bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The importance of language in describing concussions: A qualitative analysis
Authors: Knowles Peter , Schneider Katherine , Bugwadia Amy K. , Sorcar Piya , Pea Roy D. , Daneshvar Daniel H. , Baugh Christine M.
Published: August 2024

Background

Concussions are mild traumatic brain injuries that are often undiagnosed due to difficulties in identifying symptoms. To minimize the negative sequelae associated with undiagnosed concussion, efforts have targeted improving concussion reporting. However, knowing more about concussions does not indicate how likely an athlete is to report their concussion. Alternatively, the attitudes and beliefs of athletes and surrounding stakeholders have shown to be a better indication of whether an athlete intends to report their concussion. Prior research has shown that athletes report concussions less often when the injury is described using language that minimizes their severity, such as when it is referred to as a “ding.” This study evaluated whether describing concussions using the word “brain” was associated with individuals' underlying attitudes and beliefs about the injury's severity.

Objective

To measure the relationship between perceived concussion severity and the language used to describe concussions, specifically whether participants used the word “brain” in describing the injury.

Methods

One‐on‐one semi‐structured telephone interviews were conducted, and a cross sectional secondary qualitative analysis was performed to assess participants' perceived concussion severity and their use of the word “brain” to describe concussions.

Design

Cross‐sectional secondary qualitative analysis.

Setting

One‐on‐one semistructured telephone interviews.

Participants

In 2017, 94 individuals involved in high school sports, including athletes, coaches, educators, parents of athletes, and athletic directors were recruited via convenience sampling.

Main Outcome Measures

Respondents' perceived severity of concussions.

Results

Individuals who used a brain phrase to describe concussion also perceived concussions as more severe (p < .001). Specifically, those who described concussions with maximum severity had higher odds of using brain phrases than those who described concussions as having minimum (odds ratio [OR] = 0.05, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.002–0.299, p < .001) or moderate severity (OR = 0.24, 95% CI = 0.086–0.647, p = .003), with the most significant relationship found among coaches.

Conclusions

These findings demonstrate the relationship between medical terminology and perceived severity of concussions. This relationship may play a role in concussion reporting behavior for coaches, athletes, and parents. Education programs using similar medical terminology may promote concussion reporting behaviors.
Physical aging of a glassy polymer in cultural heritage conservation
Authors: Rharbi Yahya , Hugenell Frederic
Published: August 2024

Artworks, particularly easel paintings, are multi‐component materials intended to last indefinitely. The protective coatings applied to these artworks often consist of amorphous glass‐like polymers, which undergo slow physical aging and structural recovery below their glass transition temperature. This process alters key physical properties such as mechanical strength, optical clarity, and thermal stability over extended periods. This study investigates the time‐dependent evolution of these properties in Laropal A81, a widely used synthetic resin for cultural heritage conservation, particularly as a replacement for ancient varnishes. The investigation involves characterization of enthalpy recovery via differential scanning calorimetry, refractive index evolution via refractometry, and creep compliance evolution via rheological measurements. The aging behavior of Laropal A81 is further analyzed using the Kohlrausch–Williams–Watts function and the Tool–Narayanaswamy–Moynihan model, enabling the quantification of critical dynamic parameters such as activation energy, nonlinearity, partition coefficients, and non‐exponentiality. The gained insights into the long‐term behavior of this coating's properties can be valuable for improving preservation and restoration strategies for cultural heritage.
Generation and migration of CO in CO2 DBD glow plasma under Martian pressure
Authors: Fu Qiang , Ye Zifan , Guo Honglin , Duan Zhixin , Luo Jialun , Chang Zhengshi
Published: August 2024

Dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) plasma is a potential tool in the field of in situ CO2 conversion with the low‐pressure environment of Mars. CO is an important intermediate product in the conversion process of CO2. Understanding the pathways and dynamics that govern the generation of CO in CO2 plasmas establishes the foundation for effective regulation. In this work, parallel‐plate DBD structure was employed in our experiment and one‐dimensional fluid simulation model. The findings indicate that CO primarily originates at the boundary of the cathode potential fall region, and it subsequently migrates toward the surface of instantaneous cathode where it accumulates. The thickness of CO‐enriched region is approximately 0.8 mm. During this process, CO migration speed reaches about 2000 m/s. It is worth noting that surface reactions at the instantaneous cathode and anode surfaces contribute only 0.24% to CO generation, in contrast to the predominant influence of impact dissociation reaction between CO2 and electrons (e + CO2 → 2e + CO + O+) at 53.21%, and two‐body decomposition reaction between O+ and CO2 (O+ + CO2 → O +2 + CO) at 35.88%. Finally, the primary factors influencing the migration of CO from production sites to enrichment regions are determined to be particle collisions and momentum exchange between ions and CO, followed by electro‐hydro dynamics force, while dielectrophoresis forces have minimal effect.
Dipicolinic acid reduces Epicoccum sorghinum symptoms on maize and inhibits tenuazonic acid biosynthesis
Authors: Ji Xin‐Yu , Wang Bing‐Yi , Zhang Yi‐Feng , Zhang Yu‐Jing , Lai Ya‐Jie , Yang Yang , Wang Xiang‐Chen , Wang Su‐Yan , Laborda Pedro , Shi Xin‐Chi
Published: August 2024

BACKGROUND

Epicoccum sorghinum is a pathogenic fungus that causes leaf spot in a wide range of plants, including maize, and synthesizes the mycotoxin tenuazonic acid (TEA), which is carcinogenic. Despite the relevant economic and yield losses caused by E. sorghinum worldwide, methods for the control of this pathogen are lacking.

RESULTS

In this work, the efficacy of Bacillus‐produced dipicolinic acid (DPA) for control of E. sorghinum was evaluated using in vitro and in vivo assays, and compared with the efficacy of three commercial fungicides, including carbendazim, prochloraz, and thiram. DPA inhibited E. sorghinum mycelial growth, and conidia germination, and produced important alterations in E. sorghinum hyphae. Interestingly, 10 mM DPA reduced TEA biosynthesis by 86.6%. Although DPA rapidly degraded on maize leaves, 10 mM DPA showed higher preventive (67.4% lesion length inhibition) and inhibitory (89.5% lesion length inhibition) efficacies for the control of E. sorghinum on maize leaves compared to the commercial fungicides.

CONCLUSIONS

Collectively, this study presents the first method for the control of E. sorghinum on maize and demonstrates that DPA application is a suitable approach to inhibit E. sorghinum symptoms in plants and TEA biosynthesis. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Efficacy of Atmospheric Non‐thermal Plasma Corona Discharge Under Dry and Wet Conditions on Decontamination of Food Packaging Film Surfaces
Authors: Acar Emine Gizem , Doganoz Dilan , Çavdar Deniz , Karbancioglu‐Guler Funda , Burlica Radu , Astanei Dragos , Olariu Marius‐Andrei , Gunes Gurbuz
Published: August 2024

Food packaging materials must be sterilized to prevent cross‐contamination of the product. Non‐thermal plasma (NTP) corona discharge can be an effective alternative sterilization method for packaging films. The inactivation efficiency atmospheric NTP corona discharge under dry and wet conditions against vegetative cells of Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus and Bacillus subtilis, spores of B. subtilis and Clostridium sporogenes and fungal spores of Candida albicans, Penicillium expansum and Aspergillus niger on polymeric packaging films were studied. The maximum inactivation of these microorganisms was 5.58, 0.54, 1.51, 1.06, 2.47, 1.73, 2.80, 3.20 and 3.50 log, respectively. Microbial inactivation by the treatments was greatly enhanced under wet conditions. Gram‐negative bacteria were found to be more sensitive to NTP, but spores were more resistant than vegetative bacterial cells. Although fungi were less susceptible than bacteria in dry treatments, they became more sensitive than the Gram‐positive bacteria in wet treatments. Overall, plasma treatments under wet conditions achieved higher microbial inactivation and would be favourable over the dry treatment.
Effectiveness of upfront triple oral combination therapy with additional pirfenidone in a patient with severe pulmonary hypertension associated with lung diseases
Authors: Kashizaki Fumihiro , Matsumoto Sachiko , Miyasaka Atsushi , Tsuchiya Nanami , Osada Reeko , Kaneko Mai , Yumoto Kentaro , Chen Hao , Konishi Kenji , Koizumi Harumi , Takahashi Kenichi , Kaneko Takeshi
Published: August 2024

Diagnosis and treatment of pulmonary hypertension (PH) in patients with lung diseases (PH‐LD) remain unestablished and pose significant challenges. In this report, we present a case of a 77‐year‐old patient with an indeterminate for usual interstitial pneumonia pattern along with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, who developed groups 1 and 3 PH. Following diagnosis, upfront triple oral combination therapy (UTOCT) with macitentan, sildenafil, and selexipag was initiated. Stability in disease progression was achieved over 4 years with the addition of pirfenidone to address interstitial lung disease progression. To the best of our knowledge, this represents the first reported case of PH‐LD, where disease control was maintained with the addition of pirfenidone to UTOCT. This case suggests that some patients with PH‐LD, presenting with groups 1 and 3 PH, may benefit from combined UTOCT and antifibrotic agents, potentially improving symptoms and extending their prognosis.
Cover crops and deep‐soil C accumulation: What does research show after 10 years?
Authors: Blanco‐Canqui Humberto , Jasa Paul , Ferguson Richard B. , Slater Glen
Published: August 2024

The extent to which cover crops (CCs) accumulate soil organic carbon (SOC) in the entire soil profile is still unclear. We measured SOC, permanganate oxidizable C (POX‐C), and particulate organic matter (POM) concentrations down to 60‐cm soil depth in early [2–3 week before corn (Zea mays L.) planting]‐ and late‐terminated (at corn planting) winter rye (Secale cereale L.) CCs in rainfed and irrigated no‐till continuous corn systems in the U.S. Corn Belt after 10 years. CCs increased SOC stock and SOC, POX‐C, and POM concentrations but only in the irrigated system in the upper 5‐cm depth. Late‐terminated CC increased SOC concentration by 4.710 ± 3.501 g kg−1 and accumulated SOC at 0.207 ± 0.145 Mg C ha−1 year−1. It increased POX‐C and POM concentrations, on average, by 1.194 times. CCs likely increased SOC in the irrigated system by producing more biomass (2.247 ± 0.370 Mg ha−1) than in the rainfed system (0.949 ± 0.338 Mg ha−1). At least 2 Mg ha−1 of CC biomass may be needed to increase SOC. Because winter CCs often produce <1 Mg ha−1 of biomass when typically planted late and terminated early, extending the CC growing window by terminating CCs at or after crop planting (planting green) may boost CC biomass and SOC accumulation, although high‐C soils or Mollisols, such as our study soils (>22 g C kg−1), may limit SOC gains. We submit CCs would sequester more SOC in low‐C, eroded, and low‐fertility soils. Overall, winter rye CCs minimally alter soil C in the soil profile in no‐till continuous corn systems after 10 years.
Reflection time and valuing science: Elementary teachers' science subject matter knowledge development during teaching experience
Authors: Nixon Ryan S. , Bennion Adam
Published: August 2024

Although teachers have opportunities to learn about many things through teaching experience, we know little about how they develop science subject matter knowledge in this setting. With both limited opportunities to learn science subject matter knowledge before becoming teachers and minimal science professional development available while working as a teacher, it is important to understand the extent to which elementary teachers develop science subject matter knowledge in their regular classroom practice and the factors that influence that development. In this longitudinal, mixed methods study we collected both quantitative and qualitative data before and following their final field experience, which was their first opportunity to have significant teaching experience. Findings suggest two important factors for subject matter knowledge development: time for considering science subject matter and a learning setting that values science. In contrast, indicators of learner capacity (i.e., prior knowledge) and time teaching the topics were not associated with teacher subject matter knowledge development.
Subcell‐Resolved Electroluminescence Imaging of Monolithic Perovskite/Silicon Tandem Solar Cell for High‐Throughput Characterization
Authors: Djeukeu Ivanol Jaurece , Horn Jonas , Meixner Michael , Wagner Enno , Glunz Stefan W. , Ramspeck Klaus
Published: August 2024

In the midterm future, the photovoltaic industry is expected to be dominated by two‐terminal (2T) perovskite–silicon (pero–Si) tandem solar cells, which have high energy conversion efficiency and require characterization for large‐scale production. Electroluminescence (EL) imaging is one of the most prevalent and nondestructive techniques for defect detection, recognition, and characterization in Si‐solar cells in mass production. This work presents an EL setup that enables fast, simultaneous, and separate luminescence capture from the two subcells of pero–Si tandem devices. To demonstrate the setup, several encapsulated 2T pero–Si tandem samples are investigated. First, the effect that resistive coupling between the two subcells has on defect appearance in EL images is recorded. Therefore, EL image under different operational conditions is recorded. A strong dependence of defect signatures on current injection is observed, that is explained partly by resistive coupling but partly as well by injection‐dependent changes of the prevalent defects in the cells. An investigation of preconditioning under dark forward operation reveals significant local decrease of EL intensity going along with rapid reversible or irreversible and severe degradation close to the edges of the samples. This degradation takes place under forward bias during a period of ≈1 h.
Subway Fine Particles (PM2.5)‐Induced Pro‐Inflammatory Response Triggers Airway Epithelial Barrier Damage Through the TLRs/NF‐κB‐Dependent Pathway In Vitro
Authors: Zeng Fanmei , Pang Guanhua , Hu Liwen , Sun Yuan , Peng Wen , Chen Yuwei , Xu Dan , Xia Qing , Zhao Luwei , Li Yifei , He Miao
Published: August 2024

Subways are widely used in major cities around the world, and subway fine particulate matter (PM2.5) is the main source of daily PM2.5 exposure for urban residents. Exposure to subway PM2.5 leads to acute inflammatory damage in humans, which has been confirmed in mouse in vivo studies. However, the concrete mechanism by which subway PM2.5 causes airway damage remains obscure. In this study, we found that subway PM2.5 triggered release of pro‐inflammatory cytokines such as interleukin 17E, tumor necrosis factor α, transforming growth factor β, and thymic stromal lymphopoietin from human bronchial epithelial cells (BEAS‐2B) in a dose–effect relationship. Subsequently, supernatant recovered from the subway PM2.5 group significantly increased expression of the aforementioned cytokines in BEAS‐2B cells compared with the subway PM2.5 group. Additionally, tight junctions (TJs) of BEAS‐2B cells including zonula occludens‐1, E‐cadherin, and occludin were decreased by subway PM2.5 in a dose‐dependent manner. Moreover, supernatant recovered from the subway PM2.5 group markedly decreased the expression of these TJs compared with the control group. Furthermore, inhibitors of toll‐like receptors (TLRs) and nuclear factor‐kappa B (NF‐κB), as well as chelate resins (e.g., chelex) and deferoxamine, remarkably ameliorated the observed changes of cytokines and TJs caused by subway PM2.5 in BEAS‐2B cells. Therefore, these results suggest that subway PM2.5 induced a decline of TJs after an initial ascent of cytokine expression, and subway PM2.5 altered expression of both cytokines and TJs by activating TLRs/NF‐κB‐dependent pathway in BEAS‐2B cells. The metal components of subway PM2.5 may contribute to the airway epithelial injury.
Green synthesis of Cu/Cu2O nanoparticles using Ageratum conyzoides leaf extract and their antibacterial activity
Authors: Ngoc Tran Thi Thanh , Sau Nguyen Thi , Anh Le Huu Quynh , Tuan Phan Dinh
Published: August 2024

Copper nanoparticles have attracted significant interest due to their antibacterial activities in many different applications. This study introduces the utilization of leaf extract of Ageratum conyzoides, a widely‐known plant in Vietnam, and evaluates its antimicrobial efficacy through the eco‐friendly synthesis of Cu/Cu2O nanoparticles (NPs) using CuSO4 as a precursor. In this research, the Ageratum conyzoides leaf extract serves dual purposes, acting as both a reducing agent and a stabilizing agent for Cu/Cu2O nanoparticles. The synthesis of Cu/Cu2O NPs was successfully developed and their optical properties were analyzed using UV–visible spectroscopy. The structural characterization of synthesized nanoparticles was carried out using X‐ray diffraction while transmission electron microscopy facilitated morphological observations. In addition, energy‐dispersive X‐ray analysis confirmed the presence of copper, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy confirmed the presence of functional groups on the nanoparticle surface. The results revealed that the synthesized Cu/Cu2O NPs were spherical morphology with an average size of around 5 nm observed from TEM images. Furthermore, the results show the ability to inhibit the growth of various pathogenic microorganisms of the synthesized nanoparticles by around 30% and exhibit potential antibacterial properties.
Prevalence of Fasciola hepatica infection in slaughtered sheep from Northwest Tunisia and its risk factors: Association with gastrointestinal helminths infection and anaemia
Authors: Hammami Ines , Amdouni Yosra , Romdhane Rihab , Sassi Limam , Farhat Nadia , Rekik Mourad , Gharbi Mohamed
Published: August 2024

We investigated herein the prevalence of Fasciola hepatica infection in sheep at Sejnane slaughterhouse, governorate of Bizerte, Northwest of Tunisia, using three different diagnostic techniques (liver dissection, bile examination, and coprology). Faeces, liver, gall bladder as well as blood samples were collected from 603 slaughtered sheep in two seasons: winter and summer. Faecal egg counts of F. hepatica were estimated using sedimentation technique. Livers were examined for the presence of flukes, and bile collected from gall bladder was examined by sedimentation technique for the presence of F. hepatica eggs. Faecal egg counts of gastrointestinal helminths were estimated using flotation followed by the McMaster technique. Blood samples were used to estimate blood cell count (RBC) (×106/mL), haemoglobin (Hb) (g/dL), and haematocrit (Ht) (%) levels. A total of 1714 F. hepatica flukes were collected from 68 infected livers, the number of flukes per sheep ranged between naught and 195. Bile examination (16.78% ± 1.83; 51/310) showed the higher infection prevalence, followed by liver dissection (11.28% ± 1.17; 68/603) and coprology (9.12% ± 1.08; 55/603) (p = 0.015). Infection prevalences were significantly higher in young sheep aged of less than 1 year (8.13% ± 1.22; 49/498), in cross‐bred sheep (10.61% ± 1.39%; 64/478), and in summer (7.13% ± 1.82; 43/293) (p < 0.05). There was no significant difference in infection prevalence by gastrointestinal helminths in F. hepatica‐infected and F. hepatica‐non‐infected animals (p > 0.05). The overall prevalence of F. hepatica‐infected anaemic sheep was higher (22.73% ± 4.47; 20/88) than F. hepatica‐non‐infected anaemic sheep (p < 0.05). Fasciola hepatica infection is frequent in sheep from Sejnane representing hence an important constraint for the development of the sheep industry in this region. Therefore, it is necessary to establish and implement a specific control programme to reduce fasciolosis infection risks including animal owners’ education.
Facile strategy for the synthesis of antimicrobial poly(vinyl chloride) functionalized with benzimidazole
Authors: Darwish Shaban A. , Abdel‐Monem Reham A. , Rabie Samira T. , El‐Liethy Mohamed Azab , Hemdan Bahaa A. , Gaballah Samir T.
Published: August 2024

Synthesizing antimicrobial materials is a viable approach to combating microbes and mitigating their detrimental consequences on public health and economic domains. Here, we aim to design and synthesize hybrid polymers composed of poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC) and benzimidazole derivatives, in addition to evaluating their antimicrobial efficacy. PVC was chemically functionalized affording 4 conjugates where the benzimidazole motif was incorporated indirectly into the PVC through a triazole ring combined with a short linker. This functionalized PVC was synthesized by employing Cu azide–alkyne cycloaddition (CuAAC) conditions (click chemistry). The second functionalized PVC was synthesized by a nucleophilic substitution reaction to give 5, which has a benzimidazole moiety attached directly to the PVC via a short spacer arm. The benzimidazole derivatives and the corresponding benzimidazole‐PVC conjugates were investigated by elemental analysis and spectroscopic techniques (IR, NMR, and MS) as needed, besides UV–vis spectroscopy, x‐ray diffraction (XRD), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy dispersive x‐ray spectroscopy (EDX) in the case of the polymeric conjugates. The SEM morphology demonstrated a change in the PVC surface after the modification, showing spongy structures. Furthermore, the chemical characterization using EDX revealed peaks representing C, O, and N, in addition to the characteristic Cl peaks. The benzimidazole derivatives and the corresponding functionalized PVC were evaluated as antimicrobial agents against a variety of Gram‐negative and Gram‐positive bacteria and fungi strains utilizing the well diffusion assay. The data revealed an improvement in the antimicrobial activity of the functionalized PVC (4) that contained triazolobenzimidazole against pathogenic Escherichia coli and S. typhimurium.

Highlights

Microbes have negative impact on public health and economic domains

Synthesizing antimicrobial materials is a viable approach to combating microbes

We herein synthesized PVC/benzimidazole hybrid polymers

Functionalized PVC was synthesized and characterized by IR, NMR, SEM and EDX

PVC/benzimidazole hybrids were evaluated as antimicrobial agents.
Findings of tornado site investigations undertaken following damage during Storm Ciarán on 1–2 November 2023
Authors: Horton Sarah L.
Published: August 2024

On 1‐2 November 2023, Storm Ciarán impacted the British Isles, causing widespread wind damage and significant disruption to the Channel Islands and parts of southern England. Three areas within this wider swathe ‐ Jersey (Channel Islands), Loders in Dorset and Sompting/Lancing in West Sussex ‐ suffered additional, more severe, localised wind damage. These areas were investigated by the Tornado and Storm Research Organisation (TORRO). Each of these sites was found to have been affected by a tornado. The most intense of these was in Jersey, where one of the strongest tornadoes in the UK and Channel Islands since 1954 occurred.
Technical and economic challenges for floating offshore wind deployment in Italy and in the Mediterranean Sea
Authors: Serri Laura , Airoldi Davide , Lanni Francesco , Naldi Roberto , Castorrini Alessio , Rispoli Franco , Soukissian Takvor , Castro Santos Laura , Le Boulluec Marc , Maisondieu Christophe
Published: August 2024

Offshore wind is nowadays already well developed in the North European countries. Ninety‐nine percent of the offshore wind turbines are installed on fixed foundations in shallow waters. For areas with water depth greater than 50–60 m, the floating wind is the cheapest and mostly used technology. This technology is going to reach the commercial phase in a few years, thus disclosing the potential of all marine areas with deep waters close to the coast, including the Mediterranean basin. One of the main challenges for floating offshore wind deployment in this area is the achievement of its economic feasibility. The offshore wind resource in the Mediterranean is generally lower than the one in the North Sea and in Oceans and the cost of offshore wind farms, especially with floating technology, is higher than the present offshore wind farm installations also because this industrial sector has not yet started in this area. However, in the Mediterranean area, the potential of offshore wind to contribute to the decarbonization pathway and reduce the dependence on imported fuel supply is substantial. Numerous studies, examined in this article, have already performed a technical‐economic assessment of offshore wind farms in different countries and geographical areas within the basin. A significant number of offshore wind projects are already in different stages of development, confirming the industrial interest and readiness of the Mediterranean offshore wind energy sector. The article provides a comprehensive review of various factors influencing the future deployment of offshore wind in the Mediterranean. It covers a range of topics including technology advancements, resource assessment, wind energy potential, ongoing projects, costs, and economic aspects. Additionally, it discusses environmental sustainability, regulatory frameworks, supply chain logistics, and system integration. The updated review presented in this article could assist decision‐makers and stakeholders in gaining a better understanding of the characteristics of this promising sector and accelerating its development.

This article is categorized under:

Sustainable Energy > Wind Energy
Climate Change: Melting Ice and Statistical Models
Authors: Brugge Doug , Datesman Aaron
Published: August 2024

The foundation upon which the rest of this book rests is that evidence of climate change is robust and most visible in the retreating ice in glaciers. The exact speed at which the climate is changing is open to debate, it could be faster or slower, depending on models. The extent of harm also has some uncertainty, however, we agree that we need to move quickly away from fossil fuels. This has led to consideration of expanded roles for nuclear and renewables, which is the focus of the rest of this book.
Nuclear Waste
Authors: Brugge Doug , Datesman Aaron
Published: August 2024

High level radioactive waste is produced by nuclear power plants that must be stored and protected for centuries or millennia until it decays to acceptable levels. To date few repositories have been approved and none have received waste yet. The ability of these underground storage facilities to last the required times is impossible to fully know.
Nuclear Proliferation
Authors: Brugge Doug , Datesman Aaron
Published: August 2024

Supporters of nuclear power expansion resist the notion that nuclear power is connected to nuclear weapons proliferation. However, nuclear power is a necessary precondition, albeit insufficient by itself, for developing nuclear weapons. Plutonium, which is produced by all nuclear reactors in their waste stream, is a primary concern because it can be, and has been, purified in large quantities, small amounts of which are needed for a bomb.
New Nuclear Power: Expensive, Slow, and Inferior
Authors: Brugge Doug , Datesman Aaron
Published: August 2024

New commercial nuclear power is more expensive and far slower to bring on-line than wind or solar photovoltaic energy generation facilities. The society should dedicate its resources especially to the large-scale deployment of offshore wind.
State Responsibilities and International Obligations in Responding to Climate Mobilities: What Should International Assistance Look Like?
Authors: Moore Liam
Published: August 2024

Climate change-related events are already pushing people towards mobility, and it is likely this dynamic will only escalate as the effects of the climate crisis are more readily felt. Despite knowing this, before 2018, there were very few examples of state-level policies to manage climate mobilities. Unpacking the two path-leading policies designed by Fiji and Vanuatu in this space, we can see a significant recognition of the rights that individuals faced with mobility have and the obligations that states have to take to protect these rights and prevent harm. Although these policies are still in their infancy, we can already see significant barriers to implementation developing. In addition, considering the unequal distribution of responsibility for the drivers of climate change, there is a compelling legal and moral argument that the international community has a duty to step forward and assist states like these in discharging their responsibilities and managing climate mobilities effectively. In this chapter, I argue that the early experiences of Fiji and Vanuatu show us that the international community has a responsibility to help and I attempt to showcase what this responsibility should look like. It is my assertion that the international support must be locally led and tailored to local needs and context. Those who know how to best implement policies are already on the ground, so instead of parachuting in foreign experts, local actors should be supported and assisted with technical and financial support that builds their capacity.
Tropical Cyclones and the Mobility of Older Persons: Insights from Coastal Bangladesh
Authors: Malak Md. Abdul , Lina Nazia Khan
Published: August 2024

Cyclones occur almost annually in Bangladesh, causing significant harm to people living on the coast. It is argued that less attention has been paid to older persons in the development and migration-related literature. In response, this study explores how cyclone impacts influence the decision-making capabilities of older persons with respect to mobility as an adaptation strategy. The study area is in Gabura (a coastal union) as a place of origin, but migrant participants for interviews were also selected from the coastal municipality of Shyamnagar and the district city of Satkhira, as well as the mega-capital city of Dhaka. The data was collected through qualitative research, including in-depth interviews and focus group discussions. The study results show that older adults face challenges during cyclones, which can lead to migration. Older persons face various economic, social, and cultural issues, including the loss of property and assets, disruption of social networks, and loss of cultural practices due to climate change-generated hazards. The results suggest that mobility to nearby towns or big cities is a common response of older persons to climate change. It is also found that such mobility decisions of older persons improved their resilience to cyclones. Overall, this study advances the knowledge concerning mobility among the elderly in the face of tropical cyclones and other coastal environmental stressors. The findings can be useful in developing policies and programmes that include older persons and address their specific needs and vulnerabilities in the context of climate change.
Rising Waters, Stagnant Paths: Gendered Experiences of Flooding and Restricted Mobility in Can Tho City, Viet Nam
Authors: Nizar Danang Aditya , Dang Ly Quoc
Published: August 2024

Viet Nam’s response to its vulnerability to climate change impacts is marked by the integration of climate change concerns into sectoral laws. The Government of Viet Nam has also acknowledged the interlinkages of climate change, gender equality, and mobility within its climate regulatory framework. However, the focus on climate-related mobility has predominantly centred on macro-level mobility, which refers to the broad categorisation of migration, displacement, and planned relocation, with limited attention given to micro-level mobility. This chapter understands micro-level mobility as the smaller-scale and day-to-day movements which involve individual decisions regarding daily activities, destinations, and modes of travel. Furthermore, challenges remain in translating national commitments into local action, as evidenced by urban flooding in Can Tho City. Complex interactions between political, economic, social, and environmental elements contribute to recurring floods, with a disconnection between central Government commitments and local implementation, resulting in gendered impacts. Women in Can Tho City bear disproportionate impacts during recurring flood events, restricting their micro-level mobility in the household and public sphere. Women’s decision to remain during floods results from a complex interplay between risk perception, socio-economic elements which contribute to vulnerability, and limited macro-level mobility options. However, at the same time, these women also actively employ strategies to cope with their restricted mobility, which signifies their agency in negotiating the associated risks and adapting to recurring floods. These insights into women’s mobility behaviour during flooding offer a valuable starting point for policymakers to integrate gender and mobility, both at the macro and micro-level dynamics, into concrete climate actions. The findings also underscore the need to pay more attention to micro-level mobility within the climate-related mobility discourse.
Humanitarian Aid Distribution in the Context of Human Rights-Based Approach Among Vulnerable Communities: Flash Floods and Climate Change in North Luwu, Indonesia
Authors: Ruslanjari Dina , Ramadhan Cahyadi , Al Hakim Inayah Bastin , Marsida Feby Aulia
Published: August 2024

North Luwu Regency in South Sulawesi Province, Indonesia, was struck by a flash flood in 2020, resulting in 38 reported deaths and 106 people missing. Additionally, 20,562 residents were forced to evacuate and were referred to as internally displaced persons (IDPs). The handling and protection of the affected community or IDPs in an emergency and a post-emergency period requires proper, integrated, and measurable management. The research done in North Luwu Regency, employed a qualitative approach and was conducted through observation, in-depth interviews, and focus group discussions (FGDs) with heads of villages and the officials, religious and local traditional leaders, NGOs, related agencies, and the IDPs. The findings of this study indicate that the policies regarding aid provision during flash floods are considered quite comprehensive, given that the region experiences similar disasters frequently. The findings also suggest that the implementation of IDP protection is comprehensive but encounters some challenges, including hindered aid distribution due to difficult access to disaster-stricken areas, non-targeted and non-centralised aid distribution, as well as the ineffectiveness of the random system for temporary housing for IDPs. In terms of perception, the community expresses satisfaction with the government’s performance in providing humanitarian aid and logistics, resulting in tangible impacts. Furthermore, no discriminatory practices based on religion, ethnicity/race, gender, background, or economic status were found in the aid distribution.
Thoracolumbar injuries: operative treatment: indications, techniques, timing and implant removal. Current practice
Authors: Bloemers Frank , Jug Marko , Nau Christoph , Komadina Radko , Pape Hans Christoph , Wendt Klaus
Published: August 2024

The operative treatment of thoracolumbar fractures is a rapidly evolving improvement in the care of patients with this injury after trauma. This article describes the different techniques and principles. Considerations and methods of treatment are scientifically addressed and illustrated according to the classification and severity of the fracture pattern. The use of computer navigation and optimisation of minimally invasive techniques is inevitable. The timing of surgery as well the removal of the material after fracture healing are also discussed. The operative treatment of spinal fractures is emerging and there is still much more knowledge to gain.
Efficacy and outcomes of rescue screws in unstable pelvic ring injuries – A retrospective matched cohort study
Authors: Klingebiel Felix Karl-Ludwig , Kalbas Yannik , Klee Octavia , Long Anhua , Teuben Michel , Teuber Henrik , Halvachizadeh Sascha , Berk Till , Neuhaus Valentin , Pape Hans-Christoph , Pfeifer Roman
Published: August 2024

Purpose

The emergency treatment of unstable pelvic ring injuries is still a challenge and requires surgical and anesthesiological resuscitation. Emergency fixation of the unstable pelvic ring with percutaneous sacroiliac (SI) screws, also known as “Rescue Screws”, is an established treatment method. The aim of our study was to compare the outcome and complication rates of “Rescue Screws” with elective SI-screw fixations.

Methods

A 1:1 ratio nearest-neighbor matched, retrospective cohort study of trauma patients with acute pelvic ring injuries at a level one trauma center was performed. Patients ≥ 15 years, treated with SI-screw fixation were included. Exclusion criteria: pathologic fractures, missing consent and navigated procedures. The primary outcome parameters was defined as SI-screw revision operations. Patients were stratified according to treatment strategy (RS: Rescue Screws; EL: elective SI-screws).

Results

From 392 patients identified between 11/2014 and 08/2021, 186 met the inclusion criteria with 41 in the RS Group and 145 in the EL group. After matching, 41 patients were included in each group with similar baseline characteristics except persistent hemodynamic shock (RS: n = 22 (53.37%) vs. EL: n = 1 (4.3%), p < 0.001). Surgical characteristics were comparable in terms of instrumentation levels and insertion-sites. No significant differences were observed in the outcome parameters (revisions, reoperations, implant-associated complications, LOS and mortality) between both groups.

Conclusion

Treatment of unstable pelvic ring fractures with Rescue Screws appears as a feasible treatment option for emergency stabilization. Rescue Screws are not associated with elevated revision rates and increased complications rates. This minimally invasive technique enables safe emergency stabilization of the posterior pelvic ring. Prospective or randomized clinical trials are required to directly compare Rescue Screws with other competing emergency stabilization techniques.
Is patient-reported outcome after treatment of unstable pelvic ring injuries related to pelvic symmetry? A prospective study
Authors: Therrien Camryn C. , ten Duis Kaj , Banierink Hester , de Vries Jean-Paul P. M. , Reininga Inge H. F. , IJpma Frank F. A.
Published: August 2024

Purpose

To determine the relation between pelvic symmetry, as measured by the cross-measurement technique, and patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) in terms of functional status and health-related quality of life.

Methods

In this prospective cohort study, X and Y measurements were taken according to the cross-measurement technique on AP radiographs of patients who were treated for an unstable pelvic ring injury in a level-1 trauma center. Patients completed PROMs at the time of admission (recalled pre-injury score) and one year following their injury, reporting their functional status with the Short Musculoskeletal Function Assessment (SMFA-NL), specifically the lower extremity dysfunction (LED), problems with daily activities (PDA) and mental and emotional problems (MEP) subscales, and quality of life with EuroQol-5D (EQ-5D). Subgroup analyses were also performed. PROMs were used to analyze the relation between pelvic symmetry and patient-reported outcome, using Spearman’s Rank correlation coefficients.

Results

A total of 130 patients (mean age 58 (SD18) years) with an unstable pelvic ring injury were included, of which 95 (73%) sustained type-B injuries and 35 (27%) type-C injuries. Sixty-three (49%) patients were treated operatively. The median pelvic symmetry ratio was 1.01 (IQR: 0.05). Weak or no correlations were found between the pelvic symmetry scores and the outcome measurements (Spearman’s correlation coefficients: LED r = 0.09; PDA r = 0.11; MEP r=-0.02; and EQ-5D r=-0.08). Subgroup analyses revealed no correlations.

Conclusions

No significant relation was found between pelvic symmetry, measured radiologically, and functional status and health-related quality of life, one year following an unstable pelvic ring injury.
Der Zusammenhang zwischen Adipositas, sozialer Isolation und psychischer Gesundheit – Ergebnisse der LIFE-Adult-Studie
Authors: Görres Charlyn , Hoßbach Jana , Pabst Alexander , Luppa Melanie , Stein Janine , Welzel Franziska D. , Jung Franziska U. , Hussenoeder Felix S. , Engel Christoph , Kirsten Toralf , Reyes Nigar , Wirkner Kerstin , Riedel-Heller Steffi G. , Löbner Margrit
Published: August 2024

Hintergrund

Bevölkerungsbasierte Studien zum Zusammenhang von sozialer Isolation und Adipositas, die auch jüngere Erwachsene einschließen, fehlen in Deutschland bisher. Ziel der vorliegenden Arbeit ist die Untersuchung der Prävalenzen sozialer Isolation bei Menschen mit und ohne Adipositas. Zudem werden sozial Isolierte mit und ohne Adipositas hinsichtlich soziodemografischer und sozioökonomischer Faktoren sowie depressiver Symptomatik untersucht.

Methoden

Grundlage waren die Baseline-Daten der LIFE-Adult-Studie (18–79 Jahre) aus dem Studienzeitraum 2011–2014. Die untersuchte Stichprobe umfasste n = 8350 Teilnehmende. Erhoben wurden neben soziodemografischen Charakteristika und dem sozioökonomischen Status (SES), Daten zur sozialen Isolation (LSNS-6), zu Depressivität (ADS) und Body-Mass-Index (BMI). Die Auswertungen erfolgten mittels inferenzstatistischer Analysen und linearer Regression.

Ergebnisse

Insgesamt waren 13,1 % der Gesamtstichprobe von sozialer Isolation betroffen. Teilnehmende mit Adipositas (20,4 %) wiesen eine signifikant (p < 0,001) höhere Prävalenz als jene ohne Adipositas auf (11,4 %). Eine bessere soziale Einbindung war signifikant mit jüngerem Alter (p < 0,001), weiblichem Geschlecht (p < 0,001), einem verheirateten (und zusammenlebenden) Familienstand (p < 0,001), einem höheren sozioökonomischen Status (p < 0,001) sowie einer geringeren depressiven Symptomatik (p < 0,001) assoziiert.

Diskussion

Ein höherer BMI ging nicht per se mit einer schlechteren sozialen Einbindung einher. Es zeigte sich jedoch, dass sozial isolierte Menschen mit Adipositas im Vergleich zu jenen ohne Adipositas eine besondere Risikogruppe für eine eingeschränkte psychische Gesundheit darstellen und eine doppelt so hohe Prävalenz von sozialer Isolation aufwiesen.
Navigating the transition: a multidisciplinary approach to inflammatory bowel disease in children
Authors: Raffaele A. , Ferlini C. M. , Fusi G. , Lenti M. V. , Cereda E. , Caimmi S. M. E. , Bertozzi M. , Riccipetitoni G.
Published: August 2024

Purpose

A multidisciplinary approach to Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) has recently demonstrated a positive impact in pediatric patients, reducing dropout rates and facilitating the transition to adult care. Our study aims to evaluate how this approach influences disease activity, dropout rates, and transition.

Methods

We conducted a longitudinal observational study including all patients diagnosed with IBD during pediatric-adolescent age, with a minimum follow-up period of 12 months. For each patient, endpoints included therapeutic approach, need for surgery and transition features.

Results

We included 19 patients: 13 with Ulcerative Colitis (UC) and 6 with Crohn’s disease (CD). Most patients required multiple lines of therapy, with over 50% in both groups receiving biological drugs. Compliance was good, with a single dropout in each group (10, 5%). The need for surgery was significantly higher in the CD group compared to the UC group (16% vs. 7.7%, p < 0.01). Mean age at transition was significantly higher in the UC group compared to the CD group (19.2 ± 0.7 years SD vs. 18.3 ± 0.6 years SD, p < 0.05).

Conclusions

In our experience, the multidisciplinary approach to IBD in transition-age patients appears effective in achieving clinical remission, offering the potential to reduce therapeutic dropouts.
Akinetic crisis and withdrawal syndromes: guideline “Parkinson’s disease” of the German Society of Neurology
Authors: Pötter-Nerger Monika , Löhle Matthias , Höglinger Günter ,   German Parkinson‘s Guideline Group
Published: August 2024

The akinetic crisis is a well-known, rare, potentially life-threatening condition in Parkinson’s disease with subacute worsening of akinesia, rigidity, fever, impaired consciousness, accompanying vegetative symptoms and transient dopa-resistance. The akinetic crisis was historically supposed to be a “withdrawal syndrome” in the sense of discontinuation of dopaminergic medication. Recently, other “withdrawal syndromes” as the specific “dopamine agonist withdrawal syndrome” or “deep brain stimulation withdrawal syndrome” have been described as emergency situations with specific subacute symptom constellations. All three conditions require immediate start of the adequate therapy to improve the prognosis. Here, the diagnostic criteria and treatment options of these three acute, severely disabling syndromes will be reported along the current guidelines of the German Parkinson Guideline Group.