bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparative analysis of glycemic outcomes following implementation of a pharmacist‐led insulin management service in postoperative cardiothoracic surgery patients
Authors: Kermeen Sydney , White Brittany , Stowe Alicia , Wilson Christopher
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Perioperative hyperglycemia is a predictor of mortality in cardiothoracic surgery (CTS) patients. Cardiothoracic surgery patients with diabetes have improved clinical outcomes with maintained glycemic management, including improved hospital length of stay (LOS), surgical site infection risk, and rates of morbidity and mortality. A pharmacist‐led insulin management service was implemented, granting pharmacists autonomy to adjust basal, bolus, and infusion insulin regimens to optimize glycemic management following CTS. Literature evaluating the impact on glycemic management in CTS patients following a pharmacist‐led insulin management service is limited.

Objective

The study objective was to compare postoperative glycemic management in CTS patients before and after implementation of a pharmacist‐led insulin management service.

Methods

This retrospective study included adult CTS patients with diabetes with a hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) of 6.5% or greater who received at least 2 basal insulin doses following postoperative intravenous (IV) insulin infusion. The primary outcome was the percentage of blood glucose concentrations within the target range (70–180 mg/dL) until postoperative Day 7 or discharge, if sooner. Secondary outcomes were average daily blood glucose, time to discontinuation of postoperative IV insulin infusion, incidence of hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia requiring re‐initiation of an insulin infusion, hospital LOS, and postoperative surgical site infections within 3 months.

Results

A total of 200 patients were included, 100 in each group. Mean percent of glucose checks within target range was higher in the post‐implementation group compared with the pre‐implementation group (60.8 vs. 48.9, p = 0.0004). The post‐implementation group achieved a lower mean daily blood glucose (170 vs. 191, p < 0.0001) and spent fewer days on postoperative insulin infusion (1.24 vs. 1.85, p < 0.0001). There were no differences in the incidence of hypoglycemia, re‐initiation of insulin infusion, LOS, or surgical site infections.

Conclusion

Implementation of a pharmacist‐led insulin management service was a safe and effective strategy to improve glycemic management in postoperative CTS patients.
Viral Load of Human Papillomavirus (HPV) During Pregnancy and Its Association With HPV Vertical Transmission
Authors: Bénard Eméra Alice , Carceller Ana Maria , Mayrand Marie‐Hélène , Lacroix Jacques , Niyibizi Joseph , Laporte Louise , Comète Emilie , Coutlée François , Trottier Helen ,   The HERITAGE study group
Published: February 2025

Little is known on the dynamics of human papillomavirus (HPV) viral load during pregnancy and on the impact of viral load on HPV vertical transmission. We described viral loads for several genotypes during pregnancy and analyse its association with vertical transmission. Data were analysed from the HERITAGE study, a cohort of pregnant women recruited between 2010 and 2016 in three centres in Canada. Vaginal samples were collected at the first and third trimesters of pregnancy, placental samples were collected at birth, and conjunctival, oral, pharyngeal, and genital samples were collected in children at birth and 3 months were tested for HPV DNA and viral load by Linear Array essay. The association between viral load and vertical transmission was measured using logistic regression. Odd ratios (ORs) and their 95% Confidence intervals (CI) were adjusted for age of the mother. We included women in the cohort infected with the 13 most common genotypes during pregnancy (n = 287). A decrease in HPV viral load was observed during pregnancy (median difference between the third and first trimester of pregnancy = −0.005 copies/cell [p < 0.05]). Women with more than 2 HPV copies/cell (compared to those with ≤ 2 copies) at first trimester had a statistically significant higher risk of vertical transmission (adjusted OR = 6.41; 95% CI: 1.10–37.34 for any genotypes and OR = 17.17; 95% CI: 1.18–250.28 for HPV‐16). Viral load values analysed continuously or categorized with different cut‐offs showed comparable results. HPV viral load varied during pregnancy and was strongly associated with HPV vertical transmission. The results provide a better understanding of risk factors associated with vertical transmission.
Investigating Compound Drought and Hot Extreme Events in Southeast Asia Through Copula Analysis
Authors: Liu Lilingjun , Qin Xiaosheng
Published: February 2025

The concurrent occurrences of drought and extreme heat events, such as heatwaves, present substantial threats to human health and ecosystems. This study delves into a thorough examination of the collective impacts of drought and extreme heat events in Southeast Asia (SEA) over the past 83 years (1941–2023). Two primary definitions guided the investigation: Compound Drought and Heatwave Events (CDHW) and Compound Hot Droughts (CHD). The Wet‐Bulb Globe Temperature (WBGT) was employed to define heatwaves and extreme hot events, while the Standardised Precipitation Evapotranspiration Index (SPEI) was used for drought definition. In addition, the study explored the impact of linear detrending on copula fitting, assessing its effects. The findings of the study consistently revealed a strong positive correlation between drought and heatwaves in CDHW. On the other hand, CHD exhibited varied correlation patterns across regions. Furthermore, the study highlighted that linear detrending had a lower sensitivity in CDHW compared to CHD. The analysis uncovered significant regional disparities in the joint return period ranking of compound events, stemming from diverse copula analysis approaches. Particularly in non‐continental SEA, notably in some regions like Sumatra Island, a noteworthy distinction between CDHW and CHD emerged, indicating the limited applicability of CHD in scenarios with stringent concurrence of compound events. These insights provide valuable assistance to the research community, aiding in the discernment of the distinctions between CDHW and CHD in drought and heat‐event assessment.
A thorough analysis of surfactant addition effects on the thermophysical properties and stability of nanofluids
Authors: Kadam H. H. , Pise A. T.
Published: February 2025

Researchers are mainly suggesting that optimizing the heat efficiency of thermal apparatus by dispersing nanoparticles into the foundation fluid will boost its heat efficiency in boiling sectors. Many investigators conduct research on factors such as fluid properties, bubble growth and bubble dynamics, heater surface effect, and so forth. However, the problem of deficiency in stability created by nanoparticle sedimentation or agglomeration into the base fluid over time has restricted practicable applications, which has drawn considerable attention in recent years. To overcome that, many researchers used a common technique, the addition of stabilizing agents like surfactants/additives into the nanofluids (NFs) to achieve stability. Understanding the behavior of surfactants in NFs and their effect on various important physical properties of the working fluid is required. In this review, firstly discuss the impact of adding surfactants on the stability of an aqueous solution. Additionally, it provides a concise assessment of how the inclusion of surfactants affects different thermal physical characteristics like interfacial tension, viscosity, and thermal conductivity of aqueous solutions or NFs. Finally, it outlines the primary obstacles and challenges encountered by researchers that continue to be areas of focus for future investigations concerning NFs containing surfactants.
Low Back Pain in the Third Trimester: Social Implications for Pregnant Women in Nigerian Suburban Hospitals
Authors: Akobundu Uzoamaka Nwakaego , Obiekwe Sochima Johnmark , Okonkwo Ginika Lovelyn , Okonkwo Uchenna Prosper , Amaechi Ifeoma Adaigwe , Ihegihu Ebere Yvonne , Ani Nnaemeka Charles , Umunnah Joseph Onuwa
Published: February 2025

Background

Low back pain (LBP) is one of the most common complications of pregnancy, especially during the third trimester, and can occur as a result of different pregnancy‐related physiological changes.

Objectives

To examine the social impact of LBP during the third trimester among pregnant women in selected hospitals in Nnewi North, Anambra State, Nigeria.

Design

A cross‐sectional study.

Methods

Pregnant women in their third trimester and attending antenatal care in some selected hospitals in Nnewi were selected conveniently. The participants completed a self‐administered Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), from which their data were obtained, summarized and analysed using descriptive statistics and inferential statistics of chi‐square (χ2), respectively. The alpha level was set at 0.05.

Results

A total of 104 women with a mean age and number of pregnancies of 33.89 ± 9.37 and 3.53 ± 1.66, respectively. The mean ODI score was 30.06 ± 17.85, respectively. All the participants revealed that they had LBP, and 39.4% reported pain of moderate intensity. The pain impacted their physical function, social activities and work; 35.6% were unable to walk more than 2 km, and 42.3% experienced increased pain during travel. The numbers of pregnancies, maternal age, occupations and educational level during the third trimester of pregnancy were not significantly associated (p > 0.05) with the severity of LBP.

Conclusion

LBP has a significant social impact on pregnant women during their third trimester of pregnancy as normal activities such as basic activities of daily living, travelling, sex life, social life and work result in exacerbation of pain. It is necessary to carry out thorough assessments and counselling, provide education on proper ergonomics and incorporate thorough pain management techniques into standard prenatal treatment.
Baroclinic instability‐induced intensification of phytoplankton blooms at submesoscales in eutrophic frontal regions
Authors: Zhao Zhonghua , Oey Lie‐Yauw , Chen Zhaoyun , Huang Bangqin , Xue Huijie , Kao Shuh‐Ji , Cai Feng , Jiang Yuwu
Published: February 2025

Off‐coast phytoplankton blooms occur frequently in the frontal region of the eutrophic Taiwan Strait during the northeasterly monsoon relaxation period, as consistently revealed by extensive cruise and satellite observations. Realistic model simulations have shown that restratification by frontal baroclinic instability (BCI) plays a crucial role in triggering blooms under nutrient‐rich conditions. This study deciphered the distinct contributions of submesoscale and mesoscale BCIs to bloom development using sensitivity tests of an idealized model of the Taiwan Strait featuring an intense alongshore front with ample nutrients. In three‐dimensional fine simulations with both submesoscale and mesoscale BCIs present, blooms were triggered by the cessation of a down‐front wind. Chlorophyll a was higher in submesoscale front regions than in mesoscale regions, primarily because of the higher upper‐ocean stability resulting from more effective restratification by submesoscale BCI. In three‐dimensional coarse simulations, mesoscale BCI led to relatively lower upper‐ocean stability and weaker blooms following wind relaxation, consistent with those in mesoscale regions in corresponding three‐dimensional fine simulations. In two‐dimensional simulations without submesoscale and mesoscale BCIs, blooms could not be triggered despite the cessation of a down‐front wind, primarily because of the absence of significant near‐surface restratification by BCIs. Furthermore, although symmetric instability was present in two‐dimensional fine simulations, its contribution to blooms was limited because of its minimal restratification effect. These results show that BCIs play the predominant role in triggering off‐coast blooms in eutrophic coastal front regions such as the Taiwan Strait.
A comparative analysis of heat waves over two major urban agglomerations in China
Authors: Wang Xin , Jia Binghao , Li Xiufen , Wang Longhuan
Published: February 2025

Heat waves harm human health and adversely impact the natural environment and society, especially in urban regions. Understanding the differences between heat waves in urban agglomerations and their driving mechanisms is essential for sustainable development. In this study, we investigate the spatiotemporal distribution of summertime heat waves and their association with sea surface temperature modes in two of China's most densely populated urban areas: the Beijing–Tianjin–Hebei (BTH) and the Yangtze River Economic Belt (YREB). The results indicate an increase in the frequency of heat waves for BTH and YREB by 0.02 times a−1 and 0.1 times a−1 and duration by 0.09d a−1 and 0.48d a−1, respectively. Regarding spatial distribution, the duration and frequency of BTH heat waves gradually decreased from northeast to southwest. In contrast, the heat waves in YREB were concentrated in the upper and parts of the lower reaches. The Atlantic Multidecadal Oscillation significantly influences heat waves in both the BTH and YREB regions. Nevertheless, the Pacific Decadal Oscillation, Indian Ocean Basin‐Wide Index, and Cold‐tongue ENSO Index primarily impact heat waves in the YREB region, with limited influence observed in the BTH region. This study provides a scientific basis for accurately identifying heat waves and understanding their changes, assisting decision‐makers in formulating mitigation, adaptation strategies, and disaster prevention policies related to heat‐induced consequences.
Development and Validation of the EBP‐Affinity Questionnaire: A Mixed‐Method Study
Authors: Tange Lenny J. , Heinen Maud , Koopmans Raymond T.C.M. , de Korne Dirk F. , Persoon Anke , Lindeboom Robert , Gerritsen Debby L. , Lovink Marleen H.
Published: February 2025

Background

Implementation of evidence‐based practice (EBP) in nursing homes is important to improve quality of care and reduce costs. These facilities primarily employ certified nurse assistants (CNAs) and vocationally‐trained registered nurses (VTRNs). Although EBP is scarcely addressed in their education, these caregivers have an important role in EBP. Insight into their affinity with EBP could provide a good starting point for working according to EBP.

Aims

To develop a questionnaire that measures affinity with EBP amongst CNAs and VTRNs in nursing homes.

To assess the reliability and validity of the questionnaire.

Design

Mixed‐method design according to the COSMIN‐checklist.

Methods

Phase 1: the questionnaire was developed in three steps: (1) gathering items from existing questionnaires, occupational profiles and interviews; (2) compression through consensus rounds and (3) a pilot study.

Phase 2: psychometric properties were assessed amongst CNAs and VTRNs in nine nursing homes. The factors extracted through principal component analysis were tested for measurement invariance using the one‐parameter Rasch model.

Results

Phase 1: all experts interviewed (N = 5) indicated CNAs and VTRNs can play specific and significant roles in EBP. A 26‐item questionnaire was created through two consensus rounds with experts (N = 7) and a pilot study (N = 7).

Phase 2: Principal component analysis revealed a two‐factor structure with good internal reliability (N = 428 questionnaires). All items exhibited good fit with the Rasch model and measurement invariance for CNAs and VTRNs.

Conclusion

CNAs and VTRNs can fulfil important roles in EBP in nursing homes. The ‘Evidence‐Based Practice‐Affinity Questionnaire’ is reliable and valid for assessing affinity with EBP amongst CNAs and VTRNs to improve practice and research, and can guide tailored training programs for CNAs and VTRNs, enhancing evidence‐based practices in nursing homes.

Impact

The research provides insight into the roles CNAs and VTRNs can play in EBP and how to measure their affinity with EBP, which contributes to implementation of EBP in nursing homes.

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public contribution in the study.
Dielectric properties of functionalized natural fiber reinforced electromagnetic composite with reduced graphene oxide nanofiller for microwave absorption
Authors: Samantara Biswabandita , Barik Rajib , Nath Ganeswar
Published: February 2025

The integration of 5G technology with advanced electronic devices has intensified electromagnetic pollution concerns, necessitating materials capable of mitigating electromagnetic interference (EMI). This has spurred the development of sustainable alternatives, surpassing conventional synthetic and ferrite materials. Natural fibers, when combined with nanomaterials, exhibit unique properties suitable for EMI shielding. Sugarcane bagasse fiber (SBF), in conjunction with nanofillers such as reduced graphene oxide (rGO), provides a sustainable, lightweight, and eco‐friendly solution for absorbing electromagnetic waves. This study explores the effects of SBF particle size and rGO integration on dielectric and microwave absorption properties. Experimental findings highlight that the EPSB150@1%rGO composite (150 μm SBF with 1 wt% rGO) achieved a maximum dielectric constant (ε′) of 6.62 at 8 GHz, outperforming EPSB@1%rGO (ε′ = 5.45), indicating enhanced charge storage. The dielectric loss (ε″) peaked at 0.41 for EPSB@1%rGO, reflecting superior energy dissipation from interfacial polarization. Reflection loss (RL) calculations revealed improved microwave absorption of −20.07 dB at 12.4 GHz for EPSB150@1%rGO, compared to −15 dB for EPSB@1%rGO, signifying effective EM wave attenuation. These results demonstrate that reduced SBF particle size combined with rGO incorporation significantly enhances dielectric and microwave absorption properties, establishing these composites as promising candidates for EMI shielding and stealth technologies.

Highlights

5G technology raises EMI pollution, needing sustainable shielding materials.

Sugarcane fiber combined with rGO forms eco‐friendly EMI shielding composite.

EPSB150@1%rGO max ε′ = 6.62 at 8 GHz, surpassing conventional composites.

Reflection loss of −20.07 dB at 12.4 GHz, high EM wave attenuation.

EPSB150@1% rGO boost dielectric and microwave absorption.
Eurosta solidaginis‐induced stem galls affect strength and colour of botanical dyes extracted from giant goldenrod (Solidago gigantea)
Authors: Indigo Alexe , Sun Xiaohong , Manning Paul
Published: February 2025

Societal Impact Statement

With increasing demand for sustainable goods, botanical dyes are of increasing interest and value to consumers, industry and small‐scale artisanal producers. Goldenrod is a widely used dye plant with a long history of traditional use. The impact of the well‐studied goldenrod stem gall produced by Eurosta solidaginis on goldenrod botanical dyes—and the broader impact of insect herbivory on plant dyes—has not been explored. Our research provides an initial investigation into how dye strength and colour are affected by the complex gall‐maker‐host–plant relationship—an essential step in understanding the value insect herbivory may bring to botanical dye production, as well as potential limitations of this dye variation in larger scale production.

Goldenrod (Solidago spp.) plants produce botanical dyes with a long history of traditional use. The concentration and profile of phenolic compounds in goldenrod, influenced by biotic and abiotic factors, impact the properties of the resulting dyes. We investigated whether the presence of the stem‐galling insect E. solidaginis (Diptera: Tephritidae) affected dye produced from goldenrod.

Leaves collected from upper and lower stem sections of galled and non‐galled goldenrod plants were processed to extract dye compounds into a soluble form. The dye was analysed through colourimetric comparison of dyed fabric swatches and spectrophotometry of aqueous extracts to evaluate phenolic content.

Through colourimetric analysis using a paired t‐test, we found that the colour difference between upper and lower leaves was significantly affected by whether the plant was galled (t[6] = −2.80, p = 0.02). Comparing dyes made from lower versus the upper leaves of the same plants showed a larger colourimetric difference in non‐galled than galled plants. This indicates that the galling insect affected the availability of dye compounds. Spectrophotometric analysis showed that increases in total phenolics between lower and upper leaves of galled plants were not significantly greater than in non‐galled plants (p = 0.103), indicating a possible response to insect herbivory.

The differing effects of the gall on dye content and total phenolics illustrate the complexity of plant–herbivore interactions and provide insight into the influence of biotic factors on botanical dyes.
First case of glyphosate resistance in Polypogon fugax: possible involvement of P450‐based mechanisms
Authors: Chen Wen , Liao Yuxi , Bai Dingyi , Yu Qin , Bai Lianyang , Pan Lang
Published: February 2025

BACKGROUND

Polypogon fugax has evolved resistance to multiple herbicides in China, yet there has been no documented case of glyphosate resistance. A putative glyphosate‐resistant P. fugax (HN‐R) population was collected from canola fields in Hunan Province, China, surviving glyphosate treatment at the field‐recommended rate [540 g acid equivalent (a.e.) ha−1]. The aims of this study were to elucidate the resistance level and mechanism of HN‐R population.

RESULTS

Dose–response and shikimic acid assays indicated that the HN‐R population has developed a low‐level resistance (up to 4.6‐fold) to glyphosate, compared to two glyphosate‐susceptible populations (HN‐S and SC‐S). No evidence of EPSPS gene mutations and differential EPSPS gene expression were found in association with the resistance. However, pre‐treatment with the known cytochrome P450 monooxygenases (P450s) inhibitor, malathion, reversed glyphosate resistance in the HN‐R population. Transcriptomic and reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT‐qPCR) analyses showed up‐regulation of the PfCYP51 and PfABCG25 genes in the HN‐R population. Expression of PfCYP51 in yeast cells significantly enhanced glyphosate tolerance, whereas expression of PfABCG25 did not. Molecular docking experiments suggest that PfCYP51 may catalyze glyphosate metabolism.

CONCLUSION

This is the first report of glyphosate resistance in P. fugax, with evidence suggesting P450 involvement in this resistance. This study enhances our understanding of herbicide‐resistant weeds and provides valuable insights into the management of glyphosate‐resistant weeds in agriculture. © 2025 Society of Chemical Industry.
Soil Multitrophic Interactions in a Changing World
Authors: Hossain Md. Akhter , Egidi Eleonora , Xiong Chao , Singh Brajesh K.
Published: February 2025

Multitrophic interactions in the soil food web represent an important factor in shaping the relationship between biodiversity and ecosystem functions (BEF) under the changing environmental conditions. Despite some recent advancements, the relative contribution, and mechanisms by which multitrophic interactions affect ecosystem functions and stability, however, remain poorly understood. Here, we provide an overview of the current understanding of the role of multitrophic interactions in BEF and explore mechanistic pathways that may underpin their role in ecosystem functions and stability. We also discuss potential approaches to quantify the contribution of the multitrophic interactions in the soil food web. Specifically, we highlight the need for improvements in empirical frameworks and analytical tools for quantifying the strength of these interactions in the soil food web. We argue that addressing the key knowledge gaps in current understanding, BEF research requires integration of multitrophic interactions as a key factor when predicting the rate and stability of ecosystem multifunctionality under changing climatic conditions.
A short history of astropedology
Authors: Retallack Gregory J.
Published: February 2025

Astropedology is the study of soils on other planetary bodies and stretches the definition of soil to materials on the surface of a planetary body altered in place by physical, chemical, or biological processes. This new disciplinary name was coined by Roy E. Cameron in 1966 from studies of desert soils and their microbes in Arizona and Antarctica as analogs for Martian soils to be investigated by NASA Viking missions. Astropedology now has documented numerous actual soil profiles exposed in cliff faces, natural cracks, or cores studied by robotic missions to the Moon, Venus, and Mars, with increasingly advanced and precise chemical and other analyses. Specimens are also available for study from Lunar and Martian meteorites, and from sample return from the Moon, also planned from Mars. Life has yet to be found beyond Earth, but Mars has surprisingly Earth‐like soils, which can be identified as Gypsids in US taxonomy. Soil formation by micrometeoroid bombardment on the Moon and by melting and glazing on Venus are truly out of this world.
Causal Mediation Analysis: A Summary‐Data Mendelian Randomization Approach
Authors: Lin Shu‐Chin , Lin Sheng‐Hsuan , Ge Tian , Chen Chia‐Yen , Lin Yen‐Feng
Published: February 2025

Summary‐data Mendelian randomization (MR), a widely used approach in causal inference, has recently attracted attention for improving causal mediation analysis. Two existing methods corresponding to the difference method and product method of linear mediation analysis have been developed to perform MR‐based mediation analysis using the inverse‐variance weighted method (MR‐IVW). Despite these developments, there is still a need for more rigorous, efficient, and precise MR‐based mediation methodologies. In this study, we develop summary‐data MR‐based frameworks for causal mediation analysis. We improve the accuracy, statistical efficiency and robustness of the existing MR‐based mediation analysis by implementing novel variance estimators for the mediation effects, deriving rigorous procedures for statistical inference, and accounting for widespread pleiotropic effects. Specifically, we propose Diff‐IVW and Prod‐IVW to improve upon the existing methods and provide the pleiotropy‐robust methods (Diff‐Egger, Diff‐Median, Prod‐Egger, and Prod‐Median), adapted from MR‐Egger and MR‐Median, to enhance the robustness of the MR‐based mediation analysis. We conduct comprehensive simulation studies to compare the existing and proposed methods. The results show that the proposed methods, Diff‐IVW and Prod‐IVW, improve statistical efficiency and type I error control over the existing approaches. Although all IVW‐based methods suffer from directional pleiotropy biases, the median‐based methods (Diff‐Median and Prod‐Median) can mitigate such biases. The differences among the methods can lead to discrepant statistical conclusions as demonstrated in real data applications. Based on our simulation results, we recommend the three proposed methods in practice: Diff‐IVW, Prod‐IVW, and Prod‐Median, which are complementary under various scenarios.
Synthesis and Characterization of Biomass Derived Modified Lignin Based PVA Hydrogel as Drug Delivery System for Ciprofloxacin
Authors: Singh Vinay , Dhukia Surbhi , Khullar Lavanya , Sihag Swati , Kaur Ramandeep , Harjai Kusum , Singh Vasundhara
Published: February 2025

In the present study, a newly extracted lignin‐based hydrogel has been explored for the release of ciprofloxacin as an effective drug delivery system. The modified extracted lignin hydrogel was prepared and the Ciprofloxacin drug was used to examine the loading and release capabilities of hydrogel. The hydrogel was characterized by FT‐IR, TGA‐DTG, and SEM analysis as well as swelling ratio and mechanical test. The outcomes demonstrated that the hydrogel that was made shows high mechanical strength (elongation 442.85%), swelling ratio, effectively contained and released the ciprofloxacin. The developed hydrogel encapsulation effectiveness of CP was seen to rise as the drug concentration increased, reaching around 81.3 ± 4.1% at 500 µg/mL of CP. A release analysis conducted in vitro in phosphate buffer saline (PBS) demonstrated a consistent increase in the cumulative drug release, with the greatest release quantity reaching around 88.2 ± 3.2% after 10 h. As compared to hydrogel containing a lower quantity of drug (0.07 ± 0.06%), the hydrogel with high drug loading efficiency (0.78 ± 0.08%) showed a rapid and greater release rate. The CP‐loaded hydrogel exhibits antibacterial activity towards S. aureus, B. subtilis, A. baumannii, P. aeruginosa. The sustained release of ciprofloxacin from the modified lignin‐based hydrogel identifies them as a viable option for designing drug delivery systems.
The Indispensable Role of Software Ecosystem Services
Authors: van Schothorst Casper , Jansen Slinger , Lausberg Liza
Published: February 2025

Software ecosystem services are essential for the sustainability and functionality of software ecosystems, but they lack comprehensive categorization, hindering further study. This study explores the concept of software ecosystem services through a systematic literature review and brief survey. Drawing analogies from natural ecosystems, we define software ecosystem services as the conditions and processes through which software ecosystems create, provide, and sustain innovation and value creation via software. Software ecosystem services are categorized into four primary types: provisioning, regulating, cultural, and supporting services.

Our findings highlight the crucial role of services that do not directly add customer value but are essential for the software ecosystem's functionality, such as authentication and authorization services, collaboration and communication platforms, and app stores. By highlighting these vital yet often overlooked services, the research identifies potential sustainability threats for software ecosystems, such as the dominance of a few major players, which mirrors the risks of monocultures in natural ecosystems. This study lays the groundwork for further research aimed at ensuring the long‐term sustainability and resilience of software ecosystems.
Towards the Effect of Examples on In‐Context Learning: A Theoretical Case Study
Authors: He Pengfei , Cui Yingqian , Xu Han , Liu Hui , Yamada Makoto , Tang Jiliang , Xing Yue
Published: February 2025

In‐context learning (ICL) has emerged as a powerful capability for large language models (LLMs) to adapt to downstream tasks by leveraging a few (demonstration) examples. Despite its effectiveness, the mechanism behind ICL remains underexplored. To better understand how ICL integrates the examples with the knowledge learned by the LLM during pre‐training (i.e., pre‐training knowledge) and how the examples impact ICL, this paper conducts a theoretical study in binary classification tasks. In particular, we introduce a probabilistic model extending from the Gaussian mixture model to exactly quantify the impact of pre‐training knowledge, label frequency and label noise on the prediction accuracy. Based on our analysis, when the pre‐training knowledge contradicts the knowledge in the examples, whether ICL prediction relies more on the pre‐training knowledge or the examples depends on the number of examples. In addition, the label frequency and label noise of the examples both affect the accuracy of the ICL prediction, where the minor class has a lower accuracy, and how the label noise impacts the accuracy is determined by the specific noise level of the two classes. Extensive simulations are conducted to verify the correctness of the theoretical results, and real‐data experiments also align with the theoretical insights. Our work reveals the role of pre‐training knowledge and examples in ICL, offering a deeper understanding of LLMs' behaviours in classification tasks.
Target capture sequencing clarifies key relationships in the Eriostemon group (Rutaceae: Zanthoxyloideae) and supports a reclassification of Philotheca, including the recognition of two new genera
Authors: Orel Harvey K. , McLay Todd G.B. , Forster Paul I. , Bayly Michael J.
Published: February 2025

The Eriostemon group (Rutaceae) is a clade of 16 genera and ~ 209 species endemic to Australia, New Zealand and New Caledonia. Recent efforts to address taxonomic and phylogenetic uncertainty in the group using plastome and nuclear ribosomal DNA sequences have made some progress but have also highlighted problematic areas that require further research. In particular, the current circumscription of Philotheca is known to be non‐monophyletic, but unclear phylogenetic relationships have prevented reclassification of the group. We generated target capture data using the Angiosperms353 universal bait kit and conducted phylogenetic analyses on the Eriostemon group with the aims of resolving uncertain backbone relationships and clarifying the relationships of Philotheca. Our results uncovered extensive cytonuclear discordance in the group, with conflict between our nuclear DNA phylogenies and previous plastome DNA phylogenies observed in several key areas of the tree. Despite this, the positions of the polyphyletic lineages of Philotheca were consistent enough across nuclear DNA and plastome DNA phylogenies to enable a confident reclassification of the genus, which is presented herein. Two sections of Philotheca, P. sect. Corynonema and P. sect. Erionema, are raised to generic rank under the names Corynonema and Erioseira, respectively. Philotheca sect. Cyanochlamys, is transferred into the genus Muiriantha. The type section of Philotheca is retained and becomes the entirety of that genus. Appropriate nomenclatural changes are made to transfer all currently recognised species and subspecies to their respective genera under this new classification.
Morphological and Molecular Characterization of Eimeria saudiensis From Arabian Oryx (Oryx leucoryx) Held in Captivity in the Sultanate of Oman
Authors: Al‐Habsi Khalid , Elshafie Elshafie I. , Al‐Kharousi Kaadhia , Ali Haytham , Al‐Hamrashdi Abeer , Golachowska Barbara , Al‐Aufi Masoud , Johnson Eugene H.
Published: February 2025

An observational study was conducted to investigate Eimeria species prevalence, fecal shedding, morphometric, and molecular composition in captive Arabian oryx (Oryx leucoryx) bred at the Mammals Breeding Center in Oman. Oryx were sampled in the summer and winter seasons. Eimeria was detected at a prevalence of 26% in summer and 22% in winter, with higher shedding intensity observed during the summer among adult oryx. The isolated Eimeria displayed ellipsoidal oocysts and ovoidal sporocysts with average dimensions of 30.6 × 24.3 μm (ranging from 24.8 to 35.4 × 20.9–26.7) and 14.3 × 7.1 μm (ranging from 11.1 to 18.3 × 6.1–8.6), respectively. Molecularly (18S rRNA, ITS‐1), E. saudiensis revealed its unique identity and closest relation (96.7%–99.3%) to E. bovis isolates of bovine origin (MK691697 and AB769578), respectively, in the absence of antelope‐derived isolates. The findings serve as a precursor to incorporating Eimeria species derived from Arabian oryx into the molecular map.
The Survey, the Respondents and Us
Authors: Gibson Hannah , Lück Jacqueline , Riedel Kristina , Namboodiripad Savithry
Published: February 2025

This chapter gives an overview of the methods used for the survey on which the study is based. This includes a description of how the survey was administered and distributed. We then provide context for interpreting the findings in the subsequent chapters by outlining the overall demographics of the survey respondents, defining some of the terminology employed in the book, as well as providing some information about us as authors, our positionalities and the contexts in which we are operating.
The Role of African Languages in Transformation and Decolonisation
Authors: Gibson Hannah , Lück Jacqueline , Riedel Kristina , Namboodiripad Savithry
Published: February 2025

This chapter explores how respondents’ positionalities (institutional, linguistic, and geographic) shape their perspectives on the role of teaching African languages in decolonisation and transformation efforts. We found that instructors who are more removed from experiences of being colonialised had different perspectives on the role of teaching and learning African languages in decolonisation efforts from those instructors whose classrooms are located in a context where students grew up using African languages. Students had more positive views, and connected increased attention to African languages in the classroom to material benefits for African language users outside of the classroom. The positionality of respondents with respect to African languages, for example whether these languages are ones that they grew up with or languages which they study, was a relevant factor in interpreting the responses to the question of what role there might be for African languages in decolonisation and transformation efforts. Responses suggest that, from a pedagogical perspective, instructors should keep in mind that the potential value of contextualised inclusion of African Languages in linguistic curricula for undergraduate students, particularly in Africa, may be significant for those who grew up using these languages amidst the ongoing marginalisation of these languages.
Views on Decoloniality and Transformation Discourses in African Linguistics
Authors: Gibson Hannah , Lück Jacqueline , Riedel Kristina , Namboodiripad Savithry
Published: February 2025

This chapter examines respondents’ attitudes towards the concepts of decolonisation and transformation. Respondents report different views, opinions, experiences and degrees of exposure to the notions of decoloniality and transformation. The chapter explores the ways in which the survey respondents engage with these notions and the key patterns that emerge from this portion of the data. Respondents in South Africa appear to be more closely embedded within discourses on transformation, while outside of South Africa decolonisation is the dominant of these discourses. However, decolonisation also has differing interpretations and appears difficult to narrow down. This suggests the need for a reconsideration and reshaping of our understanding of the role of colonialism, empire and racism in the contemporary world. The chapter shows that making transparent the potential connections between including African languages in linguistic curricula and decolonisation/transformation could go a long way to understanding points of (dis)connection between students and instructors. Respondents also warned against tokenistic inclusion. However, our findings show that instructors should not let their critical impulses obscure the potential and perceived value of supporting the presence of African languages in educational spaces. A strong imperative of doing and not only talking decolonisation emerged.
Spinning bodies in general relativity from bosonic worldline oscillators
Authors: Haddad Kays , Jakobsen Gustav Uhre , Mogull Gustav , Plefka Jan
Published: February 2025

Abstract

Worldline quantum field theory (WQFT) has proven itself a powerful tool for classical two-body scattering calculations in general relativity. In this paper we develop a new worldline action involving bosonic oscillators, which enables the use of the WQFT formalism to describe massive compact bodies to all orders in their spins. Inspired by bosonic string theory in the tensionless limit, we augment traditional trajectory variables with bosonic oscillators capturing the spin dependence. We show its equivalence to the covariant phase space description of a spinning body in curved space and clarify the role of the spin-supplementary condition in a Hamiltonian treatment. Higher-spin Hamiltonians are classified to linear and quadratic order in curvature. Finally, perturbative computations at 1PM order for arbitrary powers and orientations of spin and at 2PM up to quartic spin order are performed, recovering results from the literature.
Entanglement content of kink excitations
Authors: Capizzi Luca , Mazzoni Michele
Published: February 2025

Abstract

Quantum one-dimensional systems in their ordered phase admit kinks as elementary excitations above their symmetry-broken vacua. While the scattering properties of the kinks resemble those of quasiparticles, they have distinct locality features that are manifest in their entanglement content. In this work, we study the entanglement entropy of kink excitations. We first present detailed calculations for specific states of a spin-1/2 chain to highlight the salient features of these excitations. Second, we provide a field-theoretic framework based on the algebraic relations between the twist fields and the semilocal fields associated with the excitations, and we compute the Rényi entropies in this framework. We obtain universal predictions for the entropy difference between the excited states with a finite number of kinks and the symmetry-broken ground states, which do not depend on the microscopic details of the model in the limit of large regions. Finally, we discuss some consequences of the Kramers-Wannier duality, which relates the ordered and disordered phases of the Ising model, and we explain why, counterintuitively, no explicit relations between those phases are found at the level of entanglement.
Implant geometry and detection rates of prostate fiducial markers after transrectal ultrasound-guided perineal implantation for image-guided 6D-tracking in robotic stereotactic body radiotherapy
Authors: Grün Arne , Heil Katharina , Zips Daniel , Kalinauskaite Goda , Böhmer Dirk
Published: February 2025

Purpose

Fiducial markers (FM) are essential in prostate robotic stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT). Accuray® (Madison, WI, USA) provides an implantation guideline for reliable detection. We report on complication rates and analyze how the geometrical implantation quality correlated with subsequent detection rates. We also investigated whether factors such as single vs. double FM, body mass index (BMI), prostatic gland volume, and implantation-to-treatment interval were predictive for geometry and detection quality.

Methods

A retrospective analysis of 64 patients receiving transrectal ultrasound (TRUS)-guided transperineal implantation of ≥ 3 prostate FM and robotic SBRT between January 2011 and May 2021 was performed. Adverse events (AE) were classified according to the Society of Interventional Radiology (SIR) classification system. Digitally reconstructed radiographs (DRR) and the planning CT constituted the basis for implant geometry calculations. Marker detection rates were obtained from the Synchrony® (Accuray®) log.

Results

Complication rates were low, with mostly mild AE. Double FM significantly improved the rate of obtaining an optimal implantation geometry. High FM detection rates during treatment could be achieved independent of implantation geometry and type of FM. BMI and prostatic gland volume did not correlate with geometry and detection quality. An implantation-to-treatment interval of > 42 days was predictive for lower detection rates.

Conclusion

Transperineal intraprostatic FM implantation is a safe procedure. We recommend the use of double markers for reduction of trauma (two punctures instead of four) and, hence, increased patient comfort. Double FM were significantly predictive for achieving an optimal implantation geometry, which was borderline significant for improved marker detection rates over the course of the five-fraction treatment.
Assessment of needle bending and tracking requirements for optimized needle placement in combined intracavitary/interstitial gynecologic brachytherapy
Authors: Karius Andre , Strnad Vratislav , Lotter Michael , Kreppner Stephan , Merten Ricarda , Fietkau Rainer , Bert Christoph , Schweizer Claudia
Published: February 2025

Purpose

Needle tracking using external prediction techniques such as optical tracking is a modern approach aimed at improving implantation accuracy in gynecologic brachytherapy. This study aims to investigate the corresponding impact of needle bending in situ and to analyze needle path deviations from the intended locations occurring in our current clinical workflow that only considers ultrasound imaging without tracking.

Methods

We developed a semi-automated approach for reconstructing brachytherapy needles based on planning CTs and compared the respective accuracy to the also determined intra-observer variability of manual reconstructions. Based on this, we measured needle bending in situ for 89 patients and calculated the Euclidean distances between actual needle tips and needle tip predictions both longitudinally and laterally to the insertion direction. Furthermore, we compared actual and intended spacings between inserted needles to estimate implantation uncertainties with respect to our current clinical workflow.

Results

Our developed reconstruction featured an accuracy of 0.17 ± 0.08 mm, which was improved compared to the intra-observer variability of 0.21 ± 0.11 mm. Needle bending depended strongly on needle length and ranged from 3.6 ± 2.1 mm for 100–120 mm needles up to 7.9 ± 3.0 mm for 200–220 mm needles. Deflections in the transverse direction were substantially higher than tip deviations in the longitudinal direction. Furthermore, we found deviations from an equidistant spacing between needle paths of 1.4 ± 1.2 mm in the transverse direction.

Conclusion

Inserting brachytherapy needles can be substantially affected by transverse needle bending in situ, which should therefore be corrected for in prediction approaches such as optical tracking.
A gender gap in gender gaps: social norms and housework reporting
Authors: Acht Martin , Rebaudo Mara
Published: February 2025

Gender differences in the amount of housework performed and the role of social norms in explaining these persistent gaps have received increasing attention from both policymakers and researchers in recent years. However, norms may not only affect the actual division of housework but also potentially influence the reporting behavior in surveys. We study how retrospective responses about time-use in face-to-face interviews are influenced by the gender of the interviewer. Our findings show that women tend to report significantly more hours of housework when interviewed by a woman rather than by a man. This effect is not observable for male respondents, resulting in an interviewer gender gap in the housework gender gap. Exploring the effect in relation to several norm-related characteristics indicates that social norms play an important role in the reporting of housework hours. Therefore, gender gap estimates based on face-to-face interviews should be interpreted with great caution.
Feedback-delay dependence of the stability of cluster periodic orbits in populations of degrade-and-fire oscillators with common activator
Authors: Fernandez Bastien , Tanzi Matteo
Published: February 2025

Feedback delay has been identified as a key ingredient in the quorum sensing synchronization of synthetic gene oscillators. While this influence has been evidenced at the theoretical level in a simplified system of degrade-and-fire oscillators coupled via a common activator protein, full mathematical certifications remained to be provided. Here, we prove from a rigorous mathematical viewpoint that, for the very same model, the synchronized degrade-and-fire oscillations are 1/ unstable with respect to out-of-sync perturbations in absence of delay, and 2/ are otherwise asymptotically stable in presence of delay, no matter how small is its amplitude. To that goal, we proceed to an extensive study of the population dynamics in this system, which in particular identifies the mechanisms of, and related criteria for, the delay-dependent stability of periodic orbits with respect to out-of-sync perturbations. As an additional outcome, the analysis also reveals that, depending on the parameters, multiple stable partially synchronized periodic orbits can coexist with the fully synchronized one.