Search Results (923)

Robin sequence (RS) is a rare congenital anomaly characterized by micrognathia, glossoptosis, and upper airway obstruction (UAO), often accompanied by a cleft palate. The Tübingen Palatal Plate (TPP), also referred to as the pre-epiglottic baton plate (PEBP), offers a non-surgical, functional orthodontic solution that improves airway patency and feeding by advancing the tongue base. This paper outlines the semi-digital clinical and technical workflow used for TPP treatment at Tübingen University Hospital. The protocol combines intraoral scanning (IOS), computer-aided design and manufacturing (CAD/CAM), and manual refinement for patient-specific appliance production. Practical steps, modifications for special cases and follow-up procedures are detailed, aiming to support clinical implementation at other centres. Based on the published literature and over three decades of experience, the protocol emphasizes safety, quality control, and interdisciplinary collaboration, with practical guidance provided to support implementation in other centres. The potential of digital workflows for data sharing, training, and multicenter collaboration is highlighted, while challenges such as the need for specialized expertise and technical resources are acknowledged. This guideline provides the first comprehensive and reproducible description of the Tübingen approach and aims to facilitate wider adoption of TPP therapy for infants with RS. Full article

The AESAN (Spanish Agency for Food Safety and Nutrition) Healthy Eating Plate is the current graphic tool from food dietary guidelines for nutritional education followed by experts, based on the Harvard Plate. The aim of this research was to determine whether the AESAN/Harvard Plate graphic tool meets the reference intakes appropriate for the study population. Sixty participants served themselves dishes of six sizes following the AESAN/Harvard graphic tool to create various food combinations. They were analysed for variability, plate size bias, and nutritional adequacy for the adult study population. Next, 63 dishes were made up based on the served foods from the university canteen, using those that fitted into the groups proposed by the AESAN plate graphic tool from dietary guidelines. Their nutritional values were calculated based on technical specifications and/or formulation, as well as for 67,392 possible ingredient combinations. Great variability was found in the quantity of ingredients served to compose the dishes and the dish sizes. Moreover, energy, carbohydrates, fiber, calcium, magnesium, potassium, iron (for women of childbearing age), zinc, and vitamins A, B1, B2, B9, and E did not meet nutritional requirements for lunch in over 50% of the dishes based on the AESAN/Harvard graphic tool. Therefore, a great deal of caution is recommended regarding its use either as a nutritional education tool or in clinical settings. Full article

Electromagnetic separators are widely used in new energy battery purification, resource recycling, and mineral processing. However, coil heating can cause a decline in separation performance and damage to coil insulation. To ensure the stable operation of electromagnetic separators, cooling plates are employed to effectively mitigate temperature rise. To explore a high-performance and economical cooling method, this paper employs CFD finite element analysis for the structural optimization of cooling plates. First, the paper investigates the flow heat characteristics of S-shaped cooling plates. Numerical simulations are performed to analyze the variation of fluid characteristics with different numbers of water channels. Regression equations linking structural parameters to performance indicators are derived, and the optimal channel number and hydraulic diameter are determined. Furthermore, to enhance heat transfer efficiency, an innovative semicircular groove structure is introduced on the cooling plate walls. An optimization strategy based on a genetic algorithm is developed to determine the optimal groove parameters. A simulation shows that the optimized cooling plate reduces coil temperature by 12.63 °C with a decrease of 15.31% compared with the original design. Finally, a prototype with optimized parameters is manufactured after the experimental results of the two test points and the simulation results reveal errors of 0.26% and 0.96%, respectively. The experimental results align well with the simulations, confirming the reliability of the experimental results and the feasibility of the optimization strategy, and providing a reference for future cooling plate designs. Full article

The floating photovoltaic (FPV) power generation technology in water has made up for some of the shortcomings of traditional inland photovoltaics and has developed rapidly in the past decade, enabling truly sustainable solar energy exploitation. Multi-module hinged offshore floating photovoltaics (OFPV) are widely used in the sea. However, how to ensure the survival of OFPVs in extreme natural environments is the biggest challenge for the implementation of the project in the future. The focus of this paper is the hydrodynamic problems that multi-module OFPV structures may encounter under regular waves. The effects of column spacing and heave plates were analyzed for a single FPV platform in order to obtain the ideal single module. Furthermore, the motion responses and inter-module forces of each module are calculated within the overall OFPV system under regular waves to investigate the overall hydrodynamic characteristics. Qualitative and quantitative comparisons between single and multi-modules are made for a deep understanding of this structure to ensure its sustainability. The corresponding conclusions can provide scientific references for multi-module OFPVs and the sustainable utilization of energy. Full article

The mechanisation of sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) planting remains a significant challenge due to the crop’s small, fragile seeds and non-uniform shape, which hinder the effectiveness of standard seeding systems. Crop emergence and production are adversely affected by poor singulation and uneven seed distribution, which are frequently caused by conventional and general-purpose planting equipment. For sesame, consistency in seed distribution and emergence is very important, necessitating careful consideration of agronomic conditions as well as seed properties. This study was conducted as a systematic review following the PRISMA 2020 guidelines to critically evaluate the existing literature on advanced planting methods that prioritise precision, efficiency, and seed protection. A comprehensive search was conducted across Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar for peer-reviewed studies published from 2000 to 2025. Studies focused on the agronomic parameters of sesame, planting technologies, and/or simulation integration, such as Discrete Element Modelling (DEM), were included in this review, and studies unrelated to sesame planting or not available in full text were excluded. The findings from these studies were analysed to examine the interaction between seed metering mechanisms and seed morphology, specifically seed thickness and shape variability. Agronomic parameters such as optimal seed spacing, sowing depth, and population density are analysed to guide the development of effective planting systems. The review also evaluates limitations in existing mechanised approaches while highlighting innovations in precision planting technology. These include optimised seed plate designs, vacuum-assisted metering systems, and simulation tools such as DEM for performance prediction and system refinement. A total of 22 studies were included and analysed using systematic narrative synthesis, grouped into agronomical, technological, and simulation-based themes. The studies were screened for methodological clarity, and reference list screening was performed to reduce reporting bias. In conclusion, the findings of this research support the development of crop-specific planting strategies tailored to meet the unique requirements of sesame production. Full article

Compared with a traditional distribution transformer with silicon steel sheet as the core material, the no-load loss of an amorphous alloy transformer is greatly reduced due to its core using iron-based amorphous metal material, which has been applied in many countries. However, due to the brittleness of its amorphous strip, an amorphous alloy transformer is prone to debris in the process of production, transportation and work. The charge and migration characteristics of these debris will reduce the insulation strength of the transformer oil and endanger the safe operation of the transformer. In this paper, a charge measurement platform of amorphous alloy debris is set up, and the charging characteristics of amorphous alloy core debris under different flow velocities, particle radius and plate electric field strength are obtained. The results show that with an increase in pipeline flow velocity, the charge-to-mass ratio of the debris increases first and then decreases. With an increase in electric field strength, the charge-to-mass ratio of the debris increases; with an increase in the number of debris, the charge-to-mass ratio of the debris decreases; with an increase in debris size, the charge-to-mass ratio of the debris increases. The debris with different charge-to-mass ratios and types obtained from the above experiments are added to the simulation model of an amorphous alloy transformer. The lattice Boltzmann method (LBM) coupled with the discrete element method (DEM) is used to simulate the migration process of metal particles in an amorphous alloy transformer under the combined action of gravity, buoyancy, electric field force and oil flow resistance under electrothermal excitation boundary. The results show that the trajectory of the debris is related to the initial position, electric field strength and oil flow velocity. The LBM–DEM calculation model and charge measurement platform proposed in this paper can provide a reference for studying the charge mechanism and migration characteristics of amorphous alloy core debris in insulating oil. Full article

TY-type intersecting joints are widely used in ultra-high voltage long-span transmission towers. To improve the ultimate bearing capacity of TY-type intersecting joints, this paper proposes a composite externally stiffened intersecting joint based on the TY-type joint, which involves setting vertical gusset plates and vertical stiffeners on the outer surface of the TY-type joint. In this paper, 3 different TY-type intersecting joints are designed, and experimental studies are carried out to explore the failure modes, load–displacement relationships, and plastic development laws of these different TY-type intersecting joints. The results show that stiffening measures can effectively enhance the ultimate bearing capacity and initial stiffness of the joints. Based on the experimental results, the correctness of the numerical simulation is verified. Taking the composite externally stiffened intersecting joint as the base model, 256 stiffened joint models are established, and numerical simulation is used to investigate the influence of different geometric parameters on the ultimate bearing capacity of the joints. The results indicate that: The use of gusset plates and stiffeners can significantly improve the ultimate bearing capacity and overall stiffness of the unstiffened joints; The failure mechanism of the composite stiffened joints is consistent with that of the unstiffened joints, both characterized by buckling in the core of the main pipe; The ultimate bearing capacity of the composite stiffened joints is positively correlated with the diameter ratio of the branch pipe to the main pipe, the thickness ratio of the external stiffening plate, the thickness ratio of the external stiffener, and the height ratio, while it is negatively correlated with the diameter–thickness ratio of the main pipe. The research results on the new-type intersecting joints in this paper can provide a design reference for their practical engineering applications in transmission towers. Full article

Reinforced concrete (RC) non-seismic frames in Middle Eastern multistory buildings often have beam–column connections with discontinuous bottom reinforcement, heightening the risk of progressive collapse if an outer column fails. This study aimed to reduce the potential for progressive collapse when a column is lost by investigating the use of bolted steel plates to enhance the beam–column joints of such frames. In this regard, high-fidelity finite element (FE) analysis was carried out on ten half-scale, two-span, two-story RC frames to simulate the removal of a center column. The numerical analysis accounted for the nonlinear rate-dependent response of steel and concrete, as well as the bond-slip model at steel bars/concrete interaction. The analysis matrix had three unstrengthened specimens that served as references for comparison, in addition to seven assemblies, which were strengthened using bolted steel plates. In the upgraded assemblies, the studied variables were the grade of steel plate (three grades were examined) and the upgrading scheme (three different schemes were investigated). The performance of the specimens was evaluated by comparing their failure patterns and the characteristics of load versus displacement of the middle column during both flexural and catenary action phases. Based on this comparison, the most efficient strengthening method was suggested. Full article

This study proposes a region of interest (ROI) setting method to improve the accuracy and efficiency of fluorescence detection in a compact real-time multiplex fluorescence PCR system. Conventional commercial real-time PCR systems are limited in point-of-care (POC) environments due to their high cost and complex optical structures. To address this issue, we developed a low-cost, compact system using an open-platform camera and a Fresnel lens. However, in such a simply structured system, variations between the wells of the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) plate may affect the accuracy of fluorescence detection. In this study, after capturing images with a CMOS camera, we propose two ROI image processing algorithms. The proposed algorithms reliably extract fluorescence signals and compare ROI deviations caused by variations between wells to determine whether physical correction is necessary. To validate the system, we performed comparative analysis of real-time DNA amplification images and fluorescence dye images collected over multiple periods. Based on evaluations using manual detection as a reference, it was confirmed that even a simple algorithm can achieve stable fluorescence detection while minimizing ROI distortion. This study presents an efficient method for enhancing the accuracy of quantitative fluorescence analysis in small PCR systems and is expected to contribute to improving the performance of point-of-care diagnostics, thereby increasing accessibility to on-site diagnostics in the future. Full article

The article presents a mathematical description of the thermal phenomena occurring both inside and on the surfaces of a homogeneous plate subjected to an external heat flux on one side. Analytical formulae for thermal excitation, with a given duration and constant power, are derived, enabling the determination of temperature increases on both the heated and unheated surfaces of the plate under specific heat transfer conditions to the surroundings. Convective heat transfer, with individual heat transfer coefficients on both sides of the slab, is considered; however, radiative heat loss can also be included. The solution of the problem obtained using two methods is presented: the method of separation of variables (MSV) and the Laplace transform (LT). The advantages and disadvantages of both analytical formulae, as well as the impact of various factors on the accuracy of the solution, are discussed. Among others, the MSV solution works well for a sufficiently long time, whereas the LT solution is better for a sufficiently short time. The theoretical considerations are illustrated with diagrams for several configurations, each representing various heat transfer conditions on both sides of the plate. The presented solution can serve as a starting point for further analysis of more complex geometries or multilayered structures, e.g., in non-destructive testing using active thermography. The developed theoretical model is verified for a determination of the thermal diffusivity of a reference material. The model can be useful for analyzing the method’s sensitivity to various factors occurring during the measurement process, or the method can be adapted to a pulse of known duration and constant power, which is much easier to implement technically than a very short impulse (Dirac) with high energy. Full article

To investigate the strain patterns and shear failure mechanisms of concrete-filled steel tube (CFT) column-end-plate joints during construction, this study designed and fabricated a scaled model of a standard subway station section based on similarity theory. Model tests were conducted under static earth pressure loads, and a finite element model was constructed for comparative analysis. The study focused on the ultimate bearing capacity, failure modes, and force transmission mechanisms of the joint, and optimized the analysis using reinforcement parameters. The results showed significant stress concentrations at the joint corners and core, with shear forces gradually forming annular cracks in the top slab concrete. The bearing system formed by the steel tube column and flange was the primary force transmission mechanism, and even after damage, the steel tube could still effectively restrain the core concrete. Increasing the steel bar diameter and increasing the number of slab reinforcements parallel to the beam significantly improved the joint’s mechanical properties. Improving the material properties of the reinforcement increased the joint’s stress and displacement capacity. This research provides a reference for optimizing the design and construction of slab-column joints in subway stations. Full article

The ablation process of a silica fiber-reinforced polymer (SiFRP) composite under aerodynamic heating and a shear environment was investigated by experiments and numerical study. The flat plate samples were tested in an arc jet wind tunnel under heat flux and pressure ranging from 107 W/cm² at 2.3 kPa to 1100 W/cm² at 84 kPa. The heating surface experiences shear as high as 1900 Pa. The in-depth thermal response and ablating surface temperature of the specimens are measured during ablation. According to the ablation experimental results, a multi-layer ablation model was established that accounts for the effects of carbon deposition, investigating the thermophysical properties of the ablation deposition layer. The accuracy of the proposed ablation model was evaluated by comparing the calculated and experimental surface ablation recession and internal temperature of a silica–phenolic composite under steady-state ablation. Carbon–silica reaction heat is the important endothermic mechanism for silica-reinforced composites. The research provides valuable reference for understanding the ablative thermal protection mechanism of silicon–phenolic composites in a high shear environment. Full article

In advanced economies, most food waste occurs at the downstream stages of the supply chain; within the EU, it has been estimated that 64.57% of food waste occurs at the consumption stage, with about 5.4 million tons (9.45% of the total) being generated in food service. This study aims to contribute to this stream of research by providing evidence about the quantity of food waste produced in Italian primary schools and discussing the results against the evidence available in other EU countries. This research is based on a large-scale study involving 78 primary schools and over 11,000 students for a total number of almost 110,000 monitored meals. The results show that the amount of food not consumed at lunch is 21.7% of the food prepared every day. Plate waste accounts for almost 90 g/day per capita and the total amount of wasted food, including unserved food, accounts for 117 g/day per capita. To our knowledge, this study represents the largest sample size monitored in Italy under the framework of the EC Delegated Decision (EU) 2019/1597 on food waste measurement. Given its scale and adherence to the EU’s standardized methodology, this dataset should serve as the reference data for Italy reported to Eurostat, as it is based on direct measurements rather than estimates or secondary data sources. This underscores the importance of systematic, comparable data collection for tracking progress on food waste reduction at both national and European levels. Full article

With the continuous development and innovation of thermal management technology for lithium-ion batteries, the advantages of direct immersion liquid cooling technology have become increasingly prominent. However, at present, there is relatively little research on immersion liquid cooling systems, and current research is still mainly focused on small-capacity battery systems. Therefore, taking a large-capacity battery pack as the research object, a new type of single-phase immersion liquid cooling system was designed. The battery pack has a charge and discharge rate of 1C, consists of 52 cells, and has a total capacity of 52.249 kWh. It was compared with traditional liquid cooling and static immersion liquid cooling. Then, the effects of the aperture of the flow distributor, the inlet flow rate of the cooling liquid, and the type of cooling liquid on the cooling performance of the dynamic immersion battery pack were discussed. The holes on the flow distribution plate are primarily designed to facilitate a relatively uniform distribution of incoming liquid flow. Our research found that compared with traditional liquid cooling and static immersion liquid cooling, the overall cooling performance of the dynamic immersion cooling system was significantly improved, with the maximum temperature T_max decreasing by 7.8 °C and 6.6 °C, the maximum temperature difference ΔT_max of the entire pack decreasing by 5.5 °C and 5.8 °C, and the maximum temperature difference U-DΔT_max between the top and bottom surfaces of the battery pack decreasing by 10.1 °C and 8.96 °C. An appropriate aperture had a positive impact on the cooling effect of the battery pack, with the best effect at a aperture of 4 mm. T_max and ΔT_max gradually decreased with an increase in the flow rate of the cooling liquid, with T_max decreasing from 42.3 °C to 31 °C and ΔT_max decreasing from 14.8 °C to 7.9 °C, but the rate of the temperature decrease gradually decreased. Deionized water in the cooling liquid had the best cooling effect, while ethyl silicone oil had the worst cooling effect. The novel single-phase immersion cooling system developed in this study serves as a valuable reference for the design of immersion liquid cooling systems in large-capacity battery packs, contributing to enhanced temperature uniformity and improved system safety. Full article

We study the relationship between the physical surface roughness of the glossy surfaces of dielectric objects and the roughness parameter in image rendering. The former refers to a measure of the microscopic surface structure of a real object’s surface. The latter is a model parameter used to produce the realistic appearance of objects. The target dielectric objects to analyze the surface roughness are handcrafted lacquer plates with controlled surface glossiness, as well as several plastics and lacquer products from everyday life. We first define the physical surface roughness as the standard deviation of the surface normal, and provide the computational procedure. We use a laser scanning system to obtain the precise surface height information at tiny flat areas of a surface. Next, a method is developed for estimating the surface roughness parameter based on images taken of the surface with a camera. With a simple setup for observing a glossy flat surface, we estimate the roughness parameter by fitting the Beckmann function to the image intensity distribution in the observed HDR image using the least squares method. A linear relationship is then found between the measurement-based surface roughness and image-based surface roughness. We present applications to glossy objects with curved surfaces. Full article