bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Utilization of Spider Plants (Gynandropsis gynandra, L. Briq) amongst Farming Households and Consumers of Northern Namibia
Authors: Chataika Barthlomew Yonas , Akundabweni Levi Shadeya-Mudogo , Achigan-Dako Enoch G. , Sibiya Julia , Kwapata Kingdom
Published: August 2020

Spider plants (Gynandropsis gynandra, L. Briq.) are a semi-wild vegetable reported to have high nutritional, medicinal, insecticidal, and cultural values, yet continue to be neglected in research. The study was undertaken to investigate indigenous knowledge and utilization of the species in five regions of northern Namibia. Three tools were used; (i) focus group discussion, (ii) semi-structured interviews involving a random selection of 100 farming households and 24 consumers, and (iii) key informant interviews involving four agricultural staff and two open-market supervisors. Data were subjected to descriptive statistics, inferential, and cluster analyses. The study found that farming households and consumers placed higher nutritional, sociocultural, and medicinal values in spider plants than any other vegetable. Ranking of utilization traits, such as nutritional, sociocultural, and medicinal use, revealed three clusters of sociolinguistic groups associated with geographical region. The vegetable was sold and used in most cultural, traditional, and religious functions as a relish, as a source of honor, to bring luck, and for protection. The diverse uses and value placed on spider plants could offer an opportunity for the development of technologies for enhancing their domestication, production, and utilization. It is recommended that follow-up studies be carried to identify specific sociocultural and geographic factors affecting the use of spider plants.
Parents as Agents: Engaging Children in Environmental Literacy in China
Authors: Iwaniec Janina , Curdt-Christiansen Xiao Lan
Published: August 2020

China, one of the most polluting countries in the world, is facing tremendous challenges in dealing with environmental problems. Although the government has implemented various regulations and introduced strong enforcement to reduce toxic emissions and encourage recycling, little is known about how parents in China socialise their children into environmentally responsible individuals. This article reports on what 267 Chinese parents do, as agents of environmental protection, to raise their children’s awareness of environmental issues, and how their environmental literacy affects these children’s attitudes and behaviours. A survey was developed to measure how parents engage their children in environmental literacy, how confident parents feel in their own environmental awareness, and whether this has an effect on their engagement with children. The participants were found to play an agentive socialisation role in their engagement with children on pro-environmentalism in terms of shaping their behaviours and attitudes and developing their knowledge and skills. Furthermore, the correlational analysis results reveal that engagement in some aspects of environmental literacy is related to parents’ socio-economic status (SES) and their age; namely, the lower the SES or age, the higher the engagement. The study serves as a baseline for parents’ engagement with environmental literacy in China and has important implications for a concerted action by schools, the government, and environmental organisations to empower parents to be true agents of environmental literacy.
Discrete-Inverse Optimal Control Applied to the Ball and Beam Dynamical System: A Passivity-Based Control Approach
Authors: Danilo Montoya Oscar , Gil-González Walter , Ramírez-Vanegas Carlos
Published: August 2020

This express brief deals with the problem of the state variables regulation in the ball and beam system by applying the discrete-inverse optimal control approach. The ball and beam system model is defined by a set of four-order nonlinear differential equations that are discretized using the forward difference method. The main advantages of using the discrete-inverse optimal control to regulate state variables in dynamic systems are (i) the control input is an optimal signal as it guarantees the minimum of the Hamiltonian function, (ii) the control signal makes the dynamical system passive, and (iii) the control input ensures asymptotic stability in the sense of Lyapunov. Numerical simulations in the MATLAB environment allow demonstrating the effectiveness and robustness of the studied control design for state variables regulation with a wide gamma of dynamic behaviors as a function of the assigned control gains.
How Opinion Leaders Affect Others on Seeking Truth in a Bounded Confidence Model
Authors: Chen Shuwei , Glass David H. , McCartney Mark
Published: August 2020

Seeking truth is an important objective of agents in social groups. Opinion leaders in social groups may help or hinder the other agents on seeking the truth by symmetric nature. This paper studies the impact of opinion leaders by considering four characteristics of opinion leaders—reputation, stubbornness, appeal, and extremeness—on the truth-seeking behavior of agents based on a bounded confidence model. Simulations show that increasing the appeal of the leader whose opinion is opposite to the truth has a straightforward impact, i.e., it normally prevents the agents from finding the truth. On the other hand, it also makes the agents who start out close to the truth move away from the truth by increasing the group bound of confidence, if there is an opinion leader opposite to the truth. The results demonstrate that the opinion of the leader is important in affecting the normal agents to reach the truth. Furthermore, for some cases, small variations of the parameters defining the agents’ characteristics can lead to large scale changes in the social group.
Contamination of Zearalenone from China in 2019 by a Visual and Digitized Immunochromatographic Assay
Authors: Hong Xia , Mao Yuhao , Yang Chuqin , Liu Zhenjiang , Li Ming , Du Daolin
Published: August 2020

Zearalenone (ZEN) is a prevalent mycotoxin that needs intensive monitoring. A semi-quantitative and quantitative immunochromatographic assay (ICA) was assembled for investigating ZEN contamination in 187 samples of cereal and their products from China in 2019. The semi-quantitative detection model had a limit of detection (LOD) of 0.50 ng/mL with visual judgment and could be completely inhibited within 5 min at 3.0 ng/mL ZEN. The quantitative detection model had a lower LOD of 0.25 ng/mL, and ZEN could be accurately and digitally detected from 0.25–4.0 ng/mL. The ICA method had a high sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy for on-site ZEN detection. For investigation of the authentic samples, the ZEN-positive rate was 62.6%, and the ZEN-positive levels ranged from 2.7 to 867.0 ng/g, with an average ZEN-positive level being 85.0 ng/g. Of the ZEN-positive samples, 6.0% exceeded the values of the limit levels. The ZEN-positive samples were confirmed to be highly correlated using LC-MS/MS (R2 = 0.9794). This study could provide an efficiency and accuracy approach for ZEN in order to achieve visual and digitized on-site investigation. This significant information about the ZEN contamination levels might contribute to monitoring mycotoxin occurrence and for ensuring food safety.
Antiviral Activity of PD-L1 and PD-L4, Type 1 Ribosome Inactivating Proteins from Leaves of Phytolacca dioica L. in the Pathosystem Phaseolus vulgaris–Tobacco Necrosis Virus (TNV)
Authors: Bulgari Daniela , Landi Nicola , Ragucci Sara , Faoro Franco , Di Maro Antimo
Published: August 2020

Using the pathosystem Phaseolus vulgaris–tobacco necrosis virus (TNV), we demonstrated that PD-L1 and PD-L4, type-1 ribosome inactivating proteins (RIPs) from leaves of Phytolacca dioica L., possess a strong antiviral activity. This activity was exerted both when the RIPs and the virus were inoculated together in the same leaf and when they were inoculated or applied separately in the adaxial and abaxial leaf surfaces. This suggests that virus inhibition would mainly occur inside plant cells at the onset of infection. Histochemical studies showed that both PD-L1 and PD-L4 were not able to induce oxidative burst and cell death in treated leaves, which were instead elicited by inoculation of the virus alone. Furthermore, when RIPs and TNV were inoculated together, no sign of H2O2 deposits and cell death were detectable, indicating that the virus could have been inactivated in a very early stage of infection, before the elicitation of a hypersensitivity reaction. In conclusion, the strong antiviral activity is likely exerted inside host cells as soon the virus disassembles to start translation of the viral genome. This activity is likely directed towards both viral and ribosomal RNA, explaining the almost complete abolition of infection when virus and RIP enter together into the cells.
Quark Stars in Massive Brans–Dicke Gravity with Tolman–Kuchowicz Spacetime
Authors: Majid Amal , Sharif M.
Published: August 2020

In this paper, we construct anisotropic model representing salient features of strange stars in the framework of massive Brans–Dicke gravity. We formulate the field equations for Tolman–Kuchowicz ansatz by incorporating the MIT bag model. Junction conditions are applied on the boundary of the stellar model to evaluate the unknown constants in terms of mass and radius of the star. The radius of the strange star candidate PSR J1614-2230 is predicted by assuming maximum anisotropy at the surface of the star for different values of the coupling parameter, mass of the scalar field and bag constant. We examine various properties as well as the viability and stability of the anisotropic sphere. We conclude that the astrophysical model agrees with the essential criteria of a physically realistic model for higher values of the coupling parameter as well as mass of the scalar field.
Phylogenetic Characterization of Arboviruses in Patients Suffering from Acute Fever in Rondônia, Brazil
Authors: Queiroz Jackson Alves da Silva , Botelho-Souza Luan Felipo , Nogueira-Lima Felipe Souza , Rampazzo Rita de Cássia Pontello , Krieger Marco Aurélio , Zambenedetti Miriam Ribas , Marchini Fabricio Klerinton , Borghetti Ivo Alberto , Pereira Dhelio Batista , Salcedo Juan Miguel Vilalobos , Vieira Deusilene Souza , Santos Alcione de Oliveira dos
Published: August 2020

The purpose of the study was to classify, through phylogenetic analyses, the main arboviruses that have been isolated in the metropolitan region of Porto Velho, Rondônia, Brazil. Serum samples from patients with symptoms suggesting arboviruses were collected and tested by One Step RT-qPCR for Zika, Dengue (serotypes 1–4), Chikungunya, Mayaro and Oropouche viruses. Positive samples were amplified by conventional PCR and sequenced utilizing the Sanger method. The obtained sequences were aligned, and an evolutionary analysis was carried out using Bayesian inference. A total of 308 samples were tested. Of this total, 20 had a detectable viral load for Dengue, being detected DENV1 (18/20), co-infection DENV1 and DENV2 (1/20) and DENV4 (1/20). For Dengue serotype 3 and for the CHIKV, ZIKV, MAYV and OROV viruses, no individuals with a detectable viral load were found. A total of 9 of these samples were magnified by conventional PCR for sequencing. Of these, 6 were successfully sequenced and, according to the evolutionary profile, 5 corresponded to serotype DENV-1 genotype V, and 1 to serotype DENV-4 genotype II. In the study, we demonstrate co-circulation of the DENV-1 genotype V and the DENV-4 genotype II. Co-circulation of several DENV serotypes in the same city poses a risk to the population and is correlated with the increase of the most severe forms of the disease. Similarly, co-circulation of genetically distinct DENV and the occurrence of simultaneous infections can affect recombination events and lead to the emergence of more virulent isolates.
Nationwide Screening for Bee Viruses and Parasites in Belgian Honey Bees
Authors: Matthijs Severine , De Waele Valérie , Vandenberge Valerie , Verhoeven Bénédicte , Evers Jacqueline , Brunain Marleen , Saegerman Claude , De Winter Paul , Roels Stefan , de Graaf Dirk , De Regge Nick
Published: August 2020

The health of honey bees is threatened by multiple factors, including viruses and parasites. We screened 557 honey bee (Apis mellifera) colonies from 155 beekeepers distributed all over Belgium to determine the prevalence of seven widespread viruses and two parasites (Varroa sp. and Nosema sp.). Deformed wing virus B (DWV-B), black queen cell virus (BQCV), and sacbrood virus (SBV) were highly prevalent and detected by real-time RT-PCR in more than 95% of the colonies. Acute bee paralysis virus (ABPV), chronic bee paralysis virus (CBPV) and deformed wing virus A (DWV-A) were prevalent to a lower extent (between 18 and 29%). Most viruses were only present at low or moderate viral loads. Nevertheless, about 50% of the colonies harbored at least one virus at high viral load (>107 genome copies/bee). Varroa mites and Nosema sp. were found in 81.5% and 59.7% of the honey bee colonies, respectively, and all Nosema were identified as Nosema ceranae by real time PCR. Interestingly, we found a significant correlation between the number of Varroa mites and DWV-B viral load. To determine the combined effect of these and other factors on honey bee health in Belgium, a follow up of colonies over multiple years is necessary.
Does Data Availability Constrain Temperature-Index Snow Models? A Case Study in a Humid Boreal Forest
Authors: Parajuli Achut , Nadeau Daniel F. , Anctil François , Schilling Oliver S. , Jutras Sylvain
Published: August 2020

Temperature-index (TI) models are commonly used to simulate the volume and occurrence of meltwater in snow-fed catchments. TI models have varying levels of complexity but are all based on air temperature observations. The quality and availability of data that drive these models affect their predictive ability, particularly given that they are frequently applied in remote environments. This study investigates the performance of non-calibrated TI models in simulating the subcanopy snow water equivalent (SWE) of a small watershed located in Eastern Canada, for which some distinctive observations were collected. Among three relatively simple TI algorithms, the model that performed the best was selected based on the average percent bias (Pbias of 24%) and root mean square error (RMSE of 100 mm w.e.), and was designated as the base TI model. Then, a series of supplemental tests were conducted in order to quantify the performance gain that resulted from including the following inputs/processes to the base TI model: subcanopy incoming radiation, canopy interception, snow surface temperature, sublimation, and cold content. As a final test, all the above modifications were performed simultaneously. Our results reveal that, with the exception of snow sublimation (Pbias of 5.4%) and snow surface temperature, the variables mentioned above were unable to improve TI models within our sites. It is therefore worth exploring other feasible alternatives to existing TI models in complex forested environments.
Projection of Droughts as Multivariate Phenomenon in the Rhine River
Authors: Chamorro Alejandro , Houska Tobias , Singh Shailesh , Breuer Lutz
Published: August 2020

Drought is a complex phenomenon whose characterization is best achieved from a multivariate perspective. It is well known that it can generate adverse consequences in society. In this regard, drought duration, severity, and their interrelationship play a critical role. In a climate change scenario, drought characterization and the assessment of the changes in its pattern are essential for a proper quantification of water availability and managing strategies. The purpose of this study is to characterize hydrological droughts in the Rhine River in a multivariate perspective for the historical period and estimate the expected multivariate drought patterns for the next decades. Further, a comparison of bivariate drought patterns between historical and future projections is performed for different return periods. This will, first, indicate if changes can be expected and, second, what the magnitudes of these possible changes could be. Finally, the underlying uncertainty due to climate projections is estimated. Four Representative Concentration Pathways (RCP) are used along with five General Circulation Models (GCM). The HBV hydrological model is used to simulate discharge in both periods. Characterization of droughts is accomplished by the Standardized Runoff Index and the interdependence between drought severity and duration is modelled by a two-dimensional copula. Projections from different climate models show important differences in the estimation of the number of drought events for different return periods. This study reveals that duration and severity present a clear interrelationship, suggesting strongly the appropriateness of a bivariate model. Further, projections show that the bivariate interdependencies between drought duration and severity show clearly differences depending on GCMs and RCPs. Apart from the influence of GCMs and RCMs, it is found that return periods also play an important role in these relationships and uncertainties. Finally, important changes in the bivariate drought patterns between the historical period and future projections are estimated constituting important information for water management purposes.
The Potential Use of Geophysical Methods to Identify Cavities, Sinkholes and Pathways for Water Infiltration
Authors: Hussain Yawar , Uagoda Rogerio , Borges Welitom , Nunes José , Hamza Omar , Condori Cristobal , Aslam Khurram , Dou Jie , Cárdenas-Soto Martín
Published: August 2020

The use of geophysical characterization of karst systems can provide an economical and non-invasive alternative for extracting information about cavities, sinkholes, pathways for water infiltration as well as the degree of karstification of underlying carbonate rocks. In the present study, three geophysical techniques, namely, Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR), Electrical Resistivity Tomography (ERT) and Very Low Frequency Electromagnetic (VLFEM) methods were applied at three different locations in relation to fluvial karst, which is listed as an environmentally sensitive area in Rio Vermelho, Mambaí, Goiás, Brazil. In the data acquisition phase, the GPR, direct-current (DC) resistivity and VLFEM profiles were obtained at the three locations in the area. Data were analyzed using commonly adopted processing workflows. The GPR results showed a well-defined lithology of the site based on the amplitude of the signal and radar typologies. On the other hand, the inverted resistivity cross-sections showed a three-layered stratigraphy, pathways of water infiltration and the weathered structures in carbonate (Bambui group). The interpretation of VLFEM as contours of current density resulted from Fraser and Karous–Hjelt filters, indicated the presence of conductive structures (high apparent current density) that might be linked to the weathered carbonate and other conductive and resistive anomalies associated with the water-filled and dry cavities (cave), respectively. The results encourage the integrated application of geophysical techniques such as the reconnaissance for further detailed characterization of the karst areas.
An Ensemble Climate-Hydrology Modeling System for Long-Term Streamflow Assessment in a Cold-Arid Watershed
Authors: Sun Jie , Li Yongping , Wu Jiansen , Zhang Hongyu
Published: August 2020

Climate change can bring about substantial alternatives of temperature and precipitation in the spatial and temporal patterns. These alternatives would impact the hydrological cycle and cause flood or drought events. This study has developed an ensemble climate-hydrology modeling system (ECHMS) for long-term streamflow assessment under changing climate. ECHMS consists of multiple climate scenarios (two global climate models (GCMs) and four representative concentration pathways (RCPs) emission scenarios), a stepwise-cluster downscaling method and semi-distributed land use-based runoff process (SLURP) model. ECHMS is able to reflect the uncertainties in climate scenarios, tackle the complex relationships (e.g., nonlinear/linear, discrete/continuous) between climate predictors and predictions without functional assumption, and capture the combination of snowmelt– and rainfall–runoff process with a simplicity of operation. Then, the developed ECHMS is applied to Kaidu watershed for analyzing the changes of streamflow during the 21st century. Results show that by 2099, the temperature increment in Kaidu watershed is mainly contributed by the warming in winter and spring. The precipitation will increase obviously in spring and autumn and decrease in winter. Multi-year average streamflow would range from 105.6 to 113.8 m3/s across all scenarios during the 21st century with an overall increasing trend. The maximum average increasing rate is 2.43 m3/s per decade in October and the minimum is 0.26 m3/s per decade in January. Streamflow change in spring is more sensitive to climate change due to its complex runoff generation process. The obtained results can effectively identify future streamflow changing trends and help manage water resources for decision makers.
Exergy Optimization of a Solar Collector in Flat Plate Shape Equipped with Elliptical Pipes Filled with Turbulent Nanofluid Flow: A Study for Thermal Management
Authors: Rostami Sara , Sepehrirad Mohammad , Dezfulizadeh Amin , Hussein Ahmed , Shahsavar Goldanlou Aysan , Shadloo Mostafa
Published: August 2020

In this paper, forced convection of a multiwalled carbon nanotube (MWCNT)–water nanofluid (NF) in a new flat plate solar collector (FPSC) equipped with elliptical pipes instead of circular ones is investigated. The three-dimensional conservation equations were solved in the domain with the finite volume method (FVM) based on the semi-implicit method for pressure linked equations (SIMPLE) algorithm. The laminar-turbulent range of the Reynolds number (Re) and the volume fraction of the NF (ϕ) were 50–12,000 and 0–0.1, respectively. The optimization process was accomplished through the comparison of diverse parameters to attain the optimal case with the highest exergy efficiency. In this study, it was concluded that, in the case of using elliptical pipes instead of circular tubes, the time that the fluid was inside the FPSC increased, which led to an increase in the outlet temperature, while the exergy efficiency of the FPSC increased. Additionally, it was observed that using elliptical pipes enhanced the outlet fluid temperature, energy efficiency, and exergy efficiency. Generally, while the trend of exergy efficiency variation with effective parameters was rising, applying elliptical pipes caused the efficiency to increase. In addition, the exergy efficiency variation decreased when these parameters were changed. The highest value of exergy efficiency was 7.1%. On the other hand, for each specific FPSC, there was a unique mass flow rate at which the exergy efficiency reached its maximum value, and for higher mass flow rates, the efficiency was slightly diminished and then remained unchanged. Finally, the highest exergy efficiency was achieved for ϕ = 0.10%.
Long Non-coding Ribonucleic Acid as a Novel Diagnosis and Prognosis Biomarker of Bladder Cancer
Authors: Afshar Saeid , Seyedabadi Saman , Saidijam Massoud , Samadi Pouria , Mazaherilaghab Hamzeh , Mahdavinezhad Ali
Published: August 2020

Long non-coding ribonucleic acids (lncRNAs) are the largest group of non-coding RNAs and supposedly have a broad spectrum of diverse functions in normal cellular processes. This study was carried out to review the biological functions of candidate lncRNAs (i.e., H19, MALAT-1, TUG1, UCA-1, MEG-3, HOTAIR, CCAT2, AATBC, and the like) with aberrant expressions that play critical roles in bladder cancer (BC) initiation, progression, and metastasis. A formal narrative review was performed by searching the PubMed database for English articles using a combination of keywords such as "long non-coding RNA", "lncRNA", "cancer", "bladder cancer", "screening", "prognosis", "diagnosis", and "response to therapy". In addition, the existing literature was studied on biological function, aberrant expression, and the clinical applications of candidate lncRNAs in BC. By a better understanding of the molecular mechanisms of lncRNAs, they can be used as biomarkers for tumor signatures in urologic malignancies, which can improve screening, prognosis, diagnosis, and the treatment of BC.
The Evaluation of Effective Drugs for the Treatment of Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: A Aystematic Review and Network Meta-Analysis
Authors: Jalili Ramin , Somi Mohammad Hossein , Hosseinifard Hossein , Salehnia Fatemeh , Ghojazadeh Morteza , Makhdami Nima , Shirmohammadi Masoud
Published: August 2020

Purpose
: Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and steatohepatitis are two forms of fatty liver disease with benign and malignant nature, respectively. These two conditions can cause an increased risk of liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. Given the importance and high prevalence of NAFLD, it is necessary to investigate the results of different studies in related scope to provide a clarity guarantee of effectiveness. Therefore, this systematic review and metaanalysis aim to study the efficacy of various medications used in the treatment of NAFLD. Methods: A systematic search of medical databases identified 1963 articles. After exclusion of duplicated articles and those which did not meet our inclusion criteria, eta-analysis was performed on 84 articles. Serum levels of alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate amino transferase (AST) were set as primary outcomes and body mass index (BMI), hepatic steatosis, and NAFLD activity score (NAS) were determined as secondary outcomes. Results: Based on the P-score of the therapeutic effects on the non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), we observed the highest efficacy for atorvastatin, tryptophan, orlistat, omega-3 and obeticholic acid for reduction of ALT, AST, BMI, steatosis and NAS respectively. Conclusion: This meta-analysis showed that atorvastatin. life-style modification, weight loss, and BMI reduction had a remarkable effect on NAFLD-patients by decreasing aminotransferases.
Tumor-Associated Macrophages: Protumoral Macrophages in Inflammatory Tumor Microenvironment
Authors: Malekghasemi Somaiyeh , Majidi Jafar , Baghbanzadeh Amir , Abdolalizadeh Jalal , Baradaran Behzad , Aghebati-Maleki Leili
Published: August 2020

Tumor microenvironment consists of malignant and non-malignant cells. The interaction of these dynamic and different cells is responsible for tumor progression at different levels. The non-malignant cells in TME contain cells such as tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs), cancer associated fibroblasts, pericytes, adipocytes, T cells, B cells, myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs), tumor-associated neutrophils (TANs), dendritic cells (DCs) and Vascular endothelial cells. TAMs are abundant in most human and murine cancers and their presence are associated with poor prognosis. The major event in tumor microenvironment is macrophage polarization into tumor-suppressive M1 or tumor-promoting M2 types. Although much evidence suggests that TAMS are primarily M2-like macrophages, the mechanism responsible for polarization into M1 and M2 macrophages remain unclear. TAM contributes cancer cell motility, invasion, metastases and angiogenesis. The relationship between TAM and tumor cells lead to used them as a diagnostic marker, therapeutic target and prognosis of cancer. This review presents the origin, polarization, role of TAMs in inflammation, metastasis, immune evasion and angiogenesis as well as they can be used as therapeutic target in variety of cancer cells. It is obvious that additional substantial and preclinical research is needed to support the effectiveness and applicability of this new and promising strategy for cancer treatment.
Formulation and In Vitro Penetration Study of Recombinant Human Epidermal Growth Factor-Loaded Transfersomal Emulgel
Authors: Surini Silvia , Leonyza Astried , Suh Chang Woo
Published: August 2020

Purpose
: Recombinant human epidermal growth factor (rhEGF) is a 6045-Da peptide that promotes the cell growth process, and it is also used for cosmetic purposes as an anti-aging compound. However, its penetration into skin is limited by its large molecular size. This study aimed to prepare rhEGF-loaded transfersomal emulgel with enhanced skin penetration compared with that of non-transfersomal rhEGF emulgel. Methods: Three transfersome formulations were prepared with different ratios between the lipid vesicle (phospholipid and surfactant) and rhEGF (200:1, 133:1, and 100:1) using a thin-film hydration-extrusion method. The physicochemical properties of these transfersomes and the percutaneous delivery of the transfersomal emulgel were evaluated. Long-term and accelerated stability studies were also conducted. Results: The 200:1 ratio of lipid to drug was optimal for rhEGF-loaded transfersomes, which had a particle size of 128.1 ± 0.66 nm, polydispersity index of 0.109 ± 0.004, zeta potential of −43.1 ± 1.07 mV, deformability index of 1.254 ± 0.02, and entrapment efficiency of 97.77% ± 0.09%. Transmission electron microscopy revealed that the transfersomes had spherical and unilamellar vesicles. The skin penetration of rhEGF was enhanced by as much as 5.56 fold by transfersomal emulgel compared with that of non-transfersomal emulgel. The stability study illustrated that the rhEGF levels after 3 months were 84.96–105.73 and 54.45%–66.13% at storage conditions of 2°C–8°C and 25°C ± 2°C/RH 60% ± 5%, respectively. Conclusion: The emulgel preparation containing transfersomes enhanced rhEGF penetration into the skin, and skin penetration was improved by increasing the lipid content.
Restoring of miR-193a-5p Sensitizes Breast Cancer Cells to Paclitaxel through P53 Pathway
Authors: Khordadmehr Monireh , Shahbazi Roya , Baradaran Behzad , Sadreddini Sanam , Shanebandi Dariush , Hajiasgharzadeh Khalil
Published: August 2020

Purpose
: Recent evidence presented the important role of microRNAs in health and disease particularly in human cancers. Among those, miR-193 family contributes as a tumor suppressor in different benign and malignant cancers like breast cancer (BC) via interaction with specific targets. On the other hand, it was stated that miR-193 is able to modulate some targets in chemoresistant cancer cells. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate the potential function of miR-193a-5p and paclitaxel in the apoptosis induction by targeting P53 in BC cells. Methods: At first, miR-193a-5p mimics were transfected to MDA-MB-231 BC cell line which indicated the lower expression level of miR-193a-5p. Subsequently, the transfected cells were treated with paclitaxel. Then, cell viability, apoptosis, and migration were evaluated by MTT, flow cytometry and DAPI staining, and scratch-wound motility assays, respectively. Moreover, the expression levels of P53 was evaluated by qRT-PCR. Results: The expression level of miR-193a-5p was restored in MDA-MB-231 cells which profoundly inhibited the proliferation (P<0.0001), induced apoptosis (P<0.0001) and harnessed migration (P<0.0001) in the BC cells and more effectiveness was observed in combination with paclitaxel. Interestingly, increased miR-193a-5p expression led to a reduction in P53 mRNA, offering that it can be a potential target of miR-193a. Conclusion: Taken together, it is concluded that the combination of miR-193a-5p restoration and paclitaxel could be potentially considered as an effective therapeutic strategy to get over chemoresistance during paclitaxel chemotherapy
(+)-Catechin & Proanthocyanidin Fraction of Uncaria gambir Roxb. Improve Adipocytes Differentiation & Glucose Uptake of 3T3-L1 Cells Via Sirtuin-1, Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptor γ (PPAR γ), Glucose Transporter Type 4 (GLUT-4) Expressions
Authors: Arundita Silvy , Ismed Friardi , Rita Rauza Sukma , Putra Deddi Prima
Published: August 2020

Purpose
: To improve adipocytes differentiation & glucose uptake activity of 3T3-L1 cells through sirtuin-1, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPAR γ), glucose transporter type 4 (GLUT-4) of (+)-catechin & proanthocyanidin fraction Uncaria gambir Roxb. Methods: Adipocytes differentiation activity of (+)-Catechin of Uncaria gambir Roxb. was determined by oil red O staining method & glucose uptake activity was determined by measuring 2-deoxyglucose uptake on 3T3-L1 cells. The ability of (+) - catechin as an activator of sirtuin-1 was assessed by administration of (+) - catechin with the presence of a specific inhibitor of sirtuin-1, nicotinamide. Metformin 1 mM & 5 mM were used as positive control. Sirtuin-1, PPAR γ & GLUT-4 expressions were determined by RT-PCR. Results: (+)-Catechin & proanthocyanidin fraction of Uncaria gambir Roxb. were found to increase adipocyte differentiation & glucose uptake by increasing activity of sirtuin-1 as well as metformin (P≤0.05). PPAR γ, GLUT-4 and sirtuin-1 expressions were known to be responsible for this activities. Conclusion: These results indicate that (+)–catechin & proanthocyanidin fraction of Uncaria gambir Roxb. could be utilized as a renewable bioresource to develop potential antidiabetic and antiobesity agents.
Acellular Wharton’s Jelly, Potentials in T-Cell Subtypes Differentiation, Activation and Proliferation
Authors: Talebi Mehdi , Nozad Charoudeh Hojjatollah , Movassaghpour Akbari Ali Akbar , Baradaran Behzad , Kazemi Tohid
Published: August 2020

Purpose
: Because of different potentials of T-cell subtypes in T-cell based cellular immunotherapy approaches such as CAR-T cell therapies; Regarding the high cost of the serum-free specific culture media, having distinct control on T-cell subset activation, expansion and differentiation seem crucial in T-cell expansion step of cell preparation methods. By the way, there was no clear data about the effect of acellular Wharton’s Jelly (AWJ) on T-cells expansion, activation or differentiation status. So, we have launched to study the effect of AWJ on T-cell’s immunobiological properties. Methods: CD3+ T-cells were isolated from healthy bone marrow allogeneic donors, sorted by FACS method and cultured on either routine phyto-hemagglutinin complemented and different concentrations of AWJ, lag phase and doubling time of the cells calculated from cell growth curve. After 3, 7 and 14-days T-cell subtypes cell markers and cell activity related genes expression rate have been evaluated by flow cytometry and real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) methods respectively. Results: AWJ in a 1:1 ratio compared with contemporary lymphocyte culture media showed significant activating and proliferative capacities. The introduced condition has not affected the frequency of CD4+ subpopulation of T-cells, but significantly increased even CD8+ cells and immune-activator genes in T-cells. The regulatory and memory subsets of T-cells in this study have not affected significantly. Conclusion: the study results revealed that AWJ can be utilized as a supportive substance to increase the memory properties of the T-cells, gives control to design a selective medium for expanding and differentiating memory T-cells, relatively.
Impact of Tablet Shape on Drug Dissolution Rate Through Immediate Released Tablets
Authors: Molavi Fatima , Hamishehkar Hamed , Nokhodchi Ali
Published: August 2020

Purpose
: The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of the geometric shape on the dissolution rate of the domperidone, a drug model for immediate release dosage form. In this regard, a lack of sufficient information about the effective dissolution rate of the drugs regarding their shapes has made this issue an interesting subject for researchers. Methods: For this purpose, three tablet shapes, namely flat and biconvex both in a round and oblong shapes, with different four sizes were modelled for the preparation of domperidone tablet. In vitro dissolution test was accomplished using a USP dissolution apparatus II. The drug dissolution rate was assessed by calculating various dissolution parameters; e.g., dissolution efficiency (DE), mean dissolution rate (MDR), mean dissolution time (MDT), and difference and similarity factors (f1 and f2 ). Results: Regarding the disintegration time, the larger tablets showed a faster disintegration time. When the size of the tablets was smaller, the amount of released drug was significantly decreased. In addition, #9 tablets with a flat or biconvex geometry had obvious effects on the DE values. Generally, biconvex tablets had higher DE percentage than the flat tablets. Conclusion: Noticeable differences in dissolution parameters by considering the different geometric shapes play an important role in the drug release kinetics which makes a significant effect on quick onset of action in oral administration.
Efficacy of Sovodak in the Management of Patients Co-infected with HIV/HCV
Authors: Somi Mohammad Hossein , Sepehri Bita , Nikniaz Zeinab , Sedghi Roya
Published: August 2020

Purpose
: Sofosbuvir (SOF) and daclatasvir (DOC) are suggested for the treatment of hepatitis C virus (HCV) in patients with concomitant HCV and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). In 2016, Sovodak tablet a combination of SOF and DOC was introduced. In the present study we assessed the effectiveness of SOF in the treatment of HCV in patients co-infected with HIV. Methods: A total of 26 HCV patients co-infected with HIV received SOF for 3 months. One patient did not adhere to the drug protocol and was removed from the final analysis. The blood sample for qualitative polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was obtained after treatment and sustained virological response (SVR) was calculated. Results: Twenty five patients finished the study. The mean patients’ age was 44.16±6.21 years. About 72% of participants had HCV genotype 1a, 8% genotype 1b, and 20% genotype 3a. After 3 months of intervention with Sovodak, the SVR12 was about 96%. None of the patients reported any adverse events. Conclusion: For the first time, the results of the present study showed that Sovodak had high SVR12 in HCV patients co-infected with HIV. However, for a precise conclusion, there is a need for larger studies and an equal number of patients with different virus genotypes.
PERBANDINGAN KINERJA KEUANGAN BANK UMUM SYARIAH DAN BANK UMUM KONVENSIONAL
Authors: Citarayani Irma , Syaputra Deddy
Published: August 2020

The objective of this research is to make a comparison of  the finance performance between Islamic Commercial Banks and Conventional Commercial Banks in Indonesia in the period 2013-2017 by using financial ratios. Financial ratios are used consisting of FDR/ LDR, ROA, CAR, BOPO and NOM/NIM. The data used in this research was obtained from the Financial Statements of Commercial Banks in 2013 to 2017, published by each Bank concerned. The sample in this research are 5 (five) Islamic Commercial Banks (Muamalat, Bank Syariah Mandiri, BNI Syariah, BCA Syariah dan BRI Syariah.), and 5 (five) Conventional Commercial Banks (BCA, BRI, BNI, Mandiri, dan Panin). Analytical techniques is used to see the comparison of financial performance of Islamic Commercial Banks with Conventional Commercial Bank.  The analysis ratio also used by operating  Microsoft Office Excel 2007, The analysis statistic descriptive and analysis of independent sample t-test is used by operating software SPSS 24. The analysis result showed that there are significant differences for each financial ratio between Islamic Commercial Banks and Conventional Commercial Banks in Indonesia. Islamic Commercial Banks has better performance in terms of FDR/ LDR ratio, while the Conventional Commercial Banks better performance in terms of the ROA, CAR, NOM/ NIM, and BOPO ratios.
PENGARUH KEPATUHAN SATKER PADA INDIKATOR KINERJA PELAKSANAAN ANGGARAN (IKPA) TERHADAP PENYALURAN DUKUNGAN ANGGARAN BINOPSLAT
Authors: Buana Lesmana Chandra , Widiatmoko Nanang
Published: August 2020

Operational Control and Training Activity (Binoplast) activities need support that are effective, efficient, accountable and transparent so that the implementation of operational control and training activity work as plan. IKPA is needed as a monitoring tool and the evaluation to measure the quality of the financial implementation to encourage behavior change of management of financial state. IKPA is an indicator to measure the quality of budget implementation’s performance from the compatibility of planning, the effectiveness of activities implementation, the efficiency of activity implementation and the obedient to regulations. The purpose of this research is to analyze the effect of the obedient of units to IKPA in accordance with the distribution of Binoplast’s budget support. This research is using mix method and test of instruments research, test of the classic, test of linear and partial and simultaneous, while for qualitative data use the triangulation of interviews. This research will get the result: (1) The obedient of regulations have a strong correlation with the financial management. (2)The effectiveness of the implementation have a strong correlation with the financial management, (3) The efficiency of the implementation have a strong correlation with the financial management (4) The compatibility between planning and implementing the activity have a strong correlation with the financial management. Based on the result, it can be concluded by following IKPA’s indicators it can support the distribution of support Binoplast.
PENGARUH KEPUASAN KERJA TERHADAP PEMBERDAYAAN MELALUI PENGALAMAN KERJA PERUSAHAAN TELEKOMUNIKASI
Authors: Wardhana, MM. Erik
Published: August 2020

The background of this research examines the effects of job satisfaction and work experience on employee-desire for empowerment. The objectives of this research was analyzed the effect of job satisfaction on empowerment, the effect of job satisfaction on work experience, the effect of work experience on empowerment. A sampling with purposive sampling techniques of two hundred Employee’s in Telecommunication company as the respondents provided the data that were analyzed for this study. Using a sub-set of the sample consisting of was used to test three hypothesized relationships in the model. Data analysis in this research was used Structural Equation Model (SEM) to test the  independent variables influence the dependent variable.  The findings help to explain failures in organizational efforts to empower workers by demonstrating the critical role of job satisfaction and work experience behaviors in heightening employee-desire for empowerment.
PENGARUH KOMPETENSI DAN LINGKUNGAN KERJA TERHADAP KINERJA KARYAWAN PT. HEXINDO ADIPERKASA
Authors: Astuti Kartika Dwi , Setiorini Amanda
Published: August 2020

This study aims to analyze the effect of competence and work environment on employee performance at PT. Hexindo Adiperkasa Tbk. This is a quantitative descriptive study using primary data by giving questionnaires to employees of PT. Hexindo Adiperkasa Tbk, located in the Pulo Gadung Industrial Estate, Jakarta, discussed on Jl. Goat Island II Kav.I-II.No.33. From a population of 1,500 employees, a total sample of 94 respondents was obtained using the Slovin formula. The technique used to take samples is the random sampling method and the type of data used is heterogeneous. The analytical tool used in this study is multiple linear regression. The results show there is a positive and significant effect simultaneously between competence and work environment on employee performance. Partially, competence has a significant influence on employee performance, as well as work environment variables.
PENGARUH KARAKTERISTIK INDIVIDU DAN FAKTOR LINGKUNGAN TERHADAP KEPUTUSAN PEMBELIAN (Studi Pada Pembelian Produk Asuransi Jiwa Unit Link Di Jakarta)
Authors: Krisnawati Devi
Published: August 2020

This research use descriptive research with quantitative approach. There are three variables that are used in this research: Individual Differences, Environmental Factors and Buying Decision. The collection of data obtained through online questionnaires, which were distributed randomly in Jakarta. The sample in this research was 100 respondents. The sampling technique of this research is random sampling. The data analysis uses descriptive analysis and multiple linear regressions. The results in this research showed that Individual Differences and Environmental Factors simultaneously affecting Buying Decision significantly. The other results showed that Individual Difference and Environmental Factors partially affecting Buying Decision significantly. Based on the result of this research, it’s better for Insurance Company to considerate people personal individual differences and also environmental factors to strengthen the sales of unit link product.
EVALUASI RISK DAN RETURN PERUSAHAAN SEKTOR PERTANIAN
Authors: Rahmawantari Dhistianti Mei
Published: August 2020

The purpose of this study is to analyze the which listed companies in Agriculture Sector at Indonesia Stock Exchange  has the most optimal financial performace . The population of this study are companies listed in Agriculture Sector at Indonesia Stock Exchange during January 2017 to December 2019.. The research sample used purposive sampling. The data  sourced is monthly stock price downloaded from the Indonesia Yahoo Finance website. The analytical method used is a comparative analysis model. The methods studied are Risk Adjusted Return, Sharpe Ratio, Treynor Ratio and Jensen Alpha Ratio. The findings of this study is PT. Sampoerna Agro Tbk. (SGRO) has the most optimal financial performance, followed by  PT. Sinar Mas Agro Resources and Tech Tbk (SMAR) and PT. Perusahaan Prkbn Lndn Smtr Indnsa Tbk. (LSIP) during the periode of the research.
PENGARUH TINGKAT SUKU BUNGA DEPOSITO TERHADAP DANA PIHAK KETIGA DI BANK BJB CABANG RANGKASBITUNG
Authors: Jamaluddin Jamaluddin , Tabrani Ahmad , Muksin Muksin
Published: August 2020

The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of deposit interest rates on third party funds in BJB Bank, Branch Rangkasbitung. Data collected is secondary data. Data analysis techniques using simple linear regression. The results indicated that the deposit interest rate had a negative and significant effect on third party funds in BJB Bank Branch Rangkasbitung.
PENGARUH KEPEMIMPINAN DAN KOMUNIKASI TERHADAP KINERJA KARYAWAN PT. BPJS KETENAGAKERJAAN KANTOR WILAYAH DKI JAKARTA
Authors: Noor, M.Si. Muhammad Irawan
Published: August 2020

The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of leadership and communication on the performance of PT. DKI Jakarta Regional Office BPJS Employment. The research method used is descriptive quantitative method using a survey system. The population in this study were employees at PT. DKI Jakarta Regional Office BPJS, totaling 30 employees. Researchers took and used all populations to be sampled using the method of multiple linear regression analysis and simple. The results showed that 1). Together leadership and communication greatly affect the performance of employees at PT. DKI Jakarta Regional Office BPJS Employment,      2). That leadership influences employee performance at PT. DKI Jakarta Regional Office BPJS Employment. 3). The results showed that communication affects the performance of employees at PT. DKI Jakarta Regional Office BPJS Employment.