In a significant advancement in the field of material engineering, Dr Supen Kumar Sah, an esteemed Assistant Professor from the Department of Mechanical Engineering, has published a groundbreaking research paper.

The study, titled “Effect of Bi-Directional Material Gradation on Thermo-Mechanical Bending Response of Metal Ceramic FGM Sandwich Plates Using Inverse Trigonometric Shear Deformation Theory,” appears in the prestigious International Journal of Structural Integrity.

Dr Sah’s research provides new insights into the behaviour of Functionally Graded Materials (FGMs) under thermal and mechanical loads, which is crucial for the design of advanced engineering structures. His work employs an innovative inverse trigonometric shear deformation theory to analyse the bending response of metal-ceramic FGM sandwich plates, offering a more accurate prediction of their performance in real-world applications.

This publication not only highlights the cutting-edge research being conducted at SRM University but also positions Dr Sah as a leading figure in the application of FGMs in structural engineering. The findings from this paper have the potential to influence the design and optimization of materials used in various industries, from aerospace to automotive.

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to investigate the bending analysis of metal (Ti-6Al-4V) ceramic (ZrO_2) functionally graded material (FGM) sandwich plate having material property gradation along length and thickness direction under thermo-mechanical loading using inverse trigonometric shear deformation theory (ITSDT). Mechanical and thermal properties of BDFGM sandwich plates are considered temperature-dependent in the present study. Analytical solution for bending analysis of FGM plate has been carried out using Hamilton’s principle and Navier’s solution.

The present study shows that centre deflection, normal stress, and shear stress are significantly influenced by temperature-dependent material properties, bi-directional gradation exponents’ geometrical parameters, sandwich plate layer thickness, etc.

Title of the Research Paper in the Citation Format

Sah, S. K., Ghosh, A. (2024). Effect of Bi-Directional Material Gradation on Thermo-Mechanical Bending Response of Metal Ceramic FGM Sandwich Plates Using Inverse Trigonometric Shear Deformation Theory. International Journal Structural Integrity. DOI: 10.1108/IJSI-02-2024-0016

Collaborations

Prof Anup Ghosh, Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur, India

Future Research Plans

Modelling and Analysis of porous uni and multi-directional Functionally Graded Material (FGM) plates to obtain the impact of porosity distributions over structural responses.

Analytical & Finite Element Solution for static and dynamic response of FGM sandwich plates employing non-polynomial shear deformation theories under elastic foundation.

Pictures Related to the Research

It is with great pleasure that we announce the publication of a research paper titled “Self-Learning Controller Design for DC-DC Power Converters with Enhanced Dynamic Performance,” jointly authored by Dr Tousif Khan N, Associate Professor, Department of Electrical and Electronics Engineering, and Dr Ramanjaneya Reddy & Dr Arghya Chakravarty, Assistant Professors, Department of Electrical and Electronics Engineering. The research paper introduces a novel self-learning control for precise output voltage tracking in DC-DC buck power converters.

Abstract:

This article introduces a self-learning robust control approach for accurate output voltage tracking in DC-DC buck power converters, focusing on scenarios with high precision requirements and significant load uncertainties. The method employs a simple online neural network to swiftly estimate unexpected load changes and disturbances across a wide range. Operating within a backstepping framework, the controller utilises neural network-learned uncertainties to enhance stability and improve dynamic and steady-state performance of both output voltage and inductor current. Extensive numerical simulations and practical experiments on a laboratory prototype demonstrate substantial enhancements in dynamic performance with a 94% reduction in settling time and precise steady-state tracking. The reliability of the proposed controller is further supported by the consistency between computational and experimental outcomes, showcasing its potential for real-world applications.

Practical implementations:

The proposed controller can be implemented/used for robotics applications, industrial processes, and medical equipment where precise control is needed.

Future research plans:

The following are the potential future directions of the proposed work;

(i) Design and development of the proposed self-learning neural network-based control for DC-DC buck converter systems with real-time DC sources, such as solar PV and fuel cells, experiencing highly intermittent input voltage changes.

(ii) Incorporating inductor current constraints and output voltage limitations into the proposed controller would also be an avenue worth exploring.

We congratulate the professors for their valuable contribution and look forward to future breakthroughs in this area.

The WIRE

It is a matter of immense pleasure for the Department of Electronics and Communication Engineering to announce the publication of Dr Duga Prakash, Associate Professor at SRM University-AP. His research paper titled “Analysis of GAA Junctionless NS FET towards Analog and RF Applications at 30 nm Regime”, published in IEEE Open Journal of Nanotechnology, studies how the device can be manufactured with ease and minimal doping, eliminating the need for high-temperature doping processes. The enhanced performance metrics suggest that the device’s potential for faster analog/RF switching circuits paves the way for more efficient analog and RF applications at the 30 nm scale.

Abstract:

A new nanosheet FET is used to generate a quantum model in this research. A Gate-all-around (GAA) Junction-less (JL) nanosheet device with a 1 nm gate dielectric of SiO2 and HfO2 performs according to the standard model. The visual TCAD tool examines ION, IOFF, ION/ IOFF, threshold voltage, DIBL, gain parameters (gm, gd, Av), gate capacitance, and cut-off frequency to evaluate the classical and quantum models of the GAA nanosheet device. Simulation results show that the device’s low gate capacitance of 10–18 makes it suitable for rapid switching applications. Device research reveals a transconductance (gm) value of 21 μS and a remarkable cut-off frequency of 9.03 GHz. Its P-type device response has also been extensively studied. Finally, the inverter model uses the proposed GAA nanosheet device. Despite having larger gate capacitance, the NSFET-based inverter offers the smallest propagation delay helps apply knowledge to real-world situations.

The Directorate of Alumni Relations, in collaboration with the Directorate of Corporate Relations and Career Services (CR&CS) and SEAS Engineering at SRM University-AP, is organising a one-of-a-kind alumni talk titled, “Transitioning from Academia to Industry: Embarking on a Professional Odyssey.” The interactive session by Mr Sai Krishna Rohith K, Software Engineer at Target and a former student, Class of 2021 B.Tech Computer Science and Engineering will be conducted online on April 26, 2024.

The upcoming session aims to provide insights into the various challenges that students may encounter while transitioning from their academic life to a professional career. The discussion will delve into the nuances of this significant change, including the skills that will be required to succeed in a professional setting, the expectations that employers may have of new hires, and the adjustments that students may need to make to their daily routines. By addressing these aspects, the session hopes to prepare students for a smooth and successful transition into their desired career paths.

Stay tuned to learn about the exciting nuances of professional life!!

Department of Liberal Arts and the Department of Media Studies, under the aegis of the Easwari School of Liberal Arts at SRM University-AP organised its 2-day International Conference on New Media and its Publics in India. This prestigious conference welcomed renowned figures, including Mr Abhinandan Sekhri, co-founder and CEO of Newslaundry; Dr Ann Feldman, Documentarian and Activist; Dr Meheli Sen, Associate Professor, Department of AMESALL, Director of Cinema Studies Program, Rutgers University; Dr Pramod K Nayar, Professor and UNESCO Chair in Vulnerability Studies, Department of English, University of Hyderabad; Dr Sambaiah Gundimeda, Associate Professor, School of Interwoven Arts and Sciences, KREA University; Mr Rahee Punyashloka, Artist and Filmmaker and Ms Anuradha Nagaraj, Independent Journalist, Faculty at School of Development, Azim Premji University.

In his inaugural address, Vice Chancellor Prof. Manoj K Arora remarked, “We are honoured to host a conference of this magnitude. Media has become an indispensable facet of our contemporary existence; invariably, we all engage with or subscribe to media in some capacity.” Keynote speaker and co-founder of Newslaundry, Mr Abhinandan Sekhri, imparted his wisdom to the attendees, emphasising, “As the fourth pillar, media plays a pivotal role in society. It is imperative that we discern and uphold the principles of authentic journalism.” Prof. Vishnupad, Dean-Easwari School of Liberal Arts, remarked,” Technology and media have become an essential aspect of our lives today, and they have drastically altered our perception of things.”

Dr Meheli Sen, Dr Ann Feldman, Dr Pramod Nayar, Dr Sambaiah Gundimeda, Mr Rahee Punyashloka, and Ms Anuradha Nagarajan all deliberated on the various possibilities and interpretations that the New media offers and thereby shapes the public narratives. The conference also comprised a series of parallel sessions that explored the multifaceted relationship between New Media and various disciplines. Topics discussed included New Media and Literature, Gender, History, Democracy and Performance. Members of the academia presented their research papers, fostering insightful discussions on the evolving landscape of New Media.

The two-day event witnessed 150+ entries from students, scholars and faculties from across the country and the world and provided a platform for intellectual exchange but also fostered a collaborative spirit among participants. The conference concluded with a plenary address by Dr Pramod Nayar, which served as a catalyst for innovative thinking in New Media. Registrar Dr R Premkumar, in his message, applauded the efforts of the convenors, Dr Asijit Dutta and co-convenors Dr Sapna Mishra and Dr Partha Bhattacharjee for organising a scholarly colloquium such as this and remarked, “the exchange of ideas, scholarly debates, and interdisciplinary discussions that transpired here will undoubtedly enrich the academic landscape and advancement in the field of new media”.

We are thrilled to announce that Dr A Lakshmana Rao, Associate Professor from the Department of Commerce along with Ms Sreya B, a distinguished PhD Scholar, have made a significant contribution to the field of public health with their latest publication.

Their paper, titled “A Commentary on ‘Sleep Quality, Quality of Life, Fatigue, and Mental Health in COVID-19 post-pandemic Türkiye: A Cross-Sectional Study’,” has been published in the esteemed journal Frontiers in Public Health, which boasts an impressive impact factor of 5.2.

This groundbreaking study delves into the crucial aspects of sleep quality, quality of life, fatigue, and mental health in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic in Türkiye. The research provides insightful commentary and analysis, contributing valuable knowledge to our understanding of the pandemic’s long-term effects on human well-being.

The SRM University-AP community is proud of Dr Rao and Ms Sreya B for their dedication and excellence in research. Their work not only enhances the reputation of our institution but also serves as an inspiration for our students and faculty alike.

We congratulate them on their achievement and encourage our readers to access the full paper to learn more about the study’s findings and implications for public health.

Abstract

This commentary examines the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on mental health and sleep quality among the Turkish population, focusing on socio-demographic disparities and gender-based differences. To investigate the lasting effects of the pandemic, a comprehensive cross-sectional, multi-center-based survey was conducted in 2022. The study used robust sampling strategies and validated assessment tools such as WHOQOL-BREF, PHQ-15, DASS-21, GAD-7, PSQI, and FAS to reveal significant associations between poor sleep quality and worsened mental health.

The findings highlight the need for targeted interventions post-pandemic. The study conducted a detailed analysis, including multivariate regression, to explore the interaction between socio-demographic factors, mental health, and sleep quality, providing valuable insights for future public health interventions that consider both socio-demographic characteristics and lifestyle factors. In conclusion, the study advocates prioritising interventions that enhance sleep quality as a crucial aspect of post-pandemic public health, offering potential avenues for mitigating mental health disorders. Despite acknowledged limitations, the research’s contributions to understanding post-pandemic mental health challenges underscore its relevance in shaping targeted public health interventions.

Explanation of the Research in Layperson’s Terms

This article discusses a research study conducted in Turkey to investigate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on people’s sleep, quality of life, fatigue, and mental health. The study discovered that numerous individuals experienced sleep problems and mental health disorders following the pandemic, likely due to stress and social isolation. It suggests that enhancing sleep quality could help to improve mental health in the future, emphasising the significance of addressing these issues in public health strategies.

Title of Research Paper in the Citation Format

Sreya B, Lakshmana Rao A, (2024) Commentary: Sleep quality, quality of life, fatigue, and mental health in COVID-19 post-pandemic Türkiye: a cross-sectional study. Front. Public Health 12:1393054. Doi: 10.3389/fpubh.2024.1393054

Practical Implementation or the Social Implications Associated with the Research

The findings of the research have significant practical and social implications for addressing the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the Turkish population. The study underscores the importance of targeted interventions aimed at improving sleep quality to mitigate long-term mental health challenges. These interventions might involve stress management programs, education on sleep hygiene, and increased access to mental health services. Furthermore, optimising healthcare resource allocation by prioritising mental health services and sleep disorder clinics could enhance support for individuals struggling with mental health issues.

Public health campaigns focusing on the importance of sleep for mental well-being could raise awareness and promote strategies for improving sleep quality across various demographic groups. Additionally, the research helps reduce stigma around mental health by highlighting the prevalence of mental health symptoms and sleep disturbances post-pandemic, encouraging more individuals to seek support without fear of judgment. Moreover, recognising the impact of social isolation on mental health and sleep quality underscores the importance of fostering social support networks and community connections to aid in post-pandemic recovery.

Policy development informed by the research findings could address broader social determinants of health, such as housing insecurity and access to healthcare, to create a more supportive environment for mental health and sleep quality improvement initiatives. Overall, integrating mental health and sleep quality considerations into post-pandemic recovery efforts is crucial for promoting the overall well-being of the Turkish population.

Link to the Article

DNP Education

In a significant academic achievement, Dr Soumyajyoti Biswas, Assistant Professor and Scholars  Ms Diksha and Mr Gunnemeda Eswar in the Department of Physics, has published an insightful paper in the prestigious Q1 journal, Physical Review E. The paper, titled “Prediction of depinning transitions in interface models using Gini and Kolkata indices,” presents a novel approach to understanding the complex phenomena of depinning transitions in physical systems.

The research introduces the use of Gini and Kolkata indices as predictive tools, offering a fresh perspective that could pave the way for new discoveries in the field. This publication not only underscores Dr. Biswas’s expertise but also enhances the university’s reputation as a hub for cutting-edge research.
The Department of Physics congratulates Dr. Biswas on this remarkable accomplishment and looks forward to the continued impact of his work on the scientific community.

Abstract

The intermittent dynamics of driven interfaces through disordered media and its subsequent depinning for large enough driving force is a common feature for a myriad of diverse systems, starting from mode-I fracture, vortex lines in superconductors, and magnetic domain walls to invading fluid in a porous medium, to name a few. In this work, we outline a framework that can give a precursory signal of the imminent depinning transition by monitoring the variations in sizes or the inequality of the intermittent responses of a system that are seen prior to the depinning point. In particular, we use measures traditionally used to quantify economic inequality, i.e., the Gini index and the Kolkata index, for the case of the unequal responses of precritical systems.

The crossing point of these two indices serves as a precursor to imminent depinning. Given a scale-free size distribution of the responses, we calculate the expressions for these indices, evaluate their crossing points, and give a recipe for forecasting depinning transitions.We apply this method to the Edwards-Wilkinson, Kardar-Parisi-Zhang, and fiber bundle model interface with variable interaction strengths and quenched disorder. The results are applicable for any interface dynamics undergoing a depinning transition.

Explanation of Research in Layperson’s Terms

Many different physical systems, from cracking in materials to the movement of magnetic fields, share a common underlying behavior – they all involve an “interface” or boundary that moves through a disordered, or irregular, medium. As this interface moves, it often gets “pinned” or stuck in place by the disorder in the medium. However, as the driving force on the interface increases, there comes a point where the interface suddenly “depins” and starts moving much more freely. This transition from a pinned to a depinned state is called the “depinning transition” and it’s an important phenomenon in many areas of science and engineering.

In this work we have found a way to detect when this depinning transition is about to happen, before it actually occurs. We do this by looking at the sizes or magnitudes of the intermittent, or irregular, responses of the system as the driving force increases. Specifically, we use two measures that are traditionally used to quantify economic inequality – the Gini index and the Kolkata index. These give a way to track how “unequal” or unevenly distributed the sizes of the responses are. We found that when these two inequality measures cross each other, it serves as a precursor or early warning sign that the depinning transition is imminent. This is a powerful result because being able to predict when depinning will happen is very useful in fields like material science, superconductivity, and fluid dynamics, where controlling these phase transitions is important. By monitoring these inequality measures, one can may be able to forecast depinning events before they occur, which could lead to better design and control of these systems.

Title of Research paper in the Citation Format

Diksha, G. Eswar, and S. Biswas, Prediction of depinning transitions in interface models using Gini and Kolkata indices, Physical Review E 109, 044113 (2024).
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevE.109.044113

Practical Implementation or the Social Implications Associated with it

Prediction of imminent transition has implications in a wide range of disciplines, including stability of mechanical structures (buildings, aircraft, bridges, etc.), extraction of oil (fracking) to the largest scale of mechanical failure i.e., earthquakes.

Collaborations

This work is done with the PhD student Ms Diksha and the BSc student Mr Gunnemeda Eswar.

Future Research Plans

Future research plans include applications of the methods developed here to be applied to real-life physical structures for their stability analysis and predictions of impending catastrophes.

Pictures Related to the Research

In this fig. the time series of avalanche sizes is shown along with the time variations of g and k for the quenched Edwards-Wilkinson model as a prototype. Here the crossing of g and k occurs prior to the depinning transition point (the last avalanche in the series). Therefore, the crossing of g and k can serve as a good indicator of an imminent depinning transition.

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