Training Of Engineers Research Articles

Model of Bilingual Mathematics Teaching at a Technical University

The article highlights issues related to the implementation of bilingual education in Ukrainian technical universities. The study of this problem contributes to the training of engineering specialists who are able to carry out professional activities in the conditions of a foreign-language multicultural environment. The model and levels of implementation of bilingual higher mathematics teaching/learning for students of engineering and technical specialties is considered. It is noted that the system of bilingual education should be integrated into the general model of the organization of training engineering personnel in a specific specialty. The formation of a certain level of students' foreign language communicative competence is considered as a criterion for the allocation of training stages. The following stages of bilingual mathematics teaching/learning in technical university are distinguished: preparatory, transitional, actual bilingual. Each stage of bilingual teaching/learning is analyzed in detail from the following points: 1) direction of content (socio-cultural, mathematical, scientific), main unit of content (bilingual didactic element, bilingual subject-thematic module, discipline in a foreign language); 2) organizational forms and methods of training (integrated lectures and practical classes; conversation; project activity; information technologies; traditional, developing learning methods; elective course, special course or optional classes; text information activity; solving language tasks; methods of active learning; soft immersion; problem-based learning, independent work with educational and scientific literature); 3) the ratio of native and foreign languages (duplicative model, additive model, parity model and displacing model). The designed model of bilingual mathematics teaching/learning ensures the formation of bilingual subject competence in mathematics and provides an interdisciplinary synthesis of subject, linguistic, general technical (engineering) and cultural components.

Using Peer Assessment Leveraging Large Language Models in Software Engineering Education

This paper explores the integration of generative AI and large language models into the realm of software engineering education and training, with a specific focus on the transformation of traditional peer assessment methodologies. The motivation stems from the growing demand for innovative educational techniques that can effectively engage and empower learners in mastering Software Engineering principles. The proposed approach involves presenting students with modeling exercises solved by ChatGPT, prompting them to critically evaluate and provide constructive feedback on the generated solutions. By engaging students in a dialogue with the AI model, we aim to foster a dynamic learning environment where learners can articulate their considerations and insights, thereby enhancing their comprehension of software engineering principles, critical thinking and self evaluation skills. Preliminary results from pilot implementations indicate promising outcomes, suggesting that this approach not only enhances the quality of peer feedback but also contributes to a more interactive and engaging educational experience.

HARNESSING GROUP THEORY FOR SIMPLIFIED ELECTRIC CIRCUIT ANALYSIS

Electric circuit analysis is fundamental to advancing modern technology, yet traditional methods often become complex and inefficient when applied to large-scale or intricate networks. Group theory, a branch of abstract algebra renowned for its capacity to exploit symmetry, has shown promise as a solution to this challenge. By applying group theoretical principles to circuit analysis, particularly through symmetry operations and transformation groups, engineers can simplify complex systems, reducing computational demands and revealing deeper insights into circuit behavior. Through systematic symmetry-based simplifications, group theory can decrease the number of equations required by up to 40% in certain configurations, enhancing both analytical efficiency and practical implementation. However, challenges include the mathematical complexity inherent to group theory, the limitations in analyzing highly irregular or nonlinear circuits, and the need for compatible computational tools. Recommendations include the integration of group theoretical approaches into standard circuit analysis software, focused training for electrical engineers, and further research to address the application of these methods in emerging technologies such as quantum and neuromorphic computing. Therefore, this review aims to elucidate the practical potential of group theory in transforming electric circuit analysis, presenting a streamlined approach that balances theoretical rigor with engineering feasibility.

Cloud-Based Automatic Configuration and Disaster Recovery of Communication Systems Applied in Engineering Training

Network management and troubleshooting require not only a grasp of advanced concepts but also the development of analytical and problem-solving skills. To bridge this gap, this paper introduces a novel network administration system, DRACSC (Spanish acronym for device for automatic recovery and configuration of communication systems), designed for the automatic configuration and disaster recovery of communication equipment. This system transcends the limitations of current hardware and software solutions by combining their advantages, boasting portability, automated functions, and a cloud-based repository as its main features. The DRACSC system, undergoing a comprehensive large-scale evaluation involving diverse user groups across multiple institutions, was tested with 89 users, including students and teachers at educational centers and ICT (Information and Communication Technology) professionals. The benefits of the system were evaluated through a training program based on simulated real-world ICT environments, focusing on both quantitative results on the reduction in time to complete user tasks, as well as qualitative results on the interface and usability of the system. Statistical analysis, including Welch’s t-test on opinion surveys, indicated a significant increase in knowledge and understanding, demonstrating the system’s potential to enhance education and practice. Moreover, the evaluation shed light on the user experience, with positive impacts observed for learning and teaching implications. As a result, the study has verified that the system has the potential to significantly influence network management practices, enhancing both learning and professional application through improved efficiency and usability.

Cybersecurity in Prognostics and Health Management

PHM continues to show its value by improving operational efficiencies, increasing safety, reducing downtime, and decreasing cost of operations. PHM technologies are therefore not only being deployed as retrofit solutions but are being integrated into new systems as standard practice. Deployment covers areas such as medical equipment, nuclear power plants, aeronautics applications, oil and gas, mining, and many others. As the impact of PHM increases, it is imperative to also consider the potential vulnerabilities that are being exposed. Hackers have famously used Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) and Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) systems to sabotage industrial facilities. As such, it is important to understand the exposure to malfeasance to ensure that PHM does not end up being the enabling mechanism for unauthorized access to the system it is meant to keep in running order. It is also important to understand the measures that need to be taken to avoid or respond to an attack. These range from extensive penetration testing to conducting extensive counter-social engineering training, setting up a PHM-specific CERT plan and team in place. This paper discusses various threats that are emerging and that may have to be considered when designing a PHM solution. Additionally, the NIST cybersecurity framework is discussed in the context of PHM. Finally, this paper looks at the diagnostic capabilities of PHM systems to detect cyber security attacks and to contain these threats.

Evaluation of the Implementation of Project-Based-Learning in Engineering Programs: A Review of the Literature

Project-Based Learning (PBL), as an experiential methodology, improves learning outcomes and competencies (technical and non-technical) in engineering students. The Conceive–Design–Implement–Operate (CDIO) approach, adopted globally in engineering education, is based on PBL but expands the curriculum framework. Developed by MIT and the Royal Institute of Technology (KTH) in Sweden, CDIO focuses on the entire life cycle of engineering projects to train engineers so that they are capable of applying knowledge in real-life situations. Integrating CDIO and PBL into engineering curricula requires changes in teaching methodologies, teacher training and workspaces. The literature has explored their combination, highlighting shared values and mutual reinforcements. An assessment model is crucial for implementing PBL and evidencing improvement in student and course skills. Only through assessment and the cycle of continuous improvement will the adoption of PBL in engineering programs be advanced. A systematic review of the literature is proposed to identify effective methods in the evaluation of educational programs based on PBL, analyzing related research areas and evaluations according to the CDIO approach.

Analysis of the use of intelligent education technologies

The article presents an analysis and prospects for the application of intelligent technologies in the field of education. In the study, the author made an attempt to experimentally test the effectiveness of pedagogical conditions for the use of intelligent educational technologies in the training of marine engineers and transport logistics specialists. The experimental search work on the use of intelligent educational technologies (IOT) in the context of educational platforms Google Meet, Discord, EIOS in the course of training in the discipline "Freight forwarding services" is summarized.

Discovery and Underground Mining of Large Deposits: Essential Training to Ensure Copper Supply

Editor’s note: The aim of the Geology and Mining series is to introduce early career professionals and students to various aspects of mineral exploration, development, and mining in order to share the experiences and insight of each author on the myriad of topics involved with the mineral industry and the ways in which geoscientists contribute to each. Abstract A supply shortfall of at least 6 million tonnes (Mt) Cu is expected by 2031—with total demand now forecast to increase from 25 Mt in 2023 to >36 Mt, and possibly to a suggested 50 Mt by 2050—given the present trend in demand. The deficit can be partially filled by increased mine production, expanding currently installed mine production capacity, and increasing Cu recycling. However, satisfying demand in 2050 as the demand-to-mining supply gap increases will require the accelerated discovery of at least five large Cu deposits—individually producing >0.5 to >1.0 Mt/yr Cu—and their related mine development, by 2030. These five deposit discoveries are required to replace mines scheduled to close in the 2050s, given the >20 years needed to take a deposit from discovery to mine production. The two largest sources of Cu supply, porphyry and sediment-hosted Cu deposits, can potentially fill the gap if enough discoveries are made; however, there is no evidence that this is about to occur. Future porphyry Cu discoveries are expected to be mined underground, mostly by a caving method. The demand increase is occurring at a time when the capital intensity of porphyry Cu mine development has almost doubled since 2006. We predict that the only solution to the future Cu demand-supply challenge for society and the mining industry in the short to medium term rests with simple demand-supply economics and a substantially increased Cu price. Copper substitution by other materials and recycling could potentially benefit from a significantly increased price; however, the major advantage will be conferred on deposits amenable to open-pit mining that are undeveloped because of price-dependent, failed feasibility studies. The challenge of possibly doubling Cu supply by ca. 2050 through developing mines on large Cu deposits—both discovered and undiscovered, in an unprecedented number and in a shorter period—will require a major increase in the number of competent mining industry personnel. This comes at a time when the industry faces an aging workforce, leading to a critical skills gap compounded by a chronic shortage of students graduating in the sciences and engineering with mining-related university degrees. There is an acute shortage of experienced professionals in cave mining, and the substantial number of open-pit mining professionals who are predicted to retire by 2030 will need to be replaced. On-the-job training of geoscientists and engineers after graduation, delivered by experienced practitioners through university-accredited professional development programs, is suggested as the solution.

Natural and anthropogenic factors that determine the activity of geological processes of the Abakan agglomeration

Relevance. As a result of the construction and operation of buildings and structures within the Abakan agglomeration, there is an activation of existing and the formation of new engineering and geological processes accompanied by accidental destruction of constructions. In order to minimize economic and socio-environmental damage, timely development of scientifically sound urban planning and architectural planning solutions is necessary. It would take into account the results of design studies of engineering protection of the territory from dangerous manifestations of engineering and geological processes. Generalization of the available survey results in order to typify the engineering and geological conditions of the urban area will optimize the construction development of urban areas, develop reliable schemes of engineering protection against the manifestations of dangerous engineering and geological processes. Aim. To establish natural and anthropogenic factors that determine the activity of dangerous geological processes in the territory of the Abakan agglomeration. Methods. Collection, systematization and analysis of available territorial geological, hydrological, hydrogeological, environmental information, results of engineering surveys. Results and conclusions. At a qualitatively new level, a set of maps has been compiled on the factors that determine the development of dangerous geological processes. The authors have carried out a GIS analysis of morphometric indicators of the relief of the agglomeration territory: maps of the steepness and exposure of the slopes were constructed. The analysis of the collected data made it possible to establish the regional characteristics of the components of the geological environment and propose a zoning scheme for the territory for its construction development and engineering protection. The authors identified four taxa during zoning: territories favorable for construction that do not require significant engineering training; territories conditionally favorable for construction, requiring preliminary engineering training; territories conditionally unfavorable for construction, requiring significant costs for engineering training; territories unfavorable for construction. The boundaries of the taxa are based on the analysis of the geomorphological features of the territory. The conducted research was performed for the agglomeration territory for the first time.

Heteroatom‐induced tensile strain in copper lattice boosts CO2 electroreduction toward multi‐carbon products

AbstractStrain engineering on metal‐based catalysts has been utilized as an efficacious strategy to regulate the mechanism and pathways in various electrocatalytic reactions. However, controlling strain and establishing the strain‐activity relationship still remain significant challenges. Herein, three different and continuous tensile strains (CuPd‐1.90%, CuAu‐3.37%, and CuAg‐4.33%) are successfully induced by introducing heteroatoms with different atomic radius. The catalytic performances of CuPd‐1.90%, CuAu‐3.37%, and CuAg‐4.33% display a positive correlation against tensile strains in electrochemical CO2 reduction reaction (CO2RR). Specifically, CuAg‐4.33% exhibits superior catalytic performance with a 77.9% Faradaic efficiency of multi‐carbon products at −300 mA cm−2 current density, significantly higher than those of pristine Cu (Cu‐0%). Theoretical calculations and in situ spectroscopies verify that tensile strain can affect the d‐band center of Cu, thereby altering the binding energy of *CO intermediates and Gibbs free energies of the C–C coupling procedure. This work might highlight a new method for precisely regulating the lattice strain of metallic catalysts in different electrocatalytic reactions.

Lessons learned from implementing a Human Factors programme into an NHS trust*

The interest in employing Human Factors (HF) in healthcare is increasing. There are very few papers that outline an approach to embedding the practical application of HF in healthcare and the lessons that can be learned. The SCReaM HF and Team Resource Management (TRM) programme is not only aimed at raising the awareness and understanding of the science of HF within healthcare, but also to embed its practical application to support staff improve their safety and wellbeing and that of their patients. The programme is divided into three strands: rolling training, HF Projects and HF Engineering. Each strand of the programme supports the use of HF by teaching and applying systems thinking methodology. The programme has been embedded into an NHS Trust and this paper provides a reflection on the approach used to help guide future attempts to integrate HF into an NHS trust.

Approaches to the Training of Engineering Personnel in the Context of Digital Transformation of Education

The relevance of the article is due to the increased importance of training engineering personnel in the context of the global digital transformation of the economy and social sphere, as well as the rapid acceleration of the pace of technological development. In order to avoid Russia's technological lag behind leading countries in the field of implementation and use of digital technologies in a variety of fields of activity, attention should be paid to the organization and content of higher technical education. The author considers it necessary to use competency-based and interdisciplinary approaches as basic ones when teaching the disciplines of the humanities and socio-economic blocks for future engineers. As part of the competency-based approach in the context of the digital transformation of education, it is proposed to actively use the gamification method in the educational process due to its obvious advantages: increasing the involvement of students in the educational process, increasing the motivation of students, etc. To substantiate the findings, a set of scientific methods and approaches was used: analysis and synthesis, comparisons, generalizations, scientific abstractions.

SYSTEM CHARACTERISTICS OF THE PROFESSIONAL TRAINING OF FUTURE SPECIALISTS OF THE ENGINEERING TROOPS

The specifics of the educational process of military educational institutions (combination of military and civilian specialties in one educational program; the need to acquire a volume of knowledge that enables a graduate to solve military-professional tasks without experience of performing official duties) necessitates changes to the military-professional training of cadets, in particular, future specialists of engineering troops. The main purpose of article is to outline the basic system characteristics of the professional training of future engineering troops. During the work on the article, the following methods were used: theoretical analysis of scientific literature on the research problem for the selection and understanding of didactic material; critical analysis of concepts, theories and methods in order to determine ways to solve the problem under study. The generated changes should be implemented systematically and cover the entire process of military professional training of military engineers; to take into account the key requirements for the training of future specialists of the engineering troops (correspondence of the content of the engineering training to the nature of the service and combat activities of the troops and the tasks being performed, to the features of the areas of future actions; the study of scientific achievements, the experience of engineering support for the operations of the troops during martial law in various conditions and their introduction into the practice of engineering training; effective use and development of educational material base). The system characteristics of the training of future specialists of engineering troops are, in particular, compliance by military educational institutions and special training centers with a set of requirements of educational and professional standards. These standards reflect the vision of the state, society and the Ministry of Defense of the integral personality of future specialists of engineering troops. The system levers of improving the military professional training of military engineers include the improvement of the quality of military training of mobilized and servicemen, as a certain balanced compliance with the needs of the state, the Armed Forces of Ukraine (AFU), the higher military school. Realization of the potential of information technologies is an important factor in the innovation of training of military engineers. The use of information technologies usually involves a change in the actual logic of the educational (training) process, the vector of which is already directed not from theory to practice, but from gaining new experience to its theoretical awareness. At the same time, increasing the efficiency of training military specialists is made possible by intensifying the process of understanding, assimilation, and creative application of knowledge when solving practical tasks. Intensification of the process of professional training of future specialists of the engineering forces in the conditions of an electronic informational educational environment is implemented by: ensuring the necessary access to sources of information that expands the boundaries of the worldview of listeners and cadets; creation of conditions and opportunities for quick and effective search, processing, analysis, and saving of the necessary information.

Training of future ship engineers and electricians by means of competence, communicative and interdisciplinary approaches

The article examines the peculiarities of future ship engineers and electricians education by means of competence, communicative and interdisciplinary approaches; emphasis is placed on the interdisciplinary connections of the disciplines of different cycles of training; it is underlined that the process of future seafarers education should be based on a competent, communicative and interdisciplinary approach, which will provide future specialists with efficiency in acquiring knowledge, skills and abilities. The important competencies are defined in research by the educational goals of the competency-based approach that include knowledge and understanding (theoretical knowledge of an academic discipline, the ability to know and understand); knowledge of how to act (practical or operational application of knowledge in certain situations); knowledge of how to live (values as an integral element of perception and coexistence with others in a social context). The interdisciplinary approach is an interdisciplinary movement of knowledge towards integrity, which involves a systematic study of the object and is a logical result of changes in each of the interacting knowledge systems, and is the source of the emergence of new trends towards their integration. The study notes that the use of competency-based and interdisciplinary approaches contributes to the effective planning of professional training of a specialist; the analysis of the situation with the influence of interdisciplinary and competence approaches on the sequence of presentation of educational material when studying the disciplines of different training cycles allows to say that the use of these approaches contributes both to the in-depth assimilation of knowledge and skills by cadets and enriches their horizons allowing to establish relationships and interdependencies in the process of their education. Attention is drawn to the fact that the communicative approach in studying the disciplines of the cycle of humanitarian and socio-economic education will contribute not only to communicative knowledge and skills (frequency, accuracy in formulating statements, the correct use of existing samples and the construction of one's own), but will also produce such universal skills as teamwork, creativity, flexibility, etc. It has been proven that there is a need to apply the principles of interdisciplinary and competency-based approaches in educational and professional programs, training programs, curricula for more effective mastery of the future profession by ship engineers and electricians

Strain engineering of the structural, electronic, and optical properties of phosphorene‐like ZnS ceramic nanolayers: Density functional theory study

AbstractStrain engineering is a powerful technique for controlling the performance of semiconductor ceramic systems. In this article, the effect of strain engineering, specifically biaxial compressive and tensile strains, on the bonding characteristics, structure, electronic, and optical properties of nonplanar phosphorene‐like (NPP) ZnS ceramic nanolayers was investigated using density functional theory. It was observed that this ceramic exhibits greater stability under significant tensile strains. The structural stability of NPP‐ZnS ceramic, both with and without biaxial strain, was confirmed by its negative formation energy. Biaxial strain strongly influences the electronic band structure of NPP‐ZnS ceramic nanolayers, leading to a transformation from a direct band gap to an indirect gap under tensile strain. Additionally, the bandgap decreases under compressive strain, while it slightly increases under tensile strain. Various optical properties, including refractive index, extinction coefficient, absorption, reflectivity, optical conductivity, and optical susceptibility, were calculated. Biaxial compressive and tensile strains alter the optical properties, shifting them to higher or lower frequencies. NPP‐ZnS ceramic nanolayers exhibit high optical absorption in the UV range, which can be further enhanced by biaxial strain. Furthermore, under increasing compressive strain, the absorption edge moves toward higher energies. This improvement in optical absorption expands the potential applications of NPP‐ZnS ceramic nanolayers in optoelectronic devices.

Entrepreneurial training engineering and its mechanisms in the academic environment

This study aimed to investigate whether Algerian universities design entrepreneurial training programs effectively. It highlighted key concepts related to training, training evaluation, training design, entrepreneurship, entrepreneurial spirit, and entrepreneurial training, as well as the essential components of both international and local entrepreneurial training programs that could foster an entrepreneurial spirit among students. The study reviewed the strategies and teaching programs for entrepreneurial education, detailing the current state of entrepreneurial training in Algerian universities, schools, non-university entities (such as entrepreneurial centers, scientific clubs and cultural associations, business incubators, and support and mentoring agencies). The applied study was a survey of a sample of students from the Faculty of Economics, Business, and Management Sciences at the University of Oran 2. The study revealed several findings, including that entrepreneurial training design focuses on establishing the characteristics of an entrepreneur in terms of traits and preparing students for the economic environment. Based on these findings, it is necessary to amend the programs, strategies, methods, and tools of entrepreneurial training. Additionally, an entrepreneurship course should be incorporated into all university disciplines.

Implementation of the practice-oriented mathematics teaching methodology to future rescue engineers

Introduction. In modern conditions, the practice-oriented training of rescue engineers, whose professional activities are associated with high-risk situations, is being updated. The purpose of the study is to describe the implementation of the author's methodology of practical-oriented training in mathematics of future specialists in fire and technosphere safety and experimental verification of efficiency. Materials and methods. The experimental training was attended by 685 students of the Donetsk Institute of the State Fire Service (Russian Federation), studying in the specialty "Fire safety" and the areas of training "Technosphere safety" (321 students in experimental groups, 347 in control groups). Methods of mathematical statistics: Wilcoxon signed-rank test, Fisher's exact test, Chi square test, Student's t-test. Results. The methodology of practice-oriented teaching mathematics to future rescue engineers has been developed. Mathematical training of students based on a practice-oriented approach ensures the formation of students' practice-oriented skills and mathematical modeling skills in the field of civil protection, as well as the development of personal qualities of a rescuer. Practice-oriented learning technologies are used: integration of educational and future professional activities of students, educational and practice-oriented research activities. Practice-oriented teaching methods are used (imitation of the practical activities of rescue engineers, "rapid response" and practice-oriented visualization of mathematical objects). The implementation of the developed teaching methodology contributes to the effective formation of practice-oriented mathematical competence among students (T = 0.32, α = 0.05). Conclusions. The implementation of practical-oriented training in mathematics of future specialists methodology in fire and technosphere safety contributes to increasing the level of development of practical-oriented mathematical competence due to the formation of personal qualities of the rescue engineer and his value orientations, knowledge of mathematical and practical-oriented knowledge, skills and methods of activity in mathematical and computer modeling.

On improving the efficiency of providing budgetary places in Russian universities (on the example of engineering and technical areas of study)

Relevance. In the current economic and political conditions in Russia, there is an acute shortage of welltrained engineers, and not only in the IT field. In order to overcome this problem, the state annually raises the admission target numbers (CAP) for technical educational programs. This increases the amount of public funding for universities (both per capita and for general development); it is measured in hundreds of billions of rubles, which requires studying the efficiency of resource use. The purpose of the article is, based on the results of a comprehensive empirical analysis, to identify the key problems that reduce the effectiveness of state financing of state-funded places in engineering and technical areas, and to substantiate proposals for minimizing them. Methodology and methods. The methodological basis is a systematic approach, within which general scientific methods (deduction, induction, generalization, comparative analysis, etc.) were used, as well as special economic and statistical research methods. Results and scientific novelty. It was revealed that the use of the current methodology for the distribution of CSC by the Ministry of Education and Science of Russia leads to the fact that a significant part of budget places in engineering and technical areas of study are occupied by students with low (18.2% excluding IT areas) and extremely low (at least 14.5 %) by the level of incoming knowledge. In a number of areas, the proportion of such students reaches 87%, despite the fact that ¾ of the applicants have an extremely weak physical and mathematical base (within the framework of the school course). The actual scale of the problems turned out to be greater due to the non-linear scale of the Unified State Examination, “tuned” by the Ministry of Education of Russia to overestimate the score for “C” students. Taken together, this naturally leads to the training of engineers of the appropriate level at the state expense. A set of measures is substantiated to change the methodology for distributing budgetary places, aimed at improving the efficiency of the use of public funding. Practical significance. The results of the study can be used by the Ministry of Education and Science of Russia, as well as by the administrations of technical universities to improve the quality of applicants for engineering education programs.

An in-vitro method for comparative analysis of aspiration catheter tracking performance.

Mechanical thrombectomy (MT) for acute ischemic stroke (AIS) relies on efficient tracking of aspiration catheters through complex vascular anatomies. Differences in catheter design lead to variation in tracking performance which may only become apparent after use in patients. We developed an in-vitro methodology for evaluating aspiration catheter performance under a variety of pre-defined circumstances, that can be used during catheter development for design optimization. Validation of the in-vitro methodology involved testing four large bore aspiration catheters on recreated challenging vascular access routes derived from patient angiograms. Two experienced neurointerventionalists conducted the tests under controlled physiological and procedural conditions. Each catheter design was evaluated across 30 unique anatomy-procedural set-up combinations. A fifth, prototype large bore catheter was evaluated by trained engineers to assess the applicability of the in-vitro test. Results from statistical analysis using a general linear model demonstrated the methodology's effectiveness in detecting significant tracking differences among catheter designs (p < 0.01). Minimal inter-operator variability was observed (p = 0.304), while procedural techniques significantly influenced tracking performance (p < 0.01). The tortuosity of the arterial access route notably impacted catheter performance (p < 0.01), with anatomical features revealing varying degrees of influence on desirable and undesirable catheter design aspects. We successfully developed a test methodology for evaluating the trackability of large bore aspiration catheters intended for treating acute ischemic stroke with large vessel occlusions. This methodology offers a robust approach to pre-clinical design assessment, utilizing anatomical models that simulate real-world vascular challenges to enhance catheter optimization.

Educating non-specialized audiences about seismic design principles using videos and physical models

The prevalence of self-construction practices in Türkiye has resulted in a building stock whose earthquake resilience is highly uncertain. To mitigate the potentially devastating impact of anticipated large earthquakes, one viable approach is to increase earthquake awareness among builders themselves. However, these builders lack formal engineering training and are ordinary citizens. Therefore, the challenge lies in devising visual teaching methods, such as short videos, to explain complex seismic phenomena in a comprehensible manner. This paper introduces the use of educational media tailored for non-specialized audiences, encompassing regular citizens and students without engineering backgrounds. These videos are based on experiments conducted with physical models on a homemade shake table. They focus on key factors influencing the seismic response of multi-storey buildings and highlight common design and construction errors that lead to building damage. To assess the effectiveness of this approach, we conducted a workshop with junior architecture students, followed by post-workshop qualitative assessments through knowledge surveys and interviews. The findings indicate that while single-topic videos were effective learning tools for students without prior knowledge of seismic building design, students found models particularly useful for explaining specific concepts such as torsional behavior, the role of diaphragms, and the performance of non-structural components. However, despite positive feedback on the effectiveness of model testing, students generally did not perceive significant knowledge acquisition in model construction. Ultimately, the accessibility of freely available videos, coupled with their enhanced educational value, makes them effective tools for raising seismic awareness in communities vulnerable to future earthquakes.