bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Leveraging Economic Efficiency for CO2 Reduction and Energy Transition: The Role of Climate Vulnerability, GVC Integration, Digitalization and Energy Intensity
Authors: Wang Qiang , Liu Tong , Li Rongrong
Published: February 2025

This study investigates the nonlinear effects of economic efficiency on CO2 reduction and energy transition, with a particular focus on advancing SDGs 7, 9, and 13. Using panel data from 61 countries, the analysis applies a slacks‐based measure of directional distance functions (SBM‐DDF) and threshold regression models to explore the complex relationship between economic efficiency, CO2 emissions, and energy transition. Key findings reveal that while economic efficiency has generally improved over time, significant regional disparities remain. Improvements in economic efficiency lead to substantial reductions in CO2 emissions and promote energy transition, but the relationship is nonlinear, influenced by factors such as climate vulnerability, global value chain (GVC) integration, digitalization, and energy intensity. Heightened climate vulnerability and deeper integration into GVC amplify the emission‐reducing effects of economic efficiency, whereas increased digitalization initially attenuates its decarbonization impact before shifting toward a suppressive effect, while concurrently reversing its influence on energy transition from inhibitive to facilitative. Furthermore, under higher energy intensity, economic efficiency exerts a more pronounced influence on both carbon abatement and the acceleration of energy transition. The study also highlights heterogeneity across income levels, with upper‐middle‐income countries experiencing stronger positive effects. These findings emphasize the need for tailored, context‐sensitive policies that account for regional and sectoral dynamics to optimize economic efficiency for sustainable development.
Synthesis of Polypyrrole‐Graphene Oxide (PPy/GO) from Deep Eutectic Solvent and Its Characterization for Determination of Metronidazole Pharmaceutical Substance Using Spectrofluorometric Technique
Authors: Ismail Hani K. , Qader Aryan F. , Omer Rebaz A. , Alesary Hasan F. , Umran Haider M. , Kareem Aseel A.
Published: February 2025

A polypyrrole‐graphene oxide (PPy/GO) nanocomposite was made chemically using a polymerization method in deep eutectic solvents made up of choline chloride and propionic acid in a 1:2 molar ratio. The purpose of this study is to examine the feasibility and efficacy of PPy/GO nanocomposite in the detection of metronidazole in pharmaceutical formulations utilizing spectrofluorometric techniques. Characterization of the synthesized PPy/GO nanocomposite was conducted using several methods such as transmission electron microscopy (TEM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA), and X‐ray diffraction (XRD). The optimal parameters such as pH buffer solution, potential interferences, reaction duration, concentrations of metronidazole, and interference, and test in real sample were examined. Under the established ideal conditions, the curve of calibration exhibited a linear range of 0.3–20 µg/mL, with a correlation coefficient (R2) of 0.98712. The limit of detection (LOD) was 0.09 µg/mL, while the limit of quantification (LOQ) was 0.29 µg/mL. The relative standard deviation (RSD) readings for five replicates of three metronidazole standard solutions (0.3, 10, or 20 µg/mL) were assessed, yielding RSD percentages ranging from 1.29% to 2.34% and error percentages from −3.33% to 1.20%, thereby demonstrating the method's precision and accuracy. This study provides a viable and useful way to detect metronidazole in pharmaceutical samples. Moreover, the data indicate that PPy/GO may constitute a novel category of fluorescence quenching reagent for medicinal applications. This approach is effective for regular analysis and quality control assays because of its relative freedom from interferences.
A Heterojunction Piezoelectric Antimicrobial Asymmetric Hydrogel for Dynamic Wound Healing and Monitoring
Authors: Liu Kuilong , Zhou Ziyi , Wang Haibo , Li Qin , Chen Binling , Wang Xiaoyue , Nie Jun , Ma Guiping
Published: February 2025

Dynamic wound care presents significant challenges for conventional dressings due to the complex environment and high‐frequency motion associated with such injuries. In this study, a multifunctional photo‐crosslinked piezoelectric hydrogel (OAPS) is developed, incorporating heterojunction Se‐doped KH570 modified BaTiO3 nanoparticles (Se‐BT570 NPs) as a core component, and designed to address antimicrobial and monitoring needs in wound care, particularly at sites with high‐frequency movement. The OAPS hydrogel effectively utilizes the inherent high‐frequency motion in dynamic wounds, enhancing antimicrobial efficacy and enabling real‐time monitoring of wound and human health statuses. This is achieved through the synergistic effects of piezoelectric properties and nano‐heterostructures that enable self‐driven charge transfer. Such integration allows for dual applications in both diagnosis and treatment. Experimental results demonstrated that the OAPS hydrogel exhibits excellent mechanical strength and adhesive properties, effectively adapting to high‐frequency motion. Additionally, the hydrogel can be activated by dynamic wound environments to perform antimicrobial and wound monitoring functions, significantly accelerating the healing of dynamic wounds, with an efficacy rate of 99.75%. This study highlights the potential of piezoelectric nanomaterials in dynamic wound healing, offering a promising strategy for managing complex, dynamic wound care.
Is a New Economic System Necessary to Address Climate Change?
Authors: Stuart Diana , Gunderson Ryan , Petersen Brian
Published: February 2025

An increasing number of leading scientists have stated that societies must transition away from a growing economic system to address climate change. Other scholars have called for general “system change” or specifically transitioning to a postcapitalist economy. Yet is a new economic system necessary to address the climate crisis? Answering this question requires examining the relevant research and empirical evidence about the relationships between economic growth, energy use, and greenhouse gas emissions as well as a deeper understanding of what defines the current economic system and how changing that system might allow for more rapid and effective mitigation measures. This overview examines key elements of this discussion including: if a capitalist system is growth‐dependent, the empirical linkages between economic growth and climate change, what alternative economic systems have been proposed, and what a transition to a postcapitalist economic system aimed to address climate change might entail.
A T2 Translational Science Modified Delphi Study: The Ethical Triage and Treatment of Entrapped and Mangled Extremities in Resource‐Scarce Environments
Authors: Weinstein Eric S. , Gilbert Zachary , Gosney James , Weinstein Brielle , Wild Hannah B. , Cuthbertson Joseph , Leming Melissa , Semmons Rachel , O'Mathúna Dónal , Montan Carl , Gosselin Richard , Burkle Frederick “Skip”
Published: February 2025

Background

There is a lack of ethical triage and treatment guidelines for the entrapped and mangled extremity (E&ME) in resource‐scarce environments (RSE): mass casualty incidents, low‐ to middle‐income countries, complex humanitarian emergencies including conflict, and prolonged transport times (RSE). The aim of this study is to use a modified Delphi (mD) approach to produce statements to develop treatment guidelines of the E&ME in RSE.

Method

Experts rated their agreement with each statement on a 7‐point linear numeric scale. Consensus amongst experts was defined as a standard deviation ≤ 1. Statements attaining consensus after the first round moved to the final report. Those not attaining consensus moved to the second round in which experts were shown the mean response of the expert panel and their own response for the opportunity to reconsider their rating for that round. Statements attaining consensus after the second round moved to the final report. This process was repeated in the third round. Statements attaining consensus were moved to the final report. The remaining statements did not attain consensus.

Results

Seventy‐seven experts participated in the first, 75 in the second, and 74 in the third round. Twenty‐three statements attained consensus. Twenty‐one statements did not attain consensus.

Conclusion

A modified Delphi technique was used to establish consensus regarding the numerous complex factors influencing treatment of the E&ME in RSEs. Twenty‐three statements attained consensus and can be incorporated into guidelines to advance the ethical treatment of the E&ME in RSEs.
Wormhole-induced effective coupling in SYK chains
Authors: Basteiro Pablo , Di Giulio Giuseppe , Erdmenger Johanna , Meyer René , Xian Zhuo-Yu
Published: February 2025

Abstract

Inhomogeneous quantum chains have recently been considered in the context of developing novel discrete realizations of holographic dualities. To advance this programme, we explore the ground states of infinite chains with large number N of Majorana fermions on each site, which interact via on-site q-body Sachdev-Ye-Kitaev (SYK) couplings, as well as via additional inhomogeneous hopping terms between nearest-neighbour sites. The hopping parameters are either aperiodically or randomly distributed. Our approach unifies techniques to solve SYK-like models in the large N limit with a real-space renormalization group method known as strong-disorder renormalization group (SDRG). We show that the SDRG decimation of SYK dots linked by a strong hopping induces an effective hopping interaction between their neighbouring sites. If two decimated sites are nearest neighbours, in the large q limit their local ground states admit a holographic dual description in terms of eternal traversable wormholes. At the end of the SDRG procedure, we obtain a factorised ground state of the infinite inhomogeneous SYK chains that we consider, which has a spacetime description involving a sequence of wormholes. This amounts to a local near-boundary description of the bulk geometry in the context of discrete holography.
Retrospective analysis of earthquake related crush injurie patients in ICU: 6-February earthquake in Türkiye
Authors: Temel Sahin , Yuksel Recep Civan , Kaynar Ahmet Safa , Caliskan Mustafa , Demir Berna , Alkan Mustafa , Ulger Birkan , Deveci Kamil , Sipahioglu Hilal , Metin Hatice , Kayaalti Selda , Kaya Elif , Unal Canan Baran , Esmaoglu Aliye , Sungur Murat , Goksuluk Dincer , Gundogan Kursat
Published: February 2025

Background

On February 6, 2023 a devastating earthquake hit the south-eastern region of Türkiye and thousands of people were either injured or died. The aim was to determine the characteristics, treatment and clinical outcomes of critically ill patients with crush injuries in ICU.

Subjects/methods

This study was performed with a retrospective design in ICU. Patients were included as follows; effected 6 February earthquake, need ICU treatment and being crush syndrome.

Results

A total of 62 patients were included. The mean age was 41 ± 19 years and 47% were male. The median APACHE II score was 14. The most common ICU admission was multitrauma and crush injury. A total of %77 patients were needed surgical procedure (most of them extremities surgery (36%)and fasciotomy 36% due to compartment syndrome) and %24 patients had extremity amputation. AKI was developed in %65 of patients. A total of 26 (%40) patients were received RRT. The mNUTRIC score (p = 0.022), the BUN (p = 0.043) and the blood lactate level (p = 0.012) were identified as independent risk factors for 28-day mortality. An independent risk factor for limb amputation was identified in patients with high APACHE II and SOFA scores (p = 0.026, p = 0.034, respectively). The 28-day mortality was 13%.

Conclusions

As a result of the study, most of the patients need surgical operations and a quarter of patients required extremity amputation. AKI developed at a high rate and 40% of those patients needed RRT. The mNUTRIC score was found to be the most powerful predictor of mortality at 28 days.
Efficacy and Safety of Conjoint Fascial Sheath (CFS) Suspension in the Treatment of Blepharoptosis: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Ji Dongshuo , Liu Ying , Han Xing , Hu Shouduo , Zhao Yanyong
Published: February 2025

Background

This study focuses on blepharoptosis, a common condition in oculoplastic surgery characterized by drooping of the upper eyelid. The efficacy and safety of using the combined fascial sheath (CFS) to correct blepharoptosis are still unclear.

Methods

A systematic search encompassing four databases (PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library) up to December 15, 2023, was conducted. The meta-analysis was performed using Stata 14.

Results

A total of 10 studies involving 683 patients were included. The meta-analysis indicated a significant improvement in mean marginal reflex distance 1 (MRD1) in the CFS group compared to the control group (WMD: 2.33; 95% CI 1.61 to 3.06; I
2=97.2%, P < 0.001). Additionally, patient satisfaction in the CFS group was significantly higher than in the control group (OR: 5.28; 95% CI 1.71 to 16.32; I
2=0, P = 0.683), and the complication rate was significantly lower (OR 0.26; 95% CI 0.14 to 0.48; I
2=0, P = 0.899). However, no significant difference in curative effect was observed between the two groups (RD: 0.15; 95% CI −0.01 to 0.31; I
2=88.3%, P < 0.001).

Conclusion

CFS suspension has the potential to significantly improve MRD1 and patient satisfaction, while exhibiting a low incidence of complications and a favorable safety profile. These findings indicate that clinicians might consider CFS suspension as a viable treatment option for blepharoptosis. However, it is important to exercise caution due to inter-study heterogeneity and the limitations of current analysis.

Level of Evidence III

This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266
Komatiitic parental magmas of the Archean Ujaragssuit Nunât ultramafic body, SW Greenland, identified from spinel chemistry
Authors: Nishio I. , Morishita T. , Waterton P. , Tamura A. , Itano K. , Serre S. H. , Plesner J. L. , Takahashi K. , Tani K. , Harigane Y. , Sawada H. , Szilas K.
Published: February 2025

Archean and Proterozoic layered intrusions represent an important portion of the igneous rock archive and their parental magma composition may provide crucial insights into the Earth’s magmatic and geodynamic evolution. Both komatiitic and boninitic parental magmas have been suggested for several major Archean layered intrusions, which could imply different tectonic settings for their formation. We studied the ~ 3.2 Ga Ujaragssuit Nunât layered ultramafic body from southern West Greenland (Ujaragssuit ultramafic body), which contains some of Earth’s oldest chromitites. Spinel major and trace elements, and whole-rock platinum group element compositions in massive chromitites from the Ujaragssuit ultramafic body, largely preserve primary igneous compositions. In contrast, spinels from most silicate-dominated ultramafic rocks were altered by metamorphic and metasomatic events. We collated a large spinel dataset to investigate variations in their parental magma compositions and tectonic settings using multivariate statistical analysis. Both the massive chromitites from the Ujaragssuit ultramafic body and chromitites from other Archean and Proterozoic ultramafic layered intrusion show high Cr/(Cr + Al) and Ti/V ratios in spinel, and high whole-rock Ir and Ru contents, which are consistent with those of komatiitic spinel. The compositions of chromitites suggest that the parental magmas of the Ujaragssuit ultramafic body are komatiitic, implying that the formation of these layered intrusions was related to mantle plumes. Our recognition of a komatiitic ultramafic body in North Atlantic Craton, where no komatiite has previously been reported, suggests that komatiitic magmas were a common feature among cratons.
Examination of the relationship between the empathic tendencies and sleep quality of caregivers of cancer patients
Authors: Kerkez Müjde , Yiğit Muhammet Faruk , Yaztürk Zeynep
Published: February 2025

Purpose

The present study aims to reveal the relationship between the empathic tendencies and sleep quality of caregivers of cancer patients.

Material and method

This cross-sectional study was conducted with caregivers of cancer patients registered in the oncology unit of a hospital between May and July 2024 (n = 346). The study data were collected using a sociodemographic information form, the Empathic Tendency Scale, and the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index. The data were analyzed using the Pearson correlation and hierarchical regression analyses as well as descriptive statistics.

Findings.

59.5% of the participants were female and 88.2% lived with patients. 62.7% of the cancer patients were male and 61.1% were partially dependent in daily life activities. The caregivers had a mean total score of 70.58 ± 16.85 on the Empathic Tendency Scale and a mean total score of 4.40 ± 3.94 on the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index. It was found that there was a negative, strong, and statistically significant relationship between the mean total scores on the Empathic Tendency Scale and the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (r = − 0.924; p < 0.001). According to the hierarchical regression model, certain sociodemographic features of the caregivers explained the variance in empathic tendency (Adj. R
2 = 0.607; p < 0.001), whereas when sleep quality components were added to the model, the variance in empathic tendency was explained (Adj. R
2 = 0.896; p < 0.001).

Conclusion

The caregivers of cancer patients were found to have high empathic tendencies, which was associated with high sleep quality. Furthermore, low empathic tendencies among the caregivers were found to be primarily associated with increasing length of care and advancing patient age. The findings underscore the pivotal role that empathic approaches play in enhancing the quality of care, underscoring the necessity for augmented interventions that prioritize a compassionate approach, and the management of empathy in caregivers of cancer patients.
Routine measurement in low back pain; towards a pragmatic patient-reported productivity cost outcome measurement using the institute for medical technology assessment productivity cost questionnaire
Authors: Ademiluyi Adekunle Z. , van Asselt Antoinette D. I. , Reneman Michiel F.
Published: February 2025

Purpose

The iMTA productivity cost questionnaire (iPCQ) has been recommended as a measurement tool for productivity cost, however, its use in routine care is hindered by the length of this questionnaire (18 questions). This study developed and tested a short-form (SF-) iPCQ.

Method

A secondary analysis of the Groningen Spine Cohort’s baseline data from patients with low back pain referred for tertiary care was performed. Six SFs were evaluated against the comprehensive iPCQ. Spearman correlation (r), intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC, agreement), standard error of measurement (SEM), and Bland-Altman’s plot tested the congruence of the SFs with the comprehensive iPCQ.

Results

The sample consisted of 1220 patients with low back pain. The SF version with the highest correlation (SF-3; 7 items) with the comprehensive iPCQ had r = 0.99, ICC = 0.99, SEM = 295, while the SF with the least number of items (SF-6; 5 items) had r = 0.84, ICC = 0.91, SEM = 2063. The mean productivity cost estimates of SF-3 and SF-6 were €3414 (95% CI: 3036–3791) and €3333 (95% CI: 2970–3696) respectively while that for the comprehensive iPCQ amounted to €3456 (95% CI: 3189–3720).

Conclusion

A SF with seven questions was developed with a high agreement with the comprehensive iPCQ. Initial clinimetric testing was satisfactory. Further assessment is recommended.
How home-based informal businesses contribute to ‘shrinking domesticities’ in a Zimbabwean town
Authors: Magidi Martin
Published: February 2025

This study examines the phenomenon of ‘shrinking domesticities’ in Norton, Zimbabwe, focusing on the impact of informal home-based entrepreneurship on living spaces. It argues that these enterprises diminish domestic space in some residential neighbourhoods in the town. Through data gathered from ethnographic interviews and observations, the research explores the transformation of urban livelihoods in Norton because of industrial decline. It reveals that entrepreneurs repurpose domestic spaces into workspaces in already overcrowded areas, exacerbating the town’s housing shortage. The study illustrates that while the phenomenon of shrinking domesticities has primarily been linked to the planned reduction of house sizes in Western cities, it manifests differently in Norton. Here, entrepreneurs engage in economic activities within their homes, influencing both interior and exterior spaces. This research identifies and addresses a significant gap in urban housing scholarship about African cities. Although the concept has been widely investigated in Western contexts, this paper applies it within the African context, where it arises primarily as an unplanned grassroots response to socioeconomic challenges rather than as policy initiatives. Additionally, there exists a shortage of academic literature connecting informal businesses to housing in the region, and how their interplay leads to the reduction of domestic space.
Emotion Crafting and Daily Psychological Functioning: A 7-Day Diary Study
Authors: Hernandez Hernandez Maria Elena , Taşkesen Nureda , van der Kaap-Deeder Jolene
Published: February 2025

Although emotion regulation (ER) is a well-researched topic, the proactive regulation of positive emotions (conceptualized as emotion crafting—EC) grants further investigation. Recent research has shown that EC related to higher levels of life satisfaction, vitality, wellbeing, and a lower level of internalizing symptoms through positive affect. Building on this previous cross-sectional study, this research aimed to examine how changes in (planned) EC related to changes in psychological functioning. A 7-day diary study was conducted among 121 Norwegian participants (61.2% female; Mage = 29.41 years, SD = 11.80; range 18–62), where they indicated their planned EC and positive emotion goals in the morning, and reported their actual EC and psychological functioning in the evening. Data were analysed through two-level multilevel path analyses. Planned EC related positively to actual EC, while actual EC related positively to wellbeing and negatively to illbeing through positive and negative affect, both at the between-person and within-person levels. These findings were overall maintained after controlling for other ER measures and when examining lagged effects (but not when controlling for same-day outcomes). Proactively engaging in behaviours aimed at maintaining or strengthening positive emotions is beneficial for individuals’ daily psychological functioning. Future research is needed to determine the causality of the effects of EC, and whether the effects of EC can be generalised across more diverse samples.
Calibrated explanations for regression
Authors: Löfström Tuwe , Löfström Helena , Johansson Ulf , Sönströd Cecilia , Matela Rudy
Published: February 2025

Artificial Intelligence (AI) methods are an integral part of modern decision support systems. The best-performing predictive models used in AI-based decision support systems lack transparency. Explainable Artificial Intelligence (XAI) aims to create AI systems that can explain their rationale to human users. Local explanations in XAI can provide information about the causes of individual predictions in terms of feature importance. However, a critical drawback of existing local explanation methods is their inability to quantify the uncertainty associated with a feature’s importance. This paper introduces an extension of a feature importance explanation method, Calibrated Explanations, previously only supporting classification, with support for standard regression and probabilistic regression, i.e., the probability that the target is below an arbitrary threshold. The extension for regression keeps all the benefits of Calibrated Explanations, such as calibration of the prediction from the underlying model with confidence intervals, uncertainty quantification of feature importance, and allows both factual and counterfactual explanations. Calibrated Explanations for regression provides fast, reliable, stable, and robust explanations. Calibrated Explanations for probabilistic regression provides an entirely new way of creating probabilistic explanations from any ordinary regression model, allowing dynamic selection of thresholds. The method is model agnostic with easily understood conditional rules. An implementation in Python is freely available on GitHub and for installation using both and , making the results in this paper easily replicable.
Extensions of the constitutive relations to describe the response of compressible nonlinear Kelvin–Voigt solids
Authors: de Castro Motta Julia , Rajagopal Kumbakonan , Saccomandi Giuseppe
Published: February 2025

This paper investigates the propagation of longitudinal waves in some possible models of compressible Kelvin-Voigt viscoelastic solids. With respect to the elastic part two extensions of the classical neo-Hookean material model are proposed: the A-model, which incorporates a logarithmic volumetric function, and the B-model, based on the deviatoric invariants and a power-law volumetric function. For both models, we assume the same dissipative part given by the classical Navier–Stokes constitutive equation. These models are analyzed for their ability to describe a recovery phenomenon, ensuring conditions for monotonicity, boundedness, and uniqueness of solutions. The propagation of longitudinal traveling waves is proved. We show that the equation governing such motions is indeed a special case of the viscous p-system and a weakly nonlinear analysis demonstrates the emergence of Burgers’ equations.
Solitaire of independence
Authors: Salo Ville , Schabanel Juliette
Published: February 2025

In this paper, we study a reversible process (more precisely, a groupoid/group action) resembling the classical 15-puzzle, where the legal moves are to “move the unique hole inside a translate of a shape S”. Such a process can be defined for any finite subset S of a group, and we refer to such a process as simply “solitaire”. We develop a general theory of solitaire, and then concentrate on the simplest possible example, solitaire for the plane

$$\mathbb {Z}^2$$

Z

2

, and S the triangle shape (equivalently, any three-element set in general position). In this case, we give a polynomial time algorithm that puts any finite subset of the plane in normal form using solitaire moves, and show that the solitaire orbit of a line of consecutive ones—the line orbit—is completely characterised by the notion of a so-called fill matrix. We show that the diameter of the line orbit, as a graph with edges the solitaire moves, is cubic. We show that analogous results hold for the square shape, but indicate some shapes (still on the group

$$\mathbb {Z}^2$$

Z

2

) where this is less immediate. We then explain in detail the connection of the solitaire to TEP and more generally permutive subshifts. Namely, the solitaire is a closure property of various sets of subsets of the group that can be associated to such a subshift, such as the independence, spanning and filling sets.
Occurrence and characterization of fungal species in medicinal plants from South Africa
Authors: Oladeji Oluwaseun Mary , Phoku Judith Zanele , Adelusi Oluwasola Abayomi , Aasa Oluwakemi Adeola , Njobeh Patrick Berka
Published: February 2025

Fungal contamination of medicinal plants poses significant health risks due to the potential production of mycotoxins. In South Africa (SA), medicinal plants are widely used in traditional healthcare, but their safety is often compromised by fungal colonization. This study investigated 36 different medicinal plants purchased from Faraday Muthi Market, Johannesburg, SA, for fungal level using both macro- and microscopic approaches, and their identities were confirmed by molecular means. The fungal loads of the mycoflora recovered from the medical plants ranged from 1.8 × 104 CFU/g to 2 × 107 CFU/g, exceeding the WHO regulatory limit of 1 × 103 CFU/g. Furthermore, a total of 164 fungal species from nine genera, including Aspergillus (39.6%), Penicillium (19.5%), and Fusarium (9.7%), other notable fungal genera such as Alternaria (5.5%), Mucor (5.4%), Rhizopus (5.4%), Chaetomium (4.2%), Cladosporium (3.6%), Emericella nidulans (3.6%) and Epicoccum (3.0%) were also recovered from the medicinal plants. Furthermore, A. niger (10.97%) was the most prevalent among all the identified fungal species. Consuming fungal-contaminated medicinal plants poses significant human health risks. The findings highlights the need for strict quality control during the cultivation, harvesting, and processing of medicinal plants in South Africa and across Africa to mitigate fungal contamination risks. Future research should focus on developing strategies to reduce fungal loads in medicinal plants.
The importance of reactive silica for maintaining soil health
Authors: Schaller Jörg , Kleber Markus , Puppe Daniel , Stein Mathias , Sommer Michael , Rillig Matthias C.
Published: February 2025

Background and aim

Soil health is vital for the sustainability of ecosystem services such as food and fiber production, nutrient cycling and water supply. Soil health can be assessed through a combination of physical, biological and chemical metrics. There is emerging evidence that reactive silica is a strong factor controlling soil functions.

Scope

We explain how reactive silica, specifically dissolved silicic acid and amorphous silica, can be used as a new metric for assessing soil health, complementing traditional metrics or even substituting for them.

Conclusion

The pivotal role of reactive silica for soil health is particularly important under stress conditions that are typically associated with drought and soil degradation. The status of reactive silica indicates soil degradation earlier than the currently used metrics, because reactive silica depletion is followed by soil degradation. We recommend suitable methods and benchmarks for assessing reactive silica. Furthermore, we suggest further research to improve our understanding of the importance of reactive silica for soil health. We call upon the soil research community to include reactive silica as a metric for soil health assessment.
Predicting Extensional Behaviors of Colloidal Inks from Shear-Based Models for Direct Ink Writing
Authors: Hoque M. Naimul , Christopher Gordon F.
Published: February 2025

Colloidal-based inks have immense potential to be used in direct ink writing 3D printing if their printability can be evaluated, which is typically difficult. In this work, the extrudability of colloidal-based inks of moderate volume fraction for direct ink writing is characterized using the dripping-onto-substrate method and compared to predictions derived from a piecewise power-law model based on simple shear rheology. In extension, filaments from the colloidal ink exhibited elasto-capillary thinning that can be modeled as a power-law fluid. However, the model inks exhibit a much greater degree of thinning than is predicted from the shear-based model. This disagreement occurs due to the different flow regimes between the shear-based measurements and extensional measurements based on different Deborah numbers calculated using a Brownian time scale for the fluid relaxation time. The Deborah numbers of the extensional experiments are several orders of magnitude higher than shear values. This indicates that in extension, the particles within the ink do not have time to relax, resulting in variation of volume fraction within the filament. Despite the mismatch between the shear and extensional behavior, this method still can be utilized to predict the filament breakup time, extensional viscosities, and optimal printing height for printing without breakup or clean filament breakup.
Raw Trout Fillets Coated with Carvacrol-Loaded Gelatin Nanofibers: Changes in Microbiological, Texture, and Odor Compounds During Cold Storage
Authors: Cetinkaya Turgay , Ayseli Mehmet Turan
Published: February 2025

Carvacrol-containing gelatin nanofibers were successfully produced, characterized, and applied on farmed trout fillets as coating material. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images revealed that the presence of carvacrol increased the average fiber diameter from 152.3 to 217 nm and less droplet formation was observed after carvacrol addition. Young’s modulus and stability of the nanofibers were found to increase with the increasing weight percentage of carvacrol. The applied nanocoating treatment positively slowed the growth of bacteria, yeast, and mold throughout 9 days of storage (p < 0.05). The decrease in hardness was slower in the gelatin nanofibers containing the 7.5% carvacrol (GLC7.5)-coated group compared to the uncoated group in the first 5 days (p > 0.05). A total of 14 volatile organic compounds (VOCs) were identified by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC–MS) in the uncoated and GLC7.5-coated samples as volatile indicators of flavor deterioration. Volatile substances that cause an off-flavor in the fillets were found at a lower rate in the GLC7.5-coated group and showed higher sensory odor scores. The most important aroma compounds identified in the samples were dimethyl disulfide (DMDS) (garlic-like), dimethyl trisulfide (rotten egg), 3-methyl butanoic acid (cheesy), phenol (phenolic), and 1H-indole (fecal). Additionally, carvacrol (spicy) was found to be an important contributor of odor to meat with a GLC7.5 coating. The results showed that carvacrol-loaded nanocoatings have antimicrobial and antifungal properties that affect the formation of volatile compounds in fish meat. Therefore, the nanocoating technique could be useful in preventing spoilage and boosting the odor attributes of fresh fish products.
Morse Index Stability of Biharmonic Maps in Critical Dimension
Authors: Michelat Alexis
Published: February 2025

In December 2022, Da Lio, Gianocca, and Rivière developed a new theory to prove the upper semi-continuity of the sum of the Morse index and the nullity in geometric analysis (Da Lio, Gianocca, and Rivière in Morse index stability for critical points to conformally invariant Lagrangians, 2023, arXiv:2212.03124), and applied it to conformally invariant problems in dimension 2—which include harmonic maps. Their method, quickly extended to Willmore immersions and later to other geometric settings, is applied in this article to the Morse stability of biharmonic maps in critical dimension 4. A key step in the proof is to obtain an energy quantization in

$$L^{2,1}$$

L

2
,
1

(the pre-dual of the Marcinkiewicz space

$$L^{2,\infty }$$

L

2
,
∞

of weakly squared-integrable functions), and we prove a general result to establish this strong energy quantization, which allows us to recover previous results in a unified fashion.
Quantitative Visualisierung von HTseq-Daten
Authors: Kitanovski Simo , Wollek Kai , Hoffmann Daniel
Published: February 2025

High-throughput sequencing (HTseq) characterizes complex entities at the level of nucleic acid sequences, e. g. the transcriptome in a biopsy at cellular resolution, or an immune-receptor-repertoire. The complexity of HTseq data makes analysis challenging. Suitable methods are often missing. We therefore develop computational tools for quantitative visualization (quantitative modelling of data, then visualization of meaningful summaries) as illustrated with two examples, scBubble-tree and ClustIRR.
Pflanzliche RNA-Editoren in diversen genetischen Systemen
Authors: Lesch Elena , Schallenberg-Rüdinger Mareike
Published: February 2025

Given their endosymbiotic origin, plant mitochondria and plastids possess their own genomes. Within these genomes, pyrimidine transition mutations are enriched. They are fixed on RNA level through nuclear-encoded Pentatricopeptide Repeat (PPR) editing factors. We successfully expressed selected plant organellar PPR editors in diverse genetic contexts to investigate their applicability, specificity and mode of operation.
Homogenization of convolution type semigroups in high contrast media
Authors: Piatnitski Andrey , Zhizhina Elena
Published: February 2025

The paper deals with the asymptotic properties of semigroups associated with Markov jump processes in a high contrast periodic medium in

$$\mathbb {R}^d$$

R

d

,

$$d\ge 1$$

d
≥
1

. In order to study the limit behaviour of these semigroups we equip the corresponding Markov processes with an extra variable that characterizes the position of the process inside the period, and show that the limit dynamics of these two-component processes remains Markov. We describe the limit process and prove the convergence of the corresponding semigroups as well as the convergence in law of the extended processes in the path space. Since the components of the limit process are coupled, the dynamics of the first (spacial) component need not have a semigroup property. We derive the evolution equation with a memory term for the dynamics of this component of the limit process. We also discuss the construction of the limit semigroup in the

$$L^2$$

L
2

space and study the spectrum of its generator.
Diabetic Ketoacidosis in Pediatric Emergency Medicine: Risk Factors, Myths, and Evidence-Based Management of Complications
Authors: Alsabri Mohammed , Rath Shree , Okaruefe Cynthia Oghenekome , Yoo Patrick , Aziz Mayam Mohamed , Shehada Wafaa , Abdelrahman Salma Tamer , Carr Lauren A.
Published: February 2025

Purpose

Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is a common condition among type 1 diabetics, commonly affecting those below the age of 20.

Methods

A comprehensive literature search was conducted in databases like PubMed to identify primary studies conducted in children with DKA. Finally, 79 studies were included for qualitative synthesis.

Results

The disease is characterized by acute-onset metabolic and pathological derangements, necessitating immediate intervention. With the rising incidence, concerns have been emerging regarding the disparities in the presentation and treatment of DKA among different countries with inequitable resources. Within its management lies the common misconceptions, both among patients and primary physicians, prohibiting an optimistic approach to the disease. Pediatric children in particular need specialized treatment and care during an episode of DKA due to its long-term cognitive and neurological sequelae. Hence, efforts have been undertaken to ensure minimization of neurological damage when treating DKA. While guidelines are in place for treatment of DKA, there are considerable differences in their protocols across different regions.

Conclusion

It is imperative to analyze recent evidence and continually update treatment guidelines for DKA. Additionally, maximal efforts need to be taken to bridge the gap between different nations, allowing accessibility to equitable resources to all.
Fatigue performance of welded joints made of high-strength steel under variable amplitude loading conditions and varying mean stress
Authors: Grönlund Kiia , Ahola Antti , Lipiäinen Kalle , Pesonen Tero , Björk Timo , Moshtaghi Masoud
Published: February 2025

The study experimentally and analytically investigates the effects of variable amplitude (VA) load sequence and varying mean stress on the fatigue strength of welded joints made of high-strength steel. The variable amplitude load spectra were constructed according to a Gaussian normal distribution, and the test series of increasing mean stress (constant maximum stress of the VA load) and decreasing mean stress (constant minimum stress) with identical equivalent stresses were implemented. The applied load spectra incorporated a high peak stress in the beginning of the block to further study the overload and residual stress relaxation effects. In addition, a notch-based fatigue assessment approach, the 4R method, was applied to these load cases. Analyses were conducted with the 4R method to analytically compute local elastic–plastic behavior, and the sequential effect of VA load cycles were considered in the mean stress correction. The fatigue test results showed that the mean stress had a significant impact on the fatigue strength of the welded joints in spite of identical equivalent loads. The difference between the mean fatigue strengths (Δσ
c,50% = 130 MPa and Δσ
c,50% = 80 MPa) of the two-test series was approximately 63% with the higher fatigue strength corresponding to low mean stress loading conditions.
Silicon alleviates drought stress by up-regulating physiological and biochemical responses in two contrasting bread wheat cultivars
Authors: Ashfaq Waseem , Kaleem Muhammad , Brodie Graham , Fuentes Sigfredo , Pang Alexis , Gupta Dorin
Published: February 2025

Drought stress (DS) substantially reduces plant growth and productivity in a rainfed cropping environment. Silicon (Si) has been recognized for its potential to alleviate the detrimental effects of various environmental stresses. However, its precise mechanisms in mitigating early growth DS and its impact on related physiological and biochemical attributes remain less understood. The present study, conducted in a glasshouse using a complete randomized design with four replications, was aimed to explore the role of pre-sowing Si treatment on two contrasting wheat cultivars (RAC875, drought-tolerant; Kukri, drought-susceptible) in mitigating the physiological and biochemical disruptions induced by early growth DS (14 days at 38 ± 3% pot field capacity). The results showed that Si treatment significantly increased the number of productive tillers and fresh weight in both cultivars under DS. Compared to the control (DS without Si treatment), Si treatment significantly enhanced chlorophyll content (RAC875, 8.7%; Kukri, 12.7%), relative water content (RAC875, 10.8%; Kukri, 18.1%), and chlorophyll fluorescence (RAC875, 10.1%; Kukri, 22.3%) under DS conditions. Additionally, Si treatment increased total soluble sugars, fructose content, and free amino acids while reducing proline content and lipid peroxidation concentrations in both cultivars under DS. Moreover, Si treatment significantly boosted cellular antioxidant activities, including ascorbate peroxidase (RAC875, 11.3%; Kukri, 9.2%), catalase (RAC875, 22.2%; Kukri, 25.5%), and peroxidase (RAC875, 19%; Kukri, 15.8%) under DS. Overall, these results show that Si effectively alleviates early growth DS by up-regulating antioxidants, osmoprotectants, and the photochemical process, thereby improving plant growth and productivity through enhanced photosynthesis.
Pesticide use and the case for toxicity-based taxation: evidence from citrus greening in Florida
Authors: Rizk Audrey , Singerman Ariel
Published: February 2025

Farmers make pest and disease management decisions without facing the social costs derived from their input choices. But given the sizable externalities involved, there is a rationale for government intervention. We model the profit-maximizing problem of a representative farmer by specifying a functional form for the damage function that incorporates the biological impact of the pathogen-vector system on yield as well as the abating impact of insecticides on the vector population. We use citrus greening disease in Florida as a case study because farmers there adopted an insecticide program that caused toxicity per acre to increase by 472%. Our simulation results show that a tax rate based on toxicity provides farmers with a strong incentive to substitute highly toxic chemicals with less toxic alternatives. Such a tax is also more efficient relative to a quantity-based tax that achieves a similar reduction in toxicity because it results in a significantly lower reduction in farmers’ yield and profit.
First record of Prionotus punctatus (Triglidae) in central Patagonian waters, Southwest Atlantic: further evidence on the tropicalization of the Patagonian Sea
Authors: Jacobi Kevin Josue , Navoa Ximena , Cochia Pablo Daniel , Bovcon Nelson Darío
Published: February 2025

A specimen of Prionotus punctatus was caught in Bahía Engaño, Chubut Province, Patagonia, Argentina. This extends the known distribution by 900 km and a 5.5° further south from its previous southernmost record. This record increases the number of species of the genus Prionotus and the fish diversity of central Patagonia. The presence of P. punctatus along with other recent reports of fish of tropical and subtropical lineages in central Patagonia adds new evidence on the ongoing tropicalization of the Patagonian Sea.
Ontogenetic habitat utilization of a coral reef fish, Acanthurus xanthopterus Valenciennes, 1835 in a tropical estuarine system, South India; A first report with its morphological and molecular descriptions
Authors: Balachandran Nidhin , Jose Deepak , Mahadevan Harikrishnan , Kutteri Sruthi , Mozhikulangara Rithin Raj
Published: February 2025

Providing nursery habitats to a number of marine fish larvae that recruit after prolonged pelagic larval duration, has been identified as one of ecosystem services rendered by estuaries and protected inshore water bodies like mangroves, mudflats, swamps, and marshes. Larval fish congregation and survival are largely dependent on abiotic and biotic potential of such systems and many migrant marine fishes are adapted to them. However, occurrences of larval forms of tropical reef-associated vagrant species which are known for extensive range adaptations generate considerable academic interest. The present study provides the first report of ontogenic habitat utilization of yellow fin surgeon fish, Acanthurus xanthopterus Valenciennes 1835 in a tropical microtidal positive estuary, the Vembanad lake, South India. Surface plankton collections from the downstream part of the estuary revealed considerable proportions of acanthurid larvae in post monsoon (mean 354 ± 180 numbers/100 m3) and pre monsoon (mean 217 ± 120 numbers/100 m3) while they were absent in monsoon season. These acronurus larval forms were morphologically identified and sorted before being subjected for DNA barcoding. Mitochondrial DNA COI sequences developed from morphologically characterized acronurus larvae exhibited genetic congruency to sequence of A. xanthopterus which was evident from phylogram (bootstrap support of 100) and genetic distance data (intraspecific distance of 0%). The study indicates that Acronurus larvae of A. xanthopterus, after extensive cross-habitat dispersal, utilize the estuarine habitat to promote potential growth.
Interacting with ChatGPT in essay writing: A study of L2 learners’ task motivation
Authors: Zare Javad , Al-Issa Ahmad , Ranjbaran Madiseh Fatemeh
Published: February 2025

This study explored the effects of interacting with ChatGPT 4.0 on L2 learners’ motivation to write English argumentative essays. Conducted at a public university in a non-English-speaking country, the study had an experimental and mixed-methods design. It utilized both quantitative and qualitative data analyses to inform the development of effective AI-enhanced tailored interventions for teaching L2 essay writing. Overall, the results revealed that interacting with ChatGPT 4.0 had a positive lasting effect on learners’ motivation to write argumentative essays in English. However, a decline in their motivation at the delayed post-intervention stage suggested the need to maintain a balance between utilizing ChatGPT as a writing support tool and enhancing their independent writing capabilities. Learners attributed the increase in their motivation to several factors, including their perceived improvement in essay writing skills, the supportive learning environment created by ChatGPT as a tutor, positive interactions with it, and the development of meta-cognitive awareness by addressing their specific writing issues. The study highlights the potential of AI-based tools in enhancing L2 learners’ motivation in English classrooms.