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A graphical method developed for the construction of structure contours for inclined planar surfaces has been extended to curved or folded surfaces with cylindrical geometries and horizontal axes. These structure contours can be used to constrain the outcrop trace of a folded contact on a geological map. The extended method requires, as a minimum, a field of orientation data and the map position of a single elevation on the contact under investigation. The method utilises orientation data collected on and around a partially mapped trace of a folded contact to constrain the outcrop trace throughout a geological map. The method uses a vertical cross-section that is parallel to the profile plane of any folds present. Crest, trough and hinge points identified in the cross-section can be projected on to the geological map in their correct positions and elevations. Similarly, structure contours on fold axial surfaces can be projected on to the geological map and the contours used to locate the axial traces of cylindrical folds with horizontal axes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents a design for five conventional superconducting magnet structures to meet the high magnetic load demand of superconducting motors while reducing the superconducting tapes consumption. A 45° highest efficiency line is proposed based on the graphical method, and the magnet structure is optimized by combining finite element and PSO algorithms. Additionally, a correlation function is established using the vertical magnetic field to estimate the critical current, describing the nonlinear relationship between the two. The optimization method can maintain the airgap flux density waveform before and after optimization, reduce tapes consumption and perpendicular field on the tapes, refine the field distribution, and improve the safety margin of superconducting coils. The magnet design scheme can be selected with low tape consumption or high safety margin according to actual demand. This research can be used to optimize the electromagnetic design of superconducting electric motors, as well as other superconducting magnet applications, such as superconducting magnetic bearings, nuclear magnetic resonance, and large-scale scientific installations for high-energy physics. The aim is to achieve the exhaustive use of superconducting tapes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Clinicians often suspect that a treatment effect can vary across individuals. However, they usually lack "evidence-based" guidance regarding potential heterogeneity of treatment effects (HTE). Potentially actionable HTE is rarely discovered in clinical trials and is widely believed (or rationalized) by researchers to be rare. Conventional statistical methods to test for possible HTE are extremely conservative and tend to reinforce this belief. In truth, though, there is no realistic way to know whether a common, or average, effect estimated from a clinical trial is relevant for all, or even most, patients. This absence of evidence, misinterpreted as evidence of absence, may be resulting in sub-optimal treatment for many individuals. We first summarize the historical context in which current statistical methods for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were developed, focusing on the conceptual and technical limitations that shaped, and restricted, these methods. In particular, we explain how the common-effect assumption came to be virtually unchallenged. Second, we propose a simple graphical method for exploratory data analysis that can provide useful visual evidence of possible HTE. The basic approach is to display the complete distribution of outcome data rather than relying uncritically on simple summary statistics. Modern graphical methods, unavailable when statistical methods were initially formulated a century ago, now render fine-grained interrogation of the data feasible. We propose comparing observed treatment-group data to "pseudo data" engineered to mimic that which would be expected under a particular HTE model, such as the common-effect model. A clear discrepancy between the distributions of the common-effect pseudo data and the actual treatment-effect data provides prima facie evidence of HTE to motivate additional confirmatory investigation. Artificial data are used to illustrate implications of ignoring heterogeneity in practice and how the graphical method can be useful. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The pinch analysis technique circumvents the drawbacks of local optima in the design of production processes and determines energy targets from a systemic design perspective. It has now evolved into a comprehensive methodology for process industry integration. As research deepens in traditional industrial domains, the exploration of applications in emerging fields is gradually expanding. However, solely relying on the analysis and summarization within a singular domain is insufficient for driving broader applications across diverse fields. Therefore, this paper discusses the pinch analysis techniques across various fields, from energy exchange networks to mass transfer networks. By examining their technical principles and categorizing method types, different technologies are horizontally compared, and their key characteristics are revealed. Subsequently, this paper explores future development directions and imminent challenges of the pinch analysis technique in power systems, aiming to offer new perspectives for expansion and to address existing issues such as load balance analysis, planning rationality, and reliability assessment in power systems. • Pinch analysis methods in various fields are analyzed comprehensively. • Analogous graphic methods and numerical methods of pinch analysis are compared across different fields respectively. • The underlying mathematical structure of pinch analysis techniques and principle of graphical methodology are revealed. • The prospects and a novel approach to applying pinch analysis in power systems are proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The optimal time for total knee arthroplasty (TKA) requires a balance between patient disability and health state to minimize complications. While chronological age has not been shown to be predictive of complications in elective surgical patients, there is a point beyond which even optimized elderly patients would be at increased risk for complications. The purpose of this study was to examine the impact of chronological age on complications following primary TKA. Using an administrative database, the records of 2,129,191 patients undergoing elective unilateral TKA between 2006 and 2021 were reviewed. The primary outcomes of interest were cardiac and pulmonary complications, and their relationship to the Charlson-Deyo Comorbidity Index (CDI) and chronological age. Secondary outcomes included risk of renal, neurologic, infection, and intensive care utilization postoperatively. The results were analyzed using a graphical method. The impact of chronological age as a modifier of overall risk for complications was modeled as a continuous variable. An age cutoff threshold of 80 years was also assigned for clinical convenience. The risk of complications correlated more closely to the CDI (odds ratio (OR) 1.37 to 2.1) than chronological age (OR 1.0 to 1.1) across the various complications [Table 1. However, beyond age 80 years, the risks of cardiac, pulmonary, renal, and cerebrovascular complications were significantly increased for all CDI categories (OR 1.73 to 3.40) compared to patients below age 80 years [Table 2] [Figures 1A and 1B]. Chronologic age can impact the risk of complications even in well-optimized elderly patients undergoing primary TKA. As arthroplasty continues to transition to outpatient settings and inpatient denials increase, these results can help patients, physicians, and payors mitigate risk while optimizing the allocation of resources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to develop and validate a pain assessment scale for guinea pigs to be performed in clinics by veterinarians. The scale was established using pre-existing pain scales from other species and was based on signs expressed by guinea pigs in pain already identified in the literature. The scale consists of 14 descriptors grouped into 4 categories: appearance, functional, physiological, and behavioral. Each item on the scale was assigned a score based on the observation and handling of the animals. The total score obtained ranged from 0 to 26, with more intense pain scoring higher. Fifty-eight adult guinea pigs presenting at the authors' Teaching Hospital between March 2021 and November 2022 were assessed. Guinea pigs were filmed during their consultation and an information sheet was completed. The information sheet provided details on the animals' appetite, fecal production, and behavior at home. The videos and corresponding information sheets were then reviewed to attribute a pain score to each animal. The pain scores were measured twice by a same observer 1 month apart to assess repeatability and by a second observer to assess reproducibility. The validity was assessed by correlating the pain scores given by the novel scale with scores using a numerical rating scale (NRS) as a gold standard method. The initial Cronbach's alpha obtained was 0.77, which was satisfactory. However, it highlighted that items concerning pruritus and spasmodic movements should be deleted to strengthen internal consistency. Then, Lin's coefficient and Bland and Altman's graphical method highlighted that the scale had an almost strong repeatability and intra-operator reproducibility. Moreover, the correlation between pain intensities obtained with the novel scale and the scores given using NRS was correct (Kappa = 0.72). The specificity was 87.5%, but the sensitivity of the scale was 52.0%. Each item's repeatability and reproducibility were assessed to identify items that would benefit from added clarification. Our work is the first step in establishing a pain scale in guinea pigs. However, it should not yet be used in a clinical context. Indeed, the scale was not good at detecting pain when a guinea pig was actually painful. Further studies, including improvement of certain items and testing a larger sample of animals, are ongoing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A comprehensive protocol to evaluate voice quality can support a full characterisation of voice disorders and be used to plan voice interventions. The purpose of this study was to develop and validate a standardised protocol for voice assessment, contributing with a comprehensive and valuable tool for clinician practice and research. The initial structure and content of the protocol was based on an extensive literature review of existing voice assessment tools. The content validity was then assessed by a panel of voice specialist, using a modified Bland and Altman graphical method and the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC). A group of participants with vocal pathology was finally assessed by two voice specialists on the same day (inter-rater reliability), and, on a second day, by a single evaluator (intra-rater reliability). Inter and intra-reliability were evaluated through Cohen's kappa (k) for nominal variables, and Spearman's Correlation Coefficient (ρ) for quantitative and ordinal variables. The Bland and Altman analysis, revealed a reasonable agreement between the experts and the ICC values were lower than expected, but the confidence intervals were very wide. The intra-rater reliability of the protocol's nominal variables was almost perfect, with a mean k of 0.977; inter-rater reliability of nominal variables was also almost perfect, with a mean k of 0.893. The ordinal and quantitative variables revealed a very good to excellent relationship, with a mean ρ of 0.912. Evidence of content validity, high intra and inter-rater reliability of a standardised protocol for voice assessment, have been shown. This protocol can be used to assess and collect data from patients, to train voice specialists and to develop reference voice databases. It has been designed to serve voice experts with diverse backgrounds and assessment needs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Inspiration on the heterogeneous nature of water adsorption in bentonites. • Noval (continuum) SWRC model considering adsorption and capillarity. • New model contains only 5 parameters, with high efficiency in parameter estimation. • A graphical method was suggested to estimate maximum adsorption capacity. Understanding soil–water retention behavior is a longstanding topic. Water retained in soils can be decomposed into adsorptive and capillary components, controlled by different physicochemical mechanisms. The capillary water retention was frequently discussed in literatures, but the adsorption role was rarely considered, especially for high active clays (e.g., bentonite). In this study, two novel equations for quantifying adsorptive and capillary water retentions are proposed, generating a twofold model to continuously simulate soil–water retention behavior of bentonites. Only 5 parameters, i.e., the maximum adsorption capacity, characteristic adsorptive and capillary suctions, and uniformities of adsorptive and capillary pores, are defined with clear physical meanings. A graphical method was suggested to firstly determine the maximum adsorption capacity, and the remaining parameters are efficiently estimated by non-linear curve fitting. The water retention data for various bentonites, representing a variety of hydration conditions, initial compactness, montmorillonite content and suction range, are used to assess the model performance. The predictions agree well with the measured total, adsorptive and capillary water contents of a Wyoming bentonite, and the fitting curves also match well with test data for other bentonites over the full suction range. Adsorption parameters are distributed within a narrow range, while the characteristic capillary suction is also distributed within a limited range under constant volume condition. The proposed model allows reasonable predictions about the capillary onset and the transition from adsorption to capillarity, revealing obvious superiority by comparison with other hybrid models. This work offers a new pathway to quantitively assess the soil–water retention curve of high active clays. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the acceleration of urbanization, urban traffic congestion is becoming more and more serious, in which the timing of signal lights for regional traffic optimization is particularly important. Since existing signal lights-based traffic optimization technologies, especially green wave, do not take the regional traffic follow into consideration, therefore not being efficient. Therefore, we propose Adaptive Signal Light Timing for Regional Traffic Optimization based on Graph Convolutional Network Empowered Traffic Forecasting. First, we propose a multi-intersection traffic flow prediction model, namely, A-GCN + with an improved prediction accuracy of 6.3%, which utilizes the attention-aggregated graph convolutional neural networks (A-GCN) and temporal convolutional networks (TCN) to extract spatial and temporal features of the traffic flow. Second, we propose a dynamic regional traffic signal coordination optimization control method, which utilizes the predicted intersection approach traffic flow from A-GCN + and combines it with the improved whale optimization algorithm (IWOA) to obtain the optimal solution for the regional average vehicle delay model. Finally, we propose a bidirectional green wave automatic control method for the main line, which utilizes the optimized results of dynamic regional traffic signal timing and employs a multi-strategy fusion graphical method to obtain the dynamic main line bidirectional green wave. Experimental results show that compared to the traditional graphical method, the multi-strategy fusion graphical method increases the green wave bandwidth by 20%. The mainline bidirectional green wave adaptive coordinated control method improves main line traffic efficiency by 32.3% and regional network traffic efficiency by 8.7%. • A cross-intersection traffic flow prediction model A-GCN+ utilizing Attention-aggregated GCN and TCN for TS features. • A dynamic regional traffic signal coordination method with improved whale optimization algorithm and results of A-GCN+. • A bidirectional green wave automatic control method with a multi-strategy fusion graphical method for the main line. • The multi-strategy fusion graphical method increases the green wave bandwidth by up to 20%. • The proposed method improves main line traffic efficiency by 32.3% and regional network traffic efficiency by 8.7%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To establish Weibull distribution patterns for outdoor wind speed (WS) over an extended time period and determine wind conditions for building energy-efficient design, this study collected daily WS data from 381 cities spanning all thermal design zones in China. Weibull distribution shape and scale parameters were estimated using three methods: Maximum Likelihood Estimation (MLE), Graphical Method (GM), and Method of Moments (MM). A comprehensive goodness-of-fit assessment of these methods revealed that GM and MLM exhibited superior performance, making them suitable for determining Weibull parameters in the summer, winter, and the entire year. Through a rigorous examination and evaluation of the shape and scale parameters within each subzone across the summer, winter, and the entire year periods, the study identified the Rayleigh distribution as the typical pattern for low WS in building energy-efficient design. The determined Weibull distribution patterns can serve as fundamental information for wind inlet in assessing climate potential, WS in Outdoor Climate Design Conditions, and wind information in Typical Meteorological Year. • A comparative analysis was conducted using daily wind speed data from 381 stations using three estimation methods. • Weibull parameter ranges for the summer, winter, and annual were determined and analysed across all subzones. • A consistent Rayleigh distribution pattern was found in all seasons. • The distribution patterns can be used to determine wind conditions in building energy-efficient design. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The AB multi-stimuli-responsive block copolymer pTEGMA- b -pHIABMA (TEGMA: tetra(ethyleneglycol) methyl ether methacrylate; HIABMA: 4-[(hydroxyimino)aldehyde]butyl methacrylate) comprises a hydrophilic and thermoresponsive PTEGMA block linked to the hydrophobic PHIABMA chain. The latter is endowed with slightly acidic oxime groups that potentially form complexes with metal ions. Here we investigate the formation of hybrid Cu(II)-polymer nanoaggregates both in water and in acetonitrile. Cu(II) ions are quantitatively and rapidly incorporated, in the presence of a base, into pre-formed polymeric core-shell micelles (30 nm diameter by DLS) in water up to 1:2 metal-to-ligand stoichiometry. The pKa of the polymer is decreased from ≅11.2 to 4.65 due to interaction with Cu(II) and the complex is shown to involve oximate ions. The thermoresponsivity of the polymeric micelles remains unchanged with Cu(II) complexation and allows an easy separation by flocculation of the hybrid complex. Moreover, nanoaggregates (D = 20 nm) form in acetonitrile from the fully solubilized copolymer interacting with Cu(OAc) 2. The 1:2 Cu(II)/ligand stoichiometry is confirmed with the Job graphical method. Characterization of the hybrid micelles was carried out by UV–Vis spectrometry, DLS, TEM, STEM and SAXS. Quantitative release of Cu(II) in acidic conditions is demonstrated both in water and in acetonitrile. Full recovery of the free metal ions and of intact polymeric micelles is achieved through centrifugal filtration of the aqueous preparation, as a proof-of-concept for a recyclable system for metal uptake and release. Furthermore, Cu0 nanoparticles of 5–10 nm are obtained through reduction of Cu(II) within the micelles with ascorbic acid in aqueous solution. [Display omitted] • Cu2+/Oximate 1:2 complexes are formed in the core-shell micelles (D = 30 nm) obtained from copolymer pTEGMA- b -pHIABMA. • pKa of oxime groups in the hybrid micelles is as low as 4.6 and Cu2+ is released at acidic pH. • Intact micelles are separated from free Cu2+ at room temperature by centrifugal filtration at low pH. Hybrid micelles are thermoresponsive (T CP = 55 °C) and can be separated by flocculation. • Hybrid micelles are thermoresponsive and can be separated by flocculation at T CP > 55 °C. • Cu(0) nanoparticles are obtained within the micelles core by reduction with ascorbic acid. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Atmospheric degradation performance of passive coating on tinplate is studied by EIS. • Two models for passive coating failure have been proposed based on EIS data fitting. • The proposed failure models correspond well to findings by SIMS characterizations. • EIS measurement has a great potential in degradation evaluation of passive coatings. Understanding the atmospheric exposure induced degradation of passive coating is of substantial importance in gaining information regarding degradation behavior of the coating itself and its protection effect to underlying substrate. In this work, the structural evolution of a pre-engineered passive Cr 2 O 3 coating on tinplate under atmospheric exposure conditions has been interpretated based on EIS responses to structural evolution of the passive coating. Results indicate that the EIS data interpretation by graphical method can accurately provide parameters of coating thickness δ and CPE parameter n that are associated with structural evolution and corrosion resistance of the passive coating. Following the evolutions in δ and n , two degradation patterns be determined. The first relates an initial degradation in outer layer under high humidity condition and then the failure of inner layer. The second relates an initially moderate but then an excessive growth in the inner layer under high temperature condition, which results in a structural heterogeneity in the inner layer and thus the degradation in corrosion resistance. Such evolutions correspond well to the result by SIMS characterizations. Therefore, EIS measurement can provide an accurate and detailed evaluation on degradation behavior of a passive coating under atmospheric exposure conditions, and it is believed to have a great potential in industrial practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The sudden collapse or sliding of concave blocks under external force interference may cause the overall or local instability of engineering rock mass, and then cause serious casualties and economic losses, making the removability analysis of concave blocks become the focus of rock mechanics research. In order to analyze the removability of concave blocks in fractured rock mass, the basic assumption of traditional block theory is improved from the aspect of joint finiteness, and the generalized expression of block pyramid is established. Using the graphical method, it is analyzed that the finiteness and removability of the concave block can be characterized by its block pyramid and joint pyramid. The relationship between the block pyramid and joint pyramid of concave block and its finiteness and removability is derived and verified. A general pyramid method (GPM) for analyzing the removability of concave blocks in fractured rock masses is proposed. Based on the GPM method, a block analysis and identification algorithm is developed. Finally, the engineering application of GPM method is carried out with the roadway roof in two test areas in Tongkeng Mine in Guangxi. The results show that the GPM method can effectively predict the block type of the concave blocks on the roadway roof, and ensure the safety and stability of rock mass engineering. Compared with the traditional block theory method, the GPM method can be applied to the block type analysis of concave blocks, which has important theoretical significance and practical value for improving the rock mass stability analysis method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work proposes a new formula for predicting riser's heights in auditoria with variable risers (known as isacoustic curves). Unlike the standard formulae, the proposed one considers the effect of head shape on sightlines. The proposed formula was validated mathematically and computationally. In the mathematical validation, the results of the proposed and standard formulae, in addition to the graphical method, were compared. In the computational validation, parametric design, via Grasshopper and Anemone plugin, was utilized to simulate and calculate the Visibility Ratios V R for the proposed and standard formulae. Results showed that the proposed formula yields a more accurate and a relatively higher V R , while the standard formulae showed a "cumulative error Δ". This error gradually becomes obvious with the distant tiers and balconies. Results also demonstrated that the enhancement in V R becomes higher in the far rows, but it is much pronounced in the hall level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article presents a new application of a well-known theory concerning mixing. The introduction of boundary conditions was proposed, which allowed the determination of a universal formula for the k parameter of the system. A graphical method for solving the problem has been proposed, which is supported by studies of the synthesis of rigid polyurethane foam. Mixing tests were performed using a variable ratio of the diameter of the stirrer to the diameter of the mixing chamber. Block-shaped samples were obtained, which were then characterized in terms of mechanical properties - compressive strength, brittleness, in terms of thermal properties - Thermogravimetric analysis, differential calorimetry, in terms of qualitative and quantitative structure studies using SEM images, and in terms of chemical analysis using FTIR. The proposed method for determining the boundary parameters of blending systems was proved to be applicable to polyurethane blending system. • Analytical considerations regarding the mixing process. • Proposing a new approach to determining important boundary parameters for the polyurethane mixing process. • Proposal to improve polyurethane blending processes to reduce the energy intensity of the process. • Effect of stirrer-to-vessel diameter ratio on the structure and properties of rigid polyurethane foam. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Producing energy and higher value bio-products from waste wood recycled from construction and demolition (C&D) debris has been proposed as an economically viable opportunity in the biomass and bioenergy sectors. However, several challenges associated with the thermal conversion processes remain to be solved. This study introduces a 3D numerical simulation to study thermal conversion of wood chips. Combined biomass combustor, and indirect pyrolysis unit is used to create a self-sustainable biomass unit which does not rely on fossil fuel. Multizone heat distribution in the rotary kiln unit is investigated by employing CFD, an analytical algorithm and measurement tools in different zones of the equipment. A multizone heat transfer concept, the overall yield rate of biochar, thermochemical conversion of the bed, the volume shrinkage in the wood chips during the pyrolysis process, as well as biomass volatile and tar composition, and finally the potential of energy savings is widely investigated. CFD results and experimental evidence confirm that at least 31 % energy saving in drying zone can be achievable if drying and pyrolysis zone are separated in the indirect slow pyrolysis rotary kiln unit. The quality of biochar improved by 21 % increase in fixed carbon content and tar condensation is controlled. • Eulerian CFD simulation of thermal conversion in indirect slow pyrolysis unit. • CFD results and analytical algorithm confirm 31 % energy saving in drying zone after zone separation. • 21 % improvement of the biochar quality after zone separation. • Develop a graphical method to find the potential of energy saving in indirect slow pyrolysis unit. • Tar condensation and deposition problem is resolved in the multizone design. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

MXenes have rapidly gained prominence since their serendipitous discovery in 2011 in the field of 2D materials due to their exceptional properties, which leads to strong applications in energy storage, anti-wear coatings, nanocomposites and electronics sector. This study examined tensile characteristics of wide ranged titanium carbide and nitride pristine MXenes by molecular dynamics investigation where the directional, temperature and strain rate dependencies were explored. The uniaxial tension computations have been performed at temperature of 225–525K with a linear difference of 75K and strain rate of 5 × 10−5 to 1 × 10−2 ps−1 with an approximate regular logarithmic difference. Afterward a two steps graphical method has been proposed from temperature and strain rate dependencies to calculate the strain rate sensitivity and activation energy for both zigzag and armchair directions by using Arrhenius correlation. The temperature exerts a slight influence on the activation energy, wherein a decrease in temperature results in a reduction of the activation energy. After all, the Ti 2 X (X = N,C) expressed superior mechanical strength compared to their immediate pristine MXenes. • Molecular dynamics study reveals directional, temperature, and strain rate dependencies of properties in pristine MXenes. • Ti 2 X exhibits superior tensile properties, while Ti 3 X 2 (X = N,C) shows inferior compared to their respective MXenes. • Activation energy of Arrhenius equation is determined from temperature and strain rate dependencies. • Temperature has a moderate influence on the activation energy, resulting in an increase as the temperature elevates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]