Digital Commons Network^™

Cross-Linked Cellulose Ester/Linseed Oil Composites For Controlled Release Fertilizers, Ian Stark

USF Tampa Graduate Theses and Dissertations

Food scarcity is an ever-present concern for a growing population but can be mitigated through innovations in agriculture. Fertilizers are required to produce a sufficient amount of food, and while they contain key nutrients for crop growth, these nutrients can leech into the surrounding environment. Controlled release fertilizers slow the release of nutrients, encasing the prills in a semi permeable coating. Current coatings are non-biodegradable, causing microplastic soil contamination, which is very difficult to remove. Cellulose esters offer a compelling alternative, with an ability to cross-link into thin films that can be applied as coatings. The cellulose esterification was completed …

Blockchain-Driven Pharma Supply Chains Towards Industry 6.0, Vijay Ramasamy R

Theses and Dissertations

The pharmaceutical supply chain is undergoing an unprecedented evolution in the wake of Industry 6.0, driven by the need for heightened transparency, security, and real-time intelligence. However, current systems suffer from legacy Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) constraints, the risk of counterfeit products, temperature sensitivity, and scalability issues due to the surge in Internet of Things (IoT) data.

This research proposes a unified, blockchain-based framework that integrates legacy ERP systems, advanced AI driven forecasting, IoT-enabled traceability, and quantum-enhanced blockchain security to modernize pharmaceutical supply chains.

The study begins by addressing interoperability between ERP and blockchain using middleware and smart contracts, facilitating …

Strategies For Obtaining High-Performance Li-Ion Solid-State Electrolytes For Solid-State Batteries, Yi-Cheng Deng, Zi-Chang You, Geng-Zhong Lin, Guo Tang, Jing-Hua Wu, Zhi-Min Zhou, Xiang-Chun Zhuang, Li-Xuan Yang, Zhen-Jie Zhang, Zhao-Yin Wen, Xia-Yin Yao, Chang-Hong Wang, Qian Zhou, Guang-Lei Cui, Ping He, Hui Li, Xin-Ping Ai

Journal of Electrochemistry

With the widespread adoption of lithium-ion batteries (LIBs), safety concerns associated with flammable organic electrolytes have become increasingly critical. Solid-state lithium batteries (SSLBs), with enhanced safety and higher energy density potential, are regarded as a promising next-generation energy storage technology. However, the practical application of solid-state electrolytes (SSEs) remains hindered by several challenges, including low Li⁺ ion conductivity, poor interfacial compatibility with electrodes, unfavorable mechanical properties and difficulties in scalable manufacturing. This review systematically examines recent progress in SSEs, including inorganic types (oxides, sulfides, halides), organic types (polymers, plastic crystals, poly(ionic liquids) (PILs)), and the emerging class of soft …

High-Voltage Solid-State Lithium Batteries: A Review Of Electrolyte Design, Interface Engineering, And Future Perspectives, Cheng Yang, Zi-Xin Liang, Ming-Yun Zhang, Ming-Zhe Chen, Kai Zhang, Li-Min Zhou

Journal of Electrochemistry

Solid-state lithium batteries have become a research hotspot in the field of large-scale energy storage due to their excellent safety performance. The development of high-voltage positive electrode materials matched with lithium metal anode have advanced the energy density of solid-state lithium batteries close to or even exceeding that of lithium batteries based on a liquid electrolyte, which is expected to be commercialized in the future. However, in high voltage conditions (> 4.3 V), the decomposition of electrolyte components, structural degradation, and interface side reactions significantly reduce battery performance and hinder its further development. This review summarizes the latest research progress …

Development Trends And Priority Research Fields Of Electrochemical Discipline In The 15th Five Year Plan Period, Lin Zhuang, Wen-Bin Cai, Heng-Xing Ji, Qing Li, Gong-Wei Wang, Sen Xin, Qing Zhao, Fang-Yi Cheng, Yu-Guo Guo, Lan-Qun Mao, Yang Tian, Fei Wu, Li-Min Zhang, Yan Xiang, Jin-Song Hu, Rui Cao, Li Xiao, Hua-Bing Tao, Wei Xing, Dong-Ping Zhan, Hong-Gang Liao, Mei-Ling Xiao, Bin Ren, Zhang-Quan Peng, Rui Wen, Xiang Wang, Yue-Feng Song, Hou-Fu Lv, Bao-Yu Xia, Guo-Xiong Wang, Jun Cheng, Zhi-Pan Liu, Min Zhou, Bing Huang, Cun-Pu Li, Yu-Qin Zou, Shuang-Yin Wang, Hai-Bo Lin, Zi-Dong Wei

Journal of Electrochemistry

In fulfillment of the national science-and-technology development agenda, the Department of Chemical Sciences of the National Natural Science Foundation of China (NSFC) convened the Strategic Symposium on the Fifteenth Five-Year (2026–2030) Development Plan for Electrochemistry held in Xiamen on 29 August, 2025—the culminating year of the Fourteenth Five-Year (2021–2025) Development Plan. More than forty leading experts in the field of electrochemistry participated with spanning nine thematic fronts: Interfacial Electrocatalysis, Interfacial Electrochemistry for Energy Storage, Bioelectrochemistry, Electrochemistry of Hydrogen Energy, Electrochemical Micro-/Nano-Manufacturing, Operando Electrochemical Characterization, Electro-Thermal Coupling Catalysis, Theoretical and Computational Electrochemistry, and Electrochemical Synthesis. The forum assembled China’s foremost electrochemical …

Hybrid Multi-Layer Sandwich Beams Using 3d Printing Technology With Energy Absorption Features, Hour Ali Alhefeiti

Thesis/ Dissertation Defenses

This study explores the use of additive manufacturing (AM) technology to create sandwich composite structures, focusing on the manufacturing process, testing, and anticipated impact. The rising cost of manufacturing prototypes using conventional methods has led to the exploration of 3D printing as a viable alternative. The research problem addresses the challenges in manufacturing sandwich composites and the need for automation across the civil, mechanical, aerospace, and aviation industries. The study aims to investigate 3D-printed sandwich composite structures and compare experimental, finite-element analysis, and theoretical results. The proposed methodology includes preparing a CAD model with five different core infill patterns (Cross …

Process-Driven Manufacturability Constraints In Design For Wire Arc Additive Manufacturing, Monsuru Ramoni, Sampson Gholston, Albert E. Patterson

Manufacturing & Industrial Engineering Faculty Publications

Wire arc additive manufacturing (WAAM) has emerged as a useful option for large-scale metal additive manufacturing. It has gained widespread use in the aerospace industry and other applications that require large and complex custom parts. The process is a combination of a precise control system and a welding process, typically GTAW or MIG welding. It is a member of the directed energy deposition (DED) family of AM processes. Compared with many metal AM processes, it is relatively simple and cost-effective but almost always requires a significant amount of postprocessing before parts can be used. The AM-based nature of the process …

Robust Pid Control Of A 2 Dof Robotic Arm Actuated By Permanent Magnet Dc Motors: Lyapunov’S Stability Analysis And Simulation Results, Erik Chumacero-Polanco

Informatics and Engineering Systems Faculty Publications

We present a robust PID control for a 2 DoF exoskeleton actuated by permanent-magnet direct current (PMDC) motors. The control design exploits the architecture of the exoskeleton’s dynamical model, which is regarded as the interconnection of a mechanical and an electrical subsystems. The inner loop control for the mechanical subsystem uses robust PID control while the outer control loop uses a model-based control for the electrical subsystem. Lyapunov’s second method is used to show asymptotic stability of the position and velocity tracking error equilibrium point. Asymptotic stability in Lyapunov sense is proved in a twofold procedure. First, it is shown …

Crack Propagation Behavior Of Polyurethane Grouting Sma Asphalt Mixtures, Ji Guoqi, Ma Hui, Zheng Junqiu, Huang Yujie

Journal of China & Foreign Highway

To reveal the influence me chanis m of polyurethane grouting on the crack propagation behavior of SMA-13 asphalt mixtures, this paper first conducted a semi-circular bending (SCB) test to validate the effectiveness of the PFC2D discrete element model, which was employed to simulate the microscopic responses of mixtures under different notch positions and grouting conditions. The analysis focused on load-displacement curves, crack propagation paths, crack number evolution, and force chain distribution characteristics. The results indicate that polyurethane grouting significantly increases the peak load and peak displacement of the specimens, thereby enhancing the fracture load-bearing capacity and deformation tolerance, with the …

10.27.2025 Ored Connect, Liz Williamson

ORED Newsletter

ORED Field Fest

OTC Director Candidates

Development Of A Mesothelin-Binding Engineered Scaffold Protein As A Theranostic For Pleural Mesothelioma, Roberto Silvestri, Margherita Piccardi, Alessia Laurenza, Filomena Rea, Allison R. Sirois, Martina Lari, Francesco Bartoli, Giovanni Signore, Lorena Tedeschi, Elisabetta Ferraro, Paola Anna Erba, Roberto Giovannoni, Stefano Landi, Federica Gemignani, Sarah J. Moore

Engineering: Faculty Publications

Mesothelin (MSLN) is a tumor biomarker expressed at high levels on the surface of numerous cancers with extremely limited expression in healthy tissues. MSLN-targeting agents developed for diagnosis and therapy could have a significant impact on the management of MSLN-expressing cancers. Pleural mesothelioma (PM) is a deadly cancer that arises from mesothelial cells lining the pleura and is predominantly linked to asbestos exposure. There are currently no effective treatments, and diagnosis occurs in late stages of disease due to the lack of clinical symptoms in the early stages. Recent efforts to diagnose and treat PM have focused on identifying and …

Awe Amtm Geolocation Algorithms, Eric Mckinney, Keith Blonquist, Zack Hatfield, Connor Waite, Pedro Sevilla, Ludger Scherliess, Harri Latvakoski, Greg Cantwell

Space Dynamics Laboratory Publications

Mission Introduction

The AWE instrument images atmospheric gravity waves from the ISS, quantifying energy and momentum fluxes into the ionosphere-thermosphere system to better understand how tropospheric weather influences space weather.

Mission of Opportunity for the NASA Science Mission Directorate, Heliophysics Division.

A Radiation-Hardened 4-Bit Flash Adc With Compact Fault-Tolerant Logic For Seu Mitigation, Fnu Naveed, Jeff Dix

Electrical Engineering and Computer Science Faculty Publications and Presentations

This paper presents a radiation-hardened 4-bit flash analog-to-digital converter (ADC) implemented in a 22 nm fully depleted silicon-on-insulator (FD-SOI) process for high-reliability applications in radiation environments. To improve single-event upsets (SEU) tolerance, the design introduces a compact fault-tolerant logic scheme based on Dual Modular Redundancy (DMR), offering reliability comparable to Triple Modular Redundancy (TMR) while using two storage nodes instead of three, and a simple XOR-based check in place of a majority voter. A distributed sampling architecture mitigates SEU vulnerabilities in the input path, while thin-oxide devices are used in analog-critical circuits to enhance total ionizing dose (TID) resilience. Post-layout …

Sustainable Robotic Construction: A Computational Particle Packing Approach For The Development Of Sustainable, Low-Cement 3d Printable Materials, Aranya Aumit Paul

LSU Master's Theses

Construction 3D Printing (C3DP) holds great potential for automated construction but faces key challenges, including the high Portland cement content of its printing materials. The high cement content raises material costs, causes shrinkage and thermal cracking, and increases its carbon footprint. This study introduces a novel hybrid computational pipeline that combines image based automated gradation analysis with 2D stochastic particle packing simulation, to design low-cement printable materials with minimal experimental testing. The image-based gradation system achieved a mean absolute error under 3.64% across six fine and coarse aggregate types. The particle packing simulation demonstrated an average error of less than …

International Conference On Civil Engineering And Infrastructure, University For Business And Technology (Ubt) In Kosovo

UBT International Conference

UBT Annual International Conference is the 14th international interdisciplinary peer reviewed conference which publishes works of the scientists as well as practitioners in the area where UBT is active in Education, Research and Development. The UBT aims to implement an integrated strategy to establish itself as an internationally competitive, research-intensive university, committed to the transfer of knowledge and the provision of a world-class education to the most talented students from all background. The main perspective of the conference is to connect the scientists and practitioners from different disciplines in the same place and make them be aware of the recent …

Dasisedu’ Program For Seismic Response History Analysis Of 2d Frame Structures With Different Seismic Protection Systems, Isak Idrizi

UBT International Conference

Over the past decades, a lot of effort has been put in studying the mechanical behavior of various base isolation and energy dissipation devices subjected to a range of extreme design situations. This led to the development of validated theories that can describe the dynamic behavior of various seismic base isolators (with the lead-rubber and friction pendulum isolators being amongst the most prominent types used in USA). The authors of this paper took these developed theories as basis for developing the so called ‘DASISedu’ computer program for interactive simulation of the dynamic behavior of typical planar structures (both multistory building …

New Method Of Proportional Prestress Tendon Line (Mpptl) For Continuous Prestressed Concrete Beams With Non-Concordant Cables, Xhemshir Mulliqi

UBT International Conference

This paper presents a new physically consistent analytical approach for continuous prestressed concrete (PSC) beams with non-concordant tendons — the Method of Proportional Prestress Tendon Line (MPPTL). Unlike traditional approaches (Lin [1], Eurocode 2 [2], CEBFIP [3]), which describe moment redistribution empirically, the MPPTL introduces a physical parameter λ–θₚ that correlates the proportional displacement of the prestress tendon line (compression line) with the development of plastic rotation. The method ensures energy balance between the support and midspan regions, establishing a continuous transition from elastic to plastic behaviour. An upper limit for λₘₐₓ is proposed according to the Eurocode 2 redistribution …

Integrating Seismic Survey Data With Zoning Maps For Enhanced Urban Safety And Structural Resilience, Shemsi Mustafa, Visar Krelani, Besian Sinani, Hazir Çadraku

UBT International Conference

Designing a safe and earthquake-resistant environment in seismically active regions requires detailed consideration of the seismic characteristics of urban areas. This study reviews the current frameworks for earthquake risk resistance in urban areas, highlighting the critical role of integrating seismic survey data with seismic zoning maps. Such integration is essential for designers to enhance resident safety and minimize structural damage. Therefore, it is necessary to holistically integrate seismic, geotechnical, geological, topographic, and design data to provide architects and planners with relevant and practical information for construction and land-use planning. Despite this, many cities in Kosovo, located in active seismic zones, …

Generating Arithmetic And Geometric Sequences In Java: A Mathematical Approach, Anjesa Gashi, Hizer Leka

UBT International Conference

This paper demonstrates how mathematical sequences, particularly arithmetic and geometric sequences, can be implemented in programming using Java arrays. In mathematics, sequences are ordered sets of numbers following a specific pattern, whereas in computer science, these sequences can be implemented as arrays. The main goal is to show the similarities between mathematics and programming. A simple Java program generates arithmetic and geometric arrays automatically, allowing students to visualize patterns and understand how to apply mathematical principles in code. This paper explains the process of writing the Java program and provides examples of output arrays. This approach solidifies the understanding of …

Traınıng And Development Of Varıous Open-Source Artıfıcıal Intellıgence Models For Busıness Process Automatıon, Senada Bushati Hoxha, Besmir Guma

UBT International Conference

AI is reshaping traditional businesses into sustainable operations, so it can be used to optimize resource utilization, automate processes for improved efficiency This study aims to explore the potential of open-source artificial intelligence (AI) models for automating and streamlining business processes. Focusing on a company offering a wide range of digital services (websites, applications, ERP, CRM, marketing), the study develops and trains two different AI models, specific to the needs of the business. The main goal is to create an AI “agent” that can interpret natural language commands and activate pre-configured automations through the n8n platform. These automated operations include …

Data Science Against Human Trafficking: Evidence From North Macedonia, Krenar Mehmeti, Shkurte Luma Osmani, Florinda Imeri, Agon Memeti

UBT International Conference

Human trafficking is a severe yet often underreported crime in North Macedonia. With the rapid growth of technology and communication platforms, traffickers have shifted recruitment and exploitation strategies online. This project explores the patterns and trends of human trafficking in Republic of North Macedonia through and through the lens of using Data Mining and Different visual analytics. By using a structured dataset containing Victim demographics, the types of exploitation, recruitment methods and other different attributes, the analysis is Focused on identifying vulnerable groups, especially the individuals of age 18-25 and underage minors. Advanced visualizations have revealed the distribution of trafficking …

The Challenges Of The Digital Transformation Of A Hospital According To The Trends Of Innovative Technological Development, Vehebi Sofiu, Faton Kabashi, Lamir Shkurti, Mirlinda Reqica, Mirlinda Selimaj, Greta Ahma

UBT International Conference

This research discusses the process of managing and digitally transforming a hospital by integrating advanced technologies. The focus of this transformation is patient care and the protection of institutional data through the implementation of Block chain technology to enhance security measures. The goal of this topic is to take preventive measures against information security breaches and cyber threats. The transformation model addresses institutional deficiencies in managing healthcare information and patient records through electronic records. Additionally, it advances technological development to align the use of artificial intelligence with medical care infrastructure. This technology enables training for staff involved in hospital communication, …

Cogeneration Of Energy, Marigona Krasniqi

UBT International Conference

Cogeneration is the process of producing electricity and thermal energy at the same time. Generating energy through this process means using only one energy source, which results in higher energy efficiency. In the energy crisis the world is facing, cogeneration is being considered as a promising alternative for reducing environmental pollution, increasing energy security, supporting the energy transition and economic stability. This paper will describe the cogeneration process and its role in the energy sector, how cogeneration affects energy efficiency and what are the main benefits of this process.

Analytical Design Of Continuous Prestressed Concrete Beams – Methodology, Example, And Comparison With A Simply Supported Beam, Xhemshir Mulliqi

UBT International Conference

This paper presents a complete analytical procedure for continuous prestressed concrete beams (two spans 15 + 15 m). The analysis covers moment distribution, loadbalancing method, prestress losses, thrust-line geometry, and shear verification in accordance with Eurocode 2. Continuity reduces positive bending moments in the spans to approximately wL²/24 while introducing negative moments over the internal support of about wL²/12 , compared to wL²/8 for a simply supported beam. An affine correction of the tendon profile allows fine adjustment of the thrust line without altering the equivalent load wₚ. A practical design example and comparison with numerical FEM results are provided.

The Use Of Artıfıcıal Intellıgence For Fake News Detectıon, Altina Salihu, Diellza Berisha

UBT International Conference

The phenomenon of fake news has become a global concern, directly influencing democratic processes, social perceptions, and public security. Detecting fake news represents a critical challenge for computer science, where Artificial Intelligence (AI) offers advanced solutions through Natural Language Processing (NLP) and text classification techniques. This paper analyzes and compares the main approaches used in this field, ranging from traditional machine learning models such as Naive Bayes and Support Vector Machines (SVM) to modern deep learning architectures like Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM), BERT, and GPT-based models. Furthermore, it discusses widely adopted datasets such as FakeNewsNet and LIAR, which serve as …

An Empirical Analysis Of Requirements For An Automated Elearning Platform: The Case Of Teachers In Kosova, Bleona Çitaku, Faton Kabashi, Lamir Shkurti, Mirlinda Selimaj

UBT International Conference

This paper examines the need for developing an automated e-learning platform that supports adaptive learning for students in Kosovo. Using a mixed-methods approach—both quantitative and qualitative—the responses of 50 teachers were analyzed to understand their perceptions and the challenges associated with using platforms such as Google Classroom, Moodle, and Zoom. The findings indicate that, although there is significant potential to enhance teaching practices, key obstacles remain, including low student engagement and technological difficulties. The study suggests the development of a personalized platform powered by artificial intelligence to improve student participation and the overall effectiveness of distance learning.

Exploring Patterns And Growth In Motor Vehicle Registrations Through Data Visualization, Ensar Krasniqi, Shkurte Luma Osmani, Florim Idrizi, Ermira Memeti

UBT International Conference

This research examines the patterns and trends of motor vehicle registrations in North Macedonia's municipalities between 2012 and 2023. The analysis, which breaks down vehicle types by year, includes motorcycles, passenger cars, buses, and freight vehicles. Every year, the data is arranged into blocks of nine columns, each of which includes comprehensive information for each town. Finding significant insights, such as growth patterns, changes in the popularity of particular vehicle types, and geographical variations, is the aim of this investigation. The project provides a thorough understanding of the evolution of automobile registrations in the nation over time by processing and …

Prime Numbers Through The Ages: Implementing The Sieve Of Eratosthenes In Java, Vesë Vrellaku, Hizer Leka, Alma Novoberdaliu

UBT International Conference

The Sieve of Eratosthenes is one of the oldest yet most efficient algorithms for finding prime numbers up to a given limit. This paper presents an analytical and practical implementation of the sieve, focusing on its mathematical foundations and optimized algorithmic behavior using the Java programming language. The aim is to demonstrate how ancient mathematical logic continues to be applicable in modern computational practices. The study outlines the basic sieve method, explores three critical optimizations that reduce time complexity, and evaluates the algorithm's performance in different scenarios. Moreover, this work contrasts the classical approach with similar prime-finding algorithms and emphasizes …

Digital Technologies For Modernizing Coal-Based Power Systems In Kosovo, Avni Alidemaj, Arbnor Lekaj

UBT International Conference

Proper management of electrical energy and its efficient use have gained increasing importance in recent decades due to the growing demand for energy and the need for environmental sustainability. In this context, the development of modern technologies for building automation and energy management has become an essential part of the technological transformations within the energy and construction sectors. This approach not only aims to reduce energy consumption but also contributes to creating a greener and more sustainable environment, while simultaneously enhancing safety, comfort, and control for users. This paper addresses the design and implementation of an intelligent system for energy …

The Role Of Coal In The Implementation Of The Green Transition Agenda In Kosovo, Nexhmi Krasniqi, Armend Ymeri

UBT International Conference

The recent global energy crisis—fueled by geopolitical tensions, increased energy demand, and persistent dependence on fossil fuels—has highlighted the fragility of current energy systems and the urgent need for a sustainable transformation. High and inefficient energy consumption, closely linked to industrial growth and urban development, continues to undermine ecological balance and accelerate climate change. While technological progress has improved access to renewable sources and advanced energy systems, it has not yet reached the scale or pace required to fully counteract the environmental consequences of unsustainable practices. In response, the European Union has placed the Green Transition and full Decarbonization at …