bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Application of Emergency Response Difficulty Coefficient Developed by Tokyo Metropolitan Government for Seismic Community Risk Assessment to Korea
Authors: Kim Dongwoo , Lee Jinmi , Kim Hyewon , Lee Young-Joo
Published: October 2023

The extent of damage to a community from an earthquake depends on the existing road infrastructure and space for disaster response activities. The Bureau of Urban Development of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government has assessed the seismic vulnerability and risk to communities, and announced the results approximately every five years since 1975. The present study investigates the assessment methods used last three times by focusing on the emergency response difficulty coefficient. The methods are then applied to a community in the Republic of Korea as a pilot. Subsequently, it is observed that the results of application in Korea are similar to those in the Tokyo Metropolitan city.
Analyzing Downstream Flooding Effects Due to Small-Scale Reservoir Destruction Using Flow-R
Authors: Kim Hayong , Park Yoonkyung , Joo Jingul
Published: October 2023

The frequency of abnormal weather patterns owing to climate change and the aging of reservoirs are contributing to an increase in dam failures, particularly of small-scale agricultural reservoirs. Dam collapses can lead to significant human and material damage downstream, even in the case of small-scale reservoirs. Therefore, alongside systematic maintenance of aging reservoirs, establishing emergency response plans for dam failures is imperative. However, application of existing dam failure models requires a substantial amount of time and resources, making it challenging to implement for small-scale reservoirs. In this study, the Flow-R model, which can estimate downstream damage areas using only digital topographic maps, was employed to calculate the extent of downstream damage resulting from the collapse of small-scale reservoirs. Five scenarios were analyzed based on the extent of reservoir destruction (ranging from 10% to 100%). The results revealed that the inundation area varied depending on the topography downstream of the reservoir. This study proposes an affordable and straightforward method for estimating damage downstream of reservoirs, even when limited data are available regarding the reservoirs. Thus, this study can be utilized in the development of emergency response plans for small-scale agricultural reservoirs.
Improving the Reliability of Safety Barrier Crash Analysis
Authors: Lee Jaehyuk , Koo Soyeon , Yun Jiseop , Kang Byeongchan , Kim Sungtae
Published: October 2023

Recent changes in the traffic environment, particularly about vehicle weight and size, have coincided with improvements in vehicle driving performance. and cases of overspeed driving due to time constraints. Consequently, the importance of the safety barriers installed to mitigate damage when a vehicle departs from the road has grown. The reliability of crash analysis used in the safety barrier design and development remains uncertain due to the absence of an established verification and validation process. This study aims to enhance the reliability of crash analysis for safety barriers by investigating the standards of developed foreign countries and previous research results. This investigation was used to propose a verification and validation process for crash analysis of safety barriers. The proposed process aims to improve the reliability of crash analysis and broaden its application range.
Structure‐based design of peptidomimetic inhibitors of PSD‐95 with improved affinity for the PDZ3 domain
Authors: Naik Mandar T. , Naik Nandita , Hu Tony , Wang Szu‐Huan , Marshall John
Published: October 2023

Aberrant brain‐derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) signaling has been proposed to contribute to the pathophysiology of depression and other neurological disorders such as Angelman syndrome. We have previously shown that targeting the tropomyosin receptor kinase B/postsynaptic density protein‐95 (PSD‐95) nexus in the BDNF signaling pathway by peptidomimetic inhibitors is a promising approach for therapeutic intervention. Here, we used structure‐based knowledge to develop a new Syn3 peptidomimetic compound series that fuses peptides derived from the PSD‐95‐binding protein SynGAP to our prototype compound CN2097. The new compounds target the PSD‐95 PDZ3 domain and adjoining αC helix to achieve bivalent binding that results in up to 7‐fold stronger affinity compared to CN2097. These compounds were designed to improve CN2097 specificity for the PSD‐95 PDZ3 domain, and structure–activity relationship studies were performed to improve their resistance to proteolysis.
Interactions of optic radiation lesions with retinal and brain atrophy in early multiple sclerosis
Authors: Lin Ting‐Yi , Chien Claudia , Kuchling Joseph , Asseyer Susanna , Motamedi Seyedamirhosein , Bellmann‐Strobl Judith , Schmitz‐Hübsch Tanja , Ruprecht Klemens , Brandt Alexander U. , Zimmermann Hanna G. , Paul Friedemann
Published: October 2023

Objective

Retrograde trans‐synaptic neuroaxonal degeneration is considered a key pathological factor of subclinical retinal neuroaxonal damage in multiple sclerosis (MS). We aim to evaluate the longitudinal association of optic radiation (OR) lesion activity with retinal neuroaxonal damage and its role in correlations between retinal and brain atrophy in people with clinically isolated syndrome and early MS (pweMS).

Methods

Eighty‐five pweMS were retrospectively screened from a prospective cohort (Berlin CIS cohort). Participants underwent 3T magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for OR lesion volume and brain atrophy measurements and optical coherence tomography (OCT) for retinal layer thickness measurements. All pweMS were followed with serial OCT and MRI over a median follow‐up of 2.9 (interquartile range: 2.6–3.4) years. Eyes with a history of optic neuritis prior to study enrollment were excluded. Linear mixed models were used to analyze the association of retinal layer thinning with changes in OR lesion volume and brain atrophy.

Results

Macular ganglion cell‐inner plexiform layer (GCIPL) thinning was more pronounced in pweMS with OR lesion volume increase during follow‐up compared to those without (Difference: −0.82 μm [95% CI:‐1.49 to −0.15], p = 0.018). Furthermore, GCIPL thinning correlated with both OR lesion volume increase (β [95% CI] = −0.27 [−0.50 to −0.03], p = 0.028) and brain atrophy (β [95% CI] = 0.47 [0.25 to 0.70], p < 0.001). Correlations of GCIPL changes with brain atrophy did not differ between pweMS with or without OR lesion increase ( = 5.92e−7, p = 0.762).

Interpretation

Faster GCIPL thinning rate is associated with increased OR lesion load. Our results support the value of GCIPL as a sensitive biomarker reflecting both posterior visual pathway pathology and global brain neurodegeneration.
Bioinspired Large‐Area Atomically‐Thin Graphene Membranes
Authors: Zhang Dongxu , Jia Zhiqian , Zhang Shengping , Hou Dandan , Wang Jianjun , Liu Ye , Han Xiao , Van der Bruggen Bart , Wang Luda
Published: October 2023

Nanoporous graphene membranes are attractive for molecular separations, but it remains challenging to maintain sufficient mechanical strength during scalable fabrication and module development. Inspired by the composite structure of cell membranes and cell walls, a large‐area atomically thin nanoporous graphene membrane supported by a fiber‐reinforced structure with strong interlamellar adhesion is designed. Compared with other graphene‐based membranes of large scale, the fracture stress, fracture strength, and tensile stiffness of the composite membranes can be enhanced by a factor of 17, 67, and 94, respectively. This fiber‐reinforced structure also confers stability of the composite membrane to different curvature states and repeated bending processes after 10 000 times, which provides an opportunity for modularization. The breathable function of such membrane with an ultrahigh gas permeance (≈8.6–23 L m−2 d−1 Pa−1) and an ultralow water vapor transportation rate (WVTR) (≈23–129 g L m−2 d−1) is observed, superior to most commercial materials. This work provides a facile method to fabricate large‐area graphene membranes and paves the road to practical application in the membrane separation field for other 2D films.
Chiral Brønsted Acid Catalysed Kinetic Resolution of Secondary and Tertiary 3‐Amido Allylic Alcohols
Authors: Jin Jianwen , Carli Lorenzo , Zhao Yichao , Zhu Xuehua , Xia Bo , Chan Philip Wai Hong
Published: October 2023

A synthetic method to prepare enantioenriched secondary and tertiary 3‐amido allylic alcohols efficiently that relies on their stereoablative enantioselective kinetic resolution (KR) catalysed by a chiral Brønsted acid is described. Achieved at room temperature, the stereoablative asymmetric KR protocol was shown to exhibit excellent functional group tolerance and provided product yields up to 50%, and ee and s values up to 99% and >200. The synthetic utility of the divergent catalytic protocol was exemplified by the 1 mmol scale preparation of one tertiary example and its reduction or bromination to give the corresponding 1,3‐amino alcohol and 2‐bromo‐1,3‐amino alcohol derivatives. The suggested asymmetric KR pathways provide rare instances of accomplishing enantioselective discrimination through the dehydration or imine‐enamine tautomerisation/retro‐aza‐aldol reaction of the respective 2° and 3° alcohol substrates.
Using post‐season tissue nitrogen concentrations to predict adequacy of in‐season nitrogen management
Authors: Hoegenauer Kyle , Roberts Trent , Ortel Carrie , Hardke Jarrod , Richardson Mike , Daniels Mike
Published: October 2023

High‐yielding mechanized rice production requires large amounts of nitrogen (N) fertilizer, which can be particularly costly to producers when applied in excess. The development of a tissue test to detect overapplication of N to rice is needed. Nitrogen response trials arranged in a randomized complete block design were established to identify a critical concentration threshold for a tissue test to detect excess N availability. Rice stalk samples were collected from 0 to 20 cm above the soil within 5 days of harvest and analyzed for NO3−‐N concentration. Two models were fit to the data to represent rice grain yield as a function of N concentration: the linear plateau model and the quadratic plateau model. The data were well represented by both models; however, the linear plateau model more accurately described the data with a normalized root mean square error of 0.128 for linear plateau and 0.131 for quadratic plateau and a significant F‐test (p < 0.0001). The join point of the linear response region and the plateau region of the model serves as a critical value that separates the responsive (N deficient) and non‐responsive (N optimum or excessive) regions. The 95% confidence interval of the join point (2.1 mg NO3−‐N kg−1) was selected as a practical, agronomic critical concentration threshold to reduce false positive errors. The data presented here further supports the use of a post‐season tissue test in rice to detect overfertilization and establish a critical concentration threshold for this tissue test.
Identification and expression profiles of olfactory‐related genes based on transcriptome analysis in Plodia interpunctella (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae)
Authors: Li Hui , Hong Xiwen , Zeng Fangfang , Bai Chunqi
Published: October 2023

The sophisticated olfactory system of insects is plays a critical role in detecting chemical signals and guiding insect behaviors, such as selecting mates, finding hosts, evading predators, and discovering oviposition sites. Therefore, exploring and clarifying the molecular processes of this system is crucial for developing new insecticides or efficient pest control methods. Plodia interpunctella (Hübner) is a disruptive insect pest damaging the stored grains over the world. However, the olfactory processes of P. interpunctella remain unclear. Herein, we employed a transcriptome analysis to identify olfactory and differentially expressed genes to characterize their expression patterns in different developmental stages and antennal tissue. Subsequently, a total of 172 potential olfactory‐related genes included 42 odorant‐binding proteins, 12 chemosensory proteins, 51 odorant receptors, 13 gustatory receptors, three sensory neuron membrane proteins, and 51 ionotropic receptors. Furthermore, phylogenetic analysis and BLASTx best‐hit analyses showed that these olfactory genes were closely linked with those identified in other lepidopterans. Transcriptome analysis revealed 49 differentially expressed olfactory‐related genes, and a semiquantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction showed that 11 olfactory genes were particularly expressed in the legs and wings of female P. interpunctella. Meanwhile, PintOBP29 was notably expressed in female antennae and legs. Genes with high expression levels in the abdomen showed high expression in the legs, but low expression in the antennae. Our findings provide the candidate genetic factors for analysis of the olfactory processes in P. interpunctella.
microRNAs in Syrista parreyssi (Hymenoptera) and Lepisma saccharina (Zygentoma) possibly involved in the mitochondrial function
Authors: Aydemir Habeş Bilal , Korkmaz Ertan Mahir
Published: October 2023

Mitochondria are essential organelles for maintaining vital cellular functions, and microRNAs (miRNAs) regulate gene expression posttranscriptionally. miRNAs exhibit tissue and time‐specific patterns in mitochondria and specifically mitochondrial miRNAs (mitomiRs) can regulate the mRNA expression both originating from mitochondrial and nuclear transcription which affect mitochondrial metabolic activity and cell homeostasis. In this study, miRNAs of two insect species, Syrista parreyssi (Hymenoptera) and Lepisma saccharina (Zygentoma), were investigated for the first time. The known and possible novel miRNAs were predicted and characterized and their potential effects on mitochondrial transcription were investigated in these insect species using deep sequencing. The previously reported mitomiRs were also investigated and housekeeping miRNAs were characterized. miRNAs that are involved in mitochondrial processes such as apoptosis and signaling and that affect genes encoding the subunits of OXPHOS complexes have been identified in each species. Here, 81 and 161 novel mature miRNA candidates were bioinformatically predicted and 9 and 24 of those were aligned with reference mitogenomes of S. parreyssi and L. saccharina, respectively. As a result of RNAHybrid analysis, 51 and 69 potential targets of miRNAs were found in the mitogenome of S. parreyssi and L. saccharina, respectively. cox1 gene was the most targeted gene and cytB, rrnS, and rrnL genes were highly targeted in both of the species by novel miRNAs, hypothetically. We speculate that these novel miRNAs, originating from or targeting mitochondria, influence on rRNA genes or positively selected mitochondrial protein‐coding genes. These findings may provide a new perspective in evaluating miRNAs for maintaining mitochondrial function and transcription.
A two‐step electrochemical biosensor based on Tetrazyme for the detection of fibrin
Authors: Jiang Jiayi , Wang Bin , Luo Linghuan , Ying Na , Shi Gaofan , Zhang Mengmeng , Su Haoyuan , Zeng Dongdong
Published: October 2023

In this study, an electrochemical biosensor was constructed for the detection of fibrin, specifically by a simple two‐step approach, with a novel artificial enzyme (Tetrazyme) based on the DNA tetrahedral framework as signal probe. The multichannel screen‐printed electrode with the activated surface cannot only remove some biological impurities, but also serve as a carrier to immobilize a large number of antigen proteins. The DNA tetrahedral nanostructure was employed to ensure the high sensitivity of the probe for biological analysis. The hemin was chimeric into the G‐quadruplex to constitute the complex with peroxidase catalytic activity (hemin/G4‐DNAzyme), subsequently, Tetrazyme was formed through combining of this complex and DNA tetrahedral nucleic acid framework. The artificial enzyme signal probe formed by the covalent combination of the homing peptide (Cys‐Arg‐Glu‐Lys‐Ala, CREKA), which is the aptamer of fibrin and the new artificial enzyme is fixed on the surface of the multichannel carbon electrode by CREKA‐specific recognition, so as to realize the sensitive detection of fibrin. The feasibility of sensing platform was validated by cyclic voltammetry (CV) and amperometric i–t curve (IT) methods. Effects of Tetrazyme concentration, CREKA concentrations and hybridization time on the sensor were explored. Under the best optimal conditions of 0.6 μmol/L Tetrazyme, 80 μmol/L CREKA, and 2.5 h reaction time, the immunosensor had two linear detection ranges, 10–40 nmol/L, with linear regression equation Y = 0.01487X − 0.011 (R2 = 0.992), and 50–100 nmol/L, with linear regression equation Y = 0.00137X + 0.6405 (R2 = 0.998), the detection limit was 9.4 nmol/L, S/N ≥ 3. The biosensor could provide a new method with great potential for the detection of fibrin with good selectivity, stability, and reproducibility.
Scaling strategy for cell and gene therapy bioreactors based on turbulent parameters
Authors: Iurashev Dmytro , Jones Peter Anthony , Andreev Nadejda , Wang Yana , Iwata‐Kajihara Tomoko , Kraus Barbara , Hernandez Bort Juan A.
Published: October 2023

So far, power input has been used as the main parameter for bioreactor scale‐up/‐down in upstream process development and manufacturing. The rationale is that maintaining a consistent power input per unit volume should result in comparable mixing times at different scales. However, shear generated from turbulent flow may compromise the integrity of non‐robust cells such as those used during the production of cell and gene therapies, which may lead to low product quality and yield. Of particular interest is the Kolmogorov length parameter that characterizes the smallest turbulent eddies in a mixture. To understand its impact on scale‐up/‐down decisions, the distribution of Kolmogorov length along the trajectory flow of individual particles in bioreactors was estimated in silico with the help of computational fluid dynamics simulations. Specifically, in this study the scalability of iPSC‐derived lymphocyte production and the impact of shear stress across various differentiation stages were investigated. The study used bioreactors of volumes from 0.1 to 10 L, which correspond to the scales most used for parameter optimization. Our findings, which align with in vitro runs, help determine optimal agitation speed and shear stress adjustments for process transfer between scales and bioreactor types, using vertically‐oriented wheel and pitched‐blade impellers. In addition, empirical models specific to the bioreactors used in this study were developed. The provided computational analysis in combination with experimental data supports selection of appropriate bioreactors and operating conditions for various cell and gene therapy process steps.
Two New Alkaloids from Roots of Zea mays and Their Cytotoxic Activity against Hep3B and SW480 Cells
Authors: Zhang Yunqiang , Liu Jianyu , Zhang Yiling , Qiu Xue , Wang Andong , Xu Yongnan
Published: October 2023

Two undescribed alkaloids, along with seven known compounds, were isolated from the roots of Zea mays (RM). Their chemical structures were elucidated based on extensive analyses of HR‐ESI‐MS, 1D and 2D NMR, and CD spectra. Two new alkaloids exhibited moderate inhibition of Hep3B (IC50 values of 11.7±2.4 and 14.2±3.6 μM) and SW480 cells (IC50 values of 33.4±8.2 and 47.3±5.8 μM) compared to that of the positive control compound, Oxaliplatin, IC50 value of 8.4±1.7 and 45.8±5.6 μM, respectively.
GFN‐xTB‐Based Computations Provide Comprehensive Insights into Emulsion Radiation‐Induced Graft Polymerization**
Authors: Matsubara Kiho , Takahashi Kei , Matsuda Takeshi , Ueki Yuji , Seko Noriaki , Kakuchi Ryohei
Published: October 2023

In this article, a deep insight into emulsion radiation‐induced graft polymerization (RIGP) was obtained by computing explicit solvation free energies, conformational entropy, monomer radius and dipole moments with the state‐of‐the‐art Conformer‐Rotamer Ensemble Sampling Tool (CREST) package primarily at semiempirical GFN‐xTB level. By leveraging the robustness of the CREST package, above parameters provided dynamic nature of methacrylate monomers with the consideration of realistic emulsion conditions. With the chemical and physical importance of the above results, CREST‐determined explanatory variables sufficiently led to the building of the prediction models for the RIGP of methacrylate monomers. The machine learning model building resulted in effective reactivity predictions and unveiled important factors for the radiation‐induced graft polymerization in a chemically interpretable fashion.
Fingerprint patterns in relation to an altered neurodevelopment in patients with autism spectrum disorder
Authors: Kyselicová Klaudia , Dukonyová Dóra , Belica Ivan , Ballová Dominika Sónak , Jankovičová Viktória , Ostatníková Daniela
Published: October 2023

Dermatoglyphic patterns are permanently established and matured before the 24th week of gestation. Their frequencies and localization might be a good indicator of developmental instability in individuals with an altered neurodevelopment and show potential as biomarkers of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). In this study, fingerprint pattern counts and fluctuating asymmetry in the distribution of patterns are compared between 67 boys diagnosed with ASD (aged 5.11 ± 2.51 years) and 83 control boys (aged 8.58 ± 3.14 years). Boys with ASD had a higher rate of discordance in their fingerprint patterns (p = .0026), showing more often bilateral differences in the occurrence of certain patterns. A chi‐square test revealed that the difference in pattern frequencies between boys with ASD and the control group is the most significant in frequencies of whorls, tented arches, and ulnar loops. Boys with ASD have significantly fewer ulnar loops, significantly more whorls, and tented arches in the right hand. The achieved results are in favor of the suggestion that prenatal influences, which play a role in the development of bilateral differences in fingerprint patterns up to the 24th week of gestation, may be a potential cause of an altered neurodevelopment in ASD individuals.
Catalytic Behavior of Half‐Metallocene Non‐Cp‐Type Group 4 Metal Complexes (M=Zr, Hf) with a Cyclooctatetraenyl Dianion during Olefin Polymerization
Authors: Toda Tomoyuki , Yamaguchi Takamasa , Takenaka Katsuhiko
Published: October 2023

Significant advancements have been made in metallocene catalysis due to the development of cyclopentadienyl (Cp) ligands by numerous researchers. Furthermore, various ligand combinations have been realized in the last 20 years for the development of post‐metallocene catalysts. Although ligands containing a Cp have been widely reported, only a few reports exist ligands based on other carbon‐only π‐electron moieties. Herein, we focused on the zirconium and hafnium with the 10π‐electron cyclooctatetraenyl (Cot) dianion as an ancillary ligand and investigated the olefin‐polymerization ability of these complexes. Thus, we performed ethylene and ethylene‐1‐octene (co)polymerization using dMAO, MMAO, and Ph3C[B(C6F5)4]/iBu3Al as cocatalysts and confirmed that completion of the polymerization reaction; the catalytic system except dMAO exhibited activities for olefin polymerization to give linear polyethylene or ethylene‐1‐octene copolymer. Furthermore, the zirconium complexes bearing trimethylsilyl‐substituted Cot ligand exhibited enhanced activities for ethylene polymerization compared with an unsubstituted CotZr catalyst.
Reassignment of the Structure of Janthinolide A
Authors: Bates Roderick W. , Elyashberg Mikhail , Kutateladze Andrei G. , Williams Craig M.
Published: October 2023

Using computational methods and chemical intuition, the proposed structure of janthinolide A is shown to be incorrect. It is further shown that the material described as janthinolide A is highly likely to be janthinolide C.
Effect of malting on physicochemical, antioxidant, and microstructural properties of finger millet (Eleusine coracana) flours
Authors: Murungweni Kundai Thelma , Ramashia Shonisani Eugenia , Mashau Mpho Edward
Published: October 2023

Finger millet (Eleusine coracana L. Gaertn.) is a gluten‐free crop with a high amount of fiber, calcium and iron, outstanding malting qualities and a low glycemic index. The study aimed to determine the physicochemical, functional, antioxidant and microstructural properties of malted finger millet (light and dark brown) flours. The two varieties of finger millet grains were germinated for 0, 24, 48 and 72 h and kilned for 8 h. The lightness (L*) values of malted finger millet flours significantly increased, with light brown having the highest L* value of 76.62. The hue angle and total color differences (ΔE) of the malted finger millet flours increased significantly (p ≤ .05.), and values ranged from 63.43° to 71.20° (light brown) and 2.12° to 4.32° (dark brown), respectively. The moisture, ash, fiber, protein, total phenolic, total flavonoids contents and DPPH activity of both malted finger millet flours significantly increased. On the contrary, the fat, carbohydrate, energy contents and FRAP activity significantly decreased with each malting period of both finger millet flours. Both malted finger millet flours' solubility index, water and oil absorption capacity increased significantly while the packed and loose bulk density decreased. Malting had no significant effect on the viscosity of the cold paste; however, a significant decrease in the viscosity of the cooked paste in both finger millet flours was observed, with values ranging from 285 to 424.00 cP (light brown) and 271.33 to 418.00 cP (dark brown), respectively. Malting resulted in changes in the thermal properties of finger millet flours with an increase in the onset, peak and conclusion temperatures. Fourier‐Transform Infrared Spectra showed that malting slightly changed the peaks of both finger millet flours. Scanning electron microscopy showed that malting altered the microstructural characteristics of finger millet flours. The results showed that malted finger millet flours are promising raw materials for gluten‐free bakery products.
Improving the microbial quality and sensory properties of pasteurized sweet cream butter during refrigerated storage using chia seed ethanolic extract
Authors: Sadri‐Saeen Zahra , Khani Mohammadreza , Fadaei Vajiheh
Published: October 2023

Butter is a perishable food, and its microbial deterioration occurs in refrigeration conditions, leading to a reduction in shelf life and a loss of sensory properties. This study aimed to investigate the effect of chia seed extract (CSE) on the microbial and sensory properties of pasteurized sweet cream butter at 2°C. Ethanolic extract of chia seeds was prepared and added to the butter samples in concentrations of 0.05%, 0.1%, 0.25%, and 0.5% (v/w), and its effects on microbiological and sensory quality were evaluated at 15‐day intervals during 60‐day refrigerated storage. The results indicated that the addition of 0.25% and 0.5% CSE to butter treatments decreased total viable counts by 0.25–0.6 log CFU/g, total psychrotrophic counts by 1–1.5 log CFU/g, and coliform counts by 3–4 log CFU/g compared to the control sample on days 45 and 60 of storage. Moreover, concentrations of 0.1%–0.5% CSE reduced mold and yeast counts by 1.5–2.6 log CFU/g on days 30–60 of storage compared to the control sample. Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus were not detected in any samples during storage. CSE had a significant effect on the sensory properties (except for aroma) of the butter samples during the 60‐day storage. The best color, flavor, and overall acceptance scores were assigned to the treatments containing 0.1%–0.5% CSE compared to the control sample. It could be concluded that adding 0.1% and 0.25% CSE to refrigerated and pasteurized butter can retard microbial spoilage and improve its sensory properties at the same time.
Sulforaphane ameliorate Arsenic induced cardiotoxicity in rats: Role of PI3k/Akt mediated Nrf2 signaling pathway
Authors: Thangapandiyan Shanmugam , Hema Tamilselvan , Miltonprabu Selvaraj , Paulpandi Manickam , Dutta Uma
Published: October 2023

Arsenic (As) toxicity can generate reactive free radicals, which play an important role in the evolution of cardiomyopathy. The aim of this research is to see if sulforaphane (SFN) protects against As‐induced heart damage, oxidative stress, and mitochondrial complex dysfunction via the PI3K/Akt/Nrf2 signaling pathway. The rats were placed into four groups, each with eight rats. Group 1: Normal rats (control group); Group 2: Treatment group (5 mg/kg body weight); Group 3: SFN+As‐treatment group (80 mg/kg body weight + 5 mg/kg body weight); Group 4: SFN group only (80 mg/kg body weight). The swot will last 4 weeks. At the end of the intermission (28 days), all of the rats starved overnight and killed with cervical decapitation. As administration considerably (p < 0.05) inflated the extent of free radicals (O2–, OH–), lipoid peroxidation (malondialdehyde, 4‐hydroxynonenal), lipoid profile (low‐density lipoprotein‐cholesterol, very low‐density lipoprotein‐cholesterol (VLDL‐C), total cholesterol, triglyceride, and phospholipids), cardiac Troponin (cTnT&I), and Mitochondrial complex III. A noteworthy (p < 0.05) diminish the level of HDL‐C, Mitochondrial complex I and II, enzymatic (superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione peroxidase), and nonenzymatic antioxidant (glutathione and total sulfhydryl groups) and PI3k, Akt, and Nrf2 sequence in As treated rats. The western blot, real‐time polymerase chain reaction, flowcytometric, and histology studies all corroborated the biochemical findings which revealed significant heart damage in rats. Pretreatment with SFN significantly (p < 0.05) reduced the invitro free radicals, lipid oxidative indicators, mitochondrial complex, lipid profiles, and increased phase II antioxidants in the heart. This result shows that dietary supplementation of SFN protects against As‐induced cardiotoxicity via PI3k/Akt/Nrf2 pathway in rats.
Social networking website increases efficacy and engagement in a distance learning course about oral lesions
Authors: Prohny João Paulo , Roxo‐Gonçalves Michelle , Wagner Vivian P. , Corrêa Ana Paula B. , Martins Marco Antonio T. , Martins Manoela D. , Carvalho Fabiana , Gonçalves Marcelo R. , Carrard Vinicius C.
Published: October 2023

Purpose

Distance learning appears to be an attractive approach to continuing education courses, but one barrier is maintaining learner engagement throughout the course. The primary aim of this research was to evaluate the operational efficacy of a private Facebook™ group (FG) in serving as a support mechanism for distance learning courses, and its impact on three fundamental dimensions: the attrition rates of participants who did not complete the course (commonly referred to as dropout rates), the rates of course completion and approval, and the overall performance of the participants.

Methods

The participants of this quasi‐experimental study comprised 159 dental students and 565 dentists enrolled in an e‐learning course on oral mucosal lesion diagnosis. Prior to the initiation of the course, all participants were provided with the option to join a private FG. Within this group, moderators shared motivational messages and provided reminders concerning deadlines. Moreover, participants had the opportunity to engage in interactive discussions pertaining to topics related to the course. The course itself followed a self‐guided format, employing the flipped‐classroom methodology, spanning a total of 50 instructional hours. In order to assess the effectiveness of the course, participants were presented with photographs illustrating 30 oral lesions and were asked to propose diagnostic hypotheses both before and after the educational intervention (pre‐tests and post‐tests).

Results

Dentists who participated in the FG exhibited a significantly lower rate of discontinuation. As for dental students, their involvement in the group was positively associated with better performance, as determined by the percentage of accurate diagnostic hypotheses (a minimum of 70% correct responses was required for their approval in the course).

Conclusions

Facebook™ demonstrates promise as a supplementary pedagogical tool in distance education courses. The interactive nature of the platform has the potential to alleviate the inherent challenges of remote learning.
Marine actinomyceteStreptomyces variabilisS26 as a biocontrol agent for vibriosis in shrimp larval rearing systems
Authors: Solomon Solly , Babu Divya T. , Gopalakrishnan Sumitha , Augustine Deepthi , Kachiprath Bhavya , Kesavan Dhanya , Sarasan Manomi , Philip Rosamma
Published: October 2023

Indiscriminate use of antibiotics has led to the emergence of antibiotic‐resistant microbes and the loss of natural flora in aquaculture systems necessitating the ban of many of these chemotherapeutants in aquaculture. Actinobacteria play a profound role in the biogeochemical cycling in the marine environment and represent the principal source of secondary metabolites with antimicrobial property. In the present study, 98 marine‐derived actinomycete isolates were screened for antimicrobial activity against the common aquatic pathogens. A potent actinomycete isolate S26, identified asStreptomyces variabilisbased on 16 S ribosomal RNA (rRNA) gene sequencing was then checked for the production of antibiotic in five different fermentation media and the one which showed maximum production was chosen for further study. Optimization of the fermentation medium for secondary metabolite production was carried out by response surface methodology (RSM) using DESIGN EXPERT. The analysis of variance (ANOVA) of the quadratic regression model demonstrated that the model was highly significant for the response concerned that is, antimicrobial activity as evident from the Fisher'sF‐ test with a very low probability value [(Pmodel>F) = 0.0001]. Of the 10 different solutions suggested by the software, the most suitable composition was found to be starch, 1.38%; soy powder, 0.88%; ammonium sulfate, 0.16% and salinity, 27.76‰.S. variabilisS26 cultured in the optimized production medium was applied in thePenaeus monodonlarval rearing system and the totalVibriocount and survival rate were estimated.S. variabilisS26 treatment showed a significant reduction in vibrios and conferred better protection toP. monodonin culture system compared with control.
Spatiotemporal variability of precipitation concentration in Pakistan
Authors: Zaman Muhammad , Shahid Muhammad Adnan , Ahmad Ijaz , Shen Yan‐Jun , Usman Muhammad , Khan Muhammad Imran , Saifullah Muhammad
Published: October 2023

Precipitation is a meteorological variable that plays a vital role in determining water resources and managing water risks. The intensity and frequency of precipitation extremes have increased in recent years; however, the changes in precipitation regimes across Pakistan remain unclear. This study analysed spatial and temporal changes in the precipitation concentration index (PCI) and concentration index (CI) from 100 meteorological stations across Pakistan from 1981 to 2017. Using innovative trend analysis (ITA) and Pettitt's test, we detected trends and change points in the annual and wet season PCI and CI. Additionally, we examined the relationship between PCI/CI values and latitude and altitude. The results revealed that the CI and PCI ranged between 0.48–0.78 and 10–55, respectively, with higher values being more prevalent in the dry and hot zones of the country. The study established a linear relationship between PCI/CI values, latitude and altitude, with higher values at lower altitudes and a decrease in values from south to north. Most stations presented a significant positive ITA trend for PCI and CI from 1981 to 2017, with a change between 1985 and 1995, indicating an overall increase in heavy precipitation events in the area. These findings are crucial for disaster preparedness, water resource planning, the mitigation of drought and flood risks, and conservation efforts.
Study of the stereospecificity in the biotransformation of the four isomers of loxoprofen sodium in rats by chiral HPLC
Authors: Cao Shirong , Shi Xuejiao , Han Shengshi , Fu Yanhua , Liu Xingjie , Zhao Pengfei , Wang Zhaokun
Published: October 2023

Loxoprofen sodium is a chiral drug with two chiral centers. In our previous work, we found that the elimination of its four isomers showed stereospecificity in rats, while how the stereospecific behavior occurred in vivo was unclear. To clarify this issue, each single isomer of loxoprofen sodium was prepared by a chiral semi‐preparative high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and then administered to rats. By analysis of each isomer in rat plasma utilizing an analytical chiral HPLC, it was discovered that the chiral inversion occurred only to its (2R)‐isomers, one from (1′S,2R)‐ to (1′S,2S)‐isomer and the other from (1′R,2R)‐ to (1′R,2S)‐isomer. The reduction of α‐substituted cyclopentanone occurred only to its (1′R)‐isomers, with (1′R,2R)‐isomer reduced to (2′S,1′R,2R)‐trans‐alcohol and (1′R,2S)‐ to (2′S,1′R,2S)‐trans‐alcohol. Interestingly, both the inversion and the reduction reaction occurred to its (1′R,2R)‐isomer due to the special stereo‐structure with both (2R)‐ and (1′R)‐configuration, and conversely, neither of them occurred to its (1′S,2S)‐isomer, which caused the significantly different elimination rate in vivo. These new findings were meaningful for evaluation of the safety and efficacy of chiral drugs.
Developing SWAT‐S to strengthen the soil erosion forecasting performance of the SWAT model
Authors: Long Shaobo , Gao Jianen , Shao Hui , Wang Lu , Zhang XingChen , Gao Zhe
Published: October 2023

Soil erosion is an important cause of global land degradation, and accurate monitoring of it is essential. The Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT), a distributed hydrological model, is an advanced technique for predicting soil erosion at watershed scale. However, as the erosion framework was established in gently sloping land, SWAT is limited in predicting soil erosion in some highland and mountainous regions. Therefore, this study suggested a method to integrate the sediment transport theoretical formula that can reflect the morphology of gully regions into SWAT to obtain SWAT‐S to enhance the calculation performance of sediment load, and the SWAT‐S was evaluated according to the coefficient of determination (R2), Nash‐Sutcliffe coefficient (NSE), Percent‐Bias (P‐BIAS) and root mean square errors (RMSE)‐observations SD ratio (RSR) in the Yanhe basin on the Chinese Loess Plateau. The results showed that SWAT‐S is more successful in reproducing the monthly sediment load, with R2, NSE, |P‐BIAS| and RSR were changed by 5.08%, 17.65%, −2.92% and −10.00% in the calibration, as well as by 1.18%, 10.39%, 45.45% and −18.75% in the validation of the SWAT‐S compared to SWAT. Meanwhile, SWAT‐S estimates 2.66 × 106 t more sediment than SWAT during the June–September flood season and better matches observed data. In total, the revised SWAT can improve the performance of sediment estimation, which is beneficial for the wider application of the model in more regions of the world.
Unveiling the Role of Compositional Drifts on the Tack of Pressure‐Sensitive‐Adhesives
Authors: Arrowood Anthony , Li Morris , Nassr Mostafa , Lynd Nathaniel A. , Sanoja Gabriel E.
Published: October 2023

Pressure‐sensitive‐adhesives (PSAs) are pervasive in electronic, automobile, packaging, and biomedical applications due to their ability to stick to numerous surfaces without undergoing chemical reactions. These materials are typically synthesized by the free radical copolymerization of alkyl acrylates and acrylic acid, leading to an ensemble of polymer chains with varying composition and molecular weight. Here, reversible addition−fragmentation chain‐transfer (RAFT) copolymerizations in a semi‐batch reactor are used to tailor the molecular architecture and bulk mechanical properties of acrylic copolymers. In the absence of cross‐links, the localization of acrylic acid toward the chain ends leads to microphase separation, creep resistance, and enhanced tack. However, in the presence of Al(acac)3 crosslinker, the creep resistance remains unchanged and mostly the large‐strain mechanical properties are affected. This behavior is attributed to microphase separation, but also to a change in the energy required to break physical associations, and untangle and elongate associative polymers to large deformations.
Melt‐Versus Solution‐Extrusion Additive Manufacturing of Poly(methyl methacrylate) Medical Implant Prototypes
Authors: Puppi Dario , Braccini Simona , Corti Andrea , Bello Francesca , Parrini Gianluca
Published: October 2023

The development of tailored additive manufacturing (AM) approaches is resulting in novel strategies for engineering the macro/microstructural details of potential medical devices made of biocompatible polymers. The aim of this work is the employment of a multifunctional AM machine for fabricating poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) constructs with a predefined shape and porous architecture, by either melt‐ or solution‐extrusion AM. In particular, PMMA porous scaffolds are manufactured by employing fused filament fabrication (FFF) or computer‐aided wet‐spinning (CAWS). The comparative characterization of the two developed PMMA implant prototypes demonstrates significant differences in terms of porous structure, polymer surface topography, material composition, glass transition temperature, and mechanical properties. As a consequence, FFF‐printed PMMA samples support a faster in vitro proliferation of a murine fibroblast cell line in comparison to PMMA scaffolds by CAWS. The results achieved encourage further research on the developed processing protocols, aimed at the development of tailored PMMA implants for personalized surgery applications.
Cleaving the C–O bond in alcohols
Authors: Jana Samikshan , Teskey Christopher J.
Published: October 2023

Today, alcohols as building blocks for synthesis go beyond ether and ester formation. Photochemistry and electrochemistry activate the carbon‐oxygen bond to form carbon‐carbon bonds and carbon‐boron bonds for cross‐coupling reactions.
Predicting rock–paper–scissors choices based on single‐trial EEG signals
Authors: He Zetong , Cui Lidan , Zhang Shunmin , He Guibing
Published: October 2023

Decision prediction based on neurophysiological signals is of great application value in many real‐life situations, especially in human–AI collaboration or counteraction. Single‐trial analysis of electroencephalogram (EEG) signals is a very valuable step in the development of an online decision‐prediction system. However, previous EEG‐based decision‐prediction methods focused mainly on averaged EEG signals of all decision‐making trials to predict an individual's general decision tendency (e.g., risk seeking or aversion) over a period rather than on a specific decision response in a single trial. In the present study, we used a rock–paper–scissors game, which is a common multichoice decision‐making task, to explore how to predict participants' single‐trial choice with EEG signals. Forty participants, comprising 20 females and 20 males, played the game with a computer player for 330 trials. Considering that the decision‐making process of this game involves multiple brain regions and neural networks, we proposed a new algorithm named common spatial pattern‐attractor metagene (CSP‐AM) to extract CSP features from different frequency bands of EEG signals that occurred during decision making. The results showed that a multilayer perceptron classifier achieved an accuracy significantly exceeding the chance level among 88.57% (31 of 35) of participants, verifying the classification ability of CSP features in multichoice decision‐making prediction. We believe that the CSP‐AM algorithm could be used in the development of proactive AI systems.
Minimal important change in the Berg Balance Scale in older women with vertebral compression fractures: A retrospective multicenter study
Authors: Kobayashi Sota , Miyata Kazuhiro , Tamura Shuntaro , Takeda Ren , Iwamoto Hiroki
Published: October 2023

Background

Vertebral compression fractures, which are commonly associated with older age and osteoporotic fractures, have an increased risk of re‐fracture. Therefore, improving balance is important to prevent falls. The minimal important change (MIC) has been recommended for interpreting clinically meaningful changes in rating scales. The MIC of the Berg Balance Scale (BBS) for use in older women with vertebral compression fractures has not been established.

Objective

To identify the MIC of the BBS that can be used in older women with vertebral compression fractures using predictive modeling methods and the receiver‐operating characteristic (ROC)–based method.

Design

A retrospective longitudinal multicenter study.

Patients

Sixty older women (mean age ± standard deviation: 84.1 ± 7.0 years) with vertebral compression fractures who were unable to ambulate independently on a level surface.

Methods

A change of one point in the Functional Ambulation Category (FAC) was used as an anchor to calculate the MIC of the BBS based on the change between admission and discharge. We calculated the MIC for the women whose FAC score improved by ≥1 point. We used three anchor‐based methods to examine the MIC: the ROC‐based method (MICROC), the predictive modeling method (MICpred), and the MICpred‐based method adjusted by the rate of improvement and reliability of transition (MICadj).

Results

Thirty‐nine women comprised the “important change” group based on their FAC score improvement. In this group, the MICROC (95% confidence interval [CI]) value of the BBS was 10.0 points (5.5–15.5), with an area under the curve of 0.71. The MICpred (95% CI) value was 9.7 (8.1–11.0), and the MICadj (95% CI) was 7.0 (5.5–8.5) points.

Conclusion

For women with vertebral compression fractures who are unable to ambulate independently, a 7.0‐point improvement in the BBS score may be a useful indicator for reducing the amount of assistance required for walking.
Nucleocapsid proteins from human coronaviruses possess phase separation capabilities and promote FUS pathological aggregation
Authors: Dong Hui , Zhang Hong , Jalin Julie , He Ziqi , Wang Runhan , Huang Leqi , Liu Zibo , Zhang Shenqing , Dai Bin , Li Dan
Published: October 2023

The nucleocapsid (N) protein is an essential structural component necessary for genomic packaging and replication in various human coronaviruses (HCoVs), such as SARS‐CoV‐2 and MERS‐CoV. Recent studies have revealed that the SARS‐CoV‐2 N protein exhibits a high capacity for liquid–liquid phase separation (LLPS), which plays multiple roles in viral infection and replication. In this study, we systematically investigate the LLPS capabilities of seven homologous N proteins from different HCoVs using a high‐throughput protein phase separation assay. We found that LLPS is a shared intrinsic property among these N proteins. However, the phase separation profiles of the various N protein homologs differ, and they undergo phase separation under distinct in vitro conditions. Moreover, we demonstrate that N protein homologs can co‐phase separate with FUS, a SG‐containing protein, and accelerate its liquid‐to‐solid phase transition and amyloid aggregation, which is closely related to amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Further study shows that N protein homologs can directly bind to the low complexity domain of FUS. Together, our work demonstrates that N proteins of different HCoVs possess phase separation capabilities, which may contribute to promoting pathological aggregation of host proteins and disrupting SG homeostasis during the infection and replication of various HCoVs.