Uniform self-forming metallic network as a high-performance transparent conductive electrode

A transparent, conductive, and flexible electrode is demonstrated. It is based on an inexpensive and easily manufacturable metallic network formed by depositing metals onto a template film. This electrode shows excellent electro-optical properties, with the figure of merit ranging from 300 to 700, and transmittance from 82% (~4.3 Ω sq(-1) ) to 45% (~0.5 Ω sq(-1) ).

Direct growth of individual carbon nanotubes on a flexible plastic substrate via selective heating

The deficiency of carbon nanotube (CNT) growth on temperature-sensitive substrates such as plastic tapes impedes the further progress in CNT electronics. We report a novel method that is able to offer the solution by selectively delivering energy via high radio frequency heating to carbon atoms for their catalytic assembly into individual CNTs. Direct growth of CNTs on a flexible kapton substrate was demonstrated. A mechanism of selective heating was discussed.

Highly efficient molecular delivery into mammalian cells using carbon nanotube spearing

Introduction of exogenous DNA into mammalian cells represents a powerful approach for manipulating signal transduction. The available techniques, however, are limited by low transduction efficiency and low cell viability after transduction. Here we report a highly efficient molecular delivery technique, named nanotube spearing, based on the penetration of nickel-embedded nanotubes into cell membranes by magnetic field driving. DNA plasmids containing the enhanced green fluorescent protein (EGFP) sequence were immobilized onto the nanotubes, and subsequently speared into targeted cells. We have achieved an unprecedented high transduction efficiency in Bal17 B-lymphoma, ex vivo B cells and primary neurons with high viability after transduction. This technique may provide a powerful tool for highly efficient gene transfer into a variety of cells, especially the hard-to-transfect cells.

The safety and efficacy of granisetron in postoperative vomiting in pediatric patients undergoing tonsillectomy

A high incidence of vomiting after tonsillectomy is consistently reported in the literature. Multiple trials with different pharmacological agents and alternative anesthetic techniques have been used in an attempt to decrease this, but results have been inconclusive and adverse effects occur frequently. The purpose of this study was to examine the safety and efficacy of granisetron (Kytril) in the prevention of postoperative vomiting in children undergoing tonsillectomy. Fifty-four patients were included in this study. The study population was divided into an experimental (n = 28) and control group (n = 26) using a randomized double-blinded technique. The experimental group was treated with granisetron 10 micrograms/kg intravenously (IV) and the control group received saline solution IV. Episodes of vomiting were recorded throughout the hospital stay and for the 24 hours after surgery. A reduction in the incidence and severity of vomiting was shown to be significant in the experimental group, both in the hospital and at 24 hours postoperatively. High patient satisfaction was also reported in this group. Clinically, the prophylactic administration of granisetron intraoperatively in pediatric tonsillectomy patients should be considered to reduce the incidence and severity of postoperative vomiting.