bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of nanocellulose fibers and acetylated nanocellulose fibers on properties of poly(ethylene‐co‐vinyl acetate) foams
Authors: Zimmermann Matheus Vinícius Gregory , da Silva Michelle Paola , Zattera Ademir José , Campomanes Santana Ruth Marlene
Published: January 2017

Cellulose nanofibers are promising materials in the development of polymeric foams, because they act as heterogeneous nucleation sites for the growth of cells during foaming. In this research, we studied the incorporation of cellulose nanoparticles in poly(ethylene‐co‐vinyl acetate)‐EVA foams. The foams were produced with different fiber contents. We observed the effect of a chemical treatment by acetylation on the cellulose fibber, that is, we evaluated the use of hydrophilic and hydrophobic cellulose nanofibers in EVA foams. The main results indicate that with the addition of only 1% of cellulose nanofibers, cell density significantly reduces when compared with the pure EVA foams. On the other hand, by increasing the cellulose content, the agglomeration of nanofibers also increases, which results in heterogeneous cell sizes. The same phenomenon was observed in the foams produced with acetylated cellulose nanofibers, regardless of the fiber content used. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2017, 134, 44760.
Buildup of hyperbranched polymer/alginate multilayers and their influence on protein adsorption and platelet adhesion
Authors: Liang Su , Zhou Ning , Yu Shan , Polotakos N. , Deng Jun , Moya Sergio Enrique , Gao Changyou
Published: January 2017

A hyperbranched poly(methylene bisacrylamide–aminoethyl piperazine) (HPMA) and lactobionic acid modified hyperbranched poly(methylene bisacrylamide–aminoethyl piperazine) (LA–HPMA), namely, galactosylated HPMA, were assembled with alginate through the application of the layer‐by‐layer technique to fabricate polyelectrolyte multilayer (PEM) films. We monitored the assembly process to reveal the stepwise mass increase with a quartz crystal microbalance with the dissipation technique and by the reversal of the ζ potential. The thickness of PEMs assembled in solutions with different pHs was measured by spectroscopic ellipsometry; it showed a general decreasing tendency along with the pH increase. Postincubation in a buffer solution revealed that the multilayers possessed good stability with a thickness decrease from 5 to 15%. The PEMs showed a limited protein adsorption. Serum, bovine serum albumin, and fibrinogen were adsorbed onto the multilayers with a density within hundreds of nanograms per square centimeter to 1 μg/cm2 and showed a relatively smaller adsorption on the multilayers assembled at pH 9. The PEMs assembled with LA–HPMA showed the lowest adhesion and activation of platelets, regardless of the outmost layer. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2017, 134, 44769.
Supercritical carbon dioxide (scCO2) dispersion of poly(ethylene terephthalate)/clay nanocomposites: Structural, mechanical, thermal, and barrier properties
Authors: Yang Fengyuan , Mubarak Christopher , Keiegel Robert , Kannan Rangaramanujam M.
Published: January 2017

Dispersed poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET)/clay nanocomposites can lead to materials with superior barrier and mechanical properties. PET/clay nanocomposites were prepared by melting extrusion of PET with as‐received or supercritical carbon dioxide (scCO2) predispersed Cloisite® 30B (30B). The predispersion of 30B was assessed by WAXD, SEM, and TGA, and results indicated that scCO2 processing could predisperse 30B and the surface modification of the clay was preserved after processing. The structure of PET/30B nanocomposites was investigated by WAXD and TEM confirming that PET has penetrated into the clays inter‐galleries and the predispersed clays lead to improved interfacial interaction and homogenous clay dispersion. Both tensile strength and Young's modulus were improved by 12.1% and 24.9% respectively, as incorporating of 3 wt % of scCO2 processed clay. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) results indicated that clay particles served as nucleation agent could increase the crystallinity whereas had no impact on melting process. In addition, with the addition of 1 wt % of predispersed clay, a significant reduction of oxygen permeation (∼33%) was achieved at 23 °C and the maximum reduction (44%) was achieved by adding 3 wt % processed clay. Moreover, we confirmed the effect of temperature on the permeation of PET/30B nanocomposites depended both on the Arrhenius behavior of the organic phases and tortuous path effects, where improved clay dispersion resulted in a higher effective activation energy. Moreover, the transparency of PET matrix was preserved for all nanocomposites. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2017, 134, 44779.
Efficacy of 50 Hz electromagnetic fields on human epidermal stem cell transplantation seeded in collagen sponge scaffolds for wound healing in a murine model
Authors: Bai Wen‐Fang , Xu Wei‐Cheng , Zhu Hong‐Xiang , Huang Hong , Wu Bo , Zhang Ming‐Sheng
Published: January 2017

To explore the possible efficacy of electromagnetic fields (EMF) for skin tissue engineering, effects of EMF exposure on epidermal stem cells (ESC) seeded in collagen sponge scaffolds for wound healing in a murine model were investigated. The wound models of a full‐thickness defect established with 36 7 ∼ 8‐week‐old nude mice were randomly divided into three groups: a control group, an ESC‐only group, and an ESC with EMF exposure group (frequency of 50 Hz, magnetic induction of 5 mT, 60 min per day for 20 days). ESC were separated from human foreskin and cultured in vitro, and then transplanted with collagen sponge scaffolds as a delivery vehicle to wounds of the ESC‐only group, and ESC with EMF exposure group was exposed to EMF after ESC transplantation. Effects of EMF on morphological changes and expression of β1 integrin in regenerated skins were observed. Wound healing rates and healing times were collected to evaluate the efficacy of repairment. Results showed that human ESC were successfully transplanted to nude mice, which facilitated the formation of intact skin on nude mice. In contrast to other groups, the wound healing of ESC with EMF exposure group was the fastest (P < 0.05), the structure of regenerated skins was more mature, and it contained more continuity in the number of viable cell layers and rich hair follicles’ structure. These results suggest that the use of 50 Hz EMF as a non‐invasive treatment can accelerate wound healing of ESC transplantation, and restore structural integrity of regenerated skin. Bioelectromagnetics. 38:204–212,2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Bacterial microcompartment‐directed polyphosphate kinase promotes stable polyphosphate accumulation in E. coli
Authors: Liang Mingzhi , Frank Stefanie , Lünsdorf Heinrich , Warren Martin J. , Prentice Michael B.
Published: January 2017

Processes for the biological removal of phosphate from wastewater rely on temporary manipulation of bacterial polyphosphate levels by phased environmental stimuli. In E. coli polyphosphate levels are controlled via the polyphosphate‐synthesizing enzyme polyphosphate kinase (PPK1) and exopolyphosphatases (PPX and GPPA), and are temporarily enhanced by PPK1 overexpression and reduced by PPX overexpression. We hypothesised that partitioning PPK1 from cytoplasmic exopolyphosphatases would increase and stabilise E. coli polyphosphate levels. Partitioning was achieved by co‐expression of E. coli PPK1 fused with a microcompartment‐targeting sequence and an artificial operon of Citrobacter freundii bacterial microcompartment genes. Encapsulation of targeted PPK1 resulted in persistent phosphate uptake and stably increased cellular polyphosphate levels throughout cell growth and into the stationary phase, while PPK1 overexpression alone produced temporary polyphosphate increase and phosphate uptake. Targeted PPK1 increased polyphosphate in microcompartments 8‐fold compared with non‐targeted PPK1. Co‐expression of PPX polyphosphatase with targeted PPK1 had little effect on elevated cellular polyphosphate levels because microcompartments retained polyphosphate. Co‐expression of PPX with non‐targeted PPK1 reduced cellular polyphosphate levels. Thus, subcellular compartmentalisation of a polymerising enzyme sequesters metabolic products from competing catabolism by preventing catabolic enzyme access. Specific application of this process to polyphosphate is of potential application for biological phosphate removal.
Translational research in surgical oncology
Authors: Søreide K , Sund M
Published: January 2017

Surgeons need to get involved
P450 BM3‐Catalyzed Regio‐ and Stereoselective Hydroxylation Aiming at the Synthesis of Phthalides and Isocoumarins
Authors: Holec Claudia , Hartrampf Ute , Neufeld Katharina , Pietruszka Jörg
Published: January 2017

Cytochrome P450 BM3 monooxygenases are able to catalyze the regio‐ and stereoselective oxygenation of a broad range of substrates, with promising potential for synthetic applications. To study the suitability of P450 BM3 variants for stereoselective benzylic hydroxylation of 2‐alkylated benzoic acid esters, the biotransformation of methyl 2‐ethylbenzoate, resulting in both enantiomeric forms of 3‐methylphthalide, was investigated. In the case of methyl 2‐propylbenzoate as a substrate the regioselectivity of the reaction was shifted towards β‐hydroxylation, resulting in the synthesis of enantioenriched R‐ and S‐configured 3‐methylisochroman‐1‐one. The potential of P450 BM3 variants for regio‐ and stereoselective synthesis of phthalides and isocoumarins offers a new route to a class of compounds that are valuable synthons for a variety of natural compounds.
Towards the Broad Utilization of Gold Nanoparticles Entrapped in Organosilica
Authors: Ciriminna Rosaria , Scandura Gabriele , Pandarus Valerica , Delisi Riccardo , Scurria Antonino , Béland François , Palmisano Giovanni , Pagliaro Mario
Published: January 2017

SiliaCat Au, a nanoscale gold sol–gel hybrid material, was employed in the selective oxidation of alcohols under solvent‐free conditions with oxygen as the primary oxidant. The catalyst is recyclable, and a thorough structural investigation, which included thermogravimetric analysis coupled to mass spectrometry, revealed structural details that will be useful in the development of new applications for this functional material to other areas of catalysis, analytical chemistry, bioimaging, and photonics.
Samarium‐Catalyzed Diastereoselective Double Addition of Phenylphosphine to Imines and Mechanistic Studies by DFT Calculations
Authors: Li Jianfeng , Lamsfus Carlos Alvarez , Song Changhong , Liu Jinxi , Fan Guilan , Maron Laurent , Cui Chunming
Published: January 2017

The catalytic hydrophosphination of imines represents the most straightforward and atom‐economical strategy for the preparation of α‐aminophosphines, which are useful as biologically active molecules and ligands for catalysis. The first catalytic protocol for the rapid and high‐yielding hydrophosphination of common imines enabled by an ene–diamido samarium methoxide catalyst was developed. The reaction allowed the efficient and diastereoselective synthesis of various bis(α‐amino)phosphines through the double addition of PhPH2 to common imines. The catalytic reaction has a relatively wide substrate scope and offers high diastereoselectivities (up to 99:1 dr for meso products) and high yields (up to 97 %). DFT calculations disclosed an inner‐sphere mechanism involving unprecedented activation of a Sm−O bond by a phosphine and stabilization of the addition intermediates by the metal center.
Engineering Ultrathin Co(OH)2 Nanosheets on Dandelion–like CuCo2O4 Microspheres for Binder‐Free Supercapacitors
Authors: Zhang Yan , Liu Hong , Huang Ming , Zhang Jun Ming , Zhang Wei , Dong Fan , Zhang Yu Xin
Published: January 2017

A stepwise synthetic approach is developed for large‐scale growth of three‐dimensional branched CuCo2O4@Co(OH)2 core−shell structures on nickel foam as a high‐performance supercapacitor electrode. The synthesis procedure involves the hydrothermal treatment of a bimetallic (Cu, Co) hydroxide precursor on a Ni foam substrate and subsequent thermal transformation to dandelion‐like CuCo2O4 microspheres. The Co(OH)2 shells are then coated onto the branches of as‐prepared CuCo2O4 microspheres by using an electrodeposition method. The loading of Co(OH)2 nanosheets is dependent on the electrodeposition time in Co(NO3)2 solution. The resulting unique core−shell structure promotes fast electron and ion transport, large electroactive surface area, and excellent structural stability. As a result, superior electrochemical performance is achieved with a specific capacitance of 424 F g−1 at a current density of 0.5 A g −1, and good cycling performance (85.8 % retention after 10000 cycles), suggesting its promising application in supercapacitors. These good electrochemical properties could be attributed to the synergic interaction of each component. In addition, the asymmetric supercapacitor exhibits an energy density of 19.2 Wh kg−1 at a power density of 350 W kg−1.
Highly Sensitive Electrochemiluminescence Assay for Cardiac Troponin I and Adenosine Triphosphate by using Supersandwich Amplification and Bifunctional Aptamer
Authors: Liu Xia , Liu Huiwen , Li Min , Qi Honglan , Gao Qiang , Zhang Chengxiao
Published: January 2017

A highly sensitive electrochemiluminescence (ECL) assay was developed for sequential detection of cardiac troponin I (cTnI) and adenosine triphosphate (ATP) through supersandwich amplification and bifunctional aptamer. The bifunctional aptamer (S1) contained ATP binding aptamer and cTnI binding aptamer. A gold electrode was modified with the specific peptide of cTnI through a self‐assembly technique. A sandwich‐type conjugate (peptide 
 S1) was formed when the peptide‐modified electrode was successively reacted with cTnI and S1. Then, hybridizations between S1 and two ss‐DNA auxiliary probes, in which one is complementary with ATP binding aptamer and the other is ATP binding aptamer, led to the formation of long‐range ds‐DNA on the electrode surface. In the presence of ECL indicator Ru(phen)32+, a large amount of Ru(phen)32+ was intercalated into ds‐DNA grooves, resulting in amplification of the ECL signals. The ECL assay was successfully developed for the detection of cTnI in the range of 8.0×10−13 to 1.0×10−11 g/mL based on the increased ECL intensity. After detecting cTnI, ATP was detected in the range of 30 to 500 nM, based on switching structures of aptamers from ds‐DNA to ss‐DNA/target complex. A low detection limit of 0.3 pg/mL and 10 nM for cTnI and ATP, respectively, was obtained. The employment of a bifunctional aptamer probe and supersandwich signal amplification is promising for the sensitive detection of multiple targets.
Local Proton Source in Electrocatalytic CO2 Reduction with [Mn(bpy–R)(CO)3Br] Complexes
Authors: Franco Federico , Cometto Claudio , Nencini Luca , Barolo Claudia , Sordello Fabrizio , Minero Claudio , Fiedler Jan , Robert Marc , Gobetto Roberto , Nervi Carlo
Published: January 2017

The electrochemical behavior of fac‐[Mn(pdbpy)(CO)3Br] (pdbpy=4‐phenyl‐6‐(phenyl‐2,6‐diol)‐2,2′‐bipyridine) (1) in acetonitrile under Ar, and its catalytic performances for CO2 reduction with added water, 2,2,2‐trifluoroethanol (TFE), and phenol are discussed in detail. Preparative‐scale electrolysis experiments, carried out at −1.5 V versus the standard calomel electrode (SCE) in CO2‐saturated acetonitrile, reveal that the process selectivity is extremely sensitive to the acid strength, producing CO and formate in different faradaic yields. A detailed spectroelectrochemical (IR and UV/Vis) study under Ar and CO2 atmospheres shows that 1 undergoes fast solvolysis; however, dimer formation in acetonitrile is suppressed, resulting in an atypical reduction mechanism in comparison with other reported MnI catalysts. Spectroscopic evidence of Mn hydride formation supports the existence of different electrocatalytic CO2 reduction pathways. Furthermore, a comparative investigation performed on the new fac‐[Mn(ptbpy)(CO)3Br] (ptbpy=4‐phenyl‐6‐(phenyl‐3,4,5‐triol)‐2,2′‐bipyridine) catalyst (2), bearing a bipyridyl derivative with OH groups in different positions to those in 1, provides complementary information about the role that the local proton source plays during the electrochemical reduction of CO2.
Sorption of Hg(II) and Zn(II) ions using lignocellulosic sorbent (date pits)
Authors: Rezgui Amina , Guibal Eric , Boubakera Taoufik
Published: January 2017

This work focuses on the study of Hg(II) and Zn(II) sorption using pristine date pits. The effect of pH is evaluated before considering the influence of both temperature and contact time on sorption efficiency. Sorption isotherms are also determined and modelled using conventional models such as Langmuir, Freundlich, and Dubinin‐Radushkevich (D‐R) equations. The best fit was obtained with the Langmuir equation and maximum sorption capacities reached 38.5 and 52.6 mg · g−1, for Hg(II) and Zn(II), respectively. An analysis of the temperature effect by the Gibbs equation showed that the sorption is exothermic and spontaneous. The mean free energy of sorption (obtained from D‐R equation) confirms that metal binding occurs through a chemical ion‐exchange mechanism. The kinetic profiles can be accurately fitted with the pseudo‐second order rate equation. Complementary analyses (using FTIR spectrometry and SEM‐EDX analysis) confirm that ion‐exchange is the main binding mechanism, though a contribution of surface complexation cannot be neglected.
Detection and measurement of radio frequency feedback for an on‐frequency repeater
Authors: Zeher Amar , Bilbault Jean‐Marie , Binczak Stéphane
Published: January 2017

The radio frequency feedback (RFF) occurs when the insulation is insufficient between the antennas of an on‐frequency repeater, increasing digital transmission errors. In addition, a strong RFF could compromise system stability of the on‐frequency repeater because of the growing power in the closed‐loop. Automatic gain control is widely used by the on‐frequency repeater to regulate the power, this solution being generally used with echo cancellation processes. Most of echo cancellation techniques are based on digital processing such as adaptive filters whose the effectiveness and the algorithm speed are depending on the signal frequency, the bandwidth and the closed‐loop parameters. This paper describes a solution of RFF estimation and detection regardless of the receiving signal modulation. By using the frequency scanning and the analysis of the power spectral density peaks in the system, this solution is reliable whatever are the values of the gain‐margin and the loop‐delay. Simulations and experimental implementation using field‐programmable gate array validate the solution. In addition, an example of applications is given in the context of the interference cancellation.
Is there an optimal length of psychological treatment for eating disorder pathology?
Authors: Bell Caroline , Waller Glenn , Shafran Roz , Delgadillo Jaime
Published: January 2017

Treatment guidelines for eating disorders (ED) are unclear about the optimal length of psychological care. We aimed to investigate associations between treatment duration and changes in ED pathology. Data for 164 outpatients accessing psychological interventions for ED were analyzed using MANOVA. We tested associations between number of therapy sessions and pre‐post treatment changes in clinical outcomes (EDE‐Q global scores, binge eating, purging); adjusting for baseline measures, diagnoses, and treatment type. Secondary analyses included rapid response variables in the above outcomes by treatment session eight. Partial correlations between treatment duration and BMI changes (adjusting for intake BMI) were examined for anorexia nervosa cases. Treatment duration was not significantly associated with changes in ED outcomes after adjusting for rapid response. BMI change (weight regain) was not correlated with treatment duration in anorexia nervosa cases. Rapid response was associated with better EDE‐Q outcomes, but not with changes in binge eating or purging behaviors. ED outcomes are unrelated to treatment duration; rapid response is a useful prognostic indicator for treatment planning.
Organoaluminium Complexes Derived from Anilines or Schiff Bases for the Ring‐Opening Polymerization of ε‐Caprolactone, δ‐Valerolactone and rac‐Lactide
Authors: Wang Xue , Zhao Ke‐Qing , Al‐Khafaji Yahya , Mo Shangyan , Prior Timothy J. , Elsegood Mark R. J. , Redshaw Carl
Published: January 2017

Reaction of R1R2CHN=CH(3,5‐tBu2C6H2‐OH‐2) (R1 = R2 = Me L1H; R1 = Me, R2 = Ph L2H; R1 = R2 = Ph L3H) with slightly greater than one equivalent of R33Al (R3 = Me, Et) afforded the complexes [(L1–3)AlR32] (L1, R3 = Me 1, R3 = Et 2; L2, R3 = Me 3, R3 = Et 4; L3 R3 = Me 5, R3 = Et 6); complex 1 has been previously reported. Use of the N,O‐ligand derived from 2,2′‐diphenylglycine afforded either 5 or the byproduct [Ph2NCH2(3,5‐tBu2C6H2‐O‐2)AlMe2] (7). The known Schiff base complex [2‐Ph2PC6H4CH2(3,5‐tBu2C6H2‐O‐2)AlMe2] (8) and the product of the reaction of 2‐diphenylphosphinoaniline 1‐NH2,2‐PPh2C6H4 with Me3Al, namely {Ph2PC6H4N[(Me2Al)2µ‐Me](µ‐Me2Al)} (9), were also isolated. For structural and catalytic comparisons, complexes resulting from the interaction of Me3Al with diphenylamine (or benzhydrylamine), namely {Ph2N[(Me2Al)2µ‐Me]} (10) and [Ph2CHNH(µ‐Me2Al)]2·MeCN (11), were prepared. The molecular structures of the Schiff proligands derived from Ph2CHNH2 and 2,2′‐Ph2C(CO2H)(NH2), together with those of complexes 5, 7 and 9–11·MeCN were determined; 5 contains a chelating imino/phenoxide ligand, whereas 7 contains the imino function outside of the metallocyclic ring. Complex 9 contains three nitrogen‐bound Al centres, two of which are linked by a methyl bridge, whilst the third bridges the N and P centres. In 10, the structure resembles 9 with a bridging methyl group, whereas the introduction of the extra carbon in 11 results in the formation of a dimer. All complexes have been screened for their ability to promote the ring‐opening polymerization (ROP) ε‐caprolactone, δ‐valerolactone or rac‐lactide, in the presence of benzyl alcohol, with or without solvent present. Reasonable conversions were achievable at room temperature for ε‐caprolactone when using complexes 7, 9 and 12, whilst at higher temperatures (80–110 °C), all complexes produced good (> 65 %) to quantitative conversions over periods as short as 3 min, albeit with poor control. In the absence of solvent, conversions were nearly quantitative at 80 °C in 5 min with better agreement between observed and calculated molecular weight (Mn). For rac‐lactide, conversions were typically in the range 71–86 % at 110 °C in 12 h, with poor control affording atactic polylactide (PLA), whilst for δ‐valerolactone more forcing conditions (12–24 h at 110 °C) were required for high conversion. Co‐polymerization of ε‐caprolactone with rac‐lactide afforded co‐polymers with appreciable lactide content (35–62.5 %); the reverse addition was ineffective, affording only (polycaprolactone) PCL.
Photocatalytic Oxidation of Sulfinates to Vinyl Sulfones with Cyanamide‐Functionalised Carbon Nitride
Authors: Meyer Andreas Uwe , Lau Vincent Wing‐hei , König Burkhard , Lotsch Bettina V.
Published: January 2017

The cyanamide‐functionalised carbon nitride (NCN‐CNx) can be employed as a photo‐redox catalyst for the light‐induced sulfonylation of alkenes with sulfinate salts, attaining product yields twice those obtained with the non‐functionalised counterpart and comparable to those achieved with the benchmark homogeneous photocatalyst Eosin Y. NCN‐CNx as a heterogeneous photocatalyst is easily isolatable and can be re‐used for this reaction for over three cycles. This photocatalytic reaction can proceed with various sulfinates (aryl‐, alkyl‐ and thiophene‐based) and alkenes with electron‐donating and ‐withdrawing groups, obtaining good to excellent product yields. A reductive quenching route was determined to be the likely mechanism for this photocatalyst.
Endocannabinoid activation of CB1 receptors contributes to long‐lasting reversal of neuropathic pain by repetitive spinal cord stimulation
Authors: Sun L. , Tai L. , Qiu Q. , Mitchell R. , Fleetwood‐Walker S. , Joosten E.A. , Cheung C.W.
Published: January 2017

Background

Spinal cord stimulation (SCS) has been shown to be effective in the management of certain neuropathic pain conditions, however, the underlying mechanisms are incompletely understood. In this study, we investigated repetitive SCS in a rodent neuropathic pain model, revealing long‐lasting and incremental attenuation of hyperalgesia and a mechanism of action involving endocannabinoids.

Method

Animals were implanted with monopolar electrodes at the time of partial sciatic nerve injury. Dorsal columns at spinal segments T12/13 were stimulated 3 days later (early SCS), and again at day 7 (late SCS) using low‐frequency parameters. Hypersensitivity to cutaneous mechanical stimuli was assessed using von Frey filaments. Pharmacological agents, selected to identify endocannabinoid and opioid involvement, were administered intraperitoneally, 10 min before SCS.

Results

Early SCS caused partial reversal of mechanical hypersensitivity with corresponding changes in the biomarker of central sensitization, [phospho‐Tyr1472]‐GluN2B. The partial reversal of hyperalgesia by early SCS was amplified by co‐administration of LY 2183240, an inhibitor of endocannabinoid reuptake/breakdown. This amplification was inhibited by a CB1R antagonist, AM251, but not by a CB2R antagonist, AM630. Early SCS‐induced reversal of hyperalgesia was attenuated by naloxone, indicating a role for opioids. Late SCS resulted in an incremental level of reversal of hyperalgesia, which was inhibited by AM251, but not by CB2 or opioid receptor antagonists.

Conclusion

The endocannabinoid system, and in particular the CB1R, plays a pivotal role in the long‐lasting and incremental reversal of hyperalgesia induced by repetitive SCS in a neuropathic pain model.

Significance

Alternative parameters for repetitive spinal cord stimulation (SCS) at 25/10 Hz elicit particularly long‐lasting and incremental reversal of hyperalgesia in a neuropathic pain model through a mechanism involving endocannabinoids.
Reduced laser‐evoked potential habituation detects abnormal central pain processing in painful radiculopathy patients
Authors: Hüllemann P. , von der Brelie C. , Manthey G. , Düsterhöft J. , Helmers A.K. , Synowitz M. , Baron R.
Published: January 2017

Background

Repetitive painful laser stimuli lead to physiological laser‐evoked potential (LEP) habituation, measurable by a decrement of the N2/P2 amplitude. The time course of LEP‐habituation is reduced in the capsaicin model for peripheral and central sensitization and in patients with migraine and fibromyalgia. In the present investigation, we aimed to assess the time course of LEP‐habituation in a neuropathic pain syndrome, i.e. painful radiculopathy.

Methods

At the side of radiating pain, four blocks of 25 painful laser stimuli each were applied to the ventral thigh at the L3 dermatome in 27 patients with painful radiculopathy. Inclusion criteria were (1) at least one neurological finding of radiculopathy, (2) low back pain with radiation into the foot and (3) a positive one‐sided compression of the L5 and/or S1 root in the MRI. The time course of LEP‐habituation was compared to 20 healthy height and age matched controls. Signs of peripheral (heat hyperalgesia) and central sensitization (dynamic mechanical allodynia and hyperalgesia) at the affected L5 or S1 dermatome were assessed with quantitative sensory testing.

Results

Painful radiculopathy patients showed decreased LEP‐habituation compared to controls. Patients with signs of central sensitization showed a more prominent LEP‐habituation decrease within the radiculopathy patient group.

Conclusions

Laser‐evoked potential habituation is reduced in painful radiculopathy patients, which indicates an abnormal central pain processing. Central sensitization seems to be a major contributor to abnormal LEP habituation. The LEP habituation paradigm might be useful as a clinical tool to assess central pain processing alterations in nociceptive and neuropathic pain conditions.

Significance

Abnormal central pain processing in neuropathic pain conditions may be revealed with the laser‐evoked potential habituation paradigm. In painful radiculopathy patients, LEP‐habituation is reduced compared to healthy controls.
Removal of methylene blue from aqueous system using tobacco stems biomass: Kinetics, mechanism and single‐stage adsorber design
Authors: Reddy D. Damodar , Ghosh Rakesh Kumar , Bindu J. Poorna , Mahadevaswamy M. , Murthy T.G.K.
Published: January 2017

This study investigated the technical feasibility of using the tobacco stems biomass (TSB), as a low‐cost novel adsorbent for removal of methylene blue (MB) from water. TSB was characterized by pH zero‐point‐charge (pHZPC) and FTIR analysis. Batch adsorption studies were performed to evaluate process variables, kinetics and equilibrium of MB adsorption. Results showed that MB removal was higher at pH values >pHZPC of adsorbent, and for particle size <0.5 mm. The adsorption kinetics followed pseudo‐second order (k2 = 0.008 to 0.001 g mg−1 min−1), with intraparticle diffusion as one of the rate limiting steps. The Langmuir isotherm with maximum capacity of 169.5 mg g−1 was statistically found a best fit model. A single stage batch adsorber was designed and quantity of TSB required for treating 1000‐10,000 L of stained water was determined. The results imply that the TSB with could be a promising alternative adsorbent for remediation of cationic dye bearing wastewater. © 2017 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 36: 1005–1012, 2017
The impact of ultrasound pretreatment on the enzymatic hydrolysis of cellulose from sugar beet shreds: Modeling of the experimental results
Authors: Ivetić Darjana Ž. , Omorjan Radovan P. , Đorđević Tatjana R. , Antov Mirjana G.
Published: January 2017

This article investigates the impact of ultrasound as pretreatment for enzymatic hydrolysis of cellulose from sugar beet shreds and uses modeling of the experimental results. Ultrasound pretreatment with different power input, duration, duty cycle, and solids load was applied to sugar beet shreds. Ultrasound under investigated conditions provided substrates with different characteristics. At applied conditions, ultrasound caused up to 28% material solubilization while cellulose recovery was approximately 90%. Pretreated substrates had multiple times higher values of water retention (WRV) than untreated one. Ultrasound pretreated sugar beet shreds were more susceptible to cellulases adsorption than the untreated ones having 1.4 to 15 times higher maximum adsorption capacity (σ). Statistical modeling of the results of enzymatic hydrolysis revealed that parameters with significant influence on the reducing sugars yield were interaction between σ and cellulose recovery, then σ and WRV as mutually independent parameters, as well as interaction between WRV and σ. The highest achieved yield of cellulose hydrolysis was 3.7 times higher than that obtained with untreated sugar beet shreds and it amounted approximately 780 mg/g cellulose. © 2017 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 36: 1164–1172, 2017
A rapid electrochemical monitoring platform for sensitive determination of thiamethoxam based on β–cyclodextrin-graphene composite
Authors: Zhai XingChen , Zhang Hua , Zhang Min , Yang Xin , Gu Cheng , Zhou GuoPeng , Zhao HaiTian , Wang ZhenYu , Dong AiJun , Wang Jing
Published: January 2017

A rapid monitoring platform for sensitive voltammetric detection of thiamethoxam residues is reported in the present study. A β–cyclodextrin-reduced graphene oxide composite was used as a reinforcing material in electrochemical determination of thiamethoxam. Compared with bare glassy carbon electrodes, the reduction peak currents of thiamethoxam at reduced graphene oxide/glassy carbon electrode and β–cyclodextrin-reduced graphene oxide/glassy carbon electrode were increased by 70- and 124-fold, respectively. The experimental conditions influencing voltammetric determination of thiamethoxam, such as the amount of β–cyclodextrin-reduced graphene oxide, solution pH, temperature, and accumulation time, were optimized. The reduction mechanism and binding affinity of this material is also discussed. Under optimal conditions, the reduction peak currents increased linearly between 0.5 µM and 16 µM concentration of thiamethoxam. The limit of detection was 0.27 µM on the basis of a signal-to-noise ratio of 3. When the proposed method was applied to brown rice in a recovery test, the recoveries were between 92.20% and 113.75%. The results were in good concordance with the high-performance liquid chromatography method. The proposed method therefore provides a promising and effective platform for sensitive and rapid determination of thiamethoxam. Environ Toxicol Chem 2017;36:1991–1997. © 2017 SETAC
On the Narrative Self
Authors: Axmacher Nikolai
Published: January 2017

The field of neuropsychoanalysis uses innovative techniques to find out how unconscious neuropsychic processes control the way we think, feel and act. Studies of autobiographical memory, internal conflict processing and identity formation reveal the possibilities of combining approaches from the humanities and natural sciences.
Atherectomy using a solid‐state laser at 355 nm wavelength
Authors: Herzog Amir , Oszkinis Grzegorz , Planer David , Ziaja Krzysztof , Kruszyna Łukasz , Stanisić Michał Goran , Ziaja Damian , Ishaaya Amiel A. , Kuczmik Wacław
Published: January 2017

Peripheral arterial disease (PAD), caused by atherosclerotic processes, is allied with an increased risk of ischemic events, limb loss, and death. Recently, the use of a solid‐state laser at 355 nm within a hybrid catheter was suggested for that purpose. In this work, short nanosecond pulses of a solid‐state laser at 355 nm delivered through a hybrid catheter, composed of optical fibers and a blunt mechanical blade, are used to conduct a pre‐clinical study and two clinical cases. The pre‐clinical study consisted of an atherosclerotic calcified cadaveric leg and a porcine in vivo trial within the iliac artery, respectively. The clinical cases include chronic total occlusions with a calcified lesion. The occluded cadaveric leg is recanalized successfully and no evidence of thermal necrosis is indicated in the histopathology analysis of the porcine study. No arterial wall damage is demonstrated on the animals' treated arteries and no significant impact on blood count and biochemistry analysis is noted in the animal trial. Successful recanalization of the occluded arteries followed by balloon angioplasty is obtained in both clinical cases. Our work constitutes a proof of concept for using a solid‐state pulsed laser at 355 nm in atherectomy.

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3D bioprinting and itsin vivoapplications
Authors: Hong Nhayoung , Yang Gi‐Hoon , Lee JaeHwan , Kim GeunHyung
Published: January 2017

The purpose of 3D bioprinting technology is to design and create functional 3D tissues or organsin situforin vivoapplications. 3D cell‐printing, or additive biomanufacturing, allows the selection of biomaterials and cells (bioink), and the fabrication of cell‐laden structures in high resolution. 3D cell‐printed structures have also been used for applications such as research models, drug delivery and discovery, and toxicology. Recently, numerous attempts have been made to fabricate tissues and organs by using various 3D printing techniques. However, challenges such as vascularization are yet to be solved. This article reviews the most commonly used 3D cell‐printing techniques with their advantages and drawbacks. Furthermore, up‐to‐date achievements of 3D bioprinting inin vivoapplications are introduced, and prospects for the future of 3D cell‐printing technology are discussed. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 106B: 444–459, 2018.
Ocular Effects of Sulfur Mustard and Therapeutic Approaches
Authors: Panahi Yunes , Rajaee Seyyed Mahdi , Sahebkar Amirhossein
Published: January 2017

Sulfur mustard (SM) is a strong blistering, highly reactive, lipophilic chemical war agent that causes injury in different organs including the skin, eyes, and respiratory tract. The Eyes are especially susceptible to the consequences of SM poisoning because of the aqueous and mucosal nature of conjunctiva and cornea. DNA alkylation and depletion of glutathione, are the most important mechanisms of SM action in the eye injuries. Acute clinical symptoms are including decrease in visual acuity, dryness, photophobia, blepharospasm, conjunctivitis, and complaints of foreign body sensation and soreness that gradually progress to severe ocular pain. Corneal abrasions, ulcerations, vesication, and perforations are common corneal consequences in SM injured victims. Appearance of chronic symptoms has been reported as chronic inflammation of the corneal and conjunctival vasculature, ischemia, lipid and cholesterol deposition, scarring in cornea, corneal thinning, opacification and perforation of the cornea, limbal stem cell deficiency (LSCD), and neovascularization. Different medical and surgical protocols have been documented in the management of SM‐induced ocular injuries, including preservative‐free artificial tears, topical steroids and antibiotic, mydriatic, antiglaucoma drops, therapeutic contact lenses, dark glasses and punctal plugs/cauterization, N‐acetylcysteine, tarsorrhaphy, amniotic membrane transplantation, stem cell transplantation, and corneal transplantation. New drugs such as resolvin E1, topical form of essential fatty acids, thymosin β4, 43 amino‐acid polypeptides, topical form of curcumin, newly formulated artificial tears, diquafosol, rebamipide, tretinoin, and oral uridineseems to be beneficial in the management of ocular lesion associated with sulfur mustard poisoning. Further studies are needed to approve these drugs in SM victims. J. Cell. Biochem. 118: 3549–3560, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Association of hematocrit with blood pressure and hypertension
Authors: Emamian Marzieh , Hasanian Seyed Mahdi , Tayefi Maryam , Bijari Moniba , Movahedian far Faeze , Shafiee Mojtaba , Avan Amir , Heidari‐Bakavoli Alireza , Moohebati Mohsen , Ebrahimi Mahmoud , Darroudi Sousan , Zamani Parvin , Azarpazhooh Mahmoud Reza , Nematy Mohsen , Safarian Mohammad , Ferns Gordon A. , Esmaeili Habibollah , Parizadeh Mohammad Reza , Ghayour‐Mobarhan Majid
Published: January 2017

Background

Hypertension (HTN) is a risk factor for stroke, renal failure, and cardiovascular disease. The association between biochemical and hematological parameters with high blood pressure may provide a more precise approach to risk prediction conferred by HTN in these patients.

Objective

The aim of current study was to explore whether biochemical and hematological parameters are associated with HTN in a cohort study with a 7‐year follow‐up.

Materials and Methods

A total of 9808 individuals were enrolled and recruited as part of the Mashhad Stroke and Heart Atherosclerotic Disorders (MASHAD) cohort study, and biochemical and hematological factors were measured in all subjects. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis were performed to determine the association of biochemical and hematological parameters with HTN.

Results

Several biochemical parameters including fasting plasma glucose (FBG), serum high‐sensitivity C‐reactive protein (hs‐CRP), triglyceride (TG), total cholesterol (TC), low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL‐C), and uric acid were increased in hypertensive participants. In contrast, serum high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL‐C) was lower in hypertensive individuals. Furthermore, we demonstrated that hematological parameters including white blood cell (WBC) count, red blood cell (RBC) count, hemoglobin (HGB), hematocrit (HCT), and mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH) were higher in the hypertensive group compared to the control group. But mean corpuscular volume (MCV), and red cell distribution width (RDW), were decreased in the hypertensive group. Furthermore, our results strongly suggested that among these parameters, hematocrit was the independent risk factor for hypertension in the population.

Conclusion

We demonstrated the association of altered biochemical and hematological factors with hypertension supporting the value of emerging markers for early prediction of high blood pressure in prone individuals.
In Praise of Followership Style Assessments
Authors: Chaleff Ira
Published: January 2017

Even as leadership books outnumber followership books by a large factor, the social sciences and training fields have created large numbers of assessments related to leadership while leaving a near desert of followership assessments. I argue the case that followership assessments are foundational for followership development—that descriptive language for differentiated styles is needed to understand one's own followership style and the potential paths for performance improvement. The assessment I use consists of four styles: partner, implementer, resource, and individualist. I review the ways this assessment has been integrated into followership developmental initiatives to activate the potential for assessments to stimulate growth. The paper closes with an overview of additional research and developmental instruments that will be needed as the field of followership matures.
Assessment of intracranial meningioma‐associated calcifications using susceptibility‐weighted MRI
Authors: Adams Lisa C. , Böker Sarah M. , Bender Yvonne Y. , Fallenberg Eva M. , Wagner Moritz , Buchert Ralph , Hamm Bernd , Makowski Marcus R.
Published: January 2017

Purpose

To determine the diagnostic accuracy of susceptibility‐weighted MRI (SW‐MRI) for the detection of intracranial meningioma‐associated calcifications compared with standard MR sequences, using computed tomography (CT) as a reference standard.

Materials and Methods

354 patients, who had received both a CT and a 1.5 Tesla clinical brain MRI with SW‐MRI sequences between January 2014 and July 2016, were retrospectively evaluated and 316 patients were included. Calcification diameter was used to assess correlation between imaging modalities. Sensitivity and specificity as well as intra‐ and interobserver agreement were calculated for SW‐MRI and standard MRI sequences when compared with reference standard CT.

Results

Fifty patients had positive findings for intracranial meningioma‐associated calcifications on CT scans. SW‐MRI reached a sensitivity of 94% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 83–99%) and a specificity of 95% (95% CI: 92–98%) for the detection of meningioma‐associated calcifications, while standard MRI yielded a sensitivity of 64% (95% CI: 49–77%) and a specificity of 94% (95% CI: 90–96%). Diameter measurements between SW‐MRI and CT showed a close correlation (R2 = 0.99; P < 0.001) with a slight overestimation of size, which, however, did not reach significance level (SW‐MRI: 8.2 mm ± 7.1; CT: 6.8 mm ± 6.4; P = 0.29). Compared with standard MRI, SW‐MRI showed a better interobserver agreement for size measurements of calcifications.

Conclusion

SW‐MRI enables a reliable detection of intracranial meningioma‐associated calcifications by using CT as a reference and offers a higher diagnostic accuracy than standard MRI.

Level of Evidence: 3

Technical Efficacy: Stage 2

J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2017;46:1177–1186.
Preoperative MRI of the breast and ipsilateral breast tumor recurrence: Long‐term follow up
Authors: Gervais Mai‐Kim , Maki Ellen , Schiller Dan E. , Crystal Pavel , McCready David R.
Published: January 2017

BACKGROUND: Local recurrence after breast conserving surgery is reported in 5‐10% of cases. This study aims to determine if preoperative MRI is associated with reduced IBTR rates in the longer term and evaluate IBTR rates of a high risk (TN and Her‐2 positive) subgroup in those receiving MRI or not.

METHODS: Between 1999 and 2005, patients with invasive breast cancer undergoing BCS and radiation were identified. Primary endpoint was IBTR rate.

RESULTS: The cohort consisted of 470 cases: 27% underwent MRI and 73% did not. Median follow‐up was 97 months. Overall 10‐year IBTR rate was 3.6%. There was no significant difference in IBTR rate at 10 years between those receiving MRI or not (1.6% vs. 4.2% (P = 0.37). The TN and Her‐2 positive combined subgroup had a higher IBTR rate than all others (9.8% vs. 1.7%, P = 0.001). In the group without MRI, the IBTR rate of the high risk group was 11.8% compared to 1.8% in the remainder (P = 0.002).

CONCLUSION: With 10‐year follow‐up, there was no significant difference in IBTR rate whether preoperative MRI is performed versus not. The high risk population showed an increased IBTR rate, this was more marked in those who did not receive MRI.
Does radiologic response correlate to pathologic response in patients undergoing neoadjuvant therapy for borderline resectable pancreatic malignancy?
Authors: Xia Brent T. , Fu Baojin , Wang Jiang , Kim Young , Ahmad S. Ameen , Dhar Vikrom K. , Levinsky Nick C. , Hanseman Dennis J. , Habib David A. , Wilson Gregory C. , Smith Milton , Olowokure Olugbenga O. , Kharofa Jordan , Al Humaidi Ali H. , Choe Kyuran A. , Abbott Daniel E. , Ahmad Syed A.
Published: January 2017

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

In patients with borderline resectable pancreas cancers, clinicians frequently consider radiographic response as the primary driver of whether patients should be offered surgical intervention following neoadjuvant therapy (NT). We sought to determine any correlation between radiographic and pathologic response rates following NT.

METHODS

Between 2005 and 2015, 38 patients at a tertiary care referral center underwent NT followed by pancreaticoduodenectomy for borderline resectable pancreas cancer. Radiographic response after the completion of NT and pathologic response after surgery were graded according to RECIST and Evans’ criteria, respectively.

RESULTS

Preoperatively, 50% of patients underwent chemotherapy alone and 50% underwent chemotherapy and chemoradiation. Radiographically, one patient demonstrated a complete radiologic response, 68.4% (n = 26) of patients had stable disease (SD), 26.3% (n = 10) demonstrated a partial response, and one patient had progressive. Among patients without radiographic response, 77.7% (n = 21) achieved a R0 resection. Of patients with SD on imaging, 26.9% (n = 7) had Evans grade IIB or greater pathologic response.

CONCLUSIONS

Our data indicate that approximately one‐fourth of patients who did not have a radiologic response had a grade IIB or greater pathologic response. In the absence of metastatic progression, lack of radiographic down‐staging following NT should not preclude surgery.