Search Results (976)

Knowledge tracing (KT), a core educational data mining task, models students’ evolving knowledge states to predict future learning. In online education systems, the exercises are numerous, but they are typically associated with only a few concepts. However, existing models rarely integrate exercise information with high-order exercise–concept correlations, focusing solely on optimizing models’ final predictive performance. To address these limitations, we propose the Hypergraph-Driven High-Order Knowledge Tracing with a Dual-Gated Dynamic Mechanism (HGKT), a novel framework that (1) captures correlations between exercises and concepts through a two-layer hypergraph convolution; (2) integrates hypergraph-driven exercise embedding and temporal features (answer time and interval time) to characterize learning behavioral dynamics; and (3) designs a learning layer and a forgetting layer, with the dual-gating mechanism dynamically balancing their impacts on the knowledge state. Experiments on three public datasets demonstrate that the proposed HGKT model achieves superior predictive performance compared to all baselines. On the longest interaction sequence dataset, ASSISChall, HGKT improves prediction AUC by least 1.8%. On the biggest interaction records dataset, EdNet-KT1, it maintains a state-of-the-art AUC of 0.78372. Visualization analyses confirm its interpretability in tracing knowledge state evolution. These results validate HGKT’s effectiveness in modeling high-order exercise–concept correlations while ensuring practical adaptability in real-world online education platforms. Full article

Background: High-intensity gait training (HIT) is an evidence-based intervention recommended for stroke rehabilitation; however, its implementation in routine practice is inconsistent. This study examined the real-world implementation of HIT in an inpatient rehabilitation setting in Norway, focusing on fidelity, barriers, and knowledge translation (KT) strategies. Methods: Using the Knowledge-to-Action (KTA) framework, HIT was implemented in three phases: pre-implementation, implementation, and competency. Fidelity metrics and coverage were assessed in 99 participants post-stroke. Barriers and facilitators were documented and categorized using the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research. Results: HIT was delivered with improved fidelity during the implementation and competency phases, reflected by increased stepping and heart rate metrics. A coverage rate of 52% was achieved. Barriers evolved over time, beginning with logistical and knowledge challenges and shifting toward decision-making complexity. The KT interventions, developed collaboratively by clinicians and external facilitators, supported implementation. Conclusions: Structured pre-implementation planning, clinician engagement, and external facilitation enabled high-fidelity HIT implementation in a real-world setting. Pragmatic, context-sensitive strategies were critical to overcoming evolving barriers. Future research should examine scalable, adaptive KT strategies that balance theoretical guidance with clinical feasibility to sustain evidence-based practice in rehabilitation. Full article

The growing number of senior experts leaving the workforce (especially in more developed economies, such as in Europe), combined with the ubiquitous access to artificial intelligence (AI), is triggering organizations to review their knowledge transfer programs, motivated by both financial and management perspectives. Our study aims to contribute to the field by analyzing options to integrate intergenerational tacit knowledge transfer (InterGenTacitKT) with AI-driven approaches, offering a novel perspective on sustainable Knowledge and Human Resource Management in organizations. We will do this by building on previous research and by extracting findings from 36 in-depth semi-structured interviews that provided success factors for junior/senior tandems (JuSeTs) as one notable format of tacit knowledge transfer. We also refer to the literature, in a grounded theory iterative process, analyzing current findings on the use of AI in tacit knowledge transfer and triangulating and critically synthesizing these sources of data. We suggest that adding AI into a tandem situation can facilitate collaboration and thus aid in knowledge transfer and trust-building. We posit that AI can offer strong complementary services for InterGenTacitKT by fostering the identified success factors for JuSeTs (clarity of roles, complementary skill sets, matching personalities, and trust), thus offering organizations a powerful means to enhance the effectiveness and sustainability of InterGenTacitKT that also strengthens employee productivity, satisfaction, and loyalty and overall organizational competitiveness. Full article

The study investigates the influence of microstructures on fatigue behavior and failure mechanisms of the α-β titanium alloy Ti6246, fabricated via Powder Bed Fusion-Laser Beam (PBF-LB). In particular, the investigation assesses the effect of two post-processing heat treatments, namely α-β annealing at 875 °C (AN875) and solution treatment at 825 °C followed by aging at 500 °C (STA825), on the alloy’s rotating and bending fatigue behavior. The results indicate that the STA825 condition provides superior fatigue resistance (+25%) compared to AN875, due to the presence of a finer bilamellar microstructure, characterized by thinner primary α lamellae (α_p) and a more homogeneous distribution of secondary α lamellae (α_s) within the β matrix. Additionally, an investigation conducted using the Kitagawa–Takahashi (KT) approach and the El-Haddad model, based on the relationship between the fatigue limit and defect sensitivity, revealed improved crack propagation resistance from pre-existing defects (ΔK_th) for the STA825 condition compared to AN875. Notably, the presence of fine α_s after aging for STA825 is effective in delaying crack nucleation and propagation at early stages, while refined α_p contributes to hindering macrocrack growth. The fatigue behavior of the STA825-treated Ti6246 alloy was even superior to that of the PBF-LB-processed Ti64, representing a viable alternative for the production of high-performance components in the automotive and aerospace sectors. Full article

Bcakground: The deepithelialized free gingival graft (DGG) technique provides high-quality connective tissue grafts (CTGs) with predictable outcomes for recession coverage. This study evaluates a novel method of free gingival graft (FGG) deepithelialization using an Er,Cr:YSGG laser (LDEE) for treating multiple gingival recessions. Methods: A split-mouth study was conducted on 46 (n = 46) recessions in nine patients (23 per test and control group). Sites were randomized. Full-thickness palatal grafts were harvested with a scalpel. In the test group (LDEE), deepithelialization was performed extraorally using an Er,Cr:YSGG laser (2780 nm; 2.5 W, 83.3 mJ, 30 Hz, 600 µm tip). In the control group (DEE), a 15c scalpel was used. All CTGs were applied using the modified coronally advanced tunnel (TUN) technique. Clinical parameters—recession depth (RD), keratinized tissue width (KT), gingival thickness (GT), pocket depth (PD), clinical attachment loss (CAL), pink esthetic score (PES), approximal plaque index (API), mean root coverage (MRC), and complete root coverage (CRC)—were assessed at baseline (T0), 3 months (T1), and 6 months (T2). Results: Both LDEE and DEE groups showed significant improvements in RD, KT, GT, PD, and CAL over time (p < 0.001). At T1 and T2, KT was significantly higher in the LDEE group (T1: 3.73 ± 0.72 mm; T2: 3.98 ± 0.76 mm) compared to the DEE group (T1: 3.21 ± 0.61 mm; T2: 3.44 ± 0.74 mm; p < 0.05). Other parameters (RD, GT, PD, CAL) showed no statistically significant intergroup differences at any time point (p > 0.05). After 6 months, MRC was 95% and CRC 82.6% for LDEE, compared to 94.8% and 82.6% for DEE (p > 0.05). PES scores were similar between groups at all time points (p > 0.05). Conclusions: Both laser- and scalpel-deepithelialized grafts effectively treated gingival recessions. LDEE combined with TUN resulted in significantly greater KT width compared to DEE + TUN. Full article

Background/Objectives: Pelvic floor disorders (PFDs) have multifactorial etiology. This makes treatment challenging and often unsatisfactory. This project introduces robust data on risk factors for PFDs and explores opportunities for their prevention, focusing on previous gynecological surgical interventions. Methods: We conducted a retrospective analytical cohort study analyzing demographic and clinical data from 832 consecutive patients who underwent pelvic organ prolapse (POP) surgery at a teaching hospital affiliated with the University of Cologne between 2010 and 2019. Patient characteristics—including age, body mass index (BMI), parity, mode of delivery, and symptoms—were collected from medical records. Associations between patient factors and surgical history were assessed using Kendall’s Tau (KT) for correlations and relative risks (RRs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) to evaluate the impact of previous hysterectomies and pelvic surgeries on PFD. Results: First vaginal delivery and age were the strongest factors associated with PFD. BMI had a smaller impact, and multiple vaginal deliveries did not significantly influence apical (KT 0.037), posterior (KT 0.007), anterior midline (KT 0.015), or lateral defects (KT 0.015). Cesarean section was protective. Subtotal hysterectomy showed no significant association with PFD. Total hysterectomy was strongly associated with posterior defects (RR 4.750, 95% CI: 1.871–12.059) and anterior midline defects (RR 1.645, 95% CI: 0.654–4.139). Recurrent urinary infections were associated with abdominal colposuspension (RR 4.485, 95% CI: 1.12–18.03). Dyspareunia occurred more frequently after vaginal (RR 3.971, 95% CI: 0.78–20.14) and abdominal hysterectomy (RR 1.620, 95% CI: 0.32–8.15). Vaginal hysterectomy was linked to fecal incontinence (RR 5.559, 95% CI: 1.17–26.30), MUI (RR 2.156, 95% CI: 1.09–4.23), and UUI (RR 4.226, 95% CI: 1.82–6.85). Conclusions: The factors identified as influencing (PFD) offer a solid foundation for evidence-based patient counseling within our population. Our large dataset confirmed key risk factors, notably childbirth and advancing age. However, the influence of BMI on symptoms and anatomical defects appears to be less significant than previously assumed. Subtotal hysterectomy was not associated with new PFD in our cohort and may represent a viable option when hysterectomy is indicated, though further studies are needed to confirm this potential advantage. Full article

Tin is an indispensable metal for contemporary society owing to its extensive application. China is a major tin manufacturer and consumer worldwide. Nonetheless, the crucial characteristics of its tin metabolism remain limited. Therefore, a dynamic material flow analysis (MFA) from 2001 to 2022 was performed in this study to trace China’s tin flows and stocks. Findings show that China became a net tin exporter from a life cycle perspective, and annual tin consumption embodied in various final products varied between 49.3 kilo tons (Kt) in 2001 and 161.5 Kt in 2022, with home appliances and electronics being the dominant consumption sectors. A total of 913.3 Kt of tin became in-use stocks. In addition, the imported tin embodied in various final products varied between 13.9 Kt in 2001 and 21.6 Kt in 2022, with machinery being the dominant consumption sector. The exported tin embodied in various final products varied between 12.0 Kt in 2001 and 76.3 Kt in 2022, with machinery being the dominant consumption sector. Finally, this study proposes some suggestions, in view of the Chinese reality, like enhancing tin recycling, promoting tin geological prospecting, optimizing the structure of the tin trade, and promoting regional cooperation, to improve the supply security of tin resources. Full article

Low-load resistance training combined with vascular occlusion or hypoxia can increase muscle cross-sectional area (CSA), but the effect of such training on hormonal response and cardiovascular response is less clear. Thirty female netball athletes took part in a 5-week training of knee muscles in which low-load resistance exercise (20% 1-RM) was combined with either an occlusion pressure (KT, n = 10), hypoxic air (HT, n = 10), or no additional stimulus (CT, n = 10). Growth hormones (GHs), cardiovascular parameters, and CSA were measured before and after the training program. Compared to CT, both HT and KT showed a substantial increase in GH release after the first training bout (pre). After 5 weeks of training (post), the release of GH was substantially reduced in all groups. Compared to CT, HT showed a substantial decrease in SP (11.7 ± 11.3%, mean ± 90% CL) over the training period. The reduction in systolic blood pressure (SP) after hypoxic training resulted in a substantial decrease in the rate-pressure product (RPP) by 15.6 ± 9.6%, compared to CT. CSA from HT and KT is likely related to the heightened release of GH found after training. The hypoxic training protocol has a greater cardiovascular benefit than similar resistance training with blood flow restriction. Full article

Precise photovoltaic (PV) performance modeling is essential for optimizing system design, operational monitoring, and reliable power forecasting—yet spectral correction is often overlooked, despite its significant impact on energy yield uncertainty. This study employs the FARMS-NIT model to assess the impact of spectral irradiance on eight PV technologies across 79 European sites, grouped by Köppen–Geiger climate classification. Unlike previous studies limited to clear-sky or single-site analysis, this work integrates satellite-derived spectral data for both all-sky and clear-sky scenarios, enabling hourly, tilt-optimized simulations that reflect real-world operating conditions. Spectral analyses reveal European climates exhibit blue-shifted spectra versus AM1.5 reference, only 2–5% resembling standard conditions. Thin-film technologies demonstrate superior spectral gains under all-sky conditions, though the underlying drivers vary significantly across climatic regions—a distinction that becomes particularly evident in the clear-sky analysis. Crystalline silicon exhibits minimal spectral sensitivity (<1.6% variations), with PERC/PERT providing highest stability. CZTSSe shows latitude-dependent performance with ≤0.7% variation: small gains at high latitudes and losses at low latitudes. Atmospheric parameters were analyzed in detail, revealing that air mass (AM), clearness index (K_t), precipitable water (W), and aerosol optical depth (AOD) play key roles in shaping spectral effects, with different parameters dominating in distinct climate groups. Full article

Potassium is the most abundant macronutrient in plants, participating in essential physiological processes such as turgor maintenance. A reduction in cell turgor is a hallmark of the ripening process associated with fruit softening. The dynamic of K⁺ fluxes in fleshy fruits is largely unknown; however, the reallocation of K⁺ into the apoplast has been proposed as a contributing factor to the decrease in fruit turgor, contributing to fruit softening. High-affinity K⁺ transporters belonging to the KUP/HT/HAK transporter family have been implicated in this process in some fruits. In this study, a comprehensive genome-wide analysis of the KUP/KT/HAK family of high-affinity K⁺ transporters in strawberry (Fragaria × ananassa Duch.) was conducted, identifying 60 putative transporter genes. The chromosomal distribution of the FaKUP gene family and phylogenetic relationship and structure of predicted proteins were thoroughly examined. Transcriptomic profiling revealed the expression of 19 FaKUP genes within the fruit receptacle, with a predominant downregulation observed during ripening, particularly in FaKUP14, 24 and 47. This pattern suggests their functional relevance in early fruit development and turgor maintenance. Mineral composition analyses confirmed that K⁺ is the most abundant macronutrient in strawberry fruits, exhibiting a slight decrease as ripening progressed. Membrane potential (E_m) and diffusion potentials (E_D) at increasing external K⁺ concentrations were measured by electrophysiology in parenchymal cells of green and white fruits. The results obtained suggest a significant diminution in cytosolic K⁺ levels in white compared to green fruits. Furthermore, the slope of change in E_D at increasing external K⁺ concentration indicated a lower K⁺ permeability of the plasma membrane in white fruits, aligning with transcriptomic data. This study provides critical insights into the regulatory mechanisms of K⁺ transport during strawberry ripening and identifies potential targets for genetic modifications aimed at enhancing fruit firmness and shelf life. Full article

Part I of this two-part documentation of the ECMWF ensemble (ECEPS) new tropical cyclone track and intensity forecasting challenges during the 2024 western North Pacific season described four typhoons that started well to the south of an unfavorable external environment north of 20° N. In this Part II, five other 2024 season typhoons that formed and intensified near and north of 20° N are documented. One change is that the Cooperative Institute for Meteorological Satellite Studies ADT + AIDT intensities derived from the Himawari-9 satellite were utilized for initialization and validation of the ECEPS intensity forecasts. Our first objective of providing earlier track and intensity forecast guidance than the Joint Typhoon Warning Center (JTWC) five-day forecasts was achieved for all five typhoons, although the track forecast spread was large for the early forecasts. For Marie (06 W) and Ampil (08 W) that formed near 25° N, 140° E in the middle of the unfavorable external environment, the ECEPS intensity forecasts accurately predicted the ADT + AIDT intensities with the exception that the rapid intensification of Ampil over the Kuroshio ocean current was underpredicted. Shanshan (11 W) was a challenging forecast as it intensified to a typhoon while being quasi-stationary near 17° N, 142° E before turning to the north to cross 20° N into the unfavorable external environment. While the ECEPS provided accurate guidance as to the timing and the longitude of the 20° N crossing, the later recurvature near Japan timing was a day early and 4 degrees longitude to the east. The ECEPS provided early, accurate track forecasts of Jebi’s (19 W) threat to mainland Japan. However, the ECEPS was predicting extratropical transition with V_max ~35 kt when the JTWC was interpreting Jebi’s remnants as a tropical cyclone. The ECEPS predicted well the unusual southward track of Krathon (20 W) out of the unfavorable environment to intensify while quasi-stationary near 18.5° N, 125.6° E. However, the rapid intensification as Krathon moved westward along 20° N was underpredicted. Full article

2,3,7,8-Tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD) exposure has long been associated with reproductive dysfunction in males and females even at miniscule levels, which can persist across generations. Given the continued industrial use and detection of other aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) agonists in the general population and the demonstrated heritable phenotypes of TCDD exposure, further work is justified to elucidate reproductive pathologies and minimize exposure risk. In females, multi- and transgenerational subfertility has been demonstrated in a zebrafish (Danio rerio) model exposed to 50 pg/mL TCDD once at 3 and 7 weeks post fertilization (wpf). We further characterize the histopathologic, hormonal and transcriptomic outcomes of the mature female zebrafish ovary following early-life TCDD exposure. Exposure was associated with significantly increased ovarian atresia in the F0 and F1, but not F2 generation. Other oocyte staging and vitellogenesis were unaffected in all generations. Exposed F0 females showed increased levels of whole-body triiodothyronine (T3) and 17β-estradiol (E2) levels, but not vitellogenin (Vtg), 11-ketotestosterone (11-KT), cortisol, thyroxine (T4), or testosterone (T). Ovarian transcriptomics were most dysregulated in the F2. Both F0 and F2, but not F1, showed changes in epigenetic-related gene expression. Rho signaling was the top pathway for both F0 and F2. Full article

Background: The consequences of injuries resulting from accidents are among the most common health disorders in children. A scar forms at the site of the injury. In the treatment of scars, not all methods used in adults can be used in children. The authors attempted to assess the effectiveness of using KT kinesiology taping on scars in children. The aim of the work is to assess the effect of KT on the treatment of keloid, hypertrophic scars, and postoperative adhesions in children. Methods: The study included 30 patients aged 4 to 10 years. The subjects were divided into three groups: group G1-9 patients with keloid scars, group G2-14 with hypertrophic scars, group G3-7 with postoperative adhesions. The patients underwent kinesiology taping for 8 weeks. The analyzed parameters were determined using the VSS scale and ultrasonography. Results: The analysis of the VSS scale results in relation to the type of scars showed a significant (p < 0.001) downward trend in the measured parameters for keloid and hypertrophic scars. Analysis of ultrasound results in relation to the type of scars showed a significant (p < 0.001) downward trend in the measured parameters, comparing parameters I and II for all types of scars. Conclusions: Kinesiology taping significantly changes the following scar parameters: deformability, pigmentation, and perfusion in the case of keloid and hypertrophic scars. Full article

The barotropic sea level difference (SLD) across the Korea/Tsushima Strait (KTS) is considered an index of the volume transport into the East/Japan Sea. This study investigates the interannual variability of the barotropic SLD (the KTS inflow) from 1985 to 2017 and its relationship to upper-ocean (<300 m) current variability in the western North Pacific. An increase in the KTS inflow is associated with a weakening of the Kuroshio current through the Tokara Strait and upper-ocean cooling in the North Pacific Subtropical Gyre, characteristic of a La Niña-like state. Diagnostic analysis reveals that the KTS inflow variability is linked to at least two statistically distinct and concurrent modes of oceanic variability. The first mode is tied to the El Niño–Southern Oscillation through large-scale changes in the Kuroshio system. The second mode, which is linearly uncorrelated with the first, is associated with regional eddy kinetic energy variability in the western North Pacific. The identification of these parallel pathways suggests a complex regulatory system for the KTS inflow. This study provides a new framework for understanding the multi-faceted connection between the KTS and upstream oceanic processes, with implications for the predictability of the ocean environmental conditions in the East/Japan Sea. Full article

Background: Klippel–Trenaunay syndrome (KTS) is a congenital vascular malformation syndrome characterized by low-flow vascular anomalies, including venous malformation (VM) and lymphatic involvement. These anomalies may lead to limb asymmetry due to soft tissue and/or bone overgrowth. Compression therapy using elastic garments is considered a conservative and minimally invasive first-line treatment option for KTS. However, the benefits of compression therapy for low-flow vascular malformations, particularly limb VMs, have not been sufficiently evaluated. This prospective, multi-center study assessed the efficacy and safety of compression therapy for KTS with VM. Methods: After measuring the affected limb, a custom-made elastic garment providing 30 mmHg of compression was manufactured (THUASNE, France). A total of 20 patients (7 male, 13 female; mean age: 10.9 years) underwent compression therapy for 26 weeks at four nationwide institutions in Japan. The primary outcome was the change in lower limb circumference. Secondary outcomes included pain, modified Rankin Scale (mRS) score, body water content, vital signs, changes in garment elasticity, and adverse events. Results: All 20 patients completed the study. At the study endpoint, the circumference ratio of the affected to unaffected limbs was significantly reduced at the superior end of the tibial tuberosity (p = 0.02) and the thinnest part of the ankle (p < 0.001). The elastic force of the garment declined by approximately 50% over 26 weeks. No serious adverse events related to the intervention were reported. Conclusions: Compression therapy using a custom-made elastic garment appears to be a safe and effective approach for managing limb overgrowth in patients with KTS and VM. To maintain the therapeutic effect, garment replacement is recommended at least every six months. Full article