bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Outcome measurement in functional neurological disorder: A qualitative study on the views of patients, caregivers and healthcare professionals
Authors: Rutten Sonja , Bradley-Westguard Abigail , Nicholson Timothy R. , Pick Susannah
Published: February 2025

Background

In this qualitative study, we aimed to obtain and synthesise the views of patients with functional neurological disorder (FND), their caregivers, and relevant healthcare professionals (HCPs) on outcome measurement in FND.

Methods

Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 22 FND patients, 18 caregivers and 21 HCPs, sampled purposively in the United Kingdom. Transcripts were analysed through inductive thematic analysis.

Results

Whilst reduction or resolution of FND symptoms were frequently mentioned as important treatment goals in all groups, this was reported by a larger proportion of caregivers and HCPs than patients. Patients most frequently hoped for improvements in mental health/well-being. Other important treatment goals were resuming work, and an increase in independence, self-management or self-efficacy.

Of the 20 domains deemed relevant for outcome assessment, improvements in FND symptoms, emotional well-being, activities of daily living and quality-of-life, were mentioned most frequently.

None of the participants thought that outcome assessment should be purely clinician-rated or objective; all believed that the patient’s subjective experience should be central. Nevertheless, participants in all groups acknowledged that clinician-rated or objective OMIs have added value in clinical outcome assessment. The benefits of digital outcome assessment were also mentioned by several participants.

Conclusions

This is the first study to capture the views of key stakeholders on outcome assessment in FND. The findings indicate that outcome measures for FND should be patient-centred, whilst also including HCP opinion. Critical domains for assessment are FND symptoms, mental health, quality-of-life and the ability to perform activities of daily living.
Accelerometry-derived features of physical activity, sleep and circadian rhythm relate to non-motor symptoms in individuals with isolated REM sleep behavior disorder
Authors: Ophey Anja , Vinod Vaishali , Röttgen Sinah , Scharfenberg Daniel , Fink Gereon R. , Sommerauer Michael , Kalbe Elke , Maetzler Walter , Hansen Clint
Published: February 2025

Accelerometry enables passive, continuous, high-frequency monitoring under free-living conditions. For individuals with isolated REM sleep behavior disorder (iRBD), a potential prodromal phase of Parkinson’s disease (PD) and dementia with Lewy bodies, accelerometry has been primarily applied to aid diagnosis and to assess phenoconversion risk. To extend this knowledge, we cross-sectionally combined clinical assessments focusing on non-motor symptoms with accelerometry-derived features of physical activity (PA), sleep, and circadian rhythm of N = 68 individuals with iRBD (age: 69.48 ± 6.01 years, self-reported RBD symptom duration: 9.46 ± 6.21 years, 85 % male). Accelerometry-assessed PA was associated with more stable circadian rhythms. Additionally, higher PA and more stable circadian rhythms were linked to a lower burden of overall non-motor symptoms, depressive symptoms, and fatigue with small to moderate effect sizes. Furthermore, including accelerometry-derived features improved the prediction of individual clinical scores, particularly for cognitive performance. Our findings contribute to the growing body of evidence highlighting the complex interplay between PA, sleep, circadian rhythm, and non-motor symptoms in α-synucleinopathies. Future research should focus on longitudinal studies to monitor changes in clinical outcomes and digital biomarkers over time to enhance our understanding of symptom progression and corresponding lifestyle changes in prodromal and manifest α-synucleinopathies.
Portable ultra-low-field MRI for progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy: Case studies, sensitivity, and potential applications
Authors: Okar Serhat V. , Kawatra Karan D. , Thommana Ashley A. , Vultorius Daniela C. , Nair Govind , Gaitán María I. , Norato Gina , Mina Yair , Fletcher Anita , Reich Daniel S. , Cortese Irene
Published: February 2025

Background and objective

Progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) is a severe, disabling infection caused by JC virus reactivation. PML-related disability complicates the MRI monitoring needed to assess treatment interventions in clinical trial or compassionate use settings. Portable ultra-low-field MRI (pULF-MRI) offers a convenient approach when such frequent imaging is needed. We evaluated the potential utility of pULF-MRI as an adjunctive tool for decreasing the burden of clinical study participation and clinical management in PML.

Methods

We examined paired high-field (HF) and pULF-MRI scans from 11 patients, aged 49 ± 15 years. pULF-MRI images with corresponding HF-MRI were coupled to depict key imaging findings of PML, including three patients with longitudinal evaluations, one with bedside pULF-MRI. The images were then independently assessed by two blinded raters, not involved in image acquisition or initial evaluations, who sequentially rated diagnostic accuracy of pULF-MRI scans compared to the HF-MRI. Longitudinal evaluations were performed for three patients, one with bedside pULF-MRI.

Results

T2-FLAIR lesions were detected with pULF-ULF in all cases when present on HF-MRI. Median sensitivity and specificity were 62% and 100%, respectively. T1WI hypointense areas showed similar performance. Focal volume loss was present in 8/11 HF-MRI scans, with sensitivity and specificity of detection by pULF-MRI of 100% and 94%, respectively. Contrast enhancement was seen in a single case on both pULF- and HF-MRI. Follow-up pULF-MRI showed lesion changes in two cases, and stable findings in one case, consistent with HF-MRI.

Discussion

pULF-MRI shows promise in evaluation and monitoring of PML, showing moderate-to-high accuracy even when evaluations were unaided by HF-MRI. Our results highlight a potential application of pULF-MRI for facilitating participation in PML clinical research and more generally as a way to reduce burden of clinical management for this disabled patient population.
Speeding up MPM calculations in MPM-FEM hybrid method incorporating inconsistent domain decomposition patterns for solid and fluid phases
Authors: Pan Shaoyuan , Hidano Soma , Nomura Reika , Jing Lu , Miki Yohei , Kawai Masatoshi , Moriguchi Shuji , Nakajima Kengo , Terada Kenjiro
Published: February 2025

A new method is developed to improve the computational efficiency of MPM calculations in MPM-FEM hybrid analyses with the help of a dynamic load balancing (DLB) technique. This method achieves proper communication between control points associated with the B-spline basis functions assigned to the cores corresponding to not only the adaptively located subdomains for the MPM, which change with the deformation of the solid phase, but also the separately located subdomains for the MPM and stabilized FEM. Since higher-order B-spline functions are used in the MPM-FEM to reduce the cell-crossing error that often arises in the MPM with linear basis functions, material points and control points that need to communicate variable values are not always located at domain boundaries, further increasing the complexity of interdomain communication. A novel contribution of this study is the high computational efficiency of the MPM calculations, which allow for proper communication under this complexity. The first example is an MPM run for the solid phase only aimed at investigating the scalability and parallel efficiency of the developed DLB. The second and third examples show that the DLB technique for MPM calculations achieves excellent computational efficiency even when the MPM-FEM hybrid method results in inconsistent domain decomposition patterns for the fluid and solid phases.
Vessel anatomy of urban Celtis occidentalis trees varies to favour safety or efficiency depending on site conditions
Authors: Rissanen Kaisa , Vitali Valentina , Kneeshaw Daniel , Paquette Alain
Published: February 2025

Key message

Urban trees can acclimate to their growth environment through changes in vessel anatomy. Vessel lumen area and vessel frequency following a gradient from park trees to inner-city street trees.

Urban trees stand in potentially stressful growth environments occurring along gradients of urban heat and impermeable surface cover and, to survive, can adjust their function and structure. The consequent tree-to-tree variations in hydraulic xylem traits can shed light on tree hydraulics and capacity to acclimate to diverse conditions, as well as identify limitations to tree growth and survival. Using microscopic analysis of increment cores, we compared early wood vessel traits of the ring-porous angiosperm Celtis occidentalis in three urban site types: central streets, residential streets and parks, within the city of Montreal. We explored differences in vessel traits (mean vessel lumen area, vessel frequency, vessel grouping index and derived variables) between site types, vessel trait intercorrelations and correlations with monthly temperature, precipitation and heat-moisture index over 10 years. The vessel traits significantly differed between site types. Park trees had the largest and central street trees had the smallest vessel lumen area and theoretical hydraulic conductivity; traits supporting efficient water transport. Central street trees had the largest vessel frequency and smallest theoretical vulnerability to cavitation; traits connected to hydraulic safety. Residential street tree traits were in between. Among central and residential street trees, water transport efficiency traits correlated positively with cool springs or arid summers, whereas among park trees, mainly vessel frequency and grouping index responded to climate variations. These results highlight the capacity of C. occidentalis to acclimate to urban environments and the potential of anatomical traits for quantifying the effects of urban environments on tree functioning.

Graphical Abstract
The role of oil-suspension phenomenon in oil-jet lubricated gears and bearings: an innovative numerical approach
Authors: Concli Franco
Published: February 2025

As the demand for higher power density and reliable mechanical gear transmissions grows, effective lubrication has become a critical design requirement. Optimizing lubricant supply not only reduces power losses and improves system efficiency but also lowers operating temperatures and enhances overall reliability. This paper presents two Finite Volume multi-phase models developed in
$$\text{OpenFOAM}^{\text{\textregistered}}$$
for simulating lubrication of mechanical systems. Two examples of different flow regimes (namely high speed oil-jet gear lubrication and low speed oil-jet bearing lubrication) are considered and analyzed with different approaches (Eulerian-Eulerian dispersed model and Eulerian separated model with interface tracking). Numerical results are compared with experimental data provided by the Ohio State University’s (back-to-back test rig under varying operating conditions), highlighting the crucial role of oil droplet concentration on the “wet-windage” power loss mechanism.
An eye-tracking study of visual attention in chimpanzees and bonobos when viewing different tool-using techniques
Authors: Piao Yige , Brooks James , Yamamoto Shinya
Published: February 2025

Chimpanzees and bonobos are excellent tool users and can socially learn various skills. Previous studies on social learning mainly measure success/failure in acquiring new techniques, with less direct measurement of proximate mechanisms like visual attention during the process. This study investigates how great apes observe tool-using demonstrations through eye-tracking. After checking initial techniques, six chimpanzees and six bonobos were shown video demonstrations of human demonstrators using a tube to dip (low-efficiency) or suck (high-efficiency) juice, and then tried the task themselves. Attention to each video was compared to participants’ knowledge. Although no individuals acquired the high-efficiency technique through video demonstrations, eye-tracking results revealed attentional differences between individuals familiar with different techniques. Compared with individuals already familiar with both techniques, individuals knowing only the dipping technique showed less attention to the unfamiliar sucking technique. This result indicates that apes may not attend much to what they do not know well, which aligns with reported interplay of action observation and understanding. Attentional patterns to the action part of the two techniques was non-significant between species, though bonobos looked marginally more at faces and chimpanzees looked significantly more at food. This study highlights the importance of conducting detailed investigations into social learning processes, with eye-tracking as one valuable method.
A Deep-Learning Approach for Vocal Fold Pose Estimation in Videoendoscopy
Authors: Villani Francesca Pia , Fiorentino Maria Chiara , Federici Lorenzo , Piazza Cesare , Frontoni Emanuele , Paderno Alberto , Moccia Sara
Published: February 2025

Accurate vocal fold (VF) pose estimation is crucial for diagnosing larynx diseases that can eventually lead to VF paralysis. The videoendoscopic examination is used to assess VF motility, usually estimating the change in the anterior glottic angle (AGA). This is a subjective and time-consuming procedure requiring extensive expertise. This research proposes a deep learning framework to estimate VF pose from laryngoscopy frames acquired in the actual clinical practice. The framework performs heatmap regression relying on three anatomically relevant keypoints as a prior for AGA computation, which is estimated from the coordinates of the predicted points. The assessment of the proposed framework is performed using a newly collected dataset of 471 laryngoscopy frames from 124 patients, 28 of whom with cancer. The framework was tested in various configurations and compared with other state-of-the-art approaches (direct keypoints regression and glottal segmentation) for both pose estimation, and AGA evaluation. The proposed framework obtained the lowest root mean square error (RMSE) computed on all the keypoints (5.09, 6.56, and 6.40 pixels, respectively) among all the models tested for VF pose estimation. Also for the AGA evaluation, heatmap regression reached the lowest mean average error (MAE) (

$$5.87^{\circ }$$

5
.

87
∘

). Results show that relying on keypoints heatmap regression allows to perform VF pose estimation with a small error, overcoming drawbacks of state-of-the-art algorithms, especially in challenging images such as pathologic subjects, presence of noise, and occlusion.
Initial assessment of PNS safety for interventionalists during image-guided procedures
Authors: Jia Feng , Endt Axel vom , Amrein Philipp , Russe Maximilian Frederik , Rohdjess Heiko , Leghissa Martino , Zaitsev Maxim , Littin Sebastian
Published: February 2025

Purpose

This study investigates peripheral nerve stimulation (PNS) safety thresholds for health professionals performing MRI procedures and the variation of arm rotations in close vicinity to the magnet bore.

Methods

Employing two posable human body models, this research utilized quasi-static electromagnetic calculations and neurodynamic simulations to assess PNS thresholds. Different arm rotations are compared for standing interventionalist’s posture assuming the supine patient position, typical for medical interventions inside MRI devices.

Results

This study reveals that arm rotations in standing postures result in variations in PNS thresholds. However, for all the arm poses considered, the threshold was at least 2.4 times higher compared to the patient position. Differences in PNS thresholds and electric field distributions were observed between male and female models.

Conclusions

The findings suggest that when the PNS thresholds for imaging subjects are not exceeded, it is likely that a subject leaning into the bore will also not experience PNS. However, variations in PNS thresholds due to arm movements highlight the importance of considering body posture in MRI safety protocols.
Systematic Literature Review on Passenger Car Fire Experiments for Car Park Safety Design
Authors: Miechówka Bartosz , Węgrzyński Wojciech
Published: February 2025

To allow future creation of knowledge-based design fire scenarios for car fires, a systematic literature review was performed. Keywords “fire + passenger vehicle” and “fire + car” were filtered in Scopus, Science Direct and Web of Science databases for 1990–2024 period yielding 11 papers containing relevant data. A further citation mining on references revealed another 33. A total of 148 individual records of fire experiments were identified, with records of the heat release rate (or mass loss rate), total heat release and time to reach peak heat release rate. The database was subdivided by the car size and drivetrain, as well by the age of experiments. Analysing the course of experiments, common phases of fires have been identified, leading to another sub-division of the database by the location of the ignition source. It was found that fires initiated from the underneath the car did lead to higher peak HRR and a shorter time to peak compared to fires starting at other locations. Statistical distributions of peak HRR, time to peak HRR and THR are given for each sub-set of data. The average Heat of Combustion value of 25 MJ/kg (± 7 MJ/kg) was identified for the entire dataset.
Institutionalised amnesia? Exploring geographies of memory and the care of German graves in Central Europe: insights from the Czech Republic
Authors: Novotný Lukáš
Published: February 2025

The care of German tombs and graves remains a sensitive and complex issue in Central Europe, particularly in the Czech Republic. This study adopts a historical–geographical approach to explore German cemeteries and graves as significant memory landscapes. Specifically, it investigates the current state of German cemeteries in the Czech Republic, identifies forms of devastation, and examines the tools available to burial ground operators for their maintenance. The theoretical framework draws upon the concepts of lieux de mémoire (sites of memory) and a metaphorical understanding of memory landscapes. Empirically, the study involves on-site visits to cemeteries and the implementation of semi-structured interviews in three case study regions within the country. The findings contribute to a proposal for measures aimed at preserving and caring for abandoned German cemeteries, taking into account ongoing scholarly debates on the geography and politics of memory. Among the key recommendations is the establishment of a subsidy programme to support, even symbolically, the rehabilitation of graves of significant historical figures. Additionally, the development of a methodological guide is proposed to assist mayors and other burial ground operators in addressing practical challenges related to the care and restoration of these graves.
Spatial patterns of Fulbright scholars of North Carolina: a meta-synthesis approach
Authors: Balasubramani Karuppusamy , Malhotra Rakesh , Gordana Vlahovic
Published: February 2025

North Carolina (NC) actively participates in the Fulbright Scholar program, a premier educational and cultural exchange initiative established in 1946 by the United States. The program provides opportunities for passionate and accomplished scholars from NC to visit over 160 countries and for NC institutions to host faculty professionals from around the world in diverse disciplines. This study aims to meta-synthesize the NC Fulbright database to decipher the spatial patterns of local institutes that have benefitted from the Fulbright program. Data were extracted from the Fulbright Scholar directory and split into three quarter-century periods (1949–1975, 1975–2000, and 2000–2024) across two spatial domains: worldwide and statewide. Cartographic methods were used to visualize these spatio-temporal patterns. The trend analysis reveals that the mean number of U.S. scholars who went abroad from the state increased from 12 (1949–1975) to 41 (2000–2024), with a doubling of countries travelled to (from 53 to 110 countries). While scholars from the state travelled all major continents, cultural exchanges with the global south, especially culturally diverse central African countries, were limited. Over the years, there has been a shift in the choice of world regions and disciplines away from developed European countries for Literature, History, and Political Science disciplines to emerging countries for Education, Engineering, and Law disciplines. The state has consistently received about 20 visiting scholars every year, primarily from emerging nations such as India, China, South Korea, and Argentina to the major universities in the Triangle region—such as the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill, Duke University, and North Carolina State University—these institutes continue to dominate both U.S. Scholar and Visiting Scholar fellowships (about 75%) in the state. This study underscores the need for a diverse approach in awarding U.S. Fulbright program opportunities, especially to the Historically Black Colleges and Universities, to enhance international educational and cultural exchange, especially with the global south.
Productivity slowdown and regional productivity heterogeneity
Authors: Tsiapa Maria , Tzeremes Panayiotis G. , Tzeremes Nickolaos G.
Published: February 2025

This paper examines the productivity slowdown by analyzing the degree, leverage, and spatial patterns of productivity improvements and spillovers in regions of France, Germany, Italy, and Spain. The analysis covers the Global Financial Crisis (2007–2012) as well as the pre-crisis (2002–2007) and post-crisis (2012–2017) periods. Using the Metafrontier Malmquist Productivity approach with robust estimators, the study conceptualizes technological shifts and diffusion networks within both endogenous and exogenous regional environments. Findings show that changes in technical efficiency have a short-term positive effect on regional growth, while technical change affects growth through initial conditions and path dependency. Regional productivity shifted from improving within-country resource allocation via endogenous factors enhancing the exogenous operating environment. However, unlocking a region’s full productivity potential depends on factors beyond its development level. Diffusion networks for efficiency and technological advancements exhibit limited dynamism and region-specific characteristics. In some cases, productivity growth in one region negatively affects neighboring regions. Spillovers from efficiency improvements occur partially among regions with closer technological proximity, especially during crises. These insights offer important policy implications for fostering regional productivity and addressing uneven development.
White coat color in Vietnamese native buffalo is attributed to the LINE1 insertion in ASIP
Authors: Nguyen Thuy Thanh , Le Quan Viet , Nguyen Van Huu , Duong Hai Thanh , Tsuji Takehito
Published: February 2025

The coat color of the swamp buffalo is commonly dark gray, while the white coat color variant, which may have potential heat stress advantages, is also present in some Asian countries, including Vietnam. This study analyzed the most likely candidate genes, ASIP and TYR, responsible for the white coat color of Vietnamese native buffaloes. We found that LINE1 insertion in ASIP, a mutation previously reported in white swamp buffalo from other Asian countries, was exclusively found in white Vietnamese buffalo. Moreover, significantly higher expression of ASIP was confirmed in the hair follicles of white buffalo. On the other hand, no variants associated with the white phenotype were found in TYR. These findings indicate that the LINE1 insertion in ASIP is responsible for the white coat color in Vietnamese native buffalo, and that provides a crucial step towards their utilization and improved productivity in Vietnam.
Lessons learned through participatory bird-window collision research on a university campus
Authors: Partridge Hannah C. , Netzley Rebekah , Wright Alex , Amodeo Joseph , Barnett Sophie , Baron Ron , French Braden , Arneson Dakota , Gagné Sara A.
Published: February 2025

Bird populations face many threats worldwide, including collisions with anthropogenic structures such as buildings’ windows. Bird-window collisions are gaining attention, but research and mitigation often face barriers including collision surveying guidelines, funding availability, and retrofitting costs and approvals. Beginning in 2022, we conducted research about bird-window collisions on an urban university campus to engage students in research and inform the implementation of mitigation at the site(s) with the most collisions. To achieve these goals, we worked with undergraduate and graduate students, faculty, staff, administrators, and media personnel to monitor bird-window collisions, spread the word throughout the community, and advocate for retrofitting buildings. Research was incorporated into a course-based undergraduate research experience, several undergraduate directed studies, paid undergraduate research positions, and volunteer opportunities. By the end of 2024, bird-friendly window markers were installed on two buildings on campus. In this article, we present the collective reflections and lessons learned from university stakeholders involved in the project. We recommend that similar conservation projects on university campuses (1) maximize project flexibility and consider how to best support stakeholders; (2) build impact and momentum over time by engaging stakeholders in unique ways; and (3) leverage participants’ previous experiences and use a solution-focused approach to ensure that participation is motivating and rewarding. With our lessons learned, similar projects on other university campuses may be able to attain more success in student engagement, project outcomes, and ultimately, the implementation of bird-friendly practices.
Minima Trivialia Bypassed
Authors: Salis Pietro
Published: February 2025

Peirce’s pragmatist theory of truth holds that truth will be the outcome of an indefinitely adequate amount of scientific research. According to the minima trivialia objection, Peirce’s theory of truth is refuted by such common sense truths as that about what I ate for breakfast, which is hardly the outcome of a prolonged collective scientific endeavour. The argument does not work, however, if we endorse Sellars’s distinction between the manifest image and the scientific image of mankind in the world and the connected scientific realism: in this Sellarsian context, minima trivialia can be seen as false views from the perspective of the manifest image, like the existence and persistence of material objects, and not as proper truths, which are appreciated as such only from the point of view of the scientific image. Therefore, the endorsement of this distinction, which is quite compatible with Peirce’s framework, bypasses the minima trivialia objection.
Fiber Bragg Grating Sensor Embedding and Temperature Monitoring in Die-Casting Molds Using Directed Energy Deposition
Authors: Jang Jihoon , Baek Gyeong-Yun
Published: February 2025

Die casting is a widely used precision casting method. In die casting, the injection and mold temperatures affect the fluidity during casting and cooling. However, because the temperature characterization of die-casting molds is conducted fragmentarily using thermocouples and thermal imaging cameras, a fundamental solution is needed to ensure the reliability of the temperature data. In this study, real-time multipoint temperature measurements were conducted by embedding a seamless tube into an AISI-H13 specimen using Directed Energy Deposition. The interface of the deposited layer and H13 substrate was subsequently observed via Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM). Real-time temperature monitoring according to the embedding depth was conducted by inserting fiber Bragg grating (FBG) sensors into the specimen, followed by mechanical property testing. The temperature sensitivity and stabilization did not significantly differ within the 1-3 mm depth range, thus confirming that the temperatures at multiple points could be measured in real time. The SEM images revealed no porosity at the interface. Compared with that of the original material, the tensile strength of the deposited layer improved. Furthermore, because the interface hardness of H13 exceeds that of 50 HRC, which is commonly used in die casting, FBG sensors could also be applied to industrial die-casting molds.
In Situ Spray Bead Acquisition and Analysis for Coating Thickness Predictions
Authors: Hudomalj Uroš , Aschwanden Ivo , Weiss Lukas , Nabavi Majid , Wegener Konrad
Published: February 2025

Coating thickness is considered to be one of the most important characteristics of thermal spray coatings. Therefore, it has long been the goal to be able to predict the coating thickness that ensues when coating an arbitrary part. A commonly applied approach is to determine the coating deposit based on a series of spray spot tests and use that for modeling the coating. Another option is to conduct spray bead tests, which better reflect the conditions during the coating. This work suggests a novel approach for in situ acquisition of the spray beads and their analysis. The acquisition is based on a 3D camera to scan the sample before and after depositing of a spray bead. The approach allows for their streamlined evaluation, enabling better understanding of spray bead formation and their modeling. The suggested analysis of spray beads includes uncertainty evaluation. This enables estimation of model prediction uncertainties which has been omitted in the previous works on the topic. The analysis shows that a relative expanded uncertainty of 10% (at 95% level of confidence) can be expected for the coating thickness prediction for the simplest scenario of coating a flat sample sprayed perpendicularly at a constant spray distance and spray speed.
A Review of Polynomial Matrix Collocation Methods in Engineering and Scientific Applications
Authors: Çevik Mehmet , Savaşaneril Nurcan Baykuş , Sezer Mehmet
Published: February 2025

Ordinary, partial, and integral differential equations are indispensable tools across diverse scientific domains, enabling precise modeling of natural and engineered phenomena. The polynomial collocation method, a powerful numerical technique, has emerged as a robust approach for solving these equations efficiently. This review explores the evolution and applications of the collocation method, emphasizing its matrix-based formulation and utilization of polynomial sequences such as Chebyshev, Legendre, and Taylor series. Beginning with its inception in the late 20th century, the method has evolved to encompass a wide array of differential equation types, including integro-differential and fractional equations. Applications span mechanical vibrations, heat transfer, diffusion processes, wave propagation, environmental pollution modeling, medical uses, biomedical dynamics, and population ecology. The method’s efficacy lies in its ability to transform differential equations into algebraic systems using orthogonal polynomials at chosen collocation points, facilitating accurate numerical solutions across complex systems and diverse engineering and scientific disciplines. This approach circumvents the need for mesh generation and simplifies the computational complexity associated with traditional numerical methods. This comprehensive review consolidates theoretical foundations, methodological advancements, and practical applications, highlighting the method’s pivotal role in modern computational mathematics and its continued relevance in addressing complex scientific challenges.
Fractal wood burning remains a potentially lethal recreational activity
Authors: Byard Roger W. , Langlois Neil E. I.
Published: February 2025

Fractal burning is a recent form of pyrography (decorative wood burning) using an extremely high voltage applied across a wood surface soaked in an electrolyte solution to produce a ferning or ‘Lichtenberg’ pattern. Two fatal cases of electrocution are reported in adults engaged in fractal burning to demonstrate characteristic features. Both had evidence of electrical contact with extensive burning. Death can occur following accidental contact with electrodes, the electrolyte solution or a loose wire, or when the victim stands on a conductive floor, or does not wear appropriate protective clothing, or has the wood on a non-insulated surface. Investigators need to check for these issues and to also determine whether the decedent had been appropriately trained in the handling of high voltage equipment.
Ethical and academic dilemmas in authorship of clinical research publications: a medical oncologist’s perspective
Authors: Tanriverdi Ozgur
Published: February 2025

Authorship in clinical research carries significant academic, financial, and social implications. However, determining rightful authorship often introduces ethical and professional dilemmas, particularly in large, multidisciplinary studies, such as those common in oncology. This article explores the ethical complexities surrounding authorship in clinical research from the viewpoint of a medical oncologist. It addresses issues, such as academic jealousy, the inclusion of industry-affiliated researchers, honorary authorship, and the role of patient recruitment in authorship qualification. By examining current guidelines, ethical considerations, and practical cases, this paper aims to offer insights into fostering fair and transparent authorship practices in the field of clinical oncology.
Can the voice of children be heard?
Authors: Haupt Selma , Jann Nina , Klomann Verena
Published: February 2025

Beteiligung von Kindern und Jugendlichen ist seit vielen Jahrzehnten als Handlungsprinzip in der Kinder- und Jugendhilfe anerkannt und zudem rechtlich verankert. Der hiermit verbundene fachliche Anspruch ist allerdings hoch und nicht selten werden große Diskrepanzen zwischen dem Anliegen, gelingende Partizipation (institutionalisiert) zu ermöglichen und der tatsächlichen Umsetzung, deutlich. Der folgende Beitrag widmet sich diesem Kontinuum und führt zudem in den Schwerpunkt ‚Can the voice of children be heard?‘ ein.
Construction and initial validation of an academic impostor syndrome measure
Authors: Todd Valerie J. , Mcilroy David
Published: February 2025

Impostor syndrome has been identified as a growing problem in professional and academic settings. It has been associated with diminished confidence and inhibited performance. In the context of education, it has been reported as maladaptive to enrolment, retention, integration, wellbeing, and academic performance. One inhibiting factor is the lack of validated measures specific to education. Hence, the primary aim and original contribution of this study is the construction and initial validation of such a measure. This construction process was initially informed by a trawl of the literature on general impostor syndrome, with ten domains emerging from the reviews to provide content validity. Items were constructed in consultation with students as end users and academics from national and international symposia and seminars. The studies were carried out at two UK higher education institutions, with N = 339 undergraduates. Through iterative processes including item analysis, principal component analysis, and factor analyses, ten items were selected from a pool of thirty. These covered the ten literature domains and associated with good factor loadings (> 0.45) and sound model fit indicators. Invariance testing of both student groups demonstrated equivalence of factor structure and factor loadings. To enhance the measure’s validity, the Five-Factor Model of Personality, Self-esteem, and Self-efficacy were included. The moderate correlations of these factors with academic impostor syndrome in expected directions may respectively signpost the approach and avoidance behaviours that counter or nurture the problem. The new measure is commended as a potentially useful tool for research and practice.
From IMPACT to RECLAIM: A Single-Stage Cell Therapy for Articular Cartilage Repair and a Platform for Musculoskeletal Tissue Regeneration
Authors: Nagelli Christopher V. , Korpershoek Jasmijn V. , Lydon Katy , Vonk Lucienne , Custers Roel , Krych Aaron J. , Saris Daniel
Published: February 2025

Purpose of Review

Cartilage injury does not heal spontaneously. The current cell-based cartilage treatments have either demonstrated poor clinical outcomes, require two surgeries, or are costly and logistically challenging. To overcome these challenges, our team has developed a one-stage, two cell-type surgical cell therapy for acute chondral defects. This procedure combines allogeneic mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) and autologous chondrons to harness MSCs as signaling cells to stimulate chondrons to promote tissue repair. This procedure has been investigated in clinical trials conducted in both Europe and the United States which are called IMPACT and RECLAIM, respectively. This article provides a review of our preclinical and clinical research which led to the development of this cell therapy.

Recent Findings

The combination of allogeneic MSCs and autologous chondrons in preclinical studies have demonstrated to synergistically stimulate cartilage repair, and the combination of cells outperforms either cell-type alone. In clinical trials, the combined cell therapy was safe to use, improved knee function, and demonstrated durable pain reduction.

Our single-stage, combined cell therapy of allogeneic MSCs and autologous chondrons is a viable cell therapy for acute articular cartilage defects. We anticipate this combined cell therapy may be a platform cell therapy for a wide range of musculoskeletal repair applications.
Economic Performance of Potato Crops Dependent on Variety Specific Seed Piece Weight and Uniformity Within a Seed Lot
Authors: Hintze Alexa , Holden Zachary J. , Pavek Mark J.
Published: February 2025

Quality seed of the ideal size and type (i.e., whole-seed tubers or cut seed pieces) is critical in achieving uniform plant stands and optimal economic returns in commercial potato production. A survey assessed the performance of commercial seed cutting operations during 2021–22 to document the range of seed piece sizes planted in Washington. In addition, two field trials examined seed size performance (28, 42, 56, 70, 84, and 98 g (1.0, 1.5, 2.0, 2.5, 3.0, 3.5 oz)) for Clearwater Russet, Ranger Russet, and Russet Burbank. Seed type performance (whole vs cut) was also assessed for Clearwater Russet. As seed size increased from 28 to 98 g for all varieties and seed types, early plant growth generally improved, average tuber weight decreased by 22%, and stem and tuber number per plant increased by 77% and 50%, respectively. Cut Clearwater Russet seed produced 7% higher yields and 5% more economic return than whole seed. Economic return peaked for Clearwater Russet with a seed weight of 56 g (2.0 oz). Economic return of Ranger Russet and Russet Burbank peaked when seed size was between 70–84 g (2.5 to 3.0 oz) for Russet Burbank and at 84 g (3.0 oz) for Ranger Russet. Due to a highly variable range in cut seed size found in the commercial seed lot survey, growers may have lost an estimated $297 ha−1 or $15,000 pivot−1 (51 ha) during 2021–22 compared to a hypothetical potato field planted with uniform, economically optimal, seed sizes. We conclude that growers should target adequate seed sizes and minimize under- and oversized seed pieces to produce the highest economic return for each variety.
Omental patch as prevention for bile leak in patients undergoing subtotal cholecystectomy: a propensity score analysis
Authors: Ramírez-Giraldo Camilo , Avendaño-Morales Violeta , González-Muñoz Alejandro , Van-Londoño Isabella , Díaz-Castrillón Juan Felipe , Isaza-Restrepo Andrés
Published: February 2025

Subtotal cholecystectomy is one of the most frequent bail-out procedures performed during difficult cholecystectomy. A common complication to this procedure is bile leak, and thus multiple strategies have been created to avoid its appearance. This study aims to evaluate the effectivity of using an omental patch as bile leak prevention in patients undergoing subtotal cholecystectomy. A retrospective cohort study including patients who underwent subtotal cholecystectomy between 2014 and 2022 was performed. 17 patients had an omental patch, while 378 did not; the latter were included to evaluate surgical outcomes with bile leak as a primary outcome using a propensity score matching analysis (PSM). Patients’ median age in both groups after PSM was 71.00 (IQR: 59.00–81.00) and 69.00 (IQR: 61.75–80.25) years, respectively. The dominant sex in both groups was male. In most cases surgical procedure indication was cholecystitis. Patients who had an omental patch did not present statistically significant differences for bile leak rates compared to patients who did not (29.4% versus 17.6%, p = 0.456, respectively). Similar results were observed when evaluating the need for postoperative ERCP for bile leak management (23.5 versus 5.9%, p = 0.078). A statistically significant higher proportion of major complications were observed in patients who had an omental patch (47.1% versus 19.1%, p = 0.038). Pedicled omental patch was not an effective measure for preventing bile leak, and it even presented a higher rate of complications. It is thus imperative to continue evaluating other strategies for the prevention of bile leak during subtotal cholecystectomy.
Nano-spanlastics-loaded dissolving microneedle patches for ketotifen fumarate: advanced strategies for allergic conjunctivitis treatment and molecular insights
Authors: Elhabal Sammar Fathy , El-Nabarawi Mohamed , Elrefai Mohamed Fathi Mohamed , Teaima Mahmoud H. , Shoela Mai S. , Khamis Gehad M. , Faheem Ahmed Mohsen , kholeif Nada ahmed , Sanad Mahmoud Tarek
Published: February 2025

Allergic conjunctivitis (AC) is the most common inflammatory disease affecting the eye's ocular surface, lid, conjunctiva, and cornea. However, effective ocular drug delivery remains challenging due to physiological barriers such as the corneal barrier. Ketotifen (KF), a widely used antihistamine and mast cell stabilizer, for treating AC and atopic asthma but belongs to the Biopharmaceutical Classification System (BCS II) have poor solubility. This study developed a multiple strategies approach for the first time, utilizing the spanlastics nano-vesicular carriers’ system (SP) containing KF using an ethanol injection method. The optimized KF-SP exhibited the smallest particle size, largest zeta-potential and entrapment efficiency ∼232.5 ± 1.9 nm, -28 ± 0.51 and 73 ± 0.02%, respectively were further incorporated into PVA/PVP polymeric dissolving microneedles (MNs) by using a micromolding technique. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis confirmed well-defined tips and morphology, and in vitro studies showed a controlled 93% cumulative release over 72 h, with a zero-order kinetic release profile, providing stable therapeutic levels. Pharmacodynamic evaluation using the Ovalbumin/Aluminium hydroxide-induced AC model demonstrated significant reductions in IgE, TNF-α, and IL-6 levels by 68.7%, 71.3%, and 67.6%, respectively, while TGF-β and IL-10 levels increased by 70.1% and 62.7% using ELISA (Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay). Gene expression analysis (IGF-1, Annexin A1, and Bcl2) further supported the therapeutic potential of this system. In this study, we proved the topical application of the multiple strategies approach KF-SP loaded PVA/PVP MNs patch offers a targeted, sustained release treatment for AC, with promising implications for prolonged ocular therapy.

Graphical Abstract
“Safeguarding Children and Young People from Gambling Harms: A Scoping Review of the Grey Literature”
Authors: Davidson Kevin , Davis Christina , Arden-Close Emily , Bolat Elvira , Panourgia Constantina
Published: February 2025

Purpose of Review

This scoping review aims to assess the range and effectiveness of interventions in the UK or relevant to the UK context designed to prevent or reduce gambling-related harms among children and young people (CYP) aged up to 25 years based on grey literature. Grey literature captures practical strategies and innovations not documented in academic literature, offering a comprehensive understanding of existing interventions.

Recent Findings

The review identified fourteen organisations offering interventions primarily focused on prevention and treatment. Educational interventions, delivered through workshops, online courses, and digital resources, were most prevalent. Innovative approaches, such as interactive web-based games, showed higher engagement levels among CYP. However, most interventions lacked rigorous evaluation data, especially concerning CYP’s developmental needs.

The review indicates the importance of multi-systemic approaches involving various stakeholders to mitigate gambling-related harms. It highlights the need for tailored, evidence-based strategies addressing CYP’s vulnerabilities, incorporating robust evaluation methods. Future research should include diverse linguistic and cultural contexts to ensure comprehensive protection for CYP from gambling-related harms.
Assessment of shear capacity of reinforced concrete slender beams using tire steel fiber
Authors: Quadri Ajibola Ibrahim , Kupolati Williams Kehinde , Ackerman Chris , Snyman Jacque , Ndambuki Julius Musyoka
Published: February 2025

The response of reinforced concrete is frequently nonlinear and exhibits quasi-brittle failure consistently throughout their service lives. Several materials and procedures have been used to boost the capacity some of which are often expensive. Waste tire steel fiber was used in this study for environmental sustainability, ensuring economy, efficiency, and elegance as part of the SDG goals. Nine (9) RC slender beams with dimensions 1500 × 250 × 120 mm were cast and loaded at a shear span to depth ratio of 2.44. Slender beams with fiber contents of 0.5 and 1% by volume of concrete and without fiber were considered and subjected to increasing static loading to understand the failure response and post-peak behavior after the beam’s ultimate failure. The dominant failure observed throughout the investigation was shear. The addition of 1% waste fiber increased the shear capacity of the beam without shear reinforcement by 10%, 0.5% waste fiber together with shear reinforcement increased the shear capacity and ductility by 17% and 41% over the shear-reinforced beams without waste fiber, and about 58% greater than in beams without the shear reinforcement and waste fiber. The applicability of FEM analysis under the elastoplastic constitutive model of RC elements replicates consistency with the experiment.
Arabic speech recognition using neural networks: concepts, literature review and challenges
Authors: Haboussi Samia , Oukas Nourredine , Zerrouki Taha , Djettou Halima
Published: February 2025

The ability to recognize and translate human speech has grown in importance. By completing this task, obstacles are removed and smooth communication between people and devices is facilitated. In recent times, researchers have shown a heightened interest in automatic speech recognition (ASR) utilizing artificial intelligence algorithms. These algorithms have yielded superior results in various applications, including speech recognition, making it a highly appealing area of research. However, these impressive outcomes are not consistent for all spoken languages, with Arabic being one of them. The limited availability of suitable datasets hinders the effectiveness of Arabic speech recognition. In this paper, we present an overview of Arabic ASR using neural networks. We survey the state of the art and present several tables for comparison, description, and classification. In addition, this study aims to identify the major challenges in real-world environments. The findings presented in this review shed light on the research trends in the field of Arabic ASR and suggest potential new directions for future research.