bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Beyond Climate Targets: Exploring When and How Female Directors Influence Corporate Decarbonization Transparency
Authors: García‐Sánchez Isabel‐María , Núñez‐Torrado Miriam , Aibar‐Guzmán Cristina , Aibar‐Guzmán Beatriz
Published: February 2025

The 2015 Paris Agreement established an international commitment to limit global warming to 1.5°C, which requires climate neutrality through deep cuts in greenhouse gas emissions. In pursuit of this goal, companies worldwide are adopting decarbonization strategies that are increasingly aligned with principles of transparency and accountability. This study examines a sample of 6575 large global companies to analyze the impact of board gender diversity on climate‐related disclosures. Our findings show that the presence of at least one female director increases corporate transparency regarding decarbonization targets, timelines, strategic levers, and performance metrics. Thus, this study challenges the critical mass theory by demonstrating that even a single female director adds unique value in promoting sustainability transparency. Furthermore, we show that contextual factors—such as industry environmental sensitivity, regional regulatory frameworks and climate‐related business opportunities—moderate the influence of female directors on decarbonization transparency. These findings advance corporate governance and sustainability research by providing a multidimensional understanding of how board gender diversity drives transparency, particularly in sustainability‐sensitive industries and regulatory environments. On a practical level, the findings highlight the strategic value of gender‐diverse boards for managers, investors, and policymakers seeking to enhance corporate accountability and align with global sustainability goals. By underscoring the transformative role of female directors in promoting transparent and responsible corporate practices, this research contributes actionable insights to the transition to a net‐zero economy.
Cytomorphology and clinicopathologic correlation of TFE3‐rearranged renal cell carcinoma
Authors: Hou Tieying , Lin Xiaoqi
Published: February 2025

Background

TFE3‐rearranged renal cell carcinoma (TFE3‐rRCC) harbors gene fusions involving TFE3 with one of many different partner genes. Because of their diverse morphologies, the differential diagnosis is broad and challenging. Publications focusing on the cytomorphology of TFE3‐rRCC are sparse.

Methods

Fifteen cytology cases of TFE3‐rRCC from 12 patients were retrieved, comprising seven primary kidney cases and eight metastatic cases.

Results

Cytology smears showed tumor cells with moderate granular or vacuolated cytoplasm, arranged in diverse patterns, such as three‐dimensional clusters, nested/sheeted formations, isolated cells, papillary, and tubular/acinar structures. The tumor cells exhibited enlarged eccentric, round or oval nuclei, possibly situated peripherally, with small to prominent nucleoli and irregular nuclear membranes. Macrophages, hyalinized globules, or necrosis were occasionally seen. Core and cell block histology often showed papillae with surface‐oriented nuclei. Tumor cells were also arranged in nested, sheeted, and tubular patterns. Tumor cells were immunoreactive to TFE3 (100%), AMACR (100%), PAX8 (88%), and CD10 (83%) and showed focal staining for CA9 (64%), CK7 (20%), and CD117 (25%). TFE3 rearrangement was confirmed in 13 of 15 cases through fluorescence in situ hybridization or RNA fusion next‐generation sequencing testing. Metastasis was observed in nine of 12 patients (80%), with retroperitoneal lymph nodes being the most common site, followed by distant lymph nodes, lung, brain, adrenal gland, and bone. Six patients (50%) underwent nephrectomy alone, two patients (17%) received chemotherapy alone, and four patients (33%) received combined nephrectomy and chemotherapy.

Conclusions

Timely recognition of TFE3‐rRCC’s distinct cytomorphologic and histomorphologic features is essential for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.
Tech‐Enabled Inclusion: Leveraging Social Media to Empower Neurodivergent Employees in the Workplace
Authors: Khan Maria , Wen (Carys) Chan Xi , Yan Hongmin , Shang Sudong
Published: February 2025

Neurodivergent employees (NDEs) are characterized by different neurological profiles, including but not limited to autism, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, and Tourette syndrome, face underrepresentation, and undervaluation at work. This review employs the technology affordance lens and a diversity and inclusion model to explore how social media (SM) can facilitate the inclusion of NDEs. We propose a technology‐inclusion framework as a foundation for future model testing by delineating the key variables and relationships at play. A narrative review is adopted to discuss our findings derived from a comprehensive search of relevant literature, which yielded 41 journal articles and five book chapters. We employed thematic analysis, facilitated by ATLAS.ti's artificial intelligence coding function, to critically review and analyze the shortlisted articles through a rigorous, iterative process. Our framework highlights three pathways (NDE‐related, leader‐related, and peer‐related) that discuss the combination of SM affordances enhancing and inhibiting the inclusion of NDEs. In particular, SM affordances can build inclusion by enhancing self‐efficacy and a sense of empowerment, facilitating accessible communication, and connection. However, privacy and personal safety concerns explain why SM affordances sometimes undermine inclusion. Likewise, pathways related to supervisory support, and increased interactions and support from peers highlight the role of leaders and peers in translating SM affordances to NDEs' inclusion. We emphasize that leveraging SM applications, understanding NDEs' specific needs, and fostering an inclusive culture starting from organizational leadership can significantly contribute to promoting inclusion and support for NDEs in the workplace.
Role of miRNAs in Apoptosis Pathways of Immune Cells in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
Authors: Azizan Amin , Farhadi Elham , Faezi Seyedeh Tahereh , Jamshidi Ahmadreza , Alikhani Majid , Mahmoudi Mahdi
Published: February 2025

Background

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic autoimmune disease characterized by dysregulated immune responses and multi‐organ involvement. Dysregulation of apoptosis, a key process for maintaining immune homeostasis, plays a critical role in the pathogenesis of SLE. MicroRNAs (miRNAs), small non‐coding RNAs that regulate gene expression, have emerged as important modulators of apoptosis in immune cells, influencing the balance between immune tolerance and autoimmunity.

Objectives

This review aims to comprehensively summarize recent advancements in understanding the roles of miRNAs in apoptosis regulation within immune cells in SLE, highlighting their therapeutic potential for restoring immune balance and mitigating disease progression.

Results

Aberrant expression of specific miRNAs contributes to the dysregulation of apoptosis in SLE immune cells. Pro‐apoptotic miRNAs, such as miR‐125b and miR‐150, are often downregulated, leading to enhanced survival of autoreactive immune cells. Conversely, anti‐apoptotic miRNAs, including miR‐21, are upregulated, further disrupting the delicate balance of immune cell apoptosis. Dual‐function miRNAs, such as miR‐155, exhibit context‐dependent roles based on cellular environments and target gene interactions. This dysregulation promotes the persistence of autoreactive immune cells and the development of autoimmunity.

Conclusions

miRNAs play critical roles in modulating apoptosis pathways, making them promising therapeutic targets for SLE. Restoring the balance of pro‐apoptotic and anti‐apoptotic miRNAs could help reinstate immune tolerance and reduce tissue damage. Future research should focus on elucidating miRNA targetomes, improving delivery systems, and addressing off‐target effects to fully harness their therapeutic potential.
Integrated Metabolomics and Proteomics Analysis of the Myocardium in a Mouse Model of Acute Viral Myocarditis
Authors: Xue Yimin , Zhang Jiuyun , Chen Mingguang , Fan Qiaolian , Huang Tingfeng , Ke Jun , Chen Feng
Published: February 2025

Background

Acute viral myocarditis (AVMC) is a common inflammatory disease affecting the myocardium and is often accompanied by severe metabolic disturbances. The molecular mechanisms underlying this disease are complex and not yet fully understood.

Methods and Results

Coxsackievirus B3 (CVB3)‐induced AVMC mouse models were established. By integrating ultra‐high‐performance liquid chromatography‐tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC‐MS/MS)‐based metabolomics and data‐independent acquisition (DIA)‐based proteomics, we aimed to investigate the global influence of CVB3 infection on the myocardial metabolome and proteome in mice. Based on the criterion of OPLS‐DA VIP > 1.0 and p value < 0.05, a total of 149 differential metabolites (DMs) were identified, including 64 upregulated and 85 downregulated metabolites. Bioinformatics analysis revealed that these DMs were mostly enriched in Global and overview maps (Metabolic pathways), Energy metabolism (Sulfur metabolism and Nitrogen metabolism), Amino acid metabolism (Taurine and hypotaurine metabolism, Lysine degradation, and Arginine and proline metabolism), and Carbohydrate metabolism (Propanoate metabolism). Differential analysis also identified 1385 differential proteins (DPs) between the two groups (|Fold Change| >1.5 and p value < 0.05), including 1092 upregulated and 293 downregulated proteins. Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment analyses of DPs indicated that metabolism‐related pathways were significant components of the AVMC process. Next, we mined many DPs engaged in the above metabolic pathways through an integrated analysis of KEGG pathway‐based metabolomics and proteomics data.

Conclusions

Our integrated metabolomics and proteomics analysis revealed characteristic alterations in metabolites and proteins in the myocardium of AVMC, as well as the associations between them. This not only extends the existing understanding of the molecular basis of the pathogenesis and progression of AVMC but also suggests new directions for its treatment.
Bermudagrass quality affected by irrigation level, fertilization, a soil surfactant, and trinexapac‐ethyl
Authors: Sportelli Mino , Serena Matteo , Velasco‐Cruz Ciro , Leinauer Bernd
Published: February 2025

Limited information is available on the effect of fertility and chemical management under drought conditions. A study investigated the effects of the plant growth regulator trinexapac‐ethyl (TE; applied at 1.6 L ha−1 month−1) and the soil surfactant Revolution® (applied at 20 L ha−1 month−1) on Princess 77 bermudagrass (Cynodon dactylon L. Pers). The experiment included two reference evapotranspiration replacement levels (ETo) of 45% and 75% combined with a 2 × 2 factorial of N (23 and 45 kg N ha−1 month−1 and Fe (0 and 2 kg Fe ha−1 month−1) fertility levels. At 75% ETo, turfgrass quality remained above acceptable levels (6.7), with the lowest quality observed in control plots receiving low N without iron. Normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) was higher at 75% ETo, but plots receiving TE with high N and no iron and irrigated at 45% ETo had NDVI values similar to plots irrigated at 75% ETo. Under drought conditions (45% ETo), 14 out of 16 treatment combinations maintained acceptable turfgrass quality, except for the control with low N and iron (5.7) and Revolution® with high N but no iron (5.4). Overall, the results suggest that TE plus/or ad soil surfactants may improve turfgrass quality and NDVI under drought conditions.
Difference‐in‐Differences With a Misclassified Treatment
Authors: Negi Akanksha , Negi Digvijay S.
Published: February 2025

This paper studies identification and estimation of the average treatment effect of a latent treated subpopulation in difference‐in‐difference designs when the observed treatment is differentially (or endogenously) mismeasured for the truth. Common examples include misreporting and mistargeting. We propose a two‐step estimator that corrects for the empirically common phenomenon of one‐sided misclassification in the treatment status. The solution uses a single exclusion restriction embedded in a partial observability probit to point identify the latent parameter. We demonstrate the method by revisiting two large‐scale national programs in India: one where pension benefits are underreported and second where the program is mistargeted.
Fast In Vivo Two‐Photon Fluorescence Imaging via Lateral and Axial Resolution Restoration With Self‐Supervised Learning
Authors: Pan Zhengyuan , Lei Man , Liao Hongen , Gu Bobo
Published: February 2025

Two‐photon fluorescence (TPF) imaging opens a new avenue to achieve high resolution at extended penetration depths. However, it is difficult for conventional TPF imaging systems to simultaneously achieve high resolution and speed. In this work, we develop an innovative deep learning framework of Lateral and Axial Resolution Restoration (LARR) to break the contradiction between imaging resolution and speed. LARR employs a self‐supervised training scheme to computationally restore the sparsely sampled TPF images to resolution isotropic images by 4‐fold axial and 16‐fold lateral resolution enhancement. The simulation studies and experimental results demonstrate the excellent performance of LARR to preserve fine structural features with improved signal‐to‐noise ratio and structure similarity index. Moreover, the TPF imaging system with the LARR is able to achieve 60‐fold improved imaging speed and comparable resolution as compared with the conventional TPF system. The outstanding performance makes LARR a potential tool for fast TPF imaging with high resolution.
Sleep‐enhancing activity of fermented pea protein hydrolysate with enhanced GABA content by Lactobacillus brevisSYLB 0016 fermentation
Authors: Kim Hyeon Deok , Suh Hyung Joo , Chung Seok Hyun , Byun Jongwon , Yoo Yesol , Lee Hyowon
Published: February 2025

BACKGROUND

Sleep is essential for overall health and wellbeing. This study investigated the sleep‐promoting effects of fermented pea protein hydrolysate (PPF) with increased gamma‐aminobutyric acid (GABA) content produced by Lactobacillus brevis SYLB 0016. The effects of PPF on sleep duration and structure were assessed in pentobarbital‐induced ICR mice and Sprague Dawley (SD) rats using electroencephalogram (EEG) analysis.

RESULTS

Hydrolysis of pea protein with Alcalase, Protana Prime, and Protana UBoost increased the amino nitrogen content, degree of hydrolysis and glutamate content to 160.51 mmol L−1. Fermentation by Lactobacillus brevis SYLB 0016 increased the GABA content from 3.16 to 90.35 mmol L−1. PPF significantly increased sleep duration (56.3 min) compared to the normal control (30.6 min) in pentobarbital‐induced sleep tests. Non‐rapid eye movement (NREM) sleep time increased with a significant rise in δ‐waves activity following administration of 150 mg kg−1 of PPF. In caffeine‐induced insomnia, both low‐ and high‐dose PPF significantly increased sleep duration. Three weeks of oral PPF administration elevated GABAA and GABAB receptor expression, with GABAA receptor protein levels showing a significant change. Co‐administration of flumazenil with PPF reduced sleep time, indicating the involvement of the GABAA receptor benzodiazepine site in PPF's sleep‐enhancing effects.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, PPF with enhanced GABA content improves NREM sleep by increasing δ waves activity. As a hypoallergenic compound, PPF holds potential as a supplement to ameliorate sleep disorders. © 2025 Society of Chemical Industry.
Underwater Zooplankton Enhancement Light Array (UZELA): A technology solution to enhance zooplankton abundance and coral feeding in bleached and non‐bleached corals
Authors: Grottoli Andréa G. , Dixon Shannon L. , Hulver Ann Marie , Bardin Claire E. , Lewis Claire J. , Suchocki Christopher R. ,   R3D Consortium, Toonen Robert J.
Published: February 2025

Coral resilience to heat stress is higher in corals that eat more zooplankton. In addition, coral feeding on zooplankton increases as zooplankton concentrations increase. To leverage the advantage that zooplankton feeding has on coral resilience, we developed the Underwater Zooplankton Enhancement Light Array (UZELA). UZELA is a patented autonomous, submersible, and programmable underwater light that is deployable for 6 months on a single battery. With 1 h of operation per night, it locally concentrates naturally occurring zooplankton, providing corals with greater feeding opportunities. Field tests show that UZELA increases local zooplankton concentrations by sevenfold compared to adjacent non‐UZELA controls and coral feeding rates by 10 to 50‐fold in both healthy and bleached Montipora capitata and Porites compressa corals compared to conspecifics without UZELA. With the continuing decline of coral reefs, technologies that can enhance coral feeding could play a critical role in coral resilience for coral in restoration nurseries and on the reef.
Lp$L^p$‐boundedness properties for some harmonic analysis operators defined by resolvents for a Laplacian with drift in Euclidean spaces
Authors: Betancor Jorge J. , Fariña Juan C. , Rodríguez‐Mesa Lourdes
Published: February 2025

We consider the Laplacian with drift in defined by where . This operator is self‐adjoint with respect to the locally doubling measure . We analyze the boundedness on , , of maximal operators, Littlewood–Paley functions, and variation and oscillation operators defined by the family , where and .
Simultaneous approximation by neural network operators with applications to Voronovskaja formulas
Authors: Cantarini Marco , Costarelli Danilo
Published: February 2025

In this paper, we considered the problem of the simultaneous approximation of a function and its derivatives by means of the well‐known neural network (NN) operators activated by the sigmoidal function. Other than a uniform convergence theorem for the derivatives of NN operators, we also provide a quantitative estimate for the order of approximation based on the modulus of continuity of the approximated derivative. Furthermore, a qualitative and quantitative Voronovskaja‐type formula is established, which provides information about the high order of approximation that can be achieved by NN operators. To prove the above theorems, several auxiliary results involving sigmoidal functions have been established. At the end of the paper, noteworthy examples have been discussed in detail.
A Parallel Algorithm of Stochastic Model Predictive Control by Partial Minimization
Authors: Fukao Masaki , Ohtsuka Toshiyuki
Published: February 2025

This article proposes a parallel algorithm of stochastic model predictive control (SMPC) for linear discrete‐time systems. The proposed algorithm uses multiple threads to solve respective optimization problems at different time steps in parallel, without inter‐thread communication during each optimization. Each thread sequentially solves a stochastic optimal control problem (SOCP) for optimizing closed‐loop performance against future disturbances and a partial minimization problem for optimizing a subset of decision variables of the SOCP. The partial minimization problem computes the control input according to the last measured state to satisfy chance constraints and can be solved much faster than the original SOCP. Consequently, the proposed algorithm can reduce the implementable minimum sampling period compared to the original SMPC. A numerical example of controlling room temperature showed that the proposed algorithm achieves control performance almost identical to that of closed‐loop SMPC, which optimizes closed‐loop performance. However, the implementable minimum sampling period of the proposed algorithm is much shorter than that of the closed‐loop SMPC, even with parallelization overhead.
Effect of basalt fiber optimal length/number/coupling agent on the properties of rubber composites
Authors: Yu Benhui , Ren Jianbin , Wang Chuansheng
Published: February 2025

The influence of different types of short fibers, fiber content, and coupling agents on the properties of short fiber‐reinforced rubber‐based composite materials was studied. The results of physical and mechanical property tests showed that the optimal combination was a fiber length of 9 mm, fiber content of 3 phr, and coupling agent KH560. Contact angle tests revealed that under the same conditions of fiber length, the addition of an adhesive significantly increased the contact angle with water compared to the BF powder without adhesive modification, indicating a significant improvement in the surface hydrophobicity of BF after adding the adhesive. The surface pretreatment of BF was significantly improved, with KH560 and sodium stearate showing the best wetting properties. XPS tests indicated that BF9 treated with sodium stearate exhibited higher tensile strength and overall performance compared to untreated BF9, and it had the highest comprehensive performance among BF9 treated with KH550, KH560, and Si69. EDS results showed that more coupling agents were attached to the surface of fibers treated with both KH560 and KH550, resulting in stronger adhesion to the rubber matrix. Surface tension results indicated that sodium stearate provided the best uniform coating on BF in this experiment. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) results indicated the grafting of functional groups such as methyl (CH3) onto BF after the secondary modification.

Highlights

BF9 treated with C17H35COONa had the highest comprehensive performance.

Grafting of functional groups (CH3) were onto BF after the secondary modification.

Sodium stearate provided the best uniform coating on BF.

The optimal experimental combination was length9 mm, 3 phr, coupling agent KH560.

Adhesive increased the contact angle with water compared to that of untreated.
Dreidimensionale Bilder aus Satellitendaten: Terrestrische Einschlagkrater als digitales Trompe‐l‘oeil
Authors: Gottwald Manfred
Published: February 2025

Die Aufnahmen von Erdbeobachtungssatelliten wirken durchgehend seltsam flach. Doch ein 2000 Jahre altes Verfahren kann ihnen dreidimensionales Leben einhauchen. Mit Hilfe von digitalem Trompe‐l'oeil, wie in diesem Artikel beschrieben, kann jeder selbst topografische Karten mit Schattenrelief erstellen.
Impact of airflow‐assisted spraying technology on droplet drift: a solution for reducing pesticide drift under multidirectional strong wind conditions
Authors: Sun Wenfeng , Guo Yuefu , Wang Hao , Sun Yongli , Xu Jiehao , Zhang Kaige , Jin Hongtao
Published: February 2025

BACKGROUND

In agricultural production, pesticide application is often influenced by natural wind, leading to pesticide drift. This reduces the effectiveness of pest and disease control on target crops and poses risks of pesticide damage to nontarget crops, which can result in serious environmental and food contamination issues. This study addresses the issue of droplet drift in complex farmland environments by developing a simulation model that couples auxiliary airflow with multidirectional wind. The model analyzes the complex movement trajectories and dynamic characteristics of droplets within the coupled flow field, identifies the key factors influencing drift under the effect of auxiliary airflow, and adjusts spraying parameters based on different wind directions and speeds to reduce droplet drift.

RESULTS

Numerical simulations were conducted using the optimized auxiliary airflow parameters in multidirectional wind. The results demonstrated that for winds of 3.3 ~ 7.9 m s−1, the optimized auxiliary airflow significantly reduced both the drift rate and amount of droplets: compared to conventional spraying, the drift rate and amount decreased by 50.6% and 84.9%, respectively; compared to conventional airflow‐assisted spraying, they decreased by 11.54% and 49.8%, respectively. Moreover, bench tests validated the simulation model with an error rate of 7.7 ± 0.2%.

CONCLUSION

Through simulation analysis and adjustment of auxiliary airflow parameters, this study provides a comprehensive understanding of droplet drift behavior under various wind directions and speeds in complex environments. The findings show that adjusting airflow parameters can effectively address pesticide drift in multidirectional wind, reducing pesticide deposition in nontarget areas and minimizing environmental pollution. © 2025 Society of Chemical Industry.
Spontaneous Undifferentiated Pleomorphic Sarcoma With Mast Cell Infiltration in a Sprague–Dawley Rat: A Case Report
Authors: Choi Joo‐Hee , Sung Soo‐Eun , Sung Minkyoung , Kang Kyung‐Ku , Park Sun Hee , Kim Duyeol , Lee Sijoon
Published: February 2025

Undifferentiated pleomorphic sarcomas (UPSs) are tumours of mesenchymal origin typically seen in soft tissues and histologically characterized by pleomorphic tumour cell and multinucleated giant cell (MGC) infiltration. Here, we report UPS in a 23‐month‐old Sprague–Dawley rat, notable for the absence of MGC infiltration and the presence of mast cells. The tumour was located in the left axillary region and was assessed using haematoxylin and eosin, Masson's trichrome, and toluidine blue staining, along with immunohistochemistry. Neoplastic cells showed pleomorphism and storiform arrangement, with no MGCs, but with significant mast cell infiltration. Vimentin positivity confirmed the mesenchymal origin. The results in this case indicate a potential role of mast cells in UPS pathology and emphasize the need for further studies on their role in tumour progression.
Introduction: African Linguistics After #RhodesMustFall
Authors: Gibson Hannah , Lück Jacqueline , Riedel Kristina , Namboodiripad Savithry
Published: February 2025

This chapter provides a background to the study and the broader context in which the survey was conducted. It introduces the motivation behind the work, which was to examine views related to African languages and decolonisation and transformation. It provides a short overview of the #RhodesMustFall movement in South Africa and highlights parallels with a number of related social justice movements such as #RhodesMustFallOxford and Black Lives Matter. The chapter ends with an overview of the book as a whole, foregrounding a number of the key themes that emerge.
In Vivo Discrimination of Iodine and Tantalum-Based Liquid Embolics After Intracranial or Spinal Embolization Using Photon-Counting Detector CT
Authors: Maurer Christoph Johannes , Berlis Ansgar , Stangl Franz Josef , Behrens Lars
Published: February 2025

Purpose

In vitro differentiation of iodine and tantalum-based liquid embolics post-embolization can be achieved using spectral computed tomography. This study evaluates the in vivo ability of clinical photon-counting computed tomography (PCD-CT) to distinguish these embolic agents in patients undergoing endovascular treatments for cerebrovascular and spinal pathologies.

Methods

This retrospective study included 25 patients treated between April 2021 and March 2024, who underwent PCD-CT imaging post-embolization for intracranial arteriovenous malformations (AVM), dural arteriovenous fistulas (dAVF), spinal tumors, or middle meningeal artery (MMA) embolization for chronic subdural hematomas (cSDH). Imaging analysis involved iterative reconstruction, using conventional images (CI), iodine maps (IM), and virtual non-contrast (VNC) series. Two blinded neuroradiologists assessed the suppression quality of the embolic agents on a Likert scale.

Results

Of the 25 patients, 22 underwent intracranial and 3 spinal embolizations. The differentiation between iodine and tantalum-based embolics achieved 92% accuracy for reader 1 and 88% for reader 2, with a Cohen’s kappa coefficient of 0.92 indicating high inter-reader agreement. Iodine-based agents were moderately suppressed, whereas tantalum-based agents exhibited superior suppression. Errors arose from mistaking suppressed platinum coils for tantalum-based embolics. Hemorrhage detection accuracy was high, with a Cohen’s kappa of 0.92.

Conclusions

PCD-CT effectively differentiates between iodine- and tantalum-based embolics in vivo, demonstrating high diagnostic accuracy and inter-reader reliability. This capability facilitates improved post-procedural assessment and may enhance the management of endovascularly treated patients by reducing imaging artifacts and aiding in hemorrhage detection.
Second order $$L_p$$ estimates for subsolutions of fully nonlinear equations
Authors: Dong Hongjie , Kitano Shuhei
Published: February 2025

We obtain new

$$L_p$$

L
p

estimates for subsolutions to fully nonlinear equations. Based on our

$$L_p$$

L
p

estimates, we further study several topics such as the third and fourth order derivative estimates for concave fully nonlinear equations, critical exponents of

$$L_p$$

L
p

estimates and maximum principles, and the existence and uniqueness of solutions to fully nonlinear equations on the torus with free terms in the

$$L_p$$

L
p

spaces or in the space of Radon measures.
On the equivalence between an Onofri-type inequality by Del Pino–Dolbeault and the sharp logarithmic Moser–Trudinger inequality
Authors: Borgia Natalino , Cingolani Silvia , Mancini Gabriele
Published: February 2025

In this paper we consider the N-dimensional Euclidean Onofri inequality proved by del Pino and Dolbeault (Int Math Res Not IMRN 15:3600–3611, 2013) for smooth compactly supported functions in

$$\mathbb {R}^N$$

R

N

,

$$N \ge 2$$

N
≥
2

. We extend the inequality to a suitable weighted Sobolev space, although no clear connection with standard Sobolev spaces on

$$\mathbb {S}^N$$

S

N

through stereographic projection is present, except for the planar case. Moreover, in any dimension

$$N \ge 2$$

N
≥
2

, we show that the Euclidean Onofri inequality is equivalent to the logarithmic Moser–Trudinger inequality with sharp constant proved by Carleson and Chang (Bull Sci Math 110(2):113–127, 1986) for balls in

$$\mathbb {R}^N$$

R

N

.
Is Self-Discrimination Disrespectful?
Authors: Bengtson Andreas , Pedersen Viki Møller Lyngby
Published: February 2025

Victims of oppressive (e.g., sexist, racist or ableist) structures sometimes internalize the unjust norms that prevail in society. This can cause these victims to develop preferences or make decisions that seem bad for them. Focusing on such cases, we ask: is self-discrimination disrespectful? We show that some of the most sophisticated respect theories fail to provide any clear guidance. Specifically, we show that the widely recognized view that respect has two dimensions—an interest dimension and an autonomy dimension—delivers completely opposite verdicts depending on how these two dimensions (and the relation between them) are specified. A main takeaway point is that we need to distinguish between at least four different respect-based views. Whether self-discrimination caused by internalized oppression is disrespectful depends on which view one supports.
Change of perspective in transformation processes: A case study of online teaching targeting underserved adult students
Authors: Ress Susanne , Njobati Frederick , Scheunpflug Annette
Published: February 2025

This article draws on a case study of an international master’s degree programme in educational quality and leadership for senior professionals in sub-Saharan Africa. It reflects the experience of adapting a blended learning approach to a purely online format in response to pandemic-induced lockdowns and travel bans in 2020–2021. Based on this case study, the authors propose a model for a change of perspective in transformation processes targeting underserved adult students which combines insights from complex problem-solving with culturally responsive teaching (CRT). The article highlights the vitality of intentional changes of perspective reified through systematic communication with relevant stakeholders, networks and (new) partners. The authors demonstrate that managing change has instructional, operational and emotional components. Their article contributes to the scholarship on lifelong learning by offering in-depth reflection on a rapid transformation process addressing reflexivity, resources and ethics of care as key dimensions.
A Population-Based Study of Bariatric Surgery Trends in Australia: Variations Reflect Continuing Inequities in Access to Surgery
Authors: Goubar Thomas , Goubar Christopher , Fenton-Lee Douglas , Stefanidis Aneta , Macdonald Peter S. , Rushworth R. Louise
Published: February 2025

Background

Obesity is increasingly prevalent and associated with higher morbidity and mortality. Bariatric surgery, particularly sleeve gastrectomy, provides durable weight loss and improves obesity-related conditions like type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Despite its benefits, significant concerns regarding inequities in access to bariatric surgery persist. This study aims to evaluate recent trends in bariatric surgery rates and to investigate patterns of access to bariatric surgery.

Methods

A population-based study of age-adjusted bariatric procedure rates in adults in NSW, Australia, was conducted over the financial years 2013/14 to 2021/22. Trends in age-adjusted procedure rates were assessed by demographics and healthcare settings.

Results

In 2021/22, 179.6 bariatric procedures per 100,000 population were performed, an 89.7% increase since 2013/14 (p < 0.001). Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy, the most common procedure, increased by 94.1% to 112.6/100,000/year (p < 0.001). Females had 3.6 times higher rates than males (232.3/100,000/year vs 64.9/100,000/year). The greatest increases occurred in younger patients (125.9% in the 18–24 age group; 142.4% in the 25–34 age group, p < 0.001). Private hospital rates were 15.6 times higher than public (132.2/100,000/year vs 8.5/100,000/year) and rose 92.3% (p < 0.001), whilst public hospital rates declined by 17.9% (p = NS). Patients from regional areas had the highest rates (175.7/100,000/year) and largest increase (169.8%; 89.4/100,000/year to 241.8/100,000/year, p < 0.001).

Conclusions

Bariatric surgery rates continue to increase, particularly among females, despite similar obesity prevalence between sexes. Most surgery is conducted in the private sector, suggesting differential access based on financial circumstances. Rates are highest in younger people, although obesity-related comorbidities increase with age. Regional patients undergo surgery at higher rates than rural patients despite greater obesity prevalence with increasing rurality. Efforts to address these disparities are essential to improve equitable access to obesity treatments.
Shear-wave velocity structure from the near-surface to mid-crust beneath the southern Korean Peninsula using P-wave polarization analysis
Authors: Kim Kyungmin , Chang Sung-Joon
Published: February 2025

The near-surface velocity structure provides critical information for seismic hazard assessment, ground motion simulation, and site amplification studies. However, accurate estimation typically requires costly core sampling from boreholes and/or seismic exploration. As an alternative, we estimated near-surface to mid-crustal shear-wave velocities in the southern Korean Peninsula using P-wave polarization analysis, which utilizes only the incident angles of direct P waves from earthquakes. We extended the polarization analysis by employing several different frequency bands to estimate shear-wave velocities from the surface down to the mid-crust. P waveforms were bandpass-filtered with three different frequency bands (0.05–0.3 Hz, 0.5–2 Hz, and 3–10 Hz) to determine shear-wave velocities at different depths. The P-wave polarization results show a strong correlation between geological features and velocity distributions across the frequency bands. The P-wave polarization results for the frequency bands of 0.05–0.3 Hz, 0.5–2 Hz, and 3–10 Hz indicate velocity distributions of 3.50 ± 0.35 km/s, 3.00 ± 0.69 km/s, and 2.26 ± 0.69 km/s, respectively. Comparison with velocity structures estimated from Rayleigh-wave ellipticity and site surveys reveals that these values from frequency bands of 0.05–0.3 Hz, 0.5–2 Hz, and 3–10 Hz correspond to average velocities from the surface to depths of 3–16 km, 0.1–3 km, and 5–100 m, respectively. The polarization analysis demonstrates superior performance in estimating near-surface shear-wave velocity compared to the Rayleigh-wave ellipticity method.
Strategic control of excess tellurium to achieve high figure-of-merit in Te-rich Bi0.5Sb1.5Te3
Authors: Bhatt Ranu , Kumar Rishikesh , Bhatt Pramod , Patro Pankaj , Bhattacharya Shovit , Navaneethan Mani , Samanta Soumen , Singh Ajay
Published: February 2025

Increasing the Te content in stoichiometric Bi0.5Sb1.5Te3 facilitates effective control over the anti-site defects and nanostructure; however, arresting excess Te in the host matrix is challenging. Herein, we report the success of a saturation-annealing treatment in a vacuum, followed by air-quenching as a promising approach for synthesizing high figure-of-merit (zT) Bi0.5Sb1.5Te3+xTe (x = 0, 2, 5 and 10 wt%) materials. A remarkably high-power factor (α

2

σ ~ 6 mW at 300 K) is achieved in p-type Bi0.5Sb1.5Te3 + 5 wt% Te composition due to high carrier concentration (n) and good carrier mobility (µ). Microstructural analysis revealed the formation of densely interconnected polycrystalline grains featuring fine grain boundaries, planar/point defects, and strain field domains, contributing towards wide-length scale phonon scattering. The cumulative effect of drastically reduced thermal conductivity (κ ~ 0.8 W/m-K at 300 K), and enhanced power factor resulted in a record zT value ~ 2.2 at 300 K in Bi0.5Sb1.5Te3 + 5 wt% Te, with an average zT value up to 1.35 in temperatures ranging from 303 to 573 K. The COMSOL simulations predict a maximum conversion efficiency (η

max
) of ~ 15%, at a temperature gradient (∆T) of 270 K, for a single-leg thermoelectric generator (TEG) developed using this material.
Puzzling Regional Factors of Divorce: the Case of Postcommunist Czechia and Slovakia
Authors: Garajová Alžbeta , Bleha Branislav
Published: February 2025

The factors influencing divorce remain a relatively under-researched area within (geo)demographic and sociological studies. This study extends the scope of inquiry by conducting a comprehensive examination of the divorce process. We demonstrate the possible way to discover (regional) factors of family dissolution using geostatistical methods, in addition to a demographical approach. In terms of the research background, a comparative perspective is essential. Here, we bring quite a pioneering view. For decades, the two countries involved, Czechia and Slovakia, shared the same legal environment within one state (Czechoslovakia) with a socialist regime. At the same time, many demographic, social, cultural, and religious dissimilarities existed between them. Through a multidimensional analysis, we aim to identify the influence of different groups of divorce factors at the level of local administrative units (LAU 1) during two transformation stages, specifically in three time series: at the beginning of the postsocialist transformation, at the turn of the millennium in 2001, and in 2011. We bring new empirical evidence and underline the role of geographical methods when discovering the time and space patterns of divorce. The most important finding is that regional differences are mostly induced by factors associated with religion, reproductive behavior, economic activity, education, and marital behavior. However, the explainability of regional factors after two decades of societal transformation is lower.
Barriers to dynamic capabilities in non-leading HEIs in the digital era
Authors: da Silva Wellington Aleixo , Ratten Vanessa , Cassel Guilherme Luiz , Pereira Giancarlo Medeiros , Fossatti Paulo , Vendrametto Oduvaldo
Published: February 2025

This study investigates the barriers that hinder the non-leading Brazilian higher education institutions (HEIs) in repositioning within the digital landscape based on dynamic capabilities. In-depth semi-structured interviews with top managers at six non-leading HEIs show that the main barriers include uncertainty about the traditional HEI future in the digital scenario, lack of strategic tools to reposition the HEIs, lack of knowledge about the cost-benefit of an institution’s digitization, lack of knowledge on how to implement changes, and lack of information on if an HEI should (or not) meet all the new stakeholder needs. These barriers prevent HEIs from successfully adapting to the digital era. Methodologies and tools are required to guide strategic decisions, perform digitization’s cost-benefit analysis, and implement changes that meet stakeholders’ evolving demands. By overcoming these barriers, HEIs can effectively implement dynamic capabilities, transforming the challenges of the digital age into opportunities for growth and innovation.
The rigidity of filtered colimits of n-cluster tilting subcategories
Authors: Fazelpour Ziba , Nasr-Isfahani Alireza
Published: February 2025

Let Λ be an artin algebra and

$\mathcal{M}$

be an n-cluster tilting subcategory of Λ-mod with

$n \geq 2$

. From the viewpoint of higher homological algebra, a question that naturally arose in Ebrahimi and Nasr-Isfahani (The completion of d-abelian categories. J. Algebra645 (2024), 143–163) is when

$\mathcal{M}$

induces an n-cluster tilting subcategory of Λ-Mod. In this article, we answer this question and explore its connection to Iyama’s question on the finiteness of n-cluster tilting subcategories of Λ-mod. In fact, our theorem reformulates Iyama’s question in terms of the vanishing of Ext and highlights its relation with the rigidity of filtered colimits of

$\mathcal{M}$

. Also, we show that

${\rm Add}(\mathcal{M})$

is an n-cluster tilting subcategory of Λ-Mod if and only if

${\rm Add}(\mathcal{M})$

is a maximal n-rigid subcategory of Λ-Mod if and only if

$\lbrace X\in \Lambda-{\rm Mod}~|~ {\rm Ext}^i_{\Lambda}(\mathcal{M},X)=0 ~~~ {\rm for ~all}~ 0 \lt i \lt n \rbrace \subseteq {\rm Add}(\mathcal{M})$

if and only if

$\mathcal{M}$

is of finite type if and only if

${\rm Ext}_{\Lambda}^1({\underrightarrow{\lim}}\mathcal{M}, {\underrightarrow{\lim}}\mathcal{M})=0$

. Moreover, we present several equivalent conditions for Iyama’s question which shows the relation of Iyama’s question with different subjects in representation theory such as purity and covering theory.
New record of Calcinus morgani (Crustacea: Decapoda: Anomura: Diogenidae) from the Andaman Islands, and a key to Calcinus species in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands
Authors: Aravind Navyashree , Thiruchitrambalam Ganesh
Published: February 2025

The diogenid hermit crab, Calcinus morgani Rahayu & Forest, 1999, is reported from the Andaman Islands in the eastern Indian Ocean. It was previously recorded as Calcinus gaimardii (H. Milne Edwards, 1848) from the Nicobar Islands, south of the Andaman Islands, in 1865 about 160 years ago, but there were no additional records of the species in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The diagnosis of C. morgani is provided on the basis of the present specimens for helping the identification. A key to species of the genus Calcinus known from the Andaman and Nicobar Islands is also provided.
Health Policy
Authors: Schmidtz David
Published: February 2025

In clinical trials involving experimental subjects who are also patients, what is supposed to become of the imperative to focus on the patient’s best interest? A second set of policy questions concerns patients who want to die. Are there limits to the imperative to let patients choose for themselves? Is commodification a threat to autonomy? When, if ever, do costs and benefits become decisively important? Can we know what to count as a cost-effective preparation for the next pandemic? When we put procedures in place to protect against abuse, is there any way to prevent such measures from becoming bureaucratic obstacles to accomplishing anything at all?
Abortion Restrictions and Formative Autonomy
Authors: Raskoff Sarah Zoe
Published: February 2025

It is often morally important that you have a choice between two options in the sense that each option is available to you and you are not coerced into choosing one or the other. Even when you have a choice, though, the presence of time constraints and other noncoercive influences can prevent you from taking the time you need to make up your mind and really choose for yourself. How are we to understand this latter phenomenon? In this essay, I argue that while choosing for yourself seems, at first glance, to be an exercise in discovering your preferences, this is not the whole story. At least sometimes, choosing for yourself instead involves creating your preferences—and, in so doing, choosing what kind of person and valuer to be—through the exercise of what I call formative autonomy. I then explore some objections to this account and some implications for public health policy and clinical ethics. Throughout, I draw primarily on examples that involve choosing whether to continue or terminate a pregnancy and the regulations governing such choices.
Public Health as If People Mattered
Authors: Cannon Michael F.
Published: February 2025

This essay offers a framework for analyzing whether government may justifiably intervene to contain the spread of disease. Nonconsensual transmission of dangerous pathogens is an inherently violent act. This framework therefore justifies government public health activities for the same reasons and only to the same extent as other government activities. Government public health interventions are legitimate only to the extent they minimize the amount of violence in society. Violence-minimization is a more egalitarian and welfare-enhancing rule than, for example, a rule prescribing that government public health activities should minimize loss of life.
Structural Hobbling: Regressive Harm, Diffuse Responsibility, and Structural Injustice
Authors: Hall Lauren
Published: February 2025

The past five years have seen a dramatic increase in scholars working to supplement or challenge accounts of structural injustice. Almost without exception, scholars in this area assume that the move from personal responsibility to political or public responsibility will represent a net gain in justice, at least in modern liberal regimes. In this essay, I challenge this assumption and introduce the concept of “structural hobbling” as a parallel cause of injustice, but one whose origins derive from neutral state activities rather than from intentional bad faith or diffuse private action (as in structural injustice). Using health-care regulations as a lens, I offer two narratives of individuals navigating health-care regulations that demonstrate how seemingly neutral regulatory decisions create regressive hobbling effects. Structural hobbling challenges structural-injustice theorists to take more seriously the complex and often subtle ways in which apparently benevolent state activity can create downstream injustice, while adding complexity to existing narratives around public responsibility and what it demands.
Lernberatung als Erfolgsfaktor
Authors: Roddewig Marion
Published: February 2025

Zusammenfassung: Mit dem Pflegeberufegesetz (PflBG) hat sich die Rolle der Praxisanleitenden deutlich verändert: Die Lernberatung ist zu einer zentralen Aufgabe geworden. Der Artikel bietet konkrete Anleitungen und praxiserprobte Methoden, um Lernberatung gezielt in den Berufsalltag zu integrieren und den Lernprozess der Auszubildenden bestmöglich zu begleiten.
Erfolgreiches simulationsbasiertes Lernen
Authors: Kraus Luana , Lorenz Linda , Bensch Sandra
Published: February 2025

Zusammenfassung: Das Pflegeberufegesetz hat explosionsartig zur Einführung simulationsbasierten Lernens in der Pflegeausbildung mit uneinheitlicher Implementierung dieser Lernform geführt. Die Studie leistet ein empiriegestütztes Konzept zur Schulentwicklung für erfolgreiches simulationsbasiertes Lernen in der generalistischen Pflegeausbildung.