Browse Articles

AI driven fault diagnosis approach for stator turn to turn faults in induction motors

Abstract Induction motors (IMs) are vital in industrial applications. Although all motor faults can disrupt its operation significantly, stator turn to turn faults (ITFs) are the most challenging one due to their detection difficulties. This paper introduces an AI-based approach to detect ITFs and assess their severity. A simulation based on an accurate mathematical model of the IM under ITFs is employed to generate the training data. Recognizing that ITFs directly affect the motor’s current balance, complex current unbalance coefficient is identified and used as the key feature for detecting ITFs. Since unbalanced supply voltage (USV) can also disrupt current balance, the AI models are trained to account for USV by incorporating complex voltage unbalance coefficient that helps to distinguish between ITF-induced and voltage-induced imbalances. After feature extraction, the AI models are trained and validated with simulation data. The approach’s effectiveness is further tested using an experimental setup, where measurements from motors under various fault conditions, including USV scenarios, are considered. The results indicate that the gradient boosting model outperforms other ML models in detecting ITFs in IMs and assessing their severity. In the pursuit of achieving highest possible performance, DNN is tested and compared with ML models. The study reveals that DNN demonstrates superior performance in all tested scenarios including USV making DNN the top performer that to be used in the proposed approach. The proposed AI-based approach based on DNN offers high accuracy in fault detection and can effectively distinguish between ITFs and USV-induced anomalies, maintaining low estimation errors and robust performance across different operational conditions.

Author Correction: Impact of EV interfacing on peak-shelving and frequency regulation in a microgrid

Seasonal variation effect on different Physalis peruviana L. (Solanaceae) waste extracts and investigation of their efficacy against Culex pipiens and Musca domestica

Indoor air pollution inequalities among children and adolescents in Germany: an analysis of repeated cross-sectional data from GerES and KiGGS

Abstract Indoor air pollution may harm child health. Indoor air pollution inequalities among children and adolescents is under-researched. We analyzed associations between equivalized disposable income, socioeconomic status, and history of migration with benzene, toluene, xylene, limonene, and formaldehyde among children and adolescents in Germany. Using pooled data from the German Environmental Survey (GerES IV, GerES V) and the German Health Interview and Examination Survey for Children and Adolescents (KiGGS Baseline, KiGGS Wave 2) (N = 1117, aged 3–14 years), six out of fifteen random intercept models revealed statistically significant findings. An increase of one standard deviation in equivalized disposable income was associated with 5% lower benzene concentrations (exp(ß): 0.95, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.91, 0.99). Higher socioeconomic status was associated with a 10% decrease in benzene (exp(ß): 0.90, 95% CI 0.87, 0.94) and a 6% decrease in toluene (exp(ß): 0.94, 95% CI 0.89, 0.99). Having a parental history of migration was associated with 24% higher concentrations of formaldehyde (exp(ß): 1.24, 95% CI 1.07, 1.43) and 102% increased limonene concentrations (exp(ß): 2.02, 95% CI 1.61, 2.55). Subgroup analysis from urban municipalities showed only slight differences. Although results varied, they highlight that indoor air pollution is unequally distributed among children and adolescents in Germany.

Effect of column and pile configuration and dimension on shear performance of reinforced concrete pile caps

Abstract Despite extensive research on reinforced concrete (RC) pile caps, the influence of column and pile configuration and dimensions on their shear performance remains unexplored. This study investigates the structural behavior of RC pile caps through experimental and numerical analyses, focusing on how variations in column and pile geometry affect shear capacity. Two pile cap specimens (700 mm long × 300 mm wide) with heights of 250 mm (SB1) and 350 mm (SB2) were tested under shear-dominated conditions. Both were supported by two square piles (200 × 200 mm) and loaded centrally via a square column (200 × 200 mm). The study reports crack patterns, ultimate shear load, load-displacement behavior, elastic stiffness, and energy absorption capacity. A validated 3D finite element model was developed to parametrically analyze rectangular/circular columns and piles with dimensions ranging from 0.2d to d (where d = pile cap width). The findings indicate that failure modes were consistently shear-dominated and remained unaffected by variations in column or pile configuration and size. Increasing the rectangular column length from 0.2d to d enhanced the ultimate load capacity by 108% and energy absorption by 100%. Similarly, increasing the circular column diameter from 0.2d to d improved these metrics by 348% and 373%, respectively. Widening the rectangular pile from 0.2d to d resulted in a 34% increase in ultimate load capacity. Overall, the study demonstrates that larger column and pile dimensions significantly enhance shear performance, with circular configurations yielding superior improvements. These insights offer practical guidance for optimizing pile cap design.

Concurrent photocatalytic degradation of organic pollutants using smart magnetically cellulose-based metal organic framework nanocomposite

Abstract Industrial activities, especially textiles and cosmetics, release harmful wastewater, threatening the environment and human health. Photocatalysis has emerged as an effective, eco-friendly solution for these issues, particularly using metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) for water treatment. This study explores the performance, computational analysis, and mechanistic behavior of a novel magnetically responsive cellulose-based metal-organic framework (MOF) nanocomposite, DAC@PdA@FM, for the simultaneous photocatalytic degradation of Toluidine Blue O (TBO), Crystal Violet (CV), and Sunset Yellow FCF (E110) dyes. The material was synthesized using a controlled oxidation method and characterized using FTIR, XRD, EDX, SEM, TGA techniques and PPPS saturation magnetization properties. The uptake capacity of DAC@PdA@FM toward organic dyes as TBO,  CV, and E110 from water, achieving reductions of 988.75, 1242.5, and 497 mg/g, respectively, within short time frames.The kinetic and isotherm studies were best fitted by PSO and the Langmuir models due to the higher correlation coefficient (R2 ≥ 0.999) and the lower error functions. The nanocomposite exhibited enhanced reusability and separation efficiency due to its superparamagnetic nature. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations confirmed the electronic structure and charge transfer mechanisms. Comparative analysis with previous studies confirmed superior degradation efficiency. The results also suggest that the MOF: DAC@PdA@FM nanocomposite possesses notable antimicrobial activity,  particularly against gram-ve bacteria. These findings suggest that the MOF: DAC@PdA@FM nanocomposite is a promising applicant for wastewater treatment applications. The catalytic degradation mechanism for dyes on the prepared MOF:DAC@PdA@FM nanocomposite involves various interactions, including electrostatic attraction, pore-filling, π–π stacking, and hydrogen bonding. Also, The results suggest that utilizing pre-prepared MOF:DAC@PdA@FM nanocomposite could serve as a potent and efficient antimicrobial agent.

Optimal micro-grid battery scheduling within a comprehensive smart pricing scheme

Abstract The challenge of optimizing battery operating revenue while mitigating aging costs remains inadequately addressed in current literature. This paper introduces a novel cost–benefit approach for scheduling battery energy storage systems (BESS) within microgrids (MGs) that features smart grid attributes. The proposed comprehensive approach accounts for fluctuations of real-time pricing, demand charge tariffs, and battery degradation cost. Using the dynamic programming technique, a novel high-speed BESS scheduling optimization algorithm that incorporates a LiFePO4 battery degradation cost model is developed, achieving substantial monthly operational cost savings for the MG with a fine-grained sampling interval of nine minutes and execution time under one minute. The algorithm utilizes day-ahead forecasts for MG load profiles and photovoltaic output power, enabling the prediction of BESS’s optimal power profile a day in advance. The algorithm’s rapid execution enables real-time adaptability, allowing BESS scheduling to dynamically respond to grid fluctuations. The proposed approach outperforms existing methods in the literature, delivering MG operational cost savings ranging from 33.6% to 94.8% across various scenarios. Consequently, this approach enhances MG operational efficiency and provides significant cost savings.

Time-on-task and instructions help humans to keep up with AI: replication and extension of a comparison of creative performances

Abstract A growing number of studies have compared human and AI creative performance. These studies differ in AI chatbots, human populations, creativity tasks, and creativity indicators (e.g., originality, usefulness, elaboration). They mostly neglect psychological research on determinants of creative performance such as instructions or processing time. The present study contributes to the theoretical foundation and replicates a study comparing humans’ and AI’s creative output in the Alternate Uses Task. Building on established knowledge of creativity determinants, we modified the Alternate Uses Task’s instructions (call for quality AND quantity), provided more time for the human participants, and added a second task (Remote Associates Task). The Alternate Uses Task output was scored in two ways: the mean and maximum scores of each Alternate Uses Task item, both in terms of semantic distances and in terms of human rating scores. The result shows that AI’s mean scores were significantly higher in the original and modified Alternate Uses Task condition, maximum scores in the original Alternate Uses Task condition, and in the Remote Associates Task. No significant differences between humans and AI were found for the maximum scores in the modified Alternate Uses Task. We mainly replicated the original studies’ findings. Our study provides initial clues that the evaluation of creative performances depends on creativity indicators and approaches (instructions and time).

Multidimensional insights of electrochemical and quantum investigations of morpholinium cationic surfactants as corrosion inhibitors for carbon steel in acidic solution

Abstract Three novel morpholinium-cationic surfactants (coded: DCSM-8, DCSM-10, and DCSM-12) with chemical structure confirmed via FT-IR, HNMR, and mass analysis were applied for carbon steel (CS) corrosion control in acidic 4 M HCl solution. The investigated compounds decreased water surface tension (72 mN.m-1) to 19.85 mN.m-1 after the addition of DCSM-12. The surfactants mitigation performance was assessed via weight loss (W L ), potentiodynamic polarization (PDP) and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). The synthesized surfactants protected CS efficiently with higher inhibition efficiencies up to 97.029% at 1 × 10–3 M for DCSM-12 using PDP which also indicated that, the prepared surfactants inhibited both CS anodic and cathodic sites with cathodic dominant. EIS data showed higher CS resistance from 35.24 Ω.cm2 to 1245.54 Ω.cm2 after addition of 1 × 10–3 M for DCSM-12 with mitigation potency 97.17% which can be attributed to their adsorption process over CS surface forming a protective film layer that followed Langmuir adsorption isotherm reflecting the chemical adsorption affinity of the prepared mitigators with higher adsorption energy (ΔG*ads) values (> -40 kJ.mol-1). Also, the protection effect of the prepared inhibitor (DCSM-12) was confirmed using SEM (scanning electron microscopy) and EDX (energy-dispersive X-ray) showing improvement in CS surface morphology. The reactivity of the prepared surfactants and their mitigation role in CS deterioration were confirmed theoretically using DFT (density functional theory) and MCs (Monte Carlo simulations).

Astaxanthin mitigates diabetic cardiomyopathy and nephropathy in HF/HFr/STZ diabetic rats via modulating NOX4, fractalkine, Nrf2, and AP-1 pathways

Abstract This study investigated the effects of astaxanthin (ASTA) on diabetic cardiomyopathy (DCM) and nephropathy (DN) in rats. Type 2 diabetes was induced through a high-fat/high-fructose (HF/HFr) diet followed by a sub-diabetogenic dose streptozotocin injection. Diabetic rats were treated with ASTA at a dose of 100 mg/kg for four weeks. Serum markers of renal and cardiac function, oxidative stress parameters, and electrocardiographic (ECG) measurements were assessed. Diabetic control rats exhibited significant impairment in renal and cardiac functions, heightened oxidative stress, and altered ECG parameters. Treatment with ASTA (100 mg/kg) markedly improved these conditions, proven by reduction in serum urea, creatinine, cardiac creatine phosphokinase-MB (CK-MB), and LDH levels. Additionally, oxidative stress markers such as MDA, GSH, SOD, and NOX4 were restored in both heart and kidney tissues. Furthermore, ASTA was able to increase the cardiac and renal Fractalkine chemokine as well as attenuate the elevated Nrf2 and AP-1. ECG abnormalities were partially reversed, with enhancements in the QTc interval and ST segment height. The histopathological examination of cardiac and renal tissues confirmed these results. Finally, the forementioned promising observations suggest that ASTA may offer therapeutic potential in mitigating DCM and DN via modulation of NOX4, Fractalkine, Nrf2, and AP-1 Pathway, warranting further research into its mechanisms and clinical applicability.

Cymbopogon proximus Chiov’s extract improves insulin sensitivity in rats with dexamethasone-induced insulin resistance and underlying mechanisms

Abstract The worldwide prevalence of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is increasing swiftly. Cymbopogon proximus (C. proximus) is a wild herbaceous plant utilized as a potent remedy in Egyptian folk medicine, sometimes referred to as “Halfabar.” This study examined the hypoglycemic, hypolipidemic, and antioxidant properties of the methanolic extract from the aerial parts of C. proximus, as well as its impact on pancreatic tumour necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and Glucose Transporter-4 (GLUT4) in skeletal muscles within an experimental model of insulin resistance. Additionally, bioactive metabolites in the extract were analyzed via liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC/MS) technology. Insulin resistance was induced by administering 1 mg/kg of dexamethasone to rats over a period of 14 days. The rats received two doses of the extract: a low dose of 100 mg/kg body weight and a high dose of 200 mg/kg body weight, along with the reference drug; Metformin (M) at a dose of 40 mg/kg body weight, supplied once daily by gastric tube for 14 days. The treatment of dexamethasone led to a significant (P < 0.05) elevation in serum fasting glucose, fasting insulin, HOMA-IR, and pancreatic TNF-α, along with a significant (P < 0.05) reduction in GLUT4 expression in skeletal muscles. Both extract and reference treatments significantly (P < 0.05) mitigated these abnormalities. The highest dose of the extract exhibited a significantly (P < 0.05) greater antioxidant impact, a more pronounced reduction in insulin levels and HOMA-IR, as well as an enhanced rise in GLUT4 expression and insulin sensitivity index compared to the lowest dose and the M. Histopathological and immunohistochemical analyses corroborate the biochemical results. The LC–ESI–MS/MS profiling resulted in the characterization and tentative identification of 95 metabolites’ structures. Identified substances purported to possess anti-diabetic effect include apigenin, luteolin, tricin flavone glycosides, cyanidin, malvidin anthocyanin glycosides, and caffeic acid. These findings suggest that C. proximus can mitigate insulin resistance. Additional clinical trials are necessary to validate these findings and assess the extract’s effectiveness in human insulin resistance.

Vitamin D and omega-3 fatty acids attenuate MSG-induced neurodegeneration by modulating tau pathology, neuroinflammation, and VDR expression in rats

Abstract Monosodium glutamate (MSG)-induced excitotoxicity is a major factor contributing to cognitive decline and neurodegeneration. Given the well-established roles of vitamin D (Vit D) and omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (N-3 PUFAs), especially eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), in neuroprotection, the present study aimed at analyzing their possible neuroprotective efficacy against MSG-induced neurotoxicity in rats, concerning the behavioral performance, hippocampal histological integrity, and pathological protein accumulation, along with determination of the inflammatory marker levels and mRNA expression of vitamin D receptors (VDR) and other neurodegeneration-related genes. Fifty male Sprague Dawley rats were randomly allocated to a control, an MSG, and three treatment groups that received MSG and either Vit D or N-3 PUFA supplements in combinations or alone for 4 weeks. At the end of the study, five behavioral tests were conducted to assess cognitive functions, motor activity, and anxiety-related behaviors, and hippocampal tissues were analyzed for tau pathology, neuroinflammation, expression of VDR, and neurodegeneration-related markers. The results demonstrated that supplementation with Vit D (1 mcg/kg) and N-3 PUFAs (300 mg/kg EPA + DHA) profoundly attenuated MSG-induced neurodegeneration. The combined therapy decreased neuronal damage caused by MSG by 87% and tau pathology by 83%. The combined treatment further suppressed pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α: 52%; IL-6: 65%) and elevated anti-inflammatory IL-10 by 2.8-fold, demonstrating a dual anti-inflammatory action. A major upregulation of hippocampal VDR by 4.6-fold was noted, with stabilization of calcium homeostasis and normalization of caspase-3 and α-synuclein expression. Our findings confirm that Vit D and N-3 PUFAs exhibit substantial synergistic neuroprotective abilities that might be mediated through synergistic VDR upregulation, providing a promising dietary intervention against MSG-induced excitotoxicity and highlighting their broader implications for supporting cognitive health and mitigating the adverse effects of other neurotoxins.

Out-of-step detection for synchronous generators using electrical power analysis and Durbin Watson testing

Abstract Shunt faults may cause significant fluctuations in the electrical output of the Synchronous Generators (SGs), leading to a loss of synchronization with the remaining power network. Electrical power analysis and the Durbin Watson (DW) statistic can be manipulated to diagnose the instability of the power quality parameters, and to discern between synchronous and asynchronous running of the generator. In this research, the computational techniques serve as a proper foundation of intelligent relay to anticipate and detect the generator Out-of-Step (OOS) situation following the fault presence. The protection strategy can identify sudden variations in several electrical waves in the OOS conditions, such as phase voltage, current, active power, reactive power, and power angle. To verify the performance of the method, a power model with real parameter data of its components is built using the software package of the Alternative Transient Program (ATP). The advanced algorithm is carried out and analyzed using the MATLAB application. Simulation results and analysis show that the protection plan has the ability to recognize the OOS events upon which the protective relay emits a tripping signal to both the annunciation panel and the generator circuit breakers. Whereas, it remains idle under acceptable synchronization conditions. As a consequence, the OOS is rapidly announced before the second pole-slipping occurrence. Furthermore, the algorithm is robust during the stable power swings, and the property of the protection redundancy is provided in this strategy. Additionally, it has the capability of estimating both the instability time and the frequency rate of the unstable power swings.

Studying the electronic properties of SiO2/GO/Pb3O4/Bi2O3 composite structure

Abstract This study investigates the electronic properties of a proposed composite structure consisting of SiO2, Pb3O4, Bi2O3, and graphene oxide (GO) for glutamic acid (Glu) biosensing applications in aqueous media. Using Density Functional Theory (DFT) at B3LYP functional and SDD basis set, we examine the reactivity and electronic properties of the combination of these structures under weak and complex interaction scenarios with Glu. The study focuses on studying total dipole moments (TDM), HOMO/LUMO bandgaps, molecular electrostatic potential (MEP) maps, reactivity descriptors, and the density of states (DOS) for the proposed model molecules. The calculated TDMs and HOMO/LUMO bandgap energies highlight the highly reactive nature of the 3SiO2/GO/Pb3O4/Bi2O3 “complex” structure toward the surrounding species. This is because it has the highest TDM (up to 35.1 Debye) and the lowest bandgap energy (decline significantly to 0.158 eV). The MEP maps for the interaction between 3SiO2/GO/Pb3O4/Bi2O3 and Glu under the two proposed scenarios display markedly different MEP profiles, underscoring the substantial impact of the interaction type. Additionally, the interaction between 3SiO2/GO/Pb3O4/Bi2O3 “complex” structure and Glu exhibits the highest ionization potential, electron affinity, and electronegativity. The plotted DOS curves of the interaction between the proposed composite structure (both weak and complex forms) and the target analyte reveal that the unoccupied states begin to emerge slightly below − 4.0 eV and − 5.0 eV, then extend towards 0.0 eV, indicating potential excitation energies for electrons. These findings boost the potential of the proposed 3SiO2/GO/Pb3O4/Bi2O3 structure as a promising candidate for tailoring novel electrode materials for Glu biosensing applications, thereby advancing the development of effective biosensors.

CIDNP study of photoinduced electron transfer in His-Glu-Tyr-Gly peptide and its conjugate His-Gln(BP)-Tyr-Gly

Abstract Photoinduced intramolecular electron transfer (ET) is essential for understanding charge transport in biological and synthetic systems. This study examines ET in peptide His-Glu-Tyr-Gly (1) and the conjugate His-Gln(BP)-Tyr-Gly (2) with benzophenone (BP) as a photoactive electron acceptor and His or Tyr as donors. Time-resolved and field-dependent chemically induced dynamic nuclear polarization (CIDNP) techniques were employed to investigate ET mechanisms and kinetics. Peptide 1 with 3,3’,4,4’-tetracarboxy benzophenone as a photosensitizer initially forms two types of radical with radical center at either His or Tyr residue, the consequent intra- and intermolecular ET electron transfer from Tyr residue to the His radical takes place with rate constants ke(intra)=(1.5±0.5)×105 s− 1 and ke(inter)=(1.3±0.4)×107 M− 1s− 1 at pH 8.8. Conjugate 2 forms two types of biradicals under irradiation: with radical centers at Tyr and BP across the entire pH range, and with radical centers at His and BP at slightly basic pH. Field-dependent CIDNP revealed nonzero electronic exchange interaction (2Jex = − 8.78 mT) at acidic pH, indicating proximity between BP and Tyr radicals. Low-field CIDNP spectra showed strong emissive polarization patterns, with pH-dependent exchange interaction and biradical geometry. Notably, no electron transfer from tyrosine to histidine radicals was observed in the conjugate 2, distinguishing its behavior from peptide 1.

Wavelength-dependent photodissociation of iodomethylbutane

Abstract Ultrashort XUV pulses of the Free-Electron-LASer in Hamburg (FLASH) were used to investigate laser-induced fragmentation patterns of the prototypical chiral molecule 1-iodo-2-methyl-butane ( $$\hbox {C}_5$$ $$\hbox {H}_{11}$$ I) in a pump-probe scheme. Ion velocity-map images and mass spectra of optical-laser-induced fragmentation were obtained for subsequent FEL exposure with photon energies of 63 eV and 75 eV. These energies specifically address the iodine 4d edge of neutral and singly charged iodine, respectively. The presented ion spectra for two optical pump-laser wavelengths, i.e., 800 nm and 267 nm, reveal substantially different cationic fragment yields in dependence on the wavelength and intensity. For the case of 800-nm-initiated fragmentation, the molecule dissociates notably slower than for the 267 nm pump. The results underscore the importance of considering optical-laser wavelength and intensity in the dissociation dynamics of this prototypical chiral molecule that is a promising candidate for future studies of its asymmetric nature.

Statistical modeling of mutagenic azo dye adsorption on bagasse activated carbon

Abstract The current study investigates the development and characterization of sustainable activated carbons (ACs) via chemo-thermal activation from the hull and core of sugarcane bagasse as a viable and renewable substitute for commercial ACs. Characterize ACs using XRD, FTIR, SEM, etc. The sorption kinetics of methylene blue (MB) onto AC(H) were well described by a pseudo-second-order model. Also, the controlling step in the MB sorption process was related to several intervening diffusion sorts, including intra-particle ones. The MB equilibrium data were also analyzed using linear and non-linear forms of Langmuir, Freundlich, and Temkin isotherms, revealing a better fit of Langmuir, with R2 values > 0.97 in both modes. With adsorption capacities (qmax = 357.14 and 389.4 mg/g) in linear and non-linear modes, orderly. The activation energy (EDR) of 550.8 and 2500 J/mol in non-linear and linear further supports the dominance of chemisorption, implying the formation of chemical bonds between the MB and the functional groups present in the sorbent material. The spontaneous and exothermic nature of the MB sorption process at 291–323 K was confirmed by the thermodynamic parameters ΔH°, ΔS°, and ΔG°. The design expert program suggested 17 numerical possibilities for the maximum dye removal at the 99% desirability level using ANOVA within the experimental parameter range. The total cost of producing 1.0 g of AC(H) is estimated at 0.041 USD. These findings underscore the potential of AC(H) as a highly efficient adsorbent for MB removal, positioning it as a strong candidate for wastewater treatment applications.

A longitudinal analysis on alcohol consumption in patients with cancer undergoing psycho-oncological treatment

Abstract The negative impact of alcohol consumption on cancer development and progression is well-established in oncologic research, yet it receives surprisingly little attention from patients with cancer, the public, and even oncology professionals. A cancer diagnosis can lead to significant psychological distress, including high levels of depression and anxiety. For patients with cancer experiencing high levels of psychological burden, psycho-oncological care is available to help manage these symptoms and the overall impact of their condition. Alcohol consumption can serve as a coping mechanism for psychological stress. However, there is limited knowledge about the alcohol consumption patterns among this particularly vulnerable group of patients with cancer, as well as the patient- and disease-related factors associated with drinking. Patients with cancer are particularly susceptible to the harmful effects of alcohol. The aim of this study is to investigate the prevalence of potentially risky alcohol consumption among patients with cancer receiving psycho-oncological care over a six-month period and to identify sociodemographic, health-related, and psychosocial factors that may predict alcohol consumption after a cancer diagnosis. We conducted a secondary analysis using data from 300 patients with cancer (72 % female, mean age 52.74 years) treated at the outpatient clinic of the University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf in Germany. Between 2013 and 2021 demographic, medical, and psychosocial information was collected using self-report questionnaires. A generalized longitudinal linear mixed model was used to determine the prevalence of risky and potentially harmful drinking behavior (AUDIT-C ≥ 2 for women and ≥ 3 for men) among patients with cancer as well as to identify patient characteristics associated with alcohol consumption. The results show that approximately 70% of the patients continued drinking after their cancer diagnosis, despite the known detrimental effects of alcohol on prognosis. At both time points, around 40 to 50% of female and male patients reported potentially harmful drinking behaviors (T0 (beginning of psychosocial treatment): 49.1% of female, 38.1% of male patients; T1 (6 months later): 41.2% of female and 42.9% of male patients). A higher number of comorbidities (OR = 0.707; 95% CI: 0.567–0.883), older age (OR = 0.983, 95% CI: 0.967–0.999, and higher levels of depressive symptoms (OR = 0.952, 95% CI: 0.907–0.998) were significantly associated with lower odds of risky alcohol consumption over the six-month period. In contrast, higher anxiety levels (OR = 1.075, 95% CI: 1.021–1.132) were associated with an increased likelihood of risky drinking. The significant proportion of patients with cancer consuming alcohol at levels that may worsen their cancer prognosis highlights the need for improved patient education and guidelines. The results can help identify high-risk patients who require close monitoring of their drinking behaviors during their survival period, and inform the implementation of better alcohol control measures in cancer care. By understanding alcohol consumption patterns and associated factors, we aim to promote healthier behaviors and improve treatment outcomes for patients with cancer in psycho-oncological care.

Adaptive overcurrent protection considering fault current limiters effect

Abstract Due to the rise in power consumption in recent years, the rated capacity of the power system has increased, resulting in an increase in the presence of Distributed Generators (DGs) in electrical networks. As a result, short-circuit currents surge when shunt faults occur. Fault Current Limiters (FCLs) are an effective way to suppress fault currents in the power systems. On the other hand, FCLs have an impact on the response speed of the protective devices, such as over-current relays (OCRs), which increase the relay operating time, raising the electrical and mechanical stresses on the system equipment. This paper presents an adaptive OCR algorithm considering the FCLs effect without any delay time. The proposed algorithm includes two modules: (1) a Z-score algorithm based on both the mean and the standard deviation values of the input current data, which is used to detect fault conditions, and (2) tripping characteristic curves based on the current Mean Ratio, which are applied to estimate the appropriate operating time of the adaptive OCR. To verify the method performance, a power system with real parameters is simulated on the Alternative Transient Program platform, and the algorithm procedure is implemented in the MATLAB program. Extensive simulation studies of load changes and various fault types are conducted, encompassing a wide range of fault initiation angles, fault resistances, and fault zones. The quantitative findings of these studies are analyzed in the presence and absence of FCLs/DGs. The simulation results indicate that the proposed algorithm can operate online and adjust its operating time settings automatically. As a consequence, it is able to detect fault instances upon which the relay sends a tripping flag, yet remains inactive under normal operating conditions. The algorithm speed and sensitivity are controllable using a moving data window size. Moreover, it is characterized by being easy to use, reliable, and accurate. Furthermore, the Z-score of the phase current can be used to identify the faulty phase and classify the fault type. In addition, the algorithm can be integrated with other digital protection and automation systems to be applied in conventional and smart grids.

Objective and subjective assessment of back shape and function in persons with and without low back pain

Abstract Individuals with chronic low back pain (cLBP) may self-report about impairment of their back shape and function. As classical clinical diagnostic modalities seem to provide limited information on the pathogenesis of cLBP, interest has shifted to a more comprehensive approach of diagnosing cLBP. Self-reported outcome measurements in the form of either questionnaires or as part of clinical interview have gained interest. In theory, these self-reported assessments on one’s LBP provide the clinician with substantial information regarding the dominance of specific factors in a rather complex bio-psycho-social interplay of factors leading to cLBP. In order to analyze how well self-reported impairment (SRI) corresponds with objective measures, we evaluated the association between SRI and objectively measured back shape and function. In a cross-sectional study, we included 914 participants (207 asymptomatic, 480 non-chronic LBP (ncLBP), 227 cLBP). Participants were categorized into three groups: asymptomatic participants did not report back pain. Participants with back pain lasting for 12 weeks or more were categorized as cLBP patients, while participants with back pain for less than 12 weeks were classified as non-chronic LBP patients (ncLBP). Back function was quantified using finger-to-floor distance (FFD), Ott and Schober test, and 30 s sit-to-stand test (STS). Back shape and function were measured in standing position using a computer-assisted medical device. SRI was quantified during a clinical interview using a numerical 10–score-scale (1: unrestricted, 10: severely restricted). Higher SRI was associated with worse performance in every clinical test. Effect estimates ranged from small (Ott test: β = −0.05, CI −0.09–0.00, η2 = 0.01; p = 0.05; Schober test: β = 0.08, CI −0.13 −0.04, η2 = 0.01, p < 0.01) to moderate (FFD: β = 1.66, CI 1.27–2.19, η2 = 0.05, p = 0.05; STS: β = −0.08, CI −0.82, CI −1.06–−0.59, η2 = p < 0.01) in participants with ncLBP and cLBP. Higher SRI was associated with pathological back shape (hyperkyphosis, β = −0.03, CI = −0.29–0.51, η2 = 0.01; p = 0.58 and hyperlordosis, β = 0.35, CI 0.04–0.65, η2 = 0.02, p = 0.03) as well as attenuation of range of motion in the frontal and sagittal planes in every direction except for the thoracic range of extension. Effect sizes were small (η2 = 0.01–0.04). This study demonstrated an association of SRI with objective back shape and function. Participants with ncLBP seem to have the highest correspondence between objective evaluation and SRI of back shape an function. In the future, these associations can be used to further personalize both diagnostic and therapeutic modalities for individuals suffering from LBP rather than generalizing treatment options.