bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Transfer of Industry 4.0 to Small and Medium Sized Enterprises
Authors: Rauch Erwin  , Matt Dominik T.  , Brown Christopher A.  , Towner Walter  , Vickery Andrew  , Santiteerakul Salinee
Published: February 2025

Industry 4.0 refers to the fourth industrial revolution and technological evolution from embedded systems to cyber-physical production systems. A great challenge for the future lies in the transfer of Industry 4.0 concepts and technologies to small and medium sized enterprises. Despite the expected strong potential of Industry 4.0 in small and medium sized firms, fundamental models for its introduction and application are missing. The research project titled ‘SME 4.0 – Industry 4.0 for SMEs’ aims to close and overcome this gap through the creation of an international and interdisciplinary research network working on this topic.
Architectural Knowledge Integration in a Social Innovation Context
Authors: Mo John P.T.  , Beckett Ronald C.
Published: February 2025

In an earlier study we had noted that the term transdisciplinary is used in describing a number of different situations, but always implied some form of knowledge-sharing collaboration. Researchers have observed that the requisite knowledge lies both within a development team and outside of it, but how it all works in harmony may vary from case to case. In this paper we explore the utility of a system architecture description standard, ISO 42010 as a framework for representing architectiral knowledge in a consistent way. This is illustrated in a social innovation case study. The case also illustrates how knowledge from social, medical and physical sciences was combined at multiple levels within a telemedicine delivery system.
National R&D Project Evaluation and Key Performance Indicator Reengineering
Authors: Trappey C.V.  , Trappey A.J.C.  , Lin B.H.-L.  , Lin S.C.-C.  , Chen P.P.-J.
Published: February 2025

Taiwan industries are largely divided among Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEM) and Original Design Manufacturers (ODM). In order to improving economic development, Taiwan industries hope to shift their business models towards enhancing global brand equity, i.e., transforming their companies into Original Brand Manufacturers (OBM). Increasing competitiveness and successfully pursuing sustainable businesses requires government funding agencies for industrial development to monitor the performances of companies, receiving government funding, with a set of carefully designed Key Performance Indicators (KPIs). This research develops a set of improved KPIs for repositioning enterprises that enhance their competitiveness across the aspects of OEM, ODM and OBM. The research evaluates the validity of currently used industry performance indicators and measurement methods. Case companies from both manufacturing and service industries including precision machinery, chip design and manufacturing. The questionnaire results are analyzed and the suggestions are made to help enterprises improve their project performance and corporate transformation.
Establishing Guidelines to Improve the High-Pressure Die Casting Process of Complex Aesthetics Parts
Authors: Silva F.J.G.  , Campilho Raul D.S.G.  , Ferreira Luís Pinto  , Pereira Maria Teresa
Published: February 2025

Zamak is a light-weight alloy presenting very good properties for parts not requiring high mechanical strength. Due to its low melting temperature, this alloy is perfectly suitable for complex shape parts because it is easily moulded by high-pressure die casting process. Industrial parts usually do not require perfect look but this alloy can be also suitable for aesthetic parts, requiring complex finishing processes.The challenge embraced by this work aims to optimize the injection parameters and mould configuration of a Zamak alloy aesthetic part, to be obtained through a single injected casting operation, minimizing finishing operations. In order to obtain healthy, defect-free Zamak parts with a good aesthetic appearance, it was necessary to study the problem and then try to find the best possible solution. Thus, a study was carried out about the high-pressure die casting process and corresponding parameters. Throughout the work, and in order to solve the problem, numerical simulations were carried out using the SolidCast™ software, studying the material flow into the mould and corresponding fusion lines, and empirical tests were carried out in order to correlate the results with the parameters. Changes in the mould were also performed. After the experiences, it was possible to draw some guidelines in order to achieve better results in the Zamak high-pressure die casting process of complex aesthetic parts, allowing for save time in next approaches.
Approach for Preventive Maintenance Planning of Machine Tools
Authors: Pires C.R.  , Lopes I.S.  , Basto L.P.
Published: February 2025

This paper addresses a common problem to manufacturing companies: the maintenance of machine tools and their components. Preventive maintenance has always been a great challenge for companies, due to the need of predicting failures or production shutdowns, which requires knowledge and resources. However, the planning of machine tools maintenance presents itself as an even more complex problem due to the distinct lifetimes of their components. Age-based preventive replacement and Block replacement models define optimal replacement intervals for one item based on associated maintenance costs. A machine tool can be seen as a serial system of components or items. The concepts of group technology and clustering can be used to group components together in order to define common preventive maintenance intervals and reduce the number of production stops. In the literature, some contributions are found. However, the defined groups are static as well as the preventive maintenance intervals. This paper presents a conceptual model for the definition of dynamic clusters and intervals. It also presents an application to record the inputs, data collected in real time, needed to group components and set up preventive maintenance intervals. The developed application is being implemented in a metalworking company.
Variation Sensitivity Study for an Aerospace Wing Spar Assembly
Authors: McKenna Vincent  , Jin Yan  , Murphy Adrian  , Morgan Michael  , Fu Rao  , McClory Caroline  , Higgins Colm  , Collins Rory  , Qin Xuda
Published: February 2025

Despite manufacturing sub-components to a high precision, large over-constrained assemblies are often impossible to assemble to tolerance limits when variations are present. This necessitates expensive and time consuming variation management processes at assembly, such as shimming. Existing research has not established a methodology to model the variation propagation mechanisms that results in this assembly variation. This paper presents such a methodology, which has the ability to quantify the assembly variation of over-constrained assemblies at the planning stage, providing useful data for determining the most appropriate combination of fabrication and assembly processes to use for a given case. The methodology is validated using an aerospace wing spar assembly, and a sensitivity study completed to rank the key variation drivers in the over-constrained assembly.
Improving Product Design Through Knowledge Management in Aerospace Manufacturing Lifecycle
Authors: El Souri Mohammed  , Gao James  , Owodunni Oladele  , Simmonds Clive  , Martin Nick
Published: February 2025

Product design in the aerospace manufacturing lifecycle requires the management of micro and macro levels of information streams within the product lifecycle management (PLM) systems. However, PLM information streams require access to data often overwhelmingly large and complex and need organising to make the best of it toward improving product design specifications. In order to make a direct connection between the information relayed from the manufacturing processes (such as in the event of defects) and any subsequent relevant knowledge, knowledge management approach is applied through the approaches related to data, information and knowledge structuring in order to be used to improve the product design specifications and ultimately reduce defects. This project investigates the use of various data from PLM systems within a large UK based aerospace manufacturing company BAE Systems, Electronic Systems, in order to connect the information streams related to manufacturing defects to product design activities towards a better facilitation of Design for Manufacturing (DFM) for the use of design engineers. The approach is further evaluated and developed into a working ICT tool at the collaborating company using case studies on real components used within their facility.
Design and Development of a Mug Using Electric Heating Through Rechargeable Batteries
Authors: Manarvi Irfan Anjum  , Alsaab Abdullah  , Almehrj Muhannd
Published: February 2025

Life of a professional in any part of the word is getting busier every day. It leads to taking food and drinks on the go by these people whether its breakfast or even dinner time. The hot drinks normally get cold and the person is unable to enjoy these. In the market electric heater do exist but either they are not portable to the size of a Mug or these may limitations of heating of a power source availability. Therefore a research was conducted to develop a unique Mug for hot drinks that may carry rechargeable batteries. Therefore it could be used at home, office or in the car. The techniques usually covered in a typical product design and development course at undergraduate level were reviewed and applied throughout the process of this product design. Business opportunities likely to be created, customer needs, concept design, selection and development processes were adopted to arrive at the final product. It was observed that if learners are provided an opportunity to explore customer needs for a specific product they could get a hands on learning experience and come up with innovative ideas to satisfy the need through applying their theoretical knowledge.
Accessing Your Navigation Plans! Human-Robot Intention Transfer Using Eye-Tracking Glasses
Authors: Chadalavada Ravi Teja  , Andreasson Henrik  , Schindler Maike  , Palm Rainer  , Lilienthal Achim J.
Published: February 2025

Robots in human co-habited environments need human-aware task and motion planning, ideally responding to people's motion intentions as soon as they can be inferred from human cues. Eye gaze can convey information about intentions beyond trajectory and head pose of a person. Hence, we propose eye-tracking glasses as safety equipment in industrial environments shared by humans and robots. This paper investigates the possibility of human-to-robot implicit intention transference solely from eye gaze data. We present experiments in which humans wearing eye-tracking glasses encountered a small forklift truck under various conditions. We evaluate how the observed eye gaze patterns of the participants related to their navigation decisions. Our analysis shows that people primarily gazed on that side of the robot they ultimately decided to pass by. We discuss implications of these results and relate to a control approach that uses human eye gaze for early obstacle avoidance.
A Framework for Technology Selection to Support Sales and Operations Planning in German Medical Technology Organisations
Authors: Garcia-Villarreal Enrique  , Bhamra Ran  , Schoenheit Martin
Published: February 2025

Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) of the medical technology sector in Germany are being challenged with competition from low-wage countries developing, manufacturing, and distributing high-quality products on a global scale. Considering the importance of Sales and Operations Planning (S&OP) in these organisations, the current trend of Smart Manufacturing (Industry 4.0) in Germany, and the dearth of empirical research on both medical technology supply chains and technology-selection processes, this paper presents the outcomes of a study using action research (AR) to develop and practically test a technology-selection framework to support S&OP from both intra-organisational and inter-organisational perspectives. This framework takes into account both OEM and supply chain considerations and proposes an evaluation and design method for the selection of appropriate tools to support S&OP. Additionally, the close cooperation with the case study organisation provided insights into daily operational issues of the members of the supply chain under study.
Co-Simulation Architecture Between a Digital Twin and a Virtual Reality Environment in an Industrial Context
Authors: Lacomblez Marc  , Jeanne Benoit  , Havard Vincent  , Baudry David
Published: February 2025

In the context of Industry 4.0 and digital factory, digital twin and virtual reality represent technologies that can deal with several industrial issues like design, simulation and optimisation of industrial systems. They are helpful to develop collaboration, innovation or training.
Automated Process Planning for Turning: A Feature-Free Approach
Authors: Behandish Morad  , Nelaturi Saigopal  , Allard Mats
Published: February 2025

Turning is the most commonly available and least expensive machining operation, in terms of both machine-hour rates and tool insert prices. A practical CNC process planner has to maximize the utilization of turning, not only to attain precision requirements for turnable surfaces, but also to minimize the machining cost, while non-turnable features can be left for other processes such as milling. Most existing methods rely on separation of surface features and lack guarantees when analyzing complex parts with interacting features. In a previous study, we demonstrated successful implementation of a feature-free milling process planner based on configuration space methods used for spatial reasoning and AI search for planning. This paper extends the feature-free method to include turning process planning. It opens up the opportunity for seamless integration of turning actions into a mill-turn process planner that can handle arbitrarily complex shapes with or without a priori knowledge of feature semantics.
Deposition of Carbon on the Surface of OHNS Die Steel by Electrical Discharge Machining Process
Authors: Kumar Sanjeev
Published: February 2025

Although Electrical Discharge Machining (EDM) is essentially a material removal process, it has been possible to use this technique for surface alloying of the work materials. Traces of additive powders in the dielectric medium have been found in the machined surface. Conductive powders in the dielectric affect the surface finish and micro-hardness. Experimental investigations were carried out for improving the surface properties of Oil-Hardening Non-Shrinkable die steel by graphite tool electrode and by graphite powder mixed in the dielectric. Results show increase in the percentage of carbon in the machined surface from 0.82% to 1.16% by graphite electrode and from 0.82% to 4.11% by graphite powder. SEM micrograph shows smooth surfaces devoid of any craters and nodules of free graphite. Increase in micro-hardness of the machined surfaces is 12.6% and 22.5% respectively. It can be concluded that it is possible to deposit carbon by this method of machining.
The Need for Public-Private Information Sharing in Cybersecurity
Authors: Brill Alan
Published: February 2025

This paper begins by tracing the itemization and sharing of threat information to ancient times. It then demonstrates how cybersecurity cannot be adequately addressed only by technology people and cannot be ignored because it is the core of warfare in the twenty-first century, renders the fog of war even foggier, and it is difficult to create “cyber borders.” The article also argues that cyber risk has greatly increased due to the Internet of Things (IoT), lack of sufficient security in new defense devices, and hackers. Recommendations are presented for developing a more robust cybersecurity architecture at the national and international levels which include various ways of sharing public-private information in this domain and incorporating a multitude of fields.
South East European Border Security Coordination Issues: Case Study of Migration in Serbia
Authors: Ivanović Zvonimir
Published: February 2025

State-run agencies are responsible for dealing with migration of any kind. However, the current wave of migrants into Europe transiting through the Balkan peninsula is not only considered an issue of national interest, but also one of wider European security. This paper discusses how the land-locked transit area of the Republic of Serbia has addressed the complex of issues involved with this recent migration. It examines the laws and acts that have been developed, the role of crime, human rights issues as well as functional complications for the military and police. Implications for broader defense and military aspects of border security in Europe are highlighted throughout.
Understanding the Information Environment: Command and Control, Trends, and Cooperation
Authors: Lochard Itamara V.
Published: February 2025

This paper explores the challenges of attaining Command and Control (C2), required for success in military, defense, and humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HA/DR) operations in current information environment (IE). It presents definitions of C2 and IE followed by a summary of Information age-trends that impact these operations. It then surveys some IE technological tools and how they have been exploited by adversaries. An examination of how the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) has evolved to adapt its C2 architecture to varying crises ensues. Policy recommendations include: 1) adjustments to existing C2 architectures; 2) harnessing the role of transnational corporations; 3) recognizing a new theoretical paradigm wherein all actors can collaborate, compete, and conflict simultaneously on different topics; 4) developing networks, despite different security priorities; 5) developing a networked, interdisciplinary, information threat sharing center; 6) advocating digital fluency, digital literacy, cyber hygiene, and IE-awareness; 7) encouraging definitions and thresholds at national, regional, and NATO levels; 8) utilizing social network analysis cautiously to prevent data biases; 9) encouraging training and exercising at local, national, and international levels; and 10) applying other national and regional solutions.
Information Operations in the Western Balkans
Authors: Cappello John T.  , Sunter Daniel
Published: February 2025

The Kremlin's information operations in Europe have achieved some of their most significant successes in the Western Balkans in areas populated by Orthodox Slavs. The Western Balkans information environment is highly challenging and vulnerable to outside influences. The Russian disinformation campaign in the region has succeeded in penetrating the mainstream media and influencing regional audiences. The pro-Russian narrative dominates across regional print and online media. In Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro and Macedonia, Russian news outlets, fake news portals, and pro-Russian tabloids are increasingly filling the vacuum created by deficient local media capacity. The primary result has been an increasing negative trend in public perceptions of the U.S. and NATO. Declining public support for EU integration and negative perceptions of the West are counter-imposed with positive images of Russia. Combined with the influence of various political, economic and historic factors the Kremlin's tactics are able to widen the gulf by exploiting doubt and introducing disruption. Moscow's goal is to disrupt the integration of the Balkan states into Euro-Atlantic institutions by upsetting regional cooperation; amplifying threat perceptions among the Serb and Orthodox Slav population; reinforcing pre-existing anti-NATO sentiments, myths and grievances related to Western military intervention in the 1990s; and advertising Russian military might with anti-Western and nationalistic rhetoric. Beating state sponsored disinformation campaigns requires both excellent journalism and educated consumers who seek a quality product. It also requires public institutions willing to fight disinformation openly and necessitates funding journalism in places where propaganda predominates. Solely responding to disinformation campaigns is not enough. Because information spreads through the internet at such a rapid pace, a campaign that is purely responsive is not sufficient. Within this challenging environment there are opportunities to shift the dynamics through the application of innovative, pre-emptive solutions that provide for the flow of credible information.
An Overview of Women's Roles in Preventing and Countering Violent Extremism (P/CVE)
Authors: Zeiger Sara  , Alonso Rogelio
Published: February 2025

This chapter introduces the topic: the intersection between the UN Security Council Resolution (UNSCR) 1325 regarding women, peace and security and countering violent extremism (CVE). The chapter also summarizes the contents of a workshop on “Enhancing Women's Roles in Preventing and Countering Violent Extremism” that was hosted by Hedayah and Fundación para el Análisis y los Estudios Sociales (the Foundation for the Analysis and Social Studies, FAES) in March 2018 in Madrid, Spain. The workshop aimed to develop a further research base for incorporating a gender lens into peace and security efforts, with the perspective of looking across the full spectrum of counter-terrorism, to include prevention.
Roles of Women in Preventing and Countering Violent Extremism (P/CVE) in Tunisia
Authors: Feki Neila
Published: February 2025

This essay provides a case study for the roles that women play in preventing and countering violent extremism, drawing from the Tunisian context. It begins with a review of the legal and institutional frameworks related to women in preventing and countering violent extremism (P/CVE) in Tunisia. It also summarizes the role of women in the National Strategy to Counter Extremism and Terrorism as outlined through strategic objective 4. It concludes with some recommendations for the implementation of these legal, institutional and strategic objectives moving forward.
International and National Frameworks for Women, Peace and Security (WPS) in Spain: Beyond Words
Authors: Palacián De Inza Blanca
Published: February 2025

With reference to UN Security Council Resolution 1325 on women, peace and security (WPS), this essay examines a Bilateral Spanish-Dutch Initiative for Gender Training in International Operations and Missions. The initiative intends to raise awareness of gendered approaches to security. The essay also reviews how this initiative fits within the framework of the Spanish National Action Plan (NAP) for WPS and explains how the implementation of the training program may contribute to better operational effectiveness.
The Roles of Women in South Asian Salafi Organizations
Authors: Borreguero Eva
Published: February 2025

The paper first provides an overview of the role women play in three Salafi organizations in South Asia. It identifies two main typologies in their activism, labeled as “subsidiary leadership” and “deferential activism.” It then proceeds to describe how women join Salafi organizations, how some of them engage in a process of radicalization and what are the differences with similar processes in males.
International and National Frameworks for Women, Peace and Security (WPS)
Authors: Zeiger Sara
Published: February 2025

Since the adoption of the UN Security Council Resolution 1325, there have been a number of frameworks, policies, initiatives and programs that have focused on addressing women, peace and security issues. This essay looks at the international context of WPS in the framework of how the implementation of 1325 relates to Countering Violent Extremism (CVE). In addition, this essay gives an overview of the National Action Plans of 29 countries and evaluates them in comparison with two key indicators: the Global Gender Gap Index and the Global Women, Peace & Security Index. Finally, this essay concludes with three case studies of the National Action Plans and indicates areas of overlap with relevant efforts for better inclusion of women in CVE.
Stabilocracy. Unexpected Result of Security Agendas in the Western Balkans
Authors: Frckoski Ljubomir Danailov
Published: February 2025

The article analyses the process of authoritarian populism building, which is the unexpected result in most Western Balkan countries. The obsession with stability has led to lose sight of the rule of law and liberal democratic standards as basic criteria for enlargement, too often relegating them to mere rhetoric. This trend stems partly from double standards applied in the region by some European Union bureaucracies and decision makers in the process of integration of Western Balkan's countries to the EU and NATO. Future outcomes are uncertain.
Trafficking in Human Beings Finances and Smuggles Terrorists
Authors: Debuf Johan
Published: February 2025

Trafficking in human beings and illegal immigration routes originate from and follow the same locations as those where terrorist groups are active. Existing routes are used by both. There is a proven relation between organized crime groups involved in trafficking (drugs, weapons, documents and human beings) and terrorism, as shown in different police investigations throughout Europe. This article demonstrates, on the base of trafficking in human beings investigations, all steps when this can occur. The actual relation exists as soon as it can benefit one of the parties involved.
Role of Public Health Diplomacy in Regional Stability
Authors: Levett Jeffrey
Published: February 2025

Without health, societies can be crippled. A crippled society does not produce, contributes to migration and, being vulnerable, can easily succumb to terrorists. Neither the rule of law, nor a legal system is sufficient to protect and promote population health adequately. Public health counteracts social inequality and reinforces country security. Public health can improve disaster response, and health diplomacy can improve trust. A stronger application in the Balkans would be beneficial. Health diplomacy is a political change agent that improves global health while repairing failures in classical diplomacy. Public health can curb vulnerability. The emergence of cross-border flows of disease, bio-terrorism, shifting geo-political environments and more complex linkages between health, trade, intellectual property, and human rights, presents a complex matrix of technical and relational challenges. Gaps need to be reduced in co-ordination procedures between local, national, and regional response operations, early warning and response systems need to be strengthened and better recognized as an asset against terrorism.
The Way to NATO, Alliance of Common Values
Authors: Vangelovski Jovo
Published: February 2025

NATO is not only a military and a political alliance, but above all, it is an alliance of common values. We all want to live in a democratic world, a world where there is rule of law, freedom of the media, respect of the human rights and functioning institutions, not only passing new laws, but also taking care of their effective implementation. Foreign fighters and violent extremism have become for all of us a top priority in relation with security. In September 2014, the Parliament of the FY Republic of MacedoniaTurkey recognizes the Republic of Macedonia with its constitutional name (this note applies to any mention of the name FY Republic of Macedonia in this document).
Why an Integrated Structure to Fight Organized Crime and Terrorism?
Authors: Sargenti Barbara
Published: February 2025

Terrorist threats and acts carried out by transnational criminal networks who use terror for their own economic interests or political goals should be defined as organized crime. The same knowledge and tools used with results in countering criminal organizations should be applied.
An Insight into Mitigation of Glass Soft Targets and Design of Protective Facades
Authors: Bedon Chiara  , Kruszka Leopold
Published: February 2025

Glass, due to several motivations, attracts the attention of architects and designers. Especially in the last two decades, the use of glass in buildings in the form of load-bearing material increased significantly. On one hand, the architectural impact of wide glass surfaces is a key aspect for designers. On the other hand, however, glass facades and structures are highly vulnerable to extreme loads, especially terroristic attacks, and should be designed to provide appropriate protection to the occupants. In this paper, a brief insight into design concepts and trends, as well as methods in use for the optimisation of glass structures under blast loads is reported, with careful consideration for glass facades.
Analysis of Consequences of Terrorist Attacks at Hazardous Industrial Facilities According to Directive on Prevention of Severe Accidents
Authors: Klyuchka Yuiry
Published: February 2025

An intentional and coordinated destruction of facilities can affect economies of countries, create social and political upheavals. We prove that features of modern quadcopters are sufficient for their possible use for terrorist purposes at industrial facilities. It is determined, that the property damage, caused by a UAV, can exceed the cost of the quadcopter and used explosive in 500000 times and even more.
Possible Aspect of Economic Generators of Asymmetric Threats
Authors: Miščević, Tanja  , Mitrović Miroslav
Published: February 2025

Regarding the Balkans, it's very important to stress a regional approach to the aim of the EU integration process as a tool against asymmetric treats. There are two points of view on the approach to the integration of the Balkans: the outside approach, which sees integration as a foreign political tool of the EU and standardization as the coin of enlargement policy; or a common perspective of a future for all Balkan countries with an open and clear declared wish of all countries in the region to become the members of the EU. If we put to one side all other potential asymmetric threats, economic development, investment and the maturity of preconditions for new foreign investments this could be an adequate way to ensure the stable development of the Balkan region.
Medical/Hospital CBRN Defense in a Megapolis Environment
Authors: Galatas Ioannis
Published: February 2025

When in 1995 members of the Aum Shinrikyo cult attacked Tokyo's subway system by releasing the nerve gas sarin, the world was shocked. It was the first usage of chemical warfare agents in a megapolis environment and a new shift in terrorism. Since then, and especially following the anthrax letters campaign accompanying the 9/11 incidents in the United States, the possibility of employment of weapons of mass destruction by terrorists of the future became more evident. In all CBRN plans, medical/hospital CBRN defence represents the weak link. State bodies tend to invest in operational aspects of CBRN operations while forgetting that medical consequences might last months or even years. On the other hand, the medical community in general is not very willing to be involved in such operations. A second problem is rooted within the administration attitude. If people in high places do not believe that new emerging threats pose a danger to the society, then it is extremely difficult to make a good plan. Problems identified during the 2004 Olympic Games in Athens regarding medical/hospital CBRN defence remained unsolved during the next Olympiad in China and are expected to be there during the London 2012 Olympic Games.
Scalable Thermodynamic Second-order Optimization
Authors: Donatella Kaelan , Duffield Samuel , Melanson Denis , Aifer Maxwell , Klett Phoebe , Salegame Rajath , Belateche Zach , Crooks Gavin , Martinez Antonio J. , Coles Patrick J.
Published: February 2025

Many hardware proposals have aimed to accelerate inference in AI workloads. Less attention has been paid to hardware acceleration of training, despite the enormous societal impact of rapid training of AI models. Physics-based computers, such as thermodynamic computers, offer an efficient means to solve key primitives in AI training algorithms. Optimizers that normally would be computationally out-of-reach (e.g., due to expensive matrix inversions) on digital hardware could be unlocked with physics-based hardware. In this work, we propose a scalable algorithm for employing thermodynamic computers to accelerate a popular second-order optimizer called Kronecker-factored approximate curvature (K-FAC). Our asymptotic complexity analysis predicts increasing advantage with our algorithm as \(n\), the number of neurons per layer, increases. Numerical experiments show that even under significant quantization noise, the benefits of second-order optimization can be preserved. Finally, we predict substantial speedups for large-scale vision and graph problems based on realistic hardware characteristics.
Syphilis in Poland in 2021-2022
Authors: Niedźwiedzka-Stadnik Marta , Zakrzewska Karolina
Published: February 2025

Background

In 2020, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, there was a significant decrease in the number of detected syphilis cases in Poland, but in the following years a more than two-fold increase in new infections was observed.

Objective

The aim of the study was to assess the epidemiological situation of syphilis cases in Poland in 2021-2022 in comparison to previous years.

Material and methods

Analysis of the epidemiological situation was based on case-based data from reports of newly detected syphilis cases recognized in 2021-2022 years and received from doctors and laboratories. Additionally aggregated data from MZ-56 reports on infectious diseases, infections and poisoning from 2016 to 2019 sent from Sanitary Inspections to NIPH NIH – NRI was used. Also, data about treatment patients in dermatology/venerology clinics in 2016-2022 reported on MZ-14 forms and published in statistics bulletin on NIPH NIH – NRI website.

Results

In 2021 in Poland 1,403 newly diagnosed syphilis cases were reported (diagnosis rate was 3.67 per 100,000), including 31 cases among non-Polish citizens. However in 2022, 44.8% more cases were diagnosed, i.e. 2,032 cases (diagnosis rate 5.38 per 100,000 inhabitants), including 75 infections of citizenship other than Polish.
Between 2021-2022, the most often syphilis cases were detected among people below 40 year old (74.2%) and among men (88.4%).

Conclusions

In 2020, the number of reported a newly detected syphilis cases decreased more than by half compared to the previous year, what is probably connected with COVID-19 pandemic and action taken to limited this. However, the increase in infections observed since 2021 confirms changes in the frequency of syphilis detection in Poland observed even before the pandemic.
Rapid determination of magnesium and calcium ions in saline and seawater
Authors:   Faculty of Chemistry – University of Science HCMC, Tran Nhat Quang ,   Viet Nam National University, HCMC, Tran Nhut Duong ,   Faculty of Chemistry – University of Science HCMC; Viet Nam National University, HCMC, Truong-Lam Hai Son ,   Faculty of Chemistry – University of Science HCMC; Viet Nam National University, HCMC
Published: February 2025

Access to fresh water from seawater treatment is crucial for sustaining human life. Furthermore, Ca and Mg in seawater represent valuable resources for agricultural and industrial purposes, warranting thorough analysis and recovery efforts. This study introduces the use of ortho-cresolphthalein complex one (o-CPC) for the rapid determination of Ca and Mg concentrations in saline and seawater samples. This approach utilizes a basic complexation reaction and follows the concept of a swift, point-of-care testing kit used to analyze samples, specifically biological specimens. The methodology was meticulously examined and optimized, encompassing key parameters such as reagent concentration, employment of masking agents, determination of optimal wavelengths, and assessments of accuracy and precision. The resulting standard curve exhibited high linearity (R2 > 0.995) across 0.5–5 mg. L−1 for Ca and 0.5–10 mg. L−1 for Mg. Notably, the method demonstrated good repeatability (% RSD < 5%) and achieved high recovery rates (95%–105%) when tested on spiked samples within real sample matrices. A comparative analysis between the o-CPC method and the F-AAS method (in accordance with the SMEWW 3111B:2017 standard) was conducted using three seawater samples, revealing no significant discrepancies in the analysis of Mg and Ca with a confidence level of 95%.
Morphological and preliminary molecular data on freshwater red algae in Tam Dao National Park, Vietnam
Authors:   Faculty of Biology, VNU University of Science, 334 Nguyen Trai, Thanh Xuan, Ha Noi, Viet Nam, Nguyen An Hoai , Cao Hong Anh Thi ,   Faculty of Biology, VNU University of Science, 334 Nguyen Trai, Thanh Xuan, Ha Noi, Viet Nam, Nguyen Duc Anh ,   Faculty of Biology, VNU University of Science, 334 Nguyen Trai, Thanh Xuan, Ha Noi, Viet Nam, Nguyen Lien Thuy ,   Faculty of Biology, VNU University of Science, 334 Nguyen Trai, Thanh Xuan, Ha Noi, Viet Nam
Published: February 2025

Rhodophyta is one of the oldest and largest groups of algae and is dominated by marine species, while freshwater species are relatively scarce. Although the diversity and distribution of rhodophytes in freshwater plants have been studied worldwide, there are few published records of freshwater red algae in Vietnam. Therefore, this study aimed to preliminarily investigate the morphology and analyze the phylogeny of freshwater red algae in Vietnam. This report provides information about red algal specimens collected in July 2018 and 2022 in the Tam Dao National Park watershed forests. Morphological analysis of the specimens revealed similar characteristics to those of Batrachospermum; however, phylogenetic analysis of the Tam Dao specimens and Batrachospermum placed them into different clades. Data relating to both morphological and molecular characteristics suggest that Tam Dao specimens may represent a new clade within Batrachospermaceae.
Advancements in Medical Image Segmentation Using the Minkowski Algorithm
Authors: Ruchi Bhardwaj  , Shanu Gour
Published: February 2025

Image segmentation refers to dividing an image into distinct segments or regions. It is important to distinguish between image parts and their alteration. The image fragmentation process focuses on segmenting the image based on its visual features such as brightness, contrast, and texture. In this segmentation approach, specific areas of the image are emphasized according to the given criteria. This paper will explore the effectiveness of different techniques applied to various types of images. The field of medical imaging is continuously evolving, with ongoing advancements in techniques and software aimed at improving the quality of healthcare services. The processes involved in tasks such as interpolation, image recognition, and resizing require further development to meet the increasing demands of the industry, as well as emerging technologies in mobile and cloud computing. The integration of medical devices and software with shareable platforms is also creating opportunities for further exploration. This paper provides valuable insights into the components of medical image segmentation systems and aims to explore the long-term potential of these segmentation methods.
A Review on K nearest Neighbour Classification Technique in Machine Learning
Authors: Dr. G. Vijaya Lakshmi
Published: February 2025

Classification is a Supervised Learning technique which is used to predict the correct category from the given input features. Logistic regression, decision trees, random forests, support vector machines (SVM), naive bayes, and K-nearest neighbors (KNN) are some of the several classification techniques.. This paper discusses the KNN classification technique, which uses the similarity measure of previously stored data points to classify new data points.
ANALYSIS OF KEY ENERGY CONSUMPTION MODELS IN THE CONTEXT OF MODERN UKRAINE
Authors: Юрченко Марина
Published: February 2025

The article addresses the issue of modeling electricity consumption volumes. In the context of full-scale war in Ukraine, electricity has become one of the most significant consumption products in the country, constituting a substantial portion of the costs across nearly all sectors of the economy. As a result, forecasting, modeling, and constructing long-term estimates of electricity consumption dynamics have gained particular relevance for the country. This is a critical element in the plans for the balanced development and growth of national economic sectors in the post-war period. The energy situation presents new demands on the quality of mathematical forecasts, especially regarding integrated long-term predictions. Existing methods for long-term electricity consumption forecasting and the models developed based on them are often not used comprehensively enough, which frequently leads to significant errors in the forecasts. In the field of systems research, there have been significant changes in the understanding of the hierarchy of energy systems and approaches to forecasting. Mathematical models of energy systems have become an integral tool in the development of government forecasts and business plans for companies, and the requirements for these models have grown considerably. Forecasts and plans now need to be directly linked to the financial indicators of companies, which determine their ability to accumulate internal funds and attract external investments. This has greatly complicated the process of modeling the interrelationships between energy and the economy. This paper attempts to comprehensively assess the degree to which existing methods and models meet the new requirements and challenges in Ukraine, as well as to identify directions for their improvement. The primary goal is to develop approaches that will effectively address key issues related to the study and consideration of the interconnections between energy and the economy. Particular attention is given to the issues arising in long-term forecasting and the formation of state energy policy, which requires modernization of the analytical and modeling tools currently in use.
УПРАВЛІННЯ ДЕПОЗИТНИМ РИЗИКОМ В БАНКУ
Authors: Хома Ірина , Головко Анастасія
Published: February 2025

У статті досліджено сутність, механізм управління депозитною політикою та основні виклики депозитного ризику банку, з якими стикається український фінансовий сектор в умовах військового конфлікту, що триває. Важливість теми зумовлена необхідністю адаптації банківської системи до нових реалій війни. Проаналізовано напрями розвитку ринку депозитних послуг в Україні наслідки впливу депозитного ризику на банківську діяльність та проблеми управління депозитними ризиками на сучасному етапі розвитку банківського сектору України. Висвітлено підходи до управління ризиками депозитних операцій. Виявлено переважання короткострокових депозитів у структурі зобов’язань банків. Спостерігається тенденція збільшення обсягів валютних вкладів у депозитних портфелях банків України. Представлено динаміку депозитних вкладів за валютами та строками їх розміщення. Запропоновано класифікацію заходів для управління традиційними ризиками банків та надано рекомендації щодо підвищення ефективності управління депозитними ризиками. Зокрема, впровадження цифрових інструментів і механізмів, що підтримують дистанційні послуги, може стати ключовим фактором забезпечення безперервності фінансових послуг.
MANAGEMENT OF INTERNATIONAL COMPETITIVENESS OF THE UKRAINIAN AGRICULTURAL ENTERPRISES IN TERMS OF MARTIAL LAW (ON THE EXAMPLE OF «NIBULON» LLC)
Authors: Файчук Олександр , Богданюк Олександр
Published: February 2025

The article is devoted to the study of key aspects of managing the international competitiveness of agricultural enterprises using the example of LLC JV "NIBULON" under martial law in Ukraine. The challenges and threats to the realization of domestic export potential in the agricultural sector as a result of the full-scale invasion of the Russian Federation into the territory of Ukraine are summarized. The export potential and changes in the dynamics of agricultural exports of one of the leaders of the domestic agricultural market - LLC JV "NIBULON" are considered. The commodity and geographical structure of exports of the studied enterprise is analyzed. Using the Boston Consulting Group's Matrix "growth-share", the actual competitive advantages of LLC JV "NIBULON" in terms of strategic business areas were identified, a conclusion was made about the level of balance of the business portfolio and investment directions were proposed to increase the overall degree of international competitiveness of the enterprise. Moreover, the strategic business areas of the company were identified that could potentially act as an investment donor and that could have the prospect of development or liquidation. Due to the application of methodology of B.Balassa for assessing the international competitiveness of products, which is based on the identified comparative advantages (RCA), the presence and magnitude of the competitive advantages of LLC JV "NIBULON" and LLC "KERNEL" for certain types of agricultural products was established. The use of the strategic management method - SWOT analysis made it possible to select and substantiate the necessary type of business strategy for the company's development in the international market, based on the actual strong and weak competitive positions of LLC JV "NIBULON" and the current opportunities and threats for the company, caused primarily by the process of European integration and the military situation in the country. Using the method of assessing the comparative advantages of products (RCA), the actual competitive position of Ukraine in the global wheat flour market was identified, and the prospects of domestic enterprises in the market of EU member states that will specialize in the production and export of this type of food were also clarified.
БРЕНДИНГ ЯК ІНСТРУМЕНТ ПРОСУВАННЯ ТУРИСТИЧНИХ ДЕСТИНАЦІЙ (НА ПРИКЛАДІ СМТ.МЛИНІВ РІВНЕНСЬКОЇ ОБЛАСТІ)
Authors: Шейко Юлія , Чугай Софія
Published: February 2025

У статті обґрунтовано, що в умовах зростаючої конкуренції між туристичними дестинаціями, одним із інструментів конкурентної боротьби і підвищення впізнаваності територій є брендинг. Аналіз туристичного потенціалу смт. Млинів показав, що територія має низку ресурсів для розвитку туризму, зокрема природні, історико-культурні та рекреаційні об'єкти. Однак, їх недостатнє використання знижує конкурентоспроможність регіону на туристичному ринку. Проведено аналіз сучасного стану брендингу дестинації, який виявив низький рівень впізнаваності населеного пункту серед туристів через відсутність системної роботи з позиціювання. Основні проблеми включають нерозвиненість інфраструктури, відтік населення із сільських районів, обмежене фінансування, недостатню промоцію та відсутність єдиної стратегії розвитку. Запропоновано шляхи вирішення визначених проблем та розроблено концепцію брендингу смт. Млинів як центру екотуризму та культурного відпочинку, в основі ідеї якого - Палац Ходкевичів – перлина історії на берегах Ікви. Розроблено дорожню карту просування бренду смт. Млинів на коротко-, середньо- та довгострокову перспективу.
СОЦІАЛЬНО-ЕКОНОМІЧНІ ДЕТЕРМІНАНТИ ФІНАНСОВОЇ СТАБІЛЬНОСТІ ТЕРИТОРІЙ
Authors: Музиченко Вікторія
Published: February 2025

У статті досліджено соціально-економічні детермінанти фінансової стабільності територій, зосереджено увагу на Харківській області. Визначено ключові чинники, що впливають на фінансову стійкість регіону: рівень зайнятості, доходи населення, інвестиційну привабливість, розвиток соціальної інфраструктури та цифровізацію. Проаналізовано основні виклики, спричинені воєнними діями, зниженням економічної активності та руйнуванням інфраструктури, а також перспективи фінансового відновлення регіону. Окреслено напрями зміцнення стабільності, зокрема підтримку підприємництва, стимулювання інвестицій, модернізацію інфраструктури та інтеграцію цифрових рішень. Отримані результати можуть бути використані для формування стратегій фінансової стійкості та забезпечення сталого економічного розвитку регіону.