bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Metabolome-Driven Regulation of Adenovirus-Induced Cell Death
Authors: Laevskaya Anastasia , Borovjagin Anton , Timashev Peter S. , Lesniak Maciej S. , Ulasov Ilya
Published: January 2021

A viral infection that involves virus invasion, protein synthesis, and virion assembly is typically accompanied by sharp fluctuations in the intracellular levels of metabolites. Under certain conditions, dramatic metabolic shifts can result in various types of cell death. Here, we review different types of adenovirus-induced cell death associated with changes in metabolic profiles of the infected cells. As evidenced by experimental data, in most cases changes in the metabolome precede cell death rather than represent its consequence. In our previous study, the induction of autophagic cell death was observed following adenovirus-mediated lactate production, acetyl-CoA accumulation, and ATP release, while apoptosis was demonstrated to be modulated by alterations in acetate and asparagine metabolism. On the other hand, adenovirus-induced ROS production and ATP depletion were demonstrated to play a significant role in the process of necrotic cell death. Interestingly, the accumulation of ceramide compounds was found to contribute to the induction of all the three types of cell death mentioned above. Eventually, the characterization of metabolite analysis could help in uncovering the molecular mechanism of adenovirus-mediated cell death induction and contribute to the development of efficacious oncolytic adenoviral vectors.
Establishment of a Genome Editing Tool Using CRISPR-Cas9 in Chlorella vulgaris UTEX395
Authors: Kim Jongrae , Chang Kwang Suk , Lee Sangmuk , Jin EonSeon
Published: January 2021

To date, Chlorella vulgaris is the most used species of microalgae in the food and feed additive industries, and also considered as a feasible cell factory for bioproducts. However, the lack of an efficient genetic engineering tool makes it difficult to improve the physiological characteristics of this species. Therefore, the development of new strategic approaches such as genome editing is trying to overcome this hurdle in many research groups. In this study, the possibility of editing the genome of C. vulgaris UTEX395 using clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)-associated protein 9 (Cas9) has been proven to target nitrate reductase (NR) and adenine phosphoribosyltransferase (APT). Genome-edited mutants, nr and apt, were generated by a DNA-mediated and/or ribonucleoprotein (RNP)-mediated CRISPR-Cas9 system, and isolated based on the negative selection against potassium chlorate or 2-fluoroadenine in place of antibiotics. The null mutation of edited genes was demonstrated by the expression level of the correspondent proteins or the mutation of transcripts, and through growth analysis under specific nutrient conditions. In conclusion, this study offers relevant empirical evidence of the possibility of genome editing in C. vulgaris UTEX395 by CRISPR-Cas9 and the practical methods. Additionally, among the generated mutants, nr can provide an easier screening strategy during DNA transformation than the use of antibiotics owing to their auxotrophic characteristics. These results will be a cornerstone for further advancement of the genetics of C. vulgaris.
Cudratricusxanthone A Inhibits Lipid Accumulation and Expression of Inducible Nitric Oxide Synthase in 3T3-L1 Preadipocytes
Authors: Kwon Hyo-Shin , Jeong Gil-Saeng , Jang Byeong-Churl
Published: January 2021

Cudratricusxanthone A (CTXA) is a natural bioactive compound extracted from the roots of Cudrania tricuspidata Bureau and has been shown to possess anti-inflammatory, anti-proliferative, and hepatoprotective activities. However, at present, anti-adipogenic and anti-inflammatory effects of CTXA on adipocytes remain unclear. In this study, we investigated the effects of CTXA on lipid accumulation and expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and cyclooxygenase (COX)-2, two known inflammatory enzymes, in 3T3-L1 preadipocytes. Strikingly, CTXA at 10 µM markedly inhibited lipid accumulation and reduced triglyceride (TG) content during 3T3-L1 preadipocyte differentiation with no cytotoxicity. On mechanistic levels, CTXA at 10 µM suppressed not only expression levels of CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein-α (C/EBP-α), peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ (PPAR-γ), fatty acid synthase (FAS), and perilipin A, but also phosphorylation levels of signal transducer and activator of transcription-3 (STAT-3) and STAT-5 during 3T3-L1 preadipocyte differentiation. In addition, CTXA at 10 µM up-regulated phosphorylation levels of cAMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) while down-regulating expression and phosphorylation levels of acetyl-CoA carboxylase (ACC) during 3T3-L1 preadipocyte differentiation. Moreover, CTXA at 10 µM greatly attenuated tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α-induced expression of iNOS, but not COX-2, in 3T3-L1 preadipocytes. These results collectively demonstrate that CTXA has strong anti-adipogenic and anti-inflammatory effects on 3T3-L1 cells through control of the expression and phosphorylation levels of C/EBP-α, PPAR-γ, FAS, ACC, perilipin A, STAT-3/5, AMPK, and iNOS.
Effect of Temperature on Heart Rate for Lucilia sericata (syn Phaenicia sericata) and Drosophila melanogaster with Altered Expression of the TrpA1 Receptors
Authors: Marguerite Nicole , Bernard Jate , Harrison Douglas , Harris David , Cooper Robin
Published: January 2021

The transient receptor potential (TrpA—ankyrin) receptor has been linked to pathological conditions in cardiac function in mammals. To better understand the function of the TrpA1 in regulation of the heart, a Drosophila melanogaster model was used to express TrpA1 in heart and body wall muscles. Heartbeat of in intact larvae as well as hearts in situ, devoid of hormonal and neural input, indicate that strong over-expression of TrpA1 in larvae at 30 or 37 °C stopped the heart from beating, but in a diastolic state. Cardiac function recovered upon cooling after short exposure to high temperature. Parental control larvae (UAS-TrpA1) increased heart rate transiently at 30 and 37 °C but slowed at 37 °C within 3 min for in-situ preparations, while in-vivo larvae maintained a constant heart rate. The in-situ preparations maintained an elevated rate at 30 °C. The heartbeat in the TrpA1-expressing strains could not be revived at 37 °C with serotonin. Thus, TrpA1 activation may have allowed enough Ca2+ influx to activate K(Ca) channels into a form of diastolic stasis. TrpA1 activation in body wall muscle confirmed a depolarization of membrane. In contrast, blowfly Lucilia sericata (syn Phaenicia sericata) larvae increased heartbeat at 30 and 37 °C, demonstrating greater cardiac thermotolerance.
The Fractal Geometry of the Nymphalid Groundplan: Self-Similar Configuration of Color Pattern Symmetry Systems in Butterfly Wings
Authors: Otaki Joji M.
Published: January 2021

The nymphalid groundplan is an archetypical color pattern of nymphalid butterflies involving three major symmetry systems and a discal symmetry system, which share the basic morphogenesis unit. Here, the morphological and spatial relationships among these symmetry systems were studied based on cross-species comparisons of nymphalid hindwings. Based on findings in Neope and Symbrenthia, all three major symmetry systems can be expressed as bands, spots, or eyespot-like structures, suggesting equivalence (homology) of these systems in developmental potential. The discal symmetry system can also be expressed as various structures. The discal symmetry system is circularly surrounded by the central symmetry system, which may then be surrounded by the border and basal symmetry systems, based mainly on findings in Agrias, indicating a unified supersymmetry system covering the entire wing. The border symmetry system can occupy the central part of the wing when the central symmetry system is compromised, as seen in Callicore. These results suggest that butterfly color patterns are hierarchically constructed in a self-similar fashion, as the fractal geometry of the nymphalid groundplan. This self-similarity is likely mediated by the serial induction of organizers, and symmetry breaking of the system morphology may be generated by the collision of opposing signals during development.
Efficient Lipid Bilayer Formation by Dipping Lipid-Loaded Microperforated Sheet in Aqueous Solution
Authors: Misawa Nobuo , Fujii Satoshi , Kamiya Koki , Osaki Toshihisa , Takeuchi Shoji
Published: January 2021

This paper describes a method for a bilayer lipid membrane (BLM) formation using a perforated sheet along with an open chamber. Microscopic observation of the formed membrane showed a typical droplet interface bilayer. We proved that the formed membrane was a BLM based on electrical measurements of the membrane protein α-hemolysin, which produces nanopores in BLMs. Unlike the conventional approach for BLM formation based on the droplet contact method, this method provides aqueous surfaces with no organic solvent coating layer. Hence, this method is suitable for producing BLMs that facilitate the direct addition of chemicals into the aqueous phase.
Cyanobacteria as Natural Therapeutics and Pharmaceutical Potential: Role in Antitumor Activity and as Nanovectors
Authors: Qamar Hina , Hussain Kashif , Soni Aishwarya , Khan Anish , Hussain Touseef , Chénais Benoît
Published: January 2021

Cyanobacteria (blue-green microalgae) are ubiquitous, Gram-negative photoautotrophic prokaryotes. They are considered as one of the most efficient sources of bioactive secondary metabolites. More than 50% of cyanobacteria are cultivated on commercial platforms to extract bioactive compounds, which have bene shown to possess anticancer activity. The chemically diverse natural compounds or their analogues induce cytotoxicity and potentially kill a variety of cancer cells via the induction of apoptosis, or altering the activation of cell signaling, involving especially the protein kinase-C family members, cell cycle arrest, mitochondrial dysfunctions and oxidative damage. These therapeutic properties enable their use in the pharma and healthcare sectors for the betterment of future generations. This review provides a baseline overview of the anti-cancerous cyanobacterial bioactive compounds, along with recently introduced nanomaterials that could be used for the development of new anticancer drugs to build a healthy future for mankind.
Fused 1,2-Diboraoxazoles Based on closo-Decaborate Anion–Novel Members of Diboroheterocycle Class
Authors: Voinova Vera V. , Selivanov Nikita A. , Plyushchenko Ivan V. , Vokuev Mikhail F. , Bykov Alexander Yu. , Klyukin Ilya N. , Novikov Alexander S. , Zhdanov Andrey P. , Grigoriev Mikhail S. , Rodin Igor A. , Zhizhin Konstantin Yu. , Kuznetsov Nikolay T.
Published: January 2021

The novel members of the 1,2-diboraoxazoles family have been obtained. In the present work, we have carried out the intramolecular ring-closure reaction of borylated iminols of general type [B10H9N=C(OH)R]− (R = Me, Et, nPr, iPr, tBu, Ph, 4-Cl-Ph). This process is conducted in mild conditions with 83–87% yields. The solid-state structures of two salts of 1,2-diboraoxazoles were additionally investigated by X-ray crystallography. In addition, the phenomena of bonding interactions in the 1,2-diboraoxazole cycles have been theoretically studied by the Quantum Theory of Atoms in Molecules analysis. Several local and integral topological properties of the electron density involved in these interactions have been computed.
Azadirachta indica A. Juss. In Vivo Toxicity—An Updated Review
Authors: Braga Teresa M. , Rocha Lídia , Chung Tsz Yan , Oliveira Rita F. , Pinho Cláudia , Oliveira Ana I. , Morgado Joaquim , Cruz Agostinho
Published: January 2021

The Neem tree, Azadirachta indica A. Juss., is known for its large spectrum of compounds with biological and pharmacological interest. These include, among others, activities that are anticancer, antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory. Some neem compounds are also used as insecticides, herbicides, and/or antifeedants. The safety of these compounds is not always taken into consideration and few in vivo toxicity studies have been performed. The current study is a literature review of the latest in vivo toxicity of A. indica. It is divided in two major sections—aquatic animals toxicity and mammalian toxicity—each related to neem’s application as a pesticide or a potential new therapeutic drug, respectively.
Dynamic Manipulation of THz Waves Enabled by Phase-Transition VO2 Thin Film
Authors: Lu Chang , Lu Qingjian , Gao Min , Lin Yuan
Published: January 2021

The reversible and multi-stimuli responsive insulator-metal transition of VO2, which enables dynamic modulation over the terahertz (THz) regime, has attracted plenty of attention for its potential applications in versatile active THz devices. Moreover, the investigation into the growth mechanism of VO2 films has led to improved film processing, more capable modulation and enhanced device compatibility into diverse THz applications. THz devices with VO2 as the key components exhibit remarkable response to external stimuli, which is not only applicable in THz modulators but also in rewritable optical memories by virtue of the intrinsic hysteresis behaviour of VO2. Depending on the predesigned device structure, the insulator-metal transition (IMT) of VO2 component can be controlled through thermal, electrical or optical methods. Recent research has paid special attention to the ultrafast modulation phenomenon observed in the photoinduced IMT, enabled by an intense femtosecond laser (fs laser) which supports “quasi-simultaneous” IMT within 1 ps. This progress report reviews the current state of the field, focusing on the material nature that gives rise to the modulation-allowed IMT for THz applications. An overview is presented of numerous IMT stimuli approaches with special emphasis on the underlying physical mechanisms. Subsequently, active manipulation of THz waves through pure VO2 film and VO2 hybrid metamaterials is surveyed, highlighting that VO2 can provide active modulation for a wide variety of applications. Finally, the common characteristics and future development directions of VO2-based tuneable THz devices are discussed.
Photostability of Contrast Agents for Photoacoustics: The Case of Gold Nanorods
Authors: Cavigli Lucia , Khlebtsov Boris N. , Centi Sonia , Khlebtsov Nikolai G. , Pini Roberto , Ratto Fulvio
Published: January 2021

Plasmonic particles as gold nanorods have emerged as powerful contrast agents for critical applications as the photoacoustic imaging and photothermal ablation of cancer. However, their unique efficiency of photothermal conversion may turn into a practical disadvantage, and expose them to the risk of overheating and irreversible photodamage. Here, we outline the main ideas behind the technology of photoacoustic imaging and the use of relevant contrast agents, with a main focus on gold nanorods. We delve into the processes of premelting and reshaping of gold nanorods under illumination with optical pulses of a typical duration in the order of few ns, and we present different approaches to mitigate this issue. We undertake a retrospective classification of such approaches according to their underlying, often implicit, principles as: constraining the initial shape; or speeding up their thermal coupling to the environment by lowering their interfacial thermal resistance; or redistributing the input energy among more particles. We discuss advantages, disadvantages and contexts of practical interest where one solution may be more appropriate than the other.
Influence of Ultra-Processed Foods Consumption on Redox Status and Inflammatory Signaling in Young Celiac Patients
Authors: Nestares Teresa , Martín-Masot Rafael , Flor-Alemany Marta , Bonavita Antonela , Maldonado José , Aparicio Virginia A.
Published: January 2021

The current study was designed to assess the influence of consumption of ultra-processed (UPF) on oxidative/antioxidant balance and evoked inflammatory signaling in young patients with celiac disease (CD). The study included 85 children. The celiac group (n = 53) included children with CD with a long (>18 months, n = 17) or recent (<18 months, n = 36) adherence to a gluten-free diet (GFD). The control group (n = 32) included healthy children with a significantly lower consumption of UPF compared to the CD group, both expressed as kcal/day (p = 0.043) and as percentage of daily energy intake (p = 0.023). Among children with CD, the group with the lowest consumption of UPF (below the 50% of daily energy intake) had a greater Mediterranean diet (MD) adherence and higher moderate physical activity levels. In addition, CD children with the lowest consumption of UPF had healthier redox (lower soluble superoxide dismutase-1 and 15-F2t-isoprostanes) and inflammatory profiles (lower macrophage inflammatory protein-1α) compared to the group with the highest consumption of UPF (all, p < 0.05) regardless of the time on a GFD. These findings highlight the importance of a correct monitoring of the GFD. An unbalanced GFD with high consumption of UPF and an unhealthy pattern with less physical activity and worse adherence to MD results in a worse inflammatory profile, which could act as a parallel pathway that could have important consequences on the pathophysiology of the disease.
Prevalence of Parental Comments on Weight/Shape/Eating amongst Sons and Daughters in an Adolescent Sample
Authors: Dahill Lucy , Mitchison Deborah , Morrison Natalie M. V. , Touyz Stephen , Bussey Kay , Trompeter Nora , Lonergan Alexandra , Hay Phillipa
Published: January 2021

Reports suggest that 12–76% of adolescents have experienced parental comments regarding their weight/shape and/or eating behaviours. Parents may engage in conversations about weight/shape and eating out of concern, even without any ill intent; however, the associations of these comments with subsequent problematic psychosocial and eating behaviours are evidenced. Therefore, an in-depth understanding of the content and prevalence of such comments is needed. To date, adolescent-reported prevalence estimates have not included differentiation between mother or father and sons or daughters, nor have they considered eating-focussed comments. This study considered the prevalence of positive and negative parental commentary regarding weight/shape and eating with a focus on parental origin. A total of 2287 Australian male and female adolescents participated via a self-report survey. Adolescents reported frequent positive comments on weight/shape and on eating, most commonly maternal positive comments on weight/shape (78%; 95% CI 77–80). Daughters reported significantly more maternal comments on weight/shape (positive and negative) as well as more negative eating comments from mothers than did sons. Sons reported significantly more negative weight/shape comments from fathers than did daughters. Some negative comments increased significantly with age. These findings support a notable prevalence of reported parental weight/shape and eating comments directed at their offspring, particularly from mothers.
Application of Ligilactobacillus salivarius CECT5713 to Achieve Term Pregnancies in Women with Repetitive Abortion or Infertility of Unknown Origin by Microbiological and Immunological Modulation of the Vaginal Ecosystem
Authors: Fernández Leónides , Castro Irma , Arroyo Rebeca , Alba Claudio , Beltrán David , Rodríguez Juan M.
Published: January 2021

In this study, the cervicovaginal environment of women with reproductive failure (repetitive abortion, infertility of unknown origin) was assessed and compared to that of healthy fertile women. Subsequently, the ability of Ligilactobacillus salivarius CECT5713 to increase pregnancy rates in women with reproductive failure was evaluated. Vaginal pH and Nugent score were higher in women with reproductive failure than in fertile women. The opposite was observed regarding the immune factors TGF-β 1, TFG-β 2, and VEFG. Lactobacilli were detected at a higher frequency and concentration in fertile women than in women with repetitive abortion or infertility. The metataxonomic study revealed that vaginal samples from fertile women were characterized by the high abundance of Lactobacillus sequences, while DNA from this genus was practically absent in one third of samples from women with reproductive failure. Daily oral administration of L. salivarius CECT5713 (~9 log10 CFU/day) to women with reproductive failure for a maximum of 6 months resulted in an overall successful pregnancy rate of 56%. The probiotic intervention modified key microbiological, biochemical, and immunological parameters in women who got pregnant. In conclusion, L. salivarius CECT5713 has proved to be a good candidate to improve reproductive success in women with reproductive failure.
Discovering Genotype Variants in an Infant with VACTERL through Clinical Exome Sequencing: A Support for Personalized Risk Assessment and Disease Prevention
Authors: Pelizzo Gloria , Chiricosta Luigi , Mazzon Emanuela , Zuccotti Gian Vincenzo , Avanzini Maria Antonietta , Croce Stefania , Lima Mario , Bramanti Placido , Calcaterra Valeria
Published: January 2021

Congenital anomalies may have an increased risk of noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) We performed a clinical exome analysis in an infant affected by “Vertebral, Anorectal, Cardiac, Tracheoesophageal, Genitourinary, and Limb” (VACTERL) malformation association to identify potential biomarkers that may be helpful for preventing malignancy risk or other chronic processes. Among the variants, six variants that may be linked with VACTERL were identified in the exome analysis. The variants c.501G>C on OLR1 and c.-8C>G on PSMA6 were previously associated with myocardial infarction. The variants c.1936A>G on AKAP10 and c.575A>G on PON1 are linked to defects in cardiac conduction and artery disease, respectively. Alterations in metabolism were also suggested by the variants c.860G>A on EPHX2 and c.214C>A on GHRL. In addition, three variants associated with colon cancer were discovered. Specifically, the reported variants were c.723G>A on CCND1 and c.91T>A on AURKA proto-oncogenes as well as c.827A>C in the tumor suppressor PTPRJ. A further inspection identified 15 rare variants carried by cancer genes. Specifically, these mutations are located on five tumor suppressors (SDHA, RB1CC1, PTCH1, DMBT1, BCR) and eight proto-oncogenes (MERTK, CSF1R, MYB, ROS1, PCM1, FGFR2, MYH11, BRCC3) and have an allele frequency lower than 0.01 in the Genome Aggregation Database (GnomAD). We observed that the cardiac and metabolic phenotypic traits are linked with the genotype of the patient. In addition, the risk of developing neoplasia cannot be excluded a priori. Long-term surgical issues of patients with VATER syndrome could benefit from the clinical exome sequencing of a personalized risk assessment for the appearance of further disease in pubertal timing and adult age.
Assessing the Behavioural Responses of Small Cetaceans to Unmanned Aerial Vehicles
Authors: Castro Joana , Borges Francisco O. , Cid André , Laborde Marina I. , Rosa Rui , Pearson Heidi C.
Published: January 2021

Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), or drones, have recently emerged as a relatively affordable and accessible method for studying wildlife. Vertical Take-off and Landing (VTOL) UAVs are appropriate for morphometric, behavioural, abundance and demographic studies of marine mammals, providing a stable, nonintrusive and highly manoeuvrable platform. Previous studies using VTOL UAVs have been conducted on various marine mammal species, but specific studies regarding behavioural responses to these devices are limited and scarce. The aim of this study was to evaluate the immediate behavioural responses of common (Delphinus delphis) and bottlenose (Tursiops truncatus) dolphins to a VTOL UAV flown at different altitudes. A multirotor (quadcopter) UAV with an attached GoPro camera was used. Once a dolphin group was located, the UAV was flown at a starting height of 50 m directly above the group, subsequently descending 5 m every 30 s until reaching 5 m. We assessed three behavioural responses to a VTOL UAV at different heights: (i) direction changes, (ii) swimming speed and (iii) diving. Responses by D. delphis (n = 15) and T. truncatus (n = 10) groups were analysed separately. There were no significant responses of T. truncatus to any of the studied variables. For D. delphis, however, there were statistically significant changes in direction when the UAV was flown at a height of 5 m. Our results indicate that UAVs do not induce immediate behavioural responses in common or bottlenose dolphins when flown at heights > 5 m, demonstrating that the use of VTOL UAVs to study dolphins has minimal impact on the animals. However, we advise the use of the precautionary principle when interpreting these results as characteristics of this study site (e.g., high whale-watching activity) may have habituated dolphins to anthropogenic disturbance.
Uptake Kinetics of \({\text{NH}_{4}^{+} }\), \({\text{NO}_{3}^{-} }\) and \({\text{H}_{2}\text{PO}_{4}^{-} }\) by Typha orientalis, Acorus calamus L., Lythrum salicaria L., Sagittaria trifolia L. and Alisma plantago-aquatica Linn
Authors: Wang Kunlun , Hu Qian , Wei Yumin , Yin Hui , Sun Changhong , Liu Guizhong
Published: January 2021

The emergent plants may differ in their capacity to assimilate nutrients from eutrophic water bodies, so the utilization of suitable emergent plants is the key part for successful restoration of shallow eutrophic lakes and rivers. This research applied the depletion method to study the kinetics of uptake of nutrient (H2PO4−, NH4+, NO3−) in different nutrient stresses by the five emergent aquatic plants (Acorus calamus L., Typha orientalis, Lythrum salicaria L., Sagittaria trifolia L., Alisma plantago-aquatica Linn) in the riverine zones of Dashi River (39°30′–39°40′ N, 115°59′–116°5′ E), a shallow eutrophic river located in Fangshan District, Beijing. The results showed that at the three phosphorus levels, A. calamus and A. plantago-aquatica had the highest maximum uptake rate values for NH4+ under low to moderate phosphorus conditions, and high phosphorus, respectively. T. orientalis had the highest maximum uptake rate values for NO3− at all phosphorus concentrations, while the Michaelis-Menten constant values of L. salicaria and A. plantago-aquatica were smaller. At the three nitrogen levels, the maximum uptake rate values for H2PO4− were the greatest for A. plantago-aquatica at the low to moderate nitrogen levels and L. salicaria at high levels. Meanwhile, T. orientalis and L. salicaria had the smallest Michaelis-Menten constant values. In this study, nitrogen microbial transformations, such as nitrification, denitrification and their coupling were not measured and their role in measuring kinetics was not assessed. Thus, achieved results shall be considered as a synthesis of several processes mediated by plants, a theoretical guidance to the selection of plant species for phytoremediation of polluted water bodies with different nutrient stresses for quality improvement around the diverse rivers in Haihe River basin.
Personal Credit Risk Evaluation Model of P2P Online Lending Based on AHP
Authors: Wu Fengpei , Su Xiang , Ock Young Seok , Wang Zhiying
Published: January 2021

With the rapid development of the P2P (peer-to-peer) online lending industry, which is facing significant credit risk, personal credit evaluation is an important method to reduce credit risk. Based on the various indexes of personal credit risk evaluation of domestic and foreign commercial banks, and according to the characteristics of P2P online lending, this paper analyzes the factors that affect the credit risk of P2P online borrowers, introduces the unique risk factors in the field of Internet information, and constructs an index system of personal credit risk evaluation of P2P online lending, which combines qualitative and quantitative indexes, including six major indexes and 21 small indexes. It then quantifies each index and defines the judgment standard of the evaluation results. Using analytic hierarchy process (AHP), expert scoring method, and fuzzy comprehensive evaluation method, this paper establishes a personal credit risk evaluation model of P2P online lending based on AHP method. The public information of two borrowers on the “PaiPai Lending” platform are selected for experimental verification. The results show that the improved personal credit risk evaluation model has better applicability and can evaluate the borrower’s credit status more scientifically, accurately, and comprehensively; thus, it is an effective method of personal credit risk evaluation of P2P online lending.
Characterization of Novel Rhabdoviruses in Chinese Bats
Authors: Luo Dong-Sheng , Li Bei , Shen Xu-Rui , Jiang Ren-Di , Zhu Yan , Wu Jia , Fan Yi , Bourhy Hervé , Hu Ben , Ge Xing-Yi , Shi Zheng-Li , Dacheux Laurent
Published: January 2021

Bats, the second largest order of mammals worldwide, harbor specific characteristics such as sustaining flight, a special immune system, unique habits, and ecological niches. In addition, they are the natural reservoirs of a variety of emerging or re-emerging zoonotic pathogens. Rhabdoviridae is one of the most diverse families of RNA viruses, which consists of 20 ecologically diverse genera, infecting plants, mammals, birds, reptiles, and fish. To date, three bat-related genera are described, named Lyssavirus, Vesiculovirus, and Ledantevirus. However, the prevalence and the distribution of these bat-related rhabdoviruses remain largely unknown, especially in China. To fill this gap, we performed a large molecular retrospective study based on the real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) detection of lyssavirus in bat samples (1044 brain and 3532 saliva samples, from 63 different bat species) originating from 21 provinces of China during 2006–2018. None of them were positive for lyssavirus, but six bat brains (0.6%) of Rhinolophus bat species, originating from Hubei and Hainan provinces, were positive for vesiculoviruses or ledanteviruses. Based on complete genomes, these viruses were phylogenetically classified into three putative new species, tentatively named Yinshui bat virus (YSBV), Taiyi bat virus (TYBV), and Qiongzhong bat virus (QZBV). These results indicate the novel rhabdoviruses circulated in different Chinese bat populations.
The predictive role f country-level ESG indicators
Authors: Dudás Fanni , Naffa Helena
Published: January 2021

Environmental, social and governance aspects, collectively known as ESG fac-tors, have gained significant importance in finance recently. This paper focuses on uncovering the importance of the predictive power of country-level ESG indica-tors in estimating risk premiums. We use the Worldwide Governance Indicators and the database of global ESG indicators provided by the World Bank, while we apply the neural networks methodology. A constant relationship between ESG factors and risk premiums would result in obvious implications for policymakers, as well as for investors. We seek empirical evidence to leverage ESG considera-tions in investment decisions and policymaking to ensure sustainable economic development.
Causality analysis between exports, imports and economic growth of Pakistan
Authors: Shah Syyeda Farhana , Khan Saleem , Rauf Abdur
Published: January 2021

The objective of study is to identify causal relationships among the variables such as exports, imports and Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in case of Pakistan. The study uses time series data for the period from 1981-2016. Stationarity is checked with the Augmented Dickey Fullers' (ADF) test, and the Engle Grange approach is utilized to determine the long run relationship among variables of the study. Moreover, causality among the selected variables is tested by using the Vector Error Correction Model (VECM). We found that the causality runs from GDP to imports and exports. Furthermore, no causal relation is found from exports to GDP and from imports to GDP, but the causality goes from GDP to these two variables. The causality from GDP to exports and imports are positive and significant. Finally, the results indicate that the causal relationship between GDP and imports is stronger than the GDP and exports.
Service Quality Dimensions and Customer Satisfaction in online shopping: A customer’s perspective
Authors: Khan Amna , Zubair Syed Sohaib , Khurram Sobia , Khan Mukaram Ali
Published: January 2021

With the expansion of e-commerce, E-Service Quality is becoming increasingly important. The study aims to investigate the relationship between e-service quality dimensions and customer satisfaction in B2C online shopping in Pakistan emphasizing the customer’s perspective. A total of five dimensions of e-service quality have been tested with endogenous variable i.e. customer satisfaction. Using a quantitative research strategy, data from 225 participants was collected using online questionnaires where 88% of the respondents already had the experience of online shopping that made a valid sample of 199. Smart PLS was used to conduct the data analysis. Following reliability and validity analysis, out of all five dimensions, reliability showed the strongest path coefficient of 0.323. Results also show that all the five hypotheses were supported except for responsiveness. As far as implications of the study are concerned, online shopping stores should devote valuable resource to enhance the significant e-service quality attributes that are emphasized by this study. Moreover, E-Services are becoming increasingly important in B2C e-commerce for improving customer relations and increasing sales and developing countries are of no exception to it. Lastly, as the study is conducted in Pakistani context, generalizability to other countries particularly outside South Asia may be limited due to difference in customers’ shopping behaviours and attitudes.
A Descriptive Analysis of Research Culture in Pakistan with Contextual Reference to Management Sciences
Authors: Naseem Imran , Imran Saima , Tahir Muhammad , Saeed Bilal Bin
Published: January 2021

The study takes on to gauge evolution of research culture in Pakistan with special focus to management sciences. The study is descriptive in script and exploratory in nature. Its primary analysis evolves around number of universities, PhDs produced, and their different contextual ratios. The study finds relatively recent emergence of certain strengths in terms of a research culture and anticipates an opportunity to build upon these strengths in future. Public universities with better experience are in the leading role in almost all domains and private and relevantly new universities lag behind a bit too far. If these could also start contributing, the near future could muster the fruit of a rich research culture.
A Quest for Viable Economic Model for Peshawar Pakistan- Using Etzkowitz Conceptual Framework of Triple Helix Model
Authors: Khan Romy , Ahmad Sajjad
Published: January 2021

The study aims to explore existing university-industry-government (U-I-G) linkages in Peshawar, Pakistan and study the factors that determine these linkages. Furthermore, the research examines the extent to which university-industry-government collaboration can address regional industrial problems and promote economic growth. Hence, the quest is to seek a viable economic model that not only enhances innovation in the region but also improves industrial competitiveness. Therefore, Etzkowitz’s Triple Helix model, based on academia-industry-government collaboration, provides the intellectual context for this research. The study uses semi-structured interviews and a narrative approach; with descriptive and analytical approaches to investigate the nature of university-industry and government linkages in Peshawar. A single case study approach is employed, where Entrepreneurship Development Centre (EDC) at Institute of Management Sciences Peshawar (IMSciences) was selected for research purpose. This is because the centre had already initiated U-I-G linkages to some extent in Peshawar. Research findings suggest that university-industry-government linkages are too weak. The Triple Helix model, which is considered a suitable conceptual framework for regional development (Etzkowitz and Ranga, 2010) needs structural changes to make it work in a developing region like Peshawar (Dzisah and Etzkowitz, 2008). The original spiral model of innovation worked well in the developed world because that industry hosts multi-nationals that can afford industry-academia joint ventures. Their governments not only facilitated interactive networks but also designed such policies’ frameworks that supported high growth firms (HGFs) (Mason and Brown, 2013). Whereas Peshawar is not only a traditional and developing economy but also a war and crisis-ridden region, due to which it cannot attract multi-nationals headquarters. The findings of the research can be treated as an asset that can easily be reused by other developing region for knowledge transfer and economic development.
contrato didático na aula universitária
Authors: Althaus Maiza Taques Margraf , Bagio Viviane Aparecida , Zanon Denise Puglia
Published: January 2021

Discute-se sobre a docência universitária por meio dos contratos didáticos, pautando-se na prática pedagógica desenvolvida no ensino de Didática nas Licenciaturas da Universidade Estadual de Ponta Grossa em 2019. Objetiva-se refletir sobre esta estratégia pedagógica a partir das compreensões teóricas e exemplos adotados na prática docente das autoras. Assim, problematizou-se: seria possível desencadear na docência universitária uma perspectiva de maior aproximação com os alunos, considerando uma relação mais colaborativa, com vistas ao desenvolvimento de autonomia discente? O referencial teórico contempla a definição de contrato didático enfatizando a relação estabelecida entre professor e aluno com vistas à aprendizagem dos conteúdos, pois, ao optar pelos contratos didáticos, a concepção de planejamento avança de uma prática unilateral (do professor aos alunos) para uma visão relacional (professores com os alunos que planejam colaborativamente). As autoras consideram ser imprescindível a adoção de uma concepção de docência que envolva o aluno na construção de sua autonomia.
Preferencias corporales sexualesde jóvenes con instrucción secudaria completa y superior de la ciudad de Lima - Peru
Authors: Velásquez Artidoro Cáceres , Breton Artidoro Cáceres Le
Published: January 2021

Se investiga mediante una encuesta a una muestra predominante- mente joven con nivel de Instrucción de Secundaria Completa y Superior en la ciudad de Lima, con la finalidad de poder relacionar la prosopogno- sis y su desarrollo en el niño como factor de “impronta” con el emparejamiento entre los sexos. El estudio demuestra que la problación investigada prefiere el rostro al resto del cuerpo, centrándose el interes de las mujeres en los ojos y el de los hombres en la boca. Esto nos permitió deducir la importancia del rostro como atractivo sexual de to que inferimos su gran valor como estímulo temprano en el recién nacido.
Abordagem corporal em terapia sexual
Authors: Caridade Amparo
Published: January 2021

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Crítica ao modelo interacionista da identidade de gênero
Authors: Moreira Ramon Luiz Braga Dias
Published: January 2021

O autor pretende repensar a teoria interacionista de John Money sobre Identidade de Gênero, a partir dos novos concertos advindos das teo- rias feministas e das teorias da psicossociologia.O autor situa a teoria de Money dentro da doutrina funcionalista, considerando-a, neste sentido, fixa em seus pressupostos, e com objetivos normativos. Considera ainda que a pesquisa original (que deu origem a toda teo- ria interacionista) não possui validade científica capaz de generalização, tal como vem ocorrendo, a partir dela até nossos dias.A proposta final do artigo é sugerir reformulação a complementação aos concertos de identidade de gênero, compatíveis com as nudanças sociais advindas da pós- modernidade.
Características da clientela residente em setores sociais periféricos que demanda assistência em planejamento familiar
Authors: Moretti Eleonor , Hoffmann Leila Ibrahim , Piva Marilan , Rossetto Silvia Regina , Schneider Rosane
Published: January 2021

Este trabalho apresenta o estudo das características da clientela resi- dente em setores sociais periféricos que demanda assistência em planeja- mento familiar. A primeira parte do trabalho apresenta (30) trinta tabelas que demonstram as características das mulheres entrevistas. As 7 (sete) tabelas seguintes analisam características pessoais das clientes relacionadas entre si. Esta verificação foi possibilitada pela aplicação de um formulário em 96 mulheres, que estavam em suas residências na ocasião da coleta de dados. O tratamento estatístico e a análise dos dados foram efetuados a partir de porcentagem e das hipóteses estatísticas e teste de significância “qui-qua-drado” ao nível de 0,05 entre as variáveis dependentes e independentes e foram obtidos os seguintes resultados: Não existe associação significante, ao nível de 0,05, comparando: - o hábito de fumar das clientes com a presença de hipertensão arterial; - o hábito de fumar das clientes com a presença de obesidade; - a idade das clientes com o hábito de fumar; - a idade das clientes com a presença de hipertensão arterial; - a idade das clientes com a presença de obesidade; - o estado civil das clientes e com quem elas residem; - o planejamento familiar com a idade das clientes. Conclui-se que os resultados obtidos neste trabalho são de grande utilidade como subsídios para o planejamento de ações de saúde da mulher dentro de uma nova e atual abordagem de assistência em planejamento familiar.
Overview of modern applications of energy storage systems: part 2
Authors: Mihaylov Vencislav , Kolev Valentin , Stoilov Dimo
Published: January 2021

The use of Energy storage systems is becoming more widespread around the world due to the coincidental increase in available intermittent renewable energy. The main uses for energy storage are the balancing of supply and demand and increasing the reliability of the energy grid, while also offering other services, such as, cooling and heating for buildings and enabling the creation and use of portable electric devices and electric vehicles.
A Digital Heterodyne 2-150 kHz Measurement Method
Authors: Wright Paul , Ritzmann Deborah
Published: January 2021

This paper describes a new method for measurements of
signals in the 2–150 kHz frequency range, as required to support the
regulation of conducted emissions on the power grid. The digital method is
based on heterodyning, decimation and multi resolution analysis.
DETEKSI DINI PENYAKIT DEGENERATIF PADA REMAJA ANGGOTA KARANG TARUNA
Authors: Hanum Galuh Ratmana , Ardiansyah Syahrul
Published: January 2021

Penyakit degeneratif adalah penyakit kronik yang mempengaruhi kualitas hidup seseorang. Diabetes mellitus dan hipertensi merupakan penyakit degeneratif. Penyakit degeneratif semakin berkembang karena menurunnya aktivitas fisik, gaya hidup dan pola makan. Tujuan kegiatan ini adalah untuk meningkatkan pengetahuan tentang gejala, komplikasi, pencegahan, dan terapi penyakit degeneratif khususnya penyakit diabtes mellitus dan hipertensi dan untuk mengetahui kadar glukosa darah dan tekanan darah kepada pada remaja anggota karang taruna Desa Ketegan Kecamatan Tanggulangin Sidoarjo. Kegiatan pengabdian pada masyarakat dapat dilaksanakan dengan baik dan berhasil hal ini ditinjau dari kelancaran acara dan partisipasi anggota karang taruna Desa Ketegan. Peningkatan kualitas kesehatan perlu dilakukan dengan membangun kesadaran dan peningkatan edukasi kepada anggota karang taruna serta perlu melakukan kontrol kesehatan secara teratur ke pusat kesehatan terdekat hal ini karena penyakit tersebut membutuhkan pengelolaan dan tata laksana yang termonitor secara berkala.
PROGRAM ADIWIYATA DI SMK 2 BUDURAN SEBAGAI UPAYA PENGEMBANGAN ECO-ENTREPRENEURSHIP MENUJU GENERASI MUDA YANG PEDULI DAN BERBUDAYA LINGKUNGAN
Authors: Tirtoni Feri
Published: January 2021

Sekolah adiwiyata merupakan salah satu program pemerintah dalam kementrian lingkungan hidup mampu memberikan kesadaran seluruh masyarakat dalam merawat dan melestarikan lingkungan. Saat ini pelajar sebagai agen of change harus memberikan respon positif terhadap kepeduliaannya terhadap lingkungan. Sehingga generasi masa depan yang disebut pelajar mampu mengambil peluang yang dapat menghasilkan pundi-pundi rupiah melalui kegiatan entrepreunership dengan memanfaatkan limbah organik dan anorganik. Sampah organik dan anorganik dapat dimanfaatkan sebagai bahan kerajinan seperti tas, kompos, pupuk, biogas sehingga mendapatkan nilai jual yang tinggi.
PEMBIASAAN MASYARKAT DESA MENGGUNAKAN PERPUSTAKAAN DI DESA KEPUNTEN KECAMATAN TULANGAN SIDOARJO-JAWA TIMUR
Authors: Siyaswati Siyaswati , Bandjarjani Wahyu , Prastyawan Rikat Eka , Erwanto Lambang
Published: January 2021

Almost all developed and progressed countries, reading activities are a necessity, as well as clothing, food and shelter needs. Reading is an important activity for having good generations that have a broad insight in everything and certainly are sensitive to the conditions of the surrounding environment. One way to grow and increase the reading interest for rural communities so that it becomes a culture is to establish a library, more precisely the Village Library. In this activity, the team of English Department formulated the problem of how the perspectives of the Kepunten Village community on reading habits in the Village Library were mainly about the procurement of the number and collection of books, reading interest, community interest, introduction, utilization and application of English literacy. The method used in seeing the results of the Devotion Program to Society (PPM) of English Language Education Program was described quantitatively. The results showed that reading habits from an early age supported by a variety of reading materials in Indonesia or English Language can encourage local people to develop themselves through village  libraries supported by the local government, Devotion Programs to Society and Facilities that support the management and development of Village Libraries to better and better.
MEMPERKENALKAN KEARIFAN BUDAYA LOKAL MELALUI PRAKTIK MEMBUAT BATIK JUMPUT
Authors: Lathifah Maghfirotul
Published: January 2021

Kearifan budaya lokal merupakan bagian dari kebudayaan yang diwariskan secara turun temurun. Kearifan budaya lokal merupakan sumber kekayaan yang harus dilestarikan dan dijaga agar tidak tergerus dan terkikis oleh zaman yang modern. Salah satu kearifan budayalokal yang harus dijaga ialah pelestarian batik jumput. Batik jumput merupakan kekayaan yang harus dijaga dan diperkenalkan pada para siswa, agar para siswa mengetahui indahnya aneka ragam batik Indonesia.
questionnaire on teacher interaction (QTI) In Assessing Classroom Learning Environment : a literature review
Authors: Astutik Erna Puji
Published: January 2021

artikel ini memberikan gambaran tentang sejarah dan perkembangan di bidang lingkungan pembelajaran.