bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cyberfeminisme: Counter atas Komodifikasi Tubuh Perempuan di Media Baru
Authors: Umami Rizka Hidayatul
Published: December 2020

Keberadaan media baru telah mendorong setiap individu untuk ikut aktif berinteraksi di dalamnya. Cyberfeminisme merupakan salah satu gagasan penting yang lahir dari keberadaan media baru tersebut. Di mana media baru menjadi isu krusial yang diharapkan bisa menjadi wadah perempuan mencapai pembebasan. Namun, hadirnya media baru tidak lantas bisa secara otomatis menghapuskan adanya ketidakadilan gender di ruang publik. Problem baru muncul dari adanya usaha perempuan untuk secara total berdaya lewat ruang techno-budaya. Masalah tersebut hadir dalam bentuk komodifikasi tubuh perempuan dalam media baru, yang dilakukan oleh perempuan sebagai subjek. Sehingga yang terjadi justru pelanggengan patriarkhal dan kuasa pikiran laki-laki dalam media. Hal ini tentu menjadi pekerjaan rumah baru bagi para cyberfeminis. Tulisan ini fokus menguraikan bagaimana peran cyberfeminis dalam upaya meng-counter massifnya komodifikasi tubuh perempuan dalam media baru, yang juga terus dibayangi oleh diskursus maskulinitas atau dominasi laki-laki. Metode yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini adalah deskriptif-analitis, dengan menggunakan cyberfeminisme sebagai alat analisis. Adapun hasil penelitian ini mengungkapkan bahwa cyberfeminis setidaknya berhasil membuat jaringan literasi berbasis feminisme, eksis di media sosial sebagai upaya konter ideologi dari adanya discounted feminism oleh kapitalisme. Kata kunci: cyberfeminisme, media baru, komodifikasi, tubuh perempuan.
PELATIHAN ANTI BULLYING SEBAGAI UPAYA PENCEGAHAN BULLYING DI SEKOLAH
Authors: Sari Citra Ayu Kumala
Published: December 2020

Angka  perundungan atau bullying di Indonesia masih sangat tinggi dan sudah sangat mengkhawatirkan. Hampir di setiap sekolah terdapat kasus bullying. Termasuk di MTsN 2 Tulungagung masih banyak terdapat kasus bullying terutama bullying verbal. Selain itu juga maraknya cyber bullying yang sudah diluar pengawasan sekolah dan berdampak luarbiasa bagi para korban. Salah satu cara untuk memutus mata rantai bullying adalah dengan memberikan pemahaman secara komprehensif kepada siswa tentang apa itu bullying dan dampak dari bullying itu sendiri melalui sebuah pelatihan anti bullying. Pelatihan yang dilaksanakan berupa psikoedukasi anti bullying pada siswa MTsN 2 Tulungagung. Pelatihan dilaksanakan selama 2 hari yaitu 12 September 2019 dan 13 September 2019. Pelatihan diikuti 30 peserta perwakilan dari masing-masing kelas 7-9. Pelaksaan pelatihan diisi oleh dua narasumber dari IAIN Tulungagung.  Dengan adanya pelatihan ini diharapakan peserta mendapatkan wawasan mengenai bullying dan ketrampilan yang harus dimiliki untuk mencegah terjadinya bullying yang ada di sekolah
IMPLEMENTASI GAYA KEPEMIMPINAN TRANSFORMATIF DALAM PENINGKATKAN DAYA SAING PENDIDIKAN
Authors: Widodo Agus Purwo , Zuhri Saifudin , Djani Djani
Published: December 2020

Budaya organisasi pada tataran sekolah memerlukan pemimpin yang berkemampuan memobilisasi perkembangan dan perubahan yaitu melakukan kegiatan kreatif, menemukan strategi, metode, cara-cara, atau konsep-konsep yang baru dalam pengajaran agar pembelajaran bermakna dan melahirkan pendidikan yang berkualitas.

Berkenaan dengan hal tersebut maka diperlukan kepemimpinan transformatif sebagai upaya untuk menghasilkan pendidikan yang mampu berdaya saing dan menghasilkann peserta didik yang mempunyai integritas kepribadian, sikap disiplin, kreatif, inovatif, dan kompetitif. Profesionalitas kepemimpinan pendidikan sebagai pemimpin transformasional perlu memiliki kompetensi, transparansi, efisiensi, dan kualitas tinggi.

Strategi Pelaksanaan Kepemimpinan Transformatif   Kepala MI Perwanida Kota Blitar dan SD Islam Al Munawar Tulungagung dalam meningkatkan kebijakan daya saing pendidikan di lembaganya: (1) Di lembaga Madrasah/sekolah terjadi adanya kerjasama dengan wakil-wakilnya, guru-guru, dan staf dalam kerja tim (team work), sehingga memungkinkan terlaksananya peran kepemimpinan tim (team leadership); (2)  Di  lembaga Madrasah/sekolah  terjadi adanya peningkatan motivasi dan membangkitkan gairah kerja guru yang diorientasikan  pada terciptanya pertumbuhan personal dan profesional guru (personal and professional growth), sehingga memungkinkan terlaksananya peran kepemimpinan supervisi (supervisory leadership); (3) Di lembaga madrasah tercipta penataan organisasi madrasah, iklim hubungan yang bersifat loose coupling, dan mengubah struktur dan iklim birokrasi menjadi menyenangkan  (comfortable bureaucracy) atau profesional (professional bureaucracy) sehingga memungkinkan terlaksanya peran kepemimpinan organisasional (organizational leadership).
Spin-$\frac{1}{2}$ kagome Heisenberg antiferromagnet with strong breathing anisotropy
Authors: Jahromi Saeed , Orus Roman , Poilblanc Didier , Mila Frédéric
Published: December 2020

We study the zero-temperature phase diagram of the spin-1/2 Heisenberg model with breathing anisotropy (i.e., with different coupling strength on the upward and downward triangles) on the kagome lattice. Our study relies on large scale tensor network simulations based on infinite projected entangled-pair state and infinite projected entangled-simplex state methods adapted to the kagome lattice. Our energy analysis suggests that the U(1) algebraic quantum spin-liquid (QSL) ground-state of the isotropic Heisenberg model is stable up to very large breathing anisotropy until it breaks down to a critical lattice-nematic phase that breaks rotational symmetry in real space through a first-order quantum phase transition. Our results also provide further insight into the recent experiment on vanadium oxyfluoride compounds which has been shown to be relevant platforms for realizing QSL in the presence of breathing anisotropy.
Çağdaş Türk Gezgin Yazarlarına Göre Mesafenin Mekânı Dönüştürmesi
Authors: İMAMOĞLU Abdulfettah
Published: December 2020

Gezi edebiyatı ile ilişkilendirilen kavramlardan biri olan mesafe kavramı, gezi deneyiminin yapısal olgularından birini meydana getirmektedir. Gezgin yazarın bir mekân ile arasına koyduğu mesafe, onun bir yandan alışageldiği mekânın gerçekliğini dışarıdan görebilmesine, diğer yandan alışık olmadığı bir mekânda, kendine ait ve daha önce yaşamadığı bir var olma ve hissediş deneyimi yaşamasına olanak veren bir durum olmaktadır. Mekân ile bağlantılı olarak ele alınabilecek bu şekilde bir mesafe olgusu, dünya ve benlik algısına dair olağan ötesi bir perspektifi mümkün kılmaktadır. Bu noktada, gezi edebiyatı eserleri, içerdikleri tanımsal önermeler ve bireysel değerlendirmeler aracılığıyla, oldukça soyut bir nitelik taşıyan mesafe olgusunu böyle bir perspektiften irdelemeye olanak vermektedirler. Bu makalede, gezgin yazarın mekânlar arası mesafeye bakışını karşılaştırmalı edebiyat yöntemi ile yirmi birinci yüzyıl Türk gezi edebiyatı çerçevesinde ele alarak, bir gezi deneyimi bileşeni olarak kat edilen mesafenin mekânı nasıl dönüştürdüğü ve böylelikle gezgin yazara ne şekilde farklı bir var olma ortamı yarattığı, poetik bir yaklaşımla incelenecektir.
Mısır Baharı Sonrası Ülkenin Siyasî ve Politik Hareketliliğinin Kurgusal İzdüşümü: Bâbu’l-Hurûc ve İzzeddîn Şükrî Feşîr
Authors: ÇELENLİOĞLU Asiye
Published: December 2020

1974 yılında Huntigton’un “Üçüncü Dalga” olarak adlandırdığı demokratikleşme süreci başladığından buyana Doğu Avrupa, Doğu Asya ve Afrika’da demokrasiye geçen ülke sayısındaki artışa rağmen, otoriter rejimle yönetilen Orta Doğu ülkelerinin bu dalgadan etkilenmemesi dikkat çekicidir. 2010 yılında Tunus’ta başlayan halk ayaklanması diğer Ortadoğu ülkelerine sıçradığında demokratikleşmeye dair beklentiler, bölge ülkelerinin kendi iç ve dış dinamiklerinden kaynaklanan nedenler sonucu boşa çıkmış, bu hareketlilik yerini devam eden kaos ortamına bırakmıştır. Sosyal zeminden beslenen yazarların bu heyecanı dile getiren eserleri Mısır başta olmak üzere diğer ülke edebiyatlarında yer alırken okuyucu, devrimin tarih sayfalarına yansıyan nesnel ifadeleri yerine bu eylemlerde yer alan tarafların duygusal arka planında yolculuk yapma fırsatı elde etmiştir. Bu çalışma Mısır’da 2011 yılında meydana gelen devrimden bir yıl sonra kaleme alınan ancak; tarihi, siyasi ve politik perspektifin o güne kadar yaşanmışlığından hareketle ülkenin sekiz yıllık geleceğini kurgulayan Bâbu’l-Hurûc adlı romanı sosyolojik ve politik zeminde değerlendirmeyi hedeflemektedir.
Mecmûa-i İlâhiyât'ın MESTAP'a Göre Muhteva Tablosu
Authors: LİMON Sevgi
Published: December 2020

Birçok araştırmacı ve bilim insanının önemini vurguladığı birer kültür mirası niteliği taşıyan şiir mecmuaları, hâlen bir kısmı bilinmeyen şair ve şiirlerin ortaya çıkarılması ve değerlendirilmesi çalışmalarına katkı sağlaması açısından en önde gelen kaynaklardandır. Süleymaniye Kütüphanesi Mehmed Arif Mehmed Murad bölümü, 48 numaralı Mecmû‘a-i İlâhiyât da bu kaynaklar arasında yer almaktadır. İçine aldığı şairlerin yaşadığı yüzyıllar ve şiirlerin imla özellikleri göz önüne alınarak 16. yüzyıl sonu veya 17. yüzyıl başlarında derlendiği tahmin edilen mecmuada tertip tarihi ve mürettiple ilgili bir bilgiye yer verilmemiştir. 86 varaktan oluşan mecmuada 34 şaire ait 135 şiir bulunmakta ve geneli bir tarikata mensup olan tasavvuf şairlerinin ilahi aşk, pişmanlık, dünya kayıtlarından ayrılmak, mürşide bağlanmak vd. konulardaki ilahilerini barındırmaktadır. Mecmû‘a-i İlâhiyât'ın hem biçim hem içerik bakımından incelendiği ve MESTAP'a göre muhteva tablosunun hazırlandığı bu çalışmanın amacı, mecmua çalışmalarına ve MESTAP'a katkı sağlamaktır.
The impact of collaboration strategy in the field of innovation on the effectiveness of organizational structure of healthcare institutions
Authors: Grynko Tetiana , Shevchenko Tetiana , Pavlov Roman , Shevchenko Vladyslav , Pawliszczy Dariusz
Published: December 2020

The need for innovative development of healthcare institutions is determined by the necessity to increase the efficiency of organizational processes based on the formation of new models of cooperation, which will make it possible to get access to new technologies and knowledge. The goal of the study is to determine the parameters of the impact of innovative open cooperation strategy and the strategy of innovative closed cooperation of healthcare institutions on the effectiveness of their organizational structure in the context of dissemination and the use of knowledge. Simulation modeling was applied to generate the most effective organizational management structure in the context of innovative cooperation and knowledge exchange within the organizational processes “Inside-out” and “Inside-in”. It is substantiated that the strategies of innovative cooperation “Open Innovation/Closed Innovation” have a significant impact on the organizational structure of management of healthcare institutions in terms of the “degree of centralization” (Dci), “degree of mediation” (Dii), and “degree of centralization of powers” (Dpi). The values of the selected criteria range from 25,52% to 61,50% in the case of Dii, and from 34,53% to 52,63% in the case of Dci, which indicates a higher efficiency of organizational knowledge exchange processes in healthcare institutions, which adhere to the Open Innovation strategy of innovative cooperation. Therefore, there are significant differences in the effectiveness of the management’s organizational structure depending on the degree of openness of innovative cooperation of healthcare institutions. The strategy of innovative openness allows increasing the number and quality of connections in the context of knowledge exchange between the subjects (actors, agents) of the organizational structure (in a broad sense, considering internal and external levels of externality) of healthcare institutions, regardless of the distance between them and the level of similarity.
Reusability performance of green zinc oxide nanoparticles for photocatalysis of bathroom greywater
Authors: Yashni G. , Al-Gheethi Adel , Mohamed Radin , Al-Sahari Mohammed
Published: December 2020

This study aims to investigate the potential of green zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) in reusability performance for photocatalysis of bathroom greywater. It was found that ZnO NPs photocatalytic treatment of real bathroom greywater (RBGW) effluent reduces both the COD and BOD5 concentrations by 72.01, 62.75 and 57.79% (COD) and 70.18, 60.32 and 57.56% (BOD5) respectively for the first, second and third cycle. Meanwhile for the photocatalysis of ABGW, it was observed that COD and BOD5 were removed by 82.27, 68.27 and 60.96% (COD) and 82.91, 74.37 and 60.39% (BOD5) for the first, second and third cycle respectively. Besides, TSS and turbidity were reduced by 52.34, 46.85 and 37.98% (TSS) and 80.38, 67.65 and 56.81% (turbidity) respectively in RBGW and for ABGW, TSS and turbidity were reduced by 60.94, 52.37 and 41.95% (TSS) and 80.68, 72.63 and 69.91% (turbidity) for the first, second and third experimental run respectively. This designates that green ZnO NPs can be reused multiple times as an effective photocatalyst. However, ZnO NPs were used in the dispersed form, which causes difficulty in the separation of ZnO NPs from the greywater. Thus, further investigation in producing appropriate fixed film should be focused. Moreover, phytotoxicity analysis of V. radiate seeds in the treated ABGW and RBGW was not significantly different from their germination in water. This assured the less lethal nature of the degradation metabolites in greywater effluent. This investigation would be a solution to wastewater treatment plant for reusing photocatalyst in order to achieve the development of advanced and greener technologies.
Soil–water characteristic curves of extracellular polymeric substances-affected soils and sensitivity analyses of correlated parameters
Authors: Zhang Han , Bian Jianmin , Wan Hanli , Wei Nan , Ma Yuxi
Published: December 2020

Quantifying the ways in which biological activity may alter the hydraulic properties of soils (the soil-water characteristic curves; SWCCs) is vital for understanding and engineering water pollution and supply systems. The study used centrifugation and a sand funnel method to determine the SWCCs of pure sandy soils with different particle sizes and sandy soils mixed with different extracellular polymeric substance (EPS) analogs. The sensitivity of correlated parameters for SWCCs obtained using a van Genuchten (VG) model was analyzed by single-factor perturbation analysis. The results show the following. (1) Fine sand has the strongest water retention ability. (2) The more polysaccharide there is in the media, the stronger its water-holding capacity. Polysaccharide not only has its strong water-holding capacity, but also changes the structure of medium to increase water-holding capacity. The humic acid and protein components had little effect on the hydrodynamic properties of fine sandy soil. (3) Sensitivity analyses revealed that the saturated water content, θs, greatly affected the ability of solute transport to reach equilibrium concentrations. Therefore, it is essential to define the range of media particles and component content, and ensure the accuracy of VG model parameters in the practical application of soil media affected by biological activity.
Joint estimation of states and parameters of two-layer coastal aquifers based on ENKF
Authors: Huang Xiaohua , Liu Guodong , Chen Yu , Li Jun
Published: December 2020

Management of groundwater resources has become a source of heated discussion in coastal hydrogeology. Thus, we introduced an Ensemble Kalman Filter (ENKF) into a two-layer confined groundwater model based on the interactive operation between the MATLAB and GMS to investigate the capability of ENKF under complex conditions and obtain a relatively new forecasting method. ENKF was employed to assimilate and forecast groundwater levels, and invert the hydraulic conductivity (K) of the heterogeneous study area, where the initial values of K were obtained by using trial-and-error based on the two-period groundwater levels. After comparing the efficiencies in forecasting groundwater levels among ENKF, the modified model, and the initial model, four major conclusions could be drawn. ENKF converged fast when forecasting groundwater levels and the accuracy was high. Various convergent results would be represented by ENKF when K in different layers was observed in the same error. ENKF performed better than the initial simulation when monitored data subjected to a certain range of interferences. Forecasting accuracy in the middle of the study area could be enhanced by the large improvement degree of K through ENKF. Therefore, this analytical method could be a theoretical reference for groundwater resources management in coastal areas.
Organic zinc and vitamin E supplementation for broiler chickens under natural heat stress conditions
Authors: Gomes Pedro Eduardo Bitencourt , Lopes João Batista , Moreira Elvania Maria da Silva Costa , Merval Ramon Rego , Moreira Filho Miguel Arcanjo , Lemos Jane Gabriela Soares de
Published: December 2020

The objective was to evaluate the supplementation of organic zinc and vitamin E, isolated or in association, in the diet of broiler chickens from 22 to 42 days of age, under natural conditions of heat stress, on the productive performance, carcass, noble cuts, and abdominal fat yield. A group of 720 birds was housed at 22 days of age, distributed in random blocks with a 2x3 factorial design, with two levels of zinc in the organic form (0.0 mg/kg and 120 mg/kg), associated with three levels of vitamin E in the form of DL-α-tocopherol acetate (0.0 mg/kg; 300 mg/kg, and 600 mg/kg), with six replicates, and 20 birds per box. In natural conditions of heat stress, the association of organic zinc and vitamin E in the diet of broilers from 22 to 42 days of age did not affect the productive performance, carcass, noble cuts, and abdominal fat yield. In an isolated way, the supplementation of vitamin E improved the productive performance in from 22 to 33 days of age. Moreover, in the period of 22 to 42 days of age, the level of 312.5mg/kg of vitamin E provided better creative viability.
Comparing McMaster and Mini-FLOTAC for endoparasites diagnostic in goats
Authors: Silva Juliane Nayra Dantas , Oliveira Maria de Lara , Paiva Ruana Rafaela Lira Torquato , Aguiar Antônia Aniellen Raianne Moisés , Coelho Wesley Adson Costa , Pereira Josivania Soares
Published: December 2020

The Brazil Northeast region has the higher goat national herd with the endoparasitosisas one of the main factors interfering in these productive chain. Aiming to compare diagnostic techniques to quantify goats endoparasites eggs and oocysts. Eggs and oocysts recovered from feces were identified from 45 goats, Capra aegagrus hircus, by counting eggs per gram of feces (EPG) McMaster (conversion factors 100x and 25x) and Mini-FLOTAC (conversion factors 5x and 10x). The statistical analysis were performed in the SPSS program version 21.0 and the statistical differences and accordance between the techniques, by Friedman (p<0.05) and kappa (p-value), respectively. Eggs from Strongylida, Strongyloidessp., Trichurissp. and Eimeriasp were identified. The coproparasitological methods applied were efficient in quantifying and identifying recovered eggs and oocysts. Although the similarity and accordance among techniques regarding the Eimeriasp. oocysts, the McMaster 25x; Mini-FLOTAC 5x and Mini-FLOTAC 10x were the methods that better recovered such oocysts. The Strongylida eggs were equally recovered by all the techniques. The Strongyloidessp. eggs were better recovered by the McMaster 25x; McMaster 100x and Mini-FLOTAC 5x techniques; and the Trichurissp. by McMaster 100x. Considering that both techniques used in this work were capable on recovering every eggs and oocysts, both can be adopted for coproparasitological diagnostic in goats.
Design and Synthesis of Quinolizidine Derivatives as Influenza Virus and HIV-1 Inhibitors
Authors: Dang Zhao , Zhu Lei , Xie Lan , Lee Kuo-Hsiung , Malik Faisal , Li Zhijun , Huang Li , Chen Chin-Ho
Published: December 2020

Background:

We have previously reported that a quinolizidine natural product,
aloperine, and its analogs can inhibit influenza virus and/or HIV-1 at low μM concentrations.

Objective:

The main goal of this study was to further optimize aloperine for improved
anti-influenza virus activity.

Methods:

Structural modifications have been focused on the N12 position of aloperine
scaffold. Conventional chemical synthesis was used to obtain derivatives with improved
antiviral activities. The anti-HIV and anti-influenza virus activities of the synthesized
compounds were determined using an MT4 cell-based HIV-1 replication assay and an anti-
influenza virus infection of MDCK cell assay, respectively.

Results:

Aloperine derivatives can be classified into three activity groups: those that exhibit
anti-HIV activity only, anti–influenza virus only, or activity against both viruses.
Aloperine optimized for potent anti-influenza activity often lost anti-HIV-1 activity, and
vice versa. Compound 19 inhibited influenza virus PR8 replication with an IC50 of 0.091
μM, which is approximately 160- and 60-fold more potent than aloperine and the previously
reported aloperine derivative compound 3, respectively.

Conclusion:

The data suggest that aloperine is a privileged scaffold that can be modified
to become a selective antiviral compound with markedly improved potency against influenza
virus or HIV-1.
Synthetic Approaches Towards the Synthesis of C-1 Azole Substituted Tetrahydroisoquinolines
Authors: Singh Pushpinder
Published: December 2020

C-1 substituted tetrahydroisoquinolines have emerged as important scaffolds in
pharmaceutical and medical research. Although various methods for α-substitution on tetrahydroisoquinolines
have been discovered, the introduction of the azole group at C-1 position
remains a challenge. Recently, direct C-H activation methods and multicomponent reactions
have been employed towards the synthesis of azole containing tetrahydroisoquinolines. A
summary of such synthetic strategies is presented here as these promising methods can help
in developing more efficient synthetic routes. This minireview covers the available synthetic
methods and their mechanistic pathways for the preparation of C-1 azole substituted tetrahydroisoquinolines.
Bioactive Compounds with Significant Anti-Rheumatoid Arthritis Effect Isolated for the First time from Leaves of Bougainvillea spectabilis
Authors: Ahmed Amal H. , Abd Elkarim Asmaa S.
Published: December 2020

Objective:

The aim of this work is to identify and purify bioactive compounds from
70℅ aqueous methanolic extract (AME) of B. spectabilis leaves collected in Cairo, Egypt and assessed
their rheumatoid arthritis activity.

Methods:

The methanolic extract of B. spectabilis leaves was fractionated and subjected to different
chromatographic techniques to isolate pure new compounds which were identified by one dimensional
and two dimensional nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopic analyses and
mass spectrometric methods. The isolated compounds were evaluated for their anti-inflammatory
activity on adjuvant induced chronic rheumatoid arthritis.

Results & Discussion:

Seven bioactive compounds were purified and identified for the first time
from the methanolic extract of Bougainvillea spectabilis leaves; secologanin dimethyl acetal,
α- and β-amyrin, α- and β-amyrin acetate, Kaempferol and kaempferol-3-O-rhamnoside. The previously
mentioned compounds had a significant effect against rheumatoid arthritis.

Conclusion:

The seven compounds isolated from the methanolic extract of B. spectabilis leaves
showed strong anti-rheumatoid arthritis activity.
The Potential Mechanism of N-acetylcysteine in Treating COVID-19
Authors: Zhou Nan , Yang Xiaofan , Huang Aie , Chen Zhenbing
Published: December 2020

N-Acetylcysteine (NAC) has been proposed to be used to treat Coronavirus Disease 2019
(COVID-19). By reviewing the existing pathological studies of COVID-19, it was found that abundant
mucus secretion, formation of a hyaline membrane (supportive of acute respiratory distress
syndrome), and interstitial fibrous exudation may be important characteristics of COVID-19 and
pathological targets of drug therapy. In addition, multiple extrapulmonary organ injuries in COVID-
19 may be associated with cytokine storm. NAC is an important antioxidant and anti-inflammatory
drug. NAC has been demonstrated to have mucolytic effects in bronchitis, relieve respiratory failure
in acute respiratory distress syndrome, and inhibit fibrous exudation in interstitial lung disease in
clinical studies. These findings suggest that NAC may have a therapeutic effect on the pathological
targets of COVID-19. Furthermore, NAC decreases TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, and IL-17 serum
levels in patients with sepsis, severe burns, acute liver failure, or peritoneal dialysis and may
also reduce cytokine storm in COVID-19. The antiviral effect of NAC on other respiratory viruses
may also benefit COVID-19 patients. Summarizing the potential mechanisms of NAC in treating
COVID-19 suggests that the role of NAC in COVID-19 treatment is worthy of further research.
Potential Epigenetic Targets for Combating Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Pandey Dheeraj , Pal Tiyas , Sharma Abha , Flora SJS
Published: December 2020

Memory remains an obligatory regime of the human brain, and impaired memory causes
serious obstacles in our everyday life. Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is one such neurodegenerative disease
which mostly affects the elderly population, above the age of 60; marked by cognitive impairment
of memory. Besides the known targets of AD against the several etiologies known to date, the
zone of epigenetics has recently evolved as an ingenious field in AD. Epigenetic modifications do not
affect DNA sequence but only long-term gene expression. Considering the complex multifactorial
nature of AD, we herein discuss the various epigenetic targets which might give rise to potential therapeutic
approaches. We reviewed the possible epigenetic targets for AD-like HDAC, Sirtuins, glial
cells, miRNA and epigenetic modifications like DNA methylation. A deeper insight into these target
areas can surely evolve AD diagnosis and therapeutics.
Aerosolized Liposomal Formulation Prevents Enhanced Drug Transfer from Fibrotic Lungs to the Systemic Circulation
Authors: Togami Kohei , Kurasho Kaede , Kanehira Yukimune , Tada Hitoshi , Chono Sumio
Published: December 2020

Background:

Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF) is a chronic and progressive respiratory
disease characterized by the destruction of the alveolar structure. In pulmonary fibrosis, aerosolized
drugs are easily transferred to the systemic circulation via leakage through the injured alveolar
epithelium. Therefore, pulmonary drug delivery systems for sustained distribution in fibrotic lungs
are needed.

Objective:

We evaluated the intrapulmonary pharmacokinetics of aerosolized liposomes as pulmonary
drug delivery systems in mice with bleomycin-induced pulmonary fibrosis.

Methods:

The aerosolized liposomal formulations and solutions of model compounds, including indocyanine
green and 6-carboxyfluorescein (6-CF), were intrapulmonary administered to mice with
bleomycin-induced pulmonary fibrosis. In vivo imaging for indocyanine green and 6-CF measurements
in lung tissues and plasma were performed. Additionally, in vitro permeation experiments using
NCI-H441 cell monolayers as a model of alveolar epithelial cells were performed.

Results:

The fluorescence signals of indocyanine green following the administration of liposomal
formulations were observed longer in the lungs than those in solution-treated mice. Compared with
the solution, the 6-CF concentrations in lung tissues after the administration of liposomal formulations
were determined higher, whereas those in the plasma were lower. 6-CF permeability was significantly
increased by transforming growth factor-β1 in NCI-H441 cell monolayers treated with
the solution but unchanged in the presence of the liposomal formulation.

Conclusion:

The aerosolized liposomal formulation can prevent enhanced drug transfer from fibrotic
lungs into the systemic circulation via the injured alveolar epithelium. This system may be useful
for the sustained distribution of anti-fibrotic agents in fibrotic lungs and the optimization of IPF
therapy.
ACE2 as a Potential Target for Management of Novel Coronavirus (nCoV- 2019)
Authors: Foroozanfar Elham , Forouzanfar Mohamad , Farkhondeh Tahereh , Samarghandian Saeed , Forouzanfar Fatemeh
Published: December 2020

A novel coronavirus termed nCoV-2019 that caused an epidemic of acute respiratory
syndrome in humans was first detected in Wuhan, China, in December 2019. nCoV-2019 resulted
in thousands of cases of lethal disease all around the world. Unfortunately, there is no specific treatment
yet, so a better understanding of the pathobiology of the disease can be helpful. The renin-angiotensin
system and its products have several important physiological actions. On the other hand,
this system is involved in the pathogenesis of various diseases. In this context, this review article
will briefly discuss insights for understanding the role of the angiotensin-converting enzyme 2
(ACE2) receptor as a potentially attractive target for the nCoV-2019-induced acute respiratory syndrome.
Design, Synthesis and Biological Evaluation of Cyanopyridines, Pyridopyrazolopyrimidines and Pyridopyrazolotriazines as Potential Anticancer Agents
Authors: Keshk Reda Mohammed , Izzularab Batoul Mohamed
Published: December 2020

Background:

The continuous need for new anticancer drugs is never-ending task due to cancer resistance
to the existing drugs.

Objective:

This article aimed to design, synthesis, characterization, and anticancer evaluation of cyanopyridines,
pyridopyrazolopyrimidines and pyridopyrazolotriazines.

Methods:

Anticancer activity of the synthesized compounds was determined using MTT assay against three cancer
cell lines, namely liver cancer cell line (HepG-2), pancreatic cancer cell line (PANC-1), non-small lung cancer
cell line (A-549) and normal fibroblast.

Results and Discussion:

A series of 3-cyanopyridines (2a,b, 4, 5, 9), pyridopyrimidine (10), pyridopyrazolopyrimidines
(11a-c, 12a,b, 18), pyrazolopyridine salt (13) and pyridopyrazolotriazines (16a,b) were synthesized
from 3-cyano-4,6-dimethyl-2-pyridone. The synthesized compounds were evaluated in vitro for their anticancer
activity and their chemical structures were determined by elemental analysis and spectroscopic data.

Conclusion:

Some of the synthesized compounds showed remarkable anticancer activities, especially 11a exhibited
superior potency to the reference drug cisplatin against A-549 (IC50 = 9.24 μg mL-1 compared to 11.76 μg
mL-1 for reference drug) and was found to be safe (IC50 = 66 μg mL-1) for normal fibroblast. Furthermore, compound
16a displayed the highest activity among the tested compounds against HepG-2 (IC50 = 6.45 μg mL-1
equipotent to cisplatin) with the highest safety profile for normal fibroblast (IC50=113.97 μg mL-1).
Oncolytic Coxsackievirus and the Mechanisms of its Effects on Cancer: A Narrative Review
Authors: Ahmadi Ali , Ghaleh Hadi E.G. , Dorostkar Ruhollah , Farzanehpour Mahdieh , Bolandian Masoumeh
Published: December 2020

Cancer is a genetic disease triggered by gene mutations, which control cell growth and
their functionality inherited from previous generations. The targeted therapy of some tumors was
not especially successful. A host of new techniques can be used to treat aptamer-mediated targeting,
cancer immunotherapy, cancer stem cell (CSC) therapy, cell-penetrating peptides (CPPs), hormone
therapy, intracellular cancer cell targeting, nanoparticles, and viral therapy. These include
chemical-analog conjugation, gene delivery, ligand-receptor-based targeting, prodrug therapies,
and triggered release strategies. Virotherapy is a biotechnological technique for turning viruses into
therapeutic agents by the reprogramming of viruses to cure diseases. In several tumors, including
melanoma, multiple myeloma, bladder cancer, and breast cancer, the oncolytic capacity of oncolytic
Coxsackievirus has been studied. The present study aims to assess oncolytic Coxsackievirus and
its mechanisms of effect on cancer cells.
Effect of Lipid Emulsion on the Improvement of Renal Damage in Colistin- Induced Nephrotoxicity
Authors: Senkal Naci , Atasoy Ozum , Caparali Emine Bilge , Erdogan Mumin Alper , Erbas Oytun
Published: December 2020

Background:

Colistin utilization has gradually increased worldwide with the rising of
multidrug-resistant (MDR) gram-negative bacilli despite its nephrotoxicity. Lipid emulsion (LE) is
widely used for the toxic overdose treatment of various drugs.

Objective:

The aim of the present study is to evaluate the effect of lipid emulsion on the improvement
of renal damage in colistin-induced nephrotoxicity with an experimental Sprague Dawley rat
model.

Methods:

Twenty-four male Sprague Dawley rats were initially assigned to 2 random groups. Sixteen
rats were given a single dose of 20 mg/kg colistin, and eight rats received no medication (control
group). Sixteen rats that were administered colistin were sub-divided into 2 groups. Group
1/LE rats (n = 8) were given 20 ml/kg solution of lipid emulsion, and group 2/S rats (n = 8) were
given 20 ml/kg/day (i.p.) of 0.9% NaCl saline; both were administered for 10 days. Then tubular injury
was evaluated histopathologically. Serum levels of blood urea nitrogen (BUN), Kidney Injury
Molecule-1 (KIM-1), and creatinine were measured. Besides, malondialdehyde (MDA) levels were
determined in tissue samples for the assessment of lipid peroxidation.

Results:

The mean percent of tubular epithelial cell injury and tubular dilatation was found significantly
higher in group 2/S than in control and group 1/LE (p < 0.0001 and < 0.001; respectively).
KIM-1 and MDA levels were also statistically higher in group 2/S than in control and group 1/LE.
(p < 0.0001 and < 0.0001; respectively). Additionally, serum BUN and creatinine levels of group
2/S were significantly greater than control and group 1/LE (p < 0.0001 and < 0.0001; respectively).

Conclusion:

In this present study, we determined that colistin-induced proximal tubular damage
was decreased histopathologically and serologically by the effect of lipid emulsion. Thus, our findings
may guide future studies on the clinical use of colistin, particularly in MDR positive intensive
care infections.
A Fluoro Derivative of Embelin, as Potent B-RAF Inhibitor in Melanoma
Authors: Babu Arunkumar , Laila Shiny P. , Fernandez Annette
Published: December 2020

Background:

Melanoma is one of the most common forms of skin cancer, and B-RAF is a mutated
protein found in most melanomas. The important function of B-RAF is normal cell growth and survival. Most of
the known B-RAF mutations are V600E mutations. Vemurafenib is the fluorine-based drug currently used for
V600E mutations. However, this drug has side effects, therefore, more potent drugs with fewer side effects are
required.

Objective:

This study aims to develop a more effective lead compound as a B-RAF inhibitor from
hydroxyquinone by structural modification of embelin, a naturally occurring hydroxybenzoquinone. It has the
potency of detoxifying blood and is hence useful in a wide range of skin diseases. Thus, a fluorine substituted
semisynthetic derivative of embelin, 5-(3-chloro-4-trifluoromethoxy phenyl amino)-2-hydroxy-3-undecyl- [1, 4]
benzoquinone to fight against skin cancer was prepared.

Methods:

Fluoro derivative of embelin was synthesized by the direct condensation of embelin with 3-chloro-4-
trifluoromethoxy aniline. The structure of the product was characterized using various spectral data obtained
from IR, 1H NMR, 19F NMR, 13C NMR, and mass spectrum. Various in vitro studies like antiproliferative study
in A375 Cell Lines (B-RAF Elisa), western blotting analysis, gene expression study by reverse transcriptase
PCR, caspase assay, flow cytometry analysis, clonogenic assay, and transwell migration assay were carried out to
find its biological activity.

Results:

A semisynthetic derivative of Embelin 5-(3-Chloro-4-trifluoromethoxy phenyl amino)-2-hydroxy-3-
undecyl- [1, 4] benzoquinone (EOCF) was prepared, and the structure of the derivative was confirmed by
spectral analysis. The MTT assay proves that the fluoro derivative of embelin exhibited better anti-cancer activity
in melanoma cell lines than the parent compound, embelin. Western blot analysis showed that B-RAF expression
level was reduced by the addition of derivative than the parent compound embelin. The Caspase ELISA analysis
indicated that the derivative was found to be a good apoptotic marker. From the flow cytometry analysis, it was
observed that cell arrest occurs at the G0/G1 phase. Its antimetastatic activity was determined using clonogenic
assay. It indicated that the derivative EOCF inhibits the metastatic effects in melanoma cell lines. The migratory
potential of melanoma cells was significantly reduced in the presence of EOCF when the transwell migration
assay was conducted.

Conclusion:

This work established that the potency of the synthesized compound was more than the parent
compound, embelin, when it was structurally modified with 3-chloro-4-trifluoromethoxy aniline. The derivative
can be used as a lead molecule for further drug discovery.
An Overview on COVID-19 and its Effect on Cardiovascular Diseases
Authors: Hamadi Abdullah , Mahzari Ali , Hakami Abdulrahim , Hindawi Salwa , Dobie Gasim , Sayyed M. I , Hamdi Fawaz , Nahari Mohammed , Jackson Denise E.
Published: December 2020

COVID-19 (Virus named as severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2)) is a pandemic
disease characterized with respiratory infection caused by coronavirus. It has worldwide after an outbreak began in Wuhan,
China, in December 2019. SARS-CoV-2 has infected more than 15 million people globally. The disease severity and
mortality increased in patients with heart-related comorbidities. Cardiovascular disease patients are more susceptible and
infected with SARS-CoV-2. Early screening and managements these patients prevent or ameliorate adverse outcomes.
Several treatments have been used to combat these effects as previously seen in MERS and SARS. This review will cover
the association of cardiovascular diseases with COVID 19. It showed that cardiovascular diseases are common in patients
with COVID- 19. Increased attention to highlight the gaps should be paid to the care of this unique group of patients.
Curcumin Loaded and Co-loaded Nanosystems: A Review from a Biological Activity Enhancement Perspective
Authors: Araya-Sibaja Andrea M. , Wilhelm Krissia , González-Aguilar Gustavo A. , Vega-Baudrit José R. , Salazar-López Norma J. , Domínguez-Avila Jesús A. , Navarro-Hoyos Mirtha
Published: December 2020

Background:

Curcumin is a natural phenolic compound exhibiting multiple bioactivities
that have been evaluated in vitro, in vivo as well as through clinical studies in humans. Some
of them include antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and central nervous system protective
effects. Further, curcumin is generally recognized as a safe substance because of its low toxicity.
However, its molecular structure is susceptible to changes in pH, oxidation, photodegradation,
low aqueous solubility, and biotransformation compromising its bioavailability; these drawbacks
are successfully addressed through nanotechnology.

Objective:

The present review systematizes findings on the enhancement of curcumin’s beneficial
effects when it is loaded and co-loaded into different types of nanosystems covering liposomes, polymeric
and solid-lipid nanoparticles, nanostructured lipid carrier, lipid-polymeric hybrids, self-
-assembled and protein-based core-shell systems in relation to its antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory
and central nervous system protective bioactivities.

Conclusion:

Curcumin is a versatile molecule capable of exerting antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti-
inflammatory, and central nervous system protective effects in an enhanced manner using the
possibilities offered by the nanotechnology-based approach. Its enhanced bioactivities are associated
with increments in solubility, stability, bioavailability, as well as in improved intracellular uptake
and cell internalization. These advantages, in addition to curcumin’s low toxicity, indicate the
potential of curcumin to be loaded and co-loaded into nanosystems capable of providing a controlled
release and targeted administration.
Design and Dynamic Simulation Research of a Bionic Three-Link Tube Shock Absorber
Authors: Song Yong , Li Yue , Li Zhanlong , Lian Jinyi , Shi Qinglu , Meng Jie
Published: December 2020

Background::

Shock absorbers are the main damping component of vehicle suspension system, whose excellent passive characteristics can greatly improve and guarantee the ride comfort and handling stability of vehicles. Therefore, it is of great significance to research and develop a shock absorber with excellent passive characteristics.

Objective::

The purpose of this paper is to propose and design a bionic three-link tube shock absorber with good buffering and vibration reduction performance and bionic adaptive characteristics. In addition, the passive characteristics of the purposed shock absorber are studied.

Methods::

The bionics idea is applied to the development of vehicle shock absorbers. A three-link mechanism with dampers and springs is abstracted and designed according to the structure and the function of kangaroo legs. A bionic three-link tube shock absorber is constructed based on the traditional tube shock absorber structures and the three-link mechanism. Three-dimensional modeling and three-dimensional dynamic simulation of the shock absorber are carried out by CATIA and ADAMS.

Results::

The body acceleration are greatly reduced relative to excitations; the dynamic displacement decreases sharply under greater excitation, but there is slight increase under smaller excitation; the motion function and joint change characteristics of the proposed shock absorber are similar to those of kangaroo legs to a certain degree.

Conclusion::

The results show that the structure design of the bionic three-link tube shock absorber is reasonable and workable, the shock absorber presents good buffering and damping performance and some bionic adaptive characteristics, however, there is still room for further optimization of the structure design.
Aloe vera Compositions Used for Medicinal Applications: A Patent Review (2013-till 2020)
Authors: Varpe Bhushan D. , kulkarni Amol A. , Mali Anil S.
Published: December 2020

Background::

Aloe vera is a traditionally used plant for medicinal purposes, mostly as a cosmetic. The Aloe vera gel/extract/juice is being used in hair care, moisturizing, cleansing, and thickening agent in formulations. The Aloe vera gel is rarely used on burns, wounds, infections, and gastric diseases.

Objectives::

To study the patents filed recently to understand the trend in the application of Aloe vera for therapeutic purposes.

Methods::

This patent review focuses on granted patents during the year 2013-till 2020. The patents were analyzed and their therapeutic use was studied to assess the recent trends in Aloe vera formulations.

Results::

Most of the patents of this article on skincare products and out of those maximum patents are on moisturizing compositions. Most of the patents are found in US jurisdiction and few in Europe and China. As there are certain restrictions on patenting inventions related to composition and natural products in various jurisdictions, patents are found in only a few jurisdictions.

Conclusion::

The trend of use of Aloe vera is still towards cosmetic products also the Aloe vera is used in oral care composition, deodorant compositions, anti-inflammatory composition, vitamin compositions, antibiotic compositions, etc.
Efficacy of Topical Formulations in Healing of Caesarean Scars Using Non-Invasive Devices: A Controlled Trial
Authors: Abdullah Alia , Al Kredly Rawya , Baguneid Mohamed
Published: December 2020

Background:

Despite the availability of many topical formulations for scar treatment, an objective evaluation of
their effect is lacking.

Objective:

To assess the physiological, structural, and mechanical parameters of scar healing by a scar ointment (MEBOScar).

Methods:

45 patients from the Department of Obstetrics at Al Ain Hospital, UAE, with recently acquired Pfannenstiel scars
were recruited into this prospective, open-label, controlled study. Scar ointment was applied to a lateral third of the scar;
positive control (silicone gel based topical) to the other lateral third; the middle third was left untreated (negative control).
The scars were evaluated at 4 time points up to 12 weeks using non-invasive devices and a scar questionnaire.

Results:

In comparison with silicone gel, there was a significant reduction in trans epithelial water loss at weeks 2,4,8, and
12 (p<0.001) and scar area at weeks 4, 8 and 12 (p<0.001) with scar ointment. The skin elasticity at week 4 was significantly
increased by scar ointment (p=0.007). By week 12, gross colour mismatch of the scar was described by 9% patients with
scar ointment (24% with silicone gel, 42% with no treatment; p<0.001). There was significant improvement in scar texture
with scar ointment by week 12 (p<0.001).

Conclusions:

Scar ointment has beneficial effects on objective and subjective patient-reported parameters of Pfannenstiel
scars.
Gamification in education: State of the art
Authors: Santos López Iria María , Torrente-Patiño Álvaro
Published: December 2020

This article is a journey through the advances and advantages of the gamification in education, based on the research and scientific studies identified as the most relevant. It focuses on collecting the most significant articles, texts, books and conferences, and making this state of the art as up-to-date as possible.
A gamificação do processo de aprendizagem: Línguas e humanidades
Authors: Moura Diana , Nogueira Ana Sofia , Vigar Anthony Alexandre , Fernandes Joana Gândara
Published: December 2020

A aprendizagem gamificada tem tido um impacto nas ciências humanas, tecnologia ou matemática. Os usuários sentem-se mais envolvidos quando o processo de aprendizagem é gamificado, o que tende a estimulá-los a continuar a aprender e superar as barreiras de aprendizagem. Nas ciências humanas, novas aplicações como o Duolingo, Babbel ou Tandem têm vindo a explorar o processo de aprendizagem de diversos idiomas. Essa tendência foi seguida por aplicativos como o Math Learner, focado na aprendizagem de matemática, Tynker e Kano, focados no ensino de STEM (Ciência, Tecnologia, Ciência e Matemática) para crianças, ou mesmo no Datacamp que, como web app, foi a plataforma líder na aprendizagem de data science para estudantes e profissionais. A realidade virtual também está a abrir um mundo totalmente novo para a experiência de aprendizagem gamificada. Refletiremos sobre a gamificação no processo de aprendizagem, sobretudo de línguas, mas também de STEM e história. Iremos, ainda, abordar as vantagens e desvantagens do ensino híbrido e da sala de aula invertida e o modo como podem ajudar num ambiente de aprendizagem orientado pela tecnologia.