bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessing Education Quality in Secondary Schools of Yem Zone, Central Ethiopia
Authors: Jobir Tesmamu , Regassa Tadesse
Published: January 2025

This qualitative case study assessed the status of education quality in three government secondary schools in the Yem Zone, Central Ethiopia, exploring the perspectives of principals, teachers, and students. The study was grounded in a constructivist paradigm, acknowledging the subjective realities of the participants. Data was collected through semi-structured interviews, focus group discussions, and observations, analyzed using a deductive thematic approach. Findings revealed that education quality was poor, hampered by a complex interplay of input, process, and output factors. Key challenges identified included a scarcity of teaching and learning resources, such as textbooks, laboratory facilities, and qualified teachers in certain subjects. The teaching-learning process primarily relied on traditional, teacher-centered methods, further hindered by teachers' limited classroom management skills. Students exhibited low academic performance in national examinations, though classroom grades were generally good. Factors contributing to poor education quality encompassed inadequate educational inputs, ineffective teaching practices, and low motivation among both teachers and students. The study recommends urgent interventions, including the provision of essential resources, improvement of teacher training programs, and strategies to enhance teacher and student motivation. These findings highlight the need for a holistic approach to improving education quality, addressing not just assessment outcomes but also the underlying factors influencing student learning.
From Activism to Collective Remembrance: The Transforming Rhetoric of Campaign Slogans in the #BringBackOurGirls Online Movement on Twitter
Authors: Datiri Blessing
Published: January 2025

This paper explores the evolution of slogans and hashtags in the #BringBackOurGirls online campaign, seven years after the abduction of 276 schoolgirls in Chibok, Northeastern Nigeria. It highlights the shift from an urgent call to activism to a broader focus on collective memory. An Aristotelian rhetorical analysis of tweets from 2015 to 2021 identifies two distinct rhetorical contexts in the memory activism of the BBOG campaigns. The first frame embodies hope, resilience, and recovery, exemplified by slogans like “Hope Endures,” “Never to be Forgotten,” and “Until All Are Free.” The second frame underscores accountability and responsibility, with slogans such as “No More Excuses” and “No More Delays.” Findings suggest that slogans in memory activism play a pivotal role in expressing the collective memory and shared experiences of a group within socio-political movements. They act as emotional principles, encapsulating community sentiments and aspirations. This shift fosters unity and purpose among members who collectively advocate for accountable governance. By linking personal narratives with collective history, these slogans ensure that the struggles and resilience of affected communities are remembered and preserved over time. This research ultimately deepens the understanding of how slogans and hashtags shape the legacy of online campaigns, underscoring the significance of memory in the ongoing pursuit of justice and accountability.
Mathematics Achievement in Women With and Without ADHD: Childhood Predictors and Developmental Trajectories Into Adulthood
Authors: Henry Laura N. , Gross Rachel A. , Hinshaw Stephen P.
Published: January 2025

Youth with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) often exhibit impairments in mathematics, but long-term math development into adulthood, particularly in females, is underexplored. We characterized trajectories of math achievement in girls with ADHD and an age- and ethnicity-matched comparison sample from childhood through early adulthood across four waves and examined childhood cognitive predictors (global executive functioning, working memory, processing speed) of trajectories. The ethnically and socioeconomically diverse sample comprised 140 girls with carefully diagnosed ADHD and 88 neurotypicals, ages 6 to 12 years at baseline. Using latent growth curve models, we examined predictors of 16-year math achievement trajectories. In both the ADHD and neurotypical groups, scores declined over time; rates of change did not differ significantly. Yet in the ADHD sample, math difficulties (defined as scores at least 1 SD below the national average) increased notably over time, with many such difficulties emerging after childhood. By adulthood, nearly half of women with ADHD exhibited clear math difficulties. Worse baseline global executive functioning predicted slower math growth over time. Girls with ADHD may benefit from math supports before concerns emerge or worsen after childhood. Additional research on preventive interventions for math difficulties, including investigation of executive functioning, is warranted.
“My Debts to Society Paid in Full”: An In-Depth Analysis of Volunteers’ Last Words
Authors: James Tierra A.
Published: January 2025

Since the 1976 Gregg v. Georgia decision, everyone sentenced to death in the U.S. has automatic appeals to ensure that no procedural errors exist in the condemned person’s capital case. However, approximately 10% of executions since 1976 have involved an individual or “volunteer” who waived their remaining appeals to their death sentence, which inevitably expedited their execution. Scholars have since explored the legality of “volunteering” for execution and why they would make this decision. To date, no study has exclusively analyzed the final statements of executed volunteers. This study seeks to bridge the gap between our knowledge about this population from court records and their final statements before execution. Final statements can give researchers another way to understand this population, notably their last thoughts, and would generally expand our knowledge of this relatively small population.
Associations Between Vocational Interests and Personality “Beyond” the Big-Five
Authors: Dargan Sereena , Carrier Nicole , Schermer Julie Aitken
Published: January 2025

This investigation explores the relationships between vocational interests and personality dimensions suggested to be “beyond” the Big Five or Five Factor Model. Participants (653 adults; 125 men and 528 women, with a mean age of 40.57 years, SD = 16.61, range 18–92) provided data on the 10 personality dimensions of the Supernumerary Personality Inventory (SPI; Paunonen, 2002), along with the 34 scales (27 work interests and seven work style preference scales) of the Jackson Career Inventory. Several significant associations, such as negative correlations between conventionality and an interest in the arts, negative correlations between femininity and an interest in science, positive correlations between humorous and an interest in nature/adventure/medicine, and positive correlations between manipulativeness and an interest in business were identified bringing to light new perspectives on how personality relates to different occupational roles and styles. The findings stress the importance of employing diverse personality and vocational interest measures to provide a more holistic view of associations between personality and career preferences. Limitations and future research are discussed.
Compression behavior of sectioned spacer fabrics by sewing seams: Experimental and numerical investigation
Authors: Schmidt Ann-Malin , Pietsch Kathrin , Kyosev Yordan
Published: January 2025

Spacer fabrics are 3D technical textiles. Their compressibility can be adjusted during production, e.g. by changing the machine parameters or using different yarn materials. These steps require extensive knowledge of the production process and are difficult to change. This research takes an innovative approach to influence the compression behavior individually. It introduces the concept of creating locally sectioned spacer fabrics through sewing. The compression behavior of these fabrics, with seam distances of 43 mm, 24 mm, and 18 mm, was thoroughly tested and evaluated. A two-step numerical model was developed to accurately predict the compression behavior of these spacer fabrics with seams. The model’s validity was confirmed through experimental compression tests. The results show that spacer fabrics with a larger number of seams absorb compressive forces less. The numerical model agrees well with the experimental results and proves its applicability. Using the numerical model seam patterns for larger spacer fabrics can be tested and individual modified spacer fabrics can be produced.
Investigating the aging behavior of HNBR seal elements in high-pressure high-temperature wellbore environments exposed to H2S and CO2
Authors: Rahmati Hamid , Mahdavi Basir Mohamad Hassan , Dashti Ali
Published: January 2025

Widely employed as a seal element in the oil and gas industry, understanding the aging behavior of Hydrogenated Nitrile Butadiene Rubber (HNBR) is crucial for both theoretical and practical advancements. This study investigates the degradation mechanisms of peroxide-cured HNBR compounds exposed to H2S and CO2 in a simulated environment at elevated pressure and temperature. Prior to accelerated aging, the mechanical properties and chemical structure of the samples were evaluated . Subsequently, the compounds were subjected to harsh aging conditions in Hc-A (5% vol. H2S and 20% vol. CO2) and Hc-B (20% vol. H2S and 5% vol. CO2) environments at high-pressure/high-temperature (HPHT) conditions of 6.9 MPa and 121°C, respectively. Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy revealed significant changes in the molecular structure of the aged HNBR samples, resulting in increased swelling, reduced density of -C≡N groups and double bonds, additive migration, and a weakened reinforcing effect of carbon black. Furthermore, the study observed notable changes in the mechanical properties, including increased mass, volume, and elongation at break, but decreased hardness, modulus, ultimate tensile strength, and compression set compared to virgin samples. Notably, the results highlight the dominant influence of CO2 in the simultaneous sour gas immersion test on the structure-property relationship of the aged HNBR samples.
Metastatic mineralization and renal intratubular crystals associated with hard drinking water in guinea pigs
Authors: Milletsever Adem , Ozmen Ozlem
Published: January 2025

This report describes cardiovascular and renal soft tissue mineralization and renal intratubular crystals in 13 out of 16 guinea pigs that were given very hard drinking water for 9 months. These animals, aged 14 to 20 months, were experimentally naïve. No clinical symptoms were observed, but 1 guinea pig was found dead in its cage. Necropsy did not reveal any gross findings; however, histologic examination revealed mineralization and crystal formations. Despite no known changes in the feed sourcing or formulation, the possibility that the incident was feed-related was considered. The most recent analysis of the feed obtained from the manufacturer during this period, which was conducted by an accredited laboratory authorized by the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry, was appropriate. No similar lesions were reported at other centers using the same feed; however, drinking water analysis for total dissolved solids revealed extremely hard water, with elevated levels of calcium and calcium carbonate and low magnesium levels, due to a malfunctioning water treatment system. After installing a new system to balance calcium and magnesium, no new cases appeared over the next 2 years. It was determined that the mineralization and crystal formations were most likely caused by water hardness. This study demonstrates that mineralization typically attributed to feed in guinea pigs can also result from high calcium content in drinking water, highlighting the importance of water analysis in such cases.
The Art of Tourism
Authors: Schwirck Samantha
Published: January 2025

A historic bank becomes a combination museum and boutique hotel
Connected Lighting: Lessons from a Living Lab
Authors: Taylor Ruth , Bryan Mary Matteson
Published: January 2025

Twelve systems in 12 classrooms at The New School were evaluated
The Price of Admission to the Digits. Revolution
Authors: Seeger Kelly
Published: January 2025

Fewer, simpler and more meaningful rules could speed the transition to connected lighting
One Hundred Reasons to Celebrate
Authors: Tarricone Paul
Published: January 2025

At the push of a button, San Francisco City Hall has a lighting scene ready for any occasion.. .starting with its centennial
To Infinity and Beyond
Authors: Nale Katie
Published: January 2025

Soft lighting and curved architectural elements make a Canadian Samsung Experience Store an oasis of tranquility in the middle of a bustling city
Banking on a New Look
Authors: Schwirck Samantha
Published: January 2025

The Queen City's tallest tower reestablishes its status as the skyline's crown
Pedestrian Pop
Authors: Tarricone Paul
Published: January 2025

Two footbridges in very different locales add a splash of panache to their respective scenery
Book Review
Authors: Oberkircher Fred
Published: January 2025

AI Superpowers: China, Silicon Valley, and the New World Order By Kai-Fu Lee
Energy
Authors: Warren Willard L.
Published: January 2025

Another Game Changer? Will laser white light be the industry's next light-emitting diode?
Controls
Authors: Meshberg Gary
Published: January 2025

A New Tool for Quality The business case for controls, beyond energy
Standards
Authors: Liebel Brian
Published: January 2025

The Constitution of Consensus A peek behind the curtain of the standards-writing process
Energy
Authors: Warren Willard
Published: January 2025

A World of Difference From China to Copenhagen, lighting priorities fall into line
The Studio Office
Authors: Nale Katie
Published: January 2025

How a former pen factory transformed into a multipurpose media hub
Challenging the Circadian Metric
Authors: Ashdown Ian
Published: January 2025

Organizations are working toward translating knowledge about circadian lighting into design standards. One engineer has questions
Policy
Authors: Baker Alex
Published: January 2025

A Few Minutes With Title 24 What would Rooney or Seinfeld say about code changes?
How's Business?
Authors: Schwirck Samantha
Published: January 2025

Two surveys reveal the early impact of coronavirus on lighting design professionals and AEC firms
DC Lighting Systems Evaluation
Authors: Harper Andrew , Graeber Keith
Published: January 2025

The majority of building power distribution systems use alternating current (AC) sourced from a power grid. This significantly influences the design of direct current (DC) appliances including LED light sources and digital controls. With the proliferation of DC devices as standard design elements across many building technology categories, the interest in DC power distribution systems has increased significantly. In theory, DC power distribution can increase overall electrical system efficiency by eliminating losses associated with multiple AC-to-DC conversions. Therefore, centralized power supplies that support larger connected loads can be more efficient than distributed power supplies when powering the same total electrical load.1 This increase in efficiency translates directly to reduced energy use and increased operational cost savings.
Energy
Authors: Warren Willard
Published: January 2025

Remaining Relevant Lighting systems shouldn't be based on the best ‘package deal’
Inside Out
Authors: Nale Katie
Published: January 2025

At Columbia College Chicago, a lighting plan matches the creativity of its students, while connecting them to the world at large
Education
Authors: Musselman Brienne
Published: January 2025

The Joy of Micro-bites Learning in small chunks can also satisfy the hunger for knowledge
Carving Out a Place for History
Authors: Schwirck Samantha
Published: January 2025

Concealed, indirect sources transform a centuries-old campus building into a gathering space with museum-quality lighting
Policy
Authors: Baker Alex
Published: January 2025

The IES Goes to Washington All the ‘hallowed halls’ where we make our mark
Coloring outside the Lines
Authors: Casey Craig
Published: January 2025

‘Inside-the-box’ applications such as warm dimming and eye-catching façades are well established, but the true power of dynamic lighting lies in more unconventional uses. Here are five examples
Seeking New Weapons against Microbial Foes
Authors: Brons Jennifer , Frering Daniel
Published: January 2025

The world seems small lately, and not just because the walls are closing in during COVID lockdown. In the year since SARS-CoV-2 encircled the globe, we have all been learning about microscopic pathogens, searching for ways we can contribute to the battle of the mega against J the micro. Literature from decades past demonstrate the fundamentals of how ultraviolet (UV) irradiation can be used to disinfect our interior spaces. While decades of research have shown the effectiveness of conventional, low pressure discharge lamps that generate UV-C, what about other wavelengths, or some of the new technologies?
Energy
Authors: Warren Willard
Published: January 2025

Act One Setting the stage for LD+A's anniversary celebration
SSL
Authors: Baker Jess , Wilkerson Andrea
Published: January 2025

The Circadian Design Balancing Act Lessons from a pandemic-shortened office study
SSL
Authors: Collier Jessica
Published: January 2025

Senior Care Retrofits Offer Lessons A review of four centers
Long-term Complications From Peripheral Nerve Blocks After Pediatric Orthopaedic Lower Extremity Procedures: A Systematic Review
Authors: Trivedi Sunny M. , Wahle Charlotte F. , Mao Yifan V. , Wraich Dimpy , Shea Kevin G. , Sadacharam Kesavan , Stinson Zachary , Ellington Matthew , Niu Emily , Williams Brendan , Patel Neeraj , Ellis Henry , Crepeau Allison , Vanderhave Kelly , Carsen Sasha , Mayer Stephanie , Pennock Andy , Vandenberg Curtis , Beck Jennifer J.
Published: January 2025

Background:

Peripheral nerve blocks (PNBs) are frequently utilized as a regional anesthetic in pediatric orthopaedic surgery for postoperative pain control and reduced time to discharge; however, short- and long-term complications after these procedures are variably reported.

Purpose:

To identify the frequency of long-term complications in pediatric patients who received regional anesthesia for a lower extremity orthopaedic procedure.

Study Design:

Systematic review; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods:

A systematic literature search was performed using the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines. Data were collected on pediatric patients, which included the following: block type, block location, procedure type, patient age, experimental design, and reported outcomes. Full texts were then thoroughly examined to determine whether the article made specific references to long-term (≥6 weeks) complications in pediatric patients who received PNBs.

Results:

A total of 158 studies were assessed for eligibility. There were 16 of 158 (10%) studies that met inclusion criteria of having a discussion on follow-up to evaluate for long-term complications (≥6 weeks) from pediatric PNBs. Of these 16 studies, 9 documented long-term complications, while 7 reported no complications. The most common complications were motor deficits, chronic pain, reduced range of motion, and neurological paresthesia. Of the 9 studies reporting long-term complications related to PNBs, 16 of 352 patients across 2 studies (5%) reported chronic pain, 45 of 466 patients across 4 studies (10%) reported strength deficits, 16 of 135 patients across 2 studies (12%) reported reduced range of motion, and 11 of 15,387 patients across 4 studies (0.07%) reported sensory deficits.

Conclusion:

Persistent complications occurred in pediatric orthopaedic patients undergoing lower extremity procedures with PNBs; however, reports in the current literature were rare.
Study on the durability of film adhesively bonded composite joints subjected to environmental aging
Authors: Alkoç Ahmetcan , Hazar Yoruç Afife Binnaz , Bakır Mete , Uşak Adem Can
Published: January 2025

The research aims to illustrate the effectiveness of Atmospheric Pressure Plasma Treatment (APLT) activation in enhancing durability in achieving high performance for Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polymer (CFRP) adhesively bonded joints. The study addresses several crucial aspects, encompassing the surface characterization of different treated CFRP surfaces and durability Wedge Test performance assessments under severe environmental conditions for 576h. To attain this objective, the parameters of APLT were examined alongside chemical isopropanol cleaning and peel-ply methods, considering chemical surface characteristics, as well as the performance of joints under environmental conditions. Observations have indicated that APLT facilitates the formation of polar functional groups with increased oxygen content, improving wettability, and leading to substantial enhancements in durability. Finally, findings from the Wedge Test revealed that APLT demonstrates remarkable endurance under elevated temperature/wet aging conditions. It displayed superior resistance to crack formation and limited propagation, thereby preserving higher fracture toughness energy.
Identifying Challenges Related to the Management of Comorbidities in People with Dementia in Residential Care: Expert Delphi Consensus Exercise
Authors: Sabatini Serena , Hawes Frances , Eluigwe Kelechi , Tang Eugene Y. H.
Published: January 2025

Improving early detection, management, and treatment of comorbid conditions to dementia in residential care could slow down cognitive and functional decline, and increase residents’ quality of life. We conducted a Delphi study comprising three rounds (two surveys and an interview) to identify the most difficult dementia comorbidities to deal with in residential care and related issues. Participants were 15 UK-based experts including academics, residential care workers, geriatricians, and neuropsychologists. In the first-round of the Delphi, experts mentioned 15 comorbid health conditions to dementia and 19 issues. In the following rounds of the Delphi mental illnesses, delirium, and sensory impairments were identified as the most difficult comorbidities to dementia to deal with. Medication management, symptom management, shortage of staff, lack of training among staff, and limited resources from the broader healthcare system were identified as the most difficult issues when dealing with dementia comorbidities.
Variations in State Essential Caregiver Programs for Nursing Homes During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Li Yue , Maeng Daniel , Lee H. Benjamin , Jia Yusheng , Cai Xueya
Published: January 2025

Background: During 2020–21, states established essential caregiver (EC) programs which allowed nursing home residents to receive in-person supports during the COVID-19 pandemic. This study presents comparative data on the designs of these programs. Methods: We conducted on-line searches for federal and states’ nursing home visitation and reopening guidelines published in 2020–22. We also compared differences between states with and without an EC program in COVID-19 infection and death rates among nursing home residents or the general population, nursing home staff shortage rates, and rankings on restrictiveness of social distancing policies. Among states with an EC program, we summarized key program characteristics. Results: Twenty states established nursing home EC program from late 2020 to early 2021. Compared to states without an EC program, states with the program had slightly higher COVID-19 infection rate but slightly lower COVID-19 death rate, similar nurse staffing and nursing aids shortage rates in nursing homes, and somewhat lower rankings on the restrictiveness of social distancing measures. Compared to CMS guidelines that banned indoor visits to nursing homes under defined circumstances from March 2020 to November 2021, state EC programs were much less restrictive in specifying caregiver visits, for example, visits were allowed when county COVID-19 positivity rate>10% (18 programs), when the resident was not vaccinated (20 programs), or when the nursing home was in a COVID-19 outbreak (13 programs). However, state EC programs might still prohibit EC visits in certain situations, such as when the resident was in transmission-based precautions (13 programs), that is, when the resident had a confirmed COVID-19 infection, had COVID-19 symptoms although not yet confirmed, or was in observation for developing COVID-19 infection in the 14 days of nursing home (re)admission. Conclusion: States with and without a nursing home EC program did not differ appreciably in COVID-19 infection and death rates, or staffing shortage rates in nursing homes, although states with an EC program might have slightly less restrictive social distancing policies. State EC programs varied substantially in key designs. Comparative evaluations are needed to understand the effectiveness of these programs.
Toward a Sociology of Democratic Truth-Telling
Authors: Gøtzsche-Astrup Johan
Published: January 2025

The erosion of truth-telling is central to discussions of democratic decline. However, these discussions often gloss over how democratic truth-telling is constituted as a practice. I develop the concept of democratic alethurgies to tackle this problem by drawing on civil sphere theory and Foucauldian studies of truth-telling. Focusing on practices of critique, I situate democratic truth-telling within a discourse that contrasts curious, courageous, and open-minded democratic actors with incurious, cowardly, and closed-minded undemocratic ones. This discourse is inflected in different prescriptions for how the truth-teller should discover the truth, wield it, and relate to their public audience. I develop this approach through a comparison of the truth-telling of journalists and activists. The concept of democratic alethurgies provides a framework for analyzing democratic truth-telling and generates an empirically rooted vocabulary that reframes discussions of democratic decline.
Past 30-Day Cannabis Use by Perception of Risk and Age Group: Implications for Prevention
Authors: Burrow-Sánchez Jason J. , Cohen Allison
Published: January 2025

Purpose

The use of cannabis is an important public health concern in the United States. The connection between perceived risk and cannabis use has been documented in the substance use literature for youth and adults.

Design

Examine how past 30-day cannabis use is influenced by the interaction between perceived risk and age.

Subjects

Nationally representative sample of individuals ages 12 and older in the United States.

Measures

Secondary data analysis of the 2021 National Survey on Drug Use and Health (N = 58, 034).

Analysis

Binary logistic regression that included the complex sampling elements of the survey.

Results

Support was found for an interaction between age and perceived risk. Most notably, the sharpest increase in the probability of cannabis use occurred between the 12-17 and 18-25 year-old age groups for no/low risk perception.

Conclusion

Addressing the perceived risk of cannabis use at younger ages – specifically adolescence – may be an important prevention strategy for later cannabis use. Results directly inform preventive interventions regarding by indicating the age groups that at are at a higher probability for using cannabis based on perceived risk levels. This study adds to the literature by directly testing an interaction between perceived risk and age on the probability of using cannabis in the past 30-days at the population level.
Optimizing Tibia implants: Comparative study of lattice designs and material performance under gait cycles
Authors: Azadani Meysam Nasr , Narayanan Nandhu , Ramachandran Karthikeyan , Gnanasagaran Constance L
Published: January 2025

This study advances orthopaedic implant design by examining the impact of lattice structures on gait cycles and integrating biomimicry principles for superior patient outcomes. Using Finite Element Analysis (FEA), three lattice designs; Face Centred Cubic (FCC), Body Centred Cubic (BCC), and a hybrid Face-Body Centred Cubic (FBCC) were evaluated with materials including Ni-Ti Shape Memory Alloy, TNTZ Alloy, and AZ91D Alloy for its suitability in orthopaedic implants. AZ91D emerged as the optimal material based on compression analysis, offering the best balance of strength and weight. Tibia bone implants made from AZ91D were tested under various gait cycle conditions, including loading-level knee bending, 20% bending, and 30% bending, where the FBCC structure outperformed others due to its enhanced load transfer capabilities. Porosity effects were analysed by varying strut diameters between 0.3 mm and 0.6 mm, resulting in a 40% stiffness difference compared to natural bone, affirming its suitability for biomimetic applications. This innovative approach achieves an ∼86% weight reduction compared to titanium-based implants, significantly enhancing comfort, reducing physical strain, and improving mobility for amputees. By leveraging advanced topology optimisation and material science, this research provides valuable insights into lightweight and high-performance orthopaedic implant development.
Intelligent ultrasonic testing on industrial equipment for remanufacturing
Authors: Wang Zezhong
Published: January 2025

Industrial equipment, such as dies and moulds, needs inspections in remanufacturing, which is an essential option for implementing circular economy in manufacturing industry. To automate inspection methods such as ultrasonic testing(UT), a robotic arm can be used to inspect with better safety and precision. However, there are some challenges in robot control, for example, orientation control and moving speed adaptive control. In this study, a model-based method will be used to control the orientation of the end-effector of the robotic arm based only on contact forces. A 6 DOF force/torque sensor measures contact force/torque between the end-effector and the surface. A control software platform based on robot operation system (ROS) is established to control the trajectory of robot both in simulation and real-world from scratch. Moreover, a reinforcement learning (RL) algorithm is implemented to optimise the trajectory, that is, the orientation control, the moving speed and position control, during the surface scanning between each waypoint. The proposed method is verified in the simulation environment, and it can be used in real-world robotic UT.
Healthcare Organisational Culture: Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Bawa Ramneek Kelsang
Published: January 2025

Two decades of literature published in SCOPUS-listed journals from 2001 to 2021 were analysed for the systematic literature review. Seminal articles were selected through the application of PRISMA-S checklist. A proposal for succeeding research is provided through the application of Theory, Construct, Context and Methods (TCCM) tool on the integration of the selected papers generating a conceptual framework for strategising healthcare organisational culture (HOC) in the era of HR 5.0. The observed research gaps were a lack of qualitative research on primary and secondary HOC and a scarcity of research on the prevailing HOCs in the Asian region (India). A lack of study on strategically utilising organizational culture for better human resource activities in the period of HR 5.0 in healthcare organisations was observed through the literature analysis.
A Comparative Study of the Clinical Risk Management of Public and Private Hospitals in Ghana
Authors: AsewehAbor Patience
Published: January 2025

This study employs a multiple case methodology to compare the clinical risk management of public and private hospitals in Ghana. The results of the study reveal that both public and private hospitals in Ghana have clinical risk management policies which comply with the World Health Organization policy on patient safety. However, clinical risk management practices differ in the two types of hospitals. The public hospital was challenged with institutional culture and leadership, resource constraints as well as complex working environment. In the case of the private hospital, the challenge is in respect of structure, which tends to constrain the implementation of clinical risk management practices. A policy framework for effective and efficient clinical risk management is essential in reducing risks to patients, as well as addressing identified gaps in risk management practices across both hospital types as a measure of quality improvement.
Health Gain Provided by Individual Care Plans
Authors: Guarducci Giovanni , Messina Gabriele , Panichella Francesca , Gentile Anna Maria , Dionisi Lorenzo , Nante Nicola
Published: January 2025

Putting the patients at the centre of all care processes also means sharing goals and achievements with them. In this context, outcome measurement is fundamental to the evaluation of healthcare provided. The aim of the study was to measure the health gain procured for patients admitted in a solvent ward of a private clinic. A retrospective study was conducted on 137 patients admitted in a private hospital from March 2018 to March 2020. To measure the health gains, we used individual care plans, EQ-5D-5L, Cumulative Illness Rating Scale and quality-adjusted life years (QALY). Statistical analysis was carried out through STATA. Our sample (62.8% females) was 82[15] years old. The median hospital stay was 16[17] days. Patients had a gain of 0.14[0.19] QALY: this was greater ( p < .05) for females than males (0.15[0.19] vs. 0.12[0.14]). No difference ( p > .05) was observed between patients with a different clinical severity. The QALY values obtained, and its economic evaluation measure the ability of the private clinic to ‘produce health’.
Intranasal Dexmedetomidine for Procedural Sedation in Infants: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Dini Gianluca , Celi Federica , Santini Maria Grazia , Semeraro Carla Maria
Published: January 2025

Background

Infants undergoing magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) often require pharmacological sedation. Dexmedetomidine is an alpha-2 receptor agonist frequently used to sedate children and infants because the neonatologist can easily adjust the sedation depth, the patient maintains spontaneous breathing and awakens rapidly afterwards.

Objective

This study evaluates whether dexmedetomidine can be safely used as the sole sedative for preterm and term-born infants less than 80 weeks of postmenstrual age (PMA) undergoing diagnostic procedures.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective, single-center analysis of 50 preterm and term-born infants (<80 weeks PMA) who were sedated with dexmedetomidine for brain MRI from October 2019 to March 2024.

Results

Successful imaging was achieved in all cases. The median dexmedetomidine loading dose was 2.75 µg/kg (range: 2-4 µg/kg). Bradycardia was observed in four out of 50 patients (8%), but none required atropine.

Conclusions

These results suggest that dexmedetomidine can be safely used for procedural sedation in the high-risk cohort of preterm and term-born infants less than 80 weeks PMA.
Adjusting data input speed in a human-computer interface system controlled by eye gaze and electroencephalography data
Authors: Ngo Thi Duyen , Nguyen Luu Tu , Le Thanh Ha
Published: January 2025

Background

The eye-tracking-based communication systems open up opportunities for interaction in the lives of many patients with severe motor impairments. In these systems, users need to focus their gaze on a key until it is fully entered. However, these systems are not truly refined in terms of design and interaction efficiency, and they may still cause discomfort for users, such as eye strain or typing errors. Some solutions have been proposed to address this issue, but so far, no comprehensive solution has been found.

Objective

In this research, we have proposed a novel method to adjust data inputting speed in human-computer interfaces controlled by eye gaze and electroencephalography (EEG) data.

Methods

It combines EEG data to extract the user’s attention level. We then flexibly adjust the time users need to keep their gaze on a key on the system and personalize the user experience using their own data. This approach aims to enhance interaction efficiency by increasing interaction speed while maintaining accuracy. We evaluated this method on an eye-tracking-based spelling communication system for Vietnamese people, proposed by our team, involving 20 healthy individuals and 4 people with motor function impairments.

Results

The results indicated that communication speed through the system increased by 20–80% for participants, and not only did the time improve, but the communication effectiveness also increased linearly. This outcome was achieved for both healthy individuals and patients.

Conclusions

Through experimentation, we have demonstrated the feasibility and effectiveness of our approach, showing improvements in typing speed over successive trials. This result is highly meaningful as it optimizes dwell time and interaction efficiency in the ET-based system without having to compromise by increasing the error rate when directly reducing dwell time.
Design for lean 5.0: Integrating lean requirements and parameters into production systems in an industry 5.0 context
Authors: Gdoura Rami , Houssin Rémy , Dhouib Diala , Coulibaly Amadou
Published: January 2025

To meet evolving customer expectations, companies need to take into consideration most challenging requirements. To help designers meet these increased needs, various methodologies, known as “Design for X (DfX)”, have been created. Nowadays, companies rely on a conventional view of Lean application during the use phase to integrate new requirements: let the system produce, detect wastes, then apply Lean tools to remedy them. However, this solution confront several limitations and constraints such as the initial design of the existing system, time and cost of implementing new Lean tools and resistance to change, etc. This implies a change of mindset by proactively integrate Lean requirements from the design phase. This paper aims to support designers in improving the overall performance of production systems by designing Leanless (Minimal Lean application required) sustainable, adaptable systems with minimal waste and human-centered considerations. For this purpose, we have analyzed Lean principles and tools in an Industry 5.0 context in the aim to extract a set of Lean requirements and parameters in line with Industry 5.0 principles. In addition, we have conducted a literature review of 34 DfX methodologies and classified them into six categories: Production, maintenance, quality, sustainability, human-centricity and Resilience. For each category, we have identified the Lean requirements and parameters that meet its objectives. To assess Lean requirements and select the appropriate Lean tools to be integrated from the design phase, we recommend the use of Multi-Criteria Decision Making (MCDM) methods. In addition, this study proposes to take advantage of inventive design to resolve potential contradictions between Lean requirement parameters and technical parameters. This study can serve as a guide for designers, assisting them in considering various requirements that can enhance the performance of the system being designed.
Using Multiple Exemplar Training to Teach Basic Theory-of-Mind Skills to Adolescents With Autism Spectrum Disorder
Authors: Lian Fuxin , Lee Gabrielle T. , Long Yan , Ma Weina , Wang Mian
Published: January 2025

Adolescents with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) seem to have difficulty dealing with complex social situations, which is likely related to their challenges in understanding others’ perspectives, according to the Theory of Mind (ToM). The purpose of this preliminary study was to examine the effect of multiple exemplar training (MET) on the acquisition, maintenance, and generalization of basic theory-of-mind skills in three Chinese adolescents with ASD by employing a single-case, multiple-probe design. Results suggest that MET was effective in the acquisition and maintenance phases of training for improving all three participants’ target ToM skills and their ToM assessment scores. The participants also demonstrated increased appropriate social interactions and decreased inappropriate social interactions with peers during indoor recess, indicating that MET is effective in helping adolescents with ASD generalize ToM skills to natural settings.
Autoclaved aerated concrete reinforced with polymer pins as core of sandwich panels
Authors: Aramburu Arthur Behenck , Amico Sandro Campos , Delucis Rafael de Avila
Published: January 2025

Autoclaved aerated concrete (AAC) is a lightweight material with good thermal insulation and acoustic properties, but with relatively low mechanical strength that has limited its use in load-bearing applications. To overcome this issue, AAC was reinforced with polyester pins and used as the core of sandwich panels with glass fiber reinforced polymer (GFRP)-based faces. Three different core thicknesses (17, 35 and 50 mm) were tested, and the 6-mm diameter pins, molded in situ, were used at a 45° orientation. The combination of GFRP, AAC and polymer pins was studied through physical and mechanical analyses. A substantial increase in mechanical strength of AAC occurred when using GFRP as faces, with 11 times higher peak load compared to the original AAC. The introduction of pins leads to even more significant improvements, up to 138% in flatwise flexural properties and up to 62% in edgewise compression properties for the 50 mm core panel compared to unreinforced panels.
The peri-articular muscle envelope of the hip (PAME) shows atrophy in patients with refractory groin pain after iliopsoas tenotomy
Authors: Declercq Jonas , Vandeputte Frans-Jozef , Clinckemaillie Guillaume , Roose Stijn , Timmermans Annick , Corten Kristoff
Published: January 2025

Background:

Iliopsoas tenotomy is commonly used to address refractory groin pain resulting from iliopsoas tendinopathy. However, consensus and high-level research on its effectiveness are lacking, with concerns about poor outcomes and complications. Little is known of the effects of iliopsoas tenotomy on the peri-articular muscle envelope of the hip. As the iliopsoas loses its function as the most important hip flexor, the rectus femoris takes over its function, which makes the rectus prone to tendinopathy.

Methods:

A retrospective review of patients ( n  = 17) undergoing iliopsoas tenotomy between January 2016 and January 2021 was conducted. Pelvic MRI scans were evaluated for muscle quality and volume using a Quartile classification system and cross-sectional area (CSA) measurements. Reliability tests determined the most consistent reference points. Statistical analyses assessed changes between ipsilateral and contralateral sides.

Results:

Following iliopsoas tenotomy, significant reduced cross sectional area was seen in the psoas, iliacus, gluteus minimus, gluteus maximus, rectus femoris, piriformis, obturator internus and obturator externus. Significant increased fatty degeneration was seen in the psoas, iliacus, gluteus minimus, tensor fascia latae, piriformis, obturator internus and obturator externus. The gluteus medius was the only muscle where no difference was seen in the cross sectional area or the fatty degeneration. 15 patients (88%) presented with rectus tendinopathy and 8 of these patients had a surgical debridement of the rectus femoris.

Conclusions:

Our findings reveal that patients with persistent groin pain following iliopsoas tenotomy exhibit changes in the peri-articular muscle envelope, displaying atrophy or fatty degeneration in all muscles except the gluteus medius. Awareness of potential risks is crucial when contemplating iliopsoas tenotomy. Persistent groin pain after iliopsoas tenotomy may be linked to secondary rectus femoris tendinopathy. Caution is recommended in the consideration of iliopsoas tenotomy for patients with pre-existing iliopsoas tendinopathy.
Adaptive Treatment of Metastatic Prostate Cancer Using Generative Artificial Intelligence
Authors: Derbal Youcef
Published: January 2025

Despite the expanding therapeutic options available to cancer patients, therapeutic resistance, disease recurrence, and metastasis persist as hallmark challenges in the treatment of cancer. The rise to prominence of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) in many realms of human activities is compelling the consideration of its capabilities as a potential lever to advance the development of effective cancer treatments. This article presents a hypothetical case study on the application of generative pre-trained transformers (GPTs) to the treatment of metastatic prostate cancer (mPC). The case explores the design of GPT-supported adaptive intermittent therapy for mPC. Testosterone and prostate-specific antigen (PSA) are assumed to be repeatedly monitored while treatment may involve a combination of androgen deprivation therapy (ADT), androgen receptor-signalling inhibitors (ARSI), chemotherapy, and radiotherapy. The analysis covers various questions relevant to the configuration, training, and inferencing of GPTs for the case of mPC treatment with a particular attention to risk mitigation regarding the hallucination problem and its implications to clinical integration of GenAI technologies. The case study provides elements of an actionable pathway to the realization of GenAI-assisted adaptive treatment of metastatic prostate cancer. As such, the study is expected to help facilitate the design of clinical trials of GenAI-supported cancer treatments.
Biologic effects of interferons: relevance to multiple sclerosis
Authors: Rudick RA , Ransohoff RM
Published: January 2025

Recombinant interferon beta has established efficacy for relapsing–remitting MS, but the mechanisms of action in the disease are not well understood. Interferons (IFNs) mediate biologic effects by receptor-mediated gene activation. Binding by IFNs to high-affinity surface receptors results in physophorylation and activation of two cytoplasmic tyrosine kinases. This leads to activation of latent transcription factors in cell cytoplasm that translocate to the nucleus, where activated transcriptional elements interact with the interferon-stimulated response element (ISRE), leading to transcription of the interferon-stimulated genes (ISGs). IFN’s biologic effects are mediated by function of the ISGs. The biologic effects of IFNs have been classified as antiviral, antiproliferative and immunomodulatory; effects are complex, however, because there are two separate types of IFN, four separate varieties of type I IFN and approximately 30 known interferon-regulated genes. Known effects of IFN that may plausibly relate to therapy efficacy in MS are discussed.