Opportunities For Applications Research Articles

Para-Hydroxy Ni(II)-POCOP Pincer Complexes as Modifiers on Carbon Paste Electrodes and Their Application in Methanol Electro-Oxidation in Alkaline Media

The application of organometallic materials as anodes in fuel cell devices has experienced a notable increase in recent years. However, the use of POCOP pincer complexes remains scarcely explored despite their great relevance in catalysis. Thus, in this work, the electrocatalytic activity to methanol in alkaline media of three Ni(II)-based POCOP pincer complexes—[NiCl{C6H2-4-OH-2,6-(OPiPr2)2}] (a1), [NiCl{C6H2-4-OH-2,6-(OPtBu2)2}] (a2), and [NiCl{C6H2-4-OH-2,6-(OPPh2)2}] (a3)—will be discussed. The complexes were use as modifiers of carbon paste electrodes that were evaluated using cyclic voltammetry considering diverse factors, such as the absence and presence of MeOH, diverse proportions (% w/w) of the complex in the electrode, scan rate, and different MeOH concentrations. Results indicated the presence of a redox pair Ni(II)/Ni(III) with a quasi-reversible behavior in all complexes, the anodic peak currents of which were proportional to the increase in MeOH concentrations (0.05–0.3 mM), and their oxidation potentials varied in the function of the P-substituent in the Ni(II)-POCOPs backbone. Complex a1 exhibited the best current density (429.5 mA cm2 at 0.5 mM) compared to its analogs a2 and a3. The current intensity of all electrodes displays good stability, which remains—with slight changes—up to 100 s. Moreover, a comparison of their catalytic rate constants suggested a great activity in complex a1 (0.52 × 106 cm3 mol−1 s−1) compared to its analogues, implying a great activity in the electro-oxidation of MeOH. Hence, this work opens new opportunities for the electrochemical application of POCOPs complexes for future DMFCs development.

Strain-driven magnetic transition of intercalated pressure-stabilized cobalt and cobalt oxide nanoparticles in linked graphene oxide nanoscale reactors

The study of the evolution and metamorphosis of nanoparticles under high pressure and in nanoscale confinement is a rapidly developing field that promises a diverse range of fundamental research and application opportunities. Here, we demonstrate how a linked and strained graphene oxide (GO)-based confinement system, functioning as a nanoscale reactor at high pressures, allows the evolution of the magnetic properties of an in situ generated composite cobalt (Co) nanoparticle system and further enables the retention of such properties when the pressure of the system is returned to ambient. We posit that this phenomenon is due to an ‘induced pressure’ created by strain, on the flexible planes of the 2D GO system, created by the intercalated Co-based nanoparticles. For graphene/GO this strain is characterized by shifts in the Raman “G-band”. Specifically, the studied system comprises in situ generated Co-containing nanoparticles confined between linked GO layers upon pressurization between 0 and 25 GPa. After quenching to ambient pressure, each of these samples exhibited innate ferromagnetic behaviors, demonstrating that our confinement system can be used to ‘lock in’ phase changes created by the application of transient high pressure. Importantly, while the unpressurized sample exhibited antiferromagnetic Co3O4 nanoparticles of ∼4 nm size, the samples pressurized to 10 GPa and 25 GPa, presented ferromagnetic order on the shell of an antiferromagnetic core of Co3O4 and CoO.

Luminescence Nanothermometry: Investigating Thermal Memory in UiO-66-NH2 Nanocrystals.

Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), a diverse and rapidly expanding class of crystalline materials, present many opportunities for various applications. Within this class, the amino-functionalized Zr-MOF, namely, UiO-66-NH2, stands out due to its distinctive chemical and physical properties. In this study, we report on the new unique property where UiO-66-NH2 nanocrystals exhibited enhanced fluorescence upon heating, which was persistently maintained postcooling. To unravel the mechanism, the changes in the fluorescence signal were monitored by steady-state fluorescence spectroscopy, lifetime measurements, and a fluorescence microscope, which revealed that upon heating, multiple mechanisms could be contributing to the observed enhancement; the MOFs can undergo disaggregation, resulting in a fluorescent enhancement of the colloidally stable MOF nanocrystals and/or surface-induced phenomena that result in further fluorescence enhancement. This observed temperature-dependent photophysical behavior has substantial applications. It not only provides pathways for innovations in thermally modulated photonic applications but also underscores the need for a better understanding of the interactions between MOF crystals and their environments.

Hydrogel Loaded with Extracellular Vesicles: An Emerging Strategy for Wound Healing.

An increasing number of novel biomaterials have been applied in wound healing therapy. Creating beneficial environments and containing various bioactive molecules, hydrogel- and extracellular vesicle (EV)-based therapies have respectively emerged as effective approaches for wound healing. Moreover, the synergistic combination of these two components demonstrates more favorable outcomes in both chronic and acute wound healing. This review provides a comprehensive discussion and summary of the combined application of EVs and hydrogels to address the intricate scenario of wounds. The wound healing process and related biological mechanisms are outlined in the first section. Subsequently, the utilization of EV-loaded hydrogels during the wound healing process is evaluated and discussed. The moist environment created by hydrogels is conducive to wound tissue regeneration. Additionally, the continuous and controlled release of EVs from various origins could be achieved by hydrogel encapsulation. Finally, recent in vitro and in vivo studies reported on hydrogel dressings loaded with EVs are summarized and challenges and opportunities for the future clinical application of this therapeutic approach are outlined.

Compact magneto-optical traps using planar optics

Abstract Magneto-optical traps (MOTs) composed of magnetic fields and light fields have been widely utilized to cool and confine microscopic particles. Practical technology applications require miniaturized MOTs. The advancement of planar optics has promoted the development of compact MOTs. In this article, we review the development of compact MOTs based on planar optics. First, we introduce the standard MOTs. We then introduce the grating MOTs with micron structures, which have been used to build cold atomic clocks, cold atomic interferometers, and ultra-cold sources. Further, we introduce the integrated MOTs based on nano-scale metasurfaces. These new compact MOTs greatly reduce volume and power consumption, and provide new opportunities for fundamental research and practical applications.

AI-empowered neural processing for intelligent human-machine interface and biomedical devices

AI-empowered neural processing for intelligent human-machine interface and biomedical devices Jie Gu, Associate Professor from Northwestern University, examines AI-empowered neural processing for intelligent human-machine interface and biomedical devices. Most conventional wearable devices rely on motion detection or image classifications to capture users’ activities. However, they lack the ability to decode neural signals generated by the human body. Neural signals, such as EEG, ECG, and EMG, offer a rich amount of information on a person’s physiological and psychological activities. Recognition and use of such signals present many new opportunities for applications in medical and daily commercial usage. Recently, artificial intelligence (AI) has been applied to neural signal processing, leading to a new generation of intelligent human-machine interfaces and biomedical devices.

Artificial intelligence in shoulder arthroplasty: how smart is it?

BackgroundThe application of artificial intelligence (AI) is growing rapidly in many fields, and the medical field is no exception. The amount of information we collect before, during, and after surgery is growing exponentially, making the opportunity for AI applications to be integrated into our daily practice more and more apparent. MethodsA literature search was conducted in January 2024 using PubMed (MEDLINE), SCOPUS, and EMBASE databases. A critical analysis of the relevant literature on AI technology in shoulder arthroplasty was conducted. ResultsIn the field of shoulder arthroplasty, recent literature reports the predictive value of AI models in predicting length of stay and healthcare costs, predicting clinical outcomes and complications, and identifying implants. By leveraging ML before, during, and after surgery, surgeons can make clinical decisions, predict possible problems, estimate resources needed and clinical outcomes, and ultimately personalize care for each patient. ConclusionsAI technology is becoming more and more advanced, especially in the medical field. By leveraging ML before, during, and after surgery, surgeons can make clinical decisions, predict possible problems, estimate resources needed and clinical outcomes, and ultimately personalize treatment for each patient. Because this technology is still in its infancy, there are several limitations to bringing it into the real-world clinical setting. However, it is advancing at a rapid pace, and therefore, as a shoulder surgeon, you need to understand and be interested in AI technology.

Tunable hydrophobicity and biodegradability of acetylated lignin/polyester fibrous mat for water/oil separation

ABSTRACT The development of eco-friendly and biodegradable biopolymer composites has become increasingly important. In this study, acetylated lignin (ACL) was synthesized, and its potential as an effective additive for biodegradable polymers was investigated. ACL was synthesized through a one-step acetylation process in which hydroxyl groups of lignin were substituted with acetyl groups. ACL exhibited enhanced molecular weight and thermal stability, along with improved solubility in organic solvents compared to unmodified kraft lignin (KL). Hydrophobic ACL was uniformly dispersed in a mixture of a polycaprolactone (PCL) polymer and organic solvent, leading to the successful fabrication of a fibrous mat using electrospinning. The ACL/PCL fibrous mat demonstrated enhanced mechanical strength and hydrophobicity, notably indicating a substantially high-water contact angle of 143.3 ± 1.4°. Subsequently, it was utilized as a water/oil separator, showing a separation efficiency exceeding 90% for oil within a short time, effectively addressing water/oil emulsions. Biodegradability results demonstrated enhanced hydrolysis degradation efficiency with the incorporation of ACL into PCL fibers. Consequently, this study proposes a feasible approach to enhance the efficacy of ACL as a biodegradable polymer additive, while presenting promising opportunities for membrane applications targeting water/oil separation.

Mixing oat proteins with lentil or faba bean proteins: How is the techno-functional behavior of the different protein systems affected by heat treatments?

Despite the growing market for plant-based products, rarely a single plant protein source manages to provide all the essential amino acids in a balanced way. Mixed protein systems combining proteins from more than one plant source may be useful to overcome this drawback. However, the mixture of proteins from different plant sources may impact the technological performance of the system. In this context, the influence of heat treatments of 75 and 95 °C for 15 min at neutral pH on the colloidal and the techno-functional properties of mixtures of protein isolates from lentil and oat (LO) and from faba bean and oat (FO) were investigated. The applied heat treatments induced subtle changes in the colloidal properties of the different systems. It was evidenced by size exclusion chromatography that oat proteins were more prone to heat induced changes than lentil or faba bean proteins. Regarding the techno-functional properties, mixing the proteins from the different sources had an antagonistic effect on foamability. On the other hand, an additive effect was observed for emulsifying capacities, with legume proteins displaying values between 93 and 100%, oat proteins close to 65%, and mixed systems between 78 and 93 %. Vicilin (7S) and β-basic subunits of legumin (11S) from lentil and faba bean, and oat 12S globulin were the main protein fractions stabilizing the interface of the obtained emulsions. The proteins from both sources coexisted at the interface of the emulsions stabilized by the mixed systems. The microstructure of the thermo-induced gels was dictated by oat proteins. However, the different legumes played a determining role in the critical gelling concentration measured (8 % w/w and 11.5 % w/w respectively for LO and FO). Mixing oat proteins with lentil or faba bean proteins allows modulating the techno-functional performance of the systems, thus represents an opportunity for innovative applications.

Perspectives of Language-Major Students at a Higher Education Institution on the Activities of Foreign Language Clubs in Improving Their Speaking Skills

Beyond classroom learning, extracurricular activities also hold significant weight in strengthening students' knowledge and abilities. For language majors, extracurricular involvement, particularly in university clubs, can significantly enhance their language skills through practice. A quantitative research method was employed using a questionnaire distributed to a university's English and Chinese language majors. The findings emphasized the importance of language clubs in supporting students' development in speaking English and Chinese. Informed by relevant theory and survey data, the research team observed that these clubs operate effectively, offering many benefits such as improved reaction time for language learners, increased motivation for studying the language, opportunities for practical application, and a boost in both initiative and confidence during communication. Utilizing student feedback, the authors delve into a discussion on the role and effectiveness of language clubs for participants. This discussion then paves the way for recommendations to further enhance the effectiveness of these clubs in the future.

Pattern reconfigurable antenna with specified main lobe deflection and stable bandwidth by using bistable composite laminates

Pattern reconfiguration of antennas has become a very important measure to improve the signal gain and working bandwidth by manipulating beam direction. Developing rational methods to find the reconfigurable structure is a key problem. In this paper, a collaborative optimization method is proposed to comprehensively consider both the geometric parameters of the bistable substrate and the size of the radiation patch. This method enables the design of a pattern reconfigurable antenna with specified main lobe deflection and stable bandwidth. Specifically, by using a two-step process, the log-periodic dipole antenna (LPDA) is conformally mapped from the planar substrate to the bistable substrate. Further investigation reveals that the main lobe deflection angle and bandwidth stability are influenced by the geometric parameters of the bistable substrate and the size of radiation dipoles, respectively. Thus, these parameters are selected as design variables for solving the proposed collaborative optimization model. The transformation between two stable configurations enables the proposed LPDA to deflect the main lobe of the H-plane pattern by 30° while maintaining consistency in the E-plane patterns. Importantly, the resonant frequencies remain unaffected and the bandwidth does not decrease during the pattern reconfiguration. Notably, the pattern reconfigurable mechanism is rooted in that the transformation between the two stable configurations alters the number and position of the dipoles in the radiation region and their current path, thereby changing the radiation direction of electromagnetic waves. The proposed collaborative optimization method has a potential application for other types of antennas and offers opportunities for various applications in the field of wireless communication.

The rapid generation of E-learning tools under resource constraints approach

Enhancing the efficiency of Ukraine's security and defense sector is one of the key prerequisites for maintaining state sovereignty and achieving victory in the war. This is particularly relevant to the training and education system for specialists of the State Service of Special Communications and Information Protection of Ukraine (SSSCIP). The active phase of Russia's war against Ukraine has significantly exacerbated the contradiction between the necessity to improve the efficiency of this system on one hand and the stringent requirement to economize resources (financial, human, and temporal) on the other. Resolving this contradiction is feasible through the intensive implementation of various e-learning tools and technologies, along with associated pedagogical methodologies. One of the factors limiting the effectiveness of e-learning is the complexity of the traditional process of creating these tools. The negative impact of this factor can be mitigated by developing approaches for the rapid generation of e-learning tools. Thus, there is a need to develop an integrated approach that enables the quick creation of educational content and e-learning tools through the use of innovative technologies. Such tools should save time and enhance the efficiency of learning material assimilation. The primary requirements for this approach include the rational use of limited resources and the adaptability of outcomes to the needs of each specialist. The article proposes an integrated approach to the rapid generation of e-learning tools for studying hardware and software devices and systems. This approach includes the following stages: developing a paper version of the learning material, which is the foundation for further enhancements; supplementing the paper version with an eBook based on H5P, which ensures interactivity and flexibility in learning; introducing a simulator module that allows for the emulation of device operation, stimulates student engagement, and deepens understanding of the material; adding an augmented reality module that visualizes complex concepts and provides opportunities for practical knowledge application. The implementation of the integrated approach to the rapid generation of e-learning tools is demonstrated using the educational module "Fortinet FG-60E Firewall." This module exemplifies how the integrated approach can be applied to prepare specialists in Ukraine's security and defense sector under wartime conditions. Survey results from participants who utilized the developed integrated learning approach indicate its high effectiveness.

Low-loss and high-index contrast ultraviolet-C free-standing waveguides made of thermal silicon oxide.

Photonics in the ultraviolet provides an avenue for key advances in biosensing, pharmaceutical research, and environmental sensing. However, despite recent progress in photonic integration, a technological solution to fabricate photonic integrated circuits (PICs) operating in the UV-C wavelength range, namely, between 200 and 280 nm, remains elusive. Filling this gap will open opportunities for new applications, particularly in healthcare. A major challenge has been to identify materials with low optical absorption loss in this wavelength range that are at the same time compatible with waveguide design and large-scale fabrication. In this work, we unveil that thermal silicon oxide (TOX) on a silicon substrate is a potential candidate for integrated photonics in the UV-C, by removing the silicon substrate under selected regions to form single-side suspended ridge waveguides. We provide design guidelines for low-loss waveguide geometries, avoiding wrinkling due to residual intrinsic stress, and experimentally demonstrate waveguides that exhibit optical propagation losses below 3 and 4 dB/cm at a wavelength of 266 nm with claddings of air and water, respectively. This result paves the way for on-chip UV-C biological sensing and imaging.

Artificial intelligence in fraud prevention: Exploring techniques and applications challenges and opportunities

Artificial intelligence in fraud prevention: Exploring techniques and applications challenges and opportunities

Interplay among extracellular vesicles, cancer stemness and immune regulation in driving hepatocellular carcinoma progression

The intricate interplay among extracellular vesicles, cancer stemness properties, and the immune system significantly impacts hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) progression, treatment response, and patient prognosis. Extracellular vesicles (EVs), which are membrane-bound structures, play a pivotal role in conveying proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids between cells, thereby serving as essential mediators of intercellular communication. Since a lot of current research focuses on small extracellular vesicles (sEVs), with diameters ranging from 30 nm to 200 nm, this review emphasizes the role of sEVs in the context of interactions between HCC stemness-bearing cells and the immune cells. sEVs offer promising opportunities for the clinical application of innovative diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers in HCC. By specifically targeting sEVs, novel therapeutics aimed at cancer stemness can be developed. Ongoing investigations into the roles of sEVs in cancer stemness and immune regulation in HCC will broaden our understanding and ultimately pave the way for groundbreaking therapeutic interventions.

Polarization‐Sensitive Artificial Optoelectronic Synapse Based on Anisotropic β‐Ga2O3 Single Crystal for Neuromorphic Vision Systems and Information Encryption

AbstractA novel polarization‐sensitive artificial optoelectronic synapse based on β‐Ga2O3 single‐crystal is proposed in this work, featuring reconfigurable anisotropic vision. A series of polarization‐sensitive synaptic activities and polarization‐sensitive image recognition functions are successfully simulated using this device. The intriguing performance of this device, stems from the crystal anisotropy in β‐Ga2O3, which is confirmed through polarization Raman measurements and first‐principles theoretical calculations. Furthermore, a comprehensive analysis of the persistent photoelectric properties of the device unveils that the adaptability of the optoelectronic synapse device stems from the ionization and dissociation of oxygen vacancies. Ultimately, the device is utilized in the fields of image recognition and information encryption. A four‐layer artificial neural network with two hidden layers is constructed for recognizing handwritten digits. After training, the recognition accuracy reaches over 91.5% for both unpolarized and polarized light. Information encryption is achieved by controlling polarization states. The device enables data generation and encryption to be conducted on the same platform, mitigating exposure risks during transmission and significantly enhancing data security and confidentiality. This work presents new opportunities for future applications of polarization‐based perception systems.

Giant optical second- and third-order nonlinearities at a telecom wavelength.

A material platform that excels in both optical second- and third-order nonlinearities at a telecom wavelength is theoretically and experimentally demonstrated. In this TiN-based coupled metallic quantum well structure, electronic subbands are engineered to support doubly resonant inter-subband transitions for an exceptionally high second-order nonlinearity and provide single-photon transitions for a remarkable third-order nonlinearity within the 1400-1600 nm bandwidth. The second-order susceptibility χ(2) reaches 2840 pm/V at 1440 nm, while the Kerr coefficient n2 arrives at 2.8 × 10-10 cm2/W at 1460 nm. The achievement of simultaneous strong second- and third-order nonlinearities in one material at a telecom wavelength creates opportunities for multi-functional advanced applications in the field of nonlinear optics.

Solid-State Electromechanical Smart Material Actuators for Pumps—A Review

Solid-state electromechanical smart material actuators are versatile as they permit diverse shapes and designs and can exhibit different actuation modes. An important advantage of these actuators compared to conventional ones is that they can be easily miniaturized to a sub-millimeter scale. In recent years, there has been a great surge in novel liquid pumps operated by these smart material actuators. These devices create opportunities for applications in fields ranging from aerospace and robotics to the biomedical and drug delivery industries. Although these have mainly been prototypes, a few products have already entered the market. To assist in the further development of this research track, we provide a taxonomy of the electromechanical smart material actuators available, and subsequently focus on the ones that have been utilized for operating pumps. The latter includes unidirectional shape memory alloy-, piezoelectric ceramic-, ferroelectric polymer-, dielectric elastomer-, ionic polymer metal composite- and conducting polymer-based actuators. Their properties are reviewed in the context of engineering pumps and summarized in comprehensive tables. Given the diverse requirements of pumps, these varied smart materials and their actuators offer exciting possibilities for designing and constructing devices for a wide array of applications.

Wave-momentum shaping for moving objects in heterogeneous and dynamic media

Light and sound waves can move objects through the transfer of linear or angular momentum, which has led to the development of optical and acoustic tweezers, with applications ranging from biomedical engineering to quantum optics. Although impressive manipulation results have been achieved, the stringent requirement for a highly controlled, low-reverberant and static environment still hinders the applicability of these techniques in many scenarios. Here we overcome this challenge and demonstrate the manipulation of objects in disordered and dynamic media by optimally tailoring the momentum of sound waves iteratively in the far field. The method does not require information about the object’s physical properties or the spatial structure of the surrounding medium but relies only on a real-time scattering matrix measurement and a positional guide-star. Our experiment demonstrates the possibility of optimally moving and rotating objects to extend the reach of wave-based object manipulation to complex and dynamic scattering media. We envision new opportunities for biomedical applications, sensing and manufacturing.

A Pioneering Review on Quantitative Analysis of the Effect of Macromolecular Crowding on Drug Transport and Release: Current Implications

The intricate interplay of macromolecules within biological systems significantly influences the behavior of therapeutic agents, making the understanding of macromolecular crowding crucial for the advancement of drug delivery technologies. This review article provides a comprehensive analysis of the effects of macromolecular crowding on drug transport and release, emphasizing its quantitative impact and current implications in the field. Macromolecular crowding, characterized by the dense packing of proteins, nucleic acids, and other polymers in cellular environments, alters key biophysical properties, such as viscosity, diffusion rates, and molecular interactions. These changes critically affect the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of drugs, presenting both challenges and opportunities for therapeutic design and application. The article delves into the theoretical foundations of macromolecular crowding, grounded in thermodynamics and statistical mechanics, to elucidate how such conditions modulate drug behavior. Through an integrated review of empirical research and advanced simulation models, it highlights innovative strategies to harness crowding effects for optimizing drug delivery systems. The discussion extends to the evaluation of experimental methodologies and measurement techniques, including spectroscopy and imaging that are pivotal in quantifying the implications of crowding. This pioneering review not only synthesizes current research but also identifies gaps in knowledge and proposes directions for future investigation. It aims to serve as a vital resource for researchers and practitioners, fostering the development of more effective drug delivery mechanisms by leveraging the nuanced understanding of macromolecular crowding. This work underscores the potential of this underexplored area to significantly influence the next generation of pharmaceutical formulations and therapeutic interventions.