bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Third and Boyce–Codd normal form for property graphs
Authors: Skavantzos Philipp , Link Sebastian
Published: February 2025

Normalization minimizes sources of potential data inconsistency and costs of update maintenance incurred by data redundancy. For relational databases, different classes of dependencies cause data redundancy and have resulted in proposals such as Third, Boyce–Codd, Fourth and Fifth Normal Form. Features of more advanced data models make it challenging to extend achievements from the relational model to missing, non-atomic, or uncertain data. We initiate research on the normalization of graph data, starting with a class of functional dependencies tailored to property graphs. We show that this class captures important semantics of applications, constitutes a rich source of data redundancy, its implication problem can be decided in linear time, and facilitates the normalization of property graphs flexibly tailored to their labels and properties that are targeted by applications. We normalize property graphs into Boyce–Codd Normal Form without loss of data and dependencies whenever possible, but guarantee Third Normal Form in general. Experiments on real-world property graphs quantify and qualify various benefits of graph normalization: (1) removing redundant property values as sources of inconsistent data, (2) detecting inconsistency as violation of functional dependencies, (3) reducing overheads for updates by orders of magnitude, and (4) significant speed ups of queries.
Treatment with nintedanib is as effective and safe in patients with other connective tissue diseases (CTDs)-interstitial lung disease (ILD) as in patients with systemic sclerosis-ILD: A multicenter retrospective study
Authors: Mısırcı Salim , Ekin Ali , Yağız Burcu , Coşkun Belkıs Nihan , Başıbüyük Fatma , Birlik Ahmet Merih , Sarı İsmail , Karaca Aylin Dolu , Koca Süleyman Serdar , Yıldırım Çetin Gözde , Okyar Burak , Atilla Nurhan , Dalkılıç Ediz , Pehlivan Yavuz
Published: February 2025

Objective

The aim of this study is to assess the efficacy and safety of nintedanib (NTD) therapy in a real world population of patients with connective tissue diseases related interstitial lung disease (CTDs-ILD).

Methods

Our multicenter retrospective study included patients with a CTD-ILD diagnosis who started NTD treatment due to the development of PPF during follow-up. The results of the percentage predicted forced vital capacity (%pFVC) and percentage predicted diffusion capacity (%pDLCO) of patients before NTD treatment and 6, 12 and 18 months after the start of NTD treatment were evaluated. In addition, the patients were divided into two groups, SSc-ILD and other CTDs-ILD, and compared in terms of the efficacy and safety of the NTD.

Results

In all patients (n = 66), %pFVC and %pDLCO values stabilised after 6, 12 and 18 months compared to baseline values. All patients received at least one immunosuppressive therapy in combination with NTD treatment. The most common side effect after NTD treatment was diarrhoea (n = 20, 30.3%). When we divided the patients into two groups, SSc-ILD (n = 35) and other CTDs-ILDs (n = 31), no significant difference was found between the groups in the change in %pFVC (p values = 0.498, 0.595 and 0.376, respectively) and in the change in %pDLCO (p values = 0.817, 0.185 and 0.399, respectively) at 6, 12 and 18 months follow-up. Again, there was no statistically significant difference between the two groups in terms of adverse events and safety data after NTD treatment (p > 0.05).

Conclusion

In summary, the use of NTD in combination with immunosuppressive therapies was effective and safe in SSc-ILD patients as well as in other CTDs-ILD patients.

Key Points• This multicenter study provides real-world data on the use of nintedanib in patients with connective tissue disease-interstitial lung disease.• Nintedanib treatment is as effective and safe in patients with other connective tissue disease as in patients with systemic sclerosis.
Histological and clinical dose-response analysis of radiofrequency microneedling treatment for skin rejuvenation
Authors: Nguyen Lynhda , Bartholomeusz James , Schneider Stefan W. , Herberger Katharina
Published: February 2025

Radiofrequency microneedling (RFMN) is a commonly used fractional device to treat skin laxity and rhytids. Several studies investigated its histological and clinical effects. However, the role of the applied energy per needle (EPN) and total energy in the outcome remains unclear. The aim of the present study is to analyze the correlation between applied energy and resulting histological and clinical volume effects of RFMN treatment for skin rejuvenation. Ex vivo porcine skin was treated with a RFMN system equipped with insulated needles. Histological measurements of coagulation volumes were correlated with the delivered EPN, ranging from 20 mJ to 100 mJ. For the clinical investigation, a cohort of patients received treatment on the lower face and submental area. Absolute volume changes were calculated using computer-aided three-dimensional analysis. Pearson’s and Spearman’s correlation coefficients r were determined. Histologic analysis revealed a strong positive correlation between EPN and coagulation volume (r = 0.976; p < 0.005). A total of 30 patients, with a mean age of 55.9 ± 8.7 years, were recruited and received 1.7 ± 0.8 sessions (1–3) with a total energy of 1518.2 ± 784.1 J. Three-dimensional imaging revealed a strong logistic correlation with the total energy applied across all sessions (r = 0.676; p < 0.001). Analysis showed a positive association between the number of sessions and volume change. Study findings indicate a very strong and strong correlation between the applied energy and the resulting histological and clinical outcome in RFMN treatment, respectively. The introduction of coagulation volume as a matrix in RFMN treatments enables medical doctors to tailor and adjust treatment plan to the individual patient.
On the diameter of finite Sidon sets
Authors: Carter D. , Hunter Z. , O’Bryant K.
Published: February 2025

We prove that the diameter of a Sidon set (also known as a Babcock sequence, Golomb ruler, or

$$B_2$$

B
2

set) with

$$k$$

k

elements is at least

$$k^2-b k^{3/2}-O(k)$$

k
2

-
b

k

3
/
2

-
O

(
k
)

where

$$b\le 1.96365$$

b
≤
1.96365

, a comparatively large improvement on past results. Equivalently, a Sidon set with diameter

$$n$$

n

has at most

$$n^{1/2}+0.98183n^{1/4}+O(1)$$

n

1
/
2

+
0.98183

n

1
/
4

+
O

(
1
)

elements. The proof is conceptually simple but very computationally intensive, and the proof uses substantial computer assistance. We also provide a proof of

$$b\le 1.99058$$

b
≤
1.99058

that can be verified by hand, which still improves on past results. Finally, we prove that

$$g$$

g

-thin Sidon sets (aka

$$g$$

g

-Golomb rulers) with

$$k$$

k

elements have diameter at least

$$g^{-1} k^2 - (2-\varepsilon)g^{-1}k^{3/2} - O(k)$$

g

-
1

k
2

-

(
2
-
ε
)

g

-
1

k

3
/
2

-
O

(
k
)

, with

$$\varepsilon\ge 0.0062g^{-4}$$

ε
≥
0.0062

g

-
4

.
Strategic Manoeuvring in the Depp-Heard Defamation Trial 2022: Dual Dialectical Goals and a Topical Shift
Authors: Csordás Hédi Virág , Danka István
Published: February 2025

In pragma-dialectics, a study of legal reasoning analyses judicial judgements’ dialectical and rhetorical aspects. Most analytical studies of legal reasoning focus on the role of judges and their decision-making mechanisms. In our study, we focus on the strategic manoeuvring of the opposing parties. Depending on the context, parties may have to justify their decision to litigants, a professional audience, and the public in rhetorically and dialectically different ways. What makes strategic manoeuvring special in judicial trials is that rhetorical aims (winning the debate) and dialectical aims (convincing the jury), in contrast with debates where parties dialectically aim at resolving a dispute by reaching consensus, are not in conflict. We analyse the Depp ctr. Heard trial 2022, focusing on the parties’ dialectical potential in cases when rhetorical aspects play an important role in addition to objective evidence required by the legal framework. Depp’s party started the trial with a strategic movement we shall call as a ‘topical shift’, doubling their starting position, aiming at dual dialectical goals, and hence also beginning a new debate parallel with the apparently only one by introducing a not directly relevant factor into the debate. Although other factors also played a role in Depp’s victory, setting up his position in the confrontation stage this way was decisive for the trial’s outcome: Heard’s party, following a traditional route, joined actively in one of the dual debates only, effectively giving up the extra debate started by Depp. This way, analysing the trial offers wider consequences to how to understand strategic manoeuvring in judicial trials, and in general as well.
The 1001 nights-cohort – paving the way for future research on working hours, night work, circadian disruption, sleep, and health
Authors: Nabe-Nielsen Kirsten , Arup Anne Emily Saunte Fiehn , Sallerup Mette , Harmsen Rikke , Ginty Anna Sofie , Nielsen Marie Tolver , Jensen Anne-Sofie Rosenfeldt , Aagaard Anders , Schlünssen Vivi , Larsen Ann Dyreborg , Garde Anne Helene
Published: February 2025

Night work and circadian disruption are linked to major public health challenges, e.g. cancer, cardiometabolic disease, and accidents. We established the 1001 nights-cohort to explore mechanisms underlying health effects of night work and circadian disruption. 1075 female hospital employees participated from September 2022 to April 2024. The data collection included a questionnaire, a blood sample, anthropometric measures, and sleep actigraphy and sleep diaries across 14 days. In subsamples, light exposure, physical activity, skin temperature, and blood glucose were measured continuously for 7 days, and saliva samples were collected five times across one day. The cohort consists of 2- and 3-shift workers with night work (66%), permanent night workers (7%), permanent evening workers or 2-shift workers without night work (9%), and permanent day workers (18%). Data comprise 4553 day shifts, 997 evening shifts, 1963 night shifts, and 6458 days without work. The poorest health was observed among permanent night workers and the group of shift workers without night work. The 1001 nights-cohort is the most comprehensive data within night work and working hour research due to the combination of questionnaires, biomarkers, technical measurements, and possibilities for linkage to historical and future register-based information about working hours from the Danish Working Hour Database (DAD) and diagnoses. With its repeated measurements within the same individual, the cohort will advance research on physiological and behavioral mechanisms underlying health effects of working hours, night work, and circadian disruption and deliver important scientific input for updating guidelines on healthy scheduling of working hours.
Leveraging Group Decision Aiding with Decision Conferencing: A Systematic Review and a Roadmap for Future Research
Authors: Mascarenhas Edgar José Sanches , de Oliveira Mónica Duarte Correia
Published: February 2025

Framed within facilitated modelling approaches and grounded on multi-criteria decision aiding concepts, Decision Conferencing (DCing) combines group facilitation, preference modelling and decision analytical software to help groups tackle problems characterized by high complexity, uncertainty, and diverse, conflicting perspectives. Despite its widespread application over the past decades, scholarly knowledge on DCing remains under-systematized and poorly explored. This study addresses this gap through a systematic literature review (SLR) and selected bibliometric analyses of DCing literature, and by identifying major challenges and promising research directions to advance DCing practice. The SLR adhered to the PRISMA guidelines, with structured searches applied to Web of Science, Scopus, EBSCO, ScienceDirect and Google Scholar. Seventy-one studies met the pre-defined criteria and were categorised by year, publication source, country, and type of DCing study. Information on analytical methods/frameworks/tools, software used, and evidence of effectiveness was extracted from DCing case studies. Selected bibliometric analyses included co-authorship and keyword co-occurrence network maps and were conducted to gain further insights into the DCing scientific landscape. Results show that DCing has been applied in multiple contexts and that there is diversity in facilitation practices and methods used; few studies have formally evaluated DCing effectiveness or reported its use in virtual settings. Based on the review findings and on literature from adjacent areas, we propose a roadmap for advancing DCing practice, highlighting the need for research on DCing effectiveness, for comparative studies on methods/software, for investigating biases in DCing settings, for developing empirical research on virtual DCing, and for sharing of best facilitation practices.
Whose Knowledge Counts? Unpacking the Uneven Geographies and Politics of Knowledge Co-Production in IPBES
Authors: Wiegleb Viviana , Bruns Antje
Published: February 2025

The Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES) plays a critical role in environmental governance by synthesizing knowledge for policy-makers. In this context, the co-production of knowledge among scientists, indigenous knowledge holders, and societal actors is increasingly important. Despite inclusive goals, the organization often overlooks how uneven geographies and power relations shape collaborative knowledge production. Drawing on qualitative interviews with IPBES experts, administrators, and government representatives, we apply Science and Technology Studies perspectives to analyze the co-production of knowledge among geographically diverse scientists in the IPBES global assessment. Our findings indicate that IPBES’s approach to co-production neglects the political and situated nature of knowledge production, inadvertently reinforcing contemporary colonial power dynamics within the organization. These dynamics influence the abilities of member states to participate in IPBES, perpetuate the North/South divide, and reproduce geographical biases within global academia. This has led to an overrepresentation of Western scientists and enhanced their epistemic authority during the global assessment. We highlight a disconnect between IPBES’s ambitions to transcend the traditional dominance of Western perspectives through inclusive approaches and its actual knowledge-making practices. We discuss the interrelations between knowledge, power, and social orders at the science-policy interface from a geographical perspective and propose six measures for a more reflexive and inclusive approach to knowledge co-production. These recommendations emphasize the importance of recognizing the contextual nature of knowledge, thereby strengthening IPBES’s transformative potential.
The effect of the Spirulina platensis market price, C-phycocyanin selling price and process scale on the techno-economic profitability of a commercial, cosmetic-grade C-phycocyanin process in South Africa
Authors: Williams Aqeel , Payne Eric , Harrison Susan , Fagan-Endres Marijke
Published: February 2025

Across the food, beverages and cosmetics industries, the demand for bio-based pigments has risen, as the health and environmental risks of artificial colourants have become more evident. C-phycocyanin (C-PC), known for its vibrant blue colour and broad health benefits, has successfully found application in the food and beverages industries, but its application in the cosmetics industry has not been as extensively explored. This study investigates the impact of the Spirulina platensis (Spirulina) market price, C-PC price, and process scale on the techno-economic feasibility of producing cosmetic-grade C-PC from Spirulina in South Africa, utilising a sensitivity analysis and Monte Carlo simulations. The study demonstrated that C-PC pricing and production scale significantly impact economic viability, while Spirulina market price has a negligible effect. C-PC price considerably impacts profitability due to its non-linear, direct correlation with revenue. Process scale also significantly affects profitability, influenced by economies of scale during scale-up, and the balance between fixed and variable costs. From the Monte Carlo simulations, it was found that a 100% probability of profitability was achieved at a minimum C-PC selling price of 480 US$ kg-1 at a production scale of 200 kg Spirulina input per batch, even with a Spirulina market price ranging between 6 and 18 US$ kg-1. At a smaller process scale of 123 kg Spirulina input per batch, the minimum C-PC selling price to achieve profitability was found to be 535 US$ kg-1. An equation was constructed which yields the minimum C-PC selling price between 123 kg and 174 kg Spirulina input per batch, wherein the probability of profitability was 97% with respect to the internal rate of return (IRR). This analysis highlights the necessity of optimising C-PC pricing and process scale to maximize returns. By providing a comprehensive economic overview which critically evaluates the uncertainty in pertinent and uncontrollable input variables, the research provides evidence in favour of the commercial viability of producing C-PC on South African soil, thereby supporting its bioeconomy strategy and motivating for the development of the biomaterials value chain.
On ‘There Is’: Logical Investigations into Instantial Sentences
Authors: Ben-Yami Hanoch
Published: February 2025

I distinguish between instantial sentences (There are elephants that swim), particular quantification, and predication of existence in natural language. I explore the logical relation between the first two, while the last one is shown independent of either. I continue to consider the incorporation of the three kinds of sentence in the Quantified Argument Calculus (Quarc). I provide formalisations that preserve the logical relations specified earlier. I also extend the analysis to quantified instantial sentences (There are five elephants that swim) and modal ones. A conclusion of this work is that quantification and instantial sentences provide no guide to ontology.
A size-based contingency approach to family firms’ performance: the role of family power
Authors: Galavotti Ilaria , D’Este Carlotta , Cerrato Daniele
Published: February 2025

This paper aims to analyze the effect played by firm size, as a fundamental dimension of a firm’s architecture, in shaping the relationship between corporate governance and a family firm’s performance. Specifically, we explore whether and how family power, conceptualized through the three governance dimensions of family ownership, family involvement in the board, and family leadership—namely family CEO and CEO duality—affects the firm’s profitability, contingent upon its size. From a theoretical standpoint, we build on agency theory, stewardship theory, and socio-emotional wealth (SEW) theory to develop a unifying contingency framework on the role of the firm's size in determining both the magnitude and direction of the family power effects on performance. Drawing on a dataset of 548 firm-year observations of Italian-listed family firms in the 2014–2021 period, we find evidence that in smaller family firms, where the preservation of the socio-emotional endowment and family legacy is more pronounced, both the benefits and costs associated with agency and stewardship mechanisms are strengthened.
Degrees of Doubt: Overqualification as a Blind Spot at the Base of the Knowledge Economy
Authors: Pantea Maria-Carmen
Published: February 2025

Europe has the most educated generation in its history, yet an alarming number of graduates are overqualified. This paper explores the intersection between education and work from the perspectives of those involved in a sector that is prone to overqualification: the call centres of Romania’s thriving business service sector. Based on over 100 in-depth interviews with young people, human resource personnel, and managerial staff at different levels of seniority, the paper maps subjective views about overqualification. Despite the objective classification of employment in call centres in terms of national occupational codes, most interviewees, regardless of their role, were unlikely to read their employment through the lenses of overqualification. Young people internalised the gap between education and employment and learned not to attach strong employment-related expectations to degrees, especially those in the social sciences and humanities (non-STEM). Managers and HR staff highly regarded company-specific skills and had learned to tap into a group of graduates without clear labour market routes. The paper conceptualises the availability of jobs at the bottom of the ‘knowledge economy’ in connection with employment structures available in the economic semi-periphery and problematises politically the question of overqualification.
Systematic Review of Self-Reported Multidimensional Instruments Used to Measure Quality of Life and Subjective Well-Being of Children and Adolescents
Authors: Winn Kaung Mon , Woode Maame Esi , Aydin Gozde , Chen Gang
Published: February 2025

There is a growing interest in measuring quality of life (QoL) and subjective well-being (SWB) to assess societal progress and well-being. Despite numerous studies exploring the QoL and SWB of adult populations, there has been a limited number of studies focusing on young people. Measuring QoL and SWB of children and adolescents provides valuable insights into shaping public policies aimed at promoting their well-being. This study aims to conduct systematic reviews of self-reported multidimensional measures assessing the QoL and SWB of children and adolescents along with their psychometric properties. The first stage identified the measures of interest, followed by the second stage focused on finding validation studies for the identified measures. Both systematic reviews followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Eight databases were searched to retrieve the studies. During the first stage, a total of 29 measures used to assess the QoL and SWB of children and adolescents were identified. Subsequently, 68 validation studies that met the eligibility criteria were identified during the second stage. This study reports the key characteristics of each instrument and the policy-relevant life domains that are commonly captured by these instruments. Their psychometric properties are discussed. The findings of the study will facilitate policymakers and researchers to make a choice of validated measure(s) for their specific application to improve the well-being of children and adolescents. Besides, they will assist in developing new paediatric QoL or SWB measures when appropriate measures are not available.
Paediatric Renal Tumors: A State-of-the-Art Review
Authors: Salzillo Cecilia , Cazzato Gerardo , Serio Gabriella , Marzullo Andrea
Published: February 2025

Purpose of Review

Pediatric renal tumors comprise a wide range of conditions, both malignant and benign, that affect children and require a multidisciplinary approach for optimal diagnosis and treatment. This review offers an in-depth analysis of the epidemiology, diagnosis, treatment options, outcomes, and survival of major pediatric renal tumors.

Recent Findings

Wilms tumor, or nephroblastoma, is the most common form of renal tumor in children, characterized by growth from primitive renal cells. Standard treatment involves a combination of surgery, chemotherapy and, in some cases, radiation therapy, with the aim of removing the tumor, preventing recurrence and maximizing the chances of long-term recovery. Less common pediatric renal tumors, such as renal clear cell sarcoma, renal cell carcinoma, mesoblastic nephroma, and malignant rhabdoid tumor, require similarly careful and individualized management. Therapeutic strategies, which depend on the characteristics of the tumor, the stage of the disease and the individual response to therapy, may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy and, in some cases, molecular targeted therapies, immunotherapies and genetic and epigenetic therapies.

The management of pediatric kidney tumors requires the involvement of a multidisciplinary team of specialists to ensure accurate evaluation, optimal treatments and long-term follow-up. The aim is to maximize the prospects for recovery and improve the quality of life of patients and their families. Advances in innovative, personalized therapies represent an important opportunity to further improve clinical outcomes in these patients.
Unlocking EFL learners’ insights into ChatGPT use for L2 writing: The impacts of usage frequency and gender variations
Authors: Aksakallı Canan , Daşer Zeynep
Published: February 2025

The emergence of ChatGPT as a powerful chatbot has revolutionized global education in general and language learning in particular since it can offer opportunities for students and teachers. Against this backdrop, this study aimed to explore whether gender and usage frequency affect English learners’ perceptions of ChatGPT use in second language (L2) writing beyond the classroom. In accordance with the Technology Acceptance Model (Davis, 1989), this research was conducted at English major departments at a state university in Türkiye. Employing a fully integrated mixed methods approach and adopting a sequential explanatory design, the present study recruited 874 Turkish undergraduate students. Quantitative data were collected through the Demographic Information Form and the ChatGPT Perception Scale, whereas qualitative data were gathered through semi-structured interviews. Exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses were performed to assess the reliability and validity of the scale. Descriptive and inferential statistics were run for the quantitative data analysis, while qualitative data were analyzed using thematic analysis. The results revealed that many participants used ChatGPT in second language writing, though rarely, and held positive perceptions of the tool. Gender-based variations were detected in terms of usage frequency but not overall perceptions; furthermore, there was a significant positive correlation between usage frequency and perceptions. Based on the integration of both data sources, contradictory, expanded, and confirmed outcomes emerged, and explicit implications were suggested regarding the use of ChatGPT for L2 writing outside the classroom.
Specific molecular imaging of BALB/c model mice with Graves’ ophthalmopathy based on high expression of insulin-like growth factor 1 receptor
Authors: Zhang Zhiting , Ma Ziyu , Wang Xuan , Zhou Yaqian , Wu Ruixin , Shen Yiming , Li Ning , Jia Qiang , Zhang Hong , Li Wei , Zheng Wei
Published: February 2025

Objective

At present, most of the targeted imaging based on insulin-like growth factor 1 receptor (IGF-1R) is for tumor research, and there is no IGF-1R-targeted imaging for Graves’ ophthalmopathy(GO). This study aims to develop a peptide probe, 99mTc-ZIGF1R:4551-GGGC, targeting the IGF-1R, and to achieve specific imaging in Graves’ disease (GD) animal models exhibiting GO.

Methods

99mTc-ZIGF1R:4551-GGGC probe was synthesized using a direct labeling method and its labeling efficiency assessed via instant thin-layer chromatography (ITLC). Western blot analysis confirmed the overexpression of IGF-1R in malignant melanoma B16F10 cells. Subsequent SPECT/CT whole-body imaging of B16F10 tumor-bearing mice evaluated the probe’s targeting accuracy. In addition, a GO model was established using an electroporation immunoassay, followed by serological and histopathological examinations. The GO models then underwent 99mTc-ZIGF1R:4551-GGGC SPECT/CT imaging to assess eye-targeted imaging capabilities.

Results

The peptide probe exhibited a labeling efficiency exceeding 90%. Both GD and GO models were effectively created via electroporation immunoassay. Imaging results indicated significant accumulation and retention of the peptide probes in the tumors of B16F10 tumor-bearing mice. In the GO models, probe uptake was predominantly observed in retrobulbar tissues, contrasting with primary accumulation in the lungs and gastrointestinal tract in normal mice, where only minimal tracer was observed in retrobulbar tissues. Notably, GO mice demonstrated higher probe uptake and prolonged retention.

Conclusion

This study successfully established GD and GO models, reducing the duration of the immune cycle. Moreover, a peptide probe targeting IGF-1R was synthesized, enabling specific imaging of retrobulbar tissues in GO models.
A pilot study of generative AI video for patient communication in radiology and nuclear medicine
Authors: Badawy Mohamed K. , Kharmwan Kitiwat , Carrion Daniel
Published: February 2025

Purpose

Effective communication for radiation imaging procedures is critical, especially for patients with literacy or language barriers. Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) provides a new approach for creating personalised, multilingual patient education materials. This pilot study evaluates the effectiveness of GenAI, specifically using HeyGen, in creating personalised patient information videos in the Thai language.

Methods

We created an avatar of a medical physicist using HeyGen. Two English health information scripts on nuclear medicine and radiology were translated into Thai using HeyGen’s translation tool, and videos were created with the avatar delivering the content in Thai. Thirteen native Thai-speaking medical physicists and postgraduate students evaluated the videos using a 5-point Likert scale, focusing on translation accuracy, naturalness of delivery, and usefulness as a patient education tool. The Bilingual Evaluation Understudy scoring system was used to assess translation quality objectively.

Results

Both videos received high median scores for translation accuracy (median of 4.0). The BLEU scores were 0.56 and 0.66, indicating good translation quality. Participants reported minor issues with formal language and unnatural phrasing but found the videos understandable and valuable overall. Feedback suggested improving the naturalness of the avatar’s delivery to increase relatability.

Conclusions

Our pilot study shows that GenAI can effectively create and translate personalised patient information videos into Thai, helping to bridge communication gaps in radiation-related procedures. While minor issues remain, the findings indicate that tools like HeyGen could significantly improve patient communication, particularly for those who face language barriers.
Sulfatase modifying factor 2 as a predictive biomarker for urothelial carcinoma
Authors: Kuo Wei-Ting , Lee Yi-Chen , Liao Jia-Bin , Tseng Ching-Jiunn , Yang Yi-Fang
Published: February 2025

Sulfatases mediate the sulfation level of cell-surface heparan sulfates to regulate signal transduction, thereby promoting cancer progression. Sulfatase activation requires a sulfatase modifying factor (SUMF) for the modification of its catalytic domain. The role of the SUMF family in urothelial carcinoma (UC) has not been adequately evaluated. In this study, we used an online database and immunohistochemistry to assess genetic changes and the mRNA and protein expression of SUMFs and related candidate targets in UC. We found that SUMF1 and SUMF2 were amplified in UC tissues. High SUMF2 mRNA levels were associated with poor overall survival (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS) in bladder UC (BLCA) from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) dataset. High SUMF2 protein levels were associated with grade (P < 0.001), T status (P = 0.01), and stage (P = 0.006) in patients with BLCA. We also examined SUMF2 expression levels in upper tract UC (UTUC). SUMF2 expression was associated with stage (P = 0.046), poor OS (P = 0.0022), and DFS (P = 0.019) in patients with UTUC. Knockdown of SUMF2 significantly reduced the migration and invasion abilities of 5637 cells. Furthermore, SUMF2 mRNA levels negatively correlated with FBXW7 mRNA levels in BLCA. The SUMF2
high/FBXW7
low expression profile predicted the worst survival in BLCA. Taken together, SUMF2 expression is linked to unfavorable clinical outcomes in patients with UC and may serve as a useful prognostic biomarker for UC staging.
Artificial Neural Networks as Digital Twins for Whispering Gallery Mode Optical Sensors in Robotics Applications
Authors: Ali Amir R. , Ramadan Mohamed W. A.
Published: February 2025

This paper investigates the use of artificial neural networks (ANNs) as a viable digital twin or alternative to the typical whispering gallery mode (WGM) optical sensors in engineering systems, especially in dynamic environments like robotics. Because of its fragility and limited endurance, the WGM sensor which is based on micro-optical resonators is inappropriate in these kinds of situations. In order to address these issues, the paper suggests an ANN that is specifically designed for the system and makes use of the WGM sensor’s high-quality factor (Q-factor). By extending the applicability and endurance to dynamic contexts and reducing fragility problems, the ANN seeks to give high-resolution measurement. In order to minimize post-processing requirements and maintain system robustness, the study goal is for the ANN to function as a representative predictor of the WGM sensor output. The GUCnoid 1.0 humanoid robot is used in the paper as an example to show how the WGM optical sensors may improve humanoid robot performance for a variety of applications. The results of the experiments demonstrate that the sensitivity, precision, and resolution of ANN outputs and actual WGM shifts are equivalent. As a consequence, current obstacles to the widespread use of high-precision sensing in the robotics industry are removed, and the potential of ANNs as virtual substitutes or the digital twin for genuine WGM sensors in robotics systems is validated. So, this paper can be very beneficial not only to the sensing technologies that are used in robotics, which are subjected to the dynamic environments, but also to the industrial automation and human-machine interface.
Detection of outliers in dam monitoring time series with autoencoders
Authors: Irazábal Joaquín , Salazar Fernando , Silva-Cancino Nathalia , Vicente David J.
Published: February 2025

Dam monitoring is crucial for behavior analysis and safety assessment. The data recorded by monitoring systems are the basis of behavioral models. Ensuring the quality of these data is vital for making informed decisions and improving prediction accuracy. However, monitoring data often contain errors that need to be corrected before use. As data acquisition systems become increasingly automated, the resulting large databases present challenges that conventional methods cannot effectively address. This work proposes a methodology based on autoencoders for the automatic detection of outliers in dam monitoring data. The model is calibrated with a general procedure, which showed to be effective in all situations considered. The application of this method to data series from deformations, piezometers, joint openings and seepage flow in two different dams demonstrates its ability to detect all strong outliers without false positives. Only a few potential outliers, some of which are hard to classify after an exploratory analysis, were overlooked by the model. While the final decision on record validation should be made by experienced technicians, this approach can effectively screen large databases of measurements, aiding in the efficient identification of outliers.
Accelerating the computation of Shapley effects for datasets with many observations
Authors: Rabitti Giovanni , Tzougas George
Published: February 2025

Shapley effects are enjoying increasing popularity as importance measures. These indices allocate the variance of the quantity of interest among every risk factor, and a risk factor explaining more variance than another one is more important. Recently, Vallarino et al. (ASTIN Bull J IAA, 2023. https://doi.org/10.1017/asb.2023.34) propose a computational strategy for Shapley effects using the idea of cohorts of similar observations. However, this strategy becomes extremely computationally demanding if the dataset contains many observations. In this work we propose a computational shortcut based on design of experiments and clustering techniques to speed up the computational time. Using the well-known French claim frequency dataset, we demonstrate the huge reduction in computational time, without a significant loss of accuracy in the estimation of the Shapley effects.
Pristine graphene oxide treatment of wastewater from a typical sub-tropical mine in Chegutu, Zimbabwe
Authors: Kalitsilo F. R. , Hashemi H. , Mombeshora E. T.
Published: February 2025

Mining activities in sub-tropical regions are one of the major contributors to environmental contamination and therefore require monitoring and mitigation methodologies. The study investigated the composition of the real-world wastewater from mine explosions and explored the potential of graphene oxide as an adsorbent. Heavy metals, namely, Fe (12.10 ppm), Cu (40.70 ppm), Cr (148 ppm) and Pb (0.03 ppm) were present. The optimal pH, adsorbent dose, temperature, and contact time for heavy metal removal were 12.08, 0.5 g, 25 °C and 0.5 h, respectively. The basic conditions were favourable for efficient removal through the adsorption method. Kinetic modelling indicated adsorption via pseudo-second-order kinetics, insinuating the influence of oxygen moieties of graphene oxide. Furthermore, the Langmuir isotherm revealed favourable removal of Fe, Cu, and Cr. The study indicated potential hazards of current mining activities, especially unmonitored illegal mines in sub-tropical regions. These findings highlight the prospects of graphene oxide as a practical and effective adsorbent for water resource recovery facilities. Therefore, the study demonstrated the capability to adopt pristine graphene oxide in a simple protocol using simple setups for wastewater recovery in the sub-tropical regions in a natural matrix.
Hyperammonemic encephalopathy requiring hemodialysis in a child with distal renal tubular acidosis
Authors: Huseynli Behruz , Akkuzu Emine , Büyükkaragöz Bahar , Bakkaloğlu Sevcan A.
Published: February 2025

A 3.5-year-old girl with genetically proven distal renal tubular acidosis presented with lethargy, after numerous episodes of vomiting and poor feeding. Laboratory investigations revealed severe metabolic acidosis, hypokalemia and a serum ammonia level of 515 mmol/L (normal range: 19–50 mmol/L). Despite treatment with sodium bicarbonate, potassium supplementation, sodium benzoate and carglumic acid, her condition required hemodialysis, which resulted in rapid improvement in clinical and metabolic parameters. Hyperammonemia in distal renal tubular acidosis results from impaired ammonium excretion and increased ammoniagenesis due to hypokalemia and chronic metabolic acidosis, particularly during metabolic decompensation. This case had the highest ever reported serum ammonia level in distal renal tubular acidosis with encephalopathic findings, necessitating hemodialysis treatment. Routine monitoring of serum ammonia levels in distal renal tubular acidosis patients during metabolic stress is essential.

Graphical Abstract
Severe kidney dysfunction after assisted reproductive technology: a case series suggesting the need for higher awareness of risks
Authors: Nagy Eman , Shemies Rasha , Taman Mohamed , Sayed-Ahmed Nagy , Piccoli Giorgina Barbara
Published: February 2025

Background

Assisted reproductive technology (ART) has significantly increased the rate of conception and live births in women with fertility problems. Having a kidney disease negatively affects a woman’s reproductive health, making infertility a significant concern, and women with chronic kidney disease (CKD) are increasingly seeking treatment with assisted reproductive technology. The side effects of assisted reproductive technology are not fully known and its impact on kidney function, especially if a woman has undergone repeated treatments, is likewise not known.

Methods

This case series gathers all consecutive patients who were followed by the Mansoura University Hospital’s Obstetric Nephrology Service or were admitted to its Nephrology and Gynecology Department during pregnancy with a diagnosis of acute or chronic kidney function impairment after conceiving with an assisted reproductive technology method, in the period from 2021 to 2024.

Results

Of the approximately 150 pregnancies referred to the Obstetric Nephrology Clinic, 6 were referred for acute or acute-on-chronic kidney function impairment, or nephrotic syndrome after conceiving via assisted reproductive technology. In one patient, CKD was overlooked and later progressed to kidney failure; one had probable CKD, but discontinued follow-up before confirmation; and one had a kidney malformation, diagnosed during pregnancy. All presented with early or very early severe hypertension and proteinuria, before 20 weeks, while preeclampsia and the hypertensive disorders of pregnancy are conventionally defined as developing after 20 weeks of gestation. Three had complete recovery postpartum, one progressed to kidney failure, while two were lost to follow-up.

Conclusion

Severe early-pregnancy kidney impairment after assisted reproductive technology is probably more frequent than previously reported. Assessment of kidney function after assisted reproductive technology should be mandatory, to make it possible for timely specialized kidney care to be given.

Graphical abstract
Capitalizing on a crisis: a computational analysis of all five million British firms during the Covid-19 pandemic
Authors: Muggleton Naomi , Rahal Charles , Reeves Aaron
Published: February 2025

The Covid-19 pandemic brought unprecedented changes to business ownership in the UK which affects a generation of entrepreneurs and their employees. Nonetheless, the impact remains poorly understood. This is because research on capital accumulation has typically lacked high-quality, individualized, population-level data. We overcome these barriers to examine who benefits from economic crises through a computationally orientated lens of firm creation. Leveraging a comprehensive cache of administrative data on every UK firm and all nine million people running them, combined with probabilistic algorithms, we conduct individual-level analyzis to understand who became Covid entrepreneurs. Using these techniques, we explore characteristics of entrepreneurs—such as age, gender, region, business experience, and industry—which potentially predict Covid entrepreneurship. By employing an automated time series model selection procedure to generate counterfactuals, we show that Covid entrepreneurs were typically aged 35–49 (40.4%), men (73.1%), and had previously held roles in existing firms (59.4%). For most industries, growth was disproportionately concentrated around London. It was therefore existing corporate elites who were most able to capitalize on the Covid crisis and not, as some hypothesized, young entrepreneurs who were setting up their first businesses. In this respect, the pandemic will likely impact future wealth inequalities. Our work offers methodological guidance for future policymakers during economic crises and highlights the long-term consequences for capital and wealth inequality.
Warum unterstützt die Bevölkerung ein autoritäres Regime? Neuere politikwissenschaftliche Forschungen über die Popularität Wladimir Putins
Authors: Stykow Petra
Published: February 2025

Viele autoritäre Regime der Gegenwart sichern ihre Macht nicht mit Gewalt, sondern erfreuen sich bei der Mehrheit der Bevölkerung nachweislich hoher Popularität. Dieses Phänomen, dem in der Vergleichenden Autoritarismusforschung erst seit wenigen Jahren größere Aufmerksamkeit geschenkt wird, ist am besten für Russland erforscht. Der Beitrag diskutiert neoinstitutionalistisch, legitimationstheoretisch, sozialpsychologisch und sozialstrukturell argumentierende Antworten auf die Frage nach der Beliebtheit Wladimir Putins und der Regime-Unterstützung durch die Bevölkerung. Abschließend werden einige Herausforderungen skizziert, der sich die einschlägige Forschung seit dem Beginn des vollumfänglichen Krieges gegen die Ukraine ausgesetzt sieht.
Mapping the exposome of mental health: exposome-wide association study of mental health outcomes among UK Biobank participants
Authors: Arias-Magnasco Angelo , Lin Bochao Danae , Pries Lotta-Katrin , Guloksuz Sinan
Published: February 2025

Background

Dissecting the exposome linked to mental health outcomes can help identify potentially modifiable targets to improve mental well-being. However, the multiplicity of exposures and the complexity of mental health phenotypes pose a challenge that requires data-driven approaches.

Methods

Guided by our previous systematic approach, we conducted hypothesis-free exposome-wide analyses to identify factors associated with 7 psychiatric diagnostic domains and 19 symptom dimensions in 157,298 participants from the UK Biobank Mental Health Survey. After quality control, 294 environmental, lifestyle, behavioral, and economic variables were included. An Exposome-Wide Association Study was conducted per outcome in two equally split datasets. Variables associated with each outcome were then tested in a multivariable model.

Results

Across all diagnostic domains and symptom dimensions, the top three exposures were childhood adversities and traumatic events. Cannabis use was associated with common psychiatric disorders (depressive, anxiety, psychotic, and bipolar manic disorders), with ORs ranging from 1.10 to 1.79 in the multivariable models. Additionally, differential associations were identified between specific outcomes—such as neurodevelopmental disorders, eating disorders, and self-harm behaviors—and exposures, including early life experiences (being adopted), lifestyle (time spent using computers), and dietary habits (vegetarian diet).

Conclusions

This comprehensive mapping of the exposome revealed that several factors, particularly in the domains of those previously well-studied were shared across mental health phenotypes, providing further support for transdiagnostic pathoetiology. Our findings also showed that distinct relations might exist. Continued exposome research through multimodal mechanistic studies guided by the transdiagnostic mental health framework is required to better inform public health policies.
Using SARS-CoV-2 nucleoprotein antibodies to detect (re)infection
Authors: Hoeve Christel E. , Neppelenbroek Nienke , Vos Eric R.A. , Huiberts Anne J. , Andeweg Stijn P. , den Hartog Gerco , van Binnendijk Robert , de Melker Hester , van den Hof Susan , Knol Mirjam
Published: February 2025

We assessed the validity of serum total anti-nucleoprotein Immunoglobulin (N-antibodies) to identify SARS-CoV-2 (re)infections by estimating the persistence of N-antibody seropositivity and boosting following infection. From a prospective Dutch cohort study (VASCO), we included adult participants with ≥2 consecutive self-collected serum samples, 4–8 months apart, between May 2021–May 2023. Sample pairs were stratified by N-seropositivity of the first sample and by self-reported infection within the sampling interval. We calculated the proportions of participants with N-seroconversion and fold-increase (1.5, 2, 3, 4) of N-antibody concentration over time since infection and explored determinants. We included 67,632 sample pairs. Pairs with a seronegative first sample (70%) showed 89% N-seroconversion after reported infection and 11% when no infection was reported. In pairs with a seropositive first sample (30%), 82%–65% showed a 1.5- to 4-fold increase with a reported reinfection, and 19%–10% without a reported reinfection, respectively. After one year, 83% remained N-seropositive post-first infection and 93%–61% showed a 1.5-fold to 4-fold increase post-reinfection. Odds for seroconversion/fold increase were higher for symptomatic infections and Omicron infections. In the current era with limited antigen or PCR testing, N-serology can be validly used to detect SARS-CoV-2 (re)infections at least up to a year after infection, supporting the monitoring of COVID-19 burden and vaccine effectiveness.