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  • ADVANTAGES AND DISADVANTAGES OF USING ELECTRIC TUGBOATS

    The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has implemented rules aiming to halve emissions by 2050 within the maritime industry. Greenport is a port initiative emphasizing environmental sustainability, striving for minimal emissions across all operations and activities. The integration of electric tugboats into maritime operations has garnered significant attention as the maritime industry seeks to address environmental concerns and transition towards sustainable practices. This paper explores the multifaceted advantages and disadvantages associated with the adoption of electric propulsion technology in tugboats. One of the primary advantages of electric tugboats lies in their potential to significantly reduce emissions and environmental impact compared to conventional diesel-powered vessels. By utilizing electric propulsion systems, tugboats can operate with zero emissions at the point of use, thereby mitigating air and water pollution in port areas and surrounding communities. This environmental benefit aligns with global efforts to combat climate change and improve air quality, making electric tugboats an attractive option for ports and shipping companies aiming to reduce their carbon footprint. The adoption of electric tugboats also presents several challenges and considerations. One of the primary challenges is the upfront cost associated with purchasing electric tugboats and establishing the necessary charging infrastructure. While electric tugboats may offer long-term cost savings through reduced fuel and maintenance expenses, the initial investment required for electric propulsion systems and charging infrastructure can be substantial, posing a barrier to adoption for some operators. The adoption of electric tugboats presents both opportunities and challenges for the maritime industry. While electric propulsion technology offers significant environmental and operational benefits, stakeholders must carefully evaluate the advantages and disadvantages to make informed decisions regarding the integration of electric tugboats into their fleets. By addressing challenges such as upfront costs, infrastructure requirements, and technological limitations, the maritime industry can harness the potential of electric propulsion technology to drive sustainable innovation and achieve long-term environmental and economic goals.
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  • GENERAL NOTIONS OF CRANIOPLASTY

    The skull is a bony cavity that protects the brain. The skull is composed of four types of bones, namely, the cranial bones, facial bones, ear ossicles and hyoid bone, but two parts are more important: the skull and the mandible. In humans, these two parts are the neurocranium (brain shell) and viscerocranium (facial skeleton), which includes the mandible as its largest bone. The human cranium, the part that contains the brain, is globular and relatively large in comparison with the face. In most other animals the facial portion of the skull, including the upper teeth and the nose, is larger than the cranium. In humans the skull is supported by the highest vertebra, called the atlas, permitting nodding motion. In this paper we present the influence of neurosurgical procedures and materials to treat skull defects.
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  • RESEARCH BASED ON THE CONCENTRATION OF PARTICULATE MATTER FROM DIFFERENT LOCATIONS OF CONSTANȚA

    In this paper, we propose to analyse the air quality in the urban environment, respectively in the city of Constanta. The sources of pollution are multiple, both for the air outside and for the air inside: solid and liquid particles, gas emissions from vehicle exhaust, from industrial sources, cleaning products. All these sources of pollution constitute a real danger for human health, some being even toxic. 4 locations were chosen for measurements and the concentrations of PM2.5, PM10 particles were measured, after which the risk level was established in the period April-May 2024, comparing the data with those provided by the National Environmental Protection Agency. The analysed results show that the quality parameters for PM2.5 and PM10 particles in the outside air have a moderate impact on the environment, while for the premises they are within accessible limits.
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  • ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE AS A CATALYST FOR CHANGING INTERNATIONAL LAW

    The purpose of this work is to highlight some harsh realities with which modern society is confronted, discussing the growing discrepancy between the evolution of artificial intelligence capabilities to intervene in people's lives and the set of laws that regulate, and especially, impose some practical barriers within the development framework of this technological domain. Laws and draft laws tangential or of immediate applicability will be analysed in what follows, they will be commented on and interpreted. Likewise, we will address the micro and macro perspective, both national and international, and conclude with proposals for laws that, from our point of view, need to be subject to debate in order to reach a consensus. The importance of the issue is often debated in academic circles, as well as in everyday discussions. So, how far do we let artificial intelligence make our lives easier? What is the limit between "enough" and "too much"? Is it worth giving up our individual freedom to increase comfort and security? To these questions and many others, we will try to provide answers with the help of this writing, inviting those who wish to engage in constructive argumentation.
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  • BETWEEN STABILITY AND CHANGE: A COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF PERSPECTIVES ON GLOBAL ORDER

    The concept of global order has been a recurring theme of analysis and debate in academia and civil society. This paper proposes a comparative analysis of the contributions of two reference writers regarding the concept of global order. By approaching the works of Henry Kissinger and Immanuel Wallerstein, the authors investigate how Kissinger and Wallerstein perceive and conceive the dynamics and evolution of global order. The research methodology is based on the comparative analysis of the writings of Kissinger and Wallerstein, with an emphasis on theories of realism and their implications for national security and the nation-state. Through this comparative approach, the authors of the article propose to highlight the convergences between the two viewpoints, allowing for a broader understanding of the perspective on the concept of global order. This article aims not only to retrospectively analyse the thinking of Kissinger and Wallerstein but also to formulate some perspectives on the imperious ability of the global order. Thus, the authors of the article may provide an answer to key concerns regarding the viability and sustainability of the current global order, the exploration of reforms, and adaptation to new global realities. This approach contributes to the academic debate and aids the formulation of relevant conclusions concerning possible developments and necessary adjustments within the existent global order.
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  • THE IMPORTANCE OF MENTAL HEALTH IN MODERN SOCIETY

    In today’s society, mental health is a topic frequently discussed. With the extent of changes in our daily lives in recent years, driven by factors such as the COVID-19 pandemic, the increasing integration of technology into our daily routines, and social pressures, attention to the mental well-being of every individual in society has grown. While some sceptics view it as a topic that is given more attention than it deserves, we must acknowledge the impact that this highly subjective factor has both on every individual within the community we live in and on society as a whole. Mental health has a profound effect on the development of personal life, but it also clearly influences individual performance in academic and professional settings. The well-being of each person and of society, in general, is closely linked to thriving mental health; however, this topic remains stigmatized and often insufficiently addressed.
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  • TYPES OF CYBERATTACKS TARGETING HR COMPANIES

    Cyberattacks on a human resources company's Wi-Fi networks can expose client data and internal systems, damaging the company's reputation. This article outlines the major attack types and the implemented security measures by the company against cyberattacks, in the context of Wi-Fi network protection. A scenario of an attack is presented, aiming to prevent and minimize cyber risks and attacks. The measures discussed lead to improved security of networks and systems, strengthened data protection, and the development of a system capable of facing the constantly evolving cyber threats. They reduce risks of unauthorized access, financial losses, and reputational damage. To maintain a high level of security, employee education and constant monitoring are crucial. Furthermore, the managers of a human resources company can use the results of this study to protect clients, employees, and the company's confidential data, thereby improving business efficiency.
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  • SEMI-EMPIRICAL MODEL FOR PREDICTING THE SPECIFIC ENERGY CONSUMPTION IN REVERSE OSMOSIS DESALINATION

    The first goal of this study is to examine the performance of a semi-empirical model used for calculating specific energy consumption (SEC) in reverse osmosis desalination. We have introduced a simulation tool (SECSM) to compare this semi-empirical model (SECSEM) and the SECSM. It's worth noting that the simulation model is open source and can be easily integrated easily with other software tools. For this comparison, we explored a temperature range T (10°C - 22°C - 35°C), recovery rate R from 30% to 65%, and a pump efficiency range of γ_HPP ~78% to 98%. An increase in these parameters leads to a decrease in SEC (both SECSEM and SECSM) for systems without energy recovery devices (ERD). However, the introduction of an ERD results in a variable change in SECSEM. Under specific conditions of 35°C, a pump efficiency of 98%, and an R of 65%, the SECSEM reaches its minimum values. In the case of the two-stage unit (TS), the SECSEM and SECSM models converge to the same value of 0.28 KWh/m³. Meanwhile, for the single-stage unit (SS), the values are 0.4 KWh/m³ and 0.39 KWh/m³, respectively. Regarding the unit equipped with the BW 400 34 and SW HF 085 31 membranes, in both SS and TS configurations, the energy consumption for both models converge towards the values 0.71 KWh/m³, 0.70 KWh/m³, and 0.95 KWh/m³, 0.94 KWh/m³ respectively. In the second part of this paper, a comparative study to validate this semi-empirical model without ERD against experimental data was conducted. The SECSEM showed values very close to the experimental results. The findings are discussed below.
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  • ROBOTIC ARM DESIGNED FOR ACTIVITIES IN HAZARDOUS ENVIRONMENTS

    The purpose of the project that is presented in this document is to present the idea of a robotic arm that is capable of operating in environments that present imminent damage to living organisms. Mainly , this robotic arm is designed to be easily built, maintained, operated and the possibility to be replaced partially or totally at a reasonable cost and be a reliable tool.
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  • MAXIMIZING SELF-CONSUMPTION FROM PHOTOVOLTAICS

    The present study refers to the maximization of self-consumption through the automation of a residential consumer that is or not fed from the low-voltage electrical network and from its own photovoltaic system. The level of self-consumption from photovoltaic sources in the residential sector is strictly dependent on the power installed in the own sources, as well as the load profile of the respective consumer. Two major directions are relevant regarding the possibility of increasing and optimizing self-consumption: the management of electrical energy storage systems (especially through the use of battery systems), respectively the implementation of load management systems, through the partial or total redistribution of their operation over time, but also through prioritization of critical consumers.
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  • PRACTICAL SESSION USED FOR A DEEPER UNDERSTANDING OF VAPOUR COMPRESSION SYSTEMS – A PURPOSE OF TEACHING IN CONSTANTA MARITIME UNIVERSITY

    In order to increase the knowledge of future marine engineers it is needed to bring closer the practical skills with theoretical gains. In Constanta Maritime University, Marine Refrigerating Plants is a discipline included in the curricula of future marine engineers. Practical learning can be also developed on low cost and effective means – as it will be proven in the paper. By using Coolselector 2, future marine engineers are trained to apply theoretical knowledge such as thermodynamics principles and to better understand the vapour compression cycle analysis, thermodynamic properties of refrigerants or the importance of the main components of a basic vapour compression refrigeration cycle. At the end of the practical session, students will gain important skills specific to theoretical aspects of refrigeration and thermodynamic processes and real situations.
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  • PRODUCTION OPTIMIZATION USING PETRI NETS

    The work finds purpose in the development of automating fibrous bag palletizing solutions. Using Petri nets, representation and studying of the entire process in a simple manner was possible, from bag apprehension until the final palletization of the filled bags – which allowed the analysis of system performance. Using PIPE, different process configurations were laid out and with FlexSim 2024 a virtual representation of the production line was made.
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  • CHARACTERIZATION OF PHYSICO-CHEMICAL AND BIOLOGICAL PARAMETERS IN AREAS WITH FISHING POTENTIAL

    In the present study, the physico-chemical quality of the water in the Midia coastal area, the Tasaul Lake and the Siutghiol Lake water bodies were analyzed, as integrated sites in the territory of the North Dobrogea FLAG. This study allows establishing the state of favourability of the aquatic ecosystem, focusing on the chlorophyll content as the basis of the trophic level. The premise of a stable ecosystem induces the possibility of developing natural fish resources. An essential attribute in the context of preserving natural heritage and increasing the attractiveness for fishing activities, is the need to evaluate the qualitative and quantitative profile of the phytoplankton and, respectively, the eutrophication indicators. If aquaculture activities will be developed in the analyzed areas in the future, they could increase the economic value of the Romanian sector of the Black Sea. The biological analyzes of the water quality are the basis of the substantiation of some methods of its determination and evaluation. Thus, testing the concentration of chlorophyll, the classes of algae and the photosynthetic activity, are useful for the evaluation of eutrophication in the aquatic environment, but also for the evaluation of productivity in the surface waters studied. At the same time, the determination and evaluation of the physical and chemical parameters of water quality allowed the realization of some correlations with the structure of the biota. In this sense, the analysis methods are based on the use of modern equipment based on real time (in situ) determinations.
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  • THE ENERGETIC TRANSITION OF SNP

    The paper "THE ENERGETIC TRANSITION OF SNP" synthesizes the green strategies that the company must apply, according to the European Green Pact, in order to avoid the expansion of environmental pollution. Regarding strategic strategies and objectives, the paper will focus on presenting strategic directions such as the approach of the sulphur dioxide emission reduction strategy and the digital transformation strategy. As for the environmental policy, it follows the principles of precaution, prevention and correction of pollution at source and on the principle „ the polluter pays”. Also, within the paper we will analyse some graphs and statistics on the financial performance of OMV PETROM, highlighting the success that the company has in recent years precisely due to green investments!
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  • SHORT INTRODUCTION ON PRESENT DESIGN AND TRENDS REGARDING

    This paper covers some aspects regarding present technology used in large crude oil carriers design and operation, as well as requirements regarding energy management on board. Obviously, due to complexity of such subject, there cannot be an exhaustive presentation. It is intended as a mere starting point for further discussion and research regarding possibilities to improve vessel’s general energy efficiency, including ways of using non-conventional and renewable energy, with due regard to specific trading routes involving large oil tankers. Some practical figures achieved typically on a Very Large Crude Oil Carriers engaged in international voyages are presented. A brief explanation on Energy Efficiency Index (EEI) and Carbon Conversion Factors (CF), as accepted by IMO, is also included. Work may be continued with further theoretical research in energy efficiency improvement on board such vessels. The article is structured in five parts: Introduction, Main Particulars of Large Tankers, Oil Tankers Outfitting, Energy Management Plan and Conclusion.
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  • BEYOND THE HORIZON: FUTURE TECHNOLOGIES TRANSFORMING MARITIME NAVIGATION

    The shipping industry is constantly evolving to meet today's demands and challenges. This article explores how innovations and trends in shipping are influencing the efficiency, sustainability and competitiveness of this vital sector of the global economy. Analysing technological transformations and emerging practices, the paper reveals how new technologies and cross-company collaborations are shaping the future of the maritime industry. The example of the BYD Explorer fleet, the first Ro-Ro vessel specialised in transporting electric cars, underlines the adaptability and innovation in response to the current needs of the automotive industry and sustainability requirements. At the same time, the collaboration between MOL and Bearing, which has led to the development of advanced solutions based on artificial intelligence, demonstrates the positive impact of innovation in optimising maritime operations.
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  • A REVIEW OF THE HARVESTING METHODS FOR OFFSHORE RENEWABLE ENERGY – ADVANCES AND CHALLENGES

    The present work offers general information about present-day and developments in offshore renewable energy, specially of wind, wave and the solar energy harnessing structures. In the introduction, the authors raise awareness of the despite more untapped potentials that exist in the oceans and the offshore Wind Energy Market that is experiencing a steep rise in the recent past due to technological advancement and the great policies that support this energy source. This mainly focuses on the very huge additionality of offshore wind power and the improvements in floating solar PV systems. Section three outlines an assortment of studies that were done by different writers on the strengths and weaknesses of offshore renewable energy technologies through a meta-analysis of the literature. The method of data extraction revolved around several factors, namely technological admissibility, resource identification, location and environmental and economic factors. The sources used comprised of scholarly articles published within the peer reviewed journals in the period of 2013 to 2024, to ensure that the study offered a comprehensive analysis on the technological advancements. The results and discussion section gives an analysis of the results achieved and demonstrates the developments in Offshore Wind Energy, Wave Energy Conversion, and Floating Solar PV Systems. Thus, offshore wind energy is described as the rapidly evolving segment and particular focus is made on the floating wind farms and their advancements in the aspects of power density and structural stability. Wave energy converters are discussed regarding their applicability to complement hybrid electricity production despite limited data on the devices’ performance. Another key feature is that the FFPV systems are reported to be more efficient and cheaper than the land mounted systems. Thus, the article emphasizes the need to produce the further literature on offshore renewable energy, political support, and cooperation between different sectors. It concludes that an offshore renewable energy has the potential for the future development due to advancement in the technology as well as due to environmental factors.
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  • DESCRIPTION OF TYPES OF RESEARCH

    Research is a form of knowledge whose content is given by the "creation" resulting from human curiosity, or better said, research activity. Scientific research is based on scientific knowledge and is a continuous search carried out within a complex process, the content of which is given by "scientific creation". The researcher's opinion is actually his answer, written in the form of a narrative, the content of which presents, in a logical and fluent structure, the staged development of the research activity, as well as the conclusions and results obtained as a result. When we discuss about types of research we are actually discussing different approaches that researchers can use to research a problem, a phenomenon or even a process. The methodology used in a research activity is often determined by the type of research being addressed. Therefore, there are different types of research, and each of them is conducted for a specific purpose, scope and type of data.
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  • EXPERIMENTAL RESEARCH ON THE PRESENCE OF HYDROCARBONS IN THE SOIL OF THE NORTH CONSTANTA ZONE

    This experimental research engages in an investigation of sediment quality, with a focus on the identification and quantification of hydrocarbons and other contaminants that may adversely affect the health of the marine and terrestrial ecosystem in the Black Sea region. The purpose of this experimental research is to contribute to the understanding of the dynamics of hydrocarbon pollution and its impact on the marine and terrestrial environment in the Black Sea area.
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  • EVALUATION OF DIFFERENT INTERPOLATION METHODS VIA ArcGIS, APPLIED TO SATELLITE DATA OF SEA SURFACE TEMPERATURE SST, CASE OF THE ALBORAN SEA

    In various fields such as Oceanography, interpolation methods are pivotal in generating continuous surface data from discrete point data. This research endeavors to conduct a comprehensive comparison and evaluation of deterministic interpolation techniques, including Radial Basis Function (RBF), Inverse Distance Weighting (IDW), and geostatistical methods like Kriging Universal (KU) and Kriging Ordinary (KO), in the context of mapping sea surface temperature (SST) within the Alboran Sea. Among these methods, the KO interpolation method emerges as particularly promising, boasting a Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) of 0.035 and an impressive coefficient of determination (R²) approaching unity (0.999). Furthermore, the cross-validation results reveal that the KO method not only provides the most accurate estimates but exhibits minimal bias, as evidenced by a mean error close to zero. These findings not only contribute to the field of SST mapping but also have broader implications for the interpolation of other climate parameters.
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  • URBAN DEVELOPMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT IN THE METROPOLITAN AREA OF CONSTANTA

    The purpose of this article is to draw attention to a potential environmental effect of the Constanta Metropolitan Area's growth. In order to accomplish this goal, the proposed objectives were as follows: measuring the concentration of several environmental variables in three different locations in the Constanta Metropolitan Area as well as assessing the air quality; comparing the measurement results with the hourly records of pollutant concentrations in various locations within the area of interest; and assessing the impact of human activity on the environment. In order to conduct this research, measurements were made with an Air Quality Monitor model JSM-131 and data recorded and provided by the National Air Quality Network and uRad Monitor on hourly concentrations of some environmental parameters in the area of interest were used. Metropolitan areas, which are defined by dense populations and activity centres, can preserve environmental quality by implementing local policies that are tailored to the specific demands of the community. This necessitates identifying and continually maintaining monitoring on local environmental hazards.
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  • CROWD PSYCHOLOGY AND PUBLIC ORDER EVENT MANAGEMENT: ANALYSIS OF COLLECTIVE BEHAVIOUR AND EFFECTIVE INTERVENTION STRATEGIES

    The management of public order events is a complex task that requires a deep understanding of crowd psychology and effective intervention strategies. This paper provides an analysis of collective behaviour and the key factors that can influence the behaviour of crowds during public order events. It also explores the role of law enforcement agencies and other public authorities in managing public order events and the importance of effective communication strategies. The paper emphasizes the need for a multi-disciplinary approach that incorporates insights from psychology, sociology, and other social sciences in the development of effective strategies for public order management. It argues that a better understanding of the dynamics of collective behaviour can help law enforcement officers to prevent or manage potentially dangerous situations during public order events. Effective communication is another key aspect of public order management, and the paper highlights the importance of clear and respectful language in establishing a rapport with the crowd and reducing the risk of confrontations. It also emphasizes the need for cultural sensitivity in communication strategies, especially in multicultural societies where different groups may have different norms and values. Overall, the paper concludes that effective public order management requires a deep understanding of the psychology of crowds, effective communication strategies, and a multi-disciplinary approach that incorporates insights from various social sciences
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  • EVOLUTIONS IN COMMUNICATION WITH A.I. SYSTEMS OF GENERATIVE PRETRAINED TRANSFORMATIVE TYPE. DEVELOPING A.I. MEDICAL TECHNOLOGIES AND TOOLS BASED ON DATA PREVIOUSLY ACQUIRED BY A.I. E-LEARNING TECHNOLOGY SYSTEMS

    This paper presents how A.I. can be used to create and develop useful applications, but also how data from a certain area of A.I. can be hijacked and repurposed in other areas of A.I, sometimes without the prior consent of the users, or even worse, information can be even hacked and used for evil purposes. It also shows how this fact can jeopardize and infringe upon the rights of users giving up their sensitive personal data in internet.
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  • HUNTING FOR GENIUS. WHAT IS BRILLIANCE? CAN A.I. BE BRILLIANT?

    This paper concerns the common features exhibited by geniuses and the ingredients which forms the recipe for a genius. It analyses the creativity of some of the most remarkable geniuses of mankind who have generated scientific theories and inventions, which brought our civilization further and further, in both, technology and in understanding our Universe. It presents what these geniuses had in common and what differentiated them from the common people, and also how they succeeded to achieve what they created. In its last section, this paper analyses the question whether A.I. could be brilliant or not and gives extensive explanations for the verdict regarding the potential brilliance of A.I.
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  • YOUNG’S MODULUS OF CALCIUM-ALUMINO-SILICATE GLASSES: INSIGHT FROM MACHINE LEARNING

    Modern technologies require the development of new materials with exceptional properties. Machine Learning (ML) and Deep Learning (DL) techniques have become important tools for discovering new materials and predicting the properties of specific materials, such as glasses. In this paper, we used ML and DL techniques to predict the Young's modulus E of Calcium-Alumino-Silicate (CAS) glasses based on their chemical composition. We evaluated four different algorithms, including Polynomial Regression (PR), Random Forest (RF), K-Nearest Neighbors (KNN), and Multi-Layer Perceptron Regressor (MLPRegressor). We found that the PR algorithm provides excellent predictions without Cross-Validation (CV), while the MLPRegressor yields the best performance when CV is implemented.
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