Search Results (40)

Spoken Language Identification (SLID)-based applications have become increasingly important in everyday life, driven by advancements in artificial intelligence and machine learning. Multilingual countries utilize the SLID method to facilitate speech detection. This is accomplished by determining the language of the spoken parts using language recognizers. On the other hand, when working with multilingual datasets, the presence of multiple languages that have a shared origin presents a significant challenge for accurately classifying languages using automatic techniques. Further, one more challenge is the significant variance in speech signals caused by factors such as different speakers, content, acoustic settings, language differences, changes in voice modulation based on age and gender, and variations in speech patterns. In this study, we introduce the DBODL-MSLIS approach, which integrates biomimetic optimization techniques inspired by natural intelligence to enhance language classification. The proposed method employs Dung Beetle Optimization (DBO) with Deep Learning, simulating the beetle’s foraging behavior to optimize feature selection and classification performance. The proposed technique integrates speech preprocessing, which encompasses pre-emphasis, windowing, and frame blocking, followed by feature extraction utilizing pitch, energy, Discrete Wavelet Transform (DWT), and Zero crossing rate (ZCR). Further, the selection of features is performed by DBO algorithm, which removes redundant features and helps to improve efficiency and accuracy. Spoken languages are classified using Bayesian optimization (BO) in conjunction with a long short-term memory (LSTM) network. The DBODL-MSLIS technique has been experimentally validated using the IIIT Spoken Language dataset. The results indicate an average accuracy of 95.54% and an F-score of 84.31%. This technique surpasses various other state-of-the-art models, such as SVM, MLP, LDA, DLA-ASLISS, HMHFS-IISLFAS, GA base fusion, and VGG-16. We have evaluated the accuracy of our proposed technique against state-of-the-art biomimetic computing models such as GA, PSO, GWO, DE, and ACO. While ACO achieved up to 89.45% accuracy, our Bayesian Optimization with LSTM outperformed all others, reaching a peak accuracy of 95.55%, demonstrating its effectiveness in enhancing spoken language identification. The suggested technique demonstrates promising potential for practical applications in the field of multi-lingual voice processing. Full article

The tribological behavior of molybdenum disulfide (MoS₂) coatings was systematically investigated under various controlled gas environments in a vacuum chamber. A hemispherical steel pin was slid cyclically over a MoS₂-coated steel disk, prepared via high-speed powder spraying. The study measured both dynamic and static friction coefficients under different gaseous atmospheres, including high vacuum, helium, argon, dry air, and water vapor. In high vacuum (10⁻⁵ Pa), an ultra-low dynamic friction coefficient (µ ≈ 0.01) was observed, while increasing values were recorded with helium (µ ≈ 0.03), argon (µ ≈ 0.04), dry air (µ ≈ 0.17), and water vapor (µ ≈ 0.30). Static friction coefficients followed a similar trend, decreasing significantly upon evacuation of water vapor or injection of inert gases. Surface analyses revealed that friction in vacuum or inert gases promoted smooth wear tracks and basal plane alignment of MoS₂ crystallites, while exposure to water vapor led to rougher, more disordered wear surfaces. Mass spectrometry and energetic modeling of physisorption interactions provided further insights into gas–solid interfacial mechanisms. These results demonstrate that the tribological performance of MoS₂ coatings is highly sensitive to the surrounding gas environment, with inert and vacuum conditions favoring low friction through enhanced basal plane orientation and minimal gas–surface interactions. In contrast, water vapor disrupts this structure, increasing friction and surface degradation. Understanding these interactions is crucial for optimizing MoS₂-based lubrication systems in varying atmospheric or sealed environments. Full article

Slide burnishing is a non-material-removal process that improves surface finish by plastically deforming peaks into valleys using a spherical hard tool. Conventionally, multiple passes were applied with the same setup to address residual peaks, even though the first pass achieves most of the deformation. Each pass consumes equal time and energy unless parameters like feed or force are adjusted, and changing these parameters requires another cycle of passes. This repetitive approach leads to inefficiencies in time and energy, highlighting the need for different approaches to reduce redundancy while improving surface integrity. This experiment aims to change these processes by changing the feed after each pass to help the tool follow a different path than the first round. Four levels of tool feed with three levels of force and three passes were tested in nine runs that required 27 runs in the conventional method for comparison and were used to burnish the face-milled C45 steel. The new method enhanced the initial surface with up to a 66.6% decrease in Sq, greater than by the old method, and up to 69.3% in Ssk. The new method showed more steady and predictable changes of skewness than the old method during parameter changes. The old method performed better in reducing kurtosis levels when a higher number of passes (three and four) were used. These results demonstrate significant improvement over the traditional techniques, paving the way for innovative advancements and further research in the field. Full article

Sugarcane bagasse (SCB) constitutes up to 28% of the weight of crushed sugarcane, with significant potential for bioenergy production. Solid-state anaerobic digestion with total solids (TSs) over 15% is an interesting technology that can be used to treat agricultural wastes such as SCB, resulting in smaller reactor sizes and lower water consumption. This study investigates methane production from SCB under wet (10% TS), hemi-solid (15% TS), and solid-state (20% TS) anaerobic digestion with substrate-to-inoculum ratios (SIR) of 1, 2, 3, and 4. Batch experiments were conducted under mesophilic conditions (37 °C) to evaluate methane yields, volumetric methane productivity, and kinetic parameters. Results revealed that the highest methane yields—125, 115, and 106 L CH₄ kg VS⁻¹—were achieved for wet, hemi-solid, and solid-state digestion, respectively. Despite similar methane yields across TS conditions, volumetric methane productivities increased by 118% and 128% from hemi-slid and solid-state digestion, demonstrating their potential for scaling up in commercial biogas plants. The first-order kinetic model best-predicted methane production (R² > 0.984), with hydrolysis identified as the limiting step (K_hyd ≤ 0.05 d⁻¹). These findings highlight the advantages of solid-state anaerobic digestion for lignocellulosic feedstocks like SCB, contributing to bioenergy sustainability and the circular economy. Full article

Hard roof top-cutting and gob-side roadway retention is an effective way to improve the panel recovery ratio and reduce ground pressure. Based on the condition of Pingmei No.2 Mine, this paper establishes a stability mechanics model for the roof in a trapezoidal top-cutting roadway with inclined coal seam, in order to analyze the factors influencing the stability of the roof. This paper studies the deformation characteristics and control mechanism of the surrounding rock in a trapezoidal top-cutting roadway, and proposes targeted stability control technologies for the surrounding rock. The results showed that: (1) in a trapezoidal top-cutting roadway in the hard roof with inclined coal seam, the tensile stress of the uncut roof was inversely proportional to the coal seam dip angle, roof thickness and top-cutting height, while it was proportional to the top-cutting angle. According to actual engineering conditions, the top-cutting angle and height of the roof of the 21,100-panel were determined to be 10° and 5.0 m, respectively; (2) the special structure of the trapezoidal roadway led to asymmetric stress distribution in the surrounding rock, especially in the roof and rib. Using top-cutting, the pressure relief reduced the roof stress from 6.73 MPa to 2.04 MPa, the high stress zone moved to the inside of the solid coal, and the roof slid and deformed along the top line, showing characteristics of a “large deformation on the top side”; and (3) high-strength long anchor cables were used to reinforce the roof on the cut top side. Telescopic U-shaped steel and windshield cloth were used to block gangue and prevent wind leakage in the roadway. The on-site industrial test measured the maximum subsidence of the roof at 120 mm, and the maximum layer separation was 29 mm. Relative to non-top-cutting methods, the roof and sides showed significantly reduced deformation throughout the mining operations, which verified the reliability of the control technology. Full article

Celiac plexus (CP) block (CPB) and neurolysis (CPN) are interventional techniques employed in human analgesia to control visceral pain originating from the upper abdomen. Visceral pain is common in animals and its treatment is challenging. A percutaneous ultrasound (US)-guided approach to the CP has been reported in people but not in veterinary species. The objective of this study is to describe a US-guided percutaneous approach to the CP in a porcine cadaveric model. Cadavers were positioned in right lateral recumbency. The vertebral body of the last thoracic vertebra (T15) was identified (in transverse view) with a left cranial abdominal US scan. Under US guidance, an 18 G Tuohy needle was inserted parallel and ventral to the transverse process of T15. The transducer was gently slid and tilted to have an in-plane view while introducing the needle through the epaxial muscle layer. Once the T15 body was contacted, the needle was advanced towards the ventral surface of the vertebra, and if loss of resistance was present, 2 mL of dye (China Ink) was injected. A laparotomy was performed, and the dyed tissue dissected for histological preparation from 14 cadavers. In all samples submitted for histological study, tissue belonging to the CP was found. The percutaneous ultrasound-guided approach to the CP was effective in localizing the CP in all subjects. Future studies are warranted to identify the clinical utility of this technique in veterinary species. Full article

The worldwide food industry faces the multiple challenges of providing food security while also reducing environmental and health consequences. This requires transitioning to chemical-free techniques of preserving food with a long shelf life that emphasize human health. Even though millions of people are experiencing hunger, the substantial amount of food that is being wasted is impeding the advancement towards UN Sustainable Development Goal 12, which aims to reduce food waste by 50% by the year 2030. On the other hand, conventional food preservation techniques still frequently depend on chemical additives, which might give rise to persistent health issues and potentially undermine nutritional quality. This emphasizes the necessity for inventive, non-chemical remedies that prioritize both prolonged storage duration and the safety of food. Consumer storage conditions, which are the ultimate phase of the food chain, still generate substantial waste because of the proliferation of mold and bacteria on fruits and vegetables, which presents health hazards. Enhancing storage conditions and extending shelf life is important. Low-frequency ultraviolet (UV-C) light technology provides a non-thermal and highly efficient method for fighting foodborne microorganisms such as mold. This method renders pathogens inactive while maintaining product quality, providing a cost-efficient and easily available alternative. This study proposes the development of a programmable “Smart-Lid” SLID storage system that utilizes upcycled home base glass jars with UV-C light-emitting lids to prevent mold growth on various open food items, including milk- and sugar-based food, sauces, and possibly dry meals. The research seeks to assess the efficacy and potential influence of the SLID solution with UV-C light’s potential with programmable applications in this preserving environment at the home level. Full article

Dry lubricants used in highly loaded rolling bearings are in the focus of current research. In previous studies, graphene platelets applied as dry lubricants on the surfaces of angular contact ball bearings demonstrated superior properties. These specific bearings, experiencing both rolling and spinning motion, create more severe conditions for dry lubricants. To gain deeper insights into the lubrication effects, micro-tribological studies were carried out on the respective film formation and running behavior effects. In the tests, a fixed steel ball slid against an oscillating counterpart under a defined load. During the measurements, the applied load and tangential forces on the ball were recorded to calculate the friction. Comparative investigations included nano-graphite particles and fullerene as dry lubricants, in addition to graphene platelets of various staple thicknesses. To increase the adhesion of the films to the surfaces, a pre-rolling process was implemented. Afterwards, the friction on the compressed films was measured. The results indicate that the pre-rolling process effectively reduces the friction of the system. After testing, the surfaces underwent analysis using laser scanning microscopy to assess the formed films, wear, and material transfer. It has been demonstrated that the pre-rolling process leads to the formation of a very thin compacted film with surface protective properties. With the ball as a counterpart, the graphene platelets generate a transfer film on the contacting surface. Full article

The deformation and re-crushing characteristics of different lithological caving crushed gangues in mine goaf directly affect the overburden strata movement, which significantly affects the surface subsidence of mining goaf. The effect of particle size on the re-crushing characteristics of different lithological caving crushed gangues in mine goaf is investigated in this study based on an innovative compression–AE (acoustic emission) measuring method. The results showed the following: (1) The compression deformation was divided into three stages: rapid, slow, and stable compaction. With the increase in axial pressure, the large particle skeletons were destroyed, medium particles were displaced and slid, and small particles filled the pores. (2) For singular lithologies, stress was positively correlated with pressure, and porosity was negatively correlated with stress. The composite sample was between the singular gangue samples. (3) The fractal dimension of crushed gangue samples was exponentially related to the proportion of gangue in singular and combined lithologies. (4) The cumulative AE count and energy of the combined lithological gangue samples were between those of the singular samples. The research results provide a theoretical foundation for further research into the characteristics of the overlying strata, surface movement, and safety management of the goaf. Full article

High-resolution imaging of buried metal interconnect structures in advanced microelectronic products with full-field X-ray microscopy is demonstrated in the hard X-ray regime, i.e., at photon energies > 10 keV. The combination of two multilayer optics—a side-by-side Montel (or nested Kirkpatrick–Baez) condenser optic and a high aspect-ratio multilayer Laue lens—results in an asymmetric optical path in the transmission X-ray microscope. This optics arrangement allows the imaging of 3D nanostructures in opaque objects at a photon energy of 24.2 keV (In-Kα X-ray line). Using a Siemens star test pattern with a minimal feature size of 150 nm, it was proven that features < 150 nm can be resolved. In-Kα radiation is generated from a Ga-In alloy target using a laboratory X-ray source that employs the liquid-metal-jet technology. Since the penetration depth of X-rays into the samples is significantly larger compared to 8 keV photons used in state-of-the-art laboratory X-ray microscopes (Cu-Kα radiation), 3D-nanopattered materials and structures can be imaged nondestructively in mm to cm thick samples. This means that destructive de-processing, thinning or cross-sectioning of the samples are not needed for the visualization of interconnect structures in microelectronic products manufactured using advanced packaging technologies. The application of laboratory transmission X-ray microscopy in the hard X-ray regime is demonstrated for Cu/Cu₆Sn₅/Cu microbump interconnects fabricated using solid–liquid interdiffusion (SLID) bonding. Full article

This study explores innovative designs for the cap of a marker pen, aiming to address the issues of cap loss and ink evaporation during marker pen usage. This study applies intrinsic safety, universal design and TRIZ as research methods. TRIZ has great potential to address most of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) relevant to conflict-oriented problem solving for innovations. The principles of simplification, foolproof design, clarity of states, and tolerance from intrinsic safety were applied to prevent cap loss and minimize the risks associated with ink evaporation. The TRIZ methodology’s contradiction matrix was utilized to identify relevant inventive principles by improving parameters and avoiding worsening parameters, providing a reference basis for product structure design. Lastly, the principles of equitable use, simplicity, intuitiveness, and effortless design from universal design were employed to enhance the marker pen’s usability for the general public. This study creates a SERVQUAL questionnaire to compare the prototype of the designed pen cap with commercially available pen caps. It utilizes the two-dimensional quality model (Kano model) and Importance–Performance Analysis (IPA) for practical design analysis. Finally, the prototype structure is visualized using graphic software. The innovative design features of this study include the following. (1) Concealable pen tip: the sliding seal hides the pen tip inside the pen body when the pen core is slid upwards, preventing cap loss and ink drying. (2) Quick retractable function: using a pressing mechanism, the pen tip can be quickly retracted with a one-handed press and slide motion. (3) Replaceable pen core: the pen core can be replaced by disassembling the pen body, removing the old pen core, and inserting a new one, thereby extending the pen’s lifespan. (4) Satisfaction evaluation of the innovative pen cap design: through questionnaire surveys and cross-analysis using the IPA and the Kano model, this study assesses the product’s manufacturing and mass production value to reduce actual product development costs and time. Full article

With the development of a free trade port on Hainan Island, the construction of tourist roads around the island is currently underway. However, the weather conditions on Hainan Island, which include strong typhoons and rainstorms, pose challenges for the construction of highway-cutting slopes on the coastal weak sandy terraces. These slopes are susceptible to sand loss and erosion from rainfall. To address this issue, MICP green spray irrigation solidification technology is used to strengthen the sandy cutting, and pore water pressure monitoring is carried out on the slope model during MICP solidification and rainfall scour. Combined with the model pore water pressure and flow slip failure pattern, a dynamic analysis was conducted. The results show that MICP sprinkler irrigation technology can solidify the surface of the slope model in a short time, and after three sets of rotation reinforcement, the model achieved a cementation depth of 4 cm, with a well-reinforced surface and closely connected sand samples. Under the erosion effect of simulated rainfall intensity, the sand loss of the slope was weakened, without damage to the sand binding, and the integrity was enhanced. The cementation between the sand grains facilitated the conversion of most of the rainfall into runoff. However, despite these efforts, the slope eventually slid after 150 s. During the sliding process, the leading edge of the slope model lost sand and became unloaded, and the failure mode was graded a creep slip failure. Finally, the slope was divided into several blocks due to the continuous expansion of cracks following the slope failure. The erosion stability of the sandy slope under heavy rains was optimized and the sand loss was prevented effectively. This study proposes a new method of MICP remediation techniques that serve as a new test basis for the practical application of MICP technology in engineering projects. Full article

Although aluminum alloys are widely used in the automotive and aerospace industries due to their excellent strength-to-weight ratio and good corrosion resistance, the poor tribological performance and low compatibility of these materials with lubricant anti-wear and anti-friction additives in conventional mineral oils are major limitations. In addition, environmental awareness has increased the need for more environmentally friendly lubricants. Ionic Liquids (ILs) have exhibited significant potential as lubricants and lubricant additives. One of the more interesting properties of ILs is that they can form physically-adsorbed or chemically-reacted layers that reduce friction and wear of the surfaces in contact. Among ILs, Protic Ionic Liquids (PILs) have received more attention recently because of their simple and economic synthesis route. Furthermore, the anions and cations of PILs can be selected to be considered environmentally benign. In this article, the tribological behavior of a family of six PILs are studied as additives to a biodegradable oil (BO), under aluminum-steel contact. Al2024 disks slid against AISI52100 steel balls under a normal load of 3 N and a frequency of 5 Hz at room temperature and using a ball-on-flat reciprocating tribometer. PILs used in this study, were synthesized using two strong acids, with short and long hydrocarbon chains, and three weak bases with different propensities to hydrogen bonds. Results show that, although adding just 1 wt.% of any PIL to BO reduced friction and wear, the alkyl chain length influenced the lubricating ability of these ordered fluids. Wear mechanisms and surface interaction are discussed on the basis of 3D profilometry, SEM-EDX and RAMAN spectroscopy. Full article

Background: Patients with first-line drug resistance (DR) to rifampicin (RIF) or isoniazid (INH) as a first-line (FL) line probe assay (LPA) were subjected to genotypic DST using second-line (SL) LPA to identify SL-DR (including pre-XDR) under the National TB Elimination Program (NTEP), India. SL-DR patients were initiated on different DR-TB treatment regimens and monitored for their outcomes. The objective of this retrospective analysis was to understand the mutation profile and treatment outcomes of SL-DR patients. Materials and Methods: A retrospective analysis of mutation profile, treatment regimen, and treatment outcome was performed for SL-DR patients who were tested at ICMR-NIRT, Supra-National Reference Laboratory, Chennai between the years 2018 and 2020. All information, including patient demographics and treatment outcomes, was extracted from the NTEP Ni-kshay database. Results: Between 2018 and 2020, 217 patients out of 2557 samples tested were identified with SL-DR by SL-LPA. Among them, 158/217 were FQ-resistant, 34/217 were SLID-resistant, and 25/217 were resistant to both. D94G (Mut3C) of gyrA and a1401g of rrs were the most predominant mutations in the FQ and SLID resistance types, respectively. Favorable (cured and treatment complete) and unfavorable outcomes (died, lost to follow up, treatment failed, and treatment regimen changed) were recorded in a total of 82/217 and 68/217 patients in the NTEP Ni-kshay database. Conclusions: As per the testing algorithm, SL- LPA is used for genotypic DST following identification of first-line resistance, for early detection of SL-DR in India. The fluoroquinolone resistance pattern seen in this study population corelates with the global trend. Early detection of fluoroquinolone resistance and monitoring of treatment outcome can help achieve better patient management. Full article

The detection of an object slipping within the grasp of a prosthetic hand enables the hand to react to ensure the grasp is stable. The computer controller of a prosthetic hand needs to be able to unambiguously detect the slide from other signals. Slip can be detected from the surface vibrations made as the contact between object and terminal device shifts. A second method measures the changes in the normal and tangential forces between the object and the digits. After a review of the principles of how the signals are generated and the detection technologies are employed, this paper details the acoustic and force sensors used in versions of the Southampton Hand. Attention is given to the techniques used in the field. The performance of the Southampton tube sensor is explored. Different surfaces are slid past a sensor and the signals analysed. The resulting signals have low-frequency content. The signals are low pass filtered and the resulting processing results in a consistent response across a range of surfaces. These techniques are fast and not computationally intensive, which makes them practical for a device that is to be used daily in the field. Full article