Skianis Charalabos

Abstract:
Smart farming has emerged as a promising approach to address the agriculture industry’s significant contribution to greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. However, the effectiveness of current smart farming practices in mitigating GHG emissions remains a matter of ongoing debate. This review paper provides an in-depth examination of the current state of GHG emissions in smart farming, highlighting the limitations of existing practices in reducing GHG emissions and introducing innovative strategies that leverage the advanced capabilities of 6G-enabled IoT (6G-IoT). By enabling precise resource management, facilitating emission source identification and mitigation, and enhancing advanced emission reduction techniques, 6G-IoT integration offers a transformative solution for managing GHG emissions in agriculture. However, while smart agriculture focuses on technological applications for immediate efficiency gains, it also serves as a crucial component of sustainable agriculture by providing the tools necessary for long-term environmental supervision and resource sustainability. As a result, this study also contributes to sustainable agriculture by providing insights and guiding future advancements in smart farming, particularly in the context of 6G-IoT, to develop more effective GHG mitigation strategies for smart farming applications, promoting a more sustainable agricultural future.

Abstract:
The Internet of Things (IoT) is gaining popularity and market share, driven by its ability to connect devices and systems that were previously siloed, enabling new applications and services in a cost-efficient manner. Thus, the IoT fuels societal transformation and enables groundbreaking innovations like autonomous transport, robotic assistance, and remote healthcare solutions. However, when considering the Internet of Remote Things (IoRT), which refers to the expansion of IoT in remote and geographically isolated areas where neither terrestrial nor cellular networks are available, internet connectivity becomes a challenging issue. Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTNs) are increasingly gaining popularity as a solution to provide connectivity in remote areas due to the growing integration of satellites and Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) with cellular networks. In this survey, we provide the technological framework for NTNs and Remote IoT, followed by a classification of the most recent scientific research on NTN-based IoRT systems. Therefore, we provide a comprehensive overview of the current state of research in IoRT and identify emerging research areas with high potential. In conclusion, we present and discuss 3GPP’s roadmap for NTN standardization, which aims to establish an energy-efficient IoRT environment in the 6G era.

Abstract:
Throughout human history, agriculture has undergone a series of progressive transfor- mations based on ever-evolving technologies in an effort to increase productivity and profitability. Over the years, farming methods have evolved significantly, progressing from Agriculture 1.0, which relied on primitive tools, to Agriculture 2.0, which incorporated machinery and advanced farming practices, and subsequently to Agriculture 3.0, which emphasized mechanization and employed intelligent machinery and technology to enhance productivity levels. To further automate and increase agricultural productivity while minimizing agricultural inputs and pollutants, a new ap- proach to agricultural management based on the concepts of the fourth industrial revolution is being embraced gradually. This approach is referred to as “Agriculture 4.0” and is mainly implemented through the use of Internet of Things (IoT) technologies, enabling the remote control of sensors and actuators and the efficient collection and transfer of data. In addition, fueled by technologies such as robotics, artificial intelligence, quantum sensing, and four-dimensional communication, a new form of smart agriculture, called “Agriculture 5.0,” is now emerging. Agriculture 5.0 can exploit the growing 5G network infrastructure as a basis. However, only 6G-IoT networks will be able to offer the technological advances that will allow the full expansion of Agriculture 5.0, as can be inferred from the relevant scientific literature and research. In this article, we first introduce the scope of Agriculture 5.0 as well as the key features and technologies that will be leveraged in the much-anticipated 6G-IoT communication systems. We then highlight the importance and influence of these developing technologies in the further advancement of smart agriculture and conclude with a discussion of future challenges and opportunities.

Abstract:
The aim of this article is to explore a paradigm shift on Brain Computer Interface (BCI) research, as well as on intervention best practices for training and rehabilitation of students with neurodevelopmental disorders. Recent studies indicate that BCI devices have positive impact on students\' attention skills and working memory as well as on other skills, such as visuospatial, social, imaginative and emotional abilities. BCI applications aim to emulate humans\' brain and address the appropriate understanding for each student\'s neurodevelopmental disorders. Studies conducted to provide knowledge about BCI-based intervention applications regarding memory, attention, visuospatial, learning, collaboration, and communication, social, creative and emotional skills are highlighted. Only non-invasive BCI type of applications are being investigated based upon representative, non-exhaustive and state-of-the-art studies within the field. This article examines the progress of BCI research so far, while different BCI paradigms are investigated. BCI-based applications could successfully regulate students\' cognitive abilities when used for their training and rehabilitation. Future directions to investigate BCI-based applications for training and rehabilitation of students with neurodevelopmental disorders concerning the different populations involved are discussed.

Abstract:
The purpose of this review article is to present state-of-the-art approaches and examples of virtual reality/augmented reality (VR/AR) systems, applications and experiences which improve student learning and the generalization of skills to the real world. Thus, we provide a brief, representative and non-exhaustive review of the current research studies, in order to examine the effects, as well as the impact of VR/AR technologies on K-12, higher and tertiary education students’ twenty-first century skills and their overall learning. According to the literature, there are promising results indicating that VR/AR environments improve learning outcomes and present numerous advantages of investing time and financial resources in K-12, higher and tertiary educational settings. Technological tools such as VR/AR improve digital-age literacy, creative thinking, communication, collaboration and problem solving ability, which constitute the so-called twenty-first century skills, necessary to transform information rather than just receive it. VR/AR enhances traditional curricula in order to enable diverse learning needs of students. Research and development relative to VR/AR technology is focused on a whole ecosystem around smart phones, including applications and educational content, games and social networks, creating immersive three-dimensional spatial experiences addressing new ways of human–computer interaction. Raising the level of engagement, promoting self-learning, enabling multi-sensory learning, enhancing spatial ability, confidence and enjoyment, promoting student-centered technology, combination of virtual and real objects in a real setting and decreasing cognitive load are some of the pedagogical advantages discussed. Additionally, implications of a growing VR/AR industry investment in educational sector are provided. It can be concluded that despite the fact that there are various barriers and challenges in front of the adoption of virtual reality on educational practices, VR/AR applications provide an effective tool to enhance learning and memory, as they provide immersed multimodal environments enriched by multiple sensory features.

Abstract:
The purpose of this review article is to explore a new paradigm on healthcare assessment and intervention practices for students with learning, physical and/or sensory disabilities. The perspective presented here is regarded as patient centric and relies on ICTs, in order to address evidence–based treatment and care, meeting every individual’s health profile, with regard to his or her needs, preferences, goals and culture. Patient-centric ICTs based approach has an impact on healthcare systems, introducing a multi-disciplinary care planning that overcomes individual, professional and organizational barriers, reduces anxiety and establishes better understanding with the student at the center. Generally, results show the impact of the interoperability of healthcare information between patients’ healthcare record and information systems which facilitate healthcare systems to be lifesaving if available at the time of medical examination. When medical treatment is combined with ICTs based methods and applications such as Serious Games, Mobile Assistive Technologies applications, Telehealth Systems and Virtual Training, patients with learning, physical and/or sensory disabilities can benefit from a cost-effective and flexible network model while having their customized needs fully examined and resolved. The articles presented within this review demonstrate that ICTs based patient-centeredness for students with learning, physical and/or sensory disabilities is associated with better (functional) outcomes leading to quality of life and inclusion, improved quality of care, fewer problem behaviors, higher levels of health-related autonomy and greater patient satisfaction.

Abstract:
Purpose The purpose of this paper is to explore the integration of serious games (SGs) in the area of special educational needs in the last ten years (2007-2017). Design/methodology/approach SGs indicate positive effects on students with special educational needs and promote a multi-sensory style of learning. Findings Research showed that SGs are able to keep K-12 education students with attention, memory and developmental disabilities engaged in classroom facilities scaffolding their learning through increased motivation, independence, autonomy and resultant self-esteem. Research limitations/implications Time constraints, cost and availability of appropriate games as well as the small sample of the individuals being investigated are some of the research limitations the paper refers to. Practical implications Learning through SGs has educational values that are based on learning concepts intrinsically motivating. Social implications Students with attention, memory and developmental disabilities demonstrate characteristics of engagement, creativity, control and communication. Originality/value SGs-based learning has proven its value added to students with attention, memory and executive control difficulties as well as mental or developmental disabilities engaging students better than when using traditional methods.

Abstract:
Serious Games (SGs) indicate positive effects on Preschool and Primary school students and promote a multi sensory style of learning. This review paper explores the integration of Serious Games in the area of Preschool and Primary Education, in the last decade (2006-2016). The studies were carried out on Preschool and Primary school settings, respectively. Research showed that Serious Games are able to keep all students engaged in classroom facilities, scaffolding their learning through increased motivation, independence, autonomy and resultant self-esteem. Serious Games Based Learning (GBL) has proven its added value in almost every aspect of the curriculum.

Abstract:
During the last years, a continuous convergence and fusion of computing and networking systems is stressed in the ICT research community. Context awareness appears to be a major research "glue-point" of such kind of heterogeneous environments' integration. In this survey paper, we aim to assemble all the "puzzle-pieces" of the emerging research area of Context Aware Mobile and Wireless Networking (CAMoWiN) in order to provide the reader a holistic representation of the work having been done in the past emphasizing in recent research efforts. A precise definition of abstract Context Aware (CA) functionalities together with a clear classification of related state-of-the-art proposals are provided in the form of a proposed taxonomy scheme per CA functionality. Each taxonomy scheme can also serve as a sufficiently general framework permitting the easy classification of novel CAMoWiN solutions emerging in the near future. Therefore, our study not only defines all the possible components of a CAMoWiN architecture and clearly points out the similarities and differences of all research efforts in the field but also evaluates future research trends and paves the way for the researchers to work beyond the concepts investigated in this work. Finally, apart from identifying the open challenges, which arise when applying traditional concepts of pervasive computing to mobile and wireless networks, we further map them to the Mobile Cloud Computing paradigm, whose concepts appear to be very promising regarding next generation networking and computing environments' integration.

Abstract:
The integration of wireless sensor networks with different network systems gives rise to many research challenges to ensure security, privacy and trust in the overall architecture. The main contribution of this paper is a generic security, privacy and trust framework providing context-aware adaptability, flexibility and scalability which allows customisation of wireless sensor networks to a diverse set of application spaces. Suitable protocols and mechanisms are identified, which when combined according to the framework form a complete toolbox solution which fits the architecture of Beyond 3G environments. Performance evaluation results demonstrate the feasibility and estimate the benefits of the security framework for a variety of scenarios.

Abstract:
Sensor networks highly depend on the distributed cooperation among network nodes. Trust establishment frameworks provide the means for representing, evaluating, maintaining and distributing trust within the network, and serve as the basis for higher level security services. This paper provides a state-of-the art review of trust establishment frameworks for ad hoc and sensor networks. Certain types of frameworks are identified, such as behaviour-based and certificate-based, according to their scope, purpose and admissible types of evidence. The review is complemented by a comparative study built both on criteria specific to each category and on common criteria, grouped into three distinct classes: supported trust characteristics, complexity and requirements and deployment complexity and flexibility. We then present a trust establishment framework targeted for sensor networks that combines aspects from the two alternative approaches on trust establishment on common evaluation metrics, so that it can uniformly support the needs of nodes with highly diverse network roles and capabilities.

Abstract:
Wireless sensor networks highly depend on the distributed cooperation among network nodes. Trust establishment frameworks provide the means for representing, evaluating, maintaining and distributing trust within the network, and serve as the basis for higher level security services. In this paper, we propose a trust establishment framework targeted sensor networks that can uniformly support the needs of nodes with highly diverse network roles and capabilities, by exploiting the pre-deployment knowledge on the network topology and the information flows. The framework allows for flexibility by combining aspects from alternative approaches on trust establishment on common evaluation metrics, and enables controlled trust evolution based on the network pre-configuration.