bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Controlling fine particle formation processes using a concentric microreactor
Authors: Nagasawa Hideharu , Tsujiuchi Tatsuya , Maki Taisuke , Mae Kazuhiro 
Published: November 2006

AbstractTo clarify the mechanism of fine‐particle formation processes in a multilamination type microreactor that proceeds mainly due to molecular‐diffusion‐induced mixing, the relation between the size and distribution, and reaction‐operation condition in experimental and numerical approaches is investigated. For experimental study, a concentric microreactor was used, and titania fine‐particle formation was examined as a model reaction. Based on the hypothesis on the fine‐particle formation mechanism, from the experimental results derived, a relatively simple calculation model was made, and validity demonstrated by showing the coincidence of the calculation results and the experimental results. Also, the calculation model was used to establish a technique for predicting the reactant concentration profiles in the microchannel, particle‐growth rate, number of formed particles, and nucleation region. Thus, the proposed analysis method will be useful as a guideline for designing microreactors to form fine particles, and will provide industrially information. © 2006 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 2007
Understanding and revamping of industrial scale SMB units for p‐xylene separation
Authors: Minceva Mirjana , Rodrigues Alírio E. 
Published: November 2006

AbstractOne of the first applications of Simulated Moving Bed (SMB) technology was in p‐xylene recovery from mixed xylenes. The three main industrial processes for p‐xylene separation from mixed xylenes based on SMB technology are: UOP's Parex, IFP's Eluxyl, and Toray's Aromax. These units operate in liquid phase (T = 180°C and P = 9 bar), achieving high recovery of almost pure p‐xylene with high on‐stream efficiency and extended adsorbent life. In this work, the industrial scale SMB process is investigated from modeling, simulation, and optimization points of view, using experimentally measured xylene adsorption equilibrium and kinetics data on ion exchanged faujasite zeolite. The aim is to develop tools for training of SMB unit operators and choice of the best operating conditions. Useful studies for better understanding of the influence of the operating parameters, adsorbent packing, and separation requirements on unit productivity are presented. SMB unit revamping strategies and operative actions are proposed. The practical application of “separation volume” methodology in the selection of optimum operating conditions that lead to maximum p‐xylene productivity with minimal desorbent consumption is described. © 2006 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 2007
Control of gradient copolymer composition in ATRP using semibatch feeding policy
Authors: Wang Rui , Luo Yingwu , Li Bo‐Geng , Zhu Shiping 
Published: November 2006

AbstractControlled/living radical copolymerization (CLRcoP) operated in a batch process is subject to composition drifting and thus produces spontaneous gradient copolymer. The composition distribution along the chain length of individual chains is solely determined by the reactivities of comonomers and the as‐synthesized product is uncontrolled. Design of the composition vs. chain length profile provides a new route for developing polymer materials with tailor‐made properties. Presented in this article is a theoretical mainframe used for the control over composition distribution along the chain length in atom transfer radical copolymerization. The control is based on a semibatch reactor technology with programmed comonomer feeding rates. Illustrated are three copolymerization model systems with representative reactivity ratios. The targeted composition distribution profiles are uniform, linear gradient, parabolic gradient, hyperbolic gradient, and di‐block and tri‐block distributions. © 2006 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 2007
Domain 1 of the urokinase‐type plasminogen activator receptor is required for its morphologic and functional, β2 integrin–mediated connection with actin cytoskeleton in human microvascular endothelial cells: Failure of association in systemic sclerosis endothelial cells
Authors: Margheri Francesca , Manetti Mirko , Serratì Simona , Nosi Daniele , Pucci Marco , Matucci‐Cerinic Marco , Kahaleh Bashar , Bazzichi Laura , Fibbi Gabriella , Ibba‐Manneschi Lidia , Rosso Mario Del 
Published: November 2006

AbstractObjectiveIn systemic sclerosis (SSc) microvascular endothelial cells (MVECs), angiogenesis is blocked by matrix metalloproteinase 12–dependent cleavage of domain 1 of the urokinase‐type plasminogen activator receptor (uPAR). Since integrins are associated with the invasive activity of uPAR in angiogenesis, this study was undertaken to show whether full‐size and truncated uPAR are differentially associated with integrins and with motor components of the cytoskeleton.MethodsSSc and normal MVECs were isolated from human skin biopsy specimens and studied by confocal laser scanning microscopy and immunoprecipitation to assess the mechanisms of association of truncated and full‐size uPAR with integrins and the actin cytoskeleton. The integrin composition of the MVECs was studied by reverse transcription–polymerasechain reaction. Cell migration and capillary morphogenesis were studied on fibrinogen substrates. Involvement of Rac and Cdc42 was evaluated by Western blotting.ResultsOnly full‐size uPAR showed a connection with the actin cytoskeleton in ECs. This connection was mediated by the uPAR‐associated αM‐ and αX‐subunits of β2 integrin, and was absent from SSc MVECs. The cleaved uPAR was not associated with β2 integrins or with actin. β3 integrins were associated with both the full‐size and cleaved uPAR at focal contacts. The uncoupling of uPAR from β2 integrins in SSc MVECs impaired the activation of Rac and Cdc42 (thus inhibiting their mediation of uPAR‐dependent cytoskeletal rearrangements and cell motility) and blocked the integrin‐engagement–delivered signals to the actin cytoskeleton. Invasion and capillary morphogenesis on fibrinogen‐coated substrates indicated that ligation of uPAR by uPA empowers the β2/β3 integrin–dependent invasion of fibrinogen, and that this system is impaired in SSc MVECs.ConclusionThe reduced angiogenic properties of SSc MVECs can be explained by the effects of uPAR truncation and the subsequent loss of the β2 integrin–mediated connection of uPAR with the actin cytoskeleton in these ECs.
“What do you expect? You're just getting older”: A comparison of perceived osteoarthritis‐related and aging‐related health experiences in middle‐ and older‐age adults
Authors: Gignac Monique A. M. , Davis Aileen M. , Hawker Gillian , Wright James G. , Mahomed Nizar , Fortin Paul R. , Badley Elizabeth M. 
Published: November 2006

AbstractObjectiveTo compare the health experiences of middle‐ and older‐age adults with moderate osteoarthritis (OA) symptoms with experiences of individuals with no chronic health conditions. Similarities and differences in health changes, the meaning of these changes, and their impact were examined.MethodsSixteen focus groups (10 OA, 6 control) were conducted with 53 women and 37 men (age 39–88 years). OA participants were recruited from practitioners' offices and The Arthritis Society, Ontario Division. Additional OA participants and controls were recruited from community centers and newspaper advertisements. All participants were asked about changes in health, the impact of these changes, and self‐management strategies. Participants also completed standardized measures including demographic information; the Short Form 36; Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index; and Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand questionnaire.ResultsDifferences in the depth, breadth, and meaning of symptoms such as pain, stiffness, and fatigue were reported with little overlap between OA and control groups. OA was often seen as part of a normal aging process requiring acceptance, not treatment. However, younger OA participants reported more distress and frustration managing the disease. OA participants reported an impact of their health on work, leisure, social activities, and relationships that was described as upsetting compared with controls.ConclusionThis study illuminates personal and social factors associated with OA by comparing health experiences of individuals with OA and controls. It highlights directions for future research that can improve our understanding of the needs of individuals with OA and can help link individuals' health status to the broader framework of their lives.
Using internet technology to deliver a home‐based physical activity intervention for patients with rheumatoid arthritis: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Van Den Berg M. H. , Ronday H. K. , Peeters A. J. , Le Cessie S. , Van Der Giesen F. J. , Breedveld F. C. , Vliet Vlieland T. P. M. 
Published: November 2006

AbstractObjectiveTo compare the effectiveness of 2 Internet‐based physical activity interventions for patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA).MethodsA total of 160 physically inactive patients with RA who had a computer with Internet access were randomly assigned to an Internet‐based physical activity program with individual guidance, a bicycle ergometer, and group contacts (individualized training [IT] group; n = 82) or to an Internet‐based program providing only general information on exercises and physical activity (general training [GT] group; n = 78). Outcome measures included quantity of physical activity (questionnaire and activity monitor), functional ability, quality of life, and disease activity (baseline, 3, 6, 9, and 12 months).ResultsThe proportion of physically active patients was significantly greater in the IT than in the GT group at 6 (38% versus 22%) and 9 months (35% versus 11%; both P < 0.05) regarding a moderate intensity level for 30 minutes in succession on at least 5 days a week, and at 6 (35% versus 13%), 9 (40% versus 14%), and 12 months (34% versus 10%; all P < 0.005) regarding a vigorous intensity level for 20 minutes in succession on at least 3 days a week. In general, there were no statistically significant differences regarding changes in physical activity as measured with an activity monitor, functional ability, quality of life, or disease activity.ConclusionAn Internet‐based physical activity intervention with individually tailored supervision, exercise equipment, and group contacts is more effective with respect to the proportion of patients who report meeting physical activity recommendations than an Internet‐based program without these additional elements in patients with RA. No differences were found regarding the total amount of physical activity measured with an activity monitor.
Comparison of efficacy of arthroscopic lavage plus administration of corticosteroids, arthroscopic lavage plus administration of placebo, and joint aspiration plus administration of corticosteroids in arthritis of the knee: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Van Oosterhout M. , Sont J. K. , Bajema I. M. , Breedveld F. C. , Van Laar J. M. 
Published: November 2006

AbstractObjectiveTo compare the efficacy of arthroscopic lavage plus administration of corticosteroids (ALC), arthroscopic lavage plus administration of placebo (ALP), and joint aspiration plus administration of corticosteroids (JAC) in knee arthritis, and to evaluate whether clinical or histologic characteristics determine outcome.MethodsPatients with knee arthritis (not due to gout, osteoarthritis, or septic arthritis) were randomized over 3 treatment arms: ALC, ALP, and JAC. The primary end point was event‐free survival, with events defined as 1) recurrence or persistence of symptomatic knee swelling necessitating local re‐treatment, or 2) nonimprovement of the knee joint score. Synovial tissue specimens were collected and analyzed histologically to identify predictive factors of responsiveness.ResultsA total of 78 patients were enrolled; 3 patients did not receive their allocated therapy and 3 were lost to followup. The median time until recurrence was 9.6 months after ALC, 3.0 months after JAC, and 1.0 month after ALP, corresponding to a relative risk (RR) of arthritis recurrence of 2.2 for JAC (95% confidence interval [95% CI] 1.2–4.2, P = 0.02) and 4.7 for ALP (95% CI 2.3–9.4, P < 0.0001) compared with ALC. A high versus low synovial extent of fibrosis conferred an RR for recurrence of 5.7 (95% CI 1.6–20.5, P < 0.01) after ALC.ConclusionArthroscopic lavage plus administration of corticosteroids was more effective than arthroscopic lavage plus administration of placebo or joint aspiration plus injection of corticosteroids. The absence of fibrosis was a histologic predictor of a beneficial response.
Prevalence of conventional and lupus‐specific risk factors for cardiovascular disease in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus: A case–control study
Authors: Bessant Rupa , Duncan Rachel , Ambler Gareth , Swanton Jo , Isenberg David A. , Gordon Caroline , Rahman Anisur 
Published: November 2006

AbstractObjectivePatients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) are significantly more likely to experience a myocardial infarction or a stroke than age‐matched controls. We compared the prevalence of conventional and lupus‐specific risk factors in patients with SLE just before a cardiovascular event and in matched controls with SLE but no cardiovascular disease (CVD).MethodsTwenty‐nine patients with SLE and CVD were enrolled. For each patient, 2 ethnically‐ and sex‐matched controls were obtained, 1 matched for age and 1 for SLE duration. Data regarding risk factors were collected for the time immediately preceding the relevant cardiovascular event, or at an equivalent time for controls.ResultsPatients' median age at event was 49 years (interquartile range 43–54 years) and mean disease duration was 12.0 ± 7.1 years. Patients with SLE and CVD were more likely than both age and duration controls to be treated for hypertension (P = 0.01 and P = 0.001, respectively) and to have elevated triglyceride levels (P = 0.05 and P = 0.01, respectively). Compared with duration controls, CVD patients were more likely to have lupus anticoagulant (P = 0.03), but less likely to be receiving treatment with hydroxychloroquine (P = 0.003). Compared with age controls, patients were more likely to be current smokers (P = 0.03), to have taken a mean dosage >7.5 mg/day of prednisolone (P = 0.04), and to have been treated with pulsed methylprednisolone (P = 0.03). In multivariable analysis, only hypertension treatment was an independent risk factor for CVD.ConclusionWe identified significantly increased prevalence of some conventional and lupus‐specific risk factors in patients with SLE immediately before a CVD event compared with controls matched for age or disease duration.
Joint laxity and the relationship between muscle strength and functional ability in patients with osteoarthritis of the knee
Authors: Van Der Esch M. , Steultjens M. , Knol D. L. , Dinant H. , Dekker J. 
Published: November 2006

AbstractObjectiveTo establish the impact of knee joint laxity on the relationship between muscle strength and functional ability in osteoarthritis (OA) of the knee.MethodsA cross‐sectional study of 86 patients with OA of the knee was conducted. Tests were performed to determine varus‐valgus laxity, muscle strength, and functional ability. Laxity was assessed using a device that measures the angular deviation of the knee in the frontal plane. Muscle strength was measured using a computer‐driven isokinetic dynamometer. Functional ability was assessed by observation (100‐meter walking test) and self report (Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index [WOMAC]). Regression analyses were performed to assess the impact of joint laxity on the relationship between muscle strength and functional ability.ResultsIn regression analyses, the interaction between muscle strength and joint laxity contributed to the variance in both walking time (P = 0.002) and WOMAC score (P = 0.080). The slope of the regression lines indicated that the relationship between muscle strength and functional ability (walking time, WOMAC) was stronger in patients with high knee joint laxity.ConclusionPatients with knee OA and high knee joint laxity show a stronger relationship between muscle strength and functional ability than patients with OA and low knee joint laxity. Patients with OA, high knee joint laxity, and low muscle strength are most at risk of being disabled.
Impact of osteoarthritis on rehabilitation for persons with hip fracture
Authors: Nguyen‐Oghalai Tracy U. , Ottenbacher Kenneth J. , Granger Carl V. , Smith Sarah Toombs , Goodwin James S. 
Published: November 2006

AbstractObjectiveTo determine the impact of osteoarthritis (OA) on length of rehabilitation stay, Functional Independence Measure (FIM Instrument) ratings at discharge and followup, functional gain, and percentage of patients discharged home.MethodsWe conducted a retrospective cohort analysis using a national registry of US medical rehabilitation inpatients. We obtained standardized data for all patients admitted after a hip fracture between 1994 and 2001. Our primary analytical method was multiple regression analysis. Outcome variables were length of stay, FIM Instrument ratings at discharge and followup, functional gain, and percentage of patients discharged home. The predictor variable was the presence of OA. Covariates were age, sex, race/ethnicity, other comorbidity, admission FIM ratings, total hip replacement, and time to followup.ResultsWe studied 1,953 patients with OA and 11,441 patients without OA admitted to inpatient rehabilitation facilities after hip fracture. Mean ± SD length of stay for patients with OA was 18.1 ± 10.0 days versus 16.5 ± 8.9 days for those without OA (P < 0.01). After adjusting for age, sex, race/ethnicity, comorbidity, admission FIM ratings, and total hip replacement, OA was associated with a longer rehabilitation stay (1.4 days; P < 0.01) and slightly higher discharge FIM ratings; however, OA was not associated with lower weekly rehabilitation gain, followup FIM ratings, and percentage discharged home.ConclusionPersons with hip fracture and OA had longer inpatient rehabilitation length of stay than persons without OA, but there were similarities in weekly rehabilitation gain and percentage discharged home.
Muscle strength, functional performance, and self‐reported outcomes four years after arthroscopic partial meniscectomy in middle‐aged patients
Authors: Ericsson Ylva B. , Roos Ewa M. , Dahlberg Leif 
Published: November 2006

AbstractObjectiveTo examine thigh muscle strength, functional performance, and self‐reported outcome in patients with nontraumatic meniscus tears 4 years after operation, and to study the impact of a strength deficit on self‐reported outcome and evaluate the feasibility of 3 performance tests in this patient group.MethodsThe study group comprised 45 patients (36% women, mean age 46.7) who had an arthroscopic partial meniscectomy a mean of 4 years (range 1–6 years) previously. Main outcome measures included isokinetic strength of knee extensors and flexors, functional performance (1‐leg hop, 1‐leg rising, and square‐hop tests), and a self‐reported questionnaire (Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score).ResultsWe found lower knee extensor strength and worse 1‐leg rising capacity in the operated leg, but no difference between operated and nonoperated leg for knee flexors (P≤ 0.004 andP> 0.3, respectively). Patients with a stronger quadriceps of the operated leg compared with the nonoperated leg had less pain and better function and quality of life (r = 0.4–0.6,P≤ 0.010). We found the 1‐leg rising and 1‐leg hop tests to be suitable performance tests in middle‐aged meniscectomy patients.ConclusionQuadriceps strength is reduced in the meniscectomized leg compared with the nonoperated leg 4 years after surgery. This relative quadriceps weakness significantly affects objective and self‐reported knee function, pain, and quality of life, indicating the importance of restoring muscle function after meniscectomy in middle‐aged patients.
Availability of pediatric rheumatology training in United States pediatric residencies
Authors: Mayer Michelle L. , Brogan Laura , Sandborg Christy I. 
Published: November 2006

AbstractObjectiveTo characterize the availability of pediatric rheumatology training in general pediatric residencies.MethodsWe surveyed 195 pediatric residency program directors in the US using a combined Web‐based and paper‐based survey format. The survey asked directors about the availability of an on‐site pediatric rheumatologist in their institution, the availability of formal pediatric rheumatology rotations, and the types of physicians involved in teaching curriculum components related to pediatric rheumatology. Survey responses were analyzed using descriptive and bivariate statistics.ResultsOf the 195 program directors surveyed, 127 (65%) responded. More than 40% of responding programs did not have a pediatric rheumatologist on site. Programs with on‐site pediatric rheumatologists were significantly more likely than those without on‐site pediatric rheumatologists to have an on‐site pediatric rheumatology rotation available (94% versus 9%; P < 0.001). Although pediatric rheumatologists' involvement in 4 curriculum areas relevant to pediatric rheumatology is nearly universal in programs with on‐site pediatric rheumatologists, nearly two‐thirds of programs without on‐site pediatric rheumatologists rely on internist rheumatologists, general pediatricians, or other physicians to cover these areas.ConclusionPrograms without pediatric rheumatologists on site are less likely to have pediatric rheumatology rotations and are more likely to rely on internist rheumatologists and nonrheumatologists to address rheumatology‐related curriculum components. Lack of exposure to pediatric rheumatology during residency may impede general pediatricians' ability to identify and treat children with rheumatic diseases, undermine resident interest in this field, and perpetuate low levels of supply.
Osteoporosis management in patients with rheumatoid arthritis: Evidence for improvement
Authors: Solomon Daniel H. , Katz Jeffrey N. , Cabral Danielle , Patrick Amanda R. , Bukowski Jack F. , Coblyn Jonathan S. 
Published: November 2006

AbstractObjectiveOsteoporosis in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is increasingly recognized as a major comorbidity. We examined past management patterns for glucocorticoid‐induced osteoporosis and attempted to improve care through an educational intervention. The goal was to examine the frequency of osteoporosis management in patients with RA treated at a large academic rheumatology practice.MethodsWe performed a structured chart review on randomly selected patients seen during 2004 for RA. Osteoporosis management was defined as a bone mineral density test or receipt of a medication for osteoporosis in the prior 24 months. The frequency of osteoporosis management among our study group was assessed. We also examined how glucocorticoid dosage affected osteoporosis management in adjusted models.ResultsWe reviewed the records for 193 patients, 99 had not used glucocorticoids in the prior 24 months, and 94 had used them. Of the total study population, 48% had received a bone mineral density test or medication for osteoporosis. Some form of osteoporosis management was present for 64% of patients taking ≥5 mg prednisone for ≥3 months compared with 38% for patients taking none (P = 0.002). Predictors of osteoporosis management included older age, female sex, glucocorticoid dosage, and prior osteoporosis diagnosis or fracture.ConclusionThe frequency of osteoporosis management appears to have increased compared with a prior chart review.