ORCID Profile
0000-0002-2598-3766
Current Organisation
University of Technology Sydney
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Publisher: Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC)
Date: 2021
DOI: 10.1039/D1NA00524C
Abstract: The shape of nanoparticles is a key performance parameter for many applications, ranging from nanophotonics to nanomedicines.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 04-2022
DOI: 10.1016/J.ACTBIO.2022.01.053
Abstract: The comprehensively adopted copper-containing intrauterine devices (Cu-IUDs) present typical adverse effects such as bleeding and pain at the initial stage of post-implantation. The replacement of Cu material is demanded. Zinc and its alloys, the emerging biodegradable materials, exhibited contraceptive effects since 1969. In this work, we evaluated the feasibility of bulk Zn alloys as IUD active material. Using pure Cu and pure Zn as control groups, we investigated the contraceptive performance of Zn-0.5Cu and Zn-1Cu alloys via in vitro and in vivo tests. The results showed that the main corrosion product of Zn-Cu alloys is ZnO from both in vitro and in vivo studies. CaZn
Publisher: Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE)
Date: 06-2021
Publisher: Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC)
Date: 2023
DOI: 10.1039/D3NR00839H
Abstract: The first report of sub-4 nm mapping of donor : acceptor nanoparticle composition in eco-friendly colloidal dispersions for organic electronics.
Publisher: Springer International Publishing
Date: 2017
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 04-12-2017
Publisher: IOP Publishing
Date: 29-11-2007
Publisher: Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC)
Date: 2015
DOI: 10.1039/C5NR02127H
Abstract: We have designed a novel semiconductor nanorod film, sensitized with a polymetallic sulfide, for solar energy conversion. Our results verify that it could be conveniently used in micro-nano photoelectronic devices.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 05-2011
DOI: 10.1016/J.COLSURFB.2010.12.022
Abstract: Drug (Fenbufen, FBF)-loaded poly(D,L-lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA) and PLGA/gelatin nanofibrous scaffolds were fabricated via electrospinning technique. The influences of gelatin content, fiber arrangement, crosslinking time and pH value of the buffer solution on FBF release behavior of the resulting nanofibrous scaffolds were investigated, with the corresponding FBF-loaded PLGA and PLGA/gelatin solvent-cast films as controls. The release rate of FBF was found to be increased with the increment of gelatin content for all the composite s les, and the FBF release rate of aligned nanofibrous scaffold was lower than that of randomly oriented scaffold. Moreover, the crosslinking treatment depressed effectively the burst release of FBF at initial release stage of PLGA/gelatin (9/1) nanofibrous scaffold. In addition, the pH value of the buffer solution could change the physical state of the polymer and affect the FBF release rate.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 25-11-2023
DOI: 10.1007/S12015-022-10482-1
Abstract: Type 1 diabetes (T1D) is a chronic, lifelong metabolic disease. It is characterised by the autoimmune-mediated loss of insulin-producing pancreatic β cells in the islets of Langerhans (β-islets), resulting in disrupted glucose homeostasis. Administration of exogenous insulin is the most common management method for T1D, but this requires lifelong reliance on insulin injections and invasive blood glucose monitoring. Replacement therapies with beta cells are being developed as an advanced curative treatment for T1D. Unfortunately, this approach is limited by the lack of donated pancreatic tissue, the difficulties in beta cell isolation and viability maintenance, the longevity of the transplanted cells in vivo, and consequently high costs. Emerging approaches to address these limitations are under intensive investigations, including the production of insulin-producing beta cells from various stem cells, and the development of bioengineered devices including nanotechnologies for improving islet transplantation efficacy without the need for recipients taking toxic anti-rejection drugs. These emerging approaches present promising prospects, while the challenges with the new techniques need to be tackled for ultimately clinical treatment of T1D. This review discussed the benefits and limitations of the cell-based therapies for beta cell replacement as potential curative treatment for T1D, and the applications of bioengineered devices including nanotechnology to overcome the challenges associated with beta cell transplantation.
Publisher: IOP Publishing
Date: 12-10-2020
Abstract: NaYF 4 is an efficient host material for lanthanide-based upconversion luminescence and has attracted immense interest for potential applications in photovoltaics, lasers and bioimaging. However, being a non-van der Waals (non-vdW) material, there have been thus far no reports on exfoliation of bulk NaYF 4 to nanosheets and their upconversion luminescence properties. Here, we demonstrate for the first time the fabrication of lanthanide-containing NaYF 4 2D nanosheets using a soft liquid-phase exfoliation method and report on their optical, electronic and chemical characteristics. The nanosheets exfoliated from NaYF 4 :Yb,Er microcrystals consisting mainly of β -NaYF 4 become enriched in α -NaYF 4 post exfoliation and have a large micron-sized planar area with a preferential (100) surface orientation. X-ray absorption spectroscopy confirms that both Yb and Er doping ions are retained in the exfoliated nanosheets. Through centrifugation, NaYF 4 2D nanosheets are successfully obtained with thicknesses ranging from a monolayer to tens of layers. Optical analysis of in idual nanosheets shows that they exhibit both optical down-conversion and upconversion properties, albeit with reduced emission intensities compared with the parent microparticles. Further exploration of their electronic structure by density functional theory (DFT) calculations and photoelectron spectroscopy reveals the formation of surface F atom defects and a shrinkage of the electronic bandgap in ultrathin nanosheets. Our findings will trigger further interest in non-vdW 2D upconversion nanomaterials.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 08-2023
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 30-03-2018
DOI: 10.1111/FARE.12312
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 09-2020
Publisher: Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE)
Date: 10-2021
Publisher: Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC)
Date: 2018
DOI: 10.1039/C8CC00708J
Abstract: An efficient surface modification and bioconjugation strategy for upconversion nanoparticles is reported via supramolecular host–guest self-assembly.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 06-2011
DOI: 10.1016/J.COLSURFB.2011.01.037
Abstract: In this paper, an erometric biosensor of hydrogen peroxide (H(2)O(2)) was fabricated by immobilization of Hemoglobin (Hb) on a Pluronic P123-nanographene platelet (NGP) composite. Direct electron transfer in the Hb-immobilized P123-NGP composite film was greatly facilitated. The surface concentration (Γ*) and apparent heterogeneous electron transfer rate constant (k(s)) were calculated to be (1.60±0.17)×10(-10) mol cm(-2) and 48.51 s(-1), respectively. In addition, the Hb/Pluronic P123-NGP composite showed excellent bioelectrocatalytic activity toward the reduction of H(2)O(2). The biosensor of H(2)O(2) exhibited a linear response to H(2)O(2) in the range of 10-150 μM and a detection limit of 8.24 μM (S/N=3) was obtained. The apparent Michaelis-Menten constant (K(m)(app)) was 45.35 μM. The resulting biosensor showed fast erometric response, with very high sensitivity, reliability and effectiveness.
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 28-10-2021
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 08-01-2016
DOI: 10.1038/NCOMMS10254
Abstract: The ultimate frontier in nanomaterials engineering is to realize their composition control with atomic scale precision to enable fabrication of nanoparticles with desirable size, shape and surface properties. Such control becomes even more useful when growing hybrid nanocrystals designed to integrate multiple functionalities. Here we report achieving such degree of control in a family of rare-earth-doped nanomaterials. We experimentally verify the co-existence and different roles of oleate anions (OA − ) and molecules (OAH) in the crystal formation. We identify that the control over the ratio of OA − to OAH can be used to directionally inhibit, promote or etch the crystallographic facets of the nanoparticles. This control enables selective grafting of shells with complex morphologies grown over nanocrystal cores, thus allowing the fabrication of a erse library of monodisperse sub-50 nm nanoparticles. With such programmable additive and subtractive engineering a variety of three-dimensional shapes can be implemented using a bottom–up scalable approach.
Publisher: Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC)
Date: 2020
DOI: 10.1039/D0NR90159H
Abstract: Correction for ‘Video-rate upconversion display from optimized lanthanide ion doped upconversion nanoparticles’ by Laixu Gao et al. , Nanoscale , 2020, DOI: 10.1039/d0nr03076g.
Publisher: Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC)
Date: 2020
DOI: 10.1039/D0NR03076G
Abstract: A method for video-rate display with optimized single UCNP brightness by integrating the full emission intensity over excitation time and lifetime.
Publisher: Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC)
Date: 2018
DOI: 10.1039/C7NR08979A
Abstract: The integrated methods of core shell upconversion nanoparticle synthesis, thermal annealing and gold dewetting produce gold-decorated upconversion nanoparticles with enhanced emission.
Publisher: Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC)
Date: 2022
DOI: 10.1039/D1TB02523F
Abstract: We present a thorough analysis on the hemostatic mechanisms and the design principles of hemostatic materials for coagulopathy, survey their remarkable success, and briefly discuss the challenges and perspectives for their clinical translation.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 12-2021
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 06-2023
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 09-2022
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 09-08-2021
DOI: 10.1080/13561820.2021.1950130
Abstract: Allied health professionals (AHPs) often work with other health professions to provide specialized support so that patients receive optimal care. Therefore, new graduate AHPs need to be able to engage collaboratively with various health professionals in the provision of health care services. This study examines new AHP graduates' experiences and reflections on the transition to working in an interprofessional environment. Participants were new graduates (
Publisher: Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory
Date: 22-11-2019
DOI: 10.1101/837864
Abstract: Lanthanide ions doped upconversion nanoparticles (UCNPs) hold great promise as the imaging contrast agent for multimodal medical imaging techniques for diagnosis, including fluorescent bioimaging, magnetic resonance imaging, and computed tomography. However, the maximized signal values of fluorescence and MRI cannot be achieved simultaneously from the same upconversion nanoparticles structures because high specific surface areas can benefit the signal gaining of MRI while big size can induce brighter fluorescent imaging. In this work, we designed and fabricated novel core-porous shell structures for UCNPs with much-enhanced signal values for both fluorescent imaging and MRI. The core-porous shell UCNPs were synthesized via a post-treatment process after an inert shell was coated onto the core UCNPs. The formation mechanism was carefully investigated. The fluorescent and magnetic resonance properties have been detailed characterized and compared from core, core-shell and core-porous UCNPs. Large and bright UCNPs in fluorescence and MRI have been achieved and great potential as the dual-modal contrast agent.
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 09-2019
DOI: 10.1111/AJPY.12243
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 06-2014
DOI: 10.1016/J.COLSURFB.2014.03.035
Abstract: In this paper, carbon nanotubes (CNTs) were successfully incorporated in the composite composed of hemoglobin (Hb) and collagen using co-electrospinning technology. The formed Hb-collagen-CNTs composite nanofibers possessed distinct advantage of three-dimensional porous structure, biocompatibility and excellent stability. The Hb immobilized in the electrospun nanofibers retained its natural structure and the heterogeneous electron transfer rate constant (ks) of the direct electron transfer between Hb and electrodes was 5.3s(-1). In addition, the electrospun Hb-collagen-CNTs nanofibers modified electrodes showed good electrocatalytic properties toward H2O2 with a detection limit of 0.91μM (signal-to-noise ratio of 3) and the apparent Michaelis-Menten constant (Km(app)) of 32.6μM.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 08-2011
DOI: 10.1016/J.COLSURFB.2011.03.032
Abstract: In this paper, the hemoglobin (Hb)-collagen microbelt modified electrode with three-dimensional configuration was fabricated via the electrospinning method. Direct electron transfer of the Hb immobilized into the electrospun collagen microbelts was greatly facilitated. The apparent heterogeneous electron transfer rate constant (k(s)) was calculated to be 270.6s⁻¹. The electrospun Hb-collagen microbelt modified electrode showed an excellent bioelectrocatalytic activity toward the reduction of H₂O₂. The erometric response of the biosensor varied linearly with the H₂O₂ concentration ranging from 5 × 10⁻⁶molL⁻¹ to 30×10⁻⁶molL⁻¹, with a detection limit of 0.37 × 10⁻⁶molL⁻¹ (signal-to-noise ratio of 3). The apparent Michaelis-Menten constant (K(m)(app)) was 77.7 μmolL⁻¹. The established biosensor exhibited fast erometric response, high sensitivity, good reproducibility and stability.
Publisher: Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC)
Date: 2017
DOI: 10.1039/C7NR01456B
Abstract: Enhancing the efficiency of upconversion nanoparticles (UCNPs) and therefore their brightness is the critical goal for this emerging material to meet growing demands in many potential applications including sensing, imaging, solar energy conversion and photonics. The distribution of the photon sensitizer and activator ions that form a network of energy transfer systems within each single UCNP is vital for understanding and optimizing their optical properties. Here we employ synchrotron-based X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS) to characterize the depth distribution of Yb
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 13-07-2022
Publisher: American Chemical Society (ACS)
Date: 09-03-2016
Abstract: The damage of optic nerve will cause permanent visual field loss and irreversible ocular diseases, such as glaucoma. The damage of optic nerve is mainly derived from the atrophy, apoptosis or death of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs). Though some progress has been achieved on electronic retinal implants that can electrically stimulate undamaged parts of RGCs or retina to transfer signals, stimulated self-repair/regeneration of RGCs has not been realized yet. The key challenge for development of electrically stimulated regeneration of RGCs is the selection of stimulation electrodes with a sufficient safe charge injection limit (Q(inj), i.e., electrochemical capacitance). Most traditional electrodes tend to have low Q(inj) values. Herein, we synthesized polypyrrole functionalized graphene (PPy-G) via a facile but efficient polymerization-enhanced ball milling method for the first time. This technique could not only efficiently introduce electron-acceptor nitrogen to enhance capacitance, but also remain a conductive platform-the π-π conjugated carbon plane for charge transportation. PPy-G based aligned nanofibers were subsequently fabricated for guided growth and electrical stimulation (ES) of RGCs. Significantly enhanced viability, neurite outgrowth and antiaging ability of RGCs were observed after ES, suggesting possibilities for regeneration of optic nerve via ES on the suitable nanoelectrodes.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 28-04-2022
DOI: 10.1007/S00216-022-04052-0
Abstract: The analysis of natural and anthropogenic nanomaterials (NMs) in the environment is challenging and requires methods capable to identify and characterise structures on the nanoscale regarding particle number concentrations (PNCs), elemental composition, size, and mass distributions. In this study, we employed single particle inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (SP ICP-MS) to investigate the occurrence of NMs in the Melbourne area (Australia) across 63 locations. Poisson statistics were used to discriminate between signals from nanoparticulate matter and ionic background. TiO 2 -based NMs were frequently detected and corresponding NM signals were calibated with an automated data processing platform. Additionally, a method utilising a larger mass bandpass was developed to screen for particulate high-mass elements. This procedure identified Pb-based NMs in various s les. The effects of different environmental matrices consisting of fresh, brackish, or seawater were mitigated with an aerosol dilution method reducing the introduction of salt into the plasma and avoiding signal drift. Signals from TiO 2 - and Pb-based NMs were counted, integrated, and subsequently calibrated to determine PNCs as well as mass and size distributions. PNCs, mean sizes, particulate masses, and ionic background levels were compared across different locations and environments. Graphical abstract
Publisher: American Chemical Society (ACS)
Date: 05-2017
DOI: 10.1021/ACS.NANOLETT.6B05331
Abstract: Each single upconversion nanocrystal (UCNC) usually contains thousands of photon sensitizers and hundreds of photon activators to up-convert near-infrared photons into visible and ultraviolet emissions. Though in principle further increasing the sensitizers' concentration will enhance the absorption efficiency to produce brighter nanocrystals, typically 20% of Yb
Publisher: Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE)
Date: 12-2019
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 07-2021
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 2021
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 09-2016
DOI: 10.1016/J.PEDN.2016.05.005
Abstract: This study examined the influence of neonatal nursery design on interactions between nurses and mothers of infants in the nursery. We used a natural quasi-experimental design, using semi-structured interviews and a structured measure of mothers' and nurses' perceptions of nursing care, to compare mothers (n=26 and n=40) and nurses (n=22 and n=29) in an open-bay (OB) nursery and a single family room (SFR) nursery. Thematic analysis was used to generate key themes from the interviews. Mothers and nurses in both nursery designs talked about Valuing interactions the importance of interactions between mothers and nurses. Mothers and nurses described SFRs as providing a space, My/their room, which enhanced mothers' sense of control and connection with the infant. SFRs were also associated with Changing the norms of interactions with nurses and other mothers, which created challenges in the desired quantity and quality of interactions for mothers and nurses. Nurses in the SFR nursery also reported Enhanced interactions, including improved confidentiality and personalized communication. Mothers in the OB nursery reported more supportive mothering actions from nurses than mothers in the SFR nursery. Both mothers and nurses in the OB nursery also talked about Our nursery community, which captured the value of having other nurses and mothers in the rooms. Mothers and nurses perceived that the SFR nursery enhanced privacy and maternal closeness for mothers compared to the OB nursery. However, the SFR nursery design presented challenges to some interactions of value to nurses and mothers.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 11-2014
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 02-2013
DOI: 10.1016/J.COLSURFB.2012.09.035
Abstract: This work reported a novel poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) composite nanofibres, Chitosan-graft-PLGA (CS-graft-PLGA), produced by the electrospinning technique. CS was grafted onto the PLGA surface via the cross-linking agents reacting with the PLGA with reactive carboxyl groups on its surfaces introduced from the alkali treatment. The CS grafting ratios of the electrospun CS-graft-PLGA nanofibres were about 2.43%, 4.34%, 16.97% and 39.4% after cross-linked for 12 h, 16 h, 20 h and 24 h, respectively. The electrospun CS-graft-PLGA nanofibres were significantly uniform and highly smooth without the occurrence of bead defects, even at high CS grafting ratio. The electrospun CS-graft-PLGA nanofibres not only possessed the improved hydrophilicity and the protein absorption property, but also maintained the good mechanical property. In addition, the CS grafting can be conducive to accelerate degradation rate of PLGA.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 17-08-2022
Abstract: Light scattering from nanoparticles is significant in nanoscale imaging, photon confinement. and biosensing. However, engineering the scattering spectrum, traditionally by modifying the geometric feature of particles, requires synthesis and fabrication with nanometre accuracy. Here it is reported that doping lanthanide ions can engineer the scattering properties of low‐refractive‐index nanoparticles. When the excitation wavelength matches the ion resonance frequency of lanthanide ions, the polarizability and the resulted scattering cross‐section of nanoparticles are dramatically enhanced. It is demonstrated that these purposely engineered nanoparticles can be used for interferometric scattering (iSCAT) microscopy. Conceptually, a dual‐modality iSCAT microscopy is further developed to identify different nanoparticle types in living HeLa cells. The work provides insight into engineering the scattering features by doping elements in nanomaterials, further inspiring exploration of the geometry‐independent scattering modulation strategy.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 09-2009
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 2021
Publisher: Springer International Publishing
Date: 2017
Publisher: American Chemical Society (ACS)
Date: 22-03-2021
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 12-2013
Publisher: Springer International Publishing
Date: 2020
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 02-2015
Publisher: American Chemical Society (ACS)
Date: 09-08-2016
DOI: 10.1021/ACS.JPCLETT.6B01434
Abstract: Optical biomedical imaging using luminescent nanoparticles as contrast agents prefers small size, as they can be used at high dosages and efficiently cleared from body. Reducing nanoparticle size is critical for the stability and specificity for the fluorescence nanoparticles probes for in vitro diagnostics and subcellular imaging. The development of smaller and brighter upconversion nanoparticles (UCNPs) is accordingly a goal for complex imaging in bioenvironments. At present, however, small UCNPs are reported to exhibit less emission intensity due to increased surface deactivation and decreased number of dopants. Here we show that smaller and more efficient UCNPs can be made by improving the interior crystal quality via controlling heating rate during synthesis. We further developed a unique quantitative method for optical characterizations on the single UCNPs with varied sizes and the corresponding shell passivated UCNPs, confirming that the internal crystal quality dominates the relative emission efficiency of the UCNPs.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 02-2020
Publisher: American Chemical Society (ACS)
Date: 08-05-2020
Publisher: Future Medicine Ltd
Date: 2023
Abstract: Background: Implantation of insulin-secreting cells has been trialed as a treatment for Type 1 diabetes mellitus however, the host immunogenic response limits their effectiveness. Methodology: The authors developed a core-shell nanostructure of upconversion nanoparticle-mesoporous silica for controlled local delivery of an immunomodulatory agent, MCC950, using near-infrared light and validated it in in vitro models of fibrosis. Results: The in idual components of the nanosystem did not affect the proliferation of insulin-secreting cells, unlike fibroblast proliferation (p 0.01). The nanosystem is effective at releasing MCC950 and preventing fibroblast differentiation (p 0.01), inflammation (IL-6 expression p 0.05) and monocyte adhesion (p 0.01). Conclusion: This MCC950-loaded nanomedicine system could be used in the future together with insulin-secreting cell implants to increase their longevity as a curative treatment for Type 1 diabetes mellitus.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 04-2009
DOI: 10.1016/J.BIOS.2008.12.004
Abstract: This study described the bioelectrochemistry of hemoglobin (Hb) at multiwall carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) noncovalently functionalized with biopolymers of sodium alginate (SA). The characteristics of Hb/SA-MWCNTs composite film were studied by using FT-IR spectroscopy, UV-vis spectroscopy and electrochemical methods. Hb immobilized on SA-MWCNTs composite film retained its native secondary structure, achieved direct electron transfer with the apparent heterogeneous electron transfer rate constant (k(s)) of (9.54+/-0.883) s(-1) and showed excellent bioelectrocatalytic activity to the reduction of hydrogen peroxide. The erometric response of the biosensor varied linearly with the H(2)O(2) concentration ranging from 40 to 200 microM, with a detection limit of 16.41x10(-6) M (S/N=3) and the good long-term stability. Finally, we applied this proposed method to investigate the concentration of hydrogen peroxide in real s les.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 2022
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 17-05-2023
Abstract: Here efficient organic photovoltaic devices fabricated from water‐based colloidal dispersions with donor:acceptor composite nanoparticles achieving up to 9.98% power conversion efficiency (PCE) are reported. This high efficiency for water processed organic solar cells is attributed to morphology control by surface energy matching between the donor and the acceptor materials. Indeed, due to a low interfacial energy between donor and the acceptor, no large phase separation occurs during the nanoparticle formation process as well as upon thermal annealing. Indeed, synchrotron‐based scanning transmission X‐ray microscopy reveals that the internal morphology of composite nanoparticles is intermixed as well as the active layer morphology after thermal treatment. The PCE of this system reaches 85% that of devices prepared from chlorinated solvent. The gap between water‐based inks and organic solvent‐based inks gets narrower, which is promising for the development of eco‐friendly processing and fabrication of organic photovoltaics.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 27-06-2020
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 2022
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 06-2012
DOI: 10.1016/J.COLSURFB.2012.01.017
Abstract: Surface entrapment is a convenient method to immobilize the natural macromolecules on the surface of synthetic polymers. In this study, the gelatin modified and sodium alginate/gelatin modified PLGA nanofibrous membranes were fabricated via surface entrapment and entrapment-graft techniques. The surface morphology of the each single modified PLGA nanofiber was as smooth as that of untreated PLGA nanofibers. The results of water angle contact measurements and tensile tests showed that the surface entrapment cannot only improve the hydrophilicity but also enhance mechanical properties of the modified nanofibrous membranes. In addition, the sodium alginate/gelatin modified electrospun PLGA nanofibrous membrane exhibited higher hydrophilicity and better biocompatibility than the simply gelatin modified PLGA nanofibrous membrane, which suggested the surface entrapment is a facile and efficient approach to surface modification for electrospun nanofibours membranes.
Publisher: arXiv
Date: 2022
Publisher: AIP Publishing
Date: 02-2019
DOI: 10.1063/1.5053608
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 16-09-2013
DOI: 10.1002/JBM.B.32962
Abstract: In this article, a novel composite of copper (Cu) nanoparticles and polydimethiylsiloxane (PDMS) has been prepared and investigated for the potential application in Cu-containing intrauterine device. The Cu/PDMS composite with various mass fraction of Cu nanoparticles was fabricated via the hot vulcanizing process. The chemical structures and surface morphologies of the Cu/PDMS composites were characterized confirming the physical interaction between Cu nanoparticles and PDMS. The surface morphology observation using scanning electron microscope and atomic force microscope showed the agglomeration of Cu nanoparticles in PDMS matrix and the distribution of the agglomerations was more uniform with increased amount of Cu nanoparticles. The cupric ion release behaviors of the Cu/PDMS composites with different amounts of Cu nanoparticles were investigated in simulated uterine fluid at 37°C for 150 days. The corrosion morphologies of the Cu/PDMS composites were also characterized. Both the burst release rate of the cupric ion in the first few days and the steady release rate after 30-day immersion were improved. The cytotoxicity test has been done for the Cu/PDMS composites.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 09-2019
DOI: 10.1016/J.PEC.2019.04.004
Abstract: To examine how health professionals decide whether family members require an interpreter. 69 health professionals, doctors, nurses, and allied health, from neonatal and pediatric units participated. Interviews used a verbal protocol analysis, which elicited their thoughts about using interpreters, including how they decided if an interpreter was needed. Five themes captured the decision-making process health professionals use. Of these, three themes described the goals and beliefs participants brought to their interactions with family members: Ensuring understanding, Addressing socioemotional needs, and Who decides. The theme Assessing understanding was prominent within the interaction, while the final theme was Contextual factors influencing decision making. No differences were found between mono and multilingual participants, and few differences between health professional groups. Health professionals find it difficult to assess whether a family member needs an interpreter and there is no consistency in how they make this decision, with some using heuristics and others a more systematic approach. Health professionals have beliefs about the purpose of an interpreter that potentially limit the voice of family members. Health professionals need training to assist them in decisions about whether an interpreter is needed, including a decision tool and knowledge about policies.
Publisher: Frontiers Media SA
Date: 26-05-2020
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 12-07-2020
Publisher: American Chemical Society (ACS)
Date: 25-02-2020
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 2022
DOI: 10.1016/J.ACTBIO.2021.11.006
Abstract: The existing adverse effects of copper in copper-containing intrauterine devices (Cu-IUDs) have raised concerns regarding their use. These adverse effects include burst release of cupric ions (Cu
Publisher: Emerald
Date: 13-06-2008
DOI: 10.1108/01437730810876122
Abstract: The purpose of this paper is to examine the influence of organizational level on employees' perceptions and reactions to a complex organizational change involving proposed work force redesign, downsizing and a physical move to a new hospital. Participants included executives, supervisory and non‐supervisory staff in a major tertiary hospital. Recorded in‐depth interviews were conducted with 61 employees about the positive and negative aspects of the change. A total of 12 themes were identified from content coding, including emotional responses and attitudes toward the change, issues about the management of the change process and about change outcomes. Supervisory and non‐supervisory staff referred more to conflict and isions, and expressed more negative attitudes toward the change, than did executives. Executives and supervisory staff focused more on planning challenges and potential outcomes of the change than did non‐supervisory staff. Finally, compared to other staff, executives focused more on participation in the change process and communication about the change process. This study examines the organizational change at only one time point in one organization. Perceptions of the change may change over time, and other identities like professional identity may influence perceptions. These findings suggest that change agents should consider the needs of different organizational groups in order to achieve effective and successful organizational change. This study clearly shows the impact of organizational level, identifying similarities and differences in perceptions of change across level.
Publisher: Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC)
Date: 2017
DOI: 10.1039/C7NR07010A
Abstract: A heterogeneous NaYF 4 :Yb,Tm@ZnO nanoparticle with an epitaxial interface is prepared, and it possesses an enhanced upconversion emission intensity and an excellent photocurrent response.
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 05-04-2018
Publisher: IOP Publishing
Date: 20-03-2009
Publisher: Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC)
Date: 2016
DOI: 10.1039/C6TC02990F
Abstract: We report the emission stability and reversibility of NaYF 4 :Yb 3+ ,Er 3+ core and core–shell nanocrystals at different temperatures and pH values.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 12-08-2009
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 26-05-2015
Publisher: Trans Tech Publications Ltd.
Date: 15-11-2006
Publisher: Trans Tech Publications Ltd.
Date: 15-11-2005
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 17-03-2021
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 13-02-2010
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 04-2023
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 09-2010
DOI: 10.1016/J.EJON.2010.03.006
Abstract: The Breast Care Nurse (BCN) supports people with breast cancer, co-ordinating services, and providing information and psychosocial support, yet there is ambiguity surrounding the scope of the role, with implications for both BCNs and service provision. The current studies investigated the scope of practice of BCNs from the perspective of both BCNs and other health professionals. In study 1, semi-structured in-depth interviews were conducted with 11 BCNs and 7 other key health professionals (HPs) involved in the care of those with breast cancer. Participants were questioned about the scope of practice of the BCN role and the challenges facing the role. In Study 2, 27 BCNs and 21 HPs then completed a survey asking about the importance of the different elements of practice identified in Study 1, together with the extent to which each aspect of practice was part of the day to day practice of BCNs. Provision of information and support to people with breast cancer and their families were identified as core to the role. BCNs and other health professionals differed in their perceptions of both the length and breadth of practice of the BCN, with implications for workload and burnout in BCNs, as well as multidisciplinary team functioning and patient care. Scope of practice also differed across practice contexts.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 11-2011
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 07-2010
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 06-2022
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 05-04-2019
DOI: 10.1080/10410236.2019.1598740
Abstract: Both international tourism and migration of people with low English proficiency (LEP) to Australia are increasing. Thus, health-care practitioners (HPs) increasingly use interpreters to communicate with patients with LEP. Although qualified interpreters are the most suggested and policy-endorsed mechanism for communicating with patients with LEP, family members (FMIs) are also used as interpreters. This study investigated (a) when do health professionals consider it appropriate to use FMIs and (b) what characteristics of family members health professionals believe make them suitable to act as FMIs. As part of a larger project examining the decision-making processes of HPs regarding interpreter use, 69 HPs from neonatal and pediatric departments in one hospital in Queensland Australia were interviewed. Results indicated HPs thought the appropriateness of using FMIs depended on the type of information, such that it was either completely acceptable (e.g., explaining some basic or non-medical information) or completely unacceptable (e.g., confidential information or consent). However, in an emergency, when no other options were available, FMIs were used. The characteristics of suitable FMIs included age, level of English proficiency and medical understanding, and the relationship between patient and FMI. Results were to some extent consistent with Queensland government policies but there were notable differences, including using children and regarding FMIs as first preference. Improving HP's knowledge of policies may increase their confidence in their practice and appropriate use of FMIs, thereby improving their care delivery to patients and families with LEP.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 14-01-2020
Abstract: Cancer spheroids have structural, functional, and physiological similarities to the tumor, and have become a low-cost in vitro model to study the physiological responses of single cells and therapeutic efficacy of drugs. However, the tiny spheroid, made of a cluster of high-density cells, is highly scattering and absorptive, which prevents light microscopy techniques to reach the depth inside spheroids with high resolution. Here, a method is reported for super-resolution mapping of single nanoparticles inside a spheroid. It first takes advantage of the self-healing property of a "nondiffractive" doughnut-shaped Bessel beam from a 980 nm diode laser as the excitation, and further employs the nonlinear response of the 800 nm emission from upconversion nanoparticles, so that both excitation and emission at the near-infrared can experience minimal loss through the spheroid. These strategies lead to the development of a new nanoscopy modality with a resolution of 37 nm, 1/26th of the excitation wavelength. This method enables mapping of single nanoparticles located 55 µm inside a spheroid, with a resolution of 98 nm. It suggests a solution to track single nanoparticles and monitor their release of drugs in 3D multicellar environments.
Publisher: Hindawi Limited
Date: 29-01-2022
DOI: 10.1155/2022/4743040
Abstract: The highly dispersed Co3O4 on the surface of CNTs modified with polyethylenimine (PEI) was synthesized using the hydrothermal method. In the CNT-Co3O4 composite materials, CNTs not only provide the substrate for the Co3O4 nanoparticles but also prevent their aggregation. Furthermore, the interaction between Co3O4 and CNTs modified with polyethylenimine (PEI) helps to improve the gas sensing performance. In particular, the CNT-Co3O4 composite synthesized at 190°C shows the outstanding sensitive characteristics to H2 with a lower detection limit of 30 ppm at room temperature. The obtained CNT-Co3O4 sensor displays excellent selectivity and stability to H2. The energy band model of the conductive mechanism has been built to explain the resistance change when the gas sensor is exposed to the H2. Hence, the CNT-Co3O4 composite material presents highly promising applications in H2 gas sensing.
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 27-12-2023
DOI: 10.3390/PHARMACEUTICS15010089
Abstract: Drug-delivery vehicles have garnered immense interest in recent years due to unparalleled progress made in material science and nanomedicine. However, the development of stimuli-responsive devices with controllable drug-release systems (DRSs) is still in its nascent stage. In this paper, we designed a two-way controlled drug-release system that can be promoted and prolonged, using the external stimulation of near-infrared light (NIR) and protein coating. A hierarchical nanostructure was fabricated using upconversion nanoparticles (UCNPs)—mesoporous silica as the core-shell structure with protein lysozyme coating. The mesoporous silica shell provides abundant pores for the loading of drug molecules and a specific type of photosensitive molecules. The morphology and the physical properties of the nanostructures were thoroughly characterized. The results exhibited the uniform core-shell nanostructures of ~four UCNPs encapsulated in one mesoporous silica nanoparticle. The core-shell nanoparticles were in the spherical shape with an average size of 200 nm, average surface area of 446.54 m2/g, and pore size of 4.6 nm. Using doxorubicin (DOX), a chemotherapy agent as the drug model, we demonstrated that a novel DRS with capacity of smart modulation to promote or inhibit the drug release under NIR light and protein coating, respectively. Further, we demonstrated the therapeutic effect of the designed DRSs using breast cancer cells. The reported novel controlled DRS with dual functionality could have a promising potential for chemotherapy treatment of solid cancers.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 06-2010
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 23-06-2020
Publisher: Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC)
Date: 2012
DOI: 10.1039/C2CE25420D
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 10-2012
Publisher: American Chemical Society (ACS)
Date: 19-10-2023
Publisher: American Chemical Society (ACS)
Date: 26-08-2022
Publisher: Springer International Publishing
Date: 2017
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 12-2018
DOI: 10.1111/AP.12351
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 30-01-2023
DOI: 10.1186/S12912-023-01178-Z
Abstract: Research focused on understanding what enables or hinders health professionals to speak up about a safety concern has been to date predominately atheoretical and speaker focused. However, the role the receiver of the message plays in these often-difficult encounters is highly influential. To date, speaking up programs have created conversational mnemonics that technically should respectfully engage the receiver, yet speaking up remains challenging. This paper utilises Communication Accommodation Theory to explore the impact the communication behaviour and speaker characteristics has on the receiver of a speaking up message, and if these impacts differ between receiver groups (clinical disciplines). Clinicians ( N = 208) from varying disciplines responded to two hypothetical speaking up vignettes, where participants were the receivers of speaking up messages. Analysis of variance was used to explore any potential differences between receiver groups. Findings indicated that the level of perceived accommodation and group membership, whether defined by speaker discipline or seniority, collectively influenced how the receiver of a speaking up message evaluated the interaction, which influenced their anticipated response to the speaker. The receiver’s perceptions and evaluations of the message, their own professional identity and the presence of others, influenced receivers’ anticipated responses. This has direct implications on healthcare speaking up training and provision of care, as the varying clinical disciplines received and responded to the same messages differently.
Publisher: Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC)
Date: 2020
DOI: 10.1039/D0NJ04068A
Abstract: Defective g-C 3 N 4 nanorods enable to boots the adsorption and cleavage of N 2 molecules to achieve higher photocatalytic nitrogen fixation performance.
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 25-07-2011
DOI: 10.1136/BMJ.D4423
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 13-09-2023
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 06-2010
DOI: 10.1016/J.BIOELECHEM.2009.08.009
Abstract: In this paper, carbon nanotubes-hydroxyapatite (MWCNTs-HA) composite were synthesized by self-assembling technique, and investigated by X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and FT-IR spectroscopy. Hemoglobin (Hb) immobilized in MWCNTs-HA film not only retained its similarly native conformations, but also achieved the direct electron transfer. The apparent heterogeneous electron transfer rate constant (k(s)) was evaluated as (5.05+/-0.41) s(-1) according to Laviron's equation, and the surface coverage (Gamma*) was estimated as (9.25+/-0.69)x10(-10)mol cm(-2). Moreover, the Hb immobilized in MWCNTs-HA film exhibited remarkable bioelectrocatalytic activity for the electrochemical reduction of H(2)O(2). The erometric response of the biosensor varied linearly with the H(2)O(2) concentration ranging from 0.5microM to 2microM, and the results showed a detection limit of 0.09microM. Furthermore, the Hb-immobilized MWCNTs-HA film exhibited the excellent catalytic reactivity toward trichloroacetic acid (TCA).
Publisher: American Society for Microbiology
Date: 23-11-2022
DOI: 10.1128/JVI.01274-22
Abstract: Coinfections or noninfectious triggers have long been considered to potentiate PCV2 infection, leading to manifestation of PCVAD. The triggering mechanisms remain largely unknown.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 02-2010
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 31-05-2023
Publisher: SPIE
Date: 09-12-2016
DOI: 10.1117/12.2245172
Publisher: American Chemical Society (ACS)
Date: 02-11-2020
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 27-07-2016
Abstract: Preterm birth represents an interruption to the normal development of maternal identity and is considered a highly stressful event for adult mothers. However, no research has investigated whether or how preterm birth affects the adolescent mother’s transition to motherhood. The current study aimed to explicate the experience of being a mother for adolescent women who experienced a preterm or term birth in Australia. This Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis Study analyzed interviews with 14 primiparous, English-speaking adolescent mothers (15-19 years 10 preterm and 4 full term) who participated in three interviews over a 12-month period. Findings suggested few differences in the experience of being a mother due to infant birth status. Instead, the experience of being a mother was fundamentally about transformations to the self. The young women constructed themselves differently as a result of being mothers. Changes included moving away from delinquent behaviors, development of internal resources, growth of a positive view of self, gaining meaning in their lives, and reconciling idealized and actual notions of self and other. This research adds to our understanding of how motherhood shapes the adolescent women’s lives, while also challenging our assumptions about the impact of preterm and full-term birth for adolescent mothers.
Publisher: IEEE
Date: 2018
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 08-2021
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 02-2012
DOI: 10.1016/J.ACTBIO.2011.10.018
Abstract: To solve the main problems of existing coarse grained copper (CG Cu) intrauterine devices (IUD)-namely burst release and a low transfer efficiency of the cupric ions during usage-ultra-fine grained copper (UFG Cu) and single crystal copper (SC Cu) have been investigated as potential substitutes. Their corrosion properties with CG Cu as a control have been studied in simulated uterine fluid (SUF) under different conditions using electrochemical measurement methods. Long-term immersion of UFG Cu, SC Cu and CG Cu s les in SUF at 37 °C have been studied for 300 days. A lower copper ion burst release and a higher efficiency release of cupric ions were observed for UFG Cu and SC Cu compared with CG Cu in the first month of immersion and 2 months later. The respective corrosion mechanisms for UFG Cu, SC Cu and CG Cu in SUF are proposed. In vitro biocompatibility tests show a better cellular response to UFG Cu and SC Cu than CG Cu. In terms of instantaneous corrosion behavior, long-term corrosion performance and in vitro biocompatibility, the three pure copper materials follow the order: UFG Cu>SC Cu>CG Cu, which indicates that UFG Cu could be the most suitable candidate material for intrauterine devices.
Publisher: Hogrefe Publishing Group
Date: 04-2023
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 05-2014
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 12-04-2022
DOI: 10.1002/APP.52422
Abstract: The synthesis of composite nanofiber often requires complex reaction conditions and the dimensions of the synthesized composite nanofiber are difficult to control. Electrospinning technique could tackle the issue. In this work, we firstly prepare the NaYF 4 up‐conversion material composed of double doped rare earth ions of Er 3+ and Yb 3+ . Then, the up‐conversion luminescent NaYF 4 : Yb 3+ , Er 3+ nanoparticles (NaYF 4 NPs) are encapsulated into poly(lactide‐co‐glycolide)‐gelatin (NaYF 4 ‐PLGA‐gelatin) using one‐step electrospinning process. The effect of NaYF 4 NPs on morphology, up‐conversion emission spectra, hydrophilicity, mechanical property and degradation of the electrospun NaYF 4 ‐PLGA‐gelatin nanofiber are studied in detail. The highest luminescent intensity of the electrospun NaYF 4 ‐PLGA‐gelatin nanofiber is achieved when the encapsulated content of NaYF 4 NPs is 5 mg/ml. Meanwhile, the mechanical properties of the nanofibers with this encapsulated content are also averagely higher than that of the nanofibers with other concentrations. In addition, the electrospun NaYF 4 ‐PLGA‐gelatin nanofibers with a variety of NaYF 4 NPs contents present great hydrophilicity and degradation rates. Therefore, this work provides an effective approach for the design of up‐conversion composite nanofibers and can further exploit the applications in in vivo biological imaging and tissue engineering.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 04-2022
Location: Australia
Location: Australia
No related grants have been discovered for Xiaoxue (Helen) Xu.