Sarcoidosis incidence peaks in females around the fifth decade of life, which coincides with menopause, suggesting hormonal factors play a role in disease development. We investigated whether longer exposure to reproductive and hormonal factors is associated with reduced sarcoidosis risk.We conducted a matched case–control study nested within the Mammography Screening Project. Incident sarcoidosis cases were identified via medical records and matched to controls on birth and questionnaire date (1:4). Information on hormonal factors was obtained through questionnaires prior to sarcoidosis diagnosis. Multilevel modelling was used to estimate adjusted odds ratios with 95% credible intervals .In total, 32 sarcoidosis cases and 124 controls were included. Higher sarcoidosis odds were associated with older age at menarche (OR 1.19: 95% CI 0.92–1.55), natural menopause versus non-natural (OR 1.53: 95% CI 0.80–2.93), later age at first pregnancy (OR 1.11: 95% CI 0.76–1.63) and ever hormone replacement therapy (HRT) use (OR 1.40: 95% CI 0.76–2.59). Lower odds were associated with older age at menopause (OR 0.90: 95% CI 0.52–1.55), longer duration of oral contraceptive use (OR 0.70: 95% CI 0.45–1.07), longer duration of HRT use (OR 0.61: 95% CI 0.22–1.70), ever local estrogen therapy (LET) use (OR 0.83: 95% CI 0.34–2.04) and longer duration of LET use (OR 0.78: 95% CI 0.21–2.81). However, the CIs could not rule out null associations.Given the inconsistency and modest magnitude in our estimates, and that the 95% credible intervals included one, it still remains unclear whether longer estrogen exposure is associated with reduced sarcoidosis risk.The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12890-022-01834-1. Sarcoidosis is a multisystem inflammatory disease of hitherto unknown etiology which mainly affects the lungs and lymph nodes . In SwedSome reports indicate that patients with sarcoidosis often undergo remission during pregnancy, suggesting a favorable effect of endogenous hormones , 5. HoweWe performed a nested case–control study using information from the Mammography Screening Project (MSP). Our aim was to investigate whether longer exposure to estrogen, proxied by reproductive and hormonal factors, is associated with subsequent reduced risk of sarcoidosis in women.We used a matched case–control study design with cases and controls selected from the MSP, which has been presented in detail elsewhere . BrieflyIncident sarcoidosis cases were identified who received an International Classification of Diseases (ICD)-9 135 or ICD-10 D86 diagnosis at the University Hospital of Umeå [Information on reproductive and hormonal factors was obtained from the MSP questionnaires at the time of recruitment in the cohort or during follow-up questionnaires prior to sarcoidosis diagnosis. A detailed description of the exposure variables is presented in Table Data on body mass index (BMI) and smoking were obtained from the MSP questionnaires at the time of recruitment in the cohort . BMI was calculated as weight in kilograms divided by height in meters squared and kept as a continuous variable in the analysis. Smoking status was categorized into non-smoker vs. smoker. These variables are potential confounders since previous studies have found these factors to be associated with both sarcoidosis –15 and wCharacteristics of sarcoidosis cases and controls from the MSP were reported as means with standard deviations, as medians with ranges or as proportions. Bayesian hierarchical regression analysis, also known as multilevel modelling, by data augmentation was used to estimate adjusted odds ratios with 95% credible intervals  for the associations between multiple reproductive and hormonal factors and incident sarcoidosis. The OR was used to estimate the risk ratio. The Bayesian 95% credible intervals are interpreted as the probability that the true (unknown) odds ratio would lie within the interval is equal to 0.95, given the evidence provided by the observed data . The poiIn a secondary analysis, we estimated the association between reproductive and hormonal factors with pulmonary sarcoidosis (excluding extra-pulmonary cases) to restrict to a more homogenous sarcoidosis phenotype.We conducted several sensitivity analyses to test the robustness of the ORs from the main analysis. First, we used a prior τ of 0.125, implying a prior expectation that 95% of the ORs would lie between 0.5 and 2, to assess the sensitivity of our findings to the choice of a different prior. Second, we disregarded BMI and smoking from the main analysis to avoid adjustment for potential mediators as they were measured after the occurrence of some reproductive factors such as age at menarche and parity. Third, to address the low number of cases, we included the 10 sarcoidosis cases who had been diagnosed before the questionnaire date. Fourth, we performed the analysis among menopausal women since some reproductive factors such as age at menopause and HRT are related to menopause.Data management and statistical analyses were performed using SAS software .A total of 32 cases and 124 controls were included in the study. The median age of cases and controls at questionnaire was 57 , natural menopause vs. non-natural (OR 1.53: 95% CI 0.80–2.93), later age at first pregnancy (OR 1.11: 95% CI 0.76–1.63) and ever use of HRT (OR 1.40: 95% CI 0.76–2.59) . These proxies were obtained prior to sarcoidosis diagnosis, minimizing the possibility of differential exposure misclassification (reverse causation bias). Lastly, the use of partial pooling in the hierarchical regression models yielded more efficient estimates by borrowing information from the different exposures while eliminating the need to adjust for multiplicity.There are several limitations to our study. There may be some nondifferential misclassification of reproductive and hormonal factors due to the self-reported nature of our data. In addition, we could not distinguish between specific types of OC or HRT, as detailed data were not available in the MSP questionnaire; hence, their explicit effects on sarcoidosis were not possible to disentangle. Moreover, our study was limited by the small number of cases. To address this limitation, we used multilevel modelling and a weak prior to improve the precision and accuracy of unstable estimates. Due to small numbers of subjects with some exposures such as parity (few nulligravid women) and menopausal status , these exposures were difficult to study. Furthermore, there may be unmeasured confounding due to socioeconomic factors which have been found to be associated with pregnancy-  and hormOur results may only be generalizable to older onset sarcoidosis, since sarcoidosis diagnosed at a younger age may differ in terms of etiology (e.g. pathogenetic factors). Lastly, the generalizability of our findings may be limited to Caucasian women if the effect of reproductive factors on sarcoidosis risk is different between African American and Caucasian women due to differences in estrogen concentrations.Given the inconsistency and modest magnitude in our results across hormone-related factors, and that the 95% credible intervals included one, it still remains unclear if reproductive and hormonal factors are associated with sarcoidosis.Additional file 1.Appendix A: Mammography Survey. Appendix B: Supplemental Methods. Appendix C: Supplemental Tables.


Direct comparison of sarcoidosis and IPF did not show any differentially regulated genes independent from the statistical methodology. Biological pathway analysis revealed a number of fibrosis-related pathways pronounced in IPF without differences in the regulatory direction. Conclusions: These results demonstrate that FF of end-stage IPF and sarcoidosis lungs, although different in initiation, are similar in gene and protein expression, encouraging further studies on the use of antifibrotic agents in sarcoidosis.Background: Fibroblastic foci (FF) are characteristic features of usual interstitial pneumonia (UIP)/idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) and one cardinal feature thought to represent a key mechanism of pathogenesis. Hence, FF have a high impact on UIP/IPF diagnosis in current guidelines. However, although less frequent, these histomorphological hallmarks also occur in other fibrotic pulmonary diseases. Currently, there is therefore a gap in knowledge regarding the underlying molecular similarities and differences of FF in different disease entities. Methods: In this work, we analyzed the compartment-specific gene expression profiles of FF in IPF and sarcoidosis in order to elucidate similarities and differences as well as shared pathomechanisms. For this purpose, we used laser capture microdissection, mRNA and protein expression analysis. Biological pathway analysis was performed using two different gene expression databases. As control samples, we used healthy lung tissue that was donated but not used for lung transplantation. Results: Based on Holm Bonferroni corrected expression data, mRNA expression analysis revealed a significantly altered expression signature for 136 out of 760 genes compared to healthy controls while half of these showed a similar regulation in both groups. Immunostaining of selected markers from each group corroborated these results. However, when comparing all differentially expressed genes with the  Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a devastating chronic pulmonary disease, characterized by aberrant deposition of extracellular matrix and resulting in progressive and irreversible pulmonary remodelling . IPF typAlthough less frequent, FF can also manifest in a handful of other fibrosing pulmonary diseases like sarcoidosis , non-speSarcoidosis is a granulomatous systemic disease predominantly affecting the lungs. The knowledge on its pathogenesis is still limited, but it is generally believed that at least one agent induces a self-maintaining immune reaction that results in a chronic granulomatous remodelling of the lungs, sometimes capable of inducing progressive pulmonary fibrosis . The hisTo date, data on the prevalence of FF in variant fibrosing pulmonary diseases is very limited. In addition, it is still unclear if the molecular signaling pathways and pathomechanisms contributing to their formation are similar across different entities. However, based on the comparable histomorphology, it can be hypothesized that there is a related molecular background of FF in variant fibrosing lung diseases. To approach this issue, we selected lungs from clinically well-characterized IPF and sarcoidosis patients as well as healthy controls and performed a molecular comparison of FF from both entities in a compartment-specific comprehensive analysis.The Institute of Pathology at Hannover Medical School archives a large number of lung specimens. Among these, there are about 1000 lung explants from patients who underwent lung transplantation for end-stage disease. Explants are consistently worked-up in a standardized manner immediately after explantation as described elsewhere  enablingn = 33 subjects. Of these, n = 6 were diagnosed as IPF and n = 6 as pulmonary sarcoidosis, respectively. n = 21 control samples were obtained from healthy lungs that were donated, but not used for lung transplantation : sometimes, allocated lung transplants are oversized in regard to the recipients’ thorax. In such a situation, transplants are surgically downsized in order to prevent post-transplant oversize-related problems. However, the resected lung tissue is also healthy and vital and therefore suitable as control material. The histopathological diagnosis of sarcoidosis / IPF and the prevalence of FF were confirmed in all selected cases by two experienced pulmonary pathologists .Our study groups comprised To date, there is no generally accepted histomorphological definition of FF. Based on our personal practical experience from > 10 years we specified the following criteria. In our experience, the obligatory criterion for the identification of FF is the accumulation of fibroblasts and/or myofibroblasts, perpendicularly oriented to the alveolar septae. Further defining criteria are divided into major and minor criteria. Major criteria include the alignment of myofibroblasts in a fascicular order, a background of immature extracellular matrix, and protrusion into the alveolar space. Minor criteria include covering by hyperplastic type-II pneumocytes or bronchiolar epithelial cells, existence at the forefront of fibrotic remodeling, directly adjacent to ventilated air spaces, and edema of the extracellular matrix. Lesions are designated as incomplete FF if at least 1 major and 1 minor criterion are missing ,12,13.n = 6 patients, respectively, using laser microdissection with the aim of generating compartment-specific RNA isolates. For this purpose, formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) lung tissue was prepared in a specific manner. First of all, sections with approximately 10 µm thickness were cut and placed on membrane coated RNAse free microscopy slides . Following this, sections were uncoated from paraffin using a descending alcohol series and then stained with filtered haemalum, but not with eosin to prevent RNA damage. All steps were performed in compliance with the usual hygiene regulations in order to prevent contaminations. 30 slides in 2 sections were used for laser dissection from each case. Laser microdissection was performed using the CellCut Plus system . Selection and encircling of FF was conducted using Cell Tools V5.0 software . Finally, encircled regions were laser-cut and withdrawn using isolation caps . All samples from one patient were collected in one tube.Samples of both entities were obtained from GUSB) and phosphoglycerate kinase 1 (PGK1) were designated as reference genes for standardization of measurements. Further analyses on the ascertained log2 mRNA counts were performed using R software version 3.4.4  and the nCounter Advanced Analysis module version 1.1.5. The absolute gene expression results of both entities were analyzed and compared with each other. A Shapiro-Wilks test performed on all intragroup gene expressions showed a predominant normal distribution of data. Hence, t-tests were used for pairwise comparisons and ANOVA for multi group comparisons. False discovery rates (fdr) were calculated and values < 0.05 were considered statistically significant. Statistical analysis was concluded by correction for multiple testing using the Holm Bonferroni method. Biological pathway analysis was performed using the GeneOntology database as well as gene-pathway associations supplied by the manufacturer.Compartment-specific RNA was isolated from the obtained tissue extracts using the RNeasy FFPE Kit . RNA content was measured using the Qubit RNA IQ Assay  guaranteeing a minimum of 100 ng in each sample. Samples were then analyzed using a commercial panel on 760 fibrosis-specific genes (nCounter Human Fibrosis V2 Panel) and the nCounter Analysis System . Afterwards, normalization of counts was performed using the nSolver analysis software version 3.0 . Therefore, 10 internal reference genes were used, as predefined by the manufacturer. Well established housekeeping genes (glucuronidase beta (Paraffin sections (2 μm) of both entities were used for complementary immunostaining. Immunohistochemical targets were selected based on the disease-specific mRNA profile see  and delin = 6 IPF patients and n = 6 sarcoidosis patients were compared with each other as well as with n = 21 healthy controls. Sex distribution differed with 1 and 4 female patients in the IPF and sarcoidosis group, respectively, while age distribution was very similar in both groups. Healthy controls samples were age and gender matched. However, as the healthy control samples were obtained from tissue that was donated but not used for lung transplantation, clinical information cannot be provided in detail here due to data protection regulations and respecting the anonymity of donors. More details are shown in In this study, lung tissue samples from The mRNA expression analysis revealed a significantly altered expression signature for 375 out of 760 genes compared to controls as depicted in fdr-values, only 2 of all these genes remained differentially expressed as depicted in CAT1) and increased expression of SMAD specific E3 ubiquitin protein ligase 1 (SMURF1), both in the sarcoidosis group. Raw data are deposited in Based on the Holm Bonferroni corrected results, 67 of these 136 genes showed an altered expression compared to controls solely in sarcoidosis or in IPF. However, with regard to the In comparison of FF from both entities with healthy control lungs, a number of biological pathways showed increased activity in FF from both entities as shown in Based on the disease specific mRNA expression signatures, we selected fibroblast activation protein alpha (FAP), vascular cell adhesion molecule 1 (VCAM1), cluster of differentiation 86 (CD86) as well as collagen types 5 (COL5) and 6 (COL6) as appropriate markers for immunostaining. In addition, we used marker of proliferation Ki-67 (Ki-67) as a proliferation marker. As depicted in IPF and sarcoidosis represent chronic pulmonary diseases with various degrees of progressive pulmonary fibrosis. In end-stage disease of both entities, bilateral lung transplantation remains the only viable treatment option. Although histopathological findings differ between IPF and sarcoidosis, FF can be present in both entities. However, usually FF are larger and more prevalent in IPF, than in sarcoidosis  or otherOne fundamental finding of our study was the striking similarity of differentially regulated genes when directly comparing IPF and sarcoidosis lungs, distinctly suggesting a common nature of FF, independent from the underlying disease. Even when comparing sarcoidosis and IPF lungs with healthy controls, 69 of the 136 genes with an altered expression profile showed a similar expression in both entities and only 2 genes showed a contrary-regulated expression. With regard to the significantly regulated biological pathways, regulatory patterns were basically the same in both entities, while particularly the fibrogenesis-related pathways were pronounced in IPF lungs. The fact that particularly inflammation-related pathways such as interferon type I/II, tumor necrosis factor production, toll-like receptor, chemokine, and T-cell receptor signaling were less pronounced in tissue from FF compared to healthy controls, might be a consequence of the compartment-specific tissue analysis and the comparison to mRNA from whole lung slices consisting of many other cell-types such as myocytes, endothelial and immune cells.At first glance, there was a number of single genes with an altered expression signature between sarcoidosis and IPF lungs, as compared to controls, respectively. Here we focused on selected genes with an established relationship to fibrogenesis, sarcoidosis, and/or IPF.VCAM1 and integrin subunit beta 3 (ITGB3) [NCAM1) in both entities as well as anaphase promoting complex subunit 10 (ANAPC10) and proteasome 26S subunit, non-ATPase 13 (PSMD13) in IPF lungs. Hence, cell cycle and cell adhesion molecules appear to play an important role in the development of FF in both entities, supporting the hypothesis of a common nature of FF in variant disease entities.In a former study by Guillotin et al., myofibroblasts within fibroblastic foci from IPF lungs had been isolated using laser microdissection and specifically analyzed . Among o (ITGB3)  in sarcoLOXL1 and LOXL2 are known to be strongly involved in the process of pulmonary fibrogenesis [LOXL1 and LOXL2 levels both on the mRNA and on the protein level have been described in IPF [TGF-B1) overexpression in knockout mice by blocking fibrillar collagen organization and subsequent tissue stiffening [LOXL1 and LOXL2 have been suggested as potential therapeutic targets in IPF [LOXL1 and LOXL4 showed increased expression in the IPF group, as well as LOXL2 and LOXL4 in the sarcoidosis group. Thus, although not identical, there are distinct similarities with regard to the expression of LOXL proteins in FF from sarcoidosis and IPF lungs.Lysyl oxidase-like (LOXL) protein coding genes belong to a family of ECM crosslinking enzymes and particularly ogenesis . Increasd in IPF  and LOXLiffening . In addis in IPF . In our MMP7 is known to play a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of IPF [MMP1 expression was related to IPF associated with non-small cell lung cancer in a recent work [MMP7 in FF from UIP patients within a compartment-specific analysis [MMP7 showed an increased expression in FF not only from IPF but also from sarcoidosis lungs. Additionally, MMP1 showed increased expression in sarcoidosis. These results demonstrate again the molecular conformity of FF from both entities.Matrix metalloproteinases (MMP) represent a family of proteins involved in the turnover of extracellular matrix in physiological and pathological processes, such as embryonic organogenesis and fibrotic tissue remodeling. Of these, s of IPF ,20. In aent work . Howeverent work ,23 whileent work . One stuanalysis  and one analysis . In the PDGFR), fibroblast growth factor receptor (FGR) and vascular endothelial growth factor receptor (VEGFR) [Basically, tyrosine kinases can be divided into receptor and non-receptor tyrosine kinases depending on their location in cells. Receptor tyrosine kinases (RTK) have been shown to contribute substantially to the fibrogenesis in IPF ,28. On t (VEGFR) .MET) serves as a key regulator of invasive growth. In relation to fibrogenesis in IPF, MET regulates the proliferation and survival of fibroblasts as well as their migration across the ECM, making it a potential molecular target for antifibrotic therapies [PLCG1) mediates the production of two second messenger molecules involved in the regulation of intracellular signaling cascades [PLCG1 becomes activated in response to ligand-mediated activation of several RTK, including platelet-derived growth factor receptor (PDGFR) and fibroblast growth factor receptor (FGFR) [MET and PLCG1 in FF from IPF lungs within the IPF group, reinforcing the important role of RTK for the fibrogenesis in IPF.The RTK MET proto-oncogene (herapies . Phosphocascades . Of noter (FGFR) . In our SRC) subsume a number of non-receptor tyrosine kinases pivotal for several signal transduction and regulatory processes, as well as for cell proliferation and differentiation [PDGFR [SRC proto-oncogenes  and alveolar fibroelastosis (AFE) are based on the same molecular processes independent from the respective disease entities . Interes


IPF: Societies) is an interrelated set of strategies that can help ProSs change leaders  and organizations identify and address mental models hindering DEI reform. The IPF: Societies uses four “I's”—Identity awareness and Intercultural mindfulness  upon which inclusive relationships and Influential DEI actions are scaffolded. We discuss how the IPF: Societies complements existing DEI tools . We explain how the IPF: Societies can be applied to existing ProS policy and practice associated with common ProS functions . The next steps are to pilot the IPF: Societies with a cohort of STEM ProSs. Ultimately, the IPF: Societies has potential to promote more efficient, effective, and lasting DEI organizational transformation and contribute to inclusive STEM disciplinary excellence.Science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) professional societies (ProSs) are uniquely positioned to foster national-level diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) reform. ProSs serve broad memberships, define disciplinary norms and culture, and inform accrediting bodies and thus provide critical levers for systems change. STEM ProSs could be instrumental in achieving the DEI system reform necessary to optimize engagement of all STEM talent, leveraging disciplinary excellence resulting from diverse teams. Inclusive STEM system reform requires that underlying “mental models” be examined. The Inclusive Professional Framework for Societies ( Addressing complex global challenges, such as climate change and health disparities, requires optimal engagement of people trained in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). Because diverse teams embody enhanced capacity for problem solving, innovation, and resilience, they advance disciplinary excellence in a way that homogenous groups cannot e.g., . ConsequUnfortunately, STEM cultures often discourage diversity by reproducing exclusionary norms and values . CurrentWhile STEM systems reform is clearly needed to attract, retain, and support a thriving diverse STEM talent pool, there is widespread expectation that minoritized and marginalized people will, and should be, the ones tasked with changing a system by which they are oppressed and largely excluded . Majoritpolicies, practices, resource flows), semi-explicit , and implicit . Mental models hold the other conditions in place. Unless we learn to work at the mental models level, other structural changes “...will, at best, be temporary or incomplete” , STEM ProSs are uniquely positioned as critical levers for STEM systems change e.g., . Peters Inclusive Professional Framework for Disciplinary and Professional Societies (IPF: Societies) as an approach to help elucidate and adjust mental models that underlie STEM ProS functions . The IPF: Faculty was developed by the Aspire Alliance's National Change Initiative, which is part of the National Science Foundation's Inclusion across the Nation of Communities of Learners of Underrepresented Discoverers in Engineering and Science (NSF INCLUDES). The IPF: Societies was developed with input from leaders from the NSF ADVANCE-funded IPF: Societies graphic was created, along with example functions  differ is in the contexts and roles of those applying the framework. The IPF: Faculty was developed to promote inclusive skill development for faculty across their roles within academic institutions  , in the various functions that the society performs for its members and discipline, as discussed in greater detail below (see IPF: Societies with example ProS functions).Given the parallel role that mental models play in university and ProS systems, we propose that it is valuable to adapt the dership) . For theIPF: Societies has dual target audience foci: 1) DEI change leaders  and 2) the ProSs as a system . Key individuals within the organizational system are ProS DEI change leaders, known as “boundary spanners,” who are people within an organization who work to connect ideas, resources, and stakeholders  and external-focus  DEI awareness and organizational capacity are enhanced, better positioning ProSs to enact DEI systems change.The eholders . These ieholders ; 2) traneholders ; 3) diffeholders ; 4) gaineholders ; and 5) eholders . Boundareholders . We propM system . SimilarIPF: Societies' processes, showing how the equity mindset is developed and expands into relationships and actions that guide ProS core functioning, catalyzing STEM DEI systems change. We propose that the IPF: Societies can be usefully applied at both individual and organizational levels. Below we describe specific aspects of the IPF: Societies as well as its application.Identity awareness is an awareness of aspects of one's own social and cultural identities and how those identities are situated within larger intersecting systems of power. Intercultural mindfulness is the “ability to understand cultural differences in ways that enable one to interact effectively with others from different racial, ethnic, or social identity groups in both domestic and international contexts” . CollectEquity mindedness underpins building inclusive relationships. At both personal and organizational levels, willingness, capacity, and the communication skills to effectively engage those whose lived experiences may not match one's own is vital for examining mental models and advancing inclusive ProS DEI reform. At the boundary spanner level, inclusive relationships mean reflecting on whose voices are, and are not, centered and carry decision-making power when discussing important ProS policies, processes, and activities. From the STEM ProS perspective, building inclusive relationships could be reflected in collaborations with a range of organizations with intention to build mutual capacity. Inclusive relationships at the society level help shift social narratives and can inform sense making around information collected about the ProS, two examples of how mental models have critical impact on organizational systems .IPF: Societies-informed boundary spanners will engage in the influential actions associated with establishing new mental models and create accountability for nurturing the new diverse, equitable, and inclusive ProS look, feel, and actions.Influential actions are how boundary spanners and ProSs drive STEM system change. We propose that informed and diversely networked people serving as DEI boundary spanners will be motivated and held accountable for positive DEI change. Boundary spanners' actions can be focused on core ProS functions. Peters and others (2021) identified 11 functions of STEM ProSs for action focus. For explanatory purposes, we focus on a subset of five ProS functions identified by IPF: Societies complements the use of other DEI organizational tools and increases both individual and organizational capacity to more efficiently and effectively identify and engage with DEI actions resulting from use of these tools. For example, we offer the Women in Engineering ProActive Network's (WEPAN's) Four Frames for Promoting Gender Equity Within Organizations ; examine and recommend DEI changes to organizational structures, policies, and practices (Frame 2); call attention to ways in which ProS leaders and the organization are not “walking the DEI walk” (Frame 3); and identify and remedy incongruences between ProS existing practices and goals outlined in the ProS strategic plan (Frame 4). Similarly, from an organizational perspective, WEPAN's frames could be used to evaluate the equity of professional development programs and educational pathways (Frame 1); examine and revise organizational structures, policies, and practices to support greater DEI integration across all society functions (Frame 2); ensure that all leaders are, and continue to be, trained and coached on how to enact DEI-focused changes (Frame 3); and create opportunities to re-vision ProS culture and reflect that updated vision in the ProS mission and strategic plans (Frame 4).The izations . OriginaIPF: Societies complements the Equity Environmental Scanning Tool (EEST)  of IPF: Societies lens to the policies and practices associated with each of these functions will help uncover and offer an opportunity to change previously implicit ProS mental models. We use questions to illustrate application of the IPF: Societies. In each core ProS function (column 1), existing policies or practices are presented that might appear reasonable to some (column 2), but when the IPF: Societies lens is applied (column 3), systemic and structural inequities affecting how the ProS engages with staff and members become more visible. We offer example ideas of equitable practices that could emerge from application of the IPF: Societies (column 4). This table shows how the ProS may not be making programming decisions with an understanding of structural issues , therefore missing out on the opportunity to address them and counter obstacles to DEI through inclusive relationships and influential actions.As with WEPAN's four frames, the l (EEST) . The EESIPF: Societies is brought into the ProS DEI change cycle will likely be dictated by the culture of the ProS and/or ProS leaders. Examples for how the IPF: Societies can be used and inform engagement is depicted in When and where the IPF: Societies provide a framework for reflecting and acting on ProS culture at individual  and organizational levels. The IPF: Societies offers a way to guide change of mental models. ProS DEI boundary spanners employing the IPF: Societies can leverage their positionality and ability to straddle groups to affect cultural change across STEM ProSs, in combination with the efforts of other boundary spanners and in the disciplines in which they engage.In sum, Identity awareness and Intercultural mindfulness create an equity mindset that supports inclusive relationships and influential actions. The four “I's” core to the IPF: Societies offers a framework to begin difficult discussions and offers a structured approach for working toward change. Of course, to be effective, the IPF: Societies requires sustained mobilization of its pieces, vis-à-vis making DEI concerns part of the fabric of ProSs.Of critical importance when working with mental models in ProSs is the expectation that there may be resistance to DEI initiatives, especially among members with majoritized identities who may be invested, even subconsciously, in maintaining existing power structures . BecauseIPF: Societies could be ProS actions in service of a more diverse, inclusive, and equitable STEM culture writ large. Resultant increased individual capacity to engage in the articulation and reframing of legacy mental models in turn guides organizational transformation and culture reform through broader systems change. As organizations engage in systemic change, greater ProS and STEM culture DEI changes can be made. Eventually, DEI change becomes less about individual efforts for specific DEI actions and more about broad, structurally patterned ProS organizational transformation and, ultimately, STEM culture reform.Potential outcomes of wide-scale implementation of the


The LiCl-doped samples keep their original spherical morphology as pure ZnSn(OH)6, with some LiCl particles stuck to its surface, providing more active sites for the adsorption and desorption of water molecules. The influence of LiCl doping on the humidity-sensing properties was explored by varying the dopant concentration. The 16 wt% LiCl/ZnSn(OH)6 showed a better humidity-sensing performance than that of the pure ZnSn(OH)6 and other doped samples, including a high resistive sensitivity, a relatively small hysteresis, and a fast response speed. Through the FTIR analysis, the number of hydroxyl groups on the surface structure after aging has been found to decline markedly. These hydroxyl groups provide a platform for the adsorption of water molecules on the surface and promote the dissociation of water molecules. The detriment of aging to sensor performance should not be underrated. The complex impedance spectrum explains the mechanism of the sensor. These results demonstrate that ZnSn(OH)6 has potential application in fabricating humidity sensors, and the sensing performance of the sensor is enhanced by the dopant LiCl.Pure zinc hydroxystannate (ZnSn(OH) In recent years, sensors have played an essential role in technological development of human society as the devices to record, transmit, process, and store information . As one 6, (ZHS) is a typical perovskite-structured hydroxide material [6 and Zn(OH)6 polyhedra, which share their “O” corners to build the structural framework [ZnSn(OH)material . In thisramework . At the ramework ,20,21, gramework , flame rramework , lithiumramework ,25, biolramework , etc. Itramework ,28. The ramework , it is framework  endows hIn order to make the ZHS sensing material fully utilized, one of the most effective ways is to fabricate materials by combining ZHS with other humidity-sensing material dopants. The precious metals gold and silver are often selected as dopants and have been successfully doped into ZHS ,31. We hThe types of electrodes we commonly use are Dunmore, “sandwich”, interdigital electrode, and conventional sintered electrodes. Interdigital electrodes have the advantages of a wide humidity measurement range, high sensitivity, short response time, simple preparation process, good stability, and easy mass production ,37,38,39However, as per our knowledge, the humidity properties of ZHS have been seldom involved. Here, ZHS nanocrystalline was synthesized as a sensing material. The humidity sensor is fabricated by coating this material on Ag-Pd interdigitated electrodes. Humidity-sensing research into impedance sensitivity and response speed was carried out. The complex impedance and infrared spectrum characteristics were recorded to explain the sensing mechanism and the effect of surface hydroxyl variation on humidity-sensing properties.4·7H2O), potassium stannate trihydrate (K2SnO3·3H2O), ammonium hydroxide (NH3·H2O), lithium chloride (LiCl), magnesium chloride (MgCl), potassium carbonate (K2CO3), magnesium nitrate (Mg(NO3)2), copper chloride (CuCl2), sodium chloride (NaCl), potassium chloride (KCl), potassium nitrate (KNO3), formaldehyde (HCHO), ethanol (C2H6O), acetone (C3H6O), and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) were purchased from Sinopharm Chemical Reagent Co., Ltd., Beijing, China. All the reagents used in this experiment were of analytical grade.Zinc sulfate heptahydrate  of LiCl were added. After being aged for 3 h at room temperature, the resulting material were named 8 wt%, 12 wt%, 16 wt%, 20 wt%, and 24 wt% LiCl/ZHS. The synthesis process of ZHS and LiCl/ZHS is shown in −1 and performed at an angle range of 15–80°. The specific surface areas of the products were measured and analyzed by means of a nitrogen adsorption–desorption instrument (BET) . The morphologies of all of the samples were characterized by a field emission scanning electron microscope  at an accelerating voltage of 5 kV. The Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) spectra of the materials were recorded with a Nicolet IS5 spectrometer . A KBr pellet  was used to prepare the samples for FTIR measurement the range of 500–4000 cm−1 and averaged 32 times.The crystal structure of the samples was characterized by X-ray diffraction  with Cu Kα radiation (λ = 1.5418 Å) at a scan rate of 4.5° min2, K2CO3, Mg (NO3)2, CuCl2, NaCl, KCl, and KNO3 with the relative humidity of 11%, 33%, 43%, 54%, 64%, 75%, 85%, and 95%, respectively. In the humidity study, the voltage was set at 1 V AC, and the frequency changes from 40 Hz to 100 kHz. During the humidity sensitivity measurement, the prepared sensor was put into some chambers with different humidity, which were carried out by switching the sensor from one chamber quickly into another one. The sensors were aged in 100% RH chamber at 1 V AC and 100 Hz for about 3 h. All of the humidity-sensing measurements were carried out at 25 °C. The tests based on LiCl/ZHS sensors are similar to those reported previously [2H6O, C3H6O, H2O2, and NH3 five gases at a concentration of 500 ppm was tested at room temperature. The ambient humidity at room temperature is 30 RH%.To obtain the humidity sensors, the as-synthesized sample was mixed with deionized water in a weight ratio of 5:1 to form a paste. The paste was coated on a ceramic substrate  with five pairs of Ag-Pd interdigitated electrodes (electrodes width and distance: 0.15 mm) to form the sensitive film. The film was dried in air at 60 °C for 6 h. Finally, the humidity sensor was obtained. To test the humidity sensor characteristic, the ZAHNER-IM6EX electrochemical workstation  was used to measure the electrical properties of the sensors. The sensors were placed into eight chambers with different relative humidity at room temperature. The relative humidity of 11–95% RH was obtained using different saturated salt solutions as humidity sources. The saturated salt solutions were made from LiCl, MgCl6, according to the Scherrer formula: D = kλ/βcos θ. When the amount of dopant is 0–24 wt%, the crystal size of LiCl/ZHS shows a downward trend. The full peaks of ZHS and LiCl/ZHS shift less than 1 degree to the high angle, indicating that the crystal plane spacing is decreasing. As for LiCl-doped ZHS samples, fraction peaks corresponding to the dopant were not found, indicating that the introduction of LiCl dopant does not change the original crystal structure. The strong diffraction peaks with no impurities indicate the good crystallinity and high purity of the samples. The crystal structure of pure and LiCl-doped ZHS samples was confirmed by the XRD analysis, as shown in 2/g. From the element mapping analysis in 2 + 31.5562X − 34.6291, and the regression coefficient R2 = 0.98092. Generally speaking, the lower the water vapor pressure, the higher the impedance of the sensing material. However, the maximum impedance can be seen on the fitted image at a water vapor pressure of 0.4 kPa, which may be caused by the statistical error of low relative humidity measurement not considered in the numerical fitting.Response time refers to the time required for the sensor to reach 90% of the total impedance change during the moisture absorption and desorption. −1, especially a strong absorption peak at 3217 cm−1, was observed, which is attributed to the stretching of the hydroxyl groups [−1 [−1 is originated from the hydrogen bond between water molecules and the stretching modes of Sn-OH [The structure and functional groups are the key factors affecting the conductivity of sensing materials. In order to determine the functional groups on the film surface, Fourier infrared spectroscopy was performed, as displayed in l groups . In addioups [−1 . The absof Sn-OH , respect−1 shows distinct changes before and after aging. Compared with the decreased number of hydroxyl groups after aging, a large number of hydroxyl groups that exist before aging enable the samples to possess a strong adsorption capacity for water molecules. Such changes in the number of hydroxyls were also proved by analyzing the ZHS crystal structure and humidity characteristics before and after aging of the sensors, as shown in −1 [2 or CO2 adsorbed on the ZHS sample. The absorption peak at 1632 cm−1 [2 hybrid.It is worth mentioning that the absorption peak at 3217 cmwn in −1  is a res632 cm−1  is relat2H6O, C3H6O, H2O2, and NH3 at a concentration of 500 ppm to conduct the cross-sensitivity test, as shown in 2H6O, C3H6O, and NH3 can be observed to be very small. Among all the gases, the sensor exhibits the highest response toward NH3. At the same time, the sensor has good repeatability and stability after different testing cycles. After introducing LiCl, the response of the 16 wt% LiCl/ZHS sensor to these gases improved dramatically, which is attributed to the active site induced by doping nanoparticles on the ZHS surface. Moreover, the response of the 16 wt% LiCl/ZHS-based sensor to NH3 (2.0 × 106 Ω) is equivalent to that at 43% RH. Hence, the 16 wt% LiCl/ZHS humidity sensor before aging was immune to these gases in the 64–95% RH range. With regard to the highest response of ammonia, according to the widely accepted gas sensing theory, the sensitivity of the resistance gas sensor is related to the change of electron depletion layer. When the 16 wt% LiCl/ZHS sensor is exposed to the target gas, the surface will absorb oxygen  with the following reaction equations:To ensure the anti-interference of the ZHS and 16 wt% LiCl/ZHS humidity sensor in the presence of some other gas molecules in the air, we selected HCHO, C2−, resulting in the formation of an electron depletion layer at the ZHS surface and the sample with a high resistance. When the sensor is placed in ammonia (NH3), O2− would oxide ammonia molecules, and then, captured electrons are released back to the sample surface. The electron depletion layer narrows, the resistance decreases, and the current increases.When the sensor is exposed to air, oxygen molecules capture electrons to form OThat means that the fabricated humidity sensor would work more stably in a high humidity environment.According to the above analysis of humidity-sensitive characteristics, the high sensitivity of the 16 wt% LiCl/ZHS humidity sensor mainly relies on the rich hydrophilic function groups on the material surface. Due to some hydrophilic functional groups (OH) on the surface of 16 wt% LiCl/ZHS, more water molecules can be adsorbed on the surface. Additionally, these water molecules can accelerate the dissociation ability of conductive ions, which has achieved the purpose of enhancing ion conduction. To better analyze the humidity-sensing mechanism, we tested the complex impedance spectrum (Cole–Cole diagram) of the 16 wt% LiCl/ZHS samples and fitted an equivalent circuit to study the electrical characteristics of the 16 wt% LiCl/ZHS sensor. The real part ReZ and the imaginary part ImZ of the device impedance were measured under different ambient humidity in the frequency range from 40 Hz to 100 kHz, as shown in w) is the impedance caused by diffusion, which usually occurs in the low-frequency band. The CIS curve of 11% RH and 33% RH displays a straight line approximately parallel to the Y-axis. The impedance of sensors is very large. A few water molecules would be chemisorbed at a low humidity environment on the active sites of the 16 wt% LiCl/ZHS surface to form hydroxyl groups. Protons are transferred from these surface hydroxyls to water molecules to form H3O+. At this time, the proton works as the major carrier to realize hopping conduction. Around 43–54% RH, the impedance decreases further. The curve is semicircular. With the increase in adsorbed water molecules, the impedance decreases continuously, the protons and water molecules bind together to form H3O+. At the same time, some Li+ are ionized from the 16 wt% LiCl/ZHS sample. Hence, both H3O+ and Li+ participate in the conduction. Hence, at low RH levels (<54% RH), the EC can be regarded as a parallel connection of capacitor Cf and resistor Rf in this situation, as shown in w. As the humidity increases further, more and more water molecules are adsorbed onto the surface, tending to form a liquid layer. H3O+ releases a proton to a neighboring water molecule in the liquid water layer, which receives it while releasing another proton. Protons can move freely in a continuous layer of liquid water known as the Gaussian conduction mechanism (H2O + H3O+ → H3O+ + H2O) [w in Based on the physical theory of electrolytes, we know that in the equivalent circuit (EC), the resistance represents the conducting process, the capacitance represents the polarization process, and the Warburg impedance (Z+ + H2O) . The Gro2O) w in .+ and Cl- also act as conduction carriers. At 95% RH, the CIS curve shows a semicircle and an upward tail. More and more water molecules are adsorbed at this time. The ion conduction of H3O+ and Li+ is further enhanced, resulting in a sharp reduction in the impedance. As a result, through the analysis of complex impedance spectrum at low and high humidity ambient, both proton and ionic conduction are found to exist in the humidity-sensing mechanism of the 16 wt% LiCl/ZHS sample.LiCl would dissolve in the formed liquid water layer, and the dissociated Li+ have a small radius and produce a large polarization force to attract electron-rich water molecules in oxygen atoms. The dopant LiCl dramatically improved the specific surface area of the pure ZHS sample and greatly enhanced the humidity-sensing response of the sensors. Among all the doping samples, the 16 wt% LiCl/ZHS exhibits a high sensitivity of about four orders of magnitude, the best linear correlation from 11–95% RH, a narrow humidity hysteresis of less than 9.5% RH, and a favorable response speed shorter than 10.2 s. According to Fourier infrared functional group analysis, the number of hydroxyl groups after aging is significantly reduced compared with that before aging. These hydroxyl groups contribute much to the adsorption of water molecules, which is highly consistent with the analysis of the ZHS crystal structure before and after aging. The complex impedance spectrum analysis reveals that the protons and introduced Li ions are the major conductive carriers. Protons and Li ions play a prominent role in low humidity and high environment, respectively. Both protons and Li ions work at a medium moisture ambience. These results demonstrate the superior performance of ZHS in effective humidity detection and the obvious improvement of humidity properties by LiCl doping.In conclusion, the synthesis and characterization of pure ZHS and LiCl/ZHS samples were explored. After that, sensors based on ZHS with different doping content were fabricated, and their humidity-sensing properties were measured. As a typical electrolyte material, Li


Despite significant evidence base on quantifying ecosystem services, the role of biodiversity in supporting such services in diversified landscapes, and how indigenous communities exploit, utilize and manage plant resources in a biocultural regime, remains understudied. This study examines the role of wild edible plants (WEPs) in meeting the food, nutrition and household income of indigenous communities under the biodiversity rich landscape of the Achanakmaar-Amarkantak Biosphere Reserve (AABR—22°15′ to 22°58′ N latitudes and 81°25′ to 82°5′ East longitudes) of Central India. Results revealed remarkable differences among Baiga, Gond, Kol, and Oraon ethnic communities and also location  effect on utilization pattern of wild edibles. A sum total of 172 WEPs comprising 60 vegetables, 70 fruits, seeds and nuts, 23 underground tubers and 19 mushrooms were collected, consumed, and surplus were marketed by the communities. On average, the number of wild edibles collected annually by households were in the following quantities: 40–240 kg leafy vegetables, 125–386 kg flowers, 120–250 kg fruits, 12–125 kg legumes, 24–120 kg tubers, 5–35 kg mushrooms. Among ethnic groups, the Baiga primitive community utilized 70–90% followed by Gonds (58–81%), Kols (52–78%), Oraons (43–79%), and other communities (38–68%) in different zones. WEPs have contributed to 5–24%  of household income, which was highest in the core zone and lowest in the transition zone. It was observed that WEPs were complemented the diets rather than being a substitute for staple foods. They supplied only 3.7–8.3% of energy and 1.1–4.9% protein requirements; however, they significantly supplemented ascorbic acid, thiamine, calcium, and iron by 38.1–73%, 13.7–35.4%, 17.2–29.1%, 2.6–13.5%, respectively. Significantly higher quantities of nutrients were supplemented in the core zone compared to other zones. WEPs were currently underutilized (less intake) especially in buffer and transition zones, complementing the staple foods and partially supplementing the essential macro- and micro-nutrients. However, these have the potential to fulfill the dietary needs and ensure balanced nutrition, if consumed in recommended portions and sizes. The paper discusses policy implications that ensure coherence and coordination of local indigenous communities for conservation and sustainable utilization of WEPs of AABR, Central India. Mainstreaming biodiversity and ecosystem services into food production systems involves strong trade-offs and is critical for balancing livelihoods, culture, habitability, and ecological diversity across heterogeneous landscapes. Biodiversity plays an indispensable role in the maintenance of ecosystem services interlinked to complex socio-economic and biocultural regimes of indigenous communities who have unique values, traditions, beliefs, and lifestyles ,2,3. WilIndia has one of the largest concentrations of indigenous people comprising ~104 million people represented by 705 ethnic groups among whom 75 are vulnerable tribal groups. These tribal groups derive multiple products and services from wild habitats ,17. The WEPs have become critical for the sustenance and household income of these groups; moreover, the lower returns from farms necessitate the diversification of income from the sale of WEPs. However, unscientific, concentrated, and over-exploitation of few species degenerating the native diversity of WEPs, while increasing rates of deforestation, epidemics of pests and forest fires in the last few years caused severe genetic erosion disrupting the cultural and traditional food habits resulting in an increase of the incidences of malnutrition and chronic diseases especially among the children and women of indigenous communities. Up until now, very little comprehensive work has been made on the diversity and utilization of WEPs; moreover, studies were concentrated on traditional knowledge for primary health care using herbal drugs in Central India ,22. NeveThe present investigations were carried out in AABR, the 8th biosphere reserve and declared as a natural heritage site by United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) in the year 2012. It lies between 22°15′ to 22°58′ North latitudes and 810 25′ N to 820 5′ East longitudes and spread over 383,551 ha, of which 68% area covered by Chhattisgarh and 32% by Madhya Pradesh . The bioNearly, 27 communities comprising Baiga, Gond, Dhanwar, Kol, Kanwar, Oraon, Chamar, Sais (Sarthi), Basore, Lonia, Muslim, Sindhi, Brahmin, Rajput, Goswami, Baraith, Kalar, Kumhar, Kewat, Nai, Ahir (Raut), Panika, Sondhiya, Lohar, Maratha, Sonar, and Baniya inhabit core and buffer zones of the biosphere. A sum total of 8168 traditional ethnic tribal inhabitants live in the villages of the core zone, mainly comprising Baiga, Gond, Kol, Pradhan, and Oraons are indigenous communities .The sample was obtained utilizing a stratified two-stage design. The villages were grouped into three strata  where each stratum represented a biosphere zone. In the first stage, three representative villages were selected from each of the strata considering demographic features, location, ethnicity, market avenues. Thus a total of nine villages (three from each zone) were selected for household surveys from three zones of the biosphere . A totalN (2168) denotes the population size i.e., total number of households in all the villages, Z (1.96) is the critical value of the normal distribution for rejecting a null hypothesis at 5% level of significance, p (0.5) is the estimated proportion and e (0.05) is the selected margin of error. Using the above expression, the minimum sample size required for the study is 327.Our study investigates the contribution of wild edible foods (WEF) to the income, energy and nutritional intake of households. A preliminary investigation by the investigators found that the weight of the proportional contribution of WEF in the intake of the households is about 0.5. This proportion is utilized to calculate the minimum sample size (of households) required for the present study. The following expression by Snedecor and Cochran  is utiliIn the second stage, households were sampled from each of the villages selected in the first stage. The probability proportion to size (PPS) method was utilized for the second stage sampling with household size as weight. The criterion was to obtain a sample of 20 or more households from each of the villages depending upon the feasibility as permitted by the terrain. In this process 332 households were selected. In each sample village, households were selected randomly among the communities.In addition to 332 households, 45 key informants , 9 focus group members (9 villages × 10 members/group and 30 market vendors (3 markets from each zone × 10 vendors/market) were also questioned to collect information on the list of species, diversity of collection, preparation of recipes, the order of preference and availability of wild edible plants and marketing pattern of WEPs.Information on qualitative data on collection and utilization of WEPs was obtained through participatory rural appraisal techniques (PRA), direct observation, semi-structured schedule, and key informant interviews. Assistance from local translators and forest department staff was also taken in gathering desired information as most of the female and old respondents were illiterate and conversed in the local tribal dialect. A semi-structured schedule with open-ended questions and a schedule for focus group discussion (FGD) was designed by the stakeholders and a team of experts. The methodology adopted for collecting quantitative information of WEPs are presented in the following section.The survey schedule comprises three parts, namely Part-I, Part-II and Part-III. Part-I of the schedule deals with the general socio-economic and demographic profile of the village and households. Part-II of the schedule consists of enquiries pertaining to provisioning services of WEPs, patterns of collection, utilization, sale and marketing pattern of WEPs. It also includes enquiries related to the knowledge of edible plants and their parts. Furthermore, the information on the habitat, the season, typical recipes used in cooking etc. was also collected in Part-II. The specimens of species were collected from the wild with the help of community members and identified. These were matching with records of local flora. The unidentified specimens were photographed and a herbarium was prepared. The unidentified specimens were later identified by expert taxonomists. Part-III of the schedule comprised the questions related to dietary habits, food consumption, and nutrient intake. Parts-I and II of the schedule were carried out in all the households in the sample.The investigators found that there was no organized marketing with specified market channels for wild edible plants and products. The commodities were traded in local weekly markets popularly known as hat markets. Marketability of wild edibles was studied in three local hat markets of Achanakmaar, Birjhakachar, and Shivtarai villages located in the core, buffer and transition zones respectively. The markets are operated mostly by middlemen and local vendors, who buy raw WEPs along with other commodities in bulk from collectors of indigenous communities at a nominal price on market days and sell them after bundling and washing with a significant margin of profits to local and non-local customers. A marketing survey was conducted in peak hours of the market between 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., where a total of 30 vendors (10 from each market) were interviewed to collect information on the trade of WEPs. The vendors in each of the hat were selected using a systematic sampling plan.The Part-III of the schedule was canvassed for a randomly selected subsample of 10 households from among the sample of households selected in the second stage. Food intake data were collected from the selected households representing different indigenous communities in each village by a 24 h recall method repetitively for 3 days each in summer, winter, and rainy seasons. Data were exclusively collected from the women and elderly members as they are involved in cooking and serving food to members of their respective households. The total weight of the prepared dish was recorded and the weight of each raw ingredient was calculated as a percentage of total cooked weight of the dish. The food consumed from conventional and wild edible sources was recorded separately for different food groups. The mean daily per capita intake of foods (average of household members) was recorded and compared with recommended national dietary standards of households  as prescribed by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), Government of India ,28,29. T2) was employed for parameters on frequency of collection, utilization and marketing pattern of wild edibles, while a t-test for food and nutrition intake was made to compare the significant differences in relation to location and also ethnicity (p < 0.05) [Descriptive statistics pertaining to the population , biosphere zone, number of households  and literacy are provided for each of the nine sampled villages. Data on the number and percentage of species and families of WEPs, as well as their life forms and the parts consumed were analyzed using descriptive analysis and frequency calculation techniques . The Chi < 0.05) . The meaThe population of studied villages ranged from 429 to 2244, of which 29% to 95% of people represented indigenous communities . The numThe WEPs resources were essentially categorized into five food categories according to the plant parts utilized by the respondents. A total of 172 WEPs comprising 60 leafy and shoot vegetables, 70 fruits, seeds and nuts, 23 underground tubers, 19 mushrooms. Most of these were consumed by communities and few edibles in demand were locally marketed for securing livelihood and household income a. The wiAmaranthus species were highly preferred and cooked as baajis are frequently found in traditional diets of all communities; however, frequency was higher in Baigas compared to other groups. The tender shoots of bamboos, locally known as Bans kareel, were highly preferred in local diets and soft shoots often directly eaten after roasting and young shoots cooked as a vegetable and also pickled during the rainy season besides the roasted kareel and shoot sold at 80–100 Rs./- in local markets in different zones of the biosphere. The fresh chutneys were also prepared using mint (Mentha arvensis L.) leaves and leaves of amari baji (Hibiscus sabdariffa L.) in combination with salt, peppers and spices. Leaves and floral parts of four species viz. Mentha arvensis L., Murraya koenigii Spreng, Eryngium foetidum L. and Phyllocephalum indicum K. Kirkman were used as spices to enhance the flavor and taste of traditional dishes by Baigas and Gonds. Based on the culinary value, taste and edible values, the 60 species of leafy vegetables were ranked where 11 and 24 were very high and highly preferred species among the communities, of which 25 species had good market value and locally sold in hat markets. Moreover, 18 species and 6 species were ranked as moderate to least preferred, which were consumed by households in core and buffer zones for their subsistence in times of food scarcity; however, these were seldom found in diets of transition zones, where many cultivated vegetables substitute low valued wild edibles. Fifty percent (50%) of the total wild leafy vegetables (60) were extracted during the rainy season followed by 25% in winter, 17% in summer, and 8% throughout the year, while 58% of these were used variously for religious, timber, non-timber and other edible purposes  is the most preferred and highly valued species, almost all parts of the tree including flowers, fruits and seeds were collected, consumed and marketed economically by communities. Flowers were eaten as raw and also made into chapatis and porridges by mixing with wheat, jowar, and rice flour. This is popular wine usually consumed by all the groups of indigenous communities regularly as the part of cultural heritage. Furthermore, it is also customary to serve liquor to people especially for enjoyment and entertainment during cultural festivals. It is also traditional to serve this drink during ceremonies of marriage, child birth, death, inauguration and opening of new houses, shops etc. The drink is also offered to gods or goddesses as part of the rituals and consumed as a sacred drink. The unripe fruits of Mahua are cooked as vegetables, while ripe ones were collected and seeds were recovered after removing pulp and kernels from Mahua seeds and dried to extract the oil, which is used as edible oil for cooking and occasionally for lighting purposes. Mango is another important fruit yielding species valued for its both ripe and unripe fruits as young unripe fruits were used in making chutney in summer, while the unripe fruits are peeled and dried to make amchoor, which is usually added in vegetable curries and dals to give a sour taste. The unripe mature fruits were boiled with water to prepare ampana as a drink to protect from dehydration during summer. The unripe fruits are also used in making mango pickles, while ripe fruits are directly eaten or juice is prepared and consumed along with rice/wheat chapattis. The leaves and shoots are used in rituals, religious functions and cultural festivals, symbolizing purity, prosperity and spiritual goodness. The mature fruits of Indian goose berry—aonla —were directly eaten, pickled and murabba prepared by mixing with syrups of sugar or jaggery, besides being used in rituals by communities, considered as a sacred tree. Another commercially important species is char (Buchanania lanzan Spreng.), where the ripe fruits are directly eaten and kernels extracted from seeds have immense commercial value mixed in sweet dishes and taken along with milk. Munga is another popular species, where young flowers are cooked as vegetables and pods also cooked as vegetables in combination with pulses and soya nuggets. Moreover, ripe fruits harvested from Diospyros melanoxylon Roxb. Tamarindus indica L., Aegle marmelos L. correa, Annona squamosa L. etc. were eaten as raw, which have immense potential for commercial exploitation making food and beverages. Of the 70 species, the products of 10 and 12 were very high to highly preferred, which were not only consumed but also sold in local markets due to their commercial value. A total of 25 and 23 of fruits were moderately and least preferred consumed in subsistence but not marketed, while 44 species offer diverse provisioning services, 9 species as religious and cultural, and 7 species provide timber and non-timber products to communities , honey, gums, dyes > tubers > mushrooms (The collection of wild edible plants by households was in the order: flowers > fruits > leaves > legumes and pods > other NTFP (non-timber forest product) , aonla , sitaphal (Annona squamosa L.), jamun (Syzygium cumini (L.) Skeels), mangoes (Mangifera indica L.), seeds of char (Buchanania lanzan Spreng) etc. were major contributors for household income, whereas the very highly preferred leafy vegetables such Amaranthus sp., Mushrooms  and tubers wild yams, bamboo shoots possessing good demand in local markets had also significantly contributed for household income. The price list of 71 WEP species commonly sold in local hat markets are summarized in Among the annual household income generated from the trading of WEPs, the sale of flowers and fruits alone contributed 60–70% (Rs 2700- Rs 8220/- 1 US$ = Rs 73) of household income across three zones of biosphere followed by mushrooms ), leafy vegetables  and tubers , and legumes and pods  a. The flThe communities derive household income from diverse sources including agriculture and allied sectors, labour and trade of wild edibles, and other NTFPs. The household annual income ranged from different sources ranged from 12,000 ± 1240 Rs. to 14,000 ± 1380 Rs., 7000 ± 840 Rs. to 24,000 ± 2460 Rs. and 3559 ± 840 Rs. to 26,400 ± 2840 in core, buffer, and transition zones, respectively b. It wasShorea robusta Roth.), tendu (Diospyros melanoxylon Roxb.) aonla , char (Buchanania lanzan Spreng) etc. also provide WEPs. On the other hand, the construction of minor dams, protected mining and expansion of roads has been recognized as not a major threat by communities  pattern revealed that, except for cereals, all other food items were consumed in lower quantities in comparison to recommended dietary allowances (RDA) prescribed by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), Government of India . The perThe per capita intake of macro- and micro-nutrients by indigenous communities was lower than recommended quantities . It was p ≤ 0.05) to supplementing micro- and macro-nutrients  were nationalized with a proper institutional arrangement of procurement by the state forest department. Numerous researchers have argued for the need to improve market facilities and support prices for smooth trading of a range of WEPs to avert the ongoing exploitation of indigenous communities by middlemen [The primary collectors in the study area are indigenous communities who sell their products to middlemen at nominal prices. Ahirwar et al.  while stiddlemen ,43.Mangifera indica L.), ber (Ziziphus jujuba Mill), bael (Aegle marmelos L. correa) lasorda (Cordia myxa L.), aonla , seethaphal (Annona squamosa L.), tendu (Diospyros melanoxylon Roxb.). wood apple (Limonia acidissima L.), char (Buchanania lanzan Spreng), karonda (Carissa carandas L.), imli  etc. shoots of bamboos, yams (Dioscoreas) thikhur (Curucuma angustifolia Roxb.), spices, mushrooms, etc have strong potential for processing and value addition.The study also revealed that wild edibles contributed to 5–24%  for annual household income  across three zones in AABR, Central India. Although the contribution of WEPs for income was significant but quite low, this could be increased through primary processing and value addition, which will not only augment economic returns but also enhance the shelf life of perishable commodities. A number of fruits and vegetables that were sold as raw in the markets at low prices could be easily processed in the form of pickles, chutney, jam, jelly, squash dried fruit, dried powder, dried seed, marmalade, etc. with minimum costs and ordinary skills. At least 20–30% of locally popular wild edible fruits such as mango (The food consumption (g/day) pattern revealed that diets of indigenous communities of AABR were purely cereal based, while the intake of pulses, vegetables, fruits, tubers, milk, meat, sugar, and fats were rather less than the recommended dietary allowances (RDA) prescribed by ICMR. The non-availability of foodstuffs in core and buffer zones or prevailing access to the public distribution system are the main causes of inadequate consumption below the recommended dietary allowances compared to transition zone. The scientific agriculture practices, marketing facilities, along with effective public distribution and better socio-economic conditions propmted the use of adequate quantities of conventional foods resulting in lesser dependency on WEPs in the transition zone. Moreover, people are changing their indigenous lifestyles and accepting the alternative sources of foods, gradually shifting from tradtional food habits. The divergent variations in dietary consumption and low intake of food-stuff were not uncommon, which had also been reported previously among indigenous communities in India ,48,49.Turning our attention to the pattern of consumption of foods and nutrients, it was evident that intake of macro and micro-nutrients by indigenous communities were less than desired allowances, as a consequence of lower consumption of recommended food groups, especially those that meet the requirement of proteins, vitamins, and mineral nutrients are lacking in their diets. Although WEPs especially leafy vegetables, legume pods, other vegetables, fruits, flowers, mushrooms, roots and tubers significantly supplemented the household food requirements in the core and buffer zone, these were still inadequate. Studies conducted in the past suggested that WEPs were important in native food systems and contribute to food and nutrition security of the poor ,6,8,50.Oxalis corniculata and Cassia obtusifolia are nutritionally rich in crude protein (20.2–22.3%), lipids (23–23.7%), and total sugars (4–12.1%). Nutrient-rich neglected WEPs could help transform food systems, if science and policy are well connected with better coordination among the diverse stakeholders working on conservation and sustainable utilization [Our study showed that the contribution of wild foods to total food consumption was rather low among indigenous communities of AABR.This has resulted as a consequence of intake of lower quantities of WEPs thus only meeting the partial requirements of micronutrients leaving a big deficit, which could be fulfilled by increasing their quantities in traditional diets in core and buffer zones. There is vast potential to exploit nutrient-rich underutilized WEPs in large quantities than the present level of consumption in AABR. Jain and Tiwari  emphasizlization ,23,52.The present study demonstrated the significant role and contribution of a wide array of WEPs (172) for meeting dietary needs and household income (5–12%) of indigenous communities, however, these have been largely underscored and have not received enough attention in government programs. WEPs and their products need to be promoted and incorporated into various nutritional and food supply schemes of the government comprehensively, especially under integrated women and child development programs, mid-day meals of schoolchildren, and a public distribution system for meeting diverse needs leading to the holistic development of indigenous communities. The National Food Security Act of Government of India, 2013 has included highly nutritious and climate resilient minor millets in the public distribution systems to benefit millions of schoolchildren and the wider population, and in a similar way the potential nutritious wild foods could be linked to these programme and fostered in habitats that are consumed along with staple foods in addressing the problems of undernourishment. There is an immense potential for bioprospecting of genetic resources of WEPs and traditional knowledge for developing herbal medicines, crop protection, cosmetics, horticulture, agricultural seeds, environmental monitoring, however the ethical consideration in fair and equitable sharing benefits to the indigenous communities are often neglected, undermined and that often create conflicts among stakeholders ,54,55.The collection of wild edibles viz. Buchanania lanzan Spreng., Emblica officinalis Gaertn., Terminalias, Syzygium cumini (L) Skeels, Ziziphus jujuba Mill., Cordia dichotoma G. Forst., Asparagus racemosus Willd., Dioscorea bulbifera L., Boswellia serrata Roxb., etc. were done by heavy lopping of branches, plucking twigs, removal of immature tubers, and sometimes even scarifying trees by felling. The unscientific and over-harvesting have been widely recognized as potential threats for eroding the diversity of WEPs along with other trade in AABR thus affecting the food and nutritional security of communities, which coloborate with the finding of the earlier studies ,38,42,52In-situ conservation of rare, endangered and threatened species like aonla , char (Buchanania lanzan Spreng.), lasooda (Cordia myxa L.), mahua (Madhuca indica J.F. Gmel.), tendu (Diospyros melanoxylon Roxb.) karaya (Sterculia urens Roxb.), salai (Boswellia serrata Roxb.) etc. needs to be promoted by planting species communities under various programmes. The payment to communities rendering services of conservation and restoration of degraded forests shall be ensured through REDD+ (Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation) and JFPM (Joint Forest Planning and Management) programmes. Domestication of WEPs in buffer and transition zones needs to be encouraged to ensure continued availability; thus, it would provide multiple benefits, promote their livelihoods and income [The past few decades has witnessed rapid degradation of native forests of AABR, Central India , lead tod income . The enc+ and MGNREGA  programmes. The management and promotion of WEPs systematically and sustainably would not only improve food and nutrtional security but also build socio-economic resilience and create novel opportunities for bioprospecting of potential resources. However, sensitive policies and programmes should be evolved to ensure fair and equitable sharing of benefits between communities of AABR and users of biological resources and indigenous knowledge.A total of 172 WEPs providing leafy vegetables, fruits, seeds, nuts, roots, shoots, rhizomes, tubers, mushrooms, etc. were utilized as a source of foods by indigenous communities across different zones of AABR, Central India. The study showed that people living in core and buffer areas of AABR mostly rely on wild edibles supplenenting the requirements of food and nutrition. Baiga, an underprivileged primitive community, possess more traditional knowledge on diverse uses of WEPs, thus exploiting comparatively a higher number of wild edibles for meeting household food and nutrtional needs. The study revealed that livelihoods and economy are intricately linked to traditions and values that are deeply rooted in the culture of Baigas, Gonds, Pradhans, Oraons, Kols of the AABR, while WEPs contributed significantly to the household incomes of these communities; however, the income levels were much lower in transition and buffer zones. The middlemen were key players, exploiting poor communities by procuring the valuable WEPs at nominal prices; therefore it is suggested to develop appropriate mechanisms and evolve institutional arrangements for marketing of WEPs at assured support prices at least for a range of popular commodities so that legitimate benefits could be realized. The processing and value addition of wild flowers, fruits, nuts, mushrooms, etc. needs to be promoted through cooperatives or self-help groups of communities that could not only increase quality, shelf life but also ensure higher income than current levels. The study also indicated that diets of indigenous communities were cereal-based, while the consumption of other commodities was in inadequate quantities, whereas WEPs were supplementing food, essential macro- and micro-nutrients. Nonetheless, the present levels of intake appear to be inadequate but they have potential to meet the total dietary needs if taken in recommended portions and sizes, which will not only add dietary diversity but also overcome the nutrient deficiencies especially in core and buffer zones, where both indigenous populations and WEPs are largely concentrated. The unscientific approach and overexploitation leading to degeneration of valuable wild edible fruit-yielding species like aonla, char, mahua, tendu, bohar etc. affect their frequency and abundance, therefore suitable management interventions were suggested to conserve the vulnerable species by involving the indigenous communities. Moreover, the illegal expansion of agriculture into forested landscapes also eroding the diversity of WEPs in AABR. The Forest Rights Act (2006) will provide a solution to permanent land tenure to communities and discourgae the evil practices affecting the abuandance and diversity of WEPs. In situ and ex situ conservation measures could help in regeneration and preservation of endangered and threatened species, which can ensure financial incentives to local stakeholder communities through JFPM, REDD


We report a novel graphene transfer technique for fabricating graphene field-effect transistors (FETs) that avoids detrimental organic contamination on a graphene surface. Instead of using an organic supporting film like poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) for graphene transfer, Au film is directly deposited on the as-grown graphene substrate. Graphene FETs fabricated using the established organic film transfer method are easily contaminated by organic residues, while Au film protects graphene channels from these contaminants. In addition, this method can also simplify the device fabrication process, as the Au film acts as an electrode. We successfully fabricated graphene FETs with a clean surface and improved electrical properties using this Au-assisted transfer method. T2/V·s . Utilizi2/V·s ,7, gas a2/V·s ,9, and t2/V·s ,11. Unfo2/V·s ,13, chem2/V·s , and che2/V·s ,16. Whil2/V·s , the ele2/V·s ,18. Thes2/V·s .2O and O2 and consequently p-doping of graphene [More recently, the incorporation of new catalysts and optimizations into the CVD process has allowed for the synthesis of single-crystal graphene that does not suffer from these problems ,21. Howegraphene ,23,24.2/Ar [Various processes are employed to eliminate this extrinsic factor. The most widely used method is vacuum thermal annealing at 300~400 °C in ambient H2/Ar ,26,27,282/Ar ,28,29,302/Ar ,29 or ph2/Ar . However2/Ar . While tIn this study, we propose a novel transfer method that resolves the drawbacks associated with conventional approaches. We completely avoid organic contamination by transferring graphene after a thin Au film was deposited on the graphene as-grown on a Cu substrate. As a noble metal, Au prevents any property changes to the graphene and can be easily etched using an ionic solvent. We transferred graphene onto the target substrate via this method and then analyzed its surface using Raman spectroscopy and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). We confirmed the removal of organic residues by evaluating the electrical properties of a graphene field-effect transistor (GFET) fabricated using the proposed method. Ultimately, we report the fabrication of a GFET with enhanced electrical properties and a clean graphene surface.4 (25 sccm) and H2 (10 sccm) gas at 1000 °C. After growth, the as-grown graphene layer on Cu foil was cut into two parts and used for following PMMA- and Au-assisted transfer. Au film (30 nm) was deposited on the as-grown graphene substrate by thermal evaporator or PMMA  was coated by spin coater for comparison. The backside graphene of Cu foil was removed by oxygen plasma treatment for 10 s at a power of 10 W. The Cu foil underlying the graphene layer was removed by floating on an aqueous solution of (NH4)2S2O8 for 1 h. Graphene supported on Au or PMMA layer was cleaned three times by floating on DI water for 30 min. Graphene was grown on Cu foils by CVD. After annealing a Cu foil at 1000 °C for 15 min, graphene was synthesized for 30 min with CH2 plasma etching and finally depositing a metal electrode (2/KI/H2O), and O2 reactive ion etching (RIE) to etch unwanted graphene. Finally, residue-free GFETs are fabricated through the chemical etching of Au film at the channel area Au film  images were acquired with a Park System NX10 using non-contact mode. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images were acquired with a JEOL JSM-6701F field emission scanning electron microscope (FESEM). Raman spectroscopy  with the wavelength of 532 nm (Ar-ion laser) was used to characterize the graphene on 300 nm SiO2/Si substrates using the Au-assisted and the PMMA-assisted methods. XPS in a wide area (beam diameter ~8 mm) can detect not only the C-C sp2 hybridized carbon of graphene layer but also sp3 carbon peaks caused by organic contamination on the graphene′s surface. Through this XPS analysis, the effects of the supporting film and the etchant used to remove the supporting film on the graphene surface were compared  was also calculated using the following Equation (1):w is the width of the Hall-bar-channel, d is the distance between the voltage leads x2 and x1, I is the current flowing between x2 and x1. Carrier density (sn) values can be obtained from Equation (2):Cox is gate oxide capacitance, and q is Coulomb unit charge. Based on these values, mobility can be obtained using Equation (3):To highlight the performance improvements by our proposed approach, we fabricated back-gated GFETs using PMMA-assisted and Au-assisted transfer methods. Previously, improvement of the contact resistance of graphene using Au assisted transfer similar to our approach . Howeverw) of our Hall-bar device was 5 µm, and the length between x2 and x1 was 20 µm. Devices were measured at room temperature with a high vacuum condition of 1 × 10−6 Torr. 2/Si substrate for each of PMMA and Au-transfer graphenes, we determined the distribution of sheet resistance at the Dirac point and the mobility distribution at sn = 3 × 1011 cm−2. While the average sheet resistance of the Au-transferred GFETs was 4300 ± 400 Ω/sq., PMMA-transferred GFETs had a higher sheet resistance of 8400 ± 3300 Ω/sq.  and G band (~1580 cm−1) in the Raman mapping image (I(D)/I(G) value indicates a higher defect density in the graphene area [I(D)/I(G) of our GFETs. Compared with the mapping image of the GFET transferred with Au, I(D)/I(G) values are non-uniform in the GFET transferred to PMMA. In addition, a distribution graph of I(D)/I(G) on graphene shows that the average I(D)/I(G) value is also larger in the GFET transferred with PMMA (Raman mapping of the graphene channels of the GFETs provided the most detailed analysis. The distribution of organic residue on the graphene surface can be characterized by the intensity ratio of D band (~1350 cmng image . In geneene area . PMMA-trene area , and theene area . Figure ith PMMA c.The channel map of the GFET fabricated using PMMA reflects a broad distribution of 2D position, while the channel map of the Au-using GFET is relatively uniform d–f. Addi2/V·s, which are much improved values than the characteristics of devices fabricated from PMMA-transferred graphene. This proposed Au-assisted approach for fabricating GFETs may have significant practical value in the development of graphene-based device applications.In this paper, we compared graphene transferred using Au and PMMA via XPS and Raman mapping. We also examined the electrical properties of back-gated GFETs fabricated with both methods. As a result, it was confirmed that the graphene transferred by the Au-assisted transfer has a cleaner and more uniform surface than the graphene transferred using the conventional organic supporting film. The electrical characteristics of the graphene transferred with PMMA and Au film were measured by fabricating Hall-bar type back-gated GFETs. The GFET fabricated using Au-transferred graphene exhibited an average sheet resistance of 4000 Ω/sq and average mobility of 4500 cm