bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Constructing the local woman peacebuilder in the Women, Peace and Security agenda: Iraqi women’s participation in local peacebuilding programmes
Authors: Chilmeran Yasmin
Published: July 2024

The ‘local’ as a site of peacebuilding and as a subject position has played a significant role in scholarly debates on peacebuilding and international intervention, and increasingly so in work on the implementation of the Women, Peace and Security agenda. Local women are called upon to represent the conflict experience, and localisation of the Women, Peace and Security agenda is becoming part of the rhetoric around implementation. This article examines the impacts of this focus with reference to peacebuilding and women’s inclusion initiatives in Iraq in locations previously held by the Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant. The article analyses three programmatic case studies situated in Ninewa, a governorate in northern Iraq. The analysis offers a four-part typology of local women participants – local women as peacebuilders, a-political (and a-sectarian), non-elite and intermediary – and uses these types to explore how the participation and presence of local women is constructed within peacebuilding programming. By introducing these types, this article makes visible the practical and conceptual impact of the focus on the ‘local’ on the Women, Peace and Security agenda, its implementation in post-conflict contexts, and on how local women and their contributions are perceived in Women, Peace and Security-focused peacebuilding interventions.
Science of left ventricular unloading
Authors: Meani Paolo , Todaro Serena , Veronese Giacomo , Kowalewski Mariusz , Montisci Andrea , Protti Ilaria , Marchese Giuseppe , Meuwese Christiaan , Lorusso Roberto , Pappalardo Federico
Published: July 2024

The concept of left ventricular unloading has its foundation in heart physiology. In fact, the left ventricular mechanics and energetics represent the cornerstone of this approach. The novel sophisticated therapies for acute heart failure, particularly mechanical circulatory supports, strongly impact on the mechanical functioning and energy consuption of the heart, ultimately affecting left ventricle loading. Notably, extracorporeal circulatory life support which is implemented for life-threatening conditions, may even overload the left heart, requiring additional unloading strategies. As a consequence, the understanding of ventricular overload, and the associated potential unloading strategies, founds its utility in several aspects of day-by-day clinical practice. Emerging clinical and pre-clinical research on left ventricular unloading and its benefits in heart failure and recovery has been conducted, providing meaningful insights for therapeutical interventions. Here, we review the current knowledge on left ventricular unloading, from physiology and molecular biology to its application in heart failure and recovery.
Exploring ischemic core growth rate and endovascular therapy benefit in large core patients
Authors: Lin Longting , Wang Yueming , Chen Chushuang , Bivard Andrew , Butcher Kenneth , Garcia-Esperon Carlos , Spratt Neil J , Levi Christopher R , Cheng Xin , Dong Qiang , Parsons Mark W ,   on behalf of INSPIRE study group
Published: July 2024

After stroke onset, ischemic brain tissue will progress to infarction unless blood flow is restored. Core growth rate measures the infarction speed from stroke onset. This multicenter cohort study aimed to explore whether core growth rate influences benefit from the reperfusion treatment of endovascular thrombectomy in large ischemic core stroke patients. It identified 134 patients with large core volume >70 mL assessed on brain perfusion image within 9 hours of stroke onset. Of 134 patients, 71 received endovascular thrombectomy and 63 did not receive the treatment. Overall, poor outcomes were frequent, with 3-month severed disability or death rate at 56% in treatment group and 68% in no treatment group (p = 0.156). Patients were then stratified by core growth rate. For patients with ‘ultrafast core growth’ of >70 mL/hour, rates of poor outcome were especially high in patients without endovascular thrombectomy (n = 13/14, 93%) and relatively lower in patients received the treatment (n = 12/20, 60%, p = 0.033). In contrast, for patients with core growth rate <70 mL/hour, there was not a large difference in poor outcomes between patients with and without the treatment (55% vs. 61%, p = 0.522). Therefore, patients with ‘ultrafast core growth’ might stand to benefit the most from endovascular treatment.
Assessing Decision Fatigue in General Practitioners’ Prescribing Decisions Using the Australian BEACH Data Set
Authors: Maier Mona , Powell Daniel , Harrison Christopher , Gordon Julie , Murchie Peter , Allan Julia L.
Published: July 2024

Background

General practitioners (GPs) make numerous care decisions throughout their workdays. Extended periods of decision making can result in decision fatigue, a gradual shift toward decisions that are less cognitively effortful. This study examines whether observed patterns in GPs’ prescribing decisions are consistent with the decision fatigue phenomenon. We hypothesized that the likelihood of prescribing frequently overprescribed medications (antibiotics, benzodiazepines, opioids; less effortful to prescribe) will increase and the likelihood of prescribing frequently underprescribed medications (statins, osteoporosis medications; more effortful to prescribe) will decrease over the workday.

Methods

This study used nationally representative primary care data on GP-patient encounters from the Bettering the Evaluation and Care of Health program from Australia. The association between prescribing decisions and order of patient encounters over a GP’s workday was assessed with generalized linear mixed models accounting for clustering and adjusting for patient, provider, and encounter characteristics.

Results

Among 262,456 encounters recorded by 2,909 GPs, the odds of prescribing antibiotics significantly increased by 8.7% with 15 additional patient encounters (odds ratio [OR] = 1.087; confidence interval [CI] = 1.059–1.116). The odds of prescribing decreased significantly with 15 additional patient encounters by 6.3% for benzodiazepines (OR = 0.937; CI = 0.893–0.983), 21.9% for statins (OR = 0.791; CI = 0.753–0.831), and 25.0% for osteoporosis medications (OR = 0.750; CI = 0.690–0.814). No significant effects were observed for opioids. All findings were replicated in confirmatory analyses except the effect of benzodiazepines.

Conclusions

GPs were increasingly likely to prescribe antibiotics and were less likely to prescribe statins and osteoporosis medications as the workday wore on, which was consistent with decision fatigue. There was no convincing evidence of decision fatigue effects in the prescribing of opioids or benzodiazepines. These findings establish decision fatigue as a promising target for optimizing prescribing behavior.

Highlights

We found that as general practitioners progress through their workday, they become more likely to prescribe antibiotics that are reportedly overprescribed and less likely to prescribe statins and osteoporosis medications that are reportedly underprescribed. This change in decision making over time is consistent with the decision fatigue phenomenon. Decision fatigue occurs when we make many decisions without taking a rest break. As we make those decisions, we become gradually more likely to make decisions that are less difficult. The findings of this study show that decision fatigue is a possible target for improving guideline-compliant prescribing of pharmacologic medications.
Meningoencephalomyelitis and brachial plexitis in a dog infected with louping ill virus
Authors: Fingerhood Sai , Mansfield Karen L. , Folly Arran J. , Gomez Vitores Ana , Rocchi Mara , Clarke Dominic , Gola Cecilia
Published: July 2024

A foxhound from a hunting kennel in the United Kingdom was euthanized after being hospitalized with progressive neurologic signs, including tremors, seizures, and obtunded mentation. No abnormalities were appreciated on gross postmortem examination. Histologically, severe meningoencephalomyelitis and mild neuritis of the brachial plexus were present. Molecular analysis of brain tissue detected louping ill virus. In addition, louping ill virus-specific antigens were detected in neurons within the brainstem, the entire length of the spinal cord, as well as in rare cells in the brachial plexus using immunohistochemistry. The genetic sequence of the virus appears most closely related to a previously detected virus in a dog from a similar geographic location in 2015. This is the first characterization of the inflammatory lesions and viral distribution of louping ill virus in a naturally infected dog within the spinal cord and brachial plexus.
Characterisation of iron ore sinter products with varying binary basicity (CaO/SiO2) from 1.5 to 2.7
Authors: Wei Liu , Yang Congcong , Zhu Deqing , Pan Jian , Guo Zhengqi , Xia Guanghui , Qu Shijuan
Published: July 2024

Iron ore sinter is one of most extensively utilised ferrous burdens for blast furnace (BF) worldwide. The sinter quality greatly depends on the microstructure and chemical compositions of calcium ferrites which is significantly affected by sinter basicity (mass ratio of CaO to SiO2). The characterisation of iron ore sinter products with varying binary basicity (CaO/SiO2) from 1.5 to 2.7 was studied by using optical microscopy and scanning electron microscopy-energy spectrometer (SEM-EDS). The results show that the change of sinter basicity changes the microstructure and composition of silico-ferrite of calcium and aluminium (SFCA), and more dendritic shape composite calcium ferrite (SFCA) with Fe-rich/low-Si is generated. Under the optical microscope, statistical results of the sinter reveal that with the increase in basicity, the aspect ratio of calcium ferrite increases from 2.35 to 7.69, indicating a gradual refinement of the crystals. Moreover, the distribution of crystals becomes more uniform, and the size of pores between crystals also decreases gradually, thereby the mechanical properties of the sinter from a microscopic structural perspective being enhanced. SEM-EDS analysis studies have found a certain linear relationship between the aspect ratio of SFCA and its iron content, where higher iron content in SFCA leads to finer and narrower SFCA formations. Additionally, an increase in basicity favours the generation of more composite calcium ferrite (SFCA) with Fe-rich/low-Si characteristics, which significantly improves the reducibility of the sinter. Moreover, what is even more interesting is that the iron content in SFCA shows an inverse relationship with the content of silicon, calcium and aluminium elements, yet it is directly proportional to the quaternary basicity [(CaO + MgO)/(SiO2 + Al2O3)] in SFCA.
Serpentinised olivine used in tundish refractory working layer: A source of blowhole defect in steel billets
Authors: Zarezadeh Ehsan , Nouri-Khezrabad Mohsen , Bahamirian Milad
Published: July 2024

In this research, the effect of different types of commercial tundish refractory working layers (gunning mix, prefabricated board (PB), and dry mix) on the formation of blowhole defect in continuous casting steel billets was investigated. To protect the tundish body, three refractory layers are applied on its metallic shell including a safety layer, a permanent layer, and a working layer. Due to the direct contact of molten metal and slag with the tundish working layer, this layer plays an important role in guaranteeing the quality of steel. In the current research, the amount of molten metal hydrogen pick-up due to contact with the abovementioned tundish working layers was measured by a Hydris device. The hydrogen content of all the melts increased after transferring from ladle to tundish, but the rising rate strongly depended on the type of tundish working layer with PB having a minimum amount of hydrogen pick-up. To characterise the working layers, their chemical and mineralogical composition as well as their thermal behaviour up to 1400 °C were evaluated using X-ray fluorescence, X-ray diffraction, and thermogravimetry-differential scanning calorimetry techniques. The results showed that olivine is a main constituent of all the working layers. Also, the amount and quality of olivine (especially the amount of its serpentinization) have a great effect on the formation of blowhole defects in the steel billets.
Attenuation of sound signals in foams for the basic oxygen furnace using physical modelling techniques
Authors: Heenatimulla Jason , Brooks Geoffrey , Dunn Michelle , Sly David , Snashall Rod , Leung Wang
Published: July 2024

The control of slag foaming is important for optimising basic oxygen furnace (BOF) performance. Acoustics systems monitoring wide frequency bandwidths have been applied to BOF monitoring for the purpose of understanding slag foam height and density but there is limited information about their accuracy and repeatability. Improved understanding of the fundamental behaviour of sound in slag foam could help resolve these issues. In this cold physical model study using, aqueous foams generated in a cylindrical vessel were used to study the attenuation of sound in large samples of foam. Sound pulses over the range of 201 to 1801 Hz were transmitted through varying aqueous foam heights of 100 to 250 mm and acoustic signals detected via a measurement microphone were analysed. The results indicated aqueous foams consisting of smaller bubbles in the range of 0.4 to 0.75 mm with visibly thicker outer films displayed a stronger correlation between the attenuated sound and the stationary foam heights. It was also observed that frequencies above 1009 Hz were more sensitive in terms of their attenuation in varying foam heights and the time-dependant drainage of bubbles compared to lower frequencies. These frequencies were generally higher than those used for industrial slag foam monitoring systems.
A VR-based practice cultivation mode for mechanical engineering graduates to enhance complex engineering abilities
Authors: Xie Jiacheng , Wang Yirong , Wang Xuewen , Li Juanli
Published: July 2024

This study proposes a virtual reality (VR)-based teaching platform for engineering graduate students specializing in heavy equipment. It addresses the challenges of separating theoretical teaching from practical applications and ensures safe practices. The platform facilitates six key processes: VR teaching, VR practice, prototype production, VR monitoring and development, theoretical model establishment, and industrial applications. This approach enables students to become familiar with various processes, including teaching, practical experience, and scientific research applications. A production-study-research-use framework is used to improve the quality of graduate student education and enhance collaboration between educators, students, and enterprises in completing engineering and research projects. Long-term observations demonstrate significant enhancements in the graduate students’ practical abilities, basic skills, and multidisciplinary design. Moreover, the platform effectively addresses key challenges in intelligent coal mining, providing a solution to the separation of teaching, practice, and scientific research, surpassing traditional teaching methods.
Implementing constraint-induced movement therapy into practice in sub-acute stroke: Experiences and perceptions of stroke survivors and therapists
Authors: Jarvis Kathryn A , Edelstyn Nicola MJ , Hunter Susan M
Published: July 2024

Introduction:

Constraint-induced movement therapy has been shown to be effective in a sub-group of sub-acute stroke survivors but has not been widely implemented in the United Kingdom. This study explored therapist and stroke survivor perceptions and experiences of constraint-induced movement therapy and explored the non-agreement (incongruence) and agreement (congruence) of these perspectives.

Method:

Consenting occupational therapists ( n = 3) and physiotherapist ( n = 5) participated in a focus group discussion. Four-stroke survivors undertook pre- and post-constraint-induced movement therapy interviews. Stroke survivor participants selected and undertook an evidence-based constraint-induced movement therapy protocol. Focus groups and interview audio recordings were independently analysed thematically. Therapist and stroke survivor views were subsequently synthesised using meta-ethnographic principles.

Findings:

Four over-arching themes were identified: motivation and determination to participate in constraint-induced movement therapy; who benefits; which protocol; making constraint-induced movement therapy feasible. The final over-arching theme comprised five sub-themes: fatigue and sleep; pain; transport; need for support; training, support and mentorship for therapists. Stroke survivors and therapists held contrasting views on three themes.

Conclusion:

Participating stroke survivors successfully undertook a self-selected, evidence-based constraint-induced movement therapy protocol. The identified enablers and barriers should inform future constraint-induced movement therapy protocol development. The contrasting views held by therapists and stroke survivors reinforce the need for collaborative communication and opportunity for choice during constraint-induced movement therapy.
Reduced scale test bench for investigating the upward flame heat impact on external thermal insulation composite system facades
Authors: Tang Mingwei , Rogaume Thomas , Batiot Benjamin , Bensabath Tsilla , Bourbigot Serge
Published: July 2024

The project aimed to develop a reduced scale test protocol designed to be repeatable and capable of providing the upward fire evaluation for assessing fire risk on external thermal insulation composite system facade samples. The variation of heat flux is simulated by radiant panel. This experimental setup permits the recording of dynamic variables in flame propagation, such as ignition time, flame extinguishing time, and variations in both surface and back temperatures of the insulation panel. Notably, the measurement of back temperature provides a means to assess the thermal insulation efficiency of the external thermal insulation composite system facade. Furthermore, the fire spreading temperature is collected during the test could also be useful for larger-scale testing.
A Mobile Contextualized Educational Game Framework With ChatGPT Interactive Scaffolding for Employee Ethics Training
Authors: Chen Yu-Chi , Hou Huei-Tse
Published: July 2024

Technologies like ChatGPT and other AI tools have impacted learning by giving students more chances to ask questions and explore knowledge. The inclusion of Non-Player Characters (NPCs) as scaffolding in game-based situated learning activities can have a positive impact on learning. The application of ChatGPT to role-playing has potential; therefore, this study designed a “ChatGPT-based NPCs scaffolding Workflow Framework” and used it as the basis for designing and evaluating an educational game for employee ethics training with empirical evidence. This study had 61 participants, divided into a document scaffolding group ( n = 32) and a ChatGPT-based NPC group ( n = 29) and examined the learning achievement, flow, motivation, and anxiety in the two groups. The results showed that the designs of both groups benefited learning achievement, and both groups could maintain a certain level of high motivation and engagement. Through qualitatively analyzing the content of students’ discussions with NPCs, it was found that there is potential for NPC-assisted learning through ChatGPT. Overall, this study explored the efficacy and limitations of using ChatGPT-based NPCs as scaffolding in game-based learning and found that it is extensible. We also present a framework for the design of ChatGPT-based NPCs scaffolding mechanism.
Balancing news? Framing of threat and efficacy in leading Pakistani newspapers’ coverage of climate change
Authors: Hussain Mudassar
Published: July 2024

The study in hand quantitatively content analyzes the news frames in the leading Pakistani Urdu language and English language newspapers for 3 years. The study contributes to the theory of framing and the extended parallel process model. English language newspapers in comparison to Urdu language dailies in Pakistan had somewhat responsibly communicated the risk of climate change by covering both the effects of climate change and the climate efficacy.
Changing Intention to Participate in Adult Education and Training in Norway: Compositional and Motivational Factors
Authors: Ingelsrud Mari Holm , Dahl Elin Moen
Published: July 2024

Western governments propose adult education and training (AET) as a prerequisite for all employees to solve current challenges related to globalization, climate change, automation and the ageing workforce. This study examines the trend in Norwegian employees’ intention to participate in AET from 2010 to 2022. Building on the comprehensive lifelong learning participation model (CLLPM), we conduct logistic regression analyses of 10 waves of a nationally representative cross-sectional survey ( N = 26,588). We find a declining trend in the intention to participate in AET. The results show that the trend cannot be explained by socio-demographic workforce changes, as it is present in all age categories and levels of education. Motivational factors such as job insecurity, employability, wage satisfaction and desire for more challenges only explain some of the decline. We discuss the findings considering the CLLPM and contribute to the current academic debate on lifelong learning in the employability regime.
Invoking the Divine on the Path to Inclusive Education: India’s Contextual Realities
Authors: Balasubramanian Lakshmi , Banerjee Ipshita
Published: July 2024

Understanding inclusive education challenges in India involves acknowledging the complex linguistic, cultural, religious, and caste-based diversity affecting marginalized groups. Ambiguity surrounds implementing the inclusion concept, necessitating critical evaluation and adaptation to align with India’s unique dynamics. Despite increased enrollment (61%), concerns persist about omitting some children from inclusive education benefits, suggesting exclusivity. The 2020 National Education Policy aims for equitable opportunities, but challenges remain in implementation and access. Interchangeable terms (e.g., inclusion vs. integration) and a lack of differentiation hinder progress. Robust research on classroom practices is vital to establish effective strategies, support families, and address diverse student needs. This multifaceted issue requires consideration of India-specific contexts. India’s interpretation of inclusive education varies based on disability severity, and solutions should account for political, historical, and cultural contexts and the beliefs and experiences of disabled individuals.
“How Do I Practise Palliative Care When I Don’t Know How?” Exploring the Impact of EPAN, An Online Educational Intervention on General Nurses in Singapore: An Evaluation Study
Authors: Neo Yi Ling , Hassan Norasyikin , Koh Jemima , Alias Rasidah , Wang Liyun , Hussein Yazid , Wong Yoke Ping
Published: July 2024

Objective(s): The majority of deaths in Singapore (62.1%) occur in the hospital, but most nurses do not have palliative care (PC) education. An online e-learning course, “Essential Palliative Care Approach for Nurses” (EPAN), was developed to close the learning gap. The study aimed to evaluate the impact of EPAN on general nurses’ knowledge, confidence, and attitude in delivering end-of-life care. Methods: Convergent parallel mixed methods design. Results: 1708 nurses (67%), mostly from inpatient and ambulatory settings, completed EPAN. Statistically significant increases in mean scores across knowledge, confidence, and attitude (p < 0.05) remained consistent immediately post-course and 3 months post-course. Respondents shared their intentions to change practice in the immediate post-course survey (n = 1155) and how they have practiced end-of-life care in the 3-month post-course survey (n = 777). Major categories from the content analysis included: (i) actualise confidence to deliver effective communication, (ii) making time and showing empathy in end-of-life care, (iii) advocating for end-of-life care, (iv) proactive collaboration with other healthcare professionals, (v) navigated and accepted end-of-life boundaries, and (vi) able to self-manage emotions. Conclusions: EPAN, developed within an Asian context, has demonstrated a significant impact on nurses’ knowledge, confidence, and attitude in delivering end-of-life care. This has broader implications for general palliative care education in countries of similar cultural concerns.
Naval financing and supplies in Cartagena de Indias during the eighteenth century
Authors: Álvarez José Manuel Serrano
Published: July 2024

This article analyses the role of the naval system of Cartagena de Indias during the eighteenth century, especially the elements related to its financing and supply needs. Cartagena was the most important naval base in the southern Caribbean, and this made it necessary to deploy a coastguard system that was capable of curbing smuggling and, at the same time, reinforcing coastal surveillance.
Factors Influencing Novice and Beginner Nurses’ Intention to Report Medication Errors and Near Misses
Authors: Braiki Raouaa , Douville Frédéric , Gagnon Marie-Pierre
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Novice and beginner nurses make more medical errors than senior nurses. However, there is significant underreporting of medication errors and near misses among novice and beginner nurses.

Objective

To identify the factors that influence the intention of novice and beginner nurses to report medication errors and near misses.

Methods

A cross-sectional exploratory study was carried out among third-year nursing students in a Quebec university (n = 143). Data was collected through a self-reported questionnaire based on the adapted Theory of Planned Behavior. Simple descriptive analyses and a series of contingency analyses were performed using Chi-2 or Fisher exact tests. Correction of multiple tests was done using Bonferroni test.

Results

All theoretical constructs were significantly associated with intention. Sociodemographic factors (age, sex, experience and education program) were also associated with intention.

Discussion and conclusion

Further studies are needed to identify the determinants of intention to report medication errors and near misses among novice and beginner nurses. More attention is required in nursing practice and education to act on these factors, thus encouraging novice and beginner nurses to report medication errors and near misses.
Optimization of PID controller for stepper motor speed control system based on improved sparrow search algorithm
Authors: Zhang Mingfeng , Xu Chuntian , Li Lin , Wang Zihuimin , Zong Xu
Published: July 2024

To improve the control accuracy of the stepper motor, a PID controller based on an improved sparrow search algorithm (ISSA-PID) is designed to improve the response speed as well as the robustness of the closed-loop speed control of the stepper motor by optimizing the position update formula and the step size control parameters based on the sparrow search algorithm. ISSA-PID is applied to the stepper motor speed control system in Matlab and tested by Ramp-up Load and applying perturbation simulation respectively. By comparing with traditional PID, Differential Evolution algorithm PID controller, Particle Swarm Optimization algorithm PID controller, and Ant Lion Optimization algorithm PID controller, the results show that ISSA-PID not only improves the convergence speed and accuracy but also performs better in terms of stability. Finally, the experimental platform of the stepper motor speed control system is built to experimentally verify the performance of the ISSA-PID controller, and the experimental results show that ISSA-PID has stronger robustness and faster response speed compared with the remaining four controllers.
Analysis investigation of the influence of sub-surface shear stress distribution of spur gear
Authors: Liu Wenzheng , Zhu Rupeng , Zhou Wenguang , Wang Jingjing
Published: July 2024

Spur gears endure contact fatigue loads that can lead to surface damage on the gear teeth. Contact fatigue typically arises from dedendum during engineering and experiments, primarily caused by maximum sub-surface shear stress. This study presents a contact model incorporating profile-shift to examine sub-surface shear stress in relation to the occurrence of tooth root pits. Accurate calculations are performed to determine the distribution of sub-surface stress and meshing duration, considering various modification coefficients. The geometric cause affecting the shear stress near the tooth root is found. A deviation coefficient from base circle is proposed to analyze the influence of modification coefficient and pressure angle, which can be used in design reference. The investigation comprehensively explores the effects of profile-shift and pressure angle of spur gears on stress distribution.
Investigation on mechanical properties of bronze infill PLA composite fabricated by fused deposition modelling
Authors: Ravi Kumar K. , Sivavel Annamalai K. , Sriram H. , Soms Nisha
Published: July 2024

This study is on the mechanical properties of bronze infill poly lactic acid composites fabricated by fused deposition modelling. By changing the nozzle temperature, printing speed, layer thickness and infill density the mechanical properties of the composites were studied. Tensile, flexural and impact strength tests were conducted on the composite specimen. Mathematical models were developed using response surface methodology and the significance of the models was tested using analysis of variance. Increase in infill density and nozzle temperature increased the strengths of the composites. Increase in layer thickness and printing speed decreased the strengths of the composite specimen. Tensile strength is primarily influenced by infill density (38.82%), flexural strength is primarily influenced by Nozzle Temperature contributes (44.02%) while Infill density (58.12%) plays the major role in contributing the impact strength followed by other parameters. The highest tensile strength, flexural strength, impact strength values obtained in this study are 19.3 (N/mm2), 36.08 (N/mm2) and 0.26 (kJ/m2) respectively. The mechanism of the fractured specimen was investigated using scanning electron microscopy. Fracture mechanisms such as cracks, infill gaps, voids, interface, delamination, hillocks, particle pull out, delamination had an effect on the fracture of composite specimens.
A novel harmonic drive with the full conjugate tooth profile
Authors: Xie Ran , Yang Yuhu , Zhou Guocheng , Gao Ben , Jiao Yunlei , Yu Ruijiang
Published: July 2024

This paper presents an approach for designing a novel tooth profile of harmonic drives, which is composed of two pieces of curves, hypocycloid and epicycloid, generated by the rolling circles with appropriate radii. Compared with the conventional double-circular-arc or cycloidal tooth profile of harmonic drives, the tooth profile is characterized by full conjugation, more number of engaged teeth, and can be expressed analytically, etc. Firstly, the generation of the cycloids are briefly described, and then their conjugate criterion is investigated systematically based on Camus’s theorem. Secondly, the tooth profile equations for the circular spline and flexspline are established and the deformed neutral curve equation is derived. Next, the contact properties among the tooth profiles, including the line of action, meshing angle, etc., are studied systematically. Finally, a finite element model and a physical prototype for the harmonic drive with the tooth profile are developed, respectively. The effectiveness of the design method is verified by the contact performances simulation. The research may provide a new thought for the innovative design of harmonic drives with full conjugate tooth profile.
Experimental and finite element analysis of surface asperity geometry during the running-in phase of rolling contact
Authors: Mohd Yusof Nurul Farhana , Mohd Ripin Zaidi
Published: July 2024

This paper presents the experimental and finite element analysis of surface asperity geometry during the running-in phase of rolling contact. Previous research efforts typically relied on simulating various shapes of asperity geometry to elucidate rough surface characteristics. However, this approximation did not accurately represent the actual surface asperities. In this study, a rolling contact rig was fabricated, and periodic surface scans were utilized to track the deformation of roller surface asperities. The experimental findings reveal a notable 69% reduction in surface roughness throughout the running-in phase, alongside showcasing the deformation of asperity geometry. Subsequently, a simulation model is developed using data derived from these experiments. Stress analysis conducted on individual and multiple asperities illustrates a decrease in contact stress over time, indicating a transition in contact behavior from plastic to elastic. Furthermore, simulations involving multiple asperities demonstrate an expansion in contact length as roughness diminishes with increasing cycles. Initially, only the highest peaks of asperities make contact, resulting in elevated contact stress. However, as rolling cycles progress, a greater number of asperities come into contact, leading to a more uniform distribution of load. Notably, the more prominent asperities endure significant contact stress and deformation compared to their smaller counterparts.
Experimental and numerical investigation of monolithic and homo-stacked target plates of AA2014-T6 subjected to blunt and hemispherical projectiles
Authors: Pandouria Anoop Kumar , Kumar Rohit , Yadav Kuldeep , Chakraborty Purnashis , Tiwari Vikrant
Published: July 2024

In this article, the ballistic response of thin sheets of the aluminium AA2014-T6 in monolithic and homo-stacked configurations was studied experimentally and numerically. Firstly, the experiments were performed on 1 and 2 mm thick monolithic and 1 + 1 mm homo-stacked target plates with blunt and hemispherical nose shape projectiles at different velocities. All experiments were carried out using a single stage gas gun coupled with two ultra-high-speed cameras. Transient response and full-field out-of-plane displacement of the target plates are analysed using 3D digital image correlation technique (3D-DIC). During the investigations the nose shapes of the projectile were found to have a significant influence on both out-of-plane displacement and failure mode of the impacted plates. The target plate is penetrated by shear plugging in the event of a blunt projectile, whereas for a hemispherical projectile impact, penetration occurred from first tensile stretching and then shear plugging. It was also found that the ejected plug and hole size are almost the same and equal to the projectile’s diameter for blunt projectiles. While in case of hemispherical impact both were less than the projectile’s diameter. Secondly, 3D FE simulations for all the configurations were also performed using J-C plasticity and damage criteria. The simulation results were found to be in accordance with the experimental results in terms of failure mode, ejected plug size and plate hole size. Detailed Russel error analysis was also performed to validate the correlation between the experimental and numerical data.
A knowledge-based fault diagnosis method for rolling bearings without fault sample training
Authors: Chen Zhuoxiang , Zhang Qing , Zhang Jianqun , Qin Xianrong , Sun Yuantao
Published: July 2024

Rolling bearings are indispensable components of many engineering machinery, especially rotating machinery. If rolling bearing faults are not diagnosed promptly, it may cause huge economic losses. Bearing fault diagnosis can avoid catastrophic accidents, ensure the reliability of equipment operation, and reduce maintenance costs. Existing intelligent bearing fault diagnosis methods have fast diagnosis speeds and excellent fault recognition capabilities, which is not feasible for most important mechanical devices because of the difficulty in obtaining fault samples for training. To tackle this problem, a two-stage bearing fault diagnosis method without fault sample training based on fault feature knowledge is proposed. In the first stage, a fault detection vector is constructed based on signal statistical indicators. The Mahalanobis distance of the feature vector between online signals and historical normal signals serves for anomaly detection. In the second stage, based on the bearing fault knowledge, envelope spectrum fault indicators are proposed to form diagnosis vectors. By calculating the similarity between the diagnosis vector and the present fault label, the probability of different fault types will be obtained. Three experimental analyses show that the method is effective in detecting early faults and achieves high fault identification accuracy. The above results advantageously prove that the method can be used for fault diagnosis without fault sample training, and has the possibility of practical application.
Design and optimization of acoustic packages using RSM coupled with range analysis
Authors: Zhang Zhifei , Yang Wencheng , Cao Sishi , Luo Xuhui
Published: July 2024

Acoustic packages are commonly used to reduce the mid-high frequency noise in the automobile, but fully characterizing their absorption and insulation mechanisms poses challenges. Introducing a data-driven approach to analyze their performance, existing research lacks clarity on the factors influencing acoustic package efficacy when constructing approximate models. To alleviate this, a method of optimizing the acoustic package by combining range analysis with a Response Surface Methodology (RSM) model is proposed in this paper. Initially, a validated Statistical Energy Analysis (SEA) model predicts automobile interior noise, pinpointing the dash panel as a key component for optimization through contribution analysis. Then, acoustic material tests are conducted to design the acoustic package. To compare the design scheme and the original scheme for the acoustic package in the automobile, the simulation and the test of the automobile ATF are performed and the automobile SEA model is verified through the test. Based on the range analysis, an RSM model is developed with the significant factors as input and the sound pressure level (SPL) of the driver’s head acoustic cavity as output. Genetic algorithm optimization is finally performed to obtain the optimized scheme within constrained thickness and weight. The results reveal that the acoustic package optimized scheme effectively improves the noise reduction effect in the mid-frequency range and decreases the weight of the acoustic package, which promotes the comprehensive performance of the acoustic package.
Energy recovery and ride comfort analysis of mechanical-electrical-hydraulic regenerative suspension system for tracked vehicle
Authors: Zhang Weijie , Guo Yong , Wang Guosheng , Ling Qihui , Chen Zhewu
Published: July 2024

A novel mechanical-electrical-hydraulic regenerative suspension system (MEH-RSS) suitable for tracked vehicles is proposed to improve the ride comfort of tracked vehicles while efficiently recovering the suspension vibration energy and improving the suspension working reliability. The dynamical model considering the dynamic damping coefficient of the MEH-RSS is established and the ride comfort analysis of tracked vehicle is carried out to verify the vibration reduction performance of the MEH-RSS. A simulated test of the energy recovery module is designed based on the bidirectional energy management control strategy, and the results show that the MEH-RSS can achieve semi-active damping force adjustment function and efficient energy recovery. The simulation results of a single bogie wheel 2-DOF model show that the damping coefficient of the MEH-RSS can adapt to the changes in road excitation characteristics, and semi-active control function can be achieved by adjusting the external resistance. The average energy recovery power of 4442 W can be reached on E-class off-road with a driving velocity of 10 m/s. The half vehicle 8-DOF model simulation results show that under passive working conditions, the root-mean-square (RMS) value of the vertical acceleration of a tracked vehicle equipped with MEH-RSS is reduced by 5.7% relative to that of a tracked vehicle equipped with traditional passive suspension (TPS) on E-class off-road. The MEH-RSS can effectively improve the ride comfort of tracked vehicles while achieving vibration energy recovery.
Research on multi-objective control strategy of thermal management system of pure electric vehicle at low temperature based on Q-learning algorithm
Authors: Zhan Sen , Huang Yu , Li Fei , Yin Yanli , Liu Chunsheng
Published: July 2024

In low-temperature conditions, a reasonable control strategy for thermal management systems can effectively alleviate range anxiety in pure electric vehicles and improve their adaptability to various working conditions. To further enhance the adaptability of thermal management system control strategies in different working conditions, this paper proposes a multi-objective control strategy based on Q-learning algorithm. Firstly, a pure electric vehicle model based on power-thermal coupling is established. The accuracy of the model is validated by comparing the simulation results from combined Amesim and Matlab/Simulink simulations with experimental data. Secondly, taking into consideration the factors such as vehicle economy, powertrain performance, and cabin comfort, a novel control strategy utilizing the Q-learning algorithm for the thermal management system of pure electric vehicle is developed. Finally, the efficacy of Q-learning control strategy is analyzed by simulations conducted under NEDC and WLTC conditions, with an initial temperature of −20°C. The results showed that, compared to the rule-based control strategy in WLTC and NEDC working conditions, the comprehensive improvement effect of Q-learning control strategy is 9.35% and 10.76% respectively. Moreover, the Q-learning control strategy achieves 94.25% and 90.19% of the global optimal control effect obtained through DP. The results indicate that the proposed control strategy has good adaptability to different working conditions.
Aerodynamic performance and flow optimization of axial fan based on the neural network and genetic algorithm
Authors: Sun Tianyi , Wu Xiaoming , Mao Kejun , Wang Zhengdao , Yang Hui , Wei Yikun
Published: July 2024

The blades of an axial fan are optimized using artificial neural networks and genetic algorithms in this paper. In first, a parametric axial fan blade model is established with constraints imposed on several parameters. The chord length, maximum camber, maximum camber position, blade thickness, and airfoil stagger angle are considered as an optimization parameter of axial fan. The static pressure efficiency and static pressure of axial fan are regarded as the optimization objectives. An optimization calculation of an axial fan blade is carried out based on the combination of artificial neural network and genetic algorithm. The objective aim of optimization is to improve the static pressure efficiency, the static pressure of axial fan and to reduce the flow loss of axial fan. Numerical results of axial fan demonstrate that the pressure distribution gradient and turbulent kinetic energy contour maps of the optimized axial fan are effectively suppressed within the impeller region compared with that of original axial fan. Furthermore, the internal flow stability of the optimized axial fan also is significantly improved by studying the pressure fluctuation and the Fast Fourier Transform (FFT) of pressure fluctuation. Experimental results of axial fan aerodynamic performance further demonstrate that the static pressure of the optimized axial fan rises as much as 90.93 Pa and the improved static pressure efficiency is effectively improved as much as 7.43% at the design flow rates compared with that of the original axial fan. The application of optimized axial flow fans is of great significance in energy-saving of energy equipment.
Can psychology learn from the natural sciences?
Authors: Gigerenzer Gerd
Published: July 2024

I argue that psychology can learn from the natural sciences and focus on the weight that physics attributes to precise theories. Much of psychology can be increasingly characterized by theory aversion—yet not the kind motivated by positivism. Theory aversion in psychology arises from a conflict between two desires: to come up with a theory, and to avoid the necessary mental effort and time as well as the risk of refutation. The results are ersatz theories, or surrogates. I outline three common, but independent, research practices that avoid building precise theories of psychological processes: the null ritual, which allows researchers to get away with not specifying their research hypothesis; as-if theories, which refrain from modeling psychological processes; and lists of binary oppositions, as in dual-system theories, which consist of vague dichotomies. Psychologists could learn from physics to walk forward on two feet—theory and experiment—rather than hobble on one.
Science or not, conceptual problems remain: Seeking conceptual clarity around “psychology as a science” debates
Authors: Tafreshi Donna , Slaney Kathleen L.
Published: July 2024

We argue that the question, “Should psychology follow the methods and principles of the natural sciences?” is not one that should be answered by theoretical psychologists or metascientists; rather, we implore psychological researchers themselves to heed Wittgenstein’s observation that a preoccupation with method and principles risks overlooking important conceptual issues, the clarification of which are necessarily antecedent to consideration of empirical activities. We examine potential conceptual problems that arise when psychological researchers attempt to follow natural science methods and principles without first considering the concepts that are relevant to their scientific pursuits. Drawing primarily from the works of Hacker, Lamiell, and Maraun, we argue against the dogmatic following of any methods or sets of principles. Instead, we posit that natural science methods and principles should be considered on a case-by-case basis after relevant psychological concepts have been carefully considered and empirical investigation has been deemed an appropriate path forward.
Mechanism and contextualism in psychology
Authors: Proctor Robert W. , Warren Ashley D.
Published: July 2024

Psychology was established as a separate discipline when it split from philosophy. With the founding of Wundt’s lab and subsequent developments by Külpe, Titchener, and others, psychology was championed initially as a distinct science, in which controlled experiments played a major role. A parallel approach, beginning with Wundt, that eschews causal explanations established through controlled experiments and focuses on qualitative descriptions based on the subjective experiences of individuals, also developed. We describe alternative positions throughout the history of psychology as to whether these approaches accomplish the goals of treating psychology as a natural science. From a historical account, the mechanistic worldview provides a foundation for psychological science, as compared to a contextualistic worldview. We conclude that a mechanistic worldview, as seen in the history of psychology, has appropriate goals for the approach of continuing psychology’s development as a natural science, with the distinction between worldviews remaining a prominent philosophical task.