bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Exploration of Gender Differences in the use of English Swearwords in Vietnam
Authors: Linh Nguyen Ba Dieu , Hoa Pham To
Published: January 2025

Aims: to explore how English swearwords were used by Vietnamese female and male English learners (i) to find if there were any differences or similarities in the way both genders use English swearwords in particular circumstances; (ii) to investigate the attitude of each gender towards the use of English swearwords and their senses of politeness; (iii) to suggest the inclusion of linguistic manners and cultural perspectives regarding swearing into English teaching to prepare students for cross-cultural communication among English users in Vietnam and worldwide; (iv) to add to existing research on language education that moved beyond the gender-binary approach.
Study Design:  Qualitative study using questionnaires and introspection of authors’ own speech and that of their acquaintances following Lakoff’s theoretical framework on gender differences in English.
Place and Duration of Study: Hanoi, Vietnam, in 5 years.
Methodology: Survey and introspection. 318 Vietnamese English learners (18-26 years old) participated in the survey (159 males and 159 females). Introspection included the authors’ own observations in English classes within Vietnam and abroad experience of using English in Japan.
Results: Responses revealed slight differences between male and female participants in the use of English swearwords and perceptions towards swearwords. Although participants did swear quite frequently, most of them (including male and female) preferred using indirect rather than direct swearwords for politeness, to avoid hurting other feelings, or because it’s just a habit that they have developed themselves through social experiences and that they had been taught by the seniors to not use direct swearwords. Either the users of indirect or direct swearwords, even in an emotional state, a number of male and female participants would first consider the surroundings and the relationship with the listeners before making decisions on their choice of swearwords. The majority of participants, regardless of gender, seemed to share the same fear of being judged for swearing socially which seemed to restrain themselves from swearing in public. Only a minority, disregarded the judgment from the surroundings and still used swearwords to express their emotions. This was also the only gender difference trait that correlated to previous research on gender differences in the use of English swearwords by Lakoff.
Conclusion: Male and female Vietnamese English learners had similar ways in the use and attitudes towards English swearwords and swearing culture which were different from previous studies of gender differences in English by Lakoff. This suggests a different approach to English teaching in Vietnam which emphasizes a need to include cultural studies and language manners regarding swearing for cross-cultural communication.
Front Line Demonstration on Management of Fruit Rot in Chilli
Authors: V Lakshmi Narayanamma, , V Ratnakar, , R Vishwatej, , M Ram Prasad, , B Shiva, , G Veeranna, , R Uma Reddy,
Published: January 2025

The Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) in Bhadradri Kothagudem conducted Front Line Demonstrations (FLD) on management of fruit rot in chilli during 2019-20, 2020-21, and 2021-22. These demonstrations compared the effectiveness of technology-demonstrated (seed treatment and rotation of the fungicides) with traditional farmer practices at plots sized of 0.4 hectares across ten locations for each treatment. The results showed that the technology-demonstrated plots had higher cost-benefit ratios (BC Ratio) of 2.49:1, 2.53:1, and 2.32:1 compared to the BC ratios of 1.96:1, 1.91:1, and 1.90:1 in the farmers' practice plots during the corresponding years. Additionally, farmers practiced plots typically sprayed fungicide mixtures after noticing disease.
Evaluating Yield Gap of Field Pea in Senapati District, Manipur, India
Authors: Telem R.S. , Jyotsna N. , Kumar Deepak , Kennedy Y. , Dipin W. , Akoijam Romila , Donbiaksiam Tabitha
Published: January 2025

Cluster frontline demonstration on field pea was conducted by Krishi Vigyan Kendra-Senapati district of Manipur from 2015–16 to 2022–23 in fifteen villages. The purpose of the study was to evaluate field pea performance under cluster frontline demonstrations in terms of grain yield, extension gap, technology gap, and field pea economics in the adopted villages during the rabi season. Aman (IPF5-19) and Prakash (IPFD 1-10) varieties were the emphasis of the study, which involved 325 farmers and covered 130 hectares. By implementing enhanced production technology, the cluster frontline demonstration produced an average field pea yield of 1315.62 kg/ha, which was 32.42 percent greater than farmers' practices, which were 993.5 kg/ha. The technology index, technological gap, and extension gap were 35.69 percent, 759.37 percent, and 322.12 percent, respectively. The net return was Rs.36574/ha in demonstration plots whereas it was Rs. 20923/ha in farmer practices. The study found that the grain yield and economic returns were higher in recommended practice than the farmer practice. As a result, field pea cluster front line demonstration was successful in raising field pea productivity and altering farmers' knowledge, attitudes, and abilities.
Economic Feasibility of Tank Restoration under Mission Kakatiya: Impacts on Cropping Intensity and Farm Income
Authors: Sowjanya Salla , Kumari R. Vijaya
Published: January 2025

The study assessed the economic feasibility of restoring two tank systems each in Nalgonda and Warangal districts of Telangana state under Mission Kakatiya. The costs and benefits of tank restoration, as well as the financial feasibility of investing in tank restoration and the benefits accruing to farmers after restoration, were analyzed. The restoration works included de-silting, repairing sluice and weir, and strengthening bunds, with a total investment spent. The study found that cropping intensity was significantly higher (186.05%) in sample farms with a tank than in those without (125.22%). Additionally, silt application in the field had a positive impact on crop yields. The investment analysis revealed a positive net present worth (NPW), benefit-cost (B:C) ratio greater than unity, and internal rate of return (IRR) exceeding the opportunity cost of capital in both restored tanks, indicating the economic feasibility of tank restoration.
Integrated IoT-based Smart Billing and LPG Gas Leakage Detection System for Energy Efficiency and Safety in Smart Living
Authors: Foysal Farhan Masud , Mondal Shuvra , Riyad Tarifuzzaman , Sikder Shahin , Rimon Md Asikujjaman , Hasan Jahid , Amir Md. Asif
Published: January 2025

Smart resource management and safety systems are becoming essential in modern living by integrating seamlessly into everyday life, ensuring efficient energy use and proactive hazard detection. This research presents a Smart Billing Meter and LPG Gas Leakage Detection System, emphasizing cost-effectiveness while maintaining high performance, particularly for developing regions. The system offers real-time energy monitoring, dynamic billing, and remote load control, allowing users to optimize energy consumption and reduce costs effectively. The LPG gas detection module enhances safety by identifying hazardous gas levels and triggering automated responses, including exhaust fan activation and instant user alerts, ensuring timely intervention. A user-friendly interface ensures ease of interaction, while IoT integration delivers real-time data and notifications for enhanced transparency and control. The proposed system leverages advanced sensors and IoT technologies to combine energy efficiency with safety, providing a scalable and practical solution for residential and industrial applications. Beyond its technical features, this research explores the system's potential in energy conservation and hazard prevention, offering a forward-thinking approach to smart living. By aligning with global sustainability goals and addressing essential safety concerns, this system fosters a safer, more energy-efficient, and environmentally friendly future.
Meaning Making of Intimacy, Passion and Commitment: Lived Experiences of Unmarried Adults in Online Romantic Relationships
Authors: Ralte Lalpeki
Published: January 2025

Background: Technological advancements and the prevalence of online dating apps in India are shaping the landscape of romantic relationships. The pressures of living in a work-centric and fragmented offline world have forced individuals to seek romance through online dating apps. Much of urban India struggles to make sense of this new phenomenon and its impact. The current qualitative study attempted to understand the lived experiences of unmarried couples who initiated contact through online dating platforms.
Methods: The study used a qualitative design and employed Thematic Analysis to capture relevant themes. Purposive and snowball sampling techniques were used to recruit ten (10) participants for semi-structured interviews. The interviews were conducted through online mode. The participants were Indians residing in Bengaluru whose ages ranged between 25 to 49 years (mean = 33.2 years) and who were currently in a heterosexual relationship that had been initiated through online dating platforms at least six months before their recruitment.
Findings: The results of the Thematic Analysis revealed that online dating comes with a plethora of challenges. Furthermore, intimacy, passion and commitment were found to be vital in online romantic relationships, fostering essential elements for successful and meaningful partnerships. A conceptual framework mapping the process involved in building meaningful online romantic relationships was also developed.
Conclusion: The study provided useful insights about modern relationships in India by identifying themes and interpretations of intimacy, passion and commitment discussed in conversations regarding the development of romantic relationships.
Budding Challenges of Arsenic Contamination in Bengal Fan in the Anthropocene Epoch
Authors: Pramanick Susmita , Mishra Siba Prasad
Published: January 2025

Arsenic toxicity has deteriorated human health status in West Bengal, India, in the past after detection in 1983. The area-specific pollution is increasing: sub-soil explorations, over-extraction of potable water, lift irrigation and mining activities. A hydro-geo-epidemiological assessment of the negative impact of arsenic toxicity on human health residing in the sensitive areas in the Bengal basin is viewed with meagre data and a vast anastomosed drainage system. To address data unavailability, the limitations are inconsistent sampling, comprehensive monitoring, groundwater level variation in aquifers and potential bias in the report. The search uses previous works, site surveys, geographic information systems, and conceptual maps of the geology and petrology of the area. The chemistry of arsenic compounds, their upshot on the human body, and technologies used to decontaminate arsenic in potable water in West Bengal are studied. The key findings are due to the geological lithological formation of the Himalayas. The change in drinking water sources from water bodies to shallow tube wells and mining in the Bengal basin has altered the geochemistry of groundwater with the surge in arsenic contamination from the pre-Holocene to the present.  Aquifers below the Bengal Basin and flood plains are non-point geogenic sources of arsenic. Lift water is the primary contamination source in West Bengal that contributes to the rising trend of arsenic toxicity and health hazards. All concerned should cooperate to decontaminate the arsenic concentration and save West Bengal people from Arsenic exposure by adopting new technologies that comply with SDG 2, SDG 3 and SDG 11 requirements.
Development and Evaluation of Low Cost Indoor Hydroponic Green Fodder Production System
Authors: Babu Dara Anand , Babu Badipati Chinna
Published: January 2025

Aim: To develop an indoor hydroponic fodder production system tailored for small-scale farmers.
Study Design: The system's performance was evaluated based on growth metrics, water use efficiency, and crude protein and fiber content.
Place and Duration of Study: A.M. Reddy Memorial College of Engineering and Technology, Narasaraopet, palnadu, Andhra Pradesh and 2 to 3 months.
Methodology: Indoor hydroponic fodder production is a sustainable and innovative approach to addressing the fodder scarcity faced by livestock farmers. This study focuses on the development and evaluation of an indoor hydroponic system designed to produce maize fodder under controlled conditions without sunlight. A two-tier hydroponic structure was fabricated using locally available materials, equipped with LED spectrum lights and irrigation systems utilizing foggers and emitters.
Results: It shows that fodder grown under LED lights yielded 3.5 kg per tray with a water use efficiency of 825.9 kg/m³, significantly outperforming the fodder grown without LED lights. Additionally, the crude protein and crude fiber content under LED lights were 12.44% and 9.49%, respectively. These findings demonstrate that hydroponic systems can significantly enhance fodder quality and yield, offering a viable solution for resource-scarce regions.
Conclusion: The indoor hydroponic fodder production system designed and evaluated to address the challenges of limited land, water scarcity, and the need for high-quality livestock feed.
Morphometric Analysis Of Kharun River Basin Chhattisgarh, India
Authors: Nag Pukesh Kumar , Shrivastava Dr. Prashant Kumar
Published: January 2025

The Kharun River Basin, a significant watershed of the Sheonath River within the larger Mahanadi River Basin,
represents a critical hydrological system in India that demands focused study for sustainable management. As
natural resources like land, water, and soil face intense pressure due to increasing population and resource
utilization, it is vital to understand the dynamics of these resources to ensure their sustainable usage and
management. In this study, a range of morphometric parameters—categorized as linear, areal, and relief
aspects—are analyzed to understand the spatial variations within the basin. The methodology incorporates digital
elevation model (DEM) data to derive critical morphometric features, including stream order, bifurcation ratio,
drainage density, stream frequency, and relief ratio, which are essential indicators of the hydrological behavior
of the basin. These parameters are not only indicative of the basin's potential for water retention and flow
regulation but also serve as a basis for assessing the susceptibility of the area to erosion, sediment transport, and
flooding. Using SRTM (Shuttle Radar Topography Mission) data, the study delineates the Kharun River Basin’s
drainage network, highlighting its hierarchical structure and identifying critical zones for conservation.
Furthermore, a detailed examination of the Digital Elevation Model (DEM) of the Kharun River Basin provides
insights into elevation changes, slope distribution, and watershed boundaries, which are essential for water
resource management and flood mitigation planning. The aspect analysis of the basin reveals directional slopes,
which impact water flow direction and soil moisture distribution, influencing land use practices and vegetation
patterns. The DEM and aspect maps, along with the morphometric analysis, offer a comprehensive understanding
of the basin’s hydrological framework.
The outcomes of this research are expected to aid in the effective management of the Kharun River Basin’s natural
resources. The findings support water catchment management by identifying potential water storage areas and
areas at risk of soil erosion. Additionally, insights from the study can contribute to agricultural land-use planning
by suggesting suitable zones for cultivation and advising on sustainable water usage for industrial activities. This
study also addresses hazard management by identifying flood-prone areas and erosion-sensitive regions, thereby
assisting policymakers in developing targeted strategies for disaster mitigation and resource conservation. Ultimately, the morphometric analysis of the Kharun River Basin provides a valuable scientific foundation for ensuring the sustainable development of the region’s natural resources
Anti‐Chi3L1 antibody suppresses lung tumor growth and metastasis through inhibition of M2 polarization
Authors: Yu Ji Eun , Yeo In Jun , Son Dong Ju , Yun Jaesuk , Han Sang‐Bae , Hong Jin Tae
Published: December 2021

Chitinase 3‐like 1 (Chi3L1) is associated with various biological processes, such as inflammation, tissue repair, proliferation, cell survival, invasion, and extracellular matrix remodeling. Recent studies indicated that Chi3L1 is critical for cancer development and metastasis. In this study, we demonstrate that Chi3L1 serum and tissue levels were significantly increased in lung cancer patients compared with controls. We previously developed an anti‐Chi3L1‐humanized antibody, and here, we investigate its antitumor and antimetastatic effect. The anti‐Chi3L1 antibody attenuated tumor growth and metastasis both in vitro and in vivo in a lung cancer mouse model. These inhibitory effects are associated with signal transducer and activator of transcription 6 (STAT6)‐dependent M2 polarization inhibition. Proteomics analysis revealed that plasminogen (PLG) interacts with Chi3L1 and affects M2 polarization. Chi3L1 plays a critical role in lung cancer progression, and the anti‐Chi3L1 antibody could be a new anticancer therapy.
Mcl‐1 and Bcl‐xL levels predict responsiveness to dual MEK/Bcl‐2 inhibition in B‐cell malignancies
Authors: Melvold Katrine , Giliberto Mariaserena , Karlsen Linda , Ayuda‐Durán Pilar , Hanes Robert , Holien Toril , Enserink Jorrit , Brown Jennifer R. , Tjønnfjord Geir E. , Taskén Kjetil , Skånland Sigrid S.
Published: December 2021

Most patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) initially respond to targeted therapies, but eventually relapse and develop resistance. Novel treatment strategies are therefore needed to improve patient outcomes. Here, we performed direct drug testing on primary CLL cells and identified synergy between eight different mitogen‐activated protein kinase kinase (MEK) inhibitors and the B‐cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl‐2) antagonist venetoclax. Drug sensitivity was independent of immunoglobulin heavy‐chain gene variable region (IGVH) and tumor protein p53 (TP53) mutational status, and CLL cells from idelalisib‐resistant patients remained sensitive to the treatment. This suggests that combined MEK/Bcl‐2 inhibition may be an option for high‐risk CLL. To test whether sensitivity could be detected in other B‐cell malignancies, we performed drug testing on cell line models of CLL (n = 4), multiple myeloma (MM; n = 8), and mantle cell lymphoma (MCL; n = 7). Like CLL, MM cells were sensitive to the MEK inhibitor trametinib, and synergy was observed with venetoclax. In contrast, MCL cells were unresponsive to MEK inhibition. To investigate the underlying mechanisms of the disease‐specific drug sensitivities, we performed flow cytometry‐based high‐throughput profiling of 31 signaling proteins and regulators of apoptosis in the 19 cell lines. We found that high expression of the antiapoptotic proteins myeloid cell leukemia‐1 (Mcl‐1) or B‐cell lymphoma‐extra large (Bcl‐xL) predicted low sensitivity to trametinib + venetoclax. The low sensitivity could be overcome by combined treatment with an Mcl‐1 or Bcl‐xL inhibitor. Our findings suggest that MEK/Bcl‐2 inhibition has therapeutic potential in leukemia and myeloma, and demonstrate that protein expression levels can serve as predictive biomarkers for treatment sensitivities.
Desulfitispora
Authors: Sorokin Dimitry Y. , Merkel Alexander Y.
Published: December 2021

De.sul.fi.ti.spo'ra. L. abl. prep.
de
, from, off, away; N.L. n.
sulfis ‐itis
, sulfite; Gr. fem. n.
spora
, a seed and in biology a spore; from Gr. fem. n.
spora
; N.L. fem. n.
Desulfitispora
, spore‐forming bacterium‐reducing sulfite.

“Firmicutes B” / Desulfitisporia / Desulfitisporales / Desulfitisporaceae / Desulfitispora

The genus
Desulfitispora
is a member of the
Desulfitisporaceae
family in the class
Desulfitisporia
and phylum “
Firmicutes
B.” Its closest relatives are spore‐forming sulfate/sulfite‐reducing firmicutes, such as the genera
Desulfitibacter
,
Desulfitobacterium
, and
Desulfosporosinus
. It includes obligately anaerobic Gram‐positive sulfidogens that respire sulfite, thiosulfate, and elemental sulfur but not sulfate. It is moderately salt tolerant and obligately alkaliphilic. Inhabits anaerobic sediments of soda lakes. The genus currently includes two species,
Desulfitispora alkaliphila
, which is the type species, and
Desulfitispora elongata
.

DNA G + C content (mol%)
: 38.8 (type species, genome) to 40.3 (
D. elongata
,
T
m
).

Type species
:
Desulfitispora alkaliphila
Sorokin and Muyzer 2010, VL134.
Thioflexithrix
Authors: Gureeva Maria V. , Grabovich Margarita Y.
Published: December 2021

Thi.o.fle'xi.thrix. Gr. neut. n.
theion
sulfur, L. masc. adj.
flexus
curved, Gr. fem. n.
thrix
hair; N.L. fem. n.
Thioflexithrix
sulfur curved hair.

Proteobacteria / Gammaproteobacteria / Beggiatoales / Beggiatoaceae / Thioflexithrix

The genus
Thioflexithrix
accommodates microaerophilic facultatively anaerobic and obligately chemolithoautotrophic sulfur‐oxidizing bacteria. Cells of these bacteria stain Gram‐negative and are united into filaments capable of gliding motility. Reproduction occurs by transverse binary fission of the cells in the filaments. The filaments propagate as hormogonia by formation of necridial sites. The cells contain sulfur globules in the periplasm and often contain intracellular granules of polyphosphate and polyhydroxyalkanoate. CO
2
is assimilated through the Calvin–Benson–Bassham cycle. Electron donors are thiosulfate, sulfide, and H
2
. CS
2
, S
0
, sulfite (SO
3
2−
), and S
4
O
6
2−
are not used as electron donors. Members of the genus are capable of growth using dimethyl sulfoxide, fumarate, and oxygen and are not capable of growth using sulfate or nitrate as the terminal electron acceptor. These bacteria are capable of molecular nitrogen fixation. The major cellular fatty acids are C
18:1
ω7, C
16:0
, and C
16:1
ω7. The dominant respiratory lipoquinone is UQ
6
. The known habitats are sulfidic springs.

DNA G + C content (mol%)
: 42.1 (genome sequence).

Type species
:
Thioflexithrix psekupsensis
Gureeva et al. 2019
VP
.
Desulfitisporales ord. nov.
Authors: Sorokin Dimitry Y. , Merkel Alexander Y.
Published: December 2021

De.sul.fi.ti.spo.ra'les. N.L. fem. pl. n.
Desulfitisporales
, the order of the genus
Desulfitispora
.

“Firmicutes B” / Desulfitisporia / Desulfitisporales ord. nov.

Desulfitisporales
is the only order of the class
Desulfitisporia
, which forms a deeply branching phylogenetic lineage in the phylum “
Firmicutes
B.” It consists of a single family
Desulfitisporaceae
and a genus
Desulfitispora
, whose species are endospore forming, haloalkaliphilic, and heterotrophic anaerobes with a respiratory metabolism.
AAC lawsuit against NAATP dismissed
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: December 2021

On a beautiful May day in 2019, we were at the annual leadership meeting of the National Association of Addiction Treatment Providers (NAATP) in Washington, D.C., when the halls gradually became filled with what seemed like an impossibility: That first day of the conference, American Addiction Centers (AAC) sued the organization for defamation (see “AAC sues NAATP for defamation,” ADAW, May 13, 2019; https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/adaw.32362). The Nashville‐based treatment chain, which has since filed for bankruptcy, spent the last two‐and‐a‐half years pursuing its claims, which were based on NAATP's decision that AAC didn't meet the organization's requirements for membership, which included meeting certain marketing and other ethical standards.
Withdrawal after buprenorphine induction: The fentanyl effect
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: December 2021

Opioid‐dependent patients who are administered buprenorphine have reported anecdotally that the medication causes withdrawal symptoms. A recent study (“Evidence of Buprenorphine‐precipitated Withdrawal in Persons Who Use Fentanyl,” by Neil B. Varshneya, Ph.D., and colleagues, published in the Nov. 23 issue of the Journal of Addiction Medicine) based on patient interviews found that patients who were administered buprenorphine within 24 hours of illicit fentanyl use were more likely to have severe withdrawal symptoms than patients administered methadone, or than patients who waited 24 hours.
Remodeling of Membrane Shape and Topology by Curvature Elasticity and Membrane Tension
Authors: Lipowsky Reinhard
Published: December 2021

Cellular membranes exhibit a fascinating variety of different morphologies, which are continuously remodeled by transformations of membrane shape and topology. This remodeling is essential for important biological processes (cell division, intracellular vesicle trafficking, endocytosis) and can be elucidated in a systematic and quantitative manner using synthetic membrane systems. Here, recent insights obtained from such synthetic systems are reviewed, integrating experimental observations and molecular dynamics simulations with the theory of membrane elasticity. The study starts from the polymorphism of biomembranes as observed for giant vesicles by optical microscopy and small nanovesicles in simulations. This polymorphism reflects the unusual elasticity of fluid membranes and includes the formation of membrane necks or fluid ‘worm holes'. The proliferation of membrane necks generates stable multi‐spherical shapes, which can form tubules and tubular junctions. Membrane necks are also essential for the remodeling of membrane topology via membrane fission and fusion. Neck fission can be induced by fine‐tuning of membrane curvature, which leads to the controlled division of giant vesicles, and by adhesion‐induced membrane tension as observed for small nanovesicles. Challenges for future research include the interplay of curvature elasticity and membrane tension during membrane fusion and the localization of fission and fusion processes within intramembrane domains.
Uniaxial and Coaxial Vertical Embedded Extrusion Bioprinting
Authors: Lian Liming , Zhou Cuiping , Tang Guosheng , Xie Maobin , Wang Zixuan , Luo Zeyu , Japo Julia , Wang Di , Zhou Jianhua , Wang Mian , Li Wanlu , Maharjan Sushila , Ruelas Marina , Guo Jie , Wu Xunwei , Zhang Yu Shrike
Published: December 2021

The 3D bioprinting technologies have attracted increasing attention due to their flexibility in producing architecturally relevant tissue constructs. Here, a vertical embedded extrusion bioprinting strategy using uniaxial or coaxial nozzles is presented, which allows formation of vertical structures of homogeneous or heterogeneous properties. By adjusting the bioprinting parameters, the characteristics of the bioprinted vertical patterns can be precisely controlled. Using this strategy, two proof‐of‐concept applications in tissue biofabrication are demonstrated. Specifically, intestinal villi and hair follicles, two liner‐shaped tissues in the human body, are successfully generated with the vertical embedded bioprinting method, reconstructing some of their key structures as well as restoring partial functions in vitro. Caco‐2 cells in the bioprinted intestinal villus constructs proliferated and aggregated properly, also showing functional biomarker expressions such as ZO‐1 and villin. Moreover, preliminary hair follicle structures featuring keratinized human keratinocytes and spheroid‐shaped human dermal papilla cells are formed after vertical bioprinting and culturing. In summary, this vertical embedded extrusion bioprinting technique harnessing a uniaxial or coaxial format will likely bring further improvements in the reconstruction of certain human tissues and organs, especially those with a linear structure, potentially leading to wide utilities in tissue engineering, tissue model engineering, and drug discovery.
Self‐Blockade of PD‐L1 with Bacteria‐Derived Outer‐Membrane Vesicle for Enhanced Cancer Immunotherapy
Authors: Pan Jingmei , Li Xilin , Shao Binfen , Xu Funeng , Huang Xuehui , Guo Xing , Zhou Shaobing
Published: December 2021

The checkpoint inhibitor therapy that blocks programmed death‐1 (PD‐1) and its major ligand PD‐L1 has achieved encouraging clinical efficacy in certain cancers. However, the binding of checkpoint inhibitors with other immune cells that express PD‐L1 often results in a low response rate to the blockade and severe adverse effects. Herein, an LyP1 polypeptide‐modified outer‐membrane vesicle (LOMV) loaded with a PD‐1 plasmid is developed to achieve self‐blockade of PD‐L1 in tumor cells. The nanocarriers accumulate in the tumor tissue through OMV‐targeting ability and are internalized into the tumor cells via the LyP1‐mediated target, subsequently delivering PD‐1 plasmid into the nucleus, leading to the expression of PD‐1 by the tumor cells. In addition, a magnetic particle chemiluminescence kit is developed to quantitatively detect the binding rate of PD‐1/PD‐L1. The self‐expressed PD‐1 bonded with the PD‐L1 is expressed by both autologous and neighboring tumor cells, achieving self‐blockade. Simultaneously, the outer‐membrane protein of LOMV recruits cytotoxic lymphocyte cells and natural killer cells to tumor tissues and stimulates them to secrete IFN‐γ  , improving the antitumor activity of the PD‐1/PD‐L1 self‐blocking therapy.
Tailoring Layer Number of 2D Porphyrin‐Based MOFs Towards Photocoupled Electroreduction of CO2
Authors: Yang Deren , Zuo Shouwei , Yang Haozhou , Zhou Yue , Lu Qichen , Wang Xun
Published: December 2021

Inspired by the success of graphene, a series of single‐ or few‐layer 2D materials have been developed and applied in the past decade. Here, the successful preparation of monolayer and bilayer 2D porphyrin‐based metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) by a facile solvothermal method is reported. The structure transition from monolayer to bilayer drives distinct electronic properties and restructuring behaviors, which finally results in distinct catalytic pathways towards CO2 electrocatalysis. The monolayer favors CO2‐to‐C2 pathway due to the restructuring of CuO4 sites, while CO and HCOO− are the major products over the bilayer. In photocoupled electrocatalysis, the Faradaic efficiency (FE) of the C2 compounds shows a nearly fourfold increase on the monolayer than that under dark conditions (FEC2 increases from 11.9% to 41.1% at −1.4 V). For comparison, the light field plays a negligible effect on the bilayer. The light‐induced selectivity optimization is investigated by experimental characterization and density functional theory (DFT) calculations. This work opens up a novel possibility to tune the selectivity of carbon products just by tailoring the layer number of the 2D material.
Oxygen Diffusion in Platinum Electrodes: A Molecular Dynamics Study of the Role of Extended Defects
Authors: Zurhelle Alexander F. , Stehling Wilhelm , Waser Rainer , De Souza Roger A. , Menzel Stephan
Published: December 2021

Platinum serves as a model electrode in solid‐state electrochemistry and as the inert electrode in redox‐based resistive random‐access memory (ReRAM) technology. Experimental work has proposed that oxygen may diffuse faster along platinum's extended defects, but quantitative, unambiguous transport data do not exist. In this study, the diffusion of oxygen atoms in crystalline platinum and along its extended defects is studied as a function of temperature by means of molecular dynamics (MD) simulations with the ReaxFF interatomic potentials. The MD simulations indicate that platinum vacancies trap oxygen atoms, inhibiting their diffusion through the platinum lattice and leading to a high activation enthalpy of diffusion of around 3 eV. This picture of trapping is supported by static density‐functional‐theory calculations. MD simulations of selected dislocations and selected grain boundaries indicate that oxygen diffusion is much faster along these extended defects than through the Pt lattice at temperatures below 1400 K, exhibiting a much lower activation enthalpy of ≈0.7 eV for all extended defects examined. Producing specific electrode microstructures with controlled densities and types of extended defects thus offers a new avenue to improve the performance of ReRAM devices and to prevent device failure.
A Self‐Assembly Method for Tunable and Scalable Nano‐Stamps: A Versatile Approach for Imprinting Nanostructures
Authors: Donie Yidenekachew J. , Yuan Yingxuan , Allegro Isabel , Schackmar Fabian , Hossain Ihteaz M. , Huber Robert , Roger Julie , Paetzold Ulrich W. , Gomard Guillaume , Lemmer Uli
Published: December 2021

In nanoimprint lithography (NIL), the imprinting stamp's fabrication is still a significant cost factor among the consumables. Bottom‐up lithography approaches based on a phase‐separation of polymer blends can provide a cost‐effective route for fabricating these stamps. Today's polymers used to prepare phase‐separated nanostructures (PSN), however, exhibit low glass transition temperatures. As a result, the PSN are prone to in‐plane stamp distortions in the presence of high imprinting pressure and temperature, limiting their practical relevance for NIL. Here, the realization of mechanically and thermally stable PSN‐based imprinting stamps for NIL systems via a phase‐separation of a homopolymer/inorganic–organic hybrid polymer blend is reported. It is demonstrated that these imprinting stamps are easily tunable and scalable by adjusting the formulation of homopolymer/hybrid polymer mixture and deposition conditions. Feature sizes in PSN ranging from a few μm down to 100 nm are achieved through an interplay of these factors. As demonstrations of the envisioned applications, the developed imprinting stamps are integrated into a roll‐to‐roll NIL system for patterning a polystyrene thin‐film. Moreover, light management is demonstrated by nanopatterning of a perovskite semiconductor in plate‐to‐plate process. The nanopatterned perovskite film achieves an integrated absorption and a photoluminescence emission peak increase of 7%rel and 121%rel, respectively.
Strong Rashba Effect and Different f−d Hybridization Phenomena at the Surface of the Heavy‐Fermion Superconductor CeIrIn5
Authors: Mende Max , Ali Khadiza , Poelchen Georg , Schulz Susanne , Mandic Vladislav , Tarasov Artem V. , Polley Craig , Generalov Alexander , Fedorov Alexander V. , Güttler Monika , Laubschat Clemens , Kliemt Kristin , Koroteev Yury M. , Chulkov Evgueni V. , Kummer Kurt , Krellner Cornelius , Usachov Dmitry Yu. , Vyalikh Denis V.
Published: December 2021

New temperature scales and remarkable differences from bulk properties have increasingly placed the surfaces of strongly correlated f materials into the focus of research activities. Applying first‐principles calculations and angle‐resolved photoelectron spectroscopy measurements, a strong Rashba effect and spin‐split surface states at the CeIn surface of the heavy‐fermion superconductor CeIrIn5 are revealed. The unveiled 4f‐derived electron landscape is remarkably distinct for surface and bulk Ce implying the existence of novel temperature scales near the surface region in this material. These results show that ab initio calculations can reliably predict the unusual electronic and spin structure of surfaces of strongly correlated 4f systems where Rashba spin‐orbit‐coupling phenomena emerge. It is suggested that the structural blocks of such materials can be combined with magnetically active layers for engineering of novel nanostructural objects with appropriate substrates where the diversity of f‐driven properties can be applied for the development of novel functionalities.
A Key 2D Intermediate Phase for Stable High‐Efficiency CsPbI2Br Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Yang Shaomin , Wen Jialun , Liu Zhike , Che Yuhang , Xu Jie , Wang Jungang , Xu Dongfang , Yuan Ningyi , Ding Jianning , Duan Yuwei , Liu Shengzhong (Frank)
Published: December 2021

Inorganic CsPbI2Br perovskite is promising for solar cell applications due to its excellent thermal stability and optoelectronic characteristics. Unfortunately, the current high‐efficiency CsPbI2Br perovskite solar cells (PSCs) are mostly fabricated in an inert atmosphere due to their instability to moisture. Herein, a low‐dimensional intermediate‐assisted growth (LDIAG) method is reported for the deposition of CsPbI2Br film in ambient atmosphere by introducing imidazole halide (IMX: IMI and IMBr) into the precursor solution to control both nucleation and growth kinetics. The IMX first combines with PbI2 in the precursor film to form a 2D intermediate which then gradually releases PbI2 to slowly form high‐quality CsPbI2Br film during annealing. It is found that the LDIAG method produces a uniform, highly crystalline, pinhole‐free, and stable CsPbI2Br film with low defect density. Consequently, the solar cell efficiency is increased to as high as 17.26%, one of the highest for this type of device. Furthermore, the bare device without any encapsulation shows excellent long‐term stability with ≈86% of its initial efficiency retained after being exposed to the ambient environment for 1000 h. This work provides a perspective to tune the intermediate phases and crystallization pathway for high‐performance inorganic PSCs formed under ambient conditions.
Improved ALMANAC simulations of upland switchgrass ecotypes in the northern United States
Authors: Proulx Rob A , Hill Michael J , Laguette Soizik
Published: December 2021

This investigation used a modified parameterization of the Agricultural Land Management Alternative with Numerical Assessment Criteria (ALMANAC) model to improve simulated growth and biomass yield of upland switchgrass (Panicum virgatum L.) ecotypes in northern U.S. locations. Leaf area development, biomass accumulation, and N utilization of upland ecotypes were parameterized by field evaluations from Montreal, QC, Canada, and sites throughout the northern U.S. Great Plains. Resulting ALMANAC simulations were validated against measured yields from 66 location–years of switchgrass production across 13 sites in Minnesota, North Dakota, and South Dakota. As contrasted to the model defaults, the modified parameterization reduced RMSE of annual simulated yields from 3.77 to 2.62 Mg ha−1 and improved percentage bias from −16 to 13%. Model performance was most improved in environments with no N fertilization, where ALMANAC simulated annual yields with an RMSE of 1.73 Mg ha−1 and percentage bias of −0.5%. Relative to the default ALMANAC parameterization, the modified parameterization also simulated a longer growing season and extended the median simulated maturity date from 1 to 28 August, greatly improving the estimation of switchgrass phenology within the study region. Sensitivity analyses revealed that simulated switchgrass yield was unaffected by modifications of runoff curve number and was most affected by modifications of radiation use efficiency. The other seven parameter modifications each had a median yield impact of 0.57–1.4 Mg ha−1. This work provides an improved characterization of upland switchgrass ecotypes in northern U.S. locations for future ALMANAC users.
Effect of biomass co‐firing position on combustion and NOX emission in a 300‐MWe coal‐fired tangential boiler
Authors: Tu Yaojie , Li Jianlan , Chang Dongfeng , Hu Bo
Published: December 2021

Co‐firing biomass in an existing coal combustion boiler is a promising way to mitigate carbon emission in the context of global carbon neutrality. This paper investigated the effect of biomass injection location on combustion and NOX formation characteristics in a 300‐MWe tangential boiler co‐firing with coal. Numerical models have been validated against experimental measurement for both pure coal firing and biomass/coal co‐firing cases. Compared to pure coal firing, co‐firing case with biomass injected into the highest layer can sustain a comparable temperature distribution profile along the furnace height, and generate a lower NO emission by around 20 ppm. By moving the biomass injection location downward, the temperature difference between co‐firing and pure coal firing cases becomes larger, and the final NO emission increases continually from 222 to 240 ppm. When biomass is injected through the lowest layer, N element in biomass volatile is oxidized to NO directly because of the abundant oxygen; thus, NO emission turns to be the highest among all co‐firing cases. Contrarily, when biomass is injected through the highest layer, the majority of N in biomass volatile is released as NH3, and it further acts as a reduction agent for NO, thus leading to the lowest NO emission.
Photoactive graphene quantum dots/bacterial cellulose hydrogels: Structural, mechanical, and pro‐oxidant study
Authors: Marković Zoran M. , Zmejkoski Danica Z. , Budimir Milica D. , Bugárová Nikol , Kleinová Angela , Kuzman Sanja B. , Špitalský Zdeno , Pavlović Vladimir B. , Milivojević Dušan D. , Todorović Marković Biljana M.
Published: December 2021

Due to their unique structural properties bacterial cellulose (BC) hydrogels find possible usage in many fields such as cosmetology, food industry, or medicine. In this study, photoactive BC hydrogels are investigated through modifications of their structural, mechanical, and pro‐oxidant properties resulting from graphene quantum dots (GQDs) encapsulation. Detailed structural analysis is conducted by atomic force microscopy, transmission electron microscopy and scanning electron microscopy, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and X‐ray diffraction method. Dynamic mechanical analysis is performed to study the changes in storage modulus, loss modulus and tan δ. Pro‐oxidative properties of new designed composites are tested by electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR). Structural and mechanical analyses show successful encapsulation of GQDs into BC whereas EPR measurements indicate high potential of these composites for singlet oxygen production.
Morphometry of auditory ossicles in medieval human remains from Central Europe
Authors: Krenz‐Niedbała Marta , Łukasik Sylwia , Macudziński Jakub , Chowański Szymon
Published: December 2021

Human auditory ossicles, the malleus, the incus, and the stapes, are located in the tympanic cavity in the temporal bone and through forming a chain for the sound transmission from the tympanic membrane to the cochlea, they play an important role in the hearing process. Despite their clinical, phylogenetic, and evolutionary significance, the morphometry of the human ear bones has not been examined systematically. The ear ossicles are the smallest bones of the human skeleton, attaining their final size and morphology already at birth. Initially, they have been found to exhibit minimal morphometric variation, but further studies brought the opposite results. The aim of this study was to examine the morphometric variation of human auditory ossicles recovered from medieval and postmedieval subadult skeletons from Poland, Central Europe. The analysis involved in a total of 166 ear bones. Their measurements were performed on microscopic images using CorelDraw x4, according to a protocol of Quam and Rak with modification of Flohr et al. and Wadhwa et al. Our study showed a significant metric variation in the measurements taken at areas of the greatest morphological variability of the ossicles. We found that greater linear dimensions were associated with lower values of angular measurements. These results reveal the inherent variation found in these supposed functionally constrained structures. Representation of even greater number of populations, time periods, and developmental stages are needed. Further study will expand our understanding of the global scope of variation found in ear ossicular morphology and its functional implications for paleoanthropology.
Circular economy and environmental disclosure in sustainability reports: Empirical evidence in cosmetic companies
Authors: Tiscini Riccardo , Martiniello Laura , Lombardi Rosa
Published: December 2021

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the content and quality of circular economy (CE) and environmental information (CEEI) disclosure in sustainability reports. Additionally, it provides suggestions for heightening CEEI disclosure. Using the content analysis, we analysed the changes that took place after the European Union (EU) action plan (2015) selecting a sample of sustainable reports in the cosmetic industry in Italy in 2014 and 2019 years. We applied the Climate Disclosure Standard Board (CDSB) framework focused on 12 reporting requirements designed to encourage corporate standardized disclosure of environmental information. Our analysis is performed through a frequency term analysis. Additionally, to measure the general shift of semantic over the two years towards CEEI, a semi‐supervised topic modelling approach was applied, whose topics were obtained by aggregating all terms with a significant variation from the content analysis. Findings show that the recent reports (2019) include terms related to the environment in a slightly more frequent way compared to 2014. We provide stronger evidence of the shift in the origin of the topics, being coherent with the changes introduced from the EU 2015 act, and the requirements of the CDSB framework nevertheless the CE seems still under‐reported in the area of governance, strategy, management and performance. The paper discusses the need for further Institutional (EU directives), regulatory (CDSB framework) and stakeholders' pressure (on companies. Finally, the implementation of an integrated reporting for social, economic and environmental disclosure is suggested as a way to ensure an effective CEEI disclosure.
Ni2+ Catalyzed Cleavage of TrpLE‐Fused Small Transmembrane Peptides
Authors: Tang Meng , Cao Ruiyu , Du Lingyu , Xu Jikang , Wu Bin , OuYang Bo
Published: December 2021

In addition to a membrane anchor, the transmembrane domain (TMD) of single‐pass transmembrane proteins (SPTMPs) recently has shown essential roles in the cross‐membrane activity or receptor assembly/clustering. However, these small TMD peptides are generally hydrophobic and dynamic, difficult to be expressed and purified. Here, we have integrated the power of TrpLE fusion protein and a sequence‐specific nickel‐assisted cleavage (SNAC)‐tag to produce small TMD peptides in a highly efficient way under mild conditions, which uses Ni2+ as the cleavage reagent, avoiding the usage of toxic cyanogen bromide (CNBr). Furthermore, this method simplifies the downstream protein purification and reconstitution. Two representative TMDs, including the Spike‐TMD from severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS2), were successfully produced with high‐quality nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectra. Therefore, our study provides a more efficient and practical approach for general structural characterization of the small TM proteins.
Selective Glucose Sensing under Physiological pH with Flexible and Binder‐Free Prussian Blue Coated Carbon Cloth Electrodes
Authors: Chalil Oglou Ramadan , Ulusoy Ghobadi T. Gamze , Ozbay Ekmel , Karadas Ferdi
Published: December 2021

The frequent detection of physiological glucose levels from human blood or sweat requires the development of low‐cost electrodes with high sensitivity and selectivity. In this work, we prepared a series of Prussian blue (PB) modified carbon cloth (CC) electrodes with different cyanoferrate groups. We achieved a sensitivity as high as 145.43 μA mm−1cm−2 in a 0.1–6.5 mm concentration range with a response time below 2 s under physiological pH. The electrodes exhibited a superior selectivity of glucose in the presence of interfering agents, including sucrose, lactose, NaCl, ascorbic acid, and uric acid. The electrodes also showed outstanding long‐term stability over 15 days. Furthermore, we performed comprehensive electrochemical and characterization studies to elucidate the role of the cyanoferrate group on the morphologic and electronic properties of non‐enzymatic glucose sensors.