Engineering Commons^™

Platinum Nanoparticle-Based Collision Electrochemistry For Rapid Detection Of Breast Cancer Mcf-7 Cells, Fu-Xing Qin, Ming-Ke Li, Hui-Long Zhou, Wei Wen, Xiu-Hua Zhang, Sheng-Fu Wang, Zhen Wu

Journal of Electrochemistry

Cancer metastasis is the leading cause of death in cancer patients worldwide and one of the major challenges in treating cancer. Circulating tumor cells (CTCs) play a pivotal role in cancer metastasis. However, the content of CTCs in peripheral blood is minimal, so the detection of CTCs in real samples is extremely challenging. Therefore, efficient enrichment and early detection of CTCs are essential to achieve timely diagnosis of diseases. In this work, we constructed an innovative and sensitive single-nanoparticle collision electrochemistry (SNCE) biosensor for the detection of MCF-7 cells (human breast cancer cells) by immunomagnetic separation technique and liposome signal …

Highly Sensitive Detection Of Strontium Ions Using Metal-Organic Frameworks Functionalized Solid-State Nanochannels, Xu-Gang Wang, Zheng-Xu He, De-Fang Ding, Xue-Qin Luo, Li Dai, Wei-Qi Zhang, Qun Ma, Yu Huang, Fan Xia

Journal of Electrochemistry

Strontium-90, a highly radioactive isotope, accumulates within the food chain and skeletal structure, posing significant risks to human health. There is a critical need for a sensitive detection strategy for Strontium-90 in complex environmental samples. Here, solid-state nanochannels, modified with metal-organic frameworks (MOF) and specific aptamers, were engineered for highly sensitive detection of strontium ion (Sr²⁺). The synergistic effect between the reduced effective diameter of the nanochannels due to MOF and the specific binding of Sr²⁺ by aptamers amplifies the difference in ionic current signals, enhancing detection sensitivity significantly. The MOF-modified nanochannels exhibit highly sensitive detection of …

The Adviser Of Journal Of Electrochemistry Professor Christian Amatore Received The Chinese Government Friendship Award, Editorial Office Of J.Electrochem.

Journal of Electrochemistry

No abstract provided.

Goodbye With Tears! Deep Condolences To Academician Zhao-Wu Tian!, Editorial Office Of J.Electrochem.

Journal of Electrochemistry

No abstract provided.

Journal Of Electrochemistry Is Selected To Entering Ici Journals Master List, Editorial Office Of J.Electrochem.

Journal of Electrochemistry

No abstract provided.

Optimizing In-Situ Upgrading Of Heavy Crude Oil Via Catalytic Aquathermolysis Using A Novel Graphene Oxide-Copper Zinc Ferrite Nanocomposite As A Catalyst, Attia Attia, Ahmed Ashraf Soliman Eng., Mostafa Aboul-Fetouh Prof., Sayed Gomaa Prof., Tarek Aboul-Fotouh Prof.

Petroleum Engineering and Gas

Unconventional resources, such as heavy oil, are increasingly being explored and exploited due to the declining availability of conventional petroleum resources. Heavy crude oil poses challenges in production, transportation, and refining, due to its high viscosity, low API gravity, and elevated sulfur and metal content. Improving the quality of heavy oil can be achieved through the application of steam injection, which lowers the oil’s viscosity and enhances its flow. However, steam injection alone falls short of meeting the growing demand for higher-quality petroleum products. Catalytic upgrading is therefore being investigated as a viable solution to improve heavy oil quality. This …

Bipolar Ionization Did Not Reduce Airborne Bacteria In A Lecture Hall, David A. Kormos, Nishit J. Shetty, Elliott T. Gall, Aaron J. Prussin, Amy Pruden, Linsey C. Marr

Mechanical and Materials Engineering Faculty Publications and Presentations

Ionization treatment of indoor air has attracted attention for its potential to inactivate airborne pathogens and reduce disease transmission, yet its real-world effectiveness remains unverified. We evaluated the impact of an in-duct, bipolar ionization system on airborne particles, including culturable bacteria, in a lecture hall. The ionizer was off with variable fan speed for 1 week, on with variable fan speed for a second week, and on with high and constant fan speed for a third week. We measured ion concentrations and aerosol particle concentrations, and we collected bioaerosol samples for analysis of 16S rRNA gene copies representing total bacteria …

Design Of End Bent Piles For Downdrag, Tanna Frye

USF Tampa Graduate Theses and Dissertations

Embankments are commonly used for bridge approaches, with mechanically stabilized earth (MSE) walls being the preferred choice in Florida. However, the construction of embankments leads to the settlement of the underlying soil, regardless of soil type. When piles are driven before embankment construction, the initial settlement of the original soil creates relative movement between the pile and the surrounding soil, introducing frictional forces. When the existing soils move downward relative to the pile, a downward-oriented side shear known as downdrag is introduced. While downdrag is addressed in current codes and textbooks, it is often only briefly mentioned and primarily in …

Multiscale & Multiphysics Model Of Damage In Lithium-Ion Batteries, Edris Akbari

LSU Doctoral Dissertations

The demand for safer and more reliable lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) in electric vehicles has increased significantly, especially in addressing mechanical failures like internal short circuits (ISCs), which can lead to thermal runaway. This research investigates the mechanical behavior and damage mechanisms in lithium-ion pouch cells through a multiscale and multiphysics approach, focusing on Lithium Nickel Manganese Cobalt Oxide (NMC) and Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) batteries.

The study involved quasi-static and dynamic mechanical tests, including indentation and high-speed penetration, to evaluate stress-strain responses and fracture behaviors. Anisotropic mechanical properties were measured for individual battery components (anode, cathode, separator, and shell) using …

Design Of Mathematical Model For Surface Roughness: Optimizing Rsm Through Process Parameters In Machining, Mevludin Shabani, Xhemajl Mehmeti

UBT International Conference

This research paper presents the design of mathematical model aimed at optimizing surface roughness, with a specific focus on the mean width of surface profile peaks (Rsm) during turning operations. It identifies cutting speed and feed rate as critical factors influencing Rsm, highlighting that feed rate exerts the most significant impact on surface quality. Increased feed rates result in coarser finishes due to greater distances between the cutting tool's contact points, whereas lower feed rates yield smoother surfaces. The study also explores how variations in feed rate can affect machining stability, leading to issues such as vibration, tool engagement challenges, …

Innovative Use Of Load Cell Technology For Analyzing Strength Of Plastic Shopping Bags: A Case Study, Ylli Rexhaj, Redon Rexhepi, Fidan Smaili

UBT International Conference

Load cells are essential components in modern measurement systems, widely utilized across various industries for precise force and weight measurements. This article presents the application of load cell technology in industry and in the testing field. In our project, an SC133 aluminum load cell with a highprecision weight sensor capable of measuring up to 20 kg was used. The load cell is mounted as a cantilever beam in a specially designed construction to ensure the testing of plastic bags and is connected through a microcontroller. The HX711 signal amplifier module was used, and data were monitored through an LCD screen …

Comparative Evaluation Of Microcontrollers For Real-Time Heart Rate Monitoring And Tachycardia/Bradycardia Detection, Arxhend Jetullahu, Luan Mulaku, Saranda Demolli

UBT International Conference

A surge in the yearning for portable gadgets related to healthcare has ignited a coupling of microchip controllers with models from the realm of machine learning, aimed at the task of immediate health observation. It's quite paramount, specifically in the context of identifying irregularities in heart rate, like tachycardia—where the heart races unusually fast—and bradycardia, an instance of a sluggish heartbeat. The neat thing is that this study takes a stab at contrasting the effectiveness among three popular microcontroller types—the ESP32, the Raspberry Pi, and the Arduino Nano 33 BLE Sense—in terms of real-time tracking of heartbeats and spotting any …

Using Object-Based Classification To Estimate Built-Up Density In An Urban Environment: A Case Study In Ferizaj, Kosova, Pajtim Zariqi, Lena Halounova

UBT International Conference

In this research, built-up density is quantified in Ferizaj’s urban setting through object-based classification on Planet Imagery (0.5m) acquired in 2019. The identification of homogeneous urban features is done by using ArcGIS Pro software and Mean Shift Segmentation. This segmentation is rather useful in the identification of clusters by incorporating the spatial and spectral characteristics that distinguish builtup and non-built-up regions. Training samples were obtained from satellite imagery and aerial images collected in 2019 with equal distribution of samples in the classification. Object-based classification has major benefits over pixel-based techniques in using spatial context and minimizing misclassification in urban areas. …

Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopic Characterization Of Raw And Thermally Treated Clays From Albania, Sidorela Vishkulli, Ilda Tole, Sonila Vito, Maria Hoxhaj, Ilirjana Boci

UBT International Conference

There is growing interest in using thermally treated clays as supplementary cementitious materials (SCMs) in construction. The suitability of the clays as SCMs varies according to their origin and composition. Clay minerals undergo several changes when heated, including dehydration, dehydroxylation, structural collapse, and new phases formation. This paper aims to evaluate the structural changes and modifications induced by thermal treatment of some selected clays from Albania. After grinding and sieving, the selected clays are treated thermally for one hour in different temperature values, ranging from 550 to 750°C. The raw and treated clays are analysed with FTIR spectrometer in order …

Expectations And Satisfaction Of Clients Who Collaborate With Architects For Interior Design, Ramadan Topuzi, Erblina Asani, Rrahim Sejdiu, Bujar Jashari, Agron Bajraktari

UBT International Conference

The study analyzes the needs, expectations and satisfaction of customers; considering the design skills of architects in the time of rapid technological developments and innovations, for the creation of an interior environment as attractive as possible. The study considers data from 230 respondents through questionnaires structured for this purpose, through purposive sampling as a non-probability sampling approach. The data were analyzed according to averages by grouping the respondents according to professions. The results show different levels of expectations regarding the time it takes to realize the design and the expected deadlines for the completion of the entire project. The design …

Comparison Between Concrete Column Retrofitting And Steel Jacketing, Blendi Ethemi, Asrim Rapuca

UBT International Conference

The project focuses on the strengthening of structural elements, specifically a column in a building being transformed from its current P+1 structure, used for residential purposes, into a new P+2 structure intended to serve as a bookstore and storage space. The analysis begins with the assessment of the current structure in two key aspects: the capacity of the existing column dimensions to accommodate new loads (ductility factor) and the verification of the concrete class through non-destructive testing. After completing the inspection of the current structure, two options are proposed for the central column of the building: concrete retrofitting by increasing …

Voltage Stability Analyses In Kosovo Power System, Kadri Kadriu, Armend Ymeri, Nexhmi Krasniqi

UBT International Conference

In recent years, there has been an increase in the frequency of blackouts in the system. On 21 June 2024 at 12:24 CET, due to a major incident in the Continental Europe power system region, a large part of the transmission systems of Albania, Montenegro, Bosnia and Herzegovina as well as Croatia suffered a voltage collapse followed by a total blackout. Research into preventing blackouts in power systems is crucial. Voltage stability analysis using the modal method is the focus of this paper, which is applied to the case study of the Kosovo power system. The voltage stability margin in …

Performance Analysis Of A 1 Mw Pv System Connected To The Distribution Grid, Armend Ymeri, Nexhmi Krasniqi, Kadri Kadriu, Alban Shala

UBT International Conference

This paper provides a thorough performance analysis of a 1 MW photovoltaic (PV) system integrated with the distribution network. The study evaluates the system's efficiency by examining the performance of both the PV modules and inverters. It presents detailed visualizations of the system, including peak power, the number of panels and inverters, panel orientation, tilt angles, and the spatial layout of the system in its deployment environment. Understanding these factors is crucial for assessing how the system will perform in its specific setting and for implementing necessary adjustments to enhance efficiency and electricity production. The paper highlights the impact of …

Comparison Of Synthetic And Real Earthquake Time Histories Recorded At Seismic Station Gjilan From The Peja Earthquake (Ml=5.1), Shemsi Mustafa, Visar Krelani, Besian Sinani

UBT International Conference

Based on the historical catalog of earthquakes and the seismic hazard map for a recurring period of 95, 475, 975 years, Kosovo has a high potential for seismic hazards, necessitating the integration of data from disciplines such as seismogeotecnic to assess these risks effectively. High-frequency seismic ground motions are critical for engineers conducting non-linear dynamic structural analysis, especially in performance-based seismic design. By simulating earthquake ground motions using models that accurately reflect variations in intensity and frequency over time, we can improve predictions of structural performance. The purpose of the development of artificial time-histories is to provide the designer with …

Integration Of Drone Technology And Gis For Spatial Data Generation And Analysis Of The Municipal Waste Dump Of Pristina, Xhesika Hasa, Hazir Çadraku

UBT International Conference

The integration of drone technology and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) in civil engineering has significantly revolutionized the way data is collected, analyzed, and interpreted in various engineering projects. Drones offer a cost-effective and efficient solution for capturing high-resolution aerial imagery and generating detailed topographic maps. GIS provides a powerful platform for managing, analyzing, and visualizing the vast amount of spatial data collected by drones. This combination allows engineers to accurately measure distances, monitor construction progress, assess site conditions, and identify potential hazards. As such, this research aims to explore the practical a pli-cation, benefits, challenges, and future prospects of using …

The Role Of Cement Type And Origin In Achieving Concrete Class, Blendi Ethemi

UBT International Conference

This study investigates the influence of the type and origin of cement on the final strength and quality of concrete. Cement is a crucial component in concrete production, directly affecting its durability and environmental resistance. The primary challenge in the industry is the failure to achieve the required concrete class within 28 days, often attributed to the cement's origin and composition. Through laboratory testing, this research compares the performance of various cement types from different origins to assess their impact on the compressive strength of concrete. The results aim to provide a clearer understanding of the types of cement used …

Water Quality Standards Assessment, Using Epanet Modeling– Prishtina Case – Oxidation-Reduction Of Manganese On Dw Network, Sokol Xhafa

UBT International Conference

Thermal stratification and water movement in reservoirs are key natural processes. While most effects of this movement are beneficial, such as increased oxygen levels, the presence of manganese (Mn) poses a challenge. During autumn, water circulation causes manganese to shift from its solid Mn(4+) form to the dissolved Mn(2+) form, preventing sedimentation and leading to issues in water treatment and distribution networks. This report focuses on these challenges at the Badovc Reservoir, near Prishtina, Kosovo. Built in 1965, Badovc is one of the oldest reservoirs in the country. Manganese, while usually an aesthetic issue that can cause "black water," can …

Building Efficient Energy And Pollution Control, Afrim Syla

UBT International Conference

The purpose of the Research paper is through the development of new integrated low energy building solutions entirely based on extensive energy savings and renewable energy supply to meet the society’s demands of 2030 and beyond for zero energy buildings. This is an attempt to develop a working definition for Zero Energy Building, which can be used by the participants in the research paper to focus their research and their development of new technologies. Secondly, the working definition might also be used as basis for a discussion of ”Near Zero Energy Building” definition for future energy regulations in Kosovo that …

Sensitivity Of Asphalt Pavements To Extreme Weather Conditions, Bekim Selimi, Beni Kizolli

UBT International Conference

Asphalt pavements constructed in warmer climates are more prone to rutting, whereas pavements in colder climates are more susceptible to cracking. Pavement mixtures should be designed not only to handle the high stresses exerted by wheel loads but also to withstand thermal stresses caused by extreme weather conditions. For heavy-duty pavements, it is crucial that both coarse and fine aggregate particles meet quality characteristics related to shape, texture, durability, and absorption. The selection of the asphalt binder for mixture design is equally important. The choice of high and low performance grades of asphalt binder primarily depends on the project’s location. …

Exploring Interpretable Machine Learning For Modeling Nonlinear Dynamic Systems, Liron Morina, Rina Peja, Getoar Vranovci

UBT International Conference

This paper provides an analysis of the interpretable machine learning (IML) approach applied to various nonlinear dynamic systems. The study focuses on modeling the restoring force by neural networks with two input values: displacement and velocity. A parallel neural network with the proposed architecture, initialized randomly, mirrors the designed model. Both models undergo multiple training and testing cycles on identical datasets to ensure robust statistical validation. The findings demonstrate that interpretable artificial neural networks (ANNs) outperform randomly initialized models in terms of accuracy and result consistency. This research provides valuable insights into the application of IML techniques for advancing the …

The Importance Of Gypsum In The Process Of Hydration Of Cement, Ibush Luzha, Bujar Aliu, Teodor Zguro

UBT International Conference

Gypsum plays an essential role in the cement bonding process of hydration of cement, acting as a setting time regulator. In the construction industry, Portland cement, which is the most commonly used, tends to strengthen very quickly after mixing with water, making it difficult to manipulate and shape. By adding small amounts of gypsum to the mix, the setting time is extended, allowing to work with the material for a longer period of time. This also regulates the exothermic reaction, avoiding possible cracks and damages in the built structures. In addition, gypsum contributes to improving the overall quality of the …

Analysis Of Bicycle Network Infrastructure - Example Of Gjakova Municipality, Beni Kizolli, Florin Halili

UBT International Conference

Asphalt During the war (1998-1997), the municipality of Gjakova suffered great destruction, especially in terms of construction and infrastructure. Since that time, the demand for new constructions and reconstructions of old residential houses as well as road infrastructure was increasing. The development of the construction and infrastructure sector has also influenced the increase in the number of employees in this sector. Due to the lack of experience in this field, many professional and complex problems have been encountered both in the field of infrastructure and in the field of traffic regulation. The formation of the state of Kosovo (1999-2007), initially …

Climate Change Impacts On Water Resources, Andrin Kerpaci, Ilir Abdullahu

UBT International Conference

Climate change threatens source water quality through increased pollutant and sediment runoff, reduced water availability from drought, and negative impact on overall efforts to maintain water quality. Heavy rainfall is predicted to increase due to climate change. Heavy rainfall can increase pollutant runoff and sedimentation in source waters such as rivers, lakes and streams. Such runoff and sedimentation can complicate treatment in drinking water utilities and result in increased costs. Increased erosion and sedimentation can reduce water quality, clog stormwater management systems, and reduce storage capacity. The paper presents the great importance of climate changes in the water resources used …

A Particle-Based Simulation Of A Dam Break Interacting With An Obstacle, Tapan Jucivil, Amit Shaw, L S. Ramachandra

UBT International Conference

Knowledge of dam break events is crucial to assess the potential hazards of sudden water releases and develop better disaster management plans. This work develops a computational model based on a messfree method, called the Smoothed Particle Hydrodynamics (SPH), to simulate situations when a dam breaks and there is an obstruction in the route of the flowing water. The model accurately simulates the complex interactions between fluid and structure by including a weakly compressible fluid and using a cubic kernel function to govern particle interactions. To maintain realistic simulation results, a repulsive boundary condition is used to prevent particles from …

Self-Healing Concrete (Shc): A Systematic Literature Review Of Environmental Benefits And Applications (2019-2023), Visar Hoxha, Hyrmete Baca Gashi, Veli Lecaj, Fuat Pallaska, Hazer Dana, Jehona Hoxha

UBT International Conference

This research aimed to provide a comprehensive understanding of the environmental implications of self-healing concrete (SHC) through a systematic literature review. Adopting the methodological framework proposed by Tranfield et al. (2003), the study consolidated fragmented knowledge across the domain. Data collection was executed using Google Scholar, targeting articles from 2019 to 2023, resulting in an initial pool of 60 potential articles. Rigorous screening narrowed this to 17 articles that were critically analyzed for patterns, consistencies, and discrepancies, inspired by Yin's (1994) approach. The synthesis stage generated new insights, framing them into a coherent narrative on SHC's environmental impact. Notably, while …