Management Methods Research Articles

Using AI for Dynamic Resource Allocation and Performance Optimization in Software Systems

This research work aims at evaluating the possibilities of using artificial intelligence in dynamic resource management and optimization of software system performance. In today’s complex world of application usage, normal methods of resource management are unable to cater to these dynamic needs and fulfill its usage potential. In this work, an assessment of three mainstream AI techniques – reinforcement learning, neural network, and genetic algorithm – is performed based on performance indicators such as resource utilization and consumption, average response time, throughput, costs, prediction capability, stability, and time taken to converge. The results show that the neural networks have the best resource acquisition performance as well as response rates, while the reinforcement learning has the best cost management and flexibility rates. As it has been pointed out, genetic algorithms are quite useful in finding optimization solutions, however real-time responsiveness is lack. Thus, the results provide significant understating of how to choose the proper AI technique depending on the specific application needs which in turn will be useful for organizations willing to improve their resource management using AI-based solutions.

Research progress on topology and energy management of fuel cell hybrid power ships

Abstract With the increasing awareness of environmental protection, the maritime industry is moving towards green and low-carbon development. Fuel cells, due to their pollution-free and high-efficiency characteristics, are one of the key technologies driving the green transformation of traditional ships. However, fuel cells have relatively soft output characteristics and often require other energy storage components to provide supplementary power. This paper reviews the types, advantages, and disadvantages of the topologies of fuel cell hybrid power ships, analyses the current development status of energy management goals and methods, and finally provides an outlook on the development of fuel cell hybrid power ships.

An energy management method for combined load forecasting of fuel cell ships

Abstract The article proposes an energy management method (EMM) for fuel cell ships, which consists of two parts: load forecasting (LF) and real-time optimized scheduling (RTOS). LF is composed of Long Short-Term Memory neural networks, which are capable of being trained to predict future loads based on historical ship load information. RTOS consists of model predictive control and can allocate energy in real time. Initially, shiploads and battery status are collected in real time, and then LF passes the predicted load sequence to RTOS. RTOS optimizes real-time energy allocation based on the predicted load and the current operating status of two sets of batteries, while meeting system constraints and maintaining the battery SOC at a healthy level, to minimize operational cost consumption. The simulations demonstrate that the EMM can consistently maintain SOC at a healthy level and reduce fuel cell ship operating costs to some extent, thereby improving economic efficiency.

A smart home energy management system based on human activity recognition and deep reinforcement learning

Smart home energy management systems (SHEMS) can help users save on energy costs by controlling various household loads in response to environmental changes. However, human activity is closely related to household energy consumption, which can lead to potential energy waste. Additionally, smart homes often feature multiple types of distributed energy resources (DER), and how to leverage their potential for participating in grid scheduling without significantly impacting users remains an unresolved issue. This paper proposes an intelligent home energy management method based on human activity recognition (HAR) and deep reinforcement learning. By using activity recognition results derived from intrusive load monitoring (ILM), we categorize contexts into two groups. The agent employs the soft actor-critic (SAC) algorithm for real-time control. In the first context, the goal is to ensure user satisfaction while reducing energy costs. In the second context, the focus is on controlling DER to participate in grid ancillary services to generate revenue. The proposed agent is trained using a real dataset, and simulations validate the effectiveness of the algorithm in home energy management.

Switching from intermittent catheterization with single-use catheter to a reusable catheter has a negative impact on quality of life.

It has been proposed that reusable catheters are more cost effective and environmentally sustainable than single-use catheters intended for intermittent catheterization (IC). However, the aspect of individuals' well-being and preference for catheter type is not considered. In this study, we investigated the impact on individuals' health-related quality of life (HR-QoL) when testing a reusable catheter. The study was an open-labeled, single-arm, multicenter investigation with a treatment period of 28 days. Forty subjects using single-use hydrophilic catheters were accustomed to a reusable catheter for managing IC. HR-QoL was evaluated by the Intermittent-Self Catheterization Questionnaire (ISC-Q). Additionally, satisfaction was evaluated by the Intermittent Catheterization Satisfaction Questionnaire (InCaSa-Q). The difference in total score was analyzed using a mixed linear model. Furthermore, preference for IC (single-use vs. reusable) was assessed and microbial evaluation of the catheters was performed. The total ISC-Q score measuring HR-QoL decreased significantly by 28% (p < 0.001). Two of the four subdomains (ease-of-use and discreetness) also decreased significantly (p < 0.001). The total InCaSa-score and all four subdomains evaluating satisfaction decreased significantly (p < 0.005). The primary study results were supported by the fact that 90.9% of subjects preferred to use a single-use catheter for IC. Furthermore, 50% of reusable catheters were contaminated with bacteria. Switching from single-use to reusable IC resulted in a significant decrease in HR-QoL and satisfaction. Moreover, the vast majority preferred the single-use catheter due to handling and convenience. The users' rights to their preferred bladder management method should be acknowledged.

Enhanced voltage management method based on hybrid transformer for wind power integration applications

The rapid voltage fluctuations and even exceedances caused by power variability of wind generations significantly impede their application within the power system. This paper presents a method for replacing the electromagnetic transformer at the Point of Common Coupling of wind power delivery systems with a hybrid transformer (HT) to enhance its voltage management and grid integration capabilities. Considering the operation voltage in wind farm and scalability, a cascaded H-bridge based HT model has been established. The operation modes and a set of control strategies groups have been analyzed and proposed. The HTs operate by default in reactive power compensation mode to manage the dual-side voltage coordinately. In case of reactive power contention and circulation, this paper proposes an additional reactive power circulation suppression method. Once it exceeds the reactive voltage regulation limits due to the grid faults or changes of gird operation modes, HT adopts ratio fast regulation mode, maintaining the wind-farm side node voltage and preventing wind turbine tripping. The influence of HT leakage reactance has also been studied here. Finally, the effectiveness of the proposed method is validated in simulation, which provides a new paradigm for the operational application of HTs.

Management strategies of translocated pondweed Monochoria hastata and its ecological and economic impacts

Understanding the impacts of, and options for, controlling invasive species is crucial to their management. Wetlands are a widely invaded ecosystem, since dispersal of aquatic species is facilitated by seasonal flooding. This study evaluated the effects of the translocated pondweed Monochoria hastata on fish and rice production in two wetlands of Bangladesh over six years (2017-2022). Fish and rice production were compared between control (negligible M. hastata) and three treatments under different M. hastata management methods comprising manual-, herbicide- and mechanical-treatment. Density of M. hastata increased significantly in all treatment groups over time in both wet and dry seasons. However, M. hastata density was lower by 270% in the dry season than the wet season. For fishes, a negative relationship between M. hastata density and fish production was recorded for snakeheads and catfishes, the most saleable fishes, whereas a mixed pattern was recorded for barbs and minnows across treatments. A positive relationship occurred between the density of M. hastata and production of the most common fish, mud eel, and therefore, the overall fish production increased in all treatment groups. Compared to control plots, rice production was lower in M. hastata infested plot groups. Among the M. hastata infested plot groups, rice production in herbicide-and mechanical-treatment groups was similar but lower than the manual-treatment group. Although manual-treatment plots yielded greater rice production, the weed management cost was also higher. This study provides evidence that translocated M. hastata can be of an invasive nature and impact rice production, not only by reducing yield but also by increasing the production costs through additional management for M. hastata control. Its presence in wetlands in Bangladesh can increase overall fish production due to the overriding influence of increased mud eel yield which has little demand locally but can decrease the species of high demand (e.g. snakehead and catfish). None of the existing control measures are effective in controlling M. hastata. Further research is needed on better management approaches for both agricultural and fish production in areas invaded by M. hastata.

Big Data and Machine Learning-Based Iot Models for Sustainable Energy Prediction

Integrating Big Data and Internet of Things (IoT) platforms is the focus of this research, which aims to improve energy management. The problem statement is centered on the potential for development through advanced technologies and the inefficiencies in traditional energy management methods. The objectives are to analyze energy consumption patterns, develop an innovative Home Energy Management System (HEMS) architecture, and offer energy-saving solutions. Synthetic energy consumption data is generated, normalized, and divided into training and testing sets from a methodological perspective. K-nearest neighbors, Decision Trees, Support Vector Regression, and Random Forest are the machine learning models trained and evaluated. The Random Forest model outperforms other models in terms of the accuracy of its predictions of energy consumption. The integration of renewable energy sources with cutting-edge technology to revolutionize energy management practices is the essence of novelty. In conclusion, this investigation underscores the importance of utilizing advanced technologies to promote sustainable energy management, providing practitioners and policymakers with practical insights.

When blood is not an option. The awareness of bloodless medicine among Polish nurses

ObjectivesBlood transfusions (BTs) are generally safe and potentially life-saving but come with risks. The World Health Organization advocates reducing unnecessary transfusions and using patient blood management strategies and techniques. However, providing bloodless medical care to patients who prefer to avoid blood-related treatments is a challenge. This is because healthcare professionals’ beliefs about blood transfusion may not align with those of their patients. This study delves into Polish nursing personnel's attitudes toward bloodless medicine (BM), highlighting the potential gap between their knowledge and patient needs. MethodsWe conducted an online survey among 202 Polish nurses on non-blood management techniques, risks related to BT and BM, and nurses’ educational needs regarding BM. ResultsAlthough many nurses had some knowledge of BM, Polish nurses’ awareness of non-blood management techniques is relatively low: while less than half knew alternative treatment methods and drugs used in BM, many were unaware of the various risks or side effects related to BM. It also shows that more than three-quarters of nurses believed that patients should have the right to make an informed refusal of BT. While 87.1% of nurses rated their knowledge about BM insufficient or very poor, 66.3% did not feel prepared to care for patients who require non-blood management techniques. ConclusionsThis study underscores the urgent need to educate nurses on blood conservation methods, blood substitutes, and techniques of non-blood management. Incorporating these into the nursing curriculum is crucial for patients’ safety and well-being and our healthcare system's effectiveness. The potential impact of these findings on the healthcare system is significant, underlining the urgency and importance of addressing the knowledge gap in non-blood management techniques. Public Interest SummaryAlthough the World Health Organization recommends using non-blood management techniques, most nurses providing bloodless medical care to patients who wish to avoid blood transfusion do not feel prepared to care for such patients. This study describes the attitudes of Polish nursing personnel toward bloodless medicine. It demonstrates that Polish nurses do not possess knowledge of non-blood management techniques, and their awareness of patient blood management methods and drugs used in bloodless medicine is low. However, it also reveals a positive aspect: Most Polish nurses are interested in broadening their knowledge of bloodless medicine. This strong motivation to improve their skills and knowledge in this area is encouraging and should be harnessed to drive positive change in the field of bloodless medicine.

Controlling as a Modern Management Method Used in Polish Fuel Enterprises

Controlling as a Modern Management Method Used in Polish Fuel Enterprises

EFFECT OF IN-SERVICE TEACHER TRAINING PROGRAM ON TVET TRAINERS PERFORMANCE IN TECHNICAL SECONDARY SCHOOLS IN RWANDA,A CASE OF KICUKIRO DISTRICT

The general objective of this study was to examine the influence of an in-service teacher training program on the performance of TVET trainers in Kicukiro district. Specifically, this studys objectives were: to identify the level to which TVET trainer receive in-service teacher training program in Technical Secondary School Kicukiro District, to assess the level of performance of TVET trainers in Technical Secondary Schools in the Kicukiro District and to evaluate the relationship between in-service training program and TVT trainers performance in Technical Secondary School Kicukiro District. The combination learning theory and system theory was served as the researchers guide. The studys population was 207 people (197 teachers and 10 head teachers) from all of the Kicukiro Districts Technical Secondary Schools. The survey was designed in a descriptive manner. A sample size of 137 was chosen using Yamanes formula. Using random sampling and purposeful selection, the population was chosen as the sample size for the study. Every questionnaire was dispersed by the researcher. The format of the analysis was influenced by the particular qualitative and qualitative methodology employed as well as the format of the data. The data that was collected in this study was examined and displayed in the order of the research objectives utilizing frequency, percentages, and tables as descriptive statistics. Data was gathered via teacher questionnaires and head teacher interview guides. The researcher examined and interpret the results after going to the field. The study found that 84.5% of the respondents agreed that they participate in service teacher training program every time, 94% of the respondents agreed that In-service teacher training program is very necessary for all teachers, 52.5 of the respondents disagreed that In-service teacher training program is only for new teachers, 57.6% of the respondents Disagreed that In-service teacher training program is necessary for old teachers while 60.5% of the respondent disagreed that In-service teacher training program is not necessary at all. 83.8% of the respondents agreed that their participation in an in-service teacher training program has helped them improve personalities and instructional techniques in the classroom and at school, 89.7% of the respondents agreed that with the help of the in-service teacher training program, and they are able to acquire new methods of classroom management and instruction, while 94.1% of the respondents agreed that the in-service teacher training program motivates and makes teachers love their professions.The research suggests that the Ministry of Education, education planners, and stakeholders should enhance in-service training programs for TVET trainers in Kicukiro District, Rwanda, focusing on upgrading technical skills, improving instructional methodologies, establishing robust monitoring mechanisms, and investing in infrastructure.

Improving the technology transfer in Ukraine under the conditions of implementing the international policy of sustainable development

The object of this research is a set of management and regulatory methods of state influence on the technology transfer of Ukraine in the context of the implementation of the global model of sustainable development policy. Methods and techniques of public regulation of technology transfer in Ukraine and its compliance with the requirements of sustainable development are studied. The analysis and generalization of the existing world and international approaches to the definition of sustainable development policy established that technology transfer is one of the key objects of managerial influence. It has been proven that the existing regulatory model of technology transfer in Ukraine, formed without taking into account the goals of sustainable development, does not meet its strategic development objectives. The expediency of improving the existing concept of regulation and management of technology transfer in Ukraine in order to eliminate the identified inconsistencies is substantiated. Recommendations have been made regarding directions for improving regulatory and management approaches to determining technology transfer in Ukraine. The necessity of making changes to the provisions of the Law of Ukraine «On State Regulation of Activities in the Field of Technology Transfer» has been proved, with the aim of bringing it into line with the international policy of sustainable development. The research is aimed at the formation of general theoretical foundations for the improvement of managerial and regulatory methods of technology transfer in Ukraine. The research results can be used in the improvement of public rules of technology transfer, the formation of strategic public management decisions, state technological policy and serve as a basis for further scientific research on these issues. The conclusions obtained in the course of this research can be used to solve issues and problems of improving the current legislation of Ukraine to the requirements of international agreements and documents.

Dupilumab Efficacy in Children with Palmoplantar Eczema

Background. Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic inflammatory skin disease with such clinical manifestations as eczematous lesions and itching. One of its clinical forms is palmoplantar eczema. It is urgent and unresolved issue in pediatric dermatology as this disease significantly affect the patients’ quality of life due to involvement of functionally significant areas, symptoms severity, difficult induction of remission. Clinical case description. This article presents case series of patients with AD involving palms and soles who have shown positive results to the treatment with genetically engineered biologic drug — dupilumab. Conclusion. Palmoplantar eczema, as one of the forms of AD, hardly responds to topical therapy in clinical practice of dermatologist. Moreover, systemic treatment is not only limited in pediatrics, but also is not effective enough. Prescription of the genetically engineered biologic drug, dupilumab, seems to be one of the effective methods for management of this disease in these patients.

Current Management of Pediatric Patients with Post-Burn Scars: Case Study

Background. Post-burn scars are common among pediatric patients. Pathological scarring is clear indication for conservative or surgical management of pediatric patients who continue to grow and develop after the resolution of burn injuries. Such lesions can significantly reduce patients' quality of life and, moreover, cause significant functional and aesthetic discomfort. Clinical cases description. The results of observation over two children (2 years 7 months and 12 years) with developing post-burn scars are demonstrated. Successful management method using physiotherapeutic complex (including monopolar radiofrequency treatment combined with ultrasound therapy, photodynamic therapy, and close-focus X-ray therapy) is presented. Conclusion. Modern trends in post-burn scars management are based on timely implementation of effective and safe methods early on rehabilitation stages and tissue restoration after burn injury to prevent pathological scarring and achieve control over its activity.

Influence of Trenchless Subsurface Drainage with a Rice Husk Filling System on Soybean Productivity Under a Poorly Drained Paddy Field for Future Applications in Smart Agriculture

In South Korea, paddy fields are increasingly being planted with soybeans to address rice supply and demand issues and increase soybean self-sufficiency. The field crops cannot grow healthily without adequate drainage due to the paddy fields storing water easily. In this study, we identified that Rice Husk Filling Drainage Method (RHDM) technology improved soil permeability and soil aeration. We also found that the soil moisture content was reduced and the water table remained at a lower level in the RHDM plot as compared to the control plot. The soybean moisture stress index showed that in the RHDM plot, the safety standard for stress due to excessive moisture at the 2 m interval was met. The soybean yield was increased by up to 35% in the 2 m RHDM construction interval compared to the control plot. In addition, the high hydraulic conductivity of the rice husk used as the hydrophobic material confirmed sufficient drainage performance and was considered economically advantageous. Therefore, our results show that RHDM is a highly efficient and economical drainage method in poorly drained paddy soils. Drainage management is essential for stable crop production in poorly drained paddy fields. Our research findings suggest that an efficient open field water management method is viable, which we believe will lead to future advances in open field smart agriculture.

지속가능한 프로젝트 관리를 위한 프로젝트 제어 방안: 도로 침수 예방 사례 프로젝트를 중심으로

As environmental pollution, energy depletion, and maintenance difficulties due to changes in social requirements arise during project progress, interest in the sustainability of project management has increased. Accordingly, sustainable project management theories have been proposed to complement the short-term goal-focused approach and performance evaluation methods that existing project management methods have adhered to. However, the sustainable project management theories have not been extended to empirical research. In this paper, we provides a case study of a sustainable project management framework and control mechanisms such as a collaboration model and incentive model using a road flood prevention project as an example. The case project was a project for improving urban infrastructure and was carried out with consideration for environmental, social, and economic sustainability. Through sustainable project management, the case project was able to achieve its sustainability goals and shows the results of the application of the control mechanisms.

Reviewing the Impact of Engineering Measures on Soil Erosion in Jammu and Kashmir Anantnag Watershed

Planners now find that stopping soil loss in India's watersheds must be their top priority. Currently, a wide range of mathematical models are used worldwide to predict soil erosion. The Revised Universal Soil Loss Equation (RUSLE), which is frequently used to predict average soil loss, is one such model. Recently, there has been an increased emphasis on applying USLE/RUSLE in conjunction with Geographic Information System (GIS) technology, enabling grid-based analysis for predicting soil erosion and aiding management methods. This study assesses the efficacy of flood control and erosion management programs launched in 1914. Four different maps representing the possible erosion threats were created for four different time periods, and a comparison study was carried out to assess the changes that occurred. The implementation of various strategies such as terracing, afforestation, and rehabilitation in the watershed led to a noteworthy prediction of decreased soil loss in the watershed. In the temperate region of Jammu and Kashmir and sparsely vegetated areas, the rate of anticipated soil loss decreased from 632 to 378 metric tons per hectare per year between 1990 and 2020, indicating the efficacy of soil conservation measures in mitigating potential soil loss.

Carotid artery stenosis: diagnosis and guidelines for management

In carotid artery stenosis, the carotid arteries become blocked by fatty cholesterol deposits. Older individuals with high cardiovascular risk are disproportionately susceptible to this condition, for which risk factors include smoking, high cholesterol, male sex, and older age. When the vascular endothelium is damaged by the above-mentioned causes, low-density lipoproteins invade the inside of the endothelium and undergo an oxidation process. Monocytes infiltrate the endothelium in response to oxidized low-density lipoproteins and transform into lipid-laden macrophages, thereby activating inflammatory responses. As this inflammatory reaction progresses further, various decomposing enzymes are secreted, causing the atherosclerotic plaque to rupture and various thrombogenic materials to be secreted into the blood, resulting in the formation of blood clots and vascular stenosis or occlusion. This can cause symptoms ranging from mild, such as blurred-vision, to severe, such as life-threatening stroke. Carotid artery stenosis accounts for approximately 10% of all strokes. Therefore, early diagnosis and appropriate management are very important. When choosing between medical and surgical treatment, it is necessary to consider various factors, such as patient characteristics, symptoms, risk factors, and imaging results. In this review, we discuss the pathophysiology of carotid artery stenosis, risk factors, and the importance of prompt diagnosis and treatment. In particular, we focus on how to determine the need for treatment and select management methods for each individual patient.

Development of the model and improvement of the method of automated control of steam turbine parameters to minimize the power imbalance in the energy system to increase its efficiency

The object of research is the process of regulating power imbalances due to automated control of steam turbine parameters. The work solves the problem of minimizing power imbalances in the electric power system by developing a model of automated control of steam turbine parameters. This will ensure high-quality regulation of frequency and power, increase the efficiency and stability of the electric power system, and provide a new management method for reliable power supply to consumers. The paper analyzes existing models and methods of power imbalance regulation, develops a dynamic model of automated control of K-300-240 steam turbines, which includes a mechanical-hydraulic system, a steam boiler and a steam superheater. As a result of the study, an improved power regulation method was proposed, which ensures efficient operation of the electric power system. The evaluation of the effectiveness of the regulation of imbalances was carried out on the basis of the proposed criterion of the efficiency of electricity supply and consumption, which is based on the convolution of partial criteria into the general criterion of the efficiency of electricity supply. The following criteria were proposed as partial criteria for electricity supply and consumption: volume criterion, quality criterion, and electricity supply efficiency criterion. The research results indicate the need for a reserve on each steam turbine in the amount of 10 % of its nominal power, which is explained by the assessment of the efficiency of electricity supply among the considered modes of operation of the systems. The presence of a power reserve on each steam turbine in the amount of 10 % of their nominal power ensures the most efficient power supply within the considered modes of operation of the power system, taking into account disturbances and as an imbalance of power generation and power consumption. The obtained research results can be applied in the strategy of primary regulation of power imbalances in the electric power system, thanks to the creation of a power reserve in the amount of 10 % of the nominal power on each steam turbine, and the organization of automated control of steam turbine parameters.

Devising a project risk management method under scrum conditions based on cognitive approach

Any project implemented using Scrum is characterized by the impact of risks, including negative changes in the environment and crisis circumstances. Therefore, the processes related to risk management, which is the object of this paper, become important. The problem solved in this study is to improve the efficiency of projects through the construction of a long-term strategy for reducing the level of risk and avoiding negative consequences for projects in the context of Scrum. The proposed method of risk management has been developed on the basis of the application of the synthesis of management of intelligent decision-making technologies and formalized methods. Difficult external circumstances are characterized by a high degree of uncertainty and do not always contribute to the successful implementation of the project. Therefore, this method of project risk management under Scrum conditions based on a cognitive approach is characterized by a combined combination of cognitive analysis, mathematical modeling, and expert methods. As part of the method, a model of project risk management under Scrum conditions has been built in the form of a fuzzy cognitive map, which could ensure determining the optimal strategic decision in dynamics, taking into account the effects of various factors. The result of applying this method is compliance with time limits, reduction of overspending of resources and losses in the project, as well as adaptation to rapidly changing circumstances and adequate response. The method of project risk management is characterized by solving the problem of formalizing management decision-making procedures and their information support, taking into account the availability of both quantitative and qualitative data. Within the framework of this method, a project risk management procedure under Scrum conditions has been proposed, which contributes to the systematization, monitoring, and control of risks under the conditions of complex, rapidly changing crisis circumstances