bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
7. Cervical facet pain: Degenerative alterations and whiplash‐associated disorder
Authors: Hellinga M. D. , van Eerd M. , Stojanovic M. P. , Cohen S. P. , de Andrès Ares J. , Kallewaard J. W. , Van Boxem K. , Van Zundert J. , Niesters M.
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Pain from the cervical facet joints, either due to degenerative conditions or due to whiplash‐related trauma, is very common in the general population. Here, we provide an overview of the literature on the diagnosis and treatment of cervical facet‐related pain with special emphasis on interventional treatment techniques.

Methods

A literature search on the diagnosis and treatment of cervical facet joint pain and whiplash‐associated disorders (WAD) was performed using PubMed, Cochrane, and Embase databases. All relevant literature was retrieved and summarized.

Results

Facet‐related pain is typically diagnosed based on history and physical examination of the patients, combined with a diagnostic block (eg, with local anesthetic) of the medial branches innervating the joints. There is no additive value for imaging techniques to diagnose cervical facet pain, but imaging may be used for procedure planning. First‐line therapy for pain treatment includes focused exercise, graded activity, and range‐of‐motion training. Pharmacological treatment may be considered for acute facet joint pain; however, for chronic facet joint pain, evidence for pharmacological treatment is lacking. Considering the lack of evidence for treatment with botulinum toxin, intra‐articular steroid injections, or surgery, these interventions are not recommended. Diagnostic blocks are not considered a viable treatment option, though some patients may experience a prolonged analgesic effect. Long‐term analgesia (>6 months) has been observed for radiofrequency treatment of the medial branches.

Conclusions

Cervical facet pain is diagnosed based on history, physical examination, and a diagnostic block of the medial branches innervating the painful joints. Conservative management, including exercise therapy, is the first line of treatment. When conservative management does not result in adequate improvement of pain, radiofrequency treatment of the medial branches should be considered, which often results in adequate pain relief.
Jan and mini‐Jan, a model system for potato functional genomics
Authors: Xin Haoyang , Strickland Luke W. , Hamilton John P. , Trusky Jacob K. , Fang Chao , Butler Nathaniel M. , Douches David S. , Buell C. Robin , Jiang Jiming
Published: January 2025

Potato (Solanum tuberosum) is the third‐most important food crop in the world. Although the potato genome has been fully sequenced, functional genomics research of potato lags behind that of other major food crops, largely due to the lack of a model experimental potato line. Here, we present a diploid potato line, ‘Jan,’ which possesses all essential characteristics for facile functional genomics studies. Jan exhibits a high level of homozygosity after seven generations of self‐pollination. Jan is vigorous, highly fertile and produces tubers with outstanding traits. Additionally, it demonstrates high regeneration rates and excellent transformation efficiencies. We generated a chromosome‐scale genome assembly for Jan, annotated its genes and identified syntelogs relative to the potato reference genome assembly DMv6.1 to facilitate functional genomics. To miniaturize plant architecture, we developed two ‘mini‐Jan’ lines with compact and dwarf plant stature through CRISPR/Cas9‐mediated mutagenesis targeting the Dwarf and Erecta genes involved in growth. One mini‐Jan mutant, mini‐JanE, is fully fertile and will permit higher‐throughput studies in limited growth chamber and greenhouse space. Thus, Jan and mini‐Jan offer a robust model system that can be leveraged for gene editing and functional genomics research in potato.
Dynamic in vivo monitoring of granum structural changes of Ctenanthe setosa (Roscoe) Eichler during drought stress and subsequent recovery
Authors: Hembrom Richard , Ünnep Renáta , Sárvári Éva , Nagy Gergely , Solymosi Katalin
Published: January 2025

Investigating the effects of drought stress and subsequent recovery on the structure and function of chloroplasts is essential to understanding how plants adapt to environmental stressors. We investigated Ctenanthe setosa (Roscoe) Eichler, an ornamental plant that can tolerate prolonged drought periods (40 and 49 days of water withdrawal). Conventional biochemical, biophysical, physiological and (ultra)structural methods combined for the first time in a higher plant with in vivo small‐angle neutron scattering (SANS) were used to characterize the alterations induced by drought stress and subsequent recovery. Upon drought stress, no significant changes occurred in the chloroplast ultrastructure, chlorophyll content, 77K fluorescence emission spectra and maximal quantum efficiency of PSII (Qy dark), but the actual quantum efficiency of PSII (Qy light) decreased, the amounts of PSI‐LHCII complexes and PSII monomers declined, and that of PSII supercomplexes increased. Thickness of the leaf and of the adaxial hypodermis, chloroplast length and granum repeat distance (RD) values decreased upon drought stress, as shown by light microscopy and SANS, respectively. Because of the very slight (nm‐range) changes in RD values, the large biological variability (significant differences in RD values among the leaves and studied leaf regions) and the invasive sampling required for this method, transmission electron microscopy (TEM) hardly showed significant differences. On the other side, in situ SANS analyses provided a unique insight in vivo into the fast structural recovery of the granum structure of drought‐stressed leaves, which happened already 18 h after re‐watering, while functional and biochemical recovery took place on a longer time scale.
What is pre‐reflective self‐consciousness an awareness of? An argument for the egological view
Authors: Barbieri Alberto
Published: January 2025

The nature of pre‐reflective self‐consciousness—namely, the putative non‐inferential self‐consciousness involved in unreflective experiences—has become the topic of considerable debate in recent analytic philosophy of consciousness, as it is commonly taken to be what makes conscious mental states first‐personally given to their subject. A major issue of controversy in this debate concerns what pre‐reflective self‐consciousness is an awareness of. Some scholars have suggested that pre‐reflective self‐consciousness involves an awareness of the experiencing subject. This “egological view” is opposed to the “non‐egological view,” according to which the subject is just aware of their own occurrent mental state in being pre‐reflectively self‐conscious. In this article, I argue in favor of the egological view. The argument I develop is a qualified version of a line of reasoning originally provided by Rosenthal and builds on a proper clarification of the ontological status of token mental states. More precisely, I argue that token mental states are structured “fact‐like” entities having their subject among their constituents. Accordingly, one cannot be aware of one's own occurrent mental state without thereby being aware of oneself. I conclude by dismissing a potential objection to my argument.
New Frontiers in the New Sociology of Morality: From AI and Inequality to Backgrounds and Material Enablers
Authors: Abend Gabriel , Posselt Lukas , Schenk Patrick
Published: January 2025

Where is the new sociology of morality headed? We identify and examine some of its new frontiers, both empirical and conceptual. First, we consider moral practices, discourses, and institutions surrounding AI technologies. A second empirical frontier concerns the relationships between inequality and moral evaluation, along with concomitant practices of classification and attribution of causation, responsibility, and deservingness. Next, we turn to the sociology of morality's conceptual frontiers. Recent work has looked at the enablers of moral phenomena, including organizational arrangements, historically variable moral background elements, and material devices and artifacts. These enabling relationships take the sociology of morality beyond research on moral practices, beliefs, and values. Finally, in the conclusion we raise three questions that suggest future steps for the subfield.
Strain Investigations Around Circular Boundaries Based on Digital Image Correlation Data Using Parametrisation and Optimised Smoothing
Authors: Lehmann Thomas , Peretzki Edgar , Ihlemann Jörn
Published: January 2025

This paper deals with a method for strain determination around boreholes in plastic specimens in the context of residual stress analyses. In contrast to the frequently used hole drilling method with strain gauges, the strains are determined using digital image correlation (DIC). In the investigations presented, load stresses occur instead of residual stresses, which is caused by defined loading conditions. Furthermore, an adaption of the hole drilling method is developed, called staggered machining, which includes the successive drilling of a larger and a smaller borehole to obtain deformation data in larger depths compared to the conventional approach. For strain evaluation, a special method is used with parametrisation of an annulus around the borehole. In this region, B‐spline approximation of the DIC displacements is carried out using an optimisation procedure of the smoothing parameter. The tests of the entire method show very plausible and precise results. Furthermore, a comparison with simulation demonstrates good correlation of the strain distributions.
Harnessing artificial intelligence for enhanced veterinary diagnostics: A look to quality assurance, Part II External validation
Authors: Pacholec Christina , Flatland Bente , Xie Hehuang , Zimmerman Kurt
Published: January 2025

Artificial intelligence (AI) is emerging as a valuable diagnostic tool in veterinary medicine, offering affordable and accessible tests that can match or even exceed the performance of medical professionals in similar tasks. Despite the promising outcomes of using AI systems (AIS) as highly accurate diagnostic tools, the field of quality assurance in AIS is still in its early stages. Our Part I manuscript focused on the development and technical validation of an AIS. In Part II, we explore the next step in development: external validation (i.e., in silico testing). This phase is a critical quality assurance component for any AIS intended for medical use, ensuring that high‐quality diagnostics remain the standard in veterinary medicine. The quality assurance process for evaluating an AIS involves rigorous: (1) investigation of sources of bias, (2) application of calibration methods and prediction of uncertainty, (3) implementation of safety monitoring systems, and (4) assessment of repeatability and robustness. Testing with unseen data is an essential part of in silico testing, as it ensures the accuracy and precision of the AIS output.
Archiefsporen volgen
Authors: Put Eddy
Published: January 2025

Voor vele mensen zijn archieven een vreemde en ontoegankelijke wereld. Genealogen, journalisten en historici raken er vaak hopeloos verdwaald. Zelfs ervaren onderzoekers hebben moeite om de werkwijze van archivarissen en de structuur van archieven te doorgronden. Ze voelen zich er als toeristen in een onbekend land waarvan ze de taal en de gebruiken niet of nauwelijks kennen. Dit boek is een pleidooi voor meer archiefintelligentie. Het biedt geen eenvoudige oplossingen of pasklare antwoorden, en belooft zeker geen GPS voor archiefonderzoek. Wel stelt het een aantal uitdagende vragen: hoe navigeer je door een onoverzichtelijke overvloed aan informatie? Hoe vermijd je de platgetreden paden en welke alternatieve routes kun je inslaan? Kortom, Archiefsporen volgen is een praktische gids voor zowel professionele als beginnende onderzoekers die zich willen wagen in de fascinerende, maar soms complexe wereld van archieven.
A Systematic Procedure of Transfer Matrix Method to Analyze Compliant Mechanisms With Irregularly Connected Building Blocks
Authors: Wu Shilei , Ling Mingxiang , Jiang Zhujin
Published: January 2025

Kinetostatic and dynamic analyses are of significance in designing compliant mechanisms. The design challenge of complex configurations with irregular building blocks, however, not only leads to difficult modeling but would also results in large errors and even wrong results. In this article, a systematic procedure of the transfer matrix method is developed for kinetostatic and dynamic analyses of compliant mechanisms with irregular serial-parallel building blocks. To this end, a generalized transfer matrix is established by shifting end nodes of all adjacent flexure members to being coincided. Uniform transfer matrix formulations of purely parallel and parallel-clamped subchains are derived as well. The systematic procedure enables a concise analysis process without the requirement of cumbersome mathematical derivations to deal with irregular connection of flexure building blocks, thus facilitating a parametric modeling that is not only robust but also computationally efficient. A practical design is implemented to show the considerable reduction of modeling complexity and enhancement of prediction accuracy with the presented approach.
Enhancing Thermal Transport in Polymeric Composites Via Engineered Noncovalent Filler–Polymer Interactions
Authors: Zhou Yijie , Hertog-Raz Dina , Raza Saqlain , Transtamar Josh , Abarca Benjamin , Wang Yangyang , Liu Jun , Xu Yanfei
Published: January 2025

Understanding thermal transport mechanisms in polymeric composites allows us to expand the boundaries of thermal conductivity in them, either increasing it for more efficient heat dissipation or decreasing it for better thermal insulation. But, these mechanisms are not fully understood. Systematic experimental investigations remain limited. Practical strategies to tune the interfacial thermal resistance (ITR) between fillers and polymers and the thermal conductivity of composites remain elusive. Here, we studied the thermal transport in representative polymer composites, using polyethylene (PE) or polyaniline (PANI) as matrices and graphite as fillers. PANI, with aromatic rings in its backbone, interacts with graphite through strong noncovalent π–π stacking interactions, whereas PE lacks such interactions. We can then quantify how π–π stacking interactions between graphite and polymers enhance thermal transport in composites. PE/graphite and PANI/graphite composites with the same 1.5% filler volume fractions show a ∼22.82% and ∼34.85% enhancement in thermal conductivity compared to pure polymers, respectively. Calculated ITRs in PE/graphite and PANI/graphite are ∼6×10−8 m2 K W−1 and ∼1×10−8 m2 K W−1, respectively, highlighting how π–π stacking interactions reduce ITR. Molecular dynamics (MD) simulations suggest that π–π stacking interactions between PANI chains and graphite surfaces enhance alignment of PANI's aromatic rings with graphite surfaces. This allows more carbon atoms from PANI chains to interact with graphite surfaces at a shorter distance compared to PE chains. Our work indicates that tuning the π–π stacking interactions between polymers and fillers is an effective approach to reduce the ITR and enhance the thermal conductivity of composites.
Functional Prototyping Using 3-D Printing
Authors: Xue Amy L. , Okamoto Ruth J.
Published: January 2025

3D printing is the most popular activity in the Makerspace at our mid-sized university, with 340 users submitting over 3400 3D print jobs during the 2022–23 academic year. Fifty percent of these print jobs are for users in courses or research labs, who are frequently printing parts for design prototypes. The goal of this research was to identify common issues in the 3D printing process and develop a training module and workshop that educates users how to successfully incorporate 3D printed parts into functional prototypes. We performed mechanical testing to provide recommendations specific to the 3D printers and slicing software available in our Makerspace. We compiled the research and experimental results into an online self-paced training module available to Makerspace users and developed a hands-on workshop that allows the participants to apply the information provided in the online training module. We selected a wave generator assembly based on an online design (thingiverse.com/thing:2495345) for the workshop. Participants modify an initial design while encountering challenges including material interactions, assembling 3D printed parts with other materials, and fastening 3D printed parts. After completing the training and workshop, the Makerspace users should better understand aspects to consider when functionally prototyping with 3D printing, including material interactions, tolerancing, and adhesives.
A Robotic Dog Payload for the Elderly
Authors: Cavazos Omar , Venkatesan Gurushayraam , Wang Shuopu , Imam Syed Abdullah , Shuman-Thomas Shahed , Sunkara Akshay , Green Kendra , Vaidyanathan Vijay
Published: January 2025

In the United States, approximately one-fourth of elderly individuals are at risk of social isolation. Additionally, an average of 32,000 deaths occurs every year due to accidental falls for people over the age of sixty-five. Companion robots can address loneliness and safety concerns among the elderly. Modifying a robot dog with canine attributes fosters connection, warmth, and trust, enhancing relational dynamics. These assistive robots can improve the quality of life for the elderly by supporting mobility, communication, and daily activities. This paper proposes an improved scheme for the Boston Dynamics robot dog, Spot Explorer, designed for the elderly. Spot is controlled using a Raspberry Pi 4 Model B with a customized PyAutoGUI algorithm in Python, enabling wireless interaction and featuring a user-friendly fail-safe component via a keyboard. To test the potential use of obstacle avoidance and human-robot interaction, the preliminary results, analysis of variance, and linear regression of the ultrasound sensor showcased the experimental data on par with the prescribed range. This paper also proposes a user-friendly payload for Spot that was simulated through COMSOL Multiphysics and validated with software innovation and hardware integration for the elderly population. Future work will involve the integration and validation of all sensors with Spot to create a friendly robot dog that could improve the quality of life for senior citizens.
Multi-Objective Optimization of Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) Considering Filament Length, Print Time, and Mechanical Properties
Authors: EisaZadeh Hamid , Torabi Mona
Published: January 2025

Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM), also known as Fused Filament Fabrication (FFF), is the most common type of additive manufacturing technology. Parameters like infill pattern, printing velocity, nozzle diameter, and thermoplastic materials influence the mechanical properties and manufacturing costs of the FDM parts. This study, conducted via Analysis of variance (ANOVA), explores the relations between infill density, infill pattern, material type, and various FDM process parameters, including print time, filament usage, and mechanical properties like elongation, strength, and toughness. One main research result is that grid and gyroid infill patterns offer better tensile strength than cross and triangle patterns. Expectedly, printing time increases with infill density; however, for complex patterns, such as gyroid and cross, at least 15% more time is required when compared to simpler patterns, such as grid and triangle. The research findings from this study can provide further understanding of optimizing FDM processes, offering valuable insights for industries seeking to enhance efficiency, reduce production costs, and manufacture lightweight structures with improved mechanical properties.
Drag Force and Road Traction of a Box-Shaped Car at Various Driving Speeds
Authors: Molki Majid , Andrew Miracle Emaikwu , Muniganti Madhu Kumar
Published: January 2025

This study investigates the aerodynamic qualities of a sub-compact car with a boxy shape using a two-dimensional (2D) model. The research examines the flow over the vehicle and the lift and drag forces that can affect fuel economy and driving stability. The 2D approach takes into account the geometry in the xy plane. However, the 2D method retains many features and characteristics of the actual 3D vehicle. The calculations require a small time step to maintain computational stability and prevent divergence. The model predicts multiple flow separation, recirculation, reattachment, and frequent vortex shedding, resembling the flow over a real car. The results demonstrate that the drag force increases with increasing driving speed, the road traction force increases with increasing driving speed, and the coefficients of drag and downward (negative) lift also increase with increasing driving speed. The study found linear trends within a certain margin for the lift and drag coefficients. The coefficients show a slight influence from the vehicle speed. Specifically, the drag coefficient increases with speed, whereas the lift coefficient is negative and demonstrates an opposite trend, meaning better tire road traction. These findings aid in boosting the aerodynamic capabilities of automobiles, thereby enhancing fuel efficiency and improving on-road safety.
Resilient Behavior of Additive Manufactured CF/Nylon Origami Hybrid Composites for Aerospace Damping
Authors: Hussain Khaja Fayaz , Cantwell Wesley , Khan Kamran A.
Published: January 2025

The main aim of this investigation is to evaluate and compare the energy dissipation characteristics of origami-inspired structures (OIS) constructed from two different materials: discontinuous carbon fiber-reinforced Nylon (CFRN), commercially known as Onyx, and neat Nylon. Circular (COS) and square cross-section (SOS) OIS will be analyzed and hybridized with a plate lattice, resulting in circular origami (COPH) and square origami plate hybrids (SOPH), maintaining a consistent relative density of 20% across all structures. The initial step involves subjecting the structures to quasi-static compression at a strain rate of 2.5 mm/min to determine their maximum effective force within the linear elastic limit. Subsequently, these pre-determined loads will be applied as the OIS undergo cyclic loading at various strain rates (0.25,2.5, 25 mm/min) for up to five cycles within the linear elastic limit. This aims to observe the viscoelastic phenomenon and energy dissipation (ED) behavior. The study will analyze the effect of strain rate on the cyclic response and ED of monolithic and CFRN OIS by recording load-displacement hysteresis loops. Wider loops indicate more viscoelastic behavior and greater energy dissipation, suggesting suitability for damping applications. The investigation will particularly explore the impact of discontinuous carbon fibers on the viscoelastic behavior and energy dissipation of both curved crease OIS and their plate hybrid counterparts. The neat Nylon OIS may exhibit higher energy dissipation (ED) but also demonstrate greater viscoelasticity, which is not ideal for prolonged or repeated cycles. Conversely, the composite origami-inspired structures (OIS), despite displaying lower ED and less viscoelastic behavior, are thought to consistently dissipate energy over an extended number of cycles. The incorporation of CFRN enables the design of OIS with adjustable stiffness and dissipation characteristics.
Lubricating Ability of a Choline-Amino Acid Ionic Liquid As Neat Lubricant and Additive to a Non-Polar Oil
Authors: Kiboi Davis , Hansen Eli , Ross Jared , Coleman Michael , Mangolini Filippo , Iglesias Patricia
Published: January 2025

Although lubricants play an essential role in reducing wear and friction in mechanical systems, environmental issues persist. In the past decades, Ionic Liquids (ILs) have arisen as environmentally friendly alternatives to conventional lubricants and additives. ILs are low-volatile and non-flammable salts that possess low melting points (below 100 °C). Their tunable properties, achieved by selecting the appropriate cation and anion, make them ideal candidates for different applications, including lubricants. In recent times, Protic Ionic Liquids (PILs) have attracted attention in the tribological community as a cost-effective alternative to conventional aprotic counterparts.

In this work, a choline-amino acid ionic liquid, derived only from renewable, biodegradable, and biocompatible products, was synthesized, and investigated as both neat lubricant and additive to non-polar oil. The lubricating properties of [CHO][GLY] were studied both as a neat lubricant and as a 1 wt. % additive to a polyalphaolefin (PAO) oil using a ball-on-flat reciprocating friction tester. AISI 52100 steel disks were tested against AISI 52100 steel balls using either [CHO][GLY] or the mixture of PAO+[CHO][GLY]. For comparison purposes, the commercially available base oil, PAO, was also tested. Preliminary results showed no major differences in friction between the lubricants used. Nevertheless, the addition of 1 wt.% to the PAO demonstrated a remarkable 30% reduction in wear on the steel disk. This encouraging improvement in anti-wear characteristics raises the potential advancement of lubrication technology with the choline-amino acid ionic liquid, coupled with its environmentally friendly nature. Energy-dispersive X-ray (EDX) spectroscopy, non-contact profilometry, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) were used to study the worn steel surfaces and elucidate the wear mechanisms.
Characterization of Temporal Changes of Interfacial Air Voids During Adhesive Curing and Bonding for Adhesively-Bonded Structures
Authors: Qiao Yao , Ko Seunghyun , Shin Yongsoon , Ramos Jose L. , Olson Justin L. , Simmons Kevin L.
Published: January 2025

This paper studied the evolution of air voids at the substrate-adhesive interface during the curing and bonding process of an epoxy-based adhesive between two glass substrates due to the sequence of adhesive placement, external pressure, and plasma treatment on substrates for bonding. The experimental results showed that a higher quantity of interfacial voids were generated during adhesive curing when the substrate was attached to the adhesive compared to when the adhesive was applied and distributed on the substrate. Such interfacial voids can be efficiently removed or reduced by applying slight pressure on the bonded structure during adhesive curing, or by leveraging plasma-treated substrates, as less reported in the literature.

This work provided practical suggestions for preparing adhesive joints with minimized interfacial air voids to enhance bonding performance, particularly for dissimilar joints such as metal-CFRTP (carbon-fiber-reinforced thermoplastic polymer), as well as combinations with different types of polymer composites.
Numerical Modeling and Life Prediction of Double Shoulder Connection for Drillstem Elements
Authors: Zhang Haitao , Battentier Amandine , Oliver David
Published: January 2025

A double shoulder connection (DSC) is an enhanced joint design used in the oil and gas drilling industry to improve the mechanical performance of the drillstring and suite for special applications. In this study, we used a finite element modeling-based approach to model and evaluate the performance of the DSC in terms of structural integrity and fatigue life. A strain-life approach is used to predict fatigue life of the connection, and experimental data are used to validate the fatigue life prediction. The method is applied to development of a DSC with parallel threads. The effect of critical design variables such as the pin and box lengths, total make-up torque, and distribution of makeup torque on the primary shoulder and secondary shoulder are investigated. It is found that the unsupported section of the box is prone to overstress failure for the connection subjected to high external pressure. The root of last thread for both the pin and box are critical locations for fatigue. To achieve good sealability at the primary shoulder, a longer box is desired. The length of the pin and box can be optimized to meet the requirements of the connection for both overstress and fatigue.
Advancements in Additively Manufactured Safety Materials: Energy-Efficient 3D Printing Solutions for Critical Infrastructure
Authors: Khan Shoukat Alim , Koc Muammer
Published: January 2025

3D concrete printing technology offers an ideal solution for resilient infrastructure development in critical and emergency situations, but accessing required materials and energy can be challenging. This study focuses on an integrated renewable energy system with hydrogen storage to support a mobile and autonomous 3D printing system. The system is designed to meet off-grid energy needs, including material synthesis. Two local materials were analyzed: Construction and Demolition Waste (CDW)-based geopolymer concrete and directly printable local materials. Due to the energy-intensive process required for producing geopolymers, direct printing with local materials is more favorable. Under steady-state conditions, the 5.36 kW system can print 2.86 m3 of local material or 0.22 m3 of geopolymer concrete in 24 hours. The feasibility, production capacity, and overall performance of the system were analyzed under varying solar irradiance conditions. The environmental impact analysis identified CDW-based geopolymer materials as a hotspot, mainly due to the alkaline solution and energy required for mechanical processing. Using local materials for direct printing significantly reduced energy consumption and eliminated the need for an alkaline solution, reducing environmental impact by over 95%. The study demonstrates the potential energy and environmental benefits of using local materials, suggesting further exploration is warranted.
Optimal Nonsingular Terminal Sliding Mode Control for Knee Replacement Exoskeletons
Authors: Sitler Gabriel , Sardahi Yousef , Salem Asad
Published: January 2025

This paper presents an innovative control design for a knee replacement exoskeleton, focusing on a dynamic synthesis of human-exoskeleton interactions. The design incorporates an optimally configured nonsingular terminal sliding mode controller (NTSMC), selected for its robust performance in uncertain and variable conditions. A key attribute of the NTSMC is its ability to achieve desired motion states swiftly and accurately, while maintaining nonsingularity, thereby boosting both safety and reliability. Central to our methodology is the application of the Non-dominated Sorting Genetic Algorithm (NSGA-II) in a multi-objective optimization framework. This approach effectively meets the intricate control objectives of the exoskeleton. The NSGA-II algorithm optimizes NTSMC’s setup parameters, balancing the minimization of settling time and integral absolute error. This balance is essential for ensuring the knee exoskeleton’s rapid, precise responses to dynamic movements, and for augmenting the smoothness of the NTSMC’s control signal, which in turn, improves user comfort and minimizes physical strain. Our findings confirm the control system’s adaptability to various patient parameters and its robustness against external factors like human torque. Additionally, the system proficiently monitors and follows squat movements and standard gait patterns.
Coastal Levee Optimization Using FLIP Flood Model
Authors: Zhang Ning , Fontenot Logan , Zhang Kaylee
Published: January 2025

The research demonstrates a high fidelity CFD simulation of storm surge flood using particle method. A hybrid particle method combining smooth particle hydrodynamics (SPH) model with VOF were used in the research. A validation and verification procedure were conducted to prove the accuracy of the model. The validation case is an open channel flow with different types of break water. Experiments were conducted to identify the flow pattern. Simulation results were compared with the measured data and the agreement is good. Therefore, the model is validated. The model was then applied to simulate different storm surge scenario to study the impact of the flood to the buildings. The locations selected for simulations are a portion of university campus where a bayou is pass through, and a relatively larger area around Moss Lake in southwest Louisiana coastal area. Realistic topographic data from Google Earth and scanned using LiDar technology are used in the study to realize the simulation domain. Different levels of storm surge floods were simulated to study the exterior impacts on the nearby buildings. The interior views of the flooded building are also presented to investigate the impacts of the flood on the interior of the building. Based on the flood results, several flood solutions were implemented in the study to reveal whether the solutions are effective.
Improving Hydrodynamic Performance of an Asymmetric Towfish Using CFD
Authors: Bhosale Yugandhara , Sharma Atul , Gupta Abhishek , Vachhani Leena
Published: January 2025

A towfish is a passive underwater vehicle that is towed behind a surface vessel. The towfish is often designed to be symmetric from all directions primarily to achieve balanced hydrodynamic behaviour and foreseeable manoeuvrability under water. External attachments or extruded slots can induce asymmetry, which will have an effect on the hydrodynamic behaviour. An asymmetric towfish will experience an uneven distribution of hydrodynamic forces and moments. This will lead to unstable orientation and unpredictable hydrodynamic behaviour. So, the effect of asymmetry on hydrodynamic coefficients like drag coefficients, lift coefficients, pitching moment coefficients and overall stability are investigated in this paper and improved with design modification in towfish. We evaluated these hydrodynamic coefficients of the asymmetric towfish and proposed a redesign strategy. In this work, the significant parts of towfish, like the nose and hull are redesigned to improve hydrodynamic performance. A three-dimensional (3D) simulation is carried out using in Ansys Fluent as a CFD software. To simulate the turbulence, the k-ω shear stress transport (SST) model is employed due to its good prediction capability at a reasonable computational cost. Drag reduction and lift increment are observed with modification and redesigning of the nose and hull to counter the increase in drag due to the asymmetricity of towfish. These results will help to enhance our understanding of the hydrodynamics behavior of the asymmetric nature of towfish.
Role Perception and Diversity Dynamics: A Study of Student Teams in Project Environments
Authors: Leão Celina P. , Silva Vinícius , Machado José , Alves Anabela C.
Published: January 2025

This paper explores the significance of defining and perceiving each student’s role within a team, particularly focusing on the utilization of the Belbin test for members’ role definition. In a first-year Industrial Engineering and Management program (bachelor degree), students engage in project-based learning (PBL) in the first semester of the first year, working collaboratively in teams of seven to nine members to develop innovative projects during the semester.

In this project environment, understanding and defining individual roles play a pivotal role in determining team performance and project outcomes. Thus, one of the initial tasks for teams was completing the Belbin Self-Perception Inventory (SPI) questionnaire to understand their respective roles within the team dynamic, fostering self-awareness and interpersonal skills necessary for effective teamwork.

To assess the extent to which students are aware of evolving dynamics and perceive changes in role perception during their academic journey, the same cohort, now in the last year of their master’s degree (five years later), repeated the same SPI questionnaire. Comparing their Belbin test results from the outset of their academic journey to their current stage can provide insights into role evolution and adaptation over time. Additionally, the study examines the correlation between role perception, team dynamics, and project outcomes to identify patterns contributing to effective teamwork and project management.

This study considered data gathered via a questionnaire administered to final year students after participating in a curricular unit (CU) with team-based challenges. Overall, 37% of students found Belbin’s theory beneficial for team performance, while 43% reported personal benefits. However, opinions on role perception based on the Belbin test varied, with some emphasizing individual roles and others emphasizing impartial task allocation.
Additive Manufacturing With Continuous Carbon Fiber Composite Reinforcement for Gyroid Triply Periodic Minimal Surface (TPMS): Compression Mechanical Properties
Authors: Susantyoko Rahmat Agung , Skibar Mikhail , Joy Arun , Pervaiz Salman
Published: January 2025

Composite 3D printing is promising for applications that require lightweight and relatively strong mechanical properties. This work reports the utilization of additively manufactured continuous carbon fiber composite to enhance the compressive strength of Gyroid Triply Periodic Minimal Surface (TPMS) structure. Finite Element Analysis (FEA) and experimental additive manufacturing of Gyroid TPMS were performed. FEA shows stress magnitude and distribution along Gyroid model, in consistency with literature. Experiments of compression test of additively manufactured “Onyx material” and “Onyx + continuous carbon fiber materials” were performed. Onyx material is a micro carbon fiber filled nylon. There was no significant change in the densification strain. Continuous carbon fiber reinforcement significantly increased the compression modulus (343%) and yield strength (250%) when tested with the direction of uniaxial compression parallel to the printing layers’ plane (Configuration B); and significantly increased the plateau stress (138%) and energy absorption (129%) when tested with the direction of uniaxial compression perpendicular to the printing layers’ plane (Configuration A). Anisotropy affected the compression mechanical properties depending on compression direction and layers’ plane orientation. Layer delamination is a critical aspect for Configuration B. The configuration B is more suitable for applications which require more stiffness, while configuration A is more suitable for application that require higher value of toughness or energy absorption.
Design Space Optimization for Sensor-Integration in Standardized Machine Elements
Authors: Peters Julian , Menning Johannes D. M. , Ewert Arthur , Prokopchuk Artem , Breimann Richard , Herbst Felix , Riehl David , Döllken Markus , Vorrath E.-F. Markus , Wallmersperger Thomas , Schlecht Berthold , Kirchner Eckhard , Kupnik Mario , Hofmann Klaus , Matthiesen Sven
Published: January 2025

In industrial digitization, data-driven analysis like condition monitoring and predictive maintenance relies on extensive measurement data. However, there’s often a lack of data on machine or system states. Sensor-integrating machine elements (SiME) can address this gap due to their widespread use, standardization, and in-situ measurement capability. Yet, integrating sensors typically compromises mechanical function. To ensure broad usability and retrofitting, maintaining mechanical functions to a defined degree is crucial. General procedures for systematically finding optimal design space solutions are lacking. In prior work, a procedure was developed for multi-axial force sensor integration into M20 bolts. This contribution demonstrates the procedure’s applicability to (1) M12 bolts for uni-axial force measurements using strain gauges, and (2) jaw couplings for torque measurement using capacitive sensors. Results indicate the procedure’s efficacy in both cases, yielding viable design space parameters. However, constructing an optimization function for jaw couplings in the final step was not feasible, as both mechanical and sensory function fulfillment indices pointed in the same direction.
Experimental and Numerical Investigation on the Hydrodynamic Characteristics of V-Fin Depressor
Authors: P. N. Jithin , Sherif Parammel Shifan , Jomike Michael Moses , Jacob Antony Joyal , K. Marvan , Naveen P. , P. A. Sidheek , Safwan K. N. , Shahed Shahed
Published: January 2025

Having applications in marine and naval industries ranging from, trawling, monitoring of aquatic life systems such as fish stocks, planktons, coral reefs to seabed terrain mapping, hostile vessel and mine detection, oil and gas exploration, a hydrodynamic depressor provides the downward lift necessary to tow underwater bodies at certain depths, providing stability from the vibrations induced by the ship for accuracy of measurements as well as reducing drag for the efficiency of the towing system. In this study, the 3D model of the V-fin depressor was developed from the profile of NACA0012 using 3D Experience® platform. Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) analysis on the V-fin depressor was performed using ANSYS® Fluent to determine various hydrodynamic parameters such as lift and drag force. To validate the simulation results, a real-time experimentation was conducted using a towing tank facility where the V-fin depressor was subjected to towing at a depth of 1 m and speed of 2 m/s. Through meticulous experimentation and analysis, drag and lift values of the V-fin depressor were determined, and the obtained results were found to be comparable with the simulation results.
Numerical Analysis of the Alteration in Natural Convection Flow and Heat Transfer in Porous Media Using Magnetic Field
Authors: Singh Ranjit J. , Vijayavenkataraman Sanjairaj , Kumar Sunil
Published: January 2025

In this study, the optimum magnetic field intensity to overcome the flow and heat transfer suppression offered by a saturated porous zone in the square cavity of side length L is examined. The porous zone is kept at the central vertical area in the square cavity with a thick zone of L/4, and the magnetic field is also maintained in the central vertical zone with an L/2 thick zone oriented in the direction transverse to gravity and temperature gradient. The flow solver including the Darcy-Forchheimer term in the Navier-Stokes equation merged with Maxwell’s electrodynamics equation and the energy equation is framed in OpenFOAM 10. The Darcy value for the porous zone is fixed at 10−3, and the magnetic field is varied as Hartmann number Ha = 0, 10, 15, 20. The buoyancy-induced flow is regulated by the Rayleigh number Ra = 105 and Prandtl number Pr = 0.02. The numerically obtained results clarify that the porous zone decreases the convection heat transfer and inhibits the flow. However, the magnetic field brings back the convection flow through the porous zone, where isotherms are again shifted like a convection flow pattern. Consequently, the magnetic field imposed orthogonal to gravity and temperature gradient improves the heat transfer by 30% compared to porous media flow.
Design a Maintenance Plan Centered on Exergoeconomic Variables of a Refinery’s Combined Cycle Cogeneration System
Authors: Fajardo Juan , Barreto Deibys , Guette Dawing , Yabrudy Daniel , Urruchurtu Michelle
Published: January 2025

This study examines a combined cycle plant powered by a Siemens STG-800 gas turbine, producing 47.5 MW of electricity and 81,908 kg/h of steam via a MACCHI Heat Recovery Steam Generator (HRSG). The plant is part of a refinery’s steam and electricity generation section in Cartagena de Indias.

Owing to the differences between Cartagena’s conditions and ISO standards, evaluating component performance under actual operating conditions is crucial. Methodologically, the methodology involved defining thermodynamic principles “visual inspection of the compressor with a borescope”, conducting energy balance assessments, and establishing performance parameters to compare the model fit with the manufacturer’s values. Exergy balances were developed to determine the exergy destruction rates and overall exergy efficiency, explore component interactions, and identify improvement areas. Exergoeconomic analysis quantified monetary losses and recovery capacity. To develop the maintenance program, the performance degradation due to compressor and gas turbine fouling and erosion was evaluated over time. The proposed maintenance indicators and criticality matrix allowed the prioritization of timely maintenance to restore lost efficiency and optimize cost-benefit ratios.

The average model adjustment error was 2%. Exergetic analyses pinpointed day 206 as the peak exergy destruction, with the gas turbine compressor exhibiting the most significant interaction with irreversibilities. Exergoeconomic analyses showed that the equipment relying on chemical reactions incurred the highest exergy destruction costs. Maintenance recommendations suggest advancing Maintenance Types A and B while extending Maintenance Type IV beyond the manufacturer’s specifications.
United States- South Africa International Collaboration Leading to a Unique Summer Research Experience of STEM Scholars: Lessons from a Pilot Initiative
Authors: Kumpaty Subha , Hoeffel Jack , McDade Ken'triana , Sacks Natasha
Published: January 2025

Professor Kumpaty provided unique opportunities to Milwaukee School of Engineering Undergraduate Engineering Students to conduct materials research in summers at excellent research centers in India and South Africa through both International Research Experiences for Students Site, OISE-1001605 (2011–2013) and Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) Site International component, EEC-1460183 (2015–2017) funded by the National Science Foundation (NSF). Through current NSF Scholarships for Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (S-STEM) grant, DUE-2027632, two undergraduate mechanical engineering students spent six weeks at Stellenbosch University near Cape Town, South Africa on the first-ever STEM Scholar research initiative abroad. The seeds of this collaboration with Professor Natasha Sacks in South Africa started in 2017 and various challenges for an opportunity for a pilot study were overcome and many lessons have emerged from the successful implementation in 2023. Students worked on Design and Analysis of Lattice Structures in a Racing Bike Stem and presented both orally and in a poster session at both institutions.

MSOE received its first-ever S-STEM grant in 2020 which supports academically talented but financially challenged students. PI Kumpaty has been connecting STEM scholar cohorts with industry for internships and guiding them in securing REU positions at various universities in the U.S. The thought of research abroad has been a difficult idea for scholars to embrace while they were trying to settle down in their coursework and strive for academic success. In the meantime, Kumpaty and Sacks have collaborated on the research areas and logistics for U.S. undergraduate students to participate in a pilot study, for a few years. In Spring 2023, several MS Teams sessions were conducted to meet students interested in attending Stellenbosch University as a Research Affiliate. Various logistical details will be provided in the paper to highlight the preparation needed to establish viable programs for international collaboration.

The impacts of this global and cultural immersion are manifold. Participants have an appreciation for working with engineers and scientists and meeting with people of South Africa. The faculty are impacted as well in terms of our resources and pedagogies in training and developing the future STEM workforce. Overall, we find global perspectives to aid excellence in engineering education.