bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Non‐π‐Conjugated Molecular Crystal with Balanced Second‐Harmonic Generation, Bandgap, and Birefringence
Authors: Zhou Yang , He Nan , Lin Zheshuai , Shang Xiaoying , Chen Xueyuan , Li Yanqiang , Huang Weiqi , Hong Maochun , Zhao Sangen , Luo Junhua
Published: September 2023

Traditional nonlinear optical (NLO) crystals are exclusively limited to ionic crystals with π‐conjugated groups and it is a great challenge to achieve a subtle balance between second‐harmonic generation, bandgap, and birefringence for them, especially in the deep‐UV spectrum region (Eg > 6.20 eV). Herein, a non‐π‐conjugated molecular crystal, NH3BH3, which realizes such balance with a large second‐harmonic generation response (2.0 × KH2PO4 at 1064 nm, and 0.45 × β‐BaB2O4 at 532 nm), deep‐UV transparency (Eg > 6.53 eV), and moderate birefringence (Δn = 0.056@550 nm) is reported. As a result, NH3BH3 exhibits a large quality factor of 0.32, which is evidently larger than those of non‐π‐conjugated sulfate and phosphate ionic crystals. Using an unpolished NH3BH3 crystal, effective second‐harmonic generation outputs are observed at different wavelengths. These attributes indicate that NH3BH3 is a promising candidate for deep‐UV NLO applications. This work opens up a new door for developing high‐performance deep‐UV NLO crystals.
A‐D‐A Type Nonfullerene Acceptors Synthesized by Core Segmentation and Isomerization for Realizing Organic Solar Cells with Low Nonradiative Energy Loss
Authors: Zhu Jintao , Qin Zixuan , Lan Ai , Jiang Shanshan , Mou Jiayou , Ren Yong , Do Hainam , Chen Zhi‐Kuan , Chen Fei
Published: September 2023

Reducing non‐radiative recombination energy loss (ΔEnonrad) in organic solar cells (OSCs) has been considered an effective method to improve device efficiency. In this study, the backbone of PTBTT‐4F/4Cl is divided into D1‐D2‐D3 segments and reconstructed. The isomerized TPBTT‐4F/4Cl obtains stronger intramolecular charge transfer (ICT), thus leading to elevated highest occupied molecular orbital (HOMO) energy level and reduced bandgap (Eg). According to ELoss = Eg–qVOC, the reduced Eg and enhanced open circuit voltage (VOC) result in lower ELoss, indicating that ELoss has been effectively suppressed in the TPBTT‐4F/4Cl based devices. Furthermore, compared to PTBTT derivatives, the isomeric TPBTT derivatives exhibit more planar molecular structure and closer intermolecular stacking, thus affording higher crystallinity of the neat films. Therefore, the reduced energy disorder and corresponding lower Urbach energy (Eu) of the TPBTT‐4F/4Cl blend films lead to low ELoss and high charge‐carrier mobility of the devices. As a result, benefitting from synergetic control of molecular stacking and energetic offsets, a maximum power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 15.72% is realized from TPBTT‐4F based devices, along with a reduced ΔEnonrad of 0.276 eV. This work demonstrates a rational method of suppressing VOC loss and improving the device performance through molecular design engineering by core segmentation and isomerization.
Single Ru Sites on Covalent Organic Framework‐Coated Carbon Nanotubes for Highly Efficient Electrocatalytic Hydrogen Evolution
Authors: Sun Xuzhuo , Hu Yanping , Fu Yuying , Yang Jing , Song Dengmeng , Li Bo , Xu Wenhua , Wang Ning
Published: September 2023

Covalent organic frameworks (COFs) with precisely controllable structures and highly ordered porosity possess great potential as electrocatalysts for hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). However, the catalytic performance of pristine COFs is limited by the poor active sites and low electron transfer. Herein, to address these issues, the conductive carbon nanotubes (CNTs) are coated by a defined structure RuBpy(H2O)(OH)Cl2 in bipyridine‐based COF (TpBpy). And this composite with single site Ru incorporated can be used as HER electrocatalyst in alkaline conditions. A series of crucial issues are carefully discussed through experiments and density functional theory (DFT) calculations, such as the coordination structure of the atomically dispersion Ru ions, the catalytic mechanism of the embedded catalytic site, and the effect of COF and CNTs on the electrocatalytic properties. According to DFT calculations, the embedded single sites Ru act as catalytic sites for H2 generation. Benefitting from increasing the catalyst conductivity and the charge transfer, the as‐prepared c‐CNT‐0.68@TpBpy‐Ru shows an excellent HER overpotential of 112 mV at 10 mA cm−2 under alkaline conditions as well as an excellent durability up to 12 h, which is superior to that of most of the reported COFs electrocatalysts in alkaline solution.
Exploratory study of existing research on software requirements prioritization: A systematic literature review
Authors: Yaseen Muhammad
Published: September 2023

Requirements prioritization is giving priority to software requirements on the basis of its importance. The current research paper addresses the importance and limitations of existing research on requirements prioritization. A lot of requirements prioritization techniques are presented by authors, but these techniques have certain limitations. Not all techniques are either applied or suitable to prioritize all types of requirements. Similarly, in these techniques, only few are scalable for large size requirements. The objective of the current research is to identify all possible software requirements prioritization techniques and to show the suitability of these techniques to prioritize different types and sizes of requirements. To achieve research objectives, a systematic literature review (SLR) is carried out. In conducting SLR, planned protocol is designed, which include all the necessary steps necessary for SLR process. As a result of SLR, 60 primary studies were selected for data extraction as a result of SLR. Outcome of SLR shows that not all techniques are scalable to prioritize any size requirements. Also, there are few techniques found that are either applied on all types of requirements or not suitable to prioritize all types of requirements as these techniques are specifically designed for particular types of requirements.
Thioacetamide‐Assisted Crystallization of Lead‐Free Perovskite Solar Cells for Improved Efficiency and Stability
Authors: Bobba Raja Sekhar , Ghimire Nabin , Faheem M. Bilal , Mabrouk Sally , Baniya Abiral , Narwal Nisika , Zhang Yuchen , Kaswekar Poojan Indrajeet , Li Hansheng , Saud Madan Bahadur , Kumar Mukesh , Qiao Quinn
Published: September 2023

Perovskite solar cells (PSCs) have made great strides in recent years, operating inside the theoretical Scholkely–Quisser efficiency limit with a certified power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 26.1%. However, lead toxicity from Pb‐based PSCs can harm the environment. As a result, the search for nontoxic and environmentally friendly substances to replace Pb in perovskites is the need of the hour. Tin has emerged as the most viable choice to replace Pb, due to its favorable electronic properties and smaller bandgaps of Sn‐based perovskites between 1.1 and 1.4 eV, strong charge carrier mobility, and high theoretical efficiency of 32%. Sn vacancies and point defects, on the other hand, are easily produced in Sn perovskites, leading to nonradiative recombination. Furthermore, interfacial flaws and traps impede further performance improvement. In this research, to produce high‐quality Pb‐free perovskites for high‐performance PSCs, a Lewis‐base thioacetamide (TAA) is added to the simple FASnI3 perovskite solution. FASnI3 and TAA additive‐based films effectively control perovskite film crystallinity and grain size via Lewis acid–base reaction. The champion FASnI3 + TAA‐based PSC achieves a maximum PCE of 10.67% while paving a facile way for other compositional perovskite analogues to be integrated into highly efficient and operationally stable PSCs.
Serum/Faecal S100A12, CRP and lactoferrin can be used to distinguish ınfectious and non‐ınfectious canine diarrhoea
Authors: Maden Mehmet , Gülersoy Erdem
Published: September 2023

Objectives

This study aimed to evaluate the diagnostic efficacies of selected inflammatory and intestinal biomarkers in cases of infectious and non‐infectious diarrhoea in dogs.

Methods

A total of 60 dogs, 12 healthy (Control Group) and 48 with diarrhoea were used. Viral, Bacterial, Parasitic (infectious) and Nutritional diarrhoea (non‐infectious) subgroups (n: 12) were formed according to the aetiology, on the basis of clinical and laboratory examinations. Selected inflammatory and intestinal biomarkers (Calgranulin, S100A12; Lactoferrin, LCTF; C‐reactive protein, CRP) were measured both in serum and faecal samples.

Results

Compared to the Control and Nutritional Diarrhoea groups, the infectious diarrhoea groups had higher serum S100A12, LCTF, CRP, blood urea nitrogen, creatinine (CR), alanine transaminase and alkaline phosphatase, and lower glucose (GLU), sodium (Na) and potassium (K) concentrations (p < 0.05); Viral and Parasitic Diarrhoea groups had lower serum albumin (ALB) and total protein (TP) concentrations (p < 0.05). Faecal S100A12, LCTF and CRP concentrations were higher in infectious diarrhoea groups compared to the Control and Nutritional Diarrhoea groups (p < 0.05). Faecal LCTF and CRP concentrations were higher in the Bacterial Diarrhoea group than in the Viral and Parasitic Diarrhoea groups (p < 0.05).

Clinical significance

It was determined that serum (area under curve, AUC: 0.842 and 0.956) and faecal (AUC: 0.975 and 0.786) S100A12 and CRP concentrations in viral diarrhoea; serum (AUC: 0.956) and faecal (AUC: 0.992) LCTF concentrations in bacterial diarrhoea have diagnostic values in the diagnosis of the presence of intestinal inflammation and damage and can be used in the differential diagnosis of infectious and non‐infectious diarrhoea.
Precise description of medium-induced emissions
Authors: Isaksen Johannes Hamre , Tywoniuk Konrad
Published: September 2023

Abstract

We study jet fragmentation via final-state parton splittings in the medium. These processes are usually calculated theoretically by invoking the large-Nc limit. In this paper we perform the first computation of a 1 → 2 parton splitting in a thermal medium at finite numbers of colors Nc, for arbitrary momentum-sharing fraction z and with full transverse dynamics. We show how the problem can be transformed into a system of coupled Schrödinger equations, that we solve numerically. The novel numerical results are used to estimate the accuracy of several widely used approximations. We check the error introduced while going from finite Nc (i.e. Nc = 3) to the large-Nc limit, which we find to be small. For unbalanced splittings, e.g. when z → 0, only one of the partons is affected by transverse momentum exchanges with the medium. The emission process then separates into a term responsible for the 1 → 2 splitting and the subsequent independent broadening of the daughter partons. This is also referred to as the factorizable term. For finite z, further contributions arise that are responsible for the coherent color dynamics of the two-parton system, and these are referred to as non-factorizable terms. These were argued to be small for soft (unbalanced) splittings and for large media. In this work we therefore determine the accuracy of keeping only the factorizable term of the large-Nc solution. We find that the error is insignificant at a small splitting fraction z ~ 0, but can be sizable in a more balanced splitting with z ~ 0.5. Finally, we also examine the eikonal approximation, which amounts to approximating the partons’ paths through the medium as straight lines. We find that it is associated with a substantial error for the parameter values we explored in this work.
Energetics and dynamics of the proton shuttle of carbonic anhydrase II
Authors: Raum Heiner N. , Fisher Suzanne Zoë , Weininger Ulrich
Published: September 2023

Human carbonic anhydrase II catalyzes the reversible reaction of carbon dioxide and water to form bicarbonate and a proton. His64-mediated proton shuttling between the active site and the bulk solvent is rate limiting. Here we investigate the protonation behavior of His64 as well as its structural and dynamic features in a pH dependent way. We derive two pKa values for His64, 6.25 and 7.60, that we were able to assign to its inward and outward conformation. Furthermore, we show that His64 exists in both conformations equally, independent of pH. Both conformations display an equal distribution of their two neutral tautomeric states. The life time of each conformation is short and both states display high flexibility within their orientation. Therefore, His64 is never static, but rather poised to change conformation. These findings support an energetic, dynamic and solution ensemble-based framework for the high enzymatic activity of human carbonic anhydrase II.
Compairing Categories of Lubin–Tate $$(\varphi _L,\Gamma _L)$$-Modules
Authors: Schneider Peter , Venjakob Otmar
Published: September 2023

In the Lubin–Tate setting we compare different categories of $$(\varphi _L,\Gamma )$$

(

φ
L

,
Γ
)

-modules over various perfect or imperfect coefficient rings. Moreover, we study their associated Herr-complexes. Finally, we show that a Lubin Tate extension gives rise to a weakly decompleting, but not decompleting tower in the sense of Kedlaya and Liu.
Engineering natural isolates of Saccharomyces cerevisiae for consolidated bioprocessing of cellulosic feedstocks
Authors: Minnaar Letitia , den Haan Riaan
Published: September 2023

Saccharomyces cerevisiae has gained much attention as a potential host for cellulosic bioethanol production using consolidated bioprocessing (CBP) methodologies, due to its high-ethanol-producing titres, heterologous protein production capabilities, and tolerance to various industry-relevant stresses. Since the secretion levels of heterologous proteins are generally low in domesticated strains of S. cerevisiae, natural isolates may offer a more diverse genetic background for improved heterologous protein secretion, while also displaying greater robustness to process stresses. In this study, the potential of natural and industrial S. cerevisiae strains to secrete a core set of cellulases (CBH1, CBH2, EG2, and BGL1), encoded by genes integrated using CRISPR/Cas9 tools, was evaluated. High levels of heterologous protein production were associated with a reduced maximal growth rate and with slight changes in overall strain robustness, compared to the parental strains. The natural isolate derivatives YI13_BECC and YI59_BECC displayed superior secretion capacity for the heterologous cellulases at high incubation temperature and in the presence of acetic acid, respectively, compared to the reference industrial strain MH1000_BECC. These strains also exhibited multi-tolerance to several fermentation-associated and secretion stresses. Cultivation of the strains on crystalline cellulose in oxygen-limited conditions yielded ethanol concentrations in the range of 4–4.5 g/L, representing 35–40% of the theoretical maximum ethanol yield after 120 h, without the addition of exogenous enzymes. This study therefore highlights the potential of these natural isolates to be used as chassis organisms in CBP bioethanol production.

Key points

• Process-related fermentation stresses influence heterologous protein production.

• Transformants produced up to 4.5 g/L ethanol, ~ 40% of the theoretical yield in CBP.

• CRISPR/Cas9 was feasible for integrating genes in natural S. cerevisiae isolates.
Novel findings about the mode of action of the antifungal protein PeAfpA against Saccharomyces cerevisiae
Authors: Giner-Llorca Moisés , Locascio Antonella , del Real Javier Alonso , Marcos Jose F. , Manzanares Paloma
Published: September 2023

Antifungal proteins (AFPs) from filamentous fungi offer the potential to control fungal infections that threaten human health and food safety. AFPs exhibit broad antifungal spectra against harmful fungi, but limited knowledge of their killing mechanism hinders their potential applicability. PeAfpA from Penicillium expansum shows strong antifungal potency against plant and human fungal pathogens and stands above other AFPs for being active against the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae. We took advantage of this and used a model laboratory strain of S. cerevisiae to gain insight into the mode of action of PeAfpA by combining (i) transcriptional profiling, (ii) PeAfpA sensitivity analyses of deletion mutants available in the S. cerevisiae genomic deletion collection and (iii) cell biology studies using confocal microscopy. Results highlighted and confirmed the role of the yeast cell wall (CW) in the interaction with PeAfpA, which can be internalized through both energy-dependent and independent mechanisms. The combined results also suggest an active role of the CW integrity (CWI) pathway and the cAMP-PKA signalling in the PeAfpA killing mechanism. Besides, our studies revealed the involvement of phosphatidylinositol metabolism and the participation of ROX3, which codes for the subunit 19 of the RNA polymerase II mediator complex, in the yeast defence strategy. In conclusion, our study provides clues about both the killing mechanism of PeAfpA and the fungus defence strategies against the protein, suggesting also targets for the development of new antifungals.

Key points

• PeAfpA is a cell-penetrating protein with inhibitory activity against S. cerevisiae.

• The CW integrity (CWI) pathway is a key player in the PeAfpA killing mechanism.

• Phosphatidylinositol metabolism and ROX3 are involved in the yeast defence strategy.
Thermal treatment of the tourmaline Fe-rich princivalleite Na(Mn2Al)Al6(Si6O18)(BO3)3(OH)3O
Authors: Altieri Alessandra , Luppi Riccardo , Skogby Henrik , Hålenius Ulf , Tempesta Gioacchino , Pezzotta Federico , Bosi Ferdinando
Published: September 2023

Natural Fe2+-rich princivalleite was thermally treated in the air at 700 °C to study crystal-chemical and color variations due to changes in oxidation states of Fe and Mn and atom ordering. Overall, the experimental data (electron microprobe, structural refinement, Mössbauer, infrared, and optical absorption spectroscopy) show that thermal treatment of princivalleite results in an almost total Fe2+ oxidation to Fe3+ and an oxidation of approximately one-third of Mn2+ to Mn3+ along with a minor degree of disorder of Al–Fe–Mn over the Y and Z sites. This process is accompanied by a significant deprotonation of the sample. The YFe and YMn oxidation from + 2 to + 3 yields in a decrease in a-parameter, whereas the increased content of ZFe3+ results in a minor increase in the c-parameter. Optical absorption spectroscopy shows that the faint blue (azure) color of untreated princivalleite is caused by the presence of Fe2+ and the absence of Ti4+. Thermal treatment in air (700 °C) changed the color to dark brown due to the progressive oxidation of Fe2+ to Fe3+ and Mn2+ to Mn3+, as demonstrated by the evolution of optical absorption bands caused by electron transitions in these 3d-cations. However, the most evident result of the thermal treatment of the Fe-rich princivalleite sample is the simultaneous presence of Fe2+, Fe3+, Mn2+, and Mn3+, with a Fe3+/ΣFe and Mn3+/ΣMn ratio of 0.92 and 0.25, respectively. This observation suggests that the oxidation process during the heating experiments was largely controlled by kinetic factors.
Optimizing congenital cytomegalovirus detection by pool testing in saliva by a rapid molecular test
Authors: Izquierdo Giannina , Farfan Mauricio J , Villavicencio Leonel , Montecinos Luisa , Tarque Felipe , Acevedo William , Reyes Roberto , Guerra Carolina , Araya Leslie , Sepúlveda Belén , Cabrera Camila , Medina Pamela , Mendez Jocelyn , Mardones Elieder , Torres Juan P
Published: September 2023

Universal congenital cytomegalovirus (cCMV) screening in saliva is increasingly recommended. The aim of our study was to correlate the performance of a point-of-care rapid molecular test with CMV real time PCR (CMV RT-PCR) detection, using saliva pool-testing in newborns under a universal screening strategy. Saliva swabs were prospectively collected from newborns < 21 days old and tested by Alethia-LAMP-CMV assay in pools of 5 samples. In positive pools, subjects were tested individually and by saliva and urine CMV RT-PCR. A subset of negative pools were studied with both techniques and viral loads in whole blood were determined in positive patients. From 1,642 newborns included in 328 pools, 8 were confirmed by urine CMV RT-PCR, (cCMV prevalence 0,49%). The PPA and NNA of the pooled saliva Alethia-LAMP-CMV testing were 87,5% and 99,8% with a negative and positive predictive value of 99,9% and 77,7%, respectively. Two false positives were detected (0,12%). A subset of 17 negative pools (85 samples), studied by saliva CMV RT-PCR, showed 100% concordance.

  Conclusion: CMV pool-testing using a rapid molecular test in saliva proved feasible when compared to PCR gold standards. This strategy could improve cost-effectiveness for cCMV universal neonatal screening, based on the low prevalence of the infection and could be a more affordable approach in less developed regions with reduced detection capacity.

What is Known:• cCMV is the most frequent congenital infection and a leading nongenetic cause of sensorineural hearing loss and brain disease.
• Universal screening could allow early detection of congenitally infected infants, improving clinical outcome.

• Saliva PCR is the preferred and non-invasive test for newborn cCMV screening.

What is New:
• The feasibility of a universal cCMV screening by pool-testing in saliva using a rapid test in pools of 5 samples.

• PPA and NPA were 87,5 and 99,8% compared to CMV PCR in urine.

• This strategy could be relevant specially in LMIC where detection capacity is reduced and could improve cost-effectiveness.

• cCMV prevalence in our center was 0,49%.
The influence of volcano topographic changes on infrasound amplitude: lava fountains at Mt. Etna in 2021
Authors: Iozzia Adriana , Watson Leighton M. , Cantarero Massimo , De Beni Emanuela , Di Grazia Giuseppe , Ganci Gaetana , Johnson Jeffrey B. , Privitera Eugenio , Proietti Cristina , Sciotto Mariangela , Cannata Andrea
Published: September 2023

Infrasound signals are used to investigate and monitor active volcanoes during eruptive and degassing activity. Infrasound amplitude information has been used to estimate eruptive parameters such as plume height, magma discharge rate, and lava fountain height. Active volcanoes are characterized by pronounced topography and, during eruptive activity, the topography can change rapidly, affecting the observed infrasound amplitudes. While the interaction of infrasonic signals with topography has been widely investigated over the past decade, there has been limited work on the impact of changing topography on the infrasonic amplitudes. In this work, the infrasonic signals accompanying 57 lava fountain paroxysms at Mt. Etna (Italy) during 2021 were analyzed. In particular, the temporal and spatial variations of the infrasound amplitudes were investigated. During 2021, significant changes in the topography around the most active crater (the South East Crater) took place and were reconstructed in detail using high resolution imagery from unoccupied aerial system surveys. Through analysis of the observed infrasound signals and numerical simulations of the acoustic wavefield, we demonstrate that the observed spatial and temporal variation in the infrasound signal amplitudes can largely be explained by the combined effects of changes in the location of the acoustic source and changes in the near-vent topography, together with source acoustic amplitude variations. This work demonstrates the importance of accurate source locations and high-resolution topographic information, particularly in the near-vent region where the topography is most likely to change rapidly and illustrates that changing topography should be considered when interpreting local infrasound observations over long time scales.
Revised and wider classes of isotropic space-time covariance functions
Authors: Posa D.
Published: September 2023

Several classes of space-time correlation models have been proposed by various authors in the last years. However, most of these families utilize non negative covariance functions to be adapted to different case studies: indeed, the traditional classes of covariances, such as the Whittle–Matern class and the several families constructed by applying the classical properties are not so flexible to describe covariance functions characterized by negative values. A recent analysis, regarding the difference between two isotropic covariance functions, has underlined that these new families of models are more flexible than the traditional ones because the same models are able to select covariance functions which are always positive in their domain, as well as covariance functions which could be negative in a subset of their field of definition. Moreover, within the same class of models, it is possible to select covariance models which present different behaviours in proximity of the origin. In this paper several families of isotropic space-time covariance functions, among the ones proposed in the literature, have been reviewed in order to enrich the same families including models characterized by negative values in a subset of their domain. Furthermore, the definition of separability has been revised in order to enlarge the classical definition. Apart from the theoretical importance related to the new aspects, these new classes of covariance models are characterized by an extremely simple formalism and can be easily adapted to several case studies.
Hidden in plain sight: how individual ADHD stakeholders have conflicting ideas about ADHD but do not address their own ambivalence
Authors: van Langen Myrte J. M. , van Hulst Branko M. , Durston Sarah
Published: September 2023

Psychiatric classifications refer to clusters of behavioral symptoms. We know much about how psychiatric classifications are intended to be used in theory. Yet the scientific study of thepractice of classificationto date is limited. We aimed to explore how individuals navigate and make sense of the complexity surrounding an ADHD classification. We used thematic analysis to analyse stakeholder perspectives from seven focus groups: adults classified with ADHD, adolescents classified with ADHD, parents of children classified with ADHD, clinicians, researchers, teachers, and policy makers. We found seven themes in how stakeholders navigate the classification ADHD. Yet, what stood out was an overarching discursive pattern: individual stakeholders expressed highly ambivalent ideas about ADHD but did not address their own ambivalence. We suggest that promoting a social kinds perspective on ADHD may help us navigate the complexity and ambivalence associated with ADHD more competently.
An integrated perspective of electrochemistry teaching in science and technology
Authors: Brett Christopher M. A. , Oliveira-Brett Ana Maria
Published: September 2023

A perspective on the teaching of electrochemistry for science and engineering students is discussed followed by the elements and components of a wide-ranging course that can be adapted to the needs of each science and/or engineering students and, indeed, the scientific community and society at large. For all, there is a pressing need to be able to reflect critically on the knowledge gained, so that in their future careers they are able to take scientific, political and economic decisions involving different aspects of electrochemistry in the best way, particularly regarding energy, materials, health, foods and environment.
Three separate acquisitions of blaNDM-1 in three different bacterial species from a single patient
Authors: Mataseje L. F. , Pitout J. , Croxen M. , Mulvey M. R. , Dingle T. C.
Published: September 2023

To investigate the acquisition and relatedness of New Delhi Metallo-beta-lactamase among multiple separate species from one patient. Five isolates from three species (Pseudomonas aeruginosa; Pa, Acinetobacter baumannii; Ab and Proteus mirabilis; Pm) suspected of harbouring a carbapenemase were investigated by phenotype (antimicrobial susceptibilities) and whole genome sequencing. Epidemiological data was collected on this patient. Three different carbapenemase genes were detected; blaVIM-1 (Pa; ST773), blaOXA-23 (Ab, ST499) and blaNDM-1 identified in all isolates. NDM regions were found chromosomally integrated in all isolates. Data showed no evidence of NDM-1 transfer within this patient suggesting the enzyme was acquired in three separate events.
Understanding Thermally Driven Slope Winds: Recent Advances and Open Questions
Authors: Farina Sofia , Zardi Dino
Published: September 2023

The paper reviews recent advances in our understanding about the dynamics of thermally driven winds over sloping terrain. Major progress from recent experiments, both in the field and in the laboratory, are outlined. Achievements from numerical modelling efforts, including both parameterized turbulence and large eddy simulation approaches, up to direct numerical simulations, are also reviewed. Finally, theoretical insights on the nature of turbulence in such winds are analyzed along with applications which benefit from progress in understanding of these flows. Open questions to be faced for further investigations are finally highlighted.
Prognostic impact of adjuvant endocrine therapy for estrogen receptor-positive and HER2-negative T1a/bN0M0 breast cancer
Authors: Sasada Shinsuke , Kondo Naoto , Hashimoto Hiroya , Takahashi Yuko , Terata Kaori , Kida Kumiko , Sagara Yasuaki , Ueno Takayuki , Anan Keisei , Suto Akihiko , Kanbayashi Chizuko , Takahashi Mina , Nakamura Rikiya , Ishiba Toshiyuki , Tsuneizumi Michiko , Nishimura Seiichiro , Naito Yoichi , Hara Fumikata , Shien Tadahiko , Iwata Hiroji
Published: September 2023

Purpose

Mammography screening has increased the detection of subcentimeter breast cancers. The prognosis for estrogen receptor (ER)-positive and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2)-negative T1a/bN0M0 breast cancers is excellent; however, the necessity of adjuvant endocrine therapy (ET) is uncertain.

Methods

We evaluated the effectiveness of adjuvant ET in patients with ER-positive and HER2-negative T1a/bN0M0 breast cancer who underwent surgery from 2008 to 2012. Standard ET was administrated after surgery. The primary endpoint was the cumulative incidence of distant metastasis. All statistical tests were 2-sided.

Results

Adjuvant ET was administered to 3991 (83%) of the 4758 eligible patients (1202 T1a [25.3%] and 3556 T1b [74.7%], diseases). The median follow-up period was 9.2 years. The 9-year cumulative incidence of distant metastasis was 1.5% with ET and 2.6% without ET (adjusted subdistribution hazard ratio [sHR], 0.54; 95% CI, 0.32–0.93). In multivariate analysis, the independent risk factors for distant metastasis were no history of ET, mastectomy, high-grade, and lymphatic invasion. The 9-year overall survival was 97.0% and 94.4% with and without ET, respectively (adjusted HR, 0.57; 95% CI, 0.39–0.83). In addition, adjuvant ET reduced the incidence of ipsilateral and contralateral breast cancer (9-year rates; 1.1% vs. 6.9%; sHR, 0.17, and 1.9% vs. 5.2%; sHR, 0.33).

Conclusions

The prognosis was favorable in patients with ER-positive and HER2-negative T1a/bN0M0 breast cancer. Furthermore, adjuvant ET reduced the incidence of distant metastasis with minimal absolute risk difference. These findings support considering the omission of adjuvant ET, especially for patients with low-grade and no lymphatic invasion disease.
Implementing Suicide Risk Screening in a Virtual Addiction Clinic
Authors: Glasner Suzette , Wei August X. , Ryan Patrick C. , Michero Darcy N. , Monico Laura B. , Pielsticker Peyton E. , Horowitz Lisa M.
Published: September 2023

The purpose of this study was to describe the feasibility of implementing suicide risk screening in a virtual addiction clinic. Suicide risk screening was implemented in a virtual addiction clinic serving individuals with substance use disorders (SUD) using a quality improvement framework. One-hundred percent (252/252) of eligible patients enrolled in the clinic were screened for suicide risk (44% female; M[SD] age = 45.0[11.0] years, range = 21–68 years). Nineteen patients (8%) screened positive for suicide risk. After screening, no patients required emergency suicide interventions (100% non-acute positive). Notably, 74% (14/19) of those who screened positive did so by endorsing at least one past suicide attempt with no recent ideation. Suicide risk screening in virtual addiction clinics yields important clinical information for high-risk SUD populations without overburdening workflow with emergency services. Given the high proportion of non-acute positive screens based on suicide attempt histories with no recent ideation, clinicians may utilize information on suicide attempt history to facilitate further mental healthcare.
Media and Information Literacy in the Prescribed Curriculum: A Systematic Review on its Integration
Authors: Rojas-Estrada Elizabeth-Guadalupe , Aguaded Ignacio , García-Ruiz Rosa
Published: September 2023

The curricular integration of Media and Information Literacy (MIL) is crucial for cultivating informed, critical, and engaged citizens in contemporary society. It assists in addressing the challenges of the digital era and capitalizing on the opportunities presented by the ever-changing media landscape. Thus, the present systematic literature review uses the PRISMA guidelines to examine three dimensions in the process of integration of Media and Information Literacy (MIL) in the prescribed curriculum: formulation, implementation, and evaluation and challenges. Starting with the search criteria, 131 studies were found in the Web of Science, Scopus, ERIC, Dialnet and Google Scholar databases, published between January, 2013, and March, 2023, written in English, Spanish, Portuguese, and Turkish. The findings suggest that the will of the political sphere and the activism of the triad composed by passionate teachers, civil society, and academia, are key factors for promoting the introduction of MIL in formal education. Likewise, it is underlined that the evaluation of this education policy requires special attention, in order to guarantee the analysis of its reach, effectiveness, and capacity to adapt against the challenges that emerge in the media ecosystem. Thus, the intention is to provide up-to-date information for the creation of policies, research studies, and curricular content on this subject.
Renewable energy deployment in Europe: Do politics matter?
Authors: Silva Nuno , Fuinhas José Alberto , Koengkan Matheus , Kazemzadeh Emad , Kaymaz Volkan
Published: September 2023

This study analyzes non-hydroelectric renewable capacity across 27 European countries from 2000 to 2020, using advanced econometric techniques like the Dumitrescu and Hurlin panel Granger non-causality method, Panel Autoregressive Distributed Lag and Panel Quantile Autoregressive Distributed Lag estimations. This investigation reveals complex relationships extending beyond immediate variables. These relationships, rooted in pairwise causalities and broader interactions, underpin observed phenomena. Causality tests show that achieving non-hydroelectric renewable capacity is a long-term endeavor, emphasizing persistent policy approaches for effective energy transition. Three key variables emerge as potent policy drivers: maintaining an environment conducive to economic freedom, fostering financial development, and driving non-hydroelectric renewable patents’ research and development. These variables play a pivotal role in capacity expansion. Additionally, the findings of this empirical investigation spotlight the role of political orientations. Leftist governments have lagged in prioritizing energy transition, prompting questions about neglecting environmental concerns and necessitating comprehensive policy reform. In essence, this study offers novel insights into non-hydroelectric renewable energy deployment. By unraveling complex relationships, emphasizing persistent policies, and identifying key variables, this investigation provides a nuanced perspective in line with sustainable energy transition urgency. As global ecological imperatives heighten, our work guides informed policy decisions for a greener future.
The spatial nexus of monuments, memorability and identity formation in Chatsworth and Durban Central, South Africa
Authors: Mukwidigwi Tariro , Naidu Maheshvari , Govender Subashini , Membele Garikai
Published: September 2023

The monumentalization of public space has received significant scholarly attention both globally and locally. In the South African context, this interest has been further heightened by the #Rhodes Must Fall campaign in 2015, which raised questions about the relevance of colonial statues in the post-transformation era. This campaign sparked extensive debates regarding monumentalization within the country’s cultural landscape. Against this backdrop, the present empirical study aims to contribute to these discussions by examining the role of monuments, particularly their spatial characteristics, in shaping processes of memory and identity reconstruction within urban public spaces. The study employed cultural mapping techniques, including participatory GIS (PGIS) and semi-structured interviews, to generate data in the areas of Chatsworth and Durban Central. Additionally, the study draws upon Henri Lefebvre’s (1974) conceptualizations of monuments and Proshansky’s (1983) place-identity theory to explore the constitutive relationship between the spatiality of monuments and embodied memories in the production of spatial identities. The empirical findings of the study affirm monuments as sites for negotiating spatial identities, acknowledging the diversity and multiplicity of memories and identities that emerged. Furthermore, the study highlights the significance of the spatial context of monuments, including dimensions such as aesthetic appeal, geographic prominence, positionality, and discernibility, in influencing the symbolic value of monuments in memory-making and identity formation processes. In conclusion, the paper emphasizes the importance of reconfiguring the spatial context of monuments to ensure their efficacy in processes of memorialization and identity reconstruction.
Pre-earthquake Ionospheric Anomalies and Ionospheric Storms Observed by FORMOSAT-5/AIP and GIM TEC
Authors: Liu J. Y. , Chang F. Y. , Chen Y. I. , Chang Loren C. , Wen Y. C. , Wu T. Y. , Chao C. K.
Published: September 2023

The mission of Advanced Ionospheric Probe (AIP) onboard FORMOSAT-5 (F5) satellite is to detect pre-earthquake ionospheric anomalies (PEIAs) and observe ionospheric space weather. F5/AIP plasma quantities in the nighttime of 22:30 LT (local time) and the total electron content (TEC) of the global ionosphere map (GIM) are used to study PEIAs of an M7.3 earthquake in the Iran–Iraq border area on 12 November 2017, as well as signatures of two magnetic storms on 7 and 21–22 November 2017. Statistical analyses of the median base and one sample test are employed to find the characteristics of temporal PEIAs in GIM TEC over the Iran–Iraq area. The anomalous increases of the GIM TEC and F5/AIP ion density over the epicenter area on 3–4 November (day 9–8 before the M7.3 earthquake) agree with the temporal PEIA characteristics that the significant TEC increase frequently appears on day 14–6 before 53 M ≥ 5.5 earthquakes in the area during 1999–2016. The spatial analyses together with odds studies show that the PEIAs frequently appear specifically over the epicenter day 9–8 before the M7.3 earthquake and day 10–9 before a M6.1 earthquake on 1 December, while proponent TEC increases occur at worldwide high latitudes on the two magnetic storm days. The F5/AIP ion velocity uncovers that the PEIAs of the two earthquakes are caused by associated eastward electric fields, and the two positive storm signatures are due to the prompt penetration electric fields.
Exploring the potential of algae-bacteria interactions in the biocontrol of the marine pathogen Vibrio parahaemolyticus
Authors: Osborne Breanna , Siboni Nachshon , Seymour Justin R. , Ralph Peter , Pernice Mathieu
Published: September 2023

The marine bacteriumVibrio parahaemolyticusis the leading cause of seafood-related food poisoning worldwide and a pathogen of marine species harvested in aquaculture. An outbreak of pathogenicV. parahaemolyticuswithin crustacean and bi-valve aquaculture facilities often results in significant loss of farmed product and in the spread of the pathogen into the human population. Evidence shows several marine bacteria and microalgae species have antibacterial effects against marine pathogens, includingV. parahaemolyticus. This study explored the potential of combining possible mutualistic species as a consortium to enhance antibacterial properties againstV. parahaemolyticus. Marine bacteria and microalgae were screened with the aim of identifying those able to successfully coexist while demonstrating growth suppression of multipleV. parahaemolyticusstrains. This trial involved four screening phases to find effective inhibitor species and to gain insight into species-specific influences on cell growth. The combination ofTetraselmissp. andPseudoalteromonas peptidolyticaachieved the greatest inhibition rate ofV. parahaemolyticusof all combinations. This pairing resulted in the significant reduction of up to 24 ± 15% inVibriosp. copy number mL−1 day−1in two of the five examinedV. parahaemolyticusstrains within five days, compared to control cultures absent of probiotic bacteria. Applying probiotic consortia such as this has the potential for use as a biocontrol technique within mariculture, but it will require additional research into the self-sustainability of successful consortia in natural aquatic conditions.
Effectiveness of the Triple P Program on Parental Stress and Self-efficacy in the Context of a Community Roll-out
Authors: Gagné Marie-Hélène , Brunson Liesette , Piché Geneviève , Drapeau Sylvie , Paradis Hélène , Terrault Zoé
Published: September 2023

This study evaluated the effectiveness of the Triple P (Primary Care and/or Group) parenting support program on various aspects of the parenting experience through a quasi-experimental pretest – post-test protocol with an active comparison group (Care as usual). A sample of 384 parents assigned to two groups (n Triple P = 291; n Care as usual = 93) completed three subscales of the Parenting Stress Index – 4 – Short Form (Parental Distress, Parent-Child Dysfunctional Interaction, and Difficult Child) and the Parental Self-Agency Measure. The amount of intervention received by each parent was considered in the analyses. Path analysis showed that the type (Triple P vs Care as usual) and the amount of intervention (number of sessions attended) contributed independently to predicting changes in parenting experience between pretest and post-test. Receiving Triple P was systematically associated with more positive outcomes than receiving care as usual, whereas more intervention was positively associated with improved self-efficacy and parent-child relationship quality. Overall, the model explained between 4.0% and 12.6% of the variance in individual change, depending on the outcome, suggesting that unmeasured drivers of change came into play. A follow-up of parents in the Triple P group two to four years after the end of the program (n follow-up = 164) showed that the observed changes were maintained over time, with moderate to large effect sizes. These results help to broaden the evidence base on the effectiveness of this program in a sociocultural and linguistic context different from that in which it was developed.
Phrasal Proper Names in German and Norwegian
Authors: Julien Marit , Roehrs Dorian
Published: September 2023

This paper discusses the morpho-syntax of phrasal proper names like Deutsche Bahn ‘German Railway’ and Norske Skog ‘Norwegian Forest’ in German and Norwegian. As regards determiner elements, there are three types of phrasal proper names in German: some proper names do not have a definite article, some do, and yet others exhibit a possessive. Depending on the syntactic context, the first two types pattern the same as regards the presence or absence of the article but contrast with the third, where the possessive is always present. It is proposed that proper names in German vary in their structure as regards the presence of the DP-level: unlike articles, possessives have a referential marker, and a DP is obligatorily projected with the latter element. Norwegian is different. While proper names in Norwegian also vary in the presence or absence of determiners, there is no flexibility—determiners are always present or always absent, independent of the syntactic context. It is proposed that unlike in German, the DP-level in Norwegian is always present. As argued by Roehrs (Glossa J Gen Linguist, 5(1):1–38, 2020, https://doi.org/10.5334/gjgl.1267), phrasal proper names involve a regular syntactic derivation. Given that elements of regular DPs are sensitive to definiteness in Norwegian, it is proposed that Norwegian proper names involve an obligatory definiteness feature. As this feature surfaces in the DP-level, the latter must be present in that language in all instances. Besides this cross-linguistic difference, we document that phrasal PN may show features of recursivity evidenced most clearly in Norwegian.
Long droughts decrease tiger- and ground-beetle’ beta diversity and community body size in savannas of the Gorongosa National Park (Mozambique)
Authors: Martins da Silva Pedro , Carvalho Rui , Boieiro Mário , Sousa José Paulo , Serrano Artur R.M.
Published: September 2023

We assessed the Caraboidea communities of Gorongosa National Park (GNP) in Mozambique. Influence of tropical rainfall, after a long period of drought, was evaluated on alpha and beta diversity of tiger- and ground-beetles in the main habitat types of the park: miombo forests, mixed forests, transitional forests, and grasslands (open savannas). Tiger- and ground-beetle communities were sampled by pitfall traps set up in 25 sites of each habitat type along three sampling periods, comprising the transition of dry season to the wet season. After the first rainfall, an increase in alpha diversity was observed across GNP habitats, particularly in grasslands. Higher values of beta diversity were observed between the dry and wet sampling periods, particularly in grasslands. In contrast, community dissimilarities between sampling periods were not significant in the transitional forests. Community body size in grasslands increased after the rainfall, partly due to the occurrence of caraboid species that were exclusive of forest habitats during drought. Transitional forests, as ecotone habitat areas, appeared to support grassland species during drought, serving also as a source of forest species that may colonize the open areas in the wet season. Forest species will probably be more threatened by climate aridification and future landscape changes due to climate change.