Complex Deformation Research Articles

Charged Black-Hole-Like Electronic Structure Driven by Geometric Potential of 2D Semiconductors.

One of the exotic expectations in the 2D curved spacetime is the geometric potential from the curvature of the 2D space, still possessing unsolved fundamental questions through Dirac quantization. The atomically thin 2D materials are promising for the realization of the geometric potential, but the geometric potential in 2D materials is not identified experimentally. Here, the curvature-induced ring-patterned bound states are observed in structurally deformed 2D semiconductors and formulated the modified geometric potential for the curvature effect, which demonstrates the ring-shape bound states with angular momentum. The formulated modified geometric potential is analogous to the effective potential of a rotating charged black hole. Density functional theory and tight-binding calculations are performed, which quantitatively agree well with the results of the modified geometric potential. The modified geometric potential is described by modified Gaussian and mean curvatures, corresponding to the curvature-induced changes in spin-orbit interaction and band gap, respectively. Even for complex structural deformation, the geometric potential solves the complexity, which aligns well with experimental results. The understanding of the modified geometric potential provides us with an intuitive clue for quantum transport and a key factor for new quantum applications such as valleytronics, spintronics, and straintronics in 2D semiconductors.

Active shortening and aseismic slip along the Cephalonia Plate Boundary (Paliki Peninsula, Greece): Evidence from InSAR and GNSS data

We present a comprehensive analysis of geodetic data, including InSAR and GNSS, to assess the interseismic deformation of the Paliki peninsula in western Cephalonia, Greece. The region is prone to frequent earthquakes, due to its proximity to the Cephalonia Transform Fault (CTF), a 140 km long dextral strike-slip fault (striking NNE-SSW) that accommodates the relative motion between the Apulian and Aegean lithospheric plates. Our analysis covers the period from 2016 to 2022 and leverages LiCSBAS, an open-source package, for InSAR time series analysis with the N-SBAS method. The results of the InSAR analysis demonstrate deformation rates between 2 and 5 mm/yr in the line-of-sight (LOS) direction of the satellite. We constructed E-W velocity profiles that provided a velocity gradient terminating against the outcropping trace of the seismic fault of the 3 February 2014 earthquake (M6.1) near Atheras. This geodetic evidence indicates a ∼ 1 mm/yr minimum aseismic slip (fault creep) motion along the February 2014 seismic fault, during 2016–2022. Positive LOS values in both satellite imaging geometries show that the coastal town of Lixouri experiences uplift of 1 mm/yr. East-West velocity cross-sections across western Cephalonia including Gulf of Argostoli reveal several velocity discontinuities, possibly bounded by active faults and/or landslides. The E-W shortening rate between Lixouri and Argostoli areas amounts to 1.5 mm/yr corresponding to −187 ns/yr (nanostrain/yr) of tectonic strain. Our results suggest a complex deformation pattern on the Paliki peninsula with strain accumulation along strike-slip and reverse-slip faults. We also inverted GNSS velocities from Italy and Greece, across the Cephalonia segment of CTF (assuming elastic half-space) and obtained a locking depth of 13 km, and a slip rate of 17.3 ± 0.8 mm/yr.

Bioinspired Genetic and Chemical Engineering of Protein Hydrogels for Programable Multi-Responsive Actuation.

Protein hydrogels with tailored stimuli-responsive features and tunable stiffness have garnered considerable attention due to the growing demand for biomedical soft robotics. However, integrating multiple responsive features toward intelligent yet biocompatible actuators remains challenging. Here, a facile approach that synergistically combines genetic and chemical engineering for the design of protein hydrogel actuators with programmable complex spatial deformation is reported. Genetically engineered silk-elastin-like proteins (SELPs) are encoded with stimuli-responsive motifs and enzymatic crosslinking sites via simulation-guided genetic engineering strategies. Chemical modifications of the recombinant proteins are also used as secondary control points to tailor material properties, responsive features, and anisotropy in SELP hydrogels. As a proof-of-concept example, diazonium coupling chemistry is exploited to incorporate sulfanilic acid groups onto the tyrosine residues in the elastin domains of SELPs to achieve patterned SELP hydrogels. These hydrogels can be programmed to perform various actuations, including controllable bending, buckling, and complex deformation under external stimuli, such as temperature, ionic strength, or pH. With the inspiration of genetic and chemical engineering in natural organisms, this work offers a predictable, tunable, and environmentally sustainable approach for the fabrication of programmed intelligent soft actuators, with implications for a variety of biomedical materials and biorobotics needs.

Deformation behavior, constitutive modeling and microstructure evolution of 2195 Al-Li alloy deformed at high strain rates and cryogenic temperatures

High-speed and cryogenic-temperature forming technologies have exhibited great potential for fabricating advanced Al-Li alloy components for aircraft due to their ability to enhance materials’ formability. However, there remains an urgent need to study the high-accuracy constitutive model and complex deformation mechanism of Al-Li alloys deformed at high strain rates and cryogenic temperatures. In this study, the flow stress behavior and microstructure evolution of 2195 Al-Li alloy were investigated over a wide stain rate range (from 2000 s−1 to 5000 s−1) and temperature range (from 298 K to 123 K). The flow stress increases by ∼ 32% at 2000 s−1 and ∼ 37% at 5000 s−1 as the deformation temperature drops from 298 K to 123 K, but only increases by ∼ 4% at 298 K and ∼ 8% at 123 K as the strain rate increases from 2000 s−1 to 5000 s−1. At the high strain rate of 5000 s−1, the T1 phases exhibit bending (at 298 K) and fracturing (at 123 K), with increased lattice distortion and substructure generation around the intersections of T1 phases. A new constitutive model (g-Johnson-Cook model) is developed, which shows a higher accuracy than both the Arrhenius model and Johnson-Cook model in describing the deformation behavior.

FOREFOOT MORPHOTYPES IN CAVOVARUS FEET: A NOVEL CLASSIFICATION

BackgroundThe cavovarus foot is a complex 3-dimensional deformity. Although a multitude of techniques are described for its surgical management, few of these are evidence based or guided by classification systems. Surgical management involves realignment of the hindfoot and soft tissue balancing, followed by forefoot balancing. Our aim was to classify the pattern of residual forefoot deformities once the hindfoot is corrected, to guide forefoot correction.MethodsWe included 20 cavovarus feet from adult patients with Charcot-Marie-Tooth who underwent weightbearing CT (mean age 43.4 years, 14 males). Patients included had flexible deformities, with no previous surgery. Previous work established majority of rotational deformity in cavovarus feet occurs at the talonavicular joint, which is often reduced during surgery. Using specialised software (Bonelogic 2.1, Disior) a 3-dimensional, virtual model was created. Using data from normal feet as a guide, the talonavicular joint of the cavovarus feet was digitally reduced to a ‘normal’ position. Models of the corrected position were exported and geometrically analysed using Blender 3.6 to identify anatomical trends.ResultsWe identified 3 types of cavovarus forefoot morphotypes. Type 1 was seen in 13 cases (65%) and was defined as a foot where only the first metatarsal was relatively plantarflexed to the rest of the foot, with no significant residual adduction after talonavicular correction. Type 2 was seen in 4 cases (20%) and was defined as a foot where the second and first metatarsals were progressively plantarflexed, with no significant adduction. Type 3 was seen in 3 cases (15%) and was defined as a foot where the metatarsals were still adducted after talonavicular de-rotation.ConclusionWe classify 3 forefoot morphotypes in cavovarus feet. It is important to recognise and anticipate the residual forefoot deformities after hindfoot correction as different treatment strategies may be required for different morphotypes to achieve balanced correction.

Contemporary utilization of three-column osteotomy techniques in a prospective complex spinal deformity multicenter database: implications on full-body alignment and perioperative course.

Research has focused on the increased correction from a three-column osteotomy (3CO) during adult spinal deformity (ASD) surgery. However, an in-depth analysis on the performance of a 3CO in a cohort of complex spinal deformity cases has not been described. This is a retrospective study on a prospectively enrolled, complex ASD database. This study aimed to determine if three-column osteotomies demonstrate superior benefit in correction of complex sagittal deformity at the cost of increased perioperative complications. Surgical complex adult spinal deformity patients were included and grouped into thoracolumbar 3COs compared to those who did not have a 3CO (No 3CO) (remaining cohort). Rigid deformity was defined as ΔLL less than 33% from standing to supine. Severe deformity was defined as global (SVA > 70mm) or C7-PL > 70mm, or lumbopelvic (PI-LL > 30°). Means comparison tests assessed correction by 3CO grade/location. Multivariate analysis controlling for baseline deformity evaluated outcomes up to six weeks compared to No 3CO. 648 patients were included (Mean age 61 ± 14.6years, BMI 27.55 ± 5.8kg/m2, levels fused: 12.6 ± 3.8). 126 underwent 3CO, a 20% higher usage than historical cohorts. 3COs were older, frail, and more likely to undergo revision (OR 5.2, 95% CI [2.6-10.6]; p < .001). 3COs were more likely to present with both severe global/lumbopelvic deformity (OR 4), 62.4% being rigid. 3COs had greater use of secondary rods (OR 4st) and incurred 4 times greater risk for: massive blood loss (> 3500mL), longer LOS, SICU admission, perioperative wound and spine-related complications, and neurologic complications when performed below L3. 3COs had similar HRQL benefit, but higher perioperative opioid use. Mean segmental correction increased by grade (G3-21; G4-24; G5-27) and was 4 × greater than low-grade osteotomies, especially below L3 (OR 12). 3COs achieved 2 × greater spinopelvic correction. Higher grades properly distributed lordosis 50% of the time except L5. Pelvic compensation and non-response were relieved more often with increasing grade, with greater correction in all lower extremity parameters (p < .01). Due to the increased rate of complications, 3COs trended toward higher perioperative cost ($42,806 vs. $40,046, p = .086). Three-column osteotomy usage in contemporary complex spinal deformities is generally limited to more disabled individuals undergoing the most severe sagittal and coronal realignment procedures. While there is an increased perioperative cost and prolongation of length of stay with usage, these techniques represent the most powerful realignment techniques available with a dramatic impact on normalization at operative levels and reciprocal changes.

Ultraviolet‐visible‐near‐infrared light‐responsive soft materials: Fabrication, photomechanical deformation and applications

AbstractIn recent years, the advances in light‐responsive soft materials with fascinating properties and functions have attracted tremendous attention, which are also enlightening when attempting to achieve the goals of complex deformations, motions, or attractive applications by precise regulation. Attractively, light is not only a clean and inexhaustible energy but also can be controlled remotely, quickly and accurately in a non‐contact way. Moreover, light‐responsive soft materials are capable of amplifying photo‐triggered molecular changes at the microscopic scale into macroscopic deformations, that is, directly converting the input light energy into the output mechanical work, therefore enabling potential applications in the field of actuators and functional devices. To date, some wonderful reviews have reported the progress in photo‐driven soft materials. However, the research progress in ultraviolet, visible (Vis) and near‐infrared (NIR) light‐driven soft materials containing azobenzene or other non‐azobenzene moieties has not been reported yet. In this review, we summarize recent progress in light‐responsive soft materials in terms of preparation methods, response wavelengths and potential applications. Firstly, the preparation methods of photoresponsive soft materials are introduced. Subsequently, photoinduced macroscopic deformations or motions are summarized, in which Vis and NIR light‐responsive behaviors are especially highlighted. Finally, the potential applications of photoresponsive soft materials are classified. To guide the future work for researchers, the existing problems and future development prospects of light‐responsive soft materials are proposed.

Correlation of Clinical Outcomes and Relative Position of the First Metatarsal After the Modified Lapidus Procedure.

Hallux valgus is a complex 3-dimensional deformity, and the modified Lapidus is a commonly used procedure to correct moderate to severe cases. Shortening and elevation of the first ray can occur with this procedure, which may result in increased pressure on the lesser metatarsal heads. However, there is currently no consensus regarding an accepted length and elevation of the first ray following the modified Lapidus. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to evaluate the impact of the position of the first ray on patient-reported outcome measures. This retrospective study identified 68 patients (72 feet) who underwent the modified Lapidus bunionectomy over a 4-year period at a single institution with a median follow-up of 24 months (range, 11-35.6 months). Patients were included if they were over 18 years of age, had pre- and postoperative weightbearing computed tomography (WBCT) scans, and preoperative and minimum 1-year postoperative Patient-Reported Outcome Measurement Information System (PROMIS) scores. PROMIS scores from 6 domains including physical function, pain interference, pain intensity, global physical health, global mental health, and depression were evaluated and compared pre- and postoperatively. Radiographic parameters were measured and compared before and after surgery. Paired t tests were used to evaluate the significance of pre- to postoperative changes. Differences between cohorts were compared using Mann-Whitney U test for continuous variables or Fisher exact test for categorical variables. Correlation between radiographic measurements and patient-reported outcomes were assessed using the Spearman rank rho estimate and visualized with scatterplots with a linear regression. PROMIS physical function, pain interference, pain intensity, and global physical health improved significantly following the modified Lapidus (all P < .001); however, scores did not show any significant correlation with shortening of the first ray up to a maximum shortening of 4.8 mm. The length of the first metatarsal relative to the second decreased by an average of 2.7 mm following the procedure when measured on WBCT (P < .001), and 2.6 mm when measured on plain radiographs (P < .001). No significant elevation of the first ray was observed postoperatively. This study revealed that the Lapidus bunionectomy resulted in significantly improved pain and physical function at short-term follow-up. The amount of first ray shortening and elevation that occurred in this cohort did not adversely affect patient-reported outcomes.

Damage evolution of coal with a strong bursting liability and 3D measurement method for elastic deformation energy distribution

When coal with a strong bursting liability is disturbed by a load, catastrophic instability disasters and rockbursts can easily occur. Loaded coal with a strong bursting liability undergoes complex damage evolution and failure behavior due to the intricate interplay among loads, gangue, fractures, and the coal matrix. Intuitively quantifying and characterizing the complex discontinuous structural features, deformation fields, and energy fields within coal is the foundation for the scientific analysis and prevention of disaster mechanisms caused by rockbursts. Therefore, studying the distribution and evolutionary processes of deformation fields and energy fields caused by the evolution of discontinuous structures within coal is highly important for the prevention and control of coal mine rockburst disasters and the protection of coal mine safety during mining operations. In this study, a series of X-ray computed tomography (X-CT) tests were conducted on coal specimens with varying gangue contents under uniaxial compressive loading. The X-CT images clearly illustrated the internal damage evolution of coal with a strong bursting liability, revealing fracture propagation, shear bands, and localized failure under varying loading conditions. Image segmentation was employed to quantitatively analyze the development of damage in coal with a strong bursting liability, revealing the influence patterns of gangue content on the prepeak deformation localization and strength of coal. Additionally, using digital volume correlation, the 3D volumetric displacement and strain of loaded impact-prone coal were determined based on the changes in natural speckle images. The nonuniform distribution of strain was mainly caused by the nonuniform distribution of gangue and pore fractures at the microscopic scale, which explains the localized deformation in coal materials. Importantly, this study provides new full-field strain tensor data and a novel method for measuring the elastic deformation energy of the 3D deformation and cracking processes of loaded coal.

Management of patients with complex ear deformities

Complex ear reconstruction requires specialized multidisciplinary care. Most patients present with microtia, often associated with hearing disorders. The management of these disorders is a priority, and reconstruction of the external ear remains optional. Nowadays, auricular reconstruction is based on the subcutaneous implantation of either autologous cartilage or an allogeneic implant. Autologous reconstruction requires highly specialized surgical expertise and involves harvesting rib cartilage but carries a lower risk of exposure compared to allogeneic implants. Both techniques yield good results with a high success rate and have a positive impact on the social functioning and daily life of patients.

Application and Research of Multi-Scale Dynamic Diffusion Permeability Model in Different Coal Ranks

The spatial scale of coal mining and rock layer control is distributed between 10-10 and 107, spanning 17 orders of magnitude. There are multi-scale pore cracks from millimeter to micro and nanometers in the coal, and the pore size can reach one million times, which makes the coal permeability also show a multi-scale characteristics of millions and time. For the permeability of the coal seam, it is necessary to test and analyze the distribution of micro and nano pores and cracks in the coal [1]. CBM mining is accompanied by the dynamic change of adsorption pressure in coal and the complex deformation of multi-scale heterogeneous structure of coal, and the multi-scale deformation feature of pore fissure structure plays an important role in the transport of methane [2]. However, existing studies focus on treating coal as a homogeneous isotropic medium, without considering the influence of coal multiscale pore structure on permeability. The variation of heterogeneous degree of coal structure with structural scale and its influence on dynamic diffusion and permeability are rarely reported. Li Zhiqiang et al. [3] conducted an experimental-model-mechanism study of CBM gas micro-nano series multi-scale dynamic diffusion permeability. On this basis, the dynamic diffusion and permeability of different coal scales.

Design Principles and Development Status of Flexible Integrated Thin and Lightweight Zinc-Ion Batteries

The rapid advancement of wearable devices and flexible electronics has spurred an increasing need for high-performance, thin, lightweight, and flexible energy storage devices. In particular, thin and lightweight zinc-ion batteries require battery materials that possess exceptional flexibility and mechanical stability to accommodate complex deformations often encountered in flexible device applications. Moreover, the development of compact and thin battery structures is essential to minimize the overall size and weight while maintaining excellent electrochemical performance, including high energy density, long cycle life, and stable charge/discharge characteristics, to ensure their versatility across various applications. Researchers have made significant strides in enhancing the battery’s performance by optimizing crucial components such as electrode materials, electrolytes, separators, and battery structure. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of the design principles essential for achieving thinness in zinc-ion batteries, along with a summary of the preparation methods and potential applications of these batteries. Moreover, it delves into the challenges associated with achieving thinness in zinc-ion batteries and proposes effective countermeasures to address these hurdles. This review concludes by offering insights into future developments in this field, underscoring the continual advancements and innovations that can be expected.

Modeling Analysis of Complex Deformation of Woven Coating Film during the Cyclic Tensile Process.

It is difficult for the existing Burgers model to accurately depict the off-axis cyclic drawing process of woven coatings. In this paper, the mechanical deformation of woven PVC (polyvinyl chloride)-coated film at different temperatures is investigated. One-dimensional (1D) and two-dimensional (2D) constitutive models were established to characterize cyclic deformation processes. The 1D model is an improved Burgers model. The effects of the time dependence of the viscosity coefficient and the ratio of elastic to viscous deformation are considered simultaneously. The accuracy of the 1D model for predicting the cyclic nonlinear deformation at different temperatures and loading rates is improved. The 2D model is a nonlinear orthotropic model using polynomials. On the basis of the single-objective genetic algorithm, the inverse algorithm is used to obtain the shear polynomial coefficients in the tension phase and the shear modulus in the unloading phase, which circumvents performing the difficult shear test. UMAT subroutines of off-axis stretching and off-axis cyclic stretching are written separately. The intelligent inverse algorithm program consists of a single-objective genetic algorithm program, a finite element parametric modelling program, and a UMAT subroutine. The simulation results are compared with the off-axis cyclic tensile test data to validate the effectiveness and accuracy of the proposed 2D model for the analysis of the woven PVC-coated films in the tension-shear coupling state.

Generative quasi-zero stiffness paradigm for vibration isolation by constraining the constant force with hardening boundaries

Quasi-zero stiffness (QZS) isolators are widely used to mitigate the low-frequency vibration. This paper proposes a new QZS paradigm for vibration isolation utilizing constant force with hardening boundaries (CFHB). Different from the conventional parallel connection of positive and negative stiffness elements, the CFHB directly exhibits the QZS characteristic which is generated when the uniform magnetic field is converted to a non-uniform one. Therefore, it avoids complex assembly and material deformation, and eschews the reliability issues related to stiffness combination. Concretely, the radially magnetized shaft has a uniform area in the middle part which can be distorted by a coaxial sleeve made of high permeability material. A constant magnetic force is generated in this process. Two hardening boundaries formed by two pair of repulsive magnets are applied to constrain the QZS stroke and maintains the working position. The shaft's magnetic field is studied to clarify the filed distribution, and the distortion by the sleeve is simulated by finite element analysis (FEA). The force-displacement relationship of the case study is proven to be continuous and fitted by a polynomial form. The influence of dimension parameters on the performance of vibration isolator is systematically investigated to guide the design. Dynamic differential equation considering Coulomb damping and viscous damping is established and solved applying the Runge-Kutta Method (RKM) to obtain the vibration response. A prototype is fabricated to experimentally validate its performance, demonstrating the QZS properties in quasi-static calibration and the vibration isolation effect under the frequency sweep and periodic excitations. The generative QZS offers a new paradigm with a simple structure, suggesting its substantial potential for practical deployment.

Quantitative evaluation of orientation effects in wear and friction characteristics of pure nickel using experiments and atomistic simulations

Nanoscale tribological behavior of Ni for its applications such as MEMS is an important area of study. The present study investigated the nanoscale friction and wear behavior of Ni on different crystallographic orientations using experiments and molecular dynamics simulations. Results showed an anisotropic friction response, with (100) [001] case showing high COF followed by (111) [1¯10] and (110) [1¯10] cases. Analysis showed that such a trend in COF is observed due to variation in activation of the number of slip systems in each case as determined by the Schmid factor calculations. Dislocation analysis showed that (100) [001] case developed the highest number of glissile dislocations which is attributed to high COF value. The wear volume followed an opposite trend of COF order, and the spatial distribution of displaced material is found to be different in each case, indicating an anisotropic ploughing mechanism. Such behavior is observed due to variations in the availability of the number of slip directions, their orientation on the scratch plane, and dislocation evolution during nanoscratch. Overall, this study provides insights into the complex deformation mechanism and wear behavior associated with scratch tests and has implications for the development of wear-resistant materials.

3D AUTOMATED VERSUS MANUAL ASSESSMENT OF ALIGNMENT IN NORMAL AND CAVUS FEET USING WEIGHT-BEARING CT SCANS: DOES IT DIFFER?

BackgroundThe complex deformities in cavovarus feet may be difficult to assess and understand. Weight-bearing CT (WBCT) is increasingly used to evaluate complex deformities. However, the bone axes may be difficult to calculate in the setting of severe deformity. Computer-assisted 3D-axis calculation is a novel approach that may allow for more accurate assessment of foot alignment / deformity. The aim of this study was to assess differences in measurements done manually on 2D slices of WBCT versus 3D computer models in normal and cavus feet.MethodsWe retrospectively analyzed WBCT scans from 16 normal and 16 cavus feet in patients with Charcot-Marie Tooth. Eight measurements were assessed: Talus-1st metatarsal angle (axial plane), Forefoot arch angle (coronal plane), and Meary's angle, calcaneal pitch, cuneiform to floor, cuneiform to skin, navicular to floor and navicular to skin distance (sagittal plane). 2D measurements were performed manually and 3D measurements were performed using specialised software (BoneLogic, DISIOR).ResultsThere was no significant difference in the measured variables (2D manual versus 3D automated) in normal feet. In the cavus group, 3D assessment calculated increased values for the sagittal angles: Meary's 7.3 degrees greater (p = 0.004), calcaneal pitch 2.4 degrees greater (p = 0.011)), and lower values for the axial talus-1st MT angle, 10.6 degrees less (p = 0.001).ConclusionThere were no significant differences in the normal group. This suggests 3D automated techniques can reliably assess the alignment of bony axes. However, the 3D axis calculations suggest there may be greater sagittal and lesser axial deformity in cavus feet than measured by 2D techniques. This discrepancy may be on account of the rotation seen in cavovarus feet, which may not be readily assessed manually. 3D automated measurements may therefore have a role in better assessing and classifying the cavus foot which may ultimately help inform treatment algorithms.

Dome versus single-cut osteotomies for correction of long bone deformities—technical considerations

Corrective osteotomy allows to improve joint loading, pain and function. In complex deformities, the biggest challenge is to define the optimal surgical solution, while considering anatomical, technical and biomechanical factors. While the single-cut osteotomy (SCOT) and focal dome osteotomy (FDO) are well-established treatment options, their mathematical relationship remain largely unclear. The aim of the study was (1) to describe the close mathematical relationship between the SCOT and FDO and (2) to analyze and introduce a novel technique—the stepped FDO—as a modification of the classic FDO. The mathematical background and relationship of SCOT and FDO are described for the example of a femoral deformity correction and visualized using a 3D surface model taking into account the benefits for the clinical application. The novel modifications of the stepped FDO are introduced and its technical and clinical feasibility demonstrated. Both, SCOT and FDO, rely on the same deformity axis that defines the rotation axis k for a 3D deformity correction. To achieve the desired correction using a SCOT, the resulting cutting plane is perpendicular to k, while using a FDO will result in a cylindrical cut with a central axis parallel to k. The SCOT and FDO demonstrate a strong mathematical relation, as both methods rely on the same deformity axis, however, resulting in different cutting planes. These characteristics enable a complementary use when defining the optimal type of osteotomy. This understanding enables a more versatile planning approach when considering factors as the surgical approach, biomechanical characteristics of fixation or soft tissue conditions. The newly introduced stepped FDO facilitates an exact reduction of the bone fragments and potentially expands the clinical applicability of the FDO.

Research on image restoration of [formula omitted] porous foam ceramics media using Transformer architecture

Pore structure images of foam ceramics play a crucial role in the field of refractory materials science and engineering, facilitating the observation and analysis of the material’s pore structure and unique characteristics. However, traditional image restoration techniques have limitations in handling background noise, complex texture restoration, deformation, and dislocation correction, as well as automation and intelligence aspects in restoring material pore structure images. The latest Transformer architecture has shown significant potential in image processing, particularly in image restoration research tasks. Nevertheless, its application in restoring pore structure images of materials remains unexplored. This paper aims to address this gap by focusing on the image restoration of foam ceramic pore structure images using a Transformer-based algorithm for super-resolution (SR) processing. Experimental comparisons with state-of-the-art methods demonstrate a remarkable improvement in Peak Signal-to-Noise Ratio (PSNR) and Structural Similarity (SSIM), underscoring the effectiveness of the proposed approach.

Development of a measurement system to determine the circumferential force on a feather key

Shaft-hub-connections are essential for the transmission of torques in drivetrains. In particular, feather key connections are frequently used due to their ease of assembly and disassembly and the resulting interchangeability. The purpose of the study is to develop a measuring system for recording the strains occurring on the feather key end face, whereby the feather key is designed as a sensor-integrated machine element. The subject of this article is the integration of a sensor into the feather key in order to record the torques transmitting across the connection. Feather keys are subjected to uneven surface pressures, which leads to complex deformation. In order to record this deformation, measurements with many strain gauges would normally be necessary. In preliminary work, the geometry of the feather key was adapted based on topology optimisation methods such that it always deforms according to a linear combination of two desired deformation modes, regardless of the surface pressure. Thus, the deformation can be recorded with just two strain gauges applied to the face of the feather key. The present work presents the development of a measurement circuit consisting of one Wheatstone quarter bridge, a micro controller and a Bluetooth transmitter unit. Torsion tests are carried out to test the functionality of the measuring circuit.

The role of phase fraction on the deformation behavior and tensile properties of dual-phase polycrystalline Fe–Ni alloy: A molecular dynamics simulation study

An alloy containing two or more phases with significantly distinct properties may produce a unique combination of high strength and ductility. Fe–Ni alloys processed through the powder metallurgy route form dual-phase structures containing both body- and face-centered cubic phases. The detailed atomic scale microstructural evolution and deformation mechanism of such alloys have not been performed as dual-phase structure materials generate more complex deformation mechanisms than single-phase structure materials. The present study utilizes molecular dynamics simulation to compute the mechanical properties and investigate the deformation mechanism in a dual-phase Fe–Ni alloy with a variable phase fraction of body-centered cubic during a uniaxial tensile test. The results show that phase fraction affects the mechanical properties as well as the deformation behavior. Shear strain distribution and dislocation density provided an explanation for the change in the average flow stress and strengthening mechanism of the dual-phase Fe–Ni alloys. Additionally, the influence of temperature on deformation behavior is investigated. The deformation mechanism at higher temperatures is found to be dislocation slip and grain boundary sliding.