A machine learning-based framework to design capillary-driven networks.

We present a novel approach for the design of capillary-driven microfluidic networks using a machine learning genetic algorithm (ML-GA). This strategy relies on a user-friendly 1D numerical tool specifically developed to generate the necessary data to train the ML-GA. This 1D model was validated using analytical results issued from a -shaped capillary network and experimental data.

Capillary Flow Dynamics in Composite Rectangular Microchannels with Rough Walls.

In this article, we consider rectangular microchannels composed of glass and thin polymeric walls with different roughness in which opposed walls are of the same material but adjacent walls are not. We propose a model for fluid capillary transport into these rectangular microchannels when horizontally positioned and focus our research on how the microchannel aspect ratio modifies the motion during the initial viscous regimes. The model relies on an effective static contact angle and an effective friction coefficient that averages local magnitudes in the cross section.

Ventilator output splitting interface 'ACRA': Description and evaluation in lung simulators and in an experimental ARDS animal model.

The current COVID-19 pandemic has led the world to an unprecedented global shortage of ventilators, and its sharing has been proposed as an alternative to meet the surge. This study outlines the performance of a preformed novel interface called 'ACRA', designed to split ventilator outflow into two breathing systems. The 'ACRA' interface was built using medical use approved components.

Exhalatory dynamic interactions between patients connected to a shared ventilation device.

In this work a shared pressure-controlled ventilation device for two patients is considered. By the use of different valves incorporated to the circuit, the device enables the restriction of possible cross contamination and the individualization of tidal volumes, driving pressures, and positive end expiratory pressure PEEP. Possible interactions in the expiratory dynamics of different pairs of patients are evaluated in terms of the characteristic exhalatory times.