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Porous titanium addresses the longstanding orthopedic challenges of aseptic loosening and stress shielding. This work expands on the evolution of porous Ti with the manufacturing of hierarchically porous, low stiffness, ductile Ti scaffolds via direct-ink write (DIW) extrusion and sintering of inks containing Ti and NaCl particles. Scaffold macrochannels were filled with a subtherapeutic dose of recombinant bone morphogenetic protein-2 (rhBMP-2) alone or co-delivered within a bioactive supramolecular polymer slurry (SPS) composed of peptide amphiphile nanofibrils and collagen, creating four treatment conditions (Ti struts: microporous vs. fully dense; BMP-2 alone or with SPS). The BMP-2-loaded scaffolds were implanted bilaterally across the L4 and L5 transverse processes in a rat posterolateral lumbar fusion model. In-vivo bone growth in these scaffolds is evaluated with synchrotron X-ray computed microtomography (µCT) to study the effects of strut microporosity and added biological signaling agents on the bone formation response. Optical and scanning electron microscopy confirms the ∼100 µm space-holder micropore size, high-curvature morphology, and pore fenestrations within the struts. Uniaxial compression testing shows that the microporous strut scaffolds have low stiffness and high ductility. A significant promotion in bone formation was observed for groups utilizing the SPS, while no significant differences were found for the scaffolds with the incorporation of micropores. By 2050, the anticipated number of people aged 60 years and older worldwide is anticipated to double to 2.1 billion. This rapid increase in the geriatric population will require a corresponding increase in orthopedic surgeries and more effective materials for longer indwelling times. Titanium alloys have been the gold standard of bone fusion and fixation, but their use has longstanding limitations in bone-implant stiffness mismatch and insufficient osseointegration. We utilize 3D-printing of titanium with NaCl space holders for large- and small-scale porosity and incorporate bioactive supramolecular polymers into the scaffolds to increase bone growth. This work finds no significant change in bone ingrowth via space-holder-induced microporosity but significant increases in bone ingrowth via the bioactive supramolecular polymers in a rat posterolateral fusion model. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to determine the effect of financial performance and inflation rate on stock returns in infrastructure companies listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange. The samples used in this study were 31 companies with a research time of 2018-2022. This study uses secondary data, sampling in this study is purposive sampling, the method of managing or analyzing the data used is classical assumption testing, Ordinary Least Square (OLS) regression analysis and hypothesis testing using the t test and F test, the data processing tool used is Eviews 12. Based on the results of this study, it is known that the variables CR, DER, PER, RE, and Inflation Rate have no effect and are not significant to stock returns. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The influence of Zr and Ti on the inclusions, microstructure, and mechanical properties of three sets of steel prepared using a vacuum induction melting furnace is analyzed. In steel without Zr and Ti, MnS is mainly distributed in the grain boundary with a rod‐like or dendritic morphology, an average diameter of 10 μm, and a quantity of 2.08 × 104 m−3. After alloying with Zr and Ti, MnS in steel is evenly distributed and adopted a blocky or spherical morphology with an average diameter of 7.2 μm and a quantity of 11.01 × 104 m−3. The oxygen content in steel do not have a remarkable impact on the MnS morphology. ZrO2 and Ti2ZrO6 formed in steel display a slight lattice disregistry with MnS. During solidification, MnS precipitates easily as types I and III MnS, with oxides serving as the core. The MnS composite exhibits remarkable deformation resistance during forging. The addition of Zr and Ti increases the proportion of intragranular ferrite in steel and decreases the pearlite lamellae spacing and average grain size, increasing the yield strength from 745 to 820 MPa and the impact energy from 21 to 56 J at room temperature. Overall, the addition of Zr and Ti considerably improves the mechanical properties of steel. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To guarantee the reliability of Tactile Internet (TI) applications such as telesurgery, which demand extremely high reliability and are experiencing rapid expansion, we propose a novel smart resilience mechanism for Next-Generation Ethernet Passive Optical Networks (NG-EPONs). Our architecture integrates Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Software-Defined Networking (SDN)-Enabled Broadband Access (SEBA) platform to proactively enhance network reliability and performance. By harnessing the AI's capabilities, our system automatically detects and localizes fiber faults, establishing backup communication links using Radio Frequency over Glass (RFoG) to prevent service disruptions. This empowers NG-EPONs to maintain uninterrupted, high-quality network service even in the face of unexpected failures, meeting the stringent Quality-of-Service (QoS) requirements of critical TI applications. Our AI model, rigorously validated through 5-fold cross-validation, boasts an average accuracy of 81.49%, with a precision of 84.33%, recall of 78.18%, and F1-score of 81.00%, demonstrating its robust performance in fault detection and prediction. The AI model triggers immediate corrective actions through the SDN controller. Simulation results confirm the efficacy of our proposed mechanism in terms of delay, system throughputs and packet drop rate, and bandwidth waste, ultimately ensuring the delivery of high-quality network services. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Inhalation of nanosized metal oxides may occur at the workplace. Thus, information on potential hazardous effects is needed for risk assessment. We report an investigation of the genotoxic potential of different metal oxide nanomaterials. Acellular and intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) production were determined for all the studied nanomaterials. Moreover, mice were exposed by intratracheal instillation to copper oxide (CuO) at 2, 6, and 12 μg/mouse, tin oxide (SnO2) at 54 and 162 μg/mouse, aluminum oxide (Al2O3) at 18 and 54 μg/mouse, zinc oxide (ZnO) at 0.7 and 2 μg/mouse, titanium dioxide (TiO2) and the benchmark carbon black at 162 μg/mouse. The doses were selected based on pilot studies. Post‐exposure time points were 1 or 28 days. Genotoxicity, assessed as DNA strand breaks by the comet assay, was measured in lung and liver tissue. The acellular and intracellular ROS measurements were fairly consistent. The CuO and the carbon black bench mark particle were potent ROS generators in both assays, followed by TiO2. Al2O3, ZnO, and SnO2 generated low levels of ROS. We detected no increased genotoxicity in this study using occupationally relevant dose levels of metal oxide nanomaterials after pulmonary exposure in mice, except for a slight increase in DNA damage in liver tissue at the highest dose of CuO. The present data add to the body of evidence for risk assessment of these metal oxides. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The efficacy and osseointegration rate of an implant depend on its biocompatibility. Modern implantology seeks fast and reliable osseointegration, which is essential for clinical success. The objective of this research was to assess the osseointegration and biocompatibility of a titanium–titanium diboride composite (Ti‐TiB2) in rabbits in contrast to those of pure titanium (Ti). A total of 64 cylindrical implant specimens were fabricated, consisting of two sets: pure Ti (32 implants) and Ti‐TiB2 composite (32 implants). In this study, two implants were implanted per tibia (left and right tibias) in 16 white male New Zealand rabbits, for a total of four implants per rabbit (4 × 16 = 64 implants). A pushout test was used to assess implant specimen‐bone bonding after 2 and 6 weeks of healing. The experiment utilized five rabbits per healing phase, which means that 20 implants per time point were used for the pushout tests. (10 for pure Ti and 10 for the composite). Histology was used to examine the tissue response to biocompatibility, and histomorphometry was used to measure new bone growth at the two time points. With three rabbits per time point, 12 implants were employed for the histological analyses. After implantation, the pushout shear strength results revealed that the mean shear strength of the Ti‐TiB2 implant specimens (5.4 ± 0.029 MPa for 2 weeks, 7.9 ± 0.029 MPa for 6 weeks) was statistically greater (p < 0.0001) than that of the pure Ti implant specimens (5.1 ± 0.015 MPa for 2 weeks, 6.6 ± 0.047 MPa for 6 weeks). After 2 weeks, woven bone tissues were observed around the pure titanium implants, and active osteoid tissue around the composite implants exhibited significant differences in new bone formation areas (NBFAs) (0.54 ± 0.004 mm2 for Ti and 0.65 ± 0.003 mm2 for the composite). After 6 weeks, there was new bone formation with osteocytes around the pure titanium implants (NBFA of 2.44 mm2) and osteoid maturation with the observation of reversal lines around the composite implants (NBFA of 2.89 mm2). The developed Ti‐TiB2 material was biocompatible and demonstrated superior bone growth compared to that of the pure Ti materials after 2 and 6 weeks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Titanium-magnesium (Ti–Mg) alloy is a widely accepted bimetallic material suitable for biomedical applications. However, reduced wear and corrosion resistance, low strength and hardness, and stress shielding effect limit their widespread applications. Reinforcing multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) possessing low density, high modulus, and improved mechanical properties overcome the shortcomings of Ti–Mg alloy. In the present work, nanostructured Ti–Mg alloy was synthesized at room temperature and simultaneously reinforced with MWCNTs. The high energetic ball milling process (HEBM) has been successfully utilized to mechanically alloy Ti with Mg at room temperature by decreasing the grain size to the nanoscale and reinforcing the alloy with MWCNTs. The synthesized nanostructured powder size was 25 nm. Characterization results have shown the emergence of new phases like Ti4C4 and Mg2C3 as a result of mechanical alloying (MA). The reinforced alloy powder was consolidated by cold compaction and followed by microwave sintering. The consolidated sample crystallite size attained was 72 nm and then characterized by Nanoindentation, XRD, and SEM. XRD results show intermetallic compounds Mg2C3 and TiC in bulk samples. SADP TEM confirmed the retention of Nano and partial amorphous structures in the consolidated samples. The nanoindentation test revealed the hardness and elastic modulus values 0.93 GPa and 28.12 GPa, respectively, equivalent to CpTi and its associated alloys. The results are prevalent in those alloys used in biomedical applications produced by conventional melting and casting techniques and can be a potential biomaterial.

Copyright of Foundry Technology (1000-8365) is the property of Foundry Technology Editorial Office and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Micronanoelectronic Technology is the property of Micronanoelectronic Technology Editorial Office and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

In this review, composite studies using titanium and graphene additions to alumina as matrix materials are summarized. In the light of studies conducted in recent years, the importance of graphene reinforcement and the effects of titanium reinforcement on the properties of ceramic matrix composites have been stated. Alumina matrix composites, which are the most widely used ceramic matrix composites, have been used in the industry from past to present due to their properties such as low density, high hardness and chemical stability. However, the low fracture toughness of alumina (3.5 MPa. m1/2) limits its usage area, therefore, the existing mechanical properties are improved with second phase additions, and higher hardness and fracture toughness are obtained with the reinforcements. Although it has been stated in the reviewed studies that titanium reinforcement into alumina matrix generally results in lower hardness, fracture toughness and bending strength compared to monolithic alumina and that titanium reinforcement is an important step in improving the properties of alumina with low fracture toughness, some studies have shown that titanium addition has increased fracture toughness (4,32 MPa.m1/2) and has been reported to increase bending strength. Studies have shown that a second reinforcement material is added to the Al2O3-Ti composite in order to improve the mechanical properties obtained by reinforcing titanium into alumina matrix. It has been observed that literature studies on the addition of graphene to the Al2O3-Ti structure are limited. In a limited study, results were obtained that graphene reinforcement reduced porosity and increased conductivity, wear resistance, hardness and fracture toughness (8.7 MPa.m1/2) compared to monolithic alumina and other reinforcements. These data show that the use of graphene supplements will continue to increase. In this review, the addition of titanium and graphene powders to the alumina matrix, production methods by powder metallurgy method, and the effects of the reinforcements on microstructure and mechanical properties were examined. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The content of Ti in carbonate rocks is generally lower than 3.5mg/g, and most of it is below 1mg/g. X-ray fluorescence spectrometry (XRF), which is commonly used to measure Ti content in silicic rocks (usually more than 0.1%), cannot meet the requirements of accurate measurement of trace Ti in carbonate rocks. This paper reports on the attempts to test Ti in carbonate rock by inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (ICP-MS), discusses and analyzes the interference of 5 test isotopes of Ti (46Ti, 47Ti, 48Ti, 49Ti, 50Ti) in carbonate solution matrix, and determines the suitable test isotope 48Ti. Then the ICP-MS method for the determination of trace Ti in carbonate rock is proposed. According to the method, the concentration of Ti in 5 first-class national standard materials was tested and corrected. The measured values were consistent with the certified values, and the relative standard deviation (RSD, n=10) was less than 7.3%. The concentration of Ti in the unknown carbonate sample solution was measured and corrected under the same experimental conditions, and this method was compared with the national standard method of diantipyrine methane spectrophotometry and inductively coupled plasma-optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES) method, and the relative standard deviation with these two methods were less than the allowable limit. The recoveries were 83%−107%. This method is suitable for the determination of carbonate samples with 31%−56% CaO and 14−3346μg/g Ti, and provides a reference for the determination of trace Ti in carbonate rocks with high calcium and magnesium [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of GeSec: Revista de Gestao e Secretariado is the property of Sindicato das Secretarias e Secretarios do Estado de Sao Paulo (SINSESP) and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

This work investigates the microstructure and manufacturing control of the masked Cold Spray Additive Manufacturing (CSAM) strategy for producing of new bipolar plates (BPPs) for Proton Exchange Membrane (PEM) electrolyzers, using low-cost, lightweight, and machinable materials. CSAM is a solid-state process capable of fabricating 3D patterned parts based on a bottom-up approach using masks with a desired pattern. This study focuses on the dimensional and microstructural characteristics of pin fins fabricated with spherical (Ti-S) and irregular (Ti-I) Ti powders using the masked CSAM technology. Additionally, the performance of both Ti parts for its application in PEM electrolyzers was evaluated in terms of corrosion resistance and interfacial contact resistance (ICR). The results demonstrated that the masked CSAM technology allowed precise control and customization of the dimensions of the 3D-printed pin fins, obtaining porosity values of 6 ± 1 % for Ti-S and 4 ± 1 % for Ti-I. The evaluation of the corrosion resistance of the CSAM Ti patterned parts showed that for both Ti-S and Ti-I powders a stable oxide film at the typical operation potential (1.8 V vs Ag/AgCl) of a PEM water electrolyzer was formed without signs of pitting corrosion. Finally, at a compaction pressure of 150 N/cm2 ICR values of 42 ± 19, 40 ± 13, and 24 ± 7 mΩ·cm2 were obtained for Ti-I, Ti-S, and standard Ti Bulk, respectively. The results suggest than the masked CSAM technology shows great potential for the fabrication of Ti BPPs.

Integration of aluminum (Al) and titanium (Ti) alloys offers an effective approach to sustainable and high-quality development of the automotive and aviation industries. However, challenges arise when welding Al alloys to Ti alloys due to the formation of detrimental intermetallic compounds at the interface. With the implementation of ultrasonic vibrations, the temperature and strain rate were both increased during Al/Ti friction stir welding (FSW), leading to the formation of an amorphous interlayer, instead of intermetallic compound (IMC), at the interface. The interfacial microcracks were eliminated in the ultrasonic vibrations assisted friction stir welding (UVFSW). There were Ti particles separated from the Ti substrate and dispersed in the Al alloy, thereby resulting in a more gradual and moderate evolution of the interfacial microstructure. Due to the improved interfacial microstructure with ultrasonic vibrations, the lap shear strength was almost twice that of the conventional FSW welds within same welding conditions. Meanwhile, ultrasonic vibrations also improved the fabrication efficiency with a higher optimal traversing speed. The failure mode shifted from interface separation of FSW welds to a shear dimple fracture of the UVFSW welds, demonstrating the better plasticity and reliability of the UVFSW Al/Ti dissimilar joints.

The bond strength between Cu substrate and epoxy resin is required to be improved in power modules. Surface modification of the Cu substrate improves the bond strength due to the anchor effect. In this study, we propose a new surface modification method using friction stirring. A convex structure was formed on a Cu substrate by friction stirring using a tool wrapped with Ti foil. The microstructure of the modified surface and adhesion with epoxy resin were evaluated. Friction stirring formed a Ti-derived convex structure on the Cu substrate, and Cu and Ti were mixed at the microscale and bonded strongly. The shear bond strength between the modified surface and epoxy resin was 7.9 ± 1.7 MPa, which was twice as strong as that without surface treatment. The Ti-derived convex structure formed on the Cu substrate improved adhesion with epoxy resin.

The article discusses a case of allergic contact dermatitis in a healthy female in her 30s who developed eczema on her face and neck after a surgical brow lift with titanium screws. Despite trying various treatments, the eczema persisted until the titanium screws were removed, resulting in complete resolution of symptoms. This case highlights the importance of considering allergic reactions to titanium in aesthetic procedures and the need for comprehensive exposure assessment in patients with similar symptoms. [Extracted from the article]

Tantalum (Ta) has excellent mechanical properties, biocompatibility, and corrosion resistance. However, its application is limited by its high cost. Tantalum pentoxide (Ta2O5), a stable oxide of Ta, is a key role of Ta surface with excellent biological properties and corrosion resistance and has the advantage of a lower cost. In this study, Ta and Ta2O5 powders were pre-placed on titanium (Ti) substrates and irradiated by a diode laser to form single-layer single-pass coatings. The scanning process was performed using a range of laser powers (1000, 1500, and 2000 W) and scanning speeds (3–5, 4.5–7.5, and 6–10 mm/s). The Ta coatings showed no surface cracking. However, spherical pores were observed near the fusion line of the coating with the substrate in some samples. The porosity increased with a decreasing laser power and scanning speed. The formation of these pores was attributed mainly to the evaporation of the Ti substrate during the cladding process and the subsequent entrapment of the vapor bubbles within the coating. The Ta2O5 coatings showed almost no pores but exhibited a small number of transverse cracks on the coating surface because of the thermal expansion coefficient mismatch between the ceramic coating and the metallic substrate. For all of the coatings, the coating hardness was significantly higher than that of the substrate. The Ta2O5 coatings (580–700 HV) showed a higher hardness than the Ta coatings (350–400 HV). Moreover, the coating hardness remained approximately constant throughout the coating depth, whereas that of the Ta coatings decreased significantly with an increasing distance from the coating surface. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to the unique properties of titanium (Ti) and its alloys, it has a particularly wide range of applications in aerospace, automotive, medical and other fields. However, the problems of low surface hardness, high friction coefficient and low wear resistance of Ti alloys limit its development to a certain extent. The destruction of Ti and its alloys often occurs on the surface of materials such as wear damage, corrosion, and oxidation resistance. Therefore, the exploration and application of surface strengthening technology is particularly important. The cathodic plasma electrolytic deposition (CPED) technology, as a surface modification technology, can achieve better adhesion and facilitate the material to achieve better comprehensive performance. This paper briefly introduces the basic concepts, principles and development progress of CPED. Starting from the preparation of ceramic coatings, metal coatings, diamond-like carbon films and composite coatings, it summarizes the application of CPED in Ti and its alloys. Applications in alloys to improve thermal oxidation resistance, wear resistance, corrosion resistance, and film-based adhesion. At the end, its development in the new era environment is prospected. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Trauma-informed design and technology have been an important topic of discussion in the last 5 years in user experience. However, little exists to offer practical direction for practitioners applying trauma-informed approaches to websites, apps, and other digital tools. This paper shares an example of applying trauma-informed (TI) principles to a social service agency website in the United States using wellknown usability heuristics, which are principles used in interaction design to ensure usability. There appears to be a significant overlap between usability heuristics and TI principles; practitioners can use usability heuristics as a familiar foundation to make any design more traumainformed. This paper describes specific ways TI principles can be operationalized using usability heuristics to develop more user-friendly and trauma-informed websites. A case study in design shows how user experience professionals can be more trauma-informed in their work to better serve the general public or users who have experienced trauma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The anti-corrosion performance and biocompatibility of developed bioactive polypyrrole (PPy)-coated titanium (Ti) have been studied in the present work. Coating of PPy on Ti was performed by the electropolymerization technique using various concentrations of pyrrole in an aqueous solution. 13C solid NMR, ATR-FTIR and Raman spectroscopy analysis confirmed the presence of PPy over Ti metal. The morphology of PPy-coated substrates revealed a cauliflower-like structure with a high roughness value. Wettability studies showed the hydrophilic property of the PPy-coated Ti metal compared to uncoated Ti. The increased polarization resistance (Rp) and reduced corrosion current density (icorr) results exhibit improved protection ability for the PPy-coated Ti. Bode impedance and phase angle values were high for the PPy-coated substrate compared to uncoated Ti. Apatite formation on the coated substrate was higher after 7 days of immersion in simulated body fluid (SBF) solution. Cell culture studies result revealed that PPy-coated surface enhances the adhesion of MG-63 cells on titanium surface and also improve the bone-forming ability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article examines the diagnosis of the Agricultural Innovation System (SIA) in the department of Tolima, Colombia, as part of a project led by the Colombian Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development and the Technological University of Pereira (TUP), which also evaluated the National Agricultural Innovation System (NAIS) in regions such as Chocó, Bolívar, and Meta. A methodology was used that involved a survey with 58 questions on a Likert scale with 300 participants, evaluated with congruence and relevance indexes, identifying key variables in the operation of the Agricultural Innovation System (AIS). A survey was applied to map actors in the National Innovation System for Higher Education in Agriculture, as well as the participating actors in the regional agricultural innovation systems of Tolima to identify gaps in extension, innovation, development, sustainability, information technology (TI), education, and training. Among the conclusions, it stands out that the associativity subsystem presents the lowest performance and is close to a score of two on the scale of gaps. An evaluation was carried out among the five subsystems, including extension, TI, environmental aspects, and public policy. The department of Tolima shows low performance in innovation and TI, while their extension performance is less weak. In Chaparral, there is a general lag, with innovation being the worst evaluated subsystem. Rovira obtains high scores in most subsystems, although innovation and TI have lower scores. At the national and regional levels, innovation is low, and communication among the NARS actors is insufficient, which highlights the need to promote good practices, strategies, and projects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study objects to synthesize of PVP/SiC/Ti nanostructures as a future and promising nanomaterials for nanoelectronics, energy storage and optical approaches. The morphological and optical properties of PVP/SiC/Ti nanostructures were examined. Results of optical characteristics demonstrated the PVP/SiC/Ti nanostructures have stable absorbance(A) at UV and NIR spectra where the absorbance increased about 65.7% at λ = 400 nm and 65.3% at λ = 760 nm while transmission decreased when the concentration of PVP/SiC/Ti nanostructures increased of 37.5 gm/L, these results can be useful in solar energy fields, optical devices, anti-reflectance coating material, and other modern fields. When the concentration reached of 37.5 gm/L, energy band gap decreased from 3.25 to 2.25 eV, this behaviour makes the PVP/SiC/Ti nanostructures are suitable in numerous optoelectronics fields. The other optical factors of PVP/SiC/Ti nanostructures improved with rising concentration. The thermal energy storage results illustrated to obtain on gain of melting time reached 60%, this result makes the PVP–SiC–Ti–H2O nanofluids are multifunctional for renewable energy applications. Finally, the achieved results indicated to the PVP/SiC/Ti nanostructures are potential and promising to utilize in solar energy and optoelectronics approaches with excellent optical factors compared of other nanomaterials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We present our findings on organic field-effect transistors (OFETs) that utilize the conjugated copolymer poly[4-(4,4-dihexadecyl-4H-cyclopenta[1,2-b:5,4-b′]-dithiophen-2-yl)alt[1,2,5]thiadiazolo[3,4-c]pyridine] as the active material, with electrodes composed of arrays of carbon nanotubes (CNTs). We employed three types of source and drain electrodes: gold, titanium, and CNT array electrodes with titanium contact pads. A comparison of characteristics of OFETs using these three different electrodes revealed the effectiveness of CNTs in enhancing charge carrier injection for OFETs. The OFETs based on CNT electrodes showed a twofold increase in the drain current and a threefold increase in charge carrier mobility compared to those with gold electrodes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Periprosthetic osteolysis (PPO) caused by wear particles is one of the leading causes of implant failure after arthroplasty. Macrophage polarization imbalance and subsequent osteogenic inhibition play a crucial role in PPO. Calycosin (CA) is a compound with anti‐inflammatory and osteoprotective properties. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of CA on titanium (Ti) particle‐induced osteolysis, Ti particle‐induced macrophage polarization and subsequent osteogenic deficits, and explore the associated signalling pathways in a Ti particle‐stimulated calvarial osteolysis mouse model using micro‐CT, ELISA, qRT‐PCR, immunofluorescence and western blot techniques. The results showed that CA alleviated inflammation, osteogenic inhibition and osteolysis in the Ti particle‐induced calvarial osteolysis mouse model in vivo. In vitro experiments showed that CA suppressed Ti‐induced M1 macrophage polarization, promoted M2 macrophage polarization and ultimately enhanced osteogenic differentiation of MC3T3‐E1 cells. In addition, CA alleviated osteogenic deficits by regulating macrophage polarization homeostasis via the NF‐κB signalling pathway both in vivo and in vitro. All these findings suggest that CA may prove to be an effective therapeutic agent for wear particle‐induced osteolysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Titanium (Ti) materials are highly valued in the medical field for their outstanding biocompatibility and corrosion resistance. However, challenges such as suboptimal wettability and wear resistance can impact the tribological properties of titanium implants, potentially leading to implant failure. This study explores the application of ultrafast pulsed laser processing to create two distinct structures, circular pits and grooves, on the surface of titanium materials. The samples underwent low-surface-energy treatment, after which the wettability and wear resistance of the textured surfaces were evaluated. The findings indicate that the textured surfaces exhibit improved hydrophobic properties and reduced surface wear. Specifically, the textured surfaces demonstrated a remarkable 73.68% reduction in wear compared to the untextured surfaces. These results underscore the potential of etching textured structures onto titanium surfaces to enhance their wear resistance, thereby offering promising implications for the improvement of titanium implant performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the microstructural evolution and mechanical properties of a series of FeCrNiCuTix (x = 0, 0.2, 0.4, 0.6, 0.8, and 1, in mole ratio) high entropy alloys (HEAs) were analyzed in detail to study the influence of Ti content on the HEAs. The microstructures of the alloys transformed from single-phase face-centered cubic (FCC) phase structure to FCC and body-centered cubic (BCC) diphase, finally to FCC, BCC and intermetallic compound (Fe2Ti) phase with the increase of Ti content. The addition of Ti element significantly refined the grain of the alloys. The hardness, strength and tribology tests of the alloys were also carried out. The results indicated that the Vickers hardness, yield strength, and fracture strength increased first and then decreased, the average friction coefficient variation law was just the opposite, and the plastic strain reduced monotonically, with the increase of x values for the alloys. At x = 0.4, the maximum yield strength and fracture strength of the alloy were 1646.89 MPa and 1947.09 MPa, respectively, and the average friction coefficient was a minimum of 0.47, with a hardness value of HV 489.68 and a plastic strain of 13.98%. The maximum hardness value of the alloy was HV 656.19 at x = 0.8. The fracture mechanism of the alloys was from ductile fracture to brittle fracture and the wear mechanism was form of abrasive wear. Accordingly, the FeCrNiCuTi0.4 alloy obtained the optimal mechanical properties overall. This research is of great significance for the development of engineering and structural materials with excellent mechanical properties.

Karst areas are widespread in China and can be divided into southern karst and northern karst based on the geographical boundary of Qinling Mountains and Huaihe River. In northern karst regions, karst springs are the predominant landform. Previous studies on karst springs have predominantly focused on macroscopic perspectives, such as water chemistry characteristics, with less attention given to the microscopic characteristics of springs. Therefore, this study focused on the Jinan Baotu Spring area, representative of a typical northern karst region, and investigated the natural nanoparticles present in different aquifers at various depths from a microscopic point of view. Through the observation of nanoparticle tracking analyzer (NTA), numerous nanoparticles were identified in the groundwater samples. The particle size range of the particles contained in groundwater is mainly concentrated in the range of 150–500 nm, and the particle concentration is mainly concentrated in the range of 1.5–5.0 × 105 Particles/L. The microstructure, chemical composition, and element distribution of these nanoparticles were analyzed using TEM-EDS techniques. The results unveiled the presence of Ti-bearing nanoparticles in various groundwater layers, including both crystalline and amorphous states, as well as nanoparticles exhibiting the coexistence of crystal and amorphous structures. By comparing the measured lattice spacing with PDF cards, the crystalline Ti-bearing nanoparticles were identified as rutile, brookite, anatase, ilmenite, pseudorutile, and ulvospinel. Furthermore, the main components of the amorphous Ti-bearing nanoparticles predominantly consisted of Ti or a mixture of Ti and Fe. EDS analysis further indicated that the Ti-bearing nanoparticles carried additional metal elements, such as Zn, Ca, Mn, Mo, Cr, and Ni, suggesting their potential role as carriers of metal elements during groundwater transportation. This discovery provided new insights into the migration of metal elements in groundwater and underscores the capacity of nanoparticles to enhance the mobility of inorganic substances within the water environment. Notably, brookite was detected in three different areas, including the direct discharge area, indirect recharge area, and discharge area, which may indicate that some special natural nanoparticles could serve as natural mineral tracer particles in the process of groundwater migration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper describes the compounds of refractory metal foils (Ti, Hf, Ta, and Ni) with ceramic layers formed as a result of combustion of reaction tapes rolled from Ti + 0.65C, Ti + 1.7B, and 5Ti + 3Si powder mixtures. Scanning electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction analysis are applied to study the microstructure, elemental composition, and phase composition of multilayer composites obtained by self-propagating high-temperature synthesis. The effect of synthesis conditions (initial temperature and applied pressure) and the initial structure of the samples on various parameters (combustion wave front propagation velocity, microstructure, phase composition, and strength properties) of the resulting layered materials is revealed. It is shown that compounds of metal foils and reaction tapes rolled from powder mixtures during combustion are ensured due to reaction diffusion, mutual impregnation, and chemical reactions occurring in the reaction tapes and on the surface of metal foils. The strength properties of the resulting materials (up to 275 MPa at 25°C and up to 72 MPa at 1100°C) are determined using a three-point loading scheme. The results of this study can contribute to the development of structural materials operating under extreme conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this research, an in situ Al-Ti composite was fabricated by a combination of accumulative roll bonding (ARB) and friction stir processing (FSP). Following 3 cycles of ARB, FSP was performed for 5 passes with 16 mm min−1-line speed and 1600 rpm rotary speed. The structure and properties of the composite were investigated using an optical microscope (OM), scanning electron microscope (SEM), x-ray diffraction (XRD), hardness test, tensile strength, and abrasion test. It was found that with an increase in the number of ARB cycles, Ti layers were broken into smaller particles. Annealing after ARB caused the formation of initial Ti-Al intermetallic particles. Moreover, performing FSP on these samples led to the formation of a nanostructure containing Ti and Ti-Al intermetallic compounds in the Al matrix. XRD results showed that the titanium aluminides produced during FSP were TiAl3. XRD patterns also showed some unreacted primary Ti particles in the composites. The hardness of the ARB sample reduced remarkably after annealing at 600 °C for 180 min. The structure of the composite was refined, and its hardness increased after the FSP process. The maximum hardness was 81.4 BHN which was obtained after 3 passes of FSP. The tensile and yield strength of Al-Ti-AlTi3 composites increased from 89 to 140 MPa compared to annealed Al. Abrasion tests showed that the wear mechanism of ARB and FSP samples was a combination of adhesive and abrasive mechanisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A variety of methodologies have been applied for characterizing covalent immobilizations of biomolecules and other compounds on metal implant surfaces, due to the positive impact of functionalization and the enhancement of biomimetic signaling at covalently immobilized biomaterial surfaces. However, current challenges should be addressed, as both physically adsorbed and covalently immobilized molecules usually coexist on functionalized surfaces and covalent immobilization efficiencies greatly vary among works, in which the immobilized biomolecule size seems a determinant parameter of the efficiency.Discrimination of the irreversible-bound covalent fraction should be assessed and advanced techniques for surface characterization must be conducted, such as quartz crystal microbalance or photon induced spectroscopy, as evaluation criteria. Verification of biomolecule activity once it is covalently immobilized on metal substrates is also required. Long-term stability and degradation resistances studies are also highly recommended for obtention of long-lasting, biomimetic-active surfaces upon covalent functionalization of metal biomaterials for medical applications.

Photo-transferred thermoluminescence (PTTL) is defined as the transfer of electrons from deep traps into shallow traps via optical stimulation. The importance of PTTL is that it allows for a second measurement of dose assessments for accuracy in cases such as an erroneous dose evaluation. In this study, the PTTL signal of TLD-100 was investigated in detail for a wide dose range from mGy to Gy. The investigation of PTTL signals in the order of Gy is the main innovation of this study. Based on the results of the low dose measurement (mGy), the PTTL dose-response curve has a significant sublinear characteristic in the order of mGy for the total area condition. Additionally, PTTL signals could not be distinguished from the background signal up to 5mGy. Therefore, the PTTL method can be used by taking into account the sublinear function obtained after 5mGy for the total area. On the other hand, it can be applied to TLD-100 between 0.5mGy and 50mGy using ROI. Based on the high dose measurement results (Gy), the PTTL method can be applied up to 10Gy regardless of the total area and ROI. Therefore, the dose reassessment can be performed with PTTL signal in high dose measurements (Gy) such as in the radiotherapy field. Furthermore, in future studies, heating the dosimeters during UV exposure, predose effect, or subjecting the dosimeters to fast cooling following the annealing process may provide important outputs to obtaining higher PTTL intensity, thus, it may allow measuring lower radiation doses.

To guarantee the reliability of Tactile Internet (TI) applications such as telesurgery, which demand extremely high reliability and are experiencing rapid expansion, we propose a novel smart resilience mechanism for Next-Generation Ethernet Passive Optical Networks (NG-EPONs). Our architecture integrates Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Software-Defined Networking (SDN)-Enabled Broadband Access (SEBA) platform to proactively enhance network reliability and performance. By harnessing the AI’s capabilities, our system automatically detects and localizes fiber faults, establishing backup communication links using Radio Frequency over Glass (RFoG) to prevent service disruptions. This empowers NG-EPONs to maintain uninterrupted, high-quality network service even in the face of unexpected failures, meeting the stringent Quality-of-Service (QoS) requirements of critical TI applications. Our AI model, rigorously validated through 5-fold cross-validation, boasts an average accuracy of 81.49%, with a precision of 84.33%, recall of 78.18%, and F1-score of 81.00%, demonstrating its robust performance in fault detection and prediction. The AI model triggers immediate corrective actions through the SDN controller. Simulation results confirm the efficacy of our proposed mechanism in terms of delay, system throughputs and packet drop rate, and bandwidth waste, ultimately ensuring the delivery of high-quality network services.

Este estudio tiene como objetivo identificar las competencias de comportamiento relevantes para los profesionales de las tecnologías de la información (TI) y determinar si existe una brecha entre las competencias desarrolladas por la academia y las requeridas por el mercado laboral en Costa Rica. Para ello, se llevó a cabo un análisis que involucró a cuatro grupos de interés: la literatura, las bolsas de empleo, los perfiles de egreso de las carreras de TI en universidades públicas, así como a los directores y coordinadores académicos de dichas universidades. Durante este análisis, se identificaron 45 competencias de comportamiento, de las cuales solo tres coincidieron en su categorización como de alto o moderado grado de importancia. Cabe destacar que no se encontró un conjunto homogéneo de competencias para todos los grupos investigados.

Recent design and development of precipitate reinforced refractory metal alloys demonstrate the possibility of A2 + B2 bcc superalloys as a new class of high temperature materials. Existing β-Ti alloys do not typically employ reinforcement with intermetallics, as in other high temperature alloys; to this effect sufficient additions of Fe, a low cost β-Ti stabiliser, can promote formation of an ordered-bcc intermetallic phase, β′-TiFe (B2), offering scope to develop a β + β′ dual-phase field. However, key uncertainties exist in the base Ti-Fe binary. The current research evaluates the formation of ordered-bcc TiFe precipitates within a disordered-bcc β-Ti matrix through variable heat treatment strategies. The microstructure optimisation has revealed new insight into the Ti-Fe phase equilibria at near eutectoid temperatures in the purported dual-phase field, where a complex interplay between β-Ti, β′-TiFe and α-Ti exists. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hard x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy using monochromatic Cr Kα radiation (5414.8 eV) has been used to acquire XPS and Auger data on pure titanium and titanium dioxide samples. Survey data, extended range high-resolution scans of all observed photoelectron peaks, and high-resolution scans of Auger lines are presented herein. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Proposed Ti15.4Zr30.2Mn(54.4−x−y)VxNiyCry alloy compositions are characterized by improved characteristics, in particular hydrogen saturation at room temperature and relatively low pressure, which makes them promising for using in hydrogen energy. It established that only part of the nickel introduced into the alloy dissolves in the Laves phase (type C14) and as a result, its phase composition and microstructure change. It was determined that the change in the phase composition of the alloy does not affect the kinetics of the hydrogen absorption process, but leads to a change hydrogen capacity and increase in the temperature at which all hydrogen release. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Barium titanate (BTO) is a widely researched ferroelectric useful for energy storage. While BTO's surface chemistry is commonly studied using density functional theory, little has been published on the TiO2 surface. Here, we determined that BTO's surface response can be decoupled from the ferroelectric response by using a pre-optimized ferroelectric slab and allowing only the top three atomic z-layers to respond to ligand binding. Multiple favorable binding modes were identified for hydrogen, hydroxyl, water, and tert-butyl phosphonic acid on BTO's TiO2 surface. Of these ligands, tBuPA dominates surface binding with binding energies as low as − 2.61 eV for its nine configurations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study achieves an increase in Pd concentration on the surface of Ti-Pd alloys using hydrogen peroxide as a green dealloying method, as well as determining the effect of Pd on the hydrogenation of the Ti-Pd alloys. Spontaneous oxidation of Ti in Ti-Pd alloys has been reported to precipitate low-valent Pd on the surface, which can be used for fast Î'-TiH2 formation and as a catalyst for various organic reactions. On the other hand, spontaneous oxidation has limited potential to increase the surface Pd concentration. As most of the Pd remains in the metallic phase, there is a need to increase the utilization of the remaining Pd. H2O2 is known to be a green oxidant and also forms complexes with Ti, therefore surface Pd enrichment by dealloying is expected. This study was carried out to investigate the relationship between hydrogenation and surface properties of Ti-Pd alloys by H2O2 immersion. The increase in the thickness of Ti oxide layers and the increase in Pd concentration on Ti-Pd alloys were found by H2O2 immersion. Model experiments on chip-like specimens showed that the Ti oxide layer retards hydrogen diffusion, while the Pd on the surface has the effect of increasing the hydrogen supply to the metallic phase. Pd on the surface was also found to have an effect on the fast decomposition of H2O2. These results indicate that H2O2 immersion is effective as a surface treatment to increase the Pd concentration on the surface with reduced Ti dissolution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The RuO 2 catalytic film electrode with long-term durability is becoming increasingly urgent and challenging for catalysis oxygen evolution reaction (OER). Herein, the Ti-oxides (H x Ti 2+2x O δ /Ti, HTi/Ti) with ordered porous morphology is derived directly from metallic Ti by using a combination method of hydrothermal and ion exchange, and served as a substrate to support RuO 2 catalytic film. The porous HTi plays a wedge-like effect, which significantly improve the adhesion of RuO 2 catalytic layer and reducing surface cracks. Moreover, the advanced surface characterization techniques evidence a strong catalyst-support interaction between HTi and RuO 2 , furtherly enhances the binding strength and modifies the orbital structure of Ru-sites. Electrochemical measurements revealed that the prepared RuO 2 /HTi/Ti possess a low overpotential of 220 mV and 265 mV to afford the current density of 10 mA cm−2 and 50 mA cm−2, respectively, and exhibits a high mass activity of 1760 ± 60 mA g Ru −1 at overpotential of 290 mV. Accelerated life test confirmed the robust durability of RuO 2 /HTi/Ti, which can run stably for up to 11 h at 500 mA cm−2 current density with a low mass loading of 0.1 mg cm−2. The remarkable OER performance is closely associated with the ordered porous HTi and interfacial interactions, which demonstrate the surface engineering to create ordered derivative layers directly from the substrate is important to improve the activity and stability of catalytic film electrode. • H x Ti 2+2x O δ /Ti with ordered porous is derived directly from Ti. • The surface of RuO 2 /HTi/Ti has less cracks. • A strong catalyst-support interaction presented between HTi and RuO 2. • The RuO 2 /HTi/Ti exhibits a high mass activity of 1760 ± 60 mA g Ru −1, which is 7.5 times than that RuO 2 nanoparticles. • It can run stably for up to 11 h at 500 mA cm−2 with a low mass loading of 0.1 mg cm−2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microprobe study of the effects of secondary fluorescence from high-titanium glass (TiO2 ≈ 16 wt %) on the apparent titanium content in the adjacent Ti-free zircon was conducted. It was demonstrated that small crystals (<10 µm) are not suitable for analysis. In the margins of large zircon crystals (20–30 µm), the error in Ti estimation may reach 10–23%. However, in the cores of large crystals (>30 µm), the microprobe analysis gives practically undistorted titanium contents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Highlights: Further performance improvements of sodium-ion batteries require better-performing electrode materials, particularly anodes. The layered lepidocrocite-type sodium titanate (Na0.74Ti1.815□0.185O4·1.27H2O), showing a high Na+ storage capacity of 229 mAh g−1 at relatively low average voltage of ca. 0.6 V vs. Na+/Na, is a promising candidate anode material. Abstract: A lepidocrocite-structured sodium titanate prepared by ion-exchange of a Cs-containing precursor shows promise as an anode material for sodium ion batteries, with a discharge capacity of up to 229 mAh g−1 at an average potential of about 0.6 V vs. Na+/Na. Titanium vacancies in the metal oxide layers provide additional sites for sodium intercalation in addition to interlayer sites, which accounts for the higher capacity compared to other previously reported lepidocrocite-structured titanates. By screening a series of electrolyte formulations and binders, we were able to improve the first-cycle coulombic efficiency to 81.8% and 94.7% respectively using CMC/SBR-based and binder-free electrodes in ether electrolytes. The electrochemical consequences of short-term air-exposure on the electrodes are also discussed. Graphic abstract: [Figure not available: see fulltext.]