bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Non-Dominant Hemisphere Excitability Is Unaffected during and after Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation of the Dominant Hemisphere
Authors: Wilkins Erik W. , Young Richard J. , Houston Daniel , Kawana Eric , Lopez Mora Edgar , Sunkara Meghana S. , Riley Zachary A. , Poston Brach
Published: July 2024

Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) increases primary motor cortex (M1) excitability and improves motor performance when applied unilaterally to the dominant hemisphere. However, the influence of tDCS on contralateral M1 excitability both during and after application has not been quantified. The purpose was to determine the influence of tDCS applied to the dominant M1 on the excitability of the contralateral non-dominant M1. This study employed a double-blind, randomized, SHAM-controlled, within-subject crossover experimental design. Eighteen young adults performed two experimental sessions (tDCS, SHAM) in counterbalanced order separated by a one-week washout. Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) was used to quantify the excitability of the contralateral M1 to which anodal tDCS was applied for 20 min with a current strength of 1 mA. Motor evoked potential (MEP) amplitudes were assessed in 5 TMS test blocks (Pre, D5, D10, D15, and Post). The Pre and Post TMS test blocks were performed immediately before and after tDCS application, whereas the TMS test blocks performed during tDCS were completed at the 5, 10, and 15 min stimulation timepoints. MEPs were analyzed with a 2 condition (tDCS, SHAM) × 5 test (Pre, D5, D10, D15, Post) within-subject ANOVA. The main effect for condition (p = 0.213), the main effect for test (p = 0.502), and the condition × test interaction (p = 0.860) were all not statistically significant. These results indicate that tDCS does not modulate contralateral M1 excitability during or immediately after application, at least under the current set of common tDCS parameters of stimulation.
The Significance of Off-Season Tailor-Made Baseline Measurements in the Assessment of Post-Concussion in University Athletes
Authors: Goto Kyosuke , Shigemori Yutaka , Tanabe Yoshitaka , Otsubo Shunya , Otsuka Nana , Terada Koki , Tsurusaki Rino , Yamaguchi Keita , Masuda Kentaro , Fukushima Hiroshi , Tachihara Muneyuki , Shimozono Hironobu , Murakami Jun
Published: July 2024

This study aimed to investigate the significance of baseline measurements for amateur team athletes playing contact and collision team sports with a specific focus on the Sports Concussion Assessment Tool (SCAT) to improve concussion management. Symptoms of sports-related concussions (SRCs) can be diverse and long-lasting and include cognitive impairment, sleep disturbances, and vestibular dysfunction. Therefore, comprehensive baseline data are essential to preventing recurrent concussions and secondary injuries. This study was conducted during the 2023 off-season and evaluated the baseline condition of 65 male university rugby players using the SCAT5, which includes self-reported symptoms, and the modified Balance Error Scoring System (mBESS). The athletes were assessed for the presence or absence of SRC, and the mean values were compared using the Mann–Whitney U test. Among the participants, 35.38% (23/65) reported symptoms, with an average of 1.5 ± 2.8 symptoms per player and an average symptom score of 2.66 ± 5.93. In the mBESS, no errors were observed in the tandem stance test; however, 72.31% (47/65) made errors in the single-leg stance test on the non-dominant foot, with an average of 1.7 ± 1.5 errors. Many athletes self-reported symptoms and balance errors, even during asymptomatic periods before experiencing concussion, indicating unresolved issues. In the injury history survey, the baseline evaluations and injury histories of the participants classified into the SRC and non-SRC groups were compared. In the mBESS single-leg stance test (non-dominant foot), 84.21% (32/38) of the SRC group participants made errors, with an average score of 2.13 ± 1.52, whereas 55.55% (15/27) of the non-SRC group participants made errors, with an average score of 1.15 ± 1.35, showing a significant difference (p = 0.007). Additionally, significant differences were observed in the average number of ankle sprains (p = 0.027) and fractures (p = 0.048) between patients with and without a history of SRC. These findings indicate that athletes may have underlying issues even during normal periods before concussion. Moreover, the results highlighted the impact of previous concussions on motor control and injury risk. This underscores the importance of preseason baseline measurements using the SCAT to identify at-risk athletes and implement preventive measures. These findings align with the recommendations of the 6th International Conference on Concussion in Sport and suggest further refinement of concussion assessment tools.
Exploring Chinese Secondary School Students’ Acceptance of Live Video-Streamed Teaching Platforms in EFL Class: An Application of the Technology Acceptance Model
Authors: Xu Jinfen , Deng Qiaoling
Published: July 2024

Live video-streamed teaching platforms are widely used in language teaching. However, how students perceive these platforms has scarcely been investigated. By adopting the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM), this study investigated Chinese secondary school students’ perceptions of the platforms (i.e., Tencent meeting, Tencent classroom and Dingtalk) being adopted in English as a foreign language (EFL) class. Gender and age differences were also investigated. Data were collected from 602 students; the results showed the following: (1) The acceptance level of all the participants was high for the five variables in TAM, i.e., perceived ease of use (PEU), perceived usefulness (PU), attitude (ATT), computer self-efficacy (CSE) and behavioral intention to use (BI), but with significant individual differences. There existed no gender differences, while age differences existed between junior high school students and those from senior high school. (2) The five variables were correlated with each other significantly. In addition, CSE, PEU, PU and ATT can predict BI in parallel. (3) The relationship between CSE and BI was mediated by PEU, PU and ATT. Also, PU had the strongest mediating effect, with PEU and ATT exerting slightly lower effects. The theoretical and practical implications are discussed at the end.
Underlying Causes of NIMBY Conflicts in Power Grid Construction Projects: An ISM–BN Model Perspective
Authors: Jiang Tao , Xu Zhenchao , Zhou Busheng , Zhang Qingyun , Liu Yong
Published: July 2024

“Not In My Back Yard” (NIMBY) conflicts have emerged as a significant challenge in the siting and construction of power grid projects. Traditional risk management methods are often inadequate for addressing the complex interactions between the multiple factors involved in such projects. To explain the relationship between different influencing factors, this paper constructs the hierarchy between the influencing factors using the Interpretive Structural Model (ISM) and carries out a causal analysis of NIMBY conflicts in power grid construction projects using the Bayesian network model. The results of the ISM hierarchical map show that high risk perception and construction practices lacking refinement are the most direct causes of NIMBY incidents. The Bayesian network model indicates that poor construction practices, negative public opinion, high risk perception, inadequate risk assessment and emergency response mechanisms, and negative externalities are the most sensitive factors within the causal system of NIMBY incidents and require priority attention. An increase in risk perception is also found to significantly escalate the severity of NIMBY conflicts. The insights gleaned in this study may provide valuable guidance for managing NIMBY conflicts in power grid construction projects.
Aluminate Long Afterglow Luminescent Materials in Road Marking Field Research Progress and Development: A Review
Authors: Zhang Fangzhi , Xie Yue , Zhao Xiaokang , He Yinzhang , Pei Jianzhong , Xing Yuanhe , Wang Shaobo , Zhang Jiupeng
Published: July 2024

This paper reviews the research progress and development of aluminate long afterglow luminescent materials in the field of road marking, especially the study of rare earth ion-activated strontium aluminate (SrAl2O4: Eu2+, Dy3+)-based long afterglow powders. This article begins by describing the importance of road markings and the need to improve their visibility and durability at night and in adverse weather conditions. Subsequently, the current passive and active methods for improving the visibility of marking materials are discussed in detail, focusing on the advantages of aluminate long afterglow materials and challenges related to their hydrolysis and thermal stability. Through the application of organic–inorganic composite coating technology, the water resistance and thermal stability of the materials can be improved, thus enhancing the performance of road markings. This article also summarizes the current research status of different types of long afterglow road marking coatings. It analyzes the luminescence mechanism of aluminate long afterglow materials. Additionally, this article discusses future research directions and application prospects. The aim is to provide technical references and support for the wide application of long afterglow self-luminous road marking coatings.
Octadecaneuropeptide, ODN, Promotes Cell Survival against 6-OHDA-Induced Oxidative Stress and Apoptosis by Modulating the Expression of miR-34b, miR-29a, and miR-21in Cultured Astrocytes
Authors: Bourzam Amine , Hamdi Yosra , Bahdoudi Seyma , Duraisamy Karthi , El Mehdi Mouna , Basille-Dugay Magali , Dlimi Omayma , Kharrat Maher , Vejux Anne , Lizard Gérard , Ghrairi Taoufik , Lefranc Benjamin , Vaudry David , Boutin Jean A. , Leprince Jérôme , Masmoudi-Kouki Olfa
Published: July 2024

Astrocytes specifically synthesize and release endozepines, a family of regulatory peptides including octadecaneuropeptide (ODN). We have previously reported that ODN rescues neurons and astrocytes from 6-OHDA-induced oxidative stress and cell death. The purpose of this study was to examine the potential implication of miR-34b, miR-29a, and miR-21 in the protective activity of ODN on 6-OHDA-induced oxidative stress and cell death in cultured rat astrocytes. Flow cytometry analysis showed that 6-OHDA increased the number of early apoptotic and apoptotic dead cells while treatment with the subnanomolar dose of ODN significantly reduced the number of apoptotic cells induced by 6-OHDA. 6-OHDA-treated astrocytes exhibited the over-expression of miR-21 (+118%) associated with a knockdown of miR-34b (−61%) and miR-29a (−49%). Co-treatment of astrocytes with ODN blocked the 6-OHDA-stimulated production of ROS and NO and stimulation of Bax and caspase-3 gene transcription. Concomitantly, ODN down-regulated the expression of miR-34b and miR-29a and rescued the 6-OHDA-associated reduced expression of miR21, indicating that ODN regulates their expression during cell death. Transfection with miR-21-3p inhibitor prevented the effect of 6-OHDA against cell death. In conclusion, our study indicated that (i) the expression of miRNAs miR-34b, miR-29a, and miR-21 is modified in astrocytes under 6-OHDA injury and (ii) that ODN prevents this deregulation to induce its neuroprotective action. The present study identified miR-21 as an emerging candidate and as a promising pharmacological target that opens new neuroprotective therapeutic strategies in neurodegenerative diseases, especially in Parkinson’s disease.
“It Seems Much More Enjoyable Now”: Parental Perception of Relational Change from Participating in Paediatric Autism Communication Therapy (PACT)
Authors: Conrad Charlotte Engberg , Jørgensen Rikke , Amstrup Cecilie , Gottschau Tine Ellitsgaard , Thomsen Per Hove , Lauritsen Marlene Briciet
Published: July 2024

Objectives: This qualitative study aims to examine parental experiences of feasibility and relational changes from participating in the Paediatric Autism Communication Therapy (PACT) intervention. Methods: Thirteen parents of children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (mean age 3.89 years) participated in semi-structured interviews. Thematic analysis was performed, inspired by an abductive approach informed by the theories of the attachment system, the caregiving system and mentalisation. Results: Three overarching themes were identified: the struggle of fitting PACT into everyday life, the fruit of relational connection and the cascading relational effects of PACT. Parents were challenged regarding finding time for the intervention but adapted PACT to their individual needs and possibilities. All parents experienced relational improvement, and a cycle of positive relational change through PACT was identified. Conclusions: This study has several clinical implications. Therapists and clinics offering PACT interventions should encourage and support parents in their individual journey of implementing PACT into their everyday lives. Some of the parents described improvements in parental mentalisation, child attachment and mutual enjoyment in the parent–child relationship. Children with autism could benefit from parents increasing their sensitivity when caregiving, and clinicians may through interventions such as PACT facilitate this development.
Auto-Machine-Learning Models for Standardized Precipitation Index Prediction in North–Central Mexico
Authors: Magallanes-Quintanar Rafael , Galván-Tejada Carlos E. , Galván-Tejada Jorge Isaac , Gamboa-Rosales Hamurabi , Méndez-Gallegos Santiago de Jesús , García-Domínguez Antonio
Published: July 2024

Certain impacts of climate change could potentially be linked to alterations in rainfall patterns, including shifts in rainfall intensity or drought occurrences. Hence, predicting droughts can provide valuable assistance in mitigating the detrimental consequences associated with water scarcity, particularly in agricultural areas or densely populated urban regions. Employing predictive models to calculate drought indices can be a useful method for the effective characterization of drought conditions. This study applied an Auto-Machine-Learning approach to deploy Artificial Neural Network models, aiming to predict the Standardized Precipitation Index in four regions of Zacatecas, Mexico. Climatological time-series data spanning from 1979 to 2020 were utilized as predictive variables. The best models were found using performance metrics that yielded a Mean Squared Error, Mean Absolute Error, and Coefficient of Determination ranging from 0.0296 to 0.0388, 0.1214 to 0.1355, and 0.9342 to 0.9584, respectively, for the regions under study. As a result, the Auto-Machine-Learning approach successfully developed and tested Artificial Neural Network models that exhibited notable predictive capabilities when estimating the monthly Standardized Precipitation Index within the study region.
Finite Element Simulation of Dry Wear of Prosthesis Made of UHMWPE and 316LVM Stainless Steel
Authors: de la Mora Ramírez Tomas , López Elías Crispín , Onofre Daniel Maldonado , Moreno Elvis Coutiño , Perrusquia Noé López , Ruíz Marco A. Doñu , San Miguel Christhopher René Torres
Published: July 2024

The study of wear is currently one of the most important aspects of applied mechanics. The damage caused by this phenomenon involves the total replacement of parts in devices ranging from industrial machinery to biomedical implants. The focus of these work is aimed at the analysis and prediction of mechanical wear in prostheses manufactured using UHMWPE materials and 316 LVM stainless steel by means of the finite element method using Abaqus® software V. 2020. The wear mechanism between the surfaces of the UHMWPE material specimen and a 316 LVM stainless steel specimen was modeled using Archard’s wear theory to determine the parameters of damage, plastic deformation, and fatigue. The attrition process was discretized into several steps, including developing a program in Fortran code, and integrating a pre-established subroutine known as UMESHMOTION, followed by a Mesh update whenever contact nodes were deformed. For the simulation process, the variables of the thermal properties of conductivity, specific heat, and the parameters of the Johnson-Cook plastic model were taken into account. The simulation results were validated by laboratory tests.
Plant Essential Oil Nanoemulgel as a Cosmeceutical Ingredient: A Review
Authors: Yap Xing Fui , Saw Seow Hoon , Lim Vuanghao , Tan Chin Xuan
Published: July 2024

Essential oils (EOs) are concentrated, hydrophobic volatile compounds derived from different parts of plants. They are recognized for their diverse and versatile functional properties. Approximately 90% of EOs are administered via topical or transdermal routes. However, EOs are susceptible to oxidation, and their high volatility often poses a challenge to the transdermal delivery of their bioactive constituents. Additionally, the direct application of pure EOs on the skin may result in irritating effects. Hence, various novel carrier systems have been explored for the topical application of EOs. Among these, nanoemulgel has received particular attention from the cosmeceutical industry. It is a hybrid technology combining nanoemulsion and a gelling phase, which can enhance the bioadhesivity of EOs, at the same time minimizing their irritating effects. This review summarizes the methods of EO extraction, steps and factors influencing the preparation of EO nanoemulgel, and characterization parameters for nanoemulgel studies. The potential cosmeceutical applications of EO nanoemulgels as an anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antioxidant, and penetration enhancer are also compiled and discussed.
Invasion of Sicyos angulatus in Riparian Habitats in the Jiu and Danube Area (Romania)
Authors: Niculescu Mariana , Iancu Paula , Păniță Ovidiu Florin
Published: July 2024

Sicyos angulatus (Cucurbitaceae) is an invasive species because of its rapid growth rate, intensive dispersal and ability to adapt to a wide range of environments. It has become an invasive species in the Ostroveni area, an area at the confluence of the Jiu River and the Danube River in the Oltenia region of Romania. This species spreads, climbs and takes over everything in its path. It can also outcompete native plants very quickly as it is a prolific breeder. The aim of this study was to demonstrate the invasive potential of S. angulatus in the forests of the Jiu and Danube confluence area by calculating several indicator values. The results showed that the number of plants varies depending on factors such as location, water availability and shade. They also showed that S. angulatus is a plant that occupies its niche in the ecosystem and has a negative impact on the local flora. Population control should therefore start with early detection, so that control and eradication are less costly.
Placental ACE2 Expression: A Possible Pathogenetic Mechanism for Infantile Hemangiomas
Authors: Marco Aurora De , Cazzato Gerardo , Maggialetti Rosalba , Ingravallo Giuseppe , Fanelli Margherita , Vimercati Antonella , Cicinelli Ettore , Laforgia Nicola , Neri Iria , Bonifazi Ernesto , Bonamonte Domenico
Published: July 2024

ACE2 is a mono-carboxypeptidase with remarkable vasculo-protective properties, and its expression in the human placenta plays a central role in blood pressure homeostasis and fetal perfusion. Therefore, an alteration in the placental expression of ACE2 could be responsible for reduced placental perfusion and infantile hemangioma (IH) development. Study placentae were collected from patients affected by IHs who were referred to our Dermatology Clinic from 2016 to 2022, while control placentae were randomly collected while matching cases for gestational age. Immunohistochemical investigations were performed with a recombinant anti-ACE2 rabbit monoclonal antibody. A total of 47 placentae were examined, including 20 study placentae and 27 control ones. The mean placental weight was significantly lower in the study group (380.6 g vs. 502.3 g; p = 0.005), while subclinical chorioamnionitis occurred more frequently in the study group (20% vs. 0%, p = 0.03). The mean ACE2 expression was dramatically lower in the study group (χ2 = 42.1 p < 0.001), and the mean placental weight was significantly lower when ACE2 was not expressed compared to the 25–75% and >75% classes of expression (p < 0.05). This study demonstrated that ACE2, as a marker for tissue hypoxia, is dramatically hypo-expressed in placentae belonging to mothers who delivered one or more babies with IH compared to the controls.
Breast Cancer Leptomeningeal Metastases on Spinal Epidural Lipomatosis
Authors: Rossi Alice , Sancini Giada , Amadori Elena , Cenni Patrizia , Palleschi Michela , Prochowski Iamurri Andrea
Published: July 2024

We present a case of breast cancer metastases superimposed on epidural lipomatosis and although none of these findings are considered rare, their coexistence leads to unique image findings, and as far as we know there are no other cases like this in literature.
Using Finite Element Models to Assess Spinal Cord Biomechanics after Cervical Laminoplasty for Degenerative Cervical Myelopathy
Authors: Rahman Mahmudur , Palmer Peter , Harinathan Balaji , Banurekha Devaraj Karthik , Yoganandan Narayan , Vedantam Aditya
Published: July 2024

Cervical laminoplasty is an established motion-preserving procedure for degenerative cervical myelopathy (DCM). However, patients with pre-existing cervical kyphosis often experience inferior outcomes compared to those with straight or lordotic spines. Limited dorsal spinal cord shift in kyphotic spines post-decompression and increased spinal cord tension may contribute to poor neurological recovery and spinal cord injury. This study aims to quantify the biomechanical impact of cervical sagittal alignment on spinal cord stress and strain post-laminoplasty using a validated 3D finite element model of the C2–T1 spine. Three models were created based on the C2–C7 Cobb angle: lordosis (20 degrees), straight (0 degrees), and kyphosis (−9 degrees). Open-door laminoplasty was simulated at C4, C5, and C6 levels, followed by physiological neck flexion and extension. The results showed that spinal cord stress and strain were highest in kyphotic curvature compared to straight and lordotic curvatures across all cervical segments, despite similar segmental ROM. In flexion, kyphotic spines exhibited 103.3% higher stress and 128.9% higher strain than lordotic spines and 16.7% higher stress and 26.8% higher strain than straight spines. In extension, kyphotic spines showed 135.4% higher stress and 241.7% higher strain than lordotic spines and 21.5% higher stress and 43.2% higher strain than straight spines. The study shows that cervical kyphosis leads to increased spinal cord stress and strain post-laminoplasty, underscoring the need to address sagittal alignment in addition to decompression for optimal patient outcomes.
In Vivo Photoacoustic Ultrasound (PAUS) Assay for Monitoring Tendon Collagen Compositional Changes during Injury and Healing
Authors: Newton Joseph B. , Nuss Courtney A. , Weiss Stephanie N. , Betts Rebecca L. , Sehgal Chandra M. , Soslowsky Louis J.
Published: July 2024

Tendon injury and healing involve significant changes to tissue biology and composition. Current techniques often require animal sacrifice or tissue destruction, limiting assessment of dynamic changes in tendons, including treatment response, disease development, rupture risk, and healing progression. Changes in tendon composition, such as altered collagen content, can significantly impact tendon mechanics and function. Analyses of compositional changes typically require ex vivo techniques with animal sacrifice or destruction of the tissue. In vivo evaluation of tendons is critical for longitudinal assessment. We hypothesize that photoacoustic ultrasound detects differences in collagen concentration throughout healing. We utilized photoacoustic ultrasound, a hybrid imaging modality that combines ultrasound and laser-induced photoacoustic signals to create detailed and high-resolution images of tendons, to identify its endogenous collagen composition. We correlated the photoacoustic signal to picrosirius red staining. The results show that the photoacoustic ultrasound-estimated collagen content in tendons correlates well with picrosirius red staining. This study demonstrates that photoacoustic ultrasound can assess injury-induced compositional changes within tendons and is the first study to image these targets in rat Achilles tendon in vivo.
The Effect of Cancer and Cancer Treatment on Pubic Symphysis Age Estimation Using Computed Tomography Scans
Authors: Alibrio Maya N. , Tallman Sean D.
Published: July 2024

It is currently unknown whether cancer and cancer treatment affect age-related skeletal changes used in the biological profile for skeletonized remains. This research examines the effects of cancer on skeletal age estimation using computed tomography (CT) scans of the pubic symphyses for 307 individuals from the New Mexico Descendent Image Database. The Suchey–Brooks method was applied to 125 individuals without documented cancer and 182 individuals with documented cancer. Individuals were correctly aged if their chronological age fell within the original study’s 95% prediction range. Though not statistically significant, the results show that females with cancer were aged correctly 74.7% of the time, and females without cancer were aged correctly 85.1% of the time; males with cancer were aged correctly 46.0% of the time, and males without cancer were aged correctly 55.7% of the time. Additionally, a total of 30 individuals were reanalyzed to examine intraobserver error, and a Cohen’s kappa value of k = 0.600 indicated a moderate level of agreement. While no statistical differences were found between cancer and control groups, CT scans may lack the resolution needed to visualize the nuanced effects of bone mineral density loss, if present, and the overall quality of bone, despite their proven utility in dry-bone skeletal analyses.
Six-Degree-of-Freedom Freehand 3D Ultrasound: A Low-Cost Computer Vision-Based Approach for Orthopedic Applications
Authors: De Sanctis Lorenzo , Carnevale Arianna , Antonacci Carla , Faiella Eliodoro , Schena Emiliano , Longo Umile Giuseppe
Published: July 2024

In orthopedics, X-rays and computed tomography (CT) scans play pivotal roles in diagnosing and treating bone pathologies. Machine bulkiness and the emission of ionizing radiation remain the main problems associated with these techniques. The accessibility and low risks related to ultrasound handling make it a popular 2D imaging method. Indeed, 3D ultrasound assembles 2D slices into a 3D volume. This study aimed to implement a probe-tracking method for 6 DoF 3D ultrasound. The proposed method involves a dodecahedron with ArUco markers attached, enabling computer vision tracking of the ultrasound probe’s position and orientation. The algorithm focuses on the data acquisition phase but covers the basic reconstruction required for data generation and analysis. In the best case, the analysis revealed an average error norm of 2.858 mm with a standard deviation norm of 5.534 mm compared to an infrared optical tracking system used as a reference. This study demonstrates the feasibility of performing volumetric imaging without ionizing radiation or bulky systems. This marker-based approach shows promise for enhancing orthopedic imaging, providing a more accessible imaging modality for helping clinicians to diagnose pathologies regarding complex joints, such as the shoulder, replacing standard infrared tracking systems known to suffer from marker occlusion problems.
Computer-Animated Videos in Education: A Comprehensive Review and Teacher Experiences from Animation Creation
Authors: Kleftodimos Alexandros
Published: July 2024

Animated videos have been used in education for many years, and their efficacy in enhancing student motivation, engagement, and performance has been evaluated and reported in many studies. The aim of this study is twofold. First, after examining seventy-seven research articles, this study will attempt to provide an updated comprehensive literature review on the topic for the last decade. The articles were obtained from Google Scholar and Scopus following a certain methodology (search keywords, inclusion and exclusion criteria). The articles were examined for aspects such as the educational fields in which animated videos have been utilized over the last ten years, the researchers’ countries, the types of animated videos, the software tools used to create the educational animations, the research methods employed, and the aims and findings of the studies. The second part of this paper will present animated videos produced by teachers together with their experiences from the development process and classroom use. This study concentrates on the software tools the educators chose to use and their perceptions about developing their own animations. Findings indicate that when animated videos are produced by teachers, their creativity is boosted, and their communication skills are enhanced.
Comparative Analysis of Five Forensic PCR Kits in Duplets
Authors: Cseppentő Tamás , Valis Norbert G. , Bárány Gusztáv , Megadja Bálint , Heinrich Attila , Magonyi Nóra M.
Published: July 2024

In forensic DNA laboratories, it is important to conduct internal validations of the commercially available kits of short tandem repeat (STR) loci and to investigate their individual and combined effectiveness. This study aims to report on a comparative investigation of the forensic kits used in our laboratory and their combinations in analysing low-copy-number (LCN) human DNA samples. We used five partly overlapping multiplex kits with different marker configurations from different manufacturers: the NGM SelectTM PCR Amplification Kit, NGM DetectTM, the GlobalFilerTM Amplification Kit (Applied BiosystemTM, Foster City, CA, USA), the PowerPlex® Fusion 6C System (Promega Co., Madison, WI, USA) and the Investigator® 24plex QS Kit (Qiagen GmbH, Hilden, Germany). The efficacy of the kits was scrutinised by specific criteria, such as allelic dropout rate, the individually calculated Likelihood Ratio (LR) of consensus profiles and the LR value of the composite profile produced by the combined profiles of two kits. According to the results, the pairing of PowerPlex® Fusion 6C System and Investigator® 24plex QS produced the lowest, while the pairing of the NGM DetectTM and GlobalFilerTM kits provided the highest LR value. In summary, our study is meant to aid the selection of the optimal kit combination for samples of different qualities.
Advancement Challenges in UAV Swarm Formation Control: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Bu Yajun , Yan Ye , Yang Yueneng
Published: July 2024

This paper provides an in-depth analysis of the current research landscape in the field of UAV (Unmanned Aerial Vehicle) swarm formation control. This review examines both conventional control methods, including leader–follower, virtual structure, behavior-based, consensus-based, and artificial potential field, and advanced AI-based (Artificial Intelligence) methods, such as artificial neural networks and deep reinforcement learning. It highlights the distinct advantages and limitations of each approach, showcasing how conventional methods offer reliability and simplicity, while AI-based strategies provide adaptability and sophisticated optimization capabilities. This review underscores the critical need for innovative solutions and interdisciplinary approaches combining conventional and AI methods to overcome existing challenges and fully exploit the potential of UAV swarms in various applications.
A Robust and Lightweight Loop Closure Detection Approach for Challenging Environments
Authors: Shi Yuan , Li Rui , Shi Yingjing , Liang Shaofeng
Published: July 2024

Loop closure detection is crucial for simultaneous localization and mapping (SLAM), as it can effectively correct the accumulated errors. Complex scenarios put forward high requirements on the robustness of loop closure detection. Traditional feature-based loop closure detection methods often fail to meet these challenges. To solve this problem, this paper proposes a robust and efficient deep-learning-based loop closure detection approach. We employ MixVPR to extract global descriptors from keyframes and construct a global descriptor database. For local feature extraction, SuperPoint is utilized. Then, the constructed global descriptor database is used to find the loop frame candidates, and LightGlue is subsequently used to match the most similar loop frame and current keyframe with the local features. After matching, the relative pose can be computed. Our approach is first evaluated on several public datasets, and the results prove that our approach is highly robust to complex environments. The proposed approach is further validated on a real-world dataset collected by a drone and achieves accurate performance and shows good robustness in challenging conditions. Additionally, an analysis of time and memory costs is also conducted and proves that our approach can maintain accuracy and have satisfactory real-time performance as well.
Educational Assessment Knowledge and Skills for Teachers Revisited
Authors: Brookhart Susan M.
Published: July 2024

In this article, I provide an update to a previous list of Educational Assessment Knowledge and Skills for Teachers. I argue that recent work in classroom assessment suggests expanding the list in several ways, adding additional statements about formative assessment’s connection to student learning and statements about assessment practices in their various contexts. This view of educational assessment knowledge and skills for teachers as contextual and situated was absent from the original 2011 list.
Early Childhood Educators’ Fear of Injury Risks Limits Movement and Physical Activity for Children—A Risk in Itself!
Authors: Sollerhed Ann-Christin
Published: July 2024

Many children spend a large proportion of their waking hours in early childhood education and care (ECEC). Movement and physical activity (PA) are crucial for children’s development and sustainable health. The competence to manage and assess risks starts early in life and can be improved through opportunities for challenging PA. The aim of this study was to investigate ECEC educators’ experiences and perceptions of injury risks in ECEC and examine their reasoning about teaching movement and PA, and experiences of any restrictions and prohibitions of movement and PA. Eighteen ECEC educators were interviewed. The qualitative content analysis revealed three themes with adherent sub-themes: Responsibility for the children (Caretaking and Empathy); Fear of being accused (Fear of being exposed and Fear of being irresponsible in the work team); Low competence in movement (Low expectations of children and Perceived poor personal movement skills). The study concluded that educators’ fear of injury risks limits the children’s movement and PA occasions. The educators’ perceived poor personal motor skills and low fitness combined with their perceived low competence to teach movement limit the possibility for the children to develop their motor skills, which in turn might affect the children’s physical literacy for sustainable health.
Condensation and Precipitation of Water Vapor: The Emergence of a Precursor Model through the Engineering Design Process
Authors: Ioannou Michalis , Kaliampos George , Ravanis Konstantinos
Published: July 2024

Early Childhood Science Education, within a wide range of research topics, studies mental representations of children aged 3–8 years about natural phenomena. Recently, there has been a strong scientific interest in the way children construct precursor mental models. The current study attempts to address children’s mental representations of clouds, as well as condensation and the precipitation of water vapour. To fulfill this goal, a qualitative study was implemented involving 19 preschool children. Specifically, the survey included pre-tests and post-tests for recording children’s mental representations, as well as a structured teaching process. The main activities of this teaching process followed the four stages of the Engineering Design Process and a STEAM approach, adapted both to children’s cognitive needs and the conditions of a real classroom. The results showed that most children of this age (mean age: 5.05 years) were able to approach the concepts of condensation and precipitation, as well as the process of cloud creation. It seems, therefore, that it is possible for young children’s initial mental representations to be transformed into representations compatible with school knowledge. Finally, the data and the results of the research lead to the conclusion that children of this age are capable of constructing a precursor model about clouds and the phenomena of condensation and precipitation.
Teacher Leadership, Wellbeing, and Intent to Leave in US Rural Schools: Evidence from the 2020–21 National Teacher and Principal Survey
Authors: Engle Jordan , Xia Jiangang , Butler Sam
Published: July 2024

Leadership in rural schools is well studied. However, few studies have investigated how teacher leadership influences rural teacher job satisfaction, burnout, and attrition. This study aimed to fill the research gap by analyzing data from the 2020–21 National Teacher and Principal Survey (NTPS), focusing on U.S. rural teachers. Using a sample of approximately 8910 rural teachers selected through a two-stage sampling process, this research examines the associations between teacher leadership, teacher wellbeing, and their intent to leave. The survey, administered by the National Center for Educational Statistics (NCES), included measures of teacher leadership (instructional and non-instructional), job satisfaction, burnout, and intent to leave. The authors found that (a) rural teachers with higher levels of teacher leadership reported higher levels of job satisfaction and lower levels of burnout, (b) rural teachers with higher levels of job satisfaction or lower levels of burnout are less likely to leave or move, and (c) instructional and particularly non-instructional teacher leadership are indirectly linked to teacher intent to leave or move through job satisfaction and burnout. The discussions, conclusions, and implications for school policy and school leadership are presented.
From the Spherical Earth Model to the Globe: The Effectiveness of a Planetary Model-Building Intervention
Authors: Jelinek Jan Amos
Published: July 2024

The shape of the Earth is a fundamental concept that students need to learn in astronomy education. This paper reports the findings of a study that confirms the effectiveness of an intervention involving the construction of a model of the Earth prior to the introduction of the globe as a codified artefact. The educational intervention had been preceded by the EARTH2 test, which was used to check how well students participating in the study mastered the concept of the Earth’s shape. The study included forty-seven primary school students (grades I and II). Effectiveness was measured by comparing the answers chosen by Polish children in a test as mental models. The study confirmed (A) that the intervention was effective: 49% of progressive changes, 30% of regressive changes, and 21% of changes within the same mental model were observed; (B) that there was an increase in the children’s interest in space, revealed by an increased number of questions going far beyond the school astronomy curriculum; and (C) that students’ concerns about the dangers of space were revealed. Key findings include the following: (a) Educational effectiveness regarding the concept of the shape of the Earth is achieved in activities that involve building a spherical Earth model before introducing a globe as a ready-made model. (b) The topics addressed in astronomy classes must be far broader than what the current curricula provide. They should take into account current issues reported by the media and deal with astronomical discoveries and space technology. (c) When organising activities, children’s concerns about the dangers of space should be borne in mind.
Mapping the Landscape of Data Science Education in Higher General Education in Taiwan: A Comprehensive Syllabi Analysis
Authors: Hsu Yu-Chia
Published: July 2024

The evolving landscape of data science education poses challenges for instructors in general education classes. With the expansion of higher education dedicated to cultivating data scientists, integrating data science education into university curricula has become imperative. However, addressing diverse student backgrounds underscores the need for a systematic review of course content and design. This study systematically reviews 60 data science courses syllabi in general education across all universities in Taiwan. Utilizing content analysis, bibliometric, and text-mining methodologies, this study quantifies key metrics found within syllabi, including instructional materials, assessment techniques, learning objectives, and covered topics. The study highlights infrequent textbook sharing, with particular focus on Python programming. Assessment methods primarily involve participation, assignments, and projects. Analysis of Bloom’s Taxonomy suggests a focus on moderate complexity learning objectives. The topics covered prioritize big data competency, analytical techniques, programming competency, and teaching strategies in descending order. This study makes a valuable contribution to the current knowledge by tackling the challenge of delineating the specific content of data science. It also provides valuable references for potentially streamlining the integration of multiple disciplines within introductory courses while ensuring flexibility for students with varying programming and statistical proficiencies in the realm of data science education.
PerFreezeClip: Personalized Federated Learning Based on Adaptive Clipping
Authors: Zhang Jianfei , Liu Zhilin
Published: July 2024

The problem of data heterogeneity is one of the main challenges facing federated learning (FL). Non-IID data usually introduce bias in the training process of FL models, which can impact the accuracy and convergence speed of the models. To this end, we propose a personalized federated learning (PFL) algorithm with adaptive dynamic adjustment of the gradient clipping boundaries and the idea of freezing to reduce the influence of non-IID data on the model, called PerFreezeClip. PerFreezeClip is a design decision regarding parameter architecture, comparing the private and federated models. PerFreezeClip facilitates the training of each device based on an adaptive clipping gradient during training, with more rational updates and more stable gradients. The results based on the CIFAR-10 and CIFAR-100 datasets show that the proposed PerFreezeClip algorithm provides higher test accuracy after controlling the gradient: a maximum of a 50% enhancement compared to typical federated learning (non-personalized) algorithms.
A Fast Operation Method for Predicting Stress in Nonlinear Boom Structures Based on RS–XGBoost–RF Model
Authors: Dong Qing , Su Youcheng , Xu Gening , She Lingjuan , Chang Yibin
Published: July 2024

The expeditious and precise prediction of stress variations in nonlinear boom structures is paramount for ensuring the safe, dependable, and effective operation of pump trucks. Nonetheless, balancing prediction accuracy and efficiency by constructing a suitable machine-learning model remains a challenge in engineering practice. To this end, this paper introduces an interpretable fusion model named RS–XGBoost–RF (Random Search–Extreme Gradient Boosting Tree–Random Forest) and develops an intelligent algorithm for the stress prediction of the nonlinear boom structure of concrete pump trucks. Firstly, an information acquisition system is deployed to collect relevant data from the boom systems of ZLJ5440THBBF 56X-6RZ concrete pump trucks during its operational phase. Data pre-processing is conducted on the 2.4 million sets of acquired data. Then, a sample dataset of typical working conditions is obtained. Secondly, the RS algorithm, RF model, and XGBoost model are selected based on their complementary strengths to construct the fusion model. The model fusion condition is established with a focus on prediction efficiency. By leveraging the synergy between search and prediction mechanisms, the RS–XGBoost model is constructed for the prediction of the master hyperparameters of the RF model. This model uses the random search (RS) process to obtain the mapping between the loss function and the hyperparameters. This mapping relationship is then learned using the XGBoost model, and the hyperparameter value with the smallest loss value is predicted. Finally, the RS–XGBoost–RF model with optimized hyperparameters is employed to achieve rapid stress prediction at various detection points of the nonlinear boom structure. The findings demonstrate that, within the acceptable prediction efficiency for engineering practice, the fitting accuracy (R2) of the RS–XGBoost–RF model consistently exceeds 0.955 across all measurement points, with only a few exceptions. Concerning the stress magnitudes themselves, the mean absolute error (MAE) and root mean square error (RMSE) are maintained within the ranges of 2.22% to 3.91% and 4.79% to 7.85%, respectively. In comparison with RS–RF–RF, RS–RF–XGBoost, and RS–XGBoost–XGBoost, the proposed model exhibits the optimal prediction performance. The method delineated in this paper offers valuable insights for expeditious structural stress prediction in the realm of inherent safety within construction machinery.
Wheel Drive Driverless Vehicle Handling and Stability Control Based on Multi-Directional Motion Coupling
Authors: Wang Kai , Luo Yi , Du Lifang , Wu Zhongping , Wang Han
Published: July 2024

To fully unleash the performance potential of the Wheel Drive Driverless Vehicle (WDDV) and enhance its handling stability across a wide range of extreme operating conditions, this paper proposes a novel approach for designing a multi-directional motion coupling control system. Firstly, an analysis of the unmanned driving modes of the WDDV is conducted, followed by the establishment of a method for defining the control target parameter set for handling stability. Subsequently, a coupled dynamic model that considers the wheel drive counter force is developed. Building this model, a method for estimating the handling stability state is introduced, focusing on improving both handling and stability aspects. Furthermore, by combining the sliding mode control algorithm with the coupled dynamic model, a design methodology for a multi-directional motion coupling control law that adapts to extreme operating conditions is proposed. Finally, through comprehensive simulation experiments and testbed, the effectiveness of the proposed multi-directional motion coupling control system is validated, demonstrating superior handling stability compared to the decoupled control system.