bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fast stratocumulus time scale in mixed layer model and large eddy simulation
Authors: Jones C. R. , Bretherton C. S. , Blossey P. N.
Published: January 2014

A mixed layer model (MLM) and large eddy simulation (LES) are used to analyze the internal response time scales of a stratocumulus‐topped boundary layer (STBL). Three separate time scales are identified: a slow time scale associated with boundary layer deepening (several days), an intermediate thermodynamic time scale (approximately 1 day), and a fast time scale (6–12 h) for cloud water path adjustment associated with an internal entrainment‐liquid flux (ELF) feedback. The nocturnal DYCOMSII‐RF01 case study is used to establish and interpret the previously unidentified fast STBL adjustment time scale with the MLM. The role of the entrainment closure is investigated by repeating the analysis with several different closures. Nearly every closure considered exhibits a fast time scale. Perturbations are applied to the well‐mixed CGILS stratocumulus case in both MLM and LES in order to elicit a short time scale response. Purely radiative perturbations do not project strongly onto the fast scale, while perturbations to the free tropospheric humidity do. A 2K surface and atmospheric temperature perturbation also projects strongly onto the fast scale. We show that the ELF adjustment mechanism behind the fast time scale is responsible for much of the steady state liquid water path response in the perturbed case, acting as a cloud‐thinning feedback mechanism in a uniformly warmed climate.
Nocturnal Knee Pain Increases With the Severity of Knee Osteoarthritis, Disturbing Patient Sleep Quality
Authors: Sasaki Eiji , Tsuda Eiichi , Yamamoto Yuji , Maeda Shugo , Inoue Ryo , Chiba Daisuke , Okubo Noriyuki , Takahashi Ippei , Nakaji Shigeyuki , Ishibashi Yasuyuki
Published: January 2014

Objective

Sleep disturbances frequently accompany chronic pain from osteoarthritis (OA). Effective management of sleep disturbances may require successful treatment of chronic pain, a key factor in the clinical evaluation of knee OA. However, the relationship between the severity of knee OA and sleep quality is unclear. Our purpose was to correlate the prevalence of nocturnal knee pain with different OA severity levels and to determine its influence on sleep quality.

Methods

Subjects included 1,214 local volunteers with mean ± SD age 58.1 ± 13.0 years. The existence and severity of knee OA were determined by the Kellgren/Lawrence (K/L) grade, and joint space widths were measured. The presence of nocturnal knee pain and Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Scores (KOOS) were assessed by self‐completed questionnaires. Sleep quality was evaluated by the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index. Knee‐related factors affecting sleep quality were detected using statistical methods.

Results

The prevalence of nocturnal knee pain was 3.6%, 6.9%, 19.4%, 32.7%, and 75.0% in K/L grades 0, 1, 2, 3, and 4, respectively. Also, prevalence significantly increased with OA severity (P < 0.001). Sleep problems also increased with K/L grade (P = 0.038), and KOOS quality of life (QOL) was significantly lower in those with OA and sleep problems. Logistic regression showed that sleep problems were related to joint space narrowing (P = 0.016) and nocturnal knee pain (P = 0.039). Severe OA also disturbed onset and maintenance of sleep.

Conclusion

The prevalence of nocturnal knee pain and sleep problems increased with the severity of OA, impacting QOL. These results suggest the necessity of appropriate nocturnal pain control.
Lifetime Risk of Total Hip Replacement Surgery and Temporal Trends in Utilization: A Population‐Based Analysis
Authors: Bohensky Megan , Ackerman Ilana , de Steiger Richard , Gorelik Alexandra , Brand Caroline
Published: January 2014

Objective

To investigate lifetime risk of total hip replacement (THR) surgery in the state of Victoria, Australia and to describe temporal trends in THR incidence.

Methods

We analyzed a retrospective population‐based longitudinal cohort of patients who received a primary THR in Victoria from 1998–2009. The factors potentially contributing to changes in lifetime risk were also examined, including temporal changes in THR incidence according to health care setting (public versus private), socioeconomic status, and geographic location (regional versus metropolitan).

Results

We identified 45,775 patients receiving THR over the time period. For a woman age 20–29 years, the mortality‐adjusted lifetime risk rose significantly over time, from 8.49% (95% confidence interval [95% CI] 8.23–8.69%) in 1999–2000 to 10.30% (95% CI 10.07–10.49%) in 2007–2008. For a man age 20–29 years, the mortality‐adjusted lifetime risk also increased significantly, from 9.29% (95% CI 8.97–9.58%) in 1999–2000 to 10.27% (95% CI 9.95–10.48%) in 2004–2005, but in contrast to the pattern observed for women, it decreased slightly in 2007–2008 (9.90% [95% CI 9.60–10.16%]). We also identified an increasing number of THRs in private hospitals, in people in middle and low socioeconomic groups, and in rural areas.

Conclusion

The lifetime risk of THR for women was similar to men, despite a higher burden of hip osteoarthritis, and this warrants further investigation. However, increases in the number of THR procedures performed for patients in regional areas and in lower socioeconomic groups suggest some reductions over time in known disparities.
25‐Hydroxyvitamin D and Cardiovascular Disease in Patients With Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: Data From a Large International Inception Cohort
Authors: Lertratanakul Apinya , Wu Peggy , Dyer Alan , Urowitz Murray , Gladman Dafna , Fortin Paul , Bae Sang‐Cheol , Gordon Caroline , Clarke Ann , Bernatsky Sasha , Hanly John G. , Isenberg David , Rahman Anisur , Merrill Joan , Wallace Daniel J. , Ginzler Ellen , Khamashta Munther , Bruce Ian , Nived Ola , Sturfelt Gunnar , Steinsson Kristjan , Manzi Susan , Dooley Mary Anne , Kalunian Kenneth , Petri Michelle , Aranow Cynthia , Font Josep , van Vollenhoven Ronald , Stoll Thomas , Ramsey‐Goldman Rosalind
Published: January 2014

Objective

An association between 25‐hydroxyvitamin D (25[OH]D; vitamin D) deficiency and increased cardiovascular (CV) risk factors and CV disease (CVD) has been shown in general population studies. Vitamin D deficiency has been noted in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), and CVD is a major cause of morbidity and mortality in SLE. The objectives of this study were to estimate the associations of 25(OH)D levels with CV risk factors and to determine whether low baseline 25(OH)D levels predict future CV events in patients participating in an international inception cohort.

Methods

Data were collected on 890 participants, including demographics, SLE activity and damage assessments, CV risk factors and events, medications, laboratory assessments of 25(OH)D levels, and inflammatory markers. Multiple logistic and Cox regressions were used to estimate the associations of baseline 25(OH)D levels with baseline CV risk factors and CVD events. The models were adjusted for age, sex, race, season, and country, with and without body mass index.

Results

Patients in the higher quartiles of 25(OH)D were less likely to have hypertension and hyperlipidemia and were more likely to have lower C‐reactive protein levels and lower Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Disease Activity Index 2000 scores at baseline when compared with the first quartile. Vitamin D levels were not independently associated with CVD event incidence; however, hazard ratios for CVD event incidence decreased with successively higher quartiles.

Conclusion

Lower baseline 25(OH)D levels are associated with higher risk for CV risk factors and more active SLE at baseline. There may be a trend toward a lower likelihood of CVD events in those with higher baseline 25(OH)D levels.
Canadian Estimates of Health Care Utilization Costs for Rheumatoid Arthritis Patients With and Without Therapy With Biologic Agents
Authors: Ohinmaa Arto E. , Thanh Nguyen X. , Barnabe Cheryl , Martin Liam , Russell Anthony S. , Barr Susan G. , Maksymowych Walter P.
Published: January 2014

Objective

To provide Canadian estimates of health care utilization costs associated with rheumatoid arthritis (RA)–related and non–RA‐related care within 4 treatment strategies and in different physical functioning categories.

Methods

In the Alberta Rheumatoid Arthritis Biologics Pharmacosurveillance Program, clinical data were linked with provincial health care administrative databases to estimate health care costs. A propensity score matching technique was used to evaluate annual costs across 4 treatment strategies: 1) remaining on disease‐modifying antirheumatic drugs and not progressing to therapy with a biologic agent (n = 75), 2) progressing to biologic agents (n = 68), 3) initiation and stabilization on a first anti–tumor necrosis factor agent (n = 731), or 4) requiring a switch to another biologic agent (n = 212). Costs were examined across levels of function and by cost attribution category (directly related to RA or not).

Results

Of 1,222 patients, 1,086 had at least 3 months of administrative data. The mean annual total cost per patient was $5,531 (median $2,568), and $2,349 (median $0) was accounted for by hospitalizations, $1,716 (median $1,358) by physician visits, and $1,465 (median $949) by emergency room and other outpatient visits. Of these costs, 41% was directly related to RA itself or associated comorbidities. The importance of physical function as a determinant of health care utilization was evident, with the annual mean cost for those with low functional disability as measured by a Health Assessment Questionnaire (HAQ) score <0.5 was $4,157 compared to $14,225 for those with a HAQ score >2.0 indicating high disability.

Conclusion

Health care costs for RA can be minimized by aiming for better disease control and maintaining physical function.
Identification of Risk Factors for Elevated Transaminases in Methotrexate Users Through an Electronic Health Record
Authors: Schmajuk Gabriela , Miao Yinghui , Yazdany Jinoos , Boscardin W. John , Daikh David I. , Steinman Michael A.
Published: January 2014

Objective

To determine the predictors of elevated transaminases in an incident user cohort of older adult patients with rheumatic diseases receiving methotrexate (MTX) using elements derived from an electronic health record.

Methods

Using a national, administrative database of patients seen through the Veterans Health Administration that included pharmacy and laboratory data, we performed an observational cohort study of veterans ages ≥65 years who were new users of MTX to identify risk factors for elevated transaminases.

Results

We studied 659 incident users of MTX. We found a 6% incidence of moderate (≥1.5 × the upper limit of normal) elevations in aspartate aminotransferase or alanine aminotransferase over a mean followup period of 7 months. We identified predictors of moderate transaminase elevations to include obesity (per body mass index ≥30 kg/m2), total cholesterol >240 mg/dl, pre‐MTX liver function test (LFT) elevations, use of biologic agents, and lack of folic acid supplementation. A patient with these characteristics and >3 comorbid conditions would be predicted to have a 90% chance of developing a moderate transaminase elevation in the 7 months after starting MTX.

Conclusion

Moderate LFT abnormalities were uncommon in the first 7 months of MTX use, but were more likely to occur in patients with obesity, untreated high cholesterol, pre‐MTX LFT elevations, biologic agent use, and lack of folic acid supplementation. Future work should aim to develop a robust, automated prediction rule for identifying patients at high risk for MTX‐related liver toxicity.
Grain Boundary Phenomena in an Ultrafine‐Grained Al–Zn Alloy with Improved Mechanical Behavior for Micro‐Devices
Authors: Chinh Nguyen Q. , Valiev Ruslan Z. , Sauvage Xavier , Varga Gábor , Havancsák Károly , Kawasaki Megumi , Straumal Boris B. , Langdon Terence G.
Published: January 2014

Abstracts

The microstructural and mechanical properties of an ultrafine‐grained (UFG) Al–Zn alloy processed by high‐pressure torsion (HPT) are investigated using depth‐sensing indentations, focused ion beam, scanning electron microscopy and scanning transmission electron microscopy. Emphasis is placed on the microstructure and the effects of grain boundaries at room temperature. The experiments show the formation of Zn‐rich layers at the Al/Al grain boundaries that enhance the role of grain boundary sliding leading to unique plastic behavior in this UFG material. The occurrence of significant grain boundary sliding at room temperature is demonstrated by deforming micro‐pillars. Our results illustrate a potential for using UFG materials as advanced functional materials in electronic micro‐devices.
Targeting‐Triggered Porphysome Nanostructure Disruption for Activatable Photodynamic Therapy
Authors: Jin Cheng S. , Cui Liyang , Wang Fan , Chen Juan , Zheng Gang
Published: January 2014

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) and photothermal therapy (PTT) possess advantages over the conventional therapies with additional treatment selectivity achieved with local laser irradiation. Comparing to PTT that ablates target tissue via thermal necrosis, PDT induces target cell death via singlet oxygen without damaging the underling connective tissue, thus preserving its biological function. Activatable photosensitizers provide an additional level of treatment selectivity via the disease‐associated activation mechanism. In this study, folate‐conjugated porphysomes are introduced as targeting‐triggered activatable nano‐sized beacons for PDT. Porphysomes are reported previously as the most stable and efficient delivery system of porphyrin, but their nanostructure converts the singlet oxygen generation mechanism to thermal ablation mechanism. By folate‐receptor‐mediated endocytosis, folate‐porphysomes are internalized into cells rapidly and resulted in efficient disruption of nanostructures, thus switching back on the photodynamic activity of the densely packed porphyrins for effective PDT. In both in vitro and in vivo studies, folate‐porphysomes can achieve folate receptor‐selective PDT efficacy, which proves the robustness of targeting‐triggered PDT activation of porphysome nanostructure for highly selective tumor ablation. The formulation of porphysomes can be modified with other targeting ligands as activatable photosensitizers for personalized treatment in future.
Lithium Intercalation Behavior in Multilayer Silicon Electrodes
Authors: Fister Tim T. , Esbenshade Jennifer , Chen Xiao , Long Brandon R. , Shi Bing , Schlepütz Christian M. , Gewirth Andrew A. , Bedzyk Michael J. , Fenter Paul
Published: January 2014

Next generation lithium battery materials will require a fundamental shift from those based on intercalation to elements or compounds that alloy directly with lithium. Intermetallics, for instance, can electrochemically alloy to Li4.4M (M = Si, Ge, Sn, etc.), providing order‐of‐magnitude increases in energy density. Unlike the stable crystal structure of intercalation materials, intermetallic‐based electrodes undergo dramatic volume changes that rapidly degrade the performance of the battery. Here, the energy density of silicon is combined with the structural reversibility of an intercalation material using a silicon/metal‐silicide multilayer. In operando X‐ray reflectivity confirms the multilayer's structural reversibility during lithium insertion and extraction, despite an overall 3.3‐fold vertical expansion. The multilayer electrodes also show enhanced long‐term cyclability and rate capabilities relative to a comparable silicon thin film electrode. This intercalation behavior found by dimensionally constraining silicon's lithiation promises applicability to a wide range of conversion reactions.
α‐Oligofurans: An Emerging Class of Conjugated Oligomers for Organic Electronics
Authors: Gidron Ori , Bendikov Michael
Published: January 2014

While the field of organic electronics has developed extensively in recent years, it remains limited by number of materials available. Further expansion requires the innovation of new types of π‐conjugated backbones, but suitable candidates are discovered only very rarely. The recent introduction of a new class of conjugated materials, long α‐oligofurans, was therefore greeted with considerable interest. α‐Oligofurans possess many of the properties required to excel in applications as organic electronic materials, can be manufactured from renewable resources, and are expected to be biodegradable. This Minireview provides an account of long oligofurans from the perspectives of their synthesis, molecular properties, chemical reactivity, and use in electronic devices.
Chemosensing Ensembles for Monitoring Biomembrane Transport in Real Time
Authors: Ghale Garima , Lanctôt Adrienne G. , Kreissl Hannah T. , Jacob Maik H. , Weingart Helge , Winterhalter Mathias , Nau Werner M.
Published: January 2014

The efficacy of drugs and biomolecules relies on their ability to pass through the bilayer. The development of methods to directly and sensitively monitor these membrane transport processes has remained an experimental challenge. A macrocyclic host (p‐sulfonatocalix[4]arene or cucurbit[7]uril) and a fluorescent dye (lucigenin or berberine) are encapsulated as a chemosensing ensemble inside liposomes, which allows for a direct, real‐time fluorescence monitoring of the passage of unlabeled bioorganic analytes. This in vitro assay is transferable to different channel proteins and analytes, has potential for fluorescence‐based screening, e.g., of channel modulators, and yields the absolute kinetics of translocation. Using this new biophysical method, we observed for the first time direct rapid translocation of protamine, an antimicrobial peptide, through the bacterial transmembrane protein OmpF.
Micro‐nanostructured silicone‐carbon composite coatings with superhydrophobicity and photoluminescence prepared by oxidative chemical vapor deposition
Authors: Shen Zhimei , Hou Chengcheng , Liu Shishuai , Guan Zisheng
Published: January 2014

Transparent, superhydrophobic, and colored silicone–carbon composite coatings were prepared by oxidative chemical vapor deposition (oCVD) of bulk silicone at ambient pressure. The colors, wettability, morphologies, and transparency of the coatings can be easily varied via changing both the concentration of gaseous oxygen and the deposition temperature. Typically, the black, brown, and yellow silicone–carbon composite coatings with different superhydrophobicity and transparency were achieved under oxygen‐deficient atmospheres. Furthermore, the colored samples showed photoluminescence when they were excited by ultraviolet (UV) light, which is due to the fluorescence of carbons embedded inside the as‐prepared coatings. In addition, more regular papillae and nanofibers with excellent superhydrophobicity were obtained at higher deposition temperatures. Our method was believed to develop a new strategy for fabricating multifunctional silicone–carbon composite coatings. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2014, 131, 40400.
Imidazolium and deep eutectic ionic liquids as epoxy resin crosslinkers and graphite nanoplatelets dispersants
Authors: Mąka Honorata , Spychaj Tadeusz , Kowalczyk Krzysztof
Published: January 2014

Two types of ionic liquids (IL), i.e., molecular ionic 1‐butyl‐3‐methylimidazolium thiocyanate ([BMIM]SCN) and deep eutectic solvent (DES) based on choline chloride and tris(hydroxymethyl)propane, as well as their mixture have been used as epoxy resin curing agents. [BMIM]SCN showed the highest catalytic activity toward epoxy resin polymerization as compared to up today used ILs. Curing process of epoxy resin was investigated at ambient temperature (storage time up to more than 60 days) and elevated temperatures (80–200°C) using rheometry and DSC techniques. Thermomechanical analysis allowed to determine an influence of IL type and content on composites crosslinking density, glass transition temperature, and tan δ values. Graphite nanoplatelets (GNP) was dispersed in DES and then in DES/IL/epoxy resin composition prepared, cast, and cured to obtain nanocomposite material. Electrical volume resistivity of the nanocomposites with 0.25–1 wt % GNP increased with nanofiller content up to the highest value of 2.8 × 106 Ω · cm. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2014, 131, 40401.
“One‐pot” synthesis of well‐defined functional copolymer and its application as tumor‐targeting nanocarrier in drug delivery
Authors: Wang Chenhong , Qiao Lei , Yan Husheng , Liu Keliang
Published: January 2014

A one‐pot synthesis is developed for PEG600‐b‐poly(glycerol monoacrylate) (PEG600‐b‐PGA), by which folate and superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPIONs) are assembled to form folic acid‐conjugated magnetic nanoparticles (FA‐MNPs) as a tumor targeting system. The synthesis consists of a “click” reaction and atom transfer radical polymerization (ATRP) to obtain the well‐defined furan‐protected maleimido‐terminated PEG600‐b‐poly(solketal acrylate) (PEG600‐b‐PSA) copolymer. After deprotection, the key copolymer N‐maleimido‐terminated PEG600‐b‐PGA is successfully conjugated with thiol derivatives of folate and FITC, respectively. FA‐MNPs are developed by assembling of the resulting polymer FA‐PEG600‐b‐PGA with SPIONs, and characterized for their size, surface charge, and superparamagnetic properties. To investigate the cellular uptake of the nanoparticles by Hela cells and φ2 cells using fluoresce technique, FA‐FITC‐MNPs are also obtained by assembling of FA‐PEG600‐b‐PGA, FITC‐PEG600‐b‐PGA with SPIONs. Qualitative and quantitative determinations of FA‐FITC‐MNPs show that the particles specifically internalized to Hela cells. No significant cytotoxicity is observed for these two kinds of cell lines. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2014, 131, 40405.
Effect of the molecular weight between crosslinks of thermally cured epoxy resins on the CO2‐bubble nucleation in a batch physical foaming process
Authors: Ito Akihiro , Semba Takeshi , Taki Kentaro , Ohshima Masahiro
Published: January 2014

Epoxy resins (bisphenol A type epoxy resins/2‐ethyl‐4‐methylimidazole) consisting of oligomers with different molecular weights were foamed using a temperature‐quench physical foaming method with CO2. The resulting cell morphologies could be classified into four types: non‐foamed structure, cracked structure, star‐shaped structure, and sphere‐shaped structure. The effects of the gel fraction and molecular weight between crosslinks (MC) on the cell morphology were investigated for the preparation of microcellular epoxy foams. MC was calculated by measuring the plateau rubber modulus of the rheological properties and the weight uptake of acetone. By varying the molecular weight of the epoxy oligomers and the cure time, the MC of the epoxy was controlled to modulate the cell morphology. The experiments elucidated the threshold MC value that permits CO2‐bubble nucleation: CO2‐bubble nucleation in the epoxy resin could be induced when the distance between the crosslinking points exceeded the critical size of bubble nucleus. Based on this information, the microcellular epoxy foam was prepared by maintaining MC above 104g mol−1 and the complex modulus above 6 × 108 Pa. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2014, 131, 40407.
Enhancing the mechanical and thermal properties of polyacrylonitrile through blending with tea polyphenol
Authors: Feng Lei , Li Jin‐Fan , Ye Jia‐Ru , Song Wei , Jia Jun , Shen Qing
Published: January 2014

Several polyacrylonitrile (PAN)/tea polyphenol (TP) blends were prepared with various mixing weight ratios (percentage). With a commercial acrylonitrile–butadiene–styrene (ABS) as reference, the results show that the PAN/TP blends with 12.5 wt % TP had a better antiwear ability and similar hardness to those of ABS. All of the prepared PAN/TP blends showed a lower impact strength than the referenced ABS. However, some values were indeed higher than those reported for engineering materials in the literature, for example, polystyrenes and some ABS blends. Differential scanning calorimetry, differential thermogravimetry, and dynamic mechanical analysis indicated that the PAN/TP blends had enhanced the thermal stability compared to the pure PAN. Fourier transform infrared spectral analysis suggested that the H bonds increased in the PAN/TP blends. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2014, 131, 40411.
Design and synthesis of zero–zero‐birefringence polymers using N‐methylmaleimide
Authors: Beppu Shotaro , Iwasaki Shuhei , Shafiee Houran , Tagaya Akihiro , Koike Yasuhiro
Published: January 2014

Zero–zero‐birefringence polymers which exhibit no orientational birefringence and no photoelastic birefringence may be suitable candidates for the components of optical devices. To develop zero–zero‐birefringence polymers, a novel copolymerization system is required. We investigated two types of birefringence of poly(N‐methylmaleimide) (PMeMI) and showed that PMeMI exhibits positive orientational and photoelastic birefringence. On the basis of the results, we calculated the optimal composition for compensating both types of birefringence by solving three equations which describe the relationship between birefringence properties and weight fraction of monomers. When the copolymer compositions were MMA/BzMA/MeMI = 86/8/6 and 88/8/4 (wt %), zero–zero‐birefringence polymers were obtained. By using MeMI as a comonomer, these zero–zero‐birefringence polymers have a much higher glass transition temperature (Tg) than those of previous researches. Also, this polymer film has high transparency comparable with that of PMMA film. Therefore, we conclude that we successfully prepared zero–zero‐birefringence polymers using N‐substituted maleimide and that N‐substituted maleimide is a promising material for zero–zero‐birefringence polymers for optical devices. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2014, 131, 40423.
Biodegradable polymersomes from four‐arm PEG‐b‐PDLLA for encapsulating hemoglobin
Authors: Li Wenliang , Zhang Wenjing , Yang Xiuyun , Xie Zhigang , Jing Xiabin
Published: January 2014

A series of four‐arm star block copolymers poly(ethylene glycol)‐block‐poly(d,l‐lactide) (PEG‐PDLLA) with different hydrophobic length were synthesized by ring‐opening polymerization of lactide and characterized using 1H NMR and gel permeation chromatography (GPC). These copolymers could self‐assemble in aqueous solution to form the vesicle structure with controlled size and morphologies. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and DLS show the polymersomes are spherical with diameter of 70∼500 nm. The polymersomes made by direct hydration of copolymer thin films in water exhibit the controllable ability of encapsulating hemoglobin under mild condition. The hemoglobin content in the polymersomes could reach to 35 wt %. More importantly, the encapsulated hemoglobin keeps its own bioactivity and is capable of binding oxygen. This hemoglobin‐encapsulated four‐arm PEG‐PLA polymersomes could have the potential to be applied as an artificial oxygen carrier for transfusion. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2014, 131, 40433.
Human Secreted Stabilin‐1−Interacting Chitinase‐like Protein Aggravates the Inflammation Associated With Rheumatoid Arthritis and Is a Potential Macrophage Inflammatory Regulator in Rodents
Authors: Xiao Weichun , Meng Geng , Zhao Yanmei , Yuan Huihui , Li Tingting , Peng Yanyan , Zhao Yong , Luo Ming , Zhao Wenming , Li Zhanguo , Zheng Xiaofeng
Published: January 2014

Objective

To study the relationship between the human secreted protein stabilin‐1−interacting chitinase‐like protein (SI‐CLP) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

Methods

The expression of SI‐CLP in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) and synovial fluid from patients with RA and the effects of cytokines on SI‐CLP expression were examined by Western blotting. Fluorescence‐activated cell sorting analysis was performed to investigate the binding between SI‐CLP and cells. Bone marrow–derived macrophages were isolated from wild‐type and SI‐CLP−/− mice, and real‐time quantitative polymerase chain reaction was performed to detect the levels of messenger RNA for cytokines or SI‐CLP in SI‐CLP− or cytokine‐treated macrophages. Histologic studies were conducted to evaluate inflammation and the expression of interleukin‐12 (IL‐12), IL‐13, and SI‐CLP in lesions. Enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assays were used to detect the cytokine levels in bone marrow–derived macrophages. Rats or mice with collagen‐induced arthritis (CIA) and SI‐CLP−/− mice were used to study the function of SI‐CLP in RA.

Results

SI‐CLP expression was increased in PBMCs and detectable in synovial fluid from patients with RA. Administration of SI‐CLP to rats with CIA aggravated arthritis‐associated inflammation. SI‐CLP was specifically attached to the surface protein of macrophages, which elevated the expression of IL‐1β, IL‐6, IL‐12, and IL‐13 in macrophages and mouse bone marrow–derived macrophages, up‐regulating ERK phosphorylation. Moreover, SI‐CLP was up‐regulated by both IL‐12 and IL‐13 through JNK and JAK/STAT signaling, respectively. Knockout of SI‐CLP resulted in a decrease in the expression of IL‐1β, IL‐6, IL‐12, and IL‐13 and lower susceptibility to CIA compared with wild‐type mice. SI‐CLP treatment also aggravated arthritis‐related inflammation in wild‐type and SI‐CLP−/− mice.

Conclusion

SI‐CLP functions as a regulator of the inflammatory response by macrophages. The decrease in inflammation‐associated cytokine levels resulting from SI‐CLP knockout may explain the lower susceptibility to CIA in SI‐CLP−/− mice.
Decreased Interleukin‐20 Expression in Scleroderma Skin Contributes to Cutaneous Fibrosis
Authors: Kudo Hideo , Jinnin Masatoshi , Asano Yoshihide , Trojanowska Maria , Nakayama Wakana , Inoue Kuniko , Honda Noritoshi , Kajihara Ikko , Makino Katsunari , Fukushima Satoshi , Ihn Hironobu
Published: January 2014

Objective

To clarify the role of interleukin‐20 (IL‐20) in the regulatory mechanism of extracellular matrix expression and to determine the contribution of IL‐20 to the phenotype of systemic sclerosis (SSc).

Methods

Protein and messenger RNA (mRNA) levels of collagen, Fli‐1, IL‐20, and IL‐20 receptor (IL‐20R) were analyzed using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) array, immunoblotting, immunohistochemical staining, enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay, and real‐time PCR.

Results

PCR array revealed that IL‐20 decreased gene expression of α2(I) collagen (0.03‐fold), Smad3 (0.02‐fold), and endoglin (0.05‐fold) in cultured normal dermal fibroblasts. Fli‐1 protein expression was induced by IL‐20 (∼2‐fold). The inhibition of collagen by IL‐20, the induction of Fli‐1 by IL‐20, and the reduction of Smad3 and endoglin by IL‐20 were also observed in SSc fibroblasts. Serum IL‐20 levels were reduced only slightly in SSc patients but were significantly decreased in patients with scleroderma spectrum disorders (the prodromal stage of SSc) compared with those in normal subjects (111.3 pg/ml versus 180.4 pg/ml; P < 0.05). On the other hand, IL‐20 mRNA expression in SSc skin was decreased compared with that in normal skin (P < 0.05), which may result in the induction of collagen synthesis in SSc dermal fibroblasts. IL‐20R was expressed in normal and SSc fibroblasts. Moreover, IL‐20 supplementation by injection into the skin reversed skin fibrosis induced by bleomycin in mice (∼0.5‐fold).

Conclusion

IL‐20 reduces basal collagen transcription via Fli‐1 induction, while down‐regulation of Smad3 and endoglin may cancel the effect of transforming growth factor β in SSc fibroblasts. To confirm the therapeutic value of IL‐20 and IL‐20R, their function and expression in vivo should be further studied.
Integrating microalgae production with anaerobic digestion: a biorefinery approach
Authors: Uggetti Enrica , Sialve Bruno , Trably Eric , Steyer Jean‐Philippe
Published: January 2014

In the energy and chemical sectors, alternative production chains should be considered in order to simultaneously reduce the dependence on oil and mitigate climate change. Biomass is probably the only viable alternative to fossil resources for production of liquid transportation fuels and chemicals since, besides fossils, it is one of the only available sources of carbon‐rich material on Earth. Over recent years, interest in microalgae biomass has grown in both fundamental and applied research fields. The biorefinery concept includes different technologies able to convert biomass into added‐value chemicals, products (food and feed) and biofuels (biodiesel, bioethanol, biohydrogen). As in oil refinery, a biorefinery aims at producing multiple products, maximizing the value derived from differences in biomass components, including microalgae. This paper provides an overview of the various microalgae‐derived products, focusing on anaerobic digestion for conversion of microalgal biomass into methane. Special attention is paid to the range of possible inputs for anaerobic digestion (microalgal biomass and microalgal residue after lipid extraction) and the outputs resulting from the process (e.g. biogas and digestate). The strong interest in microalgae anaerobic digestion lies in its ability to mineralize microalgae containing organic nitrogen and phosphorus, resulting in a flux of ammonium and phosphate that can then be used as substrate for growing microalgae or that can be further processed to produce fertilizers. At present, anaerobic digestion outputs can provide nutrients,CO2and water to cultivate microalgae, which in turn, are used as substrate for methane and fertilizer generation. © 2014 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd
Systematic review of outcomes used to evaluate enhanced recovery after surgery
Authors: Neville A , Lee L , Antonescu I , Mayo N E , Vassiliou M C , Fried G M , Feldman L S
Published: January 2014

Background

Enhanced recovery pathways (ERPs) aim to improve patient recovery. However, validated outcome measures to evaluate this complex process are lacking. The objective of this review was to identify how recovery is measured in ERP studies and to provide recommendations for the design of future studies.

Methods

A systematic search of MEDLINE, Embase and Cochrane databases was conducted. Prospective studies evaluating ERPs compared with traditional care in abdominal surgery published between 2000 and 2013 were included. All reported outcomes were classified into categories: biological and physiological variables, symptom status, functional status, general health perceptions and quality of life (QoL). The phase of recovery measured was defined as baseline, intermediate (in hospital) and late (following discharge).

Results

A total of 38 studies were included based on the systematic review criteria. Biological or physiological variables other than postoperative complications were reported in 30 studies, and included return of gastrointestinal function (25 studies), pulmonary function (5) and physical strength (3). Patient-reported symptoms, including pain (16 studies) and fatigue (9), were reported less commonly. Reporting of functional status outcomes, including mobilization (16 studies) and ability to perform activities of daily living (4), was similarly uncommon. Health aspects of QoL were reported in only seven studies. Length of follow-up was generally short, with 24 studies reporting outcomes within 30 days or less. All studies documented in-hospital outcomes (intermediate phase), but only 17 reported postdischarge outcomes (late phase) other than complications or readmission.

Conclusion

Patient-reported outcomes, particularly postdischarge functional status, were not commonly reported. Future studies of the effectiveness of ERPs should include validated, patient-reported outcomes to estimate better their impact on recovery, particularly after discharge from hospital.
Outcomes after laparoscopic conversion of failed adjustable gastric banding to sleeve gastrectomy or Roux-en-Y gastric bypass
Authors: Marin-Perez P , Betancourt A , Lamota M , Lo Menzo E , Szomstein S , Rosenthal R
Published: January 2014

Background

Laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LAGB) has a high incidence of long-term complications and failures. The best procedure to handle these failures and the optimal number of stages in such cases is still controversial. The aim of this retrospective study was to compare the results of conversions of LAGB to either laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) or laparoscopic Roux-en-Ygastric bypass (LRYGB) in failed LAGB using a single-stage approach.

Methods

All patients who underwent conversion from LAGB to either LRYGB or LSG between January 2005 and March 2012 were included in the study. Early and late complications were reviewed. The percentage excess weight loss (%EWL) between the two groups was compared at 3, 6, 12 and 24 months of follow-up.

Results

Fifty-nine patients, 11 men and 48 women, were included in the study. The most frequent indication was insufficient weight loss or weight regain (non-responders group), in 44 patients (75 per cent); 15 patients had a revision for complicated LAGB. The early complication rate in the non-responders group was 7 per cent (3 of 44 patients), compared with 13 per cent (2 of 15) in the complicated LAGB group. Mean(s.d.) %EWL in the non-responders group was 55(22) per cent in patients converted to LRYGB and 28(25) in those converted to LSG (P = 0·001).

Conclusion

LRYGB and LSG are both safe and feasible options for failed or complicated LAGB. In the non-responders group, %EWL was superior for conversion to LRYGB. The surgical morbidity rate was highest in patients having revision for band complications.
New applications of recurrent relations: precalculation of pKa values of substituted alkanecarboxylic acids
Authors: Zenkevich Igor G.
Published: January 2014

The series of substituted alkanecarboxylic acids including insertion homologues of ω‐substituted acids X(CH2)nCO2H (n ≥ 1) and isomers that differ in the position of substituents X in the alkyl fragments, k‐X(CnH2n)CO2H (n = const ≥ 1, 1 ≤ k ≤ n + 1) is the sub‐group most poorly characterized by their acidity constants, pKa, comparing with the acids of the other sub‐groups. When the experimental data for such compounds are unavailable, the precalculated estimates should be taken into consideration.

The pKa values for such acids can be calculated using the single first‐order recurrent relation, pKa(n + 1) = apKa(n) + b, using pKa values of other (usually the simpler and, consequently, better characterized) homologues and/or isomers of the same series. This algorithm results from the unique mathematical properties of recurrent relations in chemistry. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Combining Complementary Ligands into one Framework for the Construction of a Ferromagnetically Coupled [MnIII12] Wheel
Authors: Sanz Sergio , Frost Jamie M. , Rajeshkumar Thayalan , Dalgarno Scott J. , Rajaraman Gopalan , Wernsdorfer Wolfgang , Schnack Jürgen , Lusby Paul. J. , Brechin Euan K.
Published: January 2014

Phenolic oxime and diethanolamine moieties have been combined into one organic framework, resulting in the formation of a novel ligand type that can be employed to construct a rare and unusual dodecametallic Mn wheel, within which nearest neighbours are coupled ferromagnetically.
Enantiomeric Separation and Simulation Studies of Pheniramine, Oxybutynin, Cetirizine, and Brinzolamide Chiral Drugs on Amylose‐Based Columns
Authors: Ali Imran , Al‐Othman Zeid A. , Al‐Warthan Abdulrahman , Alam Syed Dilshad , Farooqi Javed A.
Published: January 2014

Solid phase extraction (SPE)‐chiral separation of the important drugs pheniramine, oxybutynin, cetirizine, and brinzolamide was achieved on the C18 cartridge and AmyCoat (150 x 46 mm) and Chiralpak AD (25 cm x 0.46 cm id) chiral columns in human plasma. Pheniramine, oxybutynin, cetirizine, and brinzolamide were resolved using n‐hexane‐2‐PrOH‐DEA (85:15:0.1, v/v), n‐hexane‐2‐PrOH‐DEA (80:20:0.1, v/v), n‐hexane‐2‐PrOH‐DEA (70:30:0.2, v/v), and n‐hexane‐2‐propanol (90:10, v/v) as mobile phases. The separation was carried out at 25 ± 1 ºC temperature with detection at 225 nm for cetirizine and oxybutynin and 220 nm for pheniramine and brinzolamide. The flow rates of the mobile phases were 0.5 mLmin‐1. The retention factors of pheniramine, oxybutynin, cetirizine and brinzolamide were 3.25 and 4.34, 4.76 and 5.64, 6.10 and 6.60, and 1.64 and 2.01, respectively. The separation factors of these drugs were 1.33, 1.18, 1.09 and 1.20 while their resolutions factors were 1.09, 1.45, 1.63 and 1.25, and 1.15, respectively. The absolute configurations of the eluted enantiomers of the reported drugs were determined by simulation studies. It was observed that the order of enantiomers elution of the reported drugs was S‐pheniramine > R‐pheniramine; R‐oxybutynin > S‐oxybutynin; S‐cetirizine > R‐cetirizine; and S‐brinzolamide > R‐brinzolamide. The mechanism of separation was also determined at the supramolecular level by considering interactions and modeling results. The reported SPE‐chiral high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) methods are suitable for the enantiomeric analyses of these drugs in any biological sample. In addition, simulation studies may be used to determine the absolute configuration of the first and second eluted enantiomers. Chirality 26:136–143, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Diffusion properties of conventional and calcium‐sensitive MRI contrast agents in the rat cerebral cortex
Authors: Hagberg Gisela E. , Mamedov Ilgar , Power Anthony , Beyerlein Michael , Merkle Hellmut , Kiselev Valerij G. , Dhingra Kirti , Kubìček Vojtĕch , Angelovski Goran , Logothetis Nikos K.
Published: January 2014

Calcium‐sensitive MRI contrast agents can only yield quantitative results if the agent concentration in the tissue is known. The agent concentration could be determined by diffusion modeling, if relevant parameters were available. We have established an MRI‐based method capable of determining diffusion properties of conventional and calcium‐sensitive agents. Simulations and experiments demonstrate that the method is applicable both for conventional contrast agents with a fixed relaxivity value and for calcium‐sensitive contrast agents. The full pharmacokinetic time‐course of gadolinium concentration estimates was observed by MRI before, during and after intracerebral administration of the agent, and the effective diffusion coefficient D* was determined by voxel‐wise fitting of the solution to the diffusion equation. The method yielded whole brain coverage with a high spatial and temporal sampling. The use of two types of MRI sequences for sampling of the diffusion time courses was investigated: Look–Locker‐based quantitative T1 mapping, and T1‐weighted MRI. The observation times of the proposed MRI method is long (up to 20 h) and consequently the diffusion distances covered are also long (2–4 mm). Despite this difference, the D* values in vivo were in agreement with previous findings using optical measurement techniques, based on observation times of a few minutes. The effective diffusion coefficient determined for the calcium‐sensitive contrast agents may be used to determine local tissue concentrations and to design infusion protocols that maintain the agent concentration at a steady state, thereby enabling quantitative sensing of the local calcium concentration. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Sensitivity enhancement of (Hyper‐)CEST image series by exploiting redundancies in the spectral domain
Authors: Döpfert Jörg , Witte Christopher , Kunth Martin , Schröder Leif
Published: January 2014

CEST has proven to be a valuable technique for the detection of hyperpolarized xenon‐based functionalized contrast agents. Additional information can be encoded in the spectral dimension, allowing the simultaneous detection of multiple different biosensors. However, owing to the low concentration of dissolved xenon in biological tissue, the signal‐to‐noise ratio (SNR) of Hyper‐CEST data is still a critical issue. In this work, we present two techniques aiming to increase SNR by exploiting the typically high redundancy in spectral CEST image series: PCA‐based post‐processing and sub‐sampled acquisition with low‐rank reconstruction. Each of them yields a significant SNR enhancement, demonstrating the feasibility of the two approaches. While the first method is directly applicable to proton CEST experiments as well, the second one is particularly beneficial when dealing with hyperpolarized nuclei, since it distributes the non‐renewable initial polarization more efficiently over the sampling points. The results obtained are a further step towards the detection of xenon biosensors with spectral Hyper‐CEST imaging in vivo. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Clinical applications of spectral molecular imaging: potential and challenges
Authors: Anderson Nigel G. , Butler Anthony P.
Published: January 2014

Spectral molecular imaging is a new X‐ray‐based imaging technology providing highly specific 3D imaging at high spatial resolution that has the potential to measure disease activity and response to treatment noninvasively. The ability to identify and quantify components of tissue and biomarkers of disease activity derive from the properties of the photon‐processing detector. Multiple narrow sections of the energy spectrum are sampled simultaneously, providing a range of energy dependent Hounsfield units. As each material has a specific measurable X‐ray spectrum, spectroscopic imaging allows for multiple materials to be quantified and differentiated from each other simultaneously. The technology, currently in its infancy, is set to grow rapidly, much as magnetic resonance did. The critical clinical applications have not yet been established, but it is likely to play a major role in identifying and directing treatment for unstable atherosclerotic plaque, assessing activity and response to treatment of a range of inflammatory diseases, and monitoring biomarkers of cancer and its treatment. If combined with Positron‐emission tomography (PET), spectral molecular imaging could have a far greater effective role in cancer diagnosis and treatment monitoring than PET‐CT does at present. It is currently used for small animal and specimen imaging. There are many challenges to be overcome before spectral imaging can be introduced into clinical medicine – these include technological improvements to detector design, bonding to the semiconductor layer, image reconstruction and display software, identifying which biomarkers are of most relevance to the disease in question, and accelerating drug discovery enabled by the new capabilities provided by spectral imaging. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Multifunctional theranostic gold nanoparticles for targeted CT imaging and photothermal therapy
Authors: Curry Taeyjuana , Kopelman Raoul , Shilo Malka , Popovtzer Rachela
Published: January 2014

Gold nanoparticles have emerged as some of the most extensively utilized nanoplatforms for the diagnosis, imaging, monitoring and treatment of malignant diseases. In particular, in computed tomography (CT) imaging and in therapy (PTT), the exploitation of the various, advantageous properties of gold nanoparticles have resulted in numerous advances in each of these fields. The purpose of this review is to assess the status of gold‐nanoparticle mediated CT and PTT, highlight several promising outcomes and motivate the combination of these two functionalities in the same nanoparticle platform. The given examples of research based advances and the encouraging results of in vitro and in vivo studies provide much excitement and promise for future theranostic (therapy + diagnostic) clinical applications, as well as for image‐guided therapy and/or surgery, and their monitoring. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.