Engineering Commons^™

Antennas For Emerging Satellite Services, Jakub Przepiorowski

Doctoral

The NewSpace era has revolutionized access to space, driving advancements in satellite communication (SATCOM) systems and creating demand for low-cost, compact, and high-performance user terminals. This thesis addresses these needs by developing innovative antenna solutions tailored for user terminals designed for emerging satellite constellations and satellite Internet-of-Things (S-IoT) applications.

Advanced Nanocomposite-Based Electrochemical Sensor For Ultra-Sensitive Dopamine Detection In Physiological Fluids, Megha Shinde, Gymama Slaughter

Center for Bioelectronics Publications

This study presents a novel point-of-care electrochemical sensor for dopamine (DA) detection, featuring a flexible laser-induced graphene (LIG) modified with a unique nanocomposite comprising Nb₄C₃T_x MXene, polypyrrole (PPy), and iron nanoparticles (FeNPs). The LIG-Nb₄C₃T_x MXene-PPy-FeNPs is characterized by scanning electron microscopy to confirm the successful surface modification. The electrochemical performance of the fabricated sensor via cyclic voltammetry showed significant electrochemical activity upon Nb₄C₃T_x MXene-PPy-FeNPs nanocomposite modification of the LIG surface with an increased peak anodic current (Ipa) from 43 μA to 104 μA. The sensor …

Advances In Bacterial Cellulose-Based Scaffolds For Tissue Engineering: Review, Rewati Raman Ujjwal, Gymama Slaughter

Center for Bioelectronics Publications

Bacterial cellulose (BC) has emerged as a highly versatile and promising biomaterial in tissue engineering, with potential applications across skin, bone, cartilage, and vascular regeneration. Its exceptional properties like high mechanical strength, superior biocompatibility, excellent moisture retention, and inherent ability to support cell adhesion and proliferation, make BC particularly effective for wound healing and skin regeneration. These attributes accelerate tissue repair and foster new tissue formation, highlighting its value in skin-related applications. Additionally, BC's capacity to support osteogenic differentiation, combined with its mechanical robustness, positions it as a strong candidate for bone tissue engineering, facilitating regeneration and repair. Recent advancements …

Gold Nanoparticle-Enhanced Molecularly Imprinted Polymer Electrode For Non-Enzymatic Lactate Sensing, Christopher Animashaun, Abdellatif Ait Lahcen, Gymama Slaughter

Center for Bioelectronics Publications

We are reporting the development of a high-performance, non-enzymatic electrochemical biosensor for selective lactate detection, integrating laser-induced graphene (LIG), gold nanoparticles (AuNPs), and a molecularly imprinted polymer (MIP) synthesized from poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) (PEDOT). The LIG electrode offers a highly porous, conductive scaffold, while electrodeposited AuNPs enhance catalytic activity and signal amplification. The PEDOT-based MIP layer, electropolymerized via cyclic voltammetry, imparts molecular specificity by creating lactate-specific binding sites. Cyclic voltammetry confirmed successful molecular imprinting and enhanced interfacial electron transfer. The resulting LIG/AuNPs/MIP biosensor demonstrated a wide linear detection range from 0.1 µM to 2500 µM, with a sensitivity of 22.42 µA/log(µM) and …

Fabrication Of Thylakoid Membrane-Based Photo-Bioelectrochemical Bioanode For Self-Powered Light-Driven Electronics, Amit Sarode, Gymama Slaughter

Center for Bioelectronics Publications

The transition toward sustainable and decentralized energy solutions necessitates the development of innovative bioelectronic systems capable of harvesting and converting renewable energy. Here, we present a novel photo-bioelectrochemical fuel cell architecture based on a biohybrid anode integrating laser-induced graphene (LIG), poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) (PEDOT), and isolated thylakoid membranes. LIG provided a porous, conductive scaffold, while PEDOT enhanced electrode compatibility, electrical conductivity, and operational stability. Compared to MXene-based systems that involve complex, multi-step synthesis, PEDOT offers a cost-effective and scalable alternative for bioelectrode fabrication. Thylakoid membranes were immobilized onto the PEDOT-modified LIG surface to enable light-driven electron generation. Electrochemical characterization revealed enhanced redox …

Electrochemical And Nanomaterial Based Strategies For Nonenzymatic Glucose Detection: A Review, Reagan Aviha, Gymama Slaughter

Center for Bioelectronics Publications

Electrochemical glucose sensing technologies have undergone significant evolution, with continual advancements aimed at improving sensitivity, selectivity, and user convenience. This review systematically explores the development of emerging nonenzymatic glucose sensor designs. Nonenzymatic sensors are critically evaluated for their ability to overcome enzymatic limitations, leveraging novel materials and catalytic mechanisms. Additionally, the emergence of smartphone-integrated glucose monitoring systems is highlighted as the fifth generation, representing a paradigm shift toward personalized, real-time healthcare management. Emphasis is placed on the strategies employed to reduce the working electrode potential and enhance analytical performance. Key analytical metrics and real-sample applicability are evaluated, and persistent challenges …

Molecular Imprinting And Nanomaterial Synergy For Lactate Detection, Christopher Animashaun, Gymama Slaughter

Center for Bioelectronics Publications

Molecularly imprinted polymer (MIP)-based electrochemical sensors have emerged as promising non-enzymatic platforms for the selective and stable detection of clinically and environmentally relevant biomarkers. This review provides a critical, comprehensive analysis of recent advances in MIP-based lactate sensing, with particular emphasis on hybrid systems that integrate conductive nanomaterials including gold and silver nanoparticles, laser-induced graphene, and reduced graphene oxide. These synergistic combinations leverage enhanced surface area, electrical conductivity, and molecular recognition to improve sensor sensitivity, selectivity, and long-term operational stability. Key fabrication strategies, such as electropolymerization, green nanomaterial synthesis, and surface imprinting, are critically examined for their roles in optimizing …

Field-Curing Methods For Evaluating The Strength Of Concrete Test Specimens, Pranshoo Solanki, Haiyan Xie

Faculty Publications – Technology

The purpose of this combined laboratory and field study was to evaluate field-curing methods of concrete specimens for estimating the early opening strength of an in-place concrete item. One Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) class PV mix was used to cast cylinders, beams, and in-place concrete slabs in October 2021 and February 2022. Concrete cylinders were cured using three methods: ambient air (method #C1), an insulated box/cooler (method #C2), and a power-operated box (method #C3). Beams were cured using two methods: ambient air (method #B1) and an insulated plywood box (method #B2). The cast-in-place specimens from each slab and cylinder …

A Blueprint To Greener Shorelines: Advancing The Effectiveness, Sustainability, And Widespread Adoption Of Coastal Nature-Based Solutions Through Transdisciplinary Research, Taylor M. Sloey, Sierra Hildebrandt, Rebecca L. Morris, Matthew V. Bilskie, Aaron Bland, David Bushek, Gabriella Dipetto, Daniel Elefant, Vincent Encomio, Ramin Familkhalili, Christine Hladik, Danielle Kreeger, Avery B. Paxton, Cindy M. Palinkas, Latina Steele, Andrew Scheld, Daisuke Taira, Jason D. Toft, Armando J. Ubeda, Christine Whitcraft, Donna Marie Bilkovic

Biological Sciences Faculty Publications

Coastal nature-based solutions (NbS) have emerged as powerful tools to enhance sustainable development and ecological restoration goals. As a rapidly growing field spanning across social, political, ecological, economic, and engineering disciplines, it is critical that researchers working in coastal NbS regularly attempt to identify emerging focal areas for scientific inquiry. Following the 27th Biennial meeting of the Coastal and Estuarine Research Federation, we provide a transdisciplinary perspective (including biologists, engineers, oceanographers, geoscientists, economists, and facilitators of workforce training programs) of pertinent research questions that, if answered, will advance the effectiveness, sustainability, and widespread adoption of coastal NbS. These suggestions for …

Form And Function In Mobulids: A Comparative Analysis Of Filter Morphology With Bioinspiration Applications, J. B. Teeple, S. R. Kahane-Rapport, K. E. Cohen, L. Hamann, J. A. Strother, E. W. M. Paig-Tran

Biological Sciences Faculty Publications

Mobulas (manta and devil rays) are large-scale ram filter feeders that separate planktonic food particles from large volumes of water with minimal clogging. This contrasts with most human-made filters that can suffer from problematic clogging requiring additional mechanisms for clearing blocked surfaces and maintaining performance. Prior studies have shown that mobulas employ a unique mechanism referred to as ricochet separation to filter feed, whereby captive vortices in filter pores cause particles to bounce off the filter surfaces and away from the filter pores. This mechanism enables the filtration of particles smaller than the pore size and reduced clogging. However, few …

Ecu-Pmu-Fdi/Tsa, Taylah Griffiths, Mohiuddin Ahmed, Chadni Islam

Research Datasets

Cyberattacks are now targeting the electrical grid due to its inclusion of smart devices, e.g., smart meters, phasor measurement units. The need to understand and review the impacts of attacks is vital. ECU-PMU-FDI/TSA encompasses communications between a phasor measurement unit and a phasor data concentrator, using the IEEE C37.118 protocol. Benign traffic was captured as control, and for attacks false data injection and time synchronization attack traffic were captured.

Internally Stowed, Radially Deployed Radiator Panels For Passive Cubesat Thermal Control, Josh R. Cannon, Kyle N. Havey, Noah S. Housley, Rydge B. Mulford, Brian D. Iverson

Faculty Publications

CubeSats experience significant thermal loads due to solar irradiation and the dissipation from electrical components. The high heat dissipation per unit volume can lead to mission failure if not properly managed. Deployable radiators that are externally stowed and passively actuated in response to changes in CubeSat temperature have been explored as a viable solution. This work describes a radially deployed fin array that is stowed within the CubeSat body when the required heat dissipation is low and passively deploys when the required heat dissipation is high. Internal stowage improves thermal transport to the deployable fins and minimizes heat loss when …

Establishing Performance Criteria For Evaluating Watershed-Scale Sediment And Nutrient Models At Fine Temporal Scales, Aayush Pandit, Sarah Hogan, David Tyler Mahoney, William I. Ford, James F. Fox, Christopher Wellen, Admin Husic

Civil Engineering Faculty Publications

Watershed water quality models are mathematical tools used to simulate processes related to water, sediment, and nutrients. These models provide a framework that can be used to inform decision-making and the allocation of resources for watershed management. Therefore, it is critical to answer the question “when is a model good enough?” Established performance evaluation criteria, or thresholds for what is considered a ‘good’ model, provide common benchmarks against which model performance can be compared. Since the publication of prior meta-analyses on this topic, developments in the last decade necessitate further investigation, such as the advancement in high performance computing, the …

An Approach To Quantifying The Lifecycle Sustainability Impacts Of Tungsten Carbide Tools, Gatewood Arnold, Julian Polizzi, Syed Ibn Mohsin, Daniel Carnesi, Julius Schoop, Fazleena Badurdeen

Mechanical Engineering Faculty Publications

Tungsten carbide cutting tools are widely used for their high machining performance and low cost. However, their cost does not currently reflect the material rarity, environmental costs, nor societal costs associated with their production. Critically, embodied energy makes a sizeable contribution to the total lifecycle energy consumption. This study quantifies the true triple bottom line cost of the tools with respect to established sustainability metrics by leveraging cross-disciplinary insights from the product, process, and system levels. Based on the adjusted cost, a comparative analysis of the cutting tool sustainability on the profitability of a nickel-based superalloy machining process was carried …

A Multi-Scale Finite Element Method For Investigating Fiber Remodeling In Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy, Mohammad Mehri, Kenneth S. Campbell, Lik Chuan Lee, Jonathan F. Wenk

Mechanical Engineering Faculty Publications

A significant hallmark of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is fiber disarray, which is associated with various cardiac events such as heart failure. Quantifying fiber disarray remains critical for understanding the disease’s complex pathophysiology. This study investigates the role of heterogeneous HCM-induced cellular abnormalities in the development of fiber disarray and their subsequent impact on cardiac pumping function. Fiber disarray is predicted using a stress-based law to reorient myofibers and collagen within a multiscale finite element cardiac modeling framework, MyoFE. Specifically, the model is used to quantify the distinct impacts of heterogeneous distributions of hypercontractility, hypocontractility, and fibrosis on fiber disarray development …

A Novel Low-Complex Optimized Resource Allocation Algorithm Using Gwo Optimization Technique In Energy Scavenging For Wban, M. Samir Abou El-Seoud, Amira Olazan, Albashir A. Youssef

Computer Science

In wireless body area networks (WBANs) powered by energy scavenging, effectively managing renewable energy is critical to ensuring delay-sensitive services. This paper proposes a novel low-complex optimized resource allocation algorithm using the Grey Wolf Optimization (GWO) technique to allocate resources, specifically energy and communication channels, and maximize user utility while guaranteeing the worst-case delay. To achieve this, firstly, a formulation of a user utility optimization problem that accounts for the stochastic nature of energy scavenging and consumption without requiring prior knowledge of these processes is performed. Utilizing GWO optimization techniques, optimization problems broke down into four sub-problems: battery management, collection …

Integrated Valuation Of The Ecological, Social And Economic Benefits Provided By A Multifunctional Nature-Based Solution, Laura Costadone, Shan Zhang

ODU Articles

Nature-based Solutions (NbS) offer multifunctional approaches to address climate change and environmental challenges, providing a sustainable alternative to traditional gray infrastructure. Despite their promise, widespread adoption remains limited, in part due to an incomplete understanding of their full costs and benefits relative to conventional infrastructure. Traditional benefit–cost analyses often overlook non-monetized benefits and the interconnected ecosystem services provided by NbS. This study introduces a methodological approach to quantify both the physical and monetary value of ecosystem services and co-benefits delivered by an NbS project. We applied an integrated valuation framework to a case study in Virginia Beach, VA, USA, where …

Mitigation Of Antibiotic Resistance Using Ultraviolet Light-Emitting Diodes For Water Treatment, Nicole Heyniger, Patrick J. Mcnamara, Anthony D. Kappell, Brandon Schultz, Troy Skwor, Brooke K. Mayer

Civil and Environmental Engineering Faculty Research and Publications

The presence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria (ARB) and antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) in the environment is a growing issue, which has been exacerbated by the overuse and misuse of antibiotics in health care and agricultural systems. One means of mitigating antibiotic resistance is through drinking water and wastewater treatment, specifically during disinfection processes. Ultraviolet light-emitting diodes (UV-LEDs) are an emerging disinfection technology featuring adjustable peak wavelength emissions. We assessed the use of UV-LED for treating waterborne ARB (Escherichia coli and Aeromonas hydrophila) and ARGs (intracellular and extracellular) compared to conventional low-pressure UV (LP-UV). Overall, less efficient reduction (bacterial inactivation and/or gene …

Separating The Impacts Of A Corrosion Inhibitor From Copper Corrosion Products On Antibiotic Resistance In Drinking Water, Veronika Folvarska, Maya Adelgren, Emily Lou Lamartina, Ryan J. Newton, Yin Wang, Patrick J. Mcnamara

Civil and Environmental Engineering Faculty Research and Publications

Antibiotic resistance is a growing threat to public health, and environmental factors, including metals in drinking water distribution systems, are increasingly recognized as contributors to the spread of antibiotic resistant bacteria (ARB) and antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs). Zinc orthophosphate, a common corrosion inhibitor, and copper corrosion products (CuO and Cu₂O) are frequently present in drinking water systems. While each has been shown to increase ARB and ARGs individually, their combined effects remain unknown. The objective of this study was to evaluate the combined impact of copper corrosion products and the corrosion inhibitor zinc orthophosphate on antibiotic resistance. Two …

The Genetic Role Of The Dopamine Receptor D4 Gene, Zayden Hill

Student Research Design & Innovation Symposium

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects over 22 million Americans today. Typically, ADHD is first presented during childhood, the exact cause of ADHD is unknown. Genetic mutations, such as those in the DRD4 gene on chromosome 11, have been linked to ADHD. This gene encodes for dopamine receptor D4, which inhibits adenylyl cyclase, an enzyme involved in cell signaling. A missense mutation in DRD4 could hinder the receptor function, contributing to inattentiveness, hyperactivity and impulsivity--core symptoms of ADHD. Epigenetics also plays a role in ADHD development and symptomology. Maternal omega-3 supplementation has been linked to …

Field-Based Device To Test Possible Concussions, Lauren Powers, Samantha Davy, Jianna Truppi

Student Research Design & Innovation Symposium

Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI) are injuries to the brain caused by an outside force from car accidents, falls, and strikes to the head. TBI’s make up 30% of injury related deaths in the US. The market for screening TBI’s was deemed profitable, thus research and development (R&D) was done to create a field-based device. This device targets the demographic of patients with less access to important TBI care, like DIII and high school athletes. It also targets the demographic of people injured in motor vehicle accidents. This inexpensive field-based device is designed to tell a first responder or athletic trainer, …

The Genetic Role Of Pcsk 1, Lisbeth Aquino

Student Research Design & Innovation Symposium

Proprotein convertase subtilisin/Kexin type 1 (PCSK 1) is a rare inherited metabolic disorder associated with severe digestive issues, delayed puberty, and obesity. The cause of this genetic mutation occurs when a person inherits two copies of an autosomal recessive gene. Recessive traits are more common in families who marry close relatives. When the PCSK 1 gene is negatively impacted, it can impair the enzyme function, worsening the disease. As the gene is being mutated, it can create other mutations such as N309K, RCV001374497-rs143209024, and c.1095 + 1G > A. The N309K gene affects the active site of an enzyme that causes …

Bear Claw – An Assistive Grip Device, Brandon Daniels, Nathaniel Neville

Student Research Design & Innovation Symposium

Globally, there are over one million spinal cord injuries (SCI) every year. Out of all trauma patients admitted to US hospitals in that time frame, 3.7% suffer from an SCI with the highest at-risk demographic being males aged 20 to 29. Low-cervical spinal injuries (C5 to C8) make up a large portion of these injuries, which can vastly affect motor control throughout the whole arm in addition to the total functionality of body control below the chest. These patients are wheelchair users and many live with limited control of their arms.

The Bear Claw addresses the daily challenges of gross …

Veritas Brand Guidelines Book, Matteo Lopergolo

Student Research Design & Innovation Symposium

This project followed the development of a comprehensive visual identity standard for the fictitious brand, Veritas International Airlines. The project demonstrated the designer’s thorough understanding of visual identity systems and the application of design principles to create a cohesive and effective brand representation. The designer transformed a basic logo into a fully realized visual identity system, culminating in the creation of a brand standards guide booklet which effectively communicated the brand's identity. A brand standards book ensures consistent use of a brand’s visual and messaging elements, detailing guidelines for logos, colors, typography, and tone. The designer elevated and refined the …

Arduino Based Game Console With Built In Screen, Mekhi Edwards

Student Research Design & Innovation Symposium

As video games today become more sophisticated, the technological demand they place on gaming consoles increases. Portable consoles like Nintendo’s Game Boy Advance are a thing of the past due to the increase in base requirements needed to run games properly. The Arduino Based Game Console with Built in Screen brings back a retro vibe while running a modern processor that can handle the strain of sophisticated games. The Arduino Based Game Console with Built in Screen has two joysticks, a 7 by 5 inch housing and a display of 4 by 3 inches. The console currently includes one game …

The Bear Paw Wide-Grip, Nathan Couture, Vincent Lin, Manuel Urena, Brandon Daniels

Student Research Design & Innovation Symposium

Spinal cord injuries (SCI) affect millions worldwide every year. Injuries in the low cervical region (C5-C8), significantly limit hand function, grip strength, and range of motion. The Bear Paw addresses these impairments by developing a variable assistive grip device with a personalized fit for those with low cervical SCI. This work adopts a unique approach centered around functionality and autonomy with minimal hand movement requirements.

The Bear Paw includes a Wide-Grip prototype that supports users in performing activities of everyday life, such as dressing, shopping, and preparing food. This device is designed with an extra finger on the lateral side, …

Echo-Location Helmet, Nathan Couture, Manuel Urena, Fernando Ibanez Marcos, Donny Mcinnis, Harrison Ullucci, Mekhi Edwards

Student Research Design & Innovation Symposium

Vision loss affects approximately 50 million Americans annually, ranging from partial impairment to complete blindness. The Echo-Location Helmet is designed to assist individuals with visual impairments by providing real-time spatial awareness. The helmet delivers sufficient information to enable users to navigate unfamiliar environments with greater confidence.

The Echo-Location Helmet was constructed using ultrasonic sensors, visual processing, and speech output, integrated through development software and artificial intelligence (AI). The system employs hardware components such as an Arduino microcontroller, a serial camera, ultrasonic sensors, and an MP3 player to detect and alert the user. This provides users with an easy way to …

Harlem Baking Co., Carm Reed, Julia Tyras, Matteo Lopergolo

Student Research Design & Innovation Symposium

Harlem Baking Co. (HBC) is a business located in New York City that handmakes "Little Jars of Happiness." Their desserts come in a variety of flavors (from New York cheesecake to chocolate lava cake) and are baked inside reusable Jars. The team was tasked with redesigning their logo and packaging in partnership with Dr. Jeff Binczyk's marketing class, and designed a website, fridge wrap, and AD campaign. HBC was also kind enough to send samples of their desserts for a photoshoot, which resulted in some amazing photos that are currently on display in their current ads.

Project Curl Brand Identity & Website Design, Mallary Robert, Danitza Ramos-Perez

Student Research Design & Innovation Symposium

This project was completed in collaboration with a JWU student from the entrepreneurship program as part of the Design Team I class. The objective was to develop a brand identity and fully designed website prototype for ProjectCurl, a startup focused on providing affordable and unique hair care solutions for college students with curly hair using a personalized hair quiz to recommend products.

The project covered the full branding process, including logo development, wireframing, and the creation of a comprehensive website prototype. Throughout both the branding and website process, there was consistent feedback and rounds of revisions, which allowed the design …

Nutrient Transport By Overland Sheet Flow On Sites Containing Swine Slurry, John E. Gilley

Department of Agricultural and Biological Systems Engineering: Faculty Publications

Nutrients in agricultural runoff may cause offsite environmental impacts. The objective of this investigation was to examine nutrient transport by overland sheet flow on sites containing swine slurry. Data examined in this study was collected during field rainfall simulation tests conducted on cropland sites in southeast Nebraska, USA. Inflow was added to the top of experimental plots in four successive increments to simulate runoff rates occurring at greater downslope distances. Runoff rates on the experimental sites ranged from 2.3 to 21.2 L min⁻¹ and maximum equivalent downslope distances varied from 5 to 108 m. Phosphorus (P) and nitrogen (N) …