Measurement Principle Research Articles

Metadata stewardship in nanosafety research: learning from the past, preparing for an “on-the-fly” FAIR future

Introduction:Significant progress has been made in terms of best practice in research data management for nanosafety. Some of the underlying approaches to date are, however, overly focussed on the needs of specific research projects or aligned to a single data repository, and this “silo” approach is hampering their general adoption by the broader research community and individual labs.Methods:State-of-the-art data/knowledge collection, curation management FAIrification, and sharing solutions applied in the nanosafety field are reviewed focusing on unique features, which should be generalised and integrated into a functional FAIRification ecosystem that addresses the needs of both data generators and data (re)users.Results:The development of data capture templates has focussed on standardised single-endpoint Test Guidelines, which does not reflect the complexity of real laboratory processes, where multiple assays are interlinked into an overall study, and where non-standardised assays are developed to address novel research questions and probe mechanistic processes to generate the basis for read-across from one nanomaterial to another. By focussing on the needs of data providers and data users, we identify how existing tools and approaches can be re-framed to enable “on-the-fly” (meta) data definition, data capture, curation and FAIRification, that are sufficiently flexible to address the complexity in nanosafety research, yet harmonised enough to facilitate integration of datasets from different sources generated for different research purposes. By mapping the available tools for nanomaterials safety research (including nanomaterials characterisation, nonstandard (mechanistic-focussed) methods, measurement principles and experimental setup, environmental fate and requirements from new research foci such as safe and sustainable by design), a strategy for integration and bridging between silos is presented. The NanoCommons KnowledgeBase has shown how data from different sources can be integrated into a one-stop shop for searching, browsing and accessing data (without copying), and thus how to break the boundaries between data silos.Discussion:The next steps are to generalise the approach by defining a process to build consensus (meta)data standards, develop solutions to make (meta)data more machine actionable (on the fly ontology development) and establish a distributed FAIR data ecosystem maintained by the community beyond specific projects. Since other multidisciplinary domains might also struggle with data silofication, the learnings presented here may be transferrable to facilitate data sharing within other communities and support harmonization of approaches across disciplines to prepare the ground for cross-domain interoperability.

Introduction to Python Dynamic Diffraction Toolkit (PyDDT): structural refinement of single crystals via X-ray phase measurements.

PyDDT is a free Python package of computer codes for exploiting X-ray dynamic multiple diffraction in single crystals. A wide range of tools are available for evaluating the usefulness of the method, planning feasible experiments, extracting phase information from experimental data and further improving model structures of known materials. Graphical tools are also useful in analytical methodologies related to the three-dimensional aspect of multiple diffraction. For general X-ray users, the PyDDT tutorials provide the insight needed to understand the principles of phase measurements and other related methodologies. Key points behind structure refinement using the current approach are presented, and the main features of PyDDT are illustrated for amino acid and filled skutterudite single crystals.

Corrosion monitoring of reinforced concrete structures: The DGZfP specification B12 Collaboration

AbstractCorrosion monitoring of reinforced or prestressed concrete structures has become increasingly important in recent years. Areas of application include components that are no longer accessible after completion or where potential field measurements cannot be carried out due to existing coatings. Corrosion monitoring can also be used to monitor the progress of corrosion in corroding systems, e.g. to prove the success of repair measures according to repair principle 8 in accordance with EN 1504‐9 or repair method 8.3 in accordance with the DIBt repair guideline. It also could be used to prove the functionality of cathodic corrosion protection systems in accordance with ISO 12696. Despite the increasing importance of corrosion monitoring, no guidelines or recommendations existed until 2018. This gap was closed by the English version of specification B12, “Corrosion Monitoring of Reinforced and Prestressed Concrete Structures,” of the German Society for Non‐Destructive Testing, which was published in 2021. This article introduces specification B12 by explaining the basic measurement principles and illustrating the potential of corrosion monitoring in new and existing buildings.

Reliable, versatile and remotely controlled instrumentation of an hectometric loop antenna using appropriate technologies

The instrumentation of a giant loop antenna dedicated to environmental measurement, on a unique scientific site and intended to be open to the scientific community is presented. An open-source, low-cost electronic system has been designed, developed, and deployed in order to meet the need for reliability and flexibility imposed respectively by the harsh environment and the scientific objectives. The system’s architecture is based on the simultaneous association of five Arduino boards piloted together by a Raspberry Pi which also controls the measurement devices. The setup is therefore automated, pilotable, and remotely reprogrammable. Special attention was paid to its hardware and software reliability. These have been proven efficient over more than two years of operation. Several scientific conference publications have already proven the feasibility of the measurement principle (Dezord et al., 2021; Dezord et al., 2022; Dezord et al., 2022). This article gives previously unpublished details regarding the electronic setup.

Intrinsic Fluorescence Markers for Food Characteristics, Shelf Life, and Safety Estimation: Advanced Analytical Approach.

Food is a complex matrix of proteins, fats, minerals, vitamins, and other components. Various analytical methods are currently used for food testing. However, most of the used methods require sample preprocessing and expensive chemicals. New analytical methods are needed for quick and economic measurement of food quality and safety. Fluorescence spectroscopy is a simple and quick method to measure food quality, without sample preprocessing. This technique has been developed for food samples due to the application of a front-face measuring setup. Fluorescent compounds-fluorophores in the food samples are highly sensitive to their environment. Information about molecular structure and changes in food samples is obtained by the measurement of excitation-emission matrices of the endogenous fluorophores and by applying multivariate chemometric tools. Synchronous fluorescence spectroscopy is an advantageous screening mode used in food analysis. The fluorescent markers in food are amino acids tryptophan and tyrosine; the structural proteins collagen and elastin; the enzymes and co-enzymes NADH and FAD; vitamins; lipids; porphyrins; and mycotoxins in certain food types. The review provides information on the principles of the fluorescence measurements of food samples and the advantages of this method over the others. An analysis of the fluorescence spectroscopy applications in screening the various food types is provided.

MANAGEMENT RESEARCH METHODS

This reference is a comprehensive and valuable resource for both novice and experienced researchers in the field of management. Published by Cambridge University Press, the book guides readers through the entire research process, covering essential aspects such as research design, data collection methods, measurement techniques, data analysis, and ethical considerations. It provides a wealth of knowledge and practical insights to conduct management research effectively. The review aims to provide an in-depth analysis of the book's content and its significance in the field. The authors introduce fundamental research concepts, emphasizing the importance of clear research questions and hypotheses, and delve into research paradigms and ethics, thus laying a solid foundation for readers. Furthermore, the book explores various research designs, data collection methods, and measurement principles, equipping researchers with essential tools for their studies. In Section 5, data analysis is discussed, covering both quantitative and qualitative techniques, and presented in an easy-to-understand manner. The final section emphasizes the importance of ethical considerations and effective communication in reporting research results. Overall, the book serves as an indispensable resource, catering to a diverse audience and promoting ethical research practices in the management domain.

A virtual flow meter downstream of various elbow configurations

When flow meters are installed in disturbed flow conditions caused by pipe configurations such as junctions or elbows, significant measurement errors can occur. With existing knowledge of the flow conditions, those errors can be corrected using suitable calibration factors. This paper presents a surrogate model based on computational fluid dynamics simulation results that can predict velocity profiles downstream of single and double elbows in- and out-of-plane. The simulated flow profiles are decomposed into a fully-developed and a disturbed part, which allows changing the Reynolds number and roughness of the pipe wall without performing additional simulations. Furthermore, proper orthogonal decomposition and interpolation using piecewise linear splines enables the real-time evaluation of the model for a wide range of curvature radii and distances between the elbows. By incorporating a measurement principle, calibration factors for different flow meter designs can be predicted. The model is validated on the example of an ultrasonic flow meter by comparison with measurement data obtained from a clamp-on flow meter.

Design and Implementation of Temperature-sensitive Particle Temperature Measuring Structure in Microchannel

Any physical change or chemical reaction is closely related to temperature. Especially in the context of microscale continuous flow, the uniform temperature distribution affects the whole process of the reaction, so it is very important to detect the temperature in the microsystem. Temperature-sensitive particle temperature measurement is a kind of micro-scale non-contact temperature measurement. At present, the temperature-sensitive particle temperature measurement technology is mainly based on the direct design of experiments based on non-simulation. Starting from the microscopic point of view, this paper firstly analyzes the principle of fluorescence temperature measurement, establishes the consistency between the temperature-luminescence intensity relationship and the force-luminescence intensity relationship, and then uses the simulation software to build a microchannel temperature measurement model to analyze the temperature measurement effect of the selected temperature-sensitive particles. By comparing the Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulation results, the design of a non-contact particle temperature measuring structure inside the micro-channel is realized, which provides a feasible method in simulation.

Identification of overloads on splined shafts by means of eddy current testing technology

For the development of resource-efficient machines, the availability of high-quality information about the actual loads that occur is a key prerequisite. By continuously monitoring the loads on the component, critical events can be detected, and thus component failure prevented. Future product generations can also be designed in a resource-saving way depending on the loads that actually occur. The information is most useful when it is obtained directly from the highly loaded areas of the component. In this study, a concept is presented that enables in-situ detection of mechanical overloads on splined shafts by eddy current techniques. Splined shaft connections are among the most heavily stressed machine elements in the drive train and are usually located centrally in the powertrain. To monitor mechanical overloads, a material-integrated sensor will be developed. The structural change that takes place in the sensor as a result of overloads can be monitored with the help of eddy current testing technology. To ensure permanent monitoring of the sensor area, a compact eddy current testing system has to be integrated into the component. This consists of a printed circuit board coil, an evaluation unit, a data transmission module and an energy-harvesting module. The measurement principle for the stainless steels employed is based on the microstructural transformation from metastable austenite to martensite when the material is stressed beyond a threshold value. The threshold at which the structural transformation occurs can individually be adjusted in the sensor area by a local laser heat treatment.

Research Progress of Dynamic Measurement Technology of Atom Gravimeter

After more than 30 years of development, the measurement performance of atom gravimeters in the laboratory has reached a high level. More and more compact, small, portable instruments begin to appear, and field measurements have been conducted gradually. At present, the field measurements of atom gravimeters are mostly static or “stop-and-go” quasi-dynamic experiments, and the research on dynamic measurement is still in its infancy. High-precision absolute gravity dynamic surveying in the field has shown attractive prospects in many aspects, and many researchers have carried out research on it. This paper first reviews the main research work of the atom gravimeter, especially its dynamic measurement technology. Then it introduces the reported principle, scheme, and equipment of atom gravimeter dynamic measurement. The generation mechanism and suppression methods of the main error sources of dynamic measurement, such as vibration noise, accelerometer drift, and carrier dynamic effect, are analyzed. Finally, the application prospects of atom gravimeter dynamic measurement technology in gravity field mapping, navigation, and underwater target detection are discussed.

Evaluation of the effectiveness of hospital infection prevention and control based on the SMART principle.

Hospital infection not only increases patient suffering and mortality, but also causes huge economic losses. It is urgent to take effective measures to improve the situation of hospital infection and focus on hand hygiene and disinfection. The SMART principle is to follow the principles of specificity, measurability, attainability, relevance, and timeliness when setting goals. This study aims to use the SMART principle in the prevention and control of hospital infection, to take a series of measures on the hospital infection such as hand hygiene, and to evaluate the implementation effect. This study is a retrospective study. From January to June 2020, the SMART principle was used to carry out intervention for infection prevention and control in the Xiangya International Medical Department, Central South University, and implement the infection prevention and control quality improvement plan. Using indicator data as targeting measurement standard, we established evaluation indicators for hospital infection prevention and control knowledge awareness and hand hygiene compliance rate as the process monitoring, surgical site infection rate and catheter-related urinary tract infection rate as the result monitoring. The evaluation indicators after intervention (July 2020 to June 2021) were compared with those before intervention (January 2019 to December 2019). Fifty-one medical staff working in the Xiangya International Medical Department were included. There were 12 doctors and 39 nurses, and 6 males and 45 females. The age ranged from 21 to 57 (30.2±7.1) years. After the intervention, the awareness of hospital infection prevention and control knowledge and hand hygiene compliance rate of medical staff were significantly higher than those before the intervention (both P<0.05), but there were no significant differences in surgical site infection rate and catheter-related urinary tract infection rate before and after intervention (both P>0.05). After the intervention, the awareness of hospital infection prevention and control knowledge and hand hygiene compliance rate of medical staff in the internal and surgical wards were higher than those before the intervention (all P<0.05). The awareness of hospital infection prevention and control knowledge of medical staff in surgical wards was low but improved significantly. The compliance rate of hand hygiene of medical staff in internal wards was high and improved significantly. After the intervention, the awareness of hospital infection prevention and control knowledge and hand hygiene compliance rate of male and female medical staff were higher than those before the intervention (all P<0.05), both of which were significantly higher in males than in females. After the intervention, the awareness of hospital infection prevention and control knowledge and hand hygiene compliance rate for medical staff aged less than 30 years old and 30 to 40 years old were higher than those before the intervention (all P<0.05). Medical staff aged 30 to 40 years had a low awareness of hospital infection prevention and control knowledge, but both indicators improved most significantly. After the intervention, the awareness of hospital infection prevention and control knowledge of doctors and nurses was increased (both P<0.05). The awareness of doctors improved more significantly, and the hand hygiene compliance rate of nurses improved (P<0.05). After the intervention, the awareness of hospital infection prevention and control knowledge and hand hygiene compliance rate of medical staff with primary and intermediate professional titles were higher than those before the intervention (all P<0.05), and the improvement was more significant for medical staff with intermediate professional titles. Based on the SMART principle management method, the implementation of quality improvement plans combined with various domestic and international evaluation standards for infection prevention and control can effectively improve the awareness of infection control knowledge and hand hygiene compliance rate of medical staff, strengthen the prevention and control of hospital infection, and further ensure the safety of patients.

Bioimpedance spectroscopy measurement method based on multisine excitation and integer-period undersampling

Bioimpedance spectroscopy (BIS) is a detection technology that uses the bioimpedance characteristics of human tissues and their changes to analyze their physiological and pathological status, and is widely used in clinical and scientific research applications. Traditional BIS measurement must satisfy the Nyquist sampling theorem so as to ensure that the measurement signal has no frequency aliasing, but at the same time the sampling frequency and the number of sampling points will be increased, which will increase the computation and hardware costs. This paper proposes a novel BIS measurement method based on multisine excitation and integer-period undersampling (IPUS) technology. Firstly, the multisine-based IPUS theory is deduced, and the BIS measurement principle based on multisine excitation and IPUS technology is introduced. Secondly, a BIS measurement system based on a field-programmable gate array + analog-to-digital converter + digital-to-analog converter architecture is designed, and multisine excitation with 32 pseudo-logarithmically distributed frequency components in the range of 2–997 kHz is generated. Comparative BIS measurement experiments on three RC three-element models are carried out under the Nyquist sampling condition (sampling frequency fs = 2.56 MHz) and under the IPUS condition (fs = 512 kHz), respectively. Experimental results show that the mean amplitude error of BIS measurement under the Nyquist sampling condition is 0.80% (±1.19% SD), while the mean amplitude error under the IPUS condition is 1.02% (±1.13% SD). Moreover, the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR z ) is calculated in 40 repeated BIS measurements, where the mean SNR z is 63.60 dB under the IPUS condition, similar to the value of 62.77 dB under the Nyquist sampling condition. The proposed multisine-based IPUS theory and its implementation method in this paper can complete a BIS measurement with only one fundamental period, and the sampling frequency and sampling point requirements are lower than for Nyquist sampling, laying a theoretical and technical foundation for a BIS measurement system with reduced hardware and computation requirements.

Research on a measurement method for spatio-temporal distribution of fragments based on a high-speed camera network

To reliably measure multiple spatio-temporal distribution parameters of fragments in the blast field, a measurement method for spatio-temporal distribution of fragments based on a high-speed camera network is proposed. The method is based on the principle of binocular stereo vision measurement and consists of four steps: fragment image acquisition, target detection of multi-view images, fitting of motion trajectory, and calculation of the spatio-temporal distribution parameters. The test results demonstrate that the method can simultaneously measure multiple parameters in the intersecting field of view. Compared with the measurement results of the array target, the absolute value of the measurement relative error of velocity was less than 1.5%, and the measurement results of scatter angle and distribution density were consistent. It indicates that the measurement results of the proposed method are reliable, and the method is a feasible and effective measurement method for spatio-temporal distribution parameters of fragments in the explosion filed.

Measurement of the [formula omitted] and [formula omitted] reaction cross-sections and isomeric ratios induced by the 14.8 MeV neutrons

The precise measurement of the (n, 2n) reaction cross-sections of xenon isotopes is of great significance for the diagnosis of the Inertial Confinement Fusion fuel area density ρR. The preparation of xenon samples and how they can be efficiently adsorbed to obtain an optimal reaction cross section are extremely difficult in existing experiments. This work aims to use the 93Nb(n,2n)92mNb reaction cross section as the standard to calculate the cross-sections and isomeric ratio for 134Xe(n,2n)133m,gXe and 136Xe(n,2n)135m,gXe reactions. This work also aims to explore the feasibility of adsorbent selection, the method of adsorption sample and the feasibility of the method used in the laboratory. In this paper, the Geant4 program was used to simulate and calculate the adsorption factors of activated carbon and polymer for standard 152Eu multi-line sources, so as to determine the most suitable adsorption material. Next, the GammaVision analysis software was used to observe whether the characteristic γ-rays released by other isotope reaction products of xenon in the sample and packaging material had an effect on the characteristic γ-rays of the target product. Then, the basic principle of activation method and the relative measurement principle are used to calculate the cross-sections and isomeric ratio for 134Xe(n,2n)133Xe and 136Xe(n,2n)135Xe reactions. Finally, the experimental results are compared and analyzed with the existing data in EXFOR database to verify whether the experimental method is correct.

Electrochemical sensing of target cells based on a peptide/single‐strand DNA probe

AbstractTo electrochemically measure human myeloid leukemia cells (K562 cells), we constructed a probe consisting of peptide/single‐strand (ss) DNA. Ac‐H6Y4C with an acetylated N‐terminal of peptide was used to enhance the probe to allow electrode responses that could detect target cells. A ss‐DNA was selected as the target cell recognition moiety. The probe exhibits properties that combine the functionalities of both DNA and peptides. The measurement principle is based on changes in the peak currents of the peptide moieties that are caused by interactions between the ss‐DNA and target cells. The peak currents were proportional to the concentration of K 562 cells that ranged from 10 to 2,000 cells/mL with a LOD of 3 cells/mL.

Ultrahigh bandwidth measuring approach of an I-FOG based on axial magnetic sensitivity.

The bandwidth is one of the key indicators of the interferometric fiber optic gyroscope (I-FOG) in the application with high frequency jitter. The traditional bandwidth measurement equipment, such as the angular vibration table, can only provide angular vibrations of hundreds of hertz and cannot meet the measurement needs of a high bandwidth gyro. We propose an approach, with which a signal of several thousand hertz can be provided and can measure a high bandwidth of I-FOGs. The bandwidth measurement approach is based on the axial magnetic sensitivity. We present the measurement principle, derive the axial magnetic sensitivity expression of the fiber coil in I-FOGs, and demonstrate the bandwidth measuring system. With this system, the bandwidth of an I-FOG is measured and the experimental result shows that the bandwidth is ∼10 kHz. It is proved that this new, to the best of our knowledge, approach is capable of testing the bandwidth of the I-FOG at ultrahigh frequencies.

An experimental study on capacitive and ultrasonic measurement principles and uncertainty assessment in laboratory wave measurements

Many studies in ocean engineering and related fields need physical wave modelling in controlled environments. Monitoring the free surface elevation over time is essential to forming accurate waves. Various wave height measurement instruments can be used to determine the free surface elevation. However, measurements based on only one principle might lead to uncertain results. This study aims to compare measurements taken with capacitance-type and ultrasonic-type wave height gauges for the same wave models and analyze uncertainty in wave modelling. Nine different wave cases were tested using three-wave heights and three-wave frequencies. In a two-dimensional wave flume, the amplitude and frequency of the waves were controlled with a mechanical wave generator. The Guide on the Expression of Uncertainty in Measurement (GUM) presented by the Joint Committee for Guides in Metrology (JCGM) was used following ITTC procedures and guidelines. The processes for acquiring data, selecting data intervals, estimating amplitude and frequency, and analyzing uncertainty are presented and discussed. The measurements by the ultrasonic-type wave height gauge required a different input stroke for the wave generator and had more uncertainties associated with the amplitude of the measured waves. The findings highlight that identifying differences in measurement principles is significant for wave modelling.

The Principles of Hearable Photoplethysmography Analysis and Applications in Physiological Monitoring-A Review.

Not long ago, hearables paved the way for biosensing, fitness, and healthcare monitoring. Smart earbuds today are not only producing sound but also monitoring vital signs. Reliable determination of cardiovascular and pulmonary system information can explore the use of hearables for physiological monitoring. Recent research shows that photoplethysmography (PPG) signals not only contain details on oxygen saturation level (SPO2) but also carry more physiological information including pulse rate, respiration rate, blood pressure, and arterial-related information. The analysis of the PPG signal from the ear has proven to be reliable and accurate in the research setting. (1) Background: The present integrative review explores the existing literature on an in-ear PPG signal and its application. This review aims to identify the current technology and usage of in-ear PPG and existing evidence on in-ear PPG in physiological monitoring. This review also analyzes in-ear (PPG) measurement configuration and principle, waveform characteristics, processing technology, and feature extraction characteristics. (2) Methods: We performed a comprehensive search to discover relevant in-ear PPG articles published until December 2022. The following electronic databases: Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE), ScienceDirect, Scopus, Web of Science, and PubMed were utilized to conduct the studies addressing the evidence of in-ear PPG in physiological monitoring. (3) Results: Fourteen studies were identified but nine studies were finalized. Eight studies were on different principles and configurations of hearable PPG, and eight studies were on processing technology and feature extraction and its evidence in in-ear physiological monitoring. We also highlighted the limitations and challenges of using in-ear PPG in physiological monitoring. (4) Conclusions: The available evidence has revealed the future of in-ear PPG in physiological monitoring. We have also analyzed the potential limitation and challenges that in-ear PPG will face in processing the signal.

Unmeasurable Hemoglobin A1c due to Extreme Hyperglycemia in High-performance Liquid Chromatography Method: A Case Report

BACKGROUND: Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), which is one of the important parameters considered when judging the degree of glucose concentrations during the preceding 8–12 weeks, is used as the standard assessment of glycemic control in patients with diabetes. However, some measurement principles may cause errors in HbA1c measurement. CASE REPORT: A 49-year-old male patient with hyperglycemic hyperosmotic syndrome had an extreme high blood glucose level of 2,161 mg/dL and an HbA1c level that was not measurable due to a large amount of labile HbA1c. Many institutions measure HbA1c by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). We measure HbA1c using ARKRAY HA-8190V (ion-exchange HPLC) and report National Glycohemoglobin Standardization Program (NGSP) (%). HbA1c was not measurable in this case, so we requested glycated albumin measurement as a substitute which revealed an extreme abnormal value of 64.5%. HPLC analysis revealed a large #C peak, which appeared to be labile HbA1c, before the HbA1c peak. The patient was treated with insulin therapy, and the HbA1c was measurable and was 14.1% a day after the glucose level was controlled. CONCLUSION: The report emphasiz of HbA1c measurements in situations of extreme hyperglycemia.

A new approach to measure fundamental microstructural influences on the magnetic properties of electrical steel using a miniaturized single sheet tester

Magnetic properties of electrical steel are usually measured on Single Sheet Testers, Epstein frames or ring cores. Due to the geometric dimensions and measurement principles of these standardized setups, the fundamental microstructural influences on the magnetic behavior, e.g., deformation structures, crystal orientation or grain boundaries, are difficult to separate and quantify. In this paper, a miniaturized Single Sheet Tester is presented that allows the characterization of industrial steel sheets as well as from in size limited single, bi- and oligocrystals starting from samples with dimensions of 10 × 22 mm. Thereby, the measurement of global magnetic properties is coupled with microstructural analysis methods to allow the investigation of micro scale magnetic effects. An effect of grain orientation, grain boundaries and deformation structures has already been identified with the presented experimental setup. In addition, a correction function is introduced to allow quantitative comparisons between differently sized Single Sheet Testers. This approach is not limited to the presented Single Sheet Tester geometry, but can also be used to compare the results of Single Sheet Testers of various sizes. The results of the miniaturized Single Sheet Tester were validated on five industrial electrical steel grades. Furthermore, first results of differently oriented single crystals as well as measurements on grain-oriented electrical steel are shown to prove the additional value of the miniaturized Single Sheet Tester geometry.