bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Can structured integration of BI-RADS criteria by a clinical decision rule reduce the number of unnecessary biopsies in BI-RADS 4 lesions? A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Vatteroni Giulia , Dietzel Matthias , Baltzer Pascal A. T. 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Aim
This systematic review and meta-analysis investigate the added value of structured integration of Breast Imaging Reporting and Data System (BI-RADS) criteria using the Kaiser score (KS) to avoid unnecessary biopsies in BI-RADS 4 lesions.

Material and methods
A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted using predefined criteria. Eligible articles, published in English until May 2024, dealt with KS in the context of BI-RADS 4 MRI. Two reviewers extracted study characteristics, including true positives (TP), false positives (FP), true negatives (TN), and false negatives (FN). Sensitivity, specificity, negative likelihood ratio, and positive likelihood ratio were calculated using bivariate random effects. Fagan nomograms identified the maximum pre-test probability at which post-test probabilities of a negative MRI aligned with the 2% malignancy rate benchmark for downgrading BI-RADS 4 to BI-RADS 3. I² statistics and meta-regression explored sources of heterogeneity. p-values < 0.05 were considered significant.

Results
Seven studies with 1877 lesions (833 malignant, 1044 benign) were included. The average breast cancer prevalence was 47.3%. Pooled sensitivity was 94.3% (95%-CI 88.9%–97.1%), and pooled specificity was 68.1% (95%-CI 56.6%–77.7%) using a random effects model. Overall, 52/833 cases were FNs (6.2%). Fagan nomograms showed that KS could rule out breast cancer in BI-RADS 4 lesions at a pre-test probability of 20.3% for all lesions, 25.4% for masses, and 15.2% for non-mass lesions.

Conclusions
In MRI-assessed BI-RADS 4 lesions, applying structured BI-RADS criteria with the KS reduces unnecessary biopsies by 70% with a 6.2% FN rate. Breast cancer can be ruled out up to pre-test probabilities of 20.3%.

Key Points

Question

What, if any, value is added by structured integration of BI-RADS criteria using the Kaiser Score (KS) to avoid unnecessary biopsies in BI-RADS 4 lesions?

Findings

The structured integration of BI-RADS criteria using the Kaiser Score (KS) reduces unnecessary biopsies in BI-RADS 4 lesions by 70%.

Clinical relevance

The structured approach offered by the Kaiser Score (KS) avoids unnecessary recalls, potentially reducing patient anxiety, lessening the burden on medical personnel, and the need for further imaging and biopsies due to more objective and thus efficient clinical decision-making in evaluating BI-RADS 4 lesions.
Occurrence of ‘soft flesh’ condition induced by Kudoa thyrsites parasite in the Iberian European sardine stock
Authors: Giulietti Lucilla , Hernandez-Milian Gema , Cipriani Paolo , Bao Miguel , Tung Hui-Shan , Hernández Carmen , Levsen Arne 
Published: December 2024

AbstractEuropean sardine Sardina pilchardus is a commercially valuable coastal pelagic fish species. Spain is one of the largest sardine suppliers in Europe and the Iberian stock is of particular significance. Kudoa parasites are known to infect sardines causing the so-called ‘soft flesh’ condition; however, data on the occurrence of ‘soft flesh’ in this sardine stock are limited. This study investigates the occurrence of Kudoa-induced ‘soft flesh’ in the Iberian sardine stock caught in 2023 off the northern Spanish Atlantic coast (Division 8.c). Five hundred specimens were examined for ‘soft flesh’ by manual texture testing and visual inspection 48 h post-catch using standardized procedures. ‘Soft flesh’ was detected in 5.4% (27/500) of the sardines. Microscopic examination of muscle samples revealed the presence of Kudoa thyrsites–like myxospores in all ‘soft flesh’–affected fish, which based on SSU rDNA gene sequence analysis was identified as K. thyrsites. The unsightly appearance of infected fillets represents a substantial food quality issue for the Iberian sardine stock that could reduce marketability and consumer confidence in both local and international markets. This is particularly relevant since larger Iberian sardines, which are highly appreciated by consumers, appear to be the most affected.
Investigations into the residual multipath errors of choke-ring geodetic antennas on GNSS carrier-phase measurements
Authors: Lau Lawrence 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
For about three decades, the Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) has been used for high-precision positioning in scientific and engineering applications, such as deformation monitoring for seismicity and volcano eruption. Such high-precision positioning applications require millimeter-level positioning accuracy. There are many man-made and natural reflective surfaces near the GNSS receiving antennas. GNSS signals can be reflected and then arrive at the GNSS antenna. The multipath effect occurs when the direct signal is mixed with the reflected signal at the GNSS receiver. Choke-ring antennas are designed to mitigate the multipath effect of reflected signals from below the horizontal plane of the GNSS receiving antenna. Moreover, GNSS receiving antennas at network/permanent stations are usually installed on tall pillars or monuments to prevent multipath from “ground” reflected signals. However, part of the reflected signals can still arrive at the GNSS antenna center and cause multipath errors in GNSS measurements. How much can the multipath effect be on the real-time GNSS-measured displacements in studies on seismicity and volcano eruption? This work investigates the below-the-horizon multipath effect of choke-ring antennas on GNSS carrier-phase measurements. Here we show the differenced carrier-phase multipath errors of two commonly used GNSS antennas at the International GNSS Service (IGS) tracking stations can reach 8 mm, the maximum, with the mean and SD in a few millimeters at the 95% confidence level. The findings of this work should be applicable to other choke-ring antennas with similar architecture.
A counterexample and a corrective to the vector extension of the Bellman equations of a Markov decision process
Authors: Mifrani Anas 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Under the expected total reward criterion, the optimal value of a finite-horizon Markov decision process can be determined by solving the Bellman equations. The equations were extended by White to processes with vector rewards. Using a counterexample, we show that the assumptions underlying this extension fail to guarantee its validity. Analysis of the counterexample enables us to articulate a sufficient condition for White’s functional equations to be valid. The condition is shown to be true when the policy space has been refined to include a special class of non-Markovian policies, when the dynamics of the model are deterministic, and when the decision making horizon does not exceed two time steps. The paper demonstrates that in general, the solutions to White’s equations are sets of Pareto efficient policy returns over the refined policy space. Our results are illustrated with an example.
Academic ICTs training in South Africa, Cameroon, and Nigeria. Strategies for ICT training course design
Authors: Cappelli Maria Assunta , Akkari Abdeljalil 
Published: December 2024

AbstractThis study examines the effectiveness of ICT training programmes for academics at selected universities in Africa, specifically in Cameroon, Nigeria, and South Africa. Using a qualitative approach, we conducted semi-structured interviews with five ICT trainers and three trainees to better understand their experiences. The findings highlight both the challenges and the strengths that could be used to improve ICT training and make it more effective and relevant to the participants. Four key themes emerge from our analysis: course objectives and content, teaching strategies, implementation challenges, and expectations/impact of the courses. The objectives of the courses vary considerably—some focus on the practical application of ICT, while others aim to improve the participants’ understanding of ICT systems. Teaching methods also differ, ranging from more traditional teaching approaches to collaborative, project-oriented methods. However, we identify significant challenges, particularly poor internet connectivity and a lack of sufficient technological resources, which affect the learning process. In addition, there is often a divergence between trainer expectations and trainee perceptions of the impact of these courses on their professional development. This study aims to contribute to the definition of strategies to improve the effectiveness of ICT training, in the African context, including Cameroon, Nigeria and South Africa.
Sociodemographics and Digital Health Literacy in Using Wearables for Health Promotion and Disease Prevention: Cross-Sectional Nationwide Survey in Germany
Authors: Pan Chen-Chia , De Santis Karina Karolina , Muellmann Saskia , Hoffmann Stephanie , Spallek Jacob , Barnils Nuria Pedros , Ahrens Wolfgang , Zeeb Hajo , Schüz Benjamin 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Background
Wearable technologies have the potential to support health promotion and disease prevention. However, it remains unclear how the role of social determinants of health (SDoH) and digital determinants of health (DDoH) plays in this context.

Objective
This study investigates differences in sociodemographic factors and digital health literacy between wearable users and non-users, whether the association with wearable use varies across age groups and its potential mediator.

Methods
A cross-sectional nationwide telephone survey was conducted in November 2022 in a panel of adult internet users in Germany. Assessments included self-reported wearable use, sociodemographic factors (sex, age, education, household size and income, and residence region), and digital health literacy (measured with the eHealth Literacy Scale, eHEALS). Associations between wearable use, sociodemographic factors and digital health literacy were analyzed using binomial logistic regression models in the total sample and with age group stratification, with a supplementary mediation analysis examining digital health literacy as a mediator in the relationship between age and wearable use.

Results
Overall, 24% (223/932) of participants (52% male, mean age 55.6 years) reported using wearables for health. Wearable use was lower among participants aged 65 and above, with lower educational attainment, living in 1–2 person households, with below-average household income, and residing in smaller cities or former East Germany. Wearable use prevalence is substantially lower in older age groups (18–40: 36%; 41–64: 26%; 65+:14%). Wearable users reported higher levels of digital health literacy (mean: 30.7, SD = 5) than non-users (mean: 28.3, SD = 6). Stratified analyses indicate that the association between digital health literacy and wearable use varies by age group, with significant positive association observed in older age groups (OR = 1.00, 95% CI: 0.94 to 1.07 in age group 18–40; OR = 1.07, 95% CI: 1.03 to 1.12 in age group 41–64; OR = 1.11, 95% CI: 1.04 to 1.19 in age group 65+). Mediation analysis indicated that digital health literacy partially mediates the relationship between age and wearable use (indirect effect: coefficient = -0.0156, 95% CI: -0.0244 to -0.00791, p <.001).

Conclusions
This study indicates sociodemographic disparities in wearable use among the German population and differences in digital health literacy between wearable users and non-users. A generational divide in wearable use was identified, with older adults being less likely to embrace this technology. This was especially true for older adults with lower digital health literacy. Future public health initiatives employing health technologies should take SDoH and DDoH into consideration to ensure effective and equitable impacts.
Incorporating Spatial Information for Regionalization of Environmental Parameters in Machine Learning Models
Authors: Ohmer Marc , Doll Fabienne , Liesch Tanja 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Machine learning models have gained popularity for environmental variable predictions due to their capacity to capture complex relationships and automate learning. However, incorporating spatial information as covariates into these models remains a challenge, as they may struggle to recognize spatial structures or autocorrelation without explicit training. In this study, we address this challenge by integrating spatial information into a random forest model, enhancing nitrate concentration predictions in groundwater. Using a dataset from 1,550 well locations in Baden-Wuerttemberg, Germany, spanning 2016 through 2019, we consider various environmental covariates including climate data, topography, land cover, soil properties, and hydrology. To incorporate spatial information, we employ eight techniques leveraging spatial coordinates (geographic coordinates, polynomial geographic coordinates, oblique geographic coordinates) or distances (Wendland transformed coordinates, Euclidean distance fields, Euclidean distance matrix, principal component analysis, eigenvector spatial filtering). Results are compared with a baseline model and a univariate ordinary kriging benchmark, evaluated through leave-one-out cross validation, various error metrics, and Moran’s I of residuals. Our findings highlight that integrating spatial information significantly enhances random forest model accuracy in predicting groundwater nitrate concentrations. Distance-based methods, like the Euclidean distance matrix, outperform coordinate-based approaches, albeit with higher computational requirements. Employing a dimension-reduced matrix strikes a balance between performance and accuracy. This study advances groundwater management and demonstrates the effectiveness of machine learning models in environmental studies.
Morphology of the stem group echinoids Lepidocentrus eifelianus and Rhenechinus hopstaetteri from the Devonian of the Eifel region, Germany
Authors: Thompson Jeffrey R. , Nebelsick James H. 
Published: December 2024

AbstractRelatively well-preserved echinoids from Palaeozoic strata are exceptionally rare fossils. New fossil finds can thus have an important impact on our understanding of the morphology, phylogenetic relationships and history of diversification of early sea urchins. The Devonian strata of Germany have long been known to contain echinoids, predominantly through the relatively abundant record of disarticulated plates and spines. In contrast, only select articulated or semi-articulated specimens are recorded. We herein describe new specimens from the Middle and Late Devonian belonging to two Palaeozoic echinoid taxa, Rhenechinus hopstaetteri and Lepidocentrus eifelianus. These specimens are amongst the most-complete known for these two taxa, and provide novel insight into their morphology and stratigraphic range. Additionally, the record of Rhenechinus is the youngest occurrence of an echinocystitid echinoid in the fossil record, indicating that this family ranged from the Silurian (Aeronian or Telychian) to at least the Middle Devonian (Givetian), prior to going extinct. The morphological details provided by the new specimen of L. eifelianus highlights similarities between this species and other Devonian echinoids known from elsewhere in Europe and North America, and suggest that the lepidocentrids were widely dispersed and abundant during the Devonian.
Application of Lignin as Partial Binder Replacement in Magnesium Phosphate Bonded Paper Sludge Composite Products; Board Properties and Economic Analysis
Authors: Barnard Eddie G. , Amiandamhen Stephen O. , Balboni Bruno M. , Görgens Johann F. , Tyhoda Luvuyo 
Published: December 2024

AbstractThe study investigated the feasibility for partial phosphate binder replacement with lignin in phosphate bonded paper sludge composites. A central composite experimental design (CCD) was used to optimise the board manufacturing process, wherein the effect of process temperature, as well as lignin content were investigated with respect to board properties based on the ASTM D1037 standard. Moduli of rupture and elasticity of up to 7.2 MPa and 2.8 GPa respectively in the boards with lignin content of 36–43 wt% and formulation temperatures of 118–133 °C were observed. The phosphate binder input, which bears a huge cost in the process was reduced by up to 49% with lignin incorporation. The effect of pine veneer lamination on the strength properties of the composite boards was investigated. Pine veneer lamination improved mechanical properties, with the moduli of rupture and elasticity increasing from 7.2 to 22.1 MPa (67% increase) and 2.8 to 3.6 GPa (22% increase) respectively. The economic viability of the boards produced was also assessed and the results showed that the required selling price for the composite boards is competitive in the local market for inexpensive construction materials, sold at wholesale prices for between R 158/m2 and R 295/m2, depending on product finishing.
Graphical Abstract
Preliminary experience in using the lateral single-incision laparoscopic totally extraperitoneal approach for inguinal hernia repair
Authors: Zhang Yizhong , Wu Weidong , Chen Junjie , Si Xianke , Li Jian , Wang Tingfeng 
Published: December 2024

AbstractTo evaluate the feasibility, safety, and efficacy of the lateral single-incision laparoscopic totally extraperitoneal (L-SILTEP) approach in patients with inguinal hernia who had contraindications to the midline approach. This study included 58 patients who underwent L-SILTEP. Data on their baseline characteristics and perioperative details were collected. Quality of life and cosmetic satisfaction assessments were performed. Of the evaluated patients, 25.9% had a history of middle and lower abdominal surgery and 10.3% had skin diseases around the umbilicus. The mean surgical duration, blood loss volume, and incision length were 53.5 (± 22.3) min, 7.2 (± 9.7) mL, and 2.0 (± 0.13) cm, respectively. Additionally, 29.3% of patients experienced intraoperative peritoneal rupture, and one patient had epigastric vessel bleeding. The 6-, 24-, and 48-h postoperative pain scores were 3.0 (± 0.6), 1.6 (± 0.6), and 1.1 (± 0.4), respectively. Postoperative complications included seroma (n = 3), hematoma (n = 1), and scrotal edema (n = 1). The surgical incision in the L-SILTEP approach was more aesthetically pleasing than that in previous surgeries. Approximately 17.2%, 8.6%, and 10.3% of patients reported pain, mesh sensation, and movement limitation, respectively. Severe or disabling symptoms were not reported, and there were no cases of 30-day readmissions. Hernia recurrence or incisional hernia was not observed over a mean follow-up duration of 14.6 (± 6.1) months. L-SILTEP can be used for patients with contraindications to the midline approach. Furthermore, it is a safe and effective procedure.
Biome evolution in subfamily Cercidoideae (Leguminosae): a tropical arborescent clade with a relictual depauperate temperate lineage
Authors: Hagelstam-Renshaw Charlotte , Ringelberg Jens J. , Sinou Carole , Cardinal-McTeague Warren , Bruneau Anne 
Published: December 2024

AbstractSome plant lineages remain within the same biome over time (biome conservatism), whereas others seem to adapt more easily to new biomes. The c. 398 species (14 genera) of subfamily Cercidoideae (Leguminosae or Fabaceae) are found in many biomes around the world, particularly in the tropical regions of South America, Asia and Africa, and display a variety of growth forms (small trees, shrubs, lianas and herbaceous perennials). Species distribution maps derived from cleaned occurrence records were compiled and compared with existing biome maps and with the literature to assign species to biomes. Rainforest (144 species), succulent (44 species), savanna (36 species), and temperate (10 species) biomes were found to be important in describing the global distribution of Cercidoideae, with many species occurring in more than one biome. Two phylogenetically isolated species-poor temperate (Cercis) and succulent (Adenolobus) biome lineages are sister to two broadly distributed species-rich tropical clades. Ancestral state reconstructions on a time-calibrated phylogeny suggest biome shifts occurred throughout the evolutionary history of the subfamily, with shifts between the succulent and rainforest biomes, from the rainforest to savanna, from the succulent to savanna biome, and one early occurring shift into (or from) the temperate biome. Of the 26 inferred shifts in biome, three are closely associated with a shift from the ancestral tree/shrub growth form to a liana or herbaceous perennial habit. Only three of the 13 inferred transcontinental dispersal events are associated with biome shifts. Overall, we find that biome shifts tend to occur within the same continent and that dispersals to new continents tend to occur within the same biome, but that nonetheless the biome-conserved and biogeographically structured Cercidoideae have been able to adapt to different environments through time.
Evaluating the quality of technology integration across seven European countries with the ICAP Technology Scale
Authors: Maričić Mirjana , Anđić Branko , Mumcu Filiz , Rokos Lukáš , Vondruška Jan , Weinhandl Robert , Lavicza Zsolt , Špernjak Andreja 
Published: December 2024

AbstractInteractive, constructive, active and passive technology scale (ICAP-TS) is a relatively new developed instrument representing an essential literature need. Through this cross-cultural study, we strived to accomplish a three-fold aim. Firstly, we aspired to verify the scale's construct validity and reliability on a large sample of teachers across seven European countries. Secondly, we aimed to evaluate the quality of technology integration (TI) on this heterogeneous sample with the ICAP-TS to explore for which learning activities teachers use technologies, within which ICAP learning/engaging modes and how often. Thirdly, we strived to examine relationships between the different technology types (TT) and TI in ICAP learning modes. The research involved 2277 primary and lower secondary school teachers. Confirmatory factor analysis revealed that the internal structure of ICAP-TS corresponds well to the overall sample, but for some countries, the model fit should be further refined. Exploratory factor analysis extracted two basic components of TT—passive and active. On a general level teachers most often integrate technology into passive learning mode with the usage of passive TT, but if these results are observed within each country separately, this is not the case everywhere. Passive TT predicts TI into passive, active, and constructive modes more, while active TT predicts TI into interactive, constructive and active modes. This study has several implications. For example future research topics can include reviewing, revising, or adding new items to the ICAP-TS related to ICAP theory to improve its validity. Other recommendations are stated in the discussion.