bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influence of Nutrient Sources and Zinc on Growth and Yield of Babycorn (Zea mays L.)
Authors: Gouthami Degala , Debbarma Victor
Published: July 2022

Back Ground: The experiment was done on Baby corn crop it is a cereal grain taken from corn harvested early while the stalks are still small and immature, it contains 4.7 grams of carbs, 2.5 grams protein, 25 calories. Nitrogen deficiency is the major problem in these days it leads to stunted root and shoot growth and shoot water stress so nitrogen taken in highest quantity, by using chemical nitrogen crop growth will be faster but later on it leads to soil acidification. but by using organic manures we can provide nutrients required by plants and also it maintains CN ratio, maintain soil health and it doesn’t reduces yield.

Objectives: To evaluate the effect of nutrient sources and zinc on growth and yield of  babycorn.Methods: with goal of studying effect of nutrient sources and zinc on growth and yield of babycorn under Randomised Block Design with 9 treatments (T1-T9). The experiment details revealed that T9 [Vermicompost 3.3t/ha + Zinc 1.00 ppm foliar spray] produced maximum Plant height, dry weight, maximum crop growth rate at 45 DAS to 60 DAS interval, highest Number of cobs/ plant, highest length of cob, highest girth of cob, maximum cob weight with husk, highest cob weight without husk, highest cob yield, green fodder yield.

Conclusion: The combination of Vermicompost 3.3t/ha + Zinc 1.00 ppm foliar spray produced maximum Plant height (176.75 cm) and highest dry weight (88.42 g/plant) maximum crop growth rate at 45 DAS to 60 DAS interval (47.73 g/m2/day), highest Number of cobs/ plant (2.64), highest length of cob (17.89 cm), highest girth of cob (12.72 cm), maximum cob weight with husk (47.57 g/cob), highest cob weight without husk (11.71 g/cob) highest cob yield (6.07 tons/ha), green fodder yield (37.42 tons/ha).
Boosting Summer Mung (Vigna radiata L.) Production through Frontline Demonstration in Tarn Taran District of Punjab
Authors: Kumar Balwinder , Gill P. K. , Kumar Anil , Brar Navjot Singh
Published: July 2022

The present study was conducted to boost summer mung crop area during summer season of 2017 and 2018 with 130 front line demonstration (FLD’s) covering an area of 50 hectare (ha) in Tarn Taran district of Punjab to aware the farmers about improved agricultural technology in real farm situations. The results were compared between FLD and control plots. Latest crop production and protection technologies with improved summer mung varieties (SML 668 and SML 832 during 2017 and 2018, respectively) resulted in an average increase of 23% in the yield of summer mung. Technology gaps, extension gaps and technology indices were calculated to analyze the performance of these FLDs at farmers’ fields. The average extension gap and technology gap recorded were 2.05 q ha-1 and 1.4 q ha-1, respectively. Between both varieties of summer mung, lower technology index of 6.92 per cent in SML 668 in 2017 indicates the feasibility of this variety in existing farming situation in the district over SML 832. This proved that variety SML 668 performed better than SML 832. Sowing of high yielding varieties along with improved package of practices resulted in higher benefit-cost ratio (1.61) over farmers’ practice (1.35) during both years of study.
Phytotoxic Effect of Treated Wastewater on Seed Germination and Percent Root Elongation Inhibition in Some Vegetable Crops
Authors: Khelil Mohamed Naceur , Dimessi Rim Ghrib , Mahmoudi Malika , Hachicha Mohamed
Published: July 2022

Aims: Summer irrigations for citrus fruits and fodder are considered as pre-irrigations for growing annual crops in Tunisia. However, given the quality of this treated wastewater, pre-irrigation effect on the seed germination capacity remains unclear. We propose to study the effect of different concentrations of treated wastewater on the germination of some vegetables.

Methodology: This laboratory experiment investigates the effect of different concentration from 0 to 100% (0%, 20%,40%, 60%, 80% and 100%) of treated wastewater on seed germination (%), germination index (Ig), root elongation and root elongation inhibition index (REI%) for some vegetable crops, the most commonly used by farmers: Radish, Okra and Pea.

Results: Pea germination rate (%G) dropped significantly from 60% to 30% with WW concentration. The germination index (Ig) decreased for Radish and Pea seeds with increasing WW concentration; it decreases from 1.03 to 0.72 and from 0.8 to 0.33 for radish and pea, respectively. While, the sprouting index for okra increased from 1.24 to 2.2 with increasing WW concentration. According to the REI% values, there is no effect of WW concentration on the root elongation of okra. On the other hand, the most pronounced REI% was noticed for Pea which has shown positive REI% values for all the concentrations with an inhibition effect of about 67% for the 100% WW treatment. For the radish, the root elongation inhibition started from the 40% WW concentration.

Conclusion: The crops tested have been arranged in the following order: Okra>Radish>Pea depending on the tolerance to treated wastewater. We conclude that the effect of treated wastewater on seed germination is depending on crops species and we should take care before using the treated wastewater for pre-sowing irrigation purposes.
The Natural Capital approach: A framework for the successful recovery of nature in estuaries
Authors: Dowdall Lucy , Bowe Colm , Kirby Jason R.
Published: July 2022

Estuaries are unique and complex systems that are important for ecological, cultural and economic reasons. They provide valuable habitat for biodiversity and provide a wide range of regulating, cultural and provisioning ecosystem services.

Estuaries have a disproportionate importance to people in comparison to other habitats, which has resulted in high levels of utilization and environmental impact. Poor management, ineffective conservation approaches and global economic changes have resulted in many temperate estuaries becoming both economically and environmentally degraded.

We present an argument for the use of the Natural Capital approach as part of the wider green economic agenda in temperate estuaries to support both the environmental and economic recovery of these areas.

We make the case that in a habitat always likely to be subject to intense human pressure it provides a holistic decision‐making approach which considers ecological aspects alongside the ecosystem's anthropogenic importance and pressures. This allows for damage to be identified quickly and accelerates the process of designing and implementing solutions. It provides a framework for multiple partners with a material interest in maintaining a healthy estuarine environment providing multiple benefits to drive investment in natural capital and delivery of nature recovery.

We highlight some of the obstacles in implementing the Natural Capital approach in estuaries at scale, including collaboration and communication between stakeholders in various sectors, the existence of quality natural capital and environmental baselines and the need for partnership to create investment opportunities. We explore how these are being addressed and identify progress in the Natural Capital approach and how this can inform and advance the widespread implementation of the approach.
Superhydrophobic Stainless Steel Bipolar Plates with Fractal Structure for Fuel Cells by Nanosecond Laser Ablation
Authors: Yang Gang , Zhang Dongguang , Wu Yali , Xue Xiaoting , Liang Chenyu , Yang Jiayi , Xing Ruizhe
Published: July 2022

Bipolar plate (BP) is one of the crucial components in proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs). In extreme cold weather, massive vapor condensation happens right at vehicle start‐ups, which likely causes “water flooding” and thus shortens the lifespan of PEMFCs. Herein, a superhydrophobic stainless steel bipolar plate (SH‐SS BP) that is fabricated by nanosecond laser ablation is reported. Through a repeated low‐energy processing strategy, fractal surface microstructure is fabricated, which has not been reported for SS BP. By grafting stearic acid (SA) monolayer, a robust SH‐SS BP is obtained with a contact angle of 151.74°. The fractal microstructure greatly enhances the contact area between SH‐SS BP and membrane electrode assembly (MEA), which improves interfacial contact resistance (ICR: 9.816 mΩ cm2 at 1.5 MPa). The SH‐SS BP shows significantly enhanced anticorrosion performance (=  A cm−2) by effectively reducing penetration of corrosive. The ability of improving water management in PEMFC under extreme cold condition is further demonstrated in a simulated PEMFC. This study opens new opportunity to reinforce metallic BPs by a simple, low‐cost, and robust route, which is valuable in improving comprehensive weather fastness of PEMFC.
High‐Voltage Aluminium‐Sulfur Batteries with Functional Polymer Membrane
Authors: Zhang Dian , Chu Weiqin , Wang Dan‐Yang , Li Shuaixia , Zhao Shu , Zhang Xu , Fu Yongzhu , Yu Haijun
Published: July 2022

A high‐voltage aluminium‐sulfur (Al‐S) battery is developed by employing the reversible electrochemical oxidation of S, favoring a high discharge voltage of around 1.8 V (vs Al3+/Al). The reversible multiple‐electron transformation between positive‐ and negative‐valence S compounds is further realized for activating a high‐capacity Al‐S battery. The formation of sulfur chlorides as charge products of S, including S2Cl2(l) as the dominant one, has been clearly identified. Benefiting from a functional polymer membrane infiltrated with AlCl3/acetamide electrolyte, which can suppress unwanted electrolyte reactions, restrict the shuttling of sulfur chlorides across the separator, and stabilize the Al anode against degradation, the Al‐S battery can deliver largely enhanced performance, with a capacity of 861 mAh g−1, capacity retentions of 92.1%/79.0% within 50/200 cycles, and durability of 490 cycles. The new electrochemistry scenarios shed light on the development of S‐based secondary batteries with higher energy densities for future.
A Self‐Packageable and Tailorable Electrochromic Device based on the “Blood‐Coagulation” Mechanism
Authors: Ren Xi , Hu Shengyu , Jia Zhuofei , Qin Tingting , Sui Yiming , Wang Fangcheng , Pan Weisheng , Yang Cheng
Published: July 2022

Electrochromic (EC) smart windows offer a promising paradigm for intelligent control of heat and light, reducing ≈40% building‐energy expenses, which are widely expected as a key contributor to future global carbon neutrality and sustainability. Enabling arbitrarily shaped EC film devices can unlock promising capabilities in various smart building systems and intelligent color‐changeable wearable devices. Regrettably, their wide deployment has been largely limited by the complicated edge encapsulation processes; otherwise, the leakage/loss of electrolyte and environmental corrosions would rapidly lead to device failure. This article reports a blood coagulation‐analogous strategy to tackle this critical challenge by introducing an oxygen‐sensitive prepolymer (i.e., alkyd resin) as the electrolyte additive, making it free of packaging. When exposed to the air, this prepolymer can rapidly cure and form a dense solid barrier through a free radical reaction with the CH bond on the 1,4‐diene side chains, without sacrificing any EC performances, including excellent mechanical flexibility and robustness. Besides the fast self‐packageable and arbitrarily tailorable capabilities, they can also deliver outstanding environmental‐stability after harsh aging. This mechanism potentially makes large‐scale customized production and thus the application of EC devices become possible and may significantly boost the broad application of such a sustainable and fashionable technology.
Optical Control of Tissue Regeneration through Photostimulation of Organic Semiconducting Nanoparticles
Authors: Onorato Giada , Fardella Federica , Lewinska Anna , Gobbo Federico , Tommasini Giuseppina , Wnuk Maciej , Tino Angela , Moros Maria , Antognazza Maria Rosa , Tortiglione Claudia
Published: July 2022

Next generation bioengineering strives to identify crucial cues that trigger regeneration of damaged tissues, and to control the cells that execute these programs with biomaterials and devices. Molecular and biophysical mechanisms driving embryogenesis may inspire novel tools to reactivate developmental programs in situ. Here nanoparticles based on conjugated polymers are employed for optical control of regenerating tissues by using an animal with unlimited regenerative potential, the polyp Hydra, as in vivo model, and human keratinocytes as an in vitro model to investigate skin repair. By integrating animal, cellular, molecular, and biochemical approaches, nanoparticles based on poly‐3‐hexylthiophene (P3HT) are shown able to enhance regeneration kinetics, stem cell proliferation, and biomolecule oxidation levels. Opposite outputs are obtained with PCPDTBT‐NPs (Poly[2,6‐(4,4‐bis‐(2‐ethylhexyl)‐4H‐cyclopenta [2,1‐b;3,4‐b′] dithiophene)‐alt‐4,7(2,1,3‐benzothiadiazole)], causing a beneficial effect on Hydra regeneration but not on the migratory capability of keratinocytes. These results suggest that the artificial modulation of the redox potential in injured tissues may represent a powerful modality to control their regenerative potential. Importantly, the possibility to fine‐tuning materials’ photocatalytic efficiency may enable a biphasic modulation over a wide dynamic range, which can be exploited to augment the tissue regenerative capacity or inhibit the unlimited potential of cancerous cells in pathological contexts.
Bias Temperature Instability of Multilayer ReS2 FET with α‐MoO3 Passivation
Authors: Chun Jungu , Lee Jaewoo , Cho Hyeran , Kim Gyu‐Tae
Published: July 2022

2D semiconductors are regarded as promising candidates for channel applications in the next generation of field effect transistors (FETs) with sub‐5 nm pitch designs. Among 2D transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs), rhenium disulfide (ReS2) is reported to have weak interaction among neighboring layers, resulting in more susceptibility to the functionalization of the surface channel. The bias temperature instability (BTI) of ReS2 FETs with α‐molybdenum trioxide (α‐MoO3) passivation that functions as a charge buffer layer is investigated. The transconductance (gm) with a passivation layer shows the saturation behavior under the critical gate voltage even with cumulative electric stress. In addition, unintentional shifts of threshold voltages (VTH) are significantly reduced, which is attributed to the effects of the α‐MoO3 passivation. The electron transfer with the passivation effect suggests a way of surface engineering for controlling the 2D devices with enhanced stabilities.
Hexagonal Boron Nitride Nanosheets Protect Exfoliated Black Phosphorus Layers from Ambient Oxidation
Authors: Bartus Pravda Cora , Hegedűs Tímea , Oliveira Eliezer Fernando , Berkesi Dániel , Szamosvölgyi Ákos , Kónya Zoltán , Vajtai Róbert , Kukovecz Ákos
Published: July 2022

Black phosphorus‐based 2D materials have yet to demonstrate their full application potential because of the well‐known sensitivity of phosphorene to spontaneous oxidation under ambient conditions. It is hypothesized that this unfavorable process can be prevented by drop‐casting hexagonal boron nitride (h‐BN) nanosheets on phosphorene. Here, both materials are prepared by sonication‐assisted liquid‐phase exfoliation of bulk materials and characterized by transmission electron microscopy and Raman spectroscopy. Raman spectroscopy is also utilized for the real‐time monitoring of phosphorene oxidation by calculating the A1g/A2g intensity ratio. This value drops below 0.5 (corresponding to complete oxidation) within 100 min for pristine phosphorene layers in the air. However, it remains constant above 0.6 (indicating no oxidation) when phosphorene covered by h‐BN sheets is left in the air. Moreover, deploying h‐BN sheets at midterm during the ambient oxidation reaction is able to halt the process and maintain a steady 0.5 < A1g/A2g < 0.6 Raman intensity ratio. The experimental results are successfully interpreted within the developed theoretical framework by the charge distribution of h‐BN, which keeps O2 molecules from interacting with its surface, and the fact that the first O2 molecules in contact react with the edges of h‐BN, thus creating a barrier for subsequently arriving O2 molecules.
Recent Developments and Future Prospects of Transition Metal Compounds as Electrode Materials for Potassium‐Ion Hybrid Capacitors
Authors: Wang Zidong , Hong Ping , Zhao Huaping , Lei Yong
Published: July 2022

Potassium‐ion hybrid capacitors (PIHCs) have attracted considerable attention as emerging electrochemical energy storage devices for simultaneously achieving high energy and power density, which the key to success is the development of compatible electrode materials for both battery‐type anode and capacitive cathode. Among numerous electrode materials, transition metal compounds (including oxides, chalcogenide, carbides, and nitrides) show great potential owing to their high theoretical capacity to achieve high energy density, but their sluggish reaction kinetics restrict the attainable power density. Hence, in the last few years, different strategies are proposed to improve the performance of transition metal compounds as electrode materials for PIHCs, and significant progress is achieved. Herein, this review outlines recent advances of employing transition metal compounds as electrode materials for PIHCs. The performance and challenges of different transition metal compounds are discussed in detail. Finally, the future prospects of practical applications of transition metal compounds in PIHCs are briefly discussed.
Programmable Anisotropic Hydrogels with Localized Photothermal/Magnetic Responsive Properties
Authors: Chen Hang , Zhang Xiaoyuan , Shang Li , Su Zhiqiang
Published: July 2022

Programmable smart materials that can respond locally to specific stimuli hold great potential for many applications, but controllable fabrication of these materials remains challenging. This work reports the development of novel programmable anisotropic materials with both magnetic and photothermal stimuli‐responsiveness, which are fabricated by anchoring thermosensitive poly(N‐isopropyl acrylamide) (PNIPAm) and magnetic Fe3O4 nanoparticles on the surface of MoS2 nanosheets. Further embedding PNIPAm‐MoS2/Fe3O4 into 3D‐printed hydrogel cubes results in stimuli‐responsive building blocks, and the magnetic field can precisely control their orientation and near‐infrared (NIR) light absorbing property. Particularly, the variation of the orientation of MoS2/Fe3O4 block results in obvious changes of their photothermal efficiency and optical property. By exploiting the anisotropy of MoS2/Fe3O4 and their NIR light responsiveness, thermally‐induced phase transitions in individual 3D printed hydrogel building block can be locally controlled for magnetic field‐assisted programming a quick response (QR) code. Alternatively, fluorescent QR code with high contrast and security level can be achieved by photothermal‐induced release of fluorescent dyes. These 3D printed magnetically programmed hydrogels hold great potential for application in information storage, intelligent materials, and precise therapy.
Demonstration of PdSe2 CMOS Using Same Metal Contact in PdSe2 n‐/p‐MOSFETs through Thickness‐Dependent Phase Transition
Authors: Seo Jae Eun , Park Eunpyo , Das Tanmoy , Kwak Joon Young , Chang Jiwon
Published: July 2022

In this study, PdSe2 n‐ and p‐metal‐oxide semiconductor field‐effect transistors (MOSFETs) are realized using the same conventional metal contact without any doping processes through utilizing the thickness‐dependent phase transition in PdSe2. PdSe2 is semiconducting with a sizable band gap in a few layers while semimetallic in bulk. With the thin semiconducting PdSe2 for the channel and the conventional metal source/drain, an n‐type behavior is achieved, whereas a p‐type behavior with the thin PdSe2 channel and the thick semimetallic PdSe2 source/drain. To understand the carrier injection at the interface between the thin PdSe2 channel and the thick PdSe2 source/drain, a rigorous analysis of the band alignment and the temperature‐dependent transfer characteristics is presented to extract the Schottky barrier height at the interface. Additionally, interconnecting PdSe2 n‐ and p‐MOSFETs successfully demonstrate complementary metal‐oxide semiconductor (CMOS) inverter with clear voltage transfer characteristics. The proposed approach to control the polarity of PdSe2 MOSFETs using the unique thickness‐dependent phase transition in PdSe2 is promising for realizing the CMOS logic circuit with the same channel material and single contact metal.
In Situ Plating of Mg Sodiophilic Seeds and Evolving Sodium Fluoride Protective Layers for Superior Sodium Metal Anodes
Authors: Zhao Lingfei , Hu Zhe , Huang Zhongyi , Tao Ying , Lai Wei‐Hong , Zhao Along , Liu Qiannan , Peng Jian , Lei Yaojie , Wang Yun‐Xiao , Cao Yuliang , Wu Chao , Chou Shu‐Lei , Liu Hua Kun , Dou Shi Xue
Published: July 2022

Sodium metal batteries are recognized as promising candidates for next‐generation energy storage devices, as a result of their high energy density, low redox potential, and cheap material price. Na metal anodes, however, generally exhibit notorious problems, including progressively thickened interfaces with active Na loss and Na metal dendrite growth with safety hazards. Herein, a lightweight aerogel consisting of MgF2 nanocrystals grown on a reduced graphene oxide (RGO) aerogel matrix (MgF2@RGO) is rationally designed as a multifunctional host material for Na metal anodes. The MgF2 nanocrystals can be electrochemically converted in situ into Mg and NaF nanograins during the first Na plating process, in which the Mg works as sodiophilic nucleation seeds for Na plating and NaF plays a key role in suppressing Na dendrite growth. Significantly, the Na metal anodes with the MgF2@RGO aerogel host deliver significantly enhanced Coulombic efficiency and dramatically improved cycling stability for more than 1600 h. The morphology evolution confirms the advantages of the Na metal anode with the MgF2@RGO host, which exhibits dense and flat interfaces. By pairing with the Na3V2(PO4)3 cathode, the Na metal batteries achieve stable cycling and good rate capability, suggesting the potential of the Na/MgF2@RGO anode for practical applications.
Intercropping forage cactus genotypes with wood species in a semi‐arid environment
Authors: Lira Elder Cunha de , Felix Evaldo dos Santos , Oliveira Filho Tarcísio José de , Alves Rita de Cássia , Lima Renato Pereira , Souza José Thyago Aires , de Oliveira Jaqueline Araújo , de Araújo Filipe Gomes , Cavalcanti Mônica Tejo , Araújo Jucilene Silva
Published: July 2022

Forage cactus (Opuntia spp. and Nopalea spp.) is a crop tolerant to drought, high temperatures, and less fertile soils, which favors its cultivation in arid and semi‐arid regions and production of cladodes to animal feed. Intercropping may improve water use efficiency and increase agricultural production sustainability. The aim of this research was to evaluate the growth and yield of forage cactus genotypes intercropped with timber species under semi‐arid conditions. Three forage cactus genotypes, erect prickly pear ‘Orelha de Elefante Mexicana’ [O. stricta (Haw.) Haw.], ‘Miúda’ [N. cochenillifera (L.) Salm‐Dyck: syn. O. cochenillifera (L.) Mill.], and ‘Baiana’ [N. cochenillifera (L.) Salm‐Dyck] in three cropping systems (monocropping; intercropped with Prosopis juliflora (Sw.) DC.; and intercropped with Mimosa caesalpiniifolia Benth.) were studied. All species were irrigated with treated domestic effluent water. Plants were evaluated after 2 yr of cultivation. The forage cactus intercropped with timber species had lower cladode weight, dry matter yield, and lower carrying capacity than forage cactus in monocropped system regardless of genotype. These results suggest that timber species may inhibit the yield of forage cactus, and intercropping is not recommended. In addition, there was no significant difference in the performance of forage cactus when intercropping with M. caesalpiniifolia and P. juliflora. The P. juliflora had greater growth performance when compared with M. caesalpiniifolia intercropped with Miúda and Orelha de Elefante Mexicana. However, when intercropped with the Baiana, the growth of P. juliflora and M. caesalpiniifolia are similar to each other.
Polyploidization: Consequences of genome doubling on the evolutionary potential of populations
Authors: Clo Josselin
Published: July 2022

Whole‐genome duplication is common in plants and is considered to have a broad range of effects on individuals' phenotypes and genomes and to be an important driver of plant adaptation and speciation. Despite their increased capacity to cope with challenging environments, polyploid lineages are generally as prone to extinction, and sometimes more prone, than their diploid progenitors. Although several explanations have been proposed to explain the short‐ and long‐term disadvantages of polyploidy on the survival probability of populations, the consequences of whole‐genome doubling on the heritable variance remain poorly studied. Whole‐genome doubling can have major effects not only on the genetics, but also on the ecology and life history of the populations. Modifications of other properties of populations can reverse the effects of polyploidization per se on heritable variance. In this synthesis, I summarize the empirical and theoretical knowledge about the multifarious consequences of genome doubling on the heritable variance of quantitative traits and on the evolutionary potential of polyploid populations compared to their diploid progenitors. I propose several ways to decipher the consequences of whole‐genome doubling on survival probability and to study the further consequences of shifting the ecological niche and life‐history traits of a population. I also highlight some practical considerations for comparing the heritable variance of a trait among different cytotypes. Such investigations appear to be timely and necessary to understand more about the paradoxical aspects of polyploidization and to understand the evolutionary potential of polyploid lineages in a global warming context.
Sources and consequences of mismatch between leaf disc and whole‐leaf leaf mass per area (LMA)
Authors: Maenpuen Phisamai , Katabuchi Masatoshi , Onoda Yusuke , Zhou Cong , Zhang Jiao‐Lin , Chen Ya‐Jun
Published: July 2022

Premise

Leaf mass per area (LMA), which is an important functional trait in leaf economic spectrum and plant growth analysis, is measured from leaf discs or whole leaves. Differences between the measurement methods may lead to large differences in the estimates of LMA values.

Methods

We examined to what extent estimates of LMA based on whole leaves match those based on discs using 334 woody species from a wide range of biomes (tropics, subtropics, savanna, and temperate), whether the relationship varied by leaf morphology (tissue density, leaf area, leaf thickness), punch size (0.6‐ and 1.0‐cm diameter), and whether the extent of intraspecifc variation for each species matches.

Results

Disc‐based estimates of species mean LMA matched the whole‐leaf estimates well, and whole‐leaf LMA tended to be 9.69% higher than leaf‐disc LMA. The ratio of whole‐leaf LMA to leaf‐disc LMA was higher for species with higher leaf tissue density and larger leaves, and variance in the ratio was greater for species with lower leaf tissue density and thinner leaves. Estimates based on small leaf discs also inflated the ratio. The extent of the intraspecific variation only weakly matched between whole‐leaf and disc‐based estimates (R2 = 0.08).

Conclusions

Our results suggest that simple conversion between whole‐leaf and leaf‐disc LMA is difficult for species obtained with a small leaf punch, but it should be possible for species obtained with a large+ leaf punch. Accurately representing leaf traits will likely require careful selection between leaf‐disc and whole‐leaf traits depending on the objectives. Quantifying intraspecific variation using leaf discs should be also considered with caution.
Phenotypic continuum between POLE‐related recessive disorders: A case report and literature review
Authors: Roberts Maegan E. , Nimrichter Sarah , Marshall Megan L. , Flynn Elizabeth K. , Person Rick , Hruska Kathleen S. , Kruszka Paul , Juusola Jane
Published: July 2022

POLE is a pleiotropic gene with phenotypic expression of pathogenic variants depending on the type of variant, impact on the protein, and mode of inheritance. Heterozygous missense variants located within the exonuclease domain have been shown to result in polymerase proofreading‐associated polyposis (PPAP) which is characterized by an increased risk for colon polyps and colorectal cancer. Biallelic variants resulting in markedly reduced amounts of normal protein have been reported in two separate recessive pediatric syndromes: facial dysmorphism, immunodeficiency, livedo, and short stature as well as intrauterine growth restriction, metaphyseal dysplasia, adrenal hypoplasia congenital, and genital anomalies. Here we report two siblings identified to have POLE c.1686 + 32C > G in trans with POLE p.(Glu709*) via exome sequencing. A detailed review of the reported phenotypes in these two siblings and from available literature revealed that individuals with biallelic POLE pathogenic variants resulting in partial loss‐of‐function present with a similar phenotype: short stature and facial dysmorphism with or without immunodeficiency. These data suggest a phenotypic continuum between the previously reported POLE‐related recessive disorders.
Food availability and male deference in the female‐dominant ring‐tailed lemur, Lemur catta
Authors: Parga Joyce A. , Thurau Emma
Published: July 2022

Female dominance, a trait common to some Malagasy lemurs, has been viewed as an adaptation that decreases intersexual feeding competition. A hypothesized relationship exists between male “deference” (male submission in the absence of female aggression) and food availability. Sauther (1993) suggested that male ring‐tailed lemurs at the Duke Lemur Center (Pereira et al., 1990) show more deference to females than do males in the wild owing to food abundance in captivity. To reexamine the link between food availability and male deference, we studied agonism and foraging in two nonwild ring‐tailed lemur (Lemur catta) populations: the Los Angeles Zoo and St. Catherines Island (SCI). On SCI, we collected data under two feeding conditions: Low Provisions (low food availability) and High Provisions (high food availability). As expected, male deference measures at our study sites were more similar to measures of deference from other studies of L. catta in captivity than in the wild. Additionally, the change at SCI from low to high food availability was associated with increased male deference to females. Interestingly, male proximity to females during foraging at this location did not notably change between the low to high food availability conditions, suggesting that males were food competitors of females just as often under both feeding conditions. The increase in male deference under conditions of high food availability on SCI was due to males withdrawing more rapidly from female approaches during agonistic interactions. Hence, where food is more abundant, male L. catta are more likely to show submission to females, which appears to be a self‐serving means of avoiding female aggression. Lemur males who are well‐fed appear less apt to risk female aggression to obtain resources than more nutritionally stressed males. Our results support the view of female dominance in lemurs as an adaptive evolutionary response to conditions of resource limitation.
Compound specific isotope evidence points to use of freshwater resources as weaning food in Middle Neolithic Paris Basin
Authors: Cheung Christina , Herrscher Estelle , Thomas Aline
Published: July 2022

Objectives

A clear understanding of past weaning practices can provide invaluable insights into social issues such as infant care, fertility rate, and demographic patterns in past societies. This study presents the first archeological research employing compound specific isotope analysis (CSIA) for the reconstruction of past weaning practices.

Methods

Weaning practices of two Middle Neolithic communities in the Paris Basin region: Balloy (BLR) and Vignely (VPB), are evaluated by combining previously published bone collagen stable carbon, nitrogen, and sulfur (n = 66) isotope analysis with new compound specific carbon and nitrogen isotope compositions of bone collagen (n = 10).

Results

Our results demonstrate that the diets of individuals from BLR and VPB likely incorporated freshwater resources. The signals of freshwater resources consumption are even stronger among subadults, suggesting that freshwater resources were used as weaning food at these sites.

Conclusions

The implications of our result are threefold. Currently many CSIA studies in archeology only involve either carbon or nitrogen. Our data shows that it is important to conduct CSIA on both carbon and nitrogen for a more integrated picture. Secondly, our data demonstrates that the use of a protein‐based weaning food—instead of a starch‐based weaning food (such as cereal gruel)—was likely more prevalent among the Middle Neolithic communities in the Paris Basin Region than previously thought. The finding thus prompts a rethinking of the role of protein‐based weaning food in other archeological contexts. Lastly, the common assumption that weaning foods and adult diets share similar isotopic compositions can be problematic, as the use of protein‐based, high trophic‐level weaning foods can skew the δ15N weaning curve and produce an erroneously late estimation for weaning ages.
Pincer‐Supported Perfluororhodacyclopentanes: High Nucleophilicity of the M−CF Bond
Authors: Hayashi Shinya , Murayama Toshiki , Kusumoto Shuhei , Nozaki Kyoko
Published: July 2022

Perfluororhodacyclopentane supported by PBP pincer ligand PBP‐RhIII(CF2)4 (2) was prepared from PBP‐RhI‐PPh3 (1) and tetrafluoroethylene (TFE). By scXRD analysis, it was revealed that the Rh−CF bond trans to the boryl ligand was largely elongated compared to the one in the apical position. Although M−CF bonds of perfluorometallacyclopentanes are known to be very stable, 2 shows high reactivity toward hydrogenolysis, iodinolysis and protonolysis, thanks to the strong trans‐effect of the highly σ‐donating boryl ligand. Analogous PCP pincer complex PCP−RhIII(CF2)4 (4) showed slower reaction rate both in oxidative cyclization with TFE and hydrogenolysis of Rh−CF bond. Catalytic production of 1,1,2,2,3,3,4,4‐octafluorobutane from two TFE and hydrogen in one pot was achieved via repetitive oxidative cyclization of TFE and Rh followed by the hydrogenolysis of Rh−CF bonds. This report demonstrates the possible application of PBP‐pincer skeleton to the preparation of fluorinated compounds from TFE.
Discovery of the Biosynthetic Pathway of Beticolin 1 Reveals a Novel Non‐Heme Iron‐Dependent Oxygenase for Anthraquinone Ring Cleavage
Authors: Hou Xiaodong , Xu Huibin , Deng Zhiwei , Yan Yijun , Yuan Zhenbo , Liu Xuanzhong , Su Zengping , Yang Sai , Zhang Yan , Rao Yijian
Published: July 2022

This study used light‐mediated comparative transcriptomics to identify the biosynthetic gene cluster of beticolin 1 in Cercospora. It contains an anthraquinone moiety and an unusual halogenated xanthone moiety connected by a bicyclo[3.2.2]nonane. During elucidation of the biosynthetic pathway of beticolin 1, a novel non‐heme iron oxygenase BTG13 responsible for anthraquinone ring cleavage was discovered. More importantly, the discovery of non‐heme iron oxygenase BTG13 is well supported by experimental evidence: (i) crystal structure and the inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry revealed that its reactive site is built by an atypical iron ion coordination, where the iron ion is uncommonly coordinated by four histidine residues, an unusual carboxylated‐lysine (Kcx377) and water; (ii) Kcx377 is mediated by His58 and Thr299 to modulate the catalytic activity of BTG13. Therefore, we believed this study updates our knowledge of metalloenzymes.
Circularly Polarized Radioluminescence from Chiral Perovskite Scintillators for Improved X‐ray Imaging
Authors: Li Ming , Wang Yumin , Yang Liangwei , Chai Zhifang , Wang Yaxing , Wang Shuao
Published: July 2022

Scintillators display radioluminescent properties when irradiated by high‐energy photons and therefore play an essential role in radiation detection. The current inventory of scintillators is overwhelmingly represented by achiral structures, where the radioluminescence propagates isotropically after generation. Herein, we demonstrate that chiral perovskites of (R‐3AP)PbBr3Cl⋅H2O (R‐3APP) and (S‐3AP)PbBr3Cl⋅H2O (S‐3APP) emerge as a new type of scintillator displaying a distinct property of circularly polarized radioluminescence (CPRL). A high quantum yield of 27.6 %, high luminescence dissymmetric factors (glum) of 4×10−2, and high X‐ray absorption coefficients were observed for these compounds. As proof of concept, we fabricated a polarized scintillator pair by assembling chiral scintillator crystals, which provides a new strategy to attenuate optical crosstalk between the scintillators by precisely controlling the radioluminescence propagation and improves the X‐ray imaging quality at the boundary region.
Water sorption, thermal, and fire resistance properties of natural shell‐based epoxy composites
Authors: Zamani Kianoosh , Kocaman Suheyla , Işık Murat , Soydal Ulku , Özmeral Nimet , Ahmetli Gulnare
Published: July 2022

In this study, walnut shell (WSh), hazelnut shell (HSh), and mussel shell (MSh) waste as inexpensive reinforcements were recycled for the preparation of epoxy composite materials. Subsequent used inexpensive fillers are chars (WShC and HShC), which are the pyrolysis solid products of the natural WSh and HSh wastes. Three types of epoxy resins: bisphenol‐A type (DGEBA), modified with polyurethane (MER with PU), and rubber modified (MER with rubber) epoxy resins were used as the matrix in MSh composites. Thermogravimetric analysis of the composites showed that the thermal strength of the epoxy matrix increased significantly with the MSh and chars. The best water sorption results were obtained with the MSh. The contact angle values of MSh composites prepared with DGEBA epoxy resin were quite high (111°–113.5°) and their water retention values ranged from 0.2% to 0.32%. The composites that were produced using 50 wt% chars and the same epoxy resin showed better flammability stability. The full extinction times were determined as 63 and 58 s for WShC and HShC composites, respectively.
Cu‐Based Organic‐Inorganic Composite Materials for Electrochemical CO2Reduction
Authors: Hou Man , Shi Yong xia , Li Jun jun , Gao Zengqiang , Zhang Zhicheng
Published: July 2022

Electrochemical CO2reduction reaction (CO2RR) is an attractive pathway to convert CO2into value‐added chemicals and fuels. Copper (Cu) is the most effective monometallic catalyst for converting CO2into multi‐carbon products, but suffers from high overpotentials and poor selectivity. Therefore, it is essential to design efficient Cu‐based catalyst to improve the selectivity of specific products. Due to the combination of advantages of organic and inorganic composite materials, organic‐inorganic composites exhibit high catalytic performance towards CO2RR, and have been extensively studied. In this review, the research advances of various Cu‐based organic‐inorganic composite materials in CO2RR, i. e., organic molecular modified‐metal Cu composites, Cu‐based molecular catalyst/carbon carrier composites, Cu‐based metal organic framework (MOF) composites, and Cu‐based covalent organic framework (COF) composites are systematically summarized. Particularly, the synthesis strategies of Cu‐based composites, structure‐performance relationship, and catalytic mechanisms are discussed. Finally, the opportunities and challenges of Cu‐based organic‐inorganic composite materials in CO2RR are proposed.
Energiebasierte direkte Berechnung der Bewehrung zur Rissbreitenbegrenzung
Authors: Fehling Ekkehard , Lorenz Paul , Schlicke Dirk
Published: July 2022

Zur Berechnung der Rissbreiten werden in der Literatur sowie in vielen Normen zum einen Rissabstände und zum anderen mittlere Dehnungen benutzt. Zur Berechnung der Rissabstände muss die mittlere Verbundspannung bekannt sein. Diese wird in vielen Berechnungsansätzen vereinfachend als ein konstanter Wert angenommen. Auf der Grundlage eines realitätsnahen Ansatzes des Schlupfverlaufs s(x) über die Länge haben Tue und König aufgezeigt, wie man die mittlere Verbundspannung abhängig von der Rissbreite bestimmen kann, um die Rissbreitenberechnung zu verbessern. Dieser Beitrag beschreibt einen energiebasierten Ansatz, mit dessen Hilfe für jeden beliebigen Zusammenhang von örtlicher Verbundspannung und Schlupf (Verbundgesetz) die Bewehrung zur Rissbreitenbeschränkung direkt ermittelt werden kann. Der Ansatz wird auf das bekannte Verbundgesetz mit Potenzansatz angewendet und hinsichtlich der Übereinstimmung mit Versuchsergebnissen untersucht. Obwohl mittlere Dehnungen, Rissabstand und mittlere Verbundspannung nicht explizit in den Formeln genutzt werden, ist die Lösung mathematisch exakt im Rahmen des zugrunde gelegten Zusammenhangs von örtlicher Verbundspannung und Schlupf.
α‐Asarone alleviates allergic asthma by stabilizing mast cells through inhibition of ERK/JAK2‐STAT3 pathway
Authors: Bai Haoyun , Xue Zhuoyin , Zhang Wen , Feng Chaohua , Zhou Zhenqi , Hu Shiling , Zhang Yongjing , Qin Qiaohong , Wu Yuanyuan , Sun Xiuzhen , Zhou Yuhan , Wang Nan
Published: July 2022

Asthma is a heterogeneous disease related to numerous inflammatory cells, among which mast cells play an important role in the early stages of asthma. Therefore, treatment of asthma targeting mast cells is of great research value. α‐Asarone is an important anti‐inflammatory component of the traditional Chinese medicine Acorus calamus L, which has a variety of medicinal values. To investigate whether α‐asarone can alleviate asthma symptoms and its mechanism. In this study, we investigated the effect of α‐asarone on mast cell activation in vivo and in vitro. The release of chemokines or cytokines, AHR (airway hyperresponsiveness), and mast cell activation were examined in a mast cell‐dependent asthma model. Western blot was performed to determine the underlying pathway. α‐Asarone inhibited the degranulation of LAD2 (laboratory allergic disease 2) cells and decreased IL‐8, MCP‐1, histamine, and TNF‐α in vitro. α‐Asarone reduced paw swelling and leakage of Evans blue, as well as serum histamine, CCL2, and TNF‐α in vivo. In the asthma model, α‐asarone showed an inhibitory effect on AHR, inflammation, mast cells activation, infiltration of inflammatory cells, and the release of IL‐5 and IL‐13 in lung tissue. α‐Asarone decreased the levels of phosphorylated JAK2, phosphorylated ERK, and phosphorylated STAT3 induced by C48/80. Our findings suggest that α‐asarone alleviates allergic asthma by inhibiting mast cell activation through the ERK/JAK2‐STAT3 pathway.
Pharmacokinetic study of deufruquintinibs in rats by HPLC–MS/MS after oral administration
Authors: Hu Junfeng , Liu Wei , Wang Ying , Chen Xin , Guo Yanwei , Peng Qianqian , Guo Jian , Zhang Hongqi , Zhang Shizhong , Deng Gaigai
Published: July 2022

A sensitive and specific high‐performance liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry method was established to quantitatively determine the pharmacokinetics of fruquintinib (HMPL‐013) and its derivatives [deufruquintinib‐3D (HMPL‐013‐3D), deufruquintinib‐6D (HMPL‐013‐6D) and deufruquintinib‐9D (HMPL‐013‐9D)] in rats. Detection was performed on a triple quadrupole mass spectrometer in multiple reaction monitoring mode. The method established in this assay was successfully applied to a pharmacokinetic study of HMPL‐013 and HMPL‐013‐Ds after oral administration. These results showed that HMPL‐013‐Ds had longer half‐life and larger area under the plasma concentration–time curve than HMPL‐013, especially HMPL‐013‐6D, which provides a significant basis for innovative ideas for drug structure transformation to reduce drug administration frequency and dosage.
Analyzing coordination strategy of circular supply chain in re‐commerce industry: A game theoretic approach
Authors: Agrawal Saurabh , Kumar Dharmendra , Singh Rajesh Kumar , Singh Raj Kumar
Published: July 2022

The circular economy seeks to reduce waste by reusing, refurbishing, and recycling used products. It increases the resource value of used goods. In this study, we proposed a circular business gap exploiter model in which a re‐commerce company exploits residual value in product systems utilization. A game‐theoretic approach is used to investigate the coordination problem of a two‐echelon circular supply chain with e‐commerce and re‐commerce companies. In addition, we proposed a coordinated structure under the revenue sharing contract and the two‐part tariff contract through Nash negotiation to address the coordination problems. We compared the centralized and decentralized model findings and observed that the decentralized model shows potential for improvement. We showed model's applicability through numerical examples and sensitivity analysis to indicate how parameters such as wholesale price and retail price affect channel decisions and member profits. The results show that a two‐part tariff contract may efficiently coordinate the circular supply chain. The study shows that under a circular business model, two tactics may be applied. These are extending product value and extending resource value.
Manganese Oxide as a Promoter for Copper Catalysts in CO2 and CO Hydrogenation
Authors: Dalebout Remco , Barberis Laura , Visser Nienke L. , van der Hoeven Jessi E. S. , van der Eerden Ad M. J. , Stewart Joseph A. , Meirer Florian , de Jong Krijn P. , de Jongh Petra E.
Published: July 2022

In this work, we discuss the role of manganese oxide as a promoter in Cu catalysts supported on graphitic carbon during hydrogenation of CO2 and CO. MnOx is a selectivity modifier in an H2/CO2 feed and is a highly effective activity promoter in an H2/CO feed. Interestingly, the presence of MnOx suppresses the methanol formation from CO2 (TOF of 0.7 ⋅ 10−3 s−1 at 533 K and 40 bar) and enhances the low‐temperature reverse water‐gas shift reaction (TOF of 5.7 ⋅ 10−3 s−1) with a selectivity to CO of 87 %C. Using time‐resolved XAS at high temperatures and pressures, we find significant absorption of CO2 to the MnO, which is reversed if CO2 is removed from the feed. This work reveals fundamental differences in the promoting effect of MnOx and ZnOx and contributes to a better understanding of the role of reducible oxide promoters in Cu‐based hydrogenation catalysts.
A Stable Alkylated Cobalt Catalyst for Photocatalytic H2 Generation in Liposomes
Authors: Klein David M. , Passerini Leonardo , Huber Martina , Bonnet Sylvestre
Published: July 2022

Photocatalytic proton reduction is a promising way to produce dihydrogen (H2) in a clean and sustainable manner, and mimicking nature by immobilising proton reduction catalysts and photosensitisers on liposomes is an attractive approach for biomimetic solar fuel production in aqueous solvents. Current photocatalytic proton reduction systems on liposomes are, however, limited by the stability of the catalyst. To overcome this problem, a new alkylated cobalt(II) polypyridyl complex (CoC12) was synthesised and immobilised on the lipid bilayer of liposomes, and its performance was studied in a photocatalytic system containing an alkylated ruthenium photosensitiser (RuC12) and a 1 : 1 mixture of sodium ascorbate and tris‐2‐carboxyethylphosphine hydrochloride as sacrificial electron donors. Several parameters (concentration of CoC12 and RuC12, pH, membrane composition) were changed to optimise the turnover number for H2 production. Overall, CoC12 was found to be photostable and the optimised turnover number (161) was limited only by the decomposition of the ruthenium‐based photosensitiser.