Flexible Integration Research Articles

Assumption-based Design of Hybrid Diagnosis Systems

Hybrid diagnosis systems combine model-based and data-driven methods to leverage their respective strengths and mitigate individual weaknesses in fault diagnosis. This paper proposes a unified framework for analyzing and designing hybrid diagnosis systems, focusing on the principles underlying the computation of diagnoses from observations. The framework emphasizes the importance of assumptions about fault modes and their manifestations in the system. The proposed architecture supports both fault decoupling and classification techniques, allowing for the flexible integration of model-based residuals and data-driven classifiers. Comparative analysis highlights how classical model-based and pure data-driven systems are special cases within the proposed hybrid framework. The proposed framework emphasizes that the key factor in categorizing fault diagnosis methods is not whether they are model-based or data-driven, but rather their ability to decuple faults which is crucial for rejecting diagnoses when fault training data is limited. Future research directions are suggested to further enhance hybrid fault diagnosis systems.

Knowledge-oriented management systems for complex objects

The article examines the issue of improving the efficiency of complex systems management through the use of knowledge-based methods and technologies. The article emphasizes the need to revise traditional approaches to scientific research and knowledge management by introducing a transdisciplinary paradigm and artificial intelligence to achieve sustainable development and knowledge evolution. The authors try to solve the problem of management in the face of uncertainty and incomplete information, which is typical for such systems. The methods of integrating knowledge from different fields to create an integrated management system are considered. The basis of management is the holarchic structure, which organizes the system in the form of a hierarchy of holons. Each holon has a specific role and knowledge, which ensures the flexibility and adaptability of the system. The study also uses self-organization and learning methods to ensure continuous improvement of the systemʼs functioning. The article discusses the requirements for knowledge-based management systems, such as flexibility, adaptability, data and knowledge integration, learning and self-organization, transparency of decisions, and resilience to errors and failures. The findings of the study emphasize the importance of implementing knowledge-based approaches in the management system of complex facilities. This allows to increase the level of adaptability and stability of management, which is critical in todayʼs environment of dynamic development of technology and knowledge. The proposed methods can be applied in various fields, which makes them universal and useful for a wide range of scientific and practical tasks, providing a high level of adaptability, efficiency and stability of complex objects management, taking into account modern requirements and challenges.

Implementation of an adult life-course vaccine review service, VaxCheck, in community pharmacy: A qualitative analysis

BackgroundCommunity pharmacists are well placed to identify and vaccinate unimmunized or under-immunized individuals who can put themselves and communities at risk of preventable disease. We designed and tested VaxCheck, a novel life-course vaccine review service that can be used to raise awareness and guide personal vaccination action plans, in community pharmacies in Ontario, Canada. ObjectiveTo understand the experiences of community pharmacists and staff directly involved with providing the VaxCheck service as part of initial testing. MethodsSemi-structured interviews were performed with pharmacy staff from nine pharmacies who participated in the study. Interviews were conducted at baseline and following each of three plan-do-study-act quality improvement cycles. Activities undertaken to perform VaxCheck were assessed. An inductive thematic analysis was performed to identify dominant themes and subthemes. Activities and descriptive codes were then correlated to the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR). Results26 interviews were conducted. Pharmacy staff described VaxCheck activities as spanning three stages: (1) Promotion/offering of VaxCheck, (2) Completing the VaxCheck, and (3) Enacting recommendations and follow-up. VaxCheck activities were compatible with workflow related to delivery of other vaccines and medication reviews. Thematic analysis found three considerations guided VaxCheck adoption: (1) Aligning VaxCheck with workflow through flexible integration, (2) Enabling patient-oriented vaccination services, and (3) Contributing to community healthcare provision. Data aligned with all CFIR domains with strengths noted in constructs from the “Innovation characteristics” and “Individuals” domains. Barriers to implementation were identified in “Inner setting”, “Outer setting” and “Process” domains, such as pharmacy workflow capacity, patient knowledge about vaccination, availability of vaccine records, and interactions with other healthcare providers. ConclusionCommunity pharmacists found VaxCheck to be a valuable, accessible service that was well-received by patients and supported adult vaccination reviews and individualized recommendations. VaxCheck was compatible with pharmacy workflow but needed additional resources for sustainability and promotion with stakeholders.

Simulation of PSDF (Photovoltaic, Storage, Direct Current and Flexibility) Energy System for Rural Buildings

The PSDF (photovoltaic, storage, direct current, and flexibility) energy system represents an innovative approach aimed at achieving carbon neutrality. This study focused on rural buildings and utilized Modelica to develop a dynamic simulation model of the PSDF system. The research introduced a framework for direct current distribution microgrid systems with flexible regulatory mechanisms, employing a virtual inertia control strategy to provide stable adjustments for flexible operations and support integration with local grids. Case simulation results indicated that the system equipped with a water tank saved 3.15 kWh compared to the system without a water tank, resulting in an energy savings rate of 22.14%. Compared to traditional photovoltaic systems, the PSDF system significantly enhanced energy management flexibility and system reliability through the integration of thermal storage and battery management. This research made significant contributions to the fields of renewable energy and building energy systems by offering a scalable and practical solution suitable for rural contexts.

Comparison of whole-brain task-modulated functional connectivity methods for fMRI task connectomics

Higher brain functions require flexible integration of information across widely distributed brain regions depending on the task context. Resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) has provided substantial insight into large-scale intrinsic brain network organisation, yet the principles of rapid context-dependent reconfiguration of that intrinsic network organisation are much less understood. A major challenge for task connectome mapping is the absence of a gold standard for deriving whole-brain task-modulated functional connectivity matrices. Here, we perform biophysically realistic simulations to control the ground-truth task-modulated functional connectivity over a wide range of experimental settings. We reveal the best-performing methods for different types of task designs and their fundamental limitations. Importantly, we demonstrate that rapid (100 ms) modulations of oscillatory neuronal synchronisation can be recovered from sluggish haemodynamic fluctuations even at typically low fMRI temporal resolution (2 s). Finally, we provide practical recommendations on task design and statistical analysis to foster task connectome mapping.

Comparison of whole-brain task-modulated functional connectivity methods for fMRI task connectomics.

Higher brain functions require flexible integration of information across widely distributed brain regions depending on the task context. Resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) has provided substantial insight into large-scale intrinsic brain network organisation, yet the principles of rapid context-dependent reconfiguration of that intrinsic network organisation are much less understood. A major challenge for task connectome mapping is the absence of a gold standard for deriving whole-brain task-modulated functional connectivity matrices. Here, we perform biophysically realistic simulations to control the ground-truth task-modulated functional connectivity over a wide range of experimental settings. We reveal the best-performing methods for different types of task designs and their fundamental limitations. Importantly, we demonstrate that rapid (100 ms) modulations of oscillatory neuronal synchronisation can be recovered from sluggish haemodynamic fluctuations even at typically low fMRI temporal resolution (2 s). Finally, we provide practical recommendations on task design and statistical analysis to foster task connectome mapping.

Experimental study on the effects of integrating phase change material with a solar updraft tower

AbstractThe solar updraft tower power plant presents a promising renewable energy solution but faces limitations in thermal efficiency and energy production during nonsunny hours. This study addresses a critical gap in the literature by investigating the integration of latent heat storage systems utilizing paraffin wax as phase change materials (PCMs) to enhance solar updraft tower (SUT) performance. Two identical small‐scale SUTs were constructed, both using the same tank configuration; however, the PCM device was filled with paraffin wax as a PCM, while the non‐PCM device contained only atmospheric air. Three scenarios were explored, featuring varying PCM tank heights of 2, 4, and 6 cm (the full capacity of the PCM tank). Results indicated that, from 3 p.m. until sunset, the PCM‐integrated SUT in Case 3 (with 6 cm of PCM) achieved the best performance, with an average absorber temperature rise of 25°C, compared with 12°C for the non‐PCM device. During the same period, the average air velocity at the tower neck, where a wind turbine could be installed, was 1.21 m/s for the PCM device, versus 0.82 m/s for the non‐PCM device. Notably, the nocturnal operating time extended significantly with PCM use, rising from 90 min for the 2 cm case to 125 min for the 6 cm case. In contrast, the non‐PCM device exhibited no operational time after sunset. This research not only demonstrates the effectiveness of PCM in improving the thermal performance and operational longevity of SUTs but also introduces a novel tank configuration that allows for flexible PCM integration, representing a significant advancement in the development of more efficient SUT systems.

SUPPLY CHAIN RISK MANAGEMENT: STRATEGIC SOLUTIONS FOR REDUCING TRANSPORTATION AND LOGISTICS RISKS

This study investigates strategic approaches to mitigating risks in transportation and logistics within global supply chains, focusing on the integration of advanced technologies, flexibility, collaboration, and sustainability. By employing the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, the study systematically reviews 37 key articles to provide a comprehensive understanding of modern risk management practices. The findings reveal the increasing reliance on technologies such as predictive analytics, the Internet of Things (IoT), and blockchain for enhancing visibility, monitoring, and decision-making. Flexibility in logistics networks, including alternative sourcing and diversified transportation routes, emerged as crucial for mitigating disruptions, while collaboration among supply chain partners, particularly through real-time information sharing, significantly reduces risk exposure. Additionally, the study highlights the growing integration of sustainability into risk management, addressing climate change and environmental risks. This research underscores the need for proactive, adaptable, and sustainable risk management strategies to maintain supply chain resilience in the face of evolving global challenges.

Flexible supercapacitors based on in-situ synthesis of composite nickel manganite@reduced graphene oxide nanosheets cathode: An integration of high mechanical flexibility and energy storage

Supercapacitors have attracted considerable attention in the context of electric vehicles, renewable energy storage, and industrial equipment. Nevertheless, further work is required to enhance the energy storage performance and improve the adaptability of supercapacitors under mechanical loads. To address these challenges, we propose a novel design strategy for composite micro-nano structures of reduced graphene oxide coated in situ growth of nickel manganite nanoarrays on the carbon fiber surface (CF@NiMn2O4@rGO). This design enables the fabrication of flexible supercapacitor electrodes with optimised electrochemical and mechanical properties. The CF@NiMn2O4@rGO cathode exhibits a synergistic effect that enhances energy storage, as evidenced by a high specific capacitance of 1003.35 F g−1 (at 10 mA cm−2) and exceptional cycling stability over more than 4000 cycles. Furthermore, the flexible carbon fiber (CF) and in-situ grown nickel manganite@reduced graphene oxide (NiMn2O4@rGO) contribute to improved mechanical properties of the electrode. The assembled supercapacitor exhibits both high energy density and cycling stability. Notably, the flexible bending angle ranging from 0° to 180° has minimal impact on the energy storage performance of this flexible supercapacitor. Even under a bending angle of 180°, it successfully powers a small light bulb. This novel nanostructured material presents an innovative approach for designing flexible supercapacitors.

Flexible electronic-photonic 3D integration from ultrathin polymer chiplets

Integrating flexible electronics and photonics can create revolutionary technologies, but combining these components on a single polymer device has been difficult, particularly for high-volume manufacturing. Here, we present a robust chiplet-level heterogeneous integration of polymer-based circuits (CHIP), where ultrathin polymer electronic and optoelectronic chiplets are vertically bonded at room temperature and shaped into application-specific forms with monolithic Input/Output (I/O). This process was used to develop a flexible 3D integrated optrode with high-density microelectrodes for electrical recording, micro light-emitting diodes (μLEDs) for optogenetic stimulation, temperature sensors for bio-safe operations, and shielding designs to prevent optoelectronic artifacts. CHIP enables simple, high-yield, and scalable 3D integration, double-sided area utilization, and miniaturization of connection I/O. Systematic characterization demonstrated the scheme’s success and also identified frequency-dependent origins of optoelectronic artifacts. We envision CHIP being applied to numerous polymer-based devices for a wide range of applications.

The Institute of Enhanced Cooperation in European Union Law: Evolution of Legal Regulation

INTRODUCTION. The article presents the evolution of legal regulation of the institution of enhanced cooperation as a legal form of flexible integration in European Union (EU) law. Flexible integration is a fairly widespread and objectively existing legal phenomenon in the practice of various integration associations. However, it is within the framework of EU law that the concept of enhanced cooperation has received the greatest development and legal regulation. This was largely due to the EU's desire to regularize and subordinate alternative forms of co natural that interstate cooperation within the framework of one or another integration cooperation acquires more and more complex character, and cooperation of the member states of an integration association within the framework of one or another direction of interaction has uneven and heterogeneous character. MATERIALS AND METHODS. The methodological basis of the study was traditional general scientific and special methods of cognition of legal phenomena: comparative legal method; method of scientific analysis; formal legal method; method of synthesis of social and legal phenomena.RESEARCH RESULTS. As a result of the analysis, the main stages of development of prerequisites and reasons for the legal regulation of enhanced cooperation have been identified and the periodization of the development of legal regulation of this institution has been proposed. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS. Within the framework of the proposals on the periodization of the development of legal regulation of the institution of enhanced cooperation the following stages can be distinguished. The first stage can be labeled as “pre-Amsterdam”. This period is characterized by the formation of conceptual foundations of enhanced cooperation as a legal form of flexible integration. Within the framework of the “pre-Amsterdam” period there is an application of some form of flexible integration (Schengen, euro zone, etc.). The conceptualization of enhanced cooperation as a form of flexible integration was the basis for the normative-legal consolidation of this institution in the founding treaties of the EU. The next stage can be called “Amsterdam-Nicean”. Although the institution of enhanced cooperation received different names in the Amsterdam and Nice versions of the establishing treaties, it seems possible to unite this period into one: despite the normative-legal consolidation of enhanced cooperation as a form of flexible integration, the relevant norms of the establishing treaties have not actually received practical application. Finally, the next stage – the “Lisbon” period is characterized by the active ap[1]plication of the norms of the establishing treaties in the EU practice, including judicial.

Operating Mechanism Principles and Advancements for Halide Perovskite-Based Memristors and Neuromorphic Devices.

With the advent of the generation of artificial intelligence (AI) based on big data-processing technologies, next-generation memristor and memristive neuromorphic devices have been actively studied with great interest to overcome the von Neumann bottleneck limits. Among various candidates, halide perovskites (HPs) have been in the spotlight as potential candidates for these devices due to their unique switching characteristics with low energy consumption and flexible integration compatibility across various sources for scalability. We outline the characteristics and operating principles of HP-based memristors and their neuromorphic devices. We explain filamentary- and interface-type switching according to the type of conducting pathway occurring inside the active HP layer and the operating mechanisms depending on the species that make up this conducting pathway. We summarize the types and mechanisms of current changes beneficial for neuromorphic device applications and finally organize various suggested analysis tools and physical models to enable experimental determination of switching mechanisms from various perspectives.

Investigation of the Interfacial Fusion Bonding on Hybrid Additively Manufactured Components under Torsional Load.

Hybrid manufacturing processes integrate multiple manufacturing techniques to leverage their respective advantages and mitigate their limitations. This study combines additive manufacturing and injection molding, aiming to efficiently produce components with extensive design flexibility and functional integration. The research explores the interfacial fusion bonding of hybrid additively manufactured components under torsional loading. Specifically, it examines the impact of various surface treatments on injection molded parts and the influence of different build chamber temperatures during additive manufacturing on torsional strength. Polycarbonate components, neat, with glass or carbon fiber-reinforcement, are produced and assessed for dimensional accuracy, torsional strength, and fracture behavior. The findings emphasize the critical role of surface treatment for the injection molded components before additive manufacturing. Additionally, the study identifies the influence of chamber temperatures on both dimensional accuracy and torsional strength. Among all investigated materials, plasma-treated neat samples exhibited the best torsional strength. The torsional strength was increased by up to 87% by actively heating the build chamber to 186 °C for neat polycarbonate. These insights aim to advance the quality and performance of hybrid additively manufactured components, broadening their application potential across diverse fields.

INSPIRE: interpretable, flexible and spatially-aware integration of multiple spatial transcriptomics datasets from diverse sources.

Recent advances in spatial transcriptomics technologies have led to a growing number of diverse datasets, offering unprecedented opportunities to explore tissue organizations and functions within spatial contexts. However, it remains a significant challenge to effectively integrate and interpret these data, often originating from different samples, technologies, and developmental stages. In this paper, we present INSPIRE, a deep learning method for integrative analyses of multiple spatial transcriptomics datasets to address this challenge. With designs of graph neural networks and an adversarial learning mechanism, INSPIRE enables spatially informed and adaptable integration of data from varying sources. By incorporating non-negative matrix factorization, INSPIRE uncovers interpretable spatial factors with corresponding gene programs, revealing tissue architectures, cell type distributions and biological processes. We demonstrate the capabilities of INSPIRE by applying it to human cortex slices from different samples, mouse brain slices with complementary views, mouse hippocampus and embryo slices generated through different technologies, and spatiotemporal organogenesis atlases containing half a million spatial spots. INSPIRE shows superior performance in identifying detailed biological signals, effectively borrowing information across distinct profiling technologies, and elucidating dynamical changes during embryonic development. Furthermore, we utilize INSPIRE to build 3D models of tissues and whole organisms from multiple slices, demonstrating its power and versatility.

Demand-Side Flexibility in Power Systems, Structure, Opportunities, and Objectives: A Review for Residential Sector

The integration of renewable energy sources (RESs) is rapidly increasing within energy systems worldwide. However, this shift introduces intermittency and uncertainty on the supply side. To hedge against RES intermittency, demand-side flexibility introduces a practical solution. Therefore, further studies are required to unleash demand-side flexibility in power systems. This flexibility is relevant across various sectors of power systems, including residential, industrial, commercial, and agricultural sectors. This paper reviews the key aspects of demand-side flexibility within the residential sector. To achieve this objective, a general introduction to demand flexibility across the four sectors is provided. As a contribution of this paper, and in comparison with previous studies, household appliances are classified based on their flexibility and controllability. The flexibility potential of key residential demands, including heat pumps, district heating, electric vehicles, and battery systems, is then reviewed. Another contribution of this paper is the exploration of demand-side flexibility scheduling under uncertainty, examining three approaches: stochastic programming, robust optimization, and information-gap decision theory. Additionally, the integration of demand flexibility into short-term electricity markets with high-RES penetration is discussed. Finally, the key objective functions and simulation software used in the study of demand-side flexibility are reviewed.

FROM THE PHOTOVOLTAIC EFFECT TO A LOW VOLTAGE PHOTOVOLTAIC GRID CHALLENGE – A REVIEW

The paper investigates the progress of on-grid photovoltaic systems in Romania, particularly in the residential and commercial sectors. Emphasizing the financial stability offered by on-grid systems, the study underscores the predictability of solar production and the support from governmental incentives. The graphs and tables presented contain processed data from studies carried out by the governmental authorities. This research acknowledges the pivotal role of photovoltaic cell advancements in enhancing the efficiency and accessibility of on-grid systems. However, the swift expansion of solar capacity raises concerns regarding its impact on low-voltage power transmission grids, leading to fluctuations that may compromise electricity quality. Grid flexibility and battery integration are proposed to address these challenges, recognizing their potential benefits alongside associated costs and technical complexities. The central theme revolves around managing the transition towards sustainable and efficient energy infrastructure in Romania.

Exploring teachers’ experiences in addressing ADHD during the post-pandemic transition

This study delves into how teachers are managing and teaching ADHD students during the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic. Through interviews and observations from throughout the world, it explores the challenges faced and the strategies they have developed. Initial findings reveal heightened difficulties for ADHD students, but also innovative teaching methods and increased collaboration with others in the institution of Mapua Malayan Colleges Mindanao. Teachers emphasize flexible approaches, technological integration, and social-emotional learning. The study underscores the need for ongoing professional development and support systems to effectively address the needs of ADHD students in the post-pandemic time, highlighting the importance of adaptability and inclusivity in education.

Multilayer Core-Shell Fiber Device for Improved Strain Sensing and Supercapacitor Applications.

1D fiber devices, known for their exceptional flexibility and seamless integration capabilities, often face trade-offs between desired wearable application characteristics and actual performance. In this study, a multilayer device composed of carbon nanotube (CNT), transition metal carbides/nitrides (MXenes), and cotton fibers, fabricated using a dry spinning method is presented, which significantly enhances both strain sensing and supercapacitor functionality. This core-shell fiber design achieves a record-high sensitivity (GF ≈ 4500) and maintains robust durability under various environmental conditions. Furthermore, the design approach markedly influences capacitance, correlating with the percentage of active material used. Through systematic optimization, the fiber device exhibited a capacitance 26-fold greater than that of a standard neat CNT fiber, emphasizing the crucial role of innovative design and high active material loading in improving device performance.

Numerical Derivative-Based Flexible Integration Algorithm for Power Electronic Systems Simulation Considering Nonlinear Components

Numerical Derivative-Based Flexible Integration Algorithm for Power Electronic Systems Simulation Considering Nonlinear Components

Unveiling the Future of Retirement: The Opportunities and Obstacles in Modernizing Pension Schemes Across Africa

This systematic review offers a holistic understanding of the prospects, challenges, and best practices in modernizing pension schemes across Africa. With a rising aging population, pension schemes are vital for financial security, societal well-being, and poverty alleviation. The study addresses literature gaps by exploring economic implications, assessing elderly frailty, and investigating quality of life impacts. Following PRISMA guidelines and using the PICOS framework, multiple electronic databases were searched for papers published between February 2010 and April 2022, focusing on African pension schemes. Thirty-one studies met the eligibility criteria and were included in the analysis. Findings indicate that while pension schemes improve mental health, food security, and societal structures, they face challenges such as data scarcity, financial sustainability, social dynamics, and institutional barriers. Best practices include tailored interventions, financial flexibility, and healthcare integration. This paper uniquely synthesizes multiple disciplines, providing an integrated perspective and filling a significant literature gap. The study introduces models considering economic, psychological, and health-related variables, enhancing theoretical understanding. For practitioners, it offers adaptable best practices for regional and cultural contexts in Africa, including financial diversification, healthcare integration, and legal clarity. The societal impact extends to the elderly, their families, and communities, providing critical insights for policymakers to design effective, sustainable pension schemes to improve the quality of life for Africa’s aging population.