Homogeneous Coordinate Research Articles

Optimizing Productivity and Resource Use Efficiency Under a Finger Millet-Based Cropping System

Finger millet, known for its resilience to adverse climatic conditions, is integrated with various crops to assess the synergistic benefits of intercropping. To obtain intercropping system benefits, crop association, and species combination play a crucial role. Hence, to augment the productivity, profitability, and resource use efficiency under the millet-based system, field research was initiated for three kharif seasons (2021, 2022, and 2023) at the Project Coordinating Unit, University of Agricultural Sciences, Bangalore, Karnataka, India. The outcomes indicated that crops under sole cropping outperformed their intercropping structure in yield. Amongst the intercropping systems, finger millet and groundnut at a 4:2 exhibited a significantly higher finger millet grain equivalent yield (3065 kg/ha), land equivalent ratio (1.64), and area time equivalent ratio (1.38). Also, net returns (Rs. 73,276 ha−1) were realized to be higher in the finger millet + groundnut intercropping system at 4:2 row proportion. Finger millet as a sole crop showed a higher energy output (72,432 MJ ha−1), net energy gain (60,227 MJ ha−1), and energy efficiency (5.95) in relation to other cropping systems. Still, it was analogous to finger millet + groundnut (62,279 MJ ha−1 and 60,378 MJ ha−1, 49,623 MJ ha−1 and 47,628 MJ ha−1, 4.93 and 4.74) at 6:2 and 4:2 row extents, correspondingly). The intercropping of the finger millet with groundnut has demonstrated superior carbon sequestration competencies making them more sustainable and carbon-efficient options compared to sole crops like niger, which showed net carbon loss. The present investigation concluded the adoption of the finger millet + groundnut (4:2) intercropping system as a feasible substitute for attaining overall enhanced productivity with profitability, resource use efficiency, carbon, and energy efficiency.

Integrating Building Information Modelling (BIM) for improved assessment and seismic evaluation of existing buildings: a case study

Abstract This paper presents a project case study on the seismic evaluation of an existing office building in Aceh, Indonesia, originally constructed in 1994 and having survived the 2004 Aceh earthquake and tsunami. The study explores the integration of traditional and modern survey techniques with Building Information Modelling (BIM). Given the limitations of older seismic codes and the challenges in evaluating existing structures, this research highlights the importance of utilizing advanced digital technologies, such as LiDAR and ground-penetrating radar (GPR), in conjunction with BIM. Within a span of three weeks, the project team developed a comprehensive digital model of the building, enabling detailed structural analysis to identify vulnerabilities that might compromise its seismic resilience. The paper discusses the methodologies applied, the building’s seismic performance, and the financial implications of proposed retrofitting strategies. The integration of BIM significantly enhanced project coordination, accelerated delivery, and improved documentation accuracy. This study highlights the advantages of adopting BIM to overcome challenges in evaluating existing structures and highlights the need for increased awareness and training in evolving standards to ensure the safety of older buildings in earthquake-prone regions.

European Science Diplomacy in the Southern Neighbourhood: Insights from Morocco and Tunisia

The resilience-building in the European Southern Neighbourhood benefits from access to research-intense solutions developed by and in collaboration with centres of competence located across Europe. Data-set observations retrieved from ‘Community Research and Development Information Service’ (CORDIS) indicate that despite the overall propensity towards establishing relational ties with Horizon 2020 project coordinators located in the European Mediterranean littoral countries, Morocco and Tunisia, profited from exposure to the thematically diverse and geographically dispersed expertise hosted by the European Research Area. Practice theory with a focus on the field and process tracing provide a good basis for analysing past research interlinks that offer some limited, yet valuable insights into the implicit European science diplomacy routines, including examples that support the positioning of France, Spain, especially Barcelona, as explicit science diplomacy hubs.

CRITICAL SUCCESS FACTORS OF AGILE SOFTWARE DEVELOPMENT IN WATERFALL PROJECT: A CASE STUDY APPROACH

The evolution of software development methodologies has seen Agile rise in response to the limitations of traditional approaches like Waterfall, characterized by its iterative, collaborative, and adaptable nature. However, integrating Agile within the rigid, structured frameworks of organizations accustomed to Waterfall presents significant challenges. This study addresses how to effectively combine these methodologies to mitigate conflicts and achieve successful project outcomes by identifying and analyzing the Critical Success Factors (CSFs) that enable a harmonious integration of Agile into Waterfall environments. Conducted at PT ABC, a firm balancing formal client interactions and contract creation with internal adoption of Scrum, this research uses the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) to systematically prioritize CSFs through literature review, questionnaire development, data collection, and pairwise comparison analysis. The findings reveal that "Communication and Team Environment" is the most influential factor, with a priority vector weight of 0.178, followed by "Project Management and Strategy," "Leadership and Management Support," and "User and Customer Engagement." These factors are pivotal in achieving a balance between control and flexibility in software development projects. The study's implications for PT ABC and other organizations, especially those handling multiple projects and requiring on-site presence while managing other projects, demonstrate how to leverage the strengths of both methodologies for optimal project outcomes. This research provides a model for other organizations striving for similar integrative efforts, showcasing practical strategies to enhance project flexibility and coordination.

Innovating Building Refurbishments: Embracing Global Digital Transformation for Today's Construction Industry

The Uberization of the construction industry is a clear indication that the sector is gradually shifting towards the digital era. This transformation signifies a significant digitization of construction, incorporating smart technology in various phases, from design and planning to execution, operations, and management. This paper delves into the importance of embracing digital technologies in building refurbishments to meet the evolving demands of today's construction landscape. By integrating innovative digital solutions such as Building Information Modelling (BIM), Internet of Things (IoT), artificial intelligence, robotics, and other cutting-edge technologies, refurbishment projects can achieve cost-effectiveness, precision, and environmental sustainability. The benefits of this digital shift encompass improved project coordination, safety, cost efficiency, and environmental impact management. However, challenges like high initial costs, resistance to change, cybersecurity threats, and skill shortages persist. The digital transformation is also shaped by global trends such as urbanization, population growth, and the push for smart, sustainable cities. Governments and private sectors acknowledge the potential of digital construction in meeting these demands more effectively. Thus, the industry must adapt to these technological advancements to stay competitive and address future infrastructure needs. The primary goal of this paper is to underscore the importance of embracing global digital transformation in building refurbishments, offering insights and recommendations for stakeholders in the construction sector to leverage digital technologies effectively for enhanced project outcomes and long-term sustainability. This study aims to explore the global digitalization of building construction, examining how advanced technologies like Building Information Modelling (BIM), Artificial Intelligence (AI), and the Internet of Things (IoT) are revolutionizing construction processes. By identifying the main drivers of digitalization in the construction industry, assessing the role of emerging technologies, and evaluating the benefits such as enhanced efficiency, cost savings, improved safety, and sustainability, this paper aims to showcase the necessity of digitalization to meet modern demands effectively. These abstract outlines the key concepts discussed in the paper, highlighting the advantages of integrating digital tools in building refurbishments, the obstacles, and opportunities in digital transformation within construction, and the potential impact on sustainability and project outcomes. Through case studies and industry insights, the study will demonstrate how digitalization is vital for staying abreast of modern requirements. Additionally, it will analysis case studies and successful implementations of digital technologies in refurbishment projects to illustrate best practices and lessons learned.

A New Perspective on the Homogeneous Coordinate System for Calculating Interatomic Distances and Their Derivatives in Terms of Internal Coordinates (Adv. Theory Simul. 11/2024)

A New Perspective on the Homogeneous Coordinate System for Calculating Interatomic Distances and Their Derivatives in Terms of Internal Coordinates (Adv. Theory Simul. 11/2024)

Identification of patient-reported outcomes measures (PROMs) and patient-reported experiences measures (PREMs) in Gaucher disease in Spain

BackgroundPatient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) and patient-reported experiences measures (PREMs) are crucial for understanding the impact of GD on quality of life and patient's perceptions on care, but also to guide decision-making processes. Nevertheless, no specific PREMs in GD have been published, neither PROMs for Spanish GD patients have been developed. MethodsTwo project coordinators selected key-points to be included in a PROMs/PREMs questionnaire, and the scientific committee and a group of expert patients contributed to the initial draft. Then, 9 meetings with experts were held to discuss controversial points. After, a questionnaire with 103 items regarding symptomatology, aspects of daily life and care experience was developed. Finally, it was conducted a Delphi survey among a multidisciplinary group of experts in GD. ResultsConsensus was reached on 85 out of the 103 items. Recommendations on PROMs and PREMs regarding symptomatology, aspects of daily life and care experience were obtained. Consensus was reached on the importance of considering fatigue, concentration problems, and communication issues in GD patients using 5-step analog scales. Panelists recommended asking GD patients about the impact on social functioning and work/school performance. Finally, consensus was reached on considering care experiences, such as treatment satisfaction, treatment interruptions or transitions and healthcare professionals involved in patient's management to perceive patient's perceptions. ConclusionThis expert consensus may help developing GD-specific PROMs/PREMs for improving GD management. Properly developed and validated PROMs/PREMs may help decision-making, establishing patient-tailored therapeutic and follow-up goals.

A novel technique of image encryption through projective coordinates of elliptic curve

A novel technique of image encryption through projective coordinates of elliptic curve

Project management, process control and organizational coordination of construction projects: Basis for construction project performance framework

Project management, process control and organizational coordination of construction projects: Basis for construction project performance framework

GESTÃO ESCOLAR E AS TECNOLOGIAS

This article is part of the research line of the Master's program in Emerging Technologies in Education at MUST UNIVERSITY and addresses the importance of educational management for innovative projects and their implementation. The article aims to reason the processes of deployment and implementation and the authors involved. The methodology used for the work is qualitative research to gather important information about the significance of the project coordination team, strategies, and their utilization. Therefore, at the end of the research, it is clear that the educational coordination team is essential for the effectiveness of the projects.

Project Time Management and Performance of Kenya Towns Water Supply and Sanitation Programme at Central Rift Water Works Development Agency.

The general objective of the study was to examine the influence of Project time management on the performance of Kenya Towns Water Supply and Sanitation Projects at Central Rift Water Works Development Agency specifically the study. The study was anchored by pickle jar theory, theory of constraints, theory of effective project implementation and communication theory. A descriptive survey design was used in this research. The study targeted project managers, consultants, coordinators, engineers, contractors, community representatives, and representatives from the Ministry of Water and Irrigation in three projects under the Kenya Towns Water Supply and Sanitation Programme, carried out by the Central Rift Valley Water Works Development Agency. The counties involved are Narok and Nyandarua. A sample size of 83 respondents was used. The participants in the study were chosen using a simple random selection method. Data was collected using a questionnaire and interview schedule. The analysis was both qualitative and quantitative. Quantitative data collected was analysed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 25. The study analysed both descriptive and inferential statistics. Thematic analysis was used to analyse qualitative data collected from the interview schedule. The analysis revealed a Pearson correlation of (r=0.512, p<0.05). This indicated a moderate positive and significant relationship between project time planning and the performance of Kenya Towns Water Supply and Sanitation Projects. The also showed a Pearson correlation of (r= 0.553 p<0.005) which indicates a positive and significant relationship, suggesting that effective prioritization of time-related tasks plays a crucial role in enhancing project performance. Additionally, the correlation analysis for time tracking yielded a Pearson correlation of (r=0.390 p<0.005). This suggests a moderate positive and statistically significant relationship between time tracking and project performance. Lastly, the study revealed the impact of project team communication on performance, finding a Pearson correlation of (r= 0.672 p<0.005). This indicated a strong positive and significant relationship, suggesting that effective communication among project teams significantly enhances performance outcomes. The findings indicated that 45.1% of the variation in the performance of the project could be explained by the independent variables studied, while 54.9% of the variation is attributed to other factors not covered in this study. The study concluded that project time planning, time prioritization, time tracking, and project team communication had an effect performance of Kenya Towns Water Supply and Sanitation Projects at Central Rift Water Works. The study recommends implementing structured time planning methods, enhancing time tracking, and fostering effective communication within teams to improve project performance. Future research should explore stakeholder engagement and the role of emerging technologies in water project management

Enhancing Project Management and Coordination for the Education Sector of Bangladesh: A Path Towards Achieving SDG4

The education sector in Bangladesh faces significant challenges in aligning with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG4, which aims to ensure inclusive and equitable quality education. This article explores the current state of project management and coordination in the education sector, analyzing various initiatives aimed at enhancing educational facilities and outcomes. Through a comparative analysis of key projects, the study identifies successes, challenges, and recommendations for improving project management practices to achieve SDG4.

Preface for LLMs4OL 2024: The 1st Large Language Models for Ontology Learning Challenge at the 23rd ISWC

We are pleased to present the proceedings of the “1st Large Language Models for Ontology Learning Challenge (LLMs4OL 2024)”, held at the 23rd International Semantic Web Conference (ISWC). This challenge marks a significant a dvancement in utilizing Large Language Models (LLMs) for Ontology Learning (OL)—a key Semantic Web component that facilitates the automatic extraction of structured knowledge from unstructured data. The challenge features three main tasks: Term Typing (identifying categories for terms), Taxonomy Discovery (uncovering hierarchical relationships), and Non-Taxonomic Relation Extraction (identifying other meaningful relationships between terms). Each task is designed to test different facets of ontology construction and to encourage the exploration of innovative techniques. This challenge seeks to foster collaboration, inspire innovation, and expand the capabilities of LLMs in OL. The proceedings include a collection of innovative solutions and insights from global participants, highlighting the crucial role of LLMs in enhancing the web with structured knowledge. We believe the outcomes of this challenge will propel further advancements in OL and its applications on the semantic web. We would like to extend our gratitude to all the participants for their invaluable contributions, which their solutions and dedication have greatly enriched this challenge. Our sincere thanks also go to the conference organizers and committee for their efforts in hosting this event. We are deeply appreciative of the reviewers for their evaluations and feedback. Their reviews have been instrumental in enhancing the quality of the submissions. We would like to specifically acknowledge: Dr. Amin Keshavarzi (Postdoctoral Researcher, L3S & TIB, Germany) Mostafa Rahgouy (Lead Project Coordinator, Auburn University, USA) Sahar Tahmasebi (Doctoral Researcher, TIB, Germany) Milad Molazadeh Oskuee (Lead NLP Researcher, Iran) Aida Usmanova (Doctoral Researcher, Leuphana Universit ¨ at L¨uneburg, Germany) Emetis Niazmand (Doctoral Researcher, TIB, Germany) Lastly, we would like to express our gratitude to ”Xenia Felice van Edig” and ”Karolina Linerová” from the TIB Open Publishing, for their support in bringing these proceedings online. We also would like to acknowledge that the 1st LLMs4OL Challenge @ ISWC 2024 jointly supported by the NFDI4DataScience initiative (DFG, German Research Foundation, Grant ID: 460234259) and the SCINEXT project (BMBF, German Federal Ministry of Education and Research, Grant ID: 01lS22070).

Quantifying Genetic Diversity Based on Morphological and Molecular Analysis in Pearl millet [<i>Pennisetum glaucum</i> (L.) R. Br.] Inbred Lines

The experiment was carried out with thirty pearl millet inbred lines at Research Farm of ICAR-AICRP on Pearl Millet, Project Coordinating Unit, Mandor-Jodhpur during kharif 2020 in randomized block design (RBD) with three replications. Morphological and molecular diversity was assessed in 30 pearl millet inbred lines by Mahalanobis D2 analysis and Simple Sequence Repeats (SSR) molecular marker, respectively. Total five clusters were formed from D2 analysis and seven clusters were generated from SSR markers data analysis. The character viz. panicle girth, number of effective tillers per plant and 1000 seed weight contributed maximum to morphological diversity. The clustering pattern based on SSR markers data revealed that genotypes at molecular level had high diversity as compared to that seen at phenotypic level. There was significant differences among the clustering pattern of D2 and SSR molecular marker analysis. The reason may be environmental influence on phenotypic level. This information can be used as selection criteria to have hybridization between diverse parents to exploit heterosis in pearl millet breeding program.

Re-imagining the Factors Influencing the Choice of Project Management Tools and Techniques in Tanzanian Infrastructure Projects: Elicitation of Practitioners’ Perspectives

Construction project Management tools and Techniques (CPMTT) are vital for the success of construction projects. Nonetheless, there is a paucity of studies that examined the factors influencing the choice of CPMTT in developing countries, particularly, Tanzania. The objective of the study was to analyze the factors influencing the choice of CPMTT in Tanzanian public infrastructure projects, with the aim to fill the knowledge gap. The study was descriptive in nature and employed a mixed method approach. Using purposive and snowball sampling techniques, data was collected from 60 out of 70 Project management practitioners including Consultants and project Coordinators within Dar-es-salaam Metropolitan Development Projects (DMDP) and similar infrastructure projects. Fifty valid responses were received equivalent to 83% response rate and interviews were done. Quantitative data from respondents was analyzed using IBM SPSS v25. The directed content analysis method was employed for qualitative data from 10 Resident Engineers to supplement the quantitative results. Using factor analysis, four groups of organization support, ease of access and usefulness of tools, fulfilment of project objectives, and project environment and idea generation were determined to influence the choice of CPMTT. Project managers frequently choose tools that are easily accessible without considering the organization's project objectives or resource commitment. The findings could be used as a guide for project practitioners to critically assess the areas of weakness and select CPMTT that can help address those weaknesses and hence improve project delivery in Tanzania, an unexplored context. Project managers are called to re-imagine project needs based on priority and select the CPMTT that satisfies the needs based on experience, skills and project objectives as crucial factors in the selection of CPMTT rather than using their discretion. This would improve the delivery of infrastructure projects and, hence, performance outcomes in the construction sector in Tanzania and other emerging countries. This study was limited to DMDP public infrastructure projects in Tanzania. Keywords: Construction Project Management Tools and Techniques (CPMTT), Decision analysis, mixed-methods, Tanzania

Запровадження проєктного підходу як інструменту забезпечення гнучкості та адаптивності підприємств у турбулентному середовищі

Introducing a project approach as a tool for ensuring the flexibility and adaptability of enterprises in a turbulent market environment is necessary for increasing business sustainability. The project approach allows enterprises to adapt to changes faster, reduce risks, and improve management efficiency. The modern market environment is characterized by high levels of uncertainty and turbulent change, necessitating the search for new business management approaches. Traditional management methods, focused on stability, often need to provide the flexibility and adaptability required for enterprises to survive in turbulent conditions. This article substantiates the role of the project-based approach as an effective tool for enhancing organizations’ ability to respond quickly to changes in the external environment, reduce risks, and improve management efficiency. The analysis demonstrates that the project-based approach promotes organizational flexibility, fosters innovation, and optimizes resource allocation — critical factors for the successful operation of enterprises in unstable market conditions. However, implementing this approach is accompanied by challenges, such as resistance to change and difficulties in project coordination. The article also explores various project management models, including hybrid approaches that combine the strengths of traditional and agile methodologies. The conclusions emphasize the need for further research focused on integrating the project-based approach with other management tools and studying the impact of corporate culture on the success of its implementation. The application of various models within the project approach framework allows organizations to respond more effectively to the challenges of the turbulent market, combining stability and predictability with the necessary flexibility and adaptability. Keywords: project, project-based approach, entrepreneurship, adaptability, flexibility, hybrid project models, turbulent environment.

The Impacts on Interorganizational Project Coordination: A Multiple Case Study on Large Railway Projects

Interorganizational transportation projects are increasingly difficult to manage because of a need to coordinate complex interdependencies pertaining to railway organizations with increasing levels of connectedness. In this article, the perceived dynamics of coordination mechanisms in the decision-making processes of interorganizational projects of the Dutch railway system are investigated. The results of this study suggest that the perceived effectiveness of interorganizational decision-making can be positively impacted during the pre-project phase, by emphasizing relational coordination. A reinforcing relationship between trust and mutual understanding among stakeholders by means of relational coordination mechanisms is one explored explanation.

We May Be Visually or Hearing Impaired, but We Need Access to Visual and Auditory Information

This study explored access to information by visually and hearing-impaired patrons at the selected public libraries in Drakenstein Municipality: Paarl, Drakenstein, and Groenheuwel. The three Drakenstein Municipality public libraries were selected because they collaborate with the South African Library for the Blind (SALB) mini-library project to provide information services for the visually and hearing-impaired patrons. Participants were selected through purposive and snowball sampling within targeted public libraries and Drakenstein communities, respectively. Qualitative data were collected through interviews with visually and hearing-impaired patrons, SALB project coordinators, sign language interpreters, library assistants, and librarians responsible for providing service to visually and hearing-impaired patrons. Document analysis and observation were also used to supplement the data collected through interviews. The data were analyzed using content and thematic analysis. The study revealed that none of the three libraries had a specific policy or set of guidelines in place to meet the information needs of visually- and hearing-impaired patrons. Furthermore, the study established that the visually impaired have limited access to braille resources and audiobook collections. It is recommended that the three libraries develop a policy addressing information access issues for visually and hearing-impaired patrons.

城市燃气工程项目施工质量控制及优化策略研究

This paper explores the quality control and optimization strategies for gas engineering projects, aiming to analyze and summarize the key technologies and management methods that enhance the quality and efficiency of gas project construction. First, the characteristics of gas engineering construction and its significance in energy infrastructure development are introduced. Then, the current quality issues in gas engineering construction are analyzed, followed by a discussion on how to improve construction quality through key technologies such as thorough preparatory work, material selection and inspection, and adherence to construction processes and operational standards. Further, the importance of optimizing project management and coordination mechanisms, improving resource allocation and utilization efficiency, and implementing green construction and environmental protection measures in enhancing overall project quality and sustainable development capabilities is discussed. Finally, the paper emphasizes that through a comprehensive strategy of technological innovation and integrated management, it is possible to effectively raise the quality standards of gas engineering projects, thereby promoting industry growth and contributing to the sustainable development of society and the economy.

A High-Precision Sub-Grid Parameterization Scheme for Clear-Sky Direct Solar Radiation in Complex Terrain—Part I: A High-Precision Fast Terrain Occlusion Algorithm

In atmospheric modeling, sub-grid parameterization is an important method for studying the topographic effects of solar radiation using high-resolution Digital Elevation Model (DEM) data. For reducing the amount of computation, some approximate methods that can lead to errors are used in existing sub-grid parameterization schemes for clear-sky direct solar radiation (SPS-CSDSR). The lack of a high-precision fast terrain occlusion algorithm (HPFTOA) remains one of the biggest constraints in this field. This study proposed an HPFTOA. It mainly uses two kinds of acceleration algorithms. One method is to use a dynamic, lossless, and fast occlusion search radius. Another way is to use the rectangular grid for calculations within the accuracy of DEM data to avoid coordinate projection conversions. The test results indicate that the HPFTOA can carry out large-scale computation based on DEM data with a resolution of 90 m. Because it rarely uses approximation algorithms and considers the curvature of the Earth, SPS-CSDSR can achieve unprecedented precision. The HPFTOA can also be used in the fields of mountain solar energy assessment, remote sensing, and telemetry, including terrain-obscuring the probe. As computer performance improves and algorithms and execution code are optimized, the application prospects will be very broad.