bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Empirical Evaluation of Prompting Strategies for Large Language Models in Zero-Shot Clinical Natural Language Processing: Algorithm Development and Validation Study
Authors: Sivarajkumar Sonish , Kelley Mark , Samolyk-Mazzanti Alyssa , Visweswaran Shyam , Wang Yanshan
Published: April 2024

Background

Large language models (LLMs) have shown remarkable capabilities in natural language processing (NLP), especially in domains where labeled data are scarce or expensive, such as the clinical domain. However, to unlock the clinical knowledge hidden in these LLMs, we need to design effective prompts that can guide them to perform specific clinical NLP tasks without any task-specific training data. This is known as in-context learning, which is an art and science that requires understanding the strengths and weaknesses of different LLMs and prompt engineering approaches.

Objective

The objective of this study is to assess the effectiveness of various prompt engineering techniques, including 2 newly introduced types—heuristic and ensemble prompts, for zero-shot and few-shot clinical information extraction using pretrained language models.

Methods

This comprehensive experimental study evaluated different prompt types (simple prefix, simple cloze, chain of thought, anticipatory, heuristic, and ensemble) across 5 clinical NLP tasks: clinical sense disambiguation, biomedical evidence extraction, coreference resolution, medication status extraction, and medication attribute extraction. The performance of these prompts was assessed using 3 state-of-the-art language models: GPT-3.5 (OpenAI), Gemini (Google), and LLaMA-2 (Meta). The study contrasted zero-shot with few-shot prompting and explored the effectiveness of ensemble approaches.

Results

The study revealed that task-specific prompt tailoring is vital for the high performance of LLMs for zero-shot clinical NLP. In clinical sense disambiguation, GPT-3.5 achieved an accuracy of 0.96 with heuristic prompts and 0.94 in biomedical evidence extraction. Heuristic prompts, alongside chain of thought prompts, were highly effective across tasks. Few-shot prompting improved performance in complex scenarios, and ensemble approaches capitalized on multiple prompt strengths. GPT-3.5 consistently outperformed Gemini and LLaMA-2 across tasks and prompt types.

Conclusions

This study provides a rigorous evaluation of prompt engineering methodologies and introduces innovative techniques for clinical information extraction, demonstrating the potential of in-context learning in the clinical domain. These findings offer clear guidelines for future prompt-based clinical NLP research, facilitating engagement by non-NLP experts in clinical NLP advancements. To the best of our knowledge, this is one of the first works on the empirical evaluation of different prompt engineering approaches for clinical NLP in this era of generative artificial intelligence, and we hope that it will inspire and inform future research in this area.
Alarm Management in Intensive Care: Qualitative Triangulation Study
Authors: Mosch Lina , Sümer Meltem , Flint Anne Rike , Feufel Markus , Balzer Felix , Mörike Frauke , Poncette Akira-Sebastian
Published: April 2024

Background

The high number of unnecessary alarms in intensive care settings leads to alarm fatigue among staff and threatens patient safety. To develop and implement effective and sustainable solutions for alarm management in intensive care units (ICUs), an understanding of staff interactions with the patient monitoring system and alarm management practices is essential.

Objective

This study investigated the interaction of nurses and physicians with the patient monitoring system, their perceptions of alarm management, and smart alarm management solutions.

Methods

This explorative qualitative study with an ethnographic, multimethods approach was conducted in an ICU of a German university hospital. Using triangulation in data collection, 102 hours of field observations, 12 semistructured interviews with ICU staff members, and the results of a participatory task were analyzed. The data analysis followed an inductive, grounded theory approach.

Results

Nurses and physicians reported interacting with the continuous vital sign monitoring system for most of their work time and tasks. There were no established standards for alarm management; instead, nurses and physicians stated that alarms were addressed through ad hoc reactions, a practice they viewed as problematic. Staff members’ perceptions of intelligent alarm management varied, but they highlighted the importance of understandable and traceable suggestions to increase trust and cognitive ease.

Conclusions

Staff members’ interactions with the omnipresent patient monitoring system and its alarms are essential parts of ICU workflows and clinical decision-making. Alarm management standards and workflows have been shown to be deficient. Our observations, as well as staff feedback, suggest that changes are warranted. Solutions for alarm management should be designed and implemented with users, workflows, and real-world data at the core.
Guidelines for Patient-Centered Documentation in the Era of Open Notes: Qualitative Study (Preprint)
Authors: Vanka Anita , Johnston Katherine T , Delbanco Tom , DesRoches Catherine M , Garcia Annalays , Salmi Liz , Blease Charlotte
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND

Patients in the United States have recently gained federally mandated, free, and ready electronic access to clinicians’ computerized notes in their medical records (“open notes”). This change from longstanding practice can benefit patients in clinically important ways, but studies show some patients feel judged or stigmatized by words or phrases embedded in their records. Therefore, it is imperative that clinicians adopt documentation techniques that help both to empower patients and minimize potential harms.

OBJECTIVE

At a time when open and transparent communication among patients, families, and clinicians can spread more easily throughout medical practice, this inquiry aims to develop informed guidelines for documentation in medical records.

METHODS

Through a series of focus groups, preliminary guidelines for documentation language in medical records were developed by health professionals and patients. Using a structured focus group decision guide, we conducted 4 group meetings with different sets of 27 participants: physicians experienced with writing open notes (n=5), patients accustomed to reviewing their notes (n=8), medical student educators (n=7), and resident physicians (n=7). To generate themes, we used an iterative coding process. First-order codes were grouped into second-order themes based on the commonality of meanings.

RESULTS

The participants identified 10 important guidelines as a preliminary framework for developing notes sensitive to patients’ needs.

CONCLUSIONS

The process identified 10 discrete themes that can help clinicians use and spread patient-centered documentation.

CLINICALTRIAL
The role of endoscopic ultrasound in assessment of physiological cardia insufficiency during diagnosis of hiatal hernia
Authors: Shevchenko B.F. , Babii O.M. , Prolom N.V. , Titova M.V. , Tarabarov S.O. , Ushchina S.V.
Published: April 2024

Background. The aim of the study: to determine the role of endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) in assessing the failure of the physiological cardia in the diagnosis of hiatal hernias (HH). Materials and methods. At the Department of Digestive Surgery of the State Institution “Institute of Gastroenterology of the National Academy of Medical Sciences of Ukraine” in 2023, we have performed surgical treatment of 33 patients with HH: axial HH were diagnosed in 21 (63.6 %) cases (I type), paraesophageal HH — in 12 (36.4 %) patients (II type) (ICD-10 code is K44). Control group included 20 practically healthy people. Results. All patients underwent an X-ray and endoscopic examination of the esophagus, stomach, duodenum, and EUS. All 33 (100.0 %) patients underwent an X-ray to confirm the diagnosis and an endoscopic examination to detect changes in the esophageal mucosa. EUS was performed in 31 (93.9 %) patients. The thickness of the esophageal wall was assessed using EUS, which made it possible to determine the state of the structures of the phy­siological cardia in HH: the displacement of part of the stomach above the diaphragm, location of the gastroesophageal junction relative to the legs of the diaphragm and relative to each other; the distance between the legs of the diaphragm (area of the HH) and their length; the cross-sectional area of the HH (hernial sac). The data obtained during EUS influenced the choice of the method for surgical correction of the physiological cardia with HH. Conclusions. Thus, with HH, EUS makes it possible to evaluate pathological changes of the main structures in the failure of the physiological cardia, to improve diagnosis for the types of HH, the location of the gastroesophageal junction, with determination of dimensions of the esophageal hiatus, the distance between the legs of the physiological cardia, localization and cross-section of the hernial sac, which influenced the choice of the surgery for physiological cardia in HH.
MULTI-WORD EXPRESSIONS IN ANNUAL REPORTS OF AMERICAN AND BRITISH CORPORATIONS: A CORPUS-BASED DIACHRONIC STUDY
Authors: Marušić Borislav
Published: April 2024

The aim of the paper was to do diachronic linguistic research in Corporate English by doing a lexical analysis of American and British annual reports for fiscal years 2002 and 2021. Corporations, as entities of creative disruption, stay at the heart of capitalism and act as the engine of technological development in the world. However, the language of their communication with their owners (shareholders) and other stakeholders interested in their performance, such as employees, suppliers, lenders, and prospective owners, has not been empirically analysed. The article provides the results of diachronic corpus-based research of multi-word expressions (MWEs) in Corporate English. The annual reports of ten American and ten British corporations for fiscal years 2001 and 2021 were analysed separately to get information about the lexical changes that occurred in these financial documents in two variants of English over two decades. The results of the research revealed both differences and diachronic changes at the lexical level in American and British Corporate English and the same can be used in BE classes to make BE students aware of two varieties of English by presenting and practicing real empirically proved vocabulary. The results of the research can be used in BE classes in a variety of ways, bearing in mind that BE students, to communicate effectively, should be exposed to the newest vocabulary used in the business world.
ENHANCING BUSINESS STUDENTS’ EMPLOYABILITY SKILLS AWARENESS
Authors: El-Sakran Tharwat M.
Published: April 2024

Employability skills have become vital in helping recent graduates distinguish themselves in the competitive job market, transcending disciplinary boundaries. Dissatisfaction with graduates' communication abilities has been a long-standing concern in academia and the workplace. The shift from traditional lecture-based instruction to active learning has prompted changes in English for Specific Purposes (ESP) and technical communication courses globally. These changes encompass well-developed professional communication skills, collaborative work practices, effective self-management, and social responsibility. This study addresses the imperative of understanding and addressing the skill prerequisites of the corporate sphere, as employers increasingly seek competencies beyond academic qualifications. The study employs a student-centered approach, allowing students to align these skills with real-world job requirements. The Experiential Learning Theory by Kolb serves as the theoretical foundation for this approach. The results indicate that this teaching method, emphasizing learning by doing, received positive feedback from students. It not only provided insight into the skills required by the labor market but also improved students' awareness of their own strengths and weaknesses. Additionally, students found that this approach prepared them for their future careers. In conclusion, this research emphasizes the importance of equipping students with employability skills through authentic, context-based learning. The findings underscore the need for a shift from teacher-centered practices to more student-centered, collaborative learning environments that foster student autonomy and responsibility. The research closes with limitations and suggestions for further research.
Adoption of AR/VR and gamification in Future Healthcare Applications: A Mini Review
Authors: Maragatham Prof.
Published: April 2024

Abstract: In the era of rapidly evolving technology, Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) has emerged as a transformative force. Nowadays applications of AR and VR technology along with gamification techniques and incentives in the individual health is popular topic of study in academia. However, there is a need and opportunity to study the usage and challenges of AR/VR along with gamification applications in the healthcare system. To explore this, we did a survey in the software-engineer system. Based on the response, we found some of AR/VR app used in healthcare, as well as information regarding the purpose of using their applications and user experience. This survey is beneficial for both software developer as well as researchers in field of CS and medical science. It can give them information about the existing products in the market and potential problems of AR/VR and gamificationin the healthcare system.
Toxic Masculinity, Self Esteem and Mental Health among Young Adult Males
Authors: H Ms. Haritha
Published: April 2024

Abstract: This study examines the relationships between toxic masculinity, self-esteem, and mental health among adult males. Through a quantitative correlational study involving 201 participants aged 18 to 30 from India, the research investigated the impact of toxic masculinity on self-esteem and mental health using regression analysis. The findings indicate no significant relationship between toxic masculinity and self-esteem, while a strong correlation was observed between toxic masculinity and mental health. These results suggest that while toxic masculinity may not directly influence self-esteem levels, it plays a crucial role in shaping mental health outcomes among adult males.
Sentir el odio: análisis de la gravedad percibida de los discursos de odio en la población española
Authors: Brändle Gaspar , Cáceres Zapatero María Dolores , Paz Rebollo María Antonia
Published: April 2024

El objetivo de esta investigación es analizar las opiniones, actitudes y percepciones que tiene la población acerca de la gravedad los discursos de odio (DO) que se difunden en la Red. Para tal fin se ha diseñado y aplicado una encuesta de elaboración propia, a una muestra de 1022 sujetos mayores de 16 años de población general residente en España. Los resultados permiten concluir que la población encuestada percibe, de manera generalizada, la elevada gravedad que tienen los discursos de odio Asimismo, el análisis ha permitido delimitar cuatro tipos de discursos de odio: odio racista y excluyente, odio machista y de género, odio violento e irónico y odio ideológico. La edad, el género, la ideología, el nivel de estudios, la frecuencia de uso de diversas redes sociales o el compromiso que la ciudadanía asume frente a las expresiones de odio, son variables que permiten discriminar el grado de sensibilidad hacia esos tipos de discursos de odio.
Cultura de autoayuda y trabajo sobre sí mismo/a en tiempos de crisis e individualización de la vida social. Las experiencias de las personas jóvenes adultas
Authors: Turnbough Matthew L. , Santiago Jose
Published: April 2024

La impronta que en las sociedades de modernidad tardía están dejando diversos procesos de cambio social, como la desinstitucionalización, la individualización, y el capitalismo neoliberal, hace necesario que la sociología preste mayor atención al trabajo que los individuos realizan sobre sí mismos. Nuestro foco de interés son las personas jóvenes adultas que, en un contexto de crisis e incertidumbre vital, recurren a diversos recursos como guías de orientación, entre ellas las herramientas que proporciona la cultura de autoayuda. Examinamos específicamente el papel del coaching en esta dinámica de desarrollo personal y su incidencia en la subjetividad y en las relaciones sociales, atendiendo al tipo de sujeto soberano y al celebrated self que promueve, al trabajo de introspección en el que se fundamenta, así como a la gestión de las “creencias limitantes” y de las emociones. Por último, damos cuenta de algunas críticas que se le dirigen a la cultura de la autoayuda en general y al coaching de manera particular. Para nuestro análisis, utilizamos los resultados procedentes de un trabajo de campo con personas jóvenes adultas que han tenido relación con la autoayuda y específicamente con el coaching.
¿Estudias y trabajas? Perfiles del estudiantado universitario y estrategias para la compatibilización
Authors: Finkel Lucila , Parra Contreras Pilar , Carbonell Asins Juan Antonio
Published: April 2024

El artículo examina las condiciones bajo las cuales el estudiantado universitario compatibiliza estudios y trabajo, a partir de una investigación realizada con una encuesta online y una muestra de 5.341 entrevistas. A través de un análisis de correspondencias múltiples y de un análisis de clúster jerárquico, se presenta una tipología que clasifica a los estudiantes que trabajan, diferenciándolos según trabajen a tiempo completo, tiempo parcial u ocasionalmente. Esta clasificación se complementa con el análisis de las medidas de apoyo a la compatibilización que pueden llevar a cabo otros estudiantes, el profesorado o la propia institución, así como las estrategias que los propios estudiantes adoptan para estudiar y trabajar durante el curso académico. Los resultados muestran la relevancia de la tipología propuesta para analizar el incremento y la heterogeneidad del colectivo. Como conclusión, se propone incorporar el análisis de la situación laboral de los estudiantes en las políticas académicas.
Kazakhstan’s Foreign Policy: Adjusting the Priorities
Authors: Mamedov Alexey V.
Published: April 2024

Kazakhstan’s foreign policy has been characterized by continuity for a long time. The country has been balancing between Russia, the West and China. In the context of the transformation of world politics and economy, as well as aggravation of relations between the West and Russia, the adjusting foreign policy priorities and its specific content are getting especially important for Kazakhstan. The realization of a special military operation by Russia has greatly impacted Kazakhstan’s foreign policy. Kazakhstan is under strong political pressure from the West. It requires Kazakhstan to change its foreign policy course and join anti-Russian policy. The study is aimed to identify new trends in Kazakhstan’s foreign policy, both in the relations with Russia and the West as well as countries of Central Asia. For this purpose, the statements of the first persons of the state, reflecting the priorities, were analyzed. A special attention was also paid to Kazakhstan’s policy towards Russia, which remains a key partner. In the conclusion, the author identified the key priorities: an intensification of relations with the West, a search for new approaches to cooperation with Central Asian countries and preservation of balancing between Russia and the West.
Latinization of the Language Under the Leadership of Turkey as a Tool for the Formation of a New Identity for the Turkic Post-Soviet States
Authors: Pochta Yuriy M. , Guzaerov Razil I.
Published: April 2024

The study examines the issue of creating a common Turkic alphabet through the prism of Turkey’s interests in its attempts to form a new identity for the Turkic states. It is noted that the collapse of the Soviet Union and the formation of five new Turkic states were positively received in Turkey and gave impetus to the activation of pan-Turkic ideas. Thus, one of the aspects of Ankara’s humanitarian interaction with the newly formed countries was cooperation within the framework of linguistic reforms, where Turkey actively advocated for the Latinization of the alphabet of the Turkic states. The authors analyze the phenomenon of language in constructing the identity of states. Turkey, which has experience in radical linguistic reforms, recognizes the potential of such transformations in the Turkic space. Ankara seeks to lead this process in order to promote its own logics and narratives, which should ultimately lead to the adoption of the Turkish language as a single language for the Turks. It is noted that with the reformatting of the Organization of Turkic States (OTS), there has been a tendency to return to the agenda of discussions of a single alphabet for the Turkic peoples. Ankara promotes this topic at expert seminars, CTG meetings, etc. It is concluded that Turkey’s strategy is aimed at the long term and the lack of quick results in this area does not indicate its failure. Ankara systematically takes up the entire spectrum of interaction with Turkic partners, creating the foundation for future integration.
The Need to Overcome the Cultural Hegemony of the West in Political Science on The Example of the Problem of Contemporary Islamist Terrorism
Authors: Pochta Yuriy M.
Published: April 2024

Using the example of the problem of contemporary terrorism, the article raises the question of the need to overcome the dependence of Russian science on the hegemony of the West. In the world in general and in Russia in particular, the period of admiration for the Western concept of liberal democracy and the concepts of globalization, human rights, soft power, civil society, democratic transition, terrorism, hybrid wars, etc., developed by liberal thought, is coming to an end. These theories are increasingly less accepted in as normative, universal, whose implementation necessarily requires Western supervision. These theories, developed during a unique historical process in Western countries, cannot be adequately applied to determine the direction of development of non-Western countries. In this study, we consider the problem of contemporary Islamist terrorism as a concrete example of the need for a critical revision of Western ideas. To do this, we turn to the ideas of a number of Russian authors, as well as Western representatives of postmodernism, neo-Marxism and left-radical thought, who sharply criticize the basic dogmas of Western liberal political science. This allows us to conclude that Islamist terrorism is not the result of the activities of individual radicals or a manifestation of the aggressive nature of Islam, but is reproduced by the conflict system of modern international relations. Thus, Islamist terrorism as a radical form of politicization of Islam is most often a reaction of the Muslim world to Western globalism, to the crisis of a number of Muslim societies as a result of Western intervention. The system-functional approach makes it possible to understand the place and role of Islamist terrorism in contemporary hybrid wars, which the West uses to maintain its global empire. Islamist terrorism can be viewed as an element of a system of hybrid wars. In this system, along with Islamist terrorism, there is an important phenomenon of combating it - anti-terrorism, and also, along with Islamist terrorism as the activity of non-governmental armed groups, there is state terrorism, mainly carried out by Western states.
A performance management framework for self-managing schools in an emerging economy
Authors: Booyse Nicolaas Johannes , Shuttleworth Christina Cornelia , Aluko Timothy Olaniyi
Published: April 2024

The integrated quality management system (IQMS) as a performance management framework is mostly inadequate for school-based performance management. Literature branded it as a compliance system (Mamabolo et al., 2022) that does not allow school stakeholders the independence to take part in developing their own strategies. The study debates the amalgamation of the IQMS and the balanced scorecard (BSC) to develop a framework for self-managing schools in an emerging economy. Semi-structured interviews with members of schools’ management teams, were conducted and a qualitative research approach guided this study based on a design-based research (DBR) method. Our results show that a school-based performance management framework must be distinct, have a mission-focused strategy, involve all stakeholders, and be time efficient. Further, our results suggested that the performance management framework be updated on a regular basis to drive the school’s base strategy, learner academic and extracurricular achievement, and stakeholder satisfaction. While the IQMS links to managerialism (Mpungose & Ngwenya, 2017), the researchers argue that self-managing schools are linked to the participatory democracy theory (PDT) and accommodate stakeholder involvement. The framework combines the valuable criteria of the IQMS with the benefits of the BSC to contribute towards performance management in public schools.
Vortioxetine reduces pain-related behaviour in a knee osteoarthritis model in rats: involvement of nerve growth factor (NGF) downregulation
Authors: Tomić Maja , Nastić Katarina , Dinić Miroslav , Brdarić Emilija , Kotur-Stevuljević Jelena , Pecikoza Uroš , Pavićević David , Micov Ana , Jovanović Aleksandar , Stepanovic-Petrovic Radica
Published: April 2024

Background and Purpose: Treatment of osteoarthritis (OA) pain often
yields unsatisfactory results, making the search for new pain-relieving
options essential. Vortioxetine, an antidepressant with a unique
mechanism of action, has recently shown analgesic properties. We aimed
to investigate its effects in the OA model and gain insight into the
underlying molecular mechanisms. Duloxetine (a second-line drug for pain
relief in OA) was studied as a reference. Experimental Approach: In the
monoiodoacetate (MIA)-induced model of knee OA in rats of both sexes,
pain-related behaviour was assessed in weight-bearing and von Frey
tests. Antidepressants were administered orally once daily for 28 days.
Gene expression of pain-related mediators (Ngf, Il-1β, Tnf-α, Bdnf, and
Tac1 encoding substance P) and oxidative stress parameters were
determined after completion of the treatment/behavioural testing
protocol. Key results: Vortioxetine dose-dependently reduced
weight-bearing asymmetry and mechanical allodynia of the paw ipsilateral
to the MIA-injected knee. Duloxetine was also effective. Vortioxetine
reduced the increased Ngf mRNA expression in the MIA-injected knees to
the level observed in the sham-injected counterparts. It also reduced
oxidative stress parameters in the affected knees, more effectively in
females than in males. Duloxetine showed no effect on locally increased
Ngf mRNA expression and oxidative stress. Both antidepressants decreased
mRNA expression of pain-related mediators in the lumbar L3-L5
ipsilateral DRGs and spinal cords, which were upregulated in
MIA-injected rats. This effect was male-specific. Conclusion and
Implications: Vortioxetine may be effective against chronic pain in OA.
This effect appears to be mediated, at least in part, by normalization
of NGF expression in the affected joint.
Pollen interference between rare and common species
Authors: Malecore Eva , Fischer Markus
Published: April 2024

The mechanisms underlying plant species distribution and abundance have
been long studied in ecology. However, the role of heterospecific pollen
interference in shaping these patterns remains unaddressed. Species
distribution and abundance are important factors determining whether a
species is endangered or not, thus understanding the impact of
heterospecific pollen interference on rare species could help to inform
conservation strategies aimed at preserving plant communities. In this
study, we conducted a multispecies experiment using eight co-occurring
and co-flowering plant species with varying rarity levels in
Switzerland. We performed hand-pollination experiments between all
species pairs and measured seed set (whether a flower produces seed) and
seed number (number of seeds per flower) as outcomes. We looked at the
effects of species rarity status, species self-compatibility and
recipient-donor relatedness on heterospecific pollen interference.
Contrary to expectations, neither seed set nor seed number were affected
by heterospecific pollen deposition. Self-compatible species had a
higher seed set probability, but this was independent from species
rarity. Lastly, rare species showed a decrease in heterospecific pollen
interference with more distantly related pollen donors when these were
rare as well. In our study setting, heterospecific pollen interference
seems to have only minor effects on seed set and seed number, and
consequently on recruitment. Thus, heterospecific pollen interference
seems to play only a minor role in shaping plant species distribution
and abundance. Nevertheless, the higher impact of heterospecific pollen
deposition for rare and closely related species might need further
investigation for both in-sit and ex-situ conservation strategies.
Fingerprinting-based Indoor Localization in a 3x3 Meter Grid Using OFDM Signals at Sub-6 GHz
Authors: Kaur Jaspreet , Tan Kang , Z Muhammad Khan , R Olaoluwa Popoola , Imran Muhammad Ali , H.Abbasi Qammer , T.Abbas Hasan
Published: April 2024

Accurately determining the indoor location of mobile devices has
garnered great interest due to its significant challenge in locating
sources due to non-line-of-sight propagation and multipath effects. To
address this challenge, This paper proposes a new approach to indoor
positioning that utilises channel state information (CSI) and machine
learning (ML) techniques to improve Accuracy. The proposed method
extracts subcarrier amplitude and phase differences from CSI data to
create fingerprints, which are then clustered to identify the number of
groups of data and split into two sub-databases using a threshold. The
ML algorithms and network architecture are used to train both
sub-databases of fingerprints. Experiments conducted in a standard
indoor environment demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed
method.
Understanding the Impact of IoT Security Patterns on CPU Usage and Energy Consumption on IoT Devices
Authors: Jamshidi Saeid , Nikanjam Amin , Kawser Nafi , Khomh Foutse , Hamdaqa Mohammad-Adnan
Published: April 2024

The Internet of Things (IoT) has given rise to numerous security issues
that require effective solutions. IoT security patterns have been
suggested as an effective approach to address recurrent security design
issues. Although several IoT security patterns are proposed in the
literature, it remains unclear how they impact the energy consumption
and CPU usage of IoT-edge-based applications. We conducted an empirical
study using three testbed IoT applications (i.e., smart home, smart
city, and healthcare) to shed light on this issue. We evaluated the
impact of six IoT security patterns, including Personal Zone Hub,
Trusted Communication Partner, Outbound-Only Connection, Blacklist,
Whitelist, and Secure Sensor Node, both in pairs and in combination
(i.e., all patterns). Specifically, we conducted multiple penetration
tests to first assess the pattern’s effectiveness against attacks. Then,
we conducted a comprehensive analysis of the energy consumption and CPU
usage of the applications with/without the implemented security
patterns, aiming to evaluate the potential impact of these patterns on
energy efficiency and CPU usage. Our findings demonstrate a
statistically significant increase in energy consumption and CPU usage.
Based on these findings, we provide guidelines for IoT developers to
follow when implementing IoT-edge-based applications.
Mass Transfer to a Nanoelectrocatalyst
Authors: Wiesner Theodore , (Robinson Klaudia Mata , Jordan Matthew
Published: April 2024

There are few mass transfer studies to nanocatalysts (1 nm ≤
d ≤ 100 nm). We have experimentally investigated
the electrocatalytic reduction of hexacyanoferrate (III) to
hexacyanoferrate (II) on gold nanospheres. The surface flux is
insensitive to particle sizes of d≥ 30 nm. For
particle sizes of d < 30 nm, the flux
increases sharply with decreasing particle size. However, the measured
fluxes are one to three orders of magnitude smaller than predicted by a
purely diffusion-limited model. Using mathematical modeling, we
evaluated six mechanisms potentially affecting mass transfer to a
nanoparticle. Flux concentration due to the curvature effect and
electromigration become important below 30 nm. Stabilizing layers on the
particle also greatly influence the flux through electrosteric effects.
Brownian advection, enhanced surface reactivity, and particle
aggregation play negligible roles. Tuning the charge and the tortuosity
of the stabilizer layer to potentiate the flux may be useful in
nanosuspensions.
Effect of Bed Clay on Surface-Water Wave Reconstruction from Ripples
Authors: Malarkey Jonathan , Pollard Ellen , Fernández Roberto , WU Xuxu , Baas Jaco H. , Parsons Daniel R.
Published: April 2024

Wave ripples can provide valuable information on their formative
hydrodynamic conditions in past subaqueous environments by inverting
dimension predictors. However, these inversions do not usually take the
mixed non-cohesive and cohesive nature of sediment beds into account.
Recent experiments involving sand–kaolinite mixtures have demonstrated
that wave-ripple dimensions and the threshold of motion are affected by
bed clay content. Here, a clean-sand method to determine wave climate
based on orbital ripple wavelength has been adapted to include the
effect of clay and a consistent shear-stress threshold parameterisation.
Based on present-day examples with known wave conditions, the results
show that the largest clay effect occurs for coarse sand with median
grain diameters over 0.45 mm. For a 7.4% volumetric clay concentration,
the range of possible water-surface wavelengths and water depths can be
reduced significantly, by a factor of three and four, respectively,
compared to clean sand.
Synthesis and mechanical characterization of hydroxyapatite-based biomaterials reinforced with nickel-titanium-magnesium alloys for use in cortical bone implants
Authors: Refugio-García María , Miranda-Hernández José , Gallardo-Mendez Marco , Vázquez-Huerta Gerardo , Rodríguez-García José , Rocha-Rangel Enrique
Published: April 2024

In this work, biomaterials consisting of bioactive hydroxyapatite-based ceramic and nickel-titanium-magnesium alloys were made. The biomaterials were obtained through powder techniques involving mechanical milling, uniaxial pressing and pressureless sintering. The purpose of the study was to evaluate the effect of alloys on the mechanical properties of hydroxyapatite, the alloy additions were 0, 20, 30, 40, 40, 50 and 60 wt.%. The results were compared with cortical bone samples of bovine origin. From the results, it is possible to comment that, with increasing alloy contents in the hydroxyapatite, the mechanical properties increase considerably. The behavior of the composites reinforced with 50 and 60 wt.% NiTiMg alloy is similar to that of bovine cortical bone. The microstructures of the biomaterials are fine, homogeneous, and similar to those of bovine cortical bone. From the study it can be commented that given the mechanical characteristics of the biomaterials obtained, they could be used as possible bone implants.
Prevalence and identification of irregular erythrocyte antibodies in voluntary blood donors in the territory of Southeast Serbia
Authors: Randjelovic Milica , Velickovic Ana , Vojinovic Jelena , Stanojkovic Zoran
Published: April 2024

Background/Aim. The purpose of tests for transmittable diseases, as well as determining ABO group, Rh typing, and the presence of clinically significant erythrocyte anti-bodies, is to enable the appropriate selection of blood/blood components for transfusion, to prevent or minimize adverse effects of transfusion, and to identify donors whose units of blood/components are not suitable for transfusion. The aim of the study was to evaluate the presence of irregular erythrocyte antibodies as well as to determine the specificity and origin of these antibodies in voluntary donors. Methods. This prospective observational study, conducted from January until July 2023, included samples of voluntary blood donors (BDs) for anti-body screening in the population of voluntary BDs in the territory of Southeast Serbia. A total of 23,082 samples from healthy BD were examined through this period. Results. The overall prevalence of irregular anti-erythrocyte antibodies was 0.1125%, with anti-K, anti-D, and anti-E being the most frequently identified alloantibodies. Out of a total of 26 donors with positive screening results, 11 (42.32%) had alloantibodies, and 15 (57.68%) had antibodies of undetermined specificity. A positive antibody test was observed more frequently in male donors, and the age range of 51 years and above accounted for the majority of positive cases. Conclusion. Immunohematological testing, including antibody screening in voluntary BDs, is important for safe blood transfusion and is of great clinical importance. Likewise, it reduces the risk of complications due to incompatible transfusions.
Sex differences in the prognostic value of computed tomography pulmonary angiography parameters for intrahospital acute pulmonary embolism-related death
Authors: Boskovic-Sekulic Jelena , Sekulic Igor , Dzudovic Boris , Subotic Bojana , Salinger Sonja , Matijasevic Jovan , Kovacevic Tamara , Mitevska Irena , Miloradovic Vladimir , Neskovic Aleksandar , Obradovic Slobodan
Published: April 2024

Background/Aim. Multidetector computed tomography pulmonary angiography (MCTPA) has emerged as the most suitable method for diagnosing acute pulmonary embolism (APE) in hemodynamically stable patients. In addition to its diagnostic role, MCTPA facilitates the measurement and calculation of certain parameters that can be used as prognostic markers for outcomes in APE. Since the introduction of the method, there have been a lot of studies that pointed out there may be a significant difference in the prognostic value of MCTPA for APE concerning sex. Methods. The study population consisted of consecutive patients with a diagnosis of APE confirmed by MCTPA. Positive MCTPA findings and a diagnosis of APE were established if the patient had at least one segmental artery thrombus. APE severity was estimated using the simplified Pulmonary Embolism Severity Index (sPESI). All-cause and APE-related intrahospital deaths were the coprimary outcomes of this study. Results. In total, 1,612 patients were enrolled in the study (750 men and 862 women). Women with a centrally positioned pulmonary thrombus detected on MCTPA were more likely to die from PE-related death than those without one (10.4% vs. 4.2%, respectively; p = 0.016). Women with a right ventricle (RV) and left ventricle (LV) diameter ratio (RV/LV) > 1 died almost twice as often as those with a ratio ? 1 (15.5% vs. 8.6%, respectively; p = 0.017). Women with an RV/LV > 1 detected with MCTPA were significantly more likely to die from PE than those with a ratio ? 1 (11% vs. 5.2%, respectively; p = 0.017). Women who died from PE-related causes had a significantly higher value of the embolic burden score system (EBSS) than did the surviving women (18.00 vs. 11.00, respectively; p = 0.025). Independently of age, sPESI, and renal function, the presence of a central thrombus [odds ratio (OR) 2.278, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.050?4.944, p = 0.037] and the RV/LV ratio > 1 (OR 2.015, 95% CI: 1.042?3.893, p = 0.037) were associated with intrahospital PE-related death in women. Conclusion. In women, MCTPA parameters, a centrally placed thrombus, the RV/LV ratio, and the EBSS had prognostic significance for PE-related mortality. The RV/LV ratio had prognostic significance for all-cause intrahospital mortality. In men, the MCTPA parameters had no prognostic significance for both overall and PE-related mortality.
MENKES DISEASE: A LITERATURE REVIEW AND CLINICAL CASE
Authors: Tokarchuk N. , Chekotun T. , Starynets L. , Antonets V. , Stanislavchuk L.
Published: April 2024

Menkes Kinky Hair Disease (MKHD) is characterized by an abnormality in copper metabolism caused by a mutation in the ATP7A gene, which is located on Xq13.3 and has 23 exons. In addition, this gene encodes 1500 amino acids and is expressed in large quantities in various organs. It’s worth mentioning that about 357 diff erent mutations have been identifi ed in the ATP7A gene. It is a relatively rare disease with an incidence of 1 case per 100,000 to 250,000 live births. MKHD is an X-linked recessive trait that almost exclusively aff ects boys.The diagnosis of this rare disease is based on the genetic- molecular study of a metabolic disease panel, including the ATP7A gene and the biochemical phenotype (a decrease in serum copper and ceruloplasmin levels).In developing therapeutic strategies for individuals with Menkes disease, three fundamental problems are being addressed: 1) unlocking the absorption of copper in the intestine; 2) making copper available to enzymes in cells that require it as a cofactor; and 3) identifying infants with Menkes disease and initiating treatment at a very early stage of life, before irreversible neurodegeneration occurs. This article presents a clinical case of Menkes disease in a 7-month-old boy. The diagnosis was confi rmed by molecular genetic testing (NGS) of the Neurometabolic Disorders Panel, which included the ATP7A gene and biochemical phenotype.  The described case illustrates the complexity of diagnosing Menkes disease in the neonatal period due to the non-specifi city of disease symptoms (lethargy, weak sucking, weight loss, etc.) and the importance of biochemical and molecular genetic methods of fetal investigation in subsequent pregnancies or in a newborn sibling for early diagnosis and treatment. This case will be published with the consent of the mother in accordance with bioethical principles.
THE REALIZATIONS OF TEACHING PROFESSION: FOUR INDONESIAN NOVICE ENGLISH TEACHERS' NARRATIVES DURING THE PANDEMIC
Authors: Weni Tabita Melania Mustaka , Yumarnamto Mateus
Published: April 2024

This study explores teacher professional identity (TPI) of novice English teachers in Indonesia by looking at their narratives related to their experiences before and after they entered the profession. The central question leading this inquiry is “What realizations about the profession shape the participants’ TPI?” The data were collected from four participants through emails and follow-up interviews by phone. The data, then, were co-constructed to create coherent narratives of the four novice teachers. Further analysis was conducted by identifying their new realizations and awareness of being English teachers. These realizations about teaching and the profession were discussed in terms of the TPI elements. The findings indicate that realizations about various aspects of TPI of the novice teachers could lead to a better understanding of their professional identity formation before entering the profession, after entering the profession, and at the time of COVID-19 pandemic (2020-2021). The TPI claims in the three stages indicate the complex process of TPI formation and the implications of the process can be the foundation of English teacher education and professional development reform.
A POLYGLOT’S STRATEGIES IN LEARNING FOREIGN LANGUAGES: A CASE STUDY
Authors: Martiningsih Widiana , Mukarto Fransiscus Xaverius
Published: April 2024

Polyglots typically have specific learning strategies to learn new languages. This study aims to tap into the learning strategies employed by a female Indonesian who speaks six languages, namely Javanese, Minang, Malay, Indonesian, English, and Russian, and is currently learning three additional languages, namely French, Spanish, and Arabic. This case study used an interview to gain a deeper understanding of the learning strategies. The interview revealed that the participant used direct and indirect strategies in a balanced proportion. Further discussion also revealed that she used cognitive strategy and social strategy most frequently, i.e. in the form of practice and social interaction, respectively. The case study is expected to serve as a reference for language learners seeking to learn new languages.
PATTERNS OF UTILIZING AI–ASSISTED TOOLS AMONG EFL STUDENTS: NEED SURVEYS FOR ASSESSMENT MODEL DEVELOPMENT
Authors: Wulyani Anik Nunuk , Widiati Utami , Muniroh Siti , Rachmadhany Clarita Dianmonica , Nurlaila Nurlaila , Hanifiyah Lina , Sharif Tengku Intan Suzila Tengku
Published: April 2024

This study explores patterns of AI-tool utilization among Indonesian EFL students, as preliminary data for assessment-model development. Using a convenience sampling technique, this study involved 208 university students of various year levels. A questionnaire was developed based on technology acceptance model (TAM) frameworks to collect data through Google Form, covering aspects of knowledge and use of AI tools in completing tasks, frequency of AI use and friendliness levels, reasons for using AI tools, ease of using AI tools, and desire to use AI tools. The results reveal that the participants had basic knowledge of AI but a significant number of participants admitted not knowing AI tools, suggesting the need for more education and awareness about AI. Grammarly and Google Translate were the most familiar and frequently used applications. Our findings also reveal strong relationships between perceived ease of use (PEoU) and perceived usefulness (PU) and between PU and technology acceptance (TA), implying how TAM frameworks may predict willingness to use technology-assisted or AI applications and the actual utilization. As most research participants were teacher candidates, it becomes clear that integrating AI-assisted learning content and activities appears essential as their experiences in their teacher education may influence the way they teach in the future.
DIGITAL REFLECTIVE JOURNAL IN THE TRANSLATION CLASSROOM: DOES THE FORMAT CHANGE THE GAME?
Authors: Korol Tetiana Hryhorivna
Published: April 2024

Reflection is considered an integral part of modern translation classrooms, particularly within the framework of the social constructivist paradigm. To enhance its effectiveness, students' reflective activities should be supported with appropriate tools. This paper aims to compare the effectiveness of two formats of digital reflective journals. A mixed-methods research was conducted involving 34 third-year undergraduate translation students, who were divided into two sample groups (SG). They were instructed to accompany their translation submissions with reflective journal entries, either in a MS Word document (SG1) or in a digital reflective journal application (SG2). The research results indicated a statistically significant difference in the translation proficiency levels of students in the two SGs. Reflective journaling using a specific application resulted in better translation performance and higher quality journal entries over the term. This study highlights alternative approaches to reflective journal writing in translation classrooms. Future research could explore the evaluation of journal entries using digital tools.