bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mapeo de manglares utilizando cómputo en la nube y un índice espectral específico para apoyar acciones de manejo: un caso del Caribe Colombiano semiárido
Authors: Ruiz-Roldán Juan J. , Blanco-Libreros Juan F. , López-Rodríguez Sara R.
Published: December 2023

El mapeo de manglares es la base para la zonificación con fines de manejo sostenible a escala sub-nacional. Sin embargo, muchas autoridades ambientales no cuentan con cartografía actualizada de manglares y usualmente el presupuesto disponible para la validación de campo es limitado. El objetivo de este artículo fue estimar el desempeño del Índice de Vegetación de Manglar (IVM) para la actualización de la extensión del manglar en un área semi-árida del Caribe Sur. Se empleó el departamento de Sucre (Colombia) como ejemplo para la reconstrucción multi-temporal (2017-2021) basada en el IVM, imágenes Sentinel 2 y cómputo en Google Earth Engine. La validación de campo fue asistida con sobrevuelos de un vehículo aéreo no tripulado de bajo costo (DJI Phantom 3 Advanced) para observar áreas de difícil acceso en el interior de parches grandes. La extensión del manglar varió significativamente entre temporadas de lluvia y sequía, producto del cambio de verdor. Mediante la construcción de un mosaico multi-temporal se estimaron 8924 ha (coeficiente Kappa: 0.78), cubriendo todas las categorías de manejo. Comparaciones con estimaciones previas realizadas por esfuerzos globales y nacionales mostraron un alto grado de consistencia. Se concluyó que el método, pese a su simplicidad, es una alternativa rápida para actualizar las zonificaciones de manglares en regiones semiáridas de Colombia. Se discuten las ventajas y desventajas del método.
9ª Edición de la Escuela de verano de Ecología de Navarra – Jugando con la Ecología
Authors: Blanco Juan A.
Published: December 2023

9ª Edición de la Escuela de verano de Ecología de Navarra – Jugando con la Ecología
Manglares de las Américas
Authors: Cerón-Souza  , Puerta-Piñero Carolina , Blanco Juan A.
Published: December 2023

Monográfico sobre Manglares de las Américas
Association between Risk Factors and Occupational Hazards among Health Workers in Port Harcourt, Nigeria
Authors: Onosakponome Evelyn Orevaoghene , Lenox-Prince Tamunonengiye-Ofori , Ike Amalachukwu Okwukwe , Nyenke Clement Ugochukwu , Bruce Ibiso
Published: December 2023

Occupation is a labour routinely engaged in by individuals, often as a result of training, and for the purpose of making or earning a living. A hazard is something that could cause harm. The aim of this study was to study the association between risk factors and occupational hazards. A well-structured questionnaire was used for the collection of details from the respondents about their socio-demographic data, risk assessment data and hazard occurrence. The risk assessment data (risk factors) studied include: PPE provision, PPE usage, working at multiple facilities, working overtime, sleep adequacy, exercise, waste segregation, processing of biohazard specimen in closed chamber, disposal of biohazard according to set standard, and good work posture. These risk factors were studied based on physical, biological and chemical hazards. The result showed that out of 10 studied risk factors, only 8 had significant associations (p-values<0.5) with occupational hazards; working overtime, sleep adequacy were the two risk factors amongst the 8 that had significant association with all the studied occupational hazard (physical, biological and chemical hazards). PPE provision, working at multiple facilities, and waste segregation had significant association with two occupational hazards. While use of PPE, exercise and processing of specimen in closed chamber had significant associations with physical, biological and chemical hazards respectively. Disposing of biohazard according to set standard and good posture had no relationship (p-values>0.05) with occupational hazard. This study has shown occupational hazards may have varying or shared risk factors, therefore, care must be taken to ensure risk at work place is minimally reduced.
Staff Capacity and Management of Diabetic Patients at Mnazi Mmoja Hospital in the Urban District of Unguja, Zanzibar
Authors: Muki Sultan Khamis , Haroonah Nsubuga , Hemed Issa Moh’d
Published: December 2023

Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) stand as a formidable global public health challenge, casting a shadow over populations and contributing significantly to global mortality rates. Among the primary culprits in this health crisis are cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, chronic respiratory diseases, and cancer. This study zeroes in on a critical facet of this challenge - the staff capacity and management of diabetic patients at Mnazi Mmoja Hospital in the Urban District of Unguja, Zanzibar. The urgency of this research is accentuated by the staggering statistic that approximately 415 million people worldwide are grappling with diabetes, catapulting it into the forefront of global health emergencies in the twenty-first century. In response to this pressing need, 205 questionnaires were distributed among diabetes health workers at Mnazi Mmoja Hospital, creating a comprehensive foundation for analysis. Employing statistical techniques with SPSS version 26, the study sought to unravel the intricate landscape of staff knowledge and the challenges faced in managing diabetic patients.

The findings of the study paint a nuanced picture, revealing that 38.6% of the staff possessed specialized knowledge in managing diabetic patients, while 61.4% had general knowledge. Alarmingly, only 36.3% of diabetic health workers were available for the management of diabetic patients. The study sheds light on the multifaceted challenges faced by the staff, with issues related to equipment, drugs, support from relatives, psychotherapy treatment, and drug adherence and compliance all surfacing as significant concerns, reported by varying percentages. In the face of these challenges, the study underscores a compelling message: the critical importance of hospital management in recruiting staff with expertise in diabetic treatment and care. This strategic hiring approach is seen as a linchpin for ensuring the efficient and effective management of diabetic patients. Moreover, the study advocates for ensuring the availability of adequate equipment, medical supplies, and materials essential for investigating diabetes and its complications, such as diabetic foot, renal failure, and cardiovascular diseases. This comprehensive approach is deemed crucial for providing holistic care to patients grappling with the complexities of diabetes.
Trend Analysis of Seasonal Drought in Northern Karnataka, India
Authors: Singhal Neha , Khanna Manoj , Singh Man , Singh D. K. , Kumar S. Naresh , Sehgal Vinay Kumar
Published: December 2023

Trend analysis of climatic data is often carried out in water resources management studies to understand its distribution over a given region. This paper presents an analysis of trends in meteorological drought in 12 districts in the northern part of Karnataka state, India over the period 1991–2020. Trends in the 3-month timescale standardized precipitation index (SPI-3) were analyzed using the Mann-Kendall (MK) trend test and Sen’s slope estimator for the Kharif season. The results of analysis showed an increasing trend of droughts in four districts however, the trend in most of the districts was not statistically significant. The findings were validated with the trend of the declared area under drought (AUD) by the state government for the study area. The findings of this work might be useful for a better understanding of regional drought trends and also for establishing effective water resources management policies.
Predominance of K1 Allele in Erythrocytic form of Plasmodium falciparum MSP-1 Gene Signifies Severe Malaria in Jos, Nigeria
Authors: Lawal Abdulazeez , Kutshik Richard J. , Mankilik Mary M. , Yakubu Bitrus , Longdet Ishaya Y.
Published: December 2023

Aim: The study explored the diversity of Plasmodium falciparum Merozoite Surface Protein 1 (msp-1) gene sequence and delineated the K1 allele occurrence and profile. The Plasmodium falciparum msp-1 gene encodes an antigen that is being proposed as a major vaccine candidate against the parasite infections.

Study Design:  The design of the study was experimental.

Place and Duration of Study: The study was undertaken, between October 2018 and June 2019, in the Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Health Sciences, University of Jos, Nigeria.

Methodology: The DNA of Plasmodium falciparum was extracted from 117 blood samples of malaria patients confirmed by microscopy in three different hospitals in Jos. The msp-1 (block 2) allelic family’s genotyping was carried out using PCR and nested PCR techniques. Sequencing and Bioinformatics of the K1 alleles were done to further identify the K1 alleles.

Results: Out of the 117 DNA extracted, 13 samples were positive for Plasmodium falciparum and each was genotyped for msp-1. K1 was the most predominant allele (6/13) compared to MAD20 (4/13) and R033 (2/13). The allelic frequency of K1 was calculated to be 46.15%. The 225 bp Plasmodium falciparum K1 allele of the msp-1 gene studied displayed polymorphism. However, the sequence was very similar to those of Plasmodium falciparum already characterized.

Conclusion: Predominance of K1 allele is an indication that Jos is endemic to severe Plasmodium falciparum malaria.
Quality Breeding in Leafy Vegetables
Authors: Impa H. R.  , Yashavanta Kumar K. H.  , Javadgi Raveendra S. , Parmar Shipra Singh
Published: December 2023

Vegetables are commonly known as "protective foods" in the human diet owing to their quantity of vitamins, essential fatty acids, minerals, amino acids, and dietary fiber, as well as a range of critical bioactive compounds. These include health-promoting phenolic chemicals and secondary plant metabolites that are high in antioxidants. Greens are the best and most economical sources of protein. This is because of their ability to use the abundant amounts of nitrogen, sunlight, water, and oxygen in the environment to synthesize and accumulate amino acids. It has long been recognized that green leafy vegetables are a great source of dietary fiber. The WHO states that in order to effectively combat general malnutrition, it is now necessary to consider the micronutrient status of the diet. Breeding green vegetables with high nutritional content can help solve this problem.
Workplace Absenteeism for Medical Reasons in the Handling and Transport Company in Conakry: A Survey Study
Authors: Alhousseine Yansane , Tidjani Dalil K. A.  , El-Mouksitou Akinocho , Moussa Keita , Mamadou Bah , Camara Mohamed T.  , Ansoumane Mara , Hassane Bah
Published: December 2023

Introduction: Absences from work generate financial costs and reduce the productivity of the company. The objective was to study absences for medical reasons in the workplace, particularly in a company that carries out the activities of conventional handling by the continuous loading and unloading of any type of goods, the activities of berthing of containers, storage.

Material and Methods: This was a 2-year retrospective study of the files of workers absent for medical reasons. We had carried out a descriptive analysis of absences and an evaluation of the financial costs and the number of working days lost by the company.

Results: Fifty-five percent (55%) of the workers had had at least one absence with an average absenteeism rate of 1.58%/year. The average number of days of absence per worker was 12.85 days and the average number of stoppages was 2.25. The main medical reasons for stoppages were ordinary pathologies 66.27% of stoppages and surgical pathologies i.e. 22.34%. Multiple stops were statistically significant with gender (p=0.01), age (p=0.03) and seniority (p<0.001).

Conclusion: ordinary infectious or non-infectious diseases and surgical pathologies were the main medical reasons for absenteeism in this company. Furthermore, gender, age and seniority were closely related to multiple stops.
Shading and Planting Material Type Effects on Some Physiological and Biochemical Compounds Synthesis in Desmodium adscendens Plants Leaves in the Domestication Phase, Daloa, Côte d'Ivoire
Authors: Koffi Tahia Jean Yves , Gnamien Yah Gwladys , Kanga Ahou Nadia , Koffi Oussou Kouadio Mathieu , Allouko Jean-renaud , Koffi Kouame Mathurin , Ayolie Koutoua , Kouadio Yatty Justin
Published: December 2023

Desmodium adscendens (Sw.) is a plant of the Fabaceae Family, a wild medicinal plant frequently found in industrial plantations, where it is exposed to pesticide residues. This makes species unsuitable for use as a raw material in pharmaceutical industry. To this end, domestication is one of best ways of cleaning up the species. During this process, the evaluation of a few physiological and biochemical compounds would be an indicator for the choice of planting material and the ecology species. Two types of plant material (seeds and stem) grown under three types of shade (accentuated, moderate, no shade) were tested. The leaves of various 90-day-old plants were used to determine physiological and biochemical parameters various. Results showed that chlorophyll a, carotenoids, polyphenols, total sugars, protein, proline and the activities of tyrosine ammonia-lyase, polyphenol oxidase and catalase were higher in leaves with moderate and no shading. However, under heavy shading, chlorophyll b content, phenylalanine ammonia lyase (PAL) and peroxidase enzyme activities were higher. Whatever shading type, the chl (a) content remained lower than that of chl (b). Also, total sugars, proline, ascorbate peroxidase and catalase were more abundant in the leaves of plants grown from stem. In contrast, phenolics, proteins and PPO are more abundant in leaves of seedlings.
Divergent Attitudes Toward COVID-19 Vaccine vs Influenza Vaccine
Authors: SteelFisher Gillian K. , Findling Mary G. , Caporello Hannah L. , McGowan Ericka , Espino Laura , Sutton Jazmyne
Published: December 2023

This survey study examines attitudes toward COVID-19 and influenza vaccines among US adults.
Definition and Diagnostic Criteria for Pediatric Blepharokeratoconjunctivitis
Authors: Morales-Mancillas Nallely R. , Velazquez-Valenzuela Fabiola , Kinoshita Shigeru , Suzuki Tomo , Dahlmann-Noor Annegret H. , Dart John K. G. , Hingorani Melanie , Ali Asim , Fung Simon , Akova Yonca A. , Doan Serge , Gupta Noopur , Hammersmith Kristin M. , Tan Donald T. H. , Paez-Garza J. Homar , Rodriguez-Garcia Alejandro
Published: December 2023

Importance

Pediatric blepharokeratoconjunctivitis (PBKC) is a chronic, sight-threatening inflammatory ocular surface disease. Due to the lack of unified terminology and diagnostic criteria, nonspecific symptoms and signs, and the challenge of differentiation from similar ocular surface disorders, PBKC may be frequently unrecognized or diagnosed late.

Objective

To establish a consensus on the nomenclature, definition, and diagnostic criteria of PBKC.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This quality improvement study used expert panel and agreement applying the non-RAND modified Delphi method and open discussions to identify unified nomenclature, definition, and definitive diagnostic criteria for PBKC. The study was conducted between September 1, 2021, and August 14, 2022. Consensus activities were carried out through electronic surveys via email and online virtual meetings.

Results

Of 16 expert international panelists (pediatric ophthalmologists or cornea and external diseases specialists) chosen by specific inclusion criteria, including their contribution to scientific leadership and research in PBKC, 14 (87.5%) participated in the consensus. The name proposed was “pediatric blepharokeratoconjunctivitis,” and the agreed-on definition was “Pediatric blepharokeratoconjunctivitis is a frequently underdiagnosed, sight-threatening, chronic, and recurrent inflammatory eyelid margin disease associated with ocular surface involvement affecting children and adolescents. Its clinical spectrum includes chronic blepharitis, meibomitis, conjunctivitis, and corneal involvement ranging from superficial punctate keratitis to corneal infiltrates with vascularization and scarring.” The diagnostic criteria included 1 or more suggestive symptoms accompanied by clinical signs from 3 anatomical regions: the eyelid margin, conjunctiva, and cornea. For PBKC suspect, the same criteria were included except for corneal involvement.

Conclusions and Relevance

The agreements on the name, definition, and proposed diagnostic criteria of PBKC may help ophthalmologists avoid diagnostic confusion and recognize the disease early to establish adequate therapy and avoid sight-threatening complications. The diagnostic criteria rely on published evidence, analysis of simulated clinical cases, and the expert panel’s clinical experience, requiring further validation with real patient data analysis.
Early Weight-Bearing After Fibula Free Flap Surgery
Authors: Kim Minjee , Wu Michael P. , Miller Lauren E. , Meyer Charles D. , Feng Allen L. , Varvares Mark A. , Deschler Daniel G. , Lin Derrick T. , Richmon Jeremy D.
Published: December 2023

Importance

Despite the widespread use of fibula free flap (FFF) surgery for head and neck reconstruction, there are no studies assessing if early weight-bearing (EWB) affects postoperative recovery, and the timing of weight-bearing initiation following FFF surgery varies considerably across institutions. Therefore, it is important to understand the effect of EWB in these patients and whether it could improve postoperative recovery.

Objective

To assess the association of EWB after FFF surgery with donor-site complications, length of stay, and discharge to home status.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This retrospective cohort study took place at Massachusetts Eye and Ear, a single tertiary care institution in Boston, Massachusetts. A total of 152 patients who received head and neck reconstruction with a fibula osteocutaneous free flap between January 11, 2010, and August 11, 2022, were included.

Exposure

EWB on postoperative day 1 vs non-EWB on postoperative day 2 or later.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Patient characteristics, including demographic characteristics and comorbidities, surgical characteristics, donor-site complications, length of stay, and discharge disposition, were recorded. Descriptive statistics and multivariate logistic regressions were used to compute effect sizes and 95% CIs to compare postoperative outcomes in EWB and non-EWB groups.

Results

A total of 152 patients (median [IQR] age, 63 [55-70] years; 89 [58.6%] male) were included. The median (IQR) time to postoperative weight-bearing was 3 (1-5) days. Among all patients, 14 (9.2%) had donor-site complications. EWB on postoperative day 1 was associated with shorter length of stay (adjusted odds ratio [AOR], 0.10; 95% CI, 0.02-0.60), increased rate of discharge to home (AOR, 7.43; 95% CI, 2.23-24.80), and decreased donor-site complications (AOR, 0.11; 95% CI, 0.01-0.94). Conversely, weight-bearing 3 or more days postoperatively was associated with an increased risk of pneumonia (AOR, 6.82; 95% CI, 1.33-34.99).

Conclusions and Relevance

In this cohort study, EWB after FFF surgery was associated with shorter length of stay, increased rate of discharge to home, and decreased donor-site complications. These findings support the role of early mobilization to optimize postoperative recovery after FFF surgery.
Comprehensive Insight into Construction of Active Sites toward Steering Photocatalytic CO2 Conversion
Authors: Gao Wa , Chi Haoqing , Xiong Yujie , Ye Jinhua , Zou Zhigang , Zhou Yong
Published: December 2023

Photoreduction of CO2 into hydrocarbon fuels is a promising avenue for achieving a sustainable alternative to the artificial carbon cycle. Photocatalytic CO2 conversion is the chemical transformation of photogenerated carriers and adsorbed CO2 at active sites of catalysts. Active sites can regulate the kinetic process of carriers, control the adsorption of CO2 and intermediates, lower activation barriers, and promote C‐C coupling. This review mainly concentrates on the efficiency and selectivity regulation of the target products through construction of active sites. First, the principles of CO2 photoreduction, such as the influencing factors and specific pathways for monocarbon and multicarbon (C2+) formation, are discussed. Then, leading works focusing on improving catalytic efficiency and regulating product selectivity through the introduction of active sites are highlighted, concerning the underlying mechanism of the performance, especially for C2+ generation. Subsequently, an overview of the currently available in situ techniques and theoretical calculation for identifying the active sites are provided. Finally, the challenges of emerging strategies to achieve carbon recycling from scientific, technical, and economic perspectives are considered. This review offers deep insight into the construction of active site with atomic precision to achieve efficient photocatalytic CO2 conversion and the generation of C2+ in high selectivity.
Understanding the Role of Lithium Borate as the Surface Coating on High Voltage Single Crystal LiNi0.5Mn1.5O4
Authors: Park Na Ri , Li Yixuan , Yao Weiliang , Zhang Minghao , Han Bing , Mejia Carlos , Sayahpour Baharak , Shimizu Ryosuke , Bhamwala Bhargav , Dang Bryant , Kumakura Shinichi , Li Weikang , Meng Ying Shirley
Published: December 2023

The high‐voltage spinel lithium nickel manganese oxide (LNMO) with an operating voltage of 4.8 V is a promising cathode material for next‐generation lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs). However, LNMO/graphite (LNMO/Gr) full cells suffer capacity fading, which limits their practical applications. In this study, lithium metaborate (LBO) is applied on the LNMO surface to improve the full cell performance via a dry mixing method. The LBO‐coated LNMO delivers much better cycling stability than the uncoated LNMO in full cells with a practical 3 mAh cm−2 areal capacity. Different characterizations are performed to understand the coating effect to track the boron and its impact on the cathode, electrolyte, and anode. The LBO‐coated LNMO owns a 5 nm cathode electrolyte interphase (CEI) with mitigated phase change after long‐term cycling. The uncoated LNMO has negligible CEI with obvious phase change. However, no boron can be detected on the surface of the coated sample. Electrolyte and anode analyses indicate that the coating acts as an additive reservoir, gradually dissolves into the electrolyte, and generates BF4− species. As a result, Nickel/Manganese (Ni/Mn) dissolution from LNMO and the extensive generation of solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) on the anode side is mitigated, thus improving the full‐cell cycling stability to a great extent.
Surface Modification of 3D‐Printed Micro‐ and Macro‐Structures via In Situ Nitroxide‐Mediated Radical Photopolymerization
Authors: Wu Xingyu , Leuschel Benjamin , Nam Nguyen Hoai , Guillaneuf Yohann , Gigmes Didier , Clément Jean‐Louis , Spangenberg Arnaud
Published: December 2023

Photo‐controlled reversible‐deactivation radical polymerization (RDRP) has recently emerged in light‐based 3D printing at macro‐ and micro‐scales, enabling the elaboration of objects with (re‐)configurable surface properties. The authors' previous work exploits nitroxide‐mediated radical photopolymerization (NMP2) in 3D micro‐printing and subsequent surface modification, by employing analkoxyamine‐based photoresist via 3D direct laser writing (DLW). However, this photoresist suffers from its low photosensitivity to wavelengths above 760 nm, limiting its suitability for commercial 3D DLW setups. To tackle these issues, a new strategy—in situ NMP2 based on a photoresist containing acommercial photoinitiator and a photosensitive‐nitroneis proposed. This photoresist is well‐suited for wavelengths commonly used by 3D DLW systems to obtain well‐defined 3D microstructures. Importantly, the in‐situ formation of alkoxyamine during fabrication allows photo‐induced surface modification of microstructures, highlighted by precise and successive surface patterning. Thesurface modification can be conducted at 800 nm or at wavelengths up to 860 nm. Subsequently, the impact of light wavelength and intensity isinvestigated to understand surface modification. The simple preparation of this novel photoresist allows facile adaptation to digital light processing for 3D macro‐printing. This work broadens the scope of photo‐controlled RDRP in 3D printing and greatly facilitates “living” 3D micro‐ and macro‐printing.
Rough‐Endoplasmic‐Reticulum‐Like Hierarchical Composite Structures for Efficient Mechanical‐Electromagnetic Wave‐Energy Attenuation
Authors: Yu Silin , Guo Weiqiang , Zhou Zhiling , Li Yong , Qiu Jun
Published: December 2023

Inspired by a critical organelle called rough endoplasmic reticulum (RER), a wave‐energy attenuation nano‐carbon foam (WANF) with a unique hierarchical composite structure consisting of 3D‐lamelle, 2D‐perforations and 1D‐microspheres is constructed by incorporating graphene oxide (GO) and polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) into a carbon nanotubes (CNTs)‐based aerogel. Benefiting by unusual mechanisms like vortex shedding, secondary reflection and resonance, WANF displays excellent acoustic wave absorption, achieving a sound absorption coefficient of over 0.9 with a bandwidth of 4.75 kHz at a thickness of 20 mm. Significantly, it features obvious acoustic absorption intensity in medium‐low frequency range. Moreover, the nano‐carbon aerogel skeleton (NCAS) of WANF endows it with good electromagnetic wave absorption through dielectric loss, exhibiting a minimum reflection loss of −48.61 dB and an efficient electromagnetic absorption with a bandwidth of 5.35 GHz. The excellent wave‐energy attenuation performance of WANF indicates an attracting double‐stealth effect in sonic and electromagnetic area, which shows great potential in integrate protection of advanced military equipment and sensitive electronic infrastructures.
Dual‐Interfacial Electrocatalyst Enriching Surface Bonded H for Energy‐Efficient CO2‐to‐CH3OH Conversion
Authors: Li Yi , Zhang Hong , Chen Tao , Sun Ye , Rosei Federico , Yu Miao
Published: December 2023

Energy cost is a long‐neglected but crucial issue for electrocatalytic carbon dioxide reduction reactions (CO2RRs). So far, achieving efficient CO2RR at a low energy cost is a major unresolved challenge. Herein, energy‐efficient CO2‐to‐CH3OH conversion by synergistically increasing the amount of favorable intermediates and depressing H2 generation is reported. The designed precursor electrocatalyst undergoes in situ reduction, forming Cu−C60 and ZnO−Cu dual interfaces. Cu−C60 induces an *H‐rich surface, decreasing the hydrogenation barrier and lowering the required voltage. *H‐modified ZnO‐Cu alters the mechanism of electron transfer and improves the conversion selectivity. As a result, at an applied potential as low as −0.63 V versus a reversible hydrogen electrode, a cathodic energy efficiency of 50.5% and a faradaic efficiency of 78.3% for CH3OH is obtained. This work unlocks an unconventional route for improving the catalytic performance and energy efficiency of electrocatalysts, addressing the concern of energy costs for electrocatalyzed CO2RR.
A Universal MOF‐Confined Strategy to Synthesize Atomically Dispersed Metal Electrocatalysts Toward Fast Redox Conversion in Lithium‐Sulfur Batteries
Authors: He Songjie , Yang Juan , Liu Siyu , Wang Xiaoting , Qiu Jieshan
Published: December 2023

Accelerating catalytic conversion of lithium polysulfides (LiPSs) is a promising way to address the shuttle effect of lithium‐sulfur (Li‐S) batteries but remains a challenge to date. Herein, a universal metal‐organic framework (MOF)‐confined strategy is proposed to fabricate atomically dispersed metal catalysts (ADMCs) with the help of ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) toward fast redox conversion in Li‐S batteries. In the synthesis, the EDTA acts as not only the coupling agent for the chemical bonding with unsaturated sites of MOF but also the chelating agent for metal ion capture and further confining them into MOF. As a proof of concept, the ADMCs made of transition metal sites anchored on MOF‐808 (named MOF‐808‐M, M = Fe, Co, Ni, Cu, Zn, etc.) are obtained, with well‐defined M‐N2O2 configurations. The in‐depth experiments and theoretical calculations reveal that the atomically dispersed M‐N2O2 sites are capable of enhancing the chemical affinity of MOF‐808‐M toward LiPSs and further accelerating their redox conversion by reducing the energy barrier of the rate‐limiting step. As a result, the assembled Li‐S batteries with S@MOF‐808‐M cathode, represented by S@MOF‐808‐Zn exhibit a high reversible specific capacity of 1192 mAh g−1 at 0.1 C, excellent rate capability of 599 mAh g−1 at 2 C, and remarkable long‐term cycling stability with a capacity retention rate of 94.6% after 300 cycles at 1 C. Moreover, the high areal capacity of 4.79 mAh cm−2 at 0.2 C with a sulfur loading of 5.14 mg cm−2 for S@MOF‐808‐M cathode can be achieved. This work presents a universal strategy to fabricate ADMCs with well‐defined active centers by combining the advantages of MOF for Li‐S batteries.
Enhancing Deep‐Seated Melanoma Therapy through Wearable Self‐Powered Microneedle Patch
Authors: Wang Chenyuan , He Guangqin , Zhao Huanhuan , Lu Yun , Jiang Peng , Li Wei
Published: December 2023

Effective treatment of deep‐seated tumors relies on enhanced drug penetration in transdermal drug delivery systems. While microneedles (MNs) and iontophoresis techniques have shown improved transdermal drug delivery efficiency, challenges such as skin elasticity, high electrical resistance of the stratum corneum, and external power supply requirements hinder their efficacy in treating deep‐seated tumors. In this study, a wearable, self‐powered MN patch that integrates a flexible triboelectric nanogenerator (F‐TENG) is presented, aimed at advancing deep‐seated tumor therapy. MNs are composed of water‐soluble materials mixed with negatively charged pH‐responsive nanoparticles (NPs) loaded with therapeutic drugs. The F‐TENG harnesses personal mechanical movements generate electrical energy. Leveraging the advantages of both MNs and F‐TENG, therapeutic NPs can penetrate deep skin locations upon MN patch insertion, releasing drugs rapidly in acidic tumor tissues. Owing to these features, a single administration of the integrated MN‐patch in a mouse model with deep‐seated melanoma exhibits superior therapeutic efficacy in inhibiting deep‐located tumor compared to using the MN‐patch alone, indicating promising potential for treating tumors at deep sites.
Flexible Fiber Sensors for Monitoring Multi‐point and Distributed Stress and Strain
Authors: Yang Xiao , Shen Yanan , Wang Zhe , Zhao Haibo , Wang Chunyang , Wang Shun , Chen Haisheng , Zheng Xinghua , Zhang Ting
Published: December 2023

Intelligent sensor devices are widely used in the fields of aerospace, automobile, biomedicine, and electronics. However, using traditional bulk sensors, it is challenging to meet the needs of health monitoring, human‐computer interaction, environmental monitoring, and wearable portable electronic devices because of the limitations of flexibility and wearability. Novel flexible sensors should be characterized with stretchable, bendable, breathability, and distributed sensing properties. Herein, a flexible multi‐functional fiber sensor for stress and strain monitoring is prepared using thermal drawing technology. The as‐developed sensor is used for real‐time monitoring of small stress and strain with an accuracy of 1 g (1.7 kPa), positioning spatial resolution of 2 cm, and a strain range of 30 000 µɛ with an accuracy of 86 µɛ. It can sense single‐ and multi‐points weak pressure at the same time during keyboard testing. Furthermore, pulse and breath monitoring are also demonstrated. These results reveal the high sensitivity, lightweight, and good flexibility of this multi‐functional fiber sensor, promoting its applications in fields such as biosensing, aircrafts, and intelligent robot.
Respiration‐Triggered Release of Cinnamaldehyde from a Biomolecular Schiff Base Composite for Preservation of Perishable Food
Authors: Liu Fei , Kuai Lingyun , Lin Chen , Chen Maoshen , Chen Xing , Zhong Fang , Wang Tao
Published: December 2023

One‐third of the food produced worldwide is wasted annually and never consumed, of which ≈ 40–50% are perishable vegetables and fruits (VFs). Although various methods are proposed to reduce this loss, high manufacturing costs and food safety concerns pose significant challenges for the preservation of VFs. Herein, a respiration‐triggered, self‐saving strategy for the preservation of perishable products based on a biomolecular Schiff base composite fabricated by imidization of chitosan and cinnamaldehyde (CS‐Cin) is reported. Ripening of VFs produces acid moisture and triggers a Schiff base reaction in CS‐Cin, permitting the release of volatile Cin into the storage space. This enables versatile preservation by placing CS‐Cin on the side without the need to touch the food, like the desiccant packet in a food packaging bag, while the rotting of VFs is retarded in a self‐saving manner. As a result, the lifetimes of broccoli and strawberries are extended from 2 to 8 days. Furthermore, CS‐Cin with restored preservative properties can be repeatedly recycled from used CS via imidization with Cin. Compared with conventional techniques, the preservatives are easy to use, versatile, and cost‐effective, and the respiration‐responsive release of Cin empowers a self‐saving approach toward the smart preservation of perishable food.
Joint Efforts of Replicative Helicase and SSB Ensure Inherent Replicative Tolerance of G‐Quadruplex
Authors: Guo Lijuan , Bao Yanling , Zhao Yilin , Ren Zhiyun , Bi Lulu , Zhang Xia , Liu Cong , Hou Xi‐Miao , Wang Michelle D. , Sun Bo
Published: December 2023

G‐quadruplex (G4) is a four‐stranded noncanonical DNA structure that has long been recognized as a potential hindrance to DNA replication. However, how replisomes effectively deal with G4s to avoid replication failure is still obscure. Here, using single‐molecule and ensemble approaches, the consequence of the collision between bacteriophage T7 replisome and an intramolecular G4 located on either the leading or lagging strand is examined. It is found that the adjacent fork junctions induced by G4 formation incur the binding of T7 DNA polymerase (DNAP). In addition to G4, these inactive DNAPs present insuperable obstacles, impeding the progression of DNA synthesis. Nevertheless, T7 helicase can dismantle them and resolve lagging‐strand G4s, paving the way for the advancement of the replication fork. Moreover, with the assistance of the single‐stranded DNA binding protein (SSB) gp2.5, T7 helicase is also capable of maintaining a leading‐strand G4 structure in an unfolded state, allowing for a fraction of T7 DNAPs to synthesize through without collapse. These findings broaden the functional repertoire of a replicative helicase and underscore the inherent G4 tolerance of a replisome.
Offense‐Defense‐Balanced Strategy Escorting Tellurium Oxidation Conversion towards Energetic and Long‐Life Zn Batteries
Authors: Qi Jintu , Tang Yongchao , Feng Zhenfeng , Yan Jianping , Liu Guigui , Ye Minghui , Du Wencheng , Yang Qi , Wei Yue , Zhang Yufei , Wen Zhipeng , Liu Xiaoqing , Li Cheng Chao
Published: December 2023

Among six‐electron Te conversion for energetic aqueous Zn batteries, the main capacity contributor, Te0/Te4+ redox usually causes substantial battery capacity/life discount due to its sluggish kinetics/poor reversibility. Herein, for the first time, an offense‐defense‐balanced strategy to simultaneously address the deficiencies is reported. Beyond previous proton‐ or reductant‐regulated solutions, this strategy efficaciously reconciles the pending capacity‐lifespan conflict. As a proof of concept, additive‐level nucleophilic chlorine ions (Cl−) and reductive glucose (Glu) in electrolytes are synergistically employed as “offensiver” and “defender” for Te0/Te4+ conversion, respectively. The Cl−/Glu co‐additive well inherits the nucleophilic motivation effect of Cl− on Te0/Te4+ conversion, and eliminates the formation of Cl−‐induced diffluent metastable phase (γ‐TeO2), enabling a deep and highly reversible Te0/Te4+ redox. Compared with co‐additive‐free electrolytes, the activation energy for Te conversion is lowered (61.4 vs. 52.8 kJ mol−1), and the shuttle of active materials is effectively inhibited. Consequently, Zn‖Te batteries deliver a volumetric capacity of approximately theoretical value (2409 mAh cm−3) at 0.2 A g−1, and a 15∼30‐fold longer lifespan than those in conventional electrolytes (over 5000 cycles with a decay of only 0.15‰ per cycle at 4 A g−1). This work opens a new avenue to develop other chalcogen conversion‐based aqueous Zn batteries.
Scalable In‐Plane Directional Crystallization for The Printable Hole‐Conductor‐Free Perovskite Solar Cell Based on The Carbon Electrode
Authors: Cheng Yanjie , Zheng Ziwei , Liu Shuang , Xiang Junwei , Han Chuanzhou , Xia Minghao , Zhang Guodong , Qi Jianhang , Ma Yongming , Chen Kai , Tao Yiran , Lu Xinhui , Mei Anyi , Han Hongwei
Published: December 2023

Popular solution‐processed approaches for producing the active layer of perovskite solar cells (PSCs) generally have to make compromise between crystallinity and compactness by inducing a rapid crystallization process with explosive nucleation and limited growth via removing solvent quickly. Here, a practical growth‐dominated in‐plane directional crystallization technique (IPDC) with a deeply retarded crystallization process for the scalable preparation of PSCs are reported. During the low‐temperature annealing, a tiny chamber with a small height is built atop the wet perovskite precursor film to restrain the vertical diffusion and removal of solvent vapor. The chamber eliminates the vertical solvent vapor gradient and induce a horizonal in‐plane gradient of solvent vapor pressure (SVP) toward the preset exhaust port which allows the slow escape of solvent vapor to outer space. In this way, nucleation is induced preferentially near the port and the as‐formed heterogeneous nuclei then grow continuously and directionally. With IPDC, sufficient filling of perovskite with high crystallinity and obvious growth orientation is realized in non‐ordered mesoporous scaffolds. An encouraging power conversion efficiency of 19.35% and 16.53% is achieved respectively for the 0.1 and 52.3‐cm2 printable mesoscopic hole‐conductor‐free PSCs with carbon electrodes.
Prevention, incidence, and risk factors of chyle leak after radical nephrectomy and thrombectomy
Authors: Chen Kewei , Liu Zhuo , Li Yuxuan , Zhao Xun , Wang Guoliang , Tian Xiaojun , Zhang Hongxian , Ma Lulin , Zhang Shudong
Published: December 2023

Background

To define the incidence and risk factors of chyle leak (CL) after radical nephrectomy and thrombectomy and to determine the impact of chyle leak on oncological outcomes.

Patients and Methods

A total of 445 patients who underwent radical nephrectomy and thrombectomy between January 2014 and January 2023 were included. CL is defined as the drainage of chyle with a triglyceride level greater than 110 mg/dL after oral intake or enteral nutrition. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to identify the risk factors of postoperative (CL). The Kaplan–Meier curves were used to compare overall survival and cancer‐specific survival.

Results

44 patients (9.9%) were diagnosed as (CL). All patients developed CL within 6 days after the operation with a median time of 3 days. In multivariate logistic regression analysis, Mayo grade and side were independent patient‐related risk factors. In addition, operation approach, operation time, and number of lymph nodes harvested were independent surgery‐related risk factors. Between the CL group and the non‐CL group, neither overall survival nor cancer‐specific survival showed statistical differences.

Conclusion

Based on this retrospective study of renal cell carcinoma and tumor thrombus patients in our center, we found that the risk factors were Mayo grade, side, operation approach, operation time, and number of lymph nodes harvested, and the occurrence of CL significantly prolonged hospital stay, but had no effect on long‐term oncological outcomes.
Career decision‐making difficulties among career‐decided college students
Authors: Arbona Consuelo , Fan Weihua , de Dios Marcel A. , Olvera Norma
Published: December 2023

The procedures developed by Gati and colleagues to interpret scores in the Career Decision Difficulties Questionnaire were implemented to examine difficulties’ profiles among self‐identified decided college students who reported being either comfortable or uncomfortable with their career choice. Of the 583 participants, 92.5% were career decided and 7.5% were undecided. Close to half (47.2%) of the career‐decided students self‐identified as uncomfortable with their career choice and reported similar career decision‐making difficulties as their undecided peers. The most salient difficulties among decided uncomfortable students were general indecisiveness and lack of knowledge regarding occupations and the decision‐making process. Greater difficulties related to lack of knowledge about oneself, and internal conflicts predicted membership in the decided uncomfortable group versus the decided comfortable group. Results indicated that career‐decided students are not a homogenous group. Implications of the findings for career counseling with decided uncomfortable college students are discussed.
Counseling trainees' experiences working with Afghan refugees: Building cultural humility
Authors: Cabell Autumn , Burgess Deanna , Brown Eric , Medina Carlos
Published: December 2023

Using a thematic analysis, we examined the reflections of N = 14 counselors‐in‐training (CIT) who co‐led groups with Afghan refugees. Five themes related to cultural humility emerged from the data. Implications for counselor educators leading community engaged programs that build cultural humility are discussed.
Reconstruction error‐based fault detection of time series process data using generative adversarial auto‐encoders
Authors: Rani Jyoti , Goswami Umang , Kodamana Hariprasad , Tamboli Prakash Kumar
Published: December 2023

Faults in time series process data are typically difficult to detect due to the complex temporal correlations of data samples. In this context, traditional unsupervised machine learning algorithms, such as principal component analysis, independent component analysis, and so forth, would yield only limited performance. Deep learning‐based methods have been employed in recent years to address these problems. Recently, generative adversarial networks have emerged as a promising generative modelling approach for learning data distributions. Inspired by the above, in this study, we present a novel reconstruction error‐based fault detection method for time series process data using generative adversarial auto‐encoder (GAAE) with Wasserstein loss, cycle consistency loss, and gradient penalty methods. The proposed method is designed to detect abnormal patterns in the time series data by training a GAAE to learn the underlying normal behaviour of the data. GAAEs help in effectively capturing the data's hidden distribution, and Wasserstein loss with gradient penalty is used to improve the accuracy of the latent space representation of the data, while the cycle consistency loss ensures consistency between the input and output data during the reconstruction process. Based on the extent of the reconstruction error metric of the GAAEs, we identify the potential faults in the process data stream. The proposed method is evaluated on two data process sets, namely, the Tennessee Eastman benchmark process dataset and the nuclear power flux real‐time dataset from a pressurized heavy water nuclear reactor, to validate the efficacy of the proposed approach.
Challenging the concept of “risk of malignancy” in cytology
Authors: Nikas Ilias P. , Souza da Silva Ricella , Sousa‐Pinto Bernardo , Schmitt Fernando
Published: December 2023

Several standardized systems for nongynecological cytopathology have been published following the successful implementation of The Bethesda System for Reporting Cervical Cytology. Each of these systems comprises a set of reporting categories accompanied by a risk of malignancy. However, in most cases, these risk of malignancy estimates have not been based on high‐quality evidence and often may not be consider proper “risks” (because they have been estimated based on cross‐sectional studies). This commentary discusses the problems related to the data used to generate these risks. To make nongynecological cytopathology reporting more evidence‐based, large‐scale prospective cohort studies and randomized trials, in addition to high‐quality systematic reviews and meta‐analyses, should be performed.
Approximate Gibbsian structure in strongly correlated point fields and generalized Gaussian zero ensembles
Authors: Gangopadhyay Ujan , Ghosh Subhroshekhar , Tan Kin Aun
Published: December 2023

Gibbsian structure in random point fields has been a classical tool for studying their spatial properties. However, exact Gibbs property is available only in a relatively limited class of models, and it does not adequately address many random fields with a strongly dependent spatial structure. In this work, we provide a very general framework for approximate Gibbsian structure for strongly correlated random point fields, including those with a highly singular spatial structure. These include processes that exhibit strong spatial rigidity, in particular, a certain one‐parameter family of analytic Gaussian zero point fields, namely the ‐GAFs, that are known to demonstrate a wide range of such spatial behavior. Our framework entails conditions that may be verified via finite particle approximations to the process, a phenomenon that we call an approximate Gibbs property. We show that these enable one to compare the spatial conditional measures in the infinite volume limit with Gibbs‐type densities supported on appropriate singular manifolds, a phenomenon we refer to as a generalized Gibbs property. Our work provides a general mechanism to rigorously understand the limiting behavior of spatial conditioning in strongly correlated point processes with growing system size. We demonstrate the scope and versatility of our approach by showing that a generalized Gibbs property holds with a logarithmic pair potential for the ‐GAFs for any value of . In this vein, we settle in the affirmative an open question regarding the existence of point processes with any specified level of rigidity. In particular, for the ‐GAF zero process, we establish the level of rigidity to be exactly , a fortiori demonstrating the phenomenon of spatial tolerance subject to the local conservation of moments. For such processes involving complex, many‐body interactions, our results imply that the local behavior of the random points still exhibits 2D Coulomb‐type repulsion in the short range. Our techniques can be leveraged to estimate the relative energies of configurations under local perturbations, with possible implications for dynamics and stochastic geometry on strongly correlated random point fields.