bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
La libertad de expresión y el lenguaje sexual en la música “zouglou” y “couper décaler” de Costa de Marfil
Authors: Koffi Yao
Published: October 2011

Este estudio trata del proceso de creación léxica referente al sexo y a la vida sexual en Costa de Marfil. Mediante los géneros musicales: el “zouglou”, el “couper décaler” y el lenguaje “nouchi”, el habla de los marfileños se verá sembrada de palabras y expresiones tales como: “pinhou”; “gnangni”; “Kpètou”; “casser le kpètou”; “laver le gléi”; etc. En suma, son estos fenómenos lingüisticos que se recogen en esta investigación.
Cryosolic soils of Canada: Genesis, distribution, and classification
Authors: Tarnocai Charles , Bockheim James
Published: October 2011

Tarnocai, C. and Bockheim, J. G. 2011. Cryosolic soils of Canada: Genesis, distribution, and classification. Can. J. Soil. Sci. 91: 749–762. Cryosols are permafrost-affected soils whose genesis is dominated by cryogenic processes, resulting in unique macromorphologies, micromorphologies, thermal characteristics, and physical and chemical properties. In addition, these soils are carbon sinks, storing high amounts of organic carbon collected for thousands of years. In the Canadian soil classification, the Cryosolic Order includes mineral and organic soils that have both cryogenic properties and permafrost within 1 or 2 m of the soil surface. This soil order is divided into Turbic, Static and Organic great groups on the basis of the soil materials (mineral or organic), cryogenic properties and depth to permafrost. The great groups are subdivided into subgroups on the basis of soil development and the resulting diagnostic soil horizons. Cryosols are commonly associated with the presence of ground ice in the subsoil. This causes serious problems when areas containing these soils are used for agriculture and construction projects (such as roads, town sites and airstrips). Therefore, where Cryosols have high ice content, it is especially important either to avoid these activities or to use farming and construction methods that maintain the negative thermal balance.
Podzolic soils of Canada: Genesis, distribution, and classification
Authors: Sanborn Paul , Lamontagne Luc , Hendershot William
Published: October 2011

Sanborn, P., Lamontagne, L. and Hendershot, W. 2011. Podzolic soils of Canada : Genesis, distribution, and classification. Can. J. Soil Sci. 91: 843–880. Podzolic soils occupy 14.3% of the Canadian landmass, and occur in two widely separated areas, eastern Canada (northern Ontario, Quebec, Maritimes) and British Columbia, usually under coniferous forest and on non-calcareous parent materials. Broad climatic control of Podzol distribution and properties is evident at the national scale, with higher organic matter concentrations (Ferro-Humic Podzols) in wetter climates, in contrast to Humo-Ferric Podzols predominating in drier boreal forest regions. Humic Podzols are least abundant and are restricted to the wettest landscape positions. International and Canadian research suggests that a more diverse range of processes is involved in podzolization than was envisioned in the 1960s, and proposed mechanisms must account for observed patterns of organic matter distribution and a diverse array of inorganic amorphous constituents in profiles. Taxonomic concepts of Podzolic soils in the Canadian System of Soil Classification have remained consistent since the late 1970s, and the higher-level criteria defining the order and its great groups have proved to be meaningful in new applications, such as delineating soil carbon stocks across Canadian landscapes. Canadian contributions to pedological research on Podzols declined dramatically after 1990, coincident with shifting research priorities in soil science and diminished activity in soil survey.
Organic soils of Canada: Part 2. Upland Organic soils
Authors: Fox Catherine , Tarnocai Charles
Published: October 2011

Fox, C. A. and Tarnocai, C. 2011. Organic soils of Canada: Part 2. Upland Organic soils. Can. J. Soil Sci. 91: 823–842. Soils from upland moderately well-drained environments with thick accumulations (>10 cm over lithic contact; >40 cm over mineral soil) of folic materials (forest materials, branches, roots, and other non-wetland materials) are classified within the Folisol great group in the Organic Order since the 1987 revision of the Canadian System of Soil Classification. The Folisol great group correlates to Folist in Keys to Soil Taxonomy and Folic Histosol in World Reference Base for Soil Resources (FAO). Two subgroups – Hemic and Humic Folisol – account for most Folisols addressing the state of decomposition of folic materials. The Lignic and Histic Folisol subgroups identify specific kinds of folic accumulations. Folisolic soils can occur throughout Canada, in forest, heath, and alpine ecosytems with cool, moist, humid environments, but are most prominent within the Pacific Maritime Ecozone; areal extent in Canada is ∼12 505 km2. The main genetic process is the accumulation and decomposition of the folic materials that lead to distinct F and H horizons. Recommendations for research needs are presented to address outstanding taxonomic questions for: 1. Classification of Folisols as a separate soil order; and 2. Taxonomic protocols for lowercase suffixes for the L, F and H horizons and the need for enhanced humus form classifications. Some of the historical proposals to address these issues are discussed. Folisols should be considered extremely sensitive environmentally because of their markedly different genetic development being dependent on thick accumulations of folic materials, their limited and unique distribution in Canada, and their importance for forest sustainability.
Organic Soils of canada: Part 1. Wetland Organic soils
Authors: Kroetsch David J. , Geng Xiaoyuan , Chang Scott X. , Saurette Daniel D.
Published: October 2011

Kroetsch, D. J., Geng, X., Chang, S. X. and Saurette, D. D. 2011. Organic soils of Canada:Part 1. Wetland Organic soils. Can. J. Soil Sci. 91: 807–822. In the Canadian System of Soil Classification, the Organic order represents those soils that have developed from materials that are comprised primarily of plant tissue remains and includes both wetland Organic soils and upland Organic soils. This review focuses on the first group; the latter group is discussed in Fox and Tarnocai (2011). Wetland Organic soils can be subdivided into three great groups: Fibrisol, Mesisol, and Humisol, reflecting the degree of decomposition of organic material and the vertical arrangement of different organic horizons and other horizons. Wetland Organic soils are present in all regions of Canada and are commonly referred to as (unfrozen) peatland soils. Unfrozen peatlands with Organic soils cover approximately 75 5568 km2 (8.4%) of the land area of Canada. The two primary processes of formation of wetland Organic soils are paludification and terrestrialization. The major taxonomic issues identified for the wetland Organic soils concerns the lack of taxonomic protocols for limnic materials within the soil control section. This is an issue for those soil profiles in which the middle tier is dominated by, if not entirely composed of, deposited limnic materials. Further work is required to determine if these issues should be expressed at the great group or subgroup level of classification. Our understanding of the effects of management practices such as cultivation, tree removal, drainage, and peat extraction on soil properties needs to be translated into models of soil development.
Vertisolic soils of Canada: Genesis, distribution, and classification
Authors: Brierley J. A. , Stonehouse H. B. , Mermut A. R.
Published: October 2011

Brierley, J. A., Stonehouse, H. B. and Mermut, A. R. 2011. Vertisolic soils of Canada: Genesis, distribution, and classification. Can. J. Soil Sci. 91: 903–916. The Vertisolic soil order is the most recent addition to the Canadian System of Soil Classification (1998). Soils of the Vertisolic order in Canada occur within the Brown, Dark Brown, and Black soil zones, associated with the Prairie ecozone. Due to the absence of swelling clays in central Canada, morphological characteristics of Vertisolic or vertic intergrades are not recognized in soils occurring to the east of Manitoba. Finetextured parent materials dominated by the presence of swelling silicate clays in conjunction with appropriate climatic factors are the principal soil-forming factors for these soils. Two Great Groups are recognized within the Vertisolic order: the Vertisol and Humic Vertisol. Soils of the Vertisol great group are associated with the arid portions of the Prairie ecozone, specifically the Mixed Grassland ecoregion, and Brown soil zone. Humic Vertisols occur within the Dark Brown and drier portions of the Black soil zone. Each Vertisolic soil great group contains three subgroups: Orthic, Gleyed and Gleysolic. Classification to this level is based upon the presence of mottles (reflecting the duration of soil saturation) within the upper 50 cm of the surface. Vertisolic soils develop in finetextured parent materials of high shrink-swell potential and pose problems for agricultural land use and engineering purposes.
Luvisolic soils of Canada: Genesis, distribution, and classification
Authors: Lavkulich L. M. , Arocena J. M.
Published: October 2011

Lavkulich, L. M. and Arocena, J. M. 2011. Luvisols of Canada: Genesis, distribution, and classification. Can. J. Soil Sci. 91: 781–806. Luvisols link the soil continuum on the Quaternary landscapes. These soils are developed from parent materials rich in Ca and Mg in a relatively humid climate. An acidic eluvial horizon overlying a phyllosilicate-enriched illuvial Bt horizon is the common horizon sequence in Luvisolic soils. Lessivage or the translocation of clays with minimal chemical alteration is the characteristic soil-forming process and results to the diagnostic Bt horizon with well-developed, oriented clay skins or cutans. These soils commonly form intergrades with Chernozems, Podzols and Vertisols. With time, the eluvial horizons experience increased chemical weathering and further release of sequioxides to form Brunisolic and Podzolic sequences within the eluvial Ae in biseqeual soils. Lessivage significantly influences several ecosystem functions of soils. The high amounts of phyllosilicates in the Bt horizon serve as one of the most active sorption sites in soils for metals and organic materials including soil carbon. Sorption of cations takes place through cation exchange reactions and determines the availability of cations to plant roots as well as in the “colloid facilitated transport” of strongly sorbing metals and organic pollutants. Clays in Bt can be restrictive to water and air movement as well as to root growth and distribution. Agricultural and forestry practices such as tillage can compact the structure of Luvisols and may decrease soil productivity.
Comparison of Antibacterial Effects of Various Root Canal Irrigants on Enterococcus faecalis
Authors: Kumar G Vinay , Uppin Veerendra , Shenoy Arvind
Published: October 2011

Aims

To compare the antibacterial effects of various root canal irrigants against E.faecalis. Irrigants tested were 5.25% NaOCl, 0.2% chlorhexidine gluconate, and 0.2% cetrimide individually and combined.

Materials and methods

Root canal preparation was performed on 120 extracted permanent maxillary central and lateral incisor teeth. Following root canal preparation, apical foramina were sealed with epoxy resin to prevent bacterial leakage. The root canals were then contaminated with Enterococcus faecalis. After incubation, the contaminated roots were divided into four groups of 30 each. 2 mm of irrigant was delivered which remained in the canal for 10 minutes. The canals were then irrigated with 1 ml saline solution and with size 45 sterile paper point bacteria were sampled. The growth of E. faecalis which occurred in the tubes was inoculated onto blood agar plates.

Statistical analysis

Difference between the antibacterial efficacies of irrigants was evaluated statistically using chi-square test.

Results

There was no significant difference between the antibacterial efficacies of 0.2% chlorhexidine gluconate alone and 0.2% chlorhexidine gluconate with 0.2% cetrimide, but both had a significantly lower antibacterial effect than 5.25% sodium hypochlorite and 5.25% sodium hypochlorite with 0.2% chlorhexidine gluconate. This difference was statistically significant.

Conclusions

Within limitations of this study, it was concluded that the 5.25% sodium hypochlorite and 5.25% sodium hypochlorite with 0.2% chlorhexidine gluconate had a higher antibacterial effect than 0.2% chlorhexidine gluconate alone and 0.2% chlorhexidine gluconate with cetrimide. There was no significant difference between the antibacterial efficacies of 0.2% chlorhexidine gluconate alone and 0.25% chlorhexidine with certrimide.
Intraosseous Odontoma
Authors: Mohammad Shadab , Malkunje Laxman R , Singh Nimisha
Published: October 2011

Odontomes show no gender predilection, and are most often diagnosed in the second decade of life. They are preferentially located in the upper maxilla, particularly in the anterior sector. Compound odontome are more prevalent than complex odontome, and show no predilection in terms of patient gender, age or location. We hereby report a case of large compound odontome in the mandibular angle region of a 55- year-old woman.

Most such lesions are asymptomatic and constitute casual findings in X-ray studies indicated for other reasons. The most common clinical manifestations are absence of impacted teeth and the presence of a tumor. Treatment consists of surgical removal of the lesion. The prognosis is very good, with a scant tendency towards relapse.
Laparoscopic Repair of Rectovesical Fistula after Radical Retrobupic Prostatectomy
Authors: Parma Paolo , Samuelli Alessandro , Dall'oglio Bruno , Cappellaro Livio , Bondavalli Candido , De Luca Francesco
Published: October 2011

Introduction

We present the video of a laparoscopic repair of a rectovesical fistula after radical retropubic prostatectomy. The rectal lesion had not been detected during the first procedure. The rectal bladder fistula appeared on the 14thpost-operative day. After three weeks from the procedure, the patient underwenta laparoscopic repair of the rectovesical fistula. A temporary external colon conduit was performed at the same time.

Materials and Methods

We performed a cystoscopy before the surgery; it showed a fistula behind the bladder neck at 5 o'clock, distally to the left ureteral orifice. Two ureteral stents were inserted into both the ureters to make sure not to determine any injury to these structures during the operation. With the patient in the supine position, we introduced 5 trocars with the Hasson technique trans-peritoneally The pouch of Douglas was opened and the bladder was divided from the rectum. The bladder posterior wall was widely opened till reaching the rectal bladder fistula. The fistula was located distally to the left ureteral orifice, very close to the bladder neck. Through a blunt dissection, we divided the margins of the rectal fistula from those of the posterior bladder wall. Indeed, we performed a suture of the rectal wall without any tension. The rectal lesion was closed in a double-layer suture with 3–0 Vicryl. We introduced a probe into the rectum to make sure there was no leakage on the suture. A flap of peritoneum of the Douglas was put between bladder and rectum. We closed the longitudinal opening of the trigone and the bladder posterior wall through a continuous suture. An external colic conduit was packaged to guarantee the closure of the fistula. The left colon was put through the abdominal wall widening the 5 mm trocar opening located on the left pararectal space.

Results

The operative time was 240 minutes. There were no post-operative complications. The bladder catheter was removed at 1 month after surgery, only after performing a cystography, which showed no leakage. Two months later, the colostomy was closed. At a 12-month follow-up the patient had no fistula recurrence.

Conclusions

The treatment of arectovesical fistula after radical prostatectomy remains a complex procedure: different types of corrective surgical approaches have been described. The laparoscopic approach is an alternative to standard procedures. The optical magnification allows a good view of the fistula in a very deep and narrow space. It also allows easy performing of the colostomy.
Epidemiology and natural history of POLG disease in Norway: a nationwide cohort study
Authors: Kristensen Erle , Mathisen Linda , Berland Siren , Klingenberg Claus , Brodtkorb Eylert , Rasmussen Magnhild , Tangeraas Trine , Bliksrud Yngve T. , Rahman Shamima , Bindoff Laurence Albert , Hikmat Omar
Published: June 2024

Objective

To investigate the prevalence and natural history of POLG disease in the Norwegian population.

Methods

A national, population‐based, retrospective study using demographic, clinical, and genetic data of patients with genetically confirmed POLG disease. The patients were diagnosed between 2002 and 2022, and were included into the Norwegian POLG Patient Registry. Patients were stratified according to age at disease onset (early <12 years, juvenile to adult 12–40 years, late ≥40 years) and resident region.

Results

Ninety‐one patients were included. The point prevalence of POLG disease was 1:149,253. Birth prevalence was 1:48,780. Median age at clinical onset was 16 years (range: 2 months to 70 years). Onset occurred early in 35% (32 out of 91), juvenile‐adult in 55% (50 out of 91) and late in 10% (9 out of 91). A distinct seasonal pattern in disease onset was observed, with 57% (52 out of 91) presenting between May and August. Forty‐five patients (49%) had acute exacerbations that required intensive care, and this affected 72% of those in the early‐onset group. The mortality rate was 54% (49 out of 91), with a median time from disease onset to death of 3 years (range: 1 month to 36 years).

Interpretation

We provide the point prevalence and birth prevalence of POLG disease in the first nationwide study in which epidemiological and clinical data were integrated. Seasonal variations in clinical onset may offer valuable insights into disease mechanisms and modifying factors. The findings from this study are crucial for quantifying the disease burden, and contribute to evidence‐based healthcare planning.
Parrino on AATOD conference: New regulations, MOTAA
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: June 2024

The most prominent issue at the large conference (attended by more than 1,700) of the American Association for the Treatment of Opioid Dependence (AATOD) was regulation, specifically, the new guidelines from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) on how opioid treatment programs must operate.
Precise and High‐Throughput Delivery of Micronutrients in Plants Enabled by Pollen‐Inspired Spiny and Biodegradable Microcapsules
Authors: Liu Muchun , Cao Yunteng , Li Zheng , Wang Emily , Ram Rajeev J. , Marelli Benedetto
Published: June 2024

Decarbonizing food production and mitigating agriculture's environmental impact require new technologies for precise delivery of fertilizers and pesticides to plants. The cuticle, a waxy barrier that protects the surface of leaves, causes 60%–90% runoff of fertilizers and pesticides, leading to the wastage of intensive resources, soil depletion, and water bodies pollution. Solutions to mitigate runoff include adding chemicals (e.g., surfactants) to decrease surface tension and enhance cuticles' permeability but have low efficacy. In this study, vapor‐induced synergistic differentiation (VISDi) is used to nanomanufacture echinate pollen‐like, high payload content (≈50 wt%) microcapsules decorated with robust spines that mechanically disrupt the cuticle and adhere to the leaf. VISDi induces a core–shell structure in the spines, enabling the release of agrochemicals from the microparticles' body into the leaf. As proof of concept, precise and highthroughput delivery of iron fertilizer in Fe‐deficient spinach plants is demonstrated. Spray of spiny microparticles improves leaf adhesion by mechanical interlocking, reduces wash‐off by an ≈12.5 fold, and enhances chlorophyll content by ≈7.3 times compared to the application of spherical counterparts. Together, these results show that spiny microparticles can mitigate agricultural runoff and provide a high‐throughput tool for precise plant drug delivery.
Improving the Electrochemical Stability of TiMn2 Middle‐Layer for Oxygen Evolution Anode in Sulfuric Acid Solution by High‐Temperature Nitriding
Authors: Qin Jitao , Li Jie , Liu Fangyang , Zhang Zongliang , Jiang Liangxing
Published: June 2024

Dimensional Stable Anode (DSA) is a promising candidate for the electrodeposition of nonferrous metals. However, the industrial applications of DSA are limited due to the propensity of Ti substrate to easily undergo passivation. Theoretically analyses shows that TiMn2 has better corrosion resistance in highly acidic and strongly polarized environments, making it an ideal middle‐layer for DSA anodes. To investigate the corrosion resistance of TiMn2, N‐doped TiMn2 (N‐TiMn2) is prepared by the high‐temperature nitriding method. The high charge transfer resistance (Rpo) of N‐TiMn2 reduces the electron transfer ability of its surface and improves the chemical stability. Scanning electron microscopy, X‐ray diffraction, and Raman spectroscopy show that Ti/N‐TiMn2 can better inhibit the oxidation of Ti during electrochemical corrosion while forming a more stable α‐MnO2 film. The Ti/N‐TiMn2/MnO2 anode is prepared, and the theoretical lifetime reaches 541.5 days in zinc electrodeposition simulation experiments. This middle layer provides a new idea for developing the oxygen evolution anode in the electrowinning of nonferrous metals.
Recyclable, Fully Bio‐Based, High‐Performance Cellulose Long Filament Reinforced Vanillyl Alcohol Epoxy Composites for Structural Applications
Authors: Adil Samia , Kumar Bijender , Pham Duc H. , Kim Jaehwan
Published: June 2024

The reusability of thermosets and their composites is challenging due to their robust crosslinked network structures, which underrate them as eco‐friendly materials and severely damage the ecosystem. Here, a novel biomass‐derived cellulose long filament (CLF)‐reinforced vanillyl alcohol epoxy (VAE) composite is fabricated that exhibited outstanding flexural strength of 232.2 ± 7.7 MPa and modulus of 26.9 ± 2.8 GPa compared to the previously reported bio‐mass derived composites. The green CLF‐VAE composite demonstrates good thermal stability and hydrophobic behavior due to the robust interaction between the hydroxyl (─OH) groups of CLFs and functional groups in the lignin‐derived VAE resin. Further, the chemical degradation behavior of the neat VAE thermoset and the green CLF‐VAE composite is studied in a nitric acid solution, and the recycled extract of the thermoset and its composite is used again for producing the 2nd generation CLF‐VAE composite. The optimized 2.5 wt.% loading of the recycled extract in the 2nd generation VAE thermoset and green CLF‐VAE composite demonstrated superior flexural strength and modulus compared to the 1st generation thermoset and composite. The recyclability, along with good thermal and mechanical properties of the biomass‐derived green CLF‐VAE composite, shows its potential for high‐performance structural applications, merging sustainability with circular economy for green solutions.
Magnetic‐Driven Hydrogel Spiral PVA/Fe3O4 Micromotors for Targeted Photothermal Therapy
Authors: Liu Suyi , Lu Qimin , Liang Ziying , Du Dailing , Chen Bin , Feng Ye , Gao Chao , Jiang Tingting , Tu Yingfeng , Peng Fei
Published: June 2024

Phototherapy has emerged as a promising technique for cancer treatment, offering high efficiency and minimal side effects. Nevertheless, conventional phototherapy agents suffer from low targetability and inefficient delivery. Here, a novel approach is proposed using helical hydrogel motors fabricated by combining polyvinyl alcohol, melamine, water, and Fe3O4 nanoparticles. These magnetic motors are capable of precise therapy on tumor cells driven by an external magnetic field. By converting light into heat upon near‐infrared illumination, the motors elevate the temperature of the targeted region, resulting in a significant therapeutic effect, with over 60% eradication of HeLa cells achieve under 808 nm near‐ infrared light (1.5 W cm−2). These helical micromotors exhibit excellent movement performance and biocompatibility, facilitating their in vivo applications and contributing to the advancement of biomedicine.
Dual Gallium Drug Treatment Against Carbapenem‐Resistant Klebsiella Pneumoniae: Efficacy and Potential Mechanism(s) of Action and Resistance
Authors: Scott Zachary , Choi Seoung‐ryoung , Britigan Bradley E. , Narayanasamy Prabagaran
Published: June 2024

Klebsiella pneumoniae (KLP) is a Gram‐negative pathogen that can be highly antibiotic‐resistant. Our group has worked with gallium‐based compounds as a means of treating bacterial infections. Here the possible mechanism is investigated for dual therapy comprised of gallium nitrate (Ga(NO3)3) and gallium protoporphyrin (GaPP) on KLP. It is found that in vitro the combination of Ga(NO3)3 and GaPP is synergistic against KLP. The in vivo efficacy is of the dual therapy is additionally tested by treating pulmonary KLP infections in mice. Much greater effectiveness are observed in bacterial clearance and survival of mice receiving the dual therapy than that of singly treated or untreated mice. It is found that in in vitro the dual therapy increased reactive oxygen stress in treated bacteria. Combination therapy impacted KLP catalase, but not superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity. Finally, alterations in KLP genes encoding 6‐phosphogluconate phosphatase or cytochrome C assembly protein are found to be associated with increased resistance to combination gallium therapy, raising the MIC to both Ga(NO3)3 and GaPP by 4‐fold. These cumulative data lend validation to the potential for the use of Ga(NO3)3 and GaPP combination therapy against KLP and suggest that increased oxidative stress is involved in the mechanism of action.
Additive‐Free Oxidized Spiro‐MeOTAD Hole Transport Layer Significantly Improves Thermal Solar Cell Stability
Authors: Grotevent Matthias J. , Lu Yongli , Šverko Tara , Shih Meng‐Chen , Tan Shaun , Zhu Hua , Dang Tong , Mwaura Jeremiah K. , Swartwout Richard , Beiglböck Finn , Kothe Linda , Bulović Vladimir , Bawendi Moungi G.
Published: June 2024

Perovskite solar cells are among the most promising new solar technologies, already surpassing polycrystalline silicon solar cell efficiencies. The stability of the highest efficiency devices at elevated temperature is, however, poor. These cells typically use Spiro‐MeOTAD as the hole transporting layer. It is generally believed that additives, required for enhancing electrical conductivity and optimizing energy level alignment, are responsible for the reduced stability—inferring that Spiro‐MeOTAD based hole transporting layers are intrinsically unstable. Here, a reliable noble metal free synthesis of Spiro‐MeOTAD (bis(trifluoromethane)sulfonimide)4 is presented which is used as the oxidizing agent. No additives are added to the partially oxidized Spiro‐MeOTAD hole‐transporting layer. Device efficiencies up to 24.2% are achieved. Electrical conductivity is largely developed by the first 1% oxidation. Further oxidation shifts the energy levels away from the vacuum level, which allows tuning of the energy level alignment without the use of additives—contradicting the current understanding of this system. Without additives, devices demonstrate significant improvement in stability at elevated temperatures up to 85 °C under one sun over 1400 h continuous illumination. The remaining degradation is pinpointed to ion migration and reactions in the perovskite layer which may be further suppressed with compositional engineering and adequate ion barrier layers.
Bladeless Wind Turbine Triboelectric Nanogenerator for Effectively Harvesting Random Gust Energy
Authors: Zhu Mingkang , Zhu Jianyang , Zhu Jinzhi , Zhao Zilong , Li Hengyu , Cheng Xiaojun , Wang Zhong Lin , Cheng Tinghai
Published: June 2024

In the environment, there is an abundance of gust energy which is challenging to harvest with conventional rotating wind turbines, such as the gusts generated by passing vehicles along roadsides. Addressing the irregular and low‐frequency characteristics of gusts, a bladeless wind turbine triboelectric nanogenerator (BWT‐TENG) with enhanced aerodynamic performance is proposed, enabling effective harvesting of random gust energy. First, a bladeless wind turbine with a cylindrical bluff body shape is designed, and its aerodynamic principles under gust‐driven conditions are elucidated through the computational fluid dynamics method. Subsequently, parameter optimization is conducted for the multilayered TENG. Systematic experiments demonstrated that the BWT‐TENG achieved a peak power density of 4.08 W m−3 driven by a gust of 10 m s−1, and can even operate at frequencies as low as 0.1 Hz. Finally, experiments showcased the BWT‐TENG powering a warning light in a simulated rainfall environment and harvesting gust energy from vehicles passing by real roadside to power wireless gyroscopic sensors, thereby achieving self‐powered structural health monitoring of roads or bridges. This work provides a novel strategy for utilizing TENGs in the harvest of environmental gust energy and demonstrates the vast potential of TENGs in the field of self‐powered structural health monitoring.
A mixed‐methods study on risk perception and safety practices among unorganized construction workers in a municipal area of West Bengal
Authors: Barman Sayantika , Sahu Monalisha , Chakraborty Arup , Dasgupta Akash
Published: June 2024

Background

The construction industry in India heavily relies on unorganized workers, who often lack adequate access to safety measures, placing them at significant risk of accidents and injuries. The objective was to determine risk perceptions of construction workers, and explore their safety practices, facilitators, and barriers.

Methods

A mixed‐methods approach with a convergent parallel design (QUAN + qual) was undertaken. Quantitative strand included face‐to‐face interviews with 203 randomly selected building construction workers from 10 construction sites in five selected municipal wards in Kolkata. Questions pertained to socio‐demographics, occupational characteristics, risk perception, and safety practices. The qualitative arm involved key informant interviews to unravel the facilitators and barriers affecting safety practices and nonparticipant observation.

Results

The perceived risk for respiratory problems due to dust, pain from carrying loads, slips, trips or falls, and heat‐related illnesses was in the medium‐ to high category for 64.0%, 58.6%, 39.9%, and 36.5% of the study participants, respectively. However, the safety practices for these respective domains were in the good practice category for 6.9%, 4.9%, 54.2%, and 34.5% of the workers. From the qualitative arm, it was evident that availability of PPE, a conducive environment, and availability of worker‐friendly technology could be important predictors of safety practices. Barriers such as time constraints and feasibility due to discomfort and expenditure were also identified.

Conclusion

Despite high‐risk perception, safety practices were not consistently good among construction workers. Further research is crucial to enhance the health and safety of unorganized workers in India.
Library‐Friendly Synthesis of Bicyclo[1.1.1]pentane‐Containing Sulfonamides via a Transition Metal‐Free Three‐Component Reaction
Authors: Ma Xiaoshen , Canfield Amanda M.
Published: June 2024

Herein we report the synthesis of bicyclo[1.1.1]pentane (BCP)‐containing sulfonamides via a transition metal‐free process of a three‐component reaction among BCP‐containing N‐tosyl hydrazones, 1,4‐diazabicyclo[2.2.2]octane bis(sulfur dioxide) adduct (DABSO), and amines. Different from existing methods to synthesize BCP‐containing sulfonamides, our method avoids the usage of sulfonyl halides, which could be challenging due to chemical instabilities. We have also demonstrated that this methodology is suitable for library synthesis of such sulfonamides. As a result, we can expect future application in drug discovery.
Accelerated Aging after Traumatic Brain Injury: An ENIGMA Multi‐Cohort Mega‐Analysis
Authors: Dennis Emily L , Vervoordt Samantha , Adamson Maheen M , Houshang Amiri , Bigler Erin D , Caeyenberghs Karen , Cole James H , Dams‐O'Connor Kristen , Deutscher Evelyn M , Dobryakova Ekaterina , Genova Helen M , Grafman Jordan H , Håberg Asta K , Hellstrøm Torgeir , Irimia Andrei , Koliatsos Vassilis E , Lindsey Hannah M , Livny Abigail , Menon David K , Merkley Tricia L , Mohamed Abdalla Z , Mondello Stefania , Monti Martin M , Newcombe Virginia FJ , Newsome Mary R , Ponsford Jennie , Rabinowitz Amanda , Smevik Hanne , Spitz Gershon , Venkatesan Umesh M , Westlye Lars T , Zafonte Ross , Thompson Paul M , Wilde Elisabeth A , Olsen Alexander , Hillary Frank G
Published: June 2024

Objective

The long‐term consequences of traumatic brain injury (TBI) on brain structure remain uncertain. Given evidence that a single significant brain injury event increases the risk of dementia, brain‐age estimation could provide a novel and efficient indexing of the long‐term consequences of TBI. Brain‐age procedures use predictive modeling to calculate brain‐age scores for an individual using structural magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) data. Complicated mild, moderate, and severe TBI (cmsTBI) is associated with a higher predicted age difference (PAD), but the progression of PAD over time remains unclear. We sought to examine whether PAD increases as a function of time since injury (TSI) and if injury severity and sex interacted to influence this progression.

Methods

Through the ENIGMA Adult Moderate and Severe (AMS)‐TBI working group, we examine the largest TBI sample to date (n = 343), along with controls, for a total sample size of n = 540, to replicate and extend prior findings in the study of TBI brain age. Cross‐sectional T1w‐MRI data were aggregated across 7 cohorts, and brain age was established using a similar brain age algorithm to prior work in TBI.

Results

Findings show that PAD widens with longer TSI, and there was evidence for differences between sexes in PAD, with men showing more advanced brain age. We did not find strong evidence supporting a link between PAD and cognitive performance.

Interpretation

This work provides evidence that changes in brain structure after cmsTBI are dynamic, with an initial period of change, followed by relative stability in brain morphometry, eventually leading to further changes in the decades after a single cmsTBI. ANN NEUROL 2024;96:365–377
Construction of Frustrated Lewis Pairs in Poly(heptazine Imide) Nanosheets via Hydrogen Bonds for Boosting CO2 Photoreduction
Authors: Zhou Min , Wang Haozhi , Liu Rong , Liu Zheyang , Xiao Xinyan , Li Weilin , Gao Chao , Lu Zhou , Jiang Zhifeng , Shi Weidong , Xiong Yujie
Published: June 2024

The creation of frustrated Lewis pairs on catalyst surface is an effective strategy for tuning CO2 activation. The critical step in the formation of frustrated Lewis pairs is the spatial effect of proximal Lewis acid‐Lewis base pairs. Here, we demonstrate a facile surface functionalization methodology that enables hydrogen bonding between N and H atoms to mediate the construction of frustrated Lewis pairs in poly(heptazine imide), thereby increasing the propensity to activate CO2 molecules. Experimental and theoretical results show that the construction of active hydrogen bonding regions can facilitate the bending of CO2 molecules. Furthermore, the delocalization of electron clouds induced by the hydrogen bonding‐mediated frustrated Lewis pairs can promote the heterolytic cleavage and photocatalytic conversion of CO2. This work highlights the potential of utilizing hydrogen bonding‐mediated strategy in heterogeneously photocatalytic activation of CO2 over polymer materials.
Bionic layered hydrogel with high strength for excellent lubrication and load capacity
Authors: Zhang Ran , Ning Fangdong , Hu Xuxu , Zhen Jinming , Ge Bo , Jia Zhengfeng
Published: June 2024

Traditional hydrogels with soft and wet features often show poor mechanical properties due to their single cross‐linked network and amorphous structure. Hence, there are still great challenges in the preparation of strong and elastic hydrogels with superior lubrication performance for broader applications. Inspired by the biphasic structure of natural cartilage, the tough layered P(AM‐AA)‐Fe3+ (poly(acrylamide‐co‐acrylic acid)‐Fe3+) hydrogels are prepared via a sodium citrate treatment‐induced surface dissociation approach. The top lubricating layer with porous structure and high water content can achieve ultra‐low friction (friction coefficient [COF] ~ 0.010 at 5 N load), whereas the bottom stiff layer with compact structure demonstrates excellent load‐bearing capacity. The layered structure could provide hydrogels with excellent physical functions such as high strength (~7.1 MPa), superior lubrication (COF ~ 0.018, 10 N), and wear resistance (COF < 0.05, 5 N, 18,000 cycles), thereby expanding the application of hydrogel in the field of bioinspired lubrication materials.
Resilient algorithm for distributed resource allocation under false data injection attacks
Authors: Chen Xingzhi , Cai Xin , Gao Bingpeng , Nan Xinyuan
Published: June 2024

For a first‐order nonlinear multi‐agent system who is subject to false data injection (FDI) attacks on agents' actuators and sensors, agents execute a distributed resource allocation algorithm according to the compromised control inputs and interactive information such that the multi‐agent system is unstable and agents' decisions deviate from the optimal resource allocation. At first, we analyze the robustness of the distributed resource allocation algorithm under the FDI attacks. Then, a resilient distributed algorithm is proposed to solve the distributed resource allocation problem by resisting the adverse effect of the attacks. In detail, the unknown nonlinear term and the false data injected in agents are considered as extended states that can be estimated by extended state observers. The estimation is used in the feedback control to suppress the effect of the FDI attacks. As a result, the designed resilient algorithm ensures that agents' decisions converge to the optimal allocation without requiring any information about the nature of the attacks. An example is given to illustrate the results.
Causal inference in the absence of positivity: The role of overlap weights
Authors: Matsouaka Roland A. , Zhou Yunji
Published: June 2024

How to analyze data when there is violation of the positivity assumption? Several possible solutions exist in the literature. In this paper, we consider propensity score (PS) methods that are commonly used in observational studies to assess causal treatment effects in the context where the positivity assumption is violated. We focus on and examine four specific alternative solutions to the inverse probability weighting (IPW) trimming and truncation: matching weight (MW), Shannon's entropy weight (EW), overlap weight (OW), and beta weight (BW) estimators.

We first specify their target population, the population of patients for whom clinical equipoise, that is, where we have sufficient PS overlap. Then, we establish the nexus among the different corresponding weights (and estimators); this allows us to highlight the shared properties and theoretical implications of these estimators. Finally, we introduce their augmented estimators that take advantage of estimating both the propensity score and outcome regression models to enhance the treatment effect estimators in terms of bias and efficiency. We also elucidate the role of the OW estimator as the flagship of all these methods that target the overlap population.

Our analytic results demonstrate that OW, MW, and EW are preferable to IPW and some cases of BW when there is a moderate or extreme (stochastic or structural) violation of the positivity assumption. We then evaluate, compare, and confirm the finite‐sample performance of the aforementioned estimators via Monte Carlo simulations. Finally, we illustrate these methods using two real‐world data examples marked by violations of the positivity assumption.
Insights on multi‐spectroscopic approaches for estimating the in vitro binding of favipiravir with adenine nucleotide
Authors: El Gammal Reem N. , Elmansi Heba , El‐Emam Ali A. , Belal Fathalla , Hammouda Mohammed E. A.
Published: June 2024

Favipiravir (FVP) is an oral antiviral drug approved in 2021 for the treatment of COVID‐19. It is a pyrazine derivative that can be integrated into anti‐viral RNA products to inhibit viral replication. While, adenine is a purine nucleobase that is found in deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) and ribonucleic acid (RNA) to generate genetic information. For the first time, the binding mechanism between FVP and adenine was determined using different techniques, including UV–visible spectrophotometry, spectrofluorimetry, synchronous fluorescence (SF) spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET), and metal ion complexation. The fluorescence spectra indicated that FVP is bound to adenine via Van der Waals forces and hydrogen bonding through a spontaneous binding process (ΔGο < 0). The quenching mechanism was found to be static. Various temperature settings were used to investigate thermodynamic characteristics, such as binding forces, binding constants, and the number of binding sites. The reaction parameters, including the enthalpy change (ΔHο) and entropy change (ΔSο), were calculated using Van't Hoff's equation. The findings demonstrated that the adenine‐FVP binding was endothermic. Furthermore, the results of the experiments revealed that some metal ions (K+, Ca+2, Co+2, Cu+2, and Al+3) might facilitate the binding interaction between FVP and adenine. Slight changes are observed in the FTIR spectra of adenine, indicating the binding interaction between adenine and FVP. This study may be useful in understanding the pharmacokinetic characteristics of FVP and how the drug binds to adenine to prevent any side effects.
Progressively worsening ptosis in a woman: A case report
Authors: Zhao Hongqing , Ren Yuan , Yang Zhanhua , Wang Yuanyuan , Zhang Junbo
Published: June 2024

Key Clinical Message

Filler injections into the upper eyelid may cause levator aponeurosis fibrosis and ptosis. This risk must be considered. When ptosis appears, treatment might be difficult. Understanding the upper eyelid anatomy and procedures is essential to prevent eyelid damage.

Ptosis is a prevalent condition in cosmetic surgery that occurs due to malfunction of the levator palpebrae superioris or insufficient Müller muscle action. It is characterized by the upper eyelid edge appearing lower than usual when seen at eye level. Ptosis may be categorized into congenital and acquired forms. The primary cause of congenital ptosis is attributed to abnormalities of the levator palpebrae superioris muscle or the motor nerve innervation that controls it. The condition arises from atypical development and malfunction of the oculomotor system. Acquired ptosis may be classified into many categories including traumatic, neurogenic, myogenic, senile, mechanical, and fake ptosis. Currently, there is little documentation of ptosis resulting from the degeneration of the aponeurosis of the muscle in the upper eyelid. We received a case of ptosis caused by fibrosis of the levator palpebrae superioris aponeurotic membrane. We used the technique of levator palpebrae superioris great advancement. The levator palpebrae superioris—Müller muscle was folded to create a stable composite construction via the levator palpebrae superioris high progress.
An exploration of cultural competence in career services with international students
Authors: Balin Elif , Liu Yangyang , Xu Xinrui , Scharinger Joana , Jackson Emily , Goldman Ellen Zold , Anderson Nicole M.
Published: June 2024

This study reports on career development professionals’ (CDPs) understanding and use of cultural competence in their work with international students. The Multicultural and Social Justice Counseling Competencies guided the study as a conceptual framework based on the literature on international student experiences. The research team used an exploratory qualitative design informed by the community‐based participatory and social justice research approaches. The study included two phases: a survey (n = 33) and semi‐structured interviews (n = 12). The survey results indicated limited familiarity with specific competency frameworks and informed the semi‐structured interviews. Five themes emerged: (1) Awareness of intersectionality and systems of oppression; (2) the need for a holistic approach to career services; (3) specific cultural competence skills; (4) systemic barriers for both international students and CDPs; and (5) the need for advocacy on behalf of and with international students. The findings are discussed with implications for CDPs, institutions, and systemic change.
Association between epidermal growth factor receptor–tyrosine kinase inhibitors and venous thromboembolism among older patients with advanced non–small cell lung cancer
Authors: Byun Joo‐Young , Aiyeolemi Ayobami , Qdaisat Aiham , Park Chanhyun
Published: June 2024

Background

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) risk is higher among patients with non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and specific subgroups, including the elderly, but little is known about the VTE risk of different generations of epidermal growth factor receptor–tyrosine kinase inhibitors (EGFR‐TKIs) and whether the risk differs by demographic characteristics. This study aims to compare the risk of VTE (deep venous thromboembolism [DVT]; pulmonary embolism [PE]) between a third‐generation EGFR‐TKI and first/second‐generation EGFR‐TKIs and stratify VTE risk by sex, age, and race/ethnicity in third‐generation EGFR‐TKI users.

Methods

Via the 2006–2019 Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results–Medicare database, this retrospective cohort study included older patients (aged ≥65 years) with advanced NSCLC who initiated on a third‐generation EGFR‐TKI (n = 493) and first/second‐generation EGFR‐TKIs (n = 1036). We estimated the hazard ratio (HR) and its 95% confidence interval (95% CI) with the Cox proportional hazards model.

Results

A third‐generation EGFR‐TKI had a significantly higher VTE risk than first/second‐generation EGFR‐TKIs (HR, 1.26 [95% CI, 1.01–1.57]; p = .037), with an elevated risk in males (HR, 2.16 [95% CI, 1.47–3.19]; p < .001), patients aged ≥75 years (HR, 1.38 [95% CI, 1.04–1.83]; p = .026), and non‐Hispanic Whites (HR, 1.46 [95% CI, 1.10–1.95]; p = .010). Males consistently showed a significantly higher risk of DVT (HR, 2.49 [95% CI, 1.29–4.80]; p = .007) and PE (HR, 2.00 [95% CI, 1.29–3.11]; p = .002). A significantly higher risk of DVT (HR, 1.54 [95% CI, 1.00–2.37]; p = .050) and PE (HR, 1.47 [95% CI, 1.06–2.05]; p = .021) was shown in patients aged ≥75 years and non‐Hispanic Whites, respectively. Among third‐generation EGFR‐TKI users, non‐Hispanic Whites had a significantly higher risk of VTE (HR, 2.04 [95% CI, 1.03–4.02]; p = .041) and PE (HR, 2.88 [95% CI, 1.24–6.70]; p = .014) than non‐Hispanic Asian/Pacific Islanders.

Conclusions

Close monitoring of VTE events in high‐risk patients is essential to promote early diagnosis and treatment.