bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of end-to-end continuous spanish lipreading in different data conditions
Authors: Gimeno-Gómez David , Martínez-Hinarejos Carlos-D.
Published: February 2025

Visual speech recognition remains an open research problem where different challenges must be considered by dispensing with the auditory sense, such as visual ambiguities, the inter-personal variability among speakers, and the complex modeling of silence. Nonetheless, recent remarkable results have been achieved in the field thanks to the availability of large-scale databases and the use of powerful attention mechanisms. Besides, multiple languages apart from English are nowadays a focus of interest. This paper presents noticeable advances in automatic continuous lipreading for Spanish. First, an end-to-end system based on the hybrid CTC/Attention architecture is presented. Experiments are conducted on two corpora of disparate nature, reaching state-of-the-art results that significantly improve the best performance obtained to date for both databases. In addition, a thorough ablation study is carried out, where it is studied how the different components that form the architecture influence the quality of speech recognition. Then, a rigorous error analysis is carried out to investigate the different factors that could affect the learning of the automatic system. Finally, a new Spanish lipreading benchmark is consolidated. Code and trained models are available at https://github.com/david-gimeno/evaluating-end2end-spanish-lipreading.
DNA barcoding reveals mislabeling of endangered sharks sold as swordfish in New England fish markets
Authors: Eppley Madeline G. , Coote Thomas
Published: February 2025

Mislabeling of shark and swordfish meat poses a substantial challenge to conservation of rapidly declining pelagic shark populations in the North Atlantic, so routine market assessments are critical. New England’s southern region of Massachusetts, Connecticut, and Rhode Island is a region with historic reliance on fisheries and contemporary cultural demand for locally sourced seafood, including sharks and swordfish. The visual similarity of shark and swordfish meat is considerable, and as such, this study aimed to evaluate mislabeling of shark as swordfish meat collected from markets and grocery stores in New England in 2019. DNA barcoding was used on the mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase I (COI) gene to determine identification of 38 collected samples, which were either labeled as ‘mako shark’, ‘thresher shark’, or ‘swordfish’ in market. Barcoding and phylogenetic analysis revealed four mislabeled samples for a total substitution rate of 10.5%. One substitution, labeled ‘mako’ in the market, was identified as thresher shark. Three further substitutions, labeled as ‘swordfish’ in the market were identified as mako, Alopias spp., and a lamnid shark, all of which are endangered or threatened shark species. As samples were collected just before implementation of major import monitoring programs and a shortfin mako (Isurus oxyrinchus) fishing ban in the United States, this study has established a temporal baseline that can be used to determine if market mislabeling has decreased as a result of these conservation initiatives.
Citation analysis of global research on data literacy
Authors: Nwagwu Williams Ezinwa
Published: February 2025

The analysis of citation patterns in the scholarly landscape of data literacy using data collected from Scopus and analysed using Vosviewer reveals significant findings. Initially, 997 documents were identified, averaging 52 per year, but a criterion of 10 citations per document narrowed down the subset to 205 documents, indicating substantial scholarly attention. Among these, only 81 interconnected documents were found, suggesting their pivotal role in shaping discourse. Notably, Prado’s (2013) work on integrating data literacy into education emerged as highly influential. Key journals and conference proceedings such as the ACM International Conference Proceeding Series and Teachers College Record were identified as influential sources. Co-citation analysis highlighted notable authors like Mandinach, d’Ignazio, and Koltay, underlining their contributions. Seminal works by Mandinach and Gummer on educator preparation underscored the interdisciplinary nature of data literacy. Implications for policy and practice include advocating for integrating data literacy into curricula, designing educator training programs, promoting interdisciplinary collaboration, and supporting open access to literature. However, potential biases and dataset limitations must be acknowledged in interpreting the findings.
Diachronic or Counterfactual? Temporal Well-Being and Changing Attitudes
Authors: Moreno Marina
Published: February 2025

In his paper “Wellbeing and Changing Attitudes Across Time”, Krister Bykvist investigates the challenge that changing attitudes pose for attitude-sensitive theories of well-being in determining temporal wellbeing. He offers both a useful tool to investigate the conceptual space of possible answers, namely an attitudinal matrix, as well as a seemingly plausible constraint on such an answer, which he terms ‘diagonalism’. This paper draws on his matrix to provide an argument against diagonalism and offer an error theory regarding its intuitive force. Using his matrix, I sketch my own view of temporal well-being according to which it is not a single unified concept, but can rather be understood in two different ways (‘better for’ vs. ‘better off’), both of which are interesting in their own right.
Reversing negative nitrogen balances in intensive rice-based cropping with Conservation Agriculture
Authors: Islam Md. Ariful , Bell Richard W. , Johansen Chris , Jahiruddin M. , Haque Md. Enamul , Vance Wendy
Published: February 2025

The extent to which Conservation Agriculture (CA) practices alter nitrogen (N) balance in intensive rice-based cropping systems of the Eastern Indo-Gangetic Plain was examined, focusing on a legume dominated-system (LDS) and a cereal dominated-system (CDS) in north-west Bangladesh. Three crop establishment methods were imposed—strip planting (SP) and bed planting (BP) for non rice crops with non-puddled rice establishment; compared with conventional tillage (CT) for non rice crops along with puddled transplanting of rice. Two levels of crop residue retention were superimposed—high (HR) and low (LR - conventional farm practice) crop residue retention. The CA practices (SP and non-puddled rice with HR) increased total soil N concentrations, and the soil N-stocks at 0–0.075 m over CT and LR in both CDS and LDS sites after 2.5 years. At 0–0.15 m soil depth, total soil N concentrations increased over time under SP and BP, but decreased with CT. In LDS, annual soil N increase (65 kg N ha−1) occurred with SP while negligible N losses were observed under CT at both levels of residue retention at 0–0.15 m soil depth. The N accumulation rate under HR was 24.5 kg N ha−1 higher than LR. The N balance calculation over 2.5 years indicated an estimated soil N gain (8–11%) in SPHR and SPLR but a loss in CT. In CDS, neither treatments accumulated soil N but N losses were greater in CT. The effect of crop establishment methods on soil NH₄-N and NO₃-N at the early growth stage of cool dry season cropping was small and inconsistent. However, SP with HR maintained higher overall crop and system N uptake compared to CT and LR. Thus, CA practices altered the N balance which slowed the decline in soil N-stocks in the cereal-dominated rotation while resulting in a positive N balance in the legume-dominated rotation.
Promoting Self-Determination in Young Adults with Autism: A Multicenter, Mixed Methods Study
Authors: Andrés-Gárriz Clara , Farriols Hernando Núria , Gómez Hinojosa Antonia Maria , Pretel-Luque Teresa , Fàbregues Sergi , Mumbardó-Adam Cristina
Published: February 2025

Young people with autism have support needs related to self-determination that are currently not adequately addressed in Spain. This study aimed to assess the effectiveness, implementation, and acceptability of a program to support self-determination for young adults with autism in Spain. A multicenter, mixed methods randomized controlled trial (RCT) study was conducted (2020–2022). Young adults with autism between 17 and 30 years of age were recruited, and 40 were randomly assigned to the intervention or waiting-list group. Quantitative and qualitative data on outcomes relating to self-determination, program implementation and acceptability were collected at baseline, during, and after the intervention using several tools, including the SDI: SR and focus groups. Joint displays were used to integrate the quantitative and qualitative results for a comprehensive evaluation of the program. The quantitative results revealed no significant differences between the intervention and waiting list groups but indicated positive impacts on agentic actions and overall self-determination as reported by participants and caregivers. The qualitative results expanded the quantitative results by identifying personal and contextual barriers and facilitators of self-determination while offering deeper insights into the quantitative outcomes. Implementation fidelity was high, and the qualitative data provided areas for improvement and identified challenges and best practices. Program acceptability was high, and the group format proved useful. Our study provides the first empirical evidence of an intervention designed to promote self-determination in individuals with autism in Spain, but further research is needed. This trial was retrospectively registered at www.clinicaltrial.org (NCT05938751) on January 1st, 2023.
The behaviour of nickel, copper, zinc, and cadmium in the subarctic Pacific Ocean: East–West differences
Authors: Chan Cheuk-Yin , Zheng Linjie , Sohrin Yoshiki
Published: February 2025

Nickel (Ni), copper (Cu), zinc (Zn), and cadmium (Cd) are trace metals classified as nutrient-type elements in the oceans. This study reports the full-depth distribution of dissolved (d) Ni, Cu, Zn, and Cd during the 2017 GEOTRACES Japan KH-17-3 cruise, aiming to augment the knowledge of chemical oceanography of the nutrient-type elements and highlight the east–west differences in the subarctic Pacific Ocean. The linear relationship of dCd and PO4 reflects a concurrent influence of ocean circulation and biogeochemical cycling. For the other metals, the dM/PO4 ratios reflect preferential uptake by phytoplankton, fluvial inputs, reversible scavenging, and release from the bottom. The east–west differences in the dM/PO4 ratios suggest supplies of Ni and Cu from marginal seas and the North American continent. East–west gradient of the dZn/PO4 ratio shows severer depletion of dZn in the surface water of the eastern subarctic Pacific, which is consistent with previous research. We calculate the enrichment factor (EF) that is the dM/dAl ratio normalised with the M/Al ratio in the crust for dNi, dCu, dZn, and dCd. The EF values are substantially high in the central part of the Subarctic Gyre, implying the presence of anthropogenic atmospheric input via the westerly wind.
Density-Induced Variations of Local Dimension Estimates for Absolutely Continuous Random Variables
Authors: Platzer Paul , Chapron Bertrand
Published: February 2025

For any multi-fractal dynamical system, a precise estimate of the local dimension is essential to infer variations in its number of degrees of freedom. Following extreme value theory, a local dimension may be estimated from the distributions of pairwise distances within the dataset. For absolutely continuous random variables and in the absence of zeros and singularities, the theoretical value of this local dimension is constant and equals the phase-space dimension. However, due to uneven sampling across the dataset, practical estimations of the local dimension may diverge from this theoretical value, depending on both the phase-space dimension and the position at which the dimension is estimated. To explore such variations of the estimated local dimension of absolutely continuous random variables, approximate analytical expressions are derived and further assessed in numerical experiments. These variations are expressed as a function of 1. the random variables’ probability density function, 2. the threshold used to compute the local dimension, and 3. the phase-space dimension. Largest deviations are anticipated when the probability density function has a low absolute value, and a high absolute value of its Laplacian. Numerical simulations of random variables of dimension 1 to 30 allow to assess the validity of the approximate analytical expressions. These effects may become important for systems of moderately-high dimension and in case of limited-size datasets. We suggest to take into account this source of local variation of dimension estimates in future studies of empirical data. Implications for weather regimes are discussed.
Benchmarking of the PHITS simulation code using neutron activation experiments for reliable calculations of neutron fields
Authors: Shabani Doruntin , Rangaiah Srinivasa T. , Langer Christoph , Mauerhofer Eric , Zakalek Paul , Gutberlet Thomas
Published: February 2025

In this study, experimental results from neutron activation of gold and indium foils are compared with the activation simulated using PHITS and PHITS-DCHAIN codes. The aim was to evaluate the accuracy of these simulation methods for predicting the amount of induced activity in such foils. Neutron activation experiments were carried out using a 10 Ci AmBe source at the University of Applied Sciences Aachen in Germany. Activities were determined using a modern BEGe detector by measuring the γ-ray spectra of decaying 198Au and 116mIn. In the simulation, two methods were used to extract the activities: a direct flux analysis and a more detailed DCHAIN calculation. Generally, very good agreement of the activities within 15% is observed, which shows the reliable nuclear physics input and neutron transport calculation of the PHITS code for these kinds of experiments.
Impact of mechanical properties of aneurysms and intraluminal thrombus on abdominal aortic aneurysm aoutcomes
Authors: Caruso Gaia , Martínez Miguel Ángel , Peña Estefanía
Published: February 2025

This study aims to examine how changes in material coefficients impact the mechanical responses of AAA models, including both cases with and without the ILT. The main focus will be on identifying the material coefficients that most significantly influence strain and stress fields, using the GHO model, which is widely regarded as the most popular hyperelastic model. The findings of this study reveal that compliant AAAs are particularly sensitive to fiber dispersion, which exerts a substantial influence on stress distribution and deformation patterns. In stiffer AAAs, however, matrix stiffness emerges as the key player. Notably, the study of interactions among all GHO parameters demonstrate that even minor adjustments can dramatically shift model behavior, emphasizing the importance of finely fitted parameter combinations for accurate predictions. The impact of ILT material properties on AAA mechanical behavior was found to be relatively minor, indicating that precise fitting of ILT coefficients may not be essential. However, the inclusion of the ILT itself was important, as it played a crucial role in shielding the AAA wall by reducing stress. This study offers valuable insights into the material modeling of AAA tissue and the significance of the ILT. The findings can be instrumental in optimizing patient-specific computational models, enhancing the accuracy of AAA wall material behavior, while also incorporating the ILT’s effects.
Inversion of impact-echo data using a shape optimization approach
Authors: Commandeur Colin , Stolk Christiaan C. , Sprik Rudolf , Louwerse Gerard
Published: February 2025

For the thickness measurement of refractory structures, the impact-echo measurement is one of the methods being used. This method is especially suited for the cases where high frequencies cannot be used due to the high damping and scattering in the materials. The data gathered with this method are often processed using a one-dimensional approach, which works well for simple layered structures. However, when the geometry is more complex, the thickness of the material needs to be estimated, as well as the shape of the interface. In this paper a method for inversion of impact-echo data in a two-dimensional setting is presented using multiple transducers. The algorithm was implemented using Fenics finite element software. The software is used to solve the elastic wave equation and the dolfin-adjoint toolbox is used for efficient computation of the shape gradient. In the paper, the algorithm is tested on two common erosion profiles. These examples show that, under reasonable initial assumptions, the solution converges close to the shape of the true interface. In practice, it is convenient to use a low number of sensors; for the two cases, a numerical experiment is carried out to determine the minimum number of sources required to arrive at a good result. The robustness of the algorithm is tested by adding roughness to the interface and by superimposing noise on the reference signals. The last experiment investigates how the solutions change as the number of samples increases.
Pharmacy-led interventions to reverse and prevent prescribing cascades in primary care: a proof-of-concept study
Authors: Mohammad Atiya K. , Hugtenburg Jacqueline G. , Ceylan Yildiz , Kooij Marcel , Knies Saskia , van den Bemt Patricia M. L. A. , Denig Petra , Karapinar-Carkıt Fatma
Published: February 2025

Background

Prescribing cascades occur in clinical practice when a medication causes an adverse drug reaction (ADR), which is addressed by prescribing additional medication.

Aim

The aim was to provide proof-of-concept for pharmacy-led interventions to reverse or prevent prescribing cascades.

Method

Two community pharmacies each tested two approaches. To reverse prescribing cascades, ten cascades were selected from literature. Dispensing records were screened to identify patients with these cascades. To prevent prescribing cascades, patients who started medications associated with five of these cascades were telephoned one month after their first dispensing to discuss ADRs. Pharmacists assessed the need to intervene together with prescribers. Primary outcome was the proportion of patients with a treatment change initiated. Secondary outcomes were time investment, potential cost-savings, and pharmacists’ experiences.

Results

To reverse prescribing cascades, 24 patients were included. For eight the prescriber was consulted, resulting in the reversal of three cascades. Forty-four patients were included to prevent prescribing cascades. Six of them experienced an ADR that could lead to a prescribing cascade. For two patients interventions were conducted to prevent this. The estimated time investment to identify patients possibly in need of intervention was 4.5 h for the reversing approach and 4.8 h for the preventing approach, while follow-up actions required 1.8 h and 0.5 h, respectively. Both approaches could be cost-saving. Pharmacists considered both approaches relevant but identified a knowledge gap on how to intervene for some cascades.

Conclusion

Pharmacy-led interventions may reverse and prevent prescribing cascades, but more efficient screening methods and tools are needed before further implementation.
Defining polypharmacy in older adults: a cross-sectional comparison of prevalence estimates calculated according to active ingredient and unique product counts
Authors: Lee Georgie B. , Hosking Sarah M. , Etherton-Beer Christopher , Pasco Julie A. , Williams Lana J. , Holloway-Kew Kara L. , Page Amy T.
Published: February 2025

Background

Polypharmacy is common in older adults and may be associated with poor outcomes. However, methods used to define polypharmacy are rarely reported precisely, with potential implications for polypharmacy exposure estimates.

Aim

The aim was to investigate prevalence estimates according to different methods in an Australian population-based sample of older adults.

Method

This cross-sectional study included 735 adults aged ≥ 60 years participating in the Geelong Osteoporosis Study. Current prescription, non-prescription and complementary and alternative medicines were self-reported. Counting methods included the number of active ingredients and unique products. Polypharmacy and hyperpolypharmacy were determined using ≥ 5 and ≥ 10 medicine cut points respectively. Prevalence was estimated using ingredient- and product-level counts according to criteria defined by medicine schedule and type (i.e. scheduled prescription, non-prescription). Non-parametric testing measured differences between counting methods, univariate logistic regressions investigated disagreement between total counts and polypharmacy exposure.

Results

Polypharmacy prevalence (scheduled prescription medicines) was 30.3% and 35.9% (products versus ingredients). Prevalence increased to 52.8% and 57.3% when counts considered any medicine. Adults aged ≥ 80 years were most likely to use prescription combination products (OR 2.22 [95% CI 1.46, 3.35] p < 0.01), however, age was not associated with disagreement between product and ingredient polypharmacy exposure. Being male was associated with both prescription combination product use (OR 1.79 [95% CI 1.29, 2.47] p < 0.001) and disagreement between polypharmacy exposures (OR 2.29 [95% CI 1.15, 4.47] p=0.02).

Conclusion

Polypharmacy prevalence estimates varied substantially depending on the method applied. These data indicate the need for standardised reporting specific to medicines data and polypharmacy measures.
A Note on Nonlinear Critical Problems Involving the Grushin Subelliptic Operator: Bifurcation and Multiplicity Results
Authors: Molica Bisci Giovanni , Malanchini Paolo , Secchi Simone
Published: February 2025

We consider the boundary value problem

$$\begin{aligned} {\left\{ \begin{array}{ll} -\varDelta _\gamma u = \lambda u + \left| u \right| ^{2^*_\gamma -2}u ~& \text {in}~ \Omega \\ u = 0 ~& \text {on}~ \partial \Omega , \end{array}\right. } \end{aligned}$$

-

Δ
γ

u
=
λ
u
+

u

2
γ
∗

-
2

u

in

Ω

u
=
0

on

∂
Ω
,

where

$$\lambda >0$$

λ
>
0

,

$$\Omega $$

Ω

is an open bounded domain in

$$\mathbb {R}^N$$

R

N

,

$$N \ge 3$$

N
≥
3

, with

$$0\in \overline{\Omega }$$

0
∈

Ω
¯

, while

$$\varDelta _\gamma $$

Δ
γ

is the Grushin operator

$$\begin{aligned} \varDelta _ \gamma u(z) = \varDelta _x u(z) + | x |^{2\gamma } \varDelta _y u (z) \quad (\gamma \ge 0). \end{aligned}$$

Δ
γ

u

(
z
)

=

Δ
x

u

(
z
)

+

|
x
|

2
γ

Δ
y

u

(
z
)

(
γ
≥
0
)

.

We prove a multiplicity and bifurcation result for this problem, extending the results of Cerami, Fortunato and Struwe in [7] and of Fiscella, Molica Bisci and Servadei in [10].
Patients’ experiences with the routine use of a clinical feedback system prior to consultations in ostomy care: a qualitative study
Authors: Juvik Lill Anette , Andersen John Roger , Indrebø Kisten Lerum , Sandvoll Anne Marie
Published: February 2025

Purpose

Ostomy surgery involves significant bodily changes, and the adjustment process encompasses a broad spectrum of physical and psychosocial challenges. A clinical feedback system (CFS) has been developed to collect patient-reported outcomes as part of routine outpatient follow-up, reviewed by stoma care nurses, to better address patients’ needs during their adjustment process. The intervention appears promising; however, empirical evidence supporting its benefits remains limited. Thus, we explored patients’ experiences with the routine use of the CFS prior to consultations in ostomy care.

Methods

A qualitative design involved 27 semi-structured individual interviews with patients using CFS as part of routine care. The data were analysed using Braun and Clarke’s reflexive approach to thematic analysis.

Results

The overarching theme CFS—a tool with potential and multiple mechanisms of action was developed with three themes: (1) Grasping the purpose can be challenging, (2) Preparatory learning—triggering reflection and self-awareness, and (3) Means of communication and potential for being understood. Engaging with the CFS had personal utility value with many dimensions, varying in strength and significance for each patient. Even though not everyone grasped the purpose of its use, it was part of a preparatory learning process for consultations and the adjustment process itself. It triggered reflection and self-awareness and served as a means of communication with potential for follow-up.

Conclusion

Although the CFS appears promising, future research should focus on identifying the most effective methods for educating patients on its use.
Enhancing disciplinary literacy through integrated writing and process instruction: an intervention study
Authors: Holdinga Lieke , van Drie Jannet , Rijlaarsdam Gert
Published: February 2025

Writing activities can be powerful tools for learning, linking literacy with content knowledge to build students’ disciplinary literacy. However, students are relatively unexperienced writers who benefit from teacher support to balance literacy with content goals. This study evaluated a brief, flexible writing intervention designed to help students in grades 10–12 improve their disciplinary writing in the specific domain of history. Conducted with 14 classes across 10 schools, the study used a pretest–posttest design to assess effectiveness. Three conditions were established: a writing task with process instruction condition (WT + S; seven classes, 119 students), a writing task-only condition (WT; three classes, 63 students), and a control condition (four classes, 86 students). Teachers in WT and WT + S conditions were instructed to design and implement literacy tasks, with the WT + S condition receiving additional writing process instruction tailored to individual writing approaches. Effects on students’ disciplinary writing performance were assessed using a transfer literacy task about a new topic. After writing, students were asked to indicate their level of epistemic experience during writing. Historical content knowledge gained during the intervention period was measured using a free recall task. Findings showed that writing practice with process instruction (WT + S) significantly enhanced disciplinary writing (effect size = .63) and epistemic experience (effect size = .31). Content knowledge improved across all groups, regardless of condition. This study underscores the potential of targeted writing process instruction as a valuable asset in content classrooms for developing students’ disciplinary writing skills.
When New Fathers Take More Leave, Does Maternal Gatekeeping Decline?
Authors: Donithen Reed , Schoppe-Sullivan Sarah , Berrigan Miranda , Dush Claire Kamp
Published: February 2025

The current study examined associations between the length of paternity leave taken by new fathers and maternal gatekeeping behavior and attitudes (i.e., mothers’ encouragement or discouragement of fathers’ involvement in parenting). Survey data on fathers’ and mothers’ leave length, maternal gatekeeping behavior and attitudes, and psychological and demographic covariates were drawn from a longitudinal study of the transition to parenthood among a sample of 130 dual-earner, different-sex couples in the U.S. Path analysis indicated that longer paternity leave time was associated with lower maternal gateclosing behaviors and attitudes. Paternity leave length was not related to maternal gateopening behavior. Mothers’ leave time was not related to maternal gatekeeping. The use of paternity leave may benefit the coparenting relationship between mothers and fathers by reducing maternal gateclosing behaviors and attitudes, making space for fathers to be more independent and involved parents and for mothers and fathers to adopt more egalitarian parental roles.
Predictors of futile recanalization after intravenous thrombolysis in stroke patients transferred for endovascular treatment
Authors: D’Anna Lucio , Foschi Matteo , Dixon Luke , Bax Francesco , Levee Viva , Fayez Feras , Knight Lucinda , Cella Arianna , Mare’ Alessandro , Kuris Fedra , Pez Sara , Sponza Massimo , Lobotesis Kyriakos , Nguyen Thanh , Sacco Simona , Gigli Gian Luigi , Valente Mariarosaria , Banerjee Soma , Merlino Giovanni ,   the Study Investigators*
Published: February 2025

Some patients with large vessel occlusion (LVO) achieve insufficient clinical improvement (futile recanalization, FR) after intravenous thrombolysis (IVT) during inter-hospital transfer for thrombectomy, while others show good outcomes (effective recanalization, ER). This study assessed FR and ER rates among patients treated with IVT at non-thrombectomy primary stroke centers (PSCs) and aimed to identify predictors of FR. We analyzed data from two PSC registries (2016–2022). Inclusion criteria: IVT treatment, anterior circulation LVO, NIHSS ≥ 6, ASPECTS ≥ 5, and documented recanalization at thrombectomy centers. FR was defined as a 90-day poor outcome (mRS 3–6) despite LVO recanalization on initial angiography. Among 190 PSC patients with documented recanalization post-IVT, 113 (59.5%) had FR. Multivariable analysis identified age (OR = 1.03, 95%CI = 1.01–1.07, p = 0.021), NIHSS at the PSC (OR = 1.13, 95%CI = 1.05–1.22, p = 0.026), and collateral status (OR = 0.54, 95%CI = 0.39–0.75, p = 0.001) as independent predictors of FR and 90-day mortality. A model combining age, NIHSS, and collateral score provided the highest predictive accuracy for FR and mortality. FR is common in LVO-related ischemic stroke treated with IVT at non-thrombectomy centers. FR is common in LVO-related ischemic stroke treated with IVT at non-thrombectomy centers. Identifying predictors of FR can guide clinicians in early decision-making, allowing for tailored interventions and informed discussions about expected outcomes, potentially leading to more optimized patient management.

The GOTIC-VTE trial Unique identifier, jRCTs031180124; Registration date, April 06, 2017.

Graphical Abstract
Membrane Fouling and Control Approaches in Membrane Bioreactor Systems: A Review
Authors: Turan Mustafa
Published: February 2025

Membrane bioreactors (MBRs), in which membranes are performed to biological wastewater treatment for biomass separation, ensure many benefits over traditional wastewater treatment. The technology has developed to contain anaerobic MBRs (AnMBRs) due to the profit of generating renewable energy in the form of methane biogas and decreasing the cost of aeration and sludge disposal. Results show that the non-settleable substances and high solid concentrations in AnMBR cause to a significant membrane fouling inclination compared to aerobic MBR. Curiously, there seemed a critical AGS size (1–1.2 mm) for membrane fouling. Above or below critical AGS size, fouling declined as the size increase or decrease. Membrane fouling in MBRs can be reversible (i.e., detachable by physical washing) or irreversible (i.e., detachable by chemical cleaning solely), and can happen on the membrane surface or into the membrane pores. The use of air scouring (for aerobic MBRs) or biogas sparging (for AnMBRs) is widely used for fouling control. This paper provides to review current methods employed to mitigate and control membrane fouling in aerobic MBR, AnMBR and combined MBR systems. Overscale implementation of fouling control approaches should be the focus of future studies.

Graphical Abstract (Liu et al., 2020a)
Asymmetries in Firm-Level Globalization: The Case of Swiss Multinational Enterprises
Authors: Verbeke Alain , Eschmann David , Gugler Philippe
Published: February 2025

This paper addresses the regional and global strategies of multinational enterprises (MNEs), with an application to the largest Swiss companies. We extend Rugman and Verbeke’s (2004) classic approach to measure MNE globalization by adopting a multidimensional lens, whereby we focus on four distinct parameters that evaluate respectively: market success across geographic space (proxied by sales); investments as a response to foreign business opportunities (proxied by assets); human capital (as proxied by the employees’ geographic distribution); and knowledge capital (as measured by patented innovations). We observe substantial discrepancies in globalization levels according to the parameter used. According to this study, the largest segment of companies (42.1%) remains home-regional in terms of sales. Bi-regional firms constitute the second largest category, comprising 28.9% of the sample. Only 21.1% of the companies can be classified as global in terms of sales distribution. Upstream activities such as knowledge capital seem to be more home-region oriented than downstream activities. One critical conclusion of this study is that not a single large Swiss MNE can be considered global in terms of knowledge capital creation.
Mapping sediment depths using seismic arrays, rotational measurements, and spectral ratios
Authors: Finger Claudia , Keil Sabrina , Gotowik Aileen , Jüstel Alexander , Brotzer Andreas
Published: February 2025

Unconsolidated sediments can amplify ground motions, increasing seismic hazard. Horizontal-to-vertical spectral ratios can derive the thickness of sediments overlaying stiffer bedrock. However, additional information about shear velocities and calibration with other structural information is necessary. Here, we propose a strictly ambient seismic noise-based workflow that can map the depth of sediments without additional information from other data sources. Rayleigh wave dispersion curves and ellipticities are derived from three-component beamforming of ambient noise and combined with dispersion curves from six-component measurements and horizontal-to-vertical spectral ratios. This is used to calibrate empirical relations between frequencies of extreme points in spectral ratio curves with depths of sediments. Applying the relations to more than forty seismic station data, we can map the depth of the Tertiary sediments at the southern margin of the lower Rhine embayment, Germany.
Dynamics of pre-release consumer buzz: Driving communication, search, and participation for market performance
Authors: Schreiner Thomas F. , Mandler Timo , van Heerde Harald J. , Haiduk Carolin
Published: February 2025

While pre-release consumer buzz may drive new product market performance, little is known about the importance of its distinct behavioral manifestations: communication, search, and participation. This paper not only studies how these three pre-release buzz behaviors affect market performance but also their dynamic interplay and how firms can drive pre-release buzz. Using movie data, we find self-enhancing and spillover effects of buzz throughout the pre-release period. For driving communication and search behaviors, firm social media posts are most effective, while movie trailers are most effective in evoking participatory behaviors. Furthermore, box office sales benefit the most from pre-release communication, followed by participation and search. These findings extend current knowledge by showing that while all buzz behaviors matter for driving market performance, communication plays a central role due to its powerful spillover effects on search and participation, and firms can effectively stimulate it through social media posts about the new product.
Changes in chemotherapy-induced cognitive impairment in gastrointestinal cancer survivors using multidomain assessments: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Saita Kazuya , Tanabe Kazuaki , Hamai Yoichi , Yamauchi Masami , Kaneko Fumiko , Mikami Yukio , Okamoto Wataru , Okada Morihito , Ohdan Hideki , Okamura Hitoshi
Published: February 2025

Purpose

Risk factors for cancer-related cognitive impairment (CRCI) are diverse; neuroimaging instruments are recommended to complement subjective and objective cognitive assessments. This study aimed to evaluate the feasibility of a multidomain assessment protocol for CRCI in gastrointestinal cancer survivors.

Methods

Twenty-four patients with gastrointestinal cancer were scheduled for chemotherapy, and 24 healthy controls were recruited. The Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-cognitive function (FACT-Cog) was used to assess subjective cognitive functions. Objective cognitive function was assessed using the trail making test, auditory verbal learning test (AVLT), and verbal fluency test. Cerebral hemodynamic changes in the prefrontal cortex were measured using portable functional near-infrared spectroscopy (P-NIRS). Assessments were conducted at baseline and 6-month follow-up.

Results

Thirty-eight participants were included in the analysis. There was a statistically significant difference in AVLT-delayed recall (p = 0.002) in the chemotherapy group compared with the healthy control group, but no significant difference in either group for other cognitive assessments. The chemotherapy group exhibited reduced activity in the left frontal pole at 6 months post-treatment compared to baseline (p = 0.018).

Conclusions

Gastrointestinal cancer survivors who receive chemotherapy may exhibit poorer delayed recall of memory functions than healthy individuals. Monitoring prefrontal cortical hemodynamics using P-NIRS during cognitive tasks is feasible for clinical application and understanding CRCI symptoms.

Implications for Cancer Survivors

These multidomain assessments are translatable to clinical practice and useful for other cancers. Additionally, the P-NIRS assessments may offer a deeper understanding on the impact of depressive symptoms and declining motivation on the cognitive function of cancer survivors.
A radiographic analysis of humerus shaft fractures to predict non-union
Authors: Price Alexander , O’Driscoll Conor , Kotze Nicolaas , Vukanic Danilo , Jemelik Petr , Cleary May , O’Briain David
Published: February 2025

Background

Humeral shaft fracture non-union rates of up to 33% have been reported when managed non-operatively. When managed surgically, non-union rates of 10% have been seen. The initial radiographic displacement parameters may be of significance in determining whether non-operative treatment might fail.

Aims

To determine whether the initial radiographic displacement of humeral shaft fractures can predict non-union rates and assist in decision-making for surgical intervention.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study was performed to identify all patients with humeral shaft fractures presenting to a regional trauma centre over a three-year period. Three-observer measurements were taken on defined radiographic parameters. These were compared between groups treated successfully with surgery and with non-operative intervention. A subset group was identified who failed non-operative treatment and required delayed surgery. Statistical analysis was performed to determine whether the group that failed non-operative treatment met the proposed radiographic parameters predicting treatment failure.

Results

Eighty patients were identified over the defined three-year period. Failure of non-operative management occurred in 6/43 (13.95%) patients. Failed conservative treatment was associated with increased age, female gender, and increased AP translation of lateral radiographs. Fractures successfully treated non-operatively showed a significantly lower AP translation on the lateral radiographs compared to patients who failed non-operative treatment 9.69 mm (IQR 4.90–14.05 mm) versus 22.61 mm (IQR 15.73–23.83 mm), p-value = 0.042.

Conclusion

Significant initial AP displacement may be associated with failure of non-operative management. This study highlights the importance of initial radiographic parameters of displacement in predicting possible failure of non-operative management for midshaft humerus fractures.
Achieving More Optimal Lipid Control with Non-Statin Lipid Lowering Therapy
Authors: Nicholls Stephen J. , Nelson Adam J.
Published: February 2025

Purpose of Review

The use of statins has transformed approaches to the prevention of cardiovascular disease. However, many patients remain at a major risk of experiencing cardiovascular events, due to a range of factors including suboptimal control of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C). Accordingly, there is an ongoing need to develop additional strategies, beyond the use of statins, to achieve more effective reductions in cardiovascular risk.

Recent Findings

Genomic studies have implicated the causal role of LDL in atherosclerosis and identified that polymorphisms influencing factors involved in lipid metabolism influence both the level of LDL-C and cardiovascular risk. These findings have highlighted the potential for cardiovascular benefit from development of therapies targeting these factors and incremental benefit when used in combination with statins. Clinical trials have demonstrated that these new agents have favourable effects on both atherosclerotic plaque and cardiovascular events. Additional work has sought to improve intensification of statin therapy and adherence with lipid lowering therapy, to achieve more effective cardiovascular prevention via lipid lowering.

Emerging therapies, beyond statins, have the potential to optimise lipid levels and play an effective role in the prevention of cardiovascular disease.
Point-of-Care Ultrasonography in the Critical Care Unit: An Update
Authors: Guevarra Keith , Greenstein Yonatan
Published: February 2025

Purpose of Review

This article outlines updates in point of care ultrasonography.

Recent Findings

Improving diagnostic accuracy and image quality is continuing to evolve in Point-of-care ultrasonography (POCUS). This include incorporating Artificial Intelligence (AI) and use of other modalities such as Doppler in lung ultrasonography. Transesophageal echocardiography is an emerging option when imaging is difficult to obtain via transthoracic echocardiography. POCUS is becoming instrumental when used during cardiac arrest. Ultrasound (VExUS) Grading System is a promising measurement to assess a patient’s volume status. Given the multiple advantages of POCUS usage, competency in POCUS became a requirement of Critical Care fellowship training.

POCUS is an important diagnostic modality and guide to medical management. New technological advances such as AI, can serve as a guide to enhance image quality and help accurately obtain quantitative assessments. POCUS has a major role during cardiac arrest and advanced cardiac life support. The clinical utility of POCUS was further substantiated during the COVID-19 pandemic. The Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) requires critical care programs to include competency in POCUS as part of their training.
The Impact of Diet and Nutrition on Prostate Cancer – Food for Thought?
Authors: Babakhanlou Rodrick , Gowin Krisstina
Published: February 2025

Purpose of Review

Prostate cancer is the second most common type of cancer in men.

Its incidence varies widely and is influenced by geographic location, race, ethnicity, lifestyle factors, and diet. The purpose of this review is to discuss the association between prostate cancer and diet and outline the impact of fats, carbohydrates, proteins, vitamins and phytonutrients on the pathogenesis of disease.

Recent Findings

Although conclusive evidence is limited, current data is indicative that a diet low in particular fats, animal proteins, dairy products and high in vegetables and fruits can be beneficial in supporting the course of disease.

Promoting a dietary pattern low in processed meat, dairy products, refined carbohydrates and saturated fats, but high in fruits and vegetables may have beneficial effects on prostate metabolism and inhibit various stages of carcinogenesis.
Clinical Relevance of ATRX/DAXX Gene Mutations and ALT in Functioning Pancreatic Neuroendocrine Tumors
Authors: van ´t Veld Brenna R. , Hackeng Wenzel M. , Luchini Claudio , Brosens Lodewijk A. A. , Dreijerink Koen M. A.
Published: February 2025

Functioning pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (PanNETs) represent a subset of PanNETs that cause symptoms due to hormonal activity. Insulinoma is the most common functioning PanNET type. Mutations in the alpha thalassemia/mental retardation X-linked (ATRX) and death domain-associated protein (DAXX) genes result in genomic instability. ATRX/DAXX mutations and associated alternative lengthening of telomeres (ALT) are common in non-functioning PanNETs and associated with aggressive tumor behavior. Recent reports have shown that ATRX/DAXX mutations and ALT are also present in functioning PanNETs. In this review, we summarize the literature addressing ATRX/DAXX mutations and ALT in functioning PanNETs and discuss the clinical relevance with regard to distinguishing aggressive and indolent functioning tumors. ATRX/DAXX gene mutations and/or ALT have been reported in insulinoma, glucagonoma, gastrinoma, VIPoma and calcitoninoma. In insulinoma, the presence of ATRX/DAXX mutations and ALT are associated with aggressive behavior and could therefore be used as prognostic biomarkers. Although ATRX/DAXX mutation and ALT assessment may currently not be the standard of care in routine diagnostic pathology practice, the use of DAXX/ATRX immunohistochemistry at least can be encouraged not only for non-functioning but also for functioning PanNETs.
Racial/Ethnic Differences and Effects of Clinical/Socioeconomic Factors on Time from Diagnosis to Treatment in Pancreatic Cancer
Authors: Sridharan Anush , Dotan Efrat , Dorta Marianna , Vemula Navya , Handorf Elizabeth , Deng Mengying , Renning Ashley , Sorice Kristen , Laderman Lauren , Whittington Kate , Cukierman Edna , Astsaturov Igor , Vijayvergia Namrata , Meyer Joshua E. , Reddy Sanjay S. , Lynch Shannon M.
Published: February 2025

Purpose

Five-year survival for pancreatic adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is < 10% but can vary by a patient’s race, socioeconomic status (SES), and the factors related to the neighborhood where a patient lives (nSES) . Prolonged time from diagnosis to first treatment (T2T) is another important disparity indicator. Here, we examined the effect of race, nSES, and patient-level clinical factors on T2T and survival in metastatic PDAC (mPDAC) patients.

Methods

Patients with mPDAC treated at an academic cancer center between 2010 and 2018 (n = 334) were evaluated for nSES measures related to racial concentration, neighborhood deprivation, stability, immigration status, and transportation access from the US Census. We assessed and reported the effects of nSES and patient-level variables (age, race, gender, Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI), etc.) on T2T and survival using univariate and multivariate Cox proportional hazards regression, hazard ratios (HR), confidence intervals (CI).

Results

82.9% of the patients were White; 17.1% were Black. Median T2T was 26 days with no significant difference in T2T and survival by race. In multivariable models, no nSES variables were significantly associated with T2T. T2T did not significantly impact survival; however, receipt of chemotherapy (HR = 0.14 [95% CI = 0.06, 0.30]) was associated with better survival outcomes.

Conclusion

Among patients with mPDAC, T2T was not associated with race/ethnic disparities or survival in a mostly White, high SES population treated at a comprehensive cancer center. Future investigations into pancreatic cancer disparities may be warranted in other hospital settings and in larger, more diverse study samples.