bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Challenges, opportunities, and effects of alternative assessment approaches in teaching practices: a systematic literature review
Authors: Sanusi Najdah , Zulkifli Hafizhah , Hamzah Mohd Isa
Published: February 2025

Alternative assessment, encompassing methods such as portfolios, project-based evaluations, and peer assessments, aligns with 21st-century student-centered learning goals by holistically and authentically evaluating students’ progress. This research applies the systematic review literature method with the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses (PRISMA) protocol. The study analyzed 47 peer-reviewed articles published between 2019 and 2023, sourced from Web of Science, Scopus, and Education Resource Information Centre (ERIC) databases. The thematic analysis revealed three main themes: i) challenges in implementing alternative assessments, including teacher readiness and assessment skills; ii) opportunities for enhancing creativity and variety in teaching approaches; and iii) positive effects on teachers’ motivation and understanding of student learning. The findings highlight the need for targeted professional development to support teachers in effectively implementing alternative assessments. This review contributes to the growing body of knowledge on innovative assessment practices and their impact on teaching and learning in contemporary educational settings.
Integrating acting techniques in informal learning for prospective primary teachers
Authors: Lyuft Alexey , Akpayeva Assel , Astambayeva Zhupat , Kulgildinova Tulebike
Published: February 2025

The topic of informal education is particularly pertinent within the pedagogical science and practice of universities in Kazakhstan. Contemporary professional education emphasizes the importance of not only pedagogical skills but also the acting abilities of teachers. However, the development of acting skills among prospective primary teachers is generally underemphasized. This neglect is evident in the absence of relevant courses within the educational programs of Kazakhstani universities, as well as in the disproportionate emphasis on independent work over classroom and extracurricular activities related to acting and pedagogical techniques. This study aims to examine the benefits and applications of incorporating acting techniques into the training of prospective primary teachers to improve their professional preparation, support their ongoing professional development, and foster successful educational practice. The research findings revealed that specialized vocational preparation techniques are essential for the training of modern educators. This study found the impact of acting techniques on the educational process for preparing teacher candidates improved their professional preparation, while also supporting their ongoing professional development and fostering successful educational practice.
Spectroscopic Study of Micro-/Nano-Hydroxyapatite Polymer Composites Modified with Carbon Nanofibers
Authors: Kołodziej Anna , Rachwał Małgorzata , Długoń Elżbieta , Ziąbka Magdalena , Wesełucha-Birczyńska Aleksandra
Published: February 2025

Nowadays, novel biomaterials are under intense research because they are part of promising therapies for the treatment of age-related diseases such as osteoporosis and bone defects. In the presented study, composites of poly(ε-caprolactone) (PCL), micro and nano hydroxyapatite (µ-HAp and n-HAp) and carbon nanofibers (CNFs) were prepared. The influence of additives on polymeric matrix was analyzed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Raman micro-spectroscopy, Raman mapping, and two-dimensional correlation spectroscopy (2D-COS). The bioactivity in vitro was evaluated by a 21-day incubation of prepared membranes in simulated body fluid (SBF). It was concluded that additives can behave as crystallization nuclei of PCL, but they are also located across the entire surface of PCL spherulites, not only in the center. With an increasing content of HAp additives, polymeric spherulites become smaller. The type of HAp (µ-HAp or n-HAp) influences the PCL matrix differently, as confirmed by 2D-COS. The component whose addition leads to most significant changes in the polymer is CNFs; polymeric spherulites are small to the extent that they are not distinguishable, and the overall amorphousness of the polymer is the highest among all tested materials, as is its hydrophobicity. The bioactivity test indicated that the membrane with the greatest potential for use as a biomaterial in bone tissue engineering is one consisting of n-HAp (15 wt%) and CNFs, as very uniform coverage of the produced apatite was observed on the surface of this membrane after incubation in SBF.
An Interpersonal Paradigm and the First Fundamental Existential Motivation in Clinical Practice: A Conceptual Understanding
Authors: Agopian Sarine , Parker Daniel , AlHarouny Jennifer
Published: February 2025

It is crucial in today’s world to have a transtheoretical view of our existence. To achieve a balance between an individualistic notion of freedom and personal will, which have had a significant impact on the post-modern era, it is crucial to embrace an interpersonal paradigm as a compensating action. An interpersonal theoretical framework encompasses a range of therapeutic modalities, including existential approaches. The aim of this article is to attempt to answer the following questions: (a) What is existential analysis (EA)? (b) How did EA develop, and how does it differ from other existential and interpersonal theories? (c) What is EA’s existential structural framework about? (d) What are the four existential motivations? (e) What is EA’s first fundamental existential motivation (FM1) about, and where do we see it in clinical practice? The article’s focus has significant implications for clinical practice, particularly in enhancing therapeutic engagement and outcomes through a deeper understanding of existential motivations. It introduces a fundamental concept that clinicians can use to better understand and address the existential needs of their patients.
Emotion understanding in internationally adopted children and children in residential care: Developmental periods and mediation by language
Authors: Román Maite , Carrera Pablo , Palacios Jesús , Moreno Carmen
Published: February 2025

Emotion understanding (EU) is a socio-cognitive skill that enables us to understand the expression of emotions in ourselves and others. Exposure to early adversity hinders its development, since quality social interactions are essential for its growth. Language is a critical component of EU, and therefore, it may be a mediator between early adversity exposure and EU. In this study, we analyzed EU development and the mediating role of language in the relation between early adversity and EU in internationally adopted children, maltreated children in residential care, and a community comparison group. Children ( N = 145) were between 4 and 8 years old at assessment. A total of 39 internationally adopted children, 48 maltreated children living in residential care, and a community comparison group of 58 children with no contact with child-protective services participated. We assessed EU using the Test of Emotional Comprehension and language using a receptive syntax language assessment. Both internationally adopted and maltreated children in residential care lagged behind community children in EU, with internationally adopted children showing a higher EU than children living in residential care in some areas. The effect of being in the adopted or residential care group on EU was mediated through receptive language, partially in the case of children in residential care. Results are discussed considering the potential for catch-up in socio-emotional development and the importance of adequate statistical modeling of mediator variables.
The relationship between physical activity level, dietary patterns, and metabolic syndrome: An empirical study in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Alhajrim Ahlam Saleh , Alanzi Turki , Alzahrani Wala , Alshehab Hassan Abdullah , Alanazi Elham , Alhajri Esmat , Aljamaan Nahla , Aldandan Fadhel Abbas Ali , Almumttin Zahra , Alnwaisser Mariam , Abdullah Almajed Zahrah , Alzahrani Amaal , Alanzi Nouf
Published: February 2025

Background

Metabolic syndrome, a cluster of conditions increasing the risk of heart disease, stroke, and diabetes, is a growing concern globally. In Saudi Arabia, lifestyle factors such as physical activity and dietary patterns play a significant role in the prevalence of metabolic syndrome.

Study Purpose

This study aims to explore the relationship between physical activity levels, dietary patterns, and the prevalence of metabolic syndrome among adults in Saudi Arabia.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted using purposive and convenience sampling techniques. A total of 468 participants completed questionnaires assessing their physical activity levels and dietary patterns. Metabolic syndrome was determined based on clinical measurements of waist circumference, blood pressure, fasting glucose, and lipid levels.

Results

The analysis revealed a significant association between lower physical activity levels and poor dietary patterns with higher prevalence rates of metabolic syndrome. The analysis revealed that participants with low physical activity levels had a higher prevalence of metabolic syndrome ( p < 0.01). Similarly, those with unhealthy dietary patterns (high in saturated fats and sugars) showed a metabolic syndrome risk ( p < 0.01), compared to those with healthy dietary patterns.

Conclusion

The findings underscore the critical role of physical activity and dietary patterns in the development of metabolic syndrome in Saudi Arabia. Public health interventions targeting lifestyle modifications could be essential in mitigating metabolic syndrome and improving overall health.
A socio-ecological lens to segmenting adult's eating behaviour
Authors: Kitunen Anna , Carins Julia , Rundle-Thiele Sharyn
Published: February 2025

Background: The increasing levels of overweight and obesity are negatively impacting the health and wellbeing of individuals and communities. Whilst individual factors are important, the prevalence of overweight and obesity is partly caused by several social and environmental factors that can potentially be modified. A limited number of studies apply a broader theoretical lens to expand the focus beyond individual factors targeted for change. Furthermore, many interventions take a one-size-fits-all approach, which overlooks the differences between subgroups of the population, such as gender, which has a significant impact on eating habits. Aim: This study aims to identify avenues to increase healthy eating by accommodating a wider theory-based socio-ecological viewpoint for change. Additionally, the theory-based socio-ecological lens was applied to identify if segments can be revealed, enabling tailored strategies to be developed to better meet the needs of segments. Methods: A male-dominated sample of n = 3044 Australians was sourced through CINT an online consumer panel provider. Participation was anonymous and voluntary, and consent to participate was indicated by the completion of the survey. Results: Three segments were identified with Socio-Economic Index For Individuals, being the most influential variable differentiating the segments. The most socio-economically advantaged segment ( M = 3.7, SD = 0.7) had the highest diet quality score (79.7) while the least advantaged ( M = 0.3, SD = 1.4) scored the lowest (67.1). Conclusion: This study confirms the suitability and usefulness of theory-driven segmentation in the development of eating behaviour programs for Australian adults. More effective interventions are required given overweight and obesity levels among this population are increasing.
Evaluation of potential markers of early infection in patients undergoing elective colorectal malignancy surgery
Authors: Calik Bulent , Calik Sebnem , Yildirim Mehmet , Kamer Erdinç , Tosun Selma , Kavak Selcuk
Published: February 2025

Objectives

We aimed to investigate the value of leukocyte biomarkers and disease scores for the early detection of infection in patients who have undergone elective colorectal surgery for malignancy.

Methods

We conducted a prospective study at a training and research hospital. Patients who developed infection were considered to be an Infection group, and the others were regarded as a Control group. For individuals in both groups, the Sequential Organ Failure Assessment Score (SOFA), quick SOFA, and National Early Warning Score (NEWS) were calculated and blood samples were collected for flow cytometry analysis. A model was developed using logistic regression analysis to identify parameters that were predictive of mortality.

Results

One hundred thirty-two patients were included in the study. Infections developed in 36 (27.3%) of the participants, of which 14 (38.9%) were intra-abdominal, 10 (27.8%) were pneumonia, 8 (22.2%) were superficial incisional infections, and 4 (11.1%) were urinary tract infections. The NEWS was the most effective parameter for the detection of early infection in patients undergoing surgery for colorectal malignancy.

Conclusion

The NEWS score can be easily used to predict infection soon after surgery for colorectal malignancy.
Spatial clusters and temporal trends of cutaneous malignant melanoma mortality in Spain
Authors: Cayuela Lucía , Pereyra-Rodriguez José-Juan , Hernández-Rodríguez Juan-Carlos , Cayuela Aurelio
Published: February 2025

Objective

To analyse time trends in mortality due to cutaneous malignant melanoma (CMM) in Spain between 1980 and 2020, and to identify possible spatial clusters of provinces with an excess risk of CMM mortality during the period 2011–2020.

Methods

Joinpoint regression models were used to assess temporal trends in data from the Spanish National Institute of Statistics. Crude rates, standardized mortality ratio (SMR), smoothed relative risk (RR), and posterior probabilities (PP) of RR >1 during the period 2011–2020 were calculated. The Global Moran I index was used to assess global spatial autocorrelation.

Results

Two time-periods were detected in women: a significant increase during 1980–1994 (annual percent change [APC], 6.5% per year) and rate stabilization during 1994–2020 (nonsignificant APC, −0.17%). A similar pattern was observed in men, with three periods comprising a significant increase during 1980–1985 (APC, 16.59%), a slowing of the increase during 1985–1998 (APC, 4.40%), and stabilization during 1998–2020 (nonsignificant APC, 0.37%). Spatial analysis showed greater spatial heterogeneity with an east-north pattern in men compared with the pattern in women, which tended to be concentrated in north-western areas.

Conclusion

Mortality rates associated with CMM in Spain have remained stable in recent years. There were provincial clusters that exhibited an excess risk of mortality from CMM, with different patterns according to sex.
Relationship between plasma polymyxin B concentrations and acute kidney injury in critically ill elderly patients: Findings from a prospective study
Authors: Zhao Changyun , Mao Wenchao , Ye Feifei , Cai Kailun , Gong Shijin , Ye Cong , Yu Yihua
Published: February 2025

Objective

The objective of this study was to determine the relationship between the plasma polymyxin B concentration and renal function in elderly patients.

Methods

This prospective, case-control, observational study included elderly patients who received polymyxin B therapy and were divided into an acute kidney injury (AKI) group and a non-AKI group based on their renal function. We monitored the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of polymyxin B, including the minimum plasma concentration (Cmin), mean blood drug concentration at steady state (Css,avg), and area under the concentration-time curve across 24 h at steady state (AUCss,24h) in both study groups. The plasma polymyxin concentration was determined using high-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry.

Results

The loading doses, Cmin, Css,avg, and AUCss,24h were significantly higher in the AKI group than in the non-AKI group ( p < 0.05). Receiver-operating characteristic curve analysis showed that the optimal cutoff values for predicting AKI were 2.94 mg/L for Cmin, 4.14 mg/L for Css,avg, and 99.35 mg·h/L for AUCss,24h, with corresponding sensitivities and specificities ranging from 78.57% to 82.14%.

Conclusion

Monitoring plasma polymyxin B concentrations is essential in elderly patients. Keeping the Cmin below 2.94 mg/L, the Css,avg below 4.14 mg/L, and the AUCss,24h below 99.35 mg h/L may help prevent AKI in this population.
Impact of sectorial hemifield occlusions on the motion perception of rotating snake illusion
Authors: Argilés Marc , Mangues-Villar Marina
Published: February 2025

This study investigates the impact of sectorial hemifield occlusions on the perception of the rotating snake illusion, a well-studied optical phenomenon. The rotating snake illusion induces the perception of movement in a static image and has been linked to cortical activation in areas such as hMT+ and MT. Binasal sectorial hemifield occlusions (BNO), which partially obscure the retina, have been explored in relation to mild traumatic brain injury and associated with increased visual evoked potentials. However, the mechanisms by which these occlusions modulate the perception of this illusion remain unclear. This study compared the effects of BNO and bitemporal occlusion (BTO) on the rotating snake illusion. Neurotypical participants rated the illusion's movement on a scale while being exposed to different occlusions. The results revealed that both BNO and BTO affect the perception of movement in the rotating snake illusion relative to baseline, but there was no evidence for a difference between these effects.
Safe Cut: A Modified Orthodontic Ligature Cutter for Holding Cut End of Ligature Wire
Authors: Shami Giti , Roshanaee Abolfazl , Nourian Azin
Published: February 2025

This article introduces a novel instrument designed to enhance patient and clinician safety during orthodontic procedures. By modifying a standard ligature cutter, this new device effectively collects and retains the cut ends of ligature wires, significantly reducing the risk of aspiration.
Evaluation of warfarin dose and INR time in therapeutic range in left ventricular assist device patients with sleeve gastrectomy
Authors: Robertson Stephanie , Weeks Phillip , Chow Elaine , Gulbis Brian , Nathan Sriram , Patarroyo-Aponte Maria , Gregoric Igor , Shah Shinil K , Bajwa Kulvinder S , Kar Biswajit
Published: February 2025

Sleeve gastrectomy is safe and effective in patients with left ventricular assist devices (LVADs) and morbid obesity to improve candidacy for transplantation and increase survival rates. Literature describing warfarin anticoagulation in this population is limited. A single-center, propensity score-matched, retrospective cohort study was conducted to determine if sleeve gastrectomy in LVAD-implanted patients has an effect on warfarin dose requirements in the outpatient setting. Patients were eligible for inclusion if they were 18 years of age or older, underwent LVAD implant at the study center, and were discharged from the hospital on warfarin therapy. They must have at least 8 weeks of available follow-up data post-discharge. Propensity matching was utilized to identify a non-sleeve gastrectomy LVAD-only patients for comparison. A total of 96 LVAD-only patients and 48 LVAD plus sleeve gastrectomy patients were included in the final analysis. Outpatient warfarin requirements increased from baseline over time in both groups, with no significant differences between groups except at month 12, with a mean total weekly dose of 38.1 ± 21.4 mg in the LVAD only group and 46.8 ± 18.6 mg in the LVAD with sleeve gastrectomy group ( p = 0.05). The sleeve gastrectomy group had a significantly lower warfarin doses per kilogram of body weight until month 6 post-discharge. The percent time in therapeutic range was significantly lower in the SG group at the 8 week, 3 month, and 6 month interval time point. There were no significant differences in the incidence of bleeding or thromboembolic events.
Therapeutic drug monitoring and immunogenetic factors associated with the use of adalimumab in Crohn’s disease patients
Authors: Genaro Livia Moreira , Carron Juliana , de Castro Marina Moreira , Franceschini Ana Paula Menezes de Freitas , Lourenço Gustavo Jacob , Cruz Cristiane Kibune Nagasako Vieira da , Reis Glaucia Fernanda Soares Rupert , Pascoal Livia Bitencourt , Mello Juliana Delgado Campos , Pereira Isabela Machado , Nascimento Millene Leal , Oliveira Priscilla De Sene Portel , Corona Ligiana Pires , Ayrizono Maria de Lourdes Setsuko , Lima Carmen Silvia Passos , Leal Raquel Franco
Published: February 2025

Crohn’s disease (CD) involves immune system interactions with intestinal tissue, driven by pro-inflammatory cytokines like Tumor Necrosis Factor (TNF-α). Adalimumab, targeting TNF-α, regulates associated inflammatory responses. Despite being humanized, it may induce immunogenic processes, affecting treatment effectiveness. Thus, monitoring serum adalimumab and anti-drug antibody (ADA) levels can optimize therapy. Understanding genetic factors influencing adalimumab response can enhance personalized treatment and improve patient quality of life. We aimed to quantify adalimumab serum levels, assess test interchangeability, detect ADA, examine immune complex formation, and investigate genetic phenotypes related to immunogenicity in CD patients. Seventy CD patients in the maintenance phase with adalimumab were classified into active (CDA) and remission (CDR) groups. Adalimumab concentration was determined via enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA—Promonitor) and lateral flow assay (Quantum Blue), with assay interchangeability assessed statistically. ADA and immune complex formation were quantified using ELISA assays. DNA was genotyped for the genes ATG16L1, CD96, and CD155. No significant differences in adalimumab serum concentrations were observed between groups, regardless of the assay. However, a statistical difference between the tests indicated measurement disparity ( P = 0.003), with moderate agreement (Lin’s correlation of 0.247). ADA was detected in 4 of 27 of the patients with infratherapeutic levels, 3 in the CDA group and 1 in the CDR group. Analysis of immune complexes revealed significantly higher concentrations in the CDA group ( P = 0.0125). The genotypic evaluation revealed significant associations for the CD96 CC (wild-type) genotype with higher CRP levels, colonic involvement, and infratherapeutic levels of adalimumab. ATG16L1 CC genotype was associated with higher CDEIS and fecal calprotectin values, while the variant (TT) genotype had lower platelet counts. The effectiveness of treatment with adalimumab was not directly related to higher medication levels in this cohort. The disparity between tests indicates the need to use only one test in patient follow-up to ensure accuracy in therapeutic monitoring. Genotypic differences highlight the correlation between the wild genotype for CD96 and ATG16L1 with unfavorable laboratory and endoscopic response to adalimumab. Finally, the more significant levels of immune complexes in the CDA group indicate an association with a worse response to adalimumab.
Florida’s Risk Protection Order Cases and Intimate Partner Violence: A Descriptive Study
Authors: Paruk Jennifer , Christy Annette , Frattaroli Shannon , Zeoli April M.
Published: February 2025

In Florida, risk protection orders (RPOs) allow law enforcement to petition the court to temporarily prohibit firearm purchase and possession by an individual who behaves dangerously and is at risk of engaging in violence against themselves or others. RPOs are also known as extreme RPOs or red flag laws. We collected all ( N = 4,695) Florida RPO cases filed from March 2018 (when the policy was enacted) to June 2020 and coded a random sample ( n = 2,406) to examine how RPOs have been implemented in Florida, a state that has granted substantially more RPO cases than any other state analyzed thus far. The main objectives of this descriptive analysis were to characterize the RPO respondents (those subject to an RPO), the events that led law enforcement to petition for the RPO, and the RPO case outcomes. We specifically explored how respondents were reported to have used or threatened intimate partner violence and whether they had a domestic violence protective order (DVPO) against them. Of Florida’s 67 counties, 59 counties had at least one RPO case, with a high of 731 cases in one county to 35 counties with fewer than 10 RPO cases. In Florida, RPO petitions were filed by law enforcement in response to concerns of suicide and violence against others, with the majority (89%) of final RPO petitions resulting in final RPOs. Twenty-six percent of coded cases included descriptions of threats and uses of violence against an intimate partner, and 20% of these cases with intimate partner violence included that the respondent had a current or previous DVPO. In cases of intimate partner violence, RPOs allow law enforcement to respond quickly to imminent risks of violence and temporarily prevent the purchase and possession of a firearm.
Using Whistleblowers’ Metaphors to Understand why Organizational Wrongdoing Endures
Authors: Richardson Brian K. , Tran Jacinta , James Eric
Published: February 2025

Whistleblowers occupy an advantageous vantage point for understanding “organizational wrongdoing” including factors that facilitate its persistence. The present study analyzed whistleblowers’ metaphors to assess how they made sense of organizational wrongdoing and the cultures of these corrupt organizations. We interviewed 18 whistleblowers in North America, Europe, and Australia, employed in a variety of industries. Interviews surfaced two core metaphors: “wrongdoing as living organism” and “organizational membership as cult-like.” These metaphors illuminated Western democracies’ dependence upon wrongdoing, how whistleblowers are framed as threats to organizations and societies, and how organizations use socialization processes to indoctrinate their employees into accepting wrongdoing. Based upon our findings, we offer theoretical and practical implications addressing organizational wrongdoing and those individuals working to expose it.
Single-Dose Gentamicin vs Standard Care for Treatment of Acute Uncomplicated Cystitis in Premenopausal Women: A Randomized Trial
Authors: Peyko Vincent , Sieger Jacob , Dombroski Joseph
Published: February 2025

Background

Urinary tract infections (UTI) are a disease of serious impact on every country in the world. Growing resistance has decreased the efficacy of many antimicrobial options. Aminoglycosides, like gentamicin, have long been used to treat gram-negative bacteria including UTIs.

Objectives

The goal of this study was to compare single dose gentamicin to standard oral seven-day treatment in the emergency department for uncomplicated cases of acute uncomplicated cystitis in premenopausal women.

Methods

This was a randomized, open-label clinical trial of women at least 18 years of age, that were premenopausal, non-pregnant, with clinical signs of UTI and nitrite positive urine in the emergency department. Patients received either single-dose gentamicin or standard care for 7 days. Patients were contacted by telephone at 7 and 30 days and asked about clinical resolution of their UTI. The primary outcome of this study was symptom resolution at 7 days.

Results

Among those with 7-day telephonic follow-up, self-reported symptom resolution was 83.3% (25/30) among gentamicin treated patients and 48.1% (13/27) in the standard care group (X2 = 7.917, P = .005).

Conclusion

Single-dose gentamicin for acute uncomplicated cystitis in premenopausal, nitrite positive women was an appropriate UTI treatment and more effective than standard care for symptom resolution at 7-days in our patient population. This strategy has the potential to revolutionize treatment by offering an antibiotic with high sensitivities, high efficacy, simple administration in many different healthcare settings, 100% compliance, and increased patient satisfaction for acute cystitis treatment.
Effects of manufacturing direction, heat-treatment and surface operations on fatigue life in additively manufactured metals: An analysis based on statistics and artificial intelligence
Authors: Yaren Mehmet F , John Edward , Susmel Luca
Published: February 2025

This study aimed to establish whether useful fatigue design stress-life curves could be estimated for additively manufactured metals through statistical and machine learning analysis of a large quantity of experimental fatigue data. The study focused on additively manufactured aluminium, steel and titanium. Three manufacturing parameters were considered, namely the manufacturing direction, heat-treatment and surface operations, with the results presented for 0.1 and −1 loading ratios. By gathering experimental data for all parameters, the negative inverse slopes were found to be concentrated between 3 and 6, and the mean endurance limit as a ratio to ultimate tensile strength was 0.18 and 0.21 for 0.1 and −1 loading ratios, respectively, without any statistical analysis. Surface operations were observed to have a significant effect on the fatigue strength of additively manufactured aluminium, steel and titanium regardless of other manufacturing parameters. Multiple linear regression analysis and several machine learning methods (Decision Tree, Support Vector Machines, K-Nearest Neighbour, Multi-Layer Perceptron, Partial Least Squares and Gaussian Process Regression) were used to develop predictive models. The results of these analyses highlight that the conventional approach applied to fatigue of traditional metals does not suffice for additively manufactured metals. While artificial intelligence presents a promising solution, our investigation indicates it is necessary to account for parameters in addition to those considered here such as manufacturing processes, material properties, material microstructure and defects to make reliable fatigue property estimates for additively manufactured metals using machine learning.
Minimizing residual stresses in AISI 1045 steel through optimization of cutting parameters: A particle swarm optimization approach
Authors: Prakash Marimuthu Kalimuthu , Sri Kurumurthy Gudlanarva , Thenarasu Mohanavelu , Venkata Roshan Mannepu
Published: February 2025

This study deals with the effect of machining parameters on residual stresses caused during the end milling of AISI 1045 steel. A new tool insert was used for each trial, and residual stresses were measured on the machined surface after a single pass. From this analysis, it could be found that the increase of residual stresses becomes more tensile in nature because cutting speed and feed rate also go up along with increasing temperatures but compressive stress in cuts that require a larger depth. According to Taguchi's design of experiments, optimized cut parameters will show a decrease in the occurrence of residual stresses. Regression analysis showed that the cutting parameters explained 84% of the residual stress variation, with the feed rate being the most significant parameter ( P-value = 0.004). Optimization was done using particle swarm optimization which resulted in the optimal values which are as follows. A spindle speed of 710 r/min, feed rate, of 80 mm/min, and depth of cut, of 0.2 mm, which leads to a minimum residual stress of 203.73 MPa (compressive). This work can be considered as a framework for the prediction and optimization of machining parameters.
The relative efficiency of staircase and stepped wedge cluster randomised trial designs
Authors: Grantham Kelsey L , Forbes Andrew B , Hooper Richard , Kasza Jessica
Published: February 2025

The stepped wedge design is an appealing longitudinal cluster randomised trial design. However, it places a large burden on participating clusters by requiring all clusters to collect data in all periods of the trial. The staircase design may be a desirable alternative: treatment sequences consist of a limited number of measurement periods before and after the implementation of the intervention. In this article, we explore the relative efficiency of the stepped wedge design to several variants of the ‘basic staircase’ design, which has one control followed by one intervention period in each sequence. We model outcomes using linear mixed models and consider a sampling scheme where each participant is measured once. We first consider a basic staircase design embedded within the stepped wedge design, then basic staircase designs with either more clusters or larger cluster-period sizes, with the same total number of participants and with fewer total participants than the stepped wedge design. The relative efficiency of the designs depends on the intracluster correlation structure, correlation parameters and the trial configuration, including the number of sequences and cluster-period size. For a wide range of realistic trial settings, a basic staircase design will deliver greater statistical power than a stepped wedge design with the same number of participants, and in some cases, with even fewer total participants.
‘Jus viperinum’: Francis Home (1719–1813) and his experiments on the benefits of viper broth in skin disease
Authors: Loganathan Shanghavie , Cooper Max
Published: February 2025

Francis Home (1719–1813) was a Scottish physician and medical author. Here we consider his biography and three brief accounts of experiments on viper (i.e. adder flesh) broth in the treatment of skin disease (‘Herpes or Lepra Gracaeorum’). After a fortnight of treatment one patient was improved but not cured (discontinued due to lack of vipers), one ‘almost cured’ but refused further treatment at ‘disgust’ of discovering its contents, and one dismissed cured. The second case constitutes a basic ‘cross-over’ model as it led to comparison of viper with snail broth in the same patient. Home concluded that viper broth was beneficial for skin disease but his findings did not lead to wider adoption of the treatment. His reported clinical benefits likely arose from improved hydration, protein and cessation of other treatments. Home does not discuss his small sample size or present quantitative outcomes. Home's methods were not influenced by Lind's (1753) methodology for comparing treatments. As both were Edinburgh-trained Scots who served in the British military forces, this reveals the limited communication between clinicians of the day. Home appears to have faced many practical challenges, including accessing vipers, motivating patients’ participation and the risk of concomitant treatment with other drugs.
Masculine Tools and Feminine Tasks: The Dynamic Interplay of Gender and Technology Through System of Rice Intensification
Authors: Sabarmatee  , Prasad C. Shambu , Maat Harro , Glover Dominic
Published: February 2025

Are sustainable transitions in agriculture necessarily women-friendly, or can they also increase gender imbalance? The mutual shaping of gender relations and technologies is an area that has been inadequately studied by sustainability transition scholars. This article investigates how the introduction of the System of Rice Intensification (SRI) affected gender roles in rice cultivation, focusing on weeding practices in three villages in Odisha, India. The introduction of mechanical weeders under SRI led to complex shifts in labour divisions in weeding, traditionally women’s work. Deep-rooted gender relations hindered the reworking of wage and employment norms for men and women involved in weeding. Mechanical weeding did not shift women’s labour uniformly to men’s, while instances of women using mechanical weeders varied across villages, seasons and models. Technology was shaped locally by environmental conditions, sociocultural norms, weeder models, extension institutions and negotiations involving the agency of women. Sustainable transitions in agriculture are not gender-neutral, and they must be carefully integrated to avoid reinforcing existing disparities. The study provides insights into the need to invest in collective experimentation for longer-term societal transformations.
Challenging ‘migration exceptionalism’ in EU anti-discrimination law: enhancing equal access to social rights for third-country national workers
Authors: Baas Henriet
Published: February 2025

Non-EU or ‘third-country national’ workers are increasingly an essential part of the EU workforce. They struggle to obtain full access to social rights on a par with EU citizens, however. This is partly because of the ‘migration exceptionalism’ engrained in EU anti-discrimination law, which largely excludes third-country nationals from protection against discrimination based on nationality and status grounds, such as race and religion. Drawing on EU migration law and recent CJEU jurisprudence, this article demonstrates that in EU anti-discrimination law, similar to international human rights law, migration exceptionalism is not absolute. The article develops legal avenues that make it possible to address cases of discriminatory exclusion of third-country national workers from social rights based on nationality, status grounds and migration status. These avenues help to bridge the protection gap between EU and third-country national workers, and between various categories of the latter.
Assessment of a specialized medicine consultation for pregnant workers: The users’ perspective
Authors: Vonlanthen Julien , Abderhalden-Zellweger Alessia , Renteria Saira-Christine , Moschetti Karine , Brunner Loïc , Wild Pascal , Probst Isabelle , Krief Peggy
Published: February 2025

Background

Occupational exposures can endanger the health of pregnant workers and their unborn children. The Department of Occupational and Environmental Health of Unisanté has established a specialized occupational health consultation to assist pregnant workers, employers and gynecologists in implementing maternity protection provisions in the workplace.

Objective

The study aims to assess the satisfaction of the users of the consultation, describe their overall experience and identify the benefits and limitations of the consultation.

Methods

A mixed-methods approach was used. A telephone questionnaire with both closed and open-ended questions was administered to pregnant workers who had attended the consultation in 2021, as well as to their employers and gynecologists. Quantitative data on users’ satisfaction were statistically analyzed using STATA 17, while responses to open-ended questions were thematically analyzed using MAXQDA20.

Results

All users expressed high levels of satisfaction: 95% of pregnant workers, 88% of employers and 97% of gynecologists were satisfied with the consultation. Users highlighted the value of the consultation in providing insight into the legal framework and occupational risks, as well as the neutrality and support of occupational health physicians. However, they reported challenges in implementing recommended measures and ineffective monitoring of their application.

Conclusions

The study indicates that users are highly satisfied with the services provided by the consultation. It is recommended that these services be maintained and extended to other regions of Switzerland, with particular attention to pregnant women who do not have access to such services in their company.
Safety of Different Weight-Based Dosing Strategies of Intravenous Acyclovir in Obese Patients: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Saad Mohamed Omar , Habib Safeya Omar , Alhomosy Ahmed Mohammed , Salem Islam Mohamed , Hishari Ola Mohamad
Published: February 2025

Background:

In obese patients receiving intravenous (IV) acyclovir, conflicting data exist regarding the risk of acute kidney injury (AKI) with different weight-based dosing strategies: total body weight (TBW), adjusted body weight (AdjBW), and ideal body weight (IBW).

Objective:

We aimed to compare the safety of the 3 dosing strategies in obese patients.

Methods:

A retrospective cohort study including obese patients who received IV acyclovir during their inpatient admissions. Patients were categorized into TBW, AdjBW, or IBW groups based on the received doses. The primary outcome was the incidence of AKI. Other outcomes included the need for renal replacement therapy (RRT), neurotoxicity, length of stay (LOS), and in-hospital mortality.

Results:

A total of 339 patients were included: 196 patients in TBW group, 86 patients in AdjBW group, and 57 patients in IBW group. The AKI developed in 17.3%, 11.6%, and 7% of TBW, AdjBW and IBW groups, respectively. After adjustment for confounders, reduced dosing (AdjBW or IBW) was associated with fewer AKI compared with TBW dosing (adjusted odds ratio (aOR) [95% CI] = 0.39 [0.19, 0.82]). Compared with TBW, IBW was associated with fewer AKI (aOR [95% CI] = 0.27 [0.08, 0.85]), but AdjBW was not (aOR [95% CI] = 0.48 [0.21, 1.09]). Median LOS was numerically longer with IBW but was not significantly different from other groups. The need for RRT, neurotoxicity, and mortality did not differ between groups.

Conclusion and Relevance:

In obese patients, either AdjBW or IBW dosing of IV acyclovir appears to be safer than TBW. The IBW dosing had the lowest odds of AKI among the 3 dosing strategies.
Optimization of solar and wind power plants production through a parallel fusion approach with modified hybrid machine and deep learning models
Authors: Abubakar Muhammad , Che Yanbo , Zafar Ahsan , Al-Khasawneh Mahmoud Ahmad , Bhutta Muhammad Shoaib
Published: February 2025

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is becoming increasingly indispensable across diverse domains as technology rapidly advances. As traditional energy sources dwindle, there's a noticeable pivot towards renewable energy sources (RES). However, to effectively meet energy demands, integrating these RES into smart grids to bolster efficiency is imperative. Despite the transition, ongoing technical challenges persist, specifically in accurately predicting and optimizing smart grid parameters. To tackle these hurdles and enhance smart grid efficiency, various AI techniques are being harnessed. This study leverages real-time energy generation data (MWh) from solar and wind plants over a year, dependent on parameters such as POA and wind speed, respectively. Prediction outcomes are derived using three machine learning (ML) models (XGBoost, CatBoost, and LightGBM) and three deep learning (DL) models (LSTM, BiLSTM, and GRU). From these individual models, two hybrid ML and DL models are developed, yielding promising results. Subsequently, these outcomes are further refined through a parallel fusion approach (PFA), resulting in heightened accuracy and reliability. The implementation of this technique notably reduces error rates to 15.05% for hybrid ML, 19.18% for hybrid DL, and 8.1432% for PFA. This methodology holds substantial potential for future research endeavors, supplementing existing AI models for enhanced efficiency.
Co-Development of Technology for Measuring Faecal Contamination of Drinking Water
Authors: Koutsoumpeli Eleni , Ashton Rhys , Hunter David , Walker Hannah , Chowdhury Kaniz , Vorbach Daniel , Ensor Jonathan , Moir James WB , Johnson Steven
Published: February 2025

Participatory approaches to innovation aim to address persistent failures of technology to respond to end-user needs and context. Here, we present the results of a transdisciplinary project aimed at co-developing technology for water quality monitoring in developing countries. Drawing from social science, we developed and implemented a suite of approaches to engage community members and regional stakeholders in the innovation process. Part of our engagement activities involved sampling and molecular analysis of drinking water sources from two communities on the island of Efate in Vanuatu. The results revealed evidence for temporal variations in faecal contamination from different sources. This analysis was used to frame discussions about microbial contamination, water quality and health, which, along with other structured conversations, led to technical and institutional specifications for water quality sensing. Informed by these specifications, a device for monitoring colorimetric changes in response to microbial growth was designed and built. This device was able to quantify growth of faecal coliform indicator species Escherichia coli inoculated into sterile media and could detect E. coli inoculated into sterilised river water and naturally occurring E. coli in raw river water samples. The limit of detection was a single E. coli cell in 100 mL of liquid.
Combining ultrasound gray scale ratio and BI-RADS grading for differentiating benign and malignant breast masses
Authors: Wang Pan , Wang Fu-Jian , Xiao Li-Hua , Huang Zuo-Bin
Published: February 2025

Background

The evaluation of breast mass echo in the breast imaging reporting and data system (BI-RADS) is subjective, whereas ultrasound grayscale ratio (UGSR) provides a quantitative measure of ultrasound echo intensity. The purpose of this study is to investigate the value of UGSR, in conjunction with BI-RADS, for distinguishing between benign and malignant breast masses.

Methods

A retrospective analysis was conducted on ultrasound imaging data from 179 malignant breast mass cases and 219 benign breast mass cases. The masses were categorized according to the BI-RADS grading standard, and the grayscale values of the masses, adjacent fat lobules, and mammary glands were measured using the RADinfo system. The f-UGSR (ratio of ultrasound grayscale of mass to ultrasound grayscale of fat lobule) and g-UGSR (ratio of ultrasound grayscale of mass to ultrasound grayscale of gland) were calculated. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was constructed, optimal thresholds for f-UGSR and g-UGSR were determined, and the diagnostic efficacy of the combination of f-UGSR, g-UGSR and BI-RADS grading was assessed.

Results

The f-UGSR for malignant and benign breast masses were 0.57 ± 0.20 and 0.85 ± 0.23, respectively, while the g-UGSR were 0.23 (0.18, 0.30) and 0.38 (0.30, 0.47) respectively. The area under the ROC curve (AUC) for f-UGSR and g-UGSR in the diagnosis of breast malignant masses were 0.819 and 0.823, respectively, with the optimal thresholds of 0.69 and 0.29, respectively. The AUC for BI-RADS, g-UGSR, and their combination in the diagnosis of breast malignant masses were 0.849, 0.823, and 0.821, respectively. Sensitivity rates were approximately 74.30%, 73.74%, and 89.39%, and specificity rates were 95.43%, 77.17%, and 74.89%, respectively.

Conclusion

UGSR provides an objective and accurate method to evaluate the benign or malignant nature of breast masses. Combining UGSR with BI-RADS enhances sensitivity, reduces the missed diagnosis rate, and improves confidence in distinguishing between benign and malignant breast masses.