Abstract: This article presents the large-scale Integrated Scheduling Problem of TTC and DDT with Idle Degree Requirements (IS-TTC&DDT-IDR), which involves efficiently allocating antenna resources and scheduling tasks for tracking, telemetry, and command (TTC) as well as digital data transmission (DDT) in satellite ground stations. The problem aims to optimize task completion while managing idle resource capacity. To tackle this challenge, a Multi-Stages Local Search (MSLS) algorithm is proposed. The MSLS algorithm is designed based on the problem’s unique characteristics and is structured in three stages: the first stage uses a Forcibly Insertion Procedure (FIP) to generate a high-quality initial solution for DDT tasks, the second stage also uses the Forced Insertion Procedure (FIP) to optimize the TTC task, and the third stage enhances idle capacity through an Exchanging Procedure (EP). To design the experiments, this paper firstly extends task scale in quasi-real scenarios to ten-thousands level within a multi-satellite system, while current studies conduct their experiments in maximum 1600 tasks. Extensive empirical results based on such scenarios demonstrate that the MSLS algorithm outperforms reference algorithms on optimization value, stability, and convergence.

Abstract: Performance analysis, utilizing video technology and recent technological advancements in soccer stadiums, provides a wealth of data, including player trajectories and real-time game statistics, which are crucial for tactical evaluation and decision-making by coaches and players. This data allows for the definition of metrics that not only enriches the experience for soccer fans through enhanced visual displays, but also empowers coaching staff and managers to make informed, real-time decisions that directly impact match outcomes. Ultimately, it serves as a pivotal tool for improving team strategy based on comprehensive post-match data analysis. In this article, we present a mathematical model to study the concept of pressure between players and, subsequently, between teams. We first explore the concept in a fixed frame of a match, determining what we call {\sl influence areas} between players. We introduce the unit pressure function and analyze the total number of pressure interactions. Then, we apply these concepts to football matches, considering various factors such as players and the radius of the area of influence, examining pressure efficiency through mean unitary pressure. Lastly, a real case study is presented, showcasing visualizations like a heatmap matrix displaying individual and collective pressure, as well as team pressure balance.

Abstract:

This study assesses the informational usefulness of several uncertainty metrics in predicting the monetary policy and actual economic activity of Tunisia. We use a Bayesian time-varying vector autoregressive (VAR) model to identify uncertainty shocks sequentially. We complement the analysis with the use of Local Projections (LPs), a recently flexible and simple method that accommodates the effect of an exogenous intervention on policy outcomes. The findings suggest that shocks to global and spillover uncertainty are important in triggering economic fluctuations and elucidating the dynamics of consumer prices. The irreversibility theory or the “precaution” effect is tested in a Vector Error Correction Model (VECM). The money market rate impacts industrial production and consumer prices differently during high versus low uncertainty, depending on the uncertainty variable. The effects can be small, insignificant, or significantly negative, indicating that conventional monetary policy may be ineffective or less influential. The “wait and see” strategy adopted by economic agents implies that they do not take timely actions until additional pieces of information (especially precise) arrive. While this could not be the sole explanation of our finding, it conveys the importance of dealing with uncertainty in decision-making. Importantly, we think that it is maybe time for the central bank to switch to unconventional monetary policy instruments as a complement to the interest rate for better flexibility. Our work provides a comprehensive and clear picture of the Tunisian economy and a focal guide for the central bank’s future practices to achieve macroeconomic objectives.

Abstract: Fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) often use multilayer packaging (MLP), which consists of composites made up of separate layers of material. Even though a million tonnes of MLP are created annually, most package trash needs to be separated and recycled using the existing infrastructure, which is predominantly dependent on mechanical recycling. However, confronting circular economy principles, this review will foresee the challenges, opportunities, and future scenarios of multilayer packaging recycling. Challenges were identified: material complexity and compatibility, sorting separation technologies, contamination and residue management, lack of standardization and technology, loss of material properties, and cost considerations. Opportunities were identified: design for recyclability, enhanced sorting and separation techniques, and advanced recycling technologies. The future scenario of recycling technologies for MLP in upcoming years was identified, which includes (i) reprocessing to hydrocarbon, (ii) high-performance recycling, (iii) downcycling, and (iv) business as usual. The short-term opportunities for MLP's efficient recycling represent the recognized gap between recycling technologies and targets.

Abstract: Background/Objectives: The subject of this work is the reconstruction of the inner mechanics of Götz von Berlichingen's second "Iron Hand". The complex inner mechanics were unknown until Christian von Mechel published a detailed description in 1815. In this artificial hand, each finger can be engaged individually in its three joints and the thumb in one joint. Methods: Based on this description, the individual components were reconstructed at an enlarged scale of 2:1 using CAD software and a 3D printer for the mechanisms. In addition, an FEM analysis was carried out for the components exposed to the greatest stress in order to identify critical areas. Results: By making some adjustments to the mechanics, it was possible to reproduce the mechanisms on a scale of 2:1 on the basis of the index finger. However, if the model was scaled back to 1:1, the internal plastic components were too fragile. This problem was caused by the properties of the 3D printing materials and could be solved by manufacturing the springs from steel. Conclusions: This work aims to make a valuable contribution to the preservation and understanding of the historical artificial second "Iron Hand" of Götz von Berlichingen. It once again demonstrates the very precise and detailed craftsmanship of goldsmiths of that time.

Abstract: This research examines how Information and Communication Technology (ICT) development, economic growth, trade openness, Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) inflows, and electricity consumption influence environmental degradation in GCC countries from 1990 to 2022. Using panel data analysis, the study finds that ICT expansion and increased electricity consumption significantly contribute to higher CO2 emissions, exacerbating environmental degradation. Economic growth follows the Environmental Kuznets Curve (EKC) pattern, where environmental harm initially increases with growth but can decline as economies diversify and adopt cleaner technologies. Trade openness and FDI inflows, particularly in resource-intensive industries; also contribute to environmental degradation, supporting the pollution haven hypothesis. However, these factors present opportunities for sustainable development if paired with stricter environmental regulations and cleaner technology adoption. The study highlights the need for GCC policymakers to prioritize renewable energy investments, enforce stronger environmental policies, and promote energy efficiency to balance economic growth with environmental sustainability. Recommendations for future research include exploring other environmental factors and assessing the role of technological innovations in reducing emissions.

Abstract: Cowpea, Vigna unguiculata (L) also known as southern peas is a yearly grown legume that is native from Africa but now are widely cultivated around the world, particularly in South-east Asia, Latin America, and Southern United States. Moreover, the crop can endure excessive heat but is also susceptible to frost. Cowpea are profitable for the agricultural industry and are often utilized as a supplement nutrition for both human and animals. As a result, it serves as a significant low-cost source of premium plant protein across many poor households. Moreover, the crop is widely used as a green mature and as a cover crop. Furthermore, the cowpea thrives in a wide range of soil types and soil conditions. The crop's capacity to withstand drought is a special trait for coping with the severe environmental challenges caused by global warming. However, due to a prolonged lack of rain during the rainy season, South African agriculture is subject to severe edaphic and climatic challenges, including water stress and insufficient soil nutrients. Consequently, this work focuses on analyzing cowpea's growth phases by proposing novel regression models under the impact of water stress for local farmers to optimally map out cultivation over the period of drought without imperiling their yields. The proposed regression models predict the cowpea's growth at various periods of water stress including vegetative to maturity, flower to maturity and excellent water through the season. At each period of water stress, regression models of the leaf area and shoot dry weight are developed. The various growth phases of the cowpeas were studied under three-pot test conditions. The results suggest that water stress at initial growth phases decreased the shoot dry weight (SDW), and leaf area (LA) of studied cowpeas. Growth analysis of cowpeas species cultivated in pure stands for the distinctive periods showed that the leaf area was the most explanatory variable in the SDW of cowpea at the initial growth phase. The correlation coefficient of the LA and SDW of cowpeas produced by the proposed models at vegetative to maturity, flower to maturity and excellent water through the season are 0.957 and 0.983, 0.963 and 0.980, 0.957 and 0.976

Abstract: This study explores the development of a multifunctional composite material by incorporating carbon black (CB) into an epoxy matrix reinforced with 30 vol% jute fabric. The objective was to evaluate the impact of CB on the composite's tensile properties, ballistic performance, and electromagnetic shielding effectiveness (SE) within the X-band frequency range (8.2–12.4 GHz). The epoxy composite with 30 vol% jute and 5 vol% CB (EJ30/CB5) exhibited a 15% improvement in tensile strength and elastic modulus compared to the epoxy composite with 30 vol% jute (EJ30) only. Ballistic tests indicated no significant increase in absorbed energy or limit velocity, which may be attributed to the structural rigidity introduced by CB. Electromagnetic shielding analysis revealed that CB addition significantly enhanced SE from ~2 dB in neat epoxy to 5–8 dB in EJ30/CB5, with absorption emerging as the primary shielding mechanism. The findings highlight the potential of CB and jute-reinforced epoxy composites for applications requiring both mechanical robustness and electromagnetic interference shielding.

Abstract: Sulphur is an essential nutrient that fulfils various important functions in plants, including the formation of amino acids, proteins, chlorophyll and the support of nitrogen uptake, e.g. in legumes. A lack of sulphur not only impairs plant growth, but also quality and resistance to disease. In addition, the S supply is strongly influenced by soil and hydrological factors. The sulphur content of the atmosphere due to industrial combustion has fallen sharply in recent decades, which has ultimately led to a drop in S levels in the soil and also in certain plant species, initially in conventional farming and later particularly in organic farming. As a result, there has been a great increase in research into the causes and ways and means of improving yield and quality deficiencies on farms. In this summarised study, data from 98 sites in Central Europe (Germany, Austria, Sweden, Norway, Denmark, Belgium, Italy, Poland, Great Britain) were recorded from 1998 to 2023. The sulphur fertiliser trials were conducted on farms and experimental stations under organic farming conditions. 1169 treatment variants and 598 standard variants without or with reduced S-fertilisation were analysed. Fertilisation was carried out with various sources of sulphur, including kieserite, gypsum, elemental sulphur, epsom salt and other types, in different quantities and forms, usually directly before or during crop cultivation. Soil analyses were done according to VDLUFA specifications in Germany or comparable standards in Central Europe. The amounts of plant-available S in the soil were determined at depths of 0–30 cm, 30–60 cm and 60–90 cm. Site characteristics such as Smin, Nmin, soil type, pH value, precipitation and the extent of livestock farming were recorded. A sufficient amount of data was available for each experimental aspect to quantitatively describe the influence of increasing S supply to the soil or plant species groups (permanent grassland, lucerne-clover-grass, grain legumes, cereals) from severe deficiency to oversupply. The analyses therefore focused on establishing relationships between yield responses, correlations with the nitrogen uptake of crop species and N2 fixation in legumes and the nutrient supply with plant-available sulphur. The aim of these investigations was to develop assessment methods for the soil supply with available sulphur to achieve optimum DM yields. The results were also used to develop practical methods for determining fertiliser requirements for different crop species in organic farming.

Abstract: Garden cress (Lepidium sativum) seeds, from the Brassicaceae family, are rich in essential fatty acids and possess medicinal properties due to their phenol and flavonoid content. Oil extraction was performed using Soxhlet extraction with hexane as the solvent, investigating the effects of heat treatment, particle size, and extraction time on oil yield. A maximum predicted oil yield of 28.65% was achieved using Design Expert software (version 12.0.0), validated with an actual yield of 28.53%. The physical properties of the oil were determined as density (700 ± 10 kg/m³), viscosity (67.65 ± 1.15 mm²/s), and refractive index (1.47). Chemical properties included a free fatty acid value of 0.64%, peroxide value of 3.59 meq/kg, iodine value of 127 g I₂/100 g, and saponification value of 183.84 mg KOH/g. GC-MS analysis revealed that the oil contains 47.81% monounsaturated, 37.88% polyunsaturated, and 14.26% saturated fatty acids.