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Enhancing engineering education: integrating ChatGPT in project management for industry-based capstone projects
No full textThe dynamic landscape of technology is transforming how the businesses of today work, which in
turn, also influences the learning environments. This fusion of education principles and industry opens
the door to a reinvented professional world. As such it is paramount for the graduates to be work ready and be able to apply modern technologies in their work. This necessitates to investigate the
practical viability and applicability of such technologies in real-world environments as well as in
higher education context to enhance project-based learning for a technology-driven future. This study
explores the integration of AI by blending project management principles with the potential of
emerging technologies.</p
‘I think I misspoke earlier. My bad!’: Exploring how generative artificial intelligence tools exploit society’s feeling rules
No full textGenerative artificial intelligence (GenAI) tools that appear to perform with care and empathy can quickly gain users’ trust. For this reason, GenAI tools that attempt to replicate human responses have heightened potential to misinform and deceive people. This article examines how three GenAI tools, within divergent contexts, mimic credible emotional responsiveness: OpenAI’s ChatGPT, the National Eating Disorder Association’s Tessa and Luka’s Replika. The analysis uses Hochschild’s concept of
feeling rules
to explore how these tools exploit, reinforce or violate people’s internalised social guidelines around appropriate and credible emotional expression. We also examine how GenAI developers’ own beliefs and intentions can create potential social harms and conflict with users. Results show that while GenAI tools enact compliance with basic feeling rules – for example, apologising when an error is noticed – this ability alone may not sustain user interest, particularly once the tools’ inability to generate meaningful, accurate information becomes intolerable.</p
Impact of recycled tire steel fibers on the mechanical performance of conventional and rubberized concrete: A comprehensive review
No full textIntegrating steel fibers has shown significant potential in overcoming the inherent limitations of rubberized concrete. However, the high production costs and environmental impacts associated with industrial steel fibers lessen their effectiveness in concrete. Hence, this review paper explores the potential of employing recycled tire steel fibers in ordinary and rubberized concrete as a promising alternative to industrial steel fibers. The limited studies on recycled tire steel fiber-reinforced rubberized concrete emphasize the necessity of drawing insights from industrial steel fiber-reinforced rubberized concrete. Hence, this study comprehensively assesses the use of both fibers in rubberized concrete, highlighting the beneficial influence of crack-bridging mechanisms. Furthermore, this review also examines the effectiveness and viability of employing steel fiber-reinforced rubberized concrete in real-world applications. However, this practice still demands the recovery of compressive strength compared to ordinary concrete, limiting its recommendation for structural applications. Notably, inferior rubber/cement bonds within the cement matrix compromise the robustness of the crack-bridging effect, lowering the overall mechanical performance of concrete. Hence, the necessity of integrating treated rubber particles to maximize the benefit of the synergistic influence of steel fibers and rubber particles is highlighted but remains underexplored. The substantial environmental and economic benefits of integrating recycled tire steel fiber in concrete further emphasize the necessity of enhancing their performance to encourage sustainable material utilization in concrete. By providing a critical evaluation of existing research, this paper offers a foundation to identify the limits of the mixed ratios between recycled tire steel fibers and rubber particles to optimize the mechanical performance of concrete.</p
Behind the scan: addressing the silent strain on medical radiation professionals’ mental health
No full textMedical radiation science practitioners employed as radiation therapists, radiographers and nuclear medicine technologists are leaving the profession in droves. Many of these practitioners are experiencing mental health and wellbeing issues resulting from their work. Indications are that the sector is made up of an increasingly fragile workforce and the retention of these practitioners is at a critical juncture. The mental health and wellbeing of practitioners in this context is not well supported by senior management, line managers or human resource management (HRM). The retention of these practitioners is paramount, to maintain the diagnosis and treatment capabilities of an ever-increasing patient demand. As a way forward, HRM needs to recalibrate and develop a co-designed multi-level approach with all stakeholders to better support the mental health and wellbeing of these practitioners.</p
Mental Incapacitation and Duress in the Ongwen Judgment
No full textIn 2021, Trial Chamber IX convicted Mr Dominic Ongwen of sixty-one counts of war crimes and crimes against humanity. 29 In this rewritten decision, Sophie Rigney interrogates the defence of duress to place Mr Ongwen firmly in the position of perpetrator and victim, eradicating the false dichotomy between the two. Rigney considers the constraints within which Mr Ongwen was operating and links these to broader questions of culpability. Rigney links these questions to carceral abolition movements. Ultimately, Rigney confirms the finding of the original Trial Chamber and convicts Mr Ongwen of sixty-one counts of war crimes and crimes against humanity</p
An Exploratory Investigation into Waste Management in the Fashion and Textile Industry of Bangladesh through a Circular Economy Perspective
No full textThis thesis explores the readiness of Bangladesh’s Ready-Made Garments (RMG) and textiles industry to transition from a traditional linear economic model to a circular economy (CE). Using a mixed-methods approach, the study examines how various stakeholders - manufacturers, brands, and recyclers - understand and apply CE principles. It also investigates the challenges they face and opportunities available through recycling technologies and sustainability initiatives. The global fashion and textile sector is one of the most resource-intensive and environmentally damaging industries, consuming large quantities of water and energy while generating significant waste. As one of the largest exporters in this sector, Bangladesh is under growing pressure to adopt sustainable practices. The linear model of “take-make-dispose” is proving unsustainable due to its heavy reliance on resources and high levels of waste. In contrast, CE promotes reuse, repair, recycling, and waste reduction, aiming to extend the life cycle of materials and reduce environmental impact. Although CE is widely discussed at the global level, its practical application in developing- country manufacturing remains underexplored. This study addresses that gap by focusing on Bangladesh’s RMG sector, a major contributor to both the national economy and the global fashion supply chain. The research is timely, as international brands are increasingly requiring sustainability from suppliers, creating both pressure and opportunity for transformation. The study employs concurrent mixed-methods research design. It begins with a quantitative survey involving 125 stakeholders across the supply chain and follows with in-depth interviews with 13 participants. Survey data were analysed using descriptive statistics, while interview data were explored using open, axial, and selective coding to extract key themes. This combination allows for a broad overview and deeper insights into current practices and challenges. Findings show that awareness of CE is increasing, but a full understanding of its scope remains limited. Most stakeholders associate CE with environmental goals such as waste reduction and energy efficiency. However, fewer consider its broader dimensions, including economic value creation, social inclusion, and closed-loop supply chains. This limited view restricts more comprehensive adoption of CE practices. Some circular activities are already being implemented, such as reusing production waste and limited-scale recycling. Pre-consumer textile waste - such as fabric scraps - is often sold or reused informally. Post-consumer waste, however, remains largely unmanaged due to a lack of infrastructure and low consumer participation. Recycling efforts are inconsistent, often relying on informal systems without regulatory oversight or standardisation. Several structural and institutional barriers limit broader CE adoption. These include weak policy frameworks, low levels of government support, and limited investment in recycling infrastructure. High import taxes on recycled materials discourage manufacturers from exploring alternatives to virgin inputs. Technological limitations, particularly for recycling blended fabrics and ensuring safety standards of recycled outputs, pose additional challenges. Another major issue is the imbalance of power in the global supply chain. Brands often dictate sustainability standards and purchasing terms but are reluctant to share the financial burden of implementing CE practices. As a result, local manufacturers - especially small and medium-sized enterprises, struggle to invest in the necessary tools, training, and technologies. Many factories operate on thin margins and cannot absorb the added risks or costs. Despite these challenges, there are emerging opportunities. Mechanical recycling, which uses less energy and is more suited to the local context, is gradually expanding. Pilot projects are exploring ways to manage and recycle post-consumer waste, while some international brands are beginning to collaborate with local suppliers on circular initiatives. These early partnerships around innovation and investment signal potential for wider change. Chemical recycling is also discussed as a future option, particularly for handling complex materials like blended fabrics. While not yet widespread, stakeholders view it as a long-term solution once infrastructure and investment improve. In addition, digital tools for product traceability and material tracking are being tested, which could enhance transparency and support circular business models. The research draws on transition theory to understand how long-term change can occur in complex systems. This theory suggests that transformation starts with small experiments and gradually gains momentum through shifts in policy, practice, and collaboration. The study finds that Bangladesh’s RMG industry is in the early stages of this transition. Current initiatives are largely isolated, and greater coordination is needed to turn these into mainstream practices. To support this transition, the thesis offers several practical recommendations. First, stronger policy and regulatory frameworks are needed to encourage circular practices, including tax incentives and import duty reforms that favour recycled materials. Second, investments in recycling infrastructure and technology must be scaled up. Third, digital platforms should be developed to support traceability and transparency across the supply chain. Fourth, industry-wide training and education programs are necessary to build awareness and capacity, particularly among smaller factories and workers. Encouraging wider participation from all levels of the industry is essential. SMEs, often left out of sustainability discussions, must be included through targeted support and access to funding. Collaboration between brands, manufacturers, recyclers, and policymakers will be key to creating a more inclusive and resilient circular ecosystem. By addressing power imbalances and fostering shared responsibility, the industry can move beyond isolated efforts to adopt CE as a core business approach. Overall, this thesis provides a comprehensive view of how CE is understood and practiced within Bangladesh’s RMG and textile sector. It highlights growing interest in sustainability but also significant barriers that hinder meaningful progress. Through original data collection and a structured analytical approach, the research contributes to academic literature and offers valuable guidance for policymakers and industry leaders aiming to support the country’s shift toward a more sustainable, circular future.</p
Multilayer Functionally Graded Thermal Barrier Coatings for Gas Turbine Engine Applications
No full textThermal Barrier Coatings (TBCs) are applied to protect the metallic substrates from aggressive conditions. TBCs are multi-layered systems consisting of a metallic bond coat (usually MCrAlY), a ceramic top coat (typically yttria-stabilized zirconia, YSZ), and a thermally grown oxide (TGO) layer that forms due to high-temperature oxidation. TBC allows gas turbines to operate at temperatures close to or even above the melting point of the underlying superalloy, enhancing efficiency and lifespan. This chapter emphasizes the importance of TBCs in advancing turbine technology, providing thermal insulation, oxidation resistance, and mechanical protection, all of which are essential for high-performance aircraft and industrial engines.This PhD research aimed to develop reliable, efficient, and oxidation- and hot corrosion-resistant functionally graded multilayer thermal barrier coatings (TBCs) for gas turbine components. The objective was to fabricate novel multi-layered functionally graded TBC systems using glass-ceramics as bond coat, glass-ceramic based composite as intermediate coat, and YSZ as top coat by enamelling technique and atmospheric plasma spraying (APS) technique. The developed TBCs were evaluated through microhardness test, oxidation tests and hot corrosion tests to assess their performance. Finally, the performance of these advanced TBC systems was compared with conventional TBC systems in order to determine the improvements in thermal protection, mechanical strength, and overall service life for gas turbine applications.This thesis begins with Chapter 1 introducing the critical role of gas turbine engines, which operate in extremely harsh environments characterized by high temperatures, severe mechanical loads, and exposure to corrosive and erosive conditions ensuring the durability and performance of engine components.Chapter 2 outlines the scope of the research, focusing on the challenges associated with traditional TBC systems, such as rapid failure due to delamination and spallation caused by residual stresses. In addition to that, it also aims to address these issues by exploring advanced materials, including high entropy alloys, MAX phases, and glass-ceramic composites, which offer improved thermal stability and resistance to oxidation and corrosion.Chapter 3 describes the experimental procedure used to develop and analyse the duplex and multilayered TBC systems. The substrate material chosen for this study was Nimonic Superalloy AE365, known for its high-temperature strength. The bond coat was prepared using a MgO-Al2O3-SiO2-TiO2 (MATS) based glass-ceramics reinforced with varying concentrations of YSZ particles (10 wt.%, 15 wt.%, and 25 wt.%) to enhance thermal and mechanical properties. These coatings were fabricated by the enamelling process. For the top coat, commercially available 8 wt.% YSZ was applied using APS technique. Chapter 4, 5 and 6 presents the experimental results and their interpretation. The isothermal oxidation tests were conducted at 900°C, 1000°C, and 1100°C to evaluate the oxidation resistance of the coatings. The formation of protective Al2O3 and Cr2O3 layers was observed, which effectively reduced oxygen diffusion and improved oxidation resistance. The hot corrosion tests were performed at 900°C and 1000°C, revealing minimal mass gain (0.01–0.02 mg/cm²) after 100 h, indicating excellent corrosion resistance. The presence of Na-based Al and Si compounds helped to prevent the penetration of corrosive ions, enhancing the coating’s durability. Additionally, Finite Element Analysis (FEA) using ANSYS software was employed to simulate the thermal performance of the TBC systems. The results showed a significant temperature drop of 250°C across the coating layers, demonstrating the system’s capability to reduce thermal stress and extend the lifespan of turbine components under transient thermal conditions.Chapter 7 concludes the research by summarizing the key findings. The study successfully developed duplex and triple-layered TBC systems using dense glass-ceramic and YSZ-reinforced composite coatings applied via enamelling and APS techniques. All the coatings exhibited excellent oxidation and hot corrosion resistance at high temperatures (900°C and 1000°C) while 25% YSZ-reinforced glass-ceramic coatings showed superior performance in terms of phase stability and resistance to degradation. The coatings also demonstrated the ability to maintain their structural integrity without significant property loss under harsh conditions. The FEA results confirmed that these advanced TBCs could effectively reduce substrate temperatures up to 250°C and thereby, significantly enhancing the thermal protection of gas turbine components. This temperature reduction is crucial for improving the efficiency, reliability, and lifespan of turbine engines, making these coatings promising candidates for future high-temperature applications in aerospace and power generation industries.</p
“I Felt Sad, Stupid, and Annoyed”: Characterising Primary Pre-Service Teachers’ School Mathematics Experiences Through Achievement Emotions.
No full textPre-service teachers’ (PSTs) past mathematics experiences shape their future teaching. We analysed 266 Australian PSTs’ written recollections of positive and negative school mathematics experiences using Pekrun’s Achievement Emotions Framework. Negative memories evoked shame (41%) and anxiety (32%), while positive ones reflected enjoyment (50%). We interpreted these emotions through the lenses of self-efficacy and mathematical wellbeing to understand how PSTs' emotional experiences might influence their capacity to flourish as mathematics educators. Findings reveal the lasting impact of negative experiences and the importance of supporting PSTs’ self-efficacy.</p
<i>Syn</i>- and<i> </i><i>anti</i>-rotamers of the<i> </i><i>ortho</i>-stereoisomer [Pt{(<i>o</i>-BrC<sub>6</sub>F<sub>4</sub>)N(CH<sub>2</sub>)<sub>2</sub>NEt<sub>2</sub>}Cl(py)]
No full textThe crystal structure of the ortho-isomer trans-[N-(2-bromo-3,4,5,6-tetrafluorophenyl)-N′,N′-diethylethane-1,2-diaminato(1−)]chloridopyridineplatinum(II), [PtBr0.1(C12H14BrF4N2)Cl0.9(C5H5N)][PtBr0.4(C12H14BrF4N2)Cl0.6(C5H5N)] or [Pt{(o-BrC6F4)N(CH2)2NEt2}Cl(py)], 1o, revealed syn and anti rotamers in a 1:1 ratio in the solid state. 1o crystallizes in the centrosymmetric space group P1. The Pt-coordinated Cl ligand exhibits partial occupancy with Br, predominantly in the syn-rotamer. Notably, agostic interactions are observed between the Pt centre and a H atom of one of the ethyl groups. The ortho-isomer 1o was successfully isolated as a side product from the reaction of [Pt{H2N(CH2)2NEt2}Cl2], Tl2CO3 and C6F5Br. While the para-isomer [Pt{(p-BrC6F4)N(CH2)2NEt2}Cl(py)], 1p, is the main product, the higher solubility of 1o facilitates its isolation.</p
A survey of cyber threat attribution: Challenges, techniques, and future directions
No full textThe escalating sophistication of cyberattacks, exemplified by supply chain compromises, AI-driven obfuscation, and politically motivated campaigns, makes accurate attribution a critical yet elusive challenge for national security and economic stability. The inability to reliably trace attacks to their source undermines deterrence, distorts policy responses, and erodes trust in digital ecosystems. Traditional methods struggle with the sheer volume of digital evidence, rapidly evolving adversary tactics, and the inherent complexities of cross-border operations. Moreover, existing literature often provides fragmented analyses, focuses narrowly on cyber threat intelligence sharing or specific threat types, or predates significant advancements in AI/ML tailored for attribution. This survey offers a comprehensive, interdisciplinary review of cyber threat attribution, bridging these critical gaps by systematically analyzing its multifaceted dimensions: technical, legal, geopolitical, social, and economic. Employing a rigorous, PRISMA-ScR compliant methodology that included structured screening and quality assessment across six major databases, we critically appraise current techniques and identify a paradigm shift toward data-driven, intelligent approaches. A key contribution is our novel taxonomy, which structures attribution research by attribution confidence & granularity (the Level of attribution), analytical domains (the “How” and “Where” of evidence processing) and adversarial motivation & profile (the “Why” and “Who”), providing a crucial framework for systematic cross-study comparisons in a complex field. Our findings underscore the transformative potential of emerging AI/ML techniques, particularly graph neural networks, in automating analysis, identifying subtle patterns, and extracting crucial insights from vast datasets, thereby revolutionizing attribution accuracy. This research provides actionable insights for practitioners and policymakers, offering a comprehensive roadmap to advance cyber defense and foster a more resilient and secure global digital ecosystem.</p