bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Burden of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 and its Seasonal Trends in Patients Attending a Tertiary Healthcare Centre in Rajasthan: A Retrospective Observational Study
Authors: Swamy M Anjaneya , Bohra Shweta , Andhale Jagannath Dnyanoba , Sharma Megha , Kulshreshtha Anjali
Published: November 2023

Introduction: The pandemic of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has drastically affected the global population, leading to high rates of morbidity and mortality. This virus originated in China had quickly spread to different countries worldwide, paralysing healthcare systems. Alongside supportive therapy, isolation, and contact tracing, vaccines have also played a crucial role in rescuing the human population from the virus. Aim: To evaluate the burden of SARS-CoV-2 and its seasonal trends. Materials and Methods: This retrospective observational study was conducted in the Department of Microbiology at the Ananta Institute of Medical Sciences and Research Centre in Rajsamand, Rajasthan, India. Data was collected from July 2020 to September 2022 and analysed from January 2023 to March 2023. The study included a sample size of 14,050. Nasopharyngeal and throat swab samples were collected into a single tube of Viral Transport Medium (VTM). Ribonucleic Acid (RNA) was extracted from the VTM, and real-time Reverse Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR) was performed using different kits approved by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR). Results were interpreted according to the manufacturer’s instructions. A Chisquared test was performed using GraphPad Prism version 9.2.0.332. A p-value of <0.05 was considered significant. Results: A total of 14,050 samples were evaluated, of which 2,861 (20.36%) tested positive for SARS-CoV-2. The highest positivity rate of 581 (4.13%) was observed in the age group of 41-50 years (p-value <0.0001). The maximum positivity for SARS-CoV-2 was found among individuals aged 21-60 years, accounting for 2,086 (14.85%) cases. Among the samples obtained from the Inpatient Department (IPD) and Outpatient Department (OPD), 913 (13.83%) (p-value=0.0014) and 1,948 (26.16%) tested positive for SARS-CoV-2, respectively. Male patients accounted for 1,869 (21%) (p-value=0.0194) positive cases, while female patients accounted for 992 (19.26%) (p-value <0.0001) positive cases. The highest positivity rate was recorded in April 2021, with 921 (6.55%) cases. Seasonal trends of SARS-CoV-2 showed two major peaks and a minor peak between July 2020 and September 2022. Symptomatic patients had a positivity rate of 987 (31.75%), while asymptomatic patients had a rate of 1,874 (17.13%) (p-value <0.0001). Conclusion: Enhanced precautionary measures are required for individuals aged 21-60 years, as they are more vulnerable to SARS-CoV-2. Asymptomatic patients had a positivity rate of 17.13%. Given the mixed trend of seasonal transmission of SARS-CoV-2, continuous surveillance of the virus is necessary. The study results will be useful for epidemiological purposes and for planning strategies aimed at reducing the duration of the pandemic.
Academic Distractions and Students’ Attitude towards Learning in a Nigerian University
Authors: Uyanga U. D.  , Davies K. U.  , Offiong M. A.
Published: November 2023

The main purpose of the study is to find out the factors influencing academic distractions on students’ attitude towards learning in University of Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. Four research questions and hypotheses were formulated based on the variables of the study. The research design of the study was descriptive survey. The study was conducted in University of Uyo, Akwa Ibom State. Simple random technique was used in selecting three hundred (300) undergraduate students from the campus that runs a full time programme. Fifty from Faculty of Environmental Studies, Fifty from Faculty of Business Administration, Fifty from Faculty of Education, Fifty from Faculty of Social Sciences, Fifty from Faculty of Engineering and Fifty from Faculty of Science. A structured questionnaire titled ‘students’ academic distractions and attitude towards learning questionnaire’ (SADATLQ) was used to collect data for the study. Data generated were analyzed using Mean and Standard Deviation for answering the research questions while Independent T-test was used in testing the hypotheses. The findings revealed that, use of social media, gambling, peer group, and frequently listening to music by students’ influence students’ attitude towards learning in University of Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. The study concluded by recommending among many others that, Orientation officers should on the day of interactive sessions with the students encourage the students to make friends with other students that will help in promoting positive attitude towards learning.
Assessment of the Level of Biodiversity Integration in Environmental Impact Assessment Reports in Nigeria
Authors: Michael Richard N. , Nwachukwu Eunice O. , Nnadede Kasarachi S.
Published: November 2023

Inclusion of biodiversity into Environmental Impact assessment (EIA) process has been recognised as a means of addressing biodiversity loss. This study evaluated the extent of biodiversity inclusion in Nigeria`s EIA reports. One Hundred (100) sectoral EIA reports from Power, Manufacturing, Agric/Roads, Petroleum, and Infrastructure were assessed using the Biodiversity Inclusion Index obtained from 6 blended criteria and 38 attributes used across the globe for similar research. Results showed: above average assessment of biodiversity in the Project areas, integration of different levels of biodiversity elements, elucidation of short and long-term impacts on biodiversity, description of impact identification methodology/approaches as well as the rationale for using them. There were clear identification of project vulnerable stakeholders / beneficiaries of ecosystem services and allocation of responsibilities for managing impacts. In contrast, maps of the project area did not highlight biodiversity sensitive areas, urban and other industrial establishments, and projects, including distances to coastal area, water bodies and their ecologically sensitivities. There was insufficient identification of biodiversity components likely to be affected by project activities to enable impact prediction; non or poor identification and assessment of species habitats; limited explanation of ecosystem interactions and services rendered by endemic species. The study found gaps on the description of primary, secondary, and cumulative biodiversity impacts at ecosystem, species, and genetic levels as well as in species compositions and functions. Thus, specific measures for biodiversity conservation / restoration plans as well as financial allocation for biodiversity related action plan were poorly provided or non-existent. The results indicated biodiversity inclusion mean score of Power (65.7%), Petroleum (60.5%), Manufacturing (53.7%), Infrastructure (53.1%) and Agric/Road (42.5%)) with overall mean of 55.7%. The results confirmed significant biodiversity inclusion mean difference between Agric/Roads, Power, and Petroleum sectors. Recommendations were made to improve EIA processes in Nigeria by domesticating advancements in biodiversity conservation.
Multidrug Resistance in Klebsiella species Isolated from Liquid Herbal Remedies in Port Harcourt, Nigeria
Authors: Ndukwu Chidi L. C. , Akani Nedie P.
Published: November 2023

Aims: Klebsiella are lactose fermenting, encapsulated, non-motile, oxidase-negative, gram negative rods; belonging to the family Enterobacteriaceae and the non-taxonomic group, coliforms. Klebsiella isolates numbering 109, recovered from three categories of liquid herbal medicines were analyzed with the intent of ascertaining the prevalence of multidrug resistance (MDR) strains.

Study Design: The research is an observational, descriptive, prospective and cross-sectional research. The samples of herbal remedies procured from randomly selected outlets within Port Harcourt metropolis in a completely randomized block design. The analysis was conducted at the Department of Microbiology laboratory of Rivers State University, Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria.

Methodology: The antimicrobial resistance (AMR) patterns of Klebsiella pneumoniae and Klebsiella oxytoca were determined against 15 antimicrobial agents in common use in the area, namely amoxicillin clavulanate(30ug/ul), ceftriaxone (30ug/ul), cefuroxime (30ug/ul), cephalexin (30ug/ul), chloramphenicol (30ug/ul), ciprofloxacin (5 ug/ul), cotrimoxazole (25ug/ul), doxycycline (30ug/ul), erythromycin (15 ug/ul), gentamycin (10 ug/ul), levofloxacin (5 ug/ul) norfloxacin (10 ug/ul), ofloxacin (5 ug/ul), peflacine (5 ug/ul), streptomycin (10 ug/ul) (0xoid/Thermo Fisher Scientific, UK).; by seeding the test isolates on Muellar-Hinton agar (oxoid) and incubating for 18 to 24 hours.

Results: The cumulative resistance profile for all strains was 45.4%. Doxycycline was the least effective antimicrobial, being resisted by 63.3% of the strains, followed by cotrimoxazole (61.5%), erythromycin (58.7%), chloramphenicol (57.8%) and norfloxacin (50.0%). Overall, 82.6% of the Klebsiella strains were MDR, including extensively drug resistant-XDR, (52.3%) and pandrug resistance-PDR (1.8%). Non-multidrug resistant-NMDR strains were 16.0%. MDR strains constitute 81.6% of Klebsiella pneumoniae which includes XDR (48.8%) and PDR (2.0%); while NMDR strains were 18.4%. The MDR strains amounted to 90.9% of the Klebsiella oxytoca strains all of which were XDR.

Conclusion: This study has contributed in establishing that liquid herbal remedies are contaminated with multidrug resistant strains of Klebsiella Species. It has also shown that multidrug resistant strains of the bacteria are on the increase and could pose a great threat to public health.
Delineation of Subsurface Migration Pathways of Petroleum Contaminants in Ikarama, Okordia Clan of Bayelsa State, Nigeria
Authors: Thankgod Arekumo , Tamunosiki Dieokuma
Published: November 2023

One well-known cause of groundwater contamination in developing nations that produce oil is oil leaks. Oil leaks are typically caused by a variety of circumstances, such as inadequate management and upkeep of oil facilities, equipment failure, and pipeline vandalism by oil criminals. This research evaluates the movement of underground oil contaminants in an oil production field at the Okordia clan's Ikarama hamlet in the Yenagoa Local Government Area in the state of Bayelsa. Schlumberger array was utilized in order to apply the electrical resistivity tomography technique along three (3) VES surrounding the oil spill spot. Values for resistivity were found. In the locations under study, three (3) vertical electrical soundings (VES) were conducted. Comparison of theoretical soil resistivity to measured fluid resistivity for various caption exchange Values of capacity have been researched. The resistivity values, when reversed, ranged from 0.17 m to 146.8 m. The hydrocarbon contamination (oil plumes) is the cause of the high resistivity values (21.54 – 146.8 Ωm) and the low resistivity values (0.1–15.8 Ωm). The 2D resistivity approach is an effective tool for examining pollution caused by hydrocarbon in a coastal environment, as this study has proven.
Relationship of Self-Efficacy and Technological, Pedagogical, Content Area Knowledge (TPACK) of National Board Certified Teachers (NBCTs)
Authors:   Dysart Unified School District, Martin Cheryl
Published: November 2023

Elementary through twelve grade (K-12) teacher knowledge has changed significantly over the past 100 years. The pendulum has swung from focusing mainly on content-area knowledge to mainly on pedagogical strategies (Shulman, 1987). This dichotomy between these two distinct knowledge constructs influenced Shulman’s (1986) research on pedagogical content-area knowledge (PCK). Shulman’s PCK framework describes the intersection of both pedagogy and content area knowledge as a unique knowledge to the teaching profession. At the same time PCK was established, the Carnegie Forum on Education and Economy recommended creating a National Board of Professional Teaching Standards (NBPTS) to demonstrate Shulman’s PCK framework. Furthermore, these new standards embraced Mezirow’s (1991) transformative learning theory. They predicted that the 21st-century teacher would “not come to the school knowing all they have to know but knowing how to figure out what they need to know” (Carnegie Task Force, 1986, p. 25). Consequently, it was determined that what the 21st-century teacher needed to know was technology integration (Gentry et al., 2014; Ismaeel & Al Mulhim, 2022).
Beyond the Classroom: Enhancing Career Clarity and Preparedness Through Volunteer Psychoeducational Group Facilitation for Behavioral Health Undergraduates
Authors:   Grand Canyon University, Valenti Elizabeth , Downey Kathleen ,   Grand Canyon University
Published: November 2023

This article provides an example of a university faculty member’s reflective practice on how a sense of community was developed within undergraduate college forensic science classrooms. Through reflective practice, I describe a heartwarming situation I experienced and compare it to the literature to help me better understand my contribution to developing a sense of community amongst my students. After identifying and evaluating possible explanations, I decide a positive learning environment is the main contributing factor and provide recommendations for future practice to help other faculty who are interested in creating a similar environment within their own courses.
A NATURALIZAÇÃO DE DISCURSOS MACHISTAS: REFLEXÕES SOBRE O COTIDIANO E O ENFRENTAMENTO DA OPRESSÃO
Authors: Furyama Luani Akemi , Anzolin Barbara , Barroso Fabiola Ferreira Buck , Gutierrez Melissa Jhully
Published: November 2023

O presente trabalho consiste em uma reflexão crítica sobre como foram e ainda são construídas e mantidas as relações de gênero, o patriarcado, o machismo e a própria afirmação da masculinidade de forma opressora. Utilizamos revisão de literatura, pesquisa documental e análise de notícias midiáticas com a finalidade de sumarizar materiais que abordam essa temática e seus efeitos no cotidiano. Sendo assim, este material aborda a contextualização histórica e cultural do machismo e do patriarcado, considerando desigualdades de gênero historicamente construídas; apresentamos também alguns discursos de ódio propagados pelas mídias, bem como discursos naturalizados de objetificação do corpo da mulher e, por fim, buscamos apresentar meios que possam auxiliar para que essa cultura seja gradativamente enfraquecida.
CABELO OCULTO, CABELO QUE OCULTA: DISCUTINDO GÊNERO, RELIGIÃO E SUBJETIVIDADE
Authors: Miguel Raquel de Barros Pinto , Guirunas Derick Henri , Córdova de Souza Mateus , Nardi Rafaela Carolina
Published: November 2023

O presente artigo se baseia em pesquisa que teve como objetivo investigar o significado dos cabelos para mulheres evangélicas e muçulmanas no Brasil. Para tanto foram realizadas entrevistas com quatro mulheres, duas de cada religião, e consulta aos livros sagrados dessas religiões. As informações foram analisadas seguindo os preceitos da Análise de Discurso Francesa. Através da análise pôde-se destacar alguns temas: iniciação e identificação com a religião, lugar das mulheres na religião, vaidade e reflexões sobre os significados do cabelo. Por fim, os discursos examinados permitiram vislumbrar o lugar do cabelo como um marcador social. Espera-se, dessa forma, contribuir para estudos na interface gênero e religião.
O ETHOS DA GOVERNADORA FÁTIMA BEZERRA:
Authors: Macedo Junior Adriano Menino , Salme de Aragão Verônica Palmira
Published: November 2023

A ausência de mulheres em cargos políticos de poder resguardou o espaço público aos homens brancos heteronormativos, que sempre estiveram no poder no Brasil. Fátima Bezerra, eleita em 2018, ao governo do Rio Grande do Norte, até então, havia mantido discreta a sua intimidade. Entretanto, um assunto atípico chamou a atenção da mídia, recentemente. A manifestação do governador do Rio Grande do Sul ao se revelar “gay” direcionou olhares para a única governadora do Brasil que, até então, tinha resguardado a sua orientação sexual ao âmbito privado. A repercussão desse fato resultou em uma entrevista à Marie Claire (2021), na qual a própria Fátima Bezerra constrói a sua imagem, revelando suas faces ou identidades, que se confundem, em alguns momentos, entre o público e o privado. Como destaca Biroli (2014, p. 32), “na modernidade, a esfera pública estaria baseada em princípios universais, na razão e na impessoalidade, ao passo que a esfera privada abrigaria as relações de caráter pessoal e íntimo”. Almejamos, com o presente estudo, identificar o ethos da governadora Fátima Bezerra, por meio das respostas dadas à entrevista da revista Marie Claire (2021). Com isso, pretendemos, ainda, examinar as estratégias linguístico-discursivas utilizadas pela governadora na construção da sua imagem. Dentre as identidades ressaltadas por Bezerra, buscamos apreender aquelas ligadas aos ethé de credibilidade, por meio do discurso da razão, e às relacionadas ao ethé de identificação, pelo discurso do afeto, cf. Charaudeau (2008).
SERIA A MULHER “LOUCA” UMA MÁ MÃE? REFLEXÕES SOBRE MATERNIDADE E LOUCURA
Authors: Jamile dos Santos Jucá Vládia , Dos Santos Barbosa Adilane
Published: November 2023

A escrita deste ensaio teve o objetivo de revisitar experiências de pesquisa e intervenções no campo da saúde mental, na qual a experiência da maternidade com a loucura se cruzam. Trabalhamos a partir da história de vida de mulheres com sofrimento psíquico e que enfrentaram os desafios na construção do laço com seus filhos e para o exercício da maternidade. Trajetórias nas quais se articulam o sofrimento psíquico, a violência de gênero e o desamparo social. Conhecer suas histórias nos possibilita aprimorar a assistência destinada tanto à elas quanto a seus (suas) filhos. Vamos destacar os seguintes pontos, a partir das três narrativas: as violências de gênero no caso das loucas; a ausência das redes (formais e informais) de suporte e os desafios na construção do laço entre as mães e seus/suas filhos/filhas.
RELIGIOUS FUNDAMENTALISM AND INSTITUTIONAL VIOLENCE AGAINST RAPE VICTIMS IN BOLSONARO’S BRAZIL
Authors: Vieira Lacerda Almeida Eliane , Mazzei Sobral Clara , Rodrigues de Lima Gabriel , Bacellar Sardenberg Cecilia Maria
Published: November 2023

Sexual violence against women and girls, already endemic under “normal” circumstances, increased significantly in Brazil during the Covid 19 pandemic, without an adequate response from the Federal Government. In August 2020, a 10-year-old girl obtained authorization to have a legal abortion in a state other than her home, however, the evangelical pastor Damares Alves, Minister of the MMFDH and leader of the 'Brasil Sem Aborto' (Brazil Without Abortion) movement for many years, passed on personal information about the girl and the clinic to her religious followers, who shared it on social media. When the girl arrived at the clinic, she was met by a group (including elected members of the local City Council) who called her and the attending physician 'murderers’ and then stormed the clinic in an attempt to stop the intervention. This was one of many cases in which fundamentalist religious morals were at stake against the exercise of women's reproductive rights. In this article, we propose to discuss these issues, focusing on how the fundamentalist religious ideals that guided social (dis)policies in Bolsonaro’s Brazil translated into institutional violence against women and girls, particularly victims of sexual violence.
VIOLÊNCIA CONJUGAL: POR QUE AS MULHERES PERMANECEM NESTE CONTEXTO?
Authors: Chamma Renata de Araújo , Araujo Lidianne Chiroll da Silva , Mendonça Esteves Thais , Gomes de Souza Ligia Claudia
Published: November 2023

A violência contra a mulher deve ser tratada como uma questão de saúde pública, visto os altos índices de violência doméstica verificados, que justificam o presente debate e as investigações. Este artigo objetiva apontar e compreender alguns dos fatores que explicam a permanência da mulher nessa posição, mesmo sofrendo diversos tipos de abusos. Para cumprir esse fim, o estudo em questão investigou essa realidade através da aplicação de questionários a 117 mulheres, com idades entre 18 e 62 anos, que estão ou já tiveram relações heterossexuais não saudáveis. Quanto às hipóteses, os seguintes fatores foram colocados como os mais relevantes para os participantes: “dependência emocional”; “expectativa de mudanças de comportamento”; “apego às boas experiências” e “não considerar as atitudes como abusivas”. Os dados foram submetidos à técnica de análise de conteúdo e organizados em gráficos e tabelas. Os resultados mostraram que os itens “expectativa de mudança de comportamento” e “apego às boas experiências”, respectivamente, receberam um percentual mais expressivo quando comparados aos demais, por conseguinte, estes mostraram ter maior influência sobre as participantes.
FORMAÇÃO, TRAJETOS DE GÊNERO E FEMINISMO: A HISTÓRIA POLÍTICA DE EDWIGES DE SÁ PEREIRA, MARIA CRISTINA DE LIMA TAVARES E CRISTINA BUARQUE
Authors: Mendonça Roberta Rayza Silva de , Cardoso Fernando da Silva
Published: November 2023

Nossa discussão pretende refletir sobre trajetos de gênero e feminismo a partir da história e participação política de três mulheres pernambucanas e suas contribuições para a afirmação de direitos da mulher. A metodologia se faz a partir de abordagem qualitativa, com finalidade exploratória e descritiva, além de método histórico, para pensar a atuação política de Edwiges de Sá Pereira, Maria Cristina de Lima Tavares e Cristina Maria Buarque. Foram relacionadas às atuações e participação política dessas mulheres com os acontecimentos históricos, políticos e sociais das épocas em que militaram (e ainda militam), interligando-os a intersecções teóricas sobre gênero e feminismo, para perceber os trajetos de gênero que perfazem essa história. As considerações apontam que a participação de mulheres nos espaços públicos tem papel fundamental para que seja possível garantir e assegurar direitos feminis.
O EFEITO DO FINANCIAMENTO PÚBLICO DE CAMPANHA NA ELEIÇÃO DE MULHERES NO BRASIL
Authors: Alves Marcus Vinícius Chevitarese , Sacchet Teresa , Matheus Thiago
Published: November 2023

O sistema político brasileiro carrega um histórico de sub-representação feminina. Com o intuito de reduzir essa distorção, após mobilização de mulheres parlamentares no Congresso Nacional e na sociedade civil em meados da década de 1990, uma política de cotas de gênero passou a fazer parte da legislação eleitoral. Por 20 anos, tal medida não foi efetiva para alterar de forma significativa o cenário de sub-representação feminina, porém, em 2018 as mulheres conquistaram 77 cadeiras na Câmara dos Deputados, um aumento de 51% em comparação com o número obtido em 2014. Tal fato foi precedido pela criação de um fundo público de campanha e pela consequente decisão do judiciário de uma política de ação afirmativa atrelada a ele. Assim, o presente estudo analisa o papel do uso do fundo eleitoral público no aumento do número de mulheres eleitas como deputadas federais e sua possível interação com a variável capital político. Os resultados apontam uma influência estatisticamente significativa do aumento na proporção de receitas de campanha com o aumento de votos obtidos pelas mulheres para o cargo de deputado federal em 2018.
Effect of Personalized Risk-Reduction Strategies on Cognition and Dementia Risk Profile Among Older Adults
Authors: Yaffe Kristine , Vittinghoff Eric , Dublin Sascha , Peltz Carrie B. , Fleckenstein Lynn E. , Rosenberg Dori E. , Barnes Deborah E. , Balderson Benjamin H. , Larson Eric B.
Published: November 2023

Importance

Modifiable risk factors are hypothesized to account for 30% to 40% of dementia; yet, few trials have demonstrated that risk-reduction interventions, especially multidomain, are efficacious.

Objective

To determine if a personalized, multidomain risk reduction intervention improves cognition and dementia risk profile among older adults.

Design, Setting, and Participants

The Systematic Multi-Domain Alzheimer Risk Reduction Trial was a randomized clinical trial with a 2-year personalized, risk-reduction intervention. A total of 172 adults at elevated risk for dementia (age 70-89 years and with ≥2 of 8 targeted risk factors) were recruited from primary care clinics associated with Kaiser Permanente Washington. Data were collected from August 2018 to August 2022 and analyzed from October 2022 to September 2023.

Intervention

Participants were randomly assigned to the intervention (personalized risk-reduction goals with health coaching and nurse visits) or to a health education control.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The primary outcome was change in a composite modified Neuropsychological Test Battery; preplanned secondary outcomes were change in risk factors and quality of life (QOL). Outcomes were assessed at baseline and 6, 12, 18, and 24 months. Linear mixed models were used to compare, by intention to treat, average treatment effects (ATEs) from baseline over follow-up. The intervention and outcomes were initially in person but then, due to onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, were remote.

Results

The 172 total participants had a mean (SD) age of 75.7 (4.8) years, and 108 (62.8%) were women. After 2 years, compared with the 90 participants in the control group, the 82 participants assigned to intervention demonstrated larger improvements in the composite cognitive score (ATE of SD, 0.14; 95% CI, 0.03-0.25; P = .02; a 74% improvement compared with the change in the control group), better composite risk factor score (ATE of SD, 0.11; 95% CI, 0.01-0.20; P = .03), and improved QOL (ATE, 0.81 points; 95% CI, −0.21 to 1.84; P = .12). There were no between-group differences in serious adverse events (24 in the intervention group and 23 in the control group; P = .59), but the intervention group had greater treatment-related adverse events such as musculoskeletal pain (14 in the intervention group vs 0 in the control group; P < .001).

Conclusions and Relevance

In this randomized clinical trial, a 2-year, personalized, multidomain intervention led to modest improvements in cognition, dementia risk factors, and QOL. Modifiable risk-reduction strategies should be considered for older adults at risk for dementia.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT03683394
Nuclear Technology, 4. Nuclear Fusion
Authors: Zohm Hartmut , Schumacher Uwe , Herold Hans
Published: November 2023

The article contains sections titled:

1
Introduction

2
Fusion Physics

3
Plasma Confinement and Status of Fusion Research

3.1
Magnetic Plasma Confinement

3.1.1
Tokamak

3.1.2
Stellarator

3.1.3
Status of Magnetic Confinement Fusion

3.2
Inertial Confinement Fusion

4
Fusion Power Plant Technology

4.1
Vacuum Vessel and First Wall

4.2
Magnets

4.3
Plasma Heating

4.4
Breeding Blanket and Fuel Cycle

References
Desertification
Authors: Ambalam Kannan
Published: November 2023

Desertification is land degradation in arid, semiarid, and dry subhumid areas resulting from various factors. It is a multifaceted phenomenon caused by complex interactions of a number of physical, biological, political, social, cultural, and economic factors impacting the socioeconomic conditions of millions living in the drylands. Desertification is one of the major global environmental as well as developmental issues largely because of its impact on agriculture growth, food production, and rural livelihoods. Though the phenomenon of desertification is very old, the scientific understanding of it and the efforts made to address it are recent. Today communities all over the world have taken various measures to combat desertification under the framework of the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD). Overall, there is insufficient evidence to show the extent of progress that has been made in combating desertification. In some of the areas, the progress, or lack of it, has yet to be determined.
Diseases, Borderless
Authors: Harris Ali S.
Published: November 2023

As the COVID‐19 pandemic vividly demonstrates, globalization predicated on the enhanced movement of people, capital, information, and goods across the world has considerably raised the potential for infectious disease epidemics and the magnitude of their impacts. As various new types of social and geographical interconnectivities emerge, changes in the interconnections between humans, animals, and the environment will have profound repercussions for the emergence of and response to disease outbreaks. Notably, in the face of recent changes in the political‐economic and ecological landscapes stemming from large‐scale processes of intensified urbanization, digitalization, and neoliberalization, as well as surveillance and security, the global health community faces formidable challenges in responding to the threats of new and (re‐)emerging diseases.
Housework
Authors: Hunt Andrea N.
Published: November 2023

Housework, along with carework, is a part of domestic labor. Housework refers to paid and unpaid labor performed to maintain a home, and includes cleaning, buying groceries, cooking, and doing laundry. The research on housework is historical and sociological, and traces housework back to the preindustrial economy. More contemporary research on housework examines satisfaction, time availability, and gender ideologies in the context of more diverse family forms and considers the impact of COVID‐19 on the household.
Racial and Ethnic Consciousness
Authors: Gold Steven J.
Published: November 2023

Racial and ethnic consciousness refers to the awareness of membership in a racial or ethnic group that is displayed by both group members and the larger society in which they reside. The concept embodies popular and social‐scientific understandings of classification and membership. Popular perceptions often attribute race and ethnicity to biological origins. In contrast, social scientists insist that these categories are the consequence of a social construction process. Despite the social basis of race and ethnicity, social scientists acknowledge that these categories are real in their consequences. Race and ethnicity shape social stratification, underlie individual and group identities, determine patterns of social conflict, and condition life chances.
Riots
Authors: Myers Daniel J.
Published: November 2023

A riot is an unruly collective act of violence that is temporary, is discontinuous from everyday routines, and results in damage to persons or property of either the participants or targets of the collective actor. It can be difficult to determine whether some events are actually riots. For example, it is agreed that a riot is a collective act. Two people acting together, however, would not constitute a riot, even though they may be engaged in a collective act of violence. The lower limit for participation, damage, or duration is ambiguous and disputed. For a riot to occur, however, most agree that at least 30–50 people must be involved, it should last more than a few moments, and it should result in property damage or serious injury.
Whistleblowing
Authors: Brennan Niamh M.
Published: November 2023

This entry defines whistleblowing and examines the legal issues relating to the practice. The four steps involved in whistleblowing are discussed, as are the characteristics of whistleblowers. The entry concludes by acknowledging the increasing recognition of the role of whistleblowing as an important corporate governance mechanism to strengthen internal controls.
Association of genetic and sulcal traits with executive function in congenital heart disease
Authors: Maleyeff Lara , Newburger Jane W. , Wypij David , Thomas Nina H. , Anagnoustou Evdokia , Brueckner Martina , Chung Wendy K. , Cleveland John , Cunningham Sean , Gelb Bruce D. , Goldmuntz Elizabeth , Hagler Donald J , Huang Hao , King Eileen , McQuillen Patrick , Miller Thomas A. , Norris‐Brilliant Ami , Porter George A. , Roberts Amy E. , Grant P. Ellen , Im Kiho , Morton Sarah U.
Published: November 2023

Objective

Persons with congenital heart disease (CHD) are at increased risk of neurodevelopmental disabilities, including impairments to executive function. Sulcal pattern features correlate with executive function in adolescents with single‐ventricle heart disease and tetralogy of Fallot. However, the interaction of sulcal pattern features with genetic and participant factors in predicting executive dysfunction is unknown.

Methods

We studied sulcal pattern features, participant factors, and genetic risk for executive function impairment in a cohort with multiple CHD types using stepwise linear regression and machine learning.

Results

Genetic factors, including predicted damaging de novo or rare inherited variants in neurodevelopmental disabilities risk genes, apolipoprotein E genotype, and principal components of sulcal pattern features were associated with executive function measures after adjusting for age at testing, sex, mother's education, and biventricular versus single‐ventricle CHD in a linear regression model. Using regression trees and bootstrap validation, younger participant age and larger alterations in sulcal pattern features were consistently identified as important predictors of decreased cognitive flexibility with left hemisphere graph topology often selected as the most important predictor. Inclusion of both sulcal pattern and genetic factors improved model fit compared to either alone.

Interpretation

We conclude that sulcal measures remain important predictors of cognitive flexibility, and the model predicting executive outcomes is improved by inclusion of potential genetic sources of neurodevelopmental risk. If confirmed, measures of sulcal patterning may serve as early imaging biomarkers to identify those at heightened risk for future neurodevelopmental disabilities.
Green‐Prepared Magnesium Silicate Sprays Enhance the Repair of Burn‐Skin Wound and Appendages Regeneration in Rats and Minipigs
Authors: Xu Shunxiang , Zhang Yuantao , Dai Bingyang , Rao Jiancun , Deng Fanyan , Zhang Shi'an , Shao Hongwei , Li Xu , Jin Zheyu , Liang Tongzhou , Yang Yongkang , Li Yucong , Chen Ziyi , Tong Wenxue , Xu Jiankun , Ning Congqin , Qin Ling
Published: November 2023

Bioceramics provide promising tactics for wound healing, yet the on‐shelf products are still unmet, especially for skin appendages regeneration. Herein, the inorganic magnesium silicate sprays (MSS) as mineral factors to overcome the existing challenges is proposed. Results indicate MSS can be synthesized by a green method without organic solvents, templates, calcination, and harmful by‐products. With amorphous phase, nanoscale, and high specific surface area, MSS reveal an improved pH‐responsive degradability and excellent bioactivity for cell proliferation and migration. In rats, MSS display a dose‐dependent effect on accelerating burn‐wound repair via regulating the expressions of iNOS and IL‐10 to attenuate inflammation, elevating the expressions of CD31 and α‐SMA to improve vascularization, and boosting collagen deposition without ectopic calcification. The released Mg and Si ions synergistically potentiate the expressions of Gap43, Tubb3, and K19, suggesting the regeneration of peripheral nerves and hair follicles. These superior features are further verified by comparisons with commercial products, Dermlin® and 45S5 bioglass®, in both rats and minipigs. Motivated by these findings, three MSS‐based formulations of band‐aid patch, adhesive hydrogel, and antibacterial sprays are devised for specific scenarios. Taken together, this proof‐of concept study provides a promising bioactive mineral for future clinical skin wound repair and functional appendages regeneration.
Omnidirectionally Strain‐Unperturbed Tactile Array from Modulus Regulation in Quasi‐Homogeneous Elastomer Meshes
Authors: Xu Liangxu , Zhao Xuan , Xun Xiaochen , Gao Fangfang , Gao Lusen , Bi Shuxin , Fan Liubing , Zhao Shuchang , Liao Qingliang , Zhang Yue
Published: November 2023

Skin‐like stretchable tactile arrays are of paramount significance for perceiving physical interactions in dynamic biological tissues, prosthetic limbs, and robots. However, mechanical strain‐induced interference invariably degrades the pressure‐sensing accuracy of tactile arrays. In this work, an omnidirectionally strain‐unperturbed tactile array is prepared through modulus regulation in quasi‐homogeneous elastomer meshes. By varying fiber orientations, the proportion of intrinsic elastic and structural deformations in quasi‐homogeneous elastomer meshes can be adjusted, and the modulus can be regulated from 0.23 to 8.23 MPa. The tactile array combined with low‐ and high‐modulus elastomer meshes enables strain‐unperturbed pressure sensing through local stiffening and controllable deformation. Remarkably, the tactile array exhibits 97% strain insensitivity when stretched 100% along the omniplane directions. Moreover, the quasi‐homogeneous structure endows the tactile array with high robustness, even after 5000 cycles of severe stretching or pressing. By integrating the tactile array with a microcontroller, a tactile visualization system is built to achieve accurate tactile interaction even under multiaxial tensile strain. This work provides an alternative insight into the design of omnidirectionally strain‐unperturbed electronic devices for wide applications on dynamic surfaces.
Tailoring the Chemisorption Manner of Fe d‐Band Center with La2O3 for Enhanced Oxygen Reduction in Anion Exchange Membrane Fuel Cells
Authors: Li Tongfei , Zhang Luping , Zhang Li , Ke Jiawei , Du Tianheng , Zhang Lifang , Cao Yufeng , Yan Chenglin , Qian Tao
Published: November 2023

Engineering the electronic configuration and intermediates adsorption behaviors of high‐performance non‐noble‐metal‐based catalysts for the sluggish oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) kinetics at the cathode is highly imperative for the development of anion exchange membrane fuel cells (AEMFCs), yet remains an enormous challenge. Herein, a rare‐earth metal oxide engineering tactic through the formation of Fe3O4/La2O3 heterostructures in N,O‐doped carbon nanospheres (Fe3O4/La2O3@N,O‐CNSs) for efficient oxygen reduction electrocatalysis is reported. The theoretical calculations reveal that the interfacial bonds formed by the La─O─Fe heterogeneous interface effectively optimize the electronic structure of the Fe d‐band center relative to the Fermi level, which results in a significant reduction of the reaction barriers of rate‐limiting steps during the ORR. The modulation in intermediates chemisorption enables Fe3O4/La2O3@N,O‐CNSs an outstanding ORR performance and improved stability, with a significantly higher half‐wave potential value (0.88 V). More impressively, this integrated catalyst delivers a remarkable power density of 148.7 mW cm−2 in practical AEMFC operating conditions, along with negligible performance degradation over 100 h using an H2‐air atmosphere, which is higher than commercial Pt/C‐coupled electrodes. The results presented here are believed to provide guidelines for fabricating high‐performance AEMFCs electrocatalysts in terms of heterointerface engineering and strong electronic coupling effect induced by rare‐earth oxides.
Zinc‐Ion Microbatteries with High Operando Dynamic Stretchability Designed to Operate in Extreme Environments
Authors: Lee Se Hun , Hwang Jeonguk , Song Chiho , Park Changyong , Kim Hyung‐Seok , Ahn Heejoon
Published: November 2023

Highly stretchable and cycle‐stable (high operando dynamic stretchable) zinc‐ion microbatteries that are nonharmful, environmentally friendly, and low cost are developed herein for the first time. Stretchable zinc‐ion microbatteries (SZIMBs) are fabricated by simultaneously incorporating the facile synthesis of conducting polymer‐intercalated vanadium oxide nanofibers as flexible and elastic cathode materials; the construction, design, and assembly of wavy‐type microdevices; and pre‐zincation techniques that break stereotypes. The poly(3,4‐ethylene dioxythiophene) (PEDOT)‐intercalated zinc vanadium oxide nanofiber zinc‐ion microbatteries (E‐ZVONF‐SZIMBs) manufactured by combining these strategies exhibit a maximum specific capacity of 0.16 mAh cm−2, high energy density of 0.112 mWh cm−2, and high power density of 3.5 mW cm−2 and maintain 83.7% of the initial specific capacity after 500 cycles. The E‐ZVONF‐SZIMBs maintain 78.9% of their initial specific capacity even after 7000 mechanical stretching/bending tests, exhibiting excellent operando dynamic stretchability. The stretchable zinc‐ion microbatteries show practical feasibility by maintaining 80% and 90% of the capacity at −20 and 60°C under 200% strain, respectively. These remarkable achievements in the field of stretchable zinc‐ion microbatteries are expected to have significant implications for the development of future device platforms.
A Multifunctional Scaffold for Bone Infection Treatment by Delivery of microRNA Therapeutics Combined With Antimicrobial Nanoparticles
Authors: Sadowska Joanna M. , Power Rachael. N. , Genoud Katelyn J. , Matheson Austyn , González‐Vázquez Arlyng , Costard Lara , Eichholz Kian , Pitacco Pierluca , Hallegouet Tanguy , Chen Gang , Curtin Caroline M. , Murphy Ciara M. , Cavanagh Brenton , Zhang Huijun , Kelly Daniel J. , Boccaccini Aldo R. , O'Brien Fergal J.
Published: November 2023

Treating bone infections and ensuring bone repair is one of the greatest global challenges of modern orthopedics, made complex by antimicrobial resistance (AMR) risks due to long‐term antibiotic treatment and debilitating large bone defects following infected tissue removal. An ideal multi‐faceted solution would will eradicate bacterial infection without long‐term antibiotic use, simultaneously stimulating osteogenesis and angiogenesis. Here, a multifunctional collagen‐based scaffold that addresses these needs by leveraging the potential of antibiotic‐free antimicrobial nanoparticles (copper‐doped bioactive glass, CuBG) to combat infection without contributing to AMR in conjunction with microRNA‐based gene therapy (utilizing an inhibitor of microRNA‐138) to stimulate both osteogenesis and angiogenesis, is developed. CuBG scaffolds reduce the attachment of gram‐positive bacteria by over 80%, showcasing antimicrobial functionality. The antagomiR‐138 nanoparticles induce osteogenesis of human mesenchymal stem cells in vitro and heal a large load‐bearing defect in a rat femur when delivered on the scaffold. Combining both promising technologies results in a multifunctional antagomiR‐138‐activated CuBG scaffold inducing hMSC‐mediated osteogenesis and stimulating vasculogenesis in an in vivo chick chorioallantoic membrane model. Overall, this multifunctional scaffold catalyzes killing mechanisms in bacteria while inducing bone repair through osteogenic and angiogenic coupling, making this platform a promising multi‐functional strategy for treating and repairing complex bone infections.
Two‐Color Amplified Spontaneous Emission from Auger‐Suppressed Quantum Dots in Liquids
Authors: Li Xueyang , Du Jun , Zhao Guohui , Zhang Boyu , Livache Clément , Ahn Namyoung , Jia Yuxi , Li Mingrun , Chen Ying , Zhu Jingyi , Guo Jingwei , Klimov Victor I. , Wu Kaifeng
Published: November 2023

Colloidal quantum‐dot (QD) lasing is normally achieved in close‐packed solid‐state films, as a high QD volume fraction is required for stimulated emission to outcompete fast Auger decay of optical‐gain‐active multiexciton states. Here a new type of liquid optical‐gain medium is demonstrated, in which compact compositionally‐graded QDs (ccg‐QDs) that feature strong suppression of Auger decay are liquefied using a small amount of solvent. Transient absorption measurements of ccg‐QD liquid suspensions reveal broad‐band optical gain spanning a wide spectral range from 560 (green) to 675 nm (red). The gain magnitude is sufficient to realize a two‐color amplified spontaneous emission (ASE) at 637 and 594 nm due to the band‐edge (1S) and the excited‐state (1P) transition, respectively. Importantly, the ASE regime is achieved using quasicontinuous excitation with nanosecond pulses. Furthermore, the ASE is highly stable under prolonged excitation, which stands in contrast to traditional dyes that exhibit strong degradation under identical excitation conditions. These observations point toward a considerable potential of high‐density ccg‐QD suspensions as liquid, dye‐like optical gain media that feature readily achievable spectral tunability and stable operation under intense photoexcitation.
Investigation of the Stability of the Poly(ethylene oxide)|LiNi1‐x‐y CoxMnyO2 Interface in Solid‐State Batteries
Authors: Yusim Yuriy , Hunstock Dirk F. , Mayer Alexander , Bresser Dominic , Passerini Stefano , Janek Jürgen , Henss Anja
Published: November 2023

While solid‐state batteries (SSBs) comprising poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) based electrolytes are successfully commercialized already for operation at elevated temperature, the selection of the cathode active material (CAM) has so far been limited to LiFePO4. When using high‐voltage CAMs such as LiNi1‐x‐yCoxMnyO2 (NCM), the cells experience fast capacity fading – the cause of which is not consistently understood in literature. In this study, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy measurements in a three‐electrode setup are applied to confirm that the NCM|PEO interface is indeed the Achilles' heel in PEO‐based SSBs at high voltages. In this regard, the interfacial stability on the cathode side depends not only on the upper cut‐off voltage, but also on the molecular weight of PEO, strongly affecting the cell performance. Scanning electron microscopy images of the cathodes after cycling suggest that at high voltages interfacial degradation leads to fragmentation of the polymer backbone and to a decrease in viscosity of the solid polymer electrolyte. Overall, the results help to understand the detrimental processes occurring in PEO‐based SSBs in combination with high‐voltage cathodes.
Porous Ag2Se Fabricated by a Modified Cold Sintering Process with the Average zT Around Unity Near Room Temperature
Authors: Palaporn Dulyawich , Pinitsoontorn Supree , Kurosaki Ken , Snyder G. Jeffrey
Published: November 2023

Silver selenide (Ag2Se) is a promising material for thermoelectric applications near room temperature. This work proposes a new fabrication route for bulk Ag2Se via a modified cold sintering process (mCSP) to enhance its figure‐of‐merit (zT). Unlike conventional CSP, mCSP employs thiol‐amine (TA) as a liquid medium that completely undissolves Ag2Se, leading to a free flow of the TA solution within interparticle channels. By sintering at temperatures above the boiling point of TA, the liquid evaporates, leaving behind a bulk Ag2Se material with a tube‐like porous structure (open pores). These induced defects strongly influence thermoelectric properties of Ag2Se, with a substantial increase in the Seebeck coefficient and decrease in electrical conductivity. The overall power factor of the mCSP sample with TA surpasses that of the control sample without TA, consistent with effective band modeling of Ag2Se. Moreover, the created micropores during mCSP effectively suppresses the thermal conductivity, leading to a maximum zT above 1.0 at 400 K by optimizing mCSP parameters. Importantly, the average zT within the 300–400 K range is around unity, representing one of the highest reported values. Further optimization of mCSP parameters can enhance average zT beyond unity, making Ag2Se more competitive with state‐of‐the‐art materials near room temperature.