Centralized Architecture Research Articles

HERP: Hierarchical and distributed clouds oriented efficient resource scheduling algorithm with stochastic requirements

With the development of cloud technology, hierarchical and distributed cross-cloud architecture is gradually replacing traditional centralized architecture, for example, used in edge (or fog) computing. Due to the fluctuation of resource requirements, if a node does not have sufficient resources to process requests, the same or higher-level nodes can share their resources by offloading or redirecting requests to themselves, at the possible cost of reduced service quality. However, it is difficult to effectively optimize the sharing effect based on mean requirements. We formulate the multilevel problem with horizontal and vertical resource sharing using stochastic models, identify the optimal structures with embedded subproblems, and obtain the approximation solution in an efficient dynamic programming manner. In the problem setting with a wide range of different parameters, the proposed algorithm can outperform existing mean and heuristic algorithms in all scenarios to improve the total satisfied requirements by up to 26%, and can be hundreds of times faster than these heuristic algorithms.

Fault-tolerant security-efficiency combined authentication scheme for manned-unmanned teaming

Manned-unmanned teaming (MUM-T) is an emerging network system which interconnects manned aerial vehicles (MAVs) with unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) to enhance mission effectiveness and reduce workloads. Like other wireless systems, MUM-T is prone to attacks from the open communication channel. Therefore, an authentication scheme is required to establish secure and trusted communication between the MAV and the UAV. However, existing schemes fail to provide adequate security features and necessary efficiency, mostly due to their incomprehensive threat modeling and improper use of authentication techniques. Moreover, traditional centralized architecture of the authentication server leads to the single point of failure (SPOF) problem, which jeopardizes the robustness and scalability of MUM-T. In this paper, we propose a fault-tolerant authentication scheme for MUM-T that will solve these problems. To enhance its security, we construct a new threat model consisting of adversary's capabilities, security features, and security challenges to ensure the security of a scheme under combination attacks. To preserve the highest possible efficiency, we propose the design principle of using lightweight primitives for authentication and applying public key operations in key establishment. To address the SPOF problem, we employ a distributed fault-tolerant mechanism to share registration information within authentication servers and defend against faulty nodes. As is demonstrated by the security proof and performance comparison, our scheme succeeds in improving security and reducing overall costs, which provides a better solution than existing schemes.

HPC software for modelling field electron emission

The aim of this work is modeling processes of field electron emission in strong electromagnetic fields. This problem is relevant for many technical and medical applications. At present time, electrical devices that combine a large value of field, a powerful relativistic effect and an ultra-short time interval of action are in demand. They find their application in the treatment of the surfaces with inorganic, organic and mixed structures. Modeling of such devices encounters certain difficulties due to the complexity of the mathematical description of the emission processes. In this paper, an approach using the method of large smoothed particles in combination with grid calculation of fields based on Maxwell's equations is proposed. The study was carried out within the framework of the problem of calculating the field emission of electrons from the surface of axisymmetric metal cathodes on Cartesian and unstructured curved meshes. To implement the approach, a complex mathematical model, a parallel numerical algorithm and its software realization have been developed. The elaborated software is focused on the use of multiprocessor computing systems with a central architecture. Test calculations confirmed the correctness of the proposed approach and the high efficiency of its software implementation.

Culture of Vineyard Roofs as Expression of Rural Architectural in Turkey: Nevsehir Goreme Examples

Folk architecture actions that define only need-oriented structures built by the society using local materials and local masters; Even though they were built without any concern for sustainability, they been contained important cultural assets in terms of reflecting the social and economic situation of the people. Immovable properties that serve different functions such as vineyard houses, wineries and agricultural warehouses built in the Central Anatolia geography of Turkey, which has fertile lands, have cultural value in the context of expressing the identity of the region in which they are located. In this study, vineyard roofs registered as immovable cultural assets by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism; it was examined in terms of material, technical and stylistic features. These structures, unique to Central Anatolian folk architecture, have been tried to be evaluated in an integrated manner with their architectural features and the conditions of the period in which they were built. The fact that vineyard roofs, which do not have any structural and functional similarities with vineyard houses, have not been the subject of a scientific publication before, was seen as a deficiency in the literature; these structures were cataloged by creating a typology based on the structures identified in Göreme Town and were subject to scientific study. Each of the vineyard roofs included in the study have been examined on site, photographed and measured. Since the vineyard roofs, which were examined with material, technique and decoration details, were seen to follow a certain line on the old vineyard road in Göreme Town; a sample that is significantly located along the route but remains within the borders of Uçhisar District today was also included in the study.

The monitoring system of running state data of converter station equipment based on sensor information and 3D positioning algorithm

Abstract The stable operation of multiple equipment in the converter station can ensure the safety of the DC transmission system. Once the fault occurs, it will pose a threat to the safety and stability of the power grid. It is necessary to monitor the running state of all kinds of equipment, and study the monitoring system of the running state data of the converter station equipment based on sensor information and a three-dimensional positioning algorithm. In terms of hardware design, TCP and IP communication protocols are used to connect the sensors, and the sensors are arranged according to the vibration conduction standard, constituting a three-layer monitoring architecture of monitoring center, sensor, and equipment. The sensor module is connected by interface, and the structure of the connecting control board for sensor data transmission is set to increase the flexibility of sensor nodes. In software design, the basic information of converter station equipment is corresponding to sensor technology, and the database of operating equipment is established. A three-dimensional positioning algorithm is used to determine the data output form, detect the running state data of the converter station equipment, and complete the system design. The experiment takes various types of running data as the test object. Under the system application in this paper, different running data can be correctly classified and data monitoring under various states can be realized, which has application value.

Robust and Privacy-Preserving Decentralized Deep Federated Learning Training: Focusing on Digital Healthcare Applications.

Federated learning of deep neural networks has emerged as an evolving paradigm for distributed machine learning, gaining widespread attention due to its ability to update parameters without collecting raw data from users, especially in digital healthcare applications. However, the traditional centralized architecture of federated learning suffers from several problems (e.g., single point of failure, communication bottlenecks, etc.), especially malicious servers inferring gradients and causing gradient leakage. To tackle the above issues, we propose a robust and privacy-preserving decentralized deep federated learning (RPDFL) training scheme. Specifically, we design a novel ring FL structure and a Ring-Allreduce-based data sharing scheme to improve the communication efficiency in RPDFL training. Furthermore, we improve the process of distributing parameters of the Chinese residual theorem to update the execution process of the threshold secret sharing, supporting healthcare edge to drop out during the training process without causing data leakage, and ensuring the robustness of the RPDFL training under the Ring-Allreduce-based data sharing scheme. Security analysis indicates that RPDFL is provable secure. Experiment results show that RPDFL is significantly superior to standard FL methods in terms of model accuracy and convergence, and is suitable for digital healthcare applications.

Review of Aleksander Laslo’s Research on Late Nineteenth and Early Twentieth-Century Architecture in Zagreb

Architect Aleksander Saša Laslo (Celje, 1950 – Zagreb, 2014) was one of the leading historians of Croatian twentieth-century architecture, with a research scope centered on the city of Zagreb. Its aim was to investigate the processes of modernisation, tracing the evolution from high historicism and eclecticism through Art Nouveau to proto-functionalism and New Building (Ger. Neues Bauen, Cro. novo građenje) – viewed through building spatial-organisation, construction, and then inevitably form. Laslo’s interest, of course, extended beyond the mere physical structure of the building to wider social, economic, and cultural context, and dynamic knowledge exchange with Central Europe during that time, within which Laslo positioned the architecture of Zagreb. Methodologically, since the very beginning in the early 1980s, Laslo relied on exhaustive research, cataloguing, and contemporary research of Central European architecture. To mark the tenth anniversary of the death of this prominent researcher of Zagreb’s architectural heritage, this paper provides the first review of Laslo’s work, highlighting its comprehensiveness, integrity, and scientific method.

CNS Delivery Systems Based on Nanotechnology with Particular Attention to Parkinson's and Alzheimer's Disease –A Review

Abstract:: Nanotechnology has emerged as a promising frontier in the field of drug delivery, offering unprecedented opportunities for precise and targeted interventions in neurodegenerative disorders, such as Parkinson's and Alzheimer's diseases. This review explores recent advancements in nanotechnology-based delivery systems designed to enhance drug transport across the blood-brain barrier and facilitate targeted drug delivery to the central nervous system. The unique challenges posed by the intricate central nervous system architecture, particularly in the context of Parkinson's and Alzheimer's diseases, necessitate innovative solutions to improve therapeutic outcomes. The review comprehensively discusses various nanocarrier platforms, including liposomes, polymeric nanoparticles, dendrimers, and exosomes, and their potential applications in drug delivery to the central nervous system (CNS). Special emphasis is placed on addressing the multifaceted challenges associated with neurodegenerative diseases, such as the need for sustained drug release, protection of therapeutic agents from enzymatic degradation, and the efficient crossing of the blood-brain barrier. Furthermore, the review highlights recent breakthroughs in nanotechnology-driven diagnostic and therapeutic approaches, ranging from early detection of disease biomarkers to the targeted delivery of neuroprotective agents. The potential of personalized medicine and the integration of advanced imaging techniques with nanotechnology for precise disease monitoring are also discussed. In conclusion, this review provides a comprehensive overview of recent advancements in nanotechnologybased delivery systems tailored for CNS targeting, with a specific focus on Parkinson's and Alzheimer's diseases. The synthesis of current research findings underscores the transformative potential of nanotechnology in reshaping the landscape of therapeutic strategies for neurodegenerative disorders, offering hope for improved patient outcomes and the development of novel treatment modalities.

Clinical, Ophthalmic, and Genetic Characterization of RPGRIP1-Associated Leber Congenital Amaurosis/Early-Onset Severe Retinal Dystrophy

PurposeTo present the clinical characteristics, retinal features, natural history, and genetics of RPGRIP1-Associated Early Onset Severe Retinal Dystrophy (EOSRD)/Leber Congenital Amaurosis (LCA). DesignRetrospective case series. MethodsReview of clinical notes, multi-modal retinal imaging, and molecular diagnosis of 18 patients (17 families) with EOSRD/LCA and disease-causing variants in RPGRIP1. ResultsThe mean age of visual symptoms onset was 0.87 ± 1 year (birth-3 years) and the mean age at baseline visit was 11.4 ± 10.2 years (1-39 years). At the baseline visit, 44% of patients were legally blind (range= 2-39 years) and there was no significant association found between age and best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) in cross sectional analysis. Retinal evaluation showed an abolished electroretinogram or a cone-rod dystrophy pattern, none or minimal pigment deposits, a hyperautofluorescent ring at the posterior pole, and a largely preserved central macular architecture, with retained outer nuclear layer and ellipsoid zone island into adulthood. Eleven variants (48%) were previously unreported, and 13 families (76%) had a double null genotype (DN). Twelve patients (67%) had follow up assessments over a 15.7 ± 9.5 year period. The rate of BCVA decline was 0.02 LogMAR (1 letter)/year. ConclusionsRPGRIP1-EOSRD/LCA often presents at birth or early infancy, with nystagmus, decreased VA, hyperopia, and photophobia. Patients with a DN genotype may develop symptoms earlier and have worse vision. Multimodal imaging may show a hyperautofluorescent posterior pole ring, and relatively preserved central macular architecture, suggesting that the condition is a promising candidate for gene supplementation.

Model-based framework for exploiting sensors of IoT devices using a botnet: a case study with android

ABSTRACT Botnets have become a severe security threat not only to the Internet but also to the devices connected to it. Factors like the exponential growth of IoT, the COVID-19 pandemic, and the ever-larger number of cybercriminals are incentivising the growth of botnets in this domain. The recent outbreak of botnets like Dark Nexus (derived from Qbot and Mirai), Mukashi, LeetHozer, Hoaxcalls, etc. shows the alarming rate at which this threat is converging. The botnets have attributes that make them an excellent platform for malicious activities in IoT devices used by organisations to safeguard the personal and confidential data of their customers, employees, and business partners. The IoT devices have built-in sensors or actuators that can be exploited to monitor or control the physical environment of the entities connected to them, thereby violating the fundamental concept of privacy-by-design of these devices. In this paper, we design and describe a modular botnet framework for IoT. The framework uses an enhanced centralised architecture associated with a novel ‘Domain Fluxing Technique’. The proposed framework will provide insights into how privacy in IoT devices can be incorporated at design time to check the sensors and actuators in these devices against malicious exploitation, consequently preserving privacy.

The updates in Libcint 6: More integrals, API refinements, and SIMD optimization techniques.

Libcint is a library designed for the evaluation of analytical integrals for Gaussian type orbitals. It prioritizes simplicity, ease of use, and efficiency for the development of quantum chemistry programs. In the release of version 6.0, Libcint supports the computation of integrals for various operators, such as overlap, Coulomb, Gaunt, Breit, attenuated Coulomb, Slater-type geminals, and Yukawa potential, as well as arbitrary orders of derivatives for these operators. To enhance the usability of the library, Libcint provides a uniform function signature for all integral functions. A code generator is included to automate the implementation of new integrals. To achieve better performance on modern central processing unit architectures, the library employs explicit single instruction multiple data parallelization in the code implementation.

Tailor-Made α-Glucans by Engineering the Processivity of α-Glucanotransferases via Tunnel-Cleft Active Center Interconversions.

The function of polysaccharides is intimately associated with their size, which is largely determined by the processivity of transferases responsible for their synthesis. A tunnel active center architecture has been recognized as a key factor that governs processivity of several glycoside hydrolases (GHs), e.g., cellulases and chitinases. Similar tunnel architecture is also observed in the Limosilactobacillus reuteri 121 GtfB (Lr121 GtfB) α-glucanotransferase from the GH70 family. The molecular element underpinning processivity of these transglucosylases remains underexplored. Here, we report the synthesis of the smallest (α1 → 4)-α-glucan interspersed with linear and branched (α1 → 6) linkages by a novel 4,6-α-glucanotransferase from L. reuteri N1 (LrN1 GtfB) with an open-clefted active center instead of the tunnel structure. Notably, the loop swapping engineering of LrN1 GtfB and Lr121 GtfB based on their crystal structures clarified the impact of the loop-mediated tunnel/cleft structure at the donor subsites -2 to -3 on processivity of these α-glucanotransferases, enabling the tailoring of both product sizes and substrate preferences. This study provides unprecedented insights into the processivity determinants and evolutionary diversification of GH70 α-glucanotransferases and offers a simple route for engineering starch-converting α-glucanotransferases to generate diverse α-glucans for different biotechnological applications.

Cyber Security of Smart-Grid Frequency Control: A Review and Vulnerability Assessment Framework

Smart Grid involves application of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) for monitoring, protection, operation, and control of interconnected power systems under various scenarios. Smart Grid Control (SGC) is an important aspect that is constantly subjected to various vulnerabilities, threats, and attacks under central and distributed control architectures. Cyber Security of smart grid control, especially, Load Frequency Control (LFC) is an important issue that is addressed in this article. The state-of-the-art in cyber security and attacks on smart grid control and intensive literature review is discussed with a comprehensive list of references on LFC. The authors present a part of their own work carried out on a systematic Vulnerability Assessment (VA) framework that can be used to identify weak points in the LFC system. The proposed methodology is explained for Vulnerability Assessment of the standard 39-bus New England test system and the 96 bus reliability test system to illustrate the concept of cyber security and Vulnerability Assessment of smart grid LFC.

Research on Multi-Objective Optimization Design of University Student Center in China Based on Low Energy Consumption and Thermal Comfort

Ensuring optimal building performance is vital for enhancing student activity comfort and fostering energy-saving initiatives toward low-carbon objectives. This paper focuses on university student centers in China, aiming to diminish building energy consumption while enhancing indoor thermal comfort. Parametric modeling of typical cases is executed using the Grasshopper 1.0.0007 software package, and the simulation of building energy consumption and indoor thermal comfort relies on the Ladybug and Honeybee plug-in. Employing a multi-objective optimization design method and the Octopus multi-objective optimization algorithm, this study integrates numerical simulations and on-site surveys to analyze how factors like building form, orientation, envelope structure, and others impact the indoor and outdoor environment. A comprehensive optimization design approach is implemented for the building’s exterior components, including the walls, windows, roof, and shading system. After conducting a comparative analysis of the annual comprehensive energy consumption and indoor thermal comfort before and after the optimization plan, it is determined that implementing these measures reduces the annual comprehensive energy consumption of the building under study by 58.8% and extends the duration of indoor thermal comfort by 53.0%. This study presents a practical optimization design methodology for university student center architecture in China, aiding architects in decision making and advocating for energy-efficient building designs.

A blockchain-based optimal peer-to-peer energy trading framework for decentralized energy management with in a virtual power plant: Lab scale studies and large scale proposal

The integration of distributed energy resources (DERs) such as wind, solar, batteries, etc. into the grid presents opportunities as well as challenges with regard to efficient coordination and trading. Virtual power plants (VPPs) have emerged as an important paradigm for aggregating and managing numerous DERs. This paper proposes a decentralized blockchain-based peer-to-peer (P2P) multilayer energy trading framework to facilitate optimized coordination of DERs within a VPP context. A control center, prosumers, and service operators constitute the model’s multi-layered architecture. Profits from feed-in tariffs, ancillary services, and P2P sales are optimized for revenue while expenses are minimized using a mixed-integer linear programming formulation. Smart contracts enable prosumers to trade energy units in the Ethereum blockchain with ease via a participatory web platform. The effectiveness of the framework in synchronizing power supply and demand within the VPP by coordinating the charging and discharging of storage systems in accordance with consumption patterns is demonstrated through performance evaluation. In contrast to conventional centralized architectures, the proposed framework utilized decentralized architecture efficiently consolidates and optimizes distributed energy resources (DERs) to improve grid stability and renewable energy utilization.

Design of Onboard Avionics Based on Commercial Off-the-Shelf Parts for TianQi-2 Nanosatellite

With the development of modern small satellite technology, short development cycles, low cost, and high reliability have become trends in the era of New Space. To achieve the above goals, an integrated centralized architecture of onboard avionics for an internet of things CubeSat was proposed, and CAN, I2C, and 1-wire buses were employed for telemetry collection and command sending. The implementation of onboard computers (OBCs) and the power conditioning and distribution unit (PCDU) was introduced based on the PC104 industrial standards. An arbitration switching strategy between the primary and backup OBCs was proposed so that the primary OBC had priority to be on duty. Over 98% of commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) parts were used to decrease costs, so a procedure for COTS part selection and a qualified method were presented for reliable application. The onboard avionics, including OBC and PCDU, were developed in six months, and the satellite has been in orbit for more than three years and still works well. The reliability of the onboard avionics developed using the philosophy of New Space is demonstrated by the three-year flight in orbit.

Systematization of public centers design methodology

The article deals with the issue of systematization of the development of project solutions of public complexes based on the analysis of their functional and planning structure and constituent elements. The author systematizes his long-term scientific research and project practice using theoretical sources, in the part of the formation of the architecture of public centers of large cities; conclusions are drawn regarding promising models for optimizing their structure.The nature of the interaction of elements in the modular system of the layout of public complexes is highlighted. A promising methodology for designing multifunctional complexes in an integrated modular system has been formulated. Conclusions were made regarding the possibility of the influence of such methods on the practice of designing public complexes.In this article, provision of "end-to-end" unification and "open" typification of block modules allows to expand the possibilities of alternative search for the most rational project solutions of large multi-functional complexes - public centers. This makes it possible to significantly facilitate the process of designing such objects, shifts the emphasis of creative searches from the layout of the internal structure and technology to the solution of architectural plastic and artistic tasks of the formation of urban ensembles of the center.The nomenclature of residential and public centers of large cities, as the main structural nodes of the city in unity with the adjacent system of settlements, is given. Conclusions are drawn on possible directions of unification and modular coordination of the constituent elements of multifunctional complexes - public centers.

AI-Enabled Space-Air-Ground Integrated Networks: Management and Optimization

AI-enabled Beyond 5G (B5G) and 6G technologies are promising candidates to support the future generation Space- Air-Ground Integrated Networks (SAGINs). The highly dynamic heterogeneity and time variability, however, complicate management and optimization efforts. Hence, based on the softwaredefined networking (SDN) technology, in the proposed hierarchical hybrid deep reinforcement learning (HHDRL) method, we demonstrate how one can combine both distributed and central architectures, by deploying local controllers in different domains and global controllers on the whole. It permits us to optimize the network through local fine control and global macro control. We also deploy the DRL models in the controllers, where the optimal policy is learned through the effective interactions between the agent and the environment, as well as via the feedback of the incentive mechanism. Finally, a case study based on resource allocation and related analysis illustrates in detail that the AI algorithm represented by HHDRL will significantly promote the management and optimization process of SAGIN.

SCIENTIFIC RESEARCH AND PRACTICE DESIGNING URBAN COMPLEXES ON THE EXAMPLE OF KYIV

The article examines the interaction of architectural research and design practice regarding the reconstruction of nodal public complexes of large cities. Examining the urban transformations of modern Ukrainian cities on the example of Kyiv allows the author to state the low effectiveness of our scientific recommendations. However, the coverage of such studies can have both scientific and practical results as recommendations for urban planning managers and designers. Some directions of the transformation of the urban environment at the turn of the 20th and the beginning of the 21st century in Ukraine are highlighted using the example of the city of Kyiv. Prospective trends of possible directions of transformation of the typology of public centers and residential complexes are formulated. The trends of reconstruction and development of the architectural and town-planning structure are considered. The hierarchy of residential and public centers of large cities as the main structural nodes of the city in unity with the transport and pedestrian infrastructure is presented. Conclusions are made on possible directions of transformation of existing buildings with the formation of new types of public centers. A retrospective examination of competition practice in Kyiv at the end of the 20th century allows the author to systematize his many years of scientific research and design practice in the part of forming the architecture of public centers. The scientific results of the research were implemented in a number of experimental and competitive projects of the author of public centers in Kyiv. The use of a systemic approach allows for the development of public centers regarding the placement and organization of the internal structure of such complexes.

Features of the architecture of modern rehabilitation centers

Architectural techniques for forming the space of rehabilitation centers of various directions are explored, and the main ways in which architecture influences the psychological and emotional perception of a person are identified. Using the example of implemented objects, the principles of organizing a spatial planning solution and forming the internal environment of rehabilitation centers, characteristic of a certain territorial context or architectural design, are considered. Particular attention is paid to the topic of introducing the natural environment into the space of the object, or its interaction with the landscape and environment.