bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Genetic variability and multivariate analysis in pearl millet (Pennisetum glaucum (L.) R. Br.) germplasm for dual purpose
Authors: Shanmuganathan M. , Gopalan A. , Mohanraj K.
Published: May 2016

Genetic variability and diversity in pearl millet (Pennisetum glaucum (L.) R.Br.) was studied with 104 germplasm accessions of different origin. Analysis of variance indicated significant variances among the accessions for all the characters studied. The maximum variation was recorded for number of tillers, number of leaves, leaf length and breadth, panicle length, leaf weight, stem weight, leaf stem ratio, green fodder yield, crude protein content and grain yield indicates the possibilities of improving these characters through phenotypic selection for the development of dual purpose cultivars (grain cum fodder yield). High heritability coupled with high genetic advance of percentage of mean was observed for all characters except days to 50% flowering suggesting that these traits are governed by additive gene action and possibility of improving these characters through selection. Based on the D2 analysis all the accessions were grouped into twelve clusters. Cluster I retain the maximum accessions of 82 and nine clusters retained only one accession each. The intra cluster distance ranged from 0.00 to 6.71 and the inter cluster distance was recorded highest between cluster XI and cluster XII. Cluster XII exhibited maximum mean value for five characters. Based on the relative contribution, plant height contributed more towards genetic divergence.
Evaluation of herbicide mixtures for weed control in maize (Zea mays L.) under middle gujarat conditions
Authors: Patel V. J. , Upadhyay P. N. , Patel J. B. , Patel B. D.
Published: May 2016

A field experiment was carried out to evaluate the herbicide mixtures for weed control in maize (Zea mays L.) under middle Gujarat conditions at College Agronomy Farm, Gujarat Agricultural University, Anand during Kharif seasons of 2001-2002 and 2002-2003. The experiment was laid out in a randomized block design with four replications. The treatments comprised of viz., atrazine, alachlor and metolachlor each @ 1.0 kg a.i./ha, metribuzin @ 0.30 kg a.i./ha, pendimethalin @ 0.5 kg a.i./ha and their feasible mixtures were applied at half of the rate, weed free (2 hand weeding at 20 & 40 days after sowing) and weedy check. It was observed that maximum weed control efficiency (> 98 %) was achieved with pre-emergence application of atrazine @ 0.5 kg a.i./ha in combination with pendimethalin @ 0.25 kg a.i./ha and atrazine + alachlor each applied @ 0.5 kg a.i./ha and twice hand weeding carried out at 20 and 40 DAS. Similar trend was observed in grain yield.
Genetic analysis of pearl millet for phytic acid content
Authors: Shanmuganathan M. , Gopalan A. , Mohanraj K.
Published: May 2016

A diallel set of 11 pearl millet genotypes was made to evaluate General Combining Ability (GCA) effects of parents and Specific Combining Ability (SCA) effects of cross combinations. The analysis of variance of diallel progenies exhibited significant genotypic differences. Different analyses, i.e., combining ability analysis and genetic component analysis, showed that both additive and non additive gene effect were significant. Four parents had negative GCA estimates. Crosses with low SCA effects were also identified and their further use in breeding programme has been suggested.
Developing an attitudinal scale to measure the attitudes of the farmers towards commercialization of agricultural extension
Authors: Mahaliyanaarachchi R. P. , Wijeratne A. W. , Bandara R. M. A. S.
Published: May 2016

Agricultural Extension is one of the major sub sectors of the agricultural sector which has been given major concern by governments, international funding agencies such as FAO, IFAD, ADB and World Bank and other donor agencies mainly due to high cost incurred in agricultural extension programs. In the mean time most of the governments both in the developing and developed world has been pruning funds for the extension services since 1990s. The situation of the public extension service has been deteriorating due to this reason. Therefore the structural and financial adjustments in the extension system have been demanded. In this climate the experts in the extension field have identified privatisation and commercialisation of agricultural extension as an important alternative.Before implementing commercialisation approach, it is necessary to know the attitudes of the farmers who are the major participants in agricultural production and development towards commercialisation of agricultural extension. Measuring attitudes as a psychological natural tendency provides a basis for planning and also affects desirable changes in the existing system. The prime objective of this study was to develop a scale to measure the attitudes of the farmers towards commercialization of agricultural extension. Attitude towards commercialisation of agricultural extension service (CAES) refers to the “individual’s degree of willingness or unwillingness towards commercialisation of agricultural extension service.”Initially 41 statements were developed and out of these only 30 statements were identified as reliable statements. Out of 30 statements remained after validity test, 19 are identified as positive statements and 11 are as negative.
Behavioral pattern of fruit & vegetable consumers in the ‘Pola’ (Fair) system in Monaragala district in Sri Lanka
Authors: Jayatillake P. J. , Mahalianaarachchi R. P.
Published: May 2016

The vegetable and fruit production plays a major role in domestic food production in Sri Lankan agricultural sector. In the process of developing the fruit and vegetable sector, it is very useful to consider the needs, preferences and behaviour of consumers. The main objective of this study is to find the behavioral patterns of fruit and vegetable consumers in the “Pola” (fair) system and reasons for such behaviour. This research study was carried out by using a combination of cross sectional survey and case studies due to explanatory nature of the study. A total of 100 consumers were interviewed and four case studies were carried out in Monaragala District. Five fairs were selected from five of 10 Divisional Secretariat Divisions. To statistically analyze the data, frequency distributions and chi-squire tests were used. The majority (77%) of the consumers of the Pola in the Monaragala District were regular purchasers. The main reason for their preference was low price (40%) and freshness (34%). The consumer’s main vegetable purchasing market was the Pola (97.9%) and the next was the village retailer (65.5%). The consumers’ main consideration in buying vegetables and fruits is price (56.8%). Their next considerations are appearance (52%), freshness 40%, and nutritive value (42.4%) respectively. Consumers were interested in both price and quality (appearance, freshness and nutritive value) when they purchase vegetables and fruits at the Pola.
Measurement of limb radiance and Trace Gases in UV over Tropical region by Balloon-Borne Instruments – Flight Validation and Initial Results
Authors: Sreejith A. G. , Mathew Joice , Sarpotdar Mayuresh , Nirmal K. , Suresh Ambily , Prakash Ajin , Safonova Margarita , Murthy Jayant
Published: May 2016

Abstract. We describe a method to measure the solar scattered UV radiance and trace gases in the upper troposphere and stratosphere using a spectrograph carried by high-altitude balloons. The flights have been conducted over tropical regions near urban areas. The instrumentation was developed using off-the-shelf components and can be easily reproduced. We describe the design of the instrument, its operation in flight and discuss some flight result. Observations of the scattered solar radiance were performed by looking towards the Earth's limb at Sun angles of more than 90 degrees at altitudes of 10 to 29 km. This method allows us to estimate the variation of the scattered UV solar radiance with height. It also can be used to measure the column densities in the upper atmosphere.
Take Five for Customer Service
Authors: Ax-Fultz Laura J. , Eshbach Barbara E. , Loomis Evonne N. , Miller Richard C.
Published: May 2016

Businesses leverage excellent customer service to improve profitability. Although not profit-driven, libraries should leverage excellent customer service to achieve their unique missions. Evaluating and improving customer service practices will help a library determine if it is successfully serving its customers. The library should review three areas to improve customer service: the physical space of the library, how library employees work with library policies, and the communication skills of the library staff. By using the Take Five model, the library can make immediate, no-cost changes or plan for future improvements by taking just five minutes, every day, to assess specific areas. Over a few weeks or months, these small changes will result in better customer service.
Navigating the Copyright Landscape: Practical Considerations for Librarians
Authors: Conlogue Bridget Carter , Christianson Leslie W.
Published: May 2016

Copyright is central to teaching activities in higher education. Using copyrighted materials in education requires careful analysis and understanding of copyright basics. A review of the literature demonstrates that librarians are the primary resource on campus for information about copyright. A sampling of small to moderate-size, private university and college websites, and a survey of the librarians at those institutions suggest that libraries and librarians are the sole providers of copyright information for their campus. This paper examines how and what kinds of copyright information librarians at private, small to moderate-size institutions provide to their patrons and offers commentary from librarians who are currently the copyright contact on campus. The authors discuss how to use copyright expertise to build a professional niche and serve the profession as well as how to identify new opportunities for professional growth and career advancement.
PaLRaP Earns the Directory of Open Access Journals (DOAJ) Seal of Approval
Authors: Reinsfelder Tom , Behler Anne
Published: May 2016

In early 2016 PaLRaP was added to the Directory of Open Access Journals (DOAJ) and received the DOAJ Seal of Approval.
The Impact of Gender, Family Type and Age on Undergraduate Parents’ Perception of Causes of Sexual Abuse
Authors: Onoyase Anna
Published: May 2016

The purpose of this study was to investigate the Impact of Gender, Family type and Age on undergraduate parents’ perception of causes of child Sexual Abuse. Three hypotheses were formulated and tested. There was a review of relevant literature. The population for the study were 2014 sandwich contact students of Delta State University, Abraka who were about 2000 in number. The sample size of 303 was drawn using the stratified random sampling technique. The instrument for this study was a questionnaire and it had face, content and construct validity from expert judgment and factor analysis. The reliability was assessed with Cronbach Alpha statistics and yielded an r value of 0.90. The data was analysed with t-test statistics and the results revealed that variables of gender and age have no impact on undergraduate parents’ perception of causes of child sexual abuse. But family type has impact on their perception of the causes of child sexual abuse. Recommendations made include the followings: that counselors should organize parents’ conferences and use such fora to enlighten parents on their roles to their children or wards in terms of provision of basic needs as well as supervising and monitoring them, the government should provide students with adequate learning materials so as to reduce the financial burden on parents and thus enhance their care for their children.
Ellagic Acid May Improve Mechanical and Barrier Properties in Films of Starch-A Review Paper
Authors: Tirado-Gallegos J. M. , Sepúlveda-Ahumada D. R. , Zamudio-Flores P. B. , Rodríguez-Marin M. L. , Hernández-Centeno Francisco , Salgado-Delgado R.
Published: May 2016

Packaging increases the shelf life of food and facilitates its handling, transportation and marketing. The main packaging materials are plastics derived from petroleum, but their accumulation has given rise to environmental problems. An alternative is the use of biodegradable materials. In this regard, starch is an excellent choice because it is an abundant and renewable source with film-forming properties. However, the films obtained from starch have some limitations with respect to their mechanical and barrier properties. Several strategies have been developed in order to improve these limitations, ranging from the addition of lipids to the modification of the polymer structure. The aim of this review was propose the use of ellagic acid as a cross-linking agent that may improves the mechanical and barrier properties in films based on exists reports that phenolic compounds interact with starch-based materials decreasing their rate of retrogradation. Furthermore, ellagic acid is a powerful natural antioxidant, which would allow the production of active packaging with antioxidant properties, in addition to the improvement of the mechanical and barrier properties of starch films. In this concern more studies such as Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, differential scanning calorimetry and thermogravimetric analysis are necessary to verify the structural changes and interactions between starch and ellagic acid. We expect extensive use of it in the future of packaging materials.
Criação de conhecimento sob a ótica da aprendizagem organizacional em uma empresa criativa
Authors: D'Arisbo Anelise , Cislaghi Tatiane Pellin , Fachinelli Ana Cristina , Larentis Fabiano
Published: May 2016

The creation of knowledge can be associated to the creative economy by considering the value creation from creativity, intellectual assets and knowledge. Although studies have evolved with specific characteristics in each field, on  organizational context learning can be considered as an intrinsic processes of knowledge creation process. Thus, the article aims to analyze the knowledge creation , from the organizational learning perspective in a creative company from the knowledge creation's theory, from Nonaka and Takeuchi (1997), in order to examine the relationship between knowledge creation and learning. We conducted exploratory and descriptive research associated with a case study. The results indicate prevalence of the knowledge sharing's practices in informal methods and experiences of each employee. The case analysis also reveals the social aspects of learning and situated learning in both epistemological and ontological dimension of knowledge creation.
Construindo a gestão estratégica sustentável: um estudo sobre a empresa Mercur S.A.
Authors: Alievi Rejane Maria , Antinarelli Alexandre
Published: May 2016

The pressures for economic growth of organizations have been leading to society and companies to become aware that humanity lives in a world where natural resources are finite and that the impacts of this growth can cause damage for present and future generations. Thus, the present study aimed contributed with this discussion, under the perspective of sustainable development approach, evaluating how the organizational environment seeks to promote the confluence between enterprise strategies and sustainable strategic management. For this, it sought through a case study, qualitative and exploratory; retrieve the main theoretical approaches related to enterprise strategies and sustainable development. The results of the study allowed identifying that the development of organizational awareness of sustainability, contributed to the formulation process of sustainable business strategies.
A influência da gestão de recursos humanos no desempenho ambiental no setor metal mecânico brasileiro
Authors: Freitas Wesley Ricardo de Souza , Kniess Cláudia Terezinha , Cortese Tatiana Tucunduva Philippi , Da Silva Dirceu
Published: May 2016

The environmental protection is a concern of all sectors of society. In the business environment, human resources can contribute to environmental performance through its Human Resources practices. Thus, this article aims to identify whether human resource management practices influence the environmental performance in the mechanical metal sector companies linked to the Brazilian Association of Machinery and Equipment (ABIMAQ). As methodological procedures, we carried out a survey with a sample of 108 companies, analyzing the results through the Partial Least Squares (PLS). The results indicated that from the management of green human resources, through practices such as recruitment and selection, training, performance evaluation and rewards, there is a positive and significant influence on reducing the consumption of natural resources such as water, energy, matter raw and reduction in the generation of solid waste and wastewater, environmental aspects that form the environmental performance of companies in the sample of the Mechanical Metal Sector.
Aplicação das Metodologias FMEA e GUT na Prestação do Serviço Automotivo de Geometria a Laser
Authors: Cembranel Priscila , Lopes Luis Felipe Dias
Published: May 2016

The automotive service geometry laser is responsible for wheel alignment, steering and camber and aims to adjust the wheels so the tire has the least possible friction with the ground. We selected the service Geometry laser due to its high demand in the company under study (verified by the sales reports and service orders), with respect to sales volume. The study aimed at the development of process flowchart, identifying failures in suggesting and implementing actions to correct the non-conformities. The methodology we used the quantitative approach, methodology and descriptive as technical monitoring in situ, in order to identify all steps involved in the process of providing the service. For the identification of faults used the FMEA method was evaluated using criteria from methodology GUT. The main faults listed were: the high rate of rework, the qualification of contractor geometry, the need to update the manual of standards and measures for the vehicle geometry, the need for monitoring contractor geometry with the client in the vehicle testing and calibration and verification machine geometry. Through the methodology GUT has listed as priority monitoring the contractor geometry with the client in the vehicle testing and measuring equipment geometry, which directly impacted the index rework.
Fatores que influenciam o uso e a seleção de um software de gerenciamento de projetos: aplicando o modelo de Liberatore e Pollack-Johnson em uma empresa pública brasileira de desenvolvimento de software
Authors: Radaieski Gabriela Da Silva , Fróes Marcos Feier , Bandeira Denise Lindstrom
Published: May 2016

Liberatore and Pollack-Johnson (2003) made a survey to analyze and assess factors that influence the extent of usage, type of usage, and selection of project management (PM) software by professionals in the field. This study aims to verify whether the results found by the authors apply to the reality of a Brazilian software development public company. Liberatore and Pollack-Johnson’s questionnaire was translated and applied to a group of project managers. In addition, we conducted semi structured interviews and observations to gather data used in the analyses. Differences were found when comparing the survey results to those of Liberatore and Pollack-Johnson (2003). The main finding of this research relates to the identification of a specific need that had not been mentioned in the Liberatore and Pollack-Johnson’s research: "usage for control only".
Etapas necessárias para a implantação de um sistema de gestão integrado
Authors: Fernandes Jonathan Lucas Schwambach , Busanello Fernando , Polacinski Edio , Godoy Leoni Pentiado , Losekann Andresa Girardi , Lorenzett Daniel Benitti
Published: May 2016

In the work environment in which we live today the deployment of management focused on quality have become an essential and indispensable to the proper performance of organizations that seek to address the current competitive market.  This sense, there are organizations that seek adapt to this reality when try to make sure one of the quality standards accepted by the market, namely ISO 9001, 14001, SA 8000, and OHSAS 18001. Thus, based on the above it is emphasized that this article featured as a theoretical essay aims to present a comparative study of various cases, showing the steps required to deploy an Integrated Management System (IMS) consists of the four standards mentioned above. As a result of research presents a compilation of fourteen cases, as well as the deployment of an SGI used by each company.
Estrutura de capital e estratégia em mercados competitivos: uma análise empírica da relação
Authors: Severo Rodrigo , Zani João , Diehl Carlos A
Published: May 2016

An extensive body of research has identified several determinants of capital structure. Several characteristics of the companies have been listed as factors influencing capital structure, eg, size, growth opportunities, profitability, tax shields and proportion of fixed assets. Some studies have examined the use of the financial structure as a strategic variable in competitive products market. However, there is little empirical evidence about effect of these conditions on the capital structure. The purpose of this research was to investigate the interaction between capital structure and competitive strategy in the market of goods and supplies. For this, it estimated a simultaneous equation model and the use of the methods of ordinary least squares (OLS), minimum tables in two stages (2SLS) and the generalized method of moments (GMM). The evidence found in this study confirm the influence of capital structure on competitive strategy in product markets and supplies and vice versa. This study also presents a contribution from a methodological point of view, given the novelty of the application of estimation methods 2SLS and GMM, to test the determinants of capital structure in the Brazilian market. The results are robust even from different operational definitions and econometric specifications.
Estratégias de educação corporativa e suas relações com os diferentes níveis de aprendizagem organizacional
Authors: Moscardini Ticiana , Klein Amarolinda Zanela
Published: May 2016

Corporate Education is a process of continuous professional education provided by the organization, as a system that integrates concepts like Knowledge Management, Competency Management and Organizational Learning. Organizational learning is dynamic and occurs in an individual, collective or institutional level; its analysis can be done with the “4 Is” framework (Intuition, Interpretation, Integration and Institutionalization) proposed by Crossan, Lane e White (1999). This theoretical paper aims to analyze the relationships between Corporate Education strategies of and the framework proposed by Crossan, Lane e White (1999), identifying how each strategy can promote the different levels of organizational learning, collaborating with this process. As the main research result, it was possible to develop a theoretical framework that contributes to the understanding and discussion of the complexity to develop, in fact, learning at the organizational level through different strategies of corporate education. This new framework can be used in practice by managers for planning or evaluating initiatives of Corporate Education, as well as by academia, to explain the concept of corporate education and for management training.
Preço e renda como determinantes da demanda por bens de luxo no Brasil: um estudo econométrico com produtos importados da Nomenclatura Comum do Mercosul
Authors: Scalco Paulo Roberto , Lippi Mariana Klaold , Almeida Marcos Inácio Severo de
Published: May 2016

This article offers an alternative approach as promote an analysis on the determinants of demand for luxury products with data of more than a thousand imported products of the table of Mercosur Common Nomenclature (NCM). Through the volume of imports between January 2000 and March 2011 two hypotheses were tested about the determinants of demand: price and income. The results show that only income is statistically significant in determining the demand. These results are in agreement with what is discussed in economic theory, which defines luxury goods as those whose income elasticity of demand is greater than one. The non-statistical significance of the price factor may be result of a methodological limitation due to the use of the proxy for price or may be the result of non-functional characteristics of demand: consumers of luxury purchase them even in the face of higher prices.
Incorporating Archaeological Resources in Landscape-Level Planning and Management
Authors: Doelle William H. , Barker Pat , Cushman David , Heilen Michael , Herhahn Cynthia , Rieth Christina
Published: May 2016

The increasing importance of landscape-scale research and preservation goals within the archaeological profession coincides with expanded threats to the archaeological record through massive energy exploration and infrastructure projects and through the cumulative effects of smaller-scale development. It is further stimulated by the recognition that conservation strategies that span multiple resource classes and disciplines are best formulated at multiple and larger spatial scales. These are key drivers behind efforts to improve the ways that archaeological resources are considered in the context of development-related planning and implementation, including mitigation measures. In a prominent example, recent department-level direction from the Secretary of the Interior calls specifically for landscape-level planning as a critical component of responses to both large-scale development and climate change. This article reviews three current approaches to landscape-level planning in archaeology and calls for increased commitment to advancing their development and effectiveness.
Values-Based Management of Archaeological Resources at a Landscape Scale
Authors: McManamon Francis P. , Doershuk John , Lipe William D. , McCulloch Tom , Polglase Christopher , Schlanger Sarah , Sebastian Lynne , Sullivan Lynne
Published: May 2016

Public agencies at all levels of government and other organizations that manage archaeological resources often face the problem of many undertakings that collectively impact large numbers of individually significant archaeological resources. Such situations arise when an agency is managing a large area, such as a national forest, land management district, park unit, wildlife refuge, or military installation. These situations also may arise in regard to large-scale development projects, such as energy developments, highways, reservoirs, transmission lines, and other major infrastructure projects that cover substantial areas. Over time, the accumulation of impacts from small-scale projects to individual archaeological resources may degrade landscape or regional-scale cultural phenomena. Typically, these impacts are mitigated at the site level without regard to how the impacts to individual resources affect the broader population of resources. Actions to mitigate impacts rarely are designed to do more than avoid resources or ensure some level of data recovery at single sites. Such mitigation activities are incapable of addressing research question at a landscape or regional scale.
Software process improvement: a systematic mapping study on the state of the art
Authors: Kuhrmann Marco , Diebold Philipp , Münch Jürgen
Published: May 2016

Software process improvement (SPI) has been around for decades: frameworks are proposed, success factors are studied, and experiences have been reported. However, the sheer mass of concepts, approaches, and standards published over the years overwhelms practitioners as well as researchers. What is out there? Are there new trends and emerging approaches? What are open issues? Still, we struggle to answer these questions about the current state of SPI and related research. In this article, we present results from an updated systematic mapping study to shed light on the field of SPI, to develop a big picture of the state of the art, and to draw conclusions for future research directions. An analysis of 769 publications draws a big picture of SPI-related research of the past quarter-century. Our study shows a high number of solution proposals, experience reports, and secondary studies, but only few theories and models on SPI in general. In particular, standard SPI models like CMMI and ISO/IEC 15,504 are analyzed, enhanced, and evaluated for applicability in practice, but these standards are also critically discussed, e.g., from the perspective of SPI in small-to-medium-sized companies, which leads to new specialized frameworks. New and specialized frameworks account for the majority of the contributions found (approx. 38%). Furthermore, we find a growing interest in success factors (approx. 16%) to aid companies in conducting SPI and in adapting agile principles and practices for SPI (approx. 10%). Beyond these specific topics, the study results also show an increasing interest into secondary studies with the purpose of aggregating and structuring SPI-related knowledge. Finally, the present study helps directing future research by identifying under-researched topics awaiting further investigation.
Validation of a Novel 3‐Dimensional Sonographic Method for Assessing Gastric Accommodation in Healthy Adults
Authors: Buisman Wijnand J. , van Herwaarden-Lindeboom Maud Y. A. , Mauritz Femke A. , El Ouamari Mourad , Hausken Trygve , Olafsdottir Edda J. , van der Zee David C. , Gilja Odd Helge
Published: May 2016

Objectives

: A novel automated 3‐dimensional (3D) sonographic method has been developed for measuring gastric volumes. This study aimed to validate and assess the reliability of this novel 3D sonographic method compared to the reference standard in 3D gastric sonography: freehand magneto‐based 3D sonography.

Methods

: A prospective study with 8 balloons (in vitro) and 16 stomachs of healthy volunteers (in vivo) was performed. After a 500‐mL liquid meal, 1 preprandial and 3 postprandial volume scans of the stomachs were performed by the novel 3D sonographic method and the current reference‐standard 3D sonographic method.

Results

The in vitro study showed a mean volume difference between the novel method and the true balloon volume of −1.3 mL; limits of agreement (LoA) were small (−39.3 to12.3 mL), with an intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) of 0.998. The in vivo study showed a mean gastric volume of 321 mL between the novel method and the freehand magneto‐based method, with a mean volume difference of −4.4 mL; LoA were −40.1 to 31.2 mL, and the ICC was 0.991. The intraobserver and interobserver variability rates were low, at 0.8 mL (LoA, −24.0 to 25.6 mL), with an ICC of 0.995, and 0.5 mL (LoA, of −26.8 to 27.8 mL), with an ICC of 0.999, respectively.

Conclusions

The novel 3D sonographic method with automated acquisition showed good agreement with the current reference‐standard gastric 3D sonographic method, with low intraobserver and interobserver variability. This novel 3D sonographic method is a valid and reliable technique for determining gastric accommodation.
Automated Analysis of Stereotypical Movements in Videos of Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder
Authors: Barami Tal , Manelis-Baram Liora , Kaiser Hadas , Ilan Michal , Slobodkin Aviv , Hadashi Ofri , Hadad Dor , Waissengreen Danel , Nitzan Tanya , Menashe Idan , Michaelovsky Analya , Begin Michal , Zachor Ditza A. , Sadaka Yair , Koler Judah , Zagdon Dikla , Meiri Gal , Azencot Omri , Sharf Andrei , Dinstein Ilan
Published: September 2024

Importance

Stereotypical motor movements (SMMs) are a form of restricted and repetitive behavior, which is a core symptom of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Current quantification of SMM severity is extremely limited, with studies relying on coarse and subjective caregiver reports or laborious manual annotation of short video recordings.

Objective

To assess the utility of a new open-source AI algorithm that can analyze extensive video recordings of children and automatically identify segments with heterogeneous SMMs, thereby enabling their direct and objective quantification.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This retrospective cohort study included 241 children (aged 1.4 to 8.0 years) with ASD. Video recordings of 319 behavioral assessments carried out at the Azrieli National Centre for Autism and Neurodevelopment Research in Israel between 2017 and 2021 were extracted. Behavioral assessments included cognitive, language, and autism diagnostic observation schedule, 2nd edition (ADOS-2) assessments. Data were analyzed from October 2020 to May 2024.

Exposures

Each assessment was recorded with 2 to 4 cameras, yielding 580 hours of video footage. Within these extensive video recordings, manual annotators identified 7352 video segments containing heterogeneous SMMs performed by different children (21.14 hours of video).

Main outcomes and measures

A pose estimation algorithm was used to extract skeletal representations of all individuals in each video frame and was trained an object detection algorithm to identify the child in each video. The skeletal representation of the child was then used to train an SMM recognition algorithm using a 3 dimensional convolutional neural network. Data from 220 children were used for training and data from the remaining 21 children were used for testing.

Results

Among 319 behavioral assessment recordings from 241 children (172 [78%] male; mean [SD] age, 3.97 [1.30] years), the algorithm accurately detected 92.53% (95% CI, 81.09%-95.10%) of manually annotated SMMs in our test data with 66.82% (95% CI, 55.28%-72.05%) precision. Overall number and duration of algorithm-identified SMMs per child were highly correlated with manually annotated number and duration of SMMs (r = 0.8; 95% CI, 0.67-0.93; P < .001; and r = 0.88; 95% CI, 0.74-0.96; P < .001, respectively).

Conclusions and relevance

This study suggests the ability of an algorithm to identify a highly diverse range of SMMs and quantify them with high accuracy, enabling objective and direct estimation of SMM severity in individual children with ASD.
Heterogeneity of Residual Disease After Neoadjuvant Systemic Therapy in Breast Cancer
Authors: Tarantino Paolo , Hortobagyi Gabriel , Tolaney Sara M. , Mittendorf Elizabeth A.
Published: September 2024

Importance

Over the past 2 decades, systemic therapy for early-stage breast cancer has gradually moved from the adjuvant to the neoadjuvant setting. Administration of systemic therapy before surgery leads to potential improvements in surgical outcomes and allows for the assessment of the pathologic response to treatment. For patients with residual disease (RD), 3 adjuvant strategies have been shown to improve outcomes: (1) adjuvant trastuzumab emtansine for ERBB2-positive disease, (2) adjuvant capecitabine for triple-negative disease, and (3) adjuvant olaparib for patients with germline BRCA variants. Furthermore, studies are testing novel drugs in the postneoadjuvant setting. Given the potential to tailor adjuvant therapy based on the response to preoperative systemic therapy, recognizing the complexities of response to neoadjuvant therapy and moving beyond the binary paradigm of RD vs experiencing a pathologic complete response is becoming increasingly necessary.

Observations

Novel antibody-drug conjugates, anti-ERBB2 tyrosine kinase inhibitors, and immune checkpoint inhibitors are being evaluated as additional rescue options in phase 3 trials for patients with RD after neoadjuvant treatment. Concomitantly, the prognostic role of RD has been refined by the introduction of the residual cancer burden. In addition, the genomic landscape of RD has been found to be associated with long-term prognosis, as has the immune background of the disease evaluated via the presence of tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes. Lastly, the dynamics of circulating tumor DNA may allow for further improvement in prognostication by understanding which patients harbor detectable minimal RD.

Conclusions and Relevance

Escalating adjuvant treatment has led to meaningful survival improvements among patients with breast cancer and RD after neoadjuvant therapy. Uncovering the anatomic and biological intricacies of RD will allow for increased precision in postneoadjuvant treatments, moving beyond the binary paradigm of RD vs pathologic complete response, toward more tailored rescue strategies in the adjuvant setting.
Magnesium Optrodes for Real‐Time Optical Monitoring of Water Transport in Ultrathin Encapsulations for Bioelectronics
Authors: Mariello Massimo , Kavungal Deepthy , Gallagher Aidan , Cleusix Marion Bianca , Rouèche Mélanie N. , Altug Hatice , Leterrier Yves , Lacour Stéphanie P.
Published: September 2024

Recent studies investigated the hydrolysis of Magnesium (Mg) thin films, highlighting their potential use in biodegradable devices. Quantitatively monitoring the degradation rate and morphological changes of Mg through optical methods and light‐delivery devices offers an innovative, contactless technique, independent of electrical wiring. This method is particularly useful for challenging sensing applications. This study introduces a set of strategies based on Mg optrodes where hydrolysis drives the real‐time monitoring of biofluid penetration through thin‐film encapsulations for bioelectronics. This enables a straightforward assessment of their long‐term reliability, through a quantitative correlation between the water transmission rate (WTR) of the encapsulation and the Mg optical modifications. The optical response of the corroding Mg films deposited on glass substrates and multimode optical fibers tips, within the visible spectrum is characterized. Finally, it is demonstrated that nanopatterning of Mg films as plasmonic nanoantennas significantly enhances the sensitivity of the quantitative approach in the mid‐Infrared spectrum through localized plasmon effects. This method achieves a WTR detection of 6.9 × 10−3 gm−2 day−1 in phosphate buffer solution (25 °C), with a theoretical lower detection limit of ≈10−5 gm−2 day−1. These findings pave the way for the development of a new class of nano‐optical water‐permeation sensors.
Electrochemically Promoted Skeleton Transformation of 2,1‐Benzisoxazoles to Alkyl Sulfones
Authors: Wu Yun‐Qi , Ren Sai‐Yan , Zhu Yu , Cui Fei‐Hu , Pan Ying‐Ming , Tang Hai‐Tao
Published: September 2024

This study developed an electrochemically promoted skeleton transformation reaction of 2,1‐benzisoxazoles to synthesize alkyl sulfones. Alkyl sulfones were synthesized in 68–93% yield by using 2,1‐benzisoxazole and sulfonate as substrates, and acetonitrile and water as solvents. Mechanism studies showed that this reaction involves ring opening, removal of the oxygen atom of the 2,1‐benzisoxazoles, and C(sp3)‐sulfonylation under electrochemical conditions.
A Passive Perspiration Inspired Wearable Platform for Continuous Glucose Monitoring
Authors: Saha Tamoghna , Khan Muhammad Inam , Sandhu Samar Singh , Yin Lu , Earney Sara , Zhang Chenyang , Djassemi Omeed , Wang Zongnan , Han Jintong , Abdal Abdulhameed , Srivatsa Samarth , Ding Shichao , Wang Joseph
Published: September 2024

The demand for glucose monitoring devices has witnessed continuous growth from the rising diabetic population. The traditional approach of blood glucose (BG) sensor strip testing generates only intermittent glucose readings. Interstitial fluid‐based devices measure glucose dynamically, but their sensing approaches remain either minimally invasive or prone to skin irritation. Here, a sweat glucose monitoring system is presented, which completely operates under rest with no sweat stimulation and can generate real‐time BG dynamics. Osmotically driven hydrogels, capillary action with paper microfluidics, and self‐powered enzymatic biochemical sensor are used for simultaneous sweat extraction, transport, and glucose monitoring, respectively. The osmotic forces facilitate greater flux inflow and minimize sweat rate fluctuations compared to natural perspiration‐based sampling. The epidermal platform is tested on fingertip and forearm under varying physiological conditions. Personalized calibration models are developed and validated to obtain real‐time BG information from sweat. The estimated BG concentration showed a good correlation with measured BG concentration, with all values lying in the A+B region of consensus error grid (MARD = 10.56% (fingertip) and 13.17% (forearm)). Overall, the successful execution of such osmotically driven continuous BG monitoring system from passive sweat can be a useful addition to the next‐generation continuous sweat glucose monitors.
Training‐Augmented Ionic Switch for Logic Signal Modulation
Authors: Jia Rui , Duan Xiaozheng , Wang Kaige , Sun Fengqiang , Li Teng , Chen Zhu , Wang Le , Wang Gang , Feng Liang‐Wen , Sun Hengda , Zhu Meifang
Published: September 2024

Efficient ionic conductivity switching is crucial for the progression of iontronics, where adaptability and dynamic control are desirable to the innovation of intelligent devices. One of the main challenges in the field is to develop materials that not only transit between distinct conductive states but also exhibit evolvable properties to enhance their functional capabilities. Addressing this, a reversible phase‐transition hydrated salt crystal ionic gel (RPSIG) for innovative ionic switch design is introduced. The RPSIG demonstrates an exceptional ability to modulate its ionic conductivity, with a switching ratio able to reach 5000‐fold after training. The training effect can be attributed to the enhanced synergistic interplay between crystallites and the polymer matrix, which leads to thermodynamic stabilization of the interfacial structure and induces a higher energy cost for ion migrations. Meanwhile, the RPSIG exhibits the capability to adjust its resistive‐capacitive properties in response to phase transitions, making it a versatile component for signal processing. Further application of RPSIG in intelligent latches and multifunctional hybrid circuits enables effective logic signal transmission, highlighting its potential in pioneering the development of advanced iontronic devices.
Purple nutsedge management in tomato plasticulture: A study on the effectiveness of preemergence herbicide S‐metolachlor and its co‐application with fertilizer enhancer and chelated iron
Authors: Tiwari Ruby , Sapkota Anish , Boyd Nathan , Kanissery Ramdas
Published: September 2024

Purple nutsedge (Cyperus rotundus L.) poses a significant challenge to Florida tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) producers due to its ability to puncture plastic mulch, resilient tubers, and rapid rhizome proliferation. Preemergence herbicides effectively suppress purple nutsedge in tomatoes under plastic mulch. Although the impact of co‐application of herbicides with fertilizers has been studied in row crops, its potential in vegetable plasticulture systems remains unexplored. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness and crop safety of the preemergence herbicide S‐metolachlor, both as a standalone treatment and in combination with a fertilizer enhancer or chelated iron in tomato plasticulture. Field trials at the University of Florida's Southwest Florida Research and Education Center, Immokalee, FL, involved applying S‐metolachlor at the recommended rate of 1 kg a.i. ha−1 on raised beds before installing plastic mulch. The herbicide was applied as a blanket spray alone, mixed with fertilizer enhancer, and coated on chelated iron fertilizer. Results indicate that using S‐metolachlor alone effectively reduced purple nutsedge density compared to the nontreated control in both trials I and II. Combining S‐metolachlor with fertilizer enhancer or chelated iron resulted in a >30% and 57% reduction in purple nutsedge density, respectively, compared to the nontreated control in trial II. These treatments did not adversely impact chlorophyll content or crop yield (p > 0.05) compared to the nontreated control. Notably, tomato yield significantly (p < 0.05) decreased with increased purple nutsedge density at 4, 8, and 12 weeks after transplanting. Overall, the results from both trials suggest that using S‐metolachlor is an effective approach to reduce purple nutsedge infestation in plastic‐mulched raised beds without negatively impacting tomato health and productivity.
Enantioconvergent Cross‐Nucleophile Coupling: Copper‐Catalyzed Deborylative Cyanation
Authors: Vu Jonathan , Haug Graham C. , Li Yongxian , Zhao Biyu , Chang Christopher J. , Paton Robert S. , Dong Yuyang
Published: September 2024

Organoboron compounds are widely utilized in organic synthesis for their diverse reactivity, modular preparation, and stability compared to other classes of organometallic reagents. While organoboron species are commonly employed as nucleophiles in cross‐coupling reactions, their potential as racemic building blocks in enantioconvergent transformations remains largely untapped. Herein, we demonstrate the direct utilization of alkylboronic pinacol esters in intermolecular enantioconvergent transformations. Specifically, this work describes the development and mechanistic study of an enantioconvergent deborylative cyanation enabled by Cu catalysis. This method imparts a high degree of enantioselectivity and tolerates a wide range of common functional groups and heterocycles. The reaction is proposed to proceed through a radical‐relay mechanism. Aniline‐assisted homolysis of the carbon–boron bond results in prochiral alkyl radicals that are functionalized by in situ generated Cu(II)(CN)2 species in an enantioselective fashion. The Cu(II)(CN)2 intermediate was characterized by electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy, and its electronic structure was probed using density functional theory (DFT) calculations. Computational studies were carried out to corroborate the proposed radical‐relay mechanism.
Ultra‐Narrow Alkane Product Distribution in Polyethylene Waste Hydrocracking by Zeolite Micro‐Mesopore Diffusion Optimization
Authors: Wang Shuai , Wang Weichen , Chu Mingyu , Gao Daowei , Wang Yong , Lv Yipin , Wang Rongyao , Song Lianghao , Zhao Huaiqing , Chen Jinxing , Chen Guozhu
Published: September 2024

Plastic pollution poses a pressing environmental challenge in modern society. Chemical catalytic conversion has emerged as a promising solution for upgrading waste plastics into valuable liquid alkanes and other high value products. However, the current methods yield mixed products with a wide carbon distribution. To address this challenge, we present a bifunctional catalytic system consisting of β zeolite mixed hierarchical Pt@Hie‐TS‐1, designed for the conversion of low‐density polyethylene (LDPE) into liquid alkanes. This system achieves a 94.0 % yield of liquid alkane, with 84.8 % of C5−C7 light alkanes. Combined with in situ FTIR and molecular dynamics simulation, the shape‐selective mechanisms is elucidated, which ensures that only olefins of the appropriate size can diffuse to the encapsulated Pt sites within the zeolite for hydrogenation, resulting in an ultra‐narrow product distribution. Furthermore, by optimizing the micro‐mesopores of Pt@Hie‐TS‐1, the scaling relationship between the pore structure and the conversion/selectivity is identified. The rapid diffusion of olefins within these micro‐mesopores significantly enhances the catalytic efficiency. Our findings contribute to the design of efficient catalysts for plastic waste valorization.