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The proposed article discusses the principles of implementing artificial intelligence (AI) methods in industrial control systems focusing on the deployment of neural networks (NNs) within programmable logic controllers (PLCs). Recent advancements in AI have led to significant improvements in modeling, control, quality control and predictive maintenance. This progress is further supported by the development of newer CPU architectures in PLCs, which offer enhanced processing speeds and capabilities. These advanced CPUs facilitate the implementation of more complex AI algorithms enabling systems to perform real-time data analysis. By leveraging the power of AI and improved hardware, industries can achieve higher levels of automation and better decision-making. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Current waste sorting mechanisms, particularly those relying on manual processes, semi-automated systems, or technologies without Artificial Intelligence (AI) integration, are hindered by inefficiencies, inaccuracies, and limited scalability, reducing their effectiveness in meeting growing waste management demands. This study introduces a prototype waste sorting machine that integrates an AI-driven vision system with a Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) for high-accuracy automated waste sorting. The system, powered by the YOLOv8 deep learning model, achieved sorting accuracies of 88% for metal cans, 75% for paper, and 91% for plastic bottles, with an overall precision of 90%, a recall of 80%, and a mean average precision (mAP50) of 86%. The vision system provides real-time classification, while the PLC manages conveyor and actuator operations to ensure seamless sorting. Experimental results in a controlled environment validate the system's high accuracy, minimal processing delays, and scalability for industrial recycling applications. This innovative integration of AI vision with PLC automation enhances sorting efficiency, reduces ecological impacts, and minimizes labor dependency. Furthermore, the system aligns with sustainable waste management practices, promoting circular economy principles and advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates the potential of deploying a neural network model on an advanced programmable logic controller (PLC), specifically the Finder Opta™, for real-time inference within the predictive maintenance framework. In the context of Industry 4.0, edge computing aims to process data directly on local devices rather than relying on a cloud infrastructure. This approach minimizes latency, enhances data security, and reduces the bandwidth required for data transmission, making it ideal for industrial applications that demand immediate response times. Despite the limited memory and processing power inherent to many edge devices, this proof-of-concept demonstrates the suitability of the Finder Opta™ for such applications. Using acoustic data, a convolutional neural network (CNN) is deployed to infer the rotational speed of a mechanical test bench. The findings underscore the potential of the Finder Opta™ to support scalable and efficient predictive maintenance solutions, laying the groundwork for future research in real-time anomaly detection. By enabling machine learning capabilities on compact, resource-constrained hardware, this approach promises a cost-effective, adaptable solution for diverse industrial environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The failure rate following posterolateral corner reconstruction (PLC) remains high. Previous research indicates that in posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) reconstruction the laxity is affected by the tibial slope (TS). However, there is currently no literature evaluating the impact of TS on surgical outcome in combined reconstruction of PLC/PCL. Methods: This study analyzed 47 patients in a retrospective cohort study who underwent PCL and anatomical PLC reconstruction according to techniques described by Arciero or LaPrade. TS was measured, and patients were divided into two groups: Group A (n = 16) with TS < 8° and Group B (n = 31) with TS ≥ 8°. After a minimum follow-up of 12 months, the side-to-side difference (SSD) of posterior tibial translation (PTT) was assessed using instrumented stability testing (Rolimeter), and various patient-reported outcome measures (IKDC, Lysholm) were collected and compared. Results: At a mean follow-up of 17.7 ± 4.7 months, group A exhibited a higher SSD of PTT (A 3.9 mm ± 2.1 vs. B: 2.8 mm ± 1.5; p < 0.05). A negative correlation was observed between SSD of PTT and both TS (r = − 0.43; R2 = 0.18; p < 0.01) and the Lysholm Score (r = − 0.41; R2 = 0.17; p < 0.01) in the overall cohort. Subgroup analysis revealed a higher Lysholm Score in patients with a postoperative SSD of PTT less than 4 mm (85.7 ± 10.1 vs. 79.2 ± 6.6; p = 0.0006). Conclusion: In combined PCL and anatomic PLC reconstruction a TS < 8° results in elevated SSD of PTT. A flattened TS is linked to higher remaining SSD of PTT, while lower SSD of PTT is associated with improved clinical outcomes. Level of evidence: Retrospective Cohort Study, IV. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Pseudorabies virus (PRV) can establish lifelong latent infection in peripheral nervous ganglion, and persistent infections in peripheral blood lymphocytes. Establishing an infection in the lymphocytes does not only enable the PRV to escape host immune surveillance but pass through the placental barrier, leading to fetal death and abortion. Due to the pathogenicity of the PRV, it poses a huge challenge in its prevention and control. The PRV escapes host immunity through downregulation of swine leukocyte antigen class I (SLA I) molecules on infected cells. However, data on the molecular mechanisms of the SLA I suppression remains scant. Here, in order to verify the effect of candidate proteins PRV pUL44 and pUS6 on PRV immune escape related molecules SLA I and peptide loading complex (PLC), we detected the expression of SLA I and PLC components after expressing PRV pUL44 and pUS6. The effects of pUS6 and pUL44 on SLA I and PLC were analyzed by qRT-PCR and Western blot at mRNA and protein level, respectively. Cells expressing pUS6 or pUL44 genes showed a significantly suppressed expression of surface and total SLA I molecules. In addition, unlike UL44, the US6 gene was shown to downregulate the transporter associated with antigen processing 1 (TAP1), TAP2 and Tapasin molecules. The results show that PRV pUS6 may participate in virus immune escape by directly regulating the SLA I, TAP dimer and Tapasin molecules, thus blocking the transportation of TAP-bound peptides to the ER to bind SLA I molecules. We provide a theoretical basis on the mechanism of TAP mediated immune escape by the PRV.

Purpose: The primary purpose of this paper is to use a process mining method on collected and appropriately prepared event logs from the MES class system of the entity under study. Design/methodology/approach: With the classical process mining approach using the XES standard, the Alpha algorithm and Petri nets, event logs of the manufacturing process were analysed. To perform the analysis, 379,341 rows of data were extracted from the MES system, representing 7194 instances and 76 different activities. Findings: a key result of the presented research is the conclusion regarding the quality of the data generated by the controllers. Timestamps for events in the MES system may need to be corrected. Research limitations/implications: The paper presents a case study for a specific set of controllers and an MES system. For this particular configuration, additional mechanisms are required to synchronise time stamps from one location (e.g. an NTP server). The results may be different for a different hardware and software configuration of the MES system. Practical implications: The result of the research carried out in this paper also leads to conclusions of a practical nature. Incorrect synchronisation of times makes it impossible to control and analyse the process as a whole, even when the whole process is working correctly as an assembly of individual operations. The guidelines developed were passed on to those responsible for the operation of the MES system. Originality/value: In the literature, various case studies can be found for process mining including event logs of ERP systems of others. The authors did not find similar studies for MES systems. In particular, the classical approach for log preparation requires awareness of potential time synchronisation problems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: In pig farming, maintaining an optimal temperature for nursing piglets is critical for their health and growth. Traditional localized heating methods, such as heating lamps, often lack precise temperature control, leading to energy waste and suboptimal conditions for piglets as they grow. This study developed a Programmable Logic Controller-based intelligent thermal insulation box that uses a strip heater to automatically adjust its temperature based on the piglets' age and environmental conditions. We tested the system's effectiveness by comparing it to traditional heating in terms of temperature stability, energy consumption, and piglet growth. The new system significantly improved the temperature stability, reduced energy consumption by over 50%, and enhanced piglet growth. This intelligent thermal insulation box could provide an effective, energy-saving solution for improving piglet welfare and farming efficiency. Local heating of the activity area for nursing piglets is crucial for piglet health and the energy efficiency of barn climate control. Traditional heating methods using lamps or covers lack precise control, result in significant energy waste, and cannot be dynamically adjusted according to piglet age or changing environmental temperatures. To address these issues, this study designed a Programmable Logic Controller (PLC)-based thermal insulation box for nursing piglets, utilizing a strip heater instead of the conventional round heating lamp. The design incorporates a movable thermal insulation box that dynamically adjusts the heater's power based on the real-time monitoring of environmental temperatures and target temperatures specific to piglet age. First, in a controlled laboratory environment, the study tested and compared the spatial temperature uniformity, temporal stability, and power consumption of the new thermal insulation box versus traditional heating methods. Subsequently, animal trials were conducted in a farrowing barn using eight sows with similar farrowing dates as test subjects. The new thermal insulation box was installed in one group, and the traditional heating lamp in the control group. During the trial, ambient temperature, insulation area temperature, piglet behavior, growth performance, and power consumption were recorded. The results showed that compared to the control group, the new system reduced average temperature fluctuations in the insulation area by 31.6% and spatial temperature variation by 78.3%. During animal trials, the average temperatures directly under the heater for the new system versus the control in the insulation area were 39.7 ± 0.2 °C and 30.2 ± 1.4 °C in the first week, 40.9 ± 0.5 °C and 31.6 ± 0.7 °C in the second week, and 32.3 ± 1.5 °C and 28.6 ± 1.7 °C in the third week—significantly (p < 0.05) higher in the test group. The new system also reduced total energy consumption by 58.3%. The usage rate of the thermal insulation area by piglets in the test and control groups was 47.5 ± 5.3% and 42.1 ± 6.6%. The daily weight gain of piglets in the test group was 9.8% higher than that of the control group, also significantly (p < 0.05) higher. This intelligent thermal insulation box enables precise and dynamic temperature control, reducing heating energy consumption and supporting improved piglet health and welfare. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The voltage control of synchronous generators, particularly under varying load conditions, remains a significant and complex challenge in the field of engineering. Although various control methods have been implemented for automatic voltage regulator (AVR) systems to control the terminal voltage of synchronous generators, the PID-based control method continues to be one of the most basic and widely used approaches. Determining the optimal values for the Kp, Ki, and Kd values is essential to ensuring efficient and rapid performance in a PID controller. This study presents PLC-based PID controller tuning using an adaptive artificial bee colony–fuzzy logic (aABC-FL) approach for voltage control in a micro-hydro power plant installed as an experimental setup. The real-time control and monitoring of the system was conducted using an S7-1200 programmable logic controller (PLC) integrated with a totally integrated automation (TIA) portal interface and a SCADA screen. The aABC-Fuzzy design was developed using the MATLAB/Simulink platform, with PLC-MATLAB communication established through OPC UA and the KEPServerEX interface. The results obtained from experiments conducted under different load conditions showed that the proposed aABC-FL PID significantly minimized settling time and overshoot compared to the classical PLC-PID. Additionally, the proposed method not only provided a good dynamic response but also proved to be robust and reliable for real physical AVR systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study presents the design and implementation of a PLC microprocessor adhering to the IEC-61131-3 standard, executed on a Cyclone V FPGA using a DE10-NANO development board. Our microprocessor optimizes the central processing unit by streamlining the data path, achieving a remarkable simulated response time of approximately 60 ns, equivalent to three clock cycles at a 50 MHz frequency for Boolean operations. To substantiate our approach, we conducted practical experiments utilizing a FESTO conveyor station, employing relays as actuators, and incorporating optical and inductive sensors. The results underscore the feasibility of our proposed approach and serve as practical validation of its efficacy. This work introduces a promising avenue for the development of cost-effective PLCs employing SoC FPGA variants. Additionally, a thorough comparison of execution times with other early reported architectures. Our microprocessor outperforms even well-established PLCs like the S7-312, with substantial reductions in execution times of 94.54% for floating-point operations, 71.42–93.33% for word operations, and up to 78.57% for bit operations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Przegląd Elektrotechniczny is the property of Przeglad Elektrotechniczny and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Coal Geology & Exploration is the property of Xian Research Institute of China Coal Research Institute and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The article provides practical insights into the development of a specialized machine for automating the assembly of components based on customer-specified parameters. The initial design undergoes a risk analysis in accordance with the EN ISO 13849 standard, ensuring safety compliance. For the software aspect, we create sequences and algorithms for the machine's individual components using standardized formats within the TIA Portal software. To expedite programming and real-time debugging, a virtual commissioning approach utilising the fe.screen-sim program is employed. This allows us to address any issues or deficiencies in the virtual model, which mirrors the actual machine, optimizing the time needed for final physical adjustments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nowadays, the nylon ropes have been widely applied in many different areas such as fishing, hiking, hoisting, and pull traction. Presently, there are some commercial machines available for nylon rope winding onto a shipping reel before shipment. However, they still need manual operation relying on rapid movement of the hands, also requiring full coordination with the winding action. This operation procedure makes it very difficult to continuously achieve the winding process fast and accurately due to high dependence on human operation but also some forms of diameter deviation occurred from the chemical process. In reality, even a slight human mistake may result in uneven winding outcome. Therefore, an adaptive reeling schedule method using a simple algebra computation is developed to resolve this problem. For this reason, an automatic rope winding control system to adaptively suit various rope diameters with an error involved is developed using adaptive decision-making (ADM) algorithm based on a simple arithmetic operation. First, the winding turn in each layer of drum is obtained from the quotient of the drum length divided by average rope diameter of each layer. Second, through the accumulated winding turn divided by the winding turn of a layer, the quotient represents the number of winding layers, and the remainder is the current winding turn of the layer. Third, the turning location to instantly swift to forward or backward winding direction is therefore determined when the winding turn reaches the target of each layer. The proposed model is realized on the basis of automation mechanism integrated with programming logical controller (PLC), human machine interface (HMI), optical micrometer, server motor, linear motor, tension sensor and optical motor, etc. The experimental results verify that the proposed system can reach 100% reality performance in the rope diameters of 3.8 mm, 4.0 mm, and 6.5 mm. Compared with the traditional winding method taking 15 min, the operation time is reduced to 11 min. Accordingly, it is confirmed that the proposed system is superior to traditional human-handling machines in term of rapidness, robustness, and accuracy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research aims to design and develop an automatic solar irrigation control system based on soil moisture using PLC for Mitragyna speciosa. The various types of irrigation techniques and suitable soil moisture for Mitragyna speciosa, which are important parameters for watering, are discussed in this paper. The proposed system uses calculation methods for solar power generation to produce electricity for water pumps and control devices. A PLC board was used to process the information received from a voltage sensor and a soil moisture sensor to initiate irrigation for Mitragyna speciosa. Additionally, information received from pressure sensors installed on the water pipe was used to process and control two solenoid valves to turn ON/OFF the water supply to achieve a high-velocity and high-volume spray by mini-sprinklers suitable for Mitragyna speciosa. The experimental results showed that the water distribution radius from the water dispenser ranged from 28 to 60 cm, both in low and high sun intensity conditions. Furthermore, the proposed automatic irrigation system could maintain a soil moisture content of 50-80% for Mitragyna speciosa throughout all seasons, resulting in a better fecund of Mitragyna speciosa leaves. The ratio of leaves lost per 1 kilogram of weight was better than the traditional irrigation method by 5.04-9.87%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aims: Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a long-term complication of acute hepatic porphyria (AHP) inclusive of acute intermittent porphyria [AIP], variegate porphyria [VP], or hereditary coproporphyria [HCP]. Data on HCC risk in AHP patients are limited and heterogeneous. We performed this meta-analysis with aims to (a) determine incidence of HCC in AHP and specific subtypes of AHP and (b) examine high-risk groups for HCC. Methods: Data from studies reporting HCC development in AHP patients were pooled and reported per 100 person years with 95% confidence intervals (CI). Results: 12 observational (5 prospective) studies (11 Europe and 1 US) on 2735 patients (mean age 54.8 yrs., 62% females) with AHP (80% AIP) were analyzed. 115 HCC cases were observed with HCC incidence per 100 person years of 0.3 (0.2–0.5) in AHP, 0.4 (0.2–0.6) in AIP, 0.3 (0–0.4) in VP, and 0.2 (0.1–0.6) in HCP. The risk was 0.4 (0.2–0.6) in females, 0.3 (0.1–0.5) in males, 0.9 (0.1–1.7) in symptomatic, and 0.5 (0–1.6) in asymptomatic patients. Analyses were heterogeneous with publication bias. AHP patients with HCC were older females with a higher prevalence of cirrhosis, alcohol use, and viral hepatitis. Conclusions: The annual incidence of HCC in AHP patients is 0.3%, with higher risk in AIP, older females, symptomatic patients, and those with other risk factors of liver disease. Future studies pooling individual patient data and overcoming limitations of the current meta-analysis are needed as a basis for deriving a effective screening and surveillance approach for HCC in patients with AHP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Polytechnic is the property of Journal of Polytechnic and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Phospholipase C (PLC) is an essential enzyme involved in lipid signaling pathways crucial for regulating plant growth and responding to environmental stress. In sorghum, 11 PLC genes have been identified, comprising 6 PI-PLCs and 5 NPCs. Through phylogenetic and interspecies collinearity analyses, structural similarities between SbPLCs and ZmPLCs proteins have been observed, with a particularly strong collinearity between SbPLCs and OsPLCs. Promoter function analysis has shown that SbPLCs are significantly enriched under abiotic stress and hormonal stimuli, like ABA, jasmonic acid, drought, high temperature, and salt. Gene co-expression networks, constructed using a weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA), highlight distinct expression patterns of SbPLC1, SbPLC3a, and SbPLC4 in response to abiotic stress, providing further insights into the expression patterns and interactions of SbPLCs under various environmental stimuli. qRT-PCR results reveal variations in expression levels among most SbPLCs members under different stress conditions (drought, NaCl, NaHCO3), hormone treatments (ABA), and developmental stages, indicating both specific and overlapping expression patterns. This comprehensive analysis offers valuable insights into the roles of SbPLCs in sorghum, shedding light on their specific expression patterns, regulatory elements, and protein interactions across different environmental stimuli and developmental stages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Smart Rail Transit is the property of Smart Rail Transit Editorial Office and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The motivation for this work arose when noticing that definitions of honeypots' interaction level are mainly based on the information technology environment and do not reflect operational technology even if several honeypot projects approach this field. Within operational technology, programmable logic controllers (PLCs) have a main role, resulting in several honeypot researchers choosing to mimic this device at a certain interaction level. However, searching for an interaction level definition that approaches PLCs results in few studies. In this context, this work aims to explore how to adapt the information technology definition of the interaction level in order to encompass PLCs and their specific features. The method chosen to obtain inputs was a literature review where, in attempting to keep the connection with information technology, the features were based in terms of honey system, honey service, and honey token. The findings of this review provide a means to translate these terms when developing a PLC honeypot for a desired interaction level, resulting in a metrics proposal for low and high interaction. Summarizing the proposed metrics, the system of a PLC can be considered as the vendor specific firmware, its unique device banner, and a realistic network topology. For services, a PLC honeypot reflects the tasks performed by the real device, thus resulting in industrial communication protocols, network management protocols, appropriate response times, code-related interactions, dynamic input and output data processing, physical process simulation, and web interface. Lastly, a PLC honey token can be approached with the PLC program file, MIB file, and software license, among other elements. Based on these metrics, researchers can better evaluate how to design a programmable logic controller honeypot or select tools that match their target interaction level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pseudorabies virus (PRV) can establish lifelong latent infection in peripheral nervous ganglion, and persistent infections in peripheral blood lymphocytes. Establishing an infection in the lymphocytes does not only enable the PRV to escape host immune surveillance but pass through the placental barrier, leading to fetal death and abortion. Due to the pathogenicity of the PRV, it poses a huge challenge in its prevention and control. The PRV escapes host immunity through downregulation of swine leukocyte antigen class I (SLA I) molecules on infected cells. However, data on the molecular mechanisms of the SLA I suppression remains scant. Here, in order to verify the effect of candidate proteins PRV pUL44 and pUS6 on PRV immune escape related molecules SLA I and peptide loading complex (PLC), we detected the expression of SLA I and PLC components after expressing PRV pUL44 and pUS6. The effects of pUS6 and pUL44 on SLA I and PLC were analyzed by qRT-PCR and Western blot at mRNA and protein level, respectively. Cells expressing pUS6 or pUL44 genes showed a significantly suppressed expression of surface and total SLA I molecules. In addition, unlike UL44, the US6 gene was shown to downregulate the transporter associated with antigen processing 1 (TAP1), TAP2 and Tapasin molecules. The results show that PRV pUS6 may participate in virus immune escape by directly regulating the SLA I, TAP dimer and Tapasin molecules, thus blocking the transportation of TAP-bound peptides to the ER to bind SLA I molecules. We provide a theoretical basis on the mechanism of TAP mediated immune escape by the PRV. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research paper discusses security issues with current deployments of Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) and Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition Systems (SCADA) in the industry and proposes a solution that enables PLC devices to query a blockchain infrastructure for commands and setpoints. The blockchain assumes a dual role in this context: serving as an immutable audit trail database as well as a trusted source for critical commands and setpoints. In contrast to the conventional paradigm, this novel approach does not require write access at the PLC level, thus minimizes its attack surface and helping to protect against known and zero-day vulnerabilities often used in cyberwarfare, such as in the case of the notorious Stuxnet worm. Applications that enforce the logging of user operations for Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) or compliance purposes use the blockchain network as an audit trail database for user actions. Any attempt to maliciously circumvent the logging operation would not affect the operation of a critical process. Additionally, a prototype implementation developed as part of this research finds that modern PLC devices are more than capable of interacting with private Ethereum blockchain nodes. The required libraries and user code consume a small percentage of available resources, while the duration of a complete request-response cycle measured around 22msec. The authors anticipate that PLCBlox can be used as a drop-in replacement for applications requiring higher security standards and logging enforcement, such as nuclear power plants or other critical infrastructure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Social & Technology / Jurnal Sosial dan Teknologi (SOSTECH) is the property of Green Publisher and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Mechanical & Electronic Control Engineering is the property of Omniscient Pte. Ltd. and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Mechanical & Electronic Control Engineering is the property of Omniscient Pte. Ltd. and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Mechanical & Electronic Control Engineering is the property of Omniscient Pte. Ltd. and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Mechanical & Electronic Control Engineering is the property of Omniscient Pte. Ltd. and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Mechanical & Electronic Control Engineering is the property of Omniscient Pte. Ltd. and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Ampakines—positive allosteric modulators of AMPA-type glutamate receptors (AMPARs)—are drug candidates that have shown substantial promise in pre-clinical models of various neurodegenerative and neuropsychiatric diseases. Much of the study of ampakines has focused on how these drugs modulate neuronal AMPARs to achieve certain therapeutic effects. However, astrocytes also express functional AMPARs and their physiology may be sensitive to modulation by ampakines. Herein, we investigate the effects of multiple ampakines on calcium levels in cortical astrocytes. We find that ampakines augment cytosolic calcium elevations in astrocytes to an extent far greater than that achieved by AMPA alone. This effect is amenable to competitive AMPAR blockade. Furthermore, calcium induction is sensitive to phospholipase Cβ antagonism and blockade of inositol triphosphate receptors located on the endoplasmic reticulum. Low-impact ampakines exerted weaker effects on cytosolic calcium levels in astrocytes and higher concentrations were required to observe an effect. Furthermore, high doses of the low-impact ampakine, CX717, were not toxic to cortical astrocytes at high concentrations, which may serve to differentiate low-impact ampakines from classical AMPAR positive modulators like cyclothiazide. As ampakines are further developed for clinical use, it would be prudent to determine the extent to and manner by which they affect astrocytes, as these effects may also underpin their therapeutic utility in CNS pathologies.

This community service aims to improve the social competence of school principals through transformational leadership training to encourage professional learning communities in the Volatility, Uncertainty, Complexity, and Ambiguity era. The method used in this community service used an IGROW- based coaching approach. The target participants of the training consisted of principals and vice principals of vocational schools in Ponorogo District who were accompanied by coaches from the field of education management with expertise in transformational leadership and educational organizations. The evaluation of this training was conducted using questionnaires. The data collected from these instruments were then analyzed using descriptive statistics. The results of this activity showed that this transformational leadership model training was carried out well and smoothly so that the targets and outcomes of this community service activity could be achieved. Participants were active in conveying and elaborating on the leadership problems faced in their schools. The analysis of the training implementation evaluation data showed that principals were highest in applying the inspirational motivation aspect of transformational leadership. This aspect of inspirational motivation could include the principal's ability to inspire and motivate staff and teachers to achieve the school's vision and goals. This indicates the importance of the principal's role in fostering a positive work environment and motivating their team to achieve better.

This study presents the design and implementation of a control system for a Pin-on-Disc wear testing machine using a Programmable Logic Controller (PLC). The novel approach employed involves adjusting the applied pressure on the pin, rather than the conventional method of altering weights, to evaluate the impact of varying loads on the wear rate. This method enhanced the accuracy of wear results by 25% compared to traditional techniques. The control system was developed and implemented with a Human-Machine Interface (HMI) that interacts with the PLC to control and monitor key parameters, including applied load, temperature, rotational speed, sliding time, and friction force. Key wear parameters such as the coefficient of friction (COF), wear rate, and temperature were calculated. The wear tests were conducted under varying conditions, with rotational speeds ranging from 300 to 900 rpm, applied loads from 5 to 25 N, and sliding times from 5 to 25 minutes. The results indicated that an increase in applied load led to higher wear rates and temperatures, while the COF decreased. Conversely, an increase in rotational speed reduced the wear rate but increased both the COF and temperature. Prolonged sliding time resulted in higher wear rates and temperatures, while the COF decreased. Additionally, it was observed that the wear rate of the aluminum alloy AA6061 was higher than that of the CK45 steel alloy. The study utilized various software tools, including AutoCAD 2018, SoMove AC Drive Software, EcoStruxure Machine V1.2 VP1, Vijeo Designer 6.2, Ifs – Conf RTD, and MATLAB.

This conceptual analysis paper discusses the characteristics of teacher leadership (TL) in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education, presenting benefits for its development within the professional learning communities (PLCs). We describe our STEM education approach and argue that TL in STEM is different and more complex than leadership in any particular discipline. We compare two pathways for STEM learning and professional development (PD): engineering design approach and modeling approach. Then, we answer two research questions pertaining to the characteristics of STEM teacher leaders' (TLRs) knowledge, dispositions, and skill set; the support TLRs need to empower STEM educators; and consequently, we discuss how PLCs can become vehicles for growing STEM TLRs and empowering teachers. When promoting integrated STEM, educators likely find themselves in an out‐of‐field teaching situation, where communication with their PLC's leaders and peers is crucial in developing epistemological multiliteracy and confidence. We elaborate on the four main characteristics of STEM PLCs: (1) collaborative nature; (2) focus on boosting teachers' pedagogical content knowledge and confidence; (3) evidence‐based decision making; and (4) advocacy for high‐quality STEM education, teacher education, and PD. Each feature serves different but complementary goals, suitable for developing and utilizing the seven dimensions of TL discussed in the literature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To address the current issues of low intelligence and accuracy in seed-sorting devices, an intelligent seed sorter was developed in this study using machine-vision technology and the lightweight YOLOv5n. The machine consisted of a transmission system, feeding system, image acquisition system, and seed screening system. A lightweight YOLOv5n model, FS-YOLOv5n, was trained using 4756 images, incorporating FasterNet, Local Convolution (PConv), and a squeeze-and-excitation (SE) attention mechanism to improve feature extraction efficiency, detection accuracy, and reduce redundancy. Taking 'Zhengdan 958' corn seeds as the research object, a quality identification and seed sorting test was conducted on six test groups (each consisting of 1000 seeds) using the FS-YOLOv5n model. Following lightweight improvements, the machine showed an 81% reduction in parameters and floating-point operations compared to baseline models. The intelligent seed sorter achieved an average sorting rate of 90.76%, effectively satisfying the seed-sorting requirements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Kitchen waste is composed of complex and diverse ingredients with a variety of organic matter and inorganic salts, which is perishable and foul-smelling under high temperature conditions in summer. To reduce the deterioration rate of kitchen waste in the collection and storage process and cool down the kitchen waste in community residences for short time before treatment, the intelligent temperature- controlled dustbin was designed based on the fan-pad cooling device. Several temperature sensors were distributed inside the dustbin and controlled by Siemens PLC. The execution conditions of the fan-pad cooling device were programmed, and the PID algorithm was used for software optimization, while the data was visualized by touch screen. The intelligent control of the fan-pad cooling system was realized to maintain the internal temperature of the dustbin in the set range, and the system debugging and test verification were conducted. The results show that the detection error of the intelligent temperature control system is less than 0.5 °C, which meets the accuracy requirements. When the outdoor temperature is as high as 35 °C, the average temperature in the dustbin can be maintained at about 25 °C, which meets the constant temperature storage requirements of kitchen waste. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ampakines—positive allosteric modulators of AMPA-type glutamate receptors (AMPARs)—are drug candidates that have shown substantial promise in pre-clinical models of various neurodegenerative and neuropsychiatric diseases. Much of the study of ampakines has focused on how these drugs modulate neuronal AMPARs to achieve certain therapeutic effects. However, astrocytes also express functional AMPARs and their physiology may be sensitive to modulation by ampakines. Herein, we investigate the effects of multiple ampakines on calcium levels in cortical astrocytes. We find that ampakines augment cytosolic calcium elevations in astrocytes to an extent far greater than that achieved by AMPA alone. This effect is amenable to competitive AMPAR blockade. Furthermore, calcium induction is sensitive to phospholipase Cβ antagonism and blockade of inositol triphosphate receptors located on the endoplasmic reticulum. Low-impact ampakines exerted weaker effects on cytosolic calcium levels in astrocytes and higher concentrations were required to observe an effect. Furthermore, high doses of the low-impact ampakine, CX717, were not toxic to cortical astrocytes at high concentrations, which may serve to differentiate low-impact ampakines from classical AMPAR positive modulators like cyclothiazide. As ampakines are further developed for clinical use, it would be prudent to determine the extent to and manner by which they affect astrocytes, as these effects may also underpin their therapeutic utility in CNS pathologies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study designs and builds a PLC application to optimize the dynamic braking process of a three-phase induction motor for safer and more efficient operation. The application monitors the motor braking system and calculates the braking time through a computer. The method used is experimental, aimed at designing a PLC application as a motor braking system utilizing the dynamic braking method. The braking system employs a PLC as the control system. To achieve dynamic braking, the stator coil of the motor receives an injection of direct current (DC) from a directed power source. The observed variables in this testing include the injected DC current value and the duration of the injection time. The test results demonstrate that the implementation of the PLC in the dynamic braking of a three-phase induction motor effectively calculates the motor braking time and monitors the braking process. In the dynamic braking test with a DC current injection of 0.5 A, an average stopping time of 2.63 seconds was recorded. With a DC current injection of 0.75 A, the average stopping time was 2.13 seconds. At a DC current injection of 1 A, the average stopping time decreased to 1.83 seconds, and at 1.2 A, it further decreased to 1.63 seconds. These results indicate that the motor stopping time is influenced by the magnitude of the injected current, with higher currents resulting in shorter stopping times. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Indian Railway network is the world's fourth largest, transporting millions of people every day. One of the most difficult challenges for travelers is crossing the overhead bridges or subways to reach the right platform. To make this experience more comfortable we have developed the automatic system termed Railway Platform Crossing Automatic Bridge (RPCAB) to connect two opposite platforms. Here, the fabricated metal frame bridge is moved using a pair of double acting hydraulically/ pneumatically actuated telescopic cylinders. After the train pulls out of the station, the bridge connects to the other side of the platform, allowing passengers to walk on the bridge to cross the tracks. The position sensors, alarms, audio/visual indicators, and actuators are all in sync with the train traffic signaling system and the master controller, a Programmable Logic Controller (PLC). To prevent any mishaps from happening, a comprehensive safety interlock system has been implemented, including position sensors, safety barricades, emergency alarms, and an audio-visual information system. The proposed mechanical bridge facilitates the passage for the passengers who are physically impaired, with heavy luggage, pregnant women, and the elderly persons to cross the platform. Additionally, it controls the congestion of passengers when the train has left the station. The proposed system is simulated using PLC simulator for testing, validation, and analysis of the system's behavior in a simulated environment. The simulation results presented in this paper show how efficient and reliable the proposed design is. Prior to constructing a working prototype in real time, it is essential to put the system through a virtual environment. The results support the viability of applying the proposed design in real-world settings, which will improve both safety and efficiency at railway platform crossings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The following document details an electrohydraulic servo actuator system with Internet of Things (IoT) functionalities, highlighting its main components: control electronics, the servo amplifier, the power supply, the servo valve, the hydraulic actuator, and the feedback transducer. The system utilizes a twodegree-of-freedom (2- DOF) controller and IoT integration for monitoring and preventive maintenance. The system implementation is done using a Modicon M221 PLC and a Raspberry Pi single-board computer for the local server and monitoring. The conclusions emphasize the improvement of remote monitoring and system parameterization, suggesting future research directions for the development of cloud-based business models. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The prevalence of Clostridium perfringens spores in the environment is crucial for the pathogenesis of this bacterium because these dormant spores, upon contact with a suitable host, can return to active growth to cause disease. We evaluated the prevalence of C. perfringens spores in the Hail and Qassim regions of Saudi Arabia. Methods: A plating method was used to identify C. perfringens. PCR analyses and DNA sequencing were performed for genotypic characterization of the newly isolated C. perfringens.25 of 300 collected samples were identified as C. perfringens by selecting black colonies on selective media and monitoring b-hemolysis on blood agar plate. PCR analyses showed that all 25 isolates carry a-toxin gene (plc), but not the enterotoxin gene (cpe), further confirming that these isolates are indeed cpe-negative. Genome sequencing found that Saudi isolates are genotypically similar to the American and European isolates; no homologues of toxinotyping genes encoding b-, i-, e- and NetB-toxin were detected in 22 Saudi isolates, with the exception of 3 isolates that carry only e-toxin gene etx. Collectively, our findings suggest that C. perfringens are highly prevalent in the Hail and Qassim environment, with 22 (88%) of 25 isolates are type A and remaining 3 (12%) are type D. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]