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Dynamical modeling and state estimations of gasoline and ethanol impingement sprays in GDI systems using experimental and state-space based approaches
No full textThis study presents a comparative experimental and modeling analysis of the impingement spray characteristics of gasoline and ethanol using a high-pressure gasoline direct injection (GDI) injector. We develop Lyapunov-Based approach to estimate key spray characteristics including rebound height with aid of MATLAB-based experimental data processing algorithms, both qualitative and quantitative assessments are provided, as well as forecast of the state of these characteristics in future time intervals. We present a combined experimental and modeling approach for analyze the impingement spray behavior of gasoline and ethanol using a GDI injector considering base experimental results obtained in [3] where macroscopic properties were investigated via high-speed Schlieren imaging and Phase Doppler Particle Analysis (PDPA) across injection pressures ranging from 10 to 50 MPa. Data-Driven modeling was supported by MATLAB-based polynomial curve fitting and system identification techniques. Key findings reveal that gasoline exhibits superior spray penetration and atomization compared to ethanol, particularly at ultra-high pressures. This suggests that gasoline atomization could significantly enhance combustion efficiency and emissions reduction in GDI engines
Constructing the university student in British popular culture
No full textThe Students on Screen research project examines how screen representations of university students produce, frame, inform and contribute to complex understandings about what it might mean to be a university student. A limitation of the existing literature examining media representations of students is that much of this work is produced from an academic standpoint (including our own publications), rather than involving students in a co-produced analysis of their positioning as university students. With funding from Research England, three university students were appointed as research assistants to help examine three television dramas – Clique (BBC, 2017-2018), Normal People (BBC, 2020) and Big Boys (Channel 4, 2022-2025). Through this co-constructed analysis, we have sought to identify current concerns and anxieties about the lives and experiences of university students. In this paper, we explore themes relating to mental health, forms of exploitation, and transitions to adulthood. We also critically consider the positioning of the university itself, and to what extent higher education is currently framed as a ‘dark economy’ in British popular culture
Nonlinear dynamics of militarization and income inequality nexus in post-socialist Eastern Europe: a panel kink regression analysis (1990-2023)
Get PDFThis paper examines the relationship between militarization, and income inequality in Eastern Bloc European countries from 1990 to 2023 – a period marked by post-socialist transition, economic upheaval, and political instability. The region’s unique geopolitical position and complex socio-political structure have contributed to widening socioeconomic disparities and rising militarization. Using a panel kink regression (PKR) model with the Global Militarisation Index and GINI index, we identify a critical threshold beyond which militarisation’s effect on inequality reverses. Below this point, militarization modestly reduces inequality; above it, further increases worsen disparities. These findings underline the need for balanced policies that promote both security and social equity in the region
AI in information processing for decision making - perceptions and use intention of UK managers
No full textInformation processing forms an essential part of any decision making process as it enables decision makers to assess various options, evaluate risks and opportunities to make best choices. In the context of business decision making, information processing also enable managers to make decisions that align with organizational goals and objectives. However, business managers are facing unprecedented challenges in dealing with ever growing abundant data and struggling to make sense of it to make well informed decisions. As Artificial Intelligence (AI) is making profound impact on every aspect of business operations and management, it has the great potential in assisting/replacing business managers’ information processing activities Although the use of AI in decision making in general has attracted significant attention from researchers and practitioners, its specific role and impact on business information processing at the individual manager level have not been well explored and examined theoretically and empirically. To address this knowledge gap, the study reported in this short paper aims to empirically investigate the current challenges faced by business managers and their perception and intention in utilising AI for information processing in their decision making process. Three key research questions covering perceived challenges, AI roles and use intention are raised. A questionnaire survey was conducted in the UK to collect data to understand the managers perceptions and use intention. Preliminary data analysis provides very interesting findings and valuable insights. Important implications for theory development and research directions are highlighted
Effects of a whole-school relationships and sexual health intervention on non-competent sexual debut:cluster-randomised trial
Get PDFBACKGROUND: Relationships and sex education (RSE) impacts some sexual behaviours but could be strengthened by incorporating whole-school approaches (eg, building engagement, providing contraception). These can prevent pregnancies and sexually-transmitted infections but are unevaluated in UK schools.METHODS: A cluster-randomised trial of 'Positive Choices' compared it with usual practice in English secondary schools. Intervention comprised: RSE, school-health-promotion councils involving students, student-needs data to tailor provision; student-led campaigns; review of sexual-health services; and parent information. The primary outcome was prevention of non-competent sexual debut (lacking decision autonomy, judging timing as right, partners' equal willingness or contraception).RESULTS: Of 2845 schools invited, 50 (1.76%) consented, 1 leaving post-allocation. Of 25 control and 24 intervention schools, 4 withdrew pre-endline. 6970 (77.3%) students participated at baseline and 6268 (77.9%) at 33-month endline. Fidelity of whole-school components was suboptimal. No schools achieved 'good' fidelity; two achieved 'adequate' fidelity across components. 11 achieved 'adequate fidelity on selected components' (student-needs report, school-health-promotion council meetings, lessons, parent information). Control schools delivered similar activities to intervention schools. Among 780 (12.44%) students sexually debuting between baseline and endline, non-competent debut was reported by 268 (64.42%) in the control and 240 (65.93%) in the intervention group (risk difference=0.020 (95% CI -0.05 to 0.09)). There were no effects on secondary outcomes. Incremental costs were £1337 per school (£10 per student).CONCLUSION: Positive Choices did not prevent non-competent sexual debut (primary outcome) or impact secondary outcomes compared with usual RSE, possibly explained by weak fidelity of whole-school elements and/or comprehensive RSE in control schools.TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER: ISRCTN16723909.</p
Factors that influence the commissioning and implementation of integrated care for adults at risk of cardiovascular disease and mild-to-moderate mental health concerns in the UK:a systematic review protocol
Get PDFBACKGROUND: Cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors and mild-to-moderate mental health concerns (anxiety, depression) often co-occur and can worsen individual health outcomes, increase healthcare burden, and related costs relative to non-co/multi-morbidity. Existing evidence from both staff and service users suggests that integrating care for this population can be beneficial but challenging. Therefore, it is important that the key influences on integrated care are mapped to behavioural science frameworks so that intervention strategies in the system are actionable. This review aims to synthesise findings on which individual, organisational, social, and system-level factors influence integrated care for people experiencing co-occurring CVD risk factors and mild-to-moderate mental health concerns from the perspective of a range of health and social care professionals.METHODS: This systematic review will search MEDLINE, Embase, Emcare, PsycInfo, CINAHL, and grey literature in PsyArXiv and HMIC. Included studies will be qualitative primary research published in the English language reporting on the factors that influence the commissioning and implementation of integrated care for adults at risk of CVD and experiencing mild-to-moderate mental health concerns. This will be from the perspective of healthcare professionals, managers, commissioners, and policymakers. A thematic synthesis will identify relevant actions, actors, context, targets, and timeframes using the AACTT framework, and influences on actors' behaviour will be mapped to the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR) and the Theoretical Domains Framework (TDF).DISCUSSION: Data from this review will provide insight for a larger NHIR-funded programme of work that aims to optimise Integrated Care Services (OptICS) that will develop a whole-systems map to identify appropriate targets and intervention strategies to optimise integrated care. This review will offer a novel contribution to knowledge by synthesising qualitative evidence from a range of stakeholders on the influences on commissioning and implementation of integrated care for adults with physical and mental health comorbidities, mapped to complementary implementation frameworks.SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION: PROSPERO CRD42024554221.</p
Healthcare providers’ perceptions of dementia: understanding help-seeking behaviour for dementia in northern region of Ghana
No full textCrossing power borders in a tight silk suit: loci of power in A troche y moche by Gustavo Sainz
Get PDFThis study considers how the fluidity of power loci, in terms of text ownership, replaces the static nature of hegemonic relationships between the protagonist and the characters in Gustavo Sainz’s novel A troche y moche (2002). The key aspect of this study of power loci and power border crossing is the analysis of the complexity of the dominance/subordination dichotomy. Using the theories of hegemonic masculinity and posthegemony, the essay examines the fluid nature of borders between the power loci of the writer-protagonist, his associates, and his kidnappers
AI and forensics security with cloud, networks impact on education
No full textLarge Language Models (LLMs) have demonstrated significant potential to revolutionize higher education, prompting a need for strategic guidance on leveraging their benefits while addressing associated challenges [1]. This paper reaches into the critical role of cloud computing in enabling the smooth integration and sustainable transformation of Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) through LLMs. By examining the mutually beneficial relationship between LLMs and cloud technologies, this paper highlights how the cloud empowers HEIs to utilize the full potential of LLMs, overcoming challenges related to scalability, accessibility, and cost-effectiveness. The paper presents a comprehensive framework for the strategic integration of LLMs and cloud computing within HEIs, addressing key considerations such as data privacy, security, interoperability, and ethical governance. Through a systematic review of case studies and best practices, the paper offers actionable insights and recommendations for HEIs to navigate the complexities of LLM deployment in the cloud era. The findings emphasize the importance of a holistic, collaborative approach that engages diverse stakeholders, prioritizes data management, and aligns with the core values of higher education. By incorporating the merging of LLMs and cloud computing, HEIs can unlock new limits in personalized learning, research innovation, and societal impact, ultimately redefining the landscape of higher education in the Artificial Intelligence (AI)-driven era. Keywords: Large language models, higher education institutions, cloud, Intergration, Computer Laws, Digital Forensics, Curriculum Strateg
Clinical management of frailty:advances and challenges
No full textFrailty was first described in the general population living in the community. Its characteristics, components, underlying mechanisms, screening and diagnostic criteria, prognosis, and indeed prevention and treatment have been developed and tested usually in older people in non-clinical settings. However, many of the adverse outcomes are closely related with events leading to clinical settings or taking place in those settings, so it is not surprising that the prevalence of frailty is extremely high in hospital and other clinical environments, being hospitalization one of the main factors accounting for the poor prognosis of older frail people.</p
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