bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The tight skin 2 mouse
Authors: Christner Paul J. , Peters Josephine , Hawkins David , Siracusa Linda D. , Jiménez Sergio A. 
Published: February 2007

AbstractObjective. To describe the histopathologic and biochemical characteristics of skin from the Tsk2/ + mouse, a mutation with phenotypic features resembling those of systemic sclerosis (SSc), and to report the initial genetic mapping of the Tsk2 locus.Methods. Histologic examination was performed and collagen content and type I collagen messenger RNA (mRNA) levels were determined in skin biopsy specimens from Tsk2/+ mice and normal mice. An intersubspecific backcross was conducted as a first step toward identifying the position of the Tsk2 locus on mouse chromosome 1.Results. Histologic examination of Tsk2/+ mouse skin revealed marked accumulation of collagen and infiltration with mononuclear cells in the dermis and adipose tissue. Biochemical studies of Tsk2/+ mouse skin showed increased collagen content and elevated steady‐state levels of α1(I) procollagen mRNA. Tsk2 was mapped to a 15.3‐c entimorgan interval on mouse chromosome 1.Conclusion. Tsk2 is a novel mutation which displays histopathologic and biochemical abnormalities similar to those present in the skin of patients with SSc, including increased collagen content and expression of type I collagen genes. This mutation has been mapped to a 15.3‐c M region on mouse chromosome 1. Further study of this novel mutation will allow the identification of previously undescribed mechanisms involved in the regulation of normal and pathologic collagen gene expression.
Comparison of azathioprine, methotrexate, and the combination of the two in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Willkens Robert F. , Sharp John T. , Stablein Donald , Marks Carolly , Wortmann Robert 
Published: February 2007

AbstractObjective. To assess the relative efficacy of methotrexate (MTX), azathioprine (AZA), and their combination in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in a double‐blind, prospective, multicenter, controlled trial.Methods. Two hundred nine patients with active RA were treated with escalating doses of MTX (5–15 mg/week), AZA (50–150 mg/day), or combination (5 mg MTX/week plus 50 mg AZA/day–7.5 mg MTX/week plus 100 mg AZA/day), with opportunity to increase the dosage at 6‐w eek intervals. The patients were evaluated for significant clinical and laboratory improvement and assessed for radiologic progression at 48 weeks.Results. One hundred ten patients remained on the initial, randomly assigned therapeutic regimen. The percentage of patients who were responders, defined as those who had 30% or greater improvement in at least 3 of 4 variables, was 38% for the combination treatment, 26% for AZA, and 45% for MTX (P = 0.06). A trend toward decreased radiologic progression was seen in the MTX‐treated patients. Termination of treatment due to adverse experience occurred more frequently with combination and AZA treatments than with MTX treatment. Lack of effectiveness, adverse gastrointestinal effects, and liver enzyme elevation were the most frequent causes of treatment discontinuation.Conclusion. This study establishes that the combination of MTX and AZA in the dosages utilized is not associated with more toxicity than treatment with single agents; however, enhanced efficacy is also not seen. There is a trend toward decreased radiologic progression in patients treated with MTX.
Risk factors for septic arthritis in patients with joint disease
Authors: Kaandorp Carola J. E. , Schaardenburg Dirkjan Van , Krijnen Pieta , Habbema J. Dik F. , Van De Laar Mart A. F. J. 
Published: February 2007

AbstractObjective. To quantify potential risk factors for septic arthritis, in order to identify a basis for prevention.Methods. The occurrence of potential risk factors for septic arthritis in patients with joint diseases attending a rheumatic disease clinic was prospectively monitored at 3‐m onth intervals over a period of 3 years. Potential risk factors investigated were type of joint disease, comorbidity, medication, joint prosthesis, infections, and invasive procedures. The frequencies of risk factors in patients with and those without septic arthritis were compared using multiple logistic regression analysis.Results. There were 37 patients with and 4,870 without septic arthritis. Risk factors for developing septic arthritis were age ≥80 years (odds ratio [OR] = 3.5, 95% confidence interval [95% CI] 1.4–8.6), diabetes mellitus (OR = 3.3, 95% CI 1.1–10.1), rheumatoid arthritis (OR = 4.0, 95% CI 1.9–8.3), hip and/or knee prosthesis (OR = 15, 95% CI 4.1–54.3), joint surgery (OR = 5.1, 95% CI 2.2–11.9), and skin infection (OR = 27.2, 95% CI 7.6–97.1)Conclusion. These findings indicate that preventive measures against septic arthritis in patients with joint diseases should mainly be directed at those with joint prostheses and/or skin infection.
Dehydroepiandrosterone in systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Van Vollenhoven Ronald F. , Engleman Edgar G. , Mcguire James L. 
Published: February 2007

AbstractObjective. To determine if dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) is beneficial in the treatment of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).Methods. In a double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, randomized trial, 28 female patients with mild to moderate SLE were given DHEA 200 mg/day or placebo for 3 months. Outcomes included the SLE Disease Activity Index (SLEDAI) score, patient's and physician's overall assessments of disease activity, and concurrent corticosteroid dosages (which were adjusted as clinically indicated).Results. In the patients who were receiving DHEA, the SLEDAI score, patient's and physician's overall assessment of disease activity, and concurrent prednisone dosage decreased, while in the patients taking placebo, small increases were seen. The difference in patient's assessment between the groups was statistically significant (P = 0.022, adjusted). Lupus flares occurred more frequently in the placebo group (P = 0.053). Mild acne was a frequent side effect of DHEA.Conclusion. DHEA may be useful as a therapeutic agent for the treatment of mild to moderate SLE. Further studies of DHEA in the treatment of SLE are warranted.
Skewed distribution of IGG FC receptor iia (CD32) polymorphism is associated with renal disease in systemic lupus erythematosus patients
Authors: Duits Ashley J. , Bootsma Hendrika , Derksen Ronald H. W. M. , Spronk Peter E. , Kater Louis , Kallenberg Cees G. M. , Capel Peter J. A. , Westerdaal Nomdo A. C. , Spierenburg Gerrit T. H. , Gmelig‐Meyling Frits H. J. , Van De Winkel Jan G. J. 
Published: February 2007

AbstractObjective. Fcγ receptors of class IIa (FcγRIIa) occur in 2 allelic forms, with either a low (IIa‐R131) or a high (IIa‐H131) affinity for complexed IgG2 and IgG3. This polymorphism might have implications for the handling of immune complexes. Therefore, we determined the distribution of the Fc γRIIa allotypes in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), with or without a history of lupus nephritis.Methods. We studied 95 unrelated white European patients with SLE, as defined by the American College of Rheumatology criteria, 50 of whom had a history of lupus nephritis, and 69 healthy white European control subjects. Fc γRIIa allotypes were determined by immunophenotyping of blood monocytes.Results. It was found that lupus nephritis was significantly associated with the ‘low affinity’ FcγRIIa R/R131 allotype and with the R131 allele, compared with healthy controls. No significant association was found upon comparison of groups with and without nephritis.Conclusion. SLE patients with a history of lupus nephritis have an abnormal distribution of FcγRIIa allotypes. FcγRIIa may well play a role in the pathogenesis of lupus nephritis, since IIa‐R/R131 SLE patients seem to have a higher incidence of developing this complication.
Analysis of anti–u1 RNA antibodies in patients with connective tissue disease
Authors: Hoffman Robert W. , Sharp Gordon C. , Deutscher Susan L. 
Published: February 2007

AbstractObjective. To determine the prevalence of anti–U1 RNA antibodies in connective tissue disease (CTD) patients and evaluate immunogenetic and clinical features of patients possessing these antibodies.Methods. RNA immunoprecipitation was used to analyze patient and healthy control sera for the presence of anti–U1 RNA antibodies. Enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay and immunoblotting were used to determine small nuclear RNP (snRNP) polypeptide antibodies. HLA polymorphisms were determined by microcytotoxicity and DNA typing.Results. Anti–U1 RNA IgM and IgG antibodies were found in 60% of anti‐RNP positive patients. All of the anti–U1 RNA positive patients had anti‐7 0K, and most had anti‐A, (U1)snRNP polypeptide antibodies. HLA–DR2/DR4, as well as Raynaud's phenomenon and synovitis, were significantly increased in the anti–U1 RNA positive group.Conclusion. The presence of anti–U1 RNA anti‐bodies correlates with anti‐7 0K and anti‐A polypeptide antibodies. In addition, the anti–U1 RNA positive CTD patient group is immunogenetically and clinically distinctive from the anti–U1 RNA negative patient group.
Segregation of autoantibodies with disease in monozygotic twin pairs discordant for systemic sclerosis
Authors: Mchugh Neil J. , Harvey Georgina R. , Whyte Jean , Dorsey J. Kevin 
Published: February 2007

AbstractObjective. To study the serologic status of 3 previously unreported monozygotic twin pairs discordant for systemic sclerosis (SSc).Methods. Autoantibodies were measured by indirect immunofluorescence, immunodiffusion, and immunoprecipitation of 35S‐labeled cell lines. Major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class II allele typing and DNA fingerprinting were used to confirm monozygosity.Results. Anti–PM‐Scl, anti–threonyl transfer RNA synthetase, and anti–topoisomerase I antibodies, respectively, were found in each of the twins with SSc. None of the unaffected twin siblings had an identifiable autoantibody, although serum from 1 unaffected twin precipitated several unknown proteins. The MHC class II genotype in each twin was the genotype expected for the autoantibody that was present.Conclusion. Autoantibodies of certain defined specificities are intimately linked with the development of SSc, because they segregate with SSc in individuals who start life with identical germline genes.
Self‐administered patient questionnaire for assessing knowledge about joint arthroplasty prior to surgery
Authors: Reisine Susan , Lewis Courtland , Tibbles Lillian , Donald Mary , Rippey Robert 
Published: February 2007

AbstractThis article assesses the discriminant validity of a questionnaire designed to test patients' knowledge about total joint arthroplasty prior to preoperative educationai intervention. The method employed was to compare responses on the test by surgeons, health care workers, and patients and to evaluate whether the test could discriminate among groups. A total of 148 patients, 59 health care workers and 28 orthopedic surgeons completed the questionnaire. The results show that patients are knowledgeable about the benefits of surgery, but are in need of information about surgical risks and complications. The test was able to discriminate between surgeons and the other two groups, but there were few differences between health care workers and patients. Item analysis also demonstrates that the test is reliable. Although the test exhibits acceptable psychometric properties, a major problem in using this test in evaluating educational interventions is the relatively high average score and the potential ceiling effect that prevents measurement of further gains in knowledge. More work is needed on expanding the test to include more items where knowledge of total joint arthroplasy is limited.
Comparison of literacy level of patients in a VA arthritis center with the reading level required by educational materials
Authors: Larson Ingegerd , Schumacher H. Ralph 
Published: February 2007

AbstractLow literacy is a problem in a large segment of our population. We tested the reading levels of a group of 100 randomly chosen clinic and hospitalized patients seen in an urban Veterans Administration Arthritis and Immunology Center. The standardized Jastak Wide Range Achievement Test, revised level 2 (WRAT‐R2), was utilized to determine the reading level appropriateness of Arthritis Foundation literature for this population. Arthritis Foundation literature by our testing with the McLaughlin's SMOG grading readability formula was found to be at the 8th‐ to 13th‐grade level. Nearly 51% of our patients read below the 10th‐grade level and 31% below the 7th‐grade level. The Arthritis Foundation literature reading level may be too advanced for a significant number of our patients. These results may also have implications for other patient education literature and other written materials such as instructions on prescriptions.
Differential muscle strength decline in osteoarthritis of the knee. A developing hypothesis
Authors: Hayes Karen W. , Falconer Judith 
Published: February 2007

AbstractThe ratio of quadriceps to hamstrings muscle strength (Q/H ratio) is important for the stability of the knee and for protection from excessive stress. The purpose of this study was to explore whether the Q/H ratio is altered in patients with osteoarthritis (OA). Subjects were 43 patients with physician‐diagnosed OA of the knee (mean age, 65.61 years; SD, 12.74). Isometric knee flexor and extensor strength was measured with a hand‐held dynamometer. Both muscle groups were weak, with relatively greater weakness in the quadriceps muscles. The mean Q/H ratio of 1.43 (SD, 0.39) was below ratios reported for young healthy adults (2.0). The low Q/H ratio might be caused by the inability to correct the measurement for gravity, but a liberal estimate of gravity correction raised the ratio only to 1.71 (SD, 0.47). The low Q/H ratio was probably not caused by physiologic changes due to aging, because the correlation between the ratio and age was low (−0.04). Since the correlation of the Q/H ratio with the usual level of pain (measured by a visual analogue scale) was negative (−0.26), the low ratio might be explained by reflex inhibition due to pain associated with disease.
Effect of ultrasound on mobility in osteoarthritis of the knee. A randomized clinical trial
Authors: Falconer Judith , Hayes Karen W. , Chang Rowland W. 
Published: February 2007

AbstractUltrasound increases soft tissue extensibility and may be an effective adjunct in the treatment of knee contractures secondary to connective tissue shortening. A randomized clinical trial was conducted to determine the effectiveness of ultrasound in relieving stiffness and pain in patients (age x = 67.5 years, SD = 13.0) who had osteoarthritis (OA) and a chronic knee contracture. Subjects received 12 treatments of exercise preceded by either ultrasound (n = 34) or sham ultrasound (n = 35) and a blinded evaluation at baseline, after treatment, and 2 months after treatment. MANCOVA controlling for baseline scores showed that there were no significant differences in knee active range of motion (ROM) (goniometry) or pain (visual analogue scale) between experimental and control groups. Possible explanations for the no difference finding involve dosage issues, muscle shortening, transiency of effects, and the effects of exercise. Paired t‐tests revealed that both groups significantly improved (p < 0.05) in active ROM, pain, and gait velocity, and maintained improvement for at least 2 months. Although ultrasound may not contribute to the management of patients with chronic knee stiffness and OA, benefits of the exercise program and increased activity secondary to program participation probably influenced the overall improvement.
Joint exercises in elderly persons with symptomatic osteoarthritis of the hip or knee. Performance patterns, medical support patterns, and the relationship between exercising and medical care
Authors: Dexter Phyllis A. 
Published: February 2007

AbstractA total of 110 community‐living elderly persons with chronic hip and/or knee pain, all of whom met American College of Rheumatology classification criteria for osteoarthritis (OA), were interviewed to obtain information about their performance of therapeutic joint exercises and exercise‐related medical care. Although exercises are considered standard treatment for OA and 96% of subjects had seen a physician for the problem, fewer than half had received medical advice to exercise and very few had received thorough exercise‐related teaching and monitoring. Arthritis specialists provided significantly more support for exercising than primary care physicians. Forty percent of the total sample and 63% of those advised by a physician to exercise were making some attempt to do so; however, only 10% were exercising in a manner that might be expected to achieve maximum therapeutic benefit. Supportive medical care was highly related to frequency of exercising.
Observation of pain behavior in rheumatoid arthritis patients during physical examination. Relationship to disease activity and psychological variables
Authors: Anderson Karen O. , Bradley Laurence A. , Turner Robert A. , Agudelo Carlos A. , Pisko Edward J. , Salley Alfred N. , Fletcher Kenneth E. 
Published: February 2007

AbstractThis study examined the reliability and validity of a behavioral observation method for the assessment of arthritis pain in a clinical practice setting. Trained observers measured the occurrence of seven pain behaviors in a group of 61 rheumatoid arthritis patients undergoing physical examinations. These observations were compared with videotaped observations of the patients in a laboratory setting. Significant differences were found between the pain behavior frequencies observed during the examinations and those observed during videotaped sessions. Total pain behavior scores obtained in both settings were significantly correlated with patients' self‐reports of pain and with disease activity measures. Pain behavior observed during the exams was significantly associated with patients' self‐reports of anxiety and depression.
Validation of the NIH activity record. A quantitative measure of life activities
Authors: Gerber Lynn H. , Furst Gloria P. 
Published: February 2007

AbstractThis article reports the results of the validation of a life activity record. We devised a self‐administered daily log [the NIH Activity Record, ACTRE], for persons with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), which recorded specific daily activities over a 24‐hour period and identified the level of physical effort for each task. In addition, each activity was assigned a level of pain, fatigue, difficulty, competence, meaningful‐ness and enjoyment. Twenty‐one persons with RA completed the log. They underwent an articular examination (AI) (Ritchie Articular Index) as well as completed the following self‐reports: Psychosocial Adjustment to Illness Scale (PAIS); The Feeling Tone Checklist (FTC), a measure of fatigue; The Modified Health Assessment Questionnaire (ALL); and the Pain and Disability Index (PDI). Significant correlations were found between fatigue measured by ACTRE and FTC (p= 0.028); pain measured by ACTRE, PDI (p = 0.002), and AI (p = 0.01) and the visual analog scale in the ALI (p = 0.0002). Pain experienced while performing self‐care measured by ACTRE correlated with AI (p = 0.001) and ALI (p= 0.0013). Difficulty with self‐care activities on the ACTRE correlated with difficulty (p = 0.007) and pain (p = 0.012) on the ALI. The ACTRE is a valid measure of symptoms and perceptions that can be quantified, and is unique in that it identifies specific daily activities likely to produce them.
Effect of active hand exercise and wax bath treatment in rheumatoid arthritis patients
Authors: Dellhag Berit , Wollersjö Ingrid , Bjelle Anders 
Published: February 2007

AbstractThe effect of active hand exercise and warm wax treatment was evaluated in 52 rheumatoid arthritis patients randomized into four groups: (1) both exercise and wax bath, (2) exercise only, (3) wax bath only, and (4) controls. Treatment was given three times a week for 4 weeks. Deficits in flexion and extension in digits II–V bilaterally, grip function, grip strength, pain, and stiffness were measured before and after the treatment period. The control group was measured at corresponding times. Wax bath treatment followed by active hand exercise resulted in significant improvements of range of motion (ROM) and grip function. Active hand exercise alone reduced stiffness and pain with nonresisted motion and increased ROM. Wax bath alone had no significant effect.
Physical fitness levels in children with polyarticular juvenile rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Klepper Susan E. , Darbee Joan , Effgen Susan K. , Singsen Bernhard H. 
Published: February 2007

AbstractChildren with juvenile rheumatoid arthritis (JRA) often exhibit fatigue and prolonged exercise recovery. Improved fitness through physical conditioning has not been a goal of standard medical or physical treatment regimens for JRA, and fitness levels of children with JRA have rarely been studied. We compared physical fitness in 20 6 to 11‐year‐old patients with polyarticular JRA with sex‐, age‐, and size‐matched controls, using the Health Related Physical Fitness Test (HRPFT), a national, standardized, norm‐referenced test. We correlated fitness scores with summary joint counts, and with an articular severity index (sum of joint swelling, tenderness, pain, and limited range for each child). The results showed that children with polyarticular JRA were less physically fit than normally active (noncompetitively athletic) children of the same sex, age, and size. There was no statistically significant relationship between increased joint counts, and/or disease severity scores, and reduced fitness scores. This suggests that physical fitness levels are less related to degree of “disease activity” than is often thought. We conclude that (1) a readily available, nationally standardized fitness test can be used to assess children with JRA: and (2) fitness levels and measures of disease activity do not correlate. We believe that multiple factors, perhaps including family, physician, and school concerns about potential disease exacerbation following exercise, may account for the low fitness levels observed in children with JRA.