Communication Standards Research Articles

Integration of distributed PV into smart grids: A comprehensive analysis for Germany

Modern smart grids typically combine physical and communication networks for efficient information exchange and innovative applications. Aligned with digitalization and advancements in smart grids, the integration of photovoltaic (PV) systems comprises a variety of regulatory and technological aspects. However, no previous study has conducted an extensive and systematic analysis of the PV-grid integration framework, particularly for one country. To fill this gap, this paper uses Germany as an example to present a comprehensive, state-of-the-art analysis of integrating distributed PV systems into smart grids, focusing on the regulation and technical implementation of the German Smart Meter Infrastructure and PV control interfaces. Starting from a standardization perspective, this analysis utilizes the Smart Grid Architecture Model to identify crucial roles, components and processes specifically in Germany. Furthermore, it outlines the current implementation of PV integration into distribution networks at a national level. The results of this study show the overall complexity of PV integration in the smart grid context, confirm the feasibility of the German integration approach, and highlight the necessity of deploying standardized information models and communication technologies. These key findings can help market participants with different roles to identify potential technical bottlenecks or other critical points in the regulation and technical implementation. For instance, the proposed in-depth analysis framework provides an orientation for characterizing the PV integration or, more generally, the grid integration scenario of renewables in other countries.

Classification and Communication of Critical Findings in Emergency Radiology: A Scoping Review

PurposeTo identify the published standards for the classification and communication of critical actionable findings in emergency radiology and the associated facilitators and barriers to communication and message management or dissemination of such findings. Materials and methodsSearch terms for resources pertaining to critical findings (CFs) in emergency radiology were applied to two databases (PubMed, Embase). Screening of hits using the following pre-established inclusion and exclusion criteria were performed by three analysts with subsequent consensus discussion for discrepancies: (1) the resources include any standards for the classification and communication of imaging findings as critical, or (2) the resource discusses any facilitators to the communication of CFs, or (3) the resource discusses any barriers to the communication of CFs. Resources with explicit focus on a pediatric population or predominant focus on artificial intelligence or natural language processing were omitted. Accompanying gray literature search was used to expand included resources. Data extraction included year, country, resource type, scope or purpose, participants, context, standards to identifying or communicating CFs, facilitators and barriers, method type, recommendations, applicability, and disclosures. ResultsSeventy-six resources were included in the final analysis, including 16 societal or commission guidelines. Among the guidelines, no standardized list of CFs was identified, with typical recommendations suggesting application of a local policy. Communication standards included direct closed-loop communication for high acuity findings, with more flexible communication channels for less acute findings. Applied interventions for CFs management most frequently fell into four categories: electronic (n = 10), hybrid (ie, electronic or administrative) (n = 3), feedback or education (n = 5), and administrative (n = 4). ConclusionThere are published standards, policies and interventions for the management of CFs in emergency radiology. Three-tier stratification (eg, critical, urgent, incidental) based on time sensitivity and severity is most common with most CFs necessitating closed-loop communication. Awareness of systemic facilitators and barriers should inform local policy development. Electronic and administrative communication pathways are useful adjuncts. Further research should offer comparative analyses of different CF interventions with regards to cost-effectiveness, notification time, and user feedback.

Performance Analysis of Filtered OFDM using MLE for Wireless Communication Networks

Introduction: OFDM has evolved as an effective modulation format for 4G mobile network technologies, Long-Term Evolution, and Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave Access. OFDM is the modulation technique adopted for communication standards such as DSL, wireless LAN, DVB, and DAB. However, because CP-OFDM has considerable out-of-band emission that may interfere with transmissions in adjacent bands and applies a single set of parameters to the whole band to fulfill a given service, it is unable to accommodate the diversity of services. The objective of the research is to develop a novel waveform with better adaptability than CP-OFDM that employs filters to increase spectrum containment. In this view, an FIR filter that uses the Blackman window function to lessen the OOBE is proposed in this manuscript. Filtered OFDM is sensitive to carrier frequency offset (CFO). CFO increases the Inter-Carrier Interference (ICI) in F-OFDM systems. However, research work that combines the CFO compensation technique with filtered OFDM has not been listed in the literature so far. Methods: In this paper, Maximum likelihood estimation is used to cancel the ICI caused by the CFO. The high PAPR of filtered OFDM is one of its drawbacks. The amplitude clipping method is used to reduce the PAPR. The distortion caused by amplitude clipping is prevented by filters used in the FOFDM system. Highlights: • A novel waveform addressing OOBE issues in OFDM is developed for 4G wireless communication networks. • An innovative solution using MLE is proposed to address the challenges faced by the filtered OFDM system due to the CFO. • Article addresses the high PAPR problem of filtered OFDM. Results: The performance of filtered OFDM with amplitude clipping is analyzed in terms of BER, PSD, and PAPR over the AWGN channel. Conclusion: Simulation results show that, when compared to the traditional OFDM system, such a combined method effectively suppresses PAPR while maintaining good BER (Bit Error Rate) and OOBE performance.

Evaluation of electric field (E) exposure levels and its relationship with the sleep quality of residents around the BTS antennas in Sabzevar, Iran.

Mobile devices and base transceiver station (BTS) are the main sources of human exposure to radio frequency electromagnetic fields (RF-EMFs). Therefore, the aim of the present study was to evaluate the levels of exposure to RF-EMF in three different time intervals and three different distances from BTS antennas in Sabzevar. Additional goals were to investigate the electric field (E) difference between different microenvironments, between the suburbs and downtown, and evaluating the sleep quality of residents around BTS antennas at different distances. The results showed significant differences between the values of E Avg and E max Avg at different times (T1, T2, and T3), different distances (50, 100, and 300m) from BTS antennas, and between BTS antennas located in the suburbs and downtown. No significant differences were observed between the values of E Avg and E max Avg in terms of microenvironments. Poor sleep quality (>5) was recorded in the residents around the BTS antennas at different distances, and a significant difference was observed between the sleep quality of the residents at a distance of ˂100m compared to the residents at a distance of ˃300m. The recorded levels of E in all places and times were below the human safety limits set by the Iranian National Standardization Organization, the Information and Communication Technologies Authority and the International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection, indicating the absence of potential risk due to exposure to E in the study area.

Demonstration of microwave single-shot quantum key distribution

Security of modern classical data encryption often relies on computationally hard problems, which can be trivialized with the advent of quantum computers. A potential remedy for this is quantum communication which takes advantage of the laws of quantum physics to provide secure exchange of information. Here, quantum key distribution (QKD) represents a powerful tool, allowing for unconditionally secure quantum communication between remote parties. At the same time, microwave quantum communication is set to play an important role in future quantum networks because of its natural frequency compatibility with superconducting quantum processors and modern near-distance communication standards. To this end, we present an experimental realization of a continuous-variable QKD protocol based on propagating displaced squeezed microwave states. We use superconducting parametric devices for generation and single-shot quadrature detection of these states. We demonstrate unconditional security in our experimental microwave QKD setting. The security performance is shown to be improved by adding finite trusted noise on the preparation side. Our results indicate feasibility of secure microwave quantum communication with the currently available technology in both open-air (up to ~ 80 m) and cryogenic (over 1000 m) conditions.

Comparative Study Between the OSI Model and the TCP/IP Model: Architecture and Protocols in Computer Networking Systems

In the world of computing and networking, it is critical to understand the theoretical framework that underlies data communication to ensure the best performance and compatibility between various systems. Both the Open Systems Interconnection (OSI) and Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) models offer a comprehensive perspective on how the entire communication operation is separated into various layers, with each layer assigned particular roles and functions. This paper compares the OSI and TCP/IP models in terms of the functionalities and responsibilities of the various layers in each model, with an emphasis on how these layers work together to ensure effective and robust network communications. The paper covers encapsulating and decapsulating processes, managing sessions, and ensuring reliable data transmission. The TCP/IP model focuses on practical application with four main layers, while the OSI model has seven detailed layers that provide a theoretical and structured approach. The goal of both models is reliable and standardized communication, which in turn promotes interoperability in a variety of network environments.

Pragmatic Trial of Palliative Care Support Using Extension for Community Healthcare Outcomes Mentoring.

Increasing rates of chronic diseases and an aging population have placed palliative care at the forefront of public health efforts. The major goal of palliative care is to achieve the best possible quality of life for patients and their families or caregivers. To reduce barriers and improve palliative care, the From Advance Care Planning Toward Palliative Care coalition was first formed in South Dakota in 2017. It comprises an interprofessional, multi-institutional group of health care professionals who aim to promote palliative care through education, research, and advocacy. The project's purpose was to increase awareness and knowledge of best palliative care practices and to improve access to resources and networking among stakeholders. In 2021 and 2022, the coalition implemented the Extension for Community Healthcare Outcomes model. The objective was to provide a centralized structure for distant providers to obtain mentoring in palliative care through case-based learning according to a standardized communication and mentoring strategy, thereby increasing access to palliative care networking opportunities in rural and underserved regions.

Development and Implementation of Semantic Information Standards for Oncology.

Data exchange in oncological healthcare is hindered by insufficient standardization agreements. An Information Standard comprises agreements facilitating accurate communication of care information with the necessary quality and timeliness. We introduce a structured approach to designing, implementing, and maintaining semantic information standards for oncology, supporting information use across medical scenarios. It consists of an element dataset organized into three tiers, ensuring comprehensive documentation and reliable information exchange. These agreements enhance health data interoperability and system functionality, governed by semantic standardization. Together with communication standards, they empower healthcare professionals with extensive medical records and grant patients control over their health data. Consequently, a high-quality semantic information standard supports both providers and patients, and is adequate during development and manageable during maintenance.

Multi-modal deep learning framework for damage detection in social media posts.

In crisis management, quickly identifying and helping affected individuals is key, especially when there is limited information about the survivors' conditions. Traditional emergency systems often face issues with reachability and handling large volumes of requests. Social media has become crucial in disaster response, providing important information and aiding in rescues when standard communication systems fail. Due to the large amount of data generated on social media during emergencies, there is a need for automated systems to process this information effectively and help improve emergency responses, potentially saving lives. Therefore, accurately understanding visual scenes and their meanings is important for identifying damage and obtaining useful information. Our research introduces a framework for detecting damage in social media posts, combining the Bidirectional Encoder Representations from Transformers (BERT) architecture with advanced convolutional processing. This framework includes a BERT-based network for analyzing text and multiple convolutional neural network blocks for processing images. The results show that this combination is very effective, outperforming existing methods in accuracy, recall, and F1 score. In the future, this method could be enhanced by including more types of information, such as human voices or background sounds, to improve its prediction efficiency.

Enhancing User Localization with an Integrated Sensing and Communication (ISAC) System: An Experimental UAV Search-and-Rescue Use Case

This paper explores the potential of an Integrated Sensing and Communication (ISAC) system to enhance search-and-rescue operations. While prior research has explored ISAC capabilities in Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), our study focuses on addressing the specific challenges posed by modern communication standards (e.g., power, frequency, and bandwidth limitations) in the context of search-and-rescue missions. The paper details effective methods for processing echoed signals generated by downlink transmissions and evaluates key performance indicators, including Noise Equivalent Sigma Zero (NESZ) and channel capacity. Additionally, we utilize synchronization uplink signals transmitted by User Equipment (UE) to improve target detection and classification of possible victims by fusing SAR imagery with triangulation results from uplink signals. An experimental campaign validates the proposed setup by integrating SAR images of the environment with active localization results, both produced by a UAV equipped with a Software Defined Radio (SDR) payload. Our results demonstrate the system’s capability to detect and localize buried targets in avalanche scenarios, with localization errors ranging from centimeters to 10 m depending on environmental conditions. This successful integration highlights the practical applicability of our approach in challenging search-and-rescue missions.

COASTing Through Bedside Report: An Innovative Approach to Safe Transitions of Care.

Bedside shift report improves patient satisfaction, peer accountability, communication, and decreases safety events. Clinical practice of bedside report varied prior to the pandemic. Due to limited personal protective equipment and exposure risk, bedside report was halted during the pandemic. The Iowa Model of Evidence-Based Practice was used to guide this project. To standardize communication during bedside report, safety data and literature were reviewed and grouped by themes. The acronym COAST was developed, consisting of code status, oxygen, access, safety, and tubes/drains. These elements were to be discussed at the bedside during handoff. Compliance with completing elements of COAST increased during the pilot, 9- and 12-month sustainment periods. Additional safety-related outcomes of cardiopulmonary resuscitation wristband application, falls, and good catches improved. Notably, overtime declined. A bedside report with standardized communication focusing on safety elements can improve compliance with adoption and patient safety outcomes.

Research Ethics: Ideas and Practices of Russian Young Scientists

Scientists’ misconduct in their research activities is an important problem for science in many countries, including Russia. It leads to negative consequences both for the quality of scientific knowledge obtained and for the reputation of researchers and scientific organizations. However, there is still a small number of empirical studies of this problem in Russia. This work is based on a survey method to explore the ideas of young scientists from all federal districts of Russia about research ethics and the situations of ethical dilemmas that they encounter in their work. In accordance with the chosen theoretical framework: ideas about ethics as an action that is situational by nature, determined by sustainable practices and patterns, the survey was conducted in two stages: an open question about situations of ethical choice in research activities, on the basis of which a detailed questionnaire was then created. As a result, it was revealed that the vast majority of young scientists are faced with situations of violation of ethical standards both in scientific publications and communications, and in the processes of organizing research work. Violations of research procedures, data manipulation, falsification of research results – this is a set of violations in the organization of research that almost three-quarters of respondents encountered themselves or heard about such situations from colleagues. However, there are gaps in consensus about the sources of knowledge about ethics and a lack of institutional practices to prevent violations such as the work of ethics committees or ethical standards.

Studying the influence of correction codes on coherent reception of M-PSK signals in the presence of noise and harmonic interference

Objectives. Signals with multiple phase shift keying (M-PSK) exhibiting good spectral and energy characteristics are successfully used in many information transmission systems. These include satellite communication systems, GPS, GLONASS, DVB/DVB-S2, and a set of IEEE 802.11 wireless communication standards. In radio communication channels, the useful signal is affected by various interferences in addition to noise. One of these is harmonic interference. As a result, high intensity harmonic interference practically destroys the reception of M-PSK signals. One of the important requirements for the quality of data transmission is the system error tolerance. There are different ways of improving the quality of information transmission. One of these is the use of corrective encoding technology. The aim of the paper is to assess the noise immunity of a coherent demodulator of M-PSK signals using Hamming codes (7,4) and (15,11), and convolutional encoding with Viterbi decoding algorithm (7,5) when receiving M-PSK signals under noise and harmonic interference in the communication channel.Methods. The methods of statistical radio engineering, optimal signal reception theory and computer simulation modeling were used.Results. Experimental dependencies of the bit error rate on the signal-to-noise ratio and on the intensity of harmonic interference of coherent reception of M-PSK signals in a channel with noise and harmonic interference were obtained using computer simulation modeling. This was done without using correction codes and with Hamming code (7.4) and (15.11) and convolutional encoding with Viterbi decoding algorithm (7,5).Conclusions. It is shown that the application of the correction codes effectively corrects errors in the presence of noise and harmonic interference with lower intensity. The correction is ineffective in the presence of high intensity interference. These results can provide important guidance in designing the reliable and energy efficient system.

Using old laboratory equipment with modern Web-of-Things standards: a smart laboratory with LabThings Retro.

There has been an increasing, and welcome, open hardware trend towards science teams building and sharing their designs for new instruments. These devices, often built upon low-cost microprocessors and microcontrollers, can be readily connected to enable complex, automated and smart experiments. When designed to use open communication web standards, devices from different laboratories and manufacturers can be controlled using a single protocol and even communicate with each other. However, science labs still have a majority of old, perfectly functional equipment which tends to use older, and sometimes proprietary, standards for communications. In order to encourage the continued and integrated use of this equipment in modern automated experiments, we develop and demonstrate LabThings Retro. This allows us to retrofit old instruments to use modern Web-of-Things standards, which we demonstrate with closed-loop feedback involving an optical microscope, digital imaging and fluid pumping.

Communication security analysis of fully electronic interlocking systems

Communication security in fully electronic interlocking systems is one of the key factors ensuring the safe and reliable operation of the entire system. EN50159 is an important standard in the European railway communication sector, aimed at ensuring the safety, reliability, and efficiency of railway transportation. According to the communication security standards of EN50159, there are six types of security risks in closed communication: data duplication, deletion, insertion, misordering, delay, and corruption. This paper analyzes and explains the aspects of communication security that need to be considered based on the safety communication standards of China's railway signaling system and the signal safety standards in EN50159, focusing primarily on communication security and reliability.

Challenges and Opportunities in integrating UTMS with Existing Airspace

The aviation industry has both potential and substantial obstacles as it integrates unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) into regulated airspace. In order to ensure safe and effective operations in shared airspace, this study examines the difficulties associated with integrating unmanned traffic management (UTM) systems with the current air traffic management infrastructure. By means of an in-depth examination of technological and operational factors, the research delves into the principal obstacles that stakeholders encounter when attempting to regulate the growing number of unmanned aerial vehicles. To promote seamless integration, the study also identifies areas for innovation, including standardized communication protocols, traffic flow management, and cooperative decision-making frameworks. This essay offers important insights into the future of autonomous traffic management and its consequences for the larger aviation ecosystem by fusing current academic findings with industry insights.

Combining Optimization and Simulation for Next-Generation Off-Road Vehicle E/E Architectural Design.

The automotive industry, with particular reference to the off-road sector, is facing several challenges, including the integration of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADASs), the introduction of autonomous driving capabilities, and system-specific requirements that are different from the traditional car market. Current vehicular electrical-electronic (E/E) architectures are unable to support the amount of data for new vehicle functionalities, requiring the transition to zonal architectures, new communication standards, and the adoption of Drive-by-Wire technologies. In this work, we propose an automated methodology for next-generation off-road vehicle E/E architectural design. Starting from the regulatory requirements, we use a MILP-based optimizer to find candidate solutions, a discrete event simulator to validate their feasibility, and an ascent-based gradient method to reformulate the constraints for the optimizer in order to converge to the final architectural solution. We evaluate the results in terms of latency, jitter, and network load, as well as provide a Pareto analysis that includes power consumption, cost, and system weight.

Innovative Smart Inverter Design for Enhanced Integration of DistributedEnergy

This comprehensive exploration delves into the innovative field of smart inverter design, with a particular focus on the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in enhancing the integration of Distributed Energy Resources (DERs) into power grids. The rapid evolution of energy systems and the increasing reliance on renewable energy sources have necessitated the development of more sophisticated technologies for power system management. Smart inverters, at the heart of this transformation, are crucial for integrating DERs like solar panels and wind turbines into existing power grids. The integration of AI into smart inverters represents a significant advancement in managing and optimizing these complex systems. This study demonstrates how these advanced technologies can lead to substantial improvements in inverter reliability, power distribution efficiency, and overall management of renewable energy sources. Realistic models highlight the resilience of smart inverters to fluctuating grid conditions and their ability to maintain system reliability and efficiency. Furthermore, the study critically assesses the current challenges facing this field, such as the need for standardized communication protocols, robust cybersecurity measures against digital threats, and the ongoing requirement for innovation to keep pace with rapid technological advancements. Finally, the exploration forecasts future developments and areas that will further enhance smart inverter technology, emphasizing the essential role of continued research and development in fully realizing AI's potential to transform power grids. The examination concludes by highlighting the promising future of AI in smart inverter design, particularly in contributing to the development of more efficient, reliable, and sustainable energy systems.

An Error Protection Protocol for the Multicast Transmission of Data Samples in V2X Applications

There is a trend towards communication of larger data objects in wireless vehicle communication. In many cases, communication uses publish-subscribe protocols. Data rate requirements of such protocols are best addressed by wireless multicast protocols, but the existing protocols lack an error protection that is suitable for real-time and safety-critical applications. We present an application-aware protocol that supports the popular DDS (Data Distribution Service) middleware. By exploiting data object deadlines and slack for retransmissions and employing an adaptable, multicast-aware prioritization mechanism, the reliable exchange of large data objects is enabled. The protocol is sufficiently general to be used on top of different communication standards such as 802.11- and cellular-based V2X (Vehicle-to-Everything) technologies. The protocol was implemented in an OMNeT++ simulation model and evaluated against recent state-of-the-art alternatives using parameters and constraints taken from a motivational truck platooning example. Furthermore, the protocol was implemented using an open-source DDS implementation as the basis and tested on a physical wireless demonstrator setup. The evaluation shows that the presented multicast protocol substantially outperforms the alternatives keeping streaming applications operational even under high frame error rates.

TSDSystem: a framework to collect, archive and share time series data at volcanological observatories

This paper presents a framework designed to collect, archive, and share time series data coming from sensor networks at Istituto Nazionale di Geofisica e Vulcanologia, Osservatorio Etneo (Italy), which we have developed and called Time Series Database management System (TSDSystem). The framework proposes a flexible database model for the standardization of sensor networks data and implements an optimized technology for storage and retrieval of acquired time series data. It is designed for the implementation of multiparametric databases and then suitable for development in volcanological observatories worldwide. The proposed framework provides a web service to perform writing and reading data via a standard web communication protocol, which easily enables interaction with other instruments or automatic systems. All results provided by the TSDSystem web service are represented using common data formats in the context of online services. In particular, the station networks metadata representation follows a schema inspired by the International Federation of Digital Seismograph Networks, widely known in seismology. A web GUI (graphical user interface) is provided to test and document the web service. Additionally, basic built-in web applications are supplied with the web GUI to perform joint and synchronized time series data visualization as well as representation of stations on a geographical map. The web GUI also offers administration tools for data access policy management, creation of monitoring dashboards and data publication through web pages. The framework implements an authorization system that can be used to restrict both writing or reading operations. The TSDSystem can also be a useful tool for engineering surveillance systems. The implementing code of the framework is available with an open source license on a public repository together with a user manual.