bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Interest Rate Management and the Nigerian Economy (1986 — 2018)
Authors: Uko Kalu Kalu, , Mike Anyanwaokoro 
Published: August 2019

This study sought to examine the impact of interest rate on the Nigeria’s economy during the pre and post Regulation periods (1986 – 2013). It also investigated the joint influence of Inflation, Investment, Exchange Rate, Money Supply and Monetary Policy Rate individually on the Gross domestic Product which was used a proxy for output as well as the causality between all the factors combined and gross domestic product. Ex post facto method was adopted In order to test the hypothesis, the researcher adopted Augmented Dickey Fuller, ARDL, Bound Test and Error Correction Model. The result showed that no significant relationship exists between Gross Domestic Product and Investment, Exchange Rate and Money Supply while still affirming that a significant relationship exist between Gross Domestic Product, Monetary Policy Rate and inflation. The eye of the authorities should be on Inflation at all times, Prudent management of our Oil earnings, adequate savings (Foreign Reserve) and investments as these will help stabilize the fluctuating exchange rate with its consequent influence on interest rate and economic growth.
Neuroendocrine regulation of fat metabolism by autophagy gene atg‐18 in C. elegans dauer larvae
Authors: Jia Ray , Zhang Jiuli , Jia Kailiang 
Published: August 2019

In environments with limited food and high population density, Caenorhabditis elegans larvae may enter the dauer stage, in which metabolism is shifted to fat accumulation to allow larvae to survive for months without food. Mutations in the insulin‐like receptor gene daf‐2 force C. elegans to constitutively form dauer larva at higher temperature. It has been reported that autophagy is required for fat accumulation in daf‐2 dauer larva. However, the mechanism underlying this process remains unknown. Here, we report that autophagy gene atg‐18 acts in a cell nonautonomous manner in neurons and intestinal cells to mediate the influence of daf‐2 signaling on fat metabolism. Moreover, ATG‐18 in chemosensory neurons plays a vital role in this metabolic process. Finally, we report that neuronal ATG‐18 functions through neurotransmitters to control fat storage in daf‐2 dauers, which suggests an essential role of autophagy in the neuroendocrine regulation of fat metabolism by insulin‐like signaling.
Methylformiat (Ameisensäuremethylester) [MAK value documentation in German language, 2019]
Authors: Hartwig A. ,   MAK Commission
Published: August 2019

Abstract

The German Commission for the Investigation of Health Hazards of Chemical Compounds in the Work Area has re‐evaluated the maximum concentration at the workplace (MAK value), the Pregnancy Risk Group and the germ cell mutagenicity of formic acid methyl ester [
107‐31‐3
].

No neurobehavioral effects were observed in subjects exposed to 100 ml/m
3
for 8 hours at rest. After taking the increased respiratory volume at the workplace into account because the blood:air partition coefficient of formic acid methyl ester is > 5 (see Sections I b and I c of the List of MAK and BAT Values), the MAK value of 50 ml/m
3
has been retained.

Since a systemic effect is critical, Peak Limitation Category II is retained. As it is unclear whether the metabolites methanol and formic acid or formic acid methyl ester itself are responsible for the effects, the excursion factor has been set to the default value of 2 for substances with systemic effects.
There are no developmental toxicity studies with formic acid methyl ester. Taking into consideration the data for the metabolites formic acid and methanol, damage to the embryo and foetus is unlikely if the MAK value for formic acid methyl ester is not exceeded. Therefore, formic acid methyl ester remains classified in Pregnancy Risk Group C.
Formic acid methyl ester is not mutagenic in bacteria. No clastogenic effects were observed in vivo.
Uptake via the skin can lead to systemic effects and formic acid methyl ester remains designated with “H”. There are no clinical results for sensitization in humans and no sensitization tests in animals.
Methanol [MAK value documentation in German language, 2019]
Authors: Hartwig A. ,   MAK Commission
Published: August 2019

Abstract

The German Commission for the Investigation of Health Hazards of Chemical Compounds in the Work Area has re‐evaluated the maximum concentration at the workplace (MAK value) of methanol [
67‐56‐1
] of 200 ml/m
3
, considering all toxicity endpoints. Available publications and unpublished study reports are described in detail.

Uptake of larger amounts of methanol depresses the central nervous system and leads to developmental toxicity as direct effects of methanol followed by metabolic acidosis and ocular toxicity as formate effects.

No neurobehavioral effects were observed in subjects exposed 4 hours to 200 ml/m
3
at rest leading to a concentration of 6.5 mg methanol/l blood. The steady state concentration of methanol after exposure to 100 ml/m
3
with physical activity is calculated to be 6 mg methanol/l blood and is reached after 8 hours. Therefore, taking into account the increased respiratory volume at the workplace (see List of MAK‐ and BAT Values, Sections I b and I c), the MAK value has been lowered to 100 ml/m
3
. Due to the half‐life for methanol of 1.4 hours in humans, no accumulation of methanol is expected during the work week.

Since a systemic effect is critical, Peak Limitation Category II is retained. As the half‐life in humans is 1.4 hours, the excursion factor has been set to 2. No irritation was observed in volunteers at 200 ml/m
3
, the permissible peak concentration.

Taking into consideration the data for methanol and the metabolite formate, damage to the embryo and fetus is unlikely when the MAK value for methanol is not exceeded. Therefore, methanol remains classified in Pregnancy Risk Group C.
Methanol is not genotoxic in vitro at concentrations which are not cytotoxic. No clastogenic effects were observed in vivo. No increased tumour incidence occurred in long‐term inhalation studies in mice and rats as well as in a long‐term study in rats with administration in the drinking water.
Uptake via the skin can lead to systemic effects and methanol remains designated with “H”.
Zirkonium und seine Verbindungen (außer Zirkoniumdioxid) [MAK value documentation in German language, 2019]
Authors: Hartwig A. ,   MAK Commission
Published: August 2019

AbstractThe German Commission for the Investigation of Health Hazards of Chemical Compounds in the Work Area has re‐evaluated the maximum concentration at the workplace (MAK value) for zirconium and its compounds. No new data are available that would be relevant for the derivation of a MAK value for zirconium compounds, with the exception of zirconium dioxide (see documentation “Zirconium dioxide”, to be published in 2019). Therefore, zirconium and its compounds (except zirconium dioxide) are listed in Section II b of the List of MAK and BAT Values. Based on the new human and animal data, zirconium and its compounds (except zirconium dioxide) are not regarded as sensitizers. Dermal absorption does not contribute to systemic toxicity.
Methanthiol [MAK value documentation in German language, 2019]
Authors: Hartwig A. ,   MAK Commission
Published: August 2019

Abstract

The German Commission for the Investigation of Health Hazards of Chemical Compounds in the Work Area has re‐evaluated the maximum concentration at the work place (MAK value) of methyl mercaptan [
74‐93‐1
]. Available publications and unpublished study reports are described in detail. No new data are available that would be relevant for the derivation of a MAK value for methyl mercaptan. Therefore, the MAK value of 0.5 ml/m
3
is retained based on slight behavioural changes at 2 ml/m
3
in a 90‐day inhalation study in rats. The MAK value of 0.5 ml/m
3
for methyl mercaptan is supported by a limited inhalation study with 3 volunteers exposed to ethanethiol, showing irritation and other symptoms after repeated exposure to ethanethiol in a concentration of 3.9 ml/m
3
, but not after 0.39 ml/m
3
. The behavioural changes in rats exposed to methyl mercaptan are interpreted as a result of the odour nuisance or the local irritation. Therefore, methyl mercaptan is classified in Peak Limitation Category I with an excursion factor of 1 as no studies in humans are available. In a screening study for repeated exposure and reproductive toxicity with sodium methanethiolate no foetotoxic effects were observed up to the highest dose tested of 45 mg/kg body weight, however, the teratogenicity was not examined. Methyl mercaptan remains assigned to Pregnancy Risk Group D. Skin contact is not expected to contribute significantly to systemic toxicity. There are no data on sensitization. Methyl mercaptan and sodium methanethiolate are neither mutagenic nor clastogenic.
Ethylenoxid [MAK value documentation in German language, 2019]
Authors: Hartwig A. ,   MAK Commission
Published: August 2019

AbstractThe German Commission for the Investigation of Health Hazards of Chemical Compounds in the Work Area has re‐evaluated ethylene oxide [75‐21‐8] considering all toxicological endpoints.Ethylene oxide is an alkylating agent that is mutagenic and carcinogenic in animals. A number of epidemiological studies have indicated a carcinogenic potential, but others showed no excess cancer risk upon exposure to ethylene oxide. Re‐evaluation has shown that a maximum concentration at the workplace (MAK value) cannot be derived. Accordingly, ethylene oxide remains classified in Carcinogen Category 2.Nevertheless, the Commission has derived an excess risk of lymphoid tumours for both men and women. Forty‐year exposure to 0.1 ml/m3ethylene oxide at the workplace thus results in a risk of 1.4 or 4 per 100 000.Ethylene oxide is a mutagen in vitro and in vivo and a known germ cell mutagen. Accordingly, it remains classified in Germ Cell Mutagen Category 2. Ethylene oxide can be taken up via the skin in toxicologically relevant amounts. Therefore, the designation “H” is retained. The published reports do not indicate a relevant potential for sensitization of skin and airways in humans.
A Biodegradable Multifunctional Graphene Oxide Platform for Targeted Cancer Therapy
Authors: Martín Cristina , Ruiz Amalia , Keshavan Sandeep , Reina Giacomo , Murera Diane , Nishina Yuta , Fadeel Bengt , Bianco Alberto 
Published: August 2019

AbstractThe design of multifunctional materials able to both selectively deliver a drug into cells in a targeted manner and display an enhanced propensity for biodegradation is an important goal. Here, graphene oxide (GO) is functionalized with the chemotactic peptide N‐formyl‐methionyl‐leucyl‐phenylalanine (fMLP) known to interact with the formyl peptide receptor, which is expressed in different cancer cells, including cervical carcinoma cells. This study highlights the ability of GOfMLP for targeted drug delivery and cancer cell killing and the subsequent degradation capacity of the hybrid. Biodegradation is assessed via Raman spectroscopy and transmission electron microscopy. The results show that GOfMLP is susceptible to faster myeloperoxidase‐mediated degradation. The hybrid material, but not GO, is capable of inducing neutrophil degranulation with subsequent degradation, being the first study showing inducible neutrophil degradation by the nanomaterial itself with no prior activation of the cells. In addition, confocal imaging and flow cytometry using HeLa cells demonstrate that GOfMLP is able to deliver the chemotherapeutic agent doxorubicin faster into cells, inducing higher levels of apoptosis, when compared to nonfunctionalized GO. The results reveal that GOfMLP is a promising carrier able to efficiently deliver anticancer drugs, being endowed with the ability to induce its own biodegradation.
Confined Transformation of UiO‐66 Nanocrystals to Yttria‐Stabilized Zirconia with Hierarchical Pore Structures for Catalytic Applications
Authors: Qin Runze , Zeng Hua Chun 
Published: August 2019

AbstractSolid acids as a substitution for hazardous liquid acids (e.g., HF and H2SO4) can promote many important reactions in the industry, such as carbon cracking, to proceed in a more sustainable way. Starting from a zirconium‐based metal‐organic framework (UiO‐66 nanocrystals), herein a transformative method is reported to prepare micro/mesoporous yttria‐stabilized zirconia (YSZ) encapsulated inside a mesoporous silica shell. It is then further demonstrated that the resultant reactor‐like catalysts can be used for a wide range of catalytic reactions. The acidity of the YSZ phase is found with rich accessible Lewis acid and Brønsted acid sites and they display superior performances for esterification (acetic acid and ethanol) and Friedel‐Crafts alkylation (benzylation of toluene). After being loaded with different noble metals, furthermore, hydrogenation of CO2 and a one‐pot cascade reaction (nitrobenzene and benzaldehyde to N‐benzylaniline) are used as model reactions to prove the versatility and stability of catalysts. Based on the findings of this work, it is believed that this class of reactor‐like catalysts can meet future challenges in the development of new catalyst technology for greener heterogeneous catalysis.
Side‐Chain Engineering on Dopant‐Free Hole‐Transporting Polymers toward Highly Efficient Perovskite Solar Cells (20.19%)
Authors: Zhang Luozheng , Liu Chang , Wang Xingzhu , Tian Yanqing , Jen Alex K. Y. , Xu Baomin 
Published: August 2019

AbstractA variety of dopant‐free hole‐transporting materials (HTMs) is developed to serve as alternatives to the typical dopant‐treated ones; however, their photovoltaic performance still falls far behind. In this work, the side chain of a polymeric HTM is engineered by partially introducing diethylene glycol (DEG) groups in order to simultaneously optimize the properties of both the bulk of the HTM layer and the HTM/perovskite interface. The intermolecular π–π stacking interaction in the HTM layer is unexpectedly weakened after the incorporation of DEG groups, whereas the lamellar packing interaction is strengthened. A doubled hole mobility is obtained when 3% of the DEG groups replace the original alkyl side chains, and a champion power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 20.19% (certified: 20.10%) is then achieved, which is the first report of values over 20% for dopant‐free organic HTMs. The device maintains 92.25% of its initial PCE after storing at ambient atmosphere for 30 d, which should be due to the enhanced hydrophobicity of the HTM film.
Whirling‐Folded Triboelectric Nanogenerator with High Average Power for Water Wave Energy Harvesting
Authors: An Jie , Wang Zi Ming , Jiang Tao , Liang Xi , Wang Zhong Lin 
Published: August 2019

AbstractOcean wave energy, as one of the most abundant resources on the earth, is a promising energy source for large‐scale applications. Triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) provide a new strategy for water wave energy harvesting; however, its average performance in realistic water wave conditions is still not high. In this work, a whirling‐folded TENG (WF‐TENG) with maximized space utilization and minimized electrostatic shielding is constructed by 3D printing and printed circuit board technologies. The flexible vortex structure responds easily to multiform wave excitation with improved oscillation frequency. A standard water wave tank is established to generate controllable water waves to characterize the device performance. It is found to be determined by wave conditions and internal structure, which is also revealed by a theoretical dynamical analysis. The WF‐TENG can produce a maximum peak power of 6.5 mW and average power of 0.28 mW, which can power a digital thermometer to operate constantly and realize self‐powered monitoring on the TENG network to prevent possible damage in severe environments. Moreover, a self‐charge‐supplement WF‐TENG network is proposed to improve the output performance and stability. This study provides an effective strategy for improving the average power and characterizing the performance of spherical TENG towards large‐scale blue energy.
Tumor Targeting Strategies of Smart Fluorescent Nanoparticles and Their Applications in Cancer Diagnosis and Treatment
Authors: He Jiuyang , Li Chenchen , Ding Lin , Huang Yanan , Yin Xuelian , Zhang Junfeng , Zhang Jian , Yao Chenjie , Liang Minmin , Pirraco Rogério P. , Chen Jie , Lu Quan , Baldridge Ryan , Zhang Yong , Wu Minghong , Reis Rui L. , Wang Yanli 
Published: August 2019

AbstractAdvantages such as strong signal strength, resistance to photobleaching, tunable fluorescence emissions, high sensitivity, and biocompatibility are the driving forces for the application of fluorescent nanoparticles (FNPs) in cancer diagnosis and therapy. In addition, the large surface area and easy modification of FNPs provide a platform for the design of multifunctional nanoparticles (MFNPs) for tumor targeting, diagnosis, and treatment. In order to obtain better targeting and therapeutic effects, it is necessary to understand the properties and targeting mechanisms of FNPs, which are the foundation and play a key role in the targeting design of nanoparticles (NPs). Widely accepted and applied targeting mechanisms such as enhanced permeability and retention (EPR) effect, active targeting, and tumor microenvironment (TME) targeting are summarized here. Additionally, a freshly discovered targeting mechanism is introduced, termed cell membrane permeability targeting (CMPT), which improves the tumor‐targeting rate from less than 5% of the EPR effect to more than 50%. A new design strategy is also summarized, which is promising for future clinical targeting NPs/nanomedicines design. The targeting mechanism and design strategy will inspire new insights and thoughts on targeting design and will speed up precision medicine and contribute to cancer therapy and early diagnosis.
Extremely Broadband Topological Surface States in a Photonic Topological Metamaterial
Authors: Kim Minkyung , Gao Wenlong , Lee Dasol , Ha Taewoo , Kim Teun‐Teun , Zhang Shuang , Rho Junsuk 
Published: August 2019

AbstractMetamaterials, artificially engineered materials consisting of subwavelength unit cells, have shown potentials in light manipulation with their extraordinary optical properties. Especially, photonic topological metamaterials possessing topologically protected surface states enable extremely robust control of light. Here, an extremely broadband topological phase in photonic topological metamaterials is demonstrated. In particular, topological surface states are observed for all the frequencies below a certain cut‐off, originating from a double Weyl point at zero frequency. The extreme bandwidth and robustness of the photonic topological metamaterial are beneficial for practical applications such as one‐way waveguide and photonic integrated systems but also advantageous in design and fabrication since the only necessary condition is to satisfy the effective hyperbolic and chiral properties, without entailing strict periodic arrangement.
Visualizing the Fate of Intra‐Articular Injected Mesenchymal Stem Cells In Vivo in the Second Near‐Infrared Window for the Effective Treatment of Supraspinatus Tendon Tears
Authors: Yang Yimeng , Chen Jun , Shang Xiliang , Feng Zhujun , Chen Chen , Lu Jingyi , Cai Jiangyu , Chen Yuzhou , Zhang Jian , Hao Yuefeng , Yang Xing , Li Yunxia , Chen Shiyi 
Published: August 2019

AbstractMesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are capable of exerting strong therapeutic potential for the treatment of supraspinatus tendon tear. However, MSC therapy remains underutilized and perhaps underrated due to the limited evidence of dynamic visualization of cellular behavior in vivo. Here, second near‐infrared fluorescence imaging with biocompatible PbS quantum dots (QDs) provides a cellular migration map and information on the biodistribution and clearance processes of three densities of intra‐articularly injected, labeled MSCs to treat supraspinatus tendon tear in mice. Intra‐articular injection avoids entrapment of MSCs by filter organs and reduces the QD‐induced organ toxicity. Notably, the MSCs share a similar migration direction, but the moderate density group is somewhat more efficient, showing the longest residence time and highest cell retention rate around the footprint during the repair stage. Furthermore, quantitative kinetic investigation demonstrates that labeled MSCs are cleared by feces and urine. Histomorphometric analysis demonstrates that the moderate density group achieves maximum therapeutic effect and labeled MSCs do not induce any injury or inflammation to major organs, which suggests that administration of too many or few MSCs may decrease their effectiveness. Such an imaging approach provides spatiotemporal evidence for response to MSC therapy in vivo, facilitating the optimization of MSC therapy.
Optical Shading Induces an In‐Plane Potential Gradient in a Semiartificial Photosynthetic System Bringing Photoelectric Synergy
Authors: Ravi Sai Kishore , Zhang Yaoxin , Wang Yanan , Nandakumar Dilip Krishna , Sun Wanxin , Jones Michael R. , Tan Swee Ching 
Published: August 2019

AbstractSemiartificial photosynthetic systems have opened up new avenues for harvesting solar energy using natural photosynthetic materials in combination with synthetic components. This work reports a new, semiartificial system for solar energy conversion that synergistically combines photoreactions in a purple bacterial photosynthetic membrane with those in three types of transition metal–semiconductor Schottky junctions. A transparent film of a common transition metal interfaced with an n‐doped silicon semiconductor exhibits an in‐plane potential gradient when a light‐penetration variance is established on its surface by optical shading of photoabsorbing photosynthetic membranes. The in‐plane potential gradients (0.08–0.3 V) enable a directional charge transport between the synthetic and natural photoelectric systems, which is further enhanced in a device setting by a biocompatible thixotropic gel electrolyte that permeates the membrane multilayer, facilitating a strong and steady photoelectric current as high as 1.3 mA cm−2, the highest achieved so far with any anoxygenic photosynthetic system.
Serum levels of stress hormones in Albanian patients with allergic rhinitis
Authors: Lokaj‐Berisha Violeta , Gacaferri‐Lumezi Besa , Berisha Naser 
Published: August 2019

BackgroundThe integration of the immune and endocrine systems through a network of signaling molecules—including cytokines and hormones—produces a consequent modulatory effect on immune function. In this study we aimed to comparatively evaluate the serum concentrations of dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEA‐S) and cortisol in patients with allergic rhinitis and healthy control subjects.MethodsMorning fasting blood samples were obtained from 96 participants, including 66 patients with allergic rhinitis (mean age, 28 ± 10.7 years; range, 11‐59 years) and 30 healthy control subjects (mean age, 32.4 ± 11.1 years; range, 14‐57 years). Total immunoglobulin E (IgE), DHEA‐S, and cortisol concentrations were measured by radioimmunoassay.ResultsFemale patients with allergic rhinitis exhibited lower DHEA‐S levels than male patients and control subjects (p < 0.001). Although no intergroup differences were observed in the morning:evening cortisol ratio, the DHEA‐S:cortisol ratio was the highest among female patients with allergic rhinitis (1:11). Total IgE levels were significantly higher among patients of both sexes (p < 0.05) than among the control subjects. There was a positive correlation between body mass index and age among all groups of participants (male and female patients: r = 0.6 and 0.7, respectively; male and female controls: r = 0.6 and 0.4, respectively) and a negative correlation between DHEA‐S level and age among females (patients and controls: r = −0.4 and −0.5, respectively) and healthy male subjects (r = −0.7).ConclusionIn this study, female patients with allergic rhinitis exhibited significantly lower DHEA‐S levels than their healthy counterparts and male patients. These results should be confirmed in a larger group of participants.