bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Feedforward Proportional Integral Resonant controller-based current ripple reduction in CL 3 C resonant DC-DC converter
Authors: Rajalakshmi M , Wahab Razia Sultana 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

The LLC(Inductor-Inductor-Capacitor) DC-DC resonant converter is presently employed for EV charging with high power handling capacity and compact size. The technological advancement urges the need for bidirectional power flow for V2X operation to boost the charging to the next level. The CL3C converter is the ideal choice for that with high power density with Zero voltage and current switching. Apart from that, the high-frequency operation increases the higher order current ripple, which increases the battery temperature and reduces the battery life. As per standard IEC 60086, the low-frequency current ripple should be less than 5% to recuperate the battery life. The Feedforward Proportional Integral Resonant (FF-PIR) controller gives better ripple reduction and improves the converter performance along with better battery life. The results show that the controller improves the efficiency of the converter by reducing the ripple content in the current and enhancing the output voltage for the same input voltage. The FF-PIR controller is best suited for resonant converters to enhance battery charging by increasing the efficacy of the converter. The optimal design of the converter and the tuning of the FF-PIR controller is done, and the performance of the controller with the plant is analyzed. The controller robustness is also addressed for the variation in the frequency.
A Novel Index-Organized Storage Model for Hybrid DRAM-PM Main Memory Database Systems
Authors: Zhang Qian , Gong Xueqing , Khan Hassan Ali , Wei Jianhao , Ren Yiyang 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Large-scale data-intensive applications need massive real-time data processing.Recent hybrid DRAM-PM main memory database systems provide an effective approach by persisting data to persistent memory (PM) in an append-based manner for efficient storage while maintaining the primary database copy in DRAM for high throughput rates.However, they can not achieve high performance under a hybrid workload because they are unaware of the impact of pointer chasing.In this work, we investigate the impact of chasing pointers on modern main memory database systems to eliminate this bottleneck.We propose Index-Organized storage model that supports efficient reads and updates.We combine two techniques, i.e., cacheline-aligned node layout and cache prefetching, to accelerate pointer chasing, reducing memory access latency. We present four optimizations, i.e., pending versions, fine-grained memory management, Index-SSN, and cacheline-aligned writes, for supporting efficient transaction processing and fast logging.We implement our proposed storage model based on an open-sourced main memory database system.We extensively evaluate performance on a 20-core system featuring Intel Optane DC Persistent Memory Modules. Our experiments reveal that the Index-Organized approach achieves up to 3$\times$ speedup compared to traditional storage models (row-store, column-store, and row+column).
Construction and Validation of a Convenient Death Prediction Model for Pediatric Pneumonia Patients in Intensive Care Units
Authors: Wu Chuan-Fei , Cheng Xue-Li , Bian Xiao-Tian , Jiang Guo-Cheng , Liu Mei-Tong 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Background: Pneumonia is one of the major diseases threatening the safety of children's lives; however, there are currently few convenient tools available to predict the death risk of children with pneumonia. We explored the risk factors for mortality in pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) patients with pneumonia and developed and validated a mortality risk prediction model.
Methods: A research cohort was established using a public database from a pediatric intensive care unit, including data from 467 cases. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were conducted to identify independent risk factors for mortality in pneumonia patients, and a prediction model was constructed based on these risk levels, resulting in a nomogram.
Results: 1. A total of 351 cases were included for modeling, with 69 in-hospital deaths and 282 in-hospital survivors identified as outcomes. 2. The analysis identified independent risk factors for mortality in pneumonia patients as age in months, white blood cell count, CRP, potassium ion concentration, total bilirubin and application of glucocorticoids. 3. The area under the curve (AUC) for the prediction model was 0.765 (95% CI: 0.705-0.825), with a sensitivity of 0.813 and specificity of 0.578; internal validation demonstrated that the model has good consistency.
Conclusion: A convenient model for predicting the mortality risk of children with pneumonia in PICU has been developed, showing a reasonable level of accuracy.
Revolutionizing Chinese medicine granule placebo with a machine learning four-color model
Authors: Teng Tingting , Zhang Jingze , Miao Peiqi , Liang Lipeng , Song Xinbo , Liu Dailin , Zhang Junhua 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

With the development of new Chinese medicines and the need for clinical double-blind experiments, the use of placebos in Chinese medicine is becoming increasingly important. However, due to the diverse colors and complex color gamut of these particles, existing simulation methods rely on manual comparison and color mixing, leading to high subjectivity and errors. This study addresses this issue by developing a prediction model to accurately simulate the colors of Chinese medicine granules. In this study, 52 commercially available herbal particles were collected. And more than 320 simulated granules were prepared using fillers and four pigments (lemon yellow, carmine, indigo and caramel colors). Their RGB colors were collected using visible light imaging. A granule color prediction model was constructed by machine learning. First, the best clustering model was obtained by optimising the k-value of the Kmeans model. Subsequently, multiple regression models, including Gradient Boosting Regression (GBR), Support Vector Regression (SVR), and Random Forest, were evaluated through network search and cross-validation methods. Among these models, the average R² of the random forest model reached 0.9249, outperforming other models. The prediction model accurately simulated the color of Chinese medicine granules, with an average color difference (ΔE) of 2.7734 and a high RGB value cosine similarity of 0.9999, alongside a 0.9366 similarity in artificial color scoring. This study introduces an innovative approach for the rapid and accurate prediction of granule colors, facilitating the development of clinically applicable placebos in traditional Chinese medicine.
Advancing Robotic Swarms with Blockchain Technology: A Dynamic Two-Factor Authentication Consensus Framework
Authors: Barrion Marck Herzon , Bandala Argel , Maningo Jose Martin , Dadios Elmer , Naguib Raouf 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Swarm robotics offers significant advantages by enhancing adaptability, scalability, and reliability. These systems excel in disaster response, environmental monitoring, and search and rescue operations, ensuring functionality despite the failure of individual robots. However, real-world deployment of swarm robotics is hindered by major communication security risks and concerns, making rigorous measures vital to prevent malicious attacks from compromising system integrity and effectiveness. Blockchain technology enhances data integrity and trust. This study introduces a robust Two-Factor Blockchain Consensus (2-FBC) framework, combining off-chain peer verification with an on-chain consensus mechanism. The framework dynamically adjusts peer similarity and trust scores, enabling reliable, decentralized consensus amidst the presence of Byzantine faults. With swarm robotic security research still in its infancy, this work aims to fill a fundamental gap, providing a solution to swarm vulnerabilities. Experimental evaluations using E-puck robots in the ARGoS simulator demonstrate the framework's effectiveness. The 2-FBC approach achieved a mean absolute error of 2.52% in scalability tests, improved accuracy by 19.62% in diverse and challenging environments, and maintained a low error rate of 2.32% against Byzantine attacks. Resource efficiency was confirmed through practical CPU and RAM usage metrics, with the blockchain ledger scaling predictably based on swarm size, ensuring compatibility with the storage capacities of the robots. The results validate the framework’s efficiency, establishing a solid foundation for new deployment opportunities in potentially adversarial environments.
Woody Plant Diversity influences the Purification Efficiency of Simulated Vertical Flow Constructed Wetlands
Authors: Zhu Hong , Wang Yuyang , Shi Xiaodeng , Gu Jiacheng , Zhang Xiaomian , Fang Yaoyao , Zhang Guihua , Yue Chunlei 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

In this study, an experimental system was conducted with 44 microcosms simulating vertical constructed wetlands (CWs), to explore the effect of woody plant species diversity on the purification efficiencies of CWs, and provide a scientific basis for assembling plant communities in CWs. Four woody species, Ligustrum obtusifolium, Hibiscus mutabilis, Hibiscus syriacus and Nerium oleander, were selected to set up species richness levels (1, 2, 4 species) and 11species compositions. The results showed that, the removal efficiency of TN, NH4+-N, TP and TOC in the CWs improved, with woody plant species richness increasing. The microcosms with four-species mixture had significantly higher removal rates of TN, NH4+-N, TP, and TOC, compared with the microcosms with monocultures. The woody plant species compositions had also impact on the pollutant removal capability of microcosms. The mixture of L. obtusifolium × H. mutabilis × H. syriacus × N. oleander exhibited the best purification effect for TN and NH4+-N, while the monoculture of N. oleander performed best for TP and TOC removal. The presence of N. oleander had a significant positive effect on the removal of pollutants in CWs.
A French Foreign Language Lesson for Children with German as a Second Language in Virtual Reality: A Case Study
Authors: Keller Thomas , Bolliger Karin , Massie Britta 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Students with German as a second language (GSL students) have to cope with a huge volume of language learning. This is increasingly evident in early foreign language lessons in English or French. As a result, GSL students are faced with the challenge of having to learn another foreign language in a foreign language.
As part of this study, a virtual learning unit (VRLU) for communicating in French for children with German as a second language (GSL) was developed using the teaching book "dis donc!" and tested with five GSL children in a sixth grade class. It was investigated how the VRLU affects motivation and to what extent it provides the GSL students with low-threshold access to communication.
The research paradigm for this study is based on "Design Science Research". It combines current language learning and behavioral theories as well as design aspects relating to virtual reality. Diagnostic methods such as direct behavioral observation, flow questionnaires and various interviews were used in four field tests.
It was shown that the VRLU developed specifically for the GSL students had a positive effect on the motivation of the students as well as on the confident and clear speaking of the foreign language French. Various scaffolds (aids) used in the VRLU proved to be effective. The most popular scaffolds among the GSL learners were the explanations in their first language (L1), the modelled repetitions and superimposed dialog boxes.
On the one hand, the data from this study shows the great potential of VRLU for the tailored foreign language acquisition of GSL students. On the other hand, the study also clearly showed that the development of VRLU is a multidisciplinary and time-consuming challenge.
Flow Prediction in Sound-Based Uroflowmetry: A Comprehensive Study
Authors: Alvarez Marcos Lazaro , Arjona Laura , Jojoa-Acosta Mario , Bahillo Alfonso 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Sound-based uroflowmetry (SU) offers a non-invasive alternative to traditional uroflowmetry (UF) for evaluating lower urinary tract dysfunctions, enabling home-based testing and reducing the need for clinic visits. This study compares SU and UF in estimating urine flow rate and voided volume in 50 male volunteers (aged 18–60), with UF results from a Minze uroflowmeter as the reference standard. Audio signals recorded during voiding were segmented and machine learning algorithms (gradient boosting, random forest, and support vector machine) estimated flow parameters from three devices: Ultramic384k, Mi A1 smartphone, and Oppo smartwatch. The mean absolute errors (MAE) for flow rate estimation were 2.55, 2.49 and 2.86 ml/s, with R² values of 84%, 83%, and 79%, respectively. Analysis of the Ultramic384k’s frequency range showed that the 0–8 kHz band contained 83% of significant components, suggesting higher sampling frequencies are unnecessary. A 1000 ms segment size was optimal for balancing computational efficiency and accuracy. Lin’s concordance coefficients for urine flow and voided volume using the smartwatch (0–8 kHz, 1000 ms) were 0.9 and 0.85, respectively, demonstrating that SU is a reliable, cost-effective alternative to UF for estimating key uroflowmetry parameters, with added patient convenience.
COVID-19 and the Online Gaze: Transferring Trauma Informed Practices Online
Authors: Brown Bethany L. Van , Crocetto Johanna 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

As faculty and students continue to acclimate learning in a post-COVID world, a better understanding of student and faculty experiences during COVID can help inform successful online pedagogies for the future. One emergent debate is whether faculty should require students to turn on their video cameras in a synchronous class as a way of taking attendance and measuring engagement. Some say requiring cameras during class is contrary trauma-informed teaching practices. Others argue that asking students to turn their cameras on is reasonable request. Through an online survey, this exploratory study invited full-time undergraduate students to respond to closed- and open-ended questions regarding their experiences with synchronous classes and video camera use during the pandemic. Findings point to a concept we name the “Online Gaze,” which illustrates power imbalances between students and instructors that can emerge during online synchronous classes. The authors argue that the online gaze warrants the need for trauma-informed practices to be transferred to online classes.
Clinical outcomes of medial collateral ligament reconstruction using a gracilis tendon: A retrospective study
Authors: Sanada Takaki , Iwaso Hiroshi , Honda Eisaburo , Sameshima Shin , Goto Kazumi , Inagawa Miyu , Ishida Yutaro , Kuzuhara Ryota , Matsuo Koji 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Purpose: Use of a gracilis tendon in medial collateral ligament (MCL) reconstruction has not been reported widely yet. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the clinical outcomes of MCL reconstruction using a gracilis tendon.
Methods: Primary superficial medial collateral ligament (sMCL) reconstruction was performed using a gracilis tendon in 10 knees in 10 athletes, involving three isolated MCL injuries, four MCL and anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries, and three MCL and posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) injuries cases. Return-to-play, clinical outcome, and re-injury incidence were investigated retrospectively.
Results: All athletes returned to their previous sports level. The mean times of return-to-sports in the cases of isolated MCL reconstruction, concomitant ACL reconstruction, and concomitant PCL reconstruction were 6.2, 9.8, and 11.7 months, respectively. According to the valgus stress test, medial joint gapping improved from 3.5 mm preoperatively to 0.2 mm at 1 year postoperatively. Graft rupture occurred in 10% (1/10) of cases.
Conclusions: MCL reconstruction using a gracilis tendon provided reliable stability and clinical outcomes. Thus, MCL reconstruction using a gracilis tendon is widely indicated for not only multiple ligament injury cases but also isolated MCL injury cases.
A Prospective Comparative Evaluation of Automatic Trial Matching Tools in a Molecular Tumor Board
Authors: GUEGUEN Lilia , OLGIATI Louise , BRUTTI-MAIRESSE Clément , SANS Alric , TEXIER Vincent LE , VERLINGUE Loic 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Background
Numerous publicly available automatic trial matching tools help patients and their caregivers searching all the possible clinical trials related to certain health conditions. While this technology can enhance access to therapeutic innovations, frequent errors may expose to over-solicitation and disappointment. This study evaluates the performance of these tools.
Methods
We screened publicly available trials matching tools and performed a non-interventional prospective evaluation on sequential patients at the Centre Leon Berard’s Molecular Tumor Board. We manually reviewed the trial’s selection criteria and the patient's recruitment status to confirm the eligibility or not. We computed standard classification metrics: precision and recall, and search engine-specific metrics: Average Precision (AP@k) and Normalised Discounted Cumulative Gain (NDCG@k), for the first 3 (@3) clinical trials returned.
Results
Between April 3 and June 12, 2024, we systematically analysed 157 patients affected by various types of metastatic cancers with 4 clinical trial matching tools from the 19 screened: Klineo and ScreenAct from France, Trialing from Spain, and DigitalECMT from the United Kingdom. Each patient had 2.19 trials proposed on average, and 38% had no trials suggested. We evaluated 2164 patients-trials pairs, validating 37.9% on the selection criteria and 84.5% on patients recruitment status. The mean performances of the tools were precision = 0.33 (median = 0.20), recall = 0.32 (median = 0.25), AP@3 = 0.45 (median = 0.50), and NDCG@3 = 0.34 (median = 0.30). Klineo had significantly better performance than the 3 other tools. The most frequent error across all tools concerned the type of gene variants requested by the selection criteria. Using all the tools, we observed that 26% of patients without clinical trials at CLB could have been oriented to other sites.
Conclusion
In their current form, most publicly available automatic clinical trial matching tools in oncology may expose patients to erroneous orientations. Nevertheless, they have the potential to increase the access to clinical trials by screening multiple investigator sites.
Vibration analysis of running wheel for straddle monorail vehicles
Authors: Zengchuang Zhao , Pingbo Wu , Lihui Ren 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

This article is based on the tire six component force test and wheel hub fatigue test of a certain type of straddle monorail vehicle, and analyzes the reasons for the abnormal phenomenon of the vehicle's wheel hub. Firstly, the vehicle connecting rod was calibrated in the laboratory to obtain the "force strain" coefficient of the connecting rod under tension and compression conditions. The accuracy of this calibration was verified by comparing it with the experimental results; Subsequently, the dynamic displacement of the vehicle and the strain of the connecting rod were obtained by installing displacement sensors at different positions, and the six component force data of the tire was obtained; Finally, based on the IIW standard, the fatigue strength of the wheel hub under AW0 and AW3 operating conditions was evaluated, and the dynamic stress of the wheel hub during emergency braking, the dominant frequency of the dynamic stress of the wheel hub, and the influence of polygonal wear on the dynamic stress of the wheel hub were analyzed. The results show that the maximum dynamic loads of the vertical force of the running wheel, the lateral force of the guide wheel, and the lateral force of the stabilizing wheel are all within the limit load range, and there is a certain safety margin to ensure safe operation; Under the IIW standard, there are 1 point and 3 points on the wheel hub under AW0 and AW3 working conditions that do not meet the fatigue strength criterion requirements, and there are no abnormalities in the other indicators; During emergency braking, there was no abnormal change in the dynamic stress of the wheel hub, and the polygonal wear of the tire shoulder had little effect on the dynamic stress of the wheel hub. This explains the abnormal phenomenon of the vehicle's wheel hub and provides an important reference for subsequent wheel hub design.
Meta-analysis of Comprehensive Prognostic Evaluation in Patients with Atrial FibrillationComplicated by Heart Failure after Catheter Ablation
Authors: Zhang Xiaoting , Wei Meng , Xue Pengjie , Tang Baopeng 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Atrial fibrillation (AF) and heart failure (HF) often coexist, posing increased risks of HF events, rehospitalization, mortality, and stroke. While antiarrhythmic drugs have limitations, catheter ablation (CA) has emerged as a preferred rhythm control treatment for AF, yet its clinical outcomes remain inconclusive. Previous meta-analyses have predominantly included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) or cohort studies with limited sample sizes and outcome measures, which do not comprehensively and accurately reflect the clinical prognosis of patients with AF and HF following CA. However, the high prevalence of AF and HF comorbidity and the significant economic burden it imposes underscore the importance of focusing on the clinical prognosis of these patients. This meta-analysis systematically includes high-quality RCTs and cohort studies in evidence-based medicine, comprising a total of 34 studies and 777,668 patients.Meta-analysis revealed that CA significantly reduced the risk of HF events (RR, 0.63; 95% CI, 0.51–0.77), cardiovascular (CV) mortality (RR, 0.54; 95% CI, 0.45–0.66), CV hospitalization (RR, 0.81; 95% CI, 0.71–0.93), all-cause mortality (RR, 0.57; 95% CI, 0.46–0.70), all-cause rehospitalization (RR, 0.87; 95% CI, 0.76–0.996),AF recurrence (RR, 0.45; 95% CI, 0.36–0.57), and stroke (RR, 0.69; 95% CI, 0.57–0.83) when compared to NCA. CA demonstrated superior benefits in improving outcomes for patients with AF and HF, including HF events, mortality, rehospitalization, AF recurrence and incidence of stroke. Additionally, CA shows similar therapeutic effects in improving cardiac structure, cardiopulmonary function, and quality of life.These findings support the efficacy of CA in managing AF and HF.