Digital Commons Network^™

A Comprehensive Overview Of Chronic Wound Infections And Current Treatment Methods, Sarah Fakher, David J. Westenberg

Biological Sciences Faculty Research & Creative Works

Chronic wound infections pose significant healthcare challenges due to persistent biofilms, antibiotic resistance, and impaired healing pathways. These wounds are characterized by prolonged inflammation, microbial colonization, and disrupted tissue regeneration, leading to substantial morbidity and healthcare costs. This article reviews current knowledge on chronic wound types, their pathophysiology, and the mechanisms underlying biofilm formation to examine the latest advancements in antimicrobial-based strategies aimed at addressing these challenges. It highlights how diverse materials and technologies have been engineered to improve infection management, enhance tissue regeneration, and overcome the limitations of traditional treatments as well as advances that leverage innovations such as …

Strategies For Increasing Methane Removal In Methanotroph Stirred-Tank Reactors For The Production Of Ectoine, Jaden Storrer, Tansley M. Mazurkiewicz, Bodee Hancock, Ronald C. Sims

Biological Engineering Student Research

Methane is a potent greenhouse gas that requires its emissions to be mitigated. A significant source for methane emissions is in the form of the biogas that is produced from anaerobic digestion in wastewater reclamation and landfill facilities. Biogas has a high valorization potential in the form of its bioconversion into ectoines, an active ingredient in skin care products, by halotolerant alkaliphilic methanotrophs. Cultures of Methylotuvimicrobium alcaliphilum 20Z were grown in bench scale stirred-tank reactors to determine factors to improve methane uptake and removal. Tangential flow filtration was also implemented for a bio-milking method to recover ectoine from culture media. …

Crisis Observatory: Extracting Credible Signals During A Crisis In The Age Of Llms, Kuan-Chieh Lo, Pranav Maneriker, Sriram Sai Ganesh, Dominik Winecki, Kelly Garrett, Ayaz Hyder, Arnab Nandi, Valerie Shalin, Shannon A. Bowen Ph.D., Amit Sheth, Srinivasan Parthasarathy

Publications

Systems for crisis response have required several different models for the analysis of unstructured text, such as identifying needs, locations, topics, routing, and matching of needs with available responders. Large Language Models (LLMs) have replaced task-specific models across various language processing tasks. However, LLMs are known to be limited by their training data, collected before the crisis. In this demo, we explore the use of LLMs for crisis response scenarios with rapidly evolving information environments. We show how the augmentation of these models with external reliable sources of crisis-specific information can help build adaptive systems for response. The demonstration video …

Intelligent Decision-Making Systems In Smart Greenhouses, Muso Berdiyor Ugli Allanov

Chemical Technology, Control and Management

Smart greenhouses offer a solution to sustainable food production under climate uncertainty, yet their management often depends on fixed rules or human intuition. This study proposes an intelligent decision-making framework that integrates optimization, simulation, and a neural set into a self-learning system. By generating “conditionally real data” through simulation and evolutionary algorithms, the system can predict microclimatic changes and optimize control of water, energy, and nutrients. Continuous digital feedback enables adaptive, data-efficient operation even with limited real data. Experimental results demonstrate reduced resource use and improved yield stability, advancing the development of autonomous and resilient greenhouse ecosystems.

Multi-Criteria Decision-Making And Uncertainty Analyses Of Off-Grid Hybrid Renewable Energy Systems For An Island Community, Dibyendu Roy, Hadi Taghavifar, Kumar Vijayalakshmi Shivaprasad, Yaodong Wang, Barun K. Das, Anthony Paul Roskilly

Research outputs 2022 to 2026

This study examines advanced hybrid renewable energy system configurations designed for a remote island community. The configurations integrate multiple technologies, including wind turbines, photovoltaic panels, fuel cells, diesel generators, batteries, converters, electrolyzers, and hydrogen storage tanks, enabling a synergetic approach to energy generation, storage, and management. Excess electricity produced from the systems is utilized for battery charging and green hydrogen production, enhancing system flexibility and resilience. A detailed techno-economic and environmental assessment of the configurations was performed. Furthermore, the Technique for Order of Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution based multicriteria decision-making framework was employed to identify the optimal configuration. …

باستخدام مجموعة بيانات متعددة من الطائرات بدون طيار Yolo البحث والإنقاذ البحري القائم على في ظروف الطقس الصعبة, Aysha Ali Alshebli

Theses

Object detection models, powered by deep learning and computer vision, are revolutionizing marine search and rescue (SAR). By analyzing aerial imagery and live drone footage, these systems automatically identify critical targets like survivors, life rafts, and debris across vast and treacherous ocean areas. This capability enhances operational efficiency by reducing human workload and accelerating response times, even in challenging conditions such as poor light, high seas, or cluttered backgrounds. The result is continuous monitoring, faster decision-making, and a significantly improved probability of successful rescue.

Departing from prior methodologies, YOLO introduced a paradigm shift through its single-shot architecture, which concurrently predicts …

Enhanced Air Hockey Robot Performance Through Adaptive Control Algorithim Using Ai-Based Hierarechal Decicion Archeticture, Ayham Majed Salim

Theses

This thesis presents the development of an intelligent air hockey robot that combines precise mechanical design, computer vision, and adaptive control within an AI-based hierarchical decision architecture. The system integrates synchronized stepper motors, high-speed image processing, and a real-time decision framework to achieve competitive gameplay performance. The robot detects the puck using adaptive HSV color segmentation, supported by dynamic calibration that maintains accuracy under different lighting conditions. A two-stage trajectory prediction model, based on exponential decay velocity estimation, enables anticipation of puck motion and improves response time during fast gameplay.

At the decision level, a fuzzy-logic supervisor governs the robot’s …

Microstrip Antenna Design Based On Ai And Machine Learning, Waleed Mohamed Sha Moulavi

Theses

Microstrip patch antennas (MPAs) rely on precise impedance matching for efficient power transfer between the antenna and feed line. This is often achieved using a number of different techniques, one of which is the quarter-wavelength transformer (QWT). While commercial electromagnetic (EM) solvers offer robust optimization capabilities, they often operate as "black boxes" without providing physical insights into parameter interdependencies. Furthermore, this thesis focuses on the specific scenario where the antenna input impedance is purely real. To address the lack of explicit design relationships for these specific conditions, this thesis develops and comparatively evaluates artificial intelligence (AI) models for QWT width …

An Analysis Of Renewable Energy Capture Utilization For Mpulungu Harbour, Dorica Nayame

World Maritime University Dissertations

No abstract provided.

Enhancing Seafarer Competence In Nigeria : Challenges And Opportunities, Alexander Chike Melifonwu

World Maritime University Dissertations

No abstract provided.

The Ratification And Implementation Of The International Maritime Organisation (Imo) Instruments : A Social And Policy Persepctive On Maritime Governance In Fiji, Miriama Latianara

World Maritime University Dissertations

No abstract provided.

The Roles And Responsibilities Of Master And Remote Operator In Maritime Autonomous Surface Ship (Mass) Under The Colregs, Yuma Sakamoto

World Maritime University Dissertations

No abstract provided.

The Problem Of Noise Pollution In Chinese Waters : Can The Current National Legal Framework Tackle The Problem?, Zhou Wang

World Maritime University Dissertations

No abstract provided.

Preparedness And Response To Oil And Biofuel Spills : A Case Study Of The Western Indian Ocean, Soifoine Abdillah

World Maritime University Dissertations

No abstract provided.

Oil Spill Pollution In The Caspian Sea In Case Of Azerbaijan : Evaluating Spill Patterns And Governance Gaps In Azerbaijan’S Marine Oil Pollution Response, Ulviyya Hasanova

World Maritime University Dissertations

No abstract provided.

Maritime Risk Management Of Methanol Bunkering : Study On Key Points Of Ship Supervision And Inspection, Baozhong Li

World Maritime University Dissertations

No abstract provided.

Port State Control In The Philippines : Addressing Challenges And Recommending Pathways For Enhancing Qualification And Operational Effectiveness, Kethlynn Mae Nadal

World Maritime University Dissertations

No abstract provided.

Assessing Spatial And Temporal Patterns Of Industrial Bottom Trawlers Using Vessel Monitoring System Data : A Case Study Of Ghana, Emmanuel Agbeko

World Maritime University Dissertations

No abstract provided.

Legal Analysis On The Use Of Maritime Drones In Law Enforcement Operations, Da Ye Kim

World Maritime University Dissertations

No abstract provided.

A Study Of The Maritime Safety Framework For Seaplane Operations, Sourabh Yadav

World Maritime University Dissertations

No abstract provided.

Strengthening Thailand’S Ship-Sourced Oil Spill Management : A Comparative Analysis Of Legal And Response Frameworks In Thailand, The United States, And Singapore, Supranee Wattanapongsakul

World Maritime University Dissertations

No abstract provided.

Analysis Of Modern Research In The Field Of Automation And Digitalization Of The Dairy Industry, N.A Kabulov, U.K. Sabirov, A.K. Oqilov

Chemical Technology, Control and Management

This article presents a systematic analysis of modern research aimed at the advancement of automation and digitalization technologies in the dairy industry, with particular emphasis on the processes of product sorting and quality control. The main directions of digital solution implementation are examined, including the use of robotic sorting lines, computer vision systems, spectral analysis sensors, and artificial intelligence tools for the automatic verification of product compliance with established standards. A comparative analysis of existing approaches to the implementation of intelligent control systems within the technological cycle — from raw material intake to packaging and finished product logistics — is …

Reinforcement Learning In A Virtual World: A Study Of Ppo And Sac Within Unity Ml Agents, Rufat Mammadzada

Chemical Technology, Control and Management

This study explores the use of Unity3D as a versatile platform for developing, training, and evaluating intelligent agents through reinforcement learning. Leveraging the Unity ML-Agents Toolkit, a dynamic 3D environment was created to examine agent learning behavior using two advanced algorithms: Proximal Policy Optimization (PPO) and Soft Actor-Critic (SAC). The simulation environment consisted of navigable terrain bounded by red borders, with collectible blue balls serving as rewards and a purple cube representing the agent. A carefully designed reward system was implemented to encourage goal-directed behavior and penalize inefficiency, while time constraints introduced an additional challenge requiring both precision and speed. …

Patient-Informed Fluid-Structure Interaction Simulations Of Bicuspid Aortic Valve In Young Adults Reveal Regionalized Differences In Mechanical Stress, Hail B. Kazik, Harkamaljot S. Kandail, Joy Lincoln, John F. Ladisa

Biomedical Engineering Faculty Research and Publications

Bicuspid aortic valve (BAV) is a common congenital cardiovascular defect characterized by two, rather than three, cusps. Many BAV patients prematurely develop calcification and aortic stenosis by age 35, which is more severe with fusion of the right and noncoronary (RC/NC) cusps. The mechanisms underlying calcification observed within the coaptation, attachment, and fusion regions of BAV patients are unknown. While abnormal mechanical stimuli induced by the bicuspid anatomy likely plays a role, little is known about regionalized mechanical stimuli in these susceptible cusp regions of young patients prior to calcification. Strongly coupled fluid-structure interaction simulations were conducted using physiologic boundary …

Characterizing Piezoelectric-Blended Polydimethylsiloxane For Use As A Mechanoelectrical Responsive Cell Culture Substrate, Alexis P. Applequist, Lance D. Cordes, Lais A. Ferreira, Kartik Balachandran

Biomedical Engineering Faculty Publications and Presentations

In this study, we developed a piezoelectric-polydimethylsiloxane (pz-PDMS) composite by blending poly(vinylidene fluoride-co-trifluoroethylene) (P(VDF-TrFE)) with PDMS to create a biocompatible, mechanoelectrical responsive material. The pz-PDMS was synthesized with varying piezoelectric concentrations (0%, 1%, 3%, and 5%) and characterized for visual properties, mechanical properties, mechanoelectrical sensitivity, and biocompatibility. Compression testing showed no significant change in mechanical strength with the addition of piezoelectric particles, while mechanolectrical sensitivity testing revealed a non-linear increase in voltage response, with 5% pz-PDMS producing the highest sensitivity. Fatigue testing demonstrated no change in sensitivity after 7 days of cyclic displacement. Additionally, microcantilever experiments demonstrated the high fidelity …

A Light-Dependent Resistor Based Embedded Image Acquisition System For Use In Low-Resolution Application-Specific Data Processing, Connor Best

Journal of Undergraduate Research at Minnesota State University, Mankato

This paper proposes an efficient hardware-based approach to image acquisition & processing to replace complex camera systems in simple industrial & commercial applications.

Environment Mapping And Gps-Based Trailer Parking Using Low-Cost Peripheral Sensors And Post-Processing Algorithms, Connor Best

Journal of Undergraduate Research at Minnesota State University, Mankato

This paper explores the merit of software data optimization through two practical examples: environment mapping & GPS navigation.

Sistemas De Información Geográfica En La Era De La Digitalización, Jairo Eduardo Márquez Díaz, Luis Gonzalo Benavides Ramírez, Arles Prieto Moreno, Martha Andrea Manrique Castro

Ingeniería

En la era digital, la información geográfica es esencial para la toma de decisiones en áreas como la planificación urbana, la gestión de recursos naturales y la seguridad. Los Sistemas de Información Geográfica (SIG) se han establecido como herramientas indispensables para gestionar, analizar y visualizar datos georreferenciados que permite la creación de mapas digitales y la toma de decisiones basada en evidencia. Este libro aborda los fundamentos, las tecnologías y las aplicaciones de los SIG, explorando su evolución y su potencial en un entorno digital en constante transformación. A lo largo de sus cinco capítulos, el libro aborda temas esenciales …

Political Turbulence And Aviation Safety: A Cross-National Analysis Of Political Stability's Effects On Aviation Accidents, Léa Faure, Lilliam Maria Cáceres Malachowski

Journal of Aviation/Aerospace Education & Research

To what extent does political stability affect aviation safety? This research aims to link domestic political conditions and public safety through the consideration of aviation accident frequency. Political instability can indeed have profound effects on reducing overall public safety in a variety of domains through its influence on public policies. Reduced regulations and governance efforts can appear in contentious contexts for less-prioritized fields. This could influence the reemergence of technical aviation risk factors like crew training and performance, maintenance issues, infrastructure problems, human errors, etc. This would highlight a correlation between such political instability and weaker aviation safety regulations, investments …

Teaching Machine Learning To Undergraduate Electrical Engineering Students, Gerald L. Fudge, Anika Rimu, William Zorn, July Ringle, Cody Barnet

Faculty Publications

Proficiency in machine learning (ML) and the associated computational math foundations have become critical skills for engineers. Required areas of proficiency include the ability to use available ML tools and the ability to develop new tools to solve engineering problems. Engineers also need to be proficient in using generative artificial intelligence (AI) tools in a variety of contexts, including as an aid to learning, research, writing, and code generation. Using these tools properly requires a solid understanding of the associated computational math foundation. Without this foundation, engineers will struggle with developing new tools and can easily misuse available ML/AI tools, …