bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Cost‐effectiveness of increased telephone contact for patients with osteoarthritis: A randomized, controlled trial
Authors: Weinberger Morris , Tierney William M. , Cowper Patricia A. , Katz Barry P. , Booher Patricia A. 
Published: May 2012

AbstractObjective. To evaluate the cost‐effectiveness of telephone intervention for patients with osteoarthritis.Methods. Randomized, controlled trial.Results. The intervention did not significantly increase health care costs. The annual costs for a 1‐unit improvement in physical functioning and in pain, as measured by the Arthritis Impact Measurement Scales, were $70.86 and $31.00, respectively.Conclusion. Telephone contact is a potentially cost‐effective intervention in osteoarthritis.
Effects of hyaluronic acid on the release of proteoglycan from the cell matrix in rabbit chondrocyte cultures in the presence and absence of cytokines
Authors: Shimazu Atsushi , Jikko Akitoshi , Iwamoto Masahiro , Koike Tatsuya , Yan Weiqun , Okada Yasunori , Shinmei Masayuki , Nakamura Shigeo , Kato Yukio 
Published: May 2012

AbstractObjective.To investigate the effects of hyaluronic acid (HA) on the release of proteoglycan by cultured rabbit chondrocytes.Methods.Articular cartilage chondrocytes were isolated from the knee joints of New Zealand white rabbits. Proteoglycan synthesis after incubation with HA was determined by measuring35S‐sulfate incorporation. Cells incubated with HA were labeled with3H‐glucosamine and applied to a Sepharose CL‐2B column. After incubation of confluent cells with35S‐sulfate and then with HA in various concentrations in the presence or absence of cytokines, proteoglycan release from the cell matrix layer was measured.Results.HA (Mr3 × 105to 19 × 105), at 10 μg/ml to 1 mg/ml, had little effect on the incorporation of35S‐sulfate or3H‐glucosamine into cartilage matrix proteoglycans, or on the hydrodynamic size of proteoglycan monomers, in rabbit chondrocyte cultures. However, at 10–1,000 μg/ml, HA suppressed the release of35S‐proteoglycans from the cell matrix layer into the medium in the presence and absence of interleukin‐1, tumor necrosis factor α, or basic fibroblast growth factor.Conclusion.These results suggest that HA is a potent inhibitor of the displacement of matrix proteoglycan into culture medium.
Prevention of autoimmune inflammatory polyarthritis in male new zealand black/kn mice by transplantation of bone marrow cells plus bone (stromal cells)
Authors: Nakagawa Takuma , Nagata Norikazu , Hosaka Naoki , Ogawa Ryoukei , Nakamura Kunie , Ikehara Susumu 
Published: May 2012

AbstractObjective. To prevent polyarthritis in male New Zealand black/KN (NZB/KN) mice by transplantation of both bone marrow cells (BMC) and bone (to recruit stromal cells) from normal mice.Methods. Arthritic lesions in male NZB/KN mice injected intravenously with BMC plus bone from C57BI/10 mice were compared with those in untreated male NZB/KN mice.Results. Male NZB/KN mice engrafted with BMC plus bone were both radiologically and histopathologically normal, and had decreased production of anti‐single‐stranded DNA antibodies and rheumatoid factors at 8–12 months of age.Conclusion. Bone marrow transplantation prevented polyarthritis in male NZB/KN mice.
A unique presentation of multicentric reticulohistiocytosis in pregnancy
Authors: Conaghan Philip , Miller Marian , Dowling John P. , Cowen Peter , Littlejohn Geoffrey 
Published: May 2012

AbstractWe describe a patient with multicentric reticulo‐histiocytosis who presented, during the second trimester of pregnancy, with symmetric polyarthritis, marked erythematous, pulsatile synovial swelling of the distal interphalangeal joints of both hands, and widespread telangiectasias. She did not have the typical skin manifestations of multicentric reticulohistiocytosis. The erythema and pulsatility of the synovial swellings of the distal interphalangeal joints resolved after delivery, but she continued to have widespread active synovitis, which did not resolve until treatment with low‐dose oral methotrexate was instituted.
Derivation and validation of the Systemic Lupus International Collaborating Clinics classification criteria for systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Petri Michelle , Orbai Ana‐Maria , Alarcón Graciela S. , Gordon Caroline , Merrill Joan T. , Fortin Paul R. , Bruce Ian N. , Isenberg David , Wallace Daniel J. , Nived Ola , Sturfelt Gunnar , Ramsey‐Goldman Rosalind , Bae Sang‐Cheol , Hanly John G. , Sánchez‐Guerrero Jorge , Clarke Ann , Aranow Cynthia , Manzi Susan , Urowitz Murray , Gladman Dafna , Kalunian Kenneth , Costner Melissa , Werth Victoria P. , Zoma Asad , Bernatsky Sasha , Ruiz‐Irastorza Guillermo , Khamashta Munther A. , Jacobsen Soren , Buyon Jill P. , Maddison Peter , Dooley Mary Anne , van Vollenhoven Ronald F. , Ginzler Ellen , Stoll Thomas , Peschken Christine , Jorizzo Joseph L. , Callen Jeffrey P. , Lim S. Sam , Fessler Barri J. , Inanc Murat , Kamen Diane L. , Rahman Anisur , Steinsson Kristjan , Franks Andrew G. , Sigler Lisa , Hameed Suhail , Fang Hong , Pham Ngoc , Brey Robin , Weisman Michael H. , McGwin Gerald , Magder Laurence S. 
Published: May 2012

AbstractObjectiveThe Systemic Lupus International Collaborating Clinics (SLICC) group revised and validated the American College of Rheumatology (ACR) systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) classification criteria in order to improve clinical relevance, meet stringent methodology requirements, and incorporate new knowledge regarding the immunology of SLE.MethodsThe classification criteria were derived from a set of 702 expert‐rated patient scenarios. Recursive partitioning was used to derive an initial rule that was simplified and refined based on SLICC physician consensus. The SLICC group validated the classification criteria in a new validation sample of 690 new expert‐rated patient scenarios.ResultsSeventeen criteria were identified. In the derivation set, the SLICC classification criteria resulted in fewer misclassifications compared with the current ACR classification criteria (49 versus 70; P = 0.0082) and had greater sensitivity (94% versus 86%; P < 0.0001) and equal specificity (92% versus 93%; P = 0.39). In the validation set, the SLICC classification criteria resulted in fewer misclassifications compared with the current ACR classification criteria (62 versus 74; P = 0.24) and had greater sensitivity (97% versus 83%; P < 0.0001) but lower specificity (84% versus 96%; P < 0.0001).ConclusionThe new SLICC classification criteria performed well in a large set of patient scenarios rated by experts. According to the SLICC rule for the classification of SLE, the patient must satisfy at least 4 criteria, including at least one clinical criterion and one immunologic criterion OR the patient must have biopsy‐proven lupus nephritis in the presence of antinuclear antibodies or anti–double‐stranded DNA antibodies.
N‐acetylcysteine reduces disease activity by blocking mammalian target of rapamycin in T cells from systemic lupus erythematosus patients: A randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled trial
Authors: Lai Zhi‐Wei , Hanczko Robert , Bonilla Eduardo , Caza Tiffany N. , Clair Brandon , Bartos Adam , Miklossy Gabriella , Jimah John , Doherty Edward , Tily Hajra , Francis Lisa , Garcia Ricardo , Dawood Maha , Yu Jianghong , Ramos Irene , Coman Ioana , Faraone Stephen V. , Phillips Paul E. , Perl Andras 
Published: May 2012

AbstractObjectiveSystemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients exhibit T cell dysfunction, which can be regulated through mitochondrial transmembrane potential (Δψm) and mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) by glutathione (GSH). This randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled study was undertaken to examine the safety, tolerance, and efficacy of the GSH precursor N‐acetylcysteine (NAC).MethodsA total of 36 SLE patients received either daily placebo or 1.2 gm, 2.4 gm, or 4.8 gm of NAC. Disease activity was evaluated monthly by the British Isles Lupus Assessment Group (BILAG) index, the SLE Disease Activity Index (SLEDAI), and the Fatigue Assessment Scale (FAS) before, during, and after a 3‐month treatment period. Mitochondrial transmembrane potential and mTOR were assessed by flow cytometry. Forty‐two healthy subjects matched to patients for age, sex, and ethnicity were studied as controls.ResultsNAC up to 2.4 gm/day was tolerated by all patients, while 33% of those receiving 4.8 gm/day had reversible nausea. Placebo or NAC 1.2 gm/day did not influence disease activity. Considered together, 2.4 gm and 4.8 gm NAC reduced the SLEDAI score after 1 month (P = 0.0007), 2 months (P = 0.0009), 3 months (P = 0.0030), and 4 months (P = 0.0046); the BILAG score after 1 month (P = 0.029) and 3 months (P = 0.009); and the FAS score after 2 months (P = 0.0006) and 3 months (P = 0.005). NAC increased Δψm (P = 0.0001) in all T cells, profoundly reduced mTOR activity (P = 0.0009), enhanced apoptosis (P = 0.0004), reversed expansion of CD4−CD8− T cells (mean ± SEM 1.35 ± 0.12‐fold change; P = 0.008), stimulated FoxP3 expression in CD4+CD25+ T cells (P = 0.045), and reduced anti‐DNA production (P = 0.049).ConclusionThis pilot study suggests that NAC safely improves lupus disease activity by blocking mTOR in T lymphocytes.
Protein kinase Cδ oxidation contributes to ERK inactivation in lupus T cells
Authors: Gorelik Gabriela J. , Yarlagadda Sushma , Richardson Bruce C. 
Published: May 2012

AbstractObjectiveCD4+ T cells from patients with active lupus have impaired ERK pathway signaling that decreases DNA methyltransferase expression, resulting in DNA demethylation, overexpression of immune genes, and autoimmunity. The ERK pathway defect is due to impaired phosphorylation of T505 in the protein kinase Cδ (PKCδ) activation loop. However, the mechanisms that prevent PKCδ T505 phosphorylation in lupus T cells are unknown. Others have reported that oxidative modifications, and nitration in particular, of T cells as well as serum proteins correlate with lupus disease activity. We undertook this study to test our hypothesis that nitration inactivates PKCδ, contributing to impaired ERK pathway signaling in lupus T cells.MethodsCD4+ T cells were purified from lupus patients and controls and then stimulated with phorbol myristate acetate (PMA). Signaling protein levels, nitration, and phosphorylation were quantitated by immunoprecipitation and immunoblotting of T cell lysates. Transfections were performed by electroporation.ResultsTreating CD4+ T cells with peroxynitrite nitrated PKCδ, preventing PKCδ T505 phosphorylation and inhibiting ERK pathway signaling similar to that observed in lupus T cells. Patients with active lupus had higher nitrated T cell PKCδ levels than did controls, which correlated directly with disease activity, and antinitrotyrosine immunoprecipitations demonstrated that nitrated PKCδ, but not unmodified PKCδ, was refractory to PMA‐stimulated T505 phosphorylation, similar to PKCδ in peroxynitrite‐treated cells.ConclusionOxidative stress causes PKCδ nitration, which prevents its phosphorylation and contributes to the decreased ERK signaling in lupus T cells. These results identify PKCδ as a link between oxidative stress and the T cell epigenetic modifications in lupus.
Type I interferons modulate vascular function, repair, thrombosis, and plaque progression in murine models of lupus and atherosclerosis
Authors: Thacker Seth G. , Zhao Wenpu , Smith Carolyne K. , Luo Wei , Wang Hui , Vivekanandan‐Giri Anuradha , Rabquer Bradley J. , Koch Alisa E. , Pennathur Subramaniam , Davidson Anne , Eitzman Daniel T. , Kaplan Mariana J. 
Published: May 2012

AbstractObjectivePatients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) have a notable increase in atherothrombotic cardiovascular disease (CVD) which is not explained by the Framingham risk equation. In vitro studies indicate that type I interferons (IFNs) may play prominent roles in increased CV risk in SLE. However, the in vivo relevance of these findings, with regard to the development of CVD, has not been characterized. This study was undertaken to examine the role of type I IFNs in endothelial dysfunction, aberrant vascular repair, and atherothrombosis in murine models of lupus and atherosclerosis.MethodsLupus‐prone New Zealand mixed 2328 (NZM) mice and atherosclerosis‐prone apolipoprotein E– knockout (apoE−/−) mice were compared to mice lacking type I IFN receptor (INZM and apoE−/−IFNAR−/− mice, respectively) with regard to endothelial vasodilatory function, endothelial progenitor cell (EPC) function, in vivo neoangiogenesis, plaque development, and occlusive thrombosis. Similar experiments were performed using NZM and apoE−/− mice exposed to an IFNα‐containing or empty adenovirus.ResultsLoss of type I IFN receptor signaling improved endothelium‐dependent vasorelaxation, lipoprotein parameters, EPC numbers and function, and neoangiogenesis in lupus‐prone mice, independent of disease activity or sex. Further, acute exposure to IFNα impaired endothelial vasorelaxation and EPC function in lupus‐prone and non–lupus‐prone mice. Decreased atherosclerosis severity and arterial inflammatory infiltrates and increased neoangiogenesis were observed in apoE−/−IFNAR−/− mice, compared to apoE−/− mice, while NZM and apoE−/− mice exposed to IFNα developed accelerated thrombosis and platelet activation.ConclusionThese results support the hypothesis that type I IFNs play key roles in the development of premature CVD in SLE and, potentially, in the general population, through pleiotropic deleterious effects on the vasculature.
Decreased microRNA‐142‐3p/5p expression causes CD4+ T cell activation and B cell hyperstimulation in systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Ding Shu , Liang Yunsheng , Zhao Ming , Liang Gongping , Long Hai , Zhao Sha , Wang Yu , Yin Heng , Zhang Peng , Zhang Qing , Lu Qianjin 
Published: May 2012

AbstractObjectiveTo examine the role of microRNA‐142‐3p/5p (miR‐142‐3p/5p) in the development of autoimmunity in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).MethodsMicroRNA‐142‐3p/5p expression levels were determined by real‐time quantitative polymerase chain reaction, and potential target genes were verified using luciferase reporter gene assays. The effects of miR‐142‐3p/5p on T cell function were assessed by transfection with miR‐142‐3p/5p inhibitors or mimics. Histone modifications and methylation levels within a putative regulatory region of the miR‐142 locus were detected by chromatin immunoprecipitation assay and bisulfite sequencing, respectively.ResultsWe confirmed that miR‐142‐3p and miR‐142‐5p were significantly down‐regulated in SLE CD4+ T cells compared with healthy controls and observed that miR‐142‐3p/5p levels were inversely correlated with the putative SLE‐related targets signaling lymphocytic activation molecule–associated protein (SAP), CD84, and interleukin‐10 (IL‐10). We demonstrated that miR‐142‐3p and miR‐142‐5p directly inhibit SAP, CD84, and IL‐10 translation, and that reduced miR‐142‐3p/5p expression in CD4+ T cells can significantly increase protein levels of these target genes. Furthermore, inhibiting miR‐142‐3p/5p in healthy donor CD4+ T cells caused T cell overactivation and B cell hyperstimulation, whereas overexpression of miR‐142‐3p/5p in SLE CD4+ T cells had the opposite effect. We also observed that the decrease in miR‐142 expression in SLE CD4+ T cells correlated with changes to histone modifications and DNA methylation levels upstream of the miR‐142 precursor sequence.ConclusionThe results of this study indicate that reduced expression of miR‐142‐3p/5p in the CD4+ T cells of patients with SLE causes T cell activity and B cell hyperstimulation.
Mitochondrial dysfunction increases inflammatory responsiveness to cytokines in normal human chondrocytes
Authors: Vaamonde‐García Carlos , Riveiro‐Naveira Romina R. , Valcárcel‐Ares Marta N. , Hermida‐Carballo Laura , Blanco Francisco J. , López‐Armada María J. 
Published: May 2012

AbstractObjectiveAlterations in mitochondria play a key role in the pathogenesis of osteoarthritis (OA). The role of inflammation in the progression of OA has also acquired important new dimensions. This study was undertaken to evaluate the potential role of mitochondrial dysfunction in increasing the inflammatory response of normal human chondrocytes to cytokines.MethodsMitochondrial dysfunction was induced by commonly used inhibitors. Interleukin‐1β (IL‐1β) and tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα) were used as inflammatory mediators. IL‐8 and cyclooxygenase 2 (COX‐2) protein and messenger RNA (mRNA) expression and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) levels were assessed. The chemotactic activity of neutrophils was assayed. Additionally, inhibitors of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and NF‐κB were used to identify possible inflammatory response pathways induced by mitochondrial dysfunction, and the effects of the natural antioxidant resveratrol were tested.ResultsPretreatment with antimycin A or oligomycin (inhibitors of mitochondrial respiratory chain complexes III and V, respectively) triggered a strong potentiation of IL‐1β–induced IL‐8 mRNA and protein expression (mean ± SEM at 18 hours 5,932 ± 1,995 pg/50,000 cells for IL‐1β alone versus 16,241 ± 5,843 pg/50,000 cells for antimycin A plus IL‐1β and 20,087 ± 5,407 pg/50,000 cells for oligomycin plus IL‐1β; P < 0.05). Similar results were observed with TNFα or when expression of the inflammatory mediator COX‐2 or PGE2 production was assessed. Mitochondrial dysfunction increased the chemotactic activity induced by cytokines, and ROS and NF‐κB inhibitors decreased the production of IL‐8. Resveratrol significantly reduced the inflammatory response.ConclusionOur findings indicate that mitochondrial dysfunction could amplify the responsiveness to cytokine‐induced chondrocyte inflammation through ROS production and NF‐κB activation. This pathway might lead to the impairment of cartilage and joint function in OA.
Anatomical Sciences Education Vol. 5, Issue 3, 2012 Cover Image
Authors: Ullah Shahnoor M. , Bodrogi Andrew , Cristea Octav , Johnson Marjorie , McAlister Vivian C. 
Published: May 2012

AbstractMedical students at the Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry at The University of Western Ontario in London, Ontario, Canada, learn clinical facts about the hepatobiliary system as transplant surgeon Dr. Vivian McAlister (at the far right) demonstrates Whipple's procedure in the anatomy laboratory. In this issue of ASE, Ullah and colleagues describe an extracurricular student initiative known as the Surgically Oriented Anatomy Program (SOAP), which aims to deliver anatomy teaching from a surgical perspective through the philosophy of “education through recreation”.
Konstruktionsregeln für Parkbauten in Betonbauweise
Authors: Schöppel Klaus , Stenzel Gerhard 
Published: May 2012

AbstractIn diesem Beitrag werden Konstruktionsregeln für Parkbauten dargestellt. Dabei werden Regel‐ und Sonderbauweisen definiert. Eine Planung gemäß den vorgeschlagenen Regelbauweisen ergibt regelkonforme Parkbauten, die der üblichen Gebrauchstauglichkeit und Dauerhaftigkeit derartiger Bauwerke entsprechen. Konstruktionsmöglichkeiten von Parkbauten, die von den anerkannten Regeln der Technik teilweise abweichen, werden als Sonderbauweisen bezeichnet und hinsichtlich der Risiken infolge der Abweichungen erörtert.Falls der Bauherr eine Sonderbauweise wünscht, ist der Bauherr vom Planer auf den höheren Wartungs‐ und Instandsetzungsbedarf und die geringere Dauerhaftigkeit und Werthaltigkeit der Immobilie eindeutig hinzuweisen.Construction Standards for Car Parks in Concrete DesignIn this paper construction standards for car parks are described. Thereby a difference is made between standard constructions and special constructions. A design following the standard constructions leads to state‐of‐the‐art car parks, which show an appropriate serviceability and durability. Construction methods of car parks, which do not fully follow the generally accepted codes of practice are denoted special constructions and their risks caused by the discrepancies from the generally accepted codes of practice are discussed.If the building owner wants to have a special construction executed, the designer should clearly advise the owner of the exceeded maintenance and repair demand and the reduced durability and real property value.
Sicherheitsanalyse und statisch konstruktive Ertüchtigung des Naturzugkühlturms Block E im Kraftwerk Niederaußem der RWE‐Power AG
Authors: Altmeyer Felix , Weigl Joachim , Scharf Henning 
Published: May 2012

AbstractBauwerke sind ab dem Zeitpunkt ihrer Erstellung durch betriebliche Beanspruchung sowie Bewetterung einem Alterungsprozess unterworfen. Sie altern während der Standzeit. Tragwerke, die zum Zeitpunkt der Erstellung in Übereinstimmung mit den gültigen Normen standen, sind nach neuer Normenlage auf einmal “schwach” dimensioniert. Neue, genauere Berechnungsmethoden und bessere Kenntnis der Beanspruchung zeigen allerdings auch, dass nicht alle nach alter Normengeneration bemessenen Tragwerke den tatsächlichen Einwirkungen in vollem Umfang gerecht werden. Hier sind vor allem die mit der DIN 1045‐1 erweiterten Anforderungen an die Gebrauchstauglichkeit zu nennen.Der vorliegende Beitrag behandelt einen Naturzugkühlturm aus dem Jahr 1968 im Kraftwerk Niederaußem, der durch den Betrieb von nachträglich installierten Abgaseinleitungen Schädigungen erfahren hat. Geschildert werden die Bestandsaufnahme des Kühlturms, die Beurteilung der Standsicherheit mit nichtlinearen Methoden und die sich hieraus ableitende notwendige Sanierung der Kühlturmschale, um den sicheren Betrieb für die weitere Laufzeit zu gewährleisten.Safety analysis and rehabilitation of the natural draft cooling tower Block E at the power plant of NiederaußemFrom the moment of their erection, buildings are exposed to weather and loading. They constantly deteriorate.
Buildings that have been erected in compliance with the relevant codes are all of a sudden “weak” compared to current codes and regulations.New and more “close to reality” methods of calculation and better knowledge of the loading situation shows that not all buildings that are built within the regulations of the old codes have the ability to fulfil the actual demands. This applies in particular to the serviceability limit state of the DIN 1045‐1.The report at hand deals with a natural draft cooling tower from 1968 at the power plant of Niederaußem, which has been damaged as a cause of the operation of a subsequently built flue gas discharge unit.It deals with the surveying of the cooling tower, the estimation of the ultimate limit state with nonlinear methods of calculation and the necessary rehabilitation to guarantee a safe operation during the remaining life time.