bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Corrosion and Natural Corrosion Inhibitors: A Case Study forC. microphyllus
Authors: Prasad Dwarika
Published: October 2021

Worldwide, corrosion causes the value of the gross domestic product to decrease in industrialized countries by 4.26% and causes significant losses to industries including infrastructure. As a result, corrosion prevention and research related to it are extremely important. Some researchers are working to develop plant-based natural corrosion inhibitors, and experimental and computational studies are being conducted widely to prevent corrosion through cheap and environmental friendly coatings. A case study of Convolvulus microphyllus (C. microphyllus) extract was examined as eco-friendly for bio-corrosion inhibitor of mild steel in 0.5 M H2SO4 by using conventional weight loss, electrochemical polarization measurements, and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) techniques. The compounds responsible for decreasing the rate of corrosion are kaempferol and phydroxycinnamic acid present in the extract. This inhibitor slows down the corrosion rate. Out of many observations, the best result 89.87% corrosion resistance efficiency was obtained at 600 mg/L of C. microphyllus as extract for mild steel in 0.5 M H2SO4 by applying electrochemical and weight loss measurements. The presence of a heteroatom in the main component of C. microphyllus as extract is believed to be an excellent inhibitor. Theoretical research revealed an entirely important report about comparative inhibition effect of different phytochemicals.
pH Control and Aroma Improvement Using the Non-Saccharomyces Lachancea thermotolerans and Hanseniaspora spp. Yeasts to Improve Wine Freshness in Warm Areas
Authors: Morata Antonio , Escott Carlos , Loira Iris , Manuel Del Fresno Juan , Vaquero Cristian , Antonia Bañuelos María , Palomero Felipe , López Carmen , González Carmen
Published: October 2021

Lachancea thermotolerans is a yeast species that works as a powerful bio tool capable of metabolizing grape sugars into lactic acid via lactate dehydrogenase enzymes. The enological impact is an increase in total acidity and a decrease in pH levels (sometimes >0.5 pH units) with a concomitant slight reduction in alcohol (0.2–0.4% vol.), which helps balance freshness in wines from warm areas. In addition, higher levels of molecular SO2 are favored, which helps to decrease SO2 total content and achieve better antioxidant and antimicrobial performance. The simultaneous use with some apiculate yeast species of the genus Hanseniaspora helps to improve the aromatic profile through the production of acetyl esters and, in some cases, terpenes, which makes the wine aroma more complex, enhancing floral and fruity scents and making more complex and fresh wines. Furthermore, many species of Hanseniaspora increase the structure of wines, thus improving their body and palatability. Ternary fermentations with Lachancea thermotolerans and Hanseniaspora spp. sequentially followed by Saccharomyces cerevisiae are a useful bio tool for producing fresher wines from neutral varieties in warm areas.
Sialoendoscopy in Juvenile Recurrent Parotitis That Could Be Primary Pediatric Sjogren’s Syndrome
Authors: Iorio Brigida , De Luca Roberto , Tartaro Gianpaolo , Colella Giuseppe
Published: October 2021

Parotid swelling often is encountered in the pediatric population, essentially acute and self-limiting, which usually represents viral or bacterial infections. Less common etiologies include juvenile recurrent parotitis (JRP) or pneumoparotid or anatomic abnormalities. Sjögren’s syndrome is common in JRP (40% almost). Levels of suspicion for an autoimmune disorder should be maintained for children affected by JRP, particulary in bilateral glands involvement in order to optimize diagnoses and facilitate treatment. Cytological examination of saliva, which is normally in children is acellular, shows granulocytes, lymphocytes, and in some cases 50% of bacteria. Sialoendoscopy typically shows whitish ductal walls and the presence of stenosis without evidence of solid obstructions and/or mucous membranes. Sialoendoscopic treatment can improve symptoms thanks to local anti-inflammatory therapy and sialoendoscopic washing.
Evaluation of seed germination development and initial growth of cotton plants exposed to cadmium
Authors: dos Santos Pedro Silva , de Souza Guilherme Maria de Fátima , de Souza Guilherme Laianne , dos Santos-Oliveira José Lucas , da Silva Edevaldo
Published: October 2021

Esta investigación evaluó los efectos fitotóxicos del cadmio en el desarrollo germinativo y el crecimiento inicial de Gossypium hirsutum L. Se evaluaron los efectos ecotoxicológicos de 13 concentraciones experimentales de cadmio (0.0-50.0 mM) sobre variables de respuesta como porcentaje de germinación (IVG), tiempo promedio de germinación (TMG) y longitud de la raíz de las plántulas. Las semillas de G. hirsutum expuestas al cadmio mostraron una disminución en el porcentaje de germinación y un aumento en el número de plántulas anormales con las concentraciones 18.0 y 3.0 mM, respectivamente, además de inhibir el crecimiento de la raíz y elevar el TMG de la exposición a 0,5 mM, reduciendo el IVG. G. hirsutum es una especie tolerante al cadmio durante su desarrollo germinativo

This research evaluated the phytotoxic effects of cadmium on the germination development and initial growth of Gossypium hirsutum L. The ecotoxicological effects of 13 experimental concentrations of cadmium (0.0-50.0 mM) on variables like germination percentage, GSI, average germination time (AGT) and root length were evaluated. G. hirsutum seeds exposed to cadmium showed a decrease in germination percentage and an increase in the number of normal plantules from the concentrations 18.0 and 3.0 mM, respectively. It also inhibited root growth and increased the AGT from the exposure to the concentration 0.5 mM, reducing the GSI. G. hirsutum is tolerant to cadmium during its germinal stage.
Praksisforløb under covid-19
Authors: Meyer Bente Tobiesen , Henningsen Birgitte
Published: October 2021

Nedlukninger og omlægninger af universiteternes undervisning i 2020 har påvirket ikke kun de studerendes formelle, fysiske uddannelsesaktiviteter, men også deres måder at deltage i praksis på uden for universitetet. Det gælder faglige undersøgelsesmetoder som feltarbejde og interview, men også ECTS-givende praksisophold i private og offentlige virksomheder. Denne artikel har fokus på universitetsstuderendes praksisophold i virksomheder, der er præget af nedlukning og hjemsendelser, og hvor de studerende har særlige faglige forudsætninger for at bidrage til omlægning og udvikling af virksomhedens aktiviteter til digitale praksisser. Vi stiller derfor spørgsmålet, Hvordan præges universitetsstuderendes deltagelse i praksisforløb i virksomheder af covid-19, og hvordan inddrages de studerende i digitale omstillinger og udvikling i forbindelse med hjemsendelser og nedlukninger? Artiklen bygger på en interviewundersøgelse lavet i efteråret 2020 med studerende fra en kandidatuddannelse på AAU, og trækker derudover på aktuel forskningslitteratur om arbejdslæring og praksisophold under covid-19. Teoretisk lægges der vægt på praksisdeltagelse som en problembaseret læringsproces og på organisatoriske omstillinger som komplekse forandringsprocesser, hvor både sociale og materielle rammer former digitale praksisser. Data peger på at de studerendes faglighed involveres i håndtering af både sociale afkoblinger og centrale digitale omstillingsprocesser i virksomhederne, og at dette kan forme deres faglighed såvel som virksomhedernes praksis.
Effect of SARS-CoV-2 proteins on vascular permeability
Authors: Rauti Rossana , Shahoha Meishar , Leichtmann-Bardoogo Yael , Nasser Rami , Paz Eyal , Tamir Rina , Miller Victoria , Babich Tal , Shaked Kfir , Ehrlich Avner , Ioannidis Konstantinos , Nahmias Yaakov , Sharan Roded , Ashery Uri , Maoz Ben Meir
Published: October 2021

Severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS)-CoV-2 infection leads to severe disease associated with cytokine storm, vascular dysfunction, coagulation, and progressive lung damage. It affects several vital organs, seemingly through a pathological effect on endothelial cells. The SARS-CoV-2 genome encodes 29 proteins, whose contribution to the disease manifestations, and especially endothelial complications, is unknown. We cloned and expressed 26 of these proteins in human cells and characterized the endothelial response to overexpression of each, individually. Whereas most proteins induced significant changes in endothelial permeability, nsp2, nsp5_c145a (catalytic dead mutant of nsp5), and nsp7 also reduced CD31, and increased von Willebrand factor expression and IL-6, suggesting endothelial dysfunction. Using propagation-based analysis of a protein–protein interaction (PPI) network, we predicted the endothelial proteins affected by the viral proteins that potentially mediate these effects. We further applied our PPI model to identify the role of each SARS-CoV-2 protein in other tissues affected by coronavirus disease (COVID-19). While validating the PPI network model, we found that the tight junction (TJ) proteins cadherin-5, ZO-1, and β-catenin are affected by nsp2, nsp5_c145a, and nsp7 consistent with the model prediction. Overall, this work identifies the SARS-CoV-2 proteins that might be most detrimental in terms of endothelial dysfunction, thereby shedding light on vascular aspects of COVID-19.
Virophages and retrotransposons colonize the genomes of a heterotrophic flagellate
Authors: Hackl Thomas , Duponchel Sarah , Barenhoff Karina , Weinmann Alexa , Fischer Matthias G
Published: October 2021

Virophages can parasitize giant DNA viruses and may provide adaptive anti-giant virus defense in unicellular eukaryotes. Under laboratory conditions, the virophage mavirus integrates into the nuclear genome of the marine flagellate Cafeteria burkhardae and reactivates upon superinfection with the giant virus CroV. In natural systems, however, the prevalence and diversity of host-virophage associations has not been systematically explored. Here, we report dozens of integrated virophages in four globally sampled C. burkhardae strains that constitute up to 2% of their host genomes. These endogenous mavirus-like elements (EMALEs) separated into eight types based on GC-content, nucleotide similarity, and coding potential and carried diverse promoter motifs implicating interactions with different giant viruses. Between host strains, some EMALE insertion loci were conserved indicating ancient integration events, whereas the majority of insertion sites were unique to a given host strain suggesting that EMALEs are active and mobile. Furthermore, we uncovered a unique association between EMALEs and a group of tyrosine recombinase retrotransposons, revealing yet another layer of parasitism in this nested microbial system. Our findings show that virophages are widespread and dynamic in wild Cafeteria populations, supporting their potential role in antiviral defense in protists.
Personal Goals as Moderators of a Cognitive-Behavioural Intervention for Depressive Symptoms in College Students
Authors: Paré Marie-Laurence , Marcotte Diane
Published: October 2021

The objective of this pilot study was to assess the effects of the indicated level of a multilevel preventive program on depressive symptoms and to examine personal goals appraisal as a moderating factor among college students aged between 16 and 29 years old with depressive symptoms. Students were screened for anxious and depressive symptoms in the beginning of their semester. Those who scored higher than the cut-off score were invited to be part of the intervention group. A comparison group was formed with students who did not wish to participate with the intervention group. Thirty-six students were included in the analyses. Both groups completed pre-test, post-test, and follow-up questionnaires. Results indicated a reduction in depressive symptoms at post-test and these gains were maintained three months later. Students in the intervention group with a more positive appraisal of their academic and career goals showed fewer depressive symptoms than students in the intervention group with a less positive appraisal of these goals. Limitations and implications for further implementation are discussed.
Clubhouse Model and Its Impact on Psychiatric Hospitalization in Canada: A Cohort Study
Authors: Russell Matthew Joseph , Lifeso Natasha , Fazio Jordan , Piatt Carley , Kelton Frank , Cui Xinjie , Nwachukwu Izu
Published: October 2021

We investigated the relationship between membership in an accredited Clubhouse for mental health support and psychiatric hospitalization in Canada using linked administrative data. Results show that Clubhouse members were less likely to be hospitalized after enrollment and after longer-term enrollment, and younger members diagnosed with schizophrenia and/or bipolar disorders were at increased risk of hospitalization compared to older members without such diagnoses. These findings provide evidence of the possible benefits of Clubhouses in Canada and the characteristics of members who may benefit from support.
Attitude of Sericulture Beneficiary Farmers towards the Activities of Technical Service Centres (TSCs) in Karnataka State of India
Authors: Harisha N. , Rao B. Mukunda , Krishna T. Gopi , Devi K. Uma , Nafeez Umar S. K.
Published: October 2021

Sericulture in Karnataka is in the process of modernization in many phases through new demand driven extension approach called Technical Service Centres (TSCs) located at the grass-root level (Hobli and Taluka level). These centres mainly involved in the dissemination of the technologies developed by the Research Institutes and also in supply of mulberry cuttings/saplings, monitoring mulberry cultivation, silkworm rearing and providing   information about loan facilities and subsidy schemes. There is a need to study the attitude of sericulture beneficiary farmers towards activities of TSCs. The study was conducted during 2018-20 in the Karnataka state of India. The Karnataka state was contributing 35.00 per cent of silk production in India. An ex-post facto research design was used or the study. An attitude was measured by Likert scale construction. The Ramanagara and Mandya districts were selected because these district having highest number of TSCs in Bangalore and Mysore division respectively. Mandya, Malavalli and K.R Pet taluks from Mandya district on the other hand Ramanagara, Channapatna and Kanakapura taluks from Ramanagara district were purposively selected for the study. Above taluks were selected based on top 3 taluks in TSCs in district. The four TSCs from each taluk leads to twelve from each district, Totally, 24 TSCs were selected for the study. Ten sericulture farmers under each TSC, collectively 240, were selected by using random sampling method. The study revealed that just little more than half (50.42%) of the sericulture farmers had medium favourable attitude towards activities of TSCs followed by high favourable attitude (35.00%) and only 14.58 per cent of the sericulture farmers had low favourable attitude. The probable reason might be majority of the sericulture farmers participated in trainings at Sericulture Training Institute at K.R Pet of Mandya District and Channapatna of Ramanagara district and also they were undergone for study tour to Kolar district. They were supplied subsidized mulberry saplings, bed disinfectants, growth promoters among sericulture farmers.
Effect of Oral Consumption of Action Bitters on Renal Indices of Apparently Healthy Subjects in Port Harcourt Metropolis
Authors: A. Waribo Helen , Edamisan Esther , Elekima Ibioku , S. Bartimaeus Ebirien-Agana
Published: October 2021

Action bitters has been seen not to have nephro-toxic effects on the kidney. However, this study evaluated the effects of sachet packaged action bitters on the kidney of apparently healthy subjects. Blood sample was collected from 20 subjects. Basal blood sample and the blood samples collected after 2 hours of intake of action bitters by subjects were analyzed. The parameters analyzed include sodium, potassium, urea and creatinine using the colorimetric method of analysis and results subjected further to statistical analysis using the GraphPad Prism Version 8.02.Basal results of the renal indices obtained showed the values to be; 144.16 ± 8.89 mmol/L, 3.81 ± 0.57 mmol/L, 25.70 ± 5.66 mg/dL and 1.05 ± 0.38 mg/dL for sodium, potassium, urea and creatinine respectively while the results obtained from the subjects two(2) hours after the intake of action bitters were; 128.18 ± 11.05 mmol/L, 2.93 ± 0.57 mmol/L, 25.34 ± 4.74 mg/dL and 1.51 ± 0.75 mg/dL for sodium. potassium, urea and creatinine values respectively. The comparison of the basal and treated sample showed significant differences in the values of sodium, potassium and creatinine (P=0.05) while the urea value was not significantly different. The mean value for sodium and potassium in the treated subjects were significantly decreased when compared to the value gotten at the basal state where the action bitter has not been consumed by the subject whereas the creatinine value was significantly increased in the sample of the treated subjects compared to the value of the basal sample. This implies that exposure to a higher dose of action bitters might be detrimental to renal function in the body hence, the dose of bitters and its consumption by humans should be monitored in order to protect against any adverse effect, and subsequent malfunctioning of the kidney.
Action Research Addressing the Implementation of Life Skills Education on Adolescent Reproductive Sexual Health (Teenage Pregnancy, Sexual Activities, STIs, HIV/AIDs) for the Positive Behavioural Outcome
Authors: Norbu Lhawang , Gurung Namchu
Published: October 2021

Sexual health is a serious public health concern with long-term implications on health and fertility. Improving the sexual health of our teenagers and preventing teenage pregnancy is a national priority that the current government of Bhutan with the help of concern stakeholders aim to reduce teenage conception rate and sexually transmitted infections by 2022 to the minimum. If we are to achieve this ambitious target, parents, teachers and paediatricians need to consider the sexual health needs of our teenage population and recognize times where we are able to offer advice, screening or signposting. As increasing number of Bhutanese youths are becoming victim of teenage pregnancy and STIs. The study was aimed to make awareness to our youth to improve their understanding on adolescent reproductive sexual health (teenage pregnancy, sexual activities STIs, HIV/AIDs) for positive behavioural outcome. Therefore, imparting applicable life skills education to our young minds has become indispensable to curb the aforementioned issues. The study was carried out in Ura Central School, Bhutan. The participants of the study consisted of 61 studying in class VIII and X and 25 teachers. The study adopted mixed method; quantitative approach included survey whereas for qualitative approach included semi-structured interview. Survey data were collected from 61 students and 25 teachers whereas interview data were collected from 10 students and 5 teachers. The study found the intervention (awareness programme via teaching, roleplay, discussion) effective with students in the post-data showing better understanding of the students regarding teenage pregnancy, sexual activities and STIs.
Ethyl Acetate Fraction of Total Phenols from Zanthoxylum zanthoxyloides Leaves Treated Alloxan-Induced Diabetic Albino Rats
Authors: Ekwemba C. O. , Nwachukwu N. , Ibegbulem C. O.
Published: October 2021

Aims: Ethyl acetate fraction of total phenols from Zanthoxylum zanthoxyloides leaves was evaluated for its effects in alloxan-induced diabetic male albino rats.

Methodology: Diabetes was induced in rats by administrating alloxan monohydrate at a dose of 130 mg/kg body weight. The ethyl acetate fraction was administered to rats at 100, 200 and 400 mg/kg b.w. daily for 15 days. Blood glucose, lipid profile and pancreatic histopathology were monitored using standard methods.

Results: Results indicated that two weeks after treatment with Z. zanthoxyloides, significant (p<0.05) reductions in hyperglycemic blood glucose, total cholesterol and low-density lipoproteins (LDL) were recorded; with lowest values recorded in the group treated with the highest concentration of the extract. Histopathological examination of pancreatic tissues supported the protective effect of Z. zanthoxyloides phenol extract against diabetic damage.

Conclusion: In conclusion, total phenols of Z. zanthoxyloides exerted antidiabetic effects in alloxan-induced diabetic rats and protected pancreatic tissues from diabetic damage.
A Study of Atherogenic Plasma & Triglyceride-Glucose Indices and Monocyte/HDL-C Ratios in Colon Cancer Patients
Authors: Gündoğdu Utku Dönem , Çoban Funda Karabağ
Published: October 2021

Colon cancer is a tumor of the large intestine. It is the third most common cause of cancer-related death in the United States. However, most people with colon cancer get better if the cancer is found early. The atherogenic index of plasma (AIP), triglyceride-glucose (TyG) index, are strongly associated with atherogenesis of the coronary artery however, studies on its relationship with cancer are limited in the literature. This study aimed to investigate the association of the AIP, TyG index, and Monocyte/HDL-C with colon cancer patients.
Molecular Mechanism of Changes in Gene Expression of Cytosolic Cu/Zn SOD, Lipid Peroxidation and Hepatic Function Impairments during Experimental Fluorosis
Authors: Shashi A. , Thakur Sukanya
Published: October 2021

Background: Long term intake of high amount of fluoride leads to fluorosis causing metabolic, functional and structural damages affecting many tissues and organs including dental and skeletal manifestations. The liver is the most susceptible organ to fluoride toxicity because of its active and major role in digestion and detoxification.

Aim: The present study aims to elucidate the effects of sodium fluoride on hepatic function biomarkers, lipid peroxidation and gene expression of Cu/Zn SOD in albino rats.

Materials and Methods: Wistar albino rats were randomly assigned to three groups. The control rats were given 1 ml deionized water orally for 40 days. Groups II and III were administered 300 and 600 mg NaF/kg b.w. /day for the same period. Animals were sacrificed under anaesthesia, liver tissue was excised and used for biochemical and molecular analysis. The level of fluoride and lipid peroxidation (MDA) as well as reduced glutathione (GSH) content was determined. The activities of cytosolic copper/zinc superoxide dismutase (Cu/Zn SOD), aminotransferases (ALT and AST), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) in the hepatic tissue were determined. The analysis of gene expression of Cu/Zn SOD in the liver was determined using Real-time PCR.

Results: The results revealed significantly (P<0.0001) higher concentration of fluoride and MDA in the liver of rats exposed to fluoride when compared to control. The GSH content reduced significantly (P<0.0001) in fluorotic rats. The activities of hepatic function biomarkers viz; ALT, AST, LDH and ALP elevated significantly (P<0.0001) compared to the control. An elevation of 108.60% (ALP), 121.45% (AST), 33.77% (LDH) and least 24.40% (ALT) was found in rats treated with 300 mg/L fluoride and maximum elevation of 226.20% (ALP), 211.52% (AST), 57.75% (LDH) and least 56.79% (ALT) was registered in rats exposed to 600 mg/L fluoride in drinking water. The activity of cytosolic Cu/Zn SOD decreased significantly (P<0.0001) in fluorotic rats. Pearson’s bivariate correlation and simple linear regression analysis exhibited strong positive correlation between level of hepatic tissue fluoride and activities of ALT (Pearson r= 0.85), AST (Pearson r= 0.94), LDH (Pearson r= 0.89), ALP (Pearson r= 0.86) and in MDA (Pearson r=0.984) while negative correlations existed between levels of fluoride and GSH (Pearson r=-0.93) as well as activity of Cu/Zn SOD (Pearson r= -0.99). The gene expression of cytosolic Cu/Zn SOD was significantly (P<0.0001) reduced in fluorotic rats.

Conclusion: The present study revealed that fluoride declined the antioxidant activity of hepatic Cu/Zn SOD at biochemical as well as molecular level which leads to oxidative stress and tissue damage. This further affirms by increased activities of hepatic function biomarkers in correlation with high fluoride level during experimental fluorosis.
Prescription Patterns for Empagliflozin among Adults with Diabetes Mellitus in Dhaka, Bangladesh
Authors: Shill Diponkor Kumar , Jahan Sadia , Reza Md. Shahjalal , Shohan Shahriar Mohammad , Rajbangshi Joy Chandra
Published: October 2021

Objective: To evaluate the prescribing pattern of empagliflozin with respect to other concomitant prescribed drugs in a diabetic patient.

Methods: The present research study was conducted in Dhaka from May 2021 to July 2021 at National Healthcare Network (NHN), Dhaka (Jurain, Uttara and Mirpur Branch).  A total of 139 were included in this study by following a simple random procedure.

Results: According to the research criterion, 198 prescriptions were collected and 139 were assessed for the study. 78 (56.12%) were male and 72 (51.8%) belonged to the age group 30-64 years, and 67 (48.2%) were in the age group of 65-79 years. 57 (41%) had normal weight, followed by 33 (23.74%) who were overweight, and 49 (35.25%) patients were obese. Approximately 73 (52.52%) of prescriptions prescribed empagliflozin alone, whereas 76 (54.68%) of prescriptions prescribed the combination of empagliflozin and metformin. Among 202 co-prescribed anti-diabetic preparations other than empagliflozin (either monotherapy or combination therapy), 142 (70.30%) were oral hypoglycemic and 60 (29.70%) were insulin preparations. Apart from anti-diabetics, 396 medications were prescribed in this study, including anti-hypertensives (n=47;11.87%) and lipid-lowering drugs (n=43;10.86%). The number of protein pump inhibitors (PPIs) and nutritional supplements were 106 (26.77%) and 84 (21.21%) prescriptions respectively.

Conclusion: Empagliflozin is one of the most often recommended anti-diabetic medications in Bangladesh to treat diabetes with or without cardiovascular and obesity-related complications. Other drug classes are prescribed as well, with no apparent contradictions.
Profiling research on PFAS in wildlife: Protocol of a systematic evidence map and bibliometric analysis
Authors: Vendl Catharina , Taylor Matthew D. , Bräunig Jennifer , Gibson Matthew J. , Hesselson Daniel , Neely G. Gregory , Lagisz Malgorzata , Nakagawa Shinichi
Published: October 2021

Per‐ and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a large group of manufactured chemicals. Since the beginning of their commercial production in the 1950s, PFAS have not only found their way into numerous industrial and commercial applications, but also into the bloodstream of much of the human population, the natural environment and wildlife. Exposure to high levels of PFAS poses a health risk for humans and animals, and may exacerbate the effects of other anthropogenic impacts faced by wildlife species. To gain a comprehensive overview of the abundance and distribution of PFAS research on wildlife species, and to better understand the drivers of this research, we will collate the available literature into a systematic evidence map and perform bibliometric analyses. The systematic mapping will present the distribution of research evidence that exists on PFAS in wildlife. The bibliometric analysis will provide an insight into the historical trends, interdisciplinarity, connectedness and the impact of the individual papers.

We will conduct a systematic literature search on Scopus, Web of Science and 10 other databases using predefined search strings. We will screen title, abstract and keywords first. We will then screen full‐text papers. Two reviewers will be involved in the screening process. We will only consider publications in English, peer‐reviewed articles, preprints and theses. We will include papers reporting concentrations of any of 34 main PFAS types (based on a previous study) in wild animals. We will assess all publications included in the systematic map for predetermined indicators of quality and potential study‐level biases. In addition, we will use bibliometric records from Scopus to perform impact and network analyses. We will present the results using a narrative summary, tables and colour‐coded maps, bar and network plots. Results and associated database will be available on a dedicated freely accessible website.

This study will provide critical insight into the gaps and clusters of the literature with regard to the PFAS concentrations in wildlife. Our study will inform and direct future research efforts to fill the gaps revealed.
Artificial Spider Silk Based Programmable Woven Textile for Efficient Wound Management
Authors: Cheng Cheng , Qiu Yumeng , Tang Shimeng , Lin Baoyang , Guo Maoze , Gao Bingbing , He Bingfang
Published: October 2021

Trauma often causes great damage to the human body's skin and soft tissues, and results in severe fractures. Though the regeneration of wound tissue and the sensing of wound secretions have been studied extensively, wound therapy remains challenging. Herein, an intelligent artificial spider silk protein (spidroin) composite programmable woven textile (i‐SPT) with high tensile properties is developed, which possesses biochemical sensing abilities and air permeability as well as motion monitoring capabilities for wound management. The patterned microfluidic channels on i‐SPT allow liquids to flow spontaneously through the channels, and the pH‐responsive photonic crystals (PC) enables the i‐SPT for sensitive hydrogen ion concentration sensing in wound area, meanwhile, the highly integrated microelectronic circuit on i‐SPT endowed high sensitivity for motion monitoring. The capability of i‐SPT in promoting wound healing has been illustrated by the treatment of the full skin wounds of diabetic mouse models. Thus, i‐SPT provides a novel and effective solution for wound management.
Engineered Cell Membrane‐Derived Nanoparticles in Immune Modulation
Authors: Yang Yixiao , Wang Kai , Pan Yuanwei , Rao Lang , Luo Gaoxing
Published: October 2021

Immune modulation is one of the most effective approaches in the therapy of complex diseases, including public health emergency. However, most immune therapeutics such as drugs, vaccines, and cellular therapy suffer from the limitations of poor efficacy and adverse side effects. Fortunately, cell membrane‐derived nanoparticles (CMDNs) have superior compatibility with other therapeutics and offer new opportunities to push the limits of current treatments in immune modulation. As the interface between cells and outer surroundings, cell membrane contains components which instruct intercellular communication and the plasticity of cytomembrane has significantly potentiated CMDNs to leverage our immune system. Therefore, cell membranes employed in immunomodulatory CMDNs have gradually shifted from natural to engineered. In this review, unique properties of immunomodulatory CMDNs and engineering strategies of emerging CMDNs for immune modulation, with an emphasis on the design logic are summarized. Further, this review points out some pressing problems to be solved during clinical translation and put forward some suggestions on the prospect of immunoregulatory CMDNs. It is anticipated that this review can provide new insights on the design of immunoregulatory CMDNs and expand their potentiation in the precise control of the dysregulated immune system.
Effects of contract farming on diets and nutrition in Ghana
Authors: Debela Bethelhem Legesse , Ruml Anette , Qaim Matin
Published: October 2021

Contract farming gained importance in many developing countries. While effects of contracting on smallholder farmers' incomes were analyzed in previous studies, diet and nutrition effects are not yet well understood. Here, we examine the effects of contract farming on dietary diversity and child anthropometrics, using survey data from the palm oil sector in Ghana. Contracting improves smallholder nutrition, but the effects vary by contract type. We distinguish between marketing contracts and resource‐providing contracts that affect household labor use and gender roles differently. For both contract types, contracting female farmers has larger positive child nutrition effects than contracting male farmers.
Deep sequencing across multiple host species tests pine‐endophyte specificity
Authors: Sarver Jake , Schultz Ella , Apigo Austen , Gernandt David S. , Salas‐Lizana Rodolfo , Oono Ryoko
Published: October 2021

Premise

Foliar fungal endophytes vary in their distributions across landscapes or plant host taxa, indicative of specialized ecologies and host specific adaptations. Accounts of specialization, however, depend on the taxonomic breadth and geographic range of the host plants included in each study. A broad region‐scale study or deep sampling of diverse potential host species still remains relatively rare but is becoming increasingly possible with high‐throughput sequencing.

Methods

Amplicon sequencing was used to rapidly identify the fungal endophytic community among six pine (Pinus, Pinaceae) species co‐occurring across northeastern United States and to test for site and host specialization. We focused on the endophytic genus Lophodermium (Rhytismataceae), whose species members are thought to specialize on different pine species, to test if amplicon sequencing could rapidly verify previously implied or discover new patterns of host specificity.

Results

While amplicon sequencing could analyze more samples at greater depths and recover greater numbers of unique Lophodermium taxa than when endophyte communities were surveyed with traditional culturing methods, patterns of specialization were not better supported. This may be because amplicon sequencing can indiscriminately capture non‐host specific organisms found incidentally from plant tissues or because we have overestimated host‐specificity in the past with biased culturing techniques.

Conclusions

Amplicon sequencing can quickly identify patterns of host specificity by allowing large‐scale surveys but has limitations in quantifying the level of intimacy of these relationships.
Photoschaltbare Stickstoff‐Superbasen: Mit Licht Kohlenstoffdioxid reversibel fixieren
Authors: Wilm Lukas F. B. , Das Mowpriya , Janssen‐Müller Daniel , Mück‐Lichtenfeld Christian , Glorius Frank , Dielmann Fabian
Published: October 2021

Die Nutzung von Licht als externem Stimulus zur Veränderung der Reaktivität von Lewis‐Basen ist ein faszinierendes Instrument zur Steuerung chemischer Reaktionen. Reversible Photoreaktionen, die mit ausgeprägten Reaktivitätsänderungen einhergehen, sind in dieser Hinsicht besonders wertvoll. Wir berichten hier über die ersten photoschaltbaren Stickstoff‐Superbasen auf der Basis von Guanidinen, die mit einer photochromen Dithienylethen‐Einheit ausgestattet sind. Anhand mehrerer Cyclen wird demonstriert, dass die resultierenden N‐heterocyclischen Imine (NHIs) eine reversible, nahezu quantitative elektrocyclische Isomerisierung durchlaufen, wenn sie nacheinander UV‐ und sichtbarer Strahlung ausgesetzt werden. Der Wechsel zwischen dem ringgeöffneten und dem ringgeschlossenen Zustand geht mit erheblichen pKa‐Verschiebungen der NHIs um bis zu 8.7 Einheiten einher. Da nur die ringgeschlossenen Isomere ausreichend basisch sind, um CO2 über die Bildung von zwitterionischen Lewis‐Basen‐Addukten zu aktivieren, ermöglicht der Wechsel zwischen den beiden isomeren Zuständen die lichtgesteuerte Fixierung und Freisetzung von CO2.
Photoswitchable Nitrogen Superbases: Using Light for Reversible Carbon Dioxide Capture
Authors: Wilm Lukas F. B. , Das Mowpriya , Janssen‐Müller Daniel , Mück‐Lichtenfeld Christian , Glorius Frank , Dielmann Fabian
Published: October 2021

Using light as an external stimulus to alter the reactivity of Lewis bases is an intriguing tool for controlling chemical reactions. Reversible photoreactions associated with pronounced reactivity changes are particularly valuable in this regard. We herein report the first photoswitchable nitrogen superbases based on guanidines equipped with a photochromic dithienylethene unit. The resulting N‐heterocyclic imines (NHIs) undergo reversible, near quantitative electrocyclic isomerization upon successive exposure to UV and visible irradiation, as demonstrated over multiple cycles. Switching between the ring‐opened and ring‐closed states is accompanied by substantial pKa shifts of the NHIs by up to 8.7 units. Since only the ring‐closed isomers are sufficiently basic to activate CO2 via the formation of zwitterionic Lewis base adducts, cycling between the two isomeric states enables the light‐controlled capture and release of CO2.
Developmental origins of the crocodylian skull table and platyrostral face
Authors: Morris Zachary S. , Vliet Kent A. , Abzhanov Arhat , Pierce Stephanie E.
Published: October 2021

The dorsoventrally flattened skull typifies extant Crocodylia perhaps more than any other anatomical feature and is generally considered an adaptation for semi‐aquatic feeding. Although the evolutionary origins of caniofacial flattening have been extensively studied, the developmental origins have yet to be explored. To understand how the skull table and platyrostral snout develop, we quantified embryonic development and post‐hatching growth (ontogeny) of the crocodylian skull in lateral view using geometric morphometrics. Our dataset (n = 103) includes all but one extant genus and all of the major ecomorphs, including the extremely slender‐snouted Gavialis and Tomistoma. Our analysis reveals that the embryonic development of the flattened skull is remarkably similar across ecomorphs, including the presence of a conserved initial embryonic skull shape, similar to prior analysis of dorsal snout shape. Although differences during posthatching ontogeny are recovered among ecomorphs, embryonic patterns are not distinct, revealing an important shift in developmental rate near hatching. In particular, the flattened skull table is achieved by the end of embryonic development with no changes after hatching. Further, the rotation of skull roof and facial bones during development is critical for the stereotypical flatness of the crocodylian skull. Our results suggest selection on hatchling performance and constraints on embryonic skull shape may have been important in this pattern of developmental conservation. The appearance of aspects of cranial flatness among Jurassic stem crocodylians suggests key aspects of these cranial developmental patterns may have been conserved for over 200 million years.
Modeling bioaffinity‐based targeted delivery of antimicrobials to Escherichia coli biofilms using yeast microparticles. Part I: Model development and numerical simulation
Authors: Yi Jiyoon , Huang Kang , Nitin Nitin
Published: October 2021

Biofilms are potential reservoirs for pathogenic microbes leading to a significant challenge for food safety, ecosystems, and human health. Various micro‐and nanoparticles have been experimentally evaluated to improve biofilm inactivation by targeted delivery of antimicrobials. However, the role of transport processes and reaction kinetics of these delivery systems are not well understood. In this study, a mechanistic modeling approach was developed to understand the targeted delivery of chlorine to an Escherichia coli biofilm using a novel bioaffinity‐based yeast microparticle. Biofilm inactivation by this delivery system was numerically simulated as a combination of reaction kinetics and transport phenomena. Simulation results demonstrate that the targeted delivery system achieved 7 log reduction within 16.2 min, while the equivalent level of conventional free chlorine achieved only 3.6 log reduction for the same treatment time. These numerical results matched the experimental observations in our previous study. This study illustrates the potential of a mechanistic modeling approach to improve fundamental understanding and guide the design of targeted inactivation of biofilms using biobased particles.
Flue‐cured tobacco holding‐ability is affected by harvest timing
Authors: Vann Matthew C. , Inman Matthew D. , Fisher Loren R.
Published: October 2021

The propensity for flue‐cured tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum L.) leaves to retain or improve their visual quality and value over an extended period of time is referred to as “holding‐ability.” General holding‐ability models that are specific to popular cultivars are not available to commercial farmers. Research was conducted at five locations from 2009 to 2014 to determine the effect of flue‐cured tobacco cultivar and upper‐stalk harvest timing to cured leaf yield, visual quality, price per pound, and economic value per acre. Two commercial cultivars, ‘K326’ and ‘NC196’, were evaluated within each location, with upper‐stalk leaf harvest schedule as follows: 7 d under‐ripe (Day 0), 3 d over‐ripe (Day 10), 13 d over‐ripe (Day 20), 23 d over‐ripe (Day 30), and 33 d over‐ripe (Day 40). The measured parameters were not influenced by cultivar selection, thus indicating that K326 and NC196 are likely to have similar ripening patterns and holding‐ability when produced under the same growing conditions. Quadratic responses for harvest timing were significant for cured leaf measurements. Yield and visual quality were greatest at Days 17 and 20, respectively. Cured leaf price continued to increase until Day 25, although maximum economic value per acre was obtained at Days 20 and 21 (US$3,041 acre–1). Increases in yield, quality, and value from Day 0 through 20 suggest that a 2‐wk delay in the harvest of upper‐stalk leaves may prove to be financially advantageous to farmers.
Size‐Induced Inversion of Selectivity in the Acylation of 1,2‐Diols
Authors: Mayr Stefanie , Zipse Hendrik
Published: October 2021

Relative rates for the Lewis base‐catalyzed acylation of aryl‐substituted 1,2‐diols with anhydrides differing in size have been determined by turnover‐limited competition experiments and absolute kinetics measurements. Depending on the structure of the anhydride reagent, the secondary hydroxyl group of the 1,2‐diol reacts faster than the primary one. This preference towards the secondary hydroxyl group is boosted in the second acylation step from the monoesters to the diester through size and additional steric effects. In absolute terms the first acylation step is found to be up to 35 times faster than the second one for the primary alcohols due to neighboring group effects.
Lithium Half‐Salen Complexes: Synthesis, Structural Characterization and Studies as Catalysts for rac‐Lactide Ring‐Opening Polymerization
Authors: Zhou Yali , Nichol Gary S. , Garden Jennifer A.
Published: October 2021

Seven lithium complexes supported by sterically and electronically diverse phenoxyimine ligands were synthesized and characterized by X‐ray diffraction, NMR spectroscopy and elemental microanalysis. These complexes show high activity (kobs ≤7.43×10−2 s−1) for rac‐lactide ring‐opening polymerization (ROP) in the presence of co‐initiator benzyl alcohol (BnOH), with the exception of Li4 which features an unusual polymeric ladder structure. Overall, the catalyst activity correlates to the aggregation state; the catalysts with low aggregation states display increased propagation rates attributed to improved metal accessibility and kinetic mobility. The nature of the ligand substituents and solvent influence the catalyst aggregation in both the solid‐ and solution‐state. While the lithium complexes can initiate rac‐lactide ROP without BnOH, the addition of this co‐initiator significantly increases the polymerization rate by switching the mechanism from a coordination‐insertion to an activated monomer pathway, changing the resultant poly(lactic acid) architecture from cyclic to linear.
The incidence of elder abuse under East Asian cultural background: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Wang Zhuzhu , Zhu Rui , Lai Xiaolan , Chen Wencong , Zhuang Jiayuan
Published: October 2021

Objective

Elder abuse (EA) is a critical social, health, and economic issue worldwide. To date, there is limited information on EA in certain similar culture‐specific subpopulations, especially in East Asia. This study aims to summarize EA incidence in East Asia through a systematic review and meta‐analysis and identify its variations and heterogeneity in the incidence estimates.

Methods/Design

The study followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta‐Analyses protocol. Systematic review registration number PROSPERO CRD42020197131. A systematic literature search was performed to identify relevant articles published before July 5th, 2020, from six electronic databases. Two reviewers screened for relevance of the studies against eligible criteria and assessed the bias of the included studies independently. A random‐effect model was adopted to estimate the incidence of EA, followed by subgroup analyses and multi meta‐regression. Sensitivity and publication bias tests were performed to verify the robustness of the meta‐analysis by Stata version 15.1.

Results

Twelve eligible studies were included in the meta‐analysis, which involved 79,395 subjects from 3 East Asian countries (China, Japan, and South Korea) ranging from 2004 to 2020. The overall incidence of EA was 78.33 per 1000 person‐year (95% CI: 39.12–156.87) with high between‐study variability (χ2 = 15,568, d.f. = 11, p<0.001; I2 = 99.9%). The sampling method, sample size, scope, instrument, data collection method, income classification, types of participants, and urbanity are all the sources of heterogeneity, which can explain nearly 100% of the variance between studies.

Conclusions

The incidence of EA in this study is not as high as the global level. It may be furtherly underestimated in East Asia due to cultural norms. It is imperative to develop a culture‐tailored EA assessment instrument to evaluate potential victims. Future studies should also identify more effective educational programs to raise the public's awareness and promote recognition ability.