1
|
Baur E, Tiberghien B, Amstad E. 3D Printing of Double Network Granular Elastomers with Locally Varying Mechanical Properties. Adv Mater 2024:e2313189. [PMID: 38530246 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202313189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2023] [Revised: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 03/27/2024]
Abstract
Fast advances in the design of soft actuators and robots demand for new soft materials whose mechanical properties can be changed over short length scales. Elastomers can be formulated as highly stretchable or rather stiff materials and hence, are attractive for these applications. They are most frequently cast such that their composition cannot be changed over short length scales. A method that allows to locally change the composition of elastomers on hundreds of micrometer lengths scales is direct ink writing (DIW). Unfortunately, in the absence of rheomodifiers, most elastomer precursors cannot be printed through DIW. Here, 3D printable double network granular elastomers (DNGEs) whose ultimate tensile strain and stiffness can be varied over an unprecedented range are introduced. The 3D printability of these materials is leveraged to produce an elastomer finger containing rigid bones that are surrounded by a soft skin. Similarly, the rheological properties of the microparticle-based precursors are leveraged to cast elastomer slabs with locally varying stiffnesses that deform and twist in a predefined fashion. These DNGEs are foreseen to open up new avenues in the design of the next generation of smart wearables, strain sensors, prosthesis, soft actuators, and robots.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eva Baur
- Soft Materials Laboratory, Institute of Materials, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Lausanne, 1015, Switzerland
- National Center of Competence in Research Bio-Inspired Materials, Fribourg, 1700, Switzerland
| | - Benjamin Tiberghien
- Soft Materials Laboratory, Institute of Materials, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Lausanne, 1015, Switzerland
| | - Esther Amstad
- Soft Materials Laboratory, Institute of Materials, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Lausanne, 1015, Switzerland
- National Center of Competence in Research Bio-Inspired Materials, Fribourg, 1700, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Touitou E, Natsheh H. The Evolution of Emerging Nanovesicle Technologies for Enhanced Delivery of Molecules into and across the Skin. Pharmaceutics 2024; 16:267. [PMID: 38399321 PMCID: PMC10892037 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics16020267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2023] [Revised: 02/07/2024] [Accepted: 02/09/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
This review focuses on nanovesicular carriers for enhanced delivery of molecules into and across the skin, from their design to recent emerging technologies. During the last four decades, several approaches have been used aiming to design new nanovesicles, some of them by altering the properties of the classic phospholipid vesicle, the liposome. Phospholipid nanovesicular systems, including the phospholipid soft vesicles as well as the non-phospholipid vesicular carries, are reviewed. The altered nanovesicles have served in the manufacture of various cosmetic products and have been investigated and used for the treatment of a wide variety of skin conditions. The evolution and recent advances of these nanovesicular technologies are highlighted in this review.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elka Touitou
- The Institute for Drug Research, School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Ein Kerem, P.O. Box 12065, Jerusalem 9112102, Israel;
| | | |
Collapse
|
3
|
Ye W, Zhao L, Luo X, Guo J, Liu X. Perceptual Soft End-Effectors for Future Unmanned Agriculture. Sensors (Basel) 2023; 23:7905. [PMID: 37765962 PMCID: PMC10537409 DOI: 10.3390/s23187905] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2023] [Revised: 08/19/2023] [Accepted: 08/28/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023]
Abstract
As consumers demand ever-higher quality standards for agricultural products, the inspection of such goods has become an integral component of the agricultural production process. Unfortunately, traditional testing methods necessitate the deployment of numerous bulky machines and cannot accurately determine the quality of produce prior to harvest. In recent years, with the advancement of soft robot technology, stretchable electronic technology, and material science, integrating flexible plant wearable sensors on soft end-effectors has been considered an attractive solution to these problems. This paper critically reviews soft end-effectors, selecting the appropriate drive mode according to the challenges and application scenarios in agriculture: electrically driven, fluid power, and smart material actuators. In addition, a presentation of various sensors installed on soft end-effectors specifically designed for agricultural applications is provided. These sensors include strain, temperature, humidity, and chemical sensors. Lastly, an in-depth analysis is conducted on the significance of implementing soft end-effectors in agriculture as well as the potential opportunities and challenges that will arise in the future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Weikang Ye
- College of Biosystems Engineering and Food Science, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China; (W.Y.)
| | - Lin Zhao
- College of Biosystems Engineering and Food Science, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China; (W.Y.)
| | - Xuan Luo
- College of Biosystems Engineering and Food Science, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China; (W.Y.)
| | - Junxian Guo
- College of Mechanical Engineering, Xinjiang Agricultural University, Urumqi 830052, China
| | - Xiangjiang Liu
- College of Biosystems Engineering and Food Science, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China; (W.Y.)
- College of Mechanical Engineering, Xinjiang Agricultural University, Urumqi 830052, China
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Keeys NI, Patel DK, LeDuc P, Majidi C. Soft magnetic thin film deformation with a bistable electropermanent magnet. Eng Res Express 2023; 5:035071. [PMID: 37881479 PMCID: PMC10594592 DOI: 10.1088/2631-8695/acf2e8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2023] [Revised: 06/13/2023] [Accepted: 08/22/2023] [Indexed: 10/27/2023]
Abstract
Physically soft magnetic materials (PSMMs) represent an emerging class of materials that can change shape or rheology in response to an external magnetic field. However, until now, no studies have investigated using an electropermanent magnet (EPM) and magnetic repulsion to magnetically deform PSMMs. Such capabilities would enable the ability to deform PSMMs without the need for continuous electrical input and produce PSMM film deformation without an air gap, as would be required with magnetic attraction. To address this, we introduce a PSMM-EPM architecture in which the shape of a soft deformable thin film is controlled by switching between bistable on/off states of the EPM circuit. We characterized the deflection of a PSMM thin film when placed at controlled distances normal to the surface of the EPM and compared its response for cases when the EPM is in the 'on' and 'off' states. This work is the first to demonstrate a magnetically repelled soft deformable thin film that achieves two electronically-controlled modes of deformation through the on and off states of an EPM. This work has the potential to advance the development of new magneto-responsive soft materials and systems.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nolen I. Keeys
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University, United States of America
| | - Dinesh K. Patel
- Human-Computer Interaction Institute, Carnegie Mellon University, United States of America
| | - Philip LeDuc
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University, United States of America
| | - Carmel Majidi
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University, United States of America
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Puneky GA, Batchler KA, Kollapaneni SS, Blair JA, Davis JM. Simplified soft tissue coverage of the distal lower extremity: The reverse sural flap. OTA Int 2023; 6:e235. [PMID: 37448567 PMCID: PMC10337849 DOI: 10.1097/oi9.0000000000000235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2022] [Accepted: 12/05/2022] [Indexed: 07/15/2023]
Abstract
Soft tissue defects involving the distal lower extremity present challenging problems for orthopaedic surgeons to manage. Historically, wounds not amenable to primary closure have necessitated assistance from multidisciplinary teams using plastic surgeons to obtain adequate soft tissue coverage through rotational flap or free tissue transfer procedures. Techniques related to soft tissue rearrangement and local rotational flap coverage have advanced over the years with a growing knowledge of local anatomy and vasculature. The reverse sural flap may be performed to cover soft tissue defects within 10 cm of the foot or ankle region, negating the need for microvascular intervention. The simplistic nature of the reverse sural flap is appealing to orthopaedic surgeons as a means to provide timely patient care without additional support because it does not require microvasculature work or the need for intraoperative microscopes and has been popularized among orthopaedic trauma surgeons as a necessary tool to possess. Here, we discuss the reverse sural flap to include history, relevant anatomy, clinical indications, and a description of the technique for application.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- George A. Puneky
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA
| | - Kathryn A. Batchler
- Medical Student, Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University, Augusta, GA
| | - Sai S. Kollapaneni
- Medical Student, Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University, Augusta, GA
| | - James A. Blair
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA
| | - Jana M. Davis
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Vasile CM, Bouteiller XP, Avesani M, Velly C, Chan C, Jalal Z, Thambo JB, Iriart X. Exploring the Potential of Artificial Intelligence in Pediatric Echocardiography-Preliminary Results from the First Pediatric Study Using AI Software Developed for Adults. J Clin Med 2023; 12:3209. [PMID: 37176649 PMCID: PMC10179538 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12093209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2023] [Revised: 04/17/2023] [Accepted: 04/25/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
(1) Background: Transthoracic echocardiography is the first-line non-invasive investigation for assessing pediatric patients' cardiac anatomy, physiology, and hemodynamics, based on its accessibility and portability, but complete anatomic and hemodynamic assessment is time-consuming. (2) Aim: This study aimed to determine whether an automated software developed for adults could be effectively used for the analysis of pediatric echocardiography studies without prior training. (3) Materials and Methods: The study was conducted at the University Hospital of Bordeaux between August and September 2022 and included 45 patients with normal or near normal heart architecture who underwent a 2D TTE. We performed Spearman correlation and Bland-Altman analysis. (4) Results: The mean age of our patients at the time of evaluation was 8.2 years ± 5.7, and the main reason for referral to our service was the presence of a heart murmur. Bland-Altman analysis showed good agreement between AI and the senior physician for two parameters (aortic annulus and E wave) regardless of the age of the children included in the study. A good agreement between AI and physicians was also achieved for two other features (STJ and EF) but only for patients older than 9 years. For other features, either a good agreement was found between physicians but not with the AI, or a poor agreement was established. In the first case, maybe proper training of the AI could improve the measurement, but in the latter case, for now, it seems unrealistic to expect to reach a satisfactory accuracy. (5) Conclusion: Based on this preliminary study on a small cohort group of pediatric patients, the AI soft originally developed for the adult population, had provided promising results in the evaluation of aortic annulus, STJ, and E wave.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Corina Maria Vasile
- Department of Pediatric and Adult Congenital Cardiology, University Hospital of Bordeaux, 33600 Bordeaux, France
| | - Xavier Paul Bouteiller
- IHU Liryc—Electrophysiology and Heart Modelling Institute, Bordeaux University Foundation, 33600 Pessac, France
- Department of Cardiology, Rythmology, CHU of Bordeaux, 33600 Pessac, France
| | - Martina Avesani
- Department of Cardiac, Thoracic, Vascular and Public Health Sciences, University of Padua, 235122 Padova, Italy
| | - Camille Velly
- Department of Pediatric and Adult Congenital Cardiology, University Hospital of Bordeaux, 33600 Bordeaux, France
| | - Camille Chan
- Department of Pediatric and Adult Congenital Cardiology, University Hospital of Bordeaux, 33600 Bordeaux, France
| | - Zakaria Jalal
- Department of Pediatric and Adult Congenital Cardiology, University Hospital of Bordeaux, 33600 Bordeaux, France
| | - Jean-Benoit Thambo
- Department of Pediatric and Adult Congenital Cardiology, University Hospital of Bordeaux, 33600 Bordeaux, France
| | - Xavier Iriart
- Department of Pediatric and Adult Congenital Cardiology, University Hospital of Bordeaux, 33600 Bordeaux, France
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Alsiri N, Palmer S. Biomechanical changes in the gastrocnemius medius-Achilles tendon complex in people with hypermobility spectrum disorders: A cross-sectional compression sonoelastography study. Front Med (Lausanne) 2023; 10:1062808. [PMID: 36744140 PMCID: PMC9892054 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2023.1062808] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2022] [Accepted: 01/05/2023] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective This study aimed to assess the biomechanical impact of Hypermobility Spectrum Disorders (HSD) on the elasticity of the gastrocnemius medius-Achilles tendon (GM-AT) complex. Methods Using a cross-sectional design, the GM-AT complex elasticity was compared using sonoelastography (SEG) in an HSD group and healthy controls during rest and maximal isometric plantar flexion contraction. Results The HSD group comprised 28 patients (26 women); mean ± SD age 28.7 ± 8.4 years, compared to 28 controls (26 women); 31.5 ± 8.7 years. During rest, greater elasticity was identified in HSD relative to controls at the GM-AT musculotendinous junction (strain ratio 2.05 ± 1.31 vs. 1.48 ± 0.49), mid-AT (3.60 ± 1.97 vs. 2.66 ± 1.00), and distal AT (4.57 ± 2.69 vs. 3.22 ± 1.94) (all p < 0.05). During contraction, no significant differences were found between groups at the GM-AT musculotendinous junction (3.40 ± 2.16 vs. 2.62 ± 1.07), mid AT (10.75 ± 5.29 vs. 8.49 ± 3.53), or distal AT (8.55 ± 5.39 vs. 8.83 ± 3.51) (all p > 0.05). No significant differences were found between groups in the GM strain ratio during rest (4.05 ± 1.43 vs. 3.62 ± 0.78), or contraction (4.23 ± 1.29 vs. 4.19 ± 1.31). Exploratory Receiver Operator Characteristics curve analysis suggested low sensitivity and specificity of the strain ratio for the diagnosis of HSD. Conclusion People with HSD have greater GM-AT complex elasticity. Although statistically significant group differences were identified, further research is required to establish the diagnostic, clinical, and research utility of strain ratio measurements.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Najla Alsiri
- Al-Razi Orthopedics and Rehabilitation Hospital, Kuwait, Kuwait,*Correspondence: Najla Alsiri,
| | - Shea Palmer
- Centre for Care Excellence, University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire NHS Trust, Coventry University, Coventry, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Sim HJ, Noh JH, Choi JH, Choi C. Integrated Mechano-Electrochemical Harvesting Fiber and Thermally Responsive Artificial Muscle for Self-Powered Temperature-Strain Dual-Parameter Sensor. Sensors (Basel) 2022; 23:269. [PMID: 36616867 PMCID: PMC9824410 DOI: 10.3390/s23010269] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2022] [Revised: 12/15/2022] [Accepted: 12/24/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Significant progress in healthcare fields around the world has inspired us to develop a wearable strain−temperature sensor that can monitor biomedical signals in daily life. This novel self-powered temperature−strain dual-parameter sensor comprises a mechano-electrochemical harvester (MEH) and a thermally responsive artificial muscle (TAM). The MEHTAM system generates electricity from strain and thermal fluctuations. In addition, the sensor is comfortable to wear, owing to its stretchability (>100%), softness (<3 MPa), and one-dimensional fibers (diameter 230 μm). The MEH induces a change in the electrochemical capacitance, resulting in an electrical signal under applied strain (34 μA/m) and stress (20 μA/(m·MPa)). The TAM can be used as a mechanical temperature sensor, because the tensile stroke responds linearly to changes in temperature. As the harvester and artificial muscle are combined, the MEHTAM system generates electricity, owing to external and internal mechanical stimuli caused by muscle contractions as a response to temperature changes. The MEHTAM system that we have developed—a self-powered, strain−temperature dual-parameter sensor that is soft, stretchable, and fiber-shaped—is an interesting candidate for the production of comfortable, wearable, dual-parameter sensors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hyeon Jun Sim
- Department of Energy and Materials Engineering, Dongguk University, Seoul 04620, Republic of Korea
| | - Jun Ho Noh
- Department of Energy and Materials Engineering, Dongguk University, Seoul 04620, Republic of Korea
- Department of Advanced Battery Convergence Engineering, Dongguk University, Seoul 04620, Republic of Korea
| | - Jin Hyeong Choi
- Department of Energy and Materials Engineering, Dongguk University, Seoul 04620, Republic of Korea
| | - Changsoon Choi
- Department of Energy and Materials Engineering, Dongguk University, Seoul 04620, Republic of Korea
- Research Center for Photoenergy Harvesting & Conversion Technology (PHCT), Dongguk University, Seoul 04620, Republic of Korea
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
You CH, Huang CH. Effects of Leg Stiffness Regulated by Different Landing Styles on Vertical Drop Jump Performance. J Hum Kinet 2022; 83:29-37. [PMID: 36157958 DOI: 10.2478/hukin-2022-0066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of stiffness regulated by landing styles on drop jump performance. Twenty-four male lacrosse athletes performed drop jumps with stiff (ST), self-selected (SS), and soft (SF) landing from a 0.42 m box. Leg stiffness, ground contact time, depth, jump height, maximum ground reaction force (GRF), GRF at the start of the propulsive phase, mean power, peak power, and the reactive strength index (RSI) were calculated. The results showed that jump height and the RSI had strong correlations to power production in all drop jump styles. Power would be a key factor to overall athletic performance. Repeated measures ANOVA showed significant differences (p < 0.05) in all variables among the three styles. Drop jumps with SS landing had comparable jump height to drop jumps with SF landing and power output to drop jumps with ST landing. Drop jumps with ST landing had significantly lower jump height, but higher GRF, power, and the RSI compared to drop jumps with SF landing. In drop jump testing, drop jumps with SS landing should be used if power and jump height were the major concerns; if the RSI was the major concern, drop jumps with ST landing should be used. Training with drop jumps, one of the main objectives should be increasing power output due to its significant correlation to jump height and the RSI in all conditions.
Collapse
|
10
|
Sim HJ, Kim J, Choi JH, Oh M, Choi C. Stretchy Electrochemical Harvesters for Binarized Self-Powered Strain Gauge-Based Static Motion Sensors. Sensors (Basel) 2022; 22:4542. [PMID: 35746323 PMCID: PMC9231270 DOI: 10.3390/s22124542] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2022] [Revised: 06/13/2022] [Accepted: 06/15/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
The human monitoring system has motivated the search for new technology, leading to the development of a self-powered strain sensor. We report on the stretchable and soft stretchy electrochemical harvester (SECH) bilayer for a binarized self-powered strain gauge in dynamic and static motion. The active surface area participating in the electrochemical reaction was enhanced after stretching the SECH in the electrolyte, leading to an increase in the electrochemical double-layer capacitance. A change in the capacitance induced a change in the electrical potential of the bilayer, generating electrical energy. The SECH overcomes several challenges of the previous mechano-electrochemical harvester: The harvester had high elasticity (50%), which satisfied the required strain during human motion. The harvester was highly soft (modulus of 5.8 MPa), 103 times lower than that of the previous harvester. The SECH can be applied to a self-powered strain gauge, capable of measuring stationary deformation and low-speed motion. The SECH created a system to examine the configuration of the human body, as demonstrated by the human monitoring sensor from five independent SECH assembled on the hand. Furthermore, the sensing information was simplified through the binarized signal. It can be used to assess the hand configuration for hand signals and sign language.
Collapse
|
11
|
Li X, Peng S, Yu R, Li P, Zhou C, Qu Y, Li H, Luo H, Yu L. Co-Application of 1-MCP and Laser Microporous Plastic Bag Packaging Maintains Postharvest Quality and Extends the Shelf-Life of Honey Peach Fruit. Foods 2022; 11:foods11121733. [PMID: 35741931 PMCID: PMC9222991 DOI: 10.3390/foods11121733] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2022] [Revised: 05/31/2022] [Accepted: 06/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Honey peach (Prunus persica L.) is highly nutritious; it is an excellent source of sugars, proteins, amino acids, vitamins, and mineral elements. However, it is a perishable climacteric fruit that is difficult to preserve. In this study, “Feicheng” honey peach fruit was used as a test material to investigate the synergistic preservation effect of 1-methylcyclopropene (1-MCP) and laser microporous film (LMF). The peach fruits were fumigated for 24 h with 2 μL L−1 1-MCP, then packed in LMF. In comparison with the control treatment, 1-MCP + LMF treatment markedly decreased the respiration rate, weight loss, and rot rate of peach fruits. Moreover, the combination of 1-MCP and LMF suppressed the increase in soluble solids (SS) and reducing sugars (RS), as well as the decrease in titratable acid (TA) and ascorbic acid (AsA). The combined application also maintained a high protopectin content and low soluble pectin content; it reduced the accumulation of superoxide anions (O2−) and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). Except in a few samples, the catalase (CAT) and ascorbate peroxidase (APX) activities were higher when treated by 1-MCP + LMF. Conversely, the phenylalanine deaminase (PAL), peroxidase (POD), lipase, lipoxygenase (LOX), polygalacturonase (PG), β-glucosidase, and cellulase (Cx) activities were lower than in the control. Furthermore, 1-MCP + LMF treatment reduced the relative abundances of dominant pathogenic fungi (e.g., Streptomyces, Stachybotrys, and Issa sp.). The combined treatment improved the relative abundances of antagonistic fungi (e.g., Aureobasidium and Holtermanniella). The results indicated that the co-application of 1-MCP and LMF markedly reduced weight loss and spoilage, delayed the decline of nutritional quality, and inhibited the physiological and biochemical metabolic activities of peach during storage. These changes extended its shelf-life to 28 days at 5 °C. The results provide a reference for the commercial application of this technology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xuerui Li
- Agro-Products Processing Research Institute, Yunnan Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Kunming 650221, China; (X.L.); (Y.Q.); (H.L.)
| | - Sijia Peng
- School of Food Science and Pharmaceutical Engineering, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing 210023, China; (S.P.); (R.Y.)
| | - Renying Yu
- School of Food Science and Pharmaceutical Engineering, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing 210023, China; (S.P.); (R.Y.)
| | - Puwang Li
- South Subtropical Crop Research Institute of Chinese Academy of Tropical Agricultural Sciences, Key Laboratory of Hainan Province for Postharvest Physiology and Technology of Tropical Horticultural Products, Zhanjiang 524091, China; (P.L.); (C.Z.)
| | - Chuang Zhou
- South Subtropical Crop Research Institute of Chinese Academy of Tropical Agricultural Sciences, Key Laboratory of Hainan Province for Postharvest Physiology and Technology of Tropical Horticultural Products, Zhanjiang 524091, China; (P.L.); (C.Z.)
| | - Yunhui Qu
- Agro-Products Processing Research Institute, Yunnan Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Kunming 650221, China; (X.L.); (Y.Q.); (H.L.)
| | - Hong Li
- Agro-Products Processing Research Institute, Yunnan Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Kunming 650221, China; (X.L.); (Y.Q.); (H.L.)
| | - Haibo Luo
- School of Food Science and Pharmaceutical Engineering, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing 210023, China; (S.P.); (R.Y.)
- Correspondence: (H.L.); (L.Y.)
| | - Lijuan Yu
- Agro-Products Processing Research Institute, Yunnan Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Kunming 650221, China; (X.L.); (Y.Q.); (H.L.)
- Correspondence: (H.L.); (L.Y.)
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Abstract
CLINICAL RELEVANCE Contact lens prescribing data serve as a benchmark for eye care clinicians in assessing their own prescribing patterns and provide useful contextual information for researchers and the contact lens industry. PURPOSE To document global trends in contact lens prescribing during the first two decades of this century. METHODS A longitudinal survey of contact lens prescribing was conducted by asking contact lens practitioners to provide 11 items of information from 10 consecutive contact lens fits between January and March each year from 1996 to 2020, inclusive. RESULTS Data relating to 406,859 contact lens fits were collected from 71 countries between 1996 and 2020, generating 4.5 million data points. Demographic analysis for 61 nations returning ≥100 fits demonstrated that a majority of lenses (65-70%) were fitted to females. The average age of lens wearers was 30.8 ± 13.9 years for males and 32.5 ± 14.3 years for females. Trend analysis of 20 countries returning prescribing data for ≥13 years between 2000 and 2020 revealed the following: increase in the age of lens wearers; dramatic rise in the extent of fitting silicone hydrogel and daily disposable lenses; increased fitting of soft toric and multifocal lenses; increasing proportion of rigid lens fits in specialist (non-spherical) designs; incomplete provision of near contact lens corrections for contact lens wearing presbyopes; ongoing low levels of extended wear fits; and almost exclusive use of multi-purpose care systems. Daily disposable lenses were used for both full-time and part-time wear, whereas rigid and soft reusable lenses were primarily worn full time. CONCLUSIONS The evolution of international contact lens fitting over the first two decades of this century is documented. The data presented here may assist all stakeholders in advancing contact lens clinical practice, informing contact lens research, and guiding contact lens manufacturers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Philip B Morgan
- Eurolens Research, Division of Pharmacy and Optometry, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Nathan Efron
- School of Optometry and Vision Science, Queensland University of Technology, Kelvin Grove, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Kondyli E, Pappa EC, Arapoglou D, Metafa M, Eliopoulos C, Israilides C. Effect of Fortification with Mushroom Polysaccharide β-Glucan on the Quality of Ovine Soft Spreadable Cheese. Foods 2022; 11:417. [PMID: 35159567 DOI: 10.3390/foods11030417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2021] [Revised: 01/26/2022] [Accepted: 01/26/2022] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
In the present work, a fresh spreadable cheese from ovine milk with or without (control) fortification with β-glucan was manufactured. β-Glucan was extracted from the mushroom Pleurotus ostreatus and its concentration in the cheese was 0.4% (w/w). The composition, biochemical, and sensory properties of the cheeses during 21 days of storage were determined. At the end of storage, cheese fortified with beta-glucan had 75.26% moisture content, 10.30% fat, 1.71% salt, and 8.50% protein. Generally, the addition of β-glucan at this concentration did not significantly affect the composition, color, and viscosity measurements or the level of proteolysis and lipolysis and the antioxidant activity of the cheeses. However, cheese fortified with β-glucan showed a higher moisture content than control cheese on the 1st and 21st day of storage while the levels of proteolysis and the sensory properties of the cheeses were unaffected. During the sensory evaluation, panelists evaluated cheese with β-glucan with higher scores regarding the flavor characteristic compared to control cheese. The major free fatty acid was acetic acid in both cheeses and its concentration was higher in cheese with β-glucan. The results of the present study could be used by the dairy industry for manufacturing new products with improved health benefits.
Collapse
|
14
|
Wu Y, Hu C, Dai Y, Huang W, Li H, Lan Y. Soft Array Surface-Changing Compound Eye. Sensors (Basel) 2021; 21:s21248298. [PMID: 34960392 DOI: 10.3390/s21248298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2021] [Revised: 11/29/2021] [Accepted: 12/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The field-of-view (FOV) of compound eyes is an important index for performance evaluation. Most artificial compound eyes are optical, fabricated by imitating insect compound eyes with a fixed FOV that is difficult to adjust over a wide range. The compound eye is of great significance in the field of tracking high-speed moving objects. However, the tracking ability of a compound eye is often limited by its own FOV size and the reaction speed of the rudder unit matched with the compound eye, so that the compound eye cannot better adapt to tracking high-speed moving objects. Inspired by the eyes of many organisms, we propose a soft-array, surface-changing compound eye (SASCE). Taking soft aerodynamic models (SAM) as the carrier and an infrared sensor as the load, the basic model of the variable structure infrared compound eye (VSICE) is established using an array of infrared sensors on the carrier. The VSICE model is driven by air pressure to change the array surface of the infrared sensor. Then, the spatial position of each sensor and its viewing area are changed and, finally, the FOV of the compound eye is changed. Simultaneously, to validate the theory, we measured the air pressure, spatial sensor position, and the FOV of the compound eye. When compared with the current compound eye, the proposed one has a wider adjustable FOV.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yu Wu
- Laboratory Center, Guangzhou University, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Chuanshuai Hu
- School of Mechanical & Electrical Engineering, Guangzhou University, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Yingming Dai
- School of Mechanical & Electrical Engineering, Guangzhou University, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Wenkai Huang
- School of Mechanical & Electrical Engineering, Guangzhou University, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Hongquan Li
- School of Mechanical & Electrical Engineering, Guangzhou University, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Yuming Lan
- School of Mechanical & Electrical Engineering, Guangzhou University, Guangzhou 510006, China
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Bandyopadhyay R, Horbach J. Soft matter research in India. J Phys Condens Matter 2021; 34:090402. [PMID: 34889781 DOI: 10.1088/1361-648x/ac3d53] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2021] [Accepted: 11/25/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Research on soft matter and biological physics has grown tremendously in India over the past decades. In this editorial, we summarize the twenty-three research papers that were contributed to the special issue on Soft matter research in India. The papers in this issue highlight recent exciting advances in this rapidly expanding research area and include theoretical studies and numerical simulations of soft and biological systems, the synthesis and characterization of novel, functional soft materials and experimental investigations of their complex flow behaviours.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Jürgen Horbach
- Institut für Theoretische Physik II, Heinrich-Heine-Universität Düsseldorf, Universitätsstraße 1, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Chatzichristos C, Kofidis E, Van Paesschen W, De Lathauwer L, Theodoridis S, Van Huffel S. Early soft and flexible fusion of electroencephalography and functional magnetic resonance imaging via double coupled matrix tensor factorization for multisubject group analysis. Hum Brain Mapp 2021; 43:1231-1255. [PMID: 34806255 PMCID: PMC8837580 DOI: 10.1002/hbm.25717] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2021] [Revised: 09/29/2021] [Accepted: 10/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Data fusion refers to the joint analysis of multiple datasets that provide different (e.g., complementary) views of the same task. In general, it can extract more information than separate analyses can. Jointly analyzing electroencephalography (EEG) and functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) measurements has been proved to be highly beneficial to the study of the brain function, mainly because these neuroimaging modalities have complementary spatiotemporal resolution: EEG offers good temporal resolution while fMRI is better in its spatial resolution. The EEG–fMRI fusion methods that have been reported so far ignore the underlying multiway nature of the data in at least one of the modalities and/or rely on very strong assumptions concerning the relation of the respective datasets. For example, in multisubject analysis, it is commonly assumed that the hemodynamic response function is a priori known for all subjects and/or the coupling across corresponding modes is assumed to be exact (hard). In this article, these two limitations are overcome by adopting tensor models for both modalities and by following soft and flexible coupling approaches to implement the multimodal fusion. The obtained results are compared against those of parallel independent component analysis and hard coupling alternatives, with both synthetic and real data (epilepsy and visual oddball paradigm). Our results demonstrate the clear advantage of using soft and flexible coupled tensor decompositions in scenarios that do not conform with the hard coupling assumption.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christos Chatzichristos
- Department of Electrical Engineering (ESAT), STADIUS Center for Dynamical Systems, Signal Processing and Data Analytics, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Eleftherios Kofidis
- Department of Statistics and Insurance Science, University of Piraeus, Piraeus, Greece.,Computer Technology Institute and Press "Diophantus" (CTI), Patras, Greece
| | | | - Lieven De Lathauwer
- Department of Electrical Engineering (ESAT), STADIUS Center for Dynamical Systems, Signal Processing and Data Analytics, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.,Engineering, Science and Technology, KU Leuven Kulak, Kortrijk, Belgium
| | - Sergios Theodoridis
- Department of Informatics and Telecommunications, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece.,Department of Electronic Systems, University of Aalborg, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Sabine Van Huffel
- Department of Electrical Engineering (ESAT), STADIUS Center for Dynamical Systems, Signal Processing and Data Analytics, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Abstract
Yeasts constitute an important part of cheeses, and especially the artisanal ones. The current study reviews the occurrence of yeasts in different cheese varieties and the role of yeasts in cheesemaking process. The use of molecular methods for identification and strain typing has extended the knowledge for yeast diversity in cheeses. For the study of the occurrence of yeasts in different cheese types, seven categories are used, that is: 1) hard, 2) semi-hard, 3) soft, which includes soft pasta-filata and whey cheeses, 4) white brined cheeses, 5) mould surface ripened, 6) bacterial surface ripened cheeses, and 7) blue cheeses. For some cheese types, yeasts are the main microbial group, at least for some part of their ripening process, while for some other types, yeasts are absent. Differences between industrially manufactured cheeses and artisanal cheeses have specified. Artisanal cheeses possess a diverse assortment of yeast species, mainly belonging to the genera Candida, Clavisporalus, Cryptococcus, Debaryomyces, Geotrichum, Issatchenkia, Kazachstania, Kluyveromyces, Kodemaea, Pichia, Rhodotorula, Saccharomyces, Saturnispora, Torulaspora, Trichosporon, Yarrowia and ZygoSaccharomyces. The role of the yeasts for selected cheeses from the seven cheese categories is discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Bintsis
- Collaborating Teaching Staff at Hellenic Open University, Greece
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Pospelova IV, Bragin DS, Cherepanova IV, Serebryakova VN, Sokolov AA, Kaveshnikov VS. Development of Mobile Application for Assessment of Basic Echocardiographic Parameters in Apparently Healthy Population. Telemed J E Health 2021; 28:815-822. [PMID: 34699269 DOI: 10.1089/tmj.2021.0302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Development of tools, making for easier assessment of the age- and body size-specific echocardiographic parameters in the general population, becomes increasingly important. Materials and Methods: The application was developed on the basis of the previously designed model of normal values for basic echocardiographic parameters. The source population for the normal values was 10,604 apparently healthy people aged from 1 day to 65 years old, in which optimal visualization of the heart in the parasternal and apical echocardiographic views could be obtained. The whole population surveyed was categorized into three age groups. The predicted parameters were calculated by the group-specific regression equations. Deviation from the norm for one or another echocardiographic parameter was determined based on the value of z-score. Results: The mobile application was designed for the medical community and allows for a selective assessment of basic echocardiographic parameters in apparently healthy people with high accuracy. The application has a friendly graphical interface and provides color output on display of the results obtained. Discussion: The value of this application is in its uniqueness, since having analyzed available scientific works on mobile applications in medicine we could hardly find similar developments. Conclusions: Using the mobile application can save a doctor's time by simplifying the process of entering initial data, automating calculations, and providing convenient displaying of results. From this perspective, the application developed can become a useful tool in the sphere of telemedicine, in particular-the mobile medicine for remote consultation of patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Irina V Pospelova
- Laboratory of Registries of Cardiovascular Diseases, High-Tech Interventions and Telemedicine, Cardiology Research Institute, Tomsk National Research Medical Center, Russian Academy of Sciences, Tomsk, Russia
| | - Dmitry S Bragin
- Laboratory of Registries of Cardiovascular Diseases, High-Tech Interventions and Telemedicine, Cardiology Research Institute, Tomsk National Research Medical Center, Russian Academy of Sciences, Tomsk, Russia
| | - Irina V Cherepanova
- Laboratory of Registries of Cardiovascular Diseases, High-Tech Interventions and Telemedicine, Cardiology Research Institute, Tomsk National Research Medical Center, Russian Academy of Sciences, Tomsk, Russia
| | - Victoriya N Serebryakova
- Laboratory of Registries of Cardiovascular Diseases, High-Tech Interventions and Telemedicine, Cardiology Research Institute, Tomsk National Research Medical Center, Russian Academy of Sciences, Tomsk, Russia
| | - Alexander A Sokolov
- Laboratory of Registries of Cardiovascular Diseases, High-Tech Interventions and Telemedicine, Cardiology Research Institute, Tomsk National Research Medical Center, Russian Academy of Sciences, Tomsk, Russia
| | - Vladimir S Kaveshnikov
- Laboratory of Registries of Cardiovascular Diseases, High-Tech Interventions and Telemedicine, Cardiology Research Institute, Tomsk National Research Medical Center, Russian Academy of Sciences, Tomsk, Russia
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Yin C, Wei F, Fu S, Zhai Z, Ge Z, Yao L, Jiang M, Liu M. Visible Light-Driven Jellyfish-like Miniature Swimming Soft Robot. ACS Appl Mater Interfaces 2021; 13:47147-47154. [PMID: 34436851 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.1c13975] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Soft actuators that exhibit large deformation and can move at a fast speed in response to external stimuli have been in high demand for biomimetic applications. In this paper, we propose a convenient approach to fabricate a reversible and thermal-responsive composite hydrogel. Under the irradiation of visible light, the striped hydrogel can bend at a speed of up to 65.72°/s with carbon nanotubes loaded at a concentration of 3 mg/mL. A jellyfish-like miniature soft robot is made using this hydrogel. When driven by visible light, the robot can move at a maximum speed of 3.37 mm/s. Besides swimming, other motion modes, including walking and jumping, are also achieved by the robot. In addition, the robot can perform directional transportation of tiny objects. As a new actuation approach for the research of jellyfish-like miniature soft robots, this work is of great significance to the development of flexible bionic robots. Moreover, this work also offers some important insights into the research of biomimetic robots driven by visible light.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chao Yin
- School of Mechanical Engineering and Automation, Fuzhou University, Minhou County, Fuzhou, Fujian 350108, China
| | - Fanan Wei
- School of Mechanical Engineering and Automation, Fuzhou University, Minhou County, Fuzhou, Fujian 350108, China
| | - Shihan Fu
- School of Mechanical Engineering and Automation, Fuzhou University, Minhou County, Fuzhou, Fujian 350108, China
| | - Zhushan Zhai
- School of Mechanical Engineering and Automation, Fuzhou University, Minhou County, Fuzhou, Fujian 350108, China
| | - Zhixing Ge
- Shenyang Institute of Automation, Chinese Academy of Sciences, No. 114, Nanta Street, Shenyang, Liaoning 110016, China
| | - Ligang Yao
- School of Mechanical Engineering and Automation, Fuzhou University, Minhou County, Fuzhou, Fujian 350108, China
| | - Minlin Jiang
- Institute for Advanced Study, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330031, China
| | - Ming Liu
- School of Mechanical Engineering and Automation, Fuzhou University, Minhou County, Fuzhou, Fujian 350108, China
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Song Z, Fu Z, Romano D, Dario P, Dai JS. A Novel Biomimetic Compliant Structural Skin Based on Composite Materials for Biorobotics Applications. Soft Robot 2021; 9:440-450. [PMID: 34375149 DOI: 10.1089/soro.2020.0138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Biorobotics is increasingly attracting engineers worldwide, due to the high impact this field can have on the society. Biorobotics aims at imitating or taking inspiration from mechanisms and strategies evolved by animals, including their locomotion abilities in real scenarios, such as swimming, running, crawling, and flying. However, the development of skin-mimicking structures, allowing protection without hindering artifacts' movements, has been rarely addressed. Skin-mimicking structures play a key role for biomimetic robots that have to move in unstructured environments. Currently most of the skin used for robots in engineering adopts soft materials or bellow structures to enable both structural deformation and protection. However, the elastic nature of the former can produce support failure and increasing strain with deformation, while the humpy surface of the latter reduces the interactive performance with the environment. Herein, we designed a novel compliant structure for biorobots' skin, fabricated through a special configuration of both soft and rigid materials to reproduce attributes provided by natural epithelial structures. The presented skin has a simple fabrication process, as well as it is cost effective. The structure of this skin includes a thin conical shape where rigid iron rings are wrapped by soft polyester fabrics, allowing a theoretically zero elastic modulus when bended and stretched. The dimension of fabrics was specified to allow rigid rings having a certain range of free rotation and translation. The possibility of free bending and stretching of the structure was implemented by overcoming low sliding friction of adjacent rings. To empirically test the effectiveness of the proposed structure, a model, including 20 segments, was also fabricated. Experimental results from the bending tests, both in aerial and underwater environments, as well as from the folding tests, demonstrated the successful performance of the skin prototype in terms of low resistance and energy consumption. Finally, the proposed highly compliant structural skin was mounted and tested on a fish robot previously developed by authors, to further show its effectiveness.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhibin Song
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Key Laboratory of Mechanism Theory and Equipment Design of the Ministry of Education, Centre for Advanced Mechanisms and Robotics, Tianjin University, Tianjin, China.,Department of Mechanical Engineering, Tianjin University, Tianjin, China
| | - Zhongru Fu
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Tianjin University, Tianjin, China
| | - Donato Romano
- The BioRobotics Institute, Scuola Superiore Sant'Anna, Pisa, Italy.,Department of Excellence in Robotics and AI, Scuola Superiore Sant'Anna, Pisa, Italy
| | - Paolo Dario
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Tianjin University, Tianjin, China.,The BioRobotics Institute, Scuola Superiore Sant'Anna, Pisa, Italy.,Department of Excellence in Robotics and AI, Scuola Superiore Sant'Anna, Pisa, Italy
| | - Jian S Dai
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Key Laboratory of Mechanism Theory and Equipment Design of the Ministry of Education, Centre for Advanced Mechanisms and Robotics, Tianjin University, Tianjin, China.,Department of Engineering, Centre for Robotics Research, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Kellaris N, Rothemund P, Zeng Y, Mitchell SK, Smith GM, Jayaram K, Keplinger C. Spider-Inspired Electrohydraulic Actuators for Fast, Soft-Actuated Joints. Adv Sci (Weinh) 2021; 8:e2100916. [PMID: 34050720 PMCID: PMC8292915 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202100916] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2021] [Revised: 04/05/2021] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
The impressive locomotion and manipulation capabilities of spiders have led to a host of bioinspired robotic designs aiming to reproduce their functionalities; however, current actuation mechanisms are deficient in either speed, force output, displacement, or efficiency. Here-using inspiration from the hydraulic mechanism used in spider legs-soft-actuated joints are developed that use electrostatic forces to locally pressurize a hydraulic fluid, and cause flexion of a segmented structure. The result is a lightweight, low-profile articulating mechanism capable of fast operation, high forces, and large displacement; these devices are termed spider-inspired electrohydraulic soft-actuated (SES) joints. SES joints with rotation angles up to 70°, blocked torques up to 70 mN m, and specific torques up to 21 N m kg-1 are demonstrated. SES joints demonstrate high speed operation, with measured roll-off frequencies up to 24 Hz and specific power as high as 230 W kg-1 -similar to human muscle. The versatility of these devices is illustrated by combining SES joints to create a bidirectional joint, an artificial limb with independently addressable joints, and a compliant gripper. The lightweight, low-profile design, and high performance of these devices, makes them well-suited toward the development of articulating robotic systems that can rapidly maneuver.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas Kellaris
- Paul M. Rady Department of Mechanical EngineeringUniversity of ColoradoBoulderCO80309USA
- Materials Science and Engineering ProgramUniversity of ColoradoBoulderCO80303USA
| | - Philipp Rothemund
- Paul M. Rady Department of Mechanical EngineeringUniversity of ColoradoBoulderCO80309USA
- Robotic Materials DepartmentMax Planck Institute for Intelligent SystemsStuttgart70569Germany
| | - Yi Zeng
- Paul M. Rady Department of Mechanical EngineeringUniversity of ColoradoBoulderCO80309USA
| | - Shane K. Mitchell
- Paul M. Rady Department of Mechanical EngineeringUniversity of ColoradoBoulderCO80309USA
| | - Garrett M. Smith
- Paul M. Rady Department of Mechanical EngineeringUniversity of ColoradoBoulderCO80309USA
| | - Kaushik Jayaram
- Paul M. Rady Department of Mechanical EngineeringUniversity of ColoradoBoulderCO80309USA
| | - Christoph Keplinger
- Paul M. Rady Department of Mechanical EngineeringUniversity of ColoradoBoulderCO80309USA
- Materials Science and Engineering ProgramUniversity of ColoradoBoulderCO80303USA
- Robotic Materials DepartmentMax Planck Institute for Intelligent SystemsStuttgart70569Germany
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Abstract
Optical lenses with electrically controllable focal length are of growing interest, in order to reduce the complexity, size, weight, response time and power consumption of conventional focusing/zooming systems, based on glass lenses displaced by motors. They might become especially relevant for diverse robotic and machine vision-based devices, including cameras not only for portable consumer electronics (e.g. smart phones) and advanced optical instrumentation (e.g. microscopes, endoscopes, etc.), but also for emerging applications like small/micro-payload drones and wearable virtual/augmented-reality systems. This paper reviews the most widely studied strategies to obtain such varifocal “smart lenses”, which can electrically be tuned, either directly or via electro-mechanical or electro-thermal coupling. Only technologies that ensure controllable focusing of multi-chromatic light, with spatial continuity (i.e. continuous tunability) in wavefronts and focal lengths, as required for visible-range imaging, are considered. Both encapsulated fluid-based lenses and fully elastomeric lenses are reviewed, ranging from proof-of-concept prototypes to commercially available products. They are classified according to the focus-changing principles of operation, and they are described and compared in terms of advantages and drawbacks. This systematic overview should help to stimulate further developments in the field.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Leihao Chen
- School of Engineering and Materials Science, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom.,Department of Industrial Engineering, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Michele Ghilardi
- School of Engineering and Materials Science, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - James J C Busfield
- School of Engineering and Materials Science, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Federico Carpi
- Department of Industrial Engineering, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Wu C, Liu X, Ying Y. Soft and Stretchable Optical Waveguide: Light Delivery and Manipulation at Complex Biointerfaces Creating Unique Windows for On-Body Sensing. ACS Sens 2021; 6:1446-1460. [PMID: 33611914 DOI: 10.1021/acssensors.0c02566] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Over the past few decades, optical waveguides have been increasingly used in wearable/implantable devices for on-body sensing. However, conventional optical waveguides are stiff, rigid, and brittle. A mismatch between conventional optical waveguides and complex biointerfaces makes wearable/implantable devices uncomfortable to wear and potentially unsafe. Soft and stretchable polymer optical waveguides not only inherit many advantages of conventional optical waveguides (e.g., immunity to electromagnetic interference and without electrical hazards) but also provide a new perspective for solving the mismatch between conventional optical waveguides and complex biointerfaces, which is essential for the development of light-based wearable/implantable sensors. In this review, polymer optical waveguides' unique properties, including flexibility, biocompatibility and biodegradability, porosity, and stimulus responsiveness, and their applications in the wearable/implantable field in recent years are summarized. Then, we briefly discuss the current challenges of high optical loss, unstable signal transmission, low manufacturing efficiency, and difficulty in deployment during implantation of flexible polymer optical waveguides, and propose some possible solutions to these problems.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chenjian Wu
- College of Biosystems Engineering and Food Science, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Xiangjiang Liu
- College of Biosystems Engineering and Food Science, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
- College of Mechanical and Electrical Engineering, Xinjiang Agricultural University, Urumqi, 830052, China
| | - Yibin Ying
- College of Biosystems Engineering and Food Science, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Konishi S, Mori F, Shimizu A, Hirata A. Structural Reinforcement Effect of a Flexible Strain Sensor Integrated with Pneumatic Balloon Actuators for Soft Microrobot Fingers. Micromachines (Basel) 2021; 12:395. [PMID: 33918399 DOI: 10.3390/mi12040395] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2021] [Revised: 03/31/2021] [Accepted: 03/31/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Motion capture of a robot and tactile sensing for a robot require sensors. Strain sensors are used to detect bending deformation of the robot finger and to sense the force from an object. It is important to introduce sensors in effective combination with actuators without affecting the original performance of the robot. We are interested in the improvement of flexible strain sensors integrated into soft microrobot fingers using a pneumatic balloon actuator (PBA). A strain sensor using a microchannel filled with liquid metal was developed for soft PBAs by considering the compatibility of sensors and actuators. Inflatable deformation generated by PBAs, however, was found to affect sensor characteristics. This paper presents structural reinforcement of a liquid metal-based sensor to solve this problem. Parylene C film was deposited into a microchannel to reinforce its structure against the inflatable deformation caused by a PBA. Parylene C deposition into a microchannel suppressed the interference of inflatable deformation. The proposed method enables the effective combination of soft PBAs and a flexible liquid metal strain sensor for use in microrobot fingers.
Collapse
|
25
|
Kim H, Yuk SA, Dieterly AM, Kwon S, Park J, Meng F, Gadalla HH, Cadena MJ, Lyle LT, Yeo Y. Nanosac, a Noncationic and Soft Polyphenol Nanocapsule, Enables Systemic Delivery of siRNA to Solid Tumors. ACS Nano 2021; 15:4576-4593. [PMID: 33645963 PMCID: PMC8023695 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.0c08694] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/14/2023]
Abstract
For systemic delivery of small interfering RNA (siRNA) to solid tumors, the carrier must circulate avoiding premature degradation, extravasate and penetrate tumors, enter target cells, traffic to the intracellular destination, and release siRNA for gene silencing. However, existing siRNA carriers, which typically exhibit positive charges, fall short of these requirements by a large margin; thus, systemic delivery of siRNA to tumors remains a significant challenge. To overcome the limitations of existing approaches, we have developed a carrier of siRNA, called "Nanosac", a noncationic soft polyphenol nanocapsule. A siRNA-loaded Nanosac is produced by sequential coating of mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs) with siRNA and polydopamine, followed by removal of the sacrificial MSN core. The Nanosac recruits serum albumin, co-opts caveolae-mediated endocytosis to enter tumor cells, and efficiently silences target genes. The softness of Nanosac improves extravasation and penetration into tumors compared to its hard counterpart. As a carrier of siRNA targeting PD-L1, Nanosac induces a significant attenuation of CT26 tumor growth by immune checkpoint blockade. These results support the utility of Nanosac in the systemic delivery of siRNA for solid tumor therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hyungjun Kim
- Department of Industrial and Physical Pharmacy, Purdue University, 575 Stadium Mall Drive, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA
| | - Simseok A. Yuk
- Department of Industrial and Physical Pharmacy, Purdue University, 575 Stadium Mall Drive, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA
| | - Alexandra M. Dieterly
- Department of Comparative Pathobiology, Purdue University, 625 Harrison Street, West Lafayette, IN, 47907, USA
| | - Soonbum Kwon
- Department of Industrial and Physical Pharmacy, Purdue University, 575 Stadium Mall Drive, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA
| | - Jinho Park
- Department of Industrial and Physical Pharmacy, Purdue University, 575 Stadium Mall Drive, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA
| | - Fanfei Meng
- Department of Industrial and Physical Pharmacy, Purdue University, 575 Stadium Mall Drive, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA
| | - Hytham H. Gadalla
- Department of Industrial and Physical Pharmacy, Purdue University, 575 Stadium Mall Drive, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA
| | - Maria Jose Cadena
- School of Mechanical Engineering, College of Engineering, Purdue University, 585 Purdue Mall, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA
| | - L. Tiffany Lyle
- Department of Comparative Pathobiology, Purdue University, 625 Harrison Street, West Lafayette, IN, 47907, USA
| | - Yoon Yeo
- Department of Industrial and Physical Pharmacy, Purdue University, 575 Stadium Mall Drive, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA
- Weldon School of Biomedical Engineering, Purdue University, 206 S Martin Jischke Dr., West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA
- Corresponding author: Yoon Yeo, Ph.D., Phone: 1.765.496.9608, Fax: 1.765.494.6545,
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Focke A, Steingrebe H, Möhler F, Ringhof S, Sell S, Potthast W, Stein T. Effect of Different Knee Braces in ACL-Deficient Patients. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2020; 8:964. [PMID: 32984272 PMCID: PMC7479127 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2020.00964] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2019] [Accepted: 07/24/2020] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Knee braces are often used during rehabilitation after ACL injury. There are two main concepts, rigid and soft braces, but studies comparing the two show conflicting results. Most studies used movement tasks with low translational or rotational loads and did not provide joint kinematics. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to investigate the influence of two different knee braces (rigid vs. soft) on knee joint kinematics in ACL-deficient patients compared to an unbraced control condition using two tasks (walking and 180° cutting) provoking knee movements in the frontal and transverse planes. 17 subjects with ACL-deficient knees participated in this study. 3D knee joint kinematics were recorded. To provoke frontal plane knee joint motion a laterally tilting plate was applied during a walking task. Both braces reduced the maximum valgus angle compared to the unbraced condition, stabilizing the knee joint against excessive valgus motion. Yet, no differences in peak abduction angle between the two braces were found. However, a significant extension deficit was observed with the rigid brace. Moreover, both braces increased transverse plane RoM and peak internal rotation angle, with the effects being significantly larger with the rigid brace. These effects have been associated with decreased knee stability and unphysiological cartilage loading. Therefore, the soft brace seems to be able to limit peak abduction with a lesser impact on physiological gait compared to the rigid brace. The cutting task was selected to provoke transverse plane knee movement and large external knee rotation was expected. However, none of the braces was able to reduce peak external knee rotation. Again, an increase in transverse plane RoM was observed with both braces. Based on these results, no brace outmatched the other in the second task. This study was the first attempt to clarify the effect of brace design for the stabilization of the knee joint during movements with frontal and transverse plane loading. However, to provide physicians and patients with a comprehensive guideline for brace usage, future studies will have to extent these findings to other daily or sportive movement tasks.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anne Focke
- BioMotion Center, Institute of Sports and Sports Science, Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT), Karlsruhe, Germany
| | - Hannah Steingrebe
- BioMotion Center, Institute of Sports and Sports Science, Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT), Karlsruhe, Germany.,Sports Orthopedics, Institute of Sports and Sports Science, Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT), Karlsruhe, Germany
| | - Felix Möhler
- BioMotion Center, Institute of Sports and Sports Science, Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT), Karlsruhe, Germany
| | - Steffen Ringhof
- BioMotion Center, Institute of Sports and Sports Science, Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT), Karlsruhe, Germany.,Department of Sport and Sport Science, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Stefan Sell
- Sports Orthopedics, Institute of Sports and Sports Science, Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT), Karlsruhe, Germany.,Joint Center Black Forest, Neuenbürg, Germany
| | - Wolfgang Potthast
- Institute of Biomechanics and Orthopaedics, German Sport University Cologne, Cologne, Germany.,ARCUS Clinics Pforzheim, Pforzheim, Germany
| | - Thorsten Stein
- BioMotion Center, Institute of Sports and Sports Science, Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT), Karlsruhe, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Lee H, Kim SH, Park HS. A Fully Soft and Passive Assistive Device to Lower the Metabolic Cost of Sit-to-Stand. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2020; 8:966. [PMID: 32923435 PMCID: PMC7456876 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2020.00966] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2020] [Accepted: 07/27/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Various assistive devices like exoskeletons have been developed to aid the growing number of disabled people. Recent studies have started to explore using soft rather than rigid components to create lightweight and unobtrusive systems that can be more easily adopted by the general population. However, there is a tradeoff between compliance and power in these systems. We investigated the physiological benefits of using an inconspicuous, soft and passive assistive device which would avoid bulkiness, heaviness and user discomfort. We chose to assist the sit-to-stand (STS) maneuver because it is a common activity of daily living (ADL). STS is also recognized as one of the most challenging ADLs due to the high knee torque required, and the primary limiting factor is known to be knee extensor strength. Thus, the objective of this research was to develop and evaluate an unobtrusive knee assist wear called X-tights that could aid knee extension during STS using only soft and passive components. This was accomplished by routing elastic bands across the lower extremity. Thirty-one healthy participants performed STS tests with and without the X-tights, while metabolic cost and muscle activity were recorded. Metabolic power significantly decreased, by 3.2 ± 1.5% (P = 0.04), when utilizing the X-tights during the STS, while there was no statistically significant differences in muscle activity. The present work introduces a new soft and passive assist wear that can be worn inconspicuously under normal clothing, and we demonstrate promising results for the future development and integration of soft assistive technology for daily life.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hangil Lee
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), Daejeon, South Korea
| | - Seok Hee Kim
- Exercise Physiology, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), Daejeon, South Korea
| | - Hyung-Soon Park
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), Daejeon, South Korea
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Abstract
The ability to navigate complex unstructured environments and carry out inspection tasks requires robots to be capable of climbing inclined surfaces and to be equipped with a sensor payload. These features are desirable for robots that are used to inspect and monitor offshore energy platforms. Existing climbing robots mostly use rigid actuators, and robots that use soft actuators are not fully untethered yet. Another major problem with current climbing robots is that they are not built in a modular fashion, which makes it harder to adapt the system to new tasks, to repair the system, and to replace and reconfigure modules. This work presents a 450 g and a 250 × 250 × 140 mm modular, untethered hybrid hard/soft robot—Limpet II. The Limpet II uses a hybrid electromagnetic module as its core module to allow adhesion and locomotion capabilities. The adhesion capability is based on negative pressure adhesion utilizing suction cups. The locomotion capability is based on slip-stick locomotion. The Limpet II also has a sensor payload with nine different sensing modalities, which can be used to inspect and monitor offshore structures and the conditions surrounding them. Since the Limpet II is designed as a modular system, the modules can be reconfigured to achieve multiple tasks. To demonstrate its potential for inspection of offshore platforms, we show that the Limpet II is capable of responding to different sensory inputs, repositioning itself within its environment, adhering to structures made of different materials, and climbing inclined surfaces.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mohammed E Sayed
- Institute for Integrated Micro and Nano Systems, Scottish Microelectronics Centre, School of Engineering, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Jamie O Roberts
- Institute for Integrated Micro and Nano Systems, Scottish Microelectronics Centre, School of Engineering, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom.,Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) Centre for Doctoral Training (CDT) in Robotics and Autonomous Systems, School of Informatics, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Ross M McKenzie
- Institute for Integrated Micro and Nano Systems, Scottish Microelectronics Centre, School of Engineering, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom.,Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) Centre for Doctoral Training (CDT) in Robotics and Autonomous Systems, School of Informatics, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Simona Aracri
- Institute for Integrated Micro and Nano Systems, Scottish Microelectronics Centre, School of Engineering, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Anthony Buchoux
- Institute for Integrated Micro and Nano Systems, Scottish Microelectronics Centre, School of Engineering, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Adam A Stokes
- Institute for Integrated Micro and Nano Systems, Scottish Microelectronics Centre, School of Engineering, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Wolterink G, Dias P, Sanders RGP, Muijzer F, van Beijnum BJ, Veltink P, Krijnen G. Development of Soft sEMG Sensing Structures Using 3D-Printing Technologies. Sensors (Basel) 2020; 20:E4292. [PMID: 32752062 PMCID: PMC7435423 DOI: 10.3390/s20154292] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2020] [Revised: 07/27/2020] [Accepted: 07/29/2020] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
3D printing of soft EMG sensing structures enables the creation of personalized sensing structures that can be potentially integrated in prosthetic, assistive and other devices. We developed and characterized flexible carbon-black doped TPU-based sEMG sensing structures. The structures are directly 3D-printed without the need for an additional post-processing step using a low-cost, consumer grade multi-material FDM printer. A comparison between the gold standard Ag/AgCl gel electrodes and the 3D-printed EMG electrodes with a comparable contact area shows that there is no significant difference in the EMG signals' amplitude. The sensors are capable of distinguishing a variable level of muscle activity of the biceps brachii. Furthermore, as a proof of principle, sEMG data of a 3D-printed 8-electrode band are analyzed using a patten recognition algorithm to recognize hand gestures. This work shows that 3D-printed sEMG electrodes have great potential in practical applications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gerjan Wolterink
- Robotics and Mechatronics Group (RAM), University of Twente, 7500 AE Enschede, The Netherlands; (P.D.); (R.G.P.S.); (G.K.)
- Biomedical Signals and Systems (BSS), University of Twente, 7500 AE Enschede, The Netherlands; (B.-J.v.B.); (P.V.)
| | - Pedro Dias
- Robotics and Mechatronics Group (RAM), University of Twente, 7500 AE Enschede, The Netherlands; (P.D.); (R.G.P.S.); (G.K.)
| | - Remco G. P. Sanders
- Robotics and Mechatronics Group (RAM), University of Twente, 7500 AE Enschede, The Netherlands; (P.D.); (R.G.P.S.); (G.K.)
| | - Frodo Muijzer
- Twente Medical Systems International B.V. (TMSi), 7575 EJ Oldenzaal, The Netherlands;
| | - Bert-Jan van Beijnum
- Biomedical Signals and Systems (BSS), University of Twente, 7500 AE Enschede, The Netherlands; (B.-J.v.B.); (P.V.)
| | - Peter Veltink
- Biomedical Signals and Systems (BSS), University of Twente, 7500 AE Enschede, The Netherlands; (B.-J.v.B.); (P.V.)
| | - Gijs Krijnen
- Robotics and Mechatronics Group (RAM), University of Twente, 7500 AE Enschede, The Netherlands; (P.D.); (R.G.P.S.); (G.K.)
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Caraffi SG, Maini I, Ivanovski I, Pollazzon M, Giangiobbe S, Valli M, Rossi A, Sassi S, Faccioli S, Rocco MD, Magnani C, Campos-Xavier B, Unger S, Superti-Furga A, Garavelli L. Severe Peripheral Joint Laxity is a Distinctive Clinical Feature of Spondylodysplastic-Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS)- B4GALT7 and Spondylodysplastic-EDS- B3GALT6. Genes (Basel) 2019; 10:genes10100799. [PMID: 31614862 PMCID: PMC6826576 DOI: 10.3390/genes10100799] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2019] [Revised: 09/25/2019] [Accepted: 10/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Variations in genes encoding for the enzymes responsible for synthesizing the linker region of proteoglycans may result in recessive conditions known as "linkeropathies". The two phenotypes related to mutations in genes B4GALT7 and B3GALT6 (encoding for galactosyltransferase I and II respectively) are similar, characterized by short stature, hypotonia, joint hypermobility, skeletal features and a suggestive face with prominent forehead, thin soft tissue and prominent eyes. The most outstanding feature of these disorders is the combination of severe connective tissue involvement, often manifesting in newborns and infants, and skeletal dysplasia that becomes apparent during childhood. Here, we intend to more accurately define some of the clinical features of B4GALT7 and B3GALT6-related conditions and underline the extreme hypermobility of distal joints and the soft, doughy skin on the hands and feet as features that may be useful as the first clues for a correct diagnosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stefano Giuseppe Caraffi
- Medical Genetics Unit, Maternal and Child Health Department, Azienda USL-IRCCS of Reggio Emilia, 42122 Reggio Emilia, Italy.
| | - Ilenia Maini
- Medical Genetics Unit, Maternal and Child Health Department, Azienda USL-IRCCS of Reggio Emilia, 42122 Reggio Emilia, Italy.
- Child Neuropsychiatry Unit, Azienda USL of Parma, 43125 Parma, Italy.
| | - Ivan Ivanovski
- Medical Genetics Unit, Maternal and Child Health Department, Azienda USL-IRCCS of Reggio Emilia, 42122 Reggio Emilia, Italy.
- Department of Surgical, Medical, Dental and Morphological Sciences with interest in Transplant, Oncology and Regenerative Medicine, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 42121 Reggio Emilia, Italy.
| | - Marzia Pollazzon
- Medical Genetics Unit, Maternal and Child Health Department, Azienda USL-IRCCS of Reggio Emilia, 42122 Reggio Emilia, Italy.
| | - Sara Giangiobbe
- Medical Genetics Unit, Maternal and Child Health Department, Azienda USL-IRCCS of Reggio Emilia, 42122 Reggio Emilia, Italy.
| | - Maurizia Valli
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Unit of Biochemistry, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy.
| | - Antonio Rossi
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Unit of Biochemistry, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy.
| | - Silvia Sassi
- Rehabilitation Pediatric Unit, Azienda USL-IRCCS of Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, 42122 Reggio Emilia, Italy.
| | - Silvia Faccioli
- Rehabilitation Pediatric Unit, Azienda USL-IRCCS of Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, 42122 Reggio Emilia, Italy.
| | - Maja Di Rocco
- Department of Pediatrics, Unit of Rare Diseases, IRCCS Istituto Giannina Gaslini, 16147 Genoa, Italy.
| | - Cinzia Magnani
- Neonatology and Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Maternal and Child Department, University of Parma, 43121 Parma, Italy.
| | - Belinda Campos-Xavier
- Division of Genetic Medicine, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois (CHUV), University of Lausanne, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland.
| | - Sheila Unger
- Division of Genetic Medicine, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois (CHUV), University of Lausanne, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland.
| | - Andrea Superti-Furga
- Division of Genetic Medicine, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois (CHUV), University of Lausanne, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland.
| | - Livia Garavelli
- Medical Genetics Unit, Maternal and Child Health Department, Azienda USL-IRCCS of Reggio Emilia, 42122 Reggio Emilia, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Hsu YT, Tai CT, Wu HM, Hou CF, Liao YM, Liao WC, Haider G, Hsiao YC, Lee CW, Chang SW, Chen YH, Wu MH, Chou RJ, Bera KP, Lin YY, Chen YZ, Kataria M, Lin SY, Paul Inbaraj CR, Lin WJ, Lee WY, Lin TY, Lai YC, Chen YF. Self-Healing Nanophotonics: Robust and Soft Random Lasers. ACS Nano 2019; 13:8977-8985. [PMID: 31390182 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.9b02858] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Self-healing technology promises a generation of innovation in cross-cutting subjects ranging from electronic skins, to wearable electronics, to point-of-care biomedical sensing modules. Recently, scientists have successfully pulled off significant advances in self-healing components including sensors, energy devices, transistors, and even integrated circuits. Lasers, one of the most important light sources, integrated with autonomous self-healability should be endowed with more functionalities and opportunities; however, the study of self-healing lasers is absent in all published reports. Here, the soft and self-healable random laser (SSRL) is presented. The SSRL can not only endure extreme external strain but also withstand several cutting/healing test cycles. Particularly, the damaged SSRL enables its functionality to be restored within just few minutes without the need of additional energy, chemical/electrical agents, or other healing stimuli, truly exhibiting a supple yet robust laser prototype. It is believed that SSRL can serve as a vital building block for next-generation laser technology as well as follow-on self-healing optoelectronics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yun-Tzu Hsu
- Department of Physics , National Taiwan University , Taipei 10617 , Taiwan
| | - Chia-Tse Tai
- Department of Physics , National Taiwan University , Taipei 10617 , Taiwan
| | - Hsing-Mei Wu
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering , National Chung Hsing University , Taichung 40227 , Taiwan
| | - Cheng-Fu Hou
- Institute of Optoelectronic Sciences , National Taiwan Ocean University , Keelung 202 , Taiwan
| | - Yu-Ming Liao
- Department of Physics , National Taiwan University , Taipei 10617 , Taiwan
| | - Wei-Cheng Liao
- Department of Physics , National Taiwan University , Taipei 10617 , Taiwan
| | - Golam Haider
- Department of Physics , National Taiwan University , Taipei 10617 , Taiwan
| | - Yung-Chi Hsiao
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering , National Chung Hsing University , Taichung 40227 , Taiwan
| | - Chi-Wei Lee
- Research and Development Center for Smart Textile Technology and Department of Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology , National Taipei University of Technology , Taipei 106 , Taiwan
| | - Shu-Wei Chang
- Department of Physics , National Taiwan University , Taipei 10617 , Taiwan
| | - Ying-Huan Chen
- Department of Physics , National Taiwan University , Taipei 10617 , Taiwan
| | - Min-Hsuan Wu
- Department of Physics , National Taiwan University , Taipei 10617 , Taiwan
| | - Rou-Jun Chou
- Department of Physics , National Taiwan University , Taipei 10617 , Taiwan
| | | | - Yen-Yu Lin
- Department of Physics , National Taiwan University , Taipei 10617 , Taiwan
| | - Yi-Zih Chen
- Department of Physics , National Taiwan University , Taipei 10617 , Taiwan
| | - Monika Kataria
- Department of Physics , National Taiwan University , Taipei 10617 , Taiwan
| | - Shih-Yao Lin
- Department of Physics , National Taiwan University , Taipei 10617 , Taiwan
| | | | - Wei-Ju Lin
- Department of Physics , National Taiwan University , Taipei 10617 , Taiwan
| | - Wen-Ya Lee
- Research and Development Center for Smart Textile Technology and Department of Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology , National Taipei University of Technology , Taipei 106 , Taiwan
| | - Tai-Yuan Lin
- Institute of Optoelectronic Sciences , National Taiwan Ocean University , Keelung 202 , Taiwan
| | - Ying-Chih Lai
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering , National Chung Hsing University , Taichung 40227 , Taiwan
- Research Center for Sustainable Energy and Nanotechnology, Innovation and Development Center of Sustainable Agriculture , National Chung Hsing University , Taichung 40227 , Taiwan
| | - Yang-Fang Chen
- Department of Physics , National Taiwan University , Taipei 10617 , Taiwan
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Abstract
Robots performing automated tasks in uncontrolled environments need to adapt to environmental changes. Through building large collectives of robots, this robust and adaptive behavior can emerge from simple individual rules. These collectives can also be reconfigured, allowing for adaption to new tasks. Larger collectives are more robust and more capable, but the size of existing collectives is limited by the cost of individual units. In this article, we present a soft, modular robot that we have explicitly designed for manufacturability: Linbots. Linbots use multifunctional voice coils to actuate linearly, to produce audio output, and to sense touch. When used in collectives, the Linbots can communicate with neighboring Linbots allowing for isolated behavior as well as the propagation of information throughout a collective. We demonstrate that these collectives of Linbots can perform complex tasks in a scalable distributed manner, and we show transport of objects by collective peristalsis and sorting of objects by a two-dimensional array of Linbots.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ross M. McKenzie
- Scottish Microelectronics Centre, School of Engineering, Institute for Integrated Micro and Nano Systems, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
- EPSRC CDT in Robotics and Autonomous Systems, Edinburgh Centre for Robotics, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Mohammed E. Sayed
- Scottish Microelectronics Centre, School of Engineering, Institute for Integrated Micro and Nano Systems, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Markus P. Nemitz
- Scottish Microelectronics Centre, School of Engineering, Institute for Integrated Micro and Nano Systems, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
- Department of Computer Science and Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Brian W. Flynn
- Scottish Microelectronics Centre, School of Engineering, Institute for Integrated Micro and Nano Systems, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Adam A. Stokes
- Scottish Microelectronics Centre, School of Engineering, Institute for Integrated Micro and Nano Systems, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Lin PW, Liu CH. Bio-Inspired Soft Proboscis Actuator Driven by Dielectric Elastomer Fluid Transducers. Polymers (Basel) 2019; 11:E142. [PMID: 30960125 PMCID: PMC6401884 DOI: 10.3390/polym11010142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2018] [Revised: 01/06/2019] [Accepted: 01/07/2019] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
In recent years, dielectric elastomer actuators (DEAs) have attracted lots of attention for providing multiple degree-of-freedom motions, such as axial extensions, torsion, bending, and their combinations. The wide applications include soft robots, artificial muscles, and biomimetic animals. In general, DEAs are composed of stretchable elastomers sandwiched by two compliant electrodes and actuated by applying external electric stimuli. Since most DEAs are limited by the breakdown thresholds and low strain-to-volume ratios, dielectric fluid transducers (DFTs) have been developed by substituting dielectric elastomers with dielectric fluids for high breakdown threshold voltages. In addition, DFTs have large rate of lateral extensions, due to their fluid contents, and are beneficial for soft actuators and pumping applications. In this research, we exploited DFTs to develop a soft spiral proboscis actuator inspired by the proboscises of butterflies for achieving uncoiling and coiling motions under external voltages. The bio-inspired spiral proboscis actuator (BSPA) was composed of a coil-shaped tube, a DFT-based pouch, and a spiral spring for mimicking the tubular part, a mechanism to uncoil the tube, and a mechanism to coil the tube, respectively. When applying external voltages to the pouch, the high dielectric fluid was injected into the empty coiled tube for uncoiling where the tube elongated from a compact volume to a stiff and flexible shape. When removing the exciting voltages, the tube retracted to its original coiled shape via the elastic spring. A prototype was designed, fabricated, and examined with high stimulating voltages. It was demonstrated that the proboscis actuator could achieve uncoiling and coiling motions consistently for several cycles. Compared to convection DEA-based pumps with fixed shapes, the proposed actuator is soft and beneficial for portable applications and coiling/uncoiling motions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Po-Wen Lin
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, National Taiwan University, Taipei 10617, Taiwan.
| | - Chien-Hao Liu
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, National Taiwan University, Taipei 10617, Taiwan.
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Qazi R, Kim CY, Byun SH, Jeong JW. Microscale Inorganic LED Based Wireless Neural Systems for Chronic in vivo Optogenetics. Front Neurosci 2018; 12:764. [PMID: 30405343 PMCID: PMC6205995 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2018.00764] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2018] [Accepted: 10/03/2018] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Billions of neurons in the brain coordinate together to control trillions of highly convoluted synaptic pathways for neural signal processing. Optogenetics is an emerging technique that can dissect such complex neural circuitry with high spatiotemporal precision using light. However, conventional approaches relying on rigid and tethered optical probes cause significant tissue damage as well as disturbance with natural behavior of animals, thus preventing chronic in vivo optogenetics. A microscale inorganic LED (μ-ILED) is an enabling optical component that can solve these problems by facilitating direct discrete spatial targeting of neural tissue, integration with soft, ultrathin probes as well as low power wireless operation. Here we review recent state-of-the art μ-ILED integrated soft wireless optogenetic tools suitable for use in freely moving animals and discuss opportunities for future developments.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Raza Qazi
- School of Electrical Engineering, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), Daejeon, South Korea.,Department of Electrical, Computer & Energy Engineering, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, United States
| | - Choong Yeon Kim
- School of Electrical Engineering, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), Daejeon, South Korea
| | - Sang-Hyuk Byun
- School of Electrical Engineering, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), Daejeon, South Korea
| | - Jae-Woong Jeong
- School of Electrical Engineering, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), Daejeon, South Korea
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Sim HJ, Lee DY, Kim H, Choi YB, Kim HH, Baughman RH, Kim SJ. Stretchable Fiber Biofuel Cell by Rewrapping Multiwalled Carbon Nanotube Sheets. Nano Lett 2018; 18:5272-5278. [PMID: 29995416 DOI: 10.1021/acs.nanolett.8b02256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
The fiber-type biofuel cell is attractive as an implantable energy source because the fiber can modify various structures and the wound can be stitched like a suture. In addition, in daily life, the biofuel cell is forced by human motion, and stretchability is a critical requirement for real applications. Therefore, we introduce a new type of highly stretchable, stable, soft fiber biofuel cell with microdiameter dimensions as an energy harvester. The completed biofuel cell operated well in fluids similar to human fluids, such as 20 mM phosphate-buffered 0.14 M NaCl solution (39.5 mW/cm2) and human serum (36.6 μW/cm2). The fiber-type biofuel cell can be reversibly stretched up to 100% in tensile direction while producing sustainable electrical power. In addition, the unique rewrapping structure, which traps the enzyme between multiwalled carbon nanotube sheets, enormously enhanced the stability of the biofuel cell when the biofuel cell was repeatedly stretched (the power density retention increased from 63 to 99%) and operated in human serum (the power density retention increased from 29 to 86%). The fiber can be easily woven into various structures, such as McKibben braid yarn, and scaled up by series and parallel connections.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hyeon Jun Sim
- Center for Self-Powered Actuation, Department of Biomedical Engineering , Hanyang University , Seoul 04763 , Korea
| | - Dong Yeop Lee
- Center for Self-Powered Actuation, Department of Biomedical Engineering , Hanyang University , Seoul 04763 , Korea
| | - Hyunsoo Kim
- Center for Self-Powered Actuation, Department of Biomedical Engineering , Hanyang University , Seoul 04763 , Korea
| | - Young-Bong Choi
- Department of Chemistry , Dankook University , Cheonan 31116 , Korea
| | - Hyug-Han Kim
- Department of Chemistry , Dankook University , Cheonan 31116 , Korea
| | - Ray H Baughman
- The Alan G. MacDiarmid NanoTech Institute , University of Texas at Dallas , Richardson , Texas 75083 , United States
| | - Seon Jeong Kim
- Center for Self-Powered Actuation, Department of Biomedical Engineering , Hanyang University , Seoul 04763 , Korea
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Abstract
Soft robotic systems generally require both soft actuators and soft sensors to perform complex functions. Separate actuators and sensors are often combined into one composite device when proprioception (self-sensing) is required. In this article, we introduce the concept of using a conductive liquid to perform both the sensing and actuation functions of a proprioceptive soft actuator. The working fluid drives actuator deformation while simultaneously acting as a strain-sensing component for detecting actuator deformation. The concept is examined and demonstrated in two proprioceptive flexible fluidic actuators (FFAs) that use conductive liquids as their working fluids: a linear actuator and a bending actuator. In both cases, we show that resistance can be used to infer strain. Some hysteresis and nonlinearity are present, but repeatability is high. The bandwidth of resistance as a sensing variable in the bending FFA is tested and found to be ∼3.665 Hz. Resistance is demonstrated as a feedback variable in a control loop, and the proprioceptive bending FFA is controlled to respond to step input and sinusoidal target functions. The effect of temperature on resistance-strain behavior is also examined, and we demonstrate how measurement of volume and resistance can be used to detect when the actuator is constrained. Biocompatible proprioceptive soft actuators such as those presented in this article are ideal for use in low-cost bionic healthcare components such as orthotics, prosthetics, or even replacement muscles.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tim Helps
- Department of Engineering Mathematics, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
- Bristol Robotics Laboratory, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - Jonathan Rossiter
- Department of Engineering Mathematics, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
- Bristol Robotics Laboratory, Bristol, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Cheng N, Amend J, Farrell T, Latour D, Martinez C, Johansson J, McNicoll A, Wartenberg M, Naseef S, Hanson W, Culley W. Prosthetic Jamming Terminal Device: A Case Study of Untethered Soft Robotics. Soft Robot 2016; 3:205-212. [PMID: 28078196 DOI: 10.1089/soro.2016.0017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
This article illuminates the major and often overlooked challenge of untethering soft robotic systems through the context of recent work, in which soft robotic gripper technology enabled by jamming of granular media was applied to a prosthetic jamming terminal device (PJTD). The PJTD's technical and market feasibility was evaluated in a pilot study with two upper-limb amputees. A PJTD prototype was tested against a commercial device (Motion Control electric terminal service with a one degree-of-freedom pinching mechanism) using two existing hand function tests: the first quantified the device's speed in picking and placing small blocks and the second evaluated a person's ability to perform activities of daily living (ADLs). The PJTD prototype performed slightly slower than its commercial counterpart in the first test. While both participants successfully completed all the ADLs with both devices in the second test, the commercial device scored marginally higher. Results suggested that PJTD can have potential benefits over existing terminal devices, such as providing the capability to firmly grasp tools due to the ability of PJTD to conform to arbitrary surfaces and reducing compensatory shoulder movements due to its axisymmetric design. Some downsides were that users reported fatigue while operating the PJTD, as most operations require pushing the PJTD against target objects to adequately conform to them. The greatest drawback for the PJTD is also a major roadblock preventing a number of soft robotic research projects from making an impact in real-world applications: pneumatic technology required for operating the PJTD is currently too large and heavy to enable compact untethered operation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nadia Cheng
- Empire Robotics, Inc. , Boston, Massachusetts
| | - John Amend
- Empire Robotics, Inc. , Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Todd Farrell
- Liberating Technologies, Inc. , Holliston, Massachusetts
| | - Debra Latour
- Single-Handed Solutions , LLC, Springfield, Massachusetts
| | | | - Jen Johansson
- Liberating Technologies, Inc. , Holliston, Massachusetts
| | | | | | | | - William Hanson
- Liberating Technologies, Inc. , Holliston, Massachusetts
| | | |
Collapse
|
38
|
Raney JR, Nadkarni N, Daraio C, Kochmann DM, Lewis JA, Bertoldi K. Stable propagation of mechanical signals in soft media using stored elastic energy. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2016; 113:9722-7. [PMID: 27519797 PMCID: PMC5024640 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1604838113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Soft structures with rationally designed architectures capable of large, nonlinear deformation present opportunities for unprecedented, highly tunable devices and machines. However, the highly dissipative nature of soft materials intrinsically limits or prevents certain functions, such as the propagation of mechanical signals. Here we present an architected soft system composed of elastomeric bistable beam elements connected by elastomeric linear springs. The dissipative nature of the polymer readily damps linear waves, preventing propagation of any mechanical signal beyond a short distance, as expected. However, the unique architecture of the system enables propagation of stable, nonlinear solitary transition waves with constant, controllable velocity and pulse geometry over arbitrary distances. Because the high damping of the material removes all other linear, small-amplitude excitations, the desired pulse propagates with high fidelity and controllability. This phenomenon can be used to control signals, as demonstrated by the design of soft mechanical diodes and logic gates.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jordan R Raney
- John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02138; Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02138
| | - Neel Nadkarni
- Graduate Aerospace Laboratories, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA 91125
| | - Chiara Daraio
- Engineering and Applied Science, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA 91125; Department of Mechanical and Process Engineering, ETH Zurich, 8092 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Dennis M Kochmann
- Graduate Aerospace Laboratories, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA 91125;
| | - Jennifer A Lewis
- John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02138; Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02138;
| | - Katia Bertoldi
- John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02138; Kavli Institute, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02138
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Hines L, Petersen K, Sitti M. Inflated Soft Actuators with Reversible Stable Deformations. Adv Mater 2016; 28:3690-3696. [PMID: 27008455 DOI: 10.1002/adma.201600107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2016] [Revised: 02/11/2016] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Most soft robotic systems are currently dependent on bulky compressors or pumps. A soft actuation method is presented combining hyperelastic membranes and dielectric elastomer actuators to switch between stable deformations of sealed chambers. This method is capable of large repeatable deformations, and has a number of stable states proportional to the number of actuatable membranes in the chamber.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lindsey Hines
- Physical Intelligence Department, Max Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems, Heisenbergstraße 3, 70569, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Kirstin Petersen
- Physical Intelligence Department, Max Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems, Heisenbergstraße 3, 70569, Stuttgart, Germany
- Max Planck-ETH Center for Learning Systems, Heisenbergstraße 3, 70569, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Metin Sitti
- Physical Intelligence Department, Max Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems, Heisenbergstraße 3, 70569, Stuttgart, Germany
- Max Planck-ETH Center for Learning Systems, Heisenbergstraße 3, 70569, Stuttgart, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Öztürk B, Serdaroǧlu M. Quality Characteristics of PSE-Like Turkey Pectoralis major Muscles Generated by High Post-Mortem Temperature in a Local Turkish Slaughterhouse. Korean J Food Sci Anim Resour 2016; 35:524-32. [PMID: 26761875 PMCID: PMC4662136 DOI: 10.5851/kosfa.2015.35.4.524] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2015] [Revised: 07/13/2015] [Accepted: 07/20/2015] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of high post-mortem temperature application on development of pale, soft, exudative (PSE) turkey meat characteristics in terms of local slaughter conditions. Within this scope, it was targeted to obtain PSE-like muscles benefiting from different post-mortem temperature applications. Immediately after slaughter, turkey Pectoralis major (n=15) muscles were kept at various post-mortem temperatures (0, 10, 20, 30, and 40℃) for 5 h. pH values of 40℃ treatment were lower than four other treatments (p<0.05). L* values, drip loss, cook loss, and thawing loss of 40℃ group were higher than the other groups (p< 0.05). Napole yield of 40℃ treatment indicated that high post-mortem temperature decreases brine uptake. Protein solubility of 40℃ group was lower than 0℃ group (p<0.05). Expressible moisture did not differ between 0 and 40℃ treatments. Hardness, gumminess and chewiness of 40℃ treatment were higher than 0℃ treatment. The results of this research showed that high post-mortem temperature treatment induced development of PSE-like turkey meat, with lower pH, paler color, higher technological and storage losses, and reduced protein solubility and texture.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Burcu Öztürk
- Ege University, Engineering Faculty, Food Engineering Department, Bornova, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Meltem Serdaroǧlu
- Ege University, Engineering Faculty, Food Engineering Department, Bornova, Izmir, Turkey
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Cai LH, Kodger TE, Guerra RE, Pegoraro AF, Rubinstein M, Weitz DA. Soft Poly(dimethylsiloxane) Elastomers from Architecture-Driven Entanglement Free Design. Adv Mater 2015; 27:5132-40. [PMID: 26259975 PMCID: PMC4662383 DOI: 10.1002/adma.201502771] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2015] [Revised: 07/04/2015] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
Soft, solvent-free poly(dimethylsiloxane) elastomers are fabricated by a one-step process via crosslinking bottlebrush polymers. The bottlebrush architecture prevents the formation of entanglements, resulting in elastomers with precisely controllable low moduli from 1 to 100 kPa, below the lower limit of traditional elastomers; moreover, the solvent-free nature enables their negligible adhesiveness compared to commercially available silicone products of similar stiffness.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Li-Heng Cai
- John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA
| | - Thomas E. Kodger
- John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA
| | - Rodrigo E. Guerra
- John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA
| | - Adrian F. Pegoraro
- John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA
| | - Michael Rubinstein
- Department of Chemistry, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599-3290, USA
| | - David A. Weitz
- John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Frediani G, Mazzei D, De Rossi DE, Carpi F. Wearable wireless tactile display for virtual interactions with soft bodies. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2014; 2:31. [PMID: 25225636 PMCID: PMC4150388 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2014.00031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2014] [Accepted: 08/12/2014] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
We describe here a wearable, wireless, compact, and lightweight tactile display, able to mechanically stimulate the fingertip of users, so as to simulate contact with soft bodies in virtual environments. The device was based on dielectric elastomer actuators, as high-performance electromechanically active polymers. The actuator was arranged at the user’s fingertip, integrated within a plastic case, which also hosted a compact high-voltage circuitry. A custom-made wireless control unit was arranged on the forearm and connected to the display via low-voltage leads. We present the structure of the device and a characterization of it, in terms of electromechanical response and stress relaxation. Furthermore, we present results of a psychophysical test aimed at assessing the ability of the system to generate different levels of force that can be perceived by users.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gabriele Frediani
- School of Engineering and Material Science, Queen Mary University of London , London , UK
| | - Daniele Mazzei
- Research Center "E. Piaggio", University of Pisa , Pisa , Italy
| | | | - Federico Carpi
- School of Engineering and Material Science, Queen Mary University of London , London , UK
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Zhao Q, Li Z, Huang J, Yan C, Dazzan P, Pantelis C, Cheung EFC, Lui SSY, Chan RCK. Neurological soft signs are not "soft" in brain structure and functional networks: evidence from ALE meta-analysis. Schizophr Bull 2014; 40:626-41. [PMID: 23671197 PMCID: PMC3984512 DOI: 10.1093/schbul/sbt063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 106] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Neurological soft signs (NSS) are associated with schizophrenia and related psychotic disorders. NSS have been conventionally considered as clinical neurological signs without localized brain regions. However, recent brain imaging studies suggest that NSS are partly localizable and may be associated with deficits in specific brain areas. METHOD We conducted an activation likelihood estimation meta-analysis to quantitatively review structural and functional imaging studies that evaluated the brain correlates of NSS in patients with schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders. Six structural magnetic resonance imaging (sMRI) and 15 functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) studies were included. RESULTS The results from meta-analysis of the sMRI studies indicated that NSS were associated with atrophy of the precentral gyrus, the cerebellum, the inferior frontal gyrus, and the thalamus. The results from meta-analysis of the fMRI studies demonstrated that the NSS-related task was significantly associated with altered brain activation in the inferior frontal gyrus, bilateral putamen, the cerebellum, and the superior temporal gyrus. CONCLUSIONS Our findings from both sMRI and fMRI meta-analyses further support the conceptualization of NSS as a manifestation of the "cerebello-thalamo-prefrontal" brain network model of schizophrenia and related psychotic disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qing Zhao
- *To whom correspondence should be addressed; 4A Datun Road, Beijing 100101, China; tel/fax: +86(0)10 64836274, e-mail:
| | - Zhi Li
- Neuropsychology and Applied Cognitive Neuroscience Laboratory, Key Laboratory of Mental Health, Institute of Psychology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China;,Key Laboratory of Mental Health, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Jia Huang
- Neuropsychology and Applied Cognitive Neuroscience Laboratory, Key Laboratory of Mental Health, Institute of Psychology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Chao Yan
- Neuropsychology and Applied Cognitive Neuroscience Laboratory, Key Laboratory of Mental Health, Institute of Psychology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China;,Key Laboratory of Mental Health, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Paola Dazzan
- Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, London, UK
| | - Christos Pantelis
- Melbourne Neuropsychiatry Centre, University of Melbourne & Melbourne Health, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Eric F. C. Cheung
- General Adult Psychiatry, Castle Peak Hospital, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China
| | - Simon S. Y. Lui
- Neuropsychology and Applied Cognitive Neuroscience Laboratory, Key Laboratory of Mental Health, Institute of Psychology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China;,Key Laboratory of Mental Health, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China;,General Adult Psychiatry, Castle Peak Hospital, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China
| | - Raymond C. K. Chan
- Neuropsychology and Applied Cognitive Neuroscience Laboratory, Key Laboratory of Mental Health, Institute of Psychology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China;,*To whom correspondence should be addressed; 4A Datun Road, Beijing 100101, China; tel/fax: +86(0)10 64836274, e-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Hoover JM, Morris JM, Meyer FB. Use of preoperative magnetic resonance imaging T1 and T2 sequences to determine intraoperative meningioma consistency. Surg Neurol Int 2011; 2:142. [PMID: 22059137 PMCID: PMC3205511 DOI: 10.4103/2152-7806.85983] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2011] [Accepted: 09/08/2011] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Meningioma firmness is a critical factor that influences ease of resection and risk, notably when operating on tumors intimate with neurovascular structures such as the mesial sphenoid wing. This study develops a predictive tool using preoperative magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) characteristics to determine meningioma consistency. Methods: 101 patients with intracranial meningioma (50 soft/51 firm) were included. MRI characteristics of 38 tumors (19 soft/19 firm) were retrospectively reviewed to identify preoperative imaging features that were then correlated with intraoperative description of the tumor as either “soft and/or suckable” or “firm and/or fibrous”. Criteria were developed to predict consistency and then blindly applied to the remaining 63 meningiomas (31 soft/32 firm). Results: The overall sensitivities for detecting soft and firm consistency were 90% and 56%, respectively (95% CI = 73–97% and 38–73%; P < 0.001). Compared to gray matter, meningiomas that were T2 hypointense were almost always firm. Soft meningiomas were hyperintense on T2 and hypointense on T1. Soft meningiomas were slightly larger and less likely to be associated with edema. There was a slight preponderance of firm meningiomas in the infratentorial compartment. Grade of meningioma was not predictive. Contrast enhancement, diffusion restriction, changes in overlying bone, intratumoral cysts, and angiographic features were not predictable. Conclusions: This tool using T1 and T2 series predicts meningioma consistency. Such knowledge should assist the surgeon in preoperative planning and counseling.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jason M Hoover
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | | | | |
Collapse
|