Effective Penetration Research Articles

Digital dynamics: exploring ICT's role in revolutionising Nigeria's trade sectors

PurposeThis study examined the influence of information and communication technology (ICT) on Nigeria's trade in sectors. Specifically, the research evaluated the effects of internet penetration, mobile phone subscriptions and fixed telephone subscriptions on exports and imports.Design/methodology/approachThe study considered data from 1995 to 2022, highlighting ten trade sectors per standard international trade classification (SITC) single digit. It utilised the panel auto-regressive distributed lag (ARDL) with a preference for a pooled mean group (PMG) estimator.FindingsThe study finds that, in the short run, increases in internet penetration, mobile phone subscriptions and fixed telephone subscriptions significantly decrease export levels in Nigeria. Nonetheless, ICT advancements, particularly in mobile and fixed telephone subscriptions, significantly boost import activities by 17.9 and 41.5% in the long run, highlighting their positive impact on trade dynamics. In the long run, mobile telephone subscriptions substantially negatively affect exports. In contrast, internet penetration and fixed telephone subscriptions show no significant impact, indicating differing influences of ICT components on trade over time.Practical implicationsThe study underscored the need to prioritise enhancing ICT infrastructure to boost export growth, especially in sectors identified under the SITC framework. Strategies should be developed to mitigate the negative impacts associated with ICT advancements.Originality/valueThe study used the SITC framework, which presents different export and import sectors. It offers a distinctive examination of the short- and long-term effects of ICT on Nigeria's trade sectors. It also provided valuable insights into the impact of mobile and internet technologies on exports and imports, highlighting sector-specific effects and the need for strategic resource allocation.

Study on damage performance of high strength casing by shaped charge jet assisted window sidetracking method

This paper explores the penetration of high-strength casings by metal jets to reduce the milling workload of windowing drill bits, thereby improving the efficiency and success rate of window sidetracking in high-strength thick-walled casings. The numerical simulation model of shaped charge penetration casing was established based on Autodyn software. The penetration effects of shape charge structure, charge liner material and charge quantity on casing were studied from the angles of casing damage degree, penetration volume, metal jet kinetic energy and mechanical specific energy (MSE). The results show that trumpet shaped liner has better reaming ability, has the largest effective damage area, the largest penetration volume, and the lower MSE, and the hole shape is more suitable for window sidetracking. The larger the charge diameter, the better the penetration effect on the casing. The charge combination of 70-1(charge diameter D=70mm and charge length=1D) causes more effective damage in the hole edge of the casing, and has a larger penetration volume and the smallest MSE. When the material density of the top section is greater than that of the curve section, the jet head velocity is larger; otherwise, the jet head velocity is smaller. The penetration volume of the titanium-tungsten charge liner increased by 110.6% compared with titanium material charge liner, but the MSE increased by only 24.26%, indicating that combination material charge liners can significantly enhance the penetration effect of the metal jet on the casing. The titanium-tungsten charge liner has the largest penetration volume and good damage effect on the casing, with a low MSE, making it suitable for window sidetracking. In summary, under standoff distance of 1D and the 70-1 charge combination, the trumpet-shaped liner with titanium-tungsten material combination exhibits the best penetration performance on the casing. This study provides valuable insights into the application of metal jet-assisted window sidetracking techniques.

Ultrasound-induced rapid electron movement on ZnO/MoS2 heterojunction for high performance tumor therapy

Conventional methods for treating tumors not only have limited therapeutic efficacy but also cause harm to patients, so there is an urgent need to develop a new therapeutic approach. Sonodynamic therapy (SDT), with its strong tissue penetration and few side effects, is considered to be an effective means of treating tumors. However, the reactive oxygen species (ROS) produced by a single piezoelectric material is often limited and does not achieve a complete tumor cure. In this paper, a ZnO/MoS2 heterojunction is synthesized by hydrothermal immobilization of MoS2 on ZnO to enhance the effect of SDT. Meanwhile, due to the electron exchange between ZnO and MoS2, a layer of ZnS is formed between ZnO and MoS2. Under ultrasound (US) irradiation, the ZnO/MoS2 heterojunction can effectively eliminate breast cancer cells within 10 min. This is mainly due to the better piezoelectric catalytic ability of ZnO/MoS2 than pure ZnO. Electrochemical and Uv–vis tests show that the formation of heterojunction accelerates the separation of electrons and holes and inhibits carrier complexation, so that more oxygen substrates will react with electron-hole pairs to generate ROS. This work provides a novel idea to take the treatment of tumors by enhancing piezoelectric catalysis through the construction of heterojunction interfaces.

Effects of additional transmission chamber on flow dynamics of a pulsed jet in crossflow

This study examines the effects of an additional transmission chamber on a pulsed jet in crossflow using experimental and Large-eddy simulation methods, with a focus on the structural and mixing characteristics of the flow. Three pulse frequencies are selected (f = 20 Hz, 50 Hz, and 100 Hz), and the results of the model with an additional transmission chamber are compared with the round pipe model. The results show that the additional transmission chamber enhances jet penetration, diffusion, and mixing uniformity, particularly at higher pulse frequencies. The additional transmission chamber also alters the exit velocity profile, increasing peak velocity and promoting greater deflection under crossflow. These findings highlight the potential of transmission chambers to optimize pulsed jet performance in applications requiring effective mixing and penetration.

Bioinspired micro- and nanostructured systems for cancer therapy.

Numerous organisms in nature have demonstrated enhanced biocompatibility, precise tumor targeting capabilities, and efficient tissue traversal within the human body. Drawing inspiration from these organisms, researchers have employed bioengineering, bioconjugation, and micro- or nanotechnology to fabricate bioinspired micro- and nanostructured systems. These systems play a crucial role in addressing the limitations of conventional anticancer drugs and nanomaterials concerning biocompatibility, effective penetration of physiological barriers, as well as selective tumor targeting, thereby leading to improved therapeutic efficacy while minimizing nonspecific adverse effects on healthy cells. Consequently, extensive exploration of these bioinspired micro- and nanostructured systems has been undertaken across various cancer treatment modalities with some progressing into preclinical or clinical stages. However, our understanding of this field remains limited which may impede research progress, clinical translation efforts, and practical applications. Therefore, this study presents a systematic classification of bioinspired micro- and nanostructured systems for cancer therapy that comprehensively elucidates their sources of inspiration and design principles. Furthermore, it extensively discusses the current status of clinical translation efforts while identifying prevailing challenges and exploring future prospects. This work will establish a robust theoretical framework and serve as a valuable reference to facilitate advancements in research and clinical application within this field.

Biomimetic Nanomotors for Deep Ischemia Penetration and Ferroptosis Inhibition in Neuroprotective Therapy of Ischemic Stroke.

Nerve injury represents the primary reason of mortality and disability in ischemic stroke, but effective drug delivery to the region of cerebral ischemia and hypoxia poses a significant challenge in neuroprotective treatment. To address these clinical challenges, a biomimetic nanomotor, Pt@LF is designed, to facilitate deep delivery of neuroprotective agents and inhibit ferroptosis in ischemic stroke. Pt@LF traverses the blood-brain barrier (BBB) and penetrates into deep cerebral ischemic-hypoxic areas due to the active targeting capacity of apo-lactoferrin (Apo-LF) and the self-propelling motion properties of nanomotors. Subsequently, Pt@LF loosens thrombus and alleviates the "no reflow" phenomenon via mechanical thrombolysis. Thanks to the various enzyme-like abilities and multi-target ferroptosis inhibition capability, Pt@LF ameliorates the inflammatory microenvironment and rescues dying neurons. In conclusion, Pt@LF demonstrates efficiently deep penetration and neuroprotective effects in vitro and vivo. And this study provides a promising therapeutic platform for the treatment of ischemic stroke.

Research on Advanced Imaging System Based on PZT Material and X-ray Tube

Along with the rapid development of social economy and the continuous improvement of people's living standards, medical and health care has taken on an important strategic position. As an important analysis and detection means, biosensing technology plays a key role in the field of healthcare. The piezoelectric biosensor is an innovative biosensor utilizing piezoelectric material for bioanalysis, which has excellent characteristics of good stability, fast detection speed, high accuracy and simple operation, and has important application value in the fields of biomedicine, health monitoring and disease prevention and control. Herein, we summarize the research progress of piezoelectric biosensors at home and abroad in recent years and introduce the working principle of piezoelectric biosensors based on the piezoelectric effect of quartz crystal microbalance as well as commonly used piezoelectric materials, including inorganic piezoelectric materials, organic piezoelectric materials, piezoelectric composites, and bio-piezoelectric materials. Furthermore, the applications of piezoelectric biosensors in human health monitoring and disease prevention and control, such as the monitoring of physiological signs such as heart rate and pulse, the detection of biomarkers and epidemic viruses such as neo-coronary pneumonia, are also introduced. Finally, the current problems faced by piezoelectric biosensors are summarized and their future development is prospected. We will also talk about the basic principle, type, detection technology, application and development trend of X-ray tubes are reviewed. X-ray tube is a kind of electronic device that can produce X-rays, which is widely used in medical, industrial, security and other fields. The basic principle is to obtain the internal structure and composition information of the sample by detecting the intensity and energy distribution after the X-ray passes through the sample by using the penetration and fluorescence effects of the X-ray.

Validation of GEANT4 simulation for active materials interrogation using nuclear resonance fluorescence

This study validates the GEANT4 simulation toolkit's effectiveness in modeling Nuclear Resonance Fluorescence (NRF) for Non-Destructive Assay (NDA) applications, focusing on isotopes 11B and 238U, which exhibit distinct NRF characteristics. Using experimental data from the High-Intensity γ-ray Source (HIγS) facility, the study benchmarks GEANT4's capability in simulating critical NRF interactions, such as spectra peak positions, angular distributions, and yield dependencies on target thickness. For 11B, GEANT4 successfully replicated NRF peaks at 2125, 4440, and 5020 keV, achieving alignment within ±1% of experimental values. For 238U, simulations reproduced NRF yield saturation as target thickness increased, validating the toolkit's handling of self-absorption and scattering effects, which are critical for applications involving high-density, shielded materials. These findings confirm GEANT4's robustness in simulating NRF phenomena, making it suitable for designing advanced NDA systems for security applications where isotope-specific detection and effective shielding penetration are essential. The validated toolkit provides a reliable foundation for developing accurate, efficient, and secure nuclear detection technologies.

Exploring the potential of Fargesin from Chrysanthemum indicum for chronic migraine: in-silico and pharmacokinetic study.

Chronic migraine is recognized by the WHO as one of the most debilitating chronic conditions. It is primarily caused by central sensitization of the trigeminal nucleus caudalis. Key biomarkers associated with migraine include NFkB, IL-1β, CGRP, and iNOS. While CGRP antagonists have proven effective in treating migraines, Chrysanthemum indicum L., a traditional herbal remedy, has not been established as a treatment. To address this, we investigated whether Fargesin, a lignan found in CI, could potentially reduce migraines by targeting these biomarkers. We conducted pharmacokinetic, toxicological, and in-silico studies. Molecular docking studies revealed a strong interaction between Fargesin and CGRP/iNOS. The pharmacokinetic analysis indicated robust intestinal absorption and effective penetration of the blood-brain barrier. In-silico toxicity assessments showed favorable results. Promising interactions with drug targets were observed in bioactivity tests. Fargesin from Chrysanthemum indicum may hold potential as a therapeutic agent for migraines.

Urease-powered nanomotor containing STING agonist for bladder cancer immunotherapy

Most non-muscle invasive bladder cancers have been treated by transurethral resection and following intravesical injection of immunotherapeutic agents. However, the delivery efficiency of therapeutic agents into bladder wall is low due to frequent urination, which leads to the failure of treatment with side effects. Here, we report a urease-powered nanomotor containing the agonist of stimulator of interferon genes (STING) for the efficient activation of immune cells in the bladder wall. After characterization, we perform in vitro motion analysis and assess in vivo swarming behaviors of nanomotors. The intravesical instillation results in the effective penetration and retention of nanomotors in the bladder. In addition, we confirm the anti-tumor effect of nanomotor containing the STING agonist (94.2% of inhibition), with recruitment of CD8+ T cells (11.2-fold compared with PBS) and enhanced anti-tumor immune responses in bladder cancer model in female mice. Furthermore, we demonstrate the better anti-tumor effect of nanomotor containing the STING agonist than those of the gold standard Bacille Calmette-Guerin therapy and the anti-PD-1 inhibitor pembrolizumab in bladder cancer model. Taken together, the urease-powered nanomotor would provide a paradigm as a next-generation platform for bladder cancer immunotherapy.

Influence of anionic alkyl chain on the tribological properties of titanium alloy under water lubrication: Experimental analysis and molecular dynamics simulations

In this work, four types of protic ionic liquids were prepared for use as pure water additives to investigate the effect of anionic alkyl chains on the tribological and drilling performance of a titanium alloy. Copper block immersion tests and electrochemical tests were conducted to compare their corrosion resistance. The results indicate that the ionic liquid containing OH and CC in the anionic alkyl chain led to stronger adsorption onto the metal substrate, providing excellent tribological performance and the highest corrosion inhibition rate (η = 98.45 %). According to density functional theory, wear scar surface analysis, and molecular dynamics simulation, the low energy gap of the anion (ΔE = 0.033 Ha) indicated that it exhibited higher reactivity. Thus, it was more susceptible to frictional chemical reactions with the metal substrate under the action of frictional heat during shearing, ultimately forming a friction film with a thickness of 20–97 nm. The ionic liquid demonstrated good wetting properties in a drilling test, enabling its effective penetration into the gaps between the drill bit and the workpiece to achieve lubrication and cooling effects. Thus, the axial force and drilling temperature were significantly reduced. Additionally, biotoxicity tests indicated that the ionic liquid is an environmentally friendly substance.

Effect of internet penetration on ICT export, economy, and employment in Bangladesh: Evidence from vector error correction and local projection

The advent of Industry 4.0 is imminent, with the internet emerging as a pivotal catalyst for this impending revolution as general-purpose technology (GPT). This study examines the transformative impact of internet penetration on economic development and employment dynamics in Bangladesh. Leveraging time series data from 1996 to 2022, and employing Vector Error Correction Model (VECM) and Linear Projections (LP) methodologies, the research reveals significant insights into the relationship between internet penetration, ICT exports, GDP growth, and employment trends. Findings indicate that a 10% increase in internet penetration led to a notable 4.7% rise in ICT exports and a marginal 0.8% increase in GDP, albeit with a concerning 1.1% decline in formal sector employment. While highlighting the positive influence of internet connectivity on trade and economic activities, the study underscores the challenges of job displacement and the need for inclusive and equitable growth strategies in the face of technological big push.

Design and Development of a Quad mode Circular Millimeter-Wave Patch Antenna for Breast Tumour Size Detection and Localization

In this study, we present the development of an antenna based on millimeter-wave specifically designed for performance in breast tumour detection and localization. A quad – mode circular microstrip antenna is engineered to function at millimeter-wave frequencies of 30 GHz and 40 GHz, focusing on accurate tumor size & location. At 30 GHz and 40 GHz, facilitating effective penetration through breast tissue and enabling precise tumor localization. The differential dielectric characteristics of malignant and normal breast tissues provide the basis for the detection of breast cancers using mm-wave imaging. Using quarter mode circular patch antennas, this method sends and receives pulses that travel through the breast at various points. The tumor's location and size are then determined by receiving the waves from the breast. Due to their strong scattering properties, malignant tumors can be identified by their transfer characteristics in the reflected signals they receive. The study also looks at how the tumor's size and location in relation to the antenna affect detection efficiency. These results suggest that mm wave planar antennas are useful for locating and detecting tiny breast cancers, offering a viable method for breast cancer detection.

Ti4Ir2O : A time reversal invariant fully gapped unconventional superconductor

Here we report muon spin rotation (μSR) experiments on the temperature and field dependence of the effective magnetic penetration depth λ(T) in the η-carbide-type suboxide Ti4Ir2O, a superconductor with a considerably high upper critical field. The temperature dependence of λ(T), obtained from transverse-field (TF)-μSR measurements, is in perfect agreement with an isotropic fully gaped superconducting state. Furthermore, our ZF μSR results confirm that the time-reversal symmetry is preserved in the superconducting state. We find, however, a remarkably small ratio of Tc/λ0−2∼1.22. This value is close to most unconventional superconductors, showing that a very small superfluid density is present in the superconducting state of Ti4Ir2O. The presented results will pave the way for further theoretical and experimental investigations to obtain a microscopic understanding of the origin of such a high upper critical field in an isotropic single-gap superconducting system. Published by the American Physical Society 2024

Niosomal gel improves dermal delivery of nimbolide: a promising approach for treatment of psoriasis.

Aim: Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin disorder characterized by the excessive proliferation of keratinocytes, forming thickened skin plaques due to immune-mediated cytokine responses. Delivering drugs through this barrier to target inflamed tissues remains challenging. Nimbolide (NIM), known for its anti-inflammatory and anticancer properties, shows promise in managing psoriasis. However, its efficacy is limited by its inability to penetrate the thickened horny layer of the skin. To overcome this obstacle, we have developed Nim-loaded niosomal (Nio) formulations (NIM Nio) aimed at improving dermal delivery and achieving localized sustained release at psoriasis-affected sites.Methods: The formulation characteristics were assessed using Zeta sizer, Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM), and High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). The optimized formulation was evaluated for anti-psoriatic potential compared to Nim alone by using molecular techniques such as Confocal Microscopy, Flow cytometry, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), and Western blotting.Results: NIM Nio showed effective penetration into psoriatic skin, resulting in reductions in keratinocyte hyperproliferation, oxidative stress, splenomegaly, inflammatory cytokines, Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI), and rete ridges compared to NIM alone.Conclusion: Our findings underscore the significant anti-proliferative, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties of NIM Nio in psoriasis, demonstrating its potential as a promising therapeutic option for this challenging condition.

Comparative Analysis of Thin and Thick MoTe2 Photodetectors: Implications for Next-Generation Optoelectronics.

Due to its outstanding optical and electronic properties, molybdenum ditelluride (MoTe2) has become a highly regarded material for next-generation optoelectronics. This study presents a comprehensive, comparative analysis of thin (8 nm) and thick (30 nm) MoTe2-based photodetectors to elucidate the impact of thickness on device performance. A few layers of MoTe2 were exfoliated on a silicon dioxide (SiO2) dielectric substrate, and electrical contacts were constructed via EBL and thermal evaporation. The thin MoTe2-based device presented a maximum photoresponsivity of 1.2 A/W and detectivity of 4.32 × 108 Jones, compared to 1.0 A/W and 3.6 × 108 Jones for the thick MoTe2 device at 520 nm. Moreover, at 1064 nm, the thick MoTe2 device outperformed the thin device with a responsivity of 8.8 A/W and specific detectivity of 3.19 × 109 Jones. Both devices demonstrated n-type behavior, with linear output curves representing decent ohmic contact amongst the MoTe2 and Au/Cr electrodes. The enhanced performance of the thin MoTe2 device at 520 nm is attributed to improved carrier dynamics resulting from effective electric field penetration. In comparison, the superior performance of the thick device at 1064 nm is due to sufficient absorption in the near-infrared range. These findings highlight the importance of thickness control in designing high-performance MoTe2-based photodetectors and position MoTe2 as a highly suitable material for next-generation optoelectronics.

Estimating the effective char depth in structural timber elements exposed to natural fires, considering the heating and cooling phase

This research study investigates the effect of different heating and cooling regimes on the effective cross-section of timber elements exposed to natural fires. An advanced calculation method based on a 1D finite-difference heat transfer model and effective thermo-physical properties is adopted to analyse the heat penetration and the consequent reduction in mechanical properties. In particular, the research focuses on the evolution and penetration speed of the char depth (300 °C isotherm) and zero-strength layer (determined through in-depth temperatures and reduced mechanical properties). Results reveal how the char depth mainly develops during the heating phase, with non-negligible contributions from the cooling phase. In contrast, the zero-strength layer increases throughout the whole fire exposure, particularly during cooling and, possibly, after the end of the cooling phase. In general, the heating phase contributes about 2/3 to the total effective char depth, while the cooling phase about 1/3. The most challenging conditions were found for the fires of the longest durations (heating and overall), corresponding to low ventilation and high fuel load density conditions. The study emphasises the necessity of incorporating the cooling phase in performance-based methodologies for fire-safe timber structures to avoid under-estimating heat penetration effects.

Photostimulated Anticancer Activity of Mitochondria Localized Rhenium(I) Tricarbonyl Complexes Bearing 1H-imidazo[4,5-f][1,10]phenanthroline Ligands Against MDA-MB-231 Cancer Cells.

We have introduced Re(I) tricarbonyl complexes (ReL1 - ReL6) [Re(CO)3(N^N)Cl] where N^N=extensive π conjugated imidazo-[4,5-f][1,10]-phenanthroline derivatives that helps in strong DNA intercalation, enhanced photophysical behavior, increase the 3π-π* character of T1 state for PDT and high value of lipophilicity for cell membrane penetration. These complexes exhibited prominent intraligand/ligand-centered (π-π*/1LC) absorption bands at λ 260-350 nm and relatively weak metal-to-ligand charge-transfer (1MLCT) bands within the λ 350-550 nm range. Among the six synthesized complexes, [(CO)3ReICl(K2-N,N-2-(4-(1-benzyl-1H-tetrazol-5-yl)phenyl)-1H-imidazo[4,5-f][1,10]phenanthroline] (ReL6) exhibited outstanding potency (IC50~6 μM, PI>9) under yellow light irradiation compared to dark conditions. Importantly, extremely lipophilic complex ReL6 showed effective penetration through the cell membrane and localized primarily in mitochondria (Pearson's correlation coefficient, PCC=0.918) of MDA-MB-231 cells. Complex ReL6 exhibited more than 9 times higher photo-toxicity in normoxic and hypoxic environment of tumor by inducing 1O2 generation (type II PDT), radical generation triggered by NADH oxidation (type I PDT). This complex is a promising candidate for TNBC treatment in hypoxic tumors, with efficacy comparable to photofrin and have demonstrated CO release ability under UV light irradiation.

A Multipole-Based Reactive Force Field for Hydrocarbons.

The computational complexity of quantum chemistry methods has prompted the development of reactive force fields, facilitating practical applications of molecular dynamics simulations for large-scale reactive systems. Current reactive force fields typically employ intricate corrections based on prior chemical knowledge, which severely impedes their further advancement. This study presents a new atomic multipole-based reactive model with bond free (OPERATOR). The force field is constructed on a simple, physically motivated model within the AMOEBA framework that closely resembles the physical representation of the chemical reaction processes. In the force field, the atomic multipoles are generated dynamically according to the atomic environments, aiming to effectively capture significant changes in the electrostatic environments during chemical reactions. Subsequently, atomic multipole-based charge penetration, polarization, and charge transfer effects are incorporated into the force field to describe the complex electrostatic interactions in the system. The force field also includes van der Waals interactions and three-body potentials. In addition, to extend these nonreactive interactions to chemical reactions, the atom distribution multipole moments are used to characterize different chemical environments. The force field has been optimized using the dataset of potential energy surfaces (PESs) of hydrocarbons derived from DFT results of millions of conformations with six degrees of freedom (DOFs). The results demonstrate that the new force field effectively replicates both the monopoles and the energies. In comparison to ReaxFF, the new force field exhibits comparable or superior performance. Furthermore, molecular dynamics simulations of n-heptane decomposition effectively reproduce the primary products and reactions observed in the experiments. Given the simplicity and physically motivated nature of the model, it is expected that the new force field will be utilized in future studies to investigate chemical reaction mechanisms involving more elements.

Local Coffee Product Development Strategy

Kopi Kali Place is one of the popular coffee shops in the North Jakarta area that has been established since 2019. The purpose of this study is to determine the market penetration and development of local coffee products of Coffe shop Kopi Kali. This study uses a descriptive qualitative approach to understand the development of local coffee products in Kopi Kali Coffee shop. The research methods used include in-depth interviews, participatory observation, documentation, and data triangulation. The results of the research show that Kopi Kali Coffee shop, since its establishment in 2019 until 2024, has undergone an impressive evolution in facing challenges and changes in the coffee industry. With strong adaptability and a high commitment to innovation, Kopi Kali has successfully developed an effective market penetration strategy. The main focus on innovative product development such as the transformation of "Kopi Belies" into a non-alcoholic version and the introduction of a variety of excellent coffee menus demonstrates a dedication to maintaining quality and creating a variety of flavors that appeal to customers. Smart marketing strategies, including the use of social media and partnerships with influencers, have been successful in increasing brand awareness and reaching a wider market segment.