Yield Measurements Research Articles

Discrete coordination nanochains based on photoluminescent dyes reveal intrachain exciton migration dynamics

Elucidating exciton migration in polymer chains has been one of the major research goals in photophysics for over half a century. While great efforts have been made to understand picosecond phenomena by ultrafast spectroscopy, ambiguous molecular conformations and/or random polymer sequences have hindered the construction of an ideal exciton migration model. Here we present the creation of unique end-capped coordination nanochains and quantitative description of intrachain exciton migration therein. The nanochain features unique molecular architectures in discrete polynuclear complexes, with a linear and rigid structure, the defined number of metal nuclei, and charge neutrality. These features allow well-defined arrangement of emissive dye moieties, making the nanochain a sound platform for studying exciton dynamics. Readily accessible absorption spectroscopy, and photoluminescence lifetime and quantum yield measurements allow the construction of continuous-time Markov chains model, thereby estimating non-trivial exciton migration across the metal center.

Sputtering yield and induced contamination of Kapton, PEEK and PTFE under xenon ions bombardment

Abstract In this article, we present the results of sputtering yield measurements of Kapton, PEEK and PTFE due to xenon ions bombardment. We measured these yield using the weight loss technique, for energies ranging from \qtyrange[range-units = single]{350}{800}{\eV} and incidence angles from \qtyrange[range-units = single]{0}{75}{\degree}. Polymers sputtering yield dependence versus incidence angle appears to be much lower than what we usually observe on other materials (such as metals). Furthermore, PTFE exhibits a very high erosion rate, which is two orders of magnitude bigger than Kapton and PEEK one. We also performed collection measurements using a quartz crystal microbalance (QCM) apparatus. Such method provides differential sputtering yields data which are key pieces of information regarding satellites contamination issues. We also computed the total sputtering yields obtained by this second method, and it appeared that they were much smaller than the ones measured previously by weight loss, specially for PTFE. This suggests that erosion products may be of different types (atoms, molecules) which are not all able to stick on a facing surface.

Physicochemical characterization of sprouted cowpea starch by varieties

This current work explored the physicochemical characteristics of sprouted cowpea starch across different varieties. Specifically, cowpea varieties (IR48B, IT89KD-288, IT82D-716W, and TV32-36WS) were sprouted (steeping = 36 h; germinating = 72 h), then, milling to slurry, followed by starch extraction. Physicochemical characterization involved the measurements of starch yield, moisture, protein, pH, amylose, water absorption capacity, gelation, solubility index, bulk density and swelling power , and pasting attributes. Results showed sprouting significantly enhanced the protein, water absorption capacity, total titratable acidity, swelling power, solubility index, and emulsion capacity of cowpea starch. However, sprouting significantly reduced starch yield, pH, bulk density, gelation capacity, and amylose content. Comparative analysis revealed sprouted cowpea starch with superior pasting properties, including higher peak viscosity and setback viscosity, especially when compared to other starch sources. A direct correlation between amylose content and setback viscosity seemed apparent, although the quality of fit for sprouted cowpea starch suggested additional factors might have some influence on the pasting behaviour. Sprouted cowpea starch appears functionally positioned as a nutritional and versatile alternative in food formulations particularly for health-conscious consumers.

Constraining the Acetone Photolysis Quantum Yield: Current Insights and Atmospheric Chemistry Implications

AbstractAcetone photolysis is a potentially important source of hydroperoxyl and hydroxyl radicals (HOx) to the upper troposphere. The extent to which acetone photolysis is a significant source of HOx in the upper troposphere is unclear in part because of scarce measurements of the acetone photolysis quantum yield (Φacetone) in the actinic region (i.e., λ > 300 nm). Past measurements of the Φacetone have derived temperature‐ and pressure‐dependent parameterizations that lead to significantly different conclusions about the importance of acetone to HOx formation in the upper troposphere. Here, we focus on previously published data to derive the recommended Φacetone for atmospheric chemical modeling. Using Stern‐Volmer analyses, we determine temperature‐ and pressure‐dependent Φacetone using updated measurements of fundamental acetone photolysis parameters. We also use simulations of the Φacetone produced from recent photophysical modeling to derive temperature‐ and pressure‐dependent parameterizations of the Φacetone. In contrast to the current Φacetone parameterization used in atmospheric chemical modeling, our parameterization reflects a predicted nonzero Φacetone in the wavelength region above 320 nm. Despite the increased Φacetone values in the higher wavelength region of the acetone photolysis action spectrum, the modeled effect on HOx production is not significantly different from HOx produced using the current recommended Φacetone parameterization. Uncertainties in the acetone photolysis mechanism remain; thus, more direct temperature‐ and pressure‐dependent measurements of Φacetone are warranted.

Dividend policies and managerial ability beyond financial constraints: insights from China

Managerial ability plays a key role in the development and performance of a business and, implicitly, in corporate financing decisions and dividend opportunities. This study builds on the contradictory literature arguments related to dividend policies and analyses the influence of managerial ability and financial constraints on cash dividends, considering a comprehensive perspective of dividends expressed as both accounting and market measures of payout, yield, and growth in the context of the Chinese financial market. Alternative empirical estimations on a sample of 18,011 firm-year data of Chinese A-share listed companies between 2010 and 2019 indicate that managerial ability has a positive influence over cash dividend distribution, enhancing shareholders’ returns and the attractiveness of the companies on the financial market. The effect of managerial ability is challenged by the financial constraints’ conditions and state ownership. These results contribute to corporate and regulatory dividend policies, illustrating the importance of understanding the role of managerial influence on dividend decisions.

Optimization of irrigation and nitrogen for sustainable rice cultivation: emissions and yield impact

Rice cultivation is integral to global food security and exports but contributes significantly to greenhouse gas emissions, mainly methane (CH?) and nitrous oxide (N?O), exacerbating climate change. This study evaluates the effects of three irrigation practices-conventional flooding (CF), alternate wetting and drying (AWD) and the modified system of rice intensification (MSRI) on CH? and N?O emissions and rice yields over two seasons (Kar 2022 and Samba 2023). A split-plot design with five nitrogen management strategies was employed, with weekly gas sampling and yield measurements at harvest. Among the treatments, the MSRI method, combined with 75% of the recommended nitrogen dose and a 0.4% foliar nano-urea spray (M3S5), recorded the lowest CH? emissions at 50-60 mg CH?/m²/day, compared to 120-130 mg CH?/m²/day under CF. In contrast, N?O emissions under MSRI peaked at 11-13 µg N?O/m²/day, higher than CF (5-7 µg N?O/m²/day). MSRI also achieved the highest rice yields, averaging 6029 kg/ha in Kar 2022 and 6018 kg/ha in Samba 2023, compared to 5500-5700 kg/ha under AWD. These findings highlight the potential of MSRI with optimized nitrogen management as a sustainable alternative, balancing high productivity with reduced CH? emissions and offering a pathway for climate-resilient rice farming.

Honey bee toxicity of pesticides used in United States maize and soybean production, 1998–2020

Abstract Pesticides are widely used around the world and have demonstrated benefits to crop production. However, pesticides have also been associated with negative impacts to non-target organisms, including pollinators. Here, we combined pesticide usage and toxicity data to create a toxicity index, which shows that pesticide hazard to honey bees (Apis mellifera) has changed substantially in U.S. maize (Zea mays) and soybean (Glycine max) production between 1998 and 2020. To reduce potential risks to honey bees and increase the eco-efficiency of crop production, efforts should be made to refine management strategies for pests that contribute most to the honey bee toxicity index. In maize, Coleoptera and Lepidoptera pests drive pesticide usage most responsible for hazard to honey bees, although the relative hazard from targeting those pests has decreased over time. In soybean, hemipteran pests were the largest relative contributor to insecticide honey bee hazard. Specific pests that contributed to honey bee toxicity hazard included corn rootworm species (Diabrotica spp.), silk-eating insects, and cutworms in maize, and stink bugs (Family Pentatomidae) and aphid species (Family Aphididae) in soybean. We combined crop yield data with the toxicity index to quantify the eco-efficiency, a measure of crop yield per unit of toxicity hazard. While crop yield for both maize and soybean increased steadily throughout the study period, eco-efficiency decreased in both crops between 2012 to 2020, suggesting increases in crop yield have failed to keep pace with increases in insecticide hazard to honey bees.

Optimization of perilla seed oil extraction using supercritical CO<sub>2</sub>

This work studied the extraction of perilla oil from perilla seeds using supercritical carbon dioxide, which is valued for its high omega-3 content. Response surface methodology was used to investigate the optimum conditions of perilla oil extraction at pressures of 200, 225, and 250 bar and temperatures of 40°C, 50°C, and 60°C. The fatty acid composition was also investigated. The optimal condition was obtained at 60°C under a pressure of 218 bar. Under this extraction condition, the predicted measures of oil yield (%), acid value, peroxide value, iodine value, saponification value, total phenolic content, DPPH (IC50), ABTS (IC50), and tocopherol were: 37.00%, 1.22 mg KOH/g, 0.94 mEq O2/kg, 205.00 g I2/100 g, 196.90 mg KOH/g, 12.14 mg GAE/100 g, 10.93 mg/mL, 154.86 mg/mL, and 604.58 mg/kg, respectively. In addition, gas chromatography analysis indicated that perilla seed oil was primarily composed of linolenic acid (56.94–58.02%), with a total polyunsaturated fatty acid content of 75.49–76.47%, while saturated fatty acids and monounsaturated fatty acids constituted 10.53–11.11% and 13.00–13.52% of the total fatty acids, respectively.

Plot‐level satellite imagery can substitute for UAVs in assessing maize phenotypes across multistate field trials

Societal Impact StatementMaize plays a key role in agricultural profitability and food security on six continents. Successful efforts to breed higher‐yielding maize varieties depend on replicated yield trials in many environments. Capturing in‐season data can help improve and accelerate the development of regionally adapted hybrids, but collecting these data can be impractical in many locations. We demonstrate that satellite remote sensing could play a similar role in crop performance assessment as unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) but with far lower labor costs and the greatest ease of collection at remote field sites. This dataset and benchmarks have the potential to enable predictive models that could guide farmers and crop breeders in decision‐making.Summary Accurate early yield estimates at fields and plots offer potential benefits to farmers in optimizing their agronomic practices and breeders in screening thousands of varieties contributing to improving agriculture and food production systems. Effective approaches to track plant growth and predict yield require large datasets of remote sensing and ground truth data collected across multiple environments. Low‐altitude drone flights are increasingly being used to collect data from field evaluations of new crop varieties, while satellite imagery is being explored to track yield and management practices at regional scales. Satellite platforms exhibit logistical and technical advantages in scalability and accessibility and could facilitate plot‐level predictions, especially with steadily improving spatial resolution. However, plot‐level, high‐resolution satellite images capturing differences in genotypes from multiple environments with ground truth measurements are not publicly available. Here, we generated, described, and evaluated over 20,000 plot‐level images of over 80 hybrid maize varieties grown across the US corn belt under various management practices collected from (near simultaneous) satellite and drone (synonym UAVs, UASs) flights integrated with ground truth yield measurement. Of the six baseline models examined, models employing data collected from satellite images often matched the performance of models employing drone images for both within and cross‐environment yield prediction.

Factors governing H3+ formation from methyl halogens and pseudohalogens

The formation of H3+ following the double ionization of small organic compounds via a roaming mechanism, which involves the generation of H2 and subsequent proton abstraction, has recently garnered significant attention. Nonetheless, a cohesive model explaining trends in the yield of H3+ characterizing these unimolecular reactions is yet to be established. We report yield and femtosecond time-resolved measurements following the strong-field double ionization of CH3X molecules, where X = OD, Cl, NCS, CN, SCN, and I. These measurements, combined with double-ionization-potential equation-of-motion coupled-cluster ab initio calculations used to determine the geometries and energetics of CH3X2+ dications, are employed to identify the key factors governing the formation of H3+ in certain doubly ionized CH3X species and its absence in others. We also carry out ab initio molecular dynamics simulations to obtain detailed microscopic insights into the mechanism, yields, and timescales of H3+ production. We find that the excess relaxation energy released after double ionization of CH3X molecules combined with substantial geometrical distortion that favors H2 formation prior to proton abstraction boost the generation of H3+. Our study provides useful guidelines for examining alternative sources of H3+ in the universe.

FOLIAR APPLICATION OF SUGARCANE MOLASSES CAN ALLEVIATE STRESSFUL CONDITION IN GLYCINE MAX (L.) MERR. CROP UNDER FIELD CONDITIONS

The objective of the present study was to investigate the effects of sugarcane molasses application at 2 days (D2) and 7 days (D7) after precipitation after a period of drought stress on some physiological, growth, and yield parameters of soybean under field conditions. The experiment was set to obtain 14 plants per meter of row, and considered two treatments: molasses application at 2 days (D2) and 7 days (D7) after precipitation, after ca. 1 month without rainfall. Twenty days after the second application, thermographic and chlorophyll a fluorescence measurements were taken at the reproductive stage (R5 - early seed filling). Measurements were conducted between 12:00 and 14:00, representing the hottest hours of the day, on fully expanded leaves. Additionally, plant growth and yield measurements were taken from the same plants at the reproductive stage R7. The plot treated with sugarcane molasses application at D2 showed increased productivity (ca. 58%) due to higher stomatal conductance as reflected by water stress and relative stomatal conductance thermal index conditions.

Meso-Substituted AB3-type phenothiazinyl porphyrins and their indium and zinc complexes photosensitising properties, cytotoxicity and phototoxicity on ovarian cancer cells.

New meso-substituted AB3-type phenothiazinyl porphyrins and ferrocenylvinyl phenothiazinyl porphyrin were synthesised by Suzuki-Miyaura and Mizoroki-Heck cross-coupling reactions, respectively. The free porphyrins were further used in the synthesis of new indium(iii) or zinc(ii) porphyrin complexes. All porphyrins exhibit red fluorescence emission in solution, a property that remains unimpaired following internalisation in ovarian A2780 cancer cells, as evidenced by fluorescence microscopy images. The In(iii) phenothiazinyl porphyrin complexes show a higher quantum yield of fluorescence emission (2aΦ F = 30%, 4aΦ F = 29%, 5aΦ F = 28%) compared to the free base porphyrin precursors, or Zn(ii) complex 4b (Φ F = 10%). The potential of novel phenothiazinyl porphyrins to act as photosensitisers was evaluated using two distinct approaches. The first was through the measurement of the singlet oxygen quantum yield Φ Δ(1O2), while the second employed in vitro measurements of metabolic activity, oxidative stress, nuclear factor-erythroid 2 related factor 2 (Nrf-2) activation and tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) under both dark and light irradiation conditions. As reflected by the IC50 values, the most potent cytotoxicity of the phenothiazinyl porphyrins against the A2780 cells was observed for In(iii) ferrocenylvinyl phenothiazinyl porphyrin 4a (36.38 μM), the remaining compounds are less cytotoxic. The reduction in metabolic activity was observed in A2780 ovarian tumour cells treated with 4a and 6a and exposed to light compared to treatment in the absence of light. The oxidative stress, TNF-α and Nrf-2 transcription factor were particularly notable when A2780 cells were treated with 4a and subsequently photoirradiated, the oxidative stress was linked to the highest value of Φ Δ(1O2) recorded for 4a (60%).

The Impact of Silver Codoping on Tb3+ Luminescence in Lithium Tetraborate Glasses.

Spectroscopic properties of Tb-doped and Tb-Ag codoped lithium tetraborate (LTB) glasses with Li2B4O7 (or Li2O-2B2O3) composition are investigated and analysed using electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR), optical absorption, photoluminescence (PL) and photoluminescence excitation (PLE) spectra, PL decay kinetics and absolute quantum yield (QY) measurements. PL spectra of the investigated glasses show numerous narrow emission bands corresponding to the 5D4 → 7FJ (J = 6-0) and 5D3 → 7FJ (J = 5-3) transitions of Tb3+ (4f8) ions. The most intense PL band of Tb3+ ions at 541 nm (5D4 → 7F5 transition) is characterised by a lifetime slightly exceeding 2.6 ms. PL spectra of the Ag-containing glass show two broad weakly resolved emission bands in the violet-green spectral range attributed to Ag+ ions and nonplasmonic Ag nanoclusters. Decay kinetics of these bands are nonmonoexponential, characterised by an average lifetime in the microsecond range. A significant enhancement of the PL intensity and PL QY of Tb3+ ions was observed in Tb-Ag codoped LTB glass in comparison with Tb-doped LTB glass. The excitation energy transfer (EET) mechanisms from Ag+ ions and Ag nanoclusters to Tb3+ ions were explored.

Comparative study of electron transport through aromatic molecules on gold nanoparticles: insights from soft X-ray spectroscopy of condensed nanoparticle films versus flat monolayer films.

Understanding electron transport in self-assembled monolayers on metal nanoparticles (NPs) is crucial for developing NP-based nanodevices. This study investigates ultrafast electron transport through aromatic molecules on NP surfaces via resonant Auger electron spectroscopy (RAES) with a core-hole-clock (CHC) approach. Aromatic molecule-coated Au NPs are deposited to form condensed NP films, and flat monolayers are prepared for comparison. Soft X-ray techniques, including X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and near-edge X-ray absorption fine structure spectroscopy, confirm oriented monolayers in both NP and flat films. The nuclear dynamics is studied via ion yield measurements. After subtracting secondary processes, the ion yield spectra of the condensed NP films reveal site-selective desorption of the methyl ester group by resonant core excitation. The ultrafast electron transport time from the carbonyl group through the phenyl rings to the metal surfaces in the condensed NP films is successfully determined via the RAES-CHC approach by subtracting inelastic scattering components. The chain length of the aromatic molecules influence the electron transport time in the NP films, reflecting the trends observed in the flat films. This evidence supports ultrafast electron transport via the through-bond model, independent of interactions between the molecules adsorbed on an NP itself or adjacent NPs. Identifying and subtracting background spectral components of the condensed NP films allows accurate analysis of the ultrafast dynamics. This study suggests that insights gained from electron transport processes in the flat monolayer films can be extrapolated to practical NP-molecule interfaces, providing valuable insights for the molecular design of NP-based devices.

Multiplicity dependence of hyperon and hypertriton production in Zr+Zr and Ru+Ru collisions at √sNN = 200 GeV

We present yield measurements on hyperons (Λ, Λ¯ and Ξ¯, Ξ¯+) and hypertriton (3ΛH, 3/ΛH¯) in four different centrality classes of Zr+Zr and Ru+Ru collisions at √sNN = 200 GeV. The yield ratios of Λ/π−, Ξ−/π−, 3ΛH/Λ and S3= (3ΛH/Λ)/(3He/p) are reported as a function of multiplicity, while the ratio of 3ΛH/3He is reported as a function of pT in each centrality. The comparisons between data and models are discussed. These results provide insights on particle production mechanisms in heavy-ion collisions.

Foliar zinc sulfate application effects on biomass and forage traits of annual ryegrass (Lolium multiflorum Lam.) in zinc-deficient soils

Deficiencies of essential micronutrients in forage crops can result in reduced growth, diminished nutrient content, and reduced in forage quality. This can, in turn, affect the nutritional requirements of livestock and the overall productivity of the agricultural sector. The experiment was initiated during the 2023-24 production season and employed four zinc sulfate doses (0, 0.2, 0.4, 0.6 % w/v) and five varieties of annual ryegrass (Lolium multiflorum Lam. cv. İlkadım, cv. Master, cv. Baqueno, cv. Caramba, cv. Trinova), with four replications. SPAD measurements were obtained following the foliar application of zinc sulfate, and plant height (cm), flag leaf length (cm), flag leaf width (cm), leaf number per plant, and leaf area (cm2) parameters were collected through the single mowing of annual ryegrass. After the fresh forage yield (t ha-1) measurements, ADF (%), NDF (%), crude protein ratio (%), crude protein yield (kg da-1) and relative feed value were measured and calculated. As a result of the data obtained, it was determined that foliar zinc sulfate applications can make positive changes in yield and quality, while at the same time increasing the amount of fiber. While İlkadım had the highest average value with 1.48 t da-1 in terms of hay yield, the highest value among zinc sulfate doses was obtained from 0.6 % with 1.47 t da-1. High values were obtained at 0.4 % and 0.6 % doses. Among the varieties, İlkadım and Baqueno had higher yield and quality characteristics. However, it is understood that the responses to foliar zinc sulfate applications occurred in different percentages among the others.

Insights of nano-NPK foliar application on growth and yield of maize (Zea mays L.)

Maize (Zea mays L.), a nutrient-demanding crop, faces significant challenges when conventional fertilizers are applied excessively, leading to adverse effects such as soil degradation, nutrient leaching and environmental eutrophication. In response to the growing need for sustainable agricultural practices, innovative fertilization techniques and nano-fertilizers have emerged as viable solutions. The present study, conducted during the rabi season (2024) using a randomized block design with 8 treatments and 3 replications to investigate the impact of IFFCO Nano-NPK (8-8-8) foliar fertilizer on maize growth and yield. The study assessed the effectiveness of nano NPK through growth, yield and nutrient uptake measurements. Results indicated that applying a 100% recommended dose of NPK fertilizers (RDF) and two foliar sprays of 1% nano-NPK at critical growth stages (V6-V8 and V11-V12), significantly improved plant growth and yield attributes. Notably, this performance was statistically at par with 75% RDF with two foliar sprays of 1% nano-NPK. These findings suggest that nano-NPK foliar applications can reduce traditional fertilizer use by 25% while maintaining optimal growth, yield and nutrient uptake. Thus, nano-NPK application offers a sustainable pathway for maize production, enhancing nutrient efficiency and reducing fertilizer inputs.

Visible‐Light‐Enabled Regioselective C−H alkylation and alkenylation of 2‐Aryl Heterocycles using Dual Catalysis

AbstractVisible light‐induced site‐selective C−H alkylation and alkenylation of 2‐aryl heteroarenes with maleimides at room temperature via dual catalysis in an aqueous medium has been disclosed. This operationally simple and mild approach enables the selective formation of alkylation and alkenylation products up to 92% yield under silver‐free conditions with excellent substrate scope. For the mechanistic examination, KIE, H/D labeling experiments, light on‐off experiments, and quantum yield measurements were carried out. Moreover, the present approach for the alkylation and alkenylation of 2‐aryl heteroarenes is suitable for scalable synthesis.

Mechanistic Investigation of a Photoredox Cycloaddition Chain Reaction.

Photoredox catalysis is important in modern organic chemistry and the development of new synthetic methods. Mechanistic insights, particularly with photoredox chain reactions, are underdeveloped. This study combines quantum yield (QY) measurements, transient absorption spectroscopy (TAS), and electrochemical analysis to rigorously characterize the mechanism and rate constants of a ruthenium-catalyzed photoredox chain [4 + 2] cyclization between trans-anethole and isoprene. TAS and steady-state photochemical measurements (QY studies) reveal the role of oxygen in chain propagation as a secondary electron acceptor. The key kinetic competition between chain propagation and termination is identified by TAS and explored with kinetic modeling.

Malt Barley Yield and Quality Response to Crop Water Stress Index

Malt barley is a crucial irrigated crop in the semi-arid Western United States, where the states of Idaho, Colorado, Wyoming, and Utah account for 92% of the irrigated production acreage and 30% of total U.S. production. In this region, spring malt barley’s seasonal evapotranspiration ranges from 400 to 650 mm, and competition for limited water supplies, coupled with drought, is straining regional water resources. This study aimed to investigate the use of canopy temperature for deficit irrigation scheduling of malt barley. Specifically, the objectives were to use data-driven models to estimate well-watered (TLL) and non-transpiring (TUL) canopy temperatures, correlate the crop water stress index (CWSI) with malt barley yield and quality measures, and assess the applicability of CWSI for malt barley irrigation scheduling in a semi-arid climate. A 3-year field study was conducted with five irrigation treatments relative to estimated crop evapotranspiration (full, 75%, 50%, 25%, and no irrigation) and four replicates each. Continuous canopy temperature measurements and meteorological data were collected, and a feedforward neural network model was used to predict TLL, while a physical model was used to estimate TUL. The neural network model accurately predicted TLL, with a strong correlation (R2 = 0.99), a root mean square error of 0.89 °C, and a mean absolute error of 0.70 °C. Significant differences in calculated season-average CWSI were observed between the irrigation treatments, and relative evapotranspiration, malt barley relative yield, test weight, and plump kernels were negatively correlated with the season-average CWSI, while seed protein was positively correlated. The relationship between daily CWSI and fraction of available soil water was well described by an exponential decay function (R2 = 0.72). These results demonstrate the applicability of data-driven models for computing CWSI of irrigated spring malt barley in a semi-arid environment and their ability to assess plant water stress and predict crop yield and quality response from CWSI.