bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Field Evaluation of Personal Digital Assistant Enabled by Global Positioning System
Authors: Bellemans Tom , Kochan Bruno , Janssens Davy , Wets Geert , Timmermans Harry
Published: September 2008

A custom tool, PARROTS [Personal Digital Assistant (PDA) system for Activity Registration and Recording of Travel Scheduling] was developed to collect both activity data and global positioning system (GPS) data. This tool is currently deployed in a survey carried out on 2,500 households in Flanders (Belgium). The GPS-enabled PDA data collection tool features default answers, predefined drop-down lists, and many other graphical design elements. Two types of data were collected using PARROTS: activity and travel diaries input by the respondents and location data logged by a GPS receiver. To judge the effect of the PARROTS tool on the quality of activity and travel diaries, a paper-and-pencil diary was designed and deployed as well, and various analyses were performed on both the paper-and-pencil and PDA data. For the collected GPS data, the data quality was investigated in terms of availability of location information in the logs. In addition to investigating data quality, the impact of using PDA technology on user response rates was examined and compared with response rates for the paper-and-pencil format. The PARROTS tool provided high-quality activity and travel diary data, and it enabled the collection of scheduling and rescheduling information that would be too burdensome to collect using paper-and-pencil surveys. Moreover, PARROTS was able to collect GPS-based location information, and it made the data readily available in electronic form, while keeping the burden for the respondents at an acceptable level.
Extraoperative functional mapping of motor areas in epileptic patients by high-frequency cortical stimulation
Authors: Usui Naotaka , Terada Kiyohito , Baba Koichi , Matsuda Kazumi , Tottori Takayasu , Umeoka Shuichi , Mihara Tadahiro , Nakamura Fumihiro , Usui Keiko , Inoue Yushi
Published: September 2008

Object

The aim of this study was to investigate the usefulness of a short train of high-frequency (500 Hz) cortical stimulation to delineate the primary motor cortex (MI), supplementary motor area (SMA), primary somatosensory cortex (SI), supplementary sensory area (SSA), negative motor area (NMA), and supplementary negative motor area (SNMA) in patients with epilepsy who were undergoing functional mapping.

Methods

Seventeen patients were studied, all of whom underwent functional mapping using 50-Hz electrical stimulation. After these clinical evaluations, cortical stimulations with a short train of electrical pulses at 500 Hz were performed through subdural electrodes placed at the MI, SMA, SI, SSA, NMA, and SNMA, which had been identified by 50-Hz stimulation, and surrounding cortical areas, while surface electromyography readings were recorded.

Results

Stimulation of the MI elicited motor evoked potentials (MEPs) in contralateral muscles. Stimulation of the SMA also induced MEPs in contralateral muscles but with longer latencies compared with the MI stimulation. Stimulation of the SMA did not elicit MEPs in ipsilateral muscles. Stimulation of the SI, SSA, NMA, and SNMA did not induce MEPs in any muscle. In one patient, MEPs were elicited without seizure induction by 500-Hz stimulation of the electrodes, whereas a 50-Hz stimulation of the same electrodes induced his habitual seizures.

Conclusions

Extraoperative high-frequency stimulation with MEP monitoring is a useful complementary method for cortical mapping without inducing seizure. Stimulation of SMA induces MEPs in contralateral muscles, with longer latencies compared with the stimulation of MI. This finding may be useful for the differentiation between MI and SMA, especially in the foot motor areas.
Increase in phosphorylation of Akt and its downstream signaling targets and suppression of apoptosis by simvastatin after traumatic brain injury
Authors: Wu Hongtao , Lu Dunyue , Jiang Hao , Xiong Ye , Qu Changsheng , Li Bo , Mahmood Asim , Zhou Dong , Chopp Michael
Published: September 2008

Object

In their previous studies, the authors found that simvastatin treatment of traumatic brain injury (TBI) in rats had beneficial effects on spatial learning functions. In the current study they wanted to determine whether simvastatin suppressed neuronal cell apoptosis after TBI, and if so, they wanted to examine the underlying mechanisms of this process.

Methods

Saline or simvastatin (1 mg/kg) was administered orally to rats starting on Day 1 after TBI and then daily for 14 days. Modified Neurological Severity Scores were used to evaluate the sensory motor functional recovery. Rats were killed at 1, 3, 7, 14, and 35 days after treatment, and brain tissue was harvested for terminal deoxynucleotidyl nick-end labeling (TUNEL) staining, caspase-3 activity assay, and Western blot analysis.

Results

Simvastatin significantly decreased the modified Neurological Severity Scores from Days 7 to 35 after TBI, significantly reduced the number of TUNEL-positive cells at Day 3, suppressed the caspase-3 activity at Days 1 and 3 after TBI, and increased phosphorylation of Akt as well as Forkhead transcription factor 1, inhibitory-κB, and endothelial nitric oxide synthase, which are the downstream targets of the prosurvival Akt signaling protein.

Conclusions

These data suggested that simvastatin reduces the apoptosis in neuronal cells and improves the sensory motor function recovery after TBI. These beneficial effects of simvastatin may be mediated through activation of Akt, Forkhead transcription factor 1 and nuclear factor–κB signaling pathways, which suppress the activation of caspase-3 and apoptotic cell death, and thereby, lead to neuronal function recovery after TBI.
Risk and value chains: Participant sharing of risk and rewards
Authors: Preckel Paul V. , Gray Allan , Boehlje Michael , Kim Sounghun
Published: September 2008

Much discussion, analysis and experimentation with various forms of value chain coordination has occurred, but often, these business arrangements have not been sustainable. We address the important role that risk/reward sharing plays in developing sustainable value chains. The discussion will: 1) describe an analytical framework for determining the optimal risk/reward sharing between partners in a value chain, and 2) illustrate the application of the framework to contractual arrangements between producers and processors in the pork industry. We find that contract structures must balance the risk/reward preferences of both producers and processors in order to be sustainable.
An integrated perspective on alliance management
Authors: Duysters Geert , Heimeriks Koen H. , Jurriëns Jan A.
Published: September 2008

Alliance management has been on the agenda of management scholars and corporations for many years now. In spite of the growing attention that the academic and management literature has paid to many aspects of alliance management, track records of alliances are still poor. It can therefore be argued that the academic and management literature has been unable to unveil the secret ingredients of alliance success. In the past decades, academic research has identified three main levels of analysis in the field of alliances i.e. the dyadic perspective, the firm level and the network level. With a few exceptions the current body of literature discusses these three main levels of alliance management in isolation of each other. The combined effect of these different levels of alliance management has been largely neglected. In order to fill this void we argue that successful alliance management requires a profound understanding of all three levels of alliance management and their interaction. From this perspective, the contributions made by the different streams of alliance research are not autonomous, but are inherently interrelated.
Transparency in netchains as an organizational phenomenon: exploring the role of interdependencies
Authors: Theuvsen Ludwig
Published: September 2008

Transparency has become a buzzword in the analysis of food chains. This paper analyzes the transparency of food chains from an organizational point of view by referring to the concept of interdependencies. It is argued that a lack of transparency can be rooted in the number and the coordination requirements of inter-company process interdependencies, which on their part result from the division of labor in food chains. Empirical evidence is taken from the German meat industry. The paper suggests some organizational solutions for improving transparency in netchains.
Export contracts for non-traditional products: Chayote from Costa Rica
Authors: Saenz Fernando , Ruben Ruerd
Published: September 2008

This paper focuses on the determinants of market and contract choice for non-traditional crops and the possibilities for involving local producers in global agro-food chains through delivery relationships with packers and brokers. Main attention is given to the importance of quality for entering the export market and the impact of contractual arrangements on loyal behaviour. Core stipulations in the contract regarding the frequency of delivery and the provision of technical assistance are mediating factors between quality and loyalty. The study among traditional and recently established producers of chayote in Costa Rica confirms the importance of production scale and experience for engagement in exports. The export share is positively related to quality performance but inversely related to delivery frequency and sales at the local market. Apparently, traditional producers rely on market diversification to maintain a certain bargaining power vis-à-vis traders and processors. Verbal contractual arrangements are mainly offered to newly established but less-experienced farmers living in settlements that try to reduce risk and demonstrate a high commitment. These farmers cultivate on better soils and have more family labour available. Further quality improvement requires technical assistance and a high frequency of delivery. Supplier arrangements that guarantee timely collection, input support and flexible credit services are therefore of critical importance. Additional support from packers and exporters could enable farmers to improve product quality and is likely to be rewarded. with a high degree of loyalty.
Chain quality information management: development of a reference model for quality information requirements in pork chains
Authors: Althoff Gereon , Ellebrecht Alexander , Petersen Brigitte
Published: September 2008

As in many food chains, pork production is carried out in heterogeneous chain scenarios with diverse organisational arrangements. Inter-organisational information management systems have not yet been established in pork production even though they provide a chance to improve chain-wide cooperation and quality management.

This article presents the concept and first results of a sub-project in an ongoing Dutch-German collaborative research and development project of the public-private network "GIQS e.V." that develops tools for improved quality and health management in pork chains. In this sub-project a chain quality information system was designed, implemented and validated in three pilot chains in Germany and the Netherlands. The major result is a comprehensive implementation guideline for chains that want to improve their use of chain quality information in their quality and health management. The aim of this study was to identify chain actors' information requirements, taking into account the existing organisational heterogeneity in the pork industry. The theoretical framework of this paper integrates the netchain model with the process approach of ISO 9000:2000. The focus lies on describing a general structure of a chain-wide information system. The concept of inter-enterprise data warehousing is adopted for quality management in food chains. Based on this concept, a "natural language" reference model for information requirements in pork netchains was generated. The reference model was adapted to three separate pilot chains. This paper presents the results obtained by implementing the model in one of the pilot chains, with a special focus on improving animal health management and supporting risk-based meat inspection with chain-wide information management.
Strategies for collaboration in new product development
Authors: Mark-Herbert Cecilia
Published: September 2008

In the past decades Swedish food companies have faced increasing competition. One way of gaining competitive advantage is to find new ways of creating added value based on technological development. This may lead to the production of valueadded products, profits from licensing agreements and a boost for the company image.

Businesses that want to succeed in this market also need to develop new managerial methods, in particular in identifying critical technologies and strategic collaboration partners. The presented case studies provide examples of building internal skills, employing innovative external sourcing, developing new markets with strong brands and establishing networks and alliances for new product development.
The demand planning process
Authors: Bonde Hans , Hvolby Hans-Henrik
Published: September 2008

In this paper, demand planning is discussed from a process point of view. Demand planning is not only forecasting but goes beyond, as it combines quantitative forecasting with a causal forecasting approach to plan demand by changing factors within pricing, marketing or selling. A four-phase demand planning process model is introduced, which consists of modeling, forecasting, demand planning and supply planning. The core of the process is a demand planning tool, which allows the combination of quantitative, causal and judgmental forecasting. Finally, some thoughts are given on how SMEs can develop their current forecasting practice when implementing demand planning as a strategic and tactical tool.
The potential of RFID in warehousing activities in a retail industry supply chain
Authors: Lefebvre Louis , Lefebvre Élisabeth , Bendavid Ygal , Wamba Samuel , Boeck Harold
Published: September 2008

The main objective of this pilot study is to improve our understanding of the potential of RFID in the context of warehousing activities in one specific supply chain in the retail industry. Empirical data was gathered from four tightly inter-related firms from three layers of the supply chain. Results indicate that RFID appears to be a disruptive technology as it supports a new business model, entails major redesign of existing processes and fosters a higher level of electronic integration between supply chain members.
Optimal provision of food quality attributes
Authors: Baker Derek
Published: September 2008

The paper examines the incentives and mechanisms for provision of food quality attributes within the food marketing chain. A mathematical program is used to model two objective specifications: one maximising whole-chain profits and the other maximising profits at the single stage of the chain at which provision occurs. Scenarios presented include a range of technological conditions at different stages of the food chain and the allocation of retail price premia amongst stages. Indicative Danish food industry data are used. Results list provision outcomes, profitability and its distribution amongst chain participants, and LaGrangian multiplier values. The different forms of scope economies at different stages of the chain have important implications for provision: particularly in the single stage model. Shares of price premia have little impact on provision in the whole chain model, but are very influential in the single stage model. Commercial and policy applications of the research include its focus on within-chain compensation, and the identification of appropriate targets and levels for subsidies.
Organisational learning in an Australian food industry chain
Authors: (Tony) Dunne A.
Published: September 2008

This paper reports on a longitudinal study that focused on examining the transformational change process undertaken within a major Australian food manufacturing company. Organisational learning is an essential prerequisite for any successful change process and an organisation's ability to learn is dependent on the existence of an environment within the organisation that nurtures learning and the presence of key enablers that facilitate the learning process. An organisation's capacity to learn can be enhanced through its ability to form and sustain collaborative relationships with its chain partners. The results of this study confirm that the process of organisational change is difficult to achieve, takes time, requires dedicated resources and occurs at a differential rate throughout an organisation. The results also demonstrated that the change process had a positive impact on the organisation's ability to build and sustain relationships with its main supply chain partners. The fact that the majority of these relationships remained focused on improving operational alignment and cost reduction indicated that collaborative chain relationships are difficult to establish.
Transparency in food supply chains: empirical results from German pig and dairy production
Authors: Deimel Mark , Frentrup Mechthild , Theuvsen Ludwig
Published: September 2008

Food supply chains have been faced with increasing requirements for transparency in recent years. However, evaluating the status quo of transparency of netchains entails measurement problems, since transparency is a multifaceted phenomenon as well as a latent variable. In this paper we present a measurement model that integrates various perspectives on transparency and, moreover, considers various measurement concepts. This model provides a theoretical basis for the empirical analysis of transparency in German pig and dairy production, which reveals interesting differences between the two sectors as perceived by farmers. The model and the empirical results deliver a more comprehensive understanding of the determinants and effects of various degrees of transparency in food supply chains.
Trust conditional on governance structure: theory and evidence from case studies
Authors: Fritz Melanie , Martino Gaetano , Surci Giulio
Published: September 2008

The paper proposes the idea that trust-based relationships can be established within the specific governance structures chosen by the agents. The theoretical background of this paper spans the literature from transaction cost and contract theory to supplier relationship management and trust theory. First communication and experience, risk perception attitude and the trade-off between trust and control are discussed within the analysis of trust source factors. Then these elements are considered in the light of Transaction Cost Economics. Three case studies are then presented in order to corroborate the theoretical proposition.
Can strategic alliances in food processing increase the technical efficiency of housewives groups in Thailand?
Authors: Nonthakot Phanin , Villano Renato , Fleming Euan
Published: September 2008

An assessment is made of the effects of strategic alliances, among other factors, on the performance of community-based food processing enterprises in the northern province of Thailand. Using survey data, we estimate a stochastic frontier production function and examine a number of factors affecting technical inefficiency of housewives groups focusing on the nature of strategic alliances. Our results show that vertical strategic alliances in marketing at the regional and provincial levels provide a means for housewives groups to increase productivity by attaining higher levels of technical efficiency through membership.
Impact of feed-borne mycotoxins on avian cell-mediated and humoral immune responses
Authors: Girish C. , Smith T.
Published: September 2008

Mycotoxins of economic importance in poultry production are mainly produced by Aspergillus, Penicillium and Fusarium fungi. The important mycotoxins in poultry production are aflatoxins, ochratoxins, trichothecenes, zearalenone and fumonisins. Mycotoxins exert their immunotoxic effects through various mechanisms which are manifested as reduced response of the immune system. Mycotoxin-induced immunosuppression in poultry may be manifested as decreased antibody production to antigens (e.g. sheep red blood cells) and impaired delayed hypersensitivity response (e.g. dinitrochlorobenzene), reduction in systemic bacterial clearance (e.g. Salmonella, Brucella, Listeria and Escherichia), lymphocyte proliferation (response to mitogens), macrophage phagocytotic ability, and alterations in CD4+/CD8+ ratio, immune organ weights (spleen, thymus and bursa of Fabricius), and histological changes (lymphocyte depletion, degeneration and necrosis). Mycotoxins, especially fumonisin B1 have been shown to down regulate proinflammatory cytokine levels including those of interferon (IFN)-γ, IFN-α, interleukin (IL)-1β, and IL-2 in broiler chickens. Fusarium mycotoxins exert part of their toxic effects by altering cytokine production in poultry. Mycotoxins adversely affect intestinal barrier functions by reducing the intestinal epithelial integrity and removing tight junction proteins. Apoptosis, increased colonisation of pathogenic microorganisms, cytotoxicity and oxidative stress, inhibition of protein synthesis and lipid peroxidation are characteristic of the toxic effects of mycotoxins on intestinal epithelium. These directly or indirectly affect host immune responses. Such immunotoxic effects of mycotoxins render poultry susceptible to many infectious diseases. The avian immune system is sensitive to most mycotoxins. Both cell-mediated and humoral immunity may be adversely affected after feeding mycotoxins to poultry. The avian immune system may be more sensitive to naturally contaminated feedstuffs because of the presence of multiple mycotoxins and the complex interactions between them which can cause severe adverse effects. Adverse effects of mycotoxins on the immune system reduce production and performance resulting in economic losses to poultry industries. Caution must be exercised while feeding grains contaminated with mycotoxins.
Rapid acoustic screening of deoxynivalenol (DON) in grain
Authors: Juodeikiene G. , Basinskiene L. , Vidmantiene D. , Bartkiene E. , Kunigelis V. , de Koe W.
Published: September 2008

A novel, fast, non-invasive, cheap and quantitative technique to detect deoxynivalenol (DON) in cereal grains is described. This technique is completely different from currently applied wet chemistry techniques and is based on acoustic waves penetrating through and/or reflected by air-filled porous materials such as unconsolidated solid beads of grain. The rapid acoustic technique has been tested for the quantitative determination of DON in wheat. Two types of equipment were used: an acoustic spectrometer with transmission and an acoustic impulse spectrometer with transmission and reflection. To increase the accuracy of the analysis and optimise the acoustic signal an optimal frequency has been determined for both spectrometers. High correlations between DON contaminated wheat samples and the different amounts of shrivelled kernels in mixtures determined by the acoustic technique have been found. The statistical analysis shows that the acoustic method gives sufficiently precise results in the quantitative determination of DON in grain. The technique with in- and on-line capabilities can therefore be used to screen DON in contaminated wheat at point of harvest. Because it is fit for monitoring and high-throughput analysis, the technique solves some of the problems commonly associated with sampling and analysis.
Microbial transformation of trichothecene mycotoxins
Authors: Zhou T. , He J. , Gong J.
Published: September 2008

Trichothecene mycotoxins produced by the Fusarium genus are highly toxic to humans and animals. They are
commonly found in cereals worldwide, which is not only a concern for food safety, but also highly relevant to the
livestock industry. Controlling trichothecenes in food and feed has been a challenge since the toxins are markedly
stable under different environmental conditions. Thermal processing is usually ineffective, and chemical treatments
generally are expensive and often result in side effects. Previous studies on innovative biological approaches, such
as the use of microorganisms and enzymes, to convert the toxins into non or less toxic compounds have shown
promise. This review will briefly describe the chemical structures and toxicity of trichothecenes, and examine
the microorganisms, including both bacteria and fungi, from various natural sources that are able to detoxify the
toxins as either mixed cultures or a pure culture of single isolates. Finally, challenges and innovative strategies in
the development of technology to detoxify trichothecenes by microorganisms are described.
2-Amino-14,16-dimethyloctadecan-3-ol: in vitro bioactivity and bio-production by the fungus Fusarium avenaceum
Authors: Uhlig S. , Ivanova L. , Bernhoft A. , Eriksen G.
Published: September 2008

2-Amino-14,16-dimethyloctadecan-3-ol (2-AOD-3-ol) belongs to the class of sphingosine analogue toxins, which
is a class of toxins that is known among several fungal genera and some lower marine animals. Many sphingosine
analogues have been shown to inhibit ceramide synthase through structural similarities with the substrates of the
enzyme. The adverse effects of some analogues, e.g. the fumonisins, are a result of ceramide synthase inhibition.
The primary aim of this work was to generate basic knowledge on the toxicity of 2-AOD-3-ol in vitro. The human
hepatocarcinoma cell line Hep G2 and horse erythrocytes were used in order to achieve this aim. The second aim
of this work was to gain insight into the capabilities of the fungus Fusarium avenaceum, a common contaminant of
grain in Scandinavia, to produce the toxin under laboratory conditions on different grain species, and in the field.
The metabolite was found to be cytotoxic in several assays (lower µM-range) that measure general cytotoxicity
(Alamar Blue" assay, Neutral Red uptake, LDH leakage), but did not inhibit ceramide synthase as measured by the
increase of the sphinganine/sphingosine ratio. The cellular membrane was likewise not found to be a primary target
of the molecule. Strains of F. avenaceum produced up to 6.3 mg/g of 2-AOD-3-ol on wheat grain under controlled
conditions in the laboratory, while only low amounts (<56 µg/kg) could be found in field samples.
Development and single laboratory validation of a method for patulin determination in fruit juices
Authors: Kawamoto Y. , Bandoh S. , Higashihara K. , Miyagawa H. , Goto T.
Published: September 2008

Patulin contamination is known in various fruit products, including apple products. In this study, a solid phase
extraction clean-up method was developed and validated for patulin in various fruit juices. Patulin was extracted
from samples with ethyl acetate and then diluted with hexane. Patulin was isolated with a silica gel cartridge column,
then analysed by reverse phase liquid chromatography with UV detection. The detection and quantitation limits were
0.06 and 0.15 ng, respectively. Recoveries within a day, and between days, were determined. Within day recoveries
of patulin (n=6) at 5.0 and 50.0 µg/kg were 96-105% and 89-95%, respectively, with relative standard deviations
(RSD) of 2.4-6.9 and 0.7-1.7%, respectively. Between day recoveries at 5.0 and 50.0 µg/kg were 96-108% and 92-94%,
respectively, with RSDs of 7.1-12.1 and 2.3-4.1%, respectively. Average recoveries of patulin in the range from 2.0
to 80.0 µg/kg were 114 to 93%.
Fungal mycoflora and contamination of maize from Vietnam with aflatoxin B1 and fumonisin B1
Authors: Trung T. , Tabuc C. , Bailly S. , Querin A. , Guerre P. , Bailly J.
Published: September 2008

Twenty five samples of maize intended for human or animal consumption coming from North, Central and South
Vietnam were analysed for fungal contamination and for the presence of aflatoxin B1 and fumonisin B1. The total
fungal load was found to be greater in maize intended for animal feed than for human consumption with average
levels of 4x106 and 7x105 CFU/g, respectively. Identification of fungal strains revealed that Aspergillus was the most frequent genus, found in all maize samples whatever their intended use or their geographic origin. Among the Aspergillus species, A. flavus was the most frequent contaminant, observed in more than 90% of the samples. Other fungal strains found in the Vietnamese maize samples belonged to Penicillium species, Fusarium verticillioides and to the Mucorales, and were found in up to 53, 33 and 23% of the samples, respectively. All samples were tested for both aflatoxin and fumonisin contamination. Aflatoxin B1 was found in 17 samples (68%). Five of these samples showed aflatoxin B1 levels below 10 µg/kg, ten samples were found to be contaminated in a range of 11.3 to 47.2 µg/kg, and 2 samples showed contamination levels of 98.4 and 126.5 µg/kg, respectively. The maize samples for human consumption were found frequently contaminated with aflatoxin B1 (77%), but the level of contamination was lower than those for animal consumption. Fumonisin B1 contamination was found in 8 out of 25 samples (32%). Detected amounts of fumonisin B1 ranged from 0.4 to 3.3 mg/kg.
Modelling the colonisation of maize by toxigenic and non-toxigenic Aspergillus flavus strains: implications for biological control
Authors: Abbas H. , Zablotowicz R. , Bruns H.
Published: September 2008

To successfully exploit biological control it is desirable to understand how the introduced agent colonises the host and interferes with establishment of the pest. This study assessed field colonisation of maize by Aspergillus flavus strains as biological control agents to reduce aflatoxin contamination. Maize (corn, Zea mays L.) ears were inoculated with A. flavus using a pin-bar technique in 2004 and 2005. Non-aflatoxigenic strains K49 (NRRL 30797) & CT3 (NRRL 30798) and toxigenic F3W4 (NRRL 30798) were compared against a carrier control (0.2% aqueous Tween 20). Ten ears were sampled over 12 to 20 days, visually assessed, and curves fit to a three compartment Gompertz equation or other best appropriate regressions. Aflatoxin was determined by HPLC and cyclopiazonic acid (CPA) by LC/MS. The Gompertz model describes growth parameters, e.g. growth constant, lag phase and maximum colonisation characterised patterns of maize colonisation for most inoculated treatments. Aflatoxin accumulation in maize inoculated with F3W4 was about 35,000 ng/g in 2004 and 2005, with kinetics of aflatoxin accumulation in 2005 well described by the Gompertz equation. Less than 200 ng/g was observed in maize inoculated with strains CT3 & K49 and accumulation was described by a linear or logistic model. Maize inoculated with strains CT3 and F3W4 accumulated a maximum of 220 and 169 µg/kg CPA, respectively, compared to 22 and 0.2 µg/kg in the control and K49 inoculated, respectively. This technique can be used to elucidate colonisation potential of non-toxigenic A. flavus in maize in relation to biological control of aflatoxin. The greatest reduction of aflatoxin and CPA in maize inoculated with strain K49 and Gompertz parameters on colonisation indicates its superiority to CT3 as a biological control agent. The dynamics of maize colonisation by A. flavus strains and subsequent mycotoxin accumulation generated by using the pin-bar technique has implications for characterising the competence of biocontrol strains for reducing aflatoxin contamination.
Good Enough
Authors: Rissman Lauren
Published: April 2024

In this narrative medicine essay, a pediatric critical care physician mulls a discussion about a patient’s status with a male colleague in front of her all-female medical team, a discussion that led her to question herself until she concludes that she can’t be all things to all people at all times.
MMP‐9‐dependent proteolysis of the histone H3 N‐terminal tail: a critical epigenetic step in driving oncogenic transcription and colon tumorigenesis
Authors: Shin Yonghwan , Kim Sungmin , Liang Gangning , An Woojin
Published: April 2024

Matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP‐9) is a member of the MMP family and has been recently identified as a nuclear protease capable of clipping histone H3 N‐terminal tails (H3NT). This MMP‐9‐dependent H3NT proteolysis is critical for establishing an active state of gene transcription during osteoclast differentiation and melanoma development. However, whether H3NT cleavage by MMP‐9 plays a similar role in other cellular events has not been explored. Here, we dissect the functional contribution of MMP‐9‐dependent H3NT clipping to colonic tumorigenesis by using a combination of genome‐wide transcriptome data, ChIP/ChIPac‐qPCR, CRISPR/dCas9 gene‐targeting system, and in vivo xenograft models. We show that MMP‐9 is overexpressed in colon cancer cells and catalyzes H3NT proteolysis to drive transcriptional activation of growth stimulatory genes. Our studies using knockdown and inhibition approaches clearly indicate that MMP‐9 mediates transcriptional activation and promotes colonic tumorigenesis in a manner dependent on its protease activity toward H3NT. Remarkably, artificial H3NT proteolysis at target gene promoters with dCAS9‐MMP‐9 is sufficient for establishing their transcriptional competence in colon cancer cells, underscoring the importance of MMP‐9‐dependent H3NT proteolysis per se in the transactivation process. Our data establish new functions and mechanisms for MMP‐9 in driving the oncogenic transcription program in colon cancer through H3NT proteolysis, and demonstrate how this epigenetic pathway can be exploited as a potential therapeutic target for cancer treatment.
The use and significance of social capital and informal learning in postsecondary STEM education
Authors: Han Caleb Seung‐hyun , Chai Dae Seok
Published: April 2024

Despite intense interest in how social capital can facilitate informal learning, few attempts have been made to synthesize the interface between social capital and informal learning. Social capital is an important factor in the application of informal learning, especially in postsecondary science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education. This paper first presents a review of the literature that has explored the relationship between social capital and informal learning in STEM education. We then present two case studies illustrating how social capital plays a pivotal role in enhancing informal learning outcomes in postsecondary STEM education. These cases offer insights on how to promote optimal informal learning in STEM education. Implications for understanding the importance of social capital in informal learning are discussed.
Sterically Twisted Mitochondria‐Targeting Photosensitizers for Augmented Near‐Infrared II Fluorescence‐Guided Photodynamic Immunotherapy
Authors: Yu Jin‐Feng , Wen Yu , Li Ming
Published: April 2024

Near‐infrared (NIR) fluorescent mitochondria‐targeting photosensitizers (PSs) hold great potential for efficient image‐guided cancer phototherapy, but it remains challenging to develop PSs concurrently integrating high‐contrast NIR‐II fluorescence imaging and efficient therapeutic capabilities. Herein, a heptamethine cyanine (HCy) PS (termed I2HCy‐TPE nanoparticles (NPs)) by a molecular engineering strategy combining the heavy atom effect and structural distortion is reported. The heavy atom iodine is introduced to boost the intersystem crossing process, and the bulky tetraphenylethylene (TPE) moiety placed at the meso‐position of the heptamethine chain creates a highly distorted conformation in I2HCy‐TPE, theoretically verified by density functional theory calculations. This strategy synergistically promotes the 1O2 generation efficiency and assure the strong NIR fluorescence emission in aggregated states. Combining with the intrinsic mitochondria‐targeting capability, I2HCy‐TPE NPs are able to cause mitochondria‐targeted damage of cancer cells via the PDT and immunogenetic cell death‐triggered immune responses under NIR laser irradiation. In vivo experiments demonstrate that the biocompatible I2HCy‐TPE NPs present exceptional capability for in vivo NIR‐II fluorescence bioimaging of whole‐body and blood vessels, and exert efficient NIR‐II fluorescence‐guided photodynamic immunotherapy against triple‐negative breast cancer.
Never‐Ending Learning for Explainable Brain Computing
Authors: Kuai Hongzhi , Chen Jianhui , Tao Xiaohui , Cai Lingyun , Imamura Kazuyuki , Matsumoto Hiroki , Liang Peipeng , Zhong Ning
Published: April 2024

Exploring the nature of human intelligence and behavior is a longstanding pursuit in cognitive neuroscience, driven by the accumulation of knowledge, information, and data across various studies. However, achieving a unified and transparent interpretation of findings presents formidable challenges. In response, an explainable brain computing framework is proposed that employs the never‐ending learning paradigm, integrating evidence combination and fusion computing within a Knowledge‐Information‐Data (KID) architecture. The framework supports continuous brain cognition investigation, utilizing joint knowledge‐driven forward inference and data‐driven reverse inference, bolstered by the pre‐trained language modeling techniques and the human‐in‐the‐loop mechanisms. In particular, it incorporates internal evidence learning through multi‐task functional neuroimaging analyses and external evidence learning via topic modeling of published neuroimaging studies, all of which involve human interactions at different stages. Based on two case studies, the intricate uncertainty surrounding brain localization in human reasoning is revealed. The present study also highlights the potential of systematization to advance explainable brain computing, offering a finer‐grained understanding of brain activity patterns related to human intelligence.
Water‐Ice Microstructures and Hydration States of Acridinium Iodide Studied by Phosphorescence Spectroscopy
Authors: Liu Hongping , Su Hao , Chen Ning , Cen Jie , Tan Jiajia , Zhang Baicheng , Chen Xiaoyu , Cheng Aoyuan , Fu Shengquan , Zhou Xiaoguo , Liu Shilin , Zhang Xuepeng , Liu Shiyong , Luo Yi , Zhang Guoqing
Published: April 2024

Ice has been suggested to have played a significant role in the origin of life partly owing to its ability to concentrate organic molecules and promote reaction efficiency. However, the techniques for studying organic molecules in ice are absorption‐based, which limits the sensitivity of measurements. Here we introduce an emission‐based method to study organic molecules in water ice: the phosphorescence displays high sensitivity depending on the hydration state of an organic salt probe, acridinium iodide (ADI). The designed ADI aqueous system exhibits phosphorescence that can be severely perturbed when the temperature is higher than 110 K at a concentration of the order of 10−5 M, indicating changes in hydration for ADI. Using the ADI phosphorescent probe, it is found that the microstructures of water ice, i.e., crystalline vs. glassy, can be strongly dictated by a trace amount (as low as 10−5 M) of water‐soluble organic molecules. Consistent with cryoSEM images and temperature‐dependent Raman spectral data, the ADI is dehydrated in more crystalline ice and hydrated in more glassy ice. The current investigation serves as a starting point for using more sensitive spectroscopic techniques for studying water‐organics interactions at a much lower concentration and wider temperature range.
Luminescent metal–organic frameworks for ultrasensitive detection of pesticide and biomarker: In situ imaging and real field application
Authors: Patel Krupa U. , Kanzariya Dashrathbhai B. , Chaudhary Meetkumar Y. , Pal Tapan K.
Published: April 2024

Frequent uses of pesticides for agricultural led to the environmental pollution and ultimately threaten the human body. On the other hand, the monitoring of the biomarker at the optimum level is also very imperative for human health. So the investigation of smart materials is very essential for visual and on‐site monitoring of pesticide and biomarker. In this regard, we have synthesized highly fluorescent MOF (ZnATA, 1) oriented with free‐NH2 functionality as a guest functional moiety. Framework 1 showed the selective and sensitive ratiometric detection of biomarker riboflavin (RBF). Further, sensor 1 exhibited the discriminating recognition of pesticide 2,6‐dichloro‐4‐nitroaniline (DCNA). The detection limit for both RBF and DCNA is very excellent, and the values are 0.13 and 0.07 ppm, respectively. The detection of RBF and DCNA is very fast (within 3 s) and has been realized through colorimetric response and by cost‐effective paper strip method. Interestingly, the sensor displayed the visual and on‐site (in situ imaging by using real fruit and vegetable) recognition of “DCNA” within 3 s. Sensor 1 further demonstrated the recognition of DCNA in different real field sample (environmental water sample) and RBF in food samples (milk and vitamin B2 tablet). The mechanism of sensing for DCNA and RBF has been comprehended through the occurrence of photo‐induced electron transfer, forster resonance energy transfer, and inert filter effect. Further, the recognition mechanism is justified by the theoretical study. The presence of free‐NH2 moiety in the linker of MOF is possibly to establish a strong supramolecular interaction with the analytes.
Ligand‐promoted dehydrogenative coupling of γ‐/β‐amino alcohols with ketones to N‐heterocycles via molybdenum catalysts
Authors: Wang Yuanyuan , Ma Ning , Yan Xiuli , Li Libin , Lin Qing , Han Peng , Zhao Bin , Mahmood Qaiser , Liu Qingbin , Wang Zheng
Published: April 2024

Molybdenum‐based efficient and broadly applicable catalytic system is presented for the dehydrogenative coupling of γ‐/β‐amino alcohols with ketones. In particular, complex Mo(CO)6 in combination with Xantphos and t‐BuOK as base provides direct synthesis of structurally diverse quinoline, pyridine, and pyrrole compounds (total 55 examples) with isolated yields up to 92%. Low catalyst loading, cost‐effective, and high catalytic activities with high tolerance to stand with diverse functional groups are additional features of these molybdenum catalysts exhibiting high efficacy to replace the precious metal catalysts such as ruthenium and iridium. Furthermore, the DFT and experimental studies were explored for the reaction mechanism which can assist in broadening the scope of the molybdenum catalysts for different transformation reactions.
Turtles for the ancestors: A zooarchaeological study of ritual deposits on Fakahina, Tuamotu archipelago (French Polynesia)
Authors: Claringbold Iona , Carro Sofia Samper , Molle Guillaume
Published: April 2024

Rituals and feasting ceremonies at Polynesianmaraedepict culturally complex relationships between humans and animals that cannot be explained by subsistence alone. In Central‐East Polynesia, this topic still requires the elaboration of a “ritual zooarchaeology” framework. Using sea turtle assemblages from three sacred sites on Fakahina atoll (Tuamotu), this study offers a preliminary approach to faunal deposits from ritual contexts. Following systematic excavations ofmaraeon Fakahina, analysis aimed to determine whether faunal deposits could be linked with intentional feasting and offering behaviours. To detect how ritual actions were organised through space, skeletal and taphonomic variables were examined for both overall sites and “sub‐assemblages” within sites based on the spatial associations of fauna with site features.

At certain site features, derived quantitative units such as %MAU and recovery rate could identify potential offering behaviours through the intentional sorting of culturally significant body parts. The taphonomic signatures of site features could also identify open or closed deposition environments, assisting with the identification of disturbed features as either exposed platforms or enclosed cists. In addition to highlighting previously undocumented complexity in the use of site features, an overall comparison of turtle remains from the three sites shows the potential of these methods to explore variation in ritual practices.
Linking plant functional traits to biodiversity under environmental change
Authors: Liu Hui , Yin Deyi , He Pengcheng , Cadotte Marc W. , Ye Qing
Published: April 2024

Understanding the mechanisms underpinning the origins, patterns and dynamics of biodiversity is fundamental in biology and ecology. Trait‐based ecology emphasizes the importance of functional traits in community assembly and ecosystem properties, however, functional traits can also provide links with biodiversity at broader temporal and spatial scales. Here, we proposed a perspective of using functional traits to analyze and predict biodiversity from different ecological dimensions, along with the influences of evolution and environment. We summarized current research progress on roles of plant functional traits in species adaptation and coexistence, biodiversity‐ecosystem functioning, species distribution and global biodiversity, in order to integrate a functional approach to investigate biodiversity, and then discussed future trends of biodiversity studies under environmental change.
Mesenchymal stem cells derived‐exosomes enhanced amniotic membrane extract promotes corneal keratocyte proliferation
Authors: Erkoc‐Biradli Fatma Zehra , Erenay Berkay , Ozgun Alp , Öztatlı Hayriye , Işık Ferda , Ateş Utku , Rasier Rıfat , Garipcan Bora
Published: April 2024

Amniotic membrane extract (AME) and Wharton's jelly mesenchymal stem cells derived‐exosomes (WJ‐MSC‐Exos) are promising therapeutic solutions explored for their potential in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine, particularly in skin and corneal wound healing applications. AME is an extract form of human amniotic membrane and known to contain a plethora of cytokines and growth factors, making it a highly attractive option for topical applications. Similarly, WJ‐MSC‐Exos have garnered significant interest for their wound healing properties. Although WJ‐MSC‐Exos and AME have been used separately for wound healing research, their combined synergistic effects have not been studied extensively. In this study, we evaluated the effects of both AME and WJ‐MSC‐Exos, individually and together, on the proliferation of corneal keratocytes as well as their ability to promote in vitro cell migration, wound healing, and their impact on cellular morphology. Our findings indicated that the presence of both exosomes (3 × 105 Exo/mL) and AME (50 μg/mL) synergistically enhance the proliferation of corneal keratocytes. Combined use of these solutions (3 × 105 Exo/mL + 50 μg/mL) increased cell proliferation compared to only 50 μg/mL AME treatment on day 3 (**** p < 0.0001). This mixture treatment (3 × 105 Exo/mL + 50 μg/mL) increased wound closure rate compared to isolated WJ‐MSC‐Exo treatment (3 × 105 Exo/mL) (*p < 0.05). Overall, corneal keratocytes treated with AME and WJ‐MSC‐Exo (3 × 105 Exo/mL + 50 μg/mL) mixture resulted in enhanced proliferation and wound healing tendency. Utilization of combined use of AME and WJ‐MSC‐Exo can pave the way for a promising foundation for corneal repair research.
Crystallization Assisted Dynamic Kinetic Resolution for the Synthesis of (R)‐β‐Methylphenethylamine
Authors: Belov Feodor , Gazizova Alina , Bork Hannah , Gröger Harald , von Langermann Jan
Published: April 2024

This study explores a combination of the concept of enantioselective enzymatic synthesis of β‐chiral amines through transamination with in situ product crystallization (ISPC) to overcome product inhibition. Using 2‐phenylpropanal as a readily available and easily racemizing substrate of choice, (R)‐β‐methylphenethylamine ((R)‐2‐phenylpropan‐1‐amine) concentrations of up to 250 mM and enantiomeric excesses of up to 99 % are achieved when using a commercially available transaminase from Ruegeria pomeroyi in a fed‐batch based dynamic kinetic resolution reaction on preparative scale. The source of substrate decomposition during the reaction is also investigated and the resulting unwanted byproduct formation is successfully reduced to insignificant levels.