Current Challenges Research Articles

A Review on Biomimetic Cilia Microrobots: Driving Methods, Application and Research Prospects

Abstract: With the development of science and technology, microrobots have been used in medicine, biology, rescue, and many other fields. However, the microrobots have problems such as energy and motion due to miniaturization. In order to solve the problem of the energy supply of microrobots, researchers have provided more drive schemes for microrobots. Inspired by the biological cilia, the biomimetic cilia have been developed and applied to microrobots to achieve propulsion, liquid pumping, liquid mixing, and particle manipulation. This review summarizes the different driving modes of microrobots, focusing on the application of magnetic drive and optical drive in the field of micro-robots. The structure and function of biological cilia and biomimetic cilia are introduced. The application of biomimetic cilia microrobots in various fields is discussed, and the current challenges and future development trends of biomimetic cilia microrobots are summarized. This review hopes to provide useful help for researchers of biomimetic cilia microrobots

Current Trends and Challenges in Explosives Detection using Nanotechnology

Objective: This article highlights the applications of nanotechnology in the detection of explosives. Evidence acquisition: The increasing rise in terrorist acts throughout the globe has brought attention to the significance of locating hidden bombs and motivated new propelled breakthroughs to ensure public safety. Recognizing explosives and closely related-threatening combinations has already risen to the top of the priority list for contemporary national security and counterterrorism applications. Sensors based on nanotechnology have a fair probability of fulfilling all the criteria needed to be a practical solution for explosive trace detection. Results: Nanowire/nanotube, nanomechanical devices, and electronic noses are three nanosensor technologies that have the most potential to develop into commercially viable technology platforms for the detection of trace explosives. Certain functionalized nanoparticles can exhibit different behaviors as a result of unique interactions with nitroaromatics. Semiconducting singlewalled carbon nanotubes (SWCNT) have been used as wearable chemical sensors. Conclusion: In this paper, the potential of nanosensors has been exposed that can be used to build a sensor system with high selectivity and sensitivity and appropriate platforms for signal transduction for the detection of explosives.

Deep Reinforcement Learning Versus Evolution Strategies: A Comparative Survey.

Deep reinforcement learning (DRL) and evolution strategies (ESs) have surpassed human-level control in many sequential decision-making problems, yet many open challenges still exist. To get insights into the strengths and weaknesses of DRL versus ESs, an analysis of their respective capabilities and limitations is provided. After presenting their fundamental concepts and algorithms, a comparison is provided on key aspects, such as scalability, exploration, adaptation to dynamic environments, and multiagent learning. Current research challenges are also discussed, including sample efficiency, exploration versus exploitation, dealing with sparse rewards, and learning to plan. Then, the benefits of hybrid algorithms that combine DRL and ESs are highlighted.

A Review on Design and Mechanical Properties of Additively Manufactured NiTi Implants for Orthopedic Applications.

NiTi alloy has a wide range of applications as a biomaterial due to its high ductility, low corrosion rate, and favorable biocompatibility. Although Young’s modulus of NiTi is relatively low, it still needs to be reduced; one of the promising ways is by introducing porous structure. Traditional manufacturing processes, such as casting, can hardly produce complex porous structures. Additive manufacturing (AM) is one of the most advanced manufacturing technologies that can solve impurity issues, and selective laser melting (SLM) is one of the well-known methods. This paper reviews the developments of AM-NiTi with a particular focus on SLM-NiTi utilization in biomedical applications. Correspondingly, this paper aims to describe the three key factors, including powder preparation, processing parameters, and gas atmosphere during the overall process of porous NiTi. The porous structure design is of vital importance, so the unit cell and pore parameters are discussed. The mechanical properties of SLM-NiTi, such as hardness, compressive strength, tensile strength, fatigue behavior, and damping properties and their relationship with design parameters are summarized. In the end, it points out the current challenges. Considering the increasing application of NiTi implants, this review paper may open new frontiers for advanced and modern designs.

Overview on Data Ingestion and Schema Matching

This overview traced the evolution of data management, transitioning from traditional ETL processes to addressing contemporary challenges in Big Data, with a particular emphasis on data ingestion and schema matching. It explored the classification of data ingestion into batch, real-time, and hybrid processing, underscoring the challenges associated with data quality and heterogeneity. Central to the discussion was the role of schema mapping in data alignment, proving indispensable for linking diverse data sources. Recent advancements, notably the adoption of machine learning techniques, were significantly reshaping the landscape. The paper also addressed current challenges, including the integration of new technologies and the necessity for effective schema matching solutions, highlighting the continuously evolving nature of schema matching in the context of Big Data

Machine learning and 3D bioprinting.

48With the growing number of biomaterials and printing technologies, bioprinting has brought about tremendous potential to fabricate biomimetic architectures or living tissue constructs. To make bioprinting and bioprinted constructs more powerful, machine learning (ML) is introduced to optimize the relevant processes, applied materials, and mechanical/biological performances. The objectives of this work were to collate, analyze, categorize, and summarize published articles and papers pertaining to ML applications in bioprinting and their impact on bioprinted constructs, as well as the directions of potential development. From the available references, both traditional ML and deep learning (DL) have been applied to optimize the printing process, structural parameters, material properties, and biological/mechanical performance of bioprinted constructs. The former uses features extracted from image or numerical data as inputs in prediction model building, and the latter uses the image directly for segmentation or classification model building. All of these studies present advanced bioprinting with a stable and reliable printing process, desirable fiber/droplet diameter, and precise layer stacking, and also enhance the bioprinted constructs with better design and cell performance. The current challenges and outlooks in developing process-material-performance models are highlighted, which may pave the way for revolutionizing bioprinting technologies and bioprinted construct design.

Current Challenges and Issues in Indian Regulations of Medical Devices

Abstract: The study's objectives are to highlight the significance of medical devices, investigate the prospective expansion of the Indian market, look at the legislative changes made possible by MDR 2020, and deal with the ongoing issues with cost, quality, and adverse responses. The research aims to enhance the Indian medical devices sector by offering insightful observations and suggestions. This study intends to highlight the significance of medical devices, assess the prospective growth of the Indian industry, look at the regulatory changes brought about by MDR 2020, and address the ongoing issues with cost, quality, and adverse responses. The goal of the research is to help the Indian medical devices business grow by offering helpful insights and practical suggestions. The improvement of people's well-being and health depends heavily on medical technologies. The usage of medical devices is expected to rise as technology develops and illnesses spread. The Indian medical device industry is expected to grow to a market value of USD 50 billion by 2025, placing it fourth in Asia. The "Atma Nibbar Bharat" strategy, which emphasizes independence, is anticipated to support the expansion of India's medical device industry. Before the passage of the Medications and Cosmetics Act of 1940, there were no explicit regulations controlling medical devices, which resulted in their designation as medications. The Medical Device Regulation (MDR) was initially announced in 2017, nevertheless, and went into effect in January 2018. The Indian medical device sector was greatly impacted by the change of this guideline paper into MDR 2020. For testing and altering equipment that comes within the new criteria, the amended legislation offers a wider range of options. Despite these positive adjustments, problems still exist. Significant drawbacks include unregulated pricing, difficulties with quality control, and negative responses to medical equipment. This essay covers these topics in extensive detail and includes pertinent advice. It is stated which department is in control of handling these issues. To successfully address these issues, thorough examples, case studies, and solutions are given. In conclusion, this abstract emphasizes the significance of medical devices, the market's potential for growth in India, MDR 2020's legislative adjustments, as well as the ongoing difficulties related to cost, quality, and bad responses. The essay seeks to solve these problems by providing insightful analysis and suggestions.

Single Cell Transcriptomics-Informed Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells Differentiation to Tenogenic Lineage.

During vertebrate embryogenesis, axial tendons develop from the paraxial mesoderm and differentiate through specific developmental stages to reach the syndetome stage. While the main roles of signaling pathways in the earlier stages of the differentiation have been well established, pathway nuances in syndetome specification from the sclerotome stage have yet to be explored. Here, we show stepwise differentiation of human iPSCs to the syndetome stage using chemically defined media and small molecules that were modified based on single cell RNA-sequencing and pathway analysis. We identified a significant population of branching off-target cells differentiating towards a neural phenotype overexpressing Wnt. Further transcriptomics post-addition of a WNT inhibitor at the somite stage and onwards revealed not only total removal of the neural off-target cells, but also increased syndetome induction efficiency. Fine-tuning tendon differentiation in vitro is essential to address the current challenges in developing a successful cell-based tendon therapy.

Electrolyte Imbalance and Neurologic Injury.

Neurologic injury continues to be a debilitating worldwide disease with high morbidity and mortality. The systemic sequelae of a neural insult often lead to prolonged hospital stays and challenging nutritional demands that contribute to poorer prognoses. Clinical management of a given condition should prioritize preserving the homeostatic parameters disrupted by inflammatory response cascades following the primary insult. This focused review examines the reciprocal relationship between electrolyte disturbance and neurologic injury. A prolonged electrolyte imbalance can significantly impact morbidity and mortality in neurologic injuries. A detailed overview of the major electrolytes and their physiologic, iatrogenic, and therapeutic implications are included. The pathophysiology of how dysnatremias, dyskalemias, dyscalcemias, and dysmagnesemias occur and the symptoms they can induce are described. The manifestations in relation to traumatic brain injury, status epilepticus, and acute ischemic stroke are addressed. Each type of injury and the strength of its association with a disruption in either sodium, potassium, calcium, or magnesium is examined. The value of supplementation and replacement is highlighted with an emphasis on the importance of early recognition in this patient population. This review also looks at the current challenges associated with correcting imbalances in the setting of different injuries, including the relevant indications and precautions for some of the available therapeutic interventions. Based on the findings of this review, there may be a need for more distinct clinical guidelines on managing different electrolyte imbalances depending on the specified neurologic injury. Additional research and statistical data on individual associations between insult and imbalance are needed to support this potential future call for context-based protocols.

Introducing Empowered Consent to Deal With the Current Challenges in Applied Sport Psychology

There has been a paucity of literature discussing how to address consent procedures as part of ethics, practitioner development, and best practice in applied sport psychology. Several researchers have addressed ethical challenges (e.g., out-of-session contact, overidentification, time, and space). However, none have substantially considered the sport-specific issues related to consent, which sits at the heart of best practice. The scarcity of discussing consent is limiting sport psychology’s potential to establish itself as a more recognized profession. This article highlights some contextual issues that challenge the idea and efficacy of informed consent. It proposes adapting consent procedures in the collaboration between sport psychology practitioners and clients to better address the current contextual challenges in applied sport psychology. In doing so, the current paper introduces Empowered Consent, which is specifically designed to empower athletes and address challenges related to choosing interventions, contractual obligations, visibility in the environment, and staff trying to gain insights into confidential information. The author offers a model to enhance applied practice for those collaborating with athletes and other clients in sport.

From Scraps to Solutions: Harnessing the Potential of Vegetable and Fruit Waste in Pharmaceutical Formulations

Background:: Food waste is a major worldwide problem due to the increasing population and imbalances in supply chains. Waste from fruits and vegetables are a substantial proportion of the overall food waste generated, accounting for approximately 42% of the waste produced. Methane, a strong greenhouse gas with a significant potential for global warming, is produced when these waste products are typically dumped in landfills. Objectives:: The study's goal is to present a thorough overview of the most recent findings and developments in the use of vegetable and fruit waste for creating therapeutic formulations. Recognizing the opportunities and challenges in this developing area of study, as well as the promise that vegetable and fruit waste contains for the creation of environmentally friendly and economically advantageous pharmaceutical formulations. Methods:: A comprehensive review of existing literature on the utilization of vegetable and fruit waste in pharmaceutical formulations was conducted. The review included studies on the chemical composition and bioactive compounds present in various types of vegetable and fruit waste, their extraction methods, and their potential applications in pharmaceutical formulations. Additionally, current waste management practices and challenges associated with waste disposal were also analyzed. Conclusion:: The review highlights the significant potential of vegetable and fruit waste in the development of pharmaceutical formulations. Fruit and vegetable waste offer a wide range of bioactive compounds, such as antioxidants, antimicrobials, and antiinflammatory agents, which could be utilized in drug formulation. Moreover, this approach can promote environmental sustainability by reducing waste generation and enhancing waste utilization. Further research and development efforts should focus on optimizing extraction methods, evaluating the efficacy and safety of wastederived compounds, and addressing regulatory requirements for integrating vegetable and fruit waste into pharmaceutical products. Harnessing the potential of vegetable and fruit waste in pharmaceutical formulations can lead to sustainable advancements in the pharmaceutical industry while addressing environmental concerns.

Examining Low-Carbon Material Initiatives: Existing Policies, Impacts on the Procurement of Projects, Current Challenges, and Potential Solutions to Reduce Embodied Carbon in the Construction Industry

Examining Low-Carbon Material Initiatives: Existing Policies, Impacts on the Procurement of Projects, Current Challenges, and Potential Solutions to Reduce Embodied Carbon in the Construction Industry

Insights into the physics of gamma-ray bursts from the high-energy extension of their prompt emission spectra

The study of the high-energy part (MeV-GeV) of the spectrum of gamma-ray bursts (GRBs) can play a crucial role in investigating the physics of prompt emission, but it is often hampered by low statistics and the paucity of GeV observations. In this work, we analyze the prompt emission spectra of the 22 brightest GRBs which have been simultaneously observed by Fermi/GBM and Fermi/LAT, spanning six orders of magnitude in energy. The high-energy photon spectra can be modeled with a power-law N(E)∝E−β possibly featuring an exponential cutoff. We find that, with the inclusion of the LAT data, the spectral index β is softer than what is typically inferred from the analysis of Fermi/GBM data alone. Under the assumption that the emission is synchrotron, we derived a median value of the index p ∼ 2.79 of the power-law energy distribution of accelerated particles (N(γ)∝γ−p). In nine out of 22 GRB spectra, we find a significant presence of an exponential cutoff at high energy, ranging between 14 and 298 MeV. By interpreting the observed cutoff as a sign of pair-production opacity, we estimate the jet bulk Lorentz factor Γ, finding values in the range 130–330. These values are consistent with those inferred from the afterglow light curve onset time. Finally, by combining the information from the high-energy prompt emission spectrum with the afterglow light curve, we exploited a promising method to derive the distance R from the central engine where the prompt emission occurs. The distances (R > 1013 − 15 cm) inferred for the only two GRBs in our sample that are suitable for the application of this method, which have only lower limits on their cutoff energies, suggest large emitting regions, although they are still compatible with the standard model. Larger samples of GRBs with measured cutoff energies and afterglow deceleration time will allow for more informative values to be derived. These results highlight the importance of including high-energy data, when available, in the study of prompt spectra and their role in addressing the current challenges of the GRB standard model.

Engineering Quantum Light Sources with Flat Optics.

Quantum light sources are essential building blocks for many quantum technologies, enabling secure communication, powerful computing, and precise sensing and imaging. Recent advancements have witnessed a significant shift toward the utilization of "flat" optics with thickness at subwavelength scales for the development of quantum light sources. This approach offers notable advantages over conventional bulky counterparts, including compactness, scalability, and improved efficiency, along with added functionalities. This review focuses on the recent advances in leveraging flat optics to generate quantum light sources. Specifically, the generation of entangled photon pairs through spontaneous parametric down-conversion in nonlinear metasurfaces, and single photon emission from quantum emitters including quantum dots and color centers in 3D and 2D materials are explored. The review covers theoretical principles, fabrication techniques, and properties of these sources, with particular emphasis on the enhanced generation and engineering of quantum light sources using optical resonances supported by nanostructures. The diverse application range of these sources is discussed and the current challenges and perspectives in the field arehighlighted.

Nanomedicine Tumor Targeting.

Nanomedicines are extensively explored for cancer therapy. By delivering drug molecules more efficiently to pathological sites and by attenuating their accumulation in healthy organs and tissues, nanomedicine formulations aim to improve the balance between drug efficacy and toxicity. More than 20 cancer nanomedicines are approved for clinical use, and hundreds of formulations are in (pre)clinical development. Over the years, several key pitfalls have been identified as bottlenecks in nanomedicine tumor targeting and translation. These go beyond materials- and production-related issues, and particularly also encompass biological barriers and pathophysiological heterogeneity. In this manuscript, the author describes the most important principles, progress, and products in nanomedicine tumor targeting, delineates key current problems and challenges, and discusses the most promising future prospects to create clinical impact.

Recent Trends in Nanomaterial Based Electrochemical Sensors for Drug Detection: Considering Green Assessment.

An individual's therapeutic drug exposure level is directly linked to corresponding clinical effects. Rapid, sensitive, inexpensive, portable and reliable devices are needed for diagnosis related to drug exposure, treatment, and prognosis of diseases. Electrochemical sensors are useful for drug monitoring due to their high sensitivity and fast response time. Also, they can be combined with portable signal read-out devices for point-of-care applications. In recent years, nanomaterials such as carbon-based, carbon-metal nanocomposites, noble nanomaterials have been widely used to modify electrode surfaces due to their outstanding features including catalytic abilities, conductivity, chemical stability, biocompatibility for development of electrochemical sensors. This review paper presents the most recent advances about nanomaterials-based electrochemical sensors including the use of green assessment approach for detection of drugs including anticancer, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and antibiotics covering the period from 2019 to 2023. The sensor characteristics such as analyte interactions, fabrication, sensitivity, and selectivity are also discussed. In addition, the current challenges and potential future directions of the field are highlighted.

Lora Based Advanced Multipurpose Security System

Abstract: As the Internet of Things (IoT) continues to evolve, the demand for advanced multipurpose security systems has become increasingly pronounced. This review paper explores the integration of Long Range (LoRa) technology into the realm of security, presenting a comprehensive analysis of its applications and benefits. LoRa's exceptional characteristics, including extended range, low power consumption, and scalability, position it as a promising solution to the limitations of traditional security systems. The paper begins with an introduction to the current challenges in security systems and the need for innovative approaches. It then delves into a detailed exploration of LoRa technology, elucidating its technical aspects and showcasing its advantages over conventional communication protocols. A critical component of the paper lies in dissecting the elements of an advanced multipurpose security system. The integration of LoRa into intrusion detection sensors, video analytics through surveillance cameras, access control systems, and seamless connectivity with smart home devices is thoroughly examined. This comprehensive approach aims to highlight the versatility and efficacy of LoRa in addressing diverse security requirements. The communication architecture section elucidates the role of LoRa as the primary communication protocol. Emphasis is placed on the implementation of mesh networking to enhance reliability and coverage, accompanied by robust data encryption protocols to secure sensitive information. Realworld implementations and case studies form a pivotal part of this review, providing tangible examples of successful LoRa-based security systems. Performance metrics and comparisons with traditional security setups serve to underscore the practical advantages of adopting LoRa in security applications. In conclusion, this paper synthesizes key findings, emphasizing the transformative impact of LoRa on advanced multipurpose security systems. The integration of LoRa technology offers a scalable, efficient, and secure solution to the evolving landscape of security challenges. The abstract serves as a precursor to a comprehensive exploration of LoRa's role in shaping the future of security systems.

Deciphering adolescent emptiness: A novel interpretation of other-contribution theory and intervention strategies

Deciphering adolescent emptiness: A novel interpretation of other-contribution theory and intervention strategies

Corporate governance and CSR for sustainability in Oil and Gas: Trends, challenges, and best practices: A review

Corporate governance and Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) are integral components of sustainability in the oil and gas industry, shaping the sector's environmental and social impact. This review explores current trends, challenges, and best practices in corporate governance and CSR for sustainability within the oil and gas sector. The review examines how corporate governance frameworks influence CSR strategies, highlighting the importance of board oversight and stakeholder engagement in driving sustainable practices. It also delves into the evolving role of oil and gas companies in addressing environmental concerns, such as climate change and resource depletion, through CSR initiatives and transparent reporting. Challenges faced by the industry, such as regulatory complexity, stakeholder expectations, and balancing short-term profitability with long-term sustainability, are analyzed. The review underscores the need for robust governance structures and effective CSR programs to navigate these challenges and maintain social license to operate. Best practices in corporate governance and CSR are explored, emphasizing the importance of integrating sustainability into core business strategies. Case studies illustrate successful approaches to CSR implementation, showcasing how companies can create shared value for stakeholders while driving positive environmental and social outcomes. In conclusion, the review calls for a proactive and holistic approach to corporate governance and CSR in the oil and gas industry. It advocates for increased transparency, stakeholder engagement, and alignment of CSR efforts with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to enhance sustainability and mitigate risks in the sector.

Recent Advances in 4D Printing of Advanced Materials and Structures for Functional Applications.

4D printing has attracted tremendous worldwide attention during the past decade. This technology enables the shape, property, or functionality of printed structures to change with time in response to diverse external stimuli, making the original static structures alive. The revolutionary 4D-printing technology offers remarkable benefits in controlling geometric and functional reconfiguration, thereby showcasing immense potential across diverse fields, including biomedical engineering, electronics, robotics, and photonics. Here, a comprehensive review of the latest achievements in 4D printing using various types of materials and different additive manufacturing techniques is presented. The state-of-the-art strategies implemented in harnessing various 4D-printed structures are highlighted, which involve materials design, stimuli, functionalities, and applications. The machine learning approach explored for 4D printing is also discussed. Finally, the perspectives on the current challenges and future trends toward further development in 4D printing are summarized.