Current Time Research Articles

Validation and comparison of 2D grading scales and 3D volumetric measurements for outcome assessment of bone-grafted alveolar clefts in children.

Several methods have been proposed to assess outcome of bone-grafted alveolar clefts on cone beam computed tomography (CBCT), but so far these methods have not been compared and clinically validated. To validate and compare methods for outcome assessment of bone-grafted clefts with CBCT and provide recommendations for follow-up. In this observational follow-up study, two grading scales (Suomalainen; Liu) and the volumetric bone fill (BF) were used to assess the outcome of 23 autogenous bone-grafted unilateral alveolar clefts. The mean age at bone grafting was 9 years. The volumetric BF was assessed in five vertical sections. The bone-grafted cleft outcome was based on a binary coding (success or regraft) on a clinical multidisciplinary expert consensus meeting. Grading scales and volumetric assessment were compared in relation to the bone-grafted cleft outcome (success or regraft). Reliability for the different outcome variables was analyzed with intra-class correlation and by calculating kappa values. The study had a limited sample size. Clinical CBCT acquisitions had a varying tube current and exposure time. Volumetric 3D measurements allowed for outcome assessment of bone-grafted alveolar clefts with high reliability and validity. The two grading scales showed highly reliable outcomes, yet the validity was high for the Suomalainen grading scale but low for the Liu grading scale. Volumetric 3D measurement as well as the Suomalainen grading can be recommended for outcome assessment of the bone-grafted cleft. Yet, one must always make a patient-specific assessment if there is a need to regraft.

Effect of electrolytic zero-valent iron activated sodium hypochlorite on sludge dewatering performance.

Using electrolytic zero-valent iron-activated sodium hypochlorite (EZVI-NaClO) to pretreat sludge, the capillary suction time (CST) was utilized to evaluate sludge dewaterability. Ammonia nitrogen (NH4-N), dissolved phosphorus, and total phosphorus in the supernatant were used to analyze sludge disintegration. This approach aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of the pretreatment process and its impact on the sludge composition. The migration and transformation of extracellular polymeric substances (EPS), including dissolved EPS (S-EPS), loosely boundEPS, and tightly bound-EPS (TB-EPS), were analyzed by detecting protein and polysaccharide concentrations and three-dimensional fluorescence excitation-emission spectroscopy (3D-EEM). The sludge particle properties, including sludge viscosity and particle size, were also analyzed. The results suggested that the optimal pH value, NaClO dosage, current, and reaction time were 2, 100 mg/gDS (dry sludge), 0.2A, and 30 min, respectively, with a CST reduction of 43%. Protein and polysaccharide contents in TB-EPS were significantly reduced in the EZVI-NaClO group. Conversely, protein and polysaccharides contents in S-EPS increased, suggesting that EZVI-NaClO treatment could disrupt the EPS. Besides, the viscosity of the treated sludge decreased from 195.4 to 54.9 mPa·S, indicating that sludge fluidity became better. ZEVI-NaClO could enhance sludge dewaterability by destructing protein and polysaccharide structure and improving sludge hydrophobicity.

Image Guided Intraoperative Radiation Therapy After Surgical Resection of Brain Metastases: A First In-Human Feasibility Report

PurposeA correct placement of the applicator during intraoperative radiotherapy (IORT) for brain metastasis is of paramount importance, in order to deliver a precise and safe treatment. The applicator-to-surface contact assessment cannot be performed under direct observation, as the applicator itself limits the visual range. No image-guided (IG) verification is currently performed intracranially. We hypothesize that IG-IORT would assure a more precise delivery in the target area. We describe our workflow in a first in-human experience. Methods and MaterialsPhantom-based measurements were performed to reach the best cone-beam computed-tomography (CBCT) imaging quality possible. Once defined, a clinical feasibility study was initiated. An in-room CBCT device is used to acquire intraoperative images after placing the applicator. Repositioning the applicator is thereafter discussed with the surgeon, according to the imaging outcomes, if required. ResultsAn optimal image quality was achieved with 120-kV voltage, 20-mA current and a tube current–time product of 150 mAs. An additional 0.51–mSv patient exposure was calculated for the entire procedure. The wide dynamic range (−600 HU to +600 HU) of CBCT and a 27-HU mean CT values difference between brain tissue and spherical applicator allows distinguishing both structures. In this first in-human experience, the applicator was repositioned after evidencing air gaps, assuring full applicator-to-surface contact. ConclusionThis first in-human procedure confirmed the feasibility of kilovoltage IG-IORT in a neurosurgical setting. A prospective study has been initiated and will provide further dosimetric details.

Control system for noise-resistant electronic speed controller of a brushless electric motor for an unmanned aerial vehicle

Objectives. The high demand for unmanned aircraft and their efficiency makes the production of their components a matter of relevance. One of these components is the speed controller of the brushless electric motor of the propeller motor group. At the current time, Russian industry, however, does not mass-produce them. In order to start production, control methods and algorithms for the hardware and software parts of devices of this type are needed. Criteria for selecting the main components also need to be formalized. The aim of this work is to develop a method for the software control of electric motors. This includes block diagrams and invariant algorithms and methods for the calculated selection of parameters of the main microcontroller of the electronic speed controller.Methods. Methods of algorithmization, expert assessments, linear computational processes and experimental studies were used.Results. The paper presents the theoretical basis for controlling the required motors. It proposes a block diagram of the implementation of the controller, and a technique for switching windings when controlling with a trapezoidal signal is proposed. Examples are given in the form of an oscillogram. Based on theoretical research, an invariant algorithmic apparatus was developed for building software for various types of microcontrollers. Block diagrams of all the main modules of the software are also presented. The main ones include: the event switching algorithm; and the main endless loop of the microcontroller. The requirements for microcontrollers to create the various types of speed controllers are formalized herein and presented in the form of a set of mathematical expressions. They enable the number of required peripheral devices and microcontroller ports to be calculated according to the requirements for the microcontroller, as well as the computing power of the core used.Conclusions. Experimental studies show the reliability of the theoretical research presented herein. The results obtained can be used to select the optimal element base and develop software for speed controllers of electric motors of the propellers of unmanned aircraft.

A Critical Evaluation of the Adequacy Of Current Mining Laws in India: A Legal Study

It is a known fact that mining laws in any country is considered as a most important aspect and is necessary for the development of the country and especially for India being a developing country. But still India is struggling with the proper implementation of law as number of cases has been seen where the mining is been exploited by the players of the mining industry. This research paper is an attempt to analyse the important legislations regarding mining laws in India and are they sufficient to fulfil the current needs of the country specifically, the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957. In this paper, the researchers would focus upon the important mining laws which regulates the mining sector in India and focus upon the implementation of the same by the government. First of all, the important mining legislations will be discussed and analysed in the paper. Further, the paper would throw light upon the challenges which are existing in the country in regard of the mining sector and in the respect of which the Legislature should look upon the challenges and do the necessary changes which are necessary in the current times. In support of this, this research would also look upon the judgements passed by the respective Courts in the context of lack of implementation of the mining laws in India. Finally, the analysis and the way forward will be discussed in this paper.

Ag nanoparticle decorated β-Ga2O3 nanowires on Si substrates: advancing photodetector technology

In this study, we present the fabrication of Ag nanoparticle (NP) decorated β-Ga2O3 nanowire (NW) on a Si-substrate, with a focus on their application in photodetection. The resulting Ag NP decorated β-Ga2O3 NW exhibited a polycrystalline morphology characterized by well-aligned rows of vertically oriented structures. The mean size of the crystallites was revealed to be approximately 15.94 nm. The fabrication of Ag NP decorated β-Ga2O3 NW displayed uniformity, with an average length of approximately ∼180 nm. The UV-Vis absorption spectroscopy analysis yielded an approximate optical bandgap value of 4.74 eV. Notably, the fabricated photodetector exhibited excellent performance characteristics. This was highlighted by the minimal dark current of −3.2 nA at a bias voltage of −1 V, accompanied by an I L/I D ratio exceeding 50. Moreover, the photodetector demonstrated rapid rise and fall times of 0.023 s and 0.021 s, respectively. The remarkable aspect lies in the simultaneous attainment of minimum dark current and swift response times. The Ag NP-decorated β-Ga2O3 NW photodetector exhibited consistent and reproducible behavior, suggesting its potential for realistic use in ultraviolet photodetection.

Evaluation of Radiological Health Hazard Indices Arising from Diagnostic X-Ray Rooms

The effective dose of selected health care workers who are constantly exposed to X-ray radiation was measured using thermoluminescence dosimeters (TLD) placed over the lead apron at the chest region in all categories of medical personnel investigated. The objective is to conduct radiation measurements in various chosen hospitals to determine the level of exposure from X-ray machines precisely at a distance of 1 meter from the primary source. The work was carried out within a year in each of the selected centers. The personnel examination records containing the type of examination each day, peak tube voltage, tube current, and exposure time, including the actual number of films used, were obtained. A total of 40 personnel were examined in the Government Hospital, Agbor, 21 in Central Hospital Owa Alero and 18 in Okonye Hospital. The method used here has also been used by other researchers. Findings showed that the results obtained from the three hospitals investigated in this work were found to conform with the recommendations of the National Commission on Radiological and Protection {NCRP} 70 and 116 protocols. The Radiologists in the three study areas have the highest dose level, but of particular note is the dosage of the radiologists in Okonye hospital. This, as observed, is because the protective shielding parameters were inadequate and this could result in severe health consequences over time.

“Middle way” in the description of ultrashort electromagnetic interactions: between Fermi’s golden rule and the numerical solution of the Schrödinger equation

A simple efficient approach describing the interaction of various quantum targets with short electromagnetic (EM) pulses firstly proposed in [1] is reviewed. This approach is based on the expression for the photoprocess probability in terms of the cross section and the Fourier transform of the EM pulse. Our method makes it possible to take into account the internal dynamics of the target and the influence of the pulse parameters in a simple way. The proposed approach is used both for the probability for the entire pulse duration, and for its dependence on the current time. In addition, the developed method is applied to generalize the simulation of the population kinetics of a quantum system to take into account the dependence of the photoprocess rate on time. It is also shown that our expression for the probability of excitation of a micro-target corresponds to the formula describing the energy loss of a non-monochromatic field in a dispersive medium and can be generalized on other EM processes.

Study on pulse current auxiliary heating process of submerged arc welding

During the welding process, temperature filed distribution of weldment is one of the key factors which influence welding quality. In order to improve the mechanical properties of welding joint, a technology for heating process of weldment using auxiliary pulse current was proposed in this article. Firstly, through metallographic experiment, strength experiment and hardness experiment, it was proved that the auxiliary pulse current not only can refine grain size but also improves the mechanical property of the welding joint. Then the paper used ANSYS and its ANSYS Parametric Design Language parametric design language to simulate the welding process with assistant pulse current, and the temperature field, the pulse current density distribution and the time of effective pulse current in the welded joint were obtained. Quantitative analyses were undertaken on the influence laws of auxiliary pulse current parameters on weld temperature field, auxiliary pulse current density distribution and the time of effective pulse current. A new parameter was defined as time-current density (the time integral of current density) to demonstrate the change rule of auxiliary pulse current density distribution with time. Finally, analyzing the reasons for raising the welding quality. There were two reasons for such phenomenon: one was auxiliary pulse current change the state of heat distribution in the weld seam area, the other was that the impulse oscillation of the auxiliary pulse influences the nucleation process of melting region.

Short rise- and decay-time Z-pinch currents for soft x-ray laser excitation

The article addresses how to create inductance-free plasma and use it to excite soft x-ray lasers. The method employs a bifilar phenomenon in which one part of the pulsed current flows via the plasma column while the other part runs in the opposite direction via the closely placed external conductor. The electromagnetic fields formed by the plasma and return conductor are adjusted by lowering the distance between them to neutralize the magnetic field of the bifilar. Because the net transient magnetic field is drastically reduced, the plasma-conductor mutual inductance is near zero during current rise and decay. The inductance-free (L ∼ 2 nH) 35 cm-long Z pinches in a 3.1 mm-diameter argon-filled alumina capillary with current rise and decay times of 15 ns, dI/dt > 1012 A/s, and amplitudes up to 17 kA were predicted, realized, and verified to be suitable for pumping soft x-ray Ar+8 lasers. Without the bifilar phenomenon, the 35 cm Z pinches obey a 200 nH inductance that restricts the rise and decay durations of currents to 150 ns. The 35 cm Z pinches with 2 nH inductance generated 46.9 nm laser pulses with up to 4 μJ of energy and a beam divergence of 2 mrad at a low operating voltage of 35–45 kV, compared to 0.1–0.8 MV for similar lasers. The bifilar method could find applications in many research and technological fields, where the rise and decay times of discharge currents play a key role.

Improvements the direct torque control performance for an induction machine using fuzzy logic controller

This article examines a solution to the major problems of induction machine control in order to achieve superior dynamic performance. Conventional direct torque control and indirect control with flux orientation have some drawbacks, such as current harmonics, torque ripples, flux ripples, and rise time. In this article, we propose a comparative analysis between previous approaches and the one using fuzzy logic. Results from the simulation show that the direct torque control method using fuzzy logic is more effective in providing a precise and fast response without overshooting, and it eliminates torque and flux fluctuations at low switching frequencies. The demonstrated improvements in dynamic performance contribute to increased operational efficiency and reliability in industrial applications.

Numerical analysis of the powder mixed electrical discharge machining (PMEDM) process for TZM-molybdenum superalloy using finite element method

The powder mixed electrical discharge machining (PMEDM) process was simulated via finite element analysis in the current study to assess heat behavior and material removal rate. The goal of this paper is to conduct a thorough experimental and thermal examination of electrical discharge machining (EDM) in order to forecast its cutting characteristics and subsequently optimize the output variables using a response surface methodology for simulations and choosing the most suitable set of process variables related to the PMEDM process. This study’s objective is to design a 2D axisymmetrical transient thermal model that might also describe the physics of material removal in a single spark PMEDM operation on a Titanium Zirconium Molybdenum (TZM) superalloy. ANSYS (version 9.1) software is used to perform transient heat transfer simulations to determine the temperature profile with the amount of material removal at different current, pulse on and off times, gap voltages, and fraction of heat that enters the specimen. The PMEDM process produced craters with a lower diameter and depth, which increased the material removal rate and enhanced the surfacing quality. Compared to the conventional EDM process, the inclusion of powder raised the heat flux given to the work material by 10%–12%. It has been determined that with the single spark modeling technique, the temperature significantly dropped in both the radial and depth directions. The computational results are compared with experimental observations for similar machining conditions, and both results agree satisfactorily.

Pulsar Timing Array signature from oscillating metric perturbations due to ultra-light axion

Abstract A coherently oscillating ultra-light axion can behave as dark matter. In particular, its coherently oscillating pressure perturbations can source an oscillating scalar metric perturbation, with a characteristic oscillation frequency which is twice the axion Compton frequency. A candidate in the mass range 10(-24,-21) eV can provide a signal in the frequency range tested by current and future Pulsar Timing Array (PTA) programs. Involving the pressure perturbations in a highly nonlinear environment, such an analysis demands a relativistic and nonlinear treatment. Here, we provide a rigorous derivation of the effect assuming weak-gravity and slow-motion limit of Einstein's gravity in zero-shear gauge and show that dark matter's velocity potential determines the oscillation phase and frequency change. A monochromatic PTA signal correlated with the velocity field would confirm the prediction, for example, by cross-correlating the PTA results with the future local velocity flow measurements.

Enhancing the sensitivity of nanopipette biosensors for protein analysis

AbstractBackgroundThis paper compares experimental findings and simulation outcomes of single and multiple protein models moving through a nanopipette biosensor. It provides insights into the factors influencing the process and explores their relevance to proteomics.MethodsNanopipette biosensors were produced by pulling borosilicate glass tubes and treating them with an electron beam. A scanning electron microscope was used to characterize the nanopipettes. The study measured and modeled ionic currents for the elastase‐specific inhibitor protein. Simulation models were developed using the finite element method and Poisson–Boltzmann formalism, considering different protein configurations and translocation scenarios.ResultsThe results showed that the pore current of a nanopipette decreases as the protein approaches the nanopipette. The minimum pore current occurs at the widest part of the protein, and the current increases as the protein progresses through the nanopipette. For multiple protein translocations, the pore current decreases between the widest parts of the first and second proteins, and the lowest current is observed at the broadest part of the second protein. After the third protein, the pore current remains constant. It is also found that the fractional blockade difference, translocation speed, fluctuation in pore current, and dwell time are all affected by the number of proteins translocating through the nanopipette. The fractional blockade difference, the decrease in pore current caused by the protein, increases with the number of proteins while the translocation speed decreases. The fluctuation in pore current and dwell time is also longer for three‐protein translocations than for single‐protein translocations.ConclusionThis study offers valuable insights into biomolecule transport through nanopipettes, enhances our understanding of protein dynamics in restricted environments, and significantly contributes to single‐protein sequencing studies, drug screening, and proteomics.

A condition fitting method of temperature field for tunnel structure based on test measurements

Accurate temperature distribution of the tunnel lining under a fire scenario is crucial for conducting reliable thermal–mechanical investigations, as it directly impacts thermal stress and property degradation. In this regard, achieving consistency between simulation and actual response is imperative. However, the precision of most simulated temperature fields is hindered by a phenomenon known as the 'temperature platform', which occurs around the vaporization point of water. To this end, a Condition Fitting Method (CFM) is proposed in this paper. In CFM, optimal parameters are adjusted based on local historical measurements, enabling the acquisition of a detailed temperature field for the entire tunnel structure in real-time or even forward time step. Based on a preliminary segment fire test, the implementation of CFM successfully captures the temporal characteristics of the temperature platform on certain survey points. The results of both the current and forward time steps obtained from CFM demonstrate close agreement with the reference measurements obtained from the fire test, indicating consistency throughout the entire process. The maximum average error of the calculation result on survey points is 50.4 °C while the value for prediction result is 65.3 °C. For further investigation, a parametric study is conducted to identify the most crucial parameters. Additionally, numerical verification is performed to assess the feasibility of the proposed method and to compare the efficiency of different optimal algorithms. The results indicate that the proposed method has overcome the drawback of conventional simulation method that the temperature deviate from actual values at early stage. This achievement ensures that the proposed method provides a reliable temperature field for further investigations.

Automatic recognition of second language speech-in-noise.

Measuring how well human listeners recognize speech under varying environmental conditions (speech intelligibility) is a challenge for theoretical, technological, and clinical approaches to speech communication. The current gold standard-human transcription-is time- and resource-intensive. Recent advances in automatic speech recognition (ASR) systems raise the possibility of automating intelligibility measurement. This study tested 4 state-of-the-art ASR systems with second language speech-in-noise and found that one, whisper, performed at or above human listener accuracy. However, the content of whisper's responses diverged substantially from human responses, especially at lower signal-to-noise ratios, suggesting both opportunities and limitations for ASR--based speech intelligibility modeling.

First report of Phyllachora maydis causing tar spot on corn in Delaware.

In October 2023, lesions consistent with descriptions of tar spot (Phyllachora maydis) were observed on corn (Zea mays) in Kent and Sussex County, Delaware (DE). Black, raised stromata were observed on leaves of commercially grown corn hybrids. Plants were at physiological maturity and disease severity was low with symptoms present on 1 to 10% of plants. In collected tissue, individual leaf severities ranged from 1 to 3% of leaf area with lesions. Hyaline conidia measuring approximately 15.5 µm in length and 0.5 µm in width were observed microscopically (n=5). Stromata were excised and sterilized in a 0.825% sodium hypochlorite solution for 30 s, rinsed in sterile deionized water for 30 s, and dried on a sterile paper towel for 30 s. Tissues were ground in a 1.5 mL microcentrifuge tube with a sterile plastic pestle. DNA was extracted using a DNeasy Plant Mini Kit (Qiagen). DNA was amplified at the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region with ITS4 and ITS5 primers using polymerase chain reaction (PCR). NCBI BLAST search results yielded 100% sequence homology and 100% query cover (350/515 bp) to P. maydis accession MG881848.1 (Moura et al. 2023). Koch's postulates could not be completed due to the obligate nature of P. maydis. Tarspot was initially discovered in the United States in 2016 in Indiana and Illinois (Ruhl et al. 2016).This is the first report of tar spot on corn in DE. Yield losses from P. maydis can range depending on time of infection, environmental factors, and hybrid susceptibility and have been recorded up to 100% (Rocco da Silva et al. 2021). Because the disease did not enter the area until the end of the season, no yield impact was observed for 2023. Monitoring for the progression of disease will be crucial for future seasons (Telenko et al. 2020). High humidity and moisture levels favor disease development. Approximately half of DE corn acreage is irrigated due to sandy soils, current irrigation timing strategies may need to be reevaluated. Fungicide efficacy trials for management of tar spot have been conducted in other regions, but continued research will be needed to assess management options and optimize application timing for farmers in DE and the Mid-Atlantic region.

Association between statin use and tuberculosis risk in patients with bronchiectasis: a retrospective population-based cohort study in Taiwan

BackgroundChronic airway diseases have been associated with an increased risk of tuberculosis (TB); however, data in patients with bronchiectasis is limited. Statins have been shown to exhibit anti-inflammatory effects by...

Regeneration of As(V)-loaded granular activated carbon through electrocoagulation.

As(V)-loaded granular activated carbon was regenerated through electrocoagulation assisted by elution with NaCl. Adsorption of As(V) by activated carbon was highest at pH6, and subsequent desorption in water was highest at pH 11, followed by pH3. Lower initial pH improved arsenic removal during electrocoagulation, NaCl concentration was insignificant, but removal increased with current density. Adding Fe(II) before electrocoagulation led to an improved removal efficiency up to a concentration of 30 mg/L. Regeneration of As(V)-loaded activated carbon increased with current density and time up to a maximum of 85%. An increase in NaCl concentration to 6000 mg/L further improved regeneration to 92%. Regeneration at a lower current density only dropped slightly from 54% to 51% when doubling activated carbon concentration, demonstrating excellent scalability. Repeated adsorption-desorption tests were performed, where 81% and 69% regeneration were obtained after four regenerations with NaCl concentrations of 6000 and 750 mg/L, respectively. NaCl concentration in the tested range did not influence electrocoagulation but improved regeneration through elution. The combination of electrocoagulation and elution facilitated a higher regeneration efficiency, meanwhile removing As(V) from the solution through adsorption on iron hydroxide. PRACTITIONER POINTS: As(V)-loaded activated carbon was regenerated by electrocoagulation with elution. Regeneration increased with regeneration time and current density up to 85%. Addition of 6000 mg/L NaCl further increased regeneration to 93%. Regeneration of 82% was achieved after four regenerations. NaCl did not affect electrocoagulation but improved regeneration through elution.

IoT-based Smart Pill Reminding System

Background: The concept of pill reminders has been discussed and developed throughout the decade. It varies from cascaded plastic pill boxes to complicated robust dispensers. This proposed smart pill reminding system based on IoT is being designed by considering ease-to-use and cost-effectiveness. Method: A smart pill reminding system is a system that will alert the patient to take their respective pill at the desired time. It will also track the motion of the patient’s hand while taking the pill and will also display the pill count on an LCD Screen. In case a patient forgets/ignores the reminder provided by the system, the system will automatically display the status on the application that will be installed in the relative/caretaker’s phone and through an email on the patient's relative/caretaker’s email address to take subsequent action. The system will monitor the real-time using an RTC module, and as and when the current time matches the medicines time, it will activate its mechanism, and the patient will have a buffer time to take their medicine. In case a patient does take the medicine in the buffer time provided by the system, then one mechanism of the system will be activated. In another case, if a patient does not take the medicine in the stipulated time, further actions will be initiated by the system to benefit the patient. Results: It was tested and found that out of ten times, the system worked accurately nine times, with calculated accuracy as high as 90%. Initially, the Blynk application will display “Welcome Patient” and “You will be updated”. Once the RTC matches the scheduled time to take medicine, the buzzer starts buzzing. If the IR sensor detects the movement of the user’s hand, the LCD will update the pill count, and the pill count is reduced by one. The LCD will also display the message “Medicine Taken”. If the IR sensor does not detect the movement of the user’s hand, the LCD will display the same pill count. The LCD will also display the message “Med1 not Taken”. The Blynk will also be updated and will display the same messages. The green LED shows the status of the consumption of the pill. The email will sent to the caretaker in this case. Conclusion: In this work, all the problems related to the system are overcome in a systematic manner with the help of IoT and basic electronic applications. Thus, the system will help the user take all the prescribed medicines on time and will also update the user’s caretaker via application and email services. This will largely help the working class as well as the senior citizens. Thus, this proposed system can be commercialised as a handy and cost-effective device.