bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Monitoring of Mycotoxins in Feed for Goats and Their Residues in Milk
Authors: Freitas Tatiana Emy de , Felicio Joana D’arc , Chiebao Daniela Pontes , Felicio Roberto Carlos , Gonçalez Edlayne
Published: November 2015

Aflatoxins are mainly produced by Aspergillus flavus and A. parasiticus, whereas A. flavus, under different conditions, also can produce cyclopiazonic acid (CPA). Several studies on mycotoxins in feed and cow milk have been reported, but the investigation of the co-occurrence of aflatoxins and CPA in feed and goat milk is an unprecedent study in Brazil. This study aimed to evaluate the presence of aflatoxins and cyclopiazonic acid in diets intended for dairy goats and their residues in milk in 10 familiar properties of Southwestern Sao Paulo region, totalizing 128 samples of feed and 120 samples of milk. Aflatoxins have been extracted and purified in an immunoaffinity column specific for aflatoxins B1 (AFB1), B2 (AFB2), G1 (AFG1) and G2 (AFG2) and aflatoxin M1 (AFM1). The analyses for detection and quantification of toxins were performed by high-performance liquid chromatography. From the analyses of the feeds, 2.34% of these were contaminated with aflatoxin at levels ranging from: 3.65 to 36.93 ug/kg for AFB1; 0.35 to 2.46 ug/kg for AFB2; trace to 46.06 ug/ kg for AFG1 and 0.61 to 1.65 ug/ kg for AFG2. One sample showed a concentration of 87.1 ug/kg, above that allowed by Brazilian law. Concerning CPA, 3.12% of the feed samples were positive for it at concentrations ranging from trace to 1.90 ug/kg. AFM1 and CPA were not detected in the milk samples. The results demonstrate that low contamination by mycotoxins in feeds and the absence of AFM1 and CPA in milk indicate best practices in the management and storage of these feeds.
Effect of Nitrite Substitution with Olive Leaves Extract on Color and Sensory Properties of Beef Mortadella
Authors: Marazzeq Khalid Al , Haddadin Malik , Abdullah Basem Al , Angor Malak
Published: November 2015

Six mortadella treatments were prepared for studying the effect of olive leaf extract (OLE) at a level of 240 mg OLE/100 g meat as nitrite alternative on the color and sensory characteristics. These treatments were: control with the addition of 120 ppm sodium nitrite only, and the second one with the addition of 240 mg OLE/100 g meat but without the addition of sodium nitrite as a negative control, the other four treatments were combination of 240 mg OLE/100 g meat with 80, 60, 40 and 20 ppm sodium nitrite, respectively. All samples were stored at 5 °C for 1, 3, 6, 9, and 12 weeks.

There were no significance differences (P > 0.05) between all mortadella treatments regarding their proximate parameters. Hunter lightness (L), redness (a), and yellowness (b) color, and sensory attributes including the appearance, color, tenderness, juiciness, flavor, and overall acceptability showed that 80 and 60 ppm nitrite in combination with OLE at 240 mg/100 g meat had the best results in comparison with the other four treatments indicating an additive combined effect of the OLE with nitrite that enhanced mortadella characteristics.

These results revealed the ability to substitute 50% of the used nitrite in mortadella stored at 5 °C when using combinations of 60 ppm nitrite with 240 mg OLE/100 g meat.
Competencies in Dairy Production Needed by Dairy Farmers of Kuku Cooperative Dairy Society in Khartoum State, Sudan
Authors: Ibnouf Mahmoad H. , Sheqwarah Maen N. , Sultan Kamel I.
Published: November 2015

The dairy farmers of Sudan are facing the lack of some competencies needed for improving the dairy productivity of their cattle. Therefore it is very important to study the farmers competencies in order to put plans for improving the farmers conditions and go for better productivity. The main objective of this study was to identify the competencies in dairy production of Kuku Cooperative Dairy Society (KCDS) in Khartoum State. A random sample of 81 dairy farmers was drawn from the total 162 members of KCDS. A questionnaire was carefully prepared that included a list of 8 understandings and 27 important abilities in the field of dairy production. A rating scale was provided with a 0 to 4 range of the abilities and understandings. The personal interviews with the farmers in the sample were conducted during January, 2013. The data was analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS). It was concluded that the dairy farmers need more competencies in dairy production. Some competencies need more emphasis than others. The dairy farmers felt that they possessed fewer competencies in dairy production than their actual need. Farmers indicated that they need more competence in areas related to calculating net farm income, selecting sires with high proofs and high repeatability, identifying mastitis problems and treating mastitic cows, recognizing symptoms of sick animals, following the vaccination program, the proper management and the adequacy of feeding calves and herd replacements, and the identification of common parasites.
Improving Maize Yield on Ferric Lixisol by NPK Fertilizer Use
Authors: Nurudeen Abdul Rahman , Tetteh F. M. , Fosu M. , Quansah G. W. , Osuman A. S.
Published: November 2015

The experiment was conducted to refined profitable NPK fertilizer rate for maize production on Tanchera series (Ferric Lixisol, FAO, 2006) in the Sudan savanna agro-ecological zone of Ghana. RCBD design with four replications was used. Treatments evaluated were N = 0, 40, 80, 120, 160; P = 0, 45, 90 and K = 0, 45, 90 kg/ha. Results showed significant N rate effect on grain yield, benefit cost ratio and gross return (P ≤ 0.01). P and K did not show significant effect among these parameters. Application of nitrogen from 80-120 kg/ha may be recommended for improve grain yield and gross return of maize production on Ferric lixisol. Due to poor nature of soils, application of P and K up to 45 kg/ha may also be recommended for maize production.
Development of Damage Assessment Method of Rice Crop for Agricultural Insurance Using Satellite Data
Authors: Hongo Chiharu , Tsuzawa Tomonobu , Tokui Kazuhisa , Tamura Eisaku
Published: November 2015

Goal is to develop new method utilizing satellite data for assessment of damage in paddy field which can contribute toward substantial reduction of the damage assessment time and costs in framework of agricultural insurance. For the damage assessment, estimation of yield in each paddy plot is a key, so the research on the estimation of rice yeild was carried out using satellite data in Hokkaido, Japan. Both multiple linear regression analysis and the projection pursuit regression analysis were conducted for the estimation of yeild using data from 3 different satellites about 3 different rice varieties. As the result, the projection pursuit regression analysis showed smaller value of predictive error than that of the multiple linear regression analysis, and the lowest predictive error was indicated when SPOT5 data with 10 m resolution was used. Moreover, for reducing the predictive error, it was found that a yield estimation formula should be created for each of different rice varieties. The results out of this research suggest that satellite data can be effectively used for estimation of yield and also assessment of damage at lower costs to calculate indemnity in agricultural insurance.
Kenaf (Hibiscus cannabinus L.) Impact on Post-Germination Seedling Growth
Authors: Webber III Charles L. , White Jr Paul M. , Myers Dwight L. , Shrefler James W. , Taylor Merritt J.
Published: November 2015

The chemical interaction between plants, which is referred to as allelopathy, may result in the inhibition of plant growth and development. The objective of this research was to determine the impact of kenaf (Hibiscus cannabinus L.) plant extracts on the post-germination growth of five plant species. Four concentrations (0, 16.7, 33.3 and 66.7 g/L) of kenaf bark, core, and leaf extracts were applied to the germinated seeds of redroot pigweed (Amaranthus retroflexus L.), green bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.), tomato (Solanum lycopersicum Mill.), cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.), and Italian ryegrass (Lolium multiflorum Lam.). After 7 days, the developing seedlings were measured to determine the length of their hypocotyls (mm) and radicles (mm), and the number of hair roots. Tomato, Italian ryegrass, and redroot pigweed followed similar negative trends in their responses to the extract source (kenaf bark, core, and leaves) and the impact of extract concentration, whereas, cucumber had a mixed response and green bean reacted positively to the kenaf extracts. Tomato was the most sensitive species tested across all kenaf extracts and concentrations, resulting in decreased hypocotyl, radicle, and root growth. Green bean exhibited no negative effects due to the kenaf extracts, but actually produced increased hypocotyl growth as a result of the kenaf bark, core, and leaf extracts. The kenaf extracts resulted in a mixed response for cucumber. The kenaf leaf and bark extract decreased cucumber radicle growth, whereas, the bark and core extracts increased hypocotyl growth. Italian ryegrass hypocotyl growth decreased across all extract sources (bark, core, and leaf), while the leaf extract also reduced root growth. All kenaf extracts reduced redroot pigweed radicle growth, while the core and leaf extracts reduced hypocotyl growth. The research demonstrated that kenaf leaf extracts were the most allelopathic and the hypocotyls were the most sensitive. Future research should isolate the chemicals responsible for both the negative and positive allelopathic impact on the various plant species, determine if the extracts will influence more mature plants, and pursue cultural practices to utilize these natural allelopathic materials to benefit crop production and limit weed competition.
The Effect of Smartphone Video Camera as a Tool to Create Gigital Stories for English Learning Purposes
Authors: Gromik Nicolas A.
Published: November 2015

The integration of smartphones in the language learning environment is gaining research interest. However, using a smartphone to learn to speak spontaneously has received little attention. The emergence of smartphone technology and its video recording feature are recognised as suitable learning tools. This paper reports on a case study conducted with 67 English as Foreign Language undergraduate students at Tohoku University, Japan. Students were encouraged to use their smartphone video recording feature to produce one 30-second video per week over a 12-week period addressing a teacher-selected theme. The results indicate that students were able to produce video digital stories to express their opinion regarding the teacher-selected themes, in the target language. The implications for teaching and learning clearly indicate that smartphone-based video storytelling is a relevant task for language learners who will have to become conversant with this medium of learning.
THE INVARIATOR DESIGN: AN UPDATE
Authors: Cruz-Orive Luis Manuel , Gual-Arnau Ximo
Published: November 2015

The invariator is a method to generate a test line within an isotropically oriented plane through a fixed point, in such a way that the test line is effectively motion invariant in three dimensional space. Generalizations exist for non Euclidean spaces. The invariator design is convenient to estimate surface area and volume simultaneously. In recent years a number of new results have appeared which call for an updated survey. We include two new estimators, namely the a posteriori weighting estimator for surface area and volume, and the peak-and-valley formula for surface area.
Synopsis of Bradepyris Kieffer, 1905 (Hymenoptera, Bethylidae, Mesitiinae)
Authors: Barbosa Diego N. , Azevedo Celso O.
Published: November 2015

Two new junior synonyms, Pseudomesitius Duchaussoy, 1916 syn. nov. and Triglenus Marshall, 1905 syn. nov., for the genus Bradepyris Kieffer, 1905 are proposed and a new diagnosis for the genus is given. Two new species (based on males) from the Saharo-Arabian region are here described: Bradepyris jordanicus, sp. nov. and B. baleariensis, sp. nov. A brief revision, with a key to the males and females of all species of this genus, and the first male genitalia descriptions are also provided.
Vers une orientation translittéracique des modèles d’information Literacy?
Authors: Aillerie Karine
Published: November 2015

Cette contribution vise à interroger les évolutions possibles des modèles « prescriptifs » de la recherche d’information au vu des apports conceptuels de la notion de translittératie au champ de l’information literacy. Y sont abordées les transformations des référentiels de maîtrise de l’information traditionnels ainsi que deux propositions inédites : le modèle américain Metaliteracy et le modèle anglais InFlow (information flow). Ces deux modèles ne se revendiquent pas explicitement de l’approche translittératique même si des points de jonction forts peuvent être repérés qui renouvellent en profondeur les dispositifs de formation à l’information ainsi que l’arrière-plan théorique qui les sous-tend.
Soutenir l’apprentissage d’étudiants ayant un trouble d’apprentissage au collégial : le cas d’une recherche-action-formation
Authors: Bergeron Geneviève , Marchand Sonia
Published: November 2015

Cet article s’appuie sur les résultats d’une recherche-action-formation (RAF) menée dans un établissement d’enseignement collégial privé. De 2011 à 2013, une communauté d’apprentissage est constituée afin de soutenir les enseignants relativement à un défi récent, celui de l’enseignement aux étudiants ayant un trouble d’apprentissage (ETA). Inspirés du modèle social du handicap, les participants analysent leurs pratiques en relation avec les besoins des ETA pour ensuite mettre à l’essai différentes pratiques pédagogiques susceptibles de favoriser leur apprentissage. Deux éléments constitutifs des résultats sont présentés. Le premier concerne la problématique générale de l’enseignement aux ETA en contexte collégial; les données recueillies contribuent à un enrichissement de la compréhension du vécu des enseignants. Le deuxième fait état des obstacles à l’apprentissage identifiés ainsi que des pratiques pédagogiques mises à l’essai. La discussion met en évidence des pistes de formation prometteuses afin de soutenir les efforts des enseignants.
Effet du Programme BETA-PUCV portant sur la conduite prosociale et sur la responsabilité sociale de ses participants : une analyse par régression sur discontinuité
Authors: Carreño Martínez Rodrigo H. , Pelletier Denise
Published: November 2015

Cet article présente les résultats d’une recherche réalisée auprès d’étudiants ayant des aptitudes élevées qui participent depuis trois ans au programme de formation extracurriculaire appelé BETA-PUCV (Université pontificale catholique de Valparaiso/Pontificia Universidad Católicade Valparaíso, Chili) dont l’objectif est de connaître l’impact de cette intervention sur leur conduite prosociale. Pour ce faire, deux épreuves ont été administrées dont les résultats ont été analysés par le biais d’un modèle de régression sur discontinuité. Ces résultats n’ont pas permis d’établir qu’il existe des modèles de conduite prosociale (CPS) et de responsabilité sociale (RS) qui soient différents de ceux d’étudiants ayant des aptitudes similaires et ne participant pas à ce programme1.
Real-time temperature monitoring of Si substrate during plasma processing and its heat-flux analysis
Authors: Tsutsumi Takayoshi , Ishikawa Kenji , Takeda Keigo , Kondo Hiroki , Ohta Takayuki , Ito Masafumi , Sekine Makoto , Hori Masaru
Published: November 2015

Actual Si wafer temperatures during plasma etching processes were temporally measured using a real-time wafer-temperature monitoring system with autocorrelation-type frequency-domain low-coherence interferometry. Indeed, the Si wafer temperature, which was 20 °C before the process, rapidly increased in 10 s. Then, the temperature rise gradually slowed, but continued to increase and reached 45 °C after 600 s. This can be due to the fact that there exists a heat source for the wafer other than the plasma. Reasonably, the Si wafer was found to be sensitive to the temperature of the disk covering the area around the wafer, i.e., the focus ring. Usually, the temperature of the focus ring is not controlled and causes the radial distribution of Si wafer temperature. Consequently, the Si wafer temperature should be controlled with the temperature increase of other heat sources, especially the focus ring.
High voltage trapping effects in GaN-based metal–insulator–semiconductor transistors
Authors: Meneghesso Gaudenzio , Meneghini Matteo , Silvestri Riccardo , Vanmeerbeek Piet , Moens Peter , Zanoni Enrico
Published: November 2015

This paper presents an analysis of the high voltage trapping processes that take place in high-electron mobility transistors based on GaN, with a metal–insulator–semiconductor (MIS) structure. The study is based on combined pulsed and transient measurements, carried out with trapping voltages in the range from 50 to 500 V. The results indicate that: (i) dynamic R
on is maximum for trapping voltages between 200 and 300 V, and decreases for higher voltage levels; (ii) R
on-transient measurements reveal the presence of a dominant trap with activation energy E
a1 = 0.93 eV and of a second trap with activation energy equal to E
a2 = 0.61 eV; (iii) the deep level transient spectroscopy (DLTS) signal associated to trap E
a1 is completely suppressed for high trapping voltages (V
DS = 500 V). The results are interpreted by considering that the trap E
a1 is located in the buffer, and originates from CN defects. The exposure to high drain voltages may favor the depletion of such traps, due to a field-assisted de-trapping process or to the presence of vertical leakage paths.
Detection of diabetic macular oedema: validation of optical coherence tomography using both foveal thickness and intraretinal fluid
Authors: Hernández-Martínez Carmen , Palazón-Bru Antonio , Azrak Cesar , Navarro-Navarro Aída , Baeza-Díaz Manuel Vicente , Martínez-Toldos José Juan , Gil-Guillén Vicente Francisco
Published: November 2015

No studies have yet evaluated jointly central foveal thickness (CFT) and the presence of intraretinal fluid (PIF) to diagnose diabetic macular oedema (DMO) using optic coherence tomography (OCT). We performed a cross-sectional observational study to validate OCT for the diagnosis of DMO using both CFT and PIF assessed by OCT (3D OCT-1 Maestro). A sample of 277 eyes from primary care diabetic patients was assessed in a Spanish region in 2014. Outcome: DMO diagnosed by stereoscopic mydriatic fundoscopy. OCT was used to measure CFT and PIF. A binary logistic regression model was constructed to predict the outcome using CFT and PIF. The area under the ROC curve (AUC) of the model was calculated and non-linear equations used to determine which CFT values had a high probability of the outcome (positive test), distinguishing between the presence or absence of PIF. Calculations were made of the sensitivity, specificity, and the positive (PLR) and negative (NLR) likelihood ratios. The model was validated using bootstrapping methodology. A total of 37 eyes had DMO. AUC: 0.88. Positive test: CFT ≥90 µm plus PIF (≥310 µm if no PIF). Clinical parameters: sensitivity, 0.83; specificity, 0.89; PLR, 7.34; NLR, 0.19. The parameters in the validation were similar. In conclusion, combining PIF and CFT provided a tool to very precisely discriminate the presence of DMO. Similar studies are needed to provide greater scientific evidence for the use of PIF in the diagnosis of DMO.
Non‐Invasive Quality Control of Organoid Cultures Using Mesofluidic CSTR Bioreactors and High‐Content Imaging
Authors: Charles Seleipiri , Jackson‐Holmes Emily , Sun Gongchen , Zhou Ying , Siciliano Benjamin , Niu Weibo , Han Haejun , Nikitina Arina , Kemp Melissa L. , Wen Zhexing , Lu Hang
Published: August 2024

Human brain organoids produce anatomically relevant cellular structures and recapitulate key aspects of in vivo brain function, which holds great potential to model neurological diseases and screen therapeutics. However, the long growth time of 3D systems complicates the culturing of brain organoids and results in heterogeneity across samples hampering their applications. An integrated platform is developed to enable robust and long‐term culturing of 3D brain organoids. A mesofluidic bioreactor device is designed based on a reaction‐diffusion scaling theory, which achieves robust media exchange for sufficient nutrient delivery in long‐term culture. This device is integrated with longitudinal tracking and machine learning‐based classification tools to enable non‐invasive quality control of live organoids. This integrated platform allows for sample pre‐selection for downstream molecular analysis. Transcriptome analyses of organoids revealed that the mesofluidic bioreactor promoted organoid development while reducing cell death. This platform thus offers a generalizable tool to establish reproducible culture standards for 3D cellular systems for a variety of applications beyond brain organoids.
Advancements and Applications of Diffractive Optical Elements in Contemporary Optics: A Comprehensive Overview
Authors: Khonina Svetlana N. , Kazanskiy Nikolay L. , Skidanov Roman V. , Butt Muhammad A.
Published: August 2024

Diffractive optical elements (DOEs) represent a revolutionary advancement in modern optics, offering unparalleled versatility and efficiency in various applications. Their significance lies in their ability to manipulate light waves with intricate patterns, enabling functionalities beyond what traditional refractive optics can achieve. DOEs find widespread use in fields such as laser beam shaping, holography, optical communications, and imaging systems. By precisely controlling the phase and amplitude of light, DOEs can generate complex optical structures, correct aberrations, and enhance the performance of optical systems. Moreover, their compact size, lightweight nature, and potential for mass production make them indispensable in designing compact and efficient optical devices for diverse industrial and scientific applications. From improving the performance of laser systems to enabling innovative display technologies, DOEs continue to drive advancements in modern optics, promising even more exciting possibilities in the future. In this review, the critical importance of DOEs is illuminated and explore their profound implications in the contemporary era.
Killing Three Birds with One Stone: Energy Transfer Inducing Efficient, Zero Thermal Quenching, and Emission‐Color Tunable Phosphors
Authors: Tang Jiali , Zhang Xinyu , Liao Shuzhen , Zhu Yunfei , Han Yue , Su Hui , Qiu Zhongxian , Lian Shixun , Zhang Jilin
Published: August 2024

Red emission phosphors with high efficiency and excellent thermal stability are essential for phosphor‐converted light‐emitting diodes (pc‐LEDs). Na2MgPO4F: Mn2+ shows a very weak red emission peak at 615 nm due to 3d–3d forbidden transition. And it exhibits a normal thermal quenching behavior. Blue‐emitting Eu2+ with anti‐thermal quenching (ATQ) is introduced to tune the emission color, emission efficiency, and thermal stability of Mn2+ in Na2MgPO4F. The emission color of Na2MgPO4F: Eu2+, Mn2+ phosphors can be tuned by increasing the Mn2+ content. The internal and external quantum efficiencies of Na2MgPO4F:0.03Eu2+, 0.05Mn2+ are 89.3% and 41.1%, respectively, which are much higher than those of the Mn2+‐doped ones. Furthermore, the ATQ effect of Eu2+ is also transferred to Mn2+ via energy transfer, which results in Na2MgPO4F: Eu2+, Mn2+ phosphors with zero thermal quenching (ZTQ). The cooperation of energy transfer, enhanced absorption, and increased defects amount promotes the achievement of ZTQ in the co‐doped samples. Two white pc‐LEDs with a color rendering index of more than 90 are manufactured by using the as‐synthesized Na2MgPO4F: Eu2+, Mn2+ phosphors combined with near‐UV chips. This study not only provides high‐performance Eu2+, Mn2+ co‐doped phosphors suitable for high‐quality solid‐state lighting, but also exhibits a killing‐three‐birds‐with‐one‐stone strategy to obtain efficient, thermally stable, and color‐tunable phosphors.
PRKAG2‐Related Lethal Congenital Glycogen Storage Disease of the Heart as Rare Cause of Fetal Hydrops With Bradycardia and Cardiomyopathy: Clinical Report and Literature Review
Authors: White‐Brown Alexandre M. , Richard Marilyn , Morency Anne‐Maude , Maedler‐Kron Chelsea , De Bie Isabelle
Published: August 2024

Nonimmune foetal hydrops is a prenatal condition associated with significant perinatal mortality. It has so far been associated with over 200 chromosomal and monogenic conditions, most frequently chromosomal aneuploidies and RASopathies. Thorough clinical phenotyping and genetic evaluation are essential to determine the underlying etiology of this clinical entity and guide obstetrical and postnatal management. In this report, we describe the prenatal presentation and postnatal outcome of a pregnancy with Lethal Congenital Glycogen Storage Disease of the Heart, a rare autosomal dominant non lysosomal cardiac glycogenosis caused by a novel de novo likely pathogenic variant in the Protein Kinase AMP‐Activated Non‐Catalytic Subunit Gamma 2 (PRKAG2) gene, [NM_016203.3:c.1150A > G, p.(Arg384Gly)]. To this day, only six other molecularly confirmed prenatal presentations of this condition have been reported. This clinical report adds to the knowledge on the prenatal features, clinical evolution, molecular diagnosis and pathological findings of this disorder and underlines the clinical utility of comprehensive molecular testing in the investigation of nonimmune foetal hydrops and fetal cardiomyopathy.
Bridging the gap: Multi‐omics profiling of brain tissue in Alzheimer's disease and older controls in multi‐ethnic populations
Authors: Reddy Joseph S. , Heath Laura , Linden Abby Vander , Allen Mariet , Lopes Katia de Paiva , Seifar Fatemeh , Wang Erming , Ma Yiyi , Poehlman William L. , Quicksall Zachary S. , Runnels Alexi , Wang Yanling , Duong Duc M. , Yin Luming , Xu Kaiming , Modeste Erica S. , Shantaraman Anantharaman , Dammer Eric B. , Ping Lingyan , Oatman Stephanie R. , Scanlan Jo , Ho Charlotte , Carrasquillo Minerva M. , Atik Merve , Yepez Geovanna , Mitchell Adriana O. , Nguyen Thuy T. , Chen Xianfeng , Marquez David X. , Reddy Hasini , Xiao Harrison , Seshadri Sudha , Mayeux Richard , Prokop Stefan , Lee Edward B. , Serrano Geidy E. , Beach Thomas G. , Teich Andrew F. , Haroutunian Varham , Fox Edward J. , Gearing Marla , Wingo Aliza , Wingo Thomas , Lah James J. , Levey Allan I. , Dickson Dennis W. , Barnes Lisa L. , De Jager Philip , Zhang Bin , Bennett David , Seyfried Nicholas T. , Greenwood Anna K. , Ertekin‐Taner Nilüfer
Published: August 2024

INTRODUCTION

Multi‐omics studies in Alzheimer's disease (AD) revealed many potential disease pathways and therapeutic targets. Despite their promise of precision medicine, these studies lacked Black Americans (BA) and Latin Americans (LA), who are disproportionately affected by AD.

METHODS

To bridge this gap, Accelerating Medicines Partnership in Alzheimer's Disease (AMP‐AD) expanded brain multi‐omics profiling to multi‐ethnic donors.

RESULTS

We generated multi‐omics data and curated and harmonized phenotypic data from BA (n = 306), LA (n = 326), or BA and LA (n = 4) brain donors plus non‐Hispanic White (n = 252) and other (n = 20) ethnic groups, to establish a foundational dataset enriched for BA and LA participants. This study describes the data available to the research community, including transcriptome from three brain regions, whole genome sequence, and proteome measures.

DISCUSSION

The inclusion of traditionally underrepresented groups in multi‐omics studies is essential to discovering the full spectrum of precision medicine targets that will be pertinent to all populations affected with AD.

Highlights

Accelerating Medicines Partnership in Alzheimer's Disease Diversity Initiative led brain tissue profiling in multi‐ethnic populations.

Brain multi‐omics data is generated from Black American, Latin American, and non‐Hispanic White donors.

RNA, whole genome sequencing and tandem mass tag proteomicsis completed and shared.

Multiple brain regions including caudate, temporal and dorsolateral prefrontal cortex were profiled.
Mirror‐Image Random Nonstandard Peptides Integrated Discovery (MI‐RaPID) Technology Yields Highly Stable and Selective Macrocyclic Peptide Inhibitors for Matrix Metallopeptidase 7
Authors: Ghareeb Hiba , Yi Li Choi , Shenoy Anjana , Rotenberg Naama , Shifman Julia M. , Katoh Takayuki , Sagi Irit , Suga Hiroaki , Metanis Norman
Published: August 2024

Matrix metallopeptidase 7 (MMP7) plays a crucial role in cancer metastasis and progression, making it an attractive target for therapeutic development. However, the development of selective MMP7 inhibitors is challenging due to the conservation of active sites across various matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs). Here, we have developed mirror‐image random nonstandard peptides integrated discovery (MI‐RaPID) technology to discover innate protease‐resistant macrocyclic peptides that specifically bind to and inhibit human MMP7. One identified macrocyclic peptide against D‐MMP7, termed D20, was synthesized in its mirror‐image form, D’20, consisting of 12 D‐amino acids, one cyclic β‐amino acid, and a thioether bond. Notably, it potently inhibited MMP7 with an IC50 value of 90 nM, and showed excellent selectivity over other MMPs with similar substrate specificity. Moreover, D’20 inhibited the migration of pancreatic cell line CFPAC‐1, but had no effect on the cell proliferation and viability. D’20 exhibited excellent stability in human serum, as well as in simulated gastric and intestinal fluids. This study highlights that MI‐RaPID technology can serve as a powerful tool to develop in vivo stable macrocyclic peptides for therapeutic applications.
Sternal haematoma infusion catheter: a novel technique for pain management in manubriosternal fractures in the emergency department
Authors: Frowde K. , Naeem S. , Alzarrad A. , Abdel‐Aziz D. , Schofield O.W.
Published: August 2024

Sternal fractures are associated with significant morbidity and mortality, with some patients requiring admission for pain management, often through systemic analgesia, which may be ineffective. Regional anaesthetic techniques are more challenging for sternal fractures than rib fractures and require experienced clinicians. Local anaesthetic techniques are becoming recognised as a modality to improve pain control and to reduce complications from opioid use, especially in the elderly. We delivered local anaesthetic via a sternal haematoma infusion catheter for an elderly patient with uncontrolled pain despite the provision of intravenous patient‐controlled analgesia. This technique enabled an improvement in pain scores, better engagement with physiotherapy and reduced opioid use. Local anaesthesia has been used previously to manage pain after coronary artery bypass graft surgery. Our experience demonstrated the safety, efficacy and tolerability of this approach to analgesia in sternal fractures.
Unveiling the Synergistic Role of Ferroelectric Polarization and Z‐Scheme Heterojunction in Bi2Fe4O9/Carbon‐Deficient g‐C3N4 for Enhanced Methylene Blue Degradation Efficiency
Authors: Liang Xing , Jiang Guojian , Huang Chugeng , Xiong Zizhou , Wu Xiongjun
Published: August 2024

Enhancing the efficiency of charge carrier separation is crucial for improving the performance of photocatalysts, thereby offering more effective solutions to energy and environmental pollution challenges. In this study, a carbon‐deficient ultra‐thin porous g‐C3N4 (Vc‐UPCN) was synthesized and subsequently was integrated with Bi2Fe4O9 (BFO) using a sonochemical self‐assembly technique, a Bi2Fe4O9/Vc‐UPCN (BC) photocatalyst featuring a Z‐scheme heterojunction. The BC catalyst was subjected to corona poling treatment to obtain BCp, which possesses an intrinsic electric field. Compared with pure BFO and Vc‐UPCN, the BC heterojunction exhibited higher photo‐generated electron–hole separation efficiency and photodegradation ability. Upon introduction of corona polarization, the photocatalytic performance of BC was further enhanced. Specifically, BCp‐15 (BFO/BC mass fraction = 15) achieved complete degradation of methylene blue (MB) within 30 min. BCp‐15 demonstrated that its degradation efficiency for MB was 1.28 times higher than that of BC‐15, 1.85 times higher than that of Vc‐UPCN, and impressive 7.69 times higher than that of pure BFO. The coupling effect of the heterojunction and ferroelectric polarization significantly improved the separation efficiency of photo‐generated carriers in BCp. This study is expected to provide a reference for the synergistic application of heterojunction and ferroelectric polarization in traditional semiconductor photocatalysis.
A Review on Synthesis and Biological Activities of 2‐Aminophenol‐Based Schiff Bases and Their Transition Metal Complexes
Authors: Rana Md. Sohel , Islam Md. Azharul , Islam Md. Shohidul , Sarafi Md. Shaharul , Kudrat‐E‐Zahan Md. , Hossen Md. Faruk , Asraf Md. Ali
Published: August 2024

2‐Aminophenol‐based Schiff bases and their metal complexes have drawn a lot of interest because of their wide range of biological activity and their uses in several fields. These Schiff bases are synthesized through the condensation of 2‐aminophenol and various carbonyl compounds, and metal complexes formed easily by coordinating Schiff bases with transition metal ions possess a wide range of intriguing properties that have rendered them promising candidates in biomedical research. These compounds have a diverse array of captivating biological properties including antibacterial, antifungal, anticancer, and antioxidant actions. Their versatile nature and potential for tailored modifications hold the promise for innovative biomedical applications. Compared to standard antibiotics and other studied compounds, C2, C8–C11, and C116 complexes, along with L16 and L17 ligands, exhibit the highest antibacterial activity, while C3 and C115 complexes demonstrate the highest antifungal activity. The metal chelate formation of the ligands enhanced the antimicrobial activity by increasing their lipophilic nature. C66, C76, and C112 complexes and L39 ligand showed higher anticancer activity than standard anticancer drugs. The metal complexes have higher anticancer activity than the ligand due to improved permeability and cellular uptake. The anticancer activity of the complexes is related to the substituents of the Schiff base ligands. In compounds containing an electron‐withdrawing group (e.g., Cl or Br or NO2), the activity is obviously better than others. Ligands L1–L3 and L5, L6, and L32 demonstrated the most potent antioxidant activity, surpassing both metal complexes and standard conventional antioxidants. The ligands showed greater antioxidant activity than the metal complexes due to their capability of donating free protons to scavenge free radicals. More study is needed to fully explore the potential of 2‐aminophenol‐based Schiff bases and their transition metal complexes for the development of new drugs. This review summarizes different synthetic methods, biological activities, and the structure–activity relationship. This study aims to conduct further research on 2‐aminophenol‐based Schiff bases and their metal complexes.
Experimental study on the cushioning energy absorption characteristics of polymer materials resistant to seawater erosion in seismic damping layers
Authors: Shi Kunming , Guo Chengchao , Sun Bo
Published: August 2024

Polymer materials exhibit vibration damping properties, yet scant research exists on their applicability to submarine tunnels. This study investigates the dynamic characteristics of Polymer Materials Resistant to Seawater Erosion (hereafter referred to as PMRSE) under varying conditions of density, confining pressure, strain rate, and erosion duration through dynamic triaxial tests. The results reveal an increase in material strength with a rise in density; enhanced strength and ductility with increasing confining pressure; and augmented strength and yield stress in correspondence with heightened strain rates. As confining pressure ascends, the equivalent damping ratio of PMRSE gradually diminishes. SEM and EDS indicate a porous structure for PMRSE, with a molded surface skin formed post‐manufacturing to thwart seawater erosion. The strain energy storage and energy absorption evaluation of PMRSE demonstrate its excellence as an energy‐absorbing material. Eventually, employing a numerical simulation model for a specific submarine tunnel reveals that the presence of a damping layer absorbs seismic energy and enhances the stress conditions of the secondary lining. PMRSE manifests as a strain‐rate sensitive material unaffected by seawater corrosion, which exhibits deformation characteristics of low yield strength and long yield stage. Accordingly, PMRSE proves suitable for vibration damping in submarine tunnels.
Donor‐Acceptor‐Donor Dyads with Electron‐Rich π‐Extended Azahelicenes to Panchromatic Absorbing Dyes
Authors: Hiroto Satoru , Chujo Moeko
Published: August 2024

Panchromatic dyes have been highly useful in the realm of optical devices. Here, we report that panchromatic dyes with heterohelicenes have been successfully synthesized using a donor‐acceptor strategy. Our synthesis resulted in the creation of π‐extended aza[5]helicene oligomers with butadiyne linkages, which displayed bathochromically shifted absorption and emission spectra. The solvent‐dependent optical measurements revealed the intramolecular charge transfer characteristic of these molecules, and theoretical calculations described the biased molecular orbitals on the azahelicene units that generated the charge‐transfer characteristic. Encouraged by these results, we also prepared donor‐acceptor‐donor dyads using azahelicenes and dimide derivatives, resulting in panchromatic absorbing characteristics covering the range from 250 nm to 800 nm. Theoretical calculations showed the presence of mixed charge‐transfer transitions and localized transitions on the azahelicene units, which led to a broad light‐absorbing property covering the near IR region. Additionally, we conducted measurements of circular dichroism and circularly polarized luminescence for the obtained products. The g‐values were reduced by oligomerization, indicating that the lowest energy transitions were allowed in nature.
An evaluation of convergent intraverbal instruction on tacts of features, function, or class
Authors: Brown Alexandria , Cariveau Tom , Lewis Taylor K. , Ellington Paige
Published: August 2024

Educators and parents are encouraged to arrange language‐rich environments, which provide children with exposure to language that is diverse in form and function and with repeated opportunities to emit verbal responses under a variety of conditions. Intraverbal relations constitute a large portion of these verbal interactions and may include compound antecedent verbal stimuli. Prior research has shown that responding may come under the control of limited features of compound antecedent stimuli, which may be evident when responding does not occur in the presence of individual elements or emergent performances (e.g., symmetrical relations) are absent. The current study evaluated the effects of alternating convergent intraverbal (CIV) and tact by feature, function, or class sessions on emergent tact performances in a game‐like arrangement. Participants included four children exhibiting expressive language deficits. The results revealed that correct responding on CIV trials did not consistently predict tact performances for the same targets. These findings highlight the need for additional research on the effective arrangement of compound stimuli in early educational interventions.
Exploring the Lower Limit of Target Concentration in Capture‐SELEX Using Guanine as a Model Target
Authors: Ding Yuzhe , Zhang Ziyu , Liu Juewen
Published: August 2024

During an aptamer selection, using a lower target concentration may result in aptamers with a higher binding affinity. Consequently, this begs the question of whether there is a lower limit for target concentration. In this work, we conducted three aptamer selections using 5 μM, 500 nM and 50 nM guanine as the targets, respectively. Successful enrichment of the same guanine aptamers was achieved at both 5 μM and 500 nM guanine, but not with 50 nM. Using 5 μM guanine, the aptamer was enriched in eight rounds of selection, compared to that for 500 nM, which was accomplished in 17 rounds. We discuss the relation of optimal target concentration to the observed Kd value of the resulting aptamers, of which the highest affinity aptamer had a measured Kd of 200 nM. Additionally, we investigated the binding of the aptamers through mutation studies, revealing a critical cytosine. Mutating this cytosine to a thymine switched the selectivity from guanine to adenine, which is reminiscent of the guanine riboswitch. This study revealed a limit in using low target concentration, and the insights described in this article will be useful for guiding the choice of target concentration during capture‐SELEX.
Nuclear‐Targeting Peptides for Cancer Therapy
Authors: Yi Xuan , Hussain Irshad , Zhang Peng , Xiao Chunsheng
Published: August 2024

Nucleus is the central regulator of cells that controls cell proliferation, metabolism, and cell cycle, and is considered the most important organelle in cells. The precision medicine that can achieve nuclear targeting has achieved good therapeutic effects in anti‐tumor therapy. However, the presence of biological barriers such as cell membranes and nuclear membranes in cells limit the delivery of therapeutic agents to the nucleus. Therefore, developing effective nuclear‐targeting drug delivery strategies is particularly important. Nuclear‐targeting peptides are a class of functional peptides that can penetrate cell membranes and target the nucleus. They mainly recognize and bind to the nuclear transport molecules (such as Importin‐α/β) and transport the therapeutic agents to the nucleus through nuclear pore complexes (NPC). This review summarizes the most recent developments of strategies for anti‐tumor therapy utilizing nuclear‐targeting peptides, which will ultimately contribute to the development of more effective nuclear‐targeting strategies to achieve better anti‐tumor outcomes.
Novel hawk swarm‐optimized deep learning classification with K‐nearest neighbor based decision making for autonomous vehicle movement controller
Authors: Qingmiao Zhang , Dinghua Zhang
Published: August 2024

Nowadays, intelligent transportation systems pay a lot of attention to autonomous vehicles it is believed that an autonomous vehicle improves mobility, comfort, safety, and energy efficiency. Making decisions is essential for the development of autonomous vehicles since these algorithms must be able to manage dynamic and complex urban crossings. In this research an optimal deep BiLSTM‐GAN classifier to detect the movement of smart vehicles, initially the preprocessing stage is performed to decrease noise in the received data after that the essential regions are next be extracted in the region of interest (ROI) to make the right decision. The extracted data are forwarded to the GAN for road segmentation as well as the optimized deep BiLSTM classifier, which recognizes the traffic sign, simultaneously making it possible to do a modified Hough line‐based maneuver prediction using the segmented information from the roads. Finally, the GAN determines the lane, and the BiLSTM predicts the traffic sign. The K‐nearest neighbor (KNN)‐based autonomous vehicle movement controllers are used to make the decision based on the predicted traffic sign and information about the lane. The proposed HSO algorithm was developed as the outcome of the common fusion of hawk and swarm optimization. Based on lane detecting achievements, at training percentage (TP) 90, the accuracy is 91.75%, Peak signal‐to‐noise ratio (PSNR) is 64.84%, mean square error (MSE) is 28.78, and mean absolute error (MAE) is 20.20, respectively, similarly based on the traffic sign prediction achievements at TP 90, the accuracy is 93.71%, sensitivity is 95.15%, specificity is 93.91%, and MSE is 28.78%, respectively.
Enhancing organizational attractiveness through CSR consistency: Examining the impact of corporate hypocrisy, conceptual fluency, and proactive communication in HR recruitment
Authors: Li Hong‐yan , Duan Xianxian , Fu Qiang
Published: August 2024

Incorporating corporate social responsibility (CSR) into organizational strategies has become essential, demonstrating a dedication to ethical conduct and sustainable practices. This paper investigates how consistency in CSR practices impacts organizational attractiveness. Drawing upon the theory of the continuum model of impression formation, two separate studies were undertaken to investigate the influence of CSR consistency (both consistent and inconsistent CSR) on the appeal of organizations. Besides, these studies aimed to evaluate the mediating roles of conceptual fluency and perceived corporate hypocrisy in this relationship, as well as the moderating effect of two corporate communication strategies (proactive and passive). The study found that perceptions of corporate hypocrisy played a significant mediating role in the link between inconsistent CSR practices and the appeal of an organization. This mediating effect was diminished by the use of proactive communication strategies. In contrast, conceptual fluency was identified as a key mediator in the relationship between consistent CSR practices and organizational attractiveness, with its mediating effect being enhanced by proactive communication strategies. This study makes a novel contribution by focusing on the temporal stability of CSR initiatives and broadens the understanding of whether sustained engagement in CSR activities over time confers greater organizational attractiveness than occasional or random initiatives. This study extends the theory of the relationship between perceived CSR and job seekers and provides guidance and recommendations for CSR activities and HR recruitment practices for companies in the post‐epidemic era.
Recent Advances in Engineering Fe−N−C Catalysts for Oxygen Electrocatalysis in Zn‐Air Batteries
Authors: Li Le , Han Meijun , Zhang Penggang , Yang Donglei , Zhang Meng
Published: August 2024

Fe−N−C single‐atom catalysts (SACs) have emerged as one of the most promising candidates for oxygen electrocatalysis due to their maximized atom utilization efficiency, high intrinsic activity, and strong metal‐support interaction. Significant progress has been made in engineering Fe−N−C SACs for oxygen electrocatalysis in Zn‐air batteries (ZABs). This review provides a comprehensive overview of the recent advancements in Fe−N−C SACs, with a special focus on effective engineering strategies, their performance in oxygen electrocatalysis, and their potential applications in ZABs. The review also discusses the key challenges and future directions in the development of Fe−N−C SACs for efficient and durable oxygen electrocatalysis in ZABs. This review aims to offer valuable insights into the current state of research in this field and to guide future efforts in the development of advanced oxygen electrocatalysts for ZABs.