bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Semi-Detail Soil Survey and Land Suitability Evaluation for Sugarcane Production at Tungan Ahmadu District, Koko-Besse LGA Kebbi State Nigeria
Authors: Daniel Yato , Sani Noma Samaila , Abdulkadir Nura , Sanda Ahmad Rabo
Published: March 2022

A semi-detailed soil survey and land suitability evaluation for sugarcane production was conducted at Tungan Ahmadu Koko-Besse LGA, of Kebbi State Nigeria to obtain comprehensive soil data for characterization and classification. The aim was to generate detailed information on the properties, genesis, land characteristics, and classification of soils for their suitability for sugarcane production. The study was carried out in a 4,000ha land area. An interval of 250x250m was used for augering and surface sampling of the soils at a scale of 1:25.000. In each soil mapping unit that was identified a soil profile pit was dug, described and soils sampled in each horizon from bottom-up, to minimize contamination by falling debris and was analyzed in the laboratory. Each soil profile pit was dug to a standard size (200 cm long, 100 cm wide, and a maximum depth of 200 cm or until an impenetrable layer or water table was encountered. Each pit was described regarding its full range of morphological characteristics according to International Standard these include soil depth, horizon thickness, the color of matrix and mottles, texture, structure, consistency, porosity, included materials, roots, and horizon boundary. In addition, records of vegetation/land use, slope, depth to the water table, and internal drainage status was obtained for each profile. Measured variables in the data set were analyzed using descriptive statistics such as means and weighted average. Seven soil mapping units tagged TGA1, TGA2, TGA3, TGA4, TGA5, TGA6, and TGA7 were identified based on landforms and soil properties. The soils are slightly acidic (6.30) to moderately acidic (5.60) had low total nitrogen, organic carbon, and CEC hence low fertility. The soils in the study area are moderately deep, poorly drained, and generally loamy sand to sandy in texture. Based on the USDA Soil Taxonomy classification system, three soil units were identified as TGA1, TGA4, TGA5 and TGA6 (Haplustepts), TGA2 and TGA7 (Haplustalfs), and TGA3 (Terriorthents) which correlate according to the World Reference Base (WRB) as Luvisols, Arenosols, and Fluvisols respectively. Analyses on climate, topography, physical soil properties, wetness and fertility suitability at the research site returned results of TGA2, TGA3, TGA4, TGA5 and TGA6, moderately suitable (S2) while TGA1 and TGA7 are marginally suitable (S3) with limited factors of physical and chemical properties.
Characterization of Some Perennial Pigmented Tea Accessions of Assam
Authors: Boruah Jyotish , Smith Gogoi Aditi , Bhuyan R.P.
Published: March 2022

Tea leaves has high antioxidant activity mainly due to presence of high amount of flavonoids and to some extent presence of pigments and has been a potential important raw material for the pharmaceutical industry. Therefore a study had been under taken to evaluate twenty (20 nos.) pigmented tea accessions exhibiting morphological variations of Experimental Garden for Plantation Crops, Assam Agricultural University, Assam to profile based on shoot growth and biochemical characters by field survey and laboratory investigation during the period 2017-18. Post hoc analysis was used to test the significance level and correlation similarity co-efficient matrix was used to analyze the genetic relationship among clones.

The plucking point density which is an important criteria from yield point of view was found to be highest in THT 028 (0.158 g) with maximum fresh weight of young shoot for both Light Prune (LP) and Medium Skiff (MS) years whereas the maximum dry weight was found in THT 035 (0.036 g) followed by THT 028 (0.035 g) in both LP and MS years. An increasing trend of, antioxidant and total catechin content observed from rain flush to autumn flush in all the germplasms. The germplasms with purple young shoot colour THT 024, THT 032 and THT 039 had the highest anthocyanin content (39 mg/l, 43.7 mg/l and 40.56 mg/l respectively) and they can be further studied for development of specialty tea.  The germplasms with higher catechin content (THT 027, THT 030 and THT 034) can be studied for development of parent material for green tea manufacturing. On hierarchical cluster analysis based on dendogram, THT 024, THT 032 and THT 039 formed discriminated clusters on the basis of shoot characters and biochemical characters which can be selected for future breeding programme.
Studies on Syrup Preparation from Mango (Mangifera indica L.), Citrus (Citrus aurantifolia Swingle.), Aloe Vera (Aloe barbadensis Miller.) and Ginger (Zingiber officinale Rosc.) Blends
Authors: . Harendra , Deen Bhagwan
Published: March 2022

The present investigation was carried out at Post Graduate Laboratory of Department of Fruit Science, College of Horticulture and Forestry, A.N.D. University of Agriculture & Technology, Kumarganj, Ayodhya (U.P.) during the year 2019-2020. The blend beverages of fruits, medicinal plants and spices are rich source of nutrients, medicinal properties and flavors to meet the consumers demand in National and International markets.  25 per cent of blend comprising 55 per cent mango pulp, 25 per cent kagzi lime juice, 10 per cent Aloe vera gel and 10 per cent ginger juice was found best on 9- point hedonic scale for the preparation of syrup with 70 per cent TSS and 1.20 per cent acidity than other blend combinations viz., 100, 0, 0 and 0 percent (T1); 0, 100, 0 and 0 percent (T2); 0, 0, 100 and 0 percent (T3); 0, 0, 0 and 100 percent (T4); 25, 25, 25 and 25 percent (T5); 40, 20, 20 and 20 percent (T6); 70, 10, 10 and 10 percent (T7); 20, 40, 20 and 20 percent (T8) and 50, 20, 15 and 15 percent (T10), mango pulp, kagzi lime juice, Aloe vera gel and ginger juice, respectively. The TSS, acidity, reducing sugars and total sugars increased whereas, vitamin-A, vitamin-C, non-reducing sugar and organoleptic score decreased continuously up to the end of the storage period under ambient temperature (20.1-29.40C). Moreover, it had been found that syrup organoleptically acceptable up to 5 months of storage in case of both glass and polypet bottles. This study indicates that mango, kagzi lime, Aloe vera and ginger can be utilized for palatable syrup making beneficial for the consumers in terms of taste, color, flavor, medicinal and therapeutic properties.
An Assessment of Causative Factors of Building Collapse using Physical Analysis Tests: The Case of Oko, Anambra State, Nigeria
Authors: Obiora C. O. , Ezennia I. S. , Bert-Okonkwo C. B. N. , Chukwuemerie O. E.
Published: March 2022

Incessant building collapses in Anambra State Nigeria is posing serious challenges to all the stakeholders in the building industry - building consultants, governments, developers, landlords and users. This has evoked great concern to all key players of the building industry. Thus, this study assessed the causative factors of building collapses in one of the cases, a collapsed uncompleted 3-story building which was reported in Oko town, Anambra State, Nigeria. A qualitative methodology involving subsoil and geotechnical investigation and also destructive testing of collapsed structural elements including sandcrete blocks, concrete and reinforcement bars; to establish the subsoil conditions, compressive strength, the yield stress as well as ductility of the reinforcements bars was adopted for this study. The results of the test carried out on the mass concrete, revealed a compressive strength ranging from 1.4N/mm2 to 3.1N/mm2 (standard compressive strength of 25N/mm2), 6” solid block ranging from 0.3N/mm2 to 0.4N/mm2 and 6” hollow block ranging from 0.2N/mm2, (standard strength value of 1.5 N/mm2 for a non-load bearing sandcrete block in accordance to NIS: 587:2007). The tensile stress of the reinforcement bars (12mm and 16mm) ranging from 280.29N/mm2 to 303.91N/mm2 (According to NIS: 117:2004, standard yield stress value of 410N/mm2 and ductility of 12%). The CPT revealed that the subsoil is generally too soft and the fine aggregate (sand) was poor for concreting. The findings suggest that poor foundation structure, inappropriate mix of concrete, the use of substandard materials, inadequate reinforcement and poor project supervision, contributed to the structural failure that lead to the collapse of the building. Therefore, this research recommends that mandatory, periodic or conditional structural integrity assessment of buildings in use and under construction becomes an exclusive preserve of highly qualified construction professionals. Standard organization of Nigeria should be vigilant to ensure that building materials imported into the country conforms to standard requirements especially the reinforcement bars.
Exploring the Therapeutic Effect of Yoga to Enhance Psychological Well-being among Adolescent Girl Students
Authors: Gupta Madhu K. , Singh Amool R.
Published: March 2022

Background: Globally, Yoga is known as the wealth of India, the most oldest and powerful interventional method to develop healthy physical, mental/psychological, and spiritual up liftmen.

Aim: The present study’s aim is to see the role of yogic practices in enhancing psychological well-being among adolescent girl students.

Methodology: A total of 60 unmarried adolescent girls were selected according to inclusion and exclusion criteria, between the age group 13-15 years and randomly divided into 02 groups (30-30 in experimental and control group). A Checklist for Psychological well-being prepared by the researcher at RINPAS has been used to assess adolescents’ psychological well-being. All participants were assessed at the beginning (pre) and after 03 months (post). The experimental group received a structured yogic intervention program (techniques included Surya-Namaskara, Pranayama, and Yoga-Nidra; 24 sessions).

Result: Result has found significant changes on experimental group participants on various domains of psychological well-being at 0.01 and 0.05 levels as compared to control group participants.

Conclusion: The result found that yogic practice is quite effective to enhance psychological well-being among adolescent girl students. As an intervention yoga and its techniques have the potential to develop positive healthy mental health, self-awareness as well as mental relaxation.
Willingness-To-Pay for COVID-19 Vaccine in Low and Middle-Income Countries Compared to High-Income Countries: A Systematic Review
Authors: Yuliani Rizka Prita , Kristina Susi Ari , Endarti Dwi
Published: March 2022

Aims: By focusing largely on lower-income countries, this study adds to the evolving worldwide picture of willingness to pay for COVID19 vaccination. Willingness-To-Pay (WTP) values for the pandemic COVID-19 vaccine, which provide monetary indicators of community preferences for vaccines, could help policymakers in low- and middle-income countries determine priorities for health resource utilization.

Study Design: Systematic Review.

Methodology: A systematic review of the study on willingness to pay for COVID-19 vaccine in the Pubmed, Science Direct, and Scopus through January 2022 was performed to find relevant articles published between January 2020 and January 2022. Following PRISMA guidelines, the study yielded 19 English-language studies (12 studies in low- and middle-income countries, 2 in high-income countries, and 5 in upper-middle-income countries) that evaluated WTP for COVID-19 vaccines, either existing or hypothetical vaccines. All WTP values extracted were converted to 2021 United States Dollars (USD) for comparability

Results: This study showed that the willingness to pay in low-middle-income countries varied from USD 1.2 to USD 85.92. Studies conducted in the same country might have different WTP values. Average WTP in low-income countries have lower WTPs than high and upper-middle-income countries. In addition to being in line with differences in GDP, cases and deaths from COVID-19 in high-income countries are higher than in low-income countries.

Conclusion: From low-middle income countries evaluation, the high value of WTP is not consistently aligned with the high value of GDP per capita from each country. The finding demonstrates that the factors that affect the value of WTP are not only the GDP per capita of the country. The perception of risk, the WTP evaluation method used, and several other factors that need to be studied further also affect the amount of WTP.
A Light‐Curable and Tunable Extracellular Matrix Hydrogel for In Situ Suture‐Free Corneal Repair
Authors: Yazdanpanah Ghasem , Shen Xiang , Nguyen Tara , Anwar Khandaker N. , Jeon Oju , Jiang Yizhou , Pachenari Mohammad , Pan Yayue , Shokuhfar Tolou , Rosenblatt Mark I. , Alsberg Eben , Djalilian Ali R.
Published: March 2022

Corneal injuries are a major cause of blindness worldwide. To restore corneal integrity and clarity, there is a need for regenerative biointegrating materials for in situ repair and replacement of corneal tissue. Here, light‐curable cornea matrix (LC‐COMatrix), a tunable material derived from decellularized porcine cornea extracellular matrix containing un‐denatured collagen and sulfated glycosaminoglycans is introduced. It is a functionalized hydrogel with proper swelling behavior, biodegradation, and viscosity that can be cross‐linked in situ with visible light, providing significantly enhanced biomechanical strength, stability, and adhesiveness. The cross‐linked LC‐COMatrix strongly adheres to human corneas ex vivo and effectively closes full‐thickness corneal perforations with tissue loss. Likewise, in vivo, LC‐COMatrix seals large corneal perforations, replaces partial‐corneal stromal defects and biointegrates into the tissue in rabbit models. LC‐COMatrix is a natural ready‐to‐apply biointegrating adhesive that is representative of native corneal matrix with potential applications in corneal and ocular surgeries.
Design of Active Defects in Semiconductors: 3D Electron Diffraction Revealed Novel Organometallic Lead Bromide Phases Containing Ferrocene as Redox Switches
Authors: Fillafer Nicole , Kuper Henning , Schaate Andreas , Locmelis Sonja , Becker Joerg August , Krysiak Yaşar , Polarz Sebastian
Published: March 2022

Once the optical, electronic, or photocatalytic properties of a semiconductor are set by adjusting composition, crystal phase, and morphology, one cannot change them anymore, respectively, on demand. Materials enabling postsynthetic and reversible switching of features such as absorption coefficient, bandgap, or charge carrier dynamics are highly desired. Hybrid perovskites facilitate exceptional possibilities for progress in the field of smart semiconductors because active organic molecules become an integral constituent of the crystalline structure. This paper reports the integration of ferrocene ligands into semiconducting 2D phases based on lead bromide. The complex crystal structures of the resulting, novel ferrovskite (≃ ferrocene perovskite) phases are determined by 3D electron diffraction. The ferrocene ligands exhibit strong structure‐directing effects on the 2D hybrid phases, which is why the formation of exotic types of face‐ and edge‐sharing lead bromide octahedra is observed. The bandgap of the materials ranges from 3.06 up to 3.51 eV, depending on the connectivity of the octahedra. By deploying the redox features of ferrocene, one can create defect states or even a defect band leading to control over the direction of exciton migration and energy transport in the semiconductor, enabling fluorescence via indirect to direct gap transition.
Interface Engineering of a Ceramic Electrolyte by Ta2O5 Nanofilms for Ultrastable Lithium Metal Batteries
Authors: Guo Sijie , Wu Ting‐Ting , Sun Yong‐Gang , Zhang Si‐Dong , Li Bing , Zhang Hong‐Shen , Qi Mu‐Yao , Liu Xian‐Hu , Cao An‐Min , Wan Li‐Jun
Published: March 2022

Solid‐state batteries (SSBs) are promising for next‐generation energy storage with advantages in both energy density and safety, but are challenged by the poor solid‐to‐solid contact between solid‐state electrolytes (SSEs) and electrodes, particularly the lithium anode. Herein, a facile coordination‐assisted deposition process is employed to build artificial Ta2O5 nanofilms on SSEs, which is lithiophilic and has high stability against metallic lithium, thereby ensuring an intimate and stable interface between SSEs and lithium anode to sustain extended cycles. The feasibility is verified by using Li6.5La3Zr1.5Ta0.5O12 (LLZT), a garnet‐typed SSEs, as a model system. It is shown that a 12 nm Ta2O5 nanofilm is able to significantly decrease the interfacial resistance from 1258 to 9 Ω cm2 with a high critical current density reaching 2.0 mA cm−2 for the assembled symmetric cell, which shows an unprecedented capability to survive long‐term cycling over 5200 h. This control strategy is also able to enable the use of the commercialized cathode materials of LiFePO4 and LiNi0.83Co0.07Mn0.1O2 in SSBs with both high reversible capacity and cycling capability. The study opens up a research avenue for the delicately carved interlayers through a scalable and reliable manufacturing process which can accelerate the commercialization of SSEs.
Single‐Atom Fe Catalysts for Fenton‐Like Reactions: Roles of Different N Species
Authors: Xiong Yu , Li Hongchao , Liu Chuangwei , Zheng Lirong , Liu Chen , Wang Jia‐Ou , Liu Shoujie , Han Yunhu , Gu Lin , Qian Jieshu , Wang Dingsheng
Published: March 2022

Recognizing and controlling the structure–activity relationships of single‐atom catalysts (SACs) is vital for manipulating their catalytic properties for various practical applications. Herein, Fe SACs supported on nitrogen‐doped carbon (SA‐Fe/CN) are reported, which show high catalytic reactivity (97% degradation of bisphenol A in only 5 min), high stability (80% of reactivity maintained after five runs), and wide pH suitability (working pH range 3–11) toward Fenton‐like reactions. The roles of different N species in these reactions are further explored, both experimentally and theoretically. It is discovered that graphitic N is an adsorptive site for the target molecule, pyrrolic N coordinates with Fe(III) and plays a dominant role in the reaction, and pyridinic N, coordinated with Fe(II), is only a minor contributor to the reactivity of SA‐Fe/CN. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations reveal that a lower d‐band center location of pyrrolic‐type Fe sites leads to the easy generation of Fe‐oxo intermediates, and thus, excellent catalytic properties.
Surface Engineering of Defective and Porous Ir Metallene with Polyallylamine for Hydrogen Evolution Electrocatalysis
Authors: Deng Kai , Zhou Tongqing , Mao Qiqi , Wang Shengqi , Wang Ziqiang , Xu You , Li Xiaonian , Wang Hongjing , Wang Liang
Published: March 2022

The design of defects and porous structures into metallene with functional surfaces is highly desired to improve its permeability, surface area, and active sites, but remains a great challenge. In this work, polyallylamine‐encapsulated Ir metallene with defects and porous structure (Ir@PAH metallene) is easily fabricated by a one‐step wet chemical reduction method. The Ir@PAH metallene exhibits excellent hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) performance with an overpotential of only 14 mV at 10 mA cm–2, a low Tafel slope of 31.2 mV dec–1, and almost no activity decay after stability test. The abundant defects and pores as well as several‐atomic‐layer nanosheet structures of Ir@PAH metallene provide a large specific surface area, high conductivity, and efficient mass transport/diffusion. In addition, surface‐functionalized PAH molecules can modulate the electronic structure through strong Ir–N interaction and act as proton carriers to capture hydrogen ions, which is very beneficial for the HER in acidic media. This work provides a useful strategy for the synthesis of the defective and porous metallene with functionalized surfaces for various catalytic applications.
A Triad Photoanode for Visible Light‐Driven Water Oxidation via Immobilization of Molecular Polyoxometalate on Polymeric Carbon Nitride
Authors: Gong Ruihao , Mitoraj Dariusz , Gao Dandan , Mundszinger Manuel , Sorsche Dieter , Kaiser Ute , Streb Carsten , Beranek Radim , Rau Sven
Published: March 2022

Due to their availability, low cost, nontoxicity, and tunability, polymeric carbon nitrides (CNx) represent one of the most attractive materials classes for the development of fully sustainable photo(electro)catalytic systems for solar‐driven water splitting. However, the development of CNx‐based photoanodes for visible light‐driven water oxidation to dioxygen is rather challenging, particularly due to issues related to photoelectrode stability and effective coupling of the light absorber with water oxidation catalysts. Herein, a triadic photoanode comprising a porous TiO2 electron collector scaffold sensitized by CNx coupled to a molecular cobalt polyoxometalate (CoPOM = [Co4(H2O)2(PW9O34)2]10) catalyst is reported. Complete water oxidation to dioxygen under visible (λ > 420 nm) light irradiation is demonstrated, with photocurrents down to relatively low bias potentials (0.2 V vs RHE). Furthermore, polyethyleneimine (PEI), a cationic polymer is shown to act as an effective and non‐sacrificial electrostatic linker for immobilization of the anionic CoPOM onto the negatively charged surface of CNx. The optimized deposition of CoPOM using the PEI linker translates directly into improved efficiency of the transfer of photogenerated holes to water molecules and to enhanced oxygen evolution. This work thus provides important design rules for effective immobilization of POM‐based catalysts into soft‐matter photoelectrocatalytic architectures for light‐driven water oxidation.
CD146 Associates with Gp130 to Control a Macrophage Pro‐inflammatory Program That Regulates the Metabolic Response to Obesity
Authors: Duan Hongxia , Jing Lin , Xiang Jianquan , Ju Chenhui , Wu Zhenzhen , Liu Jingyu , Ma Xinran , Chen Xuehui , Liu Zheng , Feng Jing , Yan Xiyun
Published: March 2022

The mechanism of obesity‐related metabolic dysfunction involves the development of systemic inflammation, largely mediated by macrophages. Switching of M1‐like adipose tissue macrophages (ATMs) to M2‐like ATMs, a population of macrophages associated with weight loss and insulin sensitivity, is considered a viable therapeutic strategy for obesity‐related metabolic syndrome. However, mechanisms for reestablishing the polarization of ATMs remain elusive. This study demonstrates that CD146+ ATMs accumulate in adipose tissue during diet‐induced obesity and are associated with increased body weight, systemic inflammation, and obesity‐induced insulin resistance. Inactivating the macrophage CD146 gene or antibody targeting of CD146 alleviates obesity‐related chronic inflammation and metabolic dysfunction. Macrophage CD146 interacts with Glycoprotein 130 (Gp130), the common subunit of the receptor signaling complex for the interleukin‐6 family of cytokines. CD146/Gp130 interaction promotes pro‐inflammatory polarization of ATMs by activating JNK signaling and inhibiting the activation of STAT3, a transcription factor for M2‐like polarization. Disruption of their interaction by anti‐CD146 antibody or interleukin‐6 steers ATMs toward anti‐inflammatory polarization, thus attenuating obesity‐induced chronic inflammation and metabolic dysfunction in mice. The results suggest that macrophage CD146 is an important determinant of pro‐inflammatory polarization and plays a pivotal role in obesity‐induced metabolic dysfunction. CD146 could constitute a novel therapeutic target for obesity complications.
Toward Broad Spectral Response Inverted Perovskite Solar Cells: Insulating Quantum‐Cutting Perovskite Nanophosphors and Multifunctional Ternary Organic Bulk‐Heterojunction
Authors: Wu Yanjie , Ding Nan , Zhang Yuhong , Liu Bin , Zhuang Xinmeng , Liu Shuainan , Nie Zhaogang , Bai Xue , Dong Biao , Xu Lin , Zhou Donglei , Song Hongwei
Published: March 2022

Extending near‐infrared (NIR) spectral response and increasing ultraviolet utilization is still a challenge in the context of improving power conversion efficiency (PCE) for perovskite solar cells (PSCs). In this work, to extend NIR light‐harvesting of PSCs, a novel COTIC‐4F: PC61BM: PTB7‐Th ternary organic bulk‐heterojunction together with Au nanotriangles is integrated on the PSCs. The NIR spectral response is thus extended to 1100 nm. In fact, the COTIC‐4F: PC61BM: PTB7‐Th layer enables multi‐functional effects, which can serve as electron transport, trap passivation, and moisture barrier layer in addition to NIR light harvesting. For increasing UV utilization, CsPbCl3:Yb3+, Ce3+, Cr3+ nanophosphors with photoluminescent quantum yield close to 200% are fabricated, which demonstrate excellent down‐conversion ability. Then, CsPbCl3: Yb3+, Ce3+, Cr3+/polymethylmethacrylate composite films are self‐assembled on a hybrid device, resulting in a 6.2% relative enhancement of short circuit current density. After simultaneously improving the NIR and UV spectral response of device, the PCE is increased significantly from 20.52% to 23.40% and the Jsc is increased from 21.79 to 25.96 mA cm−2, representing one of the highest PCE and maximum Jsc enhancements in the reported inverted hybrid organic/PSCs. This work represents an effective and general strategy for obtaining efficient and stable PSC devices with extremely broad spectral responses.
Do plant‐based and blend meat alternatives taste like meat? A combined sensory and choice experiment study
Authors: Caputo Vincenzina , Sogari Giovanni , Van Loo Ellen J.
Published: March 2022

We conducted a combined sensory and discrete choice experiment study with a 100% beef burger, a plant‐based burger using pea protein, a plant‐based burger using animal‐like protein, and a blended burger with 70% beef and 30% mushroom involving US consumers. Respondents were either assigned to a blind or an informed tasting condition with information about the ingredients before tasting the burgers. Results reveal that (i) beef burgers are preferred over alternatives, (ii) consumers favor blended burgers over alternatives in the blind condition but demand decreases in the informed condition; (iii) consumers prefer the plant‐based burger with animal‐like protein over the one with pea protein.
The EU enlargements treatment effect on agricultural policy
Authors: Olper Alessandro , Valenti Daniele , Raimondi Valentina , Curzi Daniele
Published: March 2022

This article exploits the sequences of the European Union (EU) enlargements to investigate their impact on the incoming countries' agricultural policy. We use a quasi‐experimental approach—the Synthetic Control method—to identify changes in the level of agricultural protection of the new members, in comparison with a counterfactual scenario. Our results suggest that earlier 1973 and 1985 EU enlargements show a significant increase in the rate of assistance to agriculture of incoming countries. The opposite holds, however, for the 1995 and 2004 enlargements, where the incomers significantly reduced their level of assistance to agriculture, in comparison with a counterfactual scenario.
Bearing witness to structural violence against migrants and envisioning transnational solidarity
Authors: Saleem Rakhshanda , Li Peiwei
Published: March 2022

Guided by a critical and transnational framework, this qualitative study centers on the perspectives and analyses of activists and organizers working with migrants to the United States who face devastating conditions due to historical and ongoing exploitation of geopolitical powers and structures of violence. Through thematic and reconstructive analyses, we focus on how 18 participants navigate the intersections of legal, political, economic, and cultural implications, as well as complex ethical and moral dilemmas, tensions, and contradictions that emerged in their work. Grounded in their eyewitness narratives, we attempt to learn about the lived experiences of migrants and engage in critical analysis of structural violence (i.e., violence embedded in the social structures and institutions) and oppressive conditions. We examine the notion of “solidarity” and what it means to engage in anti‐oppressive transnational solidarity with differentials in positionalities and against the backdrop of professional and institutional reproduction of colonial, imperial, racist, and neoliberal forms of structural violence, including within the academy itself. Juxtaposing empirical and structural analyses, we hope to further contribute to a more nuanced understanding of intersectional social struggles and the potential for organizing towards liberatory solidarity.
Obese individuals do not underreport dietary intake to a greater extent than nonobese individuals when data are allometrically‐scaled
Authors: Waterworth Sally P. , Kerr Catherine J. , McManus Christopher J. , Costello Rianne , Sandercock Gavin R. H.
Published: March 2022

Objective

The aim of this study was to assess the extent of misreporting in obese and nonobese adults on an absolute, ratio‐scaled, and allometrically‐scaled basis.

Method

Self‐reported daily energy intake (EI) was compared with total energy expenditure (TEE) in 221 adults (106 male, 115 female; age 53 ± 17 years, stature 1.68 ± 0.09 m, mass 79.8 ± 17.2 kg) who participated in a doubly‐labeled water (DLW) subsection of 2013–2015 National Diet and Nutrition Survey. Data were log transformed and expressed as absolute values, according to simple ratio‐standards (per kg body mass) and adjusted for body mass allometrically. Absolute and ratio‐scaled misreporting were examined using full‐factorial General Linear Models with repeated measures of the natural logarithms of TEE or EI as the within‐subjects factor. The natural logarithm of body mass was included as a covariate in the allometric method. The categorical variables of gender, age, obesity, and physical activity level (PAL) were the between‐factor variables.

Results

On an absolute‐basis, self‐reported EI (2759 ± 590 kcal·d−1) was significantly lower than TEE measured by DLW (2759 ± 590 kcal·d−1: F1,205 = 598.81, p < .001, ηp2 =0.75). We identified significantly greater underreporting in individuals with an obese BMI (F1,205 = 29.01, p <.001, ηp2 =0.12), in more active individuals (PAL > 1.75; F1,205 = 34.15, p <.001, ηp2 =0.14) and in younger individuals (≤55 years; F1,205 = 14.82, p < .001, ηp2 =0.07), which are all categories with higher energy needs. Ratio‐scaling data reduced the effect sizes. Allometric‐scaling removed the effect of body mass (F1,205 =0.02, p = 0.887, ηp2 =0.00).

Conclusion

In weight‐stable adults, obese individuals do not underreport dietary intake to a greater extent than nonobese individuals. These results contradict previous research demonstrating that obesity is associated with a greater degree of underreporting.
Neurological features of Noonan syndrome and related RASopathies: Pain and nerve enlargement characterized by nerve ultrasound
Authors: De Ridder Willem , van Engelen Baziel , van Alfen Nens
Published: March 2022

This study aimed to assess the nature of peripheral nervous system (PNS) involvement in three patients with Noonan syndrome (NS) or NS with multiple lentigines (NSML) as a related RASopathy, presenting primary with intractable neuropathic pain. We studied three unrelated adult patients with severe neuropathic pain and muscle weakness of the limbs. Nerve conduction studies and needle electromyography (EMG) were performed and PNS involvement was assessed by nerve ultrasound imaging, complemented with spinal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for the evaluation of proximal nerve segments. Targeted whole‐exome sequencing analysis was performed when the diagnosis of NS was suspected. Two patients showed a PTPN11‐related dominant and one a LZTR1‐related recessive NS or NSML phenotype. The nature of PNS involvement was documented using nerve ultrasound and MRI, showing generalized or multifocal thickening of nerve roots, plexuses and peripheral nerves in all three patients. Nerve imaging using ultrasound and MRI aids in further detailing the nature of neuropathic pain and nerve hypertrophy in patients with NS. This study underlines the relevance of nerve ultrasound in neuropathies and pain syndromes. A NS diagnosis should not be overlooked in longstanding, unexplained neuropathic pain syndromes, with or without muscular weakness. Nerve ultrasound studies can help raise the suspicion for this relatively prevalent inherited multisystem disorder, which is still rather unknown among neurologists, particularly when other potential syndromic features are inconspicuous.
Polarization of Photons Scattered by Ultra‐Relativistic Ion Beams
Authors: Volotka Andrey , Samoilenko Dmitrii , Fritzsche Stephan , Serbo Valeriy G. , Surzhykov Andrey
Published: March 2022

A theoretical investigation of the elastic resonant scattering of photons by ultra–relativistic and partially stripped ions is presented. Particular attention in the study is given to the angular distribution and polarization of scattered photons as “seen” in both the ion‐rest and laboratory reference frames. In order to evaluate these angular and polarization properties, the irreducible polarization tensor approach is combined with the density matrix theory. If, furthermore, the ion–photon coupling is treated within the electric dipole approximation, this framework enables one to obtain simple analytical expressions for both the emission pattern and the polarization Stokes parameters of the outgoing radiation. These (analytical) expressions for the , , and transitions are displayed and analyzed , that are of interest for the Gamma Factory project and whose realization is currently under discussion at CERN. Based on the performed analysis, it is demonstrated that the resonantly scattered photons can be strongly (linearly or circularly) polarized, and that this polarization can be well controlled by adjusting either the emission angle and/or the polarization state of the incident radiation. Moreover, the potential of the photon scattering for measuring the spin‐polarization of ion beams is also discussed in detail.
Engineering Highly Reduced Molybdenum Polyoxometalates via the Incorporation of d and f Block Metal Ions
Authors: Ribó Eduard Garrido , Bell Nicola L. , Long De‐Liang , Cronin Leroy
Published: March 2022

The assembly of nanoscale polyoxometalate (POM) clusters has been dominated by the highly reduced icosahedral {Mo132} “browns” and the toroidal {Mo154} “blues” which are 45 % and 18 % reduced, respectively. We hypothesised that there is space for a greater diversity of structures in this immediate reduction zone. Here we show it is possible to make highly reduced mix‐valence POMs by presenting new classes of polyoxomolybdates: [MoV52MoVI12H26O200]42− {Mo64} and [MoV40MoVI30H30O215]20− {Mo70}, 81 % and 57 % reduced, respectively. The {Mo64} cluster archetype has a super‐cube structure and is composed of five different types of building blocks, each arranged in overlayed Archimedean or Platonic polyhedra. The {Mo70} cluster comprises five tripodal {MoV6} and five tetrahedral {MoV2MoVI2} building blocks alternatively linked to form a loop with a pentagonal star topology. We also show how the reaction yielding the {Mo64} super‐cube can be used in the enrichment of lanthanides which exploit the differences in selectivity in the self‐assembly of the polyoxometalates.
Click Synthesis Enabled Sulfur Atom Strategy for Polymerization‐Enhanced and Two‐Photon Photosensitization
Authors: Li Chongyang , Liu Junkai , Hong Yingjuan , Lin Runfeng , Liu Zicheng , Chen Ming , Lam Jacky W. Y. , Ning Guo‐Hong , Zheng Xiuli , Qin Anjun , Tang Ben Zhong
Published: March 2022

Facile tailoring of photosensitizers (PSs) with advanced and synergetic properties is highly expected to broaden and deepen photodynamic therapy (PDT) applications. Herein, a catalyst‐free thiol–yne click reaction was employed to develop the sulfur atom‐based PSs by using the in situ formed sulfur “heavy atom effect” to enhance the intersystem crossing (ISC), while such an effect can be remarkably magnified by the polymerization. The introduction of a tetraphenylpyrazine‐based aggregation‐induced emission (AIE) unit was also advantageous in PS design by suppressing their non‐radiative decay to facilitate the ISC in the aggregated state. Besides, the resulting sulfur atom electron donor, together with a double‐bond π bridge and AIE electron acceptor, created a donor‐π‐acceptor (D‐π‐A) molecular system with good two‐photon excitation properties. Combined with the high singlet oxygen generation efficiency, the fabricated polymer nanoparticles exhibited an excellent in vitro two‐photon‐excited PDT towards cancer cells, therefore possessing a huge potential for the deep‐tissue disease therapy.
Sorption of rhenium on synthetic cyclohexylamine anion exchange resin LSC‐436
Authors: Feng Jiahui , Yu Haoqi , Wang Yingcai , Li Haonan , Li Junhan , Liu Weigang , Zhang Zimin , Li Shuang , Liu Heng , Hua Rong
Published: March 2022

A new organic synthetic anion exchange resin (LSC‐436) containing cyclohexylamine group was prepared for the sorption of rhenium. The traditional batch tests were applied to investigate the mechanism of sorption for rhenium on LSC‐436 with respect to contact time, initial rhenium concentration, the value of pH and the amount of resin. The experimental data obtained from batch tests were modeled using the Langmuir/Freundlich isotherms and pseudo‐first‐kinetic and pseudo‐second‐kinetic models to obtain key dynamic parameters for investigating the mechanism of sorption of rhenium. The LSC‐436 resin was characterized using scanning electron microscopy (SEM‐EDS), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) techniques to further study the sorption mechanism.
Strategies to improve the stress resistance of Escherichia coli in industrial biotechnology
Authors: Tao Yuxuan , Wang Hanxiao , Wang Jingnan , Jiang Wankui , Jiang Yujia , Xin Fengxue , Zhang Wenming , Jiang Min
Published: March 2022

The use of industrial Escherichia coli strains for the production of bio‐based chemicals offers a promising and sustainable solution to a growing scarcity of non‐renewable resources and contributes to the protection of the environment. However, many limitations, such as inhibition from toxic substrates, hyperosmosis, toxic by‐products, and other adverse fermentation conditions, prevent strains from attaining a stable cell growth rate, efficient metabolic flux, and satisfactory productivity. There has thus been much effort to obtain E. coli strains that exhibit robust growth and productivity with enhanced tolerance of extreme operating conditions. In this review, we gained insights into recent studies in improving tolerance of E. coli and summarized four kinds of engineering methods: modifying regulation factors, regulating membrane structure, optimizing biosynthetic pathways, and applying adaptive evolution. The combination of different engineering strategies therefore provided a broader platform for robustness of industrial E. coli, making further steps to achieving more advantageous biosynthesis. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd
Berücksichtigung der Querbiegebewehrung zur Erhöhung des Querkraftwiderstands bei einer Bestandsbrücke – Fachwerkmodell und nichtlineare FE‐Analyse
Authors: Pröbsting Arthur , Trost Burkhart , Schuler Harald
Published: March 2022

Zahlreiche Brücken aus den 1970er und 1980er Jahren sind heute deutlich höheren Verkehrslasten ausgesetzt als damals bei der ursprünglichen Bemessung. Unterdessen wurden die normativen Regelungen eher verschärft oder verfeinert, sodass diese Bauwerke den heute geltenden Regeln oft nicht standhalten können. Mit der Einführung der sogenannten Erhaltungsnorm SIA 269 ff. wurde versucht, dieser Tatsache entgegenzuwirken, insbesondere, indem günstige Einflüsse wie Materialnacherhärtung oder Reduktion der Restnutzugsdauer Eingang fanden. Im Falle der Grenzbrücke Basel hätte ein üblicher Querkraftnachweis zu einer aufwendigen Querkraftverstärkung in großen Bereichen der Brücke geführt. Unter Ansatz der Querbiegebewehrung für die Querkrafttragfähigkeit konnte jedoch auf die ursprünglich geplante Verstärkungsmaßnahme verzichtet werden. Die Wirkung der Querbiegebewehrung auf den Querkraftwiderstand wurde anhand eines zusätzlichen zweiten Fachwerkmodells erfasst. Die notwendige Erhöhung des Biegewiderstands ergab sich durch einen Spannungszuwachs im Spannglied bei der Findung des horizontalen Kräftegleichgewichts. Mit einer nichtlinearen Finite‐Elemente‐Berechnung konnten die Ergebnisse überprüft und die Verträglichkeit der beiden Fachwerkmodelle aufgezeigt werden.
From Karl von Frisch to Neuroethology: A Methodological Perspective on the Frischean Tradition's Expansion into Neuroethology**
Authors: Dhein Kelle
Published: March 2022

This paper examines a tradition of eusocial insect research stemming from the Austrian zoologist Karl von Frisch. As I show in this paper, one of the most enduring features of the Frischean tradition has been an experimental methodology developed by Frisch in the early 1910s. By tracing this methodology's use through Frisch's student, Martin Lindauer, and two of Lindauer's students, Rüdiger Wehner and Randolf Menzel, this paper illuminates a surprising aspect of ethology's development during the last half of the 20th century. Namely, it sheds light on how the Frischean tradition, a tradition that had a complicated relationship with ethology since the discipline's formation in the 1930s, produced scientists who became leading figures in neuroethology, the most prominent contemporary field of behavioral research to retain the label of “ethology.” Some of the features that distinguished Frisch's training method from the program of classical ethology and the work of his contemporaries later helped his academic descendants adapt the method to the neuroethological program.
A modified version of the interlocking finger test as a bedside screening test for visuospatial deficits and dementia in Parkinson's disease
Authors: Schmidt Nele , Strohmaier Tim , Witt Karsten
Published: March 2022

Introduction

Objective of this study was to examine if the Interlocking Finger Test (ILFT) is a suitable bedside screening test for visuospatial functions and/or dementia in Parkinson's disease (PD) patients aiming to facilitate the diagnosis of a dementia syndrome associated with posterior cortical and temporal lobe dysfunction according to the dual syndrome hypothesis (frontostriatal vs. posterior cortical cognitive impairment).

Methods

Forty‐seven PD patients were assessed with the ILFT and an extensive cognitive test battery. The ILFT was carried out in the original version as well as in three modified versions of the test including a fifth figure and/or a more complex rating system, leading to four different ILFT scores (named after the maximum achievable scoring result: ILFT 4, ILFT 5, ILFT 12, and ILFT 15). We conducted a correlation analysis to reveal associations between the ILFT scores and cognitive as well as motor impairments. Receiver operating curve (ROC) analyses were calculated to evaluate the ability of the ILFT scores to predict visuospatial impairments and dementia.

Results

ILFT scores correlated significantly with global cognition, visuospatial functions, memory, attention, and age (p < .0125) but not with executive functions, language, education, depression, and motor impairment. The ROC analyses revealed ILFT 15 as best predictor for visuospatial deficits and dementia with an area under the curve of .82 and .88, respectively.

Conclusion

The ILFT is suitable for detecting symptoms of the posterior cortical degeneration syndrome according to the dual syndrome hypothesis. We recommend the use of the modified test version ILFT 15.
International orientation and environmental performance in Vietnamese exporting small‐ and medium‐sized enterprises
Authors: Nguyen Nguyen Phong , Adomako Samuel
Published: March 2022

Despite the burgeoning literature on environmental management, research is scarce on the impact of international orientation (IO) on environmental performance. This study investigates the impact of IO on environmental performance through the mediating mechanism of environmental commitment. In addition, the paper examines the moderating role of stakeholder pressure. Using data collected from 332 firms engaged in exporting activities in Vietnam, this study finds that a firm's level of IO is positively related to its environmental commitment. The results also show that environmental commitment mediates the relationship between IO and environmental performance. Finally, this research finds that the positive effect of environmental commitment on environmental performance is moderated by stakeholder green pressure. These findings theoretically contribute to the environmental management literature and practically extend our knowledge of how IO enhances environmental performance.
Tribo‐Excited Chemical Reaction Using an EuIII Complex with a Stacked Anthracene Framework
Authors: Kitagawa Yuichi , Naito Ayu , Aikawa Kota , Shima Kaori , Shoji Sunao , Fushimi Koji , Hasegawa Yasuchika
Published: March 2022

Invited for the cover of this issue are Yuichi Kitagawa, Yasuchika Hasegawa, and co‐workers at Hokkaido University. The image depicts tribo‐excited chemical reaction using trivalent lanthanide complexes with stacked anthracene ligands. Read the full text of the article at 10.1002/chem.202104401.
Instabilities in Fixed Bed Reactors with Downwards Directed Flow for the Oligomerization of 1‐Butene
Authors: Wehinger Gregor , Paul Niklas , Six Tanita , Rix Armin , Knossalla Johannes , Franke Robert
Published: March 2022

In this work instabilities in fixed bed reactors with downwards directed flows for the oligomerization of 1‐butene were investigated. For very long residence times or very low velocities in combination with strong exothermic reactions, the buoyancy force can exceed the inertia force and the downwards directed liquid flow in the fixed bed becomes instable. These flow conditions might result in hotspots, the shift of the conversion towards unwanted by‐products or even in a runaway of the reactor. Therefore, the detailed understanding of the transition between stable and instable flow conditions in fixed bed reactors is essential for a safe and reliable operation of the reactor. Various simulation methods and correlations were applied to predict instable conditions that were observed in an experimental setup. 3D CFD simulations could be used to predict instable flow conditions in fixed bed reactors.