Technical Aspects Research Articles

Integration of architecture and communication: a transversal learning methodology empowered by artificial intelligence tools

With the growing implementation of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the architectural field, significant challenges arise in education with ethical and social connotations. In the context of Architecture and Communication degrees, AI emerges as an essential tool, especially in the initial stages of architectural design in exploring ideas and conceptualizing projects. This article addresses the complexity inherent in using AI in architecture, highlighting its fundamental contribution to improving visual representation through textual algorithms, and analyzes the relevance of communication as a scientific discipline. In this context, communication in architecture is directed towards advertising and the effective transmission of messages. The article presents a methodology focused on detecting didactic errors among architecture and communication students, thanks to multidisciplinary collaboration. In conclusion, it is highlighted that the appropriate use of AI can boost the generation of creative ideas, allowing students to direct them and complement them in technical aspects. This study highlights the importance of effectively integrating AI into academic training, highlighting its benefits in improving creativity and precision in architectural communication.

The geography of technological innovation systems - The case of forest-based biofuels in a Swedish region

Geographical proximity exerts a substantial influence on structural evolution, developmental trajectory, and pace of sociotechnical system growth. This study explores this aspect within the context of the development of forest biomass-based biofuel technology, employing a Technological Innovation System (TIS) framework with the lens of geographical proximity utilization of system components. The research employed a combination of document analysis and interviews with key system stakeholders as data collection methods. The analysis reveals that the close geographical proximity of the system components and technologies, encompassing both technical aspects and sectors, did not result in synergetic effects, in contrast to prior TIS research findings. Rather than fostering collaboration, it has engendered a competitive dynamic, partially driven by actors vying for knowledge leads and funding from both regional and national agencies. Consequently, the potential benefits of geographical proximity of system components remain largely untapped. In light of these results, this study offers practical recommendations for exploiting untapped opportunities, advocating for more strategic use of geographical proximity to foster system technology development and enhance its role in national TIS development. This case study enriches sustainability transition literature by providing valuable insights into the role of geographical proximity in innovation processes.

Short-circuit current analysis of DC distribution system in a ship with non-electric propulsion

Converting conventional AC radial shipboard distribution system to DC system has been recognized as a potential high impact solution to reduce ship’s fuel consumption. As big ships in Indonesia commonly use low voltage AC (LVAC) distribution system an effort to apply low voltage direct current (LVDC) distribution system without replace the propulsion system is a plausible choice. However, technical and economical investigations are required before recommendation to convert the shipboard distribution system to LVDC is officially launched. In this study, technical aspect in the term of short-circuit current is discussed. The goal of this study is to analyze how much the impact on the short-circuit current when LVDC system replaces LVAC system. The impact may affect the feasibility of LVDC system as the short-circuit current in a system dictate the scheme and capacity of the protection devices. Numerical simulations on a sample vessel are performed to obtain the profile of maximum short-circuit currents on all panels. The results show that the utilization of LVDC system decreases the short-circuit current by 10 times. Further investigations on the economic aspect needs to be performed to give clearer view of the feasibility of the LVDC system.

Domestication theory in action: Indonesian Twitter corpus analysis during distance learning

This research aims at analyzing how COVID-19 discourse in the world of education unfolds in the Indonesian Twittersphere by separating public discourse in transition periods, large-scale social restrictions (PSBB), and imposition of emergency restrictions toward community activities (PPKM) and PPKM level 1 to 4. This research used qualitative approach and employed the Domestication Theory to provide a deeper understanding of how individuals integrate technology into their everyday lives. The dataset consisting of 3,196,627 tweets from two keywords and two hashtags was collected and analyzed using corpus linguistics techniques. This study found the emergence of the five main theme groups suggests that users have tried to make sense of and adapt to this new digital learning environment, while also expressing their frustrations and concerns. This highlights the importance of understanding how users domesticate technology and incorporate it into their social and cultural practices. The practical implications of this research include the need to address not only the technical aspects of online learning but also the psychological and social well-being of students, as they navigate this new learning environment.

Opportunities for Interventional Radiology in Paediatric Oncology

Interventional oncology (IO) has emerged as a pivotal field within interventional radiology (IR), gaining prominence in the past three decades. It has transcended its initial role in cancer care, expanding beyond biopsies and vascular access to offer a spectrum of percutaneous and transarterial procedures, transforming into a curative and palliative discipline. However, implementing IO in children presents distinctive challenges. While the technical aspects of IO procedures mirror those in adults, paediatric cases require specialised considerations. Radiologists must possess an in-depth understanding of the paediatric disease, tailor imaging modalities to the case, discern unique risks, and interpret disease markers specific to children. Notably, paediatric tumour biopsies demand significantly larger tissue samples for genetic sequencing, staging, and prognostication. Paediatric IO also confronts procedural disparities. Tumours in children may be larger relative to body size, necessitating precise radioembolisation dose calculations. The proximity of critical structures in small bodies amplifies the risk of collateral damage. When performing percutaneous ablation and endovascular therapies, these challenges must also be faced so that radiologists can navigate these complex clinical and technical considerations to ensure safe and effective interventions, all while prioritising the well-being of their young patients. This review summarises the current role and future opportunities for IO in paediatric cancer.

Electricity Generation Using Waste Material

Abstract: In a world grappling with increasing energy demands and environmental concerns, innovative solutions are essential. This project explores a sustainable approach to electricity production by harnessing the potential within our everyday waste. By employing advanced technologies, we transform discarded materials into valuable resource for power generation. The process involves the efficient conversion of trash into electricity, mitigating both waste management issues and contributing to a cleaner energy landscape. Our study delves into the technical aspects, environmental impact, and economic viability of this unique electricity production method. Through the synergy of waste management and energy generation, we aim to pave the way for a greener and more sustainable future.

Home Automation using Android App

Abstract: The rapid expansion of smart technology has changed many aspects of daily life, with home automation taking the lead. This study examines the creation, advancement, and deployment of a Bluetooth-based home automation system. Utilizing a microcontroller, the system enables seamless communication between household appliances and user-controlled devices. By integrating Bluetooth communication protocols, users can manage and monitor their home environment from a distance, enhancing convenience, efficiency, and energy conservation. The document delves into system architecture, hardware elements, software algorithms, and user interface design, providing insights into the technical aspects of the configuration. It also covers practical considerations such as security protocols and scalability to ensure a stable and reliable operation. Through experimental outcomes, the efficacy and usability of the proposed home automation solution are illustrated, demonstrating its potential to transform traditional houses into intelligent, interconnected ecosystems. This research contributes to the existing knowledge in home automation and serves as a valuable resource for researchers, professionals, and enthusiasts keen on exploring the capabilities of Bluetooth technology to enhance everyday living experiences.

Towards Secure and Transparent Elections: A Review of Electronic Voting Integrated with Blockchain Technology

Abstract: This paper provides an in-depth examination of the integration of blockchain technology with electronic voting (evoting) systems, aimed at ensuring the security and transparency of electoral processes. While prior research predominantly focused on the technical aspects of e-voting, recent efforts have acknowledged the intricate socio-technical dynamics at play. Drawing on conceptualizations and principles that view e-voting as complex socio-technical frameworks, this paper explores avenues for enhancing accessibility, efficiency, and integrity. Blockchain technology emerges as a transformative solution, offering cryptographic assurances to address vulnerabilities like data manipulation and centralization. Through blockchain integration, e-voting systems can uphold crucial principles such as verifiability, anonymity, fairness, and transparency, thus fostering trust in electoral procedures. The proposed systems leverage cryptographic techniques and smart contracts to protect voter anonymity, ensure data integrity, and enable end-to-end verification. Furthermore, the paper advocates for decentralized architectures to mitigate risks associated with centralized databases. By emphasizing the pivotal role of blockchain technology, this paper contributes to the advancement of e-voting systems towards secure and transparent elections.

Enhancement of L. Voleti LSB technique applied to Image Steganography

In today’s world, the progress of communication technology plays a role in our everyday lives. The internet and the conversion of data into forms have significantly expanded the sharing of information leading to fast-paced growth. Despite having secure methods available, safeguarding data remains a top priority. This study aims to improve the security and durability of data transmission by combining steganography and cryptography techniques. Steganography, which involves hiding messages within another medium, and cryptography which entails encrypting messages using keys are both effective ways to ensure data security. The research delves into combinations of algorithms that integrate steganography and cryptography examining their impact on enhancing security. It categorizes methods based on technical and non-technical aspects as well as their domains. Moreover, it underscores the importance of data security in media formats such as images, videos, and audio. In analyzing message lengths noticeable character patterns were observed in both Vigenère Cipher and Elliptic Curve Cryptography. In short messages "s" was prominent in the Vigenère Cipher accounting for 26.3% of occurrences while Elliptic Curve Cryptography showed a prevalence of "t" at 3.9%. Medium-length messages continued to show the dominance of "s" in the Vigenère Cipher at 22.5% while Elliptic Curve Cryptography highlighted "p" as a character at 4.3%. Lastly, longer messages maintained the prevalence of "s" in the Vigenère Cipher at 24.3% with "v" emerging as dominant in Elliptic Curve Cryptography at 3.9%. These findings show that combining steganography and cryptography methods can greatly enhance the protection of multimedia data.

Option of last resort or pragmatic solution? Social perspectives on onsite wastewater treatment systems in northern Argentina

ABSTRACT The unplanned and rapid expansion of metropolitan areas reduces accessibility to existing and often outdated centralized water and wastewater systems. In this context, sanitation policies that focus exclusively on centralized systems become expensive and unfeasible. Using Q methodology, we identified three different social perspectives on onsite wastewater treatment systems (OWTS) in the metropolitan area of the Lerma Valley in northern Argentina. We focused our analysis on the legal, environmental, and technical aspects of onsite sanitation. The perspectives found were: ‘OWTS have advantages’, ‘Hard path for sewerage’, and ‘Process before technology’. We describe the perspectives identified and we provide an analysis of their differences and similarities to discuss their possible policy implications for our study area and comparable regions in the country and beyond.

Use of an Absorption Heat Pump to Lift the District Cooling Waste Heat Temperature for the District Heating Supply in Tallinn: a Technical and Economic Analysis

Absorption heat pumps can lift a lower temperature waste heat source to a higher temperature useful output. In that process, it uses less electricity as an input compared to heat pumps with electrical compressors. Therefore, in some cases, it can be used to lift a lower temperature waste heat source to a higher temperature useful output with less electricity consumption. Absorption heat pumps are not very widely spread in district heating, mostly because there aren’t many suitable waste heat sources or conditions needed to run them. Tallinn has a district heating system with an annual generation of more than 2 TWh and a goal to make it an entirely carbon neutral district heating system by 2030. Tallinn has also started to develop a district cooling network, and by the end of 2023, the installed capacity was about 6 MW. District cooling capacity is estimated to grow to around 100 MW in 2030. This paper investigates different types of absorption heat pumps and the possibilities of integrating an absorption heat pump to a district cooling plant with the purpose of using waste heat from the cooling plant for renewable heat generation, that can be used in district heating. Different technical aspects are examined to find a suitable production solution, are presented as results. From an economical point of view, the cost of heat to cover peaks with an absorption heat pump is calculated. The effect of reducing fossil fuel use in the Tallinn district heating network with an absorption heat pump is estimated.

Main Principles and Solutions for Acceleration of Energy Efficient Renovation in Latvia

The European Renovation Wave aims to at least double the annual energy renovation rate by 2030, especially promoting deep renovation. In order to achieve this goal, EU member states need to overcome the existing obstacles in the whole chain of the building renovation process by using certain policy measures and finance instruments. According to the Ministry of Economics of Latvia, the current necessity is to renovate around 26 thousand multi-apartment buildings. Therefore, not only the problem of the lack of additional financing should be solved but also the pace of implementation should be significantly increased. This study starts with an overview of the main obstacles of the building renovation in Latvia and gives an insight into the main challenges in the achievement of the goal. The study includes the review of existing support programmes and financing schemes, designed to improve the energy efficiency of multi-apartment buildings in Latvia. Moreover, the study analyses the existing support mechanisms in Latvia, and reviews different policy measures for regulatory requirements, fiscal and economic incentives and information campaigns in Europe. In addition, the study proposes an assessment of the availability of financial support for the low-income households, and analyses energy poverty solving tools. As a result, the study defines basic principles and examines the solutions for energy efficient renovation in Latvia – including tax incentives, regulatory framework, development of financial schemes and models for acceleration of building renovation. The solutions have been evaluated considering country specific economic, technical, and social aspects, and defined as a set of recommendations for decision makers.

Brine Valorisation Using Mechanical Vapor Compression Desalination: Approaches to Consider.

Water scarcity is one of the biggest challenges we are facing due to climate change: lack of rainfall and polluted water sources are an increasing reality worldwide. Sustainable Development Goals reinforce the urgency of dealing with this issue, targeting scientific community’s efforts towards solutions for this trending topic, where desalination of seawater is one of the main proposals. However, concerns regarding to the environmental effects of residual brines, generated in the desalination process, are emerging on the spots where this technology has been applied.To contribute to the implementation of desalination technologies, the valorisation of these residual brines brings the opportunity not only to reduce the volume of wastewater generated, but increasing its final concentrations and producing more freshwater from a residue. Nevertheless, it comes with the cost of higher energy demands than in the previous stage: the higher the concentration of the fluid, the higher its energy consumption. We can approach this challenge from two different perspectives, focusing on the final amount of concentrated residue or focusing on the energy demand of the installation.While focusing on reducing the volume of residue to its minimum expression is the most attractive option for concentrating the dissolved salts, it comes with the cost of excessive energy demands. On the other hand, focusing on reducing the power consumption of the installation allows the usage of variable renewables, in a more efficient way, allowing the carbon neutrality of emissions during its operation but obtaining a lower concentrated residue. By using a computational model of the installation, we can replicate its operation and compare results from both perspectives.In this paper we will use two scenarios with fixed conditions for a basic mechanical vapor compression (MVC) desalination plant modelled in TRNSYS, where we can observe the correlations between the final volume of residual brine and the energy consumption required for achieving those results. One of the scenarios will show the biggest final concentration, while the other one will consider the minimum operating conditions for the desalination plant. Apart from those results, there will be an analysis of environmental and economic advantages that can be achieved by the implementation of this technology, as well as an early approach towards the technical aspects involving the development of the model used for these calculations.

A Comprehensive Case Report on the Fabrication and Rehabilitation with Customized Eye Prosthesis

ABSTRACT This case report presents the clinical and technical aspects of fabricating and rehabilitating a patient with a custom-designed ocular prosthesis following enucleation due to ocular malignancy. The report details the patient’s history, clinical examination, and the step-by-step process of prosthesis fabrication. The aim is to highlight the importance of a multi-disciplinary approach involving ophthalmologists and maxillofacial prosthodontists in providing optimal esthetic and functional outcomes for patients with ocular defects.

Review of ISO 45001:2018 Implementation as Prevention Effort from Fire Occurred in PT Pertamina (Persero) Refinery Unit VI Balongan

Abstract PT Pertamina Refinery Unit VI Balongan has made a significant contribution in providing good income for PT Pertamina and the state. A large number of petroleum processing products produced daily cause a high risk of fire. Fires and explosions at oil refineries are still common even though major oil companies have occupational safety and health systems in place. Monitoring errors and the absence of re-evaluation of established companies for a long time are the reasons why this can happen. This research uses a descriptive approach through literature studies to collect data and obtain the necessary information by studying various journals, conference proceedings, books, and written references. The results of the research were obtained by PT Pertamina Refinery Unit VI Balongan, which applies several rules regarding work safety from ISO 45001: 2018 based on technical and non-technical aspects. In the technical aspect, the rules include the installation of warning signs and signs, noise, temperature, lighting intensity and personal safety equipment. Meanwhile, the regulations include administration and licensing as Safe Work Permits in non-technical aspects. However, based on several parameters of the application of ISO 45001: 2018, aspects that do not meet the standards are found and can be a problem, resulting in the potential for fire. This study concluded that PT Pertamina Refinery Unit VI Balongan must be able to provide firmness in implementing work safety rules or procedures for its employees.

Current Management of Acute Severe Ulcerative Colitis: New Insights on the Surgical Approaches

Acute severe ulcerative colitis (ASUC) is a life-threatening medical emergency with considerable morbidity. Despite recent advances in medical IBD therapy, colectomy rates for ASUC remain high. A scoping review of published articles on ASUC was performed. We collected data, such as general information of the disease, diagnosis and initial assessment, and available medical and surgical treatments focusing on technical aspects of surgical approaches. The most relevant articles were considered in this scoping review. The management of ASUC is challenging; currently, personalized treatment for it is unavailable. Sequential medical therapy should be administrated, preferably in high-volume IBD centers with close patient monitoring and indication for surgery in those cases with persistent symptoms despite medical treatment, complications, and clinical worsening. A total colectomy with end ileostomy is typically performed in the acute setting. Managing rectal stump is challenging, and all individual and technical aspects should be considered. Conversely, when performing elective colectomy for ASUC, a staged surgical procedure is usually preferred, thus optimizing the patients’ status preoperatively and minimizing postoperative complications. The minimally invasive approach should be selected whenever technically feasible. Robotic versus laparoscopic ileal pouch–anal anastomosis (IPAA) has shown similar outcomes in terms of safety and postoperative morbidity. The transanal approach to ileal pouch–anal anastomosis (Ta-IPAA) is a recent technique for creating an ileal pouch–anal anastomosis via a transanal route. Early experiences suggest comparable short- and medium-term functional results of the transanal technique to those of traditional approaches. However, there is a need for additional comparative outcomes data and a better understanding of the ideal training and implementation pathways for this procedure. This manuscript predominantly explores the surgical treatment of ASUC. Additionally, it provides an overview of currently available medical treatment options that the surgeon should reasonably consider in a multidisciplinary setting.

Infection of Transcatheter Valvular Devices.

This review explores the epidemiology, clinical traits, and diagnosis of Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement-Associated Infective Endocarditis (TAVR-IE) and mitral transcatheter edge-to-edge repair infective endocarditis (TEER-IE), focusing on a multimodal imaging approach. It addresses the rising prevalence of TAVR and TEER, emphasizing the need to understand long-term complications and clinical consequences, which poses significant challenges despite advancements in valve technology. Studies report a variable incidence of TAVR-IE and TEER-IE influenced by diverse patient risk profiles and procedural factors. Younger age, male gender, and certain comorbidities emerge as patient-related risk factors. Procedure-related factors include intervention location, valve type, and technical aspects. Microbiologically, Staphylococcus aureus, Viridans Group Streptococcus, and Enterococcus are frequently encountered pathogens. TAVR-IE and TEER-IE diagnosis involves a multimodal imaging approach due to limitations in echocardiography. Blood cultures and imaging aid identification, with Fluorescence in situ hybridization is showing promise. Treatment encompasses medical management with antibiotics and, when necessary, surgical intervention. The management approach requires a multidisciplinary "Endocarditis Team." This review underscores the need for continued research to refine risk prediction, enhance diagnostic accuracy, and optimize management strategies for TAVR-IE, considering the evolving landscape of transcatheter interventions.

Technical Aspects and Outcome of Multi-Staged and Single-Staged Thoracoabdominal Fenestrated Endovascular Aortic Repair.

In some cases of endovascular thoracoabdominal or juxtarenal aortic aneurysm repair, a thoracic endograft in combination with a fenestrated renovisceral device may be needed in order to create a sufficient proximal landing zone. This study aimed to evaluate the technical aspects and postoperative morbidity of a single- or 2-stage approach. Eighty-seven consecutive patients undergoing thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR) in combination with elective fenestrated repair (fenestrated endovascular aortic repair [FEVAR]; fenestrated Anaconda device) from 2015 to 2022 were included in this retrospective bicentric study. Underlying pathologies, aortic morphology, technical details, and postoperative morbidity were recorded. Single-staged ("1S," n=61) and 2-staged ("2S," n=26) interventions were compared. Indications were thoracoabdominal aneurysms (TAAAs) (Crawford I-IV) (n=56, 64%) and juxtarenal aneurysms (n=31, 36%). In 2S, the proportion of TAAA was higher than in 1S (2S: 77%, 1S: 59%; p=0.001). In 2S, the covered length of the descending aorta was longer (1S: 128±60 mm, 2S: 202±64 mm; p=0.003). Temporary aneurysm sack perfusion (TASP) was established in 11 (18%) of 1S and 1 (4%) of 2S patients (p=0.079), as well as cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) drainage catheter in 48 (79%) of 1S and 19 (73%) of 2S. The rate of spinal cord ischemia (SCI) and the severity of SCI were not different in both groups, with a total of 3 cases of persisting paraplegia. The rate of access complications was higher in 2S (n=6, 23%) than in 1S (n=4, 7%; p=0.027). Postoperative 30 day morbidity did not significantly differ in both groups and neither did 30 day mortality (4.6% in 1S vs 3.8% in 2S; p=0.083). The combination of TEVAR and FEVAR using a fenestrated endograft is feasible and safe. Aortic morphology does not change significantly after endovascular repair. A single-staged strategy is feasible with excellent results, especially in Crawford IV, Crawford V, or juxtarenal aneurysms. Two-staged repair is recommended in cases with long aortic coverage and a higher American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) class. Follow-up data are needed to evaluate the long-term stability of the TEVAR/FEVAR interconnection. Our study has revealed the safety and efficacy of the combination of TEVAR and FEVAR in the treatment of TAAAs and juxtarenal aneurysms with compromised supravisceral landing zones. A single-staged concept is not necessary in all cases. Staged procedures may reduce postoperative morbidity in cases with long aortic coverage and higher ASA class.

Valorization of waste glycerol into value-added dihydroxyacetone via microbial fermentation: feasibility study

AbstractThe waste glycerol generated during biodiesel production can be converted into a value-added product like dihydroxyacetone (DHA). DHA is widely applied in the cosmetic industry as a color additive in sunless tanning products. There is a market demand for DHA as the revenue for sunless tanning products is growing. Study on reviewing the viability of an industry-scaled DHA production plant is scarce. Therefore, it is the aim of this study to examine and evaluate the feasibility of the DHA production plant in terms of technical, economical, and safety aspects. In this present study, the DHA is synthesized from glycerol via microbial fermentation using Gluconobacter oxydans. The production process is designed and simulated using Aspen Plus software. Preliminary process hazards and safety reviews are conducted using HAZOP and process material risk assessment. Techno-economic and sensitivity analyses are also performed. The simulation results indicate that with 6266 tons of crude glycerol, 3871 tons of DHA can be generated annually. The DHA production from crude glycerol is found to be technically and economically viable. The DHA plant is able to retain profitability at ± 25% fluctuation of the DHA selling price, with a payback period of less than 5 years. The findings from this work provide insight into the feasibility of the valorization of waste crude glycerol from biodiesel synthesis into DHA. Graphical abstract

The Application of the Total Ergonomics (SHIP) Method in Science and Technology for the Regional Development (PIPK): Case Study at Munduk Village, Bali

Empowerment is a fundamental effort aimed at enhancing community capabilities and fostering greater participation in decision-making processes related to uplifting living standards. For example, Munduk is one of the tourist villages in Bali with several challenges such as the lack of appropriate tourist attraction areas to be used as an economic center and low productivity from community work. The problems have led to less optimal competitiveness in providing original income for community in the village. Therefore, community empowerment method was required to manage the potential of the village as a conservation, agricultural, coffee, and clove processing area and also tourism destination. This led to the implementation of SHIP (systemic, holistic, interdisciplinary, and participatory) ergonomics method to promote active participation of all parties in identifying problems to be fixed and determining the appropriate technology to be used. The process focused on a thorough analysis of the technology based on six criteria, including technical, economical, ergonomics, socio-cultural, energy efficiency, and environmental friendliness aspects. The method was used to provide a conducive working mechanism and quality products in accordance with the demands of the times. Moreover, ergonomics method implemented with the participation of all parties led to an increase in knowledge and understanding of community entrepreneurship by 25.3%, clove post-harvest processing productivity 22.7%, and tourist visits 5.6%.