bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mpemba-Like Sensory Withdrawal Effect
Authors: Pagare Asawari , Lu Zhiyue
Published: December 2024

Biological sensors rely on the temporal dynamics of ligand concentration for signaling. The sensory performance is bounded by the distinguishability between the sensory state transition dynamics under different environmental protocols. This work presents a comprehensive theory to characterize arbitrary transient sensory dynamics of biological sensors. Here the sensory performance is quantified by the Kullback-Leibler (KL) divergence between the probability distributions of the sensor's stochastic paths. We introduce a novel benchmark to assess a sensor's transient sensory performance arbitrarily far from equilibrium. We identify a counterintuitive phenomenon in multistate sensors: while an initial exposure to high ligand concentration may hinder a sensor's sensitivity towards a future concentration up-shift, certain sensors may show a boost in sensitivity if the initial high concentration exposure is followed by a transient resetting at a low concentration environment. The boosted performance exceeds that of a sensor starting from an initially low concentration environment. This effect, reminiscent of a drug withdrawal effect, can be explained by the Markovian dynamics of the multistate sensor, similar to the Markovian Mpemba effect. Moreover, an exhaustive machine learning study of four-state sensors reveals a tight connection between the sensor's performance and the structure of the Markovian graph of its states.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Residual stress depth profiling based on a triaxial stress model: the principal stress gradients in magnetron-sputtered molybdenum films
Authors: Schoderböck Peter , Ploner Kevin
Published: December 2024

Asymmetric X-ray diffraction was used to study the gradients within a triaxial principal residual stress state in a 1.0 µm magnetron-sputtered molybdenum coating. The depth information was investigated by varying the angle of incidence α and the resulting alteration in the X-ray penetration depth. The evaluation method used, which is based on pattern decomposition, extracts all sample-specific contributions (reflection broadening, 2θ shifts) from the diffractograms and considers the diffraction geometry characteristic aberrations. This procedure allows the depth profiles of all principal stress components to be resolved. The in-plane stresses σ11 and σ22 show a progression of compressive stresses in the direction towards the substrate interface. The resolution of the depth profile of the z component σ33 was also successful, indicating a steep gradient in tensile stress in the near-surface region.
Can the co-creation of local food products be a key factor in rural development?
Authors: Fandos-Herrera Carmina , Mercadé-Melé Pere , Rubio Pastor María Ángeles
Published: December 2024

Purpose

This study aims to comprehensively explore the behaviour of potential consumers in terms of their perception of how local agri-food co-creation activities in rural areas influence the perceived quality of agri-food products and the perceived value of the sustainable development goals (SDGs) in rural areas. To do so, it is important to start by answering the research question: Are consumers interested in the co-creation of agri-food products in rural areas?

Design/methodology/approach

The methodology consists of two phases, one qualitative and one quantitative. The first phase includes four interviews with experts on gastronomy, rural tourism and services in rural areas and two focus groups with consumers involved in the research topic. In the quantitative phase, a representative sample of almost 700 people in Spain was obtained.

Findings

The first result shows a high level of interest in participating in co-creation activities with agri-food products in rural areas. Other research results suggest that the social integration of consumers with the local community through co-creation activities could improve the appreciation and market position of local foods, as well as their perceived beneficial effect on sustainable development goals. The results also demonstrate how the perceived value of co-creation activities has a positive impact on the intention to undertake and recommend such activities.

Originality/value

This study highlights the importance of co-creation in rural areas, in line with the SDGs and consumer preferences for locally produced sustainable food. Involving consumers in the production process allows small producers to stand out, fostering innovation and rural development. The results show consumers' interest in co-creation, motivated by altruism and the desire to preserve local heritage. The study highlights the indirect impact of co-creation on rural development, emphasising the perceived value and engagement of consumers. Ultimately, it suggests promoting sustainable rural economies through collaborative efforts between producers, consumers and local stakeholders.
Posting “what” on social media? The (mis-)use of Facebook by young people in refugee camps
Authors: Baú Valentina
Published: December 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to shed light on the threats that young people living in refugee camps face in their use of Facebook. While social media enable a participatory process of communication (Russo et al., 2008), which is based on the agency of the communicator and defined by their own cultural and moral goals (Lee et al., 2023), these platforms can at times be inappropriately pursued if the communicator lacks relevant skills. The outcome of such a pursuit can also inadvertently damage social cohesion in the camp and lead to conflict.

Design/methodology/approach

A total of 17 semi-structured interviews were carried out in 2023 with young people between the ages of 20 and 29 living in Kakuma refugee camp. The young refugees were asked questions related to their own behaviour and practices on Facebook and to those of their peers. The focus was specifically on the context of the interactions with other youth in Kakuma and on the camp’s Facebook groups or pages.

Findings

Findings reveal that limited knowledge, understanding and awareness of the functioning and affordances of social media platforms such as Facebook are leading young refugees towards multiple risks involved in public online interactions. This has significant negative impacts not only on the lives of the youth who are active on social media in the camp but also on the relationships with their peers and overall community harmony.

Originality/value

A number of studies have identified some of the dangers arising for refugees operating in online spaces, and particularly on social media platforms (see, for example, Tech Transparency Project, 2022; Dekker et al., 2018). Yet, there is a lack of research on the outcomes that young refugees face in their immediate virtual and physical environment as a result of their online behaviour. To the best of the author’s knowledge, this study is the first to bring to light the nature of the interactions and the dynamics that young, encamped refugees engage in on Facebook and to offer useful reflections that can inform digital literacy efforts carried out by development agencies.
Exploring the significance of knowledge transfer for facilitating cross-border acquisitions: an extensive examination of current themes, gaps, and potential future research directions
Authors: Rani Neelam , Yaqub Muhammad Zafar , Singh Nidhi , Magliocca Pierpaolo
Published: December 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to review how knowledge transfer, including knowledge integration, absorptive capacity and reverse knowledge transfer (RKT) in cross-border acquisitions, is examined in existing research work. The authors also propose directions to advance research in cross-border acquisitions.

Design/methodology/approach

A systematic literature review is conducted, and related propositions are advanced based on scientometric and bibliometric analysis of 146 papers published over 10 years about tacit knowledge transfer, innovation activities, industrial policy effect on merger decisions, top management experience and value creation in cross-border acquisition. First, the authors searched major themes with the help of Scopus, and later, the authors analysed all received literature with the help of VOS Viewer.

Findings

This review facilitates us to identify six clusters and main author keywords. These six clusters are the underlying six research streams, including RKT, cultural distances, value creation, absorptive capacity, innovation and reference to India and China.

Originality/value

Despite knowledge transfer constituting important antecedents and critical factors for the success of cross-border acquisitions, knowledge management in the acquired company through proper knowledge transfer and knowledge integration is not given enough attention. Current literature still fails to provide a holistic picture of how firms strategically manage knowledge post-acquisition. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study is the first to analyse the dynamics of knowledge transfer in cross-border acquisitions. The study is a novel attempt to relate current research themes to emerging areas of cross-border acquisitions.
Physiological and symbiotic flexibility of reef‐building corals to new habitats: Insights from clonal colony transplants
Authors: Gantt Shelby E. , Keister Elise F. , Jerry Samantha E. , Ferguson Tindal Rose , Manfroy Alicia A. , Merck Dakotah E. , Muller Erinn M. , Kemp Dustin W.
Published: December 2024

Global decline of coral reefs shows varied responses to environmental stress, highlighting the need to understand these differences. The physiological plasticity of coral hosts and their microalgal symbionts can allow the coral holobiont to thrive in diverse marine environments, suggesting new strategies for effective restoration.

To investigate local environmental influence on the physiology of two Caribbean coral species (Acropora palmata and Orbicella faveolata), clonal colonies from a land‐based nursery were transferred to nearshore and offshore reefs for one year.

After transfer to coral reef habitats, both coral species shifted in photopigmentation and host energy reserves. Acropora palmata also shifted dominant symbionts and altered growth.

Stable isotopes identified higher autotrophic proportions of metabolic carbon and higher photosynthesis rates in transplanted colonies compared to those in the land‐based nursery.

Synthesis and applications. These findings improve our understanding of coral acclimatization and physiological plasticity, highlighting potential side effects of domestication. As coral restoration accelerates globally, this knowledge is crucial for guiding efforts and conserving endangered ecosystems by supplying considerations for improving coral‐rearing systems and providing information on genera‐specific acclimatization to transplant sites.
Is gratitude science inclusive? A scoping review on gratitude in individuals with diverse needs and exceptionalities
Authors: Datu Jesus Alfonso D.
Published: December 2024

Past meta‐analytic, systematic and narrative reviews have painted a highly optimistic backdrop on the psychological, physical and social rewards associated with gratitude. However, as most of these reviews focused on how gratitude facilitates optimal psychological functioning in typically developing samples, question remains on the extent to which these findings are generalizable to individuals with diverse special needs or disabilities. This scoping review aims to map scholarly evidence on the psychological benefits of gratitude in individuals with various special needs and exceptionalities. Most studies relied on the dispositional gratitude model (~59%) and cross‐sectional designs (~75%) in investigating gratitude in people with diverse needs. Majority of empirical investigations also focused on studying gratitude in Western cultural contexts such as the United States. Further, prior studies showed that gratitude increased positively valenced well‐being outcomes. Future theoretical implications and scholarly directions are charted.
Outcomes of open versus minimally invasive oesophagectomy in an Australian quaternary referral centre: a historical case‐matched study
Authors: Kilpatrick Fiona , Kanhere Harsh , Stranz Conrad , Prasad Shalvin , Sundararajan Krishnaswamy , Edwards Suzanne , Trochsler Markus , Reddi Benjamin
Published: December 2024

Background

Oesophagectomy for surgical management of oesophageal carcinoma has previously been performed via an open approach (OE), with a change in recent years to a minimally invasive technique (MIO). We performed a retrospective study to compare the rates of post‐operative complications between OE and MIO patients at our institution. Secondary outcomes included nodal yield and ICU LOS.

Methods

This is a retrospective, observational, case‐matched single centre study of 2‐stage oesophagectomies for carcinoma from January 2011 to December 2021. Fourty‐four MIO patients were matched by age to 44 OE patients. Post‐operative pulmonary, cardiac and surgical complications were defined using the Esophagectomy Complications Consensus Group (ECCG) guidelines.

Results

Baseline characteristics were similar for the two groups, with a higher ASA grade for patients undergoing MIO. There was no significant difference in post‐operative pulmonary complication rates between the OE versus MIO groups (41% versus 55%, P = 0.29). There were more cardiac arrhythmias in the MIO group however this was not statistically significant (9.1% versus 22.7%, P = 0.08). Rate of re‐operation was equal between the groups with no difference between rates of other surgical complications, ICU LOS or hospital LOS. Significantly higher nodal yield was achieved in the MIO group. Overall rate of Clavien‐Dindo graded complications were similar (55% versus 66%, P = 0.28).

Conclusions

MIO was associated with higher lymph node yield, and comparable complication rates when compared to OE and does not significantly alter time spent in hospital.
Fungal positivity and other laboratory parameters in HIV‐ and non‐HIV‐related cryptococcal meningitis patients upon antifungal treatment
Authors: Liang Chaojuan , Xi Shaoyong , Su Hanzhen , Mo Lida , Jiang Liejun , Lu Huan , Huang Huayi
Published: December 2024

The association between fungal positivity in cerebral spinal fluid (CSF) and other laboratory parameters in cryptococcal meningitis (CM) with or without HIV infection is unclear. India ink staining and culture were used to detect the Cryptococcus in the CSF during the treatment course. Hematology analysis and chemistry analysis of CSF were also performed. Flow cytometry was used to analyze the T lymphocyte subsets in the blood. The positivity of the culture reduced significantly faster than that of the ink staining in both HIV and non‐HIV patients between treatment time points. The total protein in the CSF of the HIV‐related patients was significantly lower than in the non‐HIV‐related patients at all time points of treatment (p = 0.009, 0.012, 0.001, and 0.037, respectively). The lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) in the CSF of the HIV‐related patients at admission was significantly lower than in the non‐HIV‐related patients (p = 0.017). There were significant differences in glucose and LDH levels between different time points of treatment (p = 0.000 and 0.016, respectively) in the non‐HIV‐related patients. For Cryptococcus detection in CSF, the culture method appeared to be more sensitive and reliable than the ink staining method. HIV‐related CM patients showed certain hematologic and CSF chemistry features which may help guide the management of patients.
Failure of formalization: State protection of employer interests and consequences for domestic workers' organizing in India
Authors: Parpiani Maansi
Published: December 2024

This paper examines the demand for, creation and ultimate failure of a legislation aimed at formalizing domestic workers in Mumbai, India. The paper is based on an analysis of parliamentary discussions on the legislation process and ethnographic fieldwork with diverse groups of domestic workers undertaken between 2014 and 2021. I critique the claim that formalization policies are merely ill‐suited to the norms or complexities of domestic work. Instead, I argue that formalization fails because the state drafts laws that actively protect the interest of domestic workers' employers, rather than domestic workers. In drafting a piece of legislation that creates no obligations on employers and offers few immediate benefits to workers, I locate its failure in the context of widespread labor deregulation and a shrinking formal sector in India. Crafting such a law, the state plays a partisan role and stems the momentum of further domestic worker organizing in Mumbai.
The ability to value: An additional criterion for decision‐making capacity
Authors: Harcarik Lauren , Kim Scott Y. H. , Millum Joseph
Published: December 2024

In the United States, the dominant model of decision‐making capacity (DMC) is the “four abilities model,” which judges DMC according to four criteria: understanding, appreciation, reasoning, and communicating a choice. Some critics argue that this model is “too cognitive” because it ignores the role of emotions and values in decision‐making. But so far there is no consensus about how to incorporate such factors into a model of DMC while still ensuring that patients with unusual or socially disapproved values still have their autonomous decisions respected. In this paper, we aim to give an account of the role of values in decision‐making which can answer some of the lingering questions about capacity. In the current literature, defenders of the inclusion of values in DMC tend to propose solutions which focus on the distorted or incoherent attributes of the values themselves. We argue that shifting the focus onto valuing as an ability is a better solution and that a complete picture of capacity includes understanding, appreciation, reasoning, communicating a choice, and the ability to value. On the basis of a conceptual analysis of the necessary conditions for autonomous decision‐making, we derive a conception of the ability to value. On our account, the ability to value has four components: the possession of values, the ability to access those values, the ability to engage in practical reasoning with one's values, and the ability to act on the result of that reasoning. We describe the positive components of the ability to value, some indicators of impairment, and some implications of our account.
Demonstrating Progress and Potential: Lessons Learned From Federally Funded Inclusive Postsecondary Education in the United States
Authors: Grigal Meg , Papay Clare , Bukaty Caitlyn , Choiseul‐Praslin Belkis , Weir Cate , VanHorn Stinnett Chelsea
Published: December 2024

Background

Since 2010, there has been significant growth in the United States in the number of students with intellectual disability accessing higher education, driven by federal legislation and funding. Currently, over 340 institutions of higher education provide programs of study for students with intellectual disability. Of these programs, 134 have received federal funding through the Transition and Postsecondary Education Program for Students with Intellectual Disabilities (TPSID) model demonstration program. The Think College National Coordinating Center (NCC), the evaluator of the TPSID model demonstration projects, has collected annual data on student activities and outcomes.

Methods

This study provides trend analysis of data from the TPSID model demonstration program on almost 5000 students with intellectual disability over a 13‐year period.

Findings

This analysis identified trends in student characteristics, university access, employment, support and outcomes of federally funded higher education programs.

Conclusions

The TPSID model demonstration program and resulting student and program data substantially impacted higher education program development and quality in the United States. Trends reflected in this study demonstrate growth in inclusive course access, employment, credential attainment and use of financial aid for college students with intellectual disability. The study provides implications for practice, research and policy in the United States and internationally.
Clinical Outcomes of Bone‐Level and Tissue‐Level Short Implants Placed in Posterior Maxilla: A Case–Control Study
Authors: Lombardi Teresa , Rapani Antonio , Ezeddine Fatima , Perazzolo Giulia , Di Lenarda Roberto , Sivolella Stefano , Stacchi Claudio
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Short implants are today a reliable, minimally invasive option for the rehabilitation of the posterior maxilla. However, maintaining marginal bone stability remains a crucial factor for long‐term success, particularly in the case of short implants. The present multicenter prospective case–control study aimed to compare the clinical outcomes of bone‐level and tissue‐level short implants in the posterior maxilla, focusing on implant survival and peri‐implant marginal bone stability over 1 year of function.

Methods

Fifty‐nine patients who met specific inclusion criteria were enrolled and treated by three clinical centers with a total of 74 short implants, either bone‐level (7 mm in length, placed 1 mm sub‐crestally) or tissue‐level (5 or 6.5 mm in length). The primary outcome was physiological bone remodeling (PBR) measured via radiographs at baseline (T0), prosthesis delivery (T1), and 12 months post‐loading (T2). Statistical analysis was performed to evaluate differences in PBR between groups, with multivariate analysis assessing the influence of various patient and site‐specific factors.

Results

The final analysis included 58 patients who were treated with a total of 71 short implants, comprising 36 tissue‐level and 35 bone‐level implants (one patient dropped out as he did not attend follow‐up visits on time). All implants were rehabilitated with fixed, screwed prosthetics after 5 months, with no recorded complications up to 1 year of loading. Stability was similar between the two implant types at T0 and T1, with no significant differences in insertion torque and implant stability quotient (ISQ). Multivariate analysis revealed a significant positive correlation between insertion torque and ISQ at T0, as well as with bicortical engagement of the implant apex with the sinus floor. Tissue‐level implants demonstrated significantly lower peri‐implant bone remodeling (PBR) compared to bone‐level implants at both T1 (0.11 ± 0.27 mm vs. 0.34 ± 0.35 mm, p = 0.004) and T2 (0.30 ± 0.23 mm vs. 0.55 ± 0.42 mm, p = 0.003). Multivariate analysis showed a significant positive correlation between PBR (T0–T1) and thin vertical mucosal thickness (≤ 2 mm) at T0 in both tissue‐level and bone‐level implants. Additionally, PBR (T1–T2) in both groups significantly correlated with the use of short prosthetic abutments (≤ 2 mm) and, only in bone‐level implants, with crown emergence angles > 30°.

Conclusion

Both tissue‐level and bone‐level short implants are effective options for implant‐supported rehabilitation in the posterior maxilla. Tissue‐level short implants offer superior marginal bone stability compared to bone‐level implants placed subcrestally, suggesting their favorable use in clinical practice.
Creating an Authorizing Environment to Care for Country
Authors: Shields Teagan , Talbot Leah , Pascoe Jack , Gilbert Josh , Gould Jade , Hunter Barry , van Leeuwen Stephen
Published: December 2024

Typically, Western Science approaches the study of complex systems by examining the component parts outside of their contextual relationships. In contrast, Indigenous people continue to advocate the need for land and seascape approaches that include all aspects of life, particularly the special relationship between Kin (people), Country, and Knowledge. Globally, Indigenous people are lobbying for environmental research to take a rights‐based approach that improves economic opportunities; confers greater authority over the stewardship of Country; delivers equity in managing Country; emboldens control to integrate knowledge systems; values and promotes culture; and recognizes Indigenous self‐determination. In Australia, the National Indigenous Environment Research Network (NIERN) proposal offers a solution that supports the rights‐based approach driven by Indigenous Australians through the establishment of a community of practice guided by Indigenous researchers and Indigenous Knowledge holders. We describe this Indigenous‐led solution to the self‐determination of Indigenous environmental research priorities by exploring the concept, the authorizing environment, and the mutual benefits that could be delivered by such a network. The empowerment of Indigenous people in research is possible if an all‐of‐system approach is taken. This approach must involve Indigenous people in all decision‐making processes including the development of research priorities, the design of methodologies, the interpretation of findings, and finally the evaluation of outputs and outcomes.
High concordance of PET‐CT treatment response evaluation according to PERCIST 1.0 when comparing images reconstructed with OSEM vs. BSREM
Authors: Skoglund Tilda , Minarik David , Edenbrandt Lars , Trägårdh Elin
Published: December 2024

Background

Positron emission tomography (PET) response criteria in solid tumours (PERCIST 1.0) is a systematic assessment of therapy response with fluorine 18 fluorodeoxyglucose ([18F]FDG) PET. The ordered subset expectation maximization (OSEM) and block sequential regularized expectation maximization (BSREM) reconstruction algorithms are both commonly used. The impact of using OSEM or BSREM on PERCIST 1.0 is not fully determined. This study aimed to compare treatment response evaluation between the reconstructions OSEM and BSREM according to PERCIST 1.0.

Methods

The highest peak standardized uptake value corrected for lean body mass (SULpeak) in a lesion were measured in PET‐CT scans from 90 patients with metastatic breast cancer or malignant melanoma, who had undergone two [18F]FDG PET with computer tomography (CT) scans for treatment evaluation purpose. SUL measurements in the reference organ were also calculated. All scans were reconstructed with OSEM and BSREM. Bland Altman plots and Spearman correlation coefficient were used for comparing measurements obtained from OSEM and BSREM images. Patients were categorized as a complete metabolic response (CMR), partial metabolic response (PMR), stable metabolic disease (SMD), or progressive metabolic disease (PMD).

Results

The mean standard deviation (SD) of SULmean in the reference organ was slightly lower for BSREM images, resulting in a slightly lower threshold. Lesion SULpeak was slightly higher for BSREM images compared with OSEM images. Only 5 out of 90 patients had different response evaluations for the different reconstructions.

Conclusion

PERCIST 1.0 serves as a robust response evaluation criterion and is only marginally dependent on the reconstruction used.
Identifying focus zones for the conservation and promotion of priority birds in Swiss farmland
Authors: Klein Noëlle , Adde Antoine , Grêt‐Regamey Adrienne , Guisan Antoine , Herzog Felix , Jeanneret Philippe , Kay Sonja
Published: December 2024

Modern agriculture faces conflicting objectives—increasing agricultural production while preserving and fostering biodiversity. As intensive agricultural management threatens biodiversity, legal obligations aim to halt biodiversity loss and safeguard threatened species. In Switzerland, agricultural priority species have been defined to set environmental goals for biodiversity, with limited success so far. This study spatially defines farmland focus zones with potential for the promotion of priority species for conservation in agricultural landscapes. We overlaid information about field‐level impact of agricultural activities using the Swiss Agricultural Life Cycle Assessment (SALCA‐BD) as “impact of agricultural activities” with the potential distribution of Swiss priority birds. The potential distribution was assessed by aggregating predictions from species distribution models of 27 bird priority species. We identified significantly high/low values for management impact and potential distribution using hotspot analyses. Multivariate clustering was used to identify zones that should be preserved (low management impact, high bird potential) and zones where conservation measures could be promoted (high management impact, high bird potential). Zones which were minimally impacted by management and had a high potential for birds included grassland with structures, covering ca. 18% of the studied farmland. Zones with high management impacts consisted mainly of arable land with little structures, covering ca. 31% of the studied farmland, occurring mainly in the Swiss lowlands. Our results help to assess and visualize the intertwined links between agricultural management and the species inhabiting these agricultural landscapes in a spatially explicit manner. This can help to identify zones and regions for ecological promotion and set priorities for action within future agricultural policies.
Value for money in humanitarian assistance: How does cost efficiency vary across cash and voucher programmes?
Authors: Tulloch Caitlin , Hoyer Kayla , Chrisco Joel
Published: December 2024

Motivation

Cash and voucher assistance has become a key part of humanitarian response over the last decade as it is able to meet people's basic needs during a crisis and it has high cost efficiency relative to traditional in‐kind assistance.

Donors have been introducing cost‐efficiency benchmarks—set as cost‐transfer ratios, the ratio of costs of delivery to the value of cash or goods provided to beneficiaries—for cash and voucher programmes. These benchmarks function as price ceilings for humanitarian agencies providing cash and voucher assistance. The welfare effects of these price ceilings, however, are unclear. They could induce greater efficiency, depending on the cost function for cash and voucher assistance programmes, but they could also have widely different consequences across contexts and could even undermine equity.

Purpose

We ask what determines the cost‐transfer ratios of cash and voucher assistance programs? How do cost‐transfer ratios vary by size of benefit delivered, local cost levels, scale of programme, and region? What do the results imply for setting cost‐efficiency benchmarks and humanitarian programming?

Approach and methods

We use a novel set of cost‐efficiency data for 31 humanitarian cash and voucher assistance programmes to examine the variation in delivery costs for humanitarian cash and voucher programmes, and to understand what causes these delivery costs to vary. Regression analysis is used to see the impacts of different characteristics of the programmes on their cost‐transfer ratios.

Findings

We find substantial variation in cost‐transfer ratio efficiency across cash and voucher assistance programmes based on their design and context. Programme scale and local price levels explain the largest fraction of variation: larger programmes and contexts with high local prices tend to push down cost‐transfer ratios.

Policy implications

Benchmarks for cost‐efficiency should be specific to context. Global price ceilings for cash and voucher assistance are likely to undermine quality delivery in contexts where local price levels are low and programmes are small, without fully capturing possible efficiency gains in other contexts. This finding, intuitive to economists familiar with economies of scale, runs counter to views common within humanitarian agencies, where limited budgets—budgets insufficient to meet needs—are thought to have the effect of improving cost‐efficiency.

Programmes designed around data‐driven benchmarks offer at least as much leverage as price ceilings for improving the value for money of cash and voucher assistance programmes.
Changes in population literacy and numeracy in Ghana after three decades of free basic education
Authors: Kyei Pearl S. , Dzanku Fred Mawunyo , Annim Samuel Kobina
Published: December 2024

Motivation

Despite increases in school enrolment, the world is facing a global learning crisis that suggests a trade‐off between the quantity and quality of education.

Purpose

This case study from Ghana examines whether there has been a long‐term change in educational outcomes, measured by population literacy and numeracy rates, in the decades following the implementation of a national free compulsory basic education policy. It further determines whether there are variations by level of education in the changes over time.

Approach and methods

This study used nationally representative repeated cross‐sectional data from two Ghana Living Standards Surveys (2006 and 2017) to estimate basic literacy and numeracy.

Findings

At the same level of education for the primary and lower secondary school levels, literacy and numeracy were lower in the latter period than a decade previously. These findings suggest that the expansion in gross enrolment at the primary and lower secondary school levels has been associated with a long‐term decline in the quality of education.

Policy implications

Considering these findings, it is crucial to consider the long‐term implications of expanding access to education on the quality of the education provided. These findings highlight the need for increased investment in quality education to complement the increase in access. This would ensure that children acquire foundational skills at the basic education level. Failure to maintain quality alongside expanded access could negatively impact workforce productivity, economic growth, and social equality.
Fungal Pathogens on Scotch Broom (Cytisus scoparius) and French Broom (Genista monspessulana) From Chile
Authors: Balocchi Felipe , Sanfuentes Eugenio A.
Published: December 2024

Scotch broom (Cytisus scoparius) and French broom (Genista monspessulana) are two woody legumes native to Europe and North Africa that have become invasive in different countries around the world. In Chile, they are among the most serious invasive plants of the central southern regions, where they cause severe negative impacts to natural environments, and have become a serious problem in plantation forestry. Numerous studies have sought biological control agents for both species, however, this approach has not been explored in Chile. The aim of this study was to prospect for pathogens and diseases occurring in these weeds in invaded areas of Chile and explore these as potential biocontrol agents. Surveys were conducted in 13 invaded areas between the Biobio and Araucanía regions, and diseased plants of both species were collected for isolation. The putative pathogens isolated from each broom species were inoculated into healthy plants, and isolates producing symptoms identified by DNA sequencing. These isolates were used in pathogenicity tests on both weed species and on Pinus radiata and Eucalyptus globulus plants. The most aggressive pathogens were Fusarium sambucinum, F. solani and Phytophthora multivora on C. scoparius; Neofusicoccum parvum and Chondrostereum purpureum on both weeds, and F. tricinctum s.l. on G. monspessulana. Except for F. trincinctum s.l., all isolates caused lesions on both weeds, and except for P. multivora, all isolates caused lesions on E. globulus and/or P. radiata. Most pathogens on C. scoparius had been reported previously on this host elsewhere, while most pathogens on G. monspessulana represent novel associations.
Brain microstructural damage through serial diffusion tensor imaging and outcomes in Susac syndrome: A prospective cohort study
Authors: Gaudemer Augustin , Henry‐Feugeas Marie‐Cécile , Peyre Marion , Kachaner Alexandra , Klein Isabelle , Khalil Antoine , Papo Thomas , Sacré Karim
Published: December 2024

Background

Susac syndrome (SuS) is a rare immune‐mediated microangiopathy with potential disabling evolution. We aimed to analyze brain microstructural damage through diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) in SuS and determine its association with poor outcomes.

Method

CarESS study is a prospective multicenter national cohort study of patients with SuS. Patients included at the principal investigator's center with at least two available brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) with DTI were analyzed. Mean diffusivity (MD) and fractional anisotropy (FA) were measured in fibers crossing three regions of interest (ROIs): the corpus callosum as a whole, the genu of the corpus callosum, and the splenium of the corpus callosum. The primary outcome was work resumption.

Results

Twenty‐two patients (36 (25;42) years, 16 (73%) females) were studied. The triad (i.e., brain, eye, and ear involvement) was complete in 21 (95%) patients. All but one patients received steroids alone or in combination with immunosuppressive drugs (n = 11) and/or IVIg (n = 7). Over a median follow‐up of 6 (5;8) years, 15 (68%) patients went back to work. FA and MD were longitudinally measured in 123 DTI MRI accounting for a median of 5.6 [4.2; 7] MRI per patient. Microstructural damages in the corpus callosum as a whole, the genu of the corpus callosum, and the splenium of the corpus callosum increased during follow‐up and were significantly associated with the inability to return to work.

Conclusion

Brain DTI identified microstructural damage in fibers crossing the corpus callosum that are associated with long‐term disability in SuS.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov portal identifier: NCT01481662 (https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT01481662?term=caress&draw=2&rank=5).
Analysis of practical judgment in older adults with epilepsy: An exploratory, multicenter cohort study
Authors: Zawar Ifrah , Reyes Anny , Arrotta Kayela , Lam Alice D. , Sarkis Rani , Hermann Bruce P. , Busch Robyn M. , Kapur Jaideep , Johnson Emily , Tavella‐Burka Sabrina , McDonald Carrie R. , Punia Vineet
Published: December 2024

Despite the high prevalence of cognitive deficits in older people with epilepsy (PWE), their ability to judge and make decisions in daily life remains unexplored. In 61 older PWE (55–90 years) from the multicenter BRain Aging and Cognition in Epilepsy (BrACE) study, we examined everyday judgment, as measured by the Test of Practical Judgment (TOP‐J: 9 questions, score range = 0–27; higher score = better judgment) and evaluated its association with clinical and demographic characteristics, global cognition, neuropsychological performance, subjective cognition, and quality of life (QOL). In our participants (mean age ± standard deviation [SD] = 66.3 ± 6.57 years; 57.4% female), >50% scored in the range observed in individuals with mild cognitive impairment (≤21) and 10% in the range similar to people with dementia (≤16). Multivariable analysis revealed that education was the only demographic factor associated with TOP‐J performance. Pearson correlation analysis revealed that lower TOP‐J scores were associated with lower global cognition, language, and abstraction/executive function. Lower TOP‐J scores were also associated with poorer QOL and self‐reported cognitive complaints. These data suggest that the TOP‐J may be a viable screening tool for early identification of reduced judgment. This could guide appropriate interventions in clinical practice, especially when older PWE present with deficits in language and executive function.
Biased manager aggressiveness, understated profits, tax pass‐through, and tax incidence in a differentiated duopoly
Authors: Wang Leonard F. S. , Wu Di , Ramani Vinay
Published: December 2024

In this paper, we examine the findings on tax pass‐through and tax incidence in a differentiated duopoly when the owner of each firm hires a biased manager. We first show that irrespective of the mode of product market competition, the tax pass‐through and tax incidence are higher when owners hire biased managers compared to the case of no delegation. We then consider the issue of tax pass‐through and tax incidence when the owners understate the profit to lower the tax liability. Surprisingly, we find that when firms understate their profit, hiring biased managers further amplifies the tax pass‐through and tax incidence under an ad valorem tax. However, the results remain the same under specific taxes.
Root Lodging Resistance in Maize (Zea mays L.) Under Conservative Strip‐Till Cultivation System
Authors: Sha Ye , Zhao Siyu , Hao Zhanhong , Liu Zheng , Hu Wenlang , Feng Guozhong , Chen Fanjun , Mi Guohua
Published: December 2024

Root lodging significantly affects maize yield and is influenced by both genotypes and soil characteristics. Strip‐till (ST) is a conservative cultivation method that disturbs only the planting strip, leaving the remaining soil undisturbed and covered with maize residues. Less is known about the effect of ST on root lodging. Here, a field experiment was conducted in Northeast China in 2020 and 2021 with 20 maize genotypes to study the relationship between root lodging and soil environment and root system architecture (RSA) under ST. Compared with conventional‐till (CT), in which the maize residues were cleared and the soil was cultivated using a rotary tiller, ST led to a smaller and narrower RSA, with crown root length reduced by 9.5% and crown root biomass reduced by 9.3%. Additionally, inter‐row root expansion angle and width were smaller by 5.3% and 17.3%, respectively. Despite these reductions, the root lodging rate in ST plants was significantly lower than in CT plants, with an absolute decrease of 25.5%. This enhanced resistance is attributed to the increased soil strength in the inter‐row, where the soil bulk density was 10.3% higher and the soil porosity was 10.2% lower in the 0–10 cm layer. Notably, certain maize genotypes, such as ZD958, developed a greater number of fine roots in the compacted inter‐row soil, showing a 66.4% increase compared to XY335 in the 0–12 cm soil layer. This trait contributed to improved resistance to root lodging. In conclusion, ST enhances root lodging resistance and offers opportunities to increase maize yield through optimised management practices, including the selection of high‐yielding cultivars with wide RSA.
Phase equilibria studies of the CaO–SbOx system in air
Authors: Li Shu , Wei Wenjie , Wang Guangyu , Weng Zemeng , Zhang Boya , Cao Zhanmin
Published: December 2024

The phase equilibria information of the CaO–SbOx system in the range of 700–1580°C in air was obtained for the first time using quenching method and thermal analysis. The equilibrium phase compositions were determined using x‐ray diffraction and Scanning Electron Microscopy‐Energy Dispersion Spectrum. The invariant reaction temperatures were determined using thermogravimetry‐differential scanning calorimetry. A perovskite solid solution between Ca2Sb2O7 and CaO, designated as (Ca6Sb2O11)s.s, was observed. Within this solid solution, three polymorphic forms were identified: orthorhombic, tetragonal, and cubic. The transition temperatures between these polymorphic forms vary with compositional changes. Additionally, the crystal structure of cubic Ca6Sb2O11 was analyzed. CaSb2O6 was observed to decompose into Ca2Sb2O7, Sb4O6, and O2 above 1336 ± 5°C. The eutectic temperature of α‐Sb2O4 and CaSb2O6 was found to be 1220 ± 5°C.
Influence of electron irradiation on self‐healing and thermal oxidation of SiC dispersed yttrium silicate composites
Authors: Nguyen Huong Thi , Kuo Yen‐Ling , Nanko Makoto , Thorogood Gordon James , Xu Alan , Do Thi Mai Dung , Suematsu Hisayuki
Published: December 2024

Electron irradiation‐induced acceleration of self‐healing and high‐temperature oxidation has been discovered in SiC/Y2Si2O7–Y2SiO5 composites. Bulk samples were produced by pulsed electric current sintering. These samples were exposed to an electron beam from the pulsed intense relativistic electron beam accelerator with a beam energy of 2 MeV at irradiation doses of 10–40 kGy. The self‐healing and high‐temperature oxidation experiments were carried out at 1100–1300°C for 1–24 h in laboratory air. Electron irradiation significantly improved the self‐healing effectiveness. The closure of surface cracks was caused by the volume expansion of SiC via transformation to SiO2 and the outward diffusion of Y3+ ions. Electron irradiation also increased the thickness of the internally oxidized zone, formed by the inward diffusion of O2− ions. Enhanced self‐healing and oxidation behavior were associated with defect formation induced by electron beam exposure, which facilitated the diffusion of ions within the crystal lattice.
Quantitative predicting physical and spectroscopic properties of silicate laser glasses using a phase diagram approach
Authors: Dong Shuangli , Wang Weichao , Zhang Qinyuan
Published: December 2024

Theoretical prediction of glass compositions with certain performance requirements is a long‐standing challenge in glass research. The difficulty lies in revealing the relationship of glass's composition–structure–property (C–S–P), and establishing a predictive calculation method for glass properties with high accuracy. Here we determine quantitatively the C–S–P relationships of four silicate laser glasses using nearest‐neighboring congruently melting compounds (CMCs) as “component and structural motifs”. For all studied silicate systems, physical properties such as density and refractive index are predicted with an error of less than 5%. Spectroscopic properties, including Judd–Ofelt parameters, fluorescence branching ratio (β), effective bandwidth (Δλeff), emission cross‐section (σe), gain bandwidth, and lifetime, are predicted with an error of less than 10%, with some properties such as β, Δλeff, and σe showing an error of less than 5% in specific systems. Four C–S–P databases have also been constructed, containing detailed physical and spectroscopic properties of over 1200 compositions, facilitating the optimization of glass composition. These findings highlight the significance of nearest‐neighboring CMCs in understanding and developing high‐performance laser glasses.
Rational optimizations of high K microwave dielectric ceramic Bi2(Li0.5Ta1.5)O7 toward LTCC applications
Authors: Xu Diming , Zhang Haowei , Pang Lixia , Hussain Fayaz , Zhou Tao , Sun Shi‐Kuan , Chen Zhijiao , Zhou Di
Published: December 2024

Microwave dielectric ceramics have drawn intensive interests in recent years due to the advanced development in communication area. High‐permittivity dielectric ceramics have thus become the highlight owing to dielectric ceramics with high permittivity could meet the demand of electronic components in both stabilization and miniaturization features. Bi2(Li0.5Ta1.5)O7 shows its great potential among various high‐permittivity dielectric ceramics with a suitable permittivity and a considerable quality factor. Based on previous studies, a series of rational optimizations were conducted on Bi2(Li0.5Ta1.5)O7 to manipulate the temperature coefficient of resonant frequency (TCF) and the sintering temperature for potential Low Temperature Co‐fired Ceramic (LTCC) applications. Two distinguished ceramics were obtained, Bi2(Li0.5Ta1.5)O7–0.03Bi2O3 (sintering temperature of 850°C, εr ∼ 64.1, Qf ∼ 8510 GHz, TCF—25.3 ppm/°C) and Bi2[(Li0.5Ta1.5)0.975Ti0.05]O7–0.015Bi2O3 (sintering temperature of 980°C, εr ∼ 66.2, Qf ∼ 10 950 GHz, TCF—8.5 ppm/°C). Dielectric resonator antenna (DRA) simulation was subsequently conducted and proved the ceramics holding excellent potential for microwave applications.