bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of serum exosome isolation methods on co-precipitated free microRNAs
Authors: Cheng Yirui , Qu Xiangyun , Dong Zhaonan , Zeng Qingyu , Ma Xueqing , Jia Yunli , Li Ruochen , Jiang Xiaoxu , Williams Cecilia , Wang Tao , Xia Weiliang
Published: August 2020

Background

Exosomes are nano-sized extracellular vesicles containing different biomolecules such as proteins and microRNAs (miRNAs) that mediate intercellular communication. Recently, numerous studies have reported the important functions of exosomal miRNAs in disease development and the potential clinical application as diagnostic biomarkers. Up to now, the most commonly used methods to extract exosomes are ultracentrifugation (UC) and precipitation-based commercial kit (e.g., ExoQuick). Generally, both UC and ExoQuick method could co-isolate contaminating proteins along with exosomes, with the UC method yielding even purer exosomes than ExoQuick. However, the comparison of these two methods on co-precipitated free miRNAs is still unknown.

Methods

In this study, we isolated exosomes from the human serum with exogenously added cel-miR-39 by UC and ExoQuick and compared the proportion of cel-miR-39 co-precipitated with exosomes extracted by these two methods.

Results

Using exogenous cel-miR-39 as free miRNAs in serum, we concluded that ExoQuick co-isolates a small proportion of free miRNAs while UC hardly precipitates any free miRNAs. We also found that incubation at 37 °C for 1 h could decrease the proportion of free miRNAs, and exosomal miRNAs like miR-126 and miR-152 also decreased when RNase A was used. In conclusion, our findings provide essential information about the details of serum exosome isolation methods for further research on exosomal miRNAs.
Defluoridation Potential of Rice Husk, Groundnut Shell as a Conventional Alternative for Fluoride Removal – A Review
Authors: Pratha A. Ashwatha , Prabakar Jayashri
Published: August 2020

Fluoride occurs naturally in our environment but we consume it in small amounts. Exposure can occur through dietary intake, respiration and fluoride supplements. The most important factor for fluoride presence in alimentation is fluoridated water. Fluoride content in groundwater has become a national issue affecting the entire India. When the recommended limit of fluoride by WHO is 1.5 mg/L, in some particular parts of India fluoride levels are as high as 35 mg/l. Increased fluoride intake causes dental fluorosis, skeletal fluorosis and neurological problems. Major problems associated with fluoride remediation are lack of cheap adsorbent to remove fluoride content in water for poor communities of India. Hence, development of community-based defluoridation unit is needed with a technique which is cost-effective, technologically simple in operation while being able to keep the fluoride level in permissible limits. On the basis of extensive investigations, different researchers have developed simple and economical domestic defluoridation processes. The present review gives a brief account of prevalence, sources of fluoride toxicity and cost effective defluoridation method carried out on effects of fluoride in the last few decades. Thus cost effective absorbent which has high efficacy in fluoride removal from water can be provided to poor communities thereby preventing fluorosis.
Frequency of Adhesive Virulence Factor fimH among the Clinical Isolates of Acinetobacter baumannii in India
Authors: Padmaja S. , Smiline Girija A. S. , Priyadharsini J. Vijayashree
Published: August 2020

The objective of the study was to detect the presence of fimH gene among the drug resistanst strains of Acinetobacter baumannii. fimH gene was found to be associated with a catch bond mechanism which led to better evolution of biofilm formation. Since there are not many studies done with this gene it would be a timely investigation and this study mainly aims in molecular characterization of fimH gene among clinical isolates of A. baumannii. Semi quantitative bio adherent assay was done by the multidrug resistant strains of A. baumannii to find the formation of biofilm. The DNA was extracted with the help of kit and PCR was performed for amplification. Pearson correlation analysis was done to find the existing correlation between the fimH gene and MDR strains of A. baumannii with significant p-value of (<0.05). From the screened 73 genomes of MDR A. baumannii 6.8% showed positive amplicons for the fimH gene which were related to biofilm and porin formation (Fig. 1). Correlation of its existence was high in beta lactamase (100%), cephems (100%), folate (100%) resistant strains, followed by aminoglycosides (80%), carbapenems (60%) and fluoroquinolones (60%) and efflux pumps (20%). In Spite of various measures undertaken to prevent the disease, the prevalence of the pathogen is multiplying. The current study recorded the presence of fimHgene (6.8%) among the clinical isolates of A.baumannii. This gene can be used as a target to develop new drugs and vaccines to combat the menace of A.baumannii infection.
Frequency of Chromosomally Encoded gyrA and parC Genetic Determinants of Fluoroquinolone Resistance in A. baumannii
Authors: Singh Amit Kumar , Girija A. S. Smiline , Priyadharsini J. Vijayashree , Paramasivam A.
Published: August 2020

Fluoroquinolones are administered as routine drugs of choice for treating complicated urinary tract infections caused by multidrug resistant Acinetobacter baumannii strains. It is now a world-wide issue that gyr and par induced quinolone resistance as one of the major drug resistance mechanisms. This investigation is thus aimed to assess the prevalence of quinolone resistance and to characterize the gyrA and parC producing strains of A. baumannii. Genomic DNA from 50 fluoroquinolone resistant A. baumannii were screened for gyrA and parC by PCR for the genetic relatedness with fluoroquinolone resistance, with sequencing of the representative strains. All the strains were positive for gyrA(100%) and 82% (n=41) for parC. Presence of parC was observed in 56.09% (n=23) ciprofloxacin resistant A. baumannii with 43.90% (n=18) in levofloxacin resistant A. baumannii. The findings of the present study showed the prevalence of fluoroquinolone resistance among A. baumannii in urinary tract infections and the frequency of gyrA and parC in inducing the resistance.
Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice among Dentists towards Oral Herpetic Infections
Authors: Ahamed A. Ashik , Ganapathy Dhanraj , Subhashree R. , Rakshagan V.
Published: August 2020

During the course of the oral examination or during procedures, dentists, auxiliaries, and other healthcare personnel have an increased chance of getting exposed to various pathogens. There were about 80 known herpes viruses, and in that at least eight of them are known to cause infections in humans. Herpes labialis also known as cold sores is the most common orofacial form of recurrent HSV infection. The dentist should have a clear knowledge of herpetic infections because they are frequently exposed to patients who suffer from HSV infections.  A close-ended questionnaire comprising 10 questions regarding encompassing major aspects of herpetic infections were prepared and distributed among dentists through an online survey. Data were tabulated and analyzed by computing the percentage response for each question. Proper awareness should be created among dentists for treating patients in their clinical practice. From this survey, it can be concluded that the majority of dental practitioners were aware of oral herpetic infections.
Estimation of Optimal Opening Rate of Rahmen Bridge with Open Wall through Moment Analysis of Corner
Authors: Park Sun-Joon , Kim Yeongseok , Kim Ikjoong , Cho Sunhee , Hong Namkyung , Kang Dae-Hung
Published: August 2020

The earth pressure acting on the wall of a Rahmen bridge generates significant bending moments at the corners. These moments create problems in the wall in terms of stability and economy. In this study, a Rahmen bridge with an open wall was adopted to solve the problems highlighted above, and its optimal opening rate was estimated. Structural analysis was performed for 36 analytical cases by applying the limit state design method according to lengths of 20 and 15 m for the closed height ratio (h/H) and closed width ratio (b/B) of the wall. Within the scope of this study, in the Rahmen bridge with a 20 m span, it is desirable to design an open wall to satisfy the 0.4 ≤ h/H ≤ 0.614 and 0.75 ≤ b/B < 1 conditions when adequate reinforcement is provided at the wall end in contact with the haunch. Additionally, an open wall should be designed for the 15 m span Rahmen bridge to satisfy the conditions of 0.229 ≤ h/H ≤ 0.586 and 0.833 ≤ b/B < 1 when suitable reinforcement is provided at the slab end in contact with the haunch. Therefore, the Rahmen bridge with an open wall can be used instead of the conventional Rahmen bridge, considering the economy and on-site applicability factors.
A Case Study on the Vulnerability of the Elderly in Floodplains: Focused on Gijang, Busan
Authors: Park Hyungjun , Seo Segyo , Lee Dalbyul , Jung Juchul
Published: August 2020

The aging of our cities is intensifying, and the cities face a high risk of severe damage from natural disasters. The elderly population is especially vulnerable to economic capacity and living conditions. However, previous research has not documented case studies of the elderly population in the context of climate justice. In this regard, this study found that the vulnerability of the elderly population increased in flooded areas of Gijang-gun in Busan in 2014. Based on correlation analysis, this study indicated that the elderly population has a weak economic capacity. In addition, there were several aging buildings in flooded areas, and the elderly population grew rapidly. Therefore, to enhance climate justice for the elderly population in flooded areas, policymakers should consider both economic status and residential environment.
Commissioning of a motion management system for a 1.5T Elekta Unity MR‐Linac: A single institution experience
Authors: Smith Blake R , St‐Aubin Joel , Hyer Daniel E.
Published: February 2025

Purpose

This work describes a single institution experience of commissioning a real‐time target tracking and beam control system, known as comprehensive motion management, for a 1.5 T Elekta MR‐Linac.

Methods

Anatomical tracking and radiation beam control were tested using the MRI4D Quasar motion phantom. Multiple respiratory breathing traces were modeled across a range of realistic regular and irregular breathing patterns ranging between 10 and 18 breaths per minute. Each of the breathing traces was used to characterize the anatomical position monitoring (APM) accuracy, and beam latency, and to quantify the dosimetric impact of both parameters during a respiratory‐gated delivery using EBT3 film dosimetry. Additional commissioning tasks were performed to verify the dosimetric constancy during beam gating and to expand our existing quality assurance program.

Results

It was determined that APM correctly predicted the 3D position of a dynamically moving tracking target to within 1.5 mm for 95% of the imaging frames with no deviation exceeding 2 mm. Among the breathing traces investigated, the mean latency ranged between −21.7 and 7.9 ms with 95% of all observed latencies within 188.3 ms. No discernable differences were observed in the relative profiles or cumulative output for a gated beam relative to an ungated beam with minimal dosimetric impact observed due to system latency. Measured dose profiles for all gated scenarios retained a gamma pass rate of 97% or higher for a 3%/2 mm criteria relative to a theoretical gated dose profile without latency or tracking inaccuracies.

Conclusion

MRI‐guided target tracking and automated beam delivery control were successfully commissioned for the Elekta Unity MR‐Linac. These gating features were shown to be highly accurate with an effectively small beam latency for a range of regular and irregular respiratory breathing traces.
Investigation on the Microstructural Evolution and Mechanical Properties of Ti/Al/Ti Clad Sheets via Cryorolling and Annealing
Authors: Song Lingling , Peng Xinyao , Gao Haitao , Wang Zhengyu , Cui Huijie , Fouly Ahmed , Kong Charlie , Yu Hailiang
Published: February 2025

The Ti/Al/Ti clad sheets were fabricated through hot rolling (HR) and cryorolling (CR), followed by annealing treatment. The influences of cryogenic deformation and different annealing temperatures on the microstructure and mechanical properties of clad sheets were systematically investigated. Results showed that the CR clad sheet exhibited the highest tensile strength of 507 MPa. CR can fabricate the clad sheet with good interfacial bonding quality, devoid of defects such as pores and cracks. Moreover, CR introduced significant fine‐grain strengthening and dislocation strengthening effects. After annealing, the Ti and Al layers underwent varying degrees of recovery and recrystallization, thereby improving the elongation of clad sheets, and attained optimal elongation at 773 K (28.3%). During annealing, the element diffusion layer thickness at the interface gradually increased with temperature, along with the enhancement of the metallurgical bonding effect, resulting in improved interfacial bonding strength. However, the mechanical properties of the clad sheet decreased at 823 K because of the production of TiAl3 intermetallic compounds. The rolling and heat treatment processes utilized in this study provide valuable insights into the production of high‐performance Ti/Al/Ti clad sheets.
Interlayer Assembly of Thin‐Film Composite Membranes With Ultra‐Interfacial Adhesion
Authors: Sang Chao , Zhang Siyuan , Li Geng , Wu Hanzhu , Pang Siyu , Zhuang Yan , Wang Lankun , Dong Shilong , Yao Songyuan , Lu Lu , Si Zhihao , Cao Peng‐Fei , Qin Peiyong
Published: February 2025

Thin‐film composite (TFC) membranes are considered as an effective architecture to achieve selective separation for various application scenarios. However, most polymeric separation layers are in physically contacted with an underlying porous substrate, where the physical exfoliation or over‐swelling of the selective layer severely shortens the usage lifespan. In this work, a novel interlayer assembly design is proposed to realize a polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS)/polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) TFC membrane with ultra‐interfacial adhesion via the UV‐triggered covalent attachment. Especially, by overcoming the chemical inertness of PVDF, the synthetic methacrylate‐functionalized PVDF substrate is rapidly copolymerized with the methacrylate‐functionalized PDMS layer. It shows that the critical load for selective layer failure is 56.92 mN with applied nano‐scratch, 59% higher than the pristine one and also being the highest interfacial strength among the reported state‐of‐the‐art ones. The resulting membrane also shows an excellent pervaporation performance for phenol than the pristine one, and a stable running with an average separation factor of 7.3 and membrane flux of 3142 g m−2 h−1 under extreme conditions (e.g., high phenol concentration of 20 wt.% and high temperature of 80 °C). This interlayer chemically bonded design principle provides a scalable approach to develop ultra‐stable and efficient‐separation TFC membranes adaptable to various separation purposes.
Quantum Light Generation with Ultra‐High Spatial Resolution in 2D Semiconductors via Ultra‐Low Energy Electron Irradiation
Authors: Dash Ajit Kumar , Yadav Sharad Kumar , Roux Sebastien , Singh Manavendra Pratap , Watanabe Kenji , Taniguchi Takashi , Naik Akshay , Robert Cedric , Marie Xavier , Singh Akshay
Published: February 2025

Single photon emitters (SPEs) are building blocks of quantum technologies. Defect engineering of two‐dimensional (2D) materials is ideal to fabricate SPEs, wherein spatially deterministic and quality‐preserving fabrication methods are critical for integration into quantum devices and cavities. Existing methods use combination of strain and electron irradiation, or ion irradiation, which make fabrication complex, and limited by surrounding lattice damage. Here, only ultra‐low energy electron beam (e‐beam) irradiation (5 keV) is utilized to create dilute defect density in hBN‐encapsulated monolayer MoS2, with ultra‐high spatial resolution (<50 nm, extendable to 10 nm). Cryogenic photoluminescence spectra exhibit sharp defect peaks, following power‐law for finite density of single defects, and characteristic Zeeman splitting for MoS2 defect complexes. The sharp peaks have low spectral jitter (<200 µeV), and are tunable with gate‐voltage and e‐beam energy. Use of low‐momentum electron irradiation, ease of processing, and high spatial resolution, will disrupt deterministic creation of high‐quality SPEs.
Synergizing Radiation Regulation and Cross‐Band Stealth with Passive Folded Metasurfaces
Authors: Wang Zanyang , Song Lu , Zhang Xuchun , Wang Xin , Wang Zuojia , Chen Hongsheng , Li Min , Liao Dashuang
Published: February 2025

Radiation‐stealth integration, merging radiation regulation and scattering suppression into a unified framework, is essential for advanced radar communications and stealth technology. However, current state‐of‐the‐art solutions that simultaneously modulate radiation and stealth characteristics encounter two main challenges: limited scalability due to high energy demands from active components, and constrained stealth bandwidth stemming from the inherent incompatibility between radiation and scattering. Here, passive folded metasurfaces (PFM) that integrate radiation regulation with stealth capabilities, eliminating the necessity for active components while achieving both in‐ and off‐band stealth, referred to as cross‐band stealth, are proposed. The PFM employs a hybrid architecture, cascading a quad‐focal asymmetric metasurface (QFAM) and a polarization‐conversion meta‐mirror (PCM) incorporated with patterned feed arrays. The QFAM leverages local quad‐focal phases and polarization selectivity to regulate radiation modes generated by encoded‐excited feeds, enabling efficient beamforming reconfiguration without active components. Furthermore, the synergy between the QFAM and PCM dissipates in‐band impinging waves through internal reflections and absorptions, while off‐band waves undergo destructive interference enabled by checkboard‐patterned modulators atop the QFAM, achieving cross‐band stealth. To validate the capabilities of the proposed PFM, a prototype is fabricated and its versatile radiation‐stealth functionalities, including 1D narrow‐ and wide‐beam scanning, 2D beamforming, and cross‐band stealth, are experimentally demonstrated.
Ultra‐High Freshwater Production Via Coupling Photo‐/Electro‐Thermal Self‐Heating and Self‐Insulating Janus Membrane
Authors: Dong Chuanshuai , Lin Weiquan , Li Zipai , Chen Lei , Tang Zhixian , Lu Fenglian , Qi Ronghui , Lu Lin , Zhang Lizhi
Published: February 2025

Thermally driven membrane distillation (TDMD) has emerged as a promising seawater desalination technology to address the freshwater shortage and energy crisis. However, the conventional “bulk‐heating” technologies results in serious temperature polarization phenomenon, hindering efficient utilization of the energy. Here, an innovative hydroxylated CNTs‐engineered polyvinylidene fluoride (H‐CNT@PVDF) membrane is proposed which imparts an efficient, localized photo‐/electro‐thermal self‐heating effect. To prevent the heat loss from the self‐heating layer to bulk water, a transparent silica aerogel microspheres (SAM) layer is deposited on the H‐CNT layer, achieving excellent self‐insulating effect. The innovative SAM@H‐CNT@PVDF Janus membrane achieves a 486% increase in MD flux compared with the conventional membrane. Although SAM layer only account for 3.8% of the membrane, the thermal resistance increases, unexpectedly, by more than 600%, which allows most of the heat to be concentrated at the H‐CNT layer and used for seawater evaporation. The overall energy‐to‐water efficiency reach 94.5%, outperforming state‐of‐the‐art MD devices. Additionally, the SAM layer demonstrates excellent anti‐electrooxidation effect with the current degradation decreasing from 75.6% to 21.1%, ensuring long‐term working for the membrane. The membrane represents a significant advancement in MD technology and holds substantial promise for ultra‐low energy seawater desalination, offering a promising solution to water‐energy nexus.
Polarization‐Modulated Multi‐Mode Optoelectronic Synaptic Transistor for Sensing‐Memory‐Logic Computing and Optical Wireless Communication
Authors: Ci Wenjuan , Wang Peng , Xue Wuhong , Liu Tianqi , Qu Jingyuan , Xu Xiaohong
Published: February 2025

Neuromorphic machine vision has attracted much attention in the field of artificial intelligence in the post‐Moore era. However, current strategies still suffer from limited modulation, single function, and complex device structure. Here, the integration of sensing, memory, logic computing, and optical wireless communication is realized in a single 2D van der Waals α‐In2Se3/SnS2 ferroelectric heterojunction field‐effect transistor. The device exhibits excellent nonvolatile memory performances including a large memory window (≈76 V), excellent endurance (>800 cycles), and good retention time (>104 s). The device can also emulate synaptic behaviors well such as short‐term to long‐term memory transitions, experiential learning, and associative learning. And the reconfigurable logic gates (AND, OR) can be implemented by controlling electrical and optical inputs. In addition, the nonvolatile output current triggered by optical pulse sequences can express the international English alphabet Morse code (A‐Z), which is expected to be used in the field of optical wireless communication for human–machine interfaces. This work emphasizes that 2D ferroelectric heterojunctions have the advantages of efficient modulation and high function integration, which have great potential for application in the development of future neuromorphic vision systems.
Post‐Assembled Dipole Benzoic Acids Modified Me‐4PACz for Efficient and Stable Inverted Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Yuan Fan , Xue Tangyue , Du Mengzhen , Huang Hailiang , Zeng Rui , Li Linwei , Wang Chenyun , Song Zhiqiang , Guo Qiang , Hu Xiaotian , Zhou Erjun
Published: February 2025

Self‐assembled monolayers (SAMs), particularly those molecules composed of carbazole and phosphonic acid, are widely employed as effective hole‐selective layer (HSL) in inverted perovskite solar cells (PSCs). However, the insufficient chemical bond formation with metal oxides (ITO) and self‐aggregation in solvents of carbazole phosphonic acid SAM led to non‐uniform HSL, which in turn affect power conversion efficiency (PCE) and stability of the PSCs. Herein, a series of benzoic acid materials (BAs), including p‐fluorobenzoic acid (FBA) and p‐methylbenzoic acid (MBA), are used as post‐assembly molecules to effectively fill the voids between the [4‐(3,6‐dimethyl‐9H‐carbazole‐9‐yl)butyl]phosphonic acid (Me‐4PACz) molecules to form a denser HSL, which facilitates passivation of the perovskite buried interface. In addition, post‐assembled BAs with different dipole moments can effectively adjust the work function of Me‐4PACz HSL, facilitating the transport and extraction of charge carriers. Consequently, the PSCs based on Me‐4PACz/FBA HSL realize a champion PCE of 25.58%. Moreover, the unencapsulated devices maintain 82% and 94% of the PCE after 800 h of the outdoor storage (RH≈60%) and 2000 h in glove box, respectively. This post‐assembly technique enhances both the PCE and stability of the device, blazing a simple and effective pathway for further development of PSCs.
Triple‐Additive Strategy for Enhanced Material and Device Stability in Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Xiong Zhenghong , Jeon Yun‐Sung , Wang Hongguang , Fu Guiming , Cho Seong‐Ho , Chang Seung‐Joo , van Aken Peter A. , Park Nam‐Gyu
Published: February 2025

The stability of the FAPbI3 perovskite phase is significantly affected by internal strain. In this report, additives in the perovskite precursor solution are designed to prevent local lattice mismatch of the resulting perovskite layer. Instead of using a conventional methylammonium chloride (Control), triple additives (Target) are introduced by considering ion association and formation energy. The out‐of‐plane orientation for the (100) plane is less pronounced by the triple additives compared to the Control film with a highly enhanced preferred orientation, which reduces the strain gradient and the Pb─I bond distance. Moreover, the anisotropic atomic‐level lattice strain along (111) plane, associated with the α‐to‐δ phase transition, is more uniformly distributed by the triple additives. The triple‐additive strategy demonstrates exceptional phase stability under relative humidity as high as 90% and the International Summit on Organic Photovoltaic Stability (ISOS)‐L‐2 protocol. The device lifetime measured under the ISOS‐D‐1 condition shows that the Target perovskite solar cell (PSC) maintains 95% of its initial power conversion efficiency (PCE) for over 8000 h, and the best PCE of 24.50% is achieved.
Multi Computer Vision‐Driven Testing Platform: Structural Reconstruction and Material Identification with Ultrabroadband Carbon Nanotube Imagers
Authors: Shikichi Daiki , Ota Raito , Kubota Miki , Kinoshita Yuya , Izumi Noa , Kosaka Mitsuki , Nishi Tomoki , Sakai Daiki , Matsuzaki Yuto , Takai Leo , Yamamoto Minami , Aoshima Yuto , Odawara Ryoga , Suyama Takeru Q. , Okawa Hiroki , Zhou Zhenyu , Furukawa Tomoya , Wada Shota , Ikehata Satoshi , Sato Imari , Kawano Yukio , Li Kou
Published: February 2025

While non‐destructive inspections of daily necessities and industrial products require material composition identifications and structural reconstructions of composite multi‐layered 3D objects, the development of analyzing systems that fully satisfy those performances is still insufficient. For such situations, this work synergizes permeable material identifications with carbon nanotube (CNT) film photo‐thermoelectric (PTE) imagers in millimeter‐wave (MMW)–visible light (Vis) bands and conventional Vis‐computer vision (CV) approaches mainly used for analyzing outer shapes of 3D objects. Specifically, this work demonstrates multi‐CV‐driven non‐destructive structural reconstruction techniques by ultrabroad MMW–Vis band multi‐wavelength optical monitoring using the CNT film PTE imager. Here, the CNT film PTE imager ultra‐broadly performs photo‐detection operations over the existing sensors in comparable sensitivities with the conventional narrowband devices at each region. Thus, the above imager facilitates utilizing ultrabroadband multi‐wavelength photo‐irradiation as playing an essential role in the presenting non‐destructive CV system. Following such device performances, the MMW–Vis multi‐CV system with the CNT film PTE imager first speculates spatial locations of each part for targets by visual hull measurements, then restores their detailed structures by tomography approaches. By incorporating these device and system properties, this work finally achieves non‐destructive composition‐identifying structural reconstructions for composite multi‐layered 3D objects.
The Promise and Pitfalls: A Literature Review of Generative Artificial Intelligence as a Learning Assistant in ICT Education
Authors: Chugh Ritesh , Turnbull Darren , Morshed Ahsan , Sabrina Fariza , Azad Salahuddin , Md Mamunur Rashid , Kaisar Shahriar , Subramani Sudha
Published: February 2025

“You are imparting human qualities to it because it looks human—but I assure you: it is not. If it were a box on wheels, I would not be facing this opposition.” Commander Bruce Maddox spoke these words during a Star Trek, The Next Generation episode as Lieutenant Commander Data faced an enquiry into his sentience. Similarly, this literature review explores the role of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) in education, specifically examining its function as a learning assistant within the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) discipline in higher education. Using AI‐powered tools such as Litmaps and Google Scholar, we conducted an iterative search and reviewed 26 peer‐reviewed articles, focusing on the use of GenAI tools as learning assistants in ICT education. We adhered to predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria to ensure methodological rigour, excluding non‐ICT populations, secondary sources, and non‐peer‐reviewed literature. The findings highlight the manifold advantages of integrating GenAI into ICT education, including its ability to diagnose programming code, provide tailored feedback, and serve as a valuable learning aid. However, significant challenges were also identified, particularly the tendency of novice programmers to uncritically accept GenAI‐generated output, concerns over academic integrity violations, and issues surrounding the privacy of personal information. We pinpoint that the integration of GenAI influences four key components: Andragogy, Assessment, Integrity, and Privacy. As GenAI becomes more entrenched in educational practices, this research provides a foundation for further exploration and refinement to maximise its transformative potential in higher education.
Design of a Microprocessors and Microcontrollers Laboratory Course Addressing Complex Engineering Problems and Activities
Authors: Hafiz Fahim , Emon Md Jahidul Hoq , Hossain Md Abid , Mukta Md. Saddam Hossain , Islam Salekul , Shatabda Swakkhar
Published: February 2025

This paper proposes a novel curriculum for the microprocessors and microcontrollers laboratory course. The proposed curriculum blends structured laboratory experiments with an open‐ended project phase, addressing complex engineering problems and activities. Microprocessors and microcontrollers are ubiquitous in modern technology, driving applications across diverse fields. To prepare future engineers for Industry 4.0, effective educational approaches are crucial. The proposed lab enables students to perform hands‐on experiments using advanced microprocessors and microcontrollers while leveraging their acquired knowledge by working in teams to tackle self‐defined complex engineering problems that utilize these devices and sensors, often used in the industry. Furthermore, this curriculum fosters multidisciplinary learning and equips students with problem‐solving skills that can be applied in real‐world scenarios. With recent technological advancements, traditional microprocessors and microcontrollers curricula often fail to capture the complexity of real‐world applications. This curriculum addresses this critical gap by incorporating insights from experts in both industry and academia. It trains students with the necessary skills and knowledge to thrive in this rapidly evolving technological landscape, preparing them for success upon graduation. The curriculum integrates project‐based learning, where students define complex engineering problems for themselves. This approach actively engages students, fostering a deeper understanding and enhancing their learning capabilities. Statistical analysis shows that the proposed curriculum significantly improves student learning outcomes, particularly in their ability to formulate and solve complex engineering problems, as well as engage in complex engineering activities.
Application of artificial intelligence in the detection of Borrmann type 4 advanced gastric cancer in upper endoscopy (with video)
Authors: Oh Mi Jin , Park Jinbae , Jeon Jiwoon , Park Mina , Kang Seungkyung , Kim Su Hyun , Park Su Hee , Chang Young Hoon , Shin Cheol Min , Kang Seung Joo , Lee Seunghan , Kim Sang Gyun , Cho Soo‐Jeong
Published: February 2025

Background

Borrmann type‐4 (B‐4) advanced gastric cancer is challenging to diagnose through routine endoscopy, leading to a poor prognosis. The objective of this study was to develop an artificial intelligence (AI)‐based system capable of detecting B‐4 gastric cancers using upper endoscopy.

Methods

Endoscopic images from 259 patients who were diagnosed with B‐4 gastric cancer and 595 controls who had benign conditions were retrospectively collected from Seoul National University Hospital for training and testing. Internal validation involved prospectively collected endoscopic videos from eight patients with B‐4 gastric cancer and 148 controls. For external validation, endoscopic images and videos from patients with B‐4 gastric cancer and controls at the Seoul National University Bundang Hospital were used. To calculate patient‐based accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity, a diagnosis of B‐4 was made for patients in whom greater than 50% of the images were identified as B‐4 gastric cancer.

Results

The accuracy of the patient‐based diagnosis was highest in the internal image test set, with accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity of 93.22%, 92.86%, and 93.39%, respectively. The accuracy of the model in the internal validation videos, the external validation images, and the external validation videos was 91.03%, 91.86%, and 86.71%, respectively. Notably, in both the internal and external video sets, the AI model demonstrated 100% sensitivity for diagnosing patients who had B‐4 gastric cancer.

Conclusions

An innovative AI‐based model was developed to identify B‐4 gastric cancer using endoscopic images. This AI model is specialized for the highly sensitive detection of rare B‐4 gastric cancer and is expected to assist clinicians in real‐time endoscopy.
Effects of vegetation expansion on morphodynamics of tidal channel networks
Authors: Zuo Yin , Zhao Leihua , Wang Xinchen , Xin Pei
Published: February 2025

Evolution of coastal landforms, including the formation and development of tidal channel networks in salt marshes, is shaped by the interaction of surface water hydrodynamics, sediment transport and vegetation dynamics. However, the impact of vegetation expansion on tidal channel geomorphology remains unclear. In this study, an ecogeomorphic model coupling abiotic and biotic processes was developed to investigate the effects of vegetation expansion (i.e., seeding and cloning) on tidal channel morphodynamics. The numerical model results demonstrate that vegetation expansion promotes the formation and development of tidal channels. With vegetation cover, the number, total length, area and volume of tidal channels markedly increase. Vegetation also reshapes the cross‐sections of tidal channels, increasing channel depths and decreasing their width‐to‐depth ratios. The synergistic effect of seeding and cloning is more significant than either process alone, leading to enhanced flow convergence and bed shear stress. Consequently, the channel erosion is enhanced, laying the foundational framework for the formation and growth of tidal channel networks. A high expansion rate enhances the effect of vegetation on tidal channel morphodynamics, leading to more developed tidal channel networks. This study focuses on tidal channel networks in salt marsh ecosystems and advances understanding of the geomorphological evolution of tidal channel networks subject to vegetation expansion, and it offers further implications for the management of coastal wetland ecosystems.
Tracing Information Flow from Open Quantum Systems
Authors: Dziewior Jan , Ruscio Leonardo , Knips Lukas , Meyer Eric , Szameit Alexander , Meinecke Jasmin D. A.
Published: February 2025

Open quantum systems are highly relevant, both for practical applications as well as for fundamental questions about the nature of information and its transfer, encompassing for example decoherence and memory effects. Quantum mechanics introduces additional complexity to the transfer of information, e.g., storage of information in non‐classical correlations. Yet, some of these aspects tend to be neglected by the usual framework of open system research. In this work, photons are used in a waveguide array to implement a quantum simulation of the coupling of a qubit with a low‐dimensional discrete environment. Using the trace distance between quantum states as a measure of information, different types of information transfer are analyzed. Extending the usual perspective which is focused on the system alone, the presence of information is also investigated in the environment.
Toward Laser‐Driven Lighting with High Overall Optical Performance: Thermally Robust Composite Phosphor‐in‐Glass Film
Authors: Yang Zezhong , Zheng Song , Zhuo Sifan , Lin Shisheng , Pang Tao , Zeng Lingwei , Wang Jing , Lu Ping , Huang Feng , Chen Daqin
Published: February 2025

For laser‐driven white light sources, phosphor‐in‐glass films (PiGFs), typically sintered onto substrates with high‐thermal conductivity, are developed and emerged as the leading materials. However, compared to other all‐inorganic color converters, such as single crystals, transparent ceramics, PiGF suffers from a low saturation threshold, poor thermal stability and limited irradiation durability, which restricts its practical applications. To overcome these limitations, in this study, a series of h‐BN‐YAG:Ce3+ PiGF is developed on opaque Al2O3/transparent Al2O3 (B‐Y PiGF@o/t‐Al2O3) by directly incorporating high‐thermal‐conductivity fillers into the PiGF. The selective incorporation of h‐BN establishes a local heat conduction network, significantly increasing the saturation threshold and luminous flux. Through optimization, a maximum luminous flux of 6015.46 ± 14.46 lm with a saturation threshold of 16.15 ± 0.48 W mm−2 is achieved in reflective excitation mode, outperforming previous high‐performance PiGFs. The addition of h‐BN both enhanced heat dissipation and improved the uniformity of white light output in transmissive excitation mode, addressing the “yellow ring” effect commonly seen in laser‐driven lighting. The application potential of the developed composite has been proven ranging from automotive headlights to medical lighting, offering a path toward enhanced brightness, more efficient, and operational‐stable next‐generation lighting technologies.
A Single‐Layer Spin‐Multiplexed Metasurface for Chameleon‐Like Electromagnetic Camouflage and Low Detectability
Authors: Zhou Xiaofeng , Zhou Chang , Fu Yang , Yang Helin , Cheng Houyuan , Zhao Ruonan , Jin Jing
Published: February 2025

This paper introduces a novel methodology for designing electromagnetic (EM) camouflage metasurfaces. Initially, a temperature‐sensitive resistor is embedded within the chiral atom, allowing temperature‐induced variations to selectively modulate the reflection amplitude of the left‐handed circularly polarized (LCP) wave. Subsequently, the reflected phases of both the right‐handed circularly polarized (RCP) and LCP waves are independently modulated, ensuring that the two phases span the full 2π range. Ultimately, the atoms are strategically arranged to facilitate the realization of various camouflage functions. As a proof of concept, a metasurface demonstrating chameleon‐like camouflage and low detectability is simulated, fabricated, and experimentally validated. When the LCP wave is incident, retroreflection occurs at a specific angle. Similar to a chameleon, the radar cross section (RCS) varies in response to temperature changes. When an RCP wave is incident, an average RCS reduction greater than 12 dB is achieved in X and Ku band. Furthermore, at an incident angle of 60°, the metasurface maintains an RCS reduction exceeding 8.5 dB. Both simulation and experimental results confirm that the proposed metasurface effectively combines the advantages of chameleon‐like camouflage with broadband, large‐angle low detectability, demonstrating its potential for applications in electromagnetic camouflage.
Sintering‐Free Phosphor Films for Laser‐Driven Lighting
Authors: Wen Haiyang , Zheng Peng , Lin Sheng , Zhou Tianliang , Xie Rong‐Jun
Published: February 2025

Phosphor color converters in the form of ceramics and films are key components in laser‐driven solid‐state lighting, but the high temperature (> 500 °C) required to densify them usually leads to a high loss in quantum efficiency and thermal stability. In this work, a sintering‐free method is reported to fabricate efficient and thermally robust phosphor films on an aluminum substrate by using an Al2O3 inorganic glue at room temperature. The sintering‐free method enables to maintain the initial photoluminescence properties of phosphor particles in the film and thus obtains loss‐free phosphor films. The Y3Al5O12:Ce‐Al2O3 composite phosphor film has a luminance saturation threshold of 16.5 W mm−2, and allows to generate laser‐driven white light with a luminous flux of 1680 lm, luminous efficiency of 205 lm W−1, and Correlated Color Temperature (CCT) of 6778 K. Dual‐phosphor films consisting of yellow, red or green phosphors are also fabricated to achieve tunable color temperatures and high color rendering properties of white light. The sintering‐free approach provides an interesting solution to prepare damage‐free and thermally robust phosphor films for laser‐driven solid‐state lighting.
THE FUTURE OF LEADERSHIP: NEURODIVERSITY IN LEADERSHIP TEAMS
Authors: Praslova Ludmila
Published: February 2025

The author, a Professor of Graduate Industrial‐Organizational Psychology at Vanguard University of Southern California, discusses the concept of neurodiversity within leadership, and how gradually the approach of leaders continues to change from one that has been predominately commanding to more empathetic and reflective. “Homogenous leadership teams,” she writes, “also lack the diversity of talent to meet the full range of leadership challenges and adequately fill the many types of new, emerging leadership roles – from Chief Wellbeing Officers to Chief Artificial Intelligence/AI Ethicists and Chief Data Officers.” She explains that “neurodiversity reflects the diversity in human neurobiological development, which may influence cognitive styles, emotional and sensory processing, mind‐body connection, learning, specific talents and abilities, and more.” She further notes that “neurodiversity is a characteristic of humanity in the same way as biodiversity is a characteristic of nature.” Regarding teamwork, she notes that “diverse leadership teams that include the unique ability patterns of neurodivergent people will be critical to driving innovation and tackling complex challenges.” And: “Promoting a Culture of Holistic Inclusion is a cultural shift essential to creating neuroinclusive leadership pipelines.” Among the strategies are, in her words, normalizing human differences and removing narrow demands on personal characteristics.
Barriers to Training in Social Control of the Brazilian Public Healthcare System in Physiotherapy Courses
Authors: Cavalcante Amanda Araujo , Gomes Tayná Bernardino , Brito Geraldo Eduardo Guedes de , Moriguchi Cristiane Shinohara
Published: February 2025

Background and Purpose

The education of physiotherapists is disengaged from social control, which is one of the principles of the Brazilian public healthcare system. Social control ensures the participation of the population in the planning and monitoring of the public healthcare system and depends on qualified professionals. Thus, the aim of the present study was to investigate how training in social control occurs in undergraduate physiotherapy courses at public higher education institutions in the state of São Paulo, Brazil.

Methods

Five teaching staff members were interviewed and six teaching projects were analyzed from a total sample of six public higher education institutions in the state of São Paulo using a qualitative method.

Results

The physiotherapy curriculum at Brazilian higher education institutions is based on the national curricular guidelines. However, these guidelines have gaps in the curricular guidance related to social control in terms of ensuring consistent training throughout the course, practical experiences, and a sufficient workload. To overcome barriers to training in social control, there is a need for the qualification of teaching staff, the adoption of skill‐based education, the strengthening of social control, and a human resource policy favoring the hiring of physiotherapists in the Brazilian public healthcare system.

Discussion

Training in social control in physiotherapy courses at higher education institutions remains a challenge, considering the complex skills involved and the requirement of curricular changes. The present study only analyzed public educational institutions in the state of São Paulo, Brazil.
Linkage Engineering of Semiconductive Covalent‐Organic Frameworks toward Room‐Temperature Ppb‐Level Selective Ammonia Sensing
Authors: Yan Zhuang , Fang Munan , Wang Longfei , Gao Huiwen , Ying Yue , Yang Jinlei , Wang Jiahua , Liu Yaling , Tang Zhiyong
Published: February 2025

Rational design of molecular architectures is crucial for developing advanced materials such as covalent‐organic frameworks (COFs) with excellent sensing performance. In this work, two isostructural COFs (β‐keto‐AnCOF and imine‐AnCOF) with the same conjugated linkers but distinct linkages are constructed. Although both COFs have porous structure and semiconductor behavior conferred by the identical conjugated backbones, β‐keto‐AnCOF with ─C═O side groups exhibits superior room‐temperature ammonia (NH3) sensing performance than imine‐AnCOF and even the state‐of‐the‐art dynamic and commercial NH3 sensors, i.e., high sensitivity up to 18.94% ppm−1, ultralow experimental detection limit of 1 ppb, outstanding selectivity, and remarkable response stability and reproducibility after 180 days. In situ spectroscopy and theoretical calculation reveal that the additional charge transfer between NH3 and ─C═O sites in β‐keto‐AnCOF effectively increases the distance between Fermi level and the valence band, enabling highly‐sensitive NH3 detection at ppb levels. This work provides novel molecular architectures for next‐generation high‐performance sensors.
Biodegradable Polymers for Application as Robust Immunomodulatory Biomaterial Carrier Systems
Authors: Barbery Brian George , Lukesh Nicole Rose , Bachelder Eric M. , Ainslie Kristy M.
Published: February 2025

The field of immunotherapeutics is rapidly evolving with the advent of cell therapies, complex biologics, and a host of other compounds. Polymeric carriers are often used to tune the safety and efficacy profiles of these novel drugs. Despite their prevalence in pre‐clinical and clinical applications, non‐degradable materials present delivery challenges including diffusion‐limited release, frustrated phagocytosis, and limited clearance. In contrast, biodegradable polymeric systems provide a safer alternative in addition to displaying advantageous properties for the delivery of immunotherapies. In this review, discussion of polymers including poly(lactic‐co‐glycolic acid) (PLGA), poly(beta‐amino esters) (PBAEs), acetalated dextran (Ace‐DEX), chitosan, alginate, and hyaluronic acid (HA) as immunomodulatory biomaterial carriers suggest that a variety of systems can be used to generate tailored formulations for different therapeutic payloads and disease indications. These carrier systems can enhance the delivery of immunotherapies via tunable degradation rates, enhanced antigen‐presentation, and inherent immunomodulatory properties of the biomaterials, among other mechanisms. Polymers formulated for immunomodulatory applications can be synthetic, semi‐synthetic, or naturally derived. Therefore, it is crucial to consider the environmental impact of polymer sources, particle fabrication methods, and solvent usage to sustainably develop effective immunomodulatory therapies in this evolving field.