bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Practical Benefits Analysis of Travel Time Reliability from Automated Detection
Authors: Rafferty Peter
Published: December 2009

Resources for roadway infrastructure capacity expansion remain scarce, competition for finances is ubiquitous, and the emphasis continues to shift to operations, management, and efficiency. These conditions point directly to economic benefit–cost analysis, yet economic appraisal of any sort continues to make only meager inroads into institutional decision making. Barriers to widespread practical application include a lack of understanding and inconsistent application. The concept and measure of travel time reliability is a quintessential example of those two barriers. This paper clarifies some of these issues. First is an exploration of how travel time reliability is measured and how it is valued for use in economic analysis. This has become increasingly prominent in just the past 10 years. One remarkable example from a ramp meter study is highlighted. To illustrate the issues further, this discussion is followed by an assessment of 15-min automated detector data during weekday peak periods over 3 years on a section of the Beltline freeway in Madison, Wisconsin. The assessment demonstrates the measure of reliability used does matter and reinforces the need for consistency in practice and for consistency in estimates of the value of reliability. Of those measures in use, this paper recommends standardizing the difference between 90th percentile and 50th percentile (median) travel time, pending further investigation into whether it is a particularly efficient measure. Last, the paper concludes with a suggestion for how to put a value on reliability in the absence of sufficient disaggregate data.
Effects of Transportation Accessibility on Residential Property Values
Authors: Martínez L. Miguel , Viegas José Manuel
Published: December 2009

The aim of this paper is to examine the relationship between the availability of transportation infrastructure and services and the pattern of house prices in an urban area and to assess whether public investment in transportation can modify residential property values. This study was developed for the Lisbon, Portugal, metropolitan area (LMA) as part of a broader study that intends to develop new value-capture financing schemes for public transportation in the LMA. The paper focuses on three central municipalities in Portugal (Amadora, Lisbon, and Odivelas), where these effects could be more easily measured because of the existence of a significant variability of public transportation services. The paper tries to determine, with different spatial hedonic pricing models, the extent to which access to transportation infrastructure currently is capitalized into house prices and isolates the influence of three different transportation infrastructures: metro, rail, and road. The results suggest that the proximity to one or two metro lines leads to significant property value changes. Results further indicate that the classic hedonic price model (ordinary least-squares estimation) leads to similar coefficient values of the local accessibility dummy variables compared with the spatial lag model and thus provides a steady basis to forecast the property value changes derived from transportation investment for the study area in the absence of a significant property value database.
Web-based Food Behaviour Questionnaire: Validation with Grades Six to Eight Students
Authors: Hanning Rhona M. , Royall Dawna , Toews Jenn E. , Blashill Lindsay , Wegener Jessica , Driezen Pete
Published: December 2009

Purpose: The web-based Food Behaviour Questionnaire (FBQ) includes a 24-hour diet recall, a food frequency questionnaire, and questions addressing knowledge, attitudes, intentions, and food-related behaviours. The survey has been revised since it was developed and initially validated. The current study was designed to obtain qualitative feedback and to validate the FBQ diet recall.

Methods: “Think aloud” techniques were used in cognitive interviews with dietitian experts (n=11) and grade six students (n=21).Multi-ethnic students (n=201) in grades six to eight at urban southern Ontario schools completed the FBQ and, subsequently, one-on-one diet recall interviews with trained dietitians. Food group and nutrient intakes were compared.

Results: Users provided positive feedback on the FBQ. Suggestions included adding more foods, more photos for portion estimation, and online student feedback. Energy and nutrient intakes were positively correlated between FBQ and dietitian interviews, overall and by gender and grade (all p<0.001). Intraclass correlation coefficients were ≥0.5 for energy and macronutrients, although the web-based survey underestimated energy (-10.5%) and carbohydrate (-15.6%) intakes (p<0.05). Under-estimation of rice and pasta portions on the web accounted for 50% of this discrepancy.

Conclusions: The FBQ is valid, relative to 24-hour recall interviews, for dietary assessment in diverse populations of Ontario children in grades six to eight.
Mechanistic Investigation of Oxidation of Diclofenac Sodium by Diperiodatocuprate(Iii) Complex in Aqueous Alkaline Medium
Authors: Patil Roopa H. , Naik Praveen N. , Nandibewoor Sharanappa T.
Published: December 2009

The kinetics of oxidation of diclofenac sodium (DFS) by diperiodatocuprate(III) (DPC) in aqueous alkaline medium at a constant ionic strength of 0.60 mol dm−3 have been studied spectrophotometrically. The reaction showed first-order kinetics in [DPC] and less than unit order with respect to [DFS] and [alkali] and negative fractional order in [periodate]. The reaction between (DFS) and (DPC) in alkaline medium exhibits 1:2 stoichiometry (DFS): (DPC). The ionic strength and dielectric constant did not affect the rate of reaction. The oxidation products were identified by LC-ESI-MS and IR spectral studies. The reaction constants involved in the different steps of the mechanism were calculated. The activation parameters with respect to the slow step of the mechanism were computed and discussed, and thermodynamic quantities were also determined.
Studies on the Kinetics and Mechanism of Thermal Decomposition of Znal-Hydrotalcite-Like Compounds
Authors: Xie Xianmei , Hu Qiuxia , Shi Xinzhen , Wu Zhenghuang
Published: December 2009

The thermal decomposition of ZnAl-hydrotalcite-like compounds (ZnAl-HTLcs) was studied using the TG-DTG method. It was shown there was a single mass loss stage of the thermolysis. The kinetics parameters of thermolysis were calculated by the Freeman – Carroll method, and the mechanism function was studied by the Šativa – Šestăk and Achar methods. The value of the apparent activation energy E was ca 180 kJ mol−1, the frequency factor ln( A/s−1) was ca 30 and that reaction order n was equal to about 1.1. The thermal decomposition mechanism function indicated a chemical mechanism and the corresponding function was G(α) = (1 - α)−1 - 1.
Studies on P-Nitrophenyl Picolinate Cleavage by Unsymmetrical Bis-Schiff Base Complexes with Aza-Crown Ether or Morpholino Pendants
Authors: Tang Ying , Li Jian-Zhang , Zhang Jin
Published: December 2009

The unsymmetrical bis-Schiff base manganese(III) and cobalt(II) complexes with either benzo-10-aza-crown ether pendants (MnL1Cl, CoL1, CoL2) or a morpholino pendant (MnL3Cl) have been demonstrated as models for hydrolase enzymes by studying the kinetics of their hydrolysis reactions with p-nitrophenyl picolinate (PNPP). A kinetic model of PNPP cleavage catalysed by these complexes is proposed. The effects of complex structures and reaction temperature on the rate of PNPP hydrolysis have been examined. All four complexes exhibit high catalytic activity and the rate increases with pH. The complexes of ligands containing a crown ether group exhibit higher catalytic activities than the non-crown analogue; the catalytic activity of the complexes follows the order Mn(III) > Co(II) (MnL1Cl > CoL1) with the same ligands.
Equiprobability, Entropy, Gamma Distributions and Other Geometrical Questions in Multi-Agent Systems
Authors: López-Ruiz Ricardo , Sañudo Jaime , Calbet Xavier
Published: December 2009

A set of many identical interacting agents obeying a global additive constraint is considered. Under the hypothesis of equiprobability in the high-dimensional volume delimited in phase space by the constraint, the statistical behavior of a generic agent over the ensemble is worked out. The asymptotic distribution of that statistical behavior is derived from geometrical arguments. This distribution is related with the Gamma distributions found in several multi-agent economy models. The parallelism with all these systems is established. Also, as a collateral result, a formula for the volume of high-dimensional symmetrical bodies is proposed.
Mapping Environmental Dimensions of Dengue Fever Transmission Risk in the Aburrá Valley, Colombia
Authors: Arboleda Sair , Jaramillo-O. Nicolas , Peterson A. Townsend
Published: December 2009

Dengue fever (DF) is endemic in Medellín, the second largest Colombian city, and surrounding municipalities. We used DF case and satellite environmental data to investigate conditions associated with suitable areas for DF occurrence in 2008 in three municipalities (Bello, Medellín and Itagüí). We develop spatially stratified tests of ecological niche models, and found generally good predictive ability, with all model tests yielding results significantly better than random expectations. We concluded that Bello and Medellín present ecological conditions somewhat different from, and more suitable for DF than, those of Itagüí. We suggest that areas predicted by our models as suitable for DF could be considered as at-risk, and could be used to guide campaigns for DF prevention in these municipalities.
Enzymatic Reactions in Near Critical CO2: The Effect of Pressure on Phenol Removal by Tyrosinase
Authors: Amaral Priscilla , Garcia Daniela , Cardoso Miguel , Mendes Marisa , Coelho Maria Alice , Pessoa Fernando
Published: December 2009

The use of enzymes in supercritical CO2 (SCCO2) has received extensive attention in recent years. Biocatalysts have the advantage of substrate specificity and SCCO2 offers several advantages over liquid solvents. This work deals with the utilization of SCCO2 as a medium for the enzymatic removal of phenol from aqueous solutions using tyrosinase. Since the presence of oxygen is crucial for the enzyme-catalyzed oxidation, the substantial solvating power of SCCO2 makes it a promising medium for such reactions. The conversion of phenol was higher at 10 MPa. Under near critical conditions (7 MPa, 35 ºC), the addition of air at 5 × 105 Pa of pressure improved phenol removal.
Synthesis of 3-[(Z)-5-Amino-1, 3, 3-trimethyl cyclohexyl methylimino]-1, 3-dihydroindol-2-one as a novel Schiff base
Authors: K. Ramakrishna Reddy , N. Mahendra K.
Published: December 2009

Isatin (1H-indole-2,3-dione) was first obtained by Erdman and Laurent in 1841 as a product from the oxidation of indigo by nitric and chromic acids [1].[...]
Intercalated Nanocomposites Based on High-Temperature Superconducting Ceramics and Their Properties
Authors: Tonoyan Anahit , Schiсk Christoph , Davtyan Sevan
Published: December 2009

High temperature superconducting (SC) nanocomposites based on SC ceramics and various polymeric binders were prepared. Regardless of the size of the ceramics’ grains, the increase of their amount leads to an increase of resistance to rupture and modulus and a decrease in limiting deformation, whereas an increase in the average ceramic grain size worsens resistance properties. The SC, thermo-chemical, mechanical and dynamic-mechanical properties of the samples were investigated. Superconducting properties of the polymer ceramic nanocomposites are explained by intercalation of macromolecule fragments into the interstitial layer of the ceramics’ grains. This phenomenon leads to a change in the morphological structure of the superconducting nanocomposites.
Synthesis and Phytotoxic Activity of New Pyridones Derived from 4-Hydroxy-6-Methylpyridin-2(1H)-one
Authors: Jacinto Demuner Antonio , Moreira Valente Vania Maria , Almeida Barbosa Luiz Cláudio , Rathi Akshat , Donohoe Timothy J. , Thompson Amber L.
Published: December 2009

Commercial dehydroacetic acid was converted into 4-hydroxy-6-methylpyridin-2(1H)-one (3), which was then condensed with several aliphatic aldehydes to produce seven new title compounds in variable yields (35–92%). Reaction of 3 with α,β-unsaturated aldehydes resulted in the formation of condensed pyran derivatives 4g' and 4h'. A mechanism is proposed to explain the formation of such compounds. The effects of all methylpyridin-2(1H)-one derivatives on the development of the dicotyledonous species Ipomoea grandifolia and Cucumis sativus and the monocotyledonous species Sorghum bicolor were evaluated. At the dose of 6.7 × 10-8 mol a.i./g substrate the compounds showed some phytotoxic selectivity, being more active against the dicotyledonous species. These compounds can be used as lead structures for the development of more active phytotoxic products.
Hepatoprotective Potential of Extracts from Seeds of Areca catechu and Nutgalls of Quercus infectoria
Authors: Pithayanukul Pimolpan , Nithitanakool Saruth , Bavovada Rapepol
Published: December 2009

Aqueous extracts from seeds of Areca catechu L. (Arecaceae) (AC) and nutgalls of Quercus infectoria Oliv. (Fagaceae) (QI) were investigated for their hepatoprotective potential by studying their antioxidant capacity using four different methods, by determining their in vitro anti−inflammatory activity against 5-lipoxygenase, and by evaluating their hepatoprotective potential against liver injury induced by carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) in rats. AC and QI extracts exhibited potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. Treatment of rats with AC and QI extracts reversed oxidative damage in hepatic tissues induced by CCl4. It is suggested that extracts rich in either condensed or hydrolysable tannins and known for their potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities, may potentially confer protection against oxidative stress−induced liver injury. These data should contribute to evidence-based traditional medicines for anti-inflammatory and hepatoprotective effects of both extracts.
Bovine Colostrum Supplementation During Running Training Increases Intestinal Permeability
Authors: Buckley Jonathan D. , Butler Ross N. , Southcott Emma , Brinkworth Grant D.
Published: December 2009

Endurance exercise training can increase intestinal permeability which may contribute to the development of gastrointestinal symptoms in some athletes. Bovine colostrum (BC) supplementation reduces intestinal permeability induced by non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. This study aimed to determine whether BC could also reduce intestinal permeability induced by endurance exercise. Thirty healthy adult males (25.0 ± 4.7 yr; mean ± SD) completed eight weeks of running three times per week for 45 minutes at their lactate threshold while consuming 60 g/day of BC, whey protein (WP) or control (CON). Intestinal permeability was assessed at baseline and after eight weeks by measuring the ratio of urinary lactulose (L) and rhamnose (R) excretion. After eight weeks the L/R ratio increased significantly more in volunteers consuming BC (251 ± 140%) compared with WP (21 ± 35%, P < 0.05) and CON (−7 ± 13%, P < 0.02). The increase in intestinal permeability with BC may have been due to BC inducing greater leakiness of tight junctions between enterocytes or by increasing macromolecular transport as it does in neonatal gut. Further research should investigate the potential for BC to increase intestinal macromolecular transport in adults.
Coenzyme Q10 and Neurological Diseases
Authors: Mancuso Michelangelo , Orsucci Daniele , Calsolaro Valeria , Choub Anna , Siciliano Gabriele
Published: December 2009

Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10, or ubiquinone) is a small electron carrier of the mitochondrial respiratory chain with antioxidant properties. CoQ10 supplementation has been widely used for mitochondrial disorders. The rationale for using CoQ10 is very powerful when this compound is primary decreased because of defective synthesis. Primary CoQ10 deficiency is a treatable condition, so heightened “clinical awareness” about this diagnosis is essential. CoQ10 and its analogue, idebenone, have also been widely used in the treatment of other neurodegenerative disorders. These compounds could potentially play a therapeutic role in Parkinson’s disease, Huntington’s disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, Friedreich’s ataxia, and other conditions which have been linked to mitochondrial dysfunction. This article reviews the physiological roles of CoQ10, as well as the rationale and the role in clinical practice of CoQ10 supplementation in different neurological diseases, from primary CoQ10 deficiency to neurodegenerative disorders.
Identification of Cutpoints for Acceptable Health Status and Important Improvement in Patient-Reported Outcomes, in Rheumatoid Arthritis, Psoriatic Arthritis, and Ankylosing Spondylitis
Authors: KVAMME MARIA KNOPH , KRISTIANSEN IVAR SØNBØ , LIE ELISABETH , KVIEN TORE KRISTIAN
Published: December 2009

Objective.

To identify cutpoints reflecting Patient Acceptable Symptom State (PASS) and Minimal Clinically Important Improvement (MCII) in patient-reported multi-attribute health status classification systems and health status measurements among patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), ankylosing spondylitis (AS), and psoriatic arthritis (PsA).

Methods.

We identified patients with RA, AS, and PsA from the Norwegian disease-modifying antirheumatic drug (DMARD) register (NOR-DMARD). The patients (n = 4225) had started with DMARD and responded to the PASS and MCII anchoring questions at the 3-month followup examination. Receiver operating characteristics (ROC) curves with 80% specificity and the 75th percentile approach were used to identify PASS and MCII cutpoints in the EuroQol-5 Dimensions (EQ-5D) and the Short-Form-6 Dimensions (SF-6D) indexes, but also in other patient-reported outcomes (joint pain and patient global visual analog scale and Modified Health Assessment Questionnaire).

Results.

The PASS cutpoints estimated with 80% specificity were around 0.70 in EQ-5D in all diseases and around 0.65 in SF-6D. The cutpoints were around 0.65 and 0.60, respectively, when the 75th percentile approach was used. The MCII cutpoints assessed by 80% specificity varied from 0.10 to 0.19 in EQ-5D and from 0.07 to 0.10 in SF-6D.

Conclusion.

The cutpoints for PASS in EQ-5D and SF-6D indicate that PASS corresponds to a health-related quality of life that is far from perfect health. Somewhat different cutpoints were identified for both PASS and MCII with 80% specificity versus the 75th percentile method.
Serum BLC/CXCL13 Concentrations and Renal Expression of CXCL13/CXCR5 in Patients with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus and Lupus Nephritis
Authors: LEE HUI-TING , SHIAO YU-MING , WU TSAI-HUNG , CHEN WEI-SHENG , HSU YUNG-HSIANG , TSAI SHIH-FENG , TSAI CHANG-YOUH
Published: December 2009

Objective.

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a prototype of systemic autoimmune disease in which cytokines such as B lymphocyte chemoattractant (BLC, or CXC motif ligand 13, CXCL13) may play important roles in pathogenesis. We investigated the implications of CXCL13 in SLE and lupus nephritis.

Methods.

Serum samples from 425 patients with SLE and 106 healthy control individuals were analyzed for the concentration of CXCL13 by ELISA. Tissue expression of CXCL13 and its corresponding receptor CXCR5 were observed in lupus kidney. The CXCR5-bearing B cells in SLE patients were analyzed by flow cytometry.

Results.

Serum levels of CXCL13 were higher in SLE patients compared to controls. SLE patients with lupus nephritis or positive anti-dsDNA antibodies had significantly higher serum CXCL13 levels. The peripheral venous blood B cells that bear CXCR5 were more abundant in SLE patients as detected by flow cytometry. CXCR5 and CXCL13 were highly expressed in the renal cortex from patients with lupus nephritis.

Conclusions.

Our results suggest that BLC/CXCL13 as well as its corresponding receptor, CXCR5, may play important roles in the pathogenesis of SLE and in lupus nephritis.
Falls Self-Efficacy among Adults with Multiple Sclerosis: A Phenomenological Study
Authors: Peterson Elizabeth W. , Kielhofner Gary , Tham Kerstin , von Koch Lena
Published: December 2009

This phenomenological study explored and described the lived experience of falls self-efficacy (i.e., perceived self-efficacy in avoiding a fall during basic activities of daily living) among six individuals with multiple sclerosis and its relationship to their overall volition and occupational lives. Participants were interviewed three times over a 3-month period. All interviews were analyzed using the Empirical, Phenomenological, Psychological method. One main theme (managing fall risk as a means of supporting activity) and six subthemes were reflected in participants' lived experiences: (1) understanding personal multiple sclerosis symptoms, abilities, and fall risk; (2) accepting one's changed capacity; (3) focusing on what you can control; (4) ongoing learning by doing; (5) vigilance while doing; and (6) taking personal responsibility to reduce fall risk. The findings show how falls self-efficacy operates as part of a larger volitional process and can be used to inform the development of fall prevention programs for individuals living with multiple sclerosis.
Matrix metalloproteinase‐3 and intracranial arterial dolichoectasia
Authors: Pico Fernando , Jacob Marie‐Paule , Labreuche Julien , Soufir Nadem , Touboul Pierre‐Jean , Benessiano Joëlle , Cambien François , Grandchamp Bernard , Michel Jean‐Baptiste , Amarenco Pierre
Published: November 2009

Objective

Intracranial arterial dolichoectasia (IADE), also called dilatative arteriopathy of the brain, is defined as an increase in length and diameter of intracranial arteries. Abdominal aortic aneurysm and ectasia of coronary arteries have been reported in association with IADE. In both conditions, a dysfunction of matrix metalloproteinases (MMP)‐2, ‐3, and ‐9 have been found. Our aim was to investigate these MMP pathways in stroke patients with IADE.

Methods

Five hundred ten Caucasians patients with brain infarction were consecutively recruited at 12 centers. The diagnosis of IADE was made by consensus between 2 neurologists based on magnetic resonance imaging scans. Determination of MMP‐2, ‐3, and ‐9 plasma levels was centralized in 1 laboratory. Because we found a threshold effect of MMP‐3 plasma levels with the risk of IADE, determination of the MMP‐3 5A/6A polymorphism was carried out.

Results

IADE was identified in 12% of stroke patients. There was no association of IADE with mean MMP‐2, ‐3, and ‐9 plasma levels. After categorization of MMP plasma levels into tertiles, we found a higher risk of IADE with the lowest MMP‐3 tertile (adjusted odds ratio [OR], 2.48; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.17–5.23). In genotype analysis, there was a significant additive effect of the 5A allele on the risk of IADE, with an adjusted OR of 1.62 (95% CI, 1.03–2.55).

Interpretation

In this cohort of stroke patients of Caucasian ancestry, IADE was associated with low MMP‐3 plasma levels and with the 5A/6A polymorphism of the promoter region of MMP‐3. These results suggest that MMP‐3 may play a role in IADE. ANN NEUROL 2010;67:508–515
Blood–brain barrier breakdown and repair by Src after thrombin‐induced injury
Authors: Liu Da‐Zhi , Ander Bradley P. , Xu Huichun , Shen Yan , Kaur Pali , Deng Wenbin , Sharp Frank R.
Published: November 2009

Objective

Thrombin mediates the life‐threatening cerebral edema that occurs after intracerebral hemorrhage. Therefore, we examined the mechanisms of thrombin‐induced injury to the blood–brain barrier (BBB) and subsequent mechanisms of BBB repair.

Methods

Intracerebroventricular injection of thrombin (20U) was used to model intraventricular hemorrhage in adult rats.

Results

Thrombin reduced brain microvascular endothelial cell (BMVEC) and perivascular astrocyte immunoreactivity—indicating either cell injury or death—and functionally disrupted the BBB as measured by increased water content and extravasation of sodium fluorescein and Evans blue dyes 24 hours later. Administration of nonspecific Src family kinase inhibitor (PP2) immediately after thrombin injections blocked brain edema and BBB disruption. At 7 to 14 days after thrombin injections, newborn endothelial cells and astrocytes were observed around cerebral vessels at the time when BBB permeability and cerebral water content resolved. Delayed administration of PP2 on days 2 through 6 after thrombin injections prevented resolution of the edema and abnormal BBB permeability.

Interpretation

Thrombin, via its protease‐activated receptors, is postulated to activate Src kinase phosphorylation of molecules that acutely injure the BBB and produce edema. Thus, acute administration of Src antagonists blocks edema. In contrast, Src blockade for 2 to 6 days after thrombin injections is postulated to prevent resolution of edema and abnormal BBB permeability in part because Src kinase proto‐oncogene members stimulate proliferation of newborn BMVECs and perivascular astrocytes in the neurovascular niche that repair the damaged BBB. Thus, Src kinases not only mediate acute BBB injury but also mediate chronic BBB repair after thrombin‐induced injury. ANN NEUROL 2010;67:526–533
Dysferlin overexpression in skeletal muscle produces a progressive myopathy
Authors: Glover Louise E. , Newton Kimberly , Krishnan Gomathi , Bronson Roderick , Boyle Alexandra , Krivickas Lisa S. , Brown Robert H.
Published: November 2009

Objective

The dose–response effects of dysferlin transgenesis were analyzed to determine if the dysferlin‐deficient myopathies are good candidates for gene replacement therapy.

Methods

We have generated 3 lines of transgenic mice, expressing low, mid, and high levels of full‐length human dysferlin from a muscle‐specific promoter. Transgenic skeletal muscle was analyzed and scored for morphological and functional deficits.

Results

Overexpression of dysferlin in mice resulted in a striking phenotype of kyphosis, irregular gait, and reduced muscle mass and strength. Moreover, protein dosage correlated with phenotype severity. In contrast to dysferlin‐null skeletal muscle, no evidence of sarcolemmal impairment was revealed. Rather, increased levels of Ca2+‐regulated, dysferlin‐binding proteins and endoplasmic reticulum stress chaperone proteins were observed in muscle lysates from transgenic mice as compared with controls.

Interpretation

Expression levels of dysferlin are important for appropriate function without deleterious or cytotoxic effects. As a corollary, we propose that future endeavors in gene replacement for correction of dysferlinopathy should be tailored to take account of this. ANN NEUROL 2010;67:384–393
Organotin catalysts grafted onto cross‐linked polystyrene supports through polar spacers
Authors: Pinoie Vanja , Biesemans Monique , Willem Rudolph
Published: November 2009

The present study investigates the suitability of a HypoGel support bearing oligomeric poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) chains to act as an insoluble carrier for grafted organotin catalysts. Through the introduction of polar spacers, an improved swelling and site accessibility in the polar media typically involved in transesterification reactions are targeted. Advanced structural investigation shows that quantitative conversion into the targeted HypoGel‐supported organotin trichloride is hampered by the existence of intra‐ and/or intermolecular donor‐acceptor O→Sn interactions caused by the presence of donor moieties in the PEG‐linker. Support is provided to the proposal that the latter interactions are at the origin of the moderate catalytic performance displayed by these HypoGel‐supported catalysts, achieving only 41% conversion after 2 hours in the transesterification of ethyl acetate and n‐octanol. In contrast with similar organotin catalysts supported by an alkyl spacer, the HypoGel‐supported materials appear to be poorly recyclable and display poor leaching resistance. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
MCM‐41‐supported mercapto palladium(0) complex: an efficient and recyclable catalyst for the heterogeneous Stille coupling reaction
Authors: Zhao Hong , Zheng Guomin , Hao Wenyan , Cai Mingzhong
Published: November 2009

The Stille cross‐coupling reaction of organostannanes with aryl halides was achieved in the presence of a catalytic amount of MCM‐41‐supported mercapto palladium(0) complex (1 mol%) in DMFH2O (9:1) under air atmosphere in good to high yields. This MCM‐41‐supported palladium catalyst can be reused at least 10 times without any decrease in activity. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Can patellar tape reduce the patellar malalignment and pain associated with patellofemoral osteoarthritis?
Authors: Crossley Kay M. , Marino Giovanni P. , Macilquham Michael D. , Schache Anthony G. , Hinman Rana S.
Published: November 2009

Objective

Patellar taping is a conservative treatment that may reduce patellar malalignment and pain in people with patellofemoral joint osteoarthritis (OA). This study aimed to compare patellar alignment in people with and without patellofemoral joint OA and to evaluate immediate effects of patellar taping on patellar alignment and pain in people with patellofemoral joint OA.

Methods

Patellar malalignment was measured from magnetic resonance imaging (MRI; 15° knee flexion) in 28 individuals (14 with patellofemoral joint OA and 14 asymptomatic, age‐matched controls). In the patellofemoral joint OA group, MRI data were collected in 2 randomly allocated conditions (tape and no tape). Patellar alignment indices were measured from deidentified axial scans by 1 examiner. Pain during squatting was recorded in the 2 conditions (tape and no tape).

Results

People with patellofemoral joint OA exhibited greater lateral displacement and bisect offset compared with controls (P < 0.001). Lateral patellar tilt angle did not differ between groups. In the patellofemoral joint OA group, patellar tape resulted in a significant lessening of lateral alignment, with reduced lateral displacement (P = 0.028) and increased lateral patellar tilt angle (P < 0.001). Mean pain during squatting decreased with patellar tape by 15 mm on a 100‐mm scale (P = 0.045).

Conclusion

Patellar tape may reduce malalignment and pain associated with patellofemoral joint OA.
“Should I tell my employer and coworkers I have arthritis?” A longitudinal examination of self‐disclosure in the work place
Authors: Gignac Monique A.M. , Cao Xingshan
Published: November 2009

Objective

To examine arthritis self‐disclosure at work, factors associated with disclosure, and prospective relationships of self‐disclosure and work place support with changes to work place interactions, work transitions, and work place stress.

Methods

Using a structured questionnaire, participants with osteoarthritis or inflammatory arthritis were interviewed at 4 time points, 18 months apart. At time 1, all participants (n = 490; 381 women, 109 men) were employed. Of the entire sample, 71% were retained throughout the study. Respondents were recruited using community advertising and from rheumatology and rehabilitation clinics. Self‐disclosure and perceived support from managers and coworkers was assessed, as well as demographic, illness, work‐context, and psychological variables. Generalized estimating equations modeled associations of disclosure and support on changes at work (e.g., job disruptions, work place stress).

Results

At each time point, 70.6–76.6% of participants had self‐disclosed arthritis to their manager and 85.2–88.1% had told a coworker. Intraindividual variability in disclosure was considerable. Factors associated with self‐disclosure were often inconsistent over time, with the exception of variables assessing the need to self‐disclose (e.g., activity limitations) and perceived coworker support. Self‐disclosure was not associated with changes to work. However, coworker support was related to fewer job disruptions, help with work tasks, and being less likely to reduce hours. Perceived managerial support was associated with less work place stress.

Conclusion

Greater awareness is needed about issues related to self‐disclosing arthritis at work. This study emphasizes the importance of a supportive work place, especially supportive coworkers, in decisions to discuss arthritis at work and in changes to work that might enable people to remain employed.
Modeling the need for hip and knee replacement surgery. Part 1. A two‐stage cross‐cohort approach
Authors: Judge Andy , Welton Nicky J. , Sandhu Jat , Ben‐Shlomo Yoav
Published: November 2009

Objective

To explore inequalities in the need for hip/knee replacement surgery using a 2‐stage cross‐cohort approach.

Methods

In the first stage, a small‐area population‐based survey, the Somerset and Avon Survey of Health, was used to provide a high‐quality measure of need for hip/knee replacement using the New Zealand (NZ) score. Receiver operating characteristic curve analyses were used to validate a simplified NZ score, excluding information from clinical examination. In the second stage, a nationally representative population‐based survey, the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing, was used to explore inequalities in need for hip/knee replacement using the simplified NZ score. Multilevel Poisson regression modeling was used to estimate rates of need for surgery. Exposures considered were age, sex, social class, ethnicity, obesity, Index of Multiple Deprivation 2004 deprivation quintiles, rurality, and ethnic mix of area.

Results

Rates of need for hip/knee replacement increase with age and are lower in men than in women (rate ratio [RR] 0.7, 95% confidence interval [95% CI] 0.6–0.9 for hips; RR 0.8, 95% CI 0.7–1.0 for knees). Those of lowest social class have greater need. Need was greatest for people living in more deprived areas. Individual ethnic group did not predict the need for surgery. For hip replacement, there was no rurality effect; for knee replacement, those in town and fringe areas had greater need. Obesity was a strong predictor of need for surgery (RR 2.3, 95% CI 1.9–2.8 for hips; RR 2.4, 95% CI 2.0–2.8 for knees).

Conclusion

This study provides evidence of greater variations of inequalities in need for hip/knee replacement than previous studies. Further research should explore geographic variation and produce small‐area estimates of need to inform local health planning. It is important to complement data on need with willingness to undergo surgery.
Therapeutic trajectory of hyaluronic acid versus corticosteroids in the treatment of knee osteoarthritis: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Bannuru Raveendhara R. , Natov Nikola S. , Obadan Isi E. , Price Lori L. , Schmid Christopher H. , McAlindon Timothy E.
Published: November 2009

Objective

To compare the efficacy of intraarticular hyaluronic acid with corticosteroids for knee osteoarthritis (OA).

Methods

Our data sources were Medline, EMBASE, CINAHL, BIOSIS, and the Cochrane database, as well as hand‐ searched reviews, manuscripts, and supplements. For unpublished data we used author contacts. Randomized trials that reported effects of intraarticular hyaluronic acid versus corticosteroids on knee OA were selected based on inclusion criteria. Two reviewers extracted data independently. Using a random‐effects model, we computed effect sizes for pain change from baseline at 2, 4, 8, 12, and 26 weeks. We also performed multivariate analyses accounting for within and between‐study covariance. We performed sensitivity analyses for trials that reported intent‐to‐treat (ITT) analysis and blinding, and directly compared Hyalgan with methylprednisolone.

Results

The 7 eligible trials included 606 participants. Five reported ITT analyses. At week 2 the effect size was −0.39 (95% confidence interval [95% CI], −0.65, −0.12) favoring corticosteroids; at week 4 it was −0.01 (95% CI −0.23, 0.21) suggesting equal efficacy. At week 8 the effect size was 0.22 (95% CI −0.05, 0.49) favoring hyaluronic acid, and at week 12 it was 0.35 (95% CI 0.03, 0.66) favoring hyaluronic acid. At week 26 the effect size was 0.39 (95% CI 0.18, 0.59), favoring hyaluronic acid. The multivariate analyses and sensitivity analyses generated consistent results.

Conclusion

From baseline to week 4, intraarticular corticosteroids appear to be relatively more effective for pain than intraarticular hyaluronic acid. By week 4, the 2 approaches have equal efficacy, but beyond week 8, hyaluronic acid has greater efficacy. Understanding this trend is useful to clinicians when treating knee OA.
Contribution of a haplotype in the HLA region to anti–cyclic citrullinated peptide antibody positivity in rheumatoid arthritis, independently of HLA–DRB1
Authors: Okada Yukinori , Yamada Ryo , Suzuki Akari , Kochi Yuta , Shimane Kenichi , Myouzen Keiko , Kubo Michiaki , Nakamura Yusuke , Yamamoto Kazuhiko
Published: November 2009

Objective

To examine the risk of anti–cyclic citrullinated peptide (anti‐CCP) antibody positivity in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients carrying certain haplotypes in the HLA region.

Methods

A total of 1,389 Japanese patients with RA were genotyped for 30 single‐nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the HLA region using commercial oligonucleotide arrays (from Perlegen or Affymetrix) as well as for HLA–DRB1 alleles using a sequence‐specific polymerase chain reaction method. Stepwise logistic regression was used to select from among the 30 SNPs the ones that represented a risk of anti‐CCP antibody positivity. Haplotypes of the selected SNPs were inferred using an expectation‐maximization algorithm. Associations of individual SNPs were evaluated with the Cochran‐Armitage test for trend. DRB1 alleles and haplotypes were evaluated with the chi‐square test. Heterogeneities of risks among the shared epitope (SE) and non‐SE HLA–DRB1 alleles were examined using the exact test. Haplotype associations that were independent of individual HLA–DRB1 alleles were evaluated using the likelihood ratio test.

Results

Significant associations were found for 9 SNPs (smallest P value being 2.4 × 10−8) and in 4 HLA–DRB1 alleles (smallest P value being 2.0 × 10−10 in DRB1*0405). Stepwise logistic regression selected 4 SNPs (rs9262638, rs7775228, rs4713580, and rs9277359). Among the 16 inferred haplotypes of these 4 SNPs, 6 indicated significant associations (smallest P value being 1.9 × 10−11). Risks among SE and non‐SE alleles were significantly heterogeneous (P = 0.0095 and P = 9.8 × 10−9, respectively), indicating the importance of stratification with individual DRB1 alleles rather than SE alleles. Conditional analysis of the risk associated with individual DRB1 alleles identified a risk haplotype that was independent of DRB1 (odds ratio 2.00 [95% confidence interval 1.44–2.79], P = 2.6 × 10−5).

Conclusion

Heterogeneous risks of anti‐CCP antibody positivity were confirmed among SE and non‐SE alleles in our patient population. A risk haplotype in the HLA region that is independent of HLA–DRB1 was confirmed.
Clinical appropriateness and not race predicted referral for joint arthroplasty
Authors: Ang Dennis C. , James Golda , Stump Timothy E.
Published: November 2009

Objective

To understand the reasons behind racial disparities in the use of total joint arthroplasty (TJA), we sought to examine the predictors of time to referral to orthopedic surgery for consideration of joint replacement.

Methods

In this prospective, longitudinal study of 676 primary care clinic patients with at least a moderately severe degree of hip or knee osteoarthritis (OA), we examined the effects of race, health beliefs (i.e., perceived benefits and risks) of TJA, and clinical appropriateness of TJA on referral to orthopedic surgery.

Results

The sample included 255 African Americans (38%) and 421 whites (62%); 523 patients had knee OA (78%) and 153 had hip OA (22%). Subjects were 60% male, with a mean ± SD age of 64 ± 9 years, a mean ± SD body mass index of 33.6 ± 8 kg/m2, and a mean ± SD summary Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index score of 56 ± 14, suggesting moderately severe OA. At baseline, African Americans perceived fewer benefits and greater risk from TJA than whites. There were no significant racial group differences in the proportions of cases deemed clinically appropriate for TJA. After controlling for potential confounders, clinical appropriateness (hazard ratio [HR] 1.95, 95% confidence interval [95% CI] 1.15–3.32; P = 0.01) predicted referral to orthopedic surgery. Neither race (HR 1.30, 95% CI 0.94–2.05; P = 0.1) nor health beliefs (HR 1.0, P = 0.5) were associated with referral status.

Conclusion

In this sample of primary care clinic patients, African Americans and whites were equally likely to be referred by their physicians to orthopedic surgery. Clinical appropriateness predicted future referral to orthopedic surgery, and not race or TJA‐specific health beliefs.
Polymorphisms in TBX21 and STAT4 increase the risk of systemic sclerosis: Evidence of possible gene–gene interaction and alterations in Th1/Th2 cytokines
Authors: Gourh Pravitt , Agarwal Sandeep K. , Divecha Dipal , Assassi Shervin , Paz Gene , Arora‐Singh Rajpreet K. , Reveille John D. , Shete Sanjay , Mayes Maureen D. , Arnett Frank C. , Tan Filemon K.
Published: November 2009

Objective

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is an autoimmune disease characterized by fibrosis of the skin and internal organs. Dysregulation of the immune system, including the Th1/Th2 cytokine balance, is central to the pathogenesis of SSc. This study was undertaken to investigate the hypothesis that single‐nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in TBX21 and STAT4, both of which are critical transcription factors that regulate the Th1/Th2 balance, are associated with SSc susceptibility.

Methods

We tested SNPs in TBX21 and STAT4 for association with SSc in 2 independent cohorts, the SSc Registry cohort (880 SSc cases and 507 controls) and the University of Texas SSc cohort (522 cases and 531 controls). Additional white control genotypes were obtained from public repositories. We also investigated for gene–gene interactions. Plasma cytokines and whole blood gene expression profiles were examined to determine functional effects of these SNPs.

Results

Multiple SNPs in TBX21 and STAT4 were found to be associated with SSc. In a combined analysis of 902 SSc patients and 4,745 controls, TT genotyping of the TBX21 rs11650354 variant revealed a recessive pattern for disease susceptibility (Pcorr = 1.4 × 10−15, odds ratio 3.37, 95% confidence interval 2.4–4.6). In an analysis of 1,039 SSc patients and 3,322 controls, the A allele of the STAT4 variant rs11889341 was associated with increased SSc susceptibility in a dominant pattern (Pcorr = 2.4 × 10−5, odds ratio 1.29, 95% confidence interval 1.2–1.5). Furthermore, we identified gene–gene interaction among the TBX21 and STAT4 variants, such that the STAT4 genotype increased the risk of SSc only in the TBX21 CC genotype group. SSc patients carrying the TBX21 CC genotype had higher interleukin‐6 (IL‐6) and tumor necrosis factor α levels, and those with the TT genotype had elevated IL‐2, IL‐5, IL‐4, and IL‐13 (Th2) levels, compared with controls. Whole blood expression profiles revealed dysregulation of type I interferon pathways in the CC group and T cell pathways in the TT group of the TBX21 SNP.

Conclusion

The present results, from studies of 2 independent cohorts, indicate that SNPs in TBX21 and STAT4 contribute uniquely and interactively to SSc susceptibility, leading to altered cytokine balance and immune dysregulation.
Progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy: A national estimate of frequency in systemic lupus erythematosus and other rheumatic diseases
Authors: Molloy Eamonn S. , Calabrese Leonard H.
Published: November 2009

Objective

Progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) is a rare, typically fatal, central nervous system demyelinating disease that results from reactivation of the JC virus, which generally occurs in immunosuppressed hosts. The aim of this study was to generate a national estimate of the frequency of PML among patients with rheumatic diseases.

Methods

Data were obtained from the Nationwide Inpatient Sample database. This is a 20% sample of all hospital discharges, weighted to represent the entire US inpatient population. Data were analyzed for the years 1998–2005 inclusive, representing 297,797,180 hospital discharges. Cases of PML, systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), and other rheumatic diseases were identified by diagnostic codes from the International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision, Clinical Modification.

Results

A total of 9,675 cases of PML were identified. The majority were associated with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV; 7,934 patients [82.00%]), hematologic cancers (813 patients [8.40%]), and solid cancers (274 patients [2.83%]). Among the rheumatic diseases, 43 cases of PML (0.44%) were associated with SLE, 24 (0.25%) with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), and 25 (0.26%) with other connective tissue diseases (CTDs). When patients with other potential risk factors for PML (HIV, malignancy, bone marrow or other organ transplantation) were excluded, the rates of PML per 100,000 discharges coded for SLE, RA, and other CTDs were 4, 0.4 and 2, respectively, compared with a rate of PML in the background population of 0.2/100,000 discharges.

Conclusion

This study was confined to hospitalized patients with rheumatic diseases, and it was also limited by the lack of information regarding immunosuppressive therapy. Nevertheless, the findings suggest that, although rare overall, PML occurs more commonly in SLE than in other rheumatic diseases.
Interleukin‐12 induces salivary gland dysfunction in transgenic mice, providing a new model of Sjögren's syndrome
Authors: Vosters Jelle L. , Landek‐Salgado Melissa A. , Yin Hongen , Swaim William D. , Kimura Hiroaki , Tak Paul P. , Caturegli Patrizio , Chiorini John A.
Published: November 2009

Objective

Interleukin‐12 (IL‐12) is a pleiotropic cytokine that is elevated in the affected organs of patients with Sjögren's syndrome (SS). We have previously reported that overexpression of IL‐12 in CBA mice leads to mononuclear infiltration of salivary and lacrimal glands, as well as to expansion of bronchial lymphoid tissue and decreased mucociliary clearance. Because xerostomia is one of the most important clinical features in SS patients, our main objective in the current study was to evaluate salivary gland function in IL‐12–transgenic mice. Our secondary objective was to further characterize this animal model and to determine if the changes observed in these mice are representative of those observed in patients with SS overall.

Methods

Pilocarpine‐stimulated salivary flow was used to address salivary gland function in a large group of IL‐12–transgenic mice bred onto the autoimmune‐prone SJL background. Furthermore, salivary glands were removed to assess the formation of infiltrates in the glands and gland morphology. Serum was also collected from these animals to investigate the formation of autoantibodies.

Results

Pilocarpine‐stimulated salivary flow was significantly lower in IL‐12–transgenic mice than in wild‐type controls. Salivary glands from transgenic mice exhibited an increase in both the number and the size of lymphocytic foci, versus glands from age‐matched controls. Furthermore, the acini in transgenic mice were fewer in number and larger in size compared with acini in controls. An age‐dependent increase in anti‐SSB/La antibodies was observed in IL‐12–transgenic mice and was accompanied by an increase in antinuclear antibodies.

Conclusion

Our findings indicate that a number of conditions associated with SS are exhibited by IL‐12–transgenic SJL mice and that this model might be useful in researching multiple aspects of the disease.