Specific Performance Research Articles

POETICS OF MUSICAL BAROQUE: AESTHETICS, PERFORMING TRADITIONS, INTERPETATION

The purpose of the article is to identify performance strategies in contemporary musical culture that are related to the interpretation of ancient styles and genres as authentic examples of the cultural process in the age of globalization, based on the comprehension of the components of the poetics of the musical baroque. The research methodology is based on the cognitive, interpretive, historical and stylistic approaches necessary for a comprehensive study of this topic. The gender specification of performance is highlighted. The author analyses iconic works (Dardano's aria “Pena tiranna” from Act II of the opera “Amadis of Gaula”) and performances (the Sesto part from the opera “Julius Caesar” by G.F. Handel) in which the gender approach to the authentic “opera text” prevails; the role of the countertenor in contemporary art is characterized from the standpoint of historically informed performance. In connection with the great popularity and spread of the art of countertenors in the performance of ancient vocal music, the question of gender identification as a performance strategy has arisen, in the development of the concept of V.O. Gigolaeva. The conclusions outline the components of the performing poetics of the musical baroque era: the parity of vocal and instrumental thinking, sound imitation, improvisation on the contralto, and the performance of one's own cadences. The stylistic differences in the performance of Baroque music in terms of vibration, which is an inherent quality and characteristic of the voice, and methods of colourful sound formation that provide unlimited possibilities for performance are indicated.

Adaptive distributed dynamic average consensus with prescribed performance

AbstractA novel adaptive distributed estimation algorithm is developed for dynamic average consensus problem. The algorithm enables a group of agents to accurately track the average value of signals that are available locally to each agent. Unlike most of existing approaches that rely on error transformation techniques, our algorithm employs an adaptive‐gain based barrier function to simultaneously meet prescribed performance specifications of transient and steady state. It is both simple and easy to implement and is not dependent on bounded reference signals and their derivatives. Additionally, it can operate under less strict assumptions than those that assume absolute bounds on the signals. Simulation results are presented to demonstrate the effectiveness of the developed algorithm.

Biological variation and analytical performance specification study of erythrocyte and related parameters

Objective: To study biological variation (BV) and analytical performance specifications (APS) of 15 erythrocyte and related parameters. Methods: Sixty healthy participants from Beijing Hospital were prospectively recruited for the study, from July to December, 2023, including 30 males [aged (41.3±11.9) years] and 30 females [aged (40.3±12.4) years]. The study was designed based on the Biological Variation Data Critical Appraisal Checklist and the characteristics of erythrocyte detection. Whole blood samples were collected 10 times at 2-week intervals during 20 weeks. All samples were tested in duplicate using Mindray BC-7500 hematology analyzer and its accompanying reagents. Within-subject biological variation (CVI) and between-subject biological variation (CVG) were estimated by the nested ANOVA method. The BV data in this study were compared with the BV data of the European Database of Biological Variation. APS, reference change value (RCV) and index of individuality (II) were calculated. Results: The CVI for 15 parameters ranged from 0.49% to 86.46%, and the CVI data for red cell distribution width (RDW)-CV, RDW-SD, reticulocyte (RET) percentage, RET count, reticulocyte hemoglobin content (RHE), medium fluorescence reticulocyte (MFR) and high fluorescence reticulocyte (HFR) were significantly higher in females than in males (all P<0.05). The CVG ranged from 1.27% to 100.79%, and the CVG data for HFR were significantly different between genders (P<0.05). The CVI data for red blood cell (RBC), hemoglobin (Hb), mean corpuscular volume (MCV), mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC) and RHE in this study were lower than those recommended by the European database. The derived indicators of most parameters were influenced by gender. The II values for all parameters were<1.4, where the II values of MCHC and HFR were between 0.6 and 1.4; the II values for the remaining 13 parameters were<0.6. Conclusions: A BV study protocol for erythrocyte parameters is designed. When the reference intervals differ between genders, BV data should be calculated separately and the lower BV data are recommended for calculating APS; the RCV should be set separately for each gender.

Effect of substrate rotation on the growth behavior and topography of the [formula omitted] film deposited over a large area using DC magnetron sputtering with a rectangular target: Simulation approach and experiment

It is often challenging to achieve a uniform film with the necessary surface properties when using deposition techniques. If the film is not uniformly deposited or lacks suitable surface roughness, it may not meet performance standards. To understand and control the factors controlling the deposition process, this paper presents a simulation approach to predict the growth behavior of a Ti-film deposited on substrates during the bombardment of the target with argon ions at low pressure. The simulation of the deposition process consists of several Monte Carlo simulations, which include predicting the source of the atoms flow from the target surface and tracing its trajectories through the vacuum chamber until it falls or reaches the surface of the substrates, then predicting the thickness distribution and topography of film. After conducting a comparison between simulation predictions and experimental data, it was found that the measurements obtained using the Profilometer, Scanning Electron Microscope, and Atomic Force Microscopy were relatively close. The results indicate that substrate rotation during deposition leads to a thinner film that is more uniform and less rough, it was also found that the coefficient of variation in the film thickness distribution was improved from 3.96% in the case of a non-rotating substrate to 0.33% in the case of a rotating substrate. The proposed approach can be used to improve the design of magnetron sputtering systems and to provide theoretical guidance for optimizing the thickness distribution and topographical characteristics of the performance specifications of high-quality film without economic constraints.

WS-BiTM: Integrating White Shark Optimization with Bi-LSTM for Enhanced Autism Spectrum Disorder Diagnosis

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a multifaceted neurodevelopmental condition marked by challenges in social communication, sensory processing, and behavioral regulation. The delayed diagnosis of ASD significantly impedes timely interventions, which can exacerbate symptom severity. With approximately 62 million individuals affected worldwide, the demand for efficient diagnostic tools is critical. This study introduces a novel framework that combines a White Shark Optimization (WSO)-based feature selection method with a Bidirectional Long Short-Term Memory (Bi-LSTM) classifier for enhanced autism classification. Utilizing the WSO technique, we identify key features from autism screening datasets, which markedly improves the model's predictive capabilities. The optimized feature set is then processed by the Bi-LSTM classifier, enhancing its efficiency in handling sequential data. We comprehensively address methodological challenges, including overfitting, generalization, interpretability, and computational efficiency. Furthermore, we conduct a comparative analysis against baseline algorithms such as Neural Networks, Convolutional Neural Networks (CNN), and Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) networks, while also employing Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) for feature selection validation. We evaluate performance metrics, including accuracy, F1-score, specificity, precision, and sensitivity across three ASD datasets: Toddlers, Adults, and Children. Our results demonstrate that the WS-BiTM model significantly outperforms baseline methods, achieving accuracies of 97.6%, 96.2%, and 96.4% on the respective datasets. Additionally, we implemented leave-one-dataset cross-validation and confirmed the statistical significance of our findings through a paired t-test, supplemented by an ablation study to detail the contributions of individual model components. These findings highlight the potential of the WS-BiTM model as a robust tool for ASD classification.

Ensuring Quality and Consistency in OPC-53 Cement Testing: A Comprehensive Proficiency Testing Evaluation

The proficiency testing (PT) program is a critical part of quality assurance in laboratories, especially within industries like construction where cement testing is essential. This study provides a comprehensive evaluation of the fifth PT scheme for Ordinary Portland Cement (OPC) grade 53, conducted by the Nodal Laboratory. The key parameters assessed in this program were standard consistency, compressive strength, and soundness using the Le-Chatelier method. Twenty-four laboratories participated, and their performance was analyzed using advanced statistical methods, adhering to ISO 17043:2010 and ISO 13528:2015 standards. The results showed that most laboratories performed satisfactorily, with only one outlier identified in the soundness test. This paper covers all aspects of the PT program, from sample preparation to the distribution of materials, as well as the homogeneity and stability tests conducted on the samples. Statistical evaluation was carried out using Z-scores, which allowed the laboratories to be ranked according to their performance in each parameter. This method highlights discrepancies and provides a clear framework for participating laboratories to improve their testing procedures. Proficiency testing is essential for maintaining high standards in laboratory performance. It helps standardize testing methods across multiple laboratories, ensuring that OPC-53 cement meets strict quality and performance specifications. The program enables laboratories to identify performance gaps and take corrective actions, ensuring the reliability and accuracy of results. Participation in PT programs is a step toward continuous improvement, keeping laboratories aligned with international standards, ultimately benefiting the broader construction industry by ensuring the structural integrity of buildings and infrastructure. This study underscores the importance of regular PT participation. It not only provides a benchmark for laboratory performance but also ensures compliance with ISO standards. This fosters the consistent quality of cement used in large-scale construction, reducing the risk of structural failures and contributing to long-term safety and durability. The findings demonstrate the positive impact of PT programs on overall testing accuracy and laboratory reliability, emphasizing their role in advancing best practices in the construction industry.

Two-step GLIM approach using NRS-2002 screening tool vs direct GLIM criteria application in hospital malnutrition diagnosis: A cross-sectional study.

The two-step Global Leadership Initiative on Malnutrition (GLIM) approach was recently introduced to malnutrition diagnosis in a hospital setting. This study compares the diagnostic performance of this approach that uses the Nutritional Risk Screening-2002 (NRS-2002) as a screening tool and the direct application of GLIM malnutrition diagnostic criteria in hospitalized patients. This cross-sectional study involved 290 adult and older adult patients who were hospitalized. A trained nutritionist implemented the two-step GLIM approach, including NRS-2002 (in the first step) and GLIM criteria (in the second step) for each patient. Then, the accuracy, kappa index, area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC ROC), sensitivity, and specificity of malnutrition diagnostic performance of the two-step GLIM approach and NRS-2002 were evaluated compared to thedirect use of GLIM criteria. The NRS-2002 identified 145 (50.0%) patients as at risk of malnutrition. The prevalence of malnutrition using the two-step GLIM approach and GLIM malnutrition diagnosis criteria were 120 (41.4%) and 141 (48.6%), respectively. The kappa index showed substantial and almost perfect agreement for NRS-2002 (κ = 68%) and the two-step GLIM approach (κ = 85%) with GLIM malnutrition diagnostic criteria, respectively. Furthermore, the AUC ROC (0.926; 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.89-0.96) and accuracy (92.8%) of the two-step GLIM approach compared to the GLIM criteria indicated an acepptable ability to distinguish between malnourished and well-nourished patients. The two-step GLIM approach using NRS-2002 as a screening tool (in step one) had acceptable malnutrition diagnostic performance compared to the direct application of GLIM criteria in hospitalized patients.

Coefficients of variation analyses of internal quality control status for blood lead in China from 2015 to 2023.

Blood lead test is widely conducted in Chinese laboratories, while the imprecision of blood lead measurement based on internal quality control (IQC) across China has not been comprehensively evaluated nowadays. Using the IQC data of blood lead collected through a web-based external quality assessment (EQA) reporting system, we analyzed current coefficients of variation (CVs) of blood lead from 2015 to 2023 among Chinese laboratories. Two allowable total error (TEa) imprecision levels from EQA were applied to calculate the pass rates, namely percentages of laboratories meeting precision quality specifications. Besides, CV values and pass rates by different subgroups were further performed to assess potential differences. Generally, median CV values significantly declined year by year from 6.8% in February 2015 to 5.9% in March 2023. The pass rates based on 1/3 TEa showed upward trends increasing from 15.3% in February 2015 to 20.0% in March 2023, but these percentages were non-ideal with less than 25%. No significant differences in CVs were found between tertiary hospitals and non-tertiary hospitals and between accredited and non-accredited laboratories. Significant time trends were observed in tertiary hospitals and nonaccredited laboratories. As for manufacturers, Bohui and self-made QC sample were most widely-used with obvious interannual declining trends of CVs. The CVs of blood lead demonstrated continuous overall improvements in the past twenty years. However, relatively lower pass rates indicated the non-ideal imprecision performance, and more proper performance specifications are warranted. Thus, imprecision improvement and ongoing investigation for blood lead IQC are still needed.

Investigation of Performance Specifications for Marshall Mixes Using Performance-Based Mix Design Methodology

This paper presents a comprehensive study for developing the performance specifications for the Marshall mixes using the performance-based mix design (PMD) methodology. The specification describes the desired levels of fundamental engineering properties for predicting performance during mix design or quality assurance checks at the time of construction. In this study, the bituminous concrete mixture was designed through complementing volumetric criteria with performance tests such as dynamic creep and the indirect tensile asphalt cracking test for evaluating resistance against rutting and fatigue cracking, respectively. This study considers different factors such as five different types of design aggregate gradations (mid-gradation, fine-coarse gradation, coarse gradation, coarse-fine gradation, and fine gradation), three binder types (VG-30, VG-40, and PMB-40), and five levels of compactive efforts (35, 50, 75, 90, and 110 blows on each face). The study finds the effect of design aggregate gradation, binder type, and compactive effort on the rutting and cracking resistance of bituminous mixes. The research study also comprehends the influence of volumetric properties on the performance parameters. Further, it establishes the initial performance criteria for rutting and cracking for Marshall mixes. The performance space diagram (PSD) has also been plotted, portraying the overall performance (acceptable, desirable, or unsatisfactory performance regions) of bituminous mixtures based on rutting resistance and cracking resistance. This paper highlights and advocates the integration of these performance-based specifications into the Marshall mix design specifications for improving pavement characteristics and extending overall service life.

Assessment of Ensemble-Based Machine Learning Algorithms for Exoplanet Identification

This paper presents a comprehensive assessment procedure for evaluating Ensemble-based Machine Learning algorithms in the context of exoplanet classification. Each of the algorithm hyperparameter values were tuned. Deployments were carried out using the cross-validation method. Performance metrics, including accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, precision, and F1 score, were evaluated using confusion matrices generated from each implementation. Machine Learning (ML) algorithms were trained and used to identify exoplanet data. Most of the current research deals with traditional ML algorithms for this purpose. The Ensemble algorithm is another type of ML technique that combines the prediction performance of two or more algorithms to obtain an improved final prediction. Few studies have applied Ensemble algorithms to predict exoplanets. To the best of our knowledge, no paper that has exclusively assessed Ensemble algorithms exists, highlighting a significant gap in the literature about the potential of Ensemble methods. Five Ensemble algorithms were evaluated in this paper: Adaboost, Random Forest, Stacking, Random Subspace Method, and Extremely Randomized Trees. They achieved an average performance of more than 80% in all metrics. The results underscore the substantial benefits of fine tuning hyperparameters to enhance predictive performance. The Stacking algorithm achieved a higher performance than the other algorithms. This aspect is discussed in this paper. The results of this work show that it is worth increasing the use of Ensemble algorithms to improve exoplanet identification.

A-051 Validation and Implementation of the Stanbio Beta-Hydroxybutyrate Assay on Roche c502 Analyzer

Abstract Background β-hydroxybutyrate (βOHB) serves as a crucial biomarker in assessing, managing, and monitoring ketosis in various clinical scenarios, such as diabetic ketoacidosis and instances of alcohol abuse combined with starvation. This study aimed to validate a βOHB assay (Stanbio Laboratory) conducted on a Roche Cobas c502 analyzer and establish performance specifications. Additionally, we conducted a method comparison for three assays: Randox D-3-Hydroxybutyrate (Ranbut) assay on Roche c501 analyzer, Abbott Freestyle Precision B-Ketone strip point-of-care test, and the Stanbio Laboratory β-Hydroxybutyrate LiquiColor assay on Roche c502 analyzer. Methods Precision, linearity, limit of quantification (LOQ), method comparison, and sample stability were determined according to Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) guidelines, using commercial quality control materials (Randox Multisera) and residual patient samples (Lithium heparin anti-coagulated plasma). The reference interval was verified by residual samples from 20 healthy individuals (normal blood glucose, HbA1c, liver enzymes, and lipid panel results). Statistical analysis was performed by EP-Evaluator (v12). Results Intra-assay and total coefficient of variation (CV) were determined as 0% and 2.4% at 0.3 and 1.21 mmol/L, respectively. The linearity range of the assay was verified from 0.0 to 9.0 mmol/L. Using CV &amp;lt; 20% as criteria, the functional sensitivity (LOQ) was 0.10 mmol/L at least. Lithium heparin anti-coagulated plasma specimens were stable for 24 hours at room temperature or seven days at 4 - 8 ̊C. The manufacturer’s reference interval was verified as 0.00 - 0.40 mmol/L. The Stanbio βOHB assay on the Roche c502 analyzer demonstrated a strong agreement with the Randox D-3-Hydroxybutyrate assay on the Roche c501 analyzer with a slope of 1.053 (95% CI: 1.037, 1.070) and intercept of -0.005 (95% CI: -0.068, 0.059) (coefficient correlation R = 0.9992). A positive bias was observed compared to the Abbott Freestyle Precision B-Ketone strip POC test (mean bias = + 0.50 mmol/L; slope = 1.630, 95% CI: 1.404, 1.857; R = 0.9184), and this discrepancy occurred particularly at βOHB &amp;gt; 5.5 mmol/L measured by Abbott method. Conclusions The Standbio βOHB assay exhibited excellent precision and linearity across a brand range of concentrations. This assay strongly agrees with the Randox assay run on a similar instrument but discordance with Abbott’s POCT method at high βOHB concentration. Overall, the validated method provides a reliable and efficient means for measuring βOHB levels on a Roche chemistry analyzer, facilitating accurate diagnosis and monitoring of ketosis-related conditions in clinical settings.

Toward Analytical Performance Specifications for Immunosuppressive Drug Quantification in Transplantation: An Opinion Article.

Analytical methods require performance that meets the clinical needs. Different approaches for setting up permissible analytical imprecision goals (pCVA%) for drug analyses have been reported. The aim of this study was to calculate the pCVA% for cyclosporine, tacrolimus, everolimus, sirolimus, and mycophenolic acid using 4 alternative approaches, to compare the results and to critically discuss advantages and disadvantages of each model. The approaches to evaluate pCVA% were (A) based on biological variation observed in routine measurement results between 2022 and 2023 in the authors' laboratory, (B) derived from the terminal elimination half-life and dosing interval of the drugs, and (C and D) explored from the width of the therapeutic ranges (TR) by the 2 methods. For approach A, routine measurement data for cyclosporine and tacrolimus, obtained through liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry and electrochemiluminescence immunoassays, were evaluated separately. The 4 alternative approaches for deriving pCVA% yielded similar results, for cyclosporine and tacrolimus in an analytical method dependent manner. The average pCVA% was 5.2%, 5.6%, 5.1%, 4.8%, and 7.7% for cyclosporine, tacrolimus, everolimus, sirolimus, and mycophenolic acid, respectively. The most challenging goals were those using TR-related approaches, while those using the biological variation approach were most easily achievable. Approach B resulted in more stringent goals for drugs with longer elimination half-lives (eg, everolimus and sirolimus). There is no single ideal approach for setting goals of drug analysis. However, the pCVA% values derived from the various approaches are similar and confirm that a <6% target proposed by the International Association of Therapeutic Drug Monitoring and Clinical Toxicology is adequate and realistic in combination with state-of-the-art measurement technologies. In the authors' opinion, approaches based on the width of the TR are preferable, as they represent a common basis for clinical decisions and reflect elements of biological variation and analytics used to establish the TR.

Low-Complexity Tracking Control of Unknown Strict-Feedback Systems With Quantitative Performance Guarantees.

This article is concerned with the prescribed performance tracking control problem for the strict-feedback systems with unknown nonlinearities and unmatched disturbances. The challenge lies in the realization of a complete performance specification for trajectory tracking in the sense of quantitatively regulating the peak value, overshoot, settling time, and accuracy while ensuring that the initial condition holds naturally. To this end, an error transformation, equipped with a shifting function, is introduced and incorporated with a new-type barrier function. Then, a class of performance functions is exploited to quantify the settling times and steady-state bounds of the intermediate errors. Moreover, to improve the flexibility of formulating performance specifications for the tracking error, a pair of asymmetric performance boundaries are further designed. With their combination, a novel robust prescribed performance control (PPC) approach is proposed in this article. It not only achieves the quantitative performance guarantees but also preserves the unique simplicity of PPC, evading the needs for function approximation, parameter identification, disturbance estimation, derivative calculation, or command filtering. The above theoretical findings are confirmed via three simulation studies.

A precise machine learning model: Detecting cervical cancer using feature selection and explainable AI

Cervical cancer is a cancer that remains a significant global health challenge all over the world. Due to improper screening in the early stages, and healthcare disparities, a large number of women are suffering from this disease, and the mortality rate increases day by day. Hence, in these studies, we presented a precise approach utilizing six different machine learning models (decision tree, logistic regression, naïve bayes, random forest, k nearest neighbors, support vector machine), which can predict the early stage of cervical cancer by analysing 36 risk factor attributes of 858 individuals. In addition, two data balancing techniques—Synthetic Minority Oversampling Technique and Adaptive Synthetic Sampling—were used to mitigate the data imbalance issues. Furthermore, Chi-square and Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator are two distinct feature selection processes that have been applied to evaluate the feature rank, which are mostly correlated to identify the particular disease, and also integrate an explainable artificial intelligence technique, namely Shapley Additive Explanations, for clarifying the model outcome. The applied machine learning model outcome is evaluated by performance evaluation matrices, namely accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, precision, f1-score, false-positive rate and false-negative rate, and area under the Receiver operating characteristic curve score. The decision tree outperformed in Chi-square feature selection with outstanding accuracy with 97.60%, 98.73% sensitivity, 80% specificity, and 98.73% precision, respectively. During the data imbalance, DT performed 97% accuracy, 99.35% sensitivity, 69.23% specificity, and 97.45% precision. This research is focused on developing diagnostic frameworks with automated tools to improve the detection and management of cervical cancer, as well as on helping healthcare professionals deliver more efficient and personalized care to their patients.

The theatrical orchestra and the formation of symphonic performance in Kharkiv

The purpose of the publication is to define the specific characteristics of the functioning and role of the theater orchestra in the formation of symphonic performance in Kharkiv. The methodology. In the process of understanding the phenomenon of the Kharkiv Theater orchestra, a historical approach was applied, which allowed for the chronological reconstruction of the musical ensemble’s functioning. Additionally, a comparative analysis method was used to identify the unique features of the orchestra’s instrumental composition, repertoire development, and performance practices. The results. The specific functioning of theatrical instrumental ensembles in Kharkiv, which provided musical accompaniment for performances from the 1770s to the early 1870s, was examined. The study identifies factors that led to the establishment of a permanent “Orchestra of the Kharkiv Theater and Commercial Club”, which, besides performing in the theater, also served city artistic events from the mid 1840s to the 1870s. Key factors include the return of the Kharkiv Theater to private management in 1867, the activities of K. Vilboa from 1869 to 1873 aimed at creating a concert instrumental ensemble in the city, and the emergence of a new orchestra under the direction of G. Grazia in the Kharkiv Drama Theater in 1872. These developments facilitated the organization of symphonic concerts under the aegis of the Kharkiv branch of the Russian Musical Society from 1871. The scientific novelty lies in the determination that the primary source of symphonic performance in Kharkiv was the permanent orchestra of the Kharkiv Theater, active since the mid XIX century, whose instrumental and numerical composition met the demands of the provincial musical practices of that time. The conducting activities of K. Vilboa in Kharkiv during the late 1860s and the early 1870s were a driving force behind the formation of two orchestral ensembles in the city — the theater and club orchestras — whose instrumental and qualitative compositions aligned with the principles of symphonic performance. From 1871, in preparation for symphonic concerts by the Kharkiv branch of the Russian Musical Society, the theater and club orchestras were combined, each consisting of 20–30 musicians, ensuring that the symphonic orchestra met the required academic standards in terms of instrumental and numerical composition. Future research prospects are associated with identifying the specifics of symphonic performance in the cultural centers of Ukraine from the second half of the XIX century to the early XX century.

Analytical Conversion of Conventional Car to Electric Vehicle Using 5KW BLDC Electric Motor

The automotive industry is witnessing a paradigm shift towards sustainable and eco-friendly transportation solutions. This project aims to contribute to this transition by converting a conventional internal combustion engine (ICE) car into an electric vehicle (EV) using a 5 kW Brushless DC (BLDC) electric motor. The conversion involves the removal of the traditional engine components and the integration of an electric propulsion system. The key components of the conversion include the BLDC motor, motor controller, battery pack, and associated power electronics. The BLDC motor is chosen for its efficiency, reliability, and compact design, making it suitable for retrofitting into existing vehicles. The motor controller manages the power supplied to the BLDC motor, ensuring optimal performance and efficiency. The project explores the challenges and solutions encountered during the conversion process, including adapting the vehicle's chassis to accommodate the new components, integrating a charging system, and addressing safety considerations. Additionally, efforts are made to optimize the overall weight distribution and maintain the vehicle's original handling characteristics. Performance testing is conducted to evaluate the acceleration, top speed, and overall efficiency of the converted electric vehicle. The results are compared with the original performance specifications of the conventional car to assess the success of the conversion. This project not only showcases the technical feasibility of converting conventional cars to electric vehicles but also highlights the environmental benefits associated with reducing reliance on fossil fuels. The findings contribute valuable insights to the growing field of electric vehicle conversions and promote sustainable transportation solutions.

Feasibility of Metrological Traceability Implementation Using the Joint Committee on Traceability in Laboratory Medicine Database Entries Including the Fulfillment of "Fit-for-Purpose" Maximum Allowable Measurement Uncertainty.

In previous publications, the Task Force on Reference Measurement System Implementation proposed a procedural approach combining a critical review of entries available in the Joint Committee on Traceability in Laboratory Medicine (JCTLM) database with a comparison of this information against analytical performance specifications for measurement uncertainty (MU) and applied it to a group of 13 measurands. Here we applied this approach to 17 additional measurands, of which measurements are frequently requested. The aims of the study were (a) to describe the main characteristics for implementing traceability and the potential to fulfill the maximum allowable MU (MAU) at the clinical sample level of certified reference materials and reference measurement procedures listed in the JCTLM database; (b) to discuss limitations and obstacles, if any, to the achievement of the required quality of laboratory measurements; and (c) to provide a gap analysis by highlighting what is still missing in the database. Results were integrated with those obtained in the previous study, therefore offering an overview of where we are and what is still missing in the practical application of the metrological traceability concept to 30 common biochemical tests employed in laboratory medicine. Our analysis shows that for 28 out of 30 measurands, conditions exist to correctly implement metrological traceability to the International System of units and fulfill at least the MAU of the minimum quality level derived according to internationally recommended models. For 2 measurands (serum albumin and chloride), further improvements in MU of higher-order references would be necessary.

SExpHGS-based DBN: Serial exponential hunger games search algorithm-based deep belief network for heartbeat classification using ECG signal

Electrocardiogram (ECG) signal plays an important role in monitoring and diagnosing patients who suffer from several cardiovascular diseases. Numerous conventional techniques designed for cardiovascular disease classification face challenges regarding classification accuracy and also, find difficulty in automatic monitoring and classification techniques. Therefore, this work aspires to design a robust approach, which can precisely classify the ECG even in the presence of noise. Following that, this research introduces the heartbeat classification scheme by utilizing the optimization-based deep learning scheme. Here, the optimization algorithm, called the Serial Exponential Hunger Games Search Algorithm (SExpHGS) is newly designed by integrating the serial exponential weighted moving average concept in the Hunger Games Search (HGS) approach to train deep learning scheme. Initially, the pre-processing is performed by utilizing a median filter and subsequently, wave components are detected by utilizing the resolution wavelet-based scheme. Ultimately, SExpHGS-based Deep Belief Network (SExpHGS-based DBN) recognizes the ECG conditions of individuals. Here, the techniques are analyzed by utilizing the ECG Lead 2 Dataset PhysioNet dataset and analysis is carried out based on performance parameters, namely accuracy, specificity, and sensitivity. The attained values of the aforementioned metrics are 0.954, 0.965, and 0.938, correspondingly.

Real-world battery longevity of implantable loop recorders implanted for unexplained syncope: Results from a large single-center registry.

Implantable loop recorders (ILR) are increasingly used in cardiac rhythm monitoring and diagnostic work-up of unexplained syncope. ILR battery longevity, according to manufacturers' product performance specifications, typically ranges between 2 and 4 years, but real-world data in this population are lacking. This monocentric, prospective, observational study included consecutive patients with unexplained syncope undergoing ILR implantation between October 2007 and 2019. The main purpose was to determine real-world battery longevity of ILRs. Diagnostic yield and relationship between arrhythmogenic diagnosis and duration of ILR monitoring were explored. The study included 309 patients (59 years [38-73], 49% female) with ILR implantation for unexplained syncope. Median battery longevity was 42 [40-45] months. A total of 99.5% of ILRs reached prespecified battery longevity. The time to end-of-life varied by up to 33 months among the same ILR models. Overall arrhythmogenic diagnostic yield counted 27% (73% sick sinus syndrome, 20% atrioventricular block, and 7% ventricular tachycardia). Median time to diagnosis was 10 [2-25] months, with the latest event at 43 months. The cumulative diagnostic yield for arrhythmogenic event explaining syncope was 4.2%, 6.1%, 9.4%, 14.6%, 19.4%, and 26.7% at 1, 2, 6, 12, 24, and 48 months, respectively. In univariate analysis, first degree AV block and prolonged HV time on EP study were predictors of diagnosis, while QRS duration abnormality borderline missed significance. Real-world battery longevity of ILRs matched industry projected longevity in 99.5% of patients implanted with ILR for unexplained syncope. A battery longevity of minimum 3.5 years is recommended to maximize the diagnostic yield in this population.

Towards Resource Durability of Bridge Spans

The paper studies durability of metal bridge spans as resource reliability and operability characterized by their performance specifications and maintainability before the limiting state. The ultimate condition of superstructures, in which further operation is impractical without restoration work to ensure operation conditions. The qualitative assessment of the resource durability of superstructures is based on the supposition that they maintain the normative operability at least for the specified operational period from incubation and service life to residual resource, indicating the possibility of removing the superstructure beyond the "serviceable" limit.