bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Views on Decoloniality and Transformation Discourses in African Linguistics
Authors: Gibson Hannah , Lück Jacqueline , Riedel Kristina , Namboodiripad Savithry 
Published: February 2025

Abstract
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.
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

Abstract

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

Abstract

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

Abstract
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

Abstract
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.
Waveguide-based optical parametric oscillator for coherent Raman scattering applications
Authors: Wallmeier Kristin , Gao Ming , Lemberger Nick S. , Fallnich Carsten 
Published: February 2025

Abstract
A waveguide-based optical parametric oscillator for coherent Raman scattering applications is presented, exploiting four-wave mixing in a silicon nitride waveguide. Benefiting from its long propagation length of 20 mm in combination with a narrowband pump laser, idler pulses with an energy of up to 210 pJ and a spectral bandwidth down to 11.2

$$\hbox {cm}^{-1}$$

cm

-
1

were obtained. By combining these narrowband idler pulses and the residual pump pulses, coherent Raman spectroscopy and microscopy were possible with a signal-to-noise ratio of up to 13.4. Thus, the presented compact and stable waveguide-based light source paves the way towards integrated lab-on-a-chip coherent Raman applications.
The effects of prognostic nutritional index, systemic immune inflammation index and HALP score on fistula formation, recurrence and mortality in laryngeal cancer patients
Authors: Büyük B. B. , Toprak F. , Kılıç Caner , Tunçcan T. , Öztop Ceren 
Published: February 2025

Abstract

Purpose
The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of prognostic nutritional index (PNI), systemic immune inflammation index (SII) and hemoglobin, albumin, lymphocyte, platelet (HALP) score on fistula formation, recurrence and mortality in patients with laryngeal cancer.

Method
The study included 77 patients who underwent total laryngectomy operation between 2018 and 2021. 66 (85.7%) patients underwent primary and 11 (14.3%) patients underwent salvage total laryngectomy. PNI, SII and HALP scores and cutt-off values of all patients were determined and the relationships between pharyngocutaneous fistula (PCF) formation, recurrence and mortality were statistically analysed. The patients with a score less than the cut-off value were divided into two groups as Group 1, and the patients with a score equal to or greater than the cut-off value were divided into two groups as Group 2.

Results
The effect of PNI, SII and HALP on the development of FKF was not significant (P = 0.110, P = 0.135, P = 0.358). The effect of high SII and low HALP score on the development of recurrence was statistically significant (P = 0.001, P = 0.012). Low PNI increased the development of recurrence, but this increase was not statistically significant (P = 0.075). Overall survival rate was 68.8%. The effect of low PNI and HALP on survival was statistically significant (P = 0.011, P = 0.021). The effect of high SII on survival was not significant (P = 0.533).

Conclusion
Low PNI index and HALP score and high SII index are cost-effective simple prognostic biomarkers that are significant in the development of FCF, as well as in the evaluation of recurrence and overall survival in the long-term follow-up of these patients.
Colchicin – Phönix aus der Asche
Authors: Lunzer Raimund , Delle-Karth Georg , Zeitlinger Markus , Prager Marlene , Pracher Lena Maria 
Published: February 2025

Zusammenfassung
Colchicin ist ein entzündungshemmender pflanzlicher Arzneistoff mit einer jahrtausendealten Geschichte. Es wird seit jeher erfolgreich in der Akuttherapie und Prophylaxe der Gicht eingesetzt und konnte sich einen festen Platz im pharmakologischen Standardrepertoire bei familiärem Mittelmeerfieber, Perikarditis, neutrophilen Dermatosen, Morbus Behçet und oralen therapierefraktären schweren Aphthosen sichern. Rezent hat die US-amerikanische Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Colchicin zugelassen, um das Risiko von Myokardinfarkt, Schlaganfall, koronarer Revaskularisation und kardiovaskulärem Tod bei erwachsenen Patienten mit bestehender atherosklerotischer Erkrankung oder mit mehreren Risikofaktoren für eine kardiovaskuläre Erkrankung zu verringern. Der Empfehlungsgrad zur kardiovaskulären Prophylaxe wurde in den aktuellen ESC-Leitlinien von 2024 von IIb auf IIa angehoben. Klinische Studien der vergangenen Jahre belegen ferner einen Effekt beim akuten Koronarsyndrom und Vorhofflimmern. Diese Übersichtsarbeit beleuchtet das Wirksamkeits- und Sicherheitsprofil von Colchicin und bietet einen Einblick in rezente und mögliche zukünftige evidenzbasierte Anwendungsgebiete.
A comparative study of VR and AR heritage applications on visitor emotional experiences: a case study from a peripheral Spanish destination
Authors: Pinto Irene , Huertas Assumpció 
Published: February 2025

Abstract
VR (virtual reality) and AR (augmented reality) applications are increasingly being implemented in the heritage and cultural tourism sector, generating immersive and engaging visitor experiences. Taking into account the gaps in the literature concerning the topic, the objective of this study is to compare the emotional impacts of VR and AR applications on the visitor experience in two heritage sites in the peripheral town of Ulldecona (Catalonia, Spain). Through a qualitative real-world study, combining participants’ self-reports and participant observation, the analysis will be conducted by examining visitors’ reactions across five dimensions of emotions identified in the literature (Soon et al. in Psychol Mark 40(11):2387–2412, 2023) and adapted to this context: the cognitive, affective, physiological, motivational and expressive dimensions. Both positive and negative effects are explored to provide a comprehensive understanding of the visitor experience. Results reveal that what visitors express does not always match their sensorial and physical behaviour during the experience. Additionally, VR and AR applications elicit different reactions among visitors due to their varying degree of immersivity. This research provides valuable insights to the literature on VR, AR and heritage tourism, emphasising the need for a mixed-method approach to further explore advanced technologies’ impacts on visitors at heritage sites.
Low prevalence of methotrexate intolerance in rheumatoid arthritis: a South African study
Authors: Qwabe Namuhla , Paruk Farhanah , Mody Girish Mahasukhlal 
Published: February 2025

Abstract

Introduction
Methotrexate (MTX) is the first line therapy for rheumatoid arthritis (RA), and despite its widespread use, there is very little information about MTX intolerance in sub-Saharan Africa. The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence of MTX intolerance and other reasons for stopping MTX in RA in South Africa.

Methods
A retrospective chart review of all RA patients seen at Inkosi Albert Luthuli Hospital in Durban from 2009 to 2019 was undertaken. We included patients who received MTX for at least three months. All patients received folic acid supplements. Patients who discontinued MTX were categorized as having either MTX related toxicity or other reasons.

Results
A total of 695 patients were identified with a female to male ratio of 7:1. The mean age was 57.9 (± 13.3) years, and median duration of MTX use was 67.0 (39.0—106.0) months. Most of the patients were African Blacks (61.2%), and Indians (32.8%). There were 83 (11.9%) patients who stopped MTX, and it was successfully reintroduced in 25 of them. Thus, 58 (8.3%) patients discontinued therapy, 33 (4.7%) due to intolerance and 25 (3.6%) due to factors other than adverse effects. The commonest causes of MTX intolerance were respiratory, gastrointestinal and haematological. The other reasons for discontinuation included co-morbidities and pregnancy related concerns.

Conclusions
The low prevalence of MTX intolerance in a multiethnic population in this single centre study, confirms the value of MTX as anchor therapy, especially in resource constrained settings.

Key Points• We report a low and similar prevalence of methotrexate intolerance in a large population of African Blacks and Indians with RA in sub-Saharan Africa.• Even though there was heterogeneity among other studies, our review indicates that MTX was tolerated better in our patients compared to patients in Europe and the United States of America.
A new era of learning: exploring science teachers’ perceptions of virtual lab in rural schools
Authors: Shambare Brian , Jita Thuthukile 
Published: February 2025

Abstract
Virtual learning technologies have become integral in education globally, with developed countries leading in implementation. In contrast, Global South countries like South Africa are only beginning to conceptualise Virtual Laboratory (VL) integration, with limited practical implementation. This study underscores the importance of understanding teachers’ perceptions of VL before deployment to minimise the risk of underuse or abandonment. Guided by the Technology Acceptance Model Davis (MIS Quarterly 13(3):319–340, 1989), this research employed a sequential explanatory mixed-methods approach. In Phase 1, 186 Life Sciences teachers from South Africa’s Eastern Cape province participated in a survey and semi-structured interviews with four teachers in Phase 2. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and thematic analysis. Findings reveal that teachers perceive VL positively and see potential benefits for rural education. The study also signals that intent alone may not lead to full adoption. This study contributes unique insights from rural teachers often absent in the broader technology adoption dialogue.
High-frequency diatom dynamics seen in an ice- and snow-covered temperate lake using an imaging-in-flow cytometer
Authors: Tapics Tara , Gregory-Eaves Irene , Huot Yannick 
Published: February 2025

Abstract
The study of winter in temperate, ice-covered lakes has largely been neglected, creating a major gap in our understanding of annual phytoplankton cycles. We assessed patterns in biovolumes of Asterionella, cf. Synedra, Urosolenia, and total phytoplankton at three depths during the winter of 2014/2015 as estimated using images from an Imaging FlowCytobot (IFCB) moored in Lac (Lake) Montjoie, Quebec (Canada). Even though the use of the IFCB under-ice presented challenges, these were outstripped by its advantages. The IFCB provided unprecedented high temporal and spatial resolution phytoplankton count and biovolume data that allowed patterns of abundance to be observed in detail. Interestingly, the IFCB captured an abundance of Urosolenia, which may be dissolved in standard Lugol’s-preserved grab samples. We found Asterionella grew until mid-December and then slowly decreased towards the spring, whereas cf. Synedra diatoms decreased from early December and then rebounded towards late December as light increased before falling again towards the spring. Urosolenia peaked in late December as cf. Synedra diatoms rebounded and then began to decline towards the spring. Total phytoplankton declined towards late December, increased in the beginning of January and then declined towards the spring. The studied diatoms maintained considerable under-ice seed populations and grew when light was sufficient.
A Review on Meditation: History, Transcendental Dimensions and Application in Psychology and Psychotherapy
Authors: Christopoulou Efthymia , Pavlopoulos Vassilis 
Published: February 2025

Abstract
Meditation is a widely used and long-researched psychological tool worldwide. Despite numerous descriptions, the necessary and sufficient criteria for defining and understanding it have not been adequately established. Instead, we are witnessing an alternative use of meditation and mindfulness, along with ambiguity regarding its history and origins. While meditation is often linked to Buddhist origin, it actually has prehistoric roots and historical continuity. It originates in Indian philosophy, traverses various philosophical and religious systems worldwide, and has acquired a completely secular dimension, particularly in psychology and psychotherapy. This intersection of scientificity and transcedence opens a holistic perspective. The main purpose of this article is to critically reflect on the study and application of meditation in psychology and psychotherapy.
Work Ability during the Return to Work Process: Results from a Mixed Methods Follow-Up Study Among Employees with Common Mental Disorders
Authors: Sikora Alexandra , Stegmann Ralf , Schröder Ute B. , Schulz Inga L. , Wegewitz Uta , Bültmann Ute 
Published: February 2025

Abstract

Purpose
A main goal during the return to work (RTW) process after a long-term sickness absence due to common mental disorders (CMDs), is to restore and maintain employees’ work ability to enable their sustained work participation. This study jointly examined employees’ work ability ratings and experiences during their RTW process with CMDs.

Methods
In a mixed methods follow-up study of N = 286 participants, work ability was quantitatively assessed with the Work Ability Score (WAS, range 0–10) at baseline (week before clinical discharge) and after 6, 12, 18, and 30 months. In a sub-sample, the qualitative work ability experiences of N = 32 participants were analysed at 6 and 12 months, and were jointly evaluated with the quantitative data.

Results
The mean WAS increased during the first 18 months of follow-up. Three groups of qualitative work ability experiences emerged: Employees with (1) poor work ability (WAS 0–3), who did not RTW yet and described great difficulties in coping with everyday life, (2) moderate work ability (WAS 4–6), who mainly did RTW, but still showed a certain level of fragility, and (3) good to very good work ability (WAS 7–10), who mainly returned to work and reported many individual and work accommodations to maintain their work ability.

Conclusion
The present study provides new insights into different aspects of work ability experiences, especially during the later RTW phases, where restoring and maintaining work ability is essential for a sustained work participation. This knowledge may help RTW stakeholders to better tailor support during the RTW process.
On the Cheeger Inequality in Carnot-Carathéodory Spaces
Authors: Kluitenberg Martijn 
Published: February 2025

Abstract
We generalize the Cheeger inequality, a lower bound on the first nontrivial eigenvalue of a Laplacian, to the case of geometric sub-Laplacians on rank-varying Carnot-Carathéodory spaces and we describe a concrete method to lower bound the Cheeger constant. The proof is geometric, and works for Dirichlet, Neumann and mixed boundary conditions. One of the main technical tools in the proof is a generalization of Courant’s nodal domain theorem, which is proven from scratch for Neumann and mixed boundary conditions. Carnot groups and the Baouendi-Grushin cylinder are treated as examples.