bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Numerical Simulation of Hypervelocity Impact FEM-SPH Algorithm Based on Large Deformation of Material
Authors: Yang Aimin , Li Jinze , Qu Hengheng , Pan Yuhang , Kang Yanhong , Zhang Yuzhu
Published: October 2016

In this paper, we first discuss the research status and application progress of the finite element method and the smoothed particle method. By analyzing the advantages of the smoothed particle method and the finite element method, a new coupling algorithm, namely FEM-SPH algorithm, is proposed. By the method of comparison, it shows that finite element method and SPH method in the simulation of large deformation problems each have advantages and disadvantages, the finite element method smoothed particle coupling algorithm is effective to achieve the performance of high computational efficiency and can naturally simulate large deformation problems across. In the process of calculation, the large deformation unit can be freely into an algorithm to facilitate the calculation accuracy and efficiency of three methods of numerical simulation. Through the study found, FEM-SPH algorithm not only overcome the defect of smooth particle tensile instability, but also overcomes the problem of low efficiency of finite element computation. To further test the FEM-SPH algorithm has advantages in the practical engineering, we have carried out the actual test to the example of the super high speed collision, concluded that, since the target of most of the computational domain is always finite element, smoothed particle focused only in contact with the projectile and target of local area, particle number is not much, the whole calculation process just ten minutes, computational efficiency has been greatly improved, at the same time in the simulation of large deformation, the advantage is very obvious .This provides a criterion for the actual project, depending on the specific material deformation mode and choose a more appropriate conversion algorithm.
Local Electrical Response in Alkaline-Doped Electrodeposited CuInSe2/Cu Films
Authors: Arvizu-Rodríguez Liliana E. , Barón-Miranda Javier A. , Calzadilla Octavio , Fernandez-Muñoz Jose L. , Guarneros-Aguilar Cesia , Chalé-Lara Fabio F. , Páramo-García Ulises , Caballero-Briones Felipe
Published: October 2016

The local electrical response in alkaline-doped CuInSe2 films prepared by single step electrodeposition onto Cu substrates was studied by current sensing atomic force microscopy. The CIS films were prepared from single baths containing the dopant ions (Li, Na, K or Cs) and were studied by X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy and photocurrent response. Increased crystallinity and surface texturing as the ion size increases was observed as well as enhanced photocurrent response in Cs doped CIS. Li and Na doped films have larger conductivity than the undoped film while the K and Cs doped samples display shorter currents and the current images indicate strong charge accumulation in the K and Cs doped films forming surface capacitors. Corrected CAFM IV curves were adjusted with Shockley equation.
The Behavior of Arsenic during the Thermal and Chemical Decomposition of the Ammonium–Arsenic Jarosite
Authors: Flores Mizraim , Patiño Francisco , Palacios Elia G. , Reyes Iván , Reyes Martín , Flores Victor H. , Juárez Julio C. , Pandiyan Thangarasu
Published: October 2016

Arsenic, an element of environmental impact, can be incorporated into jarosite–type compounds and remain stabilised within the structure under a wide range of environmental conditions. In this study, a sample of ammonium–arsenic jarosite was synthesised by precipitation in sulphate medium at controlled pH of 1.2–1.8. The behaviour of arsenic during the thermal and chemical decomposition of jarosite was analysed; the degradation in alkaline medium of jarosite was also studied. According to the results, the synthesised jarosite is composed of joined rhombohedral crystals, forming tightly spherical shaped particles, 37–54 μm size. The ammonium jarosite produced possessed a high arsenic concentration; its calculated stoichiometry being (NH4)Fe2.45[(SO4)1.80(AsO4)0.20][(OH)4.15(H20)1.85]. It was found that arsenic is stabilised in the jarosite structure; upon heating, it remains in residual solids above 700°C, whilst in alkaline medium an incongruent dissolution takes place, with the arsenic retained in the solid phase along with iron. These solids, when exposed to high temperatures (1200°C), transform into a type of iron oxide known as hematite, so with arsenic it is retained an iron compound forming a stable compound which withstands high temperatures.
A collaborative study to establish the 6th national standard for anti-Rabies Immunogloblin in China
Authors: Shi Leitai , Cao Shouchun , Wu Xiaohong , Li Jia , Wang Yunpeng , Yu Yongxin , Li Yuhua
Published: October 2016

The 6th National Standard for anti-Rabies Immunoglobulin in China was calibrated by means of two assay methods, the mouse neutralization test(MNT)-a rabies virus neutralization test in mice and the rapid fluorescent focus inhibition test-a neutralization test in cell culture.The calibration was made as an national collaborative assay comprising ten laboratories in China.The results obtained in this study illustrate the differences between  the two methods,could not be generally confirmed. Based on the calibration results obtained against the 2nd International Standard for anti-Rabies Immunoglobulin ,the 6th National Standard for Anti-rabies  immunoglobulin with a defined unitage of 37.0 International Units of rabies antiboides  in each ampoule.
A descriptive retrospective study on children with newly diagnosed nephrotic syndrome presented to Tripoli Children Hospital during the period between Jan. to Dec. 2014
Authors: Rhuma Naziha Ramadan , El Boeshi Awatif S , Sabei Laila T , Kara Azza M
Published: October 2016

Introduction: Nephrotic syndrome is a clinical picture characterized by severe proteinuria, hypoalbuminemia, edema and hypercholesterolemia. A retrospective study was carried out in order to describe disease pattern in newly diagnosed nephrotic syndrome of children admitted to Tripoli children hospital during the year 2014.Methods: The medical data of 56 patients aged between 1 year and 11 years diagnosed with idiopathic nephrotic syndrome were analysed using SPSS software. The data included gender differences, sensitivity to steroid therapy, relapses during six months of follow up and the effect of variable factors such as family history, hypertension, hematuria, serum urea on the degree of relapse.Results: Out of 56 patients with newly diagnosed nephrotic syndrome (NS), 60.7% were boys and 39.3% were girls, with a mean age 4.2±2.2 years. Age  was related significantly to the response to steroid therapy, where 79.5% of patients aged between 2-8 years (group 1) had steroid sensitive nephrotic syndrome (SSNS) compared with only 41.7% of patients aged less than 2 years or more than 8 years (group 2)  (P<0.001).  Although girls relapsed more than boys (70.5% versus 57.1%) during six months of therapy, this difference was not statistically significant. Similarly, no other factors measured such as family history of NS, hypertension, hematuria, serum complement and urea had any effect on the percentage of relapse in patients with newly diagnosed NS.  Conclusion: NS is one of the commonest reasons for admission to nephrology ward. It is more common in boys than girls. The age at presentation related significantly to the response to steroidal therapy. Regarding relapses, girls seems to relapse more frequent than boys and relapses was seen more in age group 1 than group 2, however, these differences were not significant. Other factors studied seems to have no effect on the relapse rate of children with newly diagnosed NS.Key-words: Idiopathic nephrotic syndrome, Steroid sensitive nephrotic syndrome, Steroid resistant nephrotic syndrome, Proteinuria.
Studies and evaluation of compressed microspheres
Authors: El-Mahdi Idris M. , Madi Atef M.
Published: October 2016

This work was aimed at the use of dissolution testing and similarity factor to assess the level of damage taken by active drug microspheres during compression in tablet dosage form. To achieve that, combinations of suitable excipients were used to protect drug microspheres during compression. The excipients were used in the form of powders, granules or placebo pellets prepared by extrusion-spheronization technology. The excipients were evaluated alone, in combinations and post-compression into compacts. Preliminary experiments included assessing density, hardness, friability and disintegration of all the selected excipients. Based on such experiments it was found that the flowability of combination of powders was more acceptable than individual excipients. Two combinations of microcrystalline -starch and microcrystalline cellulose -calcium carbonate granules were selected to be compressed with pellets of the active pharmaceutical ingredient ketoprofen. In all the combinations used there was a significant amount of damage to drug pellets. The kinetics of drug release appears to follow the zero-order rate, which remained unchanged even when a significant degree of damage to pellets occurs. It was found that a high level of excipients is required in order to prepare microspheres as a rapid disintegrating tablet.
Beta-adrenergic receptor blockers effects on the antinociceptive action of imipramine against thermal induced pain in albino mice
Authors: Zawia H A , Blaou F A , Elhwuegi A S
Published: October 2016

Introduction: Tricyclic antidepressant have been shown to be effective in treatment of pain of varying etiology, monoaminergic system seems to be implicated in this phenomena. This research examines the role of beta-adrenergic receptor blockers on the antinociceptive effect of imipramine in albino mice using thermal model of pain.

Methods: Different groups of five animals each were injected intraperitoneal by different doses of imipramine only (2.5, 7.5,15, 30 mg/kg), atenolol (2 mg/kg), propranolol (6mg/kg), or the combination of the different doses of imipramine with the fixed dose of atenolol or propranolol. The degree of analgesia was measured as an increase in reaction time to pain in the hot plate one hour after drugs injections.

Results: Imipramine produced dose dependent increase in reaction time from 129% with the lowest dose to 196% with the highest dose. One-way ANOVA analysis has shown that the addition of a fixed dose of propranolol antagonized significantly the increase in reaction time to 75% with the lowest dose and 118.9% with the highest dose of imipramine. On the other hand, atenolol failed to antagonize significantly the increase in reaction time induced by imipramine.

Conclusion: Imipramine has a significant analgesic effect on albino mice in the hot plate test. The antinociceptive action of imipramine seems to be of central origin and possibly mediated, at least in part, by beta adrenergic receptors, as this analgesic effect can be blocked by propranolol, a centrally acting non-selective beta adrenergic receptor antagonist, but not with atenolol which blocks only the peripheral beta receptors.
Higher education in Libya: Challenges and future plans (in Arabic language)
Authors: El-Fakhri Mustafa M. , Bukhatwa Salma A.
Published: October 2016

Educational institutions are the principle pillars for establishment of sustainable human development which leads to community progress. Therefore, it is essentially important to develop their infrastructure, programs, and financial resources and assure the quality of their outcome to effectively respond and fulfill community needs.

With current unprecedented scientific advancement in all aspects of life, it is becoming a formidable task to stay internationally competent. Continuous development and improving educational programs are therefore a must. The future requirements of education are choosing quality over quantity and adopting modern, reliable teaching methods in order to acquire knowledge, develop skills and attitudes that comply with good professional practice to meet the challenge of globalization.

Education in Libya is free for everyone from elementary school up to university level but the general decline in the quality of Libyan higher educational system within the last four decades is well recognized. The efficiency of its product has been proven to be inconsistent with the national economical and developmental needs.

Internal challenges of the higher educational system in Libya that affecting its own performance are presented in this paper, even though this does not under estimate the effect of other external threats, but they just remain beyond the scope of this paper.

These challenges include; lack of a national strategic plan, poor primary and secondary school output, excessive students' admission, structural problems, poor infrastructure, administrative and legal problems, poor academic staff performance, outdated curricula and teaching methods, poor financial resources, poor research and postgraduate programs.

Inevitably, the first step in treatment of such situation is to adopt a national strategy for higher education to know where we stand and to decide where to go and how to reach there. This of course in addition to linking educational programs to local, national and international market needs and promoting investment in education.
Laparoscopic Transabdominal Preperitoneal Hernia Repair. Early experience of 37 patients
Authors: Abuzalout Tawfik A. , Taktuk Salah S.
Published: October 2016

Introduction: Inguinal hernia repair is one of the most frequently performed procedures in surgery and many different techniques have been suggested. This report reviews our experience with 39 transabdominal preperitoneal (TAPP) hernia repairs in 37 patients.

Methods: Thirty-seven patients have been admitted for inguinal hernia repair in Benghazi Medical Center and in Aljala hospital, Benghazi-Libya. Laparoscopic TAPP repair was considered for all reducible inguinal hernias aged (18–70 years). Data was prospectively collected from January 2009 to December 2013,including age, sex, BMI, hernia characteristics, complications, mean operative time and mean hospital stay. Patients with irreducible, obstructed or scrotal hernias, previous lower abdominal surgery, BMI more than thirty fiveand an American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) grade higher than II were excluded.

Results: There were 34 males and 3 females, with a mean age of 33.4 ± 13.0 years and BMI of 24.6 ± 1.9. Mean operative time was 75 ± 18.6 minutes .The mean hospital stay was one day ± 0.27. There was no conversion, mesh infection, bladder or vascular injury, death or recurrence after a median follow up for six months. Four minor complications occurred with two seroma formation, one wound bruising and one chronic groin pain due to tackers treated conservatively. Median return to normal activities was 10 days. One fourth of patients required no postoperative analgesia.

Conclusion: Laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair was found in our study to be feasible, safe, with less postoperative pain, shorter hospital stay, and early return to normal activities.
A descriptive retrospective study on children with newly diagnosed nephrotic syndrome presented to Tripoli Children Hospital during the period between Jan. to Dec. 2014
Authors: Rhuma N R , El Boeshi A S , Sabei L T , Kara A M
Published: October 2016

Introduction: Nephrotic syndrome (NS) is a clinical picture characterized by severe proteinuria, hypoalbuminemia, edema and hypercholesterolemia. A retrospective study was carried out in order to describe disease pattern in newly diagnosed NS of children admitted to Tripoli children hospital during the year 2014.

Methods: The medical data of 56 patients aged between 1 year and 11 years diagnosed with idiopathic nephrotic syndrome were analysed using SPSS software. The data included gender differences, sensitivity to steroid therapy, relapses withen six months of follow up and the effect of variable factors such as family history, hypertension, hematuria, serum urea on the degree of relapse.

Results: Out of 56 patients with newly diagnosed NS, 60.7% were boys and 39.3% were girls, with a mean age 4.2±2.2 years. Age was related significantly to the response to steroid therapy, where 79.5% of patients aged between 2-8 years (group 1) had steroid sensitive NS (SSNS) compared with only 41.7% of patients aged less than 2 years or more than 8 years (group 2) (P<0.001). Although girls relapsed more than boys (70.5% versus 57.1%) during six months of therapy, this difference was not statistically significant. Similarly, no other factors measured such as family history of NS, hypertension, hematuria, serum complement and urea had any effect on the percentage of relapse in patients with newly diagnosed NS.

Conclusion: NS is one of the commonest reasons for admission to nephrology ward. It is more common in boys than girls. The age at presentation related significantly to the response to steroidal therapy. Regarding relapses, girls seems to relapse more frequent than boys and relapses was seen more in age group 1 than group 2, however, these differences were not significant. Other factors studied seems to have no effect on the relapse rate of children with newly diagnosed NS.
Removal of aluminium and iron from surface water by conventional water treatment
Authors: Arendze S. , Sibiya M. S.
Published: October 2016

Detailed source water monitoring showed large variations in the total concentrations of aluminium and iron in the Vaal Dam, South Africa, which were highlighted as a specific concern for one of the largest drinking water treatment plants in South Africa. This study aimed to better understand the presence of these metals in the source water, removal of these metals through the conventional treatment process, and final water quality trends, for the period 2008 to 2014. Aluminium and iron concentrations were highly variable and showed significant influence on colour and turbidity in source water. Sedimentation performed well, and removed over 70% of the metal concentration from the raw water. Filtration removed 15% of the remaining aluminium and iron concentrations. The pH and turbidity of the final water had minor effects on the metal concentration in the final water. The conventional treatment process was shown to be capable of removing aluminium and iron from the source water as both were within water quality limits in the final water. This study highlighted the importance of source water quality monitoring and treatment plant efficacy in evaluating whether the current treatment technology is appropriate for current and future challenges.
Freeze–melting process significantly decreases phthalate ester plasticizer levels in drinking water stored in polyethylene terephthalate (PET) bottles
Authors: Pourzamani Hamidreza , Falahati Majid , Rastegari Forouz , Ebrahim Karim
Published: October 2016

Bottled water consumption has increased significantly in recent decades. Eighty percent of bottled water is sold in plastic containers usually made from polyethylene terephthalate (PET). Trace leaching of phthalate esters (PEs) from these bottles into the water and their effects on human health has become a serious concern. In this study, the effects of freezing on the release of PEs from PET bottles have been investigated. Four common PEs were determined in bottled water samples before and after freezing–remelting by a dispersive liquid–liquid micro-extraction method and gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC/MS) analysis. PE levels after freezing–remelting of samples were significantly lower than before (mean ± SD = 0.71 ± 0.28 and 0.33 ± 0.003 ppb, respectively). Electrical conductivity (EC) also decreased after freezing–remelting of the water (mean ± SD = 260.2 ± 80.6 and 130.6 ± 17.4 μs/cm, respectively). Significant correlation has been detected between reduction in water EC and elimination of PEs from water. Dissolved minerals and contaminants in water concentrate and conglomerate in the center of the ice during the freezing process and form white sediments mainly of calcium bicarbonate after remelting of the water. It seems that calcium bicarbonate effectively adsorbs PEs and traps them in its structures. These sediments do not have significant gastrointestinal absorption and cannot pose health consequences. The freezing–remelting process could be introduced as an effective procedure for water treatment.
Development of downflow hanging sponge (DHS) reactor as post treatment of existing combined anaerobic tank treating natural rubber processing wastewater
Authors: Watari Takahiro , Cuong Mai Trung , Tanikawa Daisuke , Hirakata Yuga , Hatamoto Masashi , Syutsubo Kazuaki , Fukuda Masao , Nguyen Ngoc Bich , Yamaguchi Takashi
Published: October 2016

Conventional aerated tank technology is widely applied for post treatment of natural rubber processing wastewater in Southeast Asia; however, a long hydraulic retention time (HRT) is required and the effluent standards are exceeded. In this study, a downflow hanging sponge (DHS) reactor was installed as post treatment of anaerobic tank effluent in a natural rubber factory in South Vietnam and the process performance was evaluated. The DHS reactor demonstrated removal efficiencies of 64.2 ± 7.5% and 55.3 ± 19.2% for total chemical oxygen demand (COD) and total nitrogen, respectively, with an organic loading rate of 0.97 ± 0.03 kg-COD m−3 day−1 and a nitrogen loading rate of 0.57 ± 0.21 kg-N m−3 day−1. 16S rRNA gene sequencing analysis of the sludge retained in the DHS also corresponded to the result of reactor performance, and both nitrifying and denitrifying bacteria were detected in the sponge carrier. In addition, anammox bacteria was found in the retained sludge. The DHS reactor reduced the HRT of 30 days to 4.8 h compared with the existing algal tank. This result indicates that the DHS reactor could be an appropriate post treatment for the existing anaerobic tank for natural rubber processing wastewater treatment.
Hurdles in the investigation of influent fractionation for measurement campaigns under diluted wastewater conditions
Authors: Amerlinck Youri , Vanassche Ellen , Versluys Hélène , Nopens Ingmar
Published: October 2016

Evaluating the performance of a wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) requires a good characterization of the biodegradable substrate entering the plant. As is generally acknowledged, the wastewater characteristics under rain or storm weather conditions vary significantly from dry weather conditions but this is rarely accounted for in modelling exercises. In order to address this defect, a measurement campaign was set up and samples were analysed using respirometric assays. In this paper, some hurdles regarding measurement campaigns under dilute wastewater conditions and a better exploration of the impact of using respirometric assays are described and discussed. The dependence of the heterotrophic yield on different substrates severely hampers the evaluation of the respirograms under dilute wastewater conditions. In addition, the low load conditions limit the application of the assays due to insufficient sensitivity of the experiment and uncontrolled oxygen inputs. The results clearly demonstrate the need for further research in order to allow for a proper evaluation of WWTP performance under rain and storm weather conditions.
Ammonia removal from landfill leachate by struvite formation: an alarming concentration of phosphorus in the treated effluent
Authors: Tonetti Adriano Luiz , de Camargo Cristal Coser , Guimarães José Roberto
Published: October 2016

This study examined the removal of ammonia nitrogen from the leachate of a landfill site using the chemical precipitation of struvite (MgNH4PO4.6H2O). This procedure achieved a reduction in the ammonia concentration that was higher than 99% when the molar ratio of 1.8:1.0:1.4 for Mg2+:NH4+:PO43− was adopted. The metal concentration found in the precipitate formed was lower than the limits set by Brazilian and American regulations (CONAMA 375/2006 and US EPA, 40 CFR 503.1993). This demonstrates the potential use for this practice in agriculture. However, the effluent obtained from the tests presented a phosphorus concentration higher than the one in the raw leachate. This shows that removing this compound from the effluent must be further studied. Otherwise, adopting the chemical precipitation of ammonia by the formation of struvite may become unfeasible.
Optimizing Signal Behavior of Femtocells for Improved Network
Authors: Joseph Meera , Akindeji Akinlabi Olaniyi
Published: October 2016

The high demand for network coverage in an indoor setting brought about the acceptance of femtocell technology as a solution using the backhaul connectivity in the existing network. The quality of signal, voice calling, Internet, security and data are improved through the use femtocell at the indoor environment. Here the service provider attempts to reduce their operation cost by presenting self-organizing mechanisms for optimization of the network. The remarkable part is that, femtocells improves coverage, enhances the data rate at the indoor environment. Therefore, the challenges of the femtocell also known as interference deteriorates the capacity and quality performance of the whole cellular network. In this paper we simulate the bit error rate against signal behaviour at the indoor environment and we also simulate the transmitting power over signal for both macrocells and femtocells. We focus on the transmitting power that might cause interference within the cellular network.
An Intersemiotic Analysis of Pictures in Translated and Non-Translated Children’s Literature
Authors: Saeedipour Abbas , Sharif Nasrin Qorbani
Published: October 2016

Illustrations in books play a significant role in the development of the story by re-narrating the story which is also presented in linguistic forms (words). This process is a type of translation (intersemiotic) as proposed by Jacobson (2000). Also words being accompanied by illustrations help children to better involve in and understand the story. Therefore it is necessary to pay close attention to the illustrations and the relationships they hold with the linguistic texts of the story. There seems to be differences between English and Persian children’s story books in terms of illustrations. The study and investigation of the importance as well as strengths/weaknesses of illustrations in original Persian stories for children can help writer develop better strategies to organize their stories in both linguistic forms and illustrations. In the present study a number of translated and original Persian children story books were collected. All the books have illustrations which accompany the texts of the books. Then all the texts were study carefully, analyzed and compared with their accompanying pictures (or illustrations). Each picture was analyzed based on its relationship with the corresponding text. The results of the study revealed that there are significant differences in illustrations in translated and non-translated children story books.
Health Sector Response to HIV in the SAARC Region
Authors: Verma Sharat Chandra
Published: October 2016

Not Available.SAARC Journal of Tuberculosis, Lung Diseases and HIV/AIDS Vol. 12(1) 2015
On Practical Implementation of Electromagnetic Models of Lightning Return-Strokes
Authors: Karami Hamidreza , Rachidi Farhad , Rubinstein Marcos
Published: October 2016

In electromagnetic models, the return-stroke channel is represented as an antenna excited at its base by either a voltage or a current source. To adjust the speed of the current pulse propagating in the channel to available optical observations, different representations for the return-stroke channel have been proposed in the literature using different techniques to artificially reduce the propagation speed of the current pulse to values consistent with observations. In this paper, we present an analysis of the available electromagnetic models in terms of their practical implementation. Criteria used for the analysis are the ease of implementation of the models, the numerical accuracy and the needed computer resources, as well as their ability to reproduce a desired value for the speed of the return stroke current pulse. Using the CST-MWS software, which is based on the time-domain finite-integration technique, different electromagnetic models were analyzed, namely (A) a wire embedded in a fictitious half-space dielectric medium (other than air), (B) a wire embedded in a fictitious coating with permittivity (εr) and permeability (μr), and (C) a wire in free-space loaded by distributed series inductance and resistance. It is shown that, by adjusting the parameters of each model, it is possible to reproduce a desired value for the speed of the current pulse. For each of the considered models, we determined the values for the adjustable parameters that allow obtaining the desired value of the return speed. Model A is the least expensive in terms of computing resources. However, it requires two simulation runs to obtain the electromagnetic fields. A variant of Model B that includes a fictitious dielectric/ferromagnetic coating is found to be more efficient to control the current speed along the channel than using only a dielectric coating. On the other hand, this model requires an increased number of mesh cells, resulting in higher memory and computational time. The presence of an inhomogeneous medium generates, in addition, unphysical fluctuations on the resulting current distributions. These fluctuations, which strongly depend on the size of the coating as well as on its electric and magnetic properties, can be attenuated by considering conductive losses in the coating. Considering the efficiency in terms of the required computer resources and ease of implementation, we recommend the use of Model C (wire loaded by distributed inductance and resistance).
Phytocystatins: Defense Proteins against Phytophagous Insects and Acari
Authors: Martinez Manuel , Santamaria Maria , Diaz-Mendoza Mercedes , Arnaiz Ana , Carrillo Laura , Ortego Felix , Diaz Isabel
Published: October 2016

This review deals with phytocystatins, focussing on their potential role as defence proteins against phytophagous arthropods. Information about the evolutionary, molecular and biochemical features and inhibitory properties of phytocystatins are presented. Cystatin ability to inhibit heterologous cysteine protease activities is commented on as well as some approaches of tailoring cystatin specificity to enhance their defence function towards pests. A general landscape on the digestive proteases of phytophagous insects and acari and the remarkable plasticity of their digestive physiology after feeding on cystatins are highlighted. Biotechnological approaches to produce recombinant cystatins to be added to artificial diets or to be sprayed as insecticide–acaricide compounds and the of use cystatins as transgenes are discussed. Multiple examples and applications are included to end with some conclusions and future perspectives.
Quantification of Bone Marrow Edema by Magnetic Resonance Imaging Only Marginally Reflects Clinical Neck Pain Evaluation in Rheumatoid Arthritis and Ankylosing Spondylitis
Authors: Baraliakos Xenofon , Heldmann Frank , Callhoff Johanna , Suppiah Ravi , McQueen Fiona Marion , Krause Dietmar , Klink Claudia , Schmitz-Bortz Elmar , Igelmann Manfred , Kalthoff Ludwig , Kiltz Uta , Schmuedderich Anna , Braun Juergen
Published: October 2016

Objective.

Neck pain is common in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and ankylosing spondylitis (AS). We investigated the correlation of bone marrow edema (BME) on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in RA and AS and its association with clinical complaints of neck pain.

Methods.

Cervical spine short-tau inversion recovery-MRI and T1w-MRI of 34 patients with RA and 6 patients with AS complaining about neck pain were obtained. Clinical and laboratory data were available. BME was scored by 2 blinded readers using a modification of a published score, including various cervical sites. Degenerative changes were also quantified.

Results.

Patients were predominantly women (82.5%), and mean ± SD age was 57.5 ± 11.8 years, C-reactive protein (CRP) was 0.8 ± 1.3 mg/dl, and pain score was 46.0 ± 17.5. BME was detected in 24/40 patients (60%) involving the atlantoaxial region (21%), vertebral bodies (75%), facet joints (29%), and spinous processes (46%). Degenerative changes were identified in 21/40 patients (52.5%), 13 (62%) of whom also had BME in vertebral bodies. No differences were found between patients with versus without cervical BME for clinical assessments: numeric rating scale pain (median ± interquartile range) 5.5 ± 3.0 vs 6.0 ± 4.0 (p = 0.69), Funktionsfragebogen Hannover 68.2 ± 41.0 vs 42.0 ± 55.5 (p = 0.19), Northwick pain score 44.4 ± 21.8 vs 47.2 ± 27.0 (p = 0.83), or CRP 0.40 ± 0.80 vs 0.60 ± 0.66 (p = 0.94). For patients with degenerative changes, symptom duration was longer than for patients without (10 ± 12.5 vs 5.0 ± 18.0 yrs, p = 0.73).

Conclusion.

In this small study of patients with RA and AS complaining about neck pain, BME was found in many different cervical sites, including the facet joints and the spinous processes. However, the occurrence and severity of BME did not correlate with the severity of neck pain.
Success Rate and Utility of Ultrasound-guided Synovial Biopsies in Clinical Practice
Authors: Najm Aurélie , Orr Carl , Heymann Marie-Françoise , Bart Géraldine , Veale Douglas J. , Le Goff Benoît
Published: October 2016

Objective.

The utility of synovial biopsy in increasing our understanding of the pathogenesis of inflammatory arthropathies, as well as in evaluating treatments, is well established. Ultrasound (US) allows synovial assessment and therefore assists in biopsying synovial tissue in a safe and well-tolerated manner. This study’s objectives were to (1) determine the rate of success in retrieving synovial tissue using US guidance, (2) describe the indications for US-guided synovial biopsies in the clinical setting, (3) determine how frequently the synovial biopsy can lead to a clear diagnosis, and (4) assess the quality of the synovial tissue obtained using this technique.

Methods.

Synovial biopsies of small and large joints were performed under US guidance between February 2007 and December 2014 using a semiautomatic core biopsy needle. The biopsy procedure was considered successful if synovial tissue was found at histological examination.

Results.

Seventy-four patients with undifferentiated arthritis underwent 76 synovial biopsies. The success rate in retrieving synovial tissue was 81.6% (62/76). One patient taking acetyl salicylic acid at 75 mg at the time of the biopsy presented with hemarthrosis 48 h after the procedure, which resolved following simple arthrocentesis. A definitive diagnosis was achieved in 16% of the patients where synovial tissue was sampled successfully.

Conclusion.

US-guided synovial biopsies in clinical practice can be performed safely on patients with undifferentiated arthritis and with heterogeneous presentations. The rate of success in acquiring synovial tissue is high. The procedure usually retrieves quality tissue and leads to a definite diagnosis in a significant minority of patients.
Rheumatoid Arthritis and Coronary Artery Disease: Genetic Analyses Do Not Support a Causal Relation
Authors: Jansen Henning , Willenborg Christina , Lieb Wolfgang , Zeng Lingyao , Ferrario Paola Gloria , Loley Christina , König Inke R. , Erdmann Jeanette , Samani Nilesh J. , Schunkert Heribert ,   The CARDIoGRAM Consortium
Published: October 2016

Objective.

Inflammatory diseases, specifically rheumatoid arthritis (RA), are assumed to increase the risk of coronary artery disease (CAD). More recently, multiple single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) associated with RA risk were identified. If causal mechanisms affecting risks of RA and CAD are overlapping, risk alleles for RA might also increase the risk of CAD.

Methods.

Sixty-one SNP associating with RA in genome-wide significant analyses were tested for association with CAD in CARDIoGRAM (Coronary ARtery DIsease Genome wide Replication and Meta-analysis), a metaanalysis including genome-wide association data (22,233 CAD cases, 64,762 controls). In parallel, a set of SNP being associated with low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) was tested as a positive control.

Results.

Twenty-nine RA-associated SNP displayed a directionality-consistent association with CAD (OR range 1.002–1.073), whereas 32 RA-associated SNP were not associated with CAD (OR range 0.96–0.99 per RA risk-increasing allele). The proportion (48%) of directionality-consistent associated SNP equaled the proportion expected by chance (50%, p = 0.09). Of only 5 RA-associated SNP showing p values for CAD < 0.05, 4 loci (C5orf30, IL-6R, PTPN22, and RAD51B) showed directionality-consistent effects on CAD, and 1 (rs10774624, locus SH2B3) reached study-wide significance (p = 7.29E-06). By contrast, and as a proof of concept, 46 (74%) out of 62 LDL-C–associated SNP displayed a directionality-consistent association with CAD, a proportion that was significantly different from 50% (p = 5.9E-05).

Conclusion.

We found no evidence that RA-associated SNP as a group are associated with CAD. Even though we were not able to study potential effects of all genetic variants individually, shared nongenetic factors may more plausibly explain the observed coincidence of the 2 conditions.
Limited Reliability of Radiographic Assessment of Sacroiliac Joints in Patients with Suspected Early Spondyloarthritis
Authors: Christiansen Alice Ashouri , Hendricks Oliver , Kuettel Dorota , Hørslev-Petersen Kim , Jurik Anne Grethe , Nielsen Steen , Rufibach Kaspar , Loft Anne Gitte , Pedersen Susanne Juhl , Hermansen Louise Thuesen , Østergaard Mikkel , Arnbak Bodil , Manniche Claus , Weber Ulrich
Published: October 2016

Objective.

To determine the reproducibility of evaluation of sacroiliac joint (SIJ) radiographs among readers with varying levels of experience, and to identify potential drivers of disagreement in classification among 5 predefined radiographic lesion types.

Methods.

The study sample consisted of 104 consecutive patients aged 18–40 with low back pain ≥ 3 months of duration who met the Assessment of SpondyloArthritis international Society (ASAS) definition for a positive SIJ magnetic resonance image, or were HLA-B27–positive and had ≥ 1 spondyloarthritis (SpA)-related clinical/laboratory feature according to the ASAS classification criteria for axial SpA. Seven blinded readers (2 musculoskeletal radiologists, 5 rheumatologists) classified pelvic radiographs according to the modified New York criteria (mNY) and recorded presence/absence of 5 lesion types in both SIJ: erosion, sclerosis, ankylosis, joint space widening, and joint space narrowing. Reproducibility of mNY classification among 21 reader pairs was assessed and potential drivers of disagreement were identified among 5 lesion types. A generalized linear mixed logistic regression model served to analyze to what extent discordance in lesion type was associated with discrepant mNY classification.

Results.

Mean κ values (percent concordance) were 0.39 (84.1%) for mNY classification over 21 reader pairs, 0.46 (79.8%) between 2 musculoskeletal radiologists, and 0.55 (86.5%) and 0.36 (77.9%) between the most experienced rheumatologist and the 2 radiologists. Erosion showed the lowest agreement (25%) among patients with discordant classification and gave the highest OR of 13.5 for disagreement.

Conclusion.

Reproducibility of radiographic SIJ classification in an SpA inception cohort was only fair to at best moderate among 7 readers with varying levels of experience, questioning the applicability of mNY in early SpA.
Prevalence of Systemic Sclerosis in Primary Biliary Cholangitis Using the New ACR/EULAR Classification Criteria
Authors: Zheng Boyang , Vincent Catherine , Fritzler Marvin J. , Senécal Jean-Luc , Koenig Martial , Joyal France
Published: October 2016

Objective.

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a well-established disease associated with primary biliary cholangitis (PBC). However, the original 1980 American College of Rheumatology (ACR) criteria have poor sensitivity, especially for the detection of earlier SSc in previous studies. The objective was to evaluate the prevalence of SSc in patients with PBC using more sensitive 2001 LeRoy and Medsger criteria and the 2013 ACR/European League Against Rheumatism (EULAR) classification criteria. The secondary objective was to evaluate the frequency of individual clinical features.

Methods.

One hundred consecutive patients with PBC without previously diagnosed SSc were recruited between 2005 and 2007 from a tertiary care gastroenterology clinic. All patients underwent a complete clinical examination, determination of SSc-specific antibodies, and a nailfold capillary microscopy. Fulfillment of the 3 different criteria sets was analyzed, along with individual disease features.

Results.

Of 100 patients with PBC, 1% met the ACR 1980 criteria, 22% met the 2001 LeRoy and Medsger criteria for early SSc, and 17% the 2013 ACR/EULAR criteria. Raynaud phenomenon, SSc-related antibodies, and SSc capillaroscopic patterns were the most prevalent findings, with the highest sensitivities to help guide future screening.

Conclusion.

Our data show a high prevalence of SSc in patients with PBC with probable underestimation by previous studies using the original ACR criteria. Comorbid SSc should be actively searched for based on newly described criteria to improve detection and increase benefits of earlier treatment.
Risk of Diabetes Mellitus among Patients Diagnosed with Giant Cell Arteritis or Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis: Comparison with the General Population
Authors: Faurschou Mikkel , Ahlström Magnus G. , Lindhardsen Jesper , Obel Niels , Baslund Bo
Published: October 2016

Objective.

Patients with organ- or life-threatening vasculitis receive high cumulative glucocorticoid (GC) doses during their disease course. GC have diabetogenic effects, but the risk of diabetes mellitus (DM) related to vasculitis therapy is not well characterized. We assessed the DM risk among patients diagnosed with giant cell arteritis (GCA) or granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA), i.e., patients with relatively common forms of systemic vasculitis.

Methods.

We used Danish healthcare registries to identify 1682 patients diagnosed with GCA and 342 patients diagnosed with GPA from 1997 to 2015 and to obtain information regarding medication exposures. Each patient with vasculitis was matched with 9 population controls. Date of new-onset DM was defined as date of first claimed prescription for an antidiabetic drug. We used Cox regression analyses to calculate incidence rate ratios (IRR) for DM as a measure of the DM risk among patients relative to population controls. Logistic regression was used to study the association between prednisolone/prednisone (PRED) dose and DM.

Results.

Median duration of followup was 6.5 years [interquartile range (IQR) 2.6–10.4] in the GCA cohort and 5.8 years (IQR 1.7–10.6) in the GPA cohort. During the first year after diagnosis of vasculitis, the IRR for DM was 7.0 (95% CI 5.2–9.3) among patients with GCA and 10.4 (95% CI 4.4–24) among patients with GPA. IRR for DM were not significantly increased in either cohort during later followup periods. Within the first year, treatment with high cumulative prednisolone/PRED doses was associated with new-onset DM among the patients with vasculitis.

Conclusion.

Patients diagnosed with GCA or GPA have a markedly increased risk of new-onset DM during early treatment phases.
Developing an OMERACT Core Outcome Set for Assessing Safety Components in Rheumatology Trials: The OMERACT Safety Working Group
Authors: Klokker Louise , Tugwell Peter , Furst Daniel E. , Devoe Dan , Williamson Paula , Terwee Caroline B. , Suarez-Almazor Maria E. , Strand Vibeke , Woodworth Thasia , Leong Amye L. , Goel Niti , Boers Maarten , Brooks Peter M. , Simon Lee S. , Christensen Robin
Published: October 2016

Objective.

Failure to report harmful outcomes in clinical research can introduce bias favoring a potentially harmful intervention. While core outcome sets (COS) are available for benefits in randomized controlled trials in many rheumatic conditions, less attention has been paid to safety in such COS. The Outcome Measures in Rheumatology (OMERACT) Filter 2.0 emphasizes the importance of measuring harms. The Safety Working Group was reestablished at the OMERACT 2016 with the objective to develop a COS for assessing safety components in trials across rheumatologic conditions.

Methods.

The safety issue has previously been discussed at OMERACT, but without a consistent approach to ensure harms were included in COS. Our methods include (1) identifying harmful outcomes in trials of interventions studied in patients with rheumatic diseases by a systematic literature review, (2) identifying components of safety that should be measured in such trials by use of a patient-driven approach including qualitative data collection and statistical organization of data, and (3) developing a COS through consensus processes including everyone involved.

Results.

Members of OMERACT including patients, clinicians, researchers, methodologists, and industry representatives reached consensus on the need to continue the efforts on developing a COS for safety in rheumatology trials. There was a general agreement about the need to identify safety-related outcomes that are meaningful to patients, framed in terms that patients consider relevant so that they will be able to make informed decisions.

Conclusion.

The OMERACT Safety Working Group will advance the work previously done within OMERACT using a new patient-driven approach.
Noms collectifs humains : nomination et prédication
Authors: Lecolle Michelle
Published: October 2016

L’article porte sur la nomination collective d’êtres humains : il s’agit, plus précisément, d’aborder la sémantique des noms collectifs humains (Ncoll-H), sous l’angle d’une dimension évaluative ou prédicative potentielle. On observe, à propos des Ncoll-H, cette dimension prédicative sous différents aspects : elle peut être liée à la sémantique du nom collectif même, aux traits lexicaux de telle série de Ncoll-H ou à leurs emplois préférentiels. Une première partie explore le rapprochement entre nomination et prédication. Dans une deuxième partie, on présente les propriétés sémantiques des Ncoll-H et la signification lexicale de certains, en rapport avec leurs potentialités prédicatives ou évaluatives. Une dernière partie aborde les emplois attributifs de Ncoll-H. Cette étude permet de situer les « enjeux socio-politiques » de la nomination de groupes humains dans le cadre d’une analyse sémantique et discursive plus générale.
De quoi Europe est-il le nom ? Enjeux et usages argumentatifs de la polyréférentialité
Authors: Auboussier Julien
Published: October 2016

L’article interroge la polyréférentialité et l’actualisation en discours du nom propre Europe en contexte médiatique. Il s’agit dans un premier temps d’interroger les enjeux de la polyréférentialité liés aux usages métonymiques routinisés du nom propre dans le récit de l’actualité ainsi que les enjeux pragmatiques de la personnalisation. Dans un second temps, l’attention est portée au discours rapporté et aux usages du nom propre modifié qui jouent de la polyréférentialité dans une visée argumentative et mobilisatrice. Dès lors, l’actualisation du sens est interrogée au regard des enjeux politiques soulevés.