bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Different Organic Manures and Their Levels on Nutrient Status and Soil Microbial Activity under Rose (Rosa bourboniana Desportes) Cultivation
Authors: Kumar Pawan , Sheoran Sonu , Kamboj Ankush , . Divya , . Gurmeet , Kumar Deepak , . Raveena
Published: February 2023

A field experiment was conducted to study the effect of different organic manures and their levels on nutrient status and soil microbial activity in rose  at Hisar during 2020-21. The treatments comprised of 3 different types of organic manures viz., farm yard manures, vermicompost and poultry manure  and  4 levels  control, 4 kg/m2, 5 kg/m2 and 6 kg/m2.  The experiment   was carried out in the split plot design with three replications.    Observation on   organic carbon, dehydrogenase activity and alkaline phosphatase activity, N, P  and K content  in  rose leaves and available N, P and  K content in soil at the time of harvest were recorded. Organic carbon in soil was maximum (0.93%) with the application of vermicompost while dehydrogenase and alkaline phosphatase activity were highest with the application of farmyard manure and poultry manure, respectively. Nitrogen (2.17%) and phosphorus (0.27%) content were maximum in rose leaves at harvest stage with the application of poultry manure while Potassium (1.41%) content was   maximum vermicompost. Same trend was observed in the nutrient status of soil with the application of different organic manures. It is concluded that the application of poultry manures had  pronounced effect on microbial activity and nutrient status in rose.
Impact of Rice Residue Management Practices on Growth and Productivity of Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)
Authors: Maurya Kanhaiya Lal , Pandey Alok Kumar , Anshuman Kumar , Yadav Sandeep , Chauhan Sugandha
Published: February 2023

An experiment was conducted during Rabi season 2020-21 at Instructional Farm of Acharya Narendra Deva Univ. of Agric. & Technology, Narendra Nagar, Kumarganj, Ayodhya (U.P.) to evaluate the effect of different nutrient management practices on growth and yield attributes of wheat. The experiment consisting of  11 treatments, T1 (Control); T2 (chemical fertilizers at 100% RDF); T3 (chemical fertilizers at 75% RDF); T4 (T3 + paddy straw); T5 (T3 + paddy straw + microbial decomposer at 100 ml/plot); T6 (T3 + paddy straw + microbial decomposer at 250 ml/plot); T7 (T3 + paddy straw + microbial decomposer at 500 ml/plot); T8[T3 + (PSB + Mycorrhiza) at 50 ml/plot]; T9[T3+ (PSB + Mycorrhiza) at at 100 ml/plot]; T10[T3 + paddy straw + microbial decomposer at 250 ml/plot + (PSB + Mycorrhiza) at 50 ml/plot]; T11[paddy straw + microbial decomposer at 250 ml/plot + (PSB + Mycorrhiza) at 50 ml/plot) were laid down in triplicate plots in Randomized block design (RBD).Wheat variety PBW-373 was taken as test crop. The results revealed that the application of chemical fertilizersat 75% RDF paddy straw + microbial decomposer at at 250 ml/plot + (PSB + Mycorrhiza) at at 50 ml/plot (T10) recorded significantly higher growth attributes viz.  Plant height dry matter accumulations, leaf area index, and yield attributes viz. number of grains per spike, weight of spike, test weight, grain yield, straw yield also biological yield along with harvest index.
Impact of Watershed Management on Bio-physical, Hydrological and Agricultural Indicators in the Lakkonda Watershed Project of East Godavari District, Andhra Pradesh, India
Authors: Reddy P. V. R. M. , Kona Sasidhar , Reddy R. V. Sagar Kumar , Reddy B. Janardhan , Ramana R. V. , Rekha D. V. S. R. L. , Rao K. Veerabhadra
Published: February 2023

The present study was taken up to evaluate the impact of the Lakkonda Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (PMKSY) watershed, East Godavari district, Andhra Pradesh which was implemented during the period 2014-15 to 2020-21 under the Batch-V group with a treatable area of 4986 hectares covering seven micro watersheds. The impact of watershed interventions mainly on bio-physical, hydrological and agriculture indicators. The Land Use Land Cover (LULC), Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) and Normalized Difference Water Index (NDWI) were assessed utilizing the Remote Sensing and Geographical Information System technique. The results indicated that the area under cropland and plantation increased by 92.95 ha (2.54%) and 154.08 ha (30.01%) respectively. The scrubland/fallow area was decreased by 269.42 ha (19.72%) which might be converted into plantations and cropland. The area under medium vegetation, 67.98 ha (3.93%) and dense vegetation, 441.51 ha (33.82%) increased, whereas other vegetation classes (nil and low) were substantially decreased. The water body areas also increased from 5.92 ha to 10.95 ha which might be due to rainwater harvesting and water conservation, structures undertaken in the project area. An increase in hydrological features like waterbodies and groundwater table was observed as indicated by the rise of the water table in dug wells(1.84m) and tube wells (0.57m). The cropping intensity raised to 120.82 from 100.19% resulting in a 20.61% increase in the study area, because of watershed management interventions mainly soil and water conservation methods and rainwater harvesting structures constructed during the project period and which shows increased productivity of major crops in the project area i.e., rice (26.64 to 79.03%) pulses (14.69to113.47%) cotton (73.30%) and cashew (167.76%) increased during the post-project period. The overall benefit-cost ratio of import crops was increased and among the observed crops high returns for the rupee invested were from the green gram.
Effect of Plant Spacing and Manganese on Yield, Economics and Quality of Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.)
Authors: Sangeetha Tappeta , Singh Rajesh , Indu Thakur
Published: February 2023

A field experiment was conducted during Zaid season (2022) at Crop ResearchFarm, Department of Agronomy, SHUATS, Prayagraj (U.P.),India, to study the influence of spacing and manganese on yield and economics and quality of sesame. The treatments consisted of 3 levels of spacing ( 30×10cm, 40× 10cm, 50× 10 cm) and 3 levels of manganese (1.5,3.0 and 4.5 kg/ha). The experiment was laid out in Randomized Block Design with 10 treatments and replicated thrice. The results recorded significantly higher in yield and yield attributes viz. number of capsules/plant (52.47), number of seeds per capsules (74.50), test weight (3.37 g), seed yield (1.19 t/ha), stover yield (2.67 t/ha) and oil content (48.10%).Maximum Gross returns (113050.00 (Indian Rupee) INR/ha), Net returns (76944.15(Indian Rupee) INR/ha) and Benefit cost ratio (2.13) was found in treatment (T9)with the application of 50×10cm + manganese sulfate (MnSO4) 4.5 Kg/ha.
Natural Infection of Sandfly Vector and Reservoir Hosts Species with Leishmania Parasites in Mt. Elgon Cave Habitats in Kenya
Authors: Ombaka Kennedy Ombula , Ngeiywa Moses M. , Makwali Judith
Published: February 2023

Leishmaniasis is a major public health problem caused by a parasite of the genus Leishmania which is transmitted through the bite of an infected female phlebotomine sandfly. However, the disease epidemiology on interactions of causative agents, reservoir hosts, and vectors in areas where there is a high prevalence of the disease needs to be properly understood to inform effective control. The present study was conducted to determine natural infection by Leishmania parasites in phlebotomine sandfly vectors and suspected reservoir hosts found in caves in Mount Elgon in Kenya. Sandflies, bats and rock hyraxes were found inhabiting the assessed caves in the study area. A total of 5688 sandflies collected from caves were morphologically identified and analyzed for infectivity with Leishmania parasites by molecular characterization sequencing using Cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 (COI). Giemsa-stained blood smears and spleen and liver impression smears prepared from bats, and hyraxes collected from the same caves were examined microscopically for Leishmania amastigotes. The sandflies, bats, and hyraxes were identified morphologically using taxonomic keys. The results showed that randomly selected COI sequences (n = 5) of three different morphologically identified Phlebotomus species were positive for Leishmania based on their molecular characteristics. Five species of bats were identified, and they were significantly more abundant compared to hyraxes (χ2 = 16.7845, df = 7, P = 0.0002). The bats’ species had a higher prevalence of Leishmania parasites compared to hyraxes (F = 7.342, P = 0.0043). Cardioderma cor, Chaerephon pumilus and Rhinolophus clivosus bat species had more than 5% Leishmania parasite prevalence rate. Leishmania amastigote density was significantly higher in the liver (F = 39.232, P < 0.001) compared to the density in the blood (F = 75.1124, P < 0.001) of bats and hyraxes. This study has shown that transmission of Leishmania parasites in Mt. Elgon caves involves vertebrate reservoir hosts (bats and hyraxes) and the insect vector species (sandfly). Therefore, disruption of the life cycle of the Leishmania parasites should be done by targeting these reservoir animals and the sandfly vector.
Ishikawa-Collocation Method for Nonlinear Fredholm Equations with Non-Separable Kernels
Authors: Nwaigwe Chinedu , Weli Azubuike
Published: February 2023

A fixed point method is developed on a mesh for the solution of nonlinear Fredholm equation. First, the problem is collocated at mesh points and a second order quadrature rule is used to approximate the nonlinear integral. Under the assumption of nonexpansivity of self-map, we construct an Ishikawa iteration to linearize the resulting system and approximate the solution at the mesh points. Four numerical examples are given to verify the accuracy and practicability of the method. The results show that indeed the method converges with second order of accuracy. One important lesson from this study is that the results support the claim, in previous studies, that fixed point iterations can provide reliable means of solving several nonlinear problems. It is recommended to extend this work to functional integral equations using higher order quadrature rules.
Relationship between Abnormal Cervical Findings and Abnormal Results at Hysterosalpingography in Infertile Women
Authors: Kelvin Kiridi Enefia , Chibuzor Oriji Peter , Ifeoluwa Makinde Olakunle , Chibundu Obiora , Uchenna Ugwoegbu Johnpatrick , Yao Bosrotsi Panebi , Chijioke Amadi Simeon , Ojanerohan Addah Abednigo , Daniel Adesina Adedotun
Published: February 2023

Background: Hysterosalpingography is an investigative modality used in the evaluation of the uterine cavity, fallopian tubes, and adjacent peritoneal cavity following the injection of contrast material through the cervical canal.

Objective: To determine the relationship between abnormal cervical findings and abnormal results at hysterosalpingography in infertile women.

Materials and Methods: This descriptive, cross-sectional study conducted at the Obstetrics and Gynaecology, and Radiology Departments of four health institutions in Bayelsa State, Nigeria, between June and December, 2022. Hysterosalpingography was done for 332 infertile women, after obtaining written informed consent. Data were entered into a pre-designed proforma, and analysed using Statistical Product and Service Solutions (SPSS) version 25.0. Results were presented in frequencies and percentages for categorical variables, and mean and standard deviation for continuous variables.

Results: Cervical finding was normal in only 49.7% (n=165) of the participants undergoing HSG. The abnormal cervical findings include deformed (27.7%), hyperaemic (5.7%), dull (5.7%), hard (5.7%) and short (5.4%) cervix. There was a statistically significant relationship between abnormal cervical findings during HSG and tubal blockade (ꭓ2 = 196.7; p – 0.001), presence of salpingitis (ꭓ2 = 41.1; p – 0.001), peritubal adhesion (ꭓ2 = 19.9; p – 0.001) and intrauterine adhesion (ꭓ2 = 35.62; p – 0.001).

Conclusion: Intrauterine adhesion, salpingitis, tubal blockade and peritubal adhesion on HSG is associated with some abnormal cervical findings in about half of infertile women in this study. The same pathological processes responsible for injury to the upper genital tract and tubal infertility may have caused injury to the cervix in the group of women.
The Design of Sewage Treatment Plant for Agulu Community, Nigeria
Authors: Mmonwuba N. C. , Patrick Ezenwaka , Elochukwu Caleb Chukwu
Published: February 2023

There are two basic reasons for the treatment of sewage, reuse and proper control of wastewater and water pollution, and safeguarding the public and environmental health by protecting water supplies and preventing the spread of waterborne diseases. Proper design, and construction together with good operation and maintenance are important authorities. In the present study, a comprehensive design was developed for the units of Inlet chambers for sewage treatment plants, to produce effluents which are satisfying the safe disposal or reuse prescribed by the regulatory, Screen chamber, Grit Removal Unit, sedimentation Tank, Clari-Floculator, Aeration Tank, Sludge Drying Beds, etc. as they are commonly used in the field of wastewater treatment. The plant which is designed to treat 44.625MLD of sewage generated by the inhabitants of Agulu will use as many sustainable and energy-efficient concepts as possible, while still keeping construction and maintenance costs low. The overarching goal of the project which is designed to serve for the next 3 decades is to prevent the contamination of surface water like the Agulu lake and also groundwater, while also providing clean effluent for disposal that can be further treated for consumption.
Worldwide Prevalence of Antibiotic-Associated Stevens-Johnson Syndrome and Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis
Authors: Lee Erika Yue , Knox Christopher , Phillips Elizabeth Jane
Published: February 2023

Importance

Antibiotics are an important risk for Stevens-Johnson syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis (SJS/TEN), which are the most severe types of drug hypersensitivity reaction with a mortality rate up to 50%. To our knowledge, no global systematic review has described antibiotic-associated SJS/TEN.

Objective

To evaluate the prevalence of antibiotics associated with SJS/TEN worldwide.

Data Sources

The MEDLINE and Embase databases were searched for experimental and observational studies that described SJS/TEN risks since database inception to February 22, 2022.

Study Selection

Included studies adequately described SJS/TEN origins and specified the antibiotics associated with SJS/TEN.

Data Extraction and Synthesis

Two reviewers (E.Y.L. and C.K.) independently selected the studies, extracted the data, and assessed the risk of bias. A meta-analysis using a random-effects model was performed in the studies that described patient-level associations. Subgroup analyses were performed to explore the heterogeneity. The risk of bias was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute checklist, and the certainty of evidence was rated using the GRADE (Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation) approach.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Prevalence of antibiotic-associated SJS/TEN was presented as pooled proportions with 95% CIs.

Results

Among the 64 studies included in the systematic review, there were 38 studies that described patient-level associations; the meta-analysis included these 38 studies with 2917 patients to determine the prevalence of single antibiotics associated with SJS/TEN. The pooled proportion of antibiotics associated with SJS/TEN was 28% (95% CI, 24%-33%), with moderate certainty of evidence. Among antibiotic-associated SJS/TEN, the sulfonamide class was associated with 32% (95% CI, 22%-44%) of cases, followed by penicillins (22%; 95% CI, 17%-28%), cephalosporins (11%; 95% CI, 6%-17%), fluoroquinolones (4%; 95% CI, 1%-7%), and macrolides (2%; 95% CI, 1%-5%). There was a statistically significant heterogeneity in the meta-analysis, which could be partially explained in the subgroup analysis by continents. The overall risk of bias was low using the Joanna Briggs Institute checklist for case series.

Conclusion and Relevance

In this systematic review and meta-analysis of all case series, antibiotics were associated with more than one-quarter of SJS/TEN cases described worldwide, and sulfonamide antibiotics remained the most important association. These findings highlight the importance of antibiotic stewardship, clinician education and awareness, and weighing the risk-benefit assessment of antibiotic choice and duration.
Cationic Conjugated Microporous Polymers Coating for Dual‐Modal Antimicrobial Inactivation with Self‐Sterilization and Reusability Functions
Authors: Wang Yuze , Yuan Qiong , Li Meiqi , Tang Yanli
Published: February 2023

COVID‐19 pandemic outbreak poses a great threat to human health. Face masks have been considered as important personal protective equipment to prevent the COVID‐19 transmission. However, pathogens can survive up to several days on the fabrics of commercial masks, which increases the risk of direct/indirect microbial transmission. Herein, new cationic conjugated microporous polymers (CCMPs)‐based coating is developed, which possesses extended π‐conjugated skeletons and massive quaternary ammonium salt (QAS) groups, exhibiting dual‐modal antimicrobial inactivation, including sunlight‐driven photodynamic sterilization through the generation of reactive oxygen species and contact sterilization through QAS groups. As a result, the CCMPs coatings can rapidly and efficiently eradicate 99% of model microbes, such as Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus under solar illumination, and also ensure the great antimicrobial effect in the absence of light. More importantly, the CCMPs coatings exhibit excellent durability, reusability as well as antimicrobial stability in humid environment. Contributing to the outstanding processability and formability, CCMPs can be in situ synthesized and coated over fibers through a simple spray procedure. Taken together, the design provides a promising strategy for developing reusable and self‐sterilizing antimicrobial fabrics, particularly for the application of face masks to tackle infectious pathogen and viruses in daily protection and medical applications.
Achieving Efficient Light‐Emitting Diodes by Controlling Phase Distribution of Quasi‐2D Perovskites
Authors: Yang Kaiyu , Mao Jinliang , Zheng Jinping , Yu Yongshen , Xu Baolin , Zhang Qingkai , Weng Xukeng , Lin Qiuxiang , Guo Tailiang , Li Fushan
Published: February 2023

Quasi‐2D perovskite light‐emitting diodes (PeLEDs) are promising candidates to realize superior luminescent. However, the poorly controlled phase distribution and surface defects hinder the improvement of the device's performance. Here, by introducing rubidium bromide (RbBr) to tune the crystallization kinetics of quasi‐2D perovskites, more uniform phase distribution is achieved through the suppression of medium‐n phases, resulting in narrower emission spectrum and more efficient energy transfer. Meanwhile, the defects are effectively passivated by the addition of RbBr. As a result, the photoluminescence quantum yield (PLQY) of quasi‐2D perovskite films increases significantly from 45.6% to 81.3%, and the maximum external quantum efficiency (EQE) of PeLEDs reaches 18.92%. This finding provides a new insight into the phase distribution control of quasi‐2D perovskites and the further improvement of PeLEDs.
Molecularly Thin BaTiO3 Nanosheets with Stable Ferroelectric Response
Authors: Hagiwara Kazuki , Byun Ki Nam , Morita Shu , Yamamoto Eisuke , Kobayashi Makoto , Liu Xiaoyan , Osada Minoru
Published: February 2023

2D ferroelectrics provide great promise for future electronics owing to their unique properties at 2D limit. Although simple perovskite oxides (such as BaTiO3 and PbTiO3) are an important target for 2D ferroelectrics, controlled synthesis of 2D nanosheets still remains a challenge. Here, this issue is addressed by using a new chemical protocol; unilamellar Ti0.87O2 nanosheets can serve as templates, guiding the solvothermal synthesis of 2D BaTiO3 nanosheets with a molecularly thin thickness (< 3 nm). Raman spectroscopy, second‐harmonic generation, and transmission electron microscopy characterizations suggest the formation of tetragonal ferroelectric BaTiO3 nanosheets. Based on piezoresponse force microscopy, BaTiO3 nanosheets exhibit a clear ferroelectric response with a high Curie temperature (≈100 °C) even down to 1.8 nm thickness. This study provides new opportunities to investigate perovskite ferroelectrics with the critical thickness.
Tailoring the d‐Band Center over Isomorphism Pyrite Catalyst for Optimized Intrinsic Affinity to Intermediates in Lithium–Oxygen Batteries
Authors: Li Deyuan , Zhao Lanling , Wang Jun , Yang Chunpeng
Published: February 2023

Rechargeable lithium–oxygen batteries (LOBs) are regarded as one of the most promising candidates for the next generation of energy storage devices. Nevertheless, the lack of understanding of the relationships between structure, property, and performance of catalysts limits the rational development of efficient cathode catalysts, and therefore, hinders the commercial application of LOBs. Herein, a d‐band center regulation strategy is proposed to construct an isomorphism composite of NiS2‐CoS2@nitrogen‐doped carbon (NiS2‐CoS2@NC) as an advanced cathode catalyst for boosting the electrocatalytic activities of LOBs. Density functional theory calculations reveal that the introduction of Ni atoms not only redistributes the internal charges on the isomorphism structure but also modulates the adsorption capacities of the intermediates by tuning the d‐band center, thus promoting oxygen reduction reaction/oxygen evolution reaction kinetics and reducing the reaction overpotentials. As expected, NiS2‐CoS2@NC catalyzed LOBs present superior electrochemical performance including large initial discharge/charge specific capacity of 14 551/13 563 mAh g−1, an ultralong cycle life over 490 cycles at a current density of 500 mA g−1, and excellent rate performance. The insight into the regulation of the adsorption capacity of the catalyst by tailoring its d‐band center facilitates the rational construction of efficient electrocatalysts for LOBs and other electrocatalytic systems.
Peptide Bond Formation in the Protonated Serine Dimer Following Vacuum UV Photon‐Induced Excitation
Authors: Licht Ori , Barreiro‐Lage Darío , Rousseau Patrick , Giuliani Alexandre , Milosavljević Aleksandar R. , Isaak Avinoam , Mastai Yitzhak , Albeck Amnon , Singh Raj , Nguyen Vy T. T. , Nahon Laurent , Martínez‐Fernández Lara , Díaz‐Tendero Sergio , Toker Yoni
Published: February 2023

Possible routes for intra‐cluster bond formation (ICBF) in protonated serine dimers have been studied. We found no evidence of ICBF following low energy collision‐induced dissociation (in correspondence with previous works), however, we do observe clear evidence for ICBF following photon absorption in the 4.6–14 eV range. Moreover, the comparison of photon‐induced dissociation measurements of the protonated serine dimer to those of a protonated serine dipeptide provides evidence that ICBF, in this case, involves peptide bond formation (PBF). The experimental results are supported by ab initio molecular dynamics and exploration of several excited state potential energy surfaces, unraveling a pathway for PBF following photon absorption. The combination of experiments and theory provides insight into the PBF mechanisms in clusters of amino acids, and reveals the importance of electronic excited states reached upon UV/VUV light excitation.
Stable Operation of Lithium Metal Batteries with Aggressive Cathode Chemistries at 4.9 V
Authors: Piao Zhihong , Ren Hong‐Rui , Lu Gongxun , Jia Kai , Tan Junyang , Wu Xinru , Zhuang Zhaofeng , Han Zhiyuan , Li Chuang , Gao Runhua , Tao Xinyong , Zhou Guangmin , Cheng Hui‐Ming
Published: February 2023

High‐voltage lithium metal batteries (LMBs) pose severe challenges for the matching of electrolytes with aggressive electrodes, especially at low temperatures. Here, we report a rational modification of the Li+solvation structure to extend the voltage and temperature operating ranges of conventional electrolytes. Ion‐ion and ion‐dipole interactions as well as the electrochemical window of solvents were tailored to improve oxidation stability and de‐solvation kinetics of the electrolyte. Meanwhile, robust and elastic B and F‐rich interphases are formed on both electrodes. Such optimization enables Li||LiNi0.5Mn1.5O4cells (90.2 % retention after 400 cycles) and Li||LiNi0.6Co0.2Mn0.2O2(NCM622) cells (74.0 % retention after 200 cycles) to cycle stably at an ultra‐high voltage of 4.9 V. Moreover, NCM622 cells deliver a considerable capacity of 143.5 mAh g−1at −20 °C, showing great potential for practical uses. The proposed strategy sheds light on further optimization for high‐voltage LMBs.
Posterior cingulate cortex targeted real‐time fMRI neurofeedback recalibrates functional connectivity with the amygdala, posterior insula, and default‐mode network in PTSD
Authors: Lieberman Jonathan M. , Rabellino Daniela , Densmore Maria , Frewen Paul A. , Steyrl David , Scharnowski Frank , Théberge Jean , Neufeld Richard W. J. , Schmahl Christian , Jetly Rakesh , Narikuzhy Sandhya , Lanius Ruth A. , Nicholson Andrew A.
Published: February 2023

Background

Alterations within large‐scale brain networks—namely, the default mode (DMN) and salience networks (SN)—are present among individuals with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Previous real‐time functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) and electroencephalography neurofeedback studies suggest that regulating posterior cingulate cortex (PCC; the primary hub of the posterior DMN) activity may reduce PTSD symptoms and recalibrate altered network dynamics. However, PCC connectivity to the DMN and SN during PCC‐targeted fMRI neurofeedback remains unexamined and may help to elucidate neurophysiological mechanisms through which these symptom improvements may occur.

Methods

Using a trauma/emotion provocation paradigm, we investigated psychophysiological interactions over a single session of neurofeedback among PTSD (n = 14) and healthy control (n = 15) participants. We compared PCC functional connectivity between regulate (in which participants downregulated PCC activity) and view (in which participants did not exert regulatory control) conditions across the whole‐brain as well as in a priori specified regions‐of‐interest.

Results

During regulate as compared to view conditions, only the PTSD group showed significant PCC connectivity with anterior DMN (dmPFC, vmPFC) and SN (posterior insula) regions, whereas both groups displayed PCC connectivity with other posterior DMN areas (precuneus/cuneus). Additionally, as compared with controls, the PTSD group showed significantly greater PCC connectivity with the SN (amygdala) during regulate as compared to view conditions. Moreover, linear regression analyses revealed that during regulate as compared to view conditions, PCC connectivity to DMN and SN regions was positively correlated to psychiatric symptoms across all participants.

Conclusion

In summary, observations of PCC connectivity to the DMN and SN provide emerging evidence of neural mechanisms underlying PCC‐targeted fMRI neurofeedback among individuals with PTSD. This supports the use of PCC‐targeted neurofeedback as a means by which to recalibrate PTSD‐associated alterations in neural connectivity within the DMN and SN, which together, may help to facilitate improved emotion regulation abilities in PTSD.
Soluble Protein Content, Bioactive Compounds and the Antioxidant Activity in Seeds of Ten Rheum tanguticum Lines from Qinghai‐Tibet Plateau
Authors: Wang Lingling , Zhou Guoying , Zhao Shuo , Yang Yang
Published: February 2023

Rheum tanguticum (Rh. tanguticum) is a Chinese medicinal plant traditionally used in the treatment of constipation. As a byproduct, the seeds of this plant are rich in nutrients and phytochemicals. This study aimed to determine and assess seed germination ability, seed physical characteristics, soluble protein content, chemical constituents and antioxidant capacity from different breeding lines, to promote the development and utilization of seed resources. Significant differences were observed for the soluble protein content and antioxidant assays among the ten lines. The contents of aloe‐emodin, rhein and catechins accumulated in seeds were extremely low and significantly different from those in roots. In contrast, emodin and chrysophanol were abundant in seeds, and significant differences were observed between seeds and roots. It was found that associations between gallic acid and catechins were not significant for either soluble protein or antioxidant capacity. There was a significantly positive correlation between the contents of four anthraquinones (aloe‐emodin, rhein, emodin and chrysophanol) and soluble protein. Seeds have potent antioxidative capacity and relatively high levels of soluble protein content. The rich chemical composition of seeds can be widely used in the medical industry for further development.
Dehydrogenation of Glycerol for CO2 Reduction in One‐Pot Production of Lactic Acid and Formic Acid with Ru‐MACHO
Authors: Jin Mengyu , Wang Chenlu , Song Xin , Song Yuanbo , Shen Zheng , Zhang Yalei
Published: February 2023

Dehydrogenation of glycerol for CO2 reduction can simultaneously produce lactic acid (LA) and formic acid (FA) products with high added value, greatly improving the atomic economy and the actual benefits. We report that Ru‐MACHO (regR) as a catalyst can satisfy the requirements of parallel reaction at the same time. The designed experiment confirms that under the conditions of 200 °C and 48 h, 3 mg Ru‐MACHO (regR) catalyst can obtain FA and LA yields of 40 % and 45 %, respectively. The possible reaction path of glycerol dehydrogenation for CO2 reduction is confirmed by the isotopic tracer technique and nuclear magnetic resonance analysis.
Co2+ to Al3+ Substitution Induced Dual‐Site Synergistic Catalysis to Friedel‐Crafts Alkylation Reactions
Authors: Yang Yao , Sun Yurong , Gao Wenliang , Yang Tao
Published: February 2023

The dual‐site synergistic effect in heterogeneous catalysis is quite interesting, and also complex because at least two substrate molecules are adsorbed or activated on the catalyst surface, which apparently needs two spatially separated and functionally independent active sites. It would become more difficult when the substrate molecules are large ones. The replacement of Al3+ in Al4B6O15 lattice with Co2+ leads to the formation of unsaturated Co2+ (4‐fold coordination) along with oxygen vacancies (Ov). The former one behaves as a medium‐strength Lewis acid site, and can adsorb and activate molecules with a nitro group (e. g., β‐nitrostyrene). The latter one can adsorb and activate oxygen species, which further activates the indole derivatives. Next, the spatially separated dual sites on the catalyst surface can synergistically and efficiently catalyze their Friedel‐Crafts alkylation reactions under mild conditions. The high durability can be proved by the as‐maintained high yields, that is, 98, 93, 96, 92 and 90 % for 5 runs, respectively. The reaction kinetics obey the second‐order characteristic. Annealing under hydrogen condition can further generate more surficial Ov, leading to an improvement to the catalytic activity. A simple and probably routine aliovalent doping endows such a complex synergistic catalysis involving two large substrate molecules, providing an inspired perspective of developing dual‐site catalysts.
Stability of Photocathodes: A Review on Principles, Design, and Strategies
Authors: Wang Qinglong , Liu Jinfeng , Li Qiuye , Yang Jianjun
Published: February 2023

Photoelectrochemical devices based on semiconductor photoelectrode can directly convert and store solar energy into chemical fuels. Although the efficient photoelectrodes with commercially valuable solar‐to‐fuel energy conversion efficiency have been reported over past decades, one of the most enormous challenges is the stability of the photoelectrode due to corrosion during operation. Thus, it is of paramount importance for developing a stable photoelectrode to deploy solar‐fuel production. This Review commences with a fundamental understanding of thermodynamics for photoelectrochemical reactions and the fundamentals of photocathodes. Then, the commercial application of photoelectrochemical technology is prospected. We specifically focus on recent strategies for designing photocathodes with long‐term stability, including energy band alignment, hole transport/storage/blocking layer, spatial decoupling, grafting molecular catalysts, protective/passivation layer, surface element reconstruction, and solvent effects. Based on the insights gained from these effective strategies, we propose an outlook of key aspects that address the challenges for development of stable photoelectrodes in future work.
Hospital readmissions in children with new‐onset infantile epileptic spasms syndrome
Authors: Harini Chellamani , Yuskaitis Christopher J. , Singh Avantika , McHugh Trevor , Liu Shanshan , DeLeo Michelle , Gupta Nishtha , Marti Candice , Zhang Bo , Libenson Mark H. , Berry Jay G.
Published: February 2023

Objective

To describe inpatient resource use in the 2 years following infantile epileptic spasms syndrome (IESS) diagnosis, examine the association between clinical/demographic variables and incidence of readmission, and identify risk factors/reasons for frequent readmissions.

Methods

Retrospective cohort analysis of readmissions (scheduled/unscheduled) within the first 2 years following IESS diagnosis, details of readmissions (number/time between rehospitalizations, and length of stay), demographic/clinical variables, and reasons for readmissions were collected. Negative binomial regression analysis evaluated associations between incidence of readmissions (both scheduled/unscheduled and unscheduled alone) and demographic/clinical factors. Logistic regression assessed the risk of having recurrent readmissions (≥5 readmissions).

Results

Among 93 (60% males) new‐onset IESS patients, there were 394 readmissions (56% scheduled and 44% unscheduled) within 2‐years following IESS diagnosis. Mean length of stay was 3.5 days (SD: 5.9). Readmissions occurred in 82 patients (88%) and 37 (40%) experienced ≥5 readmissions. On multivariate regression analysis, readmissions were increased with use of multiple first‐line treatments for IESS (P = 0.006), technology assistance (P ≤ 0.001), and multispecialty care (P = 0.01); seizure freedom (P = 0.015) and known etiology (P = 0.011) lowered the incidence of readmissions. Examining unscheduled readmissions separately, increased readmissions occurred with public insurance (P = 0.013), technology use (P ≤ 0.0.001), and multispecialty care (P = 0.013); seizure freedom decreased unscheduled readmissions (P = 0.006). Technology assistance (G‐tube, NG tube, VP shunt, and tracheostomy use) increased the odds (P = 0.007) for recurrent readmissions. Reasons for readmissions included EEG monitoring (protocol driven for verification of IESS remission/characterization of events/EEG surveillance/presurgical monitoring) (51%), acute medical issues (21%), and seizure exacerbation (15%). Protocol‐driven readmissions declined an estimated 52% following protocol modification during the study.

Significance

In the 2 years following IESS diagnosis, there is substantial inpatient resource use with nearly 40% experiencing ≥5 readmissions (mostly epilepsy related). Since readmissions are increased by intrinsic patient characteristics such as medical complexity (technology use and multispecialty care) or epilepsy‐related issues, the preventability of readmissions is uncertain, except for protocol‐driven ones.
Modeling uncertainty in financial tail risk: A forecast combination and weighted quantile approach
Authors: Storti Giuseppe , Wang Chao
Published: February 2023

A novel forecast combination and weighted quantile‐based tail risk forecasting framework is proposed, aiming to reduce the impact of modeling uncertainty. The proposed approach is based on a two‐step estimation procedure. The first step involves the combination of value‐at‐risk (VaR) forecasts at a grid of quantile levels. A range of parametric and semiparametric models is selected as the model universe in the forecast combination procedure. The quantile forecast combination weights are estimated by optimizing the quantile loss. In the second step, the expected shortfall (ES) is computed as a weighted average of combined quantiles. The quantiles weighting structure for ES forecasting is determined by minimizing a strictly consistent joint VaR and ES loss function of the Fissler–Ziegel class. The proposed framework is applied to six stock market indices and its forecasting performance is compared to each individual model in the universe, a simple average approach and a weighted quantile approach. The forecasting results support the proposed framework.
Small‐diameter tunneling in difficult ground – Analysis of TBM performance in hard rock
Authors: Lehmann Gabriel , Käsling Heiko , Praetorius Steffen , Seng Frederic , Thuro Kurosch
Published: February 2023

Small‐diameter tunneling in hard rock is increasingly widespread due to the need for new and longer utility tunnels comprising sewer, stormwater, freshwater, or hydropower as well as cable tunnels and casings for pipelines transporting gas or hydrogen. Utility tunnels have to deal with a wide range of geological settings, like small overburden, weathered rock, rock–soil transitions, as well as fractured or intact hard rock with high strength and abrasivity. A database has been created including 35 hard rock projects with diameters between 1 and 5 m as well as more than 70,000 m of tunnel alignments, with a median drive length of less than 500 m. Challenges in creating it and some early interpretations based on the contents of the database are presented. Details about an exemplary pipe jacking project in basement rocks in Brittany, France, are given. The large variety in this small‐diameter range in hard rock includes different TBM types, cutterhead designs, cutter types, and geotechnical conditions. Potential pitfalls in small‐diameter TBM data analysis are shown and general drive parameter trends and penetration prediction approaches are presented and set in relation to the geotechnical conditions. Our analysis shows that difficult ground conditions do not only incorporate rocks with very high strength, but also generally weak rocks like schist or limestone could be responsible for low penetration rates and high thrust forces.
Dysregulation of ADAM10 shedding activity in naked mole‐rat fibroblasts is due to deficient phosphatidylserine externalization
Authors: Urriola‐Muñoz Paulina , Pattison Luke A. , Smith Ewan St. J.
Published: February 2023

The naked mole‐rat (NMR, Heterocephalus glaber) is of significant interest to biogerontological research, rarely developing age‐associated diseases, such as cancer. The transmembrane glycoprotein CD44 is upregulated in certain cancers and CD44 cleavage by a disintegrin and metalloproteinase 10 (ADAM10) regulates cellular migration. Here we provide evidence that mature ADAM10 is expressed in NMR primary skin fibroblasts (NPSF), and that ionomycin increases cell surface ADAM10 localization. However, we observed an absence of ADAM10 mediated CD44 cleavage, as well as shedding of exogenous and overexpressed betacellulin in NPSF, whereas in mouse primary skin fibroblasts ionomycin induced ADAM10‐dependent cleavage of both CD44 and betacellulin. Overexpressing a hyperactive form of the Ca2+‐dependent phospholipid scramblase ANO6 in NPSF increased phosphatidylserine (PS) externalization, which rescued the ADAM10 sheddase activity and promoted cell migration in NPSF in an ADAM10‐dependent manner. These findings suggest that dysregulation of ADAM10 shedding activity is due to a deficient PS externalization in NMR.
The maladaptive alcohol self‐administration task: An adapted novel model of alcohol seeking with negative consequences
Authors: Carlson Hannah N. , Weiner Jeffrey L.
Published: February 2023

The progression of recreational drinking to alcohol use disorder is characterized by loss of control over seeking, which involves continued use of alcohol despite negative consequences. The present study proposes a novel maladaptive alcohol self‐administration task in which animals are trained to withhold alcohol drinking in the presence of an auditory cue signaling consequence (conflict phase) but to drink freely when there is no consequence (neutral phase). These phases are performed within trial; successful performance involves waiting for the conflict phase to end and drinking during the neutral phase. We discuss the background and implementation of the task, its relation to existing models, and its relevance to the field of translational alcohol research. Importantly, we also present evidence of its efficacy. Both male and female Long–Evans rats are capable of performing the maladaptive alcohol self‐administration task for both sweetened and unsweetened alcohol solutions. Finally, we show that acute injection of a pharmacological stressor (yohimbine) significantly disrupted performance of the task in both sexes and reinforcers. We suggest the maladaptive alcohol self‐administration task may prove particularly useful in models of alcohol use disorder or vulnerability to this disorder where its application may reveal maladaptive neural circuit adaptations responsible for motivational perturbations associated with loss of control over alcohol seeking.
Role of herbicides in the decline of butterfly population and diversity
Authors: Mallick Buddhadev , Rana Sukanta , Ghosh Tuhin S.
Published: February 2023

The herbicides not only produce a lethal effect on herbs but also indirectly harm those species which use herbs as host plants during their life cycle. The adverse effect of herbicide is comparatively more than any insecticide found in the agricultural industry. Herbicides act as enzyme inhibitors that block the synthesis of essential biomolecules in herbs. Action mechanisms in which herbicides act on the plant body as well as the classification of the herbicides according to their mode of action have been recorded. Lethal effects of herbicides cause qualitative and quantitative losses of herb‐weeds and associated beneficial herbs from crop fields that lead to the decline in diversity of butterfly population. Lack of food sources, alteration of life cycle and morphological anomalies are found as a result of herbicidal interference on enzymatic reactions in butterflies. Beneficial organisms and pollinators are included within the affected ones. We selected the butterfly as it is recognized as a good indicator species. The effects of two graminicide fluazifop‐p‐butyl and sethoxydim, and a surfactant (like ‘Preference’ that help to increase penetration) were evaluated on Icaricia icarioides blackmorei and Pieris rapae in the laboratory. Glyphosate and glufosinate ammonium (GLA) kill milkweed plants (Asclepias sp.) by blocking the 5‐enolpyruvylshikimate‐3 phosphate synthase (EPSPS) enzyme. 2,4,5‐trichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4,5‐T), an herbicide used in forest and nature reserves, is toxic to springtails (Onychiurus quadriocellatus) upon direct contact resulting a disastrous effect on Monarch. Fifth instar caterpillars of skipper butterfly Calpodes ethlius die when they are fed GLA‐treated host plants. Atrazine and S‐metolachlor are the two other herbicides which are thought to have a role on milkweed plant whose leaves are the food of the larvae. Triclopyr, sethoxydim, and imazapyr are the three herbicides that reduced the adult emergence of Behr's metalmark butterfly. The objective of the study is to provide precise information regarding the relationship between herbicides and butterflies as well as the recommendation of feasible strategies for butterfly conservation with respect to weed management.
More negative charges on roots enhanced manganese(II) uptake in leguminous and non‐leguminous poaceae crops
Authors: Lu Hai‐long , Nkoh Jackson Nkoh , Xu Ren‐kou , Dong Ge , Li Jiu‐yu
Published: February 2023

BACKGROUND

Manganese (Mn) is an essential micronutrient for plants, whereas excess Mn(II) in soils leads to its toxicity to crops. Mn(II) is adsorbed onto plant roots from soil solution and then absorbed by plants. Root charge characteristics should affect Mn(II) toxicity to crops and Mn(II) uptake by the roots of the crops. However, the differences in the effects of root surface charge on the uptake of Mn(II) among various crop species are not well understood.

RESULTS

The roots of nine legumes and six non‐legume poaceae were obtained by hydroponics and the streaming potential method and spectroscopic analysis were used to measure the zeta potentials and functional groups on the roots, respectively. The results indicate that the exchangeable Mn(II) adsorbed by plant roots was significantly positively correlated with the Mn(II) accumulated in plant shoots. Legume roots carried more negative charges and functional groups than non‐legume poaceae roots, which was responsible for the larger amounts of exchangeable Mn(II) on legume roots in 2 h and the Mn(II) accumulated in their shoots in 48 h. Coexisting cations, such as Ca2+ and Mg2+, were most effective in decreasing Mn(II) taken up by roots and accumulated in shoots than K+ and Na+. This was because Ca2+ and Mg2+ could compete with Mn(II) for active sites on plant roots more strongly compared to K+ and Na+.

CONCLUSION

The root surface charge and functional groups are two important factors influencing Mn(II) uptake by roots and accumulation in plant shoots. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Assessing the distribution of elusive non‐game carnivores: are hunters valuable informants?
Authors: Descalzo Esther , Ferreras Pablo , Martínez‐Jauregui María , Soliño Mario , Glikman Jenny Anne , Díaz‐Ruiz Francisco , Delibes‐Mateos Miguel
Published: February 2023

Public surveys can be valuable tools to collect information on wildlife distribution. Our objective was to improve the knowledge on the distribution and expanding areas of the Egyptian mongoose (Herpestes ichneumon) in central Spain by using an on‐line questionnaire to hunters. We assessed the reliability of information that hunters provided by comparing it with reports from wildlife professionals. Our results show a high overall congruence but significantly different information provided by hunters and professionals on the distribution of the Egyptian mongoose, suggesting that both sources provide unique data for the management of non‐game species. For example, hunters reported greater mongoose presence than professionals in areas to the east of Toledo and Ciudad Real provinces, for the whole distribution and core area of the species, suggesting that hunters could help to detect other areas where the species exists. Overall, our findings stress the importance of engaging hunters in wildlife conservation, as they can share valuable information on wildlife species, including those that are not hunted.