bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A new class of cyclin dependent kinase in Chlamydomonas is required for coupling cell size to cell division
Authors: Li Yubing , Liu Dianyi , López-Paz Cristina , Olson Bradley JSC , Umen James G
Published: March 2016

Proliferating cells actively control their size by mechanisms that are poorly understood. The unicellular green alga Chlamydomonas reinhardtii divides by multiple fission, wherein a ‘counting’ mechanism couples mother cell-size to cell division number allowing production of uniform-sized daughters. We identified a sizer protein, CDKG1, that acts through the retinoblastoma (RB) tumor suppressor pathway as a D-cyclin-dependent RB kinase to regulate mitotic counting. Loss of CDKG1 leads to fewer mitotic divisions and large daughters, while mis-expression of CDKG1 causes supernumerous mitotic divisions and small daughters. The concentration of nuclear-localized CDKG1 in pre-mitotic cells is set by mother cell size, and its progressive dilution and degradation with each round of cell division may provide a link between mother cell-size and mitotic division number. Cell-size-dependent accumulation of limiting cell cycle regulators such as CDKG1 is a potentially general mechanism for size control.
Fabrication of high-quality

GaN substrates using the Na flux method
Authors: Maruyama Mihoko , Nakamura Koshi , Che Songbek , Murakami Kosuke , Takazawa Hideo , Imanishi Masayuki , Imade Mamoru , Morita Yukihiro , Mori Yusuke
Published: March 2016

Gallium nitride (GaN) substrates fabricated along the nonpolar and semipolar directions are the most promising materials for realizing optical and electronic devices with low power consumption. In this study, we carry out the Na flux growth on

-plane GaN templates grown heteroepitaxially on sapphires. The GaN crystals are grown at low supersaturation using the Na flux method with the dipping technique. The crystallinity of the grown GaN crystals is improved compared to that of the seed substrates. Then it improves further by lowering the supersaturation. Finally, we succeed in fabricating a 2-in.

-plane GaN single crystal with high transparency and crystallinity.
Interface electric properties of Si/organic hybrid solar cells using impedance spectroscopy analysis
Authors: Wang Dan , Zhu Juye , Ding Li , Gao Pingqi , Pan Xiaoyin , Sheng Jiang , Ye Jichun
Published: March 2016

The internal resistance and capacitance of Si/organic hybrid solar cells (Si-HSC) based on poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(styrene sulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS) are investigated by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). Three types of Nyquist plots in Si-HSC are observed firstly at different bias voltages, while suitable equivalent circuit models are established to evaluate the details of interface carrier transfer and recombination. In particular, the carrier transport property of the PEDOT:PSS film responds at a high frequency (6 × 104–1 × 106 Hz) in three-arc spectra. Therefore, EIS could help us deeply understand the electronic properties of Si-HSC for developing high performance devices.
Clustered quantum dots in single GaN islands formed at threading dislocations
Authors: Schmidt Gordon , Veit Peter , Berger Christoph , Bertram Frank , Dadgar Armin , Strittmatter André , Christen Jürgen
Published: March 2016

We give direct evidence of distinct quantum dot states clustered but also spatially separated in single GaN islands. Resulting from GaN layer growth on top of AlN, the islands are predominantly formed in close vicinity to threading dislocation bundles. Detailed analysis of the inner optical and structural properties, performed by nanoscale cathodoluminescence, reveals various sharp quantum dot emission lines from different regions in an otherwise continuous island. Thickness fluctuations found within these islands are made responsible for the clustering of quantum dot states.
Association ofNOD1,CXCL16,STAT6andTLR4gene polymorphisms with Malaysian patients with Crohn’s disease
Authors: Chua Kek Heng , Ng Jin Guan , Ng Ching Ching , Hilmi Ida , Goh Khean Lee , Kee Boon Pin
Published: March 2016

Crohn’s disease (CD) is a prominent type of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that can affect any part of the gastrointestinal tract. CD is known to have higher prevalence in the Western countries, but the number of cases has been increasing in the past decades in Asia, including Malaysia. Therefore, there is a need to investigate the underlining causes of CD that may shed light on its prevention and treatment. In this study, genetic polymorphisms inNOD1(rs2075820),CXCL16(rs2277680),STAT6(rs324015) andTLR4(rs4986791) genes were examined in a total of 335 individuals (85 CD patients and 250 healthy controls) with PCR-RFLP approach. There was no significant association observed betweenNOD1rs2075820 andSTAT6rs324015 with the onset of CD in the studied cohort. However, the G allele ofCXCL16rs2277680 was found to have a weak association with CD patients (P= 0.0482;OR= 1.4310). TheTLR4rs4986791 was also significantly associated to CD. Both the homozygous C genotype (P= 0.0029;OR= 0.3611) and C allele (P= 0.0069;OR= 0.4369) were observed to confer protection against CD. On the other hand, the heterozygous C/T genotype was a risk genotype (P= 0.0015;OR= 3.1392). Further ethnic-stratified analysis showed that the significant associations inCXCL16rs2277680 andTLR4rs4986791 were accounted by the Malay cohort. In conclusion, the present study reported two CD-predisposing loci in the Malay CD patients. However, these loci were not associated to the onset of CD in Chinese and Indian patients.
Resveratrol ameliorates 2,4-dinitrofluorobenzene-induced atopic dermatitis-like lesions through effects on the epithelium
Authors: Caglayan Sozmen Sule , Karaman Meral , Cilaker Micili Serap , Isik Sakine , Arikan Ayyildiz Zeynep , Bagriyanik Alper , Uzuner Nevin , Karaman Ozkan
Published: March 2016

Background.Resveratrol is a natural polyphenol that exhibits anti-inflammatory effects. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of resveratrol treatment on epithelium-derived cytokines and epithelial apoptosis in a murine model of atopic dermatitis-like lesions.

Material and Methods.Atopic dermatitis-like lesions were induced in BALB/c mice by repeated application of 2,4-dinitrofluorobenzene to shaved dorsal skin. Twenty-one BALB/c mice were divided into three groups: group I (control), group II (vehicle control), and group III (resveratrol). Systemic resveratrol (30 mg/kg/day) was administered repeatedly during the 6th week of the experiment. After the mice had been sacrificed, skin tissues were examined histologically for epithelial thickness. Epithelial apoptosis (caspase-3) and epithelium-derived cytokines [interleukin (IL)-25, IL-33, and thymic stromal lymphopoietin (TSLP)] were evaluated immunohistochemically.

Results.Epithelial thickness and the numbers of IL-25, IL-33, TSLP and caspase-3-positive cells were significantly higher in group II compared to group I mice. There was significant improvement in epithelial thickness in group III compared with group II mice (p< 0.05). The numbers of IL-25, IL-33, and TSLP-positive cells in the epithelium were lower in group III than in group II mice (p< 0.05). The number of caspase-3-positive cells, as an indicator of apoptosis, in the epithelium was significantly lower in group III than in group II mice (p< 0.05).

Conclusion.Treatment with resveratrol was effective at ameliorating histological changes and inflammation by acting on epithelium-derived cytokines and epithelial apoptosis.
Pontas hidráulicas, adjuvante e horários de aplicação de fomesafen no controle de picão-preto
Authors: Godinho Junior João De Deus , Sousa Júnior José Márcio de , Gontijo Guilherme Andrade , Ruas Renato Adriane Alves
Published: March 2016

A aplicação de defensivos agrícolas é afetada por diversos fatores, dentre eles, destaca-se o momento da aplicação, que pode variar de acordo com o alvo, o produto aplicado e equipamento utilizado. Objetivou-se avaliar pontas hidráulicas, adjuvante e horários de aplicação de fomesafen no controle de picão-preto. Os tratamentos foram arranjados em esquema fatorial 4x2x2, com o primeiro fator constituído de quatro pontas (API-11002; jato leque simples-JLS, AD/D-11002; jato leque duplo-JLD, AVI TWIN-11002; jato leque duplo com indução de ar-JLDIA, e APM-09502; jato leque simples de impacto-JLSIP). O segundo de dois horários de aplicação (3 e 16 horas) e o terceiro de duas misturas em tanque (com e sem adição de adjuvante espalhante adesivo não iônico). Os tratamentos foram avaliados sete, 14 e 21 dias após à aplicação, através do número de plantas vivas, altura das plantas, análise visual e aos 21 dias foi feita matéria seca da parte aérea. A aplicação às 16 horas proporcionou maior controle de todas as características avaliadas, a ponta JLSIP se destacou causando maior redução de matéria seca e de plantas vivas e a adição de adjuvante potencializou o controle da aplicação às 16 horas. O horário de aplicação influencia a ação do herbicida fomesafen, sendo que, sua aplicação às 16 horas proporciona maior controle de B. pilosa em relação à realizada às 3 horas. A ponta JLSIP aumenta a ação de fomesafen e a adição de adjuvante potencializa o efeito desta ponta e da aplicação realizada às 16 horas.
Fitotoxicidade de herbicidas aplicados em pós transplantio de mudas de maracujá amarelo
Authors: Paiva Maria Carolina Gomes , Barcellos Júnior Lucas Heringer , Pereira Gustavo Antônio Mendes , Gonçalves Valdinei Araújo , Felipe Rafael Da Silva , Machado Miler Soares , Silva Antonio Alberto da
Published: March 2016

O Brasil é o principal produtor de maracujá do mundo, todavia, para esta cultura não existe registro de herbicidas no controle de plantas daninhas. Sendo assim, o objetivo deste experimento foi avaliar os efeitos da aplicação de herbicidas após o transplantio de mudas de maracujá amarelo no crescimento e intoxicação da cultura. Foram testados 21 herbicidas de diferentes mecanismos de ação aplicados aos 35 dias após transplantio (DAT). Aos 63 dias DAT foram avaliadas as intoxicações causadas pelos herbicidas na cultura, e aos 70 dias DAT foram realizadas as avaliações dos danos causados às mudas. Nenhum herbicida causou danos ao sistema radicular das plantas de maracujá. Os herbicidas glifosate, imazapic, metsulfuron-methyl e amonio-glufosinate, causaram reduções no ganho em altura das plantas. Os herbicidas atrazine, linuron, metribuzin, diuron, tebuthiuron e bentazon reduziram a matéria seca da folha, caule e total das plantas. O fluazifop-p-butil reduziu o ganho em altura e a matéria seca de folhas. Os herbicidas que causaram os maiores danos no crescimento das mudas, também causaram maiores intoxicações. Os herbicidas oxadiazon, fenoxaprop-ethyl, tembotrione, chlorimuron-ethyl e isoxaflutole não prejudicaram o crescimento e não intoxicaram as mudas, sendo os mais promissores para aplicação em área total.
Spatial distribution of the faulting types of small earthquakes around the 2011 Tohoku‐oki earthquake: A comprehensive search using template events
Authors: Nakamura Wataru , Uchida Naoki , Matsuzawa Toru
Published: March 2016

We developed a new method to classify the faulting types of small earthquakes using interevent waveform similarity and applied it to earthquakes in the northeast Japan subduction zone. In the method, we used separate time windows for P and S waves and established a relationship between waveform similarity and differences in focal mechanisms from event pairs whose focal mechanisms we know. Then we applied the relationship to many pairs of such focal‐mechanism‐known events (5607 from the moment tensor catalogue and 3623 events from the interplate repeating earthquakes catalogue) and focal‐mechanism‐unknown events for the period from 1984 to 2013. As a result, 8984 earthquakes were newly classified into interplate (N = 5401), noninterplate thrust (N = 631), normal (N = 1070), and strike‐slip faulting earthquakes (N = 165). From the new data set, which doubles the number of mechanism types, we confirmed that there have been almost no interplate earthquakes in the area of large coseismic slip of the Tohoku‐oki earthquake since that event. We also saw that this trend continued until at least the end of 2013, suggesting a nearly complete stress release and slow interplate stress recovery. The abundant interplate aftershocks also indicate the precise spatial extent of postsesimic slip, which is usually difficult to obtain from land‐based geodetic data. The postseismic slip also suggests stress concentration at the asperities of the 1968 Tokachi‐oki (M7.9) and 1994 Sanriku‐oki (M7.6) earthquakes. The present‐day faulting types offshore Tohoku correlated well with the static‐stress change from the Tohoku‐oki earthquake, suggesting a stress state change during the earthquake cycle of megathrust earthquakes.
P wave azimuthal and radial anisotropy of the Hokkaido subduction zone
Authors: Niu Xiongwei , Zhao Dapeng , Li Jiabiao , Ruan Aiguo
Published: March 2016

We present the first three‐dimensional P wave radial anisotropy tomography of the Hokkaido subduction zone, as well as P wave azimuthal anisotropy and S wave tomography, which are determined by inverting 298,430 P wave and 233,934 S wave arrival times from 14,245 local earthquakes recorded by 344 seismic stations. Our results reveal significant velocity heterogeneity, seismic anisotropy, and upwelling flows beneath the study region. In the mantle wedge, prominent low‐velocity (low‐V) anomalies exhibit trench‐normal fast‐velocity directions (FVDs) and a negative radial anisotropy (i.e., vertical velocity > horizontal velocity), which may reflect upwelling mantle flows. Fan‐shaped FVDs are found at depths of 65–90 km, and a detailed 3‐D mantle flow pattern is revealed, which may be caused by a combination of oblique subduction of the Pacific plate and collision of the Kuril arc with the Honshu arc beneath southern Hokkaido. The radial anisotropy changes at ~100 km depth, which may reflect variations in temperature and fluid conditions there. The subducting Pacific slab exhibits a positive radial anisotropy (i.e., horizontal velocity > vertical velocity), which may reflect the original fossil anisotropy when the Pacific plate formed at the mid‐ocean ridge.
Quantifying isentropic stratosphere‐troposphere exchange of ozone
Authors: Yang Huang , Chen Gang , Tang Qi , Hess Peter
Published: March 2016

There is increased evidence that stratosphere‐troposphere exchange (STE) of ozone has a significant impact on tropospheric chemistry and radiation. Traditional diagnostics of STE consider the ozone budget in the lowermost stratosphere (LMS) as a whole. However, this can only render the hemispherically integrated ozone flux and therefore does not distinguish the exchange of ozone into low latitudes from that into high latitudes. The exchange of ozone at different latitudes may have different tropospheric impacts. This present study extends the traditional approach from the entire LMS to individual isentropic layers in the LMS and therefore gives the meridional distribution of STE by the latitudes where each isentropic surface intersects the tropopause. The specified dynamics version of the Whole Atmosphere Community Climate Model is used to estimate the STE ozone flux on each isentropic surface. It is found that net troposphere‐to‐stratosphere ozone transport occurs in low latitudes along the 350–380 K isentropic surfaces and that net stratosphere‐to‐troposphere ozone transport takes place in the extratropics along the 280–350 K isentropes. Particularly, the seasonal cycle of extratropical STE ozone flux in the Northern Hemisphere displays a maximum in late spring and early summer, following the seasonal migration of the upper tropospheric jet and associated isentropic mixing. Furthermore, differential diabatic heating and isentropic mixing tend to induce STE ozone fluxes in opposite directions, but the net effect results in a spatiotemporal pattern similar to the STE ozone flux associated with isentropic mixing.
On the feasibility of detecting the ionospheric effects of solar energetic particle events at Mars using spacecraft‐spacecraft radio links
Authors: Withers Paul
Published: March 2016

Indirect evidence and theoretical modeling suggests that the effects of solar energetic particle (SEP) events on the ionosphere of Mars are substantial, but observations have not yet provided quantitative information on the magnitude or vertical distribution of the plasma produced below 100 km by SEP events. Strong radio wave absorption is anticipated during a SEP event due to the production of plasma at low altitudes where the neutral atmosphere is relatively dense. Here we test the feasibility of measuring the ionospheric effects of SEP events using power losses in spacecraft‐spacecraft UHF radio links. Both lander‐orbiter and orbiter‐orbiter cases are considered for the UHF radio frequency of 400 MHz. A large SEP event should cause an ionospheric power loss at 400 MHz of 1.5 dB in lander‐orbiter communications and, due to the longer path length, a larger power loss of 35 dB in orbiter‐orbiter communications. Multiple SEP events occur each year that can cause a lander‐orbiter power loss of 0.1 dB, which is shown to be theoretically detectable by current instrumentation, and an orbiter‐orbiter power loss of 2 dB. The vertical profile of electron density at low altitudes can be determined from orbiter‐orbiter power losses.
Magnetic field effects on the accuracy of ionospheric mirror models for geolocation
Authors: Dao Eugene V. , McNamara Leo F. , Colman Jonah J.
Published: March 2016

The geolocation of an uncooperative HF emitter is based on observations of the azimuth and elevation (angle of arrival; AoA) of its signals as they arrive at a surveillance site, along with a model of the propagation medium. The simplest propagation model that provides an estimate of the location of the emitter is based on the use of a horizontal mirror placed at the appropriate altitude. If there are large‐scale horizontal ionospheric gradients or traveling ionospheric disturbances present, tilts derived from a suitable ionosonde or from the AoA of convenient known emitters (check targets) may be applied to the mirror before geolocation is performed. However, the methodology of this approach to geolocation completely ignores the Earth's magnetic field, producing errors that can reach 25% of range for a short range (less than 100 km) low‐latitude target. The errors are generally smaller at midlatitudes. This paper investigates and characterizes these errors in terms of wave polarization, magnetic dip, circuit length, and azimuth relative to the direction of the magnetic field. The magnetic field also affects the procedure of using tilts derived from check‐target AoA because the field effects can masquerade as tilts of unknown magnitude.
Generation and backreaction of spontaneously emitted inertia‐gravity waves
Authors: Sugimoto Norihiko , Plougonven Riwal
Published: March 2016

Spontaneous generation of inertia‐gravity waves from balanced flows is investigated in idealized simulations of dipoles. Long integrations are performed for dipoles with different Rossby numbers (Ro) to identify the backreaction of the waves. Emission of waves is detected only for large enough Ro (>0.15), and it then leads to a slow decay of the dipole's kinetic energy. A major finding is that this decay is well captured by the simulations, although positions of the waves appear still sensitive to the resolution, and their maximum vertical velocity increases linearly with resolution. The interpretation is that the emission process is well resolved and fairly insensitive to resolution, while the propagation and dissipation at small scales remains sensitive to resolution. The implication is that the simulations yield an estimate of the leakage of energy from balanced motions to gravity waves, providing a useful estimate of a poorly constrained flux in the ocean's energy budget.
Eddy‐driven recirculation of Atlantic Water in Fram Strait
Authors: Hattermann Tore , Isachsen Pål Erik , von Appen Wilken‐Jon , Albretsen Jon , Sundfjord Arild
Published: March 2016

Eddy‐resolving regional ocean model results in conjunction with synthetic float trajectories and observations provide new insights into the recirculation of the Atlantic Water (AW) in Fram Strait that significantly impacts the redistribution of oceanic heat between the Nordic Seas and the Arctic Ocean. The simulations confirm the existence of a cyclonic gyre around the Molloy Hole near 80°N, suggesting that most of the AW within the West Spitsbergen Current recirculates there, while colder AW recirculates in a westward mean flow south of 79°N that primarily relates to the eastern rim of the Greenland Sea Gyre. The fraction of waters recirculating in the northern branch roughly doubles during winter, coinciding with a seasonal increase of eddy activity along the Yermak Plateau slope that also facilitates subduction of AW beneath the ice edge in this area.
Seasonal variations in the Rayleigh‐to‐Love wave ratio in the secondary microseism from colocated ring laser and seismograph
Authors: Tanimoto Toshiro , Hadziioannou Céline , Igel Heiner , Wassermann Joachim , Schreiber Ulrich , Gebauer André , Chow Bryant
Published: March 2016

Monthly variations in the ratio of Rayleigh‐to‐Love waves in the secondary microseism are obtained from a colocated ring laser and an STS‐2 seismograph at Wettzell, Germany. Two main conclusions are derived for the Rayleigh‐to‐Love wave kinetic energy ratios in the secondary microseism; first, the energy ratio is in the range 0.8–0.9 (<1.0) throughout a year except for June and July. It means that Love wave energy is larger than Rayleigh wave energy most of the year by about 10–20%. Second, this ratio suddenly increases to 1.0–1.2 in June and July, indicating a larger fraction of Rayleigh wave energy. This change suggests that the locations and behaviors of excitation sources are different in these months.
Features of 847 Childhood‐Onset Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Patients in Three Age Groups at Diagnosis: A Brazilian Multicenter Study
Authors: Gomes Roberta C. , Silva Marco F. , Kozu Katia , Bonfá Eloisa , Pereira Rosa M. , Terreri Maria T. , Magalhães Claudia S. , Sacchetti Silvana B. , Marini Roberto , Fraga Melissa , Carvalho Luciana M. , Barbosa Cássia M. , Carneiro‐Sampaio Magda , Silva Clovis A.
Published: March 2016

Objective

To evaluate demographic data and clinical and laboratory features at disease diagnosis in 3 different age groups of childhood‐onset systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE): group A, early‐onset (<6 years); group B, school age (≥6 to <12 years); and group C, adolescent (≥12 to <18 years).

Methods

This was a Brazilian multicenter cohort retrospective study in 10 pediatric rheumatology centers, including 847 childhood‐onset SLE patients.

Results

Patients were divided into 3 groups: group A with 39 patients (4%), group B with 395 patients (47%), and group C with 413 patients (49%). Of 39 childhood‐onset SLE patients in group A, 3 (8%) were ages <2 years, 4 (10%) were ≥2 to <3 years, and 32 (82%) were ≥3 and <6 years. A total of 74 childhood‐onset SLE patients were analyzed for C1q levels, and complete C1q deficiency was observed in 3 of 74 patients (4%), all in group A. Groups were similar regarding high frequencies of female sex, nephritis, neuropsychiatric involvement, Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Disease Activity Index 2000 score ≥8, autoantibody profile, elevated acute phase proteins, and low complement levels (P > 0.05). However, the frequency of fever (78% versus 61% versus 47%; P < 0.0001), hepatomegaly (42% versus 29% versus 14%; P < 0.0001), splenomegaly (28% versus 12% versus 4%; P < 0.0001), and discoid lupus (13% versus 4% versus 4%; P = 0.020) was significantly higher in group A compared to groups B and C. The frequency of weight loss >2 kg (19% versus 28% versus 36%; P = 0.017), photosensitivity (34% versus 41% versus 51%; P = 0.006), leukopenia <4,000/mm3 (14% versus 25% versus 30%; P = 0.048), and lymphopenia <1,500/mm3 (22% versus 41% versus 47%; P = 0.011) was significantly lower in group A.

Conclusion

Our large multicenter study identified the finding that the initial appearance of childhood‐onset SLE is characterized by comparable high frequency of internal organ involvement and some distinct clinical and laboratory features in early‐onset and adolescent groups.
Risk of Cerebrovascular Accidents and Ischemic Heart Disease in Cutaneous Lupus Erythematosus: A Population‐Based Cohort Study
Authors: Singh Abha G. , Crowson Cynthia S. , Singh Siddharth , Denis Mark , Davis P. , Maradit‐Kremers Hilal , Matteson Eric L. , Chowdhary Vaidehi R.
Published: March 2016

Objective

It is unclear whether isolated cutaneous lupus erythematosus (CLE) affects cardiovascular risk. We estimated the cumulative incidence and mortality of cardiovascular diseases in a population‐based CLE cohort and compared the risk with a matched non‐CLE cohort.

Methods

All incident cases of CLE in Olmsted County, Minnesota, between 1965 and 2005 were followed until December 2013. The cumulative incidence of cerebrovascular accidents (CVAs [including stroke and transient ischemic attack]), ischemic heart disease (IHD [including coronary artery disease, myocardial infarction, and angina pectoris]), heart failure, and peripheral arterial disease (PAD) was derived and compared to an age‐, sex‐, and calendar year–matched non‐CLE cohort using Cox models.

Results

There were 155 patients with CLE (mean ± SD age at diagnosis 48 ± 16 years, 65% female, mean ± SD BMI 26.3 ± 7.1 kg/m2, 40% smokers, 9% with diabetes mellitus). During a median followup of 14.6 years, 41 CLE patients had cardiovascular events (15 patients with CVAs, 32 patients with IHD), with a 20‐year cumulative incidence of 31.6%. As compared to non‐CLE subjects, the risk of CVAs (smoking‐adjusted hazard ratio [HR] 2.97 [95% confidence interval (95% CI) 1.13–7.78]) and PAD (HR 2.06 [95% CI 0.99–4.32]) was increased in patients with CLE, but the risk of IHD was not increased (HR 0.94 [95% CI 0.57–1.54]). There was no increase in cardiovascular mortality (HR 1.68 [95% CI 0.76–3.75]). The magnitude of risk for any cardiovascular outcome was not significantly influenced by the extent of cutaneous involvement.

Conclusion

CLE may be associated with an increased risk of CVAs and PAD, but not IHD. Factors contributing to increased CVA risk in patients with CLE merit evaluation.
Using Optimal Test Assembly Methods for Shortening Patient‐Reported Outcome Measures: Development and Validation of the Cochin Hand Function Scale‐6: A Scleroderma Patient‐Centered Intervention Network Cohort Study
Authors: Levis Alexander W. , Harel Daphna , Kwakkenbos Linda , Carrier Marie‐Eve , Mouthon Luc , Poiraudeau Serge , Bartlett Susan J. , Khanna Dinesh , Malcarne Vanessa L. , Sauve Maureen , van den Ende Cornelia H. M. , Poole Janet L. , Schouffoer Anne A. , Welling Joep , Thombs Brett D. ,   and the Scleroderma Patient‐Centered Intervention Network Investigators
Published: March 2016

Objective

To develop and validate a short form of the Cochin Hand Function Scale (CHFS), which measures hand disability, for use in systemic sclerosis, using objective criteria and reproducible techniques.

Methods

Responses on the 18‐item CHFS were obtained from English‐speaking patients enrolled in the Scleroderma Patient‐Centered Intervention Network Cohort. CHFS unidimensionality was verified using confirmatory factor analysis, and an item response theory model was fit to CHFS items. Optimal test assembly (OTA) methods identified a maximally precise short form for each possible form length between 1 and 17 items. The final short form selected was the form with the least number of items that maintained statistically equivalent convergent validity, compared to the full‐length CHFS, with the Health Assessment Questionnaire (HAQ) disability index (DI) and the physical function domain of the 29‐item Patient‐Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS‐29).

Results

There were 601 patients included. A 6‐item short form of the CHFS (CHFS‐6) was selected. The CHFS‐6 had a Cronbach's alpha of 0.93. Correlations of the CHFS‐6 summed score with HAQ DI (r = 0.79) and PROMIS‐29 physical function (r = −0.54) were statistically equivalent to the CHFS (r = 0.81 and r = −0.56). The correlation with the full CHFS was high (r = 0.98).

Conclusion

The OTA procedure generated a valid short form of the CHFS with minimal loss of information compared to the full‐length form. The OTA method used was based on objective, prespecified criteria, but should be further studied for viability as a general procedure for shortening patient‐reported outcome measures in health research.
Infliximab Versus Conventional Combination Treatment and Seven‐Year Work Loss in Early Rheumatoid Arthritis: Results of a Randomized Swedish Trial
Authors: Eriksson Jonas K. , Wallman Johan K. , Miller Heather , Petersson Ingemar F. , Ernestam Sofia , Vivar Nancy , van Vollenhoven Ronald F. , Neovius Martin
Published: March 2016

Objective

To compare long‐term work loss in methotrexate‐refractory early rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients randomized to the addition of infliximab or conventional combination treatment.

Methods

This study was a multicenter, 2‐arm, parallel, randomized, active‐controlled, open‐label trial. RA patients with <1‐year symptom duration were recruited from 15 rheumatology clinics in Sweden between 2002–2005. Patients who did not achieve low disease activity after 3–4 months of methotrexate therapy were randomized to the addition of infliximab or conventional combination treatment with sulfasalazine plus hydroxychloroquine. Yearly sick leave and disability pension days >7 years after randomization were retrieved from nationwide registers kept by the Swedish Social Insurance Agency.

Results

Of 210 working‐age patients, 109 were randomized to infliximab (mean age 48.4 years, 73% women) and 101 to conventional treatment (mean age 48.7 years, 77% women). The year before randomization, the mean number of annual work days lost was 127 in the infliximab arm and 118 in the conventional treatment group (mean difference 9 [95% confidence interval (95% CI) −23, 39]). Compared to the year before randomization, the mean changes at 7 years were −25 days in the infliximab and −26 days in the conventional treatment group (adjusted mean difference 10 [95% CI −25, 46]). The cumulative mean for work‐loss days was 846 in the infliximab group and 701 in the conventional treatment group (adjusted mean difference 104 [95% CI −56, 284]).

Conclusion

Long‐term work loss improved significantly in early RA patients randomized to infliximab plus methotrexate or conventional combination therapy. No difference was detected between strategies, and the level of work‐loss days remained twice that observed in the general population.
Prevalence of Post‐Chikungunya Infection Chronic Inflammatory Arthritis: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Rodríguez‐Morales Alfonso J. , Cardona‐Ospina Jaime A. , Fernanda Urbano‐Garzón Sivia , Sebastian Hurtado‐Zapata Juan
Published: March 2016

Objective

To determine the percentage of patients who would develop chronic inflammatory rheumatism (CIR) following chikungunya (CHIK) virus disease.

Methods

We conducted a systematic review of the literature in 3 databases (PubMed, Science Citation Index, and Scopus) to identify studies assessing the proportion of patients who progress to CHIK‐CIR. We performed a random‐effects model meta‐analysis to calculate the pooled prevalence and 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs). A 2‐tailed alpha level of 5% was used for hypothesis testing. Measures of heterogeneity, including Cochran's Q statistic, the I2 index, and the tau‐squared test, were calculated and reported. Subgroup analyses were conducted by type of study and country, by studies evaluating chronic arthritis, and by studies with ≥200 patients and followup ≥18 months. Publication bias was assessed using a funnel‐plot.

Results

Up to June 15, 2015, our literature search yielded 578 citations. The pooled prevalence of CHIK‐CIR in 18 selected studies among 5,702 patients was 40.22% (95% CI 31.11–49.34; τ2 = 0.0838). From studies derived from India, prevalence was 27.27% (95% CI 15.66–38.88; τ2 = 0.0411), while from France, prevalence was 50.25% (95% CI 25.38–75.12; τ2 = 0.1797). The prevalence of CHIK chronic arthritis was 13.66% (95% CI 9.31–18.00; τ2 = 0.0060). Considering just those studies with ≥200 patients assessed, prevalence was 34.14% (95% CI 23.99–44.29; τ2 = 0.0525). In studies with a followup ≥18 months, prevalence was 32.13% (95% CI 22.21–42.04; τ2 = 0.0453).

Conclusion

According to our results in the most conservative scenario, approximately 25% of CHIK cases would develop CHIK‐CIR (34% if we just consider the most representative studies), and 14% would develop chronic arthritis.
Supercritical water gasification of aqueous fraction of pyrolysis oil in the presence of a Ni‐Ru catalyst
Authors: Behnia Izad , Yuan Zhongshun , Charpentier Paul , Xu Chunbao (Charles)
Published: March 2016

This study demonstrated that aqueous fraction of pyrolysis oil can be efficiently gasified into fuel gases methane and hydrogen via supercritical water gasification (SCWG) at moderate temperatures (500–700°C) over Ni20%Ru2%/γ‐Al2O3 catalyst. All experiments were performed in a bench‐scale continuous down‐flow tubular reactor packed with the catalyst. Carbon gasification efficiency of 0.91 mol/mol‐C (converted into CH4 and CO2) was achieved in SCWG of the aqueous fraction of pyrolysis oil (containing 2.98 wt % C) at 700°C in the presence of the catalyst. A similar carbon gasification efficiency (approx. 0.89 mol/mol‐C) was obtained at a lower temperature (600°C) with a diluted feedstock (0.7 wt %C). Scanning Electron Microscopy coupled with Energy Dispersive x‐ray and inductively coupled plasma analysis results confirmed that this catalyst was stable during SCWG of aqueous fraction of pyrolysis oil after 6 h on‐stream. © 2016 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 62: 2786–2793, 2016
CO2 sorption performance by aminosilane functionalized spheres prepared via co‐condensation and post‐synthesis methods
Authors: Madden David , Curtin Teresa , Hanrahan John P. , Tobin Joseph
Published: March 2016

Amine functionalized silica microspheres were synthesised via a modified Stöber reaction for carbon dioxide (CO2) adsorption. A number of adsorbents were synthesized by co‐condensation and post synthesis immobilization of amines on porous silica spheres. CO2 adsorption studies were carried out on a fixed bed gas adsorption rig with online mass spectrometry. Amine co‐condensed silica spheres were found to adsorb up to 66 mg CO2 g−1 solid in a 0.15 atm CO2 stream at 35°C. Simple post‐synthesis addition of aminopropyltriethoxysilane to amine co‐condensed silica was found to significantly increase the uptake of CO2 to 211 mg CO2 g−1 under similar conditions, with CO2 desorption commencing at temperatures as low as 60°C. The optimum temperature for adsorption was found to be 35°C. This work presents a CO2 adsorbent prepared via a simple synthesis method, with a high CO2 adsorption capacity and favorable CO2 adsorption/desorption performance under simulated flue gas conditions. © 2016 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 62: 2825–2832, 2016
Autologous stem cell transplantation in first complete remission may not extend progression‐free survival in patients with peripheral T cell lymphomas
Authors: Yam Clinton , Landsburg Daniel J. , Nead Kevin T. , Lin Xinyi , Mato Anthony R. , Svoboda Jakub , Loren Alison W. , Frey Noelle V. , Stadtmauer Edward A. , Porter David L. , Schuster Stephen J. , Nasta Sunita D.
Published: March 2016

Patients with peripheral T cell lymphomas (PTCL) generally have a poor prognosis when treated with conventional chemotherapy. Consolidation with autologous stem cell transplantation (ASCT) has been reported to improve progression‐free survival. However, these studies have not compared consolidative ASCT with active observation in patients with PTCL achieving first complete remission (CR1) following induction chemotherapy. We conducted a retrospective analysis of PTCL patients treated at the University of Pennsylvania between 1/1/2007 and 12/31/2014. Patients with cutaneous T cell lymphoma, concurrent B cell lymphomas, and anaplastic lymphoma kinase‐positive anaplastic large cell lymphoma (ALK‐positive ALCL) were excluded from the study. We compared progression‐free survival for patients who underwent ASCT in CR1 following CHOP‐like induction regimens and patients who underwent active observation during CR1. 48 patients met all inclusion and exclusion criteria and underwent either active observation (28 patients) or consolidative ASCT (20 patients) in CR1. The 1‐year cumulative incidence of relapse in the observation and ASCT groups was 50% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 30–67%) and 46% (95% CI: 23–67%), respectively (P = 0.55). Median progression‐free survival in the observation and ASCT groups was 15.8 and 12.8 months, respectively (log rank, P = 0.79). Estimated 3‐year progression‐free survival in the observation and ASCT groups was 37 and 41%, respectively. In conclusion, for PTCL patients achieving CR1 following CHOP‐like induction chemotherapy, ASCT does not appear to improve progression‐free survival compared to active observation. This finding should be confirmed in a larger, prospective study. Am. J. Hematol. 91:672–676, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Somatic, hematologic phenotype, long‐term outcome, and effect of hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. An analysis of 97 Fanconi anemia patients from the Italian national database on behalf of the Marrow Failure Study Group of the AIEOP (Italian Association of Pediatric Hematology–Oncology)
Authors: Svahn Johanna , Bagnasco Francesca , Cappelli Enrico , Onofrillo Daniela , Caruso Silvia , Corsolini Fabio , De Rocco Daniela , Savoia Anna , Longoni Daniela , Pillon Marta , Marra Nicoletta , Ramenghi Ugo , Farruggia Piero , Locasciulli Anna , Addari Carmen , Cerri Carla , Mastrodicasa Elena , Casazza Gabriella , Verzegnassi Federico , Riccardi Francesca , Haupt Riccardo , Barone Angelica , Cesaro Simone , Cugno Chiara , Dufour Carlo
Published: March 2016

We analyzed 97 Fanconi anemia patients from a clinic/biological database for genotype, somatic, and hematologic phenotype, adverse hematological events, solid tumors, and treatment. Seventy‐two patients belonged to complementation group A. Eighty percent of patients presented with mild/moderate somatic phenotype and most with cytopenia. No correlation was seen between somatic/hematologic phenotype and number of missense mutations of FANCA alleles. Over follow‐up, 33% of patients improved or maintained mild/moderate cytopenia or normal blood count, whereas remaining worsened cytopenia. Eleven patients developed a hematological adverse event (MDS, AML, pathological cytogenetics) and three developed solid tumors. 10 years cumulative risk of death of the whole cohort was 25.6% with median follow‐up 5.8 years. In patients eligible to hematopoietic stem cell transplantation because of moderate cytopenia, mortality was significantly higher in subjects transplanted from matched unrelated donor over nontransplanted subjects, whereas there was no significant difference between matched sibling donor transplants and nontransplanted patients. In patients eligible to transplant because of severe cytopenia and clonal disease, mortality risk was not significantly different in transplanted from matched unrelated versus matched sibling donor versus nontransplanted subjects. The decision to transplant should rely on various elements including, type of donor, HLA matching, patient comorbidities, impairment, and clonal evolution of hematopoiesis. Am. J. Hematol. 91:666–671, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Analysis of racial variations in disease characteristics, treatment patterns, and outcomes of patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia
Authors: Nabhan Chadi , Chaffee Kari G. , Slager Susan L. , Galanina Natalie , Achenbach Sara J. , Schwager Susan M. , Kay Neil E. , Shanafelt Tait D.
Published: March 2016

The impact of race on outcomes of patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), the most common leukemia in the west, is not well studied. We aimed to understand racial variations in clinical and disease characteristics, treatment patterns, and outcomes in patients with CLL. We utilized the Mayo Clinic CLL database to perform an analysis of these characteristics and natural history of non‐white (NW) compared to white (W) CLL patients. Differences by race in median overall survival (OS) and time‐to‐first‐treatment (TTFT) were investigated. Of the 4215 CLL patients, 4114 (97.6%) were W and 101 (2.4%) were NW. NW patients were younger (median age at diagnosis 59.4 vs. 63.4; P = 0.003) and more likely to have an elevated LDH (28.0% vs. 16.2%; P = 0.02). No differences in prognostic parameters were noted. No major differences were observed in treatment selection. OS and TTFT were similar between both groups. In the largest analysis of NW‐CLL patients in North America, and contrary to historical retrospective reports, W and NW patients appear to have comparable outcomes when treated similarly. These findings suggest previously noted outcome differences may be due to disparities in access to care and management rather than differences in disease biology. Am. J. Hematol. 91:677–680, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Expression of ADAM17 and ADAM10 in nasal polyps
Authors: Bae Woo Yong , Park Seong Kook , Kim Do Hun , Koh Tae Kyung , Hur Dae Young , Chueh Hee Won
Published: March 2016

Background

The “a disintegrin and metalloproteases” (ADAMs) are a multifunctional gene family that contribute to the homeostasis of the extracellular matrix, transduction of specific intracellular signals, organogenesis, inflammation, tissue remodeling, adhesion, and cell migration. ADAM17 is the best‐characterized of the “sheddases,” and its putative substrates are widespread, including various inflammatory modulators. ADAM10 is the most similar to ADAM17 in terms of protein sequence and the structural properties of their catalytic domains. The objective of this work was to assess the roles of ADAM17 and ADAM10 in nasal polyps (NPs) by measuring their expression.

Methods

The expression of ADAM10 and 17 was investigated in NPs at endonasal sinus surgery (n = 15) and compared with that in inferior turbinate mucosa samples obtained from nonallergic hypertrophic rhinitis patients (n = 15). Tissue samples were analyzed by real‐time polymerase chain reaction (PCR), Western blotting, and immunohistochemical staining.

Results

The ADAM17 messenger RNA (mRNA) and protein levels were significantly higher in the inferior turbinate than in NPs (p < 0.05). The ADAM10 mRNA and protein levels did not differ significantly between NPs and inferior turbinates (p > 0.05). ADAM10 and ADAM17 were expressed primarily in inflammatory cells, submucosal glandular cells, and lining epithelial cells.

Conclusion

ADAM17 may contribute to the development of NPs in contrast to ADAM10, based on their expression patterns. It may be important to discover the role of ADAM17 in the development of NP and helpful to examine the specific mechanism of the development of NPs.
T regulatory and Th17 cells in chronic rhinosinusitis with polyps
Authors: Miljkovic Dijana , Psaltis Alkis , Wormald Peter‐John , Vreugde Sarah
Published: March 2016

Background

Chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) is categorized into 2 types based on the absence (CRSsNP) and presence of nasal polyps (CRSwNP). Although CRSsNP patients lack nasal polyps, the mucosa may show variable degrees of polypoid change. This raises the question of whether or not the classification system is an over simplification and that CRSsNP and CRSwNP only represent 2 phenotypic extremes along a broader spectrum of immunologically different disease processes. To investigate this, adaptive and innate immune cells were compared in the different tissue types within CRSsNP and CRSwNP patients.

Methods

Tissue from 15 CRSwNP, 6 CRSsNP, and 8 healthy control patients was obtained prospectively. Nonpolypoid mucosa, polypoid tissues, and polyps were obtained at the time of endoscopic sinus surgery and analyzed using flow cytometry for various adaptive and innate immune cell subsets.

Results

In the polyps from CRSwNP patients there were significantly more T regulatory (Treg) cells (12.86 ± 12.60 vs 2.83 ± 4.68) and Th17 cells (16.12 ± 11.75 vs 2.31 ± 2.13) compared to the polypoid tissue from CRSsNP patients. Cellular infiltrates in the nonpolypoid or polypoid mucosa of the different patient categories showed no difference in CRSwNP, CRSsNP and control groups.

Conclusion

This observational study identified an increase in Treg and Th17 cells in CRSwNP patients implying that these cells may be implicated in polyp development. Importantly it also identified a similar inflammatory infiltrate in nonpolyp or polypoid mucosa across control, CRSsNP, and CRSwNP groups inferring that polyps should be sampled when studying CRSwNP.
Brief Report: Secukinumab Provides Significant and Sustained Inhibition of Joint Structural Damage in a Phase III Study of Active Psoriatic Arthritis
Authors: van der Heijde Désirée , Landewé Robert B. , Mease Philip J. , McInnes Iain B. , Conaghan Philip G. , Pricop Luminita , Ligozio Greg , Richards Hanno B. , Mpofu Shephard
Published: March 2016

Objective

To assess whether secukinumab treatment in patients with active psoriatic arthritis (PsA) is associated with sustained inhibition of radiographic progression.

Methods

In this phase III, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled study, 606 patients with PsA were randomized to receive intravenous (IV) secukinumab at a dose of 10 mg/kg (weeks 0, 2, 4) followed by subcutaneous secukinumab at a dose of 150 mg or 75 mg (the IV→150 mg and IV→75 mg groups, respectively) or placebo. Patients were stratified according to prior anti–tumor necrosis factor (anti‐TNF) exposure (71% were anti‐TNF naive). At week 16, placebo‐treated patients who had at least a 20% reduction in the tender and swollen joint counts (responders) continued to receive placebo until week 24; nonresponders were re‐randomized to receive secukinumab at a dose of 150 mg or 75 mg. The modified total Sharp/van der Heijde score (SHS) was determined at baseline, week 16 or 24, and week 52.

Results

In the overall population, radiographic progression was inhibited through 52 weeks; efficacy was demonstrated for both erosion and joint space narrowing scores and in patients who switched from placebo to secukinumab at week 24. Subgroup analyses showed that secukinumab reduced radiographic progression at week 24, regardless of previous anti‐TNF treatment. Among anti‐TNF–naive patients, the mean changes from baseline to week 24 in the modified total SHS were 0.05 in the pooled secukinumab group and 0.57 in the placebo group; among patients with an inadequate response or intolerance to anti‐TNF treatment, the mean changes were 0.16 and 0.58, respectively. Anti‐TNF–naive patients showed negligible progression through week 52. Inhibition of structural damage was observed through week 52 irrespective of concomitant methotrexate use. A high proportion of patients receiving secukinumab showed no progression (change in SHS of ≤ 0.5) from baseline to week 24 (82.3% of the IV→150 mg group and 92.3% of the IV→75 mg group) and from week 24 to week 52 (85.7% of the IV→150 mg group and 85.8% of the IV→75 mg group).

Conclusion

Secukinumab inhibited radiographic progression over 52 weeks of treatment in patients with active PsA.