bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Active Learning: English Language Teaching via Write Share Learn Strategy
Authors: Demirci Cavide , Akcaalan Mehmet
Published: May 2020

The aim of investigation is to examine opinions of 11th grade high school students via “write, share,
learn strategy” of active learning approach in language teaching. The students were asked some
questions so as to determine their opinions for the strategy. The questions for the students were
created by three English teachers and a university instructor. The students in the research studied in
the 11th grade and their class size consisted of 20 students. The application of the write, share and
learn strategy was lasted in 5 lessons time in two weeks. So as to apply the active learning strategy
smoothly, the music lesson classroom of the school was used by admittance of school principal. It
may be understood that the students’ satisfaction about the lesson was compelled to rise by the
active learning strategy. Write, share and learn strategy of active learning pedagogy has an
importantly strong effects on students’ learning perceptions. The results demonstrate that
compounding these aspects of active learning may support teachers to teach efficaciously and so
students can acquire actively in learning settings
Mathematical models for the estimation of leaf chlorophyll content based on RGB colours of contact imaging with smartphones: A pomegranate example
Authors: Özreçberoğlu Nurdan , Kahramanoğlu İbrahim
Published: May 2020

The objective of this study was to develop a mathematical model for the non-destructive, fast estimation of the leaf chlorophyll (Chl) content of pomegranate trees. For this reason, contact images of the leaf samples were firstly captured with smartphones and the RGB colours of the images were used for the estimation of the leaf Chl contents. Here, different methods were used for the contact imaging. In the present study, two closed boxes with a small hole (equal to the dimensions of a smartphone camera) on each were formed. Samples were inserted into the hole; and a red LED light and white LED light, separately, were passed through the hole and the leaf. Furthermore, a series of models were tested to best estimate the leaf chlorophyll content of the pomegranate trees by using the RGB colours of contact imaging. Results showed that the use of red LED light sources, instead of white LED light sources, during contact imaging, provides a better estimation of the leaf Chl content. Results also suggest that colour values are highly related to the total weight of the contact imaging area. According to the results obtained, the best estimation of the leaf Chl content (of a given area) is possible by using both the G and B colour values with multiple regression models. It is also found to be important to use the weight of the sampled area for the estimation of the leaf chlorophyll content in mg ∙ g−1.
Crowd Innovation: The Philosopher’s Stone, a Silver Bullet, or Pandora’s Box?
Authors: Matzler Kurt
Published: May 2020

All kinds of organizations have tapped into crowds to find individuals who can help them solve problems and develop innovations. Crowdsourcing makes it possible to attract a highly diverse audience that approaches innovation challenges from new angles. To develop groundbreaking innovations, companies are after exceptional ideas – and those are more likely to be found in large crowds rather than small internal groups. Furthermore, participants in crowd projects select the challenges they are really interested in themselves, due to which their motivation and engagement levels tend to be high. In collaborative crowdsourcing projects, new and better ideas can emerge when crowds share information freely, build on other ideas and are able to accumulate and recombine different concepts.

Despite these advantages there are risks: costs and effort might be underestimated, or organizations might fail to control their crowds. And the crowd can sometimes also be wrong. Managers need to carefully analyze which solutions they seek and whether their problems can be solved through crowdsourcing. Not all innovation needs are suitable for open innovation, but crowdsourcing can have remarkable success if applied wisely to the right challenges.
Strategies for Leveraging Crowds
Authors: Dahlander Linus , Piezunka Henning
Published: May 2020

Crowds can be very effective, but that is not always the case. To actually render the usage of crowds effective, several factors need to be aligned: crowd composition, the right question at the right time, and the right analytic method applied to the responses. Specific skills are mandatory to tap into the creativity of a crowd, harness it effectively and transform it into offers that markets value.

The “DBAS” framework is recommended to successfully implement a crowd project. It consists of four stages, and in each phase some key questions need to be addressed. Each decision along the DBAS pathway matters and how you navigate each stage can either reinforce or undermine decisions made at the other stages. The right degree of innovativeness, listening to contributors and informing participants openly about the fate of rejected ideas are key success factors that require special attention. To continually improve the odds of success, crowdsourcing should best be treated as a continual iterative churn.
Open Strategy: The Inclusion of Crowds in Making Strategies
Authors: Stadler Christian , Hautz Julia , von den Eichen Stephan Friedrich
Published: May 2020

While innovation contests have become very popular, the inclusion of crowds in the strategy process is less common. Some recent implementations are blogging, wikis, jams, ideation contests and community platforms or prediction markets. The most common goal of using crowds in strategy is to generate novel and unconventional ideas concerning a company’s strategic direction. Also, increasing internal participation and including employees on a larger scale can improve the implementation of a strategy. Other organizations state that by including a broader set of stakeholders, they can make the strategy formation process more transparent and comprehensible to the general public or their customers, which makes them able to increase external acceptance. On the other hand, the inclusion of larger audiences increases complexity, and involving employees makes it more difficult for managers to remain in control. Projects need to be well-conceived, well-planned and well-funded. Organizations need to remain flexible, learn from experiences and be ready to adjust tools and activities whenever necessary.
Case Study “Crowdsourcing@Rivella”: In Search of New Flavors
Authors: Brauen Silvan
Published: May 2020

The development of new beverage concepts in close cooperation with consumers via crowdsourcing was a great success for Rivella AG overall, but the approach did not remain without certain difficulties and challenges. For example, when reviewing the more than 800 ideas, the Rivella innovation team observed that a very small group of users had put certain ideas in the foreground.

It is therefore advisable to take a closer look at outcomes and not just blindly trust a crowd. Another challenge of the crowdsourcing approach was the considerably increased management effort for the in-house innovation teams. Practice also showed that platform users in crowdsourcing projects are often attracted by ideas with a certain degree of originality and novelty. While finding truly new ideas is one of the main reasons for involving external crowds in the first place, Rivella noted that aspects such as feasibility, profitability and the strategic sense of an idea rather tend to remain on the sidelines in a typical process.
Seromucinous hamartoma of the sinonasal tract: report of a rare case
Authors: Pauna Henrique Furlan , Sakano Eulalia , Guimarães Alexandre Caixeta
Published: May 2020

Background:

The sinonasal tract is anatomically complex and it houses a wide variety of inflammatory, benign, and malignant lesions. While inflammatory polyps are easily recognized by the pathologists, the nasal hamartoma still poorly understood. Seromucinous hamartoma have only been recognized over the past few years. They are a diagnostic challenge, needing to be distinguished from low-grade adenocarcinomas, and are of interest because most of the basic questions about their pathophysiology remain unanswered.

Case presentation:

We present a case of seromucinous hamartoma with features that partly expand the morphologic spectrum of these lesions, in a 50-year-old man. We also discuss the differential diagnosis and review the literature to compare our findings with previously reported cases with the aim of better understanding this interesting entity.

Conclusion:

Seromucinous hamartoma is a condition that may mimic several different sinonasal tumors, and further discussion and research are necessary to evaluate its full long-term impact.
Host preferences of wood-decaying fungi of the genus Ganoderma in the urban areas of Slovakia
Authors: Beck Terézia , Gáper Ján , Šebesta Martin , Gáperová Svetlana
Published: May 2020

Ganoderma (Basidiomycota, Polyporales) is a cosmopolitan genus with the greatest diversity in the tropics. It causes white rot of a wide range of woody plants all over the world. In Europe, 7 species of the genus Ganoderma grow: Ganoderma adspersum, G. applanatum, G. carnosum, G. lucidum, G. pfeifferi, G. resinaceum and G. valesiacum. All of them also occur in Slovakia. The aim of the present study was to identify the presence of Ganoderma species in the urban areas of Slovakia and to find out their host preferences and topology of the basidiocarps on the colonised trees. A total 263 findings of Ganoderma obtained by own field research and processing of records from herbarium items located in natural museums in Bratislava (Slovakia) and Prague (Czech Republic) were analysed to detect their ecological characteristics. The occurrence of all 7 Ganoderma species was  recorded in the urban areas of Slovakia. The most common species is G. adspersum (39% of all records) with the widest range of host woody plants (24 species). G. applanatum is second most widespread species in the urban areas of Slovakia growing mostly on a decomposing wood of unknown trees (31% of all findings) and also on beeches (9% of all findings). G. resinaceum is third most widespread in the urban areas and it grew mainly on Quercus. G. lucidum was most often found on unknown trees (65% of all findings) and also on oaks (16% of all findings). The rarest Ganoderma species are G. valesiacum (only 1 record on Larix sp.), G. pfeifferi (4 records, mainly on Fagus sylvatica) and G. carnosum (4% of all records, mainly on a decomposing wood of unknown trees).
The impact of UDN on selected blood parameters of female sea trout Salmo trutta m. trutta (L.) spawners
Authors: Ciepliński Mateusz , Kasprzak Mariusz , Grandtke Monika , Steliga Aleksandra , Kamiński Piotr , Jerzak Leszek
Published: May 2020

Blood tests were performed on 150 females sea trouts Salmo trutta m. trutta L. during four spawning seasons (2014–2017). Fish were caught on a Polish Angling Association trapping point, the Słupia River, Słupsk (northern Poland). The blood for analysis was drawn from caudal vein of 56 healthy and 94 UDN (Ulcerative Dermal Necrosis) – infected females. Fish were divided into three groups: (1) healthy, with no visible signs of UDN, (2) sick, with up to 10% skin damage and (3) agonal, where more than 10% of body surface was infected.

Statistically important decrease in red blood cell count (RBC), hemoglobin concentration (HGB) and hematocrit (HCT) were found between sick and agonal fish groups. Concentration of total plasma protein and albumin decreased, in relation to fish health deterioration. Blood urea nitrogen (BUN) had an inverse proportionality to total plasma protein and albumin concentration. Based on decrease of RBC, HGB and HCT due to UDN symptoms development a decrease in fish condition was observed. Significantly higher urea concentrations observed in agonal fish may indicates respiratory and excretory systems failure.
Selected blood parameters in organically raised hens fed with purple coneflower supplemented diet**
Authors: Sosnówka-Czajka Ewa , Skomorucha Iwona
Published: May 2020

The aim of the study was to determine the effect of dietary addition of dried purple coneflower (Echinacea purpurea (L.) Moench) on selected blood parameters of chicks and hens of the native ‘Greenleg Partridge’ breed (Z-11), maintained on a certified poultry farm according to organic farming principles. Birds were divided into two groups according to diet: organic layer diet (group 1), and the same diet supplemented with certified purple coneflower from 20 weeks of age at 10 g/kg feed (group 2). Layers were fed the certified layer diet (17% protein and 11.1 MJ ME/kg diet) following organic farming principles. Experimental incubations were performed at 34 wks of age. Blood was collected from laying hens at 34 wks and from newly hatched chicks at one day of age to determine selected blood parameters. The organically raised ‘Greenleg Partridge’ hens and chicks responded to the purple coneflower supplement by changes in blood picture, which are important indicators of avian health and condition. As in Z-11 chicks, purple coneflower supplemented to the layer diet reduced the H:L ratio and induced a tendency for higher level of the immunoglobulin complex and IgG in blood, which shows their better living comfort and higher immunity. Dietary purple coneflower was observed to have no effect on the level of hematocrit, erythrocytes and leukocytes. High individual variation occurred for the immunoglobulin complex and IgG in the organically raised ‘Greenleg Partridge’ hens.
Dietary supplementation with algae and polyphenols in rabbit male: Effects on semen quality traits
Authors: Vizzarri Francesco , Palazzo Marisa M. , Casamassima Donato , Corino Carlo , Chiapparini Sara , Ondruska Lubomir , Knizatova Nikola , Massanyi Martin , Tirpak Filip , Massanyi Peter
Published: May 2020

In recent years, many studies have been focused on natural substances that can affect health of animals. A mix of different extracts was used as dietary supplement and it consists exclusively of natural products. Its main components are polyphenols from terrestrial and marine origins and plant polysaccharides. The effect of this supplement on reproduction has not been reviewed in the past what is a reason why its effect on the reproduction potential of male rabbits was tested. The aim of the present study is to determine effects of natural mix during 120-days long in vivo experiment on selected reproductive traits of male rabbits. Natural mix was supplemented in two different concentrations (T1 – 0.3% and T2 – 0.6%) with the basal ingredients of the conventional rabbit feed in pellet form. In our experiments, emphasis was placed on both the spermatozoa concentration and its motility parameters as well as on the properties of seminal plasma and antioxidant activity. The dietary supplementation with the natural extracts mix positively altered the quality traits of rabbit spermatozoa, but these changes were statistically not significant. In experimental T1 group a significant increase of GPx and FRAP content, both regarding the antioxidant markers profile in seminal plasma was recorded. We can conclude that the supplementation of 0.3% of natural mix did not significantly negatively affect any of the studied reproductive parameters of male rabbits, but some improvement in several antioxidant parameters was found.
Does benzo[a]pyrene affect the heart embryonic development?
Authors: Kołodziejczyk Łukasz M. , Puzik Magdalena , Greń Agnieszka , Batoryna Marta , Formicki Grzegorz , Kapusta Edyta
Published: May 2020

Benzo[a]pyrene is a polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon of well proved toxic effect on animal cells and tissues. We used chicken in ovo developmental model to verify its influence on selected parameters of the heart rhythm and on the antioxidative defense in the heart tissue. We determined that the dose of 1 mg/kg weight of eggs of benzo[a]pyrene strongly activates the glutathione-dependent antioxidative system, but it do not significantly affect the heart conducting system of the chicken embryo. We postulate that further study on the benzo[a]pyrene action during embryonic development of birds is recommended.
Antioxidant enzymes activity, GSH and MDA level in eggs from heritage breeds
Authors: Muchacka Renata , Sosnówka-Czajka Ewa , Skomorucha Iwona , Kapusta Edyta , Greń Agnieszka , Goc Zofia
Published: May 2020

The objective of the study was to determine the activity of antioxidant enzymes and the level of GSH and MDA in yolk and albumen of hen’s eggs. The experiment was carried out with 99 hens of three heritage breeds (‘Greenleg Partridge’ – group I, ‘Sussex’ – group II, ‘Rhode Island Red’ – group III). Layers were reared in the litter system and had outdoor access. Birds were fed ad libitum standard diets based on concentrates for laying hens and had free access to water throughout the experiment. All the groups were managed under uniform environmental (air humidity and temperature, lighting programme) and feeding conditions. At 48 weeks of age, 6 eggs from each group were collected. In the samples of egg yolks and albumens the concentration of GSH and MDA, and activity of SOD, GPx and CAT were estimated. The results were statistically analysed by one-way analysis of variance and significant differences were estimated with Duncan’s multiple range test. The highest activity of SOD, the highest level of GSH and the lowest level of MDA were characterised by eggs from ‘Sussex’ hens, which may indicate their best quality. Based on the obtained results, it can be concluded that the activity of antioxidant enzymes (mainly SOD) and the levels of GSH and MDA which occur in eggs may depend on the breed of hens.
Inspirations by plant in the decorative motifs of St. Mary’s Basilica in Kraków (Poland)
Authors: Brišová Adriana
Published: May 2020

The aim behind this study was to identify the plants which are the floristic motifs of ornaments inside of Church of Our Lady Assumed into Heaven in Kraków. The art techniques used in ornaments submitted to the analysis were: paintings, sculptures and stained glass-works. The analysis was based on the photographs of various parts of the St. Mary's Basilica taken between 2017 and 2018. Identified species of plants were presented in the table.

In the analysis performed here, the author was focused on the symbolism of chosen floral art motifs, since the artist’s botanical knowledge was not the only inspiration for utilising such decorations. Due to its symbolism, the motif of flowers was commonly used in the religious art, highlighting the dignity and majesty of this beautiful place of worship. Even though the meaning of plants as a symbol often depends on the cultural basis in which the work is done, there are some examples of plants that are widely known as religious symbols by everyone.
Selected environmental issues of the landscape of shale (Nízký Jeseník Mt., Czechia) – preliminary results
Authors: Kupka Jiří , Švehláková Hana , Poláček Rostislav
Published: May 2020

The area of the Nízký Jeseník Mts. is, among other things, well known for its shale roofing tiles since the 18th century. In places where shale was intensively or extensively exploited until 1945, abandoned areas after mining works remained. In general, every mining is perceived as a activity of landscape degradation by the public. However, these indelible traces of shale mining in the form of various mining-related objects (e.g. abandoned quarries, quarry ponds, shafts, drains etc.) are also gradually becoming places that are colonised by unique plant and animal communities. There are very interesting species bond to specific environmental conditions of post-mining landscape, with frequent rare and endangered species. People have also become ‘new’ colonisers in the case of the shale landscape.
Evaluation of yield traits in some primitive wheat genotypes to ensure sustainability of wheat production
Authors: Saleh Maysoun Mohamad , Alsarhan Fariza Alsarhan
Published: May 2020

Study was conducted at Al-Raqqa Research Centre in The General Commission for Scientific Agricultural Research in Syria during the growing seasons 2011/2012. Eight primitive wheat genotypes and two local cultivated varieties were planted in Randomized Complete Block Design in three replications, yield components (number of fertile tillers, number and weight of grains per spike and weight of thousand grain) were studied. Results showed that the genotype Persian 64 was significantly superior in three traits of yield components (number of fertile tillers, number and weight of grains per spike) comparing to the check sham5, and also the genotype Polish 194 was significantly superior in weight of thousand grain comparing to both checks sham3 and sham5 (53.12, 40.80, 40.02) g respectively with an increase rate 30.20% and 32.73% comparing to both checks sham3 and sham5 respectively. It is recommended to use the superior genotypes in breeding programs to ensure the sustainability of wheat production.
CAPACIDADE PULMONAR E FUNCIONAL NO PÓS-OPERATÓRIO DE MULHERES SUBMETIDAS À MASTECTOMIA: SÉRIE DE CASOS
Authors: Gesser Ana Flávia , Francisco Davi de Souza , Peruzzolo Catherine Corrêa , Honório Gesilani Julia da Silva , Sperandio Fabiana Flores , Ferrazeane Elaine Paulin
Published: May 2020

Mulheres submetidas à cirurgia de mastectomia podem apresentar algumas complicações, dentre elas, alterações respiratórias e prejuízo funcional. O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a cinemática da parede torácica e a capacidade funcional no pós-operatório de pacientes mastectomizadas sem tratamento neoadjuvante e adjuvante associados. Foram avaliadas 4 mulheres no grupo mastectomia (GM) e 4 mulheres no grupo controle (GC). Todas as participantes foram submetidas aos procedimentos de avaliação antropométrica, função pulmonar, força muscular respiratória, cinemática da parede torácica e capacidade funcional. O GM também foi submetido à avaliação de inspeção e palpação torácica. Os dados foram analisados por meio de estatística descritiva. Foi observado que o GM apresentou menor variação de volume corrente da parede torácica, com delta de variação de 22,03% a menos que o GC, sendo a maior redução de volume corrente evidenciada no compartimento de caixa torácica pulmonar, com redução de 41,57% em relação ao GC. O GM não apresentou alterações de função pulmonar, força muscular respiratória e capacidade funcional, apresentando valores de normalidade nestas avaliações. Portanto, mulheres submetidas ao procedimento cirúrgico de mastectomia, sem tratamento neoadjuvante e adjuvante associados, não apresentaram comprometimento da função pulmonar, da força muscular respiratória e da capacidade funcional, contudo foi verificado redução do volume pulmonar na região do procedimento cirúrgico.Palavras-chave: Mastectomia. Cinemática da parede torácica. Tolerância ao exercício.
PENINGKAT EFEKTIVITAS BERKOMUNIKASI DAN HASIL BELAJAR SISWA KELAS IV PADA PEMBELAJARAN IPA MELALUI MODEL OPEN ENDED DI SDN 26 KAMPUNG AUR KAB PESISIR SELATAN
Authors: Santika Mira , Gusmaweti Gusmaweti , Amrina Zulfa
Published: May 2020

The purpose of this study was to describe the increase in the effectiveness of communication and learning outcomes of fourth grade students in learning science through the Open Ended in SDN 26 Kampung Aur, this type of research is a class act, with the subject of the fourth grade students of SDN 26 Kampung Aur, which has 21 students. Research was conducted in the second semester of the school year of 2015/2016, the research instrument used is the effectiveness of communicating student sheets, sheets of assessment of learning outcomes in the cognitive aspects of students at level C1 (knowledge) and C2 (understanding). Based on the research results, the effectiveness of communicating students on the aspects asked in the first cycle obtain an average value of 49.99% increase in cycle II to 67.45%, the effectiveness of communicating students on aspects of the answer in the first cycle obtain an average value of 53.96% increased in the second cycle to 71.42%. While the results of student learning at the cognitive level C1 (knowledge) in the first cycle increase in cycle II 68.33 into 80.47, cognitive learning outcomes in level C2 (understanding) in the first cycle increase in cycle II 58.09 to 71.42 , It can be concluded that the Open Ended learning model can increase the effectiveness of communication and student learning outcomes in science teaching fourth grade SDN26 Kampung Aur.Keywords: Communicating Effectiveness, Results Learning, Model Open Ended, IPA
POLA PENGASUHAN ANAK DALAM KONTEKS PENDIDIKAN PERAN PEMERINTAH DAN ORANG TUA
Authors: Hartanto Dicki , Yuliani Sri
Published: May 2020

This study would like to reveal the magnitude of the role of parents, especiallymothers in educating children and this should be one of the important considerationsin fostering a bright future family. But what happens is just the opposite, where withthe growing number of children, the easier it is for parents to hand over theireducation and care to other parties or people, including formal education institutions.This study uses qualitative methods through related literature review. The results ofthis study revealed the importance of the government playing a role in educationthrough special attention to the existence of formal and non-formal educationinstitutions. In addition, government care is also important in improving the quality ofeducation for mothers as informal education providers for children. Though as amother who has a big role in parenting and children's education plays a veryimportant role so that the influence of the planting of children's intelligence should berealized by the mother. In order to be able to compete with other countries in thefuture, then a great attention to efforts to empower children needs to be improved.The government through institutions such as the Minister of National Education, theMinister of Women Empowerment, Minister of Health, BKKBN and others canbecome pioneers through related policies. Of course the Government must strive sothat the interest is accompanied by providing sufficient knowledge to the mothers. Therole of parents in the context of education also needs to be realized and improved inthe future.Kata kunci: Childcare, Education, Government Role
Catalysis-in-a-Box: Robotic Screening of Catalytic Materials in the Time of COVID-19
Authors: Kumar Gaurav , Bossert Hannah , McDonald Daniel , Chatzidmitriou Anargyros , Ardagh M. Alexander , Pang Yutong , Lee ChoongSze , Tsapatsis Michael , Abdelrahman Omar , Dauenhauer Paul
Published: May 2020

The emergence of a viral pandemic has motivated the transition away from traditional, labor-intensive materials testing techniques to new automated approaches without compromising on data quality and at costs viable for academic laboratories. Reported here is the design and implementation of an autonomous micro-flow reactor for catalyst evaluation condensing conventional laboratory-scale analogues within a single gas chromatograph (GC), enabling the control of relevant parameters including reactor temperature and reactant partial pressures directly from the GC. Inquiries into the hydrodynamic behavior, temperature control, and heat/mass transfer were sought to evaluate the efficacy of the micro-flow reactor for kinetic measurements. As a catalyst material screening example, a combination of four Brønsted acid catalyzed probe reactions, namely the dehydration of ethanol, 2-propanol, 1-butanol, and the dehydra-decyclization of 2-methyltetrahydrofuran on a solid acid HZSM-5 (Si/Al 140), were carried out in the temperature range 403-543 K for the measurement of apparent reaction kinetics. Product selectivities, proton-normalized reaction rates, and apparent activation barriers were in agreement with measurements performed on conventional packed bed flow reactors. Furthermore, the developed micro-flow reactor was demonstrated to be about ten-fold cheaper to fabricate than commercial automated laboratory-scale reactor setups and is intended to be used for kinetic investigations in vapor-phase catalytic chemistries, with the key benefits including automation, low cost, and limited experimental equipment instrumentation.
Single-Molecule Junction Origami
Authors: Wu Chuanli , Bates Demetris , Sangtarash Sara , Ferri Nicolò , Thomas Aidan , Higgins Simon , Robertson Craig M. , Nichols Richard , Sadeghi Hatef , Vezzoli Andrea
Published: May 2020

Stimuli-responsive molecular junctions, where the conductance can be altered by an external perturbation, are an important class of nanoelectronic devices. These have recently attracted interest as large effects can be introduced through exploitation of quantum phenomena. We show here that significant changes in conductance can be attained as a molecule is repeatedly compressed and relaxed, resulting in molecular folding along a flexible fragment and cycling between an anti and a syn conformation. Power spectral density analysis and DFT transport calculations show that through-space tunnelling between two phenyl fragments is responsible for the conductance increase as the molecule is mechanically folded to the syn conformation. This phenomenon represents a novel class of mechanoresistive molecular devices, where the functional moiety is embedded in the conductive backbone and exploits intramolecular nonbonding interactions, in contrast to most studies where mechanoresistivity arises from changes in the molecule-electrode interface.
One-Pot Synthesis and Conformational Analysis of 6-Membered Cyclic Iodonium Salts
Authors: Caspers Lucien , Spils Julian , Damrath Mattis , Lork Enno , Nachtsheim Boris
Published: May 2020

In this article we describe an efficient approach for the synthesis of cyclic diaryliodonium salts. The method is based on benzyl alcohols as starting materials and consists of an Friedel-Crafts-arylation/oxidation sequence. Besides a deep optimization, particluar focusing on the choice and ratios of the utilized Bronsted-acids and oxidants, we explore the substrate scope of this transformation. We also discuss an interesting isomerism of cyclic iodonium salts substituted with aliphatic substituents at the bridge head carbon.
In Search for Effective and Safe Drugs Against SARS-CoV-2: Part II] the Role of Selected Salts and Organometallics of Copper, Zinc, Selenium, and Iodine Food Supplements
Authors: Abdel-Mottaleb M. Sabry , Abdel-Mottaleb Yousra
Published: May 2020

Three organometallics and three inorganic food supplements were selected, and their binding to specific peptide sequences of the coronavirus S-protein: ACE2 interface-drug binding adduct were computed. The chosen molecules located themselves to achieve geometries of minimum energy resulting in limiting viral recognition of the host cells or disturbing the host-virus interactions. Electrophilicity and nucleophilicity indices, based on the HOMO – LUMO frontier orbitals, were successfully used to explain the simulation results. Zinc and copper-supplements act as electron donors (nucleophiles) towards the ACE2 (electrophile), whereas the S protein remains inert. Molecular iodine acts as a strong electron sink in all of its unstable adducts with the ACE2, or the S protein, and in its adduct with both. Iodine is a stand-in as an electron shield to the ACE2. Currently, exploiting iodine has not been attempted, and it has been forgotten; while it has been used successfully in the treatment of the Spanish flu that started early 1918 and killed 30 million people. The results obtained strongly suggest the beneficial use of iodine. Selenodiglutathione exhibits strong electrophilic property and turns the S protein into an electron sink virus in the presence of ACE2, which behaves like an electron donor. Contrary to zinc gluconate and iodine, the presence of selenomethionine, copper sulfate, selenodiglutathione, or sodium selenite strengthens the ACE2 – S protein interaction. The results reported indicate the association of common food supplements to offer protection and/or treatment against coronavirus S-protein COVID-19. These findings indicate also that these simple methods could help with the fight against COVID-19.
Identification of Potential Drug Targets and Prediction of the Potential Impact of High Risk Non Synonymous Single Nucleotide Polymorphism in SARS-CoV-2 3C like Proteinase (3CLpro): A Computational Approach
Authors: Elbager Sahar , hamza abdelrahman , Bkrye Afra M. Al , Alrashied Asia M. , Ali Entisar N. M. , Mohamed Hadeel A. , Abubaker Hazem A. , Mohamed Israa A. , Goda Manal A. H. , Basher Mohammed Y. , Gabir Naglla F.A. , Khalil Safinaz I.
Published: May 2020

On January 2020, a new coronavirus (officially named SARS-CoV-2) was associated with alarming outbreak of a pneumonia-like illness, which was later named by the WHO as COVID-19, originating from Wuhan City, China. Although many clinical studies involving antiviral and immunomodulatory drug treatments for SARS-CoV-2 all without reported results, no approved drugs have been found to effectively inhibit the virus so far. Full genome sequencing of the virus was done, and uploaded to be freely available for the world scientists to explore. A promising target for SARS-CoV-2 drug design is a chymotrypsin-like cysteine protease (3CLpro), a main protease responsible for the replication and maturation of functional proteins in the life cycle of the SARS coronavirus. Here we aim to explore SARS-CoV-2 3CLpro as possible drug targets based on ligand- protein interactions. In addition, ADME properties of the ligands were also analyzed to predict their drug likeliness. The results revealed Out of 9 ligands, 8 ligands (JFM, X77, RZG, HWH, T8A, 0EN, PEPTIDE and DMS) showed best ADME properties. These findings suggest that these ligands can be used as potential molecules for developing potent inhibitors against SARS-CoV-2 3CLpro, which could be helpful in inhibiting the propagation of the COVID-19. Furthermore, 10 potential amino acids residues were recognized as potential drug binding site (THR25, HIS41, GLY143, SER144, CYS145, MET165, GLU166, GLN189, ASP295 and ARG298). All those amino acid residues were subjected to missense SNP analysis were recognized to affect the structure and function of the protein. These characteristics provide them the promising to be target sites for the fresh generation inhibitors to work with and overcome drug resistance. These findings would be beneficial for the drug development for inhibiting SARS-CoV-2 3CLpro hence assisting the pharmacogenomics effort to manage the infection. of SARS-CoV-2.
Stimuli-Responsive Cycloaurated ‘OFF-ON’ Switchable Anion Transporters
Authors: Fares Mohamed , Wu Xin , Ramesh Deepthi , Lewis William , Keller Paul , Howe Ethan , Pérez-Tomás Ricardo , Gale Philip
Published: May 2020

Anion transporters have shown potential application as anti-cancer agents that function by disrupting homeostasis and triggering cell death. In this research article we report switchable anion transport by gold complexes of anion transporters that are ‘switched on’ in the presence of the reducing agent GSH by decomplexation of gold. GSH is found in higher concentrations in tumours than in healthy tissue and hence offers a strategy to target these systems to tumours.
A Multiphoton Single-Electron Reduction of Olefins via Tandem Photoredox Catalysis
Authors: Horngren Tyra , Taylor Mitchell S. , Czyz Milena , Polyzos Anastasios
Published: May 2020

Herein we report a visible light multiphoton tandem photoredox catalysis strategy enabling a distinctive mode of olefin activation via a one electron reduction to the corresponding radical anion. This highly nucleophilic intermediate was harnessed to develop a method for the formal hydrogenation of unactivated alkenes under mild reaction conditions, in the absence of hydrogen gas or dissolving metals.
Screening and Druggability Analysis of Some Plant Metabolites Against SARS-CoV-2
Authors: Azim Kazi Faizul , Ahmed Sheikh Rashel , Banik Anik , Khan Md. Mostafigur Rahman , Deb Anamika
Published: May 2020

The sudden outbreak of novel corona virus at the end of 2019 has caused a global threat to mankind due to its extreme infection rate and mortality. Despite extensive research, still there is no an approved drug or vaccine to combat SARS-CoV-2 infections. Hence, the study was designed to evaluate some plant-based active compounds for drug candidacy against SARS-CoV-2 by using virtual screening methods and various computational analysis. A total of 27 plant metabolites were screened against SARS-Cov-2 main protease proteins (MPP), Nsp9 RNA binding protein, spike receptor binding domain, spike ecto-domain and HR2 domain using molecular docking approach. Four metabolites i.e. asiatic acid, avicularin, guajaverin and withaferin showed maximum binding affinity with all key proteins in terms of lowest global binding energy. The top candidates were further employed for ADME (absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion) analysis to investigate their drug profiles. Results suggest that none of the compounds render any undesirable consequences that could reduce their drug likeness properties. The analysis of toxicity pattern revealed no significant tumorigenic, mutagenic, irritating or reproductive effects by the compounds. However, witheferin was comparatively toxic among the top four candidates with considerable cytotoxicity and immunotoxicity. Most of the target class by top drug candidates belonged to enzyme groups (e.g. oxidoreductases hydrolases, phosphatases). Moreover, results of drug similarity prediction identified two approved structural analogs of Asiatic acid from DrugBank, Hydrocortisone (DB00741) (previously used for SARS-CoV-1 and MERS) and Dinoprost-tromethamine (DB01160). In addition, two other biologically active compounds, Mupirocin (DB00410) and Simvastatin (DB00641) could be an alternative choice to witheferin for the treatment of viral infections. The study may pave the way to develop effective medications and preventive measure against SARS-CoV-2 in the future. However, the results were based solely on computational tools and algorithms. Due to the encouraging results, we highly recommend further in vivo trials for the experimental validation of our findings.
Pancreatic cancer triggers diabetes through TGF-β–mediated selective depletion of islet β-cells
Authors: Parajuli Parash , Nguyen Thien Ly , Prunier Céline , Razzaque Mohammed S , Xu Keli , Atfi Azeddine
Published: May 2020

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a lethal disease that remains incurable because of late diagnosis, which renders any therapeutic intervention challenging. Most PDAC patients develop de novo diabetes, which exacerbates their morbidity and mortality. How PDAC triggers diabetes is still unfolding. Using a mouse model of KrasG12D-driven PDAC, which faithfully recapitulates the progression of the human disease, we observed a massive and selective depletion of β-cells, occurring very early at the stages of preneoplastic lesions. Mechanistically, we found that increased TGF beta (TGF-β) signaling during PDAC progression caused erosion of β-cell mass through apoptosis. Suppressing TGF-β signaling, either pharmacologically through TGF-β immunoneutralization or genetically through deletion of Smad4 or TGF-β type II receptor (TβRII), afforded substantial protection against PDAC-driven β-cell depletion. From a translational perspective, both activation of TGF-β signaling and depletion of β-cells frequently occur in human PDAC, providing a mechanistic explanation for the pathogenesis of diabetes in PDAC patients, and further implicating new-onset diabetes as a potential early prognostic marker for PDAC.
Effect of gamma irradiation on physicochemical characteristics and microbiological quality at different ratio of tapioca and potato starches of flat rice noodle
Authors: M.D. Ahmad Zainuri , W.I. Wan-Zunairah , A.R. Farah-Nadiah , M.H.B. Fatimah , M.A.R. Nor-Khaizura , M. Nor Afizah , M.R. Ismail-Fitry , S. Radhiah , Z.A. Nur Hanani
Published: May 2020

Flat rice noodle is classified under non-wheat noodles due to the absence of gluten and
required gelatinization of starch during processing. It is also very susceptible to spoilage
and has a short shelf-life because of the high moisture content. This study was conducted
to investigate and compare the effect of gamma irradiation on the physicochemical
characteristics and microbiological quality of containing two different starches. Tapioca
starch (TS) and potato starch (PS) were incorporated into the formulations at 3 levels (3%,
8% and 11%) and was irradiated at 4 doses of 0 (control), 4, 6, and 8 kGy with dose rate
of 42.78 Gy/min by using 60Cobalt. Total plate count (TPC) was performed where samples
were stored at 8°C and examined for day 1, 3, 5, and 7. Results showed that all doses of
irradiation did not significantly (p>0.05) affected the moisture content and water activity
of samples. However, gamma irradiation significantly (p<0.05) decreased the pH value,
cooking yield, lightness, and hardness of the samples; whereas it significantly (p<0.05)
increased the cooking loss, colour (a* and b*), and breaking length. Meanwhile, cooking
yield, lightness, and hardness of samples containing PS were higher compared to samples
containing TS. Moisture content for samples containing both TS and PS was higher
compared to samples containing single starch. TPC showed that irradiation was able to
control microbial growth. Moreover, no microbial load was detected on samples irradiated
at 8 kGy until day 7. It was thus shown that increased doses in gamma irradiation could
improve microbiological quality of flat rice noodles
Antimicrobial activities of extracts from Urtica urens
Authors: Pillai M.K. , Matamane R.P. , Mekbib S.B.
Published: May 2020

The antibacterial and antifungal activities of various extracts from Urtica urens were
evaluated against selected microorganisms using agar hole-plate diffusion method. A total
of ten extracts namely U. urens hexane leaf extract (HLE), chloroform leaf extract (CLE),
ethyl acetate leaf extract (ELE), methanolic leaf extract (MLE), hexane stem-bark extract
(HSB), chloroform stem-bark extract (CSB), ethyl acetate stem-bark extract (ESB),
methanolic stem-bark extract (MSB), chloroform root extract (CRT) and methanolic root
extract (MRT) were prepared. These extracts were evaluated against two Gram-positive
bacteria viz. Listeria monocytogenes and Staphylococcus aureus, four Gram-negative
bacteria viz. Serratia marcescens, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli (wild strain)
and Escherichia coli (O157:H7) and two fungal isolates viz. Candida albicans and
Penicillium digitatum. The inhibition zones of these extracts were found to be in the range
of 9.0±0.0 to 40.5±0.7 mm against bacterial isolates and 16.0±4.2 to 17.5±4.9 mm against
C. albicans. However, all these extracts exhibited no visible zone of inhibition against P.
digitatum. Additionally, the minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) of these extracts
were also determined and were found to be in the range of <31.25 to >1000 µg/mL against
both bacterial and fungal isolates. From this study, we concluded that ELS, MLE, CRT
and MRT showed promising antimicrobial activities.
SMEs Exports are Influenced by Different Risk Factors: Empirical Study of Emerging Economy
Authors: Nosheen Safia , Khan Tahseen Mohsan , Fazal-Ur- Rehman
Published: May 2020

Study intent to identify the direct (indirect) risk factors that can influence the export of medical instruments from SMEs sector of Pakistan by using the time series monthly data sample for a period of fifteen years that is from FY 2003 to FY 2017. Empirically a strong long term relation between the export of medical instruments with operational risk, market risk, export refinance schemes and steel prices are proven by Johansen co-integration. Study also establishes a direct positive relation of operational risk and market risk with the export of medical instruments as a result of Vector Error Correction Model.
Credit Risk in Asset Based Sukuk
Authors: Areeba Khan  , Sohail Saeed  , Zubair Zulaiha A. , Iffat Hussain
Published: May 2020

Purpose: This study is intended to find the credit risks in Asset based Sukuk. The risk of default of Sukuk is called a credit risk. Various risks regarding the Sukuk have been identified.

Limitations/Implications: The study focuses on the Sukuk issuances of Pakistan. In the current scenario of Pakistan and the need to finance the Diameer Bahasha Dam and Naya Pakistan Housing Program Sukuk is an attractive option. Pakistan has yet not overcome the energy shortfall, and the environment of Pakistan has been effected by the global changes so for the adoption of cleantech green Sukuk is a most appropriate option.

Originality/ Value: There has been a significant contribution of Pakistan in the issuance of Sukuk activity and there are Sukuk defaults too. Yet, in Pakistan the research on Sukuk has not been done. So this study shall add to the literature in Pakistan.
Improving Organizational Performance Through HRM-line Partnership: A Case of Higher Education Sector of Pakistan
Authors: Muhammad Waseem  , Hazrat Bilal  , Naveed Farooq  , Wahid Raza
Published: May 2020

In todays’ knowledge economy, the organizations focus on creating value through their most valuable resources i.e. human resource. For an effective management of human capital, a healthy partnership between HRM function and the line managers (heads of other departments/sections) is essential. Such type of partnership can augment the strategic success at different levels of organization. The main focus of this study is to evaluate how the partnership of line managers and HR managers in managing different HRM activities help a firm to achieve competitive advantage. The data was collected through the departments/section heads of public sector universities of Pakistan. The results indicate that when line managers actively participate in managing the HRM function of an organization, it yielded improved organizational outcomes. Therefore, the results of this study have an important implication for the managers of higher education institutes to devise mechanism to involve the line managers in managing HRM activities and thereby achieve higher performance outcomes in higher education sector of Pakistan.
Exploring Difference in Gender Perceptions Towards Teacher's Motivational Behaviour in English Language Classroom
Authors: Zulfiqar Ali  , Farzana Masroor  , Tariq Khan
Published: May 2020

The role of a teacher is crucial for language learning specifically in English language classrooms. An important variable in this regard is the gender of students. This study investigates the impact of gender on language learning motivations of students studying at the undergraduate level in the City University of Science and IT and Institute of Management Sciences, Peshawar. Questionnaire data were collected from 175 students. The variables of the study include gender and its relationship with language attitudes and motivation. The results revealed that there exists the relationship between gender differences in variables under consideration. Female students had more expectations as compared to their male fellows. The study has useful pedagogical implications.