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14 pages, 1452 KiB  
Review
Recent Advances in Liquid Metal-Based Stretchable and Conductive Composites for Wearable Sensor Applications
by Boo Young Kim, Wan Yusmawati Wan Yusoff, Paolo Matteini, Peter Baumli and Byungil Hwang
Biosensors 2025, 15(7), 466; https://doi.org/10.3390/bios15070466 (registering DOI) - 19 Jul 2025
Abstract
Liquid metals (LMs), with their unique combination of high electrical conductivity and mechanical deformability, have emerged as promising materials for stretchable electronics and biointerfaces. However, the practical application of bulk LMs in wearable sensors has been hindered by processing challenges and low stability. [...] Read more.
Liquid metals (LMs), with their unique combination of high electrical conductivity and mechanical deformability, have emerged as promising materials for stretchable electronics and biointerfaces. However, the practical application of bulk LMs in wearable sensors has been hindered by processing challenges and low stability. To overcome these limitations, liquid metal particles (LMPs) encapsulated by native oxide shells have gained attention as versatile and stable fillers for stretchable and conductive composites. Recent advances have focused on the development of LM-based hybrid composites that combine LMPs with metal, carbon, or polymeric fillers. These systems offer enhanced electrical and mechanical properties and can form conductive networks without the need for additional sintering processes. They also impart composites with multiple functions such as self-healing, electromagnetic interference shielding, and recyclability. Hence, the present review summarizes the fabrication methods and functional properties of LM-based composites, with a particular focus on their applications in wearable sensing. In addition, recent developments in the use of LM composites for physical motion monitoring (e.g., strain and pressure sensing) and electrophysiological signal recording (e.g., EMG and ECG) are presented, and the key challenges and opportunities for next-generation wearable platforms are discussed. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Application of Biomaterials in Electronics and Biosensors)
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15 pages, 1896 KiB  
Article
RRT-GPMP2: A Motion Planner for Mobile Robots in Complex Maze Environments
by Jiawei Meng, Yuanchang Liu, Richard Bucknall and Danail Stoyanov
Electronics 2025, 14(14), 2888; https://doi.org/10.3390/electronics14142888 - 18 Jul 2025
Abstract
With the development of science and technology, mobile robots are playing a significant role in the new round of world revolution. Mobile robots could serve as assistants or substitutes for humans across a wide range of applications. To enhance mobile robot automation, advanced [...] Read more.
With the development of science and technology, mobile robots are playing a significant role in the new round of world revolution. Mobile robots could serve as assistants or substitutes for humans across a wide range of applications. To enhance mobile robot automation, advanced motion planners must be integrated to handle diverse environments. Navigating complex maze environments is a key challenge for mobile robots in various practical scenarios. Therefore, this article proposes a novel hierarchical motion planner named the rapidly exploring random tree-based Gaussian process motion planner 2, which aims to tackle the motion planning problem for mobile robots in complex maze environments. Specifically, the proposed motion planner successfully combines the advantages of the trajectory optimisation motion planning method and sampling-based motion planning method. To validate the performance and practicability of the proposed motion planner, we tested it in a series of self-constructed maze simulations and applied it on a surface marine robot in a high-fidelity maritime simulation environment in the Robot operating system. Full article
24 pages, 276 KiB  
Article
Pneumococcal Infection and Vaccination-Related Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices Among Saudi Residents
by Wed S. Althobaiti, Abeer D. Alnefaie, Kaifah M. Althaali, Ola M. Alsufyani, Yassmin M. Shebany, Ayman A. Atalla, Ibtihal M. Alotaibi, Eman Y. Santali and Sayed F. Abdelwahab
Pathogens 2025, 14(7), 711; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens14070711 - 18 Jul 2025
Abstract
Background and aims: Pneumococcal infections, primarily caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae, pose significant global public health challenges, particularly in vulnerable populations. In Saudi Arabia, the introduction of pneumococcal vaccination has been a crucial step towards its prevention. However, gaps in public knowledge [...] Read more.
Background and aims: Pneumococcal infections, primarily caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae, pose significant global public health challenges, particularly in vulnerable populations. In Saudi Arabia, the introduction of pneumococcal vaccination has been a crucial step towards its prevention. However, gaps in public knowledge and attitudes toward the vaccine may hinder its effectiveness. Recent studies indicate a lack of awareness about the benefits of pneumococcal vaccination, suggesting a need for further investigation. This study determined the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of Saudi residents regarding pneumococcal infection and vaccination. Study design and Methods: This observational cross-sectional study was conducted across Saudi Arabia from November 2024 to March 2025. Data were collected through a self-administered online questionnaire designed to evaluate KAP towards pneumococcal infection and vaccination. The sample size was calculated to be 385 participants. The questionnaire underwent expert validation and a pilot study to ensure clarity and reliability. The questionnaire was distributed via social media platforms to collect the data. Data management was conducted using Microsoft Excel, and statistical analysis was performed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) software version 26. Results: This study included 1230 participants of whom 630 (51.2%) were females and 1075 (87.4%) were Saudi citizens. Almost half of the participants (50.2%) were aged 18–30 years, and 498 (40.5%) were married. The average knowledge score was 58.6%, indicating a moderate level of understanding among the participants regarding pneumococcal infection. Also, the average attitudes score was 70.6%, reflecting a generally positive outlook towards the importance of pneumococcal vaccination and its potential to limit infection spread. In addition, the average practices score was 68%, indicating a fairly good level of behaviors regarding vaccination practices. Statistical analyses showed that demographic factors and clinical characteristics significantly shape individuals’ KAP towards pneumococcal infection and vaccination. Conclusions: This study highlights the critical need to improve KAP regarding pneumococcal infections and vaccinations among Saudi residents and could help in developing more targeted and effective public health interventions to protect Saudi residents from pneumococcal infections. Full article
27 pages, 11254 KiB  
Article
Improved RRT-Based Obstacle-Avoidance Path Planning for Dual-Arm Robots in Complex Environments
by Jing Wang, Genliang Xiong, Bowen Dang, Jianli Chen, Jixian Zhang and Hui Xie
Machines 2025, 13(7), 621; https://doi.org/10.3390/machines13070621 - 18 Jul 2025
Abstract
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 [...] Read more.
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
(This article belongs to the Section Robotics, Mechatronics and Intelligent Machines)
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21 pages, 691 KiB  
Systematic Review
Breast Cancer Survivors’ Perception on Health Promotion and Healthy Lifestyle: A Systematic Review and Qualitative Meta-Synthesis
by Luca Guardamagna, Orejeta Diamanti, Giovanna Artioli, Lorenzo Casole, Matteo Bernardi, Francesca Bonadies, Enrico Zennaro, Gloria Maria Modena, Tiziana Nania and Federica Dellafiore
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2025, 22(7), 1131; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph22071131 - 17 Jul 2025
Viewed by 52
Abstract
Aims: To systematically review and synthesize qualitative research exploring the Breast Cancer Survivors (BCSs)’ perception of health promotion interventions and informing strategies to mitigate recurrence risk within five years post-treatment and improve clinical outcomes. Specifically, this study addresses the question: “How do women [...] Read more.
Aims: To systematically review and synthesize qualitative research exploring the Breast Cancer Survivors (BCSs)’ perception of health promotion interventions and informing strategies to mitigate recurrence risk within five years post-treatment and improve clinical outcomes. Specifically, this study addresses the question: “How do women diagnosed with breast cancer perceive health promotion interventions for recurrence prevention?” Design: A systematic review and qualitative meta-synthesis were performed. Data Sources: A systematic search of scientific databases (CINAHL, MEDLINE, and Scopus) was undertaken in November 2024. The reference list was cross-referenced and hand-searched to identify additional articles. Review Methods: Studies were included if they met the following criteria: they were primary qualitative studies focusing on BCSs within five years post-treatment, involving participants who had completed surgery, radiotherapy, or chemotherapy in the same time frame, as this period is critical for monitoring recurrence and implementing health promotion interventions. Only studies published in peer-reviewed journals and written in Italian, English, French, or Spanish were considered, provided that an abstract and the full text were available. Moreover, eligible studies had to be conducted in high-income or middle-income countries. Studies were excluded if they focused exclusively on advanced or metastatic breast cancer, if they involved mixed cancer populations without reporting separate data for BCSs, or if they were non-qualitative studies or gray literature. The review study protocol was registered in the PROSPERO database (CRD42024626033). Results: The literature search identified 490 records, 13 articles from databases, and 3 articles identified via other methods (web and citation searching) that met inclusion criteria. A narrative synthesis approach allowed the emerging five themes: (I) Challenges, (II) Self-motivation and empowerment, (III) The relationships as a facilitator, (IV) Barriers to change, and (V) Proactive support strategies. Conclusions: Addressing internal and external factors that influence health behaviors is essential to improve adherence, reduce recurrence risk, and enhance quality of life. Tailored interventions, social support, and healthcare engagement are crucial in this effort. Impact: Our meta-synthesis highlighted significant challenges as well as valuable resources for health promotion among BCSs, suggesting practical and tailored approaches to improving the adoption of healthy behaviors, supported by relationships and targeted support strategies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Global Health)
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40 pages, 3475 KiB  
Article
The Impact of Extracurricular Activities on Pre-Service Teacher Professional Development: A Structural Equation Modeling Study
by Funda Uysal
J. Intell. 2025, 13(7), 87; https://doi.org/10.3390/jintelligence13070087 - 17 Jul 2025
Viewed by 42
Abstract
This study investigates the development of cognitive, emotional, and social skills in pre-service teachers through extracurricular activities, addressing 21st century challenges in preparing educators for diverse learning environments. It was hypothesized that extracurricular activities would positively influence cognitive skills (self-efficacy, self-regulation), emotional dimensions [...] Read more.
This study investigates the development of cognitive, emotional, and social skills in pre-service teachers through extracurricular activities, addressing 21st century challenges in preparing educators for diverse learning environments. It was hypothesized that extracurricular activities would positively influence cognitive skills (self-efficacy, self-regulation), emotional dimensions (professional interest), social competencies (teacher–student relationships), and academic achievement. This study employed predictive correlational methodology based on an integrated theoretical framework combining Social Cognitive Theory, Self-Determination Theory, Self-Regulation Theory, and Interpersonal Relationships Theory within formal–informal learning contexts. A psychometrically robust instrument (“Scale on the Contribution of Extracurricular Activities to Professional Development”) was developed and validated through exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses, yielding a five-factor structure with strong reliability indicators (Cronbach’s α = 0.91–0.93; CR = 0.816–0.912; AVE = 0.521–0.612). Data from 775 pre-service teachers (71.1% female) across multiple disciplines at a Turkish university were analyzed using structural equation modeling (χ2/df = 2.855, RMSEA = 0.049, CFI = 0.93, TLI = 0.92). Results showed that extracurricular participation significantly influenced self-efficacy (β = 0.849), professional interest (β = 0.418), self-regulation (β = 0.191), teacher–student relationships (β = 0.137), and academic achievement (β = 0.167). Notably, an unexpected negative relationship emerged between self-efficacy and academic achievement (β = −0.152). The model demonstrated strong explanatory power for self-efficacy (R2 = 72.8%), professional interest (R2 = 78.7%), self-regulation (R2 = 77.2%), and teacher–student relationships (R2 = 63.1%) while explaining only 1.8% of academic achievement variance. This pattern reveals distinct developmental pathways for professional versus academic competencies, leading to a comprehensive practical implications framework supporting multidimensional assessment approaches in teacher education. These findings emphasize the strategic importance of extracurricular activities in teacher education programs and highlight the need for holistic approaches beyond traditional academic metrics, contributing to Sustainable Development Goal 4 by providing empirical evidence for integrating experiential learning opportunities that serve both academic researchers and educational practitioners seeking evidence-based approaches to teacher preparation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cognitive, Emotional, and Social Skills in Students)
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27 pages, 2729 KiB  
Review
Polymer Composite-Based Triboelectric Nanogenerators: Recent Progress, Design Principles, and Future Perspectives
by Geon-Ju Choi, Sang-Hyun Sohn, Se-Jin Kim and Il-Kyu Park
Polymers 2025, 17(14), 1962; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym17141962 - 17 Jul 2025
Viewed by 130
Abstract
The escalating consumption of fossil fuels and the rapid development of portable electronics have increased interest in alternative energy solutions that can sustainably self-power wearable devices. Triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs), which convert mechanical energy into electricity through contact electrification and electrostatic induction, have emerged [...] Read more.
The escalating consumption of fossil fuels and the rapid development of portable electronics have increased interest in alternative energy solutions that can sustainably self-power wearable devices. Triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs), which convert mechanical energy into electricity through contact electrification and electrostatic induction, have emerged as a promising technology due to their high voltage output, lightweight design, and simple fabrication. However, the performance of TENGs is often limited by a low surface charge density, inadequate dielectric properties, and poor charge retention of triboelectric materials. To address these challenges, recent research has focused on the use of polymer composites that incorporate various functional fillers. The filler materials play roles in improving dielectric performance and enhancing mechanical durability, thereby boosting triboelectric output even in harsh environments, while also diminishing charge loss. This review comprehensively examines the role of polymer composite design in TENG performance, with particular emphasis on materials categorized by their triboelectric polarity. Tribo-negative polymers, such as PDMS and PVDF, benefit from filler incorporation and phase engineering to enhance surface charge density and charge retention. By contrast, tribo-positive materials like nylon and cellulose have demonstrated notable improvements in mechanical robustness and environmental stability through composite strategies. The interplay between material selection, surface engineering, and filler design is highlighted as a critical path toward developing high-performance, self-powered TENG systems. Finally, this review discusses the current challenges and future opportunities for advancing TENG technology toward practical and scalable applications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Polymer Composites for Nanogenerator Applications)
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29 pages, 452 KiB  
Review
The Use of Retrieval Practice in the Health Professions: A State-of-the-Art Review
by Michael J. Serra, Althea N. Kaminske, Cynthia Nebel and Kristen M. Coppola
Behav. Sci. 2025, 15(7), 974; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15070974 - 17 Jul 2025
Viewed by 54
Abstract
Retrieval practice, or the active recall of information from memory, is a highly effective learning strategy that strengthens memory and comprehension. This effect is robust and strongly backed by research in cognitive psychology. The health professions—including medicine, nursing, and dentistry—have widely embraced retrieval [...] Read more.
Retrieval practice, or the active recall of information from memory, is a highly effective learning strategy that strengthens memory and comprehension. This effect is robust and strongly backed by research in cognitive psychology. The health professions—including medicine, nursing, and dentistry—have widely embraced retrieval practice as a learning and study tool, particularly for course exams and high-stakes licensing exams. This state-of-the-art review examines the historical development, current applications, and future directions for the use of retrieval practice in health professions education. While retrieval-based learning has long been used informally in these fields, its formal recognition as a scientifically supported study method gained momentum in the early 2000s and then saw a surge in both research interest and curricular adoption between 2010 and 2025. This historical review explores the key factors driving this growth, such as its alignment with assessment-driven education and the increasing availability of third-party study resources that rely on retrieval practice as a guiding principle. Despite its proven benefits for learning, however, barriers persist to its adoption by students, including in the health professions. This article discusses strategies for overcoming these challenges and for enhancing retrieval practice integration into health professions curricula. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Educational Applications of Cognitive Psychology)
28 pages, 860 KiB  
Article
Teacher Efficacy Beliefs: A Multilevel Analysis of Teacher- and School-Level Predictors in Mexico
by Fatima Salas-Rodriguez, Sonia Lara and Martín Martínez
Educ. Sci. 2025, 15(7), 913; https://doi.org/10.3390/educsci15070913 - 17 Jul 2025
Viewed by 49
Abstract
All individuals hold beliefs about their ability to successfully perform specific tasks. These beliefs, known as self-efficacy, play a key role in guiding and motivating human behavior. In education, both teachers’ self-efficacy beliefs and the collective efficacy shared by teachers within a school [...] Read more.
All individuals hold beliefs about their ability to successfully perform specific tasks. These beliefs, known as self-efficacy, play a key role in guiding and motivating human behavior. In education, both teachers’ self-efficacy beliefs and the collective efficacy shared by teachers within a school have been linked to improved performance, well-being, and job satisfaction among students and educators. While these constructs have been widely studied in various countries and contexts, little is known about them in Mexico, the country with the largest Spanish-speaking population worldwide. This study is the first to examine the relationship between teacher self-efficacy (TSE), collective efficacy, and other teacher- and school-level variables in Mexico. Given the absence of psychometrically robust instruments to assess collective efficacy among Spanish-speaking teachers, the Collective Teacher Beliefs Scale (CTBS) was first adapted into Spanish, and its psychometric properties were evaluated. Subsequently, multilevel analyses incorporating teacher- and school-level factors revealed that professional development on multicultural communication, classroom autonomy, and collaboration, at the teacher level, and collective efficacy and stakeholder participation, at the school level, were significant predictors of TSE. Finally, implications for future practice and policy are discussed. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Measuring Teaching Quality)
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17 pages, 678 KiB  
Article
Validation of the Alcohol Use Questionnaire (AUQ) in the Italian Context: A Measure for Assessing Alcohol Intake and Binge Drinking
by Eleonora Topino and Alessio Gori
Eur. J. Investig. Health Psychol. Educ. 2025, 15(7), 137; https://doi.org/10.3390/ejihpe15070137 - 17 Jul 2025
Viewed by 121
Abstract
An accurate assessment of alcohol consumption is essential for identifying at-risk individuals and informing prevention and intervention strategies. The present study aimed to validate the Italian version of the Alcohol Use Questionnaire (AUQ), a self-report instrument designed to assess both general alcohol intake [...] Read more.
An accurate assessment of alcohol consumption is essential for identifying at-risk individuals and informing prevention and intervention strategies. The present study aimed to validate the Italian version of the Alcohol Use Questionnaire (AUQ), a self-report instrument designed to assess both general alcohol intake and binge drinking patterns. A sample of 378 Italian participants (54.5% female; Mage = 26.76 years, SD = 8.44) completed the AUQ along with additional measures assessing binge eating and psychological vulnerabilities related to addiction. Confirmatory factor analysis supported a bifactor model reflecting two distinct but related dimensions: general intake and binge drinking. Network analysis highlighted the central role of perceived frequency of intoxication within the structure of alcohol-related behaviors. Both AUQ indices showed good internal consistency and significant associations with external variables, particularly impulsivity, dissociation, and affect dysregulation, supporting construct validity. The Italian AUQ emerges as a valid and reliable tool for assessing alcohol use patterns and may be useful in both research and clinical practice. Full article
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20 pages, 1928 KiB  
Article
Do “Flops” Enhance Authenticity? The Impact of Influencers’ Proactive Disclosures of Failures on Product Recommendations
by Xinge Ye and Chunqing Li
Behav. Sci. 2025, 15(7), 971; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15070971 - 17 Jul 2025
Viewed by 46
Abstract
In reality, some influencers who publicly share failures can gain more attention, which defies common sense. Existing research primarily focuses on the depth of self-disclosure by influencers, which fails to explain the current phenomena. Here, we focus on negative self-disclosure and explore whether [...] Read more.
In reality, some influencers who publicly share failures can gain more attention, which defies common sense. Existing research primarily focuses on the depth of self-disclosure by influencers, which fails to explain the current phenomena. Here, we focus on negative self-disclosure and explore whether an influencer’s proactive disclosure of failures can enhance purchase intentions, along with the underlying mechanisms and boundary conditions of this strategy. We conducted three online experiments on the Credamo platform. Study 1 (N = 94) explored the main and mediating effect, whereas Study 2 (N = 238) and Study 3 (N = 238) investigated the moderating effects of observer and influencer characteristics, respectively. The following conclusions are drawn: (1) Influencers’ proactive disclosures of failures can boost purchase intentions when recommending products; (2) perceived authenticity plays a mediating role in this process; (3) the degree of viewers’ self-discrepancy moderates the mediating effect of perceived authenticity; and (4) influencers’ follower scale moderates the impact on purchase intentions. This study offers practical implications for influencers on how to enhance marketing effectiveness through self-disclosure. Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Interactive Marketing in the Digital Era)
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17 pages, 469 KiB  
Article
Assessment of Food Safety and Practices in Nutrition Services: Case Study of Al-Ahsa Hospitals
by Randah Miqbil Alqurashi and Arwa Ibrahim Al-Humud
Healthcare 2025, 13(14), 1723; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare13141723 - 17 Jul 2025
Viewed by 102
Abstract
Background/Objectives: This study assessed Knowledge and Practices related to Food Safety (KPFS) among nutrition services employees in hospitals across the Al-Ahsa Governorate, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The objective was to evaluate the staff’s understanding of key food safety principles, including foodborne illness prevention, [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: This study assessed Knowledge and Practices related to Food Safety (KPFS) among nutrition services employees in hospitals across the Al-Ahsa Governorate, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The objective was to evaluate the staff’s understanding of key food safety principles, including foodborne illness prevention, food handling, personal hygiene, and food storage and preparation practices. Methods: A descriptive survey method was used, and data were collected using an electronic questionnaire, which was either self-administered by the participants or completed with the assistance of the researcher in cases involving employees who did not speak Arabic or English. This study included 302 staff members involved in the preparation, service, and supervision of food provided to hospital patients. Results: The results indicated a high level of knowledge among nutrition services employees regarding food safety principles, critical temperature control, cross-contamination prevention, and proper hygiene practices. The employees also demonstrated a strong commitment to personal hygiene behaviors, such as handwashing, wearing appropriate clothing, and avoiding unsafe practices. Additionally, a high degree of knowledge and understanding was found regarding food storage procedures and contamination prevention. The study also highlighted a very high level of awareness concerning the cleaning and sterilization of equipment, tools, and food storage surfaces, as well as maintaining a clean and healthy environment. These findings emphasize the importance of continuous training in enhancing food safety knowledge among nutrition services employees. Conclusions: It is recommended that all employees, regardless of education level, experience, or role, participate regularly in food safety training programs to sustain and improve food safety practices within hospital environments. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Nutrition and Public Health)
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12 pages, 907 KiB  
Article
The Impact of Digital Imaging Tools and Artificial Intelligence on Self-Reported Outcomes of Dentists
by Hossam Dawa, Juliana No-Cortes, Miguel Peñarrocha-Diago, Henrique Vicente, Carlos Ribeiro and Arthur Rodriguez Gonzalez Cortes
Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(14), 7943; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15147943 - 16 Jul 2025
Viewed by 206
Abstract
Background: The integration of digital imaging tools in dentistry has transformed clinical workflows, diagnostic accuracy, and patient outcomes. However, less attention has been given to how these tools influence dentists’ self-reported outcomes, including clinical confidence, efficiency, perceived treatment quality, communication, and professional satisfaction. [...] Read more.
Background: The integration of digital imaging tools in dentistry has transformed clinical workflows, diagnostic accuracy, and patient outcomes. However, less attention has been given to how these tools influence dentists’ self-reported outcomes, including clinical confidence, efficiency, perceived treatment quality, communication, and professional satisfaction. This article aimed at assessing AI-powered digital tools in dentistry and their self-reported impact on dental practitioners’ activity and treatment outcomes. Methods: A comprehensive survey was distributed to 126 dental professionals of different genders, ages, years of experience, and types of dental practice to assess their experiences and attitudes towards AI applications in diagnostics and treatment planning, as well as how patients and dentists perceive the benefits and challenges associated with digital dentistry. Results: Digital photographs and CBCT were regarded as essential tools to have in clinical practice, in contrast with intraoral scanners. However, barriers like high initial costs, specialty differences, and lack of formal training may influence the results. Conclusion: These findings suggest that when used appropriately, AI digital tools can significantly elevate the quality of clinical practice and professional fulfillment and underscore the importance of tailored training programs and supportive infrastructures to facilitate the effective integration of digital technologies in dental practice. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advancements and Updates in Digital Dentistry)
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18 pages, 1503 KiB  
Article
Methodology to Determine the Associative Potential of Small-Scale Mining Communities
by Oscar Jaime Restrepo-Baena, Sara Pérez-Zapata, María Margarita Gamarra, Jorge Iván Tobón and Gustavo Viana
Mining 2025, 5(3), 46; https://doi.org/10.3390/mining5030046 - 16 Jul 2025
Viewed by 170
Abstract
This study presents a methodology developed in collaboration with the Colombian National Mining Agency, aimed at enhancing the economic and productive activity of small-scale miners in Colombia through the promotion of associativity. Despite persistent challenges in the formalization and sustainable development of the [...] Read more.
This study presents a methodology developed in collaboration with the Colombian National Mining Agency, aimed at enhancing the economic and productive activity of small-scale miners in Colombia through the promotion of associativity. Despite persistent challenges in the formalization and sustainable development of the artisanal mining sector, fostering associative models offers a pathway towards a more sustainable mining industry, aligned with current national policies. The proposed roadmap, designed to achieve this objective, is divided into three sequential phases. The first, the Baseline Survey, focuses on comprehensively understanding the initial socio-economic and operational conditions of mining communities. This is followed by Participatory Strategic Planning, which involves projecting the long-term role and development of mining associative figures. Finally, the Annual Operational Planning and Execution phase concentrates on the concrete implementation of activities designed to achieve sustainable organizational goals. During the design and initial implementation of this roadmap, we found that continuous support and tailored training programs are essential for mining communities. These programs are critical for fostering the development of collective skills and strengthening community ties within mining organizations. The findings highlight that by strengthening collective capabilities and community ties, mining organizations can enhance their self-management capacities and significantly contribute to the economic development of their regions. This approach addresses key challenges in the sector by promoting a more organized and resilient operational framework. The implementation of a participatory methodology, coupled with specific organizational strengthening programs, coordinated execution, and continuous monitoring, provides a viable route towards a more sustainable and formalized small-scale mining sector in Colombia. This roadmap offers a practical framework for fostering self-managed and economically contributing mining organizations. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Envisioning the Future of Mining, 2nd Edition)
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28 pages, 5813 KiB  
Article
YOLO-SW: A Real-Time Weed Detection Model for Soybean Fields Using Swin Transformer and RT-DETR
by Yizhou Shuai, Jingsha Shi, Yi Li, Shaohao Zhou, Lihua Zhang and Jiong Mu
Agronomy 2025, 15(7), 1712; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15071712 - 16 Jul 2025
Viewed by 175
Abstract
Accurate weed detection in soybean fields is essential for enhancing crop yield and reducing herbicide usage. This study proposes a YOLO-SW model, an improved version of YOLOv8, to address the challenges of detecting weeds that are highly similar to the background in natural [...] Read more.
Accurate weed detection in soybean fields is essential for enhancing crop yield and reducing herbicide usage. This study proposes a YOLO-SW model, an improved version of YOLOv8, to address the challenges of detecting weeds that are highly similar to the background in natural environments. The research stands out for its novel integration of three key advancements: the Swin Transformer backbone, which leverages local window self-attention to achieve linear O(N) computational complexity for efficient global context capture; the CARAFE dynamic upsampling operator, which enhances small target localization through context-aware kernel generation; and the RTDETR encoder, which enables end-to-end detection via IoU-aware query selection, eliminating the need for complex post-processing. Additionally, a dataset of six common soybean weeds was expanded to 12,500 images through simulated fog, rain, and snow augmentation, effectively resolving data imbalance and boosting model robustness. The experimental results highlight both the technical superiority and practical relevance: YOLO-SW achieves 92.3% mAP@50 (3.8% higher than YOLOv8), with recognition accuracy and recall improvements of 4.2% and 3.9% respectively. Critically, on the NVIDIA Jetson AGX Orin platform, it delivers a real-time inference speed of 59 FPS, making it suitable for seamless deployment on intelligent weeding robots. This low-power, high-precision solution not only bridges the gap between deep learning and precision agriculture but also enables targeted herbicide application, directly contributing to sustainable farming practices and environmental protection. Full article
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