Search Results (825)

The implementation of Digital Twins (DTs) in hospitality facilities represents a significant opportunity to optimize front-end services, enhancing guest experience and operational efficiency. This paper proposes an ontology-driven approach for DTs in hotel reception areas, focusing on integrating IoT devices, real-time data processing, and service optimization. By modeling interactions between guests, receptionists, and hotel management systems, DTs enhance resource allocation, predictive maintenance, and customer satisfaction. Simulations and historical data analysis enable forecasting demand fluctuations and optimizing check-in/check-out processes. This research provides a structured framework for DT applications in hospitality, validated through scenario-based simulations, showing significant improvements in check-in time and guest satisfaction. Validation was conducted through scenario-based simulations reflecting real-world operational challenges, such as guest surges, room assignment, and staff workload balancing. Metrics including check-in time, guest satisfaction index, task completion rates, and prediction accuracy were used to evaluate performance. Simulations were grounded in historical hotel data and modeled typical peak-period dynamics to ensure realism. Results demonstrated a 25–35% reduction in check-in time, a 20% improvement in staff efficiency, and significant enhancements in guest satisfaction, underscoring the practical value of the proposed framework in real hospitality settings. Full article

Objectives: Scarce data are available regarding preventive medicine in forcibly displaced populations especially regarding non-communicable diseases like neoplasia, while even more limited data are available on Ukrainian refugees in Romania. To address this research gap, the present analysis was performed to investigate Ukrainian refugee women’s beliefs, attitudes, and opinions towards the Romanian and Ukrainian healthcare system in a comparison model while focusing on the HPV immunization rates and factors influencing the uptake for themselves and their children. Methods: Participants were recruited using the snowball sampling method through their General Practitioner (GP) and a health mediator. Results: In total, 105 women completed the online or physical survey. The mean age was 50 years. In total, 40% of women had not been to a gynecological check-up in 3 or more years, and more than 56% had never been screened. Only four were vaccinated against HPV, and none remembered which type of vaccine was dispensed or how many doses were utilized. The primary hindrances to accessing health services or immunization programs were language barriers, financial burdens, and a lack of information. Respondents’ general distrust of health systems and healthcare workforces were recurrent themes. Relationship status, living arrangements, and previous engagement in screening practices influenced immunization rates. Perceiving the healthcare officials as proactive concerning optional vaccination programs such as HPV immunization and actively receiving recommendations drove respondents to pursue vaccination. Conclusions: This analysis offers a foundational insight into the specific needs of refugee women. It can guide the development of effective public health interventions to improve health outcomes and vaccination rates among Ukrainian refugees in Romania. Tailored preventive campaigns with adequate native language information and prompts from medical experts in designated centers should be deployed to ensure inclusive tactics for vulnerable populations. Full article

To address the obstacle-avoidance path-planning requirements of dual-arm robots operating in complex environments, such as chemical laboratories and biomedical workstations, this paper proposes ODSN-RRT (optimization-direction-step-node RRT), an efficient planner based on rapidly-exploring random trees (RRT). ODSN-RRT integrates three key optimization strategies. First, a two-stage sampling-direction strategy employs goal-directed growth until collision, followed by hybrid random-goal expansion. Second, a dynamic safety step-size strategy adapts each extension based on obstacle size and approach angle, enhancing collision detection reliability and search efficiency. Third, an expansion-node optimization strategy generates multiple candidates, selects the best by Euclidean distance to the goal, and employs backtracking to escape local minima, improving path quality while retaining probabilistic completeness. For collision checking in the dual-arm workspace (self and environment), a cylindrical-spherical bounding-volume model simplifies queries to line-line and line-sphere distance calculations, significantly lowering computational overhead. Redundant waypoints are pruned using adaptive segmental interpolation for smoother trajectories. Finally, a master-slave planning scheme decomposes the 14-DOF problem into two 7-DOF sub-problems. Simulations and experiments demonstrate that ODSN-RRT rapidly generates collision-free, high-quality trajectories, confirming its effectiveness and practical applicability. Full article

Background: Distalization is a fundamental orthodontic strategy for correcting Class II and Class III malocclusions, particularly in cases where specific dental or skeletal conditions favor its application. Recent technological advances have enabled complex dental movements to be performed using clear aligners, aided by digital planning platforms such as ClinCheck^®. Methods: This retrospective study aimed to evaluate the accuracy of ClinCheck^® in predicting molar and canine distalization outcomes with the Invisalign^® system and to identify clinical factors influencing treatment predictability. Thirty patients with complete permanent dentition and at least 2 mm of programmed distalization were selected. Planned movements were extracted from the Invisalign^® Doctor Site and compared to achieved outcomes using Geomagic^® Control X™ software. Occlusal improvements were assessed using the Peer Assessment Rating (PAR) index. Results: The results revealed significant discrepancies between the programmed and achieved distalization, with mean deviations greater than 1 mm in both arches. Skeletal anchorage with mini-screws significantly improved distalization outcomes in the maxillary arch; however, no significant effect was observed in the mandibular arch. Additionally, no significant associations were found between distalization outcomes and skeletal pattern (ANB angle) or facial biotype. Conclusions: Clear aligners are effective in achieving substantial occlusal improvements, particularly when combined with personalized digital planning and supplementary strategies such as skeletal anchorage. Mandibular cases demonstrated greater reductions in PAR scores, emphasizing the potential of aligners in complex distalization treatments. Full article

Gratitude journaling is a simple and effective way to improve emotional well-being. However, its impact on people with breast cancer in South Korea has not been clearly understood. This study explored how writing a gratitude journal can help patients with breast cancer feel more grateful, resilient, and satisfied with life. Sixty patients from a university hospital in Jeollanam-do were randomly assigned to either a gratitude journaling group or a control group. The journaling group received guidance and wrote at least ten journal entries over three weeks, with weekly phone check-ins. The control group received no intervention. Before and after the program, the participants completed surveys. The results showed that those who kept gratitude journals had higher levels of gratitude, resilience, and quality of life than those who did not. These findings suggest that gratitude journaling can be a valuable and easy-to-use nursing strategy to support the emotional health of breast cancer patients. Full article

Background: The aim of this study was to assess the experiences and attitudes of dentists toward treating patients with mental disorders and to investigate how these attitudes correlate with factors such as sex, age, and years of clinical experience. Methods: A cross-sectional pilot study was conducted from March to July 2021 via an online questionnaire. The questionnaire consisted of four sections: demographic information, self-assessment of experiences and attitudes toward treating patients with mental disorders, knowledge of psychotropic drugs and their interactions, and personal experiences with patient care. Results: Overall, 101 dentists, mostly females (78.22%), completed the questionnaire, of which 65.35% consistently checked whether their patients were taking psychotropic drugs and 48.51% inquired about mental disorders when taking medical history. Still, 39.60% reported unpleasant experiences when treating such patients—mostly female dentists—and as many as 14.85% of all dentists refused to treat them. More than 94% of dentists recognized that patients with mental disorders are at greater risk for poor oral health and in need of early referral and professional support. Older dentists demonstrated better knowledge of oral manifestations and drug interactions relevant to dental treatment. Conclusions: Our findings highlight the need for improved training, an interdisciplinary approach, and greater dissemination of new scientific evidence for managing patients with mental disorders in dental practice. Considering that this is a pilot study using a combination of non-probabilistic convenience and snowball sampling method, the findings should be considered preliminary and interpreted with caution, as the sampling method limits the ability to make statistical inferences. Full article

Background and Objectives: Physical activity represents a cornerstone in the management of diabetes mellitus; however, the majority of persons with diabetes remain insufficiently active. Current guidelines emphasise the need to educate individuals with diabetes on physical activity at each clinical visit. The aim of the study was to develop an adequate instrument and test diabetologists’ knowledge on physical activity and related guidelines in diabetes, as well as investigate their prescribing habits. Materials and Methods: The instrument was developed with four diabetologists using Delphi and RAND appropriateness methods, then distributed to diabetologist societies in 12 Southeast European countries for anonymous completion by their members. Data were analysed using Mann–Whitney U test and Pearson ${ x}^2$ test. Results: Out of 302 analysed respondents, 123 (41%) worked at university hospitals, at average four days a week in outpatient departments, mean number of patients was 16 a day; 95 (32%) had a PhD, and 105 (35%) university teaching positions. Median overall knowledge was 15 (Q1–Q3, 13–17) out of 22 maximum points. 26% diabetologists knew recommended level of physical activity for people with diabetes. Physical activity goals were discussed during check-ups in 53.0% of cases; re-education and goal adjustments were provided in 33.4% when health status changed; and clear instructions were documented in 25.5% of medical records. Conclusions: Diabetologists’ overall knowledge of physical activity was found to be at least satisfactory in 90% of participants. Knowledge of the guidelines is insufficient in 75% of participants. The prescribing habits are inadequate in half of the participants. Full article

This paper combines Christopher Alexander’s pattern language with generative AI into a hybrid design framework. The result is a narrative synthesis that can be useful for informed project design. Advanced large language models (LLMs) enable the real-time synthesis of design patterns, making complex architectural choices accessible and comprehensible to stakeholders without specialized architectural knowledge. A lightweight, web-based tool lets project teams rapidly assemble context-specific subsets of Alexander’s 253 patterns, reducing a traditionally unwieldy 1166-page corpus to a concise, shareable list. Demonstrated through a case study of a university department building, this method results in environments that are psychologically welcoming, fostering health, productivity, and emotional well-being. LLMs translate these curated patterns into vivid experiential narratives—complete with neuroscientifically informed ornamentation. LLMs produce representative images from the verbal narrative, revealing a surprisingly traditional design that was never input as a prompt. Two separate LLMs (for cross-checking) then predict the pattern-generated design to catalyze improved productivity as compared to a standard campus building. By bridging abstract design principles and concrete human experience, this approach democratizes architectural planning grounded on Alexander’s human-centered, participatory ethos. Full article

In this paper we examine the OpenJDK library implementation of the ConcurrentLinkedQueue. We use model checking to verify that it behaves according to the algorithm it is based on: Michael and Scott’s fast and practical non-blocking concurrent queue algorithm. In addition, we develop a simple concurrent queue specification in CSP and verify that Michael and Scott’s algorithm satisfies it. We conclude that both the algorithm and the implementation are correct and both conform to our simpler concurrent queue specification, which we can use in place of either implementation in future verification tasks. The complete code is available on GitHub. Full article

This article describes a case study of the partnership between Healthy Birth Initiatives, a community-based organization (CBO) and Black-led public health nurse home visiting program, and the maternal health division of the Providence Health System located in the Pacific Northwest. This study’s purpose was to explore the formation, significance, and impact of this partnership from the perspectives of staff and leadership members from both organizations. We conducted a case study through qualitative interviews with staff, participant observation, and debrief of leadership meetings. We completed a hybrid deductive–inductive thematic analysis of the data, followed by member checking with study participants and other key interest holders. Key facilitators of the CBO–health system partnership included the vital role of leaders in prioritizing the partnership; health system willingness to incorporate new information from the CBO to improve care; and health system utilization of resources to institutionalize changes that emerged from this partnership. Challenges to the CBO–health system partnership included CBO resource limitations; fragmented referral processes and information sharing; and the persistence required to nurture the relationship without formalized roles. This study contributes to the literature by offering staff perspectives on how a CBO–health system partnership formed, successes, early lessons learned, and practical suggestions for how to develop stronger alignment to provide culturally responsive patient-centered care to Black families. Full article

Background/Objectives: The relationship between OSA and adult hypertension has been extensively studied; however, it remains understudied in pediatric patients without OSA. The aim of this study is to identify factors associated with pediatric hypertension without OSA, through an IRB-approved retrospective chart review of patients who underwent polysomnography at Nemours Children’s Hospital, DE/NJ between January 2020 and July 2023. Methods: Eligibility criteria included children 8–17 years, completed PSG, and clinic visit blood pressure (BP). Anthropometrics, demographics, social determinants, and medical history were obtained from electronic medical records. Hypertension was defined as the average systolic and/or diastolic BP that is ≥95th percentile for gender, age, and height based on AAP Clinical Practice Guidelines. All variables were checked for normality. Chi-square tests for categorical data and Wilcoxon rank sum tests for continuous data were used to test significance between non-OSA non-hypertensives (NH) and hypertensives (H). p < 0.05 is considered significant. Results: Of 285 charts evaluated, 137 were classified as non-OSA. Patient information, including parents in household, smoking exposure, and food allergies, were statistically significant (p < 0.05) in hypertensive pediatric patients without OSA. Hypertension was significantly correlated (p < 0.05) with birth weight, BMI, daytime heart rate, systolic BP, and diastolic BP. Statistically significant differences (p < 0.05) were found in mental illnesses, neurological disease, and respiratory disease. Among polysomnography parameters, only nighttime heart rate was found to be statistically significant. Conclusions: The data suggests that in pediatric patients without OSA, there are multiple factors and co-morbidities associated with hypertension. These factors and co-morbidities warrant additional follow up in clinical practice to mitigate the risks of hypertension in pediatric patients. Full article

Background/Objectives: Miscarriage is a common pregnancy complication that significantly impacts individuals’ health due to its physical and psychological effects. This study aimed to investigate the association between periodontal health and hematological parameters in women who experienced miscarriage before the 20th week of gestation, and to assess the potential predictive value of these parameters for miscarriage risk by comparing them with those of women with an uncomplicated pregnancy course. Methods: This study was a prospective case–control and cross-sectional study. It included a total of 82 participants, comprising 41 women with miscarriage and 41 healthy pregnant controls. The periodontal examinations included measurements of the Gingival Index (GI), Plaque Index (PI), Probing Depth (PD), Clinical Attachment Loss (CAL), and Simplified Calculus Index (SCI). Additionally, complete blood counts (CBCs) were obtained from all participants. Appropriate statistical analyses, including non-parametric, correlation, logistic regression, and ROC analyses, were conducted, with the significance level set at p < 0.05. Results: The primary outcome measure was CAL as an indicator of periodontal disease severity and its association with miscarriage risk. Additional outcomes included Plateletcrit (PCT), the Platelet Count (PLT), and the Neutrophil-to-Lymphocyte Ratio (NLR) to evaluate systemic inflammatory responses and their correlations with periodontal parameters. CAL was significantly elevated in the miscarriage group (p < 0.001) and emerged as the strongest predictor of miscarriage risk (OR = 0.0537, p < 0.001, AUC = 0.8691). PCT was significantly higher in the miscarriage group (p = 0.017) and positively correlated with the GI (p = 0.041), suggesting a link between systemic inflammation and periodontal health. Conclusions: Considering this study’s limitations, CAL was the strongest predictor of miscarriage, while PLT and PCT had some discriminative power. Collaboration between obstetricians and dentists can facilitate early diagnosis and intervention by promoting routine oral health check-ups before and during pregnancy. Additionally, integrating oral health assessments into prenatal care and developing public health policies could enhance access to dental services during both preconception and pregnancy periods. Full article

Organizational performance defines how well an organization achieves its goals and objectives. To fulfill these, the organization should improve its logistical competencies including delivery speed, order accuracy, and returns handling. At the same time, social media plays an important role. Therefore, the main objective of this study is to examine and research the influence of logistical competence on the performance of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) with the moderating effect of the competitive advantages of social media. We used a quantitative, descriptive, cause–effect, and cross-sectional approach to actualize this research. A non-probability convenience sampling method was used as it is cost-effective, practical, easy to access, and time-efficient. The main variables, such as delivery speed, order accuracy, and returns handling, were analyzed to determine their influence on organizational performance. A total of 163 respondents participated, ranging from middle to top management employees in SMEs, specifically in Jordan, who completed a structured Google form. Simple, multiple, and hierarchical regression were used to check the hypotheses in this research. The conclusion shows that logistical competence positively affects organizational performance, with competitive advantages in social media campaigns enhancing this effect significantly; this was evident as social media campaigns emerged as an essential platform for marketing logistical strengths and boosting customer engagement. This study and research give recommendations for SMEs to integrate logistics and E-marketing strategies properly. Regarding the study limitations, we see that the regional focus and the small sample size are acknowledged. In the future, research is highly encouraged which looks into industry-specific dynamics, advancing technologies, and cross-cultural contexts. This research bridges the gap between logistics and marketing, thus showcasing a framework promoting logistical competence to gain a competitive advantage in the SME market. Full article

Experimental design is important for researchers and those in other fields to find factors affecting an experimental response. The response surface methodology (RSM) is a special experimental design used to evaluate the significant factors influencing a process and confirm the optimum conditions for different factors. RSM models represent the relationship between the response and the influencing factors established with the regression analysis. Then these equations are used to produce the contour and response surface plots for observers to determine the optimization. The influence of regression techniques on model building has not been thoroughly studied. This study collected twenty-five datasets from the literature. The backward elimination procedure and t-test value of each variable were adopted to evaluate the significant effect on the response. Modern regression techniques were used. The results of this study present some problems of RSM studies in the previous literature, including using the complete equation without checking the statistical test, using the at-once variable deletion method to delete the variables whose p-values are higher than the preset value, the inconsistency between the proposed RSM equations and the contour and response surface plots, the misuse of the ANOVA table of the sequential model to keep all variables in the linear or square term without testing for each variable, the non-normal and non-constant variance conditions of datasets, and the finding of some influential data points. The suggestions for applying RSM for researchers are training in the modern regression technique, using the backward elimination technique for sequential variable selection, and increasing the sample numbers with three replicates for each run. Full article

Background: Iliotibial band syndrome (ITBS) through the tensor fascia latae (TFL) is a well-known pathology among runners whose etiology is not completely clear, nor is the effectiveness of plantar insoles for different types of feet known well enough for them to be considered a possible approach for this issue. Objective: to understand how foot type and foot orthotics may influence the electromyographic (EMG) activity of the TFL. Methods: A total of 41 healthy recreational runners (mean age 32.66 ± 3.51) were recruited for the present cross-sectional study, categorizing them as neutral (NEUg = 15), supinators (SUPg = 15), and pronators (PROg = 11) according to the foot postural index, over a period of 11 months. The EMG of the TFL was measured using a surface electromyograph device while they ran on a treadmill at a constant speed of 9 km/h for 3 min, randomly using supinating (SUP), pronating (PRO), or heel lift (TAL) insoles of 5 mm each one, compared to the baseline condition (SIN). The intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) was performed to check the reproducibility of the tests, pairwise comparisons with Bonferroni adjustment were made, and to test the differences between measurements, the Friedman test was performed. Results: The Shapiro–Wilk test indicated a normal distribution of the sample (p > 0.05). Almost all obtained results showed a “perfect reproducibility” close to one; a significant statistical increase was observed in the mean EMG values from NEUg (87.58 ± 4.81 mV) to SUPg (97.17 ± 4.3 mV) (p < 0.05) during SIN+ basal condition. Additionally, there was a statistical reduction from SIN (87.58 ± 4.81 mV) vs. PRO (74.69 ± 3.77 mV) (p < 0.001) in NEUg and from SIN (97.17 ± 4.3 mV) vs. PRO (90.96 ± 4 mV) (p < 0.001) in SUPg. Conclusions: The SUPg exhibited increased activation of TFL fibers compared to the NEUg, likely due to the biomechanical demands associated with a supinated foot type. In contrast, the use of PRO appeared to promote relaxation of the TFL fibers by inducing internal rotation of the lower limb. Based on these preliminary results from a cross-sectional study in a healthy population, it is recommended to assess foot type when addressing ITBS and to consider the use of PRO as a complementary therapeutic strategy alongside conventional treatments. Full article