Collaborative Networks Research Articles

Electroencephalography-Based Brain-Computer Interfaces in Rehabilitation: A Bibliometric Analysis (2013–2023)

EEG-based Brain-Computer Interfaces (BCIs) have gained significant attention in rehabilitation due to their non-invasive, accessible ability to capture brain activity and restore neurological functions in patients with conditions such as stroke and spinal cord injuries. This study offers a comprehensive bibliometric analysis of global EEG-based BCI research in rehabilitation from 2013 to 2023. It focuses on primary research and review articles addressing technological innovations, effectiveness, and system advancements in clinical rehabilitation. Data were sourced from databases like Web of Science, and bibliometric tools (bibliometrix R) were used to analyze publication trends, geographic distribution, keyword co-occurrences, and collaboration networks. The results reveal a rapid increase in EEG-BCI research, peaking in 2022, with a primary focus on motor and sensory rehabilitation. EEG remains the most commonly used method, with significant contributions from Asia, Europe, and North America. Additionally, there is growing interest in applying BCIs to mental health, as well as integrating artificial intelligence (AI), particularly machine learning, to enhance system accuracy and adaptability. However, challenges remain, such as system inefficiencies and slow learning curves. These could be addressed by incorporating multi-modal approaches and advanced neuroimaging technologies. Further research is needed to validate the applicability of EEG-BCI advancements in both cognitive and motor rehabilitation, especially considering the high global prevalence of cerebrovascular diseases. To advance the field, expanding global participation, particularly in underrepresented regions like Latin America, is essential. Improving system efficiency through multi-modal approaches and AI integration is also critical. Ethical considerations, including data privacy, transparency, and equitable access to BCI technologies, must be prioritized to ensure the inclusive development and use of these technologies across diverse socioeconomic groups.

A global overview of the use of cone beam computed tomography in dentistry: a bibliometric review focusing on paediatric patients

Background Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) has improved diagnosis and treatment planning in paediatric dentistry, but no bibliometric studies have examined the research landscape. This study provides an overview of CBCT in paediatric dentistry. Methods A bibliometric review was conducted using articles from the Web of Science database up to February 2024. Conference papers and editorials were excluded. Data extracted included citation counts, publication dates, journals, impact factors, study designs, topics, geographical and institutional affiliations, authors, and keywords. Collaborative networks were visualised using VOSviewer, and Spearman’s correlation assessed the relationship between citation counts and other variables. Results The review analysed 517 articles, with the most cited receiving 557 citations. Publication dates ranged from 2005 to 2024, with a peak in 2023. Observational studies were the most common, particularly on maxillary expansion. The American Journal of Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics was the most cited journal, and the USA was a major contributor. Jacobs R authored the most articles (n=19), and the University of Alberta led in institutional output. Spearman’s correlation showed a weak positive correlation between citation count and journal impact factor (rho=0.272, p<0.001) and a strong negative correlation with publication year (rho=-0.762, p<0.001). Conclusions This bibliometric review provides an overview of the use of CBCT in paediatric dentistry, particularly in maxillary expansion. The findings suggest that more specific imaging protocols may improve safety and clinical outcomes, and that further investigation of long-term outcomes may provide valuable insights.

How do personality traits affect the formation of friendship and preference-for-collaboration networks?

Intuitively, personality traits may shape friendships differently from academic connections, potentially influencing social support development. Yet, this remains understudied, while it is crucial for student’s wellbeing. Therefore, this study investigates how the personality traits of the Five-Factor Model interact with the role friendships and preferred collaboration relationships. In a sample of 95 university students, socio-centric data were collected with questionnaires on personality traits and longitudinally on networks of friendship and preferences for collaboration networks. Utilizing stochastic actor-oriented models in RSiena, we showed that students more open to new experiences established more friendships, preferred more collaborations with their peers, and were also more popular in both networks than students less open-to-new-experiences. Students scoring higher on agreeableness were less likely to connect to their peers in both networks, whereas higher-achieving students were more likely to establish peer relationships in both networks. Furthermore, friends were preferred for collaboration (and vice versa), indicating an overlap. This study points to the importance of personality traits and achievement when students integrate into their social and academic environment.

Bibliometric Mapping of Dating Violence in Scopus and Web of Science

Introduction: Dating violence is a complex and multifaceted problem that affects people around the world. The objective was to evaluate the scientific production on dating violence in the Scopus and Web Of Science databases. Method: Scoping review was used as a method to analyze manuscripts in indexed journals. The search equations were designed with Boolean terms and operators. For the analysis of co-occurrences between authors and keywords, the Biblioshyni package was used. Results: The study covered the last 10 years, included 3077 publications from 735 journals, with a citation rate of 20.65 per document. 10499 authors participated, 92.95% of these were original articles and the most prominent authors are Miller E., Gibbs A., Decker M.R., and Silverman J.G., with the United States leading in production (49.89%). The Journal of Interpersonal Violence was the most prolific journal with 403 papers. Important thematic clusters were identified, such as violence in young couples, risk factors and interpersonal relationships, and aggression, in addition, an evolution from the approach of human and sexual relationships and violence in women was evidenced. The collaborative network showed strong connections between key authors such as Silverman, Miller, McCauley, Campbell, Stockman, Jewkes, and Gibbs. Conclusions: International collaboration and the concentration of studies in high-impact journals, mainly in the United States, underscore the need for multidisciplinary and culturally adapted approaches to effectively address and prevent dating violence. Received: 11 July 2024 / Accepted: 1 November 2024 / Published: 05 November 2024

Collaborative Governance Networks Supporting Sustainable Ecotourism: A Case Study of Gili Iyang Island, Indonesia

The development of sustainable ecotourism on Gili Iyang Island, known for its high oxygen levels and unique local culture, requires collaboration among diverse stakeholders through effective governance networks. This study investigates the roles and contributions of key stakeholders—including the Sumenep District Tourism, Culture, Youth, and Sports Office (Dinas Pariwisata, Kebudayaan, Pemuda, dan Olahraga Kabupaten Sumenep or Disparbudpora), the Andang Taruna Tourism Awareness Group (Kelompok Sadar Wisata Andang Taruna or Pokdarwis), village governments, and local communities—in developing ecotourism on Gili Iyang Island, Indonesia. Using a qualitative case study approach, data were collected through in-depth interviews, observations, and document analysis. Findings show that governance networks are crucial in enhancing community empowerment, building local capacity, and improving infrastructure to support ecotourism. Nevertheless, challenges remain, including limited resources, conflicts between villages, and minimal private-sector engagement. Strengthening Pokdarwis’ managerial capacity, fostering inter-community synergies, and attracting private sector involvement are identified as essential strategies to ensure sustainable ecotourism. This research contributes to the broader literature on collaborative governance in remote island ecotourism, offering practical insights for policymakers and stakeholders aiming to create resilient, community-driven tourism initiatives that can be adapted to similar island settings.

Comparison of safety profile in patients with atopic dermatitis treated with dupilumab or conventional systemic treatment: real world data from the US network

Background Safety of dupilumab in atopic dermatitis (AD) was investigated in randomized controlled trials (RCT). However, head-to-head trials comparing with conventional systemic drugs are lacking and large real-world data on the long-term safety profile as compared are scarce. Objective To compare long-term safety profile of dupilumab with conventional systemic drugs used in the management of moderate to severe AD. Methods Data from electronic health records of AD patients treated with either dupilumab, azathioprine, Cyclosporine A, mycophenolate mofetil, methotrexate, or oral glucocorticoids were retrieved from the TriNetX US Collaborative Network. Risks of adverse events and new onset of type-2-inflammatory diseases within 5 years after treatment initiation was investigated. Results 5 propensity-matched cohorts, up to 18,708 individuals per cohort, were created. Dupilumab treatment displayed reduced risk for diseases of the circulatory, the upper respiratory, and the musculoskeletal system, infections, and type 2 diseases as compared to all other treatment options. In contrast risk for conjunctivitis was increased in dupilumab treated patients as compared to mycophenolate mofetil and methotrexate. Conclusion Here presented data indicates that treatment with dupilumab for AD has reduced risk for adverse effects of conventional systemic drugs and thus might be safer. Obtained data should be verified in prospective studies.

Energy Storage in Carbon Fiber-Based Batteries: Trends and Future Perspectives

Carbon fiber-based batteries, integrating energy storage with structural functionality, are emerging as a key innovation in the transition toward energy sustainability. Offering significant potential for lighter and more efficient designs, these advanced battery systems are increasingly gaining ground. Through a bibliometric analysis of scientific literature, the study identifies three primary research areas: (i) the development of anodes for lithium-ion batteries, tackling challenges such as dendrite formation and performance degradation; (ii) the creation of new carbon fiber-based cathodes with coatings of LiFePO4, LiCoO2, or other nanoparticles, alongside efforts to develop cobalt-free alternatives; and (iii) the advancement of solid electrolytes that achieve a balance between ionic conductivity and mechanical strength. These advancements position carbon fiber-based batteries as promising solutions for seamless integration into various structural applications. The analysis of publication trends, citation patterns, and collaboration networks provides critical insights into the ongoing technological developments, current research challenges, and emerging trends in this field. Moreover, the study highlights potential research directions, underscoring the importance of continuous innovation to fully realize the potential of carbon fiber-based energy storage technologies.

Influence and collaboration in library and information science research: A university perspective

Objective. The objective of this study was to examine the influence and collaboration patterns within library and information science (LIS) research, with a particular focus on the contributions of universities over time. Design/Methodology/Approach. This study used bibliometrics and LIS network analysis to examine 14,517 articles indexed in Scopus from 1954 to 2023. The Bibliometrix R-package was used to identify publication trends, influential institutions, authors, and collaboration networks in the LIS field. Findings. The key findings indicated that Wuhan University was the foremost institution in LIS research, with notable contributions from Chinese scholars who were identified as the most influential authors in the field. The keywords “information science” and “information retrieval” emerged as common thematic areas, reflecting core research interests. The content analysis also revealed that LIS research had robust connections with fields such as physics, computer science, and information technology, underscoring an interdisciplinary trend. Originality/Value. This study offered original insights into the evolving landscape of LIS research, identifying both leadership in academic output and potential gaps in current research coverage. It underscored the necessity for future research to expand the scope of its database and refine keyword selection for more comprehensive representation. The findings contributed to the strategic development of LIS research and the fostering of international collaboration.

Controls on spatial variation in porewater methane concentrations across United States tidal wetlands

Tidal wetlands can be a substantial sink of greenhouse gases, which can be offset by variable methane (CH4) emissions under certain environmental conditions and anthropogenic interventions. Land managers and policymakers need maps of tidal wetland CH4 properties to make restoration decisions and inventory greenhouse gases. However, there is a mismatch in spatial scale between point-based sampling of porewater CH4 concentration and its predictors, and the coarser resolution mapping products used to upscale these data. We sampled porewater CH4 concentrations, salinity, sulfate (SO42−), ammonium (NH4+), and total Fe using a spatially stratified sampling at 27 tidal wetlands in the United States. We measured porewater CH4 concentrations across four orders of magnitude (0.05 to 852.9 μM). The relative contribution of spatial scale to variance in CH4 was highest between- and within-sites. Porewater CH4 concentration was best explained by SO42− concentration with segmented linear regression (p < 0.01, R2 = 0.54) indicating lesser sensitivity of CH4 to SO42− below 0.62 mM SO42−. Salinity was a significant proxy for CH4 concentration, because it was highly correlated with SO42− (p < 0.01, R2 = 0.909). However, salinity was less predictive of CH4 with segmented linear regression (p < 0.01, R2 = 0.319) relative to SO42−. Neither NH4+, total Fe, nor relative tidal elevation correlated significantly with porewater CH4; however, NH4+ was positively and significantly correlated with SO42− after detrending CH4 for its relationship with SO42− (p < 0.01, R2 = 0.194). Future sampling should focus on within- and between-site environmental gradients to accurately map CH4 variation. Mapping salinity at sub-watershed scales has some potential for mapping SO42−, and by proxy, constraining spatial variation in porewater CH4 concentrations. Additional work is needed to explain site-level deviations from the salinity-sulfate relationship and elucidate other predictors of methanogenesis. This work demonstrates a unique approach to remote team science and the potential to strengthen collaborative research networks.

How do network embeddedness and knowledge stock influence collaboration dynamics? Evidence from patents

Science, technology, and innovation are becoming increasingly collaborative, prompting concerted efforts to understand and measure the factors influencing these collaborations. This study aims to explore the driving factors and underlying mechanisms of collaboration dynamics based on patent data. Multilayer longitudinal networks are constructed to scrutinize interactions among organizations as well as the embedding of their knowledge elements in the network fabric. We then analyze the structures and characteristics of collaboration and knowledge networks from global and local perspectives, in which process topological indicators and graphlets are used to feature each organization's collaborative patterns and knowledge stock. Knowledge elements are extracted to present the core concepts of patents, overcoming the limitations of predefined categorizations, such as IPC, when representing technological content and context. By performing a longitudinal analysis using a stochastic actor-oriented model, we integrate network structures, node characteristics, and different dimensions of proximity to model collaboration dynamics and reveal the driving factors behind them. An empirical study in the field of lithography finds that organizations with a larger number of partners or a higher number of annular graphlets in their collaboration networks are less likely to collaborate with others. If an assignee has a more extensive range of knowledge elements and demonstrates a higher capability for knowledge combination, or if its local knowledge network exhibits weaker connectivity, its propensity to seek new collaborators increases. Both cognitive and organizational proximity play important roles in fostering collaboration.

Mapping the Knowledge Management Education and Professional Landscape in Brazil

Abstract: The article shows how the knowledge management area has developed in Brazil, in terms of academic and scientific foundations as well as organizational support and collaboration networks in the extra-academic context. In this way, it documents the existence of a corpus of reference sources already available for those interested in the subject as well as a deepening the understanding of knowledge management at the master’s and doctoral program levels.

Vitiligo is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases: a large-scale, propensity-matched, US-based retrospective study

Vitiligo is an autoimmune disease, characterized by specific destruction of melanocytes. While associations with numerous comorbid conditions, which potentially increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases have been described, data on the risk for cardiovascular disease is inconclusive. To address this relevant knowledge gap, this study aims to identify the risk of cardiovascular disease in vitiligo. The US Collaborative Network was accessed using the TriNetX platform, allowing retrospective data retrieval from electronic health records (EHRs) from 57 US based health care organizations (HCOs). Patients with vitiligo and controls were identified by their respective ICD10 codes. Risk of onset of several cardiovascular diseases was determined in patients within 15 years after diagnoses. A total of 94 diagnoses with a prevalence of ≥1% in both cohorts, which consisted of 96,581 individuals per group after propensity-score-matching, were identified. Of those, 54 displayed an increased risk in vitiligo. None of the cardiovascular diseases investigated were associated with a decreased risk in patients with vitiligo. Specifically, cerebral infarction occurred in 1.3% of patients with vitiligo, and 1.0% in controls. This difference translated into a hazard ratio (HR) of 1.21 (95% confidence interval [CI] 1.11-1.32, padj<0.001). Venous thromboembolism was recorded in 1.34% of cases and 1.02% of controls without vitiligo, resulting in an increased HR of 1.27 (95% CI 1.171-1.38, padj<0.001). Further, major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) as a composite endpoint was evaluated. The risk for MACE was increased following a vitiligo diagnosis (HR 1.28, 95% CI 1.22-1.35, padj<0.001), which persisted in both sensitivity analyses. Patients with vitiligo display an increased risk of onset of cardiovascular diseases as compared to healthy individuals. Thus, vitiligo might require more precise monitoring and systemic treatment. This research was supported by the Schleswig-Holstein Excellence-Chair Program from the State of Schleswig Holstein, by the Excellence Cluster Precision Medicine in Chronic Inflammation (DFG, EXC 2167), and by DFG Individual Grant LU 877/25-1.

Exploring network governance in sustainable beekeeping management in the Mekong subregion and its challenges

This research paper aims to explore a network governance in sustainable apiculture management and identify its challenges to government and non-governmental policy makers. Qualitative data was collected through participant observation during field visits and Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) with regional apiculture management. The research results show that each country in the Mekong subregion has different network governances in supporting a sustainable apiculture management. Some countries have a collaborative network between the government, the civil society, entrepreneurs, and scholars. In contrary, some countries lack a policy framework from the government. This difference becomes challenges for the six governments of the Mekong subregion countries to commonly support the sustainable apiculture management in the subregion. The identified challenges in the paper are: (1) a capacity gap between the six countries of the region; (2) no common policies and regulations that would facilitate local beekeepers’ access to wider regional bee products; (3) no support for inter-regional transport of bees and honey for academic purposes; (4) inadequate native bee species preservation and pesticides use; (5) local beekeepers’ limited access to a regional bee diseases and pesticides use database; and, (6) a lack of regional standards for general honeybee product support.

Collaborative association networks with cross-level attention for session-based recommendation

Collaborative association networks with cross-level attention for session-based recommendation

Knowledge-embedded multi-layer collaborative adaptive fusion network: Addressing challenges in foggy conditions and complex imaging

Knowledge-embedded multi-layer collaborative adaptive fusion network: Addressing challenges in foggy conditions and complex imaging

Review article: Prevention of inflammatory bowel disease-The path forward.

The possibility of preventing inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is becoming more plausible due to advances in understanding preclinical disease and successful prevention trials in other immune-mediated diseases, such as type 1 diabetes and rheumatoid arthritis. However, before that possibility becomes reality, several efforts need to occur in parallel and in a coordinated way. To propose some critical steps necessary for advancing the field of IBD prediction and prevention. We reviewed the current literature to identify the necessary steps toward a preventive strategy for IBD. The first step should determine the most robust predictive biomarkers and validate them across independent cohorts, creating a multidimensional predictive tool. The second step is to gain a better understanding of the preferences of first-degree relatives and people at risk for IBD, informing the implementation of screening and preventive strategies. Third, these efforts should contribute to the development of high-risk clinics and establish the necessary networks for disease prevention trials. Advancing the field of IBD prediction and prevention will require a multifaceted approach, integrating biomarker discovery, understanding patient preferences, and establishing infrastructure for a collaborative network to support the practical implementation of IBD prevention strategies.

2024 AAHA Community Care Guidelines for Small Animal Practice.

Community care is a creative way of thinking about health care that mobilizes resources within a community and consists of four core principles: recognition of the urgency of access-to-care for the veterinary profession, collaboration within community networks, family-centered health care, and redefining the gold standard of care. The AAHA Community Care Guidelines for Small Animal Practice offer strategies to help busy veterinary practitioners increase access to care within their practice and community by optimizing collaborative networks. While these guidelines do not claim to provide exhaustive solutions to access-to-care issues, they propose a starting point from which private practices can explore and implement workable solutions for their community and their practice. Broadening the scope of care to reach all people with pets requires multimodal, collaborative, and creative solutions both within and outside of the veterinary profession. These solutions can begin with greater communication and collaboration between private veterinary practices and nonprofit veterinary practices, with the goal of keeping pets in their homes with their loving families as much as reasonably possible.

Technology and Teacher Education in Canada

Technology and Teacher Education is part of the Canadian Association of Teacher Education (CATE), a constituent of the Canadian Society for the Study of Education (CSSE). Its mission is to foster a collaborative network of educational researchers dedicated to exploring the intersections of technology and teacher education in Canada. Aligning with this mission, this special issue showcases Canadian scholar expertise and amplifies the diverse voices of the TATE community. Inspired by discussions held during our annual TATE conference, where we focused on lessons learned from emergency remote teaching during the COVID-19 pandemic and the rapid technological advancements that teacher education programs are navigating, this issue offers a collection of studies from Canadian researchers working to make teaching and learning with digital technologies more effective, inclusive, and equitable for all Canadians.

Hereditary Rickets: A Quick Guide for the Pediatrician.

With the increased discovery of genes implicated in vitamin D metabolism and the regulation of calcium and phosphate homeostasis, a growing number of genetic forms of rickets are now recognized. These are categorized into calciopenic and phosphopenic rickets. Calciopenic forms of hereditary rickets are caused by genetic mutations that alter the enzymatic activity in the vitamin D activation pathway or impair the vitamin D receptor action. Hereditary forms of phosphopenic rickets, on the other hand, are caused by genetic mutations that lead to increased expression of FGF23 hormone or that impair the absorptive capacity of phosphate at the proximal renal tubule. Due to the clinical overlap between acquired and genetic forms of rickets, identifying children with hereditary rickets can be challenging. A clear understanding of the molecular basis of hereditary forms of rickets and their associated biochemical patterns allow the health care provider to assign the correct diagnosis, avoid non-effective interventions and shorten the duration of the diagnostic journey in these children. In this mini-review, known forms of hereditary rickets listed on the Online Mendelian Inheritance in Man database are discussed. Further, a clinical approach to identify and diagnose children with hereditary forms of rickets is suggested.

Robotic assistants for the rehabilitation of communication disorders in children: A proposal based on MTO manufacturing for developing countries

Language is fundamental to human communication, allowing individuals to express and exchange ideas, thoughts, and emotions. In early childhood, some children experience communication disorders that impede their ability to articulate words correctly, posing significant challenges to their learning and development. This issue is exacerbated in developing countries, where limited resources and a lack of technological tools hinder access to effective speech therapy. Traditional speech therapy remains vital, but the latest technological advancements have introduced robotic assistants to enhance therapy for communication disorders. Despite their potential, these technologies are often inaccessible in developing regions due to high production costs and a lack of sustainable manufacturing models. For these reasons, this paper presents “FONA,” a robotic assistant that employs rule-based expert systems to provide tactile, auditory, and visual stimuli. FONA supports children aged 3 to 6 in speech therapy by delivering exercises such as syllable production, word formation, and pictographic storytelling of various phonemes. Notably, FONA was successfully tested on children with cochlear implants, reducing the number of sessions required to produce isolated phonemes. The paper also introduces an innovative analysis of the Make To Order (MTO) manufacturing system for producing FONA in developing countries. This analysis explores two key perspectives: collaborative networks and entrepreneurship, offering a sustainable production model. In a pilot experiment, FONA significantly improved children’s attention spans, increasing the period by 17 min. Furthermore, the economic analysis demonstrates that producing FONA through collaborative networks can significantly reduce costs, making it more accessible to institutions in developing countries. The findings suggest that the project is viable for a five-year period, providing a sustainable and effective solution for addressing communication disorders in children.