bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Molecular Basis of Modulating Adenosine Receptors Activities
Authors: Mahmod Al-Qattan Mohammed Nooraldeen , Mordi Mohd Nizam
Published: March 2019

Modulating cellular processes through extracellular chemical stimuli is medicinally an attractive approach to control disease conditions. GPCRs are the most important group of transmembranal receptors that produce different patterns of activations using intracellular mediators (such as G-proteins and Beta-arrestins). Adenosine receptors (ARs) belong to GPCR class and are divided into A1AR, A2AAR, A2BAR and A3AR. ARs control different physiological activities thus considered valuable target to control neural, heart, inflammatory and other metabolic disorders. Targeting ARs using small molecules essentially works by binding orthosteric and/or allosteric sites of the receptors. Although targeting orthosteric site is considered typical to modulate receptor activity, allosteric sites provide better subtype selectivity, saturable modulation of activity and variable activation patterns. Each receptor exists in dynamical equilibrium between conformational ensembles. The equilibrium is affected by receptor interaction with other molecules. Changing the population of conformational ensembles of the receptor is the method by which orthosteric, allosteric and other cellular components control receptor signaling. Herein, the interactions of ARs with orthosteric, allosteric ligands as well as intracellular mediators are described. A quinary interaction model for the receptor is proposed and energy wells for major conformational ensembles are retrieved.
Serum Thiol-Disulphide Levels in Epileptic Pediatric Patients
Authors: Halil Halit , Tuygun Nilden , Aksoy Erhan , Erel Ozcan , Karacan Can Demir
Published: March 2019

Background:

Epilepsy is a serious clinical condition characterized by recurrent seizures.
Oxidative stress plays an important role in the etio-pathogenesis of epilepsy. Measurements of
serum thiol and disulfide levels were used to evaluate the antioxidant status of the body.

Objective:

The aim of this study was to determine serum levels of thiol and disulfide in epileptic
pediatric patients.

Methods:

Ninety patients, 54 epilepsy and 36 controls were included in the study. Serum levels of
native thiol total thiol and disulfide were measured and disulfide/native, disulfide / total thiol and
native thiol/ total thiol ratios were calculated. Hence, the ratios of disulfide/ native thiol, disulfide /
total thiol and native thiol/ total thiol were calculated.

Results:

Serum levels of native thiol, total thiol and disulfide were significantly lower in the
epilepsy group than the control group. The ratio of disulfide/native thiol and disulfide / total thiol
were significantly higher in the study group than the control group. As well as, the native thiol /
total thiol ratio was lower in the epilepsy group than the control group. Native thiol, total thiol and
disulfide were significantly lower in the epilepsy group who were taking anti-epileptic drugs than
those who were not taking anti-epileptic drugs.

Conclusion:

We demonstrated a meaningful relationship between oxidative stress markers and
epilepsy in pediatric patients.
Stew in its Own Juice: Protein Homeostasis Machinery Inhibition Reduces Cell Viability in Multiple Myeloma Cell Lines
Authors: de Oliveira Mariana B. , Sanson Luiz F.G. , Eugenio Angela I.P. , Barbosa-Dantas Rebecca S.S. , Colleoni Gisele W.B.
Published: March 2019

Introduction:

Multiple myeloma (MM) cells accumulate in the bone marrow and produce enormous quantities of immunoglobulins, causing endoplasmatic reticulum stress and activation of protein handling machinery, such as heat shock protein response, autophagy and unfolded protein response (UPR).

Methods:

We evaluated cell lines viability after treatment with bortezomib (B) in combination with HSP70 (VER-15508) and autophagy (SBI-0206965) or UPR (STF- 083010) inhibitors.

Results:

For RPMI-8226, after 72 hours of treatment with B+VER+STF or B+VER+SBI, we observed 15% of viable cells, but treatment with B alone was better (90% of cell death). For U266, treatment with B+VER+STF or with B+VER+SBI for 72 hours resulted in 20% of cell viability and both treatments were better than treatment with B alone (40% of cell death). After both triplet combinations, RPMI-8226 and U266 presented the overexpression of XBP-1 UPR protein, suggesting that it is acting as a compensatory mechanism, in an attempt of the cell to handle the otherwise lethal large amount of immunoglobulin overload.

Conclusion:

Our in vitro results provide additional evidence that combinations of protein homeostasis inhibitors might be explored as treatment options for MM.
Tryptanthrin Analogues as Inhibitors of Enoyl-acyl Carrier Protein Reductase: Activity against Mycobacterium tuberculosis, Toxicity, Modeling of Enzyme Binding
Authors: Duca Gheorghe , Pogrebnoi Serghei , Boldescu Veaceslav , Aksakal Fatma , Uncu Andrei , Valica Vladimir , Uncu Livia , Negres Simona , Nicolescu Florica , Macaev Fliur
Published: March 2019

Background:

High numbers of infection with resistant forms of Micobacterium tuberculosis
(Mtb) contribute to a constant growing demand in new highly active and effective therapeutics. Current
drug discovery efforts directed towards new antituberculosis agents include the development of new inhibitors
of enoyl-acyl carrier protein reductase (InhA) that do not require activation by the specific enzymes.
Tryptanthrin is a known inhibitor of Mtb InhA and its analogues are investigated as potential
agents with antimycobacterial efficiency.

Objective:

The main objective of the presented research was to develop a new group of tryptanthrin analogues
with good inhibition properties against Mtb.

Methods:

Synthesis of new derivatives of 5H-[1,3,4]thiadiazolo[2,3- b]quinazolin-5-one and evaluation
of their activity against Mtb, as well as acute and chronic toxicity studies were carried out. Molecular
modeling studies were performed to investigate the binding mechanisms of the synthesized ligands with
InhA. Binding energies and non-covalent interactions stabilizing the ligand-receptor complexes were
obtained from the results of molecular docking.

Results:

The most active compound in the obtained series, 2-(propylthio)-5H-[1,3,4]thiadiazolo[2,3-
b]quinazolin-5-one, exhibited the superior inhibition activity (up to 100%) against mycobacterial growth
at MIC 6.5 µg/mL, showed good affinity to the InhA enzyme in docking studies and demonstrated a
very low per oral toxicity in animals falling under the category 5 according to GHS classification.

Conclusions:

2-(propylthio)-5H-[1,3,4]thiadiazolo[2,3-b]quinazolin-5-one can be further explored for
the development of a new series of compounds active against Mtb.
Synthesis, Screening and Docking Analysis of Hispolon Pyrazoles and Isoxazoles as Potential Antitubercular Agents
Authors: Balaji Neduri V. , HariBabu Bollikolla , Rao Vanga U. , Subbaraju Gottumukkala V. , Nagasree Kurre P. , Kumar Muthyala M.K.
Published: March 2019

Background:

Hispolons are natural products known to possess cytoprotective, antioxidant and anti-cancer activities. We have found recently anti TB activity in these compounds. Efforts were made to optimize the structure with bioisosteric replacement of 1,3-diketo functional group with the corresponding pyrazole and isoxazole moieties.

Objective:

The goal of this paper is designing new hispolon isoxazole and pyrazole and the evaluation of their biological activities.

Methods:

The designed compounds were prepared using classical organic synthesis methods. The anti- TB activity was evaluated using the MABA method.

Results:

A total of 44 compounds were synthesized (1a- 1v and 2a-2v) and screened for anti TB activity and antibacterial activity. The compounds 1b and 1n showed the highest potency with MIC 1.6µg/mL against M. tuberculosis H37Rv.

Conclusion:

Bioisosteric replacement of 1,3-diketo functional group in hispolons with pyrazole or isoxazole rings have resulted in potent anti TB molecules. Docking simulations of these compounds on mtFabH enzyme resulted in a clear understanding of bioactivity profiles of these compounds. Docking scores are in good agreement with the anti TB activity obtained for these compounds. Computational studies and in vitro screening results indicate mtFabH as the probable target of these compounds.
Chemically Modified Electrodes in Electrochemical Drug Analysis
Authors: Kaya Sariye I. , Karabulut Tutku C. , Kurbanoglu Sevinç , Ozkan Sibel A.
Published: March 2019

Electrode modification is a technique performed with different chemical and physical methods using various materials, such as polymers, nanomaterials and biological agents in order to enhance sensitivity, selectivity, stability and response of sensors. Modification provides the detection of small amounts of analyte in a complex media with very low limit of detection values. Electrochemical methods are well suited for drug analysis, and they are all-purpose techniques widely used in environmental studies, industrial fields, and pharmaceutical and biomedical analyses. In this review, chemically modified electrodes are discussed in terms of modification techniques and agents, and recent studies related to chemically modified electrodes in electrochemical drug analysis are summarized.
A Sensitive Chromatographic Method for Hyaluronate Quantification Applied to Analyze the Desorption Behavior on Contact Lenses
Authors: Chang Wan-Hsin , Liu Pei-Yi , Jiang Yuan-Ting , Hsu Yuan-Hao Howard
Published: March 2019

Background:

Sodium hyaluronate (NaHA) is generally supplemented in products related to contact lenses for increasing comfort during wearing. The quantity of sodium hyaluronate and the material of lenses affect the retention of sodium hyaluronate on the contact lenses.

Methods:

We developed a convenient and sensitive but unconventional chromatographic method to quantify sodium hyaluronate and analyze its release behavior from contact lenses. The reverse-phase chromatography eluted sodium hyaluronate with high molecular masses in the shortest time and could separate salt and small compounds from sodium hyaluronate.

Results:

This method could accurately quantify sodium hyaluronate with diverse molecular sizes. Because sodium hyaluronate was eluted in a narrow time frame, sensitivity was significantly enhanced, and the limit of detection of this method was 0.45 μg/mL. According to this quantitation method, the attached quantity of sodium hyaluronate is related to the water content of the material. Furthermore, a material test indicated that the release efficiency of sodium hyaluronate depends on the material of lenses. Nonionic Polymacon had a longer half-life in the sodium hyaluronate release curve than negative Methafilcon A and silicone hydrogel.

Conclusion:

This hyaluronate quantification method is a fast, sensitive and accurate method, making it suitable for the in vitro hyaluronate research without further derivatization.
Units and Methods of Proteolytic Activity Determination
Authors: Rawski Rafał Ireneusz , Sanecki Przemysław Tomasz , Kalembkiewicz Jan
Published: March 2019

Background:

In order to organize and give a better understanding of the existing population of protease activity units together with their respective methods of enzymatic activity assessment, there is a need of their clear classification system.

Results and Conclusion:

The following system has been proposed: Enzyme Centered Units (ECU) equivalent to Enzyme Process Unit notation; Protein Centered Units (PCU) equivalent to Protein Process Unit notation; Legal Authority and Enzyme Centered Units (LAECU) equivalent to Enzyme Centered Units system additionally related to a legal authority or an organization. The suitable ways for the mutual conversion of commonly used units and their conversion into the standard SI units have been included. A convenient gravity/spectrophotometer test of proteolytic activity with the use of three protein types has also been proposed. The test gives high degree of confidence of the experimental determination for a wide spectrum of protease activity in samples of plant origin. The whole paper allows both theoretical and practical orientation in the range of different proteolytic activity units as well as in the methods of their determination.
Non-uremic Calciphylaxis: A Rare and Late Adverse Reaction of Warfarin
Authors: Patel Dhruvkumar M. , Patel Mukundkumar V. , Patel Akash D. , Kaklotar Jignesh C. , Patel Greshaben R. , Patel Maitri M.
Published: March 2019

Background:

Calciphylaxis is a complex dermatological lesion of micro vascular calcification that is typically presented as panniculitis with gangrenous painful lesions having uremic and non-uremic causes.

Case Report:

We present a case of a 48-year old male with a history of paroxysmal atrial fibrillation and hypertension taking amlodipine 5 mg and warfarin 5 mg daily for the last 26 months. The patient had a 6- months history of painful swelling followed by necrotic skin ulcer over the right leg. His remarkable examination findings were right leg tender ulcer with surrounding erythema and secondary sepsis. His hemogram, metabolic profile and connective tissue diseases work up were unremarkable except leucocytosis and raised inflammatory markers. His local part radiological and skin biopsy findings were suggestive of calciphylaxis.

Results and Conclusion:

In our case, warfarin and amlodipine were culprit drugs for the lesion, but Naranjo score (warfarin 7and amlodipine 1) speculate warfarin as a probable adverse reaction of warfarin. The lesion was cured with local wound treatment after discontinuation of warfarin. The physician should be aware of this rare cutaneous disorder of systemic origin for proper management.
The Study of Cellular Mechanism of Triptolide in the Treatment of Cancer, Bone Loss and Cardiovascular Disease and Triptolide’s Toxicity
Authors: Wang Youhan , Wang Biao , Yang Xiaobin
Published: March 2019

Triptolide (TPL), the active component of Tripterygium wilfordii Hook F (Twhf) has been used
to treat cancer and bone loss conditions for over two hundred years in traditional Chinese medicine
(TCM). In this paper, we reviewed the specific molecular mechanisms in the treatment of cancer, bone
loss and cardiovascular disease. In addition, we analyze the toxicity of TPL and collect some optimized
derivatives extracted from TPL. Although positive results were obtained in most cell culture and
animal studies, further studies are needed to substantiate the beneficial effects of TPL.
Lead Optimization Resources in Drug Discovery for Diabetes
Authors: Tiwari Pragya , Katyal Ashish , Khan Mohd F. , Ashraf Ghulam Md. , Ahmad Khurshid
Published: March 2019

Background:

Diabetes, defined as a chronic metabolic syndrome, exhibits global prevalence and phenomenal rise worldwide. The rising incidence accounts for a global health crisis, demonstrating a profound effect on low and middle-income countries, particularly people with limited healthcare facilities.

Methods:

Highlighting the prevalence of diabetes and its socio-economic implications on the population across the globe, the article aimed to address the emerging significance of computational biology in drug designing and development, pertaining to identification and validation of lead molecules for diabetes treatment.

Results:

The drug discovery programs have shifted the focus on in silico prediction strategies minimizing prolonged clinical trials and expenses. Despite technological advances and effective drug therapies, the fight against life-threatening, disabling disease has witnessed multiple challenges. The lead optimization resources in computational biology have transformed the research on the identification and optimization of anti-diabetic lead molecules in drug discovery studies. The QSAR approaches and ADMET/Toxicity parameters provide significant evaluation of prospective “drug-like” molecules from natural sources.

Conclusion:

The science of computational biology has facilitated the drug discovery and development studies and the available data may be utilized in a rational construction of a drug ‘blueprint’ for a particular individual based on the genetic organization. The identification of natural products possessing bioactive properties as well as their scientific validation is an emerging prospective approach in antidiabetic drug discovery.
Insights into the Role of DNA Methylation and Protein Misfolding in Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Ahmed Sara M. , Johar Dina , Ali Mohamed Medhat , El-Badri Nagwa
Published: March 2019

Background:

Diabetes mellitus is a metabolic disorder that is characterized by impaired
glucose tolerance resulting from defects in insulin secretion, insulin action, or both. Epigenetic modifications,
which are defined as inherited changes in gene expression that occur without changes in gene
sequence, are involved in the etiology of diabetes.

Methods:

In this review, we focused on the role of DNA methylation and protein misfolding and their
contribution to the development of both type 1 and type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Results:

Changes in DNA methylation in particular are highly associated with the development of
diabetes. Protein function is dependent on their proper folding in the endoplasmic reticulum. Defective
protein folding and consequently their functions have also been reported to play a role. Early treatment
of diabetes has proven to be of great benefit, as even transient hyperglycemia may lead to pathological
effects and complications later on. This has been explained by the theory of the development of a
metabolic memory in diabetes. The basis for this metabolic memory was attributed to oxidative stress,
chronic inflammation, non-enzymatic glycation of proteins and importantly, epigenetic changes. This
highlights the importance of linking new therapeutics targeting epigenetic mechanisms with traditional
antidiabetic drugs.

Conclusion:

Although new data is evolving on the relation between DNA methylation, protein misfolding,
and the etiology of diabetes, more studies are required for developing new relevant diagnostics
and therapeutics.
Reversible Nematostatic Effect of Peganum harmala L (Nitrariaceae) on Meloidogyne javanica
Authors: MAYAD EL HASSAN , BASAID KHADIJA , FURZE JAMES NICHOLAS , HEIMEUR NIAMA , SENHAJI BTISSAM , CHEBLI BOUCHRA , HADEK MILOUD EL , MATEILLE THIERRY , HASSANI LALLA AMINA IDRISSI , FERJI ZAHRA
Published: March 2019

Meloidogyne javanica is considered as the most damaging nematode of vegetables in Morocco. Eco-friendly bionematicides are urgently required for its control. In vitro experiments were carried out to assess the direct effect of bioproducts of Peganum harmala against M. javanica. The bioassay showed extracts to be nematotoxic. Aqueous extracts of P. harmala exhibited reversible nematostatic activity. The estimated ID50 of the most active product in methanolic extracts was 368ppm. HPLC-MS of the methanolic extract revealed that total content of major alkaloids of P. harmala was approximately 12.162±0.637mg/g. Harmine (8.514±0.521mg/g) is the dominant alkaloid. In conclusion, Peganum harmala has a reversible nematostatic activity on second stage juveniles of M. javanica. The effect of P. harmala is due to its possession of a high content of β-carboline alkaloids, which warrant further experimentation. Bioproducts from P. harmala should be exploited through formulations for management of the root knot nematode.
A National Assessment of Access to Technology Among Nursing Home Residents: A Secondary Analysis (Preprint)
Authors: Powell Kimberly Ryan , Alexander Gregory Lynn , Madsen Richard , Deroche Chelsea
Published: March 2019

BACKGROUND

According to the National Center for Health Statistics, there are over 1.7 million nursing home residents in the United States. Nursing home residents and their family members have unique needs and stand to benefit from using technology empowering them to be more informed and engaged health care consumers. Although there is growing evidence for benefits of patient-facing technologies like electronic patient portals on patient engagement in acute and outpatient settings, little is known about use of this technology in nursing homes.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to report findings from a secondary analysis of data from a national nursing home study of information technology (IT) adoption, called IT sophistication. We describe the extent to which nursing homes (n=815) allow residents or their representatives to access technology including electronic health records, patient portals, and health information-exchange systems as well as the ability of the residents or representatives to self-report data directly into the electronic health record.

METHODS

We used descriptive statistics and regression techniques to explore relationships between information technology adoption (IT sophistication) and residents’ or their representatives’ access to technology. Covariates of location, bed size, and ownership were added to the model to understand their potential influence on the relationship between IT sophistication and resident access to technology.

RESULTS

Findings revealed that resident access to technology was a significant predictor of the nursing home IT sophistication (P<.001). The inclusion of covariates—nursing home location, bed size, and ownership—with their interactions produced a nonsignificant effect in the model. Residents’ or their representatives’ use of electronic health records and personal health records were both significant predictors of overall IT sophistication (P<.001).

CONCLUSIONS

As nursing homes continue to progress in technological capabilities, it is important to understand how increasing IT sophistication can be leveraged to create opportunities to engage residents in their care. Understanding the impact of health information technology on outcomes and which technologies make a difference will help nursing home administrators make more informed decisions about adoption and implementation.
A New Tool for Public Health Opinion to Give Insight Into Telemedicine: Twitter Poll Analysis (Preprint)
Authors: Vidal-Alaball Josep , Fernandez-Luque Luis , Marin-Gomez Francesc X , Ahmed Wasim
Published: March 2019

BACKGROUND

Telemedicine draws on information technologies in order to enable the delivery of clinical health care from a distance. Twitter is a social networking platform that has 316 million monthly active users with 500 million tweets per day; its potential for real-time monitoring of public health has been well documented. There is a lack of empirical research that has critically examined the potential of Twitter polls for providing insight into public health. One of the benefits of utilizing Twitter polls is that it is possible to gain access to a large audience that can provide instant and real-time feedback. Moreover, Twitter polls are completely anonymized.

OBJECTIVE

The overall aim of this study was to develop and disseminate Twitter polls based on existing surveys to gain real-time feedback on public views and opinions toward telemedicine.

METHODS

Two Twitter polls were developed utilizing questions from previously used questionnaires to explore acceptance of telemedicine among Twitter users. The polls were placed on the Twitter timeline of one of the authors, which had more than 9300 followers, and the account followers were asked to answer the poll and retweet it to reach a larger audience.

RESULTS

In a population where telemedicine was expected to enjoy big support, a significant number of Twitter users responding to the poll felt that telemedicine was not as good as traditional care.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results show the potential of Twitter polls for gaining insight into public health topics on a range of health issues not just limited to telemedicine. Our study also sheds light on how Twitter polls can be used to validate and test survey questions.
Real-Time Auditory Feedback–Induced Adaptation to Walking Among Seniors Using the Heel2Toe Sensor: Proof-of-Concept Study (Preprint)
Authors: Mate Kedar K.V. , Abou-Sharkh Ahmed , Morais José A. , Mayo Nancy E.
Published: March 2019

BACKGROUND

Evidence shows that gait training in older adults is effective in improving the gait pattern, but the effects abate with cessation of training. During gait training, therapists use a number of verbal and visual cues to place the heel first when stepping. This simple strategy changes posture from stooped to upright, lengthens the stride, stimulates pelvic and trunk rotation, and facilitates arm swing. These principles guided the development of the Heel2Toe sensor that provides real-time auditory feedback for each good step, in which the heel strikes first.

OBJECTIVE

This feasibility study aimed (1) to contribute evidence toward the feasibility and efficacy potential for home use of the Heel2Toe sensor that provides real-time feedback and (2) to estimate changes in gait parameters after five training sessions using the sensor.

METHODS

A pre-post study included 5 training sessions over 2 weeks in the community on a purposive sample of six seniors. Proportion of good steps, angular velocity (AV) at each step, and cadence over a 2- minute period were assessed as was usability and experience.

RESULTS

All gait parameters, proportion of good steps, AV, and duration of walking bouts improved. The coefficient of variation of AV decreased, indicating consistency of stepping.

CONCLUSIONS

Efficacy potential and feasibility of the Heel2Toe sensor were demonstrated.
Social Anxiety Management through Digital Manipulation of Faces: Two Crowdsourced Studies and One Gaze-Tracking Experiment (Preprint)
Authors: Dechant Martin , Wiley Katelyn , Mandryk Regan
Published: March 2019

BACKGROUND

Augmented reality (AR) and mixed reality offer novel opportunities for digital intervention design to manage social anxiety; for example, faces can be manipulated in real-time to help people avoid fixating on threatening faces and instead orient toward happy ones. However, because an intervention design using face manipulation will be based on underlying scientific models of anxiety and not be a digitization of existing therapies, preliminary research is needed to determine if face manipulation is an effective approach.

OBJECTIVE

To determine: Exp 1) if digitally manipulating angry expressions reduces their threat; Exp 2) if people orient faster to augmented happy faces and if these hold their attention longer; Exp 3) if digitally manipulating faces reduces anxiety after exposure to them and increases resilience to a subsequent stressor.

METHODS

We reduced the negativity of angry expressions by either obfuscating the eyes through digitally-added sunglasses or by blurring the entire face. We directed attention to positive faces either by adding particle effects around the face that leveraged motion to draw attention or through comical digitally-added features, similar to a SnapchatTM filter. Exp 1) We had participants (n=33) rate unfiltered and augmented faces for arousal, valence, happiness, and anger in an online study. Exp 2) We tested how long participants (n=20) took to orient toward augmented faces (compared to unfiltered) and how long they dwelled on them in a laboratory-based gaze-tracking study. Exp 3) We identified how exposure to augmented faces affected anxiety (compared to a control condition) and response to a subsequent stressor (n=226).

RESULTS

Exp 1) Ratings for arousal and anger were lower for blurred images (Parousal<.001; Panger<.001) and when sunglasses were added (Parousal =.04; Panger <.001). Exp 2) Augmenting images decreased time to first fixation (P<.001) and increased fixation duration (P<.001), regardless of whether particle effects or comic filters were used (Porient=.12, Pfixate=.17). Exp 3) After exposure to faces, blurring angry faces reduced state anxiety (P=.015). After exposure to a subsequent stressor, blurring angry faces reduced experienced negative affect (P=.03).

CONCLUSIONS

Blurring negative facial expressions and simultaneously directing attention to positive ones with motion particles was the most effective approach at reducing anxiety after a brief exposure in a face-viewing task. These results can inform the design of novel AR-based digital interventions for anxiety that manipulates faces based on a model of threat processing.

CLINICALTRIAL

N/A.
Isu Perubahan Iklim Dalam Konteks Keamanan Dan Ketahanan Nasional
Authors: Subiyanto Adi , Boer Rizaldi , Aldrian Edvin , Perdinan Perdinan , Kinseng Rilus
Published: March 2019

ABSTRACTClimat change (CC) which contributed to increased conflict/war had implicitly emerged in the IPCC’s 3rd and 4th reports (IPCC, 2001; 2007); meanwhile on the 5th report (IPCC, 2014) emphasized more on human security. The risk/impact of CC to human security was shown through interaction between livelihood, conflict, culture, and migration. The purpose of the stydy was to gained an understanding of the correlation between CC and the occurrence of conflict/war; knowing the  impacts of CC on national resilience; explaining the phenomenon of CC on national resilience; and explained the linkages between human security and national resilience.This research was done through conceptual and comparative approach.The results showed that CC did not contribute directly to the occurrence of conflict/war;the impact of CC disrupts people's livelihoods thereby reducing national resilience; CC could be viewed as a disturbance and/or threat; and basically national resilience and human security could be synchronized because both of them seeked to brought guarantee for the security, safety, and individual prosperity.ABSTRAK Perubahan iklim (PI) diasumsikan berkontribusi terhadap meningkatnya konflik/perang. Pandangan tersebut secara implisit telah muncul dalam laporan Panel Antarpemerintah tentang Perubahan Iklim(IPCC)ke-3 (IPCC TAR, 2001) dan ke-4 (IPCC AR4, 2007); sebaliknya pada laporan ke-5 (IPCC AR5, 2014) memfokuskan pada keamanan manusia. Skema risiko PI pada keamanan manusia ditunjukkan melalui interaksi antara mata pencaharian, konflik, budaya, dan migrasi. Penelitian ini untuk menjelaskan korelasi antara PI dengan terjadinya konflik/perang; menggambarkan dampak PI bagi ketahanan nasional (Tannas); menjelaskan isu PI ditinjau dari konsepTannas; dan menjelaskan keterkaitan antara  keamanan manusia dengan Tannas. Penelitian dilakukan melalui dua pendekatan, yaitu: pendekatan konseptual dan pendekatan komparatif.  Diperoleh hasil bahwa PI tidak berkorelasi langsung terhadap terjadinya konflik/perang; PI mengganggu mata pencaharian masyarakat, sehingga menurunkan Tannas; dalam konsep Tannas, PI merupakan gangguan dan atau ancaman; dan Tannas dapat disetarakan dengan keamanan manusia karena keduanya berupaya menghadirkan penjaminan keamanan, keselamatan, dan kesejahteraan individu.
Peran Pengasuhan Otoritatif Terhadap Patriotisme Remaja: Dengan Mediator Kepuasan Hidup Dan Nasionalisme
Authors: Dariyo Agoes
Published: March 2019

ABSTRACTThis study  aimed to found out the authoritative parenting role of parents to developed  adolescent nationalism and patriotism in the framework of national resilience. Quantitative research by taking data using a Likert scale measuring instrument in the form of questionnaires, namely authoritative parenting, life-satisfaction, nationalism and patriotism. The subjects involved in this study amounted to 186 adolescents (male = 99 and female = 87 female, with an average age of 18.1 years). Furthermore, the collected data were analyzed using statistical tests, namely logarithmic non-linear regression. The results showed that (a) parents' authoritative parenting played a significant role in developing adolescent nationalism and patriotism in the framework of achieving national resilience, (b) authoritative parenting parents played a significant role in achieving teen life satisfaction so that they also developed nationalism and patriotism in the framework of national resilience, (c) youth realized that the state hadfacilitated its citizens to had jobs so that parents were able to meet the needs of life for teenagers. Thus, they as teenagers were aware of being citizens who had nationalism and patriotism in their lives. ABSTRAKPenelitian ini bertujuan mengetahui peran pengasuhan otoritatif  orangtua untuk menumbuhkembangkan sikap nasionalismedan patriotisme remaja  dalam kerangka ketahanan nasional.Penelitian bersifat kuantitatif dengan pengambilan data menggunakan alat ukur skala Likert berupa kuesioner yaitu pola asuh otoritatif, kepuasan hidup, nasionalisme dan patriotisme. Subjek yang terlibat dalam penelitian ini berjumlah 186 remaja (laki-laki = 99 orang dan perempuan = 87 perempuan, dengan rerata usia 18,1 tahun). Selanjutnya, data yang terkumpul dianalisis dengan menggunakan uji statistik yaitu regresi non-linear logaritmik.Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa (a) pola asuh otoritatif orangtuaberperan secara signifikan dalam menumbuh-kembangkan sikap nasionalisme dan patriotismeremaja dalam kerangka mencapai ketahanan nasional, (b) pola asuh otoritatif orangtua berperan secara signifikan dalam mencapai kepuasan hidup remaja sehingga mereka pun akan menumbuhkembangkan sikap nasionalismedan patriotisme dalam kerangka ketahanan nasional, (c) remaja menyadari bahwa negara telah memfasilitasi warganya untuk memiliki pekerjaan sehingga orangtua  mampu memenuhi kebutuhan hidup bagi anak remaja. Dengan demikian,  mereka sebagai remaja sadar untuk menjadi warga-negara yang memiliki sikap nasionalisme dan patriotisme dalam hidupnya.
School Refusal Behaviour in Primary School Students: A Demographic Analysis
Authors: Balakrishnan Rukmani Devi , Andi Hari Krishnan
Published: March 2019

School Refusal Behaviour (SRB) is an action, which is in another word a child-motivated refusal to attend school or difficulty remaining in class for an entire day. The objective of this study was to identify whether there are any differences in the demographic factors regarding SRB in primary school students in Selangor. Quantitative survey method was adopted as the method of this study. The survey was conducted at the end of school term in 2016, and students were recruited from 20 primary schools in six districts in Selangor with a total of 915 students from Year 4 and Year 5 participating. The sample of students had been absent from school for more than 15% of school days in the current year. Demographic measures were implemented and the study showed a high incidence rate of SRB in primary school students in Selangor (94.9%). The analysis showed there were no gender differences although the SRB in both categories were high (M=3.9). Similarly, the study also found there were no significant differences between single parent and two-parents; and low-class and middle-class family with SRB; although the occurrence of SRB in both categories were high.
Developing guided inquiry-based ecosystem module to improve students’ critical thinking skills
Authors: Irwan Irwan , Maridi Maridi , Dwiastuti Sri
Published: March 2019

The availability of modules that are able to develop critical students' thinking skills has not been fulfilled. This study aimed to develop and determine the characteristics, feasibility, and effectiveness of guided inquiry-based ecosystem modules to improve students' critical thinking skills. This R&D research referred to Borg and Gall model with nine stages. The research instrument used was a test question sheet adapted from Facione. The data gained were analyzed using ANCOVA. The results of the study showed that: 1) the developed module was characterized with guided inquiry-based syntax and critical thinking skills aspect; 2) the module was declared feasible based on the gained validity scores i.e. 92.19 (very decent) from material expert, 81.90 (very decent) from learning expert, 78.57 (worthy) from linguist, 92.86 (very decent) from learning media expert, 92.36 (very decent) from practitioners, and 91.80 (very decent) from limited field test; 3) the student critical thinking skills achievement which treated by using the module was significantly higher compared to another class (F = 120.52; p-value < 0.05). It can be concluded that the developed module was feasible to be used in learning and effectively improved students' critical thinking skills.
The profile of students’ analytical skills in environmental issues of coastal area
Authors: Roshayanti Fenny , Wicaksono Azizul Ghofar Candra , Minarti Ipah Budi
Published: March 2019

Environmental issues needed a lot of attention especially from high school students, and their skill in solving environmental problem is important for the future. This research was aimed to discover a profile of students’ analytical skills toward environmental issues. Three hundred twenty-nine high school students in coastal area are involved. They had been given questionnaire about environmental issues. The result indicate that the tested students has 0.5690 score as adequate level of analytical skills. Thus, learning process need to be improved especially for environmental subject.
Concrete-faced rockfill dams: experience in study of stress-strain state
Authors: Soroka Vladislav B. , Sainov Mikhail P. , Korolev Denis V.
Published: March 2019

Introduction. At present the urgent problem in hydraulic construction is establishing the causes of crack formation in seepage-control reinforced concrete faces at a number of rockfill dams. For solving this problem the studies are conducted of stress-strain state (SSS) of concrete-faced rockfill dams which are fulfilled by different methods. Materials and methods. Gives a review and analysis of the results of studies of stress-strain state of concrete-faced rockfill dams (CFRD) fulfilled by different authors over the last 15 years. The results of analytical, experimental and numerical studies are considered. Descriptions are given of the models used for simulation of non-linear character of rockfill deformation at numerical modeling of dam SSS. Results. Analysis showed that solving the problem of CFRD SSS causes a number of methodological difficulties. At present the only method permitting study of CFRD SSS is numerical modeling. The rest methods do not permit considering the impact of important factors on SSS. Large complications are caused by scarce knowledge of rockfill deformation properties in real dams. Conclusions. It was revealed that at present SSS of reinforced concrete faces has been studied insufficiently. The results of conducted studies do not give full and adequate understanding about operation conditions of reinforced concrete faces. Impact of various factors on the face SSS has not been studied. Besides, there are contradictions in the results of studies obtained by different authors. Differences in the results are based on objective and subjective reasons. A considerable obstruction for numerical studies is complicated modeling of rigid thin-walled reinforced concrete face behavior at large deformations inherent to rockfill. The obtained results of studies often do not permit conducting full analysis of SSS of concrete-faced rockfill dams.
Organizational and technological modeling of the processes of the device of roofing coatings with modular system of greening
Authors: Korol Elena A. , Shushunova Natalia S.
Published: March 2019

Introduction. Presents an approach to the development of organizational-technological models of the processes of the device of operated roofing coatings with landscaping systems, which allow the systematization of constructive-technological solutions. Are given the the organizational and technological parameters of the device roofing with landscaping. At present, the problems associated with the study of organizational and technological parameters when constructing unconventional energy-saving engineering systems are not well understood. Materials and methods. Analyzed of scientific and technical studies of domestic and foreign scientists in the field of green building technologies in relation to roofing. Formulated determination of organizational and technological parameters of technological processes and technological operations in the production of coatings. The study applied methods of mathematical modeling, as well as methods of structural-functional modeling. Results. Determined the organizational and technological parameters of green roof coverings the composition and sequence of technological processes and operations for roofing coverings with landscaping systems. The work ordering of technological processes of the device of modular landscaping systems of operated roofing coatings has been made. Spatial-technological and functional models of technological processes of the device of operated roofing coatings with landscaping systems have been built, which allow revealing reserves and eliminating technological non-production interruptions in the course of work. Conclusions. Established that in the field of green building technologies there is a need to develop new standards and supplement the provisions of the regulatory framework containing guidelines that cover the design and construction processes with a detailed description of the organizational, technological and structural characteristics. The constructed spatial-technological and functional models of the technological processes of the device of the operated roofing coatings with landscaping systems make it possible to identify reserves and eliminate technological non-production interruptions in the production process.
Director liability and reckless trading: The criminal law as a tool of corporate governance
Authors: Quinn John
Published: March 2019

The problem with criminalising reckless risk taking in companies is that much of corporate law is designed to encourage risk taking. Separate legal personality and limited liability ensure that the personal assets of directors and members are protected from the claims of company creditors. This separation serves, among other things, to encourage the investment and the entrepreneurial risk taking necessary for companies, and ultimately a market economy, to be successful. If the criminal law inhibits such risk taking it could undermine corporate law and stifle corporate activity. This paper will explore the legal tensions between encouraging entrepreneurial risk taking and deterring reckless risk taking in companies. It will do this by analysing recent legal reforms and proposed legal reforms in England and Ireland
Corporations returns act: Who controls Canadian business?
Authors: Marceau Philippe
Published: March 2019

The aim of this ongoing study is to examine gender board diversity and more specifically the prevalence of women as directors and officers within corporations operating within Canada
Earnings quality in the insurance companies. A perspective view of the changes expected by IFRS 17
Authors: Arduini Simona
Published: March 2019

The goal of the paper is to investigate about the expected quality’s improvement of financial reporting in the Italian insurance sector when the IFRS 17 will be effective
The response of weedy sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) to nicosulfuron: An examination of vegetative parameters and acetolactate synthase activity
Authors: Bozic Dragana , Saric-Krsmanovic Marija , Matkovic Ana , Vranjes Filip , Jaric Snezana , Vrbnicanin Sava
Published: March 2019

Genetic and morphological interpopulation variability of weed species is often responsible for variable responses to herbicides. As weedy sunflower, an invasive form of Helianthus annuus L., possesses high morphological and genetic variability, very different responses of its populations to herbicides can be expected. This species is one of the dominant weed species in row crops, including maize, in many European countries in which nicosulfuron is intensively used for weed control. There are little available data about the response of this sunflower form to nicosulfuron or of the interpopulation variability of its response to other herbicides. The responses of three weedy sunflower populations to nicosulfuron were studied in field dose-response experiments, and acetolactate synthase (ALS) enzyme activity at different herbicide concentrations was determined in vitro. Interpopulation variability in the response to nicosulfuron was confirmed. Populations WS2 and WS3 were more that 20-fold and 30-fold less susceptible to nicosulfuron, respectively, than population WS1, based on fresh weight, whereas the differences were not so prominent based on other parameters, including plant height, leaf area and ALS activity, and ranged from 2 to 12-fold.
Characterization of glycidyl methacrylate based magnetic nanocomposites
Authors: Markovic Bojana , Spasojevic Vojislav , Dapcevic Aleksandra , Vukovic Zorica , Pavlovic Vladimir , Randjelovic Danijela , Nastasovic Aleksandra
Published: March 2019

Magnetic and non-magnetic macroporous crosslinked copolymers of glycidyl
methacrylate and trimethylolpropane trimethacrylate were prepared by
suspension copolymerization and functionalized with diethylenetriamine. The
samples were characterized by mercury porosimetry, scanning electron
microscopy with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM-EDS), Fourier
transform infrared spectroscopy analysis (FTIR-ATR), thermogravimetric
analysis (TGA), X-ray diffractometry (XRD), atomic force microscopy (AFM),
transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and SQUID magnetometry. The FTIR-ATR
analysis of synthesized magnetic nanocomposites confirmed the presence of
magnetite and successful amino- functionalization. Non-functionalized and
amino-functionalized nanocomposites exhibited superparamagnetic behavior at
300 K, with a saturation magnetization of 5.0 emu/g and 2.9 emu/g,
respectively. TEM analysis of the magnetic nanocomposite has shown that
magnetic nanoparticles were homogeneously dispersed in the polymer matrix.
It was demonstrated that incorporation of magnetic nanoparticles enhanced
the thermal stability of the magnetic nanocomposite in comparison to the
initial non-magnetic macroporous copolymer.
Optimization of volumetric efficiency of a small wankel engine using genetic algorithm
Authors: Zhang Yan , Liu Jinxiang , Zuo Zhengxing , Zhang Shuai
Published: March 2019

In this work, port crank angles strategies for maximizing engine volumetric efficiency of a commercial rotary engine are studied. The internal combustion engines computer program, which simulates an actual working processes, has been used. Overall performance characteristics such as the cycle efficiency, engine power are calculated by a mathematical model. The model is calibrated with data obtain from a measured in-cylinder pressure, and validated against the experimental data. In-take opening and closing time, exhaust opening and closing time are chosen as optimization variables when volumetric efficiency was taken as the objective function. First, the intake opening time is the only optimization variable and it can be found that intake opening time is in advance as engine speed is increased. Second, four variables including intake opening and closing, exhaust opening and closing have been taken as the optimization variables, a further increase in volumetric efficiency was obtained, with the highest gain being of 1.03% at 17000 rpm. But opening the exhaust opening very late will reduce the power.