bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Brief Communication: CATALYST – a multi-regional stakeholder Think Tank for fostering capacity development in disaster risk reduction and climate change adaptation
Authors: Hare M. P. , van Bers C. , van der Keur P. , Henriksen H. J. , Luther J. , Kuhlicke C. , Jaspers F. , Terwisscha van Scheltinga C. , Mysiak J. , Calliari E. , Warner K. , Daniel H. , Coppola J. , McGrath P. F.
Published: August 2013

Abstract. This brief communication presents the on-going work and objectives of the CATALYST project on "Capacity Development for Hazard Risk Reduction and Adaptation" funded by the European Commission. CATALYST has set up a multi-regional Think Tank covering four regions (Central America and Caribbean, East and West Africa, the European Mediterranean, and South and South East Asia) and is intended to strengthen capacity development for stakeholders involved in disaster risk reduction (DRR) and climate change adaptation, in the context of natural hazards. This communication concludes with a selection of recommendations for capacity development in DRR and climate change adaptation from the perspective of governance issues.
Numerical simulation of levee breach by overtopping in a flume with 180° bend
Authors: Dou S.-T. , Wang D.-W. , Yu M.-H. , Liang Y.-J.
Published: August 2013

Abstract. Floods caused by levee breaching pose disastrous risks to the lower reaches and the flood flow zones of rivers. Thus, a comprehensive assessment of flow and sediment transport during floods must be performed to mitigate flood disasters. Given that the flow state becomes relatively more complex and the range of the submerged area becomes more extensive after a levee breach, this paper established a flow and sediment model by using two-dimensional shallow water equations (SWEs) to explore the break development process and the flow and sediment transport in a curved bed after a levee breach due to overtopping. A three-element weighted essentially non-oscillatory-Roe scheme was adopted for the discretization of SWEs. In addition, a non-equilibrium total-load sediment transport model was established to simulate the scour depth development process of the break. A stable equilibrium of the break was established based on flow shear force and soil shear strength. The lateral widening of the break was simulated by the scouring-collapse lateral widening mode. These simulations, together with the levee breach experiment conducted in the laboratory, demonstrate the validity of the flow and sediment transport process established in this paper. The effects of water-head in and out of the watercourse, the rate of flow, the levee sediment grading, and other variables during levee breaching were also analyzed. The mathematical model calculation provided a number of physical quantities, such as rate of flow and flow state at the break, that are difficult to measure by using the current laboratory facilities. The results of this research provide fundamental data for developing measures that can reduce casualties and asset loss due to floods caused by levee breaching.
Das escritas escolares às escritas de si: análise de cadernos diários de alunas da Educação de Jovens e Adultos - Florianópolis - 2008
Authors: Machado Marilane
Published: August 2013

O principal objetivo deste artigo é analisar dois cadernos de escrita diária de estudantes de um núcleo de Educação de Jovens e Adultos do município de Florianópolis no ano de 2008. Neste município, a EJA propõe uma metodologia de ensino baseada em projetos de pesquisa que partem do interesse e da realidade dos estudantes. Os cadernos aqui analisados são instrumentos de avaliação do curso, suportes de relatos elaborados diariamente por estudantes e respondidos por professores, que estabelecem, assim, diálogos através da escrita. Podemos, através deles, refletir sobre como esses instrumentos avaliativos deixam de ser suporte de uma escrita estritamente escolar e passam a ser suportes de uma escrita pessoal, constituinte de identidades e subjetividades, fontes privilegiadas para compreender dois dos principais campos historiográficos relacionados: a História da Cultura Escrita e a História da Educação. No âmbito da História da Cultura Escrita, grande importância se tem dado às escritas cotidianas ou “ordinárias”, que começaram a ser estudadas somente a partir da última década e são fontes privilegiadas para o conhecimento do cotidiano e dos fazeres de pessoas comuns. Numa posição complementar, pode-se pensar a História da Educação também a partir dessas fontes. Neste âmbito, os cadernos expressam a vida cotidiana em salas de aula, as práticas educativas que não constam em documentos oficiais ou livros e manuais didáticos, mas que demonstram como os processos educativos são apreendidos pela ótica do estudante, dando pistas para compreender determinada cultura escolar.
A poética do espaço: a escrita e a produção da paisagem dos verdes carnaubais assuenses (1950 - 1970)
Authors: Santos Roberg Januário , Barros Lucilvana Ferreira
Published: August 2013

Discute-se neste artigo a produção da paisagem dos verdes carnaubais assuenses mediante a escrita de escritores e poetas locais. Problematizam-se aqui os jogos de interesse e as possibilidades identitárias contidas na elaboração dessa paisagem da cidade do Assú, localizada no sertão do Rio Grande do Norte. Trata-se, portanto, de um estudo que pretende contribuir para o conhecimento das relações entre escrita, espaço e paisagem no âmbito do saber histórico. Parte-se do referencial teórico da análise do discurso de Foucault, que projeta a linguagem como pragmática, promotora de ações, responsável, inclusive, pela construção de objetos de saber e poder, aplicada aqui a paisagens. O método seguido é o arqueológico também de Foucault, pela oportunidade que oferece de tratar as escritas neste trabalho analisadas como enunciados e, por conseguinte, como acontecimentos discursivos. A conclusão preliminar é que os carnaubais serviram a escritores e poetas como ponto de apego para inventarem uma identidade assuense, uma identidade fabricada para (de)marcar um espaço, o “Assú dos verdes carnaubais”, uma construção interessada, pois os feitores desse espaço/paisagem objetivaram fornecer funcionalidade simbólica aos carnaubais, já que a matriz econômica deles advinda parecia se esvair. Além do mais, seu alçamento à condição de símbolo local traduz a iniciativa de apropriação de um “bem vegetal” em proveito de uma cidade.
No forjar das possibilidades: a “Krupp” Campo Limpo Paulista nos caminhos de trabalhadores (segunda metade do séc. XX e início do séc. XXI)
Authors: Freitas Sheille Soares
Published: August 2013

Este artigo apresenta ponderações sobre a trajetória de trabalhadores que vivenciaram o espaço de trabalho na ThyssenKrupp - Campo Limpo Paulista -, a partir de meados do século XX. O interesse é discutir o repertório de possibilidades de certos trabalhadores, analisando contradições e diferenciações nas memórias que guardam sobre relações de trabalho, associadas às condições de classe que compartilhavam, envolvendo relações entre campo e cidade, como também o processo de expansão industrial. Ao fazer isso, a proposta coloca em questão a suposta vivência homogeneizante do "ser metalúrgico" e a construção analítica fundamentada nas alterações estruturais na dinâmica do mundo do trabalho. As presentes reflexões tentam evidenciar as desigualdades e pressões que potencializam as práticas dos trabalhadores na sociedade capitalista e, ao mesmo tempo, destacam a exploração sofrida e como interpretam as relações e caminhos que decidem enfrentar.
Entre memória e história, filiação destruída, trauma, narrativa de vida e paixão por arquivos
Authors: Mouchenik Yoram
Published: August 2013

Minha intervenção relata aspectos de uma pesquisa, ou antes, de um convívio com um grupo particular pessoas que foram crianças judias que permaneceram escondidas na Franca durante a Ocupação e que sobreviveram ao genocídio, e que eu encontrei 60 anos depois. Meu argumento vai apoiar-se na minha participação nas atividades da Associação pela memória do Comboio Y, que elas criaram e cujas diferentes atividades eu segui, para depois realizar entrevistas com 16 participantes. Durante mais de quatro anos, acompanhei o grupo: as reuniões, as assembleias gerais, as viagens de comemoração no interior, em Paris e na Polônia, as exposições e as diferentes evoluções da associação criada pelo grupo. O grupo não se constituiu em razão de sua experiência dolorosa e singular de crianças judias escondidas na Franca durante a Ocupação, mas em nome da memória de seus pais deportados em julho de 1942, em sua maioria assassinados em Auschwitz. Perguntei-me o que estava em jogo no dinamismo dessas atitudes contemporâneas sobre traumas e desaparecimentos que datam mais de meio século, com o sentimento de que se reinstaurava uma possibilidade criativa de elaboração dos lutos e das perdas como autorizado ou legitimado pelo projeto de pesquisa sobre transmissão e uma paixão por arquivos.
A recusa do segredo: exercício de direitos e acesso a documentos público
Authors: Gonçalves Janice
Published: August 2013

A partir de situações relativamente recentes e polêmicas de disponibilização, na Internet (por meio do WikiLeaks), de grande volume de documentos sigilosos produzidos no âmbito de instâncias governamentais e referentes a diversos países, são discutidos aspectos históricos que envolvem o acesso à documentação arquivística de caráter público, sua utilização para a produção de conhecimento histórico e sua relevância para o exercício da cidadania e a consolidação de práticas democráticas. Aborda-se ainda, brevemente, o debate arquivístico acerca da avaliação de documentos de arquivo e sua relação com o tema do acesso aos arquivos.
Philippe Ariès e seus arquivos: da memória do historiador à do militante
Authors: Gros Guillaume
Published: August 2013

Este artigo tem como objetivo discutir a trajetória do historiador Philippe Ariès através da análise dos “arquivos Philippe Ariès” que foram reunidos no final dos anos 1990. Está dividido em três partes: na primeira parte foi feito uma breve exposição das grandes etapas do itinerário de Philippe Ariès entre a cultura política e a vocação de historiador; em um segundo momento foi aprofundado como se constituíram seus arquivos privilegiando a figura do historiador sem mascarar o militante, uma vez que as duas identidades são fortes. E por fim, analisaremos as condições da sua atualização e as tensões suscitadas pelo retorno da figura do militante sobre o historiador sobretudo com a recepção de suas obras póstumas a partir de 1986.
Caught in the act
Authors: Meyer Hermann-Josef , Rape Michael
Published: August 2013

The crystal structure of a HECT E3 enzyme has been captured as it transfers ubiquitin to a target protein, revealing the dramatic changes in shape that enable it to modify particular residues in its targets.
Patterns of Disease‐Modifying Antirheumatic Drug Use in Rheumatoid Arthritis Patients After 2002: A Systematic Review
Authors: Schmajuk Gabriela , Solomon Daniel H. , Yazdany Jinoos
Published: August 2013

Objective

To report and synthesize patterns of disease‐modifying antirheumatic drug (DMARD) use reported in observational studies of patients with established and early rheumatoid arthritis (RA) after publication of the American College of Rheumatology guidelines promoting universal DMARD use.

Methods

We searched PubMed for full‐length articles in English published between January 1, 2002 and October 1, 2012 that examined DMARD use. The data abstracted from articles included the patient characteristics, country of study, time period studied, patient source, and treating physician type. Study quality was assessed using a modified Newcastle‐Ottawa Quality Assessment Scale.

Results

We reviewed 1,287 abstracts; 98 full‐length articles were selected for additional review and 27 studies describing 28 cohorts of patients were included. Twelve studies described data from cohorts of patients with established RA, and DMARD use in this group of studies ranged from 73–100%. Five studies described data from patients sourced through administrative data and demonstrated consistently lower DMARD use, ranging from 30–63%. Three studies conducted population‐based surveys to define cases of RA where DMARD use ranged from 47–73%. Eight studies investigated patients with early RA. DMARD use among patients followed by rheumatologists ranged from 77–98%, whereas DMARD use reported for patients seen by a mix of physicians was significantly lower (39–63%).

Conclusion

DMARD use in studies from RA cohorts or registries (in which patients were followed by rheumatologists) ranged from 73–100%, compared with 30–73% in studies from administrative data or population‐based surveys (in which patients were not necessarily receiving rheumatology subspecialty care).
Lyme Arthritis: A Comparison of Presentation, Synovial Fluid Analysis, and Treatment Course in Children and Adults
Authors: Daikh Brian E. , Emerson Fred E. , Smith Robert P. , Lucas F. Lee , McCarthy Carol A.
Published: August 2013

Objective

This case series examines differences in the presentation, management, and outcome of Lyme arthritis between the pediatric and adult population.

Methods

We reviewed charts of pediatric and adult patients evaluated for Lyme arthritis by rheumatologists and pediatric infectious disease specialists in Portland, Maine between January 2002 and July 2008. Patients included for analysis had documented joint swelling and positive Lyme serology. Data on clinical presentation, synovial fluid and peripheral blood results, treatment, and clinical course were analyzed.

Results

Twenty‐nine adults and 52 children met case criteria for Lyme arthritis. Children were more likely than adults to present acutely (P < 0.0001) and also had higher mean peripheral blood (P = 0.05) and synovial fluid white blood cell counts (P < 0.0001). Lyme arthritis was more frequently suspected in children at presentation (P = 0.04). There was no difference between children and adults with respect to suspicion for septic arthritis, hospitalization, or surgical intervention. Adults received more antibiotic courses (P = 0.007) and were more likely to have intravenous antibiotics in subsequent treatment courses (P = 0.006). Children were more likely to have normal function within 4 weeks of initiating antibiotic treatment (P < 0.0001).

Conclusion

Children with Lyme arthritis were more likely to present acutely with higher synovial white cell counts than adults. We did not, however, observe a significant difference in hospitalization or surgical management. Children had more prompt resolution of their joint swelling and received less treatment overall.
Effect of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome on Grip and Pinch Strength Compared With Sex‐ and Age‐Matched Normative Data
Authors: Baker Nancy A. , Moehling Krissy K. , Desai Abhishek R. , Gustafson Norman P.
Published: August 2013

Objective

To compare grip and pinch strength of individuals with carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) to normative values before and after a combined splint/stretching intervention.

Methods

Data collected on grip and pinch strength on 124 subjects with CTS were compared to age‐ and sex‐matched normative data.

Results

In general, our sample had significantly lower strength than the normative sample at baseline. Although there were significant improvements in strength after 4 weeks of splinting/exercise, subjects continued to have significant deficits in comparison to the normative data.

Conclusion

Patients with CTS have moderate to large deficits in grip and pinch strength in comparison to normative data. Splinting/stretching may reduce these deficits; however, CTS patients are often left with residual problems at 4 weeks.
Better Functional and Similar Pain Outcomes in Osteoarthritis Compared to Rheumatoid Arthritis After Primary Total Knee Arthroplasty: A Cohort Study
Authors: Singh Jasvinder A. , Lewallen David G.
Published: August 2013

Objective

To determine the association of the underlying diagnosis with limitation in activities of daily living (ADL) and pain in patients undergoing primary total knee arthroplasty (TKA).

Methods

Prospectively collected data from the Mayo Clinic Total Joint Registry were used to assess the association of diagnosis with moderate–severe limitation in ADL and moderate–severe pain at 2 and 5 years after primary TKA, using multivariable‐adjusted logistic regression analyses. We calculated odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs).

Results

There were 7,139 primary TKAs at 2 years and 4,234 at 5 years. In multivariable‐adjusted analyses, compared with rheumatoid arthritis (RA)/inflammatory arthritis, osteoarthritis (OA) was associated with significantly lower moderate–severe ADL limitation at 2 years (OR 0.5 [95% CI 0.3–0.8]) (P = 0.004) and at 5 years (OR 0.5 [95% CI 0.3–0.9]) (P = 0.02). There was no significant association of diagnosis of OA with moderate–severe pain at 2 years (OR 1.2 [95% CI 0.5–2.7]) (P = 0.68) or at 5 years (OR 1.0 [95% CI 0.3–3.7]) (P = 1.0).

Conclusion

We found that patients with OA who underwent primary TKA had better ADL outcomes compared to patients with RA/inflammatory arthritis at 2 and 5 years. On the other hand, the pain outcomes after primary TKA did not differ in OA versus RA. This suggests a discordant effect of underlying diagnosis on pain and function outcomes after TKA. These novel findings can be used to better inform both patients and surgeons about expected pain and function outcomes after primary TKA.
Association of Metabolic Risk Factors With Cartilage Degradation Assessed by T2 Relaxation Time at the Knee: Data From the Osteoarthritis Initiative
Authors: Jungmann P. M. , Kraus M. S. , Alizai H. , Nardo L. , Baum T. , Nevitt M. C. , McCulloch C. E. , Joseph G. B. , Lynch J. A. , Link T. M.
Published: August 2013

Objective

To evaluate the association of metabolic risk factors with severity and 2‐year progression of early degenerative cartilage changes at the knee, measured with T2 relaxation times in middle‐aged subjects from the Osteoarthritis Initiative.

Methods

Cartilage segmentation and T2 map generation were performed in knee 3T magnetic resonance images from 403 subjects ages 45–60 years without radiographic osteoarthritis (OA). The influence of risk factors on baseline T2 and longitudinal progression of T2 was analyzed using linear regression, adjusting for age, sex, and other OA risk factors.

Results

Four metabolic risk factors, i.e., high abdominal circumference (P < 0.001), hypertension (P = 0.041), high fat consumption (P = 0.023), and self‐reported diabetes mellitus (P = 0.010), were individually associated with higher baseline T2. When the 4 metabolic risk factors were considered in a multivariate regression model, higher T2 remained significantly associated with abdominal circumference (P < 0.001) and diabetes mellitus (P = 0.026), and there was a trend for high fat consumption (P = 0.096). For the individual risk factors, only diabetes mellitus remained associated with higher baseline T2 after adjustment for body mass index (BMI). After adjustment for BMI, baseline T2 increased in a dose‐response manner with the number of metabolic risk factors present (P = 0.032 for linear trend), and subjects with ≥3 metabolic factors (versus <3) had significantly higher baseline T2 (mean difference 1.2 msec [95% confidence interval 0.3, 2.1]; P = 0.011). Metabolic risk factors were not significantly associated with increases in T2 during followup.

Conclusion

Metabolic risk factors are associated with higher T2, suggesting that increased cartilage degeneration may be caused by modifiable metabolic disorders.
Evaluation of Ankle Swelling Due to Lofgren's Syndrome: A Pilot Study Using B‐Mode and Power Doppler Ultrasonography
Authors: Le Bras E. , Ehrenstein B. , Fleck M. , Hartung W.
Published: August 2013

Objective

Patients with acute sarcoidosis frequently present with bilateral painful swelling of the ankles, establishing ankle arthritis as a hallmark of Lofgren's syndrome. Standardized high‐resolution musculoskeletal ultrasound (MSUS), including power Doppler, has been utilized to further characterize the nature of ankle swelling in patients presenting with Lofgren's syndrome.

Methods

The ankle joints of 36 consecutive patients with Lofgren's syndrome were investigated by high‐resolution MSUS using B‐mode and power Doppler mode. The presence of effusion/synovitis and tenosynovitis was determined, and hyperperfusion was scored in a semiquantitative fashion (grade 0–3).

Results

The majority of patients (26 [72.2%] of 36) did not present characteristic arthrosonographic findings of an acute arthritis (distension of the capsule and hyperperfusion). Ankle joint effusion was only observed in 9 (25%) of the 36 patients, with a generally mild character (grade I ankle joint effusion: n = 8 [88.8%], grade II ankle joint effusion: n = 1 [11.2%]). In contrast, an extensive subcutaneous edema indicating periarthritis was detected in 23 (92%) of 25 patients. In addition, tenosynovitis could be visualized in 14 patients (38.8%) using MSUS.

Conclusion

Utilizing MSUS, including power Doppler, the present results clearly demonstrate that ankle swelling in patients with Lofgren's syndrome is predominantly due to periarticular soft tissue swelling and tenosynovitis. In contrast, distinct articular synovitis is rare and if present, only to a mild degree, without relevant power Doppler activity.
Feasibility, Reliability, and Sensitivity to Change of Four Radiographic Scoring Methods in Patients With Psoriatic Arthritis
Authors: Tillett W. , Jadon D. , Shaddick G. , Robinson G. , Sengupta R. , Korendowych E. , de Vries C. S. , McHugh N. J.
Published: August 2013

Objective

We set out to assess the feasibility, reliability, and sensitivity to change of 4 radiographic scoring methods in psoriatic arthritis (PsA).

Methods

Hand and feet radiographs from 50 patients with PsA were scored at 2 time points by 2 assessors with each of the following methods: modified Steinbrocker score, modified Sharp score (MSS), modified Sharp/van der Heijde score (SHS), and the Ratingen score for PsA. The radiographs of 10 patients were scored by both assessors to assess reliability using intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs). Sensitivity to change was estimated using a standardized response mean (SRM) and smallest detectable change (SDC).

Results

The patients' mean ± SD age at baseline was 50 ± 12.1 years, the mean ± SD disease duration was 10 ± 8.4 years, and the mean ± SD followup period was 25 ± 9.6 months. Intrarater reliability was excellent for all methods (ICC >0.97). Interrater reliability was highest for the SHS (ICC 0.95–0.99). The percentage SDC for the Steinbrocker method, the Ratingen method, the MSS, and the SHS was 2.9%, 2.1%, 1.4%, and 1.2%, respectively, and the SRMs were 0.46, 0.44, 0.77, and 0.79, respectively. The mean time to score each of the Steinbrocker method, the Ratingen method, the MSS, and the SHS was 6.2, 10.5, 14.6, and 14.4 minutes, respectively.

Conclusion

The SHS method was the most reliable and sensitive to change but took longer to perform. The Steinbrocker method is the most feasible but lacks the sensitivity of the SHS. The SDC of the Ratingen method is close to that of the SHS and MSS, but is quicker to perform.
Musculoskeletal Ultrasound Objective Structured Clinical Examination: An Assessment of the Test
Authors: Kissin Eugene Y. , Grayson Peter C. , Cannella Amy C. , DeMarco Paul J. , Evangelisto Amy , Goyal Janak , al Haj Rany , Higgs Jay , Malone Daniel G. , Nishio Midori J. , Tabechian Darren , Kaeley Gurjit S.
Published: August 2013

Objective

To determine the reliability and validity of an objective structured clinical examination (OSCE) for musculoskeletal ultrasound (MSUS).

Methods

A 9‐station OSCE was administered to 35 rheumatology fellows trained in MSUS and to 3 expert faculty (controls). Participants were unaware of joint health (5 diseased/4 healthy). Faculty assessors (n = 9) graded image quality with predefined checklists and a 0–5 global rating, blinded to who performed the study. Interrater reliability, correlation between a written multiple choice question examination (MCQ) and OSCE performance, and comparison of fellow OSCE results with those of the faculty were measured to determine OSCE reliability, concurrent validity, and construct validity.

Results

Assessors' interrater reliability was good (intraclass correlation coefficient [ICC] 0.7). Score reliability was good in the normal wrist and ankle stations (ICC 0.7) and moderate in the abnormal wrist and ankle stations (ICC 0.4). MCQ grades significantly correlated with OSCE grades (r = 0.52, P < 0.01). The fellows in the bottom quartile of the MCQ scored 3.07 on the OSCE, significantly worse than the top quartile fellows (3.32) and the faculty (3.29; P < 0.01). Scores also significantly discriminated bottom quartile fellows from faculty in the normal wrist and ankle stations (3.38 versus 3.78; P < 0.01), but not in the abnormal stations (3.37 versus 3.49; P = 0.08).

Conclusion

MSUS OSCE is a reliable and valid method for evaluation of MSUS skill. Normal joint assessment stations are more reliable than abnormal joint assessment stations and better discriminate poorly performing fellows from faculty. Therefore, MSUS OSCE with normal joints can be used for the assessment of MSUS skill competency.
Molecular Engineering of “Click”‐Phospholes Towards Self‐Assembled Luminescent Soft Materials
Authors: He Xiaoming , Lin Jian‐Bin , Kan Wang Hay , Dong Pengcheng , Trudel Simon , Baumgartner Thomas
Published: August 2013

Inspired by the self‐assembled bilayer structures of natural amphiphilic phospholipids, a new class of highly luminescent “click”‐phospholes with exocyclic alkynyl group at the phosphorus center is reported. These molecules can be easily functionalized with a self‐assembly group to generate neutral “phosphole‐lipids”. This novel approach retains the versatile reactivity of the phosphorus center, allowing further engineering of the photophysical and self‐assembly properties of the materials at a molecular level. The results of this study highlight the importance of being able to balance weak intermolecular interactions for controlling the self‐assembly properties of soft materials. Only molecules with the appropriate set of intermolecular arrangement/interactions show both organogel and liquid crystal mesophases with well‐ordered microstructures. Moreover, an efficient energy transfer of the luminescent materials is demonstrated and applied in the detection of organic solvent vapors.
The metabolic syndrome and neuropathy: Therapeutic challenges and opportunities
Authors: Callaghan Brian , Feldman Eva
Published: August 2013

The metabolic syndrome and neuropathy are common conditions, especially in the elderly, that are associated with significant morbidity. Furthermore, the metabolic syndrome is reaching epidemic proportions across the world. Current evidence supports the association of the metabolic syndrome and its individual components with neuropathy. Several clinical trials have demonstrated that treating hyperglycemia, a component of the metabolic syndrome, has a significant effect on reducing the incidence of neuropathy in those with type 1 diabetes. However, glucose control has only a marginal effect on preventing neuropathy in those with type 2 diabetes, suggesting that other factors may be driving nerve injury in these patients. Emerging evidence supports the metabolic syndrome as including risk factors for neuropathy. Interventions exist for treatment of all of the metabolic syndrome components, but only glucose control has strong evidence to support its use and is widely employed. Our understanding of the biology of metabolic nerve injury has rapidly expanded over the past several years. Mechanisms of injury include fatty deposition in nerves, extracellular protein glycation, mitochondrial dysfunction, and oxidative stress. Additionally, the activation of counter‐regulatory signaling pathways leads to chronic metabolic inflammation. Medications that target these signaling pathways are being used for a variety of diseases and are intriguing therapeutic agents for future neuropathy clinical trials. As we move forward, we need to expand our understanding of the association between the metabolic syndrome and neuropathy by addressing limitations of previous studies. Just as importantly, we must continue to investigate the pathophysiology of metabolically induced nerve injury. Ann Neurol 2013;74:397–403
Preparation and characterization of thermo‐sensitive poly(vinyl alcohol)‐based hydrogel as drug carrier
Authors: An Qiaozhi , Beh Catherine , Xiao Huining
Published: August 2013

Poly(vinyl alcohol)s (PVA) with high and low molecular weights were chemically modified by introducing acetaldehyde onto the polymer backbone to induce thermal‐responsive properties. The influence of both molecular weight (
) and acetalization degree on the lower critical solution temperature (LCST) of thermo‐sensitive polymer was investigated. Moreover, a temperature responsive hydrogel was prepared by controlled cross‐linking of acetalized poly(vinyl alcohol) (APVA) and glutaraldehyde. As a model drug, ciprofloxacin was introduced into the prepared thermal sensitive hydrogel to reveal the drug loading and release behaviors. The structure, thermo‐sensitivity, swelling/deswelling kinetics, morphology, and drug loading/release behaviors were also investigated. The results indicated that the APVA polymer solution exhibited temperature responsivity, and APVA with high acetalization degree showed low LCST, whereas those with high
PVAs showed high LCST. Meanwhile, morphology study was identical with the swelling/de‐swelling behavior. The loading and release of ciprofloxacin were controllable. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2014, 131, 39720.
Electrical properties and the role of inhomogeneities at the polyvinyl alcohol/n‐inp schottky barrier interface
Authors: Reddy M. Siva Pratap , Kang Hee‐Sung , Lee Jung‐Hee , Reddy V. Rajagopal , Jang Ja‐Soon
Published: August 2013

In this work, we have investigated the electrical properties of Au/n‐InP contacts with a thin layer of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) as an interlayer. The current–voltage (I–V) and capacitance–voltage (C–V) measurements are carried out in the temperature range of 175–425 K. The Au/PVA/n‐InP Schottky structure show nonideal behaviors and indicates the presence of a nonuniform distribution of interface states. The temperature dependent interface states densities (NSS), ideality factor
and barrier height
are obtained. An abnormal decrease in zero‐bias barrier height (BH) and increase in the ideality factor (
) with decreasing temperature have been explained on the basis of the thermionic emission theory with Gaussian distribution (GD) of the BHs due to the BH inhomogeneities. The experimental I–V characteristics of Au/PVA/n‐InP Schottky diode has revealed the existence of a double GD with mean BH values of (
) of 1.246 and 0.899 eV and standard deviation (
) of 0.176 and 0.137 V, respectively. Consequently, the modified conventional activation energy
versus
plot gives
and Richardson constants (
) and the values are 1.17 and 0.71 eV and 9.9 and 6.9 A/cm2 K2, respectively, without using the temperature coefficient of the BH. The effective Richardson constant value of 9.9 A/cm2 K2 is very close to the theoretical value of 9.4 A/cm2 K2 for n‐InP. The discrepancy between Schottky barrier heights estimated from I–V and C–V measurements is also discussed. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2014, 131, 39773.
Fabrication of carbon nanotubes/polypyrrole/carbon nanotubes/melamine foam for supercapacitor
Authors: Liu Feifei , Han Gaoyi , Chang Yunzhen , Fu Dongying , Li Yanping , Li Miaoyu
Published: August 2013

The carbon nanotubes (CNTs) have been loaded on the melamine foam (MF) to form the composite (CNTs/MF) by dip‐dry process, then polypyrrole (PPy) is coated on CNTs/MF (PPy/CNTs/MF) through chemical oxidation polymerization by using FeCl3·6H2O adsorbed on CNTs/MF as oxidant to polymerize the pyrrole vapor. Finally, CNTs are coated on the surface of PPy/CNTs/MF to increase the conductivity of the composite (CNTs/PPy/CNTs/MF) by dip‐dry process again. The composites have been characterized by X‐ray diffraction spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy and electrochemical method. The results show that the structure of the composites has obvious influence on their capacitive properties. According to the galvanostatic charge/discharge test, the specific capacitance of CNTs/PPy/CNTs/MF is about 184 F g−1 based on the total mass of the composite and 262 F g−1 based on the mass of PPy (70.2 wt % in the composite) at the current density of 0.4 A g−1, which is higher than that of PPy/CNTs/MF (120 F g−1 based on the total mass of the composite and 167 F g−1 based on the mass of the PPy). Furthermore, the capacitor assembled by CNTs/PPy/CNTs/MF shows excellent cyclic stability. The capacitance of the cell assembled by CNTs/PPy/CNTs/MF retains 96.3% over 450 scan cycles at scan rate of 20 mV s−1, which is larger than that assembled by CNTs/PPy/MF (72.5%). © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2014, 131, 39779.
Bio‐sorbents from cassava waste biomass and its performance in removal of Pb2+ from aqueous solution
Authors: Shi Jinheng , Luo Hongsheng , Xiao Dingshu , Hu Jiwen , Zhang Ganwei , Li Yinhui , Lin Baofeng , Liang Xingquan , Tu Yuanyuan
Published: August 2013

Cassava xanthogenate and their derivatives, as adsorbents to remove Pb2+ from aqueous solution, are studied based upon orthogonal factorial design. The structural and thermal properties, adsorption performance as well as equilibrium‐kinetics are comprehensively investigated with multiple tools, such as Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA), and UV–visible spectrum technique. The influence of multiple parameters, including initial Pb2+ concentrations, compositions, pH values, and temperatures, on the adsorption performance is emphasized. The crosslinked cassava xanthogenate serves as an effective bio‐sorbent to remove Pb ions from aqueous solution, allowing regeneration in dilute acid solution. The findings in this study are beneficial for the development of adsorbents from cassava waste biomass and may contribute to environment recovery in “nature‐to‐nature” manner. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2014, 131, 39780.
The Percentage of FoxP3+Helios+ Treg Cells Correlates Positively With Disease Activity in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
Authors: Golding Amit , Hasni Sarfaraz , Illei Gabor , Shevach Ethan M.
Published: August 2013

Objective

To assess the use of Helios in combination with FoxP3 as a superior method for identifying non–cytokine‐producing human Treg cells in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and to determine if FoxP3+Helios+ Treg cells are maintained at normal levels in patients with clinically active disease.

Methods

Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) were purified from the blood of healthy volunteer donors and from 52 consecutive patients with SLE of varying clinical activity (Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Disease Activity Index scores of 0, 2–4, and ≥5). PBMCs (either fresh or after 4 hours of stimulation for cytokine production) were then analyzed by flow cytometry for the expression of cell surface markers (CD4, CD25, CD127, and CD45RA) and transcription factors (FoxP3 and Helios), as well as for the production of cytokines (interleukin‐2 and interferon‐γ).

Results

FoxP3+Helios+ Treg cells were found to be non–cytokine producing in both SLE patients and healthy controls. Patients with clinically active SLE had higher percentages of FoxP3+Helios+ Treg cells than did patients with inactive SLE or healthy controls. When corrected for the total CD4 cell count, the absolute numbers of FoxP3+Helios+ Treg cells in patients with moderately‐to‐highly active SLE were normal.

Conclusion

Previous reports of a deficiency in Treg cell number or function in SLE are limited by their use of CD25, either alone or in combination with other markers, to identify human Treg cells. Helios in combination with FoxP3 is a superior method for detecting all non–cytokine‐producing Treg cells, irrespective of CD25 or CD45RA expression. Using this method, we showed that FoxP3+Helios+ Treg cell numbers are not reduced in patients with clinically active SLE.
Electrochemical Characteristics of Discrete, Uniform, and Monodispersed Hollow Mesoporous Carbon Spheres in Double‐Layered Supercapacitors
Authors: Chen Xuecheng , Kierzek Krzysztof , Wenelska Karolina , Cendrowski Krzystof , Gong Jiang , Wen Xin , Tang Tao , Chu Paul K. , Mijowska Ewa
Published: August 2013

Core–shell‐structured mesoporous silica spheres were prepared by using n‐octadecyltrimethoxysilane (C18TMS) as the surfactant. Hollow mesoporous carbon spheres with controllable diameters were fabricated from core–shell‐structured mesoporous silica sphere templates by chemical vapor deposition (CVD). By controlling the thickness of the silica shell, hollow carbon spheres (HCSs) with different diameters can be obtained. The use of ethylene as the carbon precursor in the CVD process produces the materials in a single step without the need to remove the surfactant. The mechanism of formation and the role played by the surfactant, C18TMS, are investigated. The materials have large potential in double‐layer supercapacitors, and their electrochemical properties were determined. HCSs with thicker mesoporous shells possess a larger surface area, which in turn increases their electrochemical capacitance. The samples prepared at a lower temperature also exhibit increased capacitance as a result of the Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) area and larger pore size.
Clinical pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, safety and tolerability of darexaban, an oral direct factor Xa inhibitor, in healthy Caucasian and Japanese subjects
Authors: Kadokura Takeshi , Kashiwa Makoto , Groenendaal Dorien , Heeringa Marten , Mol Roelof , Verheggen Frank , Garcia‐Hernandez Alberto , Onkels Hartmut
Published: August 2013

Background. Darexaban (YM150) is a potent direct factor Xa (FXa) inhibitor developed for the prophylaxis of venous and arterial thromboembolic disease. This drug is rapidly and extensively metabolized to darexaban glucuronide (YM‐222714), which is a pharmacologically active metabolite. The objective of the present study was to evaluate the clinical pharmacokinetics (PK), pharmacodynamics (PD), safety and tolerability of ascending multiple oral doses of darexaban in healthy non‐elderly Caucasian and Japanese subjects. Methods. A randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, single and multiple dose‐escalating study of healthy Caucasian and Japanese male and female subjects was performed. The tested doses were 20, 60, 120 and 240 mg of darexaban. Results. Plasma concentrations of darexaban glucuronide increased with dose, and Cmax and AUC increased dose‐dependently after both single and repeated doses in both Caucasians and Japanese. Cmax was about 17%–19% lower in Caucasians than in Japanese, although AUC appeared to be similar. The time‐profiles of prothrombin time reported as the international normalized ratio (PT‐INR), activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT) and FXa activity closely followed the time–concentration profile of darexaban glucuronide, and no clear differences were observed in ethnicity. Overall, 38 of the 82 enrolled subjects reported a total of 57 treatment‐emergent adverse events (TEAEs). Fifty‐five TEAEs were of mild intensity and two were of moderate intensity. Conclusion. It is concluded that single and multiple doses of darexaban are safe and well tolerated up to 240 mg with predictable PK and PD profiles in both Caucasians and Japanese, and that ethnicity does not affect its PK, PD or tolerability. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Extension and application of the “enzyme test bench” for oxygen consuming enzyme reactions
Authors: Rachinskiy Kirill , Kunze Martin , Graf Careen , Schultze Hergen , Boy Matthias , Büchs Jochen
Published: August 2013

Within industrial process development, powerful screening techniques are required to select the optimal biocatalyst regarding such process characteristics as cost effectiveness, turnover number or space time yield. Conventional measurement of the initial enzyme activity, which is the established high throughput screening technique, disregards the long‐term stability of an enzyme. A new model based technique called “enzyme test bench” was recently presented before by our group which addresses this issue. It combines the high throughput screening approach with an extensive enzyme characterization, focusing especially on the long‐term stability. The technique is based on modeling enzyme activation and deactivation as temperature dependent reactions in accordance with the Arrhenius law. Controlling these reactions by tailor made temperature profiles, the slow long‐term deactivation effects are accelerated and characterizing models are parameterized. Thus, the process properties of an enzyme can be predicted and included into the screening procedure. Moreover, the optimum process temperature as function of the envisaged operation time can be found by these means. In this work, the technique is extended to the important class of oxygen consuming reactions. For this aim, a suitable assay and a defined oxygen supply were established. This extended technique was applied to characterize and to optimize a complex, multi‐stage laccase‐mediator system (LMS). For the variation and optimization of the enzyme to mediator to substrate ratio, experiments in microtiter plates were performed. Predictions from this high throughput characterization were compared to long‐term experiments in a RAMOS device (Respiration Activity Monitoring System), a technique for on‐line monitoring of the oxygen transfer rate in shake flasks. Within the limits of the model validity, the enzyme test bench predictions are in good agreement with the long‐term experiments. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2014;111: 244–253. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Phosphite‐driven Self‐sufficient Cytochrome P450
Authors: Watanabe Hiroshi , Hirakawa Hidehiko , Nagamune Teruyuki
Published: August 2013

Cytochrome P450s (P450s) are attractive for biotechnology applications because P450s can catalyze regio‐ and stereo‐selective oxidations of non‐activated hydrocarbons. Many bacterial P450s require electron transfer from ferredoxins, which are in turn reduced by specific ferredoxin reductases and NAD(P)H. Stoichiometric consumption of NADH, an expensive reagent, is a major challenge for practical applications. A phosphite dehydrogenase (PTDH) that catalyzes the oxidation of phosphite to phosphate using NAD+, is an attractive choice of enzyme for NADH regeneration. In this study, we incorporated PTDH into an artificial heterotrimeric complex of Pseudomonas putida P450, putidaredoxin and putidaredoxin reductase, and the resulting complex almost completely hydroxylated 1 mm d‐camphor using 10 mM phosphite in the presence of 20 μM NAD+. This phosphite‐driven self‐sufficient P450 complex could provide a useful prototype for industry‐scale oxidizing biocatalysts.
Fabrication and Evaluation of Non‐porous Graphene by a Unique Spray Pyrolysis Method
Authors: Jabari‐Seresht R. , Jahanshahi M. , Rashidi A. , Ghoreyshi A. A.
Published: August 2013

Graphenes were synthesized simply by spray pyrolysis at different temperatures and subsequently characterized. The graphene oxide‐based precursor served as source of carbon, while nitrogen was selected as carrier gas. Fabrication at a temperature of 800 °C led to the product with highest quality. This graphene had a high specific surface area and presented a nanoporous structure. Characteristics of the obtained graphenes such as crystallinity and crystal size varied under different temperatures. These findings were confirmed by X‐ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and Brunauer‐Emmett‐Teller (BET) studies.
Research on Mass Transfer Columns: passé?
Authors: Schultes M.
Published: August 2013

Since university research on mass transfer columns has decreased significantly in recent years, it is discussed whether the current knowledge of mass transfer technology for trays, packing materials, and column internals is sufficient to design energy‐ and cost‐efficient systems. Points of view are described that have not yet been clarified from an industrial position and should play an important role in future research. In addition to the thermodynamics of industrially relevant systems, an improved description of the fluid dynamics and mass transfer efficiency in trayed and packed columns is included. Research should focus beyond ideal test mixtures which employ standardized test equipments and test systems. Industrial parameters such as foams and solids as well as chemical and catalytic mass transfer are also of great interest.
A Designed 5‐Fluorouracil‐Based Bridged Silsesquioxane as an Autonomous Acid‐Triggered Drug‐Delivery System
Authors: Giret Simon , Théron Christophe , Gallud Audrey , Maynadier Marie , Gary‐Bobo Magali , Garcia Marcel , Wong Chi Man Michel , Carcel Carole
Published: August 2013

Two new prodrugs, bearing two and three 5‐fluorouracil (5‐FU) units, respectively, have been synthesized and were shown to efficiently treat human breast cancer cells. In addition to 5‐FU, they were intended to form complexes through H‐bonds to an organo‐bridged silane prior to hydrolysis‐condensation through sol–gel processes to construct acid‐responsive bridged silsesquioxanes (BS). Whereas 5‐FU itself and the prodrug bearing two 5‐FU units completely leached out from the corresponding materials, the prodrug bearing three 5‐FU units was successfully maintained in the resulting BS. Solid‐state NMR (29Si and 13C) spectroscopy show that the organic fragments of the organo‐bridged silane are retained in the hybrid through covalent bonding and the 1H NMR spectroscopic analysis provides evidence for the hydrogen‐bonding interactions between the prodrug bearing three 5‐FU units and the triazine‐based hybrid matrix. The complex in the BS is not affected under neutral medium and operates under acidic conditions even under pH as high as 5 to deliver the drug as demonstrated by HPLC analysis and confirmed by FTIR and 13C NMR spectroscopic studies. Such functional BS are promising materials as carriers to avoid the side effects of the anticancer drug 5‐FU thanks to a controlled and targeted drug delivery.
ChemInform Abstract: Synthesis and Crystal Structures of the Alkali Aluminum Thiohypodiphosphates MIAIP2S6 (M: Li, Na).
Authors: Kuhn Alexander , Eger Roland , Nuss Juergen , Lotsch Bettina V.
Published: August 2013

LiAlP2S6 (I) and NaAlP2S6 (II) are prepared by solid state reaction of stoichiometric amounts of Na or Li2S, Al, P, and S (evacuated quartz ampules, 10023 K, 1 d).
ChemInform Abstract: Dihydronium Tetrachromate (Vl), (H3O)2Cr4O13.
Authors: Kulikov Vladislav , Meyer Gerd
Published: August 2013

Single crystals of (H3O)2Cr4O13 are obtained from an aqueous mother liquor containing Na2Cr2O7, CrO3, AgClO4, and theobromine in HNO3 after 6 months.
ChemInform Abstract: Solution‐Phase Synthesis of Highly Conductive Tungsten Diselenide Nanosheets.
Authors: Antunez Priscilla D. , Webber David H. , Brutchey Richard L.
Published: August 2013

WSe2 nanosheets are prepared by injecting tBu2Se2 into a solution of WCl4 in dodecylamine at 150 °C (N2 atmosphere, heating to 225 °C, 6 h, quenching).
ChemInform Abstract: Room Temperature Magnetic Rare‐Earth Iron Garnet Thin Films with Ordered Mesoporous Structure.
Authors: Suchomski Christian , Reitz Christian , Sousa Celia T. , Araujo Joao P. , Brezesinski Torsten
Published: August 2013

Highly crystalline thin films of lanthanoid Fe garnet (Ln3Fe5O12, Ln: Y, Gd, Tb, Dy) with cubic networks of interconnected pores (average 17 nm in diameter) are prepared through facile polymer (poly‐ω‐hydroxypoly(ethylene‐co‐butylene)‐co‐poly(ethylene oxide)) templating of hydrated nitrate salts in methoxyethanol and EtOH.