Commercial Potential Research Articles

Genome-Wide Identification and Characterization of OSC Gene Family in Gynostemma pentaphyllum (Cucurbitaceae)

Gynostemma pentaphyllum is a traditional Chinese medicinal plant of considerable application value and commercial potential, primarily due to its production of various bioactive compounds, particularly dammarane-type triterpenoid saponins that are structurally analogous to ginsenosides. Oxidosqualene cyclase (OSC), a pivotal enzyme in the biosynthesis of triterpenoid metabolites in plants, catalyzes the conversion of oxidosqualene into triterpenoid precursors, which are essential components of the secondary metabolites found in G. pentaphyllum. To elucidate the role of OSC gene family members in the synthesis of gypenosides within G. pentaphyllum, this study undertook a comprehensive genome-wide identification and characterization of OSC genes within G. pentaphyllum and compared their expression levels across populations distributed over different geographical regions by both transcriptome sequencing and qRT-PCR experimental validation. The results identified a total of 11 members of the OSC gene family within the genome of G. pentaphyllum. These genes encode proteins ranging from 356 to 767 amino acids, exhibiting minor variations in their physicochemical properties, and are localized in peroxisomes, cytoplasm, plasma membranes, and lysosomes. All GpOSCs contain highly conserved DCTAE and QW sequences that are characteristic of the OSC gene family. A phylogenetic analysis categorized the GpOSCs into four distinct subfamilies. A cis-element analysis of the GpOSC promoters revealed a substantial number of abiotic stress-related elements, indicating that these genes may respond to drought conditions, low temperatures, and anaerobic environments, thus potentially contributing to the stress resistance observed in G. pentaphyllum. Expression analyses across different G. pentaphyllum populations demonstrated significant variability in OSC gene expression among geographically diverse samples of G. pentaphyllum, likely attributable to genetic variation or external factors such as environmental conditions and soil composition. These differences may lead to the synthesis of various types of gypenosides within geographically distinct G. pentaphyllum populations. The findings from this study enhance our understanding of both the evolutionary history of the OSC gene family in G. pentaphyllum and the biosynthetic mechanisms underlying triterpenoid compounds. This knowledge is essential for investigating molecular mechanisms involved in forming dammarane-type triterpenoid saponins as well as comprehending geographical variations within G. pentaphyllum populations. Furthermore, this research lays a foundation for employing plant genetic engineering techniques aimed at increasing gypenoside content.

A simple synthesis of supramolecular Polyamide12 via solid‐state melt reaction and its interlaminar properties in Carbon Fiber Reinforced Thermoplastics

AbstractDespite the exceptional mechanical properties of epoxy‐based carbon fiber‐reinforced plastic (CFRP), its commercial potential is limited due to high production costs and manufacturing difficulties. As a promising alternative, thermoplastic‐based CFRP (CFRTP) offers simpler manufacturing, lower cost, and recyclability. This study presents a strategy to overcome challenges for CFRTP manufacturing by using a low molecular weight (MW) thermoplastic that forms high‐MW assemblies via dynamic molecular interactions. A quadruple hydrogen‐bonding unit (UPy)‐end functional polyamide (PA‐UPy) was synthesized by simple solid‐state melt reaction of powdered mixture of PA12 and UPy‐containing isocyanate. An increase in tensile properties was observed with an increase in crystallinity by the adoption of UPy moiety. The adoption of PA‐UPy in CFRTP, prepared by simply stacking the powder and CF fabric followed by hot pressing, enhanced the composite's tensile and interlaminar properties. Therefore, this process is proposed as a simple and effective method to improve the mechanical properties of CFRTP.Highlights Synthesis of PA‐UPy achieved via solid‐state melt reaction of PA and UPy. PA supramolecular structure boosts tensile strength and modulus of films and CFRTP. UPy‐NCO doubles the interlaminar shear strength of PA‐UPy‐based CFRTP.

A Cd‐Free Electron Transport Layer Simultaneously Enhances Charge Carrier Separation and Transfer in Sb2Se3 Photocathodes for Efficient Solar Hydrogen Production

AbstractEfficient photoelectrochemical (PEC) water splitting is a pivotal technique to achieve sustainable hydrogen production, driving the exploration for high‐performance photoelectrodes. Antimony selenide (Sb2Se3) semiconductor has received significant attention due to its cost‐effectiveness, eco‐friendly nature, and favorable photoelectric properties. However, traditional Sb2Se3‐based photocathodes typically employ cadmium sulfide (CdS) as an electron transport layer (ETL), which introduces toxicity and stability issues, hindering their commercial application potential. This study develops a versatile method to improve the PEC performance of Sb2Se3‐based photocathodes by incorporating Cd‐free (Zn,Sn)O ETL. Comprehensive investigations demonstrate remarkable improvement in surface and heterojunction interface properties, leading to charge carrier dynamics optimization with highly interesting carrier separation efficiency of 96.5% and transfer efficiency of 93.6%. As a result, the champion Mo/Sb2Se3/(Zn,Sn)O/TiO2/Pt photocathode delivers a notable photocurrent density (Jph) of 31.8 mA cm−2 (close to its theoretical value), and a half‐cell solar‐to‐hydrogen (HC‐STH) conversion efficiency of 4.32%. This advancement highlights a promising pathway toward large‐scale and environmentally friendly solar hydrogen production applications.

A Descriptive Analysis of the Nutraceutical Constituents, Extraction Techniques, and Possible Health Benefits of Tamarind

Background: Tamarind is a multifunctional tree, with nearly every portion having significant nutritional or therapeutic use. The fruit, which produces acidic pulp, is the most valuable and often utilized portion. Objective: The aim of this paper is to discuss the distribution, habitat, chemical constituents and extraction techniques of tamarind. Methods: This study reviews the chemical constituents, health benefits and extraction techniques of tamarind. Databases such as PubMed, Scopus, Science Direct, and Google Scholar were used to search articles from 1990 to 2022. The key search terms included tamarind, phytoconstituents extraction and anti-nutritional factor. Research studies also included similar plant parts extracted from similar solvents which were considered in this review. Results: According to our observations, Tamarindus indica is a crucial plant with significant pharmacological properties. It is extensively used as a conventional medicine to treat a variety of disorders; however, its active ingredients require further investigation for future drug development and pharmacological activity. Tamarind contains a diverse range of bioactive compounds, including polyphenols, flavonoids, alkaloids, vitamins, and minerals, which have been associated with various health-promoting properties. The study examines different extraction methods used to isolate tamarind's bioactive constituents, such as solvent extraction, supercritical fluid extraction (SFE), and microwave-assisted extraction (MAE). Furthermore, the research highlights the potential health benefits of tamarind, including antioxidant activity, anti-inflammatory effects, gastrointestinal support, cardiovascular benefits, and antimicrobial properties. Discussion: Tamarind includes citric acid, linoleic acid, volatile oils, vitamin C, potassium, Camp sterol, -amyrin, Tannins, saponins, and glycosides as a result of this. It has several pharmacological properties such as reducing swelling, preventing oxidation, hypolipidemic, weight loss, antibacterial, hepatoprotective, anthelmintic, and painkiller properties. These properties will assist to generate interest in Tamarind and develop novel preparations with more medicinal and commercial potential. The findings indicate that tamarind holds significant promise as a natural resource for developing functional foods, nutraceuticals, and pharmaceuticals with potential positive impacts on human health.

Cashew phenol modified lignosulfonate strategy for the preparation of high-performance dye dispersants.

Lignin-based dye dispersants (LDD), as one of the most common lignin resource end-application product, is difficult to meet the rapidly developing needs of modern fiber dyeing due to their inherent structural defects. The efficient upgrading and modification of LDD is of great significance to the value-added application of lignin resources and the expansion of LDD sinking market. In this study, using industrial kraft lignin as raw material, cashew phenol was introduced into lignosulfonate in the form of CC bonds by ingenious utilizing the structural characteristics of lignin disordered condensation. Aromatic ring in cashew phenol could provide sufficient sulfonic acid group grafting sites, while C15 fatty chain could enhance steric hindrance effect. In the dispersibility test, the dispersing power showed 99.09 %, and the low/high temperature dispersion (LTD/HTD) were 5 s/4 and 6 s/4, respectively, higher than the dispersibility level of LDD in the market, has great commercial value and industrial potential. Combined with FTIR, 1H NMR, GPC and ICP, the structural properties of lignin were analyzed in detail, and the degree of sulfonation-condensation was balanced-optimized. The CC bond condensation process between cashew phenol and lignin was revealed, and the mechanism of action on dye particles was elucidated.

The lordscape: Mapping seigneurial jurisdictions in the late-medieval Low Countries

This article explores the relationship between the spatial distribution of elite power and geophysical factors in two regions within the Low Countries between c.1350 – c.1650. It does so through a focus on seigneuries, bundles of territory and rights through which premodern lords and ladies across Europe held jurisdiction and economic prerogatives over local subjects. Historians have often assumed that the uneven distribution of such jurisdictions in different regions was connected to the fertility and commercial potential of the landscape. This article pioneers a structured, transregional approach to test this hypothesis, by quantifying and visualizing the spatial distribution of seigneuries in connection with three geophysical features – soil fertility, proximity to waterways, and relief – within and between two Netherlandish principalities, Guelders and Hainault. Through visualization and quantification of the spatial clustering of seigneuries, the analysis confirms that these institutions gravitated towards areas that were most fertile and commercially viable. In addition, the data suggest a hierarchy in the relative importance of geophysical features. Soil fertility emerges as the prime factor, with relief (Hainault) and waterways (Guelders) as secondary (interdependent) factors.

Discharge reactor for fabricating efficient supported metal catalysts at room temperature in the absence of H2

AbstractSupported metal catalysts have been widely applied and commonly fabricated through the H2 reduction process. Herein, we develop a H2‐free room‐temperature discharge‐driven reduction (RT‐DR) reactor for fabricating supported metal catalysts at room temperature without H2. By RT‐DR reactor, a catalyst with pseudo‐boehmite (PB) as support (CdS/Pt/PB) is fabricated. In visible‐light‐driven photocatalytic H2O splitting to H2, CdS/Pt/PB shows a H2 evolution rate of 1132 μmol h−1, which is greatly enhanced than that on catalyst prepared by traditional H2‐reduction (633 μmol h−1). RT‐DR reactor is also used to prepare a catalyst with low sodium PB (LSPB) as support (CdS/Pt/LSPB). In visible‐light‐driven photocatalytic H2O splitting to H2, CdS/Pt/LSPB shows a H2 evolution rate of 2554 μmol h−1, which is 2.5 times higher than that on catalyst prepared by traditional H2‐reduction (1029 μmol h−1). Thus, RT‐DR reactor has high efficiency and universality in preparing catalysts, thus offering a great potential for commercialization.

Compact laser-diode-based optoacoustic mesoscopy.

Short-pulsed solid-state lasers (SSLs) are the most commonly employed light sources in optoacoustic imaging applications. However, their bulky size hinders compact and portable system implementations. Here we developed a compact laser diode (LD)-based optoacoustic mesoscopy (CoLD-OAM) scanner that employs a fiber-coupled laser diode source with 46 × 43 × 11 mm dimensions. CoLD-OAM features a scalable excitation pulse width in the 30-200 ns range, high pulse energies up to 6 µJ, and excellent pulse-to-pulse energy stability of 0.42%. Real-time imaging of the human wrist has been demonstrated with the system, achieving image quality similar to that of SSL-based systems. These advancements facilitate the development of portable optoacoustic systems with strong clinical translation and commercialization potential.

Biomass-based photothermal fabrics and superhydrophobic aerogel for self-floating solar evaporators with high energy efficiency in fresh water production from seawater

In the context of global water scarcity, solar-powered seawater desalination represents a highly promising approach to addressing the freshwater crisis, offering a green and sustainable solution. However, conventional solar evaporators (SEs) often have issues such as salt deposition and heat loss by conduction, which result in decreased evaporation rates energy efficiency. Moreover, they often require the use of challenging-to-degrade polymer materials as the insulation layers and buoyancy support. In this study, we fabricated a novel energy-efficient SE capable of self-standing/self-floating with biomass materials for biodegradability and sustainability. The photothermal layer of the SE was made with waste cotton cloth modified with CuS for high hydrophilicity and photothermal conversion efficiency, with hierarchical pores for rapid water delivery to the evaporation surface. The supporting base of the SE was made biomass-based superhydrophobic aerogel to provide effective thermal insulation and self-floating ability. The novel design of the SE significantly reduced heat transfer from the top photothermal zone to the bulk water body without affecting rapid water delivery, thereby preventing salt deposition and improving energy efficiency. Under 1 light illumination, the water evaporation rate of the SE reached 2.94 kg m-2h−1 and 93 % evaporation efficiency. The water harvested via the engineered evaporation system is suitable for direct application in crop irrigation. This type of SEs may have commercial application potential in seawater desalination agricultural planting field, and wastewater treatment.

Recombinant Live-Attenuated Salmonella Vaccine for Veterinary Use

Vaccination is essential for maintaining animal health, with priority placed on safety and cost effectiveness in veterinary use. The development of recombinant live-attenuated Salmonella vaccines (RASVs) has enabled the construction of balanced lethal systems, ensuring the stability of plasmid vectors encoding protective antigens post-immunization. These vaccines are particularly suitable for production animals, providing long-term immunity against a range of bacterial, viral, and parasitic pathogens. This review summarizes the progress made in this field, with a focus on clinical trials demonstrating the efficacy and commercial potential of RASVs in veterinary medicine.

Cross-Linked Polyamide-Integrated Argyrodite Li6PS5Cl for All-Solid-State Lithium Metal Batterie.

Lithium dendrite growth has become a significant barrier to realizing high-performance all-solid-state lithium metal batteries. Herein, an effective approach is presented to address this challenge through interphase engineering by using a cross-linked polyamide (negative electrostatic potential) that is chemically anchored to the surface of Li6PS5Cl (positive electrostatic potential). This method improves contact between electrolyte particles and strategically modifies the local electronic structure at the grain boundary. This innovation effectively suppresses lithium dendrite formation and enhances the overall interface stability. As a result, the critical current density of the Li6PS5Cl sulfide electrolyte is dramatically boosted from 0.4 to 1.6mAcm-2, representing a remarkable fourfold improvement. Moreover, Li-Li symmetric batteries demonstrate exceptional stability, enduring over 10,000 h of consistent Li+ deposition/stripping at a high areal capacity of 3mAhcm-2. Impressively Li-LiNi0.89Mn0.055Co0.055O2 full cells exhibited outstanding cycle stability and rate performance, maintaining over 80% capacity retention after 750 cycles at a demanding 1C rate. Pouch cells produced using dry-process electrodes demonstrate strong potential for commercialization. The interphase engineering strategy offers a promising solution to the persistent challenge of dendrite growth, enabling the full realization of sulfide electrolytes' capabilities in next-generation battery technologies.

Development and characterization of high-efficiency cell-adapted live attenuated vaccine candidate against African swine fever

African swine fever (ASF), a contagious and lethal haemorrhagic disease of domestic pigs and wild boars, poses a significant threat to the global pig industry. Although experimental vaccine candidates derived from naturally attenuated, genetically engineered, or cell culture-adapted ASF virus have been tested, no commercial vaccine is accepted globally. We developed a safe and effective cell-adapted live attenuated vaccine candidate (ASFV-MEC-01) by serial passage of a field isolate in CA-CAS-01-A cells. ASFV-MEC-01, isolated via repeated plaque purification using next-generation sequencing analysis, was obtained at passage 18 and showed significant attenuation in 4- and 6-week-old pigs. ASFV-MEC-01 conferred 100% protection against challenge with lethal parental ASFV, which correlated with high ASFV-specific humoral and cellular immune responses. Additionally, ASFV-MEC-01 was not detected in blood until 28 days post-inoculation. Global transcriptome analysis showed that ASFV-MEC-01 lacking 12 genes triggered stronger innate antiviral responses than the parental virus, as exemplified by high levels of mRNA encoding interferon regulatory and inflammatory genes in PAM cells. Ectopic expression of most deleted genes increased replication of DNA viruses by suppressing production of interferons and pro-inflammatory cytokines. Among the genes deleted from ASFV-MEC-01, MGF100-1R interacted specifically with the scaffold dimerization domain of TBK1, thereby preventing TBK1 dimerization and impairing TBK1-mediated type I IFN and NF-κB signaling. These results suggest that attenuation of ASFV-MEC-01 may be mediated by induction of stronger type I IFN and NF-κB signaling within the host innate immune system. Thus, ASFV-MEC-01 could be a safe and effective live attenuated ASFV vaccine candidate with commercial potential.

Yield and Survival of 19 Cultivars of Willow (Salix spp.) Biomass Crops over Eight Rotations

This study reveals patterns of yield and survival of short-rotation coppice (SRC) willow cultivars over eight rotations (1993–2019). Cultivars fell into four broad categories: commercial, released, stable, and decline. SV1, the singular cultivar that advanced to commercial deployments, had first-rotation yields of 8.9 Mg ha−1 a−1, peaking at 15.2 Mg ha−1 a−1 by the fourth. Mean yields from rotations 2–8 were still 36% above first-rotation yields, confirming the commercial potential for this cultivar over 26 years. The released group (four cultivars) had stable yields over six rotations (approximately 3 to 7 Mg ha−1 a−1), rising to match commercial yields (10 Mg ha−1 a−1) between the sixth and eighth rotation. Most of the cultivars were in the stable group that had relatively consistent yields over time. First-rotation yields in this group were approximately 5 Mg ha−1 a−1, and average yield increased by 23% for rotations 2–8. The two cultivars in the decline group were impacted by disease and browsing that lowered survival and growth. These findings are crucial for understanding willow systems’ potential over their full lifespan as a bioenergy crop, which is a crucial input into yield, economic, and environmental models.

Fabric-based visualization biosensor for real-time environmental monitoring and food safety

Foodborne and waterborne bacterial infections caused by Escherichia coli (E. coli) pose a serious threat to public health and safety. Therefore, there is an urgent need to develop a fast and accurate diagnostic device for early detection and prevention of bacterial contamination. In this study, we designed a visual cotton fabric-based detection biosensor that can target enzymes produced by E. coli metabolism and induce color changes. In addition, the system can be integrated with the naked eye, smartphones, and small spectrometers to analyze the generated signals for qualitative, semi-quantitative, and quantitative detection. The platform achieved a minimum detection limit of 537 cfu/mL for E. coli, a wide detection range of 102-106 cfu/mL, and a minimum detection time as low as 20 mins. The detection results of complex environmental samples showed that the system has excellent anti-ion interference and anti-pH interference behavior. This visual detection biosensor has great commercial application potential and can be widely used in real-time on-site detection due to its rapid, portable, anti-interference, and low-cost advantages.

High-Performance Radiative Cooling Sunscreen.

Radiative cooling is a zero-energy-consumption cooling technology that shows great potential for outdoor human thermal management. To keep human skin comfortable in hot days, we herein develop a radiative cooling (RC) sunscreen that exhibits a low ultraviolet (UV) transmissivity (4.86%), a high solar reflectivity (90.19%), and a high mid-infrared emissivity (92.09%) to effectively provide both UV protection and skin cooling. As a result, the RC sunscreen exhibits a high cooling performance for decreasing the human skin temperature by 2.3-6.1 °C more than commercial sunscreens and 4.2-6.0 °C more than bare skin in a variety of outdoor scenarios in summer (e.g., low-humidity sunny days, high-humidity sunny days, and high-humidity cloudy days). In addition, the RC sunscreen also shows a good UV stability (12 h, 125 W), a high water resistance (106°), a long working life (30 days), and a good biocompatibility, thereby exhibiting promising commercial potentials in the sunscreen market.

Functional Organic Electrochemical Transistor-Based Biosensors for Biomedical Applications

Organic electrochemical transistors (OECTs), as an emerging device for the development of novel biosensors, have attracted more and more attention in recent years, demonstrating their promising prospects and commercial potential. Functional OECTs have been widely applied in the field of biosensors due to their decisive advantages, such as high transconductance, easy functionalization, and high integration capability. Therefore, this review aims to provide a comprehensive summary of the most recent advances in the application of functional OECT-based biosensors in biomedicine, especially focusing on those biosensors for the detection of physiological and biochemical parameters that are critical for the health of human beings. First, the main components and basic working principles of OECTs will be briefly introduced. In the following, the strategies and key technologies for the preparation of functional OECT-based biosensors will be outlined and discussed with regard to the applications of the detection of various targets, including metabolites, ions, neurotransmitters, electrophysiological parameters, and immunological molecules. Finally, the current main issues and future development trends of functional OECT-based biosensors will be proposed and discussed. The breakthrough in functional OECT-based biosensors is believed to enable such devices to achieve higher performance, and thus, this technology could provide new insight into the future field of medical and life sciences.

Abstract A029: Novel high-purity CTC isolation technology for downstream analysis: A “Cell- Circuit” magnetophoretic-microfluidic hybrid device

Abstract Circulating Tumor Cells are the only blood analytes that contain comprehensive multi-omic information regarding living tumor cells. As such, CTCs are an essential tool for the precise diagnosis of cancer. This has led to increased interest in both enumeration, and more significantly, the downstream analysis of bulk and single CTCs. One primary technical limitation that limits adoption of CTCs into routine clinical practice is the ability to effectively isolate CTCs from non-target cells. While several technologies have been developed and commercialized including initial clinical adoption, most technologies have fundamental limitations in sample purity which limits the quality of downstream analysis. Another limitation is the number of steps needed to complete enrichment, especially in high purity isolation where 2 techniques are usually required to be performed in sequence. The authors propose a novel, single-cell isolation technology called L:Cell™. This technology utilizes precise micro-magnetic patterns to allow immuno-magnetically labeled cells to be isolated individually and directed to user-defined locations. Such “Cell-Circuits” enable parallel, computer-circuit-like manipulation of a large array of single cells – combining both precision and throughput. Passive and active single-cell control is made possible by circuit components such as gates, single-cell capacitors, and transistors. The technology also enables the classification of cells based on size in addition to the presence of magnetic beads. A "passive component" performs its function under an external rotating magnetic field, manipulating cells without the need for an electrical current. The majority of circuitry on-chip are such passive components, which enable the device's key advantage of parallelized control. In contrast, an "active component" is designed in conjunction with passive components to create a local magnetic field at specific locations. This allows cells to be rerouted or manipulated on-demand. Using active components, users can selectively isolate individual cells (e.g., based on size, morphology, or fluorescence). While micro-magnetophoretic technology has been explored by various research teams, the authors have advanced this technology further by micro-magnetic simulation and integrating microfluidic technology. This integration improves the inlet and outlet structures for cell samples and the alignment of particles’ flow, thereby maximizing the commercialization potential of this sophisticated technology. In lab-scale modeling, the authors demonstrated a high separation purity level of 92%. By allowing manipulation at single-cell level using magnetic fields only, the technology minimizes any stress on the cells during isolation processes. The authors developed a user- friendly interface utilizing microfluidic channels for the extraction of CTCs from whole blood using this hybrid device. Additionally, the authors are conducting further adaptation studies to apply this technology to various downstream techniques, such as genomic analysis and protein profiling. Citation Format: Chanhee Lee, Hun Heo, Youngwoo Park, Donghee Ko. Novel high-purity CTC isolation technology for downstream analysis: A “Cell- Circuit” magnetophoretic-microfluidic hybrid device [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Special Conference: Liquid Biopsy: From Discovery to Clinical Implementation; 2024 Nov 13-16; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Clin Cancer Res 2024;30(21_Suppl):Abstract nr A029.

Hybrid Ag-mesh/Ta-doped TiO2 thin film configuration as a visible and near-infrared transparent electrode

This study focuses on the fabrication of a hybrid Ag-mesh/Ta-doped TiO2 (TTO) electrode that has a low sheet resistance and high transparency in the visible and near-infrared region, thereby holding significant commercialization potential. Here, ∼82 nm thick TTO film is deposited on the glass substrate using radio frequency magnetron sputtering technique, over which Ag mesh is carved using the metal aerosol jet printing method. As compared to TTO, sheet resistance of the entire hybrid configuration is found to show a 2-3 order improvement, with the loss of a mere ∼12 % in the visible and ∼8 % in NIR transmittance. The electronic structure of the Ag/TTO interface demonstrates the formation of an ohmic junction, thereby making it suitable for the fabrication of a network-based transparent electrode. Moreover, the overall functionality and preparation route of this electrode makes it more promising as compared to those of the conventional metal mesh and metal-oxide electrodes.

Orthodontics Simulations as Teaching Tools

Traditional teaching methods in orthodontics employ static photos posing immense challenges as the learner is unable to conceptualise the changes in different planes that affect final tooth positions in the upper and lower jaws following treatment. Furthermore, the protracted treatment time of orthodontics ranges from 12 months (simple cases) to 36 months (complex cases) thus adding yet another dimension “patient growth” especially children often referred to as 4th Dimension of Time. Previous work at UQ with SBLi (Scenario Based Learning interactive https://youtu.be/PUIanIl5CFc?si=vDf8JwFjHixtzol7) (Naser-ud-Din, 2015) has shown that creating online teaching tools incorporating multimedia to address the concepts of dynamic change and is impactful for student learning on demand with global accessibility. Online asynchronous learning have three key strengths: firstly, flexibility for updating with contemporary software by learning designers and academics; secondly, ease for formative assessment for large cohorts and thirdly, international presence for potential commercialization. Feedback at UQ for postgraduate orthodontic students was overwhelmingly positive as students found interactivity highly engaging and appreciated the self-regulated aspect of it akin to that found in other publications (Hakami, 2021; Khoo et al., 2023; Naser-ud-Din, 2016). However, simulation creation is expensive (Kröger et al., 2017) and thus, it is essential to explore cost-effective teaching tools that are sustainable with the dental industry partners and easily translated into clinical practice. With advent of 3D simulations in Orthodontics, current literature is limited (Ho et al., 2022; Karanth et al., 2024; Sipiyaruk et al., 2023) and future best practices will require initiatives to enhance teaching recommendations. Moreover, LEAN an essential component for success in major industries who observer consistent success such as in aviation, and other professions have added value of efficiency, effectiveness, convenience and comfort. Hallmarks to improve outcomes and safety. The aim of this project is to complete 5 essential orthodontic chapters for the Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) students at MDS in (years 2-4) by introducing 3D simulations for orthodontic treatments start to finish; embedded in H5P teaching assessment tool. At present, limited number of such modules have been created with original clinical cases by the primary investigator (SN). Interactive online digital assets are valuable and need to be based on sound principles of Heutagogy for self-directed learning. Furthermore, LEAN foundation creates effectiveness and efficiency of delivery of core content. Essentially this project is aligned with Advancing students education strategy 2023-30 of the UoM P-9 “remove barriers to innovation and forge new partnership models between professional and academic”. At the time of writing there is lack of integrated 3D simulations for education in Orthodontics, thus addressing a gap to create interactive learning environments that are translated to clinical practice in dentistry. Thus utilizing in future CADCAM (Computer assisted Design Computer Assisted Manufacture) with efficiency and confidence for the graduate learner. The CADCAM tech is now widely incorporated by industry partners in dental technologies into mainstream Dentistry providing precision and speed. Refinement of these three modules will pave way as huge potential for commercialization under the banner of UoM with InnovateEd in near future. Moreover, the LEAN will assist in providing future sustainability.

The Role of Freeze-Drying as a Multifunctional Process in Improving the Properties of Hydrogels for Medical Use.

Background/Objectives: Freeze-drying is a dehydration method that extends the shelf life and stability of drugs, vaccines, and biologics. Recently, its role has expanded beyond preservation to improve novel pharmaceuticals and their carriers, such as hydrogels, which are widely studied for both drug delivery and wound healing. The main aim of this study was to explore the multifunctional role of freeze-drying in improving the physicochemical properties of sodium alginate/poly(vinyl alcohol)-based hydrogels for medical applications. Methods: The base matrix and hydrogels containing a nanocarrier-drug system, were prepared by chemical cross-linking and then freeze-dried for 24 h at -53 °C under 0.2 mBa. Key analyses included determination of gel fraction, swelling ratio, FT-IR, SEM, TG/DTG, in vitro drug release and kinetics, and cytotoxicity assessment. Results: Freeze-drying caused an increase in the gel fraction of the hydrogel with the dual drug delivery system from 55 ± 1.6% to 72 ± 0.5%. Swelling ability was pH-dependent and remained in the same range (175-282%). Thermogravimetric analysis showed that freeze-dried hydrogels exhibited higher thermal stability than their non-freeze-dried equivalents. The temperature at 10% weight loss increased from 194.0 °C to 198.9 °C for the freeze-dried drug-loaded matrix, and from 188.4 °C to 203.1 °C for the freeze-dried drug-free matrix. The average pore size of the freeze-dried hydrogels was in the range of 1.07 µm ± 0.54 to 1.74 µm ± 0.92. In vitro drug release revealed that active substances were released in a controlled and prolonged way, according to the Korsmeyer-Peppas model. The cumulative amount of salicylic acid released at pH = 9.0 after 96 h was 63%, while that of fluocinolone acetonide reached 73%. Both hydrogels were non-toxic to human fibroblast cells, maintaining over 90% cell viability after 48 h of incubation. Conclusions: The results show a high potential for commercialisation of the obtained hydrogels as medical dressings.