Engineering Commons^™

An In Vitro Investigation Of Urothelial Cell Function In Response To Hypoxia And Pressure In Relation To Bladder Outlet Obstruction, Britney Hudson

All Dissertations

Bladder outlet obstruction (BOO) is a prevalent urological condition and can be characterized by the presence of lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS), such as hesitancy, weak stream, and nocturia. The main cause of BOO is a partial blockage of the urethra, which results in elevated voiding pressure, high storage pressure, and tissue ischemia, which are thought to be the triggers of bladder inflammation and subsequent fibrosis. Often patients do not seek treatment until the conditions get severe. Thus, it would be ideal to have an early diagnostic tool to detect changes in the bladder due to BOO. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) …

Tin-Silver As A Novel Biodegradable Metallic Biomaterial, Charley Goodwin

All Dissertations

The Essure device is a non-hormonal, minimally-invasive, permanent female sterilization implant, removed from the market due to an increase in adverse events, hypothesized to be caused by corrosion of the Sn-Ag component of the implant. The goals of this dissertation were to first develop implant retrieval methods for Essure devices and surrounding tissue, documenting signs of degradation and metallic degradation products, then to characterize the electrochemical behavior of Sn-Ag in biologically representative environments and finally, to assess the biological interaction of Sn-Ag. Retrieval analyses developed successful methods, qualifying the degree of corrosion, primarily of the Sn-Ag component and finding Sn …

The Role Of Voluntary Descending Control In Enhancing Motor Function Via Transcutaneous Spinal Cord Stimulation, Yoon Kim

McKelvey School of Engineering Theses & Dissertations

Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a life-changing event that causes lasting motor impairments. Transcutaneous spinal cord stimulation (tSCS), a non-invasive form of neuromodulation in which electrodes are placed on the skin and used to stimulate the spinal circuits via an electrical current, has demonstrated positive effects on motor function recovery in individuals who have had SCIs. However, the precise mechanism of how tSCS interacts with voluntary descending drive remains poorly understood. This study aims to investigate the role of voluntary descending control in influencing reflex responses triggered by tSCS.

Electromyography (EMG) recordings were performed in ten unimpaired individuals while they …

Development Of A Wearable Short-Wave Infrared Photoplethysmography Device For Detection And Monitoring Of Hemodilution During Postpartum Hemorrhage, Hannah Gruensfelder

McKelvey School of Engineering Theses & Dissertations

ABSTRACT OF THE THESIS

A Thesis on the Development of a Wearable Short-Wave Infrared Photoplethysmography Device for Detection and Monitoring of Hemodilution During Postpartum Hemorrhage

by

Hannah Gruensfelder

Master of Science in Biomedical Engineering

Washington University in St. Louis, 2024

Professor Christine O’Brien, Chair

Postpartum hemorrhage (PPH), the leading cause of maternal death and morbidity, affects nearly 14 million people worldwide each year, disproportionally impacting racial minorities and people in low resource settings. A timely diagnosis of PPH is key in providing optimal patient care, as an estimated 90% of deaths due to PPH are preventable with early diagnosis and …

Environment And Response Of 3d-Encapsulated Mesenchymal Stem Cells To Mechanical Loading, Augustus Greenwood

McKelvey School of Engineering Theses & Dissertations

This thesis explores the micromechanical environment induced when cyclically compressing hydrogels via finite element modeling and experimentally on the impact of loading on mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) when encapsulated withing 3D hydrogel matrices. Degenerative joint diseases, characterized by cartilage degradation, present significant challenges due to cartilage's limited self-repair capacity. Innovative approaches, including stem cell-based therapies and engineered biomaterials, have emerged as promising strategies for cartilage repair and regeneration. This work specifically investigates the calibration of a bioreactor, the uniformity of load response across the hydrogel constructs via finite element modeling (FEM), and the stress response of MSCs subjected to various …

Modeling Of Nk Cells In Pediatric Patients With Unusually Severe Or Recurrent Hsv Using High-Dimensional Flow Cytometry, Yunran Feng

McKelvey School of Engineering Theses & Dissertations

HSV infection is broadly spread all over the world with some patients having severe and/or recurrent HSV infections. Our lab studies human Natural Killer (NK) cells, which are important in innate immune responses to viral infections and tumors. A publication in 2013 by Ornstein et al from our lab studied HSV+ pediatric patients and found some associations between severe infection and defects in NK cytolytic function. PLCG2 haploinsufficient variants found in 2 HSV patients causing PLCγ2 hypophosphorylation, and loss of cytolytic function in NK cells is a novel finding recently published by Alinger et al from our lab in 2023. …

Utendo Sleeve- A Tendon To Muscle Fixation Device, Sarah Miller

Chancellor’s Honors Program Projects

No abstract provided.

Broadening The Application Range Of Cell-Free Protein Expression Systems, Matthew Becker

All Theses

Centralized protein manufacturing platforms make the delivery of needed therapies to places with limited infrastructure almost impossible. Cell-free protein expression systems, systems that utilize protein production machinery extracted from cells, offer these communities a viable protein expression platform that is robust and easily deliverable to the place of need. Much work in cell-free system engineering looks to increase the hardiness of cell-free system (CFS) components, like the extract and reaction buffer, needed to carry transcription and translation of gene therapeutic targets forward. Freeze- and air-drying of extract, reaction buffer, or both with certain additives, like sugar molecules, has been proposed …

Secured Blockchain And Fractional Discrete Cosine Transform-Based Framework For Medical Images, Abhay Kumar Yadav, Virendra P. Vishwakarma

Makara Journal of Technology

Images can store large amounts of data and are useful for transmitting large amounts of information across different geographical locations using different cloud services. This data sharing increases the chances of cyber-attacks on digital images. Blockchain has properties that enable it to work as a solution to this problem, providing enhanced security and unchangeable storage. However, image size poses a challenge in image storage, as it increases the related storage cost. Compressing images using fractional discrete cosine transform (fctDCT) reduces the amount of data required to express an image securely. This paper presents a novel framework for securely storing and …

Comparison Of Four In Vitro Test Methods To Assess Nucleus Pulposus Replacement Device Expulsion Risk, Tahmanna Rahman, Matthew J. Kibble, Gianluca Harbert, Nigel Smith, Erik Brewer, Thomas P. Schaer, Nicolas Newell

Faculty Scholarship for the Rowan-Virtua School of Translational Biomedical Engineering & Sciences

Background

Nucleus replacement devices (NRDs) are not routinely used in clinic, predominantly due to the risk of device expulsion. Rigorous in vitro testing may enable failure mechanisms to be identified prior to clinical trials; however, current testing standards do not specify a particular expulsion test. Multiple methods have therefore been developed, complicating comparisons between NRD designs. Thus, this study assessed the effectiveness of four previously reported expulsion testing protocols; hula-hoop (Protocol 1), adapted hula-hoop (Protocol 2), eccentric cycling (Protocol 3), and ramp to failure (Protocol 4), applied to two NRDs, one preformed and one in situ curing.

Methods

Nucleus material …

Mathematical Modeling For Dental Decay Prevention In Children And Adolescents, Mahdiyeh Soltaninejad

Dissertations

The high prevalence of dental caries among children and adolescents, especially those from lower socio-economic backgrounds, is a significant nationwide health concern. Early prevention, such as dental sealants and fluoride varnish (FV), is essential, but access to this care remains limited and disparate. In this research, a national dataset is utilized to assess sealants' reach and effectiveness in preventing tooth decay, particularly focusing on 2nd molars that emerge during early adolescence, a current gap in the knowledge base. FV is recommended to be delivered during medical well-child visits to children who are not seeing a dentist. Challenges and facilitators in …

Low Impedance, Durable, Self-Adhesive Hydrogel Epidermal Electrodes For Electrophysiology Recording, Naiyan Wu

McKelvey School of Engineering Theses & Dissertations

Traditional electrodes used for electrophysiology recording, characterized by their hard, dry, and inanimate nature, are fundamentally mismatched with the soft, moist, and bioactive characteristics of biological tissues, leading to suboptimal skin-electrode interfaces. Hydrogel materials, mirroring the high water content and biocompatibility of biological tissues, emerge as promising candidates for epidermal electronic materials due to their adjustable physicochemical properties. However, challenges such as inadequate electrical conductivity, elevated skin impedance, unreliable adhesion in moist conditions, and performance decline from dehydration have significantly restricted the efficacy and applicability of hydrogel-based electrodes. In this thesis, we report a high-performance hydrogel epidermal electrode patch for …

Ambulatory Electrocardiographic Monitoring, Genesis V. Garay, Arath Sanchez

ATU Research Symposium

•Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the world's leading cause of death, especially prevalent in low- and middle-income countries. Up to 80% of premature heart attacks and strokes are preventable. •Current ambulatory electrocardiographic (ECG) monitors, while effective in diagnosing heart rhythm issues, are often cost-prohibitive and have limitations like short monitoring periods, user-initiated recording, and offline data analysis. •This poster summarizes the foundation of the creation of a monitoring system that attempts to address these issues.

Advancing Brain Tumor Segmentation With Spectral–Spatial Graph Neural Networks, Sina Mohammadi, Mohamed Allali

Engineering Faculty Articles and Research

In the field of brain tumor segmentation, accurately capturing the complexities of tumor sub-regions poses significant challenges. Traditional segmentation methods usually fail to accurately segment tumor subregions. This research introduces a novel solution employing Graph Neural Networks (GNNs), enriched with spectral and spatial insight. In the supervoxel creation phase, we explored methods like VCCS, SLIC, Watershed, Meanshift, and Felzenszwalb–Huttenlocher, evaluating their performance based on homogeneity, moment of inertia, and uniformity in shape and size. After creating supervoxels, we represented 3D MRI images as a graph structure. In this study, we combined Spatial and Spectral GNNs to capture both local and …

Tunable Dual-Phase Dual-Drug Delivery System Using A Plga Microparticle/Pva Hydrogel Composite, Timothy John Eck

Theses and Dissertations

Current drug-eluting coatings have demonstrated controlled long-term, sustained release but have only tried to mitigate short-term burst release as a negative side effect. For applications like wound healing, there is a need for a drug-eluting coating which is adjustable in both short- and long-term release, independent of each other. We present a tunable dual-phase dual-drug delivery coating composed of drug-loaded polymer microparticles and drug-loaded hydrogel which can control short term and long term release individually in this study. This coating was created using lidocaine and dexamethasone encapsulated in poly(D,L-lactide-co-glycolide) particles combined with lidocaine- and dexamethasone-loaded poly(vinyl alcohol) hydrogel. Hydrogel drug …

Physical And Geometrical Modulation Of Human Fibroblast Behaviour, Sarah M. Brooks

Electronic Thesis and Dissertation Repository

This thesis investigates the impact of mechanical stimuli, specifically substratum topography and elastic modulus, on dermal and gingival fibroblast behaviour associated with scarring and regeneration. Scar formation presents a significant issue for implanted biomaterials often leading to device failure. Even though scar formation is a normal end point to adult human dermal wound healing, gingival wounds are capable of tissue regeneration or scarless wound healing. Understanding how these cells respond to environmental cues, including substratum topography and elastic modulus, is central to the development of novel biomaterials for stimulation of tissue regeneration. It was hypothesized that topographic features, with submicron …

Bioactive And Electrically Conductive Nanocomposite Bone Biomaterials, Rebeca A. Arambula-Maldonado

Electronic Thesis and Dissertation Repository

Electrically conductive carbon-based materials are emerging as potential biomaterials for bone tissue engineering. Their incorporation into organic-inorganic nanocomposites mimics the structural composition and electrically conductive nature of bone.

The aim of this research was to design bone biomaterials from gelatin-based polymers, tertiary bioactive glasses (BG) via a sol-gel method, and multiwall carbon nanotubes (MWCNT). The incorporation of calcium into organic-inorganic nanocomposites plays an essential role in the development of bioactive bone biomaterials. Calcium chloride and calcium ethoxide were investigated as calcium sources in gelatin-BG-MWCNT nanocomposites. The resulting surface elemental distribution was homogeneous, but the swelling, degradation and porosity properties of …

Theory Of Development And Improvement Of The Mathematical Model Of The Methodology Of Public Control In The Management Of Occupational Safety And Industrial Risks, Aliakbar Khamidullaevich Rasulev, Sunnatilla Suleymanovich Suleymanov, Nodira Bakhadirzhanovna Gaibnazarova

Technical science and innovation

The article develops and analyzes a mathematical model based on a logical flowchart of the methodology of public control in the management of occupational safety and industrial risks and probability theory, according to the model, the results of compliance with the requirements of social cooperation on occupational safety lead to a sharp increase in the probability of reliability, management efficiency becomes higher. Analysis of the mathematical model of the developed logical flowchart based on probability theory has shown that when the parties cooperate to monitor the results of compliance with labor protection requirements, they lead to a sharp increase in …

Solving Water Resources Problems - Water Saving In The Republic Of Uzbekistan, Rustam Muxammatdjanovich Raximov

Technical science and innovation

In this article we will talk about the problems of water resources in the Republic of Uzbekistan. The problem of drinking water supply, solutions to provide drinking water to the population of Uzbekistan. The largest consumers of fresh water in Uzbekistan are farmers. Due to outdated infrastructure, 40% of water is wasted. Rising food prices and the risk of spreading disease are the first signs of water shortages that we may experience in the coming еars. Uzbekcosmos told how to solve the problem. Water is an invaluable resource used not only in the home, but also in the production and …

Selective Oxidation Of Iron In Chalcopyrite For Enhanced Copper Recovery, Khojiakbar Shuxrat O'G'Li Sultonov, Shokhrukh Toshpulatovich Khojiev, Gulnoza Berdiyor Qizi Beknazarova, Malika Sayfullayevna Saidova

Technical science and innovation

This study explores the thermodynamic feasibility of selectively oxidizing iron contained in chalcopyrite mineral while preventing the oxidation of copper sulphide, with the ultimate goal of enhancing the copper concentration in the sulphide concentrate. A redox reaction in the solid phases between chalcopyrite and copper (I) oxide was constructed and subjected to thermodynamic analysis. The research identifies a crucial temperature range of 498-598 K (225-325 °C) as the most favourable for the redox reaction. The equilibrium constants at the selected optimal temperatures, 1.152 for chalcopyrite and 1.137 for copper (I) oxide, indicate that the redox reaction adheres to the expected …

Modelling Of Heat Transfer In An Air Solar Collector, Shakhnoza Abduvaxitovna Sultanova, Jasur Esirgapovich Safarov, A.A. Mambetsheripova

Technical science and innovation

This study is the prediction, depending on time and different geographical and climatic situations, of different operating parameters: solar radiation, ambient and outlet coolant temperature, heat exchange coefficients and losses. All these determine, in the absence of measurements, the efficiency of the system modelled with existing models with respect to these parameters. These models are usually compared with experimental results. Before modelling, it is necessary to investigate the different heat transfer and exchange regimes that exist between the different elements of this system in order to eventually have a system of equations governing this exchange. The modelling principle is to …

Implementing A Solar Photovoltaic Station In Watering Systems Utilizing Complex Software, Akbarxon Sarvar O'G'Li Uroqov, Faxriddin Jaylovovich Nosirov, G'Olibjon Pardayevich Arzikulov, Zarina Amriddin Qizi Sayfutdinova

Technical science and innovation

This article explores the benefits of transitioning from traditional agricultural irrigation systems to more cost-effective alternatives powered by renewable energy sources. By integrating solar photovoltaic technology into irrigation processes, significant reductions in resource wastage, estimated at 45-50%, are achievable through the implementation of drip irrigation techniques. This results in enhanced agricultural productivity. Moreover, the utilization of solar panels in green zones mitigates surface temperature increases, contributing to a 2-5% boost in electricity production. Currently, irrigation facilities primarily rely on the main energy grid. However, transitioning to renewable energy sources decreases reliance on non-renewable fuels, reduces greenhouse gas emissions, and fosters …

Research Of The Influence Of Dust On Photovoltaic Modules, Anvarjon Mirolimov, Xalmurat Iliev

Technical science and innovation

The influence of dust concentrations on the current-voltage characteristics (voltampere characteristics) of photovoltaic modules (PVM) based on crystalline silicon in laboratory conditions. It was investigated how an uncleaned panel affects the output power. The tests were carried out in the city of Tashkent on the territory of the “National Research Institute of Renewable Energy Sources”. The objects were located co-plurally as specified in GOST R 60904-1 Photoelectric devices. Part 1. Measurement of current-voltage characteristics. Measurements of a cleaned photovoltaic module with a maximum power of 330 W and not a cleaned one of 236 W were obtained. Based on the …

Use Of Mathematical Skills For Technical Condition Assessment Of Power Autotransformers, Dilafruz Rustamjon Qizi Abdullabekova, Nurali Berdiyorovich Pirmatov

Technical science and innovation

In this paper, we review innovative approaches to assess the technical condition of autotransformers using mathematical methods. The main purpose of these methods is to increase the efficiency of diagnostics and prevent possible failures in power systems. The developed mathematical expression is based on complex data analysis, application of statistical methods and machine learning technologies. This makes it possible to achieve more accurate and earlier detection of potential problems. As a result of these innovative approaches, the possibilities for early detection and prevention of faults are significantly increased. This is important for ensuring the smooth operation of power systems and …

Quantitative Assessment And Characterization Of Tool Wear Phenomena In Advanced Manufacturing Processes, Oybek Valijonovich Tuyboyov

Technical science and innovation

This paper explores the quantitative assessment and characterization of tool wear phenomena in advanced manufacturing processes, employing a multifaceted approach encompassing traditional measurements, image processing, machine learning, and predictive modeling. The study emphasizes the intricate dynamics of tool wear and its direct impact on cutting tool performance, addressing challenges in real-time monitoring and optimization of machining operations. Traditional methods like VBmax measurement are juxtaposed with advanced techniques such as the improved conditional generative adversarial net with a high-quality optimization algorithm (CGAN-HQOA), efficient channel attention destruction and construction learning (ECADCL), and shape descriptors based on contour, moments, orientations, and texture. Artificial …

A Study On The Influence Of Cutting Parameters On Surface Roughness And Visualization Through Contour Plots And 3d Surface Profiles, Zayniddin Nosirovich Muxiddinov

Technical science and innovation

This research investigates the intricate relationship between cutting parameterscutting speed, feed rate, and depth of cut and surface roughness in machining processes. Surface roughness is a key determinant of machined surface quality, and optimizing cutting parameters is crucial for achieving superior finishes. Employing advanced visualization techniques, including contour plots and 3D surface profiles, the study offers a comprehensive exploration of surface topography dynamics. Statistical analyses and regression modeling enhance the quantitative understanding of how cutting parameters interact to shape surface roughness. The research affirms the significant influence of cutting speed, feed rate, and depth of cut, providing practical insights for …

Redesign Of Robotic Walking Training Device To Involve Zero Gravity Capabilities And Daily Activities, Chad Ballard

Mechanical Engineering Theses

Many patients struggle with disabilities that hinder their ability to walk. This project aimed to create a leg assembly capable of variable gravity so that it could be combined with a Robotic Walking Training Device, and lead to better rehabilitation options for patients. This was accomplished by deriving equations of joint torque, creating circuit diagrams for Arduino systems, modeling leg assemblies in CAD, and finally combining it to create a working small-scale prototype. The result of the prototype testing showed accurate movement on each joint, especially the ankle and knee segments, to create virtual zero gravity. In addition to this, …

Engineering Transcriptional Regulation For Cell-Based Therapies., Matthias Recktenwald, Evan Hutt, Leah Davis, James Macaulay, Nichole M. Daringer, Peter Galie, Mary Staehle, Sebastian Vega

Faculty Scholarship for the Rowan-Virtua School of Translational Biomedical Engineering & Sciences

A major aim in the field of synthetic biology is developing tools capable of responding to user-defined inputs by activating therapeutically relevant cellular functions. Gene transcription and regulation in response to external stimuli are some of the most powerful and versatile of these cellular functions being explored. Motivated by the success of chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapies, transmembrane receptor-based platforms have been embraced for their ability to sense extracellular ligands and to subsequently activate intracellular signal transduction. The integration of transmembrane receptors with transcriptional activation platforms has not yet achieved its full potential. Transient expression of plasmid DNA is …

Pulsed Electric Fields Sensitize Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus To Antibacterial Therapies And Stimulate Host Immune Responses, Alexandra E. Chittams-Miles

Biomedical Sciences Theses & Dissertations

This research explores the impact of nanosecond pulsed electric fields (nsPEF) on two fronts: their immune stimulatory effects and their potential as a novel strategy to enhance the sensitivity of Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) to clinically relevant antibiotics. While pulsed electric fields have been reported to have an immune stimulatory effect, the mechanisms responsible for these effects have yet to be determined.

Our investigation addresses the rising concern of MRSA derived skin and soft tissue infections (SSTIs). Consistent with other publications, we found that nsPEF alone cause modest inactivation of planktonic MRSA. We then investigated the effects of nsPEF in …

Exploring Human Aging Proteins Based On Deep Autoencoders And K-Means Clustering, Sondos M. Hammad, Mohamed Talaat Saidahmed, Elsayed A. Sallam, Reda Elbasiony

Journal of Engineering Research

Aging significantly affects human health and the overall economy, yet understanding of the underlying molecular mechanisms remains limited. Among all human genes, almost three hundred and five have been linked to human aging. While certain subsets of these genes or specific aging-related genes have been extensively studied. There has been a lack of comprehensive examination encompassing the entire set of aging-related genes. Here, the main objective is to overcome understanding based on an innovative approach that combines the capabilities of deep learning. Particularly using One-Dimensional Deep AutoEncoder (1D-DAE). Followed by the K-means clustering technique as a means of unsupervised learning. …