bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Outcome of Limberg Flap Reconstruction in the Management of Pilonidal Sinus Disease: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Pradeep S , Kalaivani V , Pujar K Anupama , Korrapati Bhavyadeep
Published: November 2023

Introduction: Pilonidal Sinus Disease (PSD) is a tract or cavity commonly seen in the sacrococcygeal region, usually containing a tuft of hair. It is mostly observed in drivers who have excessive hair in the natal cleft region. Although several surgical procedures have been described for the management of PSD, none have been universally accepted as the gold standard. Limberg flap reconstruction, following wide excision, offers a tension-free repair using a well-vascularised flap. This technique flattens the natal cleft, avoiding a midline scar and reducing the chance of recurrence. Aim: The aim of this study was to determine the outcomes of Limberg flap reconstruction in sacrococcygeal PSD. Materials and Methods: A retrospective descriptive study was conducted in the Department of General Surgery at M S Ramaiah Medical College, Bangalore, Karnataka, India. The study duration was six years, from January 2011 to January 2017. The study included a total of 40 patients aged between 15-70 years, with Tezel type III sacrococcygeal Pilonidal Disease (PND), who underwent the Limberg flap procedure. Data was collected and analysed from January to June 2021. Outcome measures such as duration of hospital stay, time required to return to work, and procedure-related complications associated with procedure were analysed and entered into an Excel sheet. Results: The mean age of the study participants was 18.02±6.87 years. Out of the 40 patients, 4 (10%) developed complications. Superficial wound infection was observed in 1 (2.5%) patient, which healed within two weeks. Minimal flap necrosis was observed in 2 (5%) patients, who underwent debridement and dressings on an outpatient basis. The wounds healed within three to four weeks. Recurrence was reported in 1 (2.5%) patient. The mean time to return to work was 18.7±4.88 days. Conclusion: Limberg flap reconstruction for sacrococcygeal PSD is a simple technique with a lower complication rate, faster return to normal activity, and a low recurrence rate.
Minimally Invasive Procedure for Haemorrhoids: A Retrospective Observational Study
Authors: Nagula Mounish Raj , Rohatgi Yash , Joshi Abhijit
Published: November 2023

Introduction: The Minimally Invasive Procedure for Haemorrhoids (MIPH), also known as Stapled Haemorrhoidopexy (SH), has gained significant recognition and praise within the surgical community due to its speed and minimal postoperative pain. It was initially believed to have superior postoperative outcomes, resulting in reduced morbidity and mortality rates compared to traditional procedures. However, long-term follow-up data has now revealed previously undocumented sequelae and complications associated with SH. Aim: To share authors’ experience with SH, including patient demographics, operative details, recurrence rates, and postoperative complications, in a tertiary corporate teaching hospital. Materials and Methods: The present retrospective observational study was conducted at the Department of General Surgery and Advanced Laparoscopic Surgery, Dr. LH Hiranandani Hospital, Powai, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India. The study utilised data from the outcomes of SH performed by a single surgeon for Grade II and III haemorrhoids over a 15-year period, from December 2007 to December 2022. Data was extracted from the hospital’s Electronic Medical Records (EMR) and supplemented with information obtained through a telephonic questionnaire. A standard, prevalidated, semi-structured case record proforma was used for data collection. The parameters under study included donut completeness, haemorrhage, faecal urgency, urinary retention, anal stenosis, postoperative pain scores, return to work, and recurrence. Proportions, percentages, and means were calculated and reported for different groups. Results: A total of 245 patients were enrolled in the study. The average pain score at 12 hours postoperatively was 4, which decreased to 2 by day 10. Recurrent disease was observed in 16 patients (6%) at three months and in 24 patients (10%) at six months. Conclusion: The SH demonstrated advantages over conventional open surgery by causing significantly lower postoperative morbidity. However, its recurrence rates were slightly higher.
Evaluation of the Effectiveness of Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy in Supine and Prone Positions: A Prospective Interventional Study from Telangana, India
Authors: Kumar J Sasi , Reddy Y Anil , Ramamurthy N , Soitkar Sagar Mahavir , Reddy Ch Vamseedhar , Sharma Rahul , Mydam Nishanth , Addepalli Jagdishwar
Published: November 2023

Introduction: Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy (PCNL) is the preferred method for treating large or complex renal calculi. Despite positive results and apparent benefits over the prone position, there are few randomised trials comparing the supine and prone positions. Aim: To evaluate the effectiveness of PCNL in prone and supine positions in terms of operative time, stone-free rate, hospital stay, postoperative complications, and the level of haemoglobin drop. Materials and Methods: The study was conducted from December 2020 to December 2022, at the Department of Urology, Mamata Medical College in Khammam, Telangana, India. Patients with renal stones diagnosed by Non-Contrast Computed Tomography (NCCT) Kidney Ureter Bladder (KUB) and meeting the inclusion criteria were enrolled. Patient demographic data, operative time, stone-free rate, haemoglobin level drop, postoperative fever, and hospital stay in prone and supine positions were recorded. Statistical tests like chi-square or Fisher-exact test were used to compare proportions, and the student t-test was used to compare means. Results: The overall operative time was 79.50 minutes in the prone group and 66.78 minutes in the supine group (p=0.0213). The average hospital stay was 2.68 days in the prone group and 2.72 days in the supine group (p=0.2432). Fall in haemoglobin levels, size of stones extracted, and stone-free rate at three months between the two groups (p>0.05) showed insignificant relation. Furthermore, there was no significant difference in complications between the two groups (p>0.05). Conclusion: PCNL performed with the patient in the supine position requires significantly less time during surgery. There was no significant difference in terms of stone-free rate, hospital stay, fall in haemoglobin levels, and complications between the supine and prone groups.
Variability in the Position of the Tip of Appendix: A Cross-sectional Analytical Study in South Indian Population
Authors: Induchoodan PS , Seena MM , Prasad JS Ajith , Sreepriya K , Yadev IP , Chisthi M Meer
Published: November 2023

Introduction: The fact remains that there are still some ambiguities in our understanding of the locations of the vermiform appendix. Understanding the changes in the position of the vermiform appendix is significant because, in cases of appendicitis, its varying locations may result in varying symptoms and warning indications that mirror those of other illnesses. Aim: To determine any difference between the surgical and anatomical assessment of the position of the appendix. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in the Departments of General Surgery and Forensic Medicine, Government Medical College, Thiruvananthapuram, Trivandrum, Kerala, India, from January 2020 to July 2021. The position of the appendix in a total of 224 patients was studied, of which 115 were surgical patients and the rest (109) were autopsy cases. All consecutive patients who met the inclusion criteria undergoing appendicectomy were included in the study. A similar procedure was followed in the autopsy series, with the consent of the nearest relatives. The mean and standard deviation were used to summarise continuous data, whereas absolute numbers and percentages were used to summarise categorical data. The prevalence of the position of the appendix was reported as a percentage. Results: The mean ± standard deviation (SD) age for the whole study group was 37.47 ± 19.30 years, and there were 149 (66.52%) males. The most common position of the appendix in the surgical arm was retrocaecal (n=58, 50.43%), and the most common position in the autopsy arm was pelvic (n=36, 33.0%). Overall, the most common position of the appendix was retrocaecal (n=86, 38.39%). Apart from a very mild correlation between age and length of the appendix, with a Pearson's correlation coefficient of -0.2808, there was no correlation between the dimensions of the appendix and anthropometric parameters. Conclusion: The most common position of the appendix is found to be retrocaecal, followed by pelvic and subcaecal. Also, considering the various factors that may influence the position of the appendix, it is difficult to state one position as the most common one.
The New South Wales Government’s Flying-fox Grants Program: changes in project themes across three funding rounds
Authors: Mo Matthew , Gregory Joshua , Timmiss Libby A. , Cenedese Susy
Published: November 2023

The presence of flying-fox camps in settled areas is often a contentious issue for residents and businesses. The Flying-fox Camp Management Policy 2015 sets the framework for land managers in New South Wales (NSW) to work with communities to manage flying-fox camps. To facilitate this, the NSW Government delivered the Flying-fox Grants Program, which provided funds for land managers to prepare and implement flying-fox management plans and undertake community engagement. There were three funding rounds, the first spanning 2016-18, followed by rounds in 2019 and 2020. Each funding round was fully subscribed, totalling 76 grants for 39 recipient organisations. Compared to the first funding round, there was a progressive decline in grants for works involving vegetation removal to create and maintain cleared buffers in the second and third funding rounds. Furthermore, only one grant was awarded for camp dispersal during the first funding round and none in subsequent funding rounds. Rather, the latter two funding rounds contained a greater representation of grants awarded for works aligned with biodiversity conservation objectives, such as replanting of native vegetation and community education, as well as the emergence of grants sought for heat stress mitigations in the subsequent funding rounds. Grants awarded for preparing flying-fox management plans progressed over the course of the program from predominantly camp-specific plans to regionwide management plans. The latter provide land managers with a streamlined approach that allows new flying-fox camps to be incorporated into management planning as they appear.
Analysis of Foreign Trade Movement and its Impactin Exchange Rate Dinar the Iraqi for the Duration (2004-2021)
Authors: Abed Ibrahim Ahmed
Published: November 2023

The research aims to study and analyze foreign trade indicators in Iraq, and their impact on the Iraqi dinar exchange rate. Therefore, the research problem was formulated to answer the question: Does foreign trade movement affect the Iraqi dinar exchange rate? Therefore, the time series was analyzed and the significant relationship between foreign trade indicators and the exchange rate was estimated using the VAR model and the Granger test. The test results for the VAR model showed that there was an effect of the volume of foreign trade on the exchange rate of the parallel Iraqi dinar during the research period. The researcher suggested several Recommendations, the most important of which are: The Monetary Authority in Iraq must take effective steps commensurate with the volume of demand for the dollar, especially in the currency sales window and the inclusion of small traders in foreign transactions that take place via the electronic platform to achieve stability in the exchange rate of the Iraqi dinar against the dollar, and to bridge the gap between the exchange rate Formal and parallel.
Knowledge of Human Immuno Deficiency Virus (HIV) Status and Preferred Testing Approach among Men in Bono Region, Ghana
Authors: Seidu Hamidatu Banawabali , Gyaase Philip , Kuupiel Desmond , Osei Ernest
Published: November 2023

Background: Countries are making progress towards the global goal of 90% of people with HIV knowing their status by 2020 and 95% by 2030. In 2019 about 19% of all those living with HIV worldwide were undiagnosed. The study sought to assess the knowledge of HIV status and preferred testing approach among men in the Bono Region, Ghana.

Methods: A cross-sectional survey involving 403 men aged 18 years and above who were accessing HIV counselling and testing services in seven major health facilities in the Bono region was employed. The data were analysed by using SPSS version 25.0 software with both descriptive and inferential analysis. Data were presented using frequencies, tables and charts. Statistical significance for all testing was set as 0.05.

Results: The results revealed that most of the respondents were below 30 years with mean age of 42.5 and standard deviation of 6.8. The prevalence rate of men who knew their HIV status in the Bono region was 55.6% and the preferred HIV testing approach was self-testing (61.3%). The reasons for the preferred approach was privacy (41%) and the predictor of HIV status was awareness (source of knowledge was significant; OR= 0.67 (95%CI=0.32,1.4); p-value=0.003. The location of the testing facility was statistically significant with OR= 1.66(95%CI=0.94,2.93); p-value=0.002 as well as marital status and occupation of the respondents were also statistically significant with OR=4.86 (95%CI=1.8-79); p-value=0.000  respectively.

Conclusion: The study concludes that if men are exposed to the facts about HIV testing services, the misconception about the disease will be reduced and more men will be involved in the HIV testing services.  The study recommends that Policies, interventions and measures on testing should be integrated in a common health problem that brings men to hospitals just as done in women. Management of the health facilities should continue with the education on HIV testing services especially among men who are yet to undertake such services to prevent fear and anxiety. Further study is required to guide a differentiated approach to programmatic interventions. Encourage a similar survey in different region to confirm or disconfirm the findings of this study.
Effect of Meteorological Parameter on Growth and Yield of Different Varieties of Field Pea (Pisum sativum L.) in the Bundi District, Rajasthan, India
Authors: Kushwah Gopal , Mehera Bishwarup , Singh Kuldeep
Published: November 2023

A field experiment was conducted in a farmer field of Bundi district, Rajasthan, Department of Environmental Science and Natural Resources Management College of Forestry, Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture, Technology and Sciences Prayagraj, during Rabi 2020-2021. The experiment used a factorial randomized block design with three different planting dates: D115 October, D2–5 November, and D3– 25 November, as well as three different varieties: V1- Annapurna, V2-Azad -111, and V3- SS- 10. The findings discovered The maximum germination percentage (78.51%) and lowest germination percentage (66.78%) of seeds per plot were found in plots D1 and V1 (15th October + Annapurna). The maximum number of branches (4.00) were found in D1 and V3 (15th October + SS-10), while the lowest number of branches were found in D3 and V1 (25th November + Annapurna) (2.33). D1 and V1 (15th November + Annapurna) reported the highest plant height of 26.00, 91.38, and 124.15cm at 30, 60, and 90 DAS, whereas D3 and V3 (25th November + SS-10) recorded the minimum plant height of 19.00, 25.54, and 67.95cm at 30, 60, and 90 DAS. D3 and V3 (05th November + SS-10) had the highest blooming percentage (50.41), whereas D3 and V2 (25th November + Aazad-111) had the lowest flowering percentage (46.18). D1 and V3 (15th October + SS-10) had the highest seeds/pods (7.0), whereas D3 had the fewest (4.0).D2 and V3 (05th November + SS-10) had the highest grain yield (12.68), whereas D3 and V1 (25th November + Annapurna) had the lowest grain yield (11.01). Variety-1 plant height was shown to have a substantial positive relationship (Annapurna).
Revisiting Linear Width: Rethinking the Relationship between Single Ideal and Linear Obstacle
Authors: Fujita Takaaki
Published: November 2023

The study of graph width parameters holds significant importance in the fields of graph theory and combinatorics. Among these parameters, linear-width stands out as a well-established and esteemed measure. The notions of single Ideal and Linear obstacle act as obstacles to achieving optimal linear-width in a connectivity system. In this succinct paper, we offer an alternative proof establishing the equivalence between single ideal and linear obstacle.
Application of Vertical Electrical Sounding (VES) for the Determination of Water-Bearing Zone in Karaworo, Lokoja Kogi State, Nigeria
Authors: Ibrahim Abdulbariu , Omeneke Aroke Lateefah , Aminu Mu’awiya Baba , Dung Pam Dajack , Salisu Sadiq Mohammed , Odinaka Ajogwu Cordelia , Akagbue Bertha Onyenachi , Ibrahim Ibrahim Olanrewaju , Ayoola Ayinla Habeeb
Published: November 2023

The importance of water in our various communities and the difficulties faced so far to get good and clean water for both domestic consumption and industrial purposes can never be overemphasized. For these purposes to be accomplished, it is necessary to survey the area of study to know more about the geology of the area, which is characterized by the Lokoja Formation, Patti Formation, and Agbaja Ironstone and the possible reasons why there is a lack of water in the area. The geoelectric survey was conducted at Karaworo with the objective of determining the sedimentary formation's geoelectrical features and analyzing the potential of the groundwater in the study area. The most frequently used type of array for Vertical Electrical Sounding (VES) is the Schlumberger array, which needs a lot of space at both ends to yield deeper subsurface information. The Schlumberger configuration was used for data acquisition. About fifteen (15) VES points were acquired at different locations within the study area. For the different VES positions, the maximum AB/2 is within 100m to 180m. Partial curve matching was used to determine the layer parameters as part of the quantitative interpretation of the VES curves. The IP2WIN software was used in the final data analysis. The depth sounding interpretation revealed subsurface layers which comprises of topsoil/clay with a resistivity range between 1.42 ohm-m to 81.0ohm-m and a thickness of 0.253 m to 70.4 m, lateritic clay with a resistivity range between 01.06ohm-m to 1730 ohm-m and a thickness of 0.236 m to 19.2 m, siltstone with resistivity range between 0.423 ohm-m to 5069 ohm-m and a thickness of 4.09 m to 28 m and sandstone with resistivity range between 0.664 ohm-m to 137 ohm-m with the thickness at infinity. Sandstone constituted the aquiferous zone. In conclusion, different types of curves which include HA-type, H-type, KH-type, QH-type and HAK-type characterize the area and hence it is suggested that boreholes be placed in low resistivity zones and considerable depth and thickness as revealed in VES 4 and VES 8 but those with low resistivity without considerable depth, for example, VES 2, VES 5, VES 6, VES 7, etc. can be developed into a hand dug well.
Analysis of the Breast Cancer Journey in Namibia
Authors: Boucheron Pauline , Zietsman Annelle , Pontac Johanna , Hansen Rolf , Anderson Benjamin O. , Togawa Kayo , Macharia Peter M. , Foerster Milena , Schüz Joachim , dos-Santos-Silva Isabel , McCormack Valerie
Published: November 2023

Importance

Breast cancer (BC) is the leading cancer among women in Namibia. Examining the BC journey in this multiracial country where inequalities remain large is needed to inform effective interventions to reduce BC mortality.

Objective

To describe the entire BC journey of Namibian women by race, utilizing the World Health Organization Global Breast Cancer Initiative (GBCI) framework.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This cohort study used the Namibian subset of the African Breast Cancer–Disparities in Outcomes prospective cohort. Participants were all Namibian residents with confirmed incident BC who presented at the main national public oncology center of the Windhoek Central Hospital (WCH). Follow-up started from recruitment (September 8, 2014, to October 5, 2016) and ended up to 3 years after diagnosis (December 13, 2014, to September 27, 2019). Data analysis was conducted from June 2022 to August 2023.

Exposures

Participants’ self-reported ethnicities were aggregated into 3 population groups: Black, mixed ancestry, and White.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Three-year overall survival (OS) was examined using Cox models, and summary statistics were used to describe women’s BC journey, including GBCI pillar key performance indicators: (1) early stage (TNM I or II) diagnosis (population benchmark ≥60%), (2) prompt diagnosis, ie, 60 days or less to first health care practitioner visit (population benchmark 100%), and (3) completion of recommended multimodal treatment (MT, ie, surgery plus chemotherapy) (population benchmark ≥80%).

Results

Of 405 women, there were 300 (74%) Black (mean [SD] age, 53 [15] years), 49 (12%) mixed ancestry (mean [SD] age, 53 [7] years), and 56 (14%) White (mean [SD] age, 59 [12] years) patients. Three-year OS was lowest in Black women (60% [95% CI, 54%-66%]; mixed ancestry: 80% [95% CI, 65%-89%]; White: 89% [95% CI, 77%-95%]), who had lower prevalence of early stage diagnosis (Black: 37% [95% CI, 31%-42%]; mixed ancestry and White: 75% [95% CI, 66%-83%]) and timely diagnosis (Black: 60% [95% CI, 54%-66%]; mixed ancestry and White: 77% [95% CI, 69%-85%]), while MT completion (Black: 53% [95% CI, 46%-59%]; mixed ancestry and White: 63% [95% CI, 50%-73%]) was low in all women.

Conclusions and Relevance

In this cohort study of 405 Namibian residents with BC, marked racial disparities in survival were paralleled by inequities all along the BC journey. To improve BC survival, interventions are needed to promote earlier diagnosis in Black Namibian women and to increase MT initiation and completion in all women.
Adapting a practical EPR dosimetry protocol to measure output factors in small fields with alanine
Authors: Höfel Sebastian , Liebig Pauline , Fix Michael K. , Drescher Malte , Zwicker Felix
Published: November 2023

Purpose

Modern radiotherapy techniques often deliver small radiation fields. In this work, a practical Electron Paramagnetic Resonance (EPR) dosimetry protocol is adapted and applied to measure output factors (OF) in small fields of a 6 MV radiotherapy system. Correction factors and uncertainties are presented and OFs are compared to the values obtained by following TRS‐483 using an ionization chamber (IC).

Methods

Irradiations were performed at 10 cm depth inside a water phantom positioned at 90 cm source to surface distance with a 6 MV flattening filter free photon beam of a Halcyon radiotherapy system. OFs for different nominal field sizes (1 × 1, 2 × 2, 3 × 3, 4 × 4, normalized to 10 × 10 cm2) were determined with a PinPoint 3D (PTW 31022) IC following TRS‐483 as well as with alanine pellets with a diameter of 4 mm and a height of 2.4 mm. EPR readout was performed with a benchtop X‐band spectrometer. Correction factors due to volume averaging and due to positional uncertainties were derived from 2D film measurements.

Results

OFs obtained from both dosimeter types agreed within 0.7% after applying corrections for the volume averaging effect. For the used alanine pellets, volume averaging correction factors of 1.030(2) for the 1 × 1 cm2 field and <1.002 for the larger field sizes were determined. The correction factor for positional uncertainties of 1 mm was in the order of 1.018 for the 1 × 1 cm2 field. Combined relative standard uncertainties uc for the OFs resulting from alanine measurements were estimated to be below 1.5% for all field sizes. For IC measurements, uc was estimated to be below 1.0%.

Conclusions

A practical EPR dosimetry protocol is adaptable for precisely measuring OFs in small fields down to 1 × 1 cm2. It is recommended to consider the effect of positional uncertainties for field sizes <2 × 2 cm2.
NYC‐based OTP provides much more, including housing and residential services
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: November 2023

The Lower Eastside Service Center, or LESC as it is now known, has a lot more going on than its opioid treatment program (OTP) with methadone. There are short‐stay, long‐stay, and various other programs. And its methadone services are not only that — whatever patients need can be provided, including housing.
Risky doses of stimulants for ADHD yield minimal therapeutic benefit
Authors: Enos Gary
Published: November 2023

Efforts to combat the risk of overdose and substance use disorder (SUD) associated with prescription stimulant misuse could receive a boost from new meta‐analytic findings that higher‐than‐recommended doses of the medications show little benefit in the treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
NY governor announces $192.8 million in opioid awards
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: November 2023

Last week Gov. Kathy Hochul of New York announced that the state has made all of the funding provided in the first year of the opioid settlement agreement available — a total of about $192.8 million.
Dislocation Arrangements and Cyclic Microplasticity Surrounding Stress Concentration in a Ni‐Based Single‐Crystal Superalloy
Authors: Piglione Alessandro , Bellamy Tom , Yu Jian , Zhao Jinqian , Xiao Chengbo , Dunne Fionn P. E. , Pham Minh-Son
Published: November 2023

Local cyclic plasticity near stress concentrations governs the fatigue crack initiation in cyclicly loaded Ni‐based single‐crystal superalloys, but has not been well studied and understood. The first of its kind transmission electron microscopy (TEM)‐based site‐specific study of plasticity in the crack initiation region in a notched single‐crystal superalloy subjected to fatigue testing at 800 °C, coupling it with microstructure‐based crystal plasticity modeling, is presented. Detailed TEM examinations show that local plasticity near the notch significantly differs from bulk plasticity, featuring high dislocation densities and distinctive arrangements of dislocation pairs within γ’ precipitates. It further shows that the increased local stresses alone are responsible for the increase in dislocation density and extensive γ’ shearing, but not solely for the distinctive arrangement of dislocation pairs seen in the notch vicinity, thus highlighting the considerable role played by the local variations in loading rates and stress state surrounding the notch. The results of this work provide new fundamental insights into the deformation micromechanisms leading to fatigue crack initiation in single‐crystal superalloys.
Self‐Powered Integrated Tactile Sensing System Based on Ultrastretchable, Self‐Healing and 3D Printable Ionic Conductive Hydrogel
Authors: Mogli Giorgio , Reina Marco , Chiappone Annalisa , Lamberti Andrea , Pirri Candido Fabrizio , Roppolo Ignazio , Stassi Stefano
Published: November 2023

Self‐healing ionic conductive hydrogels have shown significant potential in applications like wearable electronics, soft robotics, and prosthetics because of their high strain sensitivity and mechanical and electrical recovery after damage. Despite the enormous interest in these materials, conventional fabrication techniques hamper their use in advanced devices since only limited geometries can be obtained, preventing proper conformability to the complexity of human or robotic bodies. Here, a photocurable hydrogel with excellent sensitivity to mechanical deformations based on a semi‐interpenetrating polymeric network is reported, which holds remarkable mechanical properties (ultimate tensile strain of 550%) and spontaneous self‐healing capabilities, with complete recovery of its strain sensitivity after damages. Furthermore, the developed material can be processed by digital light processing 3D printing technology to fabricate complex‐shaped strain sensors, increasing mechanical stress sensitivity with respect to simple sensor geometries, reaching an exceptional pressure detection limit below 1 Pa. Additionally, the hydrogel is used as an electrolyte in the fabrication of a laser‐induced graphene‐based supercapacitor, then incorporated into a 3D‐printed sensor to create a self‐powered, fully integrated device. These findings demonstrate that by using 3D printing, it is possible to produce multifunctional, self‐powered sensors, appropriately shaped depending on the various applications, without the use of bulky batteries.
Extrudable Covalently Cross‐Linked Thio‐Urethane Liquid Crystalline Elastomers
Authors: Saed Mohand O. , Gablier Alexandra , Terentjev Eugene M.
Published: November 2023

Liquid crystalline elastomer networks cross‐linked by dynamic covalent bonds (xLCEs) possess the remarkable capability of being (re)processed during plastic flow at high temperatures, while also allowing for the (re)programming of their local alignment. However, the current generation of xLCEs cannot be extruded directly into filaments or injection‐molded into shapes capable of actuation. Here, a novel poly(thio‐urethane) (PTU) LCE thermoset is presented. The inclusion of dibutyltin dilaurate as a catalyst enables the manipulation of the elastic–plastic transition through two distinct pathways. The dissociative equilibrium exchange between the thio‐urethane linkage to form separate thiol and isocyanate competes with the associative exchange of thio‐urethane and a free isocyanate or thiol groups. The temperature of fast plastic flow onset is ≈160 ˚C, and the associated bond‐exchange activation energy is ≈54 kJ mol−1. The hydrogen bonding below the elastic‐plastic transition makes the elastomer robust and extremely ductile with a failure strain exceeding 600% and a Shore hardness A of 72, preventing any creep during cyclic thermal actuation. The versatility of this dynamically cross‐linked elastomer is successfully demonstrated by extruding it using a commercial twin‐screw extruder, injection molding it into required shapes, and hot‐pressing it into flat films or shapes.
Augmentation of Liquid Metal Particle Mechanics via Non‐Native Oxide Nanoshells
Authors: Kong Wilson , Morris Nicholas J. , Farrell Zachary J. , Wheeler Robert , Tabor Christopher E.
Published: November 2023

Room‐temperature liquid metal particles based on gallium have become significantly important for developing next‐generation soft electronics. Eutectic gallium‐indium (EGaIn) alloys can be fabricated into core‐shell particles discretely encapsulated by a passivating oxide. Application of mechanical stimuli results in rupturing the molten core through the oxide shell, merging EGaIn particles to form conductive pathways. Generally, the mechanical properties of EGaIn are largely defined by the native oxide which imparts viscoelastic properties to the fluid. In this work, the practical implications of EGaIn deformation and fracture behavior with the native oxide and a non‐native inorganic silica shell are demonstrated. To augment the mechanical properties of EGaIn, silica nanoshells are introduced as a chemically inert coating to enable brittle fracture of particles. In situ single‐particle nanoindentation characterization reveals the environmental and geometrical considerations for particle deformation and fracture. Silica‐coated EGaIn particles reach stiffness values at least an order of magnitude higher than that of native EGaIn particles. The thickness of the silica shell can be tailored to further modify the mechanical behavior of EGaIn, enabling potential pressure‐sensitive conductivity. These results provide additional pathways to understand the design and implementation of functionalized EGaIn particles for future applications in mechanoresponsive electronics, plasmonics, and therapeutics.
Selective‐Area Growth of Aligned Organic Semiconductor Nanowires and Their Device Integration
Authors: Wang Xingyu , Luo Yuhao , Liao Jihui , Joselevich Ernesto , Xu Jinyou
Published: November 2023

The simultaneous control of the orientation and position of organic semiconductor nanowires remains a major challenge when integrating them into monolithic devices. In this study, tris(8‐hydroxyquinoline)aluminum(III) (Alq3) molecules are self‐assembled into single‐crystalline nanowires with consistent orientation and predictable positions by selective‐area graphoepitaxial growth. The nanowire orientation is determined by parallel nanogrooves on a periodically modified faceted sapphire surface, and the position is simultaneously defined using a shadow mask. Computational fluid dynamics simulations showed that the mass flow field over the sapphire surface is tailored by the mask, resulting in preferential nanowire nucleation around the hole centers and leaving sufficient free space for the subsequent growth. Accordingly, the number, length, and density of the nanowires can be controlled by adjusting the mask layout. The good alignment and predictable positions of these nanowires facilitated their subsequent device integration, eliminating laborious assembly steps and potential damage after nanowire growth. Measurements from an in situ integrated two‐terminal device based on the Alq3 nanowires revealed that the nanowires exhibit a remarkable negative differential resistance and fast photoresponse in the UV region. Overall, selective‐area graphoepitaxial growth provides a versatile protocol for fabricating site‐ and orientation‐controlled organic semiconductor nanowires for the monolithic fabrication of nanowire‐based devices.
Electroconductive Collagen‐Carbon Nanodots Nanocomposite Elicits Neurite Outgrowth, Supports Neurogenic Differentiation and Accelerates Electrophysiological Maturation of Neural Progenitor Spheroids
Authors: Lomboni David J. , Ozgun Alp , de Medeiros Tayline V. , Staines William , Naccache Rafik , Woulfe John , Variola Fabio
Published: November 2023

Neuronal disorders are characterized by the loss of functional neurons and disrupted neuroanatomical connectivity, severely impacting the quality of life of patients. This study investigates a novel electroconductive nanocomposite consisting of glycine‐derived carbon nanodots (GlyCNDs) incorporated into a collagen matrix and validates its beneficial physicochemical and electro‐active cueing to relevant cells. To this end, this work employs mouse induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)‐derived neural progenitor (NP) spheroids. The findings reveal that the nanocomposite markedly augmented neuronal differentiation in NP spheroids and stimulate neuritogenesis. In addition, this work demonstrates that the biomaterial‐driven enhancements of the cellular response ultimately contribute to the development of highly integrated and functional neural networks. Lastly, acute dizocilpine (MK‐801) treatment provides new evidence for a direct interaction between collagen‐bound GlyCNDs and postsynapticN‐methyl‐D‐aspartate (NMDA) receptors, thereby suggesting a potential mechanism underlying the observed cellular events. In summary, the findings establish a foundation for the development of a new nanocomposite resulting from the integration of carbon nanomaterials within a clinically approved hydrogel, toward an effective biomaterial‐based strategy for addressing neuronal disorders by restoring damaged/lost neurons and supporting the reestablishment of neuroanatomical connectivity.
Tumor Microenvironment Modulating CaCO3‐Based Colloidosomal Microreactors Can Generally Reinforce Cancer Immunotherapy
Authors: Dong Ziliang , Liu Yan , Wang Chunjie , Hao Yu , Fan Qin , Yang Zhijuan , Li Quguang , Feng Liangzhu , Liu Zhuang
Published: November 2023

Tumor hypoxia and acidity, two general features of solid tumors, are known to have negative effect on cancer immunotherapy by directly causing dysfunction of effector immune cells and promoting suppressive immune cells inside tumors. Herein, a multifunctional colloidosomal microreactor is constructed by encapsulating catalase within calcium carbonate (CaCO3) nanoparticle‐assembled colloidosomes (abbreviated as CaP CSs) via the classic double emulsion method. The yielded CCaP CSs exhibit well‐retained proton‐scavenging and hydrogen peroxide decomposition performances and can thus neutralize tumor acidity, attenuate tumor hypoxia, and suppress lactate production upon intratumoral administration. Consequently, CCaP CSs treatment can activate potent antitumor immunity and thus significantly enhance the therapeutic potency of coloaded anti‐programmed death‐1 (anti‐PD‐1) antibodies in both murine subcutaneous CT26 and orthotopic 4T1 tumor xenografts. In addition, such CCaP CSs treatment also markedly reinforces the therapeutic potency of epidermal growth factor receptor expressing chimeric antigen receptor T (EGFR‐CAR‐T) cells toward a human triple‐negative breast cancer xenograft by promoting their tumor infiltration and effector cytokine secretion. Therefore, this study highlights that chemical modulation of tumor acidity and hypoxia can collectively reverse tumor immunosuppression and thus significantly potentiate both immune checkpoint blockade and CAR‐T cell immunotherapies toward solid tumors.
Refractive Index Engineering as a New Degree of Freedom for Designing High‐Performance AlGaN‐Based Ultraviolet C Light‐Emitting Diodes
Authors: Zheng Tongchang , Yang Lan , Zhou Changjie , Zhu Huili , Wang Xiulin , Lin Qiubao , Cai Duanjun , Kang Junyong
Published: November 2023

This study delves into a profound exploration, using simple yet effective Monte Carlo ray‐tracing simulations, of the influence of the refractive indices of multiple quantum wells (MQWs) and p‐type electron blocking layer (p‐EBL) on the photon propagation and subsequent light extraction behavior in AlGaN‐based ultraviolet‐C (UVC) light‐emitting diodes (LEDs), covering both transverse‐electric (TE) and transverse‐magnetic (TM) polarized light. Remarkably, the refractive index contrasts at the heterointerfaces of p‐EBL/MQWs/n‐AlGaN have a relatively minor impact on the extraction efficiency of TE‐polarized light but exert a significant influence on TM‐polarized light. This discrepancy arises from the substantial effect of total internal reflection at these heterointerfaces on the propagation of photons emitted at large angles. Thus, this observation elucidates the oversight of photon propagation in the conventional design of MQWs and p‐EBL in AlGaN‐based UVA and UVB LEDs, where TE‐polarized emission predominates. Building upon simulation results, a highly effective strategy for extracting TM‐polarized light in AlGaN‐based UVC LEDs is further demonstrated by combining refractive index engineering with inclined sidewalls. The findings suggest refractive index engineering can serve as a novel design parameter for AlGaN‐based UVC LEDs dominated by TM‐polarized emission, expanding the range of techniques available for enhancing device performance.
Recent Advances in Electrochemical CO2‐to‐Multicarbon Conversion: From Fundamentals to Industrialization
Authors: Wang Changli , Lv Zunhang , Feng Xiao , Yang Wenxiu , Wang Bo
Published: November 2023

The electrochemical CO2 (eCO2)‐to‐multicarbon conversion with higher value is regarded as a potential way to promote the transformation of industrial production and the green balance of carbon cycle. Recently, a series of advances have been achieved in the progress of eCO2‐to‐multicarbon conversion, including the in‐depth exploration of coupling mechanisms, the up‐to‐date development of characterization techniques, and the novel interdisciplinary design strategies of catalysts and electrolytic systems. Therefore, it is essential to systematically overview the eCO2‐to‐multicarbon conversion from fundamentals to industrialization, compensating for the limited and insufficient reviews that have been reported. To fill the aforementioned research gap, this overview is focused on the eCO2‐to‐multicarbon conversion from fundamentals to industrialization. First, the possible catalytic mechanisms for eCO2‐to‐multicarbon conversion are accordingly summarized in the order of eCO2 reduction, small molecule‐coupled eCO2 reduction, and eCO2 tandem conversion. Second, the up‐to‐date in situ characterization technologies assisting the rationalization of coupling mechanisms are presented. Third, the optimizing strategies of catalysts and electrolytic systems are briefly classified for the advance of industrialization process. Finally, challenges and perspectives for the further development of eCO2‐to‐multicarbon conversion are reasonably proposed, aiming to offer insights for the following work in this field.
The normalisation of sexual violence revictimisation in regional and rural areas: Our failure to respond
Authors: Corbett Emily , Power Jennifer , Theobald Jacqui , Edmonds Lee , Wright Kate , Hooker Leesa
Published: November 2023

Sexual revictimisation has devastating consequences for victim/survivors, yet there is limited research exploring women's experience of revictimisation in regional/rural areas. Using a community‐based participatory research (CBPR) approach, this paper reports on a qualitative study that employed a material feminist lens and Nixon's theory of “slow violence” to explore women's lived experiences of sexual revictimisation. In‐depth interviews were conducted with victim/survivors (N = 11) living in regional and rural areas of Australia. Findings show that the failure of family, community and services to respond appropriately to participant's disclosures of violence and abuse was deeply entangled with rural infrastructure, isolated landscapes, fear of social isolation, victim‐blaming discourses, idealisation of men in the community and limited relationship and sexuality education (RSE) in schools. These components collectively formed a manifestation of “slow violence,” which accumulated over the participants' life spans and gradually normalised relational violence. This paper draws attention to a complex interplay of cultural, material and interpersonal elements, including the culture and spaces of rural/regional communities, that establish conditions enhancing the likelihood of women experiencing sexual revictimisation.
Data and evaluation: A match made in policy heaven
Authors: Leigh Andrew
Published: November 2023

Better data are fundamental to improving the effectiveness of policies. Drawing on examples from nutrition, education, criminal justice and income support, I discuss how data access has contributed to policy improvements. Data linkage across departments can also help ensure that policymakers are focussed on the right policy goals, rather than merely those that are easiest to measure. As governments increase the rigour of evaluation, quality data will be crucial.
Efficient All‐Perovskite Tandem Solar Cells with Low‐Optical‐Loss Carbazolyl Interconnecting Layers
Authors: Liu Chenshuaiyu , Lin Renxing , Wang Yurui , Gao Han , Wu Pu , Luo Haowen , Zheng Xuntian , Tang Beibei , Huang Zilong , Sun Hongfei , Zhao Siyang , Guo Yijia , Wen Jin , Fan Fengjia , Tan Hairen
Published: November 2023

Combining wide‐band gap (WBG) and narrow‐band gap (NBG) perovskites with interconnecting layers (ICLs) to construct monolithic all‐perovskite tandem solar cell is an effective way to achieve high power conversion efficiency (PCE). However, optical losses from ICLs need to be further reduced to leverage the full potential of all‐perovskite tandem solar cells. Here, metal oxide nanocrystal layers anchored with carbazolyl hole‐selective‐molecules (CHs), which exhibit much lower optical loss, is employed to replace poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene) polystyrenesulfonate (PEDOT : PSS) as the hole transporting layers (HTLs) in lead‐tin (Pb‐Sn) perovskite sub‐cells and ICLs in all‐perovskite tandem solar cells. Optically transparent indium tin oxide nanocrystals (ITO NCs) layers are employed to enhance anchoring of CHs, while a mixture of two CHs is adopted to tune the surface energy‐levels of ITO NCs. The optimized mixed Pb‐Sn NBG perovskite solar cells demonstrate a high PCE of 23.2 %, with a high short‐circuit current density (Jsc) of 33.5 mA cm−2. A high PCE of 28.1 % is further obtained in all‐perovskite tandem solar cells, with the highest Jsc of 16.7 mA cm−2 to date. Encapsulated tandem solar cells maintain 90 % of their reference point after 500 h of operation at the maximum power point (MPP) under 1‐Sun illumination.
Blueberry intervention mitigates detrimental microbial metabolite trimethylamine N‐oxide by modulating gut microbes
Authors: Satheesh Babu Adhini Kuppuswamy , Petersen Chrissa , Iglesias‐Carres Lisard , Paz Henry A. , Wankhade Umesh D. , Neilson Andrew P. , Anandh Babu Pon Velayutham
Published: November 2023

Gut microbes play a pivotal role in host physiology by producing beneficial or detrimental metabolites. Gut bacteria metabolize dietary choline and L‐carnitine to trimethylamine (TMA) which is then converted to trimethylamine‐N‐oxide (TMAO). An elevated circulating TMAO is associated with diabetes, obesity, cardiovascular disease, and cancer in humans. In the present study, we investigated the effect of dietary blueberries and strawberries at a nutritional dosage on TMA/TMAO production and the possible role of gut microbes. Blueberry cohort mice received a control (C) or freeze‐dried blueberry supplemented (CB) diet for 12 weeks and subgroups received an antibiotics cocktail (CA and CBA). Strawberry cohort mice received a control (N) or strawberry‐supplemented (NS) diet and subgroups received antibiotics (NA and NSA). Metabolic parameters, choline, TMA, and TMAO were assessed in addition to microbial profiling and characterization of berry powders. Blueberry supplementation (equivalent to 1.5 human servings) reduced circulating TMAO in CB versus C mice (~48%) without changing choline or TMA. This effect was not mediated through alterations in metabolic parameters. Dietary strawberries did not reduce choline, TMA, or TMAO. Depleting gut microbes with antibiotics in these cohorts drastically reduced TMA and TMAO to not‐quantified levels. Further, dietary blueberries increased the abundance of bacterial taxa that are negatively associated with circulating TMA/TMAO suggesting the role of gut microbes. Our phenolic profiling indicates that this effect could be due to chlorogenic acid and increased phenolic contents in blueberries. Our study provides evidence for considering dietary blueberries to reduce TMAO and prevent TMAO‐induced complications.
Two‐dimensional Ti3C2 MXene for photocatalytic hydrogen production: A review
Authors: Reghunath B. Shalini , Rajasekaran Sruthi , Mathew Sandra , Pinheiro Dephan , Devi K. R Sunaja , Jung Sieon , Jayaraman Theerthagiri , Choi Myong Yong
Published: November 2023

This study focuses on the utilization of two‐dimensional Ti3C2 MXene as a catalyst for photocatalytic hydrogen production. MXenes, a class of transition metal carbides/nitrides, exhibit exceptional properties conducive to enhancing photocatalytic reactions. This research explores the performance of Ti3C2 MXene as a cocatalyst in photocatalytic systems, aiming to improve charge separation, inhibit recombination, and facilitate efficient hydrogen evolution from water under light irradiation. The synthesis methods, catalyst‐loading strategies, and overall photocatalytic mechanisms are investigated, shedding light on the potential of Ti3C2 MXene as a promising material for advancing hydrogen production through sustainable means.