bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fingerprint Spectrophotometric Methods for the Determination of Co-Formulated Otic Solution of Ciprofloxacin and Fluocinolone Acetonide in Their Challengeable Ratio
Authors: Obaydo Reem H. , Alhaj Sakur Amir
Published: September 2019

Six spectrophotometric methods were developed to determine a new single-dose otic solution known as “Otovel®,” which consists of two components: the major one is ciprofloxacin (CIP) and the minor is fluocinolone acetonide (FLU). The ratio of (CIP) and (FLU) in Otovel® is 12 : 1, which is considered a challengeable ratio for UV determination. Thus, spectrum addition as a sample enrichment technique was required for the analysis of (FLU) low concentration. All these methods were capable of resolving the spectra for each component inD0belonging to the fingerprint resolution technique. The former absorptivity centering (a-centering) method was recently developed in 2018; it was effectively applied for its solution of both binary components in Otovel®, while another method, ratio subtraction (RS), is considered as an original resolution method that could be applied to determine only one component in mixtures. However, the other four methods that are related to their original method (RS) were extended ratio subtraction (EXRS), constant multiplication (CM), unified constant subtraction (UCS), and spectrum subtraction (SS). They were also easily applied for completing the quantification of binary mixture drugs present in Otovel®. The linearity ranges were found to be 3.0–15.0 μg/mL for (CIP) and (FLU), respectively. All results acquired from the proposed methods were successfully estimated according to ICH criteria and were statistically compared with official ones where no differences were noticed.
Modelling and Dynamic Analysis of the Spiral Bevel Gear‐Shaft‐Bearing‐Gearbox Coupling System
Authors: Zhu Haimin , Chen Weifang , Zhu Rupeng , Gao Jie , Liao Meijun
Published: September 2019

To accurately study the dynamic characteristics of the spiral bevel gear transmission system in a helicopter tail transmission system, the finite element model of the gear shaft was established by a Timoshenko beam element, and the mechanical model of the spiral bevel gear was created by the lumped mass method. The substructure method is employed to extract the dynamic parameters from the gearbox’s finite element model, and the dynamic model of the spiral bevel gear‐shaft‐bearing‐gearbox coupling system was built according to the interface coordination conditions. In the model, the influences of time‐varying stiffness, a time‐varying transmission error, gearbox flexibility, unbalance excitation, and a flexible shaft and bearing support on the system vibration were taken into account simultaneously. On this basis, the dynamic differential equations of the full coupling system of the spiral bevel gear were derived, and the effects of the gearbox flexibility, the shaft angle, and the unbalance on the dynamic properties of the system were analysed. The results show that the gearbox flexibility can reduce the gear meshing force and bearing force, in which there is a more significant impact on the bearing force. The shaft angle affects the position, size, and direction of the system’s axis trajectory. Meanwhile, the meshing force and the bearing force of the system are also varied because of the various pitch angles of the driving and driven gears under different shaft angles. The unbalance of the gear shaft has an effect on the vibration of the spiral bevel gear transmission system in all directions, wherein the influence on the torsional vibration is the most significant, and the influence increases as the unbalance rises. The unbalance of the gear shaft also affects the meshing force and bearing force, which increases as the rotational speed rises. This research provides a theoretical basis to optimize dynamic performance and reduce the vibration and noise of a spiral bevel gear full coupling system.
Estimation of Elastic Properties of Oil Palm Kernel Shell Concrete by Semianalytical Methods of Homogenisation
Authors: Gibigaye Mohamed , Godonou Fructueux Gildas , Yabi Crespin Prudence , Degan Gerard
Published: September 2019

Despite its importance as one of the key parameters in the design of structural elements, the modulus of elasticity (MoE) is one of the least researched areas in oil palm kernel shell (OPKS) concrete. In the present study, we determined the MoE of OPKS concrete, using micromechanical models based on the classic approaches of homogenisation of Hashin–Shtrikman (HS) and Mori–Tanaka (MT). The MoE values for OPKSC (fcu < 35 MPa and OPKS volume fraction < 42%) estimated using the HS and MT models in the literature showed a good correlation with the experimental values. An empirical linear correlation between the volume fraction of inclusions and the MoE was proposed. The results obtained can enable better control of the mix design of structural concrete based on the proportion of OPKS coarse aggregate in tropical countries producing palm oil.
Characterization and Validation of an “Acute Aerobic Exercise Load” as a Tool to Assess Antioxidative and Anti-inflammatory Nutrition in Healthy Subjects Using a Statistically Integrated Approach in a Comprehensive Clinical Trial
Authors: Kim Youjin , Choi Sungkyoung , Lee Sungyoung , Park Saejong , Kim Ji Yeon , Park Taesung , Kwon Oran
Published: September 2019

The homeostatic challenge may provide unique opportunities for quantitative assessment of the health-promoting effects of nutritional interventions in healthy individuals. Objective. The present study is aimed at characterizing and validating the use of acute aerobic exercise (AAE) on a treadmill at 60% of VO2max for 30 min, in assessing the antioxidative and anti-inflammatory effects of a nutritional intervention. In a controlled, randomized, parallel trial of Korean black raspberry (KBR) (n=24/group), fasting blood and urine samples collected before and following the AAE load at either baseline or 4-week follow-up were analyzed for biochemical markers, 1H-NMR metabolomics, and transcriptomics. The AAE was characterized using the placebo data only, and either the placebo or the treatment data were used in the validation. The AAE load generated a total of 50 correlations of 44 selected markers, based on Pearson’s correlation coefficient analysis of 105 differential markers. Subsequent mapping of selected markers onto the KEGG pathway dataset showed 127 pathways relevant to the AAE load. Of these, 54 pathways involving 18 key targets were annotated to be related to oxidative stress and inflammation. The biochemical responses were amplified with the AAE load as compared to those with no load, whereas, the metabolomic and transcriptomic responses were downgraded. Furthermore, target-pathway network analysis revealed that the AAE load provided more explanations on how KBR exerted antioxidant effects in healthy subjects (29 pathways involving 12 key targets with AAE vs. 12 pathways involving 2 key targets without AAE). This study provides considerable insight into the molecular changes incurred by AAE and furthers our understanding that AAE-induced homeostatic perturbation could magnify oxidative and inflammatory responses, thereby providing a unique opportunity to test functional foods for antioxidant and anti-inflammatory purposes in clinical settings with healthy subjects.
Haplotypes of HTRA1 rs1120638, TIMP3 rs9621532, VEGFA rs833068, CFI rs10033900, ERCC6 rs3793784, and KCTD10 rs56209061 Gene Polymorphisms in Age-Related Macular Degeneration
Authors: Liutkeviciene Rasa , Vilkeviciute Alvita , Gedvilaite Greta , Kaikaryte Kriste , Kriauciuniene Loresa
Published: September 2019

Background. To determine the impact of HTRA1 rs1120638, TIMP3 rs9621532, VEGFA rs833068, CFI rs10033900, ERCC6 rs3793784, and KCTD10 rs56209061 genotypes on the development of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) in the Lithuanian population. Methods. A total of 916 subjects were examined: 309 patients with early AMD, 301 patients with exudative AMD, and 306 healthy controls. The genotyping of HTRA1 rs11200638, TIMP3 rs9621532, VEGFA rs833068, CFI rs10033900, ERCC6 rs3793784, and KCTD10 rs56209061 was carried out using the RT-PCR method. Results. Our study showed that single-nucleotide polymorphisms rs3793784 and rs11200638 were associated with increased odds of early and exudative AMD, and the variant in KCTD10 (rs56209061) was found to be associated with decreased odds of early and exudative AMD development after adjustments for age and gender in early AMD analysis and after adjustments only for age in exudative AMD. The haplotype containing two minor alleles C-A and the G-A haplotype in rs3793784-rs11200638 were statistically significantly associated with an increased risk of exudative AMD development after adjustment for age, while the G-G haplotype showed a protective role against early and exudative AMD and the haplotype C-G in rs3793784-rs11200638 was associated with a decreased risk only of exudative AMD development. Conclusions. Our study identified two markers, rs11200638 and rs3793784, as risk factors for early and exudative AMD, and one marker, rs56209061, as a protective factor for early and exudative AMD development. The haplotypes constructed of rs3793784-rs11200638 were found to be associated with AMD development, as well.
Water Supply Risk Analysis Based on Runoff Sequence Simulation with Change Point under Changing Environment
Authors: Cheng Yafang , Feng Ping , Li Jianzhu , Guo Yuangang , Ren Peizhen
Published: September 2019

This study investigates the water supply risk of Panjiakou reservoir in the Luanhe River basin of China during 1956–2016 under environmental change. Since the monthly runoff series during 1956–2016 is a time series with change points, it is necessary to find a new stochastic streamflow series generation approach to preserve the statistical characteristics of the original series and to refine the reliability of water supply risk analysis. This paper improves a known stochastic streamflow simulation method of previous research to better reflect the characteristics of series with change points. And this paper simulates the monthly runoff series with change point of Panjiakou reservoir during 1956–2016 by three different methods, including Thomas–Fiering model, copula function stochastic simulation method, and copula function stochastic simulation method with the mixed distribution model. Among the three methods, the copula function stochastic simulation method with the mixed distribution model which is improved on the basis of copula function stochastic simulation method in this study performs best in simulating the observed monthly runoff series during 1956–2016, and the water supply risk indices including reliability (time-based and volume-based), resilience, vulnerability, drought risk index (DRI), and sustainability index (SUI) are evaluated for Panjiakou reservoir and analyzed by using the stochastic simulation results. By comparing with the previous studies, all indicators are between the corresponding results of 1956–1979 and 1980–2016 with stationary inflows; it can be seen that change point seriously affects the water supply risk of Panjiakou reservoir. These results make it easy to formulate water supply strategies and schemes in changing environment for water resources managers.
Review on Hybrid Carbon/Flax Composites and Their Properties
Authors: Shamsuyeva Madina , Hansen Ole , Endres Hans-Josef
Published: September 2019

Numerous research studies are carried out in order to investigate various properties and implement the potential of hybrid carbon/flax composites for technical applications. This review aims to present a summary of materials and manufacturing techniques, which are currently used for the fabrication of the carbon/flax composites, and describe the reported tensile, bending, impact, and damping properties of the resulting hybrid materials as well as the attempts to model some of these properties.
The Importance of Histopathological Examination to the Final Diagnosis of Peripheral Odontogenic Tumors: A Case Report of a Peripheral Odontoma
Authors: de Oliveira Marcio Augusto , Reis Bruna , Pallos Debora , Kim Yeon Jung , Braz-Silva Paulo Henrique , Martins Fabiana
Published: September 2019

A 30-year-old Caucasian man presented with an 18-month history of an asymptomatic calcified mass, located on the buccal side of the alveolar ridge. Medical records did not present any underlying conditions. On intraoral examination, the lesion was located on the right side of the maxilla, showing mucosal fenestration with mineralized tissue measuring approximately 1 cm in diameter. Radiographic examination showed multiple radiopaque masses. Incisional biopsy was performed, and histological analysis revealed a presence of enamel matrix, dentin, and cementum, resembling tooth-like structures. Surgical removal was offered after the diagnostic confirmation of peripheral odontoma, but the patient refused because of the asymptomatic nature of the lesion.
Successful Modified Therapy in a Patient with Probable Infection-Associated Hemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis
Authors: Kay Carl L. , Rendo Matthew J. , Gonzales Paul , Beganovic Sead G. , Czader Magdalena
Published: September 2019

Hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) is a rare, hyperinflammatory syndrome characterized by clinical signs and symptoms of extreme inflammation. In adults, HLH is typically a complication of infections, autoimmune diseases, and malignancies. While the disease is often fatal, classic management of HLH revolves around early diagnosis and initiation of protocolized therapy. We present a case of a previously healthy 56-year-old female who developed distributive shock requiring intubation, vasopressors, and continuous venovenous hemofiltration. In the setting of multiple infectious syndromes, severe cytopenias, and rising direct hyperbilirubinemia, her diagnosis of HLH was confirmed. Therapy was initiated with dexamethasone and two doses of reduced-intensity etoposide based on the patient’s clinical course. Over the next few weeks, she continued to improve on dexamethasone monotherapy and has maintained remission up to the present with complete resolution of her cytopenias and return of baseline renal function. Our case highlights the variability in the management of probable infection-associated HLH (IHLH) with a good patient outcome. We demonstrate the potential to treat IHLH with partial protocols and minimal chemotherapeutics.
Formation Mechanism and Properties of Foam-Structured ZnO Films Prepared Using Catalyst-Free Carbothermal Method
Authors: Choi Seok Cheol , Kim Hong Tak , Jang Taehun , Sohn Sang Ho
Published: September 2019

Foam-structured ZnO films were formed on c-axis Al2O3 substrates by using a catalyst-free carbothermal method. The morphological properties of the films strongly depended on their substrate position in the reactor, implying that the quantity of Zn vapor transported played a crucial role in determining the film structure. The formation mechanism of the films is proposed to be as follows: with increased transport of Zn vapor, vaporized Zn elements transformed into liquid Zn nanoparticles, and the liquid Zn elements on the rods promoted the new nucleation of ZnO nanorods. The repeated growth of ZnO rods at the nucleation sites led to the foam-like structure. The as-formed foam-structured ZnO films exhibited the wurtzite crystal structure, and the atomic composition ratio of Zn to O was 1 : 0.85. The main photoluminescence emissions were centered at 3.3 and 2.5 eV, and they were attributed to band-to-band and defect-related transitions, respectively.
The Role of Autologous Dermal Micrografts in Regenerative Surgery: A Clinical Experimental Study
Authors: Tresoldi Marco Mario , Graziano Antonio , Malovini Alberto , Faga Angela , Nicoletti Giovanni
Published: September 2019

The aim of the study was the objective assessment of the effectiveness of a microfragmented dermal extract obtained with Rigenera™ technology in promoting the wound healing process in an in vivo homogeneous experimental human acute surgical wound model. The study included 20 patients with 24 acute postsurgical soft tissue loss and a planned sequential two-stage repair with a dermal substitute and an autologous split-thickness skin graft. Each acute postsurgical soft tissue loss was randomized to be treated either with an Integra® dermal substitute enriched with the autologous dermal micrografts obtained with Rigenera™ technology (group A—Rigenera™ protocol) or with an Integra® dermal substitute only (group B—control). The reepithelialization rate in the wounds was assessed in both groups at 4 weeks through digital photography with the software “ImageJ.” The dermal cell suspension enrichment with the Rigenera™ technology was considered effective if the reepithelialized area was higher than 25% of the total wound surface as this threshold was considered far beyond the expected spontaneous reepithelialization rate. In the Rigenera™ protocol group, the statistical analysis failed to demonstrate any significant difference vs. the controls. The old age of the patients likely influenced the outcome as the stem cell regenerative potential is reduced in the elderly. A further explanation for the unsatisfying results of our trial might be the inadequate amount of dermal stem cells used to enrich the dermal substitutes. In our study, we used a 1 : 200 donor/recipient site ratio to minimize donor site morbidity. The gross dimensional disparity between the donor and recipient sites and the low concentration of dermal mesenchymal stromal stem cells might explain the poor epithelial proliferative boost observed in our study. A potential option in the future might be preconditioning of the dermal stem cell harvest with senolytic active principles that would fully enhance their regenerative potential. This trial is registered with trial protocol number NCT03912675.
Deep Convolutional Neural Network‐Based Structural Damage Localization and Quantification Using Transmissibility Data
Authors: Cofre-Martel Sergio , Kobrich Philip , Lopez Droguett Enrique , Meruane Viviana
Published: September 2019

Damage diagnosis has become a valuable tool for asset management, enhanced by advances in sensor technologies that allows for system monitoring and providing massive amount of data for use in health state diagnosis. However, when dealing with massive data, manual feature extraction is not always a suitable approach as it is labor intensive requiring the intervention of domain experts with knowledge about the relevant variables that govern the system and their impact on its degradation process. To address these challenges, convolutional neural networks (CNNs) have been recently proposed to automatically extract features that best represent a system’s degradation behavior and are a promising and powerful technique for supervised learning with recent studies having shown their advantages for feature identification, extraction, and damage quantification in machine health assessment. Here, we propose a novel deep CNN‐based approach for structural damage location and quantification, which operates on images generated from the structure’s transmissibility functions to exploit the CNNs’ image processing capabilities and to automatically extract and select relevant features to the structure’s degradation process. These feature maps are fed into a multilayer perceptron to achieve damage localization and quantification. The approach is validated and exemplified by means of two case studies involving a mass‐spring system and a structural beam where training data are generated from finite element models that have been calibrated on experimental data. For each case study, the models are also validated using experimental data, where results indicate that the proposed approach delivers satisfactory performance and thus being an appropriate tool for damage diagnosis.
Noninvasive Mapping of the Electrophysiological Substrate in Cardiac Amyloidosis and Its Relationship to Structural Abnormalities
Authors: Orini Michele , Graham Adam J. , Martinez‐Naharro Ana , Andrews Christopher M. , de Marvao Antonio , Statton Ben , Cook Stuart A. , O'Regan Declan P. , Hawkins Philip N. , Rudy Yoram , Fontana Marianna , Lambiase Pier D.
Published: September 2019

Background

The relationship between structural pathology and electrophysiological substrate in cardiac amyloidosis is unclear. Differences between light‐chain (
AL
) and transthyretin (
ATTR
) cardiac amyloidosis may have prognostic implications.

Methods and Results

ECG
imaging and cardiac magnetic resonance studies were conducted in 21 cardiac amyloidosis patients (11
AL
and 10
ATTR
). Healthy volunteers were included as controls. With respect to
ATTR
,
AL
patients had lower amyloid volume (51.0/37.7 versus 73.7/16.4 mL,
P
=0.04), lower myocardial cell volume (42.6/19.1 versus 58.5/17.2 mL,
P
=0.021), and higher T1 (1172/64 versus 1109/80 ms,
P
=0.022) and T2 (53.4/2.9 versus 50.0/3.1 ms,
P
=0.003).
ECG
imaging revealed differences between cardiac amyloidosis and control patients in virtually all conduction‐repolarization parameters. With respect to
ATTR
,
AL
patients had lower epicardial signal amplitude (1.07/0.46 versus 1.83/1.26 mV,
P
=0.026), greater epicardial signal fractionation (
P
=0.019), and slightly higher dispersion of repolarization (187.6/65 versus 158.3/40 ms,
P
=0.062). No significant difference between
AL
and
ATTR
patients was found using the standard 12‐lead
ECG
. T1 correlated with epicardial signal amplitude (cc=−0.78), and extracellular volume with epicardial signal fractionation (cc=0.48) and repolarization time (cc=0.43). Univariate models based on single features from both cardiac magnetic resonance and
ECG
imaging classified
AL
and
ATTR
patients with an accuracy of 70% to 80%.

Conclusions

In this exploratory study cardiac amyloidosis was associated with ventricular conduction and repolarization abnormalities, which were more pronounced in
AL
than in
ATTR
. Combined
ECG
imaging–cardiac magnetic resonance analysis supports the hypothesis that additional mechanisms beyond infiltration may contribute to myocardial damage in
AL
amyloidosis. Further studies are needed to assess the clinical impact of this approach.
Adsorption and Photovoltaic Properties of Lac-Color on TiO2 for Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells
Authors: Kim Tae Young , Jeon Nam Jin , Jung Ho Young , Kim Ji Hyun , Cho Sung Yong
Published: September 2019

The adsorption and photovoltaic characteristics of Lac-color on TiO2 thin film for dye-sensitized solar cells were investigated. The adsorption isotherms of Lac-color on TiO2 thin film could be represented by the Langmuir equation. The adsorption capacity of Lac-color
on TiO2 thin film increased with increasing temperature. The photovoltaic conversion efficiencies of Lac-color increased with increasing amount of dye adsorbed on TiO2 photo electrode. The energy conversion efficiency of Lac-color was 0.12%.
Transferrin Modified Dioscin Loaded PEGylated Liposomes: Characterization and In Vitro Antitumor Effect
Authors: Wang Yuanyuan , Yang Yining , Yu Yibin , Li Jinyu , Pan Weisan , Yang Xinggang , Zhang Zhiran , Jiang Shuang , Yang Xiaobo , Wang Xiaobo
Published: September 2019

In this study, a novel transferrin modified liposomal dioscin was prepared by the film dispersion method. The transferrin modified dioscin loaded liposomes (Tf-Lip/Dio) were near-spherical in morphology and had an average particle size of 140.07±1.33 nm, a narrow polydispersity
index of <0.2 and a relatively stable zeta potential of -23.7±1.16 mV. The drug entrapment efficiency (EE) and drug loading (DL) of Tf-Lip/Dio were 88.94±1.02% and 4.16±0.05%, respectively. Tf-Lip/Dio exhibited a sustained release characterization of approximately 30%
of the total dioscin content after 72 h at 37 °C. Tf-Lip/Dio showed higher cytotoxic efficacy after incubation for 24 h in both HeLa cells and HepG2 cells than in nonmodified liposomes. The enhanced antitumor activity of Tf-Lip/Dio might be due to the increased intracellular uptake, which
was corroborated by laser scanning confocal microscopy and flow cytometry. Furthermore, hemolysis experiments preliminarily verified the safety of its intravenous injection. Overall, this study demonstrates Tf-Lip/Dio to be a favorable delivery vehicle for dioscin in future cancer therapy.
Morphological, Optical and Electrical Characterization of the Interfaces in Fullerene-Porphyrin Thin Films
Authors: Alvarez-Zauco E. , Sobral H. , Martínez-Loran E.
Published: September 2019

The role of the interfaces on the optoelectronical properties of porphyrin-fullerene composites has been studied by means of ultraviolet-visible (UV-Vis) and Raman spectroscopy, atomic force microscopy (AFM) and electric conductivity measurements. A simple method of synthesis of donor–
acceptor complexes has been performed by subsequent deposition of C60 fullerene and tetraphenylporphyrin (H2TPP) thin films, using physical vapor deposition (PVD) on a (100) silicon substrate. UV-Vis spectra showed that the interaction of π-orbitals leads to
a more ordering for the dipole moments arrangement and the π-orbitals overlapping between C60 and H2TPP molecules. Besides, Raman spectra presented intensity changes at 960 and 1000 cm-1, both related to the vibration of the pyrrole ring and the rocking
of the H on the C atoms within the macrocycle. Therefore, it can be expected that the interface C60-H2TPP should have a main role in the electric response of the multilayer films. The measurements of surface conductivity indicated that interface has specific contribution,
and the value of surface conductivity is enhanced by charge delocalization mechanisms occur by π–π stacking interactions. It was found that the transversal conductivity of 3-layer films was enhanced by a factor of 4 in comparison to 2-layer film, due to charge transfer
mechanisms occur in the junctions that could extend the diffusion length of the charge carriers. Finally, the interface generated between C60 and H2TPP films, without any linking molecule, enhance charge transport mechanism through the films.
Effect of Al, Ti and Cr Doping on Vanadium Dioxide (VO2) Analyzed by Density Function Theory (DFT) Method
Authors: Zhu Hongmei , Zhang Zhengjie , Jiang Xuchuan
Published: September 2019

Density function theory (DFT) method was developed and applied for fundamentally understanding the doping effect of various metals (Al, Ti and Cr) on vanadium dioxide (VO2). The substitution doping of Al, Ti and Cr in VO2 could lead to significant changes in electronic
structure, band gap and optical property. Different from physical experiments, the DFT method could be utilized for fundamental understandings at an atomic scale. It was found via DFT calculations that: (i) Al doping caused a slightly distorted octahedron in monoclinic VO2(M), and
narrowed the band gap of VO2(M) due to the upward shift of the valence band (VB), while Cr doping narrowed the band gap because of the downward shift of the conduction band (CB); (ii) Ti doping slightly widened the band gap of VO2(M); and (iii) the optical reflectivity
of VO2(M) decreased after substitution doping low-valent metals (e.g., Al). This study will be beneficial for designing and controlling elemental doping to obtain metal oxide nanocomposites with unique band gap and electronic structure for thermochromic energy saving applications.
Triggered Nanoexplosions of Pd Hollow Spheres
Authors: Shervani Suboohi , Gupta Anshul , Sivakumar Sri , Balani Kantesh , Subramaniam Anandh
Published: September 2019

Gas filled Pd nanocontainers can serve as model nanochambers for reaction and phase equilibria studies. In the current study, palladium hollow spheres (PdHS) filled with oxygen are brought in intimate contact with hydrogen filled PdHS at room temperature (with internal pressure in both
the spheres at 20 bar). The molecular hydrogen gets chemisorbed in the Pd shell and further diffuses into the oxygen filled sphere. The rapid reaction of hydrogen with oxygen in the inner wall of the oxygen filled sphere leads to a nanoexplosion, with the formation of water. This explosion
results in either the complete breakage of the nanoshell or the formation of connected shells via the rupture of the internal wall connecting the shells. Transmission electron microscopy and Raman spectroscopy have been used to establish the sequence of processes. Further, the water in the
nanochambers is cooled below sub-zero temperature to crystallize ice. This phenomenon is observed for the first time at room temperature.
In Vitro Investigation of Therapeutic Potential of Bare Magnetite (Fe3O4) Nanoparticles (≤100 ppm) on Hepatocellular Carcinoma Cells
Authors: Gokduman Kurtulus , Gok Asiye
Published: September 2019

Significant ROS production capability of bare iron oxide nanoparticles in safe doses for healthy cells offers an interesting therapeutic window for cancer. In this context, the aim of the current study is to investigate therapeutic potential of the synthesized magnetite (Fe3O4)
nanoparticles (~80 nm) as attractive vehicles for biomedical applications on hepatocellular carcinoma cells (HepG2). To investigate their time (0–72 h) and dose (0–100 μg/ml) dependent effect on physiological state (proliferation/ cytotoxicity) and mitochondrial activity
of the tumor cells, xCELLigence system and MTT assay were used, respectively. Both 50 and 100 μg/ml of nanoparticle treatment induced significant (p < 0.01) increases in ROS production in HepG2 cells; however, ~4-day real-time cell analysis illustrated that all concentrations
of the nanoparticles caused significant (p < 0.01) increases in proliferation of the tumor cells from 4 h after the treatment to the end of the analysis. While 50 and 100 μg/ml of nanoparticles caused significant deteriorations in the mitochondrial activity of the tumor
cells in the case of 24 h-(p < 0.05 and p < 0.01, respectively) and 72 h-treatment (p < 0.01); 24 h-treatment of 100 μg/ml of nanoparticles and 72 h-treatment of 50 and 100 μg/ml of nanoparticles caused significant increases in the mitochondrial activity
of the tumor cells (p < 0.01) under static magnetic field (1.35 T). Although the synthesized magnetite nanoparticles have not therapeutic potential alone on HepG2 cells in doses safe for healthy cells, the results of the current study are illuminating for future magnetite nanoparticle-based
biomedical applications and combination cancer therapy containing magnetite nanoparticles.
Ag–Cu Bimetallic Nanoparticles as Efficient Oxygen Reduction Reaction Electrocatalysts in Alkaline Media
Authors: Verma Alkadevi , Gupta Rajeev Kumar , Shukla Madhulata , Malviya Manisha , Sinha Indrajit
Published: September 2019

The alkaline medium oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) activities of Ag–Cu bimetallic nanoparticles (BNPs), consisting of neighboring Ag and Cu domains, were studied and compared with those of pure Ag and Cu nanoparticles prepared by the same polyol route. Three variations of Ag–Cu
BNPs viz. Ag–Cu (4:1), Ag–Cu (2:1), Ag–Cu (1:1) BNPs were considered. The electrocatalytic performances of these nanoparticles were investigated by using different techniques, such as cyclic voltammetry (CV) and linear sweep voltammograms (LSV). The Ag–Cu bimetallics
demonstrated synergistic ORR electrocatalytic activity compared to pure Ag or Cu. Optimum values of these parameters were observed for Ag–Cu (4:1) BNPs. According to LSV, the reduction peak position is at lower applied potential and showed higher intensity for the Ag–Cu (4:1) as
compared to Ag–Cu (2:1) and Ag–Cu (1:1) BNPs. Density Functional Theory (DFT) calculations show that charge transfer from Cu to Ag (in the bimetallic nanoparticles) results in their stronger oxygen interaction and water activation properties relative to that of pure Ag nanoparticles.
Adsorption of Cr(VI) from Aqueous Solution by Ethylenediaminetetraacetic Acid-Chitosan-Modified Metal-Organic Framework
Authors: Deng Yu-Ying , Xiao Xin-Feng , Wang Dan , Han Bo , Gao Yu , Xue Jian-Liang
Published: September 2019

Cu-BTC was synthesised by hydrothermal method in this study to adsorb and remove the toxic heavy metal hexavalent chromium Cr(VI) in water. The EDTA-chitosan/Cu-BTC was prepared by the surface modification of Cu-BTC with EDTA-modified chitosan. The initial concentration effects of adsorbed
chromium solution, adsorbent dosage, adsorption time, adsorption temperature and pH of chromium solution on adsorption capacity were estimated using the single-factor optimisation experiment. Results show that the adsorption capacity of the modified composite was higher than that of Cu-BTC.
Cu-BTC and EDTA-chitosan/Cu-BTC exhibited significant adsorption of Cr(VI) under acidic conditions in water and basically independent of temperature. Their adsorption processes conformed with the pseudo-second-order model. The Langmuir adsorption isotherm model obtained the adsorption isotherm,
which indicated that the adsorption process was single molecule adsorption. Isotherm fitting obtained the maximum adsorption amounts of Cr(VI) for Cu-BTC and EDTA-chitosan/Cu-BTC at 27.32 and 46.51 mg·g-1, respectively. Factor and principal component analyses show that the
main factors affecting the adsorption of Cr(VI) in the EDTA-chitosan/Cu-BTC composites are pH, initial concentration and adsorption time. Therefore, EDTA-chitosan-modified Cu-BTC was a more feasible metal-organic framework material than Cu-BTC because of better adsorption performance, which
can be used for adsorption removal of Cr(VI) in water.
Ultra-Shallow Doping of GaAs with Mg, Cr, Mn and B Using Plasma Stimulated Room-Temperature Diffusion
Authors: Li Lei , Hou Ruixiang , Zhang Lili , Chen Yihang , Yao L. , Ma Nongnong , He Youqin , Chen Xiao , Xu Wanjin , Qin G. G.
Published: September 2019

It is demonstrated that Mg, Cr, Mn and B can be doped close to GaAs surface by plasma doping without external bias at room temperature (RT). The process only takes a few minutes, and impurity densities in the range of 1018–1021/cm3 can be achieved
with doping depths about twenty nanometers. The experiment results are analyzed and the physical mechanism is tentatively explained as follows: during the doping process, impurity ion implantation under plasma sheath voltage takes place, simultaneously, plasma stimulates RT diffusion of impurity
atom, which plays the main role in the doping process. The enhanced RT diffusion coefficients of Mg, Cr, Mn and B in GaAs are all in the order of magnitude of 10-15 cm2sec-1. This is reported for the first time among all kinds of plasma assisted doping methods.
Glycothermal Synthesis of VO2(B) Nanoparticles for Gas Sensing Application
Authors: Zhu Hongmei , Zhang Zhengjie , Jiang Xuchuan
Published: September 2019

This study represents a facile but efficient glycothermal method for synthesis of vanadium dioxide, VO2(B) nanoparticles with various geometries from spheres to rods, flakes or their agglomeration structures, by controlling reaction conditions (e.g., vanadium resources, reducing
agents and surfactants). The as-prepared VO2(B) nanoparticles were characterized in microstructure and composition, and also examined in terms of gas sensing performance. It was found that the VO2(B) nanoparticles exhibit a good sensitivity towards alcohols (ethanol,
isopropanol, and butanol) and acetone at the optimised operating temperature of 300 °C. The gas sensing performance was further compared with other vanadium oxides investigated previously, such as V2O5, Na1.08V3O8. The plausible gas
sensing mechanism of the as-prepared nanoparticles was discussed in detail. This study would expand the family of vanadium oxides that can be made as potential sensors for applications in detecting environmental safety and human health.
High Sensitivity NO2 Gas Sensor Based on 3D WO3 Microflowers Assembled by Numerous Nanoplates
Authors: Cao Pei-Jiang , Li Meng , Rao Ch. N. , Han Shun , Xu Wang-Ying , Fang Ming , Liu Xin-Ke , Zeng Yu-Xiang , Liu Wen-Jun , Zhu De-Liang , Lu You-Ming
Published: September 2019

Tungsten oxide microflowers (WO3 MFs) were fabricated by a simple hydrothermal process through adjusting the pH of the solution by HCl. These MFs possess the outer diameters of about 2 μm and are composed of numerous nanoplates with the average pore size of 10.9
nm. Chemiresistive activity of as-fabricated WO3 MFs sensor was attempted towards oxidizing and reducing target gases, revealing a superior selectivity to NO2 with a maximum response of 22.95 (2 ppm NO2) @105 °C compared to other target gases. One of the
key features of as-fabricatedWO3 MFs sensor is the lower detection limit of 125 ppb and operating temperature of 105 °C to NO2 with better reproducibility, signifying commercial prospective of the developed sensor materials. Finally, the gas sensing mechanism of WO3
MFs sensor has been proposed.
Effect of 2-(dimethylamino) Ethyl Methacrylate on Nanostructure and Properties of pH and Temperature Sensitive Cellulose-Based Hydrogels
Authors: Jiang Ping , Chen Shaowei , Lv Linda , Ji Hongmin , Li Gen , Jiang Zhechao , Wu Yiqiang
Published: September 2019

The novel double responsive cellulose/poly 2-(dimethylamino) ethyl methacrylate (PDMAEMA) hydrogel was synthesized via in situ free radical polymerization. The results from light transmittance measurements, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), mechanical property testing as well
as swelling experiments demonstrated that DMAEMA played a significant impact on in hydrogel’s nanostructure.With increasing DMAEMA concentration, the transparency of hydrogels dropped and texture became softer. The incorporation of relatively hard cellulose and increase in crosslink
density significantly enhanced 3D network structure of hydrogel. The tensile strength, compression and bending capabilities of the composite responsive hydrogels were fine with the DMAEMA in a certain range. When the DMAEMA concentration increased to 6 g/g(cellulose), the mechanical
strength decreased noticeably. An increase in DMAEMA concentration resulted in a faster initial swelling rate and higher equilibrium swelling ratio. Further, three-dimensional structure and increase of DMAEMA concentration can also improve pH and temperature response sensitivity of hydrogels.
Thus, the mechanical, swelling and responsive properties of hydrogel could be adjusted by the DMAEMA and polymerization modes.
Different Dimensions of g-C3N4 Nanomaterials on Sulphur Cathode for Lithium Sulfur Batteries
Authors: Yu Juan , Ma Nani , Peng Jiaxin , Dang Yangyang , Zheng Dongdong , Cheng Wudan , Liang Lisi , Du Xiaoqing , Ouyang Min , Zhao Fang
Published: September 2019

Lithium sulfur batteries (Li–S) have been deemed to be the promising energy-storage systems. Nevertheless, the shuttle effect caused by diffusion of polysulfides limit their application. In this work, the different dimensions of g-C3N4 nanomaterials (2D g-C3N4
nanosheets and 3D g-C3N4 nanomesh) were doped in S electrode. Because of the large specific surface area of 3D g-C3N4 nanomesh and strong chemical adsorption of polysulfides can provide better effect for inhibition of shuttling effect and its proper
electron passage make electrochemical kinetics of lithium–sulfur battery enhanced. The discharge specific capacity of the 3D g-C3N4 battery is up to 731 mAh/g and longer cycling performance with 540 mAh/g after 180 cycles. This experiment paves the way forward for
the application of g-C3N4 on Li–S batteries.
Hexadecylpyridinium Chloride Mediated Hydrothermal Synthesis of NaYF4:Yb, Er Nanocrystal and Their Luminescent Properties
Authors: Li Na , Tan Haihu , Xie Shaowen , Liu Simin , Tong Chao , Ouyang Min , Xu Lijian
Published: September 2019

Upconversion nanocrystals with uniform size and hydrophilic surface have potential applications in biological medical engineering. In this study, hydrophilic NaYF4:Yb, Er nanospheres were synthesized via hexadecylpyridinium chloride (CPC) mediated hydrothermal process. The
synthesized NaYF4:Yb, Er upconversion nanospheres (UCNSs) were characterized by various characterization methods. Results showed that the synthesized UCNSs exhibited a uniform sphere-like structure with average diameter of ~250 nm. The surface of UCNSs was captured by CPC molecule
indicating hydrophilic properties of UCNSs. The spherical UCNSs composed of mixed phase (α+β) NaYF4 nanocrystals. This is the novel study for synthesis of NaYF4:Ln3+ crystal employing CPC as ligand. Moreover, the effect of CPC concentration on
synthesis of UCNSs was investigated by comparatively studying morphology, crystal phase and luminescent properties of desired sample prepared under different experimental conditions. It was found that high concentrations of CPC ligands were more favorable for forming NaYF4 crystal
nanospheres with morphology that is more regular, have smoother surface, with higher crystallinity and better upconversion fluorescent properties. The possible growing mechanism was proposed and growing of NaYF4:Yb, Er nanospheres followed the classical Ostwald ripening process.
Removal of Pb(II) Ions from Aqueous Solutions by Spherical Nanocomposites Synthesized Through Immobilization of Paecilomyces lilacinus in Silica Nanoparticles Coated with Ca-Alginate
Authors: Ruan Xiaofang , Li Ruyi , Ding Zhexu , Luo Jun , Liu Qilin , Deng Chao , Li Ding
Published: September 2019

In the present study, a novel microbial nanocomposite “Paecilomyces lilacinus-silica nanoparticlescalcium-alginate beads” (P. lilacinus-SN-Cal-Alg) were synthesized and their high efficiency for removing Pb(II) ions was demonstrated in aqueous solution. P.
lilacinus-SN-Cal-Alg beads before and after the adsorption of Pb(II) were characterized by FT-IR, SEM-EDS, and XPS analyses. The adsorption capacity of Pb(II) by P. lilacinus-SN-Cal-Alg beads was analyzed in aqueous solution. For comparison, the adsorption capacity of Pb(II) by
another type of microbial composites, namely, P. lilacinus-Cal-Alg beads, without addition of silica nanoparticles, was also studied in parallel. Lastly, the equilibrium data in adsorption process were examined by both Langmuir and Freundlich isotherm models to evaluate adsorption mechanism.
The results showed that an excellent removal efficiency of Pb(II) in aqueous solution (85.54%) was obtained at initial concentration of 200 mg/L by using the P. lilacinus-SN-Cal-Alg beads. Meanwhile, they exhibited the better adsorption capacity for Pb(II) than P. lilacinus-Cal-Alg
beads. The adsorption process by P. lilacinus-SN-Cal-Alg beads was best described by the Langmuir model indicating that monolayer adsorption of Pb(II) ions takes place on the beads surfaces and showed that its maximum adsorption capacity was 282.49 mg/g.
Bone Morphogenetic Protein 1 Targeting COL1A1 and COL1A2 to Regulate the Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition Process of Colon Cancer SW620 Cells
Authors: Zhu Xijia , Luo Xishun , Jiang Shiyu , Wang Haipeng
Published: September 2019

Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is an important factor in promoting the metastasis of colon cancer, which leads to clinical incurability. It has been found that bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) are closely related to EMT and the prognoses of most malignant tumors, including
colon cancer tumors. However, the effects and mechanisms of BMP1 on the EMT of colon cancer are not yet clear. To explore the effects and mechanisms of BMP1 on the EMT of colon cancer, a BMP1 overexpression plasmid vector was used to interfere with SW620 cells and real-time fluorescence quantitative
RNA and western blotting were used to detect the effects of BMP1 on the transcription and translation of COL1A1 and COL1A2 genes, as well as EMT-related genes, including beta-catenin, vimentin, and E-cadherin (E-Cad) genes in SW620 cells. MTT assay and Transwell techniques were used to detect
the effects of BMP1 on the proliferation and migration of SW620 cells. The results demonstrate that BMP1 expression in SW620 cells is significantly lower than that in HCoEpiC cells, which promotes the expression of COL1A1 and COL1A2. Additionally, the expression of genes related to EMT, including
beta-catenin and vimentin, increased, whereas E-Cad expression decreased. This difference was significant, which led to an increase in cell viability and the number of migrating cells in SW620 cells. Based on the overexpression of BMP1, the expression of COL1A1 and COL1A2 in SW620 was inhibited,
which inhibited the process of EMT. Specifically, vimentin expression decreased, and E-Cad and beta-catenin expression increased. Additionally, SW620 cell viability decreased and migration ability decreased. Therefore, it can be concluded that the absence of BMP1 promotes the expression of
COL1A and COL1A2 in colon cancer and promotes the process of EMT. Increasing the expression of BMP1 can inhibit the process of EMT in colon cancer, thereby inhibiting the migration of tumors.
Design, validation and performance of aspartate aminotransferase- and lactate dehydrogenase-reporting algorithms for haemolysed specimens including correction within quality specifications
Authors: Colak Selcuk , Tasdemir Onur , van der Schaaf Marianne , Opdam Frans , van den Noort Vincent , van den Broek Daan , van Rossum Huub H
Published: September 2019

Background

In vitro haemolysis is a major operational challenge for medical laboratories. A new experimental design was used to investigate under what conditions algorithms could be designed to report either quantitative or qualitative aspartate aminotransferase and lactate dehydrogenase results outside the manufacturer’s haemolysis specifications. Quantitative corrections were required to meet prespecified quality specifications.

Methods

Twenty-five patient samples were used to design reporting algorithms and another 41 patient samples were used to validate the algorithms. Aspartate aminotransferase, lactate dehydrogenase and haemolysis index were determined using a Cobas 6000 analyser (Roche diagnostics, Mannheim, Germany). Correction factors were determined, and the accuracy of the correction was investigated. Reporting algorithms were designed based on (i) the manufacturer’s cut-off for the haemolysis index, (ii) corrections within the total allowable error specification and (iii) qualitative reporting based on obtained results. The impact of the reporting algorithms was retrospectively determined by recalculating six months of aspartate aminotransferase and lactate dehydrogenase results.

Results

No correction for aspartate aminotransferase/lactate dehydrogenase was possible for results below the upper reference interval limit, while results equal to or greater than the upper reference interval limit could, up to mild haemolysis, be corrected within the total error criterion. All samples generated from the validated patient cohort fulfilled the set criteria. The algorithms allowed reporting 88.5% and 85.9% of otherwise unreported aspartate aminotransferase and lactate dehydrogenase results, respectively.

Conclusions

An approach is presented that allows to generate and validate reporting algorithms for aspartate aminotransferase and lactate dehydrogenase compatible with prespecified quality specifications. The designed algorithms resulted in a significant reduction of otherwise unreported aspartate aminotransferase and lactate dehydrogenase results.