bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Green Synthesis of Silver‐Doped ZnO Nanoparticles From Adiantum venustum D. Don (Pteridaceae): Antimicrobial and Antioxidant Evaluation
Authors: Noor Adil , Ahmad Nisar , Ali Amjad , Ali Musarat , Iqbal Majid , Khan Muhammad Nauman , Laila Marzia Batool , Shah Syed Nasar , Kaplan Alevcan , Ercişli Sezai , Elshikh Mohamed Soliman
Published: January 2025

One of the main difficulties in nanotechnology is the development of an environmentally friendly, successful method of producing nanoparticles from biological sources. Silver‐doped zinc oxide nanoparticles (Ag‐ZnO NPs), with antibacterial and antioxidant properties, were produced using Adiantum venustum extract as a green technique. Fresh A. venustum plants were gathered, then their bioactive elements were extracted with cold water and processed into nanoparticles. The main goal was to develop Ag‐ZnO NPs (nanoparticles) for medical applications, especially with regard to their antifungal and antibacterial properties. Pathogens such as Fusarium oxysporum, Escherichia coli, and Staphylococcus aureus were tested against the synthesized nanoparticles. While FTIR spectroscopy revealed functional groups, X‐ray diffraction validated the crystalline structure. The scanning electron microscope analysis revealed that the Ag‐ZnO NPs had an average size of 30.16 nm and an irregular shape. Additionally, energy dispersive X‐ray analysis) confirmed the elemental composition. The bioactive compounds present in A. venustum significantly stabilized the nanoparticles. Strong antioxidant and antibacterial activity of the Ag‐ZnO nanoparticles was demonstrated. In particular, this work shows that the Ag‐ZnO nanoparticles produced by green synthesis could be used in biomedical drug delivery and therapy.
Self‐Induced Radioluminescence in Supramolecular Metal Halide Doped with Radioactive Isotope Strontium‐90
Authors: Xie Rongzhen , Li Kai , Zhu Kun , Li Xiuru , Sheng Daopeng , Zhang Hailong , Zhang Zhenyi , Yan Congchong , Dai Baiqian , Chai Zhifang , Wang Shuao , Wang Yaxing
Published: January 2025

Metal halides have recently garnered significant attention in developing functional materials, predominantly utilizing elements with stable isotopes as chemical components. However, the exploration of metal halides containing radioisotopes remains in its infancy, and their potential functionalities are not yet well understood. Herein, the synthesis and characterization of the first radionuclide‐doped supramolecular metal halide that displays unprecedented self‐induced radioluminescence are reported. The complex of 90Sr@[Sr2(18‐crown‐6 ether)2(H2O)2Cl2)]SbCl5, designated 90Sr‐(18C6@Sr)SbCl5, is synthesized by assembling both stable Sr2+ ions and millicurie‐level radioactive 90Sr2+ ion, co‐crystallized with SbCl52− anions. The inherent beta decays (β− particles) of 90Sr2+ ions from cationic supramolecular scaffoldings continuously ionize the SbCl52− anions, enabling self‐induced radioluminescence. Monte Carlo calculations reveal that ionization and bremsstrahlung processes predominantly generate secondary electrons, contributing to self‐induced radioluminescence. The self‐induced radioluminescence intensity of 90Sr‐(18C6@Sr)SbCl5 is measured to be 5.06 × 1012 counts•s−1•g−1•Ci−1, ≈18 times greater than that of the benchmark Th(NO3)4•5H2O compound. This discovery sheds light on the development of a new class of radioactive decay energy‐converting materials based on organo‐metal halides.
A Prospective Pilot Study on Shear Wave Elastography: Evaluation of Parotid Glands in Sjögren's Syndrome and Comparison With Oral Cancer Cases
Authors: Shirai Ai , Ogawa Ruri , Tezuka Yasuhito , Nakatani Yuya , Toya Shuji , Ogura Ichiro
Published: January 2025

Aim

Recently, shear wave elastography is an effective tool in evaluating patients with head and neck lesions. This pilot study was performed to evaluate the parotid glands in Sjögren's syndrome (SS) and comparison with oral cancer cases on shear wave elastography.

Methods

Seventy parotid glands of 35 patients with 6 SS and 29 oral cancer as the control group were evaluated with color Doppler ultrasonography and shear wave elastography. The parotid glands were examined for the internal architecture (homogeneous or heterogeneous) on color Doppler ultrasonography. The shear wave elastography allowed the operator to place regions of interest (ROIs) for parotid glands and automatically displayed shear elastic modulus data (kPa) for each ROI. The internal architecture of the parotid glands was compared by Pearson chi‐square test, and the shear elastic modulus of the parotid glands were compared by Mann–Whitney U test. The analyses were used with a 5% significance level.

Results

83.3% of patients with SS and 3.4% of patients with oral cancer had heterogeneous in internal architecture of parotid glands on ultrasonographic findings (p < 0.001). The shear elastic modulus of the parotid glands for SS (11.9 ± 4.3 kPa) was higher than those of oral cancer (8.3 ± 3.2 kPa, p = 0.006).

Conclusion

Shear wave elastography is effective in distinguishing the stiffness of the parotid gland in patients with SS from that in oral cancer cases.
Urban vegetation and well‐being: A cross‐sectional study in Montreal, Canada
Authors: Sousa‐Silva Rita , Kestens Yan , Poirier Stephens Zoé , Thierry Benoit , Schoenig Daniel , Fuller Daniel , Winters Meghan , Smargiassi Audrey
Published: January 2025

As urbanisation continues to accelerate, urban green spaces are increasingly recognised as key elements for enhancing people's health and well‐being. However, most research has used vegetation metrics that may not capture the specific associations between different types of vegetation and different mental health outcomes.

In this study, we investigate the cross‐sectional associations between residential vegetation exposure and individual well‐being in Montreal, Canada, using different vegetation and well‐being measures: The proportion of grass cover, tree cover, and average NDVI value within buffers of various radii (100–1000 m) were linked to each participant's residence (n = 1072, aged 18 years or older), while well‐being was assessed using subjective happiness, emotional well‐being, and personal well‐being scales. The associations were analysed using generalised additive regression models.

Our findings show that more vegetation was linked to enhanced well‐being, although the effect sizes were relatively small. Irrespective of the buffer distance, the positive associations for grass and NDVI were more pronounced than those for trees, though these associations varied across the different well‐being outcome measures. We also observed that increasing tree coverage has a stronger positive effect on the well‐being of individuals who are dissatisfied with the current number of street trees.

Synthesis and applications. Everyday exposure to nearby nature is associated with better self‐reported mental health, suggesting urban greening policies should focus on including more vegetation within built spaces, from individual street trees to small and large parks. Our study also highlights the importance of distinguishing between different types of vegetation (e.g. grass vs. trees) when studying the effects of vegetation on well‐being or other health‐related outcomes. Likewise, using different measures of well‐being may provide a more nuanced and comprehensive understanding of how vegetation impacts people's well‐being.

Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.
INSIGHT: A Tool for Fit‐for‐Purpose Evaluation and Quality Assessment of Standardized Observational Data Sources for Real World Evidence on Medicine and Vaccine Safety
Authors: Hoxhaj Vjola , Andaur Navarro Constanza L. , Riera‐Arnau Judit , Elbers Roel J. H. J. , Alsina Ema , Dodd Caitlin , Sturkenboom Miriam C. J. M.
Published: January 2025

Purpose

To describe the development of INSIGHT, a real‐world data quality tool to assess completeness, consistency, and fitness‐for‐purpose of observational health data sources.

Methods

We designed a three‐level pipeline with data quality assessments (DQAs) to be performed in ConcePTION Common Data Model (CDM) instances. The pipeline has been coded using R.

Results

INSIGHT is an open‐source tool that identifies potential data quality issues in CDM‐standardized instances through the systematic execution and summary of over 588 configurable DQAs. Level 1 focuses on conformance to the ConcePTION CDM specifications. Level 2 evaluates the temporal plausibility of events and uniqueness of records. Level 3 provides an overview of distributions, outliers, and trends over time to facilitate fit‐for‐purpose evaluation. Therefore, level 1 and 2 assure a proper data standardization, while level 3 provides information regarding the study population, and potential sub‐populations. The DQAs are run locally and assessed centrally by a data quality revisor together with the data access provider's representatives.

Discussion

Data quality is the sum of several internal and external features of the data. While DQAs can provide reassurance about fitness‐for‐purpose for secondary‐use data sources, improvements in data collection are essential to reduce errors and enhance overall data quality for Real World Evidence.

Conclusion

INSIGHT aims to support clinical and regulatory decision‐making for medicines and vaccines by evaluating the quality of observational health data sources to support fit for purpose assessment. Assessing and improving data quality will enhance the reliability and quality of the generated evidence.

Study Registration

This research was registered in EU PAS registration with number EU50142.
Post‐Market Evidence for Cancer Medicines in Regulatory and Clinical Decision‐Making: A Scoping Review
Authors: McEwin Eliza J. , Hooimeyer Ashleigh , Mintzes Barbara J.
Published: January 2025

Background

Cancer medicines usually have uncertain efficacy and safety profiles when they are first approved by medicines regulators because this evidence usually emerges post‐market. Little is known about the extent to which post‐market evidence is evaluated and integrated into evidence review processes in regulatory and clinical contexts.

Objectives

The objective of this scoping review is to examine the literature on how post‐market evidence on benefits and harms is evaluated and integrated in regulatory decisions and guidance for clinical decision‐making.

Methods

This scoping review focussed on the organisations that review cancer medicines and post‐market evidence for their benefits and harms. It examined all regulatory or clinical contexts in which this post‐market evidence might be included in evidence review processes for evaluation then integration into regulatory or clinical contexts. Four electronic databases were searched. Titles and abstracts were screened for all retrieved references followed by full‐text screening by two independent reviewers according to pre‐specified inclusion criteria.

Results

In total, 28 studies met inclusion criteria. These included 31 assessments by medicines regulators, four by clinical practice guideline developers and two by health technology assessment agencies. Half of the studies evaluated clinical outcomes for benefit or harms (e.g., overall survival, serious adverse events). We found that more published literature evaluated and integrated post‐market evidence for benefits and harms of cancer medicines in regulatory than in clinical situations, such as treatment guidelines and health technology assessments. In these studies, post‐market evidence for harms seemed to be integrated more often than for benefits. And the studies showed a gap: only some of the evaluated post‐market evidence was subsequently integrated in both regulatory and clinical situations.

Conclusion

Overall, these findings raise important questions around the availability, accessibility, and assessment of post‐market evidence for benefits and harms of cancer medicines so that it can be used by health professionals working in cancer services and by people with cancer.
Mortality Prediction in Newborns With Persistent Pulmonary Hypertension: A Comparison of Four Illness Severity Scores
Authors: Pakhathirathien Pattima , Maneenil Gunlawadee , Thatrimontrichai Anucha , Dissaneevate Supaporn , Praditaukrit Manapat
Published: January 2025

Objective

This study aimed to compare the accuracy of four neonatal illness severity scores for predicting mortality in persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborn (PPHN).

Study Design

This retrospective study included neonates diagnosed with PPHN between 2013 and 2022. The illness severity scores of four commonly used tools were completed for each infant: the Clinical Risk Index for Babies‐II (CRIB‐II), the Score for Neonatal Acute Physiology‐Perinatal Extension version II (SNAPPE‐II) in the first 12 h after admission and maximum oxygenation index (OI) and Vasoactive‐Inotropic score (VIS) during the first 24 h (OI24max and VIS24max), 48 h (OI48max and VIS48max), and 72 h (OI72max and VIS72max) after admission. We constructed a receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve to assess the discrimination and accuracy of the scores and determine the cutoff values for predicting mortality.

Results

We enrolled 146 neonates (131 survivors and 15 nonsurvivors). The CRIB‐II, SNAPPE‐II, maximum OI, and VIS were significantly higher in nonsurvivors than in survivors. An OI72max score of 41 showed the highest accuracy in predicting mortality (area under the ROC curve [AUC] of 0.88) with an OI48max score of 31 (AUC: 0.86) and VIS72max score of 430 (AUC: 0.80) showing good accuracy. The best CRIB‐II and SNAPPE‐II cutoff scores for predicting mortality were 4 (AUC: 0.74) and 32 (AUC: 0.84), respectively.

Conclusions

The most accurate illness severity score for predicting mortality was OI72max score of 41. However, the OI48max, SNAPPE‐II, and VIS72max scores also showed good accuracy. Mortality prediction using these scores can guide early management and close monitoring.
Rain in convective downdraughts
Authors: Rooney G. G. , Shipway B. J. , Parker D. J.
Published: January 2025

This study presents results from the simulation of idealised, rain‐laden downdraughts using a large‐eddy model. Each downdraught is initialised as a “cold, wet bubble”, that is, a spherical/spheroidal region of the lower atmosphere with a negative potential‐temperature perturbation and non‐zero rain mixing ratio. The bubbles are statically unstable and evolve into downdraughts. Results are compared for two‐ and three‐moment microphysics parametrisations. A tendency for larger raindrops to descend ahead of the cold air is observed, which is significant in some two‐moment runs. The effects of this are interpreted in the context of fluid‐dynamical studies of related phenomena. It is found that a drier environment has the effect of increasing cooling in the downdraught, but reduces the peak in downdraught speed. Both these effects stem from increased rain evaporation. A relatively heavy rain load leads to a narrower downdraught, through the suppression of internal (thermal‐like) circulations. Downdraughts intensify, in both cooling and vertical velocity, in correlation with the initial bubble height‐to‐width ratio, being greatest for vertically stretched bubbles.
Isolation and Identification of Mercury–Dissolved Organic Matter Complexes in Mercury–Humic Acid Suspensions
Authors: Qasim Ghulam Hussain , Harris Lisa , Mangal Vaughn , Montesdeoca Mario , Todorova Svetoslava , Driscoll Charles
Published: January 2025

Rationale

The complexation with dissolved organic matter (DOM) is a pivotal factor influencing transformations, transport, and bioavailability of mercury (Hg) in aquatic environments. However, identifying these complexes poses a significant challenge because of their low concentrations and the presence of coexisting ions.

Methods

In this study, mercury–dissolved organic matter (Hg‐DOM) complexes were isolated through solid‐phase extraction (SPE) from Hg–humic acid suspensions, and complexes were putatively identified using ultrahigh resolution Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometry (FTICR‐MS).

Results

Dissolved organic carbon (DOC) and total Hg analysis before and after SPE showed an increase in DOC:Hg ratio. The DOC:Hg ratio was lower in extracts from cartridges with silica structure bonded with hydrocarbon chains (C18) than priority pollutant (PPL) cartridges at circumneutral pH, indicating that C18 was more effective at extracting DOM complexed Hg. These results were confirmed with FTICR‐MS analysis, where two Hg‐DOM complexes were putatively identified from PPL extracts as opposed to eight from C18 (Winnow score > 75%). In addition, C8H13HgN2O2S, a molecular formula with a m/z ratio of 403.04, was identified across three separate extractions using a C18 cartridge, suggesting that the complexes were preserved during extraction and, presumably, electrospray ionization.

Conclusions

The results highlight the effectiveness of the methodology developed in this study—SPE coupled with FTICR‐MS for isolating and identifying Hg‐DOM complexes. This approach allows for the exploration of the elemental and structural composition of Hg‐DOM complexes, which affects Hg speciation, bioavailability, and transformations in aquatic ecosystems.

Synopsis

A methodology was developed to identify Hg‐DOM complexes at low concentrations to gain insight into mercury bioavailability, transformations, and transport in the environment.
The Role of Plasmapheresis in the Management of Severe Rhesus Incompatibility During Pregnancy: A Literature Review
Authors: Abdallah Wael , Kessrouani Assaad , Nassar Malek
Published: January 2025

Introduction

To evaluate the effectiveness and safety of plasmapheresis in cases complicated by severe alloimmunization.

Methods

We reviewed multiple studies from databases like Medline, Embase, and Cochrane, looking specifically for research on ‘Rhesus incompatibility’, ‘plasmapheresis’, and ‘pregnancy’. After narrowing down, we included 46 studies that met our criteria to see how this treatment affected both prenatal and postnatal health.

Results

Out of 208 pregnancies analysed, about 22.1% sadly resulted in foetal loss, with one neonatal death. However, starting plasmapheresis as early as 3 weeks helped delay or avoid the need for Intrauterine blood transfusions in cases of severe foetal anaemia. Most of the babies born (77.4%) had positive outcomes, although many needed phototherapies after birth. Combining IVIG with plasmapheresis appears to be safe, with good postnatal outcomes.

Conclusions

Plasmapheresis shows promise as a treatment for severe Rhesus sensitisation, potentially reducing the need for Intrauterine transfusions and improving newborn outcomes. More studies are needed to refine treatment protocols and confirm these early findings.
Gamma Irradiation‐Assisted Synthesis of Nanocomposite Reinforced with Cellulose Nanocrystals Extracted from Sugarcane Bagasse to Adsorb Sr2+ Ions from Simulated Wastewater
Authors: Sherbiny Sabah F. , Saad E. A. , Geleel Mohamed Abdel , Badawy Nagwa A. , Nasef Shaimaa M.
Published: January 2025

Sugarcane bagasse (SCB) can be investigated as an agro‐waste for various applications. Its suitability as a source of cellulose piqued interest across a variety of applications, especially in the industrial sector. The current study applied the acid hydrolysis method to successfully isolate cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) from sugarcane bagasse for use as nano reinforcing agents. The formation of CNCs was confirmed by XRD, EDX, and DLS. The extracted CNCs were effectively generated by the ex‐situ method, dispersed into an Acacia gum/acrylamide (AG/AAm) solution, and subjected to γ‐irradiation for superpurity polymerization and crosslinking, generating AG/PAAm hydrogel and AG/PAAm/CNCs nanocomposite. The structure, morphology, and characteristics of AG/PAAm hydrogel and AG/PAAm/CNCs nanocomposite were evaluated using FTIR, SEM, TGA, and XRD. Hydrogel and the nanocomposite with improved characteristics as a result of CNCs reinforcement can be extremely beneficial in the elimination of simulated radioactive Sr2+ metal ions from wastewater. Batch adsorption examinations were executed to identify the optimum adsorption by modifying a variety of parameters including pH, adsorbent dosage (V/m ratio), initial pollutant concentration, temperature, and contact time. According to the results, the optimum pH enhancing the removal of Sr2+ ions was 9. The incorporation of CNCs into the AG/PAAm matrix enhances the adsorption of Sr2+ reaching 370 mg g−1. The results fit the pseudo‐second order kinetic model as well as the Freundlich isotherm.
Broadening English‐Centric Early Literacy Pedagogies: Building on Young Spanish‐English Bilingual Children's Language and Home Literacy Practices
Authors: Soltero‐González Lucinda , Gillanders Cristina , Hasenohr Francisca Valenzuela
Published: January 2025

In recent years, there has been a special interest in promoting literacy learning in early childhood education programs. It is presumed that teaching literacy early can ensure better literacy outcomes in later years. Currently, in a renewed effort to improve children's literacy learning through science of reading supported practices, most states across the United States have passed legislation for the teaching of reading in grades K‐3. These laws have repercussions for early childhood education (ECE) programs serving bilingual children. Educators and advocates for bilingual children have voiced concerns about a blanket approach to early literacy reflective of a monolingual, English‐centric perspective, which might exacerbate the longstanding educational inequities experienced by bilingual children. Viewing language and literacy learning both as a right and as a resource, we propose an expansive perspective of early literacy that integrates a holistic bilingual and a sociocultural perspective. A broader perspective on early literacy calls for an understanding of the linguistic characteristics of each language as well as the sociocultural literacy practices associated with the uses of both languages. Drawing from early literacy studies conducted in Spanish‐dominant countries and in the United States, we foreground two interrelated components of early literacy learning—code‐focused skills and home literacy practices—with an emphasis on commonalities and differences across Spanish and English and how these early literacy aspects relate across languages. We also discuss asset‐based practices for supporting literacy learning in early childhood settings serving young bilingual children. This information can help to enhance teachers' agency for building pro‐Latine literacy curricula and pedagogies that can lead to emancipatory, meaningful, and more equitable education for bilingual children.
Radiation tolerance and biodegradation performance of a marine bacterium Acinetobacter sp. Y9 in radioactive composite oil‐contaminated wastewater
Authors: Yan Jiejie , Luo Qun , Zhu Baikang , Chen Zhi , Chen Qingguo
Published: January 2025

The tolerance and degradation characteristics of a marine oil‐degrading strain Acinetobacter sp. Y9 were investigated in the presence of diesel oil and simulated radioactive nuclides (Mn2+, Co2+, Ni2+, Sr2+, Cs+) at varying concentrations, as well as exposure to γ‐ray radiation (Co‐60). The maximum tolerable concentrations for Co2+and Ni2+ were found to be 5 mg/l and 25 mg/l, respectively, while the tolerable concentrations for Mn2+, Sr2+, and Cs+ exceeded 400 mg/l, 1000 mg/l, and 1000 mg/l, respectively. A total of 0.4 Gy/h of γ‐ray radiation (Co‐60) did not significantly affect the growth of strain Y9. The presence of metal nuclides and γ‐ray radiation primarily inhibited the production of outer membrane proteins while promoting the secretion of polysaccharides in strain Y9. Strain Y9 exhibited a notable capacity to degrade diesel oil under radiative conditions when exposed to the five individual radionuclides used in this study. Furthermore, the introduction of the radiation‐resistant strain R1 significantly enhanced the diesel oil degradation efficiency of strain Y9 in the presence of a mixture of five nuclides, with the degradation efficiency increasing from 26.7% to 46.75%. Strain R1 demonstrated the ability to absorb a substantial amount of free nuclides, thereby creating favorable environmental conditions for the growth and degradation activity of strain Y9.

Practitioner Points

Investigate the tolerance mechanisms of strain Y9 to different nuclides and γ‐ray irradiation.

Examine the degradation characteristics of strain Y9 on diesel oil under the influence of nuclides and irradiation.

In a single nuclide medium, strain Y9 exhibited a high degradation rate of 90.64% toward 1% diesel oil concentration.

The addition of a radiation‐resistant strain R1 can enhance the degradation efficiency of Y9 toward diesel oil.
Facile preparation of marine carrageenan hydrogel‐coated steel mesh with superhydrophilic and underwater superoleophobic performance for highly efficient oil–water separation
Authors: Sun Wuyang , Ding Linghui , Xu Peixuan , Zhu Baikang , Ma Ke Cun , Chen Qingguo
Published: January 2025

The discharge of oil‐laden wastewater from industrial processes and the frequent occurrence of oil spills pose severe threats to the ecological environment and human health. Membrane materials with special wettability have garnered attention for their ability to achieve efficient oil–water separation by leveraging the differences in wettability at the oil–water interface. These materials are characterized by their simplicity, energy efficiency, environmental friendliness, and reusability. Among them, superhydrophilic‐underwater superoleophobic membranes inspired by biomimetic fish scale structures have become a focal point of oil–water separation research due to their ability to repel oil contaminants effectively and maintain self‐cleaning properties during the separation process. In this study, a stainless steel microporous two‐dimensional metal mesh was employed as the substrate, coated with a carrageenan solution, and gelled in situ using sodium periodate as a crosslinking agent to fabricate a membrane with oil–water separation capabilities. The robust hydrophilicity of the carrageenan hydrogel imparts the coated stainless steel mesh with superhydrophilicity and underwater superoleophobicity (underwater oil contact angle ≥ 158°), along with excellent antifouling properties and recyclability. Experimental results demonstrate that the membrane achieved separation efficiencies of 98.87%, 98.08%, 98.14%, and 97.98% for silicone oil, canola oil, cyclohexane, and liquid paraffin, respectively, with a water flux of 1380.75 L/m2·h. Remarkably, the membrane retained its initial separation efficiency even after 20 cycles. Additionally, the hydrogel exhibited exceptional stability under highly alkaline conditions, making it suitable for the treatment of complex oil‐contaminated wastewater.

Practitioner Points

This study extracted a biocompatible and renewable hydrogel from marine red algae for application in oil–water separation.

A superhydrophilic/underwater superoleophobic oil–water separation membrane was developed based on biomimetic fish scale structures.

The membrane exhibited exceptionally high separation efficiency under pure gravity‐driven conditions.

The resulting material exhibits excellent oil repellency, self‐cleaning capability, and recyclability.
Uncovering Breeding Habitat Use of an Uncommon Songbird in Pennsylvania Using Large Scale Acoustic Data
Authors: Czarnecki Chapin , Chronister Lauren , Fiss Cameron , Larkin Jeffery L. , Kitzes Justin
Published: January 2025

The Canada Warbler (Cardellina canadensis) population has declined by over 60% across its range since 1966. Knowledge of breeding habitat use is crucial to the conservation of songbird species but is missing for significant portions of the breeding range of the Canada Warbler's genetically distinct eastern population. We used a large‐scale deployment of autonomous recording units (ARUs) to record Canada Warbler song across north‐central and southwestern Pennsylvania. We deployed ARUs at 664 locations in forested ecosystems, setting them to record for 2 h each morning from mid‐May to mid‐June. We used classifier‐assisted listening to detect Canada Warbler song and generate detection histories. Our occupancy models revealed six significant habitat associations. We highlight forest conditions that can be targeted for the conservation of steeply declining eastern Canada Warbler populations. Our study is an example of the gains in statistical power allowed by ARUs and machine learning methods.
Tridiagonal Hamiltonians modeling the density of states of the double-scaled SYK model
Authors: Nandy Pratik
Published: January 2025

Abstract

By analyzing the global density of states (DOS) in the Double-Scaled Sachdev-Ye-Kitaev (DSSYK) model, we construct a finite-dimensional Hamiltonian that replicates this DOS. We then tridiagonalize the Hamiltonian to determine the mean Lanczos coefficients within the parameter range. The bulk Lanczos coefficients, especially the Lanczos descent can be analytically expressed as a particular q-deformation of the logarithm. Our numerical results are further corroborated by semi-analytical findings, a random matrix potential construction in the bulk, and the analytic results at the edge of the Lanczos spectra using the method of moments.
Kodaira-Spencer anomalies with Stora-Zumino method
Authors: Rovere Davide
Published: January 2025

Abstract

Holomorphic diffeomorphism anomalies of 2 n-dimensional gravitational theories in Beltrami parametrisation (Kodaira-Spencer anomalies) are computed in the brst framework, using an extension of the Stora-Zumino method. This method, which allows to compute anomalies in a very concise way, makes manifest the topological origin of anomalies. They have a clear geometric interpretation, since they are expressed in terms of Chern polynomials and Pontryagin invariants. The key ingredient is the formulation of the brst transformations in terms of polyforms, whose total degree is the sum of the form degree and of the ghost number. This approach simplifies significantly the analysis available in literature and it allows to compute many other solutions. Namely, an anomaly, which was computed using different methods, is proved to be a consistent brst anomaly, thereby supplementing a conclusion in a previous analysis.
On the Weights of Root Subgroups of Affine Toric Varieties
Authors: van Santen Immanuel
Published: January 2025

Let X be an affine toric variety and let D(X) be the set of weights of all root subgroups. It is known that D(X) together with its embedding into the character group determines X as a toric variety. In this article we prove that X is already determined by the abstract set D(X) together with some additional combinatorial data.
PET/CT-based target volume definition in involved-site radiotherapy for treatment of early-stage nodal follicular lymphoma
Authors: Wark Antje , Kim Ji-Young , Mavriopoulou Elena , la Fougère Christian , Wiegel Thomas , Scholz Christian W. , Baues Christian , Li Minglun , Gauler Thomas , Combs Stephanie E. , Herfarth Klaus
Published: January 2025

Purpose

Recent advancements in imaging, particularly 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron-emission tomography–computed tomography (FDG-PET/CT), have improved the detection of involved lymph nodes, thus influencing staging accuracy and potentially treatment outcomes. This study is a post hoc analysis of the GAZAI trial data to evaluate the impact of FDG-PET/CT versus computed tomography (CT) alone on radiation target volumes for involved-site radiotherapy (IS-RT) in early-stage follicular lymphoma (FL).

Methods

All patients in the GAZAI trial underwent pretherapeutic FDG-PET/CT examinations, which were subject to central quality control. Lymph nodes with pathological metabolism were assessed for CT morphology. Differential regional involvement and the impact on radiation target volume for IS-RT were compared between PET/CT-based to solely CT-based staging.

Results

In 54 patients with PET-positive lymph nodes after initial surgery, 170 involved lymph nodes were identified in total. FDG-PET/CT identified additionally involved lymph nodes not detected by CT in 61% of the patients, leading to a significant change in radiation treatment fields for 30% of the cohort. Only 58% of all involved lymph nodes exhibited pathological CT morphology. The findings were robust across different Deauville score thresholds and CT morphological metrics.

Conclusion

The findings confirm the essential role of FDG-PET/CT in accurately defining the radiation volume for treatment of early-stage follicular lymphomas with radiotherapy. These results support the integration of FDG-PET/CT into the standard diagnostic pathway and its inclusion in the service catalogue of statutory health insurance, emphasizing its importance for optimal treatment planning and the potential impact on patient outcomes.
Kann das Bürgergeld die Lebensmittelkosten einer gesunden Ernährung von Kindern und Jugendlichen decken?
Authors: Belgardt Aziza J. , Kersting Mathilde , Sinningen Kathrin , Schmidt-Choudhury Anjona , Jochum Frank , Claßen Martin , Lücke Thomas
Published: January 2025

Einleitung

Von Armut betroffene Familien in Deutschland erhalten im Rahmen der Sozialgesetzgebung (SGB) existenzsichernde Leistungen. Das Bürgergeld umfasst auch Regelsätze für Kinder und Jugendliche, gestaffelt in 3 Altersgruppen. Der Bedarf für Ernährung ist die größte Kategorie des Regelsatzes. Die Optimierte Mischkost (OMK) ist ein praxisnahes Konzept einer gesunden Ernährung für Kinder und Jugendliche im Alter von 1–18 Jahren. Herkömmliche Lebensmittel und selbsthergestellte Speisen werden bevorzugt. Ziel des Projektes war es, die Lebensmittelkosten der OMK anhand des zugrunde liegenden 7‑Tage-Speiseplans zu berechnen.

Methodik

Es wurden die niedrigsten Regalpreise der 87 Lebensmittel der OMK im Lebensmitteleinzelhandel (1 Supermarkt, 1 Discounter; November 2022, Bochum) erfasst. Der Ernährungsregelsatz wurde mit den Lebensmittelkosten pro Monat nach den SGB-Altersgruppen sowie nach den Altersgruppen der Deutschen Gesellschaft für Ernährung (DGE) verglichen. Weiterhin wurden die Beiträge der Lebensmittelgruppen zu den Gesamtkosten und der Gesamtenergiezufuhr der OMK aufgeschlüsselt.

Ergebnisse

Die Kosten der OMK wurden mit dem Ernährungsregelsatz des Bürgergeldes für die 3 SGB-Altersgruppen zu 101–109 % gedeckt, für die enger gefassten DGE-Altersgruppen war der Betrag mit wenigen Ausnahmen ebenfalls ausreichend. Hauptsächliche Kostenträger der OMK waren Gemüse/Rohkost, hauptsächliche Energielieferanten waren Brot/Getreideprodukte.

Diskussion

Mit dem Bürgergeld kann der ernährungsphysiologische Bedarf von Kindern und Jugendlichen gedeckt werden, unter der Voraussetzung der Selbstherstellung der Speisen und der Verwendung preiswerter Lebensmittel. Es bleibt zu diskutieren, inwieweit auch mit der Ernährung verbundene Bedürfnisse der sozialen Teilhabe erfüllt werden können.
Kodierung von Kindesmisshandlung und -vernachlässigung in Kliniken in Deutschland: Übersicht und Einordnung der Datenlage im Hellfeld
Authors: Walter Teresa , Fegert Jörg M. , Jud Andreas
Published: January 2025

Hintergrund

Kindesmisshandlung ist in Deutschland ein gravierendes Problem. Um entsprechend effektive Präventionsmaßnahmen zu planen, stellen insbesondere erhobene Krankenhausdaten zu Kindesmisshandlung eine wichtige Datengrundlage dar. Damit kann beurteilt werden, inwieweit gefährdete Kinder und Jugendliche identifiziert, unterstützt und geschützt werden. Eine systematische Auswertung und Einordnung dieser Krankenhausdaten in Deutschland fehlt bislang. Ziel der Arbeit war es deshalb, einen Überblick über die Datenlage in diesem Hellfeld zu erlangen und damit die bestehende Forschungslücke zu schließen.

Methode

Deskriptive Auswertung (teil-)stationärer Daten zu Kindesmisshandlung und -vernachlässigung (Nebendiagnose in der Internationalen statistischen Klassifikation der Krankheiten und verwandter Gesundheitsprobleme, 10. Revision (ICD-10): T74.0, T74.1, T74.2, T74.3, T74.8, T74.9 + Prozedur OPS: 1‑945.0, 1‑945.1) aus dem Erhebungszeitraum 2019 bis 2023. Betrachtet werden jeweils die Variablen Alter, Geschlecht sowie misshandlungsrelevante Hauptdiagnosen. Der Zugang zu den Daten erfolgte über den Datenbrowser des Instituts für das Entgeltsystem im Krankenhaus (InEK).

Ergebnisse

Die verschwindend geringe Anzahl diagnostizierter und dokumentierter Fälle von Kindesmisshandlung im (teil-)stationären klinischen Setting steht in starkem Kontrast zu den Dunkelfeldprävalenzen bevölkerungsrepräsentativer Untersuchungen. Eine erhebliche Untererfassung aller Misshandlungsformen wird deutlich, die verschiedenen Formen bei Jungen und Mädchen unterschiedlich häufig erkannt. Darüber hinaus wird die oft fehlende Verknüpfung kindesmisshandlungsrelevanter Diagnosen und geleisteter Prozeduren ersichtlich.

Schlussfolgerung

Neben Sensibilisierung sowie Aus‑, Fort- und Weiterbildung von Fachkräften im Gesundheitswesen besteht die Notwendigkeit von gezielten politischen Veränderungen.
Überbelastungsreaktionen am Fuß
Authors: Keiler Alexander , Genelin Konstantin , Riechelmann Felix
Published: January 2025

Hintergrund

Überbelastungsreaktionen sind stark einschränkende sowie belastende Erkrankungen und betreffen in den meisten Fällen den Fuß. Dieser Übersichtsartikel soll die häufigsten spezifischen Krankheitsbilder darstellen sowie Hintergründe und Therapiemaßnahmen erläutern. Er dient als Behandlungspfad und Algorithmus in der klinischen Praxis zur Behandlung von Überbelastungsreaktionen am Fuß.

Methoden

Fachspezifische Literatur wurde nach Krankheitsbildern, Grundlagen und Therapiekonzepten systematisch ausgewertet und mit eigenen Erfahrungswerten und Behandlungsmaßnahmen korreliert.

Ergebnisse

Plantare Fasciitis, Achillodynie, Ermüdungsfrakturen, Schienbeinkantensyndrom, Überbelastung der Tibialis-posterior-Sehne, Morton-Neurome sowie Apophysitis calcanei stellen die häufigsten Überbelastungsreaktionen am Fuß dar. Die Basis der Diagnostik sollten stets Anamnese sowie klinische Untersuchung in statischer und dynamischer Durchführung darstellen. Bildgebend sollte eine Röntgenaufnahme des Fußes und des Sprunggelenks im Stehen angefertigt werden. Ergänzend empfiehlt sich meist eine Magnetresonanztomographie (MRT), da sie wertvolle Informationen zur Erkrankung liefert und auch zum Ausschluss anderer Differenzialdiagnosen dienen kann. Die primäre Therapie stellen konservative Maßnahmen dar. Für die Eigenbluttherapie mit plättchenreichem Plasma (PRP) findet sich v. a. die Behandlung der plantaren Fasciitis und der Achillodynie zunehmend Evidenz. Nach Ausschöpfung der konservativen Therapie kann in speziellen Fällen mitunter eine operative Therapie angedacht werden.

Schlussfolgerung

Überbelastungserkrankungen am Fuß stellen schmerzhafte und belastende Erkrankungen dar. Die primäre Therapie ist konservativ. Zunehmende Evidenz findet sich für die Eigenbluttherapie mit PRP. Dennoch durchlaufen Patienten mitunter einen langen Leidensweg.
Evaluierung allgemeiner Modellvorstellungen zur großräumigen Fließsystematik im Oberjura-Aquifer (Molassebecken)
Authors: Winter Theis , Schölderle Felix , Pfrang Daniela , Baumann Thomas , Zosseder Kai , Kus Günter , Einsiedl Florian
Published: January 2025

Der Oberjura-Aquifer im Süddeutschen Molassebecken, bestehend aus den Karbonaten des Oberjura und der Unterkreide (Purbeck), ist der derzeit wichtigste geothermische Explorationshorizont in Deutschland. Dieser bis zu 600 m mächtige Aquifer erstreckt sich von der Fränkischen und Schwäbischen Alb im Norden bis zum nördlichen Alpenrand im Süden. Hydrogeologische Kernthemen bei der wissenschaftlichen Beschreibung sind unter anderem die Fließsystematik und die Lokalisierung potenzieller Einzugsgebiete des Oberjura-Aquifers, für die ein umfangreiches Reservoirverständnis nötig ist. Bedingt durch die unterschiedliche thematische Ausrichtung der bisherigen Arbeiten und ihre zeitlichen Abstände sind die Ergebnisse teilweise widersprüchlich und vermitteln bisher für den Oberjura-Aquifer kein einheitliches hydrogeologisches Bild. Aktuell sind 24 Geothermieanlagen im Molassebecken im kontinuierlichen Betrieb und eröffnen somit die Möglichkeit, auf regionaler Ebene einheitliche Untersuchungen im Oberjura-Aquifer durchzuführen. In diesem Review werden die aktuell verfügbaren Daten zur Altersdatierung, Hydrochemie, Hydraulik, Temperaturfeld und Hypothesen zur Fließsystematik in einen gemeinsamen Kontext gestellt und neu diskutiert.
Ecosystem Changes Caused by Hydrological Change are Associated with Population Decline in a Formerly-Common Grazing Herbivore
Authors: Blaser-Hart W. J. , Shanungu G. K. , Edwards P. J. , Harms J. , Hart S. P. H. , Ellenbroek G. A. , van Gils H. A. M. J. , Simukonda C. , Olde Venterink H.
Published: January 2025

Few ecosystems are more sensitive to hydrological change than seasonally-flooded wetlands. Here, we investigate how changes in hydrological regimes caused by the construction of two dams have contributed to large changes in the structure and dynamics of the Kafue Flats, an internationally-important, partially-protected wetland ecosystem in Zambia. We use historical (1970) and contemporary (2013) data to describe changes in hydrology due to dam operations, and to compare the areal extent, distribution, and composition of the major wetland and dryland habitats in the pre- and post-dam periods. To understand the seasonal dynamics of the ecosystem and how these dynamics influence the seasonal movement and use of the ecosystem by the dominant grazing herbivore, the endangered Kafue lechwe, we combine data on annual hydrological variation with spatially- and/or temporally-explicit quantitative estimates of: (1) grass biomass and nutrient stocks, (2) distribution of lechwe across habitats, and (3) lechwe nutritional status. The operation of the dams has reduced hydrological variation, causing a loss of more than 50% of seasonally-flooded grasslands and probably promoting woody encroachment in some habitats. Our results demonstrate that Kafue lechwe is highly dependent on these seasonally-flooded grasslands during the dry season, when their nutritional status is otherwise critically low. In combination, we hypothesize that changes in the flooding regime driven by dam construction precipitated ecosystem-level changes that—together with other factors—may have contributed to a rapid historic, as well as ongoing decline in the lechwe population. Our study highlights potential consequences of the spatio-temporal homogenization of a previously highly variable ecosystem.
Refining the role of bathymetry, hydrodynamics and upwelling at various scales along the coral reefs at Sodwana Bay, South Africa
Authors: Wells Calvin , Pringle Justin , Stretch Derek
Published: January 2025

Hydrodynamics and physical processes that occur at various length and time scales strongly influence coral reefs. Therefore, understanding the interactions between reefs, hydrodynamics and other physical processes is crucial for the maintenance and survival of reef systems. Coral reefs around the world are under increasing threat to global climate change, and additionally coral bleaching is a major concern for the health and survival of these reefs. Some marginal coral reefs are situated in areas where the complex ocean flow patterns interact with topographical features, providing possible refuges to rising ocean temperatures and coral bleaching. A prominent example is the Sodwana Bay coral reef system which has shown resilience to coral bleaching. This resilience has been attributed to cold water temperature anomalies that cause short-term temperature fluctuations on the reefs. This study explores hydrodynamics at various scales around the Sodwana Bay coral reefs and associated short-term temperature anomalies using a flexible mesh hydrodynamic model of the southwest region of the Indian Ocean, nested within a global ocean model. The nested hydrodynamic model better replicates the observed temperature anomalies when compared to the the reanalysis NEMO global ocean model. The higher model resolution around Sodwana results in less numerical mixing and smoothing of the temperature fields in the nearshore region when compared to the reanalysed NEMO global ocean model leading to a better replication of the local hydrodynamics around the Sodwana region. The anomalies investigated were associated with remote upwelling of cold water near the Delagoa Peninsula, followed by advection from the Delagoa Bight towards the Sodwana region. The separation of the strong intermittent southward stream from the Delagoa Peninsula is strongly linked to the upwelling at the Delagoa Peninsula. An analysis of the hydrodynamic patterns during the anomaly periods reveal that when the strong southward stream reattaches to the coastline, it typically does so south of Sodwana. The reattachment of the stream has an inertial effect and pushes the flow of water against the coastline which deflects the flow northwards up past Sodwana resulting in a northward current reversal along the Sodwana coastline which agrees with observed current reversals during the anomaly periods by insitu measurements taken on the Sodwana reefs. The model also revealed that local upwelling occurs within the Sodwana canyons during this event, making the water in the canyons colder than the surrounding water. When the locally upwelled water spreads over the reef system, the anomaly amplitude is enhanced by approximately 20 %.
The use of multiple systems estimation to estimate the number of unattributed paintings by Modigliani
Authors: Jackson James Edward , Francis Brian
Published: January 2025

The number of unattributed paintings by Amedeo Modigliani is estimated, using the method of multiple systems estimation (MSE). Most major artists’ works are listed in one catalogue raisonné, but there are five catalogues purporting to list Modigliani paintings. These can be treated as list sources from which MSE can be applied. We obtain estimates by following the classical MSE approach using log-linear models, and compare these with estimates obtained via a Bayesian non-parametric latent class approach. We also consider the impact of fake paintings through sensitivity analyses. Our estimates point to there being around 20–120 unattributed Modigliani paintings.
Concentration properties of fractional posterior in 1-bit matrix completion
Authors: Mai The Tien
Published: January 2025

The problem of estimating a matrix based on a set of observed entries is commonly referred to as the matrix completion problem. In this work, we specifically address the scenario of binary observations, often termed as 1-bit matrix completion. While numerous studies have explored Bayesian and frequentist methods for real-value matrix completion, there has been a lack of theoretical exploration regarding Bayesian approaches in 1-bit matrix completion. We tackle this gap by considering a general, non-uniform sampling scheme and providing theoretical assurances on the efficacy of the fractional posterior. Our contributions include obtaining concentration results for the fractional posterior and demonstrating its effectiveness in recovering the underlying parameter matrix. We accomplish this using two distinct types of prior distributions: low-rank factorization priors and a spectral scaled Student prior, with the latter requiring fewer assumptions. Importantly, our results exhibit an adaptive nature by not mandating prior knowledge of the rank of the parameter matrix. Our findings are comparable to those found in the frequentist literature, yet demand fewer restrictive assumptions.