Photoionization Dynamics of the Tetraoxo Complexes OsO4 and RuO4

The photoionization dynamics of OsO4 and RuO4, chosen as model systems of small-size mononuclear heavy-metal complexes, has been theoretically studied by the time-dependent density functional theory (TDDFT). Accurate experimental measurements of photoionization dynamics as a benchmarking test for the theory are reported for the photoelectron asymmetry parameters of outer valence ionizations of OsO4, measured in the 17-90 eV photon energy range. The theoretical results are in good agreement with the available experimental data. The observed dynamical behavior of partial cross sections and asymmetry parameters has been related to both the coupling to the continuum of discrete excited states, giving strong modulations in the photon energy dependency, and the atomic composition of the initial ionized states, which determines the rate of decay of ionization probability for increasing excitation energies. Overall, an extensive analysis of the photoionization dynamics for valence and core orbitals is presented, showing good agreement with all the available experimental data. This provides confidence for the validity of the TDDFT approach in describing photoionization of heavy transition element compounds, with the perspective of being used for larger systems. Further experimental work is suggested for RuO4 to gather evidence of the sensitivity of the theoretical method to the nature of the metal atom

Self-reported safety belt use among emergency department patients in Boston, Massachusetts

BACKGROUND: Safety belt use is 80% nationally, yet only 63% in Massachusetts. Safety belt use among potentially at-risk groups in Boston is unknown. We sought to assess the prevalence and correlates of belt non-use among emergency department (ED) patients in Boston. METHODS: A cross-sectional survey with systematic sampling was conducted on non-urgent ED patients age ≥18. A closed-ended survey was administered by interview. Safety belt use was defined via two methods: a single-item and a multiple-item measure of safety belt use. Each was scored using a 5-point frequency scale. Responses were used to categorize safety belt use as 'always' or less than 'always'. Outcome for multivariate logistic regression analysis was safety belt use less than 'always'. RESULTS: Of 478 patients approached, 381 (80%) participated. Participants were 48% female, 48% African-American, 40% White, median age 39. Among participants, 250 (66%) had been in a car crash; 234 (61%) had a valid driver's license, and 42 (11%) had been ticketed for belt non-use. Using two different survey measures, a single-item and a multiple-item measure, safety belt use 'always' was 51% and 36% respectively. According to separate regression models, factors associated with belt non-use included male gender, alcohol consumption >5 drinks in one episode, riding with others that drink and drive, ever receiving a citation for belt non-use, believing that safety belt use is 'uncomfortable', and that 'I just forget', while 'It's my usual habit' was protective. CONCLUSION: ED patients at an urban hospital in Boston have considerably lower self-reported safety belt use than state or national estimates. An ED-based intervention to increase safety belt use among this hard-to-reach population warrants consideration

Energy security and shifting modes of governance

The concept of energy security fits uneasily into contemporary security debates. It is neither a clearly traditional nor a fully ‘non-traditional’ security issue. There are also limits to the social constructedness of the concept. This article argues that, while it is important to identify the differing securitizations of energy, these must be contextualized within the material realities and the differing historical modes of governance of the political economy of resources. This is essential for understanding the differing meanings accorded to energy security, the shifting modes through which energy is governed, and the extent to which energy security concerns drive international politics. In this context, contemporary concerns over energy security have both material and ideological dimensions: anxiety over the dual shift of power from West to East and from resource-importing to resource-exporting countries; and concern over the normative weakening of the neo-liberal mode of energy governance

How do national mining industry associations compare on sustainable development?

This study establishes new knowledge about country-level mining industry associations with respect to sustainable development. Industry associations present an opportunity for diffusion of leading practice norms and standards in this arena. We examined the emergence of mining industry associations, their public statements about sustainability, and the degree to which they general statements were translated into formal policies. Of 61 mining industry associations with web presence, 20 (33%) had not made a public statement about sustainability. Of the 41 associations that had made a public statement about sustainability, 13 (32%) did not have a sustainable development policy, or a position that translated general statements into specific commitments. Only half of the associations with a web presence mention the social aspects of mining. These findings highlight a significant gap in the coverage of sustainable development and associated policy commitments among mining industry associations. The study raises questions about the degree to which country-level mining industry associations are approaching sustainable development in a meaningful way, and what can be done to avoid promulgating sustainability “spin”

Lithium nexus : energy, geopolitics, and socio-environmental impacts in Mexico's Sonora project

The global transition to low-carbon energy systems has dramatically increased the demand for lithium, essential for energy storage and transport electrification—with lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries as the dominant technology in both market segments. However, the majority control of its downstream processing by China present challenges. Enter the Sonora Lithium Project in Mexico, home to what could be one of the world's largest lithium deposits. This project symbolizes the convergence of geopolitical stakes, as both China and the United States (U.S.) have keen interests in its success. The Mexican government's 2022 establishment of Litio para México (LitioMx), a national lithium company, could reshape global lithium dynamics, but the influence of powerful drug cartels in the region presents significant security obstacles to rapid development. Further, modern mining's challenges, such as the need for sustainable practices and addressing socio-environmental concerns, come to the fore. Mexico's mining laws thus far fall short in ensuring Indigenous rights and environmental protection. The Sonora project, while promising, highlights the myriad complexities surrounding lithium mining. This paper delves into these challenges using the Sonora Project as a lens, aiming to provide clarity and insights for various decision-makers, stakeholders, and researchers