bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Case-based learning through small private online course for surgical internship teaching during COVID-19 pandemic in China
Authors: Wang Junjie , Huang Xianzhe , Pan Ke , Yang Xin , Ren Da , Zhang Wenchao , Li Hui , Wu Hongtao , Kang Yijun , Li Zhihong , Chen Junxiang , Huang Tianlong
Published: September 2020

Background

In China, the outbreak of novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) was a severe public health emergency that postponed the spring-summer semester of schools and forced students to implement home quarantine to prevent community transmission. Surgical interns’ regular learning was seriously affected during the pandemic, and was almost impossible to carry out.
Methods

This study aims to explore a novel online medical teaching method during the COVID-19 pandemic. A 12-week case-based learning through small private online course was conducted for 108 medical students who were supposed to practice surgery at the Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University but were delayed because of the pandemic. At the end of the course, final test and questionnaire survey were completed. The scores of final tests were compared with those before pandemic of the same students when receiving traditional surgical internship teaching.
Results

The case-based learning through small private online course during the pandemic significantly increased the scores of students in the surgical basic knowledge(90.00 ± 4.76 vs. 85.81 ± 7.45, P = 0.003) and clinical analysis ability(89.55 ± 3.41 vs. 84.57 ± 5.07, P = 0.000), but decreased the scores of clinical operative skills(79.19 ± 5.52 vs. 85.28 ± 9.45, P = 0.002 ). According to the survey, 91.6% of the students thought it was necessary to carry out the online internship teaching and 88.9% of students were satisfied with this teaching method.
Conclusions

It was concluded that case-based learning through small private online course effectively minimized the impact of COVID-19 for surgical intern teaching by providing high-quality education.
Comparison of Oblique Lateral Interbody Fusion and Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion for Degenerative Lumbar Disease: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Tai-bang CHEN , Xiao-qing HE , Jing-long Liang
Published: September 2020

Aim: Both oblique lateral interbody fusion (OLIF) and transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF) are frequently used to treat degenerative lumbar disease. The purpose of this meta-analysis is to compare the radiologic and clinical outcomes between these two methods.Methods: Electronic databases, including PubMed, Web of Science and MEDLINE, were searched to identify relevant studies that compared OLIF and TLIF up to May 2020. The radiographic outcomes comprised of the disc height (DH), lumbar lordotic angle (LLA), disc angle (DA), fusion rate (FR), and foraminal height (FH). The secondary outcomes were length of hospital stay, operation time, estimated blood loss, visual analog scale (VAS), and Oswestry Disability Index (ODI). Data pooling and a meta-analysis with the random effects model were performed to evaluate the major results and conclusions. Results: A total of nine studies that involved 593 patients (271 patients in the OLIF group and 322 in the TLIF group) were included in the meta-analysis. Similar changes, in terms of disc height and fusion rate of >80%, were observed between the two groups. In comparing OLIF to TLIF, the OLIF group had less estimated blood loss, and a shorter operative time and hospital stay, with statistical difference. However, there was no significant difference in VAS and ODI between OLIF and TLIF.The meta-analysis suggested that TLIF is associated with better postoperative LLA, FH and DA, when compared to OLIF. However, these were not statistically significant (P>005).Conclusion: These results demonstrate that both OLIF and TLIF are similar in terms of the restoration of disc height and intervertebral fusion rate in the treatment of degenerative lumbar diseases. OLIF was superior to TLIF in terms of operation time, hospital stay and estimated blood loss. However, there was no advantage in restoring the sagittal balance and correcting the lordosis.
Mesenchymal Stem Cells Transplantation in Diabetic Kidney Diseases: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Lin Wenshan , Yang Qian , Chen Guangyong , Lin Shujun , Liao Chunling , Zhou Tianbiao
Published: September 2020

Background: Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) therapy shows great promise for diabetic kidney diseases (DKD) patients. Researches have been carried out on this topic in recent years. The main thrust of this paper is to evaluate the therapeutic effects of MSCs on DKD by a meta-analysis and systematically review the mechanism therein. Method: An electronic search of PubMed and U.S National Library of Medicine (NLM) was performed for all articles about the MSCs therapy for DKD without species limitation up to January, 2020. Data were pooled for analysis with Stata SE 12. Result: MSCs-treated group showed great significant hypoglycemic effect at 1 week, 2 weeks, 3 weeks, 1 month, 2 months, 3 months and 6 months. Total hypoglycemic effect was analyzed (SMD=-1.954, 95%CI: -2.389 to -1.519, I²= 85.1%, p＜0.001). Total effects on serum creatinine (SCr), blood urea nitrogen (BUN) were analyzed, suggesting MSCs decreased the SCr and BUN and had an effect on amelioration of impaired renal function (SCr: SMD= -4.838, 95%CI: -6.789 to -2.887, I²= 90.8%, p＜0.001; BUN: SMD= -4.912, 95%CI: -6.402 to -3.422, I²= 89.3 %, p＜0.001). Creatinine clearance rate (CCr) was found decreased in the MSCs-treated group at 2 months. MSCs therapy decreased the excretion of urinary albumin. The fibrosis indicators were detected, and the result showed that transforming growth factor-β, Collagen-I, fibronectin and α-smooth muscle actin were seen decreased significantly in the MSCs-treated group. Conclusion: MSCs might improve animal body weight, glycemic control and pancreas islets function to secrete insulin, and reduced the SCr, BUN, CCr, urinary protein and renal hypertrophy. MSCs can reduce the expression of inflammatory mediators and alleviate renal fibrosis. MSCs therapy is a potential treatment for DKD.
Ethnozoological Study of Traditional Medicinal Animals and Their Products Used by The People of South Achefer District, Northern Ethiopia
Authors: Mola Misganaw Genet , Hailie Yibelu Yitayih , Terefe Hailu Birhanie , Kessete Reta Yeshambel
Published: September 2020

Background: There is an ancient history that human beings are familiar with use of animals and plants for food, cloth, medicine, etc. In Ethiopia, many ethnic communities which are dispersed all over the country has been totally dependent on local traditional medicinal system for their health care. Thus, the aim of this study was to take an ethnozoological field survey among different ethnic groups that live in South Achefer district. In order to document the ethno zoological information about animal and their parts/ products prevalent among the people in South Achefer district, a study was carried out from September, 2019 to January, 2020.Methods: Data was collected through questionnaire, focus group discussion and semi-structured questionnaire with 64 purposively selected respondents. Result: Ethnozoological data was recorded local name of the animals, animal products used, mode of preparation and administration Based on the ethno zoological survey, a total of 30 animal species were used in 42 different medicinal purposes including cold, night blindness, cough, paralysis and rheumatism and for other religious/and spiritual purposes. Based on the ethno zoological survey, 11 mammals, 7 birds, 4 reptile, 5 arthropods, 2 fish, 1 annelids are used in traditional zootherauptics in the study area. Furthermore, the milk of goat used to relieved cough has the highest FL (92%) and elephant teeth has the lowest FL (22%) used to treat bad spirit.Discussion: The results showed that ethno zoological practices have been an important alternative medicinal practice for the people residing in the study area. So, there is an urgent need to properly document to keep a record of the ethno zoological knowledge of the area. It is hoped that this information will be useful for further research in the field of ethno zoology, ethno pharmacology and conservation point of view.
Integrated Analysis Identifies and Validates a Novel Signature Based on Immune Related Gene Predicting Survival in Bladder Urothelial Carcinoma
Authors: Mao XuDong , Chen ShiHan , Li GongHui
Published: September 2020

BackgroundThis study aimed to develop a prognostic signature based on immune related gene(IRG) predicting survival for patients with bladder urothelial carcinoma(BLCA).Methods1534 IRG’s expression data of 996 BLCA patients form Gene Expression Omnibus database and The Cancer Genome Atlas database were used for development and validation of the prognostic signature. Univariate Cox regression model and Random Survival Forest Variable Hunting algorithm were employed to achieve the variable selection. The independently prognostic ability of the signature was validated by Multivariate Cox model and Kaplan–Meier analysis in independent datasets. A nomogram was established to improve prognosis stratification. The relationship between tumor-infiltrating immune cells and the signature was analyzed using data retrieved from EPIC resource.FindingsA prognostic model consisting of 10 IRGs was developed as our immune signature. Based on this signature, patients were separated into low- and high- risk groups with different survival in both training and validation sets(HR : range from 1.1 [95% CI: 1–1.2; p = 0.038] to 1.3 [95% CI: 1.3–1.5; p <0.001]). Multivariable analyses demonstrated that this signature was an independent prognostic predictor and was strongly associated with important clinicopathological factors. The signature also showed a significantly positive correlation with immune checkpoint molecules, and had a superior prognostic value compared with some important targets. In addition, our signature was found to correlate the enhancement of tumor microenvironment positively.ConclusionsThis signature predicts prognosis for BLCA patients, which may promote individualized treatment and provide potential targets for immunotherapy.
The 14-3-3 (YWHA) Proteins in Mammalian Reproduction
Authors: De Santanu
Published: September 2020

The 14-3-3 (YWHA or Tyrosine 3-Monooxygenase/Tryptophan 5-Monooxygenase Activation protein) is an acidic and homologous protein family involved in regulation of key biological events including cell cycle, signal transduction and development.  They are highly conserved and are expressed ubiquitously across a wide variety of species ranging from plants to animals.  Seven isoforms of 14-3-3 exist in mammals, which are encoded by separate genes, have tissue-specific, developmental stage-specific as well as isoform-specific presence and consequences.  It is known that these proteins play significant roles in mitosis of mammalian cells and meiosis of amphibians.  However, their effects on development and functioning of mammalian gonads and germ cells are not entirely delineated.  This paper, for the first time, provides a comprehensive review of the comparative expression, localization/distribution, binding interactions, and importance of the 14-3-3 proteins in gametogenesis and reproduction among multiple female and male mammalian species.  Thorough understanding of these proteins in oogenesis and spermatogenesis would help elucidate the physiological basis of fertility in mammals, including humans.
Strategies of Plant Biotechnology to Meet the Increasing Demand of Food and Nutrition in India
Authors: De Santanu
Published: September 2020

A groundbreaking application of biotechnology research during the recent past has been improvement of crop health and production.  India being one of the most rapidly developing countries with an enormous population and remarkable biodiversity, plant biotechnology promises significant potential to contribute to characterization and conservation of the biodiversity, increasing its usefulness. However, India’s green revolution was noted to be insufficient to feed the country's teeming millions. Therefore, novel approaches in crop biotechnology had to be aimed at ensuring better productivity and quality of cultivars.  This paper provides a comprehensive review of research undertaken mainly in the last couple of decades along with potential strategies in plant biotechnology focusing on specific grain and seed crops of key agricultural as well as dietary importance to meet the growing demand of food and nutrition in India, while also proposing potential application of relevant global research findings in the Indian context.  The analysis would help address the ever-increasing worldwide socio-economic necessity for greater food security, particularly during times of crisis such as the recent Coronavirus Infectious Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic.
Is Online Learning Accessible During COVID-19 Pandemic? Voices and Experiences of UIN Sunan Kalijaga Students with Disabilities
Authors: Ro'fah Ro'fah , Hanjarwati Astri , Suprihatiningrum Jamil
Published: September 2020

The study seeks to examine the voices and experiences of students with disabilities in navigating online learning during the COVID-19. Based on in-depth interviews with thirty-four students with various disabilities of UIN Sunan Kalijaga, this study attempts to answer how these students experiencing online learning, what challenges they encounter, and what strategies they are using to navigate this new way of learning. Results show most students prefer conventional face-to-face learning, compared to the online learning one. Students reported various challenges they experienced, the most important of which is the high cost of internet access. Other challenges include the inaccessibility of the e-learning system with respect to the platform of online learning and the learning activities. Students also concerned with the absence of supports that they normally received from the university’s disability office (Pusat Layanan Difabel/ PLD). These challenges have encouraged students to seek help from family members, peers, and lecturers.Abstrak Studi ini berupaya untuk mengevaluasi pendapat dan pengalaman siswa penyandang cacat dalam menavigasi pembelajaran online selama COVID-19. Berdasarkan wawancara mendalam dengan tigapuluh empat mahasiswa dengan berbagai kecacatan di UIN Sunan Kalijaga, penelitian ini mencoba menjawab bagaimana para siswa ini mengalami pembelajaran online, tantangan apa yang mereka hadapi, dan strategi apa yang mereka gunakan untuk menavigasi cara belajar baru ini. Hasil menunjukkan sebagian besar siswa lebih suka pembelajaran tatap muka konvensional, dibandingkan dengan pembelajaran online. Siswa melaporkan berbagai tantangan yang mereka alami, yang terpenting adalah tingginya biaya akses internet. Tantangan lain termasuk tidak dapat diaksesnya sistem e-learning sehubungan dengan platform pembelajaran online dan kegiatan pembelajaran. Siswa juga khawatir dengan tidak adanya dukungan yang biasanya mereka terima dari Pusat Layanan Difabel (PLD) universitas. Tantangan-tantangan ini telah mendorong siswa untuk mencari bantuan dari anggota keluarga, teman sebaya, dan dosen
Islamic Education and Da’wah Strategies Based on Culture in the Ilir-ilir Song of Sunan Kalijaga
Authors: Mulyono Mulyono
Published: September 2020

The purpose of this study is to examine the educational and da’wah strategies based on the culture in the Song Ilir-ilir Sunan Kalijaga. By using library research methods and content analysis techniques, the results as follows: 1) With a cultural approach, Sunan Kalijaga invites and educates the public to embrace Islam as a new religion that came to Java around the 13-15 century AD. 2).  Persuasively, Sunan Kalijaga made people aware of Islam by carrying out the five pillars of Islam while leaving all beliefs and deeds prohibited by Islam. 3) With the metaphor of Blimbing (star fruit).  Sunan Kalijaga assures people that whoever obeys the commands of Islam, will find peace and happiness in living in this world and the hereafter. Educators and preachers in various events create the Ilir-ilir Song as a cultural-based educational and da’wah strategy that remains popular in the millennial era. AbstrakTujuan penelitian ini untuk mengkaji strategi pendidikan dan dakwah Islam berbasis kultural dalam lagu Ilir-ilir Sunan Kalijaga. Dengan menggunakan metode penelitian kepustakaan (library research) dan teknik analisis isi (content analisys), maka hasilnya dapat disimpulkan berikut: 1) Dengan pendekatan kultural, Sunan Kalijaga mengajak dan mendidik masyarakat untuk memeluk Islam sebagai agama baru yang datang ke tanah Jawa sekitar abad 13-15 M. 2) Secara persuasif, Sunan Kalijaga menyadarkan masyarakat untuk memeluk Islam dengan melaksanakan rukun Islam yang lima seraya meninggalkan segala keyakinan dan perbuatan yang dilarang Islam; 3) Dengan metafora buah blimbing, Sunan Kalijaga menyakinkan masyarakat bahwa barangsiapa yang taat menjalankan perintah Islam, kelak mendapatkan ketentraman dan kebahagiaan hidup di dunia dan di akhirat. Para pendidik maupun juru dakwah dalam berbagai event mengkreasi lagu Ilir-ilir sebagai strategi pendidikan dan dakwah berbasis kultural yang tetap populer di era millineal.
Uncertainties in runoff projection and hydrological drought assessment over Gharesu basin under CMIP5 RCP scenarios
Authors: Ashrafi S. M. , Gholami H. , Najafi M. R.
Published: September 2020

Hydrological drought plays an important role in planning and managing water resources systems to meet increasing water demands due to population growth. In this study, the effects of climate change on the hydrological drought characteristics of the Gharasu basin, as one of the major sub-basins of the Karkheh river basin, are investigated. This river basin has experienced severe droughts, and floods, in recent years. The uncertainties in projected drought conditions are characterized based on a suite of 34 general circulation models (GCMs). Based on hydrological simulations over the historical period, 12 GCMs are selected to estimate projected runoff values and the corresponding streamflow drought index (SDI) in the future period. The ‘run theory’ is applied to evaluate the drought characteristics under Representative Concentration Pathways (RCPs) 4.5 and 8.5 emission scenarios. Results show that uncertainties of drought projection under RCP8.5 are higher than under RCP4.5, where among different drought characteristics, the maximum uncertainty is detected for drought severity and maximum drought duration. Moreover, the uncertainty of drought projection in wet periods is greater than that in dry periods.
Energy efficiency of staged reverse osmosis (RO) and closed-circuit reverse osmosis (CCRO) desalination: a model-based comparison
Authors: Li Simeng , Duran Karla , Delagah Saied , Mouawad Joe , Jia Xudong , Sharbatmaleki Mohamadali
Published: September 2020

Reverse osmosis (RO) technologies have been widely implemented around the world to address the rising severity of freshwater scarcity. As desalination capacity increases, reducing the energy consumption of the RO process per permeate volume (i.e., specific energy consumption) is of particular importance. In this study, numerical models are used to characterize and compare the energy efficiency of one-stage continuous RO, multi-stage continuous RO, and closed-circuit RO (CCRO) processes. The simulated results across a broad range of feed salinity (5,000–50,000 ppm, i.e., 5–50 g kg−1) and recovery (40%–95%) demonstrate that, compared with the most common one-stage continuous RO, two-stage and three-stage continuous RO can reduce the specific energy consumption by up to 40.9% and 53.6%, respectively, while one-stage and two-stage CCRO can lead to 45.0% and 67.5% reduction, respectively. The differences in energy efficiencies of various RO configurations are more salient when desalinating high-salinity feed at a high recovery ratio. From the standpoints of energy saving and capital cost, the simulated results indicate that multi-stage CCRO is an optimal desalination process with great potential for practical implementation.
Impact of monovalent cations on the separation performance of graphene oxide membrane for different organic matters
Authors: Qi Huabiao , Zhao Xin , Li Han , Che Yuang , Wang Can
Published: September 2020

Graphene oxide (GO) membrane has become a promising membrane due to its advantages of high flux, good anti-pollution performance, and controllable cost. Since wastewater contains inorganic ions and organic substances, the effect of inorganic ions on the removal of organic matters has attracted attention. This study investigated the impact of monovalent cations (Na+ and K+) on the removal of different organic matters by GO membranes. The results showed that the removal by GO membranes of both macromolecular organic compounds (humic acid, sodium alginate, and bull serum albumin) and small molecular organic substances (new coccine, methyl orange, and methylene blue) were high (>75%). The coexisting Na+ caused the increase in flux and the decrease in removal of small molecular organic matters, while the impact on the removal of macromolecular organic matters was weak. The impact of the coexisting K+ was weaker than Na+. With the crosslinking of ethylenediamine, the structure of GO membrane was more stable. The impacts of Na+ on the flux and separation performance of crosslinked membranes were less than that of non-crosslinked membranes. This suggests that crosslinked GO membrane has more potential for practical wastewater treatment.
Protective Role of Morus nigra Leaf Extracts against Murine Infection with Eimeria papillata
Authors: Thagfan Felwa A. , Al-Megrin Wafa A. , Al-Shaebi Esam M. , Al-Quraishy Saleh , Dkhil Mohamed A.
Published: September 2020

Background:

Eimeriosis is a parasitic intestinal infection that affects the poultry industry;
it is responsible for economic losses on a global scale.

Objective:

This study investigated the protective role of Morus nigra leaf extracts (ME) against Eimeria papillata infection
in mice.

Methods:

C57Bl/6 mice were divided into six groups. The first group was gavaged daily with 100
μL 0.9% NaCl. The second group was treated daily by oral gavage with 100 μL M. nigra leaf extracts
(ME) (200 mg/kg), while the third, fourth, fifth, and sixth groups were orally infected with
1000 E. papillata oocysts. The last three groups were daily treated for 5 days with 200, 400, and
800 mg/kg of ME, respectively. Samples of jejunum were obtained for examining the histopathological
changes as well as changes in the nitric oxide and catalase levels.

Results:

Infrared spectroscopy of ME showed the presence of several expected active classes of
phytochemical compounds. ME was able to reduce the E. papillata oocysts in mice feces by about
80% and decrease the infection-induced jejunal histopathological injuries. This was quantified using
the histological injury score. In addition, ME significantly recovered the changes in nitric oxide
and catalase levels.

Conclusion:

Our findings showed that the M. nigra extract has an antioxidant activity which protects
against murine eimeriosis. Further studies are required to determine the exact active compounds
in ME and their mode of action.
ATP Synthase Inhibitors as Anti-tubercular Agents: QSAR Studies in Novel Substituted Quinolines
Authors: Saxena Anil K. , Alam Muneer
Published: September 2020

Background:

Tuberculosis (TB) is a major infectious disease caused by Mycobacterium Tuberculosis.
As per the World Health Organization (WHO) report of 2019, there were 1.5 million deaths
in the year 2018, mainly because of multi- and extensively drug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR &
XDR-TB). Among several antitubercular drugs in clinical trials, bedaquiline (TMC207) is a highly
promising drug that was approved by the FDA in 2012 and marketed in 2016 for the treatment of multidrug
resistant TB in combination with other drugs. Bedaquiline acts on mycobacterial ATP synthase and
is highly effective in replicating as well as on dormant mycobacteria. Several series of substituted quinolines
have been reported with their antitubercular and ATP synthase inhibitory activity.

Methods:

To understand the role of physicochemical parameters like hydrophobicity, electronic and
steric factors in eliciting the biological response, the Quantitative structure-activity relationship (QSAR)
studies have been carried out using the computed parameters as independent variable and activity (-log
IC50/MIC) as the dependent variable.

Results:

The developed QSAR models in terms of positively contributing Molar Refractivity (MR) and
negatively contributing Partition Coefficient (PC) and Connolly Molecular Area (CMA) parameters
have high predictivity as also shown on external data set and the mean value of the computed 3D parameters
of enantiomers may be used in QSAR analysis for racemic compounds.

Conclusion:

These results are also substantiated by pharmacophore modeling. The similar dependence
of antitubercular activity against whole-cell M.Tb.H37Rv on MR and CMA suggests ATP synthase as
the main target for antitubercular activity and the QSAR models may be useful in the identification of
novel antitubercular agents.
Exploring the Potential Inhibition of Candidate Drug Molecules for Clinical Investigation Based on their Docking or Crystallographic Analyses against M. tuberculosis Enzyme Targets
Authors: Dey Rishita , Nandi Sisir , Samadder Asmita , Saxena Aaruni , Saxena Anil Kumar
Published: September 2020

Tuberculosis (TB) is a devastating disease responsible for millions of humans’ deaths worldwide.
It is caused by a mycobacterial organism, the tubercle bacillus or Mycobacterium tuberculosis.
Although TB can be treated, cured and can be prevented if patients take prescribed medicines, scientists
have never come close to wiping it out due to a sharp rise in the incidence of multidrug-resistant (MDR)
and extensively drug-resistant (XDR) mycobacterium strains. Due to long regimen treatment and emergence
of MDR and XDR-TB, it is urgent to re-engineer and reposition old drugs for developing new
antimycobacterial entities with novel mechanisms of action to achieve effective TB control even against
the resistant forms of TB. To combat the dreadful MDR and XDR-TB, potential targets are being extensively
searched for the last couple of years for the design and discovery of active potential antitubercular
chemotherapeutics. To explore the disease virulence, potential new tubercular target enzymes such as
InhA, MmpL3, ATP synthase, DprE1, QcrB and MenA have been taken into consideration in the present
study and the structure-based design of the corresponding target inhibitors which are under clinical
investigation has been attempted to identify structural features for the discovery of new chemical entities
(NCEs) having specificity towards MDR and XDR Mycobacterium tuberculosis (M. tuberculosis).
Synthesis, Molecular Docking and Molecular Dynamics Simulation of 2- Thioxothiazolidin-4-One Derivatives against Gp41
Authors: Tamiz Nahid , Mostashari-Rad Tahereh , Najafipour Aylar , Claes Sandra , Schols Dominique , Fassihi Afshin
Published: September 2020

Introduction:

Gp41 and its conserved hydrophobic groove on the N-terminal heptad repeat
region are attractive targets in the design of HIV-1 entry inhibitors. Linearly extended
molecules have shown potent anti-HIV-1 activity for their effective interactions with the gp41 binding
pocket. Rhodanine ring attached to substituted pyrrole or furan rings has been proved a preferred
moiety to be inserted inside the molecular structure of the gp41 inhibitors.

Objectives:

Based on the previous findings we are going to describe some rhodanine derivatives in
which a substituted imidazole ring is introduced in place of the pyrrole or furan rings. The compounds’
flexibility is increased by inserting methylene groups inside the main scaffold.

Methods:

Molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulations approaches were exploited to investigate
the chemical interactions and the stability of the designed ligands-gp41 complex. All compounds
were synthesized and their chemical structures were elucidated by 1HNMR, 13CNMR,
FTIR and Mass spectroscopy. Biological activities of the compounds against HIV-1 and HIV-2 and
their cellular toxicities against the T-lymphocyte (MT-4) cell line were determined.

Results:

All the designed compounds showed proper and stable chemical interactions with gp41 according
to the in silico studies. The results of the biological tests proved none of the compounds active
against HIV-1 replication in cell cultures.

Conclusion:

Since all the studied compounds were potently toxic for the host cell; it was therefore
not possible to assess their anti-HIV activities.
miRNAs Modulate the Dichotomy of Cisplatin Resistance or Sensitivity in Breast Cancer: An Update of Therapeutic Implications
Authors: Safi Asma , Bastami Milad , Delghir Soheila , Ilkhani Khandan , Seif Farhad , Alivand Mohammad R.
Published: September 2020

Cisplatin has a broad-spectrum antitumor activity and is widely used for the treatment of various
malignant tumors. However, acquired or intrinsic resistance of cisplatin is a major problem for patients during
the therapy. Recently, it has been reported Cancer Stem Cell (CSC)-derived drug resistance is a great challenge
of tumor development and recurrence; therefore, the sensitivity of Breast Cancer Stem Cells (BCSCs) to cisplatin
is of particular importance. Increasing evidence has shown that there is a relationship between cisplatin
resistance/sensitivity genes and related miRNAs. It is known that dysregulation of relevant miRNAs plays a
critical role in regulating target genes of cisplatin resistance/sensitivity in various pathways such as cellular
uptake/efflux, Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition (EMT), hypoxia, and apoptosis. Furthermore, the efficacy of
the current chemotherapeutic drugs, including cisplatin, for providing personalized medicine, can be improved
by controlling the expression of miRNAs. Thus, potential targeting of miRNAs can lead to miRNA-based therapies,
which will help overcome drug resistance and develop more effective personalized anti-cancer and cotreatment
strategies in breast cancer. In this review, we summarized the general understandings of miRNAregulated
biological processes in breast cancer, particularly focused on the role of miRNA in cisplatin resistance/
sensitivity.
Preparation and Surface Modification of Polymeric Nanoparticles for Drug Delivery: State of the Art
Authors: Joshi Garima , Patel Mitali , Chaudhary Deepak , Sawant Krutika
Published: September 2020

Nanotechnology is one of the emerging fields in drug delivery for targeting the drug to
the site of action. The polymeric nanoparticles as drug delivery systems have gained importance
for the last few decades. They offer advantages over liposomes, dendrimers, emulsions etc. Surface
engineering of polymeric nanoparticles is widely utilized to effectively target the cells in various
diseases such as cancer, HIV infection. Surface modified nanoparticles offer various advantages
such as targeted drug delivery, reduction in side effects, dose reduction and improved therapeutic
efficacy. Moreover, they can aid in improving physical and biochemical properties, pharmacokinetic
and pharmacodynamic profiles of the drug. Surface modified polymeric nanoparticles can provide
targeted delivery of drugs into specific cells, especially when targets are intracellularly localized.
This approach of surface modification would be more advantageous for the delivery of various
anticancer, anti-inflammatory, anti-HIV drugs for more effective therapy. This review focuses
on the techniques used for the fabrication of polymeric nanoparticles, the material used for surface
modification and their applications.
Recent Patents on Greenhouse Cooling Techniques: A Review
Authors: Al-Ismaili Abdulrahim M. , Al-Maimani Asma M. , Al-Saadi Aaisha K. , Al-Kindi Fatma S. , Al-Manthri Ibtihal A. , Al-Jabri Khaled M. , Al-Dairi Mai K. , Al-Mahroqi Seham H.
Published: September 2020

Background:

Greenhouse cooling is very essential during warm conditions to extend the
cropping season and offer year-round production. Although fan-pad systems are widely utilized for
greenhouse cooling in arid climates, they have many drawbacks mentioned by researchers. Thus,
finding the best cooling system had attracted the attention of many researchers and inventors in such
climates.

Objective:

This paper aims to review the recent patents of greenhouse cooling methods suitable for
arid climates.

Methods:

The most relating patents on greenhouse cooling technologies were discussed and analyzed.

Results:

A total of 46 patents were reviewed, covering over 21 years, and the majority of them
(73.9%) were patented in China, followed by the USA (15.2%), worldwide (4.3%), Japan (2.2%),
Russia (2.2%) and Austria (2.2%). The patents were divided into three categories; preventive (8 patents),
corrective (33 patents) and combined (5 patents) greenhouse cooling techniques. In the preventive
techniques, i.e. avoiding heat load in greenhouses, patents involving shading mechanisms
were dominant because it is well known that shading reduces solar radiation penetration as the largest
heating source in greenhouses. In the corrective techniques, i.e. removing the accumulated heat,
patents on evaporative cooling mechanisms were dominant but their suitability for arid climates is
hindered with high humidity and water scarcity. In the combined techniques, i.e. including both preventive
and corrective techniques, patents are very comprehensive and thus implementable in hightech
commercial greenhouses. Some innovative patents involving refrigerative cooling, desiccation,
solar power and multi-systems were also highlighted.

Conclusion:

Patents implementing preventive cooling techniques alone are insufficient in arid climates
due to the extremely high ambient temperatures in the hot months. Similarly, patents involving
evaporative cooling methods are constrained by high humidity and water scarcity in arid conditions.
Therefore, patents combining preventive and corrective techniques are more energy- and water-
efficient. We recommend future work to focus on desiccant-indirect evaporative cooling methods
as they can overcome the high humidity limitations in many arid areas.
HRVATSKI SEPARATIZAM OD 1918. DO 1991.
Authors: Todorovic Vladica
Published: September 2020

Dejan Jović, profesor Fakulteta političkih znanosti u Zagrebu i Fakulteta političkih nauka u Beogradu, napisao je u knjizi ,,Rat i mit – politika identiteta u suvremenoj Hrvatskoj“, da je u trenutku prvih višestranačkih izbora u Hrvatskoj 1990. tek 15 % etničkih Hrvata bilo za potpunu nezavisnost, dok ih je 64 % bilo za konfederalno preuređenje Jugoslavije i da je rat koji je usledio bio rezultat želje jednog specifičnog dela tadašnjih elita, dizajnera identiteta i političkih vođa nacionalističke orijentacije da se Hrvati odvoje od Jugoslavije i Srba, a Srbi od Hrvata a u nekim slučajevima, i s vremenom sve više i od Jugoslavije. Pretpostavljamo da je želja Hrvata za nezavisnom državom duga i da ni 1990. nisu bili za Jugoslaviju. Istražili smo pokušaje Hrvata da formiraju federalnu jedinicu u Kraljevini SHS i Kraljevini Jugoslaviji, stvaranje banovine Hrvatske u Kraljevini Jugoslaviji, Nezavisne države Hrvatske u Drugom svetskom ratu, i Republike Hrvatske u komunističkoj Jugoslaviji. Da bi sa njenim raspadom Hrvatska postala nezavisna država. U radu smo koristili komparativnu i metodu analize sadržaja.
SAVREMENE TENDENCIJE U PROCESU DONOŠENJA ODLUKA U MEĐUNARODNIM ORGANIZACIJAMA: UPOTREBA KONSENZUSA I NJEGOVA OGRANIČENJA
Authors: Puric Nemanja
Published: September 2020

Rad analizira savremene tendencije u razvoju procedura donošenja odluka koje su u skladu sa evolutivnom prirodom međunarodnih organizacija. Konsenzus kao procedura donošenja odluka kreirana je u cilju ispravljanja mana jednoglasnosti i većinskog glasanja koje su bile dominantne procedure u prva dva perioda razvoja međunarodnih organizacija. Rad analizira široku upotrebu konsenzusa u međunarodnim organizacijama, njegove prednosti i mane kao i proces njegove institucionalizacije. S obzirom na činjenicu da je konsenzus u određenom broju slučajeva neformalni oblik donošenja odluka, u radu se koristi novi institucionalizam kao pristup proučavanja problema. Na taj način se uzimaju u obzir i ishodi koje proizvode i neformalne institucije. Rad daje praktičan doprinos analizom upotrebe konsenzusa kao procedure donošenja odluka u Organizaciji ujedinjenih nacija i Organizaciji za bezbednost i saradnju u Evropi kao primeru organizacije koja koristi konsenzus kao jedinu proceduru donošenja odluka.
ПРАВОВЫЕ СИСТЕМЫ МЕЖГОСУДАРСТВЕННЫХ ОБРАЗОВАНИЙ НА ПОСТСОВЕТСКОМ ПРОСТРАНСТВЕ
Authors: Василевич Г.А. , Забейворота А.И. , Чмыга О.В.
Published: September 2020

Межинтеграционные объединения играют значительную роль в системе существующего миропорядка. В статье исследовано современное состояние и определены основные направления развития правовых систем межгосударственных образований постсоветского пространства.
El indio lobo. Manuel Quintín Lame en la Colombia moderna
Authors: Espinosa Arango Mónica
Published: September 2020

El artículo ofrece interpretaciones del pensamiento de manuel quintín Lame, estructuradas en tres ejes temáticos: 1) la humanidad; 2) la historia; y 3) la escritura y la mímica. Se analiza a Lame como un “otro inapropiado e inapropiable”, explorando formas de interpretación feministas del “sujeto”, preocupaciones de la poscolonialidad en torno a la alterización y construcción del Otro dentro de taxonomías raciales y tecnologías de poder de la colonialidad/modernidad y, finalmente, el interés de la teoría del discurso por la construcción de sentidos y significados dentro de interacciones culturales inmersas en relaciones de dominación-resistencia y regímenes disciplinarios de poder y saber. Se explora la “transculturalidad” de dicho pensamiento, su carácter “descolonizador”, sus dinámicas de auto-representación y traducción, su ambivalencia, no-originalidad y reinvención cultural.
Urbanización por invasión. Conflicto urbano, clientelismo y resistencia en Córdoba (Colombia)
Authors: Ocampo Gloria Isabel
Published: September 2020

El artículo trata sobre la relación entre clientelismo y movimientos sociales en una región de la costa Caribe colombiana. Se trazan las transformaciones históricas que dan por resultado la migración rural hacia centros urbanos y su fuerte vínculo con la cultura política local, las adaptaciones de los pobladores a la política local y de esta a la política nacional. Incluye la etnografía de un movimiento social que desafía al estado y los parámetros que definen nacional y localmente la política, aunque en sus definiciones identitarias y estratégicas recurre a conceptos y recursos idiosincrásicos y a los suministrados por el estado u otras entidades que ejercen hegemonía. Enfatiza en cómo los movimientos sociales pueden utilizar definiciones locales de justicia, legalidad e ilegalidad y acomodarse a circunstancias y fuerzas que constriñen la expresión política y la protesta social.
Profil Kemampuan Pemecahan Masalah Siswa SMA Pada Materi Ekosistem
Authors: Rahma Ira , Windyariani Sistiana , Suhendar Suhendar
Published: September 2020

This study aims to describe the profile of problem-solving abilities on each indicator according to Pannen (in Rusmono, 2012). The research used is descriptive method. The sample used is 35 students who have studied the ecosystem material. The sample selection technique used in this study was purposive sampling, which is a sample collection technique with certain considerations, subject taking is not based on strata, random or regional but is based on the existence of certain objectives. This research was conducted in FEBRUARY 4th week of 2020. The instrument used was a test question for the description of problem-solving abilities, amounting to 12 questions. The results showed that the problem-solving ability profile had a percentage of 59% in the sufficient category. The results include three categories, namely; 1) the good category consists of indicators of identifying problems by 75% and collecting 66% of data, 2) sufficient categories consisting of indicators of solving problems based on data by 55%, choosing ways to solve problems by 61%, and planning to implement problems by 57% . 3) the less category consists of indicators of analyzing data / problems by 40%.

Abstrak. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mendeskripsikan profil kemampuan pemecahan masalah pada setiap indikator menurut Pannen (dalam rusmono, 2012). Penelitian yang digunakan ialah metode deskriptif. Sampel yang digunakan sebanyak 35 siswa yang telah mempelajari materi ekosistem. Teknik pemilihan sampel yang di gunakan dalam  penelitian ini adalah menggunakan purposive sampling, yaitu teknik pengumpulan sampel dengan pertimbangan tertentu, pengambilan subjek bukan di dasarkan atas strata, random atau daerah tetapi di dasarkan atas adanya tujuan tertentu. Penelitian ini dilaksanakan pada bulan FEBRUARI minggu ke-4 tahun 2020. Instrumen yang digunakan berupa soal tes uraian kemampuan pemecahan masalah yang berjumlah 12 soal. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan profil kemampuan pemecahan masalah memiliki persentase sebesar 59% dengan kategori cukup. Adapun hasil tersebut mencakup tiga ketegori ialah; 1) Kategori baik terdiri dari indikator mengidentifikasi masalah sebesar 75% dan mengumpulkan data 66%, 2) Kategori cukup terdiri dari indikator memecahkan masalah berdasarkan data sebesar 55%, memilih cara untuk memecahkan masalah masalah sebesar 61%, dan merencanakan penerapan masalah sebesar 57%. 3) Kategori kurang terdiri dari indikator menganalisis data/masalah sebesar 40%.
How Do Reporting Frequency and Analyst Perceptions of Real Activities Manipulation (RAM) Influence Managers' RAM Behavior?
Authors: Tang Fengchun , Eller Christopher Kevin , Cereola Sandra J.
Published: September 2020

Real Activities Manipulation (RAM) is an earnings management technique that is increasingly being used by managers. RAM is a purposeful action by managers to manipulate earnings by altering operations, finances, and investments. In this study, we investigate the effects of reporting frequency and the knowledge that financial analysts view RAM negatively on the likelihood of management engaging in RAM. Based on the results of an online experiment with 73 experienced managers and MBA students, we find that more frequent financial reporting significantly reduces managers' likelihood to engage in sales-related RAM when they are also informed that analysts view RAM negatively. As a result, the combination of more frequent reporting and the knowledge that analysts view RAM negatively, taken together, may assist in deterring managers' engagement in sales-related RAM.
A Multifunctional Role of Leucine-Rich α-2-Glycoprotein 1 in Cutaneous Wound Healing Under Normal and Diabetic Conditions
Authors: Liu Chenghao , Teo Melissa Hui Yen , Pek Sharon Li Ting , Wu Xiaoting , Leong Mei Ling , Tay Hui Min , Hou Han Wei , Ruedl Christiane , Moss Stephen E. , Greenwood John , Tavintharan Subramaniam , Hong Wanjin , Wang Xiaomeng
Published: September 2020

Delayed wound healing is commonly associated with diabetes. It may lead to amputation and death if not treated in a timely fashion. Limited treatments are available partially due to the poor understanding of the complex disease pathophysiology. Here, we investigated the role of leucine-rich α-2-glycoprotein 1 (LRG1) in normal and diabetic wound healing. First, our data showed that LRG1 was significantly increased at the inflammation stage of murine wound healing, and bone marrow–derived cells served as a major source of LRG1. LRG1 deletion causes impaired immune cell infiltration, reepithelialization, and angiogenesis. As a consequence, there is a significant delay in wound closure. On the other hand, LRG1 was markedly induced in diabetic wounds in both humans and mice. LRG1-deficient mice were resistant to diabetes-induced delay in wound repair. We further demonstrated that this could be explained by the mitigation of increased neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) in diabetic wounds. Mechanistically, LRG1 mediates NETosis in an Akt-dependent manner through TGFβ type I receptor kinase ALK5. Taken together, our studies demonstrated that LRG1 derived from bone marrow cells is required for normal wound healing, revealing a physiological role for this glycoprotein, but that excess LRG1 expression in diabetes is pathogenic and contributes to chronic wound formation.
Impact of Quality Improvement (QI) Program on 5-Year Risk of Diabetes-Related Complications: A Simulation Study
Authors: Shao Hui , Fonseca Vivian , Furman Roy , Meneghini Luigi , Shi Lizheng
Published: September 2020

OBJECTIVE

We successfully implemented the American Diabetes Association’s (ADA) Diabetes INSIDE (INspiring System Improvement with Data-Driven Excellence) quality improvement (QI) program at a university hospital and safety-net health system (Tulane and Parkland), focused on system-wide improvement in poorly controlled type 2 diabetes (HbA1c >8.0% [64 mmol/mol]). In this study, we estimated the 5-year risk reduction in complications and mortality associated with the QI program.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

The QI implementation period was 1 year, followed by the postintervention period of 6 months to evaluate the impact of QI on clinical measures. We measured the differences between the baseline and postintervention clinical outcomes in 2,429 individuals with HbA1c >8% (64 mmol/mol) at baseline and used the Building, Relating, Assessing, and Validating Outcomes (BRAVO) diabetes model to project the 5-year risk reduction of diabetes-related complications under the assumption that intervention benefits persist over time. An alternative assumption that intervention benefits diminish by 30% every year was also tested.

RESULTS

The QI program was associated with reductions in HbA1c (−0.84%) and LDL cholesterol (LDL-C) (−5.94 mg/dL) among individuals with HbA1c level >8.0% (64 mmol/mol), with greater reduction in HbA1c (−1.67%) and LDL-C (−6.81 mg/dL) among those with HbA1c level >9.5% at baseline (all P < 0.05). The implementation of the Diabetes INSIDE QI program was associated with 5-year risk reductions in major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) (relative risk [RR] 0.78 [95% CI 0.75–0.81]) and all-cause mortality (RR 0.83 [95% CI 0.82–0.85]) among individuals with baseline HbA1c level >8.0% (64 mmol/mol), and MACE (RR 0.60 [95% CI 0.56–0.65]) and all-cause mortality (RR 0.61 [95% CI 0.59–0.64]) among individuals with baseline HbA1c level >9.5% (80 mmol/mol). Sensitivity analysis also identified a substantially lower risk of diabetes-related complications and mortality associated with the QI program.

CONCLUSIONS

Our modeling results suggest that the ADA’s Diabetes INSIDE QI program would benefit the patients and population by substantially reducing the 5-year risk of complications and mortality in individuals with diabetes.