bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Non‐lethal detection of Eubothrium crassum (Cestoda) in farmed Atlantic salmon, Salmo salar, using anal swabs and real‐time PCR
Authors: Hansen Haakon , Spilsberg Bjørn , Sevatdal Sigmund , Sakariassen Trine , Hahn Christoph , Mohammad Saima Nasrin , Karlsbakk Egil
Published: January 2024

Detection of intestinal parasites in fish typically requires autopsy, resulting in the sacrifice of the fish. Here, we describe a non‐lethal method for detecting the tapeworm Eubothrium crassum in fish using anal swabs and real‐time PCR detection. Two assays were developed to detect cytochrome oxidase I (COI) mitochondrial DNA and 18S ribosomal DNA sequences of E. crassum, respectively. The assays were tested on swab samples from confirmed pathogen free Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar L.) and on samples from farmed Atlantic salmon, where the presence and intensity of parasites had been established through autopsy. The COI assay was shown to be specific to E. crassum, while the 18S assay also amplified the closely related E. salvelini, a species infecting Arctic charr (Salvelinus alpinus L.) in freshwater. The COI assay detected E. crassum in all field samples regardless of parasite load while the 18S assay failed to detect the parasite in two samples. The results thus demonstrates that this non‐lethal approach can effectively detect E. crassum and can be a valuable tool in assessing the prevalence of infection in farmed salmon, aiding in treatment decisions and evaluating treatment effectiveness.
Facing the heat: A descriptive review of the literature on family and community resilience amidst wildfires and climate change
Authors: Ferreira Vitória , Sotero Luciana , Relvas Ana Paula
Published: January 2024

Family and community resilience in the contexts of natural disasters and climate change have earned a place of prominence in the research field. This article provides a descriptive review of the literature published between 1997 and 2023 examining family and community resilience in the context of wildfires, climate change, and sustainability. Ninety‐two articles were included and analyzed, with three research questions addressed. Results show family and community resilience as essential to the adaptation process to extreme natural events. Family and community experiences appear to be linked with changes in beliefs, behaviors, and priorities. Findings point to potential connections with sustainability, adaptation and mitigation efforts, and the need for communities to coexist with fire in forest ecosystems. Some gaps in literature are pointed out, including scarcity of data from diverse geographic locations, looking at the family unit perspective, and spanning the entire trajectory of disaster and recovery process.
Remodeling of facial soft tissue induced by simultaneous application of HIFES and synchronized radiofrequency provides nonsurgical lift of facial soft tissues
Authors: Kinney Brian M. , Boyd Charles M.
Published: January 2024

Background

The application of radiofrequency (RF) and HIFES on the body provides improvement in skeletal muscle tissue, reduction in fatty tissue, reorganization of connective tissue, and skin texture improvement. However, overall facial appearance relies on both skin and underlying structures, specifically muscles and connective tissue which have to be treated as one unit to achieve proper care while preserving fatty layers that define youth facial appearance.

Aims

The aim of this study is to find whether the effect of novel RF + HIFES is safe and can induce the lifting of soft tissue and overall improvement in facial appearance.

Methods

In this study, 21 subjects were enrolled. The therapy was administered in four 20‐min treatments on the forehead and cheeks. Photographs were evaluated by a Global Aesthetic Improvement Score (GAIS) and linear measurements of facial tissue lifting at 1‐ and 3‐month follow‐ups. Volumetric changes in the cheek area were investigated as well. The patients' satisfaction, safety, and comfort were documented throughout the study.

Results

The data indicated improvement in overall facial appearance, and 23% of average lifting was found in brows (p = 3.14 × 10−12) and cheeks (p = 6.00 × 10−15). The assessment of digital photographs showed an improvement in 100% of patients at 3‐month follow‐up. The treatments were safe, accompanied by high therapy comfort and subject satisfaction of 98%.

Conclusions

The treatment by simultaneous RF and HIFES technology produces significant changes to the overall facial appearance, characterized by the lifting of facial tissues.
Examining nurses' humanistic behaviour ability and empathy levels in clinical practice: A descriptive and exploratory study
Authors: Ozdemir Cevriye , Kaplan Ali
Published: January 2024

Background

It is critical for nurses to provide healthcare services to healthy/sick individuals with a humanistic approach and with empathy.

Aims

This research aimed to determine nurses' humanistic behaviour ability, empathy levels and related factors in clinical practice.

Design

A descriptive cross‐sectional and exploratory study.

Methods

Probability sampling method was used, and 337 nurses working in two public hospitals were included in the study. Data was collected using the Humanistic Practice Ability of Nursing Scale and the Empathy Level Determination Scale. Structural equation model analysis and descriptive statistics were used to evaluate the hypothesised model. This study adhered to the STROBE checklist for reporting.

Results

Nurses' humanistic ability and empathy level in nursing practices were found to be above average. Both the ability to act humanely in nursing practices and their empathy levels were found to be significantly higher in nurses who were married and had children. A significant relationship was found between empathy levels and humanistic behaviours. Accordingly, nurses' empathy levels positively affected their humanistic care behaviours, and the model established between the two concepts was found to be statistically appropriate.

Conclusions

Nurses' empathy levels positively affect their ability to act humanistically. The result of the model established between the two concepts also supports this. Care strategies should be developed that consider factors that will improve empathetic and humanistic behaviours in nurses and maximise individualised care practices.

Implications for the Profession

Increasing the awareness of nurses about the factors affecting humanistic behaviours and empathic attitudes while caring for individuals in clinical practice, will contribute to improving the quality of nursing care.
A Unique Variance in Future Motivation for Observed Active Behaviors on Positive Class Participation Beyond the Effect of Current Motivation
Authors: Nishimura Takuma
Published: January 2024

Based on self‐determination theory, this study investigates a unique variance in the effect of aspirations (future motivation) on the observed active behaviors on positive class participation, while controlling for academic motivation (current motivation). In Study 1, 364 fifth‐ and sixth‐grade elementary school students participated in a survey to confirm the validity of the Aspirations Index for Children. Confirmatory factor analysis on the theoretically hypothesized model showed an acceptable fit for the data. In Study 2, 297 fifth‐ and sixth‐grade elementary school students participated in this survey, assessing their aspirations and academic motivation. Furthermore, their homeroom teachers evaluated the students’ academic behaviors on positive class participation. The results of multilevel structural equation modeling, which controls for the effect of current motivation, indicated the unique variance in aspirations (future motivation): intrinsic aspirations were positively associated with active behaviors on positive class participation, whereas extrinsic aspirations showed a negative relation. This study concludes that future motivation, specifically intrinsic aspirations, facilitates active learning behaviors beyond the effect of current motivation.
Demographic history and genomic signatures of selection in a widespread vertebrate ectotherm
Authors: Judson Jessica M. , Hoekstra Luke A. , Janzen Fredric J.
Published: January 2024

Environmental conditions vary greatly across large geographic ranges, and yet certain species inhabit entire continents. In such species, genomic sequencing can inform our understanding of colonization history and the impact of selection on the genome as populations experience diverse local environments. As ectothermic vertebrates are among the most vulnerable to environmental change, it is critical to understand the contributions of local adaptation to population survival. Widespread ectotherms offer an opportunity to explore how species can successfully inhabit such differing environments and how future climatic shifts will impact species' survival. In this study, we investigated the widespread painted turtle (Chrysemys picta) to assess population genomic structure, demographic history, and genomic signatures of selection in the western extent of the range. We found support for a substantial role of serial founder effects in shaping population genomic structure: demographic analysis and runs of homozygosity were consistent with bottlenecks of increasing severity from eastern to western populations during and following the Last Glacial Maximum, and edge populations were more strongly diverged and had less genetic diversity than those from the centre of the range. We also detected outlier loci, but allelic patterns in many loci could be explained by either genetic surfing or selection. While range expansion complicates the identification of loci under selection, we provide candidates for future study of local adaptation in a long‐lived, widespread ectotherm that faces an uncertain future as the global climate continues to rapidly change.
Reproductive isolation in a three‐way contact zone
Authors: Dean Laura L. , Whiting James R. , Jones Felicity C. , MacColl Andrew D. C.
Published: January 2024

Contact zones between divergent forms within a species provide insight into the role of gene flow in adaptation and speciation. Previous work has focused on contact zones involving only two divergent forms, but in nature, many more than two populations may overlap simultaneously and experience gene flow. Patterns of introgression in wild populations are, therefore, likely much more complicated than is often assumed. We begin to address this gap in current knowledge by investigating patterns of divergence and introgression across a complex natural contact zone. We use phenotypic and genomic data to confirm the existence of a three‐way contact zone among divergent freshwater resident, saltwater resident and saltwater migratory three‐spined stickleback (Gasterosteus aculeatus) on the island of North Uist, Scottish Western Isles. We find evidence for hybridization, mostly between saltwater resident and saltwater migratory forms. Despite hybridization, genomic analyses reveal pairwise islands of divergence between all forms that are maintained across the contact zone. Genomic cline analyses also provide evidence for selection and/or hybrid incompatibilities in divergent regions. Divergent genomic regions occur across multiple chromosomes and involve many known adaptive loci and several chromosomal inversions. We also identify distinct immune gene expression profiles between forms, but no evidence for transgressive expression in hybrids. Our results suggest that reproductive isolation is maintained in this three‐way contact zone, despite some hybridization, and that reduced recombination in chromosomal inversions may play an important role in maintaining this isolation.
Pinellia discolor: a new cryptic species distinguished from P. cordata in mainland China
Authors: Chen Mei‐Qian , Xu Ning , Man Jian‐Min , Luo Rui
Published: January 2024

Pinellia cordata (Araceae) is a perennial herb species distributed in China and Japan. Several studies have shown that there are two types of this species, and chromosome counts have shown irregular variation among populations. In this study, we investigated the morphological characteristics, established the chromosome number in root tips, reconstructed phylogenetic relationship based on whole chloroplast genomes, and elucidated biogeographic patterns based on data collected from the Chinese Virtual Herbarium (CVH) and the Plant Photo Bank of China (PPBC) for the two types of P. cordata, including type I (greenish leaf blade) and type II (colored leaf blade). We found stable significant differences in morphometric characteristics (color of the leaf blade abaxially, petiole, spathe and appendix) and the number of chromosomes. The results of the phylogenetic analysis showed that types I and II were located to different places in the evolutionary tree compared to the group. The distribution regions of these types of P. cordata were also slightly different in mainland China. These findings suggested that P. cordata should be divided into P. cordata (type I) and Pinellia discolor (type II, a cryptic species) and the latter is here described as a new species.
Multidisciplinary atopic dermatitis program: A novel approach to managing difficult‐to‐control atopic dermatitis patients
Authors: Tracy Alexis , Loop Lauren , Bhatti Safiyyah , Anterasian Christine , Kellogg Caitlyn , Smiley Kathryn , Wu Alyssa , Geng Bob , Eichenfield Lawrence
Published: January 2024

Background/Objectives

Disease improvement for difficult‐to‐control pediatric atopic dermatitis may be more challenging to achieve when directed by single specialties due to disjointed and conflicting dialogue with patients.

Methods

The Multidisciplinary Atopic Dermatitis Program (MADP) was developed through collaborations with the Rady Children's Hospital and UC San Diego Health Divisions of Dermatology, Allergy & Immunology and Clinical Pharmacy, to create team‐based evaluation and management of children and adolescents with atopic dermatitis (AD). The MADP allows concurrent, comprehensive evaluations by multiple specialists to develop treatment plans. The program includes extensive patient education to support shared decision making, incorporating patient and family's perspectives along with those of clinical experts into their care. Objective severity measures and patient reported outcome data were collected, along with assessment of patient and family satisfaction with the MADP.

Results

Data showed significant improvement in AD severity as assessed by providers, patients and families by the first follow‐up visit. BSA mean percentage decreased by up to 56% by the 7th visit, and pruritus (NRS), CLDQI and POEM mean scores decreased by more than 4 points, 12 points, and over 11 points, respectively. After management was initiated in the MADP, 72.73% of patients achieved an EASI 50 and 47.73% achieved an EASI 75 from a baseline mean of 21.7. Patients who continued in clinic beyond the second visit showed further clinically significant decreases in disease measures.

Conclusions

The multidisciplinary approach shows success in the treatment of difficult‐to‐control AD patients with improvements in clinician and patient reported outcome measures.
Evaluating the effect of strontium ranelate and photobiomodulation on cementogenic and osteogenic differentiation of buccal fat pad‐derived stem cells: An in vitro study
Authors: Mohaghegh S. , Fathi H. , Molaasadollah F. , Teimoori M. , Chiniforush N. , Taghipour N. , Shekarchi F. , Nokhbatolfoghahaei H.
Published: January 2024

This study aimed to analyze the impact of strontium ranelate (Str), photobiomodulation (PBM), or their combination of the proliferation, osteogenic differentiation, and cementogenic differentiation of buccal fat pad‐derived stem cells. BFPdSCs were exposed to one of the following interventions: (1) PBM (660 nm), (2) PBM (660 nm) + Str, (3) PBM (880 nm), (4) PBM (880 nm) + Str, (5) Str. All study groups had significantly higher osteogenic differentiation than the control group (p < 0.05), and no significant difference existed between the 660 and 808 nm groups (p = 0.97). Compared to the Str group, 660 nm and 880 nm group samples had significantly lower osteogenic differentiation (p < 0.0001), while other groups did not show a significant difference. Regarding cementogenic differentiation, the 660 nm group showed higher values than the 808 nm group (p < 0.01). Compared with the Str group, 660 nm, 660 nm + Str, and 808 nm + Str groups showed significantly higher gene expression (p < 0.05). In the case of osteogenic differentiation, although photobiomodulation alone had a lower inducing effect than strontium ranelate, combining 808 nm diode lasers and strontium ranelate may provide the best results. Moreover, using a 660 nm diode laser and exposing stem cells to strontium ranelate can be the most effective approach to induce cementogenic differentiation.
Characterisation of microcrystalline cellulose from waste green pea pod sheath and its sunn hemp fibre‐polyester composite: A step towards greener manufacturing
Authors: Alshahrani Hassan , Arun Prakash VR
Published: January 2024

In this study, a microcrystalline cellulosic biopolymer (MCB) made from Pisum Sativum (green pea) pod waste via a modified thermo‐chemical process, and Crotalaria juncea (sunn hemp) fibre was used to create environment‐friendly polyester composites. The main objective was to synthesise the MCB from domestic waste and characterize how the addition of hemp alters the strength of the polymeric composite. The MCB was synthesized using green pea pods. The sunn hemp fibres were used in mat form in this study. The composites were made using the hand layup method and post‐cured at 110°C for 2 h. The results showed that the addition of sunn hemp fibre and MCB increased the mechanical properties. Similarly, the highest observed fatigue life count for the composite designated PSC3 (2.0 vol.% MCB) was 30862 at 30% ultimate tensile stress. Similarly, the composite PSC3 had the maximum penetration resistance with an absorbed energy of 14.2 J. Moreover, the addition of silane‐treated cellulose and fibre provided an improved storage modulus of 6.8 GPa for the PSC3 composite, confirming the improved fibre‐matrix fibre interaction and increased toughness. The scanning electron microscope images revealed improved fibre‐matrix correlation. These eco‐friendly composites with better load‐bearing capabilities could be preferred in automated door panels, defence toolboxes, and home interior decoration applications.
Digital financial inclusion and corporate investment efficiency: Evidence from small‐ and medium‐sized enterprises in China
Authors: Ma Yong , Jiang Yiqing
Published: January 2024

This study investigates the influence of digital financial inclusion (DFI) on the investment efficiency of small‐ and medium‐sized enterprises (SMEs) in China. Employing a dataset of listed National Equities Exchange and Quotations firms over the period from 2011 to 2020, we find robust evidence that the development of DFI improves the investment efficiency of underinvested SMEs. However, no such effect is observed for overinvested SMEs. The mechanism analysis indicates that DFI can mitigate the underinvestment problem of SMEs by restraining their risk‐taking behaviors and easing their financial constraints. Furthermore, we find that the positive effect of DFI on underinvestment is more pronounced for SMEs with weaker financial statuses or in less competitive industries.
Investigating unemployment hysteresis in South Africa
Authors: Dadam Vincent , Viegi Nicola
Published: January 2024

This paper investigates hysteresis in South Africa's unemployment. First, we test the presence of hysteresis in unemployment using traditional stationarity tests and non‐linear transformation methods to identify two further characteristics of hysteresis, namely, remanence and selective memory. In the second part of the paper, we estimate a simple insider–outsider model using a Bayesian vector autoregression methodology to identify the shocks driving unemployment dynamics. The main finding is that mark‐up shocks and negative productivity shocks are the main drivers of unemployment, with demand shocks playing a secondary role. Nominal wages are not responsive to real shocks and are an important component of inflation. These results point to the difficulty of absorbing the current level of unemployment without a significant increase in the flexibility of goods and labour markets. At the same time, the evidence suggests that, if reforms are being implemented, demand policies can play a significant role in improving employment and growth, reversing the structural unemployment evident in the data.
Mindfulness research and applications in the context of neoliberalism: A narrative and critical review
Authors: Chachignon Philippine , Le Barbenchon Emmanuelle , Dany Lionel
Published: January 2024

This narrative and critical review outlines the implications of scientific production on Mindfulness and the widespread diffusion of the practice under neoliberal capitalism. This scientific, therapeutic and economic high‐value object is a fruitful research field in medical and social sciences. Since exiting the confines of mental and somatic health it has also flourished as a self‐care and self‐improvement technique. Drawing on a psychosocial perspective where Mindfulness is considered both a psychological and a social phenomenon, we explore the reasons why institutions and corporations have regularly considered Mindfulness as the universal panacea to address mental health, social and environmental problems, and how this contributed to transferring the consequences of structural and systemic issues from the State to the realms of individual management and responsibilization, and fostering social inequalities. We expose the role of Buddhist Modernism, psychology and social psychology into the consolidation of Mindfulness as a product of knowledge and a form of governmentality. The effects on Mindfulness users and researchers of a mainstream neoliberal psychological science, including social psychology, are discussed. Avenues for mindful resistance, such as theoretical and methodological perspectives for a critical social psychology of Mindfulness, are developed.
Developments in deep learning for change detection in remote sensing: A review
Authors: Kaur Gaganpreet , Afaq Yasir
Published: January 2024

Deep learning (DL) algorithms have become increasingly popular in recent years for remote sensing applications, particularly in the field of change detection. DL has proven to be successful in automatically identifying changes in satellite images with varying resolutions. The integration of DL with remote sensing has not only facilitated the identification of global and regional changes but has also been a valuable resource for the scientific community. Researchers have developed numerous approaches for change detection, and the proposed work provides a summary of the most recent ones. Additionally, it introduces the common DL techniques used for detecting changes in satellite photos. The meta‐analysis conducted in this article serves two purposes. Firstly, it tracks the evolution of change detection in DL investigations, highlighting the advancements made in this field. Secondly, it utilizes powerful DL‐based change detection algorithms to determine the best strategy for monitoring changes at different resolutions. Furthermore, the proposed work thoroughly analyzes the performance of several DL approaches used for change detection. It discusses the strengths and limitations of these approaches, providing insights into their effectiveness and areas for improvement. The article also discusses future directions for DL‐based change detection, emphasizing the need for further research and development in this area.
Risks from solar-powered groundwater irrigation
Authors: Balasubramanya Soumya , Garrick Dustin , Brozović Nicholas , Ringler Claudia , Zaveri Esha , Rodella Aude-Sophie , Buisson Marie-Charlotte , Schmitter Petra , Durga Neha , Kishore Avinash , Minh Thai Thi , Kafle Kashi , Stifel David , Balasubramanya Sahana , Chandra Ankit , Hope Lesley
Published: January 2024

Emissions reductions may not meet expectations, and groundwater use will likely increase
The reversible activation of norovirus by metal ions
Authors: Sherman Michael , Cox Faith , Smith Hong , Habib Mohamed H. , Karst Stephanie , Wobus Christiane E. , Smith Thomas J.
Published: January 2024

The highly mobile protruding domains on the calicivirus capsids are recognized by cell receptor(s) and antibodies. At neutral pH, they float ~15 Å above the shell but at low pH or in the presence of bile salts, they contract onto the surface. Concomitantly, changes within the P domain block antibody binding while enhancing receptor binding. While we previously demonstrated that metals also block antibody binding, it was unknown whether they might also cause similar conformational changes in the virion. Here, we present the near atomic cryo-electron microscopy structures of infectious murine norovirus (MNV) in the presence of calcium or magnesium ions. The metal ions reversibly induce the same P domain contraction as low pH and bile salts and act in a synergistic manner with the other stimuli. We propose that, unlike most other viruses, MNV facilely changes conformations as a unique means to escape immune surveillance as it moves through various tissues.
Diverse genetic contexts of HicA toxin domains propose a role in anti-phage defense
Authors: Gerdes Kenn
Published: January 2024

Prokaryotic organisms harbor a multitude of toxin–antitoxin (TA) systems, which have long puzzled scientists as “genes in search for a function.” Recent scientific advancements have shed light on the primary role of TAs as anti-phage defense mechanisms. To gain an overview of TAs it is important to analyze their genetic contexts that can give hints on function and guide future experimental inquiries. This article describes a thorough bioinformatics examination of genes encoding the HicA toxin domain, revealing its presence in no fewer than 14 unique genetic arrangements. Some configurations notably align with anti-phage activities, underscoring potential roles in microbial immunity. These insights robustly reinforce the hypothesis that HicA toxins are integral components of the prokaryotic anti-phage defense repertoire. The elucidation of these genetic contexts not only advances our understanding of TAs but also contributes to a paradigm shift in how we perceive their functionality within the microbial world.
Upper crustal seismic velocity structure of the Hayward fault zone, San Francisco Bay, California, USA: Results from the 2016 East Bay Seismic Experiment (EBSI-16)
Authors: Strayer Luther , Catchings Rufus , Chan Joanne , Goldman Mark , McEvilly Adrian , Suppe John
Published: January 2024

We developed Vp, Vs, Vp/Vs ratio, and Poisson’s ratio models of the uppermost crust (<4 km depth) from the eastern San Francisco (SF) Bay (California, USA) to near the Calaveras fault along a 15-km-long, linear profile. Upper crustal velocities are highly variable beneath, west, and well east of the Hayward fault. We observe eight notable features, from west to east: (1) Near San Francisco Bay, there is an ~2-km-wide structure with high Vp/Vs ratios (up to 5) and Poisson’s ratios (up to 0.48) extending from the surface to the base of our model, which we suggest the structure is a near-vertical fault that lies along a straight-line projection between the Silver Creek fault to the south and the Point Richmond fault to the north. The structure may be part of an ~90-km-long fault along the eastern SF Bay. (2) The western East Bay Plain, the lower lying area between the bay and the hills, includes up to 800 m of low-velocity sediments (Vp ~1600–3000 m/s, Vs ~500 m/s to ~1000 m/s), underlain by higher velocity basement rocks (Vp ~3000–5800 m/s; Vs ~1000–1500 m/s). (3) Between ~1 km and 3 km east of the Bay shoreline, sediments thin in a series of steps (likely faults) toward the Hayward fault. (4) Between ~3 km west and ~1 km east of the Hayward fault (at the East Chabot fault) at depths greater than 1 km, basement Vp (up to 6000 m/s) and Vs (up to 2800 m/s) are high, and Vp/Vs ratios (<2) and Poisson’s ratios (<0.3) are low, suggesting crystalline rocks. Furthermore, a near-vertical zone of low Vp/Vs ratios and Poisson’s ratios is between near-surface traces of the Hayward and East Chabot faults, likely corresponding to the San Leandro Gabbro of Ponce et al. (2003). (5) Eastward of the East Chabot fault in the upper 1.5 km, basement Vp (~3000 m/s to ~4200 m/s) and Vs (~1200–2000 m/s) are lower than those west of the fault. (6) In the eastern Hayward/Oakland Hills, there are zones of laterally varying, high- and low-velocity (Vp ~2500–3000 m/s) Jurassic–Cretaceous and Tertiary sediments in the shallow subsurface that likely extend much deeper than imaged. (7) Seismic energy that propagates westward from sources east of the Hayward fault (HF) appear weaker than energy that propagates eastward from sources west of the HF, suggesting that the HF acts as a partial barrier to shallow seismic energy propagation into the more populated eastern SF Bay area. (8) Unlike many fault zones, it appears that the active trace of the Hayward fault (in our study area) is not cored by a prominent, low-velocity zone relative to rocks to the east and west of the active trace. However, the active trace does mark a prominent change from relatively higher velocities to the west and lower velocities to the east.
Geometry, kinematics, and mechanics of the interaction between strike-slip and normal faults in active rifts: An example from the Quaternary-active Kane Springs Wash fault zone, Nevada, USA
Authors: Abdelhaleem Shaimaa , Taylor Wanda J. , Reid Andrew , Reed Nathan G.
Published: January 2024

The interactions among dip-slip and strike-slip faults are critical features in rift segmentation, including strain and slip transfer between faults of different rift segments. Here, we focused on the influence of factors such as fault and fracture geometries, kinematics, and local stress fields on the interaction and linkage of synchronous strike-slip and normal faults. Well-exposed faults along the tectonically active boundary between the central and northern Basin and Range provided for both reliable geometric data and consideration of rift segment development. We documented relative ages and distributions of Quaternary deposits, scarps, and geometries of three ~20–65-km-long Quaternary faults: the N-striking, normal Coyote Spring fault; the ENE-striking, left-lateral Kane Springs Wash fault; and the N-striking, normal Wildcat Wash fault.

The normal faults bend to accommodate slip-type differences across linkage zones, with the strike-slip fault and local processes influencing interactions. Influenced by the local stress field of the Kane Springs Wash fault, the Coyote Spring fault bends SE as it approaches and links to the Kane Springs Wash fault. Influenced by the off-fault or process-zone fractures of the Kane Springs Wash fault, the Wildcat Wash fault bends NE and links with the Kane Springs Wash fault. The Kane Springs Wash fault continues beyond the normal fault terminations, suggesting slip transfer between them via the Kane Springs Wash fault. These relations and the ages of offset units suggest that activity on the faults was approximately synchronous despite slip-type differences. Consequently, in slip transfer, the local strike-slip stress environment and off-fault fractures influenced the geometry of the normal fault terminations; the strike-slip fault formed a boundary to dip-slip fault propagation; and this boundary facilitated kinematic and geodetic segmentation, forming a Basin and Range rift segment boundary.
Multimethod evaluation of health services integration for neglected tropical diseases requiring case management in Liberia
Authors: Kollie Karsor K. , Theobald Sally , Jones Lent , Kpadeh Otis , Nallo Gartee , Borbor Darwosu , Taylor Mark , Dean Laura , Phillip Maneesh , Godwin-Akpan Tiawanlyn G , Mensah Deborah Fulamuso , Wickenden Anna , Kollie Jewel T , Rogers Emerson , Zaizay Zeela , Stewart Martyn
Published: January 2024

Introduction

The WHO neglected tropical disease (NTD) roadmap stresses the importance of integrating NTDs requiring case management (CM) within the health system. The NTDs programme of Liberia is among the first to implement an integrated approach and evaluate its impact.

Methods

A retrospective study of three of five CM-NTD-endemic counties that implemented the integrated approach was compared with cluster-matched counties with non-integrated CM-NTD. We compared trends in CM-NTD integrated versus non-integrated county clusters. We conducted a pre-post comparison of WHO high-level outcomes using data collected during intervention years compared with baseline in control counties. Changes in health outcomes, effect sizes for different diseases and rate ratios with statistically significant differences were determined. Complementary qualitative research explored CM-NTD stakeholders’ perceptions, analysed through the framework approach, which is a transparent, multistage approach for qualitative thematic interdisciplinary data analysis.

Results

The detection rates for all diseases combined improved significantly in the intervention compared with the control clusters. Besides leprosy, detection rates improved with large effects, over fourfold increase with statistically significant effects for individual diseases (p<0.000; 95% CI 3.5 to 5.4). Access to CM-NTD services increased in integrated counties by 71 facilities, compared with three facilities in non-integrated counties. Qualitative findings highlight training and supervision as inputs underpinning increases in case detection, but challenges with refresher training, medicine supply and incentives negatively impact quality, equity and access.

Conclusions

Integrating CM-NTDs improves case detection, accessibility and availability of CM-NTD services, promoting universal health coverage. Early case detection and the quality of care need further strengthening.
Which low urgent triaged febrile children are suitable for a fast track? An observational European study
Authors: Tan Chantal D , Vermont Clementien L , Zachariasse Joany M , von Both Ulrich , Carrol Enitan D , Eleftheriou Irini , Emonts Marieke , van der Flier Michiel , Herberg Jethro , Kohlmaier Benno , Levin Michael , Lim Emma , Maconochie Ian K , Martinon-Torres Federico , Nijman Ruud G , Pokorn Marko , Rivero-Calle Irene , Rudzāte Aleksandra , Tsolia Maria , Zenz Werner , Zavadska Dace , Moll Henriette A
Published: January 2024

Background

The number of paediatric patients visiting the ED with non-urgent problems is increasing, leading to poor patient flow and ED crowding. Fast track aims to improve the efficiency of evaluation and discharge of low acuity patients. We aimed to identify which febrile children are suitable for a fast track based on presenting symptoms and management.

Methods

This study is part of the Management and Outcome of Fever in children in Europe study, which is an observational study including routine data of febrile children <18 years attending 12 European EDs. We included febrile, low urgent children (those assigned a triage acuity of either ‘standard’ or ‘non-urgent’ using the Manchester Triage System) and defined children as suitable for fast track when they have minimal resource use and are discharged home. Presenting symptoms consisted of neurological (n=237), respiratory (n=8476), gastrointestinal (n=1953) and others (n=3473, reference group). Multivariable logistic regression analyses regarding presenting symptoms and management (laboratory blood testing, imaging and admission) were performed with adjustment for covariates: patient characteristics, referral status, previous medical care, previous antibiotic use, visiting hours and ED setting.

Results

We included 14 139 children with a median age of 2.7 years (IQR 1.3–5.2). The majority had respiratory symptoms (60%), viral infections (50%) and consisted of self-referrals (69%). The neurological group received imaging more often (adjusted OR (aOR) 1.8, 95% CI 1.1 to 2.9) and were admitted more frequently (aOR 1.9, 95% CI 1.4 to 2.7). The respiratory group had fewer laboratory blood tests performed (aOR 0.6, 95% CI 0.5 to 0.7), were less frequently admitted (aOR 0.6, 95% CI 0.5 to 0.7), but received imaging more often (aOR 1.8, 95% CI 1.6 to 2.0). Lastly, the gastrointestinal group had more laboratory blood tests performed (aOR 1.2. 95% CI 1.1 to 1.4) and were admitted more frequently (aOR 1.4, 95% CI 1.2 to 1.6).

Conclusion

We determined that febrile children triaged as low urgent with respiratory symptoms were most suitable for a fast track. This study provides evidence for which children could be triaged to a fast track, potentially improving overall patient flow at the ED.
Economic evaluation of first-line cryoballoon ablation versus antiarrhythmic drug therapy for the treatment of paroxysmal atrial fibrillation from an English National Health Service perspective
Authors: Paisey John , Moss Joe , Andrade Jason , Kuniss Malte , Wazni Oussama , Chierchia Gian Battista , Mealing Stuart , Ismyrloglou Eleni , Sale Alicia , Souter Maxim , Kaplon Rachelle , Bromilow Tom , Lane Emily , Lewis Damian , Todd Derick
Published: January 2024

Introduction

Three recent randomised controlled trials have demonstrated that pulmonary vein isolation as an initial rhythm control strategy with cryoablation reduces atrial arrhythmia recurrence in patients with symptomatic paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (PAF) compared with antiarrhythmic drug (AAD) therapy. The aim of this study was to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of first-line cryoablation compared with first-line AADs for treating symptomatic PAF in an English National Health Service (NHS) setting.

Methods

Individual patient-level data from 703 participants with PAF enrolled into Cryo-FIRST (Catheter Cryoablation Versus Antiarrhythmic Drug as First-Line Therapy of Paroxysmal Atrial Fibrillation), STOP AF First (Cryoballoon Catheter Ablation in an Antiarrhythmic Drug Naive Paroxysmal Atrial Fibrillation) and EARLY-AF (Early Aggressive Invasive Intervention for Atrial Fibrillation) were used to derive the parameters applied in the cost-effectiveness model (CEM). The CEM comprised a hybrid decision tree and Markov structure. The decision tree had a 1-year time horizon and was used to inform the initial health state allocation in the first cycle of the Markov model (40-year time horizon; 3-month cycle length). Health benefits were expressed in quality-adjusted life years (QALYs). Costs and benefits were discounted at 3.5% per year. Model outcomes were generated using probabilistic sensitivity analysis.

Results

The results estimated that cryoablation would yield more QALYs (+0.17) and higher costs (+£641) per patient over a lifetime than AADs. This produced an incremental cost-effectiveness ratio of £3783 per QALY gained. Independent of initial treatment, individuals were expected to receive ~1.2 ablations over a lifetime. There was a 45% relative reduction in time spent in AF health states for those initially treated with cryoablation.

Discussion

AF rhythm control with first-line cryoablation is cost effective compared with first-line AADs in an English NHS setting.
Soil phosphorus improved the soil organic carbon of converted forestland from cropland within southern Qinling-Daba Mountains, China
Authors: Li Xujia , Chen Lixin , Wang Bo , Dang Wei
Published: January 2024

Previous studies showed that the program of converted forestland from cropland (CFC), initiated by the Chinese government in 1999, has been a significant contributor to China’s efforts towards carbon neutrality. Here, the 20-year CFCs of two aspects (sunny and shady) and three positions (upper, middle, and lower) hillslopes, adjacent maize ( Zea mays L.) cropland, and natural secondary Castanea mollissima forest (CCF) within southern Qinling-Daba Mountains region (Qinba) had been selected as the targets. The soil bulk density (SBD), soil organic carbon concentration (SOCC), total nitrogen (TN), and total phosphorus (TP) had been determined. The results showed that SBD increased with depth, and other parameters decreased, which varied largely with the aspect and position. The SOC stocks (SOCS) of CCF, cropland, and CFC were 152.81 ± 5.17, 168.19 ± 11.87, and 183.92 ± 35.69 Mg C hm−2, respectively. The SOCCs of CCF, cropland, and CFC were 17.71 ± 4.38, 20.23 ± 5.28, and 21.89 ± 7.33 g kg−1, respectively. The CFC increased the correlations between SOC and TP, and decreased the correlations between SOC and TN. The CFC shifted the relationships of lg SOC versus lg N:P and lg SOC versus lg TP from decreasing returns of cropland to isometric. Overall, the CFCs enhanced SOC, especially in the middle shady hillslopes within the southern middle-mountain of Qinba. In contrast, SOC levels decreased in the sunny upper hillslopes. We presented the evidence that hillslopes aspect and position had significant effects on SOC, which was regulated by soil phosphorus.
Shadow of higher dimensional collapsing dark star and blackhole
Authors: Roy Sagnik , Chatterjee Soham , Koley Ratna
Published: January 2024

The shadow of a black hole or a collapsing star is of great importance as we can extract important properties of the object and of the surrounding spacetime from the shadow profile. It can also be used to distinguish different types of black holes and ultra compact objects. In this work, we have analytically calculated the shadow of a higher dimensional collapsing dark star, described by higher dimensional Vaidya metric, by choosing a slightly generalized version of Misner–Sharp mass function. We have also numerically investigated the properties of the shadows of the black holes and the collapsing stars for a slightly more general mass function. Examining the potential influence of extra spatial dimensions on the shadow, we have explored the possibility of distinguishing higher dimensions from the standard four-dimensional spacetime.
A possible critical heating from decay reaction and new upper limit of the magnetic monopole flux for the supermassive white dwarfs
Authors: Liu Jing-Jing , Liu Dong-Mei
Published: January 2024

We present the new upper limit of the magnetic monopole (MM) flux and discuss three MM models of the heating resource for supermassive white dwarfs (WDs) by considering the effect of temperature on thermonuclear reaction and mass radius relation of WDs based on the catalytic nuclear decay by MM. We discuss the luminosity and compared it with the observations to apply to 25 supermassive WDs. We find the maxnium of the number of MM captured can be $$9.6943\times 10^{11}$$

9.6943
×

10
11

, and $$9.0671\times 10^{11}$$

9.0671
×

10
11

for O+Ne core high mass WDs (e.g., WD J055631.17+130639.78), and C+O core high mass WDs (e.g., WD J055631.17+130639.78), respectively. The luminosities increase with the increasing of the temperature and are agreed well with the observations for model (III). The differences are no more than one, and three orders of magnitude higher than observations for model (III), and (I, II), respectively. Finaly, we find that the maxnium of the upper limits of the MM flux $$\phi _{m}$$

ϕ
m

due to RC effect can be $$9.1071\times 10^{-15}$$

9.1071
×

10

-
15

, and $$2.7670\times 10^{-14}$$

2.7670
×

10

-
14

for O+Ne and C+O core high mass WDs, respectively. Our results are about one and two orders of magnitude higher than those of Abbasi et al. (EPJC 69:361, 2010) (Albert et al. in JHEP 07:054, 2017) for O+Ne, and C+O core mass WDs, respectively, and can be about three and four orders of magnitude higher than those of Aartsen et al. (EPJC 76:133, 2016) (Ic40, Ic86), respectively. Our results show that the monopole-catalyzed nucleon decay could prevent WDs from cooling down into a stellar graveyard by keeping them hot.
Cross-Subject Brain–Computer Interfaces with Joint Distribution Alignment
Authors: Zhao Xianghong , Ma Longhua , Cai Weiming , Lian Bin , Cui Jialin , Ye Lingjian
Published: January 2024

Distributions of electroencephalogram (EEG) data vary greatly across different subjects. It is a very important issue how to generalize models across subjects. In this paper, an algorithm is proposed to build high-performance cross-subject motor-imagery brain–computer interfaces (BCIs) for a new subject. First, a novel distance metric is proposed to quantify the joint distribution discrepancy (JDD) between data from different subjects. It gives better evaluations for discrepancies between different distributions than conventional probabilistic metrics. Moreover, it can be extended to design many novel algorithms. Second, a support vector machine combined with JDD (JDMSVM) is proposed for cross-subject classification. For dataset dataIVa, the JDMSVM runs best under 9 out of 15 situations and averagely outperforms counterparts by 10.1%, 9.5%, 3.2% and 1.7%, respectively. For GigaDataset, JDMSVM runs best under 8 of 12 conditions. It averagely outperforms its counterparts by 10.4%, 5.3%, 2.7% and 2.4%, respectively. The experiments demonstrate that the proposed algorithm is effective and competitive for cross-subject BCI.
Subnetwork Based Traffic Aware Rerouting for CMesh Bufferless Network-on-Chip
Authors: Kunthara Rose George , James Rekha K. , Sleeba Simi Zerine , Jose John
Published: January 2024

On-chip interconnection networks are primarily designed for efficient, high-performance Tiled Chip Multi-Processors (TCMP) architectures. Bufferless Network-on-Chip (NoC) is a better design option owing to their simpler router structure, area and power efficiency. Deflection routers have similar network performance of buffered designs at low to medium network traffic as deflections are minimal. But when network load increases, deflections also rise rapidly leading to poor network performance because of increased latency, power dissipation and unbalanced traffic. In this work, we propose a subnetwork based adaptive Concentrated Mesh (CMesh) bufferless router where deflections are considerably reduced by redirecting competing flit in one subnetwork to vacant port of the other subnetwork without any additional cycle latency. Simulations conducted over two-dimensional and multidimensional CMesh networks show that our topologically independent, adaptive deflection routing mechanism provides better network load balance and improves performance by minimizing unbounded deflections when compared to designs under consideration.
An Example of Intelligent Security System Based on Deep Learning
Authors: Ramakić Adnan , Bundalo Zlatko , Bundalo Dušanka
Published: January 2024

In this paper, an example of an intelligent security system based on deep learning approach has been analyzed and described. Security is an important element in many aspects of human life. Depending on customer requirements, different levels of security may be required and implemented. Nowadays, artificial intelligence is becoming an indispensable part in many areas of human life and accordingly security systems are also based on the new achievements in this field. In this paper, an intelligent security system based on two methods for identifying persons, gait recognition and face recognition, was described. The two methods mentioned above can be used to give persons access to different buildings, facilities, institutions, etc. or to different indoor or outdoor areas. In light of the above, the aforementioned system uses face and gait recognition to identify persons who should be granted access to a facility or a specific area within the facility. Accordingly, two deep learning models for gait and face recognition have been developed and described. The analysis, the settings defined and the results obtained in relation to the models developed were also described.