bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessing the effects of native and alien plant ash on mosquito abundance
Authors: Netshituni Vincent T. , Cuthbert Ross N. , Dondofema Farai , Dalu Tatenda
Published: October 2022

Plant invasions have been linked to displacement of native vegetation and altering of fire regimes and might influence vector mosquito populations by altering habitats or nutrient inputs. Whereas wildfire effects on terrestrial ecosystems are relatively well‐studied, ash depositions into aquatic ecosystems and effects on semi‐aquatic taxa such as mosquitoes have remained overlooked. Here, we investigated mosquito colonization in water treated with ash from native plants [quinine tree (Rauvolfia caffra), Transvaal milk plum (Englerophytum magalismontanum), apple leaf (Philenoptera violacea)] and invasive alien plants [i.e., lantana (Lantana camara), guava (Psidium guajava), red river gum (Eucalyptus camaldulensis)] in containers at two ash concentrations (i.e., 1, 2 g/L). Overall, there was no statistically clear difference in colonization between ash from native and alien species. We recorded colonization by two mosquito genera (Culex spp. and Anopheles spp.), with Culex generally much more abundant than Anopheles. Few differences were identified among the plants, with statistically clear effects of ash type and concentration on larval and pupal stages. High Culex egg and larval abundances were shown in lantana and apple leaf treatments compared to controls, and milkplum versus controls for pupae of both genera. Further research is required to elucidate the influence of nutrient inputs from different ash species on vector mosquito population dynamics.
Functional rarity of plants in German hay meadows — Patterns on the species level and mismatches with community species richness
Authors: Walther Gabriel , Jandt Ute , Kattge Jens , Römermann Christine
Published: October 2022

Functional rarity (FR) — a feature combining a species' rarity with the distinctiveness of its traits — is a promising tool to better understand the ecological importance of rare species and consequently to protect functional diversity more efficiently. However, we lack a systematic understanding of FR on both the species level (which species are functionally rare and why) and the community level (how is FR associated with biodiversity and environmental conditions). Here, we quantify FR for 218 plant species from German hay meadows on a local, regional, and national scale by combining data from 6500 vegetation relevés and 15 ecologically relevant traits. We investigate the association between rarity and trait distinctiveness on different spatial scales via correlation measures and show which traits lead to low or high trait distinctiveness via distance‐based redundancy analysis. We test how species richness and FR are correlated, and use boosted regression trees to determine environmental conditions that are driving species richness and FR. On the local scale, only rare species showed high trait distinctiveness while on larger spatial scales rare and common species showed high trait distinctiveness. As infrequent trait attributes (e.g., legumes, low clonality) led to higher trait distinctiveness, we argue that functionally rare species are either specialists or transients. While specialists occupy a particular niche in hay meadows leading to lower rarity on larger spatial scales, transients display distinct but maladaptive traits resulting in high rarity across all spatial scales. More functionally rare species than expected by chance occurred in species‐poor communities indicating that they prefer environmental conditions differing from characteristic conditions of species‐rich hay meadows. Finally, we argue that functionally rare species are not necessarily relevant for nature conservation because many were transients from surrounding habitats. However, FR can facilitate our understanding of why species are rare in a habitat and under which conditions these species occur.
Natural Lignin: A Sustainable and Cost‐Effective Electrode Material for High‐Temperature Na‐Ion Battery
Authors: She Yuqi , Li Xiwei , Zheng Yanqin , Chen Dong , Rui Xianhong , Lin Xuliang , Qin Yanlin
Published: October 2022

Rechargeable sodium‐ion batteries usually suffer from accelerated electrode destruction at high temperatures and high synthesis costs of electrode materials. Therefore, it is highly desirable to explore novel organic electrodes considering their cost‐effectiveness and large adaptability to volume changes. Herein, natural biomass, pristine lignin, is employed as the sodium‐ion battery anodes, and their sodium storage performance is investigated at room temperature and 60 °C. The lignin anodes exhibit excellent high‐temperature sodium‐ion battery performance. This mainly results from the generation of abundant reactive sites (C=O) due to the high temperature‐induced homogeneous cleavage of the Cβ–O bond in the lignin macromolecule. This work can inspire researchers to explore other natural organic materials for large‐scale applications and high‐value utilization in advanced energy storage devices.
Current therapies for hypertrophic cardiomyopathy: a systematic review and meta‐analysis of the literature
Authors: Bayonas‐Ruiz Adrián , Muñoz‐Franco Francisca María , Sabater‐Molina María , Oliva‐Sandoval María José , Gimeno Juan R. , Bonacasa Bárbara
Published: October 2022

Aims

The aim of this study was to synthesize the evidence on the effect of the current therapies over the pathophysiological and clinical characteristics of patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM).

Methods and results

A systematic review and meta‐analysis of 41 studies identified from 1383 retrieved from PubMed, Web of Science, and Cochrane was conducted. Therapies were grouped in pharmacological, invasive and physical exercise. Pharmacological agents had no effect on functional capacity measured by VO2max (1.11 mL/kg/min; 95% CI: −0.04, 2.25, P < 0.05). Invasive septal reduction therapies increased VO2max (+3.2 mL/kg/min; 95% CI: 1.78, 4.60, P < 0.05). Structured physical exercise programmes did not report contraindications and evidenced the highest increases on functional capacity (VO2max + 4.33 mL/kg/min; 95% CI: 0.20, 8.45, P < 0.05). Patients with left ventricular outflow tract (LVOT) obstruction at rest improved their VO2max to a greater extent compared with those without resting LVOT obstruction (2.82 mL/kg/min; 95% CI: 1.97, 3.67 vs. 1.18; 95% CI: 0.62, 1.74, P < 0.05). Peak LVOT gradient was reduced with the three treatment options with the highest reduction observed for invasive therapies. Left ventricular ejection fraction was reduced in pharmacological and invasive procedures. No effect was observed after physical exercise. Symptomatic status improved with the three options and to a greater extent with invasive procedures.

Conclusions

Invasive septal reduction therapies increase VO2max, improve symptomatic status, and reduce resting and peak LVOT gradient, thus might be considered in obstructive patients. Physical exercise emerges as a coadjuvant therapy, which is safe and associated with benefits on functional capacity. Pharmacological agents improve reported NYHA class, but not functional capacity.
Mechanistic Understanding of Electrocatalytic Vinylcyclopropane Rearrangement
Authors: Horiguchi Genki , Okada Yohei
Published: October 2022

Electron‐catalyzed reactions induced by electrochemical methods, i. e., electrocatalytic reactions, are a focus of interest in organic chemical synthesis. Since some electrolysis parameters (current, potential and coulomb amount) can be monitored and controlled and electrochemical measurement techniques are well established, we can obtain mechanistic insights into electron‐catalyzed (electrocatalytic) reactions. Using these advantages, we have investigated radical cation vinylcyclopropane rearrangements. The desired rearrangement proceeded by a catalytic coulomb amount. The synthetic outcomes and electrochemical measurements suggested that the rearrangement proceeded at the anode region via a radical cation chain mechanism. The key to the electrocatalytic rearrangement was the structure of the substrate.
Role of Halide Substitution in Perovskite‐Based Asymmetric Hybrid Supercapacitor
Authors: Yadav Ankur , Shukla Prem Sagar , Kumar Jitendra , Das Varma Ghanshyam , Bag Monojit
Published: October 2022

Organometal halide perovskites (MHPs) are widely used in energy harvesting as well as energy storage applications due to their superior optoelectronic properties. However, structural, optical, and electronic properties of these materials are strongly dependent on the halide substitution. So far methylammonium lead tri‐bromide‐perovskite‐based supercapacitors have shown an energy density in the range of 10–15 Wh kg−1. Therefore, further optimization is needed to improve the energy storage efficiency in halide perovskite‐based supercapacitors. It has been observed that the charge storage capacity increases with the increasing ionic conductivity in the perovskite active layer. Herein, a series of porous electrodes are prepared to optimize ionic conductivity by mixing powders of different halide‐based perovskite single crystals for supercapacitor application. It has been demonstrated that maximum efficiency is achieved for a specific bromide composition to iodide ratio with an energy density of ≈22 Wh kg−1 and a power density of 600 W kg−1. The ionic conductivity is improved at least by two orders to 3.2 × 10−13 m2 s−1 in the mixed halide sample than pure halide perovskites, while charge transfer resistance is decreased to 40.5 Ω cm−2. However, overall device stability and Coulombic efficiency decrease with the increasing iodide content.
Sn Nanoparticles Anchored on Carbon Foam Prepared by a Facile Electrodeposition for Lithium Storage
Authors: Lv Wenhan , Wang Tao , Qiu Hailong
Published: October 2022

As an anode material of lithium‐ion batteries (LIB), Sn has great application potential due to its high theoretical specific capacity. However, the Li–Sn alloying reaction causes serious volume expansion and destroys the electrode structure, resulting in a rapid capacity decay. Herein, a simple preparation method for the Sn–carbon composites (Sn/CF) is designed by electrodepositing Sn nanoparticles on 3D carbon foam (CF) derived from the carbonization of melamine. Sn/CF‐3h exhibits excellent electrochemical properties. At 1 A g−1, the specific capacity of Sn/CF‐3h remains 166.6 mAh g−1 with a high capacity retention of 85.4% even over 2000 cycles. The designed structure of the Sn/CF electrode contributes to its excellent performance: providing a 3D conductive network, accommodating volume changes to prevent Sn nanoparticles from losing electrical contact, and promoting contact with electrolyte to accelerate lithium ion transmission.
Absence of well‐developed floodplains along the lowland rivers and controls of the hydrogeomorphic conditions in the Western Ghat, India
Authors: Guha Shantamoy , Kaushal Rahul Kumar , Jain Vikrant
Published: October 2022

Lowland rivers across the world are characterized by accumulation of sediment due to a decrease in the channel slope. Despite the antiquity of the topography, the lowland part of the west‐flowing rivers of Western Ghat, India is characterized by poorly developed floodplains except for the southern part of the Ghat. This poses a question of the sediment transportation and deposition capacity in these lowland rivers, which in turn governs geomorphic characteristics. In this study, we adapted a novel method to integrate hydrological model‐derived discharge estimates, channel slope estimates from digital elevation models, bankfull channel width estimates from high‐resolution Google Earth satellite images and field observations. We modelled the downstream distribution of total stream power (
), specific stream power (
) and shear stress (
) for four west‐flowing river systems from different lithological and climatic settings. The 75th percentile discharge from monthly time series data was used in modelling to assess channel processes. The peak values of
are distributed all along the longitudinal profile, whereas the peak values of
and
are consistently higher in the escarpment. Scaling relationships between hydrogeomorphic parameters were also established to understand the inherent controls on the distribution of these driving parameters. We inferred that
is sufficient to transport large grain sizes even in the low‐gradient lowland stretches. Hence sediments are mostly absent in the channel, and floodplains are not well developed. Despite having a low gradient, the lowland coastal rivers can efficiently evacuate most of the eroded sediments to the offshore region. Finally, the lithological control is manifested by the variability of channel width regulating the sediment transport in the coastal rivers of the Western Ghat.
Evaluation of a clinical protocol for the management of fever in labor among pregnant women at term: A quality‐improvement study
Authors: Spénard Elisabeth , Tordjman Laurent , Marrié‐Mas Ann‐Elisabeth , Dal Soglio Dorothee , Eberle Alexa , Labbé Annie‐Claude , Boucoiran Isabelle
Published: October 2022

Objective

To assess the impact of a quality‐improvement initiative designed to increase diagnostic accuracy and adequate management of clinical chorioamnionitis (CC) at a tertiary center. Chorioamnionitis occurs in 1%–13% of term pregnancies and increases maternal and neonatal peripartum complications; often over‐diagnosed, it leads to unnecessary investigations and treatments.

Methods

This was an interrupted time‐series study. In September 2017 two interventions were implemented: (1) staff training and (2) standardized clinical protocol for the management of fever in labor. All singleton term pregnancies were included. CC cases were reviewed in the pre‐intervention (2015–2016, n = 179) and post‐intervention (2017–2018, n = 142) groups. CC criteria based on the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists guidelines, antibiotics, maternal and neonatal outcomes, and pathology were compared. A cost–consequence analysis was performed.

Results

Incidence of CC decreased from 8.2 to 5.6 per 10 person‐year (P < 0.001). This was associated with a significant increase in diagnostic accuracy from 15.7% to 73.2% (P < 0.001). Weight‐adjusted tobramycin dosage improved from 8.8% to 69.1% (P < 0.001). Maternal length of hospitalization and readmissions decreased significantly, without affecting neonatal sepsis rate. Interventions decreased yearly hospital costs associated with CC by 23.4%.

Conclusion

Standardizing the management of fever in labor significantly increased the diagnostic accuracy of CC and decreased the misuse of antibiotics in term pregnancies. CC costs decreased by 23.4%.
Clinical and genetic characterization of patients segregating variants in KPTN, MINPP1, NGLY1, AP4B1, and SON underlying neurodevelopmental disorders: Genetic and phenotypic expansion
Authors: Ullah Asmat , Shah Abid Ali , Alluqmani Majed , Haider Nighat , Aman Hasan , Alfadhli Fatima , Almatrafi Ahmad M. , Albalawi Alia M. , Krishin Jai , Ullah Khan Fati , Anjam Bilal Ali , Abdullah  , Lozano Elionora Peña , Samad Abdus , Ahmad Wasim , Hansen Torben , Xia Kun , Basit Sulman
Published: October 2022

Neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs) are heterogeneous genetic conditions of the central nervous system (CNS). Primary phenotypes of NDDs include epilepsy, loss of developmental skills, abnormal movements, muscle weakness, ocular anomalies, hearing problems, and macro‐ or microcephaly. NDDs occur due to variants in genes encoding proteins involved in the structure and function of CNS, thus interrupting its normal physiological role. In the study presented here, four consanguineous families (A–D), with members showing neurodevelopmental symptoms, were recruited for clinical and genetic characterization of the phenotypes. Clinical examinations, including Seguin Form Board Test (SFBT), Vineland Social Maturity Scale (VSMS), brain Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), Electroencephalogram (EEG), Electromyography (EMG), Nerve Conduction Velocity (NCV), and Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy, were employed to characterize the disease phenotypes. Whole exome sequencing (WES) followed by Sanger sequencing was employed to search for the genetic basis of the neurological symptoms observed in four families (A–D). Two of these families (A, B) were of Saudi Arabian origin, and two others (C, D) were of Pakistan origin. Two homozygous missense (KPTN: NM_007059.4:c.301T>G: NP_008990.2; p.(Phe101Val) and MINPP1:NM_001178118.2:c.1202G>A: NP_001171588.1; p.(Arg401Gln)) variants in families A and B, respectively, and two homozygous nonsense (NGLY1:NM_018297.3:c.1534_1541dup: NP_060767.2; p.(Ser515LysfsTer51) and AP4B1:NM_001253852:c.1668G>A: NP_001240781.1; p.(Trp556X)) variants in families C and D, respectively, were identified. Interestingly, additional heterozygous nonsense variant in SON: NM_138927.2: c.5753_5756del: NP_620305.3; p.(Val1918GlufsTer87) and a homozygous variant in FLG (FLG: NM_002016.2:c.7339C>T: NP_002007.1; p.(Arg2447X) were detected in families A and D, respectively. Further, we determined the deleteriousness of each variant through computational approaches. The present study expands the phenotypic and genetic spectrum of NDD‐associated genes (KPTN, MINPP1, NGLY1, and AP4B1). Moreover, additional nonsense variants (SON: c.5753_5756del and FLG: c.7339C>T) identified in two families segregating with the phenotype might explain the phenotypic variability and severity in our patients.
Biological features of the pecten oculi of the European wild quail (Coturnix coturnix): Adaptative habits to Northern Egyptian coast with novel vision to its SEM–EDX analysis
Authors: Abumandour Mohamed M. A. , Morsy Kareem , Hanafy Basma G.
Published: October 2022

The present investigation was prepared to give a complete ultrastructural characterization of the pecten oculi of the diurnal European wild Quail to describe their adaptation habits to the Northern Egyptian coast. Our work declares the first endeavor is the elemental analysis using scanning electron microscopy‐energy dispersive X‐ray (SEM–EDX) to show the migration effect on their eye. The intra‐ocular quadrilateral trapezoid black pigmented plicated type pecten oculi were observed on the postero‐inferior wall of the eyeball with craniocaudal and posterio‐anterior directions along the fetal fissure. The pecten oculi consist of three parts: the basal, body, and apical. The basal part originated behind the optic nerve, forming the slightly elevated border, while the apical part was directed toward the ciliary body. There are 10–11 pleats with interpleat space. The coiled surface refers to numerous capillary vessels. The smooth head of each pleat was kidney‐like, strongly attached to a bridge. The vitreopecteneal limiting membrane separated the pecten oculi from the vitreous body. There are numerous melanosomes and little hyalocytes on the pecteneal pleat's outer surfaces. The thick basal part of each pleat had numerous thick longitudinal microfolds that refer to the numerous blood capillaries attached to the retina as supporting roots. SEM/EDX elemental analysis revealed that carbon is the highest element (half), while oxygen represents about one‐third. In the meantime, the lowest element is the phosphate at the apical part, while the lowest element in the rest is the sulfate. Finally, the pecten oculi are thought to be a reflection of the avian lifestyle and ecological adaptations.

Highlights

Our work is the first description of the elemental analysis using SEM–EDX to show the migration effect on their eye.

The quadrilateral trapezoid black pigmented plicated type pecten oculi were observed on the postero‐inferior wall of the eyeball with cranio‐caudal and posterio‐anterior directions along the fetal fissure. The basal part of the pecten oculi originated behind the optic nerve, forming the slightly elevated border, while the apical part was directed toward the ciliary body. There are 10–11 pleats with interpleat space.

The vitreopecteneal limiting membrane separated the pecten oculi from the vitreous body. There are numerous melanosomes and little hyalocytes on the pecteneal pleat's outer surfaces.

SEM/EDX elemental analysis revealed that carbon is the highest element (half percent), while oxygen represents about one‐third of the element's percent meanwhile, the lowest element is phosphate at the apical part, while the lowest element in the rest is the sulfate.
Experience in application and adaptation of the land degradation neutrality concept in the Russian Federation
Authors: Kust German , Andreeva Olga , Lobkovskiy Vasiliy , Annagylyjova Jamal
Published: October 2022

The paper provides an overview of the—evolving methodology for the land degradation neutrality (LDN) assessment based on studies at national, regional, and local levels in Russia. A review of more than one hundred publications in Russian language over the past 6–7 years allowed for analysis of the following areas: LDN terminology, LDN assessment at different levels, adapting a transition matrix; using the LDN concept for economic valuation of land, estimating LDN baseline, and using LDN as an integral indicator for sustainable land management. With the LDN concept, a global approach to monitoring land degradation has become applicable beyond the limited geographic scope of the drylands. The paper observes how the LDN concept has been broadened with the introduction of the LDN Index proposed to evaluate the rate of LDN achievement; a proposal on reconstructing transition matrices and adding land cover sub‐categories; approach of integrating traditional national sectoral systems for assessing land quality with an LDN add‐on. The broader relevance of the paper includes the justification that it provides for using the LDN concept by policy‐makers at national and subnational levels, in particular in Russian‐speaking countries. It includes the application of additional indicators to capture soil erosion, salinity, soil depletion, aridity, etc., and using different site‐specific LDN baselines, not only those time‐based but also factoring natural background trends like climate change, natural succession cycles linked with geological and geomorphological processes. Approaches for LDN‐based economic valuation of lands and typology of sustainable land management practices and models were also fruitful.
Soil hydrologic properties in permanent raised beds—A field study experiment on wheat–maize cropping systems
Authors: Lin Han , He Jin , Li Hongwen , Wang Qingjie , Lu Caiyun , Yang Wenchao , Wang Quanyu , Yang Hanyu
Published: October 2022

Permanent raised beds (PRB) are widely applied in agriculture around the World and have proven to be an excellent option for crops (wheat, maize, etc.). In particular, they have the potential to conserve soil and water resources in agricultural production globally. Many researchers are studying the effects of PRB on soil chemical properties (N, P, K, and SOC), plant growth characteristics, and water use efficiency in different regions. However, few experiments have investigated the soil's hydraulic performance. In this study, a 6‐year field experiment was conducted under a maize–wheat rotation cropping system in North China Plain (NCP). The effects on the soil's hydraulic properties of no‐tillage (NT) and traditional tillage (TT) on flat fields and no‐till PRB treatments were assessed. Specifically, nine soil samples were collected at 0–15 cm depth and 15–30 cm depth to assess the soil's hydraulic performance. The results showed that the total porosity under PRB (42.1%, 15–30 cm) was significantly improved by 13.5% compared to TT (37.1%, 15–30 cm). The soil organic carbon under PRB (8.65%, 15–30 cm) was increased by 13.82% compared to TT (7.6%, 15–30 cm). Changes in the slope (b) of the soil water retention characteristic curve under the PRB (7.2, 15–30 cm) treatment were indicative of an improvement in the pore size distribution, increased soil water retention, and greater infiltration rates. In addition, positive changes in lateral water infiltration from furrow irrigation were observed under PRB (over 25 mm min‐1 in 45 min). These improved soil physical parameters demonstrated that PRB can offer more possibilities for water conservation in the field. In addition, the application of PRB and the principles of conservation agriculture have potential for the effective of water use efficiency and for improving the quality of soil.
Changes in soil microbial metabolic activity following long‐term forest succession on the central Loess Plateau, China
Authors: Liu Yulin , Song Xinzhang , Wang Kaibo , He Zhirui , Pan Yingjie , Li Jiwei , Hai Xuying , Dong Lingbo , Shangguan Zhouping , Deng Lei
Published: October 2022

Forest succession can alter terrestrial ecosystem processes and potentially impact subsurface carbon dynamics. However, the effects of long‐term forest succession on soil microbial metabolic activity remain unclear. This study investigated a long‐term forest succession approximately ~160 years after farmland abandonment on the central Loess Plateau, China, to explore the changes in soil microbial metabolism following the forest succession. Among them, the soil basal respiration (BR), microbial quotient (qMB), and metabolic quotient (qCO2) were studied. The results showed that the BR and qCO2 were increased following forest succession, whereas the qMB showed the opposite trend. Forest succession also increased the activities of β‐1,4‐glucosidase (BG) and β‐D‐cellobiosidase (CBH). The increase of BR and qCO2 and the decrease of qMB occurred in the early stage (<60 years). However, the increase of BG and CBH mainly occurred in the later period (>100 years). Soil microbial metabolic activity was closely related to litter biomass, dissolved organic carbon, fungal, and bacterial community composition. In conclusion, long‐term forest succession changes soil microbial community structure and promotes soil organic carbon accumulation, while the increase of soil respiration and metabolism promotes the release of carbon element following forest succession, thus reducing soil microbial carbon utilization efficiency.
Peanut/sorghum intercropping drives specific variation in peanut rhizosphere soil properties and microbiomes under salt stress
Authors: Shi Xiaolong , Zhou Yufei , Guo Pei , Ren Jingyao , Zhang He , Dong Qiqi , Jiang Chunji , Zhong Chao , Zhang Zheng , Wan Shubo , Zhao Xinhua , Yu Haiqiu
Published: October 2022

Intercropping can promote positive plant–soil interactions resulting in improved nutrient availability and ecological fitness, with microbes playing a key role. However, the specific effects of peanut/sorghum intercropping on soil properties and microbial community remain unclear, especially under salt stress conditions. In this study, sole‐cropped peanut (SP) and intercropped peanut (IP) with sorghum in a field planting box experiment were performed under normal (N) and salt‐stress (S, 0.25% NaCl) conditions, aims to investigate the specific response of peanut rhizosphere soil properties and microbial community to salt stress. The results showed that soil salinity negatively affects soil nutrient availability and enzymatic activities. To a certain extent, S‐IP has a definite effect on the improvement of soil properties, and ammonium nitrogen (NH4+‐N) increased 5.45%, total phosphorus (TP) increased 8.01%, soil organic carbon (SOC) increased 4.02%, soil peroxidase (POD) increased 8.15%, soil nitrate reductase (NR) increased 17.07%, and soil fructose‐1,6‐biphosphate aldolase enzyme (FDA) increased 16.26% compared with S‐SP. Alterations of soil properties affect the microbial community structure and predicted function. Microbial community analysis revealed that the relative abundance of Massilia (5.79‐times), Conocybe (47.43‐times), Funneliformis (1.59‐times), and Talaromyces (14.49‐times) were significantly increased in S‐IP compared to S‐SP. Furthermore, the proportions of microbe associated with the saprotrophs were increased and pathogens were reduced in S‐IP than in S‐SP. Thus, peanut/sorghum intercropping under salt stress affects the potential functions of a microbial community by changing the soil properties and remodeling the microbial community, which had potential effects on improving the environmental adaptability and yield of peanuts.
Drug‐induced sleep endoscopy effect on intraoperative decision making in pediatric sleep surgery: A 2‐year follow up
Authors: Frederick Robert M. , Brandt Josiah , Sheyn Anthony
Published: October 2022

Objective

To further demonstrate sleep endoscopy's utility in improving surgical outcomes for pediatric OSA.

Methods

This is a retrospective review of surgically naïve patients <18 years old with diagnosed moderate–severe OSA who underwent DISE at the time of initial sleep surgery. Patients included in final analysis had both preoperative and postoperative polysomnograms. Surgical success was defined as an oAHI decrease by at least one diagnostic category. Residual OSA was defined as any patient with postoperative oAHI >1.

Results

A total of 106 patients had preoperative and postoperative polysomnograms. Patients with comorbidities comprised 53.8% of the group. Average BMI% was 88.2, with 75.5% classified as obese. The most common area of collapse was the base of tongue, occurring in 32.1% of patients. There was a statistically significant decrease from the mean preoperative oAHI of 29.7 to the mean postoperative oAHI of 6.6 (p < 0.001). Surgical success occurred in 76.4% of patients. A postoperative oAHI of <5 was achieved in 57.7% of patients with moderate or severe OSA. The average BMI% of patients who met surgical success was 86.4, while the average BMI% of patients who did not was 90.8. A postoperative oAHI of <5 was achieved in 68.4% of patients with a BMI% < 85, compared with 55.2% of patients with a BMI% ≥ 85.

Conclusion

This study supports the utilization of DISE during initial surgery for severe sleep apnea in the pediatric population. It was found to effectively aid in significantly reducing surgically naïve patients' mean oAHI.

Level of Evidence

Level III.
Magnifying Lens with Ultrabroadband Super‐Resolution Real Imaging
Authors: Zhou Yangyang , Li Jue , Chen Huanyang
Published: October 2022

In recent years, novel magnifying lenses have generated much attention, not only because of their intriguing physics but also for their ability to achieve real‐time super‐resolution imaging. However, these super‐resolution magnifying lenses have been limited to virtual imaging and narrow band hindering the practical applications of magnifying lens. Here, a method is proposed to design a real‐imaging magnifying lens with ultrabroadband super‐resolution real‐time imaging capability based on conformal transformation optics. As a proof of concept, a two dimensional (2D) magnifying lens is designed, and its ability of ultrabroadband real imaging (working bandwidth of 104% of central frequency) with sub‐diffraction resolution in the microwave region is experimentally verified. It is found that the designed 2D magnifying lens has good robustness of fabrication errors, which provides more flexibility for practical applications. Furthermore, a three dimensional (3D) magnifying lens is designed by rotating the 2D magnifying lens along its symmetric axis. The 3D magnifying lens also maintains excellent imaging performance consistent with the one of 2D magnifying lens. Both 2D and 3D magnifying lenses can be integrated into conventional microscopes, expanding their capabilities for color super‐resolution magnified real imaging and opening a new realm in ultrabroadband super‐resolution real imaging.
Strong and Omnidirectional Light Absorption from Ultraviolet to Near‐Infrared Using GST Metasurface
Authors: Li Chensheng , Pan Ruhao , Geng Guangzhou , Zheng Ruixuan , Gu Changzhi , Guo Haiming , Li Junjie
Published: October 2022

For the perfect light absorber, it has been a huge challenge to simultaneously realize ultra‐broadband and strong absorption of unpolarized light over a large angular range, though various materials and designs have been tried. The emergence of optical metasurface with powerful light field regulation ability provides a promising new strategy for achieving perfect absorbers. Here, a Ge2Sb2Te5 (GST)‐based metasurface with an average 92.5%/94.7% (experiment/simulation) absorptivity of unpolarized light, covering an ultra‐broadband from ultraviolet to near‐infrared region is designed and demonstrated. This GST‐based metasurface consists of double‐layer GST interspaced by SiO2 layer, and both field localizations in the top patterned GST layer and intrinsic loss of the bottom patternless GST layer together contribute to this broadband absorption over wide incident angles up to 70°. Strong absorbing ability, large angular responses, and feasibly scalable fabrication for such a perfect GST‐based metasurface absorber offer more promising application opportunities in integrated optoelectronic devices.
Enjoyment or autonomy? The interactive effect of brand ritual and brand personality on consumer purchase
Authors: Ran Yaxuan , Wan Echo Wen
Published: October 2022

The use of brand rituals is a pervasive tactic in business, but the marketing effectiveness of this practice largely remains unknown. In the present research, we postulate the contingent nature of brand rituals on consumer purchase. Based on the two countervailing processes—the enhancement of perceived enjoyment and the reduction of perceived autonomy, we suggest that the effectiveness of brand rituals is determined by the interaction between the degree of brand ritual (simple vs. sophisticated) and the brand personality (excitement vs. sincerity). By means of field and laboratory experiments in various product categories (i.e., fruit tea, juice, stationery, and hand cream), we show that for a sincere brand, a sophisticated brand ritual elicits higher consumer purchase than a simple brand ritual only via the process of enhanced enjoyment because its sincerity personality weakens the salience of the process of reduced autonomy. In contrast, for an exciting brand, a sophisticated brand ritual elicits lower consumer purchase than a simple brand ritual via the process of enhanced enjoyment but reduced autonomy (the autonomy route dominates the enjoyment route) because its exciting personality intensifies the salience of the process of reduced autonomy. In simple words, a sophisticated brand ritual benefits a sincere brand, but a simple one benefits an exciting brand. Our findings extend the research on ritual and brand ritual and offer implications for marketing practice regarding how to design a brand ritual more effectively.
The peer contagion effects and firms' innovation: Evidence from China
Authors: Qin Xian , Zhang Shiqiang , Liao Xianchun , Niu Haitao , Dnes Antony
Published: October 2022

The existing researches on firms' innovation ignore the influence of peer firms; thus, this paper empirically examines the peer contagion effects of firms' innovation in China. The results indicate firms' innovation is significantly influenced by peers, and the macro‐marketization and meso‐industry competition promote the effects, whereas the micro firm managerial ability inhibits them. The study also finds the influence mechanism in breakthrough innovation and incremental innovation is different. Further prioritization tests reveal marketization, and industry competition prioritizes the effects over managerial ability. Our conclusions enrich literature on peer contagion effects, factors influencing innovation, and dual innovation theory.
Does CSR influence privatization wave?
Authors: Chen Ding , Wang Leonard F. S. , Sun Ji
Published: October 2022

In this paper, we formulate a mixed oligopoly model with many public firms and the consumer's cognition of the CSR activity of private firms. We show that the privatization wave will be beneficial for incumbent firms while harming consumers; more importantly, from the perspective of social welfare, consumer cognition on CSR will suppress any privatization wave, while whether the degree of “Cheap‐Talk” CSR suppresses or boosts the privatization wave depends on the degree of “Cheap‐Talk” CSR and the number of incumbent public firms.
Droplet Microfluidics for the Label‐Free Extraction of Complete Phase Diagrams and Kinetics of Liquid–Liquid Phase Separation in Finite Volumes
Authors: Villois Alessia , Capasso Palmiero Umberto , Mathur Prerit , Perone Gaia , Schneider Timo , Li Lunna , Salvalaglio Matteo , deMello Andrew , Stavrakis Stavros , Arosio Paolo
Published: October 2022

Liquid–liquid phase separation of polymer and protein solutions is central in many areas of biology and material sciences. Here, an experimental and theoretical framework is provided to investigate the thermodynamics and kinetics of liquid–liquid phase separation in volumes comparable to cells. The strategy leverages droplet microfluidics to accurately measure the volume of the dense phase generated by liquid–liquid phase separation of solutions confined in micro‐sized compartments. It is shown that the measurement of the volume fraction of the dense phase at different temperatures allows the evaluation of the binodal lines that determine the coexistence region of the two phases in the temperature‐concentration phase diagram. By applying a thermodynamic model of phase separation in finite volumes, it is further shown that the platform can predict and validate kinetic barriers associated with the formation of a dense droplet in a parent dilute phase, therefore connecting thermodynamics and kinetics of liquid–liquid phase separation.
Ferroelectric Nanogap‐Based Steep‐Slope Ambipolar Transistor
Authors: Guan Yaodong , Guo Zhe , You Long
Published: October 2022

The subthreshold swing (SS) of metal–oxide‐semiconductor field‐effect transistors is limited to 60 mV dec−1 at room temperature by the Boltzmann tyranny, which restricts the scaling of the supply voltage. A nanogap‐based transistor employs a switchable nanoscale air gap as the channel, offering a steep‐slope switching process. Meanwhile, nanogaps featuring even sub‐3 nm can efficiently block the current flow, exhibiting the potential for tackling the short‐channel effect. Here, an electrically switchable ferroelectric nanogap to construct steep‐slope transistors, is exploited. An average SS of 15.9 mV dec−1 across 5 orders and a minimum SS of 13.23 mV dec−1 are obtained in the high current density range. The transistor exhibits excellent performance with near‐zero off‐state leakage current and a maximum on‐state current of 202 µA µm−1 at VDS = 0.5 V. In addition, the transistor can turn off with either a positive or negative increase in the gate voltage, exhibiting ambipolar characteristics.
Microenvironment Created by SnSe2 Vapor and Pre‐Selenization to Stabilize the Surface and Back Contact in Kesterite Solar Cells
Authors: Guo Jiajia , Mao Yang , Ao Jianping , Han Yanchen , Cao Chun , Liu Fangfang , Bi Jinlian , Wang Shenghao , Zhang Yi
Published: October 2022

The ambient air‐processed preparation of kesterite Cu2ZnSn(S,Se)4 (CZTSSe) thin film is highly promising for the fabrication of low‐cost and eco‐friendly solar cells. However, the Sn volatilization loss and formation of a thick Mo(S,Se)2 interfacial layer during the traditional selenization process pose challenges for fabricating high‐efficiency CZTSSe solar cells. Here, CZTS precursors prepared by a sol‐gel process in ambient air are selenized and assisted with SnSe2 vapor via one‐ and two‐step selenization to prepare a CZTSSe absorber on a Mo film and, subsequently, solar cells. For one‐step selenization, the thickness of the fine grain and Mo(S,Se)2 layers near the back contact can be significantly reduced with increasing SnSe2 vapor partial pressure in the mixed selenization atmosphere, while the device efficiency is only 7.97% due to the severe interface recombination. For two‐step selenization, the desired morphology and stoichiometry of the absorber can be achieved through the assistance of Sn‐poor precursors selenized with high SnSe2 vapor partial pressure to regulate the Sn content in CZTSSe, yielding the highest efficiency of 10.85%. This study improves the understanding of the key role of the microenvironment during film growth towards the production of high‐efficiency thin film solar cells and other photoelectronic devices.
Vitality‐Enhanced Dual‐Modal Tracking System Reveals the Dynamic Fate of Mesenchymal Stem Cells for Stroke Therapy
Authors: Xu Jianpei , Zhang Yuwen , Liu Yipu , You Yang , Li Fengan , Chen Yu , Xie Laozhi , Tong Shiqiang , Zhou Songlei , Liang Kaifan , Huang Yukun , Jiang Gan , Song Qingxiang , Mei Ni , Ma Fenfen , Gao Xiaoling , Wang He , Chen Jun
Published: October 2022

Mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) therapy via intravenous transplantation exhibits great potential for brain tissue regeneration, but still faces thorny clinical translation challenges as the unknown dynamic fate leads to the contentious therapeutic mechanism and the poor MSC viability in harsh lesions limits therapeutic efficiency. Here, a vitality‐enhanced dual‐modal tracking system is designed to improve engraftment efficiency and is utilized to noninvasively explore the fate of intravenous transplanted human umbilical cord‐derived MSCs during long‐term treatment of ischemic stroke. Such a system is obtained by bioorthogonally conjugating magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) contrast and near‐infrared fluorescence (NIRF) imaging nanoparticles to metabolic glycoengineered MSCs with a lipoic acid‐containing extracellular antioxidative protective layer. The dynamic fates of MSCs in multi‐dimensional space‐time evolution are digitally detailed for up to 28 days using MRI and NIRF imaging equipment, and the protective layer greatly shields MSCs from reactive oxygen spices (ROS) degradation, enhances MSC survival, and engraftment efficiency. Additionally, it is observed that the bioengineered MSCs exhibit dynamic intelligent responses corresponding to microenvironment remodeling and exert enhanced therapeutic effects. This dual‐modal tracking system enables long‐term tracking of MSCs while improving their viability at the lesion sites, which may serve as a valuable tool for expediting the clinical translation of MSC therapy.
Atom Absorption Energy Directed Symmetry‐Breaking Synthesis of Au–Ag Hierarchical Nanostructures and Their Efficient Photothermal Conversion
Authors: Zeng Pan , Hang Lifeng , Zhang Guofeng , Wang Yifan , Chen Zhiming , Yu Jie , Zhang Tao , Cai Weiping , Li Yue
Published: October 2022

Asymmetric plasmonic hierarchical nanostructures (HNs) are of great significance in optics, catalysis, and sensors, but the complex growth kinetics and lack of fine structure design limit their practical applications. Herein, a new atom absorption energy strategy is developed to achieve a series of Au–Ag HNs with the continuously tuned contact area in Janus and Ag island number/size on Au seeds. Different from the traditional passive growth mode, this strategy endows seed with a hand to capture the hetero atoms in a proactive manner, which is beyond the size, shape, and assembles of Au seed. Density functional theory reveals ththe adsorption of PDDA on Au surface leads to lower formation energy of Au–Ag bonds (−3.96 eV) than FSDNA modified Au surface (−2.44 eV). The competitive adsorption of two ligands on Au seed is the decisive factor for the formation of diverse Au–Ag HNs. In particular, the Au–Ag2 HNs exhibit outstanding photothermal conversion capability in the near‐infrared window, and in vivo experiments verify them as superior photothermal therapy agents. This work highlights the importance of the atom absorption energy strategy in unlocking the diversity of HNs and may push the synthesis and application of superstructures to a higher level.
“Brexit Means Brexit!”: Investigating the Production of Social Phenomena in Political Discourses
Authors: Meyenburg Imko
Published: October 2022

The United Kingdom's withdrawal from the European Union, known as Brexit, is arguably the most important political, social, and economic phenomenon in British post‐WWII history. This paper analyses parliamentary debates from December 2018 concerning the European Withdrawal Act, focusing on the epistemic modality of Member of Parliaments' (MP) statements, to investigate the ontology of Brexit. Epistemic modality refers to linguistic devices that allow modification with regards to confidence, truthfulness, and probability, and enables investigation of MPs' commitments. Commitments are a part of their status function declaration, which create institutional reality. Analysis of such commitments permits inference about the institutional reality of Brexit. A video abstract is available at
https://youtu.be/90RRWApg0rQ.
Analyte Detection: A Decade of Progress in the Development of Optical/Fluorescent Sensing Probes
Authors: Kaur Paramjit , Singh Kamaljit
Published: October 2022

The development of selective and sensitive chemical sensors capable of detecting metal ions, anions, neutral species, explosives and hazardous substances, selectively and sensitively has attracted considerable interest of various research groups. The presence of such analytes within the permissible limits is often beneficial, but the excess amounts may lead to lethal effects to both the environment as well as the living organisms. Owing to the toxicity of the heavy metal ions, toxic anions and nitro‐aromatics which are main constituents of explosives, the timely detection of these materials is most desirable to ensure safety and security of the mankind. In this personal account, we present several classes of molecular sensors that were specifically designed in our lab during the past decade for detecting several species in solutions, solid state as well as biological media. Modulation of the optical properties in response to the presence of guest species, led to selective and sensitive detection protocols, and was supported by the theoretical studies wherever possible. We have also extended the application of some of these probes for theon‐sitedetection of analytes by developing the paper strips, glass slides and even the wool and cotton fabrics loaded with probes. One such development represents detection of palladium in human urine and blood samples collected from clinical samples. Additionally, the sensing events in some cases have successfully been reproduced in the live cancer cells. Based on the ease and cost‐effective synthesis of the molecular probes, we hope that this account shall provide significant information to researchers in understanding the structure dependent sensing capabilities of the molecular probes.