bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Anetodermic Pilomatrixomas: A Case Series
Authors: Vetsiou Evangelia , Gass Julia , Khoo Andre , McDonald Sarah , Stefanos Niki , Rytina Ed , Burrows Nigel
Published: September 2023

Pilomatrixoma is a benign hair follicle tumour. Anetodermic changes overlying pilomatrixoma are rare. The aim of this study is to evaluate a case series of patients with a clinical diagnosis of anetodermic pilomatrixoma presenting to our Dermatology Department over a 5-year period. Eight cases were identified. The median age of onset was 21 years. All cases presented on the upper limbs and trunk with a solitary rapidly evolving tumour, tender on palpation. They had an erythematous protuberant appearance with a wrinkled and atrophic surface. Underlying pilomatrixomas were firm measuring 1–5 cm. Simple excision was carried out in seven cases without postoperative complications. In conclusion, anetodermic pilomatrixoma is a rare variant of this tumour, occurring more frequently on the upper body. It presents with identifiable features and should be differentiated from other skin tumours. Surgical removal is usually the gold standard treatment.
Antifungal Properties of Nanosilver Clay Composites Against Fungal Pathogens of Agaricus bisporus
Authors: Ramakutoane Tebogo Levy , Roux‐van der Merwe Magaretha Petronella , Badenhorst Jacqueline , Kesavan Pillai Sreejarani , Ray Suprakas Sinha
Published: September 2023

This study aimed to determine the possible control of selected pathogenic and competitive fungi of A. bisporus by three nanosilver clay composites and establish the effective concentrations of the composites for inhibiting pathogens. Nanosilver (AgNPs) clay (zeolite, montmorillonite, and palygorskite) composites were synthesized by a microwave‐assisted surface functionalization technique, and various techniques characterized the products. Zeolite and montmorillonite composites showed uniformly distributed spherical AgNPs with an average size of 3.33 nm and 2.85 nm, respectively, whereas palygorskite presented agglomerated and unevenly distributed AgNPs. The influence of the various composites on 9 fungi, including strains of T. aggressivum f. aggressivum, L. fungicola, C. dendroides, and Mycogone sp., was determined in vitro at different concentrations. At 10 mg/mL, AgNP‐zeolite and AgNP‐montmorillonite inhibited 8 out of 9 pathogens, while AgNP‐palygorskite only inhibited 1 pathogen. The nanosilver clay composites tested against A. bisporus revealed no adverse effects on mycelial growth at any concentrations tested. This study confirms that AgNP‐zeolite and AgNP‐montmorillonite composites have effective antifungal properties and can be used as alternative fungicides against mushroom pathogens without affecting A. bisporus growth. However, further investigation is required to unravel the mechanism of selective antifungal activity observed in this study.
Total Synthesis of Aporphine Alkaloids via Benzyne Chemistry: Progress Towards a Late‐Stage Enantioselective Hydrogenation and Neuroprotective Activity Evaluations
Authors: Cipriano da Silva Tamiris Reissa , Oliveira Rafaela Brito , Nicastro Arthur Luiz Miranda , Ureshino Rodrigo Portes , Raminelli Cristiano
Published: September 2023

A dehydroaporphine intermediate obtained via benzyne chemistry was used to accomplish the enantioselective total synthesis of (S)‐nuciferine, the first total synthesis of (±)‐urabaine, and our second‐generation total synthesis of lysicamine. (S)‐Nuciferine was obtained by an unprecedented late‐stage asymmetric hydrogenation employing a chiral iridium(I) catalyst. The first total synthesis of (±)‐urabaine and the second‐generation total synthesis of lysicamine, which exhibited low cytotoxicity and neuroprotective activity, were completed by oxidation reactions in 7 and 6 steps, respectively.
Unprecedented Multifunctionality in Novel Monophase Micro/Nanostructured Ti‐Zn Alloy
Authors: Vikraman Hajeesh Kumar , George Jeena , Reji Rence P. , Kuppuswamy Guru Prasad , Sutar Sanjay. D. , Swami Anita , Ramamoorthy Sharmiladevi , Sundaramurthy Anandhakumar , Pramanik Sumit , Velappa Jayaraman Surya , Perumal Suresh , Sivalingam Yuvaraj , Mangalampalli S. R. N. Kiran
Published: September 2023

It is always challenging to integrate multiple functions into one material system. However, those materials/devices will address society's critical global challenges and technological demands if achieved with innovative design strategies and engineering. Here, one such material with a broader spectrum of desired properties appropriate for seven applications is identified and explored, and a glucose‐sensing‐triggered energy‐storage mechanism is demonstrated. To date, the Titanium (Ti)‐Zinc (Zn) binary alloys are investigated only as mixed phases and for a maximum of three applications. In contrast, the novel single phase of structurally stable 50 Ti‐50 Zn (Ti0.5Zn0.5) is synthesized and proven suitable for seven emerging applications. Interestingly, it is thermally stable up to 750 °C and possesses excellent mechanical, tribological properties and corrosion resistance. While exceptional biocompatibility is evident even up to a concentration of 500 µg mL−1, the antibacterial activity against E. coli is also seen. Further, rapid detection and superior selectivity for glucose, along with supercabattery behavior, unambiguously demonstrate that this novel monophase is a remarkable multifunctional material than the existing mixed‐phase Ti‐Zn compounds. The coin‐cell supercapacitor shows outstanding stability up to 30 000 cycles with >100% retention capacity. This allows us to prototype a glucose‐sensing‐triggered energy‐storage‐device system for wearable point‐of‐care diagnostic applications.
James Michael Gilbertson
Authors: Rishworth Julian
Published: September 2023

A vet who focused on high clinical standards, kindness and empathy.
Composition of non‐volant small mammals inhabiting a degradation gradient in a lowland tropical forest in Uganda
Authors: Babyesiza Sadic Waswa , Mgode Georgies , Mpagi Joseph Luwaga , Sabuni Christopher , Ssuuna James , Akoth Sisiria , Katakwebwa Abdul
Published: September 2023

A study aimed at assessing the structure of rodent and shrew assemblages inhabiting a degradation gradient while considering rainfall patterns, was conducted in one of few remaining lowland tropical forests in eastern Africa. We collected a unique dataset of rodents and shrews, representing 24 species (19 rodents, 5 shrews). The most abundant species alternated in dominance as species abundance significantly fluctuated across the study period following a degradation gradient. While only generalist species were observed near the degraded forest edge, habitat specialists such as Deomys ferrugineus, Malacomys longipes and Scutisorex congicus, were observed in the primary forest interior suggesting a significant association between species and their associated habitats and habitat attributes. There was also an observed correlation between rainfall patterns and species abundance. Capturing more species in adjacent fallows and along the degraded forest edge suggests that many species are able to live in degraded habitats that offer a variety of food resources. The study has highlighted the importance of habitat heterogeneity through species associations and also recommend an assessment of the effect of habitat homogeneity due to the proliferation of paper mulberry on small mammal community.
UNESCO, the OECD and the World Bank: A Global Governance Perspective
Authors: Elfert Maren , Ydesen Christian
Published: September 2023

This chapter provides an introduction and critical discussion of the epistemic and ontological underpinnings of UNESCO, the OECD and the World Bank and gives an overview of the educational work of these three organizations from a global governance perspective. Based on their divergent ideologies and modes of governance, we conceptualize UNESCO as the “idealist”, the OECD as the “master of persuasion”, and the World Bank as the “master of coercion”. The chapter demonstrates how the three international organizations have engaged with similar ideas and approaches, collaborated when it served their interests and struggled for influence and impact on the design and workings of the global governance in education.
The Role of Open Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation in Chest Trauma Patients with No Sign of Life: A National Trauma Data Bank Study
Authors: Chang Yau‐Ren , Kuo Ling‐Wei , Hsu Ting‐An , Tee Yu‐San , Fu Chih‐Yuan , Bajani Francesco , Mis Justin , Poulakidas Stathis , Bokhari Faran
Published: September 2023

Purpose

The effectiveness of open cardiopulmonary resuscitation (OCPR) remains controversial for trauma patients. In this current study, the role of OCPR in managing chest trauma patients is evaluated using nationwide real‐world data.

Methods

From 2014 to 2015, the National Trauma Data Bank was retrospectively queried for chest trauma patients with out‐of‐hospital cardiac arrest status. The emergency department (ED) and overall survival of patients without signs of life were analyzed. Multivariate logistic regression (MLR) analysis was performed to evaluate independent factors of mortality for the target group. Furthermore, a subset group of patients who survived after the ED were studied, focusing on the duration of survival after leaving the ED.

Results

A total of 911 patients were enrolled in this study (OCPR vs. non‐OCPR: 161 patients vs. 750 patients). The average overall mortality rate was 98.6% (N = 898). Among penetrating chest trauma patients, non‐survivors in the ED had significantly higher proportions of gunshot injuries (83.9% vs. 69.7%, p = 0.001) and lower proportions of OCPR (20.7% vs. 44.4%, p < 0.001). MLR analysis showed that gunshot injuries and non‐OCPR were significantly related to ED mortality in penetrating trauma patients without signs of life (odds ratio = 2.039, p = 0.006 and odds ratio = 2.900, p < 0.001, respectively). However, the overall survival rate of patients after ED survival (n = 99) was 9.9%, and only 21.2% (n = 21) of them survived more than 1 day after leaving the ED.

Conclusion

OCPR could be considered in situations where appropriate indications exist. The survival benefit was observed in critically ill patients with penetrating chest trauma who show no signs of life. By enhancing ED survival, OCPR may also contribute to overall survival improvement.
First implementation of dynamic oxygen-17 (17O) magnetic resonance imaging at 7 Tesla during neuronal stimulation in the human brain
Authors: Ebersberger Louise , Kratzer Fabian J. , Franke Vanessa L. , Nagel Armin M. , Niesporek Sebastian C. , Korzowski Andreas , Ladd Mark E. , Schlemmer Heinz-Peter , Paech Daniel , Platt Tanja
Published: September 2023

Objective

First implementation of dynamic oxygen-17 (17O) MRI at 7 Tesla (T) during neuronal stimulation in the human brain.

Methods

Five healthy volunteers underwent a three-phase 17O gas (17O2) inhalation experiment. Combined right-side visual stimulus and right-hand finger tapping were used to achieve neuronal stimulation in the left cerebral hemisphere. Data analysis included the evaluation of the relative partial volume (PV)-corrected time evolution of absolute 17O water (H217O) concentration and of the relative signal evolution without PV correction. Statistical analysis was performed using a one-tailed paired t test. Blood oxygen level-dependent (BOLD) experiments were performed to validate the stimulation paradigm.

Results

The BOLD maps showed significant activity in the stimulated left visual and sensorimotor cortex compared to the non-stimulated right side. PV correction of 17O MR data resulted in high signal fluctuations with a noise level of 10% due to small regions of interest (ROI), impeding further quantitative analysis. Statistical evaluation of the relative H217O signal with PV correction (p = 0.168) and without (p = 0.382) did not show significant difference between the stimulated left and non-stimulated right sensorimotor ROI.

Discussion

The change of cerebral oxygen metabolism induced by sensorimotor and visual stimulation is not large enough to be reliably detected with the current setup and methodology of dynamic 17O MRI at 7 T.
Achieving competitive advantage through technology-driven proactive supply chain risk management: an empirical study
Authors: Jegan Joseph Jerome Jude , Sonwaney Vandana , Bryde David , Graham Gary
Published: September 2023

Whilst there has been previous work focused on the role of technologies in enhancing supply chain risk management and, through such an enhancement, increased competitive advantage, there is a research gap in terms of understanding the links between external institution pressures and internal adoption factors. We use institutional theory (IT) and the resource based view (RBV) of the firm to address this gap, developing a framework showing how a proactive technology-driven approach to supply chain risk management, combining both external with internal factors, can result in competitive advantage. We validate the framework through analysis of quantitative data collected via a survey of 218 firms in the manufacturing and logistics industry sectors in India. We specifically focus on the technologies of track-and-trace (T&T) and big data analytics (BDA). Our findings show that firms investing in T&T/BDA technologies can gain operational benefits in terms of uninterrupted information processing, reduced time disruptions and uninterrupted supply, which in turn gives them competitive advantage. We add further novelty to our study by demonstrating the moderating influences of organisational culture and flexibility on the relationship between the technological capabilities and the operational benefits.
Stieleria tagensis sp. nov., a novel member of the phylum Planctomycetota isolated from Tagus River in Portugal
Authors: Godinho Ofélia , Klimek Dominika , Jackiewicz Adrianna , Guedes Bárbara , Almeida Eduarda , Calisto Rita , Vitorino Inês Rosado , Santos José Diogo Neves , González Ignacio , Lobo-da-Cunha Alexandre , Calusinska Magdalena , Quinteira Sandra , Lage Olga Maria
Published: September 2023

A bacterial strain was isolated from a brackish water sample of Tagus river, Alcochete, Portugal and was designated TO1_6T. It forms light pink colonies on M13 medium supplemented with N-acetylglucosamine. Cells are pear-shaped to spherical, form rosettes and divide by budding. Strain TO1_6T presents a mesophilic and neutrophilic profile, with optimum growth at 20 to 25 °C and pH 7.0 to 7.5, and vitamin supplementation is not required to promote its growth. The genome of the novel isolate is 7.77 Mbp in size and has a DNA G + C content of 56.3%. Based on its 16S rRNA gene sequence, this strain is affiliated with the phylum Planctomycetota. Further taxonomic characterization using additional phylogenetic markers, namely rpoB gene sequence (encoding the β-subunit of the DNA-dependent RNA polymerase), as well as Percentage of conserved proteins, average nucleotide identity and average amino acid identity, suggest the affiliation of strain TO1_6T to the genus Stieleria, a recently described taxon in the family Pirellulaceae, order Pirellulales and class Planctomycetia. Based on the genotypic, phylogenetic and physiological characterization, we here describe a new species represented by the type strain TO1_6T (= CECT 30432T, = LMG 32465T), for which the name Stieleria tagensis sp. nov. is proposed.
UVS: underwater visual SLAM—a robust monocular visual SLAM system for lifelong underwater operations
Authors: Leonardi Marco , Stahl Annette , Brekke Edmund Førland , Ludvigsen Martin
Published: September 2023

In this paper, a visual simultaneous localization and mapping (VSLAM/visual SLAM) system called underwater visual SLAM (UVS) system is presented, specifically tailored for camera-only navigation in natural underwater environments. The UVS system is particularly optimized towards precision and robustness, as well as lifelong operations. We build upon Oriented features from accelerated segment test and Rotated Binary robust independent elementary features simultaneous localization and mapping (ORB-SLAM) and improve the accuracy by performing an exact search in the descriptor space during triangulation and the robustness by utilizing a unified initialization method and a motion model. In addition, we present a scale-agnostic station-keeping detection, which aims to optimize the map and poses during station-keeping, and a pruning strategy, which takes into account the point’s age and distance to the active keyframe. An exhaustive evaluation is presented to the reader, using a total of 38 in-air and underwater sequences.
Law enforcement, social demands and reputation risks as drivers of compliance functions: a comparative analysis of the largest banks’ disclosures in the UK and Brazil
Authors: de Souza Myrna Calmon Santos , de Souza Rodrigo Silva
Published: September 2023

Given the recent recurring cases of financial crime worldwide, national and international regulators have enacted new regulatory instruments intended to prevent or inhibit unlawful acts by banks and their representatives. These stricter regulations regarding the operations of financial institutions have reinforced the importance of best practices and the role of compliance within banks. Nonetheless, regulations regarding compliance structures and functions are not yet mandatory and give great flexibility to banks to define how they will set their compliance programmes. This research aims to understand how compliance functions have been implemented in the two largest banks in the UK and Brazil as a governance mechanism to fight financial crimes such as bribery and corruption. Document analyses of websites and financial reports of these banks examine disclosures provided by these corporations and shed light on the main drivers influencing their transparency regarding compliance functions, roles and responsibilities and their connections to the bank’s operations and profitability goals. This research demonstrates that the implementation and enhancement of compliance functions in UK and Brazilian banks are driven by attempts to respond to regulatory requirements, social demands and as a reputational risk instrument, reflecting different levels of development in each institution. The maturity of these disclosures demonstrates that Brazilian banks present a more reactive attitude, justifying their investments in compliance according to minimum law requirements, while banks in the UK tend to have a more proactive perspective on their compliance initiatives, reinforcing their importance for the bank’s competitive advantage and long-term continuity beyond regulatory compliance.
Remote Sensing of the Light-Obscuring Smoke Properties in Real-Scale Fires Using a Photometric Measurement Method
Authors: Börger Kristian , Belt Alexander , Schultze Thorsten , Arnold Lukas
Published: September 2023

A new photometric measurement method for the determination of temporally and spatially resolved light extinction coefficients in laboratory fire tests was recently presented. The approach relies on capturing the change in intensity of individual light sources (LEDs) due to fire smoke using a commercially available digital camera. Comparing the results for red light LEDs to measurements of the well-established MIREX system indicates the model is capable of capturing the investigated phenomena. However, a significant underestimation of this reference measurement taken in the infrared range is inconsistent with the expected increase of the extinction coefficients with lower wavelengths. In the context of new experimental investigations, this deficiency was remedied by evaluating multible colour channels of RAW image data instead of the previously used JPG files. Furthermore, extending the experimental setup by several LED strips as well as a second camera allows to verify the hypothesis of a homogeneous smoke layering. The study covers eight experiments including n-heptane fuel in style of the well documented EN 54 TF 5 testfire as well as two additional experiments with an n-heptane-toluene mixture. Considering spatial resolution as well as the high reproducibility of the results, the method appears to be a convenient tool for the validation of numerical visibility models. Nevertheless, a sensitivity analysis identified uncertainties that need to be addressed in upcoming investigations to further improve the accuracy.
Understanding Esports-related Betting and Gambling: A Systematic Review of the Literature
Authors: Mangat Harshdeep S. , Griffiths Mark D , Yu Shu M. , Felvinczi Katalin , Ngetich Ronald K. , Demetrovics Zsolt , Czakó Andrea
Published: September 2023

Esports gambling has steadily grown in popularity alongside esports itself. While research has been increasing in the field of esports-related gambling, no study has yet reviewed the relevant literature on esports gambling. The present study aimed to comprehensively review all empirical research conducted in the wider field of esports gambling. A systematic review following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines was undertaken using PsycINFO, PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases. Only empirical studies were included and were also assessed for potential biases using the ROBUST guidelines. A total of 30 studies from eight countries were included in the review. Esports gamblers were found more likely to be young males, likely to score high on problematic gambling scales, and likely to belong to households speaking a non-English language at home in English speaking countries. Esports gamblers are a unique type of gambling population, with rare characteristics and behaviors compared to other types of gamblers. Given the limited number of studies, there is a need for further research in this field to understand these populations, as well as the need for longitudinal research.
Phytotoxicity of coal waste elutriates (Douro Coalfield, North Portugal) in Lactuca sativa
Authors: Diogo Bárbara S. , Narayan Aracelis , Mansilha Catarina , Marques Jorge Espinha , Flores Deolinda , Antunes Sara C.
Published: September 2023

One of the most important mining areas in the Douro Carboniferous Basin is the Pejão Coalfield. In the summer of 2017, a wildfire promoted the ignition and self-burning some of the coal waste piles in the area and caused important environmental changes, promoting a new heterogenic pedological zonation. This study aims to assess the ecotoxicological effects of 25 soil elutriates from these different soil types in seed germination and individual (emergence, growth, and morphologic alterations) and subindividual parameters in Lactuca sativa. The different evaluated endpoints were differently affected regarding the soil elutriate revealing the high heterogeneity of soil characteristics. The presence of different potentially toxic elements (e.g., Cd, Cr, Pb, Zn) in soil elutriates, even in low concentrations, caused effects on L. sativa development. Unburned coal wastes and downhill soil elutriates were able to inhibit the germination of L. sativa and affect them individually and sub-individually (decrease in size, biomass, and presence of morphological alterations). Additionally, it was observed that all soil elutriates induce a decrease in root size. The results highlight the importance of using elutriate samples in phytotoxicity studies of coal mining waste, since the tailings lixiviate may reduce plant establishment and growth, affecting the terrestrial ecosystems. The integrated use of seed germination assays with the analysis of morphological and biochemical alterations in plants proved to be sensitive parameters to evaluate the phytotoxicity of coal mining wastes.
The Dynamics of Psychological Distress in the Trajectory of At-Risk and Problem Gambling: Results from a Prospective Population-Based Longitudinal Study in Australia
Authors: Yeung Kristal , Wraith Darren , Gatton Michelle
Published: September 2023

This study employed parallel growth curve modelling to examine the changes in both psychological distress and at-risk and problem gambling as a development process. We used a prospective longitudinal population-based study to provide further insights beyond treatment samples and cross-sectional studies. A secondary data analysis was conducted by extracting a sample of 3460 Victorian adults from the Victorian Gambling Study 2008–2011. Findings suggested that psychological distress was a consistent risk factor for at-risk and problem gambling, as measured by the problem gambling severity index (PGSI), after controlling for other risk factors such as sex, age, histories of at-risk and problem gambling, and the experience of trauma. A more rapid increase in psychological distress over time was related to a more rapid increase in the PGSI trajectory. It is concluded that this study supports a positive association in the development trends of problem gambling severity and psychological distress in individuals who engaged in gambling. The association persists after adjusting for histories of gambling problem risk and the experience of trauma in life. The implications of the study suggest addressing the comorbidity of problem gambling risk and psychological distress in treatment and prevention, and the development of dual-diagnosis treatment programs.
Classification of breast lesions in ultrasound images using deep convolutional neural networks: transfer learning versus automatic architecture design
Authors: AlZoubi Alaa , Lu Feng , Zhu Yicheng , Ying Tao , Ahmed Mohmmed , Du Hongbo
Published: September 2023

Deep convolutional neural networks (DCNNs) have demonstrated promising performance in classifying breast lesions in 2D ultrasound (US) images. Exiting approaches typically use pre-trained models based on architectures designed for natural images with transfer learning. Fewer attempts have been made to design customized architectures specifically for this purpose. This paper presents a comprehensive evaluation on transfer learning based solutions and automatically designed networks, analyzing the accuracy and robustness of different recognition models in three folds. First, we develop six different DCNN models (BNet, GNet, SqNet, DsNet, RsNet, IncReNet) based on transfer learning. Second, we adapt the Bayesian optimization method to optimize a CNN network (BONet) for classifying breast lesions. A retrospective dataset of 3034 US images collected from various hospitals is then used for evaluation. Extensive tests show that the BONet outperforms other models, exhibiting higher accuracy (83.33%), lower generalization gap (1.85%), shorter training time (66 min), and less model complexity (approximately 0.5 million weight parameters). We also compare the diagnostic performance of all models against that by three experienced radiologists. Finally, we explore the use of saliency maps to explain the classification decisions made by different models. Our investigation shows that saliency maps can assist in comprehending the classification decisions.

Graphical Abstract
Inertial Halpern-type method for solving split feasibility and fixed point problems via dynamical stepsize in real Banach spaces
Authors: Ugwunnadi G. C. , Abass H. A. , Aphane M. , Oyewole O. K.
Published: September 2023

In this paper, we introduce a modified Halpern inertial method for approximating solutions of split feasibility problem and fixed point problem of Bregman strongly nonexpansive mappings in the framework of p-uniformly convex and uniformly smooth real Banach spaces. We establish a strong convergence result for the sequence generated by our iterative scheme under some mild conditions without the computation of the operator norm. We state some consequences and present some examples to show the efficiency and implementation of our proposed method. The result discussed in this paper extends and generalizes many recent results in this direction. Our result extends and complements some related results in literature.
Co-clustering contaminated data: a robust model-based approach
Authors: Fibbi Edoardo , Perrotta Domenico , Torti Francesca , Van Aelst Stefan , Verdonck Tim
Published: September 2023

The exploration and analysis of large high-dimensional data sets calls for well-thought techniques to extract the salient information from the data, such as co-clustering. Latent block models cast co-clustering in a probabilistic framework that extends finite mixture models to the two-way setting. Real-world data sets often contain anomalies which could be of interestper seand may make the results provided by standard, non-robust procedures unreliable. Also estimation of latent block models can be heavily affected by contaminated data. We propose an algorithm to compute robust estimates for latent block models. Experiments on both simulated and real data show that our method is able to resist high levels of contamination and can provide additional insight into the data by highlighting possible anomalies.
Connecting mathematics to STEM education: interdisciplinary teaching and learning facilitation
Authors: Makonye Judah P. , Moodley Nageshwari Pam
Published: September 2023

In interdisciplinary Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) education, empirical evidence is required that points to the educational contribution of mathematics. Specifically, researchers are not clear how mathematics weaves itself through the STEM education meta-discourse. This article contributes to pedagogical practices in educational institutions where STEM has been newly introduced - What are the perceptions and experiences of South African teachers on interdisciplinary STEM education, and how do mathematics and interdisciplinary STEM discourses leverage each other at schools of specialisation (SoS) in South Africa? Participant teachers were drawn from ten SoS in South Africa. SoS are STEM-dense schools in South Africa’s Gauteng Province, the country’s industrial and commercial hub. Interview data was collected on teachers’ experiences and practices to explore the affordances of Mathematics and other STEM disciplines to influencing curriculum advancement. Situated cognition, mathematics as explorations and flow theory informed this qualitative study. In the findings, technology was regarded as raising learner motivation and mathematical achievement. Important to the study is that participants have a high regard for mathematics’ role in interdisciplinary STEM education. In the study, teachers had no autonomy to pursue the STEM agenda, as they were bound to adhere to a prescribed curriculum, which hardly refers to implementation of interdisciplinary STEM education. Various recommendations are proffered, such as maintaining the positive perceptions participants have on the role of mathematics in STEM curricula. The research calls for equality and equity of all the STEM disciplines, as one STEM curricula cannot succeed without the other.
Energy-efficient integrated silicon optical phased array
Authors: Qiu Huaqing , Liu Yong , Meng Xiansong , Guan Xiaowei , Ding Yunhong , Hu Hao
Published: September 2023

An optical phased array (OPA) is a promising non-mechanical technique for beam steering in solid-state light detection and ranging systems. The performance of the OPA largely depends on the phase shifter, which affects power consumption, insertion loss, modulation speed, and footprint. However, for a thermo-optic phase shifter, achieving good performance in all aspects is challenging due to trade-offs among these aspects. In this work, we propose and demonstrate two types of energy-efficient optical phase shifters that overcome these trade-offs and achieve a well-balanced performance in all aspects. Additionally, the proposed round-spiral phase shifter is robust in fabrication and fully compatible with deep ultraviolet (DUV) processes, making it an ideal building block for large-scale photonic integrated circuits (PICs). Using the high-performance phase shifter, we propose a periodic OPA with low power consumption, whose maximum electric power consumption within the field of view is only 0.33 W. Moreover, we designed Gaussian power distribution in both the azimuthal ($$\varphi$$φ) and polar ($$\theta$$θ) directions and experimentally achieved a large sidelobe suppression ratio of 15.1 and 25 dB, respectively.

Graphical Abstract
Microstructure, Corrosion and Electrochemical Properties of Cu/SiC Composites in 3.5 wt% NaCl Solution
Authors: Sadawy M. M. , Fayed Saad. M. , Tayea Mahmoud , El-Batanony I. G.
Published: September 2023

This study investigated the role of SiC as a reinforcement on microstructure, corrosion, and electrochemical properties of Cu/xSiC (x = 0, 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, and 30 vol% SiC) composites. The powder metallurgy route was used to fabricate Cu/SiC composite. The distribution of SiC reinforcing particles in the Cu matrix and their interfaces were investigated using optical and SEM/EDS microscopes. The various phases of Cu strengthened with SiC particles were detected using an X-ray diffractometer. The anticorrosion behavior and electrochemical properties of composites were investigated using various electrochemical techniques in 3.5 wt% NaCl solution. The electrochemical studies showed that the inclusion of SiC particles in the Cu matrix improved the resistance to corrosion. It was found that as the reinforcing particles increased to 20 vol%, the corrosion potential increased from − 240 to − 183 mVAg/AgCl, and the corrosion current density decreased from 5.01 to 0.02 µA cm−2, while the passive current density decreased from 17.58 to 4.74 × 10–4 A cm−2. This behavior resulted from the nucleation and production of a good protective layer. On another side, increasing reinforcing particles over 20 vol%, the corrosion current density increased from 0.05 to 0.63 µA cm−2, while the corrosion potential shifted from − 196 to − 206 mVAg/AgCl.

Graphical Abstract
Stories of Challenge in South Africa: changes in the enabling environment for nutrition among young children (1994–2021)
Authors: Drimie Scott , van den Bold Mara , du Plessis Lisanne , Casu Laura
Published: September 2023

Despite important nutrition-related policy and programmatic improvements in South Africa, rates of stunting among young children remain unacceptably high, while rates of overweight and obesity in this same population group are simultaneously on the rise. This study sought to examine the changes in the enabling environment for nutrition aimed at young children in South Africa by drawing on a literature review, policy mapping, and stakeholder interviews, for the time period from the end of apartheid in 1994 to 2021. The study focuses on changes and drivers of change at national level but also in three provinces: Western Cape, North West, and KwaZulu-Natal. The study ultimately seeks to better understand the changes and challenges with regards to policy and commitment to nutrition, coordination structures at various levels, and how these led to or did not lead to implementation and impact in these provinces. The study ends with reflections on what these findings mean for food and nutrition security in South Africa going forward, as well as what they might mean for other countries with similar contexts.
Radiation Management for Breast Cancer After Neoadjuvant Therapy
Authors: Facer Benjin D , Wang Ton , Weed Christina , Pariser Ashley , Cherian Mathew , Johnson Kai C , Quiroga Dionisia , Stover Daniel , Obeng-Gyasi Samilia , Agnese Doreen , Oppong Bridget A , Goyal Sharad , Andraos Therese , Beyer Sasha , Jhawar Sachin R
Published: September 2023

Purpose of Review

Neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) utilization is an important part of breast cancer therapy. Recent advances call into question the optimal role of radiotherapy after NAC, as many radiation studies were performed without NAC. This review was conducted to understand the current data, outstanding questions and ongoing trials related to radiotherapy after NAC.

Recent Findings

Response to NAC is associated with promising clinical outcomes, particularly in triple-negative and HER2+ breast cancer. Retrospective data suggest that modification of radiotherapy based on tumor response to NAC may be appropriate, though caution is advised without prospective randomized evidence. NSABP B-51 and Alliance A011202 will investigate the management of nodal disease in this setting. Future trials will examine the optimal sequencing of treatments.

The personalization of adjuvant radiotherapy based on response to neoadjuvant chemotherapy is an attractive goal that is currently being evaluated in multiple clinical trials, including NSABP B-51.
Psychological Safety for Mental Health in Elite Sport: A Theoretically Informed Model
Authors: Walton Courtney C. , Purcell Rosemary , Pilkington Vita , Hall Kate , Kenttä Göran , Vella Stewart , Rice Simon M.
Published: September 2023

Elite sports contexts are highly pressurised and frequently enforce a win-at-all-costs approach. This narrow focus on performance outcomes can potentially contribute in negative ways to the mental health of those within these environments. In this Current Opinion paper, we propose a model that outlines how key elements contributing to psychologically safe or unsafe environments may contribute to better or worse mental health outcomes, respectively. In an environment in which individuals feel safe to show their authentic selves rather than ‘wear a mask’, different experiences of mental health are likely to be normalised, help-seeking behaviour increased, and thus, mental health outcomes enhanced. We outline how sports teams and organisations can contribute to this through the creation of appropriate policies and procedures, in addition to leaders modelling and reinforcing positive cultural norms. It is intended that the theoretical model can inform stakeholders in elite sport as well as future research directions.
Spirituality and heart failure: a systematic review
Authors: Cilona Laura , Veronese Nicola , Lalicata Diego , Tantillo Francesca , Naro Liliana , Dominguez Ligia J. , Barbagallo Mario
Published: September 2023

Objectives

Heart failure (HF) is a frequent chronic disease with disturbing symptoms and complex treatments, associated with depression and lower quality of life. Some studies have shown that spirituality and religiosity may be relevant in these patients. We aimed to systematically review the medical literature on spirituality and religiosity in patients with HF.

Methods

Major databases for studies investigating the effect of spirituality and religiosity in people affected by HF were searched from inception until 26th April 2023. Studies with clear definition of spirituality or religiosity, validated diagnosis of HF, and reporting outcomes of interest (i.e., incidence of mortality, cardiovascular outcomes, and quality of life) were included.

Results

Among 810 non-duplicate records, we screened the full texts of 25 works. After excluding 18 studies, we included 7 studies (3 observational and 4 interventional) comprising 1234 HF patients followed up over a median of 3 months. Definitions of spirituality and religiosity were heterogeneous among the studies. The intervention studies showed improvements in quality-of-life parameters, some cardiovascular outcomes, or mortality, and the observational studies showed significant associations with these outcomes.

Conclusions

Despite the extreme heterogeneity of the populations included, of the definition of spirituality and religiosity, and of the interventions in the few studies that included it, all the studies reported some positive associations with the outcomes examined. Spirituality/religiosity is an aspect not generally taken into account in the usual practice of medicine and can potentially contribute to improving the conditions of patients with HF, a chronic disease with unfavorable prognosis.
A coupled fluid-mechanical interaction model for controlled gas migration mechanism by dilatancy effect in saturated bentonite
Authors: Guo Jingna , Zhang Qi , Chen Liang , Cao Shengfei , Xie Jingli , Li Qiang , Chen Zhanqing
Published: September 2023

A gas breakthrough in saturated bentonite is relevant to the safety of high-level radioactive waste repositories. The study of gas transport mechanisms in saturated bentonite is very important for the safety assessment of repositories. This paper proposed a coupled fluid-mechanical interaction model for predicting and simulating the path of gas transport and gas breakthrough in saturated Gaomiaozi bentonite. The model considered the effect of deformation and damage of bentonite on its permeability and introduced pore pressure into the deformation equation of bentonite. The damage coefficient was also introduced into the permeability evolution equation by combining the Mohr–Coulomb criterion, the maximum tensile stress criterion and the damage evolution. In addition, considering the heterogeneity of the soil, the Weibull distribution function was introduced to assign differential values to material parameters of the cells in the model. The numerical simulation of the bentonite stress field and seepage field was realized by the joint MATLAB and COMSOL secondary development, and the evolution law of the pore path in bentonite was explored under a flexible boundary. The gas breakthrough pressure and permeability pressures were calculated at various gas injection from a gas injection experiment into bentonite with flexible boundaries. Finally, the rationality and applicability of the model were verified by comparing the numerically calculated gas breakthrough pressure and permeability with experimental values.
Informality in Zimbabwe’s Urban Areas and the Resilience of Indigenous Solutions to Risk During the Pandemic
Authors: Masuku Sikanyiso , Benhura Abigail , Gronbach Lena
Published: September 2023

This study examined the role of networks and reciprocated assistance in curtailing the risk arising from an absence of centralised social protection programmes. Given how non-state interventions constitute a key part of the endogenous networks to social risk reduction, we also explored how the knowledge of exogenous emergency relief is localised and utilised. In examining these issues, in-depth interviews were done with a purposively selected sample of informal workers, their representative associations, and development partners. Amongst other factors, the findings showed that (i) informal mutual assistance networks are more adaptive, responsive, and inclusive and thus more preferred over exogenous relief — with complementarity between the two being low (ii) ex-post bereavement mutual assistance networks have stronger ties with a more versatile, knowledge sharing–centred utility that transcends the circulation/sharing of cash, food, and credit. The findings contribute to the scholarship on social welfare rights and networks in the context of reciprocated assistance and emergency relief.
Effective utilization of cashew nut shell pyro oil blended with optimum amount of Al2O3 and TiO2 nanoparticles in DI engine
Authors: Kuppusamy Venkatesan , Venkatesan Harish , Jayaraman Kuberan , Buragadda Kiran Kumar
Published: September 2023

The present research activity's major objective is to improve the performance and emission characteristics of diesel engines that burn pyro oil and cashew nut shell nanoparticles. This work identifies the nanoparticles that should be added to cashew nut shell pyro oil to allow it to be utilized efficiently in compression ignition engines. In this experiment, the two nanoparticles, Al2O3 and TiO2, were mixed with cashew nut shell pyro oil. For testing purposes, nanoparticles were combined with cashew nut shell pyro oil at various concentrations, including 150 and 200 ppm. The criterion for picking the best combination was stability. To improve the optimal performance of the nanoparticle-blended oil, the cashew nut shell pyro oil was emulsified. The nanoparticles, which also act as an enhancing agent, speed up the combustion process. The combination of pyro oil, cashew nut shell emulsion, and nanoparticles improved performance and reduced emissions. The brake thermal efficiency values for 200 ppm Al2O3 and TiO2 mixed emulsified cashew nut shell pyro oil were 29.6% and 29.4%, respectively, whereas the values for diesel and cashew nut shell pyro oil were 31.6% and 29.8%. When comparing cashew nut shell pyro oil to oil with 200 ppm Al2O3 and TiO2, the smoke value was found to be reduced by 58.8% and 56.7%, respectively. It was discovered that cashew nutshell pyro oil with 200 ppm Al2O3 and TiO2 had 35.3% and 34.96% reduced hydrocarbon emissions respectively.
Effects of Potassium and Nanocapsule of Potassium on Pepper Growth and Physiological Changes in High-Temperature Stress
Authors: Halaji Bhnaz , Haghighi Maryam , Amiri Azam , Kappel Noémi
Published: September 2023

Abiotic stresses have been observed to cause alterations in the morphology, physiology, and biochemistry of plants. However, in recent years, the utilization of nanocompounds has emerged as a strategy to induce modifications in multiple facets of plant biology. These modifications include plant growth, nutrient absorption, the production of significant secondary metabolites, and the improvement of plants’ resistance against both abiotic and biotic stress factors. A completely randomized factorial experiment with 12 replications was created. Potassium sources including control, potassium (K), and nanocapsule-potassium (N-K) with concentration 1 µM and temperature treatments including control temperature (25 °C) and high-temperature stress (35 °C) were applied as treatments. In the control treatment, proline was increased at the high temperature, whereas proline was reduced at both treated temperatures by K and N-K. High temperature raised electrolyte leakage (EL), which peaked in the control treatment but was lowered by K and N-K. Temperature-dependent increase in glucose and fructose was observed in control and K treatments when the temperature was 35 °C, but no significant difference was observed between different levels of K at 35 °C. When K was not applied at high temperatures, the main stress indicators such as antioxidant activity (DPPH) and malondialdehyde (MDA) rose significantly, as did the water potential and linoleic acid. When high temperatures were applied, nanocapsule-potassium applied in high temperatures had the lowest stress indices. In conclusion, stress indices diminish when nanocapsule-potassium is applied under high temperatures. Additionally, nanocapsule-potassium applied at high temperatures was preferable to K applied at high temperatures in terms of pepper growth and resistance measures. Likewise, the application of nanocapsule-potassium at high temperatures alters the fatty acid composition of membranes and antioxidant enzymes.