bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Overexpression screen of interferon-stimulated genes identifies RARRES3 as a restrictor of Toxoplasma gondii infection
Authors: Rinkenberger Nicholas , Abrams Michael E , Matta Sumit K , Schoggins John W , Alto Neal M , Sibley L David
Published: December 2021

Toxoplasma gondiiis an important human pathogen infecting an estimated one in three people worldwide. The cytokine interferon gamma (IFNγ) is induced during infection and is critical for restrictingT. gondiigrowth in human cells. Growth restriction is presumed to be due to the induction of interferon-stimulated genes (ISGs) that are upregulated to protect the host from infection. Although there are hundreds of ISGs induced by IFNγ, their individual roles in restricting parasite growth in human cells remain somewhat elusive. To address this deficiency, we screened a library of 414 IFNγ induced ISGs to identify factors that impactT. gondiiinfection in human cells. In addition to IRF1, which likely acts through the induction of numerous downstream genes, we identified RARRES3 as a single factor that restrictsT. gondiiinfection by inducing premature egress of the parasite in multiple human cell lines. Overall, while we successfully identified a novel IFNγ induced factor restrictingT. gondiiinfection, the limited number of ISGs capable of restrictingT. gondiiinfection when individually expressed suggests that IFNγ-mediated immunity toT. gondiiinfection is a complex, multifactorial process.
Molecular pathology of the R117H cystic fibrosis mutation is explained by loss of a hydrogen bond
Authors: Simon Márton A , Csanády László
Published: December 2021

The phosphorylation-activated anion channel cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) is gated by an ATP hydrolysis cycle at its two cytosolic nucleotide-binding domains, and is essential for epithelial salt-water transport. A large number of CFTR mutations cause cystic fibrosis. Since recent breakthrough in targeted pharmacotherapy, CFTR mutants with impaired gating are candidates for stimulation by potentiator drugs. Thus, understanding the molecular pathology of individual mutations has become important. The relatively common R117H mutation affects an extracellular loop, but nevertheless causes a strong gating defect. Here, we identify a hydrogen bond between the side chain of arginine 117 and the backbone carbonyl group of glutamate 1124 in the cryo-electronmicroscopic structure of phosphorylated, ATP-bound CFTR. We address the functional relevance of that interaction for CFTR gating using macroscopic and microscopic inside-out patch-clamp recordings. Employing thermodynamic double-mutant cycles, we systematically track gating-state-dependent changes in the strength of the R117-E1124 interaction. We find that the H-bond is formed only in the open state, but neither in the short-lived ‘flickery’ nor in the long-lived ‘interburst’ closed state. Loss of this H-bond explains the strong gating phenotype of the R117H mutant, including robustly shortened burst durations and strongly reduced intraburst open probability. The findings may help targeted potentiator design.
Frameworks for developing an Agro-Prosumer Community Group platform
Authors: Jain Pratima , Potdar Vidyasagr
Published: December 2021

Background

The involvement of prosumers in the form of agricultural community groups has been acknowledged, and interest in it is increasing due to local food demand and quality of food. How to create a prosumer group? The definition of agro-prosumers and analysis of their behaviour, engaging new members to the existing groups, managing members and their goals are important factors to consider. Hence, to overcome this barrier and to improve the participation of prosumers, in this paper three key frameworks are presented to develop an Agro-Prosumer Community Group (APCGs) platform.

Methods

A conceptual process that consist of strict multiple stages i.e., requirement analysis, design logic, theoretical fundamentals, implementation of prototype and verification, is used to build the frameworks for APCG. Different methods and approaches are used to design and develop framework’s prototype. For instance, clustering algorithms are used to define and group agro-prosumer concept, an approach is developed that evaluates real-time production behaviour of new prosumers while engaging them to APCG. Finally, the goal-ranking techniques i.e., MCGP are used to build a goal management framework that effectively reaches a compromise between diverse goals of APCGs.

Results

Results for each framework is shown while verifying the prototype using prosumers data.

Conclusion

An Agro-Prosumer Community Group addresses three key issues relevant to the development of an agro-prosumer community-based approach to manage the prosumers in local food- and carbon-sharing networks. The key contributions are (1) APCG concept, (2) Prosumer engagement framework, and (3) Goal management framework. Thus APCG platform provides a seamless structure for carbon and produce sharing network.
Extraction behaviors of aqueous PEG impregnated resin system in terms of impregnation stability and recovery via protein impregnated resin interactions on bovine serum albumin
Authors: Abdul Aziz Nur Fazrin Husna , Abbasiliasi Sahar , Abu Zarin Mazni , Ng Hui Suan , Lan Chiwei , Tan Joo Shun
Published: December 2021

Background

Current advances in biotechnology have been looked at as alternative approaches towards the limited product recovery due to time- and cost-consuming drawbacks on the conventional purification methods. This study aimed to purify bovine serum albumin (BSA) as an exemplary target product using an aqueous impregnated resin system (AIRS). This method implies the concept of hydrophobicity of polymer that impregnated into the resins and driven by electrostatic attractions and hydrophilicity of aqueous salt solution to extract the target product.

Methods

The extraction behaviors of impregnation in terms of stability and adsorption kinetics via protein-aqueous polymer impregnated resin were studied. Impregnation stability was determined by the leaching factor of polyethylene glycol (PEG). The major factors such as PEG molecular weights and concentration, pH of aqueous salt solution, extraction methods (sonication and agitation) and types of adsorbent material and concentration of aqueous salt phase influencing on partitioning of biomolecule were also investigated.

Results

For impregnation stability, the leaching factor for Amberlite XAD4 did not exceed 1%. The scanning electron microscopy (SEM) image analysis of Amberlite XAD4 attributes the structural changes with impregnation of resins. For adsorption kinetics, Freundlich adsorption isotherm with the highest R2 value (0.95) gives an indication of favorable adsorption process. Performance of AIRS impregnated with 40% (w/w) of PEG 2000 was found better than aqueous-two phase system (ATPS) by yielding the highest recovery of BSA (53.72%). The outcomes of this study propound the scope for the application of AIRS in purification of biomolecules.
A retrospective study assessing the factors associated with visual outcome in retinal vein occlusion patients after anti-VEGF therapy
Authors: Liu Xiaoran , Xie Chi , Wang Yun , Xu Yue , Zhu Shaojin , Fang Yan
Published: December 2021

Background

Retinal vein occlusion (RVO) is one of the most frequent retinal vascular diseases. In this study, we aimed to investigate the predictive factors of visual outcome for RVO patients who underwent anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) therapy.

Methods

RVO patients who underwent anti-VEGF treatment were recruited in this study from January 2018 to June 2020. Clinical data and optical coherence tomography (OCT) parameters were retrospectively reviewed. Best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) was examined at baseline and after anti-VEGF therapy. Predictive factors associated with visual outcome were assessed by logistic regression model. Treatment-related adverse events were also recorded.

Results

The average logMAR BCVA was 0.91 at baseline and 0.70 at final examination (P = 0.003). Among 75 patients, 41 experienced visual improvement were categorized as group A, the remaining 34 patients without improved vision were categorized as group B. Patients in group A demonstrated better visual outcomes, including decreased logMAR BCVA (average logMAR BCVA: 0.53 in group A vs. 0.91 in group B, P < 0.001) and central retinal thickness (CRT) (average CRT: 230.88 µm in group A vs. 404.97 µm in group B, P < 0.001) after anti-VEGF treatment. Multivariable analysis showed that injection frequency (odds ratio [OR], 2.623; 95% confidence interval [CI], [1.282–5.366]), hypertension (odds ratio [OR], 0.189; 95% CI [0.044–0.811]), hyperlipemia (odds ratio [OR], 0.195; 95% CI [0.040–0.941]) and external limiting membrane (ELM) disruption (odds ratio [OR], 0.148; 95% CI [0.032–0.691]) were all significantly associated with the visual outcome of RVO patients who underwent anti-VEGF treatment. In general, anti-VEGF therapy was feasible for all RVO patients, though the response to anti-VEGF was suboptimal in certain patients. Prognostic factors including injection frequency, hypertension, hyperlipemia and ELM disruption may all be useful to provide predictive information of visual outcome of RVO patients in response to anti-VEGF treatment.
As Dificuldades de Percurso das Mulheres Empreendedoras
Authors: Bandeira Larissa Lima , Mesquita Rafael Fernandes de , Araújo Maria Kélvia Ferreira de , Matos Fátima Regina Ney
Published: December 2021

O aumento no número de empresas criadas por mulheres vem ganhando destaque nos últimos anos. De acordo com o Global Entrepreneurship Monitor, 50,7% das mulheres concordaram que o medo de fracassar não as impediria de começar um novo negócio. Mas não é só o medo que deve ser enfrentado por elas. Outras dificuldades para a atividade empreendedora são apontadas na literatura, como: barreiras de gênero, conflito família e trabalho, financeiras, de apoio familiar, de gerência de negócio, disponibilidade de tempo e qualificação. Este artigo objetivou analisar as dificuldades enfrentadas pelas mulheres no desenvolvimento empreendedor na cidade de Campo Maior - PI. Optou-se por utilizar uma abordagem qualitativa e de cunho descritivo. As mulheres pesquisadas são jovens com idade entre 22 e 34 anos, com formação concluída ou em cursos de graduação em outras áreas, que não a de gestão, que resolveram empreender pela percepção de oportunidade. A realidade empreendedora das mulheres na cidade se aproxima da caracterização sintetizada a partir da leitura, à exceção da captação de recursos financeiros que não aparentou ser influenciada por barreiras de gênero.
Governança corporativa em empresas familiares: impacto dos aspectos socioemocionais em uma empresa da área de saúde
Authors: Lima Gouveia Verônica Andréa , Pimentel Duarte da Fonseca Ana Carolina
Published: December 2021

A governança corporativa tem como objetivo mitigar conflitos e alinhar interesses. Na empresa familiar, este desafio é maior devido às inter-relações entre família, propriedade e gestão. Este estudo tem como objetivo compreender como os aspectos socioemocionais impactam os mecanismos de governança corporativa em empresas familiares. Com base na Teoria da Riqueza Socioemocional, realizou-se uma pesquisa descritiva, com abordagem qualitativa, através de entrevistas em profundidade em uma empresa familiar da área de saúde, voltada para o setor de pediatria, e presente no mercado há 59 anos. Os resultados evidenciaram que os mecanismos de governança corporativa sofreram impacto dos aspectos socioemocionais presentes na empresa familiar pesquisada, o que faz com que se diferenciem dos mecanismos de governança usualmente descritos na literatura. Este estudo contribuiu para a literatura sobre governança corporativa ao constatar sua baixa efetividade junto às empresas familiares, tendo em vista suas peculiaridades. Neste sentido, a literatura sobre governança corporativa deveria incorporar os aspectos socioemocionais ao seu arcabouço conceitual para que esta deixasse de ser inócua às empresas familiares, passando a contribuir efetivamente com a gestão e com a continuidade deste tipo de organização tão relevante, especialmente no Brasil.
Fatores complicantes ao desenvolvimento do processo empreendedor em empresas familiares em Rondon do Pará
Authors: Santos Roseane Diniz dos , Fortes Gustavo Passos , Siani Sérgio Ricardo , Machado Rogério Ruas
Published: December 2021

O empreendedorismo é um processo que possui um importante papel para a economia e cujo estudo vem ganhando destaque especialmente no âmbito dos estudos sobre empresas familiares. No Brasil vem aumentando significativamente o número de pessoas que se lançam no mercado com ideias criativas e de sucesso. Essa, no entanto não é uma tarefa fácil, uma vez que o processo empreendedor é influenciado por fatores individuais, intrapessoais e sociais. Exatamente por não ser uma tarefa fácil é que surge o questionamento que norteia este trabalho: Quais são os fatores complicadores do empreendedorismo ao processo de empreender em empresas familiares de Rondon do Pará? Diante desse questionamento o presente estudo tem por objetivo descrever os fatores que dificultam o processo empreendedor nas empresas familiares em Rondon do Pará-PA. Foi realizada um estudo de natureza qualitativa, onde realizou-se o método de estudo de casos múltiplos e foram realizadas entrevistas em quatro empresas independentes do setor varejista na cidade de Rondon do Pará-PA. A pesquisa analisou três categorias: identificação da oportunidade, planejamento e plano de negócio, e obtenção de recursos para se começar o empreendimento. Os resultados apontam as características próprias do comportamento empreendedor desses empreendedores de empresas familiares: gosto pelo segmento determinado pela família, bons relacionamentos familiares, comprometimento com os conjugues e familiares, informações e aprendizados adquiridos ao longo da vida na atuação de negócios da família. Por outro lado, a independência é o principal elemento complicante ao processo empreendedor.
Public Education Funding and Economic Growth IN Nigeria; ARDL-VECM and Causal Inference Approach
Authors: Iheanacho Eugene , Nwaogwugwu Chuks
Published: December 2021

Considering the enormous impact of poor standard of educational system in Nigeria over the years, the study investigated the effects of public education funding on economic growth in Nigeria from 1985 to 2019. The paper used secondary data sourced from both Central Bank of Nigeria Statistical Bulletin and World Bank’s Development Indicators 2019. The paper employed Auto-Regressive Distributed Lag co-integration, Error correction mechanism and granger-causality tests as technique for data analysis. The ARDL bound test co-integration results revealed that RRETE, RCETE and Inflation have positive relationship with Economic growth. However, RETE, SEDU and PRI have indirect influence on Economic growth in Nigeria. Statistically, only RRETE has a long run causal effect on economic growth. ARDL Error Correction Regression output showed that RETE and RCETE are significant at 10% level while PRI is significant at 5% level this indicates the existence of short run causal relationship with the establishment of ECM long run equilibrium adjustment speed. The causal results revealed unidirectional inference between SEDU and RETE, PRI and RETE, PRI and RRETE with no feedback effect. Therefore, the study recommended educational funding targeted at secondary and primary education system in order to acquire productive skills and knowledge to stimulate economic growth and development in Nigeria. There is need to meet the UNESCO funding ratio for both recurrent and capital expenditure on education sector.
Plastic Pollutions in Aquatic Environment- A Review
Authors: Mohammed Y. M. , Hadizat M. , Umar M. A. , Ibrahim Y. , Mohammed H. , Ibrahim I. M. , Muhammad A. S. , Umar Y. , Kanki H.
Published: December 2021

Plastic pollution in aquatic ecosystems is a growing environmental concern, as it has the potential to harm ecology, imperil aquatic organisms and cost ecological damage. Although rivers and other freshwater environments are known to play an important role in carrying land-based plastic trash to the world's seas, riverine ecosystems are also directly impacted by plastic pollution. A detailed understanding of the origin, movement, fate, and effects of riverine plastic waste is critical for better quantifying worldwide plastic pollution transport and effectively reducing sources and dangers. In this review, we emphasize the current scientific state of plastic debris in rivers, as well as the existing knowledge gaps, providing a basic overview of plastics and the types of polymers commonly found in rivers and the threat they bring to aquatic ecosystems. We also go through the origins and fates of riverine plastics, as well as the mechanisms and factors that affect plastic debris transit and spatiotemporal variation. We give an overview of riverine plastic transport monitoring and modeling activities, as well as examples of typical values from throughout the world. Finally, we discuss what the future holds for riverine plastic research.
Status of Public Primary Schools: Safety, Health Service Provision and Environmental Health Facilities in Sokoto Metropolis, Northwestern Nigeria
Authors: Abubakar Auwal Usman , Raji Ismail Abdullateef
Published: December 2021

Background: Provision of security, health services and environmental health facilities in schools is crucial in achieving the overall goals of the School Health Programme (SHP) because of their implications in all the areas of school health and plays an important role in the safety of school community and in retention and learning outcomes of students. We aimed to determine the status of public primary schools with respect to safety, health service provision and environmental health facilities in Sokoto metropolis, Northwestern Nigeria.

Methods: We conducted a cross sectional descriptive study among 40 public primary schools by multistage sampling technique. We collected data with an observation checklist using an electronic Open Data Kit (ODK) and analysed for descriptive statistics using SPSS version 23.

Results: The majority of schools had no security fence 21 (52.5%). Security/ safety teams were present in about a third 15 (37.5%) of the schools. None of the schools had a fire alarm. However, fire extinguisher was available in only 3 (7.5%) of the schools. Health room or sick bay 16 (40.0%) and health register 14 (35.0%) were available in less than half of the schools. Health personnel 3 (7.5%) and school ambulance or school bus 3 (7.5%) were available in only a few schools. First aid box was available in most, 38 (95.0%) of the schools. However, less than half, 17 (40.0%) of the schools had Iodine in their first aid boxes. Presence of handwashing facilities with soap was observed in only 3 (7.5%) of schools. All the schools use open dumping as means of refuse disposal; however, dustbin for refuse collection in classes was observed only in about a third, 15 (37.5%) of the schools. Traditional pit latrine was the most predominant toilet type 27 (67.5%) in schools.

Conclusion: Resources concerning safety, health service provision and environmental health facilities were found to be grossly inadequate in most of the schools observed. Government agencies involved in school administration should collaborate with other stakeholder’s in ensuring the provision of adequate resources for school health program.
Sudden Cardiac Death
Authors: Elsaka Omar
Published: December 2021

Background: Sudden cardiac death (SCD) remains a major open clinical and public health problem, with an estimated 300,000 deaths per year in the United States. The possibility of identifying potential SCD victims is limited by the large size of the large number of SCD victims and the apparent time-dependent risk of sudden death. The latter refers to the tendency of SCDs to detect other cardiovascular events during the most dangerous period of 6–18 months following a major cardiovascular event and the risk of subsequent collapse. The combination of time and lake size provides the basis for future research to find more vulnerable people. Pathologically, SCD can be seen as an interaction between some electrophysiological events that causes abnormalities in cardiac structure, temporal dysfunction, and malignant arrhythmias. Structural deformities represent an anatomical matrix of chronic risk and include the effects of electrophysiological anatomical abnormalities such as coronary artery disease, left ventricular hypertrophy, myopathic ventricles, and bypass leaflets in the myocardium.

Conclusion: Macroscopic cardiac features are common in about one-third of young SCD victims. However, in 79% of them, histological studies reveal hidden pathological features such as local myocarditis, heart disease and motor system disorders. A total of 16 (6%) victims had no evidence of systemic heart disease and the mechanism of SCD was not described.
Erythrocytic Antioxidant Enzymes, Plasma Malondialdehyde and Haemoglobin Levels in Plasmodium Falciparum Infected Malaria Patients in Lagos, Nigeria
Authors: Ozojiofor Ugochukwu Okechukwu , Olawale Paul Gbenga , Kereakede Ebipade , Hassan Abba Umar , Onuh Kingsley , Oyong Ada Imelda , David Kelechi Chigbu
Published: December 2021

This study investigated the effect of malaria parasitaemia on Plasmodium falciparum infected human erythrocytes oxidative stress biomarkers and haemoglobin levels. Seventy (70) human subjects of fifty (50) P. falciparum positive and twenty (20) control subjects between the ages of 10-60 years were selected for this study. Rapid Diagnostic Test (RDT) and microscopy were used to identify P. falciparum. The samples were matched based on age, sex and level of parasitaemia. Samples of blood were collected for the determination of P. falciparum, level of parasitaemia, anti-oxidant assay and haemoglobin levels; to assess the activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), catalase (CAT), malondialdehyde (MDA), total protein (PRO), reduced glutathione (GSH), haemoglobin and Parasite density. Haemoglobin level was determined using a Coulter A-T Pierce haematology analyzer (Beckman Coulter, Inc. Fullerton, CA, USA). This study showed that the mean level of PRO, CAT, MDA and SOD was significantly higher among the P. falciparum positive patients to those in the control while GPx level was lower, also, the mean level of HGB was significantly lower in the P. falciparum positive patients to those in the control. MDA, SOD, GSH and PRO level were higher among age group (10-20) in the P. falciparum infected patients and lower in the control subjects when compared to other age groups. MDA, SOD and PRO level were higher in the males than the females in both the malaria positive and controls. This study indicates that high parasitaemic patients are at greater risk of anaemia and oxidative stress compared to low parasitaemic ones.
A Study to Assess the Knowledge of Elderly on Laughter Therapy in Selected Areas of Madhya Pradesh
Authors: Jacob Bincy , Linson C. C.
Published: December 2021

The purpose of this study was to examine the elderly's understanding about laughing therapy in Madhya Pradesh's designated locations. The sample of 30 older persons was chosen using a non-probability handy sampling approach. The older people's knowledge was assessed using a structured questionnaire. According to the data, the majority of older individuals have an average level of knowledge about laughing therapy, while 40% of samples have a bad level of information, 10% have a high level of knowledge, and none have an exceptional level of knowledge. The elderly must be educated on the benefits of laughing therapy in everyday life.
Sarcomatoid Lesions of Head and Neck Region: A Diagnostic Dilemma
Authors: Samaddar Dipankar , Chatterjee Ananjan , Abhinandan . , Kumar Deepak , Akriti .
Published: December 2021

One challenging feature of head and neck pathology is that a dizzying array of sarcomatoid lesions occurs here ranging all the way from reactive to malignant and very aggressive. This makes accurate diagnosis critical. These lesions are quite diverse with great clinical and biological heterogeneity. Some are malignant while many others are benign or simply reactive in nature. For example; at mucosal sites, a well known lesion is spindle cell carcinoma (SpCC), which are overtly malignant, and the differential diagnosis then includes a number of different malignant spindle cell lesions. However, there are several benign or even non-neoplastic lesions that can sometimes be difficult to discern from SpCC, e.g. Nodular fasciitis, Proliferative myositis, Cellular schwannoma, Benign fibrous histiocytoma, Carcino sarcoma, Sarcomatoid melanoma. Fracture callus, etc.

Aim of Study: There is a diagnostic challenge to the oral pathologists to differentiate dizzying array of sarcoma like lesions from other similar microscopic simulates ranging all the way from reactive to malignant and very aggressive. This article aims to review the sarcomatoid lesions of the head and neck region with emphasis on differential diagnosis histologically and immunohistochemicaly.
An Emergency Department Management on Acute Asthma Exacerbations in Children Younger than 12 Years
Authors: Latif Waqas , Zahoor Rehan , Khalid Maiera
Published: December 2021

Objectives: The main objective of the study is to clinically audit and analyse the acute asthma exacerbations in children younger than 12 years regarding management of emergency department.

Methods: This clinical audit was done in Bahawal Victoria Hospital, Bahawalpur during January 2020 till June 2020. We retrospectively revised all the files of children aged 0–12 years who were visited for acute asthma in the Paediatric ED of Hospital. All the patients with a diagnosis of “acute asthma,” “wheezing bronchitis,” and “bronchospasm” were included.

Results: A total of 864 patients were seen in the Emergency Department during the study. Of these, a total of 293 patients were seen for a presentation of acute asthma. As some patients had multiple visits, the 293 records represented 278 unique patients. For assessing age and gender distribution of the patients, only data from the first visit were used. Otherwise, each record was treated independently for the purpose of analyses.

Conclusion: It is concluded that acute asthma management still remains an area of medical practice that continues to have long-standing difficulties.
Adversarial Attacks for Deep Learning-Based Infrared Object Detection
Authors: Kim Hoseong , Hyun Jaeguk , Yoo Hyunjung , Kim Chunho , Jeon Hyunho
Published: December 2021

Recently, infrared object detection(IOD) has been extensively studied due to the rapid growth of deep neural networks(DNN). Adversarial attacks using imperceptible perturbation can dramatically deteriorate the performance of DNN. However, most adversarial attack works are focused on visible image recognition(VIR), and there are few methods for IOD. We propose deep learning-based adversarial attacks for IOD by expanding several state-of-the-art adversarial attacks for VIR. We effectively validate our claim through comprehensive experiments on two challenging IOD datasets, including FLIR and MSOD.
Tunable Large‐Scale Compressive Strain Sensor Based on Carbon Nanotube/Polydimethylsiloxane Foam Composites by Additive Manufacturing
Authors: Liu Chao , Le Linh , Zhang Mingshao , Ding Junjun
Published: December 2021

The compressive strain sensor is an extensively used flexible electronic device because of its capability to convert mechanical deformation to an electrical signal. However, the difficulty in tuning the performance of the strain sensor limits its further applications. Herein, the approach of fabricating a carbon nanotube (CNT)/polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) compressive strain sensor, which has both tunable mechanical and electrical performances, is presented. CNT plays the role of reinforcement due to its outstanding mechanical strength and electrical conductivity. PDMS is a widely used matrix because of its softness and nontoxicity. The material extrusion 3D printing method is used to fabricate the composites, due to its advantages of design flexibility and compatibility with liquid‐based materials. The foam microstructure formed by removing sodium chloride provides a large‐scale deformation of at least 50% compressive strain and excellent elasticity. The strain sensor works durably over 10 000 cycles, with a gauge factor (GF) of 17.4. The compressive strain sensor in detecting both large‐ and small‐scale human motions due to the tunability of CNT/PDMS composites is also tested.
3D Continuously Porous Graphene for Energy Applications
Authors: Han Jiuhui , Johnson Isaac , Chen Mingwei
Published: December 2021

Constructing bulk graphene materials with well‐reserved 2D properties is essential for device and engineering applications of atomically thick graphene. In this article, the recent progress in the fabrications and applications of sterically continuous porous graphene with designable microstructures, chemistries, and properties for energy storage and conversion are reviewed. Both template‐based and template‐free methods have been developed to synthesize the 3D continuously porous graphene, which typically has the microstructure reminiscent of pseudo‐periodic minimal surfaces. The 3D graphene can well preserve the properties of 2D graphene of being highly conductive, surface abundant, and mechanically robust, together with unique 2D electronic behaviors. Additionally, the bicontinuous porosity and large curvature offer new functionalities, such as rapid mass transport, ample open space, mechanical flexibility, and tunable electric/thermal conductivity. Particularly, the 3D curvature provides a new degree of freedom for tailoring the catalysis and transport properties of graphene. The 3D graphene with those extraordinary properties has shown great promises for a wide range of applications, especially for energy conversion and storage. This article overviews the recent advances made in addressing the challenges of developing 3D continuously porous graphene, the benefits and opportunities of the new materials for energy‐related applications, and the remaining challenges that warrant future study.
Water‐Stable Sulfide Solid Electrolyte Membranes Directly Applicable in All‐Solid‐State Batteries Enabled by Superhydrophobic Li+‐Conducting Protection Layer
Authors: Xu Jieru , Li Yongxing , Lu Pushun , Yan Wenlin , Yang Ming , Li Hong , Chen Liquan , Wu Fan
Published: December 2021

Sulfide solid electrolytes (SEs) represent one most promising technical routes to realize all‐solid‐state batteries (ASSBs) due to their high ionic conductivity and low mechanical stiffness. However, the poor air/moisture/water stability of sulfide SEs leads to completely destroyed structure/composition, reduced Li+ conductivity, and toxic H2S release, limiting their practical application in ASSBs. To solve this problem, a universal method applicable to all types of sulfide SEs is developed to realize water‐stable sulfide SE membranes, by spray coating a Li+‐conductive superhydrophobic protection layer with Li1.4Al0.4Ti1.6(PO4)3 (LATP) nanoparticles and fluorinated polysiloxane (F‐POS) via hydrolysis and condensation of tetraethyl orthosilicate and 1H,1H,2H,2H‐perfluorodecyltriethoxysilane molecules. The F‐POS@LATP coating layer exhibits excellent superhydrophobicity (water static contact angles > 160°) to resist extreme exposure (direct water jetting), because of its micro‐/nanoscale roughness and low surface energy. Moreover, ASSBs using the extreme‐condition‐exposed modified Li6PS5Cl membrane exhibit a reversible capacity of 147.3 mAh g‐1, comparable with the ASSBs using pristine sulfide membranes. The superhydrophobic Li+‐conducting layer is demonstrated to be an effective protection method for sulfide membranes so that they remain stable and functionable in extreme water exposure conditions, providing a new approach to protect all types of sulfide SEs and other air/moisture/water‐sensitive materials without sacrificing electrochemical performance.
A DNA Nanocomplex Containing Cascade DNAzymes and Promoter‐Like Zn‐Mn‐Ferrite for Combined Gene/Chemo‐dynamic Therapy
Authors: Yao Chi , Qi Hedong , Jia Xuemei , Xu Yuwei , Tong Zhaobin , Gu Zi , Yang Dayong
Published: December 2021

Sequential control of exogenous chemical events inside cells is a promising way to regulate cell functions and fate. Herein we report a DNA nanocomplex containing cascade DNAzymes and promoter‐like Zn‐Mn‐Ferrite (ZMF), achieving combined gene/chemo‐dynamic therapy. The promoter‐like ZMF decomposed in response to intratumoral glutathione to release a sufficient quantity of metal ions, thus promoting cascade DNA/RNA cleavage and free radical generation. Two kinds of DNAzymes were designed for sequential cascade enzymatic reaction, in which metal ions functioned as cofactors. The primary DNAzyme self‐cleaved the DNA chain with Zn2+ as cofactor, and produced the secondary DNAzyme; the secondary DNAzyme afterwards cleaved the EGR‐1 mRNA, and thus downregulated the expression of target EGR‐1 protein, achieving DNAzyme‐based gene therapy. Meanwhile, the released Zn2+, Mn2+ and Fe2+ induced Fenton/Fenton‐like reactions, during which free radicals were catalytically generated and efficient chemo‐dynamic therapy was achieved. In a breast cancer mouse model, the administration of DNA nanocomplex led to a significant therapeutic efficacy of tumor growth suppression.
Too Small to Succeed: State‐Level Consolidation of Water Systems
Authors: Norriss Jessica , Cunningham Maureen , DeRosa Anthony R. , Vedachalam Sridhar
Published: December 2021

Key Takeaways

US water utilities deal with significant challenges such as aging water infrastructure, climate change, staffing, and maintaining water quality.

Consolidation is an option for water systems to better meet compliance requirements and manage their water supplies.

A recent survey examined reasons for, barriers to, and alternatives to consolidation, as well as the nature of state involvement in the process.
School Counselor Educators’ Experiences Navigating Practicum and Internship During COVID‐19
Authors: Gay Jan L. , Swank Jacqueline M.
Published: December 2021

The COVID‐19 pandemic disrupted many counselor education programs. We interviewed 10 school counselor educators to explore their experiences navigating practicum and internship experiences during the pandemic. We identified five themes: (a) supporting SCITs, (b) decision‐making, (c) rethinking clinical experiences, (d) preparedness, and (e) gatekeeping. We discuss implications for student training and research.
High‐Performance Aqueous Rechargeable K/Zn Hybrid Batteries Based on Berlin Green Cathode Materials
Authors: Ni Gang , Hao Zhao , Zou Guo Yin , Cao Fu Hu , Qin Ling , Zhou Cheng Gang
Published: December 2021

Abstract: Aqueous rechargeable zinc‐based batteries with the advantages of sustainability, safety, and low cost, are suitable for large‐scale electrochemical energy storage applications. In this work, aqueous zinc‐based batteries with low defect Berlin green (FeHCF) cathode, a hybrid zinc triflate and potassium triflate electrolyte, and zinc anodes are developed. In the hybrid electrolyte, the K+ ions with the weak solvation effect and small electrostatic interaction are the dominant intercalation species in the FeHCF, resulting in the fast charge transfer process and rapid diffusion kinetics. The Zn2+ ions stay at the surface rather than penetrate into the bulk phase. Thus, the hybrid batteries deliver a high specific capacity of 169.2 mAh g−1 at 100 mA g−1, excellent rate performance with 45.7 mAh g−1 at 6 A g−1, and good long‐term cyclability with a capacity retention of 57 % over 1000 cycles at 1 A g−1. The results suggest using aqueous K/Zn hybrid electrolytes can improve the electrochemical performance of FeHCF.
Experimental Autoimmune Encephalomyelitis in the Mouse
Authors: Laaker Collin , Hsu Martin , Fabry Zsuzsanna , Miller Stephen D. , Karpus William J.
Published: December 2021

This article details the materials and methods required for both active induction and adoptive transfer of experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) in the SJL mouse strain using intact proteins or peptides from the two major myelin proteins: proteolipid protein (PLP) and myelin basic protein (MBP). Additionally, active induction of EAE in the C57BL/6 strain using myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein (MOG) peptide is also discussed. Detailed materials and methods required for the purification of both PLP and MBP are described, and a protocol for isolating CNS‐infiltrating lymphocytes in EAE mice is included. Modifications of the specified protocols may be necessary for efficient induction of active or adoptive EAE in other mouse strains. © 2021 Wiley Periodicals LLC.

This article was corrected on 26 July 2022. See the end of the full text for details.

Basic Protocol: Active induction of EAE with PLP, MBP, and MOG protein or peptide

Alternate Protocol: Adoptive induction of EAE with PLP‐, MBP‐, or MOG‐specific lymphocytes

Support Protocol 1: Purification of proteolipid protein

Support Protocol 2: Purification of myelin basic protein

Support Protocol 3: Isolation of CNS‐infiltrating lymphocytes
Engineering Ligand and Receptor Pairs with LIPSTIC to Track Cell‐Cell Interactions
Authors: Alberti Dafne , Guarniero Michelle , Maciola Agnieszka K. , Dotta Enrico , Pasqual Giulia
Published: December 2021

Interactions between different cell types are critical for a plethora of biological processes, such as the immune response. We recently developed a novel technology, called LIPSTIC (labeling of immune partnership by SorTagging intercellular contacts), that allows for identifying cells undergoing specific interactions thanks to an enzymatic labeling reaction. Our work demonstrated the use of this technology to monitor interactions between immune cells, both in vitro and in vivo, by the genetic engineering of CD40 and CD40L, an essential costimulatory axis between antigen‐presenting cells and T cells. Here we describe protocols to design novel LIPSTIC‐engineered ligand and receptor pairs, clone constructs into retroviral expression vector, perform their initial validation, and use them to measure interactions ex vivo. This information will be useful to investigators interested in exploiting the LIPSTIC technology to track their favorite immune interaction. © 2021 The Authors. Current Protocols published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.

[Correction added on May 16, 2022, after first online publication: CRUI‐CARE funding statement has been added.]

Basic Protocol 1: Design of LIPSTIC‐engineered ligand and receptor pairs

Basic Protocol 2: Cloning of LIPSTIC‐engineered ligand and receptor pairs

Basic Protocol 3: Validation of LIPSTIC‐engineered ligand and receptor pairs in 293T cells

Basic Protocol 4: Measuring interaction with LIPSTIC in immune cells ex vivo
Crowding, climate, and the case for social distancing among trees
Authors: Furniss Tucker J. , Das Adrian J. , van Mantgem Phillip J. , Stephenson Nathan L. , Lutz James A.
Published: December 2021

In an emerging era of megadisturbance, bolstering forest resilience to wildfire, insects, and drought has become a central objective in many western forests. Climate has received considerable attention as a driver of these disturbances, but few studies have examined the complexities of climate–vegetation–disturbance interactions. Current strategies for creating resilient forests often rely on retrospective approaches, seeking to impart resilience by restoring historical conditions to contemporary landscapes, but historical conditions are becoming increasingly unattainable amidst modern bioclimatic conditions. What becomes an appropriate benchmark for resilience when we have novel forests, rapidly changing climate, and unprecedented disturbance regimes? We combined two longitudinal datasets—each representing some of the most comprehensive spatially explicit, annual tree mortality data in existence—in a post‐hoc factorial design to examine the nonlinear relationships between fire, climate, forest spatial structure, and bark beetles. We found that while prefire drought elevated mortality risk, advantageous local neighborhoods could offset these effects. Surprisingly, mortality risk (Pm) was higher in crowded local neighborhoods that burned in wet years (Pm = 42%) compared with sparse neighborhoods that burned during drought (Pm = 30%). Risk of beetle attack was also increased by drought, but lower conspecific crowding impeded the otherwise positive interaction between fire and beetle attack. Antecedent fire increased drought‐related mortality over short timespans (<7 years) but reduced mortality over longer intervals. These results clarify interacting disturbance dynamics and provide a mechanistic underpinning for forest restoration strategies. Importantly, they demonstrate the potential for managed fire and silvicultural strategies to offset climate effects and bolster resilience to fire, beetles, and drought.
Tobacco product use for weight control as an eating disorder behavior: Recommendations for future clinical and public health research
Authors: Mason Tyler B. , Tackett Alayna P. , Smith Caitlin E. , Leventhal Adam M.
Published: December 2021

Tobacco product use (TPU; e.g., smoking, e‐cigarettes, other emerging products) is elevated in eating disorders (EDs), yet the phenomenology of tobacco use within EDs has not received much attention. Due to the appetite suppressant effects of tobacco products as well as the array of availability of tobacco products in hedonic flavors (e.g., gummy bear, fruit), TPU may be used for weight control, such as to suppress appetite, satisfy cravings, or for meal replacement. The purpose of this article was to outline theoretical research on TPU for weight control as a mechanism in EDs as well as key areas for future research. We discuss the conceptualization and nature of TPU for weight control and how it may be related to EDs and associated behaviors, TPU patterns and smoking for weight control in EDs, and the effectiveness of current interventions and development of novel intervention protocols for individuals with EDs who use tobacco. Overall, this article outlines novel research questions on TPU in EDs and as a weight control behavior and provides recommendations to clarify the conceptualization and role of TPU within EDs.
Marine subsidy promotes spatial and dietary niche variation in an omnivore, the Keen’s mouse (Peromyscus keeni)
Authors: Davidson Katie H. , Starzomski Brian M. , El‐Sabaawi Rana , Hocking Morgan D. , Reynolds John D. , Wickham Sara B. , Darimont Chris T.
Published: December 2021

Marine‐derived resource subsidies can generate intrapopulation variation in the behaviors and diets of terrestrial consumers. How omnivores respond, given their multiple trophic interactions, is not well understood. We sampled mice (Peromyscus keeni) and their food sources at five sites on three islands of the Central Coast of British Columbia, Canada, to test predictions regarding variation in the spatial behavior and consumption of marine‐subsidized foods among individuals. About 50% of detections (n = 27 recaptures) occurred at traps closest to shoreline (25 m), with capture frequencies declining significantly inland (up to 200 m). Stable isotope signatures (δ13C and δ15N), particularly δ15N, in plant foods, forest arthropod prey, and mouse feces were significantly enriched near shorelines compared with inland, while δ13C patterns were more variable. Bayesian isotope mixing models applied to isotope values in mouse hair indicated that over one‐third (35–37%) of diet was comprised of beach‐dwelling arthropods, a marine‐derived food source. Males were more abundant near the shoreline than females and consumed more marine‐derived prey, regardless of reproductive status or availability of other food sources. Our results identify how multiple pathways of marine nutrient transfer can subsidize terrestrial omnivores and how subsets of recipient populations can show variation in spatial and dietary response.
Dyn[n]arenes: Versatile Platforms To Study the Interplay between Covalent and Noncovalent Bonds
Authors: Vial Laurent , Perret Florent , Leclaire Julien
Published: December 2021

Dyn[n]arenes are the strict polydisulfide‐based analogues of pillar[n]arenes. Although less famous than their static homologues, these dynamic cavitands possess unique (stereo)chemical features. The disulfide bridge between monomeric units not only provides these architectures with constitutional lability but is also an additional stereogenic element. As a result, the covalent assembling process can be guided by supramolecular interactions with or without a targeted partner, enabling to decipher supramolecular at work from the synthetic stage. Not only can the size and functions be chosen on demand, but the stereochemical features can be precisely controlled by careful choice on the assembling conditions. Eventually, deciphering the interactions at work during self‐assembly opens the way toward innovative applications such as biomolecules sensing. This account describes the synergistic interplay between covalent and noncovalent bounds found in dyn[n]arenes.
Numerical simulation of the non‐Newtonian fracturing fluid influences on the fracture propagation
Authors: Wen Min , Huang Hui , Hou Zening , Wang Fei , Qiu Hao , Ma Nan , Zhou Shengtian
Published: December 2021

Hydraulic fracturing fracture propagation is the main factor affecting the fracturing effect. In view of the more diversified selection of fracturing fluid, the problem of fracture propagation in non‐Newtonian fluid fracturing is often encountered in fracturing. In this paper, the influencing factors of fracture propagation of non‐Newtonian fluid fracturing fluid are analyzed. Based on PKN model, a three‐dimensional fracture propagation model considering the rheology and filtration of fracturing fluid is established, the better fracture shape simulation results are given, and the effects of fluid properties, rock physical properties, and injection parameters on fracture propagation are analyzed in detail. The research shows that (1) in the process of fracture propagation, the fracture length and width gradually increase, and the corresponding pressure in the fracture also increases. The overall increase trend is that the growth is rapid in the initial stage of fracturing and gradually slows down in the later stage. (2) The greater the consistency coefficient and rheological index, the greater the fracture width and pressure in the fracture, and the easier it is to form wide fracture. The larger the filtration coefficient is, the weaker the fracture forming ability is, and the fracture width, length, and pressure in the fracture are reduced. (3) Rock physical properties have a certain influence on fracture propagation, Young's modulus has a great influence on fracture propagation, while Poisson's ratio has little influence on it. However, the larger the Young's modulus, the more difficult the fracture is to expand, and the smaller the corresponding fracture width. (4) The larger the pump injection rate, the larger the fracture size and the higher the pressure in the fracture. The model can provide a theoretical basis for fracturing design and fracture shape prediction.