bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Systematic Review on the Risk of Overheating in Passive Houses
Authors: Farrokhirad Ensiyeh , Gao Yun , Pitts Adrian , Chen Guo
Published: August 2024

The rise in energy-efficient building strategies, driven by the intensifying energy crisis, has encouraged the development of the passive house (PH) approach. However, existing research highlights a potential downside, the perception of the overheating risk in hot periods, particularly when design and construction methods fail to incorporate adequate mitigation strategies. This study examines the pressing necessity of addressing overheating risks in PHs through a systematic review. The aim is to identify key factors reported as contributing to overheating, to evaluate recommended solutions across diverse global regions, and to identify methods to reduce the risk. This review indicates that PHs are considered at risk of overheating in the hot periods of the year across many climatic regions, exacerbated by the impacts of climate change. Architectural features, climate conditions, inhabitants’ behaviors, and perceptions of the quality of indoor spaces are important factors affecting PH overheating and should be considered at the design stage. It is concluded that the urban context, building envelope characteristics, and their impacts require greater attention. Based on the knowledge gaps identified, green walls are proposed as a nature-based solution with good potential for mitigating overheating in PHs. More integrated consideration of all factors and solutions can minimize current and future risks.
Intelligent Checking Method for Construction Schemes via Fusion of Knowledge Graph and Large Language Models
Authors: Li Hao , Yang Rongzheng , Xu Shuangshuang , Xiao Yao , Zhao Hongyu
Published: August 2024

In the construction industry, the professional evaluation of construction schemes represents a crucial link in ensuring the safety, quality and economic efficiency of the construction process. However, due to the large number and diversity of construction schemes, traditional expert review methods are limited in terms of timeliness and comprehensiveness. This leads to an increasingly urgent requirement for intelligent check of construction schemes. This paper proposes an intelligent compliance checking method for construction schemes that integrates knowledge graphs and large language model (LLM). Firstly, a method for constructing a multi-dimensional, multi-granular knowledge graph for construction standards is introduced, which serves as the foundation for domain-specific knowledge support to the LLM. Subsequently, a parsing module based on text classification and entity extraction models is proposed to automatically parse construction schemes and construct pathways for querying the knowledge graph of construction standards. Finally, an LLM is leveraged to achieve an intelligent compliance check. The experimental results demonstrate that the proposed method can effectively integrate domain knowledge to guide the LLM in checking construction schemes, with an accuracy rate of up to 72%. Concurrently, the well-designed prompt template and the comprehensiveness of the knowledge graph facilitate the stimulation of the LLM’s reasoning ability. This work contributes to exploring the application of LLMs and knowledge graphs in the vertical domain of text compliance checking. Future work will focus on optimizing the integration of LLMs and domain knowledge to further improve the accuracy and practicality of the intelligent checking system.
Prior Advanced Care Planning and Outcomes of Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation in the Emergency Department of a Comprehensive Cancer Center
Authors: Wechsler Adriana H. , Sandoval Marcelo , Viets-Upchurch Jayne , Cruz Carreras Maria , Page Valda D. , Elsayem Ahmed , Qdaisat Aiham , Yeung Sai-Ching J.
Published: August 2024

Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) outcomes vary for patients with cancer. Here, we characterized cancer patients who underwent CPR in the emergency department (ED), their outcomes, and the effects of advanced care planning (ACP). The hospital databases and electronic medical records of cancer patients at a comprehensive cancer center who underwent CPR in the ED from 6 March 2016 to 31 December 2022 were reviewed for patient characteristics, return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC), conversion to do-not-resuscitate (DNR) status afterward, hospital and intensive care unit (ICU) length of stay, mortality, cost of hospitalization, and prior GOC discussions. CPR occurred in 0.05% of all ED visits. Of the 100 included patients, 67 patients achieved ROSC, with 15% surviving to hospital discharge. The median survival was 26 h, and the 30-day mortality rate was 89%. Patients with and without prior ACP had no significant differences in demographics, metastatic involvement, achievement of ROSC, or in-hospital mortality, but patients with ACP were more likely to change their code status to DNR and had shorter stays in the ICU or hospital. In conclusion, few cancer patients undergo CPR in the ED. Whether this results from an increase in terminally ill patients choosing DNR status requires further study. ACP was associated with increased conversion to DNR after resuscitation and decreased hospital or ICU stays without an increase in overall mortality.
Activation of VGLL4 Suppresses Cardiomyocyte Maturational Hypertrophic Growth
Authors: Farley Aaron , Gao Yunan , Sun Yan , Zohrabian Sylvia , Pu William T. , Lin Zhiqiang
Published: August 2024

From birth to adulthood, the mammalian heart grows primarily through increasing cardiomyocyte (CM) size, which is known as maturational hypertrophic growth. The Hippo-YAP signaling pathway is well known for regulating heart development and regeneration, but its roles in CM maturational hypertrophy have not been clearly addressed. Vestigial-like 4 (VGLL4) is a crucial component of the Hippo-YAP pathway, and it functions as a suppressor of YAP/TAZ, the terminal transcriptional effectors of this signaling pathway. To develop an in vitro model for studying CM maturational hypertrophy, we compared the biological effects of T3 (triiodothyronine), Dex (dexamethasone), and T3/Dex in cultured neonatal rat ventricular myocytes (NRVMs). The T3/Dex combination treatment stimulated greater maturational hypertrophy than either the T3 or Dex single treatment. Using T3/Dex treatment of NRVMs as an in vitro model, we found that activation of VGLL4 suppressed CM maturational hypertrophy. In the postnatal heart, activation of VGLL4 suppressed heart growth, impaired heart function, and decreased CM size. On the molecular level, activation of VGLL4 inhibited the PI3K-AKT pathway, and disrupting VGLL4 and TEAD interaction abolished this inhibition. In conclusion, our data suggest that VGLL4 suppresses CM maturational hypertrophy by inhibiting the YAP/TAZ-TEAD complex and its downstream activation of the PI3K-AKT pathway.
The Impact of Atmospheric Temperature Variations on Glycaemic Patterns in Children and Young Adults with Type 1 Diabetes
Authors: Chiacchiaretta Piero , Tumini Stefano , Mascitelli Alessandra , Sacrini Lorenza , Saltarelli Maria Alessandra , Carabotta Maura , Osmelli Jacopo , Di Carlo Piero , Aruffo Eleonora
Published: August 2024

Seasonal variations in glycaemic patterns in children and young adults affected by type 1 diabetes are currently poorly studied. However, the spread of Flash Glucose Monitoring (FGM) and continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) systems and of dedicated platforms for the synchronization and conservation of CGM reports allows an efficient approach to the comprehension of these phenomena. Moreover, the impact that environmental parameters may have on glycaemic control takes on clinical relevance, implying a need to properly educate patients and their families. In this context, it can be investigated how blood glucose patterns in diabetic patients may have a link to outdoor temperatures. Therefore, in this study, the relationship between outdoor temperatures and glucose levels in diabetic patients, aged between 4 and 21 years old, has been analysed. For a one-year period (Autumn 2022–Summer 2023), seasonal variations in their CGM metrics (i.e., time in range (TIR), Time Above Range (TAR), Time Below Range (TBR), and coefficient of variation (CV)) were analysed with respect to atmospheric temperature. The results highlight a negative correlation between glucose in diabetic patients and temperature patterns (R value computed considering data for the entire year; Ry = −0.49), behaviour which is strongly confirmed by the analysis focused on the July 2023 heatwave (R = −0.67), which shows that during heatwave events, the anticorrelation is accentuated. The diurnal analysis shows how glucose levels fluctuate throughout the day, potentially correlating with atmospheric diurnal temperature changes in addition to the standard trend. Data captured during the July 2023 heatwave (17–21 July 2023) highlight pronounced deviations from the long-term average, signalling the rapid effects of extreme temperatures on glucose regulation. Our findings underscore the need to integrate meteorological parameters into diabetes management and clinical trial designs. These results suggest that structured diabetes self-management education of patients and their families should include adequate warnings about the effects of atmospheric temperature variations on the risk of hypoglycaemia and about the negative effects of excessive therapeutic inertia in the adjustment of insulin doses.
Innovative Paper Coatings: Regenerative Superhydrophobicity through Self-Structuring Aqueous Wax-Polymer Dispersions
Authors: Cordt Cynthia , Daeg Jennifer , Elle Oliver , Geissler Andreas , Biesalski Markus
Published: August 2024

For a wide range of applications, paper materials require effective protection against the destructive effect of water, which is most effectively realized by superhydrophobic coatings. In recent years, a considerable amount of scientific research has been carried out in this area, focusing particularly on biogenic resources. With this contribution, we go one step further and examine how biogenic materials can be transferred into aqueous dispersions and coated onto paper via existing technologies. With this paper coating, based on a hydrophobic cellulose derivative in combination with a structurally similar wax, thermally regenerable flower-like surface morphologies are obtained via self-assembly, where the hydrophobic cellulose polymer acts as a structural template for the co-crystallization of the wax component. Such hydrophobic structures in the low micrometer range ensure perfectly water-repellent paper surfaces with contact angles > 150° starting from coating weights of 5 g/m2. The dispersion can be successfully applied to a variety of commercially available paper substrates, whereby the effects of different roughness, porosity, and hydrophobicity were investigated. In this context, a certain roughness of the base paper (Sa ~ 1.5–3 µm) was found to be beneficial for achieving the highest possible contact angles. Furthermore, the approach proved to be paper process-compatible, recyclable, and regenerable, whereby the processing temperatures allow the coating properties to be thermally generated in situ. With this work, we demonstrate how biogenic waxes are very well suited for superhydrophobic, regenerative coatings and, importantly, how they can be applied from aqueous coatings, enabling simple transfer into the paper industry.
Adaptive Load Balancing Approach to Mitigate Network Congestion in VANETS
Authors: Haider Syed Ehsan , Khan Muhammad Faizan , Saeed Yousaf
Published: August 2024

Load balancing to alleviate network congestion remains a critical challenge in Vehicular Ad Hoc Networks (VANETs). During route and response scheduling, road side units (RSUs) risk being overloaded beyond their calculated capacity. Despite recent advancements like RSU-based load transfer, NP-Hard hierarchical geography routing, RSU-based medium access control (MAC) schemes, simplified clustering, and network activity control, a significant gap persists in employing a load-balancing server for effective traffic management. We propose a server-based network congestion handling mechanism (SBNC) in VANETs to bridge this gap. Our approach clusters RSUs within specified ranges and incorporates dedicated load balancing and network scheduler RSUs to manage route selection and request–response scheduling, thereby balancing RSU loads. We introduce three key algorithms: optimal placement of dedicated RSUs, a scheduling policy for packets/data/requests/responses, and a congestion control algorithm for load balancing. Using the VanetMobiSim library of Network Simulator-2 (NS-2), we evaluate our approach based on residual energy consumption, end-to-end delay, packet delivery ratio (PDR), and control packet overhead. Results indicate substantial improvements in load balancing through our proposed server-based approach.
Atomistic Simulation Studies of Na4SiO4
Authors: Shanika Mallikage Shalani , Abiman Poobalasingam , Iyngaran Poobalasuntharam , Kuganathan Navaratnarajah
Published: August 2024

Tetrasodium silicate (Na4SiO4) has emerged as a promising candidate for battery applications due to its favorable ionic transport properties. Atomic-scale simulations employing classical pair potentials have elucidated the defect mechanisms and ion migration dynamics in Na4SiO4. The Na Frenkel defect, characterized by the creation of a Na vacancy and an interstitial Na⁺ ion, is identified as the most energetically favorable defect process, facilitating efficient vacancy-assisted Na⁺ ion migration. This process results in three-dimensional ion diffusion with a low activation energy of 0.55 eV, indicating rapid ion movement within the material. Among monovalent dopants (Li⁺, K⁺, and Rb⁺), K⁺ was found to be the most advantageous for substitution on the Na site. For trivalent doping, Al is the most favorable on the Si site, generating additional Na⁺ ions and potentially enhancing ionic conductivity. Ge was identified as a promising isovalent dopant for the Si site. These theoretical findings suggest that Na4SiO4 could offer high ionic conductivity and stability when optimized through appropriate doping. Experimental validation of these predictions could lead to the development of advanced battery materials with improved performance and durability.
Mitochondrial Genome Diversity of Schistura McClelland, 1838 (Teleostei, Nemacheilidae)
Authors: Peng Xiaohuang , Xu Baohong , Chen Changjun , Xiao Tiaoyi , Su Jianming
Published: August 2024

The inconsistency between traditional morphological taxonomy and molecular phylogenetic data is a major issue that puzzles the study of fish classification and evolution. Although mitochondrial genes are commonly used in phylogenetic analyses to compare fish species, the mitochondrial evolution and diversity of Schistura are still not well understood. To better understand the evolution of Schistura, we sequenced the mitochondrial genome of Schistura fasciolata and compared it with other species of Schistura. A 16,588 bp circular mitochondrial genome of S. fasciolata was obtained and it contains 13 protein-coding, 22 transfer RNA, and two ribosomal RNA genes, and a non-coding control region. The gene arrangement in the mitochondrial genomes of all Schistura species was consistent. However, we also found that S. fasciolata was not monophyletic. Although mitochondrial genes can be effectively used for Schistura species identification, they may not be suitable for inferring the evolutionary process of Schistura species. These results provide support for the use of mitochondrial genes in identifying Schistura species, and also serve as a warning against mistakenly using them to evaluate the evolution process of Schistura species.
Experimental Fitting of Efficiency Hill Chart for Kaplan Hydraulic Turbine
Authors: Capata Roberto , Calabria Alfonso , Baralis Gian Marco , Piras Giuseppe
Published: August 2024

The development of hydroelectric technology and much of the “knowledge” on hydraulic phenomena derive from scale modeling and “bench” tests to improve machinery efficiency. The result of these experimental tests is mapping the so-called “hill chart”, representing the “DNA” of a turbine model. Identifying the efficiency values as a function of the specific parameters of the flow and energy coefficient (which both identify the operating point) allows us to represent the complete behavior of a turbine in hydraulic similarity with the original model developed in the laboratory. The present work carries out a “reverse engineering” operation that leads to the definition of “an innovative research model” that is relatively simple to use in every field. Thus, from the experimental survey of the degree of efficiency of several prototypes of machines deriving from the same starting model, the hill chart of the hydraulic profile used is reconstructed. The “mapping” of all the characteristic quantities of the machine, together with the physical parameters of the regulating organs of a four-blade Kaplan turbine model, also made it possible to complete the process, allowing to identify not only the iso-efficiency regions but also the curves relating to the trend of the angle of the impeller blades, the specific opening of the distributor, and the identification of critical areas of cavitation. The development of the hill chart was made possible by investigating the behavior of 33 actual prototypes and 46 characteristic curves derived from the same reference model based on practical experiments for finding the optimal blade distributor “setup curve”. To complete this, theoretical characteristic curves of “not physically realized” prototypes were also mapped, allowing us to complete the regions comprising the diagram. The study of the unified hill charts found in previous documentation of the most famous manufacturers was of great help. Finally, the validation of the “proposed procedure” was obtained through the experimental survey of the actual efficiency of the new prototype based on the theoretical values defined in the design phase on the chart obtained with the method described.
Insights and Considerations in Development and Performance Evaluation of Generative Adversarial Networks (GANs): What Radiologists Need to Know
Authors: Yoon Jeong Taek , Lee Kyung Mi , Oh Jang-Hoon , Kim Hyug-Gi , Jeong Ji Won
Published: August 2024

The rapid development of deep learning in medical imaging has significantly enhanced the capabilities of artificial intelligence while simultaneously introducing challenges, including the need for vast amounts of training data and the labor-intensive tasks of labeling and segmentation. Generative adversarial networks (GANs) have emerged as a solution, offering synthetic image generation for data augmentation and streamlining medical image processing tasks through models such as cGAN, CycleGAN, and StyleGAN. These innovations not only improve the efficiency of image augmentation, reconstruction, and segmentation, but also pave the way for unsupervised anomaly detection, markedly reducing the reliance on labeled datasets. Our investigation into GANs in medical imaging addresses their varied architectures, the considerations for selecting appropriate GAN models, and the nuances of model training and performance evaluation. This paper aims to provide radiologists who are new to GAN technology with a thorough understanding, guiding them through the practical application and evaluation of GANs in brain imaging with two illustrative examples using CycleGAN and pixel2style2pixel (pSp)-combined StyleGAN. It offers a comprehensive exploration of the transformative potential of GANs in medical imaging research. Ultimately, this paper strives to equip radiologists with the knowledge to effectively utilize GANs, encouraging further research and application within the field.
Early Alzheimer’s Disease Detection: A Review of Machine Learning Techniques for Forecasting Transition from Mild Cognitive Impairment
Authors: Singh Soraisam Gobinkumar , Das Dulumani , Barman Utpal , Saikia Manob Jyoti
Published: August 2024

Alzheimer’s disease is a weakening neurodegenerative condition with profound cognitive implications, making early and accurate detection crucial for effective treatment. In recent years, machine learning, particularly deep learning, has shown significant promise in detecting mild cognitive impairment to Alzheimer’s disease conversion. This review synthesizes research on machine learning approaches for predicting conversion from mild cognitive impairment to Alzheimer’s disease dementia using magnetic resonance imaging, positron emission tomography, and other biomarkers. Various techniques used in literature such as machine learning, deep learning, and transfer learning were examined in this study. Additionally, data modalities and feature extraction methods analyzed by different researchers are discussed. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the current state of research in Alzheimer’s disease detection and highlights future research directions.
CT Imaging Findings of Pulmonary Artery Stenosis: A Pictorial Review
Authors: Zhang Mengdi , Chen Li , Bu Chao , Zhang Hanxi , Luo Jing , Wang Jing , Sun Qihua , Liu Qingyu , Sun Zhonghua , Li Yu
Published: August 2024

Pulmonary artery stenosis represents a group of disorders involving main, branch or peripheral pulmonary arteries with pain, dyspnea, hemoptysis or even no symptoms. Early diagnosis and timely intervention are crucial for reducing mortality, but timely diagnosis is challenging due to the non-specific symptoms. Computed tomography pulmonary angiography (CTPA) is useful in the diagnosis because it can provide more details about abnormal changes in the lumen, vessel wall and adjacent mediastinal structures. Congenital and acquired pulmonary artery anomalies have some characteristics on CTPA, which can be useful for differential diagnosis. Awareness of these conditions is important for radiologists. This pictorial review provides an overview of CTPA imaging features of pulmonary artery stenosis.
Real-Time Dosimetry in Endourology: Tracking Staff Radiation Risks
Authors: Deininger Susanne , Nairz Olaf , Dieplinger Anna Maria , Deininger Christian , Lusuardi Lukas , Ramesmayer Christian , Peters Julia , Oswald David , Pallauf Maximilian , Bauer Sophina , Brandt Mathias Christoph , Törzsök Peter
Published: August 2024

Background: To retrospectively investigate scatter radiation (SCR) exposure among staff in the endourology operating theatre. Methods: During surgeries under fluoroscopic guidance, five professional groups (urological surgeon [US], surgical nurse [SN], assistant surgical nurse [ASN], anaesthetist [A], and anaesthesia care [AC]) wore real-time dosimeters (Philips DoseAware System) on their head and chest over lead aprons between July 2023 and February 2024. The SCR data were analysed and correlated with procedural and patient factors. Results: In total, 249 procedures were performed, including 86 retrograde intrarenal surgeries and 10 percutaneous nephrolithotomies. Median SCR exposure was 38.81, 17.20, 7.71, 11.58, 0.63, 0.23, 0.12, and 0.15 Microsievert (µSv) for US chest (USC), US head (USH), SN chest (SNC), SN head (SNH), A chest (AC), AC chest (ACC), ASN chest (ASNC), and ASN head (ASNH), respectively. There was a significant correlation between DAP and SCR doses detected by USC, USH, SNC, SNH, AC, and ACC dosimeters (p < 0.05). The median chest-to-eye conversion factor (CECF) was 2.11 for the US and 0.71 for the SN. Conclusions: This study, using real-time dosimetry, is among the first to assess staff occupational SCR exposure in endourology. It highlights a substantial SCR exposure, indicating an occupational health hazard that warrants further investigation.
Evaluation of Systemic Risk Factors in Patients with Diabetes Mellitus for Detecting Diabetic Retinopathy with Random Forest Classification Model
Authors: Venkatesh Ramesh , Gandhi Priyanka , Choudhary Ayushi , Kathare Rupal , Chhablani Jay , Prabhu Vishma , Bavaskar Snehal , Hande Prathiba , Shetty Rohit , Reddy Nikitha Gurram , Rani Padmaja Kumari , Yadav Naresh Kumar
Published: August 2024

Background: This study aims to assess systemic risk factors in diabetes mellitus (DM) patients and predict diabetic retinopathy (DR) using a Random Forest (RF) classification model. Methods: We included DM patients presenting to the retina clinic for first-time DR screening. Data on age, gender, diabetes type, treatment history, DM control status, family history, pregnancy history, and systemic comorbidities were collected. DR and sight-threatening DR (STDR) were diagnosed via a dilated fundus examination. The dataset was split 80:20 into training and testing sets. The RF model was trained to detect DR and STDR separately, and its performance was evaluated using misclassification rates, sensitivity, and specificity. Results: Data from 1416 DM patients were analyzed. The RF model was trained on 1132 (80%) patients. The misclassification rates were 0% for DR and ~20% for STDR in the training set. External testing on 284 (20%) patients showed 100% accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity for DR detection. For STDR, the model achieved 76% (95% CI-70.7%–80.7%) accuracy, 53% (95% CI-39.2%–66.6%) sensitivity, and 80% (95% CI-74.6%–84.7%) specificity. Conclusions: The RF model effectively predicts DR in DM patients using systemic risk factors, potentially reducing unnecessary referrals for DR screening. However, further validation with diverse datasets is necessary to establish its reliability for clinical use.
Effect of a Novel Adaptive Handle Design on the Ergonomic Performance of Periodontal Curettes in Dental Hygienists with and without Musculoskeletal Disorders: A Pilot Clinical Study
Authors: Wink Cherie , Yang Susan Meishan , Habib Ali A. , Lin Kairong , Takesh Thair , Wilder-Smith Petra
Published: August 2024

(1) Background: Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs), discomfort, fatigue, pain, and other acute and chronic work-related injuries are common among dental clinicians. Hand instruments constitute a primary risk factor for these conditions. The overall goal of this study was to compare in dental hygienists with healthy hands, and in those with MSDs, the effect of three different handle designs on instrumentation-related muscle work, comfort, fatigue, and quality of tactile feedback. (2) Methods: Clinicians tested three periodontal curettes: one with a novel adaptive silicone handle, another with a rigid resin handle, and the third with a rigid silicone handle. Ten hygienists—five with MSDs and five without—each scaled three typodonts using the three different curettes. Statistical analysis was performed using a General Linear Model (GLIM) and Tukey’s post hoc test, and a significance level of p < 0.05 was implemented. (3) Results: On average, mean comfort and fatigue across all instruments were significantly worse in testers with MSDs, who also expended significantly more work to complete the same task. In all testers, a novel adaptive handle design was associated with significantly reduced total muscle work and post-instrumentation fatigue, as well as better comfort than conventional rigid handle designs. (4) Conclusions: An adaptive curette handle design demonstrated significantly better ergonomic outcomes than conventional rigid curette handle designs. Hygienists with MSDs expend significantly more muscle work during dental instrumentation.
The Efficacy of the RME II System Compared with a Herbst Appliance in the Treatment of Class II Skeletal Malocclusion in Growing Patients: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Ciavarella Domenico , Lorusso Mauro , Fanelli Carlotta , Ferrara Donatella , Esposito Rosa , Laurenziello Michele , Esperouz Fariba , Lo Russo Lucio , Tepedino Michele
Published: August 2024

(1) Background: The objective of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of the Rapid Maxillary Expander (RME) II System compared to a Herbst appliance and a control group in the treatment of class II skeletal malocclusions in growing patients. (2) Methods: A total of 30 class II patients treated using the RME II System (group R) were compared with 30 patients treated with a Herbst appliance (group H) and 30 untreated class II children (group C). Cephalograms were compared at the start (T0) and after 24 months (T1). Nine cephalometric parameters were analyzed: SN-MP, SN-PO, ANB, AR-GO-ME, AR-GO-N, N-GO-ME, SN-PP, LFH, CO-GN, 1+SN, IMPA, OVERJET, and OVERBITE. Since the variables failed the normality test, a Wilcoxon test was performed for a pairwise comparison of the cephalometric measurements taken at T0 (pre-treatment) and at T1 (post-treatment). ANOVA with Tukey post hoc correction was used to evaluate the differences among the groups. (3) Results: ANOVA showed a statistically significant difference for all analyzed variables except for AR-GO-ME, AR-GO-N, and N-GO-ME. Post hoc Tukey’s HSD test showed the following difference: the SN-PO angle in group H was 3.59° greater than in group R; the LFH in group H was 4.13 mm greater than in group R. The mandibular length (CO-GN) in group H was 3.94 mm greater than in group R; IMPA in group H was 6.4° greater than in group R; and the ANB angle in group H was 1.47° greater than in group R. (4) Conclusions: The RME II System is an effective therapeutic device for class II skeletal malocclusion treatment in growing patients.
Multibraided Fixed Retainers with Different Diameters after Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): In Vitro Study Investigating Temperature Changes and Bonding Efficacy
Authors: Sfondrini Maria Francesca , Pascadopoli Maurizio , Gandini Paola , Preda Lorenzo , Sfondrini Domenico , Bertino Karin , Rizzi Cinzia , Scribante Andrea
Published: August 2024

Objectives: Orthodontists are often asked to remove fixed retainers before patients undergo magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The present in vitro study was designed to analyze the heating and bonding efficacy of stainless steel multibraided fixed retainers after 1.5- and 3-tesla (T) MRI. Materials and methods: A total of 180 human mandibular incisors were used to create 45 specimens of four teeth each, divided into nine groups. Handmade multibraided fixed retainers of three different sizes, defined by the diameter of the initial wire used (0.008″, 0.010″ and 0.012″), were tested. Three groups underwent MRI at 1.5 T, another three groups underwent MRI at 3 T and the last three groups did not undergo MRI. Temperature was assessed before and after MRI. Shear bond strength (SBS) and adhesive remnant index (ARI) were assessed after MRI for all groups. Data were statistically analyzed (p < 0.05). Results: After 1.5 T exposure, no significant temperature increase from T0 to T1 was observed in any of the groups (p > 0.05). Regarding the 3 T groups, a significant difference from T0 to T1 was found for all the groups (p < 0.05). Temperature changes were not clinically relevant, as they were less than 1 °C for all groups except for group 3 (ΔT0–T1: 1.18 ± 0.3 °C) and group 6 (ΔT0–T1: 1.12 ± 0.37 °C). Furthermore, there were no significant differences between the temperature variations associated with different wire diameters (p > 0.05). Conclusions: No significant changes in SBS or ARI were found (p > 0.05). Clinical significance: Since overheating was irrelevant and adhesion values did not change, the tested devices were concluded to be safe for MRI examinations at 1.5 T and 3 T.
New Quantum Private Comparison Using Bell States
Authors: Hou Min , Wu Yue
Published: August 2024

Quantum private comparison (QPC) represents a cryptographic approach that enables two parties to determine whether their confidential data are equivalent, without disclosing the actual values. Most existing QPC protocols utilizing single photons or Bell states are considered highly feasible, but they suffer from inefficiency. To address this issue, we present a novel QPC protocol that capitalizes on the entanglement property of Bell states and local operations to meet the requirements of efficiency. In the proposed protocol, two participants with private inputs perform local operations on shared Bell states received from a semi-honest third party (STP). Afterward, the modified qubits are returned to the STP, who can then determine the equality of the private inputs and relay the results to the participants. A simulation on the IBM Quantum Cloud Platform confirmed the feasibility of our protocol, and a security analysis further demonstrated that the STP and both participants were unable to learn anything about the individual private inputs. In comparison to other QPC protocols, our proposed solution offers superior performance in terms of efficiency.
Incoherence: A Generalized Measure of Complexity to Quantify Ensemble Divergence in Multi-Trial Experiments and Simulations
Authors: Davey Timothy
Published: August 2024

Complex systems pose significant challenges to traditional scientific and statistical methods due to their inherent unpredictability and resistance to simplification. Accurately detecting complex behavior and the uncertainty which comes with it is therefore essential. Using the context of previous studies, we introduce a new information-theoretic measure, termed “incoherence”. By using an adapted Jensen-Shannon Divergence across an ensemble of outcomes, we quantify the aleatoric uncertainty of the system. First we compared this measure to established statistical tests using both continuous and discrete data. Before demonstrating how incoherence can be applied to identify key characteristics of complex systems, including sensitivity to initial conditions, criticality, and response to perturbations.
Design Proposals for High-Voltage Stacked Configuration GaN Module
Authors: Frivaldsky Michal , Zelnik Richard , Spanik Pavol
Published: August 2024

In this paper, the operational verification of the stacked transistor configuration is provided, focusing on the use of GaN transistors. The methodology is based on simulated and laboratory experiments. The stacked transistor configuration appears to be a promising solution to increase the voltage-blocking capability of GaN technology for high-voltage operations. Currently available GaN transistors are manufactured for 650 V of blocking voltage. Devices with a higher voltage-blocking capability are not currently available. Therefore, the stacked module was verified, while the main focus was on the driving circuit design, verification, and testing. For this purpose, two alternatives of GaN transistor technology have been compared. The main goal was to reach 800 V of blocking voltage with acceptable voltage deviation for nominal power of a power semiconductor converter.
Light Recurrent Unit: Towards an Interpretable Recurrent Neural Network for Modeling Long-Range Dependency
Authors: Ye Hong , Zhang Yibing , Liu Huizhou , Li Xuannong , Chang Jiaming , Zheng Hui
Published: August 2024

Recurrent neural networks (RNNs) play a pivotal role in natural language processing and computer vision. Long short-term memory (LSTM), as one of the most representative RNNs, is built upon relatively complex architecture with an excessive number of parameters, which results in large storage, high training cost, and lousy interpretability. In this paper, we propose a lightweight network called Light Recurrent Unit (LRU). On the one hand, we designed an accessible gate structure, which has high interpretability and addresses the issue of gradient disappearance. On the other hand, we introduce the Stack Recurrent Cell (SRC) structure to modify the activation function, which not only expedites convergence rates but also enhances the interpretability of the network. Experimental results show that our proposed LRU has the advantages of fewer parameters, strong interpretability, and effective modeling ability for variable length sequences on several datasets. Consequently, LRU could be a promising alternative to traditional RNN models in real-time applications with space or time constraints, potentially reducing storage and training costs while maintaining high performance.
Calibration of a Class A Power Quality Analyser Connected to the Cloud in Real Time
Authors: Cano-Ortega A. , Sanchez-Sutil F. , Hernandez J. C. , Gilabert-Torres C. , Baier C. R.
Published: August 2024

Power quality measurements are essential to monitor, analyse and control the operation of smart grids within power systems. This work aims to develop and calibrate a PQ network analyser. As the penetration of non-linear loads connected to power systems is increasing every day, it is essential to measure power quality. In this sense, a power quality (PQ) analyser is based on the high-speed sampling of electrical signals in single-phase and three-phase electrical installations, which are available in real time for analysis using wireless Wi-Fi (Wireless-Fidelity) networks. The PQAE (Power Quality Analyser Embedded) power quality analyser has met the calibration standards for Class A devices from IEC 61000-4-30, IEC 61000-4-7 and IEC 62586-2. In this paper, a complete guide to the tests included in this standard has been provided. The Fast Fourier Transform (FFT) obtains the harmonic components from the measured signals and the window functions used reduce spectral leakage. The window size depends on the fundamental frequency of, intensity of and changes in the signal. Harmonic measurements from the 2nd to 50th harmonics for each phase of the voltage and each phase and neutral of the current have been performed, using the Fast Fourier transform algorithm with various window functions and their comparisons. PQAE is developed on an open-source platform that allows you to adapt its programming to the measurement needs of the users.
An Improved Graph Deviation Network for Chiller Fault Diagnosis by Integrating the Sparse Cointegration Analysis and the Convolutional Block Attention Mechanism
Authors: Sun Bingxu , Liang Dekuan , Zhang Hanyuan
Published: August 2024

Chiller fault diagnosis plays a crucial role in optimizing energy efficiency within heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems. The non-stationary nature of chiller fault data presents a significant challenge, as conventional methodologies often fail to adequately capture the relationships between non-stationary variables. To address this limitation and enhance diagnostic accuracy, this paper proposes an improved graph deviation network for chiller fault diagnosis by integrating the sparse cointegration analysis and the convolutional block attention mechanism. First, in order to obtain sparse fault features in non-stationary operation, this paper adopts the sparse cointegration analysis method (SCA). Further, to augment the diagnosis accuracy, this paper proposes the improved graph deviation network (IGDN) to classify fault datasets, which is a combination of the output of a graph deviation network (GDN) with a convolutional block attention mechanism (CBAM). This novel architecture enables sequential evaluation of attention maps along independent temporal and spatial dimensions, followed by element-wise multiplication with input features for adaptive feature optimization. Finally, detailed experiments and comparisons are performed. Comparative analyses reveal that SCA outperforms alternative feature extraction algorithms in addressing the non-stationary characteristics of chiller systems. Furthermore, the IGDN exhibits superior fault diagnosis accuracy across various fault severity levels.
Research on the Mechanism of Evolution of Mechanical Anisotropy during the Progressive Failure of Oil Shale under Real-Time High-Temperature Conditions
Authors: Yang Shaoqiang , Zhang Qinglun , Yang Dong , Wang Lei
Published: August 2024

Real-time high-temperature CT scanning and a rock-mechanics test system were employed to investigate the mechanical properties of oil shale at temperatures from 20 to 600 °C. The results reveal that up to 400 °C, the aperture of fractures initially decreases and then increases when loading is perpendicular to the bedding. However, the number and aperture continuously increase when loading is parallel to the bedding. Beyond 400 °C, the number of pores increases and the aperture of the fractures becomes larger with rising temperature. The changes in microstructures significantly impact the mechanical properties. Between 20 and 600 °C, the compressive strength, elastic modulus, and Poisson’s ratio initially decrease and then increase under perpendicular and parallel bedding loadings. The compressive strength and elastic modulus reach minimum values at 400 °C. However, for Poisson’s ratio, the minimum occurs at 500 °C and 200 °C under perpendicular and parallel bedding loadings, respectively. Simultaneously, while the crack damage stress during perpendicular bedding loading, σcd-per, initially exhibits an upward trend followed by a decline and subsequently increases again with temperature increasing, the initial stress during perpendicular bedding loading, σci-per, parallel bedding loading, σci-par, and damage stress, σcd-par, decrease initially and then increase, reaching minimum values at 400 °C. These research findings provide essential data for reservoir reconstruction and cementing technology in the in situ mining of oil shale.
Exploring a Water–Energy–Food (WEF) Nexus Approach to Governance: A Case Study of the V&A Waterfront in Cape Town, South Africa
Authors: Swart Lourens , Swilling Mark , Gcanga Amanda
Published: August 2024

The water–energy–food (WEF) nexus is recognised globally as a framework for sustainable resource management and a potential tool for building resilient social-ecological systems (SES). To verify this, we used a transdisciplinary approach to explore how the WEF nexus approach is understood theoretically and practically. The analysis indicated a disparity in how the WEF nexus framework is understood and conceptualised in theory, and the practical implementation of the framework. Given this, the study found it challenging to validate the WEF nexus as a supporting tool for building SES resilience. In line with this, this study argues for a deeper exploration of the practical implementation of the WEF nexus framework in planning, governance and social processes. As such, the study analysed the governance and management systems of the Victoria and Alfred Waterfront (V&A), a precinct in Cape Town that adopted the WEF nexus approach for sustainable management of water, energy, food and waste resources. Using the analysis of V&A Waterfront’s management practices—including the use of the Global Carbon Exchange (GCX) system—from a practical, social and governance perspective, the aim was to understand whether a bridge between WEF nexus theory and governance practice impacts the practical ability to govern for SES resilience. Findings suggest that the nexus governance approach at the V&A Waterfront has implications that strengthen the capacity to govern for SES resilience in the V&A Waterfront context. The conclusion is then made that the nexus governance approach also strengthens the capacity to govern for SES resilience in the Cape Town context. Results also suggest the most crucial element for the success of the nexus governance approach is a material flow analysis (MFA)-based decision support system (DSS) exemplified by GCX Data Analytics Sustainability Hub (DASH-).
Current Measurement of Three-Core Cables via Magnetic Sensors
Authors: Su Jingang , Zhang Peng , Huang Xingwang , Pang Xianhai , Diao Xun , Li Yan
Published: August 2024

Due to their compact structure and low laying cost, three-core power cables are widely used for power distribution networks. The three-phases of such cables are distributed symmetrically with a 120° shift to each other. Phase current is an important parameter to reflect the operation state of the power system and three-core cable. Three-core symmetrical power cables use a common shield, leading to magnetic field cancelation outside the cable during steady operation. Thus, traditional magnetic-based current transformers cannot measure the phase current on three-core cable non-invasively. In order to measure the phase current more conveniently, a phase current measurement method for three-core cables based on a magnetic sensor is proposed in this paper. Nonlinear equations of a phase current and the magnetic field of a measuring point are constructed. The calculated magnetic field distribution of the three-core cable is verified using a finite element simulation. The effectiveness of the measurement method is further validated through experiments. This proposed method is able to conveniently detect the phase current of three-core power cables, which can help cable maintenance.
Impact of Climate Change on Electric Energy Production from Medium-Size Photovoltaic Module Systems Based on RCP Climate Scenarios
Authors: Bozsik Nándor , Szeberényi András , Bozsik Norbert
Published: August 2024

The impact of climate change is increasingly evident in various domains today and is gaining prominence in scientific inquiries. Climate change also affects the utilisation of renewable energies. The article examines the effects of 21st-century climate change on the annual electric energy production of medium-sized photovoltaic module systems. The study bases its analysis on three possible scenarios: a pessimistic (RCP 8.5), a less pessimistic (RCP 4.5), and an optimistic (RCP 2.6) scenario. The applied Representative Concentration Pathways (RCP) scenarios were developed by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) to enhance comparability in analyses related to climate change. Compared to older linear models, an innovation utilises a more flexible and multidirectional model. One of the article’s key findings is that, for all three examined settlements, the annual yield of the studied photovoltaic systems will surpass the levels of the base year 2010 by the middle and end of the century. Another significant outcome is that, under the three scenarios analysed, the ratio of annual performance variation to annual global radiation variation shows substantial differences by the middle and end of the century compared to the 2010 baseline. In the optimistic scenario, this ratio exceeds 1, whereas in the pessimistic and less pessimistic scenarios, it falls below 1. This ratio does not directly inform about the annual production—which increases in all cases—but rather about the changes in efficiency. These efficiency changes are influenced by the rise in annual average temperatures and the fluctuation in sunny hours yearly. The third finding reveals that under the climate change pessimistic scenario (RCP 8.5), the efficiency decrease is less adverse than in the less pessimistic scenario (RCP 4.5).