Performance Of Systems Research Articles

Assessment of clinical performance of universal adhesives versus other adhesive systems: A systematic review and meta-analysis of clinical trials

Universal adhesives (UAs) often exhibit comparable or even superior bond strength to traditional adhesive systems, ensuring reliable and long-lasting adhesion between the resin composite and the tooth structure. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the clinical performance of UAs compared to other adhesive systems in direct resin composite restorations through a systematic review and meta-analysis. Two reviewers executed a literature search in five electronic databases: PubMed, EMBASE, Scopus, Web of Science, and Scielo. Clinical trials comparing the clinical evaluation of resin composite restorations in Class I, Class II, or Class V cavities placed with an universal adhesive (UA) system against resin composite restorations placed with another non-UA system were included in the review. An analysis was carried out using Review Manager software version 5.3.5 (London, England, United Kingdom). Standardized effect sizes with 95% confidence intervals were calculated to allow comparisons between different interventions and different outcomes. The methodological quality of each study was assessed using the Cochrane RoB2 tool for randomized clinical trials. A total of 2331 potentially relevant studies were identified. After title and abstract examination, 14 studies remained in the systematic review. From these, a total of 11 studies were included in the meta-analysis. The retention rates of resin composite restorations after 6 months showed no significant difference between total-etch (TE, p=0.83), or self-etch (SE, p=0.78) adhesives and UAs applied in TE and SE modes (p>0.05). However, UAs applied in selective-enamel etching (SEE) mode demonstrated superior clinical performance compared to other adhesives (p=0.01), particularly TE adhesives (p=0.02). Similarly, after >12 months of follow-up, there were no significant differences in retention rates among different adhesive modes (p>0.05). Additionally, the incidence of secondary caries did not significantly differ across adhesive modes at both 6-month and >12-month evaluations (p>0.05). This systematic review and meta-analysis suggested that UAs demonstrate comparable clinical performance to TE and SE adhesive systems in direct resin composite restorations, particularly in terms of restoration retention rates and the incidence of secondary caries. UAs applied in SEE mode exhibited superior clinical outcomes compared to other adhesive systems. These findings indicate that UAs can be considered a viable alternative to traditional adhesive systems in clinical practice, offering flexibility in application while maintaining comparable long-term outcomes.

Degradation of carbamazepine in piezo-activation of persulfate systems: Comparison of PDS and PMS

The choice of persulfate (PS) is crucial to the degradation and energy efficiencies for piezo-activation of PS (PE-PS) systems. Herein, a comparison between piezoelectrically activated peroxydisulfate (PDS) and peroxomonosulfate (PMS) using BaTiO3 are comparatively investigated for carbamazepine (CBZ) degradation. By contrast, the PE-PMS system achieves better degradation and mineralization of CBZ, as well as higher reaction stoichiometric efficiencies (%RSE). Nevertheless, the energy consumption of the PE-PDS system is only 9.69% of the PE-PMS system. The quenching test, chemical probe determination, and electron spin resonance (EPR) analysis suggest that the concentration of •OH, SO4∙-, and 1O2 except ∙O2- of the PE-PMS system, is higher than that of the PE-PDS system. The piezoelectric current density and carrier separation efficiency of the PE-PMS system are higher than that of the PE-PDS system, demonstrating that the piezoelectrically activated PMS has higher reactivity than piezoelectrically activated PDS. The ∙O2- and •OH are the primary ROS in the PE-PDS system, while 1O2 and •OH are the major ROS in the PE-PMS system. Additionally, CBZ is effectively degraded by both PE-PMS and PE-PDS systems from actual water sources. This work compares the performance, energy cost, and mechanism of PE-PMS and PE-PDS systems systematically. Hopefully, all of that is designed to tender a helpful reference for the choice of PS in piezocatalytic research and application.

Efficient removal of cationic dyes by a bivanadyl capped, highly reduced Keggin polyoxometalate through flocculation

Flocculation is widely applied for dye wastewater treatment, due to its low cost, high efficiency and convenient operation. However, finding novel flocculant with high performance and low cost is still a challenge. Therefore, a fully characterized bivanadyl capped, highly reduced Keggin polyoxometalate (Et3NH)5[PMoV6MoVI6O40(VIVO)2] (PMoV2) was explored as flocculant for the treatment of simulated cationic dye wastewater. The effect of initial pH, PMoV2 dosage, and concentrations of dyes and inorganic salts on the flocculation rate of methylene blue (MB)/ crystal violet (CV)/rhodamine B (RhB) was investigated. Under the optimum conditions, the flocculation rates of MB, CV and RhB were 99.7%, 99.8% and 99.7% in 5min, respectively. In addition, PMoV2 and dyes could be easily recovered from flocs. PMoV2 exhibited high selectivity for CV in the binary systems of CV-MB and CV-MO. Even after five recycling tests, PMoV2 still kept high flocculation rate of MB/CV/RhB. The possible flocculation mechanisms for MB/CV/RhB single system, and MB-CV and MO-CV binary systems were charge neutralization, charge neutralization and π-π interaction, and charge neutralization and electrostatic interaction, respectively. PMoV2 was better than the reported flocculants in the respect of easy availability and operation conditions, reusability and high flocculation rate. The cost effectiveness, eco-friendly nature and excellent flocculation performance in individual and binary dye systems made PMoV2 competitive in the field of water environment remediation and material development. This is the first report about the flocculation activities of bivanadyl capped, highly reduced Keggin polyoxometalate.

Arduino performance in control systems for converting air-to-water

Humans are unable to function without water. Water is therefore necessary for living. This study will address the advantages of converting air into drinkable water based on this premise. Regarding the condensation process itself, it is not the best option to use it in remote locations because it needs a lot of energy and equipment. Consequently, thermoelectric technology was used in this study to replace the condensation process. This tool's easier thermoelectric operation makes it suitable for usage in remote locations. The design of an effective Arduino program control system should take into account the effects of temperature and humidity condition parameters on the environment to maximize water production. This will allow the performance between supporting sensors and the main components to be automatically optimized under a variety of environmental conditions and produce water without wasting excessive energy. As a result, the trial where the average temperature was 30°C and the average humidity was 81% produced the highest results for the researchers when they calculated the environmental condition factors that were already known. Within the hour-long study session, 6 milliliters of water were created. In addition to the efficiency with which the Arduino program is commanded, from all sensors to the primary thermoelectric components, it can execute commands automatically and optimally. It can also resolve issues that affect the air-to-water converter controller's performance in a way that ensures proper operation of all controllers by taking into account the relevant factors. to the fullest without squandering too much energy

Development of a Machine-learning-based Framework to Assess the Performance of Water Distribution Systems

Recent statistics indicate that the national water supply coverage is approximately 99%, reflecting a high level of service. However, the aging infrastructure continues to cause issues such as pipe failures and water quality concerns, creating operational difficulties. To solve these issues, performance assessments are used to quantitatively evaluate the system conditions and ensure effective maintenance. In Korea, these assessments are based on a scoring system that combines direct and indirect assessments. However, direct assessment of all pipes is limited by cost and time constraints. To address this issue, a deep neural network is used to assess the aging of water distribution systems. This study develops a framework to estimate direct results from indirect data by analyzing the correlation between indirect and direct assessments. Additionally, data augmentation is considered to compensate for the lack of training data in direct assessments, improve the reliability of performance assessments, and support better prioritization in system maintenance.

Performance Evaluation of Desalination Battery Systems based on Synthesis Method of Carbon Nanotube-Carbon Felt Composite Electrodes

To enhance chlorine ion removal and increase the current charging capacity of a desalination battery system, carbon nanotubes were applied to a carbonaceous electrode. Two types of composite electrodes were fabricated by attaching multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) to a carbon felt (CF) electrode via dip coating (D-CNT@CF) and electrophoresis (E-CNT@CF). These composite electrodes were then tested within a desalination battery system to evaluate their chlorine ion removal efficiency and current charging performance during the charging process. Microflocs of MWCNTs were observed on the surface of D-CNT@CF, whereas a uniform coating of MWCNTs was achieved on the surface of E-CNT@CF. Performance evaluations revealed that chlorine ion removal rates improved by 3.5% for D-CNT@CF and by 19.4% for E-CNT@CF compared to that of CF. Furthermore, the time required to reach maximum current charge was 40.0% for D-CNT@CF and E-CNT compared to CF. @CF decreased by 60.0%. These findings suggest that surface modification of carbonaceous electrodes through electrophoresis can result in a more stable coating and improve the performance of desalination battery systems.

Methodology for determining the heat distribution in disc brakes of mine hoisting machines

Purpose. To study the course of heat phenomena in disc brakes using modern computing systems in order to determine and substantiate the operating parameters for the hoisting machine components. Methodology. The research uses software packages, with the help of which a computational-theoretical apparatus is developed for heat mode modeling processes. In particular, the mentioned function is used in the SolidWorks Simulation software with the ability to evaluate the errors of the calculation results. Findings. In the course of the research, the dependence of the hoisting machine disc brake performance on the operating parameters of its components was determined. The research has led to a better understanding of the heat transfer processes in disc braking devices, as well as the ability to study the friction response of various materials and determine optimal parameters that help improve the performance of braking systems. The effectiveness has been proven of the proposed method for analyzing the heat distribution processes of the mine hoisting machine drum components under the influence of operating and emergency braking modes. Originality. For the first time, a methodology for calculating the heating temperature distribution along the brake rim plane during a safety stop has been developed and substantiated. A method has also been developed for determining the temperature field arising under steady-state heating conditions, which occur after repeated operating braking and cooling of the device. In this case, when using the formula for determining the temperature on the brake rim surface, the sample length, the relative velocity between the friction components and the heat flow distribution coefficient are taken into account. The brake disc geometric model developed in the SolidWorks software package makes it possible to study the temperature change on the device rim in real time. Practical value. The proposed design improvement based on the research results of heating processes should improve vehicle safety. The cost of braking systems is expected to be reduced through the use of optimal materials and production technologies. The software methods for modeling and analyzing the temperature influence on brake discs of the Mine Hoisting Machine (MHM) have been improved. Based on the research results, recommendations have been developed for the optimum braking process of machines in various operating conditions.

Current development, optimisation strategies and future perspectives for lead-free dielectric ceramics in high field and high energy density capacitors.

To meet the United Nations' sustainable development goal of affordable and clean energy, there has been a growing need for low-cost, green, and safe energy storage technologies. High-field and energy-density capacitors have gained substantial attention from academics and industry, particularly for power electronics, where they will play a key role in optimising the performance of management systems in electric vehicles. The key figure of merit, energy density (Wrec), for high-field applications has dramatically increased year-on-year from 2020 to 2024, as evidenced by over 250 papers, demonstrating ever larger Wrec values. This review briefly introduces the background and principles of high energy density ceramics, but its focus is to provide constructive and comprehensive insight into the evaluation of Wrec, Emax, ΔP, and η, and more importantly, the normalised metrics, Wrec/Emax and Wrec/ΔP in lead-free dielectric ceramics. We also present several optimisation strategies for materials modification and process innovation that have been recently proposed before providing perspectives for the further development of high-field and high-energy density capacitors.

Large Room-Temperature Electrocaloric Effect in Lead-Free Relaxor Ferroelectric Ceramics with Wide Operation Temperature Range

In order to obtain large room-temperature electrocaloric effect (ECE) and wide operation temperature range simultaneously in lead-free ceramics, we proposed designing a relaxor ferroelectric with a Tm (the temperature at which the maximum dielectric permittivity is achieved) near-room temperature and glass addition. Based on this strategy, we designed and fabricated lead-free 0.76NaNbO3–0.24BaTiO3 (NN-24BT) ceramics with 1wt.% BaO–B2O3–SiO2 glass addition, which showed distinct relaxor ferroelectric characteristics with strongly diffused phase transition and a Tm near-room temperature. Based on a direct measurement method, a large ΔT (adiabatic temperature change) of 1.3 K was obtained at room temperature under a high field of 11.0 kV mm−1. Additionally, large ECE can be maintained (>0.6 K@6.1 kV mm−1) over a broad temperature range from 23 °C to 69 °C. Moreover, the ECE displayed excellent cyclic stability with a variation in ΔT below ±7% within 100 test cycles. The comprehensive ECE performance is significantly better than other lead-free ceramics. Our work provides a general and effective approach to designing lead-free, high-performance ECE ceramics, and the approach possesses the potential to be utilized to improve the ECE performance of other lead-free ferroelectric ceramic systems.

3.L. Round table: Outcomes from a public debate on the future health priorities of the European Union

Abstract Objective and background In the run up to the European elections, the European Observatory on Health Systems and Policies facilitated a public debate on the future health priorities of the European Union. The purpose of the debate was to provide insights to the European Commission on the views of stakeholders and the public health community with regards to the future of the European Health Union (EHU). The EHU was established as a comprehensive health systems and public health response to the COVID-19 pandemic, featuring enhanced budgets, expanded mandates for existing bodies, and the introduction of new entities like the Health Emergency Response Authority (HERA) alongside new strategies. Methods The methodology for this comprehensive debate included workshops and plenary sessions at various conferences like the 2023 EUPHA conference in Dublin, an interactive webinar series, and a detailed stakeholder survey featuring both closed and open-ended questions. Data was collected and analyzed using diverse qualitative and quantitative tools, including AI-driven analysis of survey responses. Preliminary outcomes Preliminary analysis shows that participants actively engaged in the debate, and mostly expressed support for the EHU’s achievements to date. There was a consensus on the significant value added by the EHU, with many advocating for stronger EU action on a range of discussion topics. Stakeholders and the public health community could also relate to the discussion framework designed to guide the public debate, which included nine topics: enhancing health security; addressing the determinants of health through Health in All Policies and Health for All Policies; supporting health system transformation; enhancing the labour market for health and care workers; achieving universal health coverage; implementing digital solutions and AI; improving the performance and resilience of health systems; addressing long-term challenges, such as population ageing or climate change; and strengthening the EU’s global voice and leadership. The importance placed on these topics varied among different groups. Young participants prioritized climate-related actions, the public health community emphasized addressing the determinants of health, and policymakers concentrated on issues related to health system resilience, universal coverage, and transformation. Digital solutions and AI were recognized as crucial, but they were typically considered integral and transversal to broader issues rather than standalone priorities. The debate also surfaced priorities not initially included in the discussion framework, such as health promotion, prevention, and equity within health systems, which were repeatedly highlighted. Key messages • The debate on the EU’s future health priorities demonstrates that stakeholders and the public health community acknowledge the value of the EHU and would like to see further action to build on it. • Stakeholders and the public health community have formulated concrete action to take the EHU further. Speakers/Panelists Giada Scarpetti TU Berlin, Berlin, Germany Caroline Costongs EuroHealthNet, Brussels, Belgium Isabel de La Mata DG SANTE, European Commission, Luxembourg, Luxembourg

Configurational Design of a Hybrid System Based on an Air–Water Heat Pump and Biomass Boiler for a Rural Dwelling

Hybrid energy systems combine multiple energy sources and storage technologies to enhance performance and meet diverse energy needs. Hybrid heat pump systems are particularly suitable for heating and cooling buildings in rural areas. Air-source heat pumps have two well-known disadvantages during the coldest period of the year, when the building’s heating load is at its peak: the heat pump’s capacity is reduced and it needs to perform defrost cycles. A potential solution is to size the heat pump to cover only a portion of the peak load and to use a second heat generator in a hybrid heat pump system. There is a gap in the literature regarding the configurational analysis of hybrid heat pump (HHP) systems, particularly in terms of combining heat pumps and biomass boilers, and evaluating their efficiency, economic aspects, and environmental impact. Thus, in this research, a dynamic model of a HHP system, consisting of an air-to-water heat pump paired with a biomass boiler as a backup, is presented. Various configurations of the HHP system have been developed to evaluate key performance indicators, such as efficiency, emissions, operational costs, and other relevant factors. The findings of this paper indicate that the energy performance of HHP systems is significantly affected by the system layout, heat pump size, cut-off temperature, and the control algorithm used to activate the heat generators. Moreover, series operation of HHP systems is not only more efficient than parallel operation but also results in lower emissions and reduced operation costs. As expected, the energy loss associated with defrost cycles significantly impacts the overall performance of a hybrid system based on an air-source heat pump. Finally, the impact of the cut-off temperature on the key parameters in the configuration analysis was examined, and the optimal performance of the HHP system, in terms of minimizing operational costs and emissions, was depicted using a heat map diagram.

Modeling Operations in System-Level Real-Time Control for Urban Flooding Reduction and Water Quality Improvement—An Open-Source Benchmarked Case

Advancements in smart sensing and control technologies enable urban drainage engineers to retrofit stormwater storage facilities with real-time control devices for mitigating stormwater in-site overflow, downstream flooding, and overloaded total suspended solids (TSS) in drainage pipes. While the smart technology can improve the performance of the static drainage systems, coordinatively controlling multiple valve and gate operations poses a significant challenge, especially at a large-scale watershed. Using a benchmark stormwater model located at Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA, we assessed the impact of different real-time control strategies (local individual downstream control and system-level multiple control) on balancing flooding mitigation at downstream outlets and TSS reduction at upstream storage units, such as detention ponds. We examined changes in peak water depth, outflow, and TSS as indicators to assess changes in water quantity and quality. The results indicate that system-level control can reduce peak water depth by up to 7.3%, reduce flood duration by up to 34%, and remove up to 67% of total suspended solids compared with a baseline uncontrolled system, with the outflow from upstream detention ponds being the most important hydraulic indicator for control strategy rule set-up. We find that system-level control does not always outperform the individual downstream controls, particularly in alleviating flooding duration at some downstream outlets. With urban growth and a changing climate, this research provides a foundation for quantifying the benefits of real-time control methods as an adaptive stormwater management solution that addresses both water quantity and quality challenges.

Hemodynamic effects of vericiguat in symptomaticHFrEF patients: insights from right heart catheterization study

Abstract Background Vericiguat is recommended in the guidelines as Class IIb for patients with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) who continue to have persistent symptoms despite receiving standard therapy. However, the precise effects of vericiguat on pulmonary and systemic hemodynamics and cardiac performance remain unclear. Purpose This study aimed to investigate the hemodynamic impact of vericiguat in 12 symptomatic HFrEF patients who experienced worsening HF despite receiving standard therapy with the four foundational heart failure medications, using right heart catheterization (RHC). Methods On day 1, RHC was performed via the right internal jugular vein and a balloon-tripped pulmonary artery thermodilution catheter was placed. On day 2 and 3, RHC data were measured at 15min before and 30min, 1hr, 2hr, 3hr and 5hr after intake of 2.5mg vericiguat. RHC data on day 2 and 3 were averaged and the catheter was removed after the RHC measurements on day 3. RHC was repeated on a median day of 105(quartiles 37,168). The acute hemodynamic effects of vericiguat were assessed using a comparison of six RHC measures, including pulmonary artery wedge pressure (PAWP), mean pulmonary artery pressure (MPAP), mean arterial blood pressures (MABP), pulmonary (PVR) and systemic vascular resistances (SVR) and cardiac index (CI), at 15minutes before intake of vericiguat 2.5mg with those at 30minutes to 5hours after that. The chronic hemodynamic effects of vericiguat were evaluated by comparing the six RHC measures on day 1 with those on day 105(37,168). Results Participant characteristics on day 1 were age 63.5(53.5,70)yrs., 16.7%(N=2) women, height 164.3(155,171.3)cm, weight 64.6(54.8,75.1)kg, body mass index 23.8(20,26.3), systolic 101.5(90.5,111.5)mmHg and diastolic blood pressures 60.2(53.5,65)mmHg, heart rate 65.5(56,72)bpm, New York Heart Association functional class Ⅱ 50%(N=6), Ⅲ 16.7%(N=2) and Ⅳ 33.3%(N=4), estimated glomerular filtration rate 44.5(34.5,53.5)mL/min/1.73m2, left-ventricular ejection fraction 19.9(14.5,24.5)% and diastolic diameter 68(60.5,72.5)mm, left-atrial diameter 45(36.5,50.5)mm and brain natriuretic peptide level 419(254,479)pg/mL. Oral intake of vericiguat 2.5mg decreased PAWP (11[7.5,15]mmHg) and MPAP (19.3[14.3,26.8]mmHg) before the intake to PAWP (9.3[6.8,14]mmHg) and MPAP (17.5[12.5,24]mmHg) at 30min after that (both P<0.05[crude P<0.0017])(Figure A) while comparable changes in MABP, PVR, SVR and CI and the other timepoints (all P>0.05[crude P<0.0017]). Vericiguat was titrated to 2.5mg 25% (N=3), 5mg 50% (N=6) and 10mg 25% (N=3) on day 105 (37,168), in which PAWP (9.5[6.5,12.5]mmHg) was decreased from PAWP (14.5[9.5,19.5]mmHg) on day 1 (P<0.05[crude P<0.0083])(Figure B) while comparable changes in the other RHC parameters (all P>0.05[crude P<0.0083]). Conclusions The consistent reduction in PAWP underscores vericiguat's well-tolerated nature and potential to enhance cardiac performance in patients with HFrEF.

The Swiss Army Knife of Electrodes: Pillar[6]arene-Modified Electrodes for Molecular Electrocatalysis Over a Wide pH Range.

Molecularly-modified electrode materials that maintain stability over a broad pH range are rare. Typically, each electrochemical transformation necessitates a specifically tuned system to achieve strong binding and high activity of the catalyst. Here, we report the functionalisation of mesoporous indium tin oxide (mITO) electrodes with the macrocyclic host molecule pillar[6]arene (PA[6]). These electrodes are stable within the pH range of 2.4-10.8 and can be equipped with electrochemically active ruthenium complexes through host-guest interactions to perform various oxidation reactions. Benzyl alcohol oxidation serves as a model reaction in acidic media, while ammonia oxidation is conducted to assess the systems performance under basic conditions. PA[6]-modified electrodes demonstrate catalytic activity for both reactions when complexed to different guest molecules and can be reused by reabsorption of the catalyst after its degradation. Furthermore, the system can be employed to perform subsequent reactions in electrolyte with varying pH, enabling the same electrode to be utilised in multiple different electrocatalytic reactions.

The Swiss Army Knife of Electrodes: Pillar[6]arene‐Modified Electrodes for Molecular Electrocatalysis Over a Wide pH Range

AbstractMolecularly‐modified electrode materials that maintain stability over a broad pH range are rare. Typically, each electrochemical transformation necessitates a specifically tuned system to achieve strong binding and high activity of the catalyst. Here, we report the functionalisation of mesoporous indium tin oxide (mITO) electrodes with the macrocyclic host molecule pillar[6]arene (PA[6]). These electrodes are stable within the pH range of 2.4–10.8 and can be equipped with electrochemically active ruthenium complexes through host–guest interactions to perform various oxidation reactions. Benzyl alcohol oxidation serves as a model reaction in acidic media, while ammonia oxidation is conducted to assess the systems performance under basic conditions. PA[6]‐modified electrodes demonstrate catalytic activity for both reactions when complexed to different guest molecules and can be reused by reabsorption of the catalyst after its degradation. Furthermore, the system can be employed to perform subsequent reactions in electrolyte with varying pH, enabling the same electrode to be utilised in multiple different electrocatalytic reactions.

6.Y.1. Defining, measuring, and reducing low-value care in Europe - proposing a new definition and framework

Abstract The EU Expert Group on Health Systems Performance Assessment (HSPA) selected value-based healthcare, with a focus on low-value care, as the work topic for 2023-2024. Against the backdrop of increasing healthcare expenditures and the overall aim to deliver high quality and efficient healthcare, efforts to reduce waste and inefficiencies have long been emerging in health systems worldwide. Value-based healthcare shifts the focus towards improving patient outcomes; the concept of low-value care in particular aims to identify health services that provide little or no health benefits but expose patients to potential harm. The COVID-19 pandemic clearly demonstrated that value-based healthcare is a prerequisite for high-performing health systems and the need to steer resource allocation to those services that maintain or improve health. The reduction in certain elective services observed during the pandemic (e.g. tonsillectomies) indicates that there may be areas for potential dis-investment and reallocation of resources to higher-value care. The pandemic has thereby emphasized the need for identifying and systematizing measurable efforts directed at reducing low-value care. Tackling low-value care can contribute to alleviating health workforce constraints by ensuring that efforts are focused where they are most beneficial, and not on unnecessary services. Engaging and educating the health workforce about low-value care and how to reduce it is a key measure in this direction. What is more, there is increasing awareness about the health sector’s considerable environmental footprint. Reducing low-value care would contribute to less greenhouse gas emissions, energy consumption and air pollution from the delivery of health services. Despite intensified efforts to address waste and inefficiencies in healthcare in the last decade, the ability of health systems in Europe to identify and reduce low-value care varies. Through the Expert Group’s work, a new comprehensive definition was proposed and a framework to distinguish different types of low-value care was developed as a basis for identifying and tackling low-value care in EU Member States. Indicators to measure low-value care as well as measures to reduce it were collected. This workshop aims to present the findings of the Expert Group´s work on low-value care and to discuss them with conference participants to both raise awareness and identify priority elements for future activities. After a brief introduction on the definition, framework, obstacles and solutions, the panelists will share their views and experiences, followed by a facilitated discussion with the audience. Key messages • A comprehensive definition of low-value care and an accompanying framework for categorizing and identifying low-value care is proposed. • Country experiences with indicators to measure low-value care and strategies to reduce it, as well as related methodological obstacles, offer substantial opportunities for cross-country learning.

6.H. Round table: Harnessing Patient-Reported Data for Health Innovation: Insights from the OECD PaRIS Initiative

Abstract Summary This round table will disseminate knowledge and foster discussions on data reported by patients with a chronic disease in primary care settings in 20 countries for enhancing health system responsiveness and effectiveness. By delving into the OECD’s Patient-Reported Indicator Surveys (PaRIS) survey’s development, adaptation, and analytical strategies, participants will leave with a richer understanding of how patient-reported data can inform and transform health policy and practice in Europe and beyond. Rationale The round table aligns with the Conference theme by focusing on the transformative potential of patient-reported data in health systems. OECD PaRIS provide a unique lens through which to examine patient-centered care, showcasing innovative methods to capture and utilize data across diverse health system contexts. This round table will explore the development, adaptation, and analysis of this flagship survey, revealing its critical role in shaping health policies and practices that are attuned to patient needs and experiences. Objectives 1. Understanding Development and Testing Processes: To gain insights into the systematic approaches used in developing patient-reported instruments that are both robust and sensitive across multiple healthcare settings; 2. Exploring Co-development and Adaptation: To discuss the challenges and strategies involved in adapting health surveys to various national contexts while ensuring stakeholder engagement and data relevancy; 3. Analyzing Data for Policy Making: To comprehend the analytical frameworks used in processing patient-reported data for crafting effective health policies and identifying factors that influence patient outcomes. Key messages • Patient reported data on experiences and outcomes provide essential information for health systems performance. • Unique insights into the systematic collection of such information can be gathered through the proposed discussion on the experience of designing and implementing the PaRIS Survey.

Design and Signal-Decoding Test Verification of Dual-Channel Round Inductosyn Decoding Circuit

During the in-orbit operation of spacecraft, permanent magnet synchronous motors are commonly used as power sources in the drive mechanisms of solar panel arrays and the high-precision servo control systems based on satellites. Apart from the performance of the motors themselves and the software control algorithms, the accuracy of the entire control system is also influenced by angle sensors used to detect the rotor position of the motors. As a high-precision angular measuring instrument, the inductosyn possesses excellent environmental adaptability and long service life. Effectively utilizing the inductosyn can greatly enhance the performance of servo control systems. To address the complexity of the decoding process for dual-channel round inductosyn-to-digital converters, this paper proposes a design of the decoding circuit for dual-channel round inductosyn based on the parallel-synchronization decoding method of two AD2S1210 Resolver-to-Digital Converter (RDC) decoding chips. The decoding circuit amplifies the excitation signal outputted by the AD2S1210 for driving the round inductosyn, and processes the sine and cosine induction signals outputted by the round inductosyn through filtering, amplification, and other methods; by using analog circuitry, the output signals of the dual-channel round inductosyn are processed to meet the input requirements of the AD2S1210. Finally, through both the Multisim (circuit simulation software Version 14.1) simulation and physical experiments, it was verified that the decoding circuit designed in this paper could process the input/output signals of the dual-channel round inductosyn and AD2S1210, and successfully decoded the analog induction signal of the round inductosyn. This greatly simplifies the signal decoding process for the dual-channel round inductosyn.

Photovoltaic Modules’ Cleaning Method Selection for the MENA Region

Photovoltaic (PV) systems are important components of the global shift towards sustainable energy resources, utilizing solar energy to generate electricity. However, the efficiency and performance of PV systems heavily rely on cleanliness, as dust accumulation can significantly obstruct their effectiveness over time. This study undertook a comprehensive literature review and carried out multiple interviews with experts in the PV systems field to propose a map for selecting the optimal PV cleaning method for PV systems within MENA region. These factors, covering meteorological conditions, the local environment, PV system design, module characteristics, dust deposition attributes, exposure time to dust, and socio-economic and environmental considerations, were employed as criteria in a Multi-Criteria Decision-Making (MCDM) model, specifically, an Analytic Network Process (ANP). The results indicate that partially automated cleaning is the most suitable method for existing utility-scale PV projects in the MENA region. The findings provide robust guidelines for PV system stakeholders, aiding informed decision-making and enhancing the sustainability of PV cleaning processes.

Microalgae–Nanoparticle Systems as an Alternative for Biogas Upgrading: A Review

Anaerobic digestion is a well-established technology for the sustainable production of biogas. However, to be used as a substitute for natural gas or as vehicle fuel, it is necessary to remove carbon dioxide (CO2) and other contaminants from biogas that can compromise the useful life of combustion engines. Upgraded biogas is known as biomethane (>95% methane content). This work reviews the different technologies used for upgrading biogas, emphasizing microalgae–nanoparticle systems, representing a more sustainable and environmentally friendly system. Parameters affecting these systems performance are discussed, and the trends and areas of opportunity for subsequent work are evaluated through a bibliometric analysis.