Plate Configuration Research Articles

Experimental investigation on the performance of a two-stage electrostatic precipitation at corona discharge

In this paper, our attention has been focused on the effect of the presence of dust particles on the characteristics of the corona discharge in an ESP electrostatic precipitator in wires to plate configuration. Different parameters are taken into account, in particular the influence of the polarity, of the source of continuous electric excitation, the number of active electrodes and the dimensions of the particles of the dust. The dust used is recovered in the chimney of a cement plant is sieved to have different particle sizes 80,250 and 500μm. Dust particles pass through the inter-electrode space. By corona effect, there will be an ionization of the gas around the wire, and creation of ions and electrons. The latter bombard the dust that is charged with electricity and are then attracted to the surface of the plates under the effect of the electric field. Dust is deposited on the plate electrodes. A model in the laboratory was used for the measurement of the discharge current and to plot the I-V characteristic as a function of the number of active electrodes in absence and in the presence of different dimensions of the particles of the dust particles.

Neo-Hookean modeling of nonlinear coupled behavior in circular plates supported by micro-pillars

In the contemporary era, the enhancement of wearable capacitive sensors is achieved through the utilization of polymeric micropillars as filler materials between electrode plates. To gain a deeper understanding of the dynamic response of the system, nonlinear coupled governing equations of a circular microplate motion resting on an array of polymeric micropillars have been derived. These equations are used to model the system’s behavior. In addition, the squeezing motion of the micro-pillars is characterized using the incompressible Neo-Hookean model. Both static and dynamic responses, including transient and steady-state solutions, are investigated in detail by discretizing over spatial coordinates using a weak formulation approach. A frequency response analysis is conducted using a continuation-based method. This entails expanding the steady-state solution using a Fourier transform and employing the energy balance principle. The unknown coefficients of the expansion series are calculated using a gradient descent-based learning approach that is physically motivated. Furthermore, a dynamic step size strategy for frequency increments is employed to effectively follow the solution path. This strategy is implemented via the ARC length method. In this study, we examine the impact of varying PDMS (polydimethylsiloxane) hydrogel mechanical and geometrical configurations. It can be reasonably concluded that the mechanical properties of the pillars and the geometrical configuration of the circular plate and micropillars have a significant impact on the maximum tolerable pressure, fast transient response, and frequency response analysis.

Maximizing desalination performance in pyramid distiller: Integration of vertical wick still and enhanced phase change material by nanoparticle and emerging fins

The growing global water crisis, driven by population growth and dwindling freshwater resources, demands innovative solutions for sustainable desalination. While traditional solar still designs have been explored, their efficiency remains limited. This study introduces an advanced approach to solar distillation by integrating a modified pyramid solar still (MPSS) with two key innovations: a vertically positioned wick still (VWSS) and phase change material (PCM) enhanced with silver nanomaterials (PCM-Ag Nano). In addition, the design features two absorber plate configurations—flat and finned—coupled with emerging fins (EF) within the PCM unit to improve heat conductivity, addressing a common limitation in solar distillation systems. By incorporating PCM-Ag Nano and finned absorbers, the MPSS achieved significant improvements in desalination performance. The combined system of MPSS-FA-PCM-Ag-EF and VWSS produced a total distillate volume of 12,870 ml, representing a 154 % increase over a conventional pyramid solar still (PSS). Specifically, daily outputs of 9,270 ml, 5,050 ml, and 3,600 ml were recorded for MPSS, PSS, and VWSS, respectively. Furthermore, the enhanced MPSS configuration attained the highest thermal efficiency at 60.5 %, and the desalination cost was reduced to $0.0142/L, compared to $0.019/L for the PSS. These results underscore the potential of this novel MPSS design, which combines PCM-Ag Nano and VWSS, to deliver substantial improvements in freshwater production, thermal efficiency, and cost-effectiveness. This innovative system offers a promising alternative to traditional desalination techniques, contributing to the global effort to mitigate water scarcity.

Investigation of the effect of different absorber plate configurations of hemispherical solar still

A significant global challenge is potable water scarcity. Solar stills (SS) offer a simple, efficient solution using renewable energy for desalination. This study experimentally investigates the effect of absorber plate configuration and mass flow rate on the thermal performance of a hemispherical solar still (HSS). Three absorber plate configurations were chosen: cone, funnel, and funnel stepped. Experiments were conducted at mass flow rates of 0.033 kg/s, 0.066 kg/s, and 0.1 kg/s on the 12th, 13th, and August 14, 2023. The experimental results indicated that the best configuration was achieved for the hemispherical funnel stepped solar stepped (HFSSS) along the hemispherical cone solar still (HCSS) and hemispherical funnel solar still (HFSS). The best performance was achieved by the HFSSS at the lowest mass flow rate of 0.033 kg/s. The average daily productivity and the average daily thermal efficiency of the HFSSS at the lowest mass flow rate of 0.033 kg/s increased by 62 % (4.61 L/m2.day for the HFSSS versus 2.84 L/m2.day for the HCSS) and 67 % (42 % for the HFSSS versus 25 % for the HCSS), respectively, compared to the HCSS. In addition, the cost analysis shows that the HFSSS was a cost-effective configuration compared to other SSs.

Dynamic evolution of competing same-dip double subduction: New perspectives of the Neo-Tethyan plate tectonics

Same-dip double-subduction (SDDS) systems are widely reported from present as well as past complex convergent plate tectonic configurations. However, the dynamics of their evolution is poorly understood, which is crucial to conceptualize anomalous subducting slab kinematics and associated observed geological phenomena, such as irregular trench migration rates, high convergence velocities, and slab break-off. To bridge this gap, we develop dynamic thermo-mechanical subduction models and investigate the initiation and evolution of SDDS systems, considering three different initial plate configurations: oceanic, oceanic-continental and multiple continental settings, based on Neo-Tethyan paleo-reconstructions. Each model offers new insights into the complex tectonic history of the major Neo-Tethyan subduction zones, particularly the Indo–Eurasian and Andaman convergent systems. We evaluate the slab-slab interactions, trench and subduction kinematics, inter-plate reorganization, and temporally varying mantle flow patterns involved in the dynamic evolution of these SDDS systems. The oceanic SDDS model simulations reveal that a sizable oceanic plate can initiate two subduction zones synchronously, and they evolve unequally in a competing mode, leading to exceptionally high convergence rates (∼16–17 cm/year) for a prolonged duration (∼7–8 Myr). This finding explains the coeval activity of coupled subduction zones in the Indo-Eurasia convergence during the Cretaceous evolution of the Neo-Tethys. We further implement a corresponding single subduction model to assess the additional effects of competing slab kinematics in an oceanic SDDS setting. The ocean-continent SDDS model, on the other hand, localizes subduction preferentially at passive margins between the oceanic plate and the continental block, forming double subduction zones that grow almost equally to form a spreading centre between the two trenches. These model results allow to reconstruct the Cenozoic evolution of the eastern Neo-Tethyan region, which ultimately led to the development of the Andaman subduction zone. We also show the post-Cretaceous evolution of the Indo–Eurasian collision zone as a consequence of the SDDS dynamics in presence of multiple continental blocks. These dynamics facilitated slab break-off, transforming the SDDS into a single subduction system in a relatively short time frame (∼3 Myr). We finish with a synthesis of the paleo-reconstructions of the Neo-Tethys in the perspective of these SDDS models.

Optimization of Wavy Geometries for Enhanced Condensation Heat Transfer on Vertical Plates: An Experimental Study

In this study, macro-scale wavy geometries are used to enhance condensation heat transfer on vertical plates. Three wavy plates with different amplitudes (3.33mm, 4.17mm, and 5.56mm) were compared to a flat plate over a temperature difference range of 12K to 50K. For each plate configuration, heat transfer coefficient (HTC), enhancement factor (EF), heat flux (q), and Reynolds number (Re) were measured. Several studies have demonstrated that wavy surfaces offer better performance than flat surfaces, with the highest performance showing up for the 4.17 mm amplitude plate (Wave-2). At higher temperature differences, this optimal configuration achieved enhancement factors up to 1.31. As a result of the study, Reynolds numbers for the largest amplitude plate were 2.4 times higher than for the flat plate, indicating that increasing wave amplitude does not necessarily result in better heat transfer. These findings provide valuable insights for optimizing heat exchanger design in various industrial applications, offering a practical and cost-effective approach to improving falling film condensation heat transfer efficiency.

Long-range repulsion between chromosomes in mammalian oocyte spindles.

During eukaryotic cell division, a microtubule-based structure called the spindle exerts forces on chromosomes. The best-studied spindle forces, including those responsible for the separation of sister chromatids, are directed parallel to the spindle's long axis. By contrast, little is known about forces perpendicular to the spindle axis, which determine the metaphase plate configuration and thus the location of chromosomes in the subsequent nucleus. Using live-cell microscopy, we find that metaphase chromosomes are spatially anti-correlated in mouse oocyte spindles, evidence of previously unknown long-range forces acting perpendicular to the spindle axis. We explain this observation by showing that the spindle's microtubule network behaves as a nematic liquid crystal and that deformation of the nematic field around embedded chromosomes causes long-range repulsion between them.

A 96-Well LED Array for Multiplexed Photoelectrochemical Detection of Nucleic Acids.

Photoelectrochemical detection of nucleic acid-based cancer biomarkers offers opportunities for highly sensitive, selective, and fast quantitative detection using low-cost measurement instruments. In order to establish itself as a standard method for identifying and quantifying nucleic acids, we have developed a multiplexing strategy using LED technology for photoelectrochemical detection in 96 samples simultaneously. A dedicated setup based on the 96-well plate configuration with a custom-made 96-well LED array was developed. Subsequently, a proof-of-concept study was performed for three miRNAs that are associated with prostate cancer, i.e., miRNA-141, miRNA-145, and miRNA-375. First, measurements with photosensitizer chlorin e6 and redox reporter hydroquinone free in solution proved the proper functioning of the multiplexed detection. Second, the photoelectrochemical detection of the three miRNAs at 24 nM levels was successfully demonstrated. Thereafter, linear calibration curves (R2 > 0.9 for all analytes) were made with plasma spiked with 8-500 pM miRNA. This work presents the first system for multiplexed high-throughput photoelectrochemical detection, allowing it potentially to become a cost-effective and faster alternative to RT-qPCR and gene sequencing techniques in the future.

Nail–Plate Constructs for Treating Distal Femur Fractures: A Systematic Review of Biomechanical Studies

The biomechanical efficacy of nail–plate constructs (NPCs) used in the treatment of traumatic distal femur fractures (DFFs) remains understudied compared to traditional approaches. This systematic review examines the biomechanical efficacy of NPCs compared to alternative approaches for the surgical fixation of DFFs to guide surgical decision-making and improve patient outcomes. This systematic review searched the PubMed, CINAHL, MEDLINE, Web of Science, and SPORT Discus databases from inception until 24 January 2024. Inclusion criteria were biomechanical studies that involved nail–plate combination constructs for DFFs. Six observational studies were included. Of the included studies, five studies utilized synthetic bone models in testing, and one study used both synthetic and cadaveric bone models. All studies found NPCs to have significantly higher axial and torsional stiffness and resistance to loading than distal lateral femoral locking plate (DLFLP) constructs. The 11 mm NPCs were significantly stiffer than the 9 mm NPCs under torsional and axial loading. Only one of two studies found NPCs to have greater axial stiffness than dual-plate (DP) constructs. NPCs and DP constructs had greater torsional and axial stiffness than the plate-only or DP with medial distal tibial plate constructs. NPCs had less displacement and torque than the plate- or nail-only constructs under axial and torsional loads. NPCs demonstrate superior axial and torsional stiffness and resistance to mechanical loads compared to DLFLP. The varying performance between 11 mm and 9 mm NPCs suggests that construct diameter plays a role in mechanical stability. NPCs and DP constructs performed better than plate-only constructs. Future research should explore the impact of varying nail diameters and plate configurations on stability, as well as the clinical efficacy of NPCs across different patient populations, particularly those with varying bone densities, to better understand their performance in real-world scenarios.

Design and aerodynamic stability improvement study of a non-axisymmetric stator fan in a distorted insertion plate configuration

The design of anti-distortion fans must ensure the reliable operation and flight safety of propulsion systems under inlet distortion conditions. This research uses an insertion plate to obtain the inlet distortion flow field for a specific type of turbofan engine. Based on the characteristics of distortion effects, a novel strategy is proposed to rapidly implement a non-axisymmetric stator (NAS) quasi-three-dimensional design to create anti-distortion fan designs and improve the performance and stability of the fan in distortion environments. Numerical studies show that under three rotational speed operating conditions, the NAS effectively improves the total pressure ratio and efficiency characteristics of the fan under inlet distortion conditions. Compared to the prototype, the NAS can significantly increase the stability margins by 10.31 %, 8.31 %, and 7.39 % under the three different speed operating conditions, which effectively expands the stability boundaries. The NAS design directly affects the distortion region, effectively improves the incidence angle of stator vanes in the distortion region, suppresses the development and migration of vortices inside the stator passage, and significantly reduces the stator vane diffusion factor. Because it effectively eliminates corner separations and makes the incidence angle distribution of stator vanes relatively circumferentially uniform, the internal flow field of the fan's stator vanes and overall aerodynamic performance of the fan improve. Furthermore, the NAS design can improve the internal flow field downstream of the fan, direct the nonuniform flow field at the inner bypass outlet toward circumferential uniformity, and effectively improve flow field uniformity.

Multi-Dimensional Modelling of Bioinspired Flow Channels Based on Plant Leaves for PEM Electrolyser

The Polymer Electrolyte Membrane Water Electrolyser (PEMWE) has gained significant interest among various electrolysis methods due to its ability to produce highly purified, compressed hydrogen. The spatial configuration of bipolar plates and their flow channel patterns play a critical role in the efficiency and longevity of the PEM water electrolyser. Optimally designed flow channels ensure uniform pressure and velocity distribution across the stack, enabling high-pressure operation and facilitating high current densities. This study uses flow channel geometry inspired by authentic vine leaf patterns found in biomass, based on various plant leaves, including Soybean, Victoria Amazonica, Water Lily, Nelumbo Nucifera, Kiwi, and Acalypha Hispida leaves, as a novel channel pattern to design a PEM bipolar plate with a circular cross-section area of 13.85 cm2. The proposed bipolar design is further analysed with COMSOL Multiphysics to integrate the conservation of mass and momentum, molecular diffusion (Maxwell–Stefan), charge transfer equations, and other fabrication factors into a cohesive single-domain model. The simulation results showed that the novel designs have the most uniform velocity profile, lower pressure drop, superior pressure distribution, and heightened mixture homogeneity compared to the traditional serpentine models.

Ballistic performance of aluminum alloy plates with polyurea coatings for high-speed train structures

Polyurea coatings have been widely promoted in explosion and ballistic impact protection applications due to their excellent hyper-elasticity performance. In rail transportation, high-speed trains face potential impact threats from track ballast, which can affect the strength performance of the base material. To address these challenges, we examined the ballistic performances of aluminum alloy plates with polyurea coatings under large-scale impact (>30 mm). Four different configurations of target plates were investigated: A, P-A, A-P, and P-A-P. We fabricated samples and performed dynamic impact tests using an air cannon system to demonstrate the feasibility. Results show that ballistic performance is significantly improved by applying polyurea coatings on aluminum alloy plates. In particular, the growth rate of limit velocity of configuration A-P, P-A, and P-A-P to that of configuration A are 5.5 %, 19.4 %, and 22.8 %, respectively. The enhancement mechanism was further uncovered through stress wave propagation analysis and lateral energy diffusion effect. Explicit formulas for predicting the limit velocity and residual velocity were derived and demonstrated with reasonable accuracy over a wide range of parameter spaces. The observed enhancement in ballistic performance through polyurea coatings on aluminum alloy plates offers promising ways to design and implement more resilient and impact-resistant high-speed train structures.

Numerical study of steel beam to reinforce concrete column (RCC) connection with through-plate and buckling-restrained steel plates

This study examines the behavior and failure mechanisms of steel beam-to-reinforced concrete column connections with through-plate and buckling-restrained steel plates (BRSPs) configurations. These connections are critical components in composite steel and concrete structures, playing a vital role in force transfer and resistance to various loads, especially dynamic loads such as earthquakes. The primary objective of this study is to analyze the hysteresis behavior of these connections under cyclic loading using numerical analyses. Parametric models with varying BRSP thicknesses, ranging from 5 to 25 mm, were used to investigate their impact on hysteresis behavior and load-bearing capacity. The effects of different BRSP thicknesses on stress distribution and failure mechanisms were analyzed. The results from the parametric studies show that increasing the thickness of BRSPs improves the stress distribution in the beam-to-column connections. This improvement includes reduced stress concentration and enhanced uniformity of stress distribution, which can lead to reduced localized failures and increased overall connection stability. Numerical simulations indicate that the use of BRSPs (with a thickness of 15 and 17 mm) results in wider and more stable hysteresis loops, reflecting increased energy absorption capacity and improved deformation behavior of the connections under cyclic loading. The findings show that BRSPs can reduce failure concentration, increase flexural resistance, and prevent buckling in steel beams. These results underscore the importance of using BRSPs to enhance structural performance and mitigate potential failures under severe loading conditions.

Effect of material anisotropy on the first-order vibration of piezoelectric oscillators in circular plate configurations

Valveless piezoelectric pumps are widely used in microfluidic actuation because of their simple structure, ease of integration, absence of electromagnetic interference, minimal valve wear, and absence of frequency–response lag issues. These pumps primarily rely on chamber volume changes, causing most piezoelectric oscillators to operate in the first-order vibration mode. However, recent studies on valveless piezoelectric pumps have observed that many pumps exhibit two flow peaks at similar operating frequencies; the underlying mechanism behind this anomaly remains underexplored. In this study, we investigated the impact of substrate metal on the first-order vibrations of piezoelectric oscillators. By conducting tensile tests on rolled pure copper sheets, we measured Poisson's ratio and the elastic modulus in both the parallel and perpendicular rolling directions. Subsequently, we derived the natural frequencies on the plane. Experimental verification of the theoretical predictions was achieved through amplitude experiments conducted on piezoelectric oscillators in air. The dual-peak flow phenomenon was demonstrated to be solely related to the substrate metal of the piezoelectric oscillator. This is attributed to the presence of two first-order vibration natural frequencies on the plane of the substrate metal, resulting in the generation of two amplitude peaks and consequently the appearance of two flow peaks.

Comparative analysis of internal fixation modalities for PER type IV ankle fractures: a finite element study

BackgroundThere are many options for the surgical treatment of pronation external rotation (PER) type IV ankle fractures, including the use of fibular plates and screws, the aim of this study was to investigate the biomechanical stability and safety of different internal fixation methods for PER type IV ankle fractures via finite element analysis.MethodsA three-dimensional finite element model of the ankle joint and the whole foot of a healthy 26-years-old adult male was established and validated based on computed tomography images of his lower limb, and a computer-aided design was used to produce a PER type IV ankle fracture and plate and screw model. Four different internal fixation modes were simulated, including a (all ankle fixation—utilizing a fibular plate and screws for comprehensive stabilization of the ankle), b (inferior tibiofibular joint fixation + all ankle fixation), c (inferior tibiofibular joint fixation + unfixed anterior ankle), and d (inferior tibiofibular joint fixation + unfixed anterior and posterior ankles). The results of the four different fixation methods were compared via finite element analysis, and the von Mises stresses. The displacements of the four different fixation methods were analyzed as the output indices.ResultsThere were no significant differences between the results of using fibular plates and screws and the displacement of fracture breaks among the four internal fixation modalities. The von Mises stress in the tibiotalar joint, median ankle, posterior ankle, and anterior ankle was minimized in the working condition of d, d, b, and d respectively. The von Mises stress in the fibular plate and screws was minimized in the working condition of a. The von Mises stress in the distal fibula was minimized in the working condition of a. However, the stress was mainly concentrated at the attachment point of the inferior tibiofibular anterior ligament, and in the working condition with inferior tibiofibular joint fixation, the stress was significantly concentrated in the inferior tibiofibular joint screw in all the fibular plates and screws.ConclusionsThe results of this study demonstrate the feasibility of using finite element analysis to compare the biomechanical stability and safety of four configurations of fibular plates and screws for treating PER type IV ankle fractures. All four modalities provided comparable biomechanical stability and safety, showing no significant differences. However, the current limitations of the finite element analysis methodology preclude specific clinical inferences. Further refinement of the methodology in future studies is necessary to enable reliable clinical applications.

Study of effects of perforation layouts on wave energy dissipation caused by a submerged perforated breakwater in front of a vertical seawall

Perforated structures are a promising alternative to traditional breakwaters for constructing harbors and protecting coastlines. Perforated structures can effectively remove wave energy from ocean waves by the energy dissipation associated with the turbulence generated by the flow through the perforations in the structure. Understanding the factors that may affect the hydrodynamic characteristics of flow through a perforated plate is important for designing perforated marine structures. The purpose of this research was to determine the wave energy dissipation performance of thin-walled plates with various perforation configurations using OpenFOAM-based CFD simulation. Ten different plate configurations were designed and tested with a constant porosity while varying the distribution, shape, and size of the perforations, to determine the impacts to energy dissipation performance. The energy dissipation was quantified by CFD simulations of wave-interaction with a submerged perforated plate placed vertically in front of a vertical backwall (“seawall”). Physical wave flume experiments were also conducted to verify and validate the numerical models. The results showed that the perforation distribution, shape, and size play a minimal role in the energy dissipation performance when porosity is held constant. The minimal performance deviation between the perforation configurations was consistent across a range of wave periods and amplitudes.

Temperature-Driven Instabilities in High-Pressure Vessel Flat Plates: A Thermal Buckling Study

In the realm of high-pressure vessel simulation, conventional finite element method (FEM) approaches, as per ASME standards, may inadequately predict the behavior of flat surfaces under elevated temperatures. This study challenges the efficacy of shell-type mesh modeling for high-temperature flat plates, demonstrating that the thermal conditions within such high-pressure vessels can induce thermal instability and buckling, not accounted for by traditional FEM methods recommended by ASME. Through comprehensive analytical investigations, we reveal that traditional shell-type meshing techniques, while suitable for certain applications, fail to capture the intricate thermal stresses and deformation patterns inherent in high-temperature flat plate configurations. Our analysis delineates distinct stability regimes governed by key design parameters, including plate thickness, operating temperature, and geometric dimensions, profoundly impacting the structural integrity of heating plates under thermal loading. Specifically, we found that increasing the plate thickness enhances resistance to thermal buckling, clamping the plate edges raises the critical buckling temperature, and selecting materials with lower thermal expansion coefficients improves stability. These findings provide engineers with critical insights necessary for optimizing the design and performance of high-temperature equipment. This includes the design of high-pressure vessels with flat surfaces for heating materials, flanges in high-temperature environments, and fins in heat exchangers across various industries such as oil and gas, pyrolysis, and power plants. The findings presented herein serve as a valuable reference for engineers seeking to comprehend and mitigate instability phenomena in solid mechanics, offering practical guidance for developing robust and reliable high-temperature structures in demanding industrial environments.

Bone healing under different lay-up configuration of carbon fiber-reinforced PEEK composite plates.

Secondary healing of fractured bones requires an application of an appropriate fixator. In general, steel or titanium devices are used mostly. However, in recent years, composite structures arise as an attractive alternative due to high strength to weight ratio and other advantages like, for example, radiolucency. According to Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the only unidirectionally reinforced composite allowed to be implanted in human bodies is carbon fiber (CF)-reinforced poly-ether-ether-ketone (PEEK). In this work, the healing process of long bone assembled with CF/PEEK plates with cross- and angle-ply lay-up configurations is studied in the framework of finite element method. The healing is simulated by making use of the mechanoregulation model basing on the Prendergast theory. Cells transformation is determined by the octahedral shear strain and interstitial fluid velocity. The process runs iteratively assuming single load cycle each day. The fracture is subjected to axial and transverse forces. In the computations, the Abaqus program is used. It is shown that the angle-ply lamination scheme of CF/PEEK composite seems to provide better conditions for the transformation of the soft callus into the bone tissue.

Risk factors for dysfunctional elbow stiffness following operative fixation of distal humerus fractures

BackgroundElbow stiffness is one of the most common complications after operative fixation of distal humerus fractures; however, there is relatively limited literature assessing which factors are associated with this problem. The purpose of this study is to identify risk factors associated with dysfunctional elbow stiffness in distal humerus fractures after operative fixation. MethodsA retrospective review of all distal humerus fractures that underwent operative fixation (AO/OTA 13A-C) at a single level 1 trauma center from November 2014 to October 2021. A minimum six-month follow-up was required for inclusion or the outcome of interest. Dysfunctional elbow stiffness was defined as a flexion-extension arc of less than 100° at latest follow-up or any patient requiring surgical treatment for limited elbow range of motion. ResultsA total of 110 patients with distal humerus fractures were included in the study: 54 patients comprised the elbow stiffness group and 56 patients were in the control group. Average follow-up of 343 (59 to 2,079) days. Multiple logistic regression showed that orthogonal plate configuration (aOR: 5.70, 95% CI: 1.91-16.99, p=0.002), and longer operative time (aOR: 1.86, 95% CI: 1.11-3.10, p=0.017) were independently associated with an increased odds of elbow stiffness. OTA/AO 13A type fractures were significantly associated with a decreased odds of stiffness (aOR: 0.16, 95% CI: 0.03-0.80, p=0.026). Among 13C fractures, olecranon osteotomy (aOR: 5.48, 95% CI: 1.08-27.73, p=0.040) was also associated with an increased odds of elbow stiffness. There were no significant differences in injury mechanism, Gustilo-Anderson classification, reduction quality, days to surgery from admission, type of fixation, as well as rates of ipsilateral upper extremity fracture, neurovascular injury, nonunion, or infection between the two groups. ConclusionDysfunctional elbow stiffness was observed in 49.1% of patients who underwent operative fixation of distal humerus fractures in the present study. Orthogonal plate configuration, olecranon osteotomy, and longer operative time were associated with an increased odds of dysfunctional elbow stiffness; however, 13A type fractures were associated with decreased odds of stiffness. Patients with these injuries should be counseled on their risk of stiffness following surgery, and modifiable risk factors like plate positioning and performing an olecranon osteotomy should be considered by surgeons.

Colossal Near-Field Radiative Heat Transfer Mediated by Coupled Polaritons with an Ultrahigh Dynamic Range.

Near-field radiative heat transfer (NFRHT) can exceed the blackbody limit by several orders of magnitude owing to the tunneling evanescent waves. Exploiting this near-field enhancement holds significant potential for emerging technologies. It has been suggested that coupled polaritons can give rise to orders of magnitude enhancement of NFRHT. However, a thorough experimental verification of this phenomenon is still missing. Here this work experimentally shows that NFRHT mediated by coupled polaritons in millimeter-size graphene/SiC/SiO2 composite devices in planar plate configuration can realize about 302.8 ± 35.2-fold enhancement with respect to the blackbody limit at a gap distance of 87 ± 0.8nm. The radiative thermal conductance and effective gap heat transfer coefficient can reach unprecedented values of 0.136 WK-1 and 5440 Wm-2K-1. Additionally, a scattering-type scanning near-field optical measurement, in conjunction with full-wave numerical simulations, provides further evidence for the coupled polaritonic characteristics of the devices. Notably, this work experimentally demonstrates dynamic regulation of NFRHT can be achieved by modulating the bias voltage, leading to an ultrahigh dynamic range of ≈4.115. This work ambiguously elucidates the important role of coupled polaritons in NFRHT, paving the way for the manipulation of nanoscale heat transport, energy conversion, and thermal computing via the strong coupling effect.