On the potential of augmented reality for mathematics teaching with the application cleARmaths

Learning content in mathematics, such as vector geometry, is still predominantly taught in an abstract manner, as the visualization and interaction of three-dimensional problems are limited with classical forms of teaching such as blackboard lessons or exercise sheets. This research article proposes the use of augmented reality (AR) in mathematics education. The proposed approach aims at easing the learning process related to vector geometry currently taught in senior mathematics classes by using intuitive visualization. The article introduces the concept of AR and presents the didactic foundations and the influence on the learning process based on an extensive literature review. Although studies see great potential in the use of AR for teaching mathematics, the method has so far hardly been used in schools. This can be mainly explained by the technological entry barrier of AR and the lack of simple, robust AR applications, in particular for vector geometry. To fill this gap, the authors developed “cleARmaths”, a developed android application for augmented reality-based teaching in vector geometry that allows widespread use. As a didactical concept, some example exercises sessions with the app are proposed, demonstrating how the app could be used in a mathematics classroom. Finally, the app was evaluated in a mathematics class and the results analyzed in a detailed study. It was found by the teacher and students to be beneficial and amusing, demonstrating the potential for AR in mathematics classes

bim for public authorities basic research for the standardized implementation of bim in the building permit process

The building permit is an indispensable connection between the approval authority and the executive client within the construction process. Moreover, sustainability criteria do not have sufficient regard in the building permit process in the area of research. To lay the foundation for a state-of-the-art digitalization of the building permit process, the study identifies the information requirements relevant to implement the BIM methodology taking into consideration the available sustainability aspects relevant to the process. A detailed evaluation of the building permit process and the analysis of projects that have gained building permission in the last five years in the area of study of South Tyrol (Italy) gives us a better understanding of the organizational structure and responsibilities in the process. The authors use the data of in-depth process analysis to assess a defined catalogue of basic requirements for BIM methodology in the building permit process. As a result, the analysed BIM-integrated approach enables an early-stage identification of approval compliance, which can be evaluated in the building permit process. A good understanding of the current process must be considered a key factor of a successful introduction of BIM for the building permit procedure

Abundance ratios and IMF slopes in the dwarf elliptical galaxy NGC 1396 with MUSE

Deep observations of the dwarf elliptical (dE) galaxy NGC 1396 (MV = −16.60, Mass ~4 × 10^8 M�), located in the Fornax cluster, have been performed with the VLT/ MUSE spectrograph in the wavelength region from 4750 − 9350 Å. In this paper we present a stellar population analysis studying chemical abundances, the star formation history (SFH) and the stellar initial mass function (IMF) as a function of galacto-centric distance. Different, independent ways to analyse the stellar populations result in a luminosity-weighted age of ∼ 6 Gyr and a metallicity [Fe/H]∼ −0.4, similar to other dEs of similar mass. We find unusually overabundant values of [Ca/Fe] ∼ +0.1, and under-abundant Sodium, with [Na/Fe] values around −0.1, while [Mg/Fe] is overabundant at all radii, increasing from ∼ +0.1 in the centre to ∼ +0.2 dex. We notice a significant metallicity and age gradient within this dwarf galaxy. To constrain the stellar IMF of NGC 1396, we find that the IMF of NGC 1396 is consistent with either a Kroupa-like or a top-heavy distribution, while a bottom-heavy IMF is firmly ruled out. An analysis of the abundance ratios, and a comparison with galaxies in the Local Group, shows that the chemical enrichment history of NGC 1396 is similar to the Galactic disc, with an extended star formation history. This would be the case if the galaxy originated from a LMC-sized dwarf galaxy progenitor, which would lose its gas while falling into the Fornax cluster

The effects of ocular magnification on Spectralis spectral domain optical coherence tomography scan length

Purpose The purpose of this study was to assess the effects of incorporating individual ocular biometry measures of corneal curvature, refractive error, and axial length on scan length obtained using Spectralis spectral domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT). Methods Two SD-OCT scans were acquired for 50 eyes of 50 healthy participants, first using the Spectralis default keratometry (K) setting followed by incorporating individual mean-K values. Resulting scan lengths were compared to predicted scan lengths produced by image simulation software, based on individual ocular biometry measures including axial length. Results Axial length varied from 21.41 to 29.04 mm. Spectralis SD-OCT scan lengths obtained with default-K ranged from 5.7 to 7.3 mm, and with mean-K from 5.6 to 7.6 mm. We report a stronger correlation of simulated scan lengths incorporating the subject’s mean-K value (ρ = 0.926, P < 0.0005) compared to Spectralis default settings (ρ = 0.663, P < 0.0005). Conclusions Ocular magnification appears to be better accounted for when individual mean-K values are incorporated into Spectralis SD-OCT scan acquisition versus using the device’s default-K setting. This must be considered when taking area measurements and lateral measurements parallel to the retinal surface

Outlining a new collaborative business model as a result of the green Building Information Modelling impact in the AEC supply chain

BIM (Building Information Modelling) technological push has enabled to integrate the design/construction outcomes of 3D-CAD along the product/service AEC (Architecture, Engineering and Construction) SC (supply chain) through an intelligent DMS (Data Management System) based on standard and interoperable data formats. The proposed end-to-end approach overcomes a typical AEC gap, enables the operationalisation of the sustainable/green building LCA (Life Cycle Assessment) and puts together new collaborative relationships with the owner, among SC stakeholders and with new forms of BIM procurement. The outlined collaborative business model is based on the Quality Control and Assurance framework and provides conceptual consistency to the reintroduction of the owner concerns/satisfaction in the SC, as well as enables consistent and accountable relationships between (smart)materials procurement and building specification. An expert’s focus group carried out a preliminary check of the model’s interest/applicability, resulting in recommendations for its further detailing and for propositions development into a systematic enquiring process.info:eu-repo/semantics/acceptedVersio