bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Theoretical and Pharmacological Investigations of Phenylthiazol-2, 4 Dihydroxybenzaldehyde Condensed Schiff Base
Authors: Subramanian Arun Prabhu , Samiyappan Rathakrishnan , Anitha Balakrishnan , Ayyadurai Gandhimathi Kaliyamoorthi , Rajendran Jayaprakash
Published: January 2025

The ability of thiazole derivatives to alter the activity of numerous metabolic enzymes suggests that they have promising therapeutic applications. Their antimicrobial, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antiproliferative properties were also established. The Schiff base, which was formed by combining 2, 4-dihydrxy benzaldehyde with phenyl thiazole amine, was studied using UV, FTIR, 1H, and 13C-NMR. The significant absorption (283 nm) and vibrational peaks at 1625 cm-1 were observed for the imine group. The compound was confirmed by the presence of a free proton and carbon peak following the aromatic peaks. The derivative underwent theoretical and biological evaluations, such as antibacterial, inhibition of alpha amylase, and DPPH scavenging assays. Using an online server, QSAR parameters were predicted for the synthesised molecule and compared with drug likeness using Lipinski five rules. The experimental results are compared with theoretical DFT and docking outcomes. The DFT results revealed the compound's reactivity and decreased hardness feature. Docking interaction score ranges from -5.2 to -11.2 kcal/mol. The antimicrobial activity against the pathogens Acinetobacter baumannii, Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, and Staphylococcus aureus was observed between 12 and 15 mm inhibition zone with the minimum inhibition concentration maximum of 150±0.28 µg/mL. Likely, antidiabetic and antioxidant outcomes showed the effective concentration from 428.73±0.32 to 590.36± 0.34 µg/mL. There was excellent agreement with theoretical QSAR and docking values in the prepared Schiff base.
Optimized EEG-Based Stress Detection: A Novel Approach
Authors: Patil Sangita Ajit , Paithane Ajay N.
Published: January 2025

Mental stress from tight deadlines and financial worries often causes both mental and physical health issues, affecting productivity and decision-making. This study aims to improve stress detection by analyzing EEG signals, which provide a cost-effective, non-invasive method for tracking brain activity. Recent stress detection systems face challenges such as computational complexity, noisy data, and high dimensionality. This study introduces optimal feature selection in an EEG-based stress detection system using the Archimedes Optimization Algorithm (AOA) and Analytical Hierarchical Process (AHP). AOA balances exploration and exploitation, while AHP prioritizes EEG criteria. The system processes EEG data from the DEAP dataset, which includes recordings from 32 participants who watch 40 music clips. It operates in four main stages: enhancing EEG signals with Wavelet Packet Transform (WPT), extracting features, selecting relevant features with the AOA-AHP algorithm, and detecting stress using deep convolutional neural networks and long short-term memory networks (DCNN-LSTM). After evaluating various features with 244 EEG samples, the system optimizes to 350 key features, achieving 95.25% accuracy, 0.97 recall, 0.98 precision, and 0.98 F1 score. This setup enhances accuracy, reduces training time, and minimizes parameters, making it highly reliable for real-time mental stress detection.
Polysaccharides of the Peel of Two Types of Сucumis Melo (Torpedo, Obi-Navvat) and Their Antimicrobial and Prebiotic Activity
Authors: Siddiqova Sevinch , Azizov Doniyor , Eshbekov Azamat , Maulyanov Salixjan , Elova Nilufar , Azimova Aziza
Published: January 2025

The growing global population has increased the demand for food and created challenges in managing agricultural waste. Melon (Cucumis melo L.) peels, a byproduct of melon processing, hold potential as a source of biologically active compounds, including polysaccharides and phenolic acids, with antimicrobial, antioxidant, and prebiotic properties. This study aims to isolate and characterize polysaccharides from melon peels and evaluate their biological activities, providing a sustainable approach to waste utilization. Melon peel samples of the Torpedo variety were collected during the ripening period in Uzbekistan. Sequential extractions were performed using solvents (chloroform, ethanol, ammonium oxalate, and potassium hydroxide) to isolate water-soluble polysaccharides (WSPS), pectic substances (PS), and hemicellulose (HMC). Monosaccharide composition was analyzed using paper chromatography (PCh), gas chromatography (GC), and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Antimicrobial activity was assessed against opportunistic bacteria, and prebiotic activity was evaluated using Pediococcus acidilactici as a model strain. The extraction yielded 8.0 g of WSPS, 5.0 g of PS, and 2.0 g of HMC per 100 g of raw melon peel. Monosaccharide analysis revealed the presence of galactose, glucose, mannose, xylose, arabinose, and rhamnose. The antimicrobial assay demonstrated significant inhibition zones for pathogenic bacteria, suggesting strong antibacterial activity of melon peel polysaccharides. Additionally, prebiotic activity assays showed enhanced growth of Pediococcus acidilactici, indicating the potential of melon peel polysaccharides as prebiotic agents. The results highlight the potential of melon peel polysaccharides as functional biomolecules with antimicrobial and prebiotic properties. Their ability to inhibit bacterial growth and promote probiotic strains suggests applications in food preservation and gut health. Further studies on their structural characterization and bioactivity could enhance their utilization as natural additives or therapeutic agents, contributing to sustainable waste management and value addition in agriculture.
TECNOLOGIA DIGITAL EM SAÚDE MENTAL PARA O CUIDADO DE ESTUDANTES DO ENSINO SUPERIOR: UMA REVISÃO INTEGRATIVA
Authors: Carvalho de Aguiar Leidiane , Lopes Evangelista Ávila Roberlândia , De Holanda Cunha Barreto Ivana Cristina , Nazaré Oliveira Eliany , De Sousa Teixeira Jorge Samuel , Janielly Negreiros de Moraes Antonia
Published: January 2025

Introdução: A pesquisa discute a importância do conhecimento sobre o uso de tecnologia digital na promoção da saúde mental de estudantes universitários. Fazendo debates sobre a evolução da compreensão da saúde mental ao longo da história, destacando o estigma associado aos transtornos mentais e a falta de direitos para aqueles considerados "anormais" pela sociedade. Objetivo: analisar as melhores evidências científicas relacionadas à tecnologia digital em saúde mental para estudantes universitários. Materiais e Método: Adotou a metodologia da Revisão Integrativa da Literatura (RIL), seguiu-se as seis etapas do método apresentadas pelos autores Botelho, Cunha e Macedo (2008), selecionando-se os descritores" Estudantes ",  "Tecnologia digital", " saúde mental ", " Universidades”, em português e inglês, e utilizou-se o operador booleano OR. Realizou-se a busca em quatro fontes de literatura científica, no período de janeiro de 2023 a março de 2023. Resultados: a amostra final quantificou um total de 05 artigos em consonância com a temática saúde mental e tecnologia digital para estudantes universitários. Conclusão: Ao pesquisar sobre o acesso de tecnologias digitais para o cuidado de estudantes do ensino superior, constata-se que tem sido objeto de muitos estudos, entretanto quando relacionada a tecnologia digital como ferramenta de apoio a saúde mental aos estudantes mediante aos trabalhos selecionados, observa-se o quanto é escasso, e que precisa ser investigado.
ADESÃO DE ADOLESCENTES OBESOS ÀS AÇÕES DE PROFISSIONAIS DE SAÚDE NA ATENÇÃO PRIMÁRIA EM SAÚDE
Authors: Carvalho Rodrigues Layonne de Sousa , Batista Beserra Jéssica , Araujo de Sousa Roniele , De Oliveira Cardoso Osmar , Melo dos Santos Marize
Published: January 2025

Este artigo associou a percepção de profissionais de saúde acerca da adesão de adolescentes obesos às ações realizadas na atenção primária em saúde. Trata-se de estudo descritivo, temporalidade transversal e abordagem quantitativa realizado com dados do “Programa de enfrentamento e controle da obesidade, no âmbito da Atenção Básica do SUS”, no Piauí, entre março e outubro de 2021. Profissionais de saúde responderam questionário eletrônico sobre as ações em âmbito individual, em grupo e comunitário, bem como sobre sua adesão. Os dados foram analisados no programa Stata, versão 14. Observou-se que as ações mais prevalentes, no cuidado em grupo, foram as de Promoção da Alimentação Adequada e Saudável (33,88%) e as orientações alimentares (31,15%); e no cuidado comunitário, as ações de vigilância nutricional (39,89%). Observou-se maiores percentuais relativos à adesão insatisfatória de adolescentes às ações individuais (51,28%) e em grupo (53,57%). A adesão satisfatória foi mais prevalente no cuidado comunitário (81,58%). Não foi encontrada associação entre as ações ofertadas e a sua adesão. Diante da baixa adesão às ações, sugere-se melhorar a oferta de estratégias ativas e emancipatórias em grupos terapêuticos e na comunidade.
Editorial da Edição Especial: Inovação no Ensino em Saúde
Authors: Portella Daniel Leite
Published: January 2025

Editorial da edição especial da RAS
A mid-Holocene pollen record of mangrove diversity on the coast of Ujung Genteng, the southern edge of Sunda Shelf, Indonesia
Authors: NUGROHO SEPTRIONO HARI , RIZAL YAN , ZAIM YAHDI , YULIANTO EKO , PUTRA PURNA SULASTYA , RIYANTO AGUS MEN , AMAR AMAR
Published: January 2025

Abstract. Nugroho SH, Rizal Y, Zaim Y, Yulianto E, Putra PS, Riyanto AM, Amar. 2024. A mid-Holocene pollen record of mangrove diversity on the coast of Ujung Genteng, the southern edge of Sunda Shelf, Indonesia. Biodiversitas 25: 3653-3664. The Sunda Shelf provides the most informative data for studying mangrove ecosystems. However, the southern edge of the Sunda Shelf adjacent to the Sunda megathrust zone has yet to be studied. This study aimed to provide a paleoecology record of the Ujung Genteng mangrove ecosystem during the mid-Holocene (over 6,300 cal year BP (Before Present). We looked at changes in a mangrove ecosystem using pollen and radiocarbon data from the UG 7B core. Rhizophora sp. initially dominated at c. 6,200-6,100 cal year BP. The ecosystem gradually declined, transitioning to a back mangrove environment. A decrease in the mangrove and back mangrove pollen since 4,200 cal year BP, indicating a shift away from the mangrove forest. In contrast, higher non-mangrove pollen frequency indicates a closer distance to the lowland. By 400 cal year BP, all mangrove pollen vanished, and the environment became almost completely terrestrial. The implications of this research contribute to improved insights into mangrove resilience and resistance to environmental and anthropogenic stressors, aiding effective coastal management and adaptation strategies. Our study also highlights the unique conditions of Sunda Shelf paleoecology, contributing to a more comprehensive regional knowledge and offering an important reference for further investigations on coastal ecosystem dynamics.
Optimizing optical neural network design for enhanced compatibility with analog computation
Authors: Lu Zongyu , Tao Jinming , Wang Xiaoyu , Liu Jianguo , Wang Leilei , Mei Shiyu , Cheng Buwen , Li Jinye
Published: January 2025

This paper breaks away from traditional approaches that merely emulate digital neural networks. Using Mach-Zehnder interferometer (MZI) networks as a case study, we explore the impact of the inherent properties of analog computation on performance and identify the characteristics that optical neural networks (ONNs) components should possess to better adapt to these specific properties. Specifically, we examine the influence of analog computation on bias power and activation functions, as well as the impact of optical pruning on ONN’s performance. The results show that a suitably larger bias power relative to normalized data and concave activation functions are more compatible with the characteristics of ONNs. These factors can significantly improve classification accuracy across different datasets and ξ values, with improvements reaching up to 35%. Additionally, optical pruning reduces the number of MZIs by two-thirds while maintaining performance. Moreover, these measures significantly enhance the robustness of ONNs against MZI losses and phase errors. Although this research primarily focuses on feedforward MZI-based networks, the proposed design principles are widely applicable to other types of ONNs.
Pseudospin Transverse Localization of Light in an Optical Disordered Spin-Glass Phase
Authors: Izhak Shani , Karnieli Aviv , Yesharim Ofir , Tsesses Shai , Arie Ady
Published: January 2025

Localization phenomena during transport are typically driven by disordered scalar potentials. Here, we predict a universal pseudospin localization phenomenon induced by a disordered vectorial potential and demonstrate it experimentally in an optical analogue of a classical disordered spin-glass
magnetic phase. In our system, a transverse disorder in the second-order nonlinear coupling of a nonlinear photonic crystal causes the idler-signal light beam, representing the pseudospin current, to become localized in the transverse plane. This effect depends strongly on the nonlinear
coupling strength, controlled by the optical pump power, revealing its inherently nonlinear and non-perturbative nature. Furthermore, this phenomenon is marked by decaying Rabi oscillations between the idler and signal fields, linked to the disorder properties, suggesting an accompanied longitudinal decoherence effect. Our findings offer deep insights into spin transport in disordered magnetic textures and open avenues for exploring complex magnetic phases and phase transitions
using nonlinear optics.
Human mobility and malaria risk in peri-urban and rural communities in the Peruvian Amazon
Authors: Gomez Joaquin , Grosso Alessandro , Guzman-Guzman Mitchel , Garcia Castillo Stefano , Castro Marcia C. , Torres Katherine , Vinetz Joseph M. , Gamboa Dionicia
Published: January 2025

Background

While the global burden of malaria cases has decreased over the last two decades, the disease remains a major international threat, even on the rise in many regions. More than 85% of Peruvian malaria cases are in the Amazonian region of Loreto. Internal mobility primarily related to occupation is thought to be primarily responsible for maintaining endemicity and introducing and reintroducing malaria parasites into areas of anophelism, a challenge for malaria eradication. This study focuses on identifying the sources of malaria transmission and patterns of human mobility in order to understand the movement and transmission of the parasite.

Methods

The assessment of connectivity produced by human mobility was evaluated in three districts of Loreto, through 10 cross-sectional population screening from 2018 to 2020. We used social network analysis (SNA) to obtain weighted and unweighted degrees of connectivity and explore its variability by socio-demographic characteristics. In addition, we integrated travel history and malaria incidence data to estimate parasite connectivity due to internal human mobility between locations. Finally, we used logistic multivariate regressions to explore the factors associated with Plasmodium spp. infection in mobile individuals.

Results

We found that internal human mobility results in high connectivity between communities from the Mazan, Iquitos, and San Juan Bautista districts. We identified nearby destinations that may act as sinks or sources for malaria transmission, including densely populated towns and rural campsites. In addition, we found that being a male, traveling to rural campsites, and working outdoors are associated with Plasmodium spp. infection in travelers from the Mazan district.

Conclusions

We provide compelling evidence about how human mobility connects rural communities in the Peruvian Amazon. Using SNA, we uncovered district-specific patterns and destinations, providing further evidence of human mobility heterogeneity in the region. To address the challenge of human mobility and malaria in this setting, geographic heterogeneity of malaria transmission must be considered.
Insights into the progressive impact of high-fat-diet induced insulin resistance on skeletal muscle and myocardium: A comprehensive study on C57BL6 mice
Authors: Wang Jingxuan , Dai Lizhi , Yu Tong , Xiao Jianhua
Published: January 2025

This study aims to provide a theoretical foundation for the future management of diabetes at various stages induced by a high-fat diet. Specifically, it seeks to determine the appropriate pharmacological interventions for each phase of diabetes development and the targeted therapeutic directions at different stages of diabetes progression. This investigation employed C57BL6 mice as experimental subjects, successfully establishing an insulin resistance model through a 12-week high-fat diet. Clinical manifestations, weight, body composition, and overall health of each mouse group were observed on the first day of the 6th, 8th, 10th, and 12th week of high-fat feeding to analyze insulin resistance. Subsequently, open-field test of each mouse group, and histopathological changes in the skeletal muscle and myocardium of each mouse group, along with the detection of protein-level expression of relevant genes, were performed to assess alterations in mitochondrial energy metabolism during insulin resistance. This endeavor aims to contribute insights for future in-depth veterinary research. The outcomes demonstrated that a continuous 12-week high-fat diet successfully induced stable insulin resistance in C57BL6 mice. Following insulin resistance, the motor activity of mice decreased, gradual pathological damage and functional decline were observed in the skeletal muscle and myocardium. The insulin signaling pathway was inhibited, resulting in reduced glucose transport and increased gluconeogenesis. Additionally, mitochondrial dysfunction manifested as diminished ATP synthesis capacity, weakened mitochondrial biogenesis, reduced mitochondrial fusion, increased division, and diminished autophagy. Notably, during insulin resistance progression, skeletal muscles and myocardium in C57BL6 mice predominantly relied on glycolytic pathways for energy supply. In the early stages of insulin resistance, the glycogen synthesis pathway in C57BL6 mouse skeletal muscles was inhibited. Our findings underscore a distinct mechanism in skeletal muscle and myocardium that ensures the utilization of anaerobic fermentation to meet energy demands in instances of inadequate aerobic respiration (Fig 1).
Research on quantitative evaluation of medical insurance fraud supervision policy based on ‘Antecedents-Process-Outcomes’ framework
Authors: Zhang Zixiao , Ding Shaoqun , Yang Zitao , Hu Huaxia
Published: January 2025

Fraud in medical insurance is a serious problem that threatens the safety and sustainability of medical insurance funds. The process of reducing or even eliminating the impact of fraud is related to maintaining the balance of payments for medical insurance funds and reforming the payment system based on total amount control. As a result of reviewing the policy background of medical insurance fraud in China, combined with the policy evaluation model in the area of public management, this paper develops a conceptual framework of ’Antecedents-Process-Outcomes’ that emphasizes the fraud and governance of medical insurance funds. This paper uses grounded theory to look at 180 cases of medical insurance fraud and then uses the PMC index model to rate 18 policies. It then looks at the joint progressive analysis framework of medical insurance fraud and fraud supervision. In this paper, we analyze the policy similarities and differences of medical insurance fraud supervision in China from three perspectives: policy attributes, policy contents, and policy effects. The average PMC index of the 18 policies is 4.98, which is generally acceptable; however, there are some deficiencies in the policy field, policy supervision chain, policy orientation, and policy tools. Then, it puts forward suggestions for improving the four policy shortcomings in order to provide theoretical and practical enlightenment for the high-quality development of the medical security system and realize the new medical security in the process of Chinese-style modernization.
Energy consumption forecasting for oil and coal in China based on hybrid deep learning
Authors: He Jiao , Li Yuhang , Xu Xiaochuan , Wu Di
Published: January 2025

The consumption forecasting of oil and coal can help governments optimize and adjust energy strategies to ensure energy security in China. However, such forecasting is extremely challenging because it is influenced by many complex and uncertain factors. To fill this gap, we propose a hybrid deep learning approach for consumption forecasting of oil and coal in China. It consists of three parts, i.e., feature engineering, model building, and model integration. First, feature engineering is to distinguish the different correlations between targeted indicators and various features. Second, model building is to build five typical deep learning models with different characteristics to forecast targeted indicators. Third, model integration is to ensemble the built five models with a tailored, self-adaptive weighting strategy. As such, our approach enjoys all the merits of the five deep learning models (they have different learning structures and temporal constraints to diversify them for ensembling), making it able to comprehensively capture all the characteristics of different indicators to achieve accurate forecasting. To evaluate the proposed approach, we collected the real 880 pieces of data with 39 factors regarding the energy consumption of China ranging from 1999 to 2021. By conducting extensive experiments on the collected datasets, we have identified the optimal features for four targeted indicators (i.e., import of oil, production of oil, import of coal, and production of coal), respectively. Besides, we have demonstrated that our approach is significantly more accurate than the state-of-the-art forecasting competitors.
Cross-sectional study of lung cancer patients as a potential high-risk factor for abdominal aortic aneurysm
Authors: Gwon Hye Ran , Woo A La , Yong Seung Hyun , Park Young Mok , Kim Song Yee , Kim Eun Young , Jung Ji Ye , Kang Young Ae , Park Moo Suk , Kang Du–Young , Park Seong Yong , Lee Sang Hoon , Kwon Jun Seong
Published: January 2025

Background

Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is more common in Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients. Considering that ruptured AAA is potentially fatal, timely management of AAA would result in long-term survival benefits. We assess the prevalence and characteristics of AAA in resectable NSCLC patients who would benefit from AAA surveillance.

Methods

1,019 resectable NSCLC patients in Severance and Kangbuk Samsung Hospitals were reviewed from January 2019 to November 2020. The control group comprised 2,899 cancer-free people who had a health check-up CT scan in Severance between January 2018 and December 2019.

Results

Among resectable primary NSCLC patients, 39/1,019 (3.8%; odds ratio [OR], 19.19; 95% confidence interval [CI], 8.10–46.46) had AAA compared with 6/2,899 (0.2%) in the control (P<0.001). In multivariable regression analysis, male (OR, 13.24; 95% CI, 1.50–117.48; P = 0.020), aging (OR, 1.10; 95% CI, 1.04–1.15; P<0.001), current smoker (OR, 4.20; 95% CI, 1.20–14.62; P = 0.024), and coronary artery disease (OR, 3.13; 95% CI, 1.48–6.62; P = 0.003) were independent risk factors for AAA in NSCLC.

Conclusion

The present study found that the incidence of AAA in resectable early-stage lung cancer patients was significantly higher than in the cancer-free control group. Therefore, we suggest that early-stage NSCLC patients, especially smokers older than 60 years, undergo regular AAA surveillance as part of their lung cancer monitoring.
Revising the definition of “demand satisfied for modern methods of family planning:” A cross-sectional study to explore incorporating person-centered constructs of demand, choice, and satisfaction
Authors: Gausman Jewel , Saggurti Niranjan , Adanu Richard , Bandoh Delia A. B. , Berrueta Mabel , Chakraborty Suchandrima , Kenu Ernest , Khan Nizamuddin , Langer Ana , Nigri Carolina , Odikro Magdalene A. , Pingray Veronica , Ramesh Sowmya , Vázquez Paula , Williams Caitlin R. , Jolivet R. Rima
Published: January 2025

Several challenges to validity have been identified with standard approaches used to measure “demand satisfied for modern methods of family planning.” This study explored construct validity of the widely used indicator for “demand satisfied” by comparing the standard definition to alternative definitions of the indicator highlighting dimensions of women’s own perceived demand, choice, and satisfaction. This cross-sectional study of women aged 15–49 years was conducted in Argentina (n = 1492), Ghana (n = 1600), and India (n = 1702) using a two-staged random sampling design. Women were directly asked about their: 1) demand, whether they wanted to use a contraceptive method to prevent pregnancy; 2) choice, whether they had autonomy in decision-making during their last family planning visit; and 3) satisfaction, whether they were satisfied with their method. The values of the standard and alternative indicators were compared. Convergent validity was assessed using logistic regression to explore the association between indicator definition and use of a preferred contraceptive method. In Argentina and India, the percentage of women with demand satisfied after incorporating constructs of demand, choice, and satisfaction was substantially lower than that obtained using the standard definition—a reduction of ~70% in Argentina and ~40% in India. Women who were categorized as having their “demand satisfied” for family planning according to the person-centered dimensions of the alternative indicator were significantly more likely to be using their preferred method of contraception in all three countries (OR: 7.7, 95% CI: 5.31–11.07 in Argentina, OR: 4.83, 95% CI: 2.27–10.27 in Ghana, and OR: 2.07 95% CI: 1.11–3.86 in India) compared to those whose demand was satisfied by only the standard indicator definition. Revising the definition of demand satisfied to reflect the principles of person-centered care offers an opportunity to improve construct validity by ensuring that global measurement efforts align with women’s reproductive rights.
Effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on colorectal cancer screening in two university-affiliated health care systems
Authors: Kumar Vinod , Golzarri-Arroyo Lilian , Roth Sarah , Imperiale Thomas F.
Published: January 2025

Objectives

In two large university affiliated healthcare systems, we examined trends in colorectal cancer (CRC) screening both prior to and during the COVID-19 pandemic to compare the trends in non-invasive screening tests and colonoscopy.

Materials and methods

In this retrospective time-trend analysis, we obtained the numbers of colonoscopies and non-invasive tests performed monthly during the pandemic and the year prior to it. We obtained colonoscopy data from five endoscopy units with the indication determined by dual independent review. Monthly numbers of completed fecal immunochemical (FIT) and FIT-DNA tests were obtained from the electronic medical records of both health systems. Trends in testing, numbers, and stage of incident CRCs diagnosed during the 30-month interval were examined using Poisson regression and logistic regression, respectively.

Results

From January 2019 to June 2021, we identified 16,939 FIT tests, 2,942 FIT-DNA tests, and 38,332 colonoscopies from the two health systems, and 368 colorectal cancers (105 early stage, 263 advanced stage) from the private hospital system. Overall colonoscopy volume declined by 18.7% (from 16,483 to 13,393) in 2020 compared to 2019 in both health systems, returning to baseline in 2021. Non-invasive tests declined by 21.9% in 2020, but increased in 2021 due to greater use of FIT/DNA. Compared to 2019, incident CRCs declined in 2020 but rebounded in 2021, with no difference in early versus late-stage cancers.

Conclusions

These trends in CRC screening tests may be useful for modeling the effects of the pandemic on the longer-term outcomes of CRC incidence and mortality.
Accelerating Early Childhood Science Through a Scalable Online Teacher Professional Development Program: A Design Case of Early Science Matters
Authors: Banzer David , Riel Jeremy , Sheridan Kathleen
Published: January 2025

This design case presents the conceptualization, design, and development of Early Science Matters (ESM), an online teacher professional development (oTPD) program for early childhood teachers. The program design consisted of five primary features that were expected to promote participant learning, including (1) visually oriented content, (2) meaningful assessments, (3) chunking modules to build upon previous content, (4) reflective activities, and (5) encouraging website interactions with supplementary materials. Through a process of collaborative design between two faculty subject-matter experts and two professional instructional designers and media producers, we developed an initial version of the ESM program. After development, a focus group was recruited to test the first version of ESM initially. Subsequent revisions were made to the design based on the focus group evaluation. The case closes with a reflection on emergent challenges that we faced during the design process and the rationale for decisions made to address challenges.
Continuous Improvement in an Engineering Technology Capstone Sequence
Authors: Berry Frederick Clayton , Huang Wanju , Exter Marisa
Published: January 2025

This paper outlines the continuous improvement enhancements of a two-semester multidisciplinary capstone program tailored for senior students within the School of Engineering Technology. These courses revolve around collaborative teamwork and focus on the development of innovative solutions for industry-sponsored projects. The overarching goal of these courses is to facilitate a seamless transition for students into their professional careers. One area that students often struggle with is developing professional skills (including communication and teamwork), which are required components evaluated in ABET accreditation and are necessary for graduates as they begin and progress across their careers. The Plan-Do-Check-Act continuous improvement process was used to develop, deploy, and evaluate a series of interventions to enhance the overall Capstone Education experience. This design case will particularly focus on interventions related to fostering professional skills.
STEAM+H Education for Global Citizenship: Curricular Transformation Using Active Methodologies in Colombia
Authors: Osorio Leidy , Arango Maria Paulina , Cuesta-Hincapié Carolina
Published: January 2025

This design case describes the curricular transformation process undertaken by San José de Las Vegas school, a K4-11 school in Medellin, Colombia, committed to educating students as conscientious global citizens. The case outlines the school’s multifaceted design choices, including the sequential steps and activities to develop and implement a pedagogical strategy that integrates diverse content areas. The final design, denominated STEAM+H, promotes holistic student development by cultivating personal, local, and global identities while instilling a deep sense of social responsibility. Central to this design is the integration of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) as a thematic framework to connect subjects and engage students in solving local and global challenges. Additionally, we highlight how Design Thinking was used as a methodology to facilitate interdisciplinary learning, influencing the resulting STEAM+H activities and learning spaces. This transformation is presented in three phases, from local to global comprehension, emphasizing the roles and involvement of different stakeholders, including students, parents, teachers, and administrators. Finally, we discuss the challenges and successes encountered and share our reflections and insights gained from this transformative journey.
The design team focused on incorporating the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) as the central theme to connect different subjects or disciplines and engage students in solving local and global issues. Additionally, the team employed active methodologies such as Design Thinking and Design for Change to connect the different disciplines. We outline this process in three phases, progressing from local to global understanding and highlighting various stakeholders' roles and crucial involvement, including students, parents, teachers, and administrators. Finally, we share our reflections and insights gained from this transformative journey.
Inquiry-based Artificial Intelligence Curriculum for Upper Elementary Students: A Design Case of PrimaryAI
Authors: Jeon Minji , Jantaraweragul Kathleen , Ottenbreit-Leftwich Anne , Hmelo-Silver Cindy , Glazewski Krista , Mott Bradford , Lester James , Ringstaff Cathy
Published: January 2025

The PrimaryAI project focuses on developing an upper elementary integrated curriculum that covers life science, artificial intelligence (AI), and computer science concepts. The PrimaryAI curriculum uses both problem-based learning (PBL) and game-based learning (GBL) to engage students and situates the curriculum in a real-world context. The curriculum and online game were co-designed by researchers and elementary classroom teachers over a period of three years. The curriculum and game utilize a PBL approach to increase student interest and agency while exploring complex topics. The curriculum introduces students to ecosystems; population studies; AI definition and examples; computer vision; machine learning; and AI planning—all within the context of helping study an animal population in students’ local communities. The GBL environment provides students with the opportunity to apply learning from the curriculum to help virtual scientists learn more about factors impacting the endangered yellow-eyed penguins to establish conservation efforts. This design case highlights the instructional design process behind the immersive virtual learning environment and the curriculum as products.
Applying Learning Theories Through Research and Imagination
Authors: Yang Hongyan , Larson Miriam B. , Wong Rachel M.
Published: January 2025

This design case centers around a creative assignment given to graduate students studying instructional design. The goal of the assignment is to facilitate mastery of learning theories through the theory-based evaluation of an instructional product, using both research and imagination. By applying learning theories in a practical and engaging manner, students develop a more comprehensive understanding of these theories. The design case documents the design process of the assignment, including the context, initial inspiration, critical tasks, and iterative changes made over the years to improve the learning experience. The rationale behind various design decisions is presented, along with reflections on the learning experience.
Bringing Social Justice to Instructional Design Practice: A New Approach to Team Development
Authors: Lowe Deborah , Derr Rebecca , Molleck Alexandra
Published: January 2025

The purpose of our instructional design team is to service the faculty and staff of a multi-campus state university system with pay and benefits educational programming. Our learning population includes the university’s diverse workforce of over 25,000 benefits-eligible employees. We support faculty and staff with resources to make informed decisions about health and financial benefits throughout the employee lifecycle. This design case will detail and examine the team development approach we took to center equity work in our design practice. We will detail our design dilemma with an underserved employee population and how we incorporated the principles of Design Justice and self-reflective practice into our team development. This allowed us to center the voices of this learning population to create an inclusive learning environment.
Ethically Informed Design
Authors: Cook-Snell Brett
Published: January 2025

This design case presents my experiences, successes, and challenges, in the design and delivery of a six-week special topics course on culturally inclusive instructional design. The course was delivered synchronously with a diverse group of 15 individuals enrolled in the instructional design and technology degree program. The focus of the course was uncovering implicit and explicit biases in design practices. Topics addressed included the systemic isms of society, such as racism, ableism, genderism, and many more. Relevant to this special issue, ethical design practices are viewed in the light of the Association for Educational Communications and Technology (AECT) standards and code of ethics (2012).
Unexpected Ethical Concerns of Developing Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Justice Review Tools: A Design Case
Authors: Gilbertson Betsy , Shepherd Stephanie , Fergus Jeffrey
Published: January 2025

This design case explores the development of tools to foster diversity, equity, inclusion, and justice (DEIJ) in course design and teaching at a predominantly white institution. We designed a suite of tools for instructional designers and faculty to review online courses, helping to ensure quality course design and meaningful learning experiences exist for all students. We are highlighting the design of the course review tools that were created to increase DEIJ in online classes. Our goal is to have students feel welcome, safe, and to see themselves represented throughout the online courses offered at Auburn University. We also delve into the ethical challenges faced during the development and implementation of the tools, including the decision to rebrand the tools as “community and belonging” to avoid faculty and administrative resistance. This case highlights the intricate balance between principle-based and care-based ethics in our design of the creation of the self-evaluation tool for our team and faculty. It emphasizes the importance of adaptability, sensitivity to context, and strategic communication in promoting inclusive practices.
A Novel Digital Audio Encryption Algorithm Using Three Hyperchaotic Rabinovich System Generators
Authors: Jawad Ameer K. , Karimi Gholamreza , Radmelkshahi Mazdak
Published: January 2025

Improved speech encryption is needed for digital voice communications. Data security requires advanced encryption against cyberattacks. Traditional encryption may not be able to handle advanced threats or large datasets. This study uses chaotic system features to create a secure and adaptive digital audio encryption algorithm and enhances public audio encryption. Three hyperchaotic systems allow digital audio signal randomized encryption. The first system generates chaotic random integer numbers as keys, the second selects non-sequential indices to increase unpredictability, and the third randomly samples the digital audio signal and encrypts it through XOR operations with a selected key, making it harder for intruders to learn the encryption pattern. The proposed system uses Diffie-Hellman key exchange for key agreement. We have tested and proven the efficiency of the proposed algorithm. The encrypted audio signals, achieving a Peak Signal-to-Noise Ratio (PSNR) of around −20 dB, exhibit high distortion, spectral complexity, very low correlation (round to zero), high entropy, and minimal time delay compared to other articles, making them resistant to decryption attempts by attackers. The system has a large key space of 1345 bits, and its randomized nature and extensive key space protect sensitive audio data in public communication channels, even with minor changes to hyper-chaos generators. The proposed algorithm represents a significant advancement in the field of digital audio encryption. The researchers have utilized chaotic systems to create a strong and flexible encryption system. This algorithm is suitable for military and medical communications that require a high level of audio data security.
Städte im Fokus: Wie urbane Räume den Wandel zu nachhaltigen Ernährungssystemen vorantreiben können
Authors: Scharrer Bettina , Markoni Evelyn , Götze Franziska , Meier Matthias
Published: January 2025

Städte haben großes Potenzial, lokale Ernährungssysteme zu transformieren. Die saguf-AG Nachhaltige Ernährungssysteme zeigt Ergebnisse eines Projekts zur Ernährungspolitik in Schweizer Städten.
From a normal and a post-normal science ethos towards a survival science ethos?
Authors: Kastenhofer Karen
Published: January 2025

What ethos and what role repertoire can scientists bring to bear in the face of the current climate emergency without risking the very legitimacy and authority of science? In this article, I draw on Max Weber’s and Robert K. Merton’s conceptions of normal science,
as well as on reconstructions of science’s ethos and role repertoires in post-normal science regimes. I put up for discussion whether current survival science constellations require yet another, radically new ethos and role set.
Sustainability transitions in university hospitals: Contextualising research incentives and ethical responsibilities
Authors: Timmermann Cristian , Wild Verina
Published: January 2025

While there is agreement on the need to improve sustainability in university hospitals, there are strong differences of opinion on how such goals interact with responsibilities of the medical profession, including research activities. To facilitate sustainability transitions in university
hospitals, we need to gain a better understanding of the multiple incentive structures and ethical responsibilities related to sustainability that influence the physicians working there. Furthermore, there needs to be greater awareness and systematic consideration of the health co-benefits
of sustainability transitions. Both are necessary to prevent the sustainability agendas in hospital settings from becoming deadlocked due to disagreements over priorities and implementation, despite initial consensus in principle.
Epistemic justice: An ethical basis for transdisciplinary and transformative sustainability research
Authors: Meisch Simon
Published: January 2025

Abstract The idea of epistemic justice can help to resolve tensions between different ethical motivations in the transdisciplinary and transformative research literature as to why extra-scientific knowledge holders need to be included in knowledge production processes.Justice
is the social mission and the ethical motivation for knowledge production in the sustainability sciences. To support transformations towards more just societies, alternative forms of knowledge production are needed that include the contributions of extra-scientific knowledge holders. The paper
identifies inherent tensions within the literature on transdisciplinary and transformative research (TDTR) between different ethical motivations for involving these knowledge holders. Some point to justice claims derived from the social mission of TDTR; others emphasise forms of justification
described in this paper as epistemic prudence. However, it is possible to resolve these tensions by referring to the idea of epistemic justice. The paper introduces this idea to reconstruct ethical intuitions within TDTR. In doing so, it invites TDTR practitioners to critically rethink their
ethical motivations in order to advance work on the normative foundations of TDTR.
Sosyal Bilgiler Öğretmenlerinin Değer Merkezli Okul Kültürüne İlişkin Tutumları
Authors: BALIK Songül , KURTDAŞ Emine Meliha
Published: January 2025

Bu çalışmanın amacı, sosyal bilgiler öğretmenlerinin değer merkezli okul kültürüne ilişkin tutumlarını incelemektir. Araştırmada nicel araştırma yöntemlerinden tarama modeli kullanılmıştır. Araştırmanın örneklemini 2021-2022 eğitim-öğretim yılında Şanlıurfa'da Millî Eğitim Bakanlığına bağlı okullarda görev yapan 258 sosyal bilgiler öğretmeni oluşturmaktadır. Bu katılımcılar 1145 kişilik evren içerisinden seçkisiz örnekleme yöntemiyle seçilmiş ve çalışmaya katılmayı gönüllü olarak kabul etmişlerdir. Araştırmada veri toplama aracı olarak anket formu kullanılmıştır. Anket formunun birinci bölümünde araştırmaya katılan sosyal bilgiler öğretmenlerinin demografik özelliklerini belirtmeye yönelik sekiz soru yer almaktadır. İkinci bölümünde ise “Değer Merkezli Okul Kültürü Ölçeği” yer almaktadır. Araştırma verilerinin analizinde SPSS 24.0 istatistiksel veri değerlendirme programı kullanılmıştır. Araştırmanın sonucunda erkek öğretmenlerin değer merkezli okul kültürüne yönelik tutum düzeylerinin kadın öğretmenlere göre daha yüksek olduğu görülmüştür. Ayrıca, 36-40 yaş aralığındaki öğretmenlerin, bekâr öğretmenlerin, çocuğu olmayanların, kırsal kesimde (köylerde) yetişenlerin, lisans derecesine sahip olanların ve mesleki kıdemi 11 yıl ve üzeri olanların okul kültürüne yönelik tutumlarının diğer öğretmenlere kıyasla daha yüksek olduğu ortaya çıkmıştır.
Bürokratik Okul Kültürü Ölçeğinin Geliştirilmesi
Authors: ZENGİN Tuğba , TABANCALI Erkan
Published: January 2025

Bu çalışmanın amacı bürokratik okul kültürü ölçeği geliştirmektir. Bu amaçla öncelikle alan yazın taraması yapılmıştır ve 80 maddelik bir madde havuzu oluşturulmuştur. Madde havuzu formu eğitim yönetimi, ölçme değerlendirme ve Türk Dili edebiyatı uzmanlarının değerlendirmelerine sunulmuştur. Uzman görüşlerine göre, 31 madde havuzundan çıkarılmış, 3 madde düzenlenmiştir. Böylelikle 49 maddelik ölçek formu hazırlanmıştır. Form, pilot uygulama için 25 öğretmene uygulanmış, bu süreçte 2 madde ölçekten çıkarılarak 47 maddelik deneme formu elde edilmiştir. Deneme formu, 2023-2024 eğitim öğretim yılında İstanbul’daki devlet okullarında çalışan 492 öğretmene uygulanmıştır. Öğretmenlerden elde edilen veriler üzerinde Açımlayıcı Faktör Analizi (AFA) yapılmış ve analiz sonucunda 16 madde ölçekten çıkarılmıştır. Analiz sonucuna göre iki alt faktörden oluşan 31 maddelik ölçek formuna ulaşılmıştır. Bunu takiben ölçek formu, doğrulayıcı faktör analizi için 2023-2024 eğitim öğretim yılında İstanbul’daki devlet okullarında görev yapan 332 öğretmene uygulanmıştır. Elde edilen verilerle Doğrulayıcı Faktör Analizi (DFA) gerçekleştirilmiş ve ölçeğin iki faktörlü yapısı doğrulanmıştır. Önerilen modifikasyon işlemlerinin yapılmasından sonra elde edilen uyum indeksi değerleri; [χ2/df=2.87 (p=.000); RMSEA=.077; NFI=.90; CFI=.89; AGFI=.81; GFI=.82; SRMR=.068] olarak belirlenmiştir. Bu değerler, modelin gözlenen yapıya uygunluğunu göstermektedir. Ölçeğin güvenirliği için hesaplanan Cronbach Alfa güvenirlik katsayısı .944 olarak belirlenmiştir. Sonuç olarak Bürokratik Okul Kültürü Ölçeği’nin geçerli ve güvenilir bir ölçme aracı olduğu ortaya konmuştur.
Çoklu Zekâ Kuramı Bağlamında Türkçe Dersi Okuma Etkinliklerinin İncelenmesi
Authors: ESER Rabia Sena , İPEK Yağmur
Published: January 2025

Bu çalışmanın amacı 5. sınıf Türkçe ders kitabında yer alan okuma metinlerine bağlı etkinliklerin çoklu zekâ kuramına uygunluğuna bakıp en fazla ve en az yer verilen zekâ alanlarını tespit etmektir. Bu amacı gerçekleştirmek için nitel araştırma yöntemlerinden doküman incelemesi kullanılmıştır. Araştırma materyali olarak 5. sınıf Türkçe ders kitabı (Koza Yayıncılık) seçilmiştir. İncelenen ders kitabında 24 okuma metni bulunmaktadır. Bu metinlere bağlı 218 etkinliğin incelenmesi sonucunda, en çok sözel zekâ alanının kullanıldığı belirlenmiştir. Sözel zekâdan sonra ise mantıksal, sosyal, görsel, bireysel, kinestetik ve doğacı zekâ alanları bu sırayı takip etmektedir. Bununla birlikte bazı etkinlikler birden fazla zekâ alanına ait özelliği içerisinde barındırmaktadır. Etkinliklerin 210 tanesi sözel, 111’i mantıksal, 50’si sosyal, 36’sı görsel, 15’i bireysel, 9’u kinestetik ve 4’ü doğacı zekâ türüne hitap etmektedir. Müzikal/ritmik zekâ alanına ise hiç yer verilmemiştir. Ders kitabındaki etkinliklerin geçmişte kullanılan ders kitaplarının önüne geçmediği sonucundan ve öğretim programında yer alan teknoloji kullanımı ile ilgili ifadelerden hareketle etkinliklerin oluşturulmasında yapay zekâ gibi araçlardan yararlanılabileceği önerilmiştir. Sunulan öneriler doğrultusunda müzikal ve görsel zekâ alanına ait etkinlik örnekleri geliştirilmiştir.