bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Inhomogeneous energy injection in the 21-cm power spectrum: Sensitivity to dark matter decay
Authors: Sun Yitian , Foster Joshua W. , Liu Hongwan , Muñoz Julian B. , Slatyer Tracy R.
Published: February 2025

The 21-cm signal provides a novel avenue to measure the thermal state of the Universe during cosmic dawn and reionization (redshifts z∼5–30), and thus to probe energy injection from decaying or annihilating dark matter (DM). These DM processes are inherently inhomogeneous: both decay and annihilation are density-dependent, and furthermore, the fraction of injected energy that is deposited at each point depends on the gas ionization and density, leading to further anisotropies in absorption and propagation. In this work, we develop a new framework for modeling the impact of spatially inhomogeneous energy injection and deposition during cosmic dawn, accounting for ionization and baryon density dependence, as well as the attenuation of propagating photons. We showcase how this first completely inhomogeneous treatment affects the predicted 21-cm power spectrum in the presence of exotic sources of energy injection, and forecast the constraints that upcoming HERA measurements of the 21-cm power spectrum will set on DM decays to photons and to electron/positron pairs. These projected constraints considerably surpass those derived from CMB and Lyman-α measurements, and for decays to electron/positron pairs they exceed all existing constraints in the sub-GeV mass range, reaching lifetimes of ∼1028  s. Our analysis demonstrates the unprecedented sensitivity of 21-cm cosmology to exotic sources of energy injection during the cosmic dark ages. Our code, 21cm, includes all these effects and is publicly available in an accompanying release.

Published by the American Physical Society
2025
Wave function renormalization in asymptotically safe quantum gravity
Authors: Kawai Hikaru , Ohta Nobuyoshi
Published: February 2025

We discuss the effect of wave function renormalization (WFR) in asymptotically safe gravity. We show that there are two WFR-invariant quantities, and the renormalization (RG) equations may be written entirely in terms of these quantities. The same set of RG equations can be obtained whether we fix the vacuum energy or Newton coupling along the RG trajectory. The flow of the Newton constant and the vacuum energy is also discussed in detail. In particular we discuss how the vacuum energy behaves near the singular barrier in the low energy.

Published by the American Physical Society
2025
Bounds on Heavy Axions with an X-Ray Free Electron Laser
Authors: Halliday Jack W. D. , Marocco Giacomo , Beyer Konstantin A. , Heaton Charles , Nakatsutsumi Motoaki , Preston Thomas R. , Arrowsmith Charles D. , Baehtz Carsten , Goede Sebastian , Humphries Oliver , Garcia Alejandro Laso , Plackett Richard , Svensson Pontus , Vacalis Georgios , Wark Justin , Wood Daniel , Zastrau Ulf , Bingham Robert , Shipsey Ian , Sarkar Subir , Gregori Gianluca
Published: February 2025

We present new exclusion bounds obtained at the European X-Ray Free Electron Laser facility (EuXFEL) on axionlike particles in the mass range 10−3  eV≲ma≲104  eV. Our experiment exploits the Primakoff effect via which photons can, in the presence of a strong external electric field, decay into axions, which then convert back into photons after passing through an opaque wall. While similar searches have been performed previously at a third-generation synchrotron [Yamaji , ], our work demonstrates improved sensitivity, exploiting the higher brightness of x-rays at EuXFEL.

Published by the American Physical Society
2025
Transmission grid stability with large interregional power flows
Authors: Martínez-Barbeito María , Gomila Damià , Colet Pere , Fritzsch Julian , Jacquod Philippe
Published: February 2025

We propose a general methodology for identifying critical lines in the long-distance transmission of power across large electric grids. When the system is pushed to its operational limit, for instance by large power imbalances such as those generated by high penetration of variable renewable energy sources, the network gets destabilized and loses synchrony. We investigate a model of the synchronous AC grid of continental Europe under tunable large interregional power flows. When those flows exceed some critical value, we find that instabilities emerge due to topological constraints. We identify two different scenarios triggering these instabilities. In the first one, specific sets of lines reach their maximal load simultaneously, causing the grid to split into two desynchronized zones. In the second one, one or a few lines become overloaded, which eventually renders one Lyapunov exponent positive. The first scenario is obviously less generic and we develop a numerical approach to force the splitting of the AC grid into disconnected areas. Remarkably, the critical lines identified in this way match those that triggered the separation of the synchronous grid of continental Europe in two instances in 2021. We further discuss how the modes of the system provide information on which areas are more susceptible to lose synchrony with each other.

Published by the American Physical Society
2025
Synchronization and metachronal waves of elastic cilia caused by unsteady viscous flow
Authors: von Kenne Albert , Schmelter Sonja , Stark Holger , Bär Markus
Published: February 2025

Hydrodynamic coordination of cilia is ubiquitous in biology. It is commonly modeled using the steady Stokes equations. The flow around ciliated cells, however, exhibits finite-time vorticity diffusion, requiring a dynamical description. We present a model of elastic cilia coupled by unsteady viscous flow in the bulk fluid. Therein, vorticity diffusion impacts cilia coordination qualitatively and quantitatively. In particular, pairs of cilia synchronize in antiphase for long diffusion times. Moreover, metachronal waves occur in cilia chains larger than the viscous penetration depth, whereas global synchronization occurs in Stokes flow.

Published by the American Physical Society
2025
Assessing the quantity and quality of corporate social responsibility disclosures on websites: an empirical analysis on largest Islamic and conventional banks worldwide
Authors: Radwan Elhassan Kotb Abdelrahman , Győri Zsuzsanna , Russo Antonella
Published: February 2025

Purpose

The study aims to evaluate and compare the quantity and quality levels of corporate social responsibility disclosure (CSRD) practices on the websites of the largest Islamic and conventional banks worldwide.

Design/methodology/approach

Two indices were developed: the quantity index, consisting of seven categories, and the quality index, which includes eight characteristics, to adopt the quantitative content analysis of the global leading 94 Islamic and 100 conventional banks’ websites.

Findings

The results show that conventional banks have higher levels of CSRD quantity and quality on their websites than those of Islamic banks. The study found that the products and services category is the most disclosed by largest Islamic and conventional banks worldwide, while environment and energy information is the lowest for Islamic banks and employee and human resource information is less common for conventional ones. The analysis reveals low levels of CSRD quantity and quality on Islamic banks’ websites (43.69% and 54.56%) and high levels on conventional banks’ websites (70.84% and 73.26%).

Research limitations/implications

The study focuses on analyzing the quantity and quality of CSRD on English-accessible websites of the largest Islamic and conventional banks in 2022, focusing on English as a uniform language for data collection because it analyzed 194 websites from 48 countries with over 20 languages.

Practical implications

The results of this study are likely to be valuable to many interested parties because they inform investors about the status of CSRD practices on the largest Islamic and conventional banks’ websites worldwide and how they disclose such information. To ensure investor satisfaction and accurate investment decisions, these global banks should provide comprehensive and high-quality CSR information on their websites to show how they contribute to CSR activities. For scholars, its limitations may be helpful in their future research.

Originality/value

The originality of this paper derives from its focus on largest-world Islamic and non-Islamic banks, collecting primary data directly from their websites, and offering valuable theoretical, methodological and practical insights.
Resilience tactics amid the Coronavirus pandemic in the Nigerian construction sector
Authors: Ilesanmi Oluwadamilare Olamide , Moyanga Dorcas T. , Ojo Lekan Damilola
Published: February 2025

Purpose

The COVID-19 pandemic posed significant challenges to the construction sector, emphasizing the need for resilience to maintain productivity, ensure project safety and support a sustainable built environment. This study aims to investigate resilience tactics adopted by the Nigerian construction sector to mitigate the pandemic’s impact, addressing a gap in existing literature on resilience practices in developing economies.

Design/methodology/approach

An extensive literature review identified resilience tactics applied in the construction industry during the COVID-19 pandemic. A questionnaire was developed based on this information. It was distributed to registered consulting and contracting firms in Nigeria. The data was analyzed using mean score, standard deviation and exploratory factor analysis, with reliability confirmed via Cronbach’s alpha.

Findings

Four main resilience tactics emerged from the analysis: new ideas/innovative tactics, financial sustainability tactics, contractual flexibility tactics and smart construction safety. Among these, the innovative tactic was identified as the most significant, reflecting a shift toward adaptive, technology-driven approaches. These tactics were crucial in enhancing worker engagement, maintaining productivity and improving safety protocols during the pandemic.

Practical implications

This study provides actionable insights for construction stakeholders and organizations, equipping them to implement these resilience tactics in anticipation of future disruptions. The application of these tactics strengthens the sector’s ability to withstand and recover from crises.

Originality/value

This study uniquely contributes to resilience literature by offering a structured, empirical analysis of crisis management in Nigeria’s construction sector, differing from prior studies by focusing on a developing-economy context. It advances the understanding of sustainable resilience, enriching the body of knowledge on construction industry adaptability.
Social cognitive career theory and accounting students’ intentions to pursue an auditing career
Authors: Agyenim-Boateng Cletus , Tetteh Lexis Alexander , Mawutor John Kwaku Mensah , Kwarteng Amoako , Susuawu Daniel
Published: February 2025

Purpose

This study examines the effect of the social cognitive career theory (SCCT) factors (job stress, accounting stereotypes, job satisfaction and job prestige) on accounting students’ intentions to pursue a career in auditing and the moderating role of ethical codes of conduct.

Design/methodology/approach

The study employed a survey design with a quantitative approach to data analysis. Data was gathered from a sample of 277 accounting students by adapting a closed-ended questionnaire. To test the hypotheses, the data were analysed using partial least square structural equation modelling.

Findings

The results indicate a significant negative relationship between accounting students’ aspirations to pursue a profession in auditing and their self-efficacy expectations. However, there was a significant positive correlation between their intention to pursue a career in auditing and their outcome expectations. Furthermore, a moderation test was conducted, which demonstrated that ethical codes of conduct strengthen the relationships between self-efficacy and outcome expectation factors and students’ intention to pursue career in auditing.

Research limitations/implications

Most participants lacked auditing job experience. Peers, relatives, educators and cultural norms may have influenced them to withhold honest and precise survey responses, undermining the results.

Practical implications

Educators can utilise the research findings on self-efficacy to direct accounting students in developing positive self-efficacy attitudes towards a career in auditing, rather than perceiving the auditing profession as stressful and characterised by stereotypes.

Originality/value

Utilising an extended version of the SCCT, this study provides empirical and theoretically grounded contributions to the existing body of knowledge regarding the factors that influence accounting students’ intentions to pursue a career in auditing.
Linking green intellectual capital and firm performance through green innovation and environmental performance in small and medium-sized enterprises
Authors: Kumar Jitender , Rani Vinki , Rani Manju , Rani Garima
Published: February 2025

Purpose

Green intellectual capital is broadly acknowledged as an invaluable resource for attaining a strategic advantage for enterprises. This article develops a novel theoretical framework to assess the impact of green intellectual capital on firms’ performance through green innovation and environmental performance, considering the “natural resource-based view (NRBV)” theory.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper applied a “quantitative research design” with a sample of 405 managers and owners of “small and medium enterprises” (SMEs) from NCR (India). The data were analyzed through the “covariance-based structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM)” technique.

Findings

The outcomes showed that green human capital and green structural capital substantially impact green innovation and environmental performance. Nevertheless, green relational capital negatively affects green innovation and environmental performance. Additionally, green innovation and environmental performance significantly influence firm (market and financial) performance.

Practical implications

This article delivers fruitful and actionable insights for SME managers, owners, academicians and policymakers in measuring a firm’s capability to translate resources into green intellectual capital from the “Industrial Revolution 4.0” viewpoint to empower its innovation, environmental and firm performance.

Originality/value

The study pioneered the exploration of the different roles of green intellectual capital and green innovation in improving environmental and firm (“market and financial”) performance. Additionally, to the researchers’ best knowledge, no former research has earlier categorized the firm performance into “market and financial performance,” as outlined in this research, thereby contributing novel insights to the field of intellectual capital.
Analyzing behavioral intention of open government data adoption across Latvia, India and Poland: does national culture matter?
Authors: Sarantis Demetrios , Rizun Nina , Alexopoulos Charalampos , Saxena Stuti
Published: February 2025

Purpose

Given that there are cultural differences among countries, there is a scant understanding as to how the cultural differences among these countries get reflected in the intention to adopt and use open government data (OGD). The purpose of this study is to underscore the possible differences in OGD engagement based on the differences in the national cultures.

Design/methodology/approach

This study seeks to contribute toward OGD-focused literature as well as the technology adoption and usage literature by comparing the analyses across three countries, namely, Latvia (individualist) (n = 173), India (collectivist) (n = 174) and Poland (individualist) (n = 107), wherein the adapted unified theory of technology adoption and use model is invoked for drawing inferences with an extension into the group-wise analysis.

Findings

Findings from the analyses show that apart from the moderating effects of the country’s national culture across system quality-behavioral intention, data quality-behavioral intention and trust-behavioral intention, it is evidenced that Indian users show voluntary use and concern for data quality in comparison with Latvia’ users. Both Indian and Latvian users are concerned about the trustworthy and reliable OGD; users from both India and Poland seek high data quality; and, finally, users from both Latvia and Poland seek reliable and trustworthy OGD.

Originality/value

Despite the fact that national culture has been known to have a significant bearing on the OGD initiatives’ rollout and implementation, the behavioral intention of adoption and usage propensities among the users has not been empirically validated: this study seeks to contribute to the extant literature by focusing on this aspect.
Overwhelmed online: investigating perceived overload effects on social media cognitive fatigue via stressor-strain-outcome model
Authors: Tian Yang , Chan Tak Jie , Liew Tze Wei , Chen Ming Hui , Liu Huan Na
Published: February 2025

Purpose

Social media usage has been documented to affect the psychological well-being of its users. This study aims to examine how social media overload influences cognitive fatigue among individuals in Malaysia.

Design/methodology/approach

This study employed a comprehensive research framework based on the stressor-strain-outcome (SSO) model to examine how perceived overload affects social media cognitive fatigue through emotional exhaustion and anxiety. Survey data were gathered from 451 social media users in Malaysia, and data analysis was performed using PLS-SEM.

Findings

The findings revealed that information overload, communication overload and interruption overload are antecedents of emotional exhaustion. Communication overload, interruption overload and cognitive overload were identified as antecedents of anxiety, while emotional exhaustion and anxiety were confirmed as predictors of social media cognitive fatigue. However, pathway analysis indicated no relationship between emotional exhaustion and anxiety.

Originality/value

Our study contributes to the literature on media technology and media psychology by examining the psychological mechanisms (emotional exhaustion and anxiety). The findings offer implications for service providers, practitioners and social media users, as they facilitate measures and strategies to mitigate the adverse effects of social media while elevating psychological well-being.
Hybridised public management: Introduction to the special issue
Authors: Johanson Jan‐Erik , Vakkuri Jarmo , Mills David , Dudau Adina
Published: February 2025

Our analysis of the literature indicates a growing prominence of hybridity within the field of public administration. Hybrid arrangements incorporate ambiguities and controversies, but they also represent opportunities for joint action and goal achievement. The difficulties inherent in hybridity originate from the dichotomous view of the public–private divide and the underdeveloped measurement instruments. The contributions of this special issue address these challenges, providing extensive evidence as to the empirical reality of the manifold aspects of hybrid public management. Encouragingly, this knowledge enabled us to revisit existing hybridity models and provide an up‐to‐date Framework for Hybridised Public Management to further advance the development of theory and practice. Drawing on this framework, we suggest future research in key areas.

Points for practitioners

Public managers in hybrid organisations must adeptly communicate with varied audiences, each with distinct expectations. This requires tailoring messages to demonstrate the organisation's multi‐faceted value creation, encompassing public, private, and social benefits, to secure stakeholder buy‐in and support.

The integration of divergent goals and logics in hybrid organisations demands innovative organisational designs to manage these incongruences. Hybrid organisational structures and processes should foster cooperation among public, private, and civil society actors.

Traditional financial metrics often inadequately capture the complexity and societal value of hybrid arrangements. Practitioners should adopt and develop performance measurement systems that reflect the multi‐dimensional outcomes of hybridity, balancing financial, social, and public value considerations.

The inherent ambiguity in hybrid organisations can lead to excessive oversight that hinders innovation and goal alignment. Practitioners need to establish governance frameworks that mitigate ambiguity while ensuring accountability and preserving the core mission of the hybrid entity.

Public–private cooperation can be instrumental in leveraging additional public financing, not only for widening the resource base but also for gaining legitimacy.
How Institutional Financial Aid Relates to College Performance: A European Context
Authors: de Sivatte Isabel , Gabaldón Patricia
Published: February 2025

This study explores the relationship between institutional financial aid and undergraduate academic performance within a European context, grounded in Rational Choice Theory. Analysing data from 1776 Business Administration students at a selective European university, the research reveals that financial aid recipients achieve higher first‐year grade point average (GPA) than non‐recipients, with class attendance partially mediating this relationship. Unexpectedly, the study identifies a non‐linear relationship between aid amount and GPA, where GPA improves with low to moderate aid levels but plateaus at higher amounts. Both merit‐based and need‐based aid similarly increase GPAs. These findings suggest that financial aid recipients invest more effort in college, with some interesting nuances. Given that financial aid is a significant expense for institutions, these findings have substantial policy implications. They underscore the importance of institutional financial aid, the impact of class attendance, the determination of the optimal amount of aid, and the choice between merit‐based and need‐based aid.
Changes in flavour and aroma compounds of ultra‐high‐temperature processed and aseptic‐filled milk caused by storage conditions (temperature and duration)
Authors: Suzuki Taisuke , Akiyama Masayuki , Watanabe Kanae , Watanabe Taketoshi , Kato Mika , Murakami Yusuke , Wakao Shoji , Yanagisawa Eiko
Published: February 2025

The changes during a 4‐month storage period at 5 or 25°C were investigated for sensory characteristics, volatiles and odorants of indirect (plate‐type) ultra‐high‐temperature processed and aseptically filled milk. Quantitative descriptive analysis (QDA) showed that “plastic odour” and “smoothness” were stronger in the milk stored at 25°C for 2 and 4 months versus 5°C. Principal component analysis (PCA) of gas chromatography–mass spectrometry data revealed that the volatile profile change was larger at 25°C versus 5°C and that the storage duration at 25°C affected the volatile profile. Gas chromatography‐olfactometry (GC‐O) confirmed that similar changes were dependent on the storage temperature. A “coconut” odour contributed to the change in the odour profile. The QDA and GC‐O results suggest that the increase in the “plastic odour” was a specific change associated with the 25°C stored milk and that (Z)‐6‐dodecen‐4‐olide, which had the strongest “coconut” odour, was related to the “plastic odour”.
Does Climate Change Hinder Women's Participation in the Labour Market in Africa?
Authors: Ntamack Simon Alain Song , Song Jacques Simon
Published: February 2025

Climate change remains a global threat whose disparate and controversial impacts over the past three decades have fuelled an extremely fertile literature. In this article, we analyse its effects on women's participation in the labour market (WPLM) based on a sample of 48 African countries. For this purpose, we consider two dimensions of climate change (temperature and rainfall), then specify and estimate a dynamic panel data model using the System Generalised Method of Moments (S‐GMM) over the period 2000–2019. Our results show that approximate climate change significantly reduces women's labour market participation in Africa due to exposure to greater vulnerability, particularly with respect to agriculture, which is their main source of income. The robustness of the results is demonstrated by the women's sectoral employment in agriculture, industry and services through Africa. We suggest the effectiveness of sustainable climate policies to consolidate and ensure better integration of women in the labour market and improve the gender equity in the African workforce.
Pathogenicity of Serratia marcescens strains as biological control agent: Implications for sustainable pest management
Authors: Akhtar Muhammad Rehan , Younas Muhammad , Xia Xiaofeng
Published: February 2025

The escalating demand for sustainable and eco‐friendly pest management strategies has raised interest in harnessing the pathogenic potential of microorganisms. Serratia marcescens, a Gram‐negative bacterium, has emerged as a potential biological control agent for sustainable pest management. This review critically examines the history, biology, identification, and pathogenicity of S. marcescens strain with their potential application in pest management. The diverse mechanisms employed by the strain to exert control over pests, including the production of metabolites and the induction of systemic resistance in plants, are examined. The review also summarizes the ecological significance and global distribution of S. marcescens associated with the use of S. marcescens in biological control strategies. Furthermore, the usage efficacy of S. marcescens over other conventional chemicals is discussed. A comprehensive understanding of the pathogenic potential of S. marcescens strains as biological control agents is crucial for developing effective and sustainable pest management strategies. This review consolidates current research advances on S. marcescens, and provides insights into the prospects and challenges of using S. marcescens for integrated pest management.
Effects of swine manure mixed with circulating fluidized bed fly ash on black soldier fly (Diptera: Stratiomyidae) larvae and larval frass
Authors: Hao Jianwei , Liu Shuang , Wang Mengliang , Hu Wenfeng , Zhao Jia
Published: February 2025

Black soldier fly larvae (BSFL) were reared on mixtures of swine manure and circulating fluidized bed fly ash (CFA) in different ratios. The aim was to evaluate the impacts of insoluble inorganic matter on BSFL and larval frass. The growth performance and nutrient composition of the BSFL were measured under different treatments. The intestinal microbiota structure, morphological characteristics, and total proteolytic activity of the gut were analyzed. The larval frass was tested for nutrients and analyzed using energy‐dispersive spectroscopy and scanning electron micrographs. In particular, the surface areas of microparticles from the larval frass (diameter < 0.0074 mm) were measured using Brunauer–Emmett–Teller method. It was found that CFA addition prolonged larval development and reduced the maximum larval weights. The mean larval length, crude protein, and highest larval weight showed negative regression with an increase in the CFA ratio (P < 0.05). Morphological images indicated that physical clogging might be the main influencing factor on larval growth. Moreover, the microbial diversity and complexity in the larval gut increased with CFA addition, but CFA addition had little effect on the composition of dominant phyla or genera (P > 0.05). Finally, the nutrient composition revealed that the frass met the organic fertilizer standard when the CFA addition ratio was less than 7.5%. The optimal addition ratio was 5%, at which the larvae had a more stable and healthier gut environment, but there was less of an effect on larval growth and nutrient composition. Moreover, particles from 5% CFA mixture had the highest surface area.
Climate Sustainability as a Catalyst for Quality and Excellence in Gastrointestinal Endoscopy: A Narrative Review
Authors: Ang Tiing Leong
Published: February 2025

The significant contribution of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions to global warming and the resultant negative impact on health is well established. Within the hospital setting, the endoscopy center has been ranked third—after the operating theater complex and intensive care unit—in terms of the volume of hazardous medical waste generated. Such regulated medical waste cannot be recycled, and the disposal process results in higher costs and a larger carbon footprint. There have been clarion calls to reduce the number of endoscopic procedures as a means of reducing GHG emissions. Previous studies have demonstrated the carbon footprint of inappropriate endoscopic procedures. However, endoscopy is an important diagnostic and therapeutic tool that has been shown to be cost‐effective. A focus simply on reduction in procedural case volume alone raises the unintended consequences of inequitable access to endoscopy for those in need. A more nuanced approach that is aligned with the innate sense of healthcare professional aspirations and pride, in terms of seeking quality and clinical excellence, should be considered. An evidence‐based approach, with a focus on quality and efficiency, as well as appropriate and timely use of new technology, will serve as a catalyst for positive behavioral change toward quality procedures and excellence. This will improve patient satisfaction, increase professional expertise and pride, and reduce carbon footprint through minimization of inappropriate and avoidable repeat procedures.
Stability of Thermoablation Antenna Using a Patient‐Mounted Navigation System: Initial Clinical Experience
Authors: Shamseldin Mohammed , Sayer Herbert , Puls Ralf
Published: February 2025

Purpose

CT‐guided microwave ablation (MWA) has become a standard procedure for a range of therapeutic and diagnostic indications, but accurate and stable positioning of the antenna is critical. In this retrospective case series, a navigation guide with a physical cube component, the Access Cube (AC), was investigated as a stability support in addition to its use as a navigation system. To our knowledge, this is the first investigation of stability in MWA.

Materials and Methods

Eight MWAs performed at one centre using the AC were reviewed for clinical and technical success. The stability of the antenna was assessed by subjectively comparing the Euclidian distance (ED) between the needle tip location in the final control scan and confirmation scan. A practising radiologist not associated with the study independently assessed the coordinates, and the mean was calculated from the results.

Results

Six patients (eight procedures) were included (4 females). Mean age of the patients was 75.8 years (range 58–87). Diagnoses included liver metastasis (4, 50%), renal cell carcinoma (2, 25%) and 1 case each (12.5%) of hepatocellular carcinoma and lung metastasis. Mean tumour size was 2.4 cm (range 1.0–4.3 cm), with a mean depth of 10.6 cm (range 5–18 cm). Mean ED of needle tip between final control scan and confirmation scan was 5.82 mm. Technical and clinical success were achieved in all cases with one Grade 2 complication arising.

Conclusion

Usage of the AC was a beneficial addition to the MWA process. Good stability of the antenna was achieved when placed through the AC, eliminating the need for the clinician to manually hold the antenna in place during ablation.

Level of Evidence

Level 4, Case Series.
A High‐Throughput Ancient DNA Extraction Method for Large‐Scale Sample Screening
Authors: Gilardet Alexandre , Lord Edana , García Gonzalo Oteo , Xenikoudakis Georgios , Douka Katerina , Wooller Matthew J. , Rowe Timothy , Martin Michael D. , Le Moullec Mathilde , Anisimov Michail , Heintzman Peter D. , Dalén Love
Published: February 2025

Large‐scale DNA screening of palaeontological and archaeological collections remains a limiting and costly factor for ancient DNA studies. Several DNA extraction protocols are routinely used in ancient DNA laboratories and have even been automated on robotic platforms. Robots offer a solution for high‐throughput screening but the costs, as well as necessity for trained technicians and engineers, can be prohibitive for some laboratories. Here, we present a high‐throughput alternative to robot‐based ancient DNA extraction using a 96‐column plate. When compared to routine single MinElute columns, we retrieved highly similar endogenous DNA contents, an important metric in ancient DNA screening. Mitogenomes with a coverage depth greater than 0.1× could be generated and allowed for taxonomic assignment. However, average fragment lengths, DNA damage and library complexities significantly differed between methods but these differences became nonsignificant after modification of our library purification protocol. Our high‐throughput extraction method allows generation of 96 extracts within approximately 4 hours of laboratory work while bringing the cost down by ~39% compared to using single columns. Additionally, we formally demonstrate that the addition of Tween‐20 during the elution step results in higher complexity libraries, thereby enabling higher genome coverage for the same sequencing effort.
The Competitive Conduct of Consumer Cooperatives
Authors: Duarte Marco , Magnolfi Lorenzo , Roncoroni Camilla
Published: February 2025

Consumer cooperatives are firms owned by their customers. Although their organizational form should commit these firms not to exploit their market power, in practice, weak governance may allow managers to pursue other objectives. Using data and a structural model, we test whether consumer cooperatives in the Italian supermarket industry act as profit‐maximizing firms. We find no significant deviations from profit maximization. Based on a counterfactual exercise, even a mild degree of internalization of consumer welfare by the cooperatives that we study would yield consumer welfare gains comparable to the regulatory advantages they enjoy.
Is Resale Needed in Markets with Refunds? Evidence from College Football Ticket Sales
Authors: Vollmer Drew
Published: February 2025

In what circumstances is allowing resale more efficient than providing refunds? I study common aftermarket policies in perishable goods markets with demand uncertainty. Using primary and resale market data on college football ticket sales, I estimate a structural model comparing resale, which has flexible prices but incurs frictions, to a partial refund scheme, which is centralized but has rigid prices. In the model, consumers anticipate shocks when making initial purchases, then engage in resale after shocks are realized. Because of resale frictions, refunds are more efficient on average. However, flexible prices make resale more efficient after large aggregate shocks.
Endogenous Prices in Markets with Reputational Concerns
Authors: Knutsen Magnus Våge
Published: February 2025

I set up a dynamic experience goods model where a long‐lived seller interacts with a sequence of short‐lived buyers and where the seller has reputational concerns. The key innovation of the article is to endogenize prices in this framework, specifically by endowing either the seller or the buyers with the ability to post price. I show that influence over prices has a strong impact on equilibrium characteristics. If the seller posts price, equilibria will display work‐shirk dynamics. If the buyers post price, however, there is always an equilibrium where the seller builds and perpetually maintains her reputation.
Novel TORC1 inhibitor Ecl1 is regulated by phosphorylation in fission yeast
Authors: Ohtsuka Hokuto , Kawai Sawa , Ito Yurika , Kato Yuka , Shimasaki Takafumi , Imada Kazuki , Otsubo Yoko , Yamashita Akira , Mishiro‐Sato Emi , Kuwata Keiko , Aiba Hirofumi
Published: February 2025

Extender of chronological lifespan 1 (Ecl1) inhibits target of rapamycin complex 1 (TORC1) and is necessary for appropriate cellular responses to various stressors, such as starvation, in fission yeast. However, little is known about the effect of posttranslational modifications on Ecl1 regulation. Thus, we investigated the phosphorylation levels of Ecl1 extracted from yeast under conditions of sulfur or metal starvation. Mass spectrometry analysis revealed that Ecl1 was phosphorylated at Thr7, and the level was decreased by starvation. The phosphorylation‐mimetic mutation of Thr7 significantly reduced the effects of Ecl1‐induced cellular responses to starvation, suggesting that Ecl1 function was suppressed by Thr7 phosphorylation. By contrast, regardless of starvation exposure, TORC1 was significantly suppressed, even when Thr7 phosphorylation‐mimetic Ecl1 was overexpressed. This indicated that Ecl1 suppressed TORC1 regardless of Thr7 phosphorylation. We newly identified that Ecl1 physically interacted with TORC1 subunit RAPTOR (Mip1). Based on these evidences, we propose that, Ecl1 has dual functional modes: quantity‐dependent TORC1 inhibition and Thr7 phosphorylation–dependent control of cellular function.
“He was not listening to hear me”: Parent experiences with communication, inclusion, and marginalization in the pediatric emergency department
Authors: Gutman Colleen K. , McFarlane Antionette , Fernandez Rosemarie , Lion K. Casey , Aronson Paul L. , Bylund Carma L. , Joseph Nancy , Mecias Maria L. , Fisher Carla L.
Published: February 2025

Objective

Inequities in pediatric emergency department (ED) care may be influenced by disparities in clinician communication. We sought to examine, from the perspective of parents from marginalized racial and ethnic backgrounds, how clinician–parent communication is characterized during pediatric ED visits.

Methods

We conducted and analyzed in‐depth semistructured individual interviews with parents of pediatric ED patients from marginalized racial and ethnic backgrounds. We applied a constant comparative method approach to conduct a thematic analysis informed by grounded theory. To ensure rigor, we collected and analyzed data concurrently. We used the patient‐centered communication (PCC) framework and the 10 principles of Public Health Critical Race Praxis as sensitizing constructs during analysis. Two coders followed several analytical steps: (1) open coding for concept discovery, (2) grouping concepts into themes, (3) axial coding to identify thematic properties, and (4) identification of exemplar excerpts for rich description. Thematic saturation was based on repetition, recurrence, and forcefulness.

Results

Nineteen parents participated. Parents described three clinician communicative behaviors that facilitated their sense of inclusion or marginalization: information exchange, empathic communication, and partnership‐building. Parents also stressed the importance of their own proactive communication in facilitating their inclusion. Few participants described experiencing racism during their child's ED visit, yet many did during prior health care encounters, which they connected to their current experience. In particular, parents described how their use of proactive communication was motivated by their past experiences of racism in medical encounters.

Conclusions

These narratives demonstrate ways in which experienced racism, both past and present, may inform how parents receive and respond to gaps in PCC. Communication focused interventions that adapt a race‐conscious perspective may have a role in promoting health equity.
Quality traits of the lady beetle Eriopis connexa (Germar) resistant to pyrethroids over 130 generations of rearing
Authors: Costa Leandra O. , Lira Rogério , Silva‐Torres Christian S. A. , Torres Jorge Braz
Published: February 2025

Augmentative biological control requires the rearing of large quantities of natural enemies to meet customers' demands. We hypothesise that successive generations of an insecticide‐resistant lady beetle population, under constant physical conditions and fed alternative prey, could compromise its quality as a natural enemy. Adaptive costs of resistance are particularly high in insecticide‐resistant populations.

The predatory lady beetle, Eriopis connexa (Germar), exhibits resistance to λ‐cyhalothrin (EcViR), and others pyrethroids. We compared the biological and predatory traits of the EcViR population to those of a field‐collected and susceptible population (EcCV).

During 35 days of observations, when females from both populations faced food shortages, EcViR females demonstrated higher fecundity and similar survival rates. Predation of the aphid, Lipaphis pseudobrassicae (Davis), resulted in a similar response for both populations and greater aphid consumption by EcViR beetles in the presence of λ‐cyhalothrin residue. Rearing larvae and adults at three constant temperatures (18, 25, and 32°C) resulted in similar developmental times between populations, but adult EcCV beetles were larger and produced more eggs at 25 and 32°C. The results show that food shortages did not affect the reproductive output or the developmental time at 18, 25, and 32°C in EcViR compared with EcCV. Nevertheless, egg production at 25 and 32°C was lower for EcViR females than for EcCV.

Among the studied traits, only an effect on fecundity was observed, as predicted previously, due to the adaptive cost of resistance in EcViR, which became more evident at higher temperatures.
Evaluation of Complete Blood Parameters and Inflammation Markers in Spontaneous Preterm Labor
Authors: Tokgöz Çakır Betül , Aktemur Gizem , Karabay Gülşan , Şeyhanlı Zeynep , Sucu Sadun , Bucak Mevlüt , Filiz Ahmet Arif , Vanlı Tonyalı Nazan , Aydoğan Seda , Özgürlük İzzet , Çelen Şevki
Published: February 2025

Aim

This study aims to evaluate the relationship between systemic inflammatory markers, derived from complete blood count (CBC) parameters, and spontaneous preterm labor. By comparing these markers between preterm and term pregnancies, the study seeks to determine their potential predictive value for adverse neonatal outcomes, including birth weight, APGAR (appearance, pulse, grimace, activity, and respiration) scores, and neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) admission.

Methods

This study evaluated inflammatory markers in 478 women with spontaneous preterm labor and a gestational age‐matched control group. Blood samples were collected prior to the onset of labor to assess CBC parameters (white blood cells [WBC], red blood cells [RBC], neutrophils, lymphocytes, and platelet counts), as well as various inflammatory ratios, such as the systemic immune‐inflammation index (SII), systemic inflammation response index (SIRI), and aggregate index of systemic inflammation (AISI). Neonatal outcomes, such as birth weight, APGAR scores, and NICU admission, were recorded.

Results

The preterm group showed significantly higher WBC, RBC, neutrophil, lymphocyte, and platelet counts compared to the control group. MLR, MPR, and MPVLR were notably lower in the preterm group. However, these hematological parameters and inflammatory markers demonstrated limited predictive value for adverse neonatal outcomes, with area under the curve (AUC) values hovering around 0.5.

Conclusions

WBC, RBC, neutrophils, lymphocytes, and platelet counts, along with inflammatory markers such as MLR, MPR, and MPVLR differ between preterm and term groups and can be derived from a simple CBC test. However, their predictive value for adverse neonatal outcomes remains limited.
Unilateral hypertrophy of the tensor fascia lata muscle: a need to revisit and review
Authors: Bonner Brady , Rowell Phillip , Boyle Richard , Johnson Luke , Jagiello Jakub , Lloyd Thomas , Sommerville Scott
Published: February 2025

Background

Unilateral hypertrophy of the tensor fascia lata muscle is a rare phenomenon with a variety of aetiological causes. It may mimic soft tissue sarcoma, which can lead to misdiagnosis and unnecessary invasive procedures.

Methods

A retrospective review was conducted of all adult patients referred to a statewide sarcoma service lata between January 2010 to June 2023 with confirmed unilateral hypertrophy of the tensor fascia. Their medical records and imaging were reviewed to identify the likely cause. All patients' histories, clinical findings and radiological investigations were reviewed by subspecialised radiologists and orthopaedic surgeons.

Results

We identified nine patients with unilateral hypertrophy of the tensor fascia lata muscle. Conservative treatment was recommended to all patients, however one patient who experienced hip pain pursued surgical excision of the tensor fascia lata at another centre, with ongoing pain in the region post‐operatively.

Conclusions

With ample awareness of the diagnosis and the imaging findings, this condition can be diagnosed based on history, examination and magnetic resonance imaging. Tissue biopsy and surgical excision are not indicated.
Building Hype: Libertarian Cities, Fictitious Development, and Speculative Dispossession in El Salvador's “Bitcoin City”
Authors: Gutiérrez Julio
Published: February 2025

Libertarian city projects are emerging as a new trend in capitalist urbanisation. One aspect about this trend is their location in rural Global South regions. The former raises questions about the role of these projects in the global land grab. This paper analyses the connection of libertarian city projects and land dispossession through the case of Bitcoin City in El Salvador. Data from news reports, surveys, and cadastral records show that the land dispossession associated with Bitcoin City is connected to a speculative dynamic generated by the project's intensive publicity. The media spectacle created by this publicity is intensifying pre‐existing land grabbing patterns oriented toward the construction of real estate projects. I argue that this phenomenon is a result of the ruling elite's attempt to construct a strategy of economic growth around a logic of financial accumulation. To explain the rationality behind this effort and its material impacts, I introduce the concept of fictitious development.
Generic Health‐Related Quality of Life of Children With Severe Peanut or Tree Nut Allergy
Authors: Saarimäki Lasse , Kivistö Juho E. , Ojaniemi Iida , Sintonen Harri , Huhtala Heini , Protudjer Jennifer L. P. , Ekström Sandra , Kull Inger , Karjalainen Jussi
Published: February 2025

Aim

Food allergies may decrease health‐related quality of life. We assessed health‐related quality of life in Finnish children at risk of a severe peanut or tree nut allergy and their parents.

Methods

Study included children aged 3–15 years referred to Tampere University Hospital for suspected severe nut allergy. Eligibility criteria included a history of anaphylaxis and/or molecular immunology testing referring for severe peanut and/or tree nut allergy. Health‐related quality of life was assessed with generic questionnaires 15D for adults, 16D for teenagers or 17D for children, with scores compared with age group‐matched population references.

Results

A total of 101 children (mean age 7.7 ± 2.9 years) and parent pairs were enrolled. The mean 16D score for 11 teenagers aged 12–15 years and mean 15D score for 101 parents was similar to reference populations; parental distress was borderline statistically worse (0.890 vs. 0.932, p = 0.013). The mean 17D score for 90 children aged 3–11 years was significantly higher (0.959 vs. 0.938) than in references (p < 0.01).

Conclusion

Children with a suspected severe peanut or tree nut allergy had a comparable health‐related quality of life to the reference population. Distress among their parents seemed to be increased, warranting more focus on parental counselling.