Engineering Tools Research Articles

L’excès de consommation des technologies et le dévergondage érotique dans les romans d’Anne Françoise Garréta et de Christine Ango

Abstract. The 21st century is dominated by New Information and Communication Technologies (NICT). It is also the time of indecent sexual practices. These two factors, objects of exaggerated consumption by society and supposed to actively contribute to the construction of the human species, have instead become paths to perdition and deconstruction of the nature of man par excellence. Anne Françoise Garréta, in Decomposition and Sphinx and Christine Angot in Incest exhibit this world of technological excess and trivial erotic landscape. In their works, technologies are misused by the protagonist and end up taming him. Also sexuality, leaving its ruts of delicacy, is exhibited in the public square, thus becoming a deviant practice and precipitating the individual to his own destruction. These two factors are the making of an unprecedented social mediocrity and serving ethics by the construction of a world of moral maturity. This study aims to reveal that the Garretian and Angotian texts, in both form and content, are impacted by technological tools and the sexual mediocrity of the actors in the narration. The two authors use the novel to challenge man on the excessive use of technologies and the sexual perversity that prevails in society. Mots-clés : Révolutions, Technologies, Consommation, Sexualité, Éthique. Keywords: Revolution, Technology, Consumerism, Sexuality, Ethics

Machine learning techniques for predicting the peak response of reinforced concrete beam subjected to impact loading

To meet the growing need for resilient structures in seismic and high-impact zones, accurate prediction of the response of reinforced concrete (RC) beams under impact loads is essential. Traditional methods, such as experimental testing and high fidelity finite element models, are often time consuming and resource intensive. To address these challenges, this study investigates various ensemble and non-ensemble machine learning techniques—including support vector machine, gaussian process regression (GPR), k-nearest neighbor (KNN), gene expression programming, random forest, decision tree, boosted tree, adaptive boosting tree, gradient boosting algorithm, stochastic gradient descent, and artificial neural network—for predicting the peak response of RC beams under impact loads. A set of 145 experimental data points from 12 different sources is used to train and evaluate these machine learning models. Key parameters in the data include beam width and depth, span, reinforcement ratios, concrete strength, steel yield strength, deflection, and impact characteristics. Except for KNN, all models showed satisfactory generalization capabilities with R2 values over 0.8. Statistical errors such as RMSE, a-10 index, MAE, and a-20 index are within acceptable limits. The GPR model is the most effective with R2 value of 0.95. Moreover, Shapely analysis identified beam depth, impact velocity, and beam breadth as critical factors. Overall, this study demonstrates the efficacy of machine learning in accurately predicting the behavior of RC structures under impact loads, providing valuable tools for civil engineers in design and analysis.

Three-dimensional peridynamic modeling of damage and penetration in composite plates exposed to localized explosive blasts

Localized failures in composites can lead to catastrophic consequences in some vehicles and systems, such as airplanes and submarines. The paper presents a new three-dimensional (3D) peridynamic model to explore the localized explosive effects on composite plates. The study utilizes the peridynamic method to simulate fractures and deformations in composite plates when exposed to localized explosive blasts. Accurate prediction of composites' performance during explosive blast events is crucial in the design process to avoid the deadly effects of their failures. This study highlights the following novelties: (1) We present, for the first time, a novel 3D mesh-free model to simulate the fracture and damage behavior of composite plates when exposed to explosive blasts; (2) The adopted numerical modeling technique enables highly efficient simulations of fractures and failures in composites when compared with other mesh-based numerical models; (3) We introduce a new mathematical framework to reflect the explosive pressure loads through different composite layers; (4) The study provides an accessible and efficient tool for engineers and researchers to enhance the design of composites in several industries instead relying on limited-access commercial software packages. In addition to the previous novelties, the paper presents a new parametric study that investigates the performance of several composite plates, such as titanium-aramid and aluminum-aramid composites, in explosive blast scenarios. Moreover, the roles of explosive mass and plate thickness in the failure mechanisms of composites are examined.

Editorial: The Heart of Learning: Embracing Change in Education With Empathy and Innovation

The educational landscape is experiencing a period of transformation, shaped by advancements in technology, shifts in student demographics, and the ever-growing emphasis on well-being and inclusivity. As we navigate these changes, it is essential to reflect on the trends driving the evolution of pedagogy and institutional practices. According to Mowreader (2023) faculty and administrators are grappling with how to best implement technological tools while maintaining student engagement and academic integrity. One prominent examp0le is the increased use of artificial intelligence (AI) in both administrative tasks and instructional design. While AI has the potential to streamline processes, it also brings challenges in ensuring ethical use and maintaining human-centered teaching. In an era where AI is rapidly transforming the educational landscape, one thing remains constant: good teaching, at its core is social. While AI offers new tools and possibilities, it does not replace the fundamental elements that define effective education.

The dual role of AI in personalized learning: Enhancements and hindrances for diverse learners

This study examines the dual role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in personalized learning, exploring how AI can both advance and hinder individualized educational experiences for diverse learners. AI technologies—such as adaptive learning platforms, intelligent tutoring systems, and data analytics tools—offer tailored pathways that can increase engagement, accommodate learning differences, and improve academic outcomes. However, challenges also emerge, including algorithmic bias, over-reliance on technology, and potential compromises in data privacy and human interaction. Findings indicate that while AI can enhance personalized learning, it requires careful integration to avoid exacerbating disparities and to support critical thinking and social skills. The role of educators remains essential, with recommendations for professional development to equip teachers with the skills to leverage AI effectively and ethically. This study highlights the importance of a balanced approach in AI integration, combining technological tools with human-centered teaching practices to create inclusive, equitable, and effective learning environments.

The Shift to Online Psychotherapy: Adaptation and Implications for Brazilian Clinical Psychologists Amid Covid-19

The Covid-19 pandemic disrupted traditional psychotherapy practices, prompting a rapid transition to online modalities. This qualitative study investigates how Brazilian clinical psychologists adapted to online psychotherapy during and after the pandemic. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with five psychologists, each with an average professional experience of 8.9 years. Using the Iramuteq software for lexical analysis, six thematic classes were identified: uncertainties during the transition, emerging possibilities, adaptability movements, pandemic context, new professional perspectives, and academic and professional trajectories. The findings highlight significant challenges, including managing technological tools, maintaining therapeutic relationships, and addressing client concerns in virtual settings. However, the transition also revealed notable advantages, such as reduced operational costs, enhanced flexibility, and expanded access to psychological care. The analysis underscores the critical role of digital competencies, including technical, communicational, and cultural skills, in ensuring effective online therapy. Additionally, the results point to gaps in academic training and professional preparation for telepsychology, emphasizing the need for curriculum reform to include digital literacy and teletherapy-specific strategies. The study concludes that online psychotherapy represents not only a response to crisis but also a sustainable model for expanding access to mental health care. It calls for targeted professional development and ethical guidelines to support psychologists in navigating digital environments effectively. These insights contribute to understanding the evolving dynamics of psychotherapy and provide actionable recommendations for improving digital mental health services in Brazil and beyond.

Tyrosinase Oxidative Cross-Linking in the Cell-Like Crowded Microenvironment for Visible Inhibitor Screening.

Owing to many diseases and disorders being caused by dysfunctional or over/underexpressed enzymes, screening for inhibitors of pharmacologically relevant enzymes has emerged as a promising tool for drug discovery, clinical diagnostics, enzyme engineering, and other medical fields. However, despite the recent advances, most inhibitor screenings are still usually conducted in dilute media, at concentrations far from the media in which the enzymes are actually found, which may cause drugs to fail when translated to in vivo. Herein, we build a gel-like intracellular biological environment in vitro using a tyrosinase oxidative cross-linking hydrogel system that is closer to the real catalytic environment of enzymes. We report a straightforward and effective inhibitor evaluation strategy that can quickly compare the inhibitory strengths of inhibitors based on the principle that adding inhibitors causes color changes and mechanical changes in the system. Enabled by molecular docking, we further demonstrate the different performances of the inhibitors at different concentrations. By construction of the cell-like crowded environment in vitro, this system shows an appealing application prospect for new drug development.

CRISPR/Cas9 Technology Providing the Therapeutic Landscape of Metastatic Prostate Cancer

Prostate cancer (PCa) is the most prevalent malignancy and the second leading cause of cancer-related death in men. Although current therapies can effectively manage the primary tumor, most patients with late-stage disease manifest with metastasis in different organs. From surgery to treatment intensification (TI), several combinations of therapies are administered to improve the prognosis of patients with metastatic PCa. Due to the high frequency of the mutation during the metastatic phase, the clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)/CRISPR-associated nuclease 9 (Cas9) genetic engineering tool can accelerate the effects of TI by enhancing targeted gene therapy or immunotherapy. This review describes the genetic background of metastatic PCa and how CRISPR/Cas9 technology can contribute to the field of PCa treatment development. It also discusses the current limitations of conventional PCa therapy and the potential of CRISPR-based PCa therapy.

Determining the Reliability of Software Electronic Engineering Tools in the Control of Vestibular Disorders in Inclusive Physical Education of Students

Background. Due to the increase in the proportion of mine-blast injuries sustained during the Russian-Ukrainian war, the number of students in higher education institutions after blast TBI has risen. Objectives. The study aimed to determine the reliability of the tool for test control of gait parameters, created based on software electronic engineering for students after blast TBI in inclusive physical education. Materials and methods. The theoretical stage of the research was realized by analyzing the literature on the studied problem, evaluating and synthesizing information from scientific sources. For the empirical part of the experiment, the Dynamic Gait Index test was used to assess gait parameters, dynamic balance, and fall risk. The test results were processed using the methods of statistical mathematical analysis. The experiment involved 30 students (men) after sustaining an explosive traumatic brain injury. Results. The study presents the developed tool for testing gait parameters using the Dynamic Gait Index, which is based on the integration of various types of software electronic engineering services. The development uses motion, speed, pressure, and touch sensors. The information about the test exercise, recorded by the sensors, is sequentially transmitted by wireless communication means to the controller (Arduino Leonardo based on the ATmega32u4 microcontroller platform) and then to a PC, where the results are displayed on the monitor in digital and graphical form. The development uses a neural network and the Microsoft OneDrive cloud service to process information, which provides processing and storage of large amounts of test control data. The results of the empirical establishment of the Dynamic Gait Index quality measure, the characteristics of reliability and validity that were recorded by the teacher, are significantly inferior in numerical values to the correlation coefficient obtained by the results of the Dynamic Gait Index when the outcomes were recorded using the developed tool. Conclusions. The introduction of modern software engineering services into inclusive physical education of students represents a significant step forward in implementing an impartial control mechanisms for restoring damaged gait and balance functions, which have been recognized as a leading factor in disability caused by blast TBI, and contributes to ensuring the effectiveness of this process.

A UTILIZAÇÃO DA TECNOLOGIA DA INFORMAÇÃO COMO FERRAMENTA DE APOIO NA GESTÃO CONTÁBIL

This work aims to examine how information technology (IT) can be used as a strategic tool to support and improve accounting management. With technological advancement and the growing need for efficiency in business activities, IT has become fundamental in automating repetitive tasks, optimizing data accuracy and integrating accounting systems. The study investigates the application of technological tools, such as management systems, advanced data analysis and cloud storage, to ensure efficiency in decision-making, information security and regulatory compliance. Through a literature review, this work highlights the benefits of technology in reducing failures and expenses, as well as facilitating the production of real-time reports and ensuring compliance. The data indicates that IT not only transforms the way accounting is carried out, but also increases the competitiveness of organizations by enabling faster, more reliable and efficient accounting management. In summary, this study provides a structured view of the role of information technology in modernizing accounting and improving financial management processes.

Technological Resources for Physical Rehabilitation in Cancer Patients Undergoing Chemotherapy: A Scoping Review

Background/Objectives: Cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy often face challenges that reduce their physical function and quality of life. Technological resources offer innovative solutions for physical rehabilitation, but the extent of their application in this context remains unclear. This scoping review aims to explore and map the various technological tools used to support physical rehabilitation in cancer patients during chemotherapy, focusing on their potential to improve outcomes and enhance patient care. Methods: A scoping review was conducted following the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) guidelines and the PRISMA-ScR framework. Comprehensive searches were performed in the MEDLINE, CINAHL, Scopus, SPORTDiscus, and COCHRANE databases. The included studies focused on the technological resources used in physical rehabilitation for cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy. Data extraction followed the World Health Organization’s “Classification of Digital Health Interventions v1.0” to categorize the technologies. Results: A total of 32 studies met the inclusion criteria. The most commonly used technologies included wearable devices (16 studies), web-based platforms and telerehabilitation systems (7 studies), mHealth applications (6 studies), virtual reality (2 studies), and exergaming (3 studies). These tools were designed to enhance physical function, manage treatment-related symptoms, and improve overall quality of life. Wearable devices were particularly effective for monitoring physical activity, while web-based platforms and mHealth applications supported remote rehabilitation and patient engagement. Conclusions: Technological resources offer significant opportunities for personalized rehabilitation interventions in cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy. However, further research is needed to evaluate the long-term effectiveness, cost-efficiency, and clinical integration of these tools to ensure broader accessibility and sustainable impact.

Transgender health issues addressed in research on telehealth use: a scoping review

Telehealth is a valuable tool for reminding transgender-persons to undergo HIV testing, hormone injections, and voice training. Despite increased awareness of the unique health needs of transgender-individuals in recent years, effectively addressing their concerns remains challenging. The COVID-19 pandemic has negatively affected socioeconomic status, mental health, and access to gender-affirming treatment. To better understand how individuals and their specific health issues are addressed in telehealth solutions, we conducted a scoping review using PubMed and Scopus, spanning from 2000 to 2021. We screened eligible articles following the PRISMA checklist, extracted the data, and performed a thematic analysis of 100 reports. For control purposes, we double-checked the ratings during the screening and coding. Our results show that telehealth is primarily used for healthcare access, sexual and reproductive health, and mental health. Since 2020, the overall number of publications has greatly increased, with only nine reports explicitly referring to COVID-19-related challenges. The latter relate exclusively to clinical purposes such as healthcare access. We found that transgender-women were researched more often than transgender-men, particularly in the field of sexual and reproductive health research. Some studies included groups other than transgender-persons, such as parents or clinicians, who might be relevant for advancing telehealth use. The review’s findings highlight the need for more research that considers the diversity of transgender-groups and the adapted use of diverse technological tools beyond pandemics and public health crises.

Navigating Safer Seas: The Integration of Technology in Mitigating Occupational Hazards and Enhancing Safety for Fishermen

Objective: This study aims to comprehensively analyze the role of technology in revolutionizing safety measures for fishermen and mitigating occupational hazards among the fishermen in Ernakulam district, Kerala. Methods: Primary data was collected from 420 fishermen in Kerala using a simple random sampling technique. The study explores the use of advanced technological tools, such as smart gear with sensors, real-time weather forecasting, predictive analytics, and training through Virtual and Augmented Reality, to create safer working conditions. Result: Technological advancements, including smart equipment and VR/AR training, enable informed decision-making and preparedness, allowing fishermen to avoid potential hazards and improve safety on the job. Conclusion: The integration of technology has a positive impact on the safety and sustainability of the fishing profession, fostering a safer maritime environment with reduced occupational risks.

The ABC transporter SmABCG1 mediates tanshinones export from the peridermic cells of Salvia miltiorrhiza root.

Plants have mechanisms to transport secondary metabolites from where they are biosynthesized to the sites where they function, or to sites such as the vacuole for detoxification. However, current research has mainly focused on metabolite biosynthesis and regulation, and little is known about their transport. Tanshinone, a class diterpenoid with medicinal properties, is biosynthesized in the periderm of Salvia miltiorrhiza roots. Here, we discovered that tanshinone can be transported out of peridermal cells and secreted into the soil environment and that the ABC transporter SmABCG1 is involved in the efflux of tanshinone ⅡA and tanshinone Ⅰ. The SmABCG1 gene is adjacent to the diterpene biosynthesis gene cluster in the S. miltiorrhiza genome. The temporal-spatial expression pattern of SmABCG1 is consistent with tanshinone accumulation profiles. SmABCG1 is located on the plasma membrane and preferentially accumulates in the peridermal cells of S. miltiorrhiza roots. Heterologous expression in Xenopus laevis oocytes demonstrated that SmABCG1 can export tanshinone ⅡA and tanshinone Ⅰ. CRISPR/Cas9-mediated mutagenesis of SmABCG1 in S. miltiorrhiza hairy roots resulted in a significant decrease in tanshinone contents in both hairy roots and the culture medium, whereas overexpression of this gene resulted in increased tanshinone contents. CYP76AH3 transcript levels increased in hairy roots overexpressing SmABCG1 and decreased in knockout lines, suggesting that SmABCG1 may affect the expression of CYP76AH3, indirectly regulating tanshinone biosynthesis. Finally, tanshinone ⅡA showed cytotoxicity to Arabidopsis roots. These findings offer new perspectives on plant diterpenoid transport and provide a new genetic tool for metabolic engineering and synthetic biology research.

The ICT usage in the Middle East: contribution to the development of the society

ABSTRACT This paper aims to understand and analyze the illusion of control of ICT in the Middle Eastern context and to link the variables drawn from the illusion of control concept that are trust, skills, familiarity trust, skills, familiarity and benefits to the success and to the improvement of the user’s life. These variables were chosen because they fit most to the ICT use. We used a sample composed of members of generations X and Y holding a university degree. After analyzing the data collected at the sample level, we identified the two most influential variables on the illusion of control in this context, which are trust and having skills. This research contributes to the UN sustainable development goals (SDG). Public policies should promote the best practices and implement training programs that allow ICT users to manage the technological tools and overcome the potential risks.

Applying clustered artificial neural networks to enhance contaminant diffusion prediction in geotechnical engineering

This paper introduces a novel approach using Clustered Artificial Neural Networks (CLANN) to address the challenge of developing predictive models for multimodal dataset with extreme parameter values. The CLANN method strategically decomposes the dataset, derived from Finite Element Analysis (FEA), into clusters, each representing distinct diffusion behaviors, and applies specialized neural networks within these clusters. The CLANN model was rigorously evaluated and demonstrated superior accuracy and consistency compared to traditional methods such as the Adaptive Neuro-Fuzzy Inference System (ANFIS) and fuzzy expert systems. While these conventional models struggled to capture the full range of diffusion dynamics, particularly under extreme conditions, CLANN consistently provided predictions that closely aligned with the actual FEA data across all scenarios. The versatility of the CLANN approach extends beyond its application to soil contamination. Its ability to handle complex, multimodal datasets suggests that this methodology can be generalized to a wide range of scientific and engineering problems characterized by similar data structures. This makes CLANN not only a powerful tool for geotechnical engineers but also a promising framework for broader applications where traditional models fall short. The findings of this study pave the way for more accurate, reliable, and adaptable predictive modeling in diverse domains, enhancing our ability to manage and mitigate environmental and engineering challenges.

Optimal operation of the smart electrical network considering energy management of demand side

The smart electrical grid represents a significant advancement in generating, distributing, and consuming electricity. This sophisticated system integrates modern technology and communication tools to enhance energy management efficiency and improve demand costuming within the power network. In this paper, optimal operation of the electrical network with energy management and demand response program (DRP) is implemented. The implementation of the optimal operation is done via multi-stage and multi-objective functions modeling. The DRP modeling is done in first stage to optimal management of consumption in demand side. In second stage, operating cost, emission, power losses and voltage profile are optimized as multi-objective functions modeling with attention to optimal management of consumption in demand side. The solving optimal operation of the electrical network is carried out by using elephant herding optimization (EHO). This problem is implemented on 33-bus test system with hybrid energy resources. Finally, DRP leads to reducing costs, emissions and losses and improving voltage profile in proposed electrical network. Hence, operation costs, emission, power losses, and voltage deviation with the participation of DRP are minimized by 39.15%, 9.94%, 33.35%, and 30.73%, respectively. On the other side, voltage stability is enhanced by 3.66% without considering DRP.

Shear capacity analysis of fiber reinforced polymer concrete beams

In recent years, fiber reinforced polymer (FRP) reinforcement has garnered significant interest in the construction industry, particularly in concrete beam construction. Determining the shear capacity of FRP-reinforced beams is, however, an intricate task. The shear capacity of FRP-reinforced concrete beams can be estimated using design equations from various international standards of practice. However, these equations are often adaptations of those used for conventional steel reinforcement, resulting in unreliable estimates. This research compares design equation predictions with experimental data, utilizing test results from 48 carbon FRP-reinforced and 73 glass FRP-reinforced concrete beams. The results reveal significant differences in the accuracy and reliability of shear capacity predictions using American (ACI), Canadian (CSA), and Japanese (JSCE) design standards for both types of concrete beams. The ACI standard has high underestimation and inconsistent predictions for carbon and glass FRP beams, making it unsuitable for shear design. The CSA standard provides consistent predictions with moderate underestimation for both types of FRP beams, but it shows overestimation in certain cases. The JSCE standard consistently shows moderate underestimation without any instances of overestimation, making it a reliable tool for engineers and practitioners to estimate the shear capacity of both types of FRP-reinforced beams.

The Use of Tablets in Teaching: Examining Competencies, Challenges and Opportunities among Public Primary School Teachers in Tanzania

Technology is increasingly becoming inevitable in the transformation of socio-economic practices including education. The integration of technological tools e.g. tablets, computers and mobile phones in teaching and learning has gained significant attention in recent years. This research investigates competencies, challenges and opportunities associated with the use of tablets in teaching in primary schools in Tanzania. In this study, a questionnaire survey was deployed to collect data from 130 teachers in 10 schools which were randomly selected. It was found that primary school teachers have a moderate level of competence in using tablets for teaching (M = 3.78, SD = .46177). Secondly, the findings revealed a moderate level of challenges when it comes to incorporating tablets into their teaching methods. However, the study depicted opportunities created by the integration of tablets in teaching among teachers. These opportunities include innovative teaching strategies and fostering professional growth to facilitate collaboration and communication, as well as broadening the subjects/content to teach. The study recommends training among teachers in order to enable the utilization of tablet technology. The study concludes that it is crucial to address the identified challenges and capitalize on the opportunities in order to harness the power of technology in education

DESAFIOS DE SEGURANÇA NAS INSTITUIÇÕES FINANCEIRAS DIGITAIS: ATAQUES MALWARE E MECANISMOS DE SEGURANÇA

Financial institutions face increasing challenges related to information security due to the intensification of cyber attacks, particularly threats such as malware and ransomware. This study aims to critically analyze these risks and evaluate the effectiveness of current technological tools and current regulations in preserving the supervision and confidentiality of digital financial systems. To this end, we adopted an exploratory and qualitative approach, based on a comprehensive literature review. Research has revealed that the adoption of artificial intelligence, especially through neural networks and machine learning algorithms, has proven effective in identifying attacks and containing malicious behavior in real time. Intrusion detection and prevention systems (IDS/IPS), combined with multifactor authentication protocols and biometric technologies, have brought benefits to the identity verification and fraud protection process. It is concluded that effectively combating malware attacks requires the adoption of advanced security mechanisms, such as machine learning, multifactor authentication and blockchain, integrated with artificial intelligence. This combination enables rapid detection and response to suspicious behavior, strengthening data protection in digital financial institutions.