Exploiting the CH-π interactions in supramolecular hydrogels of aromatic carbohydrate amphiphiles

A novel class of supramolecular hydrogels derived from amino sugars is reported, where the self-assembly of aromatic carbohydrate amphiphiles is driven by CH-π interactions, rather than π–π stacking and H-bonding associated with gelators based on aromatic peptide amphiphiles. Spectroscopic data is provided as evidence for this mode of self-assembly and in silico studies revealed that a combination of CH-π and T-stacking of the fluorenyl groups contribute to the formation of the aggregated structures

Evaluation of primary HPV-DNA testing in relation to visual inspection methods for cervical cancer screening in rural China: an epidemiologic and cost-effectiveness modelling study

BACKGROUND: A new lower-cost rapid-throughput human papillomavirus (HPV) test (careHPV, Qiagen, Gaithersburg, USA) has been shown to have high sensitivity for the detection of high grade cervical intraepithelial neoplasia. METHODS: We assessed the outcomes and cost-effectiveness of careHPV screening in rural China, compared to visual inspection with acetic acid, when used alone (VIA) or in combination with Lugol's iodine (VIA/VILI). Using data on sexual behaviour, test accuracy, diagnostic practices and costs from studies performed in rural China, we estimated the cost-effectiveness ratio (CER) and associated lifetime outcomes for once-lifetime and twice-lifetime screening strategies, and for routine screening at 5-yearly, 10-yearly and IARC-recommended intervals. The optimal age range for once-lifetime screening was also assessed. RESULTS: For all strategies, the relative ordering of test technologies in reducing cervical cancer incidence and mortality was VIA (least effective); VIA/VILI; [email protected] pg/ml and [email protected] pg/ml (most effective). For once-lifetime strategies, maximum effectiveness was achieved if screening occurred between 35-50 years. Assuming a participation rate of ~70%, once-lifetime screening at age 35 years would reduce cancer mortality by 8% (for VIA) to 12% (for [email protected]) over the long term, with a CER of US$557 (for VIA) to$959 (for [email protected]) per life year saved (LYS) compared to no intervention; referenced to a 2008 GDP per capita in Shanxi Province of $2,975. Correspondingly, regular screening with an age-standardised participation rate of 62$665 (for 10-yearly VIA) to $2,269 (for IARC-recommended intervals using [email protected]) per LYS. CONCLUSIONS: This modelled analysis suggests that primary careHPV screening compares favourably to visual inspection screening methodologies in rural China, particularly if used as part of a regular screening program

A trial for the use of qigong in the treatment of pre and mild essential hypertension: a study protocol for a randomized controlled trial

<p>Abstract</p> <p>Background</p> <p>Hypertension is a risk factor for cardiovascular disease, and the prevalence of hypertension tends to increase with age. Current treatments for hypertension have side effects and poor adherence. Qigong has been studied as an alternative therapy for hypertension; however, the types of qigong used in those studies were diverse, and there have not been many well-designed randomized controlled trials.</p> <p>Our objectives are the following: 1) To evaluate the effects of qigong on blood pressure, health status and hormone levels for pre- or mild hypertension. 2) To test the methodological appropriateness of this clinical trial and calculate a sample size for future randomized trials.</p> <p>Methods</p> <p>Forty subjects with pre- or mild hypertension will be randomized to either the qigong exercise group or the non-treated group. Participants in the qigong group will conduct qigong exercises 5 times per week for 8 weeks, and participants in the non-treated group will maintain their current lifestyle, including diet and exercise. The use of antihypertensive medication is not permitted. The primary endpoint is a change in patient blood pressure. Secondary endpoints are patient health status (as measured by the SF-36 and the MYMOP2 questionnaires) and changes in hormone levels, including norepinephrine, epinephrine, and cortisol.</p> <p>Discussion</p> <p>This study will be the first randomized trial to investigate the effectiveness of qigong exercises for the treatment of pre- and mild hypertension. The results of this study will help to establish the optimal approach for the care of adults with pre- or mild hypertension.</p> <p>Trial registration</p> <p>Clinical Research Information Service KCT0000140</p

Methods for reducing visual discomfort in stereoscopic 3D: A review

This work was supported by the EPSRC Grant EP/M01469X/1, “Geometric Evaluation of Stereoscopic Video”

Transparent and flexible fingerprint sensor array with multiplexed detection of tactile pressure and skin temperature

We developed a transparent and flexible, capacitive fingerprint sensor array with multiplexed, simultaneous detection of tactile pressure and finger skin temperature for mobile smart devices. In our approach, networks of hybrid nanostructures using ultra-long metal nanofibers and finer nanowires were formed as transparent, flexible electrodes of a multifunctional sensor array. These sensors exhibited excellent optoelectronic properties and outstanding reliability against mechanical bending. This fingerprint sensor array has a high resolution with good transparency. This sensor offers a capacitance variation ~17 times better than the variation for the same sensor pattern using conventional ITO electrodes. This sensor with the hybrid electrode also operates at high frequencies with negligible degradation in its performance against various noise signals from mobile devices. Furthermore, this fingerprint sensor array can be integrated with all transparent forms of tactile pressure sensors and skin temperature sensors, to enable the detection of a finger pressing on the display

Propeller‐Like Nanorod‐Upconversion Nanoparticle Assemblies with Intense Chiroptical Activity and Luminescence Enhancement in Aqueous Phase

Peer Reviewedhttp://deepblue.lib.umich.edu/bitstream/2027.42/133596/1/adma201601261-sup-0001-S1.pdfhttp://deepblue.lib.umich.edu/bitstream/2027.42/133596/2/adma201601261_am.pdfhttp://deepblue.lib.umich.edu/bitstream/2027.42/133596/3/adma201601261.pd

Neuroprotective Effects of Marine Algae

The marine environment is known as a rich source of chemical structures with numerous beneficial health effects. Among marine organisms, marine algae have been identified as an under-exploited plant resource, although they have long been recognized as valuable sources of structurally diverse bioactive compounds. Presently, several lines of studies have provided insight into biological activities and neuroprotective effects of marine algae including antioxidant, anti-neuroinflammatory, cholinesterase inhibitory activity and the inhibition of neuronal death. Hence, marine algae have great potential to be used for neuroprotection as part of pharmaceuticals, nutraceuticals and functional foods. This contribution presents an overview of marine algal neuroprotective effects and their potential application in neuroprotection

Phosphorus-Doped Graphitic Carbon Nitrides Grown In Situ on Carbon-Fiber Paper: Flexible and Reversible Oxygen Electrodes

Australian Research Council (ARC) Grant Numbers: DP140104062, DP13010445

Graphene and molybdenum disulfide hybrids: Synthesis and applications

Graphene and related inorganic two-dimensional (2D) nanomaterials are an exceptional class of compounds with exotic properties that are technologically intriguing. While graphene itself is chemically inert and a gapless semimetal, its isostructural analog, molybdenum disulfide (MOS2) is chemically versatile with band gaps, thereby finding significant use in a myriad of applications. Although these 2D nanomaterials individually possess tremendous authority for various applications, the combination of these materials in the recent past has created a new paradigm in emerging applications. Here, we summarize the current state-of-the-art and progress over the past three years on the development of hybrids of these layered materials. We highlight their pivotal role in electrochemical energy storage, sensing, hydrogen generation by photochemical water splitting and electronic device applications such as field-effect transistors. Perspectives on the challenges and opportunities for the exploration of these 2D layered hybrid materials are put forwardopen1