In this paper, mesoscale modeling is performed to simulate and understand fracture behavior of two concrete composites: cement and asphalt concrete using disk-shaped compact tension (DCT) tests. Mesoscale models are used as alternative to macroscale models to obtain better realistic behavior of composite and heterogeneous materials such as cement and asphalt concrete. In mesoscale models, aggregate and matrix are represented as distinct materials and each material has its characteristic properties. Disk-shaped compact tension test is used to obtain tensile strength and fracture energy of materials. This test can be used as a better alternative to other tests such as three points bending tests because it is more convenient for both field and laboratory specimens in addition to its accurate results. Comparing the numerical results of the mesoscale models of cement and asphalt concrete specimens with experimental data shows that these models can predict the behavior of these composite materials very well as seen in the curves of load-crack mouth opening displacement (CMOD). Also, the mesoscale modeling highlights the variability of crack direction where it is dependent on the random distribution of aggregate.
The flavonoglycone hesperidin is recognized as a potent anti-inflammatory, anticancer, and antioxidant agent. However, its poor bioavailability is a crucial bottleneck regarding its therapeutic activity. Gold nanoparticles are widely used in drug delivery because of its unique properties that differ from bulk metal. Hesperidin loaded gold nanoparticles were successfully prepared to enhance its stability and bioactive potential, as well as to minimize the problems associated with its absorption. The free radical scavenging activities of hesperidin, gold nanoparticles, and hesperidin loaded gold nanoparticles were compared with that of Vitamin C and subsequently evaluated in vitro using 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl assay. The antioxi
... Show MoreThis paper suggests a novel optimal inverse Radial Basis Function (RBF) neural network model for the control of Twin Rotor Aerodynamic Systems (TRAS), such as Multi-Input–Multi-Output (MIMO) systems with high nonlinearity and coupling effects between channels. After analyzing and linearizing the dynamic model, TRAS is decoupled into two Single Input Single Output (SISO) systems, thereby creating vertical (pitch model) and horizontal (yaw model) systems. The relationship between the output angle of each subsystem and the input voltage is modeled using the inverse RBF neural network. The weights, biases, centers and widths of the Gaussian function are unknown parameters of the proposed inverse neural model, and they are obtained usi
... Show MoreOne of the most significant challenges of medical care is the infection of postoperative wounds, and conventional visual examination often fails to detect it early. This research proposes the design of an innovative, passive wireless telemetry system for non-intrusive monitoring of the wound-healing process. The system integrates a biocompatible resonance circuit (LC) with a high-sensitivity piezoresistive sensor based on MXene (Ti3C2Tx). It operates within the standard industrial and medical (ISM) band at 13.56 MHz.The detection mechanism in the system is based on the principle of "impedance modulation" (Impedance Modulation), which arises from changes in the sensor's resistance under physiological tissue pressure. The system was
... Show MoreRoller compacted concrete (RCC) is a concrete compacted by roller compaction. The concrete mixture in its unhardened state must support a roller while being compacted. The aim of this research work was to investigate the behavior and properties of roller compacted concrete when constructed in the laboratory using roller compactor manufactured in local market to simulate the field conditions. The roller compaction was conducts in three stages; each stage has different loading and number of passes of the roller. For the first stage, a load of (24) kg and (5) passes in each direction had been employed. For the second stage, a load of (104) kg and (10) passes in each direction were conducted. Finally, at the third stage, a load of (183) kg a
... Show MoreNo-fines concrete is an advanced pavement material known for its strong drainage capabilities, making it a widely used rigid road surface. With growing demand for reduced cement content due to industrial advancements, researchers have explored epoxy resin as a partial or total cement replacement. This study examines the mechanical properties of no-fines concrete with varying epoxy replacement levels and applies KENSLAB analysis for pavement thickness design. Seven concrete mixes were prepared with epoxy replacing cement at 100%, 95%, 75%, 55%, 35%, and 15%. Mechanical tests, including compressive strength, flexural strength, modulus of elasticity, bulk density, water absorption, and durability (wet-dry), were conducted after 7 and 2
... Show MoreSoft robotics offers a flexible alternative to rigid systems, enabling safe and adaptive interaction in biomedical, wearable, and unstructured environments. Among available actuation methods, soft electromagnetic actuators are notable for their fast response, low operating voltage, and ease of integration. However, some designs require pre-stretching mechanism, which produces an external force to maintain the separation between the coil and permanent magnets. Additionally, there is a mechanical complexity and difficulty in calibrating the spring parameters precisely. Furthermore, the pre-stretching mechanism increases the electromagnetic force required to counteract the opposing spring force, leading to a significant increase in power consu
... Show MoreDeep beams are used in wide construction fields such as water tanks, foundations, and girders in multi-story buildings to provide certain areas free of columns. In practice it is quite often occurring to create web opening in deep beams to supply convenient passage of ventilation ducts, cable channels, gas and water pipes. Experimental studies of ten 10 deep beams were carried out, where two of them are control specimens without openings and eight with large web openings in the shear spans. The variables that have been adopted are the ratio of the shear span to the overall depth of the member cross-section, location and dimensions of the opening. Test results showed that there was a decrease in the load carrying capacity of deep bea
... Show MoreDeep beams are used in wide construction fields such as water tanks, foundations, and girders in multi-story buildings to provide certain areas free of columns. In practice it is quite often occurring to create web opening in deep beams to supply convenient passage of ventilation ducts, cable channels, gas and water pipes. Experimental studies of ten 10 deep beams were carried out, where two of them are control specimens without openings and eight with large web openings in the shear spans. The variables that have been adopted are the ratio of the shear span to the overall depth of the member cross-section, location and dimensions of the opening. Test results showed that there was a decrease in the load carrying capacity of deep bea
... Show MoreTwisting and coiling actuators (TCAs) are lightweight artificial muscles that can produce large linear contractions while lifting heavy loads with low power. A TCA consists of two or more strings connected to a rotational motor and a load. When activated, the strings twist and coil, causing contraction. This study presents a data-driven framework for modeling TCA behavior using experimental data. Polynomial regression, Support Vector Regression (SVR), and symbolic regression were applied using the motor angle and payload weight as inputs. The models were evaluated under various loads and implemented in a neck-rehabilitation prototype. SVR showed the highest accuracy (RMSE: 6.17 mm upward, 4.98 mm downward); however, it lacks a closed-form e
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