Compact Technology Research Articles

Optimized alkali atom cooling scheme using a transmission-grating-based magneto-optical trap.

Traditional magneto-optical traps are often bulky and complex, which limits their application in portable and scalable technologies. In this study, we propose a method for generating cold atoms using a transmission-grating-based magneto-optical trap (TGMOT). This approach addresses the limitations of traditional magneto-optical traps using a transmission-grating design that simplifies the optical configuration, allowing for efficient atom capture with a single incident beam. Our theoretical model demonstrates that the TGMOT maintains balanced forces on the trapped atoms, thereby enhancing cooling and capture efficiency compared to existing grating-based systems. Experimental results indicate that the TGMOT has a high atom-capture rate and capacity. The proposed TGMOT scheme represents a promising avenue for developing miniaturized portable quantum sensing devices, atomic clocks, and other compact quantum technologies.

(Invited) Group IV Mid-Infrared Optoelectronics Leveraging Nanoscale Growth Substrates

Mid-infrared (MIR) optoelectronic devices are of utmost importance to a plethora of applications such as night vision, thermal sensing, autonomous vehicles, free-space communication, and spectroscopy. To this end, leveraging the ubiquitous silicon-based processing has emerged as a powerful strategy that can be accomplished through the use of group IV germanium-tin (GeSn) alloys. Indeed, due to their compatibility with silicon and their tunable bandgap energy covering the entire MWIR range, GeSn semiconductors are frontrunner platforms for compact and scalable MIR technologies. However, the GeSn large lattice parameter has been a major hurdle limiting the quality of GeSn epitaxy on silicon wafers. These limitations are further exacerbated as Ge1−xSnx layers and heterostructures with Sn contents at least one order of magnitude higher than the solubility are needed for device structures relevant to MWIR applications. In this regime, the as-grown layers are typically under a significant compressive strain, which impacts the bandgap directness and increases its energy at the Γ point, thus hindering the device performance and limiting the covered range of the MIR spectrum. This compressive strain build-up not only affects the band structure but also limits the incorporation of Sn atoms in the growing layer, making the control of Sn content a daunting task.In this presentation, we will show and discuss how sub-20 nm Ge nanowires provide effective compliant substrates to grow Ge1−xSnx alloys with a composition uniformity over several micrometers with a very limited build-up of the compressive strain. Ge/Ge1−xSnx structures with Sn content spanning the 6 to 18 at.% range are achieved. We will also demonstrate the integration of the obtained materials in optoelectronic device processing leading to tunable detectors and emitters [1,2]. For instance, photodetectors based on these materials were found to exhibit a high signal-to-noise ratio at room temperature and provide a tunable cutoff wavelength covering the 2.0 µm to 3.9 µm range. Additionally, the processed detectors were also integrated in uncooled imagers enabling the acquisition of high-quality images under both broadband and laser illuminations without the use of the lock-in amplifier technique. Finally, progress towards achieving nanoscale GeSn lasers will also be discussed [2].

Robust chemical analysis with graphene chemosensors and machine learning.

Ion-sensitive field-effect transistors (ISFETs) have emerged as indispensable tools in chemosensing applications1-4. ISFETs operate by converting changes in the composition of chemical solutions into electrical signals, making them ideal for environmental monitoring5,6, healthcare diagnostics7 and industrial process control8. Recent advancements in ISFET technology, including functionalized multiplexed arrays and advanced data analytics, have improved their performance9,10. Here we illustrate the advantages of incorporating machine learning algorithms to construct predictive models using the extensive datasets generated by ISFET sensors for both classification and quantification tasks. This integration also sheds new light on the working of ISFETs beyond what can be derived solely from human expertise. Furthermore, it mitigates practical challenges associated with cycle-to-cycle, sensor-to-sensor and chip-to-chip variations, paving the way for the broader adoption of ISFETs in commercial applications. Specifically, we use data generated bynon-functionalized graphene-based ISFET arrays to train artificial neural networks that possess a remarkable ability to discern instances of food fraud, food spoilage and food safety concerns. We anticipate that the fusion of compact, energy-efficient and reusable graphene-based ISFET technology with robust machine learning algorithms holds the potential to revolutionize the detection of subtle chemical and environmental changes, offering swift, data-driven insights applicable across a wide spectrum of applications.

(Invited) Comparison of Catalyst-Coated Electrodes vs. Catalyst-Coated Membranes in PEM Water Electrolysis Cells

The PEM (Proton-Exchange Membrane or Polymer Electrolyte Membrane) cell concept [1] is used in fuel cells and water electrolysis cells. PEM water electrolysis is a compact, efficient and flexible technology for the production of “green-hydrogen” from renewable (intermittent) energy sources. The unit cell (Figure 1) is made of several adjacent functional layers: (i) the proton-conducting polymer membrane (1); (ii) two catalysts layers (CLs) for hydrogen/oxygen evolution containing platinum group metals or PGMs (2;2’); (iii) a porous transport layer used for mass transport of reactants/products and electricity distribution (3;3’); (iv) water flow fields for water circulation (4;4’); bipolar plates (5;5’). From a practical viewpoint, the CLs can be deposited on either side of the interfaces formed between the polymer membrane and the porous transport layer: (i) on the supporting porous transport layers to form catalyst-coated electrodes which are then hot pressed against the bare membrane to form membrane – electrode assemblies; (ii) directly onto the membrane to form catalyst-coated membranes (CCM).The aim of this paper is to evaluate the efficiency and durability of both concepts, drawing on recent advances in manufacturing techniques to reduce the loading of PGM catalysts.[1] W.T. Grubb Jr., Batteries with Solid Ion-Exchange Electrolytes. Journal of the Electrochemical Society. 106 (1959) 275-279.[2] C. Rozain, P. Millet, Electrochemical characterization of Polymer Electrolyte Membrane Water Electrolysis Cells, Electrochimica Acta, 131 (2014) 160-167. Figure 1. Schematic diagram showing the cross-section of a PEM water electrolysis cell [2]. Figure 1

Portable bioimpedance analyzer for remote body composition monitoring: A clinical investigation under controlled conditions

ObjectivesIn an era when telemedicine is becoming increasingly essential, the development and validation of miniaturized Bioelectrical Impedance Analysis (BIA) devices for accurate and reliable body composition assessment is crucial. This study investigates the BIA Metadieta, a novel miniaturized BIA device, by comparing its performance with that of standard hospital BIA equipment across a diverse demographic. The aim is to enhance remote health monitoring by integrating compact and efficient technology into routine healthcare practices. MethodsA cross-sectional observational study was conducted with 154 participants from the Clinical Nutrition Unit. The study compared resistance (R), reactance (Xc), and phase angle (PhA) measurements obtained from the BIA Metadieta device and a traditional hospital-based BIA device. ResultsAnalysis revealed strong positive correlations between the BIA Metadieta and the hospital-based device for R (r = 0.988, P < 0.001), Xc (r = 0.946, P < 0.001), and PhA (r = 0.929, P < 0.001), indicating the miniaturized device's high accuracy and reliability. These correlations were consistent across different genders and BMI categories, demonstrating the device's versatility. ConclusionsThe BIA Metadieta device, with its miniaturized form factor, represents a significant step forward in the field of remote health monitoring, providing a reliable, accurate, and accessible means for assessing body composition.

Development and validation study of compact biophotonic platform for detection of serum biomarkers

The application of advances in personalized medicine requires the support of in vitro diagnostic techniques aimed at the accurate, fast, sensitive, and precise determination of selected biomarkers. Herein, a novel optical centrifugal microfluidic device is developed for clinical analysis and point-of-care diagnostics. Based on compact disc technology, the integrated biophotonic system enables multiple immunoassays in miniaturized mode. The disposable microfluidic discs are made in cyclic olefin copolymer (COP), containing arrays of immobilized probes. In the developed approach, up to six patient samples can each be tested simultaneously. A portable instrument (<2 kg) controls the assay and the high-sensitive reproducible optical detection in transmission mode. Also, the instrument incorporates specific functionalities for personalized telemedicine.The device (analytical method, disc platform, reader, and software) has been validated to diagnose IgE-mediated drug allergies, such as amoxicillin and penicillin G. The total and specific IgE to β-lactam antibiotics were determined in human serum from patients (25 μL). The excellent analytical performances (detection limit 0.24 ng/mL, standard deviation 7–20 %) demonstrated that the developed system could have the potential for a broader impact beyond the allergy field, as it applies to other IVD tests.

Self-driven manifold microchannel heat sink for cooling electronics

The advancement of passive, compact, and lightweight thermal management technology for high-power chips is essential for the stable and efficient operation of the next generation of electronic devices. A novel self-driven heat sink based on embedded manifold microchannel heat dissipation technology is proposed, which uses capillary force as the driving force to replace the pump, and minimize pressure drop and thermal resistance between the heat sink and heat source. This design of the embedded self-driven manifold microchannel heat sink allows for the integration and miniaturization of the heat sink and the chip heat source. Through Micro Electromechanical Systems technology, an experimental sink with microchannels with a high aspect ratio was fabricated. A theoretical model is constructed to analyze the influence of the width and depth of the microchannel on the limit heat flux, and the correctness of the model is verified by experiments. The results indicate that the width has a more significant impact on the limit heat flux compared to the depth. An optimal width of 6.5 μm is identified. As the depth increases, the influence of depth on the limit heat flux diminishes. By conducting theoretical calculations on the embedded self-driven manifold microchannel heat sink, it was determined that the device using HFE7100 as the working fluid demonstrates a wider heat load range than ethanol and acetone, and the limit heat flux can reach 41.5W/cm2.

Electrically Small Antenna for Sensing Application: A Review

Abstract: This study focuses on the electrically small antennas (ESAs) tailored for sensing applications. Recognizing the critical role of antenna size and performance in modern sensing systems, the research employs advanced simulation and optimization techniques to explore various configurations. Additionally, discussions on potential enhancements, such as meta material, Dielectric resonating antenna, meander line antenna, etc. integration and reconfigurable structures, provide insights for future developments in compact antenna technology for wireless sensing systems. Thus, in In this paper, a comprehensive overview of various types of electrically small antennas (ESAs) is presented, along with their significance in enhancing performance and their application in 5G and 6G communication systems.

Radiology Department Disaster Preparedness: Practice, Strategies and Emergency Response

In order to respond effectively to any radiological emergencies, the implementation of disaster management practices is an essential and invaluable aspect. It can be difficult to know in advance exactly what you will be facing when you go to help people in a disaster situation brought about by hurricanes, earthquakes and other events, but the more compact medical technology you can bring in with you, the more you can accurately diagnose and assist those in need. Our disaster plans need to be programmatic, flexible, and should be continuously reviewed and updated. Within a few minutes of a disaster operationalize hospital support for the initial treatment of several injured patients and for ongoing care up to many hours is required. The Radiology Department is at the forefront of patient care in emergency situations, such as mass casualty incidents and natural disasters, providing critical diagnostic services to prioritize and triage patient needs. Radiological imaging is critical for improving patient outcomes and lowering morbidity and mortality, from detecting potentially fatal injuries to guiding surgical procedures. Radiologic technologists, radiologists, nurses, and other paramedic staff must actively participate in patient care. This paper provides an overview of the comprehensive strategy needed to maximize the radiology department’s preparedness and response for disasters.

Nitrogen and phosphorus removal from synthetic aquaculture water through electrocoagulation

In this research, we utilized multivariate analysis to evaluate the efficient removal of nitrogen and phosphorus from synthetic aquaculture water using the electrocoagulation process. The elimination of nitrogen and phosphorus is a critical issue in various wastewater treatment plants and aquaculture systems, especially in instances of intensive or super-intensive cultivation. To avert the buildup of pollutants in the water, be it within internal recirculation systems or bodies of water receiving effluents from rearing tanks, it is imperative to employ treatment methodologies designed to effectively eliminate nitrogen and phosphorus nutrients. These nutrients have the potential to induce eutrophication in aquatic ecosystems. However, conventional biological treatment technologies can be ineffective, as they often only remove one pollutant or the other. Furthermore, the individual operations for these systems are complex and require substantial space. Electrocoagulation is a compact and promising technology for treating aquaculture water and effluents for raw nutrient removal. In this context, our findings showcase the simultaneous removal of both nitrogen and phosphorus through the electrocoagulation method. The best treatment was verified for the highest electrical current density (74 A. m-2), the shortest distance between electrodes (4 cm), and the lowest electrolysis time (50 min). In these conditions, the efficiency removal in ammonia nitrogen and total phosphorus were 30.5% and 100% respectively. Keywords: electrochemical treatment, eutrophication, water pollution control.

Shoulder Proprioception: A Review.

The purpose of this review is to provide a comprehensive resource for shoulder proprioception assessment and its integration into clinical decision making as well as targeted rehabilitation protocols. Data for this review were acquired from peer-reviewed articles from computerized online databases, namely PubMed and Medline, published between 1906 and 2021. The development of digital/smart phone goniometers can improve shoulder joint range of motion (ROM) measurements and demonstrate comparable measurement accuracy to the universal standard goniometer. The inclinometer offers a portable and cost-effective method for measuring shoulder joint angles and arcs of motion in the vertical plane. Two types of dynamometers, the computerized isokinetic machine and the handheld hydraulic dynamometer, are reliable tools for objective shoulder rotator cuff strength assessment. Motion analysis systems are highly advanced modalities that create three-dimensional models of motion arcs using a series of cameras and reflective beads, offering unparalleled precision in shoulder proprioception measurement; however, they require time-consuming calibration and skilled operators. Advancements in wearable devices and compact mobile technology such as iPhone applications may make three-dimensional motion analysis more affordable and practical for outpatient settings in the future. The complex interplay between proprioception and shoulder dysfunction is not fully understood; however, shoulder proprioception can likely both contribute to and be caused by shoulder pathology. In patients with rotator cuff tears, glenohumeral osteoarthritis, and shoulder instability, clinicians can track proprioception to understand a patient's disease progression or response to treatment. Finally, rehabilitation programs targeting shoulder proprioception have shown promising initial results in restoring function and returning athletes to play.

From MOSFET to FinFET to GAAFET: The evolution, challenges, and future prospects

With the swift progression of semiconductor technology, the transition from Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor Field-Effect Transistors (MOSFETs) to Fin Field-Effect Transistors (FinFETs) and further to Gate-All-Around Field-Effect Transistors (GAAFETs) presents significant potential for the future of electronic devices and systems. This article delves into the intricate applications, challenges, and prospective evolutions associated with FinFET and GAAFET technologies. Findings suggest that these technologies are particularly apt for low-power logic systems, high-performance computing, and artificial intelligence domains. However, as dimensions shrink, challenges pertaining to heat dissipation, leakage, and manufacturing consistency become prominent. Despite these hurdles, the horizon for semiconductor technology remains bright, encompassing exploration of alternative materials such as Germanium and 2D compositions and innovative designs like U-shaped Field-Effect Transistors and Complementary Field-Effect Transistors. As the industry continues its relentless pursuit of even more efficient, smaller transistors, the exploration of alternative materials and diversification in architecture may play a pivotal role in future developments. In essence, while the semiconductor sphere confronts challenges, relentless innovation promises a future brimming with even more efficient and compact transistor technologies.

Medical records information system based on prototyping model using automatic identifier NFC card

Radio Frequency Identification is a compact wireless technology that is superior and has been developed in the commercial and educational for example in automatic identification in the hospital patient registration. This research aims to improve patient registration services to be more practical during outpatient registration at hospitals. Currently, hospital outpatient registration is still carried out semi-computerized where patients come to the reception desk and then register by filling in a registration form. Next, the reception staff performs data entry from the registration form that has been filled in by the patient. If a lot of patients come, there will be a queue of patients because it takes quite a long time for the registration process. Based on the problems faced, this research carried out the development of a patient data management system using NFC cards which contain patient medical record number data. When a patient visits the hospital, the patient taps the medical record card and inputs the complaint and the doctor they are going to, then the patient gets a queue number for consultation, until the patient consults with a doctor and gets the medicine prescribed by the doctor through the use of the system. Testing the system by reading and writing data on the NFC card on the card reader/writer unit, the test results showed that the maximum reading distance for the NFC card was 7 cm with a reading angle relative to the NFC reader/writer with 300 can read the NFC card.

Compact spinning: a comprehensive review of the revolution in yarn manufacturing

Compact spinning has emerged as a contemporary spinning technology that has garnered significant attention due to its capacity to produce yarns with excellent properties. The strategy is a variation of conventional ring spinning that seeks to get rid of the spinning triangle while improving the uniformity, strength, and hairiness of the yarn. In compact spinning, fiber condensation is achieved by negative pressure airflow, which compresses the fibers and reduces their thickness. This results in a higher packing density of the fibers, leading to stronger and more uniform yarns. In this article, we provide a comprehensive overview of compact spinning technology, covering its principle, fiber condensation method, and the types of machines used. The quality of the yarn is greatly influenced by various systems and parameters such as lattice apron, air suction slot geometry, airflow fields, and twist mechanism employed in compact spinning. We present a compendium of the various developments established in studies on compact spinning, which could serve as a platform for developing new techniques in compact spinning for the production of high-quality yarns with low economic burdens. This review discusses compact spinning, two main systems, machines, influential parameters/peripherals, disadvantages, and the future prospects of compact spinning. Additionally, we provide a summary of previous research on compact spinning, highlighting its benefits and advantages over traditional ring spinning. Furthermore, we discuss the impact of guiding devices and lattice apron type on yarn quality. We also explore the potential of three-dimensional (3D) printing technology in enhancing the performance and design of compact spinning machines.

Design and simulation of rotating packed beds for an industrial acid gas enrichment process

Conventional packed beds are traditionally used for acid gas enrichment processes. Rotating packed beds (RPBs) are unique, compact and effective technology, which can easily replace conventional packed beds for process intensification purposes. Two scenarios are used to substitute Khangiran natural gas refinery enrichment column with a couple of specially designed RPBs. The first scheme mirrors the exact existing process, while the second scenario provides an additional rich solvent stream directly delivered to amine regeneration unit. Aspen Custom Modeler software is employed to perform the entire simulations. As expected, replacing conventional packed bed with RPBs can drastically reduce the geometries of the packed beds and leads to considerable decrease in lean amine consumption. The second scenario performs more adequately and reduces the lean methyl-diethanolamine (MDEA) flow rate entering the enrichment section from 6069 kmole/hr to 5100 kmole/hr. The required enrichment equipment volume is also reduced from 235 m3 to 7.7 m3 (<3% of original value) and the packing volume collapses about 78 folds (from 59 m3 to 0.75 m3). A thorough discussion is also provided on sensitivity analysis of the entire enrichment process versus various input variables (i.e.: RPBs rotational speeds, their operating pressures and the lean amine rate entering enrichment tower). Finally, the results of cost estimation revealed that using the second more optimal RPB scenario reduced both operating costs and captital investments by 15.4% and 85.4%, respectively.

RNA-based translation activators for targeted gene upregulation

Technologies capable of programmable translation activation offer strategies to develop therapeutics for diseases caused by insufficient gene expression. Here, we present “translation-activating RNAs” (taRNAs), a bifunctional RNA-based molecular technology that binds to a specific mRNA of interest and directly upregulates its translation. taRNAs are constructed from a variety of viral or mammalian RNA internal ribosome entry sites (IRESs) and upregulate translation for a suite of target mRNAs. We minimize the taRNA scaffold to 94 nucleotides, identify two translation initiation factor proteins responsible for taRNA activity, and validate the technology by amplifying SYNGAP1 expression, a haploinsufficiency disease target, in patient-derived cells. Finally, taRNAs are suitable for delivery as RNA molecules by lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) to cell lines, primary neurons, and mouse liver in vivo. taRNAs provide a general and compact nucleic acid-based technology to upregulate protein production from endogenous mRNAs, and may open up possibilities for therapeutic RNA research.

Effects of microchannel width on fluid flow and temperature uniformity

Compact, lightweight and efficient microchannel radiator technology has become an effective way to solve the heat dissipation of microelectronic devices. This article is oriented to the heat dissipation requirements of electronic chips. The heat transfer performance and pressure drop characteristic for microchannel heat exchangers with various widths are investigated in this article to obtain an optimal width design. Results show that for the microchannel with the same width, the mass flow rate in the middle channels is larger than that on both sides. The heat transfer can be enhanced and the uniformity of the temperature distribution is improved by increasing the channel width gradually from the central position. A width distribution expression for an optimal reduction percentage of the channel width is formulated using the performance evaluation criterion for non-uniform channels developed in this article. A wave form microchannel was used to validate the formula for optimal structure design, which shows that the formula is suitable for a different type of microchannel.

Doping-modulated lateral asymmetric Schottky diode as a high-performance self-powered synaptic device.

In the post-Moore era, the gradually saturated computational capability of conventional digital computers showing the opposite trend as the exponentially increasing data volumes imperatively required a platform or technology to break this bottleneck. Brain-inspired neuromorphic computing promises to inherently improve the efficiency of information processing and computation by means of the highly parallel hardware architecture to reduce global data transmission. Here, we demonstrate a compact device technology based on the barrier asymmetry to achieve zero-consumption self-powered synaptic devices. In order to tune the device behaviors, the typical chemical doping is used to tailor the asymmetry for energy harvesting. Finally, in our demonstrated devices, the open-circuit voltage (VOC) and power-conversion efficiency (PCE) can be modulated up to 0.77 V and 6%, respectively. Optimized photovoltaic features affords synaptic devices with an outstanding programming weight states, involving training facilitation, stimulus reinforce and consolidation. Based on self-powered system, this work further presents a highly available modulation scheme, which achieves excellent device behaviors while ensuring the zero-energy consumption.

Electrocoagulation flotation as a municipal wastewater (pre-)treatment technology: Effect of weather conditions and current density

Electrocoagulation (EC) is a promising compact alternative technology, despite its viability in municipal wastewater treatment (MWWT) is currently challenged by its energy-intensive and batch-mode operation. This study introduces an innovative continuous electrocoagulation flotation (ECF) design for MWWT. ECF shows promising pollutant removal efficiencies, with identical results using both iron (Fe) and aluminum (Al) anodes. At a current density (CD) of 120 A/m2, it achieved significant removals: 90% tCOD, 98% TP, 94% TSS, 60% BOD5, and 40% TN. Designed ECF is proposed as a pre-treatment step due to limited TN removal. The study investigated optimal ECF performance under varying weather conditions using CD ranges of 40, 80, and 120 A/m2. Both Fe and Al ECF outperformed in treating rainy weather (RW) and dry weather (DW) municipal wastewater (MWW). However, Al anode's super-faradaic behavior resulted in higher residual concentrations in effluent, (i.e., an average of 6.53–33.7 mg/L), and operational costs compared to Fe ECF. Optimized Fe ECF setting needs to be changed depending in the weather variation. Fe ECF achieved high removal rates for tCOD (94%) and TP (95%) in RW MWW at a low CD of 40 A/m2. Comparative to this, the optimum CD for treated DW MWW was between 40 and 80 A/m2, removing tCOD (71–73%) and TP (85–95%). Specifically, at these conditions, the operational expenses were respectively 0.47 ± 0.03 €/m3 (RW MWW), and 0.37 ± 0.02 €/m3 to 0.81 ± 0.04 €/m3 (DW MWW). Moreover, ECF enables resource recovery and a circular economy through anaerobic sludge digestion, with Fe ECF generating more biogas than Al.

Research progress and prospect of polymer dielectrics

With the increasing demand for energy, how to store and release energy efficiently and stably has become an urgent research topic. Polymer dielectrics have become a kind of ideal dielectric materials in electrostatic capacitors for energy storage due to their advantages of light weight, easy fabrication, low cost, and high breakdown strength. It has a wide application prospect in smart power grids, new energy vehicles, pulse power weapons, electromagnetic guns, and lasers. However, existing polymer dielectrics cannot simultaneously possess the characteristics of high energy density, high breakdown field intensity, high charge and discharge efficiency, and low dielectric loss, thus limiting the development of compact, efficient, and reliable electronic power technology. In addition, the inherent thermal/field charge injection, excitation, and transport phenomena of polymer dielectrics make the resistivity and dielectric energy storage properties of polymer dielectrics decrease sharply under the combined action of high temperature and high electric field. In order to optimize the energy storage performance of polymer dielectrics (including room temperature and high temperature dielectrics), it has been obtained excellent dielectric breakdown strength, energy storage density, energy storage charge, and discharge efficiency from polymer nanocomposites, polymer/small molecule composites, polymer/polymer blends, new synthetic polymers, multilayer polymers, and other material systems. Based on these material systems, this review summarizes and compares these material systems, points out their advantages and disadvantages including the key problems, and puts forward suggestions for the future research.