bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Policy Context for Gender Equality Reforms in Education in Central Asia
Authors: Durrani Naureen , Kataeva Zumrad , Kuzhabekova Aliya 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
This chapter conducts a comparative analysis of gender equality policies across the five Central Asian countries, focusing on gender equality in education and other spheres by synthesising insights from academic and grey literature. The chapter begins by outlining the historical policy landscape, examining how Soviet gender equality policies impacted women in Muslim Central Asia. It then analyses how the intricate interplay of the Soviet legacy, globalisation, neoliberalism, and nationalist discourses influence gender equality policies and identities. Subsequently, it explores post-independencegender equality frameworks and policies, considering key actors, international gender equality commitments, and policy structures within each Central Asian nation. Lastly, the chapter examines gender social norms viewed as the primary obstacle hindering the effectiveness of gender equality policies and endeavours in the region.
Who Are the Persistently out of Education and Jobless? Identifying the Socio-Demographic Factors Affecting NEET Women in Kazakhstan
Authors: Alimkhanova Dinara 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
This chapter presents a descriptive analysis of the main factors that increase the likelihood of women becoming NEET in Kazakhstan, based on secondary data from the Labour Force Survey covering the years 2012 to 2022. In Kazakhstan, the NEET rate for women has been twice as high compared to men. Every tenth young woman aged 15–28 years is neither engaged in employment nor educational activities. Possessing vocational education, being a young mother, living with an extended number of family members and residing in a rural area are key factors that raise the likelihood of a woman becoming a NEET.
Exploring the Experiences of Doctoral Student Mothers: A Comparative Study of Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan
Authors: Tabaeva Almira , Durrani Naureen 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
This study addresses the research gap on doctoral student mothers (DSMs) in Central Asia by examining the experiences of 15 DSMs in Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan as they navigate multiple roles. Drawing on Butler’s theory of gender and O’Reilly’s maternal theory, qualitative online interviews reveal common challenges in balancing motherhood, spousal duties, academic pursuits, and kelin (a bride or a daughter-in-law at husband’s parental home) roles, leading to feelings of guilt and inadequacy. Gender norms, lack of support, financial constraints, and negative perceptions from supervisors hinder DSMs’ academic progress, highlighting the importance of extended study timelines, supportive supervisors, and understanding institutions. Coping strategies, including support from family and peers, and self-motivation, are crucial in addressing the mental health impact of these challenges. Contrasts in experiences between Kazakhstani and Uzbekistani DSMs are evident, with Uzbekistani DSMs facing greater pressure as kelins, limited spousal support and mobility challenges to field sites, and encountering more institutional biases compared to their Kazakhstani counterparts. The study advocates for broader implications to promote equitable opportunities for DSMs in the region.
Understanding Barriers and Supports for Women’s Progression in STEM in Kazakhstan
Authors: Almukhambetova Ainur 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Based on the theoretical taxonomy of supports and barriers and Social Cognitive Career theory, this chapter contributes to the existing literature on STEM women’s pathways by qualitatively examining environmental supports and barriers that girls and women experience in all developmental stages, from childhood to professional life. The overarching purpose of this chapter is to synthesize and summarize the multidimensional barriers that affect, impede, or prevent girls and women from choosing STEM educational/career trajectories and the supports that facilitate their advancement and retention in STEM career trajectories across three developmental stages: childhood, adolescence (high school and university study), and adulthood (professional life). A core finding from this study is that women are strongly dependent on external social agents, such as parents, teachers, peers, employers, and spouses, in all developmental stages, who can play a dual role, either supporting the girls’ and young women’s interest in STEM and providing mentorship or discouraging them from being engaged with STEM.
Mediation of Investment Disputes Under the ICSID Mediation Rules: An Overview
Authors: Titi Catharine 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
The criticisms that have been voiced against investment arbitration have led to a growing interest in alternative means of dispute settlement, especially mediation. In 2022, as part of an overhaul of its Rules and Regulations, the International Centre for Settlement of Investment Disputes (ICSID) adopted a set of mediation rules, which are the first institutional mediation rules developed specifically for investment disputes. These rules are the focus of this chapter. The chapter reviews the context of the adoption of the ICSID Mediation Rules, before considering the reasons that may have encouraged ICSID to establish them, given that, even before 2022, the Centre provided a framework for the conciliation of investment disputes. The chapter further examines the mediation procedure under the ICSID Mediation Rules, from the initiation of proceedings to their conduct and termination, and considers remaining challenges, which it argues will need to be addressed, if mediation is to become a more mainstream means of settling investment disputes.
Socio-economic Factors and Cardiovascular Outcomes in Japan: Is Unrestricted Access to Healthcare Resources Enough?
Authors: Ozasa Neiko , Yoshida Toshiko 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Japan is considered a country with economic power, but in fact income inequality is increasing, and this is leading to health inequities. It is estimated that millions of people have limited access to healthcare due to lack of medical insurance. Many older heart failure patients, who are the terminal stage of cardiovascular diseases, require nursing care and support and are socially isolated, and it is necessary to improve the quality of disease management during their daily lives through the use of nursing care services as well as medical care. Even in telemedicine, which is expected to increase in the future, patients who are poor, elderly, and digitally illiterate may be left behind. In future Japanese healthcare, it is necessary to create a system to address the social determinants of health (SDOH) that patients are facing.
Peripheral Artery Disease in Regions with Limited Socioeconomic Resources
Authors: Matsushita Kunihiro , Salameh Maya Jean , Allison Matthew 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Lower extremity peripheral artery disease (PAD) represents a significant public health problem, with its prevalence and association with cardiovascular morbidity and mortality as well as limb complications, resulting in reduced quality of life in affected individuals. Despite its burden and impact, PAD is underdiagnosed and undertreated compared to coronary artery disease and stroke, likely due to a general lack of awareness by the public and practitioners. In particular, the impact of PAD in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) has been largely overlooked and is of particular concern given the increased burden of cardiovascular disease observed in LMICs in recent years. The aging of the global population, along with urbanization, industrialization, and increased prevalence of risk factors such as obesity, diabetes, and smoking have all contributed to the increasing burden of PAD in LMICs. This is of particular concern in settings where resources are limited and where early detection of PAD is crucial to implementing preventative interventions aimed at control of vascular risk factors, with the ultimate goal of improving cardiovascular and limb outcomes of this high-risk population. This chapter summarizes epidemiology, representative diagnostic tests, and major therapeutic challenges of PAD, with a special focus on resource-limited settings.
Postoperatives steifes Kniegelenk nach Knieprothese
Authors: Neunteufel Elena , Hirschmann Michael T. , Mengis Natalie , Avram George , Ammann Elias 
Published: January 2025

Zusammenfassung
Etwa ein Drittel der Patienten berichtet nach einer Knieprothesenoperation über anhaltende oder wiederkehrende Schmerzen und/oder Unzufriedenheit mit dem Ergebnis. Die Beschwerden sind klinisch äußerst komplex und variieren stark von Patient zu Patient. Eine fundierte diagnostische Abklärung erfordert die Expertise eines auf Revisions-Knieendoprothetik spezialisierten Orthopäden. Eine Verbesserung der Beschwerden ist nur möglich, wenn die Ursachen eindeutig identifiziert werden – unabhängig davon, ob eine konservative oder operative Behandlung gewählt wird. Dieser Artikel dient dazu, den Bruderholz-Algorithmus zur systematischen Abklärung von Patienten mit Schmerzen und Bewegungseinschränkungen nach einer Knieprothesenoperation vorzustellen. Das Schema umfasst eine strukturierte Diagnostik, die Ursachenanalyse sowie mögliche konservative oder operative Therapieansätze, um eine gezielte und effektive Behandlung zu gewährleisten.
Liver and pancreatic fat fractions as predictors of disease severity in acute pancreatitis: an MRI IDEAL-IQ study
Authors: Panc Kemal , Gundogdu Hasan , Sekmen Sumeyye , Basaran Mustafa , Gurun Enes 
Published: January 2025

Abstract

Purpose
Metabolic dysfunction–associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) and non-alcoholic fatty pancreatic disease (NAFPD) are metabolic diseases with rising incidence. Fatty infiltration may lead to dysfunction of the liver and pancreatic tissues. This study aims to quantify liver and pancreatic fat fractions and examine their correlation with disease severity in acute pancreatitis patients.

Methods
The severity of acute pancreatitis was assessed using the revised Atlanta classification (RAC), computed tomography severity index (CTSI), and modified CTSI (mCTSI). Proton density fat fraction (PDFF) levels of the liver and pancreas were measured via IDEAL MRI. Patients were categorized into biliary and non-biliary pancreatitis groups. Correlations between PDFF levels and the RAC, CTSI, and mCTSI scores were analyzed.

Results
A total of 127 patients were included, with MASLD present in 40.9% and NAFPD in 30%. Liver PDFF values were significantly higher in non-biliary pancreatitis (p = 0.040). Patients with MASLD exhibited higher CTSI and mCTSI scores (p = 0.009, p = 0.033, respectively). No significant differences were observed in severity scales between patients with and without NAFPD. Liver PDFF was positively correlated with CTSI and mCTSI scores in biliary pancreatitis. ROC analysis identified a liver PDFF > 3.9% (p = 0.002) and pancreatic corpus PDFF > 12.1% (0.028) as diagnostic markers for severe pancreatitis. In addition, a liver PDFF < 4.5% (p = 0.042) was an indicator for biliary pancreatitis.

Conclusion
MASLD is associated with increased severity in acute pancreatitis. IDEAL MRI-derived PDFF levels of the liver and pancreas show potential in predicting severe acute pancreatitis and distinguishing between biliary and non-biliary etiologies.
Taxus tree-ring chronologies from southern England reveal western European hydroclimate changes over the past three centuries
Authors: Bebchuk Tatiana , Moir Andy K. , Arosio Tito , Kirdyanov Alexander V. , Torbenson Max C. A. , Krusic Paul J. , Hindson Toby R. , Howard Heidi , Buchwal Agata , Norman Charles A. P. , Büntgen Ulf 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Heatwaves and summer droughts across Europe are likely to intensify under anthropogenic global warming thereby affecting ecological and societal systems. To place modern trends and extremes in the context of past natural variability, annually resolved and absolutely dated climate reconstructions are needed. Here, we present a network of 153 yew (Taxus baccata L.) tree-ring width (TRW) series from 22 sites in southern England that cover the past 310 years. Significant positive correlations were found between TRW chronologies and both April–July precipitation totals (r > 0.7) and July drought indices (r > 0.59) back to 1901 CE (p < 0.05). We used a suite of residual and standard TRW chronologies to reconstruct interannual to multi-decadal spring–summer precipitation and mid-summer drought variability over western Europe, respectively. Our yew hydroclimate reconstructions capture the majority of reported summer droughts and pluvials back to 1710 CE. Clusters of severe drought spells occurred in the second half of the 18th and mid-twentieth century. Our study suggests that the frequency and intensity of recent hydroclimate extremes over western Europe are likely still within the range of past natural variability.
Measuring the effectiveness and efficiency of simulation optimization metaheuristic algorithms
Authors: Thengvall Benjamin G. , Hall Shane N. , Deskevich Michael P. 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Metaheuristic algorithms have proven capable as general-purpose algorithms for solving simulation optimization problems. Researchers and practitioners often compare different metaheuristic algorithms by examining one or more measures that are derived through empirical analysis. This paper presents a single measure that can be used to empirically compare different metaheuristic algorithms for optimization problems. This measure incorporates both the effectiveness and efficiency of the metaheuristic algorithm, which is especially important in simulation optimization applications because the number of simulation runs available to the analyst (i.e., the run budget) can vary significantly with each simulation study. Therefore, the trade-off between the effectiveness and efficiency of a metaheuristic algorithm must be examined. This single measure is especially useful for multi-objective optimization problems; however, determining this measure is non-trivial for two or more objective functions. Additional details for calculating this measure for multi-objective optimization problems are provided as well as a procedure for comparing two or more metaheuristic algorithms. Finally, computational results are presented and analyzed to compare the performance of metaheuristic algorithms using knapsack problems, pure binary integer programs, traveling salesman problems, and the average results obtained across a diverse set of optimization problems that include simulation and multi-objective optimization problems.
Handling data drift in deep learning-based quality monitoring: evaluating calibration methods using the example of friction stir welding
Authors: Bauer Johannes C. , Trattnig Stephan , Vieltorf Fabian , Daub Rüdiger 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Deep learning-based classification models show high potential for automating optical quality monitoring tasks. However, their performance strongly depends on the availability of comprehensive training datasets. If changes in the manufacturing process or the environment lead to defect patterns not represented by the training data, also called data drift, a model’s performance can significantly decrease. Unfortunately, assessing the reliability of model predictions usually requires high manual labeling efforts to generate annotated test data. Therefore, this study investigates the potential of intrinsic confidence calibration approaches (i.e., last-layer dropout, correctness ranking loss, and weight-averaged sharpness-aware minimization (WASAM)) for automatically detecting false model predictions based on these confidence scores. This task is also called model failure prediction and highly depends on meaningful confidence estimates. First, the data drift robustness of these calibration methods combined with three different model architectures is evaluated. Two datasets from the friction stir welding domain containing realistic forms of data drift are introduced for this benchmark. Afterward, the methods’ impact on model failure prediction performance is assessed. Findings confirm the positive influence of well-calibrated models on model failure prediction tasks, highlighting the need to look beyond classification accuracy during model selection. Moreover, transformer-based models and the WASAM technique were found to improve robustness to data drift, regarding the classification performance as well as obtaining useful confidence estimates.
Evaluation of fungal-induced structural changes in arsenic- and antimony-contaminated mine drainage ochreous sediments using radioanalytical techniques
Authors: Goneková Zuzana , Miglierini Marcel , Dekan Július , Cesnek Martin , Urík Martin , Bujdoš Marek , Matúš Peter 
Published: January 2025

AbstractBiotransformation of ochres, a material crucial in immobilizing toxic elements, such as arsenic and antimony, found in mine effluents is investigated by Mössbauer spectrometry. Incubation of ochreous sediments was performed with the fungus Aspergillus niger. Neutron activation analysis determined the elemental composition. The findings demonstrate a redistribution of iron phases, which may contribute to the release of trace elements. This work introduces a novel approach to studying microbial interactions with ochres using these complementary techniques, providing insight into the environmental impact of fungal-induced transformations in contaminated mine sediments.
The Asymptotic Distribution of the Scaled Remainder for Pseudo Golden Ratio Expansions of a Continuous Random Variable
Authors: Herbst Ira W. , Møller Jesper , Svane Anne Marie 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Let

$$X=\sum _{k=1}^\infty X_k \beta ^{-k}$$

X
=

∑

k
=
1

∞

X
k

β

-
k

be the (greedy) base-

$$\beta $$

β

expansion of a continuous random variable X on the unit interval where

$$\beta $$

β

is the positive solution to

$$\beta ^n = 1 + \beta + \cdots + \beta ^{n-1}$$

β
n

=
1
+
β
+
⋯
+

β

n
-
1

for an integer

$$n\geqslant 2$$

n
⩾
2

(i.e.,

$$\beta $$

β

is a generalization of the golden mean corresponding to

$$n=2$$

n
=
2

). We study the asymptotic distribution and convergence rate of the scaled remainder

$$\sum _{k=1}^\infty X_{m+k} \beta ^{-k}$$

∑

k
=
1

∞

X

m
+
k

β

-
k

when m tends to infinity.
Amphibian cellular immune response to chytridiomycosis at metamorphic climax
Authors: Humphries Josephine E. , Hicks Allan , Lanctôt Chantal , McCallum Hamish , Newell David , Grogan Laura F. 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
The fungal disease chytridiomycosis (caused by Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis [Bd]) is a primary contributor to amphibian declines. The frog metamorphic stages, characterised by extensive physiological reorganisation and energy expenditure, have heightened susceptibility to Bd. However, little is known about how these metamorphic stages respond immunologically to Bd infection. In this study, we examined Bd infection and the cellular immune response of Mixophyes fleayi at Gosner stages 40, 42 and 45, using blood smears and skin and liver histology. Although proportional differences were observed, the impact of Bd exposure appeared negligible prior to Gosner stage 45 (onset of morbidity), with no significant differences observed in absolute leukocyte counts for blood or liver samples between control and Bd-exposed groups at Gosner stages 40 and 42. Animals exhibiting clinical signs at Gosner stage 45 demonstrated significant elevation in liver leukocyte counts, blood neutrophil and monocyte counts and neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratios. These findings are reminiscent of the amplified inflammatory response characteristic of immunopathology in clinically infected amphibians. Interestingly, a subset of exposed animals that had apparently cleared infections at Gosner stage 45 had similar blood leukocyte counts but reduced liver leukocyte counts compared to naïve controls. This could be a consequence of prior cellular consumption during pathogen removal or effective immune regulation via anti-inflammatory protective feedback mechanisms. We recommend targeted gene expression analyses (e.g. immunomodulatory cytokines) to establish the mechanisms responsible for the varied immune expression and infection outcomes across metamorphosis.
Mapping Progress in Workplace Protections: A Study of Global LGBTQI + Workplace Antidiscrimination Legislation in 2016 and 2023
Authors: Weistroffer Ross L. , Raub Amy , Sprague Aleta , Heymann Jody 
Published: January 2025

Abstract

Introduction
Despite global commitments to advance economic inclusion for all, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and intersex (LGBTQI +) workers around the world continue to face workplace discrimination based on their sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, and sex characteristics (SOGIESC). Developing a detailed global understanding of national laws addressing SOGIESC-based employment discrimination is a critical step towards making progress in these commitments.

Methods
In this study, we systematically analyzed how detailed measures of legal prohibitions of SOGIESC-based employment discrimination across hiring, pay, promotions, access to training, and terminations changed from 2016 to 2023. Additionally, we examined measures that support implementation and enforcement, as well as exceptions to protections. We also assessed differences in protections between regions as classified by the World Bank using Pearson’s Chi-squared tests.

Results
We found that 71 countries prohibited at least some form of workplace discrimination based on sexual orientation, 41 countries did so based on gender identity, 18 did so based on gender expression, and 14 did so based on sex characteristics.

Conclusions
Notable legal gaps remained in prohibition specificity, nationwide coverage, and enforcement mechanisms. Protections are also undermined by exemptions for faith-based institutions found in 4 countries. While progress in protections is sizable and steady, inequities persist across regions.

Policy Implications
These findings offer actionable insights regarding the strengths and shortcomings of current national laws and can act as the foundation for further legal progress in protecting LGBTQI + people at work.
Influence of plasma exosomes from women living with HIV Stratified by HAND on monocyte subpopulations from healthy women without HIV
Authors: Collazo Bryan Jael , Ortiz-Valentín Lorivette , Negrón-Rodríguez Cristhian G. , Medina-Colón Juan Carlos , Cantres-Rosario Yisel M. , Rodríguez Elaine , Wojna Valerie , Gerena Yamil 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
The role of plasma exosomes from people living with HIV (PLWH) with HAND in the phenotypic profile of uninfected monocytes remains unknown. We hypothesized that these exosomes influence the CD14/CD16 phenotypical profile of uninfected monocytes in a time-dependent manner. Exosomes were collected via ultracentrifugation from the plasma of women living with HIV (WLWH) and healthy controls stratified according to their cognition into normal cognition (NC) or symptomatic neurocognitive impairment (SNI) groups. Monocyte subsets were identified via flow cytometry by using anti-CD14 and anti-CD16 fluorescent antibodies. Exosome uptake and changes in the percentages of monocyte subpopulations were analyzed from 1 to 24 h. The following results were obtained. (1) The uptake of HIV-negative exosomes by total uninfected monocytes was observed at 24 h, whereas the uptake of HIV-positive exosomes was observed at an earlier time point at 6 h. (2) HIV-positive exosomes significantly decreased the percentage of classical monocytes and increased intermediate and nonclassical monocytes at 24 h. (3) The uptake of NC exosomes was observed at an early time point at 6 h compared with SNI in all of the monocyte subsets. (4) Higher percentages of monocyte subsets were observed when cells were exposed to NC exosomes at 1 h, 6 h, or 24 h than when monocytes were exposed to exosomes from SNI patients. Our findings may help to identify new targets and molecular mechanisms that are involved in the pathogenesis of HAND.