Distinctive Capability Research Articles

.A multi-objective search-based approach for position and orientation deviations in assemblies with multiple non-ideal surfaces

Computing position and orientation deviations (PODs) considering non-ideal morphologies and local deformations of mating surfaces is a key challenge in controlling the performances of assembled mechanical products through tolerance analysis. However, existing computational models based on Skin Model Shapes face difficulty in handling the PODs for all types of assembly issues. This paper proposes a novel multi-objective search-based approach for POD computation on a conception of force equilibrium constraints. A multi-objective particle swarm optimization algorithm is employed to solve the multi-objective model, and the efficiency and accuracy of the proposed approach are tested and compared with the NSGA-II and FEM methods. To demonstrate its distinctive capability to deal with assembly issues with multiple non-ideal mating surfaces, the proposed approach is applied to assemblies with multiple planar and cylindrical surfaces. Finally, an application of predicting the coaxial accuracy of a fuel pump is carried out, and the capabilities of the proposed approach are further demonstrated.

Electrochemical Nanoimprinting of Colored Infrared Reflective Patterns for Radiative Heating

AbstractMetallic nanostructures hold immense promise for radiative heating technology because of their distinctive capability to simultaneously achieve high mid‐infrared reflectance and generate vibrant colors through structural or plasmonic effects. However, fabricating metallic nanostructures remains challenging using traditional top–down techniques. Here, the solid‐state superionic stamping (S4) process is demonstrated as a scalable and economical tool to electrochemically imprint metallic grid nano‐patterns onto flexible substrates. With precise control over grid width and length at the nanoscale, the S4 approach enables the fabrication of nano‐patterned grid coatings exhibiting a spectrum of colors. These coatings also show high mid‐infrared reflectance exceeding 80% at 9.5 µm, leading to radiative heating effects of 5.9 and 3.1 °C compared to bare skin and cotton, respectively. This work introduces a viable strategy for creating colored infrared‐reflective patterns, paving the way for diverse thermal management applications.

Role of Piezoelectricity in Disease Diagnosis and Treatment: A Review.

Because of their unique electromechanical coupling response, piezoelectric smart biomaterials demonstrated distinctive capability toward effective, efficient, and quick diagnosis and treatment of a wide range of diseases. Such materials have potentiality to be utilized as wireless therapeutic methods with ultrasonic stimulation, which can be used as self-powered biomedical devices. An emerging advancement in the realm of personalized healthcare involves the utilization of piezoelectric biosensors for a range of therapeutic diagnosis such as diverse physiological signals in the human body, viruses, pathogens, and diseases like neurodegenerative ones, cancer, etc. The combination of piezoelectric nanoparticles with ultrasound has been established as a promising approach in sonodynamic therapy and piezocatalytic therapeutics and provides appealing alternatives for noninvasive treatments for cancer, chronic wounds, neurological diseases, etc. Innovations in implantable medical devices (IMDs), such as implantable piezoelectric energy generator (iPEG), offer significant advantages in improving physiological functioning and ability to power a cardiac pacemaker and restore the heart function. This comprehensive review critically evaluates the role of piezoelectricity in disease diagnosis and treatment, highlighting the implication of piezoelectric smart biomaterials for biomedical devices. It also discusses the potential of piezoelectric materials in healthcare monitoring, tissue engineering, and other medical applications while emphasizing future trends and challenges in the field.

All-cellulose colloidal adhesive

At present, adhesives widely used in various industries are mainly synthesized from organic chemical raw materials, and research on replacing traditional chemical raw materials with renewable biomass resources to synthesize adhesives is urgently needed. Adhesives possessing colloidal properties are highly favored due to their distinctive self-assembly capability, and robust reinforcement effects. Here, using cellulose as the sole raw material and following a simple and inexpensive strategy, we prepare a high-performance all-cellulose colloidal adhesive that is resistant to boiling water. We achieve a dry-shear strength of 1.97 MPa with this adhesive and a bonding strength of 0.81 MPa after a cycle of boiling-drying-boiling. The curing mechanism of the adhesive are verified using molecular dynamics simulations. These all-cellulose colloidal adhesives demonstrate great potential to replace traditional adhesives in the near future.

Theory of Resource-Based View (RBV): Integrated Framework of Distinctive Capability in University Performance

Theory of Resource-Based View (RBV): Integrated Framework of Distinctive Capability in University Performance

Voxelated bioprinting of modular double-network bio-ink droplets

Analogous of pixels to two-dimensional pictures, voxels—in the form of either small cubes or spheres—are the basic building blocks of three-dimensional objects. However, precise manipulation of viscoelastic bio-ink voxels in three-dimensional space represents a grand challenge in both soft matter science and biomanufacturing. Here, we present a voxelated bioprinting technology that enables the digital assembly of interpenetrating double-network hydrogel droplets made of polyacrylamide/alginate-based or hyaluronic acid/alginate-based polymers. The hydrogels are crosslinked via additive-free and biofriendly click reaction between a pair of stoichiometrically matched polymers carrying norbornene and tetrazine groups, respectively. We develop theoretical frameworks to describe the crosslinking kinetics and stiffness of the hydrogels, and construct a diagram-of-state to delineate their mechanical properties. Multi-channel print nozzles are developed to allow on-demand mixing of highly viscoelastic bio-inks without significantly impairing cell viability. Further, we showcase the distinctive capability of voxelated bioprinting by creating highly complex three-dimensional structures such as a hollow sphere composed of interconnected yet distinguishable hydrogel particles. Finally, we validate the cytocompatibility and in vivo stability of the printed double-network scaffolds through cell encapsulation and animal transplantation.

Unconventional Dually-Mobile Superrepellent Surfaces.

The ability of water droplets to move freely on superrepellent surfaces is a crucial feature that enables effective liquid repellency. Common superrepellent surfaces allow free motion of droplets in the Cassie state, with the liquid resting on the surface textures. However, liquid impalement into the textures generally leads to a wetting transition to the Wenzel state and droplet immobilization on the surface, thereby destroying the liquid repellency. This study reports the creation of a novel type of superrepellent surface through rational structural control combined with liquid-like surface chemistry, which allows for the free movement of water droplets and effective repellency in both the Cassie and Wenzel states. Theoretical guidelines for designing such surfaces are provided, and experimental results are consistent with theoretical analysis. Furthermore, this work demonstrates the enhanced ice resistance of the dually-mobile superrepellent surfaces, along with their distinctive self-cleaning capability to eliminate internal contaminants. This study expands the understanding of superrepellency and offers new possibilities for the development of repellent surfaces with exceptional anti-wetting properties.

Humidity-Responsive Liquid Metal Core-Shell Materials for Enduring Heat Retention and Insulation.

High humidity in extremely cold weather can undermine the insulation capability of the clothing, imposing serious life risks. Current clothing insulation technologies have inherent deficiencies in terms of insulation efficiency and humidity adaptability. Here, humidity-stimulated self-heating clothing using aluminum core-liquid metal shell microparticles (Al@LM-MPs) as the filler is reported. Al@LM-MPs exhibit a distinctive capability to react to water molecules in the air to generate heat, exhibiting remarkable sensitivity across a broad temperature range. This ability leads to the creation of intelligent clothing capable of autonomously responding to extreme cold and wet weather conditions, providing both enduring heat retention and insulation capabilities.

Current Perspectives on Extensive Applications of Nanocochleates-based Drug Delivery

Abstract: Enhancing therapeutic efficacy stands as a pivotal concern across various medical conditions. Traditional therapeutic approaches have encountered limitations in addressing numerous issues. Over the recent years, the integration of nanotechnology has successfully overcome these obstacles, ushering in a new era of advanced treatment modalities. One notable stride has been the utilization of lipid-based nanocarriers, which have demonstrated substantial improvements in therapeutic outcomes. Among these innovative drug delivery systems (lipid-based), nanocochleates have emerged as the focal point for augmenting therapeutic potential and enabling targeted actions. Originally employed for vaccines, genes, and fungal infections, nanocochleates have evolved to address significant life-threatening diseases where conventional therapies fall short. The distinctive capability of nanocochleates lies in their ability to deliver drugs with enhanced precision in comparison with supplementary lipid-based systems, making them a promising novel carrier for improved efficacy. This piece of writing delves into the fundamentals of nanocochleates, exploring their safety and stability aspects, recent trends, and diverse applications. Notably, nanocochleates have shown promise in managing conditions such as diabetes mellitus, malaria, leishmaniasis, cancer, viral infections, and osteoporosis. By elucidating the unique attributes and potential of nanocochleates, this review aims to contribute valuable insights into their role as a cutting- edge drug delivery system across a spectrum of critical medical scenarios

Ethics Perspective of Quality Accounting Information and Future Certainty: A Pattern of Rationally Perceived Decision

Purpose: This research tested the distinctive capability of detecting misleading information when real earnings have positively stimulated the smooth movement of the market price. Methodology/approach: This causal research used the primary data from the investor community in 2022, which amounted to 3.242 respondents for running SEM and endogeneity testing; FGD has been the fittest validation process for capturing the rationality models. Findings: High consistency of integrity-characteristic played a crucial role in designing a prudent accounting treatment which indicates the ethics code related to highly sustainable business during an uncertain future global economy. Inevitably, a measurement of trust in high earning quality pointed out that this quality measurement is to protect this investment decision in a highly secured, safe area. Practical implications: One centralized platform of financial reporting services should support the attractiveness of obedience and compliance as an incomparable advantage of positive earnings management. High-prospected firms should be assessed by high-quality accounting information; the delisting procedure has been prioritized firmly for low-prospect ones. Originality/value: This research explores the pattern of predictive simulation modeling as the existence of game theory, adapted from simplex-linear programming; this rationality model has strengthened as a fundamental requirement to illustrate high future certainty.

Advances in the application of stereo vision in aquaculture with emphasis on fish: A review

AbstractThe effective implementation of machine vision has played a crucial role in advancing intelligent aquaculture across various domains. Stereo vision, as a branch of machine vision, has become a mainstream technology in aquaculture. Its distinctive capability to conduct comprehensive underwater monitoring from multiple angles, unaffected by object occlusion has propelled it to the forefront of aquaculture applications. This article offers a comprehensive review of the diverse applications of stereo vision in aquaculture spanning from its inception to present. The exploration encompasses its role in crucial areas such as biomass estimation and behavioural analysis, which include fish counting, weight estimation, swimming behaviour, feeding behaviour and abnormal behaviour. Furthermore, the paper delves into the advantages of stereo vision over traditional 2D machine vision approaches, while also acknowledging limitations, and identifying future challenges that must be addressed to fully leverage its potential in aquaculture. The review emphasizes the prospect of advancement in deep learning stereo‐matching algorithms specifically designed for underwater environments to catalyse a breakthrough in stereo vision technology. In summary, this review aims to provide researchers and practitioners with a better understanding of the current development of stereo vision in aquaculture, optimizing stereo vision technology and better serving the aquaculture field.

Solid lubrication performance of multi-layered V2CTx coatings

MXenes induce excellent wear resistance under solid lubrication due to their distinctive surface chemistry, easy-to-shear ability, and capability to form low-friction and wear-resistant tribofilms. However, beyond the extensively studied Ti3C2Tx, other promising members of the MXene family remain largely underexplored. Therefore, we spray-coated multi-layer vanadium carbide (V2CTx) coatings (thickness ∼10.8 μm) on steel substrates and studied their tribological performance for prolonged times (10,000 cycles) using a reciprocating ball-on-disk tribometer with acting contact pressure of 445 MPa in ambient conditions. Results show that V2CTx-coated substrates demonstrate an 8-fold reduction in friction (COF of 0.11) and a 10-fold wear rate reduction (1.405 × 10−6 mm3 N−1 m−1). High-resolution materials characterization confirmed that the remarkable tribological performance of these coatings can be traced back to the formation of protective films on the substrate (tribofilm) and counterbody (transferfilm) consisting of contact pressure and frictional heat-induced degraded, deformed, exfoliated V2CTx nanosheets, nanocrystalline oxides, and amorphous carbon debris. This work fully elucidates the tribological potential of V2CTx, which is of utmost relevance for designing high-performance lubricating materials. Our work has assessed the performance of multi-layer V2CTx (M2XTx) due to its remarkable thermal stability, low molecular weight, good mechanical properties, and high interlayer spacing, thus serving as an entry point into diverse MXene compositions, including M4X3Tx (V4C3Tx).

A Comprehensive Analysis of the Reliability of Electric Vehicle Motor Systems: Exploring the Intricacies of Performance and Durability

Electric vehicles (EVs) have garnered significant attention in recent years due to their distinctive zero carbon emission capability. While their environmental advantages are widely acknowledged, concerns about the reliability of key components, particularly the drive motors and associated controllers, continue to linger. Previous studies have made strides in evaluating the reliability of individual drive motors in EVs. However, given the integrated nature of drive motors and motor controllers in EVs, a comprehensive assessment that considers both components as a unified system is imperative for more precise reliability forecasting. Furthermore, the multifaceted nature of drive motors and motor controllers, encompassing various components with diverse structures, types, and characteristics, can significantly influence the overall reliability of the motor system. Unfortunately, these nuances have often been overlooked in prior research, creating a knowledge gap that needs to be addressed. To address this gap, our study offers a holistic investigation into the reliability of the entire motor system in pure electric vans, which includes both the drive motors and motor controllers. We initiate our research by employing theoretical models to predict the failure rates of individual subassemblies and components within the drive motor and motor controller. Building upon these predictions, we conduct an in-depth assessment of the overall motor system reliability. Our findings reveal the vulnerabilities associated with specific subassemblies and components within the motor system, offering critical insights that challenge some of the prevailing assumptions in existing reliability research. These insights are instrumental in guiding future advancements in reliability design and maintenance practices tailored for pure electric vans. The adoption of EVs continues to grow, driven by their environmental benefits and expanding market share, it becomes increasingly crucial to address concerns related to the reliability of essential components like drive motors and control systems. While previous research has largely focused on component-level reliability, our study adopts a more comprehensive approach, evaluating the entire motor system. Through a combination of theoretical modeling and empirical analysis, we aim to provide a robust framework for predicting failure rates and enhancing the overall reliability of EV motor systems. By uncovering vulnerabilities and potential areas for improvement, this research offers valuable insights to advance the design, development, and maintenance of reliable electric vehicles.

Modelling and simulation of MR damper characterization and uncertainty assessment in marine engine vibration isolation with FLPID control

ABSTRACT This paper meticulously examines the magneto-rheological (MR) damper to exploring its application in a semi-active isolator system. The MR damper’s distinctive capability to regulate damping force through an externally applied magnetic field is investigated via extensive experimental testing. Sinusoidal displacement inputs with varying electromagnet currents reveal a direct correlation between higher current levels and augmented MR damper forces. Validation of the experimental results is achieved through the Viscous Plus Dahl Model, showcasing its accuracy in capturing the damper’s hysteresis behavior. The study extends its scope to practical implementation by integrating the MR damper into a marine diesel engine system. A fuzzy logic-based self-tuning PID controller collaborates with the MR damper to establish a semi-active vibration isolator. The integrated model, encompassing primary and secondary masses, the engine, and the isolator with passive and semi-active systems, is rigorously analyzed. Experimental validation and theoretical simulations, aligned with data gathered from experiments, affirm the model’s fidelity in representing the MR damper. Simulation outcomes underscore the significant enhancement in vibration reduction characteristics of the semi-active isolator system compared to its passive counterpart, particularly evident in the improved performance of the 1200 kg engine under diverse operating conditions.

Acoustic Actuators for the Manipulation of Micro/Nanorobots: State-of-the-Art and Future Outlooks.

Compared to other actuating methods, acoustic actuators offer the distinctive capability of the contactless manipulation of small objects, such as microscale and nanoscale robots. Furthermore, they have the ability to penetrate the skin, allowing for the trapping and manipulation of micro/nanorobots that carry therapeutic agents in diverse media. In this review, we summarize the current progress in using acoustic actuators for the manipulation of micro/nanorobots used in various biomedical applications. First, we introduce the actuating method of using acoustic waves to manipulate objects, including the principle of operation and different types of acoustic actuators that are usually employed. Then, applications involving manipulating different types of devices are reviewed, including bubble-based microrobots, bubble-free robots, biohybrid microrobots, and nanorobots. Finally, we discuss the challenges and future perspectives for the development of the field.

Aminoguanidine-based bioactive proligand as AIEE probe for anticancer and anticovid studies.

The emission features of a novel bioactive compound, 1,3-bis(2-hydroxy-3,5-diiodophenyl-methylideneamino)guanidine is found impressive with aggregation induced emission enhancement. The nitrogen and iodine rich multidentate proligand was characterized physicochemically. SCXRD and Hirshfeld surface investigation have revealed the presence of significant triangular iodine bonding apart from hydrogen bonding, weak C-H⋯π and π⋯π intermolecular interactions. These interactions collectively contribute to the solid-state packing arrangement of the molecules within the crystal lattice. The band gap of the compound was estimated experimentally and is supported with theoretical calculations. The solid-state fluorescence quantum yield of Φ = 0.36 emphasizes the utility of the proligand and the AIEE characteristics is attributed to restricted intramolecular motions as indicated by fluorescence lifetime decay studies. Strong interaction of the compound with calf thymus DNA was explored experimentally and found to align with in silico docking results. Notably, in vitro anticancer assessment on MCF-7 breast cancer cells show an IC50 value of 181.05 μg mL-1 and signifying its potent cytotoxic properties. Also, the compound is found to have lesser cytotoxicity against L929 normal cell line with an IC50 value of 356.54 μg mL-1. Computational studies further underscore the exceptional binding affinity with active sites in the SARS-CoV-2 main protease 3CLpro, surpassing established repurposed drugs. Furthermore, the proligand demonstrates excellent putative affinity towards the SARS-CoV-2 spike glycoprotein, accompanied by its distinctive AIEE attributes, drug likeness and DNA binding capability rendering it a valuable tool for prospective research investigations.

Comprehensive analysis of bioactive compounds in Crocus sativus stamens extracts by HPLC-DAD: investigating antidiabetic activity via in vitro, in vivo, and molecular docking simulation.

Introduction: Medicinal herbs used in traditional diabetes treatment are a rich source of anti-diabetic compounds. Pancreatic α-amylase inhibitors offer an effective strategy to reduce postprandial hyperglycemic levels via control of starch degradation. In this context, our study for the first time investigates the effect of Crocus sativus stamens extracts on α-amylase inhibition. Material and methods: The hydromethanolic and hydroethanolic extracts were obtained by macerating the dried stamen powder with methanol/water or ethanol/water, respectively. The total phenolic content of the stamen extracts was assessed using the Folin-Ciocalteu reagent method, while the total flavonoid content was determined using the Aluminum Chloride method. Phytochemicals were further quantified and identified using HPLC-DAD. For evaluation of hypoglycemic activity, in vitro α-amylase enzyme inhibition was calculated. The results were confirmed in vivo using an oral starch tolerance test in both normal and diabetic rats. Results: Our findings demonstrated a higher level of polyphenols and flavonoids in the hydroethanolic extract. Important flavonoids found were kaempferol, rutin, and vanillic acid, while prominent carotenoids contained trans- and cis-crocins. The in vitro study showed that both hydromethanolic and hydroethanolic extracts had considerable inhibitory effects, with maximum inhibitions of approximately 83% and 89%, respectively. In vivo tests indicated that both extracts effectively lowered peak blood glucose and area under the curve in both normal and diabetic rats following oral starch treatment. The obtained results are also supported by a docking study. Conclusion: These findings imply that C. sativus stamens possess a distinctive capability to reduce postprandial blood glucose levels. This effect is likely mediated through the inhibition of α-amylase, presenting a novel dietary avenue for managing diabetes.

Neuroelectronics as neuromorphic and neurohybryd systems enabled by memristive technology

Due to its distinctive capability to replicate vital functions of synapses and neurons, memristive devices and arrays enable both the hardware implementation of neural networks and a significant advancement towards integrating artificial electronic and biological systems to address pressing issues in artificial intelligence (AI), robotics, and medicine. This research area is still nascent and can be viewed as part of the broader field of neuroelectronics. The aforementioned is a fusion of analog and digital solutions used for diverse computational tasks inspired by biology. Notably, analog neuromorphic systems that employ memristive components are distinctive features of this arena and they can significantly enhance throughput and energy efficiency in contrast to existing AI accelerators. Designing neuromorphic systems grounded on this fresh component base mandates coordinated and interdisciplinary research and development. The foundation of this scientific and technological field lies in the cross-cutting technology of memristive devices and circuits. This technology enables the development of a novel brain-like information and computing system infrastructure that can be applied in a diverse range of fields. Current perspectives include the seamless integration of memristive devices and arrays with CMOS circuits, and the co-optimization of materials, devices, and architectures to create prototypes for computing and information systems. These systems replicate computational features present in biological neural networks capable of solving cognitive tasks that are typically either intractable by traditional AI or highly time-consuming. Neuroelectronic solutions can integrate with the brain or living neuronal cultures to form neurohybrid systems. In this presentation, we discuss two distinct strategies for connecting memristive systems with biological neural networks both in vitro and in vivo. These include a perceptron using an array of programmable memristive weights represented by metal-oxide resistive-switching devices and a methodology leveraging memristive stochastic plasticity and neural synchrony, which is part of the brain’s spiking architecture. Finally, the concept of a memristive neurohybrid chip is presented to create a compact, multifunctional, bidirectional interface between biological neural networks and memristive electronics, combined with microelectrode and microfluidic systems on a single chip. The technological advancements in component base and the development of memristor-based neuroelectronic systems will diversify hardware for the continuous evolution and mass application of artificial intelligence technologies. This will enable the creation of hybrid intelligence based on the symbiosis of artificial and biological neural networks and allow for the establishment of novel tasks at an unprecedented level.

Dual-mode tunable absorber based on quasi-bound states in the continuum.

In this Letter, we propose a novel, to the best of our knowledge, dual-mode tunable absorber that utilizes quasi-bound states in the continuum (q-BIC) based on the periodically arranged silicon cylinders tetramer. By introducing asymmetry perturbation through manipulating the diameters of diagonal cylinders in the all-dielectric structure, the symmetry-protected BIC (SP-BIC) transforms into q-BIC, leading to the emergence of one transmission and one reflection Fano-like resonant mode. The relationship between the quality factor of each mode and the asymmetry parameter α is analyzed, revealing an exponential dependence with an exponent of -1.75, i.e., Q ∝ α-1.75. To explain the underlying physics, multipole decomposition analysis and Aleksandra's theory are applied. Subsequently, a monolayer graphene is introduced to the all-dielectric structure to demonstrate the application of the dual-mode tunable absorber. When the critical coupling condition is satisfied, each mode can achieve the theoretical maximum absorption, demonstrating the distinctive capability of our proposed absorber for tuning and efficient light absorption. This research provides valuable insights into light-matter interactions and opens up possibilities for optical modulation and the development of graphene-based devices.

STOmicsDB: a comprehensive database for spatial transcriptomics data sharing, analysisand visualization.

Recent technological developments in spatial transcriptomics allow researchers to measure gene expression of cells and their spatial locations at the single-cell level, generating detailed biological insight into biological processes. A comprehensive database could facilitate the sharing of spatial transcriptomic data and streamline the data acquisition process for researchers. Here, we present the Spatial TranscriptOmics DataBase (STOmicsDB), a database that serves as a one-stop hub for spatial transcriptomics. STOmicsDB integrates 218 manually curated datasets representing 17 species. We annotated cell types, identified spatial regions and genes, and performed cell-cell interaction analysis for these datasets. STOmicsDB features a user-friendly interface for the rapid visualization of millions of cells. To further facilitate the reusability and interoperability of spatial transcriptomic data, we developed standards for spatial transcriptomic data archiving and constructed a spatial transcriptomic data archiving system. Additionally, we offer a distinctive capability of customizing dedicated sub-databases in STOmicsDB for researchers, assisting them in visualizing their spatial transcriptomic analyses. We believe that STOmicsDB could contribute to research insights in the spatial transcriptomics field, including data archiving, sharing, visualizationand analysis. STOmicsDB is freely accessible at https://db.cngb.org/stomics/.