bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Knowledge of Sexual and Reproductive Health among Adolescents in a Ghanaian Municipality: A Mixed-Method Approach
Authors: Botchwey Charles Owusu-Aduomi , Acquah Francis , Opoku Richmond , Afful Boateng Agartha , Baidoo Michael Afari
Published: February 2022

Introduction: Sexual and Reproductive Health (SRH) is an essential aspect of the physical, mental, social, and emotional well-being of adolescents who are generally known to be the most vulnerable group in this aspect of health.

Aim: This study was designed to explore the sexual and reproductive health knowledge of adolescents in the Central Region of Ghana with Komenda as the case study.

Methodology: A mixed method with a case study design was adopted through quantitative survey and focus group discussions among 95 adolescents in the Komenda community.

Results and Discussion: The study revealed that most respondents had an idea about what SRH is all about, what contraceptives are with condom being known by all of the study respondents but were not willing to use contraceptives during sex. Most respondents also knew of STDs including HIV and their mode of transmission even though a significant number of the respondents (for example, 34% of survey respondents) were also found to hold misconception that STDs can be transmitted through witchcraft. The school was found to be the most source of SRH information for the respondents and place they will prefer to learn about SRH. Who to best discuss SRH issues with was found to depend on the type of SRH issue to be shared even though parents followed by peers and health professionals were found to be the entities survey respondents generally would prefer to share SRH issues with.

Conclusion: This study revealed that even though respondents had knowledge on SRH, most of them held some misconceptions about SRH which is likely to affect their understanding and tolerance of the topic. This can lead to poor SRH outcomes such as high prevalence of HIV/AIDS. There is therefore the need for effective education among adolescents in the study community by the Ghana Health Service and relevant stakeholders. Moreover, the school should be used as an important vessel for educating adolescents on SRH issues.
Fracture Orientation Significance in the Study of Pb-Zn Mineralization of Lower Benue Trough, Abakaliki Se Nigeria
Authors: Obarezi Jacob E. , Oden Michael I. , Ephraim Bassey E.
Published: February 2022

The Lower Benue Trough, in South-eastern Nigeria, hosts several lead-zinc deposits. The mineralization is frequently hosted by Cretaceous black shales that appear to have undergone low grade metamorphism, and subordinate sandstones. Most parts of the deposits have been epigenetically formed, and occur as blocky shaped, discordant veins, fracture, and possibly open-space fillings, of hydrothermal origin. For this reason, structural evaluation constitutes an important criterion for the investigation of the mineralization. In particular, the orientation of fractures occurring at the Pb-Zn deposits can be useful in the differentiation of the relative ages of the mineral vein deposits. A total of one thousand, one hundred and forty-seven fractures around mineralized zones, at the study localities, were measured and analysed. Results indicate that the vein deposits are structurally controlled, have four main orientations, and most likely formed by crack-seal process. The most prominent fracture sets show NW-SE, NNE-SSW to N-S orientations, while the less prominent ones are displayed in the NE-SW and ESE-WNW directions. The NW-SE, NNE-SSW to N-S fracture sets is interpreted as ‘ac’ extension fractures from two different deformation episodes that affected the trough, while the NE-SW, ESE-WNW to E-W sets is the two ‘bc’ tensile fractures, respectively parallel to the axes of F1 and F2 folds which occur in the trough. Small variations of the NNE-SSW and ESE-WNW brought about the occurrences of N-S and E-W sets respectively. Indication are that the two deformation episodes affected the trough: the first episode produce the NE-SW (F1) fold axes, while the second less intensity episode produce the ESE-WNW (F2) folds. The most dominant mineral vein trends in the study area are the NW-SE and NNE-SSW to N-S orientations, in which mineral veins are loaded in the ‘ac’ extension fractures. The less dominant mineral vein trends are the NE-SW and ESE-WNW orientations, which are in the ‘bc’ tensile fractures. At the NW-SE trend, vein minerals mainly occur along 150-160o from N, although it ranges from 135-175o from N. Vein width up to 7.0m can be obtained from both the NW-SE and NNE-SSW directions. The Lower Cretaceous sediments appear to be characterized by the NW-SE (major) and NE-SW (minor) sets of veins, while the upper Cretaceous sequence is most likely characterized by the NNE-SSW (major) and ESE-WNW (minor) vein sets. The widest Pb-Zn vein in the study area is 11.5m wide, located in the Enyigba axes sub-area and trends in the NE-SW direction with evidence of slickensides which indicates faulting.
Diabetes Mellitus and Periodontitis: Bidirectional Relationship
Authors: Rekha U. Vidhya , Govindaraj Jayamathi , Govindaraj Keerthidaa , Bhuminathan S.
Published: February 2022

Type 2 diabetes mellitus and chronic periodontitis hold a close relationship that has been the focus of many researches. Periodontitis is a common chronic inflammatory disease characterised by destruction of the supporting structures of the teeth. Evidences stated that diabetes is a major risk factor for periodontitis; susceptibility to periodontitis is increased by approximately threefold in people with diabetes. There is a clear relationship between degree of hyperglycaemia and severity of periodontitis. The mechanisms that underpin the links between these two conditions are not completely understood, but involve aspects of immune functioning, neutrophil activity, and cytokine biology. There is emerging evidence to support the existence of a two-way relationship between diabetes and periodontitis, with diabetes increasing the risk for periodontitis, and periodontal inflammation negatively affecting glycaemic control. Oral and periodontal health should be promoted as integral components of diabetes management.
‘Menstruation Awareness Activities’ for Improving the Knowledge, Awareness and Practices Regarding Menstrual Hygiene among Adolescent Girls: A Study Protocol
Authors: Jhadi Neha , Dakhode Sarika , Choudhari Sonali , Gaidhane Abhay
Published: February 2022

Background: Menstruation is a normal physiological process that indicates the start of reproductive life. But sometimes it’s considered as an impure phenomenon within the Indian society thanks to cultural taboos and insufficient and half-truths and causes unnecessary restrictions within the day to day normal activities of the menstruating girls. During a girl's life cycle, it is recognized as a special time that requires special consideration. During the life of a woman, Menarche may be a crucial biological milestone because it marks the beginning of her life's reproductive process. Usually, the average age at menarche is consistent across cultures, that is, between the ages of 12 and 13. Unfortunately, for women it gets worse because of lack of menstrual preparedness and management skills or because of shyness and embarrassment. This study aims to assess the knowledge and practices of menstrual hygiene management among adolescent girls from rural region of Wardha district.

Methods:  This will be a randomized controlled trial that will be conducted in adopted villages of field practice area of Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Wardha. Quantitative data will be collected using a self-administered semi-structured questionnaire. Qualitative data will be collected through focused group discussions (FGD). Pre and post intervention data will be collected and analyzed using SPSS, Appropriate tables and graphs will be prepared, and inferences will be drawn using the Chi-square test and t-test.

Results: Significant improvement in knowledge, awareness and practices of maintaining menstrual hygiene among adolescent girls in Wardha district.

Conclusion: Proper training and awareness can improve menstrual hygiene related practices in rural areas and assist in improving environmental health as well.
Phytochemistry and Antimicrobial Activities of Crude and Diluted Leaves and Roots Extracts of Uvaria chamae on Selected Bacteria
Authors: Ochiabut Ogochukwu Mary-Theodora Barbara , Unaeze Bright Chukwuebuka , Chukwura Edna Ifeoma , Uzoewulu Ngozichukwu Gertrude
Published: February 2022

Plant metabolites are antibacterial. Antibacterial properties of aqueous, methanolic and n-hexane extracts of crude and diluted leaves and roots extracts of Uvaria chamae were studied to demonstrate its potential as achemotherapeutic agent. Test organisms include: Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Bacillus subtilis, Salmonella typhi and Proteus vulgaris. Fresh tender leaves and roots of Uvaria charmae were collected, air- dried, grounded and soaked in methanol, n-hexane and aqueous solvents. Phytochemistry was done using standard procedures, antimicrobial activity was determined using agar-well diffusion method (punch hole) and MIC determined. Qualitative phytochemical analysis confirmed the presence of alkaloids, tannins, terpernoids, glycosides, saponins and flavonoids. Antimicrobial analysis of the plant parts using disc-diffusion method showed ten (10mg/ml) MIC concentration for aqueous extract of the leaves showed no activity, while root decoction inhibited only Salmonella typhi (14.00+0.47mm). Methanolic crude extracts of the leaves (UMLc) (400µg) exhibited antibacterial effects on all tested organisms, higher for Pseudomonas aeruginosa (23.67+ 0.27mm) than gentamycin(10µg) control (21.33+ 0.72) mm, while its 10-1 (40mg) dilution was active against Bacillus subtilis, Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Only crude n-hexane leaf extract (UNLc) was active for Pseudomonas aeruginosa (13.00 + 0.47mm). Crude methanolic extract of the roots UMRc(400µg) was active against all tested bacteria and clearance for Proteus vulgaris (23.33±0.54mm) was greater than that in both controls (ciprofloxacin (5 µg) (22.33±0.72 mm) and (gentamycin 10µg) (16.67±0.72mm).UNRchad activity against S. aureus, B. subtilis and P. aeruginosa(25.00  0.47 mm, 22.00  mm, and 12.67  0.27mm), while its 10-¹ dilution (40mg) had effects on Bacillus subtilis and Staphylococcus aureus (11.00  0.82mm, 13  0.47mm) only. The 10-2 (4µg) dilutions of (UMR and UNR) had no activity. Comparison of inhibition size between UML (20.33+ 0.27mm) and UMR (23.33+ 0.54mm)against Proteus vulgaris was significantly greater than inhibition size of gentamycin(10µg) (16.67+ 0.72) p<0.05.Activity of UML against Pseudomonas aeruginosa(23.67+ 0.27mm) was comparable to both ciprofloxacin (25.33+ 1.15mm) and gentamycin (21.33+ 0.72mm) p>0.05.Aqueous extracts of Uvaria chamae roots could be modified and harnessed for eradicating Salmonella typhi, UMLc and UMR for Proteus vulgaris and UML for Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Uvaria chamae crude and diluted extracts of both parts are potential future antibiotics.
Implication of Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate for an Effective Management in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Panneerselvam Nithya , Shanmugam Hemanthkumar
Published: February 2022

Introduction: Diabetic patients are at early risk of developing deterioration in renal function. The pharmacokinetics of antidiabetic drugs may get altered depending on the Glomerular filtration rate.

Aim: The aim is to study the estimated glomerular filtration rate eGFR appropriateness in the management of type 2 DM.

Materials and Methods: The study was conducted in the private diabetic care centre, Chennai. Serum urea, Serum creatinine, GFR and routine blood glucose investigations were measured for all the participants. Based on the report, the therapeutic modalities were analyzed for their nephroprotection. Descriptive statistics was used & values were expressed in numbers and percentage.

Results: Out of 148 patients, 87 diabetic patients were selected based on inclusion criteria. In which 55% were males & 45% females. Diabetes was observed to be highest 58.62% in the age group 40-59 years followed by 22.99% in 20-39 years and 18.39% in ≥60 years. 66 patients had creatinine level ≤1.1 and 21 patients had increased serum creatinine (>1.1). From the 87 study participants, 24 patient’s treatment regimens were modified based on eGFR and HbA1C.

Conclusion: Rationality in the management could be improved by including eGFR values in addition to glucose levels and HbA1C for type 2 diabetes mellitus.
The Inhibitory Effect of the Combination Treatment of Rifampicin and D-limonene on the Growth and Biofilm Formation of Staphylococcus epidermidis RP62A
Authors: Yeung-Cheung Anna K. , Alakrah Wardah , Orellana Eymi N. , Drew Olivia C. , Commisso Cristina M.
Published: February 2022

Aims: To discover an alternative chemical that could potentially be used in combination with antibiotics to inhibit the growth of Staphylococcus epidermidis RP62A.

Study Design: The studies of the growth inhibition in both the biofilm forming strain of S. epidermidis RP62A and the wild-type strain ATCC 12228, were conducted with different concentrations of rifampicin and D-limonene using the measurement of the optical density.

Place and Duration of Study: All experiments were conducted in the Department of Biology at Manhattanville College between September 2015 and December 2019.

Methodology: Different concentrations of rifampicin (0.0025 µg/mL, 0.005 µg/mL, 0.01 µg/mL and 0.02 µg/mL) and D-limonene (152.8 µg/mL, 305.6 µg/mL, 611.2 µg/mL and 1222.4 µg/mL) were used in the study. The minimal inhibitory concentrations (MIC) of rifampicin and D-limonene on RP62A and ATCC 12228 were obtained. The combination of rifampicin and D-limonene on the inhibition of the growth of RP62A and ATCC 12228 was conducted using a microtiter plate by measuring optical density. The alamarBlue® assay was further used to evaluate the viability of RP62A and ATCC 12228 with the combination treatment. The biofilm assay was then conducted on RP62A with the combination treatment of rifampicin and D-limonene.

Results: The MIC of the combination treatment of rifampicin and D-limonene on RP62A was found to be 0.01 µg/mL and 1222.4 µg/mL respectively. A combination treatment of 0.005 µg/mL of rifampicin with 611.2 µg/mL of D-limonene significantly inhibited the growth and biofilm formation of RP62A than the same concentration of rifampicin.

Conclusion: The addition of the D-limonene to the rifampicin was found to be effective in inhibiting the growth and biofilm formation of RP62A. This indicates that the combination of alternative mineral oil may have the potential to lower the antibiotic concentration in the inhibition of the growth of the bacteria S. epidermidis.
Efficacy Analysis of Corneal Crosslinking (CXL): Comparing Epi-on and Epi-off Procedures
Authors: Lin Jui-Teng
Published: February 2022

Purpose: To analyze the factors influencing the corneal crosslinking (CXL) efficacy and comparison of epi-on and epi-off procedures.

Study Design: modeling the efficacy of epi-off and epi-on CXL.

Place and Duration of Study: New Taipei City, Taiwan, between November, 2021 and December, 2021.

Methodology: Solving the rate equations for the CXL efficacy which includes the roles of concentration of the photosensitizer, riboflavin (RF), RF depletion effects, dynamic of light intensity, and the non-uniform distribution of RF in the stroma, or the diffusion depth of RF. Both steady-state and transient state features are explored for the efficacy, crosslink depth (CD) and the effects of epithelium layer for the epi-on situation.

Results: The steady-state efficacy is proportional to the square-root of [RF-concentration] /[light-intensity], The competing factors of reduced RF, F(z), and reduced light intensity in the stroma determine the relative efficacy of epi-on and epi-off. For example, for F(z)<0.5, epi-on is more efficient than epi-off. In contrast, in the transient state (with efficacy <0.6), the efficacy is proportional to the light dose, and therefore epi-on is always less efficient than epi-off. The crosslink depth (CD) has an inverse trend, such that higher light intensity and lower RF concentration lead to deeper CD. The analytic formulas are developed under simplified conditions, in which numerical simulation is required for non-uniform distribution, and when RF depletion are included. Various strategies for improved steady-state efficacy efficacy and crosslink depth for epi-on CXL are explored including the use of higher RF concentration and lower light intensity; enhancing the RF diffusion by an electrode device, or diffusion enhancing medicine. The analytic formulas are compared with measured data.

Conclusion: For the steady-state epi-on is more efficient than epi-off, when the RF reduction factor is less than the light intensity gain factor. In contrast, in the transient state (with efficacy <0.6), the efficacy is proportional to the light dose, and therefore epi-on is always less efficient than epi-off.
Comparison for Detection Methods of VITK 2 Identification and Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing of Gram-Negative Bacteria Clinical Isolated from Blood Culture
Authors: Al-ahmadey Ziab Z. , M. Aljohani Ahmed , Al-ahmadi Sultan S.
Published: February 2022

Background: Thousands of people die each year as a result of bloodstream infections. The fast and exact identification of the causative bacteria that cause these illnesses allows for precise treatment care, which improves the patient's prognosis. In an attempt to shortening the time for microbial identification devices have been developed, including the automated or manual antimicrobial susceptibility testing in clinical laboratories. The aim of this study was to evaluate the accuracy of the Vitek 2 system in the identification and their susceptibility against six classes of antibiotics.

Methods: Based on conventional identification of the isolated was carried out by Gram staining and parallel culture on blood agar, chocolate agar and MacConkey agar, as well as on one drop blood test of Vitek 2 identification and antimicrobial susceptibility testing. The isolates included Enterobacteriaceae, Acinetobacter baumannii and selected species of non-fermenters.

Results: A total of 36 isolates were recovered from 36 blood cultures, 80% of the isolates were multiple resistant to three antimicrobial agents and more. Resistance to imipenem and meropenem, yet resistance to amikacin was observed in 60% of isolates. The mean time for detection of Gram-negative direct samples less than Statistical analysis, showed significant difference with Klebsiella pneumoniae (P=0.014). The finding of this study highlights the emerging trends of Acinetobacter baumannii and Klebsiella pneumoniae as potential drug resistant pathogen in hospital setting in Saudi Arabia.

Conclusions: The results of the present study show that the indirect method is high accuracy with short times, and especially when Gram-negative bacteria and determine bacterial identification from positive blood culture without cost expenditure and additional time.
Prospective cohort study of workers diagnosed with COVID-19 and subsequent unemployment
Authors:   CORoNaWork project, Nagata Tomohisa , Nagata Masako , Hino Ayako , Tateishi Seiichiro , Ogami Akira , Tsuji Mayumi , Matsuda Shinya , Fujino Yoshihisa , Mori Koji
Published: February 2022

Objectives

The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationships of workers being diagnosed with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) and being identified as close contacts of infected persons with unemployment in Japan.

Methods

This was a prospective cohort study using questionnaires about COVID-19 administered to Japanese workers. A baseline survey conducted on December 22–25, 2020, was used to determine history of being diagnosed with COVID-19 or being identified as a close contact of an infected person. Unemployment since the baseline survey was ascertained with a follow-up survey on February 18 and 19, 2021. The odds ratios (ORs) of unemployment were estimated using a multilevel logistic model with adjusted covariates nested in prefecture of residence.

Results

Women (n = 8771) accounted for 44% of the total sample (n = 19 941), and the mean age was 48.0 years. In terms of unemployment because of negative reasons, the multivariate analysis showed that the OR of unemployment associated with being diagnosed with COVID-19 was 2.40 (95% CI: 1.15–5.01) and that the OR associated with being identified as a close contact was 0.98 (95% CI: 0.31–3.11).

Conclusions

There is an association between workers being diagnosed with COVID-19 and unemployment. The reason is not clear, but if the unemployment is unwanted by the individual, workplace adjustment may help prevent unwilling unemployment.
Assessment of sunlight exposure across industries and occupations using blood vitamin D as a biomarker
Authors: Koh Dong-Hee , Park Ju-Hyun , Lee Sang-Gil , Kim Hwan-Cheol , Jung Hyejung , Kim Inah , Choi Sangjun , Park Donguk
Published: February 2022

Objective

Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from sunlight induces the production of essential vitamin D, whereas overexposure to sunlight leads to skin cancer. Sunlight exposure has been measured using questionnaires, dosimeters, and vitamin D levels. Several studies have measured vitamin D in the working population; however, these studies were limited to certain occupations such as farmers and construction workers. In the present study, we evaluated sunlight exposure using blood vitamin D as an exposure surrogate across industries and occupations.

Methods

The Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (KNHANES) is a nationwide study representing the Korean population. We analyzed data from KNHANES between 2008 and 2009. We examined the association between vitamin D levels and pertinent personal, seasonal, residential, and occupational factors. Furthermore, we developed a multiple regression model with factors other than occupational factors (industry and occupation) and obtained residual values. We computed the third quartile (Q3) of the residuals and then calculated the fractions exceeding the Q3 level for each combination of industry and occupation.

Results

Age, sex, body mass index, year, season, latitude, living area, living in an apartment, industry, and occupation were significantly associated with vitamin D levels. Based on the exceeding fraction, the armed forces showed the highest exceeding fraction level of 0.71.

Conclusions

Our results present the high exposure groups to sunlight across industries and occupations. Our results may provide a source for prioritizing occupational groups with a high risk of adverse health effects from sunlight exposure.
Comparative structural analysis provides new insights into the function of R2‐like ligand‐binding oxidase
Authors: Diamanti Riccardo , Srinivas Vivek , Johansson Annika I. , Nordström Anders , Griese Julia J. , Lebrette Hugo , Högbom Martin
Published: February 2022

R2‐like ligand‐binding oxidase (R2lox) is a ferritin‐like protein that harbours a heterodinuclear manganese–iron active site. Although R2lox function is yet to be established, the enzyme binds a fatty acid ligand coordinating the metal centre and catalyses the formation of a tyrosine–valine ether cross‐link in the protein scaffold upon O2 activation. Here, we characterized the ligands copurified with R2lox by mass spectrometry‐based metabolomics. Moreover, we present the crystal structures of two new homologs of R2lox, from Saccharopolyspora erythraea and Sulfolobus acidocaldarius, at 1.38 Å and 2.26 Å resolution, respectively, providing the highest resolution structure for R2lox, as well as new insights into putative mechanisms regulating the function of the enzyme.
An Oxygen‐Resistant and Self‐Eliminating Passivated Layer for Highly Stable Lithium Metal Batteries
Authors: Zhu Maogen , Fan Zhechen , Xu Kangli , Fang Yuting , Sun Wei , Zhu Yongchun
Published: February 2022

Lithium‐metal batteries show great promise as the next generation rechargeable batteries with high theoretical energy density. Unfortunately, Li metal anodes suffer from serious corrosion of the electrolyte and by‐products shuttled from cathode during cycling, such as O2 in Li‐O2 batteries. Here, an oxygen‐resistant and self‐eliminating passivated layer is fabricated through a Wurtz‐type reaction between Li metal and dichlorodimethylsilane (DCDMS). This passivated layer guarantees Li metal great stability with O2 and inhibits the dendritic growth by eliminating the unpredictable fresh Li dendrites in their infancy stage. In addition, this passivated layer is constructed of LiCl and Poly(dimethylsilylene) phases, which provide good Li+ transport, self‐eliminate the undesirable by‐products. The symmetric battery with this protective layer can achieve a stable Li plating/stripping with 500 h at O2 atmosphere. Consequently, the Li‐O2 battery can maintain a stable cycling with more than 200 times and the Li||NCM811 battery presents excellent cycling performance (300 cycles at 0.5 C) and rate capacity (130.3 mA h g−1 at 5 C). This work provides both material and method breakthroughs for the development of electrode protection, which promotes the practical application of silanes and its ramification in alkali metal batteries.
Near‐Net Shape Hot Isostatic Pressing: Microstructural Analysis and Hardness Evolution at a Steel–Nickel Alloy Interface
Authors: Yang Lebiao , Xie Yin , Ren Xiaona , Cai Chao , Xue Pengju , Shi Yusheng , Ge Changchun
Published: February 2022

For near‐net shape hot isostatic pressing (HIP) process, the interaction between capsules and consolidating powders at a high pressure and temperature leads to a strong interfacial element diffusion, which is harmful to the surface microstructure and mechanical properties of components. The effects of iron and carbon, in SS400 steel capsules, on the surface microstructure and mechanical properties of the FGH4096M superalloy during HIP are investigated. Results show that the interfacial difussion between the SS400 steel and FGH4096M is divided into three zones: ferrite‐martensite‐austenite mixture zone (≈32.3 µm), Fe‐rich Ni‐Fe‐based superalloy zone (≈27.5 µm), and Ni‐rich Ni‐Fe‐based superalloy zone (≈34.8 µm). The γ′ phase starts to be formed when the mass fraction of iron is below ≈27.2%. The γ′ morphology changes from fine sphere to cuboidal and butterfly‐like shapes as the mass fraction of iron is decreased successively. There is no obvious carbon diffusion around the interface due to a low carbon concentration in the capsule. The Vickers microhardness profile shows an increase, then a decrease, and eventually becomes stable at 425HV. Based on the above conclusions, an understanding of the Fe and C diffusion mechanism at the interface and its extension toward the FGH4096M side is achieved.
Interfacial Engineering with Aluminum Oxide toward an Improved Self‐Powered Narrowband Visible‐Light Photodetection in Lead Halide Perovskite CH3NH3PbBr3/p‐Si Heterojunctions
Authors: Shen Xuemin , Yang Shuaiheng , Chen Mingming , Su Jiayun , Cai Jing , Cheng Peiyu , Liu Yuan , Wang Quan , Cao Dawei
Published: February 2022

Semiconductor heterojunctions consisting of lead halide perovskite (LHP) and silicon materials are important candidates for the fabrication of self‐powered visible‐light photodetectors. However, the interface recombination caused by interface trap states greatly deteriorates the performance of self‐powered photodetection, but fortunately, it can be suppressed by interfacial engineering. In this work, self‐powered narrowband visible‐light photodetection is demonstrated in the LHP CH3NH3PbBr3/p‐Si heterojunctions. Notably, the self‐powered photodetection performance is greatly enhanced by introducing an atomic‐layer‐deposition‐grown amorphous Al2O3 thin interlayer. Electrical and optical properties measurements suggest that the Al2O3 thin interlayer effectively passivates (reduces) the heterojunction interface trap states. On this basis, the CH3NH3PbBr3/Al2O3/p‐Si heterojunctions exhibit a decreased dark current and increased photocurrent simultaneously compared to CH3NH3PbBr3/p‐Si heterojunctions. Finally, a responsivity as high as 0.39 A W−1 and detectivity as high as 8.45 × 1012 Jones under the bias voltage of 0 V are obtained, which are higher than most reported state‐of‐the‐art devices. The results reported in this work will provide valuable pathways for the fabrication of high‐performance self‐powered narrowband photodetectors based on LHP/Si heterojunctions.
TiO2/Carbon Nanosheets Derived from Delaminated Ti3C2‐MXenes as an Ultralong‐Lifespan Anode Material in Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Lee Dong Kyu , Ahn Chi Won , Lee Jae W.
Published: February 2022

TiO2–carbon nanosheets (TiO2‐C NS) with high electrical conductivity are synthesized by CO2 oxidation of Ti3C2 MXene. Importantly, the synthesized TiO2‐C NS (high TiO2 content of 98.45%) can be used without adding a conductive material to impart electrical conductivity. The electrochemical properties show good capacity reversibility at a current density of 2 A g−1 in coin‐type half‐cells. In particular, a prototype pouch cell of TiO2‐C NS//NCM523 also demonstrates that TiO2‐C NS as an anode material is a good match with commercial cathode materials for lithium‐ion batteries. The good electrochemical performance of TiO2‐C NS is attributed to the following factors: 1) the high surface area has abundant exposed active sites offering more Li+ insertion channels and short pathways of the Li+ and electrons; 2) TiO2‐C NS has structural stability and low volume expansion (<4%) during Li+ insertion and desertion; and 3) the nanostructure of TiO2‐C NS prevents restacking and agglomerating by the surface‐anchored TiO2 nanoparticles. The obtained results suggest that TiO2‐C NS, wherein TiO2 nanoparticles are densely and homogeneously loaded on both sides of the carbon sheets, are a promising anode material for lithium‐ion batteries.
Color‐Customizable, Stretchable, Self‐Healable and Degradable Ionic Gel for Variable Human‐Motion Detection via Strain, Pressure, and Torsion
Authors: Wang Peng , Li Guoxian , Yu Wei , Meng Chuizhou , Guo Shijie
Published: February 2022

Recently, flexible sensors have attracted great interest for their promising application in wearable electronics. However, previous mechanical sensors are typically limited to detecting one type of stimulus and monotonous in color, which are not able to meet the sensing nor fashion requirements by customers who will wear them in daily life. Herein, a flexible and stretchable sensor based on highly conductive ionic gel is developed. Different phosphor nanoparticles are uniformly embedded into gel to enable color‐customization and even self‐illumination depending on preference. The gel is also self‐healable after complete severance and degradable in hot water. The sensors can detect multiple mechanical deformation modes to allow for detections of strain, pressure, and torsion on a single device. Wearable sensing prototypes are demonstrated with attachment to different parts of human body to detect various human motions, including strain sensing for frowning and elbow/knee bending, pressure sensing for vocal cord vibrations and pulse at wrist, and torsion sensing for shoulder and forearm rotations, through an in‐house, wireless, real‐time signal transmission and process system. Considering its sensing capability toward different stimuli as well as superior physical properties, the developed color‐customizable and self‐illuminating ionic gel sensor would find its promising applications toward wearable sensing.
Influence of Polymer Interfacial Protective Layer Thickness on the Stability of Lithium‐Metal Batteries
Authors: Li Xiao Ying , Yang Guang , Xu Lin , Chen Zheng Jian
Published: February 2022

Protective layers formed of polymers with conjugated structures have been demonstrated to improve the cycling stability of lithium (Li)‐metal batteries by reducing Li dendrite growth. However, the influence of important film parameters, such as thickness and ionic conductivity, remains largely unexplored. The present work addresses this issue by investigating the influence of film thickness for electrochemically active polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) protective layers on the growth of Li dendrites and the long‐term cycling stability of Li‐metal batteries. The results demonstrate that the cycling stability of cells employing PMMA/Cu electrodes attains a maximum value at an optimal polymer film thickness of 93 nm. The results of detailed analysis indicate that the optimal PMMA layer thickness improves the cycling stability of Li‐metal batteries by eliminating the uneven electric fields on the surface of the Cu electrode leading to Li dendrite growth, and by reducing the interfacial impedance due to the formation of intramolecular cyclopentanedione during the discharge/charge cycling. Accordingly, the results provide effective guidance in the future design of polymer protective layers by demonstrating that film thickness is a key factor influencing the cycling stability of Li‐metal batteries.
Geometric Study of Polymer Embedded Micro Thermoelectric Cooler with Optimized Contact Resistance
Authors: Dutt Aditya S. , Deng Kangfa , Li Guodong , Pulumati Nithin B , Ramos David Alberto Lara , Barati Vida , Garcia Javier , Perez Nicolas , Nielsch Kornelius , Schierning Gabi , Reith Heiko
Published: February 2022

Micro‐thermoelectric devices (μTEDs) are used for bio‐medical applications, powering internet‐of‐things devices, and thermal management. For such applications, μTEDs need to have a robust packaging so that the devices can be brought in direct thermal contact with the target heat sink and source. The packaging technology developed for macroscopic modules needs improvement as it cannot be applied to μTEDs due to a large thermal resistance between the capping material and the device which deteriorates its performance. In this work, μTEDs with high net cooling temperature are fabricated by optimizing the contact resistance and device design combined with a novel packaging technique that is fully compatible with on‐chip integration. The simulations and experiments demonstrate that the additional thermal loss caused by the packaging leads to an only marginal decrease in the net cooling temperature. The devices achieve a high net cooling temperature of 10.8 K without packaging and 9.6 K with packaging at room temperature. The packaging only slightly increases the thermal response time of the devices, which also shows an extremely high reliability of over 85 million cooling cycles. This simple packaging technique together with robust device performance is a step toward wide‐spread application of μTEDs.
The Importance of Avoided Crossings in Understanding High Valley Degeneracy in Half‐Heusler Thermoelectric Semiconductors
Authors: Brod Madison K. , Anand Shashwat , Snyder G. Jeffrey
Published: February 2022

Half‐Heusler (hH) compounds are promising candidates for inexpensive, low‐toxicity thermoelectric materials. It is well known that engineering electronic bands with high valley degeneracy is an effective approach for enhancing the performance of thermoelectric materials, and there are several routes for achieving high valley degeneracy in hH systems. For instance, there are multiple locations in the first Brillouin zone where the valence band maximum can be found (at the Γ‐, L‐, or W‐point), and there are two competing low‐lying conduction bands at the X‐point, where the conduction band minimum is located. By converging the multiple valence band and conduction band extrema, the valley degeneracy, and hence, performance of these materials can be improved. Here, group theoretical and tight‐binding approaches, in addition to first‐principles density functional theory calculations, are used to study the chemical origins of various band extrema in both the n‐type and p‐type compounds, with particular focus on ZrNiSn and NbFeSb. Specifically, the importance of avoided crossings is explained. The results of this work can be used to better understand and develop design strategies for engineering better performing hH thermoelectrics.
Clarifying the Electro‐Chemo‐Mechanical Coupling in Li10SnP2S12 based All‐Solid‐State Batteries
Authors: Sun Fu , Wang Chao , Osenberg Markus , Dong Kang , Zhang Shu , Yang Chao , Wang Yantao , Hilger André , Zhang Jianjun , Dong Shanmu , Markötter Henning , Manke Ingo , Cui Guanglei
Published: February 2022

A fundamental clarification of the electro‐chemo‐mechanical coupling at the solid–solid electrode|electrolyte interface in all‐solid‐state batteries (ASSBs) is of crucial significance but has proven challenging. Herein, (synchrotron) X‐ray tomography, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), time‐of‐flight secondary‐ion mass spectrometry (TOF‐SIMS), and finite element analysis (FEA) modeling are jointly used to decouple the electro‐chemo‐mechanical coupling in Li10SnP2S12‐based ASSBs. Non‐destructive (synchrotron) X‐ray tomography results visually disclose unexpected mechanical deformation of the solid electrolyte and electrode as well as an unanticipated evolving behavior of the (electro)chemically generated interphase. The EIS and TOF‐SIMS probing results provide additional information that links the interphase/electrode properties to the overall battery performance. The modeling results complete the picture by providing the detailed distribution of the mechanical stress/strain and the potential/ionic flux within the electrolyte. Collectively, these results suggest that 1) the interfacial volume changes induced by the (electro)chemical reactions can trigger the mechanical deformation of the solid electrode and electrolyte; 2) the overall electrochemical process can accelerate the interfacial chemical reactions; 3) the reconfigured interfaces in turn influence the electric potential distribution as well as charge transportation within the SE. These fundamental discoveries that remain unreported until now significantly improve the understanding of the complicated electro‐chemo‐mechanical couplings in ASSBs.
Balancing the Molecular Aggregation and Vertical Phase Separation in the Polymer: Nonfullerene Blend Films Enables 13.09% Efficiency of Organic Solar Cells with Inkjet‐Printed Active Layer
Authors: Chen Xingze , Huang Rong , Han Yunfei , Zha Wusong , Fang Jin , Lin Jian , Luo Qun , Chen Zheng , Ma Chang‐Qi
Published: February 2022

Drop‐on demand inkjet‐printing (IJP) is a deposition technique with promise in the context of fabricating large‐area organic solar cells (OSCs) because of its high material usage, direct‐pattern, and large‐area roll‐to‐roll printing compatibility. But its feature of drop‐to‐drop deposition during IJP makes the film's drying and phase separation process different from spin‐coating, and forms different nanophase separation and vertical phase separation morphology. In this work, the nanophase separation of the inkjet‐printed organic blend films is systematically studied at different substrate temperatures. The results reveal that increasing the substrate temperature can suppress excess molecules aggregation owing to the high drying speed, leading to improved exciton dissociation efficiency in the blend films. However, the quick drying process at high temperature also leads to a homogenous vertical phase separation, which is not ideal for charge collection. Instead of printing the mixture of donor and acceptor solution directly to form the bulk‐heterojunction structure, the polymer donor is printed on the top of the acceptor surface, a so‐called layer‐by‐layer inkjet printing (LBL‐IJP) process. By using this LBL‐IJP route, balanced nanoscale phase aggregation and gradient vertical phase separation morphology are achieved, which leads to a record power conversion efficiency of 13.09% for the OSCs with an inkjet‐printed active layer.
Statistical machine‐learning–based predictive control of uncertain nonlinear processes
Authors: Wu Zhe , Alnajdi Aisha , Gu Quanquan , Christofides Panagiotis D.
Published: February 2022

In this study, we present machine‐learning–based predictive control schemes for nonlinear processes subject to disturbances, and establish closed‐loop system stability properties using statistical machine learning theory. Specifically, we derive a generalization error bound via Rademacher complexity method for the recurrent neural networks (RNN) that are developed to capture the dynamics of the nominal system. Then, the RNN models are incorporated in Lyapunov‐based model predictive controllers, under which we study closed‐loop stability properties for the nonlinear systems subject to two types of disturbances: bounded disturbances and stochastic disturbances with unbounded variation. A chemical reactor example is used to demonstrate the implementation and evaluate the performance of the proposed approach.
Simulation and optimization of the thermally coupled reactive distillation column for producing toluene diisocynate
Authors: Bi Rongshan , Yan Kejia , Yang Haixing , Tan Xinshun , Xiang Shuguang
Published: February 2022

Toluene diisocyanate is an important chemical intermediate prepared by phosgenation reaction with two steps named cold and thermal phosgenation, respectively. The thermal phosgenation reaction is a complex reactive distillation process with high energy consumption and multiple targets of reaction and separation, so it is of great significance to optimize the step. The reactive distillation model of the thermal phosgenation was established for an industrial installation by aspen plus, and the effects of the different parameters of temperatures, residence times, etc., were investigated firstly; then a thermally coupled reactive distillation column was presented to perform the thermal phosgenation process, and the optimal operation and configuration parameters were obtained by simulation. The results showed that the proposed process can save the heat and cold energy with 7.29% and 32.78%, respectively, and reduce the total annual cost by about 17.11%.
Is this the end of the Job Network model? The evolution and future of performance‐based contracting of employment services in Australia
Authors: Davidson Peter
Published: February 2022

Australia was the first OECD nation to privatise its public employment service, replacing it with the “Job Network model” of performance‐based contracting. A “New Employment Services Model” commences in July 2022 following a major review. To assess the prospects for systemic reform, we trace the model's development from 2007–2019 in response to changes of government and policy goals, tensions within the model and labour market conditions. One reason for the model's endurance is that it met the policy goal of successive governments to closely supervise job search at low cost. The Job Network was poorly suited to the policy shift under Labor governments (2007–2013) towards skills development, but they found it less fiscally and politically costly to layer new programs on top than transform the model. Its poor performance in reducing long‐term unemployment and declining take‐up by employers triggered the recent review, which recommended the transfer of those closest to employment to an online service, a licensing system, and less reliance on outcome payments. The review's proposals could lead to systemic change, but only if underpinned by a shift in policy goals from benefit compliance and cost containment towards greater agency for, and investment in, unemployed people.
Efficacy of awake prone positioning for severe illness coronavirus disease 2019 patients: a propensity score‐adjusted cohort study
Authors: Numata Kenji , Kobayashi Daiki , Hosoda Tomohiro , Saito Yutaka , Minoura Ayu , Yamazaki Satsuki , Fujitani Shigeki
Published: February 2022

Aim

Awake prone positioning (PP) in patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) can improve oxygenation. However, evidence showing that it can prevent intubation is lacking. This study investigated the efficacy of awake PP in patients with COVID‐19 who received remdesivir, dexamethasone, and anticoagulant therapy.

Methods

This was a two‐center cohort study. Patients admitted to the severe COVID‐19 patient unit were included. The primary outcome was the intubation rate and secondary outcome was length of stay in the severe COVID‐19 unit. After propensity score adjustment, we undertook multivariable regression to calculate the estimates of outcomes between patients who received awake PP and those who did not.

Results

Overall, 108 patients were included (54 [50.0%] patients each who did and did not undergo awake PP), of whom 25 (23.2%) were intubated (with awake PP, 5 [9.3%] vs. without awake PP, 20 [37.0%]; P < 0.01). The median length of stay in the severe COVID‐19 unit did not significantly differ (with awake PP, 5 days vs. without awake PP, 5.5 days; P = 0.68). After propensity score adjustment, those who received awake PP had a lower intubation rate than those who did not (odds ratio, 0.22; 95% confidence interval, 0.06–0.85; P = 0.03). Length of stay in the severe COVID‐19 patient unit did not differ significantly (adjusted percentage difference, −24.4%; 95% confidence interval, −56.3% to 30.8%; P = 0.32).

Conclusion

Awake PP could be correlated with intubation rate in patients with COVID‐19 who are receiving remdesivir, dexamethasone, and anticoagulant therapy.
GIPC1 CGG Repeat Expansion Is Associated with Movement Disorders
Authors: Fan Yu , Shen Si , Yang Jing , Yao Dabao , Li Mengjie , Mao Chengyuan , Wang Yunchao , Hao Xiaoyan , Ma Dongrui , Li Jiadi , Shi Jingjing , Guo Mengnan , Li Shuangjie , Yuan Yanpeng , Liu Fen , Yang Zhihua , Zhang Shuo , Hu Zhengwei , Fan Liyuan , Liu Han , Zhang Chan , Wang Yanlin , Wang Qingzhi , Zheng Hong , He Ying , Song Bo , Xu Yuming , Shi Changhe
Published: February 2022

Objective

CGG/GGC repeat expansion in FMR1 and NOTCH2NLC is reportedly associated with movement disorders; therefore, we hypothesized that the CGG repeat expansion in LRP12, NUTM2B‐AS1, and GIPC1, which was previously identified in myopathy, might also be associated with movement‐disorder phenotypes. Here, we investigated whether CGG repeat expansion in LRP12, NUTM2B‐AS1, and GIPC1 presents in a cohort of patients with movement disorders.

Methods

We screened for the CGG repeat expansion in LRP12, NUTM2B‐AS1, and GIPC1 in 1,346 movement‐disorder patients and 1,451 matched healthy controls.

Results

No patients or controls harbored expanded CGG repeats in LRP12 or NUTM2B‐AS1, whereas 16 patients harbored >40 CGG repeats in GIPC1, with 11 of these patients harboring >60 CGG repeats. One control individual harbored an expanded GIPC1 allele (83 CGG units), suggesting that approximately 1% of patients affected by movement disorders in our population might harbor GIPC1 CGG repeat expansion, with this likely extremely rare in healthy controls (<0.001). The clinical phenotypes of the GIPC1 CGG repeat‐positive patients strongly resembled those in patients displaying NOTCH2NLC GGC repeat‐positive movement disorders. Additionally, the GIPC1 CGG repeat‐positive patients presented white‐matter hyperintensities but without typical NOTCH2NLC‐related high‐intensity signals in the corticomedullary junction. Furthermore, 44% of the GIPC1 CGG repeat‐positive patients showed a cognitive deficit, and skin biopsies in 2 patients revealed deposition of intranuclear inclusions.

Interpretation

The CGG repeat expansion in GIPC1 might be associated with movement‐disorder phenotypes and lead to diseases related to intranuclear inclusions. ANN NEUROL 2022;91:704–715