Micromixers play a crucial role within microfluidic devices to facilitate diffusion mixing. The present study examines the impact of five distinct design parameters of a T-shaped serpentine micromixer namely mixing area shape, micromixer area, channel width, channel spacing, and channel orientation - on its mixing efficiency and the pressure drop. Using the Taguchi method of design of experiments (DoE), an orthogonal array (OA) of 27 was constructed, and each experiment was numerically modelled and solved using a computational fluid dynamics (CFD) solver. Signal-to-noise ratio analysis and analysis of variance (ANOVA) were conducted to quantify the impact of each individual parameter. Grey relational analysis (GRA) was employed to optimise the micromixer geometry such that a higher mixing performance is achieved at a lower pressure drop. The optimal micromixer fabricated from Polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) utilising soft lithography techniques was subjected to experimental validation, showcasing a deviation of 10% from the numerical results.

The Indian automotive industry is striving towards more safe and durable vehicles. A need was felt to study the effect of changes in axle static loads on fatigue life of the axle components. Also, there was a need to develop generic test method, as there are no test standards or generic methods available in public domain for fatigue testing of commercial vehicle axles. The study was carried out to check direct effect of change in axle loads on various connections on axle, effect of suspension configuration and force distribution, Vehicle dynamics, etc.In this paper, an India specific generic load spectra was evaluated for accelerated laboratory validation. Paper discusses the methodology as; study of heavy commercial vehicle systems, road load data collection on identified test vehicles w.r.t. test matrix finalized, India specific test loads and load spectra development, normalization of axle load spectra w.r.t to static axle weights and arriving at test guidelines. Comprehensive experiments and load measurements were carried out on test vehicles to arrive at a generic test methodology and test cycles. The derived test specifications were correlated with current industry practices and the actual in-lab experiments were conducted.

Micro heat sinks (MHS) are becoming integral part of microelectronics nowadays because of their ability to cool the tiny components which generate high heat flux. In this study, an electronic chip with a high heat flux of 100 W/cm2 is cooled with the help of an MHS device which has repetitive patterns of obstacles of various shapes in the flow of cooling medium. Numerical modelling of all MHSs were performed using a computational fluid dynamics (CFD) solver and the pattern, which gives better thermohydraulic performance, was selected for optimization. A parametric study was performed with various obstacle sizes, distances between obstacles, and flow rates of cooling medium for maximum temperature of chip and pressure drop. Regression analysis was carried out with response surface method (RSM) between these three design variables and two objective functions, viz. thermal resistance (Rth) and pumping power (Pp). A multi-objective optimization of the MHS was performed using genetic algorithm (GA) and Pareto-optimal solutions were obtained. An optimal design was fabricated and the cooling experiment was carried out under optimal flow conditions. The repetitive pattern of obstacles increases the conjugate heat transfer area and helps in improving thermal performance.

The influence of gravity plays a crucial role in micropumps' fluid dynamics. Gravitational forces have an intricate effect on the fluid flow of the micropump. Understanding gravity's influence on micropump fluid dynamics is critical for improving the fine design features and operational efficacy of the microscale pumping systems. This study conducted thorough a numerical analysis on the Single Inlet Double Outlet Diaphragm (SIDOD) micropump and the Double Inlet Single Outlet Diaphragm (DISOD) micropump to determine how gravity influences the performance. In this research, the optimal frequency is identified as 3 Hz. At this frequency, the SIDOD flow rate increases from 313 mu l min-1 without gravity to 327.77 mu l min-1 with gravity, marking an increase of 4.77%. Similarly, the DISOD flow rate rises from 177.78 mu l min-1 without gravity to 184 mu l min-1 with gravity, reflecting an approximate 3.56% increase. A comprehensive understanding of gravity impact is crucial for aerospace applications, where micropumps may operate under fluctuating gravitational conditions. The potential applications of micropumps in medical devices, particularly drug delivery systems, experience gravitational variations.

Background Syndesmotic injury can result in significant instability and long-term complications if not treated correctly. Traditional management has involved transyndesmotic screw fixation, but a newer technique, the tight rope system, has been developed to mitigate some of the issues related to screw fixation, such as hardware discomfort and the necessity for hardware removal. Methods In this randomized, prospective study, 32 patients with ankle injuries requiring syndesmotic fixation were equally divided into two groups: one receiving the tight rope system (n=16) and the other undergoing screw fixation (n=16). The patients were monitored for six months following surgery. The study measured outcomes such as time to weight-bearing, range of motion, pain levels, functional outcomes using the American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society (AOFAS) Ankle-Hindfoot Scale, and complication rates. Results Both groups had comparable demographic and injury profiles. The tight rope group achieved weight-bearing significantly earlier (6.19 ± 0.9 weeks vs. 7.13 ± 0.95 weeks, p=0.008) and had better functional outcomes at six months (87.5% excellent AOFAS scores vs. 37.5%, p=0.003) compared to the screw fixation group. The range of motion and pain scores were similar between the groups. Different complications were observed: screw breakage was more common in the screw fixation group, while the tight rope group experienced more laxity. Overall complication rates were similar. Conclusion Both techniques were effective in reducing pain and maintaining range of motion. However, the tight rope system allowed for earlier weight-bearing and better functional outcomes at six months. These results indicate that the tight rope system may provide certain advantages in treating syndesmotic injuries, although the choice of technique should be tailored to the specific injury and patient factors.

Charcot neuroarthropathy (CN) is a chronic progressive debilitating disease affecting joints, bone and soft tissue of an insensate limb, usually seen in patients with diabetes. CN of the great toe is rare or it may be associated with CN of other joints. Only a few cases have been reported on the CN of the great toe. Stabilization and offloading is the primary aim of the treatment of CN. The present case report highlights the presentation, diagnosis and management of CN of the great toe. A 56-year-old male patient with diabetes presented to our outpatient department with post-traumatic swelling of the great toe with blackish discoloration and scanty, purulent discharging sinus. Based on the clinical and radiological findings, it was diagnosed to be the CN of the great toe, which was stabilized with a Kirschner wire. Clinical improvement and new bone formation were seen and the great toe was stabilized in acceptable alignment. Diagnosing CN of the great toe is challenging and needs both clinical and radiological evaluation. Stabilization with a single Kirschner wire is a simple, low-cost procedure, which can be done under a digital block in a minor operation theatre. Immediate mobilization and weight-bearing are allowed with good radiological and functional outcomes.

Background Lignin and xylan are important determinants of cell wall structure and lignocellulosic biomass digestibility. Genetic manipulations that individually modify either lignin or xylan structure improve polysaccharide digestibility. However, the effects of their simultaneous modifications have not been explored in a similar context. Here, both individual and combinatorial modification in xylan and lignin was studied by analysing the effect on plant cell wall properties, biotic stress responses and integrity sensing. Results Arabidopsis plant co-harbouring mutation in FERULATE 5-HYDROXYLASE (F5H) and overexpressing Aspergillus niger acetyl xylan esterase (35S:AnAXE1) were generated and displayed normal growth attributes with intact xylem architecture. This fah1-2/35S:AnAXE1 cross was named as hyper G lignin and hypoacetylated (HrGHypAc) line. The HrGHypAc plants showed increased crystalline cellulose content with enhanced digestibility after chemical and enzymatic pre-treatment. Moreover, both parents and HrGHypAc without and after pre-treating with glucuronyl esterase and alpha glucuronidase exhibited an increase in xylose release after xylanase digestion as compared to wild type. The de-pectinated fraction in HrGHypAc displayed elevated levels of xylan and cellulose. Furthermore, the transcriptomic analysis revealed differential expression in cell wall biosynthetic, transcription factors and wall-associated kinases genes implying the role of lignin and xylan modification on cellular regulatory processes. Conclusions Simultaneous modification in xylan and lignin enhances cellulose content with improved saccharification efficiency. These modifications loosen cell wall complexity and hence resulted in enhanced xylose and xylobiose release with or without pretreatment after xylanase digestion in both parent and HrGHypAc. This study also revealed that the disruption of xylan and lignin structure is possible without compromising either growth and development or defense responses against Pseudomonas syringae infection.

Microfluidic systems are crucial in various fields including biological fluid handling and microelectronic cooling. Micropumps play a vital role in microfluidics. Valveless micropumps are the preferred choice in microfluidics because of their ability to minimize the risk of clogging and gently handle biological materials. In this comprehensive Four-Flap Valveless Micropump (FFVM) simulation, the fluid flow and associated deformation in the valveless micropump are analyzed. The oscillatory fluid motion generated by a straightforward reciprocating pumping mechanism is transformed into a unidirectional net flow by the micropump. This pump eliminates the need for intricate actuation mechanisms found in valve-based pumps while offering precise direction control. The input is given in terms of the Reynolds number or inflow velocity. In this study, the Reynolds numbers were changed from 16 to 50, which resulted in a positive correlation with the net flow rates, yielding a maximum net flow rate of 20.81 mu l min-1 at a Reynolds number of 50. The influence of the average flow velocity is evident, with a peak net flow rate of 29.16 mu l min-1 at 50 cm s-1. The FFVM showcases adaptability by delivering fluid within microfluidic pathways, holding promising applications in precision drug delivery systems.

Rotary beams play a significant role in engineering structures such as turbine blades, aircraft propellers and robotic manipulators. In this paper we have studied the analytical and numerical analysis of composite beam in dynamic condition. Centrifugal Force acts on the beam while rotating it at different RPM. By using this concept the analytical study is carried out for this rotating beam in which centrifugal forces are calculated for different RPM. Due to this force stress is induced in the beam at different locations. Also the elongation of the beam will take place in rotating condition. The analytical study has been carried out for measurement of stresses and elongation of beam. For the measurement of elongation of beam we have used the Finite Element Method (FEM). The analysis of beam is also carried out using COMSOL. In this software, the test specimens were modeled in accordance to analytical specimens. The numerical study is concerned with stresses induced and elongation of rotating composite beams for different rpm. This study is important to understand the effect of RPM on Stress, Elongation. After this study we have observed that there is no much difference between in the both analysis. The study of beam has been carried out at various end conditions of the beam.

Abstract Microfluidic devices/systems, including Micro-Total-Analysis-System (µTAS), Point of Care Testing (POCT) and Lab-On-a-Chip (LOC) are used in many chemical and biological assays applications. Among the vital tasks that these microfluidic devices must achieve essentially include a high degree of mixing and accordingly, micromixers are being used for the same purpose. The design depends on the yield required in particular application. In the proposed study, the four kinds of heart-shaped micromixers with different obstacles have been studied through simulations. The influence of the shape and size of different obstacles viz., circular shape, diamond shape, teardrop shape, and heart shape obstacles on the performance characteristics has been studied. The performance characteristics namely, the mixing index and pressure drop have been used. In accordance with the study, a heart-shaped micromixer with heart shape obstacles (HSM-HSO) has come out to be the most efficient micromixer due to the significant chaotic convection effect. The heart-shaped micromixer with heart shape obstacles (HSM-HSO) of size 0.350 µm × 0.350 µm has shown better performance for a wider range of Reynolds number (Re), i.e., mixing index of Re > 0.99, for Re of 0.1 and Re in the range of 15–45.

Surgical resection is the gold standard for an aggressive variant of central giant cell granuloma (CGCG) which causes permanent disfigurement, especially in young individuals. Therefore, the conservative line of treatment should be tried first. Jacoway and colleagues proposed that the intralesional administration of corticosteroids acts on the giant cells that have osteoclasts receptors present on their surface and thus, corticosteroids induce apoptosis, causing remission of the lesion. An 11-year girl reported non-tender bony swelling in the left mandibular region for 3 months. CBCT revealed a large lytic lesion from teeth 33 to 37 measuring about 4 cm × 4 cm approximately. A biopsy was done, which diagnosed the lesion as central giant cell granuloma. 10 mg/ml of triamcinolone acetonide intralesional injection per cm of the lesion was injected. The protocol of initially giving intralesional corticosteroid injections can be used as a first treatment option for the management of CGCG rather than going for an initial aggressive surgical approach.

In this research, the Taguchi approach has been used to identify the crucial factors responsible for the failure of a reinforced concrete bridge pier in India. The Taguchi method’s orthogonal array L 27 examines the effect of material dynamic response factors on the pier damage level. According to Taguchi’s design of experiments, five input criteria relating to reinforced concrete bridge materials properties have been chosen as controllable factors: concrete strength, rebar strength, damping ratio, isolator pier stiffness, and abutment stiffness. The nonlinear time history approach uses Midas- Civil for a 3-D finite element model of an existing bridge at Sangli, India. The research included bridge pier collapse as a performance criterion. The analysis of variance revealed that stiffness of abutment, stiffness of pier, and damping ratio for pier deck significantly impacted the pier collapse performance. The result shows that concrete strength and damping ratio are the essential parameters, with 42% and 41% of the total contribution to pier displacement, respectively. Therefore, it is concluded that the most critical material factors for pier collapse are abutment stiffness and pier stiffness, with a contribution of 53 % and 23%, respectively.

Microfluidics has enabled researchers to explore the physics of fluid in the regions of micro in size. Use of Machine Learning techniques in microfluidics to predict flow behavior and reduce time is an unexplored area. A Y-shaped micromixer was designed and its five design variables were identified. A sample size was designed by general factorial method and the simulation experiments were conducted using a CFD solver. The evaluation criteria was mixing index at the outlet of Y-shaped micromixer. Based on results of 1024 simulations, an Artificial Neural Network (ANN) metamodel was developed. Finally the metamodel was validated against the simulation results for the values of design variables outside the full factorial sample. The results show that the metamodel shows agreement with the simulation results with 0.6

Check/flap and fixed geometry or diffuser/nozzle valves are being used in micropump applications to direct the flow in the preferred direction. Out of these two types, the check valves are preferred due their advantages with respect to the flow rate and the pressure. The Fluid Structure Interaction (FSI) module was employed to simulate the check valve. The effect of inlet pressure on the flap valve displacement and flow rate was studied. The range of inlet pressure considered was 5–40 mbar. The study results reveal that the displacement of the flap valve and flow rate increase with increase in the inlet pressure.

Background A combined reconstruction of chronic deltoid and spring ligament insufficiency is uncommon. Our study aims to share our experience in treating post-traumatic, chronic deltoid, and spring ligament insufficiency using the "quadrangular construct" technique. Material and methods Five patients who had post-traumatic combined deltoid and spring ligament insufficiency were included in the study. All patients reported a "giving-way" sensation. Preoperatively, each patient underwent weight -bearing radiographs of the ankle and foot. The talo-first metatarsal angle and hindfoot alignment angle were noted. The superficial deltoid ligament was repaired using a suture anchor augmented with Internal BraceTM (Arthrex, Naples, USA) FiberTape (R) to form a quadrangular construct that anatomically mimics various components of the deltoid-spring ligament complex. Due to the associated excessive heel valgus, three patients also underwent medial displacement calcaneum osteotomy. Additionally, one patient required lateral ligament repair, and another patient required syndesmotic stabilization. The American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) hindfoot score was used to evaluate preoperative and postoperative ankle function. Results All five patients were followed up for a mean of 20 months (range: 12-24 months). The mean preoperative talo-first metatarsal angle improved from 8.46 degrees to 4.84 degrees. The preoperative mean hindfoot alignment angle was reduced from 10.9 to 5.76 degrees postoperatively. One patient had irritation due to the anchor, which needed removal after one year. Postoperatively, no patients re-experienced the feeling of "giving way". The AOFAS scores postoperatively showed two patients as excellent, two as good, and one as fair. All the patients returned to their pre-injury work. Conclusion We have developed a technique for combined deltoid and spring ligament reconstruction using a quadrangular construct. This technique helps to restore anatomical stability, is safe, easily reproducible, and has shown positive short-term results in follow-up. The level of evidence is one of the methods used to categorize the quality and reliability of research, and our study falls under the category of level IV evidence.

Microfluidic devices in the miniaturized chip format are famous for performing laboratory functions and are used in a wide array of biomedical applications such as rapid clinical diagnosis, forensic science, flow cytometry, and analysis of blood chemistry, protein and DNA. In many biochemical applications studies of CGG helps to get the trends of cells and molecules in different samples such as extracting the maximum information of tumour cells in response to several drugs varying in concentration so as to obtain the minimal sample which is helpful for basic biomedical research in cancer treatment. This paper analyses concentration gradient generators (CGGs) of various shapes having two inlets and five outlets for water and ethanol fluids. The study resulted that the square-shaped CGG performed better than the other designs. It also demonstrates the no significant effect of Reynold number variation on the concentration gradient for Straight CGG.

Abstract The study of flow and mixing dynamics for conventional micromixers as well as micromixers with split and recombine (SAR) units has been carried out using laminar and transport diluted physics modules. Initially, a pilot numerical analysis was done for the basic Y-shaped curved, rectangular and triangular serpentine micromixers. Later, SAR units have been added to these basic designs and the effect of SAR units on the performance characteristics viz., mixing index, pressure drop, performance index and pumping power has been studied. In-depth qualitative analysis was also carried out to visualize the flow and mixing dynamics for the Reynolds number in the range from 0.1–50. The study results revealed that the square shaped chambers and circular obstacle based rectangular serpentine micromixer (SCCO-RSM) demonstrated better performance as compared to the other designs. The proposed micromixer is the better candidate for microfluidics applications such as Lab-On-a-Chip (LOC), Micro-Total-Analysis-Systems (µTAS) and Point of Care Testing (POCT), etc.