bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
In Situ Growth of Ca2+-Based Metal–Organic Framework on CaSiO3/ABS/TPU 3D Skeleton for Methylene Blue Removal
Authors: Liu Zhen , Xia Xinshu , Li Wei , Xiao Liren , Sun Xiaoli , Luo Fubin , Chen Qinghua , Qian Qingrong
Published: October 2020

The work reports a novel strategy for combining polymers and metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) into composites for adsorption applications. Calcium silicate (CaSiO3) was introduced into acrylonitrile butadiene styrene/thermoplastic polyurethane (ABS/TPU) alloy, and the CaSiO3/ABS/TPU skeleton was fabricated by 3D printing technology. The Ca-MOF was directly loaded on the surface of acetone-etched 3D skeleton by in-situ growth method. The obtained 3D skeleton was characterized and the performance of methylene blue (MB) adsorption was determined. It is clear that Ca-MOF is successfully loaded on the surface of 3D skeleton due to the presence of CaSiO3. The MB adsorption ratios of the solutions with initial concentrations of 50, 100 and 200 mg/L at the equilibrium time (5 h) are 88%, 88% and 80%, respectively, revealing good MB adsorption performance of the 3D skeleton. The MB adsorption ratio remains 70% at six runs of adsorption–desorption experiment, indicating the excellent recovering property of the skeleton. The results show that the prepared CaSiO3/ABS/TPU 3D skeleton is a candidate adsorbent for printing and dyeing effluent treatment.
The Mechanism of Creep during Crack Propagation of a Superalloy under Fatigue–Creep–Environment Interactions
Authors: Wang Minqing , Du Jinhui , Deng Qun
Published: October 2020

In this study, we examine the mechanism of fatigue-crack propagation in 718Plus superalloy at 704 °C under fatigue–creep–environment interactions, in this case, a new turbine disc material used in aero-engines at high temperatures. The effect of creep on the fatigue-crack propagation of the superalloy at high temperature was also researched. There was an unusual inhibitory effect on the propagation of fatigue cracks in 718Plus alloy, in which the propagation rate of fatigue cracks decreased with the increase of creep time through exploration of dwell-fatigue-crack growth (DFCG) test with different creep times. In particular, under lower stress intensity factor range (ΔK) conditions, the fatigue-crack growth rate with a 90 s hold-time was one order of magnitude lower than that with a 5 s hold-time. Conversely, the gap between the two DFCGs gradually decreased with the increase of ΔK and the creep effect became less apparent. The mechanism of crack propagation in 718Plus alloy under two creep conditions was investigated from a viewpoint of the microstructure, oxidation rate at high temperature and crack path morphology under different conditions.
Hydrogen Plasma Treatment of Aligned Multi-Walled Carbon Nanotube Arrays for Improvement of Field Emission Properties
Authors: Gorodetskiy Dmitriy V. , Gusel’nikov Artem V. , Kurenya Alexander G. , Smirnov Dmitry A. , Bulusheva Lyubov G. , Okotrub Alexander V.
Published: October 2020

Vertically aligned carbon nanotube (CNT) arrays show potential for the development of planar low-voltage emission cathodes. The characteristics of cathodes can be improved by modifying their surface, e.g., by hydrogen plasma treatment, as was performed in this work. The surface of multi-walled CNT arrays grown on silicon substrates from toluene and ferrocene using catalytic chemical vapor deposition was treated in a high-pressure (~104 Pa) microwave reactor. The structure, composition, and current-voltage characteristics of the arrays were studied before and after hydrogen plasma treatment at various power values and durations. CNT tips were destroyed and catalytic iron was released from the CNT channels. The etching rate was influenced by iron particles that formed on the array surface. The lower emission threshold in the plasma-treated arrays than in the initial sample is explained by the amplification factor of the local electric field increasing due to graphene structures of unfolded nanotube layers that formed at the CNT tips.
Anticorrosion Coated Stainless Steel as Durable Support for C-N-TiO2 Photo Catalyst Layer
Authors: Mouele Emile Salomon Massima , Dinu Mihaela , Parau Anca Constantina , Vladescu Alina , Zar Myint Myo Tay , Kyaw Htet Htet , Al-Sabahi Jamal , Al-Abri Mohammed , Dobretsov Sergey , Al Belushi Mohammed A. , Al-Mamari Rahma , Braic Mariana , Petrik Leslie Felicia
Published: October 2020

The development of durable photocatalytic supports resistant in harsh environment has become challenging in advanced oxidation processes (AOPs) focusing on water and wastewater remediation. In this study, stainless steel (SS), SS/Ti (N,O) and SS/Cr-N/Cr (N,O) anticorrosion layers on SS meshes were dip-coated with sol gel synthesised C-N-TiO2 photo catalysts pyrolysed at 350 °C for 105 min, using a heating rate of 50 °C/min under N2 gas. The supported C-N-TiO2 films were characterised by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) coupled with energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Raman spectroscopy. The results showed that C-N-TiO2 was successfully deposited on anticorrosion coated SS supports and had different morphologies. The amorphous C and TiO2 were predominant in C-N-TiO2 over anatase and rutile phases on the surface of SS and anticorrosion supports. The C-N-TiO2 coated films showed enhanced photocatalytic activity for the decolouration of O.II dye under both solar and UV radiations. The fabricated C-N-TiO2 films showed significant antibacterial activities in the dark as well as in visible light. Herein, we demonstrate that SS/Ti(N,O) and SS/Cr-N/Cr(N,O) anticorrosion coatings are adequate photocatalytic and corrosion resistant supports. The C-N-TiO2 photo catalytic coatings can be used for water and wastewater decontamination of pollutants and microbes.
III-Nitrides Resonant Cavity Photodetector Devices
Authors: Fernández Susana , Naranjo Fernando B. , Sánchez-García Miguel Ángel , Calleja Enrique
Published: October 2020

III-nitride resonant cavity-enhanced Schottky barrier photodetectors were fabricated on 2 µm thick GaN templates by radio frequency plasma-assisted molecular beam epitaxy. The optical cavity was formed by a bottom distributed Bragg reflector based on 10 periods of Al0.3Ga0.7N/GaN, an Au-based Schottky contact as top mirror, and an active zone of 40 nm-thick GaN layer. The devices were fabricated with planar geometry. To evaluate the main benefits allowed by the optical cavity, conventional Schottky photodetectors were also processed. The results revealed a planar spectral response for the conventional photodetector, unlike the resonant devices that showed two raised peaks at 330 and 358 nm with responsivities of 0.34 and 0.39 mA/W, respectively. Both values were 80 times higher than the planar response of the conventional device. These results demonstrate the strong effect of the optical cavity to achieve the desired wavelength selectivity and to enhance the optical field thanks to the light resonance into the optical cavity. The research of such a combination of nitride-based Bragg mirror and thin active layer is the kernel of the present paper.
Storytelling Advertising Investment Profits in Marketing: From the Perspective of Consumers’ Purchase Intention
Authors: Tsai Meng-Chuan
Published: October 2020

The purpose of the research is exploring the resonance of advertising benefits of storytelling in marketing from the perspective of consumers’ purchase intention. The college students are the study objects to watch different advertisement stories of different video duration, and compares the differences in the influence of different advertisement stories on college students’ purchasing inclination to reflect the advertising investment profits. The study found that the longer video duration of the advertising story, the more positive the consumer’s perception of the brand image and brand identity, and the more likely it is to promote consumers’ purchase intention for the brand.
A Case Study of a Lesson on the Sample Mean for Prospective Mathematics Teachers
Authors: Kim Somin
Published: October 2020

In statistical inference, many students have a difficult time learning the sample mean, sampling distribution, and the central limit theorem, even though these are key concepts in statistics. This study aimed to identify and correct prospective mathematics teachers’ misconceptions about the sample mean and sampling distribution during the statistical inference process in an introductory statistics course at two Korean universities. It also aimed to develop an exploratory lesson by applying Keller’s ARCS (attention, relevance, confidence, and satisfaction) model so that the prospective teachers could better understand the sample mean and sampling distribution and correct their misconceptions. The exploratory lesson was implemented, observed, and analyzed. The findings showed that the exploratory lesson had positive effects on prospective teachers’ attention, relevance, confidence, and satisfaction. In addition, through communication and discussion with their peers, they could better understand the concepts, discover new facts, and correct their misconceptions in the exploration process of the lesson. Thus, this study provided empirical evidence to show that an exploratory statistics lesson using Keller’s ARCS model can be an effective lesson model for teaching statistical inference.
The Effect of a Hyperbolic Two-Temperature Model with and without Energy Dissipation in a Semiconductor Material
Authors: Alzahrani Faris , Abbas Ibrahim
Published: October 2020

In this work, the new model of photothermal and elastic waves, with and without energy dissipation, under a hyperbolic two-temperature model, is used to compute the displacement, carrier density, thermodynamic temperature, conductive temperature and stress in a semiconductor medium. The medium is considered in the presence of the coupling of plasma and thermoelastic waves. To get the complete analytical expressions of the main physical fields, Laplace transforms and the eigenvalue scheme are used. The outcomes are presented graphically to display the differences between the classical two-temperature theory and the new hyperbolic two-temperature theory, with and without energy dissipation. Based on the numerical results, the hyperbolic two-temperature thermoelastic theory offers a finite speed of mechanical waves and propagation of thermal waves.
Positive Anti-SSA/Ro Antibody in a Woman with SARS-CoV-2 Infection Using Immunophenotyping: A Case Report
Authors: Huang Po-I , Lin Ting-Chun , Liu Feng-Cheng , Ho Yi-Jung , Lu Jeng-Wei , Lin Te-Yu
Published: October 2020

The clinical spectrum of novel coronavirus infection appears to be wide, encompassing asymptomatic infection, mild upper respiratory tract illness, and severe viral pneumonia, with respiratory failure and even death. Autoantibodies, especially antiphospholipid antibodies, can occur in severe infections. Other autoantibodies are seldom reported. Here, a 60-year-old female patient without dry-mouth symptoms detected positive for anti-60 kDa SSA/Ro antibodies on day 43 after severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection. To investigate this unique clinical case of SARS-CoV-2 infection, immunological characteristics of this case were detected by using flow cytometry and were compared to the other three groups of patients—health subjects, 2019 novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) recovery patients, and Sjögren’s syndrome (SS) patients. Monitoring the autoantibody level and the development of subsequently related autoimmune diseases are warranted after SARS-CoV-2 infection.
An Experimental Study on Effects of Corrosion and Stirrups Spacing on Bond Behavior of Reinforced Concrete
Authors: Koulouris Konstantinos , Apostolopoulos Charis
Published: October 2020

The current experimental study consists of part of an extensive and ongoing research on bond behavior of RC elements damaged by corrosion, focusing on stirrups spacing effect on bonding. For this, RC specimens with different cases of stirrups spacing were casted. Accelerated corrosion was induced in order to simulate the slow process of nature corrosion on RC specimens and the corrosion damage was estimated in terms of mass loss of steel bars and average width of surface concrete cracking. Subsequently, pull-out tests were carried out to examine the bonding resistance between steel and concrete. The study indicates the great influence of density of stirrups on the percentage mass loss of the embedded reinforcing bar, accompanied by width of surface concrete cracking, as well as on bond strength between steel and concrete. The results of bond stress–slip curves show that the densification of stirrups plays a significant role in bonding, leading to higher bond strength values and delaying the degradation of bond loss as corrosion damage increases. However, it becomes apparent that, although the densification of stirrups (Φ8/60 mm) result in the full anchorage of steel-reinforcing bars, it may be inappropriate, since it can lead to a substantial increase in costs and a rapid rise in corrosion rate, due to potential increase. Furthermore, the recorded values of relative slip at bond strength are between 1 and 3 mm, regardless of corrosion damage or concrete cracking, which depends on the ribs geometry and crushing of concrete in front of them. To conclude, the results of the present manuscript indicate that the increase in transverse reinforcement (stirrups) percentage plays a key role in the durability of reinforced concrete elements and in bond strength maintenance between rebar and concrete.
Magnesium Alloys for Biomedical Applications
Authors: Maier Petra , Hort Norbert
Published: October 2020

Interest in magnesium alloys as biodegradable metals has strongly grown over the last decades [...]
Devitrification of Zr55Cu30Al15Ni5Bulk Metallic Glass under Heating and HPT Deformation
Authors: Abrosimova Galina , Gnesin Boris , Gunderov Dmitry , Drozdenko Alexandra , Matveev Danila , Mironchuk Bogdan , Pershina Elena , Sholin Ilia , Aronin Alexandr
Published: October 2020

The nanocrystal formation in Zr55Cu30Al15Ni5 bulk metallic glass was studied under heat treatment and deformation. The activation energy of crystallization under heating is 278 kJ/mol. Different crystalline phases were found to be formed during crystallization under heating and deformation. At the first crystallization stage, the metastable phase with a hexagonal structure (lattice of space group P63/mmc with the parameters a = 8.66 Å, c = 14.99 Å) is formed under heat treatment. When the temperature rises, the metastable phase decays with the formation of stable crystalline phases. The crystalline Zr2Cu phase with the lattice of space group Fd3m is formed during crystallization under the action of deformation. It was determined that during deformation nanocrystals are formed primarily in the subsurface regions of the samples.
Experimental Study on the Minimum Undeformed Chip Thickness Based on Effective Rake Angle in Micro Milling
Authors: Wu Xian , Liu Li , Du Mingyang , Shen Jianyun , Jiang Feng , Li Yuan , Lin Yiyang
Published: October 2020

Micro milling is widely used to manufacture micro parts due to its obvious advantages. The minimum undeformed chip thickness, the effective rake angle, and size effect are the typical characteristics and closely related to each other in micro milling. In this paper, the averaging method is proposed to quantitatively estimate the effective rake angle in the cutting process. The minimum undeformed chip thickness is explained based on the effective rake angle and determined to be 0.17 rn (tool cutting edge radius). Then, micro milling experiment was conducted to study the effect of the minimum undeformed chip thickness. It is found that the minimum undeformed chip thickness results in the unstable cutting process, the uneven peaks on cutting force signal, and the dense characteristic frequency distribution on frequency domain signal. The dominant ploughing effect induces the great specific cutting energy and the deteriorated surface roughness due to the minimum undeformed chip thickness.
Culturing Ancient Bacteria Carrying Resistance Genes from Permafrost and Comparative Genomics with Modern Isolates
Authors: Afouda Pamela , Dubourg Grégory , Levasseur Anthony , Fournier Pierre-Edouard , Delerce Jeremy , Mediannikov Oleg , Diene Seydina M. , Nahon Daniel , Bourlès Didier , Rolain Jean-Marc , Raoult Didier
Published: October 2020

Long considered to be a consequence of human antibiotics use by deduction, antibiotic resistance mechanisms appear to be in fact a much older phenomenon as antibiotic resistance genes have previously been detected from millions of year-old permafrost samples. As these specimens guarantee the viability of archaic bacteria, we herein propose to apply the culturomics approach to recover the bacterial content of a Siberian permafrost sample dated, using the in situ-produced cosmogenic nuclide chlorine36 (36Cl), at 2.7 million years to study the dynamics of bacterial evolution in an evolutionary perspective. As a result, we cultured and sequenced the genomes of 28 ancient bacterial species including one new species. To perform genome comparison between permafrost strains and modern isolates we selected 7 of these species (i.e., Achromobacter insolitus, Bacillus idriensis, Brevundimonas aurantiaca, Janibacter melonis, Kocuria rhizophila, Microbacterium hydrocarbonoxydans and Paracoccus yeei). We observed a high level of variability in genomic content with a percentage of shared genes in the core genomes ranging from 21.23% to 55.59%. In addition, the Single Nucleotide Polymorphism (SNP) comparison between permafrost and modern strains for the same species did not allow a dating of ancient strains based on genomic content. There were no significant differences in antibiotic resistance profiles between modern and ancient isolates of each species. Acquired resistance to antibiotics was phenotypically detected in all gram-negative bacterial species recovered from permafrost, with a significant number of genes coding for antibiotic resistance detected. Taken together, these findings confirm previously obtained data that antibiotic resistance predates humanity as most of antimicrobial agents are natural weapons used in inter-microbial conflicts within the biosphere.
Antiviral Effects of Curcumin on Adenovirus Replication
Authors: Jennings Morgan R. , Parks Robin J.
Published: October 2020

Human adenovirus (HAdV) is a common pathogen that can cause severe morbidity and mortality in certain populations, including pediatric, geriatric, and immunocompromised patients. Unfortunately, there are no approved therapeutics to combat HAdV infections. Curcumin, the primary curcuminoid compound found in turmeric spice, has shown broad activity as an antimicrobial agent, limiting the replication of many different bacteria and viruses. In this study, we evaluated curcumin as an anti-HAdV agent. Treatment of cells in culture with curcumin reduced HAdV replication, gene expression, and virus yield, at concentrations of curcumin that had little effect on cell viability. Thus, curcumin represents a promising class of compounds for further study as potential therapeutics to combat HAdV infection.
Proteotyping Environmental Microorganisms by Phylopeptidomics: Case Study Screening Water from a Radioactive Material Storage Pool
Authors: Hayoun Karim , Pible Olivier , Petit Pauline , Allain François , Jouffret Virginie , Culotta Karen , Rivasseau Corinne , Armengaud Jean , Alpha-Bazin Béatrice
Published: October 2020

The microbial diversity encompassed by the environmental biosphere is largely unexplored, although it represents an extensive source of new knowledge and potentially of novel enzymatic catalysts for biotechnological applications. To determine the taxonomy of microorganisms, proteotyping by tandem mass spectrometry has proved its efficiency. Its latest extension, phylopeptidomics, adds a biomass quantitation perspective for mixtures of microorganisms. Here, we present an application of phylopeptidomics to rapidly and sensitively screen microorganisms sampled from an industrial environment, i.e., a pool where radioactive material is stored. The power of this methodology is demonstrated through the identification of both prokaryotes and eukaryotes, whether as pure isolates or present as mixtures or consortia. In this study, we established accurate taxonomical identification of environmental prokaryotes belonging to the Actinobacteria, Bacteroidetes, Firmicutes, and Proteobacteria phyla, as well as eukaryotes from the Ascomycota phylum. The results presented illustrate the potential of tandem mass spectrometry proteotyping, in particular phylopeptidomics, to screen for and rapidly identify microorganisms.
A New Endemic of Concomitant Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease and Chronic Hepatitis B
Authors: Hanif Hira , Khan Muzammil M. , Ali Mukarram J. , Shah Pir A. , Satiya Jinendra , Lau Daryl T.Y. , Aslam Aysha
Published: October 2020

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection remains a global public problem despite the availability of an effective vaccine. In the past decades, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has surpassed HBV as the most common cause of chronic liver disease worldwide. The prevalence of concomitant chronic hepatitis B (CHB) and NAFLD thus reaches endemic proportions in geographic regions where both conditions are common. Patients with CHB and NAFLD are at increased risk of liver disease progression to cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. Due to the complexity of the pathogenesis, accurate diagnosis of NAFLD in CHB patients can be challenging. Liver biopsy is considered the gold standard for diagnosing and determining disease severity, but it is an invasive procedure with potential complications. There is a growing body of literature on the application of novel noninvasive serum biomarkers and advanced radiological modalities to diagnose and evaluate NAFLD, but most have not been adequately validated, especially for patients with CHB. Currently, there is no approved therapy for NAFLD, although many new agents are in different phases of development. This review provides a summary of the epidemiology, clinical features, diagnosis, and management of the NAFLD and highlights the unmet needs in the areas of CHB and NAFLD coexistence.
Supplementation with Combined Lactobacillus helveticus R0052 and Bifidobacterium longum R0175 Across Development Reveals Sex Differences in Physiological and Behavioural Effects of Western Diet in Long–Evans Rats
Authors: Myles Elizabeth M. , O’Leary M. Elizabeth , Smith Rylan , MacPherson Chad W. , Oprea Alexandra , Melanson Emma H. , Tompkins Thomas A. , Perrot Tara S.
Published: October 2020

The gut microbiome affects various physiological and psychological processes in animals and humans, and environmental influences profoundly impact its composition. Disorders such as anxiety, obesity, and inflammation have been associated with certain microbiome compositions, which may be modulated in early life. In 62 Long–Evans rats, we characterised the effects of lifelong Bifidobacterium longum R0175 and Lactobacillus helveticus R0052 administration—along with Western diet exposure—on later anxiety, metabolic consequences, and inflammation. We found that the probiotic formulation altered specific anxiety-like behaviours in adulthood. We further show distinct sex differences in metabolic measures. In females, probiotic treatment increased calorie intake and leptin levels without affecting body weight. In males, the probiotic seemed to mitigate the effects of Western diet on adult weight gain and calorie intake, without altering leptin levels. The greatest inflammatory response was seen in male, Western-diet-exposed, and probiotic-treated rats, which may be related to levels of specific steroid hormones in these groups. These results suggest that early-life probiotic supplementation and diet exposure can have particular implications on adult health in a sex-dependent manner, and highlight the need for further studies to examine the health outcomes of probiotic treatment in both sexes.
Metabolic Response of Faecalibacterium prausnitzii to Cell-Free Supernatants from Lactic Acid Bacteria
Authors: Lebas Mathilde , Garault Peggy , Carrillo Daniel , Codoñer Francisco M. , Derrien Muriel
Published: October 2020

Interest in preventive or therapeutic strategies targeting gut microbiota is increasing. Such strategies may involve the direct replenishment of the gut microbiota with single strains or strain mixtures, or the manipulation of strain abundance through dietary intervention, including lactic acid bacteria. A few candidate species associated with health benefits have been identified, including Faecalibacterium prausnitzii. Given its growth requirements, modulation of this bacterium has not been extensively studied. In this investigation, we explored the capacity of cell-free supernatants of different Lactobacillus, Streptococcus, Lactococcus, and Bifidobacterium strains to stimulate the growth of F. prausnitzii A2-165. Modulation by four strains with the greatest capacity to stimulate growth or delay lysis, Lactococcus lactis subsp. lactis CNCM I-1631, Lactococcus lactis subsp. cremoris CNCM I-3558, Lactobacillus paracasei CNCM I-3689, and Streptococcus thermophilus CNCM I-3862, was further characterized by transcriptomics. The response of F. prausnitzii to cell-free supernatants from these four strains revealed several shared characteristics, in particular, upregulation of carbohydrate metabolism and cell wall-related genes and downregulation of replication and mobilome genes. Overall, this study suggests differential responses of F. prausnitzii to metabolites produced by different strains, providing protection against cell death, with an increase in peptidoglycan levels for cell wall formation, and reduced cell mobilome activity.
Physicochemical Characteristics of the Birnessite and Todorokite Synthesized Using Various Methods
Authors: Min Soyoung , Kim Yeongkyoo
Published: October 2020

The synthesis methods used to produce todorokite (10 Å manganate, OMS-1) and birnessite (7 Å manganate), which are abundant in marine manganese nodules, have been studied to confirm whether pure mineral phases can be obtained and to compare their physicochemical characteristics. The physicochemical characteristics of todorokite and its precursor Na–birnessite can vary widely based on the precursors used during their synthesis. Birnessite can be synthesized via three mechanisms, i.e., the oxidation of Mn2+, a redox reaction between Mn2+ and MnO4−, or the reduction of MnO4−. Herein, four precursors are used to synthesize birnessite using different methods before being transformed into todorokite. The characteristics of the birnessite and todorokite synthesized using different methods are investigated via X-ray diffraction (XRD), chemical analysis, Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and field emission scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Based on the method used, birnessite and todorokite exhibit distinct physicochemical features, including crystallinity, crystal structure, specific surface area, oxidation state of manganese, thermal stability, and morphology. Thus, the characteristics of birnessite and todorokite are closely correlated, indicating the importance of designing suitable methods to synthesize them for specific applications.
Tangible Interaction with Light: A Review
Authors: Li Yanhong , Rossmy Beat , Hußmann Heinrich
Published: October 2020

Light is an important means of information representation and feedback in Human–Computer Interaction (HCI), and light-emitting interaction elements are omni-present. We address here the interplay of light and tangible interaction with specifically designed objects. The goal of such designs is to support an embodied, emotional and engaged interaction experience integrated into the physical surroundings. The specific combination of tangible interaction and light as a medium is used in several approaches, but a systematic overview of this research area still does not exist. In order to understand the essence, process and result of tangible interaction with light, we conducted a systematic literature review of 169 studies of tangible interaction with light over the past 20 years. Our results provide a demographic overview of the research, but foremost analyze their concepts, purposes, conceptual frameworks, user contexts, interaction behaviors and problems addressed by tangible light. Three important findings were obtained: (1) Tangible interaction with light has been used for diverse purposes, contexts and interactions; (2) Tangible light has addressed problems: weak interaction, don’t know how to interact, interaction lacks innovation, collaborative interaction, remote tangible interaction, and emotional interaction; (3) Current research in this area can be classified as “wild theory” in conceptual research frameworks, which means it emphasizes very much on innovation. The most important contribution of this work is the systematic review in itself, but the findings of our work also give some indications on new ways and future trends for tangible interaction, when combined with light as a medium.
A β-cyclodextrin Modified Graphitic Carbon Nitride with Au Co-Catalyst for Efficient Photocatalytic Hydrogen Peroxide Production
Authors: Zuo Guifu , Zhang Yuqian , Liu Shanshan , Guo Zhaoliang , Zhao Qiannan , Saianand Gopalan , Feng Liwei , Li Lijuan , Li Wangze , Zhang Ning , Meng Xianguang , Roy Vellaisamy A. L.
Published: October 2020

Photocatalytic hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) production has attracted considerable attention as a renewable and environment-friendly method to replace other traditional production techniques. The performance of H2O2 production remains limited by the inertness of graphitic carbon nitride (CN) towards the adsorption and activation of O2. In this work, a photocatalyst comprising of β-cyclodextrin (β-CD)-modified CN with supporting Au co-catalyst (Au/β-CD-CN) has been utilized for effective H2O2 production under visible light irradiation. The static contact angle measurement suggested that β-CD modification increased the hydrophobicity of the CN photocatalyst as well as its affinity to oxygen gas, leading to an increase in H2O2 production. The rate of H2O2 production reached more than 0.1 mM/h under visible-light irradiation. The electron spin resonance spectra indicated that H2O2 was directly formed via a 2-electron oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) over the Au/β-CD-CN photocatalyst.
A Review of Biodegradable Natural Polymer-Based Nanoparticles for Drug Delivery Applications
Authors: Idrees Humaira , Zaidi Syed Zohaib Javaid , Sabir Aneela , Khan Rafi Ullah , Zhang Xunli , Hassan Sammer-ul
Published: October 2020

Biodegradable natural polymers have been investigated extensively as the best choice for encapsulation and delivery of drugs. The research has attracted remarkable attention in the pharmaceutical industry. The shortcomings of conventional dosage systems, along with modified and targeted drug delivery methods, are addressed by using polymers with improved bioavailability, biocompatibility, and lower toxicity. Therefore, nanomedicines are now considered to be an innovative type of medication. This review critically examines the use of natural biodegradable polymers and their drug delivery systems for local or targeted and controlled/sustained drug release against fatal diseases.
Synergistic Effect of Chitosan and Selenium Nanoparticles on Biodegradation and Antibacterial Properties of Collagenous Scaffolds Designed for Infected Burn Wounds
Authors: Dorazilová Jana , Muchová Johana , Šmerková Kristýna , Kočiová Silvia , Diviš Pavel , Kopel Pavel , Veselý Radek , Pavliňáková Veronika , Adam Vojtěch , Vojtová Lucy
Published: October 2020

A highly porous scaffold is a desirable outcome in the field of tissue engineering. The porous structure mediates water-retaining properties that ensure good nutrient transportation as well as creates a suitable environment for cells. In this study, porous antibacterial collagenous scaffolds containing chitosan and selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) as antibacterial agents were studied. The addition of antibacterial agents increased the application potential of the material for infected and chronic wounds. The morphology, swelling, biodegradation, and antibacterial activity of collagen-based scaffolds were characterized systematically to investigate the overall impact of the antibacterial additives. The additives visibly influenced the morphology, water-retaining properties as well as the stability of the materials in the presence of collagenase enzymes. Even at concentrations as low as 5 ppm of SeNPs, modified polymeric scaffolds showed considerable inhibition activity towards Gram-positive bacterial strains such as Staphylococcus aureus and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus and Staphylococcus epidermidis in a dose-dependent manner.
Au–Nitrogen-Doped Graphene Quantum Dot Composites as “On–Off” Nanosensors for Sensitive Photo-Electrochemical Detection of Caffeic Acid
Authors: Zhao Qiyuan , Zhou Lin , Li Xue , He Jiaqi , Huang Weichun , Cai Yan , Wang Jin , Chen Tingting , Du Yukou , Yao Yong
Published: October 2020

Herein, gold–nitrogen-doped graphene quantum dot (Au/NGQD) composite modified electrodes were fabricated and applied as “on–off” nanosensors for the photo-electrochemical (PEC) detection of caffeic acid under visible-light irradiation. An effective and simple strategy was established for the preparation of Au/NGQD composites by hydrothermal and calcination methods. Owing to the quantum confinement effect of NGQDs, the local surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) effect of Au nanoparticles (NPs), and the synergistic effect between Au and NGQDs NPs, the Au/NGQDs showed excellent PEC performance, with wide linear concentration ranges (0.11 to 30.25 μM and 30.25 to 280.25 μM), a low detection limit (0.03 μM), excellent sensitivity, and high stability. The present study may provide an advanced strategy for the simple design of Au/NGQD composites to allow their effective application for selective and sensitive sensing of small biological molecules.
Characterization of Local Structures of Confined Imidazolium Ionic Liquids in PVdF-co-HFP Matrices by High Pressure Infrared Spectroscopy
Authors: Wang Teng-Hui , Wu Ming-Siou , Chang Hai-Chou
Published: October 2020

The nanoscale ion ordering of ionic liquids at confined interfaces under high pressures was investigated in this study. 1-Hexyl-3-methylimidazolium bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide ([HMIM][NTf2])/poly(vinylidene fluoride-co-hexafluoropropylene) (PVdF-co-HFP) and 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide ([EMIM][NTf2])/PVdF-co-HFP were prepared and characterized by using high-pressure infrared spectroscopy. Under ambient pressure, imidazolium C2–H and C4,5–H absorptions were blue-shifted in frequency due to the presence of PVdF-co-HFP. However, the absorption of anionic νa SO2 did not reveal any significant shifts in frequency upon dilution by PVdF-co-HFP. The experimental results suggest that PVdF-co-HFP disturbs the local structures of the imidazolium C–H groups instead of the anionic SO2 groups. The frequency shifts of C4,5–H became dramatic for the mixtures at high pressures. These results suggest that pressure-enhanced ionic liquid–polymer interactions may play an appreciable role in IL-PVdF-co-HFP systems under high pressures. The pressure-induced blue-shifts due to the PVdF-co-HFP additions were more obvious for the [HMIM][NTf2] mixtures than for [EMIM][NTf2] mixtures.
Subjective Socioeconomic Status and Children’s Amygdala Volume: Minorities’ Diminish Returns
Authors: Assari Shervin , Boyce Shanika , Bazargan Mohsen
Published: October 2020

Considerable research has suggested that low socioeconomic status (SES) negatively influences brain structure, including but not limited to decreased amygdala volume. Considering race and ethnicity as sociological rather than biological constructs, this study was built on minorities’ diminished returns (MDRs) to test if the effects of family SES on the total amygdala volume is weaker for black and Latino children than white and non-Latino children. We borrowed data from the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development (ABCD) study, a national multi-center brain imaging investigation of childhood brain development in the US. The total sample was 9380 9–10-year-old children. The independent variables were subjective family SES and parental education. The primary outcome was total amygdala volume. High subjective SES and parental education were independently associated with larger total amygdala size. The association between high subjective SES and larger total amygdala volume was less pronounced for black and Latino children than white and non-Latino children. For American children, family SES has unequal effects on amygdala size and function, a pattern that is consistent with MDRs. This result suggests that SES loses some of its expected effects for racial and ethnic minority families.
Inula britannica Inhibits Adipogenesis of 3T3-L1 Preadipocytes via Modulation of Mitotic Clonal Expansion Involving ERK 1/2 and Akt Signaling Pathways
Authors: Yu Hyung-Seok , Kim Won-Ju , Bae Won-Young , Lee Na-Kyoung , Paik Hyun-Dong
Published: October 2020

The flower of Inula britannica contains various phenolic compounds with prophylactic properties. This study aimed to determine the anti-adipogenic effect of an I. britannica flower aqueous extract (IAE) and its underlying mechanisms in the 3T3-L1 preadipocytes and to identify the phenolic compounds in the extract. Treatment with IAE inhibited the adipogenesis of 3T3-L1 preadipocytes by showing a dose-dependently suppressed intracellular lipid accumulation and significantly mitigated expression levels of lipogenesis- and adipogenesis-associated biomarkers including transcription factors. IAE exerted an anti-adipogenic effect through the modulation of the early phases of adipogenesis including mitotic clonal expansion (MCE). Treatment with IAE inhibited MCE by arresting the cell cycle at the G0/G1 phase and suppressing the activation of MCE-related transcription factors. Furthermore, IAE inhibited adipogenesis by regulating the extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 and Akt signaling pathways. Protocatechuic acid, chlorogenic acid, kaempferol-3-O-glucoside, and 6-methoxyluteolin, which are reported to exhibit anti-adipogenic properties, were detected in IAE. Therefore, modulation of early phases of adipogenesis, especially MCE, is a key mechanism underlying the anti-adipogenic activity of IAE. In summary, the anti-obesity effects of IAE can be attributed to its phenolic compounds, and hence, IAE can be used for the development of anti-obesity products.
Low Selenium Levels in Amniotic Fluid Correlate with Small-For-Gestational Age Newborns
Authors: Ogrizek-Pelkič Ksenija , Sobočan Monika , Takač Iztok
Published: October 2020

Background: Identifying women at risk for small-for-gestational-age newborns (SGA) is an important challenge in obstetrics. Several different risk factors have been suggested to contribute to the development of SGA. Previous research is inconclusive on the role selenium (Se) plays in the development of SGA. The aim of the study was therefore to explore the role of Se concentrations in amniotic fluid in order to understand its possible role in the development of SGA. Study Design: This prospective, single center study investigated the relationships between Se concentrations in amniotic fluid and pregnancy outcomes. Amniotic fluid was collected from pregnant women during amniocentesis at 16/17 weeks of pregnancy. Se values were determined using the electrothermal atomic absorption spectrometry and expressed in µg/L. Characteristics of mothers and newborns were obtained from women and delivery records. Results: 327 samples of amniotic fluid were evaluated. Patients with SGA newborns had significantly lower mean values of amniotic fluid concentrations of Se compared to appropriate-for-gestational-age (AGA) newborns (4.8 ± 1.9 µg/L versus 5.6 ± 2.5 µg/L (p = 0.017)). Adjusting for different risk factors, Se remained the only significant factor impacting the outcome of a newborn (b = −0.152, s.e. = 0.077; p < 0.048). Se levels in amniotic fluid did not correlate with pre-eclampsia or preterm delivery. Conclusion: Amniotic fluid Se levels represent a viable root of further investigation and assessment in order to identify women with low birth weight newborns early. Women with decreased Se levels had a statistically significant chance of developing SGA. Further research is needed to elucidate the link between Se, other trace elements, and other risk factors and their impact on the development of SGA newborns.
Isoeugenol and Hybrid Acetamides against Candida albicans Isolated from the Oral Cavity
Authors: Medeiros Daianne , Oliveira-Júnior José , Nóbrega Jefferson , Cordeiro Laísa , Jardim Jeane , Souza Helivaldo , Silva Gracielle , Athayde-Filho Petrônio , Barbosa-Filho José , Scotti Luciana , Lima Edeltrudes
Published: October 2020

Isougenol is a phytoconstituent found in several essential oils. Since many natural products are potent antimicrobials, the synthesis of hybrid molecules—combining the chemical skeleton of the phytochemical with synthetic groups—can generate substances with enhanced biological activity. Based on this, the objective of this study was to evaluate the antifungal activity of isoeugenol and hybrid acetamides against Candida albicans isolated from the oral cavity. The methodologies used were the determination of minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC), minimum fungicidal concentration (MFC), action on fungal micromorphology, interaction test with nystatin by the checkerboard method and molecular docking study with important enzymes in the maintenance of fungal viability. The synthetic molecules did not demonstrate significant antifungal activity in vitro. The isoeugenol MIC and MFC varied between 128 and 256 µg/mL, being the phytoconstituent able to interfere in the formation of blastoconid and chlamydoconid structures, important in the pathogenic process of the species. The molecular docking study revealed that isoeugenol is a potential inhibitor of the enzymes 14-α-demethylase and delta-14-sterol reductase, interfering in the fungal cell membrane biosynthesis. Thus, this research provides clearer expectations for future pharmacological studies with isoeugenol and derived molecules, aiming at its therapeutic application against infections caused by Candida spp.
TMS-Induced Controlled BBB Opening: Preclinical Characterization and Implications for Treatment of Brain Cancer
Authors: Vazana Udi , Schori Lior , Monsonego Uri , Swissa Evyatar , Pell Gabriel S. , Roth Yiftach , Brodt Pnina , Friedman Alon , Prager Ofer
Published: October 2020

Proper neuronal function requires strict maintenance of the brain’s extracellular environment. Therefore, passage of molecules between the circulation and brain neuropil is tightly regulated by the blood–brain barrier (BBB). While the BBB is vital for normal brain function, it also restricts the passage of drugs, potentially effective in treating brain diseases, into the brain. Despite previous attempts, there is still an unmet need to develop novel approaches that will allow safe opening of the BBB for drug delivery. We have recently shown in experimental rodents and in a pilot human trial that low-frequency, high-amplitude repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) allows the delivery of peripherally injected fluorescent and Gd-based tracers into the brain. The goals of this study were to characterize the duration and safety level of rTMS-induced BBB opening and test its capacity to enhance the delivery of the antitumor growth agent, insulin-like growth factor trap, across the BBB. We employed direct vascular and magnetic resonance imaging, as well as electrocorticography recordings, to assess the impact of rTMS on brain vascular permeability and electrical activity, respectively. Our findings indicate that rTMS induces a transient and safe BBB opening with a potential to facilitate drug delivery into the brain.
Development of an Oil-in-Water Self-Emulsifying Microemulsion for Cutaneous Delivery of Rose Bengal: Investigation of Anti-Melanoma Properties
Authors: Forouz Farzaneh , Dabbaghi Maryam , Namjoshi Sarika , Mohammed Yousuf , Roberts Michael S. , Grice Jeffrey E.
Published: October 2020

The topical delivery route is proposed as an alternative or adjunctive approach to melanoma treatment, since the target site for melanoma treatment—the epidermal basal layer—is potentially accessible by this route. Microemulsion systems are effective delivery vehicles for enhanced, targeted skin delivery. This work investigated the effect of Rose Bengal (RB) and RB-loaded self-emulsifying microemulsions (SEMEs) on growth inhibition of human melanoma and normal skin cell monolayers, the safety of the excipients incorporated in SEMEs on human cell lines, and the in-vitro human skin penetration of RB delivered in SEMEs and control solution. Cellular toxicity was assessed by the 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay, and the growth inhibitory mechanism of RB was investigated by flow cytometry using PI staining. Unloaded SEMEs caused reduced cellular toxicity compared to the surfactant excipient, Labrasol®. RB-loaded SEMEs increased cell growth inhibition compared to the RB aqueous solution. Flow cytometry revealed apoptotic cells after treatment with RB-loaded SEMEs, indicating that apoptosis may be one of the mechanisms of cell death. Preliminary results of multiphoton microscopy with fluorescence lifetime imaging (MPM-FLIM) analysis showed deeper penetration with greater skin concentrations of RB delivered from SEMEs compared to the RB aqueous solution. This study highlights the enhanced skin penetration and antimelanoma effects of RB loaded in a SEME system.
Patient Screenings for Preconception Health Interventions at a Community Pharmacy
Authors: Luli Alex J , Tran Natalie , Ataya Angela , Rafie Sally
Published: October 2020

Preconception health refers to health before pregnancy and involves addressing risk factors that can negatively impact either a patient or future pregnancy. Pharmacists can play an essential role in screening for and managing patients’ risk factors to optimize pregnancy outcomes. The primary objective of this study is to determine whether preconception health screenings in community pharmacy settings identify opportunities for preconception health services, particularly pharmacy-based interventions. The secondary objectives are to describe the preconception health status of community pharmacy patients and their interest in receiving preconception care services by a clinical pharmacist in a community pharmacy setting. Two independent pharmacies conducted a pilot project where people were invited to complete a health screening form that evaluated their preconception health. Participants received a personalized health report with an invitation to meet with the clinical pharmacist for services related to identified opportunities, such as contraception and immunizations. Retrospective analysis was conducted for data collected from 43 women during the patient screening effort in three community pharmacy settings (two independent community pharmacy locations and one neighborhood pharmacy outreach event). Nearly all participants (n = 42, 98%) had at least one opportunity identified to receive preconception care services, with the majority related to their alcohol use (60%). A majority of participants (56%) indicated an interest in learning more about preconception services offered at the pharmacy, but only 19% wanted to schedule an appointment with a pharmacist. Thus, there is an apparent need and opportunity for utilization of preconception health services at the pharmacy.