Use Of Innovative Materials Research Articles

Recent Advances in Thermally Activated Delayed Fluorescent Materials in Type II Photodynamic Therapy.

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) represents a novel, dual-stage cancer treatment approach that combines light energy and photosensitizers to destroy cancerous and precancerous cells through the generation of radicals (Type I) or singlet oxygen (Type II). Since the early 2010s, PDT has advanced significantly, with the focus shifting toward the exploration of molecules capable of thermally activated delayed fluorescence (TADF) as viable alternatives to traditional metallic complexes and organometallic compounds for producing the necessary active species. TADF molecules exhibit higher energy conversion efficiency, long-lived triplet excitons, tunable photophysical properties, and a small singlet-triplet energy gap, facilitating efficient intersystem crossing and enhanced singlet oxygen generation. As metal-free luminophores, they offer benefits such as reduced health risks, high structural flexibility, and biocompatibility, which can significantly enhance PDT treatment efficacy. Notably, in 2019, a pivotal shift occurred, with researchers concentrating their efforts on identifying and investing in potential molecules specifically for Type II PDT applications. This review presents the innovative use of materials characterized by closely spaced S1 and T1 orbitals, crucial for the efficient generation of singlet oxygen in PDT. Exploring these materials opens new avenues for enhancing the efficacy and specificity of PDT, offering promising for future cancer treatments.

Prospects for the Art Packaging Design Development

The article is dedicated to studying the prospects for the development of art packaging design and identifying the characteristic features of this field. The primary objective of the research is to analyse current trends and prospects for the development of art packaging design, determine its role in shaping consumer demand, and assess the impact of aesthetic and functional aspects on consumer choice. The research methodology involves a comprehensive approach, including the study of literature on the topic and the research of successful examples of art packaging made by students of the Master’s programme in Visual Communication Design at the Kharkiv State Academy of Arts and Design. Observations and testing of prototypes are focused on the targeted study of the product in the environment and in interaction with the user. The scientific novelty of the research lies in a comprehensive analysis of current trends in the design of art packaging and the identification of new approaches to its creation, which take into account the study of the role of multisensory elements in shaping a positive consumer experience; study of innovative eco-friendly materials and technologies used in the creation of art packaging; analysis of the impact of socio-cultural factors on the design of art packaging and its perception by consumers; study of new technologies that allow making art packaging interactive for interaction with consumers. Conclusions. The research has shown that packaging plays an important role in building a brand and increasing consumer loyalty. We conclude that the harmonious combination of aesthetics and functionality is a key factor in the success of packaging; the use of innovative materials and technologies contributes to the creation of unique and environmentally friendly products; the involvement of multiple sensory experiences increases the emotional connection of the consumer with the product; design that takes into account cultural characteristics and values is better perceived by consumers and strengthens brand identification; interactive elements increase consumer interest and engagement, creating additional value for the product. The study has revealed prospects for further development of packaging design based on innovative and creative approaches that can significantly increase the competitiveness of products in the market.

Capacitive lithium capture system using a mixed LiMn2O4 and LiAlO2 material

The increasing demand for lithium (Li), a crucial material in various industries, requires efficient recovery methods and a shift toward a circular economy. This study investigates a fast, eco-friendly technique for selective Li recovery, emphasizing the use of innovative materials from spent Li-ion batteries (SLiBs), particularly LiMn2O4(LMO)/LiAlO2(LAO)-based materials, to enhance Li's circular economy. Conventional Li recovery methods typically involve prolonged processes with chemical additives and environmental concerns, whereas electrochemical systems like membrane-based capacitive deionization (MCDI) offer promising high removal capacities, regeneration ability, and scalability. However, no commercial electrochemical Li recovery system underscores the need for continued research to improve their performance. This study employs MCDI for selective Li recovery, examining various electrode materials, including commercial activated carbon, LMO-based electrodes, and modified LMO/LAO-based electrodes. The mixed LiMn2O4/LiAlO2 cathode exhibited high selectivity for Li+ extraction with a recovery efficiency of 83.1 %, achieving a deionization capacity of 38.15 mg/g at 1.0 V under an initial feed concentration of 5 mM LiCl. The Li+ adsorption reached 900 μmol/g, with a separation factor (αMg2+Li+) of 3.77 (CMg2+/CLi+ = 1), setting a robust foundation for a comprehensive Li recovery framework that meets the increasing Li demand while minimizing environmental impact.

Current Advances and Material Innovations in the Search for Novel Treatments of Phenylketonuria.

Phenylketonuria (PKU) is a genetically inherited disease caused by a mutation of the gene encoding phenylalanine hydroxylase (PAH) and is the most common inborn error of amino acid metabolism. A deficiency of PAH leads to increased blood and brain levels of phenylalanine (Phe), which may cause permanent neurocognitive symptoms and developmental delays if untreated. Current management strategies for PKU consist of early detection through neonatal screening and implementation of a restrictive diet with minimal amounts of natural protein in combination with Phe-free supplements and low-protein foods to meet nutritional requirements. For milder forms of PKU, oral treatment with synthetic sapropterin (BH4), the cofactor of PAH, may improve metabolic control of Phe and allow for more natural protein to be included in the patient's diet. For more severe forms, daily injections of pegvaliase, a PEGylated variant of phenylalanine ammonia-lyase (PAL), may allow for normalization of blood Phe levels. However, the latter treatment has considerable drawbacks, notably a strong immunogenicity of the exogenous enzyme and the attached polymeric chains. Research for novel therapies of PKU makes use of innovative materials for drug delivery and state-of-the-art protein engineering techniques to develop treatments which are safer, more effective, and potentially permanent.

Integrating Sustainability into Contemporary Art and Design: An Interdisciplinary Approach

This study confronts the ambiguous concept of sustainability within contemporary art and design, seeking to define and operationalize it through an interdisciplinary lens. By synthesizing philosophical, technological, and artistic methodologies, this research utilizes qualitative analysis and detailed case studies to evaluate the sustainable attributes of modern decorative arts. Focusing on the integration of nature and technology, the investigation spans various artistic disciplines, critically assessing their contributions to sustainable practices. The results indicate that an innovative use of materials and avant-garde design approaches significantly advance sustainability, highlighting the role of contemporary art in promoting environmental consciousness and sustainability in policy-making. Conclusively, in this paper, a paradigm shift in art and design education and policy is argued for, advocating for a proactive engagement with sustainability that extends beyond traditional artistic boundaries, thus providing a framework for future sustainable development strategies in the arts. This study offers a comprehensive model for understanding and implementing sustainability that could influence future artistic and educational practices globally.

Evaluation of Non-Invasive Wearable Diabetes Sensors

<b>Introduction</b> Diabetes management has increasingly emphasised the need for continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) systems, promoting advancements in non-invasive wearable diabetes sensors. This comprehensive review explores the latest developments in this field, focusing on the types, technological advancements, and challenges associated with these devices. The review is structured into distinct sections that examine the current state and future directions of optical, electromagnetic, and transdermal sensors, along with emerging technologies in non-invasive glucose monitoring. The review examines the technological enhancements that have improved sensor accuracy and precision, ergonomic designs for increased comfort, and advancements in data analytics that integrate machine learning for predictive analytics. Comparison of the major challenges such as maintaining sensor accuracy and reliability, ensuring user compliance, safeguarding data privacy, and overcoming cost-related barriers are explored. Furthermore, the paper discusses the promising future directions like the use of innovative materials, the integration of artificial intelligence, and the importance of regulatory and ethical considerations in the development of CGM technologies. This review not only underscores the significant progress made in the field but also highlights the critical need for ongoing research to overcome existing limitations. The implications of these technologies extend beyond individual patient management to broader applications in healthcare and lifestyle monitoring, promoting crucial shift towards more personalised and accessible diabetes management solutions. <b>Material and Methods</b> <b>Results</b> <b>Conclusions</b> <b></b> <b></b>

Theoretical aspects regarding the use of autologous and allogeneic septal cartilage transplantation in rhinologic surgical procedures

The study examines the use of autologous and allogeneic septal cartilage transplantation in rhinoplasty and rhi­no­sep­to­plasty. Innovative surgical techniques such as endoscopic and open septal cartilage harvesting were examined, high­ligh­ting advantages such as faster postoperative re­co­very and better visualization of nasal anatomy, as well as dis­ad­van­tages such as a steep learning curve and com­pli­ca­tions as­so­cia­ted with endoscopic manipulation. The postoperative out­­comes of patients undergoing rhinoplasty with auto­lo­gous car­ti­lage implants showed increased satisfaction re­gar­ding na­sal esthetic appearance and functionality. Re­gar­ding al­lo­ge­neic cartilage transplantation, risks of re­jec­tion and in­fec­tion were highlighted. Future perspectives in sep­tal car­ti­lage transplantation included improving surgical tech­­niques and optimizing outcomes, as well as exploring the use of innovative materials and technologies for cartilage tissue regeneration and remodeling. Aspects related to the in­te­gra­tion and revitalization of transplanted cartilage were studied in detail, including processes of angiogenesis, cel­lular colonization, and extracellular matrix biosynthesis. Sur­geons’ preferences regarding the use of autologous or al­lo­ge­neic cartilage were examined, highlighting the reasons and criteria underlying their choices. In conclusion, cartilage trans­plants are effective and safe in rhinologic surgical inter­ven­tions, although the study has limitations related to source avai­la­bi­lity and methodological variability.

Punk Fashion as a Wearable Art Mask

This research analyses how punk fashion influenced wearable art masks, detailing their artistic characteristics. Investigating the use of punk style in creating masks, it explores its diverse role in spirituality, performance, and self-expression. Artists utilised masks as a means of self-representation outside of the punk subculture, using diverse materials and techniques. This study describes the integration of punk identity into wearable art, showcasing experiments with waste materials and ready-purchased materials. This discovery highlights the innovative use of materials and techniques in making mask sculptures, contributing to understanding the fusion of punk fashion with wearable art.

Clinical Outcomes of Implant-supported Fixed Dental Prosthesis for Full-mouth Rehabilitation Using Different Restorative Materials: A Systematic Review

Introduction: A fixed dental prosthesis supported by implants can be made from a variety of restorative materials for full-mouth rehabilitation. Since scientific study on the materials utilized has a variety of design features, evaluating the effects of various prosthetic materials on the oral environment is a challenge. Furthermore, the impact of prosthodontic material choice on the clinical outcome is still not entirely clear. The current systematic review’s goal was to examine how different restorative materials performed clinically in patients who were receiving fixed dental prosthesis (FDP) supported by implants. Materials and Methods: Using the developed search approach, a systematic electronic search was conducted. “Does the use of different restorative materials have any effect on the clinical outcomes of full-mouth rehabilitation with implant-supported fixed dental prosthesis?” was the main research question for this study, which was formulated using the Population, Intervention, Comparison and Outcome (PICO) framework. Results: Technical issues were far more common than biological ones, with “fracture of veneering material” and “fracture of framework” being the most frequent technical mishaps. The most common biological outcome was “marginal bone loss of 2 mm.” Conclusions: The clinical results of rehabilitation using implant-supported FDPs are significantly influenced by the prosthesis’s design and manufacturing process as well as the restorative material. To ascertain the use of innovative materials and specify their precise therapeutic indications with randomized clinical trials and extended follow-up, more comparative clinical investigations are needed.

Effective salary policy as a component of the development strategy

The inefficient distribution of income in society creates a number of problems, the main of which are the following: approved social standards are at least two times lower than the actual value of the minimum consumer basket, half of the Pension Fund's income is formed at the expense of subsidies, and half of the country's households need subsidies to pay for housing and communal services. As a result, there is no solvent demand for goods and services on the market, which slows down the socio-economic development of the state. The need for radical improvement of the principles of income distribution in society determines the relevance of the research topic. The task is to determine the legal means of effective distribution of income in order to accelerate the socio-economic development of the state. The drivers of economic growth based on wages and/or profits of enterprises are analyzed. However, none of the possibilities will be realized in the absence of a stable or at least predictable exchange rate of the hryvnia, a progressive income tax system and fair market prices. The socialist ideology of the connection of wages with labor productivity, which is equated with labor intensity, does not allow to implement the optimal distribution of incomes and restrains the socio-economic development of the state. Labor productivity is determined by the level of production equipment and technology, the progressiveness of technological processes, the use of innovative materials, the introduction of patents and know-how, etc., which provides for higher qualification of personnel and higher wages and determines the direction of using the received profits and attracting investments. The regulator of the use of profits is the tax system and progressive tax rates. Income distribution in society should be determined by acceptable social standards and ensured by the application of progressive personal income tax rates. Amendments to the Tax Code of Ukraine have been proposed, which will ensure the solution of the set tasks

Influence of Temperature on Shear Behavior of Lightweight Reinforced Concrete Beams Using Pozzolana Aggregate and Expanded Polystyrene Beads

The innovation inherent to employing expanded polystyrene (EPS) beads lies in its transformative impact on traditional concrete practices. Through the incorporation of EPS beads in concrete mixtures, a novel approach emerges that significantly alters the material’s characteristics, and opens up new avenues for construction and design. Studying the shear behavior of RC beams made with EPS beads is essential for advancing knowledge, improving design practices, ensuring structural integrity, and promoting the effective and responsible use of innovative materials in construction. This research experimentally investigated the effect of using EPS beads and pozzolana aggregate (PA) on the shear behavior of the RC beams. A total of 27 simply supported rectangular beams were cast, using three novel distinct mix designs, and were subjected to two-point load testing until failure. These three mixes were categorized as follows: a control mix, a mix with only EPS, and a mix with EPS, along with an additive. The ultimate failure load was experimentally recorded for all specimens, and the influence of the temperature (300 °C and 600 °C) on the RC beams made with EPS was examined. The findings revealed a reduction in the concrete compressive strength and density in the beams containing EPS and EPS with superplasticizers of (21.7%, 24.9%) and (11.3%, 16.2%), respectively. Additionally, EPS played a significant role in diminishing the ultimate shear capacity of the beams, compared to the control beams, by about 19.4%. However, the addition of a superplasticizer along with the EPS helped to maintain the beam capacity, to some extent. Conversely, the beams exposed to a temperature of 300 °C exhibited an almost similar capacity to that of the control beams without heating. Nevertheless, at 600 °C, the beams displayed a noticeable decrease in the ultimate load capacity, compared to the unheated control beams.

Exploring the intersection of equipment design and human physical ability: Leveraging biomechanics, ergonomics/anthropometry, and wearable technology for enhancing human physical performance

This perspective article highlights the development of sports equipment design and development. The impact of ergonomics/anthropometry and biomechanics on sports equipment design is discussed, focusing on the need for physical enhancement, and accommodating equipment for a diverse range of users. The use of innovative materials in sports equipment design, which has led to increased energy return and power output during sports performance, is also highlighted. Further, the article emphasizes the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration among various academic disciplines to examine past problem-solving approaches, develop new methods, and identify future research directions. Additionally, the article discusses four generations of sports equipment design, each characterized by specific design and engineering approaches that have significantly improved athletic performance. The fourth/current generation is expected to focus on biologically altering or modifying human physical capabilities to enhance athletic performance, with wearable technology identified as a key tool in this endeavor. Overall, the article provides a comprehensive overview of the evolution of sports equipment design and the role of interdisciplinary collaboration in enhancing human physical ability in sports. The article encourages further research in this area, particularly in the use of wearable technology and material innovation to enhance athletic performance in the future.

Investigation on Behavior of Stone Columns in Soils under Predominant Settlement

Abstract: Recent advances have made stone columns more efficient and effective for addressing soil instability and improving the load-bearing capacity of weak soils. The present study aims to show that the behavior of stone columns can support most of the load transferred to the soil. The use of innovative materials, such as recycled glass, plastic, or tire shreds, as a replacement for traditional stone fill, has been investigated in recent years and has shown promising results in cost and sustainability. The development of advanced numerical modeling techniques, such as finite element analysis, has enabled engineers to understand the behavior of stone columns better and optimize their design for specific soil conditions. The load-displacement characteristics are considered governing parameters for understanding the capacity of stone columns. The study reveals that, stone column method significantly increases strength with the use of concrete waste lo demolished waste rather than stone aggregate, which can overcome this soil behavior. Additionally, stone columns are helpful for soil stabilization in areas with high water tables when other stabilization techniques are ineffective

Editorial: Engineering sustainability through innovative use of materials and assessment

Editorial: Engineering sustainability through innovative use of materials and assessment

Towards a holistic performance-based design approach

Miguel Martinez-Paneda describes current performance-based design uses, and advocates the potential for its wider application in a holistic approach. Synopsis Performance-based design (PBD) originated as a response to the considerable structural and non-structural damage experienced by buildings during earthquakes in the 1990s. Its application is gradually extending into other fields in a trend that is likely to continue as the power of computational and analysis tools increases. PBD has the potential to deliver more resilient and reliable designs than a prescriptive code-based approach, and to allow the use of innovative materials and technologies, provided that reliability targets and performance goals are met. A move away from a one-size-fits-all code-based approach has the potential to result in significantly more economical and lower-carbon designs. This article describes current PBD uses and state of the art, and advocates the potential for its wider application in a holistic approach.

Simulation of an emergency situation of a digital architecture object

The article considers information modeling an emergency impact in the study of the stability of a digital architecture building to progressive collapse with the help of a local destruction simulator using the finite element method. A non-linear processor was used, the calculations were performed by the step-iterative method with automatic step selection. When calculating a digital architecture building for progressive collapse, a technique in a quasi-static formulation was used. Measures were developed to effectively counter the emergency. Since the placement of stiffness floors in the current regulatory documentation is advisory in nature, the need to install outrigger floors in relation to a digital architecture building was studied. The concept of a building of digital architecture of a complex shape in the plan was developed. To determine the most loaded rod element of the calculation model, the calculation of the frame of a unique building was performed at the stage of normal operation. At the 2nd stage, this element was switched off from work, and a computational model was obtained for simulating an emergency. As a result of a series of numerical experiments, taking into account various scenarios of emergency impact on the frame of a digital architecture building, a constructive scheme of a unique building with outrigger floors was developed. The unique building resulting from shaping will have a low weight skeleton, taking into account the use of innovative materials. The collaboration of digital technologies and innovative materials will allow the construction industry to move to a completely new level of development.

Development trends in suburban real estate sector

The authors of the research work, based on the analysis of market development trends and key success factors, form a SWOT matrix for out-of-town real estate objects under construction and calculate the evaluation of the matrix factors, which are used to determine the current and desired position of the object of construction in the positioning field. The main research methods are formal-logical, abstract, and empirical. Statistical methods (groupings, averages) and methods of expert evaluations were used to determine the most significant factors of SWOT matrix and to develop perspective directions of development projects' development. In order to improve market positions of out-of-town real estate objects under construction and to transfer their desirable position on the positioning field, the authors elaborate directions of development projects' development. These include the introduction of "green building" and energy-saving technologies, the use of modular construction, BIM technologies and the use of innovative materials. To increase the attractiveness of the objects under construction, development companies are recommended to carry out integrated development of the territories in the construction of cottage settlements. To increase the affordability of built objects, conversion of potential demand into real demand, the authors recommend the active use of mortgage lending system in the construction of residential housing, development and implementation of infill development of individual territories.

The painting technique of Konrad Witz: An example of experimentation with innovative materials in 15th century

Konrad Witz represents an artist of great interest having worked in a period (first half of 15th century) of experimentation of materials, in the field of painting. The four paintings on wooden panels, kept at the Musée d'Art et d'Histoire in Genève (Switzerland), are a clear example of the artist’s will to pay attention to detail, to the brilliance of colours and to shades.A multi-analytical approach was applied in order to obtain information about materials, the technique used by the artist and the state of conservation of the four paintings, with the perspective of a restoration work. This purpose was achieved thanks to the application of non-invasive techniques, i.e. in situ X-ray fluorescence (XRF) through portable instrument, and micro sampling for Scanning Electron Microscopy coupled to microanalysis (SEM-EDS), micro Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) and Gas-Chromatography coupled to Mass Spectrometry (GC–MS) analyses.Results showed the presence of a mixed technique “grease tempera” and the artist’s research in the use of innovative materials and technique for that period, i.e. the presence of small glassy violet particles inside a red lacquer layer, made of silicon, aluminium, potassium, sodium and manganese, as revealed by XRF and SEM-EDS analyses.

Guest Editorial Disruptive Beam-Steering Antenna Technologies for Emerging and Future Satellite Services

The papers in this special section focus on the state-of-the-art of applied and analytical research, including the latest technological advancements and the use of innovative materials and methods to disrupt the way beam-steering antennas are designed and to reveal novel approaches for the design and analysis of antennas for the next generation of satellite communication systems.

Structural performance of plastic block masonry unit

The use of innovative materials with a sustainable application can have important benefits. Plastic bottles are increasingly becoming a menace to the environment due to their improper disposal. In this work, Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) bottles of 500 ml volume were used and filled with different types of soil: Red Coffee Soil (RCS), Murram Soil (MS) and Black Cotton Soil (BCS). The objective of this work was to investigate the structural performance of plastic bottles filled with soil inserted into cement mortar as a walling material. The compressive strength of Inserted Bottle Block (IBB) and Inserted Bottle Wall (IBW) has been tested and results have been discussed. At 28 days, compressive strength test results show that, Inserted Bottle filled with Red Coffee Soil Block (IBB-RCS) and Inserted Bottle filled with Murram Soil Block (IBB-MS) had a compressive strength of 2.7 MPa and 2.8 MPa, respectively. These values were higher than the minimum requirement for masonry units specified by the Kenya standard, which is 2.5 MPa, while the compressive strength of the Inserted Bottle filled with Black Cotton Soil Block (IBB-BCS) was 1.8MPa. A compressive strength test on Inserted Bottle Walls (IBW) shows that Inserted Bottle filled with Murram Soil wall (IBW-MS) has a compressive strength of 1.2 MPa while Inserted Bottle filled with Red Coffee Soil wall (IBW-RCS) and Inserted Bottle filled with Black Cotton Soil wall (IBW-BCS) have a compressive strength of 1.4 MPa and 0.8 MPa respectively. This study revealed that Inserted bottle filled with soil blocks could be used as construction materials.