bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
N-acetylcysteine alleviates PCB52-induced hepatotoxicity by repressing oxidative stress and inflammatory responses
Authors: Zhou Wen-Tao , Wang Li-Bin , Yu Hao , Zhang Kai-Kai , Chen Li-Jian , Wang Qi , Xie Xiao-Li
Published: August 2020

Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), particularly low chlorinated congeners in our environment, can induce human hepatotoxicity. However, the mechanisms by which PCBs cause hepatotoxicity remain elusive. Moreover, there are no effective treatments for this condition. In this study, 40 μM PCB52 was administered to rat (Brl-3A) and human hepatocytes (L-02) for 48 h following the N-acetylcysteine (NAC)/saline pretreatment. A significant decrease in cell viability was observed in PCB52-treated cells relative to the control. Besides, PCB52 significantly increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels and malondialdehyde (MDA) contents, suggesting induction of oxidative stress. The expression of Traf6, MyD88, and Tnf in Brl-3A cells and that of MYD88, TNF, and IL1B in L-02 cells were significantly upregulated by PCB52. Consistently, overexpression of TLR4, MyD88, Traf6, and NF-κB p65 proteins was observed in PCB52-treated cells, indicating activation of inflammatory responses. Nevertheless, no changes in kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (keap1), nuclear factor-erythroid 2-related factor (nrf2), and heme oxygenase-1 proteins were observed in PCB52-treated cells, indicating non-activation of the keap1/nrf2 pathway. Pretreatment with NAC significantly ameliorated PCB52 effects on cell viability, ROS levels, MDA contents and expression of inflammatory elements at both RNA and protein levels. However, no changes in keap1, nrf2 and HO-1 protein levels were detected following NAC pretreatment. Taken together, with non-activated keap1/nrf2 pathway, PCB52-induced oxidative stress and inflammatory responses could be responsible for its hepatotoxicity. These effects were effectively attenuated by NAC pretreatment, which scavenges ROS and dampens inflammatory responses. This study might provide novel strategies for the treatment of the PCBs-associated hepatotoxic effects.
Comparing transcriptome profiles of human embryo cultured in closed and standard incubators
Authors: Li Jingyu , Huang Jiayu , Han Wei , Shen Xiaoli , Gao Ying , Huang Guoning
Published: August 2020

It is necessary to compare the transcriptomic profiles of human embryos cultured in time-lapse imaging (TLI) incubators and standard incubators (SI) in order to determine whether a closed culture system has a positive impact on embryos. In this study, we used RNA-sequencing (RNA-Seq) to characterize and compare the gene expression profiles of eight-cell embryos of the same quality grade cultured in TLI and SI. We sequenced a total of 580,952,620 reads for zygotes, TLI-cultured, and SI-cultured eight-cell embryos. The global transcriptomic profiles of the TLI embryos were similar to those of the SI embryos and were highly distinct from the zygotes. We also detected 539 genes showing differential expression between the TLI and SI groups with a false discovery rate (FDR) < 0.05. Using gene ontology enrichment analysis, we found that the highly expressed SI genes tended to execute functions such as transcription, RNA splicing, and DNA repair, and that the highly expressed TLI genes were enriched in the cell differentiation and methyltransferase activity pathways. This study, the first to use transcriptome analysis to compare SI and TLI, will serve as a basis for assessing the safety of TLI application in assisted reproductive technology.
Assessment of Water Quality of Odor River, Anambra State
Authors: Ekwueme Godspower Onyekachukwu , Okechukwu Aronu Charles , Otty Nkechi Udochukwu
Published: August 2020

Aim: This study examined the physicochemical and bacteriological parameters of Odor River in Orumba North, Anambra State. The parameters considered were pH, turbidity, temperature, Dissolved Oxygen (DO), Alkalinity, total hardness, Sulphate ( ), Chloride, Calcium ( ) hardness, Magnesium ( ) hardness, Iron (Fe), Nitrate  (NO3-), Conductivity, Total Dissolved Solids (TDS), Total coliform and Escherichia coli (E. coli).  The objectives of the study were to assess the similarities that exist amongst the physicochemical and bacteriological parameters of Odor River in Orumba North, Anambra State. Also, to test whether water from Odor river is safe for drinking by the people of Orumba North and its environs.

Methodology: The Cluster analysis and the one-sample T-test method were used to analyze the data obtained for this study.

Results: The findings of the study revealed that the parameters can be grouped in two groups as follows: group A consists of pH, turbidity, temperature, Dissolved Oxygen (DO), Alkalinity, total hardness, Sulphate ( ), Chloride, Calcium ( ) hardness, Magnesium ( ) hardness, Iron (Fe), Nitrate  (NO3-), and Conductivity while group B consists of Total Dissolved Solids (TDS), Total coliform and E.coli. The physicochemical parameters were found to impact significantly on the variation of the water quality at 5% significant level and their measures did not exceed the World Health Organization (WHO) standard. Further findings revealed that the bacteriological parameters such as the Escherichia Coli and Total Coliform do not significantly impact on the water quality variation of the river and their measures do not exceed the WHO standard.  

Conclusion: The physicochemical and bacteriological parameters of Odor River were found to be within the WHO Standard. However, the physicochemical parameters were found to impact on the water quality variation of the river while the bacteriological parameters do not impact on the variation of the water quality of the river. The implication of the physicochemical and bacteriological parameters not exceeding the WHO standard indicates no risk for the users of the river. Hence, water from Odor River is safe for human consumption and agricultural purposes.
Effect of Bagging on Quality and Shelf Life of Mango (Mangifera indica L.) cv. BARI Mango- 4
Authors: Islam M. T. , Akter M. M. , Rahman M. H. , Uddin M. S. , Bari M. A. , Islam M. , Rahman M. A.
Published: August 2020

The study was conducted to manage mango pests with maintaining fruit quality through fruit bagging technology. This research was executed from April, 2019 to August, 2019 for ensuring safe mango production with minimum use of pesticides. The fruits were bagged at the age of 45 to 50 days with different types of bags. Four treatments viz: No bagging (control), Brown paper double-layered bag; White paper single-layered bag; Transparent polythene bag were included. Apparently, brown and white paper bag showed maximum fruit weight (557.90 g and 498.67g), fruit length (10.77 and 10.67 cm), fruit diameter (24.90 and 24.67 cm) and pulp weight (465 and 453 g) respectively, compared to control treatment while polythene bag gave the minimum result. Meanwhile in bagging fruit chemical parameters of ascorbic acid, reducing and non reducing sugars, total sugars, total soluble solids, percent of citric acid and β-carotene were improved over polythene bag and control. The fruit color was non-persistent in brown paper bag. The sensory attributes of color and flavor in fruits of brown bags were improved over control. Fruit retention was significantly enhanced with brown paper bag (88.67%), white paper bag (87.00%) and control (82.33%) compared to polythene bag (61.33%). Fruits with brown paper bag gave the highest shelf life up to 12.67 days with the lowest weight loss and good physical appearances as against 10.67 days of control fruits. The infestation of fruit fly also had reduced by pre-harvest fruit bagging. These results indicate that fruit bagging can enhance fruit quality and shelf life of mango cv. BARI mango-4 through reduction insect-pest attack.
Selenastrum capricornutum Prinz, Zea mays L. and Phaseolus vulgaris L. Biomonitors: Natural Monitors of Spent Phone Battery Toxicity
Authors: Uba Bright Obidinma , Egbujor Joseph Chukwuemeka , Umeh Odera Richard
Published: August 2020

Aims: This study was undertaken to monitor the different effects of spent Toshiba and Dell laptop battery on the growth and germination indices of Selenastrum capricornutum Prinz, Zea mays L. and Phaseolus vulgaris L.

Study Design: Five treatments and the controls designs designated as 6.25%, 12.5%, 25%, 50%, 100% and CTRL were set up in triplicates and incubated at 25 ± 2°C for 72 h and 5 days.

Place and Duration of Study: Department of Microbiology, Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University (COOU), Uli Anambra State, Nigeria during May, 2019 - December, 2019.

Methodology: The algal growth inhibition was analyzed using spectrophotometric method while growth and germination indices were adopted for the seed growth inhibition.

Results: The result revealed that the positive control K2Cr2O7 had the lowest ErC10 (-86.65 mg/L) and the highest ErC90 (130.92 mg/L) while the spent Dell battery sample had the highest ErC10 (10.18 mg/L) and spent Toshiba battery sample had the lowest ErC90 (75.52 mg/L) on Selenastrum capricornutum growth rate, respectively. Boric acid standard toxicant had the highest EC50 (-12.62 mg/kg and -14.30 mg/kg) on Z. mays and P. vulgaris while Toshiba and Dell battery samples had the lowest EC50 (-73.03 mg/kg and -22.37 mg/kg) on Z. mays and P. vulgaris, respectively.

Conclusion: The study revealed that both S. capricornutum, Z. mays L. and P. vulgaris L. were very good bio-monitoring models for spent Toshiba and Dell laptop battery contamination assessment; and are therefore recommended for E-wastes bioassays.
Food Prices and the Challenge of Food Security in Bayelsa State, Nigeria
Authors: Ochuba Onyinye Ifeoma , Cookey Ibeinmo Friday
Published: August 2020

High food prices are seen as synonymous with food insecurity. This is because it defiles one of the four cardinals of food security; food accessibility. To ensure the attainment of food security which is a common denominator in the United Nation’s MDGs and SDG as eradication of hunger, food must be economically accessible by all and sundry. Bayelsa State has been bedevilled by exorbitant food prices as confirmed by NBS data released in March 2020 which placed the state as having the highest cost in 15 out of 43 food items reviewed. This placed it as the state where food is most expensive in the federation. This study employing the tool purposive structured interview and schedule sought the view of 400 traders from five markets in the state capital, Yenagoa. Also 15 food truck drivers were interviewed. Using frequencies and percentages, the result showed that the key contributors to high food prices in the state are high dependence on food importation from within and outside the nation as the natives are not farmers, activities of touts, oil pollution, absence of large mechanized farms in the state, poor road network among others. The study strongly suggests the harmonisation of taskforce collecting agencies to eradicate multiple levies that are currently ongoing. It also suggested improved investment in agriculture by both public and private sectors with comparative advantage in mind to ensure that the potentials of the state in agriculture are adequately harnessed.
Static Water Level and Elevation Analyses of Shallow Hand-Dug Wells in Ilorin Metropolis, Nigeria
Authors: Odipe Oluwaseun E. , Sawyerr Henry O. , Adewoye Solomon O.
Published: August 2020

Aim: This study was conducted to reveal the depth to water level and surface elevation in selected hand-dug wells within Ilorin metropolis to assist in planning and management of water resources within the study area.

Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted in Ilorin metropolis, North Central,           Nigeria.

Methodology: A total of twenty-six (26) hand-dug wells were sampled and relevant spatial information was acquired using a handheld GPS; data collected include: longitude, latitude, elevation and depth to water, then the static water level above sea level was estimated by the difference between depth to water and elevation. Statistical analyses such as mean and standard deviation were determined, also a base map, contour maps and 3-D elevation model of the study area were produced using ArcGIS 10.4 and Surfer 10 software.

Results: The depth to water within the study area ranges between 1.6 m and 13.3m, while elevation were between 284.1 m and 377.9 m, then the static water level ranges between 270.8 m and 371.4 m. The static water level contour map showed a radial and multidimensional groundwater flow pattern trending in the NE–SW and NW–SE directions while the 3-D elevation model revealed an undulating terrain.

Conclusion: The study concluded that the depth to groundwater is relatively shallow and this can guide proper development and management of groundwater resources within the metropolis.
Comparative Analysis of Serum Lipoprotein (a) in Hypothyroid and Healthy Subjects
Authors: Rina Leishangthem , Kalaiselvi V. S. , Shanthi B.
Published: August 2020

This study is taken up to estimate and compare the level of serum Lp(a) in hypothyroid patients and in healthy controls. A total of 50  hypothyroid patients within aged group 20-60 years and total of 50 healthy controls within 20-60 years were enrolled in the study after taking written consent.  Thyroid profile and Lp(a) were measured by CLIA and immune turbidemetric method respectively. Data collected was analysed using Stata version 14.1 software. Result shows an increased level of Lp(a) among hypothyroid patients when compared to healthy controls.
Review on Pharmacoscintigraphy
Authors: Kumari P. V. Kamala , Anitha S. , Rao Y. Srinivasa
Published: August 2020

Pharmacoscintigraphy is a non-invasive technique for determining the fate of drugs after administration into humans. Collecting valuable information through the pharmacoscintigraphy about absorption and release mechanisms of drugs from formulations, and thus proving to be an invaluable tool in developing newer and more effective formulations. Such studies can be used to determine the behavior of drugs, formulation as well as diagnostic agents that are administered. In this technique, radiolabelled formulations are administered to patients by their intended route of administration. Their transit through the body is monitored using sophisticated imaging cameras. Since the amount of radiotracer that is used is very low, this is a safe, efficient, and accurate method for studying the behavior of drugs in the human body. Preclinical studies of newer drugs have successfully been carried out using the pharmacoscintigraphic technique.
The Battle with COVID-19: Insight on External Intervention and Future Vaccination
Authors: Hakim Ashraf S. , Syame Sohier M. , Shehata Mohamed M. , Sayed Ahmed Taha A.
Published: August 2020

The battle against the pandemic novel coronavirus infection (namely COVID-19) that gravely hurts human health is a global mission for all humanity. Currently, there are no specific COVID-19 therapies; immune-suppressors as corticosteroids, protease inhibitor antivirals, monoclonal antibody analogues as well as prospective plasma therapy. Because of the possible adverse effects and continuous emerging doubts about the drugs combating COVID-19; certain medicinal plants and dietary herbs are potentially used to prevent or cure COVID-19. Nowadays investigations and clinical trials focused on development of safe and effective either drugs or vaccines to control even stop COVID-19 in near future. Providing comprehensive spotlights on virus pathogenesis, host cell interaction, immunological response, potential therapy, and vaccine emergence for COVID-19 is discussed in this article.
ASPECTOS INSTIGANTES DO SINDICALISMO NA CONTEMPORANEIDADE: LIBERDADE, SOLIDARIEDADE E CRISE
Authors: Cirino Valadão Carla , Moreira Reis Ítalo
Published: August 2020

O objetivo deste artigo é discutir a crise do atual modelo sindical. Para isso, é preciso discorrer sobre as alterações vivenciadas na sociedade, desde os tempos de modernidade sólida até a modernidade líquida. Também é necessário discorrer sobre os novos tipos de trabalhadores e como as entidades coletivas de trabalho lidam com a realidade atual. Discute-se, ainda, a liberdade sindical no contexto nacional, na medida em que a inexistência de efetiva liberdade é uma das causas para a crise enfrentada pelas organizações sindicais. Pretende-se analisar também outros fatores que contribuem para a ausência de representatividade e mitigação do sentimento de solidariedade entre os trabalhadores.
RESPONSIBILITY AS THE FOUNDATION OF ETHICS: POLITICAL, TECHNOLOGICAL AND ECONOMIC RESPONSIBILITY
Authors: Dahl Rendtorff Jacob
Published: August 2020

In this paper I would like to show the importance of the concept of responsibility as the foundation of ethics in particular in the fields of politics and economics in the modern civilisation marked by globalization and technological progres. I consider the concept of responsibility as the key notion in order to understand the ethical duty in a modern technological civilisation. We can indeed observe a moralization of the concept of responsibility going beyond a strict legal definition in terms of imputability. The paper begins by discussing the humanistic foundations of such a concept of responsibility. It treats the historical origins of responsibility and it relates this concept to the concept of accountability.  On the basis of this historical determination of the concept I would like to present the definition of the concept of responsibility as fundamental ethical principle that has increasing importance as the foundation of the principles of governance in modern welfare states. In this context the paper discusses the extension of the concept of responsibility towards institutional or corporate responsibility where responsibility does not only concerns the responsibility of individuals but also deals with the responsibility of institutional collectivities. In this way the paper is based on the following structure : 1) The ethical foundation of the concept of responsibility 2) Responsibility in technological civilisation 3) Political responsibility for good governance in the welfare state 4) Social responsibility of business corporations in times of globalization 5)  Conclusion and discussion : changed conditions of responsibility in modern times.
Watkins, Mark Hanna
Authors: Stanlaw James
Published: August 2020

Mark Hanna Watkins (1910–1976) was the first African American to receive a PhD in anthropology. His dissertation was a seminal milestone in structuralist linguistics.
Comparing progression biomarkers in clinical trials of early Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Cullen Nicholas C. , Zetterberg Henrik , Insel Philip S. , Olsson Bob , Andreasson Ulf ,   the Alzheimer’s Disease Neuroimaging Initiative, Blennow Kaj , Hansson Oskar , Mattsson‐Carlgren Niklas
Published: August 2020

Objective

To investigate the statistical power of plasma, imaging, and cognition biomarkers as Alzheimer’s disease (AD) clinical trial outcome measures.

Methods

Plasma neurofilament light, structural magnetic resonance imaging, and cognition were measured longitudinally in the Alzheimer’s Disease Neuroimaging Initiative (ADNI) in control (amyloid PET or CSF Aβ42 negative [Aβ‐] with Clinical Dementia Rating scale [CDR] = 0; n = 330), preclinical AD (Aβ + with CDR = 0; n = 218) and mild AD (Aβ + with CDR = 0.5‐1; n = 697) individuals. A statistical power analysis was performed across biomarkers and groups based on longitudinal mixed effects modeling and using several different clinical trial designs.

Results

For a 30‐month trial of preclinical AD, both the temporal composite and hippocampal volumes were superior to plasma neurofilament light and cognition. For an 18‐month trial of mild AD, hippocampal volume was superior to all other biomarkers. Plasma neurofilament light became more effective with increased trial duration or sampling frequency. Imaging biomarkers were characterized by high slope and low within‐subject variability, while plasma neurofilament light and cognition were characterized by higher within‐subject variability.

Interpretation

MRI measures had properties that made them preferable to cognition and pNFL as outcome measures in clinical trials of early AD, regardless of cognitive status. However, pNfL and cognition can still be effective depending on inclusion criteria, sampling frequency, and response to therapy. Future trials will help to understand how sensitive pNfL and MRI are to detect downstream effects on neurodegeneration of drugs targeting amyloid and tau pathology in AD.
Mechanotribological Aspects of MXene‐Reinforced Nanocomposites
Authors: Malaki Massoud , Varma Rajender S.
Published: August 2020

MXenes are recently discovered 2D nanomaterial with superior mechanical, thermal, and tribological properties, being commonly employed in a wide variety of critical research areas, ranging from cancer therapy to energy and environmental applications. Due to their special properties, such as mechanoceramic nature with excellent mechanical performance, thermal stability and rich surface properties, MXenes have tremendous potential as advanced composite structures, especially those based on polymers due to a great affinity between macromolecules and the terminating groups of 2D MXenes. MXenes have been extensively explored in metal matrix nanocomposites as well as in solid‐ or liquid‐based lubrication systems owing to the 2D structure and antifriction characteristics. The purpose of the this paper is to provide a comprehensive insight into the material, mechanical, and tribological properties of the MXene nanolayers with discussions on the recent advancements attained from MXene‐reinforced nanocomposites starting with the synthesis, fabrication techniques, intricacies of the underlying physics and mechanisms, and finally focusing on the progress in computational studies. This analysis of MXene‐based composites will stimulate an emerging field with innumerable opportunities and ample potentials to produce newfangled materials and structures with targeted properties.
A Human‐Based Functional NMJ System for Personalized ALS Modeling and Drug Testing
Authors: Guo Xiufang , Smith Virginia , Jackson Max , Tran My , Thomas Michael , Patel Aakash , Lorusso Eric , Nimbalkar Siddharth , Cai Yunqing , McAleer Christopher W. , Wang Ying , Long Christopher J. , Hickman James J.
Published: August 2020

Loss of the neuromuscular junction (NMJ) is an early and critical hallmark in all forms of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Herein, a functional NMJ disease model is developed by integrating motoneurons (MNs) differentiated from multiple ALS‐patients’ induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) and primary human muscle into a chambered system. NMJ functionality is tested by recording myotube contractions while stimulating MNs by field electrodes and a set of clinically relevant parameters is defined to characterize the NMJ function. Three ALS lines are analyzed, two with SOD1 mutations and one with an FUS mutation. The ALS‐MNs reproduce pathological phenotypes, including increased axonal varicosities, reduced axonal branching and elongation, and increased excitability. These MNs form functional NMJs with wild type muscle, but with significant deficits in NMJ quantity, fidelity, and fatigue index. Furthermore, treatment with the Deanna protocol is found to correct the NMJ deficits in all the ALS mutant lines tested. Quantitative analysis also reveals the variations inherent in each mutant line. This functional NMJ system provides a platform for the study of both fALS and sALS and has the capability of being adapted into subtype‐specific or patient‐specific models for ALS etiological investigation and patient stratification for drug testing.
Machine learning‐based distributed model predictive control of nonlinear processes
Authors: Chen Scarlett , Wu Zhe , Rincon David , Christofides Panagiotis D.
Published: August 2020

This work explores the design of distributed model predictive control (DMPC) systems for nonlinear processes using machine learning models to predict nonlinear dynamic behavior. Specifically, sequential and iterative DMPC systems are designed and analyzed with respect to closed‐loop stability and performance properties. Extensive open‐loop data within a desired operating region are used to develop long short‐term memory (LSTM) recurrent neural network models with a sufficiently small modeling error from the actual nonlinear process model. Subsequently, these LSTM models are utilized in Lyapunov‐based DMPC to achieve efficient real‐time computation time while ensuring closed‐loop state boundedness and convergence to the origin. Using a nonlinear chemical process network example, the simulation results demonstrate the improved computational efficiency when the process is operated under sequential and iterative DMPCs while the closed‐loop performance is very close to the one of a centralized MPC system.
A Tetraphenylbenzene‐Based AIE Luminogen with Donor‐Acceptor Structure: Unique Mechanochromic Emission and High Exciton Utilization
Authors: Han Pengbo , Lin Chengwei , Ma Dongge , Qin Anjun , Tang Ben Zhong
Published: August 2020

Luminogens featuring aggregation‐induced emission characteristics (AIEgens) have been widely applied in high‐performance non‐doped blue organic light‐emitting diodes (OLEDs). However, AIEgens with high exciton utilization are rare. Herein, a tetraphenylbenzene (TPB)‐based AIEgen of PXZ‐TPB‐CN, in which phenoxazine (PXZ) and cyano (CN) serve as strong electron‐donating and withdrawing group, respectively, was rationally designed and facilely synthesized. PXZ‐TPB‐CN exhibits a unique mechanochromic luminescence. The lifetime of its ground powders and films exhibits a new decay component compared with the pristine powders, which attributes to the reverse intersystem crossing from the high‐lying triplet state process according to the theoretical calculation. To further verify this process, a non‐doped OLED using PXZ‐TPB‐CN as emitting layer was fabricated, and a much higher maximum external quantum efficiency (EQE) of the device than that of theoretical one was obtained, suggesting that triplet excitons are involved in a radiative process. In addition, the high horizontally oriented dipoles also contribute to this high EQE. This work provides a new strategy to realize blue AIEgen‐based OLEDs with high exciton utilization by attaching strong donors and acceptors on twisted AIE cores.
Possible implications of animal models for the assessment of visceral pain
Authors: Regmi Bharata , Shah Manoj K.
Published: August 2020

Acute pain, provoked generally after the activation of peripheral nociceptors, is an adaptive sensory function that alerts the individual to avoid noxious stimuli. However, uncontrolled acute pain has a maladaptive role in sensory activity leading to development of a chronic pain state which persists even after the damage is resolved, or in some cases, in the absence of an initial local acute injury. Huge numbers of people suffer from visceral pain at least once during their life span, leading to substantial health care costs. Although studies reporting on the mechanism of visceral pain are accumulating, it is still not precisely understood. Therefore, this review aims to elucidate the mechanism of visceral pain through an evaluation of different animal models and their application to develop novel therapeutic approaches for treating visceral pain. To assess the nociceptive responses in viscera, several visceral pain models such as inflammatory, traction, stress and genetic models utilizing different methods of measurement have been devised. Among them, the inflammatory and traction models are widely used for studying the visceral pain mechanism of different disease conditions and post‐operative surgery in humans and animals. A hapten, 2,4,6‐trinitrobenzene sulfonic acid (TNBS), has been extensively used as an inflammatory agent to induce visceral pain. The traction model seems to cause a strong pain stimulation and autonomic reaction and could thus be the most appropriate model for studying the underlying visceral pain mechanism and for probing the therapeutic efficacies of various anesthetic and analgesics for the treatment of visceral pain and hyperalgesia.
Facile synthesis of up‐conversionCit‐NaYF4:Yb,Tm @phenol‐formaldehyde resin@Ag composites for the sensitive detection ofS2−
Authors: Sun Xiangfei , Yang Ping , Wang Shaohua , Feng Lina , Shi Jianjun
Published: August 2020

In this work, we synthesized the core‐shell structure citric acid‐modified up‐conversion luminescent nanoparticles (Cit‐NaYF4:Yb,Tm) (denoted as UC)@ polymer of phenol‐formaldehyde resin (PFR) particles. Ag nanoparticles were successfully loaded onto the PFR's shell by direct reduction of AgNO3in situ with rich hydroxyl groups in PFR and a new application of the UC@PFR@Ag composites for detection of S2−was investigated. A good linear relationship between the fluorescence intensity of as‐synthesis of UC@PFR@Ag composites and the concentration of S2−could be found within the range of 2–100 nM (R2= 0.9929) with a limit of detection of 0.67 nM. The values of S2−content in actual water samples obtained with the proposed method are much closer to unity as compared to the corresponding values obtained with the UV method.
Evaluation of isoindole derivatives: Antioxidant potential and cytotoxicity in the HT‐29 colon cancer cells
Authors: Kılıç Süloğlu Aysun , Selmanoglu Güldeniz , Gündoğdu Özlem , Kishalı Nurhan H. , Girgin Gözde , Palabıyık Sezin , Tan Ayşe , Kara Yunus , Baydar Terken
Published: August 2020

Norcantharimides have an isoindole skeleton structure, and some isoindoline derivatives have positive effects on inflammatory pathologies, including cancers. The present study aims to evaluate the antioxidant and cytotoxic potential of four synthesized isoindoline derivatives (NCTD1–4). HT‐29 cells exposed to 10, 50, 100, and 200 µM doses of each derivative were incubated for 24 and 48 h, respectively. The cytotoxicity of the new derivatives was analyzed using the cell growth inhibition assay and the cell membrane damage test. In vitro antioxidant activity studies showed that the derivatives have free radical‐scavenging effects in a dose‐dependent manner. NCTD3 and NCTD4 apparently have antioxidant effects when compared with the control group treated with dimethyl sulfoxide. Furthermore, NCTD4 inhibited the growth of the HT‐29 cells due to membrane damage and exhibited a dose‐dependent cytotoxic effect on colon adenocarcinoma cells. The findings suggest that NDTD4 has the highest potential for colon cancer treatment and may be interpreted as a candidate anticancer agent.
Potential of game «PLANT TISSUE CULTURE» in bioengineering education as distance laboratory classes
Authors: Balci Mehmet Ali , Akgüller Ömer , Kaya Ergun , Rzhevska Nataliia , Dobroskok Irina , Basiuk Liubov , Kosa Tetiana
Published: August 2020

This study evaluates the effectiveness of the developed game as a form of distance laboratory works at the Universities of Turkey and Ukraine. Studying the effectiveness of laboratory research concerning engineering education, biotechnology can be significantly improved through the use of games. The purpose of the application is to develop laboratory work in the form of a computer game using the Unity platform management. The study was attended by students of the Molecular Biology and Genetic Departments in Turkey and Professional Education in Ukraine, and 376 students took part in the experiment (total of 203 Turkish and 173 Ukrainian students). The analysis of variance test was used to evaluate the opinions of 347 students, taking into account the aspect of nationality and gender distribution. The results of the data analysis showed that students' appreciation of the proposed gamified laboratory work is high regardless of their nationality, although females were more encouraged by the proposed development. Therefore, the study showed the possibility to further use laboratory classes in the gaming environment, create online gamified laboratory classes with the possibility of virtual exchange with students from different countries. The proposed questionnaire for student interventions can be used to evaluate the effectiveness of experimental models, thereby increasing the model's efficiency and training quality.
Improving learner engagement in MOOCs using a learning intervention system: A research study in engineering education
Authors: Cobos Ruth , Ruiz‐Garcia Juan Carlos
Published: August 2020

The development of web applications is an essential and critical skill for Computer Science Engineers. Nowadays, this is a core subject in the Computer Science Engineering Studies and an increasingly demanded subject in other Engineering Studies. With the aim to facilitate introductory know‐how in this area, the University Autónoma of Madrid offers at edX Platform the Massive Open Online Course (MOOC): “Introduction to Development of Web Applications”. Several studies have emphasised the positive impact of methods, such as the use of continuous feedback, to improve and promote learning persistence and engagement in online courses. We propose a system for periodically providing MOOC learners information about their progress and suggestions about how can they can improve their learner performance based on their achievements and interactions in MOOCs. This system is called Learning Intervention System for edX MOOCs (edX‐LIS). To test the intervention strategy on learners' behaviour supported by edX‐LIS, a research study was conducted with the learners of the mentioned MOOC. The results obtained from this study have demonstrated that the intervention strategy supported by the edX‐LIS has a positive impact on the motivation, persistence and engagement of the learners in the MOOC.
Doubly Boron‐Doped TADF Emitters Decorated with ortho‐Donor Groups for Highly Efficient Green to Red OLEDs
Authors: Kumar Ajay , Shin Han Young , Lee Taehwan , Jung Jaehoon , Jung Byung Jun , Lee Min Hyung
Published: August 2020

Doubly boron‐doped thermally activated delayed fluorescence (TADF) emitters based on a 9,10‐diboraanthracene (DBA) acceptor decorated with ortho‐donor groups (Cz2oDBA, 2; BuCz2oDBA, 3; DMAC2oDBA, 4) are prepared to realize high‐efficiency green‐to‐red organic light‐emitting diodes (OLEDs). X‐ray diffraction analyses of 2 and 4 reveal the symmetrical and highly twisted ortho‐donor–acceptor–donor (D‐A‐D) structure of the emitters. The twisted conformation leads to a very small energy splitting (ΔEST <0.08 eV) between the excited singlet and triplet states that gives rise to strong TADF, as supported by theoretical studies. Depending on the strength of the donor moieties, the emission color is fine‐tuned in the visible region from green (2) to yellow (3) to red (4). Carbazole‐containing 2 and 3 exhibit high photoluminescence quantum yields (PLQYs) approaching 100 %, whereas DMAC‐substituted 4 is moderately emissive (PLQY=44 %) in a doped host film. Highly efficient green‐to‐red TADF‐OLEDs are realized with the proposed ortho‐D‐A‐D compounds as emitters. The green and yellow OLEDs incorporating Cz2oDBA (2) and BuCz2oDBA (3) emitters exhibit high external quantum efficiencies (EQEs) of 26.6 % and 21.6 %, respectively. In particular, the green device shows an excellent power efficiency above 100 lm W−1. A red OLED fabricated with a DMAC2oDBA (4) emitter exhibits a maximum EQE of 10.1 % with an electroluminescence peak at 615 nm.
Polyphenolic compounds with biological activity in guabiroba fruits (Campomanesia xanthocarpaBerg.) by comprehensive two‐dimensional liquid chromatography
Authors: Grutzmann Arcari Stefany , Arena Katia , Kolling Jeferson , Rocha Paloma , Dugo Paola , Mondello Luigi , Cacciola Francesco
Published: August 2020

This study aimed to evaluate the polyphenolic composition along with the biological activity of guabiroba (Campomanesia xanthocarpaBerg.) fruits using comprehensive two‐dimensional liquid chromatography (LC × LC). A simplex centroid design comprising three solvents (methanol, 2% acetic acid, and acetonitrile) was used to optimize the extraction mixture for polyphenols from ripe and unripe guabiroba fruits. A quantitative LC × LC platform was proposed to characterize the guabiroba extracts using a RP‐Amide column and a C18 column in the first and second dimensions, respectively. Antidiabetic properties, usingin vitroenzyme assay models andin vivoantioxidant activity with the eukaryote modelSaccharomyces cerevisiae, was measured. Total phenolics compounds were more efficiently extracted with 2% acetic acid solution and acetonitrile (50:50, v/v). A total of 37 different compounds were identified and quantified using the proposed LC × LC method (linearity ranging from 0.9990 to 0.9994, intra‐ and interday precision from 0.40 to 10.57% and, accuracy from 81.89 to 108.98%). Significant differences were observed between ripe and unripe guabiroba fruits, especially for the compounds geraldone and methyl galangin isomer. Guabiroba fruits showed significant antidiabetic and antioxidant properties and may be potentially adopted as part of dietary strategies in the management of early stages of type 2 diabetes and associated complications.
A framework for pathway knowledge driven prioritization in genome‐wide association studies
Authors: Biswas Shrayashi , Pal Soumen , Majumder Partha P. , Bhattacharjee Samsiddhi
Published: August 2020

Many variants with low frequencies or with low to modest effects likely remain unidentified in genome‐wide association studies (GWAS) because of stringent genome‐wide thresholds for detection. To improve the power of detection, variant prioritization based on their functional annotations and epigenetic landmarks has been used successfully. Here, we propose a novel method of prioritization of a GWAS by exploiting gene‐level knowledge (e.g., annotations to pathways and ontologies) and show that it further improves power. Often, disease associated variants are found near genes that are coinvolved in specific biological pathways relevant to disease process. Utilization of this knowledge to conduct a prioritized scan increases the power to detect loci that map to genes clustered in a few specific pathways. We have developed a computationally scalable framework based on penalized logistic regression (termed GKnowMTest—Genomic Knowledge‐guided Multiplte Testing) to enable a prioritized pathway‐guided GWAS scan with a very large number of gene‐level annotations. We demonstrate that the proposed strategy improves overall power and maintains the Type 1 error globally. Our method works on genome‐wide summary level data and a user‐specified list of pathways (e.g., those extracted from large pathway databases without reference to biology of a specific disease). It automatically reweights the input p values by incorporating the pathway enrichments as “adaptively learned” from the data using a cross‐validation technique to avoid overfitting. We used whole‐genome simulations and some publicly available GWAS data sets to illustrate the application of our method. The GKnowMTest framework has been implemented as a user‐friendly open‐source R package.
Incorporating multiple sets of eQTL weights into gene‐by‐environment interaction analysis identifies novel susceptibility loci for pancreatic cancer
Authors: Yang Tianzhong , Tang Hongwei , Risch Harvey A. , Olson Sarah H. , Peterson Gloria , Bracci Paige M. , Gallinger Steven , Hung Rayjean J. , Neale Rachel E. , Scelo Ghislaine , Duell Eric J. , Kurtz Robert C. , Khaw Kay‐Tee , Severi Gianluca , Sund Malin , Wareham Nick , Amos Christopher I. , Li Donghui , Wei Peng
Published: August 2020

It is of great scientific interest to identify interactions between genetic variants and environmental exposures that may modify the risk of complex diseases. However, larger sample sizes are usually required to detect gene‐by‐environment interaction (G × E) than required to detect genetic main association effects. To boost the statistical power and improve the understanding of the underlying molecular mechanisms, we incorporate functional genomics information, specifically, expression quantitative trait loci (eQTLs), into a data‐adaptive G × E test, called aGEw. This test adaptively chooses the best eQTL weights from multiple tissues and provides an extra layer of weighting at the genetic variant level. Extensive simulations show that the aGEw test can control the Type 1 error rate, and the power is resilient to the inclusion of neutral variants and noninformative external weights. We applied the proposed aGEw test to the Pancreatic Cancer Case–Control Consortium (discovery cohort of 3,585 cases and 3,482 controls) and the PanScan II genome‐wide association study data (replication cohort of 2,021 cases and 2,105 controls) with smoking as the exposure of interest. Two novel putative smoking‐related pancreatic cancer susceptibility genes, TRIP10 and KDM3A, were identified. The aGEw test is implemented in an R package aGE.
Developmental Programming of NAFLD by Parental Obesity
Authors: Thompson Michael D.
Published: August 2020

The surge of obesity across generations has become an increasingly relevant issue, with consequences for associated comorbidities in offspring. Data from longitudinal birth cohort studies support an association between maternal obesity and offspring nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), suggesting that perinatal obesity or obesogenic diet exposure reprograms offspring liver and increases NAFLD susceptibility. In preclinical models, offspring exposed to maternal obesogenic diet have increased hepatic steatosis after diet‐induced obesity; however, the implications for later NAFLD development and progression are still unclear. Although some models show increased NAFLD incidence and progression in offspring, development of nonalcoholic steatohepatitis with fibrosis may be model dependent. Multigenerational programming of NAFLD phenotypes occurs after maternal obesogenic diet exposure; however, the mechanisms for such programming remain poorly understood. Likewise, emerging data on the role of paternal obesity in offspring NAFLD development reveal incomplete mechanisms. This review will explore the impact of parental obesity and obesogenic diet exposure on offspring NAFLD and areas for further investigation, including the impact of parental diet on disease progression, and consider potential interventions in preclinical models.
Why are credit booms sometimes sweet and sometimes sour?
Authors: Castro Vítor , Martins Rodrigo
Published: August 2020

This paper investigates the commonalities and differences between benign credit booms and those that end up in banking crises by employing a Multinomial and a Sequential Logit model over a panel of industrial and developing countries. Some economic, political and institutional factors are found to play an important role in understanding the credit booms dynamics. In particular, this study shows that the quantity and price of credit, liquidity in the economy, economic growth, openness of the economy, government orientation, political stability and Central Bank independence are relevant to explain not only the occurrence of credit booms but also – and most importantly – whether they end up in a systemic banking crisis or not. While a better economic environment and Central Bank independence are essential for both industrial and developing countries to avoid credit booms from going badly, political factors seem to exert a stronger influence in developing countries.
Predicting GDP growth with stock and bond markets: Do they contain different information?
Authors: McMillan David G.
Published: August 2020

This paper examines the ability of bond and stock markets to predict subsequent GDP growth over a range of horizons for 12 international countries. The results, using linear, probit, time‐ and regime‐varying in‐sample regressions and out‐of‐sample forecasting, confirm the view that both financial markets exhibit predictive power for future output growth. Moreover, there is notable variation within the strength of the predictive relation, for example, predictive power increases during the financial crisis period. Results suggest that while the term structure arguably exhibits stronger predictive power, both series contain distinct predictive information. Notably, predictive power emanating from the stock return series appears stronger over shorter (up to four‐quarter) time horizons, while the term structure series exhibits more consistent predictive power over a range of horizons. Considering different regimes, we observe that the bond market exhibits greater predictive power for a flatter yield curve and lower stock prices relative to fundamentals, while the stock market exhibits greater predictive power for a steeper yield curve and higher relative stock prices. This suggests that the two financial markets exhibit different information content for future output growth. This view is further supported by forecast results whereby a model that includes both financial series outperforms a model that only includes one. Forecast encompassing tests further support the view that stock returns contain additional information over that presented by the term structure alone.
The effect of non‐performing loans on credit expansion: Do capital and profitability matter? Evidence from European banks
Authors: Thornton John , Di Tommaso Caterina
Published: August 2020

We examine whether the effect of NPLs on bank credit growth differs depending upon the level of bank capital and profitability in a panel of up to 521 banks from 28 European countries. Our main finding is that there is a significant positive interaction effect of NPLs and bank capital and NPLs and profitability on the supply of bank credit. Thus, whether NPLs impede the monetary policy transmission mechanism depends substantially on whether or not banks are sufficiently capitalized and profitable. Policy actions aimed at reducing NPLs to sustain bank credit should protect bank capital and profitability if they are to be effective, including by supporting efforts that aim at returning NPLs to good standing.
It takes two to tango: Fundamental timing in stock market
Authors: Tang Guohao , Jiang Fuwei , Qi Xinlin , Huang Nan
Published: August 2020

In this paper, we propose a fundamental timing strategy in both U.S. and Chinese stock markets to timing the fundamentals sorted portfolios such as value and profitability portfolios in the time‐series dimension. We find that fundamental timing strategies based on moving average (MA) timing signals could generate substantial performance gains relative to buy‐and‐hold strategies. The annualized average return of fundamental timing strategies reaches about 37% with Sharpe ratio nearly 1.30. These findings are robust to Fama–French factor model adjustment, alternative lag lengths of MA signals, holding days, and transaction costs. Moreover, the fundamental timing premium cannot be explained away by market timing or business cycle, and fundamental timing is more profitable among firms with high idiosyncratic volatility and high illiquidity.
Political environment and financial crises
Authors: Nguyen Thanh C. , Castro Vítor , Wood Justine
Published: August 2020

This paper assesses the role of the political environment in the timing of financial crises over a sample of 85 countries during the period 1975–2017. We consider systemic banking, currency and sovereign debt crises in addition to twin and triple crises. Using a fixed‐effects logit model, this study shows that banking and currency crises are more likely to occur within 1 year after elections. There is also evidence that the probability of currency crises increases when right‐wing parties are in office. Moreover, time in office of incumbent chief executives reduces the likelihood of any type of financial crises. The incidence of twin and triple crises is lower when majority governments are in office. This study contributes to the literature by calling attention to the importance of some political factors for different types of financial crises.