bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Upper ‐extremity musculoskeletal symptoms and physical health related quality of life among women employed in poultry processing and other low ‐wage jobs in Northeastern North Carolina
Authors: McPhee C.S. , Lipscomb H.J. 
Published: January 2009

AbstractBackgroundThe purpose of this study was to evaluate the association between upper ‐extremity musculoskeletal symptoms (MS ) and diminished physical health related quality of life (PHRQoL ) in a population of women, mostly African ‐American working in poultry processing and other low ‐wage jobs in rural northeastern North Carolina.MethodsA cross ‐sectional analysis was performed on baseline data of self ‐reported PHRQoL and musculoskeletal symptoms for 291 poultry processing workers and 299 community comparison women. Logarithmic binomial regression was performed to assess the relationship between moderate to severe MS on low PHRQoL.ResultsPrevalence of poor PHRQoL was 35.5 % among poultry processing workers, and 14.7 % among community comparison group. Moderate to severe upper ‐extremity musculoskeletal symptoms were present in 34.4 % of the poultry workers and 10.7 % of the comparison group. After adjusting for age and other chronic conditions, moderate to severe musculoskeletal symptoms were associated with low PHRQoL in both groups. Although the observed effect was stronger among the comparison group (adjusted prevalence ratios (95 % confidence interval ): poultry workers   =  1.89 (1.36, 2.64 ), community comparison   =  4.26 (2.51, 7.24 ), the population attributable risk percent was similar (poultry workers   =  28.9, community comparison   =  31.3 % ) ) due to the higher prevalence of moderate to severe symptoms in the poultry workers.ConclusionsSignificant upper‐extremity musculoskeletal symptoms were associated with poor PHRQoL among both groups of women employed in low ‐wage jobs. Nationwide, poultry work is over ‐represented by minorities and immigrants. Though challenging, we need to search for ways to improve the conditions of these women as a matter of social justice. Am. J. Ind. Med. 52:331–340, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Synthesis of Pure Phosphorus Nanostructures
Authors: Winchester Richard A. L. , Whitby Max , Shaffer Milo S. P. 
Published: January 2009

AbstractMit oder ohne Katalysator: Die Synthese von Phosphornanostäben mit zwei unterschiedlichen Morphologien – mit oder ohne Bismutkatalysator – wird vorgestellt. Diese Materialien repräsentieren nicht nur eine neue Klasse elementarer Nanostäbe, sondern eröffnen auch Einblicke in die komplexe Allotropie des Phosphors.magnified image
Synthesis of Pure Phosphorus Nanostructures
Authors: Winchester Richard A. L. , Whitby Max , Shaffer Milo S. P. 
Published: January 2009

AbstractTo Bi or not to Bi? The synthesis of phosphorus nanorods of two differing morphologies is reported, in both the presence and absence of a bismuth catalyst. Not only do these materials represent a new class of elemental nanorods but they also give valuable insight into the complex allotropy of phosphorus.magnified image
Iridium‐Catalyzed Reactions of Trifluoromethylated Compounds with Alkenes: A CH Bond Activation α to the Trifluoromethyl Group
Authors: Guo Yong , Zhao Xiaming , Zhang Dazhi , Murahashi Shun‐Ichi 
Published: January 2009

AbstractCatalytic convenience: The use of iridium or ruthenium catalysts for CH bond activation has led to the addition reaction of trifluoromethylated compounds to alkenes (see scheme). This atom‐economical reaction occurs under neutral reaction conditions and without the formation of undesired defluorinated by‐products, even at high temperature.magnified image
Improved function from progressive strengthening interventions after total knee arthroplasty: A randomized clinical trial with an imbedded prospective cohort
Authors: Petterson Stephanie C. , Mizner Ryan L. , Stevens Jennifer E. , Raisis Leo , Bodenstab Alex , Newcomb William , Snyder‐Mackler Lynn 
Published: January 2009

AbstractObjectiveTo determine the effectiveness of progressive quadriceps strengthening with or without neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) on quadriceps strength, activation, and functional recovery after total knee arthroplasty (TKA), and to compare progressive strengthening with conventional rehabilitation.MethodsA randomized controlled trial was conducted between July 2000 and November 2005 in an academic outpatient physical therapy clinic. Two hundred patients who had undergone primary, unilateral TKA for knee osteoarthritis were randomized to 1 of 2 interventions 4 weeks after surgery, and 41 patients eligible for enrollment who did not participate in the intervention were tested 12 months after surgery (standard of care group). All randomized patients received 6 weeks of outpatient physical therapy 2 or 3 times per week through 1 of 2 intervention protocols: an exercise group (volitional strength training) or an exercise‐NMES group (volitional strength training and NMES). Treatment effects were evaluated by a burst superimposition test to assess quadriceps strength and volitional activation 3 and 12 months postoperatively. The Medical Outcomes Study Short Form 36 and Knee Outcome Survey were completed. Knee range of motion, Timed Up and Go, Stair‐Climbing Test, and 6‐Minute Walk were also measured.ResultsStrength, activation, and function were similar between the exercise and exercise‐NMES groups at 3 and 12 months. The standard of care group was weaker and exhibited worse function at 12 months compared with both treatment groups.ConclusionProgressive quadriceps strengthening with or without NMES enhances clinical improvement after TKA, achieving similar short‐ and long‐term functional recovery and approaching the functional level of healthy older adults. Conventional rehabilitation does not yield similar outcomes.
Health‐related quality of life for patients with vasculitis and their spouses
Authors: Carpenter Delesha M. , Thorpe Carolyn T. , Lewis Megan , Devellis Robert F. , Hogan Susan L. 
Published: January 2009

AbstractObjectiveChronic disease affects both patients and spouses, yet the effect of vasculitis on the spouses of patients has not been systematically examined. We addressed this research gap by describing 8 dimensions of health‐related quality of life (HRQOL) for antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody–associated vasculitis (AAV) patients and their spouses and compared patients and spouses with norms for the general US population. We also determined whether the impact of AAV on HRQOL differs by sex for patients or their spouses.MethodsNinety‐seven patients with AAV and their spouses completed a mailed questionnaire that included demographic information and a measure of HRQOL (Medical Outcomes Study Short Form 36.) Using the RAND method, we calculated 8 HRQOL dimensions: general health, physical functioning, emotional role limitations, physical role limitations, social functioning, mental health, bodily pain, and energy/vitality. Using norm‐based scores, we compared the HRQOL of patients and spouses with the general US population. We then used multivariate analysis of covariance (MANCOVA) test for sex differences in HRQOL for patients and spouses.ResultsPatients with AAV scored lower than the US norm on all HRQOL subscales with the exception of bodily pain. In contrast, spouses scored similarly to national norms. When age, education, race, illness duration, and disease severity were controlled, there were no significant sex differences in HRQOL for patients or spouses.ConclusionAAV negatively impacts HRQOL for patients; whereas, spouses do not appear to be as negatively impacted. Long‐term marriages may attenuate the effect of sex on HRQOL. Quality of life should be assessed throughout the disease course for both patients and spouses.
Involvement of the Wnt signaling pathway in experimental and human osteoarthritis: Prominent role of Wnt‐induced signaling protein 1
Authors: Blom Arjen B. , Brockbank Sarah M. , van Lent Peter L. , van Beuningen Henk M. , Geurts Jeroen , Takahashi Nozomi , van der Kraan Peter M. , van de Loo Fons A. , Schreurs B. Wim , Clements Kristen , Newham Peter , van den Berg Wim B. 
Published: January 2009

AbstractObjectiveWnt signaling pathway proteins are involved in embryonic development of cartilage and bone, and, interestingly, developmental processes appear to be recapitulated in osteoarthritic (OA) cartilage. The present study was undertaken to characterize the expression pattern of Wnt and Fz genes during experimental OA and to determine the function of selected genes in experimental and human OA.MethodsLongitudinal expression analysis was performed in 2 models of OA. Levels of messenger RNA for genes from the Wnt/β‐catenin pathway were determined in synovium and cartilage, and the results were validated using immunohistochemistry. Effects of selected genes were assessed in vitro using recombinant protein, and in vivo by adenoviral overexpression.ResultsWnt‐induced signaling protein 1 (WISP‐1) expression was strongly increased in the synovium and cartilage of mice with experimental OA. Wnt‐16 and Wnt‐2B were also markedly up‐regulated during the course of disease. Interestingly, increased WISP‐1 expression was also found in human OA cartilage and synovium. Stimulation of macrophages and chondrocytes with recombinant WISP‐1 resulted in interleukin‐1–independent induction of several matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and aggrecanase. Adenoviral overexpression of WISP‐1 in murine knee joints induced MMP and aggrecanase expression and resulted in cartilage damage.ConclusionThis study included a comprehensive characterization of Wnt and Frizzled gene expression in experimental and human OA articular joint tissue. The data demonstrate, for the first time, that WISP‐1 expression is a feature of experimental and human OA and that WISP‐1 regulates chondrocyte and macrophage MMP and aggrecanase expression and is capable of inducing articular cartilage damage in models of OA.
Long‐term effects of chondroitins 4 and 6 sulfate on knee osteoarthritis: The study on osteoarthritis progression prevention, a two‐year, randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled trial
Authors: Kahan André , Uebelhart Daniel , De Vathaire Florent , Delmas Pierre D. , Reginster Jean‐Yves 
Published: January 2009

AbstractObjectiveTo assess the long‐term effects of chondroitins 4 and 6 sulfate (CS) on the radiographic progression of, and symptom changes associated with, knee osteoarthritis (OA).MethodsWe performed an international, randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled trial in which 622 patients with knee OA were randomly assigned to receive either 800 mg CS (n = 309 patients) or placebo (n = 313 patients) once daily for 2 years. Radiographs of the target knee, using the Lyon schuss view, were obtained at the time of enrollment and at 12, 18, and 24 months. The minimum joint space width (JSW) of the medial compartment of the tibiofemoral joint was assessed by digital image analysis. The primary outcome was the loss in minimum JSW over 2 years.ResultsThe intent‐to‐treat analysis demonstrated a significant reduction (P < 0.0001) in minimum JSW loss in the CS group (mean ± SEM −0.07 ± 0.03 mm) as compared with the placebo group (−0.31 ± 0.04 mm). The percentage of patients with radiographic progression ≥0.25 mm was significantly reduced in the CS group compared with the placebo group (28% versus 41% [P < 0.0005]; relative risk reduction 33% [95% confidence interval 16–46%]). The number of patients needed to treat was 8 (95% confidence interval 5–17). Pain improved significantly faster in the CS group than in the placebo group (P < 0.01). There were no differences in safety between groups.ConclusionThe long‐term combined structure‐modifying and symptom‐modifying effects of CS suggest that it could be a disease‐modifying agent in patients with knee OA.
Prostaglandin E2and its cognate EP receptors control human adult articular cartilage homeostasis and are linked to the pathophysiology of osteoarthritis
Authors: Li Xin , Ellman Michael , Muddasani Prasuna , Wang James H.‐C. , Cs‐Szabo Gabriella , van Wijnen Andre J. , Im Hee‐Jeong 
Published: January 2009

AbstractObjectiveTo elucidate the pathophysiologic links between prostaglandin E2(PGE2) and osteoarthritis (OA) by characterizing the catabolic effects of PGE2and its unique receptors in human adult articular chondrocytes.MethodsHuman adult articular chondrocytes were cultured in monolayer or alginate beads with and without PGE2and/or agonists of EP receptors, antagonists of EP receptors, and cytokines. Cell survival, proliferation, and total proteoglycan synthesis and accumulation were measured in alginate beads. Chondrocyte‐related gene expression and phosphatidylinositol 3‐kinase/Akt signaling were assessed by real‐time reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction and Western blotting, respectively, using a monolayer cell culture model.ResultsStimulation of human articular chondrocytes with PGE2through the EP2 receptor suppressed proteoglycan accumulation and synthesis, suppressed aggrecan gene expression, did not appreciably affect expression of matrix‐degrading enzymes, and decreased the type II collagen:type I collagen ratio. EP2 and EP4 receptors were expressed at higher levels in knee cartilage than in ankle cartilage and in a grade‐dependent manner. PGE2titration combined with interleukin‐1 (IL‐1) synergistically accelerated expression of pain‐associated molecules such as inducible nitric oxide synthase and IL‐6. Finally, stimulation with exogenous PGE2or an EP2 receptor–specific agonist inhibited activation of Akt that was induced by insulin‐like growth factor 1.ConclusionPGE2exerts an antianabolic effect on human adult articular cartilage in vitro, and EP2 and EP4 receptor antagonists may represent effective therapeutic agents for the treatment of OA.
In vitro stage‐specific chondrogenesis of mesenchymal stem cells committed to chondrocytes
Authors: Chen Wei‐Hong , Lai Ming‐Tang , Wu Alexander T. H. , Wu Chia‐Che , Gelovani Juri G. , Lin Che‐Tong , Hung Shih‐Chieh , Chiu Wen‐Ta , Deng Win‐Ping 
Published: January 2009

AbstractObjectiveOsteoarthritis is characterized by an imbalance in cartilage homeostasis, which could potentially be corrected by mesenchymal stem cell (MSC)–based therapies. However, in vivo implantation of undifferentiated MSCs has led to unexpected results. This study was undertaken to establish a model for preconditioning of MSCs toward chondrogenesis as a more effective clinical tool for cartilage regeneration.MethodsA coculture preconditioning system was used to improve the chondrogenic potential of human MSCs and to study the detailed stages of chondrogenesis of MSCs, using a human MSC line, Kp‐hMSC, in commitment cocultures with a human chondrocyte line, hPi (labeled with green fluorescent protein [GFP]). In addition, committed MSCs were seeded into a collagen scaffold and analyzed for their neocartilage‐forming ability.ResultsCoculture of hPi‐GFP chondrocytes with Kp‐hMSCs induced chondrogenesis, as indicated by the increased expression of chondrogenic genes and accumulation of chondrogenic matrix, but with no effect on osteogenic markers. The chondrogenic process of committed MSCs was initiated with highly activated chondrogenic adhesion molecules and stimulated cartilage developmental growth factors, including members of the transforming growth factor β superfamily and their downstream regulators, the Smads, as well as endothelial growth factor, fibroblast growth factor, insulin‐like growth factor, and vascular endothelial growth factor. Furthermore, committed Kp‐hMSCs acquired neocartilage‐forming potential within the collagen scaffold.ConclusionThese findings help define the molecular markers of chondrogenesis and more accurately delineate the stages of chondrogenesis during chondrocytic differentiation of human MSCs. The results indicate that human MSCs committed to the chondroprogenitor stage of chondrocytic differentiation undergo detailed chondrogenic changes. This model of in vitro chondrogenesis of human MSCs represents an advance in cell‐based transplantation for future clinical use.
Survival in pulmonary hypertension associated with the scleroderma spectrum of diseases: Impact of interstitial lung disease
Authors: Mathai Stephen C. , Hummers Laura K. , Champion Hunter C. , Wigley Fredrick M. , Zaiman Ari , Hassoun Paul M. , Girgis Reda E. 
Published: January 2009

AbstractObjectivePulmonary hypertension (PH) is an important cause of mortality in systemic sclerosis (SSc), where it can be isolated (pulmonary arterial hypertension [PAH]) or associated with interstitial lung disease (ILD). This study was undertaken to characterize determinants of survival among SSc patients with either type of PH who received PAH‐specific therapy.MethodsConsecutive SSc patients with PAH or ILD‐associated PH confirmed by right heart catheterization were included in the study. Kaplan‐Meier and Cox proportional hazards models were used to compare survival between SSc patients with PAH and those with ILD‐associated PH and to identify predictors of survival.ResultsFifty‐nine patients (39 with PAH and 20 with ILD‐associated PH) were identified. The majority (15 of 20 with ILD‐associated PH and 27 of 39 with PAH) received an endothelin receptor antagonist as initial therapy. Median followup time was 4.4 years (range 2.7–7.4 years). Survival was significantly worse in SSc patients with ILD‐associated PH than in those with PAH (1‐, 2‐, and 3‐year survival rates 82%, 46%, and 39% versus 87%, 79%, and 64%, respectively; P < 0.01 by log rank test). In a multivariable analysis, ILD‐associated PH was associated with a 5‐fold increase in risk of death compared with PAH. Pulmonary vascular resistance index was also an independent predictor of mortality in the overall cohort (hazard ratio 1.05, P < 0.01) and was a significant univariable risk factor in each group separately. Type of initial PAH therapy and the use of warfarin were not related to survival.ConclusionSurvival in SSc complicated by PH remains poor despite currently available treatment options. While therapy may be associated with improved survival in PAH compared with historical controls, the prognosis for patients with ILD‐associated PH is particularly grim. Early diagnosis and treatment may improve outcomes since worsening hemodynamic factors were associated with reduced survival.
Proinflammatory action of the antiinflammatory drug infliximab in tumor necrosis factor receptor–associated periodic syndrome
Authors: Nedjai Belinda , Hitman Graham A. , Quillinan Niamh , Coughlan Robert J. , Church Leigh , McDermott Michael F. , Turner Mark D. 
Published: January 2009

AbstractObjectiveTumor necrosis factor receptor (TNFR)–associated periodic syndrome (TRAPS) is an autosomal‐dominant autoinflammatory condition caused by mutations in the TNFRSF1A gene. Unlike other autoinflammatory diseases in which anti‐TNF therapy is largely a successful treatment option, therapy with the anti‐TNF drug infliximab is often ineffective in patients with TRAPS. Moreover, in certain cases, infliximab actually triggers severe episodes of inflammation. The aim of this study was to elucidate the mechanisms underlying such a reaction.MethodsPeripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) were obtained from patients with TRAPS. Both caspase 3 activity and NF‐κB subunit activity were determined by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. Cytokine secretion was assessed using a specific customized human multiplex bead immunoassay kit.ResultsUnlike findings in controls, cells from a family of 9 patients, all of whom carried the T50M mutation in TNFRSF1A, failed to respond to infliximab through proapoptotic induction of caspase 3 activity. Instead, we observed enhanced antiapoptotic c‐Rel subunit activity, accompanied by a significant increase in secretion of the proinflammatory cytokines interleukin‐ 1β (IL‐1β), IL‐1 receptor, IL‐6, IL‐8, and IL‐12.ConclusionAltered extracellular conformation of TNFRI, resulting from the T50M mutation in TNFRSF1A, results in failure of PBMCs to induce an apoptotic response to infliximab. We hypothesize that failure to shed infliximab‐bound TNF/TNFRI from the cell surface of cells from patients with the T50M mutation triggers c‐Rel activation, and that this leads to a marked increase in cytokine secretion and an increased proinflammatory response. In light of these findings, we strongly advise caution when prescribing infliximab as anti‐TNF therapy to patients with TRAPS.
Prognostic factors in adults with knee pain in general practice
Authors: Belo J. N. , Berger M. Y. , Koes B. W. , Bierma‐Zeinstra S. M. A. 
Published: January 2009

AbstractObjectiveTo predict the 1‐year outcome of incident nontraumatic knee symptoms in adults presenting in general practice.MethodsAdults age >35 years with nontraumatic knee symptoms (n = 480) were followed for 1 year. At baseline, data on knee symptoms and demographics were collected and a physical examination performed. Knee symptoms were assessed by self‐report questionnaires at 3‐month intervals. After 1 year the physical examination was repeated. Multivariate prognostic regression models of patient characteristics, symptom characteristics, and physical examination were used to predict persisting knee symptoms after 1 year. Areas under receiving operating characteristic curves (AUCs) were used to determine the predictive value of the model. To assess the added predictive value of symptom characteristics and physical examination, these models were added to the model of patient characteristics. The improvement was expressed as the difference between the 2 AUCs.ResultsIn the multivariate prognostic model of patient characteristics, age >60 years, educational level, kinesophobia, and comorbidity of the skeletal system were associated with persistent knee symptoms after 1 year (AUC 0.67). Of the symptom characteristics, history of nontraumatic knee symptoms, bilateral symptoms, and duration of symptoms >3 months were associated (AUC 0.73). For determinants of physical examination, crepitus of passive extension was associated (AUC 0.55). The added value of the symptom characteristics model to the patient characteristics model was 0.09 (AUC 0.76). Physical examination added no further value.ConclusionSymptom characteristics are the strongest predictors of persisting knee symptoms at 1‐year followup. Physical examination has no added value in predicting persistent knee symptoms in general practice.