Science Research Articles

Biomimetic Hydrogels - Tools for Regenerative Medicine, Oncology, and Understanding Medical Gas Plasma Therapy.

Biomimetic hydrogels enable biochemical, cell biology, and tissue-like studies in the third dimension. Smart hydrogels are also frequently used in tissue engineering and as drug carriers for intra- or extracutaneous regenerative medicine. They have also been studied in bio-sensor development, 3D cell culture, and organoid growth optimization. Yet, many hydrogel types, adjuvant components, and cross-linking methods have emerged over decades, diversifying and complexifying such studies. Here, an evaluative overview is provided, mapping potential applications to the corresponding hydrogel tuning. Strikingly, hydrogels are ideal for studying locoregional therapy modalities, such as cold medical gas plasma technology. These partially ionized gases produce various reactive oxygen species (ROS) types along with other physico-chemical components such as ions and electric fields, and the spatio-temporal effects of these components delivered to diseased tissues remain largely elusive to date. Hence, this work outlines the promising applications of hydrogels in biomedical research in general and cold plasma science in particular and underlines the great potential of these smart scaffolds for current and future research and therapy.

Enhanced Learning Experiences Using Gamification and AI in Music Activities

<p dir="ltr"><span>This study introduces “Seeing Sound, Hearing Color," a novel educational game aimed at exploring the complex interplay between sound and color using an interdisciplinary and AI-enhanced pedagogical framework. The game, conducted from September 2023 to January 2024, was developed in conjunction with the exhibition of Merlin’s paintings, showcased in February 2024 in Novo Mesto, Slovenia. In this game, 14 students were engaged from the School Center Novo Mesto, SGLVŠ, as part of their music expression curriculum. The activities incorporated elements of science, art, and artificial intelligence to enable students to study cross-modal perception. Students examined colours from Merlin's paintings and converted these visual stimuli into 32 musical excerpts, promoting a profound synthesis of artistic interpretation and scientific concepts. This study underscored the need of innovative learning environments by fostering inspiration, inventiveness, and self-expression. The study emphasises the educational significance of multisensory and interdisciplinary methods, illustrating how artificial intelligence may improve student engagement and enrich comprehension in both artistic and scientific domains.</span></p><div><span><br /></span></div>

Neuropsychological review of records in forensic cases: An AACN best practices paper with international perspectives.

Objective: The purpose of this American Academy of Clinical Neuropsychology (AACN) best practices paper is to provide the neuropsychological community with the fundamentals of a competent forensic review of records. Method: Narrative review addressing fundamental factors related to review of records. Examples highlighted information necessary for a forensic determination of traumatic brain injury (TBI), and the data from records that can be used to address questions regarding validity of presentation. International and intra-jurisdictional perspectives within the US were used to illustrate the necessity of adhering the review to the rules. Results: Factors identified involve ethical responsibilities, completeness in obtaining and reviewing relevant records, evaluation of credibility of the records, considerations regarding examinee self-reporting, grounding of opinions within peer-reviewed science, determination of causation in the context of litigation, and avoiding bias in reporting, as well as consideration of cultural and language factors. Different jurisdictional rules require close attention. Conclusions: Neuropsychologists need to be aware of the need for a competent review of records to obtain basic facts, maintain objectivity, and provide a context for conclusions in a neuropsychological examination report. In litigation cases, opinions based solely on review of records may be challenged for reasons that might include not having personally evaluated the plaintiff, and whether opinions meet Daubert criteria pertaining to sufficient scientific bases and facts. A thorough review in the context of examination helps deal with litigant/claimant subjectivity and malleability of self-report, and it can provide critical reasoning about other factors relevant to causation.

The Effect of Scaffolding Strategies on Learning Outcomes in Science Learning: A Systematic Literature Review

Science learning must be designed so that students can understand natural phenomena that are constantly changing. This study aims to explore scaffolding strategies related to research trends, influence on learning outcomes, appropriate learning models, research designs used, and profiles of the use of scaffolding in science learning at various levels of education. The research is a systematic literature review (SLR) to collect, analyze, and compile findings on scaffolding strategies in science learning. The literature review results show that scaffolding strategies are effective in helping students understand scientific concepts better. Providing structured scaffolding to students effectively improves students’ learning outcomes. The literature review results show that in the 2014-2024 time span, research on the application of scaffolding mostly uses quantitative methods with a non-equivalent control group design. The learning model that is widely used with scaffolding is Problem-Based Learning (PBL). Scaffolding positively impacts students' cognitive and affective learning outcomes, concept understanding, science process skills, argumentation skills, critical thinking skills, higher-order thinking skills (HOTS), learning independence, learning motivation, scientific literacy, problem-solving skills, and misconceptions. The scaffolding strategies can improve science learning effectively.

The Quality of Science Education: Viewpoints of Secondary School Science Teachers

In today’s world, the success of a society is increasingly tied to its ability to cultivate a scientifically literate population. Yet, many nations struggle to provide a solid foundation in science education, especially in under-privileged regions. Science education plays a crucial role in shaping the future of societies by fostering critical thinking, innovation, and scientific literacy among students (DepEd, 2020). This qualitative research study explores the perceptions of secondary school science teachers regarding the current state of science education in the Philippines, specifically focusing on the province of Bukidnon. The primary objectives of the study are to understand teachers’ viewpoints on science education, identify significant barriers that hinder quality instruction, and propose actionable solutions to these challenges. The thematic analysis of the data reveals a notable increase in student interest and engagement, driven by factors such as rising enrollment in STEM programs and active participation in science fairs. Despite these positive trends, ongoing concerns about teacher quality, inadequate resources, and outdated curricula continue to impede effective science instruction in the classroom. Key barriers identified include insufficient teacher preparation, foundational gaps in student comprehension, and constraints on resources, such as limited access to laboratory activities and essential equipment. The findings emphasize the pressing need for program restructuring, the early introduction of science concepts, and the integration of prerequisite courses designed to enhance the overall effectiveness of science education programs. These recommendations aim to better equip future science educators and foster a more conducive learning environment. Ultimately, this research contributes valuable insights to ongoing efforts aimed at improving science education in the Philippines, underscoring the necessity of addressing systemic issues to promote a more effective, equitable, and enriching educational experience for all students.

The Relevance of the Kuttab Learning Model in Building a Generation of Noble Character

This study aims to explore the effectiveness of the Kuttab-based learning model in shaping students' character and academic performance, as well as identify challenges and opportunities for its implementation in modern education. The method used is a literature review by collecting data from books, articles, and other relevant sources. The collected data were grouped into key themes, such as the history of Kuttab, principles of religion-based education, and the challenges and advantages of this model. Analysis was conducted to identify relevant patterns and synthesize information to support the research objectives. The results show that Kuttab education is vital in integrating religious knowledge and science, creating intellectual and spiritual balance. This model effectively shapes a generation that is intelligent and morally upright. Despite challenges like limited infrastructure and globalization, Kuttab holds significant potential for character education. The use of technology and the integration of religious curriculum with general sciences offer opportunities for developing a morally and intellectually excellent generation. Thus, Kuttab-based education can serve as a modern solution emphasizing the balance between moral values and knowledge. Keywords: Kuttab Education, integration of religion and science, character development, educational challenges, technology in education.

Integral and Integrated Principles: Alternative Solutions to Overcome the Dichotomy of Islamic Education in Indonesia

Education is currently experiencing a decline due to the frequent imbalance between general education and religious education, especially Islamic religion, resulting in the emergence of educational dichotomy. This research was made with the aim of examining and understanding the dichotomy problems that occur in Indonesia. The type of research used is qualitative using literature review, while the method used is the documentation method. So it can be explained that the dichotomy of education is a problem that is considered quite complicated because the dichotomy of education that is now happening in Indonesia has spread to various educational sectors. The historical roots of this dichotomy began with the entry of Dutch colonizers into Indonesia and changed the existing education system. On the basis of these problems, a solution is needed to overcome the dichotomy of education. The integral and integrated principle is the right solution in overcoming this problem, which with this principle can provide harmony between religious and general sciences.

Investigating a Domain Adaptation Approach for Integrating Different Measurement Instruments in a Longitudinal Clinical Registry.

In a longitudinal clinical registry, different measurement instruments might have been used for assessing individuals at different time points. To combine them, we investigate deep learning techniques for obtaining a joint latent representation, to which the items of different measurement instruments are mapped. This corresponds to domain adaptation, an established concept in computer science for image data. Using the proposed approach as an example, we evaluate the potential of domain adaptation in a longitudinal cohort setting with a rather small number of time points, motivated by an application with different motor function measurement instruments in a registry of spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) patients. There, we model trajectories in the latent representation by ordinary differential equations(ODEs), where person-specific ODE parameters are inferred from baseline characteristics. The goodness of fit and complexity of the ODE solutions then allow to judge the measurement instrument mappings. We subsequently explore how alignment can be improved by incorporating corresponding penalty terms into model fitting. To systematically investigate the effect of differences between measurement instruments, we consider several scenarios based on modified SMA data, including scenarios where a mapping should be feasible in principle and scenarios where no perfect mapping is available. While misalignment increases in more complex scenarios, some structure is still recovered, even if the availability of measurement instruments depends on patient state. A reasonable mapping is feasible also in the more complex real SMA data set. These results indicate that domain adaptation might be more generally useful in statistical modeling for longitudinal registrydata.

The state of implementation science in major depressive disorder: A narrative review.

Major depressive disorder (MDD) is one of the most prevalent and disabling mental disorders with high recurrence rate. There is often a gap between scientific evidence related to the effective and cost-effective treatment of depression and clinical practice. Implementation science is a field of inquiry that aims to advance the process of applying evidence-based interventions to real-world problems. Implementation research consists of two broad phases. The first phase seeks to identify the gaps that exist between evidence and practice and their impact on outcomes. The second phase, building on the first, evaluates the effectiveness of implementation strategies by examining various implementation indicators to support the adoption and scale up of interventions. Although implementation research can facilitate the uptake and adoption of evidence-based interventions, it is underused in depression research. In this narrative review, the authors will introduce the definition of implementation science and the state of implementation science in MDD in order to support more widespread use of implementation science for scaling up evidence-based interventions.

INSIGHT: Combining Fixation Visualisations and Residual Neural Networks for Dyslexia Classification From Eye-Tracking Data.

Current diagnostic methods for dyslexia primarily rely on traditional paper-and-pencil tasks. Advanced technological approaches, including eye-tracking and artificial intelligence (AI), offer enhanced diagnostic capabilities. In this paper, we bridge the gap between scientific and diagnostic concepts by proposing a novel dyslexia detection method, called INSIGHT, which combines a visualisation phase and a neural network-based classification phase. The first phase involves transforming eye-tracking fixation data into 2D visualisations called Fix-images, which clearly depict reading difficulties. The second phase utilises the ResNet18 convolutional neural network for classifying these images. The INSIGHT method was tested on 35 child participants (13 dyslexic and 22 control readers) using three text-reading tasks, achieving a highest accuracy of 86.65%. Additionally, we cross-tested the method on an independent dataset of Danish readers, confirming the robustness and generalizability of our approach with a notable accuracy of 86.11%. This innovative approach not only provides detailed insight into eye movement patterns when reading but also offers a robust framework for the early and accurate diagnosis of dyslexia, supporting the potential for more personalised and effective interventions.

Students Perceptions, Satisfactions and Challenges on Problem-Based Learning (PBL): A Survey Study Among Final Year Pharmacy Students

Introduction: Problem-based learning (PBL) is being adopted more frequently in pharmacy education to enhance skills such as problem-solving, and self-directed learning. However, thorough research on pharmacy students’ perceptions and satisfaction towards PBL in Malaysia remains inconclusive. This study aims to explore students’ views, satisfaction, and obstacles regarding PBL in pharmacy education especially to improve critical thinking, interpersonal skills, and problem-solving skills. Method: A cross-sectional study using a validated closed and open-ended questionnaire consisting of 22 statements was distributed among 84 final-year pharmacy students. Results: Eighty-four final-year pharmacy students participated in this study. Findings revealed that the majority agreed with statements on benefits that PBL significantly contributed to their knowledge acquisition (100.0%), stimulated the exploration of basic scientific concepts (98.8%), and enhanced their understanding in selecting both pharmacological and non-pharmacological approaches in disease management (97.6%, 95.2% respectively). The consensus extended to the belief that PBL fostered interactions with peers (91.7%), improved problem-solving skills (95.2%) and enhanced interpersonal skills (95.2%). Students expressed confidence in their instructors’ clarity (92.9%) and clear answers to questions (90.5%). Most felt comfortable participating in discussions (69%), and nearly all students were satisfied with their group members’ cooperation (95.2%). Although, most findings highlight positive aspects of PBL, this study also identified three major challenges in PBL implementation, namely 1) insufficient time for PBL preparation, 2) lack of teamwork, and 3) difficulty in finding adequate reading materials. Conclusion: Overall, these findings highlight positive aspects of the PBL experience among respondents. Future research should consider diverse student populations, conduct longitudinal studies, and explore instructors’ perspectives.

How often do University Students use Artificial Intelligence in Their Studies?

This study deals with the use of Information and Artificial Intelligence technologies with education. The purpose is to investigate students' use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in their studies. The authors have used a survey of 882 Ukrainian university students, graphical and tabular result presentation, t-statistics, and zstatistics with a high significant level of 0.01. The authors have found out that students use AI in their learning process: every day 8.0% – 31.0%, 3-4 times/week 6.0% - 15.0%, 1-2 times/week 17.0% - 20.0%, 1-2 times/month 14.0% - 40.0%, never 20.0% - 29.0%. Research novelty is: confirming two Research hypotheses, new scientific facts about the use of AI technologies in the learning process, and the absence of the need to develop proposals for improving the teaching process using AI technologies because university teachers provide students with a real-world AI-enabled environment that is adequate for student needs in their studies. The results are very important for monitoring the use of AI in higher education. The new data can help to make management decisions to achieve high-quality education. The new research findings contribute to the growing debate on the integration of information technology, computers, and AI technologies in education.

Unpacking mobility cultures: a review of conceptual definitions and empirical approaches

ABSTRACT While “Mobility Culture” is an emerging concept in transport science and policy, it is often defined and applied in different ways. We conducted a systematic literature review focusing on the definitions of the concept and how it has been approached empirically. We found that definitions of Mobility Culture are heterogeneous, often indirect and implicit, or missing entirely. We assigned papers to five definition groups based on similarity: (1) Objective and subjective characteristics, (2) subjective-only characteristics, (3) social groups and communities, (4) normative-sustainable notions of future transportation, and (5) papers lacking definitions. Among empirical papers, we identified three broader approaches: Comparative (e.g. city typologies or pre-and-post relocation studies), single-culture (e.g. place-specific mode choice, local discourses) and intervention studies. We discuss the suitability of these approaches for different research goals and how they relate to the definition groups. Overall, we observe a lack of conceptual clarity in the Mobility Culture discourse, which is also reflected in the frequent mismatch of definitions and empirical operationalisations. We recommend that future Mobility Culture definitions consistently acknowledge the phenomenon’s (i) complexity and multidimensionality, (ii) the relational character among its dimensions and attributes, and (iii) its sensibility for social and geographical differences.

Assessment of Youtube Kids Application on Children's Comprehension and Retention of Scientific Concepts

It can be said that the effects of YouTube Kids as an educational tool on children's comprehension and retention of scientific concepts are evaluated. As digital media continues to be used increasingly for early education, this research explores to what extent content accessibility, design and interactivity impact learning outcomes for children aged 6-10. Pre and post tests were combined with focus group discussions where participants discussed what they understood and remembered in the content they had been exposed to after being curated in scientific material. Findings show that although the content is visually engaging and age appropriate, it promotes initial interest and comprehension, retention is highly dependent on complementary activities and parental mediation. They further show both the promise and constraints of platforms such as YouTube Kids for shaping foundational scientific knowledge. In this paper, we recommend how to optimize digital educational tools for better learning outcomes.

Synthesized Research on Computer Modeling in Science Education: Addressing Pedagogical Challenges and Implementation Barriers

This systematic literature review investigates the role of computer modeling in science education with the objective of synthesizing its effectiveness in enhancing students' understanding of complex scientific concepts and providing actionable recommendations for pedagogical and policy improvements. The study employs a systematic approach to analyze 27 peer-reviewed articles published between 2019 and 2023, sourced from the Scopus database. Through this review, it is evident that computer modeling facilitates the visualization of abstract phenomena, such as molecular changes and planetary movements, which are otherwise challenging to observe in traditional classroom settings. Furthermore, the findings demonstrate that computer simulations positively impact student engagement and motivation, leading to increased interest, participation, and critical thinking skills in science subjects. However, several challenges persist, including teacher skill gaps, insufficient technological infrastructure, and an over-reliance on virtual experiences, which limit the broader implementation of this innovative tool. This review concludes that addressing these barriers is crucial to maximizing the potential of computer modeling in science education. The insights derived from this study serve as valuable guidelines for educators and policymakers to effectively integrate computer modeling into science curricula, thereby advancing both teaching practices and student learning outcomes. This study concludes with actionable policy recommendations, including teacher training, infrastructure development, and curriculum integration, to address pedagogical challenges and technological barriers

Scientific Definitions and Measurements of Second-Growth, Mature, and Old-Growth Forests

Abstract We examined US scientists’ (1) use of second-growth, mature, and old-growth forest in scientific publication titles, (2) definitions of second-growth, mature, and old-growth forest, and (3) sampling methods in second-growth, mature, and old-growth forest. “Second-growth forest” (55 titles) and “mature forest” (40) experienced the most frequent use in the 2010s. “Old-growth forest” (247) had the most use in the 1990s. Definitions of second-growth forest originated from successional theory and were consistent across scientists. Definitions of mature forest lacked consensus. Definitions of old-growth forest increased in complexity as scientists integrated biological, social, and political factors. Soil was the most frequent abiotic factor measured in mature and old-growth forests. In second-growth forests it was dead organic matter. Trees were the most common life form measured in all forests. The results show that researchers would benefit from a clearer differentiation between second-growth and mature forest and a formal definition for mature forest.

Alternate view for investigating data science knowledge gaps: A U.S. perspective

Data science, a dynamic and rapidly growing field with expanding job growth, has wide variations among data science programs and conceptualizations of data scientists’ skills. Consequently, employers face challenges recruiting the right data scientists, due to misalignment between university preparation and industry needs. To explore this further, we present an alternate data science view and use it to investigate knowledge gaps. Text mining of U.S. university syllabi is used to identify knowledge and skills taught by U.S. universities and colleges. These are compared to data science terms and concepts identified in job postings from previous research. We find graduates are better prepared for soft skills, but ill-prepared for technical and analytical skills. The findings are used to discuss how universities and industry can bridge the gaps.

Integration of Science and Islamic Values into Curriculum for Boarding School Students in the Modern Age

This article discusses the synergy between science and Islamic values in the curriculum of Islamic boarding schools in the modern era, focusing on implementing project-based learning approaches at the An-Nur Hidayatullah Islamic Boarding School in Turen, Malang. This study explores how project-based activities such as ecoenzymes manufacturing by An Nur Hidayatullah High School students can be understood and studied scientifically while integrating Islamic values into the learning process. Through this approach, students are invited to combine scientific knowledge related to making ecoenzymes with Islamic principles such as concern for the environment, social responsibility, and wise use of natural resources. This study shows that the application of project-based learning provides a practical understanding of scientific concepts and strengthens the formation of Islamic characters relevant to the challenges of the modern era. Thus, the synergy between science and Islamic values in Islamic boarding school education can create a harmonious relationship in educating the younger generation to become intelligent and noble individuals.

A kriminalisztika piramismodellje és alapelvei

The author outlines a model of the central questions, methodology, and ultimate goal of forensic sciences, a sophisticated, meticulous and diversified empirical science.

The Digital Learning Model to Enhance Students' Understanding and Interest in Learning: A Case Study at Cangkreng II Lenteng State Elementary School, Sumenep

Traditional learning models are often less effective in increasing elementary school students' interest in science and technology. The limitations of interactivity and visualization in traditional models encourage the need for digital-based learning innovations. This study aims to identify the impact of digital learning models on students' interest and learning outcomes in science subjects. The research used a qualitative approach with a case study method. The research subjects consisted of school teachers at Cangkreng II Lenteng Sumenep primary school. Data were collected through in-depth interviews, observation, and documentation, and analyzed using the Miles and Huberman analysis model which includes data condensation, data presentation, and conclusion. The findings indicate that digital learning models have great potential in improving the quality of science learning in primary schools. The use of interactive media, simulations, and engaging visualizations can help students build a better understanding of abstract science concepts. This research contributes to developing digital learning theory by demonstrating the effectiveness of technology-based learning models in improving students' motivation and learning achievement. The implication for learning practice is the importance of integrating digital technology into the science learning process to create a more enjoyable and effective learning environment.