bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of Biochemical and Oxidative Stress Parameters in Hypo and Hyperthyroid Rat Models
Authors: Najafi Zohre , Zarban Asghar , Chamani Elham , Honarbakhsh Mahdi , Sharifzadeh Gholamreza
Published: August 2020

Background: Thyroid functional disorders are relatively common in the general population. Different factors play a role in the development of thyroid disorders. These factors can be associated with the deterioration of the oxidation state of the body and the induction of oxidative stress. Thyroid hormones play an important role in the oxidation state. Objectives: Regarding the role of oxidative stress in different pathologies and the development of various complications, including thyroid disorders, we aimed to compare the biochemical and oxidative stress parameters in hypo and hyperthyroid rat models. Methods: Twenty-one male Wistar rats were assigned into three groups of control, hypothyroid, and hyperthyroid. Hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism were inducted with PTU (propylthiouracil) and LTX (levothyroxine), respectively. After five weeks of induction, serum biochemical factors and oxidative stress parameters, such as TAC (total antioxidant capacity), MDA (Malondialdehyde), and the thiol group, were measured in these groups. Results: The means of TAC, MDA and UA (uric acid) in the hyperthyroid group were significantly higher than those in the hypothyroid group (P < 0.01, P < 0.01, P < 0.05) but the mean of thiol in the hypothyroid group was significantly higher than that of the hyperthyroid group (P < 0.01). Also, the mean of TAC level in the hypothyroid group was significantly lower than the control group (P < 0.05) and the mean of thiol group in the hypothyroid group was significantly higher than the control group (P < 0.05), but there was no other significant difference between the groups compared to the control group. Among the biochemical parameters, the mean LDH (lactate dehydrogenase) in the hyperthyroid group also showed a significant difference in comparison to the hypothyroid group (P < 0.05), but there was no significant difference between the groups in the mean of the other biochemical parameters. Conclusions: According to the results of this study, hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism are associated with a disturbance in the oxidation state of the body, and the use of antioxidants can help improve these diseases, especially in hyperthyroidism, due to enhanced metabolism and production of more free radicals.
Direct Action and the Climate Crisis
Authors: Kurtz Reed M. ,   Philosophy Documentation Center
Published: August 2020

How should we conceptualize direct action against climate change? Although direct action is an increasingly significant tactic by the global climate movement, we lack understanding how direct action contributes to the systemic change necessary for addressing the crisis. Drawing upon critical theories of climate change as a crisis in the social reproduction of the metabolic relations between humans and nature in capitalism, I conceptualize direct action as attempts to intervene directly in the organization of the social metabolism, towards reorganizing these relations in a more socially just and ecologically sustainable manner. My framework thus expands and clarifies the scope and potential of direct action as a means of confronting the capitalist climate crisis, as evidenced by Greta Thunberg’s school strike for climate.
Evidencias de validez y fiabilidad de la versión en español del Children’s Depression Inventory-Short en población peruana
Authors: Ventura-León José , Caycho-Rodríguez Tomás , Tocto-Muñoz Shirley , Torres-Maldonado Maryuri , Curahua-Guillén Karen
Published: August 2020

Evidence of validity and reliability of the Spanish version of the Children’s Depression Inventory-Short in Peruvian population Abstract: The objective of this study was to examine the validity evidence of the Children’s Depression Inventory-Short (CDI-S; Kovacs, 1992), in Peruvian school children. A total of 1059 children between 7 and 12 years old participated (Mean = 9.73, SD = 1.23). The results revealed the existence of two factors related to strong loads in the exploratory factor analysis, which were corroborated by confirmatory factor analysis with good goodness-of-fit indices (CFI ≥ .97, RMSEA ≤ .04). The reliability of the CDI-S, calculated with the internal consistency method, was good in both factors (ω > .80). We conclude that the CDI-S is a valid and reliable measure in Peruvian children and should be interpreted as a test with two factors (Dysphoria and Negative self-esteem), which is consistent with previous empirical and theoretical studies. Keywords: Validation; reliability; depression; children. Resumen: El presente estudio tuvo como objetivo examinar evidencias de validez y fiabilidad de la versión en español del Children’s Depression Inventory-Short (CDI-S, Kovacs, 1992), en población peruana. Participaron 1059 niños y niñas entre 7 y 12 años (Media = 9.73, DT = 1.23). Los resultados revelaron la existencia de dos factores relacionados con cargas fuertes enel análisis factorial exploratorio, los cuales fueron corroborados mediante el análisis factorial confirmatorio con buenos índices de bondad de ajuste (CFI ≥ .97, RMSEA ≤ .04). La fiabilidad del CDI-S, calculada con el método de consistencia interna, fue buena en los dos factores (ω > .80). Se concluye que el CDI-S es una medida valida y fiable en niños peruanos y debe ser interpretada como una prueba con dos factores (Disforia y Autoestima negativa), lo cual es coherente con estudios empíricos y teóricos previos. Palabras clave: Validación; fiabilidad; depresión; niños.
Linking Theory to Practice: Predicting Ballistic Performance from
Mechanical Properties of Aged Body Armor
Authors: Forster Amanda L. , Leber Dennis D. , Engelbrecht-Wiggans Amy , Landais Virginie , Chang Allen , Guigues Emilien , Messin Guillaume , Riley Michael A.
Published: August 2020

It has long been a goal of the body armor testing community to establish an individualized, scientific-based protocol for predicting the ballistic performance end of life for fielded body armor. A major obstacle in achieving this goal is the test methods used to ascertain ballistic performance, which are destructive in nature and require large sample sizes. In this work, using both the Cunniff and Phoenix-Porwal models, we derived two separate but similar theoretical relationships between the observed degradation in mechanical properties of aged body armor and its decreased ballistic performance. We present two studies used to validate the derived functions. The first correlates the degradation in mechanical properties of fielded body armor to the degradation produced by a laboratory accelerated-aging protocol. The second examines the ballistic resistance and the extracted-yarn mechanical properties of new and laboratory-aged body armor made from poly(p-phenylene-2,6-benzobisoxazole), or PBO, and poly(p-phenylene terephthalamide), or PPTA. We present correlations found between the tensile strengths of yarns extracted from armor and the ballistic limit (V50) when significant degradation of the mechanical properties of the extracted yarns was observed. These studies provided the basis for a validation data set in which we compared the experimentally measured V50 ballistic limit results to the theoretically predicted V50 results. The theoretical estimates were generally shown to provide a conservative prediction of the ballistic performance of the armor. This approach is promising for the development of a tool for fielded armor performance surveillance relying upon mechanical testing of armor coupon samples.
Local Initiatives In Preventing Coronavirus Based On Health Policy Perceptive
Authors: Ayuningtyas Dumilah , Misnaniarti Misnaniarti , Parinduri Siti Khodijah , Susanti Fitria Aryani , Sutrisnawati Ni Nyoman Dwi , Munawaroh Sayyidatul
Published: August 2020

Abstract. World Health Organization (WHO) has declared Coronavirus 2019-2020 as a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC). Local transmission of this disease occurs in almost every country around the world. Likewise, in Indonesia, Covid-19 cases have spread to all 34 provinces. This study aims to analyze the local initiative in handling Covid-19 based on the public health perspective in Indonesia. It is based on time, the form of activity, the type of response, and the contribution of local initiatives. This study used secondary data from various media sources and articles on the Covid-19 pandemic in Indonesia and community assistance as the keywords. The study used 31 news found in media sources from 34 provinces in Indonesia. Handling Covid-19 has become a concern for the government and the public. The government is implementing physical distancing as a way to handle Coronavirus. For the local community, it is in the form of local initiatives by educating the community, fulfilling PPE, supporting infrastructure facilities, crowdfunding carried out personally or in groups, and doing prevention by wearing masks and doing self-quarantine. Various elements of society have played a role and participated in the movement to eradicate the Coronavirus. Cross-sectoral coordination needs to be intensified for the implementation of comprehensive efforts.
Polyploidy in the adult Drosophila brain
Authors: Nandakumar Shyama , Grushko Olga , Buttitta Laura A
Published: August 2020

Long-lived cells such as terminally differentiated postmitotic neurons and glia must cope with the accumulation of damage over the course of an animal’s lifespan. How long-lived cells deal with ageing-related damage is poorly understood. Here we show that polyploid cells accumulate in the adult fly brain and that polyploidy protects against DNA damage-induced cell death. Multiple types of neurons and glia that are diploid at eclosion, become polyploid in the adultDrosophilabrain. The optic lobes exhibit the highest levels of polyploidy, associated with an elevated DNA damage response in this brain region. Inducing oxidative stress or exogenous DNA damage leads to an earlier onset of polyploidy, and polyploid cells in the adult brain are more resistant to DNA damage-induced cell death than diploid cells. Our results suggest polyploidy may serve a protective role for neurons and glia in adultDrosophila melanogasterbrains.
Long-term potentiation is independent of the C-tail of the GluA1 AMPA receptor subunit
Authors: Díaz-Alonso Javier , Morishita Wade , Incontro Salvatore , Simms Jeffrey , Holtzman Julia , Gill Michael , Mucke Lennart , Malenka Robert C , Nicoll Roger A
Published: August 2020

We tested the proposal that the C-terminal domain (CTD) of the AMPAR subunit GluA1 is required for LTP. We found that a knock-in mouse lacking the CTD of GluA1 expresses normal LTP and spatial memory, assayed by the Morris water maze. Our results support a model in which LTP generates synaptic slots, which capture passively diffusing AMPARs.
Root architecture, rooting profiles and physiological responses of potential slope plants grown on acidic soil
Authors: Dorairaj Deivaseeno , Suradi Muhammad Fahmi , Mansor Nursyamimi Syafiqah , Osman Normaniza
Published: August 2020

Globally, there has been an increase in the frequency of landslides which is the result of slope failures. The combination of high intensity rainfall and high temperature resulted in the formation of acidic soil which is detrimental to the healthy growth of plants. Proper plant coverage on slopes is a prerequisite to mitigate and rehabilitate the soil. However, not all plant species are able to grow in marginal land. Thus, this study was undertaken to find a suitable slope plant species. We aimed to evaluate the effect of different soil pH on root profiles and growth of three different potential slope plant species namely, Melastoma malabathricum, Hibiscus rosa-sinensis and Syzygium campanulatum. M. malabathricum showed the highest tolerance to acidic soil as it recorded the highest plant height and photosynthetic rate. The root systems of M. malabathricum, H. rosa-sinensis and S. campanulatum were identified as M, VH- and R-types, respectively. The study proposed M. malabathricum which possessed dense and shallow roots to be planted at the toe or top of the slope while H. rosa-sinensis and S. campanulatum to be planted in the middle of a slope. S. campanulatum consistently recorded high root length and root length density across all three types of soil pH while M. malabathricum showed progressive increase in length as the soil pH increased. The root average diameter and root volume of M. malabathricum outperformed the other two plant species irrespective of soil pH. In terms of biomass, M. malabathricum exhibited the highest root and shoot dry weights followed by S. campanulatum. Thus, we propose M. malabathricum to be planted on slopes as a form of soil rehabilitation. The plant species displayed denser rooting, hence a stronger root anchorage that can hold the soil particles together which will be beneficial for slope stabilization.
Reliability and validity of the physical activity monitor for assessing energy expenditures in sedentary, regularly exercising, non-endurance athlete, and endurance athlete adults
Authors: Chang Chun-Hao , Hsu Yi-Ju , Li Fang , Tu Yu-Tsai , Jhang Wei-Lun , Hsu Chih-Wen , Huang Chi-Chang , Ho Chin-Shan
Published: August 2020

Background

Inertial sensors, such as accelerometers, serve as convenient devices to predict the energy expenditures (EEs) during physical activities by a predictive equation. Although the accuracy of estimate EEs especially matter to athletes receive physical training, most EE predictive equations adopted in accelerometers are based on the general population, not athletes. This study included the heart rate reserve (HRR) as a compensatory parameter for physical intensity and derived new equations customized for sedentary, regularly exercising, non-endurance athlete, and endurance athlete adults.

Methods

With indirect calorimetry as the criterion measure (CM), the EEs of participants on a treadmill were measured, and vector magnitudes (VM), as well as HRR, were simultaneously recorded by a waist-worn accelerometer with a heart rate monitor. Participants comprised a sedentary group (SG), an exercise-habit group (EHG), a non-endurance group (NEG), and an endurance group (EG), with 30 adults in each group.

Results

EE predictive equations were revised using linear regression with cross-validation on VM, HRR, and body mass (BM). The modified model demonstrates valid and reliable predictions across four populations (Pearson correlation coefficient, r: 0.922 to 0.932; intraclass correlation coefficient, ICC: 0.919 to 0.930).

Conclusion

Using accelerometers with a heart rate monitorcan accurately predict EEs of athletes and non-athletes with an optimized predictive equation integrating the VM, HRR, and BM parameters.
Evaluation of wet and dry event’s trend and instability based on the meteorological drought index
Authors: Shaukat Muhammad Haroon , Al-Dousari Ahmad , Hussain Ijaz , Faisal Muhammad , Ismail Muhammad , Mohamd Shoukry Alaa , Elashkar Elsayed Elsherbini , Gani Showkat
Published: August 2020

A temporal imbalance in the water availability, which is consistently below average or more than average rainfall, can lead to extremely dry or wet conditions. This impacts on agricultural yields, water resources and human activities. Weather instabilities and trends of wet/dry events have not yet been explored in Pakistan. In this study, we have two-fold objectives: (1) evaluate the weather instabilities, and (2) the trend of dry/wet events of selected stations of Pakistan. To observe weather instabilities, we used Mean Marginal Hilbert Spectrum (MMHS) and Continuous Wavelet Power Spectrum (CWPS) as meteorological series are mostly non-linear and non-stationary. We used Ensemble Empirical Mode Decomposition (EEMD) for the analysis of temporal characteristics of dry/wet events. We found that all stations are facing severe weather instabilities during the short period of 5 and 10 months using MMHS method and CWPS has shown the weather instabilities during 4 to 32 months of periodicity for all stations. Ultimately, the achieved short-term weather instabilities indicated by MMHS is consistent with CWPS. In summary, these findings might be useful for water resource management and policymakers.
Assessment of Proximate, Phytochemical and Selected Mineral Content of Acanthus montanus Leaf
Authors: Añuli Nwachukwu, Augusta , Ekwutosi Ogbulie, Toochukwu , Udodi Nwachukwu, Chibuike , Ijeoma Evans-Kemka, Catherine , Chisom Onyekachi, Vivian
Published: August 2020

Acanthus montanus (Nees) T. Anders belongs to the family Acanthaceae and is one of the most threatened and underutilized species of vegetables in Africa. However the leaves of this plant are part of a consortium infusion (agabada nkwu) given to post-natal mothers within and around Mbaise in Imo State, South Eastern Nigeria, to ensure health and vitality of both nursing mother and child. The proximate, phytochemical and selected mineral contents of the Acanthus montanus leaf were investigated to ascertain the various components. The fresh plant sample was obtained from Ife, Ezinihitte Mbaise Local Government Area of Imo state, Nigeria. The sample was air-dried at room temperature for 72 hours prior to the various analyses, which were done using standard methods. The results of the phytochemical analysis showed 1.60 % flavonoids, 6.67 % tannins, 5.60  % alkaloids, 6.45 % saponins, 0.26 % phytate, 5.41% oxalate, 0.49 % phenol and 0.019 % Hydrogen Cyanide (HCN). The percentage proximate evaluation for moisture content, carbohydrate, protein, fibre, ash content and fat were: 11.85, 37.86, 17.72, 16.70, 10.56 and 5.31 respectively, while the percentage quantities of selected minerals; iron, magnesium, potassium, calcium, phosphorus, sodium, manganese, zinc and copper were: 0.014, 0.569, 3.152, 0.909, 0.089, 0.202, 0.009, 0.010 and 0.001 respectively. Acanthus montanus is reported for its nutritional and medicinal values throughout Africa. The result of this work suggests further exploitation of the parts of Acanthus montanus to unveil more of its potential uses for the treatment of diseases.
Assessment of the Hepatoprotective Activity of Ethanol Seed Extract of Garcinia kola on Carbon Tetrachloride (CCl4)-Induced Liver Toxicity in Albino Rat Models
Authors: Ayuba R. B. , Enemali M. O. , Mairiga J. P. , Haruna G. S. , Ani O. N.
Published: August 2020

Aims: To assess the effect of G. kola ethanol seed extract on CCl4-induced liver toxicity in albino rats. The qualitative and quantitative phytochemical analysis of the extract was carried out.

Study Design: Randomized block design.

Place and Duration of Study: Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Laboratory of Nasarawa State University, Keffi, Nasarawa State, Nigeria between January and August, 2019.

Methodology: Thirty male albino rats were randomly distributed into six groups of five rats each. Group 1, normal control, Group 2, standard control, groups 3–6, test groups all administered for seven days. Blood samples were collected for biochemical analysis and liver harvested for histology.

Results: Results of phytochemical analysis showed the presence of alkaloids; 1.260±0.00 mg/dl, tannins; 920±0.00 mg/dl, flavonoids; 2.045±0.00 mg/dl, Carbohydrates; 2.00±0.00 mg/dl, Steroids; 0.012±0.00 mg/dl and Cardiac glycosides; 1.25±0.00 mg/dl, saponins, terpenes and anthroquinones were absent. AST in groups 3, 4 and 5 were significantly (p < 0.05) higher when compared to control. ALT was significantly (p < 0.05) higher in all the treatment groups (4, 5, 6) compared to the control groups (1 and 2). ALP activity increased significantly (p < 0.05) in all the test groups compared to the normal control. Total bilirubin increased significantly (p < 0.05) in all the treatment groups compared to the controls. Direct Bilirubin was significantly (p < 0.05) higher in the treatment groups (5, 6) compared to the normal control. GSH decreased significantly (p < 0.05) in all treatment groups compared to the control. CAT and SOD showed no significant (p > 0.05) difference in the treatment groups when compared to the control groups. Photomicrographs of the liver showed ballooning degeneration with complete loss of nuclear material.

Conclusion: The administered doses in this study did not protect against CCl4 induced liver toxicity in albino rats.
Automated Duck Egg Classifier with Web-Based Monitoring System
Authors: Ongrea Jomelyn L. , Allawan Nikka E. , Sobejana Noel P.
Published: August 2020

The main objectives of the research were to develop a module that classify fertilized/unfertilized duck eggs according to its classification using Light Dependent Resistor during candling process of the duck eggs, a project that segregate the duck eggs to its designated classification area using servo motor, to develop a webpage that displays the number of classified duck eggs in a tabular and graphical presentation using Windows Form and to capture the level of effectiveness of the Automated Duck Egg Classifier with Web-Based Monitoring System in terms of functionality, reliability, usability, efficiency, maintainability and portability. Recipient-beneficiary of the project is the balut producer's industry. The method that was used by the project-developers was waterfall approach as a process model for the system. The project-developers used Visual Studio 2012 as front-end and Text File as back end of the system. Asp.Net will be used for designing the user's interface. Using these applications, the project team created a Web-Based Application that displays the number of classified duck eggs which could be presented in a tabular and graphed. Therefore, the study intended to help the balut producer’s industry. Project developers developed an Automated Duck Egg Classifier with Web-Based Monitoring System that able to solve the aforesaid problems of the producers. The common problem encountered by the said industry is the manual process in classifying duck eggs. After the project was tested, the developers concluded that the project finally resolved the traditional problems of classifying duck eggs as the balut expert stated.
Study and Analytical Modeling of the Influence of Technological and Geometric Parameters on the Performance of Ga0:67In0:33P=GaAs=Ga0:70In0:30As Tri-junction Photovoltaic Solar Cells
Authors: Ndorere N. , Kounouhewa B. , Agbomahena M.B.
Published: August 2020

In the context of global energy consumption, the production of photovoltaic solar energy remains very low. One solution to this problem is to use multi-junction solar cells with high efficiency. Efforts are being made to increase the efficiency of solar cells and reduce their cost of production. In order to optimize the performance of multi-junction solar cells, this paper presents an analytical model allowing to study and model the influence of technological and geometric parameters on the performance of tri-junction solar cells Ga0:67In0:33P=GaAs=Ga0:70In0:30As. These parameters are the thickness, doping and Gap energy of the three sub-cells making up the tri-junction solar structure. The thicknesses and doping of the emitters (bases) of the sub-cells are varied and chosen in order to optimize the efficiency of the Trijunction Solar Cell (TJSC) Ga0:67In0:33P=GaAs=Ga0:70In0:30As. The one hand, the base doping (emitter) is selected so as to minimize the dark current and the other hand,to reduce the resistive losses in this region. As for the thickness, it is chosen so as to minimize the recombination phenomena. The simulation results show that for a given thickness, the sub-cell efficiencies have maximums which evolve with the increase in doping. If the doping of the base (or emitter) of the sub-cells increases, there follows a proportional increase in the efficiency. In addition, when the optimal doping and thickness of the bases (or emitters) are reached, above these, they can vary over a wide range without considerably modifying the efficiency of the solar cell. This point about the tolerance ranges is very important for the practical realization of Photovoltaic solar cell structures. These results also show that the optimal performance of the Tri-junction Solar Cell are obtained for the relatively low thicknesses of the bases (or emitters) (100nm-700nm) with high doping values(Nb = 8e + 18cm
Body Mass Index and Clinical Outcomes in Egyptian Women with Breast Cancer: A Multi-institutional Study
Authors: Shaaban Amrou Mamdouh Abdeen , Aziz Ahmed Hassan Abd , Sholkamy Nada , Mokhtar Hoda , Emam Shimaa Anwer , Anter Abeer Hussien
Published: August 2020

Purpose: The aim of this work was to evaluate the association between body mass index (BMI) and clinical outcomes among Egyptian female breast cancer patients.

Methods: We reviewed the file registry of 629 patients with operable breast cancer regarding age, sex, height, weight, menopausal status, family history of breast cancer, tumor features, TNM arrangement and treatment during the period from January 2006 to December 2012. In our studies, obesity was deﬁned as a BMI of ≥30 kg/m2. The primary objective was to estimate the effect of body mass index on the clinical outcomes of breast cancer patients including DFS and OAS.

Results: A total of 629 patients with a mean age of 51.1 years. Stage III and Stage II presented 52% and 46.6% respectively. Overweight and obese patients represent 60.5% of all patient population. There was no association between tumor stage, grade or menopausal status and BMI. Patients with normal BMI showed a median survival of 95.3 months [CI: 54.6,136.06]. This was significantly higher than overweight and obese patients (p = 0.001). Nearly one-third of patients (29.1%) with normal BMI experienced disease relapse compared to 32.8% for overweight and obese patients, however, this was statistically not significant (0.097).

Conclusion: According to the results of this retrospective study, increased BMI may be associated with less favorable prognosis of breast cancer patients.
Microstructural Characterization of Particulate Matter from Gasoline-Fuelled Vehicle Emissions
Authors: Güney Bekir , Aladağ Ali
Published: August 2020

Exhaust emissions from vehicle traffic refers to the particles released into the air due to combustion of fuels, additives and wear of engine parts in the system during vehicle use. These emissions occur depending on the type of vehicle, type of fuel, combustion process and environmental conditions. In this study, microstructure and chemical characterization of particulate matter (PM) released from gasoline-fuelled vehicles were examined using electron microscopy techniques. As a result, much solid soot, metalloids, heavy metals, ash, sulphates, phosphates, minerals, volatile organic and inorganic pollutants were found to be present in gasoline exhaust emission. These toxic structures still pose a danger to environmental safety and human health.

Aim: In study, microstructure characterization of emissions released from gasoline-fuelled vehicles exhaust were investigated using electron microscopy techniques. Study design: SEM, EDS, XRD and FTIR electron microscopy techniques were used for characterization.

Place and Duration of Study: Material Characterization Laboratory of Karamanoğlu Mehmetbey University, Scientific and Technological Research Application and Research Center, between Junuary 2020 and July 2020.

Results: The vehicles still continue to spread toxic pollutants.

Conclusions: The chemical structure of PM contains 20 elements including C, F, N, Na, O, Mg, Br, Si, Hg, S, P, Pb, Ca, Cr, Mn, Fe, Ni, Co, Cu, Zn. There are pollutant functional groups such as OH, CO, SO in the structure. Hydrocarbons, metalloids, heavy metals, different minerals, phosphates, sulfates, many volatile organic and inorganic compounds pollute the air in PM structure. These toxic pollutants harm the environment and human health.
Acrylamide Toxicity and Mitigation Strategies: A Summary of Recent Reports
Authors: Rajeh Nisreen Abdullah
Published: August 2020

Acrylamide is a potential carcinogen, with proven neurotoxicity and genotoxicity. In the current scenario, neurotoxicity and reproductive toxicity of acrylamide have not been conclusively established for humans; however, the same has been established in laboratory animal species. In this review, we summarize the factors dictating the exposure of acrylamide to humans and subsequently caused toxicity to humans. Further, we review the neurotoxic and genotoxic effects of acrylamide on animal models, with a particular emphasis on reproductive toxicity. We also talk about various strategies such as physical, chemical, and biological approaches, employed for acrylamide. Overall, we discuss that consumption of acrylamide through food products has toxic effects on the endocrine system, and it is deleterious for human health. A novel aspect of this review is that we provide a molecular mechanism of action in conjunction with clinical data on acrylamide toxicity along with relevant examples. This review also highlights the requirement of further research on the consequences of acrylamide toxicity, molecular modes of action, and the overall impact on the human body.
Burden of Helicobacter pylori Infections and Associated Risk Factors among Cases of Iron Deficiency Anaemia in Egypt
Authors: Kady Hadir M. El- , Kahiry Waiel Al- , Abdelsalam Hadeel Said Tawfik
Published: August 2020

Introduction: Iron deficiency anaemia (IDA) is a worldwide nutritional problem; it accounts for about half of the world’s anaemia burden. Globally, Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) is becoming an increasingly troublesome economic and public health problem. The colonization of the organism in gastric mucosa may impair iron uptake and increase iron loss, potentially leading to iron deficiency anaemia. The mechanisms by which H. pylori is postulated to cause IDA are H. pylori -associated chronic gastritis resulting in hypo/or achlorhydria, reduced ascorbic acid secretion and reduced intestinal iron absorption, occult blood loss due to chronic erosive gastritis, and sequestration and utilization of iron by Helicobacter pylori.

Aims: To detect H. pylori–related IDA prevalence among asymptomatic cases of anaemia and to address the possibility that such infection may play a detrimental role in their blood picture, serum iron and ferritin levels and total iron binding capacity (TIBC)

Study Design & Methods: Facility based cross-sectional study was conducted in the period from December 2018 to May 2019. Screening was done for asymptomatic attendants of a   number of private laboratories in Beheira, Alexandria and Gharbiya governorates. Three hundreds of whom were proved to be cases of IDA and were further tested for H. pylori antigen in stool.

Results: Helicobacter pylori Ag test in stool was positive in 180 out of 300 cases of iron deficiency anaemia. The infection significantly affected the haemoglobin level, MCV, MCH and RDW in studied cases (p<0.05). Infection with H. pylori also significantly affected the serum iron, serum ferritin and TIBC in the studied cases of IDA (p<0.05).

Conclusion: A significant association between H. pylori infection and IDA. Screening for H. pylori among unexplained cases of IDA is recommended.
Curriculum Assessment of Higher Educational Institution Using Trace-segmented Clustering
Authors: Priyambada Satrio Adi , ER Mahendrawathi , Yahya Bernardo Nugroho
Published: August 2020

Curriculum mining is research area that assess students’ learning behavior and compare it with the curriculum guideline. Previous work developed sequence matching alignment approach to check the conformance between students’ learning behavior and curriculum guideline. Considering only the sequence matching alignment is insufficient to understand the patterns of group of students. Another work proposed an approach by aggregating the students’ profile to represent students’ learning behavior and investigate the impact of the learning behavior to their learning performance. However, the aggregate profile approach considers the entire period of study rather than segmented period. This study proposes a methodology to assess students’ learning path with segmented period i.e. the semester of the related curriculum. The segmented-period profile generated would be the input for sequence matching alignment approach to assess the conformity of students’ behavior with the prior curriculum guideline. Real curriculum data has been used to test the effectivity of the methodology. The results show that the students can be grouped into various cluster per semesters that have different characteristic with respect to their learning behavior and performance. The results can be analyzed further to improve the curriculum guideline.
Uncapacitated Pricing Optimization for Mobile Broadband Services
Authors: Pratikto Fransiscus Rian
Published: August 2020

The success of revenue management starting in the mid-1980s has been driving pricing decision to be more tactical and operational. Since then, statistics and operations research have been important tools in pricing and revenue optimization. This research seeks to determine optimal price for mobile broadband services of a particular service provider. The case study is mobile broadband services in Indonesian market. We made a plausible assumption that there is no capacity constraint. We used choice-based conjoint with hierarchical Bayes estimation method to derive individual part-worth utilities, based on which market simulation was run to obtain the price-response function. By combining this with information about market size, we came up with a number of data points representing the demand function. Instead of fitting the data points with some theoretical demand functions, we used monotonic cubic splines to interpolate the demand function. Accordingly, we did not use explicit demand functions in the optimization, but a numerical interpolation function to estimate demand for any particular price level. Using enumeration, we then came up with a recommended contribution-maximizing prices under one, two, and three fare-classes segmentation. We assumed a perfect segmentation where cannibalization and arbitrage were not present. Further, we discussed a generalized optimal segmentation problem under that assumption. We also investigated the impact of the changes in competitors’ service attributes on the optimal prices.
Multi-items Batch Scheduling Model for a Batch Processor to Minimize Total Actual Flow Time of Parts through the Shop
Authors: Hidayat Nita P.A , Cakravastia Andi , Samadhi T.M.A Ari , Halim Abdul Hakim
Published: August 2020

This study is inspired by a batch scheduling problem in metal working industry which guarantees to satisfy a due date as a commitment to customers. Actual flowtime adopts the backward scheduling approach and considers the due date. Using the actual flowtime as the objective means that the solution  is oriented to satisfy the due date, and simultaneosly to minimize the length of time of the parts spending in the shop. This research is to address a problem of scheduling batches consisting of multiple items of parts processed on a batch processor where the completed parts must be delivered several time at different due dates. We propose an algorithm to solve the problem.
Test of the analysis of competing hypotheses in legal decision‐making
Authors: Maegherman Enide , Ask Karl , Horselenberg Robert , van Koppen Peter J.
Published: August 2020

The analysis of competing hypotheses (ACH) has been suggested to be a method that can protect against confirmation bias in the context of intelligence analysis. In the current study, we aimed to determine whether ACH could counter confirmation bias in the reasoning with evidence in the context of criminal law proceedings. Law students (N = 191) received information about the ACH method or general information about biases. They were given a case vignette with a main suspect and a list of 24 questions, 6 of which they could ask about the case. Half of the questions related to incriminating information, whereas the other half related to exonerating information. Contrary to our expectations, participants in both conditions favoured questions relating to exonerating information and rated the exonerating evidence as being more important for their decision. Despite the lack of bias observed, it seems participants failed to properly apply the ACH method.
Smart Acid‐Activatable Self‐Assembly of Black Phosphorous as Photosensitizer to Overcome Poor Tumor Retention in Photothermal Therapy
Authors: Wang Yingwei , Xie Jianlei , Kang Jianlong , Choi Wonseok , Jangili Paramesh , Zhang Bin , Xie Ni , Nie Guohui , He Jun , Zhang Han , Liu Liping , Kim Jong Seung
Published: August 2020

Nanomaterials‐based photothermal therapy (PTT) could efficiently eliminate cancer cells in a noninvasive manner. However, nanoscale photosensitizers still suffer from several drawbacks, limiting them from being an ideal PTT approach against cancer. These include unfavorable biodistribution and poor retention in tumor tissue. In this study, acid‐activatable smart self‐assembly of black phosphorous (BP) and polyoxometalates (POM) is carried out to yield POM@BP with prolonged tumor retention and enhanced efficacy of PTT. The as‐rationally designed POM@BP photosensitizers in acidic tumor microenvironments self‐assemble into nanoparticles with larger sizes, remarkably increasing the light absorption ability of BP nanosheets in PTT of cancer. The as‐obtained POM@BP endows prolonged retention and enhances the photothermal response in tumor tissue by smart self‐assembly of BP into larger nanoparticles. In summary, the proposed potent approach for the rational design and tailor photosensitizer for cancer treatment looks very promising for future scientific breakthroughs in nanomedicine.
Biomimetic Trachea Regeneration Using a Modular Ring Strategy Based on Poly(Sebacoyl Diglyceride)/Polycaprolactone for Segmental Trachea Defect Repair
Authors: Xu Yong , Guo Yifan , Li Yaqiang , Huo Yingying , She Yunlang , Li Hao , Jia Zihao , Jiang Gening , Zhou Guangdong , You Zhengwei , Duan Liang
Published: August 2020

The lack of a biomimetic tracheal substitute featured with cartilage ring/vascularized connective tissue alternate structure (CVCAS) has significantly retarded a clinical breakthrough of tissue‐engineered trachea in repairing extensive tracheal lesions. Herein, a novel modular strategy based on cartilage rings and biomaterial rings is used to generate a biomimetic trachea with CVCAS. Poly(sebacoyl diglyceride) and polycaprolactone (PCL) (PSeD/PCL) are blended to fabricate a porous scaffold with satisfactory mechanical properties, biodegradability, and biocompatibility. A cartilage ring is engineered in vitro using ring‐shaped PSeD/PCL scaffold loaded with chondrocytes and cartilage tube is generated in vivo through the fusion of multiple modular cartilage rings. More importantly, biomimetic tracheas with CVCAS are successfully fabricated in vivo through alternately stacked cartilage rings and PSeD/PCL rings on a silicon tube. Notably, the engineered biomimetic trachea exhibits not only a bionic structure but also superior mechanical properties compared with the native rabbit trachea. Finally, segmental tracheal defects in rabbits are repaired by transplanting the biomimetic trachea with pedicled muscular flaps. The biomimetic trachea establishes stable blood supply and provided sufficient mechanical strength and biological function similar to those of native trachea. This work represents the first successful regeneration of biomimetic trachea with CVCAS and a promising approach for clinical application.
Bioinspired Interface Design of Sewable, Weavable, and Washable Fiber Zinc Batteries for Wearable Power Textiles
Authors: Wang Changfeng , He Tao , Cheng Jianli , Guan Qun , Wang Bin
Published: August 2020

Wearable electronics have great demands for flexibility, high‐performance, and customized batteries that require the significant advancement of renewable and weavable power fiber design. Here, weavable, sewable, and washable aqueous zinc batteries (AZBs)‐based power fibers are developed by the synergistic interfacial design of the quinone‐rich polydopamine as organic redox‐active cathodes and nano‐binders on the carbon substrate simultaneously. By the removal of soluble monomers or oligomers and the boosted ratios of the quinone groups, the polydopamine polymers as organic redox‐active cathodes in AZBs deliver large specific capacity (372.3 mA h g−1 at 50 mA g−1), excellent toughness, and long‐term cyclic durability (80% retention over 1700 cycles at 1000 mA g−1). Moreover, the power textiles with custom‐tailored patterns can be prepared by the direct use of the fiber electrodes as the threads for a sewing and loom machine. The sewn or woven power textiles display stable electrochemical performances that can power various electronic devices under different bending conditions, even after washing for 3 h. This work provides great potential for large‐scale production of AZBs with high‐performance for next‐generation wearable energy‐storage devices.
Molecular Engineering to Access Fluorescent Trackers of Organelles by Cyclization: Chemical Environment of Nitrogen Atom‐Modulated Targets
Authors: Ma Weixin , Zhang Luoqiang , Shi Yang , Ran You , Liu Yang , You Jingsong
Published: August 2020

In the application of new fluorescent bioimaging reagents, typically, one synthetic method yields one type of organelle tracker. Herein, a molecular engineering approach to access fluorescent trackers of multiple organelles via a powerful synthetic toolbox is described. Starting from easily available acridone and analogues, a one‐pot strategy is set up for the synthesis of structurally diversified heteroatom‐doped polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs, types I–V) through the rhodium‐catalyzed oxidative [4 + 2] cyclization of C = X (X = N, O, S) bonds with alkynes, which assembles both ionic and neutral fluorescent frameworks. The tetracyclic acridine‐type luminogens (I–IV) are capable of targeting multiple organelles, including lysosome, endoplasmic reticulum, mitochondria, and mitochondria‐nucleus, in which the chemical environments of the nitrogen atom modulate the targeting regions. The fluorescent organelle trackers developed herein possess unique features. The formally protonated type I molecules are suitable for the long‐term detection of the lysosomes (>24 h). The type IV molecules exhibit the photo‐induced transfer from mitochondria to nucleus targeting, which indicates that IV can be used as an effective tool for real‐time research on physiological processes related to cell trafficking.
Enhancing the Injectability of High Concentration Drug Formulations Using Core Annular Flows
Authors: Jayaprakash Vishnu , Costalonga Maxime , Dhulipala Somayajulu , Varanasi Kripa K.
Published: August 2020

Highly concentrated biological drug formulations would offer tremendous benefits to global health, yet they cannot be manually injected using commercial syringes and needles due to their high viscosities. Current approaches to address this problem face several challenges such as crosscontamination, high cost, needle clogging, and protein inactivation. This work reports a simple method to enhance formulation injectability using a core annular flow, where the transport of highly viscous fluids through a needle is enabled by coaxial lubrication by a less viscous fluid. A phase diagram to ensure optimally lubricated flow while minimizing the volume fraction of lubricant injected is established. The technique presented here allows for up to a 7x reduction in injection force for the highest viscosity ratio tested. The role of buoyancy‐driven eccentricity in governing nominal pressure reduction is also examined. Finally, the findings are implemented into the development of a double barreled syringe that significantly expands the range of injectable concentrations of several biologic formulations.
Elucidating the Opportunities and Challenges for Nanocellulose Spinning
Authors: Rosén Tomas , Hsiao Benjamin S. , Söderberg L. Daniel
Published: August 2020

Man‐made continuous fibers play an essential role in society today. With the increase in global sustainability challenges, there is a broad spectrum of societal needs where the development of advanced biobased fibers could provide means to address the challenges. Biobased regenerated fibers, produced from dissolved cellulose are widely used today for clothes, upholstery, and linens. With new developments in the area of advanced biobased fibers, it would be possible to compete with high‐performance synthetic fibers such as glass fibers and carbon fibers as well as to provide unique functionalities. One possible development is to fabricate fibers by spinning filaments from nanocellulose, Nature's nanoscale high‐performance building block, which will require detailed insights into nanoscale assembly mechanisms during spinning, as well as knowledge regarding possible functionalization. If successful, this could result in a new class of man‐made biobased fibers. This work aims to identify the progress made in the field of spinning of nanocellulose filaments, as well as outline necessary steps for efficient fabrication of such nanocellulose‐based filaments with controlled and predictable properties.
Superior Carrier Lifetimes Exceeding 6 µs in Polycrystalline Halide Perovskites
Authors: Yang Xiaoyu , Fu Yunqi , Su Rui , Zheng Yifan , Zhang Yuzhuo , Yang Wenqiang , Yu Maotao , Chen Peng , Wang Yanju , Wu Jiang , Luo Deying , Tu Yongguang , Zhao Lichen , Gong Qihuang , Zhu Rui
Published: August 2020

Lead halide perovskite films have witnessed rapid progress in optoelectronic devices, whereas polycrystalline heterogeneities and serious native defects in films are still responsible for undesired recombination pathways, causing insufficient utilization of photon‐generated charge carriers. Here, radiation‐enhanced polycrystalline perovskite films with ultralong carrier lifetimes exceeding 6 μs and single‐crystal‐like electron–hole diffusion lengths of more than 5 μm are achieved. Prolongation of charge‐carrier activities is attributed to the electronic structure regulation and the defect elimination at crystal boundaries in the perovskite with the introduction of phenylmethylammonium iodide. The introduced electron‐rich anchor molecules around the host crystals prefer to fill the halide/organic vacancies at the boundaries, rather than form low‐dimensional phases or be inserted into the original lattice. The weakening of the electron‐phonon coupling and the excitonic features of the photogenerated carriers in the optimized films, which together contribute to the enhancement of carrier separation and transportation, are further confirmed. Finally the resultant perovskite films in fully operating solar cells with champion efficiency of 23.32% are validated and a minimum voltage deficit of 0.39 V is realized.
Versatile Phospholipid Assemblies for Functional Synthetic Cells and Artificial Tissues
Authors: Wang Xuejing , Du Hang , Wang Zhao , Mu Wei , Han Xiaojun
Published: August 2020

The bottom‐up construction of a synthetic cell from nonliving building blocks capable of mimicking cellular properties and behaviors helps to understand the particular biophysical properties and working mechanisms of a cell. A synthetic cell built in this way possesses defined chemical composition and structure. Since phospholipids are native biomembrane components, their assemblies are widely used to mimic cellular structures. Here, recent developments in the formation of versatile phospholipid assemblies are described, together with the applications of these assemblies for functional membranes (protein reconstituted giant unilamellar vesicles), spherical and nonspherical protoorganelles, and functional synthetic cells, as well as the high‐order hierarchical structures of artificial tissues. Their biomedical applications are also briefly summarized. Finally, the challenges and future directions in the field of synthetic cells and artificial tissues based on phospholipid assemblies are proposed.