Communication Devices Research Articles

On Performance of Backscatter-NOMA Systems: Symbiotic Communication for IoT Devices

On Performance of Backscatter-NOMA Systems: Symbiotic Communication for IoT Devices

Topological slow light and rainbow trapping of surface wave in valley photonic crystal bounded by air

Abstract Topological slow light and rainbow trapping tend to rely on large-scale interface structure in previous research work, which have restricted further miniaturization. In this work, we propose a method to realize slow light and rainbow trapping at the zigzag edge of a single valley photonic crystals (VPCs) bounded by air, which is very different from previous studies where rainbow trapping is supported at the interface separating two VPCs with inversion symmetry. By constructing the VPC–air boundaries and VPC–VPC interfaces experimentally, we have observed the topologically protected rainbow trapping simultaneously at the external and internal boundary. This work provides a feasible platform for the miniaturized optical communication devices such as optical buffers, optical storage and optical routing.

Synthesis, crystallographic, spectroscopic, magnetic, and DFT characterization of a new strandberg-type polyoxometalate: (H2AEP)4[CoP2Mo5]2 ̶ first principles calculations

This work reports the synthesis of a novel diphosphopentamolybdate compound with the formula (C6H17N3)4[Co(H2O)4P2Mo5O23]2‧8·74H2O abbreviated as (H2AEP)4[CoP2Mo5]2. Characterization of this compound was carried out using various techniques, including X-ray diffraction, thermal analysis (TGA), and spectroscopies such as FT-IR, Raman, UV–visible, and fluorescence. The structural study reveals that the studied material crystallizes in the orthorhombic system Pca21 with lattice parameters of a = 18.6348(16) Å, b = 11.8613(10) Å, c = 35.074(3) Å, and volume V = 7752.5(11) Å3, and a number of formula units per primitive cell Z = 4. The crystal structure study reveals that the Strandberg anions (P2Mo5O23)6− are connected to Co(II) octahedra through the terminal oxygen atoms of the PO4 tetrahedra, creating 1-D anionic chains in the crystallographic direction [101]. The 1-(2-Aminoethyl)piperazinium (AEP) cations are located within the anionic framework to neutralize its negative charge. The magnetic characteristics of the compound were investigated by examining the temperature-dependent molecular susceptibility over the range of 2–300 K. The analysis revealed the presence of an antiferromagnetic exchange interaction. Moreover, the material's refractive index exhibited significant dispersive behavior within the visible spectrum, indicating its potential for use in visible optical communication devices. A first-principles density functional theory (DFT)-based computational study confirms the semiconducting behavior of (H2AEP)4[CoP2Mo5]2, revealing that in the ground state, high-spin octahedrally coordinated Co2+ cations exhibit a very weak antiferromagnetic coupling along the [Co(H2O)4P2Mo5O23]∞4−chains running in the crystal a direction.

B-ERAC: Blockchain-Enabled Role-Based Access Control for Secure IoT Device Communication

Security risks are increasingly concerning as the Internet of Things (IoT) expands. Authentication, access control, and authorization present significant challenges for resource-constrained IoT devices. Traditional authentication methods often require enhancements for these devices, but Blockchain technology presents a potential solution. Decentralized and distributed, Blockchain eliminates a single point of failure and relies on Elliptic Curve Cryptography (ECC) for robust security. We have introduced a cutting-edge solution to fortify communication security within IoT devices across supply chain ecosystems. By harnessing the power of Blockchain technology, our framework incorporates smart contracts, adheres to ES256 encryption standards, and seamlessly integrates with Infura API. These components establish stringent access controls, ensure data integrity, and enhance transparency throughout supply chain processes. The framework’s robust architecture facilitates swift and secure transactions, bolsters traceability efforts, and effectively mitigates potential security risks. With its scalable design and reliable functionality, this framework emerges as a pivotal asset for optimizing IoT device communication within dynamic supply chain environments. The use of ProVerif in our analysis provides a formal guarantee of the correctness of our access control mechanisms.

Applying Pattern Language to Enhance IIoT System Design and Integration: From Theory to Practice

The Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) is pivotal in advancing industrial automation, offering significant improvements in connectivity and efficiency. However, the integration of heterogeneous devices within IIoT systems presents substantial challenges, primarily due to the diversity in device hardware, protocols, and functionalities. In this paper, we propose a new pattern language specifically designed to enhance interoperability and operational efficiency across industrial settings. Drawing from a case study of the State Company for Automotive Industry (S.C.A.I.) in Iraq, this study details the development and integration of eleven interrelated patterns. These patterns were carefully combined based on identified relationships, forming a comprehensive pattern language that addresses key aspects of system heterogeneity, including device communication, data security, and system scalability. The pattern language was validated using the Delphi process theory, engaging industry experts to refine and optimize the framework for practical application. The implementation of this pattern language led to significant improvements in system integration, enabling seamless communication between diverse devices and enhancing operational workflows. The case study demonstrates the practical viability of the proposed pattern language in enhancing interoperability within real-world Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) applications. Furthermore, the replicable nature of this framework makes it a valuable resource for other industrial environments seeking to harness the power of IIoT technologies.

Giant and reconfigurable vortical dichroism with multi-layer spiral metamaterials

In the photonics orbital angular momentum dimension, the vortical dichroism (VD) of artificial metamaterials at fixed wavelengths has been extensively investigated. However, the challenges of weak and unregulated VD magnitude still limit the development of chiral optics. Herein, we propose multi-layer spiral metamaterials with phase change material Ge2Sb2Te5 (GST), which support giant VD magnitude of −176% in the optical communication band around 1550 nm. Meanwhile, by changing the temperature to control the GST from crystalline to amorphous states, the VD magnitude rapidly decreases to −1%. This large change from extremely giant magnitude to weak magnitude indicates the advantages of reconfigurable VD response. The maximum modulation depth reaches almost 100%. The GST based metamaterials possess excellent switchable capability for VD magnitude without refabricating structures, which is promising in applications for the next generation of chiral optical communication devices.

Management of paediatric sialorrhea

Purpose of review To summarize current understanding of and recent literature on the management of sialorrhea in children. Recent findings Sialorrhea is a symptom of oropharyngeal dysphagia and reduced clearance. Sialorrhea can be anterior, with forward overflow of saliva, causing skin rash, social embarrassment and spillage on communication devices; or posterior, where there is pharyngeal pooling of saliva, which may cause aspiration. Assessment of sialorrhea involves a clinical evaluation, focusing on the individual's age, development, underlying medical condition and whether the sialorrhea is anterior, posterior or both. Craniomaxillofacial structure, posture, airway patency, neuromotor control, level of social awareness, motivation and caregiver concerns are assessed. To manage sialorrhea, integration of multiple strategies is usually needed. There is good evidence for behavioral intervention, oral appliances, anticholinergic medications, botulinum toxin injection and surgery. The role of various options of surgery in providing a longer lasting effect is supported. Adjunctive airway and craniomaxillofacial surgery may be indicated. Summary Sialorrhea is a modifiable condition with multifactorial causes requiring multimodal therapy by an inter-disciplinary team. There is increasing evidence on the role of saliva surgery in improving the quality of life for the person with sialorrhea and their caregivers.

Designing Tb-doped Mn-Ni-Cu ferrite meta-absorbers for a broad frequency range: Magnetodielectric, physical, reflection loss, and absorptivity characteristics

Developing meta-absorbers with exceptional EM wave absorption, shielding capacity, and superior dissipation performance remains worthwhile in the gigahertz (GHz) range. Electromagnetic pollution has a detrimental impact on the health of living organisms due to the emergence of high-frequency waves from communication devices. The challenges were addressed by preparing, designing, and simulating ferrite-based meta-absorbers. The nanoferrites of Tb-doped Mn-Ni-Cu (Mn0.2Ni0.3Cu0.5TbxFe2-xO4) with different levels of Tb (x = 0.00, 0.025, 0.05, 0.075) were prepared utilizing the sol-gel auto combustion technique. The phase, structural, elastic, and magnetic features of the Tb-doped Mn-Ni-Cu ferrites were examined using XRD, FESEM, FTIR, and VSM techniques, respectively. The MAUD software was utilized to obtain refinement and precise structural characteristics. The force constant, phase, and elastic properties were also assessed. The magnetization and coercivity exhibited a reduction. An assessment was conducted on the performance of field switching and high-frequency response. At high frequencies, the dielectric characteristics, such as complex permeability and permittivity, exhibit greater values, while losses diminish. At a frequency of 4.6 GHz, a reflection loss (RL) of −54.21 dB was measured for x = 0.05, whereas a reflection loss of −54.03 dB was measured for x = 0.075. The meta-absorbers of Tb-doped Mn-Ni-Cu ferrites were designed and simulated. The absorptivity of the Tb-doped Mn-Ni-Cu ferrite substrate material is illustrated. The meta-absorber exhibited three distinct absorption peaks at frequencies of 1.5, 2.5, and 4.5–6 GHz, respectively. The absorptivity of the material likewise rises with an increase in the incidence angle; the material's absorptivity also increases. The TM mode exhibited the highest values at an angle of 60 degrees, while the TE mode displayed the highest values at an angle of 0 degrees. Tb-doped Mn-Ni-Cu ferrites are effective for electromagnetic interference (EMI), multilayer ceramic integrated circuits (MLCIs), shielding, and absorbing high-frequency signals in 5 G applications.

Vulnerability module in the multi-level ontology of risk assessment of Wireless Sensor Networks

This work presents the development of a vulnerability module within a multi-level ontology for risk assessment in wireless sensor networks (WSNs) used in industrial environments. WSNs consist of multiple sensor nodes with microcontrollers, sensors, communication devices, and power sources, playing a key role in monitoring, diagnostics, and managing industrial processes. Their main advantages include reduced costs due to the lack of cabling and ease of scaling by adding new nodes. However, WSNs face significant challenges, including limited power supply, vulnerability to electromagnetic interference, low bandwidth, and exposure to cyber-attacks. These issues make them less suitable for real-time systems where fast and reliable data transmission is critical. The vulnerability module developed in this study addresses these challenges by identifying weaknesses, analyzing potential threats, and assessing risks using logical rules. These rules assess various network components such as devices, communication protocols, and external factors like physical access and radio interference. The module continuously monitors the network, detects new vulnerabilities, and provides real-time feedback to the risk assessment module, suggesting measures to mitigate risks. This enhances the security and reliability of WSNs in industrial applications. In conclusion, the vulnerability module within the multi-level ontology provides a structured approach to identifying and mitigating risks in WSNs. Despite the inherent vulnerabilities of WSNs, advancements in security protocols and energy efficiency make them increasingly viable for industrial automation and optimization.

Self-healable, recyclable, and mechanically robust vitrimer composite for high-performance triboelectric nanogenerators and self-powered wireless electronics

With growing concerns about sustainability, there has been significant research interest in fabricating triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) from materials capable of self-repair. Here, we presented a novel polyimine/graphite polypropylene (PI/GP) vitrimer composite as a tribo-positive material for harvesting biomechanical energy. The PI/GP exhibited mechanical robustness, self-healing properties after damage, and recyclability through physical or chemical methods. The GP provided a high dielectric constant, charge transport paths, and desirable surface roughness, resulting in an outstanding TENG performance at an optimized addition level of 30 wt% in the composite (PI/GP30). Under a force of 15 N and a frequency of 6 Hz, the PI/GP30 TENG generated a power density of 2571 mW/m². Moreover, a PI/GP30 TENG device with an area of 49 cm2 was able to generate a remarkable output voltage of nearly 1325 V, at a frequency of 6 Hz and under a vertical force of 15 N. Additionally, the PI/GP30 TENG device produced a peak-to-peak voltage of 1250 V, and an outstanding current of around 2 mA by hand tapping with a force of 35–40 N. The PI/GP30 TENG was utilized for real-life applications, including a triboelectric watchband for a self-powered watch, and wireless data transmission. Furthermore, the PI/GP30 TENG demonstrated excellent self-healing and recyclability, and these properties were examined in a mousepad power generator. This study highlights the excellent promise of PI/GP vitrimer composite for fabricating high-performance, mechanically robust, self-healable, and recyclable TENGs, enabling their applications in green biomechanical power generators and wearable and wireless communication devices.

DEAC-IoT: Design of lightweight authenticated key agreement protocol for Intra and Inter-IoT device communication using ECC with FPGA implementation

The growing reliance on wireless communication in Internet-of-Things (IoT) devices highlights the critical need for secure and efficient communication protocols, especially in environments vulnerable to cyber threats. Existing IoT protocols often lack sufficient security, creating a need for robust authentication and key exchange mechanisms that can resist attacks while maintaining low computational overhead. In this paper, we propose a fog-enabled network architecture integrated with IoT devices (Intra and Inter IoT device) and develop the DEAC-IoT scheme using Elliptic Curve Cryptography (ECC) for secure authentication and key agreement. Our protocol is designed to protect device-to-device communication from security threats in resource-constrained IoT environments. We validate DEAC-IoT’s security through both informal analysis and formal verification using the Real-Or-Random (RoR) model, demonstrating its resistance to major attacks. Simulation via the Scyther tool confirms that private parameters remain secure throughout the protocol’s execution. For practical feasibility, we implement DEAC-IoT on a Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) and conduct performance evaluations. The results show that our protocol surpasses existing protocols in both computational and communication efficiency, making it highly suitable for real-world IoT applications.

Enhancing IoT connectivity through spectrum sharing in 5G networks

The integration of the Internet of Things (IoT) into high-performance devices and monitoring systems, spanning domains such as smart building, e-health care, and smart agriculture, necessitates a critical emphasis on advancing mobile communications through efficient spectrum utilization. This research addresses pivotal challenges within agricultural IoT applications, specifically focusing on the substantial decline in spectrum efficiency observed with the increasing escalation of network bandwidth. Acknowledging the absence of comprehensive reviews on 5G resource allocation strategies in the existing literature, our study aims to contribute to a nuanced understanding of their implications for service quality. The identified research gaps underscore an urgent need for heightened efforts to optimize resource allocation in 5G networks. This investigation delves into the intricacies of spectrum sharing and real-time analysis techniques within the 5G and beyond network, with a targeted focus on augmenting agricultural IoT services. Three distinct models, namely (i) Non-Priority Algorithm (NPA), (ii) Reserved Channel Algorithm (RCA) - No Permanent Channels, and (iii) Reserved Channel Algorithm (RCA) - Permanent Channels, were meticulously designed and simulated for Agricultural IoT application scenarios. The methodology encompasses the comprehensive evaluation of performance metrics, including call blocking, termination, and handover, to strategically identify and allocate spectrum resources effectively. The research endeavors to address ongoing challenges pertaining to effective communication, standardization, and data management for diverse 5G IoT devices. In light of these persisting concerns, the study not only seeks to enhance the overall efficiency of 5G IoT networks but also proposes innovative perspectives on intelligent and ingenious spectrum allocation techniques. The anticipated outcomes pledge to optimize the utilization of limited spectrum through novel spectrum-sharing strategies, thereby contributing to the advancement of 5G networks and bolstering agricultural IoT devices and services.

Advanced Materials for Energy Harvesting and Soft Robotics: Emerging Frontiers to Enhance Piezoelectric Performance and Functionality.

Piezoelectric energy harvesting captures mechanical energy from a number of sources, such as vibrations, the movement of objects and bodies, impact events, and fluid flow to generate electric power. Such power can be employed to support wireless communication, electronic components, ocean monitoring, tissue engineering, and biomedical devices. A variety of self-powered piezoelectric sensors, transducers, and actuators have been produced for these applications, however approaches to enhance the piezoelectric properties of materials to increase device performance remain a challenging frontier of materials research. In this regard, the intrinsic polarization and properties of materials can be designed or deliberately engineered to enhance the piezo-generated power. This review provides insights into the mechanisms of piezoelectricity in advanced materials, including perovskites, active polymers, and natural biomaterials, with a focus on the chemical and physical strategies employed to enhance the piezo-response and facilitate their integration into complex electronic systems. Applications in energy harvesting and soft robotics are overviewed by highlighting the primary performance figures of merits, the actuation mechanisms, and relevant applications. Key breakthroughs and valuable strategies to further improve both materials and device performance are discussed, together with a critical assessment of the requirements of next-generation piezoelectric systems, and future scientific and technological solutions.

Energy‐efficient channel selection algorithm with reduced collision probability in cognitive radio networks

AbstractThe growing demand for radio spectrum, driven by widespread communication devices, has led to spectrum congestion. Cognitive radio networks (CRNs) offer a solution by allowing secondary users (SUs) to access primary users' (PUs) channels without causing interference. This paper presents an energy‐efficient channel selection algorithm aimed at reducing collision probability and energy consumption during spectrum sensing. A prediction‐based model forecasts PU channel availability, enabling selective sensing. The results show a significant reduction in energy consumption, with the proposed method consuming 57.9% energy compared to 63.7% for a recent existing method. The proposed approach enhances spectrum management in next‐generation wireless systems by minimizing interference and optimizing energy use.

Evolution of the Moral Lexicon.

Morality is central to social well-being and cognition, and moral lexicon is a key device for human communication of moral concepts and experiences. How was the moral lexicon formed? We explore this open question and hypothesize that words evolved to take on abstract moral meanings from concrete and grounded experiences. We test this hypothesis by analyzing semantic change and formation of over 800 words from the English Moral Foundations Dictionary and the Historical Thesaurus of English over the past hundreds of years. Across historical text corpora and dictionaries, we discover concrete-to-abstract shifts as words acquire moral meaning, in contrast with the broad observation that words become more concrete over time. Furthermore, we find that compound moral words tend to be derived from a concrete-to-abstract shift from their constituents, and this derivational property is more prominent in moral words compared to alternative compound words when word frequency is controlled for. We suggest that evolution of the moral lexicon depends on systematic metaphorical mappings from concrete domains to the moral domain. Our results provide large-scale evidence for the role of metaphor in shaping the historical development of the English moral lexicon.

Latent class analysis of communication methods and devices among Japanese patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: a cross-sectional survey

ABSTRACT Augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) is used to support individuals with communication impairments, such as those with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). The selection of AAC for patients with ALS involves a variety of factors, sometimes leading to the utilization of multiple AAC methods. This study aimed to survey patients with ALS in Japan, focusing on objectives: to describe the actual state of AAC usage among these patients and to investigate potential classifications in their choice of communication methods, along with identifying influential latent factors. Data from 102 patients with ALS were analysed using descriptive statistics and latent class analysis. A latent class analysis revealed four distinct classifications: class I, replacing unaid communication with AAC (n = 46, 45.1%); class II, with minimal AAC use (n = 24, 23.5%); class III, centred around no-tech/low-tech AAC (n = 17, 16.7%); and class IV combining unaid communication with various AACs (n = 15, 14.7%). These classifications were influenced by age at diagnosis, TPPV use, gastrostomy use, and the Revised ALS Functional Rating Scale. The characteristics of each class revealed a correlation between increased medical needs, such as bulbar palsy, motor and respiratory function decline, and the necessity for AAC. Notably, patients diagnosed at an older age and those with severe bulbar palsy, like those seen in bulbar-onset ALS, require early communication support due to early onset of communication impairments. Additionally, introducing AAC in the early stages of ALS suggests that learning diverse communication methods can contribute to the maintenance of communication.

An AKA protocol for 5G-assisted D2D communication in Out-of-Coverage scenario

5G-assisted Device to Device (D2D) communication can be broadly categorized into three use case scenarios: In Coverage, Relay Coverage, and Out-of Coverage. The main challenge lies in ensuring secure communication in Out-of Coverage scenarios, as in this situation, neither of the two devices is within the 5G network’s coverage area. Although several researchers have developed authentication mechanisms for securing D2D communication, most are unsuitable for Out-of Coverage scenarios. Additionally, many of these mechanisms cannot withstand free-riding attacks due to the absence of a trusted entity. In a 5G cellular network, a trust relationship can be established between a registered device and the home network through mutual authentication whenever the former is within the latter’s coverage area. Leveraging this trust, this paper proposes a lightweight 5G-assisted authentication protocol for mutual authentication between two communicating devices in Out-of Coverage scenarios. The proposed protocol meets the necessary security goals and mitigates various security attacks, including free-riding attacks. The correctness of the proposed protocol is formally established using the Scyther tool and Random Oracle Model. Furthermore, performance analysis shows that the protocol is efficient in terms of computation overhead, communication overhead and energy consumption compared to similar works in the literature. The computation overhead is found to be 596.12 ms for the Requestor device and 587.26 ms for the Requestee device. The communication overhead is 2720 bits and the total energy consumption for both devices combined is found to be 3016.93 millijoules.

Advancements in Piezoelectric‐Enabled Devices for Optical Communication

Advancements in Piezoelectric‐Enabled Devices for Optical Communication

A certificateless designated verifier sanitizable signature in e-health intelligent mobile communication system

With the widespread use of mobile communication and smart devices in the medical field, mobile healthcare has gained significant attention due to its ability to overcome geographical limitations and provide more efficient and high-quality medical services. In mobile healthcare, various instruments and wearable device data are collected, encrypted, and uploaded to the cloud, accessible to medical professionals, researchers, and insurance companies, among others. However, ensuring the security and privacy of healthcare data in the context of mobile networks has been a highly challenging issue. Certificateless signature schemes allow patients to conceal their respective privacy information for different sharing needs. Nevertheless, existing mobile healthcare data protection solutions suffer from costly certificate management and the inability to restrict signature verifiers. This paper proposes a certificateless designated verifier sanitizable signature for mobile healthcare scenarios, aiming to enhance the security and privacy of mobile healthcare data. This scheme enables the sanitization of sensitive data without the need for certificate management and allows for the specification of signature verifiers. This ensures the confidentiality of medical data, protects patient privacy, and prevents unauthorized access to healthcare data. Through security analysis and experimental comparisons, it is demonstrated that the proposed scheme is both efficient and effectively ensures data security and user privacy. Therefore, it is well-suited for privacy protection in mobile healthcare data.

5G Network with Hexagonal SDN Control for Highly Secure Multimedia Communication

The 5G communication network is a promising technology that offers user-centric connectivity to customers, enabling quick, high-capacity, and latency-free access to many applications. Software Defined Networking Controller (SDNC) is an emerging technology that is used for increasing the security and maintaining the dynamic nature of mobile devices in latency and energy-assured 5G wireless communication. Different SDN topology open flow controllers are used in the literature for increasing the throughput and security of the network but they possess some drawbacks such as frequent location update (LU) overhead, high latency, and high energy consumption. This paper proposes a hexagonal software defined network (H-SDN) controller to overcome these challenges. The proposed H-SDN topology is used to preserve Intermediate Message Layer (IML) location during multimedia data transmission. A Core Switch (CS) updates an IML's location within clusters of cells, as long as it remains within the cluster. However, in the proposed method, there will be a location update on the server if the IML departs the cluster. Experiment results show that the proposed method can increase security, which in turn increases throughput, while reduces the location update costs, energy consumption, and transmission latency.