Search Results (562)

With the globalized deployment of cross-border vehicle location services and the trajectory data, which contain user identity information and geographically sensitive features, the variability in privacy regulations in different jurisdictions can further exacerbate the technical and compliance challenges of data privacy protection. Traditional static differential privacy mechanisms struggle to accommodate spatiotemporal heterogeneity in dynamic scenarios because of the use of a fixed privacy budget parameter, leading to wasted privacy budgets or insufficient protection of sensitive regions. This study proposes a reinforcement-learning-based dynamic noise optimization method (DNO-RL) that dynamically adjusts the Laplacian noise scale by real-time sensing of vehicle density, region sensitivity, and the remaining privacy budget via a deep Q-network (DQN), with the aim of providing context-adaptive differential privacy protection for cross-border vehicle location services. Simulation experiments of cross-border scenarios based on the T-Drive dataset showed that DNO-RL reduced the average localization error by 28.3% and saved 17.9% of the privacy budget compared with the local differential privacy under the same privacy budget. This study provides a new paradigm for the dynamic privacy–utility balancing of cross-border vehicular networking services. Full article

In this pilot study, the crossing behavior of elementary school students commuting on bicycles was investigated with the objective of enhancing safety around pedestrian crossings within school zones. With a noticeable increase in crashes involving young cyclists near schools, this research assessed the effectiveness of visual nudges in the form of red strips displaying “CYCLISTS DISMOUNT” instructions. Initial observations indicated a lack of compliance with dismounting regulations. After the initial observations, a specific elementary school was selected for the implementation of the nudging intervention and additional pre- (N = 91) and post-intervention (N = 71) observations. The pre-intervention observations again revealed poor adherence to the regulations requiring cyclists to dismount at specific points. Following our targeted intervention, the post-intervention observations marked an improvement in compliance. Indeed, the visual nudge effectively communicated the necessity of dismounting at a critical location, leading to a higher rate of adherence among cyclists (52.74% pre-intervention, 97.18% post-intervention). Although it also indirectly affected the behavior of the accompanying adult, who more often held hands with their children while crossing, this effect was weaker than the direct effect on dismounting behavior (20.88% pre-intervention, 39.44% post-intervention). The findings of the current pilot study underscore the possible impact of nudging on behavior and advocate for a combined approach utilizing physical nudges to bolster safety within school zones. Follow-up research, including, for instance, multiple sites, long-term effects, or children traveling alone, is called for. Full article

Deep Federated Learning (DFL) revolutionizes machine learning (ML) by enabling collaborative model training across diverse, decentralized data sources without direct data sharing, emphasizing user privacy and data sovereignty. Despite its potential, DFL’s application in sensitive sectors is hindered by challenges in meeting rigorous standards like the GDPR, with traditional setups struggling to ensure compliance and maintain trust. Addressing these issues, our research introduces an innovative Zero Trust-based DFL architecture designed for GDPR compliant systems, integrating advanced security and privacy mechanisms to ensure safe and transparent cross-node data processing. Our base paper proposed the basic GDPR-Compliant DFL Architecture. Now we validate the previously proposed architecture by formally verifying it using High-Level Petri Nets (HLPNs). This Zero Trust-based framework facilitates secure, decentralized model training without direct data sharing. Furthermore, we have also implemented a case study using the MNIST and CIFAR-10 datasets to evaluate the existing approach with the proposed Zero Trust-based DFL methodology. Our experiments confirmed its effectiveness in enhancing trust, complying with GDPR, and promoting DFL adoption in privacy-sensitive areas, achieving secure, ethical Artificial Intelligence (AI) with transparent and efficient data processing. Full article

Background: Pain is a problem faced by critically ill surgical patients and has a major impact on their outcomes. Pain assessment is therefore essential for effective pain management, with a combination of pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatment. Clinical supervision, supported by models such as SafeCare, can improve professional development, safety and the quality of care in intensive care units. Objectives: This study aimed to: (1) assess current pain assessment practices in a polyvalent Intensive Care Unit (ICU) in the Porto district; (2) identify nurses’ training needs regarding the Clinical Supervision-Sensitive Indicator—Pain; and (3) evaluate the impact of clinical supervision sessions on pain assessment practices. Methods: A quantitative, quasi-experimental, cross-sectional study with a pre- and post-intervention design was conducted. Based on the SafeCare model, it included a situational diagnosis, 6 clinical supervision sessions (February 2023), and outcome evaluation via nursing record audits (November 2022 and May 2023) in 31 total critical ill patients. Pain was assessed using standardised tools, in line with institutional protocols. Data was analysed using Software Statistical Package for the Social Sciences v25.0. Results: Pain was highly prevalent in the first 24 h, decreasing during hospitalisation. Generalised acute abdominal pain predominated, with mild to moderate intensity, and was exacerbated by wound care and mobilisation/positioning. Pain management combined pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatment. There was an improvement in all the parameters of the pain indicator post-intervention. Conclusions: Despite routine assessments, gaps remained in reassessing pain post-analgesia and during invasive procedures. Targeted clinical supervision and ongoing training proved effective in improving compliance with protocols and supporting safer, more consistent pain management. Full article

Background/Objectives: Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) is the most prevalent vestibular disorder encountered in clinical settings and is highly responsive to evidence-based diagnostic and therapeutic interventions. However, variations in practice patterns among physician specialties can compromise timely diagnosis and effective treatment. Understanding these variations is essential for improving clinical outcomes and standardizing care. This study aimed to assess the diagnostic and treatment practices for BPPV among Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) specialists, neurologists, general practitioners, and family physicians in Saudi Arabia and to examine how these practices are influenced by clinical experience and patient case exposure. Methods: A cross-sectional, questionnaire-based study was conducted between April 2023 and March 2024 at King Khalid University, Abha, Saudi Arabia. A total of 413 physicians were recruited using purposive sampling. Data were analyzed using IBM SPSS version 24.0. Parametric tests, including one-way ANOVA and chi-square tests, were used to assess differences across groups. A p-value of <0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: Overall, all physician groups exhibited limited adherence to guideline-recommended positional diagnostic and therapeutic maneuvers. However, ENT specialists and neurologists demonstrated relatively higher compliance, particularly in performing the Dix–Hallpike test, with 46.97% and 26.79% reporting “always” using the maneuver, respectively (p < 0.001, Cramér’s V = 0.22). Neurologists were the most consistent in conducting oculomotor examinations, with 73.68% reporting routine performance (p < 0.001, Cramér’s V = 0.35). Epley maneuver usage was highest among neurologists (86.36%) and ENT specialists (77.14%) compared to family physicians (50.60%) and GPs (67.50%) (p = 0.044). Physicians with 11–15 years of experience and >50 BPPV case exposures consistently showed a greater use of diagnostic maneuvers, repositioning techniques, and guideline-concordant medication use (betahistine 76.67%; p < 0.001). Continuing medical education (CME) participation and the avoidance of unnecessary imaging were also highest in this group (46.67% and 3.33%, respectively; p < 0.001). Conclusions: Significant inter-specialty differences exist in the management of BPPV in Saudi Arabia. Greater clinical experience and higher case exposure are associated with improved adherence to evidence-based practices. Targeted educational interventions are needed, particularly in primary care, to enhance guideline implementation. Full article

Background/Objectives: Emotional intelligence has emerged as a key factor in shaping nursing performance and care quality, yet its specific mechanisms and impact within the Greek public healthcare context remain underexplored. This study aimed to investigate the role of emotional intelligence in ethical behavior, crisis management, and the perceived quality of care among nurses working in Greek public hospitals. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among practicing nurses using validated instruments to assess emotional intelligence, ethical compliance, crisis management skills, and care quality. Data were analyzed using covariance-based structural equation modeling (CB SEM) to examine both direct and indirect relationships among variables. Results: The results indicated that emotional intelligence training had a strong and significant effect on nurses’ ethical behavior and their ability to manage critical situations. However, the direct effect of emotional intelligence on the perceived quality of care was not significant; instead, its influence was mediated through improvements in ethics and crisis management. Conclusions: These findings suggest that the benefits of emotional intelligence in nursing are most evident when integrated with supportive organizational practices and ongoing professional development. Overall, this study highlights the need for comprehensive emotional intelligence training and a supportive workplace culture to enhance ethical standards, resilience, and patient care quality in Greek healthcare settings. Full article

Women’s decision-making autonomy is widely recognized as a critical determinant of maternal, newborn, and child health (MNCH). However, prevailing measures often conflate genuine autonomy with decisions made within traditional gender roles, risking an overstatement of women’s empowerment. This study examines the extent to which reported female decision-making autonomy reflects authentic agency versus role-based compliance in a patriarchal context. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 280 male household heads in Kakamega County, Kenya, whose partners were pregnant or recently postpartum. Using multi-stage cluster sampling and structured interviews, men reported on household and MNCH decision-making and their rationales, categorized as gender-role conformity, belief in gender equality, or other reasons. Although 40.4% reported that their partners made decisions independently, only 11.4% attributed it to a belief in women’s equality; 28% framed it within traditional gender roles. Men were over four times more likely to perceive women’s decisions as role-based than autonomous (AOR = 4.40; 95% CI: 2.48–5.78). Younger men (18–34) were more likely to report female decision-making (AOR = 5.54; 95% CI: 5.08–7.27), without necessarily endorsing egalitarian norms. Findings highlight the urgent need for gender-transformative MNCH interventions that move beyond surface-level autonomy to address deeper structural inequities. Full article

Background and Objectives: Orthodontic treatment aims to enhance dental aesthetics and function, yet many patients report dissatisfaction. This study was designed with the following objectives: To assess overall patient satisfaction during active orthodontic treatment; to identify key psychosocial and clinical predictors of satisfaction, including self-confidence, social experiences, and cost perception; to evaluate the impact of orthodontist–patient communication on satisfaction and perceived treatment outcomes; to explore the relationship between aesthetic improvement and willingness to undergo treatment again. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted using structured questionnaires to assess satisfaction, pain perception, treatment expectations, and communication quality. Statistical analyses, including correlations and regression models, were used to identify predictors of satisfaction. The study included 450 orthodontic patients from the north-eastern region of Romania, undergoing active treatment at the time of data collection. Results: The strongest predictor of satisfaction was improved self-confidence and smile aesthetics (r = 0.62). Effective communication with orthodontists significantly increased satisfaction (r = 0.58, p = 0.002), while perceived high costs had a negative impact (r = −0.41). Pain and discomfort were common, with 90% of patients experiencing treatment-related pain, leading to reduced compliance. Social embarrassment due to braces also contributed to dissatisfaction (r = −0.47). Conclusions: Patient satisfaction with orthodontic treatment is primarily influenced by aesthetic improvements and effective communication. While enhanced smile perception boosts confidence, financial concerns and social discomfort may negatively affect the overall experience. Improving accessibility to treatment and providing comprehensive patient support are essential for optimizing patient satisfaction. Full article

Despite navigation advancements in enhanced sensor utilization and increased focus on maritime training and education, most marine accidents still involve collisions with high human involvement. Furthermore, navigators’ knowledge and application of the most often misunderstood Rule 10 Traffic Separation Schemes (TSS) according to the Convention on the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREG) represents the first focus in this study. To provide insight into the level of understanding and knowledge regarding COLREG Rule 10, a customized, worldwide survey has been created and disseminated among marine industry professionals. The survey results reveal a notable knowledge gap in Rule 10, where we initially assumed that more than half of the respondents know COLREG regulations well. According to the probability calculation and chi-square test results, all three categories (OOW, Master, and others) have significant rule misunderstanding. In response to the COLREG misunderstanding, together with the increasing density of maritime traffic, the implementation of Decision Support Systems (DSS) in navigation has become crucial for ensuring compliance with regulatory frameworks and enhancing navigational safety in general. This study presents a structural approach to vessel prioritization and decision-making within a DSS framework, focusing on the classification and response of the own vessel (OV) to bow-crossing scenarios within the TSS. Through the real-time integration of AIS navigational status data, the proposed DSS Architecture offers a structured, rule-compliant architecture to enhance navigational safety and the decision-making process within the TSS. Furthermore, implementing a Fall-Back Strategy (FBS) represents the key innovation factor, which ensures system resilience by directing operator response if opposing vessels disobey COLREG rules. Based on the vessel’s dynamic context and COLREG hierarchy, the proposed DSS Architecture identifies and informs the navigator regarding stand-on or give-way obligations among vessels. Full article

An accurate assessment of sidewalk conditions is critical for ensuring compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), particularly to safeguard mobility for wheelchair users. This paper presents a novel 3D reconstruction framework based on neural radiance field (NeRF), which utilize a monocular video input from consumer-grade cameras to generate high-fidelity 3D models of sidewalk environments. The framework enables automatic extraction of ADA-relevant geometric features, including the running slope, the cross slope, and vertical displacements, facilitating an efficient and scalable compliance assessment process. A comparative study is conducted across three surveying methods—manual measurements, LiDAR scanning, and the proposed NeRF-based approach—evaluated on four sidewalks and one curb ramp. Each method was assessed based on accuracy, cost, time, level of automation, and scalability. The NeRF-based approach achieved high agreement with LiDAR-derived ground truth, delivering an F1 score of 96.52%, a precision of 96.74%, and a recall of 96.34% for ADA compliance classification. These results underscore the potential of NeRF to serve as a cost-effective, automated alternative to traditional and LiDAR-based methods, with sufficient precision for widespread deployment in municipal sidewalk audits. Full article

Egg yolk immunoglobulin Y (IgY) possesses advantages such as low cost, easy availability, simple preparation, high antigen specificity, absence of drug residues, and compliance with animal welfare standards, making it an environmentally friendly and safe alternative to antibiotics. This research utilizes IgY antibody technology to develop a multivalent passive immune vaccine for major pathogenic bacteria in aquaculture. In this study, IgY antibodies against live Shewanella xiamenensis (LSX-IgY) and inactivated S. xiamenensis (ISX-IgY) were prepared by immunizing laying hens, and passive immunization protection experiments were conducted in Carassius auratus infected with S. xiamenensis and Aeromonas hydrophila. The passive immunization protection rates of LSX-IgY and ISX-IgY against S. xiamenensis were 63.64% and 72.73%, respectively, and the passive cross-protection rates against A. hydrophila were 50% and 71.43%, respectively. Further, C. auratus sera could specifically bind to S. xiamenensis or A. hydrophila in vitro, and the phagocytic activity of leukocytes was increased. LSX-IgY and ISX-IgY could reduce the bacterial load in the C. auratus kidneys. Meanwhile, they could significantly reduce the levels of antioxidant factors in serum and inhibit the mRNA expression of inflammation-related factors in the kidneys and spleens. Additionally, histopathology and immunofluorescence analysis showed that both IgY preparations preserved tissue integrity and reduced the expression of apoptosis factor (p53) and DNA damage factor (γH2A.X) of visceral organs, respectively. In summary, LSX-IgY and ISX-IgY can combat various bacterial infections, with no significant difference between the two. Additionally, inactivated bacterial immunization is more aligned with animal welfare standards for laying hens. Therefore, ISX-IgY is expected to serve as a multivalent vaccine against major aquaculture pathogens. Full article

Background/Objectives: Artificial intelligence (AI) is beginning to be applied in wound ballistics, showing preliminary potential to improve the accuracy and objectivity of forensic analyses. This review explores the current state of AI applications in forensic firearm wound analysis, emphasizing its potential to address challenges such as subjective interpretations and data heterogeneity. Methods: A systematic review adhering to PRISMA guidelines was conducted using databases such as Scopus and Web of Science. Keywords focused on AI and GSW classification identified 502 studies, narrowed down to 4 relevant articles after rigorous screening based on inclusion and exclusion criteria. Results: These studies examined the role of deep learning (DL) models in classifying GSWs by type, shooting distance, and entry or exit characteristics. The key findings demonstrated that DL models like TinyResNet, ResNet152, and ConvNext Tiny achieved accuracy ranging from 87.99% to 98%. Models were effective in tasks such as classifying GSWs and estimating shooting distances. However, most studies were exploratory in nature, with small sample sizes and, in some cases, reliance on animal models, which limits generalizability to real-world forensic scenarios. Conclusions: Comparisons with other forensic AI applications revealed that large, diverse datasets significantly enhance model performance. Transparent and interpretable AI systems utilizing techniques are essential for judicial acceptance and ethical compliance. Despite the encouraging results, the field remains in an early stage of development. Limitations highlight the need for standardized protocols, cross-institutional collaboration, and the integration of multimodal data for robust forensic AI systems. Future research should focus on overcoming current data and validation constraints, ensuring the ethical use of human forensic data, and developing AI tools that are scientifically sound and legally defensible. Full article

Background: Informal welders in Pretoria West face growing occupational safety risks due to hazardous working environments and limited regulatory oversight. Despite the high-risk nature of their work, many remain unaware of relevant safety legislation and inconsistently use personal protective equipment (PPE). This study aimed to investigate the occupational safety risks, challenges, and levels of compliance with safety practices among informal welders in Pretoria West, South Africa. Methods: A cross-sectional mixed-methods approach was employed, incorporating both qualitative and quantitative designs. Data were collected from 40 male welders (aged 20–55 years) using structured questionnaires, observational checklists, and semi-structured interviews. Descriptive statistics were generated using Microsoft Excel, while thematic content analysis was applied to the qualitative data. Results: Eighty-five percent (85%) of welders reported using gas welding, and more than half had received training in welding and PPE use; however, 47.5% had no formal training. A high prevalence of work-related injuries was reported, including burns, cuts, and eye damage. Common safety concerns identified were burns (42.5%), electric shocks (35%), and malfunctioning equipment. Observational data revealed inconsistent PPE use, particularly with flame-resistant overalls and eye protection. Qualitative insights highlighted challenges such as demanding client expectations, hazardous physical environments, and inadequate equipment maintenance. Many sites lacked compliance with occupational safety standards. Conclusion: The study reveals critical gaps in safety knowledge, training, and PPE compliance among informal welders. These deficiencies significantly elevate the risk of occupational injuries. Strengthening occupational health and safety regulations, improving access to PPE, and delivering targeted training interventions are essential to safeguard the well-being of welders and those in their surrounding communities. Full article

The consumption and farming of insects are gaining global attention as sustainable alternatives to conventional protein sources. Industrial processing of insects into powders or pastes complicates species identification, raising concerns about product authenticity, food safety, and potential fraud. In Western countries, particularly in Europe, the sector is expanding under a stringent regulatory framework, especially regarding rearing substrates, which hinders economic development. This study aimed to assess the species authenticity of commercial insect-based food and feed products and detect the presence of animal-derived DNA from unauthorized substrates. A total of 119 samples (pure insect meals and processed products) were collected from various origins. Species-specific real-time PCR assays targeted Tenebrio molitor, Hermetia illucens, Alphitobius diaperinus, Acheta domesticus, Bombyx mori, and Gryllodes sigillatus, alongside assays for ruminant, porcine, and poultry DNA. High-throughput sequencing (HTS) using metabarcoding confirmed and broadened species detection. Most samples contained the declared species; however, cases of mislabeling, substitution, and cross-contamination were observed. A few insect meals contained animal DNA which could suggest potential use of prohibited substrates. These findings highlight the urgent need for standardized authentication methods and improved transparency to ensure regulatory compliance, consumer trust, and sustainable development of the insect-based sector. Full article

Background and Objectives: Celiac disease (CD) is a common gluten-related disorder associated with significantly worsened quality of life. The aim of this pilot study was to evaluate the quality of life of adult celiac patients living in Lithuania and their compliance with a gluten-free diet. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted on individuals aged 18 to 75 years diagnosed with CD and residing within the borders of Lithuania. This pilot study involved 73 participants, comprising 68 females and 5 males. The CD Specific Quality of Life Scale (CD-QOL) consisted of 20 items across four sub-dimensions. Responses to scale items were graded with a score ranging from 1 (not at all) to 5 (very much). The total score obtained from the scale can range up to 100, with a score < 40 classified as poor, 40–50 as moderate, and > 50 as good quality of life. Additionally, ten questions related to gluten-free diet-related quality of life were used. Results: The mean age of diagnosis for females (32.6 ± 11.7) was higher than that for males (22.0 ± 12.1), p < 0.05. The mean self-reported BMI for males (25.8 ± 4.5) was higher than that for females (22.3 ± 5.2), p < 0.05. The mean quality-of-life score (66.4 ± 12.5) was significantly higher in the good quality-of-life group compared to the poor group (33.7 ± 3.9), p < 0.001. Half of the respondents (50.7%) reported that gluten-free products are expensive, and 45.2% confirmed difficulties in dining out on a gluten-free diet. Conclusions: The results of this pilot study indicate that CD is associated with a worsened quality of life and that compliance with a gluten-free diet is primarily influenced by economic factors, such as the high cost of the diet. Full article