Specific Requirements Research Articles

Hardware Development for Plant Cultivation Allowing In Situ Fluorescence Analysis of Calcium Fluxes in Plant Roots Under Microgravity and Ground-Control Conditions.

Maintaining an optimal leaf and stem orientation to yield a maximum photosynthetic output is accomplished by terrestrial plants using sophisticated mechanisms to balance their orientation relative to the Earth's gravity vector and the direction of sunlight. Knowledge of the signal transduction chains of both gravity and light perception and how they influence each other is essential for understanding plant development on Earth and plant cultivation in space environments. However, in situ analyses of cellular signal transduction processes in weightlessness, such as live cell imaging of signaling molecules using confocal fluorescence microscopy, require an adapted experimental setup that meets the special requirements of a microgravity environment. In addition, investigations under prolonged microgravity conditions require extensive resources, are rarely accessible, and do not allow for immediate sample preparation for the actual microscopic analysis. Therefore, supply concepts are needed that ensure both the viability of the contained plants over a longer period of time and an unhindered microscopic analysis in microgravity. Here, we present a customized supply unit specifically designed to study gravity-induced Ca2+ mobilization in roots of Arabidopsis thaliana. The unit can be employed for ground-based experiments, in parabolic flights, on sounding rockets, and probably also aboard the International Space Station.

Missiology Meets Ecotheology: Creation Faith in an Intercultural Perspective

Indigenous religions around the world have brought forth functional attitudes towards their natural environment that have – until recently – proved successful. Thus, it can be assumed that a culture's creation spirituality and ethos must be rooted in a specific natural setting to be ecologically effective. The Christian creation faith with its universal truth claim, on the other hand, is globally inclusive, but tends to remain abstract, unless it is appropriately contextualised. To counter the ecological crisis, Christian principles and values need to be transferred to particular contexts to generate ecologically effective creation spiritualities, whereas indigenous beliefs ought to be adapted to meet the challenges of fast-changing environments in order to keep their relevance. This challenge reflects the general dialectic of the universality and the particularity of Christianity in the field of creation theology. The latter has not been a focus of systematic missiological considerations yet. Drawing on postcolonial theory, specifically Homi Bhabha's concept of hybridity, which enables a new perspective on syncretism, this essay attempts to outline the specific requirements of an intercultural theology of creation. Referring to case studies from Latin America and Sub-Saharan Africa presented in a series of intercontinental conferences on creation spirituality, the article will explore modes of synergetic cooperation between religious traditions. It will show how ecologically valuable Christian principles have been successfully integrated with indigenous religious beliefs in selected natural and cultural environments and point out how inculturation works both ways.

Mechanical properties of continuous glass fibre-reinforced composites made by material extrusion

This paper presents an experimental and numerical study on the mechanical properties of continuous glass fibre-reinforced composites fabricated using the material extrusion technique. Specimens with varying numbers of reinforcement layers are 3D printed using a MarkForged Mark Two printer. Both flexural and tensile tests are conducted to evaluate the performance of these specimens. In addition, a numerical modelling approach based on finite-element analysis (FEA) is developed to simulate the flexural and tensile properties of the composites. A comparison between the model predictions and experimental results reveals a reasonable agreement. The findings of this research provide valuable insights into the emerging field of continuous fibre-reinforced 3D printing technology, enabling users to design and fabricate parts that meet the specific requirements of their applications with a high level of confidence.

Stability Challenges for a Highly Efficient Perovskite/Silicon Tandem Solar Cell: A Review

As the balance of system cost of photovoltaic (PV) installations governs the competitiveness of PV device market, next‐generation solar cells desire substantially enhanced power conversion efficiencies (PCEs). The single‐junction perovskite and Si solar cells have demonstrated PCEs beyond 26% and 25%, respectively. The tandem configuration has crossed the threshold posed by the shockley queisser limit by demonstrating the 33.9% PCE. However, the unresolved issues in the perovskite community from a stability perspective pose challenges for realizing highly efficient and stable perovskite–Si tandem solar cells (TSCs). This review highlights the current status of perovskite–Si TSC from a stability perspective besides elucidating the degradation mechanisms at the perovskite–Si at the cell and module level. A highly efficient perovskite–Si TSC needs optimization keeping view the specific requirements for tandem configuration like strain, current matching, and bandgap optimization between the top perovskite and bottom Si subcell. Various stressors affecting the efficiency of the perovskite–Si module, namely, reverse bias and hot spot formation, and delamination, highlight valuable insight to develop future strategies for the perovskite–Si TSC. Stability regimes for the single‐junction perovskite solar cell can provide the essential stepping stone but, modified stability regimes are inevitable.

Point-to-Point-Based Optimization Method of Ballast Water Allocation for Revolving Floating Cranes with Experimental Verification

The Revolving Floating Crane (RFC) is a specialized engineering vessel crucial for offshore lifting operations, such as offshore platform construction and deep-water salvaging. It boasts impressive lifting capacity, good adaptability to various environmental conditions, and high operational efficiency. Conventionally, the safety and stability of RFC operations heavily depend on manual ballast water allocation, which is directly influenced by factors such as personnel status and sea conditions. These manual operations often result in reduced lifting efficiency, higher energy consumption, and compromised operational safety. In response, this paper introduces a ballast water-allocation approach based on the Point-to-Point (PTP) theory for the intelligent operation process of the RFC. The fundamental principles of the PTP theory are analyzed, and a method tailored to optimize ballast water allocation for RFC is proposed. Considering the unique characteristics of the ballast system and the specific requirements of lifting operations, an optimization model for PTP-based ballast water allocation is established. Numerical experiments are conducted to verify the efficacy and reliability of the proposed method. Comparing it to the conventional approaches, the results demonstrate a notable 17.75% reduction in energy consumption and an impressive 73.49% decrease in decision-making time, showcasing the superiority of the proposed approach. Finally, the engineering feasibility of the PTP-based optimization method for ballast water allocation is validated through actual lifting experiments, underscoring its potential to enhance RFC operations.

Comparative analysis of the quality of execution of road surfaces on newly built, reconstructed and renovated roads in the city Płock area (Poland)

Carrying out repair works, reconstruction, and construction of new road surfaces is a permanent element of urban space. The quality of the new pavement for the adopted traffic category directly impacts the road infrastructure's durability. The choice of road surface structure depends on the adopted traffic category. The aim of the article is to assess the works carried out on selected road surfaces within the city of Płock (Poland) in terms of the technical specification requirements and the durability of road infrastructure. The paper presents the tests of three road layers: base layer, binding layer and wearing course. The tests were carried out on 11 streets, and 29 samples were collected.

Solvents in the industrial synthesis of naphazoline nitrate: implementation of the principles of "Green chemistry" and analysis

The aim: implementation of the principles of green chemistry by regenerating the synthesis solvent 1,2,4-trichlorobenzene and reusing it during the synthesis of the Naphazoline nitrate substance. Study of the influence of the regenerated solvent on the quality of the final product by controlling analytical quality parameters. Development of a method for the quantitative determination and validation of synthesis solvents in a substance. Materials and methods: samples of the substance were synthesized according to the optimized proprietary technology of Farmak JSC. The obtained batches of fresh and regenerated 1,2,4-trichlorobenzene were analyzed according to the monograph of the European Pharmacopoeia on Naphazoline nitrate 0147. Results: the possibility of using regenerated 1,2,4-trichlorobenzene for the synthesis of the substance Naphazoline nitrate has been proven. It is shown that the regenerated solvent does not have a negative effect on the profile of impurities and the polymorphic form of the substance. Analytical quality parameters met the requirements of the internal specification and the requirements of the European Pharmacopoeia monograph. The developed and validated method of quantitative determination of synthesis solvents makes it possible to determine them at the required level. Conclusions: the introduction of regenerated 1,2,4-trichlorobenzene into the synthesis scheme made it possible to significantly reduce the amount of waste per 1 kg of product, which in turn significantly reduced the negative impact on the environment. Analytical quality parameters for regenerated 1,2,4-trichlorobenzene meet the requirements of the internal specification. Industrial series obtained on the regenerated solvent meet the requirements of the monograph of the European Pharmacopoeia. The polymorphic form of the substance batches manufactured on regenerated 1,2,4-trichlorobenzene corresponds to the polymorphic form of the substance batches manufactured on the fresh solvent. The obtained results on the influence of the regenerated solvent on the profile of impurities in the finished substance show the similarity of the profile of the series manufactured on both solvents. According to the requirements of ICH Q3C Impurities: Guideline for residual solvents, a method for quantitative determination of the residual content of 1,2,4-trichlorobenzene in the final product by gas chromatography was developed and validated. The absence of synthesis solvents at the limit of detection is shown

Comprehensive Survey on Disease Detection in Retinal Imaging through Deep Learning Techniques

Abstract: Millions of people around the world suffer from visual impairment and blindness that could have been prevented or diagnosed earlier. To tackle this issue, we’ve introduced a groundbreaking approach to detect multiple eye diseases using retinal imaging. Our study involves a unique combination of various advanced deep learning models through ensemble learning.We present a detailed examination of deep learning models in the context of multi-disease classification using the Retinal Fundus MultiDisease Image Dataset (RFMiD). The objective is to assess the performance of these models and identify the most effective one for accurate and reliable disease diagnosis.We begin by preprocessing the RFMiD dataset to enhance image quality and extract relevant features, ensuring a robust input for our models. Subsequently, each model undergoes a comprehensive training and finetuning process to optimize its parameters for disease classification. The evaluation metrics include accuracy, precision, recall, and F1 score, providing a comprehensive understanding of model performance.We discuss the strengths and weaknesses of each model, shedding light on factors influencing their performance. The insights gained from this comparative analysis can guide researchers and practitioners in selecting an appropriate model for retinal disease diagnosis based on specific requirements and constraints.In addition, we explore potential avenues for future research, including ensemble methods and hybrid architectures, to further improve classification accuracy. The paper includes discussion on the practical implications of our findings and their significance in advancing the field of medical image analysis, particularly in the context of retinal disease diagnosis.

User-defined weight based multi objective task scheduling in cloud using whale optimization algorithm

Cloud computing has revolutionized the IT landscape, providing scalable, on-demand computing resource. For efficiency in cloud environments, it is essential for modern organizations, where objectives often include cost reduction, resource consumption, operational efficiency and load balancing etc, to implement multi objective solutions. Single-objective systems can fail in handling dynamic and diverse workloads. This study introduces the Multi-Objective Whale Optimization-Based Scheduler (WOA-Scheduler) for efficient task scheduling in cloud computing environments. Leveraging the Whale Optimization Algorithm (WOA), the scheduler optimizes multiple objectives simultaneously, including cost, time, and load balancing. A key feature of the WOA-Scheduler is its flexibility in accommodating user-defined weights for different objectives, allowing organizations to prioritize optimization goals based on their specific requirements. Comparative analysis across various cloud environments demonstrates the superiority of the WOA-Scheduler over traditional single-objective approaches. By achieving a better balance between cost, time, and resource utilization, the scheduler enhances overall performance. Moreover, its multi-objective optimization capabilities enable dynamic adjustment of task assignments in response to changing workload conditions, ensuring efficient resource utilization and workload distribution. Overall, the WOA-Scheduler offers a customizable and adaptable solution for addressing the complexities of modern cloud services, ultimately improving performance and efficiency.

How to Build a Blogging Website

Abstract: This paper explores the variegated domain of blogging, with focusing on the platform OmniSpectra. Here, I present an in-depth explanation of website’s UI/UX design, usage, architecture, and backend mechanisms. The study explores the unique characteristics of OmniSpectra that distinguishes it from other popular blogging websites, highlighting its inventive method in nurturing inclusive and compelling virtual communities of both content consumers and content creators. The paper will show in-depth workings of different techniques such as blog recommendation, data collection and curation that are used in the website to provide a benchmark user experience. The paper investigates the website’s role in shaping individual’s narrative and perception based to users’ interactions to different blogs, this has been achieved by getting a constant sentiment analysis feedback from users as well as the content created by the creators using AI models. All in all, after reading this paper, the reader will get a high-level idea of how to create a blogging website and add to it different modules according to their specific requirements. All this is explained by taking the example of OmniSpectra

Thyristor-based Rechargeable Battery Charger

In this project, our main objective is to design an automatic battery charger using Silicon-Controlled Rectifier (SCR) and simulate their operation. Batteries play a crucial role in safely storing electricity by converting electrical energy into chemical energy. The primary focus of our project is on thyristor-based rechargeable battery chargers, known for their high quality and competitive pricing. We delve into the design and simulation of automatic battery chargers employing SCR technology. This article encompasses the simulation, implementation, and partial construction of such a charger. The electronic circuit will be tailored to meet specific charging process requirements.

Security Threats and Promising Solutions Arising from the Intersection of AI and IoT: A Study of IoMT and IoET Applications

The hype of the Internet of Things as an enabler for intelligent applications and related promise for ushering accessibility, efficiency, and quality of service is met with hindering security and data privacy concerns. It follows that such IoT systems, which are empowered by artificial intelligence, need to be investigated with cognisance of security threats and mitigation schemes that are tailored to their specific constraints and requirements. In this work, we present a comprehensive review of security threats in IoT and emerging countermeasures with a particular focus on malware and man-in-the-middle attacks. Next, we elaborate on two use cases: the Internet of Energy Things and the Internet of Medical Things. Innovative artificial intelligence methods for automating energy theft detection and stress levels are first detailed, followed by an examination of contextual security threats and privacy breach concerns. An artificial immune system is employed to mitigate the risk of malware attacks, differential privacy is proposed for data protection, and federated learning is harnessed to reduce data exposure.

Intrusion Detection System using Blockchain

Abstract: This paper investigates the integration of an Intrusion Detection System (IDS) within the context of blockchain technology. The objective is to enhance the security posture of blockchain networks by detecting and mitigating potential intrusions. Through a meticulous examination of the current threat landscape and the unique challenges posed by blockchain systems, this research proposes a robust IDS framework tailored to the specific requirements of decentralized and distributed ledger environments. The study employs [specific methodology/approach] to assess the effectiveness of the proposed IDS, presenting conclusive findings that contribute to the ongoing discourse on securing blockchain ecosystems. The implications of this research extend to bolstering the resilience of blockchain networks against emerging threat.

A Review - Factors Affecting on Time, Cost and Quality of Construction

Abstract: The primary goal of this study is to assess and explore time, cost, and quality management within the construction industry. The purpose of the study is to identify factors that impact time, cost, and quality management in construction projects. Quality stands out as a crucial aspect of all projects, and the success of construction projects hinges significantly on the performance of quality. However, accomplishing this objective is undeniably a challenging task. This study specifically investigates the factors that influence the control of cost and time in construction projects. The aim is to propose recommendations that can assist stakeholders in achieving enhanced cost and time performance in construction projects. The study acknowledges the intricate nature of balancing these key elements and strives to contribute valuable insights for improving overall project outcomes in the construction industry. This study is limited to the perspective of an appropriate sample of professionals in the construction industry. The data collection method involves the use of questionnaires and interviews, which will be subject to descriptive statistical analysis utilizing percentages, mean scores, and frequency of collected data. The primary factors influencing time, cost, and quality in a construction project were identified as planned and scheduled deficiencies, fraudulent methods, kickbacks, and the absence of clear evaluation standards. The research aims to scrutinize the factors that have both positive and adverse effects on construction projects. The study recommends that the construction team work diligently to ensure effective management of time, cost, and quality in construction projects. The objective of this study is to analyze how those involved in project teams perceive time, cost, and quality management on construction projects. Conclusions are drawn, and recommendations are made regarding time, cost, and quality management estimates for construction projects. In the construction industry, the concept of risk management is a less popular technique. There are three main stages in the systematic approach to risk management in the construction industry. A questionnaire, developed based on identified factors, was used to gather the opinions of construction experts. Quality is a critical aspect of any project, especially in construction. The success of construction projects is largely determined by the quality of work. Unfortunately, the construction industry is facing quality issues that result in ineffective and inefficient projects, leading to cost overruns, delays, and excessive rework. To address this issue, a research study was conducted to examine the factors that have positive and negative impacts on construction projects. A questionnaire was developed to gather feedback from construction experts, and statistical analysis tools such as chisquare and weighted mean method (WMM) were used to rank the significance of these factors. The definition of quality can vary depending on the perspective of those defining it. Some see it as meeting specific requirements, while others view it as delivering value for the price paid. For construction companies, quality is about satisfying customers and fulfilling their needs while staying within budget. Quality is an important factor in construction projects, as it can lead to cost overruns and delays. Quality control (QC) and quality assurance systems are established to meet specific requirements. In the construction industry, QC can be seen as achieving client satisfaction, managing costs, and allowing enough time to achieve the desired level of quality. An international standard organization (ISO) has developed a quality assurance system to improve quality and address quality-related issues. The ISO 9001 series has been created to apply to all types of organizations.

Implementation of a Lossless Moving Target Defense Mechanism

The contemporary world, dominated by information technologt (IT), necessitates sophisticated protection mechanisms against attacks that pose significant threats to individuals, companies, and governments alike. The unpredictability of human behavior, coupled with the scattered development of applications and devices, complicates supply chain maintenance, making it impossible to develop a system entirely immune to cyberattacks. Effective execution of many attack types hinges on prior network reconnaissance. Thus, hindering effective reconnaissance serves as a countermeasure to attacks. This paper introduces a solution within the moving target defense (MTD) strategies, focusing on the mutation of Internet protocol (IP) addresses in both edge and core network switches. The idea of complicating reconnaissance by continually changing IP addresses has been suggested in numerous studies. Nonetheless, previously proposed solutions have adversely impacted the quality of service (QoS) levels. Implementing these mechanisms could interrupt Transmission Control Protocol (TCP) connections and result in data losses. The IP address mutation algorithms presented in this study were designed to be fully transparent to transport layer protocols, thereby preserving the QoS for users without degradation. In this study, we leveraged the benefits of software-defined networking (SDN) and the Programming-Protocol-Ondependent Packet Processors (P4) language, which specifies packet processing methodologies in the data plane. Employing both SDN and P4 enables a dynamic customization of network device functionalities to meet network users’ specific requirements, a feat unachievable with conventional computer networks. This approach not only enhances the adaptability of network configurations but also significantly increases the efficiency and effectiveness of network management and operation.

International Law Issues Concerning Marine Environment Protection in the Arctic

International Law Issues Concerning Marine Environment Protection in the Arctic

3D printing in aerospace and defense: A review of technological breakthroughs and applications

The integration of 3D printing technology in the aerospace and defense sectors has heralded a paradigm shift in manufacturing processes, design capabilities, and operational efficiency. This review explores the transformative impact of 3D printing on these industries, focusing on breakthroughs and applications that have reshaped traditional methodologies. Technological advancements in additive manufacturing have facilitated the production of complex geometries and intricate components that were once deemed impractical or impossible. Aerospace engineers and defense manufacturers are now leveraging 3D printing to create lightweight, high-strength structures, optimizing the balance between performance and fuel efficiency. This has led to enhanced aircraft design and functionality, as well as the development of unmanned aerial vehicles with unprecedented capabilities. Moreover, the ability to rapidly prototype and iterate designs has significantly reduced the time-to-market for new aerospace and defense systems. The review delves into case studies showcasing how 3D printing has streamlined the development process, enabling quicker adaptation to evolving threats and technological advancements. In the defense sector, the customization potential of 3D printing has revolutionized the production of weapons and equipment. Tailoring components to specific mission requirements enhances the effectiveness of military operations while reducing costs associated with mass production. The review also highlights the role of 3D printing in the development of advanced sensors, communication devices, and protective gear for defense personnel. However, challenges such as material limitations, standardization, and certification processes persist. The review provides insights into ongoing research and development efforts addressing these challenges, aiming to further unlock the full potential of 3D printing in aerospace and defense. This review offers a comprehensive overview of the current state of 3D printing in aerospace and defense, emphasizing its transformative impact on manufacturing, design, and operational capabilities. As the technology continues to evolve, its integration is poised to shape the future landscape of these critical industries.

Pediatric anesthesia in Europe: Variations within uniformity.

Organization of healthcare strongly differs between European countries and results in country-specific requirements in postgraduate medical training. Within the European Union (EU), the European Board of Anaesthesiology has set recommendations of training for the Specialty of Anaesthesiology including standards for Postgraduate Medical Specialist training including a description for providing service in pediatric anesthesia. However, these standards are advisory and not mandatory. Here we aimed to review the current state and associated challenges of pediatric anesthesia training in Europe. We report an important country-specific variability both in training and regulations of practice of pediatric anesthesia in the EU and in the United Kingdom. The requirements for training in pediatric anesthesia varies between nothing specified (Belgium) or providing anesthesia with direct supervision to a minimum of 50 cases below 5 years of age (Germany) to 3-6 month clinical practice in a specialized pediatric hospital (France). Likewise, the regulations for providing anesthesia to children varies from no regulations at all (Belgium) to age specific requirements and centralization of all children below 4 years of age to specified centers (United Kingdom). Officially recognized pediatric anesthesia fellowship programs are not available in most countries of Europe. It remains unclear if and how country-specific differences in pediatric anesthesia training are associated with clinical outcomes in pediatric perioperative care. There is converging interest and support for the establishment of a European pediatric anesthesia curriculum.

4D printing of betanin/gelatin/nano-chitin complexes-functionalized surimi via disulfide bonds, and its applicability in dysphagia diets

Betanin/gelatin/nano-chitin complexes were fabricated to functionalize surimi for 4D printing based on the pH responsiveness of betanin, and the application of functionalized surimi was investigated in terms of dysphagia diets. Gelatin and nano-chitin in synergy could protect betanin against heat and UV irradiation by forming hydrogen bonds and electrostatic interactions (CIELab, DSC, XRD, FTIR and TEM). The further functionalized surimi with betanin/gelatin/nano-chitin complexes exhibited low heating loss, heat chromatic aberration, superior thermal stability and compact microstructure (TGA, and SEM). Rheological tests indicated that betanin/gelatin/nano-chitin complexes could reduce the strength of interaction and form new interaction with surimi protein and promoted the surimi to have great shearing-thinning performance, excellent strain deformation resistance, low frequency dependence and great thixotropy. The newly formed interactions were found to be disulfide bonds and hydrophobic interactions and they could further enhance suitable water distribution, and result in a fine and dense network (SDS-PAGE, chemical forces, LF-NMR and AFM). 4D printing of the functionalized surimi demonstrated the excellent color changeable merits (conforming first-order kinetic equation) and color reversibility characteristics along time, and could be also classified as potential dysphagia foods (IDDSI). Hence, surimi functionalized with betanin/gelatin/nano-chitin complexes could effectively realize innovative 4D printing, as well as expand interactive and visual experience of surimi products suitable for various specialized requirements like dysphagia diets.

Novel insights into the effect of cone structure on the classification performance of dual-cone hydrocyclones

The classification process in hydrocyclones is affected by many factors, with the cone angle being recognized as a critical parameter determining the classification performance. In the context of recycling iron ore tailings, this paper primarily focuses on the influence of cone angles and their combination sequences on the classification performance of quartz particles within a dual-cone hydrocyclone through numerical simulations. The upper and lower cone angles were configured in 16 combinations to assess their respective impacts on classification. The results indicate that the upper cone angle primarily governs the pressure drop and tangential velocity, thereby controlling the centrifugal intensity and cut sharpness. Furthermore, the lower cone angle plays a pivotal role in determining axial velocity and particle enrichment ratio in the lower cone, thus influencing the cut size and grade efficiency. These findings should provide valuable guidance for the design and application of compound cone hydrocyclones, depending on specific requirements.