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Gallenene is a novel metallic 2D material that can provide a semiconducting counterpart if patterned into quasi-one-dimensional (quasi-1D) nanostructures, i.e., gallenene nanoribbons (GaNRs). We investigate semiconducting GaNRs as a potential channel material for future ultrascaled field-effect transistors (FETs) by employing quantum transport simulations based on Green's functions and tight-binding Hamiltonians with the orbital resolution calibrated on ab initio calculations. The impact of GaNR width downscaling from ∼6 nm down to ∼0.2 nm on the electronic, transport, and ballistic device properties is investigated for the FET channel length of 15 nm. We report current enhancement and injection velocity overshoot effects for sub-1.2 nm-wide nFETs and pFETs, with a maximum current increase of 53% in the 1.2 nm-wide GaNR pFET in comparison to the widest device. In addition, promising current-driving capabilities of n- and p-channel GaNR FETs are observed with top ballistic currents of more than 2.2 mA/μm and injection velocities of up to 2.4 × 107 cm/s. The reported data are explained by analyzing the evolution of band structure and related parameters such as injection velocity, quantum capacitance, effective transport mass etc., with increasing quantum confinement effects in ultranarrow GaNRs. Generally, we find that quasi-1D gallenene is a promising channel material for future nanoscale FETs, especially for transistor architectures based on stacked nanosheets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Piezoresponse Force Microscopy (PFM) is capable of detecting strains in piezoelectric materials down to the picometer range. Driven by diverse application areas, numerous weaker electromechanical materials have emerged. The smaller signals associated with them have uncovered ubiquitous crosstalk challenges that limit the accuracy of measurements and that can even mask them entirely. Previously, using an interferometric displacement sensor (IDS), we demonstrated the existence of a special spot position immediately above the tip of the cantilever, where the signal due to body-electrostatic (BES) forces is nullified. Placing the IDS detection spot at this location allows sensitive and BES artifact-free electromechanical measurements. We denote this position as x I D S / L = 1 , where x I D S is the spot position along the cantilever and L is the distance between the base and tip. Recently, a similar approach has been proposed for BES nullification for the more commonly used optical beam deflection (OBD) technique, with a different null position at x O B D / L ≈ 0.6 . In the present study, a large number of automated, sub-resonance spot position dependent measurements were conducted on periodically poled lithium niobate. In this work, both IDS and OBD responses were measured simultaneously, allowing direct comparisons of the two approaches. In these extensive measurements, for the IDS, we routinely observed x I D S / L ≈ 1 . In contrast, the OBD null position ranged over a significant fraction of the cantilever length. Worryingly, the magnitudes of the amplitudes measured at the respective null positions were typically different, often by as much as 100%. Theoretically, we explain these results by invoking the presence of both BES and in-plane forces electromechanical forces acting on the tip using an Euler–Bernoulli cantilever beam model. Notably, the IDS measurements support the electromechanical response of lithium niobate predicted with a rigorous electro-elastic model of a sharp PFM tip in the strong indentation contact limit [ d e f f ≈ 12 pm / V , Kalinin et al., Phys. Rev. B 70, 184101 (2004)]. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Understanding the ionic transport through multilayer nanoporous graphene (NPG) holds great promise for the design of novel nanofluidic devices. Bilayer NPG with different structures, such as nanopore offset and interlayer space, should be the most simple but representative multilayer NPG. In this work, we use molecular dynamics simulations to systematically investigate the ionic transport through a functionalized bilayer NPG, focusing on the effect of pore functionalization, offset, applied pressure and interlayer distance. For a small interlayer space, the fluxes of water and ions exhibit a sudden reduction to zero with the increase in offset that indicates an excellent on-off gate, which can be deciphered by the increasing potential of mean force barriers. With the increase in pressure, the fluxes increase almost linearly for small offsets while always maintain zero for large offsets. Finally, with the increase in interlayer distance, the fluxes increase drastically, resulting in the reduction in ion rejection. Notably, for a specific interlayer distance with monolayer water structure, the ion rejection maintains high levels (almost 100% for coions) with considerable water flux, which could be the best choice for desalination purpose. The dynamics of water and ions also exhibit an obvious bifurcation for cationic and anionic functionalization. Our work comprehensively addresses the ionic transport through a bilayer NPG and provides a route toward the design of novel desalination devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, we study the electronic and transport properties of phosphorene nanorings in two perpendicular directions (zigzag and armchair directions) in the presence of a zigzag metallic source and drain leads. Our results are based on the non-equilibrium Green's function method and a five-parameter tight-binding approach. We investigate how system parameters affect the electronic transport. These parameters include the radius of the rings, the width of the leads, and the external potential. Our results show that for all configurations studied, a transport energy gap exists whose size can be tuned by the width of the leads and the radius of the nanoring. The transmission function of wider leads shows more sensitivity to the variation of the inner radius due to higher electronic states that can respond to smaller changes in the scattering region. In addition, the transport along the armchair direction is more susceptible to tuning than the transport along the zigzag direction. The effects of external potentials on the conductance are more pronounced than the geometrical parameters. In particular, the circular potential of the amplitude of 0.1 eV can widen the transport gap by about ∼0.35 eV. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Deterministic spin orbit torque (SOT) magnetization switching of the perpendicular magnetic anisotropy structures requires an external magnetic field, which is unsuitable for on-chip applications. Various approaches are there to debar the external magnetic field requirement. In this work, we use static stress, which can generate a virtual magnetic field via magnetoelastic coupling. We show that this field can be used for deterministic magnetization switching. In our simulations, we use an antiferromagnetic material for generating the SOT and exchange bias field and avail the benefits of the field like torque (FLT). With the exclusion of thermal noise, this reduces the threshold current density from 114 to 36 MA/cm2, thus mitigating the energy dissipation by more than nine times. To study the effect of thermal noise, we simulate 500 trajectories and find out the switching probability. We perform simulations to study the effects of current density, stress, pulse width, and FLT on the switching probability in great details. Our simulation results show that we can get sub-ns switching with a probability of 0.99 requiring only 45.5 fJ of energy dissipation. This can be very attractive for artificial neural network kind of applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Formation flying represents a promising opportunity for next space missions, due to its benefits in cost saving, redundancy and fault tolerance given by multiple small and cheap space segments exploitation, with comparable performance of a single, large monolithic spacecraft. That is even more relevant in asteroid exploration, as the harsh environment poses great risks to the probes survival. The low, irregular gravity field, the poor knowledge of shape and composition, and the possible presence of floating particles in the surroundings suggest adopting a low-risk strategy for the exploration of these bodies, delegating proximity operations to multiple nanosatellites, while keeping the main spacecraft at safe distance. As a downside, multiple cooperating spacecraft imply advanced capabilities in accurately reconstructing the relative positions and displacements and in fixing reconfiguration manoeuvres. Moreover, whenever relative distance is very close, agents' guidance and control shall be autonomously computed by the spacecraft, as promptness of commands is not ensured relying on ground segment only. The partially unknown environment exacerbates this issue, demanding navigation and control schemes capable of withstanding potentially large uncertainties in the dynamics. If a binary system is considered, the multiple gravitational sources complicate even more the setup of the formation, requiring an accurate search and selection of operative orbits. This study will be thus defined by three different steps. First the search and development of suitable trajectories to host a reconfigurable satellite formation is carried out. Then the design of a Model Predictive on-board guidance and control law is performed to assess the capability of the spacecraft to execute successful reconfiguration transfers relying on a simplified dynamical model (namely the Circular Restricted Three-Body Problem). At the end the navigation error requirements are derived, in order to ensure the feasibility of the guidance and control scheme. Inspired by the Hera mission, this study explores the aforementioned aspects of the design of a formation for the exploration of the Didymos binary asteroid system, which comprises many complications but also challenges for many other future missions to fly in unexplored environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Research on possible scenarios of implementing AI in nanosatellite constellations. • Challenges, applications and possible strategies in Low Earth Orbits, Transfer Region and Lunar Orbits is discussed. • Several examples and major necessities have been included. • Figures portray severe issues to applications and strategic ways to adopt the AI in nanosat constraints is shown in detail. • The future prospects and ways to step-wise organize and implement AI is discussed. The small satellites have been changing the paradigm of space technology and implementation techniques ever since the NewSpace era has begun a stiff competition and dynamic atmosphere for innovation and recreation. Nanosatellites (ranging from 1 to 10 Kg) have been of significant importance since they have been launched and experimented in the past few decades. The constellations of these satellites will be a test of technology and management in due course of time. The complexity of operations and skilled functioning of the satellites in LEO and beyond is becoming crucial for the space industry and scientific communities. This paper will demonstrate the challenges, applications, and strategies to implement Artificial Intelligence (AI) optimally to make these constellations efficient and productive under the given scenarios and constraints. A thorough investigation through literature study has been initially done to observe and monitor the recent developments and envision the futuristic implementation of cognitive computing in CisLunar space. Hence, a detailed description of strategizing this artificial intelligence implementation in three classified regions as Low Earth Orbits (LEO), Transfer Region (TR), and Lunar Orbits (LO) to emphasize their crucial role in operating nanosatellites is significantly presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The miniaturization and low power consumption characteristics of RF MEMS (Radio Frequency Microelectromechanical System) switches provide new possibilities for the development of microsatellites and nanosatellites, which will play an increasingly important role in future space missions. This paper provides a comprehensive review of RF MEMS switches in satellite communication, detailing their working mechanisms, performance optimization strategies, and applications in reconfigurable antennas. It explores various driving mechanisms (electrostatic, piezoelectric, electromagnetic, thermoelectric) and contact mechanisms (capacitive, ohmic), highlighting their advantages, challenges, and advancements. The paper emphasizes strategies to enhance switch reliability and RF performance, including minimizing the impact of shocks, reducing driving voltage, improving contacts, and appropriate packaging. Finally, it discusses the enormous potential of RF MEMS switches in future satellite communications, addressing their technical advantages, challenges, and the necessity for further research to optimize design and manufacturing for broader applications and increased efficiency in space missions. The research findings of this review can serve as a reference for further design and improvement of RF MEMS switches, which are expected to play a more important role in future aerospace communication systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nanosatellites are proliferating as low-cost, dedicated remote sensing opportunities for small nations. However, nanosatellites' performance as remote sensing platforms is impaired by low downlink speeds, which typically range from 1200 to 9600 bps. Additionally, an estimated 67% of downloaded data are unusable for further applications due to excess cloud cover. To alleviate this issue, we propose an image segmentation and prioritization algorithm to classify and segment the contents of captured images onboard the nanosatellite. This algorithm prioritizes images with clear captures of water bodies and vegetated areas with high downlink priority. This in-orbit organization of images will aid ground station operators with downlinking images suitable for further ground-based remote sensing analysis. The proposed algorithm uses Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) models to classify and segment captured image data. In this study, we compare various model architectures and backbone designs for segmentation and assess their performance. The models are trained on a dataset that simulates captured data from nanosatellites and transferred to the satellite hardware to conduct inferences. Ground testing for the satellite has achieved a peak Mean IoU of 75% and an F1 Score of 0.85 for multi-class segmentation. The proposed algorithm is expected to improve data budget downlink efficiency by up to 42% based on validation testing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Multidimensional microdriving stage is one of the key components to realize precision driving and high-precision positioning. To meet nanometer displacement and positioning in the fields of micro-/nano-machining and precision testing, a new six-degree-of-freedom microdriving stage (6-DOF-MDS) of multilayer spatially distributed piezoelectric ceramic actuators (PZTs) is proposed and designed. The interior of the 6-DOF-MDS is a hollow design. The flexure hinge is used as the transmission mechanism, and the series–parallel hybrid driving of the corresponding PZTs achieves the microtranslation in the X, Y, and Z directions and the microrotation around the three axes of the microdriving stage, forming a microdisplacement mechanism with high rigidity and simple structure, which can realize the microfeed of 6-DOF. The force–displacement theory and lug boss structure optimization of the 6-DOF-MDS are analyzed, while the strength checking and natural frequency of the 6-DOF-MDS are also simulated by the finite element method. In addition, the real-time motion control system of the 6-DOF-MDS is designed based on Advanced RISC Machines. Through a series of verification experiments, the stroke and resolution results of the 6-DOF-MDS are obtained, where the displacements in the X, Y, and Z directions are 20.72, 20.02, and 37.60 μm, respectively. The resolution is better than 0.68 nm. The rotation angles around X, Y, and Z are 38.96″, 33.80″, and 27.87″, respectively, with an angular resolution of 0.063″. Relevant coupling experiments were also performed in this paper; in the full stroke linear running of X-axis, the maximum coupling displacements of the Y- and Z-axes are 1.04 and 0.17 μm, respectively, with the corresponding coupling rates of ∼5.0% and 0.8%. The maximum coupling angles for the X-, Y-, and Z-axes are 0.33″, 0.14″, and 2.30″, respectively. Considering the coupling of the 6-DOF-MDS, decoupling measures and specific mathematical models have also been proposed. The proposed multidimensional microdriving stage achieves subnanometer resolution and can be used for the precise positioning and attitude control of precision instruments at the nano-/subnanometer level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dynamic behaviors of delaminated nanofilms on substrates are universal and essential phenomena in nanoelectromechanical systems (NEMS). Van der Waals (vdWs) interactions play an important role in the dynamic behaviors of delaminated nanofilms on substrates due to the interaction distances at nanoscale or even sub-nanoscale in NEMS. Therefore, it is interesting yet challenging to reveal the effect of intermolecular vdWs interactions on dynamic behaviors of delaminated nanofilms on substrates. By considering sub-nanoscale dynamic boundary effects induced by intermolecular vdWs interactions, a parametric excitation nonlinear vibration model for dynamic behaviors of delaminated nanofilms partly bonded on substrates is established. Effects of sub-nanoscale vdWs dynamic boundaries on transient and steady-state responses of dynamically delaminated nanofilms on substrates are analyzed. The sub-nanoscale vdWs dynamic boundaries lead the dynamic responses of delaminated-nanofilm/substrate systems very sensitive to initial conditions. The bending and shifting frequency response results demonstrated that the system nonlinearities can be greatly amplified by the sub-nanoscale vdWs dynamic boundary effect. Moreover, the spontaneous symmetry breaking and violent interfacial tearing/healing phenomena can be also triggered in the systems. Based on spontaneous symmetry breaking, a trans-scale relationship between nanofilm equilibrium positions and intermolecular vdWs interactions is established, which can provide a promising route for trans-scale measurements of molecular scale interfacial interactions. The work can also be helpful for the dynamic design of resonant NEMS devices based on nanofilm/substrate systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The governing equations for nanosensor beams have been modified. The non-local strain gradient effect is considered. • An accurate depiction of the performance of a system considering the influence of Casimir force. • Analytical and numerical methods can characterise thermal vibration and buckling. • Various factors have been investigated to examine the impact on magneto-electro-elastic nanosensors. • Research and analysis can provide valuable insights that can lead to substantial benefits in various fields. The governing equations of the nanosensor beams have been modified to account for the non-local strain gradient effect, which considers the impact of material microstructure to capture the size-dependent behavior of the beams accurately. Additionally, surface and Casimir forces, which result from the interaction between the nanosensor beam and its environment, are deemed to be a precise representation of the system's performance on the nanoscale. The mechanical response of nanoscale structures is significantly influenced by intermolecular forces, which encompass van der Waals interactions and are therefore considered in the analysis. The present study employs analytical and numerical techniques to examine the interdependent influence of multiple factors on the thermal vibration and buckling behavior of magneto-electro-elastic functionally graded higher-order nanosensor beams. The investigation provides essential insights into the behavior of these very complex nanosensors in a variety of operational settings, and it also adds to the improvement of their configuration and effectiveness. The findings of this work contribute to a better knowledge of the intricate behavior of nanostructures and have relevant implications for the development of high-capacity nanosensor devices in a wide variety of sectors, such as biological sensing, environmental monitoring, and structural health monitoring devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, an experimental exploration was conducted on a surface-modified fuel stack radiator to examine the heat transfer rate with nanofluids. The inner and outer surfaces of the fins and the outer surface of the tube were roughened using a shot blasting process. Nanofluids were formulated with different volume fractions, including 0.05, 0.15, and 0.3% of functionalized graphene nanoplatelets (FGNPs) dispersed in a water/ethylene glycol mixture (45:55 by volume). A remarkable improvement in thermal conductivity, enhancement up to 10.2%, was observed at 0.3 vol % of FGNPs, specifically at 50 °C. An impressive 85.3% enhancement in CHTC is observed at 40 °C inlet temperature, and MFR of 0.057 kg s–1 and 93.11% at 50 °C is noted with a loading concentration of 0.3 vol % of FGNPs. Nusselt number is enhanced by 67.07% at 40 °C and 74.12% at 50 °C. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper is aimed at performing a comprehensive review of the approaches employed in nanosatellite platforms, specifically 1 U and 3 U, for electrical power systems (EPS). Moreover, it seeks to develop a robust maximum power point tracking (MPPT) controller using the sliding mode control (SMC) method. The proposed control strategy is intended to monitor the solar panel's maximum power point (MPP) and adapt to changes in temperatures and solar irradiance in low Earth orbit (LEO). The EPS model, designed with the proposed sizing method, is built in MATLAB-Simulink and integrates a solar panel, battery storage, and power converters controlled by diverse MPPT methods. Then, simulation results demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed SMC approach compared to other conventional control methods for the designed EPS under varying LEO conditions. To achieve a robust validation of the most appropriate MPPT control method under steady-state conditions, this paper presents an experimental investigation into the proposed EPS hardware design. The proposed SMC method achieved an increase in power generation from 10% to 12% for buck and boost power converters, respectively, compared to traditional control methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Halide solid electrolytes, known for their high ionic conductivity at room temperature and good oxidative stability, face notable challenges in all–solid–state Li–ion batteries (ASSBs), especially with unstable cathode/solid electrolyte (SE) interface and increasing interfacial resistance during cycling. In this work, we have developed an Al3+–doped, cation–disordered epitaxial nanolayer on the LiCoO2 surface by reacting it with an artificially constructed AlPO4 nanoshell; this lithium–deficient layer featuring a rock–salt–like phase effectively suppresses oxidative decomposition of Li3InCl6 electrolyte and stabilizes the cathode/SE interface at 4.5 V. The ASSBs with the halide electrolyte Li3InCl6 and a high–loading LiCoO2 cathode demonstrated high discharge capacity and long cycling life from 3 to 4.5 V. Our findings emphasize the importance of specialized cathode surface modification in preventing SE degradation and achieving stable cycling of halide–based ASSBs at high voltages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polyphenol contained polymers were developed to form a nanocoating on the surface of tumor cells to block their key metabolite transport processes for tumor treatment, while suppressing metastasis and invasion, providing a promising anticancer candidate with a mechanism by impeding the mass transport of tumor cells. [Display omitted] The metabolite transport inhibition of tumor cells holds promise to achieve anti-tumor efficacy. Herein, we presented an innovative strategy to hinder the delivery of metabolites through the in-situ besieging tumor cells with polyphenolic polymers that strongly adhere to the cytomembrane of tumor cells. Simultaneously, these polymers underwent self-crosslinking under the induction of tumor oxidative stress microenvironment to form an adhesive coating on the surface of the tumor cells. This polyphenol coating effectively obstructed glucose uptake, reducing metabolic products such as lactic acid, glutathione, and adenosine triphosphate, while also causing reactive oxygen species to accumulate in the tumor cells. The investigation of various tumor models, including 2D cells, 3D multicellular tumor spheroids, and xenograft tumors, demonstrated that the polyphenolic polymers effectively inhibited the growth of tumor cells by blocking key metabolite transport processes. Moreover, this highly adhesive coating could bind tumor cells to suppress their metastasis and invasion. This work identified polyphenolic polymers as a promising anticancer candidate with a mechanism by impeding the mass transport of tumor cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Halide solid electrolytes, known for their high ionic conductivity at room temperature and good oxidative stability, face notable challenges in all–solid–state Li–ion batteries (ASSBs), especially with unstable cathode/solid electrolyte (SE) interface and increasing interfacial resistance during cycling. In this work, we have developed an Al3+–doped, cation–disordered epitaxial nanolayer on the LiCoO2 surface by reacting it with an artificially constructed AlPO4 nanoshell; this lithium–deficient layer featuring a rock–salt–like phase effectively suppresses oxidative decomposition of Li3InCl6 electrolyte and stabilizes the cathode/SE interface at 4.5 V. The ASSBs with the halide electrolyte Li3InCl6 and a high–loading LiCoO2 cathode demonstrated high discharge capacity and long cycling life from 3 to 4.5 V. Our findings emphasize the importance of specialized cathode surface modification in preventing SE degradation and achieving stable cycling of halide–based ASSBs at high voltages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cubosomes are the aqueous dispersions of lipid-based liquid-crystalline bi-continuous phases, with the inner structure comprised of triply periodic, non-intersecting, curved, bilayers folded in cubic symmetry, and are organized to form two disjoined continuous water channels on an infinite periodic minimal surface. This review emphasized the peer findings about history and origin of cubosomes, including preparation, characterization and evaluation techniques, along with its promising features as a bio-therapeutics biodegradable cargo nano-material in descriptive manner. The structures of cubosomes, e.g. Q223, Q227, Q212, Q230 etc. are discussed here reflecting their versatile applicability. The automated cubosome preparation method in addition to the general preparation methods and assessment of cubosomes with the aid of both, ordinary visual characterization as well as sophisticated instruments like cryo-TEM, Cryo-FESEM, SAXS, LUMiFuge® have been described. Physical parameter's quantification approves the drug-carriers system fit in therapeutics, i.e stability analysis, permeation, entrapment efficiency (EE), loading capacity (LC), drug content of dispersions, in-vitro drug release studies, HPLC analysis, in-vivo studies, etc., which are framed here in detail. Cubosomes owes the versatility and desired characteristic of a nanoparticle for drug delivery and other biomedical applications. Therefore, we have described here the up to date wide area applications of cubosomes administered through various routes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nanofluidic diodes and ionic solutions find application in electrochemical circuits for information processing, controlled release, and signal conversion in hybrid devices. Here, we describe a physical model that accounts for the memory effects observed in conical nanopores in terms of the driving signal and ionic solution characteristics. The concepts invoked describe the device operation on the basis of the electrical interaction between the pore surface charges and the nanoconfined ionic solution. The physical insights provided can explain the experimental dependence of the nanofluidic tunability on the amplitude and frequency of the driving signal, the ionic concentration, and the solution pH. The model should also be useful for the design of electrochemical circuits based on ionic conduction in asymmetric memristors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • A 3D soft-rigid PVDF@SnO 2 nanofiber layer is electrospun on copper current collector. • The soft nanofiber layers realize uniform Li+ flux and dendrite-free Li deposition. • Rigid SnO 2 offers abundant Li+ nucleation sites and promotes highly stable SEI layer. • Nanofiber flexible skeleton can accommodate and mitigate electrode volume expansion. • Such soft-rigid nanofiber layers account for prolonged cycle life of Li metal cells. Lithium (Li) metal is regarded as the most desirable anode candidates for high-energy–density batteries by virtue of its lowest redox potential and ultrahigh theoretical specific capacity. However, uncontrollable Li dendritic growth, infinite volume variation and unstable solid electrolyte interface (SEI) ineluctably plague its commercialization process. Herein, the three-dimensional (3D) nanofiber functional layers with synergistic soft-rigid feature, consisting of tin oxide (SnO 2)-anchored polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) nanofibers, are directly electrospun on copper current collector. This strategy can effectively regulate uniform Li deposition and strengthen SEI stability through the dual effect of physical accommodation and chemical ionic intervention. On the one hand, the nanofiber interlayers with excellent electrolyte affinity and well-distributed Li+ transport pathways can promote uniform Li+ flux distribution and large-size Li deposition. On the other hand, the rigid SnO 2 contributes to reducing Li nucleation overpotential and stabilizing SEI layer assisted by its spontaneous reaction with Li. As a result, the smooth and dense Li deposition is achieved by such soft-rigid nanofiber interlayers, thereby extending the cycling life and improving the safety application of Li metal batteries. This work offers a new route for efficient protection of Li metal anodes and brings a new inspiration for developing high-energy–density Li metal batteries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The space community is moving forward with the development of in-orbit servicing and removal technologies to enable the circular economy in space and improve future space missions' scientific and commercial return and space environment exploitation. The application of nanosatellites to carry out proximity operations presents an additional opportunity to support various novel and cost-effective distributed mission architectures. The SpEye CubeSat mission, funded by the Agenzia Spaziale Italiana in the framework of the Alcor Program, aims at demonstrating inspection and rendezvous guidance navigation and control capabilities of a nanosatellite in close-proximity of the satellite carrier in a low Earth orbit environment. This paper focuses on the design of the SpEye mission and on the guidance and control strategies to enable its technological demonstrations. Particular attention is placed on the safety aspects of trajectory design, considered of paramount importance for the robust autonomous operations of a low-cost CubeSat in proximity to another satellite. • CubeSat mission for proximity operations demonstration. • In-orbit experiments applicable to the In-Orbit Servicing (IOS) and Active Debris Removal (ADR) domains. • Mission design and ConOps of a nanosatellite mission released by a carrier for proximity operations purposes. • Safe inspection design considering the optimisation of information cost metric. • Close range rendezvous solved with sequential convex programming and with enhanced safety applied. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the mechanisms of jet atomization were analyzed based on a frequency analysis of atomization sounds in the audible range (∼20 kHz). Jet atomization is a two-dimensional, high-speed atomization using a diaphragm, and interesting acoustic signals and atomization phenomena were detected on hydrophobic and hydrophilic diaphragms. The hydrophilic diaphragm strongly interacted and resonated with the surface wave, resulting in symmetrical jet atomization relative to the diaphragm. The resonance between the diaphragm and the surface wave was supported by a calculation of the eigenfrequency of the diaphragm and the coincidence of the droplet diameters as calculated from Lang's equation. Notably, the diaphragm excited by the ultrasonic transducer acted as a new transducer vibrating perpendicular to the transducer. As a result, when the diaphragm and the surface wave were in resonance at 2.4 MHz, a symmetrical two-dimensional high-speed jet atomization was generated in the direction perpendicular to the transducer's vibration direction. This study also revealed that the atomization state can be determined based on the acoustic analysis. This acoustic analysis of atomization sounds can be applied in more advanced atomization control, such as for providing uniform dispersions of droplets containing DNA, drugs, or microplastics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this investigation is to arrange partial differential equations (PDEs) into simplified form for gradients (mass and thermal) in the inclined magneto hydrodynamic flow of hybrid (CuO–TiO2/Water) nanoliquid in a permeable media. The modeled term is extremely nonlinear with the boundary conditions. So, this research focuses on numerical solution by using bvp4c solver in MATLAB software and by applying similarity transformation. Simulations have been done to discover the dynamics of stream and the transport of heat and mass under parametric deviation. To examine the impact of a temperature gradient on the transport of mass and the role of a concentration gradient on the transport of heat energy, outcomes have been documented in tabular form and shown through graphs. Remarkable changes in motion, temperature and concentration are noted when Dufour and Soret numbers vary. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper considers a process of a controlled attitude motion of a dual-spin nanosatellite. The main goal of control is to achieve a gravitationally stabilized position in a circular orbit in the shortest possible time. The dual-spin nanosatellite contains a gravitational damper and an internal rotor inside a movable unit. The movable unit can fulfill small controlled inclination relative to the main body of the nanosatellite. The mathematical model of the attitude dynamics of the nanosatellite is built and appropriate control laws are developed. Simulation results confirm the performance of the gravitational damper and efficiency of the control algorithm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Candidate drugs targeting the central nervous system (CNS) demonstrate extremely low clinical success rates, with more than 98% of potential treatments being discontinued due to poor blood–brain barrier (BBB) permeability. Neurological conditions were shown to be the second leading cause of death globally in 2016, with the number of people currently affected by neurological disorders increasing rapidly. This increasing trend, along with an inability to develop BBB permeating drugs, is presenting a major hurdle in the treatment of CNS‐related disorders, like dementia. To overcome this, it is necessary to understand the structure and function of the BBB, including the transport of molecules across its interface in both healthy and pathological conditions. The use of CNS drug carriers is rapidly gaining popularity in CNS research due to their ability to target BBB transport systems. Further research and development of drug delivery vehicles could provide essential information that can be used to develop novel treatments for neurological conditions. This review discusses the BBB and its transport systems and evaluates the potential of using nanoparticle‐based delivery systems as drug carriers for CNS disease with a focus on dementia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Photothermal catalytic CO2 hydrogenation holds great promise for relieving the global environment and energy crises. The "nano‐greenhouse effect" has been recognized as a crucial strategy for improving the heat management capabilities of a photothermal catalyst by ameliorating the convective and radiative heat losses. Yet it remains unclear to what degree the respective heat transfer and mass transport efficiencies depend on the specific structures. Herein, the structure‐function relationship of the "nano‐greenhouse effect" was investigated and optimized in a prototypical Ni@SiO2 core‐shell catalyst towards photothermal CO2 catalysis. Experimental and theoretical results indicate that modulation of the thickness and porosity of the SiO2 nanoshell leads to variations in both heat preservation and mass transport properties. This work deepens the understandings on the contributing factor of the "nano‐greenhouse effect" towards enhanced photothermal conversion. It also provides insights on the design principles of an ideal photothermal catalyst in balancing heat management and mass transport processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gas transport under confinement exhibits a plethora of physical and chemical phenomena that differ from those observed in bulk media, owing to the deviations of continuum description at the molecular level. In biological systems, gas channels play indispensable roles in various physiological functions by regulating gas transport across cell membranes. Therefore, investigating gas transport under such confinement is crucial for comprehending cellular physiological activities. Moreover, leveraging these underlying mechanisms can enable the construction of bioinspired artificial nanofluidic devices with tailored gas transport properties akin to those found in biological channels. This review provides a comprehensive summary of confined gas transport mechanisms, focusing on the unique effects arising from nanoconfinement. Additionally, we categorize nanoconfinement spaces based on dimensionality to elucidate their control over gas transport behavior. Finally, we highlight the potential of bioinspired smart gas membranes that mimic precise modulation of transportation observed in organisms. To conclude, we present a concise outlook on the challenges and opportunities in this rapidly expanding field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Over the past 40 years, the significance of microzooplankton grazing in oceanic carbon cycling has been highlighted with the help of dilution experiments. The ecologically relevant Western Antarctic Peninsula (WAP) ecosystem in the Southern Ocean (SO), however, has not been well studied. Here we present data from dilution experiments, performed at three stations around the northern tip of the WAP to determine grazing rates of small zooplankton (hetero- and mixotrophic members of the 0.2–200 µm size fraction, SZP) on auto- and heterotrophic members of the < 200 µm plankton community as well as their gross growth. While variable impacts of SZP grazing on carbon cycling were measured, particulate organic carbon, not the traditionally used parameter chlorophyll a, provided the best interpretable results. Our results suggested that heterotrophic picoplankton played a significant role in the carbon turnover at all stations. Finally, a comparison of two stations with diverging characteristics highlights that SZP grazing eliminated 56–119% of gross particulate organic carbon production from the particulate fraction. Thus, SZP grazing eliminated 20–50 times more carbon from the particulate fraction compared to what was exported to depth, therefore significantly affecting the efficiency of the biological carbon pump at these SO sites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Small satellite missions and technology development presents a unique platform for preparing undergraduate engineering students for future careers. University based small satellite projects provide students access to hands-on opportunities to apply theory learned in classes through computational analysis, hardware experimentation, and product design. They also allow students to gain project management skills and see systems engineering and design life cycle from a perspective few semesters long courses and lectures can provide. Since 2017, undergraduates have been involved in the Purdue University team investigating the Film Evaporation MEMS Tunable Array (FEMTA), a novel microthruster that evaporates ultra-pure deionized water to generate thrust and is intended for use as active attitude control on small satellites. This technology development project is well suited for including undergraduates, as the system operation can be easily understood by a student with only an introductory understanding of fluid mechanics. Undergraduates initially investigated single axis rotation control of a model CubeSat and now focus a suborbital payload to test the propellant management system. Undergraduates earn degree credit for aiding the faculty and graduate students in this long-term, multidisciplinary, and vertically-integrated – including students from freshmen to seniors -research project team. Vertically integrating allows students to participate for their entire undergraduate studies, while providing projects with stability and a knowledge base shared amongst many students. While this method can be applied to projects that are not aerospace related, small satellite projects allow students to add a breadth and depth of subject matter to their professional development. This project has included mechanical engineers, aerospace engineers, electrical and computer engineers, and computer science majors. This environment grants students the ability to learn new perspectives and problem-solving techniques from their peers. By requiring students to earn degree credit for project work, students become more invested and develop better professional habits such as proper documentation and communication. Student testimonials have cited this project as an asset while talking with company recruiters and for graduate school applications. The same methods developed on the FEMTA project are also being applied to the Purdue student team that is developing the camera system for the NASA Solar Cruiser mission, with similar success. • Applying the Vertically Integrated Projects method on a small satellite student • Enrollment statistics for undergraduate small satellite research project • Undergraduate student longevity on team research projects • Project based learning through vertically integration in aerospace engineering [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper explains the importance and benefits of using AI in fluid mechanics, emphasizing its capability of finding the solution of fluid flow systems through iterative optimization techniques. It explores how AI can enhance the understanding of fluid dynamics to improve engineering processes. In the presented studies, the heat and mass transport of the Casson nanofluidic flow model on a nonlinear slanted extending sheet (HMT‐CNFM) via AI‐based Levenberg Marquard methodology with backpropagated trained neural networks (TNN‐BLMM) is studied. By applying an appropriate transformation, the governing PDEs representing HMT‐CNFM are converted into a system of nonlinear ODEs. The dataset for Levenberg Marquard methodology with backpropagated trained neural network (TNN‐BLMM) for all six scenarios of this proposed model via computational power of the Lobatto IIIA scheme using the "bvp4c" package in MATLAB and then graphically illustrate all these six scenarios through nftool to attain mean square error, regression, error histogram, performance, and fit curve. Training, testing, and validation processes of NN‐BLMM are organized for the investigation of the HMT‐CNFM model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Silicon nanomembrane (SiNM) has drawn great attention for the application in nanoelectrical devices as it shows excellent flexibility and is compatible with the integrated circuit process. The mechanical property measurement of the SiNM with nanoscale thickness is critical. A suspended SiNM (40 nm thick) for mechanical measurements is fabricated by transferring a chemically etched ultrathin monocrystalline silicon film from silicon on insulator wafer to a substrate with a multi‐hole array. And then, the atomic force probe is utilized to load force on the free‐standing SiNM to obtain a force deflection curve, and then the Young's modulus of such floating SiNM can be directly calculated based on the large deflection plane model. It shows that the Young's modulus of such SiNM is basically consistent with that of the bulk silicon. However, the SiNMs' floating area significantly affects the results, i.e., the Young's modulus varies with the ratio of the suspended area diameter (i.e., hole diameter) to the film thickness. The Young's modulus is independent of hole diameter when the ratio is greater than 425. According to this relationship, the variation of Young's modulus can be predicted for arbitrary thick SiNMs and any transferable nanofilms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The disruptive effect of radio frequency interference (RFI) on global navigation satellite system (GNSS) signals is well known, and in the last four decades, many have been investigated as countermeasures. Recently, low-Earth orbit (LEO) satellites have been looked at as a good opportunity for GNSS RFI monitoring, and the last five years have seen the proliferation of many commercial and academic initiatives. In this context, this paper proposes a new spaceborne system to detect, classify, and localize terrestrial GNSS RFI signals, particularly jamming and spoofing, for civil use. This paper presents the implementation of the RFI detection software module to be hosted on a nanosatellite. The whole development work is described, including the selection of both the target platform and the algorithms, the implementation, the detection performance evaluation, and the computational load analysis. Two are the implemented RFI detectors: the chi-square goodness-of-fit (GoF) algorithm for non-GNSS-like interference, e.g., chirp jamming, and the snapshot acquisition for GNSS-like interference, e.g., spoofing. Preliminary testing results in the presence of jamming and spoofing signals reveal promising detection capability in terms of sensitivity and highlight room to optimize the computational load, particularly for the snapshot-acquisition-based RFI detector. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The therapeutic application of STING agonists in various malignancies has been limited by factors such as the inability of systemic administration and the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment. Herein, this work reports a mesoporous polydopamine‐based multifunctional nanoplatform loaded with STING agonist MSA‐2 and chelated with Mn2+ for synergistic photothermal and STING activation‐based immunotherapy. The nanoplatform effectively delivers MSA‐2 to the tumor site and intelligently releases its contents through acid degradation, facilitated by the photothermal effect. Additionally, the thermal ablation of tumor tissue can induce immunogenic cell death, which helps alleviate the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment, thereby enhancing the efficacy of MSA‐2. Furthermore, Mn2+ works as a dual‐acting STING sensitizer and MRI contrast agent which not only boosts the immune response but also allows real‐time MRI tracking of the nanoplatform. This strategy is proved highly efficacious both in impeding primary/metastatic tumor and in eliciting a robust tumor‐specific immune response. Collectively, an effective multifunctional nanoplatform for the systemic delivery of STING agonist which synergized photothermal therapy and STING pathway activation‐mediated immunotherapy is highlighted here to provide new ideas and strategies for optimizing combination therapy for cancer treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The geomagnetic field models are presented with the external field influences taken into account. Magnetometers detect the external field, although most geomagnetic field models do not account for it. It is crucial to take into account how the external field affects the small satellite's other components. Furthermore, variations in the external field have the ability to affect the satellite's orbit and modify the spacecraft's drag, which could result in an altitude decrease and, eventually, mission failure. Consequently, to guarantee a successful mission, a comprehensive comprehension of the external field's influence on the small satellite's subsystems is required. In this work, the magnetorquers apply the magnetic control during the nanosatellite's detumbling phase. Although magnetic control cannot achieve three-axis control instantaneously, it can in near-polar trajectories due to the continuous variation of the magnetic field. In order to determine whether the geomagnetic storms may be exploited to our advantage by producing greater field variations, this study focuses on the extent to which it contributes to the magnetic control of the small satellites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nano-TiO2 combined with cement slurry can be utilized to degrade nitrogen oxides (NOx) in vehicle exhaust, making it an excellent photocatalytic material for air purification. In practice, environmental factors can significantly affect the photocatalytic performance. In this study, a vehicle exhaust test system was developed, and the test methods and evaluation criteria for the degradation test are provided. This study investigated the photocatalytic degradation of NO2 using nano-TiO2 cement slurry through laboratory tests. The effects of temperature, relative humidity, ultraviolet (UV) radiation flux, cement slurry thickness, surface dust adherence, and the number of water rinsing cycles were examined. Additionally, nano-TiO2 cement slurries were applied to an expressway toll station. The results showed that the efficiency of photocatalytic degradation was significantly influenced by temperature and UV radiation flux, while the thickness of the cement slurry had minimal impact. The photocatalytic degradation efficiency was negatively correlated to the relative humidity, when the relative humidity of the cement slurry specimens was high. This is because the excess water (H2O) competes with NO2 for adsorption. The photocatalytic performance of the samples was significantly reduced by surface dust and rain erosion, as both led to a decrease in the amount of nano-TiO2 participating in the reaction. Furthermore, the photocatalytic material has wide-ranging potential applications. The findings of this study would support the promotion of environmentally friendly roads as a strategy to combat air pollution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The regular acquisition and delivery of high-resolution, accurate elevation data has historically been provided by airborne lidar (light detection and ranging) solutions, which are costly and highly localised. Providing similar data sets globally has notable scientific and commercial applications, but comes with challenges around scale. In this work, an investigation into such a service, from low Earth orbit satellites, is presented. The suitability of different space mission architectures is analysed based on platform size and optics mirror design, with the aim of providing true global, high-resolution (5-30 m sample resolution) lidar data, annually. The technical challenges, cost implications and feasible solution sets are presented, suggesting that a small number of large platforms offers a cost-effective solution, with the optimal design (of those evaluated) being that of a micro-satellite (∼ 150 kg class) constellation with deployed optics capability. Solutions offering relatively low spatial resolution (30 m) are lower cost, with the cost rising as a square law with increasing resolution. As platform size continues to decrease, the number of satellites required to maintain global coverage scales exponentially, demanding prohibitively large constellations to ensure global coverage with smaller satellites. [Display omitted] • Global annual lidar coverage from space is technologically and financially feasible. • Deployable optics significantly increase the value potential of a space lidar mission. • Semiconductor (Diode) lasers are more promising than traditional solid-state lasers. • Fewer, larger platforms generally perform better than many, smaller platforms. • Nano-satellite platforms offer limited value due to their constrained aperture area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• We propose spaceborne snapshot GNSS receivers to estimate thermospheric density. • We show that these receivers (<0.1 mW) have a position accuracy 100 superior to TLEs. • We show (T_s ∼ 8 hrs) a relative density accuracy like from TLEs or geodetic receivers. • This improves the time update rate of density values from TLEs by a factor of 9. This paper proposes a novel concept of using highly efficient Snapshot Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) receivers to provide precise position fixes of single or multiple satellites in Low-Earth Orbit (LEO) to improve upper atmospheric modeling and thus contribute to superior space situational awareness (SSA). While tracking of LEO satellites and the use of onboard GNSS receivers for drag measurements and upper atmosphere modeling are well-established techniques, the expected advent of snapshot GNSS receivers for spaceborne scientific applications will allow massive improvements on the GNSS sensor's Size, Weight, Power and Cost (SWaP-C). With chip-size dimensions of 4x4 mm2, a mass of less than 5 gr, an average power level below 0.1 mW, snapshot receiver technology is expected to provide position fixes in space with an accuracy of ∼19 m (3D r.m.s.), which will surpass the accuracy of Two-Line Elements (TLE) provided by the US Joint Space Operations Center (JSpOC) by at least two orders of magnitude. Equally important to their SWaP-C benefits, Snapshot GNSS receivers will allow mission and spacecraft designers to trade onboard-processing requirements versus payload downlink requirements, leading to either minimum onboard processing or a minimum amount of downlinked data. In this research, we establish the concept and architectural overview of using snapshot GNSS receivers for SSA, including the role of using them in a Distributed Space System (DSS), and detail their characterization and performance in terms of the required GNSS hardware and the impact of these payload on the power budget, the link budget and the OnBoard Data Handling (OBDH) budget of a satellite. It will be shown that these receivers lend themselves especially to their use on femto-, pico- and nano-satellites, although integrated snapshot modules may be flown as auxiliary payloads on micro- or mini-satellites as well. While this work focuses on the implications of the use of snapshot GNSS receivers on spacecraft design for the use of upper atmosphere modeling and SSA, their use may open up other science applications which avoid the need for expensive high-grade GNSS receivers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Human resources development aided the developing space program of the Philippines. • Most of the selected personnel for training came from the academia. • Trainees taken from the industry followed later to support the push for space. • Most of trained personnel opted to stay in the country to support the space program. The Philippines has experienced a shift of interest in space technology development and utilization over the past decade, culminating with the establishment of its national space agency in 2019. In cooperation with different universities in Japan, the Philippines successfully developed and launched two microsatellites, DIWATA-1 and DIWATA-2, and six nanosatellites, MAYA-1 to MAYA-6. By sending personnel to Japan and other space-faring countries, the country was able to rapidly ramp up its satellite development and utilization capabilities. In this paper, we examine and evaluate the complex human resources development efforts conducted by the country to support the creation of a local space ecosystem and ensure its long-term sustainability. Through a careful review, we identify how many people benefited from training programs, studies abroad or other forms of capacity building, and how these skilled individuals were retained in the budding Filipino space sector. Precisely, we looked at the backgrounds of the different people trained by the country, what type of training they received (funding, location, and duration), and how they are supporting the local space ecosystem at the time of writing this paper. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Simultaneous Geant4 simulations of thousands of multilayer shielding configurations. • The optimum mass allocation for two and three-layer shields can be determined. • Shields with low-Z material on top of high-Z material most effective. • Best Two-layer shields perform similarly to the best with up to five layers. • Results contradict Z-graded shielding, no significant improvements beyond two layers. The rising number of proposed nanosatellite missions with Commercial Off-The-Shelf electronics to higher orbits necessitates innovative, compact, and lightweight radiation shielding. In this study, several thousand multilayer radiation shielding configurations were simulated against trapped particle spectra predicted for a geostationary transfer orbit to demonstrate how material combinations and layer structures can be selected to minimise the total ionising dose inside nanosatellites with constrained mass budgets. The Geant4 Radiation Analysis for Space (GRAS) application was used to calculate ionising dose deposition behind multilayer shielding. Thousands of planar shielding stacks were procedurally generated and simulated on top of silicon plates representing sensitive semiconductor devices. To allow for comparison between configurations, all shielding stacks had a total mass of 1.5 g/cm2, and shielding performance was evaluated based on the total ionising dose absorbed by the silicon plates. The simulations consistently show that configurations with low-atomic-number (low-Z) materials on top of high-Z materials yield the lowest doses. The two- and three-layer mass allocation optimisations demonstrate the non-linear dependence of ionising dose on mass allocation between materials. Optimised polyethylene-lead shields achieved up to 30% lower ionising doses compared to an equal mass of either of the two materials or up to 50% lower than the same mass of aluminium. Contrary to previous claims about Z-graded shielding, no significant improvements were observed for using more than two different materials, and optimisation of multilayer shields tends to reduce them to two-layer structures. Optimal multilayer radiation shielding depends on various factors and must be tailored to specific radiation environments and mission requirements. The primary contributions of this article are the methods presented for achieving this tailoring using open-source software and parallel computing. The multilayer simulations performed for this work resulted in an extensive dataset for multilayer shielding performance that enabled novel visualisations of the ionising dose dependence on shielding composition based on quantitative results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the ever-increasing number of small satellites launched into space, on-board orbit determination is becoming more and more important. Precise satellite positions are needed for constellation maintenance, formation flying, communication optimization, collision avoidance and Earth observation. In addition, accurate time information is required for the functioning of the instruments on board. Low-cost off-the-shelf Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) receivers and antennas, adapted to the small size and weight of the satellite, allow precise on-board orbit determination and time synchronization for even the smallest satellites. We analysed more than one year of on-board navigation solutions (NAVSOL) from 8 Astrocast CubeSats, which are equipped with our multi-GNSS single-frequency payload. Based on the residuals from a dynamic orbit fitting, we found that the quality of the NAVSOL from the Astrocast satellites varies strongly both over time and between satellites, with an RMS ranging from a few meters to several tens of meters. In this study, we focus on three main effects that influence the quality of the NAVSOL from the Astrocast satellites: (1) The orbit-fit residuals show a positive radial offset in the range of about 6 m to 15 m, which is caused by ionospheric refraction. Our data show that GNSS signals at negative elevations are very strongly affected by the ionospheric refraction and thus account for the major part of the radial offset. (2) Discrepancies between the NAVSOL positions and velocities, and simulations with a GNSS signal generator show a once-per-revolution periodicity in the out-of-plane component, with amplitudes of 2 m and 5 cm/s in position and velocity, respectively. This effect is probably due to an inappropriate dynamic model used in the real-time navigation algorithm of the GNSS receiver. (3) Depending on the location of the GNSS antenna on board the satellite, the noise level varies by a multiple. This is assumed to be due to the antenna orientations, interference of the GNSS signals with electromagnetic waves coming from the satellite platform, signal attenuation during the transmission from the antenna to the receiver and differences in the soldering or tuning of the individual GNSS antennas. These findings help us refine hardware configurations and firmware settings in preparation for future Astrocast satellites or other nanosatellite missions. By eliminating or minimizing the mentioned effects, we expect to consistently achieve an accuracy on the level of a few meters for the real-time navigation solution of commercial off-the-shelf single-frequency GNSS receivers in space. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The in-depth analysis concerning application of microfluidic instruments for space biology research is presented. The article focuses on recently investigated key scientific fields, i.e., lab-on-chips applied to the biomedical studies performed in the (1) International Space Station and (2) CubeSat nanosatellites. The paper presents also the lab-on-chip devices that were fabricated with a view to future space biology research and to those that to date have been solely been tested under Earth laboratory conditions and/or simulated microgravity environments. NASA and ESA conceptual mission plans for future are also mentioned, concerning for instance "tissue chips" and the ESA-SPHEROIDS campaign. The paper ends with final conclusions and future perspectives regarding lab-on-chip application in the space biology sector and its impact on novel biomedical and pharmaceutical strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this comprehensive study, the concept and structural diagram of the system for diagnostics of induction electric motors of vehicles with the development of algorithms for the operation of modular units for monitoring the state of the main structural elements are proposed. During the development of the diagnostic system, the peculiarities of the construction of diagnostic systems of rotating electric machines were investigated in the real conditions of their operation, and modern methods of current and vibration diagnostics were implemented. The work algorithms of each module are presented in the functional diagram of the general diagnostic system of and cover important defects of induction motors. The diagnostic system combines methods that use different diagnostic principles and criteria and are adapted for use in an embedded diagnostic system. The developed functional diagram of the diagnostic system can be used for practical implementation in physical form. The use of the proposed diagnostic system will make it possible to obtain continuous information about the state of both electrical and mechanical components of the induction motor when operating under load with a poor-quality power system in real operating conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Magnetorquers are a very suitable solution for the nanosatellite's attitude and orbital control of low Earth orbit (LEO) given its constraints: small available volume, limited power consumption, and maximum weight limitation. In this work, an optimized ferromagnetic core magnetorquer is designed for LEO nanosatellites, considering the geometrical, electrical, and magnetic parameters in an electromagnetic finite element analysis (FEA). The final design dimensions are 10.9 mm diameter and 100 mm in length, with a ferromagnetic core made of high performance soft magnetic alloy Vacoflux50 measuring 5 mm diameter and 100 mm in length. Magnetorquer geometry has been optimized to achieve a very high compactness, reaching an optimal combination of high specific magnetic moment and magnetic moment-input power ratio at the same time. It shows a maximum magnetic moment of 1.42 Am², a magnetic moment-input power ratio of 2.52 Am²/W, and a specific magnetic moment of 22.5 Am²/kg, with a power consumption of 0.565 W and 0.5 A. Such a combination of high-performance values has not been previously found. Furthermore, it has displayed higher magnetic moment and specific magnetic moment than previous prototypes in literature. The simulated model is validated with the experimental testing of a manufactured prototype, by measuring the magnetic and electric variables. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Magnetorquers are a very suitable solution for the nanosatellite's attitude and orbital control of low Earth orbit (LEO) given its constraints: small available volume, limited power consumption, and maximum weight limitation. In this work, an optimized ferromagnetic core magnetorquer is designed for LEO nanosatellites, considering the geometrical, electrical, and magnetic parameters in an electromagnetic finite element analysis (FEA). The final design dimensions are 10.9 mm diameter and 100 mm in length, with a ferromagnetic core made of high performance soft magnetic alloy Vacoflux50 measuring 5 mm diameter and 100 mm in length. Magnetorquer geometry has been optimized to achieve a very high compactness, reaching an optimal combination of high specific magnetic moment and magnetic moment-input power ratio at the same time. It shows a maximum magnetic moment of 1.42 Am², a magnetic moment-input power ratio of 2.52 Am²/W, and a specific magnetic moment of 22.5 Am²/kg, with a power consumption of 0.565 W and 0.5 A. Such a combination of high-performance values has not been previously found. Furthermore, it has displayed higher magnetic moment and specific magnetic moment than previous prototypes in literature. The simulated model is validated with the experimental testing of a manufactured prototype, by measuring the magnetic and electric variables. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The multiscale architecture of electrochemical energy storage (EES) materials critically impacts device performance, including energy, power, and durability. The pore space of nano‐ to macrostructured electrodes determines mass transport within the electrolyte and defines the effective energy density. The dimensions of the active charge‐storing materials can increase stability during cycling by accommodating strains from electrochemical–mechanical coupling while also defining surface area that increases capacitive charge storage, decreases charge‐transfer resistance, but also leads to low efficiency and degradation from interfacial reactions. Thus, elucidating and developing a fundamental understanding of these correlations requires materials with precisely tunable nanoscale architectures. Herein, approaches that take advantage of the nanoscale control offered by block copolymer (BCP) self‐assembly are reviewed and insights gained from associated nanoscale phenomena observed in EES are highlighted. Systematic studies that use custom‐tailored BCPs to reveal fundamental nanostructure–property–performance relationships are emphasized. Importantly, most reports of nanostructured materials utilize low loadings and thin electrodes and results represent mass transfer limitations at the particle scale. However, as cell‐level performance involves mass transport over 10–100s of micrometers, recently emerging BCP‐based processes are further highlighted, leading to hierarchical meso/macroporous materials needed for creating multiscale structure–performance relationships and next‐generation energy storage material architectures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are lipid membrane-bound particles involved in cell-to-cell communication through a delivery of regulatory molecules essential for physiological processes. Since EVs efficiently vectorize specific cargo molecules, they have been proposed as suitable vehicles for therapeutic agents. Drug loading into EVs can be achieved by active, exogenous strategies or by genetic modifications of vesicle-producing cells. With the aim to produce EVs conveying therapeutic proteins, we genetically engineered and compared HEK293 to tumor cells. Tetraspanin-based RFP fusions were found to be more stable and preferentially sorted into EVs in HEK293. EVs isolated from genetically modified HEK293 cells media were captured by cancer cells, efficiently delivering their cargo. Cathepsin B cleavage site introduced between CD9/CD81 and RFP was recognized by tumor specific proteases allowing the release of the reporter protein. Our results indicate HEK293 cells as a preferential system for the production of EVs and pave the way to the development of nano-platforms for the efficient delivery of therapeutic proteins and prodrugs to tumor cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We have considered possible architecture options for an interplanetary communication system in which a data relay is used. The structure of a typical space communication link and the ways to improve its efficiency are analyzed. As one possibility, it is proposed to use accompanying orbital data-relay satellites providing the required data-transmission rate in the mode of formation flight together with the research spacecraft (SC). The optimization of the heliocentric leg of the flight trajectory of the Martian research SC and its accompanying data-relay satellite was carried out. The principal possibility of providing a formation flight of the data-relay satellite and research SC to improve communication with the Earth is demonstrated. Estimates were obtained for the masses of data-relay satellite and research SC with regard to the use of medium-lift launch vehicle of Soyuz type and a Fregat booster. Estimates are given for an increase in the duration of high-speed communication due to the use of a data-relay satellite in libration points L4 and L5 of the Earth–Sun system, as well as in heliocentric circular orbits with different radii. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]