Modular Technology Research Articles

THE EFFECTIVENESS OF IMMERSIVE TECHNOLOGIES FOR FUTURE PROFESSIONAL EDUCATION

The research on the application of immersive technologies in education began relatively recently and the issue remains open. In order to modernize the learning process, educational simulators, simulators, and textbooks are being developed. Immersive technologies help to absolutely immerse in the learning process, interact with objects inaccessible in the usual reality, get used to acting in acute situations, and as a result - to improve the effectiveness of learning. The aim of the work is an empirical analysis of the methodological basis of the experience of using one of the artifacts and mercurial technologies - virtual reality. Despite the fact that virtual reality has recently been referred to ultra-modern technology, today virtual reality headsets are not a novelty of the technology, but mediators of knowledge. The use of virtual reality devices for immersive learning is becoming relevant and accessible. Methods - empirical research using systematic search, and comparative analysis of two pedagogical experiments involving artifacts. Results - it turned out that virtual reality seems to be as effective as previous technological tools used in education, and in certain specialties can contribute to better performance in learning. Practical significance - the results of the work may establish specific learning contexts in which virtual reality is more effective than others and may allow new educational opportunities, especially in shaky geopolitical situations. Virtual reality is a modular technology that adapts to all situations and allows the creation of extended learning materials. Nevertheless, it has proven to be more effective for certain specialties, such as the medical field.

Abstract 293: Identification of a predictive biomarker for liposomal nanoparticle delivery through pan-cancer pooled screening

Abstract Background: Nanoparticles are a modular technology with great promise for cancer treatment, but one obstacle for clinical implementation is a lack of predictive biomarkers to identify patient groups most likely to benefit from specific nanoformulations. We developed a massively parallel pooled screen to investigate genomic factors underlying NP-cancer cell engagement, and report here the identification of a predictive biomarker that is both formulation-specific and cancer lineage agnostic. Methods: We interrogated the interactions of 35 fluorescent nanoparticle formulations (15 liposomal and 25 polymeric) against 488 pooled, barcoded cancer cell lines using fluorescence-activated cell sorting and binned cells based on strength of association. After sequencing, the relative barcode abundance in each bin was used to generate an association score for each nanoparticle-cell line pair. We identified features predictive of NP-cancer cell association by interfacing this score with multi-omic data from the Cancer Cell Line Encyclopedia. Results: Using machine learning model predictions, we identified thousands of candidate biomarkers both across and within formulations. Expression of the lysosomal transporter SLC46A3 was the top ranked random forest feature for all liposome formulations and was prioritized for further study. Univariate analyses confirmed the significance of this candidate biomarker and indicated a negative relationship, such that low expression of SLC46A3 is highly correlated with high nanoparticle association. This inverse relationship held true across all 22 cancer lineages screened and was recapitulated in a non-pooled screen of 13 cancer cell lines with a range of native SLC46A3 expression. To determine whether modulating SLC46A3 expression is sufficient to negatively regulate uptake of liposomes, we developed a toolkit of engineered cell lines by knocking out SLC46A3 in high-expressing T47D cells and inducing overexpression in low-expressing LOXIMVI cells. Consistent with our hypothesis, we show that SLC46A3 expression is inversely correlated with uptake of liposomal, but not polymeric, nanoparticles. To evaluate the potential clinical utility of SLC46A3 as a biomarker, we tested in vivo delivery of an FDA-approved nanoparticle analog, the drug-free version of liposomal irinotecan, to LOXIMVI flank tumors via intratumoral injection and intravenous administration. For both administration methods, we show that low tumor expression of SLC46A3 correlates with significantly improved delivery of liposomal nanoparticles. Conclusions: We identified SLC46A3 as a negative regulator of liposomal nanoparticle delivery to cancer cells both in vitro and in vivo. Given that liposomal nanoparticles comprise the majority of FDA approvals for cancer indications, we propose SLC46A3 may be a clinically actionable biomarker for patient stratification. Citation Format: Joelle P. Straehla, Natalie Boehnke, Hannah Safford, Mustafa Kocak, Matthew G. Rees, Melissa Ronan, Danny Rosenberg, Charles H. Adelmann, Raghu R. Chivukula, Jaime H. Cheah, Hojun Li, Jennifer A. Roth, Angela N. Koehler, Paula T. Hammond. Identification of a predictive biomarker for liposomal nanoparticle delivery through pan-cancer pooled screening [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2022; 2022 Apr 8-13. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2022;82(12_Suppl):Abstract nr 293.

Pixelated sintering of α-Al2O3

The sintering of α-alumina by a brand new and innovative technique, called pixelated sintering (PS), is here studied. Densification and grain growth by PS of perfectly controlled granular compacts are analysed and compared to results obtained using Spark Plasma Sintering (SPS) and Pressure-Less SPS (PL-SPS). Materials are exposed to the same temperature profiles whatever the sintering technique used in order to assess the potential of PS in terms of microstructure control. It is shown that PS can be used as an alternative technique to SPS for fast sintering with the advantages of a much simpler and cost-effective set-up, as well as a better control of the localised heat input. PS also appears to be a very modular technology in the way it controls the temperature gradients allowing its implementation for multi-step sintering approaches, as well as for the fabrication of large and complex parts.

Rapid Evaluation and Response to Impacts on Critical End-Use Loads Following Natural Hazard-Driven Power Outages: A Modular and Responsive Geospatial Technology

The disparate nature of data for electric power utilities complicates the emergency recovery and response process. The reduced efficiency of response to natural hazards and disasters can extend the time that electrical service is not available for critical end-use loads, and in extreme events, leave the public without power for extended periods. This article presents a methodology for the development of a semantic data model for power systems and the integration of electrical grid topology, population, and electric distribution line reliability indices into a unified, cloud-based, serverless framework that supports power system operations in response to extreme events. An iterative and pragmatic approach to working with large and disparate datasets of different formats and types resulted in improved application runtime and efficiency, which is important to consider in real time decision-making processes during hurricanes and similar catastrophic events. This technology was developed initially for Puerto Rico, following extreme hurricane and earthquake events in 2017 and 2020, but is applicable to utilities around the world. Given the highly abstract and modular design approach, this technology is equally applicable to any geographic region and similar natural hazard events. In addition to a review of the requirements, development, and deployment of this framework, technical aspects related to application performance and response time are highlighted.

Augmented assistive technology: the importance of tailoring technology solutions for people living with dementia at home

This research investigates the benefits of personalised augmented assistive technology to support people living with dementia in their daily activities in the home. With the aim to achieve a tailored and person-centred technology solution for each participant, we discuss the challenges and potential benefits of Augmented Reality (AR) for people living with dementia. We highlight the need to take a human-centred design approach for this user group and demonstrate how AR technology should not drive the research focus in this challenging field but should instead be responsive to the needs and goals of stakeholders. The qualitative approach demonstrates the benefits of using modular technology for the shifting needs of individuals with dementia. The breadth of tailored solutions is described via two detailed participant stories. We discuss the multi-sensory dimensions of AR and how this is important to maintain and increase independence for the user group. We investigate the challenges and benefits of using technologies including Microsoft HoloLens, digital projectors, smart mirrors, Amazon Alexa, and aroma diffusers for assistive purposes.

Modular vehicle technology for emergency medical services

While advancements in vehicular and wireless communication technologies are shaping the future of our transportation system, emergency medical services (EMS) are not receiving enough research attention. Their operations are still plagued by response delays that can often be life-threatening. Dispatching and redeployment systems identify the best practices regarding the allocation of the resources to emergencies and stations. Yet, the existing systems are unfortunately insufficient, and there is a growing need to embrace new technological solutions. This research introduces a smart system for EMS by leveraging the modular vehicle technology initially developed for transit systems. The proposed system relies on the design of vehicular modules that can couple and decouple to transfer patients from one module to another during transport. A fleet of medical transport vehicles is deployed to cooperate with the life support vehicles by providing, for example, transport and hospital admission tasks, thus allowing life support vehicles to answer pending emergency calls earlier. This is especially useful when there is a large demand for EMS (e.g. under the COVID-19 pandemic or other disasters such as the recent explosion in Beirut). This paper introduces a mathematical programming model to determine the optimal assignment decisions in a deterministic setting. This work is a proof of concept that demonstrates the applicability of the modular vehicle technology to EMS, evaluating the upper bound EMS performance that can be ultimately reached. A sensitivity analysis is conducted to provide insights and recommendations that are useful when selecting the weighting coefficients for the optimization function, to ensure a more efficient implementation of the modular vehicle technology for EMS. Also, the results of a comparative analysis show that the proposed system can adapt and offer larger benefits, in terms of response times and times to hospital, as demand increases and/or resources become more limited.

Layout synthesis based on the modular principle of the element base of mechatronic technological complexes

The main shortcomings of modern technological machine-tool complexes are shown. They are: the lack of consideration of individual consumer needs and their insufficient flexibility that do not take into account the trend of rapid changes in the production program. A concept for the development of metal-cutting machine tools based on the principles of the modular technology is proposed. The created machine tool complexes are designed to satisfy the individual needs of consumers, while the flexibility of production equipment should ensure the transition to the manufacture of new parts and the replacement of the technological processing scheme by changing the processing modes, readjustment and reconfiguration of machines; the development of machine tools should be carried out simultaneously with the improvement of the technology of processing parts. Technological complexes should be created by the layout synthesis using the element base that should contain two groups of functional modules, technological and service, and the service purpose of the machine should include the range of both the manufactured surface modules with their characteristics and the modules of technological support.

Efficacy of Juncus maritimus floating treatment saltmarsh as anti-contamination barrier for saltwater aquaculture pollution control

Abstract Floating treatment saltmarsh (FTS) is a new concept proposed to name floating treatment wetlands made of estuarine halophytes especially engineered for the control of contamination in brackish and saline waterbodies. The first full-scale FTS was implemented in 2018 to create an anti-contamination barrier for saline aquaculture wastewater treatment in an estuarine tidal lagoon. Results of a two-year investigation validated ‘Phytobatea’ modular technology for floating wetlands implementation and operation. Juncus maritimus crossflow FTS efficiency on main mariculture wastewater constituents' removal under low hydraulic retention time was remarkable, i.e., total phosphorus (86%), total suspended solids (82%), biochemical oxygen demand (78%), total organic carbon (55%), turbidity (53%), Escherichia coli (30%), and dissolved oxygen increased (19%). Key features of the native halophyte Juncus maritimus were determined to ensure 75–100% survival under high water salinities up to 38 g/L. A scientific literature review confirmed strategic sectors' growing interest in Juncus maritimus as raw material, supporting its possible cultivation as an added-value by-product within integrated aquaculture systems. Plants' root systems colonization by crabs, shrimps, and young individuals of the critically endangered European eel (Anguilla anguilla), revealed the role of FTS for biodiversity conservation, and its potential as functional habitat, nursery, and refuge for aquatic fauna species in contaminated waterbodies.

Systematic Analysis and Characterization of Extreme Failure for IGCT in MMC-HVdc System—Part II: Failure Mechanism and Short Circuit Characteristics

Short circuit failure mode (SCFM) of integrated gate commutated thyristor (IGCT) under extreme failure is of vital importance in high voltage direct current power transmission based on modular multilevel converter technology. Due to the sealing housing package of IGCT, the short circuit mechanism is hard to be clarified. Considering this limitation, the current density changes in IGCT with different failure modes are studied under different current levels in a built integrated test system with the placed magnetic sensor array and thermal couple array. Then, the short circuit mechanism of failed IGCT is proposed based on the experimental results. IGCT with turn-<small>off</small> failure performs self-triggering effect due to the focused short current and increased temperature in the initial destruction area, which is usually located in a single position of the outer cathode rings. While IGCT with surge current failure shares the short current among multiple initial destruction areas, which are usually distributed evenly in the wafer area. Scanning electron microscope picture and energy dispersive X-Ray spectroscopy (EDX) analysis show that the formed conducting alloy has spread into the molybdenum plate deeply and the phenomenon of atom diffusion (molybdenum, silicon and aluminum) near the interface is observed. Finally, long term short circuit tests of more than 12&#x00A0;h with both turn-<small>off</small> failure and surge current failure under 3000&#x00A0;A prove the stable SCFM of IGCT.

PROCESSES OF FORMING INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION COMPETENCE OF SCHOOL TEACHERS

This scientific article is based on the principles of creating modular programs for the advanced training system for teaching staff in the field of information and communication technologies, which are determined by their own flexibility, openness, variability, multilevel, activity and independence of students. In order to increase the efficiency of the educational process, the ways of interaction of modular and other learning technologies, focused on students, were considered. An example of modular training, which was developed and applied in practice, is considered in detail. His contribution to the learning process is important not only for teachers, but also for students who will learn to apply their knowledge in different life situations.

Statistical device simulations of III-V nanowire resonant tunneling diodes as physical unclonable functions source

In this paper, utilising the non-equilibrium Green’s function (NEGF) formalism within the new device simulator NESS (Nano-Electronic Software Simulator) developed at the University of Glasgow’s Device Modelling Group, we present quantum mechanical simulations of current flow in double-barrier III-V GaAs-AlGaAs nanowire resonant tunneling diodes (RTDs). NESS is a fast and modular Technology Computer Aided Design (TCAD) tool with flexible architecture which can take into account various sources of statistical variability in nanodevices. The aim of this work is to show that, in the RTD devices with nano-scale dimensions, there is a direct correlation between the position and the numbers of random dopants and the key device parameters, e.g., position of the resonant-peak (VR) variations as well as the shape and number of peaks in the output current–voltage (I-V) characteristics. Such VR variability can be used as a quantum fingerprint which can provide robust security and hence can be used to deliver Physical Unclonable Functions (PUFs).

Design and Implementation of Low-Cost Phasor Measurement Unit: PhasorsCatcher

The need for Phasor Measurement Units (PMUs) is rising as renewable energy sources become more prevalent in power networks since the rate of change of frequency is being deteriorated. Appropriate and accurate network measurements are a requirement for the precise monitoring and control of the system. This paper presents a low-cost PMU development, the so-called PhasorsCatcher, for the frequency and rate of change of frequency measurements in power networks, using sufficient but straightforward modular and reconfigurable friendly technology for its implementation. The entire hardware design, schematics, and instrumentation components are shown. Moreover, the visualisation has been calibrated and verified through an experimentation set-up and the existing electrical and communication standards.

Pemberdayaan kelompok petani tambak ikan kakap putih (Lates calcarifer, Bloch) dengan menggunakan teknologi secara modular di Gampong Lancang Barat Kabupaten Aceh Utara (Empowerment of sea bass farmers group (Lates calcarifer) using modular technology in Lancang Barat Village, North Aceh District)

The purpose of this service activity is to increase the knowledge regarding white snapper cultivation using modular technology to the aquaculture farmer group in West Lancang Village, North Aceh District. This service activity used a survey, educative, participatory, and persuasive methods. This community service activity consists of several stages, namely: 1) counseling on white snapper cultivation techniques carried out in a modular manner starting from nursery to harvest 2) counseling on business analysis of white snapper, and 3) training on pond water quality measurement methods. The level of success and satisfaction of service participants was carried out using a questionnaire. Based on the analysis of the level of satisfaction and success, 80-90% of pond farmers are satisfied with this service activity. This service activity provides positive knowledge and motivation for pond farmers. In conclusion, this empowerment activity has a positive impact and increases the knowledge of pond farmers in cultivating white snappers with modular technology.

Modular zonal fluid sampling and pressure testing technology for production well

To accurately obtain development dynamic data such as zonal pressure and fluid parameters of each oil layer in the late development stage of a high water-cut old oilfield, a modular zonal sampling and testing technology with the characteristics of modularization, full electronic control and rapidity was proposed and developed. Lab testing and on-site testing was carried out. The modular zonal sampling and testing system is composed of 10 functional modules, namely ground control system, downhole power supply module, drainage pump, electronically controlled anchor, electronically controlled packer, electronically controlled sampler, magnetic positioning sub, terminal sub, adapter cable, and quick connector. Indoor tests have confirmed that the performance parameters of each module meet the design requirements. The downhole function modules of the system can withstand pressures up to 35 MPa and temperatures up to 85 °C. The rubber cylinder of the electronically controlled packer can withstand a pressure difference of more than 10 MPa. The electronically controlled anchor has an anchoring force of greater than 6.9 t, and can be forcibly detached in the event of an accident. The discharge pump has a displacement of 0.8 m3/d and a head of 500 m. The electronically controlled sampler can meet the requirement of taking 500 mL of sample in each of the 3 chambers. Field tests in Jilin Oilfield show that the system can realize rapid isolation and self-check of isolation of a certain production interval downhole, as well as layer-by layer pressure build-up test. The drainage pump can be used to discharge the mixed liquid between the upper and lower packers and near the wellbore to obtain real fluid samples of the tested formation interval. The data obtained give us better understanding on the pay zones in old oilfields, and provide important basis for development plan adjustment, reservoir stimulation, and EOR measures.

An Analysis of the Development of Modular Building Design Elements to Improve Thermal Performance of a Representative High Rise Residential Estate in the Coastline City of Famagusta, Cyprus

Passive design strategies can reduce heating and cooling demands with integration of more efficient building systems as well as the potential to integrate modular off-site construction technology and its technical systems to offset overall energy consumption. This study evaluates the energy performance of the nationally representative post-war social housing estate in the southeastern Mediterranean island of Cyprus where the weather is subtropical (Csa) and partly semi-arid (Bsh). This study employed a mixed methods research design approach which was based on a thorough field study that consisted of a questionnaire survey conducted with residents of the social housing estate in the hottest summer month of August, to explore the occupants’ thermal sensation votes (TSVs), their habitual adaptive behaviour, and home energy performance concurrently. On-site environmental monitoring was performed, and in-situ measurements of each occupied space were recorded to identify ‘neutral’ adaptive thermal comfort. The selected representative high-rise residential development was modelled using Integrated Environmental Solutions’ Virtual Environment (IES-VE) software, where extensive dynamic thermal simulations have been produced to assess existing energy performance and energy effectiveness of retrofitting strategies. The results demonstrated that a moderate–strong relationship was found between orientation and reasons for thermal discomfort (χ2 = 49,327, p &lt; 0.001, Cramer’s V = 0.405). Individual levels of thermal comfort were not limited to household socio-demographic characteristics, however; environmental factors were also determinants in the development of adaptive thermal-comfort theory. Furthermore, the occupants’ TSVs indicated that in a southeastern Mediterranean climate, 28.5 °C is considered a neutral temperature, and the upper limit of the indoor-air thermal-comfort range is 31.5 °C.

Classification of modern studies on the problem of training biology teachers

Modular learning technology is a better approach to distance learning than other systems, as a modular learning unit that combines all the necessary components of the educational and methodological complex and allows you to apply the knowledge and skills needed to perform the required level of professional activity. The structure of the curriculum as a key part of the specialist model will improve and change depending on market conditions and social order. This is done by operatively modifying the content of the module. In addition, the use of modular learning technology is the first step in building the content of education on the principle of problem, not on the principle of subject matter, in which the learner learns a complex module from different disciplines and forms his own position on the problem.

Injectable liposome-based supramolecular hydrogels for the programmable release of multiple protein drugs

Directing biological functions is at the heart of next-generation biomedical initiatives in tissue and immuno-engineering. However, the ambitious goal of engineering complex biological networks requires the ability to precisely perturb specific signaling pathways at distinct times and places. Using lipid nanotechnology and the principles of supramolecular self-assembly, we developed an injectable liposomal nanocomposite hydrogel platform to precisely control the release of multiple protein drugs. By integrating modular lipid nanotechnology into a hydrogel, we introduced multiple mechanisms of release based on liposome surface chemistry. To validate the utility of this system for multi-protein delivery, we demonstrated synchronized, sustained, and localized release of IgG antibody and IL-12 cytokine in vivo, despite the significant size differences between these two proteins. Overall, liposomal hydrogels are a highly modular platform technology with the ability the mediate orthogonal modes of protein release and the potential to precisely coordinate biological cues both in vitro and in vivo.

Технологии формирования умений деловой коммуникации на английском языке у студентов неязыковых вузов

The purpose of the study is to identify and analyze modern technologies for the formation of business communication skills in English among students of non-linguistic universities. The scientific novelty lies in the fact that the paper considers the features of the implementation of small talk technology in teaching business English to students of non-linguistic specialties. As a result, the relevance of the study of technologies for the formation of business communication skills among students of non-linguistic universities was established, the main components of the modular small talk technology were identified, the content of the educational material that contributes to the implementation of the identified components was analyzed.

A techno‐economic analysis framework for intensified modular systems

AbstractIn this work, a novel systematic techno‐economic analysis framework is proposed for costing intensified modular systems. Conventional costing techniques are extended to allow estimation of capital and operating costs of modular units. Economy of learning concepts are included to consider the effect of experience curves on purchase costs. Profitability measures are scaled with respect to production of a chemical of interest for comparison with plants of traditional scale. In the developed framework, a base case scenario is analyzed to identify the relevance of the economy of learning and cost parameters that are yet to be established for modular projects that will be deployed. Then, a sensitivity analysis step is conducted to define changes in relevant variables that benefit the construction of modular systems. In a final step, scenarios in which the modular technology presents break‐even and further reduction in cost are identified. A process model for a modular hydrogen unit is developed and used for demonstration of the proposed framework. In this application, process synthesis is carried out, including operability analysis for selection of feasible operating conditions. A comparison with a benchmark conventional steam methane reforming plant shows that the modular hydrogen unit can benefit from the economy of learning. A synthesized flowsheet for a modular steam methane reforming plant is used to map the decrease in natural gas price that must be needed for the plant to break even when compared to traditional technologies. Scenarios in which the natural gas price is low allow break‐even cost for both individual hydrogen units and the assembled modular plant. For such break‐even cases, the economy of learning must produce a reduction of 40% or less in capital cost when the natural gas price is under 0.02 US$/Sm3. This result suggests that the synthesized modular hydrogen process has potential to be economically feasible under these conditions. The developed tools can thus be used to accelerate the deployment and manufacturing of standardized modular energy systems.

Coupled Heat Power Operation of Smart Buildings via Modular Pumped Hydro Storage

Abstract In the United States, building sector is responsible for around 40% of total energy consumption and contributes about 40% of carbon emissions since 2012. Within the past several years, various optimization models and control strategies have been studied to improve buildings’ energy efficiency and reduce operational expenses under the constraints of satisfying occupants’ comfort requirements. However, the majority of these studies consider building electricity demand and thermal load being satisfied by unidirectional electricity flow from the power grid or on-site renewable energy generation to electrical and thermal home appliances. Opportunities for leveraging low-grade heat for electricity have largely been overlooked due to impracticality at small scale. In 2016, a modular pumped hydro storage technology was invented in Oak Ridge National Laboratory, named Ground Level Integrated Diverse Energy Storage (GLIDES). In GLIDES, employing high-efficiency hydraulic machinery instead of gas compressor/turbine, liquid is pumped to compress gas inside high-pressure vessel creating head on ground level. This unique design eliminates the geographical limitation associated with the existing state-of-the-art energy storage technologies. It is easy to be scaled for building level, community level, and grid level applications. By using this novel hydro-pneumatic storage technology, opportunities for leveraging low-grade heat in building can be economical. In this research, the potential of utilizing low-grade thermal energy to augment electricity generation of GLIDES is investigated. Since GLIDES relies on gas expansion in the discharge process and the gas temperature drops during this nonisothermal process, available thermal energy, e.g., from thermal storage, combined cooling, heat and power system (CCHP), can be utilized by GLIDES to counter the cooling effect of the expansion process and elevate the gas temperature and pressure and boost the roundtrip efficiency. Several groups of comparison experiments have been conducted, and the experimental results show that a maximum 12.9% cost saving could be achieved with unlimited heat source for GLIDES, and a moderate 3.8% cost improvement can be expected when operated coordinately with CCHP and thermal energy storage in a smart building.