Infinite Self-Propulsion of Circularly On/Discharged Droplets.

Self-propulsion of droplets in a controlled and long path at a high-speed is crucial for organic synthesis, pathological diagnosis and programable lab-on-a-chip. To date, extensive efforts have been made to achieve droplet self-propulsion by asymmetric gradient, yet, existing structural, chemical, or charge density gradients can only last for a while (<50 mm). Here, this work designs a symmetrical waved alternating potential (WAP) on a superhydrophobic surface to charge or discharge the droplets during the transport process. By deeply studying the motion mechanisms for neutral droplets and charged droplets, the circularly on/discharged droplets achieve the infinite self-propulsion (>1000 mm) with an ultrahigh velocity of meters per second. In addition, after permutation and combination of two motion styles of the droplets, it can be competent for more interesting work, such as liquid diode and liquid logic gate. Being assembled into a microfluidic chip, the strategy would be applied in chemical synthesis, cell culture, and diagnostic kits.

Development of an Automated and Scalable Virtual Assistant to Aid in PPE Adherence: A Study with Implications for Applications within Anesthesiology.

Virtual assistants (VAs) are conversational agents that are able to provide cognitive aid. We developed a VA device for donning and doffing personal protective equipment (PPE) procedures and compared it to live human coaching to explore the feasibility of using VAs in the anesthesiology setting. An automated, scalable, voice-enabled VA was built using the Amazon Alexa device and Alexa Skills application. The device utilized voice-recognition technology to allow a touch-free interactive user experience. Audio and video step-by-step instructions for proper donning and doffing of PPE were programmed and displayed on an Echo Show device. The effectiveness of VA in aiding adherence to PPE protocols was compared to traditional human coaching in a randomized, controlled, single-blinded crossover design. 70 anesthesiologists, anesthesia assistants, respiratory therapists, and operating room nurses performed both donning and doffing procedures, once under step-by-step VA instructional guidance and once with human coaching. Performance was assessed using objective performance evaluation donning and doffing checklists. More participants in the VA group correctly performed the step of "Wash hands for 20 seconds" during both donning and doffing tests. Fewer participants in the VA group correctly performed the steps of "Put cap on and ensure covers hair and ears" and "Tie gown on back and around neck". The mean doffing total score was higher in the VA group; however, the donning score was similar in both groups. Our study demonstrates that it is feasible to use commercially available technology to create a voice-enabled VA that provides effective step-by-step instructions to healthcare professionals.