Transparent Solution Research Articles

Preparation, in vitro and in vivo assessment of novel carvacrol@pro-phytomicelles for the treatment of Salmonella enteritidis infection in mice.

In livestock and poultry farming, the use of antibiotics has been abused, which seriously endangers human health. Thus, antibiotic alternatives are urgently needed. The phytochemical carvacrol (CAR) has attracted attention as an antibiotic alternative due to its excellent antibacterial activity and anti-inflammatory activity. However, CAR has high volatility and low water solubility, which seriously affect its antibacterial activity. In this study, two plant-derived small-molecule phytochemicals-glycyrrhizin and rebaudioside A-were selected as nanocarriers for the preparation of a novel solid pro-phytomicelle formulation named as CAR@PP. Using a simple fabrication method, the encapsulation efficiency of CAR reached 98.74 ± 1.14 %. CAR@PP was found to rapidly dissolve in water, resulting in a transparent solution (named as CAR@M) and a 59-fold increase in solubility compared to CAR. CAR@M contained uniform nanoparticles with a particle size, polydispersity index, and zeta potential of 3.52 ± 0.93 nm, 0.17 ± 0.01, and -10.63 ± 0.45 mV, respectively. The in vitro antibacterial activity of CAR@M was evaluated, and the minimum inhibitory concentration for the tested strains was 125-250 μg/ml. The antibacterial mechanisms were found that CAR@M disrupted the bacterial wall and biomembranes and efficiently inhibited bacterial biofilm growth. To the in vivo activity evaluation, treatment with 50 mg/kg CAR@M could effectively improve bacterial liver abscesses, decrease the inflammatory cytokine levels in the liver and cecum, and reduce the bacterial load in the liver and feces in Salmonella enteritidis-infected mice. In conclusion, CAR@PP is a promising alternative to antibiotics in livestock and poultry farming warranting further research.

REVIEWING LIMITED SUPPLY CRYPTO PROJECTS: ULTIMA, COREDAOVIP

Ultima (also referred to as PLC Ultima) is a cryptocurrency and blockchain-based ecosystem aimed at providing a range of financial services. It offers tools like a cryptocurrency debit card, minting and farming solutions, cashback programs, and cryptocurrency wallets. The primary goal of Ultima is to facilitate global financial inclusion by giving users access to fintech services that traditional financial systems may not offer. On other hand, COREDAOVIP is a blockchain-based platform designed to enhance decentralized finance (DeFi) and NFT ecosystems through innovative liquidity pooling and automated trading mechanisms. Built on the foundation of Core DAO’s decentralized principles, COREDAOVIP aims to provide users with secure, transparent, and efficient financial solutions. It integrates smart contracts and cross-chain compatibility, enabling seamless interaction between different blockchain networks. Additionally, COREDAOVIP facilitates decentralized identity systems, offering users control over their data and assets while supporting NFT projects like 9NFTMania, which merges digital currency with NFT art. As DeFi and blockchain adoption grow, COREDAOVIP is positioned to play a key role in transforming financial ecosystems through enhanced security, liquidity, and decentralized governance. This platform’s innovative approach to token integration and decentralized trading enhances its potential in the rapidly evolving blockchain landscape.

Absorbance measurement for interdisciplinary educational experiment on cytotoxicity

Abstract We propose a multidisciplinary educational experiment, linking knowledge and skills in physics, biology and information technology through the training and application of the research method by students. From a physics point of view, the experiment consists in light absorption measurement, and in terms of biology, it demonstrates the process of cytotoxicity evaluation by means of the colorimetric method neutral red uptake in vitro test. The test allows to determine the concentration of a test drug at which 50% cytotoxicity (CC50 values) of the cells is observed. After initial exposure to the tested drug, neutral red (NR) is added to the cell culture medium, it is absorbed by the living cells and subsequently released in a desorb buffer. The cell culture medium becomes coloured, and the more intensive colour corresponds to higher cell viability, while more transparent solution corresponds to lower number of living cells. The NR concentration in the solution is estimated by the absorbance value. We measure the absorbance of NR by utilizing a very affordable educational-grade spectrometer and compare its output with that of a professional microplate reader. We show that the educational spectrometer gives a result on the CC50 value that is in agreement with the acceptable values of the official protocol. We include a comment on the results when performing this laboratory exercise in one class of 18 year old students (in their last year of secondary education). The experiment can be also successfully applied in the laboratory practicum of first year university study.

DEVELOPMENT OF FIELD WORK PRACTICE MANAGEMENT IN INFORMATICS INTEGRATED SERVICE SYSTEM

Field work practice is crucial for aligning college education with workplace skills, but manual management poses challenges such as time-consuming processes and limited information access, particularly within the Informatics Program at Mulawarman University. This research explores integrating field work practice with mobile technology through Rapid Application Development, resulting in a comprehensive field work practice management mobile app. Data collected from direct observation and student questionnaires inform the app's development. The app covers various field work practice aspects, facilitating efficient student engagement, and Black Box testing confirms its functionality without errors. This research significantly contributes to field work practice management, offering stakeholders an efficient, transparent, and well-integrated solution for field work practice implementation in academic settings, ultimately aiming to enhance convenience and accelerate the field work practice process for all involved parties.

Exploring the critical drivers of blockchain technology adoption in Indian industries using the best-worst method

PurposeThe purpose of our research on blockchain technology is to unveil its immense potential, understand its applications and implications and identify opportunities to revolutionize existing systems and processes. This research aims to inspire the creation of new innovative solutions for industries. By harnessing blockchain technology, organizations can pinpoint key areas that could significantly benefit from its use, such as streamlining operations, providing secure and transparent digital solutions and fortifying data security.Design/methodology/approachThis study presents a robust multi-criteria decision-making framework for assessing blockchain drivers in selected Indian industries. We initiated with an extensive literature review to identify potential drivers. We then sought the opinions of experts in the field to validate and refine our list. This meticulous process led us to identify 26 drivers, which we categorized into five main categories. Finally, we employed the Best-Worst Method to determine the relative importance of each criterion, ensuring a comprehensive and reliable assessment.FindingsThe authors have ranked the blockchain drivers based on their degree of importance using the Best-Worst Method. This study reveals the priority of BC implementation, with the retail industry identified as the most in need, followed by the Banking and Healthcare industries. Various critical factors are identified where blockchain technology could help reduce costs, increase efficiency and enable new innovative business models.Research limitations/implicationsWhile this study acknowledges potential bias in driver assessment relying on literature and expert opinions, its findings carry significant practical implications. We have identified key areas where blockchain technology could be transformative by focusing on select industries. Future research should encompass other industries and real-world case studies for practical insights that could delve into the adoption challenges and benefits of blockchain technology in many other industries, thereby amplifying the relevance of our findings.Originality/valueBlockchain is a groundbreaking, innovative technology with immense potential to revolutionize industries. Past research has explored the benefits and challenges of blockchain implementation in specific industries or sectors. This creates a gap in research regarding systematically classifying and ranking the importance of blockchain across different Indian industries. Our research seeks to address this gap by using advanced multi-criteria decision-making techniques. We aim to provide a comprehensive understanding of the significance of blockchain technology in critical Indian industries, offering valuable insights that can inform strategic decision-making and drive innovation in the country’s business landscape.

E-Voting in India: A Secure, Transparent, and Cost-Efficient Future Through Blockchain and Aadhaar Integration

This paper explores the potential for e-voting in India, focusing on the challenges of the current electoral system and how the integration of blockchain technology and Aadhaar can provide secure, transparent, and cost-efficient solutions. Drawing on global examples from countries like Estonia, Switzerland, and Brazil, the paper presents a case for India’s transition to e-voting, supported by data analysis of costs, voter turnout, environmental impact, and security concerns. It also proposes an implementation strategy, including cybersecurity measures, pilot programs, and legislative reforms required to bring e-voting to life in India.

HARNESSING BIG DATA AND MACHINE LEARNING FOR TRANSFORMATIVE HEALTHCARE INFORMATION MANAGEMENT

This study explores the transformative impact of big data and machine learning (ML) on healthcare information management, drawing insights from a comprehensive review of 50 peer-reviewed articles published between 2010 and 2023. The analysis highlights significant advancements in predictive analytics, with ML models improving disease prediction accuracy by up to 40% compared to traditional methods, as demonstrated in multiple studies. Personalized medicine has also benefited, with ML-driven treatment plans showing a 25% improvement in chronic disease management and a 15% reduction in treatment failures, as reported in several case studies. Additionally, integrating big data and ML into healthcare operations has led to a 35% reduction in patient wait times and a 20% decrease in hospital readmissions. However, challenges such as data fragmentation, privacy concerns, and algorithmic bias were identified in over 60% of the reviewed studies, indicating the need for stronger regulatory frameworks. This review underscores the potential of big data and ML to revolutionize healthcare while also calling attention to the ethical and practical challenges that must be addressed to ensure equitable and transparent healthcare solutions.

The Use of Blockchain in Securing Patient Data

As healthcare digitization progresses, securing sensitive patient data remains a critical challenge. Blockchain, a decentralized digital ledger technology, offers a promising solution by providing enhanced data integrity, security, and privacy. This paper examines the use of blockchain in healthcare for safeguarding patient data, examining its ability to mitigate cyber threats, ensure compliance with regulations, and promote trust in healthcare providers. Through case studies and real-world applications, this paper demonstrates how blockchain can revolutionize data security by offering decentralized, tamper-resistant, and transparent solutions. However, challenges related to its implementation, regulation, and adoption are also discussed. Ultimately, blockchain holds significant potential in transforming healthcare data management, but its adoption must be carefully navigated. Keywords: Blockchain, Patient Data Security, Healthcare, Decentralized Ledger, Data Privacy.

Application Properties of Gemini Quaternary Ammonium Salt with Quadra‐cationic Sites and Sodium Fatty Alcohol Polyoxyethylene Ether Carboxylate Mixed Systems

AbstractThe application properties such as foam property, electrolyte tolerance, antibacterial activity and antistatic performance of the mixed systems of a novel Gemini quaternary ammonium salt with quadra‐cationic sites (TC‐GS) and sodium fatty alcohol polyoxyethylene ether carboxylate (AE9CNa) at various molar fraction of TC‐GS (αTC‐GS), were investigated systematically. Results show that TC‐GS/AE9CNa mixed systems with different ratios form a homogeneous and transparent solution, which exhibits excellent foam stability and antibacterial activity. The foam volume of the mixed system remains nearly constant from 400 s to 1000 s, and even when TC‐GS is 10 mg/L in the mixed systems, the antibacterial rates against Escherichia coli (E. coli) and Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) for 2 min. are all exceeded 99 %. The mixed systems of TC‐GS/AE9CNa at various αTC‐GS also demonstrate the superior electrolyte tolerance, their maximum tolerance of NaCl, CaCl2 and MgCl2 is severally beyond 270 g/L, 180 g/L and 180 g/L. In addition, both TC‐GS solution and the mixed systems have good antistatic properties, which can reduce the surface resistance of polyester fabric to ≤1010 Ω.

A blockchain-based platform for incentivizing customer reviews in the grocery industry

Nowadays, user-generated content is pivotal for many companies: people trust other customers' opinions more than any brand advertisement. Brands are aware of this and try to promote and motivate their customers to create high-quality content. However, this way of operating is still at an early stage: there is a lack of fairness, as companies typically do not provide a validation system, or if they do, it is not based on a transparent solution, and often there is no reward for creating unique and high-quality content. In this paper, we focus on the problem of incentivizing the user's creation of content in the form of customer reviews in the online grocery industry. Specifically, we illustrate the solution to the problem devised in the Re-Taled project by relying on blockchain technology. We developed a decentralized ecosystem of consumers, influencers, and manufacturers, where content creators are rewarded for their contribution according to a framework that provides incentives in the form of both reputation and monetization. Blockchain technology is used to certify the content's authenticity and compensate content creators with a cryptographic token. We illustrate the technical choices of the solution together with its software architecture and implemented platform. In particular, we introduce the framework used to validate the trustworthiness of user-generated content and favor fairness and transparency within the platform.

User perception of fluoride mouthwashes for daily use: A randomized clinical trial.

To assess user perceptions of different commercially available fluoride mouthwashes (FL-MWs). A single-blind, randomized clinical trial was conducted. Participants were randomly assigned to a sequence of six different FL-MWs, one of which contained alcohol. For each visit, participants rinsed with one specific mouthwash (15 mL) for 30 s. After rinsing, participants completed a questionnaire with a visual analogue scale. Questions focused on overall taste, mild/pungent feeling, taste duration, foaming effect, burning sensation, sensitivity, numbness, dryness, rinsing time, smell, and colour of the mouthwashes. Descriptive analyses and statistical tests regarding differences among and between the mouthwashes were performed. Overall, 53 participants completed the study protocol, including nine who did, however, not rinse with the alcohol-containing mouthwash due to religious reasons. Among the mouthwashes, significant differences were found for foaming effect, sensitivity, rinsing time, smell, and colour (p < 0.05). Pairwise comparison for smell did not reveal a difference, and foaming was within the acceptance range (low to medium foaming). Coloured mouthwashes were more appreciated than transparent solutions (p = 0.00). The mouthwash containing essential oils and alcohol produced significantly more sensitivity (p = 0.00) and, in general, participants experienced the rinsing time significantly longer (p < 0.05) compared to the non-alcohol-containing mouthwashes. There is heterogeneity in user perceptions and preferences for FL-MWs, with a significant difference in foaming effect, sensitivity, rinsing time, smell, and colour. Coloured mouthwashes are preferred. The mouthwash containing essential oils and alcohol was less acceptable in relation to sensitivity and rinsing time.

Fabrication of Ruby by 3D printing of transparent salt solutions

A novel method is presented for fabricating 3D-printed Cr3+-doped α-Al2O3 complex structures, known as Ruby, using digital light processing (DLP) 3D printing and sol-gel reactions based on solutions only. The aqueous printing solution comprises aluminum and chromium chloride as the sol-gel precursor and acrylic acid (AA) as the polymerizable component. After photopolymerization, aging, and sintering at 1150°C, structures shrink up to 28±7 %, achieving a final printing resolution of 55.7±0.7 μm, surpassing the nominal printer’s resolution of 200 μm. Characterization includes X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, UV-Vis, and fluorescence measurements, revealing crystalline Cr:α-Al2O3 composition emitting at 693 nm. The structures exhibit maximum compression stress of 89±3 MPa and microhardness of 340–500 HV, showcasing potential applications in thermal insulation, jewelry, and mechanical uses.

β-(1 → 4)-Polyglucuronic acids with C2/C3-ketones prepared from regenerated cellulose by catalytic oxidation using solid NaOCl·5H2O

Three commercial regenerated cellulose samples were subjected to TEMPO-catalyzed oxidation using solid NaOCl·5H2O as the primary oxidant for structural analyses of the oxidized products (TEMPO = 2,2,6,6-tetramethylpiperidine-1-oxyl). The regenerated cellulose/water slurries became transparent solutions after oxidation for 60 min. The yields of the oxidized products were almost 100 % when they were isolated as precipitates in ethanol/water mixtures. The solution-state NMR spectra revealed that the oxidized products were almost pure water-soluble β-(1 → 4)-polyglucuronic acids; the reaction conditions described herein ensured the complete oxidation of the C6–OH groups in the regenerated cellulose samples to C6-carboxy groups. However, the solid-state 13C NMR spectra of the oxidized products indicated that C2/C3-ketones (<20 % of the total units) were formed during side reactions, which is characteristic for oxidized products prepared from regenerated cellulose with the C2/C3-glycol structure. These ketones were likely to form intermolecular hemiacetal linkages in the oxidized products. During conductivity titration of the oxidized products, it is necessary to control the sample masses to accurately determine the carboxy contents. The mass-average degree of polymerization decreased from 330 to 890 for the original regenerated cellulose samples to 65–79 for the oxidized products; substantial depolymerization is inevitable during TEMPO-catalyzed oxidation of the regenerated cellulose samples.

Inklusi Keuangan dan Pemberdayaan Ekonomi: Evaluasi Efektivitas Produk Keuangan Syariah dalam Meningkatkan Akses Keuangan bagi Masyarakat Marginal

Financial inclusion and economic empowerment have become major focal points in efforts to improve financial access for marginalized communities. This is particularly crucial in the current global context where economic inequality and access to financial services remain serious issues. This article aims to evaluate the role of Shariah-compliant financial products in supporting financial inclusion and economic empowerment among marginalized groups. The literature review method used in this article provides a strong foundation for collecting and analyzing various related articles, including policy reviews and market analyses. Through in-depth review, this article illustrates that Shariah-compliant financial products have significant potential to provide more inclusive, transparent, and sustainable solutions in enhancing financial access for marginalized communities. Key factors such as trust, understanding of Shariah principles, and supportive regulations are also emphasized as essential elements in strengthening the effectiveness of these financial products. Additionally, the implications of the findings in this article are crucial in providing guidance for stakeholders, regulators, and financial practitioners. By understanding the potential and advantages of Shariah-compliant financial products, stakeholders can develop more effective strategies to improve financial inclusion and economic empowerment among marginalized communities. Thus, this article not only provides insights but also offers a clear direction for further steps in strengthening financial access for all layers of society, while promoting sustainable and inclusive economic development.

Asset-level assessment of climate physical risk matters for adaptation finance

Climate physical risk assessment is crucial to inform adaptation policies and finance. However, science-based and transparent solutions to assess climate physical risks are limited, compounding the adaptation gap. This is a main limitation to fill the adaptation gap. We provide a methodology that quantifies physical risks on geolocalized productive assets, considering their exposure to chronic and acute impacts (hurricanes) across the scenarios of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change. Then, we translate asset-level shocks into economic and financial losses. We apply the methodology to Mexico, a country highly exposed to physical risks, recipient of adaptation finance and foreign investments. We show that investor losses are underestimated up to 70% when neglecting asset-level information, and up to 82% when neglecting tail acute risks. Therefore, neglecting the asset-level and acute dimensions of physical risks leads to large errors in the identification of adaptation policy responses, investments and finance tools aimed to build resilience to climate change.

Advancements in Characterization Techniques for Microemulsions: From Molecular Insights to Macroscopic Phenomena.

Microemulsions are thermodynamically stable, optically isotropic, transparent, or semi-transparent mixed solutions composed of two immiscible solvents stabilized by amphiphilic solutes. This comprehensive review explores state-of-the-art techniques for characterizing microemulsions, which are versatile solutions essential across various industries, such as pharmaceuticals, food, and petroleum. This article delves into spectroscopic methods, nuclear magnetic resonance, small-angle scattering, dynamic light scattering, conductometry, zeta potential analysis, cryo-electron microscopy, refractive index measurement, and differential scanning calorimetry, examining each technique's strengths, limitations, and potential applications. Emphasizing the necessity of a multi-technique approach for a thorough understanding, it underscores the importance of integrating diverse analytical methods to unravel microemulsion structures from molecular to macroscopic scales. This synthesis provides a roadmap for researchers and practitioners, fostering advancements in microemulsion science and its wide-ranging industrial applications.

Turbulent impingement jet cleaning of thick viscoplastic layers

An experimental study is conducted on the use of a normally impinging turbulent water jet (with the Reynolds number of Re≈11800), for cleaning thick layers of a Newtonian fluid and two viscoplastic fluids (i.e., transparent Carbopol solutions). The layer thickness is larger than the jet radius. Non-intrusive techniques are used to track the geometrical features of the cleaning process in real time. The effects of layer thickness and fluid yield stress on removal behavior, including cleaning radius, cavity radius, and angle, are investigated. A yield stress promotes the initial formation of a blister rather than a cavity, and the rate of removal decreases with increasing layer thickness and yield stress. A relation is presented for the growth of the cavity radius, which fits our experimental observations well. A comparative analysis of submerged and impinging jets reveals, for the first time, the role of air entrainment in the process, with bubble characteristics such as trajectory, size distribution (diameter), and velocity being determined by the yield stress.

Large Language Models and OpenLogos: An Educational Case Scenario.

Large Language Models (LLMs) offer advanced text generation capabilities, sometimes surpassing human abilities. However, their use without proper expertise poses significant challenges, particularly in educational contexts. This article explores different facets of natural language generation (NLG) within the educational realm, assessing its advantages and disadvantages, particularly concerning LLMs. It addresses concerns regarding the opacity of LLMs and the potential bias in their generated content, advocating for transparent solutions. Therefore, it examines the feasibility of integrating OpenLogos expert-crafted resources into language generation tools used for paraphrasing and translation. In the context of the Multi3Generation COST Action (CA18231), we have been emphasizing the significance of incorporating OpenLogos into language generation processes, and the need for clear guidelines and ethical standards in generative models involving multilingual, multimodal, and multitasking capabilities. The Multi3Generation initiative strives to progress NLG research for societal welfare, including its educational applications. It promotes inclusive models inspired by the Logos Model, prioritizing transparency, human control, preservation of language principles and meaning, and acknowledgment of the expertise of resource creators. We envision a scenario where OpenLogos can contribute significantly to inclusive AI-supported education. Ethical considerations and limitations related to AI implementation in education are explored, highlighting the importance of maintaining a balanced approach consistent with traditional educational principles. Ultimately, the article advocates for educators to adopt innovative tools and methodologies to foster dynamic learning environments that facilitate linguistic development and growth.

Blockchain Revolution in Asset Management: A Comprehensive Analysis and Implementation Framework

A project that presents the harnesses blockchain technology to develop a Token Asset Management System (TAMS) aimed at revolutionizing conventional asset management practices. TAMS leverages the decentralized and transparent nature of blockchain to create digital tokens representing ownership or rights to various assets. These tokens enable fractional ownership, streamlined trading, and automated execution of smart contracts for dividends and voting. The project's primary objectives are to enhance efficiency, security, and transparency in asset management. By digitizing assets and recording transactions on an immutable ledger, TAMS reduces the need for intermediaries, minimizes administrative costs, and ensures auditability. Smart contracts automate key processes, improving accuracy and trust among participants. The project's implementation involves selecting an appropriate blockchain platform, designing token standards, creating an intuitive user interface, and adhering to regulatory requirements. The potential challenges of scalability and legal compliance are also considered. In summary, the Token Asset Management project exemplifies blockchain's potential to transform asset management. Through tokenization and blockchain's features, TAMS aims to establish a modernized ecosystem that offers efficient, secure, and transparent asset management solutions.

Introduction of the Capsules environment to support further growth of the SBGrid structural biology software collection.

The expansive scientific software ecosystem, characterized by millions of titles across various platforms and formats, poses significant challenges in maintaining reproducibility and provenance in scientific research. The diversity of independently developed applications, evolving versions and heterogeneous components highlights the need for rigorous methodologies to navigate these complexities. In response to these challenges, the SBGrid team builds, installs and configures over 530 specialized software applications for use in the on-premises and cloud-based computing environments of SBGrid Consortium members. To address the intricacies of supporting this diverse application collection, the team has developed the Capsule Software Execution Environment, generally referred to as Capsules. Capsules rely on a collection of programmatically generated bash scripts that work together to isolate the runtime environment of one application from all other applications, thereby providing a transparent cross-platform solution without requiring specialized tools or elevated account privileges for researchers. Capsules facilitate modular, secure software distribution while maintaining a centralized, conflict-free environment. The SBGrid platform, which combines Capsules with the SBGrid collection of structural biology applications, aligns with FAIR goals by enhancing the findability, accessibility, interoperability and reusability of scientific software, ensuring seamless functionality across diverse computing environments. Its adaptability enables application beyond structural biology into other scientific fields.