bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Towards Nanomaterials for Cancer Theranostics: A System of DNA-Modified Magnetic Nanoparticles for Detection and Suppression of RNA Marker in Cancer Cells
Authors: Bakshi Saira , Zakharchenko Andrey , Minko Sergiy , Kolpashchikov Dmitry M. , Katz Evgeny
Published: April 2019

Theranostics of cancer using smart biocompatible materials can enable early cancer diagnostics and treatment. Here, we report on a DNA-nanoparticle functional material, which can simultaneously report the presence of an mRNA cancer biomarker and trigger its degradation in cultured cells. The nanodevice consists of two species of magnetic beads, each of which is conjugated with different components of a multicomponent deoxyribozyme (DZ) sensor. The system is activated only under two conditions: (i) in the presence of a specific target mRNA and (ii) when a magnetic field is applied. We demonstrate that delivery of such a system is markedly enhanced by the application of a magnetic field. The system not only fluorescently detects target mRNA in cultured MCF-7 cancer cells, but also induces its downregulation. Thus, the two-component magnetic nanoparticle system has characteristics of a material that can be used for cancer theranostics.
Generalized Steffensen’s Inequality by Fink’s Identity
Authors: Fahad Asfand , Butt Saad Ihsan , Pečarić Josip
Published: April 2019

By using Fink’s Identity, Green functions, and Montgomery identities we prove some identities related to Steffensen’s inequality. Under the assumptions of n-convexity and n-concavity, we give new generalizations of Steffensen’s inequality and its reverse. Generalizations of some inequalities (and their reverse), which are related to Hardy-type inequality. New bounds of Gr u ¨ ss and Ostrowski-type inequalities have been proved. Moreover, we formulate generalized Steffensen’s-type linear functionals and prove their monotonicity for the generalized class of ( n + 1 ) -convex functions at a point. At the end, we present some applications of our study to the theory of exponentially convex functions.
Topology Structure Implied in β-Hilbert Space, Heisenberg Uncertainty Quantum Characteristics and Numerical Simulation of the DE Algorithm
Authors: Wang Kaiguang , Gao Yuelin
Published: April 2019

The differential evolutionary ( D E ) algorithm is a global optimization algorithm. To explore the convergence implied in the H i l b e r t space with the parameter β of the D E algorithm and the quantum properties of the optimal point in the space, we establish a control convergent iterative form of a higher-order differential equation under the conditions of P − ε and analyze the control convergent properties of its iterative sequence; analyze the three topological structures implied in H i l b e r t space of the single-point topological structure, branch topological structure, and discrete topological structure; and establish and analyze the association between the H e i s e n b e r g uncertainty quantum characteristics depending on quantum physics and its topological structure implied in the β -Hilbert space of the D E algorithm as follows: The speed resolution Δ v 2 of the iterative sequence convergent speed and the position resolution Δ x β ε of the global optimal point with the swinging range are a pair of conjugate variables of the quantum states in β -Hilbert space about eigenvalues λ i ∈ R , corresponding to the uncertainty characteristics on quantum states, and they cannot simultaneously achieve bidirectional efficiency between convergent speed and the best point precision with any procedural improvements. Where λ i ∈ R is a constant in the β -Hilbert space. Finally, the conclusion is verified by the quantum numerical simulation of high-dimensional data. We get the following important quantitative conclusions by numerical simulation: except for several dead points and invalid points, under the condition of spatial dimension, the number of the population, mutated operator, crossover operator, and selected operator are generally decreasing or increasing with a variance deviation rate + 0.50 and the error of less than ± 0.5 ; correspondingly, speed changing rate of the individual iterative points and position changing rate of global optimal point β exhibit a inverse correlation in β -Hilbert space in the statistical perspectives, which illustrates the association between the H e i s e n b e r g uncertainty quantum characteristics and its topological structure implied in the β -Hilbert space of the D E algorithm.
Fucoidan-Stabilized Gold Nanoparticle-Mediated Biofilm Inhibition, Attenuation of Virulence and Motility Properties in Pseudomonas aeruginosa PAO1
Authors: Khan Fazlurrahman , Manivasagan Panchanathan , Lee Jang-Won , Pham Dung Thuy Nguyen , Oh Junghwan , Kim Young-Mog
Published: April 2019

The emergence of antibiotic resistance in Pseudomonas aeruginosa due to biofilm formation has transformed this opportunistic pathogen into a life-threatening one. Biosynthesized nanoparticles are increasingly being recognized as an effective anti-biofilm strategy to counter P. aeruginosa biofilms. In the present study, gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) were biologically synthesized and stabilized using fucoidan, which is an active compound sourced from brown seaweed. Biosynthesized fucoidan-stabilized AuNPs (F-AuNPs) were subjected to characterization using UV-visible spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), field emission transmission electron microscopy (FE-TEM), dynamic light scattering (DLS), and energy dispersive X-ray diffraction (EDX). The biosynthesized F-AuNPs were then evaluated for their inhibitory effects on P. aeruginosa bacterial growth, biofilm formation, virulence factor production, and bacterial motility. Overall, the activities of F-AuNPs towards P. aeruginosa were varied depending on their concentration. At minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) (512 µg/mL) and at concentrations above MIC, F-AuNPs exerted antibacterial activity. In contrast, the sub-inhibitory concentration (sub-MIC) levels of F-AuNPs inhibited biofilm formation without affecting bacterial growth, and eradicated matured biofilm. The minimum biofilm inhibition concentration (MBIC) and minimum biofilm eradication concentration (MBEC) were identified as 128 µg/mL. Furthermore, sub-MICs of F-AuNPs also attenuated the production of several important virulence factors and impaired bacterial swarming, swimming, and twitching motilities. Findings from the present study provide important insights into the potential of F-AuNPs as an effective new drug for controlling P. aeruginosa-biofilm-related infections.
Sargassum muticum and Osmundea pinnatifida Enzymatic Extracts: Chemical, Structural, and Cytotoxic Characterization
Authors: Rodrigues Dina , Costa-Pinto Ana R. , Sousa Sérgio , Vasconcelos Marta W. , Pintado Manuela M. , Pereira Leonel , Rocha-Santos Teresa A.P. , Costa João P. da , Silva Artur M.S. , Duarte Armando C. , Gomes Ana M.P. , Freitas Ana C.
Published: April 2019

Seaweeds, which have been widely used for human consumption, are considered a potential source of biological compounds, where enzyme-assisted extraction can be an efficient method to obtain multifunctional extracts. Chemical characterization of Sargassum muticum and Osmundea pinnatifida extracts obtained by Alcalase and Viscozyme assisted extraction, respectively, showed an increment of macro/micro elements in comparison to the corresponding dry seaweeds, while the ratio of Na/K decreased in both extracts. Galactose, mannose, xylose, fucose, and glucuronic acid were the main monosaccharides (3.2–27.3 mg/glyophilized extract) present in variable molar ratios, whereas low free amino acids content and diversity (1.4–2.7 g/100 gprotein) characterized both extracts. FTIR-ATR and 1H NMR spectra confirmed the presence of important polysaccharide structures in the extracts, namely fucoidans from S. muticum or agarans as sulfated polysaccharides from O. pinnatifida. No cytotoxicity against normal mammalian cells was observed from 0 to 4 mglyophilized extract/mL for both extracts. The comprehensive characterization of the composition and safety of these two extracts fulfils an important step towards their authorized application for nutritional and/or nutraceutical purposes.
Marine Bacterium Vibrio sp. CB1-14 Produces Guanidine Alkaloid 6-epi-Monanchorin, Previously Isolated from Marine Polychaete and Sponges
Authors: Makarieva Tatyana , Shubina Larisa , Kurilenko Valeria , Isaeva Marina , Chernysheva Nadezhda , Popov Roman , Bystritskaya Evgeniya , Dmitrenok Pavel , Stonik Valentin
Published: April 2019

Twenty-three bacterial strains were isolated from the secreted mucus trapping net of the marine polychaete Chaetopterus variopedatus (phylum Annelida) and twenty strains were identified using 16S rRNA gene analysis. Strain CB1-14 was recognized as a new species of the genus Vibrio using the eight-gene multilocus sequence analysis (MLSA) and genome sequences of nineteen type Vibrio strains. This Vibrio sp. was cultured, and 6-epi-monanchorin (2), previously isolated from the polychaete and two sponge species, was found in the cells and culture broth. The presence of the 6-epi-monanchorin was confirmed by its isolation followed by 1H NMR and HRESIMS analysis. These results showed the microbial origin of the bicyclic guanidine alkaloid 2 in C. variopedatus.
Prevalence, Discontinuation Rate, and Risk Factors for Severe Local Site Reactions with Topical Field Treatment Options for Actinic Keratosis of the Face and Scalp
Authors: Balcere Alise , Rone Kupfere Māra , Čēma Ingrīda , Krūmiņa Angelika
Published: April 2019

Actinic keratoses (AKs) are common lesions on chronically sun damaged skin, which are morphologically characterized by lower third to full thickness atypia of epidermal keratinocytes. These lesions carry a risk of progression towards invasive squamous cell carcinoma (SCC); therefore, treatment of visible lesions and the field in case of field cancerization is recommended. Treatment of AK includes the destruction of atypical keratinocytes that clinically presents with various degrees of erythema, scaling, crusting, erosion, and other visible and subjective symptoms. Such inflammatory reactions may have an impact on the patient’s social life and have shown to decrease compliance and adherence to therapy. Additionally, as various topical treatments have been proven to be effective in treating AK, tolerability of local site reactions (LSRs) might drive the decision for appropriate treatment in an individual scenario. Therefore, we aimed to review prevalence of severe LSRs among various topical treatments for AK. In addition, we summarized discontinuation rates due to LSRs and possible therapy-unrelated risk factors for the development of LSRs with increased severity.
Simple Theoretical Results on Reversible Fouling in Cross-Flow Membrane Filtration
Authors: Haldenwang Pierre , Bernales Braulio , Guichardon Pierrette , Ibaseta Nelson
Published: April 2019

In cross-flow membrane filtration, fouling results from material deposit which clogs the membrane inner surface. This hinders filtration, which experiences the so-called limiting flux. Among the models proposed by the literature, we retain a simple one: a steady-state reversible fouling is modelled with the use of a single additional parameter, i.e., N d , the ratio of the critical concentration for deposition to the feed concentration at inlet. To focus on fouling, viscous pressure drop and osmotic (counter-)pressure have been chosen low. It results in a minimal model of fouling. Solved thoroughly with the numerical means appropriate to enforce the nonlinear coupling between permeation and concentration polarization, the model delivers novel information. It first shows that permeation is utterly governed by solute transfer, the relevant non-dimensional quantities being hence limited to N d and P e i n , the transverse Péclet number. Furthermore, when the role played by N d and moderate P e i n (say P e i n < 40 ) is investigated, all results can be interpreted with the use of a single non-dimensional parameter, F l , the so-called fouling number, which simply reads F l ≡ P e i n N d − 1 . Now rendered possible, the overall fit of the numerical data allows us to put forward analytical final expressions, which involve all the physical parameters and allow us to retrieve the experimental trends.
Biomineralization of Platinum by Escherichia coli
Authors: Shar Sahar S , Reith Frank , Shahsavari Esmaeil , Adetutu Eric M , Nurulita Yuana , Al-hothaly Khalid , Haleyur Nagalakshmi , Ball Andrew S.
Published: April 2019

The widespread use of platinum in many industrial applications has led to its release into the environment at elevated concentrations with potential adverse effects on human and environmental health. However, the nature of interactions between mobile platinum complexes and the biotic components of the environment, which are increasingly being exposed to platinum, is poorly studied. The aim of this study was to assess the impact of Pt(IV)-chloride on the growth and activity of the well-characterized bacteria Escherichia coli. Bacterial survival and viability in the presence of different concentrations of Pt(IV)-chloride were assessed in liquid culture, while platinum retention was assessed using experimentation with sand-filled columns with the residual platinum concentration measured by atomic absorption spectroscopy. Bacterial biomineralization of platinum was studied with scanning electron microscopy. The results showed that E. coli tolerated PtCl4 at concentrations of up to 10,000 µM over 21 days and remained viable after 112 days of incubation with PtCl4 at 10,000 µM in sand columns. Overall, 74 wt.% and 50 wt.% of platinum was mineralized in E. coli and blank sand columns, respectively. The results of this study confirm that E. coli is capable of biomineralizing platinum. The results confirm that the interaction of platinum with bacteria is not limited to known metal-resistant bacterial species.
Resistance Spot Welding of Aluminum Alloy and Carbon Steel with Spooling Process Tapes
Authors: Shin Seungmin , Park Dae-Jin , Yu Jiyoung , Rhee Sehun
Published: April 2019

Many lightweight materials, including aluminum alloy, magnesium alloy, and plastic, have been used for automotives. Aluminum alloy—the most commonly utilized lightweight metal—has poor resistance spot weldability owing to its inherent properties, which demand the development of welding solutions. Various welding techniques are utilized to improve the resistance spot weldability of aluminum alloy, including DeltaSpot welding. However, the technological development for welding dissimilar metals (aluminum alloy and steel) required for vehicle body assembly is still in its nascent stages. This study proposes DeltaSpot welding (a resistance spot welding process with spooling process tapes) using the alloy combination of 6000 series aluminum alloy (Al 6K32) and 440 MPa grade steel (SGARC 440). The welding characteristics of the main process parameters in DeltaSpot welding were analyzed and the weldability of the combination of the aluminum alloy, Al 6K32, and 440 MPa grade steel was evaluated. In addition, the characteristics of the intermetallic compound layer between the 440 MPa grade steel and Al 6K32 sheets were identified via scanning electron microscopy/energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM-EDS).
Genomic Analyses of Bifidobacterium moukalabense Reveal Adaptations to Frugivore/Folivore Feeding Behavior
Authors: Segawa Takahiro , Fukuchi Satoshi , Bodington Dylan , Tsuchida Sayaka , Mbehang Nguema Pierre , Mori Hiroshi , Ushida Kazunari
Published: April 2019

Despite the essential role of Bifidobacterium in health-promoting gut bacteria in humans, little is known about their functions in wild animals, especially non-human primates. It is difficult to determine in vivo the function of Bifidobacterium in wild animals due to the limited accessibility of studying target animals in natural conditions. However, the genomic characteristics of Bifidobacterium obtained from the feces of wild animals can provide insight into their functionality in the gut. Here, we analyzed the whole genomes of 12 B. moukalabense strains isolated from seven feces samples of wild western lowland gorillas (Gorilla gorilla gorilla), three samples of wild central chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes troglodytes) and two samples of wild forest elephants (Loxodonta cyclotis) in Moukalaba-Doudou National Park, Gabon. In addition, we analyzed the fecal bacterial communities of six wild western lowland gorillas by meta 16S rRNA gene analyses with next generation sequencing. Although the abundance of the genus Bifidobacterium was as low as 0.2% in the total reads, a whole genome analysis of B. moukalabense suggested its contribution digestion of food and nutrition of frugivore/folivore animals. Specifically, the whole genome analysis indicated the involvement of B. moukalabense in hemicellulose degradation for short chain fatty acid production and nucleic acid utilization as nitrogen resources. In comparison with human-associated Bifidobacterium spp., genes for carbohydrate transport and metabolism are not conserved in these wild species. In particular the glycosidases, which are found in all 12 strains of B. moukalabense, were variably detected, or not detected, in human-associated species.
Geostatistical Determination of Ore Shoot Plunge and Structural Control of the Sizhuang World-Class Epizonal Orogenic Gold Deposit, Jiaodong Peninsula, China
Authors: Wang Si-Rui , Yang Li-Qiang , Wang Jian-Gang , Wang En-Jing , Xu Yong-Lin
Published: April 2019

The Jiaodong Peninsula in eastern China is the third largest gold-mining area and one of the most important orogenic gold provinces in the world. Ore shoots plunging in specific orientations are a ubiquitous feature of the Jiaodong lode deposits. The Sizhuang gold deposit, located in northwestern Jiaodong, is characterized by orebodies of different occurrences. The orientation of ore shoots has remained unresolved for a long time. In this paper, geostatistical tools were used to determine the plunge and structural control of ore shoots in the Sizhuang deposit. The ellipses determined by variogram modeling reveal the anisotropy of mineralization, plus the shape, size, and orientation of individual ore shoots. The long axes of the anisotropy ellipses trend NE or SEE and plunge 48° NE down the dip. However, individual ore shoots plunge almost perpendicular to the plunge of the ore deposit as a whole. This geometry is interpreted to have resulted from two periods of fluid flow parallel to two sets of striations that we identified on ore-controlling faults. Thrust-related lineations with a sinistral strike-slip component were associated with early-stage mineralization. This was overprinted by dextral and normal movement of the ore-controlling fault that controlled the late-stage mineralization. This kinematic switch caused a change in the upflow direction of ore-forming fluid, which in turn controlled the orientation of the large-scale orebodies and the subvertical plunge of individual ore shoots. Thus, a regional transition from NW-to-SE-trending compression to NW-to-SE-trending extension is interpreted as the geodynamic background of the ore-forming process. This research exemplifies an effective exploration strategy for studying the structural control of the geometry, orientation, and grade distribution of orebodies via the integration of geostatistical tools and structural analysis.
A Sample Preparation Technique Using Biocompatible Composites for Biomedical Applications
Authors: Liu Huifang , Noh Geun Su , Luan Yange , Qiao Zhen , Koo Bonhan , Jang Yoon Ok , Shin Yong
Published: April 2019

Infectious diseases, especially pathogenic infections, are a growing threat to public health worldwide. Since pathogenic bacteria usually exist in complex matrices at very low concentrations, the development of technology for rapid, convenient, and biocompatible sample enrichment is essential for sensitive diagnostics. In this study, a cucurbit[6]uril (CB) supermolecular decorated amine-functionalized diatom (DA) composite was fabricated to support efficient sample enrichment and in situ nucleic acid preparation from enriched pathogens and cells. CB was introduced to enhance the rate and effectiveness of pathogen absorption using the CB–DA composite. This novel CB–DA composite achieved a capture efficiency of approximately 90% at an Escherichia coli concentration of 106 CFU/mL within 3 min. Real-time PCR analyses of DNA samples recovered using the CB–DA enrichment system showed a four-fold increase in the early amplification signal strength, and this effective method for capturing nucleic acid might be useful for preparing samples for diagnostic systems.
Non-Destructive Determination of Alkylresorcinol (ARs) Content on Wheat Seed Surfaces and Prediction of ARs Content in Whole-Grain Flour
Authors: Wang Jiahuan , Gao Xin , Wang Zhonghua
Published: April 2019

Alkylresorcinols (ARs) are beneficial for human health and can be used as biomarkers for whole-grain cereal intake. In previous studies, ARs content in whole-grain flour was determined by milling the seeds into powder, thus destroying their structure. In this paper, we adopted a non-destructive extraction approach. Chloroform and ethyl acetate extraction methods were carried out to extract lipids from the seed surface and whole-grain flour of 36 wheat varieties in China, respectively. GC-MS analysis identified chemical compounds in which ARs were the major compounds for all the samples. The average total content of ARs (624.223 µg/g) in whole grains was much higher than that on seed surfaces (4.934 µg/g), with a positive correlation (r = 0.863, p < 0.001) between these two parameters. The results suggested that the total ARs content on the seed surface can be used to predict their content in whole-grain flour. Without affecting the seed germination rate and damaging seed structure, we demonstrate that a non-destructive extraction approach is an appropriate and useful method, facilitating the development of rapid screening methods suitable for use in wheat breeding.
Tango vs. HoloLens: A Comparison of Collaborative Indoor AR Visualisations Using Hand-Held and Hands-Free Devices
Authors: Riedlinger Urs , Oppermann Leif , Prinz Wolfgang
Published: April 2019

In this article, we compare a Google Tango tablet with the Microsoft HoloLens smartglasses in the context of the visualisation and interaction with Building Information Modeling data. A user test was conducted where 16 participants solved four tasks, two for each device, in small teams of two. Two aspects are analysed in the user test: the visualisation of interior designs and the visualisation of Building Information Modeling data. The results show that the Tango tablet is surprisingly preferred by most users when it comes to collaboration and discussion in our scenario. While the HoloLens offers hands-free operation and a stable tracking, users mentioned that the interaction with the Tango tablet felt more natural. In addition, users reported that it was easier to get an overall impression with the Tango tablet rather than with the HoloLens smartglasses.
Facile Preparation and Characterization of Carbon Fibers with Core-Shell Structure from Graphene-Dispersed Isotropic Pitch Compounds
Authors: Lee Dong Hun , Choi Yong-Hwan , Rhee Kyong Yop , Yang Kap Seung , Kim Byung-Joo
Published: April 2019

In this study, isotropic pitch-based carbon fibers were prepared from a mixture of petroleum residue and graphene nanoplatelets with different contents. The softening point and synthetic yield of synthesized isotropic pitches were analyzed and compared to characterize the nature of the pitches. The surface and thermal characteristics of the fibers were observed using scanning electron microscopy and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), respectively. From the results, it was observed that the prepared carbon fibers had an interesting core-shell structure. In the TGA analysis with air, the carbon fiber having 0.1 wt.% of graphene showed a higher residue yield than that of the sample having 1.0 wt.% of graphene. This result can be explained due to the graphene being placed on the surface region of the carbon fibers and directly helping to increase the surface area of the carbon fibers, resulting in rapid oxidation due to the enhanced contact area with oxygen.
A Facile One-Step Synthesis of Cuprous Oxide/Silver Nanocomposites as Efficient Electrode-Modifying Materials for Nonenzyme Hydrogen Peroxide Sensor
Authors: Yang Kaixiang , Yan Zhengguang , Ma Lin , Du Yiping , Peng Bo , Feng Jicun
Published: April 2019

Cuprous oxide/silver (Cu2O/Ag) nanocomposites were prepared via a facile one-step method and used to construct an electrochemical sensor for hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) detection. In this method, AgNO3 and Cu(NO3)2 were reduced to Cu2O/Ag nanocomposites by glucose in the presence of hexadecyl trimethyl ammonium bromide (CTAB) at a low temperature. The optimum condition was the molar ratio of silver nitrate and copper nitrate of 1:10, the temperature of 50 °C. Under this condition, Cu2O/Ag nanocomposites were obtained with uniformly distributed and tightly combined Cu2O and Ag nanoparticles. The size of Cu2O particles was less than 100 nm and that of Ag particles was less than 20 nm. Electrochemical experiments indicate that the Cu2O/Ag nanocomposites-based sensor possesses an excellent performance toward H2O2, showing a linear range of 0.2 to 4000 μM, a high sensitivity of 87.0 μA mM−1 cm−2, and a low detection limit of 0.2 μM. The anti-interference capability experiments indicate this sensor has good selectivity toward H2O2. Additionally, the H2O2 recovery tests of the sensor in diluted milk solution signify its potential application in routine H2O2 analysis.
Research on Creeping Flashover Characteristics of Nanofluid-Impregnated Pressboard Modified Based on Fe3O4 Nanoparticles under Lightning Impulse Voltages
Authors: Shan Bingliang , Huang Meng , Ying Yupeng , Niu Mingkang , Sun Qian , Lv Yuzhen , Li Chengrong , Qi Bo , Xing Zhaoliang
Published: April 2019

Creeping flashover of mineral-oil-impregnated pressboard under impulse stress is a common insulating failure in oil-immersed transformers, arousing increasing attention. Recent studies have shown that the breakdown strength of transformer oil under positive lightning impulse voltage can be significantly improved through nanoparticles-based modification, and Fe3O4 has shown the best improvement in breakdown strength compared to other nanoparticles that have been used. This paper presents the creeping flashover characteristics of pure oil-impregnated pressboard (OIP) and nanofluid-impregnated pressboard (NIP) based on Fe3O4 nanoparticles under positive and negative lightning impulse voltages, respectively. It was found that NIP possessed higher resistance to creeping flashover than OIP. The relative permittivities of oil and oil-impregnated pressboard before and after nanoparticles-based modification were measured, and the results revealed that the addition of nanoparticles led to a better match in relative permittivity between oil and oil-impregnated pressboard, and a more uniform electric field distribution. Furthermore, the shallow trap density in NIP was obviously increased compared to that of OIP through the thermally stimulated depolarization current (TSDC), which promoted the dissipation of surface charges and weakened the distortion of the electric field. Therefore, the creeping flashover characteristics of oil-impregnated pressboard were greatly improved with Fe3O4 nanoparticles.
Electrospun Gelatin Fibers Surface Loaded ZnO Particles as a Potential Biodegradable Antibacterial Wound Dressing
Authors: Chen Yu , Lu Weipeng , Guo Yanchuan , Zhu Yi , Song Yeping
Published: April 2019

Traditional wound dressings require frequent replacement, are prone to bacterial growth and cause a lot of environmental pollution. Therefore, biodegradable and antibacterial dressings are eagerly desired. In this paper, gelatin/ZnO fibers were first prepared by side-by-side electrospinning for potential wound dressing materials. The morphology, composition, cytotoxicity and antibacterial activity were characterized by using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffractometry (XRD), particle size analyzer (DLS), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), thermogravimetry (TGA) and Incucyte™ Zoom system. The results show that ZnO particles are uniformly dispersed on the surface of gelatin fibers and have no cytotoxicity. In addition, the gelatin/ZnO fibers exhibit excellent antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) and Escherichia coli (E. coli) with a significant reduction of bacteria to more than 90%. Therefore, such a biodegradable, nontoxic and antibacterial fiber has excellent application prospects in wound dressing.
The Effects of Precursor C2H2 Fraction on Microstructure and Properties of Amorphous Carbon Composite Films Containing Si and Ag Prepared by Magnetron Sputtering Deposition
Authors: Liu Xiaoqiang , Hao Junying , Lv Yongjun , Cui Xuejun
Published: April 2019

Hydrogenated graphite-like carbon composite films containing silicon (Si) and silver (Ag) (g-C:H:Si:Ag) were prepared by middle frequency magnetron sputtering deposition in argon (Ar) and acetylene (C2H2) mixture gases. The effects of precursor C2H2 fraction on the microstructure and properties were studied. The results of Raman and X-ray photoelectron spectroscope (XPS) revealed that the films were dominated by sp2 carbon sites. It was observed from transmission electron microscope (TEM) that the films contained nanoparticles mainly consisting of Ag, and their size increased with the decrease in the C2H2 fraction. Si was also found to aggregate in the areas where Ag nanoparticles formed in films with high Si content. The comparative studies on the frictional behaviors of films sliding against aluminum oxide were carried out in ambient air and saline solution. The g-C:H:Si:Ag films still exhibited outstanding frictional properties even when the test environment shifts from ambient air to saline solution.
Impact of pH on Regulating Ion Encapsulation of Graphene Oxide Nanoscroll for Pressure Sensing
Authors: Zhao Weihao , Wang Lin , Pei Chengjie , Wei Cong , You Hui , Zhang Jindong , Li Hai
Published: April 2019

Recently, graphene oxide nanoscroll (GONS) has attracted much attention due to its excellent properties. Encapsulation of nanomaterials in GONS can greatly enhance its performance while ion encapsulation is still unexplored. Herein, various ions including hydronium ion (H3O+), Fe3+, Au3+, and Zn2+ were encapsulated in GONSs by molecular combing acidic graphene oxide (GO) solution. No GONS was obtained when the pH of the GO solution was greater than 9. A few GONSs without encapsulated ion were obtained at the pH of 5–8. When the pH decreased from 5 to 0.15, high-density GONSs with encapsulated ions were formed and the average height of GONS was increased from ~50 to ~190 nm. These results could be attributed to the varied repulsion between carboxylic acid groups located at the edges of GO nanosheets. Encapsulated metal ions were converted to nanoparticles in GONS after high-temperature annealing. The resistance-type device based on reduced GONS (rGONS) mesh with encapsulated H3O+ showed good response for applied pressure from 600 to 8700 Pa, which manifested much better performance compared with that of a device based on rGONS mesh without H3O+.
Large Scale Synthesis of Nanopyramidal-Like VO2 Films by an Oxygen-Assisted Etching Growth Method with Significantly Enhanced Field Emission Properties
Authors: Zhang Zongtao , Feng Yifei , Gao Yanfeng , Chen Deliang , Shao Guosheng
Published: April 2019

The present investigation reported on a novel oxygen-assisted etching growth method that can directly transform wafer-scale plain VO2 thin films into pyramidal-like VO2 nanostructures with highly improved field-emission properties. The oxygen applied during annealing played a key role in the formation of the special pyramidal-like structures by introducing thin oxygen-rich transition layers on the top surfaces of the VO2 crystals. An etching related growth and transformation mechanism for the synthesis of nanopyramidal films was proposed. Structural characterizations confirmed the formation of a composite VO2 structure of monoclinic M1 (P21/c) and Mott insulating M2 (C2/m) phases for the films at room temperature. Moreover, by varying the oxygen concentration, the nanocrystal morphology of the VO2 films could be tuned, ranging over pyramidal, dot, and/or twin structures. These nanopyramidal VO2 films showed potential benefits for application such as temperature−regulated field emission devices. For one typical sample deposited on a 3-inch silicon substrate, its emission current (measured at 6 V/μm) increased by about 1000 times after the oxygen-etching treatment, and the field enhancement factor β reached as high as 3810 and 1620 for the M and R states, respectively. The simple method reported in the present study may provide a protocol for building a variety of large interesting surfaces for VO2-based device applications.
Appetite and Protein Intake Strata of Older Adults in the European Union: Socio-Demographic and Health Characteristics, Diet-Related and Physical Activity Behaviours
Authors: Hung Yung , Wijnhoven Hanneke A. H. , Visser Marjolein , Verbeke Wim
Published: April 2019

Considerable efforts have been directed towards stimulating healthy ageing regarding protein intake and malnutrition, yet large-scale consumer studies are scarce and fragmented. This study aims to profile older adults in the European Union (EU) according to appetite (poor/good) and protein intake (lower/higher) strata, and to identify dietary and physical activity behaviours. A survey with older (aged 65 years or above) adults (n = 1825) in five EU countries (Netherlands, United Kingdom, Finland, Spain and Poland) was conducted in June 2017. Four appetite and protein intake strata were identified based on simplified nutritional appetite questionnaire (SNAQ) scores (≤14 versus >14) and the probability of a protein intake below 1.0 g/kg adjusted BW/day (≥0.3 versus <0.3) based on the 14-item Pro55+ screener: “appi”—Poor appetite and lower level of protein intake (12.2%); “APpi”—Good appetite but lower level of protein intake (25.5%); “apPI”—Poor appetite but higher level of protein intake (14.8%); and “APPI”—Good appetite and higher level of protein intake (47.5%). The stratum of older adults with a poor appetite and lower level of protein intake (12.2%) is characterized by a larger share of people aged 70 years or above, living in the UK or Finland, having an education below tertiary level, who reported some or severe financial difficulties, having less knowledge about dietary protein and being fussier about food. This stratum also tends to have a higher risk of malnutrition in general, oral-health related problems, experience more difficulties in mobility and meal preparation, lower confidence in their ability to engage in physical activities in difficult situations, and a lower readiness to follow dietary advice. Two multivariate linear regression models were used to identify the behavioural determinants that might explain the probability of lower protein intake, stratified by appetite status. This study provides an overview and highlights the similarities and differences in the strata profiles. Recommendations for optimal dietary and physical activity strategies to prevent protein malnutrition were derived, discussed and tailored according to older adults’ profiles.
Antidiabetic Effects of a Short Peptide of Potato Protein Hydrolysate in STZ-Induced Diabetic Mice
Authors: Marthandam Asokan Shibu , Wang Ting , Su Wei-Ting , Lin Wan-Teng
Published: April 2019

Alcalase- generated potato protein hydrolysate (APPH) is a potential bioactive peptide against diabetes mellitus (DM) and DM-associated secondary effects in animal models. The aim of the present study was to find the efficiency of a deca-peptide DIKTNKPVIF (DF) from APPH against DM. Six-week-old male ICR mice were divided into the following groups: Control, Control+DF (received 50 mg/kg DF), streptozotocin (STZ)-induced DM group, DM+Acarbose group (20 mg/kg of acarbose), DM+DF-L (25 mg/kg of DF), DM+DF-H (50 mg/kg of DF), and DM+APPH (50 mg/kg of APPH). Comparable to APPH, treatment with DF effectively regulated blood glucose level and also controlled plasma total glycerol (TG), total cholesterol (TC), insulin, and HbA1c levels in DM animals. DF treatment also showed evidence of ameliorating DM-associated damages in the pancreatic islets and in the liver, heart, and kidney tissues. Therefore, the results demonstrate that the short synthetic peptide-DF may effectively provide protection against DM-associated damages.
Exopolysaccharide-Producing Bifidobacterium adolescentis Strains with Similar Adhesion Property Induce Differential Regulation of Inflammatory Immune Response in Treg/Th17 Axis of DSS-Colitis Mice
Authors: Yu Rui , Zuo Fanglei , Ma Huiqin , Chen Shangwu
Published: April 2019

Intestinal bifidobacteria benefit human health by promoting and modulating the gut flora, and boosting therapeutic efficiency for chronic metabolic diseases and cancer. Recently, Bifidobacterium adolescentis strains with high adhesion to intestinal epithelial cells were associated with induction of T-helper 17 (Th17) cells in humans and rodents. Here, two B. adolescentis strains with similar adhesive ability but different aggregation properties were investigated for specific immunoregulatory effects, including the underlying cellular pathway, on macrophage and T-regulatory (Treg)/Th17 axis activation in vitro and in the colon of dextran sodium sulfate (DSS)-colitis mice in vivo. In-vitro, the auto-aggregative B. adolescentis strain IF1-11 induced significantly higher IL-6 and lower IL-10 secretion from immune cells, and it induced abundant Th17 cells. The non-aggregating strain IF1-03 induced significantly higher IL-10, less IL-6 and a high proportion of Treg/Th17 cells compared to total T cells. In vivo, orally administered IF1-03 protected DSS-colitis mice via activation of dendritic cells or macrophages and skewing of Treg/Th17 cells, consistent with Treg cell induction in vitro. IF1-03 exopolysaccharides showed a functional recognition pattern similar to IF1-03 for IL-10 cytokine secretion and Treg cell-differentiation induction, both dependent on the toll-like receptor 2–ERK/p38 MAPK-signaling cascade for macrophage activation. We suggest that B. adolescentis exopolysaccharide-associated enterocyte adhesion/aggregation phenotypes determine strain-specific adaptive immune responses in the gut via the macrophage-regulated Treg/Th17 axis.
Genetic Diversity of Salmonella Derby from the Poultry Sector in Europe
Authors: Sévellec Yann , Felten Arnaud , Radomski Nicolas , Granier Sophie , Le Hello Simon , Petrovska Liljana , Mistou Michel-Yves , Cadel-Six Sabrina
Published: April 2019

Salmonella Derby (S. Derby) is emerging in Europe as a predominant serovar in fattening turkey flocks. This serovar was recorded as being predominant in the turkey sector in 2014 in the United Kingdom (UK). Only two years later, in 2016, it was also recorded in the turkey and broiler sectors in Ireland and Spain. These S. Derby isolates were characterised as members of the multilocus sequence type (MLST) profile 71 (ST71). For the first time, we characterise by whole genome sequencing (WGS) analysis a panel of 90 S. Derby ST71 genomes to understand the routes of transmission of this emerging pathogen within the poultry/turkey food trade. Selected panel included strains isolated as early as 2010 in five leading European g countries for turkey meat production. Twenty-one of the 90 genomes were extracted from a public database—Enterobase. Five of these originated from the United States (n = 3), China (n = 1) and Taiwan (n = 1) isolated between 1986 and 2016. A phylogenomic analysis at the core-genome level revealed the presence of three groups. The largest group contained 97.5% of the European strains and included both, turkey and human isolates that were genetically related by an average of 35 ± 15 single nucleotide polymorphism substitutions (SNPs). To illustrate the diversity, the presence of antimicrobial resistance genes and phages were characteised in 30, S. Derby ST71 genomes, including 11 belonging to this study This study revealed an emergent turkey-related S. Derby ST71 clone circulating in at least five European countries (the UK, Germany, Poland, Italy, and France) since 2010 that causes human gastroenteritis. A matter of concern is the identification of a gyrA mutation involved in resistance to quinolone, present in the Italian genomes. Interestingly, the diversity of phages seems to be related to the geographic origins. These results constitute a baseline for following the spread of this emerging pathogen and identifying appropriate monitoring and prevention measures.
Characterization of Amorphous Solid Dispersion of Pharmaceutical Compound with pH-Dependent Solubility Prepared by Continuous-Spray Granulator
Authors: Tanaka Ryoma , Hattori Yusuke , Horie Yukun , Kamada Hitoshi , Nagato Takuya , Otsuka Makoto
Published: April 2019

A continuous-spray granulator (CTS-SGR) is a one-step granulation technology capable of using solutions or suspensions. The present research objectives were, (1) to reduce the manufacturing operations for solid dosage formulations, (2) to make amorphous solid dispersion (ASD) granules without pre-preparation of amorphous solids of active pharmaceutical ingredients (API), and (3) to characterize the obtained SGR granules by comprehensive pharmaceutical analysis. Rebamipide (RBM), a biopharmaceutical classification system class IV drug, that has low solubility or permeability in the stomach, was selected as a model compound. Five kind of granules with different concentrations of polyvinylpyrrolidone/vinyl acetate copolymer (PVP-VA) were prepared using a one-step SGR process. All of the SGR granules could be produced in amorphous or ASD form and their thermodynamic stability was very high because of high glass transition temperatures (>178 °C). They were unstable in 20 °C/75%RH; however, their stability was improved according to the proportion of polymer. The carboxy group of RBM was ionized in the granules and interactions appeared between RBM and PVP-VA, with the formation of an ASD confirmed and the solubility was enhanced compared with bulk RBM crystals. The SGR methodology has the possibility of contributing to process development in the pharmaceutical industry.
Co-Delivery of Eugenol and Dacarbazine by Hyaluronic Acid-Coated Liposomes for Targeted Inhibition of Survivin in Treatment of Resistant Metastatic Melanoma
Authors: Mishra Harshita , Mishra Pawan Kumar , Iqbal Zeenat , Jaggi Manu , Madaan Alka , Bhuyan Kimi , Gupta Namita , Gupta Neha , Vats Karnika , Verma Ritu , Talegaonkar Sushama
Published: April 2019

While melanoma remains a challenge for oncologists, possibilities are being continuously explored to fight resistant metastatic melanoma more effectively. Eugenol is reported to inhibit survivin protein in breast cancer cells. Survivin is also overexpressed by melanoma cells, and is known to impart resistance to them against chemotherapy-induced apoptosis. To be able to fight resistant melanoma, we formulated hyaluronic acid (HA)-coated liposomes loaded with an effective combination of anti-melanoma agents (Dacarbazine and Eugenol), using a solvent injection method. Quality-by-Design (QbD) was applied to optimize and obtain a final formulation with the desired quality attributes, and within an acceptable size range. The optimized formulation was then subjected to performance analysis in cell lines. Coated-Dacarbazine Eugenol Liposomes were found to possess 95.08% cytotoxicity at a dacarbazine concentration of 0.5 µg/mL, while Dacarbazine Solution showed only 10.20% cytotoxicity at the same concentration. The number of late apoptotic cells was also found to be much higher (45.16% vs. 8.43%). Furthermore, migration assay and proliferation study also revealed significantly higher inhibition of cell migration and proliferation by Coated-Dacarbazine Eugenol Liposomes, signifying its potential against metastasis. Thus, surface-functionalized dacarbazine- and eugenol-loaded liposomes hold great promise against resistant and aggressive metastatic melanoma, with much less unwanted cytotoxicity and reduced doses of the chemotherapeutic agent.
Opportunities for Outpatient Pharmacy Services for Patients with Cystic Fibrosis: Perceptions of Healthcare Team Members
Authors: Abraham Olufunmilola , Morris Ashley
Published: April 2019

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is one of the most common life-threatening, genetic conditions. People with CF follow complex, time-consuming treatment regimens to manage their chronic condition. Due to the complexity of the disease, multidisciplinary care from CF Foundation (CFF)-accredited centers is recommended for people with CF. These centers include several types of healthcare professionals specializing in CF; however, pharmacists are not required members. The purpose of this study was to identify the outpatient care needs of people living with CF that pharmacists could address to improve their quality of care. Healthcare members from a CFF accredited center and pharmacists were recruited to participate in semi-structured, audio-recorded interviews. Prevalent codes were identified and data analysis was conducted, guided by the systems engineering initiative for patient safety (SEIPS) model. The objective was to understand the medication and pharmacy-related needs of patients with CF and care team perspectives on pharmacists providing support for these patients. From the themes that emerged, pharmacists can provide support for people living with CF (medication burden, medication access, medication education) and the CF care team (drug monitoring and adherence, prior authorizations and insurance coverage, refill history). Pharmacists are well-positioned to address these difficulties to improve quality of care for people living with cystic fibrosis.
The Problem of Meaning in AI and Robotics: Still with Us after All These Years
Authors: Froese Tom , Taguchi Shigeru
Published: April 2019

In this essay we critically evaluate the progress that has been made in solving the problem of meaning in artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics. We remain skeptical about solutions based on deep neural networks and cognitive robotics, which in our opinion do not fundamentally address the problem. We agree with the enactive approach to cognitive science that things appear as intrinsically meaningful for living beings because of their precarious existence as adaptive autopoietic individuals. But this approach inherits the problem of failing to account for how meaning as such could make a difference for an agent’s behavior. In a nutshell, if life and mind are identified with physically deterministic phenomena, then there is no conceptual room for meaning to play a role in its own right. We argue that this impotence of meaning can be addressed by revising the concept of nature such that the macroscopic scale of the living can be characterized by physical indeterminacy. We consider the implications of this revision of the mind-body relationship for synthetic approaches.