bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Advancing Neurological Disease Prediction through Machine Learning Techniques
Authors: Shariar Islam Saimon  , Intiser Islam  , Shake Ibna Abir  , Nigar Sultana  , Md Sanjit Hossain  , Sarder Abdulla Al Shiam
Published: February 2025

Late prediction is a major health problem for neurological diseases and early prediction is essential to advance patient outcomes and allow timely intervention. Machine learning (ML) advances are enabling doctors to more efficiently and innovatively predict the onset of neurological conditions using complex biomedical data. In this study the assessment of the power of different ML algorithms to predict Parkinson’s disease, epilepsy, and multiple sclerosis is done to evaluate the relative performance and practical applications. In order to determine the effectiveness of ML techniques, a comprehensive review was done on the various ML techniques e.g. decision trees, k-nearest neighbors (KNN) and ensemble methods. Furthermore, the study validates the predictive capabilities of these approaches, using the Gradient Boosting and Support Vector Machines (SVM) for a case study on EEG and for EEG and clinical datasets. The models were evaluated and compared with respect to known key performance metrics such as accuracy, sensitivity and specificity. Results showed that Gradient Boosting performed best, and with an accuracy of 89% it could predict Parkinson’s earlier on in its first stages. In detecting seizure activity, KNN was very successful accounting for an accuracy of 85%, making it a useful tool for epilepsy diagnosis. The study demonstrated robust generalizability across diverse datasets with ensemble methods, broadly applicable to wider populations for neurological disease prediction. Finally, the study demonstrates that machine learning provides a highly flexible and efficient paradigm for making predictions of neurological disease, with potential for early diagnosis and intervention. The results suggest that ML can be a powerful tool to analyze very complex biomedical data, and in turn develop diagnostic tools targeted towards certain neurological disorders. The integration of ML models with real time clinical systems, and the extension of this to other diseases will further improve diagnostic precision and access in clinical practice.
Investigation of Boosting DC-DC Converter by Numerical Experiment
Authors: Soroka Kostiantyn , Kharchenko Victor , Kostenko Ivan
Published: February 2025

The physical processes of the operation of a pulse boosting DC-DC converter of electrical energy are considered. A computer model of a step-by-step conversion of energy: a power source into magnetic field energy, magnetic field energy into electric field energy and its accumulation by a capacitor at increased voltage was created. The converter works in the mode of pulse-width regulation. Energy conversion processes are described by equations reduced to the Cauchy form. The computer model is built in the application package Simulink, MatLab. DC-DC modelling involves calculating each pulse, storing the results, and transmitting it to the beginning of the next pulse. The described modelling algorithm, at the operating frequencies of the DC-DC converter, imposes increased requirements on the speed of the computer and the amount of its memory. The modelling program was carried out for t = 10 s at a frequency of 100 kHz, more than six hours tm > 6 hours. Using such a model for research is not effective. A method was found for modelling at lower frequencies and transferring their results to the frequencies of the converters. Modelling was carried out at frequencies of 1 kHz and the adequacy of the results of the converters at higher frequencies was confirmed.
The duration of the experiment is reduced to 30 seconds, which provides convenient modelling conditions
Gangguan Keseimbangan Akibat Penyakit Dekompresi
Authors: Kholida Baiq Hilya , Hunaifi Ilsa , Lestari Diayanti Tenti , Kurniawan Theophany Margareta , Annisa Wardha Novia , Agistany Nur Feby Febiana , Wiracakra I Gusti Lanang Krisna
Published: February 2025

Latar belakang: Decompression Sickness (DCS) adalah penyakit multisistem disebabkan oleh gelembung gas terlarut yang terbentuk dalam darah dan jaringan selama atau pasca penurunan tekanan lingkungan mendadak.
Isi: Insiden DCS jarang terjadi, hanya sekitar 3 kasus per 10.000 penyelaman. Insidennya meningkat pada nelayan penyelam tradisional. Inner Ear Barotrauma (IEB) merupakan suatu kerusakan jaringan fisik yang terjadi akibat ketidakseimbangan antara tekanan udara pada ruang telinga tengah dan telinga dalam. Alternobaric vertigo (AV) merupakan suatu kondisi kejadian vertigo sementara yang biasanya akan berkembang saat naik atau melakukan manuver valsava. Faktor risiko lainya pada AV meliputi paparan kebisingan saat melakukan penyelaman. Review ini menggunakan Inner Ear Disorders in SCUBA Divers: A Review sebagai panduan dalam menyusun artikel. Penelusuran menggunakan Google Scholar, Pubmed, dan Plos One.
Kesimpulan: Decompression Sickness (DCS) dapat menyebabkan Gangguan keseimbangan pada IEB, Inner Ear Decompression Sickness, dan AV.
Pengaruh Infeksi Ascaris Lumbricoides terhadap Status Gizi pada Anak Usia 6-12 Tahun
Authors: Fattah Nurfachanti , Mulyadi Farah Ekawati , Al Qindy Syech Muh. , Safitri Asrini , Esa Darussalam Andi Husni
Published: February 2025

Latar belakang: Ascaris lumbricoides merupakan nematoda usus atau cacing usus yang tertular melalui tanah yang menyebabkan penyakit Ascariasis. Infeksi kecacingan menyebabkan malabsorpsi dengan menghalangi daerah penyerapan mukosa usus halus, dimana status gizi merupakan ukuran seberapa baik kebutuhan gizi terpenuhi sebagai hasil keseimbangan antara kebutuhan dan masukan gizi. Infeksi kecacingan merupakan salah satu gangguan infeksi yang dapat mengakibatkan malnutrisi.
Metode: Penelitian ini menggunakan desain analitik observasional dengan pendekatan cross-sectional. Sampel penelitian adalah anak usia 6-12 tahun di wilayah kerja Puskesmas Tabaringan Makassar, yang ditentukan berdasarkan kriteria inklusi dan eksklusi. Analisis dilakukan dengan uji chi square Fisher’s Exact Test.
Hasil: Penelitian dilakukan dengan jumlah sampel 55 anak, 8 anak (14,5%) positif terinfeksi Ascaris lumbricoides, dan 47 anak (85,5%) negatif. Di antara yang positif, 5 anak (62,5%) memiliki status gizi kurang; sementara dari yang negatif, 2 anak (25%) menunjukkan status gizi buruk.
Kesimpulan: Terdapat pengaruh infeksi Ascaris lumbricoides terhadap status  gizi pada anak usia 6-12 tahun.
Вивчення взаємодії між стратегіями підвищення довговічності елементів нафтогазового обладнання та оптимальними практиками керування проєктами
Authors: Данилюк Н.Я. , Артим В.І.
Published: February 2025

Наукова стаття присвячена комплексному дослідженню взаємодії між стратегіями підвищення довговічності елементів нафтогазового обладнання та оптимальними практиками керування проєктами в нафтогазовій галузі. У сучасних умовах експлуатації нафтогазових систем постає необхідність у розробці й впровадженні інноваційних підходів, що забезпечують високу технічну надійність і довговічність елементів, водночас враховуючи зростаючі вимоги до ефективності керування проєктами. Основним фокусом статті є детальний аналіз впливу ефективного керування проєктами на технічну надійність, тривалість служби та загальну ефективність експлуатації елементів нафтогазового обладнання. В ході дослідження особлива увага приділяється розгляду стратегій, які сприяють тісній та продуктивній співпраці між інженерними командами та менеджерами проєктів. Така співпраця є ключовим фактором у досягненні оптимального балансу між технічними та управлінськими аспектами, що забезпечує успішне виконання нафтогазових проєктів у встановлені строки з дотриманням високих стандартів якості. Стаття охоплює ключові аспекти інтегрованого керування проєктами, зокрема стратегії комунікації, технічну інтеграцію та стратегічне керування, що дозволяють забезпечити максимально ефективне використання ресурсів. Аналіз проводиться на основі сучасних тенденцій у сфері керування проєктами та інженерної практики, з використанням прикладів успішно реалізованих проєктів у нафтогазовій індустрії. Це включає вивчення новітніх технологічних рішень та підходів, які довели свою ефективність у реальних умовах експлуатації. Результати дослідження можуть бути використані для розробки нових підходів та рекомендацій у сфері керування проєктами, що сприятимуть підвищенню технічної довговічності нафтогазового обладнання, а також загальної ефективності та сталості проєктів. Отримані висновки та пропозиції можуть служити основою для впровадження нових стратегій у практичну діяльність нафтогазових компаній, що дозволить підвищити рівень надійності та економічної ефективності їхніх інженерних рішень, а також забезпечити тривале й безперебійне функціонування обладнання в суворих умовах експлуатації.
Public Policy and the Political Participation of Individuals with Neurodevelopmental Disorders: Examining Legislative Frameworks and Civic Engagement Across Different Countries
Authors: Tolika Maria , Tsirikas Athanasios
Published: February 2025

This paper analyzes how public policy influences the political participation of individuals with neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs)dyslexia, ADHD, and ASD in 30 countries. Applying a quantitative lens, it examines data from 459 participants, including government officials and neurodivergent communities, to assess the accessibility of legislative structures, elections, and advocacy work. Systemic barriers remain, ranging from a lack of adequate voting accommodations to a lack of political representation to societal stigma, limiting full political access, the findings show. Conversely, countries with strict laws to protect the rights of neurodivergent people tend to have them vote—and be represented in political institutions—in much higher numbers than those without such protections or targeted reforms in place. While some have moved, the paper highlights the need for continued policy action, stricter enforcement mechanisms and civic initiatives to expand political participation. In summary, it emphasizes the global inequalities in political accessibility and advocates for more inclusive policies.
Economic Voting or Class Voting? An Analysis of the Factors Driving Incumbent Vote Choice
Authors: Stancea Andreea , Ciocirlan Cecilia , Cojocaru Rebeca , Gilca Daniela
Published: February 2025

This paper examines the relationship between social class, economic perceptions, and their influence on voting behavior, particularly regarding support for incumbents. Leveraging political science research, it investigates how distinct economic experiences and challenges across social classes shape perceptions of the economy and incumbent policies, influencing electoral choices. The paper seeks to answer three critical questions: the impact of economic perceptions on voting for the incumbent, the interaction between social class and economic perceptions on voting behavior, and how social class moderates this relationship. Utilizing logistic regression models, the research highlights how social class and economic perceptions interact to influence voting decisions, contributing to the discourse on class voting's impact. The findings offer new insights into the dynamics of voting behavior, emphasizing the enduring importance of social class in political decision-making, and enriching our understanding of electoral dynamics in incumbent elections.
The Political Economy of the Gifts on Tiktok
Authors: Cristea Cristina-Oana
Published: February 2025

TikTok is a social platform that has become a significant social phenomenon characterized by its complexity. It is a multifaceted object of study, allowing research on various topics such as security and surveillance, algorithms and addiction, and communication and online interactions. However, the practice of giving on TikTok remains under-researched by social sciences. Therefore, the main objective of this article is to understand the practice of giving to discover how it structures the economy of attention. The data obtained were generated through digital ethnography, which involved several qualitative research methods and techniques: participatory and non-participatory observation and conducting semi-structured interviews. Data analysis revealed that virtual gifts must be understood in their dual manifestation: they are the means by which the virtual self is both subjectified and objectified by the platform. First, they contribute to the construction of the influencers' self because they reflect the appreciation and attention received from users, thus enhancing their social reputation. Secondly, the platform monitors and calculates the gifts obtained by influencers to remunerate them, acting like a real bureaucracy that classifies and ranks users according to their actions. The research results suggest that the virtual gifts should be understood as a manifestation of the economy of attention, through which the work of influencers is rewarded based on the attention and dedication they gain from others. The work of the influencer is based on the monetization of the self, and its transformation into an object of free consumption within an economic system centered on the attention of others, a perishable resource that must be constantly attracted.
In memoriam Professor Ioan Dragan (22.08.1931-05.12.2024)
Authors: Mitulescu Sorin
Published: February 2025

Professor Ioan Drăgan was the head of the sociology department at the University of Bucharest (1974-1978) and director of the Center for Sociological Research (1974-1990) and then of the Institute of Sociology of the Romanian Academy (1990-1997). He has taught courses in general sociology and sociology of public opinion at the Sociology Department since the 70s. Together with Ion Aluaș, he edited the monumental anthology of contemporary French sociology (1971) and after 1990 he published numerous works in the field of mass communication.
In Search for the Perfect Romanian. National Specificity, Racial Degeneration and Social Selection in Modern Romania, Iași, Polirom Publishing House, 2024. Marius Turda
Authors: Furtună Adrian-Nicolae
Published: February 2025

Through In Search for the Perfect Romanian. National Specificity, Racial Degeneration and Social Selection in Modern Romania [În căutarea românului perfect. Specific național, degenerare rasială și selecție socială în România modernă], Marius Turda proposes a new method to understand and explain the foundations of Romanian nationalism between 1880 and 1950. Structured in six chapters, the book shows that in Romania there was a eugenic and biopolitical culture that was to define Romanian nationalism and scientific racism. Its extreme forms materialized in the measures taken against Jews and Roma during the Holocaust in Romania. I review the book from the perspective of social memory. By questioning some present-day commemorative practices I highlight the present legacies of eugenics: schools named after strategists of racism, such as Sabin Manuilă; public commemorations of anti-Semites such as Liviu Stan or Nicolae Paulescu.
Network Usage and Time Efficient Performance Enhancement Model for IoT Applications in Fog Cloud Computing
Authors: Arora Upma , Singh Nipur
Published: February 2025

Fog computing bridges IoT applications and cloud computing, providing low latency services through local computation and storage. Despite its advantages, challenges such as efficient scheduling and placement of IoT applications on fog cloud nodes hinder its widespread adoption. This manuscript presents a Performance Enhancement Algorithm for scheduling IoT applications in a fog cloud environment. The algorithm comprises four key procedures that schedule application modules across the available infrastructure devices. Merge sort along with the heterogeneous shortest module first strategy is used in fusion as the key to improve the performance. The effectiveness of this proposed algorithm was evaluated using the iFogSim simulator and the results demonstrate significant improvements, with total network usage improvement of 66.31% over HSMF, 88.40% over edge-wards, and 98.66% over the cloud-only method. Also, it improves the execution time significantly in most network configurations. Our research contributes to providing a very reliable means for placing applications in the fog-cloud infrastructure as our fusion algorithm makes it a very stable and scalable for CPU bound tasks in fog and cloud computing environment.
Failure Probability Analysis of Coherent Systems using
Intuitionistic Fuzzy Fault Tree Approach
Authors: Kumar Mintu , Singh S. B. , Manglik Monika
Published: February 2025

In scenarios where system component failure probabilities are insufficient or imprecise, classical fault tree analysis methods often fail in providing precise assessments of system reliability and safety. This limitation arises because classical fault tree analysis relies on precise data and probabilistic measures, which may not adequately capture inherent uncertainties and vagueness in real-world environments. Therefore, a general approach is required to reliably predict and diagnose system failures that incorporates the uncertainties inherent in failure data. The fuzzy sets effectively manage imprecise information and serve as a robust foundation to address ambiguity in real-world failure scenarios. Additionally, the use of intuitionistic fuzzy sets further enhances this framework by considering both membership and non-membership degrees, thereby providing a more comprehensive and precise reliability assessment. Therefore, in the current study, the intuitionistic fuzzy set theory is proposed to handle the inherent uncertainty in reliability assessments. Furthermore, triangular intuitionistic fuzzy numbers are used to represent the failure probabilities of the system components. The proposed method integrates intuitionistic fuzzy set theory with fault tree analysis to determine the reliability and failure probability of a rope on a crane, and the computed results are compared with the results of existing methods.
Impact of COVID-19 vaccination on tinnitus onset and severity: a comprehensive survey study
Authors: Yellamsetty Anusha , Etu Egbe-Etu , Bao Shaowen
Published: February 2025

Purpose

The primary objective of this study was to investigate the prevalence and characteristics of tinnitus related to COVID-19 vaccination. Specifically, we aimed to assess the impact of COVID-19 vaccination on the onset and severity of tinnitus, including changes in loudness, pitch, anxiety, and speech perception. Additionally, we sought to identify potential risk factors associated with new-onset tinnitus and the exacerbation of pre-existing symptoms.

Design

A comprehensive survey was administered to 372 individuals who reported new-onset tinnitus or worsening of pre-existing tinnitus following COVID-19 vaccination. Data on tinnitus characteristics before and after COVID-19 vaccination were collected. The survey documented pre-existing medical conditions, and changes in tinnitus loudness, pitch, and related anxiety. Respondents were divided into two groups: those with pre-existing tinnitus and those with new-onset tinnitus following vaccination. Statistical analyses were conducted to compare changes across these groups and to explore associations with vaccine type (mRNA vs. non-mRNA) and pre-existing medical conditions.

Results

Of the respondents, 53% with pre-existing tinnitus reported worsened symptoms following vaccination, with significant increases in loudness, pitch, and anxiety. Additionally, 47% of respondents developed new-onset tinnitus, with this group reporting higher severity and anxiety levels compared to those with pre-existing tinnitus. There was no significant difference in tinnitus onset latency between mRNA vaccines (Pfizer and Moderna) and non-mRNA vaccines (Johnson & Johnson). Pandemic-related anxiety was identified as a contributing factor to the exacerbation of tinnitus symptoms.

Conclusions

The results indicate that COVID-19 vaccination is associated with an increased risk of both new-onset tinnitus and worsening pre-existing tinnitus. Significant increases in tinnitus loudness, pitch, and anxiety post-vaccination, along with challenges in speech perception, emphasize the need for further research into the auditory effects of COVID-19 vaccination. Identifying risk factors, such as underlying health conditions and psychological stress, will be crucial in developing strategies for the management and treatment of tinnitus in vaccinated individuals.
Assessing low-back loading during lifting using personalized electromyography-driven trunk models and NIOSH-based risk levels
Authors: Refai Mohamed Irfan , Varrecchia Tiwana , Chini Giorgia , Ranavolo Alberto , Sartori Massimo
Published: February 2025

Workplace injury risk due to physically demanding tasks (e.g., repeated lifting) is currently assessed using ergonomic guidelines. The Revised NIOSH Lifting Equation (RNLE) is a commonly used approach that assesses risk of low-back loading during different lifting tasks. Advances in musculoskeletal models have enabled the estimation of physiologically valid person-specific musculoskeletal models (pEMS) driven by surface electromyography and joint angle information. These models offer realistic estimates of objective parameters such as moments and compressive and shear loads at the lumbosacral joint. In this study, we applied both techniques (RNLE and pEMS) to assess risk and low-back loading in seven healthy participants performing lifting tasks at different risk levels. We found that the pEMS estimated objective parameters of low-back loading in line with the different risk levels proposed by RNLE. However, the low-back compressive and shear loads were higher than the limits proposed by the RNLE. Moreover, we show that the lumbosacral compressive loads can be a better parameter to demarcate risk levels. We recommend performing this assessment on a larger and diverse population for evaluation of personalized risk levels across lifting tasks in the industry. These approaches can be implemented with wearable sensorized garments to monitor personalized musculoskeletal health unobtrusively in the workplace providing us a better insight into possibility of individual risk.
Recent research progress on metal ions and metal-based nanomaterials in tumor therapy
Authors: Xu Yongcheng , Reheman Aikebaier , Feng Wenhua
Published: February 2025

Tumors, as a disease that seriously threatens human health, have always been a major challenge in the field of medicine. Currently, the main methods of tumor treatment include surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, etc., but these traditional treatment methods often have certain limitations. In addition, tumor recurrence and metastasis are also difficult problems faced in clinical treatment. In this context, the importance of metal-based nanomaterials in tumor therapy is increasingly highlighted. Metal-based nanomaterials possess unique physical, chemical, and biological properties, providing new ideas and methods for tumor treatment. Metal-based nanomaterials can achieve targeted therapy for tumors through various mechanisms, reducing damage to normal tissues; they can also serve as drug carriers, improving the stability and bioavailability of drugs; at the same time, some metal-based nanomaterials also have photothermal, photodynamic, and other characteristics, which can be used for phototherapy of tumors. This review examines the latest advances in the application of metal-based nanomaterials in tumor therapy within past 5 years, and presents prospective insights into the future applications.
Mortality risk prediction model in AIDS patients with pneumocystis pneumonia in China
Authors: Wang Xi , Liu Letian , Wang Wen , Zhang Yang , Chen Hui , Wang Zhangli , Li Jianwei , Gao Yue , Huang Yanqun , Sun Lijun , Zhang Tong , Li Aixin
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Pneumocystis pneumonia (PCP) is a common and serious complication of HIV/AIDS, with a higher prevalence in patients not receiving antiretroviral therapy. Due to the high mortality rate of PCP, accurate prediction of its case fatality rate is very important for clinical treatment. We aimed to develop a risk model for the near-term prognosis of people with HIV/AIDS and PCP and verify its effectiveness.

Methods

This single-center, retrospective observational study was conducted at Beijing Youan Hospital from January 2012 to October 2022. 972 AIDS patients with Pneumocystis pneumonia met our criteria were recruited. The patients were divided into death group and survival group according to clinical outcome during hospitalization. Data of the two groups were collected including general information and laboratory test results. 53 medical characteristics of the two groups were collected. Prediction variables were screened with Multivariate logistic regression analysis and Lasso regression model. We used ROC curve to identify the discrimination of training and testing data sets. The Shapley Additive exPlanation (SHAP) method was applied to explain the final model and the weights of features.

Results

The overall mortality rate among hospitalized patients was 17.8%. We found that the best prediction effect can be obtained when ALB, PO2, TBIL, LDH, CD4+ T lymphocyte counts are incorporated into the PCP risk prediction model. The model had a perfect discrimination with AUC of 0.994 and 0.947 in training and validation cohorts. The prognosis risk grade was divided into three grades: low-risk group (0-25 points with mortality of 5.9%), moderate-risk group (25-50 points with mortality of 45.1%) and high-risk group (above 50 points with mortality of 80%). There is a statistically significant difference in mortality among these three grades (χ2 = 419.271, P<0.001).

Conclusion

We developed and validated a model of the prognostic risk level of PCP in patients of AIDS with the results of blood tests reviewed by patients at routine visits. The model is more convenient to use, allowing clinicians to obtain a determined probability value of PCP mortality with simple calculations within the first 72 hours of the patient’s admission.
The Eastern Mediterranean Sea mean sea level decadal slowdown: the effects of the water budget
Authors: Borile Federica , Pinardi Nadia , Lyubartsev Vladyslav , Ghani Mahmud Hasan , Navarra Antonio , Alessandri Jacopo , Clementi Emanuela , Coppini Giovanni , Mentaschi Lorenzo , Verri Giorgia , da Costa Vladimir Santos , Scoccimarro Enrico , Misurale Francesco , Novellino Antonio , Oddo Paolo
Published: February 2025

This paper analyses the decadal variability of the Mean Sea Level (MSL) trend for the Mediterranean Sea and three subregions using a combination of satellite altimetry, tide gauges and reanalyses datasets for the past 30 years (1993–2022). These estimates indicate a decadal variability of the MSL across the analysed period, and a trend slowdown in the 2013–2022 decade compared to previous periods. While the overall trend remains positive across the Mediterranean basin, regional differences are evident. The Western Mediterranean shows an accelerating trend, consistent with global sea level rise, while the Eastern Mediterranean has experienced a decadal slowdown, particularly in the semi-enclosed Adriatic and Aegean Seas, where negative trends are observed. This slowdown is attributed to the combined effects of changes in the water cycle and the balancing of thermal and haline steric components. A key driver of this trend is increased evaporation, which is not offset by precipitation, runoff, or transport through the Straits. These results underscore the significance of the Mediterranean’s water budget in influencing sea level trends and highlight the complexity of modelling and interpreting decadal sea level changes. The findings suggest that continued monitoring and a better understanding of regional water budgets are crucial for refining future projections and developing effective climate adaptation strategies for the Mediterranean coastal areas.
Trusting AI: does uncertainty visualization affect decision-making?
Authors: Reyes Jonatan , Batmaz Anil Ufuk , Kersten-Oertel Marta
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Decision-making based on AI can be challenging, especially when considering the uncertainty associated with AI predictions. Visualizing uncertainty in AI refers to techniques that use visual cues to represent the level of confidence or uncertainty in an AI model's outputs, such as predictions or decisions. This study aims to investigate the impact of visualizing uncertainty on decision-making and trust in AI.

Methods

We conducted a user study with 147 participants, utilizing static classic gaming scenarios as a proxy for human-AI collaboration in decision-making. The study measured changes in decisions, trust in AI, and decision-making confidence when uncertainty was visualized in a continuous format compared to a binary output of the AI model.

Results

Our findings indicate that visualizing uncertainty significantly enhances trust in AI for 58% of participants with negative attitudes toward AI. Additionally, 31% of these participants found uncertainty visualization to be useful. The size of the uncertainty visualization was identified as the method that had the most impact on participants' trust in AI and their confidence in their decisions. Furthermore, we observed a strong association between participants' gaming experience and changes in decision-making when uncertainty was visualized, as well as a strong link between trust in AI and individual attitudes toward AI.

Discussion

These results suggest that visualizing uncertainty can improve trust in AI, particularly among individuals with negative attitudes toward AI. The findings also have important implications for the design of human-AI decision-support systems, offering insights into how uncertainty can be visualized to enhance decision-making and user confidence.
Case Report: Staged surgical management in ESRD: off-pump CABG followed by renal transplantation to enhance graft survival
Authors: Çetinarslan Özge , Saba Davit
Published: February 2025

Patients with end-stage renal disease face a significantly higher risk of cardiovascular diseases. For patients who are candidates for renal transplantation (RT), major surgeries such as coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) are associated with cardiac complications as well as higher rates of post-operative complications, including the need for large amounts of blood transfusion, worsening kidney function, infection, and graft rejection. Studies have shown that blood transfusions can increase the risk of graft rejection due to immune system activation. Off-pump CABG (OPCAB), also known as beating heart surgery, is a technique in which a heart–lung machine is not used, and the heart continues to beat throughout the procedure. The main advantage of OPCAB surgery compared to on-pump CABG (ONCAB) is that it requires fewer blood product transfusions and has fewer renal, pulmonary, and hematological complications. This case series uniquely discusses two patients who underwent successful beating heart CABG without blood transfusion, followed by RT.
Wi-Fi/LoRa communication systems for fire and seismic-risk mitigation and health monitoring
Authors: Sánchez del Río Sáez José , Aragonés Víctor , Sánchez Villaluenga Tomás , Davila-Gomez L. , Paramio Martínez Sofía , Vázquez-López Antonio , Ballesteros Yolanda , Martínez Vanesa , Jiménez José Luis , Yusuf Abdulmalik , Li Xiaolu , Ao Xiang , Xiu Jie , Wang De-Yi
Published: February 2025

This article summarizes the work performed by the authors in developing, during the last 2 years, several portable and wireless sensor systems that allowed the analysis of signals collected from multiple sensors based on the Internet of Things (IoT) in emergency contexts. These include fires and earthquakes, situations in which citizens suffer from poor health; participation of individuals in highly physical sports; or cases of materials used in buildings and other structures being subjected to high stress due to natural catastrophes other than the aforementioned fires and earthquakes. Novel material sensors like MXene paper or wallpaper-based ones used as fire detectors and operating remotely via Wi-Fi and LoRa are presented. Furthermore, a Wi-Fi communication system, physically connected to a commercial micro-controller, monitored the temperature and luminosity data. Other devices, such as IoT wireless systems operating under the LoRa protocol in the 868-MHz and 2.4-GHz band region and using RFM95 radio modules as possible risk advisers, are described. For the latter, the sensors integrated were triboelectric energy nanogenerators (TENGs). In addition, TENG smart masks with LoRa emitters were used and played an important role in risk mitigation. As novel systems, an STM32 LoRa board allowed monitoring of the health (heart rate and oxygen saturation) of athletes involved in combat sports, with a nano-IoT Arduino 33 chip being used for monitoring the electrical resistance change in some composite materials. Some of these developments, especially the previously mentioned one, can play an important role in structural health monitoring (SHM) by examining the mechanical properties during service operations in aviation or aerospace fields. A comparison of these systems allowed them to be classified according to the most fitting application.
A patient-centered interactive voice response system for supporting self-management in kidney transplantation: design and field testing
Authors: Ganjali Raheleh , Ghorban Sabbagh Mahin , Eslami Saeid
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Self-management is the ability to control one's own responses to treatments, physical and psychological side effects, and lifestyle choices related to a chronic condition.

Purpose

To describe the development of a standard and practical user-centered design process for an interactive voice response system (IVRS) to improve self-management in kidney transplant (KT) recipients.

Methods

The IVRS was constructed utilizing the four phases of the Center for eHealth and Wellbeing Research (CeHRes) roadmap: the contextual inquiry, the value specification, the design phase, and evaluation. First, a literature review, background analysis, and needs assessment were used to identify the needs and problems and solutions related to self-management of KT recipients. Then, with the help of a team of experts and KT recipients, a logic model was created and evaluated. The IVRS was developed through iterative design development in response to these findings. Finally, fifteen end users (KT beneficiaries and health professionals) participated in a usability field test by completing a thinking -aloud test and a questionnaire based on the System Usability Scale (SUS).

Results

The review study indicates the necessary of self-management education and the potential outcomes and functionalities of information technology intervention. The situation analysis and needs assessment led to the final important requirements for the design of the intervention. All values were identified in three meetings with principal stakeholders, and a logic model was designed. The user test yielded an average SUS score of 81.2, and these results served as the basis for the usability requirements. Health Care Providers (HCPs) struggled with storing the profile of registered patients, setting up medication and personalizing adherence calls, and educational calls and follow-ups.

Conclusion

Following the CeHRes roadmap, an intervention based on IVRS was developed with considering the needs and preferences of KT recipients and HCPs. Designers and researchers could use the CeHRes roadmap as a reference when developing IT-based intervention systems. However, decisions must be made about the thoroughness of the execution of each phase, taking into account time constraints.
Prospective observational study to evaluate the feasibility of the mobile app for mild cognitive impairment detection and screening
Authors: Hamaguchi Reo , Hongo Seiji , Doi Naoto , Ide Hisamitsu , Saito Ryozo , Kishimoto Junji , Handa Nobuhiro , Horie Shigeo
Published: February 2025

Introduction

The increasing prevalence of dementia in aging populations necessitates effective and accessible cognitive screening tools. This study aimed to evaluate the feasibility and reliability of a newly developed mobile app for detecting and screening mild cognitive impairment (MCI).

Methods

The mobile app, developed by LifeQuest Co., Ltd. (Minato-ku, Tokyo), is an original tool inspired by the Japanese version of the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA-J). A prospective observational study was conducted with 20 participants, including healthy individuals, MCI patients, and those with mild to moderate-severe dementia. Participants completed both the mobile app and the MoCA-J in a randomized order within a two-week period, with a minimum one-day interval between tests.

Results and conclusion

The intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) between the mobile app and the MoCA-J was 0.956 (95% CI: 0.89-0.983), demonstrating a very high level of correlation. All participants successfully completed the mobile app assessment, highlighting its feasibility across various cognitive levels. Although minor technical issues and usability challenges were identified, the results support the mobile app as a reliable and user-friendly alternative for cognitive screening. Further studies with larger sample sizes are necessary to validate these findings and refine the app for broader clinical use.
Ocean warming, icebergs, and productivity in the Gulf of Alaska during the Last Interglacial
Authors: Sánchez Montes Maria Luisa , McClymont Erin L. , Asahi Hirofumi , Stoner Joseph , Moy Christopher M. , Gleghorn Sophie , Lloyd Jerry M.
Published: February 2025

The Pacific Ocean is an important region for carbon storage, yet the past ocean–climate interactions are relatively underexplored in explaining glacial/interglacial climate variability during the late Pleistocene re-expansion of the Cordilleran Ice Sheet (CIS). We analysed marine sediment samples from IODP 341 Expedition Site U1418 in the Gulf of Alaska (GOA) using marine and terrestrial biomarkers to study the periodicity of glacial–interglacial cycles over the last 500 thousand years and reconstruct the North Pacific oceanography and marine productivity. Our sea surface temperature (SST) results show that marine isotope stages (MISs) 4 and 6 are the coldest and freshest glacials and MIS 5 and MIS 1 are the warmest and saltiest interglacials. The glacial–interglacials during the last 200 kyr are best observed due to increased sedimentation rates in the GOA during the expansion of the CIS, when coccolithophores increase relative to diatom productivity export. We observe lower %IRDs during cold MIS 6 than during warm MIS 5, and overall lower carbon and nitrogen accumulation rates (TOC and TN MAR) and stable isotope ratios (δ15N and δ13C). We conclude that during MIS 6, the stratification of the cold and fresh surface ocean helped the growth of the CIS, and coccolithophores did not fully exploit the nutrient availability in the ocean but contributed to deep carbon storage and climate cooling. During MIS 5, although SSTs were 6°C warmer, icebergs were more abundant. We infer that higher coccolithophore abundance with different alkenone configurations suggests a change in the dominant coccolithophore groups and changes in the available nutrients, probably as a result of higher influence of the more saline Alaska Current (AC) and lower influence of the Alaska Coastal Current (ACC) at Site U1418. This higher AC influence in the GOA contributed to sedimentary carbon storage and contributed to climate cooling despite the warm climate and higher iceberg discharge. As the last interglacial (MIS 5e) was a time period with similar than modern atmospheric CO2 concentrations, our results provide new understandings of the possible behaviours of CIS and GOA under the current changes in climate.
Advancing education through e-learning innovation: the case of the Crocodile Chemistry program in higher education
Authors: Alqallaf Nawal , Almahmeed Zahra , Alsaber Ahmad , Alboloushi Bedour , Alkandari Anwaar , Alhashem Fatimah
Published: February 2025

Introduction

E-learning innovations have transformed higher education, particularly in STEM fields like chemistry. Traditional laboratory instruction faces limitations such as high costs, safety concerns, and accessibility issues. Virtual laboratories provide scalable alternatives to enhance student engagement and comprehension. This study evaluates the effectiveness of the Crocodile Chemistry program in improving students’ understanding of chemical concepts, academic performance, and motivation at the Public Authority for Applied Education and Training (PAAET).

Methods

A quasi-experimental design compared an experimental group (n = 102) using Crocodile Chemistry with a control group (n = 103) following traditional laboratory instruction. Pre-test and post-test assessments were conducted using the Alternative Chemical Concepts Test. Paired t-tests measured performance changes, and correlation analysis assessed learning consistency. The Partial Credit Model (PCM) evaluated test reliability and instructional effectiveness.

Results

Paired t-tests revealed significant performance improvements for the experimental group (p < 0.05), whereas the control group showed minimal changes. PCM analysis demonstrated higher reliability for the experimental group (0.774) compared to the control (0.403), indicating better differentiation of student abilities. Correlation analysis showed a strong relationship between pre- and post-test scores (r = −0.795, p < 0.001), confirming the program’s role in enhancing learning outcomes.

Discussion

The findings highlight the potential of virtual laboratories to modernize chemistry education by improving comprehension, engagement, and academic performance. This study supports the integration of digital tools in higher education to enhance learning outcomes and student motivation.
Mentoring women in STEM: empowering through social technologies for enhanced inclusivity and professional growth. A case study
Authors: Pacheco Figueroa Coral J. , Alvarez Lemus Mayra A.
Published: February 2025

The use of social technologies for on-line training of women in STEM (Science Technology Engineering and Mathematics) areas was explored for empowering women. Here, a case study on the implementation of a mentoring program focused on fostering the professional careers of women from the Juarez Autonomous University of Tabasco (UJAT), at the southeast of Mexico is presented. By means of an international initiative from the British Council, 32 participants were trained as mentors and mentees at UJAT, and further matched to accomplish a 3 months mentoring relationship. Throughout the sessions, the participants’ advances in soft skills (assertiveness, networking, leadership, active listening, self-confidence, ability to set SMART objectives, among others) were analyzed, showing how the use of social technologies promoted the professional development of women through empowerment as a strategy for reducing the gender gap in scientific and technological careers in Latin America.
Performance in organic chemistry at either a four-year university or community college predicts academic performance in an accelerated school of pharmacy
Authors: Smith Troy J. , Ross Jason , Breese Charles R. , Burmeister Melissa A.
Published: February 2025

PharmD programs face the growing challenge of students matriculating with a lack of academic preparedness, particularly in the foundational sciences. One key component of pharmacy is organic chemistry. Here, we determined if the setting of where undergraduate organic chemistry coursework is taken [i.e., 4-year university (U) vs. community college (CC)], is associated with varied academic outcomes in an accelerated Doctor of Pharmacy program. Five student cohorts representing a total of 180 graduates were analyzed. Graduates were first divided into those who studied undergraduate organic chemistry I and II at a U vs. CC and the pharmacy year 1 (PY1) and pharmacy year 2 (PY2) grade point averages (GPAs) compared. Students were then dichotomized into two subcategories based on whether they received an above average (i.e., A or B) or average (i.e., C) grade in organic chemistry I or II. Linear regression analysis was performed to determine whether performance in undergraduate organic chemistry is associated with programmatic GPA. PY1 and PY2 GPAs reflecting the didactic curriculum did not differ between students who took organic chemistry I and II at a U vs. C. The grade distributions in both organic chemistry I and II differed between U vs. CC, with more average grades received at a U. Institution type was not associated with differences in GPA outcomes. However, average performance in organic chemistry I was associated with lower PY1 and PY2 GPAs. Taken together, admissions committees should consider using performance in undergraduate organic chemistry I when evaluating an applicant’s academic readiness.
Relationship between clay minerals and microorganisms in underground hydrogen storage reservoirs: a mini review
Authors: Clark Allison , Sharma Shikha
Published: February 2025

Hydrogen (H2) will play a vital role in the global shift towards sustainable energy systems. Due to the high cost and challenges associated with storing hydrogen in large quantities for industrial applications, Underground Hydrogen Storage (UHS) in geological formations has emerged as a promising solution. Clay minerals, abundant in subsurface environments, play a critical role in UHS by providing low permeability, cation exchange capacity, and stability, essential for preventing hydrogen leakage. However, microorganisms in the subsurface, particularly hydrogenotrophic species, interact with clay minerals in ways that can affect the integrity of these storage systems. Microbes form biofilms on clay surfaces, which can cause pore clogging and reduce the permeability of the reservoir, potentially stabilizing H2 storage and limiting injectivity. Microbial-induced chemical weathering, through the production of organic acids and redox reactions, can degrade clay minerals, releasing metal ions and destabilizing the storage site. These interactions raise concerns about the long-term storage capacity of UHS, as microbial processes could lead to H2 loss and caprock degradation, compromising the storage system’s effectiveness. This mini review aims to cover the current understanding of the interactions between clay minerals and microorganisms and how these dynamics can affect the safe and sustainable deployment of UHS.
Insights on the utilisation of tissue culture to aid new breeding techniques for cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L.) improvement
Authors: Vacu Malizukiswe Vincent , Nzama Promise Sifiso , Adegbaju Muyiwa Seyi
Published: February 2025

Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L.) is an underutilised vegetable legume indigenous to and predominantly cultivated and consumed in Africa. However, its reach in agricultural production and consumption has expanded globally. This resilient crop is known for its ability to withstand various environmental stressors, making it suitable for marginal crop production systems commonly used by small-scale farmers. Although cowpea exhibits tolerance to drought, it is notably sensitive to salinity stress and biotic agents. The degree of tolerance to drought varies among different cultivars, which requires further research to develop more resilient varieties.The changing climate patterns and associated uncertainties highlight the urgent need to breed more resilient and productive cowpea cultivars. Conventional plant breeding techniques have produced new varieties of cowpeas, yet the limited genetic diversity within cultivated cowpeas poses challenges for future conventional breeding efforts. New breeding techniques (NBTs), including gene editing tools, single base pair alterations, and DNA methylation methods, offer promising alternatives to accelerate cowpea improvement. However, such approaches are also faced with challenges associated with the success of organogenesis (OG) and somatic embryogenesis (SE) in tissue culture. This review examines challenges and advances in the use of tissue culture to enhance cowpea productivity and resilience against abiotic and biotic stresses.