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Design and evaluation of a novel variable-length stepped scarf repair technique using a cohesive damage model
No full textThe advantages of Carbon Fibre Reinforced Polymers (CFRPs) are well established, but repairing CFRP components remains difficult and costly, posing challenges for industries like aerospace. This paper explores the design, modelling, inspection, and testing of a Variable Length Stepped Scarf (VLSS) repair scheme for highly loaded composite structures. A fully nonlinear 2D Finite Element Model (FEM) is used to design the VLSS repair, predict failure loads and modes, and model adhesive cohesion and delamination. The model incorporates a validated progressive damage model, general contact, and both force and geometric nonlinearities. Two manufacturing techniques involving hard repair patches and glass beads to maintain a constant bond line are employed. A 3D FEM validated against repaired composite coupons under uniaxial tension shows excellent agreement with experimental data. The static strength repair efficiency is approximately 80% of a pristine sample, with failure displacements at 87%, and Hooke’s stiffness at 102% of pristine laminates. Cohesive failure at adhesive overlap edges is identified as the cause of stiffness degradation, confirming experimental observations. This study contributes to both composite repair modelling and repair design optimisation
(Doing) Time is money: Confinement, prison work and the reproduction of carceral capitalism
Get PDFThis article examines how prison work functions as a site where neoliberal and carceral capitalist logics are reproduced across individual, organisational and societal levels. Drawing on ethnographic research conducted in a private UK prison, we argue that confinement exacerbates prisoners’ obsession with money and predatory entrepreneurialism, reflecting and reinforcing the broader dynamics of carceral capitalism at each level. By analysing these interconnected dynamics, we demonstrate how incarceration perpetuates these logics. Furthermore, we illustrate how prison work perpetuates neoliberal exploitation, surveillance and control, hindering rehabilitation and societal reintegration. Our analysis underscores the need for a comprehensive reassessment of the Prison Industrial Complex. We conclude that rather than viewing prisoners as a captive audience for reproducing carceral capitalism, prisons should be reimagined to prioritise the humanity of those impacted by the criminal justice system and to create alternative models of accountability and social transformation
Functionality appreciation in young children
Get PDFIn recognition of a need to better understand children's body image, this study aimed to explore how young children describe what they appreciate about their body functionality. A total of 381 British children aged four to six years old were interviewed in a brief play-based session. We looked at the absolute number of responses children gave when asked to list all the amazing things they could do with their bodies as well as the range of responses across body functionality domains using a coding rubric. We assessed whether there were differences by age and gender for both scores and then tested whether each were associated with body appreciation. On average, we found that children listed five amazing things they can do with their body across two body functionality domains. There were no significant differences by gender for either score. Older children gave significantly more functionality appreciation responses than younger children, which spanned more domains. The number of functionality appreciation domains children covered in their responses was positively associated with body appreciation while the total number included in their list was not. Insights from this preliminary work can aid the development and evaluation of positive body image interventions for young children. [Abstract copyright: Copyright © 2024 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Ltd.. All rights reserved.
Illustrated capsules from the advanced course in platelet research
Get PDFThis series of illustrated capsules summarizes the presentations made by the speakers at the first International Advanced Course in Platelet Research held in Murcia (Spain) from 27 to 28 September, 2024. This is the first course to receive a Fundamental Research Workshop Grant from the International Society on Thrombosis and Haemostasis (ISTH) and was also supported administratively and scientifically by the Spanish Society of Thrombosis and Haemostasis (SETH). This unique course focused on new methodologies applied in platelet research and how these are increasing our understanding of platelet formation, their multifunctionality in different physiological and pathological contexts, and contributing to the development of new platelet-targeted therapies to improve the management of hemostatic/thrombotic pathologies. It aligns with the objectives of several Scientific and Standardization Committees of the ISTH, including Platelet Physiology and Genomics in Thrombosis and Haemostasis, as well as with the academic objectives of the ISTH and SETH. The program was designed by the coordinator (J. Rivera), and the scientific advisory board (SAB: S.P. Watson, K. Freson, A. Balduini, and J. Di Paola) and comprised 9 scientific sessions with 25 presentations, each with time for extensive open discussion. Additionally, 33 abstract posters were presented, with the 3 highest scoring selected as oral presentations. The course was held in a single location and with an informal atmosphere to facilitate networking among participants. The course received very positive feedback from the 140 attendees. The course was supported by the ISTH, SETH, University of Murcia, CIBERER-ISCIII, Fundación Séneca (22426/OC/24), the United Kingdom Platelet Society and various pharmaceutical companies. We believe that the extraordinary scientific and human experience of this course may act as a stimulus for future courses. [Abstract copyright: © 2025 The Authors.
Application of machine learning for FOS/TAC soft sensing in bio-electrochemical anaerobic digestion
Get PDFThis study explores the application of various machine learning (ML) models for the real-time prediction of the FOS/TAC ratio in microbial electrolysis cell anaerobic digestion (MEC-AD) systems using data collected during a 160-day trial treating brewery wastewater. This study investigated models including decision trees, XGBoost, support vector regression, a variant of support vector machine (SVM), and artificial neural networks (ANNs) for their effectiveness in the soft sensing of system stability. The ANNs demonstrated superior performance, achieving an explained variance of 0.77, and were further evaluated through an out-of-fold ensemble approach to assess the selected model’s performance across the complete dataset. This work underscores the critical role of ML in enhancing the operational efficiency and stability of bio-electrochemical systems (BES), contributing significantly to cost-effective environmental management. The findings suggest that ML not only aids in maintaining the health of microbial communities, which is essential for biogas production, but also helps to reduce the risks associated with system instability
On the response of proteinoid ensembles to Fibonacci sequences
Get PDFThis work investigates the integration of Fibonacci patterns and Golden Ratio principles into proteinoid-based systems, connecting fundamental mathematical concepts with contemporary biomimetic approaches. Proteinoids are thermal proteins that can self-assemble and have enzyme-like capabilities. They provide a distinct platform for biomimetic information processing. Our study examines the impact of integrating Fibonacci sequences and the Golden Ratio (ϕ = 1.618) into the design and synthesis of proteinoids on their structural organization and response characteristics. We developed two categories of stimuli: auditory signals generated using frequencies derived from the Fibonacci sequence, and electrical patterns that correspond to the proportions of the Golden Ratio. The proteinoid microsphere assemblies were subjected to these stimuli, and their electrical and structural responses were recorded and analyzed. The results indicate that proteinoid systems reveal unique reactivity to acoustic stimuli based on the Fibonacci sequence, exhibiting heightened sensitivity to particular combinations of frequencies and demonstrating nonlinear amplification effects. The proteinoid assemblies exhibited distinctive temporal dynamics and emergent oscillatory behaviors when exposed to voltage patterns inspired by the Golden Ratio, which were not detected with ordinary input signals. These findings provide opportunities for developing advanced bioinspired information transfer and security systems and might improve our understanding of information processing in early chemical systems
Revitalising brownfields: A just transition to clean energy and energy equity
Get PDFEnergy poverty, affecting millions in the UK, exacerbates social and economic inequality by limiting access to affordable, sustainable energy. This issue is intensified by rising energy costs, inefficient housing and broader systemic injustices. At the same time, the UK's commitment to decarbonisation and net zero by 2050 necessitates significant renewable energy expansion, creating land-use conflicts. Brownfield sites – previously developed but now underutilised or contaminated land – offer an innovative solution to both crises by providing space for renewable energy projects, such as solar and wind installations.Despite their potential, challenges exist in redeveloping brownfield sites, including environmental contamination, regulatory complexity and financial barriers. However, addressing these through targeted policies, incentives and community-led energy initiatives can enhance energy justice, ensuring fair access to clean energy while revitalising local economies. A structured transition to renewable energy on brownfield land aligns with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy), 10 (Reduced Inequalities) and 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities). This strategy not only mitigates energy poverty but also contributes to the broader decarbonisation agenda, creating a just and inclusive energy future for all
Streaming and redirection of lower acuity adult patients attending the ED: Patient and staff experience
No full textBackground: Streaming and redirection in the ED involves the assessment, triage and prioritisation of patients. Lower acuity patients can be streamed to alternative services within the hospital or redirected to off-site services with the aim of alleviating ED clinical pressures. This study aimed to understand staff, patient, family members and carers' experiences of streaming and redirection, including patients and staff who used an NHS web-based application. Methods: A semistructured interview study with staff working in the ED involved in streaming delivery and adult patients and family members who had attended the ED for conditions that could be safely managed in lower acuity settings. Participants were recruited from two NHS Hospital sites in England, one using a web-based NHS urgent care self-service product (digital tool) and one using a nurse-led streaming model. Recruitment took place between August and December 2023. Results: 28 interviews were completed. Participants across both sites commented on the challenges of streaming and redirection and confusion around where patients needed to go for what conditions. Patients and staff felt that the lack of capacity in alternative services limited the effectiveness of streaming and redirection. Three themes developed: ‘it’s too muddy’: disruption to the flow of care, balancing privacy and efficiency in streaming and redirection, pressures in the wider healthcare system beyond the ED. Conclusions: This research has implications for understanding patient and staff experiences of streaming and redirection approaches, and the need for clear communication and navigation when utilising digital technologies in the ED
Identifying people at risk of rheumatoid arthritis in primary care: Qualitative study
No full textIdentification of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in primary care is challenging and often delayed. Anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide (anti-CCP) antibody testing of people presenting to primary care with new-onset musculoskeletal symptoms without synovitis could help address this; those testing positive are at increased risk of developing RA. To explore how primary care clinicians currently identify and refer patients with suspected RA, and the behaviours required to implement a prediction model for guiding targeted anti-CCP testing for non-specific musculoskeletal symptoms in primary care. Qualitative descriptive study in primary care in England. Eight GPs and eight Musculoskeletal First Contact Practitioners participated in semi-structured interviews to explore their experiences of identifying/referring patients with suspected RA and their views of a potential implementation package for the anti-CCP prediction model. Data were analysed using framework analysis. Variations in practice were evident across the pathway for identifying/referring patients with suspected RA, including in access to and use of the anti-CCP test. Implementing the anti-CCP prediction model would require clinicians to believe its benefits outweigh its risks, engagement of primary and secondary care teams, and incorporation of the prediction model within an easily accessible and useable clinical decision support system. Participants' views of implementing the anti-CCP prediction model varied but were mostly positive overall. Implementing a prediction model to guide targeted anti-CCP testing in primary care could be feasible. Further research is required to explore the potential benefits, risks, and costs of a pathway for identifying/managing people at risk of RA. [Abstract copyright: Copyright © 2025, The Authors.
International criminal tribunals as triggers of institutional change? Evidence from ad hoc tribunals and the icc’s referral and proprio motu cases
Get PDFThe current article examines whether international criminal tribunals (ICT) can be regarded as actors of international relations, which trigger domestic policy changes in countries under their jurisdiction. Drawing on the concepts of ‘third party enforcement’ and ‘credible commitment’ theory, the study examines ICT cases during which an ICT carried out investigations and prosecutions against the will of the respective sitting government. Based on field research from seven states and three tribunals, the authors present some counterintuitive conclusions. Limited institutional reforms did take place; they can at least partly be attributed to ICT decisions and they proved more sustainable in autocratic states than in some democratic ones. Independence from the organizations and states which created the tribunals does not always help tribunals to carry out their mission; it rather strengthens their actorness and influence if they enjoy their founders’ strong support but keep distance to the countries in which they investigat