Innovative Projects Realized

Mechanisms driving early T follicular helper cell fate decisions

Automated and smart manufacturing system for Resistance temperature detectors (RTDs) fabrication

The research project aims to revolutionize the manufacturing of temperature sensors, specifically Resistance Temperature Detectors (RTDs), through cutting-edge automation and advanced welding techniques. Think of RTDs as the devices ensuring your oven maintains the right cooking temperature. Our approach involves using smart sensors and robotics, guided by artificial intelligence, to create a highly efficient and precise manufacturing system. Imagine a robot delicately handling a thin platinum wire to craft a sensor that meets strict temperature standards. This innovation benefits our partner, Dynatherm, a leader in sensor manufacturing. The automated system will boost their production, reduce manual labor, and enhance the reliability of their instruments. Ultimately, our project promises a significant leap forward in the efficiency and quality of temperature sensor manufacturing, benefitting industries reliant on accurate temperature measurements.

Using Digital Twins and Predictive Analytics to Enhance Chicken Production Inventory Management

In today’s global market for chicken, producers of broiler hatching eggs face challenges in managing production
efficiently. Traditional methods struggle with complex record-keeping and a lack of real-time monitoring and
prediction capabilities. To overcome these challenges, we propose a digital twin framework—a virtual copy of the
chicken production system. This framework uses synthetic data generated by models like Generative Adversarial
Network and transformers to simulate realistic egg production scenarios. The framework includes layers for the
physical environment, virtual replication, data storage, analytics using Machine Learning, and user interaction. By
integrating digital twin technology, we aim to enhance data management, real-time monitoring, and control in
chicken production, optimizing efficiency and decision-making for producers.

Prevalence of Malignancies in Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis and their Association with Biologic Disease Modifier Antirheumatic Drugs (BDMARDs)

According to Statistics Canada 2012, Arthritis is one of the most common chronic conditions affecting 4.4 million Canadians and 101.504 people in Newfoundland. It is also the most common cause of disability between the ages of 40 and 70 years. People with chronic arthritis have several numbers of other coexisting conditions such as high blood pressure, heart diseases, obesity. Precancerous lesions and cancer are a significant part of these coexisting conditions. Many reports suggest that inflammatory arthritis is associated with an increased prevalence of malignancies. The risk of developing malignancy seems to increase with arthritis severity and they have also been associated with the chronic, systemic inflammatory nature of arthritis. In this study, we aim to examine the distribution of different types of cancer in people with Rheumatoid Arthritis in Newfoundland. We will also investigate the effect of these malignancies on a natural course of disease and their association with the disease severity and treatment of Rheumatoid Arthritis. The study results might be helpful to physicians to recognize and treat malignancies at their early sta es to improve the patients’ pro nosis and quality of life.

Exploring mechano-sensitive channels on photoswitchable lipid membranes

Asymmetric Semiconducting Polymers; Electronic and Mechanical Properties in Organic Electronics

Semiconducting polymers (SPs) are at the forefront of the next generation of organic electronics. They enable seamless integration into various biological and industrial applications. SPs can be engineered to be mechanically compliant and soft, giving them an advantage over silicon-based electronics. Their electronic and solid-state properties also make them promising candidates for emerging organic electronics. Our group recently developed novel asymmetric polyisoindigo polymers. These polymers were found to be more soluble in non-chlorinated solvents. Furthermore, a comprehensive multimodal characterization revealed intriguing electronic and solid-state properties. However, the original design strategy suffered from low yields and challenges in controlling material asymmetry, hindering large-scale synthesis. Additionally, the impact of chain asymmetry on material properties remained not fully understood. To address these challenges, this work will develop a customizable design strategy for asymmetric SPs. We will create a library of asymmetric polymers and control the nanoscale structure of thin film polymers, ultimately improving their electronic and mechanical properties for organic electronics. This collaborative effort draws upon our group’s expertise in materials synthesis and the collaborator’s experience in polymer characterization. The new materials developed will contribute to the advancement of electronics and related applications, providing a cost-effective alternative to traditional electronic manufacturing methods.

Exploring music aid verbal learning and brain plasticity in individuals at risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease

The proposed project aims to investigate the effectiveness of using music-based interventions (MBIs) to enhance memory and cognitive function in individuals with mild cognitive impairment (MCI), particularly Mandarin Chinese-speaking individuals. The project involves two main objectives: a behavioral study to assess the impact of music-assisted verbal learning on memory recall, and an fMRI study to explore the underlying neural mechanisms associated with this intervention. The expected benefits include a better understanding of how music can improve memory in individuals with MCI, potentially leading to more effective and inclusive memory care services. By utilizing innovative fMRI techniques and focusing on a diverse demographic, including Mandarin-speaking populations, the project aims to strengthen Canada’s innovation capacity in memory care research and contribute to more tailored interventions for individuals facing memory challenges.

Recovery of lithium from Li-ion battery recycling effluents through ion-exchange techniques

Optimization of Photoredox-Catalysts for Hydrogen Formation

Innovation Impact Analyst Student

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A Digitized Approach to the 3-Omega Method of Thermal Conductivity Testing

C-Therm is teaming up with the University of New Brunswick to develop a highly digitized implementation of the 3-omega method for thermal conductivity measurements of thin films, such as those employed to manage heat in electric vehicle (EV) batteries. In contrast with traditional transient hot-wire techniques, the 3-omega method operates in the frequency domain, allowing measurement times to be substantially reduced. The penetration depth of the measurement can also be controlled by changing the applied frequency, which is particularly important when performing measurements on layered thin films used in EV batteries. A deeper understanding of the thermal properties of these films will enable the development of safer and more efficient battery solutions for clean transportation technologies.

A Needs Assessment for the Autism Spectrum Disorder Community in Newfoundland and Labrador

The objective of the project is to conduct a comprehensive needs assessment of the Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) population in Newfoundland and Labrador. While prevalence rates of ASD suggest that there are a large number of cases, the needs of this community are not well defined. Furthermore, we anticipate there will be significant differences in need in rural communities compared to urban centers and differences in needs across the age and severity spectrum. The proposed research will involve a series of interviews with families experiencing ASD, individuals and organizations (in particular healthcare and education) that provide services to individuals on the ASD spectrum and key decision makers who oversee the provision of services for individuals and families experiencing ASD.