Advances In Engineering Research Articles

Collision theory and membrane photocatalysis: Steroid hormones meet singlet oxygen in palladium-porphyrin-coated polytetrafluoroethylene membranes

Photocatalytic membrane (PCM) reactors are an emerging technology for the continuous elimination of micropollutants from water. PCM materials and process properties define performance limitations. A collision theory framework was established to elucidate the limiting factors of steroid hormone micropollutant photodegradation inside the pores (200 nm) of a palladium-porphyrin-coated polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) PCM under simulated sunlight. The collision theory can describe the degree of photodegradation of 17β-estradiol (E2). The production of singlet oxygen reactive species was limited by light intensity (up to 14 mW cm−2), porphyrin loading (up to 50 μmol/L), and membrane layer thickness (46 μm, achieved via stacking thin membranes). Further increases in these parameters did not significantly enhance the removal of E2, because the quantity of singlet oxygen generated, and consequently the collision frequency, levelled off. Not all collisions result in photodegradation reaction. By reducing the reaction time via increasing the E2 molar flux, the rate of disappearance reached a threshold of 7 ± 2 nmol/L s−1. This is identified as the maximum effective collision frequency, implying that 11 % of the total collisions (64 ± 5 nmol/L s−1) resulted in successful reaction. The study presents a novel framework based on collision theory to predict the fundamental mechanisms of and limitations to photodegradation in porphyrin-PTFE membranes, providing unprecedented insight into the performance limitations of diverse membrane reactors for advances in materials and process engineering.

Ontology-assisted GPT-based building performance simulation and assessment: Implementation of multizone airflow simulation

Building performance simulation (BPS) is crucial for building performance assessments across its lifecycle. However, the complexity of buildings and the iterative nature of simulation poses challenges, leading to high costs and low values. Previous studies focused on simplification, but did not fully utilize advanced simulation engines. Despite recent advancements, there is a lack of research on leveraging artificial intelligence (AI), specifically generative pre-trained transformer (GPT), for BPS. Therefore, this study proposes a GPT-based BPS system, enhancing simulation efficiency and value by integrating simulation engines and advanced data analytics in the GPT environment. The ontology for GPT-based BPS is also developed to enable comprehensive, reliable, informative BPS environments. Based on this framework, case studies were conducted for GPT-based multizone airflow network simulation in a high-rise residential building using CONTAM software. They demonstrate GPT’s capabilities in retrieving simulation data, visualizing results with data mining, answering questions based on building knowledge, checking compliance with design guidelines, and proposing design alternatives. Finally, this study emphasizes expert interventions with ontological engineering informatics to utilize strictly structured BPS engines.

Impacts of low-temperature heat release on unstretched laminar burning velocity in advanced flex-fuel gasoline-ethanol engines

Improving brake thermal efficiency (BTE) of flex-fuel engines can contribute to decarbonizing conventional and hybridized vehicles running on spark-ignited (SI) engines. High compression ratio (CR) and burning velocity under exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) conditions can improve the engine BTE. Ethanol fuel, which has been attracting increasing attention recently, can improve brake thermal efficiency due to its high-octane number and fast laminar burning velocity (LBV). With higher CRs, low-temperature heat release (LTHR) occurs in the unburned mixture, which affects the compositions, oxidation, and in-cylinder temperature. Such thermodynamic changes on unstretched LBV have not been thoroughly investigated, especially in production-intent next-generation flex-fuel engines. This study aims to clarify the LTHR impacts on LBV under EGR conditions using ethanol-blended gasoline surrogate fuels. The testbed used a single-cylinder SI engine fueled by E0 (gasoline surrogate), E20 (20 % ethanol + 80 % E0 by volume), E40, E60, E85, and E100. Detailed chemical reaction calculations were conducted using the boundary conditions obtained from production-intent, strong-tumble flow, and flex-fuel engine experiments. This work predicted LTHR in an unburned mixture using a zero-dimensional detailed chemical reaction calculation. LBV is predicted by a 1D kinetic laminar flame code. As a result, LTHR proceeds before the main combustion. The results show that the temperature increase associated with LTHR increases the burning velocity, while the partial oxidants decrease the burning velocity. Moreover, this work examined higher CRs using detailed chemical reaction calculations, and the results show that fuels with higher ethanol blending ratios can increase LBV in the late combustion phase.

Adiabatic Shear Localization in Metallic Materials: Review

In advanced engineering applications, there has been an increasing demand for the service performance of materials under high-strain-rate conditions where a key phenomenon of adiabatic shear instability is inevitably involved. The presence of adiabatic shear instability is typically associated with large shear strains, high strain rates, and elevated temperatures. Significant plastic deformation that concentrates within a adiabatic shear band (ASB) often results in catastrophic failure, and it is necessary to avoid the occurrence of such a phenomenon in most areas. However, in certain areas, such as high-speed machining and self-sharpening projectile penetration, this phenomenon can be exploited. The thermal softening effect and microstructural softening effect are widely recognized as the foundational theories for the formation of ASB. Thus, elucidating various complex deformation mechanisms under thermomechanical coupling along with changes in temperatures in the shear instability process has become a focal point of research. This review highlights these two important aspects and examines the development of relevant theories and experimental results, identifying key challenges faced in this field of study. Furthermore, advancements in modern experimental characterization and computational technologies, which lead to a deeper understanding of the adiabatic shear instability phenomenon, have also been summarized.

The Role of Cartilage Tissue Engineering in Osteoarthritis Treatment: The Bench to Bedside Translation

ABSTRACTCartilage tissue engineering holds huge promise for joint defects and osteoarthritis (OA) conditions which otherwise have limited treatment options due to cartilage's inherent inability to self‐repair. Chemical cues play a pivotal role in regulating chondrocyte behavior and matrix synthesis. Strategies utilizing growth factors, small molecules, and biomaterial‐based delivery systems aim to modulate chondrogenic differentiation, proliferation, and matrix deposition, while recent insights emphasize the significance of mimicking native tissue gradients for optimal regeneration outcomes. Mechanical stimuli profoundly influence chondrocyte phenotype and function, necessitating precise control of the mechanical microenvironment in tissue engineering strategies. Advances in biomaterial design, scaffold fabrication, and bioreactor systems facilitate the tailored modulation of mechanical cues, including substrate stiffness, topography, and dynamic loading regimes. This review showcases the latest advancements in engineering both the chemical and mechanical microenvironment to enhance chondrocyte regeneration. Furthermore, exploring the synergistic effects of combining chemical and mechanical cues underscores the importance of multifaceted approaches in promoting robust chondrocyte regeneration. The review also addresses challenges and future directions in the field, such as achieving spatially organized tissue architecture and integrating patient‐specific factors, to propel advancements in cartilage tissue engineering. We also conducted a comprehensive enlistment for the clinical trials and tissue engineering‐based marketed products for OA therapy.

Comparative Review of the Microstructural and Mechanical Properties of Ti-6Al-4V Fabricated via Wrought and Powder Metallurgy Processes

This review examines the microstructural and mechanical properties of a Ti-6Al-4V alloy produced by wrought processing and powder metallurgy (PM), specifically laser powder bed fusion (LPBF) and hot isostatic pressing. Wrought methods, such as forging and rolling, create equiaxed alpha (α) and beta (β) grain structures with balanced properties, which are ideal for fatigue resistance. In contrast, PM methods, particularly LPBF, often yield a martensitic α′ structure with high microhardness, enabling complex geometries but requiring post-processing to improve its properties and reduce stress. The study evaluated the effects of processing parameters on grain size, phase distribution, and material characteristics, guiding the choice of fabrication techniques for optimizing Ti-6Al-4V performance in aerospace, biomedical, and automotive applications. The analysis emphasizes tailored processing to meet advanced engineering demands.

Efficacy of jute-glass hybrid laminate composite wrapping under flexural loading

The demand for sustainable engineering materials has catalyzed interest in hybrid composites that combine natural fibers like jute with synthetic fibers such as E-glass. This study investigates the flexural strength of jute/E-glass/epoxy hybrid composite laminates under different stacking sequences, employing the ANOVA method to analyze their mechanical performance. The materials, including jute fabric, E-glass fabric, and epoxy resin, were arranged in various configurations and tested for flexural strength following ASTM D790 standards. The results indicated significant variability, with the GJGJ configuration exhibiting the highest average flexural strength of 71.20 MPa, while the GJG configuration had the lowest at 26.33 MPa. The ANOVA analysis confirmed a statistically significant effect of laminate configuration on flexural strength (F = 6.41, p = 0.004). These findings underscore the critical role of laminate arrangement in enhancing the mechanical properties of hybrid composites. The superior performance of the GJGJ configuration suggests that alternating layers of jute and E-glass fibers can effectively distribute stress and enhance load-bearing capacity. Conversely, suboptimal configurations like GJG demonstrated lower performance, highlighting the importance of strategic fiber arrangement. This research contributes to the development of optimized hybrid composites for various engineering applications, providing valuable insights into the interplay between natural and synthetic fibers within a composite matrix. The study's conclusions support the broader use of hybrid composites in industries such as automotive, construction, and aerospace, where material sustainability and performance are paramount. Future research should explore further optimization of stacking sequences and volume fractions of fibers, as well as investigate other mechanical properties such as tensile and impact strength, to fully realize the potential of hybrid composites in advanced engineering applications

CRISPR System and Its Applications in Medicine and Stem Cell Engineering

Context: The clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeat (CRISPR)/Cas system is a groundbreaking gene-editing tool that shows great promise for modifying genomes. Derived from prokaryotic adaptive immune defense mechanisms, this technique has been used in research on human diseases, demonstrating remarkable therapeutic potential. Through CRISPR, specific genetic mutations in patients can be corrected during gene therapy, offering a solution for treating diseases that were previously untreatable using conventional methods. This review explores the recent progress and future prospects of the CRISPR system, focusing on its applications in medicine and stem cell engineering. Special emphasis is placed on medical applications, the latest target design or analysis tools for genome editing, advancements in stem cell engineering, and associated innovations and challenges. Evidence Acquisition: This study reviewed articles indexed in ISI, SID, PubMed, and PubMed Central from 2007 to 2024. Results: Cas9, a key protein in CRISPR gene editing, is an endonuclease capable of targeting and cutting specific DNA sequences, guided by short RNA sequences. The gene editing process involves homology-directed repair (HDR), non-homologous end joining (NHEJ), and base editing pathways. Base editing, which modifies the epigenome without inducing DNA breaks, is gaining increasing attention. However, CRISPR still faces technical challenges, and the development of more efficient "super" CRISPR technology will likely require time. This article reviews the effectiveness, limitations, and applications of the CRISPR system. Conclusions: CRISPR/Cas9 tools allow for the creation of precise models, leading to more effective treatment options for patients.

Nanoscale engineering of semiconductor photocatalysts boosting charge separation for solar-driven H2 production: Recent advances and future perspective

Abstract Photocatalytic hydrogen (H₂) production is regarded as an efficient method for generating renewable energy. Despite recent advancements in photocatalytic water splitting, the solar-to-hydrogen conversion efficiency of photocatalysts remains well below the 10% target needed for commercial viability due to ongoing scientific challenges. This review comprehensively analyzes recent advancements in nanoscale engineering of photocatalytic materials, emphasizing techniques to enhance photogenerated charge separation for efficient solar hydrogen production. Here we highlight the nanoscale engineering strategies for effective charge separation including crystal engineering, junction engineering, doping-induced charge separation, tailoring optoelectronic properties, hierarchical architecture, defects engineering, various types of heterojunctions, and polarity-induced charge separation, and discuss their unique properties including ferroelectric on spatial charge separation along with the fundamental principles of light-induced charge separation/transfer mechanisms, and the techniques for investigation. This study, critically assesses strategies for effective photogenerated charge separation to enhance photocatalytic hydrogen production and offers guidance for future research to design efficient energy materials for solar energy conversion.

Directing Nanoparticle Organization in Response to Diverse Chemical Inputs.

Signaling cascades are crucial for transducing stimuli in biological systems, enabling multiple stimuli to regulate a downstream target with precisely controlled timing and amplifying signals through a series of intermediary reactions. Developing a robust signaling system with such capabilities would be pivotal for programming complex behaviors in synthetic DNA-based molecular devices. However, although "software" such as nucleic acid circuits could potentially be harnessed to relay signals to DNA-based nanostructure hardware, such explorations have been limited. Here, we develop a platform for transducing a variety of stimuli via messenger-mediated reactions to regulate the release and reloading of gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) in a 3D DNA framework. In the first step, an in vitro transcription circuit is engineered to sense and amplify chemical stimuli, including arbitrary DNA sequences and proteins, producing RNA. In the second step, the RNA releases the DNA-coated AuNPs from the DNA framework via a strand displacement reaction. AuNP reloading is controlled by a separate step driven by degradation of the RNA. Our platform holds promise for applications requiring dynamic multiagent control over DNA-based devices, offering a versatile tool for advanced molecular device engineering.

Optimizing CAR-NK Cell Transduction and Expansion: Leveraging Cytokine Modulation for Enhanced Performance.

Cellular immunotherapy has emerged as one of the most potent approaches to treating cancer patients. Adoptive transfer of chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cells as well as the use of haploidentical natural killer (NK) cells can induce remission in patients with lymphoma and leukemia. Although the use of CAR T cells has been established, this approach is currently limited for wider use by the risk of severe adverse events, including cytokine release syndrome and immune effector cell-associated neurotoxicity syndrome. Moreover, the risk of triggering graft vs host reactions in settings of allogeneic T cell infusion limits the use to autologous CAR T cells if advanced CRISPR engineering is not applied. In contrast, NK cell-based cancer immunotherapy has emerged as a safe approach even in allogeneic settings. However, efficient transduction of primary blood NK cells with vesicular stomatitis virus G glycoprotein (VSV-G) pseudotyped lentivirus commonly used for T cell modification remains challenging. This article presents a detailed method that significantly enhances the transduction efficiency of NK cells by utilizing a short-term culture in cytokine-supplemented medium. It also encompasses the preparation of high-titer and high-quality lentiviral particles for optimal NK cell transduction. Overall, this protocol details the step-by-step culture of NK cells in cytokine-supplemented medium, their transduction with VSV-G lentiviral vectors, and subsequent expansion for functional assays. © 2024 Wiley Periodicals LLC. Basic Protocol 1: Isolation of NK cells from human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) Basic Protocol 2: NK cell expansion and transduction with lentivirus for generating CAR-NK cells Support Protocol 1: Plasmid amplification Support Protocol 2: Lentivirus preparation Support Protocol 3: Lentivirus titration.

Engineering and Technological Advancements in Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS): A Five-Year Review

In the past five years, repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) has evolved significantly, driven by advancements in device design, treatment protocols, software integration, and brain-computer interfaces (BCIs). This review evaluates how these innovations enhance the safety, efficacy, and accessibility of rTMS while identifying key challenges such as protocol standardization and ethical considerations. A structured review of peer-reviewed studies from 2019 to 2024 focused on technological and clinical advancements in rTMS, including AI-driven personalized treatments, portable devices, and integrated BCIs. AI algorithms have optimized patient-specific protocols, while portable devices have expanded access. Enhanced coil designs and BCI integration offer more precise and adaptive neuromodulation. However, challenges remain in standardizing protocols, addressing device complexity, and ensuring equitable access. While recent innovations improve rTMS’s clinical utility, gaps in long-term efficacy and ethical concerns persist. Future research must prioritize standardization, accessibility, and robust ethical frameworks to ensure rTMS’s sustainable impact.

Assessing the Tribological Impact of 3D Printed Carbon-Reinforced ABS Composite Cylindrical Gears

The tribological performance of carbon-reinforced acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) composites is very important in determining their suitability for advanced engineering applications. This study employs response surface methodology (RSM) to evaluate the effects of printing temperature and post-processing annealing on the wear resistance and frictional properties of these composites. A central composite design is used to systematically explore the interaction between these two factors, enabling the development of predictive models for key tribological parameters. The results reveal that both the coefficient of friction (COF) and wear are affected by printing and annealing temperatures, although in a non-linear manner. Moderate printing temperatures and lower annealing temperatures were found to reduce friction and wear, with annealing temperature having a more pronounced effect on wear. To further optimize these responses, the desirability approach was applied for predicting the optimal conditions. The optimal combination of input parameters for minimizing both COF and wear was found to be a printing temperature of 256 °C and an annealing temperature of 126 °C. This research provides valuable insights for optimizing additive manufacturing processes of carbon-reinforced ABS composites, contributing to enhanced material durability in practical applications.

Sustainable bridge engineering: Cost reduction and durability enhancement in developing nations

This paper explores innovative approaches to sustainable bridge engineering, focusing on cost reduction and durability enhancement in developing nations. Drawing from my successful projects in Uganda and Guinea, where I reduced construction costs by 30% without compromising structural integrity, I will present detailed case studies that highlight the effective application of sustainable materials and techniques. In Uganda, through the use of locally sourced materials and optimized construction processes, I achieved significant cost savings while ensuring long-term durability in rural infrastructure. Similarly, in Guinea, I implemented advanced engineering practices that prioritized resource efficiency, leading to a reduction in project expenses and a strengthened bridge lifespan. The case studies demonstrate how sustainable engineering practices can be tailored to local conditions and still meet global standards for resilient infrastructure. By emphasizing cost-effective materials such as recycled aggregates and low-carbon concrete, and employing techniques such as modular construction and innovative foundation designs, my work offers a blueprint for reducing expenses while enhancing the longevity of infrastructure. The strategies I employed in Uganda and Guinea are adaptable to other developing nations and can be applied globally, including in the U.S., to build durable and sustainable bridges that address both budgetary constraints and environmental considerations. This paper aligns with the broader goals of sustainable infrastructure development by contributing to the global discourse on resource-efficient engineering solutions. The findings support national and international objectives to enhance infrastructure resilience while minimizing environmental impact and construction costs.

Developing Lightweight Silanized Cellulose Ultramaterials as the Strongest Engineered Aerogel

AbstractSilica aerogel materials exhibit exceptional properties, including unique light, heat, fluid, and ion characteristics with vast potential. Despite similarities in composition to glass, silica aerogel lacks ductility and is prone to breakage upon impact. Therefore, the development of advanced engineering aerogel ultra materials that combine the mechanical strength of engineered materials with the ultralight superinsulation of aerogels remains a significant challenge. Herein, a multidimensional and multiscale gradient‐pore strategy is proposed for the scalable production of nanostructured silanized cellulose (SiCell) nanofibrous frameworks through colloidal self‐assembly using an active earth‐abundant biopolymer from the wood as a functional component. The configuration of the SiCell/polymer‐crosslinked silica‐aerogel‐powder (SiAP)‐locked structure creates a regional framework that forms SiCell/polymer‐crosslinked SiAP‐locked aerogels (SiCSiPA) with a 3D nanoporous architecture. With an ultralow thermal conductivity of 15.9 mW m−1 K−1, the lightweight super insulating SiCSiPA emerges as a prime candidate for thermal insulation, offering exceptional strength for practical applications. Moreover, SiCSiPA exhibits superior strength, stiffness, and toughness, making it the best insulating material. Owing to its outstanding strength‐to‐weight ratio and robust thermomechanical stability, SiCSiPA introduces a new technology for lightweight construction applications requiring superior thermal insulation.

Advances in Triticale (X Triticosecale) Improvement: Chromosome Manipulation and Biotechnological Approaches

Triticale (X Triticosecale) is a hybrid cereal crop with great potential for enhancing food security. It is a synthetic cereal. Meanwhile, certain genetic instabilities arising from the merging of the rye and wheat genomes have impeded the advancement of triticale, chromosome engineering advancements along with biotechnological approaches might potentially unleash the full potential of triticale. This article provides a comprehensive summary of the historical development and current status of research on conventional and molecular breeding and manipulating triticale chromosomes in order to introduce beneficial traits, correct genetic abnormalities, and accelerate breeding. Among the major strategies covered are chromosomal doubling, addition, replacement, translocation, and deletion. Beneficial genes from rye for quality of grain, yield, and disease resistance were incorporated into triticale backgrounds using addition and replacement lines. In general, using chromosome-modifying technologies within an integrated breeding framework may help with genetic stabilization, the planned evolution of triticale for greater productivity and robustness, and strategic trait integration. This study looks at the advantages, disadvantages, and potential benefits of using chromosomal engineering to enhance triticales.

Enhancing Environmental Conservation through the Implementation of GMOs

The rapid advancements in genetic engineering have opened new frontiers in agriculture, medicine, and environmental conservation. Among these, the potential of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in preserving biodiversity and combating environmental challenges has garnered significant attention. This article delves into how GMOs contribute to conservation efforts by bolstering species resilience and curbing biodiversity decline. For instance, the case of ash trees in North America facing the threat of emerald ash borers showcases how genetic modification can aid in rescuing endangered species. The discussion also delves into measures overseeing GMO releases into environments highlighting approaches taken by countries such as the U.S. And China to mitigate risks such as diminished genetic diversity and ecological disturbances. While GMOs offer advantages like lowering greenhouse gas emissions and aiding in toxin breakdown, there are concerns about drawbacks such as displacing species or causing unintended ecological consequences. To address these issues innovative solutions are proposed—like using GMOs that self-terminate after their intended purpose or creating GMOs that establish symbiotic relationships with species.

Recent Advances in Engineering Fe-N-C Catalysts for Oxygen Electrocatalysis in Zn-Air Batteries.

Fe-N-C single-atom catalysts (SACs) have emerged as one of the most promising candidates for oxygen electrocatalysis due to their maximized atom utilization efficiency, high intrinsic activity, and strong metal-support interaction. Significant progress has been made in engineering Fe-N-C SACs for oxygen electrocatalysis in Zn-air batteries (ZABs). This review provides a comprehensive overview of the recent advancements in Fe-N-C SACs, with a special focus on effective engineering strategies, their performance in oxygen electrocatalysis, and their potential applications in ZABs. The review also discusses the key challenges and future directions in the development of Fe-N-C SACs for efficient and durable oxygen electrocatalysis in ZABs. This review aims to offer valuable insights into the current state of research in this field and to guide future efforts in the development of advanced oxygen electrocatalysts for ZABs.

Investigation of the Influence of Al2O3 Particles on the Microhardness and Tensile Strength of PA6 Composites

Polyamide is a high-performance synthetic plastic known for its strength, durability, flexibility, chemical resistance, and low cost, making it widely used in engineering, automotive, and electrical. However, the surface and mechanical properties can be further enhanced to meet the growing demands of advanced engineering applications. This study aims to investigate the influence of Al2O3 particles on the hardness of polyamide 6 (PA6). The Al2O3 was mixed with PA6 at weight percentages (wt.%) of 0.3% and 1.5% then were fabricated into composite plates using compression molding and subsequently. As a result, the composites achieved higher microhardness and tensile strength compared to the matrix with increases of 13.3% and 7.3% achieved by incorporating 0.3 wt.% of reinforcement, respectively. This result suggests that Al2O3 has the potential to improve the surface properties and mechanical strength of the matrix material.

Mechanism of Action and Pharmacokinetics of Approved Bispecific Antibodies.

Bispecific antibodies represent a significant advancement in therapeutic antibody engineering, offering the ability to simultaneously target two distinct antigens. This dual-targeting capability enhances therapeutic efficacy, especially in complex diseases, such as cancer and autoimmune disorders, where drug resistance and incomplete target coverage are prevalent challenges. Bispecific antibodies facilitate immune cell engagement and disrupt multiple signaling pathways, providing a more comprehensive treatment approach than traditional monoclonal antibodies. However, the intricate structure of bispecific antibodies introduces unique pharmacokinetic challenges, including issues related to their absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion, which can significantly affect their efficacy and safety. This review provides an in-depth analysis of the structural design, mechanisms of action, and pharmacokinetics of the currently approved bispecific antibodies. It also highlights the engineering innovations that have been implemented to overcome these challenges, such as Fc modifications and advanced dimerization techniques, which enhance the stability and half-life of bispecific antibodies. Significant progress has been made in bispecific antibody technology; however, further research is necessary to broaden their clinical applications, enhance their safety profiles, and optimize their incorporation into combination therapies. Continuous advancements in this field are expected to enable bispecific antibodies to provide more precise and effective therapeutic strategies for a range of complex diseases, ultimately improving patient outcomes and advancing precision medicine.