Approach Angle Research Articles

An Innovative Dynamic Model for Predicting Typhoon Track Deflections over Complex Terrain

This study presents an innovative, dynamic model for predicting typhoon track deflections over complex terrain. Based on potential vorticity conservation, the model incorporates a topographic adjusting parameter (α) and a meridional adjusting velocity (MAV) to capture the vortex’s response to terrain variations. Simulations using an idealized bell-shaped mountain and Taiwan’s realistic topography reveal that steeper terrain gradients consistently deflect typhoon tracks southward. This steering effect intensifies with increasing vortex strength due to a larger α, leading to enhanced MAV. Shallower approach angles also amplify deflections due to prolonged terrain interaction. Results highlight the significant role of Taiwan’s Central Mountain Range in shaping typhoon trajectories. This model offers a refined approach for predicting typhoon behavior near complex terrain, advancing forecasting capabilities, and enhancing disaster preparedness strategies.

Mechanism of airfoil stall flutter: New insights from global linear stability analysis

Stall flutter is a self-excited aeroelastic vibration phenomenon that occurs in lifting systems near the stall angle of attack, characterized by the distinct single-degree-of-freedom behavior. Despite its significance, this phenomenon remains not fully understood and is often vaguely attributed to nonlinear effects. To address this gap, the present study aims to reveal the underlying fluid–structure interaction mechanisms of stall flutter through global linear stability analysis (LSA). For this purpose, a reduced-order model (ROM)-based aeroelastic stability analysis framework is established using the autoregressive with exogenous input method. The ROM-based aeroelastic model provides a low-order representation of the coupled dynamics near the equilibrium steady state and can accurately capture the stability characteristics of the fluid-elastic system. It is found that as the angle of attack approaches the static stall angle, a low-frequency weakly stable fluid mode emerges, whose frequency is sufficiently lower than that of the von Kármán vortex shedding. The interaction between this fluid mode and the structure mode ultimately leads to the instability of the aeroelastic system at high reduced velocities, which is the fundamental cause of stall flutter. Moreover, dynamic mode decomposition is employed to successfully extract the spatial coherent structures and frequency characteristics of this low-frequency fluid mode, thereby confirming the validity of the LSA results. Further analysis indicates that, as the angle of attack decreases, this low-frequency fluid mode gradually weakens and eventually degenerates into more stable non-oscillatory fluid modes, resulting in structural stabilization and the cessation of stall flutter. Overall, the linear dynamic model accurately predicts the onset of instability and the vibration frequency of the airfoil, which challenges the traditional nonlinear perspectives and supports the feasibility of using linear control theory for stall flutter suppression in future research.

Fracturability of shale based on rock brittleness and natural fracture tensile reactivation

Exploration and development practices have proved that fracturability evaluation is the primary basis for sucessful fracturing operations. Current studies mainly rely on using traditional physical parameters to evaluate shale fracturability. However, fracture morphology and the extension of natural fractures during fracturing are also crucial for shale fracturability evaluation. In this study, the correlations among factors and rock fracture complexity and natural fracture opening degree were analyzed through 40 sets of related experiments, proposing a new method for shale fracturability evaluation that considers Young's Modulus, shear expansion angle, residual strain, approach angle, and stress variance coefficient. Finally, taking the shale gas field in the Sichuan Basin as an example, a comprehensive evaluation model of shale fracturability was established by using the gray correlation method combined with the core experimental data. One well was selected to compare and analyze the fracturability profile with the stimulated reservoir volume. The results show thatthe peak strain has the most significant influence on the shale fracture complexity, followed by the shear expansion angle and Young's Modulus. The approach angle and the stress difference coefficient affect the degree of natural fracture opening at the same time. The model is accurate because the fractureability values match the study block's stimulated reservoir volume data. This new method of shale fractureability evaluation offers important technology for predicting the fractureability of shale gas reservoirs and optimizing operation schemes.

The law of fracture propagation and intersection in zipper fracturing of deep shale gas wells

In response to the unclear understanding of fracture propagation and intersection interference in zipper fracturing under the factory development model of deep shale gas wells, a coupled hydro-mechanical model for zipper fracturing considering the influence of natural fracture zones was established based on the finite element – discrete element method. The reliability of the model was verified using experimental data and field monitoring pressure increase data. Taking the deep shale gas reservoir in southern Sichuan as an example, the propagation and interference laws of fracturing fractures under the influence of natural fracture zones with different characteristics were studied. The results show that the large approaching angle fracture zone has a blocking effect on the forward propagation of fracturing fractures and the intersection of inter well fractures. During pump shutdown, hydraulic fractures exhibit continued expansion behavior under net pressure driving. Under high stress difference, as the approaching angle of the fracture zone increases, the response well pressure increase and the total length of the fractured fracture show a trend of first decreasing and then increasing, and first increasing and then decreasing, respectively. Compared to small approach angle fracture zones, natural fracture zones with large approach angles require longer time and have greater difficulty to intersect. The width of fractures and the length of natural fractures are negatively and positively correlated with the response well pressure increase, respectively, and positively and negatively correlated with the time required for intersection, the total length of hydraulic fractures, and fracturing efficiency, respectively. As the displacement distance of the well increases, the probability of fracture intersection decreases, but the regularity between displacement distance and the response well pressure increase and the total length of fractures is not obvious.

Anatomoradiological comparison between the minipterional and supraorbital eyebrow approaches to the interpeduncular region.

Advances in surgical technology and microneurosurgery have led to increased utilization of so-called minimally invasive approaches, including the supraorbital eyebrow (SE) and minipterional (MPT) approaches for lesions involving the interpeduncular region. This study aimed to describe and compare anatomical landmarks, along with highlighting the advantages and disadvantages of the SE and MPT approaches to the interpeduncular region. Ten formalin-fixed, latex-injected cadaveric specimens were used to perform bilateral SE and MPT approaches to the interpeduncular region. The operative depth of each approach to key anatomical landmarks was measured. Forty-five axial thin-slice computed tomography studies were reviewed to calculate the operative angles, with consideration of the midline as a reference. A 3D interactive anatomical model generated through the photogrammetry scanning technique was described. The depths of the operative corridors of the SE and MPT approaches to the interpeduncular fossa were 83.4 ± 1.8 mm and 67.7 ± 3.2 mm, respectively (p < 0.001). The mean angle of the MPT approach to the interpeduncular fossa was significantly wider than the one provided by the SE approach (39.9° ± 5.1° vs 28.4° ± 3.6°, p < 0.001). The interpeduncular region can consistently be accessed through the carotid-oculomotor triangle with the SE approach, as well as with the MPT approach. Furthermore, the SE route offered adequate access to the interpeduncular fossa through the opticocarotid triangle. The MPT route provided direct access to the upper prepontine cistern and anterior mesencephalic zone (AMZ). The MPT approach provides a wider and shorter operative corridor and can be employed for lesions in the interpeduncular region with extension to the prepontine cistern and ventrolateral midbrain lesions requiring access through the AMZ. The SE approach is better suited for ventromedial midbrain lesions requiring access via the interpeduncular fossa safe entry zone. Additional studies analyzing these approaches in a clinical setting will help to delineate their reliability and efficacy.

Preferred Distance in Human-Drone Interaction.

In two augmented-reality experiments, we transferred the paradigm of interpersonal distance regulation to human-drone interaction. In the first experiment, we used a simple spherical drone model and explored how both hovering height and approach angle affect the preferred distance. Drone height above the ground had a strong effect. The preferred distance to the drone was larger than that typically found toward human actors, in particular, when the drone trajectory was very high. In the second experiment, we sought to gain a deeper understanding of the factors that may influence this effect. In addition to the simple spherical drone model used in the first experiment, we also varied its appearance and attachment to the ground. Surprisingly, anthropomorphic features increased preferred distances. We, therefore, discuss the extent to which social aspects and subjectively perceived danger influence the preferred distance for interaction with drones, which thus need to be considered in the design of human-drone interaction.

Functional comparison of Fc-engineering strategies to improve anti-HIV-1 antibody effector functions

Substantial reduction of the intact proviral reservoir is essential towards HIV-1 cure. In vivo administration of broadly neutralizing antibodies (bNAbs) targeting the HIV-1 envelope glycoprotein (Env) trimer can decrease the viral reservoir, through Fc-mediated killing of infected cells. In this study, we compared three commonly used antibody engineering strategies to enhance Fc-mediated effector functions: (i) glyco-engineering, (ii) protein engineering, and (iii) subclass/hinge modifications in a panel of anti-HIV-1 antibodies. We found that antibody-dependent cellular phagocytosis (ADCP) was improved by elongating the hinge domain and switching to an IgG3 constant domain. In addition, potent NK cell activation and ADCC activity was observed for afucosylated antibodies and antibodies bearing the GASDALIE mutations. The combination of these engineering strategies further increased NK cell activation and induced antibody dependent cytotoxicity (ADCC) of infected cells at low antibody concentrations. The bNAb N6 was most effective at killing HIV-1 infected cells, likely due to its high affinity and optimal angle of approach. Overall, the findings of this study are applicable to other antibody formats, and can aid the development of effective immunotherapies and antibody-based treatments for HIV-1 cure strategies.

Towards multi-variable tsunami damage modeling for coastal roads: Insights from the application of explainable machine learning to the 2011 Great East Japan Event

The accurate assessment of tsunami-induced damage to coastal roads is crucial for effective disaster risk management. Traditional approaches, reliant on univariate fragility functions, often fail to capture the complex interplay of variables influencing road damage during tsunami events. This study addresses this limitation by employing machine learning techniques on an extensive dataset compiled after the 2011 Great East Japan tsunami. The dataset, enriched with additional explicative variables accounting for the hydraulic features of the event and the physical characteristics at roads’ location, enables a comprehensive analysis of road damage mechanisms. Results indicate that while inundation depth remains a significant predictor, factors such as wave approach angle, road orientation and potential overflow from inland watercourses also play critical roles.

Longshore Sediment Transport Across a Tombolo Determined by Two Adjacent Circulation Cells

AbstractLongshore sediment transport (LST) is essential for shaping sandy shorelines. Many shorelines are complex and indented, containing headlands, offshore islands and tombolos. Tombolos often form between islands and the mainland; however, the conditions for LST across tombolos are unclear. This question is important because tombolos are often reinforced with anthropogenic infrastructure, potentially causing sediment starvation of downdrift beaches. Along many shorelines, the return to a tombolo's natural condition has been proposed to promote sediment connectivity and counteract erosion. Nevertheless, the implications of such restorations remain uncertain. In this study, we employ the Delft3D wave‐current model to investigate hydrodynamics and sediment dynamics across a tombolo, examining its role as a connector between adjacent beaches. Contrary to expectations, our simulations show only diminutive longshore currents from the updrift beach across the tombolo unless offshore wave heights exceed 8 m. Instead, predominant currents crossing the tombolo originate from offshore of the island, driven by storm‐induced water level differences and circulation cells on both sides of the tombolo. The offshore island shelters the downdrift domain, resulting in higher wave energy and dissipation updrift of the tombolo. Further, increasing wave height or wave approach angle not only intensifies water level differences but also relocates circulation cells, enhancing total sediment transport from the updrift beach across the tombolo. However, in general, the deposition of sediment from the updrift side of the domain does not compensate for the sediment loss on the downdrift beach. We conclude that LST across tombolos is limited and occurs only under extreme wave conditions.

Numerical study of the effects of loading parameters on high-energy gas fracture propagation in layered rocks with peridynamics

The objective of this study is to investigate the influence of loading parameters on the propagation pattern of high-energy gas fractures in layered rock formations. To this end, a peridynamic model for brittle rock accounting for material heterogeneity was proposed. The ability of the model to simulate dynamic fractures was validated through laboratory experiments, and the homogeneity coefficient for the critical elongation rate was calibrated. On this basis, a numerical model of high-energy gas fracturing in layered rocks containing interfaces was constructed. Simulations were conducted to analyse high-energy gas fracturing from cylindrical intact boreholes and perforated boreholes under varying loading parameters. The results indicate that as the loading rate increases, the number of radial fractures surrounding the borehole gradually increases, whereas the influence of in-situ stress on fracture propagation diminishes. When the loading rate is fixed, both an increase in the peak pressure and a decrease in the decay rate are conducive to enhancing the propagation length of fractures. The propagation speed of fractures significantly decreases when they reach an interface but recovers after they penetrate it. Fractures tend to penetrate an interface when the angle of approach is closer to a right angle, and the direction of fracture propagation can be controlled through a perforation design. These findings provide valuable insights into the selection and optimization of loading parameters for reservoir stimulation via high-energy gas fracturing.

Numerical simulation study of fracture propagation by internal plugging hydraulic fracturing

Internal temporary plugging fracturing technology improves the stimulated volume by forming a more complex fracture network, significantly enhancing the reservoir stimulation effect and effectively developing unconventional oil and gas resources. However, the current understanding of the fracture propagation mechanism on internal temporary plugging fracturing is still unclear, making it difficult to determine the main controlling factors that affect the shape of the fractures. In addition, the lack of practical numerical simulation methods for temporary plugging fracturing makes it challenging to provide guidance for field scheme design. Utilizing the finite element cohesive zone method, which incorporates globally embedded cohesive elements, this study constructs a comprehensive numerical model to investigate the propagation behavior of temporarily plugging fracturing fractures. The model delves into the impact of various geological and construction parameters on the opening conditions of branch fractures during the temporary plugging fracturing process, as well as the propagation patterns of fractures within naturally fractured reservoirs. The research findings indicate that the construction factors have the following impacts: When the pumping rate and viscosity of the fracturing fluid are comparatively high, the resulting fluid pressure within the fracture escalates, resulting in the creation of numerous branch fractures within the naturally fractured reservoir. This, in turn, augments the fracture’s complexity. However, these two factors have little influence on the maximum deflection distance of the deflected fracture. As for the geological factors, an increase in the horizontal stress difference will decrease the maximum deflection distance of the deflected fracture, reducing the number of natural fractures intersected and shortening the length of the deflected fracture. Conversely, an increase in the approach angle will increase the maximum deflection distance of the deflected fracture, thereby expanding the affected area. Additionally, the influence of Young’s modulus and Poisson’s ratio on fracture propagation is very slight. A decrease in the tensile strength of natural fractures leads to more natural fractures being intersected during the process, resulting in increasing the length of the fracture and an improvement in the complexity of the fracture grid.

Approach angle estimation method for ships based on deep learning

Accurately estimating the ship's approach angle is crucial during berthing, or passing through navigational structures. It forms the foundation for ship navigation decisions. This study introduces the LiDAR point cloud-based ship pose perception network (PP-Net), a novel deep learning-based method for acquiring ship approach angles. Addressing the challenge of manually annotating approach angles, the ship pose perception method based on point cloud feature distribution (FD) was proposed to obtain initial angle estimates. The max-pooling function was utilized to address the disorder of point clouds, and a multi-resolution feature extractor was employed to enhance the network's robustness in extracting features from inconsistently dense point clouds. By using iterative farthest point sampling (IFPS), datasets with varying numbers of point clouds were standardized to a fixed number of points, thereby normalizing input dimensions and improving computational efficiency. Additionally, a novel loss function was proposed to improve the model's predictive accuracy. Experimental validation conducted in the scenario of ships entering ship lifts demonstrates the effectiveness of the proposed method. The outcomes can support safe navigation for ships in restricted waterways.

342. BILATERAL THORACOSCOPIC APPROACH FOR ADVANCED ESOPHAGEAL CANCER COMPLICATED WITH DOUBLE AORTIC ARCH (DAA)

Abstract Background Double aortic arch (DAA) is a relatively rare vascular malformation that causes few problems in adults. However, the presence of DAA makes esophageal cancer surgery difficult, especially during upper mediastinal dissection. Here we report a bilateral thoracoscopic surgical technique in a patient with highly advanced esophageal cancer complicated with DAA. Case 73-year-old male, cT3N4M0 stage III (UICC-TNM 7th) mid-thoracic esophageal cancer with DAA was diagnosed. After two courses of neoadjuvant chemotherapy, surgical treatment was planned. To develop a surgical strategy for esophagectomy for this complex malformation, we created a 3D printer model of the case. The results suggested that a bilateral thoracoscopic approach in the prone position was the ideal approach for upper mediastinal dissection. As expected, it was difficult to dissect the upper mediastinum using only a right-sided approach, especially on the esophagus oral side behind the right aortic arch (RAA), where dissection from the right side was impossible. By adding a left lateral approach, the oral side of the esophagus was pulled in from the left aortic arch (LAA) and was easily dissected. The operation was successful and the postoperative course was uneventful. In this presentation, we will demonstrate the technique of bilateral approach for advanced esophageal cancer complicated with DAA. Discussion The surgical strategy for patients with thoracic esophageal cancer and a coexisting complex vascular anomaly known as a double aortic arch (DAA) is a highlight. Typically, surgical approaches have been limited to either left or right thoracic access. However, through preoperative simulation using 3D printing, a bilateral approach was deemed safe and effective for these cases. The 3D printer models provided invaluable insights into the anatomical relationships of blood vessels, trachea, and heart, allowing for precise planning and execution of the surgery. Challenges such as the proximity of the descending aorta to the trachea and the optimal approach angle were successfully addressed through simulation, enhancing surgical outcomes. Furthermore, the bilateral thoracoscopic approach demonstrated potential benefits in preserving delicate structures like the recurrent laryngeal nerve. This innovative use of 3D printing technology in preoperative planning represents a significant advancement in the field of gastrointestinal surgery, offering improved safety and precision for patients with complex anatomical variations like DAA. Conclusions 3D printer is useful for simulating thoracoscopic esophagectomy with macrovascular malformations. Bilateral approach is appropriate for surgery of esophageal cancer complicated with DAA and a 3D printer is a useful tool for simulating esophageal surgery.

Optimized Substrate Positioning Enables Switches in the C-H Cleavage Site and Reaction Outcome in the Hydroxylation-Epoxidation Sequence Catalyzed by Hyoscyamine 6β-Hydroxylase.

Hyoscyamine 6β-hydroxylase (H6H) is an iron(II)- and 2-oxoglutarate-dependent (Fe/2OG) oxygenase that produces the prolifically administered antinausea drug, scopolamine. After its namesake hydroxylation reaction, H6H then couples the newly installed C6 oxygen to C7 to produce the drug's epoxide functionality. Oxoiron(IV) (ferryl) intermediates initiate both reactions by cleaving C-H bonds, but it remains unclear how the enzyme switches the target site and promotes (C6)O-C7 coupling in preference to C7 hydroxylation in the second step. In one possible epoxidation mechanism, the C6 oxygen would─analogously to mechanisms proposed for the Fe/2OG halogenases and, in our more recent study, N-acetylnorloline synthase (LolO)─coordinate as alkoxide to the C7-H-cleaving ferryl intermediate to enable alkoxyl coupling to the ensuing C7 radical. Here, we provide structural and kinetic evidence that H6H does not employ substrate coordination or repositioning for the epoxidation step but instead exploits the distinct spatial dependencies of competitive C-H cleavage (C6 vs C7) and C-O-coupling (oxygen rebound vs cyclization) steps to promote the two-step sequence. Structural comparisons of ferryl-mimicking vanadyl complexes of wild-type H6H and a variant that preferentially 7-hydroxylates instead of epoxidizing 6β-hydroxyhyoscyamine suggest that a modest (∼10°) shift in the Fe-O-H(C7) approach angle is sufficient to change the outcome. The 7-hydroxylation:epoxidation partition ratios of both proteins increase more than 5-fold in 2H2O, reflecting an epoxidation-specific requirement for cleavage of the alcohol O-H bond, which, unlike in the LolO oxacyclization, is not accomplished by iron coordination in advance of C-H cleavage.

Afucosylated broadly neutralizing antibodies enhance clearance of HIV-1 infected cells through cell-mediated killing

Broadly neutralizing antibodies (bNAbs) targeting the HIV-1 envelope glycoprotein (Env) have the capacity to delay viral rebound when administered to people with HIV-1 (PWH) during anti-retroviral therapy (ART) interruption. To further enhance the performance of bNAbs through their Fc effector functions, in particular NK cell-mediated killing of HIV-1 infected cells, we have produced a panel of glyco-engineered (afucosylated) bNAbs with enhanced affinity for Fc gamma receptor IIIa. These afucosylated anti-HIV-1 bNAbs enhance NK cell activation and degranulation compared to fucosylated counterparts even at low antigen density. NK cells from PWH expressing exhaustion markers PD-1 and TIGIT are activated in a similar fashion by afucosylated bNAbs as NK cell from HIV-1 negative individuals. Killing of HIV-1 infected cells is most effective with afucosylated bNAbs 2G12, N6, PGT151 and PGDM1400, whereas afucosylated PGT121 and non-neutralizing antibody A32 only induce minor NK cell-mediated killing. These data indicate that the approach angle and affinity of Abs influence the capacity to induce antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity. Thus, afucosylated bNAbs have the capacity to induce NK cell-mediated killing of infected cells, which warrants further investigation of afucosylated bNAb administration in vivo, aiming for reduction of the viral reservoir and ART free durable control.

Robotic Lobectomy with a Single Robotic Stapler from One 12-mm Port: A Multi-institutional Study.

Introduction of the robotic stapler has allowed robotic lobectomy to be performed from a surgical console in complete autonomy. The robotic stapler fits a 12-mm port, which is larger than the standard 8-mm port and increases the risk of postoperative pain. However, in many cases, to cover all possible angles of approach, two 12-mm ports are preferably used. However, limiting instrument inventory and simplifying surgical procedures are also desirable to reduce costs. In a multicenter study, we assessed the feasibility of robotic lobectomy with a single type of robotic stapler [SureForm45 Curved-Tip (SF45C); Intuitive Surgical Inc.] inserted through one 12-mm port placed at the anterior tip of the lower intercostal space. We also investigated the potential cost savings of using an additional 60-mm stapler for interlobar division. A total of 135 lobectomy cases were enrolled. In all cases, all stapling procedures were completed using the SF45C inserted from the designated 12-mm port. We found that it was potentially less expensive to use the SureForm60 stapler if more than six SF45C reloads were needed for interlobar division. However, in our series, only 1 case (0.7%) met this requirement. The use of a single type of stapler from one 12-mm port in a robotic lobectomy is technically feasible. This approach may be expected to allow for surgical simplification, minimize the risk of postoperative pain, and reduce inventory costs.

Multi-objective optimization for minimize cutting force and power consumption in corn stalk chopping processes

This study was on optimization of the cutting processes for corn stalks, which serve as significant sources of biomass and forage. The reduction of cutting force is crucial for enhancing energy efficiency. Cutting velocity rises, which can lead to significant power usage with minimal shear forces. Therefore, the objective is to minimize both the cutting force and power consumption. To address this multi-objective optimization problem, a modified Taguchi method was employed. Chauvenet's criterion was used to assess the validity of statistical scatter in repeated test data. The test samples had an 81 % moisture content. Through analysis of variance (ANOVA), the optimal chopping process parameters were identified as velocity of 4.4 m/s, approach angle of 30°, and feeding angle of 50°. The refined empirical relationships indicated that the cutting force ranges from 180.55 N to 393.37 N, while the cutting power ranges from 16.81 W to 44.05 W. In a single test, the output responses for the optimal parameter set were 26.32 W for power consumption and 242.60 N for cutting force, both are within the estimated range. The considerable scatter observed in repeated test data is likely due to variations in corn stalk thickness. These findings are valuable for the operation of chopping machines, ensuring minimal cutting force and power consumption when handling corn stalks residues.

The Silverjaw Minnow, Ericymba buccata: An Extraordinary Lateral Line System and its Contribution to Prey Detection.

Fishes use their mechanosensory lateral line (LL) system to detect local water flows in different behavioral contexts, including the detection of prey. The LL system is comprised of neuromast receptor organs on the skin (superficial neuromasts) and within bony canals (canal neuromasts). Most fishes have one cranial LL canal phenotype, but the silverjaw minnow (Ericymba buccata) has two: narrow canals dorsal and caudal to the eye and widened canals ventral to the eye and along the mandible. The ventrally directed widened LL canals have been hypothesized to be an adaptation for detection of their benthic prey. Multiple morphological methods were used to describe the narrow and widened canals and canal neuromasts in detail. The primary distribution of hundreds of superficial neuromasts and taste buds ventral to the eye and on the mandible (described here for the first time) suggests additional sensory investment for detecting flow and chemical stimuli emanating from benthic prey. The hypothesis that the LL system mediates prey localization was tested by measuring five parameters in behavioral trials in which the combination of sensory modalities available to fish was manipulated (four experimental treatments). Fish detected and localized prey regardless of available sensory modalities and they were able to detect prey in the dark in the absence of LL input (LL ablation with neomycin sulfate) revealing that chemoreception was sufficient to mediate benthic prey detection, localization, and consumption. However, elimination of LL input resulted in a change in the angle of approach to live (mobile) prey even when visual input was available, suggesting that mechanosensory input contributes to the successful detection and localization of prey. The results of this study demonstrate that the extraordinary LL canal system of the silverjaw minnow, in addition to the large number of superficial neuromasts, and the presence of numerous extraoral taste buds, likely represent adaptations for multimodal integration of sensory inputs contributing to foraging behavior in this species. The morphological and behavioral results of this study both suggest that this species would be an excellent model for future comparative structural and functional studies of sensory systems in fishes.

Right subclavian vein sonoanatomy from the supraclavicular fossa approach in children

Introduction: Although the subclavian vein offers significant advantages over other approaches for ultrasound-guided central venous access, it is not the first choice in the pediatric population, mainly due to its proximity to the pleura and the subclavian artery. Objective: To assess the sonoanatomical characteristics of the subclavian vein and adjacent structures using the supraclavicular approach in a pediatric population. Materials and Methods: Observational, intraoperative, cross-sectional study, between June 2021 and March 2022. The population consisted of ASA I, II and III children taken to non-emergent surgical procedures under general anesthesia. Images were acquired with the patients under general anesthesia, using a high-frequency linear probe to identify the subclavian vein and measure the anatomical landmarks. Results: A total of 67 children were recruited; mean age was 6 years (IQR: 2-12 years), with male sex predominance (61%). Median weight was 22 kg (IQR: 12.2-34 Kg) and median height was 115 cm (IQR: 88-142 cm). Measurements in relation to the vessel showed a mean distance from the skin of 0.70 cm (SD: 0.18 cm), while mean distance from the skin to the pleura was 1.31 cm (SD: 0.28 cm). Mean vein diameter was 0.49 cm (IQR: 0.40-0.63 cm). The mean hypothetical approach angle to the vessel was 22.09 degrees (SD: 4.37 degrees), while the approach angle to the pleura was 39 degrees (SD: 5.31 degrees). No concurrent visualization of the vein and artery was documented in any of the recorded sonoanatomy windows. The tests pointed to an average difference of 0.61 cm in vessel depth in relation to the pleura, and the angle of approach to the vessel was 16.91 degrees smaller when compared with the angle of approach to the pleura (p &lt; 0.001). Conclusions: Using this technique, the supraclavicular approach to the subclavian vein in children is safe and feasible, with an average skin-to-vessel distance of 0.70 cm, minimizing the risk of pleural puncture. Additional studies are required to optimize this technique in the pediatric population.

A mechanical study of the influence of ankle joint angle on translational traction of soccer boots

The shoe–surface interaction for soccer players has both safety and performance implications. This interaction has been widely researched in terms of outsole configuration and surface type. However, these investigations, particularly those involving translational traction, often neglect the approach angle of the foot in terms of a real-world setting. This investigation considers the foot position prior to injuries such as anterior cruciate ligament tears, and observes how the translational traction alters with various angles for simulated plantarflexion, dorsiflexion, calcaneal inversion and calcaneal eversion. It was hypothesised that, as these angles increased, the translational traction would decrease as there would be less contact area between the boot and the surface compared to the neutral, flat footform. A custom-built testing apparatus recorded the translational traction of a soccer boot moving in four different directions at different loading angles on both a natural grass and artificial grass playing surface. A one-way ANOVA was performed, with a post-hoc Tukey Test to determine the significant differences between the translational traction between each angle. It was found that the geometry of the outsole configuration, more specifically, the apparent contact area between the shoe and surface played a significant role in the level of traction obtained. These results highlight the importance of stud geometry, particularly with respect to movements when the foot is angled as it would be in a potential injury scenario. Manufacturers should consider the profile of studs relative to the expected movements to not induce excessive traction, which could lead to potential foot fixation and injury.