bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hand Reconstruction Using Anterolateral Thigh Free Flap by Terminal Perforator-to-Digital Artery Anastomosis: Retrospective Analysis
Authors: Kim Jin Soo , Lee Ho Hyung , Koh Sung Hoon , Lee Dong Chul , Roh Si Young , Lee Kyung Jin
Published: August 2023

This study aimed to analyze cases of anterolateral thigh (ALT) free flap used for hand reconstruction with terminal perforator-to-digital artery anastomosis. Patients who underwent ALT free flap placement with terminal perforator-to-digital artery anastomosis for hand reconstruction between January 2011 and August 2021 were included. The number, length, and diameter of the perforators and veins, flap size, and operative time were investigated through a retrospective review of charts and photographs. The occurrences of arterial thrombosis, venous thrombosis, arterial spasm, and flap necrosis were analyzed. In total, 50 patients were included in this study. The mean diameter and length of the perforators were 0.68 mm and 3.25 cm, respectively, and the mean number of veins anastomosed was 1.88, with a mean diameter of 0.54 mm. Complications included four cases of arterial thrombosis, one case of venous thrombosis, seven cases of partial necrosis, and one case of total flap failure. Regression analysis showed that a longer perforator was associated with arterial thrombosis whereas larger flap size and number of anastomosed veins were associated with partial necrosis (p < 0.05). The terminal perforator-to-digital artery anastomosis offers advantages in using compact free flaps with short pedicle lengths to cover small hand defects.
Cost of Vestibular Schwannoma Treatment: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Koester Stefan W. , Dambrino IV Robert J. , Bhamidipati Akshay , Wong Gunther , Liles Campbell , Feldman Michael , Chambless Lola B.
Published: August 2023

Introduction Research furthering treatment efficacy for microsurgical resection and stereotactic radiosurgery for vestibular schwannoma (VS) is ever-growing; however, there remains a paucity of research addressing treatment costs. Our aim is to define the reported costs of different treatment modalities used for VS.

Methods A systematic review of the literature for VS treatment cost was conducted in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines using PubMed and Web of Science databases. Literature that presented cost of VS treatment specific to the modality was included. Articles from 1990 to present day in English were considered. Cost was corrected for inflation to April 2022 dollars using the US Bureau of Labor Statistics Inflation Calculator.

Results A total of 407 articles were included in the analysis. After review, eight articles provided data on cost of treatment. In total, 687 patients were included across seven studies, with study dates ranging from 1997 to 2020. The average cost of resection was $54,321.99 (range = $10,243–95,590, n = 8), radiosurgery $27,837.92 (range = $6,281–51,676, n = 6), and observation $6,304.88 (range = $2,149–11,886, n = 3).

Conclusion Our findings describe the limited and significant variability of data on published costs for the treatment of VS. Given the relative clinical equipoise between treatment modalities in some scenarios, better understanding of this end-point will help physicians make more responsible recommendations in the resource-constrained environment of modern healthcare and this analysis should serve as a starting point for more robust analysis into cost-effectiveness of treatment for VS.
Bloqueio do grupo de nervos pericapsulares do quadril com e sem auxílio de ultrassonografia: Estudo cadavérico comparativo
Authors: Hamra Pedro , Sau André Sanches , Junior Walter Ricioli , Rabelo Nayra Deise dos Anjos , Polesello Giancarlo Cavalli
Published: August 2023

Objetivo Propor e avaliar a reprodutibilidade técnica do bloqueio do grupo de nervos pericapsulares (pericapsular nerve group, PENG, em inglês) do quadril sem o auxílio da ultrassonografia, em cadáveres, de forma comparativa à realização do bloqueio guiado pela ultrassonografia em outro grupo de cadáveres.

Materiais e Métodos Estudo anatômico randomizado, descritivo e comparativo, realizado em 40 quadris divididos em 2 grupos amostrais de cadáveres. Fez-se uma comparação da técnica do bloqueio do PENG à técnica não guiada por ultrassonografia injetando-se corante azul de metileno, seguida de dissecção para verificação da dispersão e da coloração topográfica da cápsula anterior do quadril, além de avaliação do pertuito das injeções entre as técnicas.

Resultados Na análise comparativa das técnicas, não houve falha na punção, lesão de estruturas nobres no pertuito, ou diferença nos resultados. Não houve adequada dispersão do corante pela cápsula anterior somente em 1 quadril de cada grupo (5%), e em 95% dos casos submetidos a qualquer uma das técnicas observou-se dispersão adequada do corante pela região alvo.

Conclusão O bloqueio do PENG do quadril sem auxílio de ultrassonografia é factível, seguro, eficaz, e com alta confiabilidade quando comparado à sua realização guiada pelo aparelho de imagem. Este estudo é pioneiro, e pode ajudar muito os pacientes que têm dor no quadril por diversas causas e necessitam alívio.
Análise do comportamento mecânico da fixação do enxerto suíno em um bloco de poliuretano usando um parafuso de interferência PLA impresso em 3D
Authors: de Oliveira Juliana Pereira , Santos André Luigui Bezerra , Helito Camilo Partezani , Codes Rodrigo Nogueira de , Ariel de Lima Diego , Lima Diego Ariel de
Published: August 2023

Objetivo O interesse em utilizar a impressão 3D na área da saúde tem crescido ao longo dos anos, dadas as suas vantagens e o seu potencial na rápida fabricação de dispositivos e implantes personalizados com geometrias complexas. Assim, o objetivo do presente estudo foi comparar o comportamento de fixação mecânica de um parafuso de interferência impresso em 3D, produzido pela modelagem fundida de deposição do filamento de ácido polilático (PLA), com o de um parafuso de interferência de titânio.

Métodos Oito tendões suínos flexores profundos, de aproximadamente 8 mm de largura e 9 cm de comprimento, foram utilizados como enxerto e fixados em um bloco de poliuretano de 40 PCF em cada uma de suas extremidades. Um grupo foi fixado apenas com parafusos de interferência de titânio (grupo 1) e o outro apenas com parafusos PLA impressos em 3D (BR 20 2021 018283-6 U2) (grupo 2). Os testes foram realizados utilizando uma máquina de teste universal eletromecânica EMIC DL 10.000 no modo de tração axial.

Resultados O grupo 1 (titânio) obteve força máxima de 200 ± 7 N com deformação média do enxerto de 8 ± 2 mm, e a força máxima do grupo 2 (PLA) foi de 300 ± 30 N e deformação média do enxerto de 7 ± 3 mm. Ambos os parafusos de titânio e PLA forneceram boa fixação de enxerto no bloco de poliuretano, sem deslizamento ou deformação aparente. Em todas as amostras o teste culminou na ruptura do enxerto, com cerca de 20 mm de deformação em relação ao comprimento inicial.

Conclusão O parafuso PLA impresso em 3D proporcionou boa fixação, semelhante à de sua contraparte de titânio, produzindo resultados satisfatórios e promissores.
O uso endovenoso de ácido tranexâmico na artroplastia total de joelho sem uso de torniquete
Authors: Cavalli Filipe Steimbach , Guarienti Vinicius Cenci , Cavali Fabio Alan , Junior Osmar Valadão Lopes , Antonietti Lucas Giachini , Dalboni Lucas da Costa Nobre
Published: August 2023

Objetivo: Identificar a necessidade de transfusão sanguínea e intercorrências inerentes ao pós-operatório de pacientes submetidos à artroplastia total de joelho (ATJ), a partir de manejos realizados sem o uso de torniquete e com administração de ácido tranexâmico endovenoso intra-operatório.

Métodos: Trata-se de um estudo observacional retrospectivo, a partir da observação de 49 prontuários médicos de pacientes submetidos à ATJ em pré e pós-operatório. Foi utilizado o teste t pareado para fazer comparações das modificações de hemoglobina (HB) e hematócrito (HT) e o teste t independente com correção de Welch para comparar as modificações de HB e HT entre os sexos. As associações de idade e dias de internação no pós-operatório com as modificações de HB e HT foram testadas pela correlação de Spearman. O nível de significância adotado foi p < 0,05.

Resultados: Os pacientes apresentaram idade média de 71,9 ± 6,7 anos. A maioria da amostra foi composta por mulheres (73,5%) e o lado direito (59,2%) foi o mais acometido. Apenas um participante necessitou de transfusão de sangue e três participantes apresentaram intercorrências durante o seguimento pós-operatório. Nenhum paciente apresentou evento tromboembólico. A mediana da duração da internação no pós-operatório foi de dois dias (IIQ= 1,0). Verificaram-se reduções nas dosagens de HB e HT entre o pré e pós-operatório, e pacientes do sexo feminino apresentaram maior redução de HB.

Conclusão: ATJ com uso de ácido tranexâmico e sem uso de torniquete não acarretou complicações pós-operatórias ou necessidade de transfusão sanguínea significativas.
Momento da cirurgia e parâmetros fisiológicos pré-operatórios como fatores preditivos clínicos de desfechos cirúrgicos em fraturas e luxações traumáticas subaxiais da coluna cervical
Authors: Khanna Aman , Menon Hari , Chaudhary Vijay , Sidhdhapuria Pratik , Patel Kandarp , Narang Chandan
Published: August 2023

Objetivo Avaliar os fatores de risco e os desfechos em indivíduos submetidos ao tratamento cirúrgico de lesões subaxiais da coluna cervical em relação ao momento da cirurgia e aos parâmetros fisiológicos pré-operatórios dos pacientes.

Métodos O estudo incluiu 26 pacientes com fraturas e luxações subaxiais da coluna cervical. Dados demográficos, investigação radiológica apropriada e parâmetros fisiológicos, como frequência respiratória, pressão arterial, frequência cardíaca, pressão parcial de oxigênio (PaO2) e escalas de disfunção da American Spine Injury Association (ASIA), foram documentados. No período pré-operatório, os pacientes foram divididos em dois grupos. O grupo instável (I) continha pacientes com parâmetros fisiológicos anormais e o grupo estável (E) era composto por pacientes com parâmetros fisiológicos dentro da faixa de normalidade. Os pacientes foram ainda subdivididos em grupos de tratamento precoce e tardio de acordo com o momento da cirurgia como Iprecoce, Itardio, Eprecoce e Etardio. Todos os pacientes foram chamados para consultas de acompanhamento em 1, 6 e 12 meses.

Resultados Cinquenta e seis por cento dos pacientes do grupo E apresentaram melhora neurológica em um grau ASIA e desfecho bom independentemente do momento da cirurgia. Os desfechos em pacientes do grupo I com parâmetros fisiológicos instáveis e submetidos à intervenção cirúrgica precoce foram maus.

Conclusão Este estudo conclui que a intervenção cirúrgica precoce em pacientes com instabilidade fisiológica teve forte associação como fator de risco no desfecho final em termos de mortalidade e morbidade. Além disso, não foi possível estabelecer nenhuma associação positiva de melhora em pacientes com estabilidade fisiológica em relação ao momento da cirurgia.
Mensuração de simetria clavicular em indivíduos saudáveis utilizando-se de banco de dados tomográficos de hospitais públicos
Authors: Ribas Gabriel Gomes de Oliveira , Dau Leonardo , Gonçalves Felipe Fernandes , Oliveira Maria Helena Santos de , Marques Nicole Sofia Herman , Souza Geovanna Andrade Labres de
Published: August 2023

Objetivo Realizar avaliação imagiológica com intuito de comprovar a existência ou não de simetria entre as clavículas de indivíduos saudáveis da cidade de Curitiba/PR, aliada à identificação de possíveis fatores de influência no comprimento clavicular.

Método Foram analisadas tomografias computadorizadas de tórax de 211 pacientes sem fratura ou malformações na clavícula (100 mulheres e 111 homens). A maior diagonal clavicular foi medida em ambos os lados e o software gerou automaticamente a máxima distância em milímetros. Foram utilizadas frequências relativas e absolutas para descrever variáveis qualitativas e a média e intervalo de 95% de confiança para as quantitativas. As comparações foram feitas com o teste t de Student e correlações calculadas pelo coeficiente de correlação de Pearson. O nível de significância adotado foi de 5%.

Resultados Verificou-se diferença significativa entre o comprimento das clavículas (direita 143.58mm e esquerda 145.72mm, p = 0.037), indicando assimetria. Em média, o lado esquerdo é 3.71mm maior. A assimetria foi significativa tanto para homens quanto para mulheres (p < 0.001). A diferença média foi de 4.13mm para homens e 3.23mm para mulheres. 73% da amostra apresentou <5mm de diferença, enquanto 23.7% apresentou 5-10mm e 3.3% apresentou >10mm de assimetria.

Conclusão Não foi possível encontrar simetria nas clavículas da população de Curitiba/PR. Em média, a clavícula esquerda é maior que a direita, com diferenças de 3.71mm na amostra geral, 3.23mm para mulheres e 4.13mm para homens. O único fator significativo foi o sexo, com homens tendo maiores comprimentos claviculares e maiores diferenças em comparação às mulheres.
Analysis of the Variations in the Morphology, Topography of the Pterion, and Their Implications in Neurosurgery: An Osteometric Study
Authors: Aggarwal Navita , Kaur Noopinder , Patra Apurba , Gupta Monika
Published: August 2023

Objective Pterion is an “H” shaped formation of sutures located in the temporal fossa of the skull. It is an important anatomical landmark and a craniometric point. The thinness of the skull and its inner relation with the middle meningeal artery make this anatomical landmark clinically significant. Variations in the pterion are imperative, especially for neurosurgeons in order to have the most suitable craniometric point to be minimally invasive.

Materials and Methods One hundred pterions were studied to report the variations in the type and location of the pterion. Murphy's classification was used to classify the pterion into four types on the basis of bone articulation-sphenoparietal, frontotemporal, stellate, and epipteric.

Results All four types of pterions were observed, sphenoparietal being the most common. No significant gender difference was observed in terms of type and laterality of various pterions. The mean distance between the center of pterion to the superolateral point of zygomaticotemporal (PZT) suture and the anterolateral point of the frontozygomatic (PFZ) suture were 3.91 ± 3.79 cm and 3.68 ± 3.79 mm, respectively. Correlation analysis showed a strong positive relation between PZT and PFZ sutures.

Conclusion Accurate data on the morphology and morphometry of bony anatomical points are crucial, while performing intracranial surgery using them as recognizable landmarks. The morphometric parameters may help in determining the soundness of the pterion as an identifiable landmark for performing interventions like burr hole and other neurosurgical procedures in this area.
Designing a Local Policy to Reduce HIV in Mexico City
Authors: Al Mohajer Mayar
Published: August 2023

The Joint United Nations Program on human immunodeficiency virus/acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (HIV/AIDS) (Joint United Nations Program on HIV/AIDS, UNAIDS) has recommended 90–90–90 goals to increase the number of patients who are aware of their status, on antiretroviral therapy, and have undetectable viral loads. Mexico City has made several achievements to aid in prevention, early diagnosis, and treatment; however, the incidence of HIV has not decreased over the past decade. This article reviews global initiatives that were successful in achieving some or all these metrics and provide a road map for Mexico to reach the desired goals.
Successful Treatment of Recurrent Unresectable Oral Cancer with Sequential Targeted Therapy, Surgery, and Metronomic Chemotherapy
Authors: Dinker Diksha , Pai Ananth , Rajan Keshava , Kumar Naveena A.N.
Published: August 2023

A high incidence of locoregional recurrences in oral cavity cancers remains the biggest challenge leading to treatment failures post-surgery and radiotherapy. Our case report elaborates on one such recurrence pattern and the juxtaposition of various modalities applied to successfully not only eradicate the tumor but also to keep the recurrence at bay.
Undulations in tubular origami tessellations: A connection to area-preserving maps
Authors: Imada Rinki , Tachi Tomohiro
Published: August 2023

Origami tessellations, whose crease pattern has translational symmetries, have attracted significant attention in designing the mechanical properties of objects. Previous origami-based engineering applications have been designed based on the “uniform-folding” of origami tessellations, where the folding of each unit cell is identical. Although “nonuniform-folding” allows for nonlinear phenomena that are impossible through uniform-folding, there is no universal model for nonuniform-folding, and the underlying mathematics for some observed phenomena remains unclear. Wavy folded states that can be achieved through nonuniform-folding of the tubular origami tessellation called a waterbomb tube are an example. Recently, the authors formulated the kinematic coupled motion of unit cells within a waterbomb tube as the discrete dynamical system and identified a correspondence between its quasiperiodic solutions and wavy folded states. Here, we show that the wavy folded state is a universal phenomenon that can occur in the family of rotationally symmetric tubular origami tessellations. We represent their dynamical system as the composition of the two 2D mappings: taking the intersection of three spheres and crease pattern transformation. We show the universality of the wavy folded state through numerical calculations of phase diagrams and a geometric proof of the system’s conservativeness. Additionally, we present a non-conservative tubular origami tessellation, whose crease pattern includes scaling. The result demonstrates the potential of the dynamical system model as a universal model for nonuniform-folding or a tool for designing metamaterials.
Equation generator for equation-of-motion coupled cluster assisted by computer algebra system
Authors: Quintero-Monsebaiz Raúl , Loos Pierre-François
Published: August 2023

We present an equation generator algorithm that utilizes second-quantized operators in normal order with respect to a correlated or non-correlated reference and the corresponding Wick theorem. The algorithm proposed here, written with Mathematica, enables the generation of non-redundant strings of second-quantized operators that, after classification, are directly assigned to many-body term quantities used to construct the many-body Hamiltonian. We demonstrate the capabilities of the algorithm by computing the coupled-cluster amplitude equations and various blocks of the equation-of-motion many-body Hamiltonian. A comprehensive description of this four-step algorithm is provided alongside concrete examples.
The potential use of laser cladded functionally graded materials to mitigate degradation in boiler tube heat exchangers for power plant applications: A review
Authors: Morake Joseph B. , Mutua James M. , Ruthandi Martin M. , Olakanmi Eyitayo O.
Published: August 2023

Surface modification is essential to safeguard heat exchangers from premature failure spurred by deterioration mechanisms such as corrosion and wear, which diminish performance. Meanwhile, modifying some substrates with dissimilar materials is challenging due to a mismatch in material properties. Moreover, individual alloy coatings on substrates are usually insufficient in the required material properties, leading to accelerated failure of equipment, especially in power plant industries. This article summarised the knowledge base on functionally graded materials (FGMs) while emphasising how this promising class of novel materials can reduce deterioration. Additionally, laser cladding is established to be a suitable technique for processing FGMs. A particular focus is laid on the laser beam interaction with the FGM and expounding on the processing and material parameters that affect the microstructural properties of FGMs. The development prospects for processing FGMs with superior clad quality characteristics to increase boiler pipes’ service life and performance are also highlighted.
The characteristics of dynamic stability in aluminium alloy keyhole weld pool flow
Authors: Liu Jingbo , Jiang Fan , Chen Shujun , Xu Bin , Zhang Guokai
Published: August 2023

The keyhole welding process in Variable Polarity Plasma Arc Welding enhances weld quality significantly, yet it introduces pool instability. Dynamic stability is pursued by investigating molten metal flowing within keyholes and their characteristics. Weld pool flow patterns are obtained via particle tracking, while instability characteristics are captured employing a high-speed camera. Analysing directional molten metal flow unveils Convergence and Separation Points in weld pool flow. The latter's displacement induces weld pool instability, resulting in an increase in keyhole area and a reduction in the pinch angle. The keyhole area signifies pool instability, while the rear wall angle reflects the welding state. These findings provide a theoretical basis for weld control and advance vision-based intelligent manufacturing welding techniques.
Wavelength Dependence of Atomic Excitation for Ar Subject to Intense Midinfrared Laser Pulses
Authors: Liu 刘 Yang-Ni 阳妮 , Xu 许 Song-Po 松坡 , Zhu 朱 Mu-Feng 穆峰 , Xiao 肖 Zheng-Rong 峥嵘 , Yu 余 Shao-Gang 少刚 , Hua 华 Lin-Qiang 林强 , Lai 赖 Xuan-Yang 炫扬 , Quan 全 Wei 威 , Yang 杨 Wen-Xing 文星 , Liu 柳 Xiao-Jun 晓军
Published: August 2023

We report experimental and theoretical investigations of wavelength dependence of Rydberg state excitation (RSE) process of Ar subject to intense laser fields. By simultaneously measuring ionization and RSE yields of Ar atoms subject to strong laser fields at a series of wavelengths, we obtain the wavelength scaling law of the ratio of Ar* over Ar+ with respect to the laser intensity, and this result can be well reproduced by a nonadiabatic model, but not by the classical-trajectory Monte Carlo model. Our results indicate that the nonadiabatic corrections of the photoelectron tunneling exit and tunneling probability play a significant role at shorter wavelengths. Analysis shows that the wavelength dependence phenomenon is due to the interplay of the nonadiabatic effect, wave-packet diffusion and Coulomb focusing effect of the liberated electron.
Enhanced THz Radiation from Spatially Inhomogeneous Fields
Authors: Jia 贾 Guang-Rui 光瑞 , Zhao 赵 Deng-Xin 登欣 , Zhang 张 Song-Song 松松 , Yue 岳 Zi-Wei 梓巍 , Qin 秦 Chao-Chao 朝朝 , Jiao 焦 Zhao-Yong 照勇 , Bian 卞 Xue-Bin 学滨
Published: August 2023

Nonlinear terahertz (THz) radiation from gas media usually relies on the asymmetric laser-induced current produced by ultra-intense two-color laser fields with a specific phase delay. Here a new scheme is proposed and theoretically investigated, in which the radiation is generated by spatially inhomogeneous fields induced by relatively low-intensity monochromatic lasers and an array of single triangular metallic nanostructures. Our simulations are based on the classical photocurrent model and the time-dependent Schrödinger equations separately. It is found that the collective motion of the ionized electrons can be efficiently controlled by the inhomogeneous field, resulting in strong residual currents. The intensity of the THz radiation could be enhanced by about two orders of magnitude by increasing the spatial inhomogeneity of the field.
Observational constraints on non-minimally coupled curvature–matter models of gravity from the analysis of Pantheon data
Authors: Jana Biswajit , Chatterjee Anirban , Ravi Kumar , Bandyopadhyay Abhijit
Published: August 2023

We considered non-minimally coupled curvature–matter models of gravity in a Friedmann–Robertson–Walker Universe filled with perfect fluid and investigated its cosmological implications in the light of Pantheon compilation of 1048 supernova Ia (SNe Ia) data points along with 54 data points from observed Hubble data. The non-minimal curvature–matter coupling has been introduced by adding a term

to the usual action for Einstein gravity involving the Einstein–Hilbert action and minimally coupled matter action. We investigate the observational constraints on the non-minimal models by choosing two different kinds of parametrisation of fluid-pressure profiles using a dimensionless parameter k. The interplay of the three parameters

λ
,
n
,
k

plays a pivotal role in testing the consistency of non-minimally coupled fluid–curvature scenarios with the observed data. We found there exist large domains in the (

λ
,
n
,
k

)-parameter space for which models with non-minimal curvature–matter mixing stand as viable cosmological models reproducing the observed features of late-time cosmic evolution. We also commented on the possibility of ‘gravitationally induced particle creation’ in the context of SNe Ia data.
A simple calibration experiment for light dependent resistors using Malus law
Authors: Simon NZ , Ambrosio B , Hermosa N
Published: August 2023

We demonstrate the use of polarization to characterize the nonlinear response of a light dependent resistor (LDR). Previous experiments use the inverse square-dependence of the irradiance to calibrate the LDR’s response. In our study, we employ cross-polarizers to vary the irradiance incident on the surface of the LDR. We integrate the LDR into a simple voltage divider circuit and measure the voltage response as we rotate one of the cross-polarizers. We derive expressions that relate the voltage measurements to the angle between the polarizers. Our analytical predictions greatly match with the results obtained from the experiments; we then apply least squares method to get the calibration constants associated with the LDR’s nonlinear response. Finally, we discuss the advantages of our technique and emphasize its pedagogical benefits for high school and undergraduate laboratory courses.
Visualization of cylindrical resonances
Authors: Vila Brais
Published: August 2023

The analysis of cylindrical resonators is part of standard physics curricula but, unlike for their rectangular counterpart, their mode structure is hardly ever visualized. The aim of this work is to show a way of doing it, providing a set of interactive web applications and citing potential use cases in the form of both academic courses and published research. These cover several branches of physics and engineering, showing that these materials can be useful for a broad audience.
Enhancing seed germination and growth parameters of cauliflower (Brassica oleracea, variety Botrytis) using plasma-activated water
Authors: Chalise Roshan , Shrestha Pooja , Sharma Sangat , Basnet Suresh , Mishra Lekha Nath , Khanal Raju
Published: August 2023

The effects of plasma-activated water (PAW), generated through atmospheric pressure air gliding arc discharge, on the germination and growth parameters of cauliflower (Brassica oleracea, variety Botrytis) seeds have been investigated. Results demonstrate significant influences of PAW on seed germination characteristics and seedling growth parameters. Increasing the exposure time of seeds to plasma from 0 to 20 min leads to a notable increment in the water uptake rate, ranging from approximately 94.0% to 115.0%. Furthermore, the physio-chemical characteristics of PAW are examined, revealing its transformation into acidic solutions, accompanied by rising electrical conductivity, oxidation-reduction potential, total dissolved solids, and nitrate and nitrite concentrations with longer treatment times. Notably, applying PAW for 10–15 min results in higher seed germination and seedling growth. Comparative experiments involving PAW and control water demonstrate enhanced germination, increased root and shoot lengths, and elevated chlorophyll content. However, prolonged exposure to PAW shows adverse effects. Cauliflower plants treated with 10 min and 15 min of PAW exhibit the highest chlorophyll concentration, root and shoot lengths. These findings underscore the potential of PAW to improve seed germination and plant growth, emphasizing the importance of adjusting the plasma treatment period for each specific seed.
Impacts of environmental decontamination on the rebuilding of returnees’ lives after the Fukushima accident
Authors: Takada Momo , Kuroda Yujiro , Kanai Yumiko , Yasutaka Tetsuo
Published: August 2023

Environmental decontamination after a nuclear disaster not only contributes to reducing the public’s exposure to radiation, it also introduces waste disposal issues arising from the decontamination process. In addition to that issue, the optimisation of decontamination efforts necessitates the consideration of various environmental, economic, and societal factors. Stakeholders’ perspectives are important for identifying the multifaceted aspects to be considered. We conducted a semi-structured interview survey in 2019 with ten residents in a rural community in Fukushima, Japan, which experienced a six-year-long evacuation due to the 2011 Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant accident. The main survey questions addressed returnees’ perceptions of the decontamination of farmlands and forests. The ‘Steps for Coding and Theorization’ procedure was used for qualitative analysis. The analysis illuminated the positive and negative impacts of the decontamination process on the rebuilding of the returnees’ rural lives from various perspectives and identified elements to be considered for the optimisation of future remediation efforts. The removal of radioactive materials had a positive psychological impact on the returnees, fostering a sense of security that their crops were safe and instilling confidence that the high-quality environment of the region had been restored. These aspects were not included among the initial governmental objectives for decontamination, which were aimed solely at reducing radiation exposure. By contrast, the removal of fertile topsoil from farmland had a negative impact on the residents, making them hesitant to resume farming. Our findings suggest that emphasising procedural fairness in decision-making of decontamination options such as reflection of stakeholders’ opinions led to residents perceiving their post-decontamination situation more positively. Our results provide valuable insights for optimising remediation strategies for the recovery process following a significant nuclear accident.
Evaluation of COSMIC-2 performance in detecting atmospheric boundary layer height and analysis of its variation
Authors: Zhang Zhen , Gao Fan , Xu Tianhe , Li Song , Qin Jin , Wang Nazi
Published: August 2023

The atmospheric boundary layer (ABL) height (ABLH) is an essential index for climate and weather studies in the troposphere. Obtaining abundant and precise observations is crucial for modeling the top of the ABL. The radio occultation can provide observation data of Earth’s atmosphere with high vertical resolution and comprehensive spatial coverage, benefiting from its measurement mode. Thanks to the improved quality of Constellation Observing System for Meteorology, Ionosphere, and Climate (COSMIC)-2 lower atmosphere observations, its substantial amount and higher-quality atmospheric profile data are well suited for ABLH detection. Therefore, 1.4 million COSMIC-2 refractivity profiles from October 2019 to September 2020 were employed to determine the ABLH, and its retrieval performance is assessed using the official COSMIC-2 product (zbalmax) and radiosonde data. The retrieval results show that most of the effectively detected ABLH occultation events occur over the ocean. Comparing COSMIC-2 ABLH and zbalmax, consistent accuracy is found with a standard deviation of 0.22 km. Similar biases are observed each month. And the inversion accuracy in the Northern Hemisphere is higher than in the Southern Hemisphere. The ABLH derived from radiosonde data and COSMIC-2 has a high correlation coefficient of no less than 0.75. The better accuracy happened in the DJF (i.e. from December to February) for both comparisons with two datasets. Additionally, the distribution and seasonal variations were revealed by modeling verified COSMIC-2 ABLH. The fifth generation European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF) atmospheric reanalysis of the global climate (ERA5) surface temperature and self-calibrated Palmer Drought Severity Index are used to analyze the impact of temperature and drought on ABLH. The results indicate that higher surface temperatures lead to a smaller ABLH, whereas drought at the surface leads to a larger ABLH. Therefore, the higher precision ABLH can be derived from COSMIC-2 after verification, and we can reveal its seasonal variation and influencing factors on this basis.
Parameter identification method of nonuniform and under-sampled blade tip timing based on extended DFT and compressed sensing
Authors: Zhang Jiwang , Zhang Xu , Ding Keqin , Wang Rongren
Published: August 2023

Vibration amplitude and frequency are the two most important indicators that characterize the health status of high-speed rotating blades, but the signal obtained by blade tip timing (BTT) technology, one of the best rotating blade vibration monitoring methods, is seriously nonuniform and under-sampled, which makes these two indicators difficult to identify. In view of this problem, the paper proposes a parameter identification method for the nonuniform and under-sampled BTT signal based on extended Discrete Fourier transform and compressed sensing (CS), with the Fourier integral transformation as the goal. It realizes the frequency analysis of nonuniform under-sampled signals by constructing and optimizing the transformation basis function instead of the exponential basis in the traditional FFT transformation in the extended frequency range, and then constructs a CS model through the obtained blade vibration frequency. The complete waveform of the blade vibration is restored by using a small number of under-sampled signals, thus obtaining the blade vibration amplitude and vibration frequency. On the one hand, the method proposed in this paper breaks through the limitation of Nyquist’s sampling theorem, and the number of analytical spectral lines is no longer limited to the number of sampling points, which improves the frequency resolution. On the other hand, only a small number of measurement signals can be reconstructed to achieve a complete vibration signal. The feasibility and reliability of the proposed method are verified by mathematical modeling, simulation analysis, and experimental testing. The results indicate that when the number of sensors is greater than or equal to four, the time domain and frequency domain signals of blade vibration can be accurately analyzed based on the proposed method, the vibration amplitude error is less than 0.01 mm, the frequency error is less than 0.1 Hz, and it has good anti-interference performance.
An atomistic-continuum concurrent statistical coupling technique for amorphous materials using anchor points
Authors: Aditya Sankha Subhra , Sohail Tanvir , Roy Samit
Published: August 2023

A generalized framework for anchor point based concurrent coupling of finite element method (FEM) and molecular dynamics (MD) domains, incorporating previous related methods, is presented. The framework is robust and is agnostic of material crystallinity and atomistic description. The method follows an iterative approach to minimize the total energy of the coupled FEM-MD system, while maintaining displacement constraints between the domains. Two distinct forms of the coupling method are discussed in detail, differing in the nature of the constraint, both of which are able to make use of specialized MD solvers such as LAMMPS with little or no modification. Both methods make use of springs that join groups of atoms in the MD to the FEM domain. Method 1, termed ‘Direct Coupling’, couples MD anchor points directly to the FEM domain in a force-based manner and has the added advantage of being able to couple to specialized FEM solvers such as ABAQUS. Method 2 couples the MD to the FEM domain in a more ‘soft’ manner using the method of Lagrange multipliers and least squares approximation. The relative performance of these two methods are tested against each other in a uniaxial tension test using a graphene monolayer at 300 K temperature and a block of thermosetting polymer EPON862 at low temperature, showing comparable results. Convergence behaviour of the two coupling methods are studied and presented. The methods are then applied to the fracture of a centre-cracked graphene monolayer and compared with results from an identical pure MD simulation. The results corroborate the effectiveness of the developed method and potential use as a plug-and-play tool to couple pre-existing specialized FEM and MD solvers. Future work will focus on applying these methods to simulate elevated-temperature amorphous polymer models and their brittle fracture.
Hybrid tungsten–carbon 2D nanostructures via in situ gasification of carbon substrates driven by ebeam irradiation of WO2.9 microparticles
Authors: Gonzalez-Martinez Ignacio , Weinel Kristina , Feng Wen , Agudo-Jácome Leonardo , Gemming Thomas , Büchner Bernd
Published: August 2023

Since the transmission electron microscope (TEM) has the capacity to observe the atomic structure of materials, in situ TEM synthesis methods are uniquely suited to advance our fundamental understanding of the bottom-up dynamics that drive the formation of nanostructures. E-beam induced fragmentation (potentially identified as a manifestation of Coulomb explosion) and electron stimulated desorption are phenomena that have received attention because they trigger chemical and physical reactions that can lead to the production of various nanostructures. Here we report a simple TEM protocol implemented on WO2.9 microparticles supported on thin amorphous carbon substrates. The method produces various nanostructures such as WC nanoparticles, WC supported films and others. Nevertheless, we focus on the gradual graphitization and gasification of the C substrate as it interacts with the material expelled from the WO2.9 microparticles. The progressive gasification transforms the substrate from amorphous C down to hybrid graphitic nanoribbons incorporating W nanoparticles. We think these observations open interesting possibilities for the synthesis of 2D nanomaterials in the TEM.
Rate of convergence in periodic homogenization for convex Hamilton–Jacobi equations with multiscales
Authors: Han Yuxi , Jang Jiwoong
Published: August 2023

We study the rate of convergence in periodic homogenization for convex Hamilton–Jacobi equations with multiscales, where the Hamiltonian

H
=
H
(
x
,
y
,
p
)
:

R

n

×

T

n

×

R

n

→

R

depends on both of the spatial variable and the oscillatory variable. In particular, we show that for the Cauchy problem, the rate of convergence is

O
(
t

ϵ

)

by optimal control formulas, scale separations and curve cutting techniques. We also show the rate

O
(

ϵ

λ

)

of homogenization for the static problem based on the same idea. Additionally, we provide examples that illustrate the rate of convergence for the Cauchy problem is optimal for

0
<
t
<

ϵ

and

t
∼

ϵ

.
Size effect and electrical ageing of PDMS dielectric elastomer with competing failure modes
Authors: Taine Emmanuel , Andritsch Thomas , Saeedi Istebreq A , Morshuis Peter H F
Published: August 2023

Large-scale dielectric elastomer generators dielectric elastomer generators (DEGs) such as those employed in wave energy converter projects require a significant volume of electrically stressed materials. Meanwhile, predictions of energy output from such systems are generally extrapolated from electrical and mechanical breakdown measurements performed on small scale samples, where the presence of small defects can be extremely small. This can lead to overly optimistic upscaled predictions for the performance and reliability of full-scale devices. In this study, multilayer DEGs were prepared to evaluate the dielectric breakdown strength of thin polydimethylsiloxane PDMS elastomer at different values of active areas. The results indicated the presence of two separate breakdown mechanisms resulting in an enhanced size effect and a reduced reliability for the larger samples. Electrical ageing tests were performed on three different sample geometries and the dielectric breakdown strength was found to be marginally affected by the time under stress. A Weibull competing failure model was applied to the distribution of experimental breakdowns and electrical reliability was accurately modeled over more than four decades of variation in the electrode area.
A piezoelectric–electromagnetic hybrid energy harvester inspired by flapping motion of the Diptera insect
Authors: Fang Jiwen , Fan Bo , Li Chong , Lv Mingming
Published: August 2023

Low-frequency vibration is widespread in nature. Vibration energy harvesting is considered to be a reliable and sustainable method to achieve continuous power supply. It is a feasible method to design an energy harvesting system of the bio-inspired mechanical structure to improve the efficiency of energy harvesting. A hybrid energy harvester piezoelectric–electromagnetic that mimics the flapping wing motion of the Diptera insect. The biomimetic energy harvesting device consists of two piezoelectric cantilever beams structure with the mass block installed, which mimics the flapping movement mechanism of the Diptera insect. The intermediate part of this harvester inspired by the insect skeleton and muscle structure of the Diptera insect is composed of magnetic levitation coupled repulsion structure, which is easily affected by vibration and changes greatly, to realize electromagnetic energy harvesting. The ‘click’ mechanism of the Diptera insect is constructed by storing energy in springs to improve the performance of energy harvesting devices. The hybrid energy harvesting device realizes piezoelectric–electromagnetic energy harvesting with multiple energy outputs at one excitation input. A dynamic model of the proposed energy harvester is constructed based on the electromechanical coupling characteristics. The modal analysis and structure optimization of this device is realized by the finite element method (FEM). The FEM simulation and experimental results can verify that under the low-frequency excitation of 3 Hz, the maximum output power of the designed harvester reaches 12.33 mW in the low-frequency environment.
An integral representation for quantum amplitudes
Authors: Straton Jack C
Published: August 2023

The central impediment to reducing multidimensional integrals of transition amplitudes to analytic form, or at least to a fewer number of integral dimensions, is the presence of magnitudes of coordinate vector differences (square roots of polynomials)

∣

x

1

−

x

2

∣
=

x

1

2

−
2

x

1

x

2

cos
θ
+

x

2

2

in disjoint products of functions. Fourier transforms circumvent this by introducing a three-dimensional momentum integral for each of those products, followed in many cases by another set of integral representations to move all of the resulting denominators into a single quadratic form in one denominator whose square my be completed. Gaussian transforms introduce a one-dimensional integral for each such function while squaring the square roots of coordinate vector differences and moving them into a common exponential. Addition theorems may also be used for extracting the angular variables, and sometimes direct integration is even possible. Each method has its strengths and weaknesses. An integral representation is derived herein that stands as an alternative to these four approaches. A number of consequent integrals of Macdonald functions, hypergeometric functions, and Meijer G-functions with complicated arguments are given.
A reliable method for voltage of telegraph equation in one and two space variables in electrical transmission: approximate and analytical approach
Authors: Jena Saumya Ranjan , Sahu Itishree
Published: August 2023

In this paper we investigate approximate analytical solution so called voltage in one and two space variables for linear and nonlinear telegraph equations by a reliable method namely Modified Laplace Decomposition Method (MLDM) using MATLAB and MATHEMATICA software tools. The MLDM is a mixture of Laplace transform with modified Adomian decomposition method based on Newton Raphson method. The nonlinearity of the problem is tackled by Adomian decomposition and approximate analytical solution to the partial differential equation handled by using the Laplace and inverse Laplace transform technique without differentiation in time domain. We use Newton Raphson method in the domain of Adomian polynomial to modify it. Theoretical concepts for the approximate analytical solution of present scheme are well behaved through stability and convergence analysis. Five numerical examples are carried out in order to check the effectiveness and applicability of the proposed scheme. The telegraph equation with one space variable is solved numerically whereas the approximate analytical solution obtained for two space variables. Employing MLDM, it is possible to obtain the approximate analytical solution (i.e., voltage) of a telegraph equation and found to be in good agreement with exact solutions and also compared with earlier studies for one space variable.
Kinematics in metric-affine geometry
Authors: Agashe Anish
Published: August 2023

In a given geometry, the kinematics of a congruence of curves is described by a set of three quantities called expansion, rotation, and shear. The equations governing the evolution of these quantities are referred to as kinematic equations. In this paper, the kinematics of congruence of curves in a metric-affine geometry are analysed. Without assuming an underlying theory of gravity, we derive a generalised form of the evolution equations for expansion, namely, Raychaudhuri equation (timelike congruences) and Sachs optical equation (null congruences). The evolution equations for rotation and shear of both timelike and null congruences are also derived. Generalising the deviation equation, we find that torsion and non-metricity contribute to a relative acceleration between neighbouring curves. We briefly discuss the interpretation of the expansion scalars and derive an equation governing angular diameter distances. The effects of torsion and non-metricity on the distances are found to be dependent on which curves are chosen as photon trajectories. We also show that the rotation of a hypersurface orthogonal congruence (timelike or null) is a purely non-Riemannian feature.
Investigating the optoelectronic properties of NiOEP/n-Si heterojunctions for solar cell applications
Authors: Alghamdi Nawal , Darwish A A A , Hamdalla Taymour A
Published: August 2023

Currently, the use of more efficient materials such as metal-doped porphyrins has led to improved performance of heterojunction cells. In this context, a thin film of Nickel-Octa-ethyl porphyrins (NiOEP) has been deposited onto a silicon substrate to be used in solar cells due to their unique structural and optoelectronic properties. The structural and surface characteristics have been analyzed through XRD and SEM studies. XRD confirmed that NiOEP film has a crystallinity degree of 78%. The capacitance–voltage of NiOEP/n-Si HJSC was investigated, and the built-in voltage and carrier concentration was calculated as 4.38×1021 m−3 and 0.50 V, respectively. Additionally, we utilized techniques such as Norde and Shockley to evaluate our composite’s electronic and optoelectronic properties. J-V characteristics of the investigated diode were examined in dark and illumination conditions of about 100 mW cm−2. NiOEP/n-Si HJSC could represent a promising solution to meet the demand for solar cells.
Tighter monogamy inequalities of multiqubit entanglement
Authors: Li Jia-Yi , Shen Zhong-Xi , Fei Shao-Ming
Published: August 2023

Multipartite entanglement holds great importance in quantum information processing. The distribution of entanglement among subsystems can be characterized by monogamy relations. Based on the βth power of concurrence and negativity, we provide two new monogamy inequalities. Through detailed examples, we demonstrate that these inequalities are tighter than previous results.