bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Structural Color from Multi-bounce Reflection Interference in Metalized Microstructures
Authors: Rayes Malak , Sturniolo Nathaniel , Hirsch Krista , Meredith Caleb , Zarzar Lauren
Published: August 2024

The development of materials and methods for controlling iridescent structural color arising from optical interference has attracted considerable attention for a variety of applications ranging from anticounterfeiting to displays. Here, we investigate structural color generated by multibounce reflection interference within metallized microstructures. The multi-bounce reflection interference mechanism, which was recently reported, has previously only been studied within materials where reflectivity originates from total internal reflections on a concave interface. By instead inducing reflectivity with metallization, the interference conditions are altered and different optical properties arise. Using angularly resolved far-field optical analysis and ray tracing simulations, the differences between metal-induced multibounce reflection interference and total internal reflection-induced interference are described. The incorporation of metallized optical interfaces beneficially increases microstructure reflectivity, removes the restrictions on material refractive index, and further enables the use of diverse microstructure geometries combining both concave and convex curvatures. These results provide insight into how metallization can be harnessed for designing optical interference within microstructures with improved structural color saturation and reflectivity.
Exploration of One-Pot, Tandem Sulfamoylation and Aza-Michael Cyclization Reactions for the Syntheses of Oxathiazinane Heterocycles
Authors: Sathyamoorthi Shyam , Nirpal Appasaheb , Joshi Harshit , Kelley Steven
Published: August 2024

We show the first examples of one-pot, tandem sulfamoylation/aza-Michael reactions for the preparation of oxathiazinane heterocycles from linear alkenyl alcohol precursors. Our optimized protocols are tolerant of a variety of functional groups and provide products which are amenable for further transformations. The reactions scale well, and no special precautions are required to exclude air or ambient moisture.
Neutron Imaging for Automotive Polymer Electrolyte Fuel Cells During Rapid Cold Starts
Authors: Yoshimune Wataru , Higuchi Yuki , Song Fangzhou , Hibi Shogo , Matsumoto Yoshihiro , Hayashida Hirotoshi , Nozaki Hiroshi , Shinohara Takenao , Kato Satoru
Published: August 2024

The phase transition from supercooled water to ice is closely related to the electrochemical performance and lifetime of an energy device at sub-zero temperatures. In particular, fuel cells for passenger cars face this issue because they are frequently started and stopped under sub-zero conditions during the winter season. However, there is a lack of visual information regarding the processes that occur within the fuel cell stack, and insight into how to improve the safety and performance during cold starts is lacking. In this study, we developed an operando neuron imaging system to visualize the water distribution inside an automotive single cell simulating a fuel cell stack during cold starts. This was achieved using a rapid-temperature heating unit. In addition, we showcase cold-start tests at three different sub-zero temperatures, and the obtained results suggest that pre-conditioning residual water and post-cold-start meltwater have an impact on the rapid cold-start performance.
Papertronics: Integrating Electronics and Microfluidics on Paper for Sustainable Electroanalysis
Authors: Meng Lingyin , Cao Danfeng , Pedersen Jonas Oshaug , Greczynski Grzegorz , Rogoz Vladyslav , Limbut Warakorn , Eriksson Mats
Published: August 2024

The widespread use of non-renewable materials in point-of-care (PoC) electroanalysis, such as disposable test strips with electronic meters, has inadvertently contributed to electronic waste. Paper, traditionally used as a passive substrate, offers a renewable alternative but faces limitations in direct conversion into conductive electronic components, hindering its adoption for on-site analysis. Here, we present the development of papertronics, integrating conductive electronic components and microfluidics on a single sheet of paper for sustainable electroanalysis. Using a flame retardant and laser treatment, we enable a direct conversion of cellulose paper into laser-induced graphite (PLIG). By optimizing laser parameters (e.g., laser power, scan speed and defocus/focus), the physicochemical properties of the PLIG are tailored. Microfluidic channels are patterned with sub-millimetre resolution via hot-pressing hydrophobic parafilm into paper at a relatively low temperature of 60 °C for 15 seconds. This process facilitates a seamless integration of paper-based electronic components with microfluidics. Demonstrative applications in pH sensing showed a sensitivity of -40.3 mV pH-1, and lactate biosensing achieved a sensitivity of 0.92 μA mM-1. This study establishes a foundation for cost-effective, environmentally friendly electroanalytical platforms with broad implications in biomedical diagnostics and environmental monitoring.
Kinetically Induced Memory Effect in Li-ion Batteries
Authors: Ombrini Pierfrancesco , Wang Qidi , Vasileiadis Alexandros , Wu Fangting , Gao Ziyao , Hu Xia , van Hulzen Martijn , Li Baohua , Zhao Chenglong , Wagemaker Marnix
Published: August 2024

Effective optimization and control of lithium-ion batteries cannot neglect the relation between fundamental physicochemical phenomena and performance. In this work, we apply a multi-step charging protocol to commercially relevant electrodes, such as LiNi0.8Mn0.1Co0.1O2 (NMC811), LiFePO4 (LFP), LiMn1.5Ni0.5O4 (LMNO), LiMn0.4Fe0.6PO4 (LMFP), Li4Ti5O12 (LTO) and Na3V2(PO4)3 (NVP), to investigate how the initial rate affects their kinetic response. Remarkably, electrodes undergoing phase separation exhibit a pronounced counter-intuitive memory effect under high-rate operating conditions. Using operando micro-beam X-ray diffraction, the origin is demonstrated to be embedded in the rate-dependent multi-electrode particle dynamics. Developed phase-field electrochemical models capture the ensemble behavior of electrode particles underlying the kinetically induced memory effect, establishing how the thermodynamics of the nanoscale (particle) level affects macroscopic battery behavior under realistic conditions. These results challenge established battery management strategies, opening the doors for improved characterization and optimization of fast-charging protocols, crucial in minimizing aging and heat production while enhancing energy efficiency and benefitting a wide range of battery-powered applications.
Mixed1-ethyl-3-methylimidazoliumbis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide/lithium bis(fluoromethylsulfonyl)imide based ionic liquid and carbonate co-solvents for Li-ion battery applications– analysis of transport properties using MD simulation
Authors: Wagaye Abraham Molla , Abebe Henok Brehanu , Yohannes Teketel , Workneh Getachew Adam
Published: August 2024

In this work, we examined the transport properties for different mixing ratios of 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide/lithium bis(fluoromethylsulfonyl)imide based ionic liquid and carbonate co-solvents using OPLS/AA force field. No single-solvent electrolyte can satisfy all the requirements of LIB electrolytes. For this reason, therefore, LIB electrolytes are often complex mixtures of multiple co-solvents with optimized properties. Our study finds that the addition of EC/DMC carbonate co-solvent mixtures into [EMI][TFSI]/1M LiFSI results in reduction in the values of the density of the mixture. By comparing the organic solvents EC/DMC with the IL solvents, the computed density of the pure IL/1M LiFSI system (no EC/DMC content) is higher than that of the EC/DMC/1M LiFSI system (no [EMI][TFSI] content). The relative increase in density with higher contents of IL/1M LiFSI system is suggestive of arising from the stronger interactions of [TFSI]- and [FSI]- anions with the Li+ ions as compared to the interaction of EC/DMC with Li+ ions. The behavior of the MSDs for the center-of-mass of the ions as a function of IL/carbonate co-solvent mixtures indicated that the ions exhibited slow dynamics (diffusivity) with higher carbonate content. Our study on the diffusion coefficient analysis of Li+, [FSI]- and [TFSI]- ions have revealed that the organic solvents restrict the free motion of the ions, reducing the dynamics (diffusivity) of the electrolytes. The simulation results also revealed that the total molar ionic conductivity for the different mixing ratios of IL/carbonate blends decrease with higher contents of EC/DMC co-solvents. Furthermore, the relative ionic contribution to the total molar conductivity of each individual cationic and anionic species increase with higher contents of IL in the IL/carbonate mixture, showing that higher carbonate co-solvents have the effects of reducing the molar ionic conductivity. Key words: 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium, bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide, bis(fluoromethylsulfonyl)imide, DFT, MD, OPLS/AA.
All-Natural Aggregation-Induced Emission-Active Glycyrrhizic Acid Hydrogels for Drug-Resistant Bacteria-Infected Wound Healing
Authors: Li Qing , Liu Yang , Zhang Shiqi , Yu Xinke , Liu Sili , Wan Zhili , Yuan Yang , Van der Meeren Paul , Yang Xiaoquan
Published: August 2024

Aggregation-induced emission-active (AIE-active) hydrogels with a unique integration of both luminescence behavior and gel properties have attracted increasing attention due to their advanced functionalities and applications. However, the development of biocompatible AIE-active hydrogels with superior luminescence performances and sufficient mechanical strength remains a big challenge in the biomedical field, and particularly, bioactive AIE hydrogels from naturally occurring small molecules are highly desirable for use as ideal dressings in clinical practice of infected wound healing, in terms of their strong intrinsic biological activities, good biocompatibility, as well as facile and environmentally friendly processes. Here, for the first time, we report an all-natural robust AIE-active hydrogel consisting of two natural Chinese herbal molecules, i.e. glycyrrhizic acid (GA) and berberine (BR), which can be developed as green dressings for accelerating methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA)-infected wound healing. This GN-BR hydrogel is constructed from the self-assembly of supramolecular GA nanofibrils (GN) as well as their interactions with BR molecules, leading to the formation of an aggregated fibrillar network embedded with the GN-BR particles, which endow the hydrogels with a strong fluorescence emission, excellent mechanical strength and structural recovery capacity, and interesting stimuli-responsive fluorescence features. More importantly, benefiting from the intrinsic immunoregulatory effects of GA and BR and the unique AIE properties of GN-BR assembles, the hydrogels exhibit high anti-inflammation and antibacterial abilities, especially effective photodynamic antibacterial capacity through generating reactive oxygen species under visible light. In vivo studies show that the AIE-active GN-BR hydrogels can promote MRSA-infected skin wound healing by reducing bacterial infection, inducing macrophage phenotype transformation from M1 to M2, downregulating inflammatory response, facilitating collagen deposition, and enhancing angiogenesis. This all-natural GN-BR herb hydrogel is an ideal and versatile hydrogel dressing exhibiting inherent bioactivities and remarkable AIE properties and has great potential in treating wounds infected with drug-resistant bacteria.
Separation of Lithium from Ores in Seconds
Authors: Xu Shichen , Sharp Justin , Lathem Alex , Liu Qiming , Eddy Lucas , Chen Shihui , Li Bowen , Si Tengda , Shin Jaeho , Choi Chi , Han Yimo , Yakobson Boris , Zhao Yufeng , Tour James
Published: August 2024

Lithium (Li) is the lowest density metal, and therefore an optimal element in most battery designs1,2. With the increasing demand for Li, metallurgical techniques using excess acid leaching of mineral ores are common. However, these techniques are limited by complex, multi-step processes with adverse environmental impacts caused by secondary waste streams1,3. Here, we show that flash Joule heating (FJH) can convert the earth-abundant Li ore, alpha-spodumene, into beta-spodumene in seconds, making LiCl extractable with 1 M HCl (Method A). Even more simply, we show that a one-step FJH of alpha-spodumene under an atmosphere of Cl2 (FJH-Cl2) can afford high-purity and high-yield LiCl in seconds without any acid treatment (Method B). This capitalizes upon the lower DeltaGform of the LiCl over the competing aluminum and silicon chlorides. Spodumene undergoes the FJH-Cl2 reaction at 1550 °C in seconds, whereupon LiCl immediately distills from the remaining non-volatile aluminum oxide and silicon oxide. LiCl with a 96% purity and 94% yield can be achieved in this rapid one-step process, enormously reducing costs and waste emissions. Local processing with FJH-Cl2 can dramatically lessen the complexity and cost in obtaining Li, obviating remote mining, and facilitating the world’s progression toward cleaner renewable energies2,3.
Sulfate radical anion-based degradation of metazachlor herbicide in the water and gas: A theoretical study
Authors: Truong Dinh Hieu , Nguyen Thi Ai Nhung , Taamalli Sonia , El Bakali Abderrahman , Louis Florent , Dao Duy Quang
Published: August 2024

Metazachlor (MTZ) herbicide oxidation initiated by sulfate radical anion (SO4●-) in water and gas was investigated using the density functional theory (DFT) at the M06-2X/6-311++G(3df,3pd)//M06-2X/6-31+G(d,p) level of theory. Mechanisms and kinetics of MTZ oxidation via three oxidation mechanisms were investigated, including abstraction (Abs), addition (Add), and single electron transfer (SET). Results show that most oxidation reactions are favorable and spontaneous in both phases. The overall rate constants at 298.15K in water is 5.06 × 1010 M-1 s-1 whereas the one in gas is many times higher, 1.51 × 1013 M-1 s-1. Notably, the degradation in water is non-selected with the fastest reaction being SET with 5.76 × 109 M-1 s-1 and 11.39% of the kapp and Г, respectively. On the contrary, the one in gas almost occurs via Abs reaction with the fastest one being Abs-H24 with kapp and Г values being 1.08 × 1013 M-1 s-1 and 71.76%. In addition, the influence of temperature on the degradation kinetics is evaluated. Results show that the degradation in water increases as a function of temperature (283 to 323 K), while the drawback trend is found in the gas phase from 253 to 323 K. Diving into the chemical nature of the hydrogen abstraction processes, it is noteworthy that the most predominant Abs reactions at the methyl and methylene groups occur via the proton-coupled electron transfer (PCET) mechanism. Overall, the SO4●--based degradation is an effective and potential method for removing MTZ herbicide.
pyBinder: Label-free Quantitation to Advance Affinity Selection-Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Brown Joseph S. , Lee Michael A. , Vuong Wayne , Loas Andrei , Pentelute Bradley L.
Published: August 2024

Affinity selection-mass spectrometry (AS-MS) is a ligand discovery platform that relies upon mass spectrometry to identify molecules bound to a biomolecular target. When utilized with large peptide libraries (108 members), AS-MS sample complexity can surpass the sequencing capacity of modern mass spectrometers, resulting in incomplete data, identification of few target-specific ligands, and/or incomplete sequencing. To address this challenge, we introduce pyBinder to apply label-free quantitation (LFQ) to AS-MS data to process primary MS1 data and develop two scores to rank the peptides from the integration of their peak area: target selectivity and concentration-dependent enrichment. We benchmark pyBinder utilizing AS-MS data developed against a protein, anti-hemagglutinin antibody 12ca5, revealing that peptides that contain a motif known for target-specific high-affinity binding are well characterized by these two scores. AS-MS data from a second protein target, WD Repeat Domain 5 (WDR5), is analyzed to confirm the two pyBinder scores reliably capture the target-specific motif-containing peptides. From the results delivered by pyBinder, a list of target-selective ions is developed and fed back into subsequent MS experiments to facilitate expanded data generation and the targeted discovery of selective ligands. pyBinder analysis resulted in a four-fold increase in motif-containing sequence identification for WDR5 (from 3 ligands discovered to 14 discovered), showing the utility of the two scores. This work establishes an improved approach for AS-MS to enable discovery outcomes (i.e., more ligands identified), but also a way to compare AS-MS data across samples, protocols, and conditions broadly.
Metal Ion Cofactors Modulate Integral Enzyme Activity By Varying Differential Membrane Curvature Stress
Authors: Piller Paulina , Reiterer Paul , Semeraro Enrico , Pabst Georg
Published: August 2024

Metal ions are well-known cofactors of protein function and stability. In the case of the integral membrane enzyme OmpLA (outer membrane phospholipase A) the active dimer is stabilized by calcium ions. We studied the lipid hydrolysis kinetics of OmpLA in charge-neutral and charged membranes with symmetric or asymmetric transbilayer lipid distributions. In charge-neutral membranes, OmpLA was more active in symmetric bilayers due to the lower differential curvature stress between membrane leaflets. Strikingly, this behavior was completely reversed in charged bilayers. Measurements revealed intrinsic molecular shape changes in the charged lipids upon addition of calcium. This effectively reduces the differential curvature stress in charged asymmetric membranes leading to increased protein activity. This conclusion is further supported by similar effects observed upon the addition of sodium ions, which also alter the shape of the lipids, but do not specifically interact with the protein. Additional lipid-protein interactions likely contribute to this phenomenon. Our findings demonstrate that ion cofactors not only interact directly with membrane proteins but also modulate protein activity indirectly by altering the effective molecular shape of charged lipid species.
Iterative, Programmable, and Controllable De Novo Synthesis of Fully Heteroleptic All-Carbon Substituted Silanes from Four Different Organometallic Reagents
Authors: Xu Xin , Zhang Xinyu , Wang Chao , Wang Youliang
Published: August 2024

All-carbon substituted silanes are a class of unnatural yet important compounds. To access them from SiCl4 or Si(OR)4 and organometallic reagents is intuitively the most straightforward de novo approach, which unfortunately is only applicable to homoleptic but not heteroleptic ones. Thus, alternative silyl precursors and techniques to enable controllable substitutions at silicon are highly desirable. Herein, we targeted the structurally most complicated and synthetically most challenging fully heteroleptic all-carbon substituted silanes and developed Ph3SiCl and Ph2Si(OMe)2 as the synthetic equivalent of SiCl4 or Si(OR)4 for the de novo synthesis of them. Mono-selective dephenylative etherifications of triphenyl-substituted silanes as well as diphenyl-substituted ones were key to success. Within 5-7 steps, four different carbon units from organometallic reagents could be ligated to one silicon center in a controllable, programmable, and iterative fashion. Meanwhile, unique reactivities of hexafluoroisopropoxysilanes and silanes with hemicrown ether auxiliaries in organometallic substitution reactions were disclosed.
A Design Concept Towards Water-Stable Cu-Based MOFs for Efficient Nitrate Adsorption
Authors: Naghdi Shaghayegh , Zendehbad Mohannad , Ayala Pablo , Haunold Thomas , Biswas Santu , Caspary Toroker Maytal , Weil Matthias , Rupprechter Günther , Eder Dominik
Published: August 2024

In water purification technologies, long-term stability of metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) in aqueous environments is essential for practical development. This research introduces a novel synthesis approach using dual ligands to fabricate mixed-coordination Cu-based MOFs: Cu2(Hbtc)2(bpe)2 (TUW-1) and Cu2(Hbtc)2(4,4’-bipy)2(H2O)2] (TUW-2). Both frameworks maintain their structural integrity for at least 365 days under various conditions. Additionally, they exhibit remarkable nitrate adsorption capacity of 119.42 mg g-1 and 105.93 mg g-1 for TUW-1 and TUW-2 respectively and selectivity due to free carboxylic acid groups, even under neutral pH conditions and in the presence of competing ions. The exceptional adsorption performance and stability of these MOFs make them highly promising for a wide range of applications in aqueous media.
To Compare the Effects of IV Bolus Doses Phenylephrine, And Ephedrine Injection in Maintaining Arterial Blood Pressure During Spinal Anesthesia for Cesarean Sections-A Randomized Comparative Study
Authors: Prabhuram Niranjan , TR Raghuraman , A Selvi , B Anand
Published: August 2024

Spinal anesthesia is the preferred anesthetic approach for cesarean sections due to its benefits for both the mother and fetus. However, hypotension is a common and potentially harmful complication. Phenylephrine (PE) is frequently used as a vasopressor to manage hypotension during spinal anesthesia, but it can cause maternal sinus bradycardia. This study aimed to compare two strategies for maintaining arterial blood pressure during cesarean delivery: a 20 mcg bolus of phenylephrine followed by a 10 mcg/min infusion (Group P) versus a 6 mg bolus of ephedrine followed by a 0.1 mg/min infusion (Group E). A total of 100 pregnant women scheduled for elective or emergency cesarean sections under spinal anesthesia were randomly assigned to either Group P or Group E. Systolic blood pressure was well-maintained in both groups during the first 20 minutes. After this period, Group P’s blood pressure stabilized towards basal values, while Group E's remained slightly above basal levels—a statistically significant difference (p < 0.005). Diastolic blood pressure fell in both groups, but Group E maintained slightly higher levels than Group P. Group P had a 24% incidence of bradycardia requiring atropine, while no such cases were observed in Group E. Despite these differences, overall maternal arterial blood pressure was effectively maintained in both groups, with no significant difference in uterine tone or bleeding levels.
New Business Models in Agroecology
Authors: Lianu Costin , Radulescu Irina Gabriela , Lianu Cosmin
Published: August 2024

Agroecology is a new area of knowledge and emerging body of experience linking in a transdisciplinary manner, experiments, research, and action-oriented innovations targeting enhanced food systems’ resilience, environmental and socio-economic sustainability at the farm, organizational and institutional levels. Authors view is that applying ecological principles and social values to agricultural production and consumption has to have a market recognition. This paper investigates in which conditions agroecology can also offer new business models that are more inclusive, diverse, and profitable for farmers and other food system actors especially those small farmers actioning in a regional context and willing to cooperate to co-create new business models. These business models involve the adoption of innovations such as integrated management, organic fertilizers, participatory guarantee systems, and collective marketing in a regional value chain perspective. The paper investigates as well some pathways to agroecology developed in IH Bio Danubius, a regional cluster already engaged in organic agricultural practices and willing to further embrace new agroecological principles. One important pathway, in wich our research is conducted are conditions under which private (voluntary) standards based on indicators can meet market requirement through a viable business model.
AI Is the Perfect Student: Anthropocene, Technocene, and the Ends of Intelligence
Authors: Norris Trevor
Published: August 2024

Editorial for special isssue
Beyond Reproach: Navigating Usage, Detection, and Future Pathways of AI in Education
Authors: Kumar Rahul
Published: August 2024

This essay critiques the emphasis on detecting artificial intelligence (AI) usage in student submissions and advocates for a shift towards the meaningful integration of AI in education. Citing data from Turnitin, it highlights the significant yet understated prevalence of AI in academic work. The discussion underscores the ideological, detection, and moral challenges associated with AI in education, arguing for a reconceptualization of assessment and pedagogy to accommodate AI tools ethically and effectively. It calls for collaborative efforts to redesign curricula and assessments, ensuring educators and students are equipped to navigate the evolving educational landscape. The essay concludes by emphasizing the necessity of preparing graduates for a future in which AI plays a central role in learning and professional practice.Keywords: AI usage detection, ethical AI integration, academic integrity, future of AI in education
Pre-Service Teacher Education in a Postplagiarism World: Incorporating GenAI Into Teacher Training
Authors: Eaton Sarah Elaine
Published: August 2024

This essay explores the integration of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) into pre-service teacher education amidst contemporary debates on technology in education. It highlights the cautious stance taken by educational authorities, such as the Alberta Teachers’ Association, which advises against involving students directly with AI tools. The discussion contrasts this cautionary position with global trends, noting advanced AI curricula in countries like China and Japan. Emphasizing the necessity for hands-on GenAI training for pre-service teachers, the essay advocates equipping future educators with the skills and knowledge to effectively incorporate AI into their practice. It calls for engaging students as partners in learning and rethinking traditional notions of plagiarism in a postplagiarism world where AI co-creation becomes common.Keywords: Pre-service teacher education, postplagiarism, generative artificial intelligence (GenAI), AI literacy, educational technology integration
Fostering Academic Integrity in the Digital Age: Empowering Student Voices to Navigate Technology as a Tool for Classroom Policies
Authors: Sharma Sunaina
Published: August 2024

Digital technology has transformed classrooms, enabling new teaching methods. With widespread personal technology, students’ devices can enhance learning but also cause distractions. This research amplifies secondary students’ voices, exploring how they use technology and how it should be managed. The study addresses the question: What considerations are needed for school policies on personal, digital technologies? Conducted in an Ontario secondary school with Grade 11 students, data was collected through observations, conferences, focus groups, and journaling. Findings highlight that while technology is vital for learning, it can distract users and classmates. Students want clear directives on device use and training on managing distractions. This research underscores the role of teachers in promoting responsible technology use. By involving students in policy development and providing guidance, educators can empower them to use technology effectively while maintaining academic integrity in the digital era that now includes artificial intelligence.Keywords: digital technology, school policy, student perspectives, secondary school, Ontario
In vitro and in vivo experiment of antibacterial silver nanoparticle-functionalized bone grafting replacements
Authors: Atheena Milagi Pandian S. , Rashika Murugan , Mohammed Sahil S.
Published: August 2024

Infection is a serious risk in transplant surgery and should be carefully considered while developing biomaterials. Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) are gaining popularity due to their ability to enhance antibacterial capabilities against a wide range of bacterial types. This study sought to create two antibacterial bone regenerations by incorporating AgNPs into bovine bone particles (BBX) (Product 1) and a light cross-linked hydrogel GelMA (Product 2). Scanning electron microscopy was used to characterize the constructions. PrestoBlue™ was used to assess osteoblast and osteoclast metabolic activities on the creations. Optimized AgNP functionalized BBX and GelMA were tested in a rabbit cranial 6mm defect model to assess their regeneration ability. The presence of AgNPs appears to increase. In vitro, osteoblasts proliferated more than AgNP-free controls. It is found that a 100 μg dosage of AgNPs effectively suppresses bacteria while minimizing negative effects on bone cells. The rabbit model indicated that both BBX and GelMA hydrogels loaded with AgNPs were biocompatible, with no evidence of necrosis or inflammation. Grafts functionalized with AgNPs can defend against germs while also serving as a platform for bone cell adhesion.
Biocompatibility in orthopedic implants: Advancements and challenges
Authors: Sri Manoj Kumar N. , Atheena Milagi Pandian S. , Rashika Murugan , Sudherson M. , Mohammad Sahil S.
Published: August 2024

For orthopedic implants, biocompatibility is essential to ensure that they integrate with biological systems without causing negative reactions or impairing tissue function. Orthopedic implants must be cellularly acceptable to interact with neighboring tissues, including muscle, cartilage, and bone. Implant materials should not cause cytotoxic reactions or inflammatory responses that might hinder healing or result in long-term inflammation. Progress in surface engineering and biomaterials science is discovering implants that work well with the body, benefiting patients in the long run. The biocompatibility of orthopedic implants, their interaction with surrounding tissues, and the potential for biological problems are all important aspects of their design and operation. Orthopedic implants must be successful and long-lasting to ensure biocompatibility, promote osseointegration (osteointegration), avoid biofilm development, and consider the patient's biological environment. This paper discusses biocompatibility in orthopedic implants, its advancements, and challenges.
Synthesis of zinc oxide nanoflower using egg shell membrane as template
Authors: Harminder Singh
Published: August 2024

In this study, the nanocomposite of eggshell membrane is synthesized with ZnO by the chemical bath deposition (CBD) method, and eggshell membrane, which is used as a template, and decomposed. The end product obtained is nanoflowers of zinc oxide (ZnFs). The petals of nanoflowers obtained are of hexagonal cross-section similar to the unit cell structure of zinc oxide. The CBD parameters of temperature, reaction time, and solution pH were varied extensively during this study to obtain optimized parameters for the growth of ZnFs. The obtained nanoflower structure was analyzed using various characterization techniques of Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Energy Dispersive X-Ray Spectroscopy (EDX), X-Ray Diffraction (XRD), and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR).
Contemporary approaches towards emerging visual prosthesis technologies
Authors: Rashika Murugan , Atheena Milagi Pandian S. , Mohammed Sahil S.
Published: August 2024

Genetic conditions affecting eyesight can lead to vision loss due to a variety of disorders. These include traumatic events such as car accidents or blast injuries, as well as diseases like retinitis pigmentosa, glaucoma, and macular degeneration. After an accident or explosion, the remaining portion of the eye's nerve pathway may still function, allowing electrical devices to transmit significant images to the brain through a network of electrodes. Although current devices offer relatively limited vision, there has been significant progress since the initial proof of concept. Three devices have been approved for general use in various regions around the world, and several more are currently undergoing approval. The prospects for widespread adoption of device-based treatments for vision loss are promising. Much of the recent progress is due to advancements in semiconductors and biological compatibility. To create artificial vision and restore functionality, a camera or other image source electrically stimulates the residual healthy cells or tissues.
Dietary fiber of jicama (Pachyrhizus erosus L., Fabaceae) tuber ameliorates
kidney structure and function in mice fed with high-sucrose drink
Authors: Santoso P. , Raniyah N. , Octavian R. , Maliza R.
Published: August 2024

Frequent consumption of high-sugar drinks (HSD) including sugar-sweetened beverages
has been associated with the development of kidney disease. Otherwise, proper intake of
dietary fiber extracted from the tuber of jicama (Pachyrhizus erosus L., Fabaceae) is
shown to exert counteractive effects against HSD-induced metabolic syndrome including
diabetes. However, it remains unelucidated whether the incorporation of jicama fiber in
the diet could exert a beneficial effect on kidney function. This study aimed to elucidate
the protective effect of jicama fiber in the diet against kidney disease caused by HSD. A
total of thirty adult male albino mice were randomly assigned into three groups, the
control group (fed with distilled water drink and standard diet), the high-sucrose drink
group (HSD; fed with 30% sucrose solution drink and standard diet), and the high-sucrose
drink + JF group (HSD + JF; fed with 30% sucrose drink and a standard diet
supplemented with 25% of jicama fiber). The treatments were performed for ten weeks
followed by the measurements of fasting blood glucose, plasma creatinine and kidney
indices including urine protein, urine specific gravity, and refractive index and the
examination of histopathological alterations in the kidney. The results demonstrated that
the incorporation of JF in the diet at the dose of 25% could effectively counteract the
elevation of fasting blood glucose and indicators of kidney damage including plasma
creatinine, urine protein, urine specific gravity, and urine refractive index caused by HSD.
However, JF failed to prevent HSD-induced mass reduction of the kidney but could
ameliorate histopathological alterations in the kidney. Furthermore, JF effectively
prevented tubular atrophy and fibrosis in the kidney in HSD-treated mice. Therefore,
supplementation of the diet with JF at the dose of 25% could be effective in protecting the
kidney against HSD. Thus, proper consumption of dietary fiber of jicama tuber has the
potential to reduce HSD-induced kidney disease.
Conceptions of Other and Self-Directed Compassion In Relation To Anxiety
Authors:   , Webb Olivia
Published: August 2024

It is known that self-compassion-based interventions can be helpful in alleviating a number of mental health problems and indeed in alleviating symptoms of anxiety. Although a considerable amount of attention has focused on self-compassion, many critique this work for being a solely stand-alone Western practice. To date, no research has examined compassion toward others and self together in an explorative way, and further, in relation to anxiety. This limits our understanding in providing culturally contextual therapeutic support for those navigating anxiety in New Zealand. This research uses Buddhist values relating to compassion as the inspiration for interviews with a non-clinical population group residing in Wellington, New Zealand (N = 20).

The present study examines the meaning surrounding compassion for others and self using two groups with differing anxiety levels. A comparative thematic analysis derived 8 themes in total for each of the two groups. For the lower anxiety group the themes were: Self-kindness, Dynamic Compassion, Genuine Care and Understanding as well as Harmony. The higher anxiety group produced themes of: Holistic Wisdom, Self-care, Kindness and Unity. Participants' reflections suggested that they saw compassion as an honourable quality which helped to create cohesion in society. Self-directed compassion was also seen as a positive quality worth cultivating, however its practice was cited as being a tough process. These findings shed light on how those with differing levels of anxiety may best be supported in their journey towards more compassion for themselves. This research concludes by considering how compassion focused modalities can be best suited to a New Zealand cultural context.
Unpacking Racial Relevance in Emergency Calls
Authors:   , Winthrop Paige
Published: August 2024

Psychological research has extensively explored the consequences of racial categorisation, contributing to the emergence of race-related issues. However, research has largely overlooked the examination of how individuals orient and mobilise race categories, which is an aspect crucial to the development of racial issues. Given that race-related issues are fundamentally rooted in people’s utilisation of racial categories as a foundation for social action, it is of relevance to investigate the pertinence of these categories in people’s talk. This involves not only investigating the explicit mentions of racial categories but also delving into the inferences and common-sense knowledge packaged with them in interaction. In this thesis, I used the theoretical framework of discursive psychology to apply both conversation (CA) and membership categorisation analysis (MCA) to examine where and how race becomes relevant in institutional talk, specifically in emergency calls reporting family harm and violence. Although literature conducting CA and MCA on race is existent, literature has been focal on race talk in ordinary interaction as opposed to institutional settings. Therefore, this thesis analyses racial relevance in the institutional talk of emergency calls. Examining emergency calls is advantageous as it captures both representatives of the institution (call-takers) and members of the public (callers) orientation and mobilisation of race categories in interaction. This thesis analyses the intricate dynamics of racial expression and the utilisation of racial common-sense in the context of either seeking or providing emergency services.

In my thesis, race was found to be initiated in various phases in the emergency call, particularly within the interrogative series of person descriptions. When describing the subject of the complaint, inquiries for racial categories were utilised as predicates of appearance, mobilising common-sense understandings of the visual attributes tied to race categories. The call-taker employed a diverse array of linguistic strategies to broach discussions on racial categories. These linguistic strategies highlighted the necessity for a careful and deliberate approach when inquiring about race, orientating to race as a sensitive and delicate topic of discussion. Furthermore, a notable deviant case is presented wherein the description of the person differed from other calls that included race as a pertinent descriptor within the series of person descriptions, to demonstrate how certain race categories can be treated as relevant and identifiable compared to others. My thesis findings bear academic significance, as they contribute to the limited body of literature addressing racial relevance in emergency services and offer empirical implications and practical applications for improving the responsiveness of these crucial services.
Maximum likelihood recursive state estimation: Exact and robust filtering equations with MSE stability
Authors: Surya Budhi
Published: August 2024

This paper revisits Mortensen (1968) and proposes a novel statistical method for maximum likelihood (ML) recursive state estimation in a general continuous-time stochastic systems. The main feature of the new method lies on a fine interconnection between complete-information loglikelihood of the stochastic systems under consideration and the value function of the corresponding optimal control problem of the ML estimation. This appealing feature is notably lack in the recursive minimum energy estimation Hijab(1980) and Krener(2003). Extending the results of Surya(2024) to continuous time, distributional identities of the score function and information matrix of state are derived. Using these identities and perturbation method, the exact filtering equations are established. They represent the dynamics of ML estimator (MLE) and gain matrix taking a general form of Riccati equation, which admits an unique positive definite solution with monotone decreasing upper bound. These properties are used to show that the MLE has mean-squared-error stability under uniform observability of the systems. The results agree with the Kalman and Bucy (1961) filters for linear systems and generalize Mortensen (1968), Hijab (1980), Benes (1981) and Krener (2003) for nonlinear systems. A new form of Cramer-Rao lower bound is derived for the covariance matrix of state estimation errors. It leads to a robust formulation of the optimal filter having the least covariance matrix of estimation errors. The Runge-Kutta 4th order method is used for numerical solution of the optimal filtering equations under time-discretization of the stochastic systems. Particle filtering is developed to compare against the performance of the ML estimator. Numerical studies show that the exact filtering equations provide faster and more accurate estimation than the particle filtering.
Analysis of the Feedback on Teacher Training in an Affiliated Hospital in Shaanxi Province
Authors: Feng Yu , Jia Yuanyuan , Cai Yu , Tian Chang , Wang Siqi
Published: August 2024

Objective: This article aims to deeply analyze the feedback on teacher training in an affiliated hospital, so as to clarify the current needs and situation of teacher training and provide a scientific basis for further optimizing the teacher training system. Methods: The current situation and needs of teacher training in the affiliated hospital were collected by designing and distributing Tomato Form questionnaires on the DingTalk platform. The questionnaire adopted a percent-point system, all of which were indeterminate multiple-choice questions. Results: The average age of the clinical teachers participating in the survey was 40.44 ± 7.85 years old, with an average teaching length of 4–10 years. The results showed that 60.20% of teachers think that the amount of teacher training in an affiliated hospital is sufficient; 91.10% of teachers think that the factors affecting training conflict with working hours; 97.96% of teachers believe that the training time has an impact on the training effect; 81.63% of teachers prefer online training; 51.53% of teachers tend to arrange training time on working days; 33.16% of teachers tend to train once a month; 17.78% of teachers prefer to receive training on clinical theoretical courses and practical teaching norms and skills content. Conclusion: Based on the above survey results, we propose to build a comprehensive management mechanism for teacher training, including improving the access, training, and assessment mechanism for clinical teachers, and adjusting and optimizing the training program according to actual needs. At the same time, an effective communication platform should be built to promote the deep integration of teaching and practice and enhance social recognition, so as to comprehensively improve the teaching quality and medical service of the hospital.
The Insights and Influence of the Sydney Accord on the Teaching Reform of Vocational Education in China: A Case Study of Professional Curriculum Achievement Evaluation
Authors: Zhou Weijian , Zhan Qijun , Yang Liu , Wang Dan , Yin Ping , Liu Na
Published: August 2024

Scientific curriculum evaluation methods are critical for achieving talent training objectives. The Sydney Accord, one of the three major engineering education certification agreements, focuses on the training of “engineering technologists.” Its logical system and three core principles align well with the connotation development of professional construction in China’s higher vocational colleges, offering significant insights for promoting reform and development in engineering education in Chinese colleges and universities. By incorporating the core principles, elements, and graduate quality defined in the Sydney Accord and focusing on the evaluation of curriculum achievement against “graduation requirements,” the quality of vocational education can be enhanced, making it an important direction for future teaching reforms in vocational education.
Chip Surface Character Recognition Based on OpenCV
Authors: Yin Lihang
Published: August 2024

Chip surface character recognition is an important part of quality inspection in the field of microelectronics manufacturing. By recognizing the character information on the chip, automated production, quality control, and data collection and analysis can be achieved. This article studies a chip surface character recognition method based on the OpenCV vision library. Firstly, the obtained chip images are preprocessed. Secondly, the template matching method is used to locate the chip position. In addition, the surface characters on the chip are individually segmented, and each character image is extracted separately. Finally, a Support Vector Machine (SVM) is used to classify and recognize characters. The results show that this method can accurately recognize the surface characters of chips and meet the requirements of chip quality inspection.
Perlindungan Hukum Dalam Kontrak Kerjasama Industri Ritel Antara Distributor dan Agen Distributor (Studi Kasus : Perjanjian Kontrak Antara PT. A dan CV. B)
Authors: Tjoandra Michael , Judge Zulfikar
Published: August 2024

Tujuan dari penelitian ini adalah untuk mengkaji dan menganalisis mekanisme dan perlindungan hukum bagi para pihak dalam kontrak kerjasama industri ritel antara produsen dan agen distributor. Metode penelitian yang digunakan adalah penelitian hukum yuridis normatif atau penelitian kepustakaan. Kajian pustaka ini menggunakan berbagai data sekunder seperti bahan hukum primer. Hasil kajian menemukan bahwa mekanisme kontrak kerjasama industri ritel antara produsen dan agen distributor dituangkan dan ditandatangani bersama dalam Perjanjian Keagenan Nomor: JKT/MICPG/128/2016, dibuat di Jakarta pada tanggal 20 Januari 2016. Perlindungan hukum bagi pihak yang dirugikan oleh kontrak kerja sama industri ritel antara produsen dan agen distributor berdasarkan Perjanjian Keagenan. Sebagai bentuk perlindungan hukum, pihak yang dirugikan dapat mengajukan gugatan ke Pengadilan Negeri, dimana dalam putusan tersebut tergugat harus mengembalikan pinjaman modal usaha kepada penggugat sebesar Rp. 460.000.000,- (empat ratus enam puluh juta rupiah) secara tunai dan segera. Adanya putusan tersebut menggambarkan bahwa terdakwa tidak mendapat perlindungan hukum, karena berdasarkan fakta-fakta di persidangan, terdakwa tidak wanprestasi.
SANKSI PIDANA BAGI PEMILIK APOTEK TERHADAP PENJUALAN OBAT DAFTAR G SECARA ILEGAL
Authors: Purwaningsih Dewi , Widiastuti Anggita Atika
Published: August 2024

The illegal sale of G-list drugs by pharmacy owners is a practice that violates the law and has the potential to endanger public health. This study aims to analyze the role of criminal witnesses and the challenges faced by law enforcers in prosecuting pharmacies selling illegal G-list drugs. The research method used is document analysis and interviews with related parties. The results of the study show that criminal witnesses play an important role in disclosing facts related to the illegal sale of List G drugs. Their testimony is vital evidence in the law enforcement process to bring perpetrators to justice. However, the process of providing testimony at trial faced several challenges, including threats to witness safety, intimidation, and harassment that could affect the integrity of testimony.