen bonding of the tyrosine residues induced by the DNA binding. CD spectroscopy confirms the Raman data and identifies a DNA‐induced (>7%) decrease of the TopoI α helix accompanied by at least a 6% increase of the β structure. The Raman DNA molecular signatures demonstrated a bandshift that is expected for a net change in the environment of guanine C6O groups from pairing to solvent exposure. The formation of a ternary cleavage complex with TopoI, DNA, and topotecan as probed by CD spectroscopy reveals neither additional modifications of the TopoI secondary structure nor of the oligonucleotide structure, compared to the TopoI–oligonucleotide complex. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Biopolymers (Biospectroscopy) 67: 369–375, 2002
Anomalously high cooperativity of oligodeoxycytidylic acid for luminescence resonance energy transfer to lanthanide ions
Authors: Lee Jihee , Park Minyoung , Son Hyung Su , Lee Sang Bum , Lee Hee Cheon , Ku Ja Kang , Park Joon Won
Published: October 2002

The luminescence of terbium(III) and europium(III) through luminescence resonance energy transfer from mononucleotides and oligodeoxynucleotides is examined. Among mononucleotides, dGMP gives the strongest luminescence of terbium(III), while dTMP and dCMP yield a luminescence intensity of europium(III) that is larger than the other two cases. In the homodeoxydecamers, decadeoxycytidylic acid (dC10) produces the highest intensity for both metals. The anomalously large cooperativity of dC10 is explained by the easiness of deformation of the helical structure to bind lanthanide ions, and a circular dichroism study supports this explanation. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Biopolymers (Biospectroscopy) 67: 413–420, 2002
Determination of isokinetic ratios necessary for equimolar incorporation of carboxylic acids in the solid‐phase synthesis of mixture‐based combinatorial libraries
Authors: Acharya Achyuta N. , Ostresh John M. , Houghten Richard A.
Published: October 2002

The methods used to study the relative reaction rates of 45 different aliphatic and aromatic carboxylic acids when coupled to resin‐bound amino acid amides is described. Competition experiments involving the coupling of incoming carboxylic acids to resin‐bound amino acid amides were performed. The relative composition of each N‐acylated amino acid amide in the resulting mixtures was compared to controls prepared by physically mixing equal aliquots of individual compounds in order to study the relative reaction rates of the incoming carboxylic acids. The ratios of the incoming carboxylic acids were then iteratively adjusted to yield as close to equimolar products as possible. As expected, the steric and electronic nature of the incoming carboxylic acids was found to influence their relative reaction rates. The steric hindrance of the resin‐bound amino acid appears to have a proportional effect on the reaction rates of the incoming carboxylic acids. N‐acylated amino acid amides in the final mixtures, prepared using the final isokinetic ratios, were found to be approximately equimolar. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Biopolymers 65: 32–39, 2002
Three‐dimensional simulation of grain mixing in three different rotating drum designs for solid‐state fermentation
Authors: Schutyser M. A. I. , Weber F. J. , Briels W. J. , Boom R. M. , Rinzema A.
Published: October 2002

A previously published two‐dimensional discrete particle simulation model for radial mixing behavior of various slowly rotating drums for solid‐state fermentation (SSF) has been extended to a three‐dimensional model that also predicts axial mixing. Radial and axial mixing characteristics were predicted for three different drum designs: (1) without baffles; (2) with straight baffles; and (3) with curved baffles. The axial mixing behavior was studied experimentally with video‐ and image‐analysis techniques. In the drum without baffles and with curved baffles the predicted mixing behavior matched the observed behavior adequately. The predicted axial mixing behavior in the drum with straight baffles was predicted less accurately, and it appeared to be strongly dependent on particle rotation, which was in contrast to the other drum designs. In the drum with curved baffles complete mixing in the radial and axial direction was achieved much faster than in the other designs; that is, it was already achieved after three to four rotations. This drum design may therefore be very well suited to SSF. It is concluded that discrete particle simulations provide valuable detailed knowledge about particle transport processes, and this may help to understand and optimize related heat and mass transfer processes in SSF. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Biotechnol Bioeng 79: 284–294, 2002.
Inverse metabolic engineering: A strategy for directed genetic engineering of useful phenotypes
Authors: Bailey James E. , Sburlati Adriana , Hatzimanikatis Vassily , Lee Kelvin , Renner Wolfgang A. , Tsai Philip S.
Published: October 2002

The classical method of metabolic engineering, identifying a rate‐determining step in a pathway and alleviating the bottleneck by enzyme overexpression, has motivated much research but has enjoyed only limited practical success. Intervention of other limiting steps, of counter‐balancing regulation, and of unknown coupled pathways often confounds this direct approach. Here the concept of inverse metabolic engineering is codified and its application is illustrated with several examples. Inverse metabolic engineering means the elucidation of a metabolic engineering strategy by: first, identifying, constructing, or calculating a desired phenotype; second, determining the genetic or the particular environmental factors conferring that phenotype; and third, endowing that phenotype on another strain or organism by directed genetic or environmental manipulation. This paradigm has been successfully applied in several contexts, including elimination of growth factor requirements in mammalian cell culture and increasing the energetic efficiency of microaerobic bacterial respiration. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Biotechnol Bioeng 79: 568–579, 2002.
A teen court evaluation with a therapeutic jurisprudence perspective
Authors: Weisz Victoria , Lott Roger C. , Thai Nghi D.
Published: October 2002

Teen court defendants were assessed on several attitudinal measures when they entered and when they completed their teen court program. Teen court volunteers and high school civics students in a control group were assessed on the same measures at two points in time that approximated the length of teen court involvement for defendants. Re‐offense rates for defendants were assessed. In addition, defendants and their parents completed satisfaction surveys. The teen court experience did not significantly impact the attitudes and beliefs of either the defendants or the volunteers. The re‐offense rate for defendants was 13%, which is similar to other teen court programs and less than the re‐offense rate for the general diversion program in the county that was the target of the study. Since this teen court selected youth with the least serious delinquency activity (primarily shoplifting), conclusions about the program's effectiveness in reducing further offending cannot be made. Defendants and their parents reported high levels of satisfaction with their teen court experience but defendants became more alienated from institutional authority. This study did not support the teen court experience as having a generally beneficial impact on defendants or volunteers that would be expected from a therapeutic jurisprudence perspective. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Cross‐examination, sexual abuse and child witness identity
Authors: Westcott Helen L , Page Marcus
Published: October 2002

This paper presents extracts from cross‐examinations with child witnesses who are alleged victims of child sexual abuse. The manner in which cross‐examination may present a challenge to the child's identity as child, victim and witness is discussed. Specifically, the child may be portrayed as ‘unchildlike’, for example in their experience of sexual relationships or in their sexual knowledge. They may be portrayed as less than innocent, through references to previous contacts with social services or to other behaviours such as delinquency. Child witnesses may be depicted as instigators rather than victims, seducing the adult or seeking revenge through sexual allegations. Finally, children are easily accused of being poor witnesses, as being confused, untruthful and having fallible memories. The paper considers the dynamics and potential impact of such cross‐examination practice within Finkelhor's framework of four traumagenics of sexual abuse: traumatic sexualization, betrayal, powerlessness and stigmatization. The potential for poorly conducted cross‐examinations to create further problems for child witnesses, particularly in the area of identity, is highlighted, and it is suggested traumagenic factors in such cross‐examinations may resemble those of abuse. The paper discusses practice implications for cross‐examination, judicial intervention and witness support following implementation of the Youth Justice and Criminal Evidence Act 1999 in England and Wales. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Sources and information: Community college faculty
Authors: Fleming Michael
Published: October 2002

This annotated bibliography presents additional information related to community college faculty, including attitudes and perceptions, professional development, faculty evaluation, and recruitment.