Search Results (64)

Expressive imitation in the performing arts is typically trained through animal behavior imitation, aiming not only to reproduce action trajectories but also to recreate rhythm, style and emotional states. However, evaluation of such animal imitation behaviors relies heavily on teachers’ subjective judgments, lacking structured criteria, exhibiting low inter-rater consistency and being difficult to quantify. To enhance the objectivity and interpretability of the scoring process, this study develops a machine learning and structured pose data-based auxiliary evaluation framework for imitation quality. The proposed framework innovatively constructs three types of feature sets, namely baseline, ablation, and enhanced, and integrates recursive feature elimination with feature importance ranking to identify a stable and interpretable set of core structural features. This enables the training of machine learning models with strong capabilities in structured modeling and sensitivity to informative features. The analysis of the modeling results indicates that temporal–rhythm features play a significant role in score prediction and that only a small number of key feature values are required to model teachers’ ratings with high precision. The proposed framework not only lays a methodological foundation for standardized and AI-assisted evaluation in performing arts education but also expands the application boundaries of computer vision and machine learning in this field. Full article

Managing relinquished/stray dogs is a significant socio-economic and ethical challenge necessitating structured policies to ensure animal welfare and integration into society. Critical to successful rehoming is careful assessment of a dog’s temperament/behavior and appropriate matching of a dog to an owner. Shelter dogs’ involvement in canine-assisted interventions (CAIs) provides a potential avenue for rehoming through appropriate dog educational programs. CAIs consist of structured interactions between dog and clients targeted at specific groups with physical/psychological/emotional impairments in various settings. However, there is a lack of standardized protocols for assessing shelter dogs’ suitability for CAI, raising ethical concerns regarding selection/training practices. This study explores the ethical dimensions of rehoming shelter dogs for CAI, employing a philosophical framework considering the responsibilities of humans/veterinarians toward companion animals and how societal perceptions of human–animal relationships impact decision-making in this context. An ethical matrix is applied to evaluate the implications of rehoming decisions on canine and human interests. Our findings highlight the need for a balanced, responsible approach that respects the individuality of dogs while promoting their potential roles in human society. Ethical guidelines for the selection and training of shelter dogs for CAI could enhance their welfare, improve adoption rates, and reinforce the value of the human–animal bond. Full article

The livestock sector is crucial for global food security and economic development, particularly in developing nations, as it supports the livelihoods of approximately 1.3 billion people. However, with the global population expected to reach 9.2 billion by 2050, the sector must address increasing demand for livestock products while ensuring environmental sustainability. This study used the available literature to evaluate the economic viability of sustainable pasture and rangeland management practices to enhance livestock production. The key findings demonstrate that strategies such as rotational grazing and nitrogen fertilization can decrease winter feed costs by up to 40% while simultaneously improving pasture productivity and animal weight gains. Initial investments in these improved forage practices offer high internal rates of return, indicating their profitability. To guide sustainable pasture production and rangeland management, we propose a conceptual framework that balances cultivated pastures and natural rangelands. This framework assesses critical factors, including input costs, expected outputs (enhanced biodiversity and livestock production), and interventions to mitigate land degradation. For successful adoption of these practices, targeted policies are essential. Governments should develop financial support mechanisms for smallholder farmers, improve transportation infrastructure for efficient feed logistics, and provide technical assistance to educate producers on sustainable practices. Engaging stakeholders to align policies with local needs is also vital. By implementing these strategic interventions, the resilience of livestock systems can be strengthened, contributing to long-term sustainability and supporting food security and rural community well-being. Full article

Mobile technology, especially mobile learning, has long been an emerging and thriving field, and remains a main theme in mobile learning applications and systems. The extensive utilization of mobile learning has prompted the invention of many mobile applications. As a result of rapid advances in application technologies, various learning applications can combine different media or multi-modalities, such as video, audio, images, animated graphics, and text, to create multimedia learning resources that engage learners. However, the most favorable modalities in different learning applications that assist performance are worth exploring. This study employed mixed methods to investigate the current multi-modality situation in learning application utilization among 300 university students in China, where a rapid educational technology revolution is occurring. The findings revealed that the verbal modality (M = 3.99, S*D = 0.79) and the writing modality (M = 3.99, S*D = 0.75) in the learning applications were less enjoyable and less effective at enhancing learning performance. In exam-based or function-based apps, all five modalities in this research were considered important, especially the visual and aural modes. The results of this study also revealed that a majority of university learners were satisfied with the multi-modalities in different types of applications, except for game-based apps, that assist their learning performance (56.7%, M = 3.87, S*D = 0.79), which contrasts with the results of several related studies. Overall, college users perceived that multi-modalities were effective in helping them to complete tasks, and all modalities in current applications satisfied most of the users’ needs to assist their learning performance. In the end, the findings indicated a positive and strong linear relationship [r = 0.766, p < 0.05] between multi-modalities and assisted learning performance with the help of more capable (knowledgeable) others with the use of mobile applications. Full article

Introduction: Gene therapy has emerged as a promising frontier in the management of diabetes, offering innovative approaches to address both type 1 and type 2 diabetes. This narrative review examines the advancements in gene therapy applications, focusing on both animal and human studies, and includes a total of 11 studies in adherence to PRISMA guidelines. These studies utilize various viral vectors, such as adeno-associated virus (AAV) and lentivirus, to deliver genes that regulate insulin production and enhance angiogenesis. This review aims to synthesize recent advancements in gene therapy for both type 1 and type 2 diabetes and its complications, and to explore the evolving role of pharmacists in this emerging field. Methods: A comprehensive search was conducted to identify relevant studies on gene therapy for diabetes. Databases such as PubMed, the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and Google Scholar were queried using keywords such as “Diabetes”, “gene therapy”, “Type 1 diabetes”, and “Type 2 diabetes”. Both animal and human studies were included to provide a broad perspective on the advancements in this field. Results: Animal model studies have shown promising results, including sustained insulin production, improved glucose homeostasis, and enhanced wound healing. Human studies, though fewer in number, have reported significant advancements. Patients with diabetic neuropathy treated with plasmid VEGF and recombinant adeno-associated virus (rAAV) showed improvements in neuropathic symptoms and glycemic control. Other studies involving intramuscular injections of VM202 and bicistronic VEGF165/HGF plasmid have reported pain reduction, improved healing of ischemic lesions, and increased angiogenesis. Conclusions: Despite these encouraging results, limitations such as small sample sizes, short follow-up periods, and the necessity for more extensive clinical trials persist. Diabetes is a metabolic syndrome that requires the collaboration of a multidisciplinary team to assist in several aspects of implementing successful gene therapy. Several healthcare providers and policy makers may play a crucial role in patient education, counseling, and the management of gene therapy treatments. Full article

Background/Objectives: Academic libraries offer a range of activities and initiatives for their students and community users. However, wellbeing, as a concept in academic libraries, is not very well defined and is poorly understood. The objective of this scoping review was to examine the role of academic libraries in student and community wellbeing, identify the various kinds of activities and initiatives that they carry out to address their wellbeing, and uncover gaps that might require further research. Methods: An extensive search was conducted in the Library Information Sciences Association (LISA), Education Resources Information Centre (ERIC), Medline (OVID), Scopus, and Web of Science (WOS) databases. Grey literature was searched on a selection of library websites and digital repositories. Data were extracted from studies that met the inclusion criteria for the scoping review. Themes were identified by the authors and reported as a narrative summary. Results: Of the 5437 records identified, a total of 40 documents were included in this scoping review. The authors identified 11 different kinds of activities and initiatives carried out in academic libraries that promote student and community wellbeing, i.e., (1) animal-assisted activities; (2) facilitating dialogues about belonging and identity; (3) fun recreational activities; (4) study support; (5) physical activity promotion; (6) meditation, yoga, and mindfulness; (7) book clubs; (8) art exhibitions; (9) technology and digital support; (10) free food and tea; and (11) health awareness. These activities were found to promote the physical, emotional, and social wellbeing of student and community users. Conclusions: This review highlights the need for further systematic research on the long-term effects of wellbeing initiatives and activities on both student and community users, and how they might impact aspects of wellbeing for specific population groups such as senior citizens and LGBTQIA members. This scoping review demonstrates the potential of academic libraries in promoting health and wellbeing for their users. Full article

This study investigates integrating sustainability and urban mining concepts into early childhood education through AI-assisted storytelling and visual aids to foster environmental awareness. Using ChatGPT-generated narratives and AI-drawn visuals, interactive stories explore complex sustainability themes like resource conservation and waste management. A quasi-experimental design with 60 preschoolers divided into experimental and control groups compared structured and unstructured storytelling. Structured stories followed teacher-designed frameworks, including thematic and narrative elements such as settings, character development, and resolutions. Observations showed the structured group demonstrated greater comprehension, engagement, and narrative ability, indicating enhanced cognitive and communication skills. The digital system interface featured animations and images for engagement, while tutorial-driven navigation allowed young learners to interact freely with sustainability-focused story options. The findings highlighted structured storytelling’s ability to improve language and narrative skills, alongside fostering digital and environmental literacy. Limitations include a small sample size and a focus on specific themes, restricting generalizability. Despite this, this study adds value by showcasing how AI tools combined with structured frameworks can effectively teach sustainability while reducing the reliance on paper, promoting sustainable educational practices. Overall, this research underscores the potential of AI storytelling in shaping young learners’ understanding of environmental issues, advocating for the thoughtful integration of technology to inspire deeper learning. Full article

Background and Objectives: Animal-assisted therapies have been utilized in various profiles to improve people’s quality of life. This systematic review aims to assess the impact of dog-assisted therapies (DAT) on children and adolescents with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). The benefits provided, the feasibility of implementation, and potential limitations are analysed. Methods: An exhaustive search was carried out in the following databases: Web of Science (WoS), Scopus, ERIC, PubMed, PubPsych, CINAHL, PsycInfo and Dialnet. The procedure was preregistered on PROSPERO. Results: This review included 19 scientific articles. Of these, 84% suggest that DAT has a positive impact on communication and social interaction during the development of children and adolescents diagnosed with ASD. The dog is often perceived as a communication facilitator that serves as a reinforcer, capturing the individual’s attention. Emotional benefits have also been reported, including reducing stereotyped and self-harming behaviours. Additionally, an increase in smiling frequency and self-esteem levels was observed. Conclusions: These findings highlight the potential of DAT as a component of socio-educational intervention for children and adolescents diagnosed with ASD. However, further research is necessary due to the limited sample sizes in the studies reviewed. Full article

University students experience poorer mental health outcomes when compared to the general population. Poor mental health has been associated with reduced wellbeing and low academic performance, resulting in higher rates of withdrawal. Animal-assisted education is an intervention found to result in a reduction in anxiety and an increased learning engagement among primary and secondary students. However, minimal research has been conducted regarding the inclusion of therapy dogs in the learning environments of students in tertiary education. This study explored the influence of animal-assisted education on the experience of university students. A total of 56 university students engaged with animal-assisted education over a 13-week period and completed an online survey comprised of open- and closed-response questions. The findings showed that all perceived benefits of the therapy dog, including improved mood and reduction of anxiety, increased motivation and engagement in learning activities, as well as an improved social engagement with peers and the educator. Preliminary findings demonstrated that the inclusion of animal-assisted education into the teaching of university students may assist in supporting their mental health and overall learning experience. Research is needed to explore the most effective ways to incorporate animal-assisted education into university settings for both students and therapy dogs. Full article

Speech-driven lip synchronization is a crucial technology for generating realistic facial animations, with broad application prospects in virtual reality, education, training, and other fields. However, existing methods still face challenges in generating high-fidelity facial animations, particularly in addressing lip jitter and facial motion instability issues in continuous frame sequences. This study presents VividWav2Lip, an improved speech-driven lip synchronization model. Our model incorporates three key innovations: a cross-attention mechanism for enhanced audio-visual feature fusion, an optimized network structure with Squeeze-and-Excitation (SE) residual blocks, and the integration of the CodeFormer facial restoration network for post-processing. Extensive experiments were conducted on a diverse dataset comprising multiple languages and facial types. Quantitative evaluations demonstrate that VividWav2Lip outperforms the baseline Wav2Lip model by 5% in lip sync accuracy and image generation quality, with even more significant improvements over other mainstream methods. In subjective assessments, 85% of participants perceived VividWav2Lip-generated animations as more realistic compared to those produced by existing techniques. Additional experiments reveal our model’s robust cross-lingual performance, maintaining consistent quality even for languages not included in the training set. This study not only advances the theoretical foundations of audio-driven lip synchronization but also offers a practical solution for high-fidelity, multilingual dynamic face generation, with potential applications spanning virtual assistants, video dubbing, and personalized content creation. Full article

The Calgary–Cambridge Guide is a widely recognised framework for teaching communication skills to healthcare professionals that has become a cornerstone of communication training programs in medicine and other healthcare fields. In the context of veterinary medicine, its integration into communication training programs has become an asset improving communication, education, interaction, and quality of service, enhancing the veterinary–client–patient relationship (VCPR). In veterinary medicine, however, a more challenging consultation dynamic involves the veterinarian, the owner, and the animal. The addition of a veterinary assistant that acts as an interpreter or translator is common in Hong Kong where the native language (Cantonese) coexists with English when consultations are led by non-native language speakers. This addition converts this commonly dyadic model into a triadic communication model. The addition of an assistant interpreter influences the way consultations are conducted, how information is conveyed, and how interpersonal cues and empathy are delivered. In this report we depict challenges applying the Calgary–Cambridge Guide in multicultural and multilingual veterinary medical centres in Hong Kong and highlight the role of veterinary supporting staff in these scenarios, specifically veterinary assistant interpreters. Full article

Canicross is a sport that consists of running while being pulled by a dog in a natural environment. Due to the benefits to health and well-being that it brings to the people and dogs that practise it, this sport could be implemented as an animal-assisted intervention (AAI) in the educational field. Against this background, the present work describes a pilot experience carried out in an educational centre in the Basque Country for the implementation of canicross as an extracurricular sports activity. The main objective is to describe the educational potential of canicross as an extracurricular activity that fosters students’ values of respect for animals and physical activity (PA) in natural environments. The results of this innovative experience provide the first evidence of the valuable role of animal activities in this educational context, where current academic research is practically non-existent. In conclusion, we highlight the novelty of the proposal and the motivating effect that the dogs in this case had among the students in encouraging them to practise PA and adhere to values of respect and animal welfare. Full article

In objective behavioral rating (BR), dogs are rated for behavior based on the observations made during a behavioral test. However, behavioral definitions can differ between raters, and the definitions proposed by artificial intelligence (AI) can help standardize the applied measures. The aim of this study was to propose a new approach for assessing dogs’ suitability for animal-assisted education (AAE) with the use of the BR method and the definitions of dog behaviors proposed by AI. The analysis relied on video footage of 25 dogs that participated in tests assessing the animals’ suitability for AAE. The dogs were rated by five independent observers. Inter-rater reliability was satisfactory in 7 out of 9 subtests (0.715–0.856) and low in the remaining 2 subtests (0.667 in Subtest 2 and 0.617 in Subtest 5). The results indicate that the BR method based on AI definitions produced satisfactory inter-rater reliability in a test evaluating dog behavior. A comparison of subtest scores in the BR method and the subjective rating method did not reveal significant differences. Thus, it can be concluded that the proposed approach gives promising outcomes and can be used to develop new tests for assessing dogs’ suitability for AAE and, perhaps, other types of work. Full article

Human-dog interaction is the working tool through which the therapeutic, educational and recreational goals of dog-assisted interventions (DAIs) are achieved. A better understanding of the characteristics of this interaction could improve the effectiveness of DAIs. This scoping review addresses the question: how has the human-dog connection been measured in the context of DAIs? After searching the Web of Science and Scopus platforms, only peer-reviewed, primary research studies reporting measures of therapy dog-human interaction, relationship and bond were included. A total of 70 included articles provided information on what was measured (interaction, relationship or bond) and how, as well as the general context (DAIs or experimental situations with therapy dogs). While the majority of the articles identified use behavioural analysis methods to analyse the interaction between the participant/recipient and the therapy dog during DAIs, it was possible to identify some more structured tools that assess the participant/recipient’s interaction, relationship or bond with the therapy dog, as well as tools that consider the animal’s perspective or focus on the dog-handler dyad, indicating growing areas of research. The tools and methods identified can be used by both practitioners and researchers to further explore aspects of human-dog interaction in the field of DAIs. Full article

Animal-assisted pedagogy is well known in classroom practice, but scientific evidence of its impact on teaching and learning conditions is still lacking. At the same time, the biggest challenge in education systems worldwide is the social inclusion of students. In a pre–post design, 30 heterogeneous students (16 f/14 m) from four different school classes (grades 5–8) of two secondary schools and one grammar school were interviewed (in a problem-centered interview) about their social inclusion and their social climate in class before and after being taught selected subjects with a school dog for one school term. At the second measurement point, participants were also asked about their perception of animal-assisted pedagogy. The qualitative data analysis (Kuckartz) showed that the presence of a dog leads to an improved social climate, more social integration and to a change in social roles; therefore, we discussed our findings in the context of role theory (Krappmann). In addition, we found that the mutual perception of the other students and the teacher changes to a more positive and friendlier image. Through animal-assisted pedagogy, a new social role is added to the classroom, where caring and bonding are prioritized. Social interaction and norms are influenced and stereotypical and individual roles can be changed. Therefore, animal-assisted pedagogy can be key to promoting social inclusion in the school environment. Full article