bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Reliable Wireless Protocol for Highway and Metered-Ramp CAV Collaborative Merging with Constant-Time-Headway Safety Guarantee
Authors: Fan Xueli , Wang Qixin , Liu Jie
Published: July 2023

To realize the grand vision of automated driving in smart vehicle
cyber-physical systems
(CPS), one important task is to support the merging of
connected automated vehicles
(CAVs) from a metered-ramp to highway. Certain safety rules must be guaranteed. However, this demand is complicated by the inherently unreliable wireless communications. In this article, we focus on the well adopted
constant-time-headway
(CTH) safety rule. We propose a highway and metered-ramp CAV collaborative merging protocol, and formally prove its guarantee of the CTH safety and liveness under
arbitrary wireless data packet losses
. These theoretical claims are further validated by our simulations. Furthermore, the simulation results also show significant improvements in the merging efficiency over other solution alternatives. Particularly, the merging success rates are more than 99% better in 11 out of 18 comparison pairs, and 0% (i.e., tied) ∼ 71% better in the remaining 7 comparison pairs.
A Functional Classification of Forensic Access to Storage and its Legal Implications
Authors: Hammer Andreas , Ohlig Mathis , Geus Julian , Freiling Felix
Published: July 2023

Due to their ease of use and their reliability, managed storage services in the cloud have become a standard way to store files for many users. Consequently, data from cloud storage services and remote file systems in general is an increasingly valuable source of digital evidence in forensic investigations. In this respect, two questions appear relevant: (1) What effect does data acquisition by the client have on the data stored on the server? (2) Does the technology support delayed verification of data acquisition? The two questions refer to critical aspects of forensic evidence collection, namely, in what way does evidence collection interfere with the evidence, and how easy is it to prove the provenance of data in a forensic investigation. We formalize the above questions and use this formalization to classify common storage services. We argue that this classification has direct consequences with regard to the probative value of data acquired from them. We, therefore, discuss the legal implications of this classification with regard to probative value so that IT expert witnesses can adapt their procedures during evidence acquisition and legal practitioners know how to assess such procedures and the evidence obtained through them from cloud storage services.
Development of a pH-independent Post-CMP Cleaning Solution using Phosphoric Acid-based Surfactants for Removal of Ceria Nanoparticles
Authors: Myong Kyong Kyu , Byun Jinuk , Lee Jiseok , Lim Taeho , Kim Jae Jeong
Published: July 2023

The global interest and demand for the advancement of semiconductor technology, including 3 nm generation semiconductors and gate-all-around semiconductors, continues to rise. This study presents an improvement plan aimed at enhancing performance and yield in the semiconductor manufacturing process, with particular emphasis on the post-CMP cleaning of SiO2 surface. The removal of residual ceria abrasives from SiO2 surfaces after the SiO2-chemical and mechanical planarization (SiO2-CMP) process is a sincere concern in the post-CMP cleaning process because the strong interaction between ceria nanoparticles and SiO2 makes their removal challenging. Herein, we propose a cleaning solution containing a phosphoric acid-based surfactant to address this issue. Three phosphoric-acid-based surfactants with varying numbers of phosphoric acid groups were evaluated, and etidronic acid (EA) with two phosphoric acid groups was found to be the most suitable surfactant. The EA demonstrated a reasonably negative zeta potential of the ceria nanoparticles, a key factor for efficient cleaning, despite variations in solution pH, pH adjuster cations, and surfactant and oxidizing agent (hydrogen peroxide) concentrations. Furthermore, the efficiency of the cleaning solution containing EA was evaluated, and the results confirmed the potential of EA as a promising surfactant for use in the post-CMP cleaning process.
Two-Step Cyclic Etching of Copper Thin Films Using Acetylacetone/O2 Gases
Authors: Kim Seung Hyun , Lim Eun Taek , Park Sung Yong , Chung Chee Won
Published: July 2023

Two-step cyclic etching of copper thin films was carried out using acetylacetone/O2 gases and Ar plasma. The copper film surfaces were first modified by exposing them to acetylacetone/O2 gases and the modified layers were removed via Ar-ion sputtering. The surface modification step was optimized by varying the flow rate of the acetylacetone/O2 gases and exposure time. The removal step was optimized by varying the dc-bias voltage to the substrate as well as sputtering time. The surface modification and removal of the modified layers were confirmed by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. The etch per cycle was estimated to be in the range of 0.7–3.0 nm. The cyclic etching of the copper films using acetylacetone/O2 gases and Ar sputtering revealed good etch profiles with an etch slope of 70° without redepositions. It is proposed that the cyclic etching using acetylacetone/O2 gases and Ar can be a suitable method to delineate the fine patterns on copper films.
Roles of Phthalic Acid and Oleic Acid on Chemical Mechanical Polishing in Alkaline Slurries for Cobalt Interconnects
Authors: Zhang Lifei , Wang Shuhui , Wang Tongqing , Lu Xinchun
Published: July 2023

Cobalt (Co) with its low resistivity, excellent resistance to electro-migration with co-deposition property and void-free seamless fill ability, pledges to transform the landscape of integrated circuits in many areas, especially in logic contacts and interconnects. Chemical mechanical polishing (CMP), which utilizes the synergistic action of chemical corrosion and mechanical wear, has been recognized as the exclusive manufacturing approach to achieve global and local planarization of wafer surfaces. In this work, we proposed an innovative hydrogen peroxide (HP) polishing slurry, applying phthalic acid as the complexing agent and oleic acid as the corrosion inhibitor at pH 10. From the results of appropriate material removal/static etching rates as well as the smooth surface morphologies, phthalic acid and oleic acid are identified to be qualified in HP-based slurries for heterogeneous materials of Co interconnects. Moreover, the mechanisms of complexation and inhibition have been revealed by electrochemical analysis and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy tests. It can be concluded that with the addition of complexing agent phthalic acid in HP-based slurries, the transformation of oxidization from low-valence compounds to high-valence was partially replaced by stronger complexing action, making the removal mechanism be attributed to the combined oxidization and complexation. When oleic acid is introduced, it could react with Co oxides to form a polymer protection layer adsorbing on Co films, achieving an inhibition effect to avoid Co excessive corrosion. Meanwhile, the oxidization of HP as well as the complexation of phthalic acid, combined with the protection of oleic acid play critical roles to maintain the appropriate removal rates and selection ratios.
Structural, Morphological and Electrical Studies of Co1-x
Zn
x
Fe2O4 Ceramics
Authors: Shah Tuntun , Dalai Biswajit , Sutar Bijuni C. , Bhoi Krishnamayee , Mohanty Hari S. , Pradhan Dillip K.
Published: July 2023

The Zn-modified CoFe2O4 (CZFO) (Co1−x
Zn
x
Fe2O4 (0.0 ≤ x ≤ 0.4)) is synthesised using the sol-gel auto-combustion method. The structural properties of CZFO at room temperature (RT) are studied using the X-ray diffraction technique. Rietveld refinement XRD data ratified the formation of single-phase cubic spinel with Fd-3m space group. The average crystallite size of CZFO ceramics is measured from the XRD data employing the Williamson-Hall method. The lattice constant is increased with an increase in Zn concentration (x). FESEM micrographs confirm the uniform distribution of grains and the presence of small amounts of pores throughout the sample microstructure. The EDX characterization of these samples confirms the phase purity of compounds. The electrical properties are explored as a function of temperature over wide frequencies. The value of the dielectric constant increases with an increasing Zn concentration. Complex impedance and complex modulus spectroscopic techniques reveal the existence of the non-Debye kind of dielectric relaxation behaviour. AC conductivity (σ

ac
) increases with increase in frequency, while decreases with increase in Zn concentration. Temperature-dependent σ

ac
study suggests the presence of NTCR behaviour in Co1−x
Zn
x
Fe2O4 ceramics. The estimated values of activation energy (E

a
) increase with the substitution of Zn in cobalt ferrite.
Regulation of cardiac fibroblasts by lymphocytes after a myocardial infarction: playing in the major league
Authors: Learmonth Maya , Corker Alexa , Dasgupta Shaoni , DeLeon-Pennell Kristine Y.
Published: July 2023

Cardiac fibrosis is a pathological condition characterized by excessive accumulation of extracellular matrix components within the myocardium, which can lead to impaired cardiac function and heart failure. Studies have shown that lymphocytes including B and T cells play important roles in the development and progression of cardiac fibrosis after a myocardial infarction. In this review, we focus on the regulation of cardiac fibrosis by lymphocyte subsets, with a particular emphasis on CD4+ and CD8+ T cells and their effects on fibroblasts and cardiac remodeling. We also highlight areas for further exploration of the interactions between T cells and fibroblasts necessary for understanding and treating cardiac fibrosis and heart failure.
Insights into Wall-Jet Scouring Characterization with the Kinect Device: Benefits and Limitations
Authors: Bali Hadi , Mohajeri Seyed Hossein , Samadi Amir
Published: July 2023

This study explores the use of the Kinect device for measuring Three-Dimensional (3D) Digital Elevation Models (DEMs) of wall-jet scour holes and its benefits and limitations. The Kinect device can accurately measure wall-jet scour holes in dry conditions with an accuracy of ±0.05 cm, but significant errors occur in the presence of water due to water surface refraction. A code based on Snell’s law was developed to correct these errors, resulting in good agreement with point gauge measurements with an accuracy of ±0.12 cm. The method is not recommended for tail-water depth ratios smaller than three and densimetric Froude numbers larger than 7.75 due to water surface fluctuations. The findings have important implications for improving the efficiency and accuracy of scour hole measurements in hydraulic engineering, particularly for submerged wall-jet scouring, and the developed code can also be applied to other optical measurement devices.
Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice among Dental Sciences and Internship Students in Ajman University, United Arab Emirates: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Jaber M. A. , Alfarra Mohammed B Q , Abdelmagied Mawada Hassan , Varma Sudhir , El-Ameen Essra , Abu Fanas Salem
Published: July 2023

Background. The aim of this study was to assess the COVID-19-related knowledge, attitudes, and practice among dental students (DS) and internship students at Ajman University (AU). Methods. A cross-sectional, web-based study was conducted among Ajman dental college students registered in the academic year 2019/2020, about COVID-19 during the first week of April 2020. A questionnaire was developed and distributed to all DS to examine their knowledge and attitudes toward the COVID-19 pandemic. Chi-square (χ2) test was used to investigate the level of association among categorical variables at the significance level of

p
<
0.05

. Results. Out of 769 students in the dental college, majority (75%) had adequate knowledge of COVID-19, but only 40.6% of the participants projected a positive attitude. A positive behavior was reported by an overwhelming 94.5% of the participants. Participants above 25 years of age had significantly higher (

p
<
0.001

) adequate knowledge (88.2%), positive attitude (56.9%), and positive behavior (100%) compared to those below 25 years of age. Study participants reported social media (71.1%), government websites (63.7%), and family and friends (41.0%) as top three sources of information regarding COVID-19 related information. Conclusion. The results of this study show that AU dental and internship students have adequate knowledge and positive attitude of the COVID-19 pandemic but the majority are not eager to adopt effective strategies to avoid the spread of COVID-19 (practice). Further education should be offered to encourage efficient infection management practices to protect students, faculty, and other university staff.
[Retracted] Automated Detection and Segmentation of Exudates for the Screening of Background Retinopathy
Authors: Kaur Jaskirat , Mittal Deepti , Malebary Sharaf , Nayak Soumya Ranjan , Kumar Devendra , Kumar Manoj , Gagandeep  , Singh Simrandeep
Published: July 2023

Exudate, an asymptomatic yellow deposit on retina, is among the primary characteristics of background diabetic retinopathy. Background diabetic retinopathy is a retinopathy related to high blood sugar levels which slowly affects all the organs of the body. The early detection of exudates aids doctors in screening the patients suffering from background diabetic retinopathy. A computer‐aided method proposed in the present work detects and then segments the exudates in the images of retina acquired using a digital fundus camera by (i) gradient method to trace the contour of exudates, (ii) marking the connected candidate pixels to remove false exudates pixels, and (iii) linking the edge pixels for the boundary extraction of exudates. The method is tested on 1307 retinal fundus images with varying characteristics. Six hundred and forty‐nine images were acquired from hospital and the remaining 658 from open‐source benchmark databases, namely, STARE, DRIVE MESSIDOR, DiaretDB1, and e‐Ophtha. The exudates segmentation method proposed in this research work results in the retinal fundus image‐based (i) accuracy of 98.04%, (ii) sensitivity of 95.345%, and (iii) specificity of 98.63%. The segmentation results for a number of exudates‐based evaluations depict the average (i) accuracy of 95.68%, (ii) sensitivity of 93.44%, and (iii) specificity of 97.22%. The substantial combined performance at image and exudates‐based evaluations proves the contribution of the proposed method in mass screening as well as treatment process of background diabetic retinopathy.
Platelet-to-Monocyte Ratio as a Novel Promising Agent for the Prognosis of Hepatitis B Virus-Associated Decompensated Cirrhosis
Authors: Zhou Jun , Li Xin , Wang Min , Gu Chunrong , Liu Jingping
Published: July 2023

Aim. The present study aimed at investigating associations of the platelet-to-monocyte ratio (PMR), a novel hematological indicator of inflammatory responses with 30-day outcomes in patients with HBV-associated decompensated cirrhosis (HBV-DeCi). Methods. We recruited 329 patients with HBV-DeCi for this retrospective study and extracted baseline clinical data and laboratory characteristics from medical records. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to determine major factors influencing 30-day mortality. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis was performed to compare the predictive values of prognostic markers. Results. During the 30-day follow-up period, 21 (6.4%) patients died. The PMR was significantly different between nonsurvivors and survivors. Lower PMR was found to be associated with an increased risk of 30-day mortality, and PMR (odds ratio: 1.011; 95% CI: 1.003–1.019;

P
=
0.005

) was found to be an independent predictor of 30-day mortality in patients with HBV-DeCi with a significant predictive value (AUC = 0.826, 95% CI: 0.781–0.865). The combination of PMR and MELD score could improve prognostic accuracy in these patients (AUC = 0.911, 95% CI: 0.876–0.940). Conclusions. Our results demonstrate that low PMR may be an independent predictor of 30-day mortality in patients with HBV-DeCi, and combined with the MELD score, it may be useful to complement other conventional measures to enable effective management of these patients.
Data from Retinol saturase mediates retinoid metabolism to impair a ferroptosis defense system in cancer cells
Authors: Bi Guoshu , Liang Jiaqi , Shan Guangyao , Bian Yunyi , Chen Zhencong , Huang Yiwei , Lu Tao , Li Ming , Besskaya Valeria , Zhao Mengnan , Fan Hong , Wang Qun , Gan Boyi , Zhan Cheng
Published: July 2023

Abstract
Ferroptosis is an iron-dependent form of regulated cell death induced by the lethal overload of lipid peroxides in cellular membranes. In recent years, modulating ferroptosis has gained attention as a potential therapeutic approach for tumor suppression. In the present study, retinol saturase (RETSAT) was identified as a significant ferroptosis mediator using a publicly accessible CRISPR/Cas9 screening dataset. RETSAT depletion protected tumor cells from lipid peroxidation and subsequent cell death triggered by various ferroptosis inducers. Furthermore, exogenous supplementation with retinoids, including retinol (the substrate of RETSAT) and its derivatives retinal and retinoic acid, also suppressed ferroptosis, whereas the product of RETSAT, 13, 14-dihydroretinol, failed to do so. As effective radical-trapping antioxidant, retinoids protected the lipid membrane from autoxidation and subsequent fragmentation, thus terminating the cascade of ferroptosis. Pseudotargeted lipidomic analysis identified an association between retinoid regulation of ferroptosis and lipid metabolism. Retinoic acid, but not 13, 14-dihydroretinoic acid, interacted with its nuclear receptor and activated transcription of SCD, which introduces the first double bond into saturated fatty acid and thus catalyzes the generation of monounsaturated fatty acid, a known ferroptosis suppressor. Therefore, RETSAT promotes ferroptosis by transforming retinol to 13, 14-dihydroretinol, thereby turning a strong anti-ferroptosis regulator into a relatively weak one.
Data from Retinol Saturase Mediates Retinoid Metabolism to Impair a Ferroptosis Defense System in Cancer Cells
Authors: Bi Guoshu , Liang Jiaqi , Shan Guangyao , Bian Yunyi , Chen Zhencong , Huang Yiwei , Lu Tao , Li Ming , Besskaya Valeria , Zhao Mengnan , Fan Hong , Wang Qun , Gan Boyi , Zhan Cheng
Published: July 2023

Abstract
Ferroptosis is an iron-dependent form of regulated cell death induced by the lethal overload of lipid peroxides in cellular membranes. In recent years, modulating ferroptosis has gained attention as a potential therapeutic approach for tumor suppression. In the current study, retinol saturase (RETSAT) was identified as a significant ferroptosis mediator using a publicly accessible CRISPR/Cas9 screening dataset. RETSAT depletion protected tumor cells from lipid peroxidation and subsequent cell death triggered by various ferroptosis inducers. Furthermore, exogenous supplementation with retinoids, including retinol (the substrate of RETSAT) and its derivatives retinal and retinoic acid, also suppressed ferroptosis, whereas the product of RETSAT, 13, 14-dihydroretinol, failed to do so. As effective radical-trapping antioxidant, retinoids protected the lipid membrane from autoxidation and subsequent fragmentation, thus terminating the cascade of ferroptosis. Pseudotargeted lipidomic analysis identified an association between retinoid regulation of ferroptosis and lipid metabolism. Retinoic acid, but not 13, 14-dihydroretinoic acid, interacted with its nuclear receptor and activated transcription of stearoyl-CoA desaturase, which introduces the first double bond into saturated fatty acid and thus catalyzes the generation of monounsaturated fatty acid, a known ferroptosis suppressor. Therefore, RETSAT promotes ferroptosis by transforming retinol to 13, 14-dihydroretinol, thereby turning a strong anti-ferroptosis regulator into a relatively weak one.
Significance:
Retinoids have ferroptosis-protective properties and can be metabolized by RETSAT to promote ferroptosis, suggesting the possibility of targeting retinoid metabolism in cancer as a treatment strategy to trigger ferroptosis.
Body Composition, Relative Dose Intensity, and Adverse Events among Patients with Colon Cancer
Authors: Cheng En , Caan Bette J. , Cawthon Peggy M. , Evans William J. , Hellerstein Marc K. , Shankaran Mahalakshmi , Nyangau Edna , Campbell Kristin L. , Lee Catherine , Binder Alexandra M. , Meyerhardt Jeffrey A. , Schmitz Kathryn H. , Cespedes Feliciano Elizabeth M.
Published: July 2023

Background:

Despite evidence that low muscle increases the risk of chemotoxicity, most chemotherapies are dosed on body surface area without considering body composition. Among 178 patients with colon cancer, we assessed muscle and adipose tissue with multiple techniques and examined their associations with relative dose intensity (RDI) and adverse events.

Methods:

We estimated (i) cross-sectional skeletal muscle area (SMA) and total adipose tissue (TAT) area at L3 from computed tomography (CT); (ii) appendicular lean mass (ALM) and total body fat (TBF) mass from dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA); and (iii) total body skeletal muscle mass using D3-creatine (D3Cr) dilution. We standardized each measurement by its sex-specific standard deviation (SD). The primary outcome was reduced RDI (RDI <85%). The secondary outcome was the number of moderate and severe adverse events during each cycle of chemotherapy. We estimated the associations of muscle and adipose tissue measurements (per SD increase) with reduced RDI using logistic regression and adverse events using generalized estimating equations for repeated measures.

Results:

Higher CT SMA and DXA ALM were significantly associated with a lower risk of reduced RDI [odds ratios: 0.56 (0.38–0.81) for CT SMA; 0.56 (0.37–0.84) for DXA ALM]. No measurements of muscle or adipose tissue were associated with adverse events.

Conclusions:

More muscle was associated with improved chemotherapy completion among patients with colon cancer, whereas muscle and adipose tissue were not associated with adverse events.

Impact:

Considering body composition may help personalize dosing for colon cancer chemotherapy by identifying patients at risk for poor chemotherapy outcomes.
Data from Additional Oncogenic Alterations in RAS-Driven Differentiated Thyroid Cancers Associate with Worse Clinicopathologic Outcomes
Authors: Bikas Athanasios , Ahmadi Sara , Pappa Theodora , Marqusee Ellen , Wong Kristine , Nehs Matthew A. , Cho Nancy L. , Haase Jacob , Doherty Gerard M. , Sehgal Kartik , Barletta Justine A. , Alexander Erik K. , Landa Iñigo
Published: July 2023

AbstractPurpose:
RAS mutations occur across the spectrum of thyroid neoplasms, and more tools are needed for better prognostication. The objective of this study was to evaluate how additional genetic events affecting key genes modify prognosis in patients with RAS-mutant thyroid cancers, and specifically differentiated thyroid cancers (DTC).
Experimental Design:
We performed a clinical–genomic analysis of consecutive patients with DTC, poorly differentiated (PDTC), or anaplastic thyroid cancer (ATC) between January 2014 and December 2021, in whom a custom-targeted next-generation sequencing assay was performed. Patients harboring RAS mutations were included, and we compared their clinical features and outcomes based upon the presence of additional oncogenic alterations.
Results:
Seventy-eight patients were identified, with 22% (17/78) harboring a driver RAS mutation plus an additional oncogenic alteration. All six (100%) ATCs had an additional mutation. Compared with DTCs harboring a solitary RAS mutation, patients with DTC with RAS and additional mutation(s) were more likely to be classified as American Thyroid Association high-risk of recurrence (77% vs. 12%; P < 0.001) and to have larger primary tumors (4.7 vs. 2.5 cm; P = 0.002) and advanced stage (III or IV) at presentation (67% vs. 3%; P < 0.001). Importantly, over an average 65-month follow-up, DTC-specific-mortality was more than 10-fold higher (20% vs. 1.8%; P = 0.011) when additional mutations were identified.
Conclusions:
Identification of key additional mutations in patients with RAS-mutant thyroid cancers confers a more aggressive phenotype, increases mortality risk in DTC, and can explain the diversity of RAS-mutated thyroid neoplasia. These data support genomic profiling of DTCs to inform prognosis and clinical decision-making.
Psoriasis: Weitere kortikoidfreie topische Therapie in Sicht
Authors: Philipp Sandra
Published: July 2023

Background: Tapinarof cream is a topical aryl hydrocarbon receptor-modulating agent under investigation for the treatment of psoriasis. Tapinarof modulates the expression of interleukin-17 and the skin-barrier proteins filaggrin and loricrin. Methods: We conducted two identical phase 3 randomized trials of tapinarof in patients with mild-to-severe plaque psoriasis. Adults with a baseline Physician’s Global Assessment (PGA) score of 2 (mild) to 4 (severe) (on a scale from 0 to 4, with higher scores indicating more severe psoriasis) and a percent of total body-surface area affected of 3 to 20% were randomly assigned in a 2:1 ratio to use tapinarof 1% cream or vehicle cream once daily for 12 weeks. The primary end point, PGA response, was a PGA score of 0 (clear) or 1 (almost clear) and a decrease from baseline of at least 2 points at week 12. Secondary efficacy end points at week 12 were a reduction of at least 75% in the Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI) score, a PGA score of 0 or 1, the mean change from baseline in the percent of body-surface area affected, and a reduction of at least 90% in the PASI score. Patient-reported outcomes were the mean changes from baseline to week 12 in the proportion of patients who had a decrease of at least 4 points in the Peak Pruritus Numeric Rating Scale (PP-NRS) score (range, 0 [no itch] to 10 [worst imaginable itch]), the PP-NRS total score, the Dermatology Life Quality Index total score, and the Psoriasis Symptom Diary score. Results: In trials 1 and 2, a total of 692 and 674 patients, respectively, were screened, with 510 and 515 patients being enrolled. A PGA response occurred in 35.4% of the patients in the tapinarof group and in 6.0% of those in the vehicle group in trial 1 and in 40.2% and 6.3%, respectively, in trial 2 (p < 0.001 for both comparisons). Results for secondary end points and patient-reported outcomes were generally in the same direction as those for the primary end point. Adverse events with tapinarof cream included folliculitis, nasopharyngitis, contact dermatitis, headache, upper respiratory tract infection, and pruritus. Conclusions: Tapinarof 1% cream once daily was superior to vehicle control in reducing the severity of plaque psoriasis over a period of 12 weeks but was associated with local adverse events and headache. Larger and longer trials are needed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of tapinarof cream as compared with existing treatments for psoriasis. (Funded by Dermavant Sciences; PSOARING 1 and 2 ClinicalTrials.gov numbers, NCT03956355 and NCT03983980, respectively.).
Basalzellkarzinom: Optische Kohärenztomographie (OCT) als Alternative zur Stanzbiopsie
Authors: Schlaak Max
Published: July 2023

Background: Punch biopsy is the gold standard for diagnosis and subtyping of basal cell carcinoma. The aim of this study was to assess whether use of optical coherence tomography (OCT), a non-invasive imaging tool, might avoid the need for biopsy. Methods: In a multicentre, randomised, non-inferiority trial, patients (aged ≥18 years) with an indication for biopsy of a suspected basal cell carcinoma outside the H-zone (high-risk zone) of the face were randomly assigned (1:1) to receive either OCT or punch biopsy (regular care) via a web-based randomisation system. Patients were enrolled from three participating centres in the Netherlands: Maastricht University Medical Centre+, Catharina Hospital Eindhoven, and Zuyderland Medical Centre Heerlen. Stratification factors for randomisation were participating centre and the grade of clinical basal cell carcinoma suspicion (high vs low). The primary endpoint was the proportion of patients free from a recurrent or residual lesion (malignant or premalignant) 12 months after treatment. Modified intention-to-treat and per-protocol analyses were conducted, with a predefined non-inferiority margin of -10%. This trial is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov number, NCT03848078, and is complete. Findings: Between Feb 25, 2019, and Sept 2, 2020, 598 patients were enrolled and randomly assigned to either the regular care group (n=299) or the OCT group (n=299). Data on the primary endpoint were available in 553 patients (n=268 in the regular care group, n=285 in the OCT group). After median follow-up of 12·7 months (IQR 11·2-14·1) in the OCT group and 12·6 months (10·8-14·3) in the regular care group, 253 (94%) of 268 patients in the OCT group and 266 (93%) of 285 patients in the regular care group were free from recurrent or residual lesions (malignant or pre-malignant) 12 months after treatment. According to our modified intention-to-treat analysis, the absolute difference (OCT vs regular care) was 1·07% (95% CI -2·93 to 5·06; one-sided p=0·30), with the lower limit of the 95% CI not exceeding the predefined non-inferiority margin of -10%. Per-protocol analyses led to proportions free from a residual or recurrent lesion (premalignant or malignant) of 95% (250 of 263) in the OCT group and 94% (262 of 278) in the regular care group, and an absolute difference of 0·81% (95% CI -2·98 to 4·60; one-sided p=0·34). Interpretation: OCT-guided diagnosis and treatment of basal cell carcinoma is non-inferior to regular care punch biopsy. Implementation of OCT for diagnosis of basal cell carcinoma could reduce the number of consultations and invasive procedures.
Basalzellkarzinom: Effektivität von Kürettage und Kryochirurgie im Fokus neuer Studie
Authors: Maschke Jan
Published: July 2023

Background: Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the most common cancer in the world and has a rising incidence. Current guidelines for low-risk BCC including superficial BCC (sBCC) recommend several treatment options including destructive treatment methods, such as cryosurgery with or without prior curettage or curettage and electrodesiccation. Curettage only (i.e. without subsequent cryosurgery or electrodesiccation) is a simple and quick destructive treatment method used for many benign skin lesions but has not been sufficiently evaluated for the treatment of sBCCs. Objectives: The objective was to compare the effectiveness of curettage vs. cryosurgery for sBCCs in terms of overall clinical clearance rates after 1 year as well as wound healing times. Methods: A single-centre non-inferiority clinical trial was conducted. Non-facial sBCCs with a diameter of 5-20 mm were randomised to either cryosurgery using one freeze-thaw cycle or curettage. At follow-up visits, treatment areas were evaluated regarding the presence of residual tumour after 3-6 months and recurrence after 1 year. Further, wound healing times were assessed. Results: In total, 228 sBCCs in 97 patients were included in the analysis. At 3-6 months, no residual tumours were seen in any of the treated areas. After 1 year, the clinical clearance rates for curettage and cryosurgery were 95.7% and 100%, respectively (P = 0.060). However, the non-inferiority analysis was inconclusive. Wound healing times were shorter for curettage (4 weeks) compared to cryosurgery (5 weeks; P < 0.0001). Overall, patient satisfaction at 1 year was high.
Prediction model of wind speed using hybrid artificial neural network based on Levenberg-Marquardt algorithm
Authors: Elmejdki Anas , Hati Khalid , Essaouini Hilal
Published: July 2023

In this paper, a new method is developed to model the wind speed data that is considered as a function of seasonal wind variations. A hybrid artificial neural network (HANN) is investigated based on the Weibull distribution model. The presented HANN model predicts wind speed data with seasonal and chronological characteristics similar to real wind data. The design of the wind farm was implemented using MATLAB software. The suggested model has been applied and validated with wind data collected from the site of Tangier-MED in Morocco over two years, 2015 and 2016. The errors in terms of mean absolute percentage error MAPE and root mean square error RMSE are respectively 0.011 and 0.067 in 2015.
Field oriented controlled permanent magnet synchronous motor drive for an electric vehicle
Authors: Dong Chau Si Thien , Le Hoang Huy , Vo Hau Huu
Published: July 2023

The paper describes field oriented control strategy with space vector pulse width modulation technique of permanent magnet synchronous motor drive system for an electric vehicle. At first, mathematical models of the motor and the drive system for electric vehicle are presented. In order to obtain high performance drive and maximum motor torque, field oriented control strategy and space vector pulse width modulation technique method are applied to drive system in next section. Speed controller design utilizing the popular zero-pole elimination approach causes large integral constant time in case of  small rotational damping constant. The desired-transient-response-based approach is employed to overcome the problem. Performance indices include overshoot, undershoot, steady-state speed error, and total harmonic distortion of stator current, are employed to assess the drive systems with two speed controller design methods. Theoretical assumptions are confirmed via simulations and criteria in MATLAB/Simulink environment.
Optimizing stator/rotor pole ARC for torque and economy in electric vehicle switched reluctance motors
Authors: Al-Farhan Saif Kh , Al-Yozbaky Omar Sharaf Al-Deen Yehya
Published: July 2023

Numerous researchers as well as the vehicle industry are paying increasing attention to the switching reluctance motor (SRM) drive. Due to its specialized qualities, SRMs are commonly used in electric vehicle applications. The stator/rotor pole arc of an 8/6 SRM is included in this study's investigation of design principles and performance improvement for poles arcs variation. Several limitations for the stator/rotor pole arc angle are derived for the design principles. These concepts are addressed in the finite element (FE) analysis of SRM topological parameters used in conventional and optimization analysis. The stator/rotor polar arc is tuned for performance using a genetic algorithm (GA) in order to maximize torque and efficiency. An ideal solution is chosen when the optimization results are represented. The proposed method can increase the maximum and average torque with (27.24%, 35.98%, 49.42%, 60.14%), (12.59%, 45.19%, 47.87%, 48.92%) for speeds [900, 1500, 2250, 3000 (rpm)] respectively, As shown by the comparison between the conventional and optimal designs. As well as the efficiency is improved (0.35%, 0.61%, 1.08%, 1.28%) for speeds [900, 1500, 2250, 3000 (rpm)] respectively.
Implementation of a modified carrier-based PWM technique for a cascaded MLI using DSP microcontroller
Authors: Babkrani Youssef , Mourad Gourmaj , Naddami Ahmed , Choukri Karim , Mounir Sanaa Hayani
Published: July 2023

A multi-level converter is a power electronic device desired to generate a desired AC voltage level using several introduced DC voltages, the output voltage of the converter is characterized by a low harmonic content (THD) compared to conventional inverters. The adopted innovative design permits the independent control of PV modules, enabling, in this way, to operate independently and won’t be very affected by intermittence. Additionally in this paper, a new control strategy based on sinusoidal pulse width modulation (SPWM) technique is analyzed for cascaded H-Bridge inverter. In this new technique, separate modified carriers are used for each H-Bridge (HB). Multiple-carrier SPWM is used with the new control SPWM technique. Those carriers are being implemented with diverse sinusoidal dispositions phase disposition (PD), phase opposition and disposition (POD), alternative opposition and disposition (APOD), and with altered frequencies. Experimental results are obtained while using different operating conditions.
Design and analysis of a high-gain dual-input single-output DC-DC converter for hybrid energy systems applications
Authors: Bharathi Botta Venkata Vara Lova Kala , Satish Raavi
Published: July 2023

The high gain converters are one among the proven topologies that are found attractive for industrial and commercial applications. They deal with high power ratings like automobile headlamps, energy backup systems, and fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEV). In literature, most of the topologies were used a single duty ratio. This may not be reliable for high-duty cycle operation because to improve the voltage gain, the components will be increases. This paper proposes the time-sharing concept based on the non-isolated high step-up dc-dc converter. With the parallel-charged and series-discharged inductors, the proposed converter can produce high output voltage gains. The effectiveness of the proposed circuit configuration is verified in MATLAB/Simulink and the results are corroborated by theoretical analysis.
Optimization of switching losses of the Weinberg converter
Authors: Naprienko Anastasiia S. , Shtein Dmitry А.
Published: July 2023

DC-DC converters are widely used in hybrid power supply systems. A buffer source of electrical energy (most often a battery bank) and its charging and discharging devices are integral parts of such systems. In systems where the battery bank voltage is less than the DC-bus voltage and galvanic isolation is not required, the Weinberg converter is widely used as a discharge device, for example, in spacecraft power supply systems. The current trend in the development of hybrid power supply systems is to increase the power density of the system. Increasing the operating frequency is the simplest and most effective way to increase the power density of converter. A differential characteristic of this converter is the zero-current switching (ZCS) of transistors, which occurs due to the influence of the leakage inductance of coupled-inductors and the leakage inductance of the transformer. The paper presents an analysis of the influence of leakage inductances on the operation of the converter and a method of determining a level of turn on switching losses of transistors, which allows to ensure the necessary level of efficiency of the converter. The results of simulation modeling of the converter confirm the effectiveness of this method.
Performance enhancement of distance relay in presence of unified power flow controller
Authors: Al-Kaoaz Hiba Nadhim A. , Alsammak Ahmed Nasser B.
Published: July 2023

The characteristics of the distance relay are devised based on online and fault impedance. The relay uses fault information to react to the expected state; however, integrating the grid with a unified power flow controller (UPFC) might stop the relay from fault-triggered operations, requiring altered relay characteristics. Building relay tripping parameters are among the critical challenges that must be addressed for transmission line distance relays because current transmission networks face higher stress regarding power system operation. Furthermore, the use of flexible AC transmission systems (FACTS) instruments at the transmission level adversely affects distance relay performance due to impedance differences. The UPFC is among the essential FACTS instruments; it comprises shunt and series converters to alter the apparent relay impedance; hence, it was considered for this study, where a test system during fault was assessed to demonstrate the output of the distance relay before and after using the UPFC. MATLAB was used to build scenarios demonstrating the effect of a UPFC located in the transmission line's midsection or end or not using the UPFC. This research offers an analytical technique to determine the probable effects of UPFC on distance relay characteristics. The outcomes provide new relay characteristics for several fault resistances and locations for fault-specific impedance trajectory reactions.
Implementation smart charging technique using particle swarm optimization to achieve best performance charger
Authors: Sudiharto Indhana , Murdianto Farid Dwi , Isnani Lavia
Published: July 2023

These days, there are an increasing number of electronic devices that use batteries as their energy source, often known as portable electronic devices. However, the battery may run out of energy and a recharging process is required to keep the electronic device functional. A charger that is in accordance with the battery specifications is required to complete the charging process. Incompatible chargers can overcharge batteries and shorten their lifetime. Since there are many different types of electronic devices, many different chargers are required, especially since most chargers on the market are static and can only be used with one kind of electronic device. This will increase the costs that customers must pay, especially those who have many types of electronic devices. As a result, this research will create a smart charger using the PSO algorithm that can be used to complete the charging process on all types of portable electronic devices. To test smart chargers, five different battery types from electronic devices with different specifications are used. From the test result, the smart charger can charge five different types of battery loads with various specifications with 100% accuracy at a speed that takes 50.4 seconds to reach a steady state.
Optimal design of BiCMOS second generation current conveyor using the genetic algorithm
Authors: Asmae El Beqal , Bachir Benhala , Izeddine Zorkani
Published: July 2023

This article presents an innovative implementation of the plus-type second-generation current conveyor (CCII+) using BiCMOS technology, which combines the benefits of bipolar and CMOS technologies. The optimization problem of minimizing the X-port input resistance and maximizing the current cut-off frequency value was solved using genetic algorithm (GA). The proposed approach allows the optimization of the BiCMOS CCII+ to achieve better performance compared to previous designs. As a practical application, a second-order band-pass filter using the optimized BiCMOS CCII+ was successfully realized. The performance of the proposed design was evaluated using SPICE simulations and compared with previously published works. This study shows that the BiCMOS CCII+ can be effectively optimized using GA to improve its performance, which has potential applications in various analog and mixed-signal circuits.
Active disturbance rejection control of an islanded PV/wind/battery microgrid with power quality enhancement by SAPF
Authors: Oubail Youssef , Aboudrar Imad , El hafydy Mohamed , Rachid Elmoutawakil Alaoui My , Lahoussine Elmahni
Published: July 2023

The focus in this study is on an islanded microgrid based on hybrid renewable energy sources and storage systems. This latter is considered as an essential element for all off-grid autonomous systems to offer a reliable and stable operation. The proposed system is composed of a photovoltaic system, a wind power system based on a synchronous generator and a storage system. The proposed control strategy is intended to control, through the load side converter (LSC), the AC bus voltage in terms of amplitude and frequency under different operating conditions, and to obtain, through the bi-directional battery side converter (BSC), a better regulation between the available production and the global load demand. The proposed strategy also contributes to the power quality improvement in the AC bus by controlling the PV inverter to work as a shunt active power filter to provide the required harmonic current component to non-linear loads. A new robust control strategy for internal current and voltage control loops is proposed in this research paper, it’s the active disturbance rejection control (ADRC) and it is based on the extended state observer which allows to estimate all disturbances affecting the control, such as modeling errors and parameter variations.
A novel multi-port SEPIC converter with grid-tie system for hybrid power generation
Authors: Jayaprakash Supriya , Siddamallaiah Rajashekar Jangam
Published: July 2023

As the load demand continues to rise on a daily basis, there will be an increased requirement for sources of renewable energy.  When compared to the building of an entire power system, the cost of distributed generation, also known as DG, is significantly lower, which makes it a useful tool for fulfilling the demand for electricity. However, these DG are built utilizing renewable energy, which by their very nature is intermittent in its output. As a result, hybrid power generation, which draws power from a variety of sources, is employed to meet the demand for electricity. There are many multiport converters available but they use more number of components which causes complexity and increase in size. And as there are many devices there are possibility stability in the power generation may take time. A brand-new multi-port single ended primary inductor converter (MP-SEPIC), sometimes known as an MP-SEPIC, is proposed in this article. Connecting the photovoltaic (PV), wind, and fuel cell systems is done in order to evaluate the performance of the MP-SEPIC converter. A comparison is made between the standard multi-port boost converter and the suggested MP-SEPIC, the MATLAB simulation is carried out for the purpose of validating the proposed system.
Artificial neural network for maximum power point tracking used in solar photovoltaic system
Authors: Sahu Jayanta Kumar , Panda Babita , Patra Jyoti Prasad
Published: July 2023

Nowadays, non-conventional energy sources like solar, wind, geothermal, and small hydro play a vital role in generating electricity. Among these, solar energy is utilized in urban and rural areas. When the sunlight falls on the solar plate, the PV cell produces charge carriers that produce an electric current. A photo voltaic cell is used when it works at the maximum power point. Traditional maximum power point tracking (MPPT) techniques are easier to structure and apply but perform worse than AI-based systems. The main objective of this paper is to develop an intelligent system to determine the maximum power point using artificial neural networks. This system uses the radial basis function network (RBFN) architecture to improve MPPT control for PV systems. The response characteristics of the photo-voltaic array are non-linear due to insolation, temperature variation, the incident light angle, and the solar cell's surface condition. Hence, this must be checked to develop the system's most significant amount of power. The MPPT controller's response can be recycled to monitor the DC-DC boost converters for maximum efficiency.
A modified differential evolution algorithm for frequency management of interconnected hybrid renewable system
Authors: Mishra Debayani , Maharana Manoj Kumar , Kar Manoj Kumar , Nayak Anurekha
Published: July 2023

In recent decades, the insufficiency in power production has led to the incorporation of renewable energy sources into microgrid systems. However, ambiguity in the generation of renewable sources and load variation impacts on the system frequency influencing the stable operation of microgrid system. To augment the stable operation of the system an intelligent controller is required for continuous electric power. The implementation of a modified differential evolution (MDE)-based cascaded PIDFN controller using ITAE is proposed in this work. In order to demonstrate the robustness and efficacy of the proposed MDE optimization technique is compared with DE, TLBO, IWO and PSO.MDE-based cascaded PIDFN controller is implemented for governing the frequency in two-area interconnected microgrid system. The system is substantiated over load perturbations, system uncertainties, communication delay and real time data of solar irradiance and wind speed and action of UPFC in MATLAB®/SIMULINK environment.