bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Gamification, collaborative learning and transversal competences: analysis of academic performance and students’ perceptions
Authors: Latorre-Cosculluela Cecilia , Sierra-Sánchez Verónica , Vázquez-Toledo Sandra 
Published: January 2025

AbstractThe importance and benefits of teamwork in the university context have been widely recognized in recent decades. However, there is little evidence that analyzes the effects of the combination of collaborative learning strategies and gamification methodologies for the improvement of transversal skills and academic performance. In this sense, in this study an intervention program was carried out in the university classroom that alternated the use of technology, gamification (through the use of the ClassDojo platform) and collaborative learning to improve the development of transversal skills. More specifically, the objective was to analyze the academic performance and qualitative perceptions of university students after the application of a gamified educational approach. A mixed research methodology was used with quantitative and qualitative techniques combining descriptive, correlational and linear regression analysis and an interview was administered to the 117 students involved in the experience. The results obtained indicated that the application of the program produced improvements on the development of transversal competences and on the academic performance of university students. In addition, the qualitative analysis of the perceptions allowed us to conclude that this program that combines gamification with collaborative learning received a positive evaluation by the students regarding different variables such as the applicability of gamification for the improvement of softskills, the benefits on the teaching–learning process and other factors that influence motivation before the use of gamification techniques in learning.
A comparison of two systems for group housing of gestating sows - effects on productivity, removal, and treatments
Authors: Sylvén Kaisa Ryytty , Wallgren Torun , Almerheim Pontus , Selling Lena Eliasson , Jacobson Magdalena , Wallgren Per 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Background
Group housing of sows has been extensively studied since the EU banned gestation crating. Well-managed group-housing promotes sow welfare, but the impact varies based on factors such as feeding, group characteristics, and environmental features. Adequate floor space, particularly directly post-mixing, is crucial for social interactions, natural behaviours, and to reduce injuries caused by aggression. The aim of this study was to compare two group-housing systems for gestating sows with respect to productivity, treatment frequency, and removal of sows. Both systems were static but differed in space allowance, quantity of enrichment material and feeding management. System I comprised of large sized pens with deep litter straw bedding, housing in total 40 sows, and System II of smaller sized pens with permanent access to straw, housing 8 to 10 sows.

Results
The mean parity number was 3.1 ± 1.3 in both groups. Sows housed in System I with large groups (n = 40) in large pens with deep litter straw gave birth to 16.8 ± 0.33 (Least Squares Means, LSM) piglets, compared to 15.4 ± 0.31 (LSM) for sows in System II kept in smaller groups (n = 8–10) in smaller pens (p = 0.0005). Medical treatments of sows were more frequent (p < 0.001) in System II. The incidence of replacement of sows was comparable in both systems, and there was a high occurrence of sows becoming pregnant during the subsequent insemination in both groups.

Conclusions
This study indicated that sows kept in larger groups provided with a larger floor space (a total area of 156 m2, corresponding to 3.9 m2 per sow) and housed on deep straw had a higher number of liveborn and weaned piglets and lower incidence of antibiotic treatments than sows with less floor space (a total area of 24.5 m2, corresponding to 2.5–3.1 m2 per sow) and less bedding/manipulable material.
Incorporating causal notions to forecasting time series: a case study
Authors: Kristjanpoller Werner , Michell Kevin , Llanos Cristian , Minutolo Marcel C. 
Published: January 2025

AbstractFinancial time series have been analyzed with a wide variety of models and approaches, some of which can forecast with great accuracy. However, most of these models, especially the machine learning ones, cannot show additional information for the decision maker or the financial analyst. The notion of causality is a concept that provides a more complete understanding of a problem beyond improved forecasts. In this study, we propose integrating the treatment/control concept of causality into a forecasting framework to better predict financial time series. Our results show that the proposed methodology outperforms classic econometric approaches such as ARIMA and Random Walk, as well as machine learning approaches without the proposed methodology. This improvement is statistically significant, as indicated by the Model Confidence Set test in the complete test set and quarterly analysis.
Dynamics of the relationship between stock markets and exchange rates during quantitative easing and tightening
Authors: Ahmadian-Yazdi Farzaneh , Sokhanvar Amin , Roudari Soheil , Tiwari Aviral Kumar 
Published: January 2025

AbstractThis study utilizes two complementary models, the Time-Varying Parameter Vector Autoregressive Diebold–Yilmaz (TVP-VAR-DY) and the Time-Varying Parameter Vector Autoregressive Baruník–Křehlík (TVP-VAR-BK), to investigate the dynamic volatility transmission between exchange rates and stock returns in major commodity-exporting and -importing countries. The analysis focuses on periods of quantitative easing (QE) and quantitative tightening (QT) from March 15, 2020 to December 30, 2022. The countries examined are Canada and Australia (major commodity exporters) and the UK and Germany (major commodity importers). An essential contribution of this paper is new empirical insights into the dynamics of stock market returns and the transmission of volatility between these markets and exchange rates during the QE and QT periods. The results reveal that causality primarily flows from stock markets to exchange rates, especially during the QT period across all investment horizons. The Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX) emerges as the principal net driver among the markets under study. Furthermore, the Canadian exchange rate (USDCAD) and the Australian Stock Exchange (ASX) are the most significantly affected indices within the network across various investment horizons (excluding the long-term). These findings underscore the importance for investors and policymakers to consider the interplay between exchange rates and stock market returns, particularly in the context of the QE and QT periods, as well as other economic, political, and health-related events. Our findings are relevant to various stakeholders, including governments, traders, portfolio managers, and multinationals.
The present status of dialysis patients in Asian countries as of 2022 from a medical economic point of view
Authors: Hyodo Toru , Hirawa Nobuhito , Kuragano Takahiro , Takemoto Yoshiaki , Urabe Shunichiro , Adiya Saruultuvshin , Damdinsuren Khurtsbayar , Munaa Bukhchuluu , Yondontsamts Alimaa , Jamba Ariunbold , Dolgorsuren Munkhzul , Maamkhuu Oyunchimeg , Dorj Chuluuntsetseg , Widiana I. Gde Raka 
Published: January 2025

AbstractIn Japan, Mongolia, and Indonesia, dialysis care has been covered by national health insurance and social welfare programs as of 2022, which covers much of the cost burden. However, the proportion of this burden varies by country and Japan is the only one of these countries in which medical fees are fully covered for all dialysis patients. As systems for dialysis medical care coverage have been established, the number of dialysis patients has increased dramatically in each country. However, the cost of dialysis treatment itself is very high relative to personal income in all countries. This puts pressure on national healthcare budgets and gives rise to concerns about the sustainability of dialysis care in the future. Peritoneal dialysis (PD) is less expensive than hemodialysis (HD) in Mongolia and Indonesia, and a PD-first policy is considered effective in reducing costs. Nevertheless, an overwhelming number of patients still undergo HD. Despite the difficulties faced by these three countries in obtaining funds for dialysis treatment, among Asian countries, Mongolia and Indonesia are considered to have relatively advanced healthcare systems. It is considered that there has been progress in the provision of dialysis treatment subsidies to the citizens of these countries.
Oral delivery of the non-β-blocking R-carvedilol enantiomer for skin cancer chemoprevention in SKH-1 mice
Authors: Sardar Pabitra K. , Yeung Steven , Tow Ruby , Luga Jacqueline , Huang Matthew , Shahid Ayaz , Andresen Bradley T. , Huang Ying 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Purpose
Skin cancer remains the most prevalent cancer worldwide with its incidence continuously rising. Previous studies have demonstrated the efficacy of the β-blocker carvedilol and its non-β-blocking enantiomer R-carvedilol in mitigating UV-induced skin carcinogenesis through topical application. The current study investigated whether orally administered R-carvedilol could prevent the development of skin cancer in SKH-1 mice.

Methods
Efficacy of orally delivered R-carvedilol was examined in SKH-1 mice exposed to repeated UV radiations for 25 weeks. Pharmacokinetic studies were conduced in mice to evaluate the drug levels in plasma and skin tissues. Pharmacodynamic studies were used to evaluate the effects of oral R-carvedilol and racemic carvedilol on mouse blood pressure.

Results
The findings revealed a statistical difference in tumor incidence between the group receiving R-carvedilol (20 mg/kg) and the UV-only control group (p = 0.00860), while lower doses of R-carvedilol (1.5 mg/kg and 5 mg/kg) did not exhibit a significant impact on tumor incidence. While tumor multiplicity varied significantly between groups (p = 0.005325), tumor volume analysis showed no statistical difference. Pharmacokinetic studies indicated that R-carvedilol accumulated in a dose-dependent manner within plasma and skin tissues. Notably, at a dosage of 32 mg/kg, oral R-carvedilol did not influence blood pressure, in contrast to carvedilol, highlighting its potential for chemoprevention with minimal cardiovascular side effects.

Conclusions
These data support oral administration of R-carvedilol as a viable strategy for the chemoprevention of skin cancer, given its efficacy and minimal impact on the cardiovascular system. Further studies determining the optimal doses and timing of drug treatment are warranted.
Predictors of clinical outcome in post-thrombolysis among sample of Egyptian patients with acute ischemic stroke
Authors: Hussein AbdelRahman Mohamed , Bayoumy Iman Mohamed , Abdulghani Khaled Ossama , Eissa Mona Ali , Ahmed Ehab Mostafa , Abou Elmaaty Ali Ahmed 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Background
Stroke stands as a major cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. The recommended treatment for eligible patients within the initial 4.5-h window is intravenous recombinant tissue plasminogen activator (IV rt-PA). This study explored the factors influencing functional outcome following IV rt-PA treatment in a group of Egyptian patients with acute ischemic stroke (AIS). We included sixty patients diagnosed with AIS who met the criteria for IV rt-PA therapy. Data were collected and statistically analyzed, we established correlations with functional outcomes as measured by the modified Rankin Scale (mRS) and National Institute of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) 3-month post-treatment.

Results
Of the 60 patients, 40 (66.67%) exhibited a favorable functional outcome, while 20 (33.33%) experienced a less favorable outcome. Poor functional outcome was associated with atrial fibrillation [p value < 0.001, odds ratio (OR) 6.28], hypertension (p value = 0.001, OR 3.65), diabetes mellitus (p value 0.009, OR 2.805), and a higher NIHSS at admission (p value = 0.003, OR 8.03).

Conclusions
Certain factors may affect functional outcome in stroke patients treated with rt-PA therapy. There are strong associations between hypertension, diabetes, atrial fibrillation, post-rt-PA intracerebral hemorrhage (both asymptomatic and symptomatic), specific stroke subtypes, and less favorable functional outcome 3 months after rt-PA administration, as measured by the mRS.
A machine learning approach for wind turbine power forecasting for maintenance planning
Authors: Dhungana Hariom 
Published: January 2025

AbstractIntegrating power forecasting with wind turbine maintenance planning enables an innovative, data-driven approach that maximizes energy output by predicting periods low wind production and aligning them with maintenance schedules, improving operational efficiency. Recently, many countries have met renewable energy targets, primarily using wind and solar, to promote sustainable growth and reduce emissions. Forecasting wind turbine power production is crucial for maintaining a stable and reliable power grid. As renewable energy integration increases, precise electricity demand forecasting becomes essential at every power system level. This study presents and compares nine machine learning (ML) methods for forecasting, Interpretable ML, Explainable ML, and Blackbox model. The interpretable ML includes Linear Regression (LR), K-Nearest Neighbors (KNN), eXtreme Gradient Boosting (XGBoost), Random Forest (RF); the explainable ML consists of graphical Neural network (GNN); and the blackbox model includes Multi-layer Perceptron (MLP), Recurrent Neural Network (RNN), Gated Recurrent Unit (GRU), and Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM). These methods are applied to the EDP datasets using three causal variable types: including temporal information, metrological information, and power curtailment information. Computational results show that the GNN-based forecasting model outperforms other benchmark methods regarding power forecasting accuracy. However, when considering computational resources such as memory and processing time, the XGBoost model provides optimal results, offering faster processing and reduced memory usage. Furthermore, we present forecasting results for various time windows and horizons, ranging from 10 minutes to a day.
Comparison of mucosal microbiota populations across the gastrointestinal tract of healthy dogs
Authors: Lin Ching-Yen , Cross Tzu-Wen L. , Swanson Kelly S. 
Published: January 2025

AbstractThe gastrointestinal (GI) microbiota plays a crucial role in host health and disease in dogs, but the knowledge regarding the mucosal associated microbiota along the GI tract is limited in dogs. Therefore, the objective of this study was to characterize the phylogeny and predicted functional capacity of microbiota residing on the gut mucosa across five GI regions of healthy young adult and geriatric dogs fed different diets. Twelve weanling (8 weeks old) and 12 senior (11.1 years old) beagles were randomly assigned to be fed an animal product-based diet or plant product-based diet for 12 months. At that time, mucosal samples from the stomach, duodenum, jejunum, ileum, and mid-colon were collected. DNA was extracted and the hypervariable region 4 (V4) of the 16S rRNA gene was amplified to assess microbiota using Illumina MiSeq sequencing. Data were analyzed using QIIME 1.9.1. and Statistical Analyses of Metagenomic Profiles software 2.1.3. Gene predictions were made using Phylogenetic Investigation of Communities by Reconstruction of Unobserved States. Taxonomic assessment revealed a greater (p < 0.05) species richness in the mid-colon compared with other segments. Principal coordinates analysis of weighted UniFrac distances demonstrated distinct clusters of stomach, ileum, and mid-colon samples, indicating the presence of unique microbial communities in these regions. The predominant phyla in all five segments were Proteobacteria, Firmicutes, Bacteroidetes, Actinobacteria and Fusobacteria, but their relative abundances varied between segments. Proteobacteria had a decreasing relative abundance from the stomach to mid-colon (q < 0.05). The ileum had the highest while the stomach had the lowest relative abundance of Firmicutes (q < 0.05). The duodenum had a higher abundance of Bacteroidetes than the stomach and ileum (q < 0.05). The mid-colon had a higher Fusobacteria relative abundance than other regions (q < 0.05). The predicted functional capacities of the microbiota in the stomach differed from those in the other segments. Age and diet of dog did not significantly impact the taxonomy or predicted functional capacities of the mucosal microbiota. In conclusion, our findings demonstrate distinct characteristics of the mucosal microbiota across various segments of canine GI tract.
Impact of ultrasound-guided percutaneous flexor retinaculum fenestration on outcome of hydrostatic dissection of median nerve in patient with carpal tunnel syndrome
Authors: Zidan Ahmed M. , Nafady Hytham Mohamed , Alkenawy Mohamed Abdelrahman , Ahmad Mohammad Abol Wafa , Eldeeb Ahmed Mohamed , Mohamed Mohamed Talaat , Fouda Mahmoud Mohamed Aboumandour , Soltan Hasan A. , Shabaan Nehal Elsayed , Mehany Ahmed B. M. , Ghoraba Yasser Fouad 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Background
Most cases of entrapment neuropathy are due to median nerve compression, which manifests most commonly as carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS). There are several nonsurgical treatment options available for mild-to-moderate circumstances.

Aim
To assess the effect of ultrasound-guided percutaneous flexor retinaculum fenestration on the outcome of hydrostatic dissection of the median nerve in cases with CTS.

Methods
This randomized clinical research included a total of 54 individuals with CTS separated into two groups; group (A) included patients with hydrostatic dissection with adjuvant fenestration of transverse carpal ligament (n = 27), while group (B) involved patients with hydrostatic dissection alone (n = 27). Pain and disability through the visual analog scale (VAS), symptom severity (SS) score, modified Boston Carpal Tunnel Questionnaire (BCTQ), and functional disability (FD) score before injection and 3 months post-injection were assessed. Distal motor latency (DML) and sensory conduction velocity (SCV) were measured at baseline and 3 months after the procedure.

Results
SS and FD scores, were comparable in both groups before the procedure, while after three months of the procedure, the mean of SS and FD scores was significantly higher in group A (24.18 ± 3.62 and 17.52 ± 2.15, respectively) than in group B (16.55 ± 3.17and 11.39 ± 1.81, respectively) (p < 0.001). Also, there was a significant distinction between before and after the procedure in both groups (p < 0.001). Regarding electro physiologic outcomes, DML and SCV were comparable in both groups before the procedure, while after three months of the procedure, the mean of DML and SCV scores was significantly higher in group A (4.41 ± 0.41 and 39.27 ± 2.35, correspondingly) than group B (4.23 ± 0.37and 42.55 ± 2.75, respectively) (p = 0.011 and < 0.001, correspondingly). Also, there was significant variance between before & after the procedure in both groups (p = 0.010 and < 0.001, correspondingly).

Conclusion
Ultrasound-guided hydro-dissection and fenestration of the transvers carpal ligament is a simple, non-invasive treatment for CTS that has the potential to reduce symptoms for a long time and delay or perhaps prevent the need for open release.
Leveraging computational approaches in identifying novel HER-2 + breast cancer potential therapeutics: integrating virtual screening and molecular dynamics simulation
Authors: Bolaji Olawale Quadri , Adelusi Temitope Isaac , Ojo Taiwo Ooreoluwa , Boyenle Ibrahim Damilare , Oyedele Abdul-Quddus Kehinde , Ogunjobi Taiwo Temitope , Oyaronbi Adegboye Oyewole , Ayoola Sukurat Oluwatoyin , Ogunlana Abdeen Tunde 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Background
Breast cancer, particularly the human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 positive subtype, presents a significant global health challenge due to its high prevalence and mortality rates. This study delves into the molecular intricacies of HER-2 positive breast cancer, with an emphasis on the role of the HER-2 oncoprotein and its associated signaling pathways in cell growth, differentiation, and survival. In our pursuit of overcoming the limitations of one of the leading therapeutic options, Lapatinib, such as its inhibition of hERG, we embarked on a comprehensive research journey.

Result
This study involved dual-stage molecular docking, initially with a library of PubChem-curated compounds, revealing Compound 90196902 as the best of the set. This was followed by the docking of DataWarrior-generated structural analogs of Compound 90196902, using various docking protocols such as standard precision, extra precision, and induced fit docking. Through this rigorous screening protocol, three promising drug candidates (Compound_56, Compound_81, and Compound_339) were identified, showing excellent interaction with the target. Additionally, binding free energy calculations, ADME and toxicity profiling, and molecular dynamics simulations presented these compounds as lead-like.

Conclusion
Compound_56 showed the most promising pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic properties, coupled with substantial structural stability. While immensely promising, further optimization and pre-clinical investigation are imperative to validate this compound as a viable alternative to existing therapies for HER-2 positive breast cancer.

Graphical abstract
Antibacterial efficacy and antibiotic sensitivity augmentation potential of selected traditional medicinal plant extracts against Vibrio cholerae O1 E1 Tor Ogawa
Authors: Chavan Pruthviraj , Naik Kamakshi , Ghosal Soumika , Charla Rajitha , Patil Rajalakshmi , Guruputranavar Jyoti N. , Patil Vishal S. , Harish Darasaguppe R. , Roy Subarna 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Background
The leaves of Psidium guajava (PGAE), fruit peel of Punica granatum (PGRPE), and the bark of Careya arborea (CAE) are widely used traditional medicinal plants for treating diarrheal diseases across India. Our previous studies showed that the hydroalcoholic extracts of these plant parts inhibit the cholera toxin activity. Hence, this study is framed to investigate these extracts for anti-Vibrio cholerae activity and their ability to augment antibiotic sensitivity through a combination of in vitro and computational methods. The hydroalcoholic extracts of PGAE, PGRPE, and CAE were tested for antibacterial activity against Vibrio cholerae by minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC), minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC), and virulence gene expression studies by reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). Further, antibacterial activity in combination with selected antibiotics was performed by disk diffusion method. The possible mode of action of these extracts was predicted using docking and molecular dynamics studies on selected virulence factors of Vibrio cholerae.

Results
All three plant extracts depicted antibacterial activity at different degrees. CAE showed MIC and MBC at 1.25 mg/mL and 10 mg/mL, PGAE at 1.25 mg/mL and 5 mg/mL; and PGRPE at 2.5 mg/mL and 10 mg/mL, respectively. RT-PCR confirmed these extracts significantly inhibited the expression of virulence genes like Flagellin A (FlaA), Vibrio polysaccharide synthesis transcription regulator (VpsT), and Lux Operon (LuxO). Further, the computational studies predicted that phytocompounds of these plants pose stable interaction with AphA, AphB, and ToxT playing the key role in inhibiting the expression of virulence factors.

Conclusion
The results emphasize that these plant extracts potentially inhibit the growth of Vibrio cholerae, decrease the expression of virulence gene, and enhance the sensitivity of certain conventional antibiotics.