Technical Proficiency Research Articles

Advanced CFD simulation of two-phase anion exchange membrane water electrolysis

Anion exchange membrane (AEM) water electrolysis is a promising and inexpensive solution for hydrogen production and environmental problems. Owing to its low technical proficiency, AEM electrolysis necessitates high fidelity to improve its durability, reliability, and efficiency. Therefore, a CFD-based model for AEM electrolysis was developed to analyze the three-dimensional and two-phase phenomena inside the cell. The temperature, pressure, and gas generation profiles inside the cell were studied by combining electrochemical models with mass, momentum, and heat transfer models. Parameters were estimated using the experimental data from a high-accuracy model. The results showed that the applied voltage, which determined the exothermic/endothermic mode, significantly influenced the water electrolysis performance. Specifically, in the exothermic mode, with voltages exceeding the thermo-neutral voltage (1.48 V), the amount of hydrogen generated (15.53, 25.05, and 28.82 mol/m3 at 1.6, 1.8, and 2.0 V, respectively) was higher than that in the endothermic mode (4.78 mol/m3 at 1.45 V). However, the increased gas generation caused a rapid increase in the temperature and pressure drop inside the cell, which adversely affected durability. The model developed in this study can be used in experiments of various scales to optimize serpentine designs and commercial AEM electrolysis stack developments.

Beginning teachers’ descriptions of ball games as pedagogic practice in Swedish physical education

Teaching approaches in ball games in school physical education (PE) have traditionally focused on technical proficiency. Technical approaches have been criticised for being teacher-centred, exclusive, and lacking meaning. Game-based approaches (GBAs) have been presented as an alternative way to teach ball games. Employing GBAs is, however, not without challenges. Scholars have pointed to teachers’ limited content knowledge of games, their poor understanding of GBAs, and cultural expectations of ball games as factors that constrain teachers’ work with GBAs. The aim of this article is to provide an understanding of how beginning teachers describe ball games as a pedagogic practice in Swedish PE. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 12 beginning teachers who had graduated from two physical education teacher education (PETE) institutions. Bernstein's concepts of classification and framing were used to analyse the teachers’ descriptions of pedagogic practice. The findings illustrate how the classification of ball games knowledge varies. Some of the beginning teachers aimed to develop pupils’ understanding of games while others instead used ball games as a means for developing general movement capability or cooperation. Ball games teaching was characterised by a combination of GBAs and technical approaches. The influence of competitive sport outside of school was seen as a challenge, and the beginning teachers used strong framing and different teaching strategies combined with assessment to manage this challenge. The findings raise questions about ball games education in PETE in relation to specific national contexts.

Measuring the Impact of Technological Evolutions on Fine Arts Competence Development

Technological evaluations have significantly enhanced college students’ fine arts competence development by providing advanced tools and platforms that foster creativity, improve technical skills, and enable innovative artistic expression. In this study 500 college students were mentioned as participators. The variables Technological Tools, Technical Proficiency, Advanced Technologies, Creativity and Innovation, Online Platforms, Skill Development, and Collaborative Competencies are built to evaluate various aspects of technological and creative capabilities in educational and professional settings. Fine arts competitions like the (Artificial Intelligence) AI art contest, digital choreography competition, and speech AI innovation challenge are held for the students to improve their skill development. The questionnaires are taken to measure the student's technological skills development based on before and after competitions. The SPSS software version 28 is used to statistically analyze the data with multiple regression analysis and pearson correlation analysis. The results showed that the integration of technological tools and platforms significantly improved college student's technical proficiency, creativity, and collaborative skills in fine arts. Students exhibited notable enhancements in skill development and engagement with advanced technologies post-competition. Technology significantly enhances fine arts education by improving students' artistic skills and collaboration. Embracing digital tools offers valuable opportunities to enrich curricula and foster innovation.

Customer Participation in New Product Development: The Contingent Effects of Product Development Proficiency and Task Uncertainty

In the literature on new product development, the positive effect of customer participation on the success of new products is under debate. Based on the contingency theory, explanations on inconsistent findings about this effect may be found. Therefore, drawing on the open innovation concept, this study considers customer participation as a success factor of new product development by reexamining its effect on new product development performance and hypothesizes the contingent role of product development proficiency (marketing and technical) and task uncertainty. To this end, survey data from 186 Iranian manufacturing firms are gathered, and research hypotheses are tested using structural equation modeling. The results indicate customer participation and NPD performance to not have a clear/unidirectional relationship. However, findings substantiate that this relationship becomes positive and significant in the conditions of high product development technical proficiency and task uncertainty. Finally, product development marketing proficiency was found to have no significant role in the relationship between customer participation and new product development performance. This study extends several streams of research in the new product development literature and proposes recommendations to managers of firms.

Characterizing Spanish-speaking patients' patient-centered care experiences in the emergency department.

Patient-centered care (PCC) is an essential component of high-quality health, yet patients with non-English language preferences (NELP) experience worse PCC outcomes. Additionally, there are likely unique aspects to PCC for patients with NELP in the emergency department (ED). To inform the development of strategies to improve PCC for NELP in the ED, we sought to understand how Spanish-speaking ED patients experience care and the factors that influenced their perceptions of the patient-centeredness of that care. We conducted a single-center qualitative study using semistructured interviews with adult, Spanish-speaking patients who had been discharged home from the ED. Interviews were conducted using an interview guide, recorded, transcribed, and analyzed iteratively in Spanish using inductive and deductive thematic analysis. We conducted 19 interviews with participants from 24 to 72 years old. Participants were born in seven different Spanish-speaking countries. Participants identified three domains of PCC: patient, medical team's skills, and system. Several of the identified themes such as shared decision making, open communication, compassionate care, and coordination of follow-up care are often incorporated into PCC definitions. However, other themes, including uncertainty leading to fear, use of professional interpreters to promote understanding, receiving equitable care, technical proficiency, and efficiency of care expand upon existing domains in PCC definitions. We now have a more nuanced understanding of how Spanish-speaking patients with NELP experience PCC in the ED and what matters to them. Several of the themes identified in this analysis add details about what matters to patients within the domains of previous PCC definitions. This suggests that the conceptualization of PCC may vary based on the setting where care is provided and the population who is receiving this care. Future work should consider patient population and setting when conceptualizing PCC.

Investigation and Modelling of Barriers in Adoption of Blockchain Technology for Accounting and Finance

Blockchain technology has attracted considerable attention from both academicians and industry players in different industries, such as accounting and finance, because of its transformative potential of re-engineering the process of operation and enhancing the level of required transparency in these industries. However, despite the various possibilities of transforming the accounting and finance sectors, there are still numerous challenges that hinder the further development of blockchain technology in the domain. The various obstacles to the adoption of blockchain in accounting and finance are interconnected and include a diverse set of issues related to technology, organization, regulations, and knowledge. To overcome these obstacles, it is necessary to take a comprehensive approach that includes improving technical proficiency, encouraging cooperation among stakeholders, negotiating intricate regulations, and cultivating a culture of innovation and adaptation within enterprises.

The Influence of Early Motor Skill Development on Technical Proficiency in Adolescent Football Players

The acquisition of fundamental motor skills (FMS) during early childhood lays the groundwork for more complex motor skills and sports-specific techniques later in life. This study investigates the relationship between early motor skill development and technical proficiency in adolescent football players. A longitudinal study was conducted, tracking the motor skill development of 50 participants from ages 5 to 15. Early motor skills were assessed using standardized tests, while technical proficiency in football was evaluated through a combination of skill-specific drills and match performance analysis during adolescence. The findings revealed a significant positive correlation between early motor skill competence and subsequent technical proficiency in football. Participants who demonstrated higher levels of FMS competence in early childhood exhibited superior ball control, passing accuracy, shooting power, and overall technical performance as adolescent football players. In conclusion, the study underscores the critical role of early motor skill development in shaping technical proficiency in adolescent football players. Promoting and facilitating early FMS acquisition can significantly enhance the technical abilities of young athletes, potentially leading to improved performance and long-term success in football.

Harmonizing Code and Canvas: The Role of Generative AI in Aesthetic Education for Vocational Students

This paper delves into the pivotal role of generative artificial intelligence (AI) within vocational aesthetic education, specifically focusing on its capacity to augment artistic expression and cultivate technical proficiency. As AI undergoes continuous evolution, it catalyzes significant transformations in educational paradigms by amalgamating creativity with digital acumen, thereby equipping the workforce with adeptness in navigating technologically driven landscapes. The study critically examines how AI reconfigures educational frameworks, enriching learning experiences through tailored, collaborative, and globally oriented approaches. Additionally, it scrutinizes the ethical, pragmatic, and pedagogical hurdles intrinsic to AI integration, encompassing concerns such as data privacy, bias mitigation, and the imperative for perpetual curriculum innovation and educator empowerment. The findings underscore that the realization of AI’s potential in advancing vocational aesthetic education hinges upon strategic deployment, ongoing evaluation, and inclusive discourse among all educational stakeholders, ensuring alignment with educational objectives and responsiveness to global labor market exigencies. This analysis underscores AI’s capacity to optimize educational outcomes and equip students for a multifaceted and evolving future, advocating for proactive and inclusive strategies to harness AI’s advantages within educational milieus.

Singing Techniques and Teaching Methods of Singer Liao Changyong in Chinese Opera Vocal Performance in a Sociological Context

Background and Aims: Grounded in the rich tradition of Chinese opera, the study aims to investigate the singing techniques and teaching methods of Singer Liao Changyong in Chinese Opera Vocal Performance in a Sociological Context. Materials and Methods: Utilizing a mixed-methods approach, including qualitative analysis, interviews, and sociocultural analysis, the research investigates how Singer Liao Changyong navigates the dynamic landscape of Chinese opera vocal performance, particularly in terms of technical proficiency, emotional expression, and cultural resonance, integration of Bel canto singing traditions with Chinese opera. Results: Through a comprehensive examination of Liao Changyong's journey from rural roots to international acclaim, the study uncovers valuable insights into the sociological dimensions of opera reflecting human experiences and societal dynamics. The findings contribute to theoretical discourse in music education, performance studies, and sociological studies on music and culture, emphasizing the importance of cultural preservation, innovation, and cross-cultural dialogue in the realm of vocal performance. Conclusion: The study explores the intricate relationship between individual artistry and sociocultural influences in Chinese opera vocal performance, emphasizing the importance of incorporating cultural nuances, emotional expression, and technical mastery in vocal education and performance, offering practical guidance for educators and performers.

MAQASID SHARIAH-BASED DIGITAL ECONOMY MODEL: INTEGRATION, SUSTAINABILITY AND TRANSFORMATION

This research examines the integration of digital economic models within pesantren (Islamic traditional educational institutions) in East Java, Indonesia, with a particular focus on institutions such as Sidogiri, Al-Yasini, and Sintesa. The research examines how these pesantren reconcile digital progress with Maqāsid Shariah principles, balancing the modernization of economic and educational practices with the preservation of Islamic values. Qualitative methods, such as interviews and focus group discussions, are used to capture the transformative journey of these pesantren toward a digital economy. The study highlights how digital technology is being strategically implemented to improve educational outcomes, operational efficiency, and economic growth while adhering to the core aspects of Maqāsid Shariah the protection of faith, life, intellect, offspring, and property. The research highlights the strategic implementation of digital technologies in pesantren, addressing challenges like technical proficiency and cultural integration. The study underscores the strategic importance of digital integration in Islamic educational institutions for socio-economic and cultural advancement in the digital era. This paper provides important insights into the sustainable adaptation of digital models in pesantren by highlighting the importance of Maqāsid Shariah in guiding these institutions through technological change. This research is essential for policymakers, educators, and stakeholders by providing a nuanced understanding of the intersection between Islamic values and digital innovation in the pesantren sector.

Fostering Excellence through Mentorship: A Study of Professional Growth in Data Engineering

This article examines the critical role of mentorship in developing data engineering skills and fostering professional growth within the field. Through a comprehensive analysis of mentorship programs in data engineering organizations, we investigate the impact on both technical proficiency and soft skill development. Our findings reveal that structured mentorship significantly enhances mentees' capabilities in areas such as programming, data modeling, and ETL processes, while also improving their communication and project management skills. The article highlights the mutual benefits for mentors and mentees, including accelerated learning curves, increased job satisfaction, and improved retention rates. We identify key elements of successful mentorship programs, including clear goal-setting, regular feedback mechanisms, and alignment with organizational objectives. The article also addresses common challenges in implementing mentorship initiatives and proposes best practices for overcoming these obstacles. Our results underscore the importance of mentorship as a strategic tool for talent development in the rapidly evolving field of data engineering, providing valuable insights for both practitioners and organizations seeking to cultivate expertise and drive innovation in this domain

Capacity development training workshop on crop simulation modelling and effects of climate risks on agricultural production systems in Southeast Asia

Southeast Asia (SEA) has experienced frequent floods and droughts, posing severe challenges for farmers, agricultural scientists and extension officers. Consequently, crop modelling has become imperative in developing agricultural production systems and making informed decisions at the field level. The Decision Support System for Agrotechnology Transfer (DSSAT) can be effectively utilised at both farm and regional levels to assess the influence of climate change on production across different spatial scales. Moreover, it supports planning adaptation strategies tailored to the needs of farmers. The one-week hands-on training workshop aims to enhance technical and scientific proficiency in crop simulation modelling and evaluate the effects of climate risks on agricultural production systems in Southeast Asian countries such as Cambodia, Lao PDR, Thailand and Vietnam. A total of 62 participants from the selected countries, including Singapore and Ethiopia, were joined in the training. Among them were 48 male and 24 female individuals, comprising researchers, students, scientists, academicians and extension officers. The participants predominantly acquired knowledge of crop simulation modelling techniques by utilising existing case examples and lecture materials from the DSSAT foundation. Furthermore, the training workshops establish research networks and collaborations among the participant countries, facilitating the exchange of scientific knowledge related to innovative farm management practices and fostering interactions between local agricultural communities and scientists.

Higher proceduralist stroke thrombectomy volume is associated with reduced inpatient mortality

BackgroundThe aim of this study was to determine the impact of endovascular thrombectomy (EVT) proceduralist volume on in-hospital mortality in acute ischemic stroke (AIS) patients.MethodsWe performed a retrospective cohort study...

Can Anyone Learn to Code? A Qualitative Study of Place-Based Information Technology Training Programs

The demand for workers with information technology skills is high, creating a challenge for today's workforce system to train enough people. In response, nonprofit organizations and workforce development agencies have developed place-based training programs for information technology jobs. The intricate nature of these jobs necessitates innovative training approaches that address both technical proficiency and cultural competence. Drawing from interviews and case studies, this analysis highlights the importance of rigorous prescreening processes, structured support for graduates transitioning to employment, and collaboration with employers in ensuring the success and sustainability of place-based information technology training programs. It is recommended that programs incorporate these elements into their design to effectively meet the demands of the labor market and foster diversity and inclusion within the technology sector.

Exploring L2 educators' training and professional development needs in VR English language learning

Virtual Reality technology has garnered increasing attention and utilization within language education. The research explored the multifaceted challenges and opportunities L2 educators encounter in Iran when integrating VR technology into language instruction and when focusing on educators' perceptions of VR technology and the training gaps they identify. The researchers adopted a qualitative case study design. The selection of cases involved purposive sampling. The study included a total number of 23 L2 educators from language institutions in Iran. In the current study the researchers administered a qualitative case study design, focusing on the experiences of educators in real-world settings where VR technology was being used or considered for language instruction. Research findings reveal that educators encounter significant training gaps related to VR technology, emphasizing the critical need for comprehensive training programs. The implications of this study underscore the importance of equipping educators with the knowledge and skills required to harness VR's potential for enhancing language instruction. Training programs should encompass technical proficiency, pedagogical competence, administrative navigation, collaborative learning, alignment with learning goals, and ongoing professional development. By addressing these multifaceted needs, institutions and organizations can empower educators to leverage VR effectively, fostering engaging and effective language learning experiences for students.

Innovative approaches to financial analytics education: Kolb's theory in SEC IPO analysis

AbstractThis study presents an innovative educational approach, integrating David A. Kolb's Experiential Learning Theory (ELT) into financial analytics education, with a focus on the analysis of Initial Public Offerings (IPOs) via the SEC's EDGAR database. Through the application of ELT, this article explores the effective melding of experiential learning methodologies with advanced analytical tools such as Python, SQL, and various data analytics platforms. The teaching exercise outlined emphasizes the importance of hands‐on activities—ranging from data scraping and analysis of SEC filings to conducting sentiment analysis—aimed at fostering not only technical proficiency among students but also enhancing their critical thinking and ethical decision‐making skills. By detailing the execution and outcomes of utilizing ELT in the context of financial analytics, this work contributes to the discourse on modern finance education, advocating for a model that prepares students for the challenges of an increasingly complex and ethical finance industry. This approach underscores the need for educational practices that are both theoretically robust and practically relevant, ensuring students are well‐equipped for dynamic roles within the finance sector.

Flow Diversion for Cerebral Aneurysms: A Decade-Long Experience with Improved Outcomes and Predictors of Success.

Flow diversion has significantly improved the management of cerebral aneurysms. Technological advancements and increased clinical experience over the past decade have led to better outcomes and fewer complications. This study provides updated results and examines the factors that influence the success of flow diversion. We reviewed records of 115 patients with 121 intracranial aneurysms treated from July 2014 to August 2023. All patients had unruptured aneurysms in the anterior and posterior circulation. Complete aneurysm occlusion was achieved in 72.7% of cases, with a complication rate of 9.1%. Significant predictors of complete occlusion included aneurysm diameter (OR = 0.89, 95% CI 0.82-0.97, p = 0.009) and the presence of incorporated branches (OR = 0.22, 95% CI 0.08-0.59, p = 0.003). Cox analysis identified neck diameter (HR = 0.92, 95% CI 0.87-0.98, p = 0.009) and incorporated branch (HR = 0.40, 95% CI 0.24-0.69, p = 0.001) as significant for occlusion. Multivariable analysis identified aneurysm diameter (OR = 1.21, 95% CI 1.09-1.37, p = 0.001) as significant for safety outcomes. Improved outcomes were observed in recent treatments, with higher occlusion rates (79.7% vs. 61.7%, p = 0.050) and lower complication rates (4.1% vs. 14.9%, p = 0.011). Enhanced technical proficiency, better devices, and refined patient selection have significantly improved the efficacy and safety of flow diversion for cerebral aneurysms. Identifying significant predictors for treatment success and safety outcomes can inform clinical practice, aiding in patient selection.

An Ethnographic Exploration of Performance-Based Learning in Chinese University Music Education

This ethnographic study explores the impact of performance-based learning on music education at Langfang Teachers University in China. Through observations and interviews, the study examines how live demonstrations, student performances, and ensemble practices contribute to students' technical proficiency, musical interpretation, collaborative skills, and self-confidence. The findings reveal high levels of student engagement and appreciation for hands-on learning, with significant improvements in instrumental and vocal skills. However, challenges such as performance anxiety, resource limitations, time management issues, and varying levels of preparedness were also identified. Recommendations include implementing workshops for anxiety management, increasing funding for facilities, developing structured practice schedules, and introducing peer mentoring programs. The study underscores the importance of integrating traditional Chinese music with contemporary practices, ensuring a well-rounded and culturally enriched music education that prepares students for diverse careers in the global music industry.

New achievements in orbital angular momentum beam characterization using a Hartmann wavefront sensor and the Kirkpatrick-Baez active optical system KAOS.

Advances in physics have been significantly driven by state-of-the-art technology, and in photonics and X-ray science this calls for the ability to manipulate the characteristics of optical beams. Orbital angular momentum (OAM) beams hold substantial promise in various domains such as ultra-high-capacity optical communication, rotating body detection, optical tweezers, laser processing, super-resolution imaging etc. Hence, the advancement of OAM beam-generation technology and the enhancement of its technical proficiency and characterization capabilities are of paramount importance. These endeavours will not only facilitate the use of OAM beams in the aforementioned sectors but also extend the scope of applications in diverse fields related to OAM beams. At the FERMI Free-Electron Laser (Trieste, Italy), OAM beams are generated either by tailoring the emission process on the undulator side or, in most cases, by coupling a spiral zone plate (SZP) in tandem with the refocusing Kirkpatrick-Baez active optic system (KAOS). To provide a robust and reproducible workflow to users, a Hartmann wavefront sensor (WFS) is used for both optics tuning and beam characterization. KAOS is capable of delivering both tightly focused and broad spots, with independent control over vertical and horizontal magnification. This study explores a novel non-conventional `near collimation' operational mode aimed at generating beams with OAM that employs the use of a lithographically manufactured SZP to achieve this goal. The article evaluates the mirror's performance through Hartmann wavefront sensing, offers a discussion of data analysis methodologies, and provides a quantitative analysis of these results with ptychographic reconstructions.

Step-cut osteotomy for cubitus varus deformity with application of patient-specific instrument in children: a preliminary report.

The step-cut osteotomy has been recognized as a valuable approach for addressing cubitus varus deformity, albeit one that necessitates technical proficiency. This study aims to evaluate the efficacy of the modified step-cut osteotomy technique in conjunction with patient-specific instruments by clinical and radiological assessment. We conducted a retrospective review of patients who underwent modified step-cut osteotomy with the use of patient-specific instruments in conjunction with Kirschner wires fixation for the correction of cubitus varus deformity between April 2016 and April 2022. Follow-up was performed for a minimum of two years, during which pre-operative and post-operative clinical and radiological parameters were compared. Fifteen patients were enrolled in this study. The mean pre-operative humeral-elbow-wrist (HEW) of the affected side was -21.7° (ranging from -14° to -34°), while the normal side was 9.4° (ranging from 5° to 15°). The post-operation HEW of affected side was 9° (ranging from 4° to 16°). There was no significant difference between the normal side and affected side after operation (p = 0.74). Pre-operative range of motion in the affected side was 130°, while the post-operative range of motion was 132°. Fourteen patients (93.3%) were pleased with the overall appearance of their elbow. None lazy-S deformity was observed in these cases. There were no major complications. The modified step-cut osteotomy technique, utilizing patient-specific instrument in conjunction with Kirschner wires fixation was found to be a safe, reliable, and technically easy procedure for correcting cubitus varus deformity.