bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
“A sea of boats”
Authors: DuLong Jessica
Published: September 2021

This chapter describes how, after both towers of the World Trade Center fell, Lower Manhattan had become an achromatic world churning with dust and paper. Desperate, ashy people pressed up against the railings along the water's edge. Though “a sea of boats” had already rallied — tugs, tenders, ferries, and more, pushing into slips and against the seawall to rescue as many as they could — more boats were needed. Now, just before 10:45 a.m., the Coast Guard formalized the rescue work already under way by officially calling for a full-scale evacuation of Lower Manhattan. At 11:02 a.m., the Coast Guard's evacuation calls were echoed by New York City's then mayor, Rudolph Giuliani. At this point, the mission grew exponentially. Now it was not only those caught in the immediate aftermath that needed transportation, but “everyone south of Canal Street.” In fact, workers were streaming out of buildings much farther north than Canal, all looking for a way home. While these people might not have been in immediate danger — though even that was unclear, given that the extent of the attacks was still unknown — they were still stranded, disoriented, and reeling.
Evaluation of exotic oat (Avena sativa L.) varieties for forage and grain yield in response to different levels of nitrogen and phosphorous
Authors: Bibi Hamida , Hameed Suleman , Iqbal Mudassar , Al-Barty Amal , Darwish Hadeer , Khan Amanullah , Anwar Shazma , Mian Ishaq Ahmad , Ali Murad , Zia Afia , Irfan Muhammad , Mussarat Maria
Published: September 2021

A field experiment was conducted during the Rabi season 2017–2018 (October–March) at the University of Agriculture, Peshawar research farm to examine the influence of different nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) levels on two different oat varieties: Australian and Ukrainian. The treatments included control and three levels of nitrogen and phosphorus at 30, 60, and 90 kg ha−1. The treatments were arranged in randomized complete block design (RCBD) and replicated three times. The findings showed that the oat varieties were significantly different from one another in yield and yield parameters. The Australian variety recorded higher emergence (49 plants m−2), days to emergence (15 days), days to flowering (122 days), days to maturity (145 days), plant height (142.7 cm), number of leaves (6.03 leaves plant−1), number of tillers (92.2 tillers m−1), biological yield (8,179.2 kg ha−1), and grain yield (3,725.6 kg ha−1) than the Ukrainian variety. Similarly, different N and P levels, the maximum days to emergence, days to flowering, and days to maturity were recorded in a control plot. The application of 105 kg N + 90 kg P ha−1was statistically similar to the application of 105 kg N + 60 kg P ha−1. Maximum emergence (60 plants m−2), number of leaves (7.0 leaves plant−1), plant height (118.6 cm), number of tillers m−1(102.6), biological yield (9,687.5 kg ha−1), and grain yield (4,416.7 kg ha−1) were determined in Australian variety. Based on the findings of this study, the Australian variety performed better in terms of yield and yield components and the application of N and P fertilizers at the rate of 105 kg N + 60 kg P ha−1produced the best results in both oat varieties.
Comparative analysis of codon usage patterns in chloroplast genomes of five Miscanthus species and related species
Authors: Sheng Jiajing , She Xuan , Liu Xiaoyu , Wang Jia , Hu Zhongli
Published: September 2021

Miscanthus is not only a perennial fiber biomass crop, but also valuable breeding resource for its low-nutrient requirements, photosynthetic efficiency and strong adaptability to environment. In the present study, the codon usage patterns of five different Miscanthus plants and other two related species were systematically analyzed. The results indicated that the cp genomes of the seven representative species were preference to A/T bases and A/T-ending codons. In addition, 21 common high-frequency codons and 4–11 optimal codons were detected in the seven chloroplast genomes. The results of ENc-plot, PR2-plot and neutrality analysis revealed the codon usage patterns of the seven chloroplast genomes are influenced by multiple factors, in which nature selection is the main influencing factor. Comparative analysis of the codon usage frequencies between the seven representative species and four model organisms suggested that Arabidopsis thaliana, Populus trichocarpa and Saccharomyces cerevisiae could be considered as preferential appropriate exogenous expression receptors. These results might not only provide important reference information for evolutionary analysis, but also shed light on the way to improve the expression efficiency of exogenous gene in transgenic research based on codon optimization.
On the Global Stability Analysis of Corona Virus Disease (COVID-19) Mathematical Model
Authors: Atokolo William , Joseph Achonu Omale , Paul Rose Veronica , Sunday Abdul , Onoja Thomas Ugbojoide
Published: September 2021

In this present work, we investigated the Global Stability Analysis of Corona virus disease model formulated by Atokolo et al in [11]. The COVID‑19 pandemic, also known as the coronavirus pandemic, is an ongoing pandemic that is ravaging the whole world. By constructing a Lyapunov function, we investigated the stability of the model Endemic Equilibrium state to be globally asymptotically stable. This results epidemiologically implies that the COVID-19 will invade the population in respective of the initial conditions (population) considered.
Overview and Checklist of Parasitoids (Hymenoptera, Braconidae and Figitidae) of Anastrepha Fruit Flies (Diptera, Tephritidae) in the Brazilian Amazon
Authors: De Sousa Maria do Socorro Miranda , Dos Santos Jhulie Emille Veloso , Edson Nava Dori , Zucchi Roberto Antonio , Adaime Ricardo
Published: September 2021

Fruit-bearing plants in the Brazilian Amazon are mainly attacked by species of Anastrepha, of which about half are endemic to the region. However, tritrophic relations (fly/plant/parasitoid) have only been established for some 25% of the species of Anastrepha in the region. At present, 11 species of hymenopterous parasitoids (Braconidae and Figitidae) have been recorded in the Brazilian Amazon. Parasitoids in general, especially those of the family Braconidae, stand out as the most effective natural enemies of fruit flies of the genus Anastrepha. Doryctobracon areolatus is the most abundant parasitoid and it is associated with the largest number of Anastrepha species in the region. Some fruiting species, for example Bellucia grossularioides (L.) Triana and Geissospermum argenteum Woodson, have been studied aiming at biological control of fruit flies, because they act as reservoirs or multipliers of fruit fly parasitoids. Although research has advanced significantly in the past 20 years, there is a shortage of studies in nearly all states in the region, due to the huge area of the Brazilian Amazon.
Sustainable Farming Practices: Knowledge and Practices of Smallholder Farmers in Bamenda Highlands, Cameroon
Authors: Kum Christian Tegha , Tening Aaron Suh , Ngwabie Martin , Tsamo Cornelius
Published: September 2021

Background: Climate change inflicts negative consequences on food production especially on smallholder farms needed to achieve food security. Sustainable farming techniques seem to be the bridge between climate change and food security.

Aims: To evaluate knowledge and practices of sustainable agriculture within smallholder farmers in the Bamenda Highlands, by identifying methods of pest and disease control, soil preservation options, and their different tillage practices, i.e., conventional versus sustainable practices.

Study Design: Using a questionnaire survey.

Place of Study: Bamenda Highlands, Cameroon.

Methodology: A sample of 175 smallholder farmers (25 from each of the seven administrative divisions) were questioned about their tillage, soil preservation, crop protection, and knowledge of sustainable farming practices. Data collected were analysed and summarised to obtain frequencies and percentages. Pearson Product Moment Correlation (PPMC) was used to test for significant relationships between the pairs of variables (age, level of formal education, sex, some tillage and soil preservation practices).

Results: Out of the 161 farmers who returned the answered questionnaire, 111(68.9%) agreed to have knowledge of sustainable farming but yet 158(98.1%) were still involved with conventional unsustainable practices such as tillage with the formation ridges, and 150(93.2%) used mineral fertilizers and pesticides. Crop rotation 102(64.2%), intercropping 110(68.3%), and legume integration 124(78.0%) were the most used sustainable farming practices. Sex (r=0.419, P=0.000), age (r=0.450, P=0.000), level of education (r=0.430, P=0.000), no till (r=0.19, P=0.016), crop rotation (r=0.158, P=0.040), and intercropping (r=0.227, P=0.045) all showed significant positive relationships with knowledge of sustainable farming at α=0.05.

Conclusions: Sufficient knowledge and capacity development on sustainable farming may decrease usage of unsustainable farming practices, hence improving the adoption of sustainable farming practices.
Salicylic Acid Alleviates Postharvest Fruit Decay of Strawberry (Fragaria x ananassa Duch.-A Review
Authors: Ali Angrej , Kumar Amit , Ganai Nazir Ahmad , Dar Khalid Rasool , Wani i Arif Hussain
Published: September 2021

Strawberry (Fragaria x ananassa Duch.) fruits are highly perishable and fruit quality decrease rapidly after harvesting, thereby it has a limited scope of long duration storage. Among several synthetic chemicals suggested for minimizing postharvest losses of fruits, Salicylic acid (SA) is a natural phenolic compound widely distributed in plants and considered as a hormone because of its regulatory role in plants. Salicylic acid has received particular attention because of its role in the modulation of the plant response to biotic and abiotic stresses. Current scientific knowledge on the salicylic acid application in postharvest management of strawberry fruits suggests that SA has a potential role in minimizing fruit decay and maintaining fruit quality. These predictors, however, need further work to validate reliability in postharvest management of strawberry fruits in a larger perspective.
Renewable Energy: Sources, Integration and Application: Review Article
Authors: Mohammed Osumanu Musah
Published: September 2021

Renewable technologies are technically viable and economically attractive; traditional energy technology receives many investment dollars. This study examines the integration of renewable energy sources using functions that associate emissions with power generation; traditional producing units can represent these emissions. The environment friendly design has become a significant concern in the first decade of the 21st century. As a result of climate change and a limited supply of traditional energy sources (fossil fuel), the world needs to take renewable energy seriously. Renewable sources of energy are derived from the energy flow that occurs naturally in a continual manner. Many people define renewability as the ability to regenerate at a rate equal to or faster than a given energy source's depletion rate. Currently, fossil fuels are used to meet most energy needs, which should be replaced in the future by cleaner energy sources, such as renewables or nuclear energy. Building integration systems aim to replace a building element with a solar panel array to boost the RES system's viability. Renewable energy sources can be used to lessen the use of fossil fuels when certain criteria are satisfied. The use of renewable energy sources in buildings has well-understood environmental and economic benefits in this study. By relying on sustainable sources of energy, we can save as much energy as feasible.
Role of Breast-Feeding in Postnatal Women
Authors: Nithya Sowmiya Sri,
Published: September 2021

To assess the attitude of breastfeeding in postnatal women. Breastfeeding is essential for the health and development of the child. It is protective against gastrointestinal and respiratory infections of the baby. Early initiation of breastfeeding, exclusive breastfeeding and introduction of complementary food in conjunction with continued breastfeeding is necessary for the sensory and cognitive development of the child. Even though the prevalence of breastfeeding is high, certain undesirable cultural practices delay initiation of breastmilk and colostrum. World Health Organization recommends the practice of exclusive breast feeding for infants up to 6 months of age and continue breast feeding up to 2 years along with weaning foods. Hence this study was conducted to follow up the breastfeeding practices of postnatal mothers and regarding its initiation and duration of exclusive breastfeeding in Sri Lakshmi Narayana Institute of Medical Sciences.
Assessing the Clinical Improvement in Patients with COVID-19 using Lopinavir-Ritonavir: A Systematic Review
Authors: Magadmi Rania M.
Published: September 2021

Aims: Globally the focus is towards finding an effective treatment for COVID-19 patients in order to suppress the spread of this pandemic disease. An antiviral combination of lopinavir-ritonavir is considered to be effective in treating COVID-19 patients. Therefore, the present study aims to assess the clinical improvements of lopinavir-ritonavir in COVID-19 patients.

Study Design: a systematic review study was conducted and articles published since December 2019 were included. The statistical analysis of quantitative data was performed using Review Manager (RevMan) to generate forest plots.

Results: The study showed that there was no significant difference in COVID-19 patients treated with lopinavir-ritonavir or in combination with anti-viral therapy or other conventional methods. Conclusion: the use of lopinavir-ritonavir resulted in greater adverse consequences among COVID-19 patients. It further recommends conducting meta-analysis studies with a greater number of studies to highlight the clinical improvement associated with the use of Lopinavir-ritonavir.
Goat’s Milk as a Potential Anti-proliferative against Colon Cancer Cell Lines
Authors: Dahlan Nurhashimah , Baharum Jamila Khayrin , Ridzwan Norhaslinda , Jumli Mimie Noratiqah , Hadi Norhayati Abd , Arshad Roslan , Baig Atif Amin , Rohin Mohd Adzim Khalili , Bakar Che Abdullah Abu , Latif Ahmad Zubaidi A.
Published: September 2021

Aim: To investigate anti-proliferative effect of fresh and pasteurized goat milk against colon cancer cell lines (HT-29, HCT-116, CT-26).

Study Design: Experimental study.

Place and Duration of Study: Central Laboratory, Tissue Culture Laboratory, Universiti Sultan Zainal Abidin, Terengganu between January 2020 and April 2020.

Methodology: Samples comprised of two types goat milk, which were fresh and pasteurized in powder form. The samples were analysed for the anti-proliferative effect by MTT assay, and IC50 value was determined. Then, cell apoptotic changes were observed by light inverted microscope by 24, 48 and 72 hours.

Results: Experimental data showed that the fresh sample produce the highest yield (9.40%) than the pasteurized sample (7.17%). The fresh sample yielded the most potent cytotoxic value (0.28 ± 0.03), followed by pasteurized sample with value IC50 0.32 ± 0.02 against HCT-116 cells. Then, the anti-proliferative effect was observed on cell apoptotic changes by reduction of cell volume, cell densed, and presence of fragmentation and apoptotic bodies at 24, 48 and 72 hours treatment.

Conclusion: In conclusion, the fresh sample of goat milk yielded the potent anti-proliferative effect than pasteurized sample.
MANIFESTAÇÕES MISÓGINAS NO HUMOR: CRIME OU REFLEXO DA LIBERDADE DE EXPRESSÃO?
Authors: Caldas Joana Selis Santos
Published: September 2021

O presente trabalho analisou, por meio da revisão bibliográfica, as manifestações misóginas no humor, buscando compreender seu status no ordenamento jurídico brasileiro, ou seja, se é revestido como crime ou ramificação da liberdade de expressão. Para tanto, foi explorada, primeiramente, a liberdade de expressão, observando seu amparo e previsão na legislação brasileira, como também seus limites jurídicos. A partir disso, foi possível identificar os crimes que ferem a honra do indivíduo, averiguando a sua colocação na hierarquia normativa e verificando as antinomias presentes na Constituição Federal. Fato, este, que levou a uma inquirição de jurisprudências que se relacionam com a temática em questão, como, a ADI n. 4451. Dessa forma, verificou-se, na jurisdição brasileira, o papel desempenhado por piadas consideradas misóginas. Tendo como base os aspectos explorados, as antinomias e a divergências nas jurisprudências examinadas, concluiu-se que não há uma resposta objetiva para a indagação, o que possibilitou depreender que cada caso deve ser analisado individualmente levando em consideração suas singularidades.
A MULHER NEGRA E O CINEMA COMERCIAL: UMA ANÁLISE SOBRE DIREITO, CORPO SOCIAL E ESTEREÓTIPOS.
Authors: Silva Ana Caroline Oliveira da
Published: September 2021

O presente trabalho consiste em uma análise da mulher negra no cinema comercial e como tais arquétipos independem de uma indústria cinematográfica específica, reproduzindo estereótipos do imaginário cultural e coletivo e exibindo séculos de opressão nas telas de cinema sobre o lugar que ocupa este corpo feminino associado a o direito ao corpo e a relação da mulher negra na condição de corpo como objeto.
EDITORIAL
Authors: Cunha Leandro Reinaldo da
Published: September 2021

Manifestação do Editor-Científico da Revista Direito e Sexualidade tratando da relevância da consideração da sexualidade nos estudos jurídicos
AUTONOMIA NOS DIREITOS REPRODUTIVOS
Authors: Rôla Quize
Published: September 2021

O presente artigo versa sobre a limitação da autonomia privada na seara dos direitos reprodutivos, especialmente para as mulheres, indivíduos vulnerados. O entendimento desse artigo é favorecer a autonomia retirando a necessidade da outorga conjugal para a esterilização discutindo o tema através da autonomia privada, dignidade da pessoa humana e questões de gênero.
A UTILIZAÇÃO DO CONTRATO DE CONVIVÊNCIA DA UNIÃO ESTÁVEL NAS RELAÇÕES DE FAMÍLIAS POLIAFETIVAS
Authors: Silva Fernanda Victória Meneses da
Published: September 2021

O presente trabalho analisa o debate sobre a utilização das escrituras públicas de união estável para registro das uniões poliafetivas no ordenamento jurídico brasileiro. O princípio da monogamia é considerado um dos pilares do instituto do casamento, todavia, existe uma grande quantidade de pessoas que não aderem a esse tipo de relacionamento, e estes indivíduos tendem a ficar à margem do direito, tendo em vista que não há instituto jurídico que defendam a forma com que escolheram viver. A utilização da escritura pública de união estável chegou a ser cogitada e utilizada em algumas situações, porém, a posição do CNJ é de que não mais sejam feitas tais escrituras, com o argumento de que há uma violação do direito na realização destes atos. Este artigo realiza um desdobramento de todos os institutos utilizados para a validação jurídica de uma família, perpassando pelo casamento, união estável, examinando a monogamia como instituto moral e debatendo as posições favoráveis e contrárias ao registro das uniões poliafetivas.
Hemin‐Doped, Ionically Crosslinked Silicone Elastomers with Peroxidase‐Like Reactivity
Authors: Gale Cody B. , Brook Michael A.
Published: September 2021

The encapsulation of hemin in polymer systems represents a powerful tool for the preparation of synthetic enzymes. Reported systems largely focus on the creation of hydrogels or microreactors that require a degree of modification to the hemin molecule itself. The straightforward synthesis of hydrophobic hemin‐aminosilicone crosslinked silicone elastomers is described with peroxidase like reactivity. Elastomers are formed from purely ionic interactions between commercial aminoalkylsilicones and native hemin, which acts as a crosslinker. Elastomers prepared from ethylene diamine‐based silicones are robust elastomers in which hemin is retained, while hemin can leach monoamine analogues into the adjacent aqueous environment. The system is easily tunable, allowing for precise control of the hemin concentration and the physical properties of the elastomer. Upon exposure to peroxide‐containing solutions, elastomers readily oxidize the substrate 3′,3′,5′,5′‐tetramethylbenzidine at the interface. Elastomers containing excess amine show greater catalytic efficiency due to the coordination of the amines to the iron center of hemin, which is known to be activating. The reaction can be followed using UV‐visible spectroscopy; rates of reaction and Michaelis–Menten parameters are derived.
Engineering of a Hollow‐Structured Cu2−XS Nano‐Homojunction Platform for Near Infrared‐Triggered Infected Wound Healing and Cancer Therapy
Authors: Gao Xiangyu , Wei Mingtian , Ma Daichuan , Yang Xuyang , Zhang Yang , Zhou Xiong , Li Limei , Deng Yi , Yang Weizhong
Published: September 2021

Infection and malignant tumors are the most common diseases in people's daily life, which seriously threaten human health. Because of the frequent and extensive administration of antibiotics and chemodrugs, the prevalence of multidrug‐resistant bacteria and tumor cells makes the conventional therapies less effective and even invalid. To overcome the repugnant dilemma, herein the authors devise and develop a hollow Cu2−XS nano‐homojunction (nano‐HJ) platform for the effective eradication of both bacteria and tumors upon tissue‐penetrable near‐infrared (NIR) light irradiation. Hyaluronan (HA) is covalently decorated onto the nano‐homojunctions (nano‐HJs) surface to enhance their biocompatibility, tumor‐targeting ability, and cutaneous wound healing capability. The decorated nano‐HJs exert robust NIR‐activatable bactericidal modality and accelerate the cutaneous regeneration of bacteria‐invaded full‐thickness wounds through the synergy of photothermal/photodynamic effects, glutathione depletion, and HA assistance. After loading anticancer drug doxorubicin in the cavity of nano‐HJs, the antitumor therapy efficacy is greatly strengthened both in vitro and in vivo by the collaborative photo‐chemotherapy. Accordingly, this work not only highlights the great promise of the Cu2−XS nano‐HJs in the treatment of bacteria‐induced contagious diseases and malignant tumors but also opens up a new research direction for the biomedical application of homojunction nanoplatforms in the future.
Efficient and Stable Quasi‐2D Perovskite Solar Cells Enabled by Thermal‐Aged Precursor Solution
Authors: Li Xing , Li Kang , Wang Boxin , Zhang Xuning , Yue Shengli , Li Yanxun , Chen Qian , Li Shilin , Yue Tong , Zhou Huiqiong , Zhang Yuan
Published: September 2021

Quasi‐2D perovskites have received wide attention in photovoltaics owing to their excellent materials robustness and merits in the device stability. However, the highest power conversion efficiency (PCE) reported on quasi‐2D perovskite solar cells (PSCs) still lags those of the 3D counterparts, mainly caused by the relatively high voltage loss. Here, a study is presented on the mitigation of voltage loss in quasi‐2D PSCs via usage of thermal‐aged precursor solutions (TAPSs). Based on the (AA)2MA4Pb5I16 (n = 5) quasi‐2D perovskite absorber with a bandgap of ≈1.60 eV, a record‐high open‐circuit voltage of 1.24 V is obtained, resulting in boosting the PCE to 18.68%. The enhanced photovoltaic performance afforded by TAPS is attributed to the thermal‐aged solution processing that triggers colloidal aggregations to reduce the nucleation sites inside the solution. As a result, formation of high‐quality perovskite films featuring compact morphology, preferential crystal orientation, and lowered trap density is allowed. Of importance, with the improved film quality, the corrosion of Ag electrode induced by ion migrations is effectively restrained, which leads to a satisfactory storage stability with <2% degradation after 1200 h under nitrogen environment without encapsulation.
Sensitive Mechanofluorochromic Carbon Dot‐Based AIEgens: Promising Reporting Components for Self‐Sensing Plastics
Authors: Ge Min , Han Shiyan , Ma Yanli , Li Jian , Liu Shouxin , Chen Zhijun , Li Shujun
Published: September 2021

Mechanofluorochromic carbon dot‐based aggregation‐induced emission luminogens (M‐CD‐AIEgens) are attracting much attention because of their many potential practical applications. However, the mechanofluorochromic response of current M‐CD‐AIEgens only occurs under high pressure, which greatly hinders their practical applications. To overcome this shortcoming, more pressure‐sensitive M‐CD‐AIEgens are now developed, which show approximately fivefold enhancement of photoluminescence quantum yield after grinding. This enhancement of photoluminescence is attributed to the weakening of π–π stacking interactions between the carbon dots, which is caused by the grinding process. To illustrate a potential application of their interesting properties, M‐CD‐AIEgens are incorporated into a poly(e‐caprolactone) matrix to prepare self‐sensing sustainable plastics, which are able to dynamically sense the external pressure distribution when subjected to strain.
Modular Assembly of Mechanoresponsive Color‐Changing Materials from Hydrogel‐Based Photonic Crystal Microspheres
Authors: Isapour Golnaz , Miller Benjamin Harvey , Kolle Mathias
Published: September 2021

Mechanoresponsive, soft, photonic materials with tunable structural coloration represent a class of materials that have potential benefits for a wide range of applications. While many lab‐scale fabrication approaches afford control over the nano‐ and microscale morphology of these materials, upscaling their manufacture remains a challenge. Herein, a scalable fabrication concept is proposed that centers on the modular assembly of color‐changing materials from microscale building blocks. The building blocks consist of hydrogel‐based spherical photonic crystals. They are formed through a water‐in‐oil emulsification of nanoscale colloidal particles suspended in the aqueous phase. Once formed, the photonic crystal microspheres are then assembled into macroscale photonic materials, such as stretchable fibers or sheets. The resulting materials respond to a mechanical deformation with a reversible, dynamic change in color. Fabricated via a scalable, modular‐assembly approach, these mechanoresponsive photonic fibers and sheets, in turn, form a valuable building block for sensing systems or visual communication in healthcare, architecture, and consumer product design.
Zirconium Nitride: Optical Properties of an Emerging Intermetallic for Plasmonic Applications
Authors: Shabani Alireza , Tsegay Korsa Matiyas , Petersen Søren , Khazaei Nezhad Mehdi , Kumar Mishra Yogendra , Adam Jost
Published: September 2021

Finding new plasmonic materials with prominent optical properties and unique physical and chemical characteristics, which are merits of traditional gold and silver, is of great interest to many applications. This work uses a series of powerful numerical methods, such as density functional theory (DFT) and electromagnetic modeling approaches, to predict the plasmonic response of a mechanically well‐known material, zirconium nitride (ZrN). DFT first delivers an electronic analysis and optical dispersion data between 1 and 8 eV, experimentally verified in the lower energy regime (), and extremely valuable for any subsequent optical modeling. Subsequent electromagnetic modeling steps, including the transfer matrix method (TMM) and Mie theory, demonstrate the excitation of surface plasmon polaritons and localized surface plasmon resonances in ZrN thin films and nanoparticles. Furthermore, the finite‐difference time‐domain (FDTD) method exhibits the excitation of distinct electric (plasmon) and magnetic (LC) resonances in a periodic array of u‐shaped ZrN split‐ring resonators (SRRs). The findings showcase an optical behavior comparable with structures made from noble metals such as gold and silver and support the introduction of ZrN as a new and appropriate candidate for plasmonic applications, specifically in technological applications where optical and mechanical properties are of simultaneous concern.
Fundamentals and Design‐Led Synthesis of Emulsion‐Templated Porous Materials for Environmental Applications
Authors: Mudassir Muhammad Ahmad , Aslam Hafiz Zohaib , Ansari Tariq Mahmood , Zhang Haifei , Hussain Irshad
Published: September 2021

Emulsion templating is at the forefront of producing a wide array of porous materials that offers interconnected porous structure, easy permeability, homogeneous flow‐through, high diffusion rates, convective mass transfer, and direct accessibility to interact with atoms/ions/molecules throughout the exterior and interior of the bulk. These interesting features together with easily available ingredients, facile preparation methods, flexible pore‐size tuning protocols, controlled surface modification strategies, good physicochemical and dimensional stability, lightweight, convenient processing and subsequent recovery, superior pollutants remediation/monitoring performance, and decent recyclability underscore the benchmark potential of the emulsion‐templated porous materials in large‐scale practical environmental applications. To this end, many research breakthroughs in emulsion templating technique witnessed by the recent achievements have been widely unfolded and currently being extensively explored to address many of the environmental challenges. Taking into account the burgeoning progress of the emulsion‐templated porous materials in the environmental field, this review article provides a conceptual overview of emulsions and emulsion templating technique, sums up the general procedures to design and fabricate many state‐of‐the‐art emulsion‐templated porous materials, and presents a critical overview of their marked momentum in adsorption, separation, disinfection, catalysis/degradation, capture, and sensing of the inorganic, organic and biological contaminants in water and air.
Electrochemical Reduction of CO2 to Alcohols: Current Understanding, Progress, and Challenges
Authors: Wang Shanwen , Kou Tianyi , Baker Sarah E. , Duoss Eric B. , Li Yat
Published: September 2021

In comparison with conventional methods, electrochemical CO2 reduction (CO2RR) represents a promising and environmentally friendly method to generate value‐added products and mitigate anthropogenic climate change. Herein, the recently reported CO2RR catalysts that show high selectivity and activity toward alcohol production are highlighted. The current understanding of reaction pathways on different catalyst surfaces for alcohol production is highlighted and strategies to enhance CO2RR catalytic performance are discussed. Finally, the views on the challenges and possible future paths for the field are shared.
Reinforcement of proton‐exchange membrane fuel cell performance through a novel flow field design with auxiliary channels and a hole array
Authors: Wang Yulin , Wang Xiaoai , Chen Gaojian , Chen Chao , Wang Xiaodong , Penga Željko , Yang Ziming , Xing Lei
Published: September 2021

A novel flow field was designed by deploying auxiliary channels inside the partially hollow ribs and drilling a series of arrayed holes on the auxiliary channels. This novel design rationally utilizes the ribs of the current collector and improves the volumetric efficiency of the parallel channels, leading to improved cell performance and homogeneity of current distribution. A three‐dimensional, two‐phase flow model was developed to analyze the influence of a variety of parameters on the oxygen and water saturation profiles, cell performance, and current uniformity. It was found that the combination of auxiliary channels and hole array provides an extra pathway for reactant transport and water removal. A reasonable optimization of the flow field geometry, for example, the hole size, the area ratio of arrayed holes and auxiliary channels, nonuniform distribution of arrayed holes, could further improve the cell performance and current uniformity at an extremely low pressure drop.
Engineering Escherichia coli to produce and secrete colicins for rapid and selective biofilm cell killing
Authors: Jin Xing , An Sungjun , Kightlinger Weston , Zhou Jiacheng , Hong Seok Hoon
Published: September 2021

Bacterial biofilms are associated with chronic infectious diseases and are highly resistant to conventional antibiotics. Antimicrobial bacteriocins are alternatives to conventional antibiotics and are characterized by unique cell‐killing mechanisms, including pore formation on cell membranes, nuclease activity, and cell wall synthesis inhibition. Here, we used cell‐free protein synthesis to rapidly evaluate the anti‐biofilm activities of colicins E1, E2, and E3. We found that E2 (with DNase activity) most effectively killed target biofilm cells (i.e., the K361 strain) while leaving nontargeted biofilms intact. We then engineered probiotic Escherichia coli microorganisms with genetic circuits to controllably synthesize and secrete colicin E2, which successfully inhibited biofilms and killed preformed indicator biofilms. Our findings suggest that colicins rapidly and selectively kill target biofilm cells in multispecies biofilms and demonstrate the potential of using microorganisms engineered to produce antimicrobial colicin proteins as live therapeutic strategies to treat biofilm‐associated infections.
Langerhans cell histiocytosis with lung involvement in isolation and multisystem disease: Staging, natural history, and comparative survival
Authors: Hazim Antonious Z. , Ruan Gordon J. , Hu Marie , Ravindran Aishwarya , Rech Karen L. , Young Jason R. , Cox Christian W. , Abeykoon Jithma P. , Scheckel Caleb , Vassallo Robert , Ryu Jay H. , Tobin W. Oliver , Koster Matthew J. , Bennani N. Nora , Shah Mithun V. , Goyal Gaurav , Go Ronald S. ,   Mayo Clinic‐University of Alabama at Birmingham Histiocytosis Working Group
Published: September 2021

Langerhans cell histiocytosis (LCH) is a histiocytic neoplasm that can involve the lungs as single system (LCH‐SSL) or multisystem disease (LCH‐MSL). The role of full‐body radiographic staging to determine whether patients have LCH‐SSL or LCH‐MSL is unclear. Long‐term outcomes of LCH‐SSL versus LCH‐MSL and multisystem without lung involvement (LCH‐MSNL) are unknown. A retrospective study of adult LCH patients seen at our center from January 2000 to 2020 was performed. In Part 1, we addressed utility of whole‐body staging imaging among those presenting with isolated pulmonary signs or symptoms. Staging was defined as fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography‐computed tomography (CT) or whole‐body CT obtained within 3 months of diagnosis. In Part 2, we examined the frequency of developing extra‐pulmonary disease over time and mortality in patients with LCH‐SSL. In Part 3, we compared the overall survival of LCH‐SSL, LCH‐MSL, and LCH‐MSNL. Part 1: 240 patients with LCH were identified. A total of 112 (47%) had pulmonary signs or symptoms at presentation. Thirty‐four (30%) underwent radiographic staging and only one showed evidence of extra‐pulmonary disease. Part 2: 108 (45%) were LCH‐SSL. Median follow‐up duration of 4.5 years (95% confidence interval [CI]: 2.9–6.0). None developed extra‐pulmonary disease. Part 3: 5‐year survival: 94% (95% CI: 84%–98%) for LCH‐SSL, 78% (95% CI: 59%–90%) for LCH‐MSL, and 75% (95% CI: 53%–89%) for LCH‐MSNL. LCH patients presenting with isolated pulmonary signs or symptoms rarely have extra‐pulmonary involvement at the time of diagnosis and generally do not develop extra‐pulmonary progression. LCH‐SSL has the best overall survival, while LCH‐MSL and LCH‐MSNL have similar clinical outcomes.
Impact of medical reimbursement revision on ambulance transport of self‐inflicted injury patients: a nationwide study in Japan
Authors: Katayama Yusuke , Kiyohara Kosuke , Kitamura Tetsuhisa , Hirose Tomoya , Ishida Kenichiro , Umemura Yutaka , Kiguchi Takeyuki , Nakao Shunichiro , Tachino Jotaro , Noda Tomohiro , Shimazu Takeshi
Published: September 2021

Aim

Self‐inflicted injury, as one reason to visit the emergency department, is an important issue in emergency medicine around the world. However, the impact of changes in social systems, such as medical reimbursement revision, on ambulance transport for self‐inflicted injury remains unclear. The aim of this study was to assess the impact of medical reimbursement revision on the emergency transport of self‐inflicted injury patients using nationwide ambulance records.

Methods

This was a retrospective observational study from April 2012 to March 2016. We analyzed nationwide ambulance records in Japan, and included self‐inflicted injury, drug poisoning, and drug overdose patients transported to hospitals by ambulance. The primary outcome of this study was age‐adjusted number of self‐inflicted injury patients transported by ambulance in each month per 1 million standard populations. To assess the impact of the medical reimbursement revision in 2014, we calculated the R2, regression coefficients and 95% confidence interval (CI) using interrupted time series analysis.

Results

This study included 148,873 patients. The R2 for the interrupted time series model was 0.821. The regression coefficient for the time trend before the medical reimbursement revision was 0.167 (95% CI, 0.090 to 0.244; p < 0.001), that for the time trend after the medical reimbursement revision was −0.226 (95% CI, −0.327 to −0.125, p < 0.001), and that of the medical reimbursement revision was −2.165 (95% CI, −3.730 to −0.601, p = 0.008).

Conclusion

In Japan, the medical reimbursement revision in April 2014 helped to decrease the number of self‐inflicted injury patients transported to hospitals by ambulance.
Synthesis of a Tridecasaccharide Lipooligosaccharide Antigen from the Opportunistic Pathogen Mycobacterium kansasii
Authors: Shen Ke , Bai Bing , Liu Yu‐Hsuan , Lowary Todd L.
Published: September 2021

The outer surfaces of mycobacteria, including the organism that causes tuberculosis, are decorated with an array of immunomodulatory glycans. Among these are lipooligosaccharides (LOSs), a class of molecules for which the function remains poorly understood. We describe the chemical synthesis of the glycan portion of a tridecasaccharide LOS from the opportunistic pathogen Mycobacterium kansasii. The target contains a number of unusual structural motifs that complicate its assembly and is the most complex mycobacterial LOS glycan to be synthesized to date when considering size and number of unique monosaccharides and glycosidic linkages. These studies not only provide a roadmap for the preparation of additional members of this family of glycans, but also provides a valuable probe for use in structure–activity relationship investigations.
Per‐ and polyfluoroalkyl substances removal with granular activated carbon and a specialty adsorbent: A case study
Authors: Najm Issam , Gallagher Brian , Vishwanath Nikhil , Blute Nicole , Gorzalski Alexander , Feffer Adam , Richardson Sarah
Published: September 2021

Removal of per‐ and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) from water sources is of significant interest as many states have established limits. Three granular activated carbons (GACs) and a clay‐based adsorbent, Fluoro‐sorb® 200 (FS200), were tested using rapid small scale column tests (RSSCTs) to compare relative performance of the media for PFAS removal. FS200 effluent was below detection for all PFAS except PFHxA at 300,000 bed volumes (BVs). The three GACs performed similarly except for PFBS and PFHxA. FS200 showed higher BVs to breakthrough, required a significantly shorter empty bed contact time, and had higher hydraulic loading rate, translating into a smaller footprint than GAC. This work provides important contributions to the water treatment literature, including RSSCT evaluation of FS200 media and media life comparison of GAC and FS200 in drinking water matrices with low PFAS and organic carbon concentrations.

Article Impact Statement

Utilities needing PFAS treatment will benefit from the testing methodology and results.
Protoplast transformation of Kluyveromyces marxianus
Authors: Lyu Yilin , Wu Pingping , Zhou Jungang , Yu Yao , Lu Hong
Published: September 2021

The dairy yeast Kluyveromyces marxianus is a promising cell factory for producing bioethanol and heterologous proteins, as well as a robust synthetic biology platform host, due to its safe status and beneficial traits, including fast growth and thermotolerance. However, the lack of high‐efficiency transformation methods hampers the fundamental research and industrial application of this yeast. Protoplast transformation is one of the most commonly used fungal transformation methods, but it yet remains unexplored in K. marxianus. Here, we established the protoplast transformation method of K. marxianus for the first time. A series of parameters on the transformation efficiency were optimized: cells were collected in the late‐log phase and treated with zymolyase for protoplasting; the transformation was performed at 0 °C with carrier DNA, CaCl2, and PEG; after transformation, protoplasts were recovered in a solid regeneration medium containing 3–4% agar and 0.8 m sorbitol. By using the optimized method, plasmids of 10, 24, and 58 kb were successfully transformed into K. marxianus. The highest efficiency reached 1.8 × 104 transformants per μg DNA, which is 18‐fold higher than the lithium acetate method. This protoplast transformation method will promote the genetic engineering of K. marxianus that requires high‐efficiency transformation or the introduction of large DNA fragments.
Reactor control system in bacterial co‐culture based on fluorescent proteins using an Arduino‐based home‐made device
Authors: Kusuda Minori , Shimizu Hiroshi , Toya Yoshihiro
Published: September 2021

Background

Co‐culture, fermentation with more than two microbial strains, is a potential flexible method for optimizing the metabolic conversion process in bio‐production. However, maintaining an ideal population throughout the fermentation process remains a challenge.

Methods and Results

In this study, we developed a proportional control system for controlling the population ratio of Escherichia coli strains to a set value during continuous co‐culture. Two E. coli strains were distinguished by expressing different fluorescent proteins, and their population ratio was determined by culture fluorescence. Furthermore, different types of amino acid auxotrophs were provided to each strain, and among these, growth was controlled by the amino acid concentrations in the feed medium. An Arduino‐based device was developed using light‐emitting diodes and cadmium sulfide light sensors for the in‐line monitoring of culture fluorescence. Two E. coli strains of methionine auxotroph green fluorescent protein (GFP) expressing (met‐GFP) strain and arginine auxotroph red fluorescent protein (RFP) expressing (arg‐RFP) strain were co‐cultured using a jar‐fermenter. The amounts of methionine and arginine in the feed medium were altered to guide the population ratio to a set value. During the continuous culture, the population ratio between the met‐GFP and arg‐RFP strains was successfully maintained at approximately the setpoint values.

Conclusion

This study demonstrated the development of a home‐made device for controlling the reactor of E. coli based on fluorescent proteins using inexpensive parts.
P300/CBP‐associated factor (PCAF)‐mediated acetylation of Fascin at lysine 471 inhibits its actin‐bundling activity and tumor metastasis in esophageal cancer
Authors: Cheng Yin‐Wei , Zeng Fa‐Min , Li Da‐Jia , Wang Shao‐Hong , He Jian‐Zhong , Guo Zhen‐Chang , Nie Ping‐Juan , Wu Zhi‐Yong , Shi Wen‐Qi , Wen Bing , Xu Xiu‐E , Liao Lian‐Di , Li Zhi‐Mao , Wu Jian‐Yi , Zhan Jun , Zhang Hong‐Quan , Chang Zhi‐Jie , Zhang Kai , Xu Li‐Yan , Li En‐Min
Published: September 2021

Background

Fascin is crucial for cancer cell filopodium formation and tumor metastasis, and is functionally regulated by post‐translational modifications. However, whether and how Fascin is regulated by acetylation remains unclear. This study explored the regulation of Fascin acetylation and its corresponding roles in filopodium formation and tumor metastasis.

Methods

Immunoprecipitation and glutathione‐S‐transferase pull‐down assays were performed to examine the interaction between Fascin and acetyltransferase P300/CBP‐associated factor (PCAF), and immunofluorescence was used to investigate their colocalization. An in vitro acetylation assay was performed to identify Fascin acetylation sites by using mass spectrometry. A specific antibody against acetylated Fascin was generated and used to detect the PCAF‐mediated Fascin acetylation in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) cells using Western blotting by overexpressing and knocking down PCAF expression. An in vitro cell migration assay was performed, and a xenograft model was established to study in vivo tumor metastasis. Live‐cell imaging and fluorescence recovery after photobleaching were used to evaluate the function and dynamics of acetylated Fascin in filopodium formation. The clinical significance of acetylated Fascin and PCAF in ESCC was evaluated using immunohistochemistry.

Results

Fascin directly interacted and colocalized with PCAF in the cytoplasm and was acetylated at lysine 471 (K471) by PCAF. Using the specific anti‐AcK471‐Fascin antibody, Fascin was found to be acetylated in ESCC cells, and the acetylation level was consequently increased after PCAF overexpression and decreased after PCAF knockdown. Functionally, Fascin‐K471 acetylation markedly suppressed in vitro ESCC cell migration and in vivo tumor metastasis, whereas Fascin‐K471 deacetylation exhibited a potent oncogenic function. Moreover, Fascin‐K471 acetylation reduced filopodial length and density, and lifespan of ESCC cells, while its deacetylation produced the opposite effect. In the filipodium shaft, K471‐acetylated Fascin displayed rapid dynamic exchange, suggesting that it remained in its monomeric form owing to its weakened actin‐bundling activity. Clinically, high levels of AcK471‐Fascin in ESCC tissues were strongly associated with prolonged overall survival and disease‐free survival of ESCC patients.

Conclusions

Fascin interacts directly with PCAF and is acetylated at lysine 471 in ESCC cells. Fascin‐K471 acetylation suppressed ESCC cell migration and tumor metastasis by reducing filopodium formation through the impairment of its actin‐bundling activity.
Designing a Red‐Emitting Viscosity‐Sensitive BODIPY Fluorophore for Intracellular Viscosity Imaging
Authors: Maleckaitė Karolina , Dodonova Jelena , Toliautas Stepas , Žilėnaitė Rugilė , Jurgutis Džiugas , Karabanovas Vitalijus , Tumkevičius Sigitas , Vyšniauskas Aurimas
Published: September 2021

Viscosity imaging at a microscopic scale can provide important information about biosystems, including the development of serious illnesses. Microviscosity imaging is achievable with viscosity‐sensitive fluorophores, the most popular of which are based on the BODIPY group. However, most of the BODIPY probes fluoresce green light, whereas the red luminescence is desired for the imaging of biological samples. Designing a new viscosity probe with suitable spectroscopic properties is a challenging task because it is difficult to preserve viscosity sensitivity after modifying the molecular structure. Here we describe how we developed a new red‐emitting, viscosity‐sensitive, BODIPY fluorophore BP‐PH‐2M‐NO2 that is suitable for reliable intracellular viscosity imaging of lipid droplets in MCF‐7 breast cancer cells. The design of BP‐PH‐2M‐NO2 was aided by DFT calculations that allowed a successful prediction of the viscosity sensitivity of fluorophores before synthesis. In summary, we report a new red viscosity probe possessing monoexponential fluorescence decay that makes it attractive for lifetime‐based viscosity imaging.