bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
AN ALASKAN MOSQUITO
Authors: Ludlow C. S.
Published: February 2010

Among some mosquitoes lately sent from Alaska is a species which, coming from the far north (65° N.), has the unique position of standing near three mosquitoes found in much warmer climates, i.e., Theobaldia annulata, Sharnk, found in Europe, Mexico and California, an Italian species of which Falbici says, “Fin ora fu trovata solamenta a Macareseed a Pato,” and penetrans, R. Desvoidy, found in France.
ON DR. WM. DIETZ'S REVISION OF THE TINEIDÆ (HEINEMANN)
Authors: Busck August
Published: February 2010

The long-expected paper by Dr. Wm Dietz entitled: “Revision of the Tineid Subfamilies, Amydriinœ and Tineinœ, inhabiting North America,” appeared during the writer's absence in Europe, and a subsequent summer's expedition to the West Indies make it impossible to give this important contribution to the knowledge of our American Tinediæ the attention it deserved before early this year.
POPULAR AND PRACTICAL ENTOMOLOGY.—No. 18.: The Bean Weevil (Bruchus obtectus, Say)
Authors: Gibson Arthur
Published: February 2010

An insect which, fortunately, has only been reported on a few occasions as doing damage in Canada, is the Bean Weevil, Bruchus obtectus, Say. Authetic instances of injury by this insect haven been received from one locality in Ontario, and from two in Quebec. The injury in all cases was to seed beans.
CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE ENTOMOLOGY OF THE SELKIRK MOUNTAINS OF BRITISH COLUMBIA.—I. INTRODUCTORY
Authors: Bradley J. Chester
Published: February 2010

In company with a party of botanists and others, the wirter spent the summer of 1905 in the Selkirk Mountains of British Columbia, much of the time in scientifically unexplored parts of that beautiful range. The Selkirks occupy the major part of teh Kootenay district of south-eastern British Columbia. It will be seen by reference to a map that they are bounded on practically all sides by the Columbia and Kootenay Rivers and the long and narrow Kootenay Lake.
GEOMETRID NOTES
Authors: Pearsall Richard. F.
Published: February 2010

The genus Trichodezia, Warren, established in 1895 (Nov. Zool. II, Part 2, page 119), will now contain two of our species. In a former paper (Can. Ent., Vol. 38, p. 38) I stated that Euchœca albovittata, Guen., should, as Mr. Warren placed it, be recognized as the type of this genus, and ventured to predict that Euchœca Californiata, Pack., would go with it. Since then, through the kindness of Mr. Beütenmuller, of the Amer. Museum of Nat. History, N.Y., I have received a male of this species, and find the peculiar generic characters present.
PRELIMINARY LIST OF THE MACRO-LEPIDOPTERA OF ALBERTA, N.-W.T
Authors: Dod F. H. Wolley
Published: February 2010

452. Rachela Bruceata, Hulst.— Not observed previous to 1898. It appeared in millions in 1902, and in the following year was still more abundant. In those two years hundreds of acres of Populus tremuloides were completely denuded by the larv♀ during June. It appeared to be aided in its depredations by a Tortix, the name of which I have not yet discovered, but subsequent observation brings me to belive that by far the greater part of the denudation was caused by this species.
Distinct Phenotype and Function of NK Cells in the Pancreas of Nonobese Diabetic Mice
Authors: Brauner Hanna , Elemans Marjet , Lemos Sara , Broberger Christian , Holmberg Dan , Flodström-Tullberg Malin , Kärre Klas , Höglund Petter
Published: February 2010

Little is known about target organ-infiltrating NK cells in type 1 diabetes and other autoimmune diseases. In this study, we identified NK cells with a unique phenotype in the pancreas of NOD mice. Pancreatic NK cells, localized to the endocrine and exocrine parts, were present before T cells during disease development and did not require T cells for their infiltration. Furthermore, NK cells, or NK cell precursors, from the spleen could traffic to the pancreas, where they displayed the pancreatic phenotype. Pancreatic NK cells from other mouse strains shared phenotypic characteristics with pancreatic NK cells from NOD mice, but displayed less surface killer cell lectin-like receptor G1, a marker for mature NK cells that have undergone proliferation, and also did not proliferate to the same extent. A subset of NOD mouse pancreatic NK cells produced IFN-γ spontaneously, suggesting ongoing effector responses. However, most NOD mouse pancreatic NK cells were hyporesponsive compared with spleen NK cells, as reflected by diminished cytokine secretion and a lower capacity to degranulate. Interestingly, such hyporesponsiveness was not seen in pancreatic NK cells from the nonautoimmune strain C57BL/6, suggesting that this feature is not a general property of pancreatic NK cells. Based on our data, we propose that NK cells are sentinel cells in a normal pancreas. We further speculate that during inflammation, pancreatic NK cells initially mediate proinflammatory effector functions, potentially contributing to organ-specific autoimmunity, but later become hyporesponsive because of exhaustion or regulation.
Impact of the medicare modernization act of 2003 on utilization and spending for medicare part B–covered biologics in rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Doshi Jalpa A. , Li Pengxiang , Puig Andrea
Published: January 2010

Objective

To examine changes in utilization and expenditures for infliximab in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients associated with the 2 changes implemented by the Medicare Prescription Drug Improvement and Modernization Act (MMA) of 2003, specifically 1) reductions in physician reimbursement for Part B drugs between 2003 and 2005 and 2) availability of alternative RA biologics in 2006.

Methods

Using 2002–2006 5% Medicare files, nationally representative estimates of infliximab use and expenditures were estimated in annual cross‐sectional samples of RA beneficiaries. Infliximab initiation and continuation rates were estimated in 2‐year longitudinal cohorts (2005–2006 versus 2002–2003, 2003–2004, and 2004–2005).

Results

Total payments (in 2006 dollars) for infliximab increased from $357 million in 2002 to $492 million in 2006. The largest annual increase in infliximab payments occurred in the pre‐MMA period from 2002 to 2003, wherein payments per RA patient increased by 31%. From 2003 to 2004, despite the reduction in payments brought by the MMA, there was a 4% increase in total expenditures for infliximab per RA patient driven by an increase in utilization factors. Total payments for infliximab per RA patient actually decreased from 2004 to 2005, when reimbursement was further reduced. Continuation and initiation rates for infliximab use remained unchanged in 2006, as compared with previous years.

Conclusion

Infliximab expenditures increased from 2002 to 2006, yet the passage of the MMA was associated with a remarkable slowdown in the rate of increase in expenditures. There was no evidence of significant substitution of infliximab with other biologics made available in 2006.
Pregnancy outcomes in women with Familial Mediterranean Fever receiving colchicine: Is amniocentesis justified?
Authors: Ben‐Chetrit Eli , Ben‐Chetrit Avraham , Berkun Yackov , Ben‐Chetrit Eldad
Published: January 2010

Objective

To evaluate the outcome of pregnancies in women with familial Mediterranean fever (FMF) who are taking colchicine, and to reconsider the justification for amniocentesis in these women.

Methods

The outcome of 179 pregnancies in a group of women with FMF taking colchicine was compared with the outcome of 197 pregnancies in women with FMF who did not take colchicine during pregnancy and with 312 pregnancies in another cohort of healthy pregnant women of similar age and ethnicity.

Results

There was no difference in the 3 groups regarding early abortions, late abortions, or congenital malformations. There was a mild trend towards a better outcome for the colchicine‐treated group but these results did not reach statistical significance.

Conclusion

Treatment with colchicine during pregnancy in patients with FMF is beneficial in controlling the disease while not affecting the outcome of the pregnancy; therefore there is no justification for recommending amniocentesis in women taking colchicine solely because of this treatment.
Incidence of childhood linear scleroderma and systemic sclerosis in the UK and Ireland
Authors: Herrick Ariane L. , Ennis Holly , Bhushan Monica , Silman Alan J. , Baildam Eileen M.
Published: January 2010

Objective

Childhood scleroderma encompasses a rare, poorly understood spectrum of conditions. Our aim was to ascertain the incidence of childhood scleroderma in its different forms in the UK and Ireland, and to describe the age, sex, and ethnicity of the cases.

Methods

The members of 5 specialist medical associations including pediatricians, dermatologists, and rheumatologists were asked to report all cases of abnormal skin thickening suspected to be localized (including linear) scleroderma or systemic sclerosis (SSc) in children <16 years of age first seen between July 2005 and July 2007.

Results

We received notification of 185 potential cases, and 94 valid cases were confirmed: 87 (93%) with localized scleroderma and 7 (7%) with SSc. This gave an incidence rate per million children per year of 3.4 (95% confidence interval [95% CI] 2.7–4.1) for localized scleroderma, including an incidence rate of 2.5 (95% CI 1.8–3.1) for linear scleroderma, and 0.27 (95% CI 0.1–0.5) for SSc. Of the 87 localized cases, 62 (71%) had linear disease. Of localized disease cases, 55 (63%) were female, 71 (82%) were classified as white British, and the patients' mean age when first seen in secondary care was 10.4 years. Of the 7 SSc cases, all were female, 6 (86%) were white British, and the mean age when first seen was 12.1 years. The median delay between onset and being first seen was 13.1 months for localized scleroderma and 7.2 months for SSc.

Conclusion

These data provide additional estimates of the incidence of this rare disorder and its subforms.
Impact of systemic lupus erythematosus on health, family, and work: The patient perspective
Authors: Robinson Don , Aguilar Daniel , Schoenwetter Melissa , Dubois Robert , Russak Simcha , Ramsey‐Goldman Rosalind , Navarra Sandra , Hsu Benjamin , Revicki Dennis , Cella David , Rapaport Mark Hyman , Renahan Kevin , Ress Richard , Wallace Daniel , Weisman Michael
Published: January 2010

Objective

Qualitative research among patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) can identify aspects of the disease relevant to clinical research and practice. A phenomenological, mixed‐method approach was used to investigate these disease‐driven health issues.

Methods

A convenience sample of patients with SLE from Los Angeles County, California was recruited from a private, community‐based rheumatology practice for participation in focus groups and interviews. Semistructured discussions explored disease manifestations and impact. A self‐administered questionnaire evaluated the occurrence and importance of disease issues previously identified from literature. Patient health issues were identified through convergence using 1) qualitative analysis of focus group transcripts and 2) quantitative analysis of the questionnaire. Patients were also asked about their ability to accurately recall disease experiences.

Results

Focus group participants (n = 23) had a mean age of 43 years and a mean disease duration of 8 years; 19 (83%) were women and 14 (61%) were white. The most frequent health issues identified by focus group transcript analysis were pain (83%), fatigue (61%), work or school impairment (48%), skin manifestations (43%), and skin sensitivity (43%). Questionnaire findings were similar: the most frequent health issues were inability to do previous activities (87%), fatigue (87%), pain (87%), and work or school impairment (83%). Most interviewed patients (7 of 10) reported an ability to accurately recall disease issues between 24 hours and 7 days.

Conclusion

SLE patients reported signs and symptoms that could significantly impact their functioning in daily life. Treatments that substantially improve these disease manifestations would offer considerable benefit to patients, treating physicians, and general society.
Responsiveness of self‐report and therapist‐rated upper extremity structural impairment and functional outcome measures in early rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Adams Jo , Mullee Mark , Burridge Jane , Hammond Alison , Cooper Cyrus
Published: January 2010

Objective

To provide a responsiveness analysis of the self‐report and therapist‐rated upper extremity functional outcome measures used in a rehabilitation trial.

Methods

A variety of commonly used therapist‐assessed and self‐report structural impairment and functional outcome measures were compared for the ability to detect and measure change in wrist and hand status in an early rheumatoid arthritis population over 12 months. Responsiveness was measured using the standardized response mean (SRM) and effect size (ES).

Results

The most responsive measures were the Michigan Hand Outcomes Questionnaire (SRM 0.49 [95% confidence interval (95% CI) 0.27, 0.72], ES = 0.37 [95% CI 0.21, 0.54]), dominant metacarpophalangeal joint ulnar deviation (SRM 0.46 [95% CI 0.27, 0.65], ES = 0.58 [95% CI 0.34, 0.82]), and mean power handgrip test (SRM 0.45 [95% CI 0.26, 0.64], ES = 0.32 [95% CI 0.18, 0.45]) The least responsive measure was the Health Assessment Questionnaire (SRM −0.12 [95% CI −0.31, 0.08], ES = −0.08 [95% CI −0.21, 0.05]).

Conclusion

Over 12 months, there was substantial variation in wrist and hand outcome measures to detect change over time in an early RA population. Careful consideration is required to choose the most appropriate measure that can detect change.
Increased levels of serum pentraxin 3, a novel cardiovascular biomarker, in patients with inflammatory rheumatic disease
Authors: Hollan Ivana , Bottazzi Barbara , Cuccovillo Ivan , Førre Øystein T. , Mikkelsen Knut , Saatvedt Kjell , Almdahl Sven Martin , Mantovani Alberto , Meroni Pier Luigi ,   Feiring Heart Biopsy Study Group
Published: January 2010

Objective

Pentraxin 3 (PTX3), a key component of innate immunity, is a strong marker of disease severity in coronary artery disease (CAD). The aim of this study was to compare levels of serum PTX3 in CAD patients with and without inflammatory rheumatic disease (IRD) and in healthy controls.

Methods

We examined 69 patients with IRD (CAD/IRD group) and 53 patients without IRD (CAD/non‐IRD) referred to coronary artery bypass grafting, and 30 healthy controls.

Results

The mean ± SD serum PTX3 level in the CAD/IRD group was 1.96 ± 0.98 ng/ml; this was statistically significantly higher than that of the CAD/non‐IRD (1.41 ± 0.74 ng/ml) and healthy control (1.21 ± 0.59 ng/ml) groups. In contrast to most other IRDs, serum PTX3 levels were relatively low in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and other systemic connective tissue diseases. In sex‐ and age‐adjusted analysis, IRD, acute coronary syndromes, and low alcohol intake were associated with higher serum PTX3 levels.

Conclusion

CAD patients with IRD had higher mean serum PTX3 levels than patients without IRD and healthy controls. In addition, acute coronary syndromes and low alcohol intake independently predicted higher serum PTX3 levels. Higher serum PTX3 levels in IRD may be related to the higher cardiovascular risk of IRD patients. Circulating PTX3 could likely be used as a biomarker for severity of cardiovascular disease in IRDs; its importance, however, might be limited in SLE and related disorders.
Separate influences of birth order and gravidity/parity on the development of systemic sclerosis
Authors: Cockrill Tonya , del Junco Deborah J. , Arnett Frank C. , Assassi Shervin , Tan Filemon K. , McNearney Terry , Fischbach Michael , Perry Marilyn , Mayes Maureen D.
Published: January 2010

Objective

Birth order has been valuable in revealing the role of environmental influences on the risk of developing certain diseases such as allergy and atopy. In addition, pregnancy has profound effects on the immune system such as short‐term effects that permit fetal survival as well as longer‐term effects that could influence late‐onset diseases. In order to better evaluate these influences, we studied the association of birth order and gravidity/parity as risk factors for systemic sclerosis (SSc; scleroderma).

Methods

Data regarding SSc cases and their unaffected sibling controls were obtained from the Scleroderma Family Registry and DNA Repository. The case‐sibling design was used to minimize confounding due to differences in age, race, ethnicity, or calendar time. The gravidity/parity analysis was based on sibships with at least one SSc‐affected and one unaffected sister.

Results

Birth order was examined in 974 sibships, comparing SSc cases (n = 987) with their unaffected siblings (n = 3,088). The risk of scleroderma increased with increasing birth order (odds ratio [OR] 1.25, 95% confidence interval [95% CI] 1.06–1.50 for birth order 2–5; OR 2.22, 95% CI 1.57–3.15 for birth order 6–9; and OR 3.53, 95% CI 1.68–7.45 for birth order 10–15). Gravidity/parity was analyzed in 168 sibships (256 unaffected sisters, 172 SSc cases). We found an association between a history of one or more pregnancies and SSc (OR 2.8).

Conclusion

Birth order and pregnancy were independently associated with a higher risk of developing SSc. These findings suggest that immune development in early childhood and/or pregnancy‐associated events, including but not limited to microchimerism, plays a role in SSc susceptibility.
Laboratory and clinical features of pregnant women with antiphospholipid syndrome and neonatal outcome
Authors: Ruffatti A. , Calligaro A. , Hoxha A. , Trevisanuto D. , Ruffatti A. T. , Gervasi M. T. , Cuffaro S. , Pengo V. , Punzi L.
Published: January 2010

Objective

To evaluate the relationship between the antiphospholipid profile and clinical characteristics of pregnant women with antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) and neonatal outcome.

Methods

We retrospectively considered 109 treated pregnancies of 93 patients with primary APS and reviewed the medical records of their 111 infants. Neonatal outcome was assessed using the following variables: weeks of gestational age at delivery, percentiles of birth weight, Apgar score at 5 minutes, need for cardiopulmonary resuscitation in the delivery room, time in the neonatal intensive care unit, infections, and other neonatal complications. Univariate statistical analysis was performed to evaluate the relationship between APS maternal features and neonatal outcome parameters.

Results

When maternal APS features and variables of infant outcome were analyzed, it was evident that lupus anticoagulant (LAC), triple antiphospholipid positivity, and history of vascular thrombosis were significantly associated with some parameters of a poor infant outcome. History of pregnancy morbidity alone was, instead, significantly correlated to the variables of favorable neonatal outcome.

Conclusion

There seems to be more than one kind of pregnant woman with APS. Even when treated with a second‐line therapy plan, mothers with LAC and/or triple antiphospholipid positivity and/or previous thromboembolism seem to have a high probability of poor neonatal outcome, whereas those with pregnancy morbidity alone, treated with conventional drugs, seem to have a high probability of favorable outcome.
Evaluation of three ergonomic measures on productivity, physical work demands, and workload in gypsum bricklayers
Authors: van der Molen Henk F. , Kuijer P. Paul F.M. , Formanoy Margriet , Bron Lennart , Hoozemans Marco J.M. , Visser Bart , Frings‐Dresen Monique H.W.
Published: January 2010

Background

This study evaluated the effects of a combination of three ergonomic measures designed to reduce the risk of low back complaints among gypsum bricklayers. The measures focused on optimizing working height and reducing carrying distances.

Methods

A within‐subjects (N = 10) controlled field study was used to compare the effects of working with the ergonomic measures with those of working with conventional working methods at the worksite during the course of a full working day. Productivity, work demands, and workload were assessed.

Results

No effects were found on productivity, total work time, duration of tasks, duration of carrying, or energetic or biomechanical workload. However, the duration and frequency of working between knee and hip height during a working day increased by 25% and 15%, respectively, due to the ergonomic measures. During the finishing task, the duration and frequency of working below knee level decreased significantly by 4 min and 71 times, respectively.

Conclusion

The limited impact of the ergonomic measures argues for additional measures to reduce the risk of low back complaints. Am. J. Ind. Med. 53: 608–614, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Nanogels of poly(acrylic acid): Uptake and release behavior with fluorescent oligothiophene‐labeled bovine serum albumin
Authors: Argentiere Simona , Blasi Laura , Ciccarella Giuseppe , Barbarella Giovanna , Cingolani Roberto , Gigli Giuseppe
Published: January 2010

Nanometer‐sized poly(acrylic acid) (PAA) hydrogels were synthesized by emulsion polymerization of methyl acrylate and subsequent acidic hydrolysis. The nanohydrogel was characterized by spectroscopic methods (FTIR and 1H‐NMR) and scanning probe techniques, and their pH‐dependent swelling behavior was studied by dynamic light scattering. To determine the suitability of PAA nanogels as pH‐sensitive carriers for biomedical applications, uptake and release of an oligothiophene fluorophore and its albumin conjugated from PAA nanogels were investigated as a function of pH by absorption and photoluminescence measurements. It was observed that uptake and release processes of both the oligothiophene and its conjugate could be controlled by changing the pH of the external solution. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2010
Macroporous bead modification with polyethylenimines of different molecular weights as polycationic ligands
Authors: González Natalia P. , Strumia Miriam C. , Alvarez Igarzabal Cecilia I.
Published: January 2010

Polyethylenimines (PEIs) with different molecular weights [number‐average molecular weights (Mn′s) = 60,000, 1200, and 423] were coupled onto macroporous beads. These rigid and spherical beads were prepared by the crosslinking of 2‐hydroxyethyl methacrylate and ethylene glycol dimethacrylate. The PEI attachment was carried out through epoxy groups yielded in a previous activation step with epichlorohydrin on matrix hydroxyl groups. Different initial concentrations of PEI were assayed. The supports so obtained were characterized by several techniques (Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, and mercury intrusion porosimetry). All of the PEI‐containing beads were used to analyze the influence that the molecular weight, the shape of the polycationic ligand (PEI), and the degree of coupling onto the matrices may have had on the efficiency of the retention of the bovine serum albumin protein used as a model biomolecule. In these assays, the PEI‐modified beads with Mn = 60,000 showed better results than those modified with PEIs with Mn's of 1200 and 423. The presence of sparse and long chains of PEI 60,000 onto the matrix, by reason of their highest accessibility toward the large protein, may have resulted in a better disposition of functional groups, whereas more short chains in the other PEIs (Mn's = 1200 and 423) used as ligands would not have. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2010
Coimmobilization of malic enzyme and alanine dehydrogenase on organic–inorganic hybrid gel fibers and the production of L‐alanine from malic acid using the fibers with coenzyme regeneration
Authors: Nakane Koji , Suye Shin‐Ichiro , Ueno Tomoya , Ohno Yoko , Ishikawa Tomoko , Ogihara Takashi , Ogata Nobuo
Published: January 2010

Malic enzyme (EC 1.1.1.39) and alanine dehydrogenase (EC 1.4.1.1) were entrap‐immobilized on hybrid gel fibers of cellulose acetate (CA) and zirconium (Zr) alkoxide by air‐gap wet spinning. The production of L‐alanine from malic acid with coenzyme regeneration was examined with the enzymes immobilized on the fibers. The productivity of L‐alanine of the immobilized enzymes decreased to approximately one‐fifth of that of free enzymes, but the CA–Zr‐fiber‐immobilized enzymes retained a high level of productivity after repeated use. Reduced form of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NADH) recycling also occurred effectively for the enzymes immobilized on the fiber. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2010
Preparation and properties of polylactide–silica nanocomposites
Authors: Zhu Aiping , Diao Huaxin , Rong Qianping , Cai Auyun
Published: January 2010

Poly(lactic acid) (PLA)/SiO2 nanocomposites were prepared via melt mixing with a Haake mixing method. To improve the dispersion of nanoparticles and endow compatibility between the polymer matrix and nanosilica, SiO2 was surface‐modified with oleic acid (OA). The interfacial adhesion of the PLA nanocomposites was characterized by field‐emission scanning electron microscopy. The storage modulus and glass‐transition temperature values of the prepared nanocomposites were measured by dynamic mechanical thermal analysis. The linear and nonlinear dynamic rheological properties of the PLA nanocomposites were measured with a parallel‐plate rheometer. The effects of the filling content on the dispersability of the OA–SiO2 nanoparticles in the PLA matrix, the interface adhesion, the thermomechanical properties, the rheological properties, and the mechanical properties were investigated. Moreover, the proper representation of the oscillatory viscometry results provided an alternative sensitive method to detect whether aggregation formed in the polymeric nanocomposites. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2010
Kinetic analysis of the imidization of poly(styrene‐co‐maleic anhydride) with aniline in the melt
Authors: Liu He‐Yang , Yao Zhen , Cao Kun , Li Bo‐Geng
Published: February 2010

On the basis of the competitive reactions of intermediate poly(styrene‐co‐N‐phenyl maleamic acid) (SNPMA) to produce either poly(styrene‐co‐maleic anhydride) (SMA) or poly(styrene‐co‐N‐phenyl maleimide) (SNPMI), the imidization kinetics of SMA with aniline in the molten state were investigated by a novel approach. The volatiles emitted during the reaction of SNPMA were monitored online with both thermogravimetric analysis and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) integrated technology. The experimental results directly and definitely indicate that the amidization reaction from SMA to SNPMA in the melt was reversible. Moreover, the kinetic parameters of the competitive reactions of SNPMA in the melt to produce either SMA or SNPMI were determined by FTIR analysis and then compared with those parameters in solution that were obtained in our previous study. It was also implied that the forward ring‐opening reaction of SMA in the melt was nearly instantaneous and that the rates of the competitive reactions of SNPMA to produce either SMA or SNPMI were crucial for the total imidization of SMA. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2010
Mechanical and antibacterial properties of modified nano‐ZnO/high‐density polyethylene composite films with a low doped content of nano‐ZnO
Authors: Li Shu‐Cai , Li Ya‐Na
Published: February 2010

Nano‐ZnO/high‐density polyethylene (HDPE) composite films were prepared via melt blending and a hot compression‐molding process. The properties, including ultraviolet absorption, mechanical and antibacterial properties of the films, and plasticizing behavior of the composites, were investigated. The results show that the absorbance in the ultraviolet region of the HDPE films was enhanced after the addition of modified nano‐ZnO to the HDPE matrix. Also, we found that improvement in the HDPE films of the tensile strength and elongation at break was achieved by the incorporation of modified ZnO nanoparticles up to 0.5 wt % in contrast with the original nano‐ZnO/HDPE composite films. Antibacterial testing was carried out via plate counting, and the results indicate that the HDPE films doped with modified ZnO nanoparticles showed favorable antibacterial activity, especially for Staphylococcus aureus. However, the low doped content of modified nano‐ZnO in the HDPE matrix made the balance torque of the composites increase slightly. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2010
Graft polymerization of acrylic acid onto polypropylene monofilament by RF plasma
Authors: Saxena Shalini , Ray Alok R. , Gupta Bhuvanesh
Published: January 2010

Plasma‐induced graft polymerization of acrylic acid onto polypropylene monofilament was carried out to introduce carboxyl groups on its surface. The monofilament was treated with oxygen plasma to create hydroperoxide groups and subsequent graft polymerization of acrylic acid on exposed filament was carried out. An increase in the plasma power led to higher graft levels. It was observed that the hydroperoxide build up on PP surface follows linear increase with the increase in the plasma treatment time only up to 180 s beyond which it slowed down significantly. The formation of oxygenated species was ascertained by X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and the peroxide content was measured by the 2′‐diphenylpicrylhydrazyl (DPPH) estimation. The grafting was observed to be considerably influenced by the plasma exposure time, plasma power, reaction temperature, monomer concentration and the storage temperature. A maximum in the degree of grafting was observed at 40% monomer concentration beyond which grafting tended to decrease very fast. The grafting was also found to be maximum at 50°C followed by a sharp decrease, subsequently. The storage of the exposed filament at −80°C led to the identical grafting all along the 16 days. However, the storage at 25°C showed significant reduction in the degree of grafting. The atomic force microscopy showed that surface morphology is transformed into a nonhomogeneous one after the plasma exposure, but tends to flatten out after the grafting process in the form of globular structures. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2010
Investigation on synergic activity of N‐benzylimine aminothioformamide binary accelerator system in sulfur vulcanization of natural rubber
Authors: Thomas S. P. , Ettolil M. J.
Published: February 2010

This study explored the possibility of preparing a new thio accelerator, N‐benzylimine aminothioformamide to investigate its synergic accelerator activity in three conventional binary accelerator systems, N‐cyclohexyl benzothiazyl sulfenamide, mercapto benzothiazyl disulfide, and tetramethylthiuram disulfide in the sulfur vulcanization of natural rubber. Each system was found effective in reduction of cure time as a further proof of the nucleophilic mechanism suggested in the earlier reports. The vulcanizates of the mixes of the three systems were experimented for evaluating their physicomechanical properties. Most of the properties were found better than those of the reference mixes. Crosslinks were also evaluated for correlating the properties. Based on the evaluated properties, optimum dosage of the new binary systems were derived. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2010
Enhancement of dispersion of carbon nanotube and physical properties of poly(styrene‐co‐acrylonitrile)/multiwalled carbon nanotube nanocomposite via surface initiated ATRP
Authors: Choi Won Seok , Ryu Sung Hun
Published: January 2010

Dispersion behavior of multiwalled carbon nanotube (MWCNT), rheological and mechanical properties of various MWCNT/poly(styrene‐co‐acrylonitrile) (SAN) nanocomposites were investigated. MWCNT/SAN nanocomposites were prepared by three different methods; MWCNT/SAN melt blending, MWCNT/SAN in situ atom transfer radical polymerization (ATRP) and functionalized‐MWCNT/SAN in situ ATRP. Formation of SAN onto the surface of MWCNT and the molecular weight of grafted‐SAN were confirmed by fourier transform infrared spectra, 1H‐NMR and 13C‐NMR. Crossover frequency of storage and loss modulus from rheological measurement and dynamic mechanical analysis showed that functionalized MWCNT/SAN in situ ATRP nanocomposite showed more uniform dispersion of MWCNT. Improved mechanical and electrical properties were observed for functionalized MWCNT/SAN in situ ATRP nanocomposite. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2010
Synthesis and characterization of novel hybrid polyoxazoline‐grafted multiwalled carbon nanotubes
Authors: Jeon Jong‐Hwan , Lee Seung‐Hwa , Lim Jung‐Hyurk , Kim Kyung‐Min
Published: January 2010

The novel hybrid polyoxazoline‐grafted multiwalled carbon nanotubes (POZO‐grafted MWNTs) were synthesized by the reaction of partially hydrolyzed polyoxazolines (Hydrolyzed‐POZO) and MWNTs having carboxylic acid groups (MWNT‐COOH) in the presence of DCC as a condensing agent. Hydrolyzed‐POZO (degree of hydrolysis, 20.2 mol % by 1H‐NMR) were produced from the hydrolysis of polyoxazolines in an aqueous NaOH solution at reflux for 72 h. MWNT‐COOH were prepared by acid treatment of pristine MWNTs. The composition, structure, thermal property, and surface morphology of the novel hybrid POZO‐grafted MWNTs were fully characterized by FT‐IR, Raman, 1H‐NMR, DSC, TGA, SEM, and TEM. The obtained POZO‐grafted MWNTs are well soluble in various organic solvents and water. It was observed that the glass transition temperature (Tg) of POZO‐grafted MWNTs was lower than that of Hydrolyzed‐POZO due to the absence of hydrogen bonding interactions between Hydrolyzed‐POZO itself caused by the incorporation with MWNTs. It was also found that Hydrolyzed‐POZO was homogeneously attached to the surfaces of MWNTs through the “grafting‐to” method. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2010
Tumor necrosis factor α blockade exacerbates murine psoriasis‐like disease by enhancing Th17 function and decreasing expansion of Treg cells
Authors: Ma Hak‐Ling , Napierata Lee , Stedman Nancy , Benoit Stephen , Collins Mary , Nickerson‐Nutter Cheryl , Young Deborah A.
Published: January 2010

Objective

Patients with psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis respond well to tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα) blockers in general; however, there is now mounting evidence that a small cohort of patients with rheumatoid arthritis who receive TNFα blockers develop psoriasis. This study was undertaken to explore the mechanisms underlying TNFα blockade–induced exacerbation of skin inflammation in murine psoriasis‐like skin disease.

Methods

Skin inflammation was induced in BALB/c scid/scid mice after they received CD4+CD45RBhighCD25− (naive CD4) T cells from donor mice. These mice were treated with either anti–interleukin‐12 (anti–IL‐12)/23p40 antibody or murine TNFRII‐Fc fusion protein and were examined for signs of disease, including histologic features, various cytokine levels in the serum, and cytokine or FoxP3 transcripts in the affected skin and draining lymph node (LN) cells. In a separate study, naive CD4+ T cells were differentiated into Th1 or Th17 lineages with anti‐CD3/28 magnetic beads and appropriate cytokines in the presence or absence of TNFα. Cytokine gene expression from these differentiated cells was also determined.

Results

Neutralization of TNFα exacerbated skin inflammation and markedly enhanced the expression of the proinflammatory cytokines IL‐1β, IL‐6, IL‐17, IL‐21, and IL‐22 but suppressed FoxP3 expression in the skin and reduced the number of FoxP3‐positive Treg cells in the draining LNs. TNFα also demonstrated a divergent role during priming and reactivation of naive T cells.

Conclusion

These results reveal a novel immunoregulatory role of TNFα on Th17 and Treg cells in some individuals, which may account for the exacerbation of skin inflammation in some patients who receive anti‐TNF treatments.
Adenosine A1 receptors regulate bone resorption in mice: Adenosine A1 receptor blockade or deletion increases bone density and prevents ovariectomy‐induced bone loss in adenosine A1 receptor–knockout mice
Authors: Kara Firas M. , Doty Stephen B. , Boskey Adele , Goldring Steven , Zaidi Mone , Fredholm Bertil B. , Cronstein Bruce N.
Published: January 2010

Objective

Accelerated osteoclastic bone resorption plays a central role in the pathogenesis of osteoporosis and other bone diseases. Because identifying the molecular pathways that regulate osteoclast activity provides a key to understanding the causes of these diseases and developing new treatments, we studied the effect of adenosine A1 receptor blockade or deletion on bone density.

Methods

The bone mineral density (BMD) in adenosine A1 receptor–knockout (A1R‐knockout) mice was analyzed by dual x‐ray absorptiometry (DXA) scanning, and the trabecular and cortical bone volume was determined by microfocal computed tomography (micro‐CT). The mice were ovariectomized or sham‐operated, and 5 weeks after surgery, when osteopenia had developed, several parameters were analyzed by DXA scanning and micro‐CT. A histologic examination of bones obtained from A1R‐knockout and wild‐type mice was carried out. Visualization of osteoblast function (bone formation) after tetracycline double‐labeling was performed by fluorescence microscopy.

Results

Micro‐CT analysis of bones from A1R‐knockout mice showed significantly increased bone volume. Electron microscopy of bones from A1R‐knockout mice showed the absence of ruffled borders of osteoclasts and osteoclast bone resorption. Immunohistologic analysis demonstrated that although osteoclasts were present in the A1R‐knockout mice, they were smaller and often not associated with bone. No morphologic changes in osteoblasts were observed, and bone‐labeling studies revealed no change in the bone formation rates in A1R‐knockout mice.

Conclusion

These results suggest that the adenosine A1 receptor may be a useful target in treating diseases characterized by excessive bone turnover, such as osteoporosis and prosthetic joint loosening.
Association of 25‐hydroxyvitamin D with prevalent osteoarthritis of the hip in elderly men: The osteoporotic fractures in men study
Authors: Chaganti R. K. , Parimi N. , Cawthon P. , Dam T. L. , Nevitt M. C. , Lane N. E.
Published: January 2010

Objective

To examine the cross‐sectional association of serum levels of 25‐hydroxyvitamin D, or 25(OH)D, with prevalent radiographic hip osteoarthritis (OA) in elderly men.

Methods

In a cohort of 1,104 elderly men from the Osteoporotic Fractures in Men Study, 25(OH)D serum levels were determined by mass spectrometry, followed by pelvic radiographs ∼4.6 years later. Categories of vitamin D levels were defined as follows: deficiency as ≤15 ng/ml, insufficiency as 15.1–30 ng/ml, and sufficiency as >30 ng/ml. Radiographs were assessed for severity of hip OA using a summary grade of 0–4 for individual features of hip OA. Logistic regression was used to assess associations of serum 25(OH)D levels with prevalent radiographic hip OA; covariates included age, clinic site, season at the time of blood withdrawal, self‐reported hip pain for >30 days, timed 6‐meter walk, presence of at least 1 coexisting condition, and self‐rated health status.

Results

Men with radiographic hip OA had a slower 6‐meter walking time (P < 0.0001), reported more hip pain (P = 0.0001), had a lower vitamin D level (P = 0.0002), and had a higher prevalence of vitamin D insufficiency (P = 0.002) and vitamin D deficiency (P = 0.012) compared with controls. Higher 25(OH)D levels were associated with a lower prevalence of radiographic hip OA (odds ratio [OR] 1.39 per 1 SD decrease in 25[OH]D, 95% confidence interval [95% CI] 1.11–1.74) after adjusting for age, season, and clinic site. Men with vitamin D insufficiency had an increased likelihood of prevalent radiographic hip OA (OR 2.19, 95% CI 1.21–3.97) compared with men with sufficient levels of 25(OH)D, and in men with vitamin D deficiency, there was a tendency toward an increased likelihood of radiographic hip OA (OR 1.99, 95% CI 0.83–4.74).

Conclusion

Men with vitamin D deficiencies are twice as likely to have prevalent radiographic hip OA, and therefore vitamin D therapy to augment skeletal health in the elderly is warranted.
A novel heat‐shock protein coinducer boosts stress protein Hsp70 to activate T cell regulation of inflammation in autoimmune arthritis
Authors: Wieten Lotte , van der Zee Ruurd , Spiering Rachel , Wagenaar‐Hilbers Josée , van Kooten Peter , Broere Femke , van Eden Willem
Published: January 2010

Objective

Stress proteins, such as members of the heat‐shock protein (HSP) family, are up‐regulated by cells in inflamed tissue and can be viewed functionally as “biomarkers” for the immune system to monitor inflammation. Exogenous administration of stress proteins has induced immunoregulation in various models of inflammation and has also been shown to be effective in clinical trials in humans. This study was undertaken to test the hypothesis that boosting of endogenous HSP expression can restore effective immunoregulation through T cells specific for stress proteins.

Methods

Stress protein expression was manipulated in vivo and in vitro with a food component (carvacrol), and immune recognition of stress proteins was studied.

Results

Carvacrol, a major compound in the oil of many Origanum species, had a notable capacity to coinduce cellular Hsp70 expression in vitro and, upon intragastric administration, in Peyer's patches of mice in vivo. As a consequence, carvacrol specifically promoted T cell recognition of endogenous Hsp70, as demonstrated in vitro by the activation of an Hsp70‐specific T cell hybridoma and in vivo by amplified T cell responses to Hsp70. Carvacrol administration also increased the number of CD4+CD25+FoxP3+ T cells, systemically in the spleen and locally in the joint, and almost completely suppressed proteoglycan‐induced experimental arthritis. Furthermore, protection against arthritis could be transferred with T cells isolated from carvacrol‐fed mice.

Conclusion

These findings illustrate that a food component can boost protective T cell responses to a self stress protein and down‐regulate inflammatory disease, i.e., that the immune system can respond to diet.
Golimumab, a new human anti–tumor necrosis factor α antibody, administered intravenously in patients with active rheumatoid arthritis: Forty‐eight–week efficacy and safety results of a phase III randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled study
Authors: Kremer Joel , Ritchlin Christopher , Mendelsohn Alan , Baker Daniel , Kim Lilianne , Xu Zhenhua , Han John , Taylor Peter
Published: January 2010

Objective

To assess the efficacy and safety of intravenous administration of golimumab in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

Methods

Adult patients with RA in whom disease activity was persistent despite treatment with methotrexate (MTX) at a dosage of 15–25 mg/week for ≥4 weeks were randomized to receive intravenous infusions of placebo plus MTX or intravenous infusions of golimumab at a dose of 2 mg/kg or 4 mg/kg, with or without MTX, every 12 weeks through week 48. Patients with <20% improvement in the swollen and tender joint counts could enter early escape and receive additional active treatment (week 16) or could have their dose regimen adjusted (week 24). The primary end point was the proportion of patients achieving a 50% response according to the American College of Rheumatology improvement criteria (ACR50) at week 14.

Results

The primary study end point was not met (at week 14, an ACR50 response was observed in 21% of the patients treated with golimumab plus MTX compared with 13% of the patients treated with placebo plus MTX [P = 0.051]). By week 24, significantly more patients treated with golimumab plus MTX had achieved an ACR50 response. Differences in the proportion of patients achieving an ACR50 response between the group receiving golimumab monotherapy and the group receiving placebo plus MTX were not significant at either week 14 (16% versus 13%) or week 24 (10% versus 9%). At week 48, the proportions of patients achieving ACR20 and ACR50 responses were highest among those who had received golimumab 4 mg/kg plus MTX (70% and 48%, respectively). Concomitant treatment with MTX was associated with a lower incidence of antibodies to golimumab. The most commonly reported adverse events through week 48 were infections (48% of patients treated with golimumab with or without MTX and 41% of patients receiving placebo plus MTX).

Conclusion

The primary end point was not met. However, intravenously administered golimumab plus MTX appears to have benefit in the longer‐term reduction of RA signs/symptoms in MTX‐resistant patients, with no unexpected safety concerns.
Failure of intravenous immunoglobulin to prevent congenital heart block: Findings of a multicenter, prospective, observational study
Authors: Pisoni C. N. , Brucato A. , Ruffatti A. , Espinosa G. , Cervera R. , Belmonte‐Serrano M. , Sánchez‐Román J. , García‐Hernández F. G. , Tincani A. , Bertero M. T. , Doria A. , Hughes G. R. V. , Khamashta M. A.
Published: January 2010

Objective

Congenital heart block (CHB) is presumed to be caused by transplacental passage of maternal immunoglobulin against Ro and La ribonucleoproteins. The recurrence rate in subsequent pregnancies following the birth of a child with CHB is ∼19%. The purpose of this study was to determine whether intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) therapy could prevent the development of CHB in the fetuses of high‐risk pregnant women.

Methods

A total of 24 pregnancies in 22 women who had a previous pregnancy in which CHB developed, were over the age of 18 years, were <12 weeks pregnant, and had anti‐Ro, anti‐La, or both antibodies were monitored in this multicenter, prospective, observational study. Fifteen patients received infusions of IVIG. The 9 pregnancies in the remaining 7 patients served as controls. IVIG was administered at a dose of 400 mg/kg at weeks 12, 15, 18, 21, and 24 of pregnancy. Echocardiograms were performed at least every 3 weeks from week 15 to week 30 of gestation. Electrocardiograms were obtained at birth. The outcome measure was the development of third‐degree CHB detected by fetal echocardiogram.

Results

CHB developed in 3 babies among the 15 pregnancies in the treatment group (20%) and in 1 baby among the 9 pregnancies in the control group (11%). CHB was detected at weeks 18, 23, and 26, respectively, in the 3 babies in the treated group and at week 19 in the baby in the control group. Three of the affected pregnancies ended in termination; 2 for reasons related to the fetal disease and 1 for reasons related to both maternal (severe pulmonary hypertension) and fetal disease (at 21 weeks of gestation).

Conclusion

IVIG at the dose and frequency used in this study was not effective as prophylactic therapy for CHB in high‐risk mothers.