bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Signing documents: Accountability politics and racialized suspicion in Africa's development audits
Authors: Hird‐Younger Miriam , O'Sullivan Sarah
Published: May 2024

Good governance policies in international development require nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) to translate their programs into documents that render NGOs knowable and accountable to their donors. Drawing on multisited ethnographic fieldwork in Ghana and Uganda, we examine the signatures on these documents and the labor of NGO staff to obtain the signatures of aid recipients. We argue that signatures serve as mechanisms that NGO staff use to make their good governance practices traceable and to deter donor suspicion of funding misuse. Staff dedicate significant energy to imagining how signatures may or may not trigger donor suspicion. We posit that despite NGO staff's anxiety over getting signatures right—present, matching, and signed by the correct person—signatures can only ever defer donor suspicion. Such suspicion cannot be eliminated because it is deeply entrenched in racialized logics that position Global North donors as holding expertise and African NGOs as susceptible to corruption. Because NGO staff worry about donor suspicion rather than what aid recipients communicate with their (lack of) signatures, even fake signatures can circulate just as well as authentic ones. Tracing the social dynamics of collecting signatures sheds light on the racialized injustices inherent in Africa's development systems.
Harnessing Phytohormones: Advancing Plant Growth and Defence Strategies for Sustainable Agriculture
Authors: Ali Jamin , Mukarram Mohammad , Ojo James , Dawam Nancy , Riyazuddin Riyazuddin , Ghramh Hamed A. , Khan Khalid Ali , Chen Rizhao , Kurjak Daniel , Bayram Ahmet
Published: May 2024

Phytohormones, pivotal regulators of plant growth and development, are increasingly recognized for their multifaceted roles in enhancing crop resilience against environmental stresses. In this review, we provide a comprehensive synthesis of current research on utilizing phytohormones to enhance crop productivity and fortify their defence mechanisms. Initially, we introduce the significance of phytohormones in orchestrating plant growth, followed by their potential utilization in bolstering crop defences against diverse environmental stressors. Our focus then shifts to an in‐depth exploration of phytohormones and their pivotal roles in mediating plant defence responses against biotic stressors, particularly insect pests. Furthermore, we highlight the potential impact of phytohormones on agricultural production while underscoring the existing research gaps and limitations hindering their widespread implementation in agricultural practices. Despite the accumulating body of research in this field, the integration of phytohormones into agriculture remains limited. To address this discrepancy, we propose a comprehensive framework for investigating the intricate interplay between phytohormones and sustainable agriculture. This framework advocates for the adoption of novel technologies and methodologies to facilitate the effective deployment of phytohormones in agricultural settings and also emphasizes the need to address existing research limitations through rigorous field studies. By outlining a roadmap for advancing the utilization of phytohormones in agriculture, this review aims to catalyse transformative changes in agricultural practices, fostering sustainability and resilience in agricultural settings.
Plasticity and implications of water‐use traits in contrasting tropical tree species under climate change
Authors: Wittemann Maria , Mujawamariya Myriam , Ntirugulirwa Bonaventure , Uwizeye Felicien K. , Zibera Etienne , Manzi Olivier Jean Leonce , Nsabimana Donat , Wallin Göran , Uddling Johan
Published: May 2024

Plants face a trade‐off between hydraulic safety and growth, leading to a range of water‐use strategies in different species. However, little is known about such strategies in tropical trees and whether different water‐use traits can acclimate to warming.

We studied five water‐use traits in 20 tropical tree species grown at three different altitudes in Rwanda (RwandaTREE): stomatal conductance (gs), leaf minimum conductance (gmin), plant hydraulic conductance (Kplant), leaf osmotic potential (ψo) and net defoliation during drought. We also explored the links between these traits and growth and mortality data.

Late successional (LS) species had low Kplant, gs and gmin and, thus, low water loss, while low ψo helped improve leaf water status during drought. Early successional (ES) species, on the contrary, used more water during both moist and dry conditions and exhibited pronounced drought defoliation. The ES strategy was associated with lower mortality and more pronounced growth enhancement at the warmer sites compared to LS species. While Kplant and gmin showed downward acclimation in warmer climates, ψo did not acclimate and gs measured at prevailing temperature did not change.

Due to distinctly different water use strategies between successional groups, ES species may be better equipped for a warmer climate as long as defoliation can bridge drought periods.
Transcriptional reprogramming in sound‐treated Micro‐Tom plants inoculated with Pseudomonas syringae pv. tomatoDC3000
Authors: Calderón Antonio A. , Almagro Lorena , Martínez‐Calderón Andrés , Ferrer María A.
Published: May 2024

Sound vibrations (SV) are known to influence molecular and physiological processes that can improve crop performance and yield. In this study, the effects of three audible frequencies (100, 500 and 1000 Hz) at constant amplitude (90 dB) on tomato Micro‐Tom physiological responses were evaluated 1 and 3 days post‐treatment. Moreover, the potential use of SV treatment as priming agent for improved Micro‐Tom resistance to Pseudomonas syringae pv. tomato DC3000 was tested by microarray. Results showed that the SV‐induced physiological changes were frequency‐ and time‐dependent, with the largest changes registered at 1000 Hz at day 3. SV treatments tended to alter the foliar content of photosynthetic pigments, soluble proteins, sugars, phenolic composition, and the enzymatic activity of polyphenol oxidase, peroxidase, superoxide dismutase and catalase. Microarray data revealed that 1000 Hz treatment is effective in eliciting transcriptional reprogramming in tomato plants grown under normal conditions, but particularly after the infection with Pst DC3000. Broadly, in plants challenged with Pst DC3000, the 1000 Hz pretreatment provoked the up‐regulation of unique differentially expressed genes (DEGs) involved in cell wall reinforcement, phenylpropanoid pathway and defensive proteins. In addition, in those plants, DEGs associated with enhancing plant basal immunity, such as proteinase inhibitors, pathogenesis‐related proteins, and carbonic anhydrase 3, were notably up‐regulated in comparison with non‐SV pretreated, infected plants. These findings provide new insights into the modulation of Pst DC3000‐tomato interaction by sound and open up prospects for further development of strategies for plant disease management through the reinforcement of defense mechanisms in Micro‐Tom plants.
Prevalence and burden of difficult‐to‐treat and severe asthma in Australia: A national population survey
Authors: Davis Sharon R. , Ampon Rosario D. , Poulos Leanne M. , Lee Taehoon , Marks Guy B. , Toelle Brett G. , Reddel Helen K.
Published: May 2024

Background and Objective

Most evidence about difficult‐to‐treat and severe asthma (DTTA) comes from clinical trials and registries. We aimed to identify people with DTTA from a large nationally representative asthma population and describe their characteristics and healthcare utilization compared with people whose asthma was not ‘difficult‐to‐treat’.

Methods

We conducted a cross‐sectional survey of Australians aged ≥18 years with current asthma from large web‐based survey panels. Enrolment was stratified by gender, age‐group and state/territory based on national population data for people with asthma. Difficult‐to‐treat or severe asthma was defined by poor symptom control, exacerbations and/or oral corticosteroid/biologic use despite medium/high‐dose inhaled therapy. Outcomes included exacerbations, healthcare utilization, multimorbidity, quality of life and coronavirus disease of 2019 (COVID‐19)‐related behaviour. Weighted data were analysed using SAS version 9.4.

Results

The survey was conducted in February–March 2021. The weighted sample comprised 6048 adults with current asthma (average age 47.3 ± SD 18.1 years, 59.9% female), with 1313 (21.7%) satisfying ≥1 DTTA criteria. Of these, 50.4% had very poorly controlled symptoms (Asthma Control Test ≤15), 36.2% were current smokers, and 85.4% had ≥1 additional chronic condition, most commonly anxiety/depression. More than twice as many participants with DTTA versus non‐DTTA had ≥1 urgent general practitioner (GP) visit (61.4% vs. 27.5%, OR 4.8 [4.2–5.5, p < 0.0001]), or ≥1 emergency room visit (41.9% vs. 17.9%, OR 3.8 [3.3–4.4, p < 0.0001]) in the previous 12 months.

Conclusion

Our findings emphasize the burden of uncontrolled symptoms, current smoking, multimorbidity and healthcare utilization in people with DTTA in the community, who may be under‐represented in registries or clinical trials.
Suicidal ambivalence: A scoping review
Authors: Teismann Tobias , Siebert Annika Maria , Forkmann Thomas
Published: May 2024

Background

Suicidal ambivalence is considered a characteristic condition of suicidal individuals. At the same time, there is a lack of a uniform definition, conception and assessment of suicidal ambivalence. On this background, the current scoping review aims to explore the extent, range, and nature of research activity on suicidal ambivalence and to summarize research findings.

Methods

A systematic literature search was conducted in four different databases (PubMed, Psychinfo, Web of Science, and Google Scholar) using an array of search terms (e.g., ambivalence, internal suicide debate, reasons for living and reasons for dying, wish to live and wish to die).

Results

In total, 28 articles published between 1977 and 2023 were included in the scoping review. The study situation lacks a clear definition, conceptualization and operationalization of suicidal ambivalence. Nonetheless, suicidal ambivalence is a common experience in persons contemplating suicide and suicidal ambivalence seems to be present before, during and after a suicide attempt. Suicidal ambivalence is associated with diverse markers of negative/positive mental health as well as suicidal ideation and behavior.

Conclusion

Results point to the relevance of suicidal ambivalence. At the same time, there are large gaps in knowledge about the development, impact and therapeutic responsiveness of suicidal ambivalence.
The strength of a weak tie in the innovative performance of firms: A case of Korean high‐tech manufacturing small and medium‐sized enterprises
Authors: Hong Jinki , Lee Raehyung , Ohm Jay Y. , Lee Duk Hee
Published: May 2024

This study explores whether the ‘strength of weak ties’ theory, derived from social network theory, can equally apply to business activities. To address this question, we conduct an empirical analysis, utilising 3‐year panel data encompassing 3881 samples of Korean small and medium‐sized enterprises (SMEs) in the high‐tech manufacturing sector. The primary objective is to examine the effects of inter‐corporate tie strength on innovative performance. The results reveal an interesting pattern in high‐tech manufacturing corporations, where the strength of a tie demonstrates an inverted U‐shaped relationship with an SME's patent achievement. Moreover, we observe that the effect of tie strength on an SME's patent achievement is positively moderated by its research and development (R&D) intensity. Furthermore, when an SME maintains weak ties within its relationship with a large corporation, its innovative performance experiences a more positive impact than in cases where no relationship with a large corporation exists, or strong ties are maintained. These findings suggest that for SMEs, maintaining an appropriate level of embeddedness with large corporations is an effective strategy for generating sustained innovative performance within an environment characterised by active technological innovation and intense competition. The principal contribution of this paper lies in the empirical validation of the theory of weak ties concerning a firm's innovative performance.
The emergence of science teacher leadership in the context of the pursuit of teaching science for social justice
Authors: Lisy Emily , Campbell Todd , Park Byung‐Yeol
Published: May 2024

As a result of more recent events connected to the ongoing and lasting legacy of systemic racism in our society and the sparsity of research focused on both disciplinary teacher leadership (TL) and centering social justice and equity in teacher leadership literature reviews, this research investigated the ways in which science teacher leadership (STL) emerged in the context of a science department engaged in a year‐long professional learning experience aimed at teaching science for social justice. Drawing on a community of practice teacher leadership identity model as a theoretical framework and qualitative research methods, we sought to characterize STL that centered social justice. Written teacher reflections, semi‐structured interviews, and science lessons were collected from the six female science teachers and a female school administrator. The research revealed how STL supportive of teaching science for social justice was grounded in, among other characterizations of teacher leadership, competences like content and pedagogical knowledge, performances like inclusiveness and lesson design, and support from the structure of the year‐long professional learning, and engagement in a community of practice. This research provides insights into the complex characterization and emergence of STL.
Dynamics of cytomegalovirus‐specific T‐cell recovery in allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplant recipients using a commercially available flow cytometry assay: A pilot study
Authors: Jacobs Samantha E. , Ibrahim Uroosa , Vega Akasha Barreto , Lagdameo Jonathan , Callahan Jacquelyn , Govindarajulu Usha , Gitman Melissa , Levine John E. , Rana Meenakshi , Keyzner Alla
Published: May 2024

Background

Cytomegalovirus‐specific T‐cell‐mediated immunity (CMV‐CMI) protects from CMV infection in allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation (allo‐HCT), but to date, there is no validated measure of CMV immunity for this population.

Methods

In this prospective, observational, pilot study, CMV T‐cell responses were evaluated monthly and at onset of graft‐versus‐host disease (GVHD) or CMV infection in CMV‐seropositive allo‐HCT recipients using a commercial flow cytometry assay, the CMV inSIGHT T‐Cell Immunity Panel (CMV‐TCIP). The primary endpoint was the time to first positive CMV‐TCIP, defined as percentage of interferon‐γ‐producing CD4+ or CD8+ CMV‐specific T cells >0.2%. Letermovir was prescribed from day +10 to ≥100.

Results

Twenty‐eight allo‐HCT recipients were enrolled. The median time to first positive CMV‐TCIP result was earlier for CD4+ (60 days [interquartile range, IQR 33‒148]) than for CD8+ T cells (96 days [IQR 33‒155]) and longer for haploidentical and mismatched transplant recipients (77 and 96 days, respectively) than for matched donors (45 and 33 days, respectively). CD4+ and CD8+ CMV‐CMI recovery was sustained in 10/10 (100%) and 10/11 (91%) patients, respectively, without GVHD, whereas CD4+ and/or CD8+ CMV‐CMI was lost in 4/6 and 2/6 patients, respectively, with GVHD requiring steroids. As a predictor of clinically significant CMV infection in patients with low‐level CMV reactivation, the sensitivity and negative predictive value of CMV‐TCIP were 90% and 87.5%, respectively, for CD4+ CMV‐TCIP and 66.7% and 62.5%, respectively, for CD8+ CMV‐TCIP.

Conclusions

There was significant variability in time to CMV‐CMI recovery post‐HCT, with slower recovery after haploidentical and mismatched HCT. CD4+ CMV‐CMI may protect against CS‐CMVi, but immunity may be lost with GVHD diagnosis and treatment.

image
Pharmacology of drugs used in autoimmune dermatopathies in cats and dogs: A narrative review
Authors: Tham Heng L. , Davis Jennifer L.
Published: May 2024

Immunosuppressive drugs are the mainstay of treatment for many feline and canine autoimmune skin diseases, either as monotherapy or in combination with other drugs. Treatment with these drugs is often lifelong and may have long‐term consequences on the affected animal's overall quality‐of‐life. Clinicians need to understand the pharmacology of immunosuppressants in planning and executing the treatment regimen for the best possible clinical outcome, as well as reducing the risk of adverse effects. This review paper will focus on the mechanism of action, pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics, clinical uses and adverse effects of immunosuppressive drugs used to treat autoimmune dermatoses in cats and dogs. These include glucocorticoids, ciclosporin A, azathioprine, chlorambucil, mycophenolate mofetil, oclacitinib and Bruton's tyrosine kinase inhibitors.
The geometrically m$m$‐step solvable Grothendieck conjecture for affine hyperbolic curves over finitely generated fields
Authors: Yamaguchi Naganori
Published: May 2024

In this paper, we present some new results on the geometrically ‐step solvable Grothendieck conjecture in anabelian geometry. Specifically, we show the (weak bianabelian and strong bianabelian) geometrically ‐step solvable Grothendieck conjecture(s) for affine hyperbolic curves over fields finitely generated over the prime field. First of all, we show the conjecture over finite fields. Next, we show the geometrically ‐step solvable version of the Oda–Tamagawa good reduction criterion for hyperbolic curves. Finally, by using these two results, we show the conjecture over fields finitely generated over the prime field.
Delta‐points and their implications for the geometry of Banach spaces
Authors: Abrahamsen Trond A. , Aliaga Ramón J. , Lima Vegard , Martiny André , Perreau Yoël , Prochazka Antonín , Veeorg Triinu
Published: May 2024

We show that the Lipschitz‐free space with the Radon–Nikodým property and a Daugavet point recently constructed by Veeorg is in fact a dual space isomorphic to . Furthermore, we answer an open problem from the literature by showing that there exists a superreflexive space, in the form of a renorming of , with a ‐point. Building on these two results, we are able to renorm every infinite‐dimensional Banach space to have a ‐point. Next, we establish powerful relations between existence of ‐points in Banach spaces and their duals. As an application, we obtain sharp results about the influence of ‐points for the asymptotic geometry of Banach spaces. In addition, we prove that if is a Banach space with a shrinking ‐unconditional basis with , or if is a Hahn–Banach smooth space with a dual satisfying the Kadets–Klee property, then and its dual fail to contain ‐points. In particular, we get that no Lipschitz‐free space with a Hahn–Banach smooth predual contains ‐points. Finally, we present a purely metric characterization of the molecules in Lipschitz‐free spaces that are ‐points, and we solve an open problem about representation of finitely supported ‐points in Lipschitz‐free spaces.
Weak approximation on the norm one torus
Authors: Koymans P. , Rome N.
Published: May 2024

For any abelian group $A$, we prove an asymptotic formula for the number of $A$-extensions $K/\mathbb {Q}$ of bounded discriminant such that the associated norm one torus $R_{K/\mathbb {Q}}^1 \mathbb {G}_m$ satisfies weak approximation. We are also able to produce new results on the Hasse norm principle and to provide new explicit values for the leading constant in some instances of Malle's conjecture.
Spectral decomposition of genuine cusp forms over global function fields
Authors: Zhao Yifei
Published: May 2024

We prove the geometric Satake equivalence for étale metaplectic covers of reductive group schemes and extend the Langlands parametrization of V. Lafforgue to genuine cusp forms defined on their associated covering groups.
Uncertainty Quantification With Mixed Data by Hybrid Convolutional Neural Network for Additive Manufacturing
Authors: Yin Jianhua , Hu Zhen , Du Xiaoping
Published: May 2024

Surrogate models have become increasingly essential for replacing simulation models in additive manufacturing (AM) process analysis and design, particularly for assessing the impact of microstructural variations and process imperfections (aleatory uncertainty). However, these surrogate models can introduce predictive errors, introducing epistemic uncertainty. The challenge arises when dealing with image input data, which is inherently high-dimensional, making it challenging to apply existing uncertainty quantification (UQ) techniques effectively. To address this challenge, this study develops a new UQ methodology based on an existing concept of combining convolutional neural network (CNN) and Gaussian process (GP) regression (GPR). This CNN-GP method converts both numerical and image inputs into a unified, larger-sized image dataset, enabling direct dimension reduction with CNN. Subsequently, GPR constructs the surrogate model, not only providing predictions but also quantifying the associated model uncertainty. This approach ensures that the surrogate model considers both input-related aleatory uncertainty and model-related epistemic uncertainty when it is used for prediction, enhancing confidence in image-based AM simulations and informed decision-making. Three examples validate the high accuracy and effectiveness of the proposed method.
Numerical ellipsometry: Artificial intelligence for rapid analysis of indium tin oxide films on silicon
Authors: Urban F. K. , Barton D.
Published: May 2024

Ellipsometry is a well-known material analytical method widely used to measure thickness and optical properties of thin films and surfaces across a wide range of industrial and research applications including critical dimensions in chipmaking. The method employs the fact that light undergoes a change in polarization state upon reflection from or transmission through a material. The desired properties of the surface structure are related to measurements by the electromagnetic models expressed by Maxwell’s equations as well as models of material properties. The work here demonstrates the use of artificial intelligence in the form of a multilayer perceptron artificial neural network to apply the electromagnetic model. The reflecting surface examined here is composed of indium tin oxide (ITO) films approximately 400 nm in thickness deposited on silicon substrates. Solutions are provided by 299 artificial neural networks, one per wavelength from 210 to 1700 nm across which ITO exhibits transparent as well as absorbing characteristics. Thus, it serves as a proxy for a wide range of other materials. To train the network, simulated measurements are computed at two thicknesses which differ randomly by 1–6 nm and at three different incidence angles of 55°, 65°, and 75°. Following training, results are obtained in less than one second on a conventional desktop computer.
Athletes’ Perspectives of the Classification System in Para Alpine Skiing for Those With Visual Impairment
Authors: Douglas Sara M. , Kitchin Paul J. , Jackson Andrew J. , Barrett Brendan T. , Little Julie-Anne
Published: May 2024

This study explored the classification experiences and views of Para Alpine skiers with visual impairment. Data from 11  interviews were analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis to generate three themes: Suitability—The skiers questioned the suitability of the visual measurements, testing environment, and the information they received regarding classification; Exclusivity—Skiers felt certain aspects of the system remain exclusive due to the restrictions of sport classes and lack of the athlete voice; and (Dis)trust—Skiers felt distrust in those implementing the system and in other athletes due to intentional misrepresentation. Speculation surrounding this resulted in the skiers’ feeling doubt in their own classification. While there is not a “one size fits all” approach to classification, understanding skiers’ experiences can be a vital first step and will help to guide future research into the evolution of this sport’s classification.
Genomic characterization of
Staphylococcus aureus
isolated from patients admitted to intensive care units of a tertiary care hospital: epidemiological risk of nasal carriage of virulent clone during admission
Authors: Inagawa Takahiro , Hisatsune Junzo , Kutsuno Shoko , Iwao Yasuhisa , Koba Yumiko , Kashiyama Seiya , Ota Kohei , Shime Nobuaki , Sugai Motoyuki
Published: May 2024

We conducted a molecular epidemiological study of
Staphylococcus aureus
using whole-genome sequence data and clinical data of isolates from nasal swabs of patients admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) of Hiroshima University hospital. The relationship between isolate genotypes and virulence factors, particularly for isolates that caused infectious diseases during ICU admission was compared with those that did not. The nasal carriage rates of methicillin-resistant
S. aureus
(MRSA) and methicillin-susceptible
S. aureus
(MSSA) in patients admitted to the ICU were 7.0% and 20.1%, respectively. The carriage rate of community-acquired (CA)-MRSA was 2.3%, accounting for 32.8% of all MRSA isolates. Whole-genome sequencing analysis of the MRSA isolates indicated that most, including CA-MRSA and healthcare-associated (HA)-MRSA, belonged to clonal complex (CC) 8 [sequence type (ST) 8] and SCC
mec
type IV. Furthermore, results for three disease foci (pneumonia, skin and soft tissue infection, and deep abscess) and the assessment of virulence factor genes associated with disease conditions [bacteremia, acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), disseminated intravascular coagulopathy (DIC), and septic shock] suggested that nasal colonization of
S. aureus
clones could represent a risk for patients within the ICU. Particularly, MRSA/J and MSSA/J may be more likely to cause deep abscess infection; ST764 may cause ventilation-associated pneumonia, hospital-acquired pneumonia and subsequent bacteremia, and ARDS, and
tst-1
-positive isolates may cause DIC onset.

IMPORTANCE

Nasal colonization of MRSA in patients admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) may predict the development of MRSA infections. However, no bacteriological data are available to perform risk assessments for
Staphylococcus aureus
infection onset. In this single-center 2-year genomic surveillance study, we analyzed all
S. aureus
isolates from nasal swabs of patients admitted to the ICU and those from the blood or lesions of in-patients who developed infectious diseases in the ICU. Furthermore, we identified the virulent clones responsible for causing infectious diseases in the ICU. Herein, we report several virulent clones present in the nares that are predictive of invasive infections. This information may facilitate the design of preemptive strategies to identify and eradicate virulent MRSA strains, reducing nosocomial infections within the ICU.
Deep-time thermal history of the Great Unconformity in the Grand Canyon, USA: Combined zircon (U-Th)/He and K-feldspar 40Ar/39Ar thermochronometers
Authors: Thurston O.G. , Guenthner W.R. , Karlstrom K.E. , Heizler M.T. , Ricketts J.W. , McDannell K.T.
Published: May 2024

Deep-time thermochronology by the zircon (U-Th)/He (ZHe) method is an emerging field of study with promise for constraining Precambrian rock thermal and exhumation histories. The Grand Canyon provides an opportunity to further explore this method because excellent geologic constraints can be integrated with multiple thermochronometers to address important questions about the spatial variability of basement erosion below the sub-Cambrian Great Unconformity composite erosional surface. In this study, we synthesize new ZHe results (n = 26) and published (n = 77) ZHe data with new K-feldspar 40Ar/39Ar data and models (n = 4) from Precambrian basement rocks of the Grand Canyon, USA. We use HeFTy and QTQt thermal history modeling to evaluate the ability of the individual ZHe and K-feldspar 40Ar/39Ar thermochronometric data sets to resolve Precambrian thermal histories and compare those results with jointly modeled data using the QTQt software. We also compare Precambrian basement thermal histories of the eastern and western Grand Canyon, where the eastern Grand Canyon has ~4 km of Grand Canyon Supergroup strata deposited and preserved, and the western Grand Canyon, where the Supergroup was either never deposited or not preserved. In all locations, models constrained only by ZHe data have limited resolving power for the past ~600 m.y., compared to models that combine K-feldspar 40Ar/39Ar and ZHe data, which extends the recorded history into the Mesoproterozoic. Our model results suggest that two regional basement unroofing events occurred. A ca. 1350–1250 Ma cooling event is interpreted to record basement exhumation from depths of ~10 km, and a second cooling episode (~200–100 °C total) records exhumation from a depth of ~3 km to 7 km to near-surface conditions between ca. 600 Ma and 500 Ma. Easternmost Grand Canyon models suggest that the preserved maximum ~4 km thickness of the Grand Canyon Supergroup (with burial heating at ~100 °C) approximates the total original Mesoproterozoic and Neoproterozoic stratal thickness. Whether these Supergroup rocks were present and then eroded in the western Grand Canyon, as suggested by regional geologic studies, or were never deposited is not constrained by thermochronological data.
Supplemental Material: New discovery of 3.84–3.64 Ga diverse granitoids in eastern Hebei, North China Craton: Petrogenesis and significance
Authors: Dong Chunyan , Wan Yusheng , et al.
Published: May 2024

Supplemental Texts S1–S3, Figures S1–S3, and Tables S1–S5.
OCT analysis of preoperative foveal microstructure in recent-onset macula-off rhegmatogenous retinal detachment: visual acuity prognostic factors
Authors: Savastano Maria Cristina , Carlà Matteo Mario , Giannuzzi Federico , Fossataro Claudia , Cestrone Valentina , Boselli Francesco , Biagini Ilaria , Beccia Flavia , Raffaele Quatrale , Gravina Gianni , Rizzo Clara , Savastano Alfonso , Rizzo Stanislao
Published: May 2024

Background

To evaluate, in patients undergoing macula-off rhegmatogenous retinal detachment surgery (RRD), the correlation between preoperative optical coherence tomography (OCT) morphological features and postoperative visual acuity.

Methods

Retrospective interventional non-randomised clinical trial on 89 eyes of 89 patients undergoing pars plana vitrectomy for macula-off primary RRD at Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli from 2020 to 2023. Preoperative 6×6 mm OCT B scans with Nidek Mirante (Nidek, Gamagori, Japan) were performed, collecting the following features: foveal involvement (fovea-on vs fovea-off), subretinal hyper-reflective points (HRPs), outer retinal corrugations (ORCs) and intraretinal cystic spaces (ICS) in the outer nuclear layer. The patients were followed in a 6-month follow-up to evaluate best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) outcomes.

Results

Preoperative mean BCVA was 0.15±0.22 and improved to 0.29±0.3 decimals at 6 months (p<0.001). The presence of subretinal HRPs showed a significant negative impact on BCVA improvement in the univariate regression analysis (r=−0.264, p=0.024), as well as the presence of foveal detachment (r=−0.355, p=0.012). The other OCT features did not show a significant correlation with BCVA improvement: ORCs (r=0.072, p=0.257) and ICS (r=−0.020, p=0.734). In the multivariate regression analysis, the negative impact of foveal detachment was confirmed (r=−0.199, p=0.05) while the statistical significance of subretinal HRPs was lost (r=−0.135, p=0.105).

Conclusions

The negative impact of foveal involvement in a macula-off RRD was confirmed. Moreover, the presence of subretinal HRPs, as a possible indirect marker of inflammatory response extent, may act as a negative predictor for postoperative visual recover.

Trial registration number

NCT05747144.
Effective multi-sectoral approach for rapid reduction in maternal and neonatal mortality: the exceptional case of Bangladesh
Authors: Tasnim Hossain Aniqa , Hazel Elizabeth A. , Rahman Ahmed Ehsanur , Koon Adam D. , Jue Wong Heather , Maïga Abdoulaye , Akseer Nadia , Tam Yvonne , Walker Neff , Jiwani Safia S. , Munos Melinda Kay , El Arifeen Shams , Black Robert , Amouzou Agbessi
Published: May 2024

Background

Bangladesh experienced impressive reductions in maternal and neonatal mortality over the past several decades with annual rates of decline surpassing 4% since 2000. We comprehensively assessed health system and non-health factors that drove Bangladesh’s success in mortality reduction.

Methods

We operationalised a comprehensive conceptual framework and analysed available household surveys for trends and inequalities in mortality, intervention coverage and quality of care. These include 12 household surveys totalling over 1.3 million births in the 15 years preceding the surveys. Literature and desk reviews permitted a reconstruction of policy and programme development and financing since 1990. These were supplemented with key informant interviews to understand implementation decisions and strategies.

Results

Bangladesh prioritised early population policies to manage its rapidly growing population through community-based family planning programmes initiated in mid-1970s. These were followed in the 1990s and 2000s by priority to increase access to health facilities leading to rapid increases in facility delivery, intervention coverage and access to emergency obstetric care, with large contribution from private facilities. A decentralised health system organisation, from communities to the central level, openness to private for-profit sector growth, and efficient financing allocation to maternal and newborn health enabled rapid progress. Other critical levers included poverty reduction, women empowerment, rural development, and culture of data generation and use. However, recent empirical data suggest a slowing down of mortality reductions.

Conclusion

Bangladesh demonstrated effective multi-sectoral approach and persistent programming, testing and implementation to achieve rapid gains in maternal and neonatal mortality reduction. The slowing down of recent mortality trends suggests that the country will need to revise its strategies to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals. As fertility reached replacement level, further gains in maternal and neonatal mortality will require prioritising universal access to quality facility delivery, and addressing inequalities, including reaching the rural poor.
Making the health system work for over 25 million births annually: drivers of the notable decline in maternal and newborn mortality in India
Authors: Bhushan Himanshu , Ram Usha , Scott Kerry , Blanchard Andrea Katryn , Kumar Prakash , Agarwal Ritu , Washington Reynold , Ramesh Banadakoppa Manjappa
Published: May 2024

Introduction

India’s progress in reducing maternal and neonatal mortality since the 1990s was faster than the regional average. We systematically analysed how national health policies, services for maternal and newborn health, and socioeconomic contextual changes, drove these mortality reductions.

Methods

The study’s mixed-methods design integrated quantitative trend analyses of mortality, intervention coverage and equity since the 1990s, using the sample registration system and national surveys, with interpretive understandings from policy documents and 13 key informant interviews.

Results

India’s maternal mortality ratio (MMR) declined from 412 to 103 maternal deaths per 100 000 live births between 1997–1998 and 2017–2019. The neonatal mortality rate (NMR) declined from 46 to 22 per 1000 live births between 1997 and 2019. The average annual rate of mortality reduction increased over time. During this period, coverage of any antenatal care (57%–94%), quality antenatal care (37%–85%) and institutional delivery (34%–90%) increased, as did caesarean section rates among the poorest tertile (2%–9%); these coverage gains occurred primarily in the government (public) sector. The fastest rates for increasing coverage occurred during 2005–2012.

The 2005–2012 National Rural Health Mission (which became the National Health Mission in 2012) catalysed bureaucratic innovations, additional resources, pro-poor commitments and accountability. These efforts occurred alongside smaller family sizes and improvements in macroeconomic growth, mobile and road networks, women’s empowerment, and nutrition. These together reduced high-risk births and improved healthcare access, particularly among the poor.

Conclusion

Rapid reduction in NMR and MMR in India was accompanied by increased coverage of maternal and newborn health interventions. Government programmes strengthened public sector services, thereby expanding the reach of these interventions. Simultaneously, socioeconomic and demographic shifts led to fewer high-risk births. The study’s integrated methodology is relevant for generating comprehensive knowledge to advance universal health coverage.
A phase I trial of accelerated intermittent theta burst rTMS for amnestic MCI
Authors: Aghamoosa Stephanie , Lopez James , Rbeiz Katrina , Fleischmann Holly H , Horn Olivia , Madden Katrina , Caulfield Kevin A , Antonucci Michael U , Revuelta Gonzalo , McTeague Lisa M , Benitez Andreana
Published: May 2024

Background

Emerging evidence suggests that repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) enhances cognition in mild cognitive impairment (MCI). Accelerated intermittent theta burst stimulation (iTBS) rTMS protocols are promising as they substantially reduce burden by shortening the treatment course, but the safety, feasibility, and acceptability of iTBS have not been established in MCI.

Methods

24 older adults with amnestic MCI (aMCI) due to possible Alzheimer’s disease enrolled in a phase I trial of open-label accelerated iTBS to the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (8 stimulation sessions of 600 pulses of iTBS/day for 3 days). Participants rated common side effects during and after each session and retrospectively (at post-treatment and 4-week follow-up). They completed brain MRI (for safety assessments and electric field modeling), neuropsychiatric evaluations, and neuropsychological testing before and after treatment; a subset of measures was administered at follow-up.

Results

Retention was high (95%) and there were no adverse neuroradiological, neuropsychiatric, or neurocognitive effects of treatment. Participants reported high acceptability, minimal side effects, and low desire to quit despite some rating the treatment as tiring. Electric field modeling data suggest that all participants received safe and therapeutic cortical stimulation intensities. We observed a significant, large effect size (d=0.98) improvement in fluid cognition using the NIH Toolbox Cognition Battery from pre-treatment to post-treatment.

Conclusions

Our findings support the safety, feasibility, and acceptability of accelerated iTBS in aMCI. In addition, we provide evidence of target engagement in the form of improved cognition following treatment. These promising results directly inform future trials aimed at optimizing treatment parameters.

Trial registration number

NCT04503096.
Improvement of a hypoplastic model for sand under undrained loading conditions
Authors: Liao Dong , Hu Xunjian , Wang Shun , Zhou Chao
Published: May 2024

An important drawback of the hypoplastic model is the inaccurate prediction of the sand behavior under undrained monotonic loading conditions. The model is not able to reproduce the limited liquefaction type response widely observed in undrained tests on loose sand, and it often underestimates the initial stiffness and hardening rate of sand during the shearing. To address these issues, three novel modifications are introduced into a basic hypoplastic model to enhance its undrained predictive capability. Firstly, a new factor is added to the nonlinear term of the model, allowing the simulation of a purely elastic response at the beginning of loading. By doing so, the model can accurately capture the initial stiffness and undrained effective stress path of sand. Secondly, the characterized void ratios are related to an evolving state variable, enabling the model to reasonably reproduce the limited flow response and quasi-steady state. Furthermore, a new term is incorporated into the deviatoric part of the strain rate to adjust the hardening rate of the model. The model performance for undrained loading is significantly improved through the above modifications, as evidenced by the good agreement between simulation results and experimental data for tests with varying densities and confining pressures.
Submarine geomorphology of a glaciated active margin, British Columbia, Canada
Authors: Shaw John , Boggild K. , Li Z. , Eamer J. , Stacey C.D.
Published: May 2024

Based on high-resolution multibeam-sonar data and low-resolution (GEBCO) bathymetry data, we classify the geomorphology of Canada’s Pacific margin within the four bioregions designated by Fisheries and Oceans Canada for management of biological resources. We designate 14 units. Nine continental shelf units are fiords, bedrock terrain, offshore banks, Haida Gwaii platform, Haida Gwaii shelf, Vancouver Island shelf, incised shelf, glacial trough, and major delta. On the continental slope, we identify the canyon zone, the accretionary wedge (off Vancouver Island), and the transform (Queen Charlotte Fault) terrain. The abyssal zone is treated as a single unit with two components: seafloor-spreading terrain, and abyssal plain with fans, seamounts, and channels. Hexactinellid sponge reefs of various morphologies are found in three of the continental shelf geomorphic units and cover up to 10% of the seafloor in the glacial trough category. Examples based on multibeam sonar imagery are used to display the chief characteristics of the 14 units, as well as the geomorphic diversity within them. Compared with Canada's east-coast glaciated passive margin, geomorphic similarities include: (1) the panoply of glacial landforms and (2) shelf terrain dissected by sub-glacial meltwater. Major differences include: (1) the presence of unique “tectonic” terrains on the Pacific continental slopes; (2) hexactinellid sponge bioherm reefs that are unique to the Pacific margin; (3) the absence of glacio-tectonic terrains on the Pacific shelves; and (4) the absence of “classic” trough-mouth fans on the Pacific margin.
Production of $$D_{s0}(2590)^+$$ in B nonleptonic decays
Authors: Wang Shuang-Tao , Pei Su-Yan , Wang Tianhong , Wang Guo-Li
Published: May 2024

In 2021, a new charm-strange meson, $$D_{s0}(2590)^+$$

D

s
0

(
2590
)

+

, was discovered, which is believed to be the $$D_s^+(2^1S_0)$$

D
s
+

(

2
1

S
0

)

. However, its low mass and wide width are challenged by theoretical results. Given the small branching ratio of the current production channel, resulting in a small number of events and large errors, we suggest searching for the $$D_{s0}(2590)^+$$

D

s
0

(
2590
)

+

in the B meson nonleptonic decays, $$B_q\rightarrow D^{(*)}_qD_{s0}(2590)^+$$

B
q

→

D
q

(

∗
)

D

s
0

(
2590
)

+

($$q=u,d$$

q
=
u
,
d

), followed by $$D_{s0}(2590)^+\rightarrow D^*K$$

D

s
0

(
2590
)

+

→

D
∗

K

. We find that $$Br(B_q\rightarrow D^{(*)}_qD_{s0}(2590)^+)\times Br(D_{s0}(2590)^+\rightarrow D^{*}K)=(2.16\sim 2.82)\times 10^{-3}$$

B
r

(

B
q

→

D
q

(

∗
)

D

s
0

(
2590
)

+

)

×
B
r

(

D

s
0

(
2590
)

+

→

D

∗

K
)

=

(
2.16
∼
2.82
)

×

10

-
3

is very large, and the result is not sensitive to the mass of $$D_{s0}(2590)^+$$

D

s
0

(
2590
)

+

. Due to the large branching ratio, numerous $$D_{s0}(2590)^+$$

D

s
0

(
2590
)

+

events are expected. This study is based on the framework of the instantaneous Bethe–Salpeter equation, and the relativistic wave functions used for mesons contain different partial waves. The contributions of the different partial waves are also studied.
Security Analysis of the Consumer Remote SIM Provisioning Protocol
Authors: Ahmed Abu Shohel , Peltonen Aleksi , Sethi Mohit , Aura Tuomas
Published: May 2024

Remote SIM provisioning (RSP) for consumer devices is the protocol specified by the GSM Association for downloading SIM profiles into a secure element in a mobile device. The process is commonly known as eSIM, and it is expected to replace removable SIM cards. The security of the protocol is critical because the profile includes the credentials with which the mobile device will authenticate to the mobile network. In this article, we present a formal security analysis of the consumer RSP protocol. We model the multi-party protocol in applied pi calculus, define formal security goals, and verify them in ProVerif. The analysis shows that the consumer RSP protocol protects against a network adversary when all the intended participants are honest. However, we also model the protocol in realistic partial compromise scenarios where the adversary controls a legitimate participant or communication channel. The security failures in the partial compromise scenarios reveal weaknesses in the protocol design. The most important observation is that the security of RSP depends unnecessarily on it being encapsulated in a TLS tunnel. Also, the lack of pre-established identifiers means that a compromised download server anywhere in the world or a compromised secure element can be used for attacks against RSP between honest participants. Additionally, the lack of reliable methods for verifying user intent can lead to serious security failures. Based on the findings, we recommend practical improvements to RSP implementations, future versions of the specification, and mobile operator processes to increase the robustness of eSIM security.
Denoising Method for MRI Images Using Modified BM3D Filter with Complex Network and Artificial Neural Networks
Authors: Han Trong-Thanh , Nguyen Van Hinh , Nguyen Huu Phat
Published: May 2024

Noise is an undesirable and disturbing effect that degrades the quality of an image. The importance of noise reduction in images and its wide-ranging applications are essential. Most popular image noise filters rely on static parameters that are often challenging to fine-tune. Dynamically adapting these static parameters for image noise filters is a critical area of research. In this study, a combination model between the features of complex networks and artificial neural networks is proposed to automatically find the noise reduction parameter of the block-matching and 3D filtering method. Experimental results on the black and white MRI image set have shown that the model correctly predicted the parameters of the BM3D filter and removed the noise in the images of those MRI images. The model gave high denoising results with PSNR of 51.94 and SSIM of 0.998.