bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessment of Weed Flora Composition in Parthenium (Parthenium hysterophorus L.) Infested Area of East Shewa Zone, Ethiopia
Authors: Belachew Kifle , Tessema Taye
Published: April 2020

Field survey on parthenium was conducted at East shewa Zone of Oromiya Regional State, Ethiopia during 2008 cropping season.  The objectives of the study was to assess the weed flora composition and plant species that are growing in copetation with parthenium to use those plants as potential biological management options under field condition. Assessment of weed flora composition was carried out in five Kebeles (Farmers Association) of Boset District East Shewa Zone of Oromiya Regional State, Ethiopia. Data on the species composition were recorded and samples of weed flora compositions were collected. The result showed a total of eighty five different herbaceous plant species that were collected and recorded in 63 genera and 24 families. Poaceae (21), Asteraceae (11), Fabaceae (7) and Convolvulaceae (7) were by far the richest taxa and accounted together (55 %) of the entire flora of the study area. The major plant species having higher dominance value were Parthenium hysterophorus (25.6), Cassia tora (6.07), Argemone mexicana (5.83), Xanthium strumarium (4.53), Digitaria abyssinica (3.02) and Cyperus rotundus (2.86). Similarity index values of the species composition among different kebeles ranged from 65% to 78% which indicating that weed species compositions in these locations were similar. The diversity and evenness of species declined with increasing spread of parthenium which suggests negative influence that parthenium had on the status of species diversity in the studied area. In conclusion the selected plant species that were found competitive with parthenium based on their abundance and dominance values were Argemone mexicana, Cassia tora, and Xanthium strumarium which were suggested for detailed competition experiment in order to determine their competitiveness with P. hysterophorus and will be used for biological management of it.
EXPLORING AND DEVELOPING ITEMS MEASURING SITUATIONAL LEADERSHIP II (SLII)
Authors: Al-Khamaiseh Zaydoon , Binti Abdul Halim Bahyah , Afthanorhan Asyraf , Hassan Alqahtani Ayed
Published: April 2020

Purpose of the study: This research intended to develop a valid and reliable survey instrument to measure Situational Leadership Model II (SLM II) through Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA), including the four quadrants, evidently describe the Situational Leadership aspects style which is; directing, coaching, supporting, and delegating. Methodology: A survey with an interval scale between 1 and 10. Using the extraction method of Principal Component with Varimax Rotation, the researcher performed the EFA procedure on construct elements using Amos 24.0. Bartletts’ Test of Sphericity and the sampling adequacy by (KMO) was performed also. Cronbach’s Alpha was applied to test the reliability of the retained items. Main Findings: The Bartletts’ Test of Sphericity is highly significant (sig. 000). Furthermore, the sampling adequacy by (KMO=0.889) is excellent. The four components have Cronbach’s alpha values with more than 0.7. Furthermore, Cronbach’s Alpha value for all 24 items also exceeded the threshold value of 0.7. The development scale and validation confirmed that the instrument is consistent and stable across samples. Applications of this study: This study was applied to the leading telecommunications companies in Jordan that are exclusively providing mobile phones and internet service. It Includes Orange, Zain, and Umniah. The study targeted all permanent middle managers of (JTS) who hold supervisory positions, heads of departments, directors of divisions, or directors who are supervising three or more subordinates. Novelty/Originality of this study: It adds a remarkable contribution to the measurement of the SLM II, mainly in the JTS context. The EFA outcomes formed a configuration that extracts four components of SLM II, which can be measured by 24 items established in this research, which reveals that the elements are applicable in this study.
Halal as a Distinct Competitive Edge for Islamic Higher Education in the Millennial Generation
Authors: Salman Abdul Matin bin , Rohman Nur , Halim Abd. , Susilayati Muslimah
Published: April 2020

Increasing demand for halal products worldwide is one of the most prominent indicators of rising awareness of the Islamic halal concept. Thanks to increasing awareness of the benefits of halal, the concept has become a global trend in the Millennium era. Muslims are required to master the foundations of the concept of halal from the al-Qur’an and hadith, as well as its implementation in Maqasid Shariah and sciences. Mastery of halal concepts by the millennial generation can improve the competitiveness of the nation. Therefore, Islamic higher education can be seen as a significant platform for increasing halal knowledge and awareness in the millennium generation. Halal trends knowledge can provide a competitive edge in preparing the millennial generation for the increasing demands of the halal market. Purpose - This study aims to determine the implementation of halal as a distinct competitive advantage in Islamic higher education in preparing the millennial generation at The State Islamic Institute of Surakarta, Indonesia. Design/methodology/approach - The research used quantitative and qualitative methods (mixed method). Quantitative data was collected by giving out questionnaires to final semester students. Qualitative data was obtained from interviews with campus program planners. Data was analyzed with descriptive statistics before being interpreted. Findings - The results showed that 72.9% of students had studied the halal concept, 83.3% of students were able to identify halal products from  MUI labels, and 45.8% understood  the concepts of the Maqasid Shariah. Institutional development in halal understanding and awareness is ongoing through establishment of the halal study center and halal research center in collaboration with various parties.
Reflections on a Father-son Partnership
Authors: Billington David P.
Published: April 2020

The author relates a partnership over several decades with his father, David P. Billington, in support of his father's teaching and research on structural art and engineering history.
David Billington: An Innovator and an Inspiration
Authors: Mac Namara Sinéad C.
Published: April 2020

David Billington was a scholar of structural art and an inspirational educator who introduced generations of engineering students to the history and evolution of their discipline. This paper reflects on the author's time as a graduate student studying under David Billington and the
profound and lasting impact it has had on her teaching and scholarship.
Lessons from David Billington
Authors: Littman Michael
Published: April 2020

Princeton Professor David Billington died on March 25, 2018 at the age of 90. David was a structural engineer, scholar, and a master teacher. He taught two courses at Princeton University. By Princeton standards these were very large courses, impacting as many as 20% of all students
graduating from Princeton from the mid-1990's until he retired in 2010. One course was "Structures in the Urban Environment" and it focused on structural artists – engineers who designed efficient, economical, and elegant structures. The other course was "Engineering in the Modern World"
and it focused on the history of engineering from the time of the American Revolution to the present day. Both courses are still being taught by his colleagues, Prof. Maria Garlock and Prof. Michael Littman. This article is about David's approach to educating the general public and engineers
as described by Michael Littman, who co-taught the "Engineering in the Modern World" course with him for over 20 years.
Biorreator à membrana-nova: tecnologia para tratamento de efluentes
Authors: Batista Joicy Alves , Costa Luana Rodrigues , Oliveira Mylena Luiza de
Published: April 2020

A maioria das estações de tratamento de esgoto tem seguimentos de processos clássicos, normalmente coagulações-floculações contínuas de tratamentos biológicos. Nota-se que nas grandes metrópoles os problemas de tratamento de esgoto vêm se estendendo, e parte desses efluentes, tanto domésticos quanto industriais, normalmente são lançados ao meio ambiente, acarretando problemas e riscos à saúde da população; portanto, são necessários novos métodos de tratamento para evitar danos e contaminações ao meio ambiente. Além disso, o crescimento dos meios urbanos tem deixado poucas alternativas de áreas disponíveis para a implantação de estações de tratamento de esgoto (ETE), uma vez que estas demandam espaço significativo para a sua instalação. Como alternativas às ETE convencionais surgiu uma nova tecnologia, a partir de um conceito simples de filtração de biomassa: os biorreatores à membrana (MBR). Este artigo visa demonstrar como são realizados os procedimentos de tratamento de efluentes por meio da tecnologia MBR, com a qual temos a possibilidade de trabalhar com elevadas taxas de aplicação, com a viabilidade de um efluente melhorado e com viáveis opções de reuso da água.
Development of a Project-Based Learning Assessment System to Improve Students’ Competence
Authors: Rahayu Wening Patmi , Hidayatin Hidayatin , Churiyah Madziatul
Published: April 2020

The study aims to develop a project-based learning assessment system to improve students’ competence. Data were obtained using the Research and Development (R&D) methods adopted from Borg & Gall which comprised of 8 stages. The research products were tested by using the construct and content validations conducted by 2 lecturers and 1 teacher, respectively. Furthermore, students’ competence was analyzed by measuring their cognitive, affective and psychomotor domains. The product developed obtained highly valid criteria in the affective, cognitive, and psychomotor domains with scores of 84.6%, 84.2% and 84%, respectively. In addition, the results of content validation obtained highly valid criteria in the affective, cognitive, and psychomotor domains with scores of 90%, 93.3%, and 92%. Furthermore, the results of field testing obtained a score of 82% by 1 archival teacher and 82.77% by 30 students which showed that the assessment instrument received a good response and feasible for use in learning. The improvement in competence was measured by projects made in the instrument, and it led to a significant improvement in competence before using the assessment as learning instrument.
Do Experiences and Entrepreneur Motivation Influence Success and Failure Students’ Business?
Authors: Kuswanto Kuswanto , Maemunah May , Refnida Refnida
Published: April 2020

This study aims to determine the effect of entrepreneurial experience and motivation on the success of students of the Jambi University Entrepreneurship Student Program (ESP). This research uses the ex post facto method. The subjects in this study were students who received ESP Program funding in 2018, totaling 50 business groups. Data were analyzed descriptively and quantitatively using multiple regression. Statistical test results show the accuracy of the model as a predictor of 44 percent. The experience of entrepreneurship has a positive and significant effect on the success of student ventures. Entrepreneurial motivation does not affect the success of student ventures. Simultaneously entrepreneur experience and entrepreneurial motivation have a positive and significant effect on the success of student ventures. The results of this study recommend that ESP program managers be more selective in determining students who receive start-up business funds to be more productive and efficient. Future research should examine other factors that influence the success of student efforts to produce more comprehensive studies as a basis for policy.
Direct Anterior Approach Total Hip Arthroplasty Revisited
Authors: Flevas Dimitrios A. , Tsantes Andreas G. , Mavrogenis Andreas F.
Published: April 2020

» In total hip arthroplasty, the advantages of the direct anterior approach (DAA) compared with the direct lateral and posterior approaches include a true intermuscular approach that spares the abductor musculature, protects the soft tissues surrounding the hip, and thus maintains hip joint stability.

» The disadvantages of the DAA compared with the direct lateral and posterior approaches include a steep learning curve; intraoperative radiation exposure; injury to the nerves, vessels, and muscles; and intraoperative and early postoperative complications including blood loss, wound-healing problems, increased time under anesthesia, proximal femoral fractures and dislocations, complex femoral exposure and bone preparation, and sagittal malalignment of the stem leading to loosening and an increased revision rate.

» Stem implantation in flexed sagittal position and early femoral-stem failures are more common with the DAA compared with the direct lateral and posterior approaches.
Advances in Techniques and Technology in Minimally Invasive Lumbar Interbody Spinal Fusion
Authors: Jain Deeptee , Ray Wilson Z. , Vaccaro Alexander R.
Published: April 2020

» Minimally invasive lumbar interbody fusion has had a surge in popularity in the last decade.

» Minimally invasive surgery (MIS) techniques reduce muscle dissection and soft-tissue disruption, offering faster recovery, reduced blood loss, and shorter hospital stays compared with open techniques. There is, however, a substantial learning curve associated with MIS techniques.

» MIS approaches to the lumbar spine involve anterior, posterior, and combined options. This article reviews patient selection, techniques, outcomes, and complications of the common MIS approaches, including the MIS posterior approach (a transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion) and 3 MIS anterior approaches (a mini-open anterior lumbar interbody fusion, a lateral lumbar interbody fusion, and an oblique lumbar interbody fusion).
Fractures of the Cuboid Bone
Authors: Engelmann Esmee W.M. , Rammelt Stefan , Schepers Tim
Published: April 2020

» Cuboid fractures rarely occur in isolation, and a high index of suspicion for the presence of Chopart, Lisfranc, or complex midfoot injuries should be raised.

» The cuboid is the cornerstone of the lateral column and acts as a bridge between the lateral column and the transverse plantar arch. Its most important role is maintenance of lateral column length and associated motion in the midtarsal and tarsometatarsal joints.

» To date, a classification system that is validated for clinical practice (i.e., guidance for management and prediction of outcome and prognosis) is lacking.

» The principles of operative treatment are restoration of articular congruity, lateral column length, and stability of the Chopart and Lisfranc joints.

» Nonoperative management is reserved for nondisplaced articular fractures (<1 mm) or avulsion fractures that are caused by low-energy trauma.
Team Approach: Complex Regional Pain Syndrome in Children and Adolescents
Authors: Tileston Kali R. , Griffin Anya , Wagner Jenny F.M. , O’Day Meaghan N. , Krane Elliot J.
Published: April 2020

» Children and adolescents with chronic pain are best managed by an interdisciplinary team.

» In cases of complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS), the interdisciplinary team consists of a pain management specialist, such as an anesthesiologist or physiatrist, a physical therapist, an occupational therapist, a pain psychologist, and an orthopaedist. It may also include other professions, such as a gastroenterologist, psychiatrist, nurse practitioner, nutritionist, endocrinologist, acupuncturist, or social worker.

» Key factors include rapid recognition of CRPS and the initiation of appropriate treatment, both for the pain syndrome as well as for the orthopaedic injury.

» Intensive therapies have been shown to be effective in treating CRPS in children. Children often are more responsive to noninvasive treatments than adults.
Diagnosis and Management of Common Hand Infections
Authors: Bilolikar Vivek K. , Seigerman Daniel A. , Ilyas Asif M.
Published: April 2020

» While many hand infections are superficial, diligent evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment of these infections are central for preventing disability and morbidity.

» Maintaining a wide differential diagnosis is important as some hand infections may mimic others.

» In geographic areas with more than a 10% to 15% prevalence of community-acquired methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) hand infections, empiric antibiotics should adequately cover MRSA.

» Once culture results are available, antibiotic regimens should be narrowed to reduce the development of resistant pathogens.
Effects of Discharge Current and Target Thickness in Dc-Magnetron Sputtering on Grain Size of Copper Deposited Samples
Authors: Et al. Yahya
Published: April 2020

A study of the effects of the discharge (sputtering) currents (60-75 mA) and the thickness of copper target (0.037, 0.055 and 0.085 mm) on the prepared samples was performed. These samples were deposited with pure copper on a glass substrate using dc magnetron sputtering with a magnetic flux density of 150 gauss at the center. The effects of these two parameters were studied on the height, diameter, and size of the deposition copper grains as well as the roughness of surface samples using atomic force microscopy (AFM).The results of this study showed that it is possible to control the specifications of copper grains by changing the discharge currents and the thickness of the target material. The increase in discharge current values ​​led to a decrease in height copper grain's values ​​of 20% at a current of 75 mA and target thickness of 0.085 mm. Furthermore, the increasing in the current caused a decrease in the diameter and size values of deposition copper grains. Finally, the surface roughness of the samples was reduced by a 15%  by changing the current and target material thickness at 75 mA and 0.085mm respectively.
La comunicación: un imperativo relacional en el sistema familiar
Authors: Agudelo Campuzano Leidy Laura , Cifuentes Rebolledo María José , Hernández Cardona Danilo
Published: April 2020

Este artículo de revisión documental parte del interés de los investigadores por comprender cuál es la influencia que tiene la comunicación en el sistema familiar, teniendo presente algunos de sus elementos fundamentales, el contexto sociohistórico y el abordaje de la familia a nivel terapéutico. Para efectos de esta investigación, se utilizó el enfoque cualitativo con una metodología hermenéutica, sustentada en la modalidad estado del arte y estrategia documental, posibilitando el análisis de diferentes textos que permitieron la comprensión de la temática a abordar. Se halla que la comunicación se convierte en un agente fundamental para la estructura familiar; a partir de ella, se crean y fortalecen lazos significativos al interior de la familia, reforzando las relaciones interpersonales que facilitan el intercambio de emociones, sentimientos, ideas, pensamientos y creencias, influyendo en las habilidades personales, familiares y sociales. Se constituye así como un punto de convergencia en las realidades familiares, el abordaje terapéutico, donde se ponen de manifiesto las dinámicas internas de las mismas, develando el entramado comunicacional y exponiendo las subjetividades de cada subsistema, en relación con sus vivencias vinculares e interaccionales; esto comprendiendo que la familia presenta variaciones según el contexto histórico y cultural en el cual se encuentre, tales como la estructura familiar, hábitos y estilos de vida, así como las formas de relacionarse. Igualmente se encuentra que las tecnologías de la comunicación e información (TIC) cumplen un papel significativo en la interacción del sistema, pues estas se perciben como una dicotomía a nivel relacional en las familias contemporáneas. Finalmente, se concluye que cada familia es única desde su forma de constitución hasta su momento actual; además, cada integrante que forma parte del sistema es importante en la totalidad de este, por tanto, se establece como un reto para el profesional psicosocial ofrecer un abordaje holístico a la familia, teniendo presente su particularidad y su forma de interacción, tanto a nivel interno como externo.
Exploring siRNA Umpired Nanogels: A Tale of Barrier Combating Carrier
Authors: Kashaw Sushil K. , Sahu Prashant , Rajoriya Vaibhav , Jana Pradeep , Kashaw Varsha , Sau Samaresh , Iyer Arun K.
Published: April 2020

Potential short interfering RNAs (siRNA) modulating gene expression have emerged as a novel therapeutic
arsenal against a wide range of maladies and disorders containing cancer, viral infections, bacterial ailments
and metabolic snags at the molecular level. Nanogel, in the current medicinal era, displayed a comprehensive
range of significant drug delivery prospects. Biodegradation, swelling and de-swelling tendency, pHsensitive
drug release and thermo-sensitivity are some of the renowned associated benefits of nanogel drug delivery
system. Global researches have also showed that nanogel system significantly targets and delivers the biomolecules
including DNAs, siRNA, protein, peptides and other biologically active molecules. Biomolecules
delivery via nanogel system explored a wide range of pharmaceutical, biomedical engineering and agro-medicinal
application. The siRNAs and DNAs delivery plays a vivacious role by addressing the hitches allied with chronic
and contemporary therapeutic like generic possession and low constancy. They also incite release kinetics approach
from slow-release while mingling to rapid release at the targets will be beneficial as interference RNAs
delivery carriers. Therefore, in this research, we focused on the latest improvements in the delivery of siRNA
loaded nanogels by enhancing the absorption, stability, sensitivity and combating the hindrances in cellular trafficking
and release process.
An Overview of Piperazine Scaffold as Promising Nucleus for Different Therapeutic Targets
Authors: Sharma Anjali , Wakode Sharad , Fayaz Faizana , Khasimbi Shaik , Pottoo Faheem H. , Kaur Avneet
Published: April 2020

Piperazine scaffolds are a group of heterocyclic atoms having pharmacological values and showing
significant results in pharmaceutical chemistry. Piperazine has a flexible core structure for the design and synthesis
of new bioactive compounds. These flexible heterogenous compounds exhibit various biological roles, primarily
anticancer, antioxidant, cognition enhancers, antimicrobial, antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal, antiinflammatory,
anti-HIV-1 inhibitors, antidiabetic, antimalarial, antidepressant, antianxiety and anticonvulsant
activities, etc. In the past few years, researchers focused on the therapeutic profile of piperazine synthons for
different biological targets. The present review highlights the development in designing pharmacological activities
of nitrogen-containing piperazine moiety as a therapeutic agent. The extensive popularity of piperazine as a
drug of abuse and their vast heterogeneity research efforts over the last years motivated the new investigators to
further explore this area.
Plant Extracts as a Natural Source of Bioactive Compounds and Potential Remedy for the Treatment of Certain Skin Diseases
Authors: Sitarek Przemysław , Kowalczyk Tomasz , Wieczfinska Joanna , Merecz-Sadowska Anna , Górski Karol , Śliwiński Tomasz , Skała Ewa
Published: April 2020

Skin ailments present a major health burden in both developed and undeveloped countries. Maintaining healthy skin is important for a healthy body. Medicinal plants have long provided reliable therapy in the treatment of skin diseases in humans through a diverse range of bioactive molecules. Skin diseases may have a various basis, or may be genetically determined; together, they constitute approximately 34% of all occupational diseases encountered in people of all ages. Of these, melanoma is one of the most dangerous forms, with very poor prognosis for patients if it is diagnosed too late. This review of the literature over the past five years examines the role and utilities of plant extracts in treating various skin diseases such as atopic dermatitis, acne or melanoma with various potential mechanisms of action.
Hepatoprotective Effects of Resveratrol in Non-Alcoholic Fatty Live Disease
Authors: Tejada Silvia , Capó Xavier , Mascaró Catalina Mª , Monserrat-Mesquida Margalida , Quetglas-Llabrés Mª Magdalena , Pons Antoni , Tur Josep A. , Sureda Antoni
Published: April 2020

Background:

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is one of the most common causes of chronic
liver disease worldwide, directly related to the progressive increase in body weight and obesity. The accumulation
of lipids in patients with NAFLD contributes to the development of insulin resistance, inflammatory response and
oxidative stress in hepatocytes and alteration of the circulating lipid and glycaemic profile. However, to date,
there are no effective pharmacological treatments for patients with NAFLD. Lifestyle changes and dietary modifications
aimed at weight loss are the best current alternatives; therefore, new approaches should be considered.
Resveratrol, a natural polyphenol of the stilbene group, is a potential candidate for the management of NAFLD
for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant properties, and calorie restriction-like effects.

Methods:

In this review, the available information on the potential therapeutic effects of resveratrol on NAFLD,
found mainly in animal models and in some clinical trials, is summarizes.

Results:

In vitro and animal model studies have shown beneficial effects of resveratrol treatment on NAFLD.
Resveratrol reduces the hepatic accumulation of lipids and improves lipid and glycaemic metabolism. Some of
the mechanisms of action are the signalling pathways of AMP-activated protein kinase, sirtuin 1 and nuclear
factor κB. However, the results obtained in clinical trials are inconclusive.

Conclusion:

Although preclinical trials have shown promising results of resveratrol against NALFD, the lack of
clear results in clinical trials makes it necessary to conduct more studies with a larger number of patients and for a
longer time.
The Long-Term Effect of Medically Enhancing Melanin Intrinsic Bioenergetics Capacity in Prematurity
Authors: Herrera Arturo S. , Solís Arias Paola E. , del C.A. Esparza María , Bernal Luis F.T. , Bondarev Andrey D. , Fisenko Vladimir P. , Chubarev Vladimir N. , Minyaeva Nina N. , Mikhaleva Liudmila M. , Tarasov Vadim V. , Somasundaram Siva G. , Kirkland Cecil E. , Aliev Gjumrakch
Published: April 2020

Background:

The ability of the human body to produce metabolic energy from light modifies
fundamental concepts of biochemistry.

Objective:

This review discusses the relationships between the long-accepted concept is that glucose
has a unique dual role as an energy source and as the main source of carbon chains that are precursors
of all organic matter. The capability of melanin to produce energy challenges this premise.

Methods:

The prevalent biochemical concept, therefore, needs to be adjusted to incorporate a newly
discovered state of Nature based on melanin’s ability to dissociate water to produce energy and to reform
water from molecular hydrogen and oxygen.

Results and Discussion:

Our findings regarding the potential implication of QIAPI-1 as a melanin
precursor that has bioenergetics capabilities.

Conclusion:

Specifically, we reported its promising application as a means for treating retinopathy of
prematurity (ROP). The instant report focuses on the long-term treatment medical effects of melanin in
treating ROP.
Polymers Tailored for Controlled (Bio)degradation Through End-Group and In-Chain Functionalization
Authors: Rydz Joanna , Musiol Marta , Kowalczuk Marek
Published: April 2020

Background: Currently, polymers can be created with specific properties that are tailored to a wide
range of applications from medical to everyday products as packaging. There are different techniques to prepare
novel polymer materials with various architectures and specific groups via a variety of reaction mechanisms
of different complexity. End-group modification of polymers is a powerful tool for tailoring polymer
properties.

Objective: The review provides a brief description of the functional moieties and an outline of synthetic strategies
used for tailoring the (bio)degradable polymer properties by end-group and in-chain functionalization.

Conclusion: The contemporary synthetic strategies used in tailoring the (bio)degradable polymer properties by
the end-group and in-chain functionalization demonstrate the importance of the relation between their subtle
molecular structure, properties and function. When the development of (bio)degradable polymers is in its infancy
the most crucial features are concentrated on the effect of macromolecular architecture, new monomer
systems, polymerization mechanisms and different polymerization techniques on final (bio)degradable properties.
Significant efforts have been directed towards the type of functional moieties and their influence on the
degradation manner. Presented methods should help to design novel biodegradable polymeric materials and to
avoid failures of the commercial products manufactured from them.
Green Synthesis of Pyrrole Derivatives
Authors: Portilla Zuniga Omar Miguel , Sathicq Angel Gabriel , Martinez Zambrano Jose Jobanny , Romanelli Gustavo Pablo
Published: April 2020

Background: Pyrroles are organic cyclic compounds with an extensive and fascinating chemistry.
These compounds have a wide structural variety and they are an important basis in technological development
as they can be used as drugs, dyes, catalysts, pesticides, etc. Therefore, the production of these heterocyclic
compounds by efficient clean methodologies is a great achievement in contemporary chemistry. In this paper,
we show recent green procedures in the synthesis of pyrrole derivatives such as Hantzsch, Knorr and Paal-
Knorr syntheses, as well as new eco-friendly synthetic procedures with high efficiency and low environmental
impact.

Objective: This work focusses on the recent advances in the pyrrole synthesis using clean techniques like
ultrasound (US), microwaves (MW), high speed vibration milling (HSVM), catalysts use, solvent replace and
other methodologies applied to common reactions to obtain the pyrrole core which follow the green chemistry
principles.

Conclusion: The main challenge of Green Chemistry is to gradually eliminate the generation of hazardous or
harmful materials or replace them with less toxic and safer ones. However, this process must be driven by scientific
developments. Its application in the synthesis of heterocyclic compounds such as pyrrole derivatives
involves multiple economic and social benefits due to the biological importance of these compounds and their
direct impact on the pharmaceutical industry. Although many processes are still under investigation using
novel methodologies of green activation such as microwaves, ultrasound and HSVM, as well as synthetic
processes in continuous flow and processes at room temperature, promising results such as cost and waste
reduction and greater efficiency are achieved.
(+)- and (-)-Itampolin A: First Total Synthesis, Anticancer Effect Through Inhibition of Phospho p38 Expression
Authors: Liang Jingwei , Li Xinyang , He Xin , Sun Qi , Zhang Tingjian , Meng Fanhao
Published: April 2020

Aim and Objective:

The brominated tyrosine alkaloids which have broad biological activity are
commonly found in marine sponges of the Verongida order, However, with the discovery of itampolin A and B
from the Madagascan sponge, Iotrochota purpurea, a plurality of brominated tyrosine derivatives have been
found in the sponge Iotrochota purpurea. This study was undertaken to study antitumor activity of itampolin A
and to explore the possible mechanism.

Material and Method:

The total synthesis of itampolin A was first performed to obtain purified brominated
tyrosine alkaloid, then the cytotoxicities of itampolin A were evaluated by MTT method against H460 and
A549 cells. To explore the possible mechanism, potential target identification by latest integrated pharmacophore
matching platform of itampolin A was carried out using PharmMapper Server. Finally, expression of
phospho p38α protein was studied using the western blot analysis.

Results:

Itampolin A and enantiomer of itampolin A were obtained, the latter is a novel compound named (-)-
itampolin A, which exhibited significant anticancer activity in the biological tests. After potential target identification
by latest integrated pharmacophore matching platform of itampolin A, p38α was screened out as the
target protein. Then in the Western-blot analysis, it was proposed that (-)-itampolin A inhibited tumor cells by
reducing the phospho-p38α expression.

Conclusion:

(+)-itampolin A was a brominated tyrosine derivative, isolated from the sponge Iotrochota purpurea.
For the first time, the total synthesis of itampolin A was achieved. The enantiomer, (-)-itampolin A was
found to show inhibitory activity on the cultured lung cancer A549 cells. The underlying anticancer mechanisms
may be associated with its binding to p38α and then decrease in the phospho-p38 expression.
Stem Cell Therapies for the Treatment of Diabetic Neuropathies: Future Perspectives
Authors: de Figueiredo Camila Saggioro , dos Reis Luiz Carlos
Published: April 2020

Background:

Background: Diabetic neuropathies (DN) are the most common complications in diabetic
patients, affecting about 70% of them. Patients with DN may lose sensation in certain areas of the body,
facilitating the onset of foot ulcers, as well as chronic pain. This is due to the progressive degeneration
of nerve fibers, demyelination, and axonopathy. Recent studies about stem cell therapies for the treatment
of DN show promising potential for tissue regeneration. Results with mesenchymal stem cells derived
from various organs/tissues demonstrate great therapeutic potential considering their easy obtainment,
as well as their immunomodulatory and pro-regenerative effects. However, problems such as cell
transplant rejection, tumor formation, transplantation safety, and effectiveness still need to be solved.
Developmental biology lacks detailed insights into some aspects of cell mechanisms, like the genetic
components of cell growth or differentiation. These gaps can limit a rapid advance in stem cell therapy
research and put it in the future a little bit farther from the expectations that have emerged in recent media.

Conclusion:

In the present review, we attempt to discuss the potential of most studied types of stem
cells, their application for the treatment of experimental diabetic neuropathies and associated clinical
manifestations including future perspectives around these themes.
A Novel Educational Control Group Mobile App for Meditation Interventions: Single-Group Feasibility Trial (Preprint)
Authors: Huberty Jennifer , Eckert Ryan , Puzia Megan , Laird Breanne , Larkey Linda , Mesa Ruben
Published: April 2020

BACKGROUND

Smartphone ownership is becoming ubiquitous among US adults, making the delivery of health interventions via a mobile app (ie, mobile health [mHealth]) attractive to many researchers and clinicians. Meditation interventions have become popular and have been delivered to study participants via mobile apps to improve a range of health outcomes in both healthy adults and those with chronic diseases. However, these meditation mHealth interventions have been limited by a lack of high-quality control groups. More specifically, these studies have lacked consistency in their use of active, time-matched, and attention-matched control groups.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study is to beta test a novel health education podcast control condition delivered via a smartphone app that would be a strong comparator to be used in future studies of app-based meditation interventions.

METHODS

Patients with myeloproliferative neoplasm (MPN) cancer were recruited nationally. Upon enrollment, participants were informed to download the investigator-developed health education podcast app onto their mobile phone and listen to ~60 min/week of cancer-related educational podcasts for 12 weeks. The benchmarks for feasibility included ≥70% of participants completing ≥70% of the prescribed 60 min/week of podcasts, ≥70% of participants reporting that they were satisfied with the intervention, and ≥70% of participants reporting that they enjoyed the health education podcasts.

RESULTS

A total of 96 patients with MPN were enrolled in the study; however, 19 never began the intervention. Of the 77 patients who participated in the intervention, 39 completed the entire study (ie, sustained participation through the follow-up period). Participation averaged 103.2 (SD 29.5) min/week. For 83.3% (10/12) of the weeks, at least 70% of participants completed at least 70% of their total prescribed use. Almost half of participants reported that they enjoyed the health education podcasts (19/39, 48.7%) and were satisfied with the intervention (17/39, 43.6%). There were no significant changes in cancer-related outcomes from baseline to postintervention.

CONCLUSIONS

A 12-week, health education podcast mobile app was demanded but not accepted in a sample of patients with cancer. Using the mobile app was not associated with significant changes in cancer-related symptoms. Based on findings from this study, a health education podcast mobile app may be a feasible option as a time- and attention-matched control group for efficacy trials with more extensive formative research for the content of the podcasts and its acceptability by the specific population.

CLINICALTRIAL

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03907774; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03907774
THE ROLE OF ACADEMIC ADVISORS IN IMPROVING MEDICAL STUDENTS’ MOTIVATION: A CASE-STUDY
Authors: Armyanti Ita
Published: April 2020

Introduction: Providing assistance and student support, especially in medical education, play pivotal role in medical students education. The role of academic advisor, would run properly, if it has the ability as a counselor. This article aims to describe the role of academic advisors in improving the learning motivaton in medical students, using case presentation approach.Discussion: The role of academic advisors as a counselor, would occur if it has ability as counselor, ability to empathize, effective communication skill, and tailored to students characteristics. Increasing students’ motivation, could be done through the utilization of the third environment. The family bonding plays an important role to imporve students’ learning motivation.Conclusion: Providing assistance and student support should be given according to students’ problems and characteristics. The role of an academic advisors, as a counselor, would improve students’ motivation to learn.
Empresas, derechos humanos y el régimen internacional del cambio climático: la configuración de las obligaciones climáticas para las empresas
Authors: Iglesias Márquez Daniel
Published: April 2020

La presente investigación analiza la interrelación entre el cambio climático, las empresas y los derechos humanos. Esto con el objetivo de discernir las obligaciones climáticas de las empresas, que consideramos deberían estar incluidas en el régimen internacional del cambio climático con el fin de que, junto con los Estados, compartan los compromisos vinculantes de reducción de emisiones de gases de efecto invernadero y aseguren las condiciones necesarias para el disfrute de los derechos humanos a través de la implementación de procesos efectivos e integrales de diligencia debida. Para ello, se analizan algunos instrumentos internacionales de softlaw que contienen o clarifican estándares climáticos aplicables a las operaciones de las empresas o reconocen el papel de las empresas en la lucha contra el cambio climático.
Una visión de la MINURSO. Antecedentes, evolución y perspectivas
Authors: Ruiz Miguel Carlos , Blanco Souto Yolanda
Published: April 2020

La Misión de Naciones Unidas para el Sahara Occidental (MINURSO) fue la más ambiciosa operación de mantenimiento de la paz en el momento de su creación en 1990. Este artículo estudia las fuentes de inspiración de la misma, para examinar después su normativa, sus misiones y su estructura. Tras ello se analiza la Misión desde las perspectivas del idioma, la nacionalidad y el sexo. Finalmente se juzgan sus resultados y se sugieren los cambios aconsejables en su mandato.
El andamiaje del regionalismo internacional penal africano: problemas y perspectivas
Authors: Tshitshi Ndouba Kayamba
Published: April 2020

El Protocolo de reforma del Protocolo relativo al Estatuto de la Corte Africana de Justicia y de Derechos Humanos (Protocolo de Malabo) extiende las competencias penales a la Corte Africana de Justicia y Derechos Humanos (CAJDH) para el enjuiciamiento criminal y la represión de los crímenes reconocidos en el derecho internacional. Este instrumento es la pieza fundamental en torno a la cual se desarrolla la primera experiencia global de regionalización del derecho internacional penal. Este artículo examina, desde una perspectiva crítica, las lagunas jurídicas y los elementos belígeros de este proceso, que vienen a advertir de la conflictividad previsible y de la concurrencia anunciada entre las dos jurisdicciones de derecho internacional penal: La Corte Africana de Justicia y de Derechos Humanos (CAJDH) et la Corte Internacional Penal (CPI).
Implicancias de la salida unilateral de los Estados Unidos del Acuerdo Nuclear con Irán
Authors: Calumani Quilca Milagros
Published: April 2020

El Acuerdo Nuclear firmado con Irán representó un gran hito de la administración Obama y garantizaba la no generación de armas nucleares en Irán durante 15 años, como comienzo. Sin embargo, en mayo del 2018 el presidente Donald Trump sorprendió a la comunidad internacional con la reimposición de sanciones a Irán y su salida unilateral del Acuerdo Nuclear. Esta decisión refleja su estilo de política exterior, pero también su alcance mundial, ambos temas serán analizados en el presente artículo.
The Diggers’ Festival, Organising a community festival with political connotations
Authors: Norton Jacqui
Published: April 2020

This chapter examines the organisation of a community festival from an ethnographic perspective drawn from the festival organiser’s viewpoint. It will provide some context on the reasons for founding the Diggers’ Festival and examine key issues and difficulties surrounding the launch and development of a small festival that relates to historical political activities in the market town of Wellingborough, Northamptonshire, UK. As we shall see, most current political festivals in the UK tend to be events launched to commemorate historical milestones that have a political resonance. The chapter will make specific reference to the festival’s funding, audiences and branding, concluding with recommendations on how to move the festival forward. During 2010 the author was asked by the Independent Socialists of Wellingborough (ISW) to organise an evening event to commemorate the 17th century radicals known as the Diggers. As an individual with socialist leanings, the author agreed to promote the first event, which was held during March 2011, and was launched and branded as the Wellingborough Diggers’ Festival. Even though it was in its infancy arguably only an evening event with two professional performers, Ian Saville, a magician who promotes himself as ‘Magic for Socialism’ (Saville, n.d.), and well-established local folk and Americana band The Old Speckled Men, booked, it was felt necessary to launch the festival name and the branding, with the aim being to produce a steady growth into the fourth or fifth years. It was essential to raise awareness of the identity and purpose of the festival amongst like-minded individuals, the local community and people from surrounding areas. The fourth festival grew from being organised solely by the author to having a committee of an additional five volunteers who coordinated an afternoon fringe event based in a town centre public house with three live music artists/bands, including punk/poet Attila the Stockbroker. A writer who had written historical fiction for teenagers, including one that takes its inspiration from Gerrard Winstan- ley and the Diggers, was invited as a guest speaker to present her work in the local library. The local museum hosted a week long display on the Diggers including a copy of the declaration and a copy of a field map dated 1838 identifying the location of the Bareshanks field (the site of the Wellingborough digger community). The programme for the evening event commenced with a local author Alan Moore (V for Vendetta, Watchmen) as a key speaker, followed by performances by two professional live bands with ‘left’ tendencies. In addition to the general considerations of organising a festival, for instance audience, budget, funding, licensing, entertainment and promotion, coordinating a festival with such strong socialist values was going to be a challenge because of the political connotations.
Mela in the UK: A ‘travelled and habituated’ festival
Authors: Kaushal Rakesh , Newbold Chris
Published: April 2020

Mela in the United Kingdom has become, in its short thirty year history, one of the most popular forms of festival entertainment. The word ‘mela’ itself, is based on the Sanskrit, meaning a community gathering or meeting, and in its many forms mela in the UK has remained true to this broad sense of people, families and communities congregating together in an atmosphere of festivity. At its roots, mela in the UK has evolved out of South Asian religious rites and rituals, and can also be seen to be built on South Asian folk and rural culture and traditions. However, at the core of the definition of mela is the notion of a gathering. This is most appropriate here in that it does not necessarily refer to any mono-cultural or religious focus, and is important when we observe how mela has ‘travelled’ and become ‘habituated’ in the UK. Carnegie and Smith (2006) identify Edinburgh Mela as having travelled but in this chapter, whilst recognising the travelled nature of mela that they refer to, we indicate that it is the habituated nature of mela that more clearly identifies its nature and existence in the UK. Therefore, this chapter will document that, after 25 to 30 years, mela in the UK can be seen to be adopting its own traditions and connotations. Moreover, by the very nature of the modern diverse British population, mela is now largely urbanised and many continue to reflect South Asian religious festivals, be they Boishakhi Melas (Brick Lane London), Holi Hai Melas (Oxford) or Eid Melas (Birmingham), but others have lost touch with these roots as the demands of festival and cultural event management and venue availability have led to other requirements taking priority. The focus of the research presented here is concerned with the manifestation of mela in the UK and, in particular, how it has adapted to the various town and city locations in which it is now a fundamental part of the cultural events calendar. The importance of mela in terms of economic impact and tourism may be one reason why mela is popular with local authorities.