bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessing the Stability of Inkjet-Printed Carbon Nanotube for Brine Sensing Applications
Authors: Marbou Khalid , Gil Waqas , Ghaferi Amal Al , Saadat Irfan , Alhammadi Khalid , Khair Aseel Mohammed , Younes Hammad
Published: July 2020

In hostile environments, sensing is critical for many industries such as chemical and oil/gas. Within this industry, the deposition of scales or minerals on various infrastructure components (e.g., pipelines) forms a reliability hazard that needs to be monitored. Therefore, the approach
adopted in this study to tackle this issue relies on the use of real-time sensing of specific ions in brine, the natural trigger for ions deposition. In order to do so, electrochemical sensors based on carbon nanotubes (CNTs) are developed, taking advantage of their unique properties facilitated
by different synthesis and fabrication methods. One of these promising synthesis methods is inkjet printing of CNT films since in general, it has exceptional benefits over other approaches that are used to print CNTs. Furthermore, it does not need the use templates. In addition, it is a very
fast technique with consistent printing results for many applications along with very low cost on various shapes/formfactors. As these sensors are exposed to a hostile environment (chemical, temperature, etc.), the stability of the CNT films is of great importance. In this study, a comprehensive
investigation of the stability of CNT surfaces upon exposure to elements is presented. Accordingly, the several impacts of this interaction on physical properties of the surfaces as a function of interaction time and brine chemical composition are assessed. Moreover, the approach used for
investigating the impact of this exposure involves the following: surface electrical resistance change using four probe measurements; surface roughness/topography using Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) along Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM); quality of CNT through Raman spectroscopy and wettability
using the sessile drop method. The sensing capabilities of the devices are investigated by looking at the sensing selectivity of target ions, resetting capabilities, and sensing sensitivity manifested in the electrical resistance change. Consequently, our results indicate that while inkjet
films are very promising sensor material, the fabrication and long term stability require further optimization of the films along with the process to make them meet reliability and lifetime requirements in the oil/gas hostile operational environments.
Highly Efficient Photocatalytic Disinfection of Escherichia coli by Rose Bengal-Functionalized Graphene Oxide Nanosheets
Authors: Chi Fenping , Chen Pengpeng , Mao Changjie
Published: July 2020

Rose Bengal (RB) was used as a functional pigment and poly dimethyl diallyl ammonium chloride was used as a coupling agent to modify Graphene Oxide (GO) in order to enhance the light absorption and ROS generation of GO. GO, RB and the obtained RB-PDDA-GO were characterized by scanning
electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectrometry, thermogravimetric analysis, Raman spectroscopy, UV-visible spectrophotometry, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The oxidation of hydroquinone to p-benzoquinone was used to evaluate the oxidation
ability. Three kinds of reactive oxygen species (O2·-, 1O2 and ·OH) produced by the materials under light irradiation were detected by the ESR method using TEMP (2,2,6,6-tetramethyl-4-piperidine) and DMPO (5,5-dimethyl-1-pyrroline-N-oxide)
as capture agents. The results showed that RB-PDDA-GO produced more ROS under light than GO. Antibacterial experiments were carried out with E. coli as the target strain to detect the actual utility of ROS produced by the materials. The results showed that RB-PDDA-GO had a significant
sterilization effect.
Preparation of Defect-Related Luminescent Mesoporous Silica Nanoparticle as Potential Detectable Drug Carrier
Authors: He Yongju , Xu Hui , Liang Shuquan
Published: July 2020

A defect-related luminescent mesoporous silica nanoparticle (DLMSN) with simultaneous excellent luminescence, high drug loading efficiency and release capacity was prepared upon calcination of 3-aminopropyltriethoxysilane (APTES)-functionalized mesoporous silica nanoparticle (AP-MSN)
under a relatively moderate temperature. Under ultraviolet excitation at 365 nm, DLMSN exhibited intense white-blue emission with a range of 400–500 nm, which was inferred to originate from the effective carbon or nitrogen defect in the particle causing by APTES calcination. Additionally,
the luminescence intensity of DLMSN was significantly affected by APTES concentration and calcination temperature during the preparation procedure. Within all the tested values, the maximum luminescence intensity was achieved when APTES concentration and calcination temperature were 0.851
mmol and 300 °C, respectively. The drug storage and release tests demonstrated that DLMSN had efficient drug storage and good pH-dependent release for ibuprofen (IBU). Interestingly, ibuprofen-loaded DLMSN (IBU@DLMSN) still exhibit an intense luminescence with an emission peak at around
410 nm under 365 nm excitation, which gradually increased with the sustained release of IBU from IBU@DLMSN. These results suggest that the as-prepared DLMSN may have potential as a detectable nanocarrier in the drug delivery field.
Comb-Shaped Graphene Nanoribbon Bandpass Filter
Authors: Deng Guangsheng , Zhao Tianxiang , Yin Zhiping , Li Ying , Yang Jun
Published: July 2020

In this study, a novel comb-shaped graphene nanoribbon wideband bandpass filter for use at midinfrared frequencies is proposed. In addition, numerical investigation was carried outwith finite difference time-domain (FDTD) numerical simulations. The filter includes one graphene nanoribbon
(GNR) waveguide laterally coupled to six perpendicular GNRs on each side. With a simple geometric shape, the transmission bandwidth and efficiency of waves within the structure can be tuned by altering the width or length of the GNR teeth. Moreover, the transmission spectra can be easily tuned
within a broad frequency region by tuning the chemical potential of the graphene teeth, thanks to the electronic tunability of monolayer graphene. This work offers a promising method for developing ultra-compact tunable graphene devices and for designing integrated all-optical architectures.
Effect of Ultramicro Superparamagnetic Iron Oxide Nanoparticles on Cerebral Infarction in Mice
Authors: Zhang Bin , Di Xiuting , Song Yizhou , Li Banglin
Published: July 2020

To investigate the effect of Feraheme (ferumoxytol) intravenous injection on cerebral infarction volume and inflammatory response in mice with permanent middle cerebral artery occlusion. We randomly divided 30 CS7BL6J mice into sham operated group, normal saline control group, and Feraheme
group with 10 mice in each group. The model of permanent occlusion of right middle cerebral artery was made via the modified suture method in the normal saline control group and the Feraheme group. After 24 h of establishment the model, the tail vein was injected with 18 mg/kg Feraheme in
the sham operation group and Feraheme group, and the normal saline control group was injected with an equal volume of normal saline. Neurobehavioral scores were obtained 24 h (before injection of Feraheme or normal saline) and 48 h (before MRI) after the model was established. The volume of
cerebral infarction was calculated according to T2 weighted imaging. Orbital blood was collected after nodal scanning to detect serum TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6 levels. Then, the brain tissues of mice were killed for HE staining and IBAL immunohistochemical staining. No
significant differences in cerebral infarction volume and neurological function were observed between the normal saline control group and Feraheme group. The levels of TNF-α, IL-1β and IL-6 in the normal saline control group and Feraheme group were significantly higher
than those in the sham operation group (P < 0.05), but there were no significant differences between the normal saline control group and Feraheme group. We showed that intravenous injection of 18 mg/kg Feraheme 24 h after cerebral ischemia does not affect the infarct volume and inflammatory
response, suggesting that the dose of Feraheme can be used for molecular imaging studies of inflammatory response after cerebral ischemia.
Observation and Nursing of the Curative Effect of Ag/TiO2 Nanomaterials on Bacterial Vaginosis and Trichomonal Vaginitis
Authors: Li Yan , Xu Zhiping , Qi Hongying , Zhu Zheng , Chen Sisi , Zhang Guiqin
Published: July 2020

This study investigated the effect of nano-Ag/TiO2 composite antibacterial agent on bacterial vaginosis and trichomonas vaginitis. Bacterial vaginosis and trichomonas vaginitis were treated with nano-Ag/TiO2 composite antibacterial agent (composite treatment group)
and ornidazole suppository (traditional treatment group). Vaginal secretions from both treatment groups were analyzed to determine the effectiveness of the methods. The effective rate of the nano-Ag/TiO2 composite antibacterial agent was 97.0% for bacterial vaginosis and 94.4% for
trichomonas vaginitis. The traditional treatment method, ornidazole suppository, showed an effective rate of 79.5% for bacterial vaginitis and 88.9% for trichomonas vaginitis. Therefore, the nano-Ag/TiO2 composite antibacterial agent was determined to be an effective treatment method
for bacterial vaginosis and trichomonas vaginitis.
The Effect of Nano-Albumin Paclitaxel on the Early Postoperative Recurrence of Primary Liver Cancer
Authors: Wang Xinhong , Li Min , Wang Jing , Cao Yihong
Published: July 2020

This study aimed at investigating the clinical effect and safety of albumin binding paclitaxel (Nab-P) for the first-line treatment of advanced primary liver cancer. Clinical data of 23 patients with primary liver cancer, who were treated in the first-line tumor treatment Department
in the PLA General Hospital from May 2014 to December 2015, were analyzed retrospectively. The patients were divided into an observation group and a control group, according to their treatment plan. The patients in the observation group (12) received Nab-P treatment (5 cases of Nab-P combined
with tegeor, 5 cases of Nab-P combined with capecitabine, and 2 cases of Nab-P single drug), and the patients in the control group (11) received gemcitabine combined with oxaliplatin. Each treatment cycle lasted for 21 days, and the treatment effect was evaluated once every two cycles, while
the adverse reactions were assessed after every cycle. The survival rates of the different groups were compared using the chi-square test or the Fisher’s exact test, the Kaplan Meier survival curve, and the log rank test. Results from all patients were used to evaluate treatment efficacy
and adverse reactions. In the observation group, there were 2 cases of partial remission, 7 cases of disease stability, and 3 cases of disease progress; in the control group, there were 2 cases of partial remission, 5 cases of disease stability, and 4 cases of disease progress. There was no
significant difference in disease control rate between the two groups (75% vs. 64%, χ2 = 0.350, P > 0.05). There was no significant difference in the median progression free survival time between the two groups (5.1 (2.7–6.7) months versus 4.3 (2.5–54)
months, χ2 =0.647, P > 0.05). No serious side effects were observed in any of the two groups. Among the observed side effects were some PLT toxicity and increased AST (Aspartate transaminase) incidence, which showed a statistically significant difference between
the two groups (χ2 = 5.490, P = 0.036 for PLT; χ2 = 6.135, P = 0.027 for AST). The new Nab-P-based drug regimen has a good effect against primary liver cancer, and the side effects are tolerable. However, the sample size used in this
study was small and further clinical studies using larger samples are required to verify the results.
Synthesis and Characterization of CuO Rods for Enhanced Visible Light Driven Dye Degradation
Authors: Rahman Qazi Inamur , Ali Arif , Ahmad Naseem , Lohani Minaxi B. , Mehta S. K. , Muddassir Mohd
Published: July 2020

Here, we report simple and efficient method to synthesize CuO rods using copper acetate, hexamethylenetetramine (HMTA) and sodium hydroxide (NaOH) solutions via hydrothermal process followed by calcination. The Field emission scanning electron microscopy images revealed that synthesized
CuO rods were 2–4μm thick with several micrometers long and grown into high density. The as-synthesized CuO rods were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), UV-visible spectroscopy and Energy dispersive X-ray analysis (EDS)
which confirmed the formation of highly crystalline, single phase pure CuO rods with monoclinic structures. The photocatalytic capability of synthesized CuO rods was executed by monitoring the degradation of methylene blue (MB) dye under visible light illumination. The results showed MB dye
degraded about ~70% in just 100 min and followed first order reaction kinetics with rate constant k = 0.01123 mint.1 and R2 = 0.9880.
Improvement and Application of qPCR (Real-Time Quantitative Polymerase Chain Reaction) Data Processing Method for Home-Made Integrated Nucleic Acid Detection System
Authors: Fang Yile , Liao Pei , Chen Zhu , Chen Hui , Wu Yanqi , Li Song , Deng Yan , He Nongyue
Published: July 2020

Because it has many advantages such as rapidity and accuracy, nucleic acid detection is applied to infectious disease diagnosis more and more. An automatic integrated nucleic acid detection system based on real-time PCR is developed by our research group to conduct point-of-care testing
of infectious pathogens. The home-made detection system collects fluorescence data in each PCR cycle through an integrated dual-channel fluorescence detection module and then real-time fluorescence curves are drawn by the software, which can tell the results of the diagnostics after some processing
and analysis. However, owing to the disturbance of the environment or the imperfect of nucleic acid extraction before PCR, the fluorescence curves sometimes may contain several abnormal points. For the purpose of enhancing its ability to deal with these iffy curves and improve the accuracy
of the testing results, in this study, the SDM-based qPCR data processing algorithm was studied and 11 groups of qPCR data that have different flaws from the clinical samples detected by this system were chosen to prove the practicability of the method. In comparison with the conventional
threshold-based method, the Cq values calculated by the SDM-based method were more close to the actual values, meaning it can overcome the shortcomings of the conventional methods such as being unable to accommodate noise and being unable to avoiding abnormal data. With the improvement
of this data processing algorithm, the stability of our system and the reliability and accuracy of the results are greatly improved.
Tissue Inhibitor of Matrix Metalloproteinase 2-Loaded Polylactic Acid-Polyethylene Glycol Nanoparticles Directly Regulates Renal Tubular Epithelial Cell Proliferation via Protein Tyrosine Kinase KIT
Authors: Ke Xiaosu , Zhou Qin , Li Bin , Shao Xiaofei , Hong Guobao , Zou Hequn , Ling Yunzhi
Published: July 2020

TIMP2 has been previously reported to be associated with acute kidney injury (AKI); however, the underlying mechanism remains unclear. Therefore, the present study investigated the regulation of TIMP2 in human tubular epithelial cells HK-2 cells. Proliferation of HK-2 cells treated
by TIMP2 at normal expression level was detected. GST pulldown and mass spectrometry were performed to investigate the interacting protein of TIMP2 and immunofluorescence test was used to determine the location of the protein in HK-2 cells. Cell viability as well as the expression level of
CCND1, C-FOS, MAPK1 and P-MAPK1 were detected in the samples treated by overexpressed TIMP2 and the inhibitor of the interacting protein KIT. TIMP2 significantly inhibited cell proliferation compared with the control and BB-94-treated groups (P < 0.05). KIT was identified as the
interacting protein of TIMP2, and was located in both the cytoplasm and membrane of HK-2 cells. Inhibited KIT and the overexpressed of TIMP2 both significantly suppressed cell proliferation and decreased the expression levels of CCND1, MAPK1, and P-MAPK1 compared with the control (P
< 0.05). No significant difference was observed in cell proliferation and the expression level of aforementioned proteins between overexpressed TIMP2 and KIT-inhibited group. The results revealed that TIMP2 regulates cell proliferation by reducing the expression levels of CCND1, MAPK1,
and P-MAPK1 via KIT, indicating that TIMP2 directly regulates cell proliferation without inhibiting matrix metalloproteinases in AKI. Furthermore, PLA-PEG nanoparticles successfully transported TIMP2 to the target with no significant effect on cell proliferation.
Effects of Ropivacaine Nanoparticles on the Apoptosis of Cerebral Vascular Endothelial Cells
Authors: Wang Duanyu , Liu Yajun , Liu Wei , Qi Haiyan
Published: July 2020

To investigate the protective effect of ropivacaine nanoparticles on endothelial cells in the blood brain barrier (BBB) during the development of ischemic brain edema, and its effects on endothelial cell death. Forty-two male Wistar rats weighing 250–300 g and aged 3–4 months
were randomly divided into three groups: (1) ropivacaine nanoparticles, (2) saline control and (3) sham operation groups. The membrane of capillary endothelial cells in the animals treated with ropivacaine nanoparticles were intact, with reduced edema, and less severe brain injury when compared
to the control. In the ropivacaine nanoparticle group, the number of apoptotic cells decreased at 6 h and 24 h after ischemia, while the number of apoptotic cells in the ischemic penumbra increased. The number of apoptotic cells in the ropivacaine nanoparticles group was significantly lower
than in the saline treated control. Ropivacaine nanoparticles exert significant protective effects on the vascular endothelial cells and the BBB during cerebral ischemia.
Removal of Toxic Heavy Metal Ions (Pb, Cr, Cu, Ni, Zn, Co, Hg, and Cd) from Waste Batteries or Lithium Cells Using Nanosized Metal Oxides: A Review
Authors: Zhang Yuzhe , Wang Bin , Cheng Qian , Li Xinling , Li Zhongyu
Published: July 2020

How to remove harmful heavy metal ions from waste batteries or lithium cells efficiently has been the focus of scholars. More and more metal oxides had been used to deal with the pollution of heavy metal caused by waste batteries in recent years. Nanostructured metal oxides have great
potential because of their large comparative areas. The adsorption for these heavy metal ions can be further improved by using modified metal oxides as adsorbents. At present, iron oxide is widely used in this field. Other metal oxides have also been studied in removing these heavy metal ions.
Compared to other metal oxides, the adsorbents made of iron oxide are easy to be separated from the reaction system. pH value in the solution can affect the activity of adsorption sites on metal oxides adsorbents and change the distribution of ions in solution. As a result, pH value can significantly
influence the adsorption of metal oxides adsorbents for heavy metal ions from waste batteries or lithium cells.
Electrochemical Detection of Bisphenol A Based on N-Doped Carbon Quantum Dots@Carbon Nanotubes Composite
Authors: Chen Zhongzhen , Huang Haiping , Chen Yanan , Ye Ying , Wu Shuzhen , Wang Wenjing , Hu Yongmei
Published: July 2020

A novel nanocomposite of N-Doped Carbon Quantum Dots@Carbon Nanotubes was synthesized in this study for electrochemical detection of bisphenol A by differential pulse voltammetry. The nanocomposite was characterized by transmission electron microscopy, scanning electron microscopy,
X-ray powder diffraction and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. Electrochemical properties of the nanocomposite modified glassy carbon electrodes were studied via cyclic voltammetry. Differential pulse voltammetry experimental results showed that N-Doped Carbon Quantum Dots@Carbon Nanotubes/glassy
carbon electrode exhibited excellent catalysis activity towards electrochemical oxidation of bisphenol A. The oxidation peak current was linearly increased with concentration of bisphenol A in the range from 0.4 μM to 40 μM, with a limit of detection of 65 nM.
A Meta-Analysis of Au/Polypropionic Acid Nanoparticles Loaded with Olacetam for the Treatment of Vascular Cognitive Impairment
Authors: Yi Zhen , Liang Weiheng , Ruan Wenwen , Hua Wei , Lin Xinjing
Published: July 2020

To systematically evaluate the efficacy and safety of oxetam in the treatment of vascular cognitive dysfunction and the feasibility of an Au/polypropionic acid Nanometer drug delivery system to provide evidence for clinical application. PubMed, Shanghai embase, Cochrane Library, CNKI,
VIP information, and Wanfang database were searched from the establishment of the database to April 2018. Patients were divided into two groups according to whether they received olacetam: the experimental group and the control group. In addition, the control group was divided into the placebo
control group and the positive control group according to whether the control group received a placebo or other medication treatment controls. In the control group, a meta-analysis, a publication bias assessment, and sensitivity analysis were performed with Revman 5.3 and Stata 14.0. The results
of the meta-analysis showed that compared with placebo and other medications, oxiracetam significantly improved the mental status of patients, Concise Mental State Checklist score [mean difference (MD)= 5.29, P < 0.01] and Montreal Cognitive Assessment score (MD = 4.32, P
< 0.01). The Barthel Index demonstrated that oxiracetam significantly improved the quality of the daily life of patients (MD = 18, P < 0.01), but there was no difference between olacetam and placebo or other medications in the rating of activities of daily living (ADLs). The total
effective rate of olacetam was significantly higher than that of other treatments (P < 0.01). Compared with placebo and other medications, the safety of oxiracetam was not significantly different (P > 0.05). Based on the current clinical evidence, olacetam is more effective
and safer than alternatives in the treatment of vascular cognitive dysfunction.
Fabrication of Highly Stable Fully-Inorganic Halide Perovskite Films for Optoelectronic Application
Authors: Yoo Jung Hyeon , Jeong Seong Guk , Kim Hyun Bin , Choi Seung Hee , Kwon Seok Bin , Song Young Hyun , Yoon Dae Ho
Published: July 2020

Despite the fact that stability is a critical issue affecting halide perovskite after the materials have been developed, these materials continue to be studied due to their outstanding optoelectronic characteristics such as narrow emission band width, high PLQY. Many methods are suggested
and improved, but the limitations for the display and lighting applications are still remaining. Here, we propose the fabrication of stable cesium lead tri-halide (CsPbX3; X= Cl, Br, I) perovskite films using photocurable polyurethane material, norland optical adhesive 63 (NOA 63),
to generate white LEDs by placing films on the InGaN 450 nm blue chip. Comparing with the conventional perovskites, fabricated films well maintained the luminescence properties such as full widths at half maximum (FWHM) of 18 nm and 31 nm for green and red films, respectively. For the stability
issue, pristine perovskite without encapsulation is decomposed immediately at high humidity and temperature, but NOA 63 encapsulated perovskite maintained a PL emission property of 60% after four hours in artificial atmosphere. The CIE color triangle reached ~119% of the NTSC standard, exhibiting
high color purity. From the results, we confirm that the NOA 63 encapsulated halide perovskites are beneficial when applied in optoelectronic applications due to their improved stability and maintained characteristics.
Effect of Coupling Indium Tin Oxide with the TiO2–NaYF4:(Gd, Si) Composite for Photocatalytic Properties
Authors: Mavengere Shielah , Jung Sang-Chul , Kim Jung-Sik
Published: July 2020

Indium tin oxide (ITO) nanoparticles were coupled with NaYF4:(Gd, Si) using a TiO2-solution impregnation method. Scanning electron microscopy confirmed that TiO2 and ITO nanoparticles were loaded on the surface of the NaYF4:(Gd, Si) upconversion phosphor. The ultraviolet/visible
spectra of the 20 wt.% ITO-NaYF4:(Gd, Si)/TiO2 composites were extended at the absorption edges towards the UV-visible region. The 20 wt.% ITO-coupled NaYF4:(Gd, Si)/TiO2 composites exhibited superior photocatalytic efficiency compared to only NaYF4:(Gd, Si)/TiO2
under near-infrared (NIR) irradiation. Multi-wavelength NIR photons of γ > 760 nm from a Xe solar simulator source induced photo-activation through the NaYF4:(Gd, Si) activator centers. The three-cycle photocatalytic reusability performance of the 20 wt.% ITO-impregnated NaYF4:(Gd,
Si)/TiO2 composite was positively enhanced by up to 20% more than that of NaYF4:(Gd, Si)/TiO2.
Synthesis of Nitrogen and Phosphorus Dual-Doped Graphene Oxide as High-Performance Anode Material for Lithium-Ion Batteries
Authors: Wang Ke , Li Zhi
Published: July 2020

Nitrogen and phosphorus dual-doped graphene oxide was prepared by directly calcining a mixture of pure graphene oxide, urea (nitrogen source), and 1,2-bis(diphenylphosphino)methane (phosphorous source). The morphology and composition of the obtained dual-doped graphene oxide were confirmed
by SEM, TEM, XRD pattern, Raman spectrum, and XPS. The nitrogen and phosphorous dual-doped graphene oxide was tested as an anode material of lithium-ion batteries (LIBs). The cycle and rate performance of the dual-doped graphene oxide were also examined. The dualdoped graphene oxide exhibited
a superior initial discharge capacity of 2796 mAh·g−1 and excellent reversible capacity of 1200 mAh·g−1 at a current density of 100 mA·g−1 after 200 charge/discharge cycles, suggesting that the dual-doping of nitrogen
and phosphorous is an effective way to enhance lithium-ion storage for graphene oxide.
Gas Phase Dehydration of Glycerol to Acrolein Over Nickel Phosphate Catalysts
Authors: Ma Tianlin , Ding Jianfei , Liu Xueli , Chen Gangling , Zheng Jiandong
Published: July 2020

We investigated the catalytic performance of glycerol conversion to acrolein on nickel phosphates samples (NiP-T (T = 300,400,500,600, and 700 °C)). The textural property, acidity of the fresh catalyst and carbon content of the used NiP-500 were also determined. The results
showed that NiP was amorphous under the appropriate calcination temperature. The textural property, acid amount and strength were important in this reaction. Glycerol conversion was proportional to the acid amount of the sample. After 2 h on stream, NiP-500 with the largest pore size, largest
acid amount and largest number of moderate acid sites had the maximum catalytic performance (89% glycerol conversion and 64% acrolein selectivity). NiP-700 showed the lowest performance (48% glycerol conversion and 34% acrolein selectivity), which is due to the lowest surface area, pore size
and the lowest acid amount of NiP-700. Moreover, the catalyst deactivation was ascribed to carbon deposition on phosphates during the reaction.
Ultrasound-Mediated Drug Delivery in Cancer Therapy: A Review
Authors: Al Sawaftah Nour M. , Husseini Ghaleb A.
Published: July 2020

The use of ultrasound as a medical diagnostic tool began in the 1940s. Ever since, the medical applications of ultrasound have included imaging, tumor ablation, and lithotripsy; however, an ever-increasing body of literature demonstrates that ultrasound has potential in other medical
applications, including targeted drug delivery. Site-specific drug delivery involves delivering drugs to diseased areas with a high degree of precision, which is particularly advantageous in cancer treatment as it would minimize the adverse side effects experienced by patients. This review
addresses the ability of ultrasound to induce localized and controlled drug release from nanocarriers, namely micelles and liposomes, utilizing thermal and/or mechanical effects. The interactions of ultrasound with micelles and liposomes, the effects of the lipid composition, and ultrasound
parameters on the release of encapsulated drugs are discussed. In addition, a survey of the literature detailing some in vitro and in vivo ultrasound triggered drug delivery systems is presented.
Experimental Study of Ultrafine Superparamagnetic Iron Oxide-Enhanced MRI in an Atherosclerotic Plaque Model
Authors: Chen Xinjian , Li Xia , Chen Qiong
Published: July 2020

Unstable atherosclerotic (AS) plaques contain numerous macrophages that can phagocytose a specific contrast agent, namely ultrafine superparamagnetic iron oxide (USPIO). This study prepared USPIO nanoparticles, defined their physical and magnetic properties and transmission characteristics,
explored the feasibility of their use as a magnetic resonance negative contrast agent, and used them to detect unstable AS plaque as a specific marker of macrophages. We randomly divided 20 healthy male New Zealand white rabbits into two groups, experimental and control (n = 10 each).
The experimental group was fed pure high-fat feed. The magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) performance of arterial plaque before and after USPIO enhancement compare with pathological results. The experimental group successfully established a rabbit AS plaque model, and 8 of 10 rabbits developed
AS plaque. USPIO-enhanced T2W1 sequence showed that the central signal of the plaque was reduced, and the signal-to-noise ratio of the vascular wall was the lowest at 96 h. The control group showed no change in the wall signal before and after enhancement. The USPIO-enhanced PJN2D-TOF sequence
showed dotted filling defects on the tube wall. Pathological examination showed that USPIO nanoparticles were mainly deposited under the arterial intima. A simple high-fat diet can establish a rabbit AS plaque model, and USPIO-enhanced MRI reflects the condition of rabbit AS plaque, which
is helpful in evaluating AS lesion diagnosis.
Novel Molten Salt Assisted Autocombustion Method for the Synthesis of Aluminum-Doped SrFe12−xAlxO19 Hexaferrite Nanoparticles
Authors: Poudel T. P. , Guragain D. , Mohapatra J. , Liu J. P. , Mishra S. R.
Published: July 2020

The study presents a novel molten salt assisted autocombustion synthesis of SrFe12−xAlxO19 particles. The extrinsic magnetic properties such as coercivity and the remanence of sintered M-type ferrites are highly dependent on the microstructure
viz. morphology and size, of the ferrite particles. The control of the microstructures of ferrite particles is usually achieved via control nucleation and grain growth process. In this study, NaCl salt was used to control the crystal shape and size of Al3+ doped SrFe12−xAlxO19
particles. The presented novel method couples advantage of deriving homogenized particles via auctocombustion first and later sintering in the presence of NaCl salt. Highly dispersed, homogeneous, and hexagonal shaped SrFe12−xAlxO19 ferrite
particles were achieved with this method. The particles derived via the molten salt assisted method presented a high coercivity and squareness ratio (>0.5) as compared to that obtained via autocombustion method only.
Study on the Mechanism of Olfactomedin 4-shRNA Plasmid Chitosan Magnetic Nanoparticles in Intestinal Metaplasia of Chronic Atrophic Gastritis
Authors: Li Haiwen , Li Jingwei , Li Peiwu , Zhang Weijian , Yang Weiqin , Xu Yifei , Kang Jianyuan , Zhang Jingchao , Wu Yabin , Pan Huafeng , Guo Shaoju
Published: July 2020

Intestinal metaplasia (IM) refers to the replacement of gastric epithelial cells by intestinal epithelial cells. This is often accompanied by chronic atrophic gastritis (CAG), which is a precancerous lesion of gastric cancer. The incidence rates of CAG and IM are increasing gradually,
which generates an enormous economic burden to individuals and society. To explore the pathogenesis of CAG with IM, we screened out the differentially expressed gene olfactomedin 4 (OLFM4) by bioinformatics and constructed OLFM4-shRNA plasmid chitosan magnetic nanoparticles to knockdown this
gene. This caused a downregulation of caudal type homeobox 2 (CDX2), a marker of IM, suggesting that knocking down OLFM4 may slow the pathological process of IM, thus providing putative relevant targets for the treatment of CAG with IM.
Interactions Between Remdesivir, Ribavirin, Favipiravir, Galidesivir, Hydroxychloroquine and Chloroquine with Fragment Molecular of the COVID-19 Main Protease with Inhibitor N3 Complex (PDB ID:6LU7) Using Molecular Docking
Authors: Silva Arouche Tiago da , Reis Arthur Ferreira , Martins Anderson Yuri , S. Costa Jose Francisco , Carvalho Junior Raul Nunes , J. C. Neto Antonio Maia
Published: July 2020

We started a study on the molecular docking of six potential pharmacologically active inhibitors compounds that can be used clinically against the COVID-19 virus, in this case, remdesivir, ribavirin, favipiravir, galidesivir, hydroxychloroquine and chloroquine interacting with the main
COVID-19 protease in complex with a COVID-19 N3 protease inhibitor. The highest values of affinity energy found in order from highest to lowest were chloroquine (CHL), hydroxychloroquine (HYC), favipiravir (FAV), galidesivir (GAL), remdesivir (REM) and ribavirin (RIB). The possible formation
of hydrogen bonds, associations through London forces and permanent electric dipole were analyzed. The values of affinity energy obtained for the hydroxychloroquine ligands was −9.9 kcal/mol and for the chloroquine of −10.8 kcal/mol which indicate that the coupling contributes
to an effective improvement of the affinity energies with the protease. Indicating that, the position chosen to make the substitutions may be a pharmacophoric group, and cause changes in the protease.
Improved Electrochemical and Mechanical Properties of Poly(vinylpyrrolidone)/Nafion® Membrane for Fuel Cell Applications
Authors: Lutful Kabir M. D. , Paul Subir , Choi Sang-June , Kim Hee Jin
Published: July 2020

A novel blend of membranes made of Nafion® and poly(vinylpyrrolidone) (PVP) was prepared and characterized to investigate its applicability in proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs). In addition to being effectively proton conductive, the membranes exhibited better
mechanical strength, chemical stability, and adequate water retention ability, as well as ion exchange capacity comparable to that of cast Nafion® membrane. The data obtained from an electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) fitting of the fuel cells revealed the membrane
electrode assemblies (MEAs) made of 0.5 wt.% PVP/Nafion® had lower ohmic and charge transfer resistance compared with that of the Nafion® membrane. The intermolecular interactions and morphology of these membranes were assessed using Fourier-transform infrared
spectroscopy and field-emission scanning electron microscopy. The results of the performance curve indicate that the introduction of PVP as a modifier played a vital role in improving membrane performance. Accordingly, this solution-casted polymer electrolyte membrane with suitable PVP content
offers a simple way to improve electrochemical, mechanical, and chemical properties, and thereby promises the prospect of use in low-temperature PEMFCs.
Genome-wide identification and expression analysis of YTH domain-containing RNA-binding protein family in common wheat
Authors: Sun Jing , Bie Xiao Min , Wang Ning , Zhang Xian Sheng , Gao Xin-Qi
Published: July 2020

Background

N6-Methyladenosine (m6A) is the most widespread RNA modification that plays roles in the regulation of genes and genome stability. YT521-B homology (YTH) domain-containing RNA-binding proteins are important RNA binding proteins that affect the fate of m6A-containing RNA by binding m6A. Little is known about the YTH genes in common wheat (Triticum aestivum L.), one of the most important crops for humans.

Results

A total of 39 TaYTH genes were identified in common wheat, which are comprised of 13 homologous triads, and could be mapped in 18 out of the 21 chromosomes. A phylogenetic analysis revealed that the TaYTHs could be divided into two groups: YTHDF (TaDF) and YTHDC (TaDC). The TaYTHs in the same group share similar motif distributions and domain organizations, which indicates functional similarity between the closely related TaYTHs. The TaDF proteins share only one domain, which is the YTH domain. In contrast, the TaDCs possess three C3H1-type zinc finger repeats at their N-termini in addition to their central YTH domain. In TaDFs, the predicated aromatic cage pocket that binds the methylysine residue of m6A is composed of tryptophan, tryptophan, and tryptophan (WWW). In contrast, the aromatic cage pocket in the TaDCs is composed of tryptophan, tryptophan, and tyrosine (WWY). In addition to the general aspartic acid or asparagine residue used to form a hydrogen bond with N1 of m6A, histidine might be utilized in some TaDFb proteins. An analysis of the expression using both online RNA-Seq data and quantitative real-time PCR verification revealed that the TaDFa and TaDFb genes are highly expressed in various tissues/organs compared with that of TaDFcs and TaDCs. In addition, the expression of the TaYTH genes is changed in response to various abiotic stresses.

Conclusions

In this study, we identified 39 TaYTH genes from common wheat. The phylogenetic structure, chromosome distribution, and patterns of expression of these genes and their protein structures were analyzed. Our results provide a foundation for the functional analysis of TaYTHs in the future.
Carbon stock, sequestration and soil properties among fields in smallholder farms in southern Ethiopia
Authors: Laekemariam Fanuel
Published: July 2020

Background

Soil organic carbon (SOC) is key indicator of soil quality and health. It has substantial benefits to the ecosystem. Information on the magnitude of carbon pools under field scale of subsistence farms is scanty. This study aimed to assess carbon stock, sequestration and soil properties among different fields in smallholder farms of southern Ethiopia. Five field types within a farm were investigated viz. coffee (Coffea arabica L.), enset (Ensete ventricosum), root and tuber crop field (RTC), crop field used for growing cereals and pulses, and fallow land. For each field, eight representative fields as a replication were selected. Surface soil samples were collected, and analyzed to determine soil physico-chemical properties. In addition, C stock, C-sequestration, and CO2 emission were also evaluated.

Results

The result regarding soil properties revealed significant differences in almost all of investigated parameters. The minimum and maximum values being recorded were: bulk density (BD) (1.05, 1.29 gm cm−3), pH (6.1, 7.0), SOC (1.1, 2.48%), TN (0.09–0.19%), available P (1.1, 70.9 mg/kg), total exchangeable bases (9.5, 20.5 Cmolc/kg), K/Mg (0.37,1.02), B (0.4, 1.2 mg/kg) Cu (0.32, 0.91 mg/kg), Zn (5, 20.5 mg/kg), Fe (105.5, 133.8 mg/kg) and CEC (18.6, 27.5 mg/kg). Fields in the backyard (enset and coffee) showed lowest BD and maximum values of soil chemical properties. On contrary, highest BD and lowest values of chemical parameters were observed in crop and fallow fields. The result further indicated that the field that stocked and sequestered more carbon, and emitted less CO2 was coffee > enset > RTC > crop field > fallow land. C-stock and sequestration (t/ha) magnitude was being: coffee (81.4, 298.5), enset (75.5, 277.0), RTC (68.8, 252.6), crop field (57.5, 211.0) and fallow (43.3, 159). Using coffee field as least CO2 emitter and as the base value for comparison, the percentage increment in CO2 emission out of the sequestered carbon was 7.2% (enset), 15.4% (RTC), 29.3% (crop field) and 46.7% (fallow).Soil deterioration index (%) relative to coffee field for OC, N, P, and K in their order was as follows: enset [− 2.8, 0, 254.5, 23.1], RTC [− 17.7, − 31.6, − 59.5, − 34.6], crop field [− 35, − 47.4,− 79, − 46] and fallow [− 55.7, − 52.6, − 94.5, and − 76.9].

Conclusion

Different fields within smallholder farms exhibited significant variation in amount of carbon sequestered, CO2 emission, soil degradation and soil properties. Thus, climate smart soil management practices that would enhance carbon pool and simultaneously increasing soil quality are suggested e.g., integrated nutrient management.
Health is a political choice: why conduct healthcare research? Value, importance and outcomes to policy makers
Authors: Qoronfleh M. Walid
Published: July 2020

This paper offers the Eastern Mediterranean Region (EMR) viewpoint with Qatar as a case for lasting transformation of health systems. The Qatar case study illustrates the importance of research in the development of health policy. It provides description of a series of projects that have been undertaken in relevant national areas such as autism, dementia, genomics, palliative care and patient safety. The paper discourse draws attention to investment requirement in health research systems to respond to country national health priorities and to strengthen public health policies for improving health and social outcomes by narrowing the gap between research and politics. In short, the discussion highlights the following: i) health is a human right marching towards universal health care, with research underpinning every advance in health care and quality medical services; ii) evidence-based research is emerging as a critical tool to aid policy- and decision-makers; iii) investment necessity in healthcare research/systems to enable responding to a country’s national health priorities and to strengthen public health policies; and iv) need for multi-sectoral involvement of stakeholders to bridge the gap between research and politics. Finally, atypical stakeholders’ engagement and bond to politics is a prerequisite to achieve healthcare objectives and policy success so as to reap the benefits of public health results.
The protein extraction method of Metroxylon sagu leaf for high-resolution two-dimensional gel electrophoresis and comparative proteomics
Authors: Nisar Mehvish , Hussain Hasnain
Published: July 2020

Background

Sago palm (Metroxylon sagu) is a versatile crop and has been hailed as the next viable commodity in Sarawak, Malaysia. Sago palm can thrive in the harsh swampy peat, from low flooded areas to uplands and in acidic to neutral soils. Sago palm has been neglected and unfortunately, very little is known about the sago palm proteome. This study aimed to determine the best protein extraction method of Metroxylon sagu for the two-dimensional gel electrophoresis (2-DE) and its comparative analysis.

Results

To perform good proteome research, the most critical step is to establish a method that gives the best quality of extracted total proteins. Five different protein extraction protocols: polyethylene glycol (PEG) fractionation method, phenol extraction method, TCA–acetone method, the combination of phenol and TCA–acetone extraction method and imidazole method were compared to develop an optimized protein extraction method for two-dimensional gel electrophoresis analysis of Metroxylon sagu. The PEG fractionation method was found to give the most reproducible gels with the highest number of spots and highest protein concentration followed by phenol extraction method. The lowest number of spots was observed in the imidazole method. The PEG fractionation method provides improved resolution and reproducibility of 2-DE and reduces the time required to analyze samples. Partitioning Rubisco by polyethylene glycol (PEG) fractionation provides clearer detection of low abundance protein. Hence, the results from this study propose PEG fractionation as the effective protein extraction method for 2-DE proteomic studies of Metroxylon sagu.

Conclusion

In this study, the PEG fractionation method is considered as the best extraction method for 2-DE proteomic studies of Metroxylon sagu in terms of yield, gel quality, spot numbers, and quantities of proteins.
Temperature, precipitation, ozone pollution, and daily fatal unintentional injuries in Jiangsu Province, China during 2015–2017
Authors: Robertson Leon S. , Zhou Lian , Chen Kai
Published: July 2020

Background

The correlation of unintentional injury mortality to rising temperatures found in several studies could result from changes in behavior that increases exposure to hazards or risk when exposed. Temperature, precipitation and air pollutants may contribute to symptoms and distractions that increase risk or avoidance behavior that reduces risk. This study examines data that allows estimates of the relation of daily maximum temperature, precipitation and ozone pollution to injury mortality risk, each corrected statistically for the correlation with the others.

Methods

Daily data on unintentional injury deaths and exposures to temperature, precipitation and ozone in 9 cities in Jiangsu Province, China during 2015–2017 were analyzed using Poisson regression. The regression estimates were adjusted for weekends, holidays, an anomalous difference in death rates in Nanjing, and population size.

Results

Non transport injury death risk increased substantially in relation to higher temperatures when temperatures were in the moderate range and even more so at temperatures 35 degrees (C) and higher. Transport deaths were related to increasing deaths when temperatures were low but the correlation reversed at higher temperatures. Deaths were lower on rainy days when temperatures were cool and moderate with the exception of non-transport injuries when temperatures were moderate. Higher ozone concentrations were associated with more deaths except when temperatures were low.

Conclusions

The variations in deaths in relation to temperature, precipitation and ozone suggest that people are behaving differently or are in different environments when specific combinations of the predictor variables are prevalent, putting them at greater or less risk. More study of the behaviors and circumstances that result in injury under those conditions is needed.
Testing of support tools for plagiarism detection
Authors: Foltýnek Tomáš , Dlabolová Dita , Anohina-Naumeca Alla , Razı Salim , Kravjar Július , Kamzola Laima , Guerrero-Dib Jean , Çelik Özgür , Weber-Wulff Debora
Published: July 2020

There is a general belief that software must be able to easily do things that humans find difficult. Since finding sources for plagiarism in a text is not an easy task, there is a wide-spread expectation that it must be simple for software to determine if a text is plagiarized or not. Software cannot determine plagiarism, but it can work as a support tool for identifying some text similarity that may constitute plagiarism. But how well do the various systems work? This paper reports on a collaborative test of 15 web-based text-matching systems that can be used when plagiarism is suspected. It was conducted by researchers from seven countries using test material in eight different languages, evaluating the effectiveness of the systems on single-source and multi-source documents. A usability examination was also performed. The sobering results show that although some systems can indeed help identify some plagiarized content, they clearly do not find all plagiarism and at times also identify non-plagiarized material as problematic.