bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mapeamento da declividade de uma sub-bacia hidrográfica mediante comparação de bases cartográficas
Authors: Prina Bruno Zucuni , Trentin Romario , Alvarez Jimmy Walter Rasche , Pellegrini André
Published: September 2016

O objetivo geral dessa pesquisa é o de elaborar mapas de declividade para uma sub-bacia hidrográfica localizada no interior do município de Júlio de Castilhos/RS/Brasil, e comparar os resultados entre dados primários (levantamento de dados a campo) e fontes secundárias (ASTER e SRTM). Com isso, geraram-se mapas de declividade para as bases cartográficas e os mesmos foram comparados. Na análise dos dados verificou-se uma expressiva disparidade entre os dados secundários e os levantados a campo. A partir disso, alerta-se quanto a preocupação de realizar o mapeamento da declividade com dados secundários, pois o fator "resolução espacial" está diretamente ligado aos resultados da clinografia.
Avaliação da sustentabilidade da expansão do perímetro urbano da cidade de Piracicaba - SP por meio de indicadores de forma urbana
Authors: Braga Roberto
Published: September 2016

Este artigo tem como objetivo a discussão e o desenvolvimento de indicadores para avaliação da sustentabilidade de processos de expansão urbana com base no conceito de forma urbana sustentável. O conceito de forma urbana sustentável reconhece que cidades mais compactas, socioespacialmente diversas e com usos do solo integrados são mais sustentáveis tanto ambiental quanto socialmente. O estudo de caso é a cidade de Piracicaba-SP e são avaliados os perímetros urbanos delimitados nos anos de 2000 e 2013. Foram desenvolvidos e aplicados seis indicadores. Os resultados indicaram que a delimitação do perímetro urbano não atendeu aos padrões de sustentabilidade, bem como houve uma piora dos indicadores no período analisado
Lugares e lugaridades: jovens falam de desejos, atitudes e sentidos em seus mundos
Authors: Araújo Danieli Barbosa De , Moura Jeani Delgado Paschoal
Published: September 2016

ResumoO objetivo desta pesquisa é compreender a percepção e elaboração de sentidos sobre o lugar pelos jovens moradores de São Sebastião da Amoreira, município localizado no Norte do Paraná, cuja cidade é considerada de pequeno porte. Substanciada pela fenomenologia geográfica procura-se ampliar o debate sobre o papel da educação geográfica humanista para a valorização e o reconhecimento das diversidades e singularidades dos lugares. A técnica de pesquisa envolveu registros fotográficos e conversas informais com grupos de jovens. Ao confrontar elementos percebidos na realidade vivida pelos jovens com os conteúdos escolares sobre os lugares e lugaridades, constatamos o distanciamento e a necessidade de aproximação entre os mesmos.Palavras-chave: Percepção; Lugar; Juventude; Cidade Pequena; Educação Humanista.
As correntes ambientalistas por trás da lei nº 12.651/2012 do novo Código Florestal
Authors: Assmann Suelem Martini , Melo Fabiano Rodrigues de
Published: September 2016

Na busca pelo entendimento das motivações para as mudanças na lei do Novo Código Florestal (NCF), enxergou-se a importância de investigar as correntes ambientalistas e suas correlações com as alterações da lei. Das três principais correntes ambientalistas investigadas, entende-se que o NCF possui forte tendência à corrente ideológica do sustentabilismo, que possui perspectivas utilitaristas da natureza, vista como recursos econômicos. Viu-se que as alterações demonstram tendências meramente utilitárias, tomadas através do jogo político, onde vários grupos envolvidos no processo constroem significados e utilizam dos seus próprios conceitos para criarem leis que beneficiam seus interesses.
Introduction à l’Afrique des ports et des corridors : comment formuler l’interaction entre logistique et développement
Authors: Steck Benjamin
Published: September 2016

La logistique est désormais une clef du développement. Dans la mondialisation en cours, le continent africain s’impose de plus en plus comme un acteur important, malgré ses faiblesses. Les grands opérateurs logistiques mondialisés sont confiants pour son avenir. Ils investissent dans les terminaux portuaires et sont des acteurs de l’amélioration des accessibilités intérieures. Cet article vise à souligner combien il est important de poser la question des effets sociaux et politiques de cette évolution, qui place en concurrence ports, corridors et États. La seule vraie question est celle de la capacité de la logistique à contribuer au développement des populations africaines.
Dynamique spatiale d’un espace à caractère steppique : le cas des Hautes Plaines sud-oranaises (Algérie)
Authors: Hadeid Mohamed , Bendjelid Abed , Fontaine Jacques , Ormaux Serge
Published: September 2016

Les Hautes Plaines steppiques sud-oranaises représentent un milieu biogéographique ouvert et fragile. Pendant des siècles, le nomadisme pastoral en a été l’unique forme d’exploitation. La colonisation provoque une première rupture en réduisant les mouvements des tribus, brisant ainsi la complémentarité spatiale existante entre la Steppe et le Tell. Après l’indépendance, l’État algérien reprend certaines dispositions du pouvoir colonial, mais avec une volonté de développement et d’intégration de la Steppe à l’espace national. La population, encore majoritairement nomade dans les années 1960, se sédentarise rapidement devant les « bienfaits de la modernité ». Durant les années 1980, l’État se lance dans une politique de mise en valeur agricole conduisant la Steppe à la perte de sa vocation strictement pastorale. Cette nouvelle forme de mise en valeur, ainsi que la forte augmentation de la population ont entraîné une profonde restructuration spatiale.
An alternative splicing program promotes adipose tissue thermogenesis
Authors: Vernia Santiago , Edwards Yvonne JK , Han Myoung Sook , Cavanagh-Kyros Julie , Barrett Tamera , Kim Jason K , Davis Roger J
Published: September 2016

Alternative pre-mRNA splicing expands the complexity of the transcriptome and controls isoform-specific gene expression. Whether alternative splicing contributes to metabolic regulation is largely unknown. Here we investigated the contribution of alternative splicing to the development of diet-induced obesity. We found that obesity-induced changes in adipocyte gene expression include alternative pre-mRNA splicing. Bioinformatics analysis associated part of this alternative splicing program with sequence specific NOVA splicing factors. This conclusion was confirmed by studies of mice with NOVA deficiency in adipocytes. Phenotypic analysis of the NOVA-deficient mice demonstrated increased adipose tissue thermogenesis and improved glycemia. We show that NOVA proteins mediate a splicing program that suppresses adipose tissue thermogenesis. Together, these data provide quantitative analysis of gene expression at exon-level resolution in obesity and identify a novel mechanism that contributes to the regulation of adipose tissue function and the maintenance of normal glycemia.
Tunable ultra-wide band-stop filter based on single-stub plasmonic-waveguide system
Authors: Chen Zhiquan , Li Hongjian , Li Boxun , He Zhihui , Xu Hui , Zheng Mingfei , Zhao Mingzhuo
Published: September 2016

A nanoscale plasmonic filter based on a single-stub coupled metal–dielectric–metal waveguide system is investigated theoretically and numerically. A tunable wide band-stop can be achieved by loading a metal bar into the stub. The band-stop originates from the direct coupling between the resonance modes. The bandwidth and the center wavelength of the band-stop can be tuned by changing the parameters of the metal bar. Compared with previously reported filters, the plasmonic system has the advantages of easy fabrication and compactness. Our results indicate that the proposed system has potential to be utilized in integrated optical circuits and tunable filters.
Comparison of magnetoresistances of triangular and rectangular ballistic graphene npn junctions
Authors: Morikawa Sei , Masubuchi Satroru , Watanabe Kenji , Taniguchi Takashi , Machida Tomoki
Published: September 2016

We compared the magnetotransport properties of ballistic graphene npn junctions with two different geometries. We found that a rectangular npn junction shows a positive magnetoresistance around zero magnetic field; this finding can be explained by the suppression of Klein tunneling in a finite magnetic field. In contrast, a triangular npn junction shows a negative magnetoresistance because the transmission is enhanced in a commensurability magnetic field where the ballistic carriers in a cyclotron motion are injected perpendicularly to both the np and pn interfaces. These results suggest possibilities for manipulating ballistic carrier trajectories through the designs of local-gate geometries.
Effects of spin fluctuation on the magnetic anisotropy constant of itinerant electron magnets
Authors: Kobayashi Naofumi , Hyodo Kazushige , Sakuma Akimasa
Published: September 2016

In the disordered local moment picture, we calculated the magnetization (M) and magnetic anisotropy energy (MAE) of FePt, CoPt, and MnAl ordered alloys and a body-centered tetragonal FeCo (bct-FeCo) disordered alloy, assuming spatially fluctuated spin configurations at finite temperatures. All alloys exhibit the relation K
1(T)/K
1(0) = (M(T)/M(0))
n
with the exponent n ≈ 2. This is consistent with the two-ion anisotropy model, in contrast to the usual single-ion anisotropy model exhibiting n = 3. Because these systems have different mechanisms of MAE, we suggest that this relation is a general rule for itinerant electron systems.
Growth of epitaxial tetragonal (Bi,K)TiO3 films and their ferroelectric and piezoelectric properties
Authors: Nemoto Yuichi , Ichinose Daichi , Shimizu Takao , Uchida Hiroshi , Yamaoka Wakiko , Sato Yusuke , Funakubo Hiroshi
Published: September 2016

(Bi,K)TiO3 films were grown on (001)
c
SrRuO3 // (100)SrTiO3 substrates by pulsed laser deposition (PLD) at various temperatures. The K/Ti and Bi/Ti ratios of the films were almost the same at 350 and 500 °C, but decreased markedly at 650 °C. The ferroelectric property was ascertained for epitaxial tetragonal (Bi,K)TiO3 films grown at 500 °C from polarization–electric field relationships, and their saturation polarization (P
sat) and coercive field (E
c) at a maximum electric field of 800 kV/cm were 18 µC/cm2 and 300 kV/cm, respectively. To improve the ferroelectric property, the films were heat-treated at 650 °C while keeping the films in the PLD chamber after film deposition. These films also maintained a (001)-oriented epitaxy and had a tetragonal symmetry. The P
sat and E
c obtained at an electric field of 800 kV/cm were changed to 22 µC/cm2 and 95 kV/cm, respectively. Moreover, these P
sat and E
c values increased to 31 µC/cm2 and 165 kV/cm, respectively, at a maximum electric field of 1500 kV/cm. These heat-treated (Bi,K)TiO3 films showed piezoelectricity with an apparent piezoelectric coefficient (d
33(AFM)) of 22 pm/V.
Off‐great‐circle paths in transequatorial propagation: 1. Discrete and diffuse types
Authors: Tsunoda Roland T. , Maruyama Takashi , Tsugawa Takuya , Yokoyama Tatsuhiro , Ishii Mamoru , Nguyen Trang T. , Ogawa Tadahiko , Nishioka Michi
Published: September 2016

There is mounting evidence that plasma structure in nighttime equatorial F layer evolves from large‐scale wave structure (LSWS) in the bottomside F layer. This process cannot be ignored because equatorial plasma bubbles (EPBs) arise from large‐amplitude LSWS; and, because intense radiowave scintillations are associated with EPBs, understanding the LSWS‐to‐EPB process is a crucial step toward reliable Space Weather Forecasting. In this regard, the transequatorial propagation (TEP) experiment appears to be the most useful among available research instruments. After a lapse of 30 years, the TEP experiment has been resurrected; a goal of this research is to understand TEP measurements well enough so that they can be used to diagnose the LSWS‐to‐EPB process. Toward this end, new results are presented in two companion papers. Herein (P1), off‐great‐circle (OGC) propagation paths are shown to consist of two types, discrete and diffuse. The new findings include the following: (1) a generalized multireflection model that can explain most of the observed properties; (2) the discrete type is supported by multireflections from an unstructured upwelling, (3) the diffuse type is supported by reflections from plasma structure in EPBs; and (4) the observed east‐west (EW) asymmetry can be explained in terms of a distorted upwelling or plasma structure along the west wall of an upwelling. In Paper 2 (P2), a second form of observed EW asymmetry is explained in terms of plasma structure, which is not aligned with the geomagnetic field. The findings strongly confirm a close relationship between upwellings, ESF patches, and OGC paths.
Zonally resolved impact of ENSO on the stratospheric circulation and water vapor entry values
Authors: Konopka Paul , Ploeger Felix , Tao Mengchu , Riese Martin
Published: September 2016

Based on simulations with the Chemical Lagrangian Model of the Stratosphere (CLaMS) for the period 1979–2013, with model transport driven by the ECMWF ERA‐Interim reanalysis, we discuss the impact of the El Niño Southern Oscillation (ENSO) on the variability of the dynamics, water vapor, ozone, and mean age of air (AoA) in the tropical lower stratosphere during boreal winter. Our zonally resolved analysis at the 390 K potential temperature level reveals that not only (deseasonalized) ENSO‐related temperature anomalies are confined to the tropical Pacific (180–300°E) but also anomalous wave propagation and breaking, as quantified in terms of the Eliassen‐Palm (EP) flux divergence, with strongest local contribution during the La Niña phase. This anomaly is coherent with respective anomalies of water vapor (±0.5 ppmv) and ozone (±100 ppbv) derived from CLaMS being in excellent agreement with the Aura Microwave Limb Sounder observations. Thus, during El Niño a more zonally symmetric wave forcing drives a deep branch of the Brewer‐Dobson (BD) circulation. During La Niña this forcing increases at lower levels (≈390 K) over the tropical Pacific, likely influencing the shallow branch of the BD circulation. In agreement with previous studies, wet (dry) and young (old) tape recorder anomalies propagate upward in the subsequent months following El Niño (La Niña). Using CLaMS, these anomalies are found to be around +0.3 (−0.2) ppmv and −4 (+4) months for water vapor and AoA, respectively. The AoA ENSO anomaly is more strongly affected by the residual circulation (≈2/3) than by eddy mixing (≈1/3).
A Froude‐scaled model of a bedrock‐alluvial channel reach: 1. Hydraulics
Authors: Hodge Rebecca A. , Hoey Trevor B.
Published: September 2016

The controls on hydraulics in bedrock‐alluvial rivers are relatively poorly understood, despite the importance of the flow in determining rates and patterns of sediment transport and consequent erosion. To measure hydraulics within a bedrock‐alluvial channel, we developed a 1:10 Froude‐scaled laboratory model of an 18 × 9 m bedrock‐alluvial river reach using terrestrial laser scanning and 3‐D printing. In the reported experiments, water depth and velocity were recorded at 18 locations within the channel at each of five different discharges. Additional data from runs with sediment cover in the flume were used to evaluate the hydraulic impact of sediment cover; the deposition and erosion of sediment patches in these runs are analyzed in the companion paper. In our data (1) spatial variation in both flow velocity and Froude number increases with discharge; (2) bulk flow resistance and Froude number become independent of discharge at higher discharges; (3) local flow velocity and Reynolds stress are correlated to the range of local bed topography at some, but not most, discharges; (4) at lower discharges, local topography induces vertical flow structures and slower velocities, but these effects decrease at higher discharges; and (5) there is a relationship between the linear combination of bed and sediment roughness and local flow velocity. These results demonstrate the control that bedrock topography exerts over both local and reach‐scale flow conditions, but spatially distributed hydraulic data from bedrock‐alluvial channels with different topographies are needed to generalize these findings.
A Froude‐scaled model of a bedrock‐alluvial channel reach: 2. Sediment cover
Authors: Hodge Rebecca A. , Hoey Trevor B.
Published: September 2016

Previous research into sediment cover in bedrock‐alluvial channels has focussed on total sediment cover, rather than the spatial distribution of cover within the channel. The latter is important because it determines the bedrock areas that are protected from erosion and the start and end of sediment transport pathways. We use a 1:10 Froude‐scaled model of an 18 by 9 m reach of a bedrock‐alluvial channel to study the production and erosion of sediment patches and hence the spatial relationships between flow, bed topography, and sediment dynamics. The hydraulic data from this bed are presented in the companion paper. In these experiments specified volumes of sediment were supplied at the upstream edge of the model reach as single inputs, at each of a range of discharges. This sediment formed patches, and once these stabilized, flow was steadily increased to erode the patches. In summary: (1) patches tend to initiate in the lowest areas of the bed, but areas of topographically induced high flow velocity can inhibit patch development; (2) at low sediment inputs the extent of sediment patches is determined by the bed topography and can be insensitive to the exact volume of sediment supplied; and (3) at higher sediment inputs more extensive patches are produced, stabilized by grain‐grain and grain‐flow interactions and less influenced by the bed topography. Bedrock topography can therefore be an important constraint on sediment patch dynamics, and topographic metrics are required that incorporate its within‐reach variability. The magnitude and timing of sediment input events controls reach‐scale sediment cover.
Identifying mantle lithosphere inheritance in controlling intraplate orogenesis
Authors: Heron Philip J. , Pysklywec Russell N. , Stephenson Randell
Published: September 2016

Crustal inheritance is often considered important in the tectonic evolution of the Wilson Cycle. However, the role of the mantle lithosphere is usually overlooked due to its difficulty to image and uncertainty in rheological makeup. Recently, increased resolution in lithosphere imaging has shown potential scarring in continental mantle lithosphere to be ubiquitous. In our study, we analyze intraplate deformation driven by mantle lithosphere heterogeneities from ancient Wilson Cycle processes and compare this to crustal inheritance deformation. We present 2‐D numerical experiments of continental convergence to generate intraplate deformation, exploring the limits of continental rheology to understand the dominant lithosphere layer across a broad range of geological settings. By implementing a “jelly sandwich” rheology, common in stable continental lithosphere, we find that during compression the strength of the mantle lithosphere is integral in generating deformation from a structural anomaly. We posit that if the continental mantle is the strongest layer within the lithosphere, then such inheritance may have important implications for the Wilson Cycle. Furthermore, our models show that deformation driven by mantle lithosphere scarring can produce tectonic patterns related to intraplate orogenesis originating from crustal sources, highlighting the need for a more formal discussion of the role of the mantle lithosphere in plate tectonics.
Fluorescence Imaging
Authors: Albani Jihad R.
Published: September 2016

A number of fluorescence imaging techniques show diagnostic promise. Imaging endogenous fluorescence has been proposed as a method for cancer diagnosis. Unfortunately, tissue auto fluorescence is relatively weak and poor contrast between malignant and normal tissue is seen. Contrast may be enhanced with the addition of fluorescent materials that are selectively accumulated by malignant cells, such as fluorescein or porphyrin derivatives. The limited penetration of light at the emission maxima of these materials restricts the use of fluorescence techniques utilizing these chromophores to superficial phenomena. However, many potential applications still exist. For example, monitoring fluorescence during surgery may allow resection margins to be clearly delineated.

Other exogenous chromophores that may have diagnostic utility include indocyanine green (ICG). Techniques based on visualization of the distribution of ICG fluorescence (i.e., choroidal angiography) are already prominent in ophthalmology. ICG fluorescence imaging may also find a useful niche in monitoring of burns and transplant tissue. In addition, monitoring of vascular parameters during cardiac surgery presents exciting opportunities. For example, low oxygen levels (e.g., during bypass surgery) in the heart can result in alterations in microvascular permeability. As ICG is largely bound to serum albumin, it should not be seen in extravascular spaces in normal hearts. However, increased permeability will allow albumin to diffuse into the extravascular spaces, and diffuse fluorescence across the surface of the heart will be seen. In principle, the infusion of polymers (e.g., dextrans) of various molecular weights labeled with dyes that fluoresce at various wavelengths will allow the assessment of the porosity of capillary beds in such systems.

Immunofluorescence techniques have the potential to provide unmatched sensitivity and specificity. The unique nature of antibody‐antigen interactions ensures specific delivery of the fluorophore to the site of interest. The specific interaction of labeled antibodies with antigens means that the fluorophore persists in the body for a prolonged period of time (days). Following a single injection of labeled antibody, repeated measurements on the same site over the course of hours or days allow kinetic information to be readily obtained. In principle, this means that the effect of therapeutic intervention, i.e., radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and so on, can be monitored.
Optical Emission Inductively Coupled Plasma in Environmental Analysis
Authors: Tatro Mark E. , Amarasiriwardena Dulasiri
Published: September 2016

The ability of the ICP‐OES (inductively coupled plasma‐optical emission spectroscopy) (or AES, atomic emission spectroscopy) system to perform multielement trace metal analysis of environmental samples provided commercial laboratories with the needed incentive to enter into the business of efficient trace metal analysis. Previously, trace metals were typically analyzed using colorimetric techniques, which were both cumbersome and subject to interferences, or flame atomic absorption techniques, which although almost interference free, were labor intensive owing to their one element at a time analytical mode. Even the furnace atomic absorption technique, for years the standard bearer of low‐level trace metal analysis, is giving way to axial and radial viewed ICP‐OES techniques. Now, ICP‐OES has become an affordable and well‐established multielement analytical method. The method has been successfully applied for wide range of sample matrices and analytical applications, and the availability of new generation of high‐resolution inductively coupled plasma‐optical emission spectroscopy HR‐ICP‐OES has offer new opportunities.

Taking the USEPA (United States Environmental Protection Agency) SW‐846 solid waste analysis manual as an example, this article reviews the methods used for the preparation of samples and the ICP‐OES analysis of the prepared samples for trace metals in environmental matrices. This article includes recent developments in front‐end improvements in ICP‐OES and detailed overview of the quality control (QC) requirements for environmental ICP‐OES analysis.
Nuclear Reaction Analysis
Authors: Trocellier Patrick , Berger Pascal , Wilde Markus
Published: September 2016

Among ion‐beam‐based analytical methods, the direct observation of nuclear reactions induced by highly energetic (MeV regime) charged particles is dedicated to the quantitative determination of volume distributions of light elements fromZ= 1 (H) toZ= 41 (Ga) in the near surface region of solids. In most cases, discrimination between their isotopes is enabled up to37Cl. The incident ions are generally protons, deuterons, helium‐3, or helium‐4 ions. Nuclear reactions induced by heavier ions are sometimes also used, mostly for hydrogen depth profiling. All these reactions are characterized by the prompt emission of charged particles (protons or helium‐4 ions) and/or γ‐rays. Nuclear reaction analysis (NRA), performed in ion millibeam or microbeam modes, is an efficient complement to charged particle‐induced X‐ray emission, Rutherford backscattering spectrometry, and elastic recoil detection methods. Its applications are all intended for either absolute quantification or tracing experiments. They cover a broad panorama from life sciences to cultural heritage artifacts, including metallurgy, Earth sciences, nanotechnology, and material science.
Semiconductor Quantum Dots in Bioanalysis
Authors: Costa‐Fernandez Jose M. , Fernandez‐Arguelles Maria T. , Sanz‐Medel Alfredo
Published: September 2016

Metal nanoparticle processing technologies have been widely developed to the extent that today it is possible to easily fabricate high‐quality photoluminescent semiconductor nanocrystals, known as ‘quantum dots’ (QDs). Nowadays, the commercial availability of QDs, with varied surface functionalization possibilities, has rendered them very attractive materials for optical sensing in general and biological applications in particular.

Current developments achieved by exploiting attractive optical properties of surface‐modified QDs to design and apply them for bioanalysis are revised. The bioconjugation of QDs with biorecognition molecules enables the synthesis of innovative fluorescent probes for in vitro and in vivo bioimaging in real‐time and long‐term applications. In addition, the use of such biomolecule‐QD nanohybrids, as a ‘passive’ fluorescent label in order to develop simple and multiplexed immunoassays, offers an extraordinary analytical potential. Besides, QDs have recently arisen considerable interest for the development of Förster resonance energy transfer‐based assays.

To conclude, a brief discussion about QDs toxicity issues, along with a short outlook on future directions of continuously growing QD‐based bioanalytical applications, are also included.
The
T
hird
W
ay in Analytical Nanoscience and Nanotechnology
Authors: Valcárcel Miguel , López‐Lorente Ángela I.
Published: September 2016

The subject matter of this article is the use of nanomaterials as tools (i.e. sorbents in microextraction techniques, optical sensors, vibrational spectroscopies, etc.) for the characterization and/or determination of nanoanalytes (analysis of the nanoworld). The so‐called Third Way is the combination of the two classical approaches of analytical nanoscience and nanotechnology (AN&N), namely, the use of nanotools and determination of nanoanalytes, looking for synergies between the two nanoparticles involved in the same analytical process. After an overview of AN&N, the definition, the objectives, and the types of Third Way processes in AN&N are outlined. Moreover, examples of analytical methodologies involving the use of nanotools (i.e. sorbents in (micro)extraction techniques) for the determination of nanomaterials involving different analytical techniques (i.e. optical sensors and vibrational spectroscopies) are systematically presented. Last but not least, a critical approach to the future of these analytical nanotechnological mixed processes is discussed.
Near‐Infrared/Infrared Bioanalysis Including Imaging
Authors: Huck Christian
Published: September 2016

In recent years, noninvasive or minimally invasive diagnostic applications in bioanalysis have enjoyed increased popularity. Near‐infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) is based on differences of endogenous chromophores in the biological system under investigation. Imaging techniques investigate, e.g. oxyhemoglobin (oxy‐Hb) or deoxyhemoglobin (deoxy‐Hb), lipid or water bands, or a combination of two or more of these markers. Such markers provide a basis not only for the diagnosis but also for the therapy monitoring several stages in the bioanalytical system. They can be successfully applied for the analysis of blood, urine, cells, and tissue, respectively. In this article, the fundamental and technical principle of NIRS including imaging techniques are described first, and then meaningful technical achievements are introduced. Finally, several examples of applications of NIRS including imaging in bioanalysis are discussed.
Ultrasound Features of the First Metatarsophalangeal Joint in Gout and Asymptomatic Hyperuricemia: Comparison With Normouricemic Individuals
Authors: Stewart Sarah , Dalbeth Nicola , Vandal Alain C. , Allen Bruce , Miranda Rhian , Rome Keith
Published: September 2016

Objective

The first metatarsophalangeal (MTP1) joint is frequently affected in gout. The aim of this study was to identify ultrasound features of the MTP1 joint in people with gout and people with asymptomatic hyperuricemia compared with normouricemic controls.

Methods

Participants with gout (n = 23) and asymptomatic hyperuricemia (n = 29), and age‐ and sex‐matched normouricemic control participants (n = 34), underwent a gray‐scale and power Doppler ultrasound assessment of bilateral MTP1 joints by a single musculoskeletal radiologist. No participants had clinical evidence of joint inflammation at the time of scanning. The static images were later read by 2 musculoskeletal radiologists for the presence of the double contour sign, tophus, erosion, effusion, synovial hypertrophy, synovitis, and cartilage thickness.

Results

Compared to normouricemic control participants, participants with gout and participants with asymptomatic hyperuricemia had more frequent double contour sign (odds ratio [OR] 3.91, P = 0.011 and OR 3.81, P = 0.009, respectively). Participants with gout also had more erosion (OR 10.13, P = 0.001) and synovitis (OR 9.00, P < 0.001) and had greater tophus and erosion diameters (P = 0.035 and P < 0.001, respectively). More severe erosion and synovitis grades and a less severe effusion grade were independently associated with gout compared with asymptomatic hyperuricemia (R2 = 0.65, P < 0.001).

Conclusion

Urate deposition, synovitis, and bone erosion are common at the MTP1 joint in people with gout, even in the absence of flare. Although individuals with asymptomatic hyperuricemia lack ultrasound features of inflammation or structural joint changes, they demonstrate a similar frequency of urate deposition.
Real‐World Experience and Impact of Canakinumab in Cryopyrin‐Associated Periodic Syndrome: Results From a French Observational Study
Authors: Kone‐Paut I. , Quartier P. , Fain O. , Grateau G. , Pillet P. , Le Blay P. , Bonnet F. , Despert V. , Stankovic‐Stojanovic K. , Willemin L. , Quéré S. , Reigneau O. , Hachulla E.
Published: September 2016

Objective

The ENVOL study was designed to assess the psychosocial impact of disease and therapy in a French cohort of cryopyrin‐associated periodic syndromes (CAPS) patients (and caregivers) treated with canakinumab.

Methods

The ENVOL study was a multicenter, observational study of CAPS patients given ≥1 canakinumab dose. Data were collected before treatment, at 6 and 12 months afterward, and at the last visit. Patients and caregivers completed questionnaires assessing changes from the 12 months of pretreatment to 12 months prior to interview. Data were analyzed retrospectively.

Results

The study included 10 physicians and 68 patients (53 adults, 15 children). Sixty‐five patients (95.6%) were still receiving canakinumab at the last visit (median 5 years after starting therapy). The mean ± SD score for patient‐reported general health increased from 7 ± 2.9 before canakinumab to 2.7 ± 2.7 after treatment (P < 0.001). Physical and emotional symptoms resolved or improved in a substantial proportion of patients, including bodily pain (38 of 46 patients), fever (32 of 39), skin disease (35 of 41), fatigue (31 of 47), self‐confidence (29 of 46), and energy (34 of 47). Social activity, relationships, sexuality, and energy measures improved in >40% of respondents. Caregivers spent a median of 3 versus 0.5 hours/week on care in the 12 months of pretreatment versus 12 months prior to interview (P < 0.001). Following treatment, patients required fewer consultations with general practitioners (mean ± SD per patient per year: 5.2 ± 7.4 versus 8.5 ± 7.2 pretreatment), internists/rheumatologists/dermatologists (2.0 ± 2.1 versus 3.7 ± 3.9), and pediatricians (1.8 ± 1.5 versus 4.4 ± 4.2).

Conclusion

Long‐term treatment with canakinumab achieves a highly relevant improvement in the physical, emotional, and social lives of patients with CAPS, accompanied by a marked reduction in support required from caregivers and in health care consultations.
Relationship Between Knee Pain and Patient Preferences for Joint Replacement: Health Care Access Matters
Authors: Vina Ernest R. , Ran Di , Ashbeck Erin L. , Kaur Manjinder , Kwoh C. Kent
Published: September 2016

Objective

To determine if severity of osteoarthritis‐related knee pain is associated with a willingness to undergo total knee replacement (TKR) and whether this association is confounded or modified by components of socioeconomic status and health care coverage.

Methods

Cross‐sectional analysis was conducted among 3,530 Osteoarthritis Initiative study participants. Logistic regression models were used to assess the effect of knee pain severity (where 0 = none, 1–3 = mild, 4–7 = moderate, and 8–10 = severe) on willingness to undergo TKR. Stratified analyses were conducted to evaluate whether socioeconomic status and health care coverage modify the effect of knee pain severity on willingness.

Results

Participants with severe knee pain, compared to participants without pain, were less willing to undergo TKR (odds ratio [OR] 0.73, 95% confidence interval [95% CI] 0.57–0.93). This association was attenuated when adjusted for age, sex, comorbidity, depression, health insurance coverage, prescription medicine coverage, health care source, education, income, employment, race, and marital status (adjusted OR 0.92, 95% CI 0.68–1.24). The odds of willingness to undergo TKR were significantly lower in those with the highest level of pain, compared to those without pain, among participants without health insurance (adjusted OR 0.08, 95% CI 0.01–0.56), but not among those with health insurance (adjusted OR 1.03, 95% CI 0.73–1.38), when adjusted for demographic, clinical, health care access, and socioeconomic factors (P = 0.015). However, <5% of participants were without health insurance.

Conclusion

Among participants without health insurance, severe knee pain was paradoxically associated with less willingness to undergo TKR. Policies that improve access to quality health care may affect patient preferences and increase utilization of TKR surgery among vulnerable populations.
Direct Observation of Ferroelectric Domain Walls in LiNbO3: Wall‐Meanders, Kinks, and Local Electric Charges
Authors: Gonnissen Julie , Batuk Dmitry , Nataf Guillaume F. , Jones Lewys , Abakumov Artem M. , Van Aert Sandra , Schryvers Dominique , Salje Ekhard K. H.
Published: September 2016

Direct observations of the ferroelectric domain boundaries in LiNbO3 are performed using high‐resolution high‐angle annular dark field scanning transmission electron microscopy imaging, revealing a very narrow width of the domain wall between the 180° domains. The domain walls demonstrate local side‐way meandering, which results in inclinations even when the overall wall orientation follows the ferroelectric polarization. These local meanders contain kinks with “head‐to‐head” and “tail‐to‐tail” dipolar configurations and are therefore locally charged. The charged meanders are confined to a few cation layers along the polarization direction and are separated by longer stretches of straight domain walls.
Functional Single‐Walled Carbon Nanotubes and Nanoengineered Networks for Organic‐ and Perovskite‐Solar‐Cell Applications
Authors: Barbero David R. , Stranks Samuel D.
Published: September 2016

Carbon nanotubes have a variety of remarkable electronic and mechanical properties that, in principle, lend them to promising optoelectronic applications. However, the field has been plagued by heterogeneity in the distributions of synthesized tubes and uncontrolled bundling, both of which have prevented nanotubes from reaching their full potential. Here, a variety of recently demonstrated solution‐processing avenues is presented, which may combat these challenges through manipulation of nanoscale structures. Recent advances in polymer‐wrapping of single‐walled carbon nanotubes (SWNTs) are shown, along with how the resulting nanostructures can selectively disperse tubes while also exploiting the favorable properties of the polymer, such as light‐harvesting ability. New methods to controllably form nanoengineered SWNT networks with controlled nanotube placement are discussed. These nanoengineered networks decrease bundling, lower the percolation threshold, and enable a strong enhancement in charge conductivity compared to random networks, making them potentially attractive for optoelectronic applications. Finally, SWNT applications, to date, in organic and perovskite photovoltaics are reviewed, and insights as to how the aforementioned recent advancements can lead to improved device performance provided.
Excited State Modulation for Organic Afterglow: Materials and Applications
Authors: Xu Shen , Chen Runfeng , Zheng Chao , Huang Wei
Published: September 2016

Organic afterglow materials, developed recently by breaking through the difficulties in modulating ultrafast‐decayed excited states, exhibit ultralong‐lived emission for persistent luminescence with lifetimes of several orders of magnitude longer than traditional fluorescent and phosphorescent emissions at room temperature. Their exceptional properties, namely ultralong luminescent lifetime, large Stokes shifts, facile excited state transformation, and environmentally sensitive emission, have led to a diverse range of advanced optoelectronic applications. Here, the organic afterglow is reviewed from the perspective of fundamental concepts on both phenomenon and mechanism, examining the technical challenges in relation to excited state tuning and lifetime elongation. In particular, the advances in material design strategies that afford a large variety of organic afterglow materials for a broad utility in optoelectronics including lighting and displays, anti‐counterfeiting, optical recording, chemical sensors and bio‐imaging are highlighted.
Hot‐Electrons Mediated Efficient Visible‐Light Photocatalysis of Hierarchical Black Au–TiO2 Nanorod Arrays on Flexible Substrate
Authors: Shi Huimin , Wang Xuejiao , Zheng Mengjie , Wu Xing , Chen Yiqin , Yang Zhengmei , Zhang Guanhua , Duan Huigao
Published: September 2016

Rational engineering hierarchical 3D nanostructures with high visible‐light photocatalysis and long‐term cycling stability are of great importance in environmental purification and energy conversion. A novel and scalable approach is demonstrated to fabricate hierarchical plasmon‐resonance‐induced black Au–TiO2 nanorod arrays (NRAs) on flexible carbon cloth (CC). With the advantages of hierarchical morphology, plasmon‐enhanced visible‐light absorption, facile charge separation enabled by single‐crystalline TiO2 and conductive substrate, the black Au–TiO2 NRAs on CC show more than 13 times higher visible‐light photocatalytic efficiency enhancement compared to that of bare TiO2 NRAs. Meanwhile, the hybrid Au–TiO2–C system shows extremely high chemical and mechanical stability. The visible‐light photocatalysis does not show any decrease after consecutive seven times test. More remarkably, after being continuously stirred in aqueous solution for 60 d, almost no decrease of photocatalytic activity is observed. The UV–vis absorption measurement, optical simulations, and the control experiment on hierarchical Au–SiO2@TiO2 NRAs reveal that the enhanced visible‐light photocatalysis is caused by the plasmon‐induced hot‐electrons transfer from Au nanoparticles to neighboring TiO2 NRAs. The high visible‐light photocatalytic performance and the excellent chemical/mechanical stabilities imply that the black Au–TiO2 NRAs on CC can serve as potential photocatalytic materials for large‐scale applications in energy conversion and pollutants purification.
Tandem Architecture of Perovskite and Cu(In,Ga)(S,Se)2 Created by Solution Processes for Solar Cells
Authors: Lee Minoh , Park Se Jin , Hwang Yun Jeong , Jun Yongseok , Min Byoung Koun
Published: September 2016

Integrating tandem solar cell architectures into devices can improve their power conversion efficiency (PCE) by overcoming the limited incident light absorption range of a single absorber and reducing the thermalization loss. Here, fabricated tandem solar cells are successfully fabricated employing different absorber materials, in this case perovskite and Cu(In,Ga)(S,Se)2 (CIGS) as top and bottom cells, respectively. For cost effectiveness most tandem device manufacturing processes are achieved by solution‐based methods, which even provide the electrode layers. Using such a process to create a tandem device, a PCE of 8.34% for the semitransparent perovskite top solar cell and 2.48% for the CIGS bottom solar cell is obtained, resulting in an overall efficiency of 10.82% for the four‐terminal tandem device. This result highlights the potential of this solution‐based tandem configuration as a way to facilitate the creation of simple and inexpensive efficient light‐utilizing solar cell devices.
Enantioselective Ring Opening Reactions of Azabenzonorbornadienes with Carboxylic Acids
Authors: Zhou Yongyun , Gu Cuiping , Chen Jingchao , Zhu Meina , Yang Fan , Xu Jianbin , Fan Baomin
Published: September 2016

The palladium/silver (Pd/Ag) co‐catalytic system was found to be effective for the enantioselective ring opening reactions of the low reactive azabenzonorbornadienes with weak nucleophilic carboxylic acids. Both aryl and alkyl carboxylic acids are suitable nucleophiles and afforded the cis ring opening products in good yields with excellent enantioselectivities. The absolute configuration of one of the products has been confirmed by X‐ray crystal structure analysis, and a plausible reaction pathway is proposed.

magnified image
Nickel‐Catalyzed Denitrated Coupling Reaction of Nitroalkenes with Aliphatic and Aromatic Alkenes
Authors: Zhang Na , Quan Zheng‐Jun , Wang Xi‐Cun
Published: September 2016

A simple and practical denitrated coupling reaction of nitroalkenes with various alkenes using a nickel catalyst and triethoxysilane [(EtO)3SiH] as reducing agent was achieved. Under mild reaction conditions, both aliphatic and aromatic alkenes could react with nitroalkenes to obtain a series of olefins with different functional groups in satisfactory yields under an air atmosphere, which were previously difficult or impossible to access.

magnified image
Simultaneous removal of NO and SO2 using aqueous peroxymonosulfate with coactivation of Cu2+/Fe3+ and high temperature
Authors: Liu Yangxian , Wang Yan
Published: September 2016

A novel process on simultaneous removal of NO and SO2 using aqueous peroxymonosulfate (PMS) with synergic activation of Cu2+/Fe3+ and high temperature in an impinging stream reactor is developed for the first time. Effects of PMS concentration, Cu2+/Fe3+ concentration, reaction temperature, solution pH, flue gas flow, liquid–gas ratio, gas components, and inorganic ions on NO/SO2 removals were investigated. Active species and products were determined by electron spin resonance spectroscopy and ion chromatography. Removal pathways of NO/SO2 were revealed, and mass transfer‐reaction kinetics of NO removal was studied. The optimal experimental conditions are obtained. H2SO4 and HNO3 are the main products. It is found that there is a clear synergy between Cu2+/Fe3+ and high temperature for activating PMS.
and ·OH are found to be the main oxidants for NO removal. NO removals belong to pseudo‐first fast reactions in the two investigated oxidation systems. Besides, the kinetic parameters are also measured. © 2016 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 63: 1287–1302, 2017
Overcoming the Crystallization Bottleneck: A Family of Gigantic Inorganic {Pdx}L (x=84, 72) Palladium Macrocycles Discovered using Solution Techniques
Authors: Christie Lorna G. , Surman Andrew J. , Scullion Rachel A. , Xu Feng , Long De‐Liang , Cronin Leroy
Published: September 2016

The {Pd84}Ac wheel, initially discovered serendipitously, is the only reported giant palladium macrocycle—a unique structure that spontaneously assembles from small building blocks. Analogues of this structure are elusive. A new modular route to {Pd84}Ac is described, allowing incorporation of other ligands, and a new screening approach to cluster discovery. Structural assignments were made of new species from solution experiments, overcoming the need for crystallographic analysis. As a result, two new palladium macrocycles were discovered: a structural analogue of the existing {Pd84}Ac wheel with glycolate ligands, {Pd84}Gly, and the next in a magic number series for this cluster family—a new {Pd72}Prop wheel decorated with propionate ligands. These findings confirm predictions of a magic number rule for the family of {Pdx} macrocycles. Furthermore, structures with variable fractions of functional ligands were obtained. Together these discoveries establish palladium clusters as a new class of tunable nanostructures. In facilitating the discovery of species that would not have been discovered by orthodox crystallization approaches, this work also demonstrates the value of solution‐based screening and characterization in cluster chemistry, as a means to decouple cluster formation, discovery, and isolation.
Aryl Radical Geometry Determines Nanographene Formation on Au(111)
Authors: Jacobse Peter H. , van den Hoogenband Adri , Moret Marc‐Etienne , Klein Gebbink Robertus J. M. , Swart Ingmar
Published: September 2016

The Ullmann coupling has been used extensively as a synthetic tool for the formation of C−C bonds on surfaces. Thus far, most syntheses made use of aryl bromides or aryl iodides. We investigated the applicability of an aryl chloride in the bottom‐up assembly of graphene nanoribbons. Specifically, the reactions of 10,10′‐dichloro‐9,9′‐bianthryl (DCBA) on Au(111) were studied. Using atomic resolution non‐contact AFM, the structure of various coupling products and intermediates were resolved, allowing us to reveal the important role of the geometry of the intermediate aryl radicals in the formation mechanism. For the aryl chloride, cyclodehydrogenation occurs before dehalogenation and polymerization. Due to their geometry, the planar bisanthene radicals display a different coupling behavior compared to the staggered bianthryl radicals formed when aryl bromides are used. This results in oligo‐ and polybisanthenes with predominantly fluoranthene‐type connections.