Engineering Tools Research Articles

Design optimization and simulation of a 3D printed cable-driven continuum robot using IKM-ANN and nTop software

The first aspect of the paper focuses on presenting the innovative design of a new continuum robot, which was initially conceptualized using SolidWorks and then brought to life through 3D printing. This section illustrates the construction process, detailing the wiring method and the separator between each section of the robot. A key feature of the newly proposed design is the ball-like shape on the upper side of each disk, allowing each disk to rotate freely and gracefully in conjunction with the next one. To further enhance the design, the disk was optimized using nTopology software, an AI-based solution that reduces weight while maintaining performance. This modern engineering tool proved to be instrumental in addressing engineering challenges effectively. Subsequently, both the original and optimized disks were fabricated using 3D printing technology. In addition to the physical construction, the study employed an Artificial Neural Network (ANN) coupled with Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) to simulate the developed model by solving its inverse kinematic model. The findings from this research have paved the way for a new continuum robot design that can be trained using the ANN-PSO method. Furthermore, the powerful nTopology tool was demonstrated to be capable of skillfully optimizing any given components without sacrificing performance.

User Experience of a Large-Scale Smartphone-Based Observational Study in Multiple Sclerosis: Global, Open-Access, Digital-Only Study.

The Floodlight Open app is a digital health technology tool (DHTT) that comprises remote, smartphone sensor-based tests (daily activities) for assessing symptoms of multiple sclerosis (MS). User acquisition, engagement, and retention remain a barrier to successfully deploying such tools. This study aims to quantitatively and qualitatively investigate key user experience (UX) factors associated with the Floodlight Open app. Floodlight Open is a global, open-access, digital-only study designed to understand the drivers and barriers in deploying a DHTT in a naturalistic setting without supervision and onboarding by a clinician. Daily activities included tests assessing cognition (Information Processing Speed and Information Processing Speed Digit-Digit), hand-motor function (Pinching Test and Draw a Shape Test), and postural stability and gait (Static Balance Test, U-Turn Test, and Two-Minute Walk Test [2MWT]). All daily activities except the 2MWT were taken in a fixed sequence. Qualitative UX was studied through semistructured interviews in a substudy of US participants with MS. The quantitative UX analysis investigated the impact of new UX design features on user engagement and retention in US participants for 3 separate test series: all daily activities included in the fixed sequence (DA), all daily activities included in the fixed sequence except the Static Balance Test and U-Turn Test (DAx), and the 2MWT. The qualitative UX substudy (N=22) revealed the need for 2 new UX design features: a more seamless user journey during the activation process that eliminates the requirement of switching back and forth between the app and the email that the participants received upon registration, and configurable reminders and push notifications to help plan and remind the participants to complete their daily activities. Both UX design features were assessed in the quantitative UX analysis. Introducing the more seamless user journey (original user journey: n=608; more seamless user journey: n=481) improved the conversion rate of participants who enrolled in the study and proceeded to successfully activate the app from 53.9% (328/608) to 74.6% (359/481). Introducing reminders and push notifications (with reminders and notifications: n=350; without reminders and notifications: n=172) improved continuous usage time (proportion of participants with ≥3 consecutive days of usage: DA and DAx: ~30% vs ~12%; 2MWT: ~30% vs ~20%); test completion rates (maximum number of test series completed: DA: 279 vs 64; DAx: 283 vs 126; 2MWT: 302 vs 76); and user retention rates (at day 30: DA: 53/172, 30.8% vs 34/350, 9.7%; DAx: 53/172, 30.8% vs 60/350, 17.1%; 2MWT: 39/172, 22.6% vs 22/350, 6.2%). Inactivity times remained comparable. The remote assessment of MS with DHTTs is a relatively nascent but growing field of research. The continued assessment and improvement of UX design features can play a crucial role in the successful long-term adoption of new DHTTs.

Knowledge-based education and the management of artificial intelligence tools: Experiences and good practices

The purpose of the research is to share experiences of good practices in the implementation of Knowledge-Based Education (CBE) and the management of Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools in the classroom. The methodology corresponds to a documentary research with a qualitative approach. A systematic review of the literature and analysis of successful cases in higher education programs were carried out. Key factors for the success of CBE and AI in the classroom were identified. The result obtained was the elaboration of a set of recommendations for the implementation of CBE and AI in the classroom that can serve as a guide to integrate AI tools into their teaching practice. It was concluded that CBE and AI are powerful tools that contribute to improving student learning, as long as ethical considerations and relevant validation strategies are taken into account, however, their implementation in the classroom is subject to proper planning by the counselor and the responsible use of technological tools. The implementation of AI tools is a means to improve the quality of education and not an end.

Aircraft Skin Machine Learning-Based Defect Detection and Size Estimation in Visual Inspections

Aircraft maintenance is a complex process that requires a highly trained, qualified, and experienced team. The most frequent task in this process is the visual inspection of the airframe structure and engine for surface and sub-surface cracks, impact damage, corrosion, and other irregularities. Automated defect detection is a valuable tool for maintenance engineers to ensure safety and condition monitoring. The proposed approach is to process the captured feedback using various deep learning architectures to achieve the highest performance defect detections. Additionally, an algorithm is proposed to estimate the size of the detected defect. The team collaborated with TUI’s Airline Maintenance Team at Luton Airport, allowing us to fly a drone inside the hangar and use handheld cameras to collect representative data from their aircraft fleet. After a comprehensive dataset was constructed, multiple deep-learning architectures were developed and evaluated. The models were optimized for detecting various aircraft skin defects, with a focus on the challenging task of dent detection. The size estimation approach was evaluated in both controlled laboratory conditions and real-world hangar environments, providing insights into practical implementation challenges.

Educaplay as a tool to potentiate English vocabulary retention and learning

Introduction: A lack of vocabulary poses a major barrier to mastering English, often leading to communication challenges. Technology can support and facilitate the teaching-learning process, notably in the acquisition of a foreign language. Thus, this research explores the impact of Educaplay, on vocabulary acquisition among EFL high school students in southern Ecuador. Methodology: This study applied a quasi-experimental design, with a sample of 60 high school students, selected through a purposeful method. To collect data a pre-test, post-test, an observation checklist, and graded vocabulary activities were employed. The significance was measured with t-student and ANOVA. Results: Educaplay evidenced to be an effective technological tool to support students' retention and improvement of vocabulary as shown by the p-value of 4.86e-15 and the F-value (49.000) and p-values (0.000). Discussion: Implementing interactive and engaging activities through Educaplay and aligned with the teacher's guidance allowed participants to increase their vocabulary, thus they understood when and how to use different terms and the correct spelling of these words. Conclusion: Participants improved their vocabulary proficiency and increased their motivation to study this language. Additionally, the findings unveil that incorporating Educaplay in the classroom promoted a productive and interactive learning environment.

Squeezing below the ground state of motion of a continuously monitored levitating nanoparticle

Abstract Squeezing is a crucial resource for quantum information processing and quantum sensing. In levitated nanomechanics, squeezed states of motion can be generated via temporal control of the trapping frequency of a massive particle. However, the amount of achievable squeezing typically suffers from detrimental environmental effects. We propose a scheme for the generation of significant levels of mechanical squeezing in the motional state of a levitated nanoparticle by leveraging on the careful temporal control of the trapping potential. We analyse the performance of such a scheme by fully accounting for the most relevant sources of noise, including measurement backaction. The feasibility of our proposal, which is close to experimental state-of-the-art, makes it a valuable tool for quantum state engineering.

NARCISSISM AND ENVY'S EFFECT ON TOURISTS SHARING SELFIE IN SOCIAL COMPARISON THEORY APPROACH

Tourism, as a social endeavor, has been significantly influenced by advancements in technology and communication tools, thereby facilitating interpersonal interactions as a social activity. The widespread integration of smart technologies and the continually evolving social media platforms have fundamentally altered the rapid dissemination of tourist experiences. Consequently, this research aims to examine the tendency to share selfies on social media platforms within the framework of social comparison theory. Data were collected from 533 participants through an online survey and were subjected to Exploratory Factor Analysis, Confirmatory Factor Analysis, and Path Analysis within the framework of Structural Equation Modeling. The analyses revealed that narcissism and envy positively impact tourists' tendencies to share selfies on social media platforms. Based on these findings, the study offers recommendations for developing effective strategies for tourism stakeholders.

Esp in Action: Application of LEM in Gaziantep Industry Through Online Language Teaching

The study was conducted in Gaziantep, an industrial city in the Southeastern Anatolia region of Turkiye. This study was a joint effort of Gaziantep University and a company that participated in many international activities. Through fieldwork and literature reviews, it was determined that there are no foreign language studies towards business people and business English in Gaziantep. The objectives of this study, was aimed at business people and the business world, were determined based on this preliminary research and existing foreign language teaching studies; the goal was to determine how to close the language gap in the business world. Distance education was used to make the study easy to access; for participants to be able to access the training program at any time and place. After necessary procedures were established, the employees who could participate in the project were determined. The employees' primary needs and foreign language levels were determined with a pre-test and a need analysis. A training model was developed accordingly, and the eight-week training was started. The training content was organized according to the lean educational method, considering the needs of all participants, and the efficiency of the method in question was examined. Training content, incorporating technological tools and interactive materials, was planned to ensure that participants enjoyed learning throughout the course. The success of the training was evaluated based on findings obtained by comparing pre-test and post-test results. In light of these findings, it has been proven that language success can be increased quickly by using the lean educational method effectively. It has been determined that great success can be achieved quickly with the lean educational method, a training model used to achieve rapid success in areas for adult groups and the business world. In addition, this study determined that people with time constraints could easily participate in the program with distance education and save time while doing so.

Person's Temperament and Character Type Detection Based on Modern Information and Communication Technologies

The popularity of e-learning systems is growing because of their effectiveness. It is necessary to adjust learning/training scenarios for every trainee, using advanced information and communication technologies (ICT) tools to achieve this. However, it is not often respected that people have different perceptions of information. A learning system should consider the temperament and character of an applicant/trainee. Since people with the same temperament have approximately the same ability to perceive and process information, as well as similar labour skills, the learning system must first determine the applicant's temperament and after that, based on this, determine how long it will take him to absorb a certain amount of information from the training course. Testing is used for recognition of the applicant’s temperament. But traditional tests–questionnaires are long and the applicant can manipulate with answers. Apart from those, there are other types of tests: color tests, picture tests, figures tests, drawing tests, etc. The advantage of such tests is that they are based on the subconscious processes and thus, are more free from manipulations with answers, take far less time, and less depend on the mood swings. Moreover, according to S. Dellinger, the applicant's temperament type represents a fuzzy set, because a person has one dominant temperament and one secondary temperament, with relevantly different credibility levels. This means, that the determination of a person’s temperament should be implemented in a fuzzy environment, not in a classical environment. For this reason, we want to implement the first part of the teaching system, using this paper. Particularly, we aimed to create a quick and free-from-manipulations test-program, which would allow, determine the type of applicant’s temperament for e-learning individualization needs and determin the innate working skills. The specific fuzzy method is applied. The program was successfully tested on different people.

Structural basis for sequence context-independent single-stranded DNA cytosine deamination by the bacterial toxin SsdA.

DNA deaminase toxins are involved in interbacterial antagonism and the generation of genetic diversity in surviving bacterial populations. These enzymes have also been adopted as genome engineering tools. The single-stranded (ss)DNA deaminase SsdA represents the bacterial deaminase toxin family-2 (BaDTF2) and it deaminates ssDNA cytosines with little sequence context dependence, which contrasts with the AID/APOBEC family of sequence-selective ssDNA cytosine deaminases. Here we report the crystal structure of SsdA in complex with a ssDNA substrate. The structure reveals a unique mode of substrate binding, in which a cluster of aromatic residues of SsdA engages ssDNA in a V-shaped conformation sharply bent across the target cytosine. The bases 5' or 3' to the target cytosine are stacked linearly and make few sequence-specific protein contacts, thus explaining the broad substrate selectivity of SsdA. Unexpectedly, SsdA contains a β-amino acid isoaspartate, which is important for enzymatic activity and may contribute to the stability of SsdA as a toxin. Structure- function studies helped to design SsdA mutants active in human cells, which could lead to future applications in genome engineering.

The use of technology for learning english as a foreign language

The use of technology and technological tools have allowed endless advantages within society in different areas such as health, politics, environment, education, among others. Technology evolves as time goes by and in the educational field it is no exception, significant help has been observed in this area, specifically in the learning of new languages, in this case, the English language since there is a diversity of technological tools that facilitate and encourage students to maintain interest within the aforementioned area and thus be able to increase their knowledge in a more interactive way. The main objective of this research was to identify students' perceptions of the use of technology for learning English as a foreign language (EFL). The institutions that were part of this research were the Technical University of Cotopaxi (UTC) and the Pontificia Universidad Católica del Ecuador (PUCE), the first being a public university and the other a private institution. In this research, the differences and possible similarities that these two institutions have with respect to the use and application of technology were highlighted. For this research, a survey with a Likert scale was applied to 60 students from each university to learn more about the differences that each one has and thus they were analyzed thoroughly in order to obtain optimal results on the effectiveness of the use of technology in learning English as a foreign language (EFL) in each of the institutions mentioned above. In conclusion, it is highlighted that technology is a very important study tool today due to the advances it has made, allowing and opening the way to a wide range of resources that students of a foreign language can access. It is also mentioned that education in both universities is not so different, so a student from a public institution can obtain the same study results as a student from a private institution as long as they have access to the necessary resources for learning. In conclusion, it must be taken into account that the preparation of both the teacher and the student for the correct use of technology in the classroom is extremely important, so each of them must be trained and prepared for the proper use of technology and technological tools provided in each higher institution.

EXPLORING STUDENT ENGAGEMENT WITH FORMATIVE ASSESSMENT AND ICT TOOLS

This study investigates the potential of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) tools to enhance formative assessment (FA) practices in English as a Foreign Language (EFL) classrooms. While previous research has focused primarily on teacher feedback in writing courses, this study emphasizes a broader scope of FA. Utilizing a cross-sectional, quantitative analysis, the research examines how ICT tools support FA's goal of facilitating the learning process from students' perspectives, thereby informing effective teaching practices and improving learning outcomes. Participants included 173 university EFL students in Japan, divided into English majors and non-English majors. The study employed a revision of an existing survey for language learning with digital tools and a self-developed survey based on an existing framework for FA. Correlational analysis indicated that participants generally perceived ICT tools as supportive of all five FA principles. Despite issues like connectivity problems, students found the tools valuable for making the learning progress visible and enhancing peer communication. The study underscores the importance of understanding and practicing FA beyond feedback, such as clarifying learning goals and fostering peer learning, to enhance learning. These findings suggest that integrating ICT tools into FA practices can significantly benefit EFL instruction by promoting student engagement and self-regulated learning.

A Process-Based Standardization of an Intraoperative Escalation Protocol in Anesthesiology.

Prompt recognition and management of critical events is pivotal for the provision of safe anesthetic care. This requires a well-functioning team that focuses on effective communication, timely decision-making, and escalation of potential complications. We believe that variation in bedside care leads to "near-misses," adverse outcomes, and serious safety events (SSEs). The principles of an escalation culture have been used successfully in other highly reliable industries such as aviation, military, and manufacturing. We discuss here the introduction of a unique and compelling thought-process for developing an intraoperative escalation protocol that is specifically tailored for our institution. Inspired by a critical intraoperative event, this departmental protocol was developed based on an analysis of multispecialty literature and expert opinion to decrease the incidence of SSEs. It includes a stepwise approach and incorporates patient-specific information to guide team members who encounter dynamic clinical situations. The implementation of the protocol has facilitated continuous quality improvement through iterative education, improving communication, and enhancing decision-making. Concurrently, we have plans to incorporate technology and electronic decision support tools to enhance real-time communication, monitor performance, and foster a culture of safety.

New learning method with ERP business simulation game: What can we learn?

This Study explores the effectiveness of Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) business simulation games on user competencies. This Study Uses a qualitative descriptive methodology, and the informants of this research have been winning in national and international business simulation games (both students and alums). Traditional pedagogical approaches need to be revised to explain the rich dynamics arising from business environments. As a result, they also consider incorporating new educational aids into their curriculums, i.e., business simulation games. Participants indicated that interacting with these simulations enhanced their understanding of business topics and resulted in soft skills growth. Current working alumni said they felt more capable of acclimating to the professional world. However, the Study unearthed that comparatively few higher education institutions incorporate business simulation games in their teaching practices. The result shows that with the development of technology, there is a transformation in how business functions; integration of these tools into educational frameworks becomes essential to narrow the knowledge theory gap and knowledge application. These results suggest the importance of universities introducing technology tools, particularly ERP business simulations, into their curricula for Business and Economics courses (single or joint honors) alongside accounting.

The Integration of Technology-assisted Assessment in esl (English as a second Language) Instruction

This study explores the incorporation of technology-assisted evaluation in English as a Second Language (ESL) teaching and its influence on educational achievements. The study investigates the effectiveness of using several technology tools, such as online platforms, adaptive software, and multimedia resources, to evaluate the language ability of ESL learners. Through the utilization of these tools, instructors strive to deliver interactive, captivating, and customized assessments that provide significant insights into learners' advancement and areas requiring enhancement. The study highlights the significance of accuracy in the design and execution of assessments to guarantee their validity and reliability. The text examines the role of technology in enhancing the gathering and examination of assessment data, empowering educators to make well-informed choices to improve instructional methods and to cater to the unique needs of each student. Moreover, the study explores the capacity of technology-supported evaluation to tackle issues encountered in conventional assessment approaches, such as the ability to handle large-scale assessments and ensure impartiality. Additionally, it emphasizes the importance of addressing implementation factors, such as guaranteeing availability of devices and dependable internet connectivity. In summary, this article argues in favour of incorporating technology-assisted assessment into ESL training to improve learning outcomes and promote better language proficiency among learners.

Parameter Optimization and Capacitance-Based Monitoring of In Situ Cell Detachment in Microcarrier Cultures

This study delves into the scale-down optimization of the in situ cell detachment process for MA 104 cells cultivated on Cytodex 1 microcarriers (MCs). Through a systematic exploration, critical operational parameters—the agitation speed, incubation time, Trypsin–EDTA volume and corresponding activity, and washing steps—were identified as key factors influencing the efficiency and scalability of in situ cell detachment in microcarrier-based cell culture. Maintaining an appropriate agitation speed (1.25 × Njs, minimum agitation speed at which no microcarriers remain stationary for the signification period of 5 s), optimizing the Trypsinization incubation time (up to 60 min), and implementing multiple washing steps (two times) post-medium removal were found to be crucial for efficient cell detachment and subsequent growth. Our study demonstrates the feasibility of reducing the final Trypsin volume to 50 mL per gram of microcarrier while maintaining a Trypsin activity above 380 USP/mL. These conditions ensure complete cell dissociation and improve the cost effectiveness in large-scale productions. Additionally, we introduced real-time monitoring using a capacitance sensor during in situ cell detachment. This method has proven to be an effective process analytical technology (PAT) tool for tracking the cell detachment progress and efficiency. It allows for the prediction of cell detachment based on signals recorded between 3 and 7 min of Trypsinization, enabling rapid process decisions without the need for offline sampling, thereby enhancing the overall process control. This systematic approach not only optimizes in situ cell detachment processes but also has significant implications for the scalability and efficiency of microcarrier-based cell culture systems.

Enhancing Organizational Performance through HR 4.0 and Advanced Communication Tools

In order to better understand the mediating and moderating impacts of talent matching, this study examines the relationship between quality hiring and the implementation of HR 4.0 technology. The theories suggest that the implementation of HR 4.0 technology has a substantial direct impact on quality hires as well as an indirect impact through talent matching acting as a moderating and mediating element. This study investigates the substantial influence that HR 4.0 technologies have on firms' ability to hire top talent. Through a careful analysis of the literature and empirical data, this study clarifies the complicated implications of cutting-edge technological tools like automation, machine learning, artificial intelligence (AI), and data analytics on the recruiting and selection process. These results demonstrate how crucial it is to apply successful talent matching techniques in addition to HR 4.0 technologies to improve the quality of hires made by firms. Future research directions are suggested, along with implications for theory and practice.

Exploring the Impact of HR 4.0 on Organizational Performance

This study investigates the relationship between the adoption of HR 4.0 technologies and quality hires, focusing on the mediating and moderating effects of skill matching. The hypotheses propose that the adoption of HR 4.0 technologies significantly influences quality hires directly. as well as indirectly through skill matching as a mediating factor and moderating factor. This study explores the significant impact that HR 4.0 technologies have on hiring excellent employees for businesses. This study explains the complex effects of cutting-edge technology tools like automation, machine learning, artificial intelligence (AI), and data analytics on the hiring and selection process through a thorough examination of the literature and empirical evidence. These findings highlight the importance of both the adoption of HR 4.0 technologies and the implementation of effective skill matching strategies in enhancing the quality of hires within organizations. Implications for theory and practice are discussed, along with suggestions for future research.

La cultura informática en la enseñanza-aprendizaje del inglés

This review article aims to analyze the impact of computer culture on the teaching and learning process of the English language. The methodology used included the systematic review of previous studies that explored the integration of computer technology in the English classroom, as well as the analysis of pedagogical approaches and technological tools used. The results revealed that incorporating computer culture in English teaching can improve variables like motivation, active participation, and the development of communication skills. Furthermore, it was observed that digital technologies offer opportunities for the individualization of learning and the creation of more interactive and dynamic educational environments. In conclusion, the importance of continuing to investigate and promote the strategic use of computer culture in the teaching of English is highlighted, with the aim of enhancing the quality and effectiveness of education in an increasingly digitalized world.

Recent PC System and its Functions Mastery

The current living area is refers to as a digital generation simply because of the use of the new technology tools. It is important to master the materials you use. In computing, most people want nowadays to use computers without mastering the basic which goes with it. Indeed, using a computer seems to be easy but since users know some bad sides of a computer, its architecture and functionalities must be understood as well. Although it is said that all computers have several characteristics in common, the differentiation includes one of debated concepts focused in this work. Moreover, as all systems, PCs have a system called ‘‘PC System’’ that people need to know before pretending to use perfectly the computer. It is advised to all computer users that the PC System must be understood entirely for it better usage without which computer usage becomes complex. The present article guide computer users to disclose recent PC System and its functions. This work concerns with, first, the way the PC System is organized, second, different parts of the computer, the way they are connected from one to another and functions are discussed for the better understanding by computer users.