bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Effects of short‐course virtual reality or video‐box training on basic laparoscopic skills and simulated surgical performance in veterinary students
Authors: Hottmann Natasha M. , Fransson Boel A. 
Published: December 2024

AbstractObjectiveTo compare novices' performance on simulated laparoscopic tasks with a box trainer and virtual reality (VR) trainer before and after training on one system, and to compare performance between groups following training.Study designRandomized, prospective study.Sample populationTwelve veterinary students without prior hands‐on laparoscopic experience were randomly assigned to the box or VR training group.MethodsPerformance of basic laparoscopic tasks on box and VR trainers and simulated surgical task were scored before and after completion of a designated training program. Scores for each task were compared within and between groups.ResultsThe box group's post‐training scores were higher than pretraining scores for all box tasks. The VR group's post‐training scores were higher than pretraining scores for most VR tasks. Median post‐training scores were higher in the box group than the VR group for all box tasks. Median post‐training scores were higher for the VR group than the box group only for VR intracorporeal suturing. Neither program led to a substantial improvement in simulated surgical task performance.ConclusionIn this study the box trainer seemed more effective than the VR trainer for training novices to perform most basic tasks. The lack of substantial improvement of simulated surgical task performance is likely related to study limitations including small sample size and short training timeline.ImpactBoth training systems increased basic laparoscopic skills in novices. Laparoscopic simulation training may be applicable within veterinary school curricula. Additional studies are warranted to assess these systems with different tasks and trainee experience.
Clinically relevant evaluation of the antimicrobial and anti‐inflammatory properties of nanocrystalline and nanomolecular silver
Authors: Pletts Matthew W. , Burrell Robert E. 
Published: December 2024

AbstractBurns and chronic wounds present significant challenges in wound management due to risks of infection, excessive inflammation, and prolonged healing. Silver‐based treatments have long been central to burn care, but limitations have prompted the exploration of nanocrystalline silver as an alternative, with its nanoscale properties offering distinct benefits. This paper reviews the structure, properties, mechanisms of action, and clinical applications of nanocrystalline silver in burn and general wound management, with particular emphasis on how wound healing processes inform the application of these dressings. Nanocrystalline silver's high surface area‐to‐volume ratio and crystal structure enhance its antimicrobial and anti‐inflammatory efficacy. Nanocrystalline silver's mechanisms of action are disrupting cellular functions, inducing DNA damage, and inhibiting biofilms. Clinical studies demonstrate accelerated healing and reduced inflammation compared to traditional treatments. Whilst nanocrystalline silver dressings are costly, their effectiveness in lowering drug‐resistant infections and minimising complications supports a financial case for their use, potentially reducing overall wound care expenses. Considerations of cytotoxicity, allergic reactions, and accessibility underscore the importance of individualised treatment selection based on wound and patient factors. In conclusion, nanocrystalline silver holds substantial promise in burn wound management, and further research is warranted to optimise its therapeutic potential and economic benefits in clinical practice.
On the Generation of Tuned Test Problems for Stress Concentrations Induced by Shear Tractions
Authors: Kardak A. A. , Sinclair G. B. 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
When stress concentration factors are not available in handbooks, finite element analysis has become the predominant method for determining their values. For such determinations, there is a need to know if they have sufficient accuracy. Tuned test problems can provide a way of assessing the accuracy of stress concentration factors found with finite elements. Previously, we offered a means of constructing such test problems for stress concentrations within boundaries that have local constant radii of curvature, and are subjected to tensile loading. Here we extend the means of construction for the same local geometry, but now with the stress concentrations being induced by shear loading. These new test problems are tuned to their originating shear applications by sharing the same global geometries and having slightly higher peak stresses. Consequently, they are a little more challenging to analyze with finite elements than their originating shear applications. These test problems also have exact solutions. Thus a precise determination can be made of the errors incurred in their finite element analysis. Given the increased challenge of these test problems, their errors are likely to serve as upper bounds on the errors incurred when their originating configurations are analyzed with the same set of finite element meshes.
Optimization Algorithm-Based Fault-Tolerant Resilient Control for Helicopter System: The Finite-Time Case
Authors: Satheesh T. , Anisha T. M. , Sakthivel R. , Elayabharath V. T. , Ren Y. 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
This paper centers on the finite-time control problem of the helicopter system in the midst of external disturbances, gain fluctuations, and actuator faults. Precisely, the finite-time boundedness and input–output finite-time stability are obtained concurrently to preclude huge undesirable values for both state and output, respectively, during specific transients. In particular, a particle swarm optimization setup is put forward for lowering the cost function and enhancing the overall reliability of the system. Furthermore, the fault-tolerant resilient control scheme is tailored to exhibit strong resistance to failures in the actuator and variations in the gain matrix. By blending the Lyapunov stability theory with the concept of finite time, we attain the essential requirements to ensure the stability of the closed-loop system over a finite span of time. Subsequently, the explicit methodology for obtaining the gain matrix is laid out pursuant to the established requirements. In particular, simulation results are presented to analyze the potential and significance of the devised control scheme.
Chaos Detection in Generalized ψ-Fractional Differential Systems
Authors: N'Gbo N'Gbo , Li Changpin , Cai Min 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
This article focuses on investigating fractional Lyapunov exponents for generalized ψ-fractional differential systems. By employing a new and more suitable definition, we derive an expression for the fractional Lyapunov exponents using the inverse of the Mittag-Leffler function, which depends on the kernel, weight, and order of the considered fractional derivative. We also provide an upper bound for the obtained fractional Lyapunov exponents that is tighter than the one available in existing literature. Finally, experiments conducted on a hyperchaotic 5D system and the well-known Lorenz system serve to illustrate and verify our main results.
Comparison of a Full-Scale and a 1:10 Scale Low-Speed Two-Stroke Marine Engine Using Computational Fluid Dynamics
Authors: Dal Forno Chuahy Flavio , Finney Charles E. A. , Kaul Brian C. , Kass Michael D. 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
International marine shipping is a growing component of international trade; a vast majority of all the world’s goods are being transported on large ocean-going vessels. The International Maritime Organization (IMO) introduced the Energy Efficiency Design Index in 2013, a regulatory framework of associated metrics for reducing emissions of CO2 per tonne-mile from shipping by approximately 10% each decade. Therefore, decarbonizing the maritime sector requires the development of new fuel sources. Because of the extremely large physical size of the internal combustion engines present in shipping vessels, experimental iterative development of the engine and fuel system is cost-prohibitive. Thus, the ability to perform combustion system development in a scaled platform that can be more easily operated and modeled computationally is of interest. To that end, scaling relationships are needed to translate the results from a smaller engine to a larger counterpart. Scaling studies to date have been restricted to low scaling ratios, four-stroke light-duty engines, and under-resolved computational fluid dynamic simulations that likely do not accurately capture the physics of scaling. In this work, computational models of a 1:10 scale and a full-scale two-stroke crosshead low-speed marine engine were created and validated against experiments obtained in a real 1:10 scale engine installed at Oak Ridge National Laboratory. Due to the large size of the full-scale engine, the model required large high-performance computing resources to be evaluated. The availability of high-performance computing resources at the Department of Energy’s Leadership Computing Facilities is an enabler of the current work. The results of the small- and large-scale engine simulations were compared to analyze the effectiveness of the appropriate scaling laws under these extreme scaling ratio conditions.
A Mini Review of Flexible Heat Spreaders Based on Functionalized Boron Nitride Nanosheets
Authors: Wu Mengying , Gao Jingyao , Dai Wen , Ma Hongbing , Nishimura Kazuhito , Yu Jinhong , Tang Ya , Jiang Nan , Lin Cheng-Te 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
This review provides a comprehensive overview of the recent progresses in flexible heat spreaders based on functionalized boron nitride nanosheets (f-BNNSs) and provides insights into the potential of this material for efficient thermal management solutions. The unique thermal properties of boron nitride nanosheets (BNNSs), such as high thermal conductivity and excellent mechanical flexibility, make them promising materials for heat dissipation. Various methods of functionalizing BNNSs to enhance their thermal and mechanical properties are discussed, including covalent functionalization and noncovalent functionalization. The numerous advanced methods to introduce f-BNNSs into polymers and the potential applications of the composites based on f-BNNSs in areas such as thermal management in electronic devices are also highlighted.
Laser Surface Texturing in Single-Point Incremental Sheet Forming
Authors: Li Weining , Jwad Tahseen , Dimov Stefan , Essa Khamis 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Single-point incremental sheet forming (SPIF) offers high flexibility, cost-effectiveness, mass customization, ease of setup, and scalability. However, the process can result in poor surface characteristics, making it important to control them, especially for applications requiring enhanced wettability. To overcome this challenge, the present study introduces a novel technique that uses laser surface texturing (LST) to create micropatterns on the SPIF forming tool and replicate on the planar surface of workpiece. After SPIF process on the opposite side of the workpiece, the replicated micropatterns are maintained without significant effect to the laser textures and keep the surface's wettability. The 3D surface topography of the imprinted micropatterns was characterized. Additionally, a sessile drop test was performed to assess the wettability of the surface both before and after the deformation process. The results showed that a functionalized micropatterned surface can be achieved using the proposed technique without affecting the geometric accuracy. No cracks were observed on the workpiece surface, but during the SPIF process, deformation stretched the imprinted microvalleys, leading to a slight decrease in hydrophobicity compared to the original LST surface.
Design and Implementation of an Experimental Test Bench for the Study of Active Flow Control in Scale Wind Turbines
Authors: Franco Jesus Alejandro , Salinas-Anaya Gael 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Advancements in wind turbine technology are critical for the global renewable energy landscape. The continuous growth of wind turbine capacities has presented various challenges for flow and power control strategies. New smart systems are mandatory to monitor and control loads and power effectively to guarantee optimal operation in current wind generation systems. While several methods have been proposed, experimental validation remains challenging due to operation costs, size, and time required to fabricate a fully scaled wind turbine prototype. Concerning this, the implementation of reduced-scaled wind turbine test benches offers an alternative to validate new flow control strategies for optimizing the efficiency of wind turbines. This paper presents the design and implementation of a wind turbine test bench for active flow control systems in small-scale wind turbines. The system includes a multidegree mounting system, a dynamic torque sensor, a permanent magnet generator, a pitch control system, and a configurable hub for different wind rotor designs. The design includes a finite element method (FEM) analysis to evaluate the different configurations of the proposed system. As a result, the implementation of the complete functional structure, dynamic sensors, and complementary elements is presented. Finally, an approach to the scaling methodology is revealed based on the mathematical criteria of similarity conditions between a lab-scale wind turbine model and a reference prototype, providing useful information on scaling techniques for wind turbines.
Experimental Investigation of the Effect of Rake on a Bluff Body Equipped With a Diffuser
Authors: Kekus-Kumor Pawel , Angland David 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
This article presents the results of an experimental investigation into the impact of rake, or inclination of the underfloor, on the aerodynamics of a bluff body equipped with an underbody diffuser. An extensive wind tunnel campaign, utilizing a remotely actuated model for faster data acquisition, showed that introducing rake results in a downforce increase at all ride heights and diffuser angles, with the strongest effect occurring at low ride heights. Surface pressure measurements on the underbody revealed this to be caused by three main effects. First, a large increase in loading at the front of the floor, due to the inclination of the floor with rake angle and subsequently an increase in the pressure pumping effect. Second, a reduction in the suction peak at the throat of the diffuser, which leads to reduced pressure recovery in the diffuser, and less likely separation at high diffuser angles or low ride heights. Third, stronger streamwise vortices along the edges of the underfloor and diffuser, which generate downforce directly due to their low-pressure cores, but also introduce upwash under the model, further inhibiting separation in the diffuser. As the related drag penalty is minimal, aerodynamic efficiency is also improved with increasing rake angle.
Shock Vector Control of a Double Divergent Nozzle for Futuristic Space Vehicles
Authors: Das Arnab K. , Mankodi Tapan K. , Saha Ujjwal K. 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Double divergent nozzles (DDNs) have been explored in the recent years to enhance the launch capabilities of space vehicles. A DDN is touted to be beneficial for launch vehicles over a single divergent nozzle (SDN) because of its ability to mitigate the generation of side loads. In order to maintain stability under varying nozzle pressure ratios (NPRs) and control the attitude for such systems, thrust vectoring on a DDN becomes very important, which still remains an open area of research. Shock vector control (SVC) is the simplest of all fluidic thrust vectoring (FTV) techniques, which is used to deflect the nozzle's primary flow by the generation of a shock wave. The present study is conducted on the SVC of a two-dimensional (2D) planar DDN. Three different DDNs are considered by varying the base nozzle and the extension nozzle lengths for a fixed value of the inflection Mach number (IMN). It is observed that the SVC performance of a DDN depends on the location of the inflection point, indicating that it is the function of the lengths of the base nozzle and the extension nozzle. In the high NPR regime, the pitch thrust vector angles are the highest for the DDN configuration in which the base and the extension nozzles have equal lengths. At the highest tested NPR = 10, this DDN configuration achieves a pitch thrust vector angle which is approximately 50.46% higher than a reference SDN of similar nozzle area expansion ratio.
Modeling and Experimental Validation of Flow Ripple in a Variable Displacement Linkage Pump
Authors: Herrera-Perez Martin , Boyce-Erickson Grey , Van de Ven James 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
The optimal operation of hydraulic systems heavily relies on the performance of their pumps and motors. However, these machines often encounter a phenomenon known as flow ripple that causes periodic fluctuations in the outlet flowrate of the pumps, negatively impacting system components and contributing to operational inefficiencies. This prevalent challenge highlights the need for accurate flow ripple modeling and the development of effective mitigation strategies. This paper presents a combined modeling and experimental approach to characterize the influence of the velocity trajectory of pistons in a positive displacement pump on the flow ripple. The study considers a three-cylinder variable displacement linkage pump (VDLP). The model combines the kinematics of the pump linkage mechanism, the pressure dynamics in its piston chambers, and the dynamics of the inlet and outlet check valves to predict the cylinder pressures and individual cylinder flow rates. A prototype VDLP was instrumented and tested to validate the simulation models. Two cylinders of the pump were deactivated, enabling the pump to run with a single pumping element to isolate the flow profile from a single cylinder, allowing for a more direct comparison of simulation versus experimental data. Experiments were run across a range of operating pressures and pump displacements. The results demonstrated a good agreement between the simulation and experimental data, with a normalized mean absolute error (NMAE) between 7% and 30% at the corner conditions. The validated models enable future optimization of the piston trajectory in the VDLP design used as an example architecture in this study to minimize flow ripple.
Computational Simulation of the Hemodynamics in an Anatomic Carotid Artery Model: A Biphasic Blood Model
Authors: Ferreira Mariana , Carvalho Violeta , Pinho Diana , Lima Rui , Teixeira Senhorinha , Soares Armando A. 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Numerical simulation of carotid artery bifurcation is essential for understanding blood flow dynamics in this complex region, aiding in identifying patterns associated with stress points and atherosclerosis risk. This information is valuable for developing preventive and therapeutic strategies for vascular diseases, as well as optimizing medical devices and surgical interventions. Simulations offer insights into blood flow at the carotid bifurcation, advancing biomedical research and clinical applications. Engineers use computational tools to address multiphase flow complexities, supporting efficient device design, quick simulations, and cost-effective exploration of fluid dynamics across phases. In this study, carotid artery hemodynamics were analyzed using a biphasic blood model (plasma and erythrocytes) via ansys software. Wall shear stresses (WSSs), strain rates (SRs), and red blood cells (RBCs) distribution were examined. Results showed that while strain rates were similar in both phases, wall shear stresses differed: plasma shear stress was about 7.17 times higher than that due to RBCs, and strain rates in plasma were approximately 2.2 times higher than in RBCs. Additionally, the pressure in RBCs was about 0.39% higher than in plasma. These findings highlight distinct hemodynamic behaviors in each phase, contributing to a deeper understanding of blood flow mechanics at the carotid bifurcation.
Increasing Reported Physical Activity Among Australian Adults: Progress Toward a Healthy Older Age
Authors: Halim Nicole , Owen Katherine B. , Smith Ben J. , Thomas Margaret , Tiedemann Anne , Sherrington Catherine , Bauman Adrian E. 
Published: December 2024

Background/Objectives: A globally aging population necessitates public health action that supports healthy aging. Although it is well established that participation in physical activity (PA), sport, and active recreation are important for healthy aging, PA levels remain generally lower among older adults. This study examines trends in physical activities that older adults engage in and identifies disparities in activities across subgroups as defined by age, gender, and socioeconomic status. Methods: Data from two New South Wales survey data sets (New South Wales Population Health Survey and AusPlay) investigated patterns and trends of PA, sport, and active recreation between 2016 and 2021 among adults aged 65+ years. Weighted prevalence estimates of meeting PA guidelines (≥150 min/week of moderate to vigorous PA), weekly minutes spent walking and doing moderate to vigorous PA, and annual participation rates in specific activities were calculated as weighted proportions. Multivariable logistic regression models included age, gender, and socioeconomic status as independent variables. Results: Between 2016 and 2021, the proportion of older adults meeting PA guidelines increased (37.8%–51.3%). Adults aged 75+ years, older men, and those living in the least disadvantaged areas experienced greater increases in moderate to vigorous PA. Conclusions: Older adults’ reported PA levels have increased in recent years, highlighting opportunities to prioritize PA promotion in the global agenda to support healthy and active aging. Significance/Implications: This study offers insights into recent trends and noteworthy increases in PA, sport, and active recreation among older Australian adults. These can assist policymakers in developing, evaluating, and implementing population-wide strategies to maintain improved activity levels.