bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Dysphagia After Total Laryngectomy: An Exploratory Study and Clinical Phase II Rehabilitation Trial with the Novel Swallowing Exercise Aid (SEA 2.0)
Authors: Neijman Marise , Hilgers Frans , van den Brekel Michiel , van Son Rob , Stuiver Martijn , van der Molen Lisette 
Published: April 2024

AbstractThe aims of this exploratory study and clinical phase II trial were to assess the specific nature and extent of dysphagia in laryngectomized patients with self-reported dysphagia, and its rehabilitation potential using the novel Swallowing Exercise Aid (SEA 2.0). Twenty laryngectomized patients participated in a six-week exercise program with the SEA 2.0. Exercises consisted of Chin Tuck Against Resistance (CTAR), Jaw Opening Against Resistance (JOAR), and Effortful Swallow Against Resistance, conducted three times per day. Swallowing was assessed at baseline (T0), six (T1) and 14 (T2) weeks, consisting of patient-reported outcomes, BMI, videofluoroscopy, swallowing capacity, and muscle strength measurements. Dysphagia significantly impacts quality of life, with impaired swallowing speed and bolus propulsion as main reported issues. Subjective dysphagia parameters, swallowing capacity, and pharyngeal residue clearance were reduced, but BMI was normal. Muscle and tongue strength were within normal ranges. All participants managed to use the SEA 2.0. Adherence was 95%. At T1, subjective swallowing parameters (MDADI and EAT-10) showed clinically relevant improvements. Objectively, CTAR and JOAR strength increased with 27.4 and 20.1 Newton, respectively. Also, swallowing capacity (from 2.4 g/s to 3.8 g/s) and pharyngeal residue clearance improved. At T2, results were slightly lower than at T1, but still better than at baseline. Dysphagia in laryngectomized patients affects quality of life, but swallowing can be improved with a six-week rehabilitation program using the novel SEA 2.0. Adherence was excellent and several subjective and objective swallowing parameters improved.
Human gut microbiome, diet, and mental disorders
Authors: Borrego-Ruiz Alejandro , Borrego Juan J. 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Diet is one of the most important external factor shaping the composition and metabolic activities of the gut microbiome. The gut microbiome plays a crucial role in host health, including immune system development, nutrients metabolism, and the synthesis of bioactive molecules. In addition, the gut microbiome has been described as critical for the development of several mental disorders. Nutritional psychiatry is an emerging field of research that may provide a link between diet, microbial function, and brain health. In this study, we have reviewed the influence of different diet types, such as Western, Mediterranean, vegetarian, and ketogenic, on the gut microbiota composition and function, and their implication in various neuropsychiatric and psychological disorders.
Abundance estimation of plains zebras via search–encounter sampling
Authors: Marshal Jason P. , Abadi Fitsum 
Published: April 2024

AbstractSpatial capture–recapture (SCR) using search–encounter methods estimate population abundance from encounters of individually recognisable animals along an a priori-designated search path. We applied search–encounter SCR methods and photographic sampling to estimate the abundance of plains zebras (Equus quagga) at Telperion and Ezemvelo nature reserves, South Africa. We analysed encounter data by comparing four hazard-function models for the detection process. The abundance estimate under three models was just above 1000 animals (95% credible intervals c. 960, 1220) versus 811 (719, 917) for the remaining model. The former estimates were broadly similar to aerial counts conducted around the same time. Standard deviation in locations around individual activity centres ($$\sigma _{move}$$

σ

move

) was c. 0.8 km, with little difference between models. In situations where structured surveys are not possible, the approach presented here has the potential to estimate abundance from opportunistic animal encounters (e.g. generated via citizen science schemes) within an SCR framework.
Formulation, Implementation and Validation of a 1D Boundary Layer Inflow Scheme for the QUIC Modeling System
Authors: Giani Paolo , Lamer Katia , Crippa Paola , Brown Michael J. 
Published: April 2024

AbstractRecent studies have highlighted the importance of accurate meteorological conditions for urban transport and dispersion calculations. In this work, we present a novel scheme to compute the meteorological input in the Quick Urban & Industrial Complex () diagnostic urban wind solver to improve the characterization of upstream wind veer and shear in the Atmospheric Boundary Layer (ABL). The new formulation is based on a coupled set of Ordinary Differential Equations (ODEs) derived from the Reynolds Averaged Navier–Stokes (RANS) equations, and is fast to compute. Building upon recent progress in modeling the idealized ABL, we include effects from surface roughness, turbulent stress, Coriolis force, buoyancy and baroclinicity. We verify the performance of the new scheme with canonical Large Eddy Simulation (LES) tests with the GPU-accelerated FastEddy"Equation missing" solver in neutral, stable, unstable and baroclinic conditions with different surface roughness. Furthermore, we evaluate QUIC calculations with and without the new inflow scheme with real data from the Urban Threat Dispersion (UTD) field experiment, which includes Lidar-based wind measurements as well as concentration observations from multiple outdoor releases of a non-reactive tracer in downtown New York City. Compared to previous inflow capabilities that were limited to a constant wind direction with height, we show that the new scheme can model wind veer in the ABL and enhance the prediction of the surface cross-isobaric angle, improving evaluation statistics of simulated concentrations paired in time and space with UTD measurements.
First-line therapy with palbociclib in patients with advanced HR+/HER2− breast cancer: The real-life study PALBOSPAIN
Authors: Martínez-Jañez N. , Ezquerra M. Bellet , Manso Sanchez L. M. , Carrasco F. Henao , Torres A. Anton , Morales S. , Ortega P. Tolosa , Gil V. L. Obadia , Sampedro T. , Conejero R. Andrés , Calvo-Martinez L. , Galve-Calvo E. , López R. , de la Pena F. Ayala , Lopez-Tarruella S. , de Araguiz B. A. Hernando Fernandez , Ruiz L. Boronat , Cardenas T. Martos , Chacon J. I. , Antón F. Moreno 
Published: April 2024

AbstractPurposeTo evaluate the efficacy and safety of first-line therapy with palbociclib in a Spanish cohort treated after palbociclib approval.MethodsPALBOSPAIN is an observational, retrospective, multicenter study evaluating real-world patterns and outcomes with 1 L palbociclib in men and women (any menopausal status) with advanced HR+/HER2– BC diagnosed between November 2017 and November 2019. The primary endpoint was real-world progression-free survival (rw-PFS). Secondary endpoints included overall survival (OS), the real-world response rate (rw-RR), the clinical benefit rate, palbociclib dose reduction, and safety.ResultsA total of 762 patients were included. The median rw-PFS and OS were 24 months (95% CI 21–27) and 42 months (40-not estimable [NE]) in the whole population, respectively. By cohort, the median rw-PFS and OS were as follows: 28 (95% CI 23–39) and 44 (95% CI 38-NE) months in patients withde novometastatic disease, 13 (95% CI 11–17) and 36 months (95% CI 31–41) in patients who experienced relapse < 12 months after the end of ET, and 31 months (95% CI 26–37) and not reached (NR) in patients who experienced relapse > 12 months after the end of ET. rw-PFS and OS were longer in patients with oligometastasis and only one metastatic site and those with non-visceral disease. The most frequent hematologic toxicity was neutropenia (72%; grade ≥ 3: 52.5%), and the most common non-hematologic adverse event was asthenia (38%).ConclusionThese findings, consistent with those from clinical trials, support use of palbociclib plus ET as 1 L for advanced BC in the real-world setting, including pre-menopausal women and men.Trial registration numberNCT04874025 (PALBOSPAIN). Date of registration: 04/30/2021 retrospectively registered.
Mobile learning supported science teaching application: Electric charges and electric energy
Authors: Karatay Salih Kubilay , Bakirci Hasan , Bülbül Sinan 
Published: April 2024

AbstractThe aim of this study is to examine the effect of mobile learning supported science teaching on eighth grade students' Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics fields and Information Technologies Self-Efficacy and to determine students' views on this process. For this purpose, a quasi-experimental design with pre-test post-test control group was used in the study. The study group consisted of a total of 45 students, 25 in the experimental group where the mobile learning supported 5E learning model was applied and 20 in the control group where the 5E learning model was applied. The applications in the experimental and control groups took place in a total of four weeks. Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics Career Interest Survey, Information and Communication Technologies Self-Efficacy Perception Scale and semi-structured interview form were used as data collection tools in the study. As a result of the analysis of the data obtained; it was determined that mobile-assisted science teaching had a positive effect on eighth grade students' STEM interests and self-efficacy levels. In addition, students stated that mobile-assisted science teaching increased the retention of knowledge, facilitated understanding of the lesson, and was instructive and fun. Depending on the results obtained from the research, it was suggested that mobile assisted science teaching should be used in different units of the Science course in order to see the effect of mobile assisted science teaching on different variables more clearly.
How attitudes and purchases differ between also-online versus offline-only grocery shoppers in online and offline grocery shopping
Authors: Brüggemann Philipp , Pauwels Koen 
Published: April 2024

AbstractThe surge in online grocery shopping amid the COVID-19 pandemic has significantly altered the balance between offline and online purchases, influencing consumer attitudes toward these channels. Given the anticipated continued growth of online grocery shopping in the coming years, research on this topic becomes increasingly crucial for retailers, manufacturers, and consumers. Particularly, brand managers and retailers find themselves uncertain about the implications for their consumer segments and products, including national versus private label brands, organic products, and fair-trade products. Against this backdrop, our study delves into consumer characteristics and purchase behavior to explore the distinctions between offline-only and also-online grocery shoppers. Additionally, we examine whether consumer behavior varies across offline and online channels. Specifically, we analyze extensive household panel data encompassing 4,142,485 purchases and diverse consumer characteristics (such as demographics and attitudes) from an average of 21,428 households spanning the years 2016–2020. It is noteworthy that also-online shoppers, despite their preference for convenience, tend to be younger, reside in larger cities, and exhibit more positive attitudes toward buying local and environmental responsibilities. These consumers, characterized by lower price consciousness and higher brand preferences, display a greater inclination toward national brands online compared to offline. Furthermore, they express more favorable attitudes toward organic and fair-trade products and exhibit relatively higher purchasing of these items. Our extensive empirical analyses reveal that these cross-sectional differences are attributable, in part, to demand-driven factors and, in part, to supply-side effects. Through this research, we provide valuable insights to brand managers, retailers, and researchers, facilitating a better understanding of the evolving retail landscape, particularly within the dynamic realm of online grocery shopping.
Endocrine-disrupting chemical concentrations in follicular fluid and follicular reproductive hormone levels
Authors: Hoffmann-Dishon Nathalie , Barnett-Itzhaki Zohar , Zalko Daniel , Hemi Rina , Farzam Nahid , Hauser Russ , Racowsky Catherine , Baccarelli Andrea A. , Machtinger Ronit 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Purpose
To determine correlations between chemicals in follicular fluid (FF) and follicular reproductive hormone levels.

Methods
The analysis was part of a larger cohort study to determine associations between exposure to EDCs and in vitro fertilization (IVF) outcomes. FF was aspirated from a single leading follicle per participant. Demographics and data on exposure to EDCs were self-reported by the participants using a questionnaire. The concentrations of estradiol (E2), progesterone (PG), anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH), and inhibin B, as well as that of 12 phthalate metabolites and 12 phenolic chemicals were measured in each FF sample. Multivariate linear regression model was used to identify the drivers of hormone levels based on participant’s age, BMI, smoking status, and chemical exposure for the monitored chemicals detected in more than 50% of the samples. Benjamini–Hochberg false discovery rate (FDR) correction was applied on the resulting p values (q value).

Results
FF samples were obtained from 72 women (mean age 30.9 years). Most of the phthalates and phenolic substances monitored (21/24, 88%) were identified in FF. Ten compounds (7 phthalate metabolites, 3 phenols) were found in more than 50% of samples. In addition, there were positive associations between E2 levels and mono-n-butyl phthalate (MnBP) (beta = 0.01) and mono-isobutyl phthalate (MiBP) (beta = 0.03) levels (q value < 0.05).

Conclusion
Higher concentrations of several phthalate metabolites, present among others in personal care products, were associated with increased E2 levels in FF. The results emphasize the need to further investigate the mechanisms of action of such EDCs on hormonal cyclicity and fertility in women.
Design of a flow modulation device to facilitate individualized ventilation in a shared ventilator setup
Authors: Stiers Michiel , Vercauteren Jan , Schepens Tom , Mergeay Matthias , Janssen Luc , Hoogmartens Olivier , Neyrinck Arne , Marinus Benoît G. , Sabbe Marc 
Published: April 2024

AbstractThis study aims to resolve the unmet need for ventilator surge capacity by developing a prototype device that can alter patient-specific flow in a shared ventilator setup. The device is designed to deliver a predictable tidal volume (VT), requiring minimal additional monitoring and workload. The prototyped device was tested in an in vitro bench setup for its performance against the intended use and design criteria. The ventilation parameters: VT and airway pressures, and ventilation profiles: pressure, flow and volume were measured for different ventilator and device settings for a healthy and ARDS simulated lung pathology. We obtained VTs with a linear correlation with valve openings from 10 to 100% across set inspiratory pressures (IPs) of 20 to 30 cmH2O. Airway pressure varied with valve opening and lung elastance but did not exceed set IPs. Performance was consistent in both healthy and ARDS-simulated lung conditions. The ventilation profile diverged from traditional pressure-controlled profiles. We present the design a flow modulator to titrate VTs in a shared ventilator setup. Application of the flow modulator resulted in a characteristic flow profile that differs from pressure- or volume controlled ventilation. The development of the flow modulator enables further validation of the Individualized Shared Ventilation (ISV) technology with individualization of delivered VTs and the development of a clinical protocol facilitating its clinical use during a ventilator surge capacity problem.
Maximal cardiopulmonary exercise testing in glioblastoma patients undergoing chemotherapy: assessment of feasibility, safety, and physical fitness status
Authors: Jost Johanna , Völker Klaus , Brandt Ralf , Stummer Walter , Urbschat Steffi , Ketter Ralf , Wiewrodt Dorothee , Wiewrodt Rainer ,   for the MMH Trial Investigators, Kloss Maren , Hansel Nora , Früchte Irmtraud , Julian Ross , Thorwesten Lothar , Gerß Joachim , Faldum Andreas , Oertel Joachim , Lepper Philipp , Jetschke Kathleen , Rekowski Sylvia , Lucas Carolin Weiss , Kochs Sophia , Baumann Freerk 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Purpose
Maximal cardiopulmonary exercise testing (max. CPET) provides the most accurate measurement of cardiorespiratory fitness. However, glioblastoma (GBM) patients often undergo less intensive tests, e.g., 6-min walk test or self-rating scales. This study aims to demonstrate feasibility and safety of max. CPET in GBM patients, concurrently evaluating their physical fitness status.

Methods
Newly diagnosed GBM patients undergoing adjuvant chemotherapy were offered participation in an exercise program. At baseline, max. CPET assessed cardiorespiratory fitness including peak oxygen consumption (VO2peak), peak workload, and physical work capacity (PWC) at 75% of age-adjusted maximal heart rate (HR). Criteria for peak workload were predefined based on threshold values in HR, respiratory quotient, respiratory equivalent, lactate, and rate of perceived effort. Data were compared to normative values. Adverse events were categorized according to standardized international criteria. Further, self-reported exercise data pre- and post-diagnosis were gathered.

Results
All 36 patients (median-aged 60; 21 men) met the predefined criteria for peak workload. Mean absolute VO2peak was 1750 ± 529 ml/min, peak workload averaged 130 ± 43 W, and mean PWC was 0.99 ± 0.38 W/kg BW, all clinically meaningful lower than age- and sex-predicted normative values (87%, 79%, 90%, resp.). Only once (3%) a minor, transient side effect occurred (post-test dizziness, no intervention needed). Self-reported exercise decreased from 15.8 MET-h/week pre-diagnosis to 7.2 MET-h/week post-diagnosis.

Conclusion
Max. CPET in this well-defined population proved feasible and safe. GBM patients exhibit reduced cardiorespiratory fitness, indicating the need for tailored exercise to enhance health and quality of life. CPET could be essential in establishing precise exercise guidelines.
Resolving the evolutionary paradox of consciousness
Authors: Zietsch Brendan P. 
Published: April 2024

AbstractEvolutionary fitness threats and rewards are associated with subjectively unpleasant and pleasant sensations, respectively. Initially, these correlations appear explainable via adaptation by natural selection. But here I analyse the major metaphysical perspectives on consciousness – physicalism, dualism, and panpsychism – and conclude that none help to understand the adaptive-seeming correlations via adaptation. I also argue that a recently proposed explanation, the phenomenal powers view, has major problems that mean it cannot explain the adaptive-seeming correlations via adaptation either. So the mystery – call it the evolutionary paradox of consciousness – remains. Some have used this mystery to argue for non-naturalistic (e.g. theistic) explanations. But I propose a naturalistic, non-adaptive explanation of the adaptive-seeming correlations: namely, ‘sensational associative learning’ during development. In this perspective, pairing of particular sensations with unconditioned stimuli – fitness rewards or threats – cause the sensations themselves to come to be interpreted as good or bad, respectively. Sensations, like colours, that are not reliably paired with either fitness rewards or threats remain largely unvalenced. Sensational associative learning also provides explanations for adaptive-seeming structural aspects of sensations, such as the observation that sounds of different pitch are experienced as ordinal in correspondence to their wavelengths while the same is not true of colours of different hue. The sensational associative learning perspective appears compatible with physicalism, panpsychism, and dualism (though not epiphenomenalism).
Mind the gap: noncausal explanations of dual properties
Authors: Bangu Sorin 
Published: April 2024

AbstractI identify and characterize a type of noncausal explanation in physics. I first introduce a distinction, between the physical properties of a system, and the representational properties of the mathematical expressions of the system’s physical properties. Then I introduce a novel kind of property, which I shall call a dual property. This is a special kind of representational property, one for which there is an interpretation as a physical property. It is these dual properties that, I claim, are amenable to noncausal (mathematical, in fact) explanations. I discuss a typical example of such a dual property, and an example of an explanation as to why that dual property holds (the explanation of the quantization of the linear momentum).
Structural topic modeling as a mixed methods research design: a study on employer size and labor market outcomes for vulnerable groups
Authors: Ulstein Julie 
Published: April 2024

AbstractObtaining and maintaining steady employment can be challenging for people from vulnerable groups. Previous research has focused on the relationship between employer size and employment outcomes for these groups, but the findings have been inconsistent. To clarify this relationship, the current study uses structural topic modeling, a mixed methods research design, to disclose and explain factors behind the association between employer size and labor market outcomes for people from vulnerable groups. The data consist of qualitative interview transcripts concerning the hiring and inclusion of people from vulnerable groups. These were quantitized and analyzed using structural topic modeling. The goals were to investigate topical content and prevalence according to employer size, to provide a comprehensive guide for model estimation and interpretation, and to highlight the wide applicability of this method in social science research. Model estimation resulted in a model with five topics: training, practicalities of the inclusion processes, recruitment, contexts of inclusion, and work demands. The analysis revealed that topical prevalence differed between employers according to size. Thus, these estimated topics can provide evidence as to why the association between employer size and labor market outcomes for vulnerable groups varies across studies––different employers highlight different aspects of work inclusion. The article further demonstrates the strengths and limitations of using structural topic modeling as a mixed methods research design.
The derivative-based approach to nonlinear mediation models: insights and applications
Authors: Di Maria Chiara , Rubino Claudio , Albano Alessandro 
Published: April 2024

AbstractTraditional mediation analysis has been developed in the context of linear models, enabling the estimation of indirect effects through the product of regression coefficients. However, in the presence of nonlinearities, defining and estimating indirect effects becomes more challenging. While nonlinear mediation models are relatively easy to address in the counterfactual-based framework, very few generalizations to nonlinear associational settings have been proposed. One of the most intuitive is the derivative-based approach that, however, seems not to be widely spread among scholars. In this paper, we deepen such an approach to nonlinear mediation models, clarifying and proposing solutions to some issues which have not been addressed by the previous literature. Specifically, we discussed discrete exposures, binary mediators and extensions of this approach to more complex settings like the multilevel one. We also propose to estimate confidence intervals for the indirect effect within a Bayesian framework and compare its performance to that of other approaches in the literature through a simulation study. Finally, a real data application is presented.