bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Potential Chemopreventive Role of Boldine Against Hepatocellular Carcinoma via Modulation of Cell Cycle Proteins in Rat Model
Authors: Subramaniam Nirmala , Kannan Pugazhendhi , Sundaram Jagan , Mari Ashok , Velli Sathesh K. , Salam Sharmila , Krishnan Palanisamy , Balaraman Gopalakrishnan , Thiruvengadam Devaki
Published: February 2021

Background:

To evaluate the chemopreventive potential of boldine against diethylnitrosamine (DEN) induced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in wistar albino rats.

Objective:

Boldine is an alkaloid isolated from Peumus boldus. The primary active constituents of boldine exhibited several potential medicinal properties. The present study was evaluated to explore the chemopreventive agent of boldine on anti-proliferative efficacy against diethylnitrosamine (DEN) induced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in wistar albino rats.

Methods:

The effect of boldine on cellular proliferative markers, i.e., PCNA and Ki67on hepatocellular carcinoma
rats was determined by immuno expression study. Liver marker enzymes, tumor biomarker, oxidative stress
markers, antioxidant status, and xenobiotic phase I and II enzymes in HCC rats were analyzed. Moreover, cell
cycle proteins, i.e., p21Cip1/Kip1, p27 Cip1/Kip1, Cyclin D1, CDK 4, Cyclin E1, and CDK 2 were investigated using immuno
expression analysis.

Results:

Treatment of boldine protected the liver against reactive oxygen species such as hydrogen peroxide, superoxide,
protein carbonyl, and lipid peroxide during hepatocarcinogenesis by boosted antioxidants-superoxide
dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT). Boldine caused a substantial enhanced detoxification process by moderating
phase I and II xenobiotic-metabolizing enzymes. Besides, the study found that boldine significantly inhibited
the cellular proliferative markers like PCNA and Ki67 and regulated the specific cell cycle-associated proteins
by up-regulated expression of p21Cip1/Kip1and p27 Cip1/Kip1 and down-regulated expression of Cyclin D1, CDK 4, Cyclin
E1, and CDK 2.

Conclusion:

Our data manifests the anti-proliferative effect of boldine, which negatively modulates cellular proliferation and regulates cell cycle by protecting the cell from reactive oxygen species (ROS), suggesting that boldine establish it as a chemopreventive agent in diethylnitrosamine-induced hepatocarcinogenesis in rats.
Therapies of Hematological Malignancies: An Overview of the Potential Targets and Their Inhibitors
Authors: Banerjee Suvankar , Amin Sk. Abdul , Jha Tarun
Published: February 2021

Background:

The term “hematological malignancy” means a cluster
of cancer and tumor conditions, including leukemia, lymphoma, myeloproliferative
neoplasm, lymphoproliferative disorders, etc., involved with circulatory organs
like blood, bone marrow, lymph, and lymph nodes.

Introduction:

The increase in the number of hematological malignancy-related
cases in our modern society urges suitable treatment of such disease. In this current
era, there is still a major deficiency in the number of suitable chemotherapeutic
agents for the treatment of hematological malignancies.

Methods:

The researchers were successful in identifying various cellular, extracellular
proteins, and cytokines, as well as their involvement in different hematological
malignancies via epigenetic modulation and regulation of other proteins
and signaling pathways. Here, we have discussed the structural aspects, connection,
and pathophysiological contributions of a group of different cellular and extracellular
proteins that are regulated and/or have a significant influence on the
progression of different hematological malignancies along with their potent inhibitors.

Result and Conclusion:

The correlation of physiological proteins with cancerous
hematological conditions has been discussed here. It can be crucial for the development
of potent inhibitors as chemotherapeutic agents to contest such malignancies.
This review will also be useful in the chemotherapeutic agent development
by providing crucial information about such hematological malignancy-related
proteins and their inhibitors. The repurposed drugs with potential for anticancer
applications are also discussed.
High-Throughput Determination of Vitamins (B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B7, and B9) using UPLC-ESI-MS
Authors: Al-Dosseri Abdullah S. , Alam Mohd A. , Al-Jenoobi Fahad I.
Published: February 2021

Background:

To prevent vitamin deficiencies or to restore their levels, multi-vitamin
formulations are indicated for the elderly, adults, children, and infants.

Objective:

To provide a valid high-throughput method for simultaneous determination of vitamins
in multi-vitamin formulations.

Methods:

A high-throughput UPLC-ESI-MS method was developed and validated for simultaneous
determination of vitamins B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B7, and B9. Analytes were eluted on an Acquity
UPLC® BEH C18 1.7 μm, 2.1 x 50 mm column at 40 ± 5°C. Mobile phase containing acetonitrile
(0.1% formic acid) and water (0.1% formic acid) in 30:70% ratio was pumped at 300 μL/min
under isocratic control. Protonated ions of vitamin B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B7, and B9 were monitored
in single ion recording mode, using an electrospray ionization probe in positive mode.

Results:

The m/z ratios of positive ions of vitamin B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B7, and B9 were 265.1,
377.2, 122.95, 220, 169.98, 244.9, and 442.1, respectively. The calibration curve of different linearity
range (ng/ml) was prepared for each vitamin. Linearity range for vitamin B1, B2, B3, B5, B6,
B7, and B9 were 60-1000, 25-1000, 75-5000, 30-1000, 30/1000, 25/1000 and 30-900 25-1000
ng/mL, respectively. Coefficient of variation for intra-day and inter-day precision for vitamin B1,
B2, B3, B5, B6, B7, and B9 at the middle and higher limit of quantitation were less than 15%.

Conclusion:

The method was successfully developed and validated, and three different brands of
multi-vitamin tablets were assayed for water-soluble vitamins.
Image Enhancement with Improved Global and Local Visual Effects
Authors: Adeel Muhammad , Song Yinglei
Published: February 2021

Background:

In many applications of image processing, the enhancement of images is
often a step necessary for their preprocessing. In general, for an enhanced image, the visual contrast
as a whole and its refined local details are both crucial for achieving accurate results for subsequent
classification or analysis.

Objective:

This paper proposes a new approach for image enhancement such that the global and local
visual effects of an enhanced image can both be significantly improved.

Methods:

The approach utilizes the normalized incomplete Beta transform to map pixel intensities
from an original image to its enhanced one. An objective function that consists of two parts is optimized
to determine the parameters in the transform. One part of the objective function reflects the
global visual effects in the enhanced image and the other one evaluates the enhanced visual effects
on the most important local details in the original image. The optimization of the objective function
is performed with an optimization technique based on the particle swarm optimization method.

Results:

Experimental results show that the approach is suitable for the automatic enhancement of images.

Conclusion:

The proposed approach can significantly improve both the global and visual contrasts
of the image.
Realization of advantages of Russian processor architecture KOMDIV64 in technical means of complexes of civil purpose automation
Authors: Dolgov D. A. , Nozdrin K. S.
Published: February 2021

The paper discusses the practical issues of creation cluster-type computing equipment and switching equipment, which are based on Russian technologies and components developed for the segment of high-performance teraflop-class servers. A number of technical solutions are proposed, aimed at forming in the shortest possible time with minimal costs using a limited set of components (clusters), a model range of cluster-type computing equipment. The latter should ensure the creation of technical means of automation systems that have a performance parity with technical means of foreign production, as well as surpass it in a number of important operational and technical parameters, including the duration of the products and technical means life cycle, failure stability and external influencing factors durability.
Dynamic Models of Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Manipulator Control and Stabilization
Authors: Nguyen V. V. , Usina E. E.
Published: February 2021

Purpose or research. Improving guidance accuracy of robotic capture mounted on an unmanned aerial vehicle and the stability of combined aerial manipulation system is the main objective of this study. In order to achieve this goal, a particular task of developing a manipulator control system that considers joint working space of manipulator and unmanned aerial vehicle has been solved. Methods. Kinematic model of a manipulator with three degrees of freedom is proposed in this work. This is a part of air manipulation system of quadrotor. Rotary movement of two successive links is performed by means of hinge joint. Direct and inverse kinematic tasks were solved for this manipulator. Equations for dynamic model were also obtained. Dynamic response of each link is sufficient for quick stabilization of the system with little re-adjustment. Self-tuning fuzzy proportional-integral-differentiating (PID) regulator was developed based on these data to control the manipulator. Control system for each manipulator link consists of a PID regulator and a fuzzy PID output using Mamdani method. Results. Simulation of developed manipulator control system was carried out in the absence of disturbances. The proposed control system satisfies specified requirements and ensures continuous and smooth movement of manipulator links in calculated trajectory. Conclusion. The developed three-link manipulator motion control method provides a horizontal mass center shift not more than 1.25 mm, which is an acceptable result for rapid stabilization of unmanned aerial manipulator and further practical experiments.
Instrumental Method for Determining Energy Efficiency Indicators of Apartment Residential Houses
Authors: Monastyrev P. V. , Makarov A. M. , Chekh A. S. , Kutsenko O. I.
Published: February 2021

Purpose of research. The identified inconsistencies with energy-saving standards are usually considered as a set of individual elements. Improvement of the entire system (walls, windows, floor structures, coatings) helps to reduce external heat loss, which, on the whole, leads to heat energy saving in the object under study. The method that considers the element component of a building has some disadvantages, since, as a result of calculations, there is a significant error in determining the specific characteristics of heat consumption for heating and ventilation of a building and, hence, in determining the energy efficiency class of a building. This paper discusses the method of instrumental control of indicators. It offers the method of instrumental control of indicators that determine the class of energy efficiency of an apartment house in accordance with the current requirements of regulatory documents and legislative acts. Methods.The proposed method makes it possible to perform an assessment using whole-building metering devices for heat and electricity consumption during a calendar year and a short-term instrumental survey in order to clarify some other parameters necessary for evaluating energy efficiency indicators of apartment residential houses. The paper also suggests an equation for converting the value of the measured average internal air temperature during a short-term survey to the average value of air temperature inside the house during the heating period. Results. The method was tested through the use of a comprehensive instrumental survey of apartment residential houses of standard series 1-447c from the Tambov housing stock. The value of deviation of the actual specific annual heat consumption for heating and ventilation, taking into account the household heat supply of the building in question from the base level (for the given apartment house), is 151•4.8 kWh/m2, which corresponds to the deviation of 13 * 0.1 %. Тhe building under consideration must be assigned an energy efficiency class – F (Low). Conclusion. The given method can be applied by the residents of apartment houses, the employees of state housing inspections and the specialists of organizations conducting energy audits in assessing compliance with regional energy efficiency and consumption targets, for the residential houses and public buildings being commissioned and buildings that are in use when assigning the mentioned buildings energy efficiency class.
Study of the Process of Additive Formation of Low-Melting Materials by Means of a Low-Power Solid-State Laser
Authors: Kuts V. V. , Merkulov V. S. , Grechukhin A. N.
Published: February 2021

Purpose of research.Testing a method for additive formation of low-melting materials through the use of a low-powersolid-state (ytterbium) laser (maximum power 50 W). A series of experiments have been carried. As a result of those experiments, the elements of shaping mode have been obtained. They ensure the shaping of products without complete meltingof the construction material while preserving the shape of a rough workpiece. Thus, the possibility of using this type ofequipment for shaping products from low-melting materials in an additive way has been confirmed, which is the basis forfurther research on other materials, as well as the additional use of a shielding atmosphere.Methods.Methods of experiment planning and empirical data processing have been used for conducting experiments.Results.The possibility of using a low-power laser for the set tasks has been confirmed. Values ranges of shapingmodes have been obtained, which ensure the formation of products made of low-melting materials by the partial melting technique through an additive method.Conclusion.The experimental studies have shown that a low-power solid-state laser can be applied for shapingproducts made of low-melting materials using an additive method. Applying the results of this study will allow furtherdevelopment of additive shaping of other metals (such as copper or aluminum), for which it is necessary to upgradethe equipment in terms of creating a shielding atmosphere in the melt zone, as well as increasing the laser power.
Effects of COVID-19 Emergency Alert Text Messages on Practicing Preventive Behaviors: Cross-sectional Web-Based Survey in South Korea
Authors: Lee Minjung , You Myoungsoon
Published: February 2021

Background

Sending emergency messages via mobile phone text messaging can be a promising communication tool to rapidly disseminate information and promote preventive behavior among the public during epidemic outbreaks. The battle to overcome COVID-19 is not yet over; thus, it is essential that the public practices preventive measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

Objective

This study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of reading and obtaining information via emergency alert SMS text messages and their effects on the individual's practice of preventive behaviors during the early stages of the COVID-19 outbreak in South Korea.

Methods

A cross-sectional web-based survey comprising 990 participants was conducted over 3 days (March 25-27, 2020). A multivariable logistic regression analysis revealed the sociodemographic factors that might influence the behavior of reading emergency alert text messages. A hierarchical linear regression model estimated the associations between reading emergency alert text messages for each precautionary behavior practiced against COVID-19. Additionally, the indirect effects of reading the text messages on each precautionary behavior via psychological factors (ie, perceived risk and response efficacy) were calculated. All data were weighted according to the 2019 Korea census data.

Results

Overall, 49.2% (487/990) of the participants reported that they always read emergency alert text messages and visited the linked website to obtain more information. Factors such as female sex (odds ratio [OR] 1.68, 95% CI 1.28-2.21) and older age (30-39 years: OR 2.02, 95% CI 1.25-3.28; 40-49 years: OR 2.84, 95% CI 1.80-4.47; 50-59 years: OR 3.19, 95% CI 2.01-5.06; 60 years and above: OR 3.12, 95% CI 2.00-4.86 versus 18-29 years) were identified to be associated with a higher frequency of reading the text messages. Participants who always read the text messages practiced wearing facial masks (β=.074, P=.01) more frequently than those who did not. In terms of social distancing, participants who reported they always read the text messages avoided crowded places (β=.078, P=.01) and canceled or postponed social gatherings (β=.103, P<.001) more frequently than those who did not read the text messages. Furthermore, reading text messages directly and indirectly affected practicing precautionary behaviors, as the mediation effect of response efficacy between reading text messages and practicing preventive behaviors was significant.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that emergency alert text messages sent to individuals' mobile phones are timely and effective strategies for encouraging preventive behavior in public. Sending emergency alert text messages to provide the public with accurate and reliable information could be positively considered by the health authorities, which might reduce the negative impact of infodemics.
Determinants of Knowledge About Dietary Supplements Among Polish Internet Users: Nationwide Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Karbownik Michał Seweryn , Horne Robert , Paul Ewelina , Kowalczyk Edward , Szemraj Janusz
Published: February 2021

Background

An accurate understanding of dietary supplements (DS) is a prerequisite for informed decisions regarding their intake. However, there is a need for studies on this understanding among the public based on validated research tools.

Objective

This study aims to assess the knowledge about DS among Polish internet users with no medical education and to identify its determinants and design an appropriate predictive model.

Methods

The study protocol was prospectively registered with a statistical analysis plan. Polish users of a web-based health service and a social networking service were administered a survey consisting of the recently developed questionnaire on knowledge about DS, the questionnaire on trust in advertising DS, the beliefs about medicines questionnaire, and several other health-related single-item measures and sociodemographic questions. The results were subjected to general linear modeling.

Results

A total of 6273 participants were included. Of the 17 yes or no questions in the questionnaire of knowledge about DS, the mean number of correct responses was 9.0 (95% CI 8.9-9.1). Health service users performed worse than social networking users by 2.3 points (95% CI 2.1-2.5) in an analysis adjusted for potential confounders. Internet users had fewer true beliefs about DS if they presented higher trust in their advertising (adjusted β=−.37; 95% CI −.39 to −.34), used DS (adjusted β=−.14; 95% CI −.17 to −.12), experienced their positive effect (adjusted β=−.16; 95% CI −.18 to −.13), were older or younger than 35 years (adjusted β=−.14; 95% CI −.17 to −.12), expressed interest in the topic of DS (adjusted β=−.10; 95% CI −.13 to −.08), reported getting information about the products from friends (adjusted β=−.13; 95% CI −.15 to −.11), and believed that medicines are harmful (adjusted β=−.12; 95% CI −.15 to −.10). The proposed 5-predictor model could explain 31.2% of the variance in knowledge about DS. The model appeared resistant to overfitting and was able to forecast most of the observed associations.

Conclusions

Polish internet users with no medical education exhibit some false beliefs regarding DS. Trusting the advertising of DS appears to conflict with knowledge about them. There is an urgent need for effective web-based educational campaigns on DS and the promotion of advertising literacy. After the proposed predictive model is externally validated, it may help identify the least informed target audience.
A Novel Virtual Reality Assessment of Functional Cognition: Validation Study (Preprint)
Authors: Porffy Lilla Alexandra , Mehta Mitul A , Patchitt Joel , Boussebaa Celia , Brett Jack , D’Oliveira Teresa , Mouchlianitis Elias , Shergill Sukhi S
Published: February 2021

BACKGROUND

Cognitive deficits are present in several neuropsychiatric disorders, including Alzheimer disease, schizophrenia, and depression. Assessments used to measure cognition in these disorders are time-consuming, burdensome, and have low ecological validity. To address these limitations, we developed a novel virtual reality shopping task—VStore.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to establish the construct validity of VStore in relation to the established computerized cognitive battery, Cogstate, and explore its sensitivity to age-related cognitive decline.

METHODS

A total of 142 healthy volunteers aged 20-79 years participated in the study. The main VStore outcomes included verbal recall of 12 grocery items, time to collect items, time to select items on a self-checkout machine, time to make the payment, time to order coffee, and total completion time. Construct validity was examined through a series of backward elimination regression models to establish which Cogstate tasks, measuring attention, processing speed, verbal and visual learning, working memory, executive function, and paired associate learning, in addition to age and technological familiarity, best predicted VStore performance. In addition, 2 ridge regression and 2 logistic regression models supplemented with receiver operating characteristic curves were built, with VStore outcomes in the first model and Cogstate outcomes in the second model entered as predictors of age and age cohorts, respectively.

RESULTS

Overall VStore performance, as indexed by the total time spent completing the task, was best explained by Cogstate tasks measuring attention, working memory, paired associate learning, and age and technological familiarity, accounting for 47% of the variance. In addition, with λ=5.16, the ridge regression model selected 5 parameters for VStore when predicting age (mean squared error 185.80, SE 19.34), and with λ=9.49 for Cogstate, the model selected all 8 tasks (mean squared error 226.80, SE 23.48). Finally, VStore was found to be highly sensitive (87%) and specific (91.7%) to age cohorts, with 94.6% of the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings suggest that VStore is a promising assessment that engages standard cognitive domains and is sensitive to age-related cognitive decline.

CLINICALTRIAL
Hydrotreatment of Cellulose-Derived Bio-Oil Using Copper and/or Zinc Catalysts Supported on Mesoporous Silica-Alumina Synthesized from Lapindo Mud and Catfish Bone
Authors: Swasdika Fahri , Trisunaryanti Wega , Falah Iip Izul
Published: February 2021

Catalysts comprising copper and/or zinc supported on mesoporous silica-alumina (MSA) with a high Si/Al ratio were prepared by wet impregnation method. This study investigated the preparation, characterization, and catalytic application of the prepared catalysts for hydrotreatment cellulose-derived bio-oil. The wet impregnation was performed by directly dispersing Cu(NO3)2·3H2O and/or Zn(NO3)2·4H2O aqueous solution into MSA, followed by calcination and reduction under H2 gas stream. The acidity test revealed that metal addition on MSA support increases the acidity of catalysts. During hydrotreatment of cellulose-derived bio-oil CuZn/MSA with total acidity, copper loading, zinc loading, and specific surface area of 24.86 mmol g–1, 5.23 wt.%, 3.15 wt.%, and 170.77 m2 g–1, respectively, exhibited the best performance compared to other prepared catalysts with 90.49 wt.% conversion of liquid product.
Fabrication and Performance of a Microbial Fuel Cell: Utilization of Modified Nafion Membrane with Carbon Powder as Separator and Bio-Anode
Authors: Charef Mustapha Abdeldjabar , Kebaili Hakima , Kameche Mostefa , Innocent Christophe
Published: February 2021

A Microbial Fuel Cell (MFC) was conceived by using garden soil as a source to culture. It was then utilized as a bio-catalyst to decompose waste organic matter, reduce pollution from the soil, and produce energies. The MFC was composed of a bio-anode inoculated with a mixture of garden compost leachate and an abiotic stainless steel cathode. Besides, the bio-anode consisted of a Nafion membrane modified with carbon. The microorganisms agglomerated under polarization and formed electroactive bio-film onto bio-anode. In the preliminary test of MFC, potassium hexacyanoferrate has been utilized as catholyte, to enhance the reduction of proton and electrons resulting in a higher voltage. However, this electrolyte is toxic and oxidized rapidly, thus substituted by the hydrochloric acid. The results showed that the MFC with modified Nafion, gave relatively high current-density 379 mA/m2 in two days, whereas the conventional biofuel cell without modification attained the current-density 292 mA/m2 in four days. Nevertheless, both cells yielded almost the same current density of 20 mA/m2 during 60 days. Although it has been used for a long time, the modified Nafion has not been corroded and preserved its physicochemical properties.
Polyvinyl Alcohol Food Packaging System Comprising Green Synthesized Silver Nanoparticles
Authors: Abdelhamid Ahmed Elsayed , Yousif Eman AboBakr Ali , El-Saidi Manal Mohamed Talaat , El-Sayed Ahmed Ali
Published: February 2021

Green synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using aqueous Moringa extract and their incorporation in polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) as food packaging materials have been performed. The prepared nanoparticles were characterized via Ultraviolet-visible spectra and transmission electron microscope, and the results revealed the formation of silver nanoparticles in a semi-spherical shape with an average size ranged from 2 to 5 nm. The addition of different ratios of the nanoparticles onto the PVA matrix and their crosslinking via citric acid to obtain nanocomposite sheets were performed. The nanocomposite sheets were characterized using FT-IR, UV-Vis, and TGA. In addition, their mechanical properties were evaluated. Water vapor permeability rate and water content were also determined. The composite sheets showed good thermal and optical performance. Antibacterial activities of the prepared nanocomposite sheets were evaluated, and the results exhibited good resistance to bacterial growth.
Microwave-Assisted Preparation of Zinc-Doped β-Tricalcium Phosphate for Orthopedic Applications
Authors: Saleh Ali Taha , Alameri Dheyaa
Published: February 2021

A novel two-step methodology delivering zinc into the structure of β-tricalcium phosphate (β-TCP) has been investigated. Incorporating wet precipitation of calcium-deficient apatite [Ca9-xZnx(HPO4)(PO4)5(OH)] (x = 0.00–1.00 mol) using a microwave-assisted process followed by two-hour calcination at 1000 °C has been conducted to generate a ratio of 1.48 of Zn doped β-TCP. The products were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectrometer, and field emission scanning electron microscope (FESEM). Our results confirmed that the product was crystalline Zn2+-doped β-tricalcium phosphate. The incorporation of Zn+2 into the β-TCP lattice resulted in a shifting of diffraction peaks to higher 2θ values, which were attributed to the substitution of larger-sized Ca+2 ions with smaller-sized Zn2+ ions. A reduction in the intensity of the XRD peaks was also observed due to the reduction in the degree of crystallinity of the samples. Lattice parameters along the a and c-axis showed a gradual decrease in length with an increase in the amount of Zn2+ doping. This decrease was attributed to the replacement of Ca+2 ion by the smaller-sized Zn2+ ions. The microstructure of the powders consisted of microscale aggregates fused together. EDX analysis of all samples showed that the Zn2+ doping had successfully taken place and the amount of Zn2+ present in the samples was in good agreement with the theoretical values.
Stability, Hydrogen Bond Occupancy Analysis and Binding Free Energy Calculation from Flavonol Docked in DAPK1 Active Site Using Molecular Dynamic Simulation Approaches
Authors: Zikri Adi Tiara , Pranowo Harno Dwi , Haryadi Winarto
Published: February 2021

Stability and hydrogen bond occupancy analysis of flavonol derivative docked in DAPK1 have been carried out using molecular dynamics simulation approach. Six flavonol derivatives were docked in DAPK1 as protein target, then continued with molecular dynamics simulation. NVT and NPT ensembles were used to equilibrate the system, followed by 20 ns sampling time for each system. Structural stability and hydrogen bond occupancy analyses were carried out at the NVT ensemble, while free binding energy analysis was done at NPT ensemble. From all compounds used in this work, compound B (5,7-dihydroxy-2-(4-hydroxyphenyl)-6-methoxy-4H-chromen-4-one) has a similar interaction with reference ligands (quercetin, kaempferol, and fisetin), and the most stable complex system has the maximum RMSD around 2 Å. Compound C complex has -48.06 kJ/mol binding free energy score, and it was slightly different from quercetin, kaempferol, and fisetin complexes. Even though complex C has similar binding free energy with the reference compound, complex B shows more stable interactions due to their hydrogen bond and occupancy.
The Study of Quality Evaluation of A Hand Rub (Hand Sanitizer) With Who-Based-Standard Formulation and Percent Reduction of Bacteria (Percentage Kill Bacteria) In Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus (MRSA)
Authors: Subhan Ahmad , Manalu Wasmen , Rahminiwati Min , Darusman Huda Salahudin
Published: February 2021

The pandemic that occurred caused both by COVID-19 (currently occurring), as well as the clone of the methicillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) in the previous period, has really threatened human life. This condition requires materials that can break the chain of transmission from human to human and the environment to human. This study aimed to evaluate the quality of alcohol-based hand rub with WHO-based-standard formulation based on the stability of the formulation, the risk of irritation, and the ability to kill bacteria. Assessment on the presence of rancidity, clarity, discoloration, final alcohol content, and skin irritation risk was done to know the quality of product formulation. A bacterial Methicillin resistance staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) was used to assess the percentage of bacterial killing power. The selected bacteria were bacteria commonly found in the hospital environment. The results of formulation stability from four variants of level modification showed that MK.IV has good stability compared to other formulation modifications. In terms of irritation risk, twenty-three selected subjects were generally well tolerated in use. The results of the percentage kill test against MRSA showed that the percentage kill is 99.90% at 1st, 2nd, and 5th minute. The selected manufacturer's product also showed the same percentage kill value at the 1st, 2nd, and 5th minute. The results of the percentage kill test showed that the effective value for each contact time is ≥ 90%.
Antiangiogenesis Activity Study of Awar-Awar Leaf Ethanolic Extract (Ficus Septica Burm. F.) By Chick Chorioallantoic Membrane Method
Authors: Nurhidayati Lailiana Garna , Nugroho Agung Endro , Retnoaji Bambang , Sudarsono Sudarsono , Fakhrudin Nanang
Published: February 2021

Cancer is one of the biggest causes of death after cardiovascular disease. Furthermore, alkaloid content of awar-awar leaf extract (Ficus septica Burm. f.) is reported to exhibit cytotoxic activity in several cancer cells. This research aims to identify the antiangiogenesis activity and potential of awar-awar leaf extract (Ficus septica Burm. f.) on chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) of chicken embryo inducted with basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF). Awar-awar leaf extract was obtained by the maceration method by using ethanol 70%. CAM was cultured in ex ovo and then angiogenesis induced by bFGF and treated by using the concentrated extract of 0.013; 0.00975; 0.0065; and 0.00325 mg/mL. From now on, the observation was done macroscopically and microscopically. Macroscopic observation result shows that an inhibition occurred at the concentration extract of 0.013 mg/mL or equal to 62.30%, 0.00975 mg/mL or equal to 51.37%, 0.0065 mg/mL or equal to 28.42%, and 0.00325 mg/mL or equal to 13.11%. Meanwhile, the microscopic observation result shows that the higher concentration of the extract, the growth of new blood vessels is decreased, demonstrated by the reduced erythrocyte density, parallel blood vessel pattern, and looser cellular density mesenchymal tissue. Moreover, the statistical analysis result shows that the increasing concentration of extract could increase the inhibition of new blood vessel growth (p <0.05). So, awar-awar leaf ethanol extract can be used as an antiangiogenesis agent in CAM of chicken embryo induced with bFGF by ex ovo.
Am Synthesis, Docking Study and In vitro Anticancer Evaluation of Some New Flurbiprofen Derivatives Against MCF-7 and WRL-68 Cell Lines
Authors: Hmood Kasim S. , Kubba Ammar A. Razzak  Mahmood , Al-bayati Redha  I , Saleh Abdulrahman M.
Published: February 2021

A new series of flurbiprofen derivatives containing thiosemicarbazide moiety (3-7)  was  synthesized from flurbiprofen as parent nucleus by  esterification, hydrazide formation, and  heating with different  aryl isothiocyanate substituents, respectively. Flurbiprofen was also treated with thiosemicarbazide in the  presence POCl3 as  a catalyst,   to produce 1,3,4 -thiadiazole -2-amine (8). Treatment of (8) with different aryl isothiocyanates  produced thiourea derivatives (9-12).  Also, the reaction of  (8)  with different benzoyl chloride substituents produced benzamide compounds (13-15). Eventually , treatment of (8)  with  ethyl acetoacetate(EAA) produced [1,3,4]thiadiazolo[3,2-a]pyrimidin-7-one (16) .The new compounds were  characterized by spectroscopic techniques :FTIR,  1HNMR, and CHNS analysis. A molecular docking  study for  the  synthesized compounds (3-16), against the Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor receptor (VEGFR-2) was applied   and  it  indicated  that compounds 4,7,13, and 15,exhibited the optimum binding energy of     -6.77, -6.12,-6.68, and -6.43 kcal/mol, respectively. Target compounds were  also assessed  for their  in vitro anticancer effects  in a cell-line study. All  of the compounds tested  showed  the most plausible anticancer activity, compared to a positive control(Sorafenib), using in vitro  MTT cytotoxic assay ,against human breast tumor (MCF-7), and normal WRL-68 cell line. The in vitro results revealed that compounds 4,5,10,11,13, and 15 exhibited the highest inhibitory activity at their IC50 concentrations, against MCF-7 cell lines, as follows (122.7,113.9,95,7. 109.1,40.32 and 112.29µg/mL, respectively. While their cytotoxic effect against normal WRL-68 cell line at  their IC50 concentrations, as follow 210.2, 181.3 ,151.7,278.7,80.28, and 236 µg/mL, respectively, therefore,  such compounds were considered more selective toward MCF-7 than normal WRL-68,and their selectivity index (SI): 1.71,1.59,1.59 ,2.55 ,1.99 , and 2.10,respectively . Among the synthesized compounds, the compound 15 was chosen to screen its effect in vitro through multi-parameter cytotoxic assay against MCF-7 breast cancer implemented in High Content Screening (ArrayScan XTI, Thermo Scientific),which  could be taken in consideration as a starting point for the  development  of new anticancer drugs
KINETIC PARAMETER ANALYSIS OF MYELOPEROXIDASE IN THE PRESENCE OF SOME COSUSBTRATES IN SALIVA OF NEWBORN AT RISK OF SEPSIS
Authors: YUNANTO ARI , HARTOYO EDI , THALIB ISKANDAR , PUTRI NIARSARI ANUGRAHING , SUHARTONO EKO
Published: February 2021

Objective: During infection like sepsis, myeloperoxidase (MPO) enzyme will be generated from the neutrophil. This enzyme will catalyze theoxidation of halide or pseudohalide (Cl, I-, SCN, and Br-) using hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). However, the mechanism by which oxidation of these severalcosubstrates in neonatal sepsis is unknown. Here, we have compared the kinetic parameter of MPO in saliva of newborn at risk of sepsis with orwithout the presence of these several cosubstrates.Methods: In this experiment, saliva samples were taken from newborn in health (n = 20) and risk of sepsis (n = 20). Saliva samples from each groupthen homogenized and divided into four groups. Group 1 served as control which contains saliva+H2O2; Group 2 contains saliva+H2O2+Cl−; Group 3contains saliva+H2O2+I−; and Group 4 contains saliva+H2O2+SCN−. After 1 h incubation, the kinetic parameters (Km and Vmax) were analyzed.Results: The result shows that in sepsis condition, compared without the presence of some cosubstrates, it seems the addition of some cosubstratewill increase the affinity between MPO, H2O2, and the cosubstrate. Between these three cosubstrates, it seems in sepsis condition MPO will oxidize Cl−.Conclusion: In sepsis condition, MPO works by a common mechanism, that is, oxidizing Cl− to hypochlorous acid than another cosubstrate.
PHYTOCHEMICAL COMPOSITION AND ANTIINFLAMMATORY ACTIVITY OF NELUMBO NUCIFERA GAERTN
Authors: KHOBJAI WARACHATE , WISIDSRI NAKUNTWALAI , JARMKOM KHEMJIRA , TECHAOEI SURACHAI
Published: February 2021

Objective: Inflammation is a process of injuries caused by physical, chemical, and biological factors. Nitric oxide (NO) plays an important role in theregulation of various pathological and pathophysiological processes. Overproduction of NO induces tissue damage associated with acute and chronicinflammations. This study was conducted to determine the phytochemical composition and the NO inhibitory properties of Nelumbo nucifera extractsin lipopolysaccharide(LPS)-stimulated macrophage cell line.Methods: The dried leaf, stalk, and flower materials of roseum plenum and album plenum (AP) were extracted with 95% ethanol solvents. Thephytochemical compounds of the extraction were analysed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. The cytotoxic assay of extracts againstmacrophage cells was conducted using resazurin. The NO was determined using LPS-induced RAW264.7 cells to measure inhibitory activity of extracton the production of NO.Results: The extracts from Lotus, which exhibited the non-cytotoxic to the RAW264.7 cells. The AP-stalk extracts were capable to reduce the NO levelin LPS-activated RAW264.7 cells. GC-MS analysis of AP-stalk extraction revealed pharmacologically active compounds.Conclusion: The results conduct that the AP-stalk extract effectively inhibited the NO production and may be useful in preventing inflammatorydiseases mediated by excessive production of NO. Bio-active phytoconstituents from AP stalk extract could potentially be used for anti-inflammation.These data also suggest that AP-stalk extract may serve as a good indicator of the pharmacological activities of medicinal plants.
PHYTONUTRIENT SCREENING BY GAS CHROMATOGRAPHY–MASS SPECTROMETRY AND ANTI-AGING PROPERTIES OF GLYCOSMIS PENTAPHYLLA (RETZ.) DC. (SOM-CHUEN) EXTRACTS
Authors: DUMRONGPHUTTIDECHA THISAKORN , KHOBJAI WARACHATE , TECHAEOI SURACHAI , JARMKOM KHEMJIRA , THUNGMUNGMEE SURADWADEE
Published: February 2021

Objective: The aims of this study were to screen the phytonutrient constituents and investigate their anti-aging property of leaves and bark ofGlycosmis pentaphylla (Retz.) DC. (GP).Methods: GP is the medicinal plant which used as traditional medicine. Glycosmis pentaphylla leaves (GPL) and Glycosmis pentaphylla bark (GPB) ofGP were extracted with ethanol. The gas chromatography–mass spectrometry was used for phytonutrients analysis. The anti-aging properties wereperformed using ABTS assay, deoxyribose degradation assay, bovine serum albumin (BSA)-fructose model, and matrix metalloproteinase 1 (MMP-1)inhibitory activity.Results: The important phytonutrients of GPL were α-tocopherol, linolenic acid, squalene, stigmasterol, and β-amyrin and for GPB were α-tocopherol,phytol, campesterol, stigmasterol, dictamine, and γ-sitosterol. The percentage inhibition of GPL and GPB extracts at various concentrations wasbetween 16.57–76.05 and 20.66-78.81 by ABTS assay, 68.24–90.06 and 73.83–96.64% by deoxyribose degradation assay, 4.24–99.98 and 54.81–99.94 by BSA-fructose model, and 6.31–81.55 and 1.06–74.45 by MMP-1 inhibitory activity, respectively.Conclusion: Leaves and bark extracts of GP (Retz.) DC. are good sources of important phytonutrients and have the potential in anti-aging property.
EVALUATION OF ANTIDIABETIC ACTIVITY OF ZANTHOXYLUM OVALIFOLIUM LEAF EXTRACTS
Authors: K. ARUN , J. H. VIRUPAKSHA
Published: February 2021

Objective: The present study was aimed to investigate the antidiabetic activity of ethanolic and aqueous extract of Zanthoxylum ovalifolium on alloxan induced diabetic rat model in rats.

Methods: The leaves of Zanthoxylum ovalifolium were evaluated for antidiabetic activity by using alloxan induced diabetic model in diabetic rats. Diabetes was induced by single intraperitoneal injection of alloxan (100 mg/kg) and rats were treated orally with test extracts, standard drug (glibenclamide 5 mg/kg) and vehicle for 21 d. The hypoglycemic effects and lipid profile of diabetic rats were assessed using diagnostic kits. Finally, histopathological studies were carried out for pancreas.

Results: The acute toxicity studies revealed at the dose of 2000 mg/kg (b. w) of Zanthoxylum ovalifolium for ethanol and aqueous extract were found to be safe. A significant reduction (p<0.001) in blood glucose was observed in diabetic rats treated with different doses of extracts compared to untreated diabetic rats. The drug possesses a good hyperlipidemic effect by normalizing the lipid parameters. This was evidenced by histopathological studies; both glibenclamide and 400 mg/kg of Ethanolic extract does appear to be regulated diabetes at the cellular level, resulting in the restoration of near normal architecture pancreatic islet of langerhans.

Conclusion: It can be concluded from our research findings that ethanolic and aqueous extract of Zanthoxylum ovalifoliumat high dose (400 mg/kg) exhibited significant antihyperglycemic activity than extract at low dose (200 mg/kg) in alloxan induced diabetic rats. These extracts also showed improvement in parameters like lipid profile as well as regeneration β-cells in the pancreas and so might be of value in diabetes treatment.
Credit scoring with an ensemble deep learning classification methods – comparison with tradicional methods
Authors: Radović Ognjen , Marinković Srđan , Radojičić Jelena
Published: February 2021

Credit scoring attracts special attention of financial institutions. In recent years, deep learning methods have been particularly interesting. In this paper, we compare the performance of ensemble deep learning methods based on decision trees with the best traditional method, logistic regression, and the machine learning method benchmark, support vector machines. Each method tests several different algorithms. We use different performance indicators. The research focuses on standard datasets relevant for this type of classification, the Australian and German datasets. The best method, according to the MCC indicator, proves to be the ensemble method with boosted decision trees. Also, on average, ensemble methods prove to be more successful than SVM.
POPULATION AGEING AND WELFARE DISSIMILARITIES WITHIN THE EUROPEAN UNION: A NEW APPROACH BASED ON CLUSTER ANALYSIS
Authors: Cristea Mirela , Noja Graţiela Georgiana , Thalassinos Yannis
Published: February 2021

The research aims to identify several dissimilarities between the European Union Member States (EU-27 MS) in terms of welfare and labour market dimensions under the sheer implications of the ageing phenomenon. The quantitative research methodology emphasizes the cluster analysis based on the Ward method, performed for the year 2018. Main results denote that only two countries (Denmark and Sweden) registered soaring performances, especially for the labour market credentials (particularly the employment rate and active policies). Other 10 EU-27 MS accounted medium performances in terms of well-being, but also the lowest achievements as regards the old dependency rate, the employment rate of persons aged 55-64 and the birth rate. This paper brings to the fore the keen need to redesign specific policies and tailored strategies by the responsible authorities and business representatives across the EU, in order to enhance achievements and new solutions for the difficulties brought by population ageing, with spillover effects on the labour market integration of older employees and overall economic welfare. The study stands out through the new integrative approach based on cluster analysis that underlines the dissimilarities between the EU member states, and the features of each group of countries, in a pre-settled framework, thus grasping the difficulties, but also the opportunities faced in terms of ageing and economic welfare.
La economía de la pandemia: efectos, medidas y perspectivas económicas ante la pandemia de la COVID-19 en el sector manufacturero de México
Authors: Torres Preciado Víctor Hugo
Published: February 2021

El objetivo de esta investigación consiste en analizar los efectos que algunas medidas de contención de la pandemia de la COVID 19 pudieron ejercer en el funcionamiento de la economía mexicana. En particular, mediante un modelo económico-epidemiológico de vectores autoregresivos que busca aproximar la secuencia de efectos observados ante el brote de contagios, se analizan los efectos dinámicos de variaciones inesperadas en variables económicas clave. Se enfatiza la respuesta del consumo, empleo y producción través de un análisis contrafactual a partir del mes en que inicia la pandemia en México. Los resultados con información del sector manufacturero, sugieren que el consumo es una variable que incentivada mediante medidas económicas y protocolos de seguridad sanitaria adecuados, puede contribuir a la estabilización de la economía. Un resultado notable sugiere que los brotes de enfermedades con un daño potencial a la salud humana similares a la COVID 19, tendría efectos negativos directos en la economía.

 
TERRITORIAL STRUCTURE OF FUEL AND ENERGY COMPLEX OF AMUR REGION: CURRENT STATE AND DEVELOPMENT PROSPECTS
Authors:   T.A. MIROSHNICHENKO Amur State University, MIROSHNICHENKO T.A. , KOZLOV A.N. ,   A.N. KOZLOV Amur State University
Published: February 2021

In the monograph at the level of the subject of the Russian Federation, a number of theoretical and applied problems of the economic and geographical plan are set and solved. The Amur region is considered in the work as a "region of opportunities" related to the availability of excess electricity and the implementation of large investment projects in the field of industry, transport and space technologies. The territorial structure of the fuel and energy complex of the region is presented in conjunction with the territorial structure of the economy and the location of the population; a typology of municipalities of the Amur Region on electric consumption was compiled. It is intended for researchers, employees of state authorities and management bodies, energy companies, university professors, graduate students and students of economic and energy specialties.
El malestar de la descivilización: creatividad como principio de realidad
Authors: Capdequi Celso Sánchez
Published: February 2021

el objetivo de este trabajo pretende insistir en las luces y las sombras de la creatividad en las sociedades tardomodernas. Hoy es el núcleo de la normalidad social. La creatividad es el nuevo principio de realidad. Su emergencia se explica a través de la victoria de Eros sobre Prometeo, como ya sugirió Marcuse contra Freud. Sin embargo, su impulso hiperexpresivo y emocional representa la hegemonía de la visión episódica frente al papel de la narrativa mítica y la reflexión teórica como partes esenciales de una imagen articulada de la creatividad. La clase creativa encarna una versión parcial e intrascendente que no ve más allá del efecto inmediato. Sólo una creatividad integral garantiza la posibilidad de producir afectos, pero también leyes, normas y acuerdos sociales.