bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The e-TidalGCs project
Authors: Ferrone Salvatore , Di Matteo Paola , Mastrobuono-Battisti Alessandra , Haywood Misha , Snaith Owain N. , Montuori Marco , Khoperskov Sergey , Valls-Gabaud David
Published: February 2023

We present the e-TidalGCs project, aimed at modeling and predicting the extra-tidal features surrounding all Galactic globular clusters for which 6D phase-space information, masses, and sizes are available (currently numbering 159 globular clusters). We focus the analysis and presentation of the results on the distribution of extra-tidal material on the sky, as well as on the different structures found at different heliocentric distances. We emphasize the wide variety of morphologies found: beyond the canonical tidal tails, our models reveal that the extra-tidal features generated by globular clusters take a wide variety of shapes, from thin and elongated shapes to thick and complex halo-like structures. We also compare some of the most well-studied stellar streams found around Galactic globular clusters to our model predictions, namely, those associated with the clusters NGC 3201, NGC 4590, NGC 5466, and Pal 5. Additionally, we investigate how the distribution and extension in the sky of the simulated streams vary with the Galactic potential by making use of three different models, either containing a central spheroid, not containing one, or containing a stellar bar. Overall, our models predict that the mass lost by the current globular cluster population in the field from the last 5 Gyrs is between 0.3 − 2.1 × 107 M⊙. This amount is comparable to a value between 7–55% of the current mass. Most of this lost mass is found in the inner Galaxy, with the half-mass radius of this population being between 4–6 kpc. The outputs of the simulations will be publicly available, coinciding with the unique opportunity presented by the delivery of the ESA Gaia mission and complementary spectroscopic surveys. Their exquisite data will offer the possibility to carry out novel comparisons with the models discussed in this work.
Advanced UV-fluorescence image analysis for early detection of PV-power degradation
Authors: Neumaier Lukas , Eder Gabriele C. , Voronko Yuliya , Berger Karl A. , Újvári Gusztáv , Knöbl Karl
Published: February 2023

Reliability and durability of photovoltaic modules are a key factor for the development of emerging PV markets worldwide. Reliability is directly dependent on the chemical and physical stability of the polymeric encapsulation materials. One method capable of detecting ageing effects of the polymeric encapsulant directly on-site is UltraViolet Fluorescence (UVF) imaging. This work deals with advanced imaging analysis of UVF images and the subsequent correlation to electrical parameters of PV modules, which were exposed to climate-specific, long-term, accelerated aging procedures. For establishing a correlation, a so called UVF area ratio was established, resulting from the typical fluorescence patterns of the encapsulant material, which arise due to stress impact (e.g., water vapor ingress, elevated temperature, irradiation) and aging/degradation processes. Results of the data analysis show a clear correlation of the UVF area ratios and the electrical parameters with increasing aging time. In particular, the relationship between power and series resistance could be confirmed by extensive long-term test series with different climate-specific aging processes. Assuming the same type of polymeric encapsulation and backsheet and a comparable climate, determining the UVF area ratio can be used to estimate the service life and electrical power dissipation of each module installed in a PV array.
A high or low temperature compensation bandgap reference voltage with pre-regulated voltage circuit
Authors: LIU Xiaoxuan , LI Haisong , CAO Tianjiao , LI Ting
Published: February 2023

分析了带隙基准电压分段补偿技术与基本原理, 提出一种具有预稳压功能的高低温补偿带隙基准电路。应用高低温补偿电路优化了温度系数, 设置预稳压电路提高了带隙基准电路的电源抑制比。基于0.35 μm标准CMOS工艺设计并绘制了电路及版图。仿真结果表明, 在-55~125℃范围内, 温漂系数仅为1.8×10-6/℃; 电源抑制比为-84.6 dB(在1 kHz下); 在2.6~5 V的电源幅度范围下, 电源抑制性能为19.6 μV/V。该电路可应用于高精度系统设计中。
Research on vanishing point detection of unstructured road scene combined with stereo vision
Authors: CHEN Xing , ZHANG Wenhai , YANG Lin , ZHENG Xunjia
Published: February 2023

消失点检测是基于视觉的无人车辆自主导航的重要组成部分。由于非结构化场景存在缺乏清晰的道路线和复杂的背景干扰等问题, 现有检测方法普遍存在精度低、计算时间长的缺点。因此, 针对非结构化道路特点, 提出了一种结合立体视觉的消失点检测方法。采用双目立体视觉技术获得道路图像的视差图, 使用广度优先算法快速估计出道路图像的背景区域; 设计四方向五尺度的Gabor滤波器组估计像素响应幅值, 并通过幅值校正减少检测误差; 结合背景区域设计一系列投票点选择策略, 来剔除背景区域的干扰, 提高算法精度; 采用动态调整候选点范围策略, 减少消失点的搜索范围, 从而提高算法效率; 设计了一种角度优先投票函数, 将在投票空间中获得最大票数的候选点视为消失点。结果表明, 改进的方法在复杂背景干扰的场景下具有较好的鲁棒性, 在检测速度和检测精度上都有显著提升。
Periodontal disease in pregnancy: A comparative prospective
study
Authors: Ortmann Nora , Möllers Mareike , Braun Janina , Sourouni Marina , Willy Daniela , Köster Helen Ann , Klockenbusch Walter , Schmitz Ralf , Oelmeier Kathrin
Published: February 2023

Introduction Periodontal disease affects many pregnant women and may be
associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes. The object of this study was to
evaluate women’s level of knowledge about this condition in pregnancy.
We compared level of knowledge, participation in medical screening, and
periodontal health status in pregnant women and nonpregnant controls.

Material and Methods This study included 141 pregnant and 141 nonpregnant
women, examined by one examiner at the Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics
of the University Hospital Muenster, Germany. With reference to periodontal
health status, the Periodontal Screening Index was used and a questionnaire was
designed to represent the level of knowledge and predisposing factors.

Results Pregnant women showed a strong tendency towards higher Periodontal
Screening Indices than the nonpregnant controls (P=0.058). A strong
positive correlation between participation in screenings and a lower Periodontal
Screening Index was measured, but no direct relation between knowledge and
periodontal health was detected. However, a better level of knowledge correlated
noticeably with participation in screening programs. Educational attainment was
found to be a main factor correlated with periodontal health and further factors
such as medical screening and smoking habits. A great number of women felt they
were not sufficiently informed about oral health aspects in pregnancy.

Conclusions As participation in screenings was a main item that positively
correlated with healthier periodontal status, it had to be a focused element.
The possible positive influence of knowledge regarding the participation in
screening programs showed not only the need to spread awareness but also the
need for proper education.
Verlauf eines frühgeborenen Geminus nach totalem
Muttermundsverschluss bei Spontanabort des ersten Geminus in der 19+1
Schwangerschaftswoche – Fallbericht und
Literaturübersicht
Authors: Kögel Matthias , Werner Matthias , Knuf Markus , Hitschold Thomas
Published: February 2023

Wir berichten über den geburtshilflichen und neonatologischen Verlauf
einer 34-jährigen Geminigravida, die sich erstmalig in der 16+1
Schwangerschaftswoche (SSW) in unserer Klinik mit vorzeitigem Blasensprung
vorstellte. Bei vitalen und zeitgerecht entwickelten Gemini mit Anhydramnion des
führenden Zwillings erfolgte die stationäre Überwachung
unter intravenöser antiinfektiver Therapie. Nach verhaltenem Abort des
ersten Geminus in der 19+1 SSW wurde eine operative Intervention mit
assistierter Entbindung des ersten Geminus unter Belassung der Plazenta in situ
mit anschließendem notfallmäßigem totalen
Muttermundverschluss durchgeführt. Die verbliebene Einzelschwangerschaft
konnte bis zur 24. SSW fortgeführt werden. Dann erfolgte bei
unaufhaltsamer Wehentätigkeit, vorzeitigem Blasensprung und steigenden
Entzündungszeichen im Labor der Mutter die eilige Sectio. Postnatal
zeigte das Frühgeborene einen für das Gestationsalter insgesamt
erfreulichen Verlauf, so dass in zukünftigen ähnlichen
Fällen die Option der operativen Maßnahmen mit
berücksichtigt werden sollte.
Hemostatic spray (TC-325) vs. standard endoscopic therapy for non-variceal gastrointestinal bleeding: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Deliwala Smit S. , Chandan Saurabh , Mohan Babu P. , Khan Shahab , Reddy Nitin , Ramai Daryl , Bapaye Jay A. , Dahiya Dushyant Singh , Kassab Lena L. , Facciorusso Antonio , Chawla Saurabh , Adler Douglas
Published: February 2023

Background and study aims Hemospray (TC-325) is a mineral powder with adsorptive properties designed for use in various gastrointestinal bleeding (GIB) scenarios. We conducted a systematic review & meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing TC-325 to standard endoscopic therapy (SET) for non-variceal GIB (NVGIB).

Methods Multiple databases were searched through October 2022. Meta-analysis was performed using a random-effects model to determine pooled relative risk (RR) and proportions with 95 % confidence intervals (CI) for primary hemostasis, hemostasis failure, 30-day rebleeding, length of stay (LOS), and need for rescue interventions. Heterogeneity was assessed using I2%.

Results Five RCTs with 362 patients (TC-325 178, SET 184) – 123 females and 239 males with a mean age 65 ± 16 years). The most common etiologies were peptic ulcer disease (48 %), malignancies (35 %), and others (17 %). Bleeding was characterized as Forrest IA (7 %), IB (73 %), IIA (3 %), and IIB (1 %). SET included epinephrine injection, electrocautery, hemoclips, or a combination. No statistical difference in primary hemostasis between TC-325 compared to SET, RR 1.09 (CI 0.95–1.25; I2 43), P = 0.2, including patients with oozing/spurting hemorrhage, RR 1.13 (CI 0.98–1.3; I2 35), P = 0.08. Failure to achieve hemostasis was higher in SET compared to TC-325, RR 0.30 (CI 0.12–0.77, I2 0), P = 0.01, including patients with oozing/spurting hemorrhage, RR 0.24 (CI 0.09 – 0.63, I2 0), P = 0.004. We found no difference between the two interventions in terms of rebleeding, RR 1.13 (CI 0.62–2.07, I2 26), P = 0.8 and LOS, standardized mean difference (SMD) 0.27 (CI, –0.20–0.74; I2 62), P = 0.3. Finally, pooled rate of rescue interventions (angiography) was statistically higher in SET compared to TC-325, RR 0.68 (CI 0.5–0.94; I2 0), P = 0.02.

Conclusions Our analysis shows that for acute NV GIB, including oozing/spurting hemorrhage, TC-325 does not result in higher rates of primary hemostasis compared to SET. However, lower rates of failures were seen with TC-325 than SET. In addition, there was no difference in the two modalities when comparing rates of rebleeding and LOS.
Point Prevalence Study (PPS) of Antibiotic Usage and Bacterial Culture Rate (BCR) among Secondary Care Hospitals of Small Cities in Central India: Consolidating Indian Evidence
Authors: Kumar Shweta , Shukla Pankaj , Goel Pramod , Mishra Vivek , Gupta Ayush , Karuna Tadepalli , Srivastava Rakesh , Gupta Amit , Baharani Deepak , Pansey Parijat , Chandiwal Sunil , Shrivastava Sandeep , Gupta Ankur , Rajpoot Shailendra Singh , Biswal DebaDulal , Ansari Mehrunnisa , Walia Kamini , Khadanga Sagar
Published: February 2023

Objective Indian hospitals (especially government-run public sector hospitals) have a nonexistent antimicrobial stewardship program (AMSP). After successfully initiating AMSPs in tertiary care hospitals of India, the Indian Council of Medical Research envisages implementing AMSP in secondary care hospitals. This study is about the baseline data on antibiotic consumption in secondary care hospitals.

Materials and Methods It was a prospective longitudinal observational chart review type of study. Baseline data on antibiotic consumption was captured by a 24-hour point prevalence study of antibiotic usage and bacterial culture rate. The prescribed antibiotics were classified according to the World Health Organization (WHO) Access, Watch, and Reserve classification. All data were collated in Microsoft Excel and summarized as percentages.

Results Out of the 864 patients surveyed, overall antibiotic usage was 78.9% (71.5% in low-priority areas vs. 92.2% in high-priority areas). Most of the antibiotic usage was empirical with an extremely low bacterial culture rate (21.9%). Out of the prescribed drugs, 53.1% were from the WHO watch category and 5.5% from the reserve category.

Conclusion Even after 5 years of the launch of the national action plan on AMR (NAP-AMR) of India, AMSP is still non-existent in small- and medium-level hospitals in urban cities. The importance of trained microbiologists in the health care system is identified as a fulcrum in combating antimicrobial resistance (AMR); however, their absence in government-run district hospitals is a matter of grave concern and needs to be addressed sooner than later.
Acanthus ilicifolius Methanolic Extract for Oral Candidiasis Treatment through Tongue Epithelial STAT3 and Cell Death Evaluation
Authors: Revianti Syamsulina , Andriani Dwi , Pargaputri Agni Febrina , Hartono Mardiyanto Riski
Published: February 2023

Objectives This study aimed to evaluate the effects of topical application of Acanthus ilicifolius methanolic extract on signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) expression and tongue epithelial cell death caused by oral candidiasis under immunosuppressive conditions.

Materials and Methods To obtain the oral candidiasis model, 20 healthy male Rattus norvegicus (Wistar) rats were administered oral dexamethasone and tetracycline for 14 days and oral candidiasis was induced with Candida albicans (ATCC-10231) 1 McFarland. They were then randomized into four groups—immunosuppression (K-), oral candidiasis (K + ), nystatin treatment (P1), and 20% A. ilicifolius methanolic extract treatment (P2) and were treated for 14 days. Histological analyses of cell death and candida invasion and immunohistochemical analysis of STAT3 in epithelial cells were performed.

Statistical Analysis Epithelial cell death data were analyzed using one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and the post hoc Games–Howell test (p < 0.05) and STAT3 expression with one-way ANOVA and the post hoc least significant difference test (p < 0.05).

Results Cell death was significantly different between K- and K+ and between K+ and P1 and P2 (p < 0.05); there were no significant differences between K- and P1 and P2 and between P1 and P2 (p > 0.05). STAT3 expression was significantly different between K- and P1 and P2 and between K+ and P1 and P2 (p < 0.05), but there were no significant differences between K+ and K- and between P1 and P2 (p > 0.05).

Conclusion Topical administration of A. ilicifolius methanol extract increased STAT3 expression and decreased tongue epithelial cell death caused by oral candidiasis.
Imaging Recommendations for Diagnosis, Staging, and Management of Esophageal Cancer
Authors: Chakrabarty Nivedita , Mahajan Abhishek , Patil Prachi , Chowhan Manoranjan , Munmmudi Naveen , Niyogi Devayani , Dabkara Deepak , Singh Suryaveer , Singh Ajaykumar , Devarmani Sanjana , Dhull Varun Singh , Prabhash Kumar
Published: February 2023

Early staging and treatment initiation affect prognosis of patients with esophageal and esophagogastric junction cancer; hence, it is imperative to have knowledge of proper choice of imaging modality for staging of these patients, to effectively convey relevant imaging findings to the treating physician/surgeon. It is also essential to be aware of pertinent imaging findings that need to be conveyed to the treating physician/surgeon at staging, and after treatment, including post-therapy complications (if any), so as to provide timely management to such patients. In this article, we have provided imaging guidelines for diagnosis, staging, post-therapy response evaluation, follow-up, and assessment of post-therapy complications of esophageal and esophagogastric junction cancer in a systematic manner. Besides, risk factors and clinical workup have also been elucidated. We have also attached comprehensive staging and post-therapy contrast-enhanced computed tomography and fluorodeoxyglucose-positron emission tomography/computed tomography-based synoptic reporting formats “ECI-RADS” and “pECI-RADS,” respectively, for esophageal and esophagogastric junction cancer in the supplement, for effective communication of imaging findings between a radiologist and the treating physician/surgeon.
Delayed Posttraumatic Tension Pneumocephalus: Case Report and Review of Literature
Authors: Jain Chirag , Rewatkar Ajinkya , Roy Anup Kumar , Indira Devi Bhagavatula
Published: February 2023

Delayed tension pneumocephalus is a rare entity. Twelve cases of posttraumatic delayed tension pneumocephalus have been reported. This study is a case report of a patient presenting with delayed posttraumatic tension pneumocephalus, and highlights the nuances of management.
Predictors of Gastrostomy Tube Placement in Head and Neck Cancer Patients at a Rural Tertiary Care Hospital
Authors: Copeland-Halperin Libby R. , Divakar Prashanthi , Stewart Talia , Demsas Falen , Levy Joshua J. , Nigriny John F. , Paydarfar Joseph A.
Published: February 2023

Background Head and neck cancer is a leading cause of cancer. Treatment often requires surgical resection, free-flap reconstruction, radiation, and/or chemotherapy. Tumor burden and pain may limit swallowing and impair nutrition, increasing complications and mortality. Patients commonly require gastrostomy tubes (G-tube), but predicting which patients are in need remains elusive. This study identifies predictors of G-tube among head and neck cancer patients undergoing immediate free-flap reconstruction.

Methods Institutional Review Board approval was obtained. Retrospective database review was performed of patients at 18 years of age or older with head and neck cancer who underwent resection with immediate free-flap reconstruction from 2011 to 2019. Patients who underwent nonfree-flap or delayed reconstruction or with mortality within 7 days postoperatively were excluded. Patient demographics and comorbidities, tumor/treatment characteristics, and need for G-tube were analyzed to identify univariate and multivariate predictors.

Results In total, 107 patients were included and 72 required G-tube placement. On multivariate analysis, tracheostomy (odds ratio [OR]: 81.78; confidence interval [CI]: 7.43–1,399.92; p < 0.01), anterolateral thigh flap reconstruction (OR: 16.18; CI: 1.14–429.66; p = 0.04), and age 65 years or younger (OR: 9.35; CI: 1.47–89.11; p = 0.02) were predictors of G-tube placement.

Conclusion Head and neck cancer treatment commonly involves extensive resection, reconstruction, and/or chemoradiation. These patients are at high risk for malnutrition and need G-tube. Determining who requires a pre- or postoperative G-tube remains a challenge. In this study, the need for tracheostomy or ALT flap reconstruction and age 65 years or younger were predictive of postoperative G-tube placement. Future research will guide a multidisciplinary perioperative pathway to facilitate the optimization of nutrition management.
Minimally Invasive Arthrodesis of the Equine Proximal Interphalangeal Joint: A Biomechanical Comparison of Three 5.5-mm Cortical Screws Inserted in Lag Fashion and Two 7.0-mm Headless Cannulated Dual-Pitch Compression Screws
Authors: Rumpel Aires Santana , De Carvalho Anderson Luiz , Vassoler Jakson Manfredini , Schmidt Matheus Lothar , Mertz Cleiton Costa , Rozo Cesar Augusto Camacho , Campos Joanna Kulczynski , Alievi Marcelo Meller
Published: February 2023

Objective The aim of this study was to compare the biomechanical properties of two minimally invasive arthrodesis techniques of the equine proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint (three transarticular 5.5-mm cortical screws [AO-3TLS] vs. two transarticular 7.0-mm headless cannulated multi-use compression screws [MUC-2TS]) in dynamic non-destructive testing and compression testing to failure.

Study Design The experimental study included six pairs of cadaveric adult equine forelimbs; one limb from each horse was randomly assigned to one of the treatments, and the contralateral limb was submitted to the remaining treatment. The dynamic test was performed alternating non-destructive compression tests at a displacement rate of 5 mm/min up to 5,000 N and sinusoidal compressive cyclic tests at 6 Hz, using a 3,600-N amplitude for 8,550 cycles. Construct stiffness and maximum sagittal plane rotation about the PIP joint markers were determined during the dynamic test. After the dynamic test reached 136,800 cycles, the monotonic compressive test until failure was performed on each construct: load, displacement and sagittal plane rotation about the PIP joint marker at failure were analysed.

Results The evaluated biomechanical properties showed no statistical difference between the AO-3TLS and MUC-2TS treatment groups in any of the ramps of the dynamic non-destructive test and in the compression loading until failure test.

Conclusion The MUC-2TS treatment produced biomechanical properties equivalent to the AO-3TLS treatment for PIP joint arthrodesis.
Patient-Reported Outcomes and Surgical Quality
Authors: Hyland Colby J. , Pusic Andrea L. , Liu Jason B.
Published: February 2023

Delivering high-quality surgical care requires knowing how best to define and measure quality in surgery. Patient-reported outcomes (PROs) enable surgeons, health care systems, and payers to understand meaningful health outcomes from the patient's perspective and can be measured using patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs). As a result, there is much interest in using PROMs in routine surgical care, to guide quality improvement and to inform reimbursement pay structures. This chapter defines PROs and PROMs, differentiates PROMs from other quality measures such as patient-reported experience measures, describes PROMs in the context of routine clinical care, and provides an overview of interpreting PROM data. This chapter also describes how PROMs may be applied to quality improvement and value-based reimbursement in surgery.
Emerging Links between Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease and Neurodegeneration
Authors: Kelty Taylor J. , Dashek Ryan J. , Arnold W. David , Rector R. Scott
Published: February 2023

The association between liver and brain health has gained attention as biomarkers of liver function have been revealed to predict neurodegeneration. The liver is a central regulator in metabolic homeostasis. However, in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), homeostasis is disrupted which can result in extrahepatic organ pathologies. Emerging literature provides insight into the mechanisms behind the liver–brain health axis. These include the increased production of liver-derived factors that promote insulin resistance and loss of neuroprotective factors under conditions of NAFLD that increase insulin resistance in the central nervous system. In addition, elevated proinflammatory cytokines linked to NAFLD negatively impact the blood–brain barrier and increase neuroinflammation. Furthermore, exacerbated dyslipidemia associated with NAFLD and hepatic dysfunction can promote altered brain bioenergetics and oxidative stress. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge of the crosstalk between liver and brain as it relates to the pathophysiology between NAFLD and neurodegeneration, with an emphasis on Alzheimer's disease. We also highlight knowledge gaps and future areas for investigation to strengthen the potential link between NAFLD and neurodegeneration.
Anomaly detection and treatment for meteorological and wind turbine power measurements
Authors: Ghayuri Mohammad , Wood David , Mohebalhojeh Ali R. , Mirzaei Mohammad
Published: February 2023

A comprehensive Quality Assurance (QA) process was implemented on the meteorological measurements and power output of the neighboring wind turbine at the Wind Energy Institute of Canada's wind farm on Prince Edward Island. The data, obtained from May 2013 to September 2021, include wind power, speed, direction, temperature, pressure, and relative humidity, averaged over 10 min. The first QA step was the detection of erroneous values due to well-known causes, such as the icing of the cup anemometers, the wake of the neighboring turbine, and the meteorological mast. Subsequent, and mainly novel, procedures were developed to capture systematic errors, nonphysical values, and repeated constant values, to assess the internal consistency, and to deal with abnormally high variation and erroneous small values in the data. Most of the data taken before the calibration of the anemometers in 2017 and some a few months after the calibration were invalid; a fact that shows the importance of yearly calibration. The installation of two instruments on the opposite sides of the mast provided “counterpart” measurements, which greatly facilitated the QA. We also offer some recommendations about the layout of the mast and closest wind turbine and the value of using sonic anemometers which are not affected by icing.
Contribution of meteorological factors based on explainable artificial intelligence in predicting wind farm power production using machine learning algorithms
Authors: Kim Dae-Young , Kim Bum-Suk
Published: February 2023

Wind fields are intermittent and nonlinear to meteorological factors and external environmental conditions. Statistical models have been proposed based on various approaches to precisely predict wind speed and energy production. However, determining the most suitable approach is challenging, regardless of the conditions. Currently, only wind speed, wind direction, temperature, atmospheric pressure, and humidity have been used as input features of models in most wind-power forecasting studies. However, few studies have described each feature's contribution to prediction performance when using meteorological factors, such as atmospheric stability and turbulence components, as input features. This study predicted the 10 min average power and daily energy production of a wind farm using four machine learning (ML) algorithms and 13 meteorological factors. The ultimate goal was to present the individual prediction contribution of meteorological factors using the Shapley additive explanations algorithm, which is an explainable artificial intelligence technique, based on the prediction results. Wind speed showed a dominant influence in the determination of energy production, followed by turbulent kinetic energy, turbulence intensity, and turbulence dissipation rate. Thus, insights into the detailed contribution of turbulence components to predict the performance facilitate the advancement of ML-based approaches, which can yield significant benefits in increasing the predictability of actual wind energy, thereby ensuring efficiency and stability in wind farm operations.
Influence of oxygen on the optical, electrical, and heating properties of gallium-doped zinc oxide (GZO) films
Authors: Beckford Jasmine , Behera Makhes K. , Yarbrough Kelsea , Pradhan Sangram K. , Bahoura Messaoud
Published: February 2023

Thin-film transparent heaters (TFTHs) are gaining popularity in optoelectronics and a variety of domestic applications, including smart windows, car defrosters, and other devices. The deposition and characterization of TFTHs made of gallium-doped zinc oxide (GZO) are presented in this work. GZO thin films were deposited via pulsed laser deposition on glass substrates with varying oxygen partial pressures from 0 to 10 mTorr during deposition. The samples demonstrated very low sheet resistance values between 5 and 17 Ω/sq from 0 to 10 mTorr, respectively. UV/vis transmission spectra revealed that TFTHs have a high optical transparency above 80%. GZO-based TFTHs demonstrated a consistent and repeatable joule heating effect, with temperatures reaching 76 °C with a low input voltage of 10 V. This research could guide the future use of GZO as a transparent conducting oxide material for many potential cost-effective applications from low-powered electronics to lightweight and wearable devices.
Effects of dynamical chordwise retracting and stretching on the propulsive performance of a pure plunging flat plate
Authors: Liu Kang , Song Bifeng , Wang Zhihe , Chen Ang , Xue Dong
Published: February 2023

An innovative morphing scheme, i.e., dynamical chordwise retracting and stretching, has been proposed for flapping wings. Its aerodynamic effects have been investigated based on a plunging two-dimensional flat wing. The conclusive results suggest that the novel morphing scheme can help to enhance the power utilization efficiency of flapping wings in forward motions. Plunging wings equipped with the novel morphing scheme can generate more thrust for a given power consumption or consume less power for a given thrust generation compared with their non-morphing counterparts. Moreover, the morphing scheme tends to function more positively as the defined morphing amplitude increases. In the currently covered parameter spaces, the largest peak propulsive efficiency improvements induced by the morphing scheme are 12.3% at Re = 15 × 104 and 10.8% at Re = 5 × 104, respectively. Examination of the flow structures around the plunging wings reveals that dynamical chordwise retracting and stretching of the wing can ameliorate the vortex distribution, which could account for the propulsive property changes caused by the morphing scheme. The current study may have yielded an inspiring and prospective scheme for enhancing the propulsive capacity of micro-flapping-wing aerial and underwater robots.
Oil droplet spread on an immiscible surface of a vertically falling liquid film
Authors: Ye Zhihao , Li Zeyu , Wang Ruiting , Huang Caoxuheng , Peng Zeyu
Published: February 2023

Droplet spread over a vertically falling liquid film is studied in this paper. A simulation model is built and verified by experiment. Following this, a unique phenomenon that emerges in this context, namely, a strong inertial oscillation in an early stage of spreading, is analyzed. Finally, the equilibrium features of an oil droplet in this circumstance are discussed. The results show that the maximum spreading length in a strong inertial oscillation is much longer than the equilibrium length, being 152% the length of the latter in the base case. Furthermore, the equilibrium spreading length increases nearly linearly with the initial diameter of the droplet. The paper provides data to understand the effects of an oil droplet on a vertically falling film absorber to promote energy saving in a cold storage refrigeration system with low-grade heat.
Corrosion detection of reinforced concrete structures based on microwave nondestructive technique
Authors: Li Peng , Yu Honglin , Li Zijin , Zhang Boming , Wu Tian , Pu Ziheng , Wang Shenhua
Published: February 2023

The corrosion of rebars will change the mechanical properties of the reinforced concrete structure, leading to the decline in the structural strength, which seriously threatens the safety and stability of buildings and power equipment foundations. Hence, it is of great significance to detect the internal corrosion of reinforced concrete structures. In this paper, a nondestructive detection method for detecting the corrosion in reinforced concrete structures based on microwave was proposed, and the corrosion state of rebar can be evaluated by the change of microwave information. Compared with other detection methods, microwave nondestructive detection has the advantages of low energy consumption, strong penetration, no contact, and small equipment volume and weight. In order to verify the effectiveness of the method, a microwave nondestructive detection simulation test platform was built and reinforced concrete test models with different corrosion lengths and depths were made. The influences of concrete parameters, the microwave frequency, and the lifting distance of the waveguide were analyzed. The frequency sweeping and moving scanning detection methods of the waveguide were carried out for the test models with different corrosion defects, and the changes of microwave S-parameters under different corrosion defects were obtained. The results show that when the waveguide is placed horizontally by the frequency sweeping detection method, the corrosion length detection effect of rebar is better. When the waveguide is placed vertically by the frequency sweeping detection method, the corrosion depth can be identified and the amplitude of transmission coefficient increases with the increase in the corrosion depth. The corrosion length of rebars can be identified quantitatively by the moving scanning detection method of the waveguide.
Effect of pulsed magnetic field in murine T lymphoma EL4 cells
Authors: Lee Hyunsook , Lee Boram , Kim Sojin , Jung Juyeon
Published: February 2023

Maintenance of homoeostasis in human body is a very important indicator in all cell activities. When exposed to a disease, various immune cells are activated due to the inflammatory response, and particularly T cells play a role in inducing apoptosis of mutated cells such as tumor cells. When the activity of T cells is very low, infection by external invasion is easy, and on the contrary, excessive activation leads to chronic inflammation caused by autoimmune diseases. Many clinical studies related to pulsed magnetic field (PMF) demonstrated its efficacy in reducing pain, improving blood circulation, as well as blood’s acid-base balance. Therefore, our study has tried to investigate the influence of PMF on the regulation of acid-base homeostasis in EL4 T lymphoma cell. In addition, we have tried to explain the role of PMF on immune cell activity by measuring the level of pro-inflammatory cytokine, TNF-α in culture supernatants. EL4 cells were cultured in a DMEM medium supplemented with 10% FBS and 1% penicillin in an incubator at 37 °C and 5% CO2 condition. Our PMF stimulator has the maximum strength of 4700 G at a transition time of 222 μs with pulse intervals of 1 Hz. The homoeostasis in pH was improved as PMF strength increases. Cell viability decreased by 32% after PMF stimulation of 4700 G. It was observed that the concentration of TNF-α, a cytokine related to inflammation, also decreased as the strength of PMF increased. These results suggest that PMF stimulation improves the anti-inflammatory effect, therefore, it is thought to affect the immune system by balancing the activation and suppression of immune cells. For clinical use, our study might suggest non-invasive PMF can be developed as a medical devices modulating immune system, although it is necessary to optimize the PMF conditions such as pulse shape, duration, or repetition rate.
Adaptive cascade detection of weak magnetic anomalies based on marine predators algorithm-stochastic resonance
Authors: Sun Hexuan , Wang Zheng , Lan Tian , Zhang Shunyu , Qiu Jing
Published: February 2023

Magnetic anomaly detection is a new technology for underground or underwater ferromagnetic targets using the physical principle that ferromagnetic targets will be long-term magnetized by the geomagnetic field to generate abnormal magnetic fields. This technology is often used in underwater security, mineral exploration, and other areas. But it is quite challenging to effectively detect weak magnetic anomaly signals in a complex underwater environment. Therefore, we propose an adaptive cascade weak magnetic anomaly detection method based on Marine Predators Algorithm-Stochastic Resonance (MPA-SR). According to the characteristics of magnetic anomaly signals, the cascade detection method of low-pass filtering, stochastic resonance, and threshold detection is designed to improve the detection probability of magnetic anomaly signals. In addition, the Marine predator algorithm with optimized initialization strategy and step size control parameters is used to improve the stochastic resonance system to adaptively detect the magnetic anomaly signal in more applications. The simulation results show that the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) of the output signal of the MPA-SR method is 2.41 dB higher than the input signal, and the detection probability of the method is 57% higher than that of the minimum entropy (ME) method under the same low SNR environment. The method can provide the theoretical basis and empirical reference for further application of magnetic anomaly data like identifying, locating, and tracking underwater magnetic targets.
A simple 3D printed microfluidic device for point-of-care analysis of urinary uric acid
Authors: Dalvand Kolsoum , Ghiasvand Alireza , Keshan-Balavandy Sepideh , Li Feng , Breadmore Michael
Published: February 2023

Point-of-care testing (POCT) technology allows scientists to monitor and diagnose diseases at the patient site, much faster than classical lab-based methods. Herein, a rapid, simple, and sensitive 3D printed microfluidic device integrated with smartphone-based on-chip detection is described for POCT quantification of urinary uric acid. The device includes two circular inputs each connected to a microliter-scale chamber, separated by an integrated porous membrane, located between the sample and reagent chambers. The microfluidic device was fabricated from a transparent photopolymer using a 3D printer, in a single run. The concentration of uric acid was determined based on a chromogenic reaction in which ferrous ion, produced via the reduction of ferric ion by the analyte, complexed with 1,10-phenanthroline, and the color was recorded by a smartphone. Response surface methodology including a central composed design was utilized to evaluate the experimental parameters and subsequent introduction of a multivariate model to describe the experimental conditions. Under the optimum conditions, the calibration curve was linear over the concentration range of 30–600 mg L−1. The limit of detection was determined to be 10.5 mg L−1. The microfluidic device was successfully utilized for the recovery and quantification of uric acid in the urine, with recoveries ranging from 91.7 to 99.7%.
Template-free self-assembly of mesoporous ZnO nanocluster/ polymethyl methacrylate based anisotropic nanocomposite thin films with enhanced interfacial interactions and tuneable optical properties
Authors: Awasthi Shivam , Mohan Anita , Singh Kamalesh K
Published: February 2023

Nature inspired biomimetic growth of anisotropic, hierarchical nanostructures could offer insight into new and exciting crystalline properties for advanced multifunctional applications. Our study demonstrates diethanolamine-mediated mesoscopic self-assembly of semiconducting ZnO Quantum Dots (3–5 nm) into lattice-aligned, symmetrical superstructures (40–50 nm) via non-classical oriented attachment (OA) crystal growth observed in various biomineralization processes. Multifunctional nanocomposite thin films of self-assembled nanostructures and polymethyl methacrylate were spin-coated onto plasma-treated Si wafers and the surface and interfacial properties were rigorously studied. HR-TEM images depicted the OA growth process with neighboring nano-crystals having perfectly aligned lattices. Preferential orientation of the thin films along <100> direction was evident from the XRD data. Quantum confinement in ZnO QDs and surface defect originating sharp green PL emission were examined through UV–Vis absorption and Photoluminescence spectra respectively. DLS and Zeta potential studies of surface-engineered colloidal superstructures established excellent long-term physico–chemical stability with no agglomeration or transparency loss observed in ZnO mesocrystal suspension even after 6 months. Diethanolamine, due to its dual functionality radically enhanced the interaction between polar ZnO and non-polar PMMA matrix resulting in highly stable thin films (Class II hybrids) with enhanced surface and interfacial properties as evident from the extremely low surface roughness and homogenous nanofiller dispersion observed in AFM and FE-SEM studies. Chemical interactions at the interface were also established quantitatively by XPS binding energy measurements which suggested hydrogen bonds and covalent bonds between organic-inorganic phases promoted via diethanolamine surface engineering.
Well-posedness and applications of classical elastohydrodynamics for a swimming filament
Authors: Mori Yoichiro , Ohm Laurel
Published: February 2023

We consider a classical elastohydrodynamic model of an inextensible filament undergoing planar motion in

R

3

. The hydrodynamics are described by resistive force theory, and the fibre elasticity is governed by Euler–Bernoulli beam theory. Our aim is twofold: (1) Serve as a starting point for developing the mathematical analysis of filament elastohydrodynamics, particularly the analytical treatment of an inextensibility constraint, and (2) As an application, prove conditions on internal fibre forcing that allow a free-ended filament to swim. Our analysis of fibre swimming speed is supplemented with a numerical optimization of the internal fibre forcing, as well as a novel numerical method for simulating an inextensible swimmer.
An experiential program on the foundations of quantum mechanics for final-year high-school students
Authors: Montagnani Stefano , Stefanel Alberto , Chiofalo Maria Luisa Marilù , Santi Lorenzo , Michelini Marisa
Published: February 2023

Teaching and learning quantum mechanics is one of the most demanding educational and conceptual challenges, in particular in secondary schools where students do not possess an adequate mathematical background to effectively support the description of quantum behaviour. Educational research shows that traditional approaches, generally based on historical and narrative perspectives, are only partially effective. The reason is that they do not address in depth those basic quantum concepts that radically question the fundamentals of classical physics. A research-based educational program has been proposed to two final-year classes of an Italian scientific high school. In order to build the main concepts of quantum mechanics and their formal basic representation via real and simulated experiments, the program uses the light polarization as a context. A quantum game was then integrated in the educational program, to support students’ learning. Their conceptual paths, monitored by means of tutorials and questionnaires, show significant student learning especially on the concept of state and on appropriating the formalism meaning, whereas students more frequently referred to the geometrical vector representation instead of the algebraic-analytic formula. The quantum game has emerged to support intuition and operative experience in distinguishing the foundational concepts of superposition and entanglement.
Ultra-wide band radar for prospective respiratory motion correction in the liver
Authors: Neumann Tom , Ludwig Juliane , Kerkering Kirsten M. , Speier Peter , Seifert Frank , Schaeffter Tobias , Kolbitsch Christoph
Published: February 2023

Objective. T1 mapping of the liver is time consuming and can be challenging due to respiratory motion. Here we present a prospective slice tracking approach, which utilizes an external ultra-wide band radar signal and allows for efficient T1 mapping during free-breathing. Approach. The fast radar signal is calibrated to an MR-based motion signal to create a motion model. This motion model provides motion estimates, which are used to carry out slice tracking for any subsequent clinical scan. This approach was evaluated in simulations, phantom experiments and in vivo scans. Main results. Radar-based slice tracking was implemented on an MR system with a total latency of 77 ms. Moving phantom experiments showed accurate motion prediction with an error of 0.12 mm in anterior-posterior and 0.81 mm in head-feet direction. The model error remained stable for up to two hours. In vivo experiments showed visible image improvement with a motion model error three times smaller than with a respiratory bellow. For T1 mapping during free-breathing the proposed approach provided similar results compared to reference T1 mapping during a breathhold. Significance. The proposed radar-based approach achieves accurate slice tracking and enables efficient T1 mapping of the liver during free-breathing. This motion correction approach is independent from scanning parameters and could also be used for applications like MR guided radiotherapy or MR Elastography.
Pedestal particle balance studies in JET-ILW H-mode plasmas
Authors: Horvath L , Lomanowski B , Karhunen J , Maslov M , Schneider P A , Simpson J , Brix M , Chapman-Oplopoiou B , Corrigan G , Frassinetti L , Groth M , Lawson K , Maggi C F , Menmuir S , Morales R B , Moulton D , Myatra O , Nina D , Pereira T , Réfy D I , Saarelma S , Vécsei M
Published: February 2023

JET-ILW type I ELMy H-modes at 2.5 MA/2.8 T with constant NBI heating (23 MW) and gas fuelling rate were performed, utilising edge localised mode (ELM) pacing by vertical kicks and plasma shaping (triangularity, δ) as tools to disentangle the effects of ELMs, inter-ELM transport and edge stability on the pedestal particle balance. In agreement with previous studies, the pedestal confinement improves with increasing δ, mostly due to a significant increase in pedestal density while the ELM frequency (

f

E
L
M

) is decreased. Improved pedestal confinement with increasing δ was observed even when the pedestal MHD stability was degraded artificially by vertical kicks, implying that increased triangularity may favourably affect the inter-ELM pedestal recovery. The workflow developed to quantify the pedestal particle balance uses high time-resolution profile reflectometry to characterise the inter-ELM evolution of the plasma particle content (

d

N

/

d

t

), the NEO drift-kinetic solver to evaluate the neoclassical fluxes and interpretative EDGE2D-EIRENE simulations to estimate the edge particle source. The edge particle source is then constrained by deuterium Balmer-α line intensity measurements in the main chamber, which are, however, strongly affected by reflections from the metal walls. The reflections are accounted for by the CHERAB code taking the divertor emission (the brightest light source in the torus) distribution from imaging spectroscopy measurements as input. Our analysis shows that in the second half of the ELM cycle, the volume-integrated particle source is larger than

d

N

/

d

t

, indicating that transport plays a key role in the inter-ELM pedestal recovery.
Push and pull magnetic reconnection driven by intense laser interaction with double-coil capacitor target
Authors: Yuan Xiaoxia , Zhou Cangtao , Zhang Hua , Chen Peng , Zhong Jiayong , Han Bo , Sun Wei , Wang Jianzhao , Zhou Weimin , Zhang Bo , Wang Chen , Xiong Jun , Lu Feng , Yang Zuhua , Yang Lei , Cui Bo , Gu Yuqiu , Cao Leifeng , Yu Mingyang , Zhao Gang , Zhang Jie
Published: February 2023

Push and pull magnetic reconnection (MR) experiments using high-power laser irradiating a capacitor target with the plates connected by a pair of U-shaped coils are carried out. During the beginning (end) of the laser-target interaction that creates a hot plasma in the region, the rise (fall) stages of the coil currents generates expanding (contracting) magnetic fields that reconnect in the midplane between the coils, resulting in push (pull) MR. Proton radiography and proton ray-tracing simulation are used to track the evolution of the magnetic fields. The proton accumulation and void formation between the coils are related to the oppositely directed current-sheet currents during the push and pull MR stages. The directions of the plasma electron outflows during these two MR phases are obtained by monitoring the soft x-ray emission. Our results suggest that the double-coil capacitor target may be useful for laboratory modeling of fast MR and related phenomena in astrophysical plasmas.