bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
On the ϵ-optimality of American options
Authors: Zaevski Tsvetelin
Published: February 2025

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the American pricing problem under the assumption that the holder exercises not only when the underlying asset hits the optimal boundary but also when it falls in a properly defined e-optimal set.

Design/methodology/approach

The purpose of this paper is to examine the American pricing problem under the assumption that the holder exercises not only when the underlying asset hits the optimal boundary but also when it falls in a properly defined e-optimal set. The put and call versions are examined separately. We derive closed-form formulas for the perpetual case. A numerical algorithm for approximating the e-optimal strip is constructed when the maturity is finite. We adapt the Crank–Nicolson finite difference approach to derive the option price or, more precisely, the interval at which it varies. Some numerical experiments are provided.

Findings

We derive closed-form formulas for the perpetual options. A numerical algorithm for approximating the e-optimal strip is constructed when the maturity is finite. We adapt the Crank–Nicolson finite difference approach to derive the option price or, more precisely, the interval in which it varies. Some numerical experiments are provided.

Originality/value

We examine the American pricing problem under the assumption that the holder exercises not only when the underlying asset hits the optimal boundary but also when it falls in a properly defined e-optimal set. This is important to take into account the risk preferences of the investors. Closed-form formulas for the perpetual options are derived. A numerical algorithm for approximating the e-optimal strip is constructed when the maturity is finite. We adapt the Crank–Nicolson finite difference approach to derive the price.
Pushing the boundaries of prefabricated shell building design with building information modeling (BIM) and ultra-high performance concrete (UHPC)
Authors: Karamoozian Masood , Zhang Hong
Published: February 2025

Purpose

This study explores the revolutionary potential of merging building information modeling (BIM) and ultra-high performance concrete (UHPC) in prefabricated shell building design, aiming to redefine the architectural landscape.

Design/methodology/approach

The study employs a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative analysis of structural performance data with qualitative case studies of real-world applications. Specific methods include finite element analysis (FEA) for assessing structural integrity and interviews with industry experts to gather insights on practical implementation.

Findings

The integration of BIM and UHPC enables the design of structures that are efficient, sustainable and architecturally innovative. Key findings include improved load-bearing capacity, reduced material usage and enhanced design flexibility.

Research limitations/implications

The study focuses on technical aspects, with limited exploration of economic or regulatory factors. Future research could address these areas to provide a more comprehensive understanding.

Practical implications

The findings offer valuable insights for architects, engineers and construction professionals, demonstrating how BIM and UHPC can enhance the efficiency, sustainability and aesthetic appeal of prefabricated shell building designs.

Social implications

The adoption of BIM and UHPC in prefabricated shell building design promotes the creation of robust and eco-friendly built environments, contributing to societal well-being through enhanced sustainability and reduced carbon footprints.

Originality/value

This study provides a novel perspective on the synergistic use of BIM and UHPC, offering justifications through empirical data and expert testimonials that highlight the unique advantages of this integration in modern construction.
Toward developing a predictive model for interpersonal communication quality in construction projects: an ensemble artificial intelligence-based approach
Authors: Rahimian Ali , Sadeghzadeh Keivan , Mohandes Saeed Reza , Martek Igor , Manu Patrick , Antwi-Afari Maxwell Fordjour , Mirvalad Sajjad , Odeh Ibrahim
Published: February 2025

Purpose

Following the job demands-resources theory, this study investigates the role of female managers in enhancing employee well-being in terms of psychological health via workplace resources.

Design/methodology/approach

To accomplish this objective, we conducted a comprehensive literature review to identify key IPS. Subsequently, a fuzzy-based algorithm was employed to prioritize these skills. Following this, we developed an algorithm based on Extreme Gradient Boosting (XGBoost) to predict the quality of workers’ IC. The efficacy of the XGBoost model was assessed by applying it to three real-life construction projects.

Findings

Upon application of the model to the case studies, we made the following conclusions: (1) “Leadership Style,” “Listening,” “Team Building” and “Clarifying Expectations” emerged as significant skills and (2) the model accurately predicted workers’ IC quality in over 78% of the cases. This algorithm has the potential to preempt interpersonal conflicts, enhancing job-site productivity, team development and human resources management. Furthermore, it can guide construction managers in designing IPS training programs.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the existing knowledge by addressing the crucial connection between IPS and IC quality in construction projects. Additionally, our novel approach, integrating fuzzy logic and XGBoost, provides a valuable tool for IC prediction. By identifying significant IPS and offering predictive insights, this research facilitates improved communication and collaboration in the construction industry, ultimately enhancing project outcomes.
Unlocking employability: the power of autonomy, competence and relatedness in work-based learning engagement and motivation
Authors: Parenrengi Syafiuddin , Jamaluddin  , Aisyah St. , Mahande Ridwan Daud , Setialaksana Wirawan
Published: February 2025

Purpose

This study aims to explore how autonomy, competence and relatedness impact work-based learning (WBL) motivation and engagement, contributing to enhanced employability skills. Additionally, it examines whether there are significant differences in these effects between students from STEM and social humanities.

Design/methodology/approach

This study employed a correlational design with 284 undergraduate students, collecting cross-sectional data through validated surveys on autonomy, competence, relatedness, WBL and employability skills. The analysis utilized structural equation modeling partial least squares (SEM-PLS) and partial least squares-multi-group analysis (PLS-MGA) to explore WBL’s mediating role in the relationship between SDT components and employability skills, with comparisons across different academic faculties.

Findings

The results show that autonomy, competence and relatedness significantly enhance students’ employability skills through WBL. WBL serves as a mediator that strengthens student motivation and engagement, with notable differences in the effects between STEM and social humanities students.

Practical implications

Higher education institutions should integrate SDT principles autonomy, competence and relatedness into WBL programs to enhance employability skills. Moreover, these programs should be tailored to accommodate the distinct needs of students from various academic backgrounds, such as STEM and social humanities.

Originality/value

This study establishes a novel connection between self-determination theory (SDT) and the development of employability skills through WBL. It provides new insights into the mediating role of WBL in the relationship between SDT components and employability, highlighting the differential impacts across academic disciplines, particularly between STEM and social-humanities students.
The value of CEO communication on social media for internal relationship management and employees’ social media engagement
Authors: Lee Yeunjae , Yoon Dalee , Yue Cen April
Published: February 2025

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to explore how CEOs’ interpersonal communication styles on social media can effectively enhance the relationship with employees and increase their engagement on social media platforms.

Design/methodology/approach

An online survey was conducted with 404 full-time employees working in corporations across various industries in the US. Only employees who “follow” their company’s CEO on social media were included in the study.

Findings

CEOs’ use of a conversational tone on social media helps employees perceive them as approachable and interactive leaders, thereby improving the quality of the CEO-employee relationship and increasing employees’ engagement on social media. CEOs’ personal disclosures on social media were found to promote employees’ perceptions of CEO approachability only when paired with a conversational communication style.

Research limitations/implications

Our study offers theoretical implications for communication and media literature by highlighting the potential of CEOs as chief “engagement” officers, capable of leveraging online platforms (i.e. social media) to foster employee interactions and support.

Practical implications

This study provides CEOs and communication practitioners with practical guidelines for using social media for both professional and social purposes as a crucial tool for internal relationship management.

Originality/value

This study is one of the first empirical attempts to examine the value of CEO social media communication as a key tool for building and maintaining quality employee–CEO relationship and engagement.
Impact of joint venture on its partner company’s performance: a systematic literature review
Authors: Elgarresta-Ugartemendia Leire , Martínez Chávez Mariangélica , González-Eguía Nerea
Published: February 2025

Purpose

This paper aims to identify the variables to measure the impact of the joint venture (JV) on the performance of its partner companies, considering all performance dimensions studied in the literature.

Design/methodology/approach

A systematic literature review (SLR) was conducted using Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) protocol guidelines. The study identified 27 articles published between 2000 and 2023 in research areas of business economics, business, management and accounting and economics, econometrics and finance that discuss the effect of JVs on their partners firm performance. The term JV was defined in accordance with the definition of the author Paul Beamish, a renowned author in numerous academic journals, applying in the field of joint venture and performance.

Findings

The results show that the effect of JVs on the performance of their partner companies has been studied in companies around the world, from multiple perspectives and indicators, and mainly through the application of statistical methods such as regression analysis.

Originality/value

The current study contributes significantly to the existing and understudied body of knowledge in the literature on the effects of JV development on its partner firm’s performance.
Urban planning for wildlife connectivity: A multispecies assessment of urban sprawl and SLOSS renaturalization strategies
Authors: Gelmi‐Candusso T. A. , Chin A. T. M. , Ruppert J. L. W. , Fortin M.‐J.
Published: February 2025

Urban areas are under constant pressure to accommodate more people, leading to an increase in built surface, further reducing and fragmenting wildlife habitat areas within and around cities. Nonetheless, wildlife populations may persist by using a network of habitat fragments, such as urban green areas, but only if functionally interconnected. Therefore, a proactive approach considering prospective landscape connectivity changes, following proposed developments, and potential mitigation strategies is needed.

We predicted present‐day and prospective landscape connectivity for six taxa, in the Greater Toronto Area, under landscape changes across three future scenarios which include the conversion of agriculture to developed land with (1) no mitigation strategies, (2) renaturalization of single‐large areas and (3) renaturalization of small and widespread areas. We used Omniscape to identify shared movement corridors across taxa, and Graphab to estimate the importance of each habitat patch for the overall connectivity (IICk), the isolation degree of habitat patches (node degree) and the distribution of stepping‐stone pressure (betweenness centrality). We validated our connectivity assessment through a road mortality risk assessment near the predicted present‐day movement corridors.

Without mitigation strategies, the proposed developments will increase the isolation of currently near‐isolated patches and the importance of nearby patches as stepping‐stones. There will be a shift in the distribution of movement corridors to remnant green areas within newly developed land, and the fragmentation of three key corridors connecting peripheral areas to inner‐city forested areas. Mitigation strategies with small and widespread renaturalized green areas provided the best outcome in terms of connectivity and can compensate habitat loss following new developments.

The validation analysis supported our connectivity modelling assessment and revealed that road mortality risk was elevated near roads intersecting movement corridors. This finding strongly indicates that roads act as barriers to connectivity and should be explicitly addressed in wildlife connectivity strategies, such as natural heritage or greenspace planning.

Synthesis and applications. Notably, smaller but widely distributed natural areas can serve as a practical and effective management strategy for balancing the trade‐offs among economic costs, urban expansion and habitat conservation. To effectively support biodiversity conservation goals, such as the 30 × 30 target, these smaller natural areas should ideally be connected to nearby larger natural areas through natural corridors or mitigation infrastructure.
Ethnic Minority Representation After the 2024 General Election: Does Ethnicity No Longer Matter?
Authors: Sobolewska Maria
Published: February 2025

With a new record of ethnic minority MPs elected in 2024, Westminster is nearly fully representative of voters of ethnic minority origins. This outcome was not entirely dependent on Labour's landslide, with pre‐election analyses showing that diversity of MPs would have improved with all possible election results. The question is: does this parity in descriptive representation mean that race and ethnicity no longer matter for electoral outcomes? Using the example of voters’ evaluations of Rishi Sunak, this article shows that this is not the case. Sunak's ethnicity did matter for a small minority, with a clear ‘ethnicity bonus’ from Indian‐origin voters. He also received more support from ethnocentric voters and less so from racially liberal voters, more in keeping with his politics than his ethnicity. This suggests attitudes to ethnicity matter more than the ethnicity of politicians.
Energy Use, Energy Depletion, and Environmental Degradation: Exploitation of Natural Resources
Authors: Chen Nan , Usman Muhammad
Published: February 2025

The energy demand has led to the depletion of fossil fuels, resulting in environmental degradation and negative impacts on human health. The depletion of natural resources has severe implications for the environment and human life. Energy use, depletion, and environmental degradation are major threats to the world's natural resources. As the global population grows, the demand for energy continues to increase. This increased demand for energy has led to increased energy consumption, resulting in energy depletion and environmental degradation. This article examines the impact of energy use and energy depletion on the natural resources depletion in China from 1973 to 2019, using CO2 emissions and forest rents as moderating variables. To this end, a time‐series analysis is employed to analyze the data from the World Development Indicators. The results suggest that natural resource depletion and energy use increase CO2 emissions, energy depletion, and energy use, while forest rents are negatively correlated with natural resource depletion. These significant results further prove the importance of managing natural resources and energy in China. Protecting and preserving natural resources is essential to reducing energy use and conserving resources. China should introduce policies to protect and preserve natural resources, such as setting up protected areas for wildlife, limiting the exploitation of resources, and encouraging sustainable use.
High BMI is a specific risk factor for drug‐related mortality in patients receiving methadone: A case control study
Authors: Algahtani Thikra , Le Ruez Tom , Strang John , Morgan David , Smith Martin , Copeland Caroline S.
Published: February 2025

Background and Aims

Long‐term treatment of opioid dependence with the opioid agonist therapy (OAT) methadone can lead to significant weight gain. This study investigated whether OAT patients with a body mass index (BMI) deemed overweight (≥25) are at increased risk of mortality.

Methods

A retrospective case–control study was performed with anonymised data collected from living and deceased persons registered as receiving OAT from Derbyshire or Teesside drug and alcohol services in the United Kingdom. Height, weight, age, gender, OAT type and dose, smoking status and postcode of usual address were collected. Cause of death was collected from deceased individuals. Adjusted odds ratios (aOR) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CI) were calculated using regression models.

Results

Data were collected for 1574 living and 233 deceased individuals. Mean BMI of all individuals (25.75 ± 6.56) was above the threshold considered a healthy weight, and was higher in deceased (26.63 ± 7.87) than living individuals (25.61 ± 6.34; P < 0.05). A BMI of 30 corresponded to an average 7.7% increased risk of mortality, increasing to 37.2% for those with a BMI of 35 and 107.3% for those with a BMI of 40. Risk of death also increased by an average of 43.6% for those deemed underweight (BMI 15). People who were older (mean aOR = 1.019; 95% CI = 1.002–1.036), smoked (mean aOR = 2.917; 95% CI = 1.726–4.934) and lived in more deprived areas (mean aOR = 0.891; 95% CI = 0.831–0.956) were more likely to have died, as were those prescribed methadone (vs buprenorphine) (mean aOR = 1.916; 95% CI = 1.138–3.227). There was no significant effect of gender (mean aOR = 0.844; 95% CI = 0.612–1.162) or methadone dose (aOR = 0.995; 95% CI = 0.988–1.001) on incidence of death. Acute drug toxicity was the predominant underlying cause of death for healthy and overweight people (46% of cases in both groups), with cancer (21% of cases) and infection (18% of cases) greater contributors to cause of death in underweight people.

Conclusions

Opioid agonist therapy (OAT) patients with a body mass index outside of the ‘healthy’ range appear to have an increased risk of death compared with OAT patients within the 'healthy' range.
‘Tea and Thread: Our Happiness!’ Creative Methods and ‘Researching‐With’ Women from Migrant and Refugee Backgrounds
Authors: Olivier Jéan‐Louise , Rezaie Hamidah , Najia Najia , Mee Kathleen
Published: February 2025

Creative methods offer caring ways to conduct research with people from migrant and refugee backgrounds. We reflect on the contributions creative methods, migration studies, and feminist care ethics bring to more caring qualitative research. Guided by feminist work on care and ethics, we expand how creative methods can be employed. Drawing on a range of research traditions, we further develop the concept of ‘researching‐with’. We propose researching‐with as a methodological approach that takes seriously relationships and responsibilities in research practices. This approach advocates for conducting research collaboratively and in solidarity with research communities. The paper reflects on researching‐with creative methods in a research collaboration involving women from migrant and refugee backgrounds, staff and volunteers, a PhD student and a supervisor involving a series of creative workshops at Zara's House in Newcastle, Australia. We expand on some of the methodological learnings of researching‐with, including the possibilities and challenges of this methodological approach.
Cell Biology of Cancer Peritoneal Metastasis: Multiclonal Seeding and Peritoneal Tumor Microenvironment
Authors: Yamaguchi Hideki , Miyazaki Makoto
Published: February 2025

Peritoneal metastasis, also known as peritoneal dissemination or carcinomatosis, refers to the spread of cancer to the peritoneum that lines the abdominal and pelvic cavities and covers the abdominal organs. Peritoneal metastasis typically occurs in advanced cancers of abdominal origin, most commonly gastrointestinal and gynecological cancers. Conventional chemotherapy has limited efficacy, and no effective molecular‐targeted therapy is currently available for peritoneal metastasis. As a result, peritoneal metastasis is associated with poor outcomes and significantly reduced quality of life in patients with advanced cancers. This is largely due to a limited understanding of the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying peritoneal metastasis. However, recent studies employing innovative approaches have provided novel insights into the mechanisms of peritoneal metastasis, contributing to the development of novel therapeutic strategies. In this review, we summarize recent findings on the cell biological aspects of peritoneal metastasis and potential therapeutic target molecules. In particular, we emphasize the importance of cancer cell clustering within the abdominal cavity, which drives multiclonal peritoneal seeding. We also focus on the interactions of cancer cells with mesothelial cells and cancer‐associated fibroblasts within the peritoneal tumor microenvironment.
Potential for synergistic conservation through area‐based strategies
Authors: Zhang Li , Fu Yanwen , Li Jiaxin , Yan Lingyan , Kou Xiaojun , Ouyang Zhiyun
Published: February 2025

The ongoing biodiversity crisis has raised concerns about the effectiveness of area‐based conservation (ABC) strategies for achieving positive biodiversity outcomes. In riverine ecosystems, the linear habitat structure of fishes introduces uncertainty into the synergistic conservation potential of ABC. Therefore, to assess the synergistic conservation potential of ABC for multiple groups, we used data from IUCN and RivFishTIME database up to 2020 for fishes, mammals, and birds to assess the reliability of area sampling based on species–area relationships and latitudinal dependence analyses. We built a spatial model of species richness to determine the spatial distribution of species richness and the spatial overlap of species richness within and among the 3 groups under different group combinations. We found a significant power function relationship between area and species richness; R2 values ranged from 0.94 to 0.96. Species richness was unevenly distributed across groups; thus, the potential for synergistic conservation of multiple groups is not promising. Fish were outliers. The spatial overlap for fish–bird combinations (β = −0.001 to 0.02) and fish–mammal combinations (β = 0.10–0.11) were significantly lower than those for mammal–bird combinations (β = 0.20−0.27). This calls for targeted conservation planning for fishes in terrestrial ecosystems rather than considering that protected areas for mammals and birds will also protect fishes. Furthermore, the synergistic conservation potential of multitarget strategies cannot be safely extended to all groups.
Evaluation of a Wellness Programme for Preservice Teachers in Hong Kong: Promoting Educational Excellence Through Resilience to Stress (PEERS)
Authors: Chan A. W.‐Y. , Leigh T.‐N. , Böke B. N. , Wang H. , So C.‐N. , Heath N.
Published: February 2025

This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of a wellness programme for preservice teachers, Promoting Educational Excellence through Resilience to Stress (PEERS). The intervention group participants, who took part in the 4‐week PEERS programme, and the comparison group participants were recruited online. A battery of self‐report scales assessed various psychological constructs, including coping self‐efficacy, resilience, mental health, well‐being, mindfulness and self‐compassion. Data were collected at three time points: before the intervention (T1), immediately after programme completion (T2) and 4 weeks after programme completion (T3). Results suggested that the intervention group participants reported significant improvements in coping self‐efficacy, resilience and the nonjudging facet of mindfulness. High programme satisfaction was also reported, with 96% of the participants rating the overall programme as good or excellent. Therefore, the results demonstrate the effectiveness and positive impact of the PEERS programme on the resilience and coping efficacy of preservice teachers in Hong Kong.
The role of atherosclerosis in HIV‐associated vasculopathy in young South African stroke patients
Authors: Sadiq Eitzaz , Woodiwiss Angela , Tade Grace , Nel Jeremy , Norton Gavin , Modi Girish
Published: February 2025

Background

HIV‐associated vasculopathy is known to cause stroke in people living with HIV (PLWH). The role of atherosclerosis is unclear. We assessed the aetiology of vasculopathy in PLWH and tested the utility of markers of subclinical atherosclerosis to distinguish atherosclerotic (AV) from non‐atherosclerotic vasculopathy (NAV).

Methods

This cross‐sectional study recruited PLWH with stroke at a hospital in Johannesburg, South Africa, from 2014 to 2017. Patients with meningitis were excluded. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) was tested for multi‐viral polymerase chain reaction, including varicella zoster virus (VZV). Once an aetiological category was assigned, carotid intima‐media thickness (cIMT) and aortic pulse wave velocity (PWV) were compared in AV and NAV, and to predetermined thresholds for subclinical atherosclerosis (cIMT≥0.70 mm, PWV≥10.00 m/s).

Results

Some 28/85 PLWH (32.9%) vs. 9/109 (8.3%, p < 0.0001) people‐without‐HIV had vasculopathy on computed tomography angiography. Only four PLWH had AV. Compared with NAV (n = 11), those with AV were older (50.0 ± 4.1 vs. 39.2 ± 9.2 years, p = 0.04) and had more cardiovascular risk factors (median 2.0 [IQR 1.5–2.5] vs. 0.0 [IQR 0.0–1.0], p = 0.02). cIMT in AV was higher than in NAV (1.01 ± 0.07 mm [n = 4] vs. 0.63 ± 0.04 mm [n = 9], p < 0.001). All with AV had cIMT and PWV above the predetermined thresholds, while all except one with NAV were below. We found evidence of VZV in eight PLWH and HIV‐associated vasculitis in six.

Conclusions

Vasculopathy in PLWH in our region appears to be predominantly non‐atherosclerotic. cIMT and PWV were useful adjuncts in distinguishing AV from NAV. Despite excluding meningitis, VZV was implicated in a large proportion, emphasizing the likely underdiagnosis of this treatable infection. We thus recommend CSF VZV testing in all PLWH with stroke.
Past research and future directions in understanding how birds use their sense of smell
Authors: Creece Darcy , Freire Rafael , Massaro Melanie
Published: February 2025

Our understanding of the functional importance of olfaction to birds has improved over the past 60 years, largely as the result of experimental studies testing how birds use their sense of smell in different contexts. As it is impossible to measure directly which odours birds can detect, we rely on measuring behavioural responses to scent cues or manipulations which diminish their olfactory acuity. Here, we review the findings of these studies structured by when and how birds used their sense of smell: during foraging, navigation, social interactions with con‐ or hetero‐specifics, nesting or for predator detection. Most studies investigated how birds use their olfactory sense during foraging (n = 52) and nesting (n = 42), but fewer examined how birds use olfaction during social interactions (n = 38), navigation (n = 20) or predator recognition (n = 21). Knowledge is mainly restricted to certain Orders (e.g. Procellariiformes). Although the diversity of neuroanatomical and molecular structures underlying olfaction suggests that olfactory acuity varies considerably among extant bird species, an understanding of which ecological factors drive selection for olfactory acuity in birds is mostly lacking. How experiences expand a bird's chemosensory knowledge over time and whether birds can learn to recognize odours associated with foraging opportunities or danger from predators is still poorly understood. Finally, there is a lack of knowledge about how long some volatiles remain useful to birds before they have decayed, and which volatiles, or combinations of volatiles, contained within some olfactory cues are being detected by birds. We encourage ornithologists to tackle these broader questions to better understand the functional importance of olfaction to birds.
Safety of Ablation Within the Coronary Venous Sinus in Pediatric Patients
Authors: Baskar Shankar , LaPage Martin J. , Ollberding Nicholas J. , Spar David S. , Dechert Brynn E. , Dionne Audrey , Ochoa Luis , Law Ian , Karpawich Peter P. , Torpoco‐Rivera Diana , Follansbee Christopher W. , Garnreiter Jason , Czosek Richard J.
Published: February 2025

Background

Catheter‐based ablation in the coronary venous sinus (CS) can be associated with inadvertent coronary artery (CA) injury. However, a significant gap remains in the literature with regard to safety of such ablation in pediatrics.

Objectives

The primary aim of this study was to describe the safety of catheter‐based ablation within the CS. Secondary aim was to describe the practice pattern of ablation energy source within the CS among pediatric centers.

Methods

This was a multi‐center, retrospective study over a period of 20 years (1999–2019) involving seven centers. Pediatric patients (≤ 21 years of age) undergoing ablation within the CS were included.

Results

A total of 211 patients were included (median age: 14 [IQR: 10.5, 16.0]). Accessory pathways were the target in almost 90% of the patients with cryoablation in 55%, nonirrigated RF in 40% and irrigated RF in 6%. Only 16% had coronary arteriogram done before RF. There was a single patient who had CA injury, in the form of a transient spasm of the left circumflex CA following RF in the proximal CS. There was transient high‐grade AV block in six patients (2.8%) who either had RF or cryoablation. There was no permanent AV block.

Conclusion

The use coronary arteriogram before RF in the CS is infrequent, although acute CA injury appears to be rare following such ablation. Transient heart block is not uncommon, and the operators need to be vigilant in monitoring AV nodal conduction.
Deep Eutectic Solvent‐Based Cocoa (Theobroma cacao L.) Bean Shell Flavonoid Release: A Comparative Study of Extraction Kinetic Models
Authors: Benítez‐Correa Elaine , Bastías‐Montes José Miguel , Acuña‐Nelson Sergio , Quevedo‐León Roberto
Published: February 2025

Mathematical models are the most cost‐effective way to learn about a system. The objective of this study was to identify the model that best describes data for extraction kinetics of flavonoids released from cocoa (Theobroma cacao L.) bean shells (CBS) with nine choline chloride‐based deep eutectic solvent (ChCl‐DES) aqueous solutions. Conventional solvent extraction with an ethanol aqueous solution was used to compare results. Four phenomenological and two empirical models were compared. Flavonoid concentration in the extracts was measured spectrophotometrically and fitted by nonlinear regression. Model goodness‐of‐fit was evaluated by comparing the adjusted determination coefficient and root mean square error. All the studied models effectively captured the kinetic data by showing a coefficient of determination greater than 0.92. The DES composition influenced the most accurate model. The DES‐based extraction notably enhanced the washing and diffusion stages and improved the extraction process.
Lemon Fiber as a New Source of Fat Replacement in Filling Creams
Authors: Ozmen Duygu , Toker Omer Said , Öztürk Saniye Akyil
Published: February 2025

Developing new sustainable alternatives to fat in food products that maintain textural and rheological properties while offering substantial nutritional value presents a huge challenge in the food industry. Lemon fiber, which is dietary fiber and a by‐product of the citrus industry is recognized to have considerable health advantages, due to containing fiber and bioactive substances while having strong rheological characteristics. Present study is composed of two parts. In the first part, usage possibilities of lemon fiber as a fat replacement and optimization were carried out using response surface methodology where the concentration of fat and fiber varied between 10%–25% and 0.5%–1.5%, respectively. The aw and pH values of the samples showed a decrease with an increase in lemon fiber considerably (p < 0.05). The sample with fiber to fat ratio of 1.5:25 exhibited the greatest hardness and work of shear values, followed by the control sample, which was recorded as 200.4 ± 16.75 g and 178.9 ± 13.10 g s, respectively. Subsequent to this encouraging outcome, 2%, 2.5%, and 3% lemon fiber was used in the sample containing 10% fat. The rheological properties of the samples were markedly enhanced with increased fiber content, while the 3:10 sample (fiber:fat) exhibited no significant change compared to the control sample. The results of the study showed that lemon fiber can be used in filling creams and similar products for fat reduction.
Excess risk of bleeding in patients with venous thromboembolism on direct oral anticoagulants during initial and extended treatment versus population controls
Authors: Glise Sandblad Katarina , Rosengren Annika , Schulman Sam , Roupe Maria , Sandström Tatiana Zverkova , Philipson Jacob , Svennerholm Kristina , Tavoly Mazdak
Published: February 2025

Background

The risk of major bleeding from anticoagulant treatment is influenced by both the treatment and the patient's baseline risk, which is often disregarded.

Objectives

To determine the excess bleeding risk in venous thromboembolism (VTE) cases during initial (0 to 6 months) and extended (6 months to 5 years) treatment compared to matched population controls without VTE or anticoagulant treatment, overall, and stratified by sex and age.

Methods

Cancer‐free patients with VTE treated with direct oral anticoagulants from 2014 to 2020, along with propensity score–matched controls, were identified from nationwide Swedish registers. Excess risk of major bleeding was assessed using the incidence rate difference (IRD) calculated by subtracting the control bleeding rate from the case bleeding rate.

Results

The matched cohort comprised 36,115 VTE cases and 36,115 controls. During initial treatment, 388 VTE cases (1.07%) and 103 controls (0.29%) experienced bleeding, IRD: 2.19 (95% confidence interval 1.89–2.49) per 100 person‐years. Following rematching at 6 months, 139 cases (0.70%) and 214 controls (1.08%) experienced bleeding, IRD: 0.70 (0.52–0.89). During initial treatment, females had a higher excess bleeding risk than males, with male IRD: 1.73 (1.34–2.12) and female IRD: 2.69 (2.23–3.15). Excess bleeding risk was highest in the oldest patient population. In extended treatment, excess bleeding was not dependent on sex—male IRD: 0.60 (0.35–0.85), female IRD: 0.81 (0.54–1.08)—and did not increase with age.

Conclusion

The excess bleeding risk from anticoagulant treatment was high during initial treatment, particularly among females and the elderly, but lower and not influenced by sex or age during extended treatment.
Longevity of terminal abutment teeth retaining maxillary obturator prostheses
Authors: Chandy Tintu , Singh Annu , Mishra Meza Akriti , Riedel Elyn , Huryn Joseph M. , Randazzo Joseph D.
Published: February 2025

Purpose

To evaluate the longevity of terminal abutment teeth retaining maxillary obturator prostheses.

Materials and Methods

This was a retrospective study of patients who underwent maxillectomy followed by delivery of definitive obturator prostheses between 1994 and 2020. Details on patient demographics, primary tumor, and radiation therapy were collected. The tooth closest to the defect was identified as the terminal abutment, and information such as tooth type, condition of tooth at the time of maxillectomy, Aramany classification, and cause of abutment loss were noted from the dental charts. Survival time of the terminal abutment tooth was calculated from the date of maxillectomy to the last dental follow‐up visit or the date of abutment loss. Univariate analyses were performed to test for the association between survival time and each of the four covariates.

Results

In the 26‐year study period, 148 teeth in 130 patients met the inclusion criteria. Ninety‐eight (66.2%) terminal abutment teeth survived, and 50 (33.8%) were lost. Squamous cell carcinoma was the leading tumor diagnosis (51%). Aramany Class II was the most predominant arch configuration (51%). The majority of the terminal abutment teeth were maxillary incisors (43%). The chief cause of terminal abutment loss was bone loss and mobility (46%). The 10‐year survival probability was 65%. Radiation therapy did not statistically contribute to terminal abutment loss. Terminal abutment teeth with dental treatment showed higher failure than those without any prior treatment or dental disease.

Conclusion

Clinicians must be aware of the various factors affecting the survival of terminal abutment teeth which can ultimately affect the success of the maxillary obturator prostheses.
Comfort in Providing Care and Associations With Attitudes Towards Substance Use: A Survey of Mental Health Clinicians at an Urban Hospital in Vancouver, Canada
Authors: Russolillo Angela , Davies Megan , Carter Michelle , Goodyear Trevor , Jenkins Emily
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Stigma is a major driver of harms associated with substance use and can interfere with the provision of high‐quality, effective healthcare for people who use drugs. Our study aimed to explore the relationship between mental health clinicians' comfort in providing substance use care and their attitudes towards substance use.

Methods

In this cross‐sectional study, the Brief Substance Abuse Attitudes Survey was administered among a convenience sample of mental health clinicians [N = 71] working in an acute care setting in Vancouver, Canada. One‐way ANOVA and the Kruskal–Wallis test were used to examine the association between three levels of comfort and five predefined attitude subgroups. STROBE checklist for cross‐sectional studies was used.

Results

Level of comfort was significantly associated with attitudes towards substance use across three subscales: permissiveness, nonstereotyping and treatment optimism. In pairwise comparisons, the neutral group held significantly less permissive attitudes when compared to the comfortable group. However, the neutral group held more stereotypical views and less optimism about treatment outcomes, when compared to the comfortable and uncomfortable groups, respectively.

Discussion and Conclusions

Our findings highlight that mental health clinicians who are undecided or neutral about their comfort in providing substance use care are more likely to have negative views towards people with substance use disorders. Future work should explore, implement and evaluate education and training to reduce substance use disorder‐related stigma among mental health clinicians and other health professionals.
The power of peers: Design‐based research on stimulating peer‐assisted learning for enhancing the clinical‐reasoning learning process in the workplace
Authors: Ruczynski Larissa I. A. , Schouwenberg Bas J. J. W. , Fluit Cornelia R. M. G. , van de Pol Marjolein H. J.
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Peer‐assisted learning (PAL) is widely used in undergraduate medical education, and collaborative learning is gaining momentum. Unfortunately, literature shows that students utilise their peers less during undergraduate clerkships, a phase when PAL is known to be particularly useful to students and their clinical‐reasoning learning process. For this reason, we investigated the following question: How can we design a workplace for undergraduate students that fosters PAL with regard to enhancing their clinical‐reasoning learning practice?

Methods

We used a design‐based research (DBR) methodology, involving iterative development to address a complex educational issue. Between September 2022 and October 2023, stakeholders participated in four work conferences (WCs). The final output consists of design principles for a workplace to encourage PAL for the enhancement of the clinical‐reasoning learning practice for undergraduate students, as well as an evaluated 2‐month pilot intervention, ‘paired consultation’, that aligns with these design principles. This study is conducted in the Netherlands.

Results

A total of 101 individuals participated in this study. In the WCs, design principles were continuously discussed, while an intervention was developed under the guidance of the research group. Discussion topics included reciprocal vulnerability, culture, autonomy, flexibility, ownership, psychological safety, competition and the role of supervisors. Overall, the pilot was considered a success by all involved and small adjustments were made throughout. Students mentioned that observing peers supported their clinical‐reasoning learning process. Supervisors expressed growing enthusiasm for PAL.

Conclusion

To ensure successful interventions based on the design principles, three topics deserve attention: (1) Students must share responsibility for learning with peers, (2) supervisors must contribute to the evolution towards a collaborative learning environment and (3) a community of learners within a community of practice can enhance the collaborative learning practice. Further research should focus on guiding the workplace in this transition towards collaborative learning.
Pixel‐wise anomaly detection on road by encoder–decoder semantic segmentation framework with driving vigilance
Authors: Liu Yipeng , Wu Jianqing , Song Xiuguang
Published: February 2025

Semantic segmentation struggles with detecting undefined road obstacles, critical for autonomous driving in urban environments. This study addresses the need for accurate unknown obstacle detection, inspired by drivers’ instinctual vigilance toward unexpected objects. It explores the impact of unexpected object position patterns on anomaly detection using human fixation scan‐paths and gaze density heat maps. Data augmentation based on these patterns enhances the outlier dataset for anomaly detection networks. The proposed driving vigilance enhancement framework (DVEF) improves classification accuracy with multi‐scale detailed features and a vigilance enhancement model, generating vigilance score maps to prioritize unknown regions. An improved energy model joint loss function expands vigilance scores, enhancing anomaly detection accuracy. Compared with recent methods on Fishyscapes (FS) LostAndFound, FS Static, and average datasets, average precision improvements of 2.16%, 2.22%, and 2.89% are achieved on these datasets, respectively. In addition, the false positive rate at a true positive rate of 95% are decreased to 5.79%, 5.62%, and 17.89%, respectively. It is indicated that the performance of the encoder–decoder semantic segmentation network is improved by DVEF, with enhanced consistency and robustness.
Food web robustness depends on the network type and threshold for extinction
Authors: Ståhl Patrik P. G. , Riikka Puntila-Dodd , Zhang Lai , Nordström Marie C. , Kortsch Susanne
Published: February 2025

Species loss in ecological communities can trigger cascading extinctions, the extent of which likely depends on network type and extinction thresholds. Traditionally, network responses to node removal are analysed using unweighted food webs, ignoring interaction strengths and extinction thresholds. Here, we examine how food web robustness varies with network type (unweighted versus weighted), extinction thresholds, and species removal sequences, and explore how network properties – connectance and relative ascendency both unweighted and weighted – predict robustness. First, our results show that network robustness, measured by the R50 index, can be up to 40% lower in weighted networks compared to unweighted ones. Additionally, incorporating extinction thresholds reveals a consistent reduction in robustness when species deletions proceed from the highest to the lowest species degree or sum of link weights. This suggests that measures of robustness that do not include extinction thresholds overestimate of ecological network robustness. Furthermore, it highlights that species with high energy through‐flow are crucial for maintaining energy pathways and network integrity in weighted food webs, emphasizing their importance in a conservation context. Second, relative ascendency emerged as the strongest predictor of food web robustness, providing the clearest temporal and ecological signals related to changes in energy fluxes. This metric reflects both link distribution (skewness) and pathway architecture (energy flux constraints), underscoring the importance of these network properties in assessing food web stability. Therefore, these properties should be considered in ecosystem management recommendations.
Participatory Budgeting for Social Equity: A Comparative Analysis
Authors: Taylor Cody R. , Afshan Saman , Lawrence Kara L.
Published: February 2025

Embracing participatory budgeting in meaningful ways gives the citizenry an increased voice in allocating local government funds. Using an integrated social equity framework, we compare ten communities in the U.S. that have implemented participatory budgeting. Qualitative interviews of public managers involved in participatory budgeting revealed that, when designed with equity in mind, PB can promote access, fairness, and quality, leading to meaningful outcomes for marginalized groups, such as support for homeownership, increased civic participation, and additional funding for education. Our sample largely favored the practice because of its ability to facilitate inclusion, provide citizens with a greater level of engagement, and the ability for individual and organizational learning. Despite challenges, our findings demonstrate the potential of participatory budgeting to enhance social fairness in local governments. Future research should concentrate on overcoming obstacles and the factors that lead communities to prioritize certain projects over others.