bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hierarchical Temporal Structuring of Speech: A Multiscale, Multimodal Framework to Inform the Assessment and Management of Neuromotor Speech Disorder
Authors: Rong Panying , Heidrick Lindsey
Published: December 2023

Purpose:

Hierarchical temporal structuring of speech is the key to multiscale linguistic information transfer toward effective communication. This study investigated and linked the hierarchical temporal cues of the kinematic and acoustic modalities of natural, unscripted speech in neurologically healthy and impaired speakers.

Method:

Thirteen individuals with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and 10 age-matched healthy controls performed a story-telling task. The hierarchical temporal structure of the speech stimulus was measured by (a) 26 articulatory–kinematic features characterizing the depth, phase synchronization, and coherence of temporal modulation of the tongue tip, tongue body, lower lip, and jaw, at three hierarchically nested timescales corresponding to prosodic stress, syllables, and onset–rime/phonemes, and (b) 25 acoustic features characterizing the parallel aspects of temporal modulation of five critical–spectral-band envelopes. All features were compared between groups. For each aspect of temporal modulation, the contributions of all articulatory features to the parallel acoustic features were evaluated by group.

Results:

Generally consistent disease impacts were identified on the articulatory and acoustic features, manifested by reduced modulation depths of most articulators and critical–spectral-band envelopes, primarily at the timescales of syllables and onset–rime/phonemes. For healthy speakers, the strongest articulatory–acoustic relationships were found for (a) jaw and lip, in modulating stress timing, and (b) tongue tip, in modulating the timing relation between onset–rime/phonemes and syllables. For speakers with ALS, the tongue body, tongue tip, and jaw all showed the greatest contributions to modulating syllable timing.

Conclusions:

The observed disease impacts likely reflect reduced entrainment of speech motor activities to finer-grained linguistic events, presumably due to the dynamic constraints of the neuromuscular system. To accommodate these restrictions, speakers with ALS appear to use their residual articulatory motor capacities to accentuate and convey the perceptually most salient temporal cues underpinned by the syllable-centric parsing mechanism. This adaptive strategy has potential implications in managing neuromotor speech disorders.
Grid connected power regulation strategy of weak rural energy storage batteries based on particle swarm optimization algorithm
Authors: Deng Wenqiang , Xu Lu , Shen Zhaoxuan , Gui Hao , Zhou Qu , Zhao Zhongyong
Published: December 2023

In recent years, the research and application of distributed energy storage technology have received high attention from countries around the world and have achieved rapid development. Integrating distributed energy storage devices into the power grid is one of the effective ways to solve the problem of power quality in weak rural areas. Based on particle swarm optimization algorithm, this paper studies the regulation strategy of integrating distributed energy storage systems into weak rural areas to improve power quality. Based on the actual daily load curve of the distribution station area, optimization regulation strategies are obtained to generate success rate instructions to guide the actual grid connection operation process of the energy storage system.
Residual sludge catalyzed by hydrolysis of thermophilic bacteria
Authors: Wang Changwei , Ning Zhifang , Zhong Weizhang , Li Yanfei , Hou Jiwei , Wang Zhaoyang , Zhang Haoran , Dong Xilei
Published: December 2023

In order to improve the utilization rate of the surplus sludge, this experiment investigated the efficient hydrolysis of the residual sludge, explored the effect of sludge nitrogen source, analyzed the influence on the content of protein, amino acid, polypeptide and particle size of the sludge hydrolysis index, and the extraction conditions were optimized by response surface analysis. The maximum protein extraction rate of the residual sludge at the reaction pH of 60°C and =7. Here, the particle size of S sludge was gradually reduced, reduced by 1.1% by 500 m-100 um, 7.5% by 30-50 μ m, 5.4% by 10 μ m-30 μ m, and 0-10 μ As m decreases 13% and sludge increased 13% Nt particles become thinner, larger than surface area and more developed pore structure.
Inexact multi-attribute decision analysis of groundwater remediation strategies with inputs of interval data
Authors: Ren Lixia , Yao Ling , Gong Guoli
Published: December 2023

This study introduced an inexact interval-based multi-attribute decision analysis (IMADA) method with AHP for identifying the compromised groundwater remediation strategies in different periods. This IMADA method has the following advantages: (1) provides a systematic and quantitative analysis procedure for comparing potential pumping alternatives under four remediation duration; (2) reflects the priorities of the project based on the points of view of different decision makers; (3) compromises among possibly tangible and intangible attributes according to a final ranking of pumping alternatives. The method is applied to a contaminated aquifer located in southeastern China, where a period of remediation action should be taken. Ten influential attributes were considered and 50 alternative remediation strategies were generated. Results from the case study indicate that action 48 is the optical remediation strategy under 5-year period, action 5 in 10-year, action 33 during 15-year period and action 26 in 20-year.
Optimization Analysis of Energy Structure in Jinhua City, Zhejiang Province Based on Carbon Peak Constraints
Authors: Hou Jiansheng , Huang Honghui , Zhang Lina , Wang Yingcong
Published: December 2023

As China's economic development has entered a new normal, it is in China’s self-interest to achieve carbon peaking before 2030. and the decomposition and analysis of the influencing factors of carbon emissions are not only conducive to predicting the peaking time of carbon emissions, but also crucial to develop differentiated emission reduction policies in Jinhua. This paper firstly decomposes and analyzes the influencing factors of carbon emissions in Jinhua based on LMDI decomposition technology and hidden Markov chain, and then the dynamic relationship among the influencing factors of carbon emissions in Jinhua is explored by the panel vector autoregressive model. In addition, this paper also uses STIRPAT model to forecast and analyze the peaking time of carbon emissions in Jinhua and puts forward targeted suggestions.
Research on the Prediction of Dual Credit Situation of Passenger Car Enterprises Based on Multiple Factors
Authors: Lu Jin , Hui Su , Yutong Liu
Published: December 2023

Currently, China's new energy vehicle industry has entered a new stage of rapid development on a large scale. In order to ensure the advancement and innovation of the "Dual Credit Policy", the key assessment indicators such as the requirement ratio of NEV credits are in an urgent need to be made stricter. The strictness of the key assessment indicators is closely related to the development of China's energy-saving and new energy vehicle industry. However, currently, there is still a lack of systematic prediction methods for the mediumand long-term dual credit situation of passenger car enterprises in China. In this paper, a database for the prediction of the dual credit situation of passenger car enterprises is constructed using a combined "top-down" and "bottom-up" approach. Specifically, the NEV penetration rate in the industry is quantitatively evaluated using a multivariate regression model under the assumption of a discrete choice model, with the consideration of constraints such as resource endowment, charging infrastructure, and transformation costs of enterprises. The potential for fuel consumption reduction in conventional energy passenger cars of enterprises is determined using an optimal energy-saving technology choice model, which provides the annual decline in fuel consumption for enterprises. The calculation of the credits for NEV models and energy consumption is estimated using the rules of policy development and a simple conversion method. In order to make the prediction database more applicable to the real-world scenarios, it is also embedded with out-of-cycle energy-saving technologies, and research advancements in the latest policies and standards. This prediction database will greatly support the evaluation of the effectiveness of the "Dual Credit Policy" in the medium and long run, and assist enterprises in formulating credit compliance strategies.
Optimization of Orderly Charging/Discharging Strategy for Electric Vehicles Considering Incremental Cost of V2G
Authors: Yu Saier , Huang Yiyu , Chen Yang
Published: December 2023

The integration of electric vehicles (EV) into demand-side response holds significant potential, which not only helps to reduce the operational expense of EVs, but also presents a viable strategy for the grid peak regulation. In this paper, the load simulation model of EVs is proposed based on the probability distribution of charging/discharging behaviours of different types of EV users from statistical data. On this basis, considering the incentive effect of hourly electricity price, an orderly charging/discharging optimization model is proposed to consider EV charging cost, discharge income and incremental battery loss cost caused by EV participating in the vehicle-to-grid (V2G) mode. This model provides a more accurate estimation on the incremental costs and market arbitrage benefits of EVs in V2G mode on the basis of conventional transportation utilization, so as to better optimize the operation strategy of the EVs for demand response. Numerical results show that in the context of tariff of usage (TOU), the orderly charge and discharge model reduces the operating cost of EV users, and can better exploit the potential of EV energy storage batteries in power grid peak regulation.
Research progress of nitrogen removal by anaerobic ammoxidation combined process
Authors: Wan Jiaxiu , Wan Jialiang , Wu Xiaoying , Chen Zhen , He Bihong
Published: December 2023

Anaerobic ammonia oxidation (ANAMMOX) is an efficient and low-fare biological nitrogen removal process. Nevertheless, there are still some challenges in mainstream request due to the limitations of substrate type and nitrate accumulation. At the present, anaerobic ammox combined process has been widely studied to solve the above issue. In this paper, the anammox combined processes developed in recent years are reviewed, and the process principles, pros and cons, influencing factors, process scalability, key bottlenecks in application and relevant work of the investigation group are discussed. Finally, the evolution of complex anammox process in urban domestic wastewater treatment was prospected.
Effect of alloying on β2-ordered FeAl with Pd and Ir for high-temperature application and ductility enhancement
Authors: Mkhonto C.S. , Ngoepe P.E. , Chauke H.R.
Published: December 2023

Β2-ordered FeAl and Fe3Al composition amongst other various compounds of transition metals and aluminium compositions have been of significance to researchers for application in industries for steel-IT coating purposes due to their well-adherent protective oxide layer that forms on the surface of such alloys at the metal/gas interface. We employed Cluster expansion (CE) technique to predict meta-stable and stable compositions of Fe1-XPd/IrXAl ternary. A Cluster Expansion phase diagram was predicted, with five stable Fe1-XPdXAl structures and three stable Fe1-XIrXAl structures having the lowest formation energies, respectively. Employed a first-principles approach to predict the mechanical properties, with four and two Pd and Ir ternary doped ductile structures and DMol3 technique to determine temperature dependence dynamical properties, that is, the binding energy of Fe50Al50, FePdAl2 and FeIrAl2 at various temperatures. Our findings showed that doping on FeAl with Pd and Ir significantly enhanced the binding energy that more energy would be required to disassemble the particles of the Ir system into individual parts; the hardness and ductility of the material for high-temperature application component coating for steel-IT superior protection.
Investigation of microstructural and micro-hardness properties of Ti-15.05Mo alloy for biomedical applications
Authors: Moshokoa Nthabiseng Abigail , Phasha Maje , Raganya Mampai Lerato , Diale Ramogohlo Given , Chauke Hasani , Makhatha Mamookho Elizabeth
Published: December 2023

This study presents the analysis of the microstructure and Vickers micro-hardness of β-Ti type Ti-15.05Mo alloy obtained by different cooling rates. The alloy was fabricated using an arc-melting furnace, solution treated in a muffle furnace and cooled using different cooling medium such as ice water, furnace cool and air cooling. The X-ray analysis of the as-cast showed β phases peaks only and water quenched samples showed peaks belonging to α″ and β phases. The (β, α) dual phases were detected in the furnace and air-cooled samples, respectively. The Optical Microscope (OM) micrographs of the as-cast Ti-15.05Mo sample showed large equiaxed β grains and sub-structures belonging to orthorhombic martensitic α″ phase. The water quenched sample showed β equiaxed grains, however their grains were much smaller You should leave 8 mm of space above the abstract and 10 mm after the abstract. The heading Abstract should be typed in bold 9-point Arial. The body of the abstract should be typed in normal 9-point Times in a single paragraph, immediately following the heading. The text should be set to 1 line spacing. The abstract should be centred across the page, indented 17 mm from the left and right page margins and justified. It should not normally exceed 200 words.
ARGUS: a pole climbing surveillance robot
Authors: de Ronde W. , Bosscha P. , Marais S. , Pretorius A.
Published: December 2023

Due to the high prevalence and unpredictability of violent protest action in South Africa, a need has arisen for rapidly deployable surveillance. This paper proposes an Automated Robotic Guardian for Urban Surveillance (ARGUS) platform, a wheeled, pole climbing robot as a potential solution. The platform is designed to attach to and traverse up existing cylindrically shaped infrastructure, such as light posts, enabling easy deployment in urban environments. The robot is intended for various surveillance needs, such as public safety at events, and periods of unrest or protest action. Following a detailed concept design stage, simulated results are presented for the proposed robot. This includes comprehensive CAD modelling, static force and torque calculations of the pole climbing robot, and finite element analysis of the component stresses while positioned on the pole. The robotic platform is currently in production and future work will include experimental validation of the simulated system.
Reliability of visual inertial odometry on an unmanned aerial vehicle
Authors: Setati Tiro , Maweni Thabisa , Botha Natasha
Published: December 2023

There is a need to ensure that an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) can fly safely in indoor environments. In this paper, the visual-inertial odometry (VIO) implemented in a commercial UAV is tested to determine its reliability to keep its position in confined indoor spaces. The experimental results indicated that the UAV was able to track the subject from an average distance of 3915.23 mm in the y-direction, with RMSEx and RMSEy of 452.47 mm and 332.66 mm, respectively. This shows that the UAV can track objects in confined environments, such as the aisles of an indoor warehouse.
Heterogeneous computing for low-cost robotic platforms
Authors: van Zyl Raynhardt , Fisher Callen
Published: December 2023

This study presents a novel approach to the design of cost-effective autonomous rovers using a heterogeneous computing architecture. The research focuses on the development and evaluation of an autonomous rover system, priced under $2 700 (USD), that can operate independently in various environments. The system’s performance was assessed in real-world conditions, demonstrating an average speed of 0.5 m/s, an energy consumption of 0.2 kWh, and a decision-making error rate below 5%. The results suggest that the use of heterogeneous computing architectures can lead to the development of affordable and efficient autonomous navigation systems. The paper concludes by discussing potential future research directions and the broader implications of these findings for the field of autonomous systems.
Motion planning for a hexapod robot over uneven terrain
Authors: Di Leva J.A. , Engelbrecht J.A.A.
Published: December 2023

This paper explores the motion planning of a hexagonal-based hexapod robot (Hexapod) for executing complex motions. The system utilized the Denavit-Hartenberg coordinate system and a kinematics system to enable individual leg control for the Hexapod. By manipulating this system within a simulation, the Hexapod successfully demonstrated the ability to ascend and descend an obstacle, adjust its body’s height and Euler angles, and execute smooth transitions on sloped terrains.
The challenges associated with fused deposition modelling of high-density polyethylene for facial augmentation implants: a review
Authors: Mohutsiwa Rebakakgosi , van der Walt Jacobus , van den Heever Hercules
Published: December 2023

High-density polyethylene (HDPE) implants are widely employed in craniomaxillofacial augmentation surgery because of their unique ability to bond with tissues for bone repair and functional recovery of the facial areas which are affected by acquired or congenital facial deformities. The direct manufacturing of HDPE implants as patient-specific implants through fused deposition modelling (FDM) has the potential to enhance their clinical performance. However, this approach is restricted by issues such as material shrinkage and part warpage when HDPE is processed through the FDM technology. This review paper presents an overview of FDM of HDPE to produce facial reconstruction implants.
Additive manufacturing in the development of patterns and low-cost tooling for in-class manufacture
Authors: Bolton Martin
Published: December 2023

In this paper I present various approaches to low-cost tooling for the manufacture of small plastic objects as part of in-class technology and manufacture demonstrations. This is done with the utilisation of 3D printing in the prototyping and tooling processes. Although Additive Manufacturing and resin tooling is common practice in industry, what I do is link it to experimental teaching in the University environment, allowing students to engage with low-cost tooling and Lean Manufacturing methodologies within their own learning processes. With moulds being low-cost, it allows for more experimentation in the design process, inviting opportunities for experimentation and innovation. Various student projects and lectures will be presented and discussed.
Dynamic tap density as a powder characterisation technique for metal powders
Authors: de Waal Andri , Blaine Deborah , Giliomee Francois , Neaves Melody
Published: December 2023

Powder characterisation is critical for developing high-quality, consistent powder metallurgy processes and materials. Internationally standardised tests have been developed to measure specific powder characteristics that are relevant to specific powder metallurgy manufacturing techniques. Dynamic tap density is a new characterisation method for granular materials that has not yet been applied to metal powders. In this study, the dynamic tap density of different metal powders is measured and compared to standard powder characteristics. The results support the theoretical assumption that observing the dynamic tap density can give you further information on the powder characteristics and whether the powder will be suitable for a specific powder metallurgy process.
A review of the types and tessellation of lattice structures, their effectiveness and limitations in mimicking natural cellular structures
Authors: Chibinyani Munashe , Cephas Dzogbewu Thywill , Maringa Maina , Muiruri Amos
Published: December 2023

Lattice structures are useful in the automotive, biomedical, and aerospace engineering fields because of their good mechanical properties. The efficacy with which their geometries are designed influences their load-bearing capacity. The methods of generating different types of lattice structures have not been clearly outlined in literature. Furthermore, their applicability and shortcomings in trying to mimic biological cellular structures remain to be well investigated. In this paper, numerous types of lattice structures prevalent in literature are highlighted and their tessellation described. The paper also explores the application of lattice structures in terms of their capabilities and limitations, in mimicking cellular structures in nature.
Optimization of avocado seed nanoparticle extract (ASNE) as green inhibitor on API X65 steel corrosion using response surface methodology
Authors: Alao Alice , Popoola Abimbola , Dada Modupeola
Published: December 2023

The use of natural products as inhibitors has become increasingly popular due to environmental concerns and the need for sustainable corrosion solutions. In this investigation, response surface methodology (RSM) was utilized to optimize the process variable of ASNE on API X65 steel in 1M HCl acid solution through gravimetric and surface analysis. The influence of concentration, temperature, and exposure time on the inhibition efficiency of avocado seed nanoparticle extract (ASNE) was examined using a central composite design (CCD). The optimum values obtained for the highest inhibition of 95.7% were a temperature condition of 25 °C, a concentration of 5 g/L, and exposure time of 24 hours. Microstructural examination of the studied samples showed a significant surface difference, confirming the formation of a protective layer on the steel surface. Experimental data was in good agreement with the model hence, the study provides valuable insights into the use of ASNE as an inhibitor for API X65 steel and demonstrates the effectiveness of RSM in optimizing the inhibition process variables.
Machine learning models for predicting density of sodium-ion battery materials
Authors: Monareng Keletso , Maphanga Rapela , Ntoahae Petros
Published: December 2023

With the unprecedented amounts of material data generated from high-throughput density functional theory, machine learning provides the ability to accelerate the discovery and design of new materials. In this work, machine learning regression techniques are applied to a large amount of data from Materials Project Database, to develop machine learning models capable of accurately predicting the densities of sodium-ion battery cathode materials. Different machine learning regression models are successfully developed and validated. Feature vectors derived from the properties of materials’ chemical compounds are evaluated. Extra trees regressor model is found to be the best model in predicting the density with an accuracy of 0.95 and 0.09 g/cm3 coefficient of determination and mean square error, respectively.
Structural properties of P2 and O2-type layered lithium manganese oxides as potential coating materials
Authors: Makhubela Precious , Ledwaba Raesibe , Kgatwane Kenneth , Ngoepe Phuti
Published: December 2023

Surface coatings have been reported to improve the performance of cathode materials by altering the surface chemistry or providing a physical protective layer. There is currently a challenge of obtaining the most suitable coating materials between the O2 and P2 type structure for coating the O3-type cathode material to mitigate the structural degradation that occurs during cycling. The density functional theory was used to investigate the structural and electronic properties of these materials in a quest to monitor their stability upon their usage as coating materials for O3-Li2MnO3. The partial density of states of the O2 and P2 bulk materials and O2 and P2 materials with vacancies indicated that the electron contribution at the fermi level was due to the p state of oxygen and the d state of manganese. Furthermore, the electronic band structures showed that the materials are metallic, with a band gap of zero. The P2 and O2-type cathode materials have been known to offer high energy density and excellent cycling stability while the P2 has been found to not only enhance the reversibility and air/thermal stability of other cathodes but also improve their electrochemical kinetics and reduce the charge transfer resistance.
Transition metal carbonate precursors as cathode materials for lithium ion batteries: first principles study
Authors: Morukuladi Mogahabo Tebogo , Ngoepe Noko , Masedi Clifton , Ngoepe Phuti
Published: December 2023

Lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) are frequently regarded as the best batteries ever made due to their significant energy density, low lithium reduction potential, and small size. LIBs are structurally comprised of functional parts of cathodes, anodes, separator, and electrolyte. Cathode materials are among the best possibilities of achieving the remarkable energy densities for LIBs due to their capacitance value exceeding 250 mAh/g. This study investigates the structural, electronic, mechanical and thermodynamic properties of two candidate materials: Ni0.2Mn0.5Co0.2CO3 and Ni0.2Mn0.5Co0.2O2 by means of DFT-based computational simulations. In particular, structural parameters, density of states, elastic constants and phonon dispersion curves were calculated to mimic their stability. From our results we found that the density of states reveal no energy band gap at the Fermi line for both materials, which indicate metallic characteristic. We also note that from the phonon dispersions, Ni0.2Mn0.5Co0.2CO3 shows no negative vibrations along the high Brillouin zone as compared to Ni0.2Mn0.5Co0.2O2 which displayed negative vibration. This implies that Ni0.2Mn0.5Co0.2CO3 is vibrationally stable while Ni0.2Mn0.5Co0.2O2 is unstable.
Thermal reclamation of used sand produced by binder jetting processes
Authors: Thaba Thapelo Precious , Nyembwe Kasongo Didier
Published: December 2023

The binder jetting process for the manufacturing of sand moulds and cores for foundry applications generates appreciable quantity of used sand. This sand is generally discarded to dedicated landfills as a waste management practice in the country. This study therefore, explores the thermal reclamation of used silica sand. The used silica sand was heated in a muffle furnace at temperatures from 500˚C to 900˚C in order to burn off the coating material made of sulphonic acid and furfuryl alcohol. The results showed that heating the used silica sand samples at 600˚C for 10 and 15 minutes produced results close to virgin sand. The pH values obtained demonstrated that the reclaimed sand can be reused for additive manufacturing processes with the strength tests specimens reaching 220 N/cm2. Sand reclamation reduces the amount of waste sand that needs to be disposed, leading to lower disposal cost and potentially reducing landfill pollution.
Effects of used sand recycling on the foundry properties of three-dimensional printed sand moulds and cores
Authors: Matjila Makwena Annikie , Nyembwe Kasongo
Published: December 2023

Sand casting is one of the important metal casting processes that involves hard labour and patternmaking to produce sand moulds. However, it has evolved considerably since the adoption of rapid sand casting, a type of additive manufacturing. This advancement has reduced costs and improved lead time by eliminating tooling. Nevertheless, there are still some challenges that are being experienced, such as the recyclability of the waste sand produced by the foundry. With high costs of virgin sand and sand disposal, reusing the used sand is important. The objective of this paper is to evaluate the feasibility of adding new sand to the used sand during rapid sand casting. The results indicate that the semi-activated sand collected from the hopper can be reused to produce sand moulds and cores if new sand is added to it.
X-ray diffraction profile analysis of martensitic Ti6Al4V (ELI) parts produced by laser powder bed fusion
Authors: Muiruri Amos , Maringa Maina , du Preez Willie
Published: December 2023

The quantification of the density of defects in materials through non-destructive methods is of great interest to scientists and engineers. X-ray diffraction (XRD) peak profile analysis is a valuable method that is often used to reveal important microstructural information, such as defects present in crystalline materials as well as crystallite size. In this study, the broadening of XRD peaks of martensitic Ti6Al4V (ELI) produced by laser powder bed fusion (LPBF) was studied following modified Williamson-Hall (MWH) and Warren-Averbach (WA) analytical methods. The level of defects in martensitic LPBF Ti6Al4V (ELI) was found to drastically reduce by at least 73% after exposing the material to stress-relieving heat treatment.
Laser shock peening of laser powder bed fusion produced Ti6Al4V for potential improvements to implant performance
Authors: Strydom Tristan , Polese Claudia , Glaser Daniel
Published: December 2023

Titanium alloy based implants are becoming more common with medical advancements and longer global life expectancy. With its geometrical design freedom, low material wastage, and mass customisation, additive manufacturing has found growing use in biomedical applications. In this study, laser shock peening without coating (LSPwC) was investigated as a means to enhance the surface and mechanical properties of selective laser melted Ti6Al4V implants. The application of LSPwC was found to induce a favourable surface oxide layer, increase the measured surface roughness and hardness, and reverse the tensile residual stresses imparting deep, high-magnitude compressive residual stresses. The combination of oxide layer, increased roughness, and induced compressive stress will potentially improve implant osseointegration and increase fatigue life.
A digital twin framework to support vehicle interaction risk management in the mining industry
Authors: Verster Jaco , Roux Pieter , Magweregwede Fleckson , de Ronde Willis , Crafford Gerrie , Mashaba Musa , Turundu Safiya , Mpofu Mvikeli , Prinsloo Jacobus , Ferreira Pieta , Brodner Hartmut
Published: December 2023

In recent years, transport-related accidents, notably those involving trackless mobile machinery (TMM), have consistently ranked among the top three causes of fatalities and injuries in the South African mining industry (SAMI) [1]. These accidents arise from a combination of mechanical and technical malfunctions, environmental factors, and human or machine operator errors. Remarkably, these incidents persist despite the existence of specific regulations, standards, and codes of practice for transportation and machinery. This paper introduces a digital twin framework for TMM, which employs a systems engineering approach combined with software tools and computational analysis. This framework aims to enhance the current regulations by offering a continuous, quantitative risk assessment. By modelling and detecting non-conformance and adverse vehicle interaction events, the framework provides a quantitative risk analysis that complements the prevailing qualitative methods reliant on historical data and operational experience. A case study conducted at the CSIR main campus in Pretoria showcases the potential of the TMM Digital Twin.
Seeing the Peony in Early Qing-Dynasty Art: An Embodiment of Individual Identity
Authors: Yang Yuyan
Published: December 2023

Within the context of the Manchurians’ conquest of the Ming dynasty and their subsequent establishment of a new imperial rule, the intricate symbolic systems embodied in floral imagery, particularly the peony flowers, instilled a profound sense of insecurity in the nascent Qing court. Despite the government’s strict scrutiny of the visual and literary works of literati, as well as the imperial authority’s monopolization of peony portrayals, Yun Shouping and Gao Fenghan’s paintings of peonies exude an air of innocence and purity. However, beneath their seemingly tranquil facade lay internal struggles with themselves in the context of the era, along with a subtle defiance towards the new governing regime. This study examines how the two artists transcended the constraints of traditional depictions and aesthetic conventions surrounding peonies dictated by the highest social class, by analyzing the visual aspects of their peony paintings in conjunction with their biographical accounts, thus individualizing the floral motif with distinctive artistic languages. It exemplifies the reclamation of Yun and Gao’s dominion over each visual realm, wherein they assert their autonomous authority in shaping the conveyed information and emotions through the blossoms, while also finding security and solace in redefining and recontextualizing the subject matter whose symbolic significance has endured for millennia.
Understanding the phenomenon of childlessness in Japan: Causes and potential solutions
Authors: Wang Yueyue
Published: December 2023

This abstract explores childlessness in Japan, analyzing its emergence and proposing solutions. Japan’s declining birth rate and increasing number of childless couples pose significant demographic challenges, necessitating an investigation into the factors driving this trend. Examine demographic and socioeconomic influences and delve into the impact of rising living costs, job insecurity, and work-life balance on potential parents’ decisions. Additionally, cultural norms that uphold traditional gender roles and family expectations are scrutinized for their effect on parenthood choices. Transitioning to potential solutions, this essay discusses family-friendly policies, including affordable childcare and parental leave benefits, as measures to alleviate the financial and time constraints couples contemplating parenthood face. Moreover, this essay emphasizes the importance of challenging cultural attitudes surrounding marriage and child-rearing to create a more inclusive and supportive environment. This abstract contributes to understanding the complexity of childlessness in Japan. Identifying key factors and presenting actionable ideas aims to inspire further dialogue and collaborative efforts to address this demographic challenge and foster a sustainable future.
Comparing the United States and China’s Foreign Aid to Education in Southeast Asia
Authors: Hu Xinyan
Published: December 2023

Since the Second World War, foreign aid has evolved from an initial focus on economics and technology to a comprehensive focus on broader areas, including education. The comparison between the aid measures of the United States and China to Southeast Asia and the motives behind them help to gain a deeper understanding of their political, economic, and cultural influence over the region. The paper first offers updated statistics and analyzes the specific measures of the U.S. and China’s educational aid in Southeast Asia, including implementing basic, higher, and vocational education programs and providing scholarships. The paper then summarizes their aiding characteristics that the U.S. enjoys a long aiding history and a relatively mature aiding system, while China, as an emerging force in the foreign aid system, needs more practical experience. The paper finally compares their educational aid from descriptive characteristics, material outcomes, and motivations and determinants. The paper concludes that though there are variations in aid funding and outcomes between the United States and China, the divergence in specific measures is less pronounced. Both countries actively utilize foreign aid to increase their influence on recipient countries in Southeast Asia; however, the fundamental difference in their aid modalities lies in the norms and legitimate discourses.
The localization of exotic Buddhism——Forms of Hunping (Soul Jar) and its animals and Buddhist images
Authors: Su Ruowei
Published: December 2023

The hunping is an unusual shape of the buried Ming’s vessels. The characteristics of its shape originated from the realization of people’s concepts of life, death and funeral in ancient times, which has a strong local color and carries a variety of research values such as artistic decoration, living customs and religious myths at the same time. This paper will sort out the morphological changes of hunping in different periods, including how it evolved from the wulianguan to hunping, and analyze the reasons why wulianguan & hunping are mostly found in the South in relation to the areas where they were excavated. Then, this paper will discuss and conjecture around the funerary concepts and Buddhist connotations reflected in the Buddha statues and other decorations on hunping. The Buddhist elements on hunping aren’t an indication that Buddhism was widely spread and deeply rooted in people’s minds at that time, but only vaguely existed as part of the idea of the Divine Immortal’s formula.
The Influence of Parenting Styles on Adolescents’ Anxiety and Depression ---the Mediating Role of Self-Efficacy
Authors: Li Linzhe , Qian Runqi , Wang Yiran
Published: December 2023

The relationship between parenting styles (PS) and anxiety and depressive symptoms is one of the key research topics today. Researchers have found progress in the cause of adolescents’ anxiety and depressive symptoms regarding parenting styles. However, there are still research gaps for factors related to PS. Therefore, this study investigates the effect of PS on adolescents’ anxiety and depressive symptoms and treats self-efficacy (SE) as the mediator by collecting data from several scales (SAS, SDS, s-EMBU-C and GSE) and conducting SPSS 21.0 analysis on the data. According to the results in this paper, the father’s emotional warmth parenting style (EWPS) could affect the level of anxiety, whereas that of the mother had an insignificant result. Besides, both parents’ EWS were negatively and indirectly correlated with depression in significance. Additionally, the rejection parenting style (RPS) and over-protection parenting style (OPPS) affected anxiety and depression significantly directly and positively (all p < 0.05). That result turned out to be insignificant in the indirect path. Generally, this research provides an appropriate suggestion to lower anxiety and depressive symptoms. The suggestion is to encourage parents to offer more emotional warmth to their children instead of being RPS and OPPS.
Family - an important role in autism
Authors: Chen Yifei
Published: December 2023

Autism is a widespread developmental disorder that has plagued human beings for a long time. It is complex and special, and mostly occurs in children. Regardless of the etiology, diagnosis and treatment intervention of autism, it is closely related to the family of autistic patients. Therefore, this article will focus on the perspective of the family. What’s more, it will analyze the close relationship between the family and autism from the etiology and other aspects. This article tries to maximize the positive role of the family in the process of autism from onset to treatment, and reduce the negative impact of the family in the whole process. The aim is to popularize autism related knowledge. More families can understand what autism is. And measures can be taken as soon as possible. The direction of cooperation treatment will be pointed out for the families of autistic patients. At the same time, it can provide a certain basis for the future research of autism, and promote the development of autism related theory and practice.
Reasons for visually impaired children and autistic children participating in regular classrooms
Authors: Shao Jin
Published: December 2023

With the rapid development of Internet media, people have a variety of ways to obtain information. Special children are coming into the public’s vision, and the life and learning of many visually impaired children and autistic children are also attracting more and more people’s attention, which also enables more people to truly understand these special worlds. Whether these visually impaired children and autistic children are included in ordinary teachers has also become a hot topic. Based on real cases in reality, some blind people receive general education, which is more conducive to their future development. Some celebrity writers, etc., also realize their life value. By collecting the academic performance and psychological emotions of visually impaired and autistic children, this paper analyses prior studies which conduct surveys and test questionnaire data. The present study also makes a comparative analysis of the data, to explore whether visually impaired children and autistic children should receive general education. The result reveals that blind and autistic children need to receive formal education to develop social and learning skills.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Tangible Reward Systems
Authors: Ma Rayna
Published: December 2023

The tangible reward system is defined as the use of material and symbolic rewards to influence students’ behaviors. Tangible rewards are widely used in all education systems and have been researched from multiple aspects. However, investigations on the impact of tangible reward systems revealed controversial results. This article summarizes studies that support and oppose the ongoing debate on whether teachers should use tangible reward systems in classrooms. Previous publications on the impact of the tangible reward system on students from kindergarten to undergraduates were analyzed. The findings were compared on different conditions such as grade levels, countries and regions, and the views of parents, teachers, and students. Literatures indicated that the tangible reward system could be used by teachers to an extent for young students or unmotivated classes only as an initial guide to lead students toward adequate learning behavior and self-motivation. Several suggestions were proposed on how to effectively use tangible rewards in the classroom.
Influence of Family Structure on Children’s Well-being – Challenges and Pathways to Promote Positive Development
Authors: Han Meiqiao
Published: December 2023

Children’s well-being is a complex and multidimensional concept that encompasses physical, emotional, social, and mental dimensions. Previous research has explored how the family may influence children. However, papers with depths and complicities about the different family structures’ effects on children’s well-being are lacking. This review aims to fill the gap by discussing the intricate relationships between family structures and children’s well-being, with a specific focus on single-parent families and stepfamilies resulting from remarriages. The review reveals that children in single-parent families face unique challenges due to the absence of dual parental support, affecting their academic achievements, interpersonal relationships, and overall life satisfaction. Stepfamilies, characterized by complex dynamics, present additional complexities that influence children’s well-being. Mental well-being emerges as a central dimension, shaping a child’s ability to navigate challenges and thrive. The findings of the review contribute to a deeper understanding of how family structures interact with children’s well-being. Future studies can further explore the impact of specific interventions on diverse family structures and children’s well-being. By highlighting challenges and opportunities within different family compositions, the review informs evidence-based policies and interventions aimed at empowering families, educators, and policymakers to create environments that nurture children’s overall development, irrespective of their family structure.
A Sociopsychological Study on The Sources of Stress Among Adolescents in Developing Countries
Authors: Liu Xiaochang
Published: December 2023

Compared with adolescents in developed countries, adolescents in developing countries face more significant and specific pressures, negatively impacting their mental health. Given that nearly 90% of the 1.2 billion young people around the world live in developing countries, it is crucial for researchers to understand the sources of these pressures. This article applies relevant theories and research methods of social psychology to explore the social, cultural, economic, and developmental pressures faced by adolescents in developing countries. Research has shown that poverty, family obligations, educational competition, lack of autonomy, and constantly changing social norms are the primary sources of stress for adolescents in developing countries, significantly affecting their mental health. The social pressure theory, self-determination theory, and cultural adaptation framework provide valuable perspectives for conceptualizing the behavioral and ideological characteristics of adolescents. Based on the previous study, this article will aim to discuss and evaluate the sources providing stress to teenagers in developing countries to help cultivate a healthy next generation.
Exploring Antisocial Personality Disorder and Domestic Violence: Unravelling Complex Causes and Effective Interventions
Authors: Chow Cheukkwan
Published: December 2023

Domestic violence is known to have a significant impact on both spouses and children. This comprehensive exploration delves into the intricate relationships between childhood exposure to Domestic Violence (DV), the development of antisocial personality disorder, and the profound emotional impact of trauma. It uncovers a complex tapestry of interconnected challenges, demanding multifaceted solutions. As the prent study navigate the web of these intricate issues, this paper unveil the pressing need for a holistic approach that involves individuals, families, professionals, and policymakers. By acknowledging the pervasive nature of these challenges and embracing multifaceted solutions, the authors can collectively strive to break the cycles of violence, nurture empathy, and cultivate environments where individuals can heal, thrive, and transform their life stories beyond the shadows of their traumatic pasts. This article offers several ideas on how to reduce the negative impact of domestic violence. The present study contribute to a better understanding of the influencing mechanisms of the impact of domestic violence and to the prevention of children’s exposure to DV.
An Overview On Children With Autism
Authors: Chen Xuanqi
Published: December 2023

This paper aims to explore the psychological status of autistic children through the relationship between parenting style and autism, the relationship between birth order and autism and the conclusion of autism research. The most important relationship between the parenting styles and the autism is an important aspect of this study. The study investigated how different parenting styles affect the development and mental health of children with autism. By studying parents’ behaviors and responses to children with autism, the researchers aimed to identify patterns and correlations between parenting styles and the severity of autism symptoms. The conclusion of this study will assist guide parents and professionals in implementing effective parenting tactics. In addition, this paper explores the relationship between birth order and autism. Previous research has suggested there may be a link between birth order and the likelihood of developing autism. By analyzing the birth order of these children, the researchers aimed to determine if there was a consistent pattern indicating that children in certain birth orders were at higher risk for autism. In addition to exploring the relationship between parenting style and birth order and autism, this paper also reviews previous research on autism. By thoroughly analyzing existing studies, the researchers aimed to identify common themes, methodological limitations, and gaps in the current understanding.