bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
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

Abstract
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.
Visual Servoing for Robotic In-Space Welding Joint Fit-Up
Authors: Chacon Aida , Reyes-Munoz Julio A. , Mendoza Christopher , Valencia Alexis , Molinar Juan , Flores-Abad Angel 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
This paper explores the use of visual servoing for robotic in-space welding joint fit-ups, demonstrating its potential to achieve high accuracy within in-space welding guidelines in a simulated reduced-gravity environment. The experimental setup includes a UR5e robotic arm and a 2 Degree of Freedom (DOF) robotic arm on a floating sled, simulating a large robotic arm on the International Space Station (ISS) and a robotic satellite, respectively. Two triangular aluminum parts serve as the workpieces and are held by the robotic arms. Two cameras provide visual input, with Python scripts utilizing OpenCV and Robot Operating System (ROS) for real-time feedback and alignment data extraction to create a welded joint fit-up butt-weld. Target alignment data is communicated to the robot controller to execute the motion. The proposed system aims to meet Earth-based welding standards’ accuracy, enabling autonomous robotic welding fit-ups in space. Preliminary results show that the position and orientation (pose) planner can successfully receive and process data, validating the system’s feasibility.
Development and Application of a Mathematical Model for the Quantification of Induced Air and Its Extraction at Bulk Material Transfer Points
Authors: Bozo Efrain , Bozo Gonzalo 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
One of the most used methods to mitigate fugitive dust during bulk material transfers is the extraction of air generated by the falling material, where the airflow is defined by matching it to the calculation of induced air in a confined space.
The motivation behind this study arises from the lack of a mathematical model to quantify the induced air in transfers with wide or no confinement, as well as the limitations identified in traditional theoretical-empirical formulations used for transfers with narrow confinement. These equations do not consider the material trajectory, rock beds, high velocity, high material flow, or the actual behavior of the airflow during the transfer process and after impact in the receiving area.
This study shifts the focus towards developing a mathematical model that considers the material trajectory and the theoretical physical concept of induced airflow. The objective is to obtain, for the first time, a mathematical model to quantify the volume of induced air during the dynamic process of bulk material transfer in unconfined or widely confined spaces. This equation provides the upper limit of the induced area, allowing its applicability to be extended to scenarios with narrow confinement using one of the traditional equations. The model was validated through flow analysis and measurements in a transfer between conveyor belts. The results indicate a significant improvement in the accuracy of the estimated induced air volume compared to previous methods, demonstrating its applicability in various material transfer scenarios. Specifically, this model covers an area not previously addressed, such as the model for induced air without confinement or with wide confinement, which allows for the calculation of the upper induced area and the determination of recirculation efficiency in any transfer with narrow confinement. In other words, it allows for a more accurate determination of the air to be extracted.
The underlying premise of the model is based on the principle that, during the free-fall of the material occurring in a defined lapsus of time, all the natural interstices of the material are occupied by the surrounding air, causing a difference between the initial volume of the material and the final volume due to expansion which, in turn, determines the volume of air induced per unit of time incorporated after the impact.
An Investigation on the Shape Sensitivity of the Electroactive Membrane With Higher-Order Approximation
Authors: Fernandez Bianca , Sarker Pratik , Rahman M. Shafiqur 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
The electroactive polymer is a class of smart material undergoing mechanical deformation when subjected to electric excitation. They have great potential for proper control and maneuvering of small-scale aerial vehicles. The dielectric elastomer is an electroactive polymer undergoing large strain with electric stimulation. Lower-order approximation of the corresponding material behavior cannot predict proper aeroelastic, aerodynamic, and modal characteristics of the material. Besides, different shapes of dielectric elastomers also affect the overall dynamic characteristics. In this research, dynamic behavior of different shapes of VHB 4910 dielectric elastomer membranes under electric excitation and fluid flow are studied using a higher order hyperelastic model. The modal characteristics of the membrane are analyzed for a certain prestretch ratio and different electric excitations by finite element analysis. A computational fluid-structure interaction model is developed to observe the aeroelastic and aerodynamic characteristics of the membrane. Coefficients of aerodynamic forces are estimated for different angles of attack. A comparison of aeroelastic characteristics for several shapes of the membrane is performed for different electric excitations. It is found that the prestretch ratio and electric excitation have influences on aeroelastic, aerodynamic, and modal characteristics of the membrane which can be altered accordingly for proper control of small-scale aerial structures.
Finite Element Analysis of Taper and Straight Porous Dental Implants
Authors: Mehboob Hassan , Ouldyerou Abdelhak , Mehboob Ali , Barsoum Imad 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Conventional dental implants, typically made of dense titanium, exhibit mechanical properties significantly higher than cancellous and cortical bone, leading to stress shielding and potential implant failure. This study aims to evaluate porous and dense implants with tapered and straight designs using the finite element method. The implants were fully bonded with bone to mimic full osseointegration. A load of 200 N was applied to the crown to mimic the chewing forces. The results showed that the tapered porous implant experienced the highest stress in cancellous bone (6.50 MPa), while the straight dense implant recorded the lowest (3.57 MPa). Conversely, the straight dense implant exhibited maximum stress (181.60 MPa) compared to the porous tapered implant (13.07 MPa). However, straight-dense implants demonstrated a higher factor of safety relative to porous implants. Biomechanically, the porous tapered implant outperforms conventional implants and may mitigate associated complications.
Exploring Physics-Informed Machine Learning for a Cylinder in Cross Flow
Authors: An Yajun , Yagi Yoshihiro , Moore Nicole J. , Dillon Heather E. 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
A cylinder in cross flow has been studied by many prior authors as a test case for computational fluid dynamics (CFD). We modified an existing case study for a cylinder in cross flow in an open source CFD program. Once the CFD model was working, we developed a physics-informed machine learning version for benchmarking. The machine learning code was validated using two existing sets of data from the literature for other systems.
Our research question is focused on understanding how well a physics-informed neural net for the Navier Stokes equations represent the behavior of complex flow around a cylinder. After the neural net model was validated, we used data from the CFD tool for a cylinder in cross flow to test the performance of the neural net. We compared velocities and stream functions to the original CFD solution to assess performance.
The results indicate the physics-informed machine learning model is computationally efficient and accurate for predicting the basic flow shapes. The number of training data points is very important for predicting major flow behavior. The machine learning model did not perform well for transfer learning in our study, failing to predict the key wakes. Future work will confirm how responsive the machine learning model is to variations in the input data, and different methods of providing a sparse training set.
Framework and Curricular Implementation of Technical Communication in an Undergraduate Mechanical Engineering Program
Authors: Van Poppel Bret P. , Londner Edward , Banko Andrew A. , Eils Colleen G. , Hoyer Brodie K. , Katalenich Scott M. , Zifchock Rebecca A. 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
This paper describes a mechanical engineering curriculum that is designed to improve student Technical Communication (TECOM). The curriculum is based on a comprehensive model of TECOM that includes guidelines for communicating effectively, three philosophies of professional communication, and three modes of communicating technical information: writing, presentation, and standalone visuals. Core cross-department classes within the curriculum introduce TECOM fundamentals, while the mechanical engineering program reinforces these fundamentals, culminating in a year-long capstone experience. All of these activities are integrated with the institution’s writing development program. Here, the authors present program improvements, proposed initiatives, and new courses under development.
Modeling Lignocellulosic Pyrolysis: An Integral Approach to the Thermal Degradation of Corn Cob and Product Prediction
Authors: Gómez Vásquez Rafael David , Bula Antonio , Mendoza Fandiño Jorge Mario , Camargo-Trillos Diego A. , Rhenals Julio Jesús David , Bonilla Gracia Samuel Iván , Arrieta Almario Álvaro Ángel 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
This study investigates the catalyzed pyrolysis of corn cob as a lignocellulosic biomass, aiming to enhance understanding of thermal decomposition and optimize the production of bio-oil, non-condensable gases, and char. Utilizing a detailed kinetic model adjusted with experimental data, it accurately predicts the impact of operational conditions, such as temperature and heating rate, on the quality and quantity of the products. The model’s validation, achieved by comparing its predictions with existing experimental results, confirmed the reliability of the approach. This research not only provides valuable insights for optimizing biomass pyrolysis but also lays a solid foundation for the design of more efficient thermochemical processes, contributing to the sustainable production of energy and chemicals from renewable resources. Significant findings include notable increases in the production of H2, CO, and CO2 within the 650°C to 950°C temperature range, while CH4 production remained relatively constant. The study also observed a peak liquid yield at 70% under optimal conditions, decreasing due to cracking effects, and highlighted the critical role of pyrolysis temperature in maximizing conversion efficiency. The developed model emerges as a crucial tool for process optimization, emphasizing the importance of biomass conversion research in advancing renewable energy solutions and the circular economy. The work not only provides valuable insights into the thermal behavior of corn cob but also offers a framework for exploring the pyrolysis of other biomass types, promising a significant impact on the development of efficient thermochemical conversion processes emphasizing the importance of biomass conversion research in advancing renewable energy solutions and the circular economy.
Immunoaffinity-Enhanced Lateral Filtration Microdevices for Rare Cell Isolation
Authors: Zhang Yang , Chen Kangfu , Chubb Madison L. , Greer Beate , Lagmay Joanne , Fan Z. Hugh 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Sarcoma is a group of cancers that develop from bones or soft tissues. Among them, osteosarcoma (OS) and Ewing’s sarcoma (EWS) are the most common for children and young adults. While the majority of cancer death is due to metastasis, burgeoning evidence shows that circulating tumor cells (CTCs) are able to detect metastasis and help understand its process. However, isolation of CTCs is hindered by their extreme rarity and heterogeneity. The ratio of CTC to healthy blood cells is often in 1 : 106 – 107 in peripheral blood. Moreover, CTCs are different from each other in phenotypical and genetic characteristics, size, and shape. Microfluidic devices have been shown promising for rare cell isolation due to their high sensitivity and selectivity. We report a lateral filter array microfluidic (LFAM) system for analysis of sarcoma CTCs. The LFAM system enumerates CTCs based on both filtration and immunoaffinity. With antibodies against cell surface vimentin (CSV) and ganglioside 2 (GD2) coated on the surfaces of the microfeatures in the devices, the LFAM system offers capture efficiency up to 99.2%. This work helps understand filtration, the effects of filter size and flow, and immunoaffinity enhancement on CTC isolation for liquid biopsy.
Experimental Characterization of Compressed Air Nozzles
Authors: Park Deokgeun , Roller Jonathan , Kim Taeksoo , Barad Digvijaysinh , Rasmussen Bryan P. 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Compressed air systems, often termed the “fourth utility” in industrial plants, are significant consumers of electricity. Focusing on end use cases where conventional nozzles are replaced with engineered nozzles has potential for energy reduction in compressed air systems in the industry. Engineered nozzles leverage the Coanda effect to entrain ambient air into the airflow from the compressor, thereby reducing the compressor’s load and achieving energy savings. In this study, flow rate and force of air from conventional and engineered nozzles across various operating pressures are quantified through experimental analysis. Quantification of nozzle type on the compressed air energy usage motivates facilities to use efficient nozzles for blowoff applications. Efficient nozzles then lead to energy savings through compressed air setpoint pressure and volumetric compressed air consumption reductions. The economic and environmental benefits of transitioning to efficient nozzles for industrial blowoff applications will be seen both for the facility as well as for the grid.
Fostering Critical Thinking and Practical Skills Development Through Hands-on Projects in Mechatronics, Robotics, and Machine Learning: A Focus on Two Case Studies
Authors: Cooper Brian , Przechocki Charles , Chauhan Vedang D. 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Hands-on projects focused on real-world challenges play a pivotal role in engineering education, fostering critical thinking and problem-solving skills. This paper showcases two mechatronics, robotics, and machine learning projects that bridge the gap between theory and practice, equipping students with practical experience for future industry roles.
The first project centers around a machine learning-based pipe inspection robot designed to navigate small-diameter, lengthy tubes. By utilizing image processing and machine learning, the compact robot captures high-quality images using a phone-mounted setup, enabling effective quality assessments within a 6-inch diameter.
The second project, the Terrain Titan, offers versatility for applications like search and rescue and environmental monitoring. It incorporates a robust communication system for real-time data exchange using nRF24L01 modules, along with a sophisticated locomotion system capable of traversing diverse terrains. The addition of a manipulative arm, guided by an MPU6050 sensor for balance, enhances the robot’s capability for complex tasks.
Detailed development information, including CAD models part lists, programming code, is provided for both projects, facilitating replication and adaptation in educational settings. The projects enhanced students’ problem-solving skills through the development of technical competence, collaborative problem-solving, and adaptability. These findings demonstrate the effectiveness of hands-on projects in engineering education for fostering critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
Modeling Performance of Hybrid Thermionic-Thermoelectric Power Systems for Space Applications
Authors: Juette Elizabeth D. , Carey Van P. , Fleurial Jean-Pierre 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Current radioisotope power system technologies for deep space applications rely on thermoelectric energy conversion to convert heat into electrical power. However, these thermoelectric materials are susceptible to damage in high temperature applications and are limited in their conversion efficiency. Thermionic energy conversion is an alternative form of direct energy conversion that operates most effectively at high temperatures. Due to advances in manufacturing techniques, thermionic technology is being revisited as a practical energy conversion technology with comparable performance to modern thermoelectric technology. A cascaded system incorporating both thermionic and thermoelectric energy conversion technologies can reduce the strain on the thermoelectric materials while increasing the overall power conversion efficiency for space power systems. The purpose of this investigation is to explore, through modeling, how a hybrid conversion system of this type might be optimized using modern technologies for each of the two types of subsystems.
To construct the system-level model we developed component-level, physics-based models and integrated them appropriately into a cascaded system. The thermionic model used in this study includes a more accurate accounting of space charge effects than used previously. This model includes the effects of back-emission and both emitter and collector electron reflection and the subsequent effect on output current density. This modification allows for improved performance prediction across a broad spectrum of emitter and collector temperatures. The hybrid model was used to explore strategies for maximizing hybrid performance within the temperature limits of the expected components. Thermionic and thermoelectric systems alone have typically achieved a conversion efficiency in the 5–10% range for typical heat input and rejection temperatures. Our modeling indicates that a hybrid system combining thermionic technology with the currently available thermoelectric energy conversion technologies could increase the beginning-of-life power output from a pure system efficiency of 5% to a hybrid system efficiency above 30% for input temperatures between 900 K – 2500 K and heat rejection at 300 K.
Engineering Ethics Principles and Design Justice Principles: Are They the Same or Different?
Authors: Das Shuvra 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
When we devise solutions to challenging design questions, quite often we do not consider the possibilities of the harms it may cause, and frequently exclude the voices of the very people who are affected by the design. The Design Justice movement is a network of design practitioners, artists, engineers, design educators and others from a variety of different backgrounds who want to change the design landscape into a more inclusive ecosystem.
Design Justice is an emerging field that seeks to address the ways in which design practices and decisions can perpetuate or challenge systemic injustices. Design Justice practitioners work to ensure that design is accessible, inclusive, and equitable for all. The principles of design justice are a very useful tool for infusing Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion concepts into the undergraduate curriculum. To some the design justice principles may seem similar or the same as the engineers’ code of ethics that are taught to and followed by all engineers. In this paper we examine the two sets of principles and try to find out the similarities and differences between them. This is done through a case study using a real-life problem. Students in multiple classes are tasked to analyze the case using the two sets of principles to determine an appropriate course of action. After that, they are asked to reflect on how their action decisions are similar or different when one set of principles are used versus the other. Through these reflections and the action decisions conclusions are drawn about the two sets of principles. We find that the students’ action decisions are quite different when they are using one set of principles versus the other. This case study was used in multiple courses and with multiple audiences and the results are reported and discussed in this paper.