bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of climate change on the distribution and predicted habitat suitability of two fruit bats (Rousettus aegyptiacus and Epomophorus labiatus) in Ethiopia: Implications for conservation
Authors: Ahmed Ahmed Seid , Bekele Afework , Kasso Mohammed , Atickem Anagaw
Published: September 2023

Fruit bats serve as crucial bioindicators, seed dispersers, pollinators, and contributors to food security within ecosystems. However, their population and distribution were threatened by climate change and anthropogenic pressures. Understanding the impacts of these pressures through mapping distribution and habitat suitability is crucial for identifying high‐priority areas and implementing effective conservation and management plans. We predicted the distribution and extent of habitat suitability for Rousettus aegyptiacus and Epomophorus labiatus under climate change scenarios using average predictions from four different algorithms to produce an ensemble model. Seasonal precipitation, population index, land‐use land cover, vegetation, and the mean temperature of the driest quarter majorly contributed to the predicted habitat suitability for both species. The current predicted sizes of suitable habitats for R. aegyptiacus and E. labiatus were varied, on average 60,271.4 and 85,176.1 km2, respectively. The change in species range size for R. aegyptiacus showed gains in suitable areas of 24.4% and 22.8% in 2050 and 2070, respectively. However, for E. labiatus, suitable areas decreased by 0.95% and 2% in 2050 and 2070, respectively. The range size change of suitable areas between 2050 and 2070 for R. aegyptiacus and E. labiatus shows losses of 1.5% and 1.2%, respectively. The predicted maps indicate that the midlands and highlands of southern and eastern Ethiopia harbor highly suitable areas for both species. In contrast, the areas in the northern and central highlands are fragmented. The current model findings show that climate change and anthropogenic pressures have notable impacts on the geographic ranges of two species. Moreover, the predicted suitable habitats for both species are found both within and outside of their historical ranges, which has important implications for conservation efforts. Our ensemble predictions are vital for identifying high‐priority areas for fruit bat species conservation efforts and management to mitigate climate change and anthropogenic pressures.
Sap flux and stable isotopes of water show contrasting tree water uptake strategies in two co‐occurring tropical rainforest tree species
Authors: Sohel Md. Shawkat I. , Herbohn John L. , Zhao Ying , McDonnell Jeffrey J.
Published: September 2023

The short‐term dynamics of tree water use strategies for neighbouring co‐occurring species are poorly understood. Here, we quantify the high frequency changes in water sources and sap flux patterns of two commonly co‐occurring tropical rainforest tree species: Dendrocnide photinophylla (Kunth; Chew) and Argyrodendron peralatum (F.M. Bailey; Edlin ex J.H. Boas). A combination of continuous sap flux measurements and hourly sampling of xylem water stable isotope composition (δD and δ18O) were used to observe water use strategies during a 24‐h transpiration cycle. Sap flux ranged between 2.82 and 28.50 L day−1, with A. peralatum recording a 67% higher rate than D. photinophylla. For both tree species, sap flux increased with tree size and diurnal sap flux increase resulted in more isotopically enriched xylem water. A Bayesian Mixing Model analysis, which used sampled soil water isotopic composition from five soil depths ranging from of 0 to 1 m, revealed that D. photinophylla primarily used water from very shallow depth or soil surface layer (2–60 cm), while A. peralatum sourced its water mostly from deeper layers (60–100 cm). We propose that these differences in species' water consumption patterns are related to plant water storage capacity and wood anatomical features. This research demonstrates that combining xylem isotope composition and sap flux measurements can help reveal species‐specific water use strategies, which can be beneficial for improved process understanding in ecohydrological modelling.
Protonation Behavior of a Tetrahydrido Molybdenum(IV) Complex with Organic and Inorganic Acids
Authors: Queyriaux Nicolas , Durvin Nina , Leon Daniel , Boegli Marie‐Christine , Vendier Laure , Simonneau Antoine
Published: September 2023

The reaction of [MoH4(depe)2] (1) (depe=1,2‐bis(diethylphosphino)ethane) with different proton sources (HPtBu3+, C6H5COOH, C6F5COOH, H2SO4) was investigated. Whereas complete conversion of 1 into its protonated form is observed in the presence of the phosphonium salt, [MoH5(depe)2]+ only transiently forms upon treatment with the other acids. Further reactivity of the pentahydride complex is indeed noticed with the conjugated base, typically resulting in the formation of neutral (C6F5COOH, H2SO4) or cationic (PhCOOH) molybdenum dihydride complexes. The compounds were characterized by NMR spectroscopy and X‐ray crystallographic studies were performed when suitable crystals were obtained.
Isolation of a Dodecanuclear Polyoxo Cluster {Nb12O21} Showing a Rare Case of Five‐fold Coordinated Niobium(V) Centers with a Square Pyramidal Geometry
Authors: Andriotou Despoina , Henry Natacha , Duval Sylvain , Volkringer Christophe , Shepard William E. , Pourpoint Frédérique , Loiseau Thierry
Published: September 2023

The reactivity of the complexing anthracene‐9‐carboxylate ligand has been investigated with a niobium(IV) tetrachloride precursor (NbCl4 ⋅ 2THF) in isopropanol solvent. This resulted in the crystallization of a molecular assembly containing two distinct {Nb12O21} cores surrounded by multiple isopropanolate and anthracenoate ligands. The compound is formulated [Nb12((μ3‐O)3(μ‐O)18(C15H9O2)8(OiPr)10] ⋅ [Nb12(μ3‐O)2(μ‐O)19(C15H9O2)8(OiPr)10] illustrating the two different dodecameric oxo‐clusters, for which the niobium(IV) precursor was oxidized in the niobium(V) state during the reactional process. The two distinct {Nb12O21} units mainly differs by the environment of the niobium centers, which exhibits unexpected five‐fold coordination (square pyramid) for some of them, together with the classical six‐fold coordination (octahedron) as usually found for niobium(V). In the crystallization process, the. IR spectroscopy was used to analyze the esterification reaction occurring between the anthracene acid an isopropanolate ligands responsible of the production of water used in the oxo‐condensation of the niobium centers. 93Nb Solid state NMR was tentatively used to assess the occurrence of the different niobium environments.
Diastereoselective Dearomatization of Chalcone‐Based Quinolinium Salts to Assemble Bridged Quinobenzazepine Polycycles
Authors: Luo Chengxiang , Li Chaoyang , Zhang Lijie , Liu Xiongli , Cheng Pengfei , Wang Qilin
Published: September 2023

Quinobenzazepines are useful in medicinal chemistry, but their synthesis is very challenging. Herein, we designed and synthesized a range of multi‐functional chalcone‐based quinolinium salts; their synthetic application in the rapid and straightforward construction of quinobenzazepines was successfully explored. A wide range of oxa‐bridged quinobenzazepine polycycles were afforded serendipitously through a dearomative cascade reaction of our newly developed quinolinium salts and acetylacetone. This synthetic strategy features high bond‐ and ring‐forming efficiency and complete regio‐ and diastereoselective control.
Academic performance of engineering students: A predictive validity study of first‐year GPA and final‐year CGPA
Authors: Nurudeen Abdulhakeem Hassan , Fakhrou Abdulnaser , Lawal Nuruddeen , Ghareeb Sara
Published: September 2023

Students' academic achievement is regarded as the scholastic standing of students at the end of a given study period that is expressed in terms of grades. This study focused on students' first‐year GPA as a predictor of final‐year CGPA and the relationship between demographic attributes of the students to academic achievement. An ex‐post factor research approach was adopted, and Pearson's correlation and Regression Analysis were fitted with the data using Minitab software. The results of the study highlighted that first‐year GPA had a strong positive relationship with final‐year CGPA which is an indication that first‐year GPA greatly influences final‐year CGPA meanwhile, demographic characteristics have no significant correlation with students' final‐year CGPA. Finally, the correlations drawn from this study indicated that first‐year GPA had a strong positive relationship with final‐year CGPA. Therefore, the students should be properly guided, University administrators, Faculty members, policy‐makers and other stakeholders should effectively develop a monitoring blueprint for students' academic progress as poor performance has severe consequences on students, teachers should inculcate effective learning culture among students, while government and its supervisory agencies should provide adequate teaching and learning resources, create enabling learning environment for effective service delivery that focuses on improving students' performance in Engineering.
A Comprehensive Model for Assessing Service‐Learning and Community‐University Partnerships
Authors: Holland Barbara A.
Published: September 2023

A global approach to assessing service‐learning initiatives provides data to demonstrate that learning is taking place and to refine these initiatives so that they can be even more successful in the future.
Changing Practices and New Frontiers
Authors: Katz Richard N.
Published: September 2023

Higher education administrators will need leadership skills appropriate to frequently disruptive but newly empowering technologies.
From Consensus Standards to Evidence of Claims: Assessment and Accreditation in the Case of Teacher Education
Authors: Murray Frank Brush
Published: September 2023

To what extent should accreditation focus on the processes of assessing student learning outcomes, and to what extent should it primarily be concerned with the levels of student attainment within the institution or program under review? There is a need to evaluate the purposes of procedural and substantive standards and the claims they make about graduates' competence.
qRT‐PCR analysis of CEACAM5, KLK6, SLC35D3, MUC2 and POSTN in colon cancer lymph nodes—An improved method for assessment of tumor stage and prognosis
Authors: Lindmark Gudrun , Olsson Lina , Sitohy Basel , Israelsson Anne , Blomqvist Joel , Kero Sara , Roshdy Tamer , Söderholm Mattias , Turi Annamaria , Isaksson Jessica , Sakari Thorbjörn , Dooper Michiel , Dafnis George , Forsberg Pehr , Skovsted Susanne , Walldén Maria , Kung Chih‐Han , Rutegård Martin , Nordmyr Johanna , Muhrbeck Måns , Hammarström Sten , Hammarström Marie‐Louise
Published: September 2023

One fourth of colorectal cancer patients having curative surgery will relapse of which the majority will die. Lymph node (LN) metastasis is the single most important prognostic factor and a key factor when deciding on postoperative treatment. Presently, LN metastases are identified by histopathological examination, a subjective method analyzing only a small LN volume and giving no information on tumor aggressiveness. To better identify patients at risk of relapse we constructed a qRT‐PCR test, ColoNode, that determines levels of CEACAM5, KLK6, SLC35D3, MUC2 and POSTN mRNAs. Combined these biomarkers estimate the tumor cell load and aggressiveness allocating patients to risk categories with low (0, −1), medium (1), high (2) and very high (3) risk of recurrence. Here we present result of a prospective, national multicenter study including 196 colon cancer patients from 8 hospitals. On average, 21 LNs/patient, totally 4698 LNs, were examined by both histopathology and ColoNode. At 3‐year follow‐up, 36 patients had died from colon cancer or lived with recurrence. ColoNode identified all patients that were identified by histopathology and in addition 9 patients who were undetected by histopathology. Thus, 25% of the patients who recurred were identified by ColoNode only. Multivariate Cox regression analysis proved ColoNode (1, 2, 3 vs 0, −1) as a highly significant risk factor with HR 4.24 [95% confidence interval, 1.42‐12.69, P = .01], while pTN‐stage (III vs I/II) lost its univariate significance. In conclusion, ColoNode surpassed histopathology by identifying a significantly larger number of patients with future relapse and will be a valuable tool for decisions on postoperative treatment.
Application of a skin and liver Chip2 microphysiological model to investigate the route‐dependent toxicokinetics and toxicodynamics of consumer‐relevant doses of genistein
Authors: Tao Thi‐Phuong , Brandmair Katrin , Gerlach Silke , Przibilla Julia , Schepky Andreas , Marx Uwe , Hewitt Nicola J. , Maschmeyer Ilka , Kühnl Jochen
Published: September 2023

The HUMMIC skin–liver Chip2 microphysiological system using EpiDerm™ and HepaRG and stellate liver spheroids was used to evaluate the route‐specific metabolism and toxicodynamic effects of genistein. Human‐relevant exposure levels were compared: 60 nM representing the plasma concentration expected after topical application of a cosmetic product and 1 μM representing measured plasma concentrations after ingesting soya products. Genistein was applied as single and repeated topical and/or systemic doses. The kinetics of genistein and its metabolites were measured over 5 days. Toxicodynamic effects were measured using transcriptional analyses of skin and liver organoids harvested on Days 2 and 5. Route‐specific differences in genistein's bioavailability were observed, with first‐pass metabolism (sulfation) occurring in the skin after topical application. Only repeated application of 1 μM, resembling daily oral intake of soya products, induced statistically significant changes in gene expression in liver organoids only. This was concomitant with a much higher systemic concentration of genistein which was not reached in any other dosing scenario. This suggests that single or low doses of genistein are rapidly metabolised which limits its toxicodynamic effects on the liver and skin. Therefore, by facilitating longer and/or repeated applications, the Chip2 can support safety assessments by linking relevant gene modulation with systemically available parent or metabolite(s). The rate of metabolism was in accordance with the short half‐life observed in in vivo in humans, thus supporting the relevance of the findings. In conclusion, the skin–liver Chip2 provides route‐specific information on metabolic fate and toxicodynamics that may be relevant to safety assessment.
Trace detection of canine distemper virus based on Michelson‐interferometer sensing probe
Authors: Zhang Xinyu , Hou Xiangyu , Feng Wenlin
Published: September 2023

A single‐mode‐fiber (SMF)‐multimode‐fiber (MMF)‐tri‐core‐fiber (TCF) Michelson probe structure is proposed for trace detection of canine distemper virus (CDV). One end of the TCF is cut flat and fused with the multimode fiber, and the other end is coated with a silver film to enhance the reflection, and an optic‐fiber sensing probe with SMF‐MMF‐TCF structure is obtained. The (PDDA/PSS)3 multilayer film is modified on the surface of the fiber by layer‐by‐layer self‐assembly method as a polyelectrolyte binder to immobilize CDV antibodies to form a (PDDA/PSS)3/CDV antibody composite membrane for specific detection of CDV antigens. The response‐recovery test of the sensor is performed to verify its repeatability. The detection limit, the sensitivity, and the linear fitting degree for CDV antigen are 0.1236 pg/mL, 1.1776 dB/(pg/mL), and 0.9899, respectively. At the same time, the stability, selectivity, and clinical samples of the sensors were also verified.
N‐acetyl‐l‐tryptophan (NAT) ameliorates radiation‐induced cell death in murine macrophages J774A.1 via regulating redox homeostasis and mitochondrial dysfunction
Authors: Singh Darshana , Malhotra Poonam , Agarwal Prerna , Kumar Raj
Published: September 2023

Ionizing radiation interacts with the immune system and induces molecular damage in the cellular milieu by generating reactive oxygen species (ROS) leading to cell death. The present study was performed to investigate the protective efficacy of N‐acetyl‐L‐tryptophan (NAT) against gamma‐radiation‐induced cell death in murine macrophage J774A.1 cells. The radioprotective efficacy of NAT was evaluated in terms of cell survivability, effect on antioxidant enzyme activity, and free radicals inhibition. Radioprotective efficacy of NAT pretreatment to irradiated cells was assessed via cell cycle progression, mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) perturbation, and apoptosis regulation using flow cytometry. Results of the study demonstrated significant radioprotective efficacy (>80%) of NAT in irradiated cells as estimated by sulforhodamine B (SRB), MTT, and clonogenic assay. Significant (p < 0.001) reduction in ROS, xanthine oxidase, and mitochondrial superoxide levels along with increment in catalase, glutathione‐s‐transferase, glutathione, and ATPase activities in NAT pretreated plus irradiated cells was observed as compared to the gamma‐irradiated cells. Further, significant (p < 0.001) stabilization of MMP and reduction in apoptosis was also observed in NAT pretreated plus irradiated cells as compared to irradiated cells that not pretreated with NAT. The current study demonstrates that NAT pretreatment to irradiated cells protects against gamma radiation‐induced cell death by reducing oxidative stress, stabilizing MMP, and inhibiting apoptosis. These observations conclusively highlight the potential of developing NAT as a prospective radioprotective agent upon further validation using in‐depth preclinical assessment in cellular and animal models.
The upregulation of miR‐3945 in CD14+ monocytes is the risk factor for cardiovascular disease
Authors: Xu Wei , Liu Tingting , Liu Xin
Published: September 2023

Patients with type 1 diabetes (T1DM) show an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. Bioinformatics analysis revealed that it is characterized by changes in the function of CD14+ mononuclear macrophages. The current study was to explore the potential relationship between the miR‐3845/TRIM35/PKM2 and abnormal polarization of mononuclear macrophages. Using bioinformatics to analyze the gene expression of mononuclear macrophages. The polarization of macrophages was analyzed using flow cytometry, and the expression changes of TRIM35/PKM2 were analyzed using Western blot, luciferase activity assay, and co‐immunoprecipitation. Database analysis showed that T1DM patients showed an abnormal increase of miR‐3945 in CD14+ monocyte macrophages. miR‐3945 targets TRIM35 to release PKM2 to cytometry, and PKM2 causes M1‐like polarization of mononuclear macrophages. Database analysis showed that miR‐3945 was abnormally upregulated in CD14+ monocytes in T1DM patients. miR‐3945 upregulates the expression of PKM2 in the cytoplasm by targeting TRIM35, which leads to M1 polarization of macrophages.
Clinician perspectives on technology‐enhanced in vivo exposures during prolonged exposure therapy for PTSD
Authors: Brown Delisa G. , Jarnecke Amber M. , Saraiya Tanya C. , Santa‐Ana Elizabeth , Acierno Ron , Reese Mclain , Adams Robert , Harley William , Back Sudie E.
Published: September 2023

Objective

To investigate clinicians' perceptions regarding the use of mobile technology tools during prolonged exposure (PE) therapy to allow for monitoring and enhancing in‐vivo exposures (IVEs).

Methods

Clinicians with training in PE therapy (N = 32; average of 9 years of practice) completed surveys asking about their perspectives on the utility of virtually attending IVEs with patients while simultaneously having access to real‐time subjective and physiological data (i.e., heart rate, galvanic skin conductance) to guide exposure exercises and assure optimal stimulus engagement.

Results

Findings showed clinicians to have a favorable view of applying technology devices and systems to enhance IVEs of PE therapy. Most clinicians (93.8%) believed that real‐time monitoring of IVEs—particularly monitoring patients' subjective distress and completion of and duration of time in the IVE—would be useful and significantly enhance PE therapy.

Conclusion

The positive perceptions toward integrating technology into IVEs in this study have important implications for the development and implementation of technology‐enhanced PE therapy. A mobile technology system that incorporates real‐time indicators of engagement (i.e., both subjective and physiological) during IVEs and allows clinicians to review recordings of, or virtually accompany, patients during IVEs has the potential to innovate and transform PE and other exposure‐based treatments. Clinicians also believed that technology‐enhanced IVEs may help reduce early termination from PE.
Pig slurry organic matter transformation and methanogenesis at ambient storage temperatures
Authors: Dalby Frederik Rask , Ambrose Herald Wilson , Poulsen Jan Struckmann , Nielsen Jeppe Lund , Adamsen Anders Peter S.
Published: September 2023

Manure management is a significant source of global methane emissions, and there is an increased interest in understanding and predicting emissions. The hydrolysis rate of manure organic matter is critical for understanding and predicting methane emissions. We estimated hydrolysis rate constants of crude protein, fibers, and lipids and used the Arrhenius equation to describe its dependency on temperature. Simultaneously, measurements of methane emission, 13/12C isotope ratios, and methanogen community were conducted. This was achieved by incubating fresh pig manure without inoculum at 10°C, 15°C, 20°C, and 25°C for 85 days in a lab‐scale setup. Hydrolysis of hemicellulose and cellulose increased more with temperature than crude protein, but still, hydrolysis rate of crude protein was highest at all temperatures. Results suggested that crude protein consisted of multiple substrate groups displaying large differences in degradability. Lipids and lignin were not hydrolyzed during incubations. Cumulative methane emissions were 7.13 ± 2.69, 24.6 ± 8.00, 66.7 ± 4.8, and 105.7 ± 7.14 gCH4 kgVS−1 at 10°C, 15°C, 20°C, and 25°C, respectively, and methanogenic community shifted from Methanosphaera toward Methanocorpusculum over time and more quickly at higher temperatures. This study provides important parameter estimates and dependencies on temperature, which is important in mechanistic methane emission models. Further work should focus on characterizing quickly degradable substrate pools in the manure organic matter as they might be the main carbon source of methane emission from manure management.
Tracking Age‐Related Topological Changes in Individual Brain Morphological Networks Across the Human Lifespan
Authors: Li Jingming , Wang Qian , Li Ke , Yao Li , Guo Xiaojuan
Published: September 2023

Background

Many studies have shown topological alterations associated with age in population‐based brain morphological networks. However, it is not clear how individual brain morphological networks change with age across the lifespan.

Purpose

To characterize age‐related topological changes in individual networks and investigate the relationships between individual‐ and group‐based brain networks at the nodal, modular, and connectome levels.

Study Type

Retrospective analysis.

Population

One hundred seventy‐nine healthy subjects (108 males and 71 females), aged 6–85 years with a median age of 32 years and an inter‐quartile range (IQR) of 26 years.

Field Strength/Sequence

T1‐weighted images using the magnetization‐prepared rapid gradient echo (MPRAGE) sequences.

Assessment

Two nodal‐level indicators (nodal similarity and node matching), five modular‐level indicators (modularity, intra/inter‐module similarity, adjusted mutual information [AMI], and module variation), and five connectome‐level indicators (global efficiency, characteristic path length, clustering coefficient, local efficiency, and individual contribution) were calculated in brain morphological networks. Regression models for different indicators were built to examine their lifetime trajectory patterns.

Statistical Tests

Single‐sample t‐test, Mantel's test, Pearson correlation coefficient. A P value <0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results

Among 68 nodes, 34 nodes showed significant age‐related patterns (all P < 0.05, FDR‐corrected) in nodal similarity, including linear decline and quadratic trends. The lifespan trajectory of the connectome‐level topological attributes of the individual networks presented U‐shaped or inverse U‐shaped trends with age. Between the individual‐ and group‐based brain networks, the average nodal similarity was 0.67 and the average AMI of module partitions was 0.57.

Data Conclusion

The lifespan trajectories of the nodal similarity mainly followed linear decreasing and nonlinear trends, whereas the modularity and the global topological attributes exhibited nonlinear patterns. There was a high degree of consistency at both nodal similarity and modular division between the individual and group networks.

Evidence Level

1

Technical Efficacy

Stage 1
Antibacterial and antibiofilm effects of green synthesized selenium nanoparticles on clinical Klebsiella pneumoniae isolates
Authors: Maleki Ali Reza , Tabatabaei Robab Rafiei , Aminian Fatemeh , Ranjbar Sina , Ashrafi Fatemeh , Ranjbar Reza
Published: September 2023

Nanotechnology covers many disciplines, including the biological sciences. In this study, selenium nanoparticles (Se‐NPs) were synthesized using Artemisia annua extract and investigated against clinical strains of klebsiella pneumoniae (K. pneumoniae) for their anti‐biofilm effects. In this experimental study, from May 1998 to September 1998, 50 clinical samples of blood, urine, and sputum were collected, and K. pneumoniae strains were isolated using microbiological methods. Subsequently, the antibacterial effects of Se‐NPs at concentrations of 12‐25‐50‐100/5‐6/3‐25/125 μg/mL were studied. Finally, biofilm‐producing strains were isolated, and the expression of mrkA biofilm gene was studied in real‐time strains treated with Se‐NPs using real‐time polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Out of 50 clinical samples, 20 strains of K. pneumoniae were isolated. Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) results of Se‐NPs showed that Se‐NPs were capable of significant cell killing. Real‐time PCR results also showed that mrkA gene expression was significantly reduced in strains treated with Se‐NPs. According to this study, Se‐NPs could reduce bacterial growth and biofilm formation, therefore, could be considered a candidate drug in the medical application for infections caused by K. pneumoniae.
Comparison of soil phosphorus extraction methods regarding their suitability for organic farming systems
Authors: Wanke Daniel J. , Heichel Jasmin , Zikeli Sabine , Müller Torsten , Hartmann Tobias Edward
Published: September 2023

Background

Organic farmers frequently report sufficient yield levels despite low or even very low soil phosphorous (P) contents questioning the applicability of widely used laboratory methods for soil P testing for organic farming.

Aims

The aim of this study was to compare the validity of a broad range of different soil extraction methods on soils under organic management from South West Germany and to test the correlation of the measured soil P concentration with plant offtake.

Methods

Twenty‐two soil samples of eight different organic farms were extracted with different solutions: (1) water, (2) CAL, (3) Olsen, (4) Mehlich 3, (5) Bray P1, (6) Bray P2, (7) NaOH+Na2EDTA, and (8) total P. The results were then correlated with above ground plant P.

Results

Spearman's rank correlation coefficient (rs) of correlations between above ground plant P and extractable soil P (Water‐P, CAL‐P, and Olsen‐P [+active charcoal {+AC}]) determined with ICP‐OES were strong (0.94, 0.90, and 0.93, respectively). Among the tested methods, above ground plant P showed a strong correlation with CAL‐P as detected by ICP‐OES (rs = 0.90) and colorimetry (rs = 0.91). The comparison of CAL‐P data provided by farmers and CAL‐P analyzed during this research showed discrepancies between the results.

Conclusions

The results of this study indicate that the CAL method can be used in organic farming despite a low extraction of organic P (Porg). Furthermore, it is recommended for farmers to take soil samples for analyses regularly and interpret changes in P in the long‐term instead of interpreting individual samples.
Development of normalized quantitative measures of lumbar disc degeneration
Authors: King Samuel , Magnussen John , Elliott James , Hancock Mark Jonathan
Published: September 2023

Background

Lumbar disc degeneration (DD) is widely regarded as a likely contributor to low back pain (LBP), but the association between DD and LBP is relatively weak. No known studies have normalized quantitative measures of DD severity relative to multiple variables such as age, height, and disc level. This study developed normalized quantitative measures (z‐scores) of disc signal intensity (DSI) and disc height (DH) to rate relative severity of DD.

Methods

Raw (unnormalized) quantitative measures of DSI and DH alongside potential normalization variables were acquired from MRI scans and clinical data of 76 patients. The associations between the raw quantitative measures and potential normalization variables were investigated to develop the normalized quantitative measures (z‐scores) of DSI and DH. Construct validity was assessed by comparing the normalized measures to an experienced radiologist's subjective measures of relative severity of DSI and DH loss.

Results

CSF signal intensity, age, and disc level were significantly associated with raw DSI (R2 = 0.06, 0.25, and 0.09, respectively). Lumbar height and disc level were significantly associated with raw DH (R2 = 0.13 and 0.31). Normalizing DSI and DH by these variables resulted in stronger relationships (R2 = 0.39 and 0.37) than raw DSI and DH (R2 = 0.24 and 0.31) with the radiologist's subjective measures. Normalized DSI and DH were both normally distributed (p = 0.32 and 0.12).

Conclusions

Construct validity and the distributions suggested that normalized quantitative measures of DSI and DH are better than existing measures of DSI and DH at rating relative DD severity. Determining whether normalized quantitative measures are more predictive of clinical outcomes is important future research.
The Serpentine Sign: A Reliable Endoscopic and Radiographic Finding in Empty Nose Syndrome
Authors: Dholakia Sachi S. , Grimm David , Daum Rachel , Bravo Dawn T. , Salvi Nicole , Zarabanda David , Overdevest Jonathan B. , Thamboo Andrew , Nakayama Tsuguhisa , Nayak Jayakar V.
Published: September 2023

Objective

Empty nose syndrome (ENS) is a relatively uncommon disease that greatly impacts the quality of life and presents diagnostic challenges. We sought to identify objective clinical findings unique to patients with ENS, and in doing so identified compensatory mucosal hypertrophy in an alternating, undulating swelling on endoscopy and coronal computerized tomography (CT) that we have termed the “Serpentine Sign.” Here, we investigated whether this radiographic finding is a reliable manifestation in ENS patients.

Methods

Retrospective review was undertaken to identify ENS patients with past turbinoplasty, an ENS6Q score of at least 11/30, and symptomatic improvement with the cotton placement test. Control patients without complaints of ENS symptoms (ENS6Q < 11) were identified for comparison. ENS and control patients had coronal CT imaging available to evaluate for the Serpentine Sign, as well as ENS6Q scores, and histologic analysis of nasal tissue.

Results

34 ENS and 74 control patients were evaluated for the presence of the Serpentine Sign. Of the 34 patients with ENS, 18 exhibited this radiographic finding on CT imaging (52.9%) compared to 0 of the 74 control patients (p < 0.0001). Further analysis demonstrated that ENS patients with the Serpentine Sign had lower median scores on ENS6Q than ENS patients without (17.5 vs. 22, p = 0.033). Histology revealed disorganized subepithelium rich in seromucinous glands similar to the nasal septum swell body.

Conclusion

The “Serpentine Sign” is a unique presentation of hypertrophic change to the nasal septum soft tissue that is specific to ENS patients and may serve as a reliable radiographic and endoscopic finding in diagnosis.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 134:1089–1095, 2024
Risk factors for postoperative vocal fold fibrosis following microlaryngeal surgery
Authors: Wu Po‐Hsuan , Wang Chi‐Te
Published: September 2023

Objective

To analyze the risk factors for postoperative vocal fold fibrosis (PVF) in patients undergoing microlaryngeal surgery (MLS) for benign vocal fold lesions.

Study Design

Retrospective study.

Methods

We retrospectively included patients who had undergone MLS for vocal polyps, nodules, mucus retention cysts, fibrous mass, or Reinke's edema. Data on the patients' clinicodemographic characteristics and intraoperative findings were obtained by reviewing their clinical records. PVF was defined by the presence of an adynamic segment of membranous vocal folds or a marked reduction in mucosal wave amplitude on post‐MLS (6 weeks) videolaryngostroboscopy. The risk factors for PVF were analyzed through univariate and multivariate logistic regressions.

Results

This study included 89 patients, of whom 16 (18%) were given a diagnosis of PVF. A significantly increased incidence of PVF was noted in patients with fibrous mass (p < .01). The univariate analysis indicated that lesion attachment to the vocal ligament, prolonged surgical duration (>60 min), and symptom duration (>12 months) were significantly correlated with PVF (p < .05). The multivariate analysis confirmed that diagnosis of fibrous masses, lesion attachment to the vocal ligament and symptom duration are significant risk factors for PVF.

Conclusion

PVF is more common in patients with fibrous masses. Lesions attachment to the vocal ligament and prolonged symptom duration appear to be other significant risk factors for PVF.

Level of Evidence

4
Decoupled growth and grazing rates of diatoms and green algae drive increased phytoplankton productivity on HNLC sub‐Antarctic plateaux
Authors: Gutiérrez‐Rodríguez Andres , Latasa Mikel , Safi Karl , Pinkerton Matthew H. , Nodder Scott D.
Published: September 2023

The combination of iron limitation and microzooplankton grazing controls phytoplankton productivity and taxonomic composition in high‐nutrient low‐chlorophyll (HNLC) regions. While increased productivity and diatom contribution triggered by iron enrichment support this view, direct measurements of underpinning group‐specific growth and grazing rates are scarce for the Southern Ocean. To assess these rates, we conducted dilution experiments coupled to high‐performance liquid chromatography and flow‐cytometry in sub‐Antarctic waters on and off Campbell Plateau, southeast of Aotearoa‐New Zealand. Off the plateau, growth and grazing were closely balanced for all groups despite a two‐fold difference between slow‐ and fast‐growing groups. On Campbell Plateau, where HNLC conditions were alleviated, the balance was disrupted, mainly by the preferential growth of diatoms and green algae, which was stimulated beyond grazing. Our results expand the recognized ability of diatoms to escape grazing control to picoplanktonic green algae that also avoid grazing and contribute significantly to phytoplankton productivity and biomass accumulation.
Time‐Multiplexed Control of Programmable Silicon Photonic Circuits Enabled by Monolithic CMOS Electronics
Authors: Zanetto Francesco , Toso Fabio , Grimaldi Vittorio , Petrini Matteo , Martinez Andres , Milanizadeh Maziyar , Perino Alessandro , Morichetti Francesco , Melloni Andrea , Ferrari Giorgio , Sampietro Marco
Published: September 2023

Programmable photonic circuits require an electronic control layer to configure and stabilize the optical functionality at run‐time. Such control action is normally implemented by supervising the status of the circuit with integrated light monitors and by providing feedback signals to integrated actuators. This paper demonstrates that the control action can be effectively performed with electrical signals that are time‐multiplexed directly on the photonic chip. To this aim, the necessary electronic functionalities are monolithically integrated in a conventional 220 nm silicon photonics platform with no changes to the standard fabrication process. By exploiting a non‐conventional structure to implement metal‐oxide–semiconductor field‐effect transistors, an electronic controller is co‐designed into a programmable photonic circuit to enable a time‐multiplexed readout of integrated photodetectors and sequential activation of thermal phase shifters with on‐chip electronic memory. The accuracy of the time‐multiplexed control, achieved on a time scale of less than 10 ms, is demonstrated by penalty‐free routing of 10 Gbit s−1 modulated signals. This approach can be straightforwardly applied to large‐scale photonic chips to reduce the number of required electrical input/output connections.
On‐Demand Subwavelength‐Scale Light Sculpting Using Nanometric Holograms
Authors: Zhang Xiliang , Hu Yanwen , Zhang Xin , Li Zhen , Chen Zhenqiang , Fu Shenhe
Published: September 2023

Spatially or temporally structured light has attracted considerable attention for its intriguing beam characteristics, which have found extensive applications in classical and quantum optics. Extending structured light from macroscale and microscale to nanometricscale brings more prospects both for fundamental and applied science. However, sculpting light at the subwavelength scale remains a challenge since its transverse structure is fragile in the nanometric scale. Here a novelholography for arbitrary light sculpting at the subwavelength scale is demonstrated. A wave phenomenon of diffractive focusing from an amplitude‐only nanometric (50‐nm‐thick) film is introduced, and use of the induced high‐spatial‐frequency waves as carriers to encode information of an object is considered. Using this technique, nanometric holograms are designed and fabricated for generating the well‐defined eigen modes including the zero‐order Bessel beam, vortex beam, vector beam, Airy beam, as well as an arbitrary light pattern, with feature sizes on the deep‐subwavelength scale. The broadband performance of the hologram is examined, and a white‐light nondiffracting beam at the deep‐subwavelength scale is realized. This demonstration paves a way toward on‐demand light sculpting at the nanometric scale, which may find applications such as optical super‐resolution imaging, nanoparticle manipulation, and precise measurements.
New bounds for numbers of primes in element orders of finite groups
Authors: Bellotti Chiara , Keller Thomas Michael , Trudgian Timothy S.
Published: September 2023

Let denote the maximal number of different primes that may occur in the order of a finite solvable group G, all elements of which have orders divisible by at most n distinct primes. We show that for all . As an application, we improve on a recent bound by Hung and Yang for arbitrary finite groups.
Augmented digital human vs. human agents in storytelling marketing: Exploratory electroencephalography and experimental studies
Authors: Sung Eunyoung (Christine) , Han Dai‐In Danny , Choi Yung Kyun , Gillespie Brian , Couperus Anja , Koppert Marc
Published: September 2023

As the fourth industrial revolution unfolds and the use of digital humans becomes more commonplace, understanding digital humans' potential to replace real human interaction or enhance it, particularly in storytelling marketing contexts, is becoming evermore important. To promote interaction and increase the entertainment value of technology‐enhanced storytelling marketing, brands have begun to explore the use of augmented digital humans as storytelling agents. In this article, we examine the effectiveness of leveraging advanced technologies and delivering messages via digital humans in storytelling advertisements. In Study 1, we investigate the effectiveness of narrative transportation on behavioral responses after exposure to an interactive augmented reality mobile advertisement with a digital human storyteller. In Study 2, we compare how consumers respond to augmented digital human versus real human storytelling advertisements after conducting an exploratory neurophysiological electroencephalography study. The findings show that both types of agents promote narrative transportation when the story fits the product well. Moreover, a digital human perceived as more human‐like elicits stronger positive consumer responses, suggesting an effective new approach to storytelling marketing.
Research online and purchase offline: The disruptive impact of consumers' online information on offline sales interaction
Authors: Li You , Geng Lixiao , Chang Yaping , Ning Peng
Published: September 2023

Retailers hire salespeople in physical stores to boost revenue by influencing consumer decision‐making. However, the Internet provides consumers with a variety of online product information before they enter the physical store, and this rich online information reduces their willingness to interact with offline salespeople. Using regulatory focus theory, we explore why well‐informed consumers avoid sales interactions and explore strategies for salespeople to mitigate this negative effect. Across three studies, we show that high consumer informedness induces a heightened prevention focus that causes consumers to avoid sales interactions to control the decision‐making process by themselves (Studies 1 and 2). This effect can be alleviated when salespeople provide consumers with currently available information rather than additional information (Study 3). This research contributes to the literature on consumer informedness, regulatory focus theory, and research on promotional information types and provides guidance for retailers' sales interactions.
Application of a catch multiple survey analysis for Atlantic horseshoe crab Limulus polyphemus in the Delaware Bay
Authors: Anstead Kristen A. , Sweka John A. , Barry Linda , Hallerman Eric M. , Smith David R. , Ameral Natalie , Schmidtke Michael , Wong Richard A.
Published: September 2023

Objective

This paper applies a catch multiple survey analysis (CMSA) to Atlantic horseshoe crabs Limulus polyphemus in the Delaware Bay to generate robust population estimates for harvest management. Currently, horseshoe crabs along the U.S. Atlantic coast are harvested as bait for other fisheries and collected for their blood, which is used in a biomedical industry. The Delaware Bay is home to the largest population of horseshoe crabs and is a significant stopover for shorebirds to rebuild energy by consuming horseshoe crab eggs prior to completing their northward migration. To address this interrelationship, the Adaptive Resource Management (ARM) Framework has been used since 2013 to ensure that horseshoe crab harvest within the region takes into account the forage needs of migratory birds. Since its inception, the ARM Framework has used a single trawl survey's swept area-based population estimates of horseshoe crab relative abundance and a theoretical population model developed primarily from literature-derived values. With more data collected in the region in recent years and other sources of mortality that can now be quantified, a catch survey model can provide horseshoe crab population estimates going forward.

Methods

A CMSA was used to estimate male and female horseshoe crab population size for 2003–2021 using all quantifiable sources of mortality and three fishery-independent indices of abundance.

Result

The CMSA results indicated that adult abundance of male and female horseshoe crabs was stable from 2003 to 2013 and then began to increase through 2017, a result that is consistent with stock rebuilding following a period of harvest restrictions as recommended by the ARM Framework. Population estimates were lower in recent years but remained above the levels estimated before implementation of the ARM Framework. In 2021, the CMSA estimated that there were over 6 million mature females and nearly 16 million mature male horseshoe crabs in the region.

Conclusion

The CMSA provides the best and most comprehensive population estimates of horseshoe crabs in Delaware Bay and will improve modeling efforts within the ARM Framework going forward.
Data-limited fishery assessment methods shed light on the exploitation history and population dynamics of Endangered Species Act-listed Yelloweye Rockfish in Puget Sound, Washington
Authors: Min Markus A. , Cope Jason , Lowry Dayv , Selleck James , Tonnes Daniel , Andrews Kelly , Pacunski Robert , Hennings Andrea , Scheuerell Mark D.
Published: September 2023

Objective

The distinct population segment (DPS) of Yelloweye Rockfish Sebastes ruberrimus inhabiting the Puget Sound/Georgia Basin was listed under the Endangered Species Act (ESA) in 2010, and a formal recovery plan for the DPS was published by National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Fisheries in 2017. In this recovery plan, the biological criteria for delisting or downlisting were specified as certain levels of spawning potential ratio (SPR), a commonly used metric of equilibrium stock status for commercially exploited fishes. Although this metric can be estimated from length compositions, the combination of length data with a catch history (which was not previously available for this DPS) improves our understanding of population dynamics over time and allows us to estimate a different measure of stock status, relative (to unfished) spawning stock biomass (SSB), rather than only SPR.

Methods

To estimate relative SSB and reconstruct the historical dynamics of this DPS, we reconstructed the catch history from fisheries records, collated length data from historical and contemporary hook-and-line surveys, and fitted a data-limited version of a statistical catch-at-age model.

Result

Despite a high level of uncertainty, we estimated that Yelloweye Rockfish in Puget Sound are above 25% of unfished biomass (a reference point detailed in the recovery criteria) under the assumption of deterministic recruitment, presenting the first direct estimates of Yelloweye Rockfish population status in Puget Sound.

Conclusion

However, as informed by recent genetic studies, the DPS boundaries of ESA-listed Yelloweye Rockfish extend from South Puget Sound to Queen Charlotte Strait in British Columbia. The Canadian portion of this population is managed separately and is currently estimated to be at 32% of unfished biomass (95% quantiles = 15%–68%). Thus, the disjunction between the biological boundaries of the population and the jurisdictional boundaries between Canada and the United States presents an additional source of uncertainty in assessing recovery that must be addressed to achieve DPS-wide recovery goals.
To overstate or not to overstate Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR): What does Bayes tell us about CSR decoupling and firm value?
Authors: Sayari Naz , Marcum Bill , Baliga Ram
Published: September 2023

This study examines the effect of corporate social responsibility (CSR) decoupling on firm value across firms that understate versus overstate CSR. We also analyze the moderating impact of a firm's regulatory environment on the relationship between CSR decoupling and firm value. Using longitudinal analysis across 20 developed countries for the period 2008–2016 and employing a Bayesian item response theory method to measure CSR performance, we find that overstating CSR increases firm value whereas understating CSR decreases firm value. Our results also show that firms that overstate their CSR saw a reduction in firm value when the regulatory environment is included as a moderator.