bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Methodology for determination of petrographic structures using the MIU-5M device
Authors: Zakharova A. A. , Voytekhovsky Yu. L. , Kompanchenko A. A. , Neradovsky Yu. N.
Published: May 2022

The authors develop a statistical method for determining the structures of rocks. A mathematically rigorous definition of the petrographic structure through the probabilities of binary intergranular contacts is proposed. The petrographic structure is defined as an invariant aspect of rock organization algebraically expressed by the canonical diagonal form of symmetric matrix of contact probabilities and visualized by structural indicatrices - 2 order surfaces. A consistent nomenclature of petrographic structures has been proposed. Earlier the method showed itself well in describing the structures of ijolites and urtites of the Khibiny Mountains, as well as amphibolites of the islands of Keretsky Archipelago (the White Sea). Mass application of the method is restrained by the routine procedure of calculating the probabilities of intergranular contacts in petrographic thin sections under a microscope. The problem of modern optical structure analyzers is assignment different sections of the same anisotropic mineral to different minerals, and separation blocks of a mineral individual to different individuals. The paper describes the experience of using the domestic MIU-5M device for scanning petrographic thin sections by the linear method of Rosival. The combination of visual control and minimum automation of the process allows us to achieve convergence of the structural types with results obtained by manual processing of image of petrographic thin section. Additionally, thin sections have been studied, for which the structural types differ with various methods of counting. It has been revealed that the presence of poikilitic ingrowths and features of the mineral composition (the existence of hypergene changes or minerals with similar optical properties) affect the statistics of probabilities. Recommendations are given on the selection of the scanning step depending on the grain size in the studied rock.
Spin conductivity of the XXZ chain in the antiferromagnetic massive regime
Authors: Göhmann Frank , Kozlowski Karol , Sirker Jesko , Suzuki Junji
Published: May 2022

We present a series representation for the dynamical two-point
function of the local spin current for the XXZ chain in the
antiferromagnetic massive regime at zero temperature. From this
series we can compute the correlation function with very high
accuracy up to very long times and large distances. Each term in
the series corresponds to the contribution of all scattering
states of an even number of excitations. These excitations can
be interpreted in terms of an equal number of particles and holes.
The lowest term in the series comprises all scattering states
of one hole and one particle. This term determines the long-time
large-distance asymptotic behaviour which can be obtained
explicitly from a saddle-point analysis. The space-time
Fourier transform of the two-point function of currents
at zero momentum gives the optical spin conductivity of
the model. We obtain highly accurate numerical estimates for
this quantity by numerically Fourier transforming our data.
For the one-particle, one-hole contribution, equivalently
interpreted as a two-spinon contribution, we obtain an exact
and explicit expression in terms of known special functions.
For large enough anisotropy, the two-spinon contribution carries
most of the spectral weight, as can be seen by calculating
the f-sum rule.
Virtual leadership as a development opportunity in business context
Authors: Cordova-Buiza Franklin , Aguirre-Parra Pamela , Gustavo Garcia-Jimenez Moises , Carolina Martinez-Torres Diana
Published: May 2022

In the twenty-first century and under the framework of the fourth industrial revolution, virtual leadership emerged as a new way to direct and lead companies and organizations in the public and private sectors. In this regard, it should be mentioned that this situation is the result of the profound effects and changes of the digital revolution in the business world, which are a consequence of the globalization process and the rise of the so-called Information Technology and Telecommunications (ICT). Therefore, the objective of this narrative literature review is to know what has been written about virtual leadership between 2016 and 2021. As a result, 58 sources of information were reviewed, their level of scientific evidence was evaluated, and opportunities for growth and development in business and commercial activities were identified. In addition, a business management alternative to mitigate the impacts of the new Covid-19 (SARS-CoV-2) pandemic was analyzed. Hence, this paper is highly relevant, as it also considers elements such as personalized communication and digital tools. In conclusion, it was found that virtual work generates benefits, including time savings and quick contact. However, it presents challenges for leaders, such as the challenge of connectivity, motivation, and collaborators’ commitment.
Analysis on Accounting Conservatism and CSR Disclosures of Indonesian Banks Listed on IDX from 2004 to 2007
Authors: Kurniawan Melissa , Wibowo Daryanto Hesti
Published: May 2022

Disclosing corporate social responsibility (CSR) activities is mandatory in Indonesia as  regulated by the government. This research investigates whether Indonesian companies are internally motivated to voluntarily conduct their social responsibility agenda.  First, this research examines the conservatism in financial reporting practices of Indonesian banks. It also analyzes the relationship between conservatism and CSR disclosure.  Using 21 Indonesian banks that went public in 2003-2007 as sample, this research conducts a content analysis on their financial reports to measure the conservatism and the CSR disclosure index. The findings of this research reveal that Indonesian banks are, on average, conservative in their financial reporting. This research also provides the ranking of the banks under study in terms of conservatism. Further analysis shows that there is no clear evidence to support the relationship between conservatism and the Indonesian banks’ CSR reporting.  Overall, this research concludes that CSR disclosure practices in Indonesian banks are driven by government regulation. This research does not find any internal motive of the sample banks in disclosing their CSR activities voluntarily.
Analysis of Corporate Governance and Relative Efficiency of Public Companies Listed in Indonesian Stock Exchange
Authors: Liputri Olivia , Tirok Junius
Published: May 2022

This research aims to investigate the relationship between corporate governance and company’s relative efficiency. The research sample is 34 public companies listed in Indonesian Stock Exchange. A modified Jones (1991) model is used to detect the earnings management practice as a proxy to corporate governance. In regard with the efficiency score, this research employs Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA). This research find that the there is no significant relationship between corporate governance and its efficiency.
DESIGNING VALUE ADDED TAX POLICY ON PEER-TO-PEER LENDING IN INDONESIA
Authors: Kartiko Nafis Dwi , Rachmi Ismi Fathia
Published: May 2022

Fintech is one of the newest business models in finance that take advantage of technological advances. One form of fintech in Indonesia is peer-to-peer lending. Based on the 1984 VAT Law, one service not subject to value-added tax is financial services. The reason globally for this is the difficulty in determining the tax base. However, according to the authors, these reasons cannot be accepted by considering the peer-to-peer lending business model. The authors provide reasons based on classical theory and existing empirical facts. This research outlines the urgency of establishing laws at the level of laws on fintech and the imposition of value-added taxes on peer-to-peer lending in Indonesia. In conclusion, the authors suggest that the government needs to (1) encourage the formation of laws and regulations at the level of the law on fintech to include criminal provisions such as laws in other financial institutions; (2) imposing a value-added tax on peer-to-peer lending, and (3) We encourage tax authorities to issue implementing regulations related to the imposition of value-added tax on peer-to-peer lending in Indonesia.
THE EFFECT OF CORPORATE GOVERNANCE MECHANISM, STAKEHOLDER PRESSURE, AND PROFITABILITY ON INTEGRATED REPORTING
Authors: Lasdi Lodovicus , Oematan Elisabeth Listiyani
Published: May 2022

This study aims to examine the effect of corporate governance mechanisms, stakeholder pressure, and profitability on integrated reporting, with firm size as a control variable. The research object used is a manufacturing company listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) for the period 2017-2020 with purposive sampling method as a sample collection method. The data analysis technique used is multiple linear analysis. The results showed that independent commissioners and firm size had a positive effect on integrated reporting. Meanwhile, the audit committee has a negative effect on integrated reporting. In addition, stakeholder pressure and profitability are not proven to have an effect on integrated reporting.
Tuberculosis de muñeca, una infección poco frecuente
Authors: Cruz Choappa Rodrigo , Carvallo-Maturana Javier , Espinoza-Rojas Jorge , López-Mora Eduardo
Published: May 2022

La tuberculosis es una infección que afecta a millones de personas en el mundo cada año, provocando una alta carga de morbimortalidad. La localización pulmonar corresponde a más del 80 % de los casos. Su diagnóstico y tratamiento aún representa un desafío para los clínicos, especialmente en sus localizaciones extrapulmonares. Presentamos un caso de tuberculosis de muñeca izquierda, la cual fue diagnosticada con biopsia de hueso y tratada de forma exitosa con cuatro drogas por seis meses.
Efficient sequestration of boron from liquid phase by amidoxime-functionalized poly(acrylonitrile-co-acrylic acid): experimental and modelling analyses
Authors: Adeyi Abel Adekanmi , Jamil Siti Nurul Ain Md. , Abdullah Luqman Chuah , Ibrahim Nik Nor Liyana Nik , Nourouzi Mohsen
Published: May 2022

This study aims to produce amidoxime-modified poly(acrylonitrile-co-acrylic acid) using an optimized method and to investigate the performance of amidoxime-modified poly(acrylonitrile-co-acrylic acid) on the adsorption of boron ions in batch operations. Batch adsorption was conducted at the physiochemical parameters of pH, adsorbent dosage, and initial boron concentration. The isotherms and kinetics of adsorption data were studied at various initial boron concentrations. The renewed synthesis process gave a production yield of 77%, and the conversion of nitrile group to amidoxime was 78%. The adsorption reached its optimum point at pH = 8, adsorbent dosage = 4 g·L−1, and initial adsorbent concentration at 40 ppm. The best model fits for isotherm adsorption was the Sips model with heterogeneity factor (n) = 0.7611. In the kinetic study, the adsorption data fitted best with pseudo-second-order model. The synthesized polymeric adsorbent could be recycled with little decline in its boron entrapment capacities. Hence, amidoxime-modified poly(acrylonitrile-co-acrylic acid) exhibited high adsorption capacity and could be potentially explored as an alternative to commercial resin in the removal of boron from wastewater.
Liquid-liquid extraction of copper(II), zinc(II), cadmium(II), and lead(II) from aqueous solution and sewage effluent using phenoxy-amino ligands
Authors: Nyamato George S. , Wambugu Kelvin , Kiratu John , Ojwach Stephen O.
Published: May 2022

The phenoxy-amino ligands 2-(((2-(diethylamino)ethyl)amino)methyl)phenol (L1) and 2-(((2-mercaptoethyl)amino)methyl)-phenol (L2) were studied as model chelating agents for liquid-liquid extraction of copper(II), zinc(II), cadmium(II), and lead(II) cations from water using dichloromethane-water biphasic system. The relative affinities of these chelating ligands for copper(II), zinc(II), cadmium(II), and lead(II) by liquid-liquid extraction were found to be in the order copper(II)> zinc(II) > cadmium(II) > lead(II). The ligands L1 and L2 showed binding efficiencies ranging from 78%–97% for copper(II), 75%–91% for zinc(II), 76%–92% for cadmium(II), and 59%–67% for lead(II). The extraction protocol was successfully applied to sewage effluent.
Oportunidades y capacidades. Movilidad intrageneracional y desigualdad en México
Authors: Huerta Wong Juan Enrique , Ibarra López Ignacio , Espinosa Montiel Rocío
Published: May 2022

Este trabajo analiza la movilidad social intrageneracional y su relación con distintas dimensiones de desigualdad. Usando datos representativos para la población mexicana, se analiza la relación de la movilidad social con dos fuentes de desigualdad: oportunidades y capacidades. La posibilidad de movilidad intrageneracional en México es muy baja, en particular para las mujeres. Un hallazgo principal es que el índice de desarrollo humano de salud previene la movilidad descendente y promueve la movilidad ascendente, en especial entre las mujeres. Se extienden recomendaciones en materia de política pública para la promoción de una mayor movilidad intrageneracional, incluyendo la ampliación de la cobertura y la mejora de la calidad educativa, así como la ampliación de la red de protección social y la disminución del efecto diferenciado de los procesos de procreación y crianza de la progenie. Este trabajo aporta, por vez primera, evidencia del efecto de la desigualdad de oportunidades y capacidades en la movilidad intrageneracional.
Epidemiological study to determine factors associated with dental caries in schoolers
Authors: Camila Castro  , Carolina Dea Bruzamolin  , João Gilberto Duda  , João Armando Brancher  , Eduardo Pizzatto
Published: May 2022

Dental caries is a large problem affecting all population. In Brazil, caries prevalence has decreased over the last years, but it is still a public health issue requiring frequent evaluation and care by dentists. Objective: To evaluate the oral health conditions of schoolers aged 5-12 years relating them with socioeconomic and demographic determinants. Material and methods: The children were examined by a previously calibrated examiner to obtain DMF and dmf scores. The parents answered a questionnaire regarding to the socioeconomic condition. Prior to the examinations, the parents signed a free and clarified consent form and only their children were evaluated. The results were analyzed descriptively and by Chi-square test, at significance level of p<0.05. Results: The sample (n=111) showed a mean age of 7+1.7 years (mean + standard deviation), composed of 58 boys and 58 girls. 66.6% of the sample exhibited dmf values = 0, while 102 schoolers had DMF values = 0. With regard to the parents’ education level, 78.37% of the mothers had more than 9 years of education and 43.34% of the fathers had 9 to 11 years of study. Concerning to family income, 36.93% of the families presented mean income of 1-3 minimum wages (R$ 788.00 to R$ 2,364.00). No statistically significant differences (p≤0.05) were seen between caries rates vs. parents’ education and caries rates vs. family income. Conclusion: 5-12 year schoolers showed low dmf and DMF values, suggesting that parents’ education and income might have influenced on the results. Further studies are necessary to understand/assess the predisposing factors to dental caries development.
Crown lengthening surgery and transurgical restoration
Authors: Isabô Hayná Gomes Tortoriello  , Luana Kelle Batista Moura  , Raphael Camargo Costa  , Milena Salete de Souza Pinto  , Vivian Colucci  , Andrea Marcia Marcaccini
Published: May 2022

The crown lengthening surgery and the transurgical restoration are alternative procedures to enable the restoration of teeth inaccessible to the conventional techniques and restore the lost biological space. Objective: This study aimed to present clinically the reconstruction of a right maxillary second molar through crown lengthening surgery associated with transurgical restoration with composite resin in a patient treated in the Integrated Clinics of the University of Ribeirão Preto. Case report: Patient E.H.C.V., female, aged 51 years, attended the dental clinic of the University of Ribeirão Preto. The anamnesis showed a favorable health history and the clinical examination showed great tooth crown destruction of tooth #17. The treatment planning included the crown lengthening periodontal surgery with regularization of alveolar bone on the buccal surface of tooth #17, rubber dam isolation, the restauration of the compromised area with composite resin, and suture in the same session. After 7 days, the sutures were removed and the restoration polished. Conclusion: It can be concluded that the use of this technique is a viable, fast, and satisfactory solution, with good results, favoring the health and aesthetics, returning function and better social life to the patient.
Protein Tyrosine Phosphatase Receptor-type Q: Structure, Activity, and
Implications in Human Disease
Authors: Zhang Wansi , Tang Zhimin , Fan Shipan , Yao Dingjin , Zhang Zhen , Guan Chenxi , Deng Wenxin , Ying Ying
Published: May 2022

Protein tyrosine phosphatase receptor-type Q (PTPRQ), a member of the type III tyrosine
phosphatase receptor (R3 PTPR) family, is composed of three domains, including 18 extracellular
fibronectin type III (FN3) repeats, a transmembrane helix, and a cytoplasmic phosphotyrosine
phosphatase (PTP) domain. PTPRQ was initially identified as a transcript upregulated in glomerular
mesangial cells in a rat model of glomerulonephritis. Subsequently, studies found that PTPRQ has
phosphotyrosine phosphatase and phosphatidylinositol phosphatase activities and can regulate cell
proliferation, apoptosis, differentiation, and survival. Further in vivo studies showed that PTPRQ is
necessary for the maturation of cochlear hair bundles and is considered a potential gene for
deafness. In the recent two decades, 21 mutations in PTPRQ have been linked to autosomal
recessive hearing loss (DFNB84) and autosomal dominant hearing loss (DFNA73). Recent
mutations, deletions, and amplifications of PTPRQ have been observed in many types of cancers,
which indicate that PTPRQ might play an essential role in the development of many cancers. In this
review, we briefly describe PTPRQ structure and enzyme activity and focus on the correlation
between PTPRQ and human disease. A profound understanding of PTPRQ could be helpful in the
identification of new therapeutic targets to treat associated diseases.
Structural Insights into the Role of Pseudouridimycin Binding in
Disruption of Bacterial RNA Polymerase Bridge Helix Conformational
Arrangement
Authors: E. Soliman Mahmoud , H. Rabbad Ali , Agoni Clement
Published: May 2022

Background:

The bridge helix (BH) is a crucial region in bacterial RNA polymerase
(RNAP) catalysis. It plays an essential role in the nucleotide addition cycle (NAC) by performing
many modulated rearrangements and conformational changes. Any changes in the bridge helix conformational
arrangements could perturb the NAC.

Objective:

Pseudouridimycin (PUM) was recently reported as a new RNAP inhibitor. However, the
crucial role of the bridge helix in the inhibitory activity of PUM remains unclear, hence the aim of
this study.

Method:

The PUM interaction and the structural dynamics of bacterial Bridge Helix upon PUM
binding were investigated using various dynamic analysis approaches.

Results:

Besides establishing the importance of the bridge helix residues in the binding of PUM, the
findings of this study revealed that the adjacent binding of PUM induces a stabilized and structurally
rigid bridge helix characterized by a reduction of individual residue flexibility, which could interfere
with its role in the NAC. In addition, a hydrophobic structural rearrangement of the bridge helix
is observed, evidenced by the burial and folding of residues into the hydrophobic core and a switch
in the secondary structure of some regions of the bridge helix from the turn and bend to the alpha
helix. The observed conformational disruption of the bridge helix upon binding of PUM also accounts
for the reported inhibitory prowess and broad-spectrum activity as widely reported.

Conclusion:

We believe findings from this study will further complement current drug discovery
knowledge on disrupting bacterial RNAP machinery.
A Review on Acridines as Antiproliferative Agents
Authors: Rajagopal Kalirajan , Baliwada Aparna , Varakumar Potlapati , Raman Kannan , Byran Gowramma
Published: May 2022

Acridine derivatives have been thoroughly investigated and discovered to have multitarget
qualities, inhibiting topoisomerase enzymes that regulate topological changes in DNA and
interfering with DNA's vital biological function. This article discusses current progress in the
realm of novel 9-substituted acridine heterocyclic compounds, including the structure and structure–
activity connection of the most promising molecules. The IC50 values of the new compounds
against several human cancer cell lines will also be presented in the publication. The review also
looks into the inhibition of topoisomerase by polycyclic aromatic compounds.

Background:

Acridine rings can be found in molecules used in many different areas, including
industry and medicine. Nowadays, acridines with anti-bacterial activity are of research interest
due to decreasing bacterial resistance. Some acridine derivatives showed antimalarial or antiviral
activity. Acridine derivatives were also investigated for anti-tumor activity due to the interaction
with topoisomerase II and DNA base pairs. Considering these possible uses of acridine derivatives,
this work overviewed all significant structure performances for the specific action of these
compounds.

Objective:

The objective of this study is to review the activity of acridines as anti-proliferative
agents.

Design:

This review is designed as acridines acting as topoisomerase I and II inhibitors/ poison,
Acridines on the G-quadraplux interaction, Acridines with metal complexes, Acridines with quinacrine
scaffold, Acridines with sulphur moiety.

Conclusion:

Although introduced in the 19th century, acridine derivatives are still of scientific
interest. In this review, acridine derivatives with various biological activities (antiparasitic, antiviral,
anti-bacterial, and antiproliferative) and their structure-activity relationship analyses are presented.
Although several mechanisms of their action are known, the only important are discussed
here. It can be concluded that the dominant mechanisms are DNA intercalation and interaction
with enzymes.
Intracellular Activity of Poly (DL-Lactide-co-Glycolide) Nanoparticles
Encapsulated with Prothionamide, Pyrazinamide, Levofloxacin, Linezolid,
or Ethambutol on Multidrug-Resistant Mycobacterium tuberculosis
Authors: Xu Jiangping , Jiang Huixian , Li Xiang , Xing Zhenjian , Niu Qun
Published: May 2022

Background:

Multidrug-resistant Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MDR-TB) is a major cause of
death amongst tuberculosis patients. Nanomedicine avoids some limitations of conventional drug treatment
and increases therapeutic efficacy against bacterial infections. However, the effect of anti-TB drug
nanoparticle (NP) compounds in anti-TB regimens against MDR-TB remains unclear.

Objective:

The objective of this article is to prepare levofloxacin, linezolid, ethambutol, prothionamide,
and pyrazinamide encapsulated NPs and to evaluate their therapeutic efficacy against MDR-TB in macrophages.

Methods:

Drug-loaded PLGA NPs were prepared by the multiple emulsion method. The colocalization,
intracellular release, and anti-TB activity of these NPs were investigated on cultured macrophages. The
immune phenotype of the macrophages, including their mitochondrial membrane potential, reactive
oxygen species (ROS), and nitric oxide (NO) production, was evaluated following treatment with NPs
or free drug compounds.

Results:

All drug-loaded PLGA NPs were spherical in shape, 150 to 210 nm in size, and showed
14.22% to 43.51% encapsulation efficiencies and long-duration release. Drug-loaded PLGA NPs were
mainly distributed in the cytoplasm of macrophages, showed high cellular compatibility, and maintained
their concentration for at least 13 days. Compared with the free drug compounds, the number of colonies
after exposure to PLGA NP compounds was significantly less. The enhanced antibacterial activity
of the NP compounds may be due to the enhanced levels of ROS and NO and the increased early apoptosis
stress within M. tuberculosis-infected macrophages additionally.

Conclusion:

The application of PLGA NP compounds not only enhances drug efficacy but also induces
innate bactericidal events in macrophages, confirming this as a promising approach for MDR-TB therapy.
Knockdown of ARL5B Induces Mitochondrial-mediated Apoptosis and Inhibits Glycolysis in Breast Cancer Cells by Activating MDA5 Signaling
Authors: Xu Jinfeng , Dong Fajin , Zhang Lei , Hu Xuqiao , Wu Huaiyu , Tian Hongtian , Zeng Jieying , Song Di , Yang Keen , Chen Jing
Published: May 2022

Aim:

Mitochondria are essential for energy metabolism in the tumor microenvironment and the survival of cancer cells.

Background:

ADP-ribosylation factor–like GTPase 5b (ARL5B) has been found to be associated with mitochondrial dysfunction and breast cancer (BC) progression, but the underlying mechanism needs to be further understood.

Objective:

We investigated the effects of ARL5B on the apoptosis and glycolysis of breast cancer cells and its underlying mechanisms.

Method:

Quantitative reverse transcription-PCR (qRT-PCR) and western blot assays were used to detect the expression of ARL5B in breast cancer tissues and cells. An ARL5B loss-of-function assay was performed to verify its role in BC development.

Results:

ARL5B was upregulated in breast cancer tissues and cell lines. ARL5B knockdown induced apoptosis and activated the mitochondrial pathway in breast cancer cells. Interestingly, the inhibition of ARL5B repressed the aerobic glycolysis of breast cancer cells. The role of ARL5B in breast cancer cells was exerted by mediating the activation of viral RNA sensor MDA5-evoked signaling. Silencing ARL5B triggered MDA5 signaling by upregulating the key proteins involved in the MDA5 pathway. Importantly, MDA5 silencing reversed the effects of ARL5B knockdown on mitochondrial-mediated apoptosis and glycolysis, whereas poly (I:C), as a ligand for MDA5, further enhanced ARL5B knockdown- facilitated mitochondrial apoptosis and the inhibition of glycolysis.

Conclusion:

The knockdown of ARL5B activated MDA5 signaling and thus led to the enhanced mitochondrial- mediated apoptosis and glycolysis inhibition in breast cancer cells. Our study suggested that ARL5B might be a potential therapy target for BC.
Anti-proliferative Activity of Labdane Diterpenes Isolated from Polyalthia cerasoides and their Molecular Interaction Studies
Authors: Aditya Rao Shimoga Janakirama , Mahadevappa Paramesha , Siddappa Ravikumar Y. , Usha BM , Verma Bhupendra
Published: May 2022

Background:

Polyalthia cerasoides is well known for its therapeutic effects and is extensively used by the tribal people of South India and Africa to treat infertility, toothache, inflammation, rheumatism, fever, and to combat stress.

Objective:

In the present research, the anti-proliferative potential of two bioactive compounds isolated from the stem bark of P. cerasoides (Roxb.) Bedd. of the Annonaceae family was investigated.

Method:

The dried stem bark was powdered and subjected to extraction using methanol and further partitioned using petroleum ether. Yellow viscous oil was isolated from the petroleum ether fraction using column and preparative thin-layer chromatography. The chromatographic fractions were characterized using GC-MS. The anti-proliferative effect of the isolated compounds was assessed against HepG2 Cells using MTT- Cytotoxicity test. Furthermore, comparative in-silico docking studies were performed to predict the binding pattern of isolated molecules individually, as well as simultaneously with α, β-tubulin, a critical protein involved in the molecular mechanism of microtubule formation.

Results:

GC-MS analysis of yellow viscous oil from petroleum fraction confirmed the presence of two labdane diterpenes that were identified as 12E-3,4-Seco-labda-4(18),8(17),12,14-tetraen-3-oic acid, and methyl harvadate C by mass fragmentation analysis. The MTT-cytotoxicity assay showed the dose-dependent cytotoxic effect on HepG2 Cells. The comparative docking studies of the isolated compounds exhibited strong interactions with the α, β-tubulin protein.

Conclusion:

The prominent anti-proliferative effect exhibited by the isolated compounds, along with effective binding to α, β-tubulin protein, encourages their future utilization as prominent anti-cancer molecules.
An Interesting Small Molecule Fluorescent Probe for A Narrow Range (12.5~13) pH and DMSO Detection
Authors: Yang Di , Diao Xue-Wen , Liu Ji , Chen Ya-Xin , Luo Ying-Chun , Cai Xiao-Hua
Published: May 2022

Aims:

The development of a sensitive and visual analytical method for detecting and monitoring the change of pH has always attracted great interest because it plays a significant role in chemical reactions, environmental monitoring, and biological systems.

Methods:

In this paper, a simple condensation reaction from readily available substrates 2-hydroxy-1- naphthylaldehyde and malononitrile has been carried out to produce probe L with good aggregationinduced luminescence, and its chemical structure was confirmed by 1H NMR, 13C NMR and ESI-MS.

Objective:

There is a conjugated system containing two electron-withdrawing cyano groups and an electron- donating hydroxyl group in probe L's molecular structure, exhibiting obvious fluorescence intensity and visible color change through intramolecular charge transfer (ICT) under different pH conditions.

Results:

Probe L assumes excellent fluorescence intensity in a DMF/H2O (1:9, v:v) mixed solvent system, and exhibits good reversibility in a very narrow range of pH values (pH = 12.5~13). In addition, probe L can also selectively identify solvent DMSO by the induction of fluorescence quenching.

Conclusion:

Probe L can be used for the analysis and visual detection to pH change in DMF/H2O system, and it may also be used as the indicator for the detection and monitoring of trace amounts of DMSO.
Bioactive Compounds from Mimosa pudica Leaves Extract with Their α- glucosidase and Protein Tyrosine Phosphatase 1B Inhibitory Activities in vitro and in silico Approaches
Authors: Tung Bui Thanh , Lan Pham Thi , Thu Nguyen Thi , Thom Vu Thi , Yen Nguyen Thi Hai , Minh Phan Hong , Nhat Bui Son , Huyen Nguyen Thi , Nhung Nguyen Hong , Hang Ta Thi Thu , Hang Pham Thi Nguyet
Published: May 2022

Background: Mimosa pudica Linn has been used in traditional medicine to support the treatment of type 2 diabetes. In the present study, we aimed to isolate and evaluate α-glucosidase and Protein Tyrosine Phosphatase 1B (PTP1B) inhibitory activities of bioactive compounds from Mimosa pudica’s leaf extract.
 Methods: Mimosa pudica leaves were extracted with 80% of ethanol. Bioactive compounds were isolated using a column chromatographic technique and elucidated the structure based on the nuclear magnetic resonance and electrospray ionization mass spectrometry spectral data. The α- glucosidase and PTP1B inhibitory activities of the isolated compounds were evaluated using pnitrophenyl phosphate and p-nitrophenyl-α-D-glucopyranoside as a substrate, respectively. Molecular docking and molecular dynamics are used to study the interaction between isolated compounds and proteins. Lipinski’s rule of five was used to evaluate the drug-like properties of isolated compounds. Predict pharmacokinetic parameters were evaluated using the pkCSM tool.
 Results: Protocatechuic acid and syringic acid were isolated and identified using spectroscopic methods. Protocatechuic acid and syringic acid considerably inhibited α-glucosidase enzyme at IC50 values of 416.17 ± 9.41 μM and 490.78 ± 9.28 μM, respectively. Furthermore, protocatechuic acid and syringic acid expressed strong PTP1B inhibitory activity at IC50 values of 248.83 ± 7.66 μM and 450.31 ± 7.77 μM, respectively. Molecular docking and molecular dynamics results showed the interactions of protocatechuic acid and syringic acid with amino acids of PTP1B and α-glucosidase enzyme. Lipinski’s rule of five and absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion, and toxicity studies predicted that protocatechuic acid and syringic acid have drug-likeness properties. In molecular docking simulation, protocatechuic acid and syringic acid gave relatively negative free binding energies and interacted with many amino acids in the active sites of PTP1B and α-glucosidase. The molecular dynamics simulation results of the complexes were also relatively stable.
 Conclusion: Our results showed that protocatechuic and syringic acids could be promising compounds for type 2 diabetes treatment.
Optimization of Polyphenol Extraction from Apricot Kernel Shells:
Comparative Study Between Box-Behnken and Central Composite Designs
Authors: Teffane Mohand , Boudries Hafid , Bachir-Bey Mostapha , Kadi Ahcene , Taibi Abdeslem , Boukhalfa Farid , Djoudi Warda
Published: May 2022

Background:

Phenolic compounds, response surface methodology, optimization, apricot kernel shell, box-behnken design, central
composite design.

Objective:

This study aimed to optimize the extraction of phenolic compounds from apricot kernel
shells by different extraction techniques by studying the effects of different parameters on the extraction
efficiency, and the comparison between the Box-Behnken Design and the Central Composite
Design of the response surface methodology is done in order to have good extraction estimation.

Methods:

In this study, response surface methodology; Box-Behnken and Central Composite
Designs, was used to contrast the efficacy and investigate the principal interactions of three operating
parameters (ethanol concentration, microwave power, and extraction time), in the optimization
of phenolic compounds extraction from apricot kernel shells by microwave-assisted extraction,
ultrasonic-assisted extraction, and maceration techniques.

Results:

The results indicated that the optimal total phenolic compounds obtained with microwave
assisted extraction techniques by Box-Behnken Design was 9.30 ± 0.22 mg/g, where the ethanol
concentration, microwave power, and extraction time, were 45.85%, 370.5 W, and 11 min, respectively.
However, the optimal total phenolic compounds revealed by Central Composite Design
were 8.86 ± 0.05mg/g under ethanol concentration, microwave power, and extraction time of
51.99%, 394.37W, and 9.68min, respectively.

Conclusion:

This work proposes the best mathematical model to optimize the extraction of polyphenols
from this by-product which seems to be a possible source of phenolic compounds that can
be used in the food, cosmetic, and pharmaceutical industries.
New Methodology for the Design of Nanostructured Integrated Circuits
Authors: Kumar Sharma Vijay
Published: May 2022

Background:

A metal oxide semiconductor field effect transistor (MOSFET) is widely
used to make integrated circuits (ICs). MOSFET devices are reaching the practical limitations
for further scaling in the nanoscale regime. It motivates the researchers to explore and develop
new ways to advance the electronics industry. Quantum-dot cellular automata (QCA) is a potential
way to replace the MOSFET devices in the nanoscale regime. QCA nanotechnology not only
solves the issue of scalability but also degrades the leakage current. It has numerous benefits,
such as a highly dense design, fast speed, and energy efficiency compared to complementary
metal-oxide-semiconductor (CMOS) technology.

Objective:

An extensive study of QCA nanotechnology is needed to quickly understand the
field. Optimizing the QCA designs is the mandatory requirement to minimize the occupied cell
area, latency and quantum cost. The preliminary knowledge of QCA nanotechnology boosts the
idea of generating different logic functions. This review paper presents the methodology for
making the fundamental logic gates using QCA nanotechnology. XOR gate is commonly used to
implement popular circuits such as adders, subtractors, comparators, code converters, reversible
gates etc. The various available QCA-based 2-input XOR gate designs are discussed and compared
for the different performance metrics.

Methods:

Columbic interaction causes logical operations, and data is transferred from one cell to
another cell using cell-to-cell interaction. A specific arrangement of QCA cells produces a specific
logic. QCA Designer tool using a Bi-stable simulation engine is used to design different
digital circuits.

Results:

This review paper deals with the design of the 2-input XOR gate. The considered performance
metrics for the comparison purpose are cell count, occupied area, clock cycle, and
quantum cost. Existing works on 2-input XOR gates show that a minimum of 8 QCA cells are
needed for a 2-input XOR gate using QCA nanotechnology. A single clock cycle-based 2-input
XOR gate requires at least 9 QCA cells. The quantum cost can be minimized by reducing the
number of QCA cells and clock cycles.

Conclusion:

This review paper helps the circuit designers to select the appropriate 2-input XOR
gate for the design of complex circuits. Circuit designers can use the fundamental concepts detailed
in the paper to implement any Boolean function and optimize it for the existing designs. A
researcher had developed a 2-input XOR gate using only 8 QCA cells with 0.50 clock cycles.
Therefore, designers can start from here to further optimize the 2-input XOR gate with a single
clock cycle.
L-Carnitine Reduced Cellular Aging of Bone Marrow Resident C-Kit+
Hematopoietic Progenitor Cells Through Telomere Dependent Pathways
Authors: Fathi Ezzatollah , Montazersaheb Soheila , Sanaat Zohreh , Nakhlband Ailar , Vandghanooni Somayeh , Farahzadi Raheleh , Vietor Ilja
Published: May 2022

Background:

Increased oxygen species levels can induce mitochondrial DNA damage and
chromosomal aberrations and cause defective stem cell differentiation, leading finally to senescence of
stem cells. In recent years, several studies have reported that antioxidants can improve stem cell survival
and subsequently affect the potency and differentiation of these cells. Finding factors, which reduce the
senescence tendency of stem cells upon expansion, has great potential for cellular therapy in regenerative
medicine. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of L-carnitine (LC) on the aging of C-kit+ hematopoietic
progenitor cells (HPCs) via examining the expression of some signaling pathway components.

Methods:

For this purpose, bone marrow resident C-kit+ HPCs were enriched by the magnetic-activated
cell sorting (MACS) method and were characterized using flow cytometry as well as immunocytochemistry.
Cells were treated with LC, and at the end of the treatment period, the cells were subjected to the realtime
PCR technique along with a western blotting assay for measurement of the telomere length and assessment
of protein expression, respectively.

Results:

The results showed that 0.2 mM LC caused the elongation of the telomere length and increased
the TERT protein expression. In addition, a significant increase was observed in the protein expression of
p38, p53, BCL2, and p16 as key components of the telomere-dependent pathway.

Conclusion:

It can be concluded that LC can increase the telomere length as an effective factor in increasing
the cell survival and maintenance of the C-kit+ HPCs via these signaling pathway components.
Hoisting-Rope Continuous Retracting and Releasing Device With Constant Locking Force and Small Impact
Authors: Kou Baofu , Zhang Zhang , Li Zhenshun
Published: May 2022

Background:

With the continuous exploitation of shallow mineral resources, the shallow resources
are increasingly exhausted. Therefore, the application of multi-rope friction machine in ultradeep,
high speed, heavy load mine will be more widely used. The diameter and dead weight of the
hoisting-rope in this heavy-duty deep well are larger, and the internal torsion and bending load are more
complex, which makes the replacement of the hoisting rope more difficult. According to the "coal mine
safety regulations", the working life of the hoisting-rope is not more than two years, and the hoistingrope
of friction hoist is not more than eight months in a harsh environment. Although the existing hoisting-
rope replacing methods are mature, there are some problems, such as high labor intensity, long replacement
time and low safety, which affect the mine production and are not suitable for deep mine
hoisting-rope replacement operation.

Objective:

The purpose of this patent is to provide a new mechanism for safely and efficiently replacing
the hoisting-ropes of multi-rope friction hoists. In addition, the dynamic simulation analysis of the key
parameters of the mechanism is carried out, and reasonable design suggestions are given.

Methods:

A new device is designed to achieve continuous retracting and releasing ropes with constant
locking force and small impact, which is mainly composed of sprocket, chain, friction block, mechanism
of clamping hoisting-rope and so on.

Results:

The designed new mechanism can efficiently and safely replace the hoisting-rope of various
hoisting equipment and realize the continuous hoisting-rope replacement, limiting the load impact to a
great extent. The mechanism is responsible for clamping and releasing the new hoisting-rope and retracting
the old hoisting-rope during the whole hoisting-rope replacement process. In the condition of
some hoisting-rope with large dead weight, it can also provide enough clamping force, and there will be
no phenomenon of hoisting-rope sliding.

Conslusion:

The device not only realizes the synchronous replacement of the old and new hoistingrope,
but also greatly improves the replacement efficiency and safety of the hoisting-rope. The patent
effectively solves the existing problems in the process of hoisting-rope replacement and greatly improves
work efficiency.
Conjectured Cournot Duopoly Model for the EU–US Automobile Trade: A Game Theoretic Analysis of the TTIP’s Most Traded Product
Authors: Kovács Eszter
Published: May 2022

Economic actors, in their interactions with each other, certainly make decisions which are able to improve their original situation. In the case of free trade agreements, tariffs have the effect to manipulate countries’ trade and welfare. In this paper, we try to estimate the impacts of the Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership (TTIP) on the profit level of participating countries in the context of the Cournot duopoly model. More specifically, we elaborate the most traded product (MTP) and determine the profit levels in the equilibrium regarding two scenarios (pre and post situations of the TTIP). The findings suggest that the Cournot model seems suitable since it illustrates the possible options and provides a guideline for the decision-making process. Based on the model, it can be shown at which point the highest benefit can be achieved for the participating economies (EU, US) i.e. how long it is worth for the parties to apply additional automotive tariffs.
Using Artificial Intelligence as a Diagnostic Decision Support Tool in Skin Disease: Protocol for an Observational Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Escalé-Besa Anna , Fuster-Casanovas Aïna , Börve Alexander , Yélamos Oriol , Fustà-Novell Xavier , Esquius Rafat Mireia , Marin-Gomez Francesc X , Vidal-Alaball Josep
Published: May 2022

Background

Dermatological conditions are a relevant health problem. Each person has an average of 1.6 skin diseases per year, and consultations for skin pathology represent 20% of the total annual visits to primary care and around 35% are referred to a dermatology specialist. Machine learning (ML) models can be a good tool to help primary care professionals, as it can analyze and optimize complex sets of data. In addition, ML models are increasingly being applied to dermatology as a diagnostic decision support tool using image analysis, especially for skin cancer detection and classification.

Objective

This study aims to perform a prospective validation of an image analysis ML model as a diagnostic decision support tool for the diagnosis of dermatological conditions.

Methods

In this prospective study, 100 consecutive patients who visit a participant general practitioner (GP) with a skin problem in central Catalonia were recruited. Data collection was planned to last 7 months. Anonymized pictures of skin diseases were taken and introduced to the ML model interface (capable of screening for 44 different skin diseases), which returned the top 5 diagnoses by probability. The same image was also sent as a teledermatology consultation following the current stablished workflow. The GP, ML model, and dermatologist’s assessments will be compared to calculate the precision, sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy of the ML model. The results will be represented globally and individually for each skin disease class using a confusion matrix and one-versus-all methodology. The time taken to make the diagnosis will also be taken into consideration.

Results

Patient recruitment began in June 2021 and lasted for 5 months. Currently, all patients have been recruited and the images have been shown to the GPs and dermatologists. The analysis of the results has already started.

Conclusions

This study will provide information about ML models’ effectiveness and limitations. External testing is essential for regulating these diagnostic systems to deploy ML models in a primary care practice setting.
A quasi-experimental pilot study to evaluate the impact of physical exercise on cognitive functions in healthy older women. (Preprint)
Authors: Sánchez-González Juan Luis , Martín-Vallejo Francisco Javier , Santolala-Arnedo Iván , Tejada-Garrido Clara Isabel , Ruiz de Viñaspre-Hernández. Regina , Juárez-Vela Raúl , Sanchez Rodriguez Juan Luis
Published: May 2022

BACKGROUND

The population of people over 65 years of age is currently growing thanks to social and health policies. This brings with it an increase in age-related diseases due to a series of morphological and physiological changes in these population groups.

OBJECTIVE

We aimed to study the effect of a physical exercise program on neurocognitive functions.

METHODS

Methods. A pilot quasi-experimental study was carried out with a sample of 73 healthy female subjects who were divided into two groups: the intervention group and the control group. Both groups underwent a neuropsychological evaluation before and after the intervention. Subjects in the intervention group performed physical exercise 3 times a week, 50 minutes in each session. The subjects in the control group did not perform any type of physical exercise and completed their activities of daily living.

RESULTS

Results. The intervention group improved cognitive functions after the intervention and obtained higher scores than the control group. No significant differences were found between the intervention groups regarding age, year of schooling and marital status, and educational level. Conclusion: Regular physical exercise (Geriatric Revitalization Program) im-proves global cognitive function, visoconstructive capacity, and memory functions: visual memory and short-term memory.

CONCLUSIONS

Conclusion: Regular physical exercise (Geriatric Revitalization Program) improves global cognitive function, visoconstructive capacity, and memory functions: visual memory and short-term memory