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Regulatory dose–response assessments traditionally rely on in vivo data and default assumptions. New Approach Methods (NAMs) present considerable opportunities to both augment traditional dose–response assessments and accelerate the evaluation of new/data-poor chemicals. This review aimed to determine the potential utilization of NAMs through a unified conceptual framework that compartmentalizes derivation of toxicity values into five sequential Key Dose–response Modules (KDMs): (1) point-of-departure (POD) determination, (2) test system-to-human (e.g. inter-species) toxicokinetics and (3) toxicodynamics, (4) human population (intra-species) variability in toxicodynamics, and (5) toxicokinetics. After using several “traditional” dose-response assessments to illustrate this framework, a review is presented where existing NAMs, including in silico, in vitro, and in vivo approaches, might be applied across KDMs. Further, the false dichotomy between “traditional” and NAMs-derived data sources is broken down by organizing dose–response assessments into a matrix where each KDM has Tiers of increasing precision and confidence: Tier 0: Default/generic values, Tier 1: Computational predictions, Tier 2: Surrogate measurements, and Tier 3: Direct measurements. These findings demonstrated that although many publications promote the use of NAMs in KDMs (1) for POD determination and (5) for human population toxicokinetics, the proposed matrix of KDMs and Tiers reveals additional immediate opportunities for NAMs to be integrated across other KDMs. Further, critical needs were identified for developing NAMs to improve in vitro dosimetry and quantify test system and human population toxicodynamics. Overall, broadening the integration of NAMs across the steps of dose–response assessment promises to yield higher throughput, less animal-dependent, and more science-based toxicity values for protecting human health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractTitanium alloys are important engineering materials used in various industry areas, such as aviation, aerospace and medical devices. The surface roughness is a significant parameter for assessing the machining quality of titanium alloys. In this study, in order to compare the effects of dry and wet milling conditions on the surface roughness of titanium alloys, we established a test system to obtain the surface roughness, three-dimensional milling vibration and three-dimensional milling force signals. The gray correlation theory was applied to investigate the correlation between surface roughness and milling vibration or milling force under dry and wet milling conditions. Using the least squares method, the prediction models of surface roughness corresponding to dry and wet milling conditions were developed according to the features of vibration or force signals. Furthermore, the combined prediction models of surface roughness that integrate multiple signal features and milling parameters were established. The comparison results revealed that there was a stronger correlation between roughness and milling force, milling vibration in wet milling. Wet milling exhibited significantly lower roughness compared to dry milling under the same machining parameters, with up to a 59% reduction. The correlation coefficient of the wet milling model is as high as 0.95. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The efficient coordination of the distance and directional overcurrent relays (DOCRs) is jeopardized by the massive deployment of renewable distributed generation (DG) into electrical power networks. The two key aspects influencing the relay coordination are the bidirectional flow of current and increased short-circuit currents due to DG integration. This study investigates the consequences of variable DG penetration on the distance and dual-setting DOCRs (DS-DOCRs) coordination. As a result, common optimal relay settings have been obtained that can be utilized for variable DG penetration levels in modified IEEE-14 bus test system. For the distance relays (DRs), a fixed zone 1 and variable zone 2 operation have been considered. The proposed combined protection scheme is tested on a modified IEEE-14 bus test system using DS-DOCRs and DRs. The relay coordination problem is formulated as a constrained non-linear optimization problem and solved by genetic algorithm (GA) and gray wolf optimization (GWO). In this paper, DS-DOCRs with user-defined relay characteristics have demonstrated superior performance in line protection compared to conventional DOCRs with normal inverse (NI) characteristics. In addition, a comprehensive comparative analysis of optimization algorithms has been performed between GA and GWO algorithms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The evaluation of various urban planning scenarios using metrics has enhanced consensus-building in participatory planning. Nevertheless, the integration of scenario planning pedagogy remains limited in Latin American nations. To bridge this disparity, scenario planning was integrated into a graduate planning studio in Bogotá over a two-year period. Our investigation focused on enhancements in students’ comprehension of uncertainty, urban metrics, and negotiation. Findings indicate that students successfully generated multiple scenarios rapidly. However, challenges emerged concerning the interpretation of communicative concepts in planning, data accessibility and constraints, as well as issues related to the user-friendliness and interoperability of available software tools. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Omni-dimensional dynamic convolution can adjust spatial sizes, the amount of input/output channels, and kernel size based on the characteristics of the input, thus improving the capacity to extract characteristics through convolution, resulting in increased computation and model complexity. As a result, it is challenging to deploy these models on resource-limited airborne high-spectral testing systems. This paper proposes a lightweight omni-dimensional dynamic convolution network as a possible solution to this issue. In this network, the LS2CM module is used for spatial-spectral information extraction, and the pyramidal residual network is the basic architecture for extracting features from shallow to deep layers, and lightweight omni-dimensional dynamic convolution is adopted in the convolution module. Overcoming the pyramidal structure can only extract local information, we proposed a new simple spatial-spectral self-attention mechanism to extract global information from hyperspectral. Besides, the Huber function as an activation function. The IP, WHU-Hi-LongKou, SA, and PU datasets were used to verify the accuracy of the suggested network model. The results show that the proposed lightweight network maintains an appropriate equilibrium among model complexity as well as accuracy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractObjectiveDesignStudy SampleResultsConclusionThe primary objective of this study was to explore the feasibility of remotely assessing music perception in paediatric cochlear implant (CI) recipients. Pitch direction discrimination (PDD) and timbre recognition (TR) tests were administered remotely. We aimed to provide insights into the potential benefits and challenges of remote assessments.The study was exploratory in nature. All participants underwent remote assessments for the PDD and TR tests. Eight participants completed both online and face-to-face tests. Supervising parents in remote tests completed the System Usability Scale (SUS).A cohort of 27 children with CI, averaging 11.19 years of age, participated in this study.In the online condition, the average PDD score was 3.29 semitones (st), the TR score was 37.86%, and the average duration for PDD and TR testing was 9.98 and 6.18 minutes, respectively. Face-to-face sessions had an average PDD score of 3.00 st, a TR score of 32.81% and durations of 10.20 and 5.42 minutes for PDD and TR tests, respectively. The SUS score averaged 64.04.These findings contribute to the growing body of knowledge supporting the integration of remote assessments in audiological practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An immunochromatographic test system based on the indirect competitive format has been developed for the rapid control of cyanotoxin microcystin-LR (MC-LR) in drinking water. To increase the assay sensitivity, a hydroquinone-based reduction of silver ions on the surface of gold nanoparticles as part of the immune complexes formed on the immunochromatographic membrane has been carried out. This stage allows for the enhancement of the colouration in test strip zones. The developed test system is characterised by an instrumental limit of detection of 0.05 ng/mL, a cut-off of 0.5 ng/mL, and a working range of the detectable concentrations of 0.08–0.42 ng/mL. The assay duration was 17 min. The applicability of the test system for MC-LR detection in drinking water is demonstrated. The assay recoveries vary from 90% to 120%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In pipeline ultrasonic testing, the accurate identification of defect types is a prerequisite for quantifying defect sizes. To this end, this paper proposes a defect identification algorithm based on the combination of Wavelet Packet Transform (WPT), Distance Evaluation Technique (DET) and GA-SVM to precisely identify defect boundaries. First, the ultrasonic echo signals are processed using WPT to more accurately extract defect information. Then, DET is employed to eliminate redundant feature parameters, which are sorted by sensitivity to determine the input feature parameters for the GA-SVM. On this basis, a self-developed ultrasonic testing experimental system is used to collect ultrasonic echo signals from Q235 steel pipes with cylindrical, spherical, and conical defects at different spatial orientations of the probe and the pipe. After processing and identifying the signals, it was found that the proposed algorithm achieves an average identification accuracy of 99% for different types of defects, thereby realising automatic identification of pipeline defects. The results provide new ideas and methods for the intelligent identification of volumetric defect types in pipeline ultrasonic internal testing and promote the development of industrial-grade ultrasonic internal detectors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper intends to model an AGC regulator for a restructured environment using Bare Bone Particle Swarm Optimization (BBPSO). The gain-controlled Proportional–Integral (PI) Controller is designed here to enhance the performance of the BBPSO algorithm along with Gaussian distribution. The practical difficulty in handling the area control error to zero is the sudden variations in load. In practice, the tremendous contribution of deregulation in the power sector causes volatility in frequency and tie-line power deviations. To ensure the robustness of the proposed controller, three different cases of power system transactions have been considered. The performance has been validated by comparing it with Real Coded Genetic Algorithm-tuned PI controller (RCGA-PI) and Differential Evolutionary Algorithm-tuned PI controller (DE-PI) for the five area Thermal-Thermal generation test system. Moreover, the dynamic performance of an extensive range of demands and disturbances of all areas like settling time and overshoot against parametric precariousness has been done on the proposed test system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although many performance practices have been operated to enhance government department performance, the outcomes of performance practices have caused some challenges. An important concept in performance management is 'overload'; public employees suffer from the high workload in the operation of many performance management systems. This study first identifies the concept of 'evaluation overload' in managing performance evaluation systems and tests how this overload affects organizational performance. The results indicate that a heavy workload in evaluative processes has direct and indirect impacts on the perceived and archival organizational performance of central agencies in South Korea. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractCollecting pressure-retaining deep-sea liquid samples is important for the research on in-situ environment and life. A pressure-triggered isobaric sequential liquid sampling system (PTISLSS) was developed for the collection of seawater at target depths. The sampling system comprises six independent seawater collection modules, each containing a titanium sample container and a pre-charged accumulator. A motor-driven sampling mechanism was designed to open and close the fluid channels at depth. Theoretical studies have indicated that the mechanism can generate a contact pressures of up to 160 MPa to ensure the sealing of the samples. The relationship between the pressure of pre-charged gas and the volume of fluid sample has been derived considering the effects of seal friction. The sampling system was built for full-ocean-depth sampling operation and the reliability of the system was tested at a pressure of 120 MPa. The field test was conducted in the West Philippine Basin on a recent scientific research cruise. Pressurized seawater from depths of 2000 to 4500 meters was recovered, and the pressure-retaining rate exceeded 93.5%. The developed sampling system presents satisfactory performance and high operational efficiency, and it will have a wide range of applications in the field of large-scale deep-sea sampling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Transient Stability Constrained Optimal Power Flow (TSCOPF) has become an important tool for power systems today. TSCOPF is a nonlinear optimisation problem, making its solution difficult, especially for small power systems. This paper presents a new optimisation method that incorporates Fitness-Distance Balance (FDB) with the Artificial Ecosystem Optimisation (AEO) algorithm to improve the solution quality in multi-dimensional and nonlinear optimisation problems. The proposed method, named the Fitness-Distance Balance Artificial Ecosystem Optimisation (FDBAEO), also has the capacity to solve the TSCOPF problem efficiently. In order to evaluate the proposed algorithm, it was tested on IEEE CEC benchmarks and on an IEEE 30-bus test system for the TSCOPF problem. Simulation results were compared with the basic AEO algorithm and other current meta-heuristic methods reported in the literature. The results showed that the proposed method was more effective in converging at the global optimum point in solving the TSCOPF problem compared to the other algorithms. This situation indicates that the design changes made in the decomposition phase of the AEO were more suitable for simulating the operation of the algorithm in the real world. The FDBAEO has exhibited a promising performance in solving both single-objective optimisation and constrained real-world engineering design problems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In today's fast-changing power systems, it is vital to have a protection system that can distinguish between power swing and fault conditions. With advanced protective devices (Digital Relays), an appropriate protection strategy can be established to identify power swing and fault conditions individually. The proposed algorithm uses the sliding window concept, which requires very little computational data unless any abnormal conditions exist in the power system. Modified Full Cycle Discrete Fourier Transform (MFCDFT) is more effective in the extraction of the fundamental phasors from the original complex signal by effectively removing the harmonics and DC components. An adaptive impedance characteristic-based MFCDFT is utilized for the discrimination of power swing and fault in this work. Several fault scenarios and power swings are generated on the test system concurrently and independently from the relay station at varied distances. PSCAD/EMTDC is utilized on a single-machine infinite bus system to analyze various test conditions. The simulation is utilized in this case to collect data from various test circumstances. After obtaining the data, the MFCDFT algorithm along with adaptive impedance estimation is performed using MATLAB code. After examining various test results, it is discovered that the suggested technique correctly recognizes power swings and various fault scenarios. It can also identify the difference between stable and unstable power swings. According to the results, the proposed technique is proficient at spotting fault and power swing conditions. In addition, the algorithm ensures dependable operation with quick detection and avoids maloperation under a typical swing condition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The increasing power demand growth and extreme weather conditions push utilities to search for a more sustainable and resilient power distribution infrastructure. Dispatchable distributed generators (DGs) can contribute to achieving the goals. This paper reveals a general framework for allocating dispatchable DGs with their suitable location, capacity, and type in the test distribution networks to bring sustainability and resilient planning synergy. A multiobjective optimization approach has been presented to minimize payback year (PBY) for DGs, enhance the network's operational efficiency, and promote system resiliency by satisfying various operating constraints. The proposed planning model is structured to give the best possible solution in compliance with changes in seasonal peak demands. The efficacy of the proposed scheme has been tested on a 28-bus Indian distribution system and an IEEE 33-bus test system, and results concerning the number of customers served, and priority customers restored are presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

At present, the usage of various energy sources in the electricity grid has formed new challenges like power quality effectiveness, energy utilization, and voltage stabilization. With the recognition of smart grid, the maintenance of power quality (PQ) has been regarded as the challenging one. Primarily, APF are employed in an attempt to recompense the issues associated with power quality, as they can filter out promptly and responds vibrantly. Here, in this work, an IEEE 9 Bus System based on WSCC is introduced along with UPQC combined DPFC system. To accommodate a renewable energy source, one of the generators test system. MGWO approach-based PID device is combined with DC Source as a converter for 3-phase inverter. This arrangement is studied using Simulation in both cases with and without DPFC. In addition, the performance estimation is done in terms of parameters like load voltage and current, shunt voltage and series current, and grid current along with their THD values. Based on the outcome, it is found that the proposed UPQC–DPFC combination helps in effective harmonic elimination and increased power storage at the output side. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research investigates the role of various energy storage systems (ESS) in improving the power system resiliency. Different ESS configurations are analyzed individually and in combination to assess their impact on system performance. Additionally, a fuzzy-based controller (PIλDN + FFOPI) is proposed as a secondary controller for load frequency control, with control parameters optimized using an improved Volleyball Premier League algorithm (IVPL). This algorithm leverages the powerful synergy of opposition-based learning and the versatility of the VPL algorithm, resulting in a highly effective and innovative approach. To validate the proposed approach, the modified Kundur's 2-area test system under deregulation is first utilized, and its effectiveness is confirmed through testing with both step and random load disturbances. Sensitivity analysis is conducted to evaluate system performance across a wide range of parameter variations. Furthermore, the modified IEEE 39 bus system is utilized to assess compatibility and scalability. Results demonstrate the effectiveness of combined ESS configurations and the fuzzy-based controller in enhancing system stability and reliability. This research contributes to power system engineering by offering insights into the benefits of energy storage systems for dynamic response enhancement. The proposed fuzzy-based control strategy, tuned by the IVPL algorithm, presents a promising approach for improving power system performance and stability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rolling contact fatigue (RCF) cracks online detection using eddy current testing (ECT) is in urgent demand. However, RCF cracks detection and evaluation in this way under moving conditions remains challenging due to the velocity effect in ECT. This paper aims to study the response of a transmitter-receiver eddy current probe to cracks under moving conditions and evaluate the depth and inclination angle of RCF cracks. In this paper, a high-speed eddy current testing system is developed to experimentally investigate the influence of coil gap, detection speed, and the lift-off on the eddy current probe's response under moving conditions. In addition, the temporal and amplitude features of the eddy current signal are extracted to characterise the depth and inclination angle of the RCF cracks. The experimental results indicate the eddy current probe's response can be improved by increasing the coil gap (coil centre distance) suitably, which can be done to compensate for the attenuation of the eddy current signal caused by detection speed and lift-off. The probe's response hardly changes with an increase in detection speed when the driver and pick-up coils of the eddy current probe completely overlap. The crack depth and inclination angle can be evaluated under moving conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aerial working platforms are widely used to transport personnel and equipment to a specified height. To ensure operation stability, their chassis are supported on the ground by a four-legged outrigger system before use. At present, leveling of an aerial working platform is manually conducted, resulting in low accuracy, low efficiency, poor robustness, and poor adaptability. In response to this, a battery-electric drive-electric control integrated aerial working chassis is proposed at first. Then the attitude and load coupling control model proposed by our team is applied to design its integrated control system. Finally, performance tests of the control system and comparisons with the traditional point-chasing method are studied. Results show that the aerial working chassis and the control system can rapidly and synchronously realize the geometry leveling and load homogenization of the chassis, thus having potential values to be promoted to special vehicles with leveling requirements. A battery-electric drive-electric control integrated aerial working chassis is proposed. The coupling control model of geometric leveling and load distribution proposed by our team is applied to chassis Performance tests of the control system and comparisons with traditional point chasing method are studied. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fault detection schemes become more dependable with the proper selection of drift parameters. In this paper, a new approach is presented to set such drift parameters using a differential evolution algorithm. These optimally selected drift parameters are incorporated in a superimposed current-based fault detection scheme to enhance its performance and nullify the use of additional threshold settings. Later, the performance of fault detection schemes with optimal drift parameters is compared with regular drift parameters by generating data on a two-bus test power system. The results clearly show that the optimally generated drift parameters enhance the performance of the fault detection scheme and are also used for faulty phase identification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper explores the feasibility of fabricating and employing an innovative appendage-free modular magnetic interior wall system that allows non-technical users to modify interior spaces to their spatial needs without any need for specialized expertise. The modular magnetic wall panel system tested in this study is composed of free-standing panels with magnetized upright frames for tessellated linkage. In this project, real-scale prototypes were produced and roughly tested for stability to verify that manufacturing is possible and to identify areas for design improvement. Forces were enacted perpendicular to the panel façade in free-standing and linked configurations to mimic probable leaning behaviours by users. Results of rough tests confirm production feasibility and the stability of linked panel assemblies but design improvements must be applied to stabilize the free-standing configuration. Design development and possible enhancements are discussed based on findings. Standardized testing of the enhanced prototype is also recommended. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microgrid load flow studies have recently attracted a lot of attention due to the introduction of independent microgrids with decentralized sources. These microgrids can be operated in grid-connected mode as well as in islanded mode. But the islanded mode operation of microgrids has some inherent limitations that cannot be addressed by conventional load flow approaches. Recent research has suggested some modifications to the traditional methods by treating system frequency as a variable parameter and leaving out the concept of slack bus. In this respect, a novel load flow method has been presented for microgrids that operate as droop-regulated distributed generations (DGs) employing distributed slack bus. The Jacobian matrix has been modified, which leads to improved convergence. Further, a comparison of the modified decoupled Newton Raphson and the modified Newton Raphson load flow techniques has been presented. Several case studies for 6-bus and 38-bus test systems, demonstrate the feasibility of the proposed load flow approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Using the self-developed multiring shield segment prototype test loading system, the three-ring staggered full-scale segments under ultimate loading are tested to investigate the mechanical characteristics of the segments before and after reinforcement. Then, a numerical simulation is carried out based on the MIDAS GTS NX to study the stiffness change before and after segment reinforcement. The test results show that the maximum bending moment at the waist of the reinforced segment moves down, and the maximum offset and bolt stress are greatly reduced. The maximum offset occurs at the waist and top of the reinforced segment, and joint 5 bears the maximum shear stress and principal stress, which decreased by 29.5% and 28.6%, respectively. Compared with the single-ring shield segment after reinforcement, the three-ring segment enters the plastic state earlier, and the overall stiffness of the segment is greatly improved, which can weaken the intermediate stage of plastic deformation and delay the process of the segment entering the plastic state. In addition, the stiffness of the unreinforced segment decreases sharply when its lateral convergence deformation is greater than 25.03 mm, but the stiffness of the reinforced segment is still in a stable state. The plastic deformation of the concrete starts from the bolt hole and goes along the bolt hole to the two ends of the bolt. Lateral expansion occurred, and the bolts of the reinforced segment did not break during the whole loading process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper proposes a damping torque index (DTI) to determine the optimal installation location of the power system stabilizer (PSS) in the multi-machine power network. The proposed index is based on the classical damping torque analysis (CDTA) method for power system low-frequency electro-mechanical (LFEO) analysis. The selection criteria of the PSS location is the maximum magnitude of DTI under normal operating conditions. The CDTA method is used to design PSS, and the phase compensation technique subsequently adjusts the associated parameters. Furthermore, to analyze the power system's critical oscillation mode, a wide-area damping controller (WADC) is design for the synchronous generator where optimal location of PSS is install. The reduced-order model-based WADC includes time-varying delay in the wide-area signal. The WADC's input signals from the phasor measurement unit (PMU) and the location of the PMU are selected using geometric measures of observability and WADC parameters design based on the residue approach. The proposed approach is validated in two separate test systems, and modal analysis is carried out on MATLAB software. The simulated results have been validated on the real-time digital simulator (RTDS) RSCAD 5.012. Results obtained on RTDS show that the proposed approach efficiently damps low-frequency electro-mechanical oscillations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To successfully determine if a system meets some reliability standard, typically assurance tests are conducted on the full system. This proven approach is extremely effective. However, it can be cost prohibitive when full system tests are expensive. Previous work has incorporated component and subsystem data to supplement the component prior distributions before a full system assurance test. Although this can be helpful, we propose an additional advance of allowing component and subsystem tests as part of the assurance test. We show that by augmenting full system tests with component and subsystem tests, in some cases, we can reduce the cost of the assurance test. For a system that can be decomposed into independent series and parallel parts, the theory works perfectly. In the case where we cannot accurately classify parts using the series or parallel structure, we add a generalization that works for systems that are "almost-series" or "almost-parallel." [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Distributed generation offers a bright future for electric networks, but requires optimal allocation of dispersed resources and an acceptable optimization technique. This article proposes optimal integration of DGs and capacitor banks to optimize distribution network parameters. Imperialist competitive algorithm (ICA) has been used to optimize the distribution network parameters such as optimal location and capacity of Photo Voltaic Distributed Generator ((PVDG) & capacitor. Loss reduction, declination in C O 2 emission, and an enhanced voltage profile are major advantages of positioning DGs into the distributive topology. The proposed model has been validated and tested on IEEE-33 and Indian real system of 130 bus of Jaipur City for different load patterns. Furthermore, the results obtained from ICA have been verified by simulating the test systems on ETAP software. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Getting proper rest is an essential issue, but it is neglected as the major component of every person's overall health and well-being. Enough proper rest has a lot of proven health benefits. This paper aims at proposing a systematic framework to find the suitable pillows and mattresses for individuals to have proper rest and sleep. The proposed system includes a set of force-sensing resistors (FSR), thermal sensors, humidity-thermal sensors, and a central unit to process the acquired data. Customized software in LabVIEW is developed to monitor the results and ultimately identify the proper ergonomic mattresses and pillows for users. Initial experiments were performed based on zonal performance and multitasking to design, construct, and test each system as a novel hypothesis. The studies and tests were carried out in two steps. The first step included hardware testing and sensor arrangement, and the second step involved processing the acquired data to identify a good product. In this study, we propose a feasible framework to select convenient mattresses and pillows for each person. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cascade controllers improve the frequency profiles of the microgrids during power fluctuations. In this paper, a proportional–integral-proportional-derivative (PI-PD) cascade controller is applied to minimize the frequency disturbances of a fully renewable microgrid with electric vehicles. The superiorities of the PI-PD controller are tested at different operating conditions of generation, demand, and comparisons are made with a classical controller. The test system is completely incorporated with biodiesel, biogas, and solar renewable units. In such a completely renewable environment, power balancing is a difficult task. Therefore, the effect of storage units and electric vehicles is also investigated to mitigate active power imbalances. Furthermore, the optimal power generation concept is incorporated with variable participation factors of biodiesel and biogas plants which improves the load frequency control objectives of the isolated microgrid. For all the simulation case studies, the controller's gains are identified by using a magnetotactic bacteria optimizer using the MATLAB-SIMULINK platform. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Several advantages have been achieved in distribution systems by adding Distributed Generation (DG). These benefits comprise minimizing power losses and improving the voltage profiles. Such benefits can be enhanced if DGs are optimally sized. This paper presents a DG in the distribution scheme to increase node voltages and reduce the power loss of radial distribution systems by using the Modified Shuffled Frog Leaping Algorithm (MSFLA) technique. The core objective is to decrease active-power losses of the system while keeping the voltage profiles within the defined limits of the system. This paper optimally allocates and sizes three types of DGs in various standard radial test systems and a practical radial feeder. Single and multiple DGs are considered for the proposed work by including some special cases. The standard test systems on which proposed work is performed are 33-bus and 69-bus radial feeders. A practical 43-bus radial feeder of factory area Faisalabad has also been taken under consideration for analysis. The Forward–Backward Sweep (FBS) scheme is selected for the load flow analysis, whereas MSFLA is chosen for finding of optimum size(s) and site(s) of DG(s). Various types of DGs results are retained separately and collectively. We have reduced the losses up to 85.14% and 96.1% for the 33-bus system and 69-bus respectively. The results will depict a significant improvement, both in the minimization of losses and also in improving the voltage profile. The results of multi DGs placement will be much more promising than those achieved after placing them independently. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Distributed generation (DG) significantly improves power system reliability and voltage profile, and reduces power losses. These benefits can be maximized by optimizing the DG utilization, which greatly depends on adequate number, size, and placement of DG. This study proposes a high-convergence optimization technique for optimal DG placement in distribution networks, aiming to reduce power losses and improve voltage profile and voltage stability index. The technique is tested on a 7-bus system before being verified on the IEEE 33-bus system. After validation, it is tested on a 71-bus distribution network (DN). The estimated ideal size for a single DG is used as a limit for determining the optimal placement and size of multiple DG units. The results show that there is a loss reduction of 70.09%, 61.43%, and 71.15% for the 7-bus, IEEE 33-bus, and 71-bus systems, respectively, from their base case loss. The average absolute error of voltage of the aforementioned buses also shows similar enhancement, decreasing from 0.0144, 0.0561, and 0.0527, to 0.0058, 0.0209, and 0.0184, respectively. The voltage stability index of each DN has increased significantly in comparison to the base case. The comparison demonstrates that the proposed technique can provide better results for any size of distribution network. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Traditional central control system is unable to deal with the optimal control tasks of modern distribution networks due to its low reliability, high computation and communication burden and poor expansibility. Based on distributed collaboration principle, this paper presents a multiple-object distributed optimisation control strategy for distribution network utilising DG grouping method. Distributed control strategy for node voltage control group is developed by taking the capacity utilisation ratio (CUR) of DG as the consensus variable, to comply with the feature of high resistance/reactance ratio of distribution network feeder line. Distributed control strategies for exchanged power control groups, which respectively takes CUR and power factor as the consensus variable, are formulated according to the different conditions of exchanged power imbalance. The parameter tuning method for three kinds of distributed optimisation control strategies are presented. The correctness and effectiveness of the proposed method are verified by simulation examples in the IEEE 14-node system, and simulation results on the IEEE 33-node test system are presented to show the robustness of the method to the disturbances related with distributed generation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microgrid with local DGs suffers from unintentional islanding and protection issues. Improper detection of islanding leads to equipment damage, maloperation of circuit breakers, equipment damage, and serious injuries to operating personnel. Therefore, islanding events should be detected and DGs should be isolated from the utility within time. In this work, a new passive islanding scheme based on the Teager-Kaiser energy operator (ψ) is proposed. Three-phase current and voltage samples are collected at PCC and used to calculate the $ \psi (v)/\psi (i) $ ψ (v) / ψ (i). This $ \psi (v)/\psi (i) $ ψ (v) / ψ (i) is used to calculate the index (N). If the index (N) is less than the threshold, the proposed IDT detects it as an islanding event (IE) event otherwise it detects as an NIE. The proposed IDT has the ability to discriminate between the non-islanding event (NIE) and islanding event (IE) during zero RPM and, zero APM different types of load switching, and the inception of different faults at different locations. The IEEE 13 bus system has been taken as a test system to test the efficacy of the proposed IDT and the test system was designed and executed in MATLAB/Simulink. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A nationwide sample of 129 police officers participated in a study aimed at validating and presenting practical implications of a selection procedure for applicants to an educational program for Norwegian police drone pilots. The subjects were part of a selection program for a training and qualification course for police drone pilots. The selection program consisted of tests of spatial orientation, logical reasoning, attentional selection, sustained attention, and visual short-term memory, in addition to a performance test in a drone flight simulator. The aim of the study was to evaluate the cognitive tests used in the selection program and their relation to performance during the simulated flight. The results from the untrained applicants revealed low-to-moderate intercorrelations of the cognitive tests. Only spatial orientation, logical reasoning, and attentional selection were correlated to the performance measures of skills and proficiency. Stepwise regression analysis showed that only spatial orientation and attentional selection had unique contributions in explaining the variance in both measures of performance. Implications are discussed on both practical and scientific levels. The positive implications of using untrained respondents, the use of proficiency measures in addition to skills, the building of a clearinghouse for drone selection data, and considering both the job-analyzes and the total test-performance when interpreting the applicant's test-scores are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effectiveness and repeatability of Additive Manufacturing (AM) technologies has been often measured through rigorous testing, both in-situ and ex-situ. In-situ nondestructive testing (NDT) has been used to understand the AM process and detect anomalies during the build. Ex-situ testing has been used for material characterization and internal defect detection. In this work, in-situ NDT and ex-situ testing methods are compared as applied to a Fused Filament Fabrication (FFF) process to detect defects that have formed internally in the part. Intentionally embedded features and defects are monitored and analyzed in-situ and ex-situ. Results from an automated image-based real-time defect detection system, an ultrasound ex-situ system, and a tensile testing system are compared to detect defects and their effects on mechanical properties. Real-time image-based defect detection is found to effectively spot defects as they form and allow the potential for implementing defect correction methods, while ex-situ tensile testing can be used as a form of validation to in-situ results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents a coordinated wide-area damping control of power system stabilizers (PSSs), static synchronous compensator (STATCOM), and static synchronous series compensator (SSSC) for grid-forming based wind and solar PV generation resources. The main objective of this work is to enhance the damping for inter-area oscillations while maintaining the voltage and frequency in the prescribed range, taking into consideration the operational uncertainties. Better voltage and reactive power support are provided by the use of STATCOM and for additional damping, an SSSC is employed with the coordinated wide-area damping controller (CWADC). Variable-speed wind turbine control methodology strategically combined with inertia control, de-loading control, pitch angle control, and electronic rotor speed control is employed to obtain an optimum response for discontinuous generation mixes and variable wind speed. The geometric measures of controllability/observability and residues method have been utilized to choose the appropriate input control signals and optimal location of CWADC. A multi-objective salp swarm algorithm has been used to optimize the parameters of the proposed CWADC. To demonstrate the efficacy of the proposed CWADC, nonlinear time-domain simulations are performed on a modified IEEE 68-bus test system embedded with hybrid wind-solar power plants considered multiple time delays. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Question Answering (QA) systems attempt to retrieve precise answers to questions posed in natural language by the users. It is a sophisticated form of Information Retrieval (IR) that uses a predefined collection of raw data in natural language. Malayalam is an official language in India, that is not only morphologically rich and agglutinative in nature but is also resource constrained. These aspects of the language make QA in Malayalam very challenging. This paper proposes a deep learning based QA system for Malayalam using techniques such as Long Short-Term Memory Networks (LSTM), Gated Recurrent Unit (GRU), and Memory Network models. Facebook bAbI dataset consisting of 20 tasks with the questions having multiple supporting facts, inductive and deductive reasoning, coreference, etc. have been used to train and test the system. It was observed that the Memory Network model achieved the best average accuracy (80%) among the three models implemented, in retrieving exact answers in Malayalam. This work is unique because all the reported work on Malayalam QA is rule-based, capable of extracting answers to factoid questions only. The proposed system which uses deep learning approaches is scalable and thus capable of enhancing the ongoing research in Malayalam QA along with the development of the Malayalam QA corpus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the rapid development of the microelectronics industry, industrial applications have put forward higher requirements on the efficiency and reliability of the dispenser, and the traditional piezoelectric dispenser uses ordinary spring preloading way, in this way, the dispenser is difficult to obtain a higher dispensing frequency, because of to the wear and tear between the connecting components and the subsequent response. In this paper, a new type of wire cutting π type spring is designed and manufactured, which solves the problem that traditional piezostack dispensers can not get the high operating frequency. In the structural design of π type spring, the stiffness of the reset spring is studied, and the output displacement characteristics of the reset spring are verified. Finally, we established the glue test system, and the point spray test is carried out on the fuse breaker and glycerol alcohol mixture at its operating frequency of 666 Hz. The mass of the fuse is measured by an electronic scale and its mass distribution is 3.08 mg (±2.5%). The diameter of the glycerol alcohol mixture sprayed by dispensing can reach 217.3 µm. By analyzing the mass and size of the glue point, it is verified that the piezoelectric dispenser with π-type reset spring can achieve high-frequency dispensing accuracy and small drop size. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the case of a coastal power system with high wind power integration, the frequent occurrence of typhoons may threaten the structural safety of the network and induce rapid ramp events of wind power. This article proposes a dispatch strategy for a power system with high wind power integration under a typhoon environment, comprehensively considering the phenomena and problems that occur in real typhoon disasters. First, the fragility curve of the tower is modeled considering the joint effects of wind and rain. Second, a filtering technique is adopted to enhance the effects of the high outage probability towers on network reliability. Third, a wind power curtailment strategy that restricts the extremely rapid ramp of wind power during typhoons is developed. Finally, both the curtailment strategy of wind power and the structural failure of the network are incorporated into the risk-based dispatch strategy during typhoon events. Analysis of the test system validates that the proposed dispatch strategy can improve the resilience of power systems during typhoons. Furthermore, the proposed method can also be used in other scenarios under extreme weather conditions, such as ice coating in power networks in which structural failures also occur frequently. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, a multi-step model is proposed to predict the average size of stabilized oil droplets in Pickering emulsions considering the characteristics, participation ratio, three-phase contact angle, and aggregation/agglomeration of nanostabilizers. As the first step, a novel model is proposed to define the size and volume fraction of the aggregated/agglomerated domains based on the thermal conduction coefficient of water/nanostabilizer suspensions. Next, the average radius of the stabilized oil droplets is predicted using another designed model considering the content of involved nanostabilizers and their penetration depth inside the oil phase. Three different OX-50 silica nanoparticles (bare, homogenously modified (HM) and Janus) are used as stabilizers in Pickering emulsions. Janus nanoparticles are synthesized using a one-step desymmetrization process and the characteristics of the products are verified based on their behavior in the water/chloroform dual-phase system and FTIR test results. The results of the multi-step model are compared to the actual average radius of the stabilized oil droplets defined using the light-microscopy and FE-SEM tests. It was found that the proposed model is acceptably accurate in predicting the average size of the oil droplets in the systems containing bare and HM nanoparticles however, the unique behavior of Janus nanoparticles causes an overprediction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Batteries with a limited lifespan have gradually failed to meet the development needs of some low-power electronic products. Harvesting wind energy to power the above devices has been a promising way. Facing the time-varying characteristics of wind direction and velocity in the natural environment, an efficient orientation-adaptive energy harvester (OAEH) based on the piezoelectric effect is proposed. An experimental test system is established to probe into the output and adaptive performances of the OAEH. The experimental results indicate that improving the inertia of the tray can abate the initial wind velocity and enhance the output power to a certain extent. The relative deviation (γ) of power integration areas at different inclinations is less than 3%. The harvester has 364.86% enhancement in average power integration area comparing that with the fixed shaft. Besides, the OAEH can drive a monitoring device with a display screen and integrated sensors, which can be utilized to monitor the condition of the bridge, flyover, and so on. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Designing an effective, robust controller is vital for regulating system frequency corresponding to the load demand variations in a traditional interlinked power system. Hence, load frequency control plays a critical role in countering load disturbances and minimizing unscheduled power flow between interlinked areas. This paper proposes a novel teaching-learning optimization (TLO) based dual-loop load frequency control approach aided by fractional-order proportional-integral-derivative controller (FO-PID). The inner control loop of the presented method employs internal model control and model approximation. On the other hand, the external loop uses a TLO-tuned FO-PID controller to improve the outcomes of the proposed approach. The proposed method is validated using a 1-area multi-stage reheat hydrothermal power system (RHTPS), 2-area reheat thermal power system (RTPS), and 2-area multi-stage RHTPS. The robustness of the proposed method is demonstrated by executing sensitivity analysis. It is established from the simulation results that the proposed approach enhances the dynamic response of the test systems substantially. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Inclusion of automatic voltage regulators (AVRs) and distributed generation units (DGs) in the distribution system (DS) will enhance the system performance if allocated optimally. Optimal allocation of AVRs and DGs is a complex combinatorial problem requiring a powerful optimization algorithm for solving the optimization problem. This paper proposes an improved pareto multi-objective backtracking search algorithm (IPMBSA) based Pareto front approach for optimal siting and sizing of DGs and AVRs. The proposed approach considers DS technical (such as minimizing of voltage deviation, power losses and voltage stability index), cost and emission indices as objective functions while solving the allocation problem. To evaluate the performance of the proposed approach, five different operational scenarios are considered for analysis on IEEE 33-bus, IEEE 69-bus and practical 43-bus Indian distribution test systems. The effectiveness of the proposed approach is highlighted by comparison of results obtained using a multi-objective approach based on NSGA-II and weighted sum method (WSM). Results propounded that allocation of DG along with AVR yielded better DS performance compared to the scenarios where only DG or AVRs are placed in DS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Non-serviceable systems are often constrained by three requirements that address the need to reliably fulfill its mission: A lifetime requirement, a reliability at end-of-life requirement, and a requirement to avoid single point failures, generally through redundancy. From a requirements engineering perspective, a significant question is whether the requirements to use redundant solutions are necessary for space system design when a reliability target has been specified. Does a requirement to use redundancy impose a specific solution with no other effect on need satisfaction? If so, can it be deleted with no adverse effect on mission success? To answer these questions, the impact of different redundancy configurations on mission success are studied, using a space system as a test case. Mission success is modeled as a function that accrues value over the satellite's operational life. The different redundancy configurations are then compared for different rates of value accumulation over the space system's operational life, which encompass reasonable value accumulation rates observed in most real-life space missions. The numerical results reveal that when all design alternatives provide the same reliability at end of life at the same cost, systems that employ redundancy have a higher expected value than a system without redundancy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Portable and efficient removal of volatile particles from motor vehicle exhaust is essential for the accurate measurement of involatile solid particle number concentration in on-board emission measurement systems. For this purpose, a volatile particle remover with a combination of hot dilution and a thermodenuder (referred to as VPR-TD) was designed. The flow and temperature fields of the VPR-TD were simulated and analyzed by COMSOL Multiphysics software by which experimental verification and system performance tests were performed. The simulation showed that the effective heating length and residence time of the VPR-TD increased by 6 cm and 25%, respectively, as the dilution ratio increased from 1 to 10 at a total flow of 0.6 L/min at 350 °C. In addition, the experimental results showed that the penetration efficiency of 100 nm sodium chloride (non-volatile particles) in the VPR-TD was higher than 70.4%, and the removal efficiency of 30 nm tetracontane (volatile particles) was higher than 99% at a total flow 0.6 L/min, heating temperature 350 °C, and dilution ratios of 5 and 10. In summary, when the dilution ratio was set to 10, the device met the requirements of the Light Duty Vehicle Emission Limits and Measurement Methods (CHINA 6) for a volatile particle remover. At dilution ratio of 5, VPR-TD may be used as a pre-conditioning unit in portable emissions measurement systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The optimization of the distribution system is one of the most important operations for running an efficient power system. At the distribution stage, a wide variety of development frameworks are achieved, including optimum reconfiguration, optimal positioning of distributed generators and capacitors, and synthesis of all. The proposed approach for distribution system reconfiguration in the study eliminates the use of various types of radial distribution system (RDS) equipment to improve performance. In benchmark test systems, such as IEEE 33 bus RDS and 83 bus Taiwan power distribution company, a flower pollination algorithm is employed to reduce real power losses on the overall system. For the recommended technique, a prototype model of the distribution system for real-time implementation is also employed in the distribution network workstation. The proposed algorithm's performance reduces the search space, and the optimal solution is obtained with the least amount of running time. Abbreviations: RDS: radial distribution system; TPDC: Taiwan power distribution company; FPA: flower pollination algorithm; NFE: number of load flow executions; GA: genetic algorithm; RAG: refined genetic algorithm; ITS: improved TS algorithm; HSA: harmony search algorithm; COM: complementarity methods; SA: simulated annealing; PGSA: plant growth simulation algorithm; PTS1: proto type system 1; PTS2: proto type system 2; BM_TS1: benchmark test system 1; BM_TS2: benchmark test system 2 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper introduces the application of swarm intelligence in relaying to detect symmetrical faults during power swing. The swarm intelligence assistance reduces the computational burden and enhances the overall reliability of the fault detection scheme irrespective of the system conditions. For this purpose, a simple fault detector using instantaneous three-phase active power is implemented and particle swarm optimization (PSO) assistance is provided to identify the optimal value of threshold elimination factor (TEF) by considering fault and swing parameters as decision variables. In the optimal TEF search, the detailed coefficients of frequency components of the input signal are extracted using wavelet transform by generating the solutions using PSO. As a result, a direct trip command is activated with the help of the swarm-assisted wavelet TEF technique. The PSO-assisted proposed method is fast and secure in detecting faults during stressed conditions. Later, the performance of the proposed method is tested on numerous fault cases simulated on a two-bus test power system model using MATLAB/Simulink(R). Results clearly show that using the proposed method faults can be detected within a quarter cycle during the power swing. The comparative assessment with the existing methods confirms the effectiveness of the proposed scheme. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article explores the use of generative AI systems in educational testing, such as OpenAI's GPT and Google's Bard. While these systems have the potential to streamline test development and reduce costs, there are concerns about maintaining the quality and fairness of the tests. The article highlights the limitations of generative AI, such as the lack of contextual understanding and the inability to generate nuanced test items. It stresses the importance of involving subject matter experts in the development and evaluation process to address these issues. The article recommends close collaboration between AI scientists, psychometricians, and subject matter experts, as well as ongoing evaluation and refinement of AI-generated test items to ensure validity, reliability, and fairness. [Extracted from the article]

In the sport literature, strategic self-talk has been shown to improve task performance, and these effects have been partly attributed to enhanced attention. Furthermore, research has shown that strategic instructional self-talk can help counter the adverse effects of ego depletion on attention tasks. Extending this line of research, the purpose of this study was to examine the effects of strategic instructional self-talk on a divided attention task following physical exhaustion. Participants of 60 undergraduate students with a mean age of 20.23 years were randomly assigned into experimental and control groups. Following a short familiarisation with task procedures, participants were induced into a state of physical exhaustion through a running protocol on a treadmill. Immediately after the conclusion of the physical task, they performed the divided attention test on the Vienna Test System, during which participants of the experimental group were instructed to use strategic intructional self-talk cues. The analysis of the final assessment showed that the self-talk group had a higher percentage of correct responses and faster reaction times than the control group. The results of this study suggest that strategic instructional self-talk can help counter the potentially negative consequences of physical exhaustion on attention. The findings provide further support for an attentional interpretation of self-talk effectiveness, suggesting that improvements in attention functions can be a plausible mechanism for explaining the facilitative effects of self-talk on task performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article discusses the challenges and advancements in the field of medical implants. It highlights the potential of new technologies, such as additive manufacturing and bioelectronics, to create personalized and responsive medical devices. However, the article also acknowledges the barriers posed by adverse immune responses and implant-associated infections. It emphasizes the need for better control of immune responses and the development of implant surfaces optimized for individual patients. The article also discusses the importance of considering the specific target organ and patient characteristics when modifying medical implants. Additionally, it mentions the need for dedicated test systems to detect potential adverse reactions and improve pre-implantation diagnostics. The article concludes by mentioning the potential of new imaging technologies, machine learning, and humanized mice models to further advance the field of medical devices. [Extracted from the article]

This article discusses the calculation and enhancement of available transfer capability (ATC) of different test systems with a unique condition. ATC is a strongly nonlinear AC optimal power-flow-based problem. In this article, biogeography-based optimization (BBO), grey wolf optimizer (GWO), selfish herd optimizer (SHO) and chaotic-selfish herd optimizer (CSHO) algorithm frameworks are implemented on different IEEE test systems, namely, IEEE 30-bus and IEEE 118-bus and Indian Northern Region Power Grid (NRPG) 246 bus systems under a variant condition to calculate ATC and enchantment of the ATC with and without unified power flow controller (UPFC) and contingency cases. The authors also propose to implement the concept of opposition-based learning (OBL), which is integrated with the SHO algorithm in this paper for improving the convergence characteristic and simulation study concerning the limitation of the conventional SHO algorithm. The effectiveness and feasibility of the proposed oppositional SHO (OSHO) algorithm are also tested with the help of the aforesaid test systems, and Friedman's test also has been performed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The brake system of a mine hoist is the key component and the last barrier to ensure the safe operation in a mine. Based on the vibration and the sound signals of a test brake system, this paper studied the characteristics of the signals and the relationship between both the signals and tries to propose a new fault diagnosis method for the brake system. First, the vibration and sound signals of the test set-up under different braking conditions at different brake disc rotation speeds were collected. Then, the vibration and sound signals were filtered and reduced by the wavelet packet, and the reconstructed signal eigenvalues were extracted. The results showed that the characteristics of vibration and sound signals in fault state and normal state can be drawn. It shows the combined fault diagnosis method based on vibration and sound signals can see a wide application to the fault diagnosis for mine hoist brake system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]