bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Wheel Wear Modeling and Re-Profiling Strategy Optimization Based on the Maintenance Data of a Three-Axle Bogie Locomotive
Authors: Zeng Yi , Chen Bingzhi , Chi Qingguang , Zhang Xu
Published: July 2024

Wear caused by wheel–rail contact forces is inevitable during vehicle operation, which has an important impact on the security and stability of train operation. Therefore, it is of great significance to study wheel wear patterns and optimize re-profiling strategies to extend service life. Based on the wheel wear data of three-axle bogie locomotives, this paper proposes a data-driven hybrid wheel wear model and optimization schemes of the re-profiling strategy. The wear model consists of a wheel flange thickness wear model, a wheel diameter wear model, and a re-profiling ratio coefficient model. Then, utilizing the above models, the optimization of the re-profiling strategy for different axle position wheels is raised, and the optimization of the complete vehicle re-profiling strategy is presented by considering the wheel diameter difference. Finally, a wheel data-driven analysis platform was developed to enable the management and utilization of wheel maintenance data. Analysis of extensive maintenance data indicates that the guide wheels wear the fastest, approximately 22.2% higher than the middle wheels, which wear the slowest. The re-profiling ratio coefficient model indicates that the ratio coefficient increases as the wheel flange thickness before re-profiling increases. Simulations demonstrate a longer expected wheel life with a flange thickness between 28 and 32.5 mm. Compared to measured values, the optimization strategy reduces complete vehicle re-profiling by 21.5%. Through the initial implementation at CRRC Dalian Locomotive Ltd, it has become evident that this methodology offers a viable solution to enhance the service longevity of locomotive wheels.
Exploring the landscape of urinary tract melanomas: A review for pathologists and clinicians
Authors: Maffei Elisabetta , D’Antonio Antonio , Addesso Maria , Pandolfo Savio Domenico , Verze Paolo , Caputo Alessandro
Published: July 2024

Melanomas originating within the urinary tract represent a rare and clinically challenging subset of malignancies. Despite extensive research on cutaneous melanomas, urinary tract melanomas remain relatively unexplored, presenting diagnostic dilemmas and limited treatment consensus. In this comprehensive review, we synthesize current knowledge on the epidemiology, risk factors, clinical presentation, histopathological characteristics, and treatment strategies specific to this disease. Enhancing clinical awareness, refining diagnostic approaches, and exploring novel therapeutic interventions hold promise for improving outcomes in this challenging malignancy subset.
The Roles of Pedagogical Agent’s Emotional Support: Dynamics Between Emotions and Learning Strategies in Multimedia Learning
Authors: Lang Yueru , Gong Shaoying , Hu Xiangen , Xiao Boyuan , Wang Yanqing , Jiang Tiantian
Published: July 2024

The present research conducted two experiments with an intelligent tutoring system to investigate the overall and dynamic impact of emotional support from a pedagogical agent (PA). In Experiment 1, a single factor intergroup design was used to explore the impact of PA’s emotional support (supportive vs. non-supportive) on learners’ emotions, intrinsic motivation, and learning gain. Sixty participants were recruited and randomly assigned to one of the two conditions. Experiment 2 also conducted a single factor between-subjects design to investigated the dynamic patterns between emotions and learning strategies among 30 participants using lag sequential analysis. Results showed that: Compared with the non-supportive pedagogical agent, the supportive pedagogical agent reduced frustration and improved learning gain, but did not increase intrinsic motivation. In addition, learners with the supportive pedagogical agent used more appropriate strategies after frustration and surprise, and use less ineffective strategies after confusion and enjoyment to avoid reaching a wrong answer. If learners did not receive emotional support in such cases, learning strategies following these emotions were more likely lead to negative cognitive results, or negative emotions tended to appear repeatedly. Instructors or PAs should identify learners’ emotions in time and provide the appropriate emotional support according to learners’ emotions.
Teaching Students to Read: A Call to Action for Social Justice in School Psychology
Authors: Truckenmiller Adrea J. , Barrett Courtenay A. , Hogan Tiffany P.
Published: July 2024

Although the accurate diagnosis and effective instruction for reading disorders through multi-tiered systems of support is one of the most foundational components of school psychology training and practice, there are significant opportunities for innovation, renewed excitement, and social justice. In this article, we identify reading assessments, interventions, and systems-level policies shown to be effective through rigorous, empirical research. These effective practices are not well known by school psychologists or commonly implemented in schools. We propose four areas to better align school psychology training and practice with the most cutting-edge reading research to improve student outcomes in the future: (a) building knowledge of reading development, (b) increasing the commitment to school-based careers, (c) implementing more instructionally-useful reading screening and special education assessment practices (including using the hybrid model of identification), and (d) promoting evidence-based reading instruction and intervention. Throughout each of these four areas, we highlight the need for multi-disciplinary collaboration.
Self-identification and workplace experience surveys for equity and inclusion in healthcare
Authors: Maina Naomi Mumbi , Miled Neila , Crump Melissa
Published: July 2024

Data and evaluation have become integral to efforts aimed at transforming organizational cultures. This is true in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI), where organizations are assessing their employee make-up and the impact of their programs and services on systematically marginalized communities. This article presents a case study of a self-identification and workplace experience survey that was the first of its kind at the Provincial Health Services Authority in British Columbia. With a 30.7% response rate, we share an overview of the survey, lessons learned, and recommendations for other healthcare institutions embarking on their DEI journey. Key takeaways include engaging leaders early and allowing adequate time and resources for planning and executing the survey. Confidentiality is a crucial element to ensure that everyone feels confident to take the survey. Ultimately, adequate implementation of actions from survey results will build trust among staff and advance DEI priorities in organizations.
Predicting Intimate Partner Violence Perpetration Among Young Adults Experiencing Homelessness in Seven U.S. Cities Using Interpretable Machine Learning
Authors: Um Mee Young , Manikonda Lydia , Eapen Doncy J. , Ferguson Kristin M. , Maria Diane M. Santa , Narendorf Sarah C. , Petering Robin , Barman-Adhikari Anamika , Hsu Hsun-Ta
Published: July 2024

Young adults experiencing homelessness (YAEH) are at higher risk for intimate partner violence (IPV) victimization than their housed peers. This is often due to their increased vulnerability to abuse and victimization before and during homelessness, which can result in a cycle of violence in which YAEH also perpetrates IPV. Identifying and addressing factors contributing to IPV perpetration at an early stage can reduce the risk of IPV. Yet to date, research examining YAEH’s IPV perpetration is scarce and has largely employed conventional statistical approaches that are limited in modeling this complex phenomenon. To address these gaps, this study used an interpretable machine learning approach to answer the research question: What are the most salient predictors of IPV perpetration among a large sample of YAEH in seven U.S. cities? Participants ( N = 1,426) on average were 21 years old ( SD = 2.09) and were largely cisgender males (59%) and racially/ethnically diverse (81% were from historically excluded racial/ethnic groups; i.e., African American, Latino/a, American Indian, Asian or Pacific Islander, and mixed race/ethnicity). Over one-quarter (26%) reported IPV victimization, and 20% reported IPV perpetration while homeless. Experiencing IPV victimization while homeless was the most important factor in predicting IPV perpetration. An additional 11 predictors (e.g., faced frequent discrimination) were positively associated with IPV perpetration, whereas 8 predictors (e.g., reported higher scores of mindfulness) were negatively associated. These findings underscore the importance of developing and implementing effective interventions with YAEH that can prevent IPV, particularly those that recognize the positive association between victimization and perpetration experiences.
Research on production of microgroove arrays on TiAl intermetallic alloy by micro milling
Authors: Xia Hongjun , Zhao Guolong , Zhang Yang , Li Liang , He Ning , Hansen Hans Nørgaard
Published: July 2024

TiAl intermetallic alloy is a superior lightweight material with excellent performance, and its micro features or components have promising applications in manufacturing fields. In this work, an investigation of micro milling of microgroove arrays on TiAl alloy was studied. The effects of cutting parameters including the feed per tooth (fz) and depth of cut ( ap) on the milling force, surface morphology, surface roughness and burr size of the micro-slots were investigated. The wear types and mechanisms of the micro end mills were also studied. The results showed that the optimal cutting parameters were fz = 3.5 μm/z and ap = 4 μm, which provided the best surface roughness Sa of 152 nm, top-burr heights on up- and down-milling sides of 19 and 19.5 μm respectively. Using the optimized cutting parameters, microgrooves with a width of 500 μm, aspect ratio of 5 and array period of 10 were fabricated successfully. Surface topography, dimensional accuracy and perpendicularity of the microgroove arrays were characterized. Results demonstrated that an increase in the microgroove number, microgroove edge chipping as well as burrs of the entrance and exit increased gradually. The dimensional error between the obtained width and the designed width of the microgroove was less than 2%, and the slope of the sidewalls reached more than 89°. The wear mechanisms of the micro end mills were abrasive wear and adhesive wear, and wear types were coating delamination, cutting edge chipping, and tool nose breakage.
Effect of clamshell powder on the mechanical and damping properties of epoxy-bamboo composites
Authors: Anand KJ , Ekbote Thippeswamy , Doddamani Saleemsab , Ashoka E
Published: July 2024

Compared to single natural fibre composites, hybridising natural fibres with filler particles presents a promising avenue for enhancing composites physical, mechanical, and damping properties. This study delves into incorporating clamshell powder, a filler derived from clams’ hard protective outer shells, into polymer composites. The focus is on investigating the potential of clamshell powder as a filler material to augment the mechanical and damping properties of epoxy-bamboo mat composites. The weight ratio of clamshell fillers varied from 0% to 9%, and the compression moulding method was used to fabricate the composites. As per ASTM standards, mechanical properties were evaluated by conducting tensile and flexural tests. Free vibration tests by impact hammer technique were employed to evaluate the natural frequency, damping ratio, and mode shapes of developed composites to measure damping properties. Results revealed that adding clamshell filler significantly improved composites tensile strength, flexural strength, and damping properties. The addition of clamshell elevated the tensile strength by 18.5%, and flexural strength by 24.2% for composite with 6 wt% filler, which can be attributed to the efficiency of load transfer and the interfacial bonding between fillers and epoxy matrix. SEM analysis supported the experimental results obtained. The highest damping value is received for 9 wt% filler, showing 30% enhancement compared to composites without clamshell filler. Modal analyses using ANSYS software further validated the positive impact of clamshell filler. This study underscores the potential of clamshell filler in enhancing the mechanical and damping properties of epoxy-bamboo composites, broadening their applicability in various fields.
Study on the effects of three surface imperfections on the performance of O-ring seals based on the finite element method
Authors: Wu Jia-Bin , Li Li , Wang Pin-Jian
Published: July 2024

The performance of O-rings is crucial to the large variety of core equipment or components that employ O-ring seals. O-ring surface imperfections that meet quality standards are allowed to be put into service. However, the presence of surface imperfections will inevitably affect the performance of the O-ring seal. To this end, in this study, nonlinear finite element models of O-ring structures with an ideal circular cross section and three surface imperfections of parting line projection, backrind, and excessive trimming in accordance with ISO standards are developed. On this basis, their contact conditions and stress distributions are calculated, analyzed, discussed, and compared. The results show that the maximum contact pressure in the area where the imperfection is located increases and that the presence of the imperfection does not reduce the sealing performance. Backrind under low pressure conditions and excessive trimming do not affect the maximum Von-Mises stress. While backrind under high pressure conditions and parting line projection can make the maximum Von-Mises stress increase significantly. In particular, at a fluid pressure of 10 MPa, backrind causes a 21% increase in the maximum Von-Mises stress, while parting line projection causes a 198% increase. Such a large increase in stress will increase the likelihood of fatigue failure and breakage.
A global and local integrated dynamic path planning algorithm for village roads region
Authors: Liu Jinyi , Yan Fushan , Dong He , Fu Lirong , Zhao Ying
Published: July 2024

In China, the village roads are characterized by numerous intersections and significant differences in road widths, creating a complex maze-like terrain. This undoubtedly increases the difficulty of path planning for autonomous vehicles. This study proposes an improved bidirectional RRT* algorithm that utilizes the advantages of the rapid random search of the RRT* algorithm. It introduces virtual points to address the irregularity of road networks and creates enveloping circles at expanding nodes to enhance path reachability, thus obtaining the optimal global planning path. To enhance path tracking comfort, a fifth-order B-spline curve is utilized to smooth the global path, and local path planning is performed using Quadratic Programming (QP). The proposed combined global and local path planning method was evaluated through Co-simulation experiments basing on the Matlab/CarSim/PreScan platform. Simulation results demonstrate that the enhanced RRT* algorithm outperforms the traditional RRT* algorithm in the same scenario. Specifically, the improved algorithm reduces the running time by 29.56%, increases node utilization by approximately 15.33%, and decreases the planned path length by 2.8%. Additionally, the vehicle’s final lateral tracking error was controlled within 0–0.04 m, and the longitudinal tracking error was controlled within 0–0.1 m, fully demonstrating the vehicle’s excellent path-tracking performance. The study’s innovative ideas will offer methodological support for researching path planning for autonomous vehicles in specific scenarios.
Computational analysis of piston shape effects on in-cylinder gas flow, fuel-charge mixing, and combustion characteristics in a two-stroke rod-less spark ignition opposed-pistons engine
Authors: Zhu Zhaojun , Yang Ziming , Li Yikai , Sun Chenghan
Published: July 2024

Compared with the traditional in-cylinder direct-injection spark ignition engine, the side-injection and side-spark-ignition characteristics of the two-stroke opposed-piston engine increase the ignition kernel offset and flame propagation distance. Increasing the flame propagation speed can to some extent solve the drawbacks caused by the non-central arrangement of spark plugs. The combustion chamber structure plays a crucial role in gas flow, fuel-charge mixing, and combustion characteristics. Therefore, three pistons were designed and comparatively analyzed in this study. The results show that: The pancake piston is beneficial to maintaining the intake swirl strength due to its simple and smooth spherical arc structure. The swirl strength of the pit and pit-guided piston decreases obviously, and the tumble strength can be maintained well. Compared to pancake and pit-guided pistons, the average TKE for the pit piston increased by approximately 25%, with a more concentrated distribution at the spark timing. The pancake piston exhibits the best scavenging performance, reducing the residual exhaust gas ratio by 2.1% and fresh air loss by 3.3% to the pit piston. A stable ignition core can be formed at the spark timing, but significant differences are observed in the flame propagation process for three pistons. Compared to the pit-guided piston, the pit piston has a 0.3% decrease in the indicated thermal efficiency, but a 13.1% decrease in combustion duration, which reduces knock tendency.
Improving urinary incontinence management and sleep quality with wetness sensing technology in absorbent products
Authors: Hellmold Jens , Vanderperren Wim
Published: July 2024

Using absorbent products to manage the urinary incontinence (UI) of dependent residents in care facilities (such as nursing homes, and hospitals) requires frequent routine checks throughout the day and night to see if products need changing. Timely changes of saturated products are necessary to avoid long-lasting skin exposure to wet absorbent products, unpleasant odor, leaking of such products and embarrassing moments for the users. Limited staffing, high workload, and peaks on the demand for caregiving are challenges that hamper swift support for the care dependent population. This paper describes novel sensing technology that has been developed for monitoring the wet state of absorbent products remotely. The Orizon system by Ontex enables caregivers to prioritize care routines, avoid sleep disturbance at night and achieve effective leakage prevention. Moreover, the monitoring data can be used to understand the individual product usage and incontinence pattern of individuals, helping incontinence specialists to choose the optimal product and implement appropriate toilet training for each user.
Explaining the process of learning about dignity by undergraduate nursing students: A grounded theory study
Authors: Franco Hugo , Caldeira Sílvia , Nunes Lucília
Published: July 2024

Background

The learning process about dignity and how undergraduate nursing students experience and use this ethical knowledge is an under-represented field in nursing research. To overcome the lack of conceptual clarity, it is important to understand what processes and dimensions students develop to support this learning outcome.

Objective

This study aimed to explain the process of learning about dignity by undergraduate nursing students.

Research design and methods

A qualitative study was conducted using the grounded theory method.

Participants and research context

Data was collected through free reports and in-depth semi-structured interviews with 20 participants. A focus group was held for the selective coding. Sampling began purposefully and evolved into theoretical. Reflective and theoretical memos were generated from the data collection and constant comparison. Data analysis was performed using qualitative data analysis software using Corbin and Strauss’ method.

Ethical considerations

The research was approved by a specialized research ethics committee from a Health School.

Findings

The process of learning about dignity by undergraduate nursing students revealed ‘recognition of dignity’ as the core category, supported by five main categories: ‘proto-conscience of dignity’, ‘pathway to nursing’, ‘consciousness of dignity’, ‘ways of learning’, and ‘becoming capable’. These categories illustrate the processes and dimensions involved in nursing students’ concept translation of dignity learning, allowing a theory to emerge.

Conclusions

The ‘Recognition of Dignity’ theory aims to contribute to developing educational, training, and supervision processes for nursing programs. It seeks to enhance the ethical and moral development of undergraduate nursing students by helping them understand the concept of dignity and its fundamental importance in nursing.
Nigeria’s industrial policy transformation in the era of Sino-African cooperation
Authors: Odijie Michael E
Published: July 2024

This paper examines the changing nature of industrial policies in Africa within the context of Sino-African cooperation, utilizing Nigeria as a case study. It contends that sustained failures of industrial policies, attributed largely to the inability of ruling elites to enforce reciprocal control mechanisms are encouraging policymakers to consider incorporating Chinese investment into their industrial strategies. This integration is driving significant changes in Africa’s industrial policy practice, as national strategies are adjusted to attract and accommodate Chinese capital and technical support. This study leverages a variety of sources including interviews with Nigerian government officials involved in industrial policy design and implementation, industry representatives benefiting from industrial policies, policy documents, and media sources. The research aims to shed light on the dynamic interaction between international development cooperation and domestic policy transformations, illuminating the profound impact of Chinese involvement on Africa’s industrial policy landscape.
Official media use, political participation, and government trust structure. An empirical study based on the attitude of Chinese netizens
Authors: Hu Qian , Pu Yanping
Published: July 2024

While research has explored the relationship between official media use and hierarchical government trust, there is a lack of studies that delve deeper into the relationship between official media use and government trust structure. Therefore, this study uses data from the 2017-2018 Chinese netizens’ social awareness non-tracking survey and employs rational choice theory and process-based trust mechanisms theory to empirically explore, for the first time, the relationship between official media use and government trust structure, along with its underlying mechanisms. Government trust structure is divided into four categories based on the different levels of trust in the central government and local government: paradoxical government trust, equal distrust, hierarchical government trust and equal trust. Among them, hierarchical government trust can be divided into central-distrust-local-distrust, central-trust-local-distrust, and central-trust-local-trust. The study finds that although hierarchical government trust decreases, it is the dominant form of government trust structure, and central-trust-local-distrust is the dominant form of hierarchical government trust. The transformation of other government trust structures into hierarchical government trust of central-trust-local-trust is associated with official media use, and political participation has a mediating effect in official media use and government trust structure. Our findings not only deepen the understanding of rational choice theory and process-based trust mechanism theory but also expand the comprehensive understanding of government trust structure in authoritarian regimes like China.
Understanding Rewarding and Challenging Nursing Experiences During the Pandemic in Five Countries: Toward Strengthening the Workforce
Authors: Mayer Kala A. , Simpson Vicki L. , Jo Soojung , Kurt Sule , Bennett Jo Anne , Takagi Etsuko , Skibiski Jeanie , Han Soo-Yeon , Reifsnider Elizabeth
Published: July 2024

Introduction:

Nurses are now more likely to leave their current role in direct patient care than they were before the COVID-19 pandemic. Country culture and the organization of health care systems drive nurses’ decisions to leave or stay in the profession.

Methods:

In a fall 2020 survey of nurse professional quality of life, a content analysis of responses to the open-ended question, “ What has been challenging or rewarding during this pandemic experience?” was performed. Results were organized within Hofstede’s Cultural Dimensions Theory.

Results:

Six hundred and fifty-six nurses across five countries responded to the question; 526 comments were analyzed. Most (53.6%) respondents were staff bedside nurses. Themes, such as Distress and Fatigue and Building and Experiencing Social Capital were found and understood to reflect cultural values and dimensions such as Uncertainty Avoidance and Power Distance.

Discussion:

Recommendations include strengthening culturally tailored leadership knowledge to inform and facilitate countries’ nurse retention.
Mind the Gap: Understanding Palliative Care Clinician Attitudes Toward Mental Health Training
Authors: Shalev Daniel , Chammas Danielle , Brenner Keri O. , Moxley Jerad H. , Reid M. Carrington , Rosenberg Leah B.
Published: July 2024

Background: Palliative care (PC) clinicians provide mental healthcare to individuals with serious illnesses. Despite this, there is limited knowledge regarding their mental health training opportunities. Methods: To identify predictors of satisfaction with mental health training opportunities and assess the relationship between training opportunities and clinician comfort in managing mental health comorbidities, we conducted a secondary analysis of a nationwide survey involving 708 PC clinicians. Results: Satisfaction with mental health training was moderate (M = 2.75/5, SD = .915). Access to lectures/webinars was the most common training opportunity (54%). Significant predictors of satisfaction with training included access to lectures/webinars (β = .328, P <.001) and case discussions (β = .231, P = .007). Academic practice settings and satisfactory mental health referrals were associated with a greater number of different training opportunities. Clinicians in academic settings had higher odds of accessing various training opportunities, such as lectures/webinars (OR = 2.58, P <.001) and longitudinal training pathways (OR = 4.51, P <.001). A moderate, positive correlation was found between training satisfaction and comfort in managing mental health comorbidities (r = .30, P <.001). Discussion: This study is among the first to elucidate factors influencing PC clinicians’ satisfaction with mental health training. Low-resource training opportunities, such as webinars and lectures, significantly predict satisfaction, suggesting the potential of these scalable solutions to enhance training. The findings underscore the importance of expanding evidence-based mental health training for PC clinicians to improve patient care.
Institutional Friction and Policy Responsiveness: The Puzzle of Coalitional Fragmentation and Executive-Legislative Balance
Authors: Maedgen Jack , Wlezien Christopher
Published: July 2024

Research on policy responsiveness to public opinion highlights differences owing to political institutions—both electoral and governmental. Electoral institutions that produce coalition governments tend to reduce responsiveness in between elections. Government institutions that divide powers horizontally, by contrast, appear to increase that responsiveness. These findings point to the role of institutional “friction” in shaping what governments do, though the two sources appear to produce different effects—one harmful and the other helpful. This paper explores this apparent contradiction. We revisit and clarify theoretical assumptions and outline alternative models of the effects of friction. Extending previous tests, now in 18 countries, we find clearer evidence supporting that earlier research and more firmly establish friction as the mechanism, particularly as regards the influence of electoral systems. The two institutional sources of friction appear to influence responsiveness in different ways, which has implications for politics and policy that we consider in the concluding section.
The Effect of Microvascular Invasion on Hepatocellular Carcinoma With Portal Vein Tumor Thrombus After Hepatectomy: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Xu Qingyi , Lan Liqin , Zeng Jinhua , Zeng Jianxing
Published: July 2024

Background

There is no report resolving whether microvascular invasion (MVI) affects the prognosis of hepatectomy for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients with portal vein tumor thrombus (PVTT). The present study aimed to investigate the effect of MVI on HCC with PVTT after hepatectomy.

Methods

362 HCC patients with PVTT were included in this retrospective study. Diagnostic criteria of PVTT in HCC patients were based on typical preoperative radiological features on imaging studies. The log-rank test was utilized to differentiate overall survival (OS) and recurrence-free survival (RFS) rates between the two groups. Univariate and multivariate Cox proportional hazard regression was utilized to detect independent factors.

Results

PVTT without MVI accounted for 12.2% (n = 44). PVTT without MVI groups was significantly superior to PVTT with MVI groups in OS (the median survival = 27.1 months vs 13.7 months) and RFS (the median survival = 6.4 months vs 4.1 months). The 1-, 3-, and 5-year OS rates (65.5%, 36.8%, 21.7% vs 53.5%, 18.7%, 10.1%, P = .014) and RFS rates (47.0%, 29.7%, 19.2% vs 28.7%, 12.2%, 6.9%, P = .005) were significant different between two groups. Multivariate analysis showed that MVI was an independent risk factor for OS (hazard ratio (HR) = 1.482; P-value = .045) and RFS (HR = 1.601; P-value = .009).

Conclusions

MVI was an independent prognostic factor closely linked to tumor recurrence and poorer clinical outcomes for HCC patients with PVTT after hepatectomy. MVI should be included in current PVTT systems to supplement to the PVTT type.
Safety Assessment of Polyol Phosphates as Used in Cosmetics
Authors: Johnson Wilbur , Bergfeld Wilma F. , Belsito Donald V. , Hill Ronald A. , Klaassen Curtis D. , Liebler Daniel C. , Marks James G. , Shank Ronald C. , Slaga Thomas J. , Snyder Paul W. , Fiume Monice , Heldreth Bart
Published: July 2024

The Expert Panel for Cosmetic Ingredient Safety (Panel) reviewed the safety of 10 polyol phosphates. Some of the possible functions in cosmetics that are reported for this ingredient group are chelating agents, oral care agents, and skin conditioning agents. The Panel reviewed relevant data relating to the safety of these ingredients under the intended conditions of use in cosmetic formulations, and concluded that Sodium Phytate, Phytic Acid, Phytin, and Trisodium Inositol Triphosphate are safe in cosmetics in the present practices of use and concentration described in the safety assessment. The Panel also concluded that the data are insufficient to determine the safety of the following 6 ingredients as used in cosmetics: Disodium Glucose Phosphate, Manganese Fructose Diphosphate, Sodium Mannose Phosphate, Trisodium Fructose Diphosphate, Xylityl Phosphate, and Zinc Fructose Diphosphate.
Rethinking Australian democracy as a deliberative system
Authors: Davis Roger
Published: July 2024

This paper examines the relationship between Australia’s Indigenous and settler colonial systems of democracy through the lens of deliberative systems theory. It suggests that the ongoing effects of colonialism have rendered Indigenous democracy largely invisible causing a harmful divide in Australia’s democracies. A pluralist conception of democracy is necessary to understand the disconnect between the two systems, evidenced by a striking absence of literature on Australian Indigenous democracy. In response, this paper first theorizes a conceptual framework of a concurrent deliberative system, then describes the Indigenous deliberative system and the colonial system’s efforts to eliminate Indigenous democracy. Against this theoretical and empirical background, it considers whether the recent referendum for an Indigenous Voice to Parliament was just a colonial legacy or represented a pathway towards a shared postcolonial democratic future.
Abatement of Aerosols by Ionic Wind Extracted From Dielectric Barrier Discharge Plasma
Authors: Arshad Tehreem , Rafique Muhammad Shahid , Bashir Shazia , Hayat Asma , Murtaza Muhammad Ghulam , Muneeb Abdul , Shahadat Imran , Nayab Nabiha
Published: July 2024

Lahore (Pakistan), being an industrial city, has high emission of aerosols that affects and contaminates the air quality. Therefore, the abatement/inactivation of aerosols is necessary to restrict their infectious activities. In this project, ionic wind isolated from dielectric barrier discharge plasma (DBD plasma) has been utilized to abate the aerosols trapped in the Surgical Mask and KN95 Respirator. To infer the chemical and elemental detection of ambient aerosols, FTIR and LIBS have been employed. “From the results, it is noteworthy that abatement/removal of aerosols has been successfully carried out by the ionic wind irradiation and highlights the potential of DBD plasma technology in removing the aerosols pollution.”
Learning and performing Sanskrit as a sacred language: Children’s religious repertoires and syncretic practice in London
Authors: Souza Ana , Lytra Vally
Published: July 2024

Aim:

We investigate how children in the Sri Lankan Tamil Hindu/Saiva faith community in London learn and use Sanskrit alongside Tamil and/or English and other multimodal and embodied resources to communicate with the Divine.

Methodology:

The data were collected as part of a 3-year multi-sited collaborative team ethnography documenting how migrant children become literate in faith settings.

Data and analysis:

The data consist of participant observations across religious education classes, the Temple, and the home, and interviews with the key participant child, Chantia, her brother and the Chief priest at the Temple. The analysis focuses on instances in the data where sacred language learning and performance are thematised. In addition, we analyse a digital video recording of Chantia’s daily morning prayers using transvisuals.

Findings:

Learning Sanskrit consists of integrating a limited set of Sanskrit religious texts and practices, such as key religious concepts, mantras, and poetic verses in children’s evolving religious repertoire and is embedded in children’s everyday religious socialisation across contexts. Chantia unites and syncretises a range of conventionalised semiotic resources, including religious texts in Sanskrit to communicate with the Divine and personalise her act of worship.

Conclusions:

Children’s religious repertoires are learned, deployed, adapted, and expanded differently depending on the affordances of the socio-cultural context. Chantia’s meaning-making process is much more complex than the rigid categorisation of the different modal resources she deploys, forming an integrated system of communication.

Originality:

Our conceptualisation of Sanskrit sacred language learning is anchored on a multilingual and multimodal perspective that does not privilege Sanskrit over other (sacred) languages nor linguistic over non-linguistic resources.

Significance:

Our paper extends current critique of logocentric perspectives in applied and sociolinguistics to the examination of religious repertoires that are often driven by a communication hierarchy positioning sacred languages at the top and other aspects of communication as secondary.
Bridge performance degradation model based on the multi-variate bayesian dynamic linear method
Authors: Yang Guojun , Tian Li , Mao Jianbo , Tang Guangwu , Du Yongfeng
Published: July 2024

The degradation of bridge structural performance arises from the combined influence of various factors. Performance assessment and reliable prediction of bridge performance degradation through effective utilizing of detection information updates is a challenging problem. In this paper, the concept of performance indicators is redefined, employing to delineate bridge performance degradation. A bridge performance degradation model (the error ≤8%) is formulated, considering the multiple-variable Bayesian dynamic linear method (MBDLM) and revealing the coupling mechanisms among factors influencing bridge performance degradation. On this basis, the prediction performance of the model is quantitatively evaluated by three metrics: mean squared error, predictive mean squared error and mean absolute percentage error. A methodology is presented for the assessment, prediction, and maintenance reinforcement of in-service bridge structural performance degradation. This approach holds promise for future applications in safety assessments and the decision-making process for preventive maintenance of operational bridges.
Experimental study on combustion instability characteristics in a pre-chamber natural gas engine under lean burn conditions
Authors: Yang Xue , Li Guanguan , Cheng Yong , Wang Pengcheng , Zhao Yanlei
Published: July 2024

Pre-chamber jet ignition is a key technology for future high-efficiency natural gas (NG) engines. It can achieve fast and stable combustion through excellent ignition performance. However, there are still some challenges, such as high combustion instability near the lean burn limit and the narrow engine operating range. Therefore, this paper investigates the combustion instability of a pre-chamber NG engine under ultra-diluted conditions by experimental method. At two engine loads, experiments are carried out with different jet ignition intensity schemes to study the effect of jet ignition intensity on the cyclic combustion variations. Then, the combustion instability characteristics of the pre-chamber NG engine are studied by cyclic variation analysis and phase space reconstruction. The results show that with the increase in the jet ignition intensity, the cyclic combustion variations decrease, and the cyclic variation coefficient of the indicated mean effective pressure decreases to below 2%. The lean burn limit of the pre-chamber natural gas engine is extended to an excess air ratio of 2.0. The operation instability of the pre-chamber NG engine is mainly due to cyclic variations in the ignition and combustion process. The nonlinear dynamic analysis shows that the combustion process in the lean burn pre-chamber NG engine behaves with chaotic characteristics under the operating conditions of low jet ignition intensity. As the jet ignition intensity increases, the combustion stability is improved and the cycle-to-cycle variations change from fairly deterministic to more stochastic behavior. The chaotic characteristics of the combustion process become weaker. In conclusion, it is of great importance to generate stable and high ignition intensity jets for reducing combustion instability and improving combustion efficiency in lean burn pre-chamber NG engines.
SCR + ASC systems control by backward induction with adaptive grid and different disturbance scenarios
Authors: Pla Benjamín , Piqueras Pedro , Bares Pau , Aronis André Nakaema
Published: July 2024

The purpose of this study is to enhance control strategies for selective catalytic reduction (SCR) and ammonia slip catalyst (ASC) systems, aiming to effectively reduce NOx emissions from automotive engines during realistic driving cycles. Despite the effectiveness of these after-treatment systems (ATS), their dynamic and non-linear characteristics present significant challenges in achieving precise control. Therefore, this research proposes a hybrid approach that combines backward induction (BI) as the primary optimization technique with model predictive control (MPC) framework for real-time application. The article introduces a reduced-state control-oriented model of the SCR + ASC system, which is embedded into the BI algorithm to calculate optimal control actions within a finite horizon. Additionally, it is proposed an alternative approach for adapting the grid of model states within the BI algorithm, effectively reducing the computational cost. This adjustment enables the algorithm to operate in real-time with near-optimal results, as confirmed by experimental validation. Lastly, the study explores how different degrees of knowledge regarding system disturbances impact the strategy’s performance, examining three distinct scenarios: constant prediction horizon, probabilistic description, and full knowledge of the prediction horizon.
Linguistic landscape as a tool of identity negotiation: The case of the Nepali ethnic communities in West Bengal
Authors: Bhujel Birendra , Sinha Sweta
Published: July 2024

Ethnic identity is dynamic and hence mutable concerning time and place. It is a social construction that involves society and its actors. Ethnic identity as a social construction is not free from the negotiation process. Such negotiations occur through various tools, the linguistic landscape being one of them. Despite the plethora of literature on identity negotiation in a multicultural and multilingual context, the linguistic landscape has not been sufficiently explored, especially considering it a tool in the ethnic identity negotiation process. Thus, how an ethnic community negotiates identity through linguistic landscape has been the major quest of the research. Therefore, the research tries to empirically examine the process of identity negotiation among the Nepali ethnic communities of Siliguri in the Darjeeling district of the state of West Bengal, India. 60 shop signs of the Nepali ethnic communities were photographed, applying the photographic data collection method. Unstructured interviews with each Nepali shop owner (ethnic sign producer) were also conducted. Photographic data were analyzed semiotically, and thematic and narrative analysis methods were adopted to interpret the interview data. In general, a mixed-method approach was used to analyze the data. The findings suggest that ethnic members symbolically ethnicize their shop signs to negotiate identity. The study shows how LL can be a tool of ethnic identity politics in India. The study signifies how ethnic communities assert identity through LL signage and how LL acts as an effective tool for identity negotiation in contemporary multicultural and multilingual Indian society. Also, this study contends that ethnicity is a relevant aspect of contemporary society and a political resource to ethnic communities.
University teachers’ perspectives on teaching: The differences among academic disciplines
Authors: Milutinović Jovana , Lungulov Biljana , Lazić Milica
Published: July 2024

Numerous studies indicated that perspectives and approaches to teaching of university teachers vary considerably across academic disciplines. However, other research presented contrary results. Regarding such inconsistencies in previous findings, the aim of this research was to examine the representation of five perspectives on teaching and three commitment components (Beliefs, Intentions and Actions) among university teachers of different academic disciplines. The Teaching Perspectives Inventory (TPI) which contains 45 items was used on the sample of 342 teachers from the University of Novi Sad. Dominant perspectives indicated that these teachers were more teacher-centred and that there are differences among university teachers from different academic disciplines (technical, social, medical and natural sciences) in terms of how they conceptualise and approach teaching. Differences between teachers from hard and soft sciences were evident only on the Social Reform perspective and on Intention component; hard sciences teachers were more teacher-centred and content-oriented while soft sciences teachers were more student-centred and learning-orientated. Understanding of the teaching process should include knowledge about academic culture and the context in which teaching takes place, which suggest the need to respect different disciplinary cultures when creating pedagogical training programs for university teachers.
Depth estimation of pipe wall thinning using multifrequency reflection coefficients of T(0,1) mode-guided waves with supervised multilayer perceptron
Authors: Katsuma Ryujin , Tada Koki , Iriguchi Tomoya , Seno Kotaro , Kondo Shinsuke , Ishikawa Masashi , Goka Motoki , Nishino Hideo
Published: July 2024

This study entailed the development of a novel method for estimating the depth of wall thinning of pipes using multifrequency (30–65 kHz) reflection coefficients (MRCs) of the T(0,1) mode-guided waves and a multilayer perceptron (MLP). First, this study established why MRCs are a critical feature of the input layer of the MLP for the defect depth estimation of wall thinning. Further, a mathematical model that can quickly collect large amounts of training data was used to calculate the reflection waveforms. The depths of artificial and actual wall thinning were estimated using the MLP based on the MRCs and the mathematical model. Experiments were conducted using the T(0,1) mode-guided waves to obtain the MRCs for 21 artificial and 6 actual wall thinnings to estimate the defect depths. A maximum of 8347 training data points were prepared using the mathematical model. Because the optimization of the MLP strongly depended on the initial weights and biases, 100 random initial values were prepared to evaluate the average estimations and their standard deviations. The classification scheme of the MLP was used, with classification step widths of 0.5 and 0.25 mm. The correct answer rates for the 21 artificial defects were 93%, with a tolerance of ±0.5 mm for the 0.5 mm classification scheme; those for the 0.25 mm classification scheme were 89%. For the six actual defects, the correct answer rates were 100% with a tolerance of ±0.5 mm for both the 0.5 and 0.25 mm classification schemes. Sufficiently high correct answer rates were obtained in all the cases.