Dynamic Assessment Research Articles

Validation of the Mediated Learning Observation Instrument Among Children With and Without Developmental Language Disorder in Dynamic Assessment.

In this validation study, we examined the factor structure of the mediated learning observation (MLO) used during the teaching phase of dynamic assessment. As an indicator of validity, we evaluated whether the MLO factor structure was consistent across children with and without developmental language disorder (DLD). Two hundred twenty-four children (188 typically developing and 36 DLD) from kindergarten to second grade completed a 30-min individual mediated learning session on narrative production. Performance during the session was rated using the 12-item MLO by clinicians on affect, behavior, arousal, and elaboration. Exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses were conducted to establish the factor structure and reliability of the MLO. Factor analysis of the MLO suggested a stable three-factor model with adequate fit indices across kindergarten and school-age samples, across both typically developing and DLD subgroups with good to excellent reliability. The final 11-item MLO (one item was removed due to low factor loading) comprises three subscales including (a) cognitive factor, (b) learning anticipation, and (c) learning engagement. The MLO is a valid and reliable instrument for assessing language learning skills in children with and without DLD during dynamic assessment. Practical implications and suggestions for future research addressing the utilization of MLO in dynamic assessment are provided.

Moving Trend Analysis Methodology for Hydro-meteorology Time Series Dynamic Assessment

AbstractIn the last 30 years, there are many publications in the literature due to global warming and climate change impacts exhibiting non-stationary behaviors in hydro-meteorology time series records especially in the forms of increasing or decreasing trends. The conventional trend analyzes cover the entire recording time with a single straight-line trend and slope. These methods do not provide information about up and down partial moving trends evolution at shorter durations along the entire record length. This paper proposes a dynamic methodology for identifying such evolutionary finite duration moving trend method (MTM) identifications and interpretations. The purpose of choosing MTM was to investigate the dynamic partial trend evolution over the recording period so that dry (decreasing trend) and wet (increasing trend) segments could be objectively identified and these trends could assist in water resources management in the study area. The moving trend analysis is like the classical moving average methodology with one important digression that instead of arithmetic averages and their horizontal line representations, a series of finite duration successive increasing and decreasing trends are identified over a given hydro-meteorology time series record. In general, partial moving trends of 10-year, 20-year, 30-year and 40-year occur above or below the overall trend and thus provide practical insight into the dynamic trend pattern with important implications. The moving trend methodology is applied to annual records of Danube River discharges, New Jersey state wise temperatures and precipitation time series from the City of Istanbul.

An Integrating Framework for Biomass and Carbon Stock Spatialization and Dynamics Assessment Using Unmanned Aerial Vehicle LiDAR (LiDAR UAV) Data, Landsat Imagery, and Forest Survey Data in the Mediterranean Cork Oak Forest of Maamora

Spatialization of biomass and carbon stocks is essential for a good understanding of the forest stand and its characteristics, especially in degraded Mediterranean cork oak forests. Furthermore, the analysis of biomass and carbon stock changes and dynamics is essential for understanding the carbon cycle, in particular carbon emissions and stocks, in order to make projections, especially in the context of climate change. In this research, we use a multidimensional framework integrating forest survey data, LiDAR UAV data, and extracted vegetation indices from Landsat imagery (NDVI, ARVI, CIG, etc.) to model and spatialize cork oak biomass and carbon stocks on a large scale. For this purpose, we explore the use of univariate and multivariate regression modeling and examine several types of regression, namely, multiple linear regression, stepwise linear regression, random forest regression, simple linear regression, logarithmic regression, and quadratic and cubic regression. The results show that for multivariate regression, stepwise regression gives good results, with R2 equal to 80% and 65% and RMSE equal to 2.59 and 1.52 Mg/ha for biomass and carbon stock, respectively. Random forest regression, chosen as the ML algorithm, gives acceptable results, explaining 80% and 60% of the variation in biomass and carbon stock, respectively, and an RMSE of 2.74 and 1.72 Mg/ha for biomass and carbon stock, respectively. For the univariate regression, the simple linear regression is chosen because it gives satisfactory results, close to those of the quadratic and cubic regressions, but with a simpler equation. The vegetation index chosen is ARVI, which shows good performance indices, close to those of the NDVI and CIG. The assessment of biomass and carbon stock changes in the study area over 35 years (1985–2020) showed a slight increase of less than 10 Mg/ha and a decrease in biomass and carbon stock over a large area.

Magnetron-Sputtered Long-Term Superhydrophilic Thin Films for Use in Solid-State Cooling Devices

Pulse-magnetron-sputtered long-term superhydrophilic coatings have been synthesized to functionalize the surfaces of solid-state cooling devices, e.g., electrocaloric heat pumps, where not only a complete wetting of the surface by a fluid is intended, but also fast wetting and dewetting processes are required. The coatings consist of a (Ti,Si)O2 outer layer that provides lasting hydrophilicity thanks to the mesoporous structure, followed by an intermediate WO3 film that enables the reactivation of the wettability through visible light irradiation, and a W underlayer which can work as a top electrode of the electrocaloric components thanks to its suitable electrical and thermal conductivity properties. Process parameter optimization for each layer of the stack as well as the influence of the microstructure and composition on the wetting properties are presented. Finally, water contact angle measurements, surface energy evaluations, and a contact line dynamics assessment of evaporating drops on the coatings demonstrate that their enhanced wetting performance is attributed not only to their intrinsic hydrophilic nature but also to their porous microstructure, which promotes wicking and spreading at the nanometric scale.

Construction Safety and Efficiency: Integrating Building Information Modeling into Risk Management and Project Execution

Construction Safety and Efficiency: Integrating Building Information Modeling into Risk Management and Project Execution

Assessing the Impacts of Landuse-Landcover (LULC) Dynamics on Groundwater Depletion in Kabul, Afghanistan’s Capital (2000–2022): A Geospatial Technology-Driven Investigation

Land use/land cover (LULC) changes significantly impact spatiotemporal groundwater levels, posing a challenge for sustainable water resource management. This study investigates the long-term (2000–2022) influence of LULC dynamics, particularly urbanization, on groundwater depletion in Kabul, Afghanistan, using geospatial techniques. A time series of Landsat imagery (Landsat 5, 7 ETM+, and 8 OLI/TIRS) was employed to generate LULC maps for five key years (2000, 2005, 2010, 2015, and 2022) using a supervised classification algorithm based on Support Vector Machines (SVMs). Our analysis revealed a significant expansion of urban areas (70%) across Kabul City between 2000 and 2022, particularly concentrated in Districts 5, 6, 7, 11, 12, 13, 15, 17, and 22. Urbanization likely contributes to groundwater depletion through increased population growth, reduced infiltration of precipitation, and potential overexploitation of groundwater resources. The CA-Markov model further predicts continued expansion in built-up areas over the next two decades (2030s and 2040s), potentially leading to water scarcity, land subsidence, and environmental degradation in Kabul City. The periodic assessment of urbanization dynamics and prediction of future trends are considered the novelty of this study. The accuracy of the generated LULC maps was assessed for each year (2000, 2005, 2010, 2015, and 2022), achieving overall accuracy values of 95%, 93.8%, 85%, 95.6%, and 93%, respectively. These findings provide a valuable foundation for the development of sustainable management strategies for Kabul’s surface water and groundwater resources, while also guiding future research efforts.

Effect of Verbal Encouragement on Postural Balance in Individuals with Intellectual Disabilities

This study investigated the effect of verbal encouragement (VE) on static and dynamic balance in individuals with intellectual disabilities (IDs). A total of 13 mild IDs and 12 moderate IDs participants underwent static balance tests (bipedal stance on firm surface, under open eyes (OEs) and closed eyes (CEs), and foam surface, unipedal stance on firm surface) and dynamic balance assessments (Y Balance Test (YBT) and Expanded Timed Up-and-Go Test (ETUGT)) under VE and no VE (NO/VE) conditions. VE significantly reduced center of pressure mean velocity (CoPVm) values for mild IDs in firm bipedal CEs conditions. The mild IDs group exhibited improved YBT scores and enhanced ETUGT performances for both groups under VE. Incorporating VE as a motivational strategy in balance training interventions can positively impact static and dynamic balance in individuals with mild IDs, especially in challenging conditions like unipedal stances on firm surfaces.

The association between dynamic balance andexecutive function: Which dynamic balance test hasthe strongest association with executive function? Asystematic review and meta-analysis.

The aging global population poses increasing challenges related to falls and dementia. Early identification of cognitive decline, particularly before noticeable symptoms manifest, is crucial for effective intervention. This review aims to determine the dynamic balance test most closely associated with executive function, potentially serving as a biomarker for cognitive decline. Based on recent reviews, inhibitory control, a component of executive function, holds significance in influencing balance performance. Studies suggest that the strength of the correlation between cognition and balance tends to be domain-specific and task-specific. Despite these findings, inconclusive evidence remains regarding the connection between executive function and various dynamic balance assessments. Our review identifies a significant association between all dynamic balance tests and executive function, albeit with varying strengths. Notably, a medium effect size is observed for the Timed Up and Go and Functional Reach Test, a small effect size for balance scales, and a strong effect size for postural sway. This review underscores a clear relationship between dynamic balance task performance and executive function. Dynamic posturography holds potential as a clinical biomarker for early detection of cognitive decline, with a note of caution due to observed heterogeneity and limited studies.

Dynamic Characteristics and Risk Assessment of the Yiziyan Rock Topples in Jinsha County, Guizhou, China

Dynamic Characteristics and Risk Assessment of the Yiziyan Rock Topples in Jinsha County, Guizhou, China

A laser-Engraved Wearable Electrochemical Sensing Patch for Heat Stress Precise Individual Management of Horse.

In point-of-care diagnostics, the continuous monitoring of sweat constituents provides a window into individual's physiological state. For species like horses, with abundant sweat glands, sweat composition can serve as an early health indicator. Considering the salience of such metrics in the domain of high-value animal breeding, a sophisticated wearable sensor patch tailored is introduced for the dynamic assessment of equine sweat, offering insights into pH, potassium ion (K+), and temperature profiles during episodes of heat stress and under normal physiological conditions. The device integrates a laser-engraved graphene (LEG)sensing electrode array, a non-invasive iontophoretic module for stimulated sweat secretion, an adaptable signal processing unit, and an embedded wireless communication framework. Profiting from an admirable Truth Table capable of logical evaluation, the integrated system enabled the early and timely assessment for heat stress, with high accuracy, stability, and reproducibility. The sensor patch has been calibrated to align with the unique dermal and physiological contours of equine anatomy, thereby augmenting its applicability in practical settings. This real-time analysis tool for equine perspiration stands to revolutionize personalized health management approaches for high-value animals, marking a significant stride in the integration of smart technologies within the agricultural sector.

Dynamic life cycle assessment of European electricity generation based on a retrospective approach

The composition of electricity varies significantly throughout the year. As a result, the environmental impact of the electricity mix is also highly variable. However, most LCA studies assume a static annual average electricity mix and neglect these fluctuations. Therefore, this study examines the time-varying environmental impacts of electricity generation in Germany, France, Italy, Spain, and Poland using a dynamic life cycle assessment. It shows that the impacts of environmental categories vary considerably depending on when the electricity is generated, resulting from the different energy generation patterns throughout the day and year. In particular, the integration of renewable energy sources such as photovoltaic systems and wind turbines leads to significant fluctuations of environmental impacts. To determine the magnitude of the variation, coefficients of variation are calculated for each environmental impact category for a representative year. High coefficients of variation of more than 20% can be observed for several environmental impact categories. In addition, both a production-based and a consumption-based approach were used for the dynamic life cycle assessment. Comparing these two approaches shows significant differences in impact category results, for example, for Italy, with an average of 15%. These differences highlight the importance of including cross-border electricity flows in assessing the environmental profile of electricity. Overall, the results of the study emphasize the need to implement dynamic electricity mix models in life cycle assessments, especially for systems with time-varying electricity consumption. The provided Excel spreadsheet files with hourly time profiles of environmental impacts for the countries studied facilitate the adoption of the developed models by other practitioners and provide a valuable tool for assessing environmental impacts.

A Narrative Review of the Sociotechnical Landscape and Potential of Computer-Assisted Dynamic Assessment for Children with Communication Support Needs

This paper presents a narrative review of the current practices in assessing learners’ cognitive abilities and the limitations of traditional intelligence tests in capturing a comprehensive understanding of a child’s learning potential. Referencing prior research, it explores the concept of dynamic assessment (DA) as a promising yet underutilised alternative that focuses on a child’s responsiveness to learning opportunities. The paper highlights the potential of novel technologies, in particular tangible user interfaces (TUIs), in integrating computational science with DA to improve the access and accuracy of assessment results, especially for children with communication support needs (CSN), as a catalyst for abetting critical communicative competencies. However, existing research in this area has mainly focused on the automated mediation of DA, neglecting the human element that is crucial for effective solutions in special education. A framework is proposed to address these issues, combining pedagogical and sociocultural elements alongside adaptive information technology solutions in an assessment system informed by user-centred design principles to fully support teachers/facilitators and learners with CSN within the special education ecosystem.

SmartWood: field-based analysis of large wood movement dynamics using inertial measurement units (IMUs)

Wood plays an important ecological role in rivers. Yet challenges arise when large wood (LW) is mobilised and transported during floods. Due to a lack of quantitative data, movement behaviour of LW during floods is still not well understood to date. A proof-of-concept study was conducted at three Swiss rivers to test state-of-the-art sensor-tagged logs, so-called “SmartWood” and collect quantitative field-scale data about LW movement behaviour. The experiments utilised innovative inertial measurement units (IMUs), which have been developed at the Laboratory of Hydraulics, Hydrology and Glaciology (VAW) at ETH Zurich and implanted into wood logs (SmartWood) at prototype scale. Each IMU comprised three individual sensors (gyroscope, accelerometer, and magnetometer) and was equipped with an on-board processor, an AA battery (4.35 V), a memory (8 MB), and a Wi-Fi transmitter (100 m) for data transfer. After successful initial verification tests of the sensors, the IMUs were installed into debranched wood logs, measuring 4.35 m in length and 0.33 m in diameter. At the time of the field experiments, each SmartWood-log weighted between 170 and 220 kg, yielding a density of roughly 500 kg∙m−3. At the Limmat, Thur, and Grosse Melchaa Rivers in Switzerland, innovative yet discontinuous data were obtained. Results revealed consistent movement dynamics across all field sites. Specifically, we observed positive yaw movement during transport of SmartWood along the left river bank and negative yaw movement along the right river bank. Furthermore, interactions of SmartWood with channel boundaries, riparian vegetation, and objects (e.g., ferry dock) were registered and quantified, even when the SmartWood-log was transported out of sight of traditional sensing methods. The conducted field experiments enabled the initial testing of SmartWood in the field and exposed critical limitations of the IMUs and software algorithms for the reconstruction and analysis of floating LW dynamics. The gained knowledge and introduced sensing method will benefit the quantitative assessment of LW dynamics in rivers to maintain safety and functionality for instream structures (e.g., considering LW movement dynamics for the robust design of LW retention and guiding structures), but also river restoration projects and numerical models that rely on quantitative field-scale data.

Diffusion magnetic resonance imaging of cerebrospinal fluid dynamics: Current techniques and future advancements.

Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) plays a critical role in metabolic waste clearance from the brain, requiring its circulation throughout various brain pathways, including the ventricular system, subarachnoid spaces, para-arterial spaces, interstitial spaces, and para-venous spaces. The complexity of CSF circulation has posed a challenge in obtaining noninvasive measurements of CSF dynamics. The assessment of CSF dynamics throughout its various circulatory pathways is possible using diffusion magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) with optimized sensitivity to incoherent water movement across the brain. This review presents an overview of both established and emerging diffusion MRI techniques designed to measure CSF dynamics and their potential clinical applications. The discussion offers insights into the optimization of diffusion MRI acquisition parameters to enhance the sensitivity and specificity of diffusion metrics on underlying CSF dynamics. Lastly, we emphasize the importance of cautious interpretations of diffusion-based imaging, especially when differentiating between tissue- and fluid-related changes or elucidating structural versus functional alterations.

Neuromonitoring in a Case with Midbrain Cavernoma Operated in Sitting Position: Unveiling the Complexities

AbstractThe sitting position is often utilized for mid-brain cavernoma excision due to its several surgical advantages. Intraoperative neuromonitoring aids dynamic functional assessment of neural structures in real-time. In this case report, we discuss the anesthetic management of a patient scheduled for midbrain cavernoma excision in a sitting position. Evoked potential monitoring was performed as the tumor was in proximity to cortico-spinal tracts. We used a combination of inhalational and intravenous anesthetics for the maintenance of anesthesia. Intraoperatively significant events included two episodes of venous air embolism, and loss of motor evoked potentials during the resection of the tumor. These complications were promptly recognized and managed. In the early postoperative period, the patient had motor power 3/5 in flexors of the right upper limb, which improved to normal by Day 5. Thus, good communication among anesthesiologists, neurologists, and surgeons helped identify altered evoked potential signals early, aiding the modification of dissection accordingly.

Assessment of the diabetes mellitus prevalence dynamics in the republic of belarus

Assessment of the diabetes mellitus prevalence dynamics in the republic of belarus

Sensitivity analysis of truck tire tread material properties for on-road applications

This research delves into the sensitivity analysis of a truck tire rubber compound concerning its impact on tire–road interaction characteristics. Initially, the study employs finite element analysis to model a 315/80R22.5 truck tire, which is subsequently validated through static and dynamic response assessments via various simulation tests. Following validation, the established tire model is utilized to conduct a sensitivity analysis of the tire rubber compound specifically applied on the tread. This analysis encompasses several material definitions, including Mooney–Rivlin, visco-Mooney–Rivlin, linear viscoelastic, and nonlinear viscoelastic materials. By exploring the effects of these material models, the research scrutinizes their influence on tire–road interaction characteristics across diverse operating conditions. The tire–road interaction characteristics include the rolling resistance coefficient, and the cornering force at operating conditions including the longitudinal speed, vertical load, and slip angle. This comprehensive investigation offers insights into the intricate relationship between tire composition and performance, thereby enhancing our understanding of tire behavior and informing potential advancements in tire technology.

Investigation of the Effects of Posture and Proprioception Sense on Balance and Gait

The aim of this research is to evaluate the effects of individual differences in head posture, balance parameters, and proprioception on balance and gait in asymptomatic individuals. The research was conducted with 111 participants. Balance and walking ability, range of motion of the cervical spine, body posture, proprioception sense, and both static and dynamic balance assessments were carried out. The relationship of the Timed Up and Go Test with various independent variables such as head forward tilt, proprioceptive error, Flamingo Test score, Functional Reach Test score, and Y Balance Test score was examined. There was a significant negative correlation between the Timed Up and Go Test score and the Functional Reaching Test score and the Y Balance Test score at p = 0.05 statistical significance level. Multiple regression analysis was used to identify variables predicting balance and gait performance. The results showed that there is no statistically significant relationship between the Timed Up and Go Test score and any of the predictive variables. The findings indicated that impairments in upper extremity reaching capacity and particular aspects of dynamic equilibrium could potentially be associated with the prolonged duration of the Timed Up and Go Test. The aforementioned discoveries hold significance for evaluating and restoring the physical abilities of people with mobility limitations.

Dynamic response and damage assessment of partially confined metallic cylinders under transverse blast loading

Dynamic response and damage assessment of partially confined metallic cylinders under transverse blast loading

Seismic performance assessment of the church of SS. Annunziata in Paestum through finite element analysis

This paper presents a comprehensive study on the Church of Ss. Annunziata in Paestum (Italy), focusing on its historical reconstruction, current condition analysis, and dynamic characterization. An extensive photogrammetric survey employing terrestrial and aerial photography was conducted to establish an accurate geometric model of the church. Subsequently, the model was set up into Abaqus ambiance for dynamic characterization, material modelling and assessment of potential local failure mechanisms through nonlinear dynamic analysis under varying seismic intensities. The research provides valuable insights into the structural behaviour of the church and its vulnerability to seismic events, aiding in informed decision-making for preservation and restoration efforts.