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60 pages, 2063 KiB  
Systematic Review
Advancements in Antenna and Rectifier Systems for RF Energy Harvesting: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
by Luis Fernando Guerrero-Vásquez, Nathalia Alexandra Chacón-Reino, Segundo Darío Tenezaca-Angamarca, Paúl Andrés Chasi-Pesantez and Jorge Osmani Ordoñez-Ordoñez
Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(14), 7773; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15147773 - 10 Jul 2025
Viewed by 652
Abstract
This systematic review explores recent advancements in antenna and rectifier systems for radio frequency (RF) energy harvesting within the gigahertz frequency range, aiming to support the development of sustainable and efficient low-power electronic applications. Conducted under the PRISMA methodology, our review filtered 2465 [...] Read more.
This systematic review explores recent advancements in antenna and rectifier systems for radio frequency (RF) energy harvesting within the gigahertz frequency range, aiming to support the development of sustainable and efficient low-power electronic applications. Conducted under the PRISMA methodology, our review filtered 2465 initial records down to 80 relevant studies, addressing three research questions focused on antenna design, operating frequency bands, and rectifier configurations. Key variables such as antenna type, resonant frequency, gain, efficiency, bandwidth, and physical dimensions were examined. Antenna designs including fractal, spiral, bow-tie, slot, and rectangular structures were analyzed, with fractal antennas showing the highest efficiency, while array antennas exhibited lower performance despite their compact dimensions. Frequency band analysis indicated a predominance of 2.4 GHz and 5.8 GHz applications. Evaluation of substrate materials such as FR4, Rogers, RT Duroid, textiles, and unconventional composites highlighted their impact on performance optimization. Rectifier systems including Schottky, full-wave, half-wave, microwave, multi-step, and single-step designs were assessed, with Schottky rectifiers demonstrating the highest energy conversion efficiency. Additionally, correlation analyses using boxplots explored the relationships among antenna area, efficiency, operating frequency, and gain across design variables. The findings identify current trends and design considerations crucial for enhancing RF energy harvesting technologies. Full article
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19 pages, 7852 KiB  
Article
Formation of a Freezing Wall Around a Vertical Shaft Under Localized Freezing
by Yu Zhang, Yuhang Wang, Weihao Yang, Zhijiang Yang, Chi Zhang, Tao Han, Tingting Luo, Yongjie Ma and Cheng Zou
Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(13), 7144; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15137144 - 25 Jun 2025
Viewed by 214
Abstract
A localized freezing technique was proposed as an auxiliary method for retrofitting the lining of a vertical shaft. The influence of the freezing temperature, lining thickness, slot height, and slot duration on the evolution of the freezing wall in the clay layer was [...] Read more.
A localized freezing technique was proposed as an auxiliary method for retrofitting the lining of a vertical shaft. The influence of the freezing temperature, lining thickness, slot height, and slot duration on the evolution of the freezing wall in the clay layer was analyzed using a hydro-thermal numerical model. Under the baseline conditions (stratum temperature of 24 °C, shaft lining thickness of 2 m, and freezing temperature of −30 °C), the freezing wall behind the slotting zone was 0.74 m at 90 d, 1.89 m at 180 d, 2.78 m at 270 d, and 3.48 m at 360 d. The average growth rate of the freezing wall during one year was negatively linearly correlated with the freezing temperature and the shaft lining thickness, with change rates of −0.00033 m/(d∙°C) and −0.00262 m/(d∙m), respectively. Using the thickness of the freezing wall behind the slotting zone to reach 1.2 m as the slotting criterion, a freezing duration of 123 days is required under typical operational parameters. The evolution of the freezing wall was simulated for a slotting duration of 15 d with a slot height of 0.5–2.0 m and for a slot height of 1.5 m with a slotting duration of 5–20 d. The freezing walls did not melt in both schemes and expanded outward. The research findings are significant for improving freezing methods for shaft linings. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Civil Engineering)
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19 pages, 8785 KiB  
Article
Design of a 5G MIMO Mobile Intelligent Terminal Antenna with Metasurface Loading
by He Xia, Heming Fan, Zhulin Liu, Hongxiang Miao and Zhiwei Song
Sensors 2025, 25(9), 2927; https://doi.org/10.3390/s25092927 - 6 May 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 573
Abstract
To achieve multi-band coverage within limited space, reduce antenna types, and enhance communication capabilities, an eight-unit dual-band 5G MIMO antenna array is proposed based on a monopole structure. The antenna operates in two frequency bands (3.23–4.14 GHz and 4.31–5.3 GHz), covering the n78 [...] Read more.
To achieve multi-band coverage within limited space, reduce antenna types, and enhance communication capabilities, an eight-unit dual-band 5G MIMO antenna array is proposed based on a monopole structure. The antenna operates in two frequency bands (3.23–4.14 GHz and 4.31–5.3 GHz), covering the n78 and n79 bands for 5G applications. The dual-band and miniaturized design of the antenna elements is achieved through the slotting and branch-loading techniques. The orthogonal placement of corner antenna elements is implemented to reduce coupling and optimize spatial utilization, achieving isolation of over 16 dB between elements. The introduction of a metasurface structure further improved isolation by 2 dB and increased the peak gain of the antenna array to 11.95 dBi. A prototype is fabricated and tested, demonstrating the following performance metrics: isolation exceeding 18 dB, gain ranging from 6 to 12 dBi, envelope correlation coefficient below 0.05, channel capacity greater than 41 bps/Hz, diversity gain of approximately 10 dB, total active reflection coefficient below −24 dB, and radiation efficiency exceeding 72%. These results confirm the superior performance of the proposed antenna design. Full article
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23 pages, 5906 KiB  
Article
Design and Performance Assessment of Biocompatible Capacitive Pressure Sensors with Circular and Square Geometries Using ANSYS Workbench
by Md Shams Tabraiz Alam, Shabana Urooj, Abdul Quaiyum Ansari and Areiba Arif
Sensors 2025, 25(8), 2423; https://doi.org/10.3390/s25082423 - 11 Apr 2025
Viewed by 2431
Abstract
This research outlines the design of capacitive pressure sensors fabricated from three biocompatible materials, featuring both circular and square geometries. The sensors were structured with a dielectric layer positioned between gold-plated electrodes at the top and bottom. Their performance was assessed through simulations [...] Read more.
This research outlines the design of capacitive pressure sensors fabricated from three biocompatible materials, featuring both circular and square geometries. The sensors were structured with a dielectric layer positioned between gold-plated electrodes at the top and bottom. Their performance was assessed through simulations conducted with ANSYS Workbench. Of the various sensor configurations tested, the circular design that included two crescent-shaped slots and a 20 µm thick PDMS dielectric material demonstrated the highest sensitivity of 10.68 fF/mmHg. This study further investigated the relationship between resonant frequency shifts and arterial blood pressure, revealing an exceptionally linear response, as evidenced by a Pearson’s correlation coefficient of −0.99986 and an R-squared value of 0.99972. This confirmed the sensor’s applicability for obtaining precise blood pressure measurements. Additionally, a 3 × 30 mm cobalt–chromium (Co-Cr) stent was obtained, and its inductance was measured using an impedance analyzer. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in E-health, Biomedical Sensing, Biosensing Applications)
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19 pages, 4538 KiB  
Article
Design and Test of the Outside-Filling Chinese Chive Adjustable-Capacity Precision Seed-Metering Device
by Guoqiang Dun, Yuhan Wei, Xinxin Ji, Shang Gao, Yingyi Pei, Yang He and Chao Ma
Agronomy 2025, 15(3), 622; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15030622 - 28 Feb 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 574
Abstract
In order to innovate the planting mode and improve the quality of Chinese chive, we designed an outside-filling Chinese chive adjustable-capacity precision seed-metering device with an adjustable number of sown seeds. The diameter, number of shaped holes, and seed slot parameters of the [...] Read more.
In order to innovate the planting mode and improve the quality of Chinese chive, we designed an outside-filling Chinese chive adjustable-capacity precision seed-metering device with an adjustable number of sown seeds. The diameter, number of shaped holes, and seed slot parameters of the seeding plate were designed based on the physical characteristics and agronomic planting requirements of the Haoji Chinese chive. A simulation of the seed-metering device’s seeding process was carried out using EDEM software. To carry out the quadratic general rotary combination design experiment, use seed slot diameter and seed slot depth as test factors, longitudinal concentration and transverse concentration as evaluation indexes, and carry out the bench validation test and comparison test under the optimal parameter combination. In the simulation test, the factors affecting the longitudinal concentration in order of priority were seed slot depth and seed slot diameter, and the factors affecting the transverse concentration in order of priority were seed slot diameter and seed slot depth. The optimal parameters were seed slot diameter of 3.075 mm, seed slot depth of 3.323 mm, longitudinal concentration of 0.563, and transverse concentration of 0.634. In the bench test, the relative error of longitudinal concentration was 3.20%, the relative error of transverse concentration was 2.47%, and the number of seeds sown per hole was linearly correlated with the length of the seed slot. The results of the bench test and simulation test are close to each other, which proves that the outside-filling Chinese chive adjustable-capacity precision seed-metering device has a better sowing effect, and the number of sowing grains can be adjusted. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Farming Sustainability)
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16 pages, 9256 KiB  
Article
A Novel Design of Dual-Band Circularly Polarized Microstrip Patch Antenna for Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Applications
by Abdulaziz S. Almehmadi and Rabah W. Aldhaheri
Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(4), 1816; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15041816 - 10 Feb 2025
Viewed by 1568
Abstract
This article presents a new design for a dual-band circular polarization microstrip patch antenna that can be used in unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) applications. The proposed antenna consists of an etched circular shape on the radiator side of the antenna with multiple slots [...] Read more.
This article presents a new design for a dual-band circular polarization microstrip patch antenna that can be used in unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) applications. The proposed antenna consists of an etched circular shape on the radiator side of the antenna with multiple slots and stubs. The bottom side comprises a partial ground plane with multiple horizonal, vertical and square slots. These shapes on the front and bottom sides of the antenna are used to keep the resonant frequencies, impedance bandwidth and axial ratio (AR) at the desired values. The antenna operation is within the WiFi frequency bands, achieving maximum gains of 5.01 and 5.27 dBi at 2.4 and 5 GHz, respectively. Circular polarization (CP) is effectively realized through the implementation of opposite truncated corners and intentionally located stubs. The 3 dB axial ratio bandwidth (ARBW) is significantly enhanced, while a defected ground structure (DGS) is utilized to further improve the bandwidth and gain. The optimized antenna has overall dimensions of 40 × 40 × 1.6 mm3 and demonstrates a wide −10 dB reflection bandwidth of 5.38% (2.396–2.525 GHz) and 9.26% (4.91–5.38 GHz), along with a broad 3 dB axial ratio bandwidth (ARBW) of 380 MHz (2.29–2.67 GHz) and 80 MHz (5–5.08 GHz). The proposed antenna is fabricated using a low-cost FR-4 substrate with a dielectric constant of 4.4 and a loss tangent of 0.02. The fabricated antenna is experimentally characterized to verify the design concept as well as to validate the simulation results. It is found that the experimental measurements correlate very well with the simulation results. A comparison with comparable designs in the literature shows that the proposed antenna provides a higher gain with a relatively reduced size. Full article
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22 pages, 8673 KiB  
Article
A Dual-Polarized and Broadband Multiple-Antenna System for 5G Cellular Communications
by Haleh Jahanbakhsh Basherlou, Naser Ojaroudi Parchin and Chan Hwang See
Sensors 2025, 25(4), 1032; https://doi.org/10.3390/s25041032 - 9 Feb 2025
Viewed by 1370
Abstract
This study presents a new multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) antenna array system designed for sub-6 GHz fifth generation (5G) cellular applications. The design features eight compact trapezoid slot elements with L-shaped CPW (Coplanar Waveguide) feedlines, providing broad bandwidth and radiation/polarization diversity. The antenna elements [...] Read more.
This study presents a new multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) antenna array system designed for sub-6 GHz fifth generation (5G) cellular applications. The design features eight compact trapezoid slot elements with L-shaped CPW (Coplanar Waveguide) feedlines, providing broad bandwidth and radiation/polarization diversity. The antenna elements are compact in size and function within the frequency spectrum spanning from 3.2 to 6 GHz. They have been strategically positioned at the peripheral corners of the smartphone mainboard, resulting in a compact overall footprint of 75 mm × 150 mm FR4. Within this design framework, there are four pairs of antennas, each aligned to offer both horizontal and vertical polarization options. In addition, despite the absence of decoupling structures, the adjacent elements in the array exhibit high isolation. The array demonstrates a good bandwidth of 2800 MHz, essential for 5G applications requiring high data rates and reliable connectivity, high radiation efficiency, and dual-polarized/full-coverage radiation. Furthermore, it achieves low ECC (Envelope Correlation Coefficient) and TARC (Total Active Reflection Coefficient) values, measuring better than 0.005 and −20 dB, respectively. With its compact and planar configuration, quite broad bandwidth, acceptable SAR (Specific Absorption Rate) and excellent radiation characteristics, this suggested MIMO antenna array design shows good promise for integration into 5G hand-portable devices. Furthermore, a compact phased-array millimeter-wave (mmWave) antenna with broad bandwidth is introduced as a proof of concept for higher frequency antenna integration. This design underscores the potential to support future 5G and 6G applications, enabling advanced connectivity in smartphones. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antenna Design and Optimization for 5G, 6G, and IoT)
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9 pages, 3396 KiB  
Proceeding Paper
Development and Implementation of Modular Turning Dynamometer with Miniature Load Cell
by Naruebet Khammongkhon, Phanuwat Niropas, Chanikan Pomusa and Bandit Suksawat
Eng. Proc. 2025, 84(1), 43; https://doi.org/10.3390/engproc2025084043 - 7 Feb 2025
Viewed by 529
Abstract
This study presents the design, development, and implementation of a novel modular three-axis cutting force measurement system for turning lathes. The system employs miniature load cells in an innovative two-channel slotted dynamometer structure, offering a cost-effective and compact alternative to conventional dynamometers. The [...] Read more.
This study presents the design, development, and implementation of a novel modular three-axis cutting force measurement system for turning lathes. The system employs miniature load cells in an innovative two-channel slotted dynamometer structure, offering a cost-effective and compact alternative to conventional dynamometers. The primary structure utilizes a cantilever concept, in which cutting forces induce deformation, compressing strategically positioned load cells. A 300 kgf load cell measures the main cutting force, while a 100 kgf load cell detects the feed force. Additionally, a 20 kgf load cell measures the radial force through a sliding tool holder mechanism. Finite element analysis was employed to optimize the dynamometer’s parameters, striking a balance between maximum deflection and structural integrity. The optimized design achieved a safety factor of 4.377, with maximum deflections of 8.81 µm and 9.89 µm for the main cutting and feed force measurements, respectively. Static calibration of the load cells demonstrated robust correlations between voltage and force, with the coefficient of determination (R2) values exceeding 0.999. The system’s precision was evaluated through cutting experiments on mild steel of varying depths (0.5, 0.75, 1.0 mm) and feed rates (0.105, 0.150, 0.210 mm/rev). The experimental results indicate that the main cutting force consistently exceeded feed and radial forces across all conditions. The system exhibited high precision, with relative standard deviation (RSD) percentages below 5% on average and not exceeding 7.5% in individual experiments. This modular dynamometer design offers a flexible, precise, and cost-effective solution for cutting force measurement in turning operations. Its modularity facilitates easy maintenance and adaptation to various cutting conditions, rendering the developed modular turning dynamometer suitable for both research and industrial applications. Full article
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36 pages, 55356 KiB  
Article
High-Gain Miniaturized Multi-Band MIMO SSPP LWA for Vehicular Communications
by Tale Saeidi, Sahar Saleh, Nick Timmons, Christopher McDaid, Ahmed Jamal Abdullah Al-Gburi, Faroq Razzaz and Saeid Karamzadeh
Technologies 2025, 13(2), 66; https://doi.org/10.3390/technologies13020066 - 4 Feb 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1652
Abstract
This paper introduces a novel miniaturized, four-mode, semi-flexible leaky wave Multiple-Input Multiple-Output (MIMO) antenna specifically designed to advance vehicular communication systems. The proposed antenna addresses key challenges in 5G low- and high-frequency bands, including millimeter-wave communication, by integrating innovative features such as a [...] Read more.
This paper introduces a novel miniaturized, four-mode, semi-flexible leaky wave Multiple-Input Multiple-Output (MIMO) antenna specifically designed to advance vehicular communication systems. The proposed antenna addresses key challenges in 5G low- and high-frequency bands, including millimeter-wave communication, by integrating innovative features such as a periodic Spoof Surface Plasmon Polariton Transmission Line (SSPP-TL) and logarithmic-spiral-like semi-circular strip patches parasitically fed via orthogonal ports. These design elements facilitate stable impedance matching and wide impedance bandwidths across operating bands, which is essential for vehicular networks. The hybrid combination of leaky wave and SSPP structures, along with a defected wide-slot ground structure and backside meander lines, enhances radiation characteristics by reducing back and bidirectional radiation. Additionally, a naturalization network incorporating chamfered-edge meander lines minimizes mutual coupling and introduces a fourth radiation mode at 80 GHz. Compact in size (14 × 12 × 0.25 mm3), the antenna achieves high-performance metrics, including S11 < −18.34 dB, dual-polarization, peak directive gains of 11.6 dBi (free space) and 14.6 dBi (on vehicles), isolation > 27 dB, Channel Capacity Loss (CCL) < 3, Envelope Correlation Coefficient (ECC) < 0.001, axial ratio < 2.25, and diversity gain (DG) > 9.85 dB. Extensive testing across various vehicular scenarios confirms the antenna’s robustness for Vehicle-to-Vehicle (V2V), Vehicle-to-Pedestrian (V2P), and Vehicle-to-Infrastructure (V2I) communication. Its exceptional performance ensures seamless connectivity with mobile networks and enhances safety through Specific Absorption Rate (SAR) compliance. This compact, high-performance antenna is a transformative solution for connected and autonomous vehicles, addressing critical challenges in modern automotive communication networks and paving the way for reliable and efficient vehicular communication systems. Full article
(This article belongs to the Collection Electrical Technologies)
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17 pages, 11569 KiB  
Article
Numerical Investigation of Heat Transfer and Flow Dynamics in Tubes with DNA-Inspired Slotted Inserts
by Penglong Zhu, Guoxiu Sun, Ruimeng Liu, Sicong Zhou, Baisong Hu and Shaofeng Zhang
Energies 2025, 18(2), 376; https://doi.org/10.3390/en18020376 - 16 Jan 2025
Viewed by 833
Abstract
Within the realm of industrial energy conservation, the optimization of heat exchanger performance is paramount for the augmentation of energy utilization efficiency. This investigation employs computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations to elucidate the effects of an innovative DNA-Inspired Slotted Insert (DSI) on the [...] Read more.
Within the realm of industrial energy conservation, the optimization of heat exchanger performance is paramount for the augmentation of energy utilization efficiency. This investigation employs computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations to elucidate the effects of an innovative DNA-Inspired Slotted Insert (DSI) on the convective heat transfer and pressure drop characteristics within heat exchange tubes. The study provides a thorough analysis of fully turbulent flow (Re = 6600–17,200), examining the effects of various DSI pitches, key lengths, and geometries. The findings reveal that the DSI instigates a three-dimensional spiral flow pattern, which is accompanied by an escalation in the Nusselt number (Nu) and friction factor (f) with increasing Reynolds numbers. An inverse relationship between Nu and both pitch and key length is observed; conversely, f exhibits a direct correlation with these parameters. The study identifies an optimal configuration characterized by a pitch of 10 mm and a key length of 1.5 mm, with square keys demonstrating superior heat transfer performance relative to other geometrical configurations. This research contributes significant design and application insights for double-helical inserts, which are pivotal for the enhancement of heat exchanger efficiency. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section J1: Heat and Mass Transfer)
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18 pages, 861 KiB  
Article
A Collision Avoidance MAC Protocol with Power Control for Adaptive Clustering Underwater Sensor Networks
by Libin Xue, Hong Lei and Rongxin Zhu
J. Mar. Sci. Eng. 2025, 13(1), 76; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse13010076 - 4 Jan 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 941
Abstract
Underwater sensor networks (UWSNs) play a vital role in marine exploration and environmental monitoring. However, due to the characteristics of underwater acoustic channels such as high delay, low bandwidth, and energy limitation, the design of an underwater media access control (MAC) protocol has [...] Read more.
Underwater sensor networks (UWSNs) play a vital role in marine exploration and environmental monitoring. However, due to the characteristics of underwater acoustic channels such as high delay, low bandwidth, and energy limitation, the design of an underwater media access control (MAC) protocol has brought great challenges, and existing MAC protocol designs rarely consider the influence of channel interference factors in networking. Therefore, this paper proposes a collision avoidance MAC protocol for clustering underwater sensor networks. The protocol first classifies users by combining the channel characteristics of underwater nodes and the distance measurement between nodes. Then, based on the clustering network, according to the channel correlation distance measurement between nodes and the communication range of the cluster head (CH), the transmit power in clusters is controlled to reduce the lifetime of the network based on the cumulative reduction in node power consumption. Finally, the cluster structure in each cluster is used to schedule the transmission of member nodes in the cluster, and at the same time, the energy consumption of nodes is reduced while multi-node collision-free transmission is realized. The simulation results show that the throughput of the proposed adaptive power control clustering MAC protocol (APCC-MAC) is 26.5% and 19.5% higher than that of packet-level slot scheduling (PLSS) algorithm and Cluster-Based Spatial–Temporal Scheduling (CSS) algorithm, respectively, providing better communication performance and stability for clustered underwater acoustic networks. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Intelligent Approaches to Marine Engineering Research)
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16 pages, 2497 KiB  
Article
Expression Levels of MUC5AC and MUC5B in Airway Goblet Cells Are Associated with Traits of COPD and Progression of Chronic Airflow Limitation
by Terezia Pincikova, Heta Merikallio, Ioanna Kotortsi, Reza Karimi, Chuan-Xing Li, Elisa Lappi-Blanco, Sara K. Lindén, Médea Padra, Åsa M. Wheelock, Sven Nyrén, Carl Magnus Sköld and Riitta L. Kaarteenaho
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(24), 13653; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms252413653 - 20 Dec 2024
Viewed by 2576
Abstract
Mucins 5AC (MUC5AC) and 5B (MUC5B) are the major mucins providing the organizing framework for the airway’s mucus gel. We retrieved bronchial mucosal biopsies and bronchial wash (BW) samples through bronchoscopy from patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (n = 38), healthy [...] Read more.
Mucins 5AC (MUC5AC) and 5B (MUC5B) are the major mucins providing the organizing framework for the airway’s mucus gel. We retrieved bronchial mucosal biopsies and bronchial wash (BW) samples through bronchoscopy from patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (n = 38), healthy never-smokers (n = 40), and smokers with normal lung function (n = 40). The expression of MUC5AC and MUC5B was assessed immunohistochemically. The mucin concentrations in BW were determined using the slot-blot technique. The immunohistochemical expression of MUC5AC and MUC5B was localized to goblet cells and submucosal glands. Smokers had higher MUC5AC and lower MUC5B goblet cell expression and higher concentrations of soluble MUC5AC in BW than never-smokers. The MUC5B expression in goblet cells correlated positively with expiratory air flows, diffusing capacity, and the dyspnoea score. Chronic bronchitis, emphysema, and the progression of chronic airflow limitation during a median follow-up time of 8.4 years were associated with higher MUC5AC and lower MUC5B expression in goblet cells. Sustainers, slow progressors, and rapid progressors of airflow obstruction differed in their MUC5B expression at baseline. Emphysema and bronchial wall thickening on CT at a follow-up visit were associated with lower MUC5B expression at baseline. Our findings strengthen the hypothesis that MUC5AC and MUC5B are yet another contributing factor to smoking-associated lung disease progression. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biomarkers of Lung Disorders)
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16 pages, 3435 KiB  
Article
Ultrasound Corrosion Mapping on Hot Stainless Steel Surfaces
by Jan Lean Tai, Mohamed Thariq Hameed Sultan, Farah Syazwani Shahar, Andrzej Łukaszewicz, Zbigniew Oksiuta and Rafał Grzejda
Metals 2024, 14(12), 1425; https://doi.org/10.3390/met14121425 - 12 Dec 2024
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1041
Abstract
This study investigates the application of Phased Array Corrosion Mapping (PACM) as a non-destructive testing (NDT) method for detecting and monitoring corrosion growth on hot stainless steel (SS) surfaces, specifically focusing on SS 304 and SS 316. Conducted across a temperature range of [...] Read more.
This study investigates the application of Phased Array Corrosion Mapping (PACM) as a non-destructive testing (NDT) method for detecting and monitoring corrosion growth on hot stainless steel (SS) surfaces, specifically focusing on SS 304 and SS 316. Conducted across a temperature range of 30 °C to 250 °C, the research evaluates the effectiveness of PACM in high-temperature environments typical of the petrochemical industry. Experiments were conducted using specimens with machined slots and flat-bottom holes (FBHs) to simulate corrosion defects. The results demonstrate that PACM effectively detects and maps corrosion indicators, with color-coded C-scan data facilitating easy interpretation. Temperature variations significantly influenced ultrasound signal characteristics, leading to observable changes in FBH indications, particularly at elevated temperatures. Increased ultrasound attenuation necessitated adjustments in decibel settings to maintain accuracy. SS 304 and SS 316 exhibited distinct responses to temperature changes, with SS 316 showing higher dB values and unique signal behaviors, including increased scattering and noise echoes at elevated temperatures. Detected depths for slots and FBHs correlated closely with designed depths, with deviations generally less than 0.5 mm; however, some instances showed deviations exceeding 2 mm, underscoring the need for careful interpretation. At temperatures above 230 °C, the disbanding of probe elements led to weak or absent signals, complicating data interpretation and requiring adjustments in testing protocols. This study highlights the feasibility and effectiveness of PACM for corrosion detection on hot SS surfaces, providing critical insights into material behavior under thermal conditions. Future research should include physical examination of samples using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) to validate and enhance the reliability of the findings. The integration of non-contact NDT methods and optimization of calibration techniques are essential for improving PACM performance at elevated temperatures. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Corrosion and Protection)
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16 pages, 3277 KiB  
Article
Proximal Absorbance Calibration Method Using an Embedded Blank Reference RGB Sensor for Determination of Ion Concentrations
by Jung-Kyu Lee, Ye-Hun Lee and Dong-Hoon Lee
Agriculture 2024, 14(12), 2171; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture14122171 - 28 Nov 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 725
Abstract
Accurate analyses and management of ion concentrations are crucial in precision agriculture. Modern technology-based methods are non-destructive and do not require sample preparation, enabling fast and accurate analysis; however, they have limitations when processing multiple samples. In this study, a multi-ion analysis system [...] Read more.
Accurate analyses and management of ion concentrations are crucial in precision agriculture. Modern technology-based methods are non-destructive and do not require sample preparation, enabling fast and accurate analysis; however, they have limitations when processing multiple samples. In this study, a multi-ion analysis system was developed for the prompt and accurate analysis of concentrations of important ions such as NO3, HnPO4, K+, Ca2+, and Mg2+. The RGB sensitivity control was automated through calibrations by applying a reference slot-based error rate across six slots between sample measurements, facilitating sample-to-sample comparisons and enabling accurate concentration analysis. By analyzing the correlation between each ion concentration and the proximal absorbance-based concentration prediction in the simultaneous analysis system, the accuracy was verified by achieving a coefficient of determination exceeding 0.99 for most ions. This system minimizes possible deviations between slots by using an automatic calibration algorithm, thereby facilitating the simultaneous analysis of multiple samples. This is important for saving time and cost and can help in real-time nutrient analysis and monitoring in agriculture. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Soil–Machine Systems and Related Farming Machinery)
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10 pages, 3597 KiB  
Proceeding Paper
A Tool for Improved Monitoring of Acoustic Beacons and Receivers of the KM3NeT Neutrino Telescope
by Letizia Stella Di Mauro, Dídac Diego-Tortosa, Giorgio Riccobene and Salvatore Viola
Eng. Proc. 2024, 82(1), 77; https://doi.org/10.3390/ecsa-11-20490 - 26 Nov 2024
Viewed by 337
Abstract
KM3NeT is an underwater neutrino detector currently under construction. Since the installation of its first detection unit in 2015, it has been continuously collecting data. Due to its complex design comprising a 3D array of sensors, an Acoustic Positioning System (APS) has been [...] Read more.
KM3NeT is an underwater neutrino detector currently under construction. Since the installation of its first detection unit in 2015, it has been continuously collecting data. Due to its complex design comprising a 3D array of sensors, an Acoustic Positioning System (APS) has been developed to monitor the position of each sensor. Given the increasing number of acoustic sensors used for the APS, both receivers and emitters, a solution has been implemented to check their status. In this contribution, a monitoring tool for this instrumentation is presented, capable of evaluating its status at both the data and operational levels. For effective monitoring, it is crucial to associate the signal recorded by a receiver with the corresponding transmitter. The Acoustic Data Filter (ADF) performs a cross-correlation between the signals retained in a buffer and those emitted by each installed emitter. It saves the maximum peak value and its associated time of arrival for each expected signal. However, the growing number of beacons complicates the differentiation of corresponding transmitters due to the huge amount of data recorded by the ADF needing post-processing. To address this challenge, a monitoring tool is developed that analyzes the internal clock of each emitter to distinguish and filter the data collected by the ADF. This tool has proven to be highly effective at verifying the correct operation of all acoustic devices deployed at sea. The acoustic monitoring graphical output produced for each data slot facilitates quick failure detection, enabling a swift response. Last but not least, the tool is modular and scalable, adapting to the addition or removal of sensors from the detector. Full article
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