bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Relationship between Refractive Error and Intraocular Pressure in Children Attending the University of Port-Harcourt Teaching Hospital Eye Clinic
Authors: E. Briggs Damiete , Nathaniel Godswill I.
Published: August 2022

Objectives: To assess and compare the refractive status and intraocular pressures of children attending the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital Eye clinic.

Materials and Methods: The study was a hospital-based comparative cross-sectional study in children aged 5- 18 years attending the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital Eye clinic. Participants were sampled in 2 groups of equal numbers: children without refractive error (emmetropes) and children with refractive error. Each group had cycloplegic refraction, intraocular pressure measurement using Pulsair tonometer, and a full ocular examination.

Results: A total of 234 children with 117 in each group. Myopia was the more common refractive error, accounting for 75.2% and 77.8% in the right and left eyes respectively.

The mean intraocular pressure was 14.72mmHg for emmetropia, 15.97mmHg for myopia, and 14.93mmHg for hyperopia in the right eye while 15.02mmHg for emmetropia, 16.05mmHg for myopia, and 13.78mmHg for hyperopia on the left eye.

A significant positive correlation was obtained between myopia and intraocular pressure (Pearson correlation, r = 0.151, p = 0.010 for the right eye and r = 0.201, p=0.001 for the left eye).

Conclusion: The higher levels of mean IOP seen in myopia compared to emmetropia and hyperopia demonstrates that children with myopia may likely develop glaucoma earlier compared to others. Therefore, more emphasis should be placed on glaucoma surveillance among myopic children.
CONFLITO SOCIOAMBIENTAL E CONTRADIÇÕES DO ESPAÇO SOCIAL: o caso do polo naval de Rio Grande/RS
Authors: Egues da Rosa Rafaella , Gómez Soto William Héctor
Published: August 2022

Os autores analisam o conflito socioambiental protagonizado pela empresa de construção de plataformas offshore Quip S/A e os pescadores do bairro Santa Tereza na cidade de Rio Grande, RS. Além da consulta de fontes secundárias, realizaram-se entrevistas com os pescadores da comunidade. A partir da teoria lefebvriana do espaço social, foi possível mostrar que os denominados conflitos socioambientais são expressão das contradições do espaço social e que, muitas vezes, esse caráter fica oculto no discurso ambiental.Palavras-chave: Conflito socioambiental. Espaço social. Polo Naval. Pescadores. Rio Grande. SOCIAL-ENVIRONMENTAL CONFLICTS AND SOCIAL SPACE CONTRADICTIONS: the case of the naval hub in Rio Grande/RS, Brazil Rafaella Egues da Rosa William Héctor Gómez Soto The authors analyze the social-environmental conflicts played by the offshore platforms construction company Quip S/A and the fishermen of Santa Tereza neighborhood in the city of Rio Grande, RS, Brazil. Besides consulting secondary sources, the fishermen were interviewed. Além da consulta de fontes secundárias, se realizaram entrevistas com os pescadores da comunidade. From the Lefebvrian view on social space, it was possible to demonstrate that the so-called social-environmental conflicts express contradictions of the social space; many times, this character is hidden in the environmental discourse. Keywords: Social-environmental conflicts. Social space. Naval hub. Fishermen. Rio Grande. CONFLIT SOCIO-ENVIRONNEMENTAL ET CONTRADICTIONS DE L’ESPACE SOCIAL: le cas du pôle naval de Rio Grande/RS Rafaella Egues da Rosa William Héctor Gómez Soto Les auteurs analysent le conflit socioenvironnemental entre la société de construction de plateformes offshore Quip S/A et les pêcheurs du quartier de Santa Teresa dans la ville de Rio Grande , RS . Au-delà des informations secondaires consultées, des interviews ont été réalisées avec les pêcheurs de la communauté. Partant de la théorie de Lefebvre sur l’espace social , il a été possible de montrer que les dits conflits socio-environnementaux sont l’expression des contradictions de l’espace social et que très souvent cet élément est omis dans le discours environnemental. Mots-clés: Conflit socio-environnemental. Espace social. Pôle Naval. Pécheurs. Rio Grande. Publicação Online do Caderno CRH no Scielo: http://www.scielo.br/ccrh Publicação Online do Caderno CRH: http://www.cadernocrh.ufba.br
MOVIMENTOS NACIONAIS DE TRABALHADORES E CONEXÕES TRANSNACIONAIS: a evolução da arquitetura das forças sociais do trabalho no neoliberalismo
Authors: Evans Peter
Published: August 2022

A era neoliberal minou os direitos dos trabalhadores e o poder das forças sociais do trabalho a nível nacional, mas foi caracterizada, também, como uma era do novo “transnacionalismo do movimento dos trabalhadores”. Mudanças conjunturais a nível nacional foram fundamentais para aumentar a abertura às alianças transnacionais. Uma análise das campanhas evidencia isso. Avaliar as conexões entre movimentos nacionais de trabalhadores e a nova infraestrutura organizacional que emergiu no neoliberalismo é um ponto de partida necessário para construir teorias mais apuradas sobre as dinâmicas das contestações das forças sociais do trabalho ao capital global.Palavras-chave: Trabalhadores. Sindicatos globais. Transnacionalismo. Sindicatos nacionais. Neoliberalismo.Publicação Online do Caderno CRH no Scielo: http://www.scielo.br/ccrh Publicação Online do Caderno CRH: http://www.cadernocrh.ufba.br
LA AMAZONÍA EN EL FUTURO DE LA AMÉRICA DEL SUR: identificación de los ejes estratégicos socioambientales para la cooperación Sur-Sur
Authors: Martin Soria Dall’Orso Carlos Antonio
Published: August 2022

El articulo busca identificar las oportunidades de desarrollo de políticas públicas y proyectos en materia socioambiental que pavimenten la transición hacia la Economía Verde a partir de una propuesta que recoja las necesidades y oportunidades que brinda la Amazonia hacia un desarrollo diverso bajo en carbono y con sostenibilidad social, ambiental y económica. Se revisa la situación actual del modelo extractivista con limitado desarrollo del aparato legal y filosófico de los derechos humanos hacia un modelo que basado en la comprensión del paradigma de los derechos humanos ayude a construir relaciones más igualitarias, ofreciendo oportunidades para el desarrollo de políticas públicas que favorezcan la diversificación del modelo de desarrollo y la incorporación de proyectos bajos en carbono que apoyen a la sostenibilidad de la Amazonia y sus poblaciones. Se revisara los principales problemas legales e institucionales que afectan a las poblaciones indígenas y rurales a fin de dar solidez al modelo de un desarrollo diverso apoyándose en el desarrollo de capacidades de su población.Palabras-clave: Amazonia. Economía verde. Sostenibilidad. Carbono. Poblaciones.Publicação Online do Caderno CRH no Scielo: http://www.scielo.br/ccrh Publicação Online do Caderno CRH: http://www.cadernocrh.ufba.br
MOVIMIENTOS SOCIALES, GOBIERNOS PROGRESISTAS Y ESTADO EN AMÉRICA LATINA: transiciones, conflictos y mediaciones
Authors: Bringel Breno , Falero Alfredo
Published: August 2022

Este artículo busca analizar la América Latina contemporánea en clave procesual y relacional, a partir de la relación entre movimientos sociales, gobiernos progresistas y Estado. Su objetivo es comprender el ciclo político progresista que se abre en el cambio de siglo de forma paralela a cambios políticos, sociales y económicos más estructuradores. De forma más específica, el texto discute y examina: i) la necesidad de captación del proceso social y la diversidad de formatos de interacción entre movimientos sociales, gobiernos progresistas y Estado en la región; ii) la especificidad de la región, su posición dependiente en el mundo y sus consecuencias sociales y políticas, incluyendo la transformación de la forma Estado, cada vez más transnacionalizado; iii) los principales ejes de conflicto social, oriundos en buena medida de las mediaciones sociopolíticas y de las contradicciones político-económicas; iv) los tipos de gobiernos, los límites del progresismo y las tensiones entre gestión estatal y movimientos sociales.Palabras-clave: Movimientos sociales. Gobiernos progresistas. Estado. América Latina. Publicação Online do Caderno CRH no Scielo: http://www.scielo.br/ccrh Publicação Online do Caderno CRH: http://www.cadernocrh.ufba.br
AS ORGANIZAÇÕES REGIONAIS E A PROMOÇÃO E PROTEÇÃO DA DEMOCRACIA: reflexões a partir das práticas de intervenção democrática na América do Sul
Authors: Ribeiro Hoffmann Andrea
Published: August 2022

O principal objetivo deste artigo é explorar se, e sob que condições, as organizações regionais podem contribuir para a promoção e proteção da democracia de seus estados-membros. Os principais fatores destacados são as identidades das organizações regionais, interesses dos países exercendo liderança, a pressão de atores externos, e os efeitos do fenômeno de sobreposição de regionalismos (overlapping regionalism), ou seja, os efeitos dos compromissos derivados da participação em diversas organizações simultaneamente, que podem ter mandatos semelhantes, complementares ou contraditórios. Em termos da análise empírica, este artigo analisa os compromissos com a democracia na América do Sul com foco na OEA, no Mercosul, e na Unasul. O caso da crise democrática no Paraguai de 2012 é usado para ilustrar as possibilidades e limites do papel das organizações regionais.Palavras-chave: Organizações regionais. Cláusula democrática. OEA. Unasul. Mercosul. Paraguai. Publicação Online do Caderno CRH no Scielo: http://www.scielo.br/ccrh Publicação Online do Caderno CRH: http://www.cadernocrh.ufba.br
MUJERES PRIVADAS DE LIBERTAD: ¿es posible su reinserción social?
Authors: Espinoza Olga
Published: August 2022

En las últimas décadas, la población femenina privada de libertad se ha incrementado de forma progresiva en la región latinoamericana. Ello ha generado una serie de problemas que han redundado en el aumento de la percepción de inseguridad en la ciudadanía. Bajo este escenario, resulta urgente identificar los perfiles y necesidades de este grupo, así como las particularidades a considerar en el diseño e implementación de programas de reinserción social efectivos luego de su paso por la cárcel. Para ello se analizará el contexto de privación de libertad en algunos países de América Latina, para luego relevar los atributos que singularizan a las mujeres privadas de libertad y que son tomados en cuenta en programas de reinserción que fomenten la reducción de la reincidencia delictiva de forma eficiente.Palabras-clave: Criminalidad femenina. Mujeres privadas de libertad. Prisiones. Reinserción. Reincidencia. Publicação Online do Caderno CRH no Scielo: http://www.scielo.br/ccrh Publicação Online do Caderno CRH: http://www.cadernocrh.ufba.br
BRASIL E MERCOSUL: rumos da integração na lógica do neodesenvolvimentismo (2003-2014)
Authors: Menezes Klemi Albene Miriam , Goulart Menezes Roberto
Published: August 2022

Este artigo examina o processo de integração na América do Sul sob as premissas do neodesenvolvimen- tismo liderado pelo Brasil, no período de 2003 a 2014. Esse giro à esquerda vem acompanhado da preocu- pação com o crescimento econômico com justiça social, da defesa da integração regional sob as premissas pós-neoliberais, da inserção internacional com certo grau de autonomia e do revigoramento do papel do Estado para alcançar esses propósitos. A linha de abordagem do tema considera também a presença chinesa na região, particularmente sua aproximação com a Argentina e o Brasil. Objetiva-se apresentar subsídios para o esclarecimento das seguintes questões: essa estratégia de integração liderada pelo Brasil, em que pese a defesa da integração, alcançou intensificá-la? E qual o lugar da integração no giro à esquerda? A análise do tema pauta-se em documentos oficiais e na literatura especializada, numa perspectiva histórica.Palavras-chave: Mercosul. Integração regional. Neodesenvolvimentismo. Pós-neoliberalismo. China. Publicação Online do Caderno CRH no Scielo: http://www.scielo.br/ccrh Publicação Online do Caderno CRH: http://www.cadernocrh.ufba.br
O TRABALHO NA CONFECÇÃO EM SÃO PAULO: as novas formas da precariedade
Authors: De Paula Leite Marcia , Roberta Alves Silva Sandra , Carvalho Guimarães Pilar
Published: August 2022

RESUMOEste artigo analisa o trabalho no setor de confecção a partir de pesquisa realizada na cidade de São Paulo. Debruçando-se mais especificamente sobre o trabalho em domicílio e dos imigrantes, discutem-se as condições de trabalho no setor a partir da configuração das cadeias de valor e da divisão internacional do trabalho que ela promove, gerando uma nova dinâmica nas formas de precariedade que sempre marcaram o setor. O texto debate também o impacto do selo da Associação Brasileira do Varejo Têxtil (ABVTEX) sobre as condições do trabalho de costura nos domicílios e nas oficinas.THE WORK IN THE CLOTHING INDUSTRY IN SÃO PAULO: the new forms of precariousnessABSTRACTThis article analysis the work in the clothing sector based on a research made in the city of São Paulo. This article is focused specifically on home jobs and on the work of immigrants. It is discussed the working conditions in the sector from the configuration of value chains and from the international division of work that it promotes generating a new dynamics in the forms of precariousness that have always marked the sector. This study also discusses the impact of the Brazilian Textile Retail Association (ABVTEX) on the conditions of sewing workers at their homes and at factories.Key words: Work in home; Immigrate work; Global value chain; Work at clothing sector; Work analogous to slave work.LE TRAVAIL DANS L’INDUSTRIE DE CONFECTION À SÃO PAULO: des nouvelles formes de la precaritéABSTRACTCet article analyse le travail dans l’industrie du vêtement à partir d’une recherche menée à São Paulo. Il se concentre plus particulièrement sur le travail domestique et des immigrants, et débat les conditions de travail dans le secteur à partir de laconfiguration de la chaîne de valeur de ce secteur de l’industrie et de la division internationale du travail qu’elle favorise, en créant une nouvelle dynamique dans les formes de précarité qui a toujours marqué le secteur. Le texte débat aussi l’impact du certificat de l’Association brésilienne du textile (ABVTEX) sur les conditions de travail de couture dans les maisons et ateliers.Key words: Travailler domestique; Travailler immigrants; Chaîne de valeur mondiale; Travailler dans l’industrie de la couture; Le travail analogique à esclave
Analysis of the sociodemographic, work profile and occupational risks of community health agents / Análise do perfil sociodemográfico, laboral e dos riscos ocupacionais de agentes comunitários de saúde
Authors: Silva Mayra Hadassa Ferreira , Dias Thaíse Sara Costa , Braga Bianca de Araújo Cavalcante , Lucena Brunna Thais Luckwu de , Oliveira Luciana Figueiredo de , Trigueiro Janaína von Söhsten
Published: August 2022

Objetivo: delinear o perfil sociodemográfico e laboral de Agentes Comunitários de Saúdebem como investigar os riscos ocupacionais aos quais estão expostos. Método: realizadopor meio de um questionário autoaplicado com 64 sujeitos, constituído por duas seções:uma relativa aos dados sociodemográficos e laborais e outra com questões acerca dosriscos ocupacionais. Resultados: a maioria dos participantes é do gênero feminino, casada,com o ensino médio completo, fez curso de qualificação, reside na microárea que trabalhae cumpre 40 horas semanais. Elencou-se 5 variáveis como riscos ocupacionais, sendo elas:contato com pessoas infectantes, agressão física, desgaste emocional, problemasinterpessoais e ataques de animais. Conclusão: é imperativo que tal profissional sejareconhecido pelo seu potencial. Ademais, que possa ter as suas demandas atendidas ecompreendidas, especialmente no que concerne ao modo de enfrentamento àsadversidades laborais, o que o faz ser tão suscetível ao adoecimento, comprovado nessapesquisa.
Editorial by Peter Hubbard
Authors: Hubbard Peter
Published: August 2022

As psychotherapist we are very familiar with the close, private, transference oriented settings in which we carry out most of our work with individuals, couples and groups. We provide a place where painful experience, long held secrets and inadequate relationships can be uncovered, unravelled and redeemed. It is a privileged place that must be guarded from intrusion and violation.
Impediments to the experience of being loved in psychotherapy
Authors: McDougall Ian
Published: August 2022

There appears to be increasing acceptance amongst therapists that psychotherapy involves a 'cure through love', as first expressed ninety years ago by Sigmund Freud. Ferenzci, Suttie,  Halmos, Laing, Yalom, Greben, Hobson, Lomas and Valliant are among those who have expressed this view. Closer to home Dr Eng-Kong Tan, analytic psychotherapist of Sydney, alluded to it with sensitivity and wisdom in his keynote address to the 1991 Annual Conference of NZAP. I think it is likely that Dr Maurice Bevan-Brown, whom we particularly honour in connection with the 50th anniversary of NZAP, would have concurred. It is certainly, in my reading, consistent with The Sources of Love and Fear, the little book he produced for a lay audience and first published in 1950. In a brief section on psychotherapy, good psychotherapy is based on providing the patient with 'a new and more adequate parent', and for Bevan-Brown a loving attitude is the essence of good parenting.
Psychotherapy as a post-modern art form
Authors: Daellenbach Charlotte
Published: August 2022

As  psychotherapists, we are expected to be familiar with a range of psychotherapeutic theories and techniques. The process of blending and integrating these different approaches brings richness to our work, while at the same time risking the loss of the truly unique culture which each therapy embodies. This paper will look at how we choose, in our moment-to-moment interactions, which therapeutic techniques we use, how we bring these techniques in line with our own intuition, and how, once a particular approach has been chosen, this choice influences the course of the therapy. How does a purist approach differ from an integrated approach- what are the advantages or possible pitfalls?
Geographic Accessibility and Availability of Radiotherapy in Ghana
Authors: Scott Aba Anoa , Polo Alfredo , Zubizarreta Eduardo , Akoto-Aidoo Charles , Edusa Clement , Osei-Bonsu Ernest , Yarney Joel , Dwobeng Bismark , Milosevic Michael , Rodin Danielle
Published: August 2022

Importance

Radiotherapy is critical for comprehensive cancer care, but there are large gaps in access. Within Ghana, data on radiotherapy availability and on the relationship between distance and access are unknown.

Objectives

To estimate the gaps in radiotherapy machine availability in Ghana and to describe the association between distance and access to care.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This is a cross-sectional, population-based study of radiotherapy delivery in Ghana in 2020 and model-based analysis of radiotherapy demand and the radiotherapy utilization rate (RUR) using the Global Task Force on Radiotherapy for Cancer Control investment framework.

Exposures

Receipt of radiotherapy and the number of radiotherapy courses delivered.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Geocoded location of patients receiving external beam radiotherapy (EBRT); median Euclidean distance from the district centroids to the nearest radiotherapy centers; proportion of population living within geographic buffer zones of 100, 150, and 200 km; additional capacity required for optimal utilization; and geographic accessibility after strategic location of a radiotherapy facility in an underserviced region.

Results

A total of 2883 patients underwent EBRT courses in 2020, with an actual RUR of 11%. Based on an optimal RUR of 48%, 11 524 patients had an indication for radiotherapy, indicating that only 23% of patients received treatment. An investment of 23 additional EBRT machines would be required to meet demand. The median Euclidean distance from the district centroids to the nearest radiotherapy facility was 110.6 km (range, 0.62-513.2 km). The proportion of the total population living within a radius of 100, 150 and 200 km of a radiotherapy facility was 47%, 61% and 70%, respectively. A new radiotherapy facility in the northern regional capital would reduce the median of Euclidean distance by 10% to 99.4 km (range, 0.62-267.7 km) and increase proportion of the total population living within a radius of 100, 150 and 200 km to 53%, 69% and 84%, respectively. The greatest benefit was seen in regions in the northern half of Ghana.

Conclusions and Relevance

In this cross-sectional study of geographic accessibility and availability of radiotherapy, Ghana had major national deficits of radiotherapy capacity, with significant geographic disparities among regions. Well-planned infrastructure scale-up that accounts for the population distribution could improve radiotherapy accessibility.
Supporting Lactation in Otolaryngology Patients Through Medication Optimization, Radiology Considerations, and More
Authors: Elder Emily , Pianosi Kiersten , Lawlor Claire M. , Graham M. Elise
Published: August 2022

Importance

The benefits of breastfeeding are well established, with the American Academy of Pediatrics and Canadian guidelines recommending exclusive breastfeeding for the first 6 months of life. However, maternal hospitalization, illness, medication use, and poor support can result in early termination of breastfeeding. Caring for breastfeeding patients in otolaryngology is a challenge because of the lack of literature regarding otolaryngology-specific medication safety, patient concerns, and inadequate education among otolaryngologists. This review highlights recent literature regarding lactation in otolaryngology patients, including medication, radiologic imaging, perioperative considerations, and subspecialty-specific considerations for lactating patients.

Observations

The majority of common medications used in general otolaryngology are safe for breastfeeding patients, including antihistamines, mucolytics, antitussives, antifungals, and decongestants. Certain analgesics and anti-inflammatories, such as tramadol, are not preferred in breastfeeding individuals. Some subspeciality-specific medications such as biologics (dupilumab) and methotrexate should be avoided. Lactating patients require special perioperative attention to ensure that optimal patient care is provided, such as managing supply, considering length of surgery, managing postoperative pain, and determining the safe amount of time until an infant can be fed.

Conclusions and Relevance

Most medications can be safely used with lactating patients. If physicians are unsure about a medication’s safety, they should consult appropriate resources prior to recommending breastfeeding cessation or to discard pumped milk.
Dosimetric evaluation of respiratory gating on a 0.35‐T magnetic resonance–guided radiotherapy linac
Authors: Charters John A. , Abdulkadir Yasin , O'Connell Dylan , Yang Yingli , Lamb James M.
Published: August 2022

Purpose

The commercial 0.35‐T magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)‐guided radiotherapy vendor ViewRay recently introduced upgraded real‐time imaging frame rates based on compressed sensing techniques. Furthermore, additional motion tracking algorithms were made available. Compressed sensing allows for increased image frame rates but may compromise image quality. To assess the impact of this upgrade on respiratory gating accuracy, we evaluated gated dose distributions pre‐ and post‐upgrade using a motion phantom and radiochromic film.

Methods

Seven motion waveforms (four artificial, two patient‐derived free‐breathing, and one breath‐holding) were used to drive an MRI‐compatible motion phantom. A treatment plan was developed to deliver a 3‐cm diameter spherical dose distribution typical of a stereotactic body radiotherapy plan. Gating was performed using 4‐frames per second (fps) imaging pre‐upgrade on the “default” tracking algorithm and 8‐fps post‐upgrade using the “small mobile targets” (SMT) and “large deforming targets” (LDT) tracking algorithms. Radiochromic film was placed in a moving insert within the phantom to measure dose. The planned and delivered dose distributions were compared using the gamma index with 3%/3‐mm criteria. Dose–area histograms were produced to calculate the dose to 95% (D95) of the sphere planning target volume (PTV) and two simulated gross tumor volumes formed by contracting the PTV by 3 and 5 mm, respectively.

Results

Gamma pass rates ranged from 18% to 93% over the 21 combinations of breathing trace and gating conditions examined. D95 ranged from 206 to 514 cGy. On average, the LDT algorithm yielded lower gamma and D95 values than the default and SMT algorithms.

Conclusion

Respiratory gating at 8 fps with the new tracking algorithms provides similar gating performance to the original algorithm with 4 fps, although the LDT algorithm had lower accuracy for our non‐deformable target. This indicates that the choice of deformable image registration algorithm should be chosen deliberately based on whether the target is rigid or deforming.
Tailored Torsion and Bending‐Resistant Avian‐Inspired Structures
Authors: Buccino Federica , Bruzzaniti Paolo , Candidori Sara , Graziosi Serena , Vergani Laura Maria
Published: August 2022

The escalating demand for torsion‐ and bending‐resistant structures paired with the need for more efficient use of materials and geometries, have led to novel bio‐inspired ingenious solutions. However, lessons from Nature could be as inspiring as they are puzzling: plants and animals offer an enormous range of promising but hierarchically complex configurations. Avian bones are prominent candidates for addressing the torsional and bending issue. They present a unique intertwining of simple components: helicoidal ridges and crisscrossing struts, able to bear flexural and twisting actions of winds. Here, it is set how to harmonically move from the natural to the engineering level to formalize and analyze the biological phenomena under controlled design conditions. The effect of ridges and struts is isolated and combined toward tailored torsion and bending‐resistant arrangements. Then the biological level is revisited to extrapolate the avian allometric design approach and is translated into multiscale lightweight structures at the engineering level. This study exploits the complexity of Nature and the scalability that characterizes the evolutionary design of bird bones through the design and fabrication versatility allowed by additive manufacturing technologies. This paves the way for exploring the transferability of the proposed solution at multiple engineering scales.
Density‐Dependent Impact Resilience and Auxeticity of Elastomeric Polyurea Foams
Authors: Youssef George , Kokash Yazeed , Uddin Kazi Zahir , Koohbor Behrad
Published: August 2022

This research investigates the dynamic response of a novel polyurea foam with different densities by separately submitting samples to single and multiple impacts at different energies ranging from 1.77 to 7.09 J. The impact and transmitted force‐time histories are acquired during the impact events. Deformation of the samples is also recorded using high‐speed photography and analyzed using digital image correlation (DIC) to characterize density‐dependent strain rate and Poisson's ratio. The analyses of the force‐time histories highlight the interrelationship between the incoming impact energy and force characteristics, including amplitude and durations. The experimental results reveal that polyurea foams can absorb nearly 50% of the incoming impact energy irrespective of their density. The dynamic impact efficacy of the foam persists even after sequential impact events are imparted on the same samples, with only a 20% drop in the load‐bearing capacity after seven consecutive impacts. Furthermore, as verified via electron microscopy observations, the higher‐density foam does not exhibit any permanent damage. This high‐density polyurea foam shows reversible auxetic transition at all impact energies considered herein. The outcomes of this research indicate the suitability of polyurea foams for cushioning and impact mitigation applications, especially in repeated biomechanical impact scenarios.
Accelerating Protonation Kinetics for Ammonia Electrosynthesis on Single Iron Sites Embedded in Carbon with Intrinsic Defects
Authors: Kong Yan , Wu Lei , Yang Xiaoxuan , Li Yan , Zheng Sixing , Yang Bin , Li Zhongjian , Zhang Qinghua , Zhou Shaodong , Lei Lecheng , Wu Gang , Hou Yang
Published: August 2022

Electrocatalysts play a vital role in electroreduction of N2 to NH3 (NRR); however, large‐scale industrial application of electrochemical NRR is still limited by low selectivity and poor activity, owing to the sluggish reaction kinetics. Herein, a high‐performance NRR catalyst consisting of atomically dispersed iron single site embedded in porous nitrogen‐doped carbon nanofibers with abundant carbon defects (D‐FeN/C) is reported. The D‐FeN/C catalyst achieves a remarkably high NH3 yield rate of ≈24.8 µg h−1 mgcat−1 and Faradaic efficiency of 15.8% at −0.4 V in alkaline electrolyte, which outperforms almost all reported Fe‐based NRR catalysts. Structural characterization manifests that the isolated Fe center is coordinated with four N atoms and assisted by extra carbon defects. In situ attenuated total reflectance‐Fourier transform infrared results and kinetics isotope effects demonstrate that the intrinsic carbon defects dramatically enhance the water dissociation process and accelerate the protonation kinetics of D‐FeN/C for NRR. Theoretical investigations unveil atomic Fe‐N4 catalytic sites together with intrinsic carbon defects synergistically reduce the energy barrier of the protonation process and promote the proton‐coupled reaction kinetics, thus boosting the whole NRR catalytic performance.
A Microchambers Containing Contact Lens for the Noninvasive Detection of Tear Exosomes
Authors: Li Shaopei , Zhu Yangzhi , Haghniaz Reihaneh , Kawakita Satoru , Guan Shenghan , Chen Jianjun , Li Zijie , Mandal Kalpana , Bahari Jamal , Shah Shilp , Guo Juchen , Kang Heemin , Sun Wujin , Kim Han‐Jun , Jucaud Vadim , Dokmeci Mehmet R. , Kollbaum Pete , Lee Chi Hwan , Khademhosseini Ali
Published: August 2022

Exosomes, a form of small extracellular vesicles, play a crucial role in the metastasis of cancers and thus are investigated as potential biomarkers for cancer diagnosis. However, conventional detection methods like immune‐based assay and microRNA analyses are expensive and require tedious pretreatments and lengthy analysis time. Since exosomes related to cancers are reported to exist in tears, a poly(2‐hydroxyethyl methacrylate) contact lens embedded with antibody‐conjugated signaling microchambers (ACSM‐PCL) capable of detecting tear exosomes is reported. The ACSM‐PCL exhibits high optical transparency and mechanical properties, along with extraordinary biocompatibility and good sensitivity to exosomes. A gold nanoparticle colorimetric assay is employed to visualize captured exosomes. The ACSM‐PCL can detect exosomes in the pH range of 6.5–7.4 (similar to the human tear pH) and have a strong recovery yield in bovine serum albumin solutions. In particular, the ACSM‐PCL can detect exosomes in various solutions, including regular buffer, cell culture media from various cell lines, and human tears. Finally, the ACSM‐PCL can differentiate expression of exosome surface proteins hypothesized as cancer biomarkers. With these encouraging results, this ACSM‐PCL is promised to be the next generation smart contact lens as an easy‐to‐use, rapid, noninvasive monitoring platform of cancer pre‐screening and supportive diagnosis.
Atomic Layer Deposited RuO2 Diffusion Barrier for Next Generation Ru‐Interconnects
Authors: Kim Youn‐Hye , Kim Minsu , Kotsugi Yohei , Cheon Taehoon , Mohapatra Debananda , Jang Yujin , Bae Jong‐Seong , Hong Tae Eun , Ramesh Rahul , An Ki‐Seok , Kim Soo‐Hyun
Published: August 2022

Atomic layer deposition (ALD) is a suitable technology for conformally depositing thin films on nanometer‐scale 3D structures. RuO2 is a promising diffusion barrier for Ru interconnects owing to its compatibility with Ru ALD and its remarkable diffusion barrier properties. Herein, a RuO2 diffusion barrier using an ALD process is developed. The highly reactive Ru precursor [tricarbonyl(trimethylenemethane)ruthenium] and improved O2 supply enable RuO2 deposition. The optimal process conditions [pulsing time ratio (tO2/tRu): 10, process pressure: 1 Torr, temperature: 180 °C] are established for the RuO2 growth. Growth parameters, such as the growth rate (0.56 Å cycle–1), nucleation delay (incubation period: 6 cycles), and conformality (step coverage: 100%), are also confirmed on the SiO2 substrate. The structural and electrical properties of the Ru/RuO2/Si multilayer are investigated to explore the diffusion barrier performance of the ALD‐RuO2 film. The formation of Ru silicide does not occur without the conductivity degradation of the Ru/RuO2/Si multilayer with an increase in the annealing temperature up to 850 °C, thus demonstrating that interdiffusion of Ru and Si is completely suppressed by a thin (5 nm) ALD‐RuO2 film. Consequently, the practical growth behavior and diffusion barrier performance of RuO2 can serve as a potential diffusion barrier for Ru interconnects.
All Solution‐Processed High Performance Pure‐Blue Perovskite Quantum‐Dot Light‐Emitting Diodes
Authors: Liu Aqiang , Bi Chenghao , Tian Jianjun
Published: August 2022

Solution‐processed light‐emitting diodes (LEDs) show great potential for low‐cost fabrication of large‐area display panels, but the efficient perovskite LEDs (PeLEDs) cannot be achieved by all solution process, because the perovskite emitter is easily destroyed by subsequent solution. In particular, the solution‐processed PeLEDs with blue emission wavelength in 460–470 nm (pure‐blue, meeting Rec. 2020 standards) still is inferior. Here, highly efficient and stable pure‐blue PeLEDs are achieved by all solution process based on colloidal perovskite quantum dots and difunctional ZnO (D‐ZnO) nanocrystals. The D‐ZnO nanocrystals are obtained by a ligand strategy of phenethylammonium bromide, which not only repairs the perovskite surface destroyed by the solvent of the D‐ZnO solution, but also enables the balanced charge injection to suppress Auger recombination. The PeLED presented pure‐blue emitting at 470 nm wavelength, a maximum luminance of 11 100 cd m‐2, and external quantum efficiency of 8.7% (record efficiency for pure‐blue emission). The device also showed a continuous operation half‐lifetime of 35 h at luminance of 100 cd m‐2.
Dual‐Scale Integration Design of Sn–ZnO Catalyst toward Efficient and Stable CO2 Electroreduction
Authors: Ren Bohua , Zhang Zhen , Wen Guobin , Zhang Xiaowen , Xu Mi , Weng Yueying , Nie Yihang , Dou Haozhen , Jiang Yi , Deng Ya‐Ping , Sun Guiru , Luo Dan , Shui Lingling , Wang Xin , Feng Ming , Yu Aiping , Chen Zhongwei
Published: August 2022

Electrochemical CO2 reduction to CO is a potential sustainable strategy for alleviating CO2 emission and producing valuable fuels. In the quest to resolve its current problems of low‐energy efficiency and insufficient durability, a dual‐scale design strategy is proposed by implanting a non‐noble active Sn–ZnO heterointerface inside the nanopores of high‐surface‐area carbon nanospheres (Sn–ZnO@HC). The metal d‐bandwidth tuning of Sn and ZnO alters the extent of substrate–molecule orbital mixing, facilitating the breaking of the *COOH intermediate and the yield of CO. Furthermore, the confinement effect of tailored nanopores results in a beneficial pH distribution in the local environment around the Sn–ZnO nanoparticles and protects them against leaching and aggregating. Through integrating electronic and nanopore‐scale control, Sn–ZnO@HC achieves a quite low potential of −0.53 V vs reversible hydrogen electrode (RHE) with 91% Faradaic efficiency for CO and an ultralong stability of 240 h. This work provides proof of concept for the multiscale design of electrocatalysts.
Technological Breakthroughs in Chip Fabrication, Transfer, and Color Conversion for High‐Performance Micro‐LED Displays
Authors: Ryu Jung‐El , Park Sohyeon , Park Yongjo , Ryu Sang‐Wan , Hwang Kyungwook , Jang Ho Won
Published: August 2022

The implementation of high‐efficiency and high‐resolution displays has been the focus of considerable research interest. Recently, micro light‐emitting diodes (micro‐LEDs), which are inorganic light‐emitting diodes of size <100 µm2, have emerged as a promising display technology owing to their superior features and advantages over other displays like liquid crystal displays and organic light‐emitting diodes. Although many companies have introduced micro‐LED displays since 2012, obstacles to mass production still exist. Three major challenges, i.e., low quantum efficiency, time‐consuming transfer, and complex color conversion, have been overcome with technological breakthroughs to realize cost‐effective micro‐LED displays. In the review, methods for improving the degraded quantum efficiency of GaN‐based micro‐LEDs induced by the size effect are examined, including wet chemical treatment, passivation layer adoption, LED structure design, and growing LEDs in self‐passivated structures. Novel transfer technologies, including pick‐up transfer and self‐assembly methods, for developing large‐area micro‐LED displays with high yield and reliability are discussed in depth. Quantum dots as color conversion materials for high color purity, and deposition methods such as electrohydrodynamic jet printing or contact printing on micro‐LEDs are also addressed. This review presents current status and critical challenges of micro‐LED technology and promising technical breakthroughs for commercialization of high‐performance displays.
Recent Progress in Strain Engineering on Van der Waals 2D Materials: Tunable Electrical, Electrochemical, Magnetic, and Optical Properties
Authors: Qi Yaping , Sadi Mohammad A. , Hu Dan , Zheng Ming , Wu Zhenping , Jiang Yucheng , Chen Yong P.
Published: August 2022

Strain engineering is a promising way to tune the electrical, electrochemical, magnetic, and optical properties of 2D materials, with the potential to achieve high‐performance 2D‐material‐based devices ultimately. This review discusses the experimental and theoretical results from recent advances in the strain engineering of 2D materials. Some novel methods to induce strain are summarized and then the tunable electrical and optical/optoelectronic properties of 2D materials via strain engineering are highlighted, including particularly the previously less‐discussed strain tuning of superconducting, magnetic, and electrochemical properties. Also, future perspectives of strain engineering are given for its potential applications in functional devices. The state of the survey presents the ever‐increasing advantages and popularity of strain engineering for tuning properties of 2D materials. Suggestions and insights for further research and applications in optical, electronic, and spintronic devices are provided.
A novel variant in GNPNAT1 gene causing a spondylo‐epi‐metaphyseal dysplasia resembling PGM3—Desbuquois like dysplasia
Authors: Elhossini Rasha Moheb , Ahmed Hoda Abdalla , Otaify Ghada , Ghorab Raghda M. , Amr Khalda , Aglan Mona
Published: August 2022

Spondylo‐epi‐metaphyseal dysplasias (SEMDs) are a clinically and genetically heterogeneous group of skeletal dysplasias characterized by short stature and abnormal modeling of the spine and long bones. A novel form of rhizomelic skeletal dysplasia, Ain‐Naz type, associated with a homozygous variant in GNPNAT1 was recently identified. Herein, we report an Egyptian patient, offspring of consanguineous parents, who presented with a severe form of unclassified SEMD. Whole exome sequencing identified a novel homozygous variant in exon 3, c.77T>G, (p.Phe26Cys) in GNPNAT1, that was confirmed by Sanger sequencing and both parents were found to be heterozygous for the identified variant. Main features included severe short stature, rhizomelic limb shortening, and wide flared metaphysis. Short broad long bones, brachydactyly, delayed epiphyseal ossification of long bones, advanced bone age, and immunodeficiency were additional findings expanding the clinical phenotype described in the previously reported family. We conclude that variants in the GNPNAT1 gene cause an autosomal recessive form of SEMD resembling Desbuquois like dysplasia caused by PGM3, which is involved in the same pathway as GNPNAT1.
Polymer‐Modified Micromotors with Biomedical Applications: Promotion of Functionalization
Authors: Li Yanan , Wu Jie , Oku Hiroyuki , Ma Guanghui
Published: August 2022

Owing to their autonomous movement characteristics, micromotors can perform various tasks that traditional drug‐delivery carriers fail to perform. The development of adaptable, highly efficient, functional micromotors has become the primary research goal in biomedical field. Micromotors modified with polymers can exhibit strong propulsion ability and unique performance in a complex biological environment, facilitating their application to various complex environments. Herein, different micromotor designs based on natural and synthetic polymers are discussed and the role of polymers in the structure and performance of micromotors is focused on. Overall, the polymer‐modified micromotors can facilitate new developments, particularly in biomedical applications, such as drug delivery and biological detection.
Ribbon‐Type Boron‐Doped Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons: Conformations, Dynamic Complexation and Electronic Properties
Authors: Sun Wenting , Guo Jiaxiang , Fan Zengming , Yuan Liuzhong , Ye Kaiqi , Dou Chuandong , Wang Yue
Published: August 2022

Molecular ribbons (MRs), one‐dimentional topological polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), are of importance for synthetic chemistry and material sciences. Herein, we disclose an effective strategy to develop boron‐doped MRs, i.e. photochemical cyclization on conjugated organoboranes for rapid π‐extension. A series of ribbon‐type boron‐doped PAHs that own multiple cove edges were synthesized using Mallory photoreaction in solution. Two of them feature isomeric C68B2π‐skeletons with 2.2 nm in length, thus representing a new kind of boron‐doped MRs. The boron atoms endow them with sufficient Lewis acidity, and notably, the formed Lewis acid‐base adducts based on boron‐doped MRs display the photo‐induced dual‐dissociation behavior in the excited state and thus photochromism property. Moreover, despite of the highly contorted topological conformations, their potential utility as organic semiconductor was demonstrated by fabrication of organic field‐effect transistors.
Synthesis and properties of cycloaliphatic diepoxides containing fluorinated linker
Authors: Qin Yue , Chen Mengdi , Li Jinzhao , Wang Yuechuan
Published: August 2022

Cycloaliphatic diepoxides, CAEs, are well known for their better thermal, chemical and optical properties, compared with the glycidyl ether type epoxides. However, the shortages including low moisture resistance, and high reflective index or high dielectric constant limit their use for the emerging advanced optical and electronic applications, In this work, we have synthesized two new cycloaliphatic diepoxides containing different fluorinated linkers (2,2′‐((2,2,3,3‐tetrafluorobutane‐1,4‐diyl)bis(oxy))bis(7‐oxabicyclo[4.1.0]heptane) (TCE) and 2,2′‐((2,2,3,3,4,4,5,5‐octafluorohexane‐1,6‐diyl)bis(oxy))bis(7‐oxabicyclo[4.1.0]heptane) (OCE) and characterized their chemical structures using 1H NMR, 19F NMR, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. We have cured these two fluorine‐containing CAEs, using hexahydro‐4‐methylphthalic anhydride (HMPA) and compared them with a commercial CAE, 3,4‐epoxycyclohexylmethyl‐3,4‐epoxycyclohexanecarboxylate (ERL‐4221) under the same condition. Compared to the cured ERL‐4221 (C‐ERL‐4221), the cured fluorinated CAEs (C‐OCE, C‐TCE) have much better water resistances (saturated water absorption after 6 days in water: 0.70%, 1.72%, and 2.83%, for C‐OCE, C‐TCE, and C‐ERL‐4221, respectively) and lower dielectric constant (Dk) (Dk: 2.54–2.44 and 2.78–2.66 vs. 4.01–4.00 @ 1 Hz‐5 MHz), and similar thermal stability (the statistical heat‐resistant index [Ts]: 169°C, 175°C vs. 175.5°C), although their glass transition temperature (Tg) and storage moduli are lower (Tg: 136°C, 171°C vs. 250°C; moduli: 0.56GPa, 1.25GPa vs. 1.38GPa). These results reveal that fluorine atoms on the linkers effectively reduce dielectric constant and improve hydrophobicity and wettability, providing new insights into the design of fluorine‐containing cycloaliphatic diepoxides.
Eco‐friendly superabsorbent hydrogels based on starch, gellan gum, citric acid, and nanoclays for soil humidity control
Authors: Sabadini Rodrigo C. , Fernandes Mariana , de Zea Bermudez Verónica , Pawlicka Agnieszka , Silva Maria M.
Published: August 2022

The increase in agricultural product demand has entangled the modernization of agriculture. Advances in research have improved production systems, machinery, fertilizers, and pesticides, among others, which are usually applied in an unsustainable way. In this context, hydrogels are attractive materials. Generally, they can be defined as three‐dimensional structures formed from crosslinked hydrophilic polymers with high water absorption capacity. The crosslinks of polymeric chains maintain their structure, letting them absorb large amounts of water without dissolving. This work presents new eco‐friendly superabsorbent hydrogels composed of starch and gellan gum crosslinked with citric acid (CA) and incorporating bentonite (BET) and halloysite (HAL) nanoclays. The addition of nanoclays aimed at developing better soil conditioners, while controlling water management for crop production. Hydrogels with compositions ranging from 100%, 75%, 25%, and 0% of gellan gum to starch, all crosslinked with 10%, 5%, and 2% (w/w) of CA. The samples were characterized by Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). The water swelling properties were studied.
Constructing reduced graphene oxide and polypyrrole coatings on glass fiber to enhance its absorbing performance
Authors: Liu Ling , Liu Xin , Li Zhaojun , Tian Rui , Wang Hongyu
Published: August 2022

In this work, a new route for improving the absorbing performance of glass fibers (GFs) composites by introducing the reduced graphene oxide (RGO)/polypyrrole (PPy)/RGO coatings through the self‐assembly method and then the in‐situ polymerization method was proposed. The corresponding microstructure and electromagnetic parameters were measured by scanning electron microscopy, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and vector network analyzer. The result indicated that the RGO/PPy/RGO coatings can adjust the absorbing performance of GFs composites by its synergistic effect, thus exhibiting optimum impedance matching degree and high conduction loss ability. The minimum reflection loss value of the synthesized RGO/PPy/RGO/GFs composite can reach −55.8 dB with the thickness of 4.3 mm, and the effective absorption bandwidths (≤−10 dB) covered the entire X‐band. This work proved that the RGO/PPy/RGO coatings can be used to adjust the radar absorbing performance of GFs composites.