bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of the reproducibility and accuracy of pH-determining devices used to measure urine pH in dogs
Authors: Johnson Kristen Y. , Lulich Jody P. , Osborne Carl A. 
Published: February 2007

Abstract
Objective—To evaluate the reproducibility and accuracy of 4 portable pH meters, a reagent strip, and pH paper for measuring urine pH in dogs.
Design—Prospective masked randomized study.
Sample Population—201 free-catch urine samples from 114 hospitalized dogs.
Procedures—Urine samples were divided into 2-mL aliquots. Measurements of urine pH were obtained by use of a laboratory benchtop pH meter, 4 portable pH meters, a urine reagent strip, and pH paper. The pH of each aliquot was measured within 4 hours of collection by an evaluator unaware of the aliquot's origin.To assess reproducibility, the coefficient of variation for each pH measurement device was calculated. To determine which device was most accurate, the degree of agreement among the different devices was assessed in comparison with the benchtop pH meter, which was considered the reference method.
Results—3 of the 4 portable pH meters had nearly perfect agreement with the reference method. The reagent strip and pH paper had moderate to poor agreement with the reference method.
Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Urine pH measurements should be made by use of a portable or benchtop pH meter when accurate measurements are crucial for diagnosis or treatment. Reagent strips and pH papers are useful in obtaining pH approximations but are not recommended when accurate measurements of urine pH are required.
On Hom-spaces of tame algebras
Authors: Bautista Raymundo , Drozd Yuriy , Zeng Xiangyong , Zhang Yingbo 
Published: February 2007

Abstract
Let Λ be a finite dimensional algebra over an algebraically closed field k and Λ has tame representation type. In this paper, the structure of Hom-spaces of all pairs of indecomposable Λ-modules having dimension smaller than or equal to a fixed natural number is described, and their dimensions are calculated in terms of a finite number of finitely generated Λ-modules and generic Λ-modules. In particular, such spaces are essentially controlled by those of the corresponding generic modules.
Highly Efficient Electrochemiluminescence of Functionalized Tris(2,2′‐bipyridyl)ruthenium(II) and Selective Concentration Enrichment of Its Coreactants
Authors: Xu Y. , Gao Y. , Li T. , Du Y. , Li J. , Wang E. 
Published: February 2007

AbstractAn enhanced electrochemiluminescence (ECL) efficiency is obtained from the ruthenium complex tris(2,2′‐bipyridyl)ruthenium(II) (Ru(bpy)32+) by introduction of an ionic liquid (IL) 1‐butyl‐3‐methylimidazolium tetrafluoroborate (BMImBF4). Upon addition of 1 % (v/v) BMImBF4 to 0.1 mM Ru(bpy)32+ solution, a maximum increase in ECL intensity is obtained both at an indium tin oxide (ITO) electrode (15‐fold) and at a glassy carbon (GC) electrode (5‐ to 6‐fold). Furthermore, upon addition of 1 % (v/v) BMImBF4 to 5 μM Ru(bpy)32+/100 mM co‐reactant systems at a GC electrode, IL adsorption occurs at the electrode surface, which results in a change of the polarity of the electrode surface. Such functionalization greatly improves the functions of both Ru(bpy)32+ and ionic liquids, as is demonstrated in the sensitive and selective concentration enrichment of the Ru(bpy)32+ co‐reactants.
Self‐Assembling Colloidal‐Scale Devices: Selecting and Using Short‐Range Surface Forces Between Conductive Solids
Authors: Cho Y. K. , Wartena R. , Tobias S. M. , Chiang Y.‐M. 
Published: February 2007

AbstractA new general approach to the direct formation of bipolar devices from heterogeneous colloids is suggested. By using surface‐force theory and direct measurements, combinations of conductive device materials between which short‐range repulsive forces exist in the presence of an intervening liquid, and use these interactions to self‐form electrochemical junctions are identified. The inclusion of Lifshitz–van der Waals (LW) and acid–base (AB) interactions appears to be generally sufficient for the prediction of short‐range interactions. Device concepts using repulsive and attractive short‐range interactions to produce self‐organizing colloidal‐scale devices are proposed and demonstrated. A prototype self‐organizing lithium rechargeable battery is demonstrated using lithium cobalt oxide (LiCoO2) and graphite as the active electrode materials.
Ionic Liquid, 1‐n‐Butyl‐3‐methylimidazolium Bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imide, Resulted in the First Catalyst‐Free Aminohalogenation of Electron‐Deficient Alkenes
Authors: Wang Yi‐Ning , Ni Bukuo , Headley Allan D. , Li Guigen 
Published: February 2007

AbstractThe 2‐Ns‐based aminohalogenation of α,β‐unsaturated ketones has been achieved in an ionic liquid, 1‐n‐butyl‐3‐methylimidazolium bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imide {[bmim][N(SO2CF3)2]}. [Bmim][N(SO2CF3)2] was found to be superior not only to classical organic solvents but also to its counterpart, [bmim][BF4], which was proven to be successful in the TsNCl2‐based aminohalogenation but failed to give any product for this reaction. The present process takes the advantage of 2‐NsNCl2 as the stable nitrogen/halogen source in a one‐pot operation without the use of any metal catalysts, it is convenient to perform without special protection of inert gases. Eight examples were examined with good to excellent stereoselectivity (1:5 to one isomer) and modest to good chemical yields (53–72 %).
4‐Aryl‐2‐quinolones through a Pseudo‐Domino Heck/Buchwald–Hartwig Reaction in a Molten Tetrabutylammonium Acetate/ Tetrabutylammonium Bromide Mixture
Authors: Battistuzzi Gianfranco , Bernini Roberta , Cacchi Sandro , De Salve Ilse , Fabrizi Giancarlo 
Published: February 2007

Abstract4‐Aryl‐2‐quinolones can be prepared from readily available o‐bromocinnamamide and aryl iodides using phosphine‐free palladium(II) acetate as the precatalyst and a molten tetra(n‐butyl)ammonium acetate/tetra(n‐butyl)ammonium bromide mixture as the reaction medium. The reaction proceeds through a pseudo‐domino process involving two mechanistically independent, sequential catalytic cycles: a Heck reaction followed by an intramolecular Buchwald–Hartwig CN bond forming reaction.
Enantioselective Organocatalysis of Strecker and Mannich Reactions Based on Carbohydrates
Authors: Becker Christian , Hoben Christine , Kunz Horst 
Published: February 2007

AbstractEfficient organocatalysts for enantioselective Strecker and Mannich reactions were constructed from glucosamine as a readily accessible chiral scaffold. A variety of aromatic aldimines were subjected to hydrocyanation with good to excellent yield (72–98 %) and, in part, high enantioselectivity (69–95 % ee). Influence of the catalyst architecture on the enantioselectivity obviously arises from restrictions imposed on the conformational flexibility of the monosaccharidic backbone. In the asymmetric Mannich reaction moderate yields (up to 76 %) and enantioselectivities (up to 58 % ee) have been achieved with the described catalyst.
Electrochemical Recycling of Benzoquinone in the Pd/Benzoquinone‐Catalyzed Heck‐Type Reactions from Arenes
Authors: Amatore Christian , Cammoun Chama , Jutand Anny 
Published: February 2007

AbstractPalladium(II) acetate‐catalyzed Heck‐type reactions have been performed from the arene 1 and alkenes (n‐butyl acrylate, styrene) in acetic acid at room temperature, in the presence of a catalytic amount of benzoquinone or hydroquinone. The reactions have been made catalytic in benzoquinone [which is used to continuously oxidize the Pd(0) into to the active Pd(II) species able to activate the ArH bond] by the electrochemical oxidation of hydroquinone, formed in the reaction, back to benzoquinone.
Construction of Adjacent Quaternary and Tertiary Stereocenters via an Organocatalytic Allylic Alkylation of Morita–Baylis–Hillman Carbonates
Authors: van Steenis Dirk Jan V. C. , Marcelli Tommaso , Lutz Martin , Spek Anthony L. , van Maarseveen Jan H. , Hiemstra Henk 
Published: February 2007

AbstractRacemic Baylis–Hillman carbonates can be converted in densely functionalized products by reaction with cyano esters in the presence of a catalytic amount of a modified Cinchona alkaloid in high enantioselectivities and fair diastereoselectivities. A rational for the observed stereoselectivity is presented.
Cryopreservation of hematopoietic stem cells
Authors: Berz David , McCormack Elise M. , Winer Eric S. , Colvin Gerald A. , Quesenberry Peter J. 
Published: February 2007

AbstractStem cell transplantation represents a critical approach for the treatment of many malignant and non‐malignant diseases. The foundation for these approaches is the ability to cryopreserve marrow cells for future use. This technique is routinely employed in all autologous settings and is critical for cord blood transplantation. A variety of cryopreservatives have been used with multiple freezing and thawing techniques as outlined in the later chapters. Freezing efficiency has been proven repeatedly and the ability of long‐term stored marrow to repopulate has been established. Standard approaches outlined here are used in many labs as the field continues to evolve. Am. J. Hematol., 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Apoptosis and blood–testis barrier during the first spermatogenic wave in the pubertal rat
Authors: Morales Alfonsina , Mohamed Fabian , Cavicchia Juan Carlos 
Published: February 2007

AbstractThis research explores the initial assembly of the blood–testis barrier (BTB) during puberty, when a massive physiological apoptosis in the first spermatogenic wave takes place. Fragments of testis from 14‐ to 20‐day‐old rats were studied by conventional transmission electron microscopic techniques. Lanthanum hydroxide was used as an intercellular tracer. Light microscopy was used to confirm apoptotic death when paraffin‐embedded sections were studied by TUNEL analysis. When the seminiferous cords reached the zygotene–pachytene spermatocyte level, they exhibited abundant apoptotic figures, whereas the remaining segments showed sporadic apoptosis. We found a BTB not yet assembled in the cords with zygotene–pachytene spermatocytes and abundant apoptosis. The observed apoptosis frequency diminished drastically when BTB was organized, as confirmed by the use of the tracer. Our conclusion is that the massive apoptosis found in the zygotene–pachytene spermatocytes between days 14 and 20 coincides with an open BTB. The absence of BTB could be one of the factors causing massive apoptosis of zygotene–pachytene spermatocytes, at least within the time span analyzed. The zygotene–pachytene spermatocytes are left exposed in an open environment instead of being isolated in the adluminal compartment to which they are destined. Anat Rec 290:206–214, 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Aggrecan degradation in human articular cartilage explants is mediated by both ADAMTS‐4 and ADAMTS‐5
Authors: Song Ruo‐Hua , D. Tortorella Micky , Malfait Anne‐Marie , Alston James T. , Yang Zhiyong , Arner Elizabeth C. , Griggs David W. 
Published: February 2007

AbstractObjectiveRecent published studies have shown that cartilage from ADAMTS‐5–knockout mice, but not ADAMTS‐4– or ADAMTS‐1–knockout mice, is significantly protected from degradation. The present study was undertaken to evaluate the respective roles of these enzymes in human cartilage breakdown, using a small interfering RNA (siRNA) approach to assess the effects of inhibition of each enzyme in normal and osteoarthritic (OA) explants.MethodsThe activities of siRNA specifically targeting ADAMTS‐1, ‐4, and ‐5 were assessed by transfection into primary human chondrocytes and cultured human cartilage explants. At 24 hours, a cytokine stimulus was applied to normal, but not OA, samples to initiate a catabolic response. At designated times, total RNA was isolated and gene expression was measured by quantitative real‐time reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction. Aggrecan release and aggrecanase‐generated neoepitope formation were determined by dye binding analysis and Western blotting, respectively.ResultsHuman chondrocytes and explants were efficiently transfected with siRNA that specifically decreased the expression of each targeted gene. Suppression of ADAMTS‐4 and ADAMTS‐5, individually or in combination, attenuated the degradation of aggrecan in cytokine‐stimulated normal cartilage. A reduction in aggrecan degradation was also observed following siRNA‐mediated knockdown of either gene in unstimulated OA cartilage. In contrast, knockdown of ADAMTS‐1 failed to inhibit aggrecan loss.ConclusionDespite the apparent dominant role of ADAMTS‐5 in genetically modified mice, our data suggest that both ADAMTS‐4 and ADAMTS‐5 contribute to the structural damage that characterizes human OA.
Angiotensin II type 1 receptor as a novel therapeutic target in rheumatoid arthritis: In vivo analyses in rodent models of arthritis and ex vivo analyses in human inflammatory synovitis
Authors: Price A. , Lockhart J. C. , Ferrell W. R. , Gsell W. , McLean S. , Sturrock R. D. 
Published: February 2007

AbstractObjectiveAngiotensin II (Ang II) is known to have proinflammatory actions, and Ang II type 1 (AT1) receptors are up‐regulated in the rheumatoid synovium, suggesting that this receptor could be a therapeutic target. The purpose of this study was to investigate the antiinflammatory potential of the selective AT1 receptor antagonist losartan, which is currently used for the treatment of cardiovascular disease.MethodsDose‐ranging studies of losartan (1–50 mg/kg) were initially conducted in a rat model of acute (carrageenan/kaolin) arthritis, with subsequent evaluation in a rat model of adjuvant‐induced arthritis (Freund's complete adjuvant). Losartan (10–10 to 10–6M) was further tested ex vivo in human inflammatory synovitis, using collagenase‐digested synovium.ResultsWestern blot and immunohistochemical analyses both revealed a substantial increase in AT1 receptor protein content in synovium from acutely and chronically inflamed rat knee joints. Similarly, synovial Ang I/II protein content was elevated during inflammation. Losartan inhibited acute joint inflammation in a dose‐dependent manner, with 15 mg/kg being the optimal dose (and used in subsequent studies). Both prophylactic and therapeutic administration of 15 mg/kg of losartan substantially reduced knee joint swelling in rats with adjuvant monarthritis (≥50%; P < 0.0001). Losartan also suppressed tumor necrosis factor α generation from inflamed human synovium in a dose‐dependent manner (P < 0.05).ConclusionTargeting the angiotensin pathway, particularly AT1 receptors, could have significant therapeutic potential. Randomized placebo‐controlled trials are now warranted to establish the extent to which angiotensin receptor blockers may provide antiinflammatory benefits.
Safety and efficacy of meningococcal c vaccination in juvenile idiopathic arthritis
Authors: Zonneveld‐Huijssoon Evelien , Ronaghy Arash , Van Rossum Marion A. J. , Rijkers Ger T. , Van Der Klis Fiona R. M. , Sanders Elisabeth A. M. , Vermeer‐De Bondt Patricia E. , Hoes Arno W. , Van Der Net Jan Jaap , Engels Carla , Kuis Wietse , Prakken Berent J. , Van Tol Maarten J. D. , Wulffraat Nico M. 
Published: February 2007

AbstractObjectiveTo determine whether vaccinations aggravate the course of autoimmune diseases such as juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) and whether the immune response to vaccinations may be hampered by immunosuppressive therapy for the underlying disease.MethodsIn this multicenter cohort study, 234 patients with JIA (ages 1–19 years) were vaccinated with meningococcal serogroup C (MenC) conjugate to protect against serogroup C disease (caused by Neisseria meningitidis). Patients were followed up for disease activity for 1 year, from 6 months before until 6 months after vaccination. IgG antibody titers against MenC polysaccharide and the tetanus carrier protein were determined by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay and toxin binding inhibition assay, respectively. A serum bactericidal assay was performed to determine the function of the anti‐MenC antibodies.ResultsNo change in values for any of the 6 components of the core set criteria for juvenile arthritis disease activity was seen after MenC vaccination. Moreover, no increase in the frequency of disease relapse was detected. Mean anti‐MenC IgG concentrations in JIA patients rose significantly within 6–12 weeks after vaccination. Of 157 patients tested, 153 were able to mount anti‐MenC IgG serum levels >2 μg/ml, including patients receiving highly immunosuppressive medication. The 4 patients with a lower anti‐MenC antibody response displayed sufficient bactericidal activity despite receiving highly immunosuppressive medication.ConclusionThe MenC conjugate vaccine does not aggravate JIA disease activity or increase relapse frequency and results in adequate antibody levels, even in patients receiving highly immunosuppressive medication. Therefore, patients with JIA can be vaccinated safely and effectively with the MenC conjugate.
Barriers in the management of glucocorticoid‐induced osteoporosis
Authors: Guzman‐Clark Jenice Ria S. , Fang Meika A. , Sehl Mary E. , Traylor Laural , Hahn Theodore J. 
Published: February 2007

AbstractObjectiveTo determine present practice for the management of glucocorticoid‐induced osteoporosis (GIOP) in veterans; to characterize provider knowledge, beliefs, and practice behaviors regarding management of GIOP; and to identify potential barriers and interventions in the management of GIOP.MethodsTo characterize current management of GIOP in an academic veterans administration medical center, we conducted a retrospective chart review of 100 patients who were prescribed a 90‐day supply of prednisone. To assess clinicians' knowledge of GIOP clinical guidelines and perceptions of GIOP management, primary care clinicians and subspecialists completed a questionnaire and participated in focus groups.ResultsChart review revealed that only 32 of 100 patients receiving long‐term glucocorticoid treatment underwent bone mineral density testing, and only 32 patients were prescribed the recommended calcium supplements. Of the 23 providers who completed the questionnaire and participated in the focus groups, 4 correctly identified both the dose and duration of glucocorticoid use at which GIOP prevention measures should be instituted. Common GIOP management barriers cited by participants were lack of knowledge, having limited time during the clinic visit to address all problems, patient nonadherence, and system problems. The most commonly mentioned potential interventions were the use of computerized clinical reminders and patient education.ConclusionClinicians frequently do not follow recommended guidelines for the management of GIOP. Improving the management of GIOP will likely require a fundamental redesigning of care processes for this disorder in order to overcome provider, patient‐related, and system barriers.
Economic impact of juvenile idiopathic arthritis
Authors: Bernatsky Sasha , Duffy Ciaran , Malleson Peter , Feldman Debbie Ehrmann , St. Pierre Yvan , Clarke Ann E. 
Published: February 2007

AbstractObjectiveJuvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) is a potentially devastating chronic pediatric disease. Although high costs have been well described in adult arthritis, little is known about the economic impact of JIA. Our objective was to describe direct medical costs for children with JIA compared with controls.MethodsConsecutive clinic attendees (n = 155) with JIA were enrolled from 2 tertiary referral pediatric centers. Outpatient clinic controls without JIA (n = 181) were recruited at the respective centers. Data on direct medical costs were obtained at 3‐month intervals. Average annualized direct medical costs were calculated, expressed in 2005 Canadian dollars.ResultsThe total difference in annualized average direct medical costs for children with JIA versus controls was $1,686 (95% confidence interval $875, $2,500). JIA subjects had substantially higher costs concerning medication use, visits to specialists and allied health care professionals, and diagnostic tests. Multiple linear regression models for the JIA sample revealed that higher active joint count was independently associated with greater total direct medical costs. Also, JIA type was a predictor of greater direct costs, with higher costs for patients with polyarthritis (rheumatoid factor positive or negative) or systemic JIA.ConclusionThe economic impact of JIA is substantial, and higher active joint count is independently associated with greater costs. This may be of particular significance given the emergence of new, costly medications for use in JIA. Insights into the relationship between disease activity and cost in JIA should assist policy makers regarding resource allocation in the setting of competing demands. Ultimately, decisions regarding access to therapies should be considered in terms of overall cost‐benefit ratios.
The systemic lupus erythematosus Tri‐Nation study: Cumulative indirect costs
Authors: Panopalis Pantelis , Petri Michelle , Manzi Susan , Isenberg David A. , Gordon Caroline , Senécal Jean‐luc , Penrod John R. , Joseph Lawrence , St. Pierre Yvan , Pineau Christian , Fortin Paul R. , Sutcliffe Nurhan , Goulet Jean‐Richard , Choquette Denis , Grodzicky Tamara , Esdaile John M. , Clarke Ann E. 
Published: February 2007

AbstractObjectiveWe previously reported that patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) in the US incurred ∼19% and 12% higher direct medical costs than patients in Canada and the UK, respectively, without experiencing superior outcomes expressed as disease damage or quality of life. In the present study, we compared cumulative indirect costs over 4 years in these patients.MethodsA total of 715 patients with SLE (269 US, 231 Canada, 215 UK) were surveyed semiannually for 4 years on employment status and time lost from labor and nonlabor market activities. Cross‐country comparisons of indirect costs were performed.ResultsIn the US, Canada, and the UK, mean 4‐year cumulative indirect costs (95% confidence interval [95% CI]) due to diminished labor market activity were $56,745 ($49,919, $63,571), $38,642 ($32,785, $44,500), and $42,213 ($35,859, $48,567), respectively, and cumulative indirect costs due to diminished nonlabor market activity were $5,249 ($2,766, $7,732), $5,455 ($3,290, $7,620), and $8,572 ($5,626, $11,518), respectively. Regression results showed that cumulative indirect costs (95% CI) due to diminished labor market activity in the US were $6,750 ($580, $12,910) greater than in Canada and $10,430 ($4,050, $16,800) greater than in the UK. Indirect costs due to diminished nonlabor market activity in the US were $280 (−$2,950, $3,520) less than in Canada and $2,010 (−$1,490, $5,510) less than in the UK, both results insignificant due to wide CIs.ConclusionDespite American patients incurring greater direct medical costs than Canadian and British patients, they do not experience superior health outcomes in terms of less productivity loss in either labor market or nonlabor market activities.