bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dominance of Shortwave Radiative Heating in the Sea‐Land Breeze Amplitude and its Impacts on Atmospheric Visibility in Tokyo, Japan
Authors: Shen Lixing , Zhao Chuanfeng
Published: March 2020

This study uses 21‐year observations to analyze the characteristics of sea‐land breeze (SLB) circulation and its potential influencing factors in the metropolis of Tokyo. Unlike in other megacities, the magnitude of the SLB in Tokyo does not show a decreasing trend over the years. It is found that the diurnal variation magnitude of the SLB fits an approximately sinusoidal function. The diurnal variation amplitude mainly depends on shortwave radiation that reaches the ground. Stronger radiation is often accompanied by SLB circulation with greater energy, which helps transport more air pollution in the urban area of Tokyo. Correspondingly, atmospheric visibility shows good correlation with in situ shortwave radiation. Generally, strong radiation heats the ground surface, which causes larger land‐sea temperature differences and thus greater SLB circulation amplitudes, which is favorable for pollution dispersion and better atmospheric visibility. The presence of less aerosols and the associated better atmospheric visibility weaken the umbrella effect on solar radiation, which allows more solar radiation to reach the ground. This positive feedback could further strengthen the connection between solar radiation, sea‐land breezes, and atmospheric visibility. Increasing solar radiation and atmospheric visibility even produces stronger SLB magnitudes at night. Moreover, it is noteworthy that urban heat island circulation plays a similar role to that of SLB circulation, which also makes the variation of in situ radiation and visibility synchronous.
Switchable Multi-Color Solution-Processed QD-laser
Authors: Matloub Samiye , Amini Pegah , Rostami Ali
Published: March 2020

In this paper, for the first time, the switchable two-color quantum dot laser has been realized considering solution process technology, which has both simultaneous and lonely lasing capability exploiting selective energy contacts. Furthermore, both channels can be modulated independently, which is a significant feature in high-speed data transmission. To this end, utilizing superimposed quantum dots with various radii in the active layer provides the different emission wavelengths. In order to achieve the different sizes of QDs, solution process technology has been used as a cost-effectiveness and fabrication ease method. Moreover, at the introduced structure to accomplish the idea, the quantum wells are used as separate selective energy contacts to control the lasing channels at the desired wavelength. It makes the prominent device have simultaneous lasing at different emission wavelengths or be able to lase just at one wavelength. The performance of the proposed device has been modeled based on developed rate equation by assuming inhomogeneous broadening of energy levels as a consequence of the size distribution of quantum dots and considering tunnel injection of carriers into the quantum dots via selective energy contacts. Based on simulation results, the simultaneous lasing in both or at one of two wavelengths 1.31  μm and 1.55  μm has been realized by the superimposition of two different sizes of InGaAs quantum dots in a single cavity and accomplishment of selective energy contacts. Besides, controlling the quantum dot coverage leads to managing the output power and modulation response at the desired wavelengths. By offering this idea, one more step is actually taken to approach the switchable QD-laser by the simple solution process method.
The development of a novel ferric phytate compound for iron fortification of bouillons (part I)
Authors: Gupta Swarnim , Habeych Edwin , Scheers Nathalie , Merinat Sylvie , Rey Brigitte , Galaffu Nicola , Sandberg Ann-Sofie
Published: March 2020

In a series of two studies, we report the development (this study) and evaluation (part II) of a novel ferric phytate compound designed as a condiment iron fortificant. Condiments are used as iron fortification vehicles to reduce the prevalence  of iron deficiency. The challenge for iron fortificants in e.g. a bouillon matrix is to avoid undesired sensory effects and to ensure a reasonable cost. We added phytic acid to chelate iron, and hydrolysed protein to counteract the inhibiting effect of phytic acid on iron bioaccessibility. We characterised four novel ferric phytate compounds, destabilised by hydrolysed plant protein or amino acids. Colour stability of fortified bouillons with ferric phytate compounds was superior to bouillons fortified with ferrous sulfate. The iron-phytate-hydrolysed corn protein compound (Fe-PA-HCP) resulted in highest cellular ferritin induction in Caco-2 cells, in both vegetable (36.1 ± 13.40 ng/mg protein) and chicken (73.9 ± 19.93 ng/mg protein) bouillon matrices as observed in the human Caco-2/HepG2 cell model. Iron uptake (as estimated by ferritin production) from the Fe-PA-HCP compound was about 55% (chicken bouillon) and 66% (vegetable bouillon) of the iron uptake from ferrous sulfate. Based on this study, the Fe-PA-HCP compound was chosen for further evaluation (part II).
Teriparatide relieves ovariectomy-induced hyperalgesia in rats, suggesting the involvement of functional regulation in primary sensory neurons by PTH-mediated signaling
Authors: Tanaka Tomoya , Takao-Kawabata Ryoko , Takakura Aya , Shimazu Yukari , Nakatsugawa Momoko , Ito Akitoshi , Lee Ji-Won , Kawasaki Koh , Iimura Tadahiro
Published: March 2020

Clinical studies have reported that teriparatide (TPTD), a human parathyroid hormone analog, reduces back pain in osteoporotic patients. However, the mechanistic insights of this pharmacological action remain elusive. This study investigated the antinociceptive effect of TPTD mainly on primary sensory neurons in ovariectomized (OVX) rats. The plantar test showed thermal hyperalgesia in the OVX rats, which was significantly, but not fully, recovered immediately after the initial TPTD administration. The von Frey test also demonstrated reduced withdrawal threshold in the OVX rats. This was partially recovered by TPTD. Consistently, the number and size of spinal microglial cells were significantly increased in the OVX rats, while TPTD treatment significantly reduced the number but not size of these cells. RNA sequencing-based bioinformatics of the dorsal root ganglia (DRG) demonstrated that changes in neuro-protective and inflammatory genes were involved in the pharmacological effect of TPTD. Most neurons in the DRG expressed substantial levels of parathyroid hormone 1 receptor. TPTD treatment of the cultured DRG-derived neuronal cells reduced the cAMP level and augmented the intracellular calcium level as the concentration increased. These findings suggest that TPTD targets neuronal cells as well as bone cells to exert its pharmacological action.
Effect of Bt toxin Cry1Ab on two freshwater caddisfly shredders – an attempt to establish dose-effect relationships through food-spiking
Authors: Pott Antonia , Bundschuh Mirco , Bundschuh Rebecca , Otto Mathias , Schulz Ralf
Published: March 2020

Genetically modified organisms (GMOs), which produce Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) toxins, are widely used in agriculture in some parts of the world. Despite this, ecotoxicological methods, tailored to GMOs, are lacking to assess effects on aquatic environments. With the objective to investigate a food-related exposure pathway for aquatic shredders, we used a new food-spiking method while caddisfly larvae (Chaetopteryx spec., Sericostoma spec.) served as test species. Pure Cry1Ab toxins were spiked on black alder leaf discs and subsequently used in a feeding experiment. The toxin did not influence larval mortality compared to the control. The results, however, showed significant effects on larval lipid content (Chaetopteryx spec.) and development (Sericostoma spec.) at concentrations of 17.2 and 132.4 ng Cry1Ab/mg leaf, respectively. These changes are indicative for impacts on the fitness of the specimen and thus relevant in a risk assessment context. Ultimately, the food-spiking method allowed applying different Bt toxin concentrations leading to the establishment of dose-response relationships for various response variables. The use of long test durations and sublethal endpoints (consumption, lipid content, growth, larval instars) is, moreover, advisable when testing GMO effects.
Non-contact diagnosis of obstructive sleep apnea using impulse-radio ultra-wideband radar
Authors: Kang Sun , Kim Dong-Kyu , Lee Yonggu , Lim Young-Hyo , Park Hyun-Kyung , Cho Sung Ho , Cho Seok Hyun
Published: March 2020

While full-night polysomnography is the gold standard for the diagnosis of obstructive sleep apnea, its limitations include a high cost and first-night effects. This study developed an algorithm for the detection of respiratory events based on impulse-radio ultra-wideband radar and verified its feasibility for the diagnosis of obstructive sleep apnea. A total of 94 subjects were enrolled in this study (23 controls and 24, 14, and 33 with mild, moderate, and severe obstructive sleep apnea, respectively). Abnormal breathing detected by impulse-radio ultra-wideband radar was defined as a drop in the peak radar signal by ≥30% from that in the pre-event baseline. We compared the abnormal breathing index obtained from impulse-radio ultra-wideband radar and apnea–hypopnea index (AHI) measured from polysomnography. There was an excellent agreement between the Abnormal Breathing Index and AHI (intraclass correlation coefficient = 0.927). The overall agreements of the impulse-radio ultra-wideband radar were 0.93 for Model 1 (AHI ≥ 5), 0.91 for Model 2 (AHI ≥ 15), and 1 for Model 3 (AHI ≥ 30). Impulse-radio ultra-wideband radar accurately detected respiratory events (apneas and hypopneas) during sleep without subject contact. Therefore, impulse-radio ultra-wideband radar may be used as a screening tool for obstructive sleep apnea.
Development and Validation of a Semi-Automated Surveillance Algorithm for Cardiac Device Infections: Insights from the VA CART program
Authors: Asundi Archana , Stanislawski Maggie , Mehta Payal , Mull Hillary J. , Schweizer Marin L. , Barón Anna E. , Ho P. Michael , Gupta Kalpana , Branch-Elliman Westyn
Published: March 2020

Procedure-related cardiac electronic implantable device (CIED) infections have high morbidity and mortality, highlighting the urgent need for infection prevention efforts to include electrophysiology procedures. We developed and validated a semi-automated algorithm based on structured electronic health records data to reliably identify CIED infections. A sample of CIED procedures entered into the Veterans’ Health Administration Clinical Assessment Reporting and Tracking program from FY 2008–2015 was reviewed for the presence of CIED infection. This sample was then randomly divided into training (2/3) validation sets (1/3). The training set was used to develop a detection algorithm containing structured variables mapped from the clinical pathways of CIED infection. Performance of this algorithm was evaluated using the validation set. 2,107 unique CIED procedures from a cohort of 5,753 underwent manual review; 97 CIED infections (4.6%) were identified. Variables strongly associated with true infections included presence of a microbiology order, billing codes for surgical site infections and post-procedural antibiotic prescriptions. The combined algorithm to detect infection demonstrated high c-statistic (0.95; 95% confidence interval: 0.92–0.98), sensitivity (87.9%) and specificity (90.3%) in the validation data. Structured variables derived from clinical pathways can guide development of a semi-automated detection tool to surveil for CIED infection.
Layer-by-Layer Freezing of Nanoconfined Water
Authors: Xia Yiqing , Cho Hyeyoung , Deo Milind , Risbud Subhash H. , Bartl Michael H. , Sen Sabyasachi
Published: March 2020

Nanoconfined water plays a pivotal role in a vast number of fields ranging from biological and materials sciences to catalysis, nanofluidics and geochemistry. Here, we report the freezing and melting behavior of water (D2O) nanoconfined in architected silica-based matrices including Vycor glass and mesoporous silica SBA-15 and SBA-16 with pore diameters ranging between 4–15 nm, which are investigated using differential scanning calorimetry and 2H nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. The results provide compelling evidence that the extreme dynamical heterogeneity of water molecules is preserved over distances as small as a few angstroms. Solidification progresses in a layer-by-layer fashion with a coexistence of liquid-like and solid-like dynamical fraction at all temperatures during the transition process. The previously reported fragile-to-strong dynamic transition in nanoconfined water is argued to be a direct consequence of the layer-by-layer solidification.
Tracking the evolution of a single composite particle during redox cycling for application in H2 production
Authors: Neagu Dragos , Papaioannou Evangelos I. , Tjaden Bernhard , Lu Xuekun , Mak Cheuk-Man , Gaultois Michael W. , Ray Brian , Shearing Paul , Metcalfe Ian S.
Published: March 2020

Composite materials consisting of metal and metal oxide phases are being researched intensively for various energy conversion applications where they are often expected to operate under redox conditions at elevated temperature. Understanding of the dynamics of composite evolution during redox cycling is still very limited, yet critical to maximising performance and increasing durability. Here we track the microstructural evolution of a single composite particle over 200 redox cycles for hydrogen production by chemical looping, using multi-length scale X-ray computed tomography. We show that redox cycling triggers a centrifugal redispersion of the metal phase and a centripetal clustering of porosity, both seemingly driven by the asymmetric nature of oxygen exchange in composites. Initially, the particle develops a large amount of internal porosity which boosts activity, but on the long term this facilitates structural and compositional reorganisation and eventually degradation. These results provide valuable insight into redox-driven microstructural changes and also for the design of new composite materials with enhanced durability.
Nanoparticle corona artefacts derived from specimen preparation of particle suspensions
Authors: Ilett Martha , Matar Omar , Bamiduro Faith , Sanchez-Segado Sergio , Brydson Rik , Brown Andy , Hondow Nicole
Published: March 2020

Progress in the implementation of nanoparticles for therapeutic applications will accelerate with an improved understanding of the interface between nanoparticle surfaces and the media they are dispersed in. We examine this interface by analytical scanning transmission electron microscopy and show that incorrect specimen preparation or analysis can induce an artefactual, nanoscale, calcium phosphate-rich, amorphous coating on nanoparticles dispersed in cell culture media. We report that this ionic coating can be induced on five different types of nanoparticles (Au, BaTiO3, ZnO, TiO2 and Fe2O3) when specimen preparation causes a significant rise in pH above physiological levels. Such a pH change reduces ionic solubility in the suspending media to permit precipitation of calcium phosphate. Finally, we demonstrate that there is no indication of a calcium-phosphorus-rich coating on BaTiO3 nanoparticles suspended in culture media when prepared without alteration of the pH of the suspending media and imaged by cryo-STEM. Therefore we recommend that future reports utilising nanoparticles dispersed in cell culture media monitor and report the pH of suspensions during sample preparation.
miR-216a-targeting theranostic nanoparticles promote proliferation of insulin-secreting cells in type 1 diabetes animal model
Authors: Wang Ping , Liu Qiong , Zhao Hongwei , Bishop Jack Owen , Zhou Guoli , Olson L. Karl , Moore Anna
Published: March 2020

Aberrant expression of miRNAs in pancreatic islets is closely related to the development of type 1 diabetes (T1D). The aim of this study was to identify key miRNAs dysregulated in pancreatic islets during T1D progression and to develop a theranostic approach to modify their expression using an MRI-based nanodrug consisting of iron oxide nanoparticles conjugated to miRNA-targeting oligonucleotides in a mouse model of T1D. Isolated pancreatic islets were derived from NOD mice of three distinct age groups (3, 8 and 18-week-old). Total RNA collected from cultured islets was purified and global miRNA profiling was performed with 3D-Gene global miRNA microarray mouse chips encompassing all mouse miRNAs available on the Sanger miRBase V16. Of the miRNAs that were found to be differentially expressed across three age groups, we identified one candidate (miR-216a) implicated in beta cell proliferation for subsequent validation by RT-PCR. Alterations in miR-216a expression within pancreatic beta cells were also examined using in situ hybridization on the frozen pancreatic sections. For in vitro studies, miR-216a mimics/inhibitors were conjugated to iron oxide nanoparticles and incubated with beta cell line, βTC-6. Cell proliferation marker Ki67 was evaluated. Expression of the phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN), which is one of the direct targets of miR-216a, was analyzed using western blot. For in vivo study, the miR-216a mimics/inhibitors conjugated to the nanoparticles were injected into 12-week-old female diabetic Balb/c mice via pancreatic duct. The delivery of the nanodrug was monitored by in vivo MRI. Blood glucose of the treated mice was monitored post injection. Ex vivo histological analysis of the pancreatic sections included staining for insulin, PTEN and Ki67. miRNA microarray demonstrated that the expression of miR-216a in the islets from NOD mice significantly changed during T1D progression. In vitro studies showed that treatment with a miR-216a inhibitor nanodrug suppressed proliferation of beta cells and increased the expression of PTEN, a miR-216a target. In contrast, introduction of a mimic nanodrug decreased PTEN expression and increased beta cell proliferation. Animals treated in vivo with a mimic nanodrug had higher insulin-producing functionality compared to controls. These observations were in line with downregulation of PTEN and increase in beta cell proliferation in that group. Our studies demonstrated that miR-216a could serve as a potential therapeutic target for the treatment of diabetes. miR-216a-targeting theranostic nanodrugs served as exploratory tools to define functionality of this miRNA in conjunction with in vivo MR imaging.
OncoOmics approaches to reveal essential genes in breast cancer: a panoramic view from pathogenesis to precision medicine
Authors: López-Cortés Andrés , Paz-y-Miño César , Guerrero Santiago , Cabrera-Andrade Alejandro , Barigye Stephen J. , Munteanu Cristian R. , González-Díaz Humberto , Pazos Alejandro , Pérez-Castillo Yunierkis , Tejera Eduardo
Published: March 2020

Breast cancer (BC) is the leading cause of cancer-related death among women and the most commonly diagnosed cancer worldwide. Although in recent years large-scale efforts have focused on identifying new therapeutic targets, a better understanding of BC molecular processes is required. Here we focused on elucidating the molecular hallmarks of BC heterogeneity and the oncogenic mutations involved in precision medicine that remains poorly defined. To fill this gap, we established an OncoOmics strategy that consists of analyzing genomic alterations, signaling pathways, protein-protein interactome network, protein expression, dependency maps in cell lines and patient-derived xenografts in 230 previously prioritized genes to reveal essential genes in breast cancer. As results, the OncoOmics BC essential genes were rationally filtered to 140. mRNA up-regulation was the most prevalent genomic alteration. The most altered signaling pathways were associated with basal-like and Her2-enriched molecular subtypes. RAC1, AKT1, CCND1, PIK3CA, ERBB2, CDH1, MAPK14, TP53, MAPK1, SRC, RAC3, BCL2, CTNNB1, EGFR, CDK2, GRB2, MED1 and GATA3 were essential genes in at least three OncoOmics approaches. Drugs with the highest amount of clinical trials in phases 3 and 4 were paclitaxel, docetaxel, trastuzumab, tamoxifen and doxorubicin. Lastly, we collected ~3,500 somatic and germline oncogenic variants associated with 50 essential genes, which in turn had therapeutic connectivity with 73 drugs. In conclusion, the OncoOmics strategy reveals essential genes capable of accelerating the development of targeted therapies for precision oncology.
Identification of Faecal Maternal Semiochemicals in Swine (Sus scrofa) and their Effects on Weaned Piglets
Authors: Aviles-Rosa Edgar O. , Surowiec Kaz , McGlone John
Published: March 2020

Piglets are attracted to maternal faeces early in life. Thus, the aim of this study was to identify faecal maternal semiochemicals that attract piglets and evaluate their effects on piglets at weaning. Faecal samples were collected from eight sows during gestation and lactation. Faecal semiochemicals were extracted and identified using solid phase extraction and GC/MS. A total of 26 volatiles were present in lactating and gestating sow faeces. Sows secreted no unique semiochemical after farrowing. However, the concentration of skatole and myristic acid were 2.68 and 1.13 times higher after farrowing. A free-choice preference assessment showed that piglets had a preference for a feeder sprayed with a solution containing skatole and myristic acid. No preference was found when feeders were sprayed with skatole and myristic acid individually. The application of skatole and myristic acid to the feeders of weaned pigs significantly reduced piglet aggression by 30% and tended to increase feeding behaviour by 35% the first 24 h post-weaning. These results suggest that skatole and myristic acid might be acting as a multicomponent maternal signal that attracts piglets and has a calming effect at weaning.
Iron bioavailability from bouillon fortified with a novel ferric phytate compound: a stable iron isotope study in healthy women (part II)
Authors: Dold Susanne , Zimmermann Michael B. , Jeroense Frederike , Zeder Christophe , Habeych Edwin , Galaffu Nicola , Grathwohl Dominik , Tajeri Foman Jasmin , Merinat Sylvie , Rey Brigitte , Sabatier Magalie , Moretti Diego
Published: March 2020

Bouillon cubes are widely consumed and when fortified with iron could contribute in preventing iron deficiency. We report the development (part I) and evaluation (current part II) of a novel ferric phytate compound to be used as iron fortificant in condiments such as bouillon. Ferric pyrophosphate (FePP), is the compound of choice due to its high stability in foods, but has a modest absorption in humans. Our objective was to assess iron bioavailability from a novel iron fortificant consisting of ferric iron complexed with phytic acid and hydrolyzed corn protein (Fe-PA-HCP), used in bouillon with and without an inhibitory food matrix. In a randomised single blind, cross-over study, we measured iron absorption in healthy adult women (n = 22).In vitroiron bioaccessibility was assessed using a Caco-2 cell model. Iron absorption from Fe-PA-HCP was 1.5% and 4.1% in bouillon with and without inhibitory matrix, respectively. Relative iron bioavailability to FeSO4was 2.4 times higher than from FePP in bouillon (17% vs 7%) and 5.2 times higher when consumed with the inhibitory meal (41% vs 8%). Similar results were foundin vitro. Fe-PA-HCP has a higher relative bioavailability versus FePP, especially when bouillon is served with an inhibitory food matrix.
Author Correction: Structure-antioxidant activity relationship of methoxy, phenolic hydroxyl, and carboxylic acid groups of phenolic acids
Authors: Chen Jinxiang , Yang Jing , Ma Lanlan , Li Jun , Shahzad Nasir , Kim Chan Kyung
Published: March 2020

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
Support for instructional scaffolding with 1H NMR spectral features in organic chemistry textbook problems
Authors: Anderson Shannon Y. C. , Ong Whitney S. Y. , Momsen Jennifer L.
Published: March 2020

Nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy is vital to synthesis and provides rich problem-solving opportunities to organic chemistry students. Using the theories of scaffolding, interleaving, and blocking, our research systematically explores how textbooks introduce and reinforce spectral features when teaching students to solve 1H NMR spectroscopy problems. Specifically, we investigated the 1H NMR spectral features presented in worked examples and practice problems across four undergraduate organic chemistry textbooks. We examined the frequency and ordering of spectral features to explore how the textbooks could support scaffolded instruction. Spectral features like the number of signals and chemical shift were covered by problems more frequently, while integration was covered least. Our findings suggest that textbooks do not provide sufficient practice with all 1H NMR spectral features. We observed no discernible pattern in how textbooks ordered spectral features of 1H NMR in problems, indicating that there is little systematic method to the design of textbook chapters. Implications for textbook authors and editors, instruction, and research are discussed.
Aggregation-induced enhanced emission-type cruciform luminophore constructed by carbazole exhibiting mechanical force-induced luminescent enhancement and chromism
Authors: Xu Defang , Wang Ying , Li Li , Zhou Hongke , Liu Xingliang
Published: March 2020

A D–A type cruciform luminophore MDCS-BC exhibits aggregation-induced enhanced emission and mechanical force-induced luminescent enhancement and chromism.
Magnetic nanocomposite based on polyacrylic acid and carboxylated cellulose nanocrystal for the removal of cationic dye
Authors: Samadder Rajib , Akter Nahida , Roy Abinash Chandra , Uddin Md. Mosfeq , Hossen Md. Jahangir , Azam Md. Shafiul
Published: March 2020

A low-cost, highly efficient, and recyclable magnetic nanocomposite has been developed from polyacrylic acid and carboxylated cellulose nanocrystals for the removal of cationic dyes from the wastewater.
Analytical methods for the determination of oil carryover from CNG/biomethane refueling stations recovered in a solvent
Authors: Arrhenius Karine , Fischer Andreas , Büker Oliver , Adrien Hervé , El Masri Ahmad , Lestremau Francois , Robinson Tim
Published: March 2020

Vehicle gas is often compressed to about 200 bar at the refueling station prior to charging to the vehicle's tank.
Photocatalytic degradation of an organophosphorus pesticide using a ZnO/rGO composite
Authors: Zhu Zihan , Guo Feng , Xu Zhonghao , Di Xiaoxuan , Zhang Qian
Published: March 2020

The fabricated ZnO/rGO nanocomposites performed enhanced photocatalytic performance due to a high charge transfer rate at the ZnO/rGO interface.
Influence of an external electric field on the rapid synthesis of MoO3 micro- and nanostructures by Joule heating of Mo wires
Authors: Rodríguez B. , Hidalgo P. , Piqueras J. , Méndez B.
Published: March 2020

The growth mechanism of layered α-MoO3 nano- and microplates on the surface of Mo wires during Joule heating has been investigated by application of an external electric field to the current carrying wire.
Biological efficacy of zinc oxide nanoparticles against diabetes: a preliminary study conducted in mice
Authors: Siddiqui Shafayet Ahmed , Or Rashid Md. Mamun , Uddin Md. Giash , Robel Fataha Nur , Hossain Mohammad Salim , Haque Md. Azizul , Jakaria Md.
Published: March 2020

The antidiabetic, hypoglycemic and oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) activities of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnONPs) were assessed in mice. ZnONPs were prepared by reacting Zn(NO3)2.6H2O and NaOH solution at 70°C with continuous stirring and then characterized by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) techniques. Diabetes was induced by the intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin (STZ) in mice, and then the blood glucose levels were determined by the glucose oxidase method. The experimental results revealed that ZnONPs suggestively (p<0.001) declined the blood glucose levels (39.79%), while these reductions were 38.78% for the cotreatment of ZnONPs and insulin, and 48.60% for insulin, respectively. In the hypoglycemic study, ZnONPs (8 and 14 mg/kg b.w) reduced approximately 25.13 and 29.15% of blood glucose levels, respectively. A similar reduction was found in the OGTT test, which is also a dose- and time-dependent manner. Overall, ZnONPs possess a potential antidiabetic activity, which could be validated by further mechanistic studies.
Apelin-13 alleviated cardiac fibrosis via inhibiting the PI3K/Akt pathway to attenuate oxidative stress in rats with myocardial infarction-induced heart failure
Authors: Zhong Shan , Guo Hongli , Wang Hui , Xing Dan , Lu Tingting , Yang Jing , Wang Chen
Published: March 2020

The present study aimed to determine whether apelin-13 could attenuate cardiac fibrosis via inhibiting the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/protein kinase B (PI3K/Akt) pathway to inhibit reactive oxygen species in heart failure (HF) rats. HF models were established by inducing ischemia myocardial infarction (MI) through ligation of the left anterior descending artery in Sprague–Dawley (SD) rats. MI-induced changes in hemodynamics and cardiac function were reversed by apelin-13 administration. The increases in the levels of collagen I, collagen III, α-smooth muscle actin (SMA), and transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) in the heart of MI rats and cardiac fibroblasts (CFs) treated with angiotensin (Ang) II were inhibited by apelin-13. The levels of PI3K and p-Akt increased in Ang II-treated CFs, and these increases were blocked by apelin-13. The PI3K overexpression reversed the effects of apelin-13 on Ang II-induced increases in collagen I, collagen III, α-SMA, and TGF-β, NADPH oxidase activity and superoxide anions in CFs. Apelin-13 reduced the increases in the levels of NADPH oxidase activity and superoxide anions in the heart of MI rats and CFs with Ang II treatment. The results demonstrated that apelin-13 improved cardiac dysfunction, impaired cardiac hemodynamics, and attenuated fibrosis of CFs induced by Ang II via inhibiting the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway to inhibit oxidative stress.
Introduction of environmental innovations in the Republic of Kazakhstan
Authors: Kazhmuratova Aigerim , Akhmetkaliyeva Sandigul , Boltaeva Aigul , Moldabekova Aisulu
Published: March 2020

This article discusses the widespread use by countries of environmental innovations and new technologies, which will soon bring serious economic and social changes to the life of all mankind. The need for radical changes in methods and means of environmental protection, which reduce the technological impact on the biosphere of the earth, and contributing to the preservation of human health, is shown. Under the conditions of technoglobalism, the development of environmental innovations brings serious economic and social changes to the life of all mankind, the transition of national economies to a system of qualitatively safe energy and environmental development. This is due to the fact that the planning and implementation of the material progress of society often does not take into account the ecological foundations of the coexistence of society and the environment. The modern concept of quality of life covers all aspects of the interaction between man and the environment, and ecology is becoming a priority for the development of innovative economies in developed countries. In this context, Kazakhstan intends to continue to work to stimulate and encourage innovation and investment in the environmentally friendly production of goods and services, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and apply climate-resilient technologies.
Formation of ecological education of the population
Authors: Litvishko Valery , Akhmetova Aigul , Kodasheva Gaukhar , Zhussupova Aigerim , Malikova Rilla , Kuralova Aigerim
Published: March 2020

This article analyzes the concepts and role of environmental education of the population, and also discusses the problems of forming an ecological outlook among young people in the Republic of Kazakhstan. Solving global issues, including environmental protection, fighting the consequences of the environmental crisis, is comprehensive, including in the field of education. The solution to the vital environmental issues and problems faced by the world community is largely correlated with the prosperity of environmental education and the upbringing of the future generation. In this regard, the pedagogical and social aspects of environmental education and the education of young people is the main issue in the period of modernization in Kazakhstan. The problem of environmental education of young people should be regarded as a sovereign and self-valuable area of the educational development of the people’s personality. The characteristic features include understanding of the goals, objectives and detectors of the effectiveness of education, the orientation of educational interaction in solving global and local environmental issues, reinforcement of environmental education and practical activities of public non-governmental organizations.
Industrial development of the countries of the Eurasian Economic Union in transition to the digital economy
Authors: Rodionova Irina , Kokuytseva Tatiana
Published: March 2020

The rapid growth in high-tech production is a key development trend in the modern world industry. However, the situation in the developing countries, as well as in “transition economies” (former socialist countries) differs from the one in developed countries. The economy restructure during the transition “from plan to market” in the post-Soviet states after the collapse of the USSR did not improve the state of the industrial sector in these countries. On the contrary, some industries were lost, economic interregional and intersectoral relations were destroyed when they became sovereign countries. And their foreign trade was reoriented outside the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) and later the Eurasian Economic Union (EEU). The purpose of the article is to assess the degree of readiness of the EEU and the CIS countries as a whole for the digital transformation of the economy on the basis of an analysis of their innovative and industrial development. The differentiation of the EEU countries by the level of industrial development, as well as the degree of lagging behind global trends in the transition to a post-industrial economy, is revealed. The analysis of the positions of the EEU countries in international rankings showed, that these countries continue to yield to the world leaders in terms of innovation activity and economic development. Today this gap may even widen. Only three countries still correspond to the main trends of world innovative development in the post-Soviet space: Russia, Kazakhstan and Belarus. Others have difficulties in innovative and industrial development.
“Gas pipeline wars” in the post-Soviet space: geographical aspect
Authors: Pototskaya Tatyana
Published: March 2020

The article discusses the transformation of the territorial organization of gas pipeline transport in the post-Soviet period under the influence of the system of international relations that developed between the countries of the post-Soviet space. Notably, the author establishes the following major geographical factors affecting this process: the level of provision with natural gas and the peculiarities of the transport and geographical position of the countries. The author specifically emphasizes an active, consistent and purposeful policy on this issue in Russia, Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, and Turkmenistan, which reinforces and strengthens the geopolitical interests of these states in the examined region. Their competitive advantages are clearly indicated. Particular attention is focused on the possibility of multipurpose use of gas pipelines thanks to the connecting pipes created between them. The interest intersection of three categories of states was revealed: those of the countries in the post-Soviet space (Russia, Ukraine, Azerbaijan, Turkmenistan, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan); those of Russia and countries located in the neighboring regions (EU, China, Turkey, Iran); those of the states actively involved in investing in geological exploration, creation of mining enterprises, gas storages, construction of compressor stations on them (USA, Great Britain, Saudi Arabia, Japan, etc.).
Digital Technologies as a Driver for the Development of The Tourism Industry
Authors: Natocheeva Natalia , Shayakhmetova Liliya , Bekkhozhaeva Aigul , Khamikhan Nazgul , Pshembayeva Dolores
Published: March 2020

The article deals with the development of digitalization in the field of tourism. The authors note the motives of the tourist market subjects to use digital technologies. It is pointed out that digitalization is a new form of communication between producers and consumers of tourist services, becoming a source of competitive advantages of tourist organizations. Special attention is paid to the importance of developing eco-tourism in the Republic as the most promising segment. The role of marketing for tourism development is highlighted, the characteristics of the marketing complex and its features for tourist activities are given. The most promising directions of digitalization in the field of tourism are considered. The SWOT analysis of Kazakhstan’s tourism business is given. The study developed recommendations for using broad marketing opportunities for tourism development in the Republic of Kazakhstan.
New challenges in the financial management under the influence of financial technology
Authors: Doszhan Raigul , Nurmaganbetova Azhar , Pukala Ryszard , Yessenova Gulmira , Omar Serik , Sabidullina Ademi
Published: March 2020

Fintech, as they call companies that use the latest developments in the field of mobile payments, online lending, digital instant money transfers and other breakthrough technologies in building their business models. Organizations built on such models today are at the forefront of the latest technologies. The purpose of this article is to reveal the essence of the new concept and identify new challenges facing new financial technologies in Kazakhstan and foreign countries. The article discusses the concepts of financial management and financial technologies and their impact on the development of the economy, analyzes the indicators of the development of financial technologies in Kazakhstan and foreign countries, and identifies problems. During the writing of this thesis the theoretical methods, a comparison and a statistical methods were used. The periodicals of modern literature, magazines and Internet resources were used in this work. The theoretical and practical significance of the work consists in a broader disclosure of the conceptual apparatus and the possibility of using the results obtained in the course of the research in the activities of various institutions to develop measures to improve their activities.
Digital Economy: Information Technology and Trends in Tourism
Authors: Suyunchaliyeva Maiya , Shedenova Nazym , Kazbekov Beket , Akhmetkaliyeva Sandygul
Published: March 2020

This study provides an overview of the state of tourism development over the past twenty years in the field of information technology. It is argued that the knowledge created over the past two decades can be characterized as two distinct epochs - digitalization, which reflected a common understanding of how technology has changed our society and economy, and innovation, which implies the introduction and use of new technologies to develop the industry. Knowledge development in each of these periods, the authors describe the technological environment, the dominant paradigm, major research issues, and influential disciplines and research approaches. In particular, we recognize the transfer of our view of research in the field of information technology in tourism from a predominantly marketing tool for knowledge creation due to new technological conditions such as a smartphone, unmanned aerial vehicle, wearable devices, new connectivity and large volumes of data. Finally, this study discusses possible challenges and our current views on the relationship between information technology and tourism.
Digital economy and its role in accounting
Authors: Kupenova Zhuldyz , Baimukhanova Sariya , Nurgalieva Gulnar , Zhunisova Gulnar , Nurmukhan Aigerim
Published: March 2020

The digital economy is one of the accelerating drivers for economic growth today. In this regard, the article discusses the concept of «Digital economy», the importance of accounting and its role in the digital economy; the need for further development of theoretical and methodological provisions of accounting, state projects that have been successfully implemented in the framework of the «Digital Kazakhstan» program regarding accounting; and the transformation of accounting activities in the digitalization of the economy. The main directions of accounting modernization in the digital economy and information society are considered. Digital literacy is the knowledge and ability of a person to use information and communication technologies in their daily and professional activities. changes to the accountant’s function, adding artificial intelligence to accounting operations, Robots, or programs that process data.
Experience of Artificial Intelligence Implementation in Japan
Authors: Belova Loudmila
Published: March 2020

The main purpose of this article is to identify the essence of artificial intelligence (AI), to determine its impact on various aspects of life and to specify the knowledge gained by studying the directions of AI application in one of the most advanced countries - Japan, the world leader in robotics. Main conclusions from the study: important characteristics of the modern approach to the AI phenomenon are: first, the human pattern that once guided and motivated AI research has largely been pushed out of sight; second, this is why certain views on what we should know and do with intelligent machines are gradually emerging; third, there is a growing need to combine the efforts of research institutes in different countries in studying the theoretical aspects of AI. Japan has very good prospects for establishing and developing bilateral AI cooperation with Russia and Kazakhstan.
Conceptual Approach to Competitive and Innovative Sustainability Research of Meso-Level
Authors: Dovlatova Galina , Agafonov Anton , Vasilyuk Nаtalia , Chistyakov Anatoliy
Published: March 2020

The article presents the institutional conditions identified by the authors of the real exit of the meso-level from the crisis management model to the innovation development trajectory, conditioned by the transition to a favorable innovation-investment climate (ability to develop, introduction of innovative products and implementation of competitive goods and services). The development of the Russian economy requires large-scale innovation transformations at all levels of the hierarchy. In modern economic conditions, the formation of an appropriate level of innovation economy in Russia is due to the transition of meso-level economic systems to an innovative development path, which helps to identify effective innovation investment opportunities and their further application by one hundred percent. In this regard, in the framework of the study of the economic category of “innovation- investment attractiveness ” attention has been increasing recently not only to the cross-country aspect, but also to the study of mesosystems within countries. In our opinion, for the growth of the national economy of Russia there is a foreign trade with the participants by reducing barriers and risks for the development of entrepreneurial activity. The article is of interest to researchers, specialists in the field of economics and management, teachers, analysts, graduate students, undergraduates and students of economic universities.
Digital Modernization of the System of Public Administration: Prerogatives and Barriers
Authors: Ziyadin Sayabek , Malayev Khakimzhan , Fernández-Plazaola Igor , Ismail Gulim , Beyzhanova Anara
Published: March 2020

In most advanced countries of the world, the transition of public administration to “digital tracks” is proceeding rather slowly; development is far behind officially defined and announced schedules. In this regard, the digital modernization of the public administration system becomes particularly relevant. The purpose of the article is to identify the prerogatives for digital modernization of the public administration system, based on an assessment of the development of digital government and identification of major barriers. Based on the assessment, a high level of development of the digital government in Kazakhstan has been determined, despite the special emphasis of government agencies on automation in recent years, the visible results of the conversion of public services into electronic format are still unsatisfactory. The article discusses the main barriers and prerogatives of digital modernization of the public administration system. The authors conclude that active digital modernization of the public administration system implies the expansion of methods for analyzing and evaluating the implementation of government programs and projects, including the audit of the effectiveness and efficiency of their implementation.
Assessment of the influence of FDI on the economic growth of the host country: evidence from Kazakhstan
Authors: Rakhmatullayeva Dinara , Kuliyev Iliyas , Beisenbaiyev Zhaksylyk , Tabeyev Talgat
Published: March 2020

The article examines the impact of FDI inflows on the economic growth of the host country, using the Kazakhstan economy as an example. The authors attempted to assess the impact of FDI using a multiple regression model. As a measure of economic growth, Kazakhstan’s GDP data for the period 2000-2017 was used. The simulation results didn’t reveal the negative impact of FDI on economic growth, but the analysis revealed that the presence of a positive relationship is not essential for assessing the growth of the national economy.
Porous aggregate development for lightweight concrete
Authors: Miryuk Olga
Published: March 2020

The article presents the results of studies of a porous aggregate and lightweight concrete obtained using liquid glass and man-made materials (glass cullet, magnetite ore dressing waste, substandard rocks). Feasibility of a multicomponent feed mixture for pyroplastic swelling of granules is substantiated. Optimization of raw mix composition provided the possibility of combining various formation mechanisms of porous granules. A set of technological solutions has been developed aimed at improving the conditions of molding and hardening of raw granules. A method for preparing a raw material mass is proposed that minimizes structural defects of porous granules. Possibility of capacity reaction of a raw mixture due to mechanical activation of solid components and introduction of sodium additives is proved. Technological conditions for low-temperature expansion of a multicomponent mixture and production of porous granules with a density of not more than 300 kg/m3 are determined. The formula of molding mixture for obtaining lightweight concrete using a porous aggregate is proposed. The use of liquid glass as a binder in a concrete mixture is preferred. The temperature of concrete hardening is recommended. The technology of porous concrete developed implements multifunctional properties of liquid glass, provides the use of technogenic materials, saving of energy resources.