Signal Integrity Research Articles

Research on Precise Servo Control of Hand Motion Real-time Detection Based on Surface Electromyography Signals Integration and Analysis of Muscle Response to Workout Exercises

This study explores the integration of surface electromyography (sEMG) signals for precise servo control in real-time hand movement detection. It also further utilizes the feedback system designed to measure effects of workout exercises on forearm sEMG signals and delves into how different time and types of workouts affect forearm muscle response. Medical electrodes captured sEMG signals from forearm muscles and converted them into digital signals using an Arduino UNO R3 microcontroller board and an Olimex EMG shield to monitor hand pose variations. The digital signals were then processed to calculate the root mean square (RMS) voltage, which was then used to control the position of a servo motor. The implementation of a proportional-derivative (PD) controller further enhanced the accuracy and stability of the servo movements. Then the feedback system was used to measure how sEMG signals vary due to hand opening and closing before and after a range of workout exercises with varying time and workout types, and the results were compared to reach the conclusion that both workout time and type influences how forearm muscles respond to hand closing and opening. Future work may explore the effect of more time and types of workouts on muscle response, expand the range of test subjects, and improve the accuracy and stability of the test system

Research on Ion Channels in Dorsal Root Ganglion Neurons

Dorsal Root Ganglion (DRG) neurons serve as crucial nodes for pain signal transmission, and their excitability regulation plays a key role in various physiological and pathological processes. Ion channels, as central components in modulating DRG neuron function, are involved in biological processes such as pain conduction, neural signal integration, and plasticity. This paper systematically analyzes the structural characteristics, functional mechanisms, and roles of different types of ion channels in DRG neurons, including sodium channels, potassium channels, calcium channels, and other related channels, particularly in pathological conditions. In light of current research trends, the paper also explores the potential of ion channels as drug targets and in technological applications, while suggesting future research directions. The aim is to provide theoretical support for the diagnosis and treatment of diseases related to DRG neurons.

Postnatal development of vasoactive intestinal polypeptide-expressing GABAergic interneurons in mouse somatosensory cortex.

Despite dysfunctional vasoactive intestinal polypeptide-positive interneurons (VIP-INs) being linked to the emergence of neurodevelopmental disorders, the temporal profile of VIP-IN functional maturation and cortical network integration remains unclear. Postnatal VIP-IN development was traced with patch clamp experiments in the somatosensory cortex of Vip-IRES-cre x tdTomato mice. Age groups were chosen during barrel field formation, before and after activation of main sensory inputs, and in adult animals (postnatal days (P) P3-4, P8-10, P14-16, and P30-36). Changes in passive and active membrane properties show a maturation towards accelerated signal integrations. Excitatory and inhibitory postsynaptic currents (EPSCs and IPSCs) showed progressive VIP-IN integration into cortical networks, likely via synaptogenesis: mEPSC frequency increased before P8-10, while mIPSC frequency increased at P14-16. Only mIPSC kinetics became accelerated, and the E/I ratio of synaptic inputs, defined as a ratio of mEPSC to mIPSC charge transfer, remained constant throughout the investigated developmental stages. Evoked (e)EPSCs and (e)IPSCs showed increased amplitudes, while only eIPSCs demonstrated faster kinetics. eEPSCs and eIPSCs revealed a paired-pulse facilitation by P14-16, indicating probably a decrease in the presynaptic release probability (pr) and a paired-pulse depression in adulthood. eIPSCs also showed the latter, suggesting a decrease in pr for both signal transmission pathways at this time point. VIP-INs mature towards faster signal integration and pursue different strategies to avoid overexcitation. Excitatory and inhibitory synaptic transmission become stronger and shorter via different pre- and postsynaptic alterations, likely promoting the execution of active whisking.

Feasibility and acceptability of Body Signal Integration training for Functional Neurological Disorder (FND): A case series

AbstractObjectivesFunctional neurological disorder (FND) is a common and often disabling condition, but existing treatments are limited and often do not target relevant underlying mechanisms. This study piloted a manualised intervention package—Body Signal Integration (BSI) training—designed to improve interoception and mind–body integration in individuals with FND. The primary aim was to determine feasibility and acceptability of delivering BSI. A secondary aim was to gather preliminary evidence regarding whether BSI is associated with reductions in FND symptoms and distress.MethodsA case series of BSI was conducted with eight individuals with FND. Baseline, weekly and one‐month follow‐up self‐report measures were completed. Feasibility was assessed by attendance and protocol adherence. Acceptability was evaluated using a self‐report measure. Weekly clinical outcome measures were completed.ResultsSeven of eight participants completed therapy with a total attendance rate of 98%. There were no unanticipated side effects or adverse events during therapy. High ratings on all items on the satisfaction questionnaire indicated treatment acceptability. Improvements in somatic symptoms, interoceptive awareness and quality of life were observed in some, but not all, participants. Five participants reported clinically important improvements in interoceptive awareness.DiscussionThis preliminary study suggests that BSI is feasible and acceptable for use in FND. Clinical outcomes indicate that BSI could improve interoceptive sensibility and reduce experiences of somatic symptoms for some people with FND, but variation in outcomes suggests that the treatment may be suitable for some people more than others. Qualitative process evaluation of the treatment is recommended.

Compact diplexer based on SIR feeders, T-shaped resonators, and UIR components for mobile wireless systems

Utilizing T-shaped resonators, Uniform Impedance Resonator (UIR) and Step Impedance Resonator (SIR) feeders, this research presents a new compact microstrip diplexer developed for wireless networks. The diplexer's frequency responses with narrowband features reduce interference and enhance signal integrity, which are critical for current communication systems, and it targets channel frequencies of 3.2 and 4.7 GHz. It exhibits insertion losses of 0.3 and 0.7 dB, return losses of 30 and 19 dB, and isolation between channels surpassing 30 dB, guaranteeing minimum cross-talk and robust signal transmission. Modern mobile environments rely on quick signal processing and data transmission speeds, which are improved by incorporating negative group delay (NGD). The diplexer has been low-profile and suitable for devices with limited space due to its compact design and construction on an FR4 substrate. It is a viable option for mobile communication applications, as confirmed by thorough simulations and experimental validations.

Analysis of PAPR reduction algorithms for optical OFDM 5G radio waveform system for visible light communication

Abstract The integration of Optical Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing (OFDM) with the 5G radio waveforms has lately been attracting special attention toward its possible Visible Light Communication (VLC) systems. On the other hand, however, a key challenge in the Optical OFDM is the presence of very high PAPR, degrading the overall system performance by introducing nonlinear distortions in the optical transmitter. In the present paper, different kinds of PAPR reduction algorithms specifically developed for Optical OFDM in VLC systems are developed and investigated. Analyze techniques like clipping, selective mapping (SLM), partial transmit sequence (PTS), and companding for their PAPR reduction efficiency along with the preservation of spectral efficiency and signal integrity. Based on the above aspects, various performance metrics, such as BER, computational complexity, and SNR, have been considered in order to understand each technique’s trade-off. It can be clearly seen that the hybrid and adaptive approaches achieve greater PAPR reduction without much loss of performance and are thus appropriate for future generation optical communication systems. This analysis underlines the use of optimized PAPR reduction algorithms to achieve robust and efficient systems for 5G VLC applications.

Advances in Whole Genome Sequencing: Methods, Tools, and Applications in Population Genomics.

With the rapid advancement of high-throughput sequencing technologies, whole genome sequencing (WGS) has emerged as a crucial tool for studying genetic variation and population structure. Utilizing population genomics tools to analyze resequencing data allows for the effective integration of selection signals with population history, precise estimation of effective population size, historical population trends, and structural insights, along with the identification of specific genetic loci and variations. This paper reviews current whole genome sequencing technologies, detailing primary research methods, relevant software, and their advantages and limitations within population genomics. The goal is to examine the application and progress of resequencing technologies in this field and to consider future developments, including deep learning models and machine learning algorithms, which promise to enhance analytical methodologies and drive further advancements in population genomics.

TID damage assessment on LVDS links for the ATLAS muon barrel spectrometer readout system

This work reports on Total Ionizing Dose (TID) assessment on off-the-shelf LVDS links that will be used for the new trigger and readout system of the ATLAS muon barrel spectrometer within the HL-LHC program. We developed an experimental setup that allows to investigate TID effects on the currents drawn by the devices under test and on their signal integrity, including variations in amplitude, rise/fall time, and bit error rate. No significant variations of these quantities has been observed after integrating the ATLAS target dose of 84.6 Gy. In order to investigate high-dose effects, the irradiation has been extended up to 15.4 kGy. No post-annealing effects were observed. These results complement existing literature, proving the robustness of off-the-shelf LVDS links for the ATLAS environment.

Plasma displacement calculation for TT-1 device based on multiple magnetic probes fitting methods

The HT-6M device has been upgraded and rebranded as the Thailand Tokamak 1 (TT-1), which has been reinstalled and is now operational in Thailand. In tokamak discharge experiments, precise monitoring of plasma position and the implementation of effective feedback control are essential for ensuring the stability of the high-temperature plasma. Accurate calculation of plasma displacement is critical to the success of the experiment. This paper presents a method for calculating plasma displacement through a multi-probe fitting technique, utilizing data from twelve magnetic field probes. Initially, magnetic field signals generated by the plasma are collected via multiple magnetic field probes installed poloidally outside the vacuum chamber, coupled with corresponding signal conditioning and integration circuits, with each probe undergoing calibration. Subsequently, during tokamak discharges, interference signals from the toroidal field coils, ohmic heating coils, and vertical field coils are generated by the magnetic system and corrected through a detailed calibration process. Lastly, the distances between the probes and the plasma are computed using data from the magnetic field probes, which are arranged in a circular configuration. The least squares method is employed to formulate a residual equation for fitting the actual plasma displacement. The effectiveness of this approach was validated through experimental data from the TT-1 device, demonstrating that the calculated plasma displacement exhibits a consistent trend with the CCD video recordings. This multi-probe displacement calculation method enables precise control of plasma displacement, thereby providing theoretical support for tokamak experiments and establishing a foundation for future experimental operations and data analysis.

Achieving neuronal dynamics with spike encoding and spatial-temporal summation in vanadium-based threshold switching memristor for asynchronous signal integration.

Artificial neuronal devices that emulate the dynamics of biological neurons are pivotal for advancing brain emulation and developing bio-inspired electronic systems. This paper presents the design and demonstration of an artificial neuron circuit based on a Pt/V/AlOx/Pt threshold switching memristor (TSM) integrated with an external resistor. By applying voltage pulses, we successfully exhibit the leaky integrate-and-fire (LIF) behavior, as well as both spatial and spatiotemporal summation capabilities, achieving the asynchronous signal integration. Notably, the Pt/V/AlOx/Pt TSM demonstrates ultrafast switching speeds (on/off times ∼165 ns/310 ns) and remarkable stability (endurance >102 cycles with cycle-to-cycle variations <2.5%). These attributes render the circuit highly suitable as a spike generator in neuromorphic computing applications. The Pt/V/AlOx/Pt TSM-based spike encoder can output current spikes at frequencies ranging from approximately 200 kHz to 800 kHz. The modulation of output spike frequency is achievable by adjusting the external resistor and capacitor within the spike encoder circuit, providing considerable operational flexibility. Additionally, the Pt/V/AlOx/Pt TSM boasts a lower threshold voltage (Vth ∼ 0.84 V) compared to previously reported VOx-based TSMs, leading to significantly reduced energy consumption for spike generation (∼2.75 nJ per spike).

Influences of sampling time deviations in dynamic measurements with digital sensors: Mitigating signal integrity degradation

Influences of sampling time deviations in dynamic measurements with digital sensors: Mitigating signal integrity degradation

An Investigation on Phase Behavior of ABA-type Block Copolymers Comprising of 2-Hydroxypropyl Acrylate and Poly (Ethylene Glycol)

ABA-type block copolymers consisting of 2-hydroxypropyl acrylate (HPA) and ethylene glycol (EG) segments were prepared by the RAFT polymerization method using two different lengths of macro-RAFT agents based on commercial poly(ethylene glycol)s with average molar masses of 400 and 1450 gmol-1 (PEG400 and PEG1450). By extending the difunctional ends of PEG400 and PEG1450 vertebrate macro-RAFT agents with HPA units, it was aimed to synthesize three ABA type block copolymers of different lengths from each agent. Structural characterization of the copolymers was performed using FTIR and 1H-NMR spectroscopy. In addition to confirming the chemical structures, signal integrations in the 1H-NMR spectrum provided information about the relative proportions of individual repeating units in each copolymer. Six block copolymers were examined for critical dissolution temperatures based on the relative lengths of the blocks and their PEG content. It was determined that all block copolymer systems examined exhibited lower critical solution temperature (LCST) in the range of 17.2-23.9 oC, and as the ratio of EG units in the copolymers increased, the CST of the copolymers increased.

Free-space optical spiking neural network.

Neuromorphic engineering has emerged as a promising avenue for developing brain-inspired computational systems. However, conventional electronic AI-based processors often encounter challenges related to processing speed and thermal dissipation. As an alternative, optical implementations of such processors have been proposed, capitalizing on the intrinsic information-processing capabilities of light. Among the various Optical Neural Networks (ONNs) explored within the realm of optical neuromorphic engineering, Spiking Neural Networks (SNNs) have exhibited notable success in emulating the computational principles of the human brain. The event-based spiking nature of optical SNNs offers capabilities in low-power operation, speed, temporal processing, analog computing, and hardware efficiency that are difficult or impossible to match with other ONN types. In this work, we introduce the pioneering Free-space Optical Deep Spiking Convolutional Neural Network (OSCNN), a novel approach inspired by the computational model of the human eye. Our OSCNN leverages free-space optics to enhance power efficiency and processing speed while maintaining high accuracy in pattern detection. Specifically, our model employs Gabor filters in the initial layer for effective feature extraction, and utilizes optical components such as Intensity-to-Delay conversion and a synchronizer, designed using readily available optical components. The OSCNN was rigorously tested on benchmark datasets, including MNIST, ETH80, and Caltech, demonstrating competitive classification accuracy. Our comparative analysis reveals that the OSCNN consumes only 1.6 W of power with a processing speed of 2.44 ms, significantly outperforming conventional electronic CNNs on GPUs, which typically consume 150-300 W with processing speeds of 1-5 ms, and competing favorably with other free-space ONNs. Our contributions include addressing several key challenges in optical neural network implementation. To ensure nanometer-scale precision in component alignment, we propose advanced micro-positioning systems and active feedback control mechanisms. To enhance signal integrity, we employ high-quality optical components, error correction algorithms, adaptive optics, and noise-resistant coding schemes. The integration of optical and electronic components is optimized through the design of high-speed opto-electronic converters, custom integrated circuits, and advanced packaging techniques. Moreover, we utilize highly efficient, compact semiconductor laser diodes and develop novel cooling strategies to minimize power consumption and footprint.

DFE Error Propagation Mitigation Using Feed Forward Equalizer and Forward Error Correction in 25 Gb/s NRZ Transceiver

In order to mitigate DFE error propagation to reduce bit error rate (BER), a 25[Formula: see text]Gb/s Non-Return-To-Zero (NRZ) transceiver including a five-tap decision feedback equalizer (DFE) combined with a dedicated feed forward equalizer (FFE) was first constructed and was found to be helpful in improving signal integrity and reduce errors in high-speed data transmission, which can lead to more reliable and efficient communication. In this transceiver, the effect of multi-tap FFE on error probability with different burst error run lengths was evaluated through a cumulative-probability distribution model. Then, forward error correction (FEC) with different correction capabilities can be also employed to correct burst errors for a better BER performance. Probability-based BER with single/double burst error correcting FEC was derived and a joint optimization of FFE and FEC can be further explored to achieve the target BER. Results show that compared with two-tap FFE, FFE with a post-cursor tap can obtain a BER improvement of 1.5[Formula: see text]dB at the BER of [Formula: see text], and also enlarge the horizontal opening degree of DFE, which is 0.74 unit interval (UI). Double burst error correcting FEC obtaining 2.2[Formula: see text]dB coding gain at the BER of [Formula: see text] outperforms single one. When the FEC error correcting capability is 16, the combination of double burst error correcting FEC and three-tap FFE can reduce BER from [Formula: see text] to approximately [Formula: see text]. FEC with a larger error correction capability is more likely to achieve the target BER and reduce the complexity of the combination equalizer while ensuring a better equalization performance. The proposed NRZ transceiver, as a part of the physical interface, can be applied to high-speed interconnection scenarios, such as Ethernet, PCIe, and Chiplet.

DESIGNING INCLUSIVE CITIES – THE ROLE OF URBAN ARCHITECTURE IN ENHANCING ACCESSIBILITY FOR THE VISUALLY IMPAIRED

Urban architecture's role is vital in creating an inclusive environment for visually impaired people and affording them easy accessibility in navigating through the built environment. This paper debates the essential principles of urban design, which focus on tactile, auditory, and sensory elements to accommodate visually impaired people. It underlines best practices in architectural practice, including the integration of textured paths, audible signals, high contrasts, and wayfinding systems that enhance spatial awareness and mobility. The paper further explores the psychological and social impacts of accessible urban spaces and highlights the importance of inclusive design for independence and social participation. It provides recommendations for taking innovative approaches to user-centred design that will set a path for architects, urban planners, and policy-makers in creating an environment that serves all members of society with equity. This present research exemplified the transformation potential within urban architecture in the pursuit of building truly inclusive cities for visually impaired people's empowerment.

Reactive oxygen species-mediated signal transduction and utilization strategies in microalgae.

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are crucial in stress perception, the integration of environmental signals, and the activation of downstream response networks. This review emphasizes ROS-mediated signaling pathways in microalgae and presents an overview of strategies for leveraging ROS. Eight distinct signaling pathways mediated by ROS in microalgae have been summarized, including the calcium signaling pathway, the target of rapamycin signaling pathway, the mitogen-activated protein kinase signaling pathway, the cyclic adenosine monophosphate/protein kinase A signaling pathway, the ubiquitin/protease pathway, the ROS-regulated transcription factors and enzymes, the endoplasmic reticulum stress, and the retrograde ROS signaling. Moreover, this review outlines three strategies for utilizing ROS: two-stage cultivation, combined stress with phytohormones, and strain engineering. The physicochemical properties of various ROS, together with their redox reactions with downstream targets, have been elucidated to reveal the role of ROS in signal transduction processes while delineating the ROS-mediated signal transduction network within microalgae.

Flexible ionic‐gel synapse devices and their applications in neuromorphic system

AbstractBiological neural systems, composed of neurons and synaptic networks, exhibit exceptional capabilities in signal transmission, processing, and integration. Inspired by the mechanisms of these systems, researchers have been dedicated to developing artificial neural systems based on flexible synaptic devices that effectively mimic the functions of biological synapses, providing hardware support for the advancement of artificial intelligence. In recent years, ionic gels, known for their high ionic conductivity and intuitive synaptic mimicry, have been utilized in the development of ionic‐gel synapses (IGSs). They are considered ideal materials for the next wearable generation of neuromorphic systems. This review introduces IGS devices and summarizes the recent progress in flexible IGS‐based neuromorphic systems. Additionally, key challenges and future development prospects related to flexible IGSs are outlined, and potential suggestions are provided.

Muscle PGC-1α Overexpression Drives Metabolite Secretion Boosting Subcutaneous Adipocyte Browning.

Muscle and adipose tissue (AT) are in mutual interaction through the integration of endocrine and biochemical signals, thus regulating whole-body function and physiology. Besides a traditional view of endocrine relationships that imply the release of cytokines and growth factors, it is becoming increasingly clear that a metabolic network involving metabolites as signal molecules also exists between the two tissues. By elevating the number and functionality of mitochondria, a key role in muscle metabolism is played by the master regulator of mitochondrial biogenesis peroxisome-proliferator-activated receptor-γ coactivator-1α (PGC-1α), that induces a fiber type shift from glycolytic to oxidative myofibers. As a consequence, the upregulation of muscle respiratory rate might affect metabolite production and consumption. However, the underlying mechanisms have not yet been fully elucidated. Here, we used a muscle-specific PGC-1α overexpressing mouse model (MCK-PGC-1α) to analyze the metabolite secretion profile of serum and culture medium recovered from MCK-PGC-1α muscle fibers by NMR. We revealed modified levels of different metabolites that might be ascribed to the metabolic activation of the skeletal muscle fibers. Notably, the dysregulated levels of these metabolites affected adipocyte differentiation, as well as the browning process in vitro and in vivo. Interestingly such effect was exacerbated in the subcutaneous WAT, while only barely present in the visceral WAT. Our data confirm a prominent role of PGC-1α as a trigger of mitochondrial function in skeletal muscle and propose a novel function of this master regulator gene in modulating the metabolite production in turn affecting the activation of WAT and its conversion toward the browning.

Disgust sensitivity and psychopathic behavior: A narrative review.

Humans live under constant threat from pathogenic microorganisms and minimizing such threat has been a major evolutionary selective force in shaping human behavior and health. A particular adaptive mechanism against the harm caused by parasites and their infectiousness is disgust sensitivity, which has evolved to detect and avoid poisonous foods as well as bodily secretions harboring virulent microorganisms. This ubiquitous and reflexive behavior requires the integration of several internal and external sensory signals between the brain, the autonomic nervous system (ANS), and the gastrointestinal tract. Although the emotional expression of disgust is experienced by almost all individuals, the neural mechanisms of sensory signals underlying disgust sensitivity may differ in certain psychiatric conditions. Psychopathy, for instance, is a personality disorder in which disgust sensitivity to contagious bodily secretions is apparently absent or downregulated from its atypical personality temperament. In this review, we provide convergent behavioral, anatomical, and cellular evidence to suggest that a fractured experience of disgust sensitivity might be an additional feature of psychopathic behavior. First, we discuss the neural networks of certain brain regions mediating the emotional states of disgust and then discuss the intersection of the ANS and gastrointestinal tract in the processing of disgust and its relevance to aberrant antisocial behavior. Together, this work highlights the interconnections between the brain and the bilateral body plan as an integrated cell network that is relevant for understanding common principles underlying function and dysfunction of disgust levels in psychiatric domains.

XGBoost-enabled low-complexity approach for signal integrity assessment in coherent communication systems

Abstract Error vector magnitude (EVM) provides critical information for assessing signal integrity and system performance in optical communication systems. In this research, a regression approach using boosting algorithms is developed to retrieve EVM information from complex signal constellation structures applicable to various modulation formats. Amplitude histograms are created and collected at different OSNR levels, launch powers, and transmission distances using an offline preprocessing approach. The impact of various evaluation techniques, including mean absolute error, coefficient of determination, root mean square error (RMSE), and mean absolute percentage error (MAPE) is discussed in detail. The results show that the proposed extreme gradient boosting framework considerably increases estimation precision compared to categorical boosting and light gradient boosting machine, especially under diverse transmission conditions, with MAPE staying below 1.7% and RMSE below 0.5, thereby enhancing overall performance monitoring in optical communication systems. This research provides a comprehensive and accurate representation of the proposed EVM estimation technique, making it a valuable resource for the development of advanced optical performance monitoring systems in the future.&amp;#xD;