On the mechanical properties of N-functionalised dipeptide gels

The properties of a hydrogel are controlled by the underlying network that immobilizes the solvent. For gels formed by the self-assembly of a small molecule, it is common to show the primary fibres that entangle to form the network by microscopy, but it is difficult to access information about the network. One approach to understand the network is to examine the effect of the concentration on the rheological properties, such that G cx, where G is the storage modulus and c is the concentration. A number of reports link the exponent x to a specific type of network. Here, we discuss a small library of gels formed using functionalized dipeptides, and describe the underlying networks of these gels, using microscopy, small angle scattering and rheology. We show that apparently different networks can give very similar values of x

Correlates of Post-traumatic Growth Following a Myocardial Infarction: A Systematic Review

Correlates of post-traumatic growth (PTG) have been examined in the area of health psychology previously, with much focus on aspects of personality, coping, and social support. This systematic review aimed to examine correlates of PTG for those who have experienced a myocardial infarction (MI). Studies which met inclusion criteria were assessed for quality and reviewed. Results showed an inconsistent strength of associations between studies and so conclusions cannot be drawn. Possible reasons for these differences are discussed and recommendations for future research are suggested

Problem-based Learning in Institutional and Curricular Design at the New Model Institute for Technology and Engineering (NMITE)

NMITE’s Master’s in Integrated Engineering (MEng) was created with a unique philosophy of integrating not only traditionally separate strands of engineering, but also of integrating engineering with other disciplines such as arts, humanities, and business. This broad and deep integration is made possible by adopting the principles and practices of problem-based learning (PBL) and embedding them within predetermined module challenges. In this way, each PBL challenge highlights and hones areas of engineering expertise and embeds liberal subjects whilst maintaining the integration intrinsic to the programme. Overall, this method supports the use of block learning with deep integration of employers and the community in the educational experience

Social justice in undergraduate medical education: a meta-synthesis of learners’ perspectives

Introduction: The COVID-19 pandemic has illuminated disparities and inequities in healthcare globally, making it a necessity to identify, and address social and structural determinants of people’s everyday lives. Medical schools and education need to respond to and address social justice in undergraduate education. Social justice in medical education has the potential to be a foundational block to support the initiatives that have or are being implemented in our health systems. Methods: We carried out a meta-synthesis and used an interpretative approach for the analysis. Searches were conducted of three databases: PsycINFO, Embase and Medline and were carried out in May 2021. We excluded articles that were not related to undergraduate medical students. The aim of this review was to explore literature on SJ teaching to elicit the experiences of learners to inform future SJ teaching and curriculum. Results: Using meta-synthesis methodology, four themes emerged: personal growth of learners and professional identities; developing commitment to working with marginalised populations in their environments; integrating traditional clinical skills with advocacy, interests in human rights and SJ work; learning processes and methods. Conclusions: Findings confirm that SJ in undergraduate medical education has an essential role. However, social justice in medical education was understood as a non-essential piece of professionalism, or as something to be learnt in the abstract method rather than as a part of everyday practice realities. Our findings suggest that creating globally competent doctors through a globally equivalent curriculum, which is balanced and with a locally invested training programme could lead to a supply or workforce that is fit for purpose for local populations

Design development and performance evaluation of ICE exhaust silencer

The noise levels generated by an unmuffled engine exhaust system can be identified as the loudest vehicle noise source. The muffler or silencer is an essential component of the internal combustion engine exhaust system, its main function is to reduce the exhaust-generated noise to an acceptably low level. Its design development is a complex process affecting the engine efficiency and thusfuel consumption, emissions and overall noise generation. This paper focuses on the design development of a muffler for a single cylinder engine application. A 1D GT-Power model of a single valve engine was developed. Additionally, an analytical muffler preliminary design methodology was introduced. The methodology provides guidelines for muffler grade selection, sizing of different components, calculation of back pressure as a function of the exhaust gas flow rate. Two custom mufflers design concepts were developed for the single cylinder engine based on the introduced analytical methodology. Two commercial single cylinder engine muffler designs available from Yanmar and Loncin were considered for the engine performance evaluation simulation. The presented combination of analytical and numerical modelling procedures can reduce the overall length of the muffler development stage by eliminating faulty design concepts and refining the muffler’s performance parameters

Leaky mode analysis of luminescent thin films: the case of ZnO on sapphire

Zinc oxide (ZnO) epitaxial thin films grown on c-sapphire substrates by pulsed laser deposition were investigated using angle and polarization-resolved photoluminescence spectroscopy. Side-emission spectra differed significantly from surface-emission spectra in exhibiting dominant, narrow, polarization-resolved peaks. These spectral features were attributed to leaky substrate modes in the layers. Observations were first verified using transmission calculations with non-adjustable parameters, which took into account the dispersion, the anisotropy of the ZnO refractive index and the dependence on film thickness. Results were consistent with Fabry-Perot-like interference being the origin of the distinctive ZnO luminescence observed at grazing incidence angles. A second analysis, based on the source terms method, was used in order to retrieve the bulk emission properties, including the wavelength-dependent quantum yield and the emission anisotropy. While ZnO thin films were considered here, this analysis method can be extended to any luminescent thin film of similar geometry, demonstrating the potential of leaky mode analysis for probing passive and active material properties