bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Protective Effect of α-Mangostin on High Glucose Induced Endothelial Cell Apoptosis
Authors: JITTIPORN Kanjana , MOONGKARNDI Primchanien , SAMER Jutima , SUVITAYAVAT Wisuda
Published: November 2020

α-mangostin is a phenolic compound from pericarp of mangosteen. It has prominent anti-oxidant properties. Oxidative stress has been shown to be a major factor that disrupts cell functions including endothelium. High glucose (HG) induced ROS production plays a key role in endothelial cell apoptosis. However, the effect of α-mangostin on HG induced apoptosis has not been studied yet. This study demonstrates the effect of α-mangostin in HG induced human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) apoptosis. The non-toxic dose of α-mangostin was determined using a MTT assay. Intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) and cell apoptosis were evaluated using DCF-DA and TUNEL assays, respectively. The signaling of α-mangostin was elucidated by western blotting. α-mangostin significantly and, dose-dependently, decreased HG induced ROS formation. Also, α-mangostin significantly attenuated HG induced endothelial cell apoptosis. In addition, α-mangostin suppressed HG induced apoptosis via JNK and p38-MAPK. According to our results, α-mangostin attenuated HG induced endothelial cell apoptosis through inhibition of phosphorylation of JNK and p38-MAPK.
Effect of Low Temperatures and Residence Times of Pretreatment on Glucan Reactivity of Sodium Hydroxide-Pretreated Rice Straw
Authors: SOPHONPUTTANAPHOCA Supaporn , SIRIGATMANEERAT Kontawan , KRUAKRUT Kulphaphorn
Published: November 2020

Alkaline pretreatment of lignocellulosic biomass is an approach to enhance the susceptibility of the biomass that is subsequently converted into fermentable sugars. The efficacy of the sodium hydroxide pretreatment of rice straw RD41 was evaluated in terms of total solid removal, lignin removal, glucan recovery, and glucan conversion yields. The pretreatment conditions were 50, 60, 70, 80, and 100 °C, and each temperature kept for 1 to 5 h. The effect of pretreatment temperatures was more pronounced than that of the pretreatment times. The elevated temperatures caused higher total solid removal and lignin removal. The highest total solid removal (52.5 to 55.8 %) was found in the pretreatment at 100 °C. At this temperature, the highest lignin removal (~87 %) could be obtained regardless of the residence times of the pretreatment. Most of the glucan (~80 to 100 %) was preserved in the pretreated rice straw. Lower temperatures (50 and 60 °C) favored higher glucan preservation (> 90 %) in the pretreated solids. Glucan conversion of the 3 h pretreatment time samples of each pretreatment temperature revealed that more than 80 % of glucan conversion could be accounted for in samples pretreated at 70 to 100 °C within 24 h of saccharification. The lower temperatures required a prolonged pretreatment time to reach a higher glucan conversion (~90 %), as found in the 50 °C, 5 h pretreated rice straw. The optimal conditions of this simple method are economically feasible, and can be applied to testing the reactivity of herbaceous lignocellulose in future research.
Modelling and Electrical Characteristics of the Thailand Plasma Focus-II (TPF-II)
Authors: TAMMAN Arlee , NISOA Mudtorlep , PAOSAWATYANYONG Boonchoat , BOONYAWAN Dheerawan , POOLYARAT Nopporn , ONJUN Thawatchai
Published: November 2020

The Thailand Plasma Focus II (TPF-II) is a 3.3 kJ dense plasma focus that was developed at Walailak University, Thailand. The aim of the device is to study the production of ion beams in the keV energy range and their applications for the color modification of gemstones. A high-energy ion beam is produced by heating and acceleration in the pinch phase of the plasma focus. The heating process is determined by the maximum electrical current, which can be optimized by variation of the system’s inductance. Lee model code was implemented to optimize the configuration of the electrodes. The current waveforms for the different initial conditions were used to obtain the system’s inductance, which was verified by a short circuit test. It was found that the inductance and resistance were about 153 nH and 12 mΩ, respectively.
Starch Based Nanocomposites in Active Packaging for Extended Shelf Life of Fresh Fruits
Authors: TUNMA Somruthai
Published: November 2020

Starch based packaging materials are made from cassava starch with increased antimicrobial activity of titanium dioxide (TiO2) and zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles. The objectives of this work were to evaluate the quantities of cassava starch, vinegar, glycerin, and water used for 10×10 cm2 sheet film molding, and to investigate the antimicrobial activity of starch-nanoparticles based films. TiO2 and ZnO nanoparticles were added into an aqueous starch solution at 0.01, 0.03, and 0.05 %w/w. The antimicrobial activity testing indicated that no inhibition zone against microorganisms was observable for film without the incorporation of nanoparticles. Inhibition areas were yielded by films coated with all concentrations of TiO2 and ZnO (10 mm for 1×1 cm2 and 20 mm for 2×2 cm2 dimensions of films). The results showed that starch films mixed with 0.01 %w/w of TiO2 were able to extend the shelf life of bananas from 5 - 7 days to 14 days, and tomatoes from 7 - 10 days to 21 days. The biodegradation test of starch film was carried out under the real condition of landfills. The result showed that all starch based films appeared to decompose in the soil within 14 days. The UV-vis spectrum of soil from landfill area containing nanoparticle-starch composites showed no TiO2 or ZnO absorbance spectra; there was no nanoparticle residue in soil. Starch based nanocomposite films could be used for active packaging applications for post-harvest produce.
Impact of Different Pond Bottom Soil Substrates on Blue Swimming Crab (Portunus pelagicus) Culture
Authors: ONIAM Vutthichai , TAPARHUDEE Wara , YOONPUNDH Ruangvit
Published: November 2020

Pond bottom soil quality is an important factor in aquaculture, but studies on the soil quality in crab ponds are very limited. The objectives of this experiment were to investigate the impact of pond bottom soils on blue swimming crab, Portunus pelagicus. Experimental crabs were reared under simulated earthen pond conditions in 0.5×2.5×0.4 m3 fiberglass tanks with different soil substrates. The 4 treatments used were crabs reared with sandy loam (T1), sand (T2) and clay (T3) as substrates (10 cm thick) and without soil substrate (T4). Crabs were fed with shrimp feed at 5 % of body weight per day (twice a day at 0900 h and 1500 h), for 90 days. Each treatment was done in triplicate. The results showed that the average daily growth of crabs reared with the sandy loam or sand as substrates, and without soil substrate were not significantly different (p > 0.05) but these were significantly higher (p < 0.05) than that of using clay as a substrate. The survival rates of crabs reared with different soil substrates were not significantly different (p > 0.05). The feed conversion ratio of crabs reared with clay or sandy loam as substrates were also not significantly different (p > 0.05), but those reared with clay soil were significantly higher (p < 0.05) than that of using sand as a substrate or without soil substrate. In addition, the levels of organic matter, pH and ammonia in the soil of crabs reared with the clay as substrate were higher than those with sandy loam or sand as substrates. This study demonstrated that soil substrate and changing properties due to levels of organic matter, pH and ammonia in the soil affected the growth rate and feed conversion ratio of P. pelagicus crabs.
Total Flavonoids, Total Phenolic Content and Antioxidant Activity from Fruits, Leaves, Twigs and Flowers of Mesua ferrea L.
Authors: CHAITHADA Prakit , SUPAPAN Juthamas , SUPAPAN Juthamas , RODTHUK Phetcharat , RODTHUK Phetcharat , CHAINARONG Saowalak , CHAINARONG Saowalak
Published: November 2020

The objective of this study was to compare antioxidant activity from crudes of fruits, leaves, twigs and flowers of Mesua ferrea L. with hexane, dichloromethane and methanol by controlling time and temperature in the solvent extraction. All crude extracts were investigated for their antioxidant capacity in 1,1-diphenenyl-2-picryhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging. The results indicated that the high polar solvent exhibited the highest DPPH radical scavenging activity. The methanol extracts of leaves show the highest activity with IC50 of 89.94±0.65 μg/mL. The flowers, twigs and fruits methanol crude extracts show IC50 of 94.26±5.93, 94.45±1.67 and 722.94±5.85 μg/mL, respectively. The methanol extracts of leaves also had the highest total flavonoids content (325.79±3.08mgQE/g). The methanol extract of flowers and the dichloromethane extract of fruits presented higher total phenolic contents than the other extracts which contained 769.11±46.64 mgGAE/g and 703.62±12.62 mgGAE/g, respectively, followed by the methanol extract of leaves (348.36±38.53 mgGAE/g).
Effect of Artificial Respiratory Muscle Training in Patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
Authors: PINKAEW Decha , LEELARUNGRAYUB Jirakrit , WONGLANGKA Khanittha , KLAPHAJONE Jakkrit
Published: November 2020

Chronic obstructive lung disease (COPD) is a chronic lung pathology that leads to respiratory muscle weakness and decreased function capacity. Patients need to have pulmonary rehabilitation to increase respiratory muscle strength. The aim of the study was to assess the effect of artificial respiratory muscle training (ARMT) on respiratory muscle function and exercise performance in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Thirty patients in the mild to moderate COPD stage were randomly classified into an ARMT (n = 10), a control group (n = 10), and a standard respiratory muscle training group (SRMT; n = 10) by following the blind procedure. The control group received no training. The training groups, however, were trained at home for 30 min per day, every day, for 6 weeks. The measurement analyses included spirometry, an inspiratory muscle strength examination, and an exercise performance test. Exercise performance was evaluated by a 6 min walk test (SWT). The results showed that the maximal inspiratory pressure (PImax) and the maximal expiratory pressure (PEmax) were observed to have significantly increased in both the ARMT group and the SRMT group compared with the control group (p < 0.05). Moreover, the ARMT group was found to have significantly increased the 6 min walking distance in comparison with the control group. However, the ARMT group and the SRMT group did not differ significantly in those parameters. We conclude that it would be possible for the ARMT group among COPD patients to have improved respiratory muscle strength and increased capacity to walk.
Nutritional Composition, Antioxidant Activity and Phytochemical Composition of Tupistra albiflora K. Larsen’s Flowers
Authors: CHAICHANA Natthiya
Published: November 2020

The purpose of this study was to investigate the nutrient composition, antioxidant activity, and chemical constituent of Tupistra albiflora K. Larsen’s flowers. The methods used were AOAC, DPPH, and GC-MS, respectively. The results revealed that T. albiflora K. Larsen’s flowers have nutritional value (protein, carbohydrate, fat, ash, fiber, energy, thiamin, riboflavin, and pyridoxine) and antioxidant properties. There was also a high ratio of protein content (26.00 - 29.60 %) and riboflavin (0.1 - 2.0 mg/100g dry weight). Phytochemical composition analysis presented high content of essential oils (cis,cis-linoleic acid, hexadecanoic acid and hexadeconic acid ethyl ester); it may be a potential source for the food and pharmaceutical industries.
Phytochemical Constituents and Cholinesterase Inhibitory Activities of Millingtonia hortensis
Authors: KHOBJAI Warachate , SUTHIVATTANAKUL Orapit , PANUWATTANAWONG Somsiri
Published: November 2020

Acetylcholine (ACh) is an important neurotransmitter in the human brain and nervous system. Acetylcholinesterase inhibitors (AChEIs) are commonly used to improve cognitive function and exist in many plants, including Millingtonia hortensis. M. hortensis, a Thai medicinal plant, has been used as a smoke delivered bronchodilator. The aims of this study were to identify phytochemical constituents and evaluate the cholinesterase inhibitory activity of M. hortensis leaves and flower extracts. The phytochemical identifications were performed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. The inhibitory activities of acetylcholinesterase (AChE), and butyrylcholinesterase (BChE) were measured through kinetic enzyme analysis by Ellman’s method. The results showed that all the extracts exhibited specific AChEIs less than 30 % inhibition. While only the chloroform leaf extract inhibited BChE below 30 % inhibitory activities at 5.0 mg/mL. The GC-MS fingerprints revealed 15 main phytochemical constituents in the crude extracts. Additionally, all plant extracts showed antioxidant activity. The leaf extracts were non-poisonous when AChE activity is decreased by 20 - 30 % compared to normal AChE activity.
Climate Situation in 5 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Thailand Investigated by Using Big Data RSS Feed and Programming
Authors: YAIPRASERT Chairote
Published: November 2020

The concern about rising global temperatures is powerful in its effect on the tourism economy sector in the top 5 tourist attractions in Thailand. This study aimed to find techniques for using automatic big data RSS feed that is accessible online in mobile push notification and is freely available on the Internet. The programming technique method was applied for data acquisition, statistical process, and mathematical analysis. The outcomes pointed to a lack of study temperature changes on the local scale that provides insufficient information for decision making about tourism management in the local region. The results in this local level study tended to express decreasing temperature. This is not usually consistent with the IPCC scientific consensus summarization. This result could be involved with geography location and monsoon condition control. The temperatures did not have a significant effect on increase in the number of storms in the West Pacific Ocean. Sea surface temperature results were in agreement with global scale studies.
Red Eye in Primary Care – Understanding the Potentially Sight-Threatening Causes
Authors: Mushtaq Yusuf , Mushtaq Maryam
Published: November 2020

This article aims to help the reader understand the serious and potentially sight-threating causes of red eye. With an increased demand on hospital eye services, more patients with eye symptoms are being seen in primary care settings. Therefore, it is extremely important for primary care physicians to know when to refer urgently for specialist assessment.
Password Substantiation with Negative Password Encryption
Authors: Latha Dr. D. Hema , Mubeen Azmath , Reddy Dr. D. Rama Krishna
Published: November 2020

Secure secret password storage is an essential perspective in frameworks dependent on secret phrase Substantiation method, which is as yet the most broadly utilized Substantiation confirmation procedure, in spite of its some security imperfections. In this paper, a secret key Substantiation architecture structure is implemented that is intended for secure secret password storage and could be effectively incorporated into existing authentication frameworks. In this framework first the plain password which is received from the customer is given to cryptographic hash component for SHA-256 cryptographic process. After this, the hashed secret password is changed over into a negative secret password phrase. At last, the negative password is encoded/encrypted into an Encrypted Negative Password (ENP) utilizing a symmetric-key computation using for example, AES, and additionally to improve security, multi-repeated encryption could be utilized. The cryptographic hash function and symmetric encryption make it hard to break passwords from ENPs. Also, it provides lots of comparing ENPs for a given plain password, which makes pre-calculation intrusions (e.g., and rainbow table intrusion and query table attacks) infeasible. The complex calculations and comparisons of the algorithm provide good resistance towards intrusions and also provide stronger password protection. The proposed and implemented mechanism for Password Substantiation with Negative Password Encryption is a good secured password protection mechanism that merges cryptographic hash function, the negative password and the symmetric-key algorithm, without the requirement for extra data from the plain password.
Tele-fellowships for addiction medicine
Authors: Gupta, MD Deepak
Published: December 2020

The COVID-19 pandemic has been an eye-opener to the world. Global shutdown for infection control has moved workers to virtual workplaces for working remotely. Considering the infectious globalized world, the humbling experience of the COVID-19 pandemic may not wear off even after the pandemic is scientifically and officially over because the COVID-19 pandemic may have impressed and permanently imprinted upon the humanity that (a) human-to-human in-person interactions may be potentially contagious, always and (b) feasibility of virtual interfaces among humans may make human-to-human interactions safer, always. Therefore, without being skeptical about the new normal due to global reshaping of humanity, it may be time for Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) to consider tele-fellowships because freshly graduating residents or already practicing physicians may be better off not putting off their fulltime tele-medicine practicing jobs for getting mandatorily institutionalized education before being rewarded/awarded with degrees/certifications especially if the warranted clinical skills to practice new normal medical sub-specialties may be safely honed remotely.
Pengaruh Orang, Proses, Kualitas Layanan dan Nilai Pelanggan Terhadap Kepuasan Pelanggan Pada PT Prudential Life Assurance Pontianak
Authors: Fadli Mochammad Faisal
Published: December 2020

This type of research is Causal explanatory is a type of research that aims to determine the pattern of the relationship between variables as hypothesis testing. The data analysis technique used is the technique of data analysis path analysis (Path Analysis). Based on the data processing using path analysis, it is evident that the people, processes and service quality effect on customer value and people, process, service quality and customer value is also positive and significant impact on customer satisfaction at Prudential Life Assurance Pontianak with customer value as an intervening variable.
Emerging Discourses, Changing Perspectives: Iraq in Oscar Documentary Films
Authors: Ashraf Abida
Published: December 2020

Documentary film has become an important tool to seek information. This study shows how documentaries are projecting skepticism and sarcasm of Iraqi people due to volatile, uncertain complex, and ambiguous (VUCA) conditions. The fims discussed in this study consists of Oscar-winning and Oscar-nominated documentary films from 2003 to 2011 with a total of 45 films. The year 2003 is selected for its demarcation of U.S.-led invasion of Iraq which started in March 2003 and toppled over the government of Saddam Hussein. The year 2011 denotes the end with the departure of US troops in 2011. Through the criterion sampling, four films are selected that depict Iraq and all the four got the nomination for Oscar that includes: Iraq in Fragments (2006-Nomination); My Country My Country (2006-N); No End in Sight (2007-N); Operation Homecoming: Writing the Wartime Experience (2007-N). To explore Iraqi people’s perspectives, further sampling is applied and two documentaries are selected depicting entanglement of religion and politics in Iraq from Iraqi people’s perspective.
Voluntary Wheel Running Improves Spatial Learning Memory by Suppressing Inflammation and Apoptosis via Inactivation of Nuclear Factor Kappa B in Brain Inflammation Rats
Authors: Ko Young Jun , Ko Il-Gyu
Published: November 2020

Purpose: Exercise has been shown to protect against diverse brain diseases. Voluntary exercise improves cognition and has a neuroprotective effect. The aim of this investigation is to study the effect of voluntary wheel running on brain inflammation in rats with regard to inflammation and apoptosis.Methods: Brain inflammation was caused by intracranial injection of lipopolysaccharide using a stereotaxic instrument. Voluntary wheel running group were conducted during 21 consecutive days, staring 2 days after brain inflammation.Results: Brain inflammation increased proinflammatory cytokine production and apoptosis cell death in the hippocampus. There changes in the hippocampus deteriorated spatial learning memory. However, voluntary wheel running suppressed the secretion of inflammatory cytokines and apoptotic neuronal cell death via inactivation of nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB)/NF-κB inhibitor-α pathway. Voluntary wheel running also promoted the recovery of the spatial learning memory impairment.Conclusions: Voluntary wheel running after brain inflammation enhanced spatial learning memory by suppressing proinflammatory cytokine secretion and apoptosis cell death. Voluntary wheel running is also expected to be effective in inflammatory diseases of the urogenital system.
Genetic Inhibition of sFRP3 Prevents Glial Reactivity in a Mouse Model of Accelerated Aging
Authors: Corujo-Ramirez Ana Mia , Dua Malvika , Yoo Ki Hyun , Oliveros Alfredo , Jang Mi-Hyeon
Published: November 2020

Purpose: Aging is the most significant risk factor for neurodegenerative disorders that are typified by cognitive deficits. Our recent work utilizing BubR1 hypomorphic (BubR1H/H) mice, an accelerated aging model, has revealed that genetic inhibition of the endogenous Wnt pathway inhibitor secreted frizzled related protein 3 (sFRP3) plays a neuroprotective role. Neuroinflammation has been suggested as a pathological hallmark of age-related neurodegeneration mediating cognitive impairment. However, whether sFRP3 inhibition has a neuroprotective effect on neuroinflammatory gliosis in BubR1H/H mice is unknown.Methods: To investigate neuroprotection from aging-related neuroinflammation by sFRP3 in vivo, we generated double Bub R1H/H;sfrp3 knockout mice and performed immunohistological analysis with cell type-specific markers for astrocytes (glial fibrillary acidic protein), and microglia (ionized calcium-binding adapter molecule 1). Given that the hippocampus is a brain structure critical for learning and memory, and is uniquely affected in aging-related neurodegeneration, we evaluated morphological changes on astrocytes and microglia via confocal imaging.Results: We demonstrate that BubR1H/H mice exhibit significantly increased levels of astrogliosis and an increased trend of microglial activation in the hilus and molecular layer of the young adult hippocampus, thus suggesting that BubR1 insufficiency accelerates glial reactivity. Importantly, our results further show that genetic inhibition of sFRP3 significantly recovers the astrogliosis and microglial activation observed in BubR1H/H mice, suggesting a critical neuroprotective role for sFRP3 in age-related neuroinflammation.Conclusions: Our findings suggest that sFRP3 inhibition may represent a novel therapeutic strategy for neurodegeneration.
Climate Variability and the Emergence of Malaria: Case of Kumbo Central Sub-Division, North West Region, Cameroon
Authors: Mohamed Yufenyuy , François Nguetsop Victor
Published: November 2020

Climate variability and change is a major driver of infectious diseases around the world. This study sought to investigate the role of climate variability on the emergence of malaria in the North West region of Cameroon. Both biophysical and socio-economic data were collected for this study. Biophysical data, mainly secondary, was collected from meteorological stations (rainfall and temperature data) and hospitals (malaria morbidity and mortality statistics) in the study area. Socio-economic data were collected from primary sources, mainly, survey of households and hospitals, using semi-structured questionnaires. A total of 164 questionnaires were distributed amongst medical personnel and the general public (aged 18-70 years). Data obtained were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Findings revealed that patterns of fluctuation in climate parameters did not have a perfect match with rates of prevalence of malaria. However, some relatively significant correlation was found to exist between certain aspects of climate and rates of prevalence of malaria. It was noted that other drivers are involved in influencing rates of prevalence of malaria besides climate variability and change. Amongst the impacts of malaria prevalence on the population were high rates of morbidity and mortality. The population employed treated mosquito bed nets as the main coping strategy for fighting against malaria. The study recommends that the health sector should incorporate the phenomena of climate variability and change into its policy framework, and more research should be conducted to assess other drivers of malaria prevalence in north western Cameroon.
Geografia-Sul, uma proposta desde o Pensamento Ambiental latino-americano
Authors: Silva Elisabete De Fátima Farias , Bernal Diana Alexandra
Published: December 2020

Emergente da terra e rompendo com os núcleos de sentido sujeito-objeto por sustentar a ciência moderna e a visão fragmentada e hierarquizada de um mundo universalizado, a produção ambiental-estética-filosófica da colombiana Ana Patricia Noguera de Echeverri nos incita a trilhar outros caminhos e a desdobrar uma geografia-Sul que brote e floresça do ethos Abya Yala. Aterrada pelo Pensamento Ambiental latino-americano, Noguera transborda uma geografia-Sul que emerge de nossa situação e circunstância. Um Sul não apenas em diferença a uma cultura do Norte, mas, sobretudo, um Sul que inverte, inventa, r-existe, transforma, habita nas fissuras, nos silêncios, às margens de um discurso único, universalizante e moderno.
Review of code developments for earthquake resistant design of concrete structures in New Zealand
Authors: Park R.
Published: November 2020

The development of codes for the earthquake resistant design of concrete structures in New Zealand since the 1931 Hawke's Bay-earthquake is traced. The background to the developments in the design procedures through the years is discussed. Californian seismic design codes, lessons from past earthquakes, and the results of analytical and experimental research work, much of it conducted in New Zealand, have led to the current philosophy for seismic design in New Zealand as expressed by the 1976 SANZ loadings cods and the SANZ concrete design code about to be published. These codes state requirements for both adequate strength and ductility, and emphasize the importance of structural detailing to achieve satisfactory performance of structures during severe earthquake loading. This New Zealand seismic design philosophy for concrete building and bridge structures is reviewed. A summary of the seismic design provisions of the new SANZ concrete design code (NZS 3101) is given in an Appendix.
El trabajo etnolingüístico de Konrad Theodor Preuss en México y Colombia a inicios del siglo XX
Authors: Valdovinos Margarita
Published: December 2020

At the beginnings of the 20th century, the German anthropologist Konrad Theodor Preuss (1869-1938) studied different literary traditions from Amerindian cultures. During his investigations in Mexico among the Cora, Huichol, and Mexicanero, he established a methodology based on the register of verbal art in the local language, its linguistic analysis, and a religious study. Years later, he used a similar method studying the Uitoto and Kágaba in Colombia. This article presents a comparative analysis of published materials in order to understand the evolution of this pioneer work considered one of the richest analysis of its kind.
Aspartyl Proteinase and Phospholipase Activities of Candida albicans Isolated From Oropharyngeal Candidiasis in Head and Neck Cancer Patients
Authors: Ilkhanizadeh-Qomi Mohsen , Nejatbakhsh Sepideh , Jahanshiri Zahra , Razzaghi-Abyaneh Mehdi
Published: November 2020

Background: Candida albicans is one of the most important members of the human normal flora that can cause opportunistic fungal infections. Hydrolytic enzymes are one of the main virulence factors in the pathogenesis of Candida species. Objectives: This study was carried out to determine proteolytic activities, and their related gene expressions in C. albicans isolates obtained from oropharyngeal candidiasis in head and neck cancer patients. Methods: Thirty-two C. albicans clinical isolates were included in this study. Secreted aspartyl protease and phospholipase activities were analyzed by appropriate agar media and precipitation zones. The expression levels of SAP1, 3 and PLB1, 2 genes were evaluated by real-time PCR. Results: All the 32 isolates exhibited proteinase activity while 28 of them showed phospholipase activity. All the strains possessed all SAPs genes; however, PLBs genes were not expressed in four isolates. Conclusions: Our findings demonstrated that the clinical strains of C. albicans had strong proteolytic activity and high expression levels of the pertaining genes.
Transplacental Transmission of SARS-CoV-2 Infection: A Case Report from Iran
Authors: Abolhasan Choobdar Farhad , Ghassemzadeh Maral , Attarian Mohammad , Abbariki Ezzat , Nateghian Alireza , Ghanbari Behrooz , Shah Hamzehi Samira , Razavi Hashemi Melika , Azarbin Zahra
Published: November 2020

: We report a case of SARS-CoV-2 vertical transmission through the placenta in a neonate whose mother had non-M3 acute myeloid leukemia (AML) that was complicated with Covid-19 in the last trimester. Viral load in nasopharyngeal swabs from mother and neonate were high. Real-time PCR of the fetal side of the placenta was positive for SARS-CoV-2, which makes it possible to consider this case as a congenital case of SARS-CoV-2 infection that is transmitted through vertical transmission.
Optimization of Aqueous and Alcoholic Extraction of Phenolic and Antioxidant Compounds From Caper (Capparis spinosa L.) Roots Assisted by Ultrasound Waves
Authors: Safarzaei Abdolvahed , Sarhadi Hamid , Haddad Khodaparast Mohamad Hosain , Shahdadi Fatemeh , Dashipour Ali Reza
Published: November 2020

Background: Herbals are rich in effective compounds such as phenolic and antioxidant. Various methods are developed to extract these compounds, including Soxhlet, maceration, microwave, and ultrasound. The extraction method affects the quantity and quality of materials. Objectives: The current study aimed to investigate the effect of ultrasound in phenolic and antioxidants compounds extraction from Caper roots. Methods: Response surface methodology (RSM) and Box-Behnken design were used to optimize the two extraction parameters, including extraction time (10, 25, and 40 min) and ultrasound power (40%, 70%, 100 %) by aqueous and alcoholic solvents. Results: Based on the results, ultrasound power was more effective than the extraction time. A direct association was observed between ultrasound power and the extraction time with the total extraction. The optimum aqueous and alcoholic extraction condition for phenolic and antioxidant compounds extraction were as follow: extraction time 36 min and ultrasound power 91 percent. Total phenolic content was obtained 14.96 mg/g with aqueous solvent and 17.24 mg/g with alcoholic solvent, and IC50 was 52.17 µg/mg with aqueous solvent and 40.20 µg/mg with alcoholic solvent. Conclusions: Overall, alcoholic extracts had more phenolic and antioxidant compounds than aqueous extracts.
The foreign policy of China
Authors: Bo Čen
Published: November 2020

This paper presents a brief outline of the foreign policy aims of the People's Republic of China. Brought into focus is the principle of multilateralism, the basic guiding principle of China, which is aware of the effects of globalization. The principle needs to be applied to the response to the COVID-19 epidemic. Stressed in the paper are the principles that China follows in its relations with the USA, the EU and Serbia, and the importance of the Belt and Road initiative and Cooperation 17+1. The paper states that the question of Kosovo and Metohija should be resolved within the framework of Resolution 1244 passed by the UN Security Council. Hongkong is an integral part of China and the questions regarding this matter are to be resolved by China. Hongkong is a territory with a large degree of autonomy and the recent legislation aims to protect the security of China and Hongkong and do not contradict the policy "One Country - Two Systems", but rather confirm it. The paper also presents new data on the economic development of China and progress made in its economic relations with the EU and the countries participating in the Cooperation 17+1 program.
The Vidovdan Temple of Ivan Meštrović
Authors: Grujić Vera
Published: November 2020

The sculptures of Ivan Meštrović (1883-1962) known as the Kosovo Cycle, Vidovdan Cycle or Vidovdan Fragments, sculpturally shaped to become part of the monumental Vidovdan Temple that was to be erected in Kosovo, along with a wood model of the building, represent the only material trace of this ambitiously conceived but unrealized project.
Demographic overview of Serbia
Authors: Marinković Ivan
Published: November 2020

Demographically, the population of Serbia is one of the oldest populations in the world and is experiencing pronounced depopulation. Decades-long low birth rates and continuous emigration of mostly young individuals are the principal factors causing demographic aging in Serbia and the current decrease in population. The age structure of the population influences unfavorably any attempts at alleviating the effects of depopulation. Hypothetically, even the highest birth rate in Europe today would not be enough to significantly delay the population decrease in the decades to come, due to the low numbers of women of reproductive age. The demographic future of Serbia is a return to the population size of six decades ago by the next census and an intensification of depopulation. Spatial analysis has shown that as much as 90% of localities have experienced a decrease in population, with localities in the south-east of Serbia being affected the most. In the following period, significant changes in population movement are not expected with the caveat that migratory movement is a key influencing factor but as yet impossible to establish.
The mosaic decoration of the Temple of Saint Sava
Authors: Buseva-Davidova Irina
Published: November 2020

The Holy Synod of the Serbian Orthodox Church and the state representatives of the Republic of Serbia, with the brotherly aid of the Government of The Russian Federation and its Department for External Church Relations of the Moscow Patriarchy are nearing the completion of the Temple of Saint Sava. The unique style and artistic concepts of Nikolay Mukhin is in complete harmony with the architecture of Hagia Sophia in Constantinople, the foremost example of Byzantine and Serbian medieval art. There are four representations in the great arch of each cupola of the Temple of Saint Sava, grouped according to meaning and history as presented in the Holy Testament, with the aim of faithfully depicting the earthly life of Christ and the Mother of God. The rich and original iconography of the mosaics and iconostases is awe-inspiring in their artistry for the over three hundred artists engaged in their execution. The conceptual knot of the interior: the dome, the space below, the pendentive and main arches, with their beautifully decorated altar space, have enriched Serbia and the world with one of the most imposing and magnificent monuments of Christianity today.
Serbian people under imperial pressure: The position in a geopolitical knot
Authors: Glišin Vanja
Published: November 2020

In this paper, the author is analyzing the geopolitical position of Serbia and Serbian lands while following the historical course of events that changed the realpolitik state of affairs in this area. In the first part of the paper, the author starts with the analysis of geographical characteristics of Serbian state, political and economic environment of Serbia as semi-periphery in relation to the center, as well as the strategic potentials of the territory, waters and aerial space of this region. Leaning on the analyzed characteristics the work further turns its attention towards the geopolitical standing of Serbia and the Serbian people while being focused on a few geopolitical aspects to disassemble the imperial pressures throughout the centuries of Serbian crucifixion as clear as possible.
European media literacy agenda
Authors: Kecman Violeta
Published: November 2020

The paper sheds light on the most important documents of the Council of Europe, the European Union and UNESCO in the field of media literacy implementation. The representation of media education in Europe was achieved by a descriptive-analytical method and an analysis of the content of national curricula, as well as reports on media literacy. The goal of this desk research is to identify common features of the most successful implementation examples. The results of the research show that the most successful European models have been implemented in the educational systems of France, Great Britain, Finland and Slovenia. The implementation of media literacy in the curriculum is a process whose success depends on the continuum of media literacy in the education system, the professional qualifications of teachers for media education and methodological approaches to teaching.
Croatian scientists and politicians falsifying the number of victims in the Jasenovac concentration camp in the ISC from 1941 to 1945
Authors: Atlagić Marko
Published: November 2020

The Jasenovac Concentration Camp, run by the Ustashas in the ISC from 1941 to 1945, was the largest human slaughterhouse in the Balkans and one of the biggest concentration camps in Europe in the Second World War. In was where the crime of genocide was committed in the most cruel fashion against 800 000 Serbs, 40 000 Jews and 60 000 Roma, as well as the murder of around 4000 Croat, 2000 Slovene and 1800 Muslim antifascists. The terrible crimes of genocide were documented by local as well as foreign historical sources and even the very participants in the events. Recently, we have been witnesses to the daily falsifying of not only the number of Jasenovac victims but also the character of the camp itself by Croatian historians and statesmen. Their aim is to redefine the fascist past of Croatia in order to avoid having to face the crime of genocide committed against Serbs not only in the so-called Independent State of Croatia [ISC] (1941-1945) but also during the so-called Homeland War (1991-1995). This presents a very clear danger for the future of so-called Independent State of Croatia (ISC). Also misrepresented is the nature of the camp itself, which is falsely defined as a labor camp or even holiday camp. Amongst others, the persons involved in this altering of facts are: Ivan Supek, Academy member, Josip Pečarić, Academy member, Prof. Stjepan Razum, Igor Vukić, Mladen Ivezić, Franjo Kuharić, the Society for the Study of the Jasenovac Triple Camp [Društvo za istraživanje trostrukog logora Jasenovac], Dr Franjo Tuđman and Stjepan Mesić. The first and greatest distortion of the number of victims and the character of the camp was performed by Dr Franjo Tuđman, who established the foundations for this in his works, and in particular in his book Wastelands of Historical reality. The aim of these falsifications is a redefining of the fascist past of the country, the misrepresentation of fascists as antifascists and antifascists as fascists. All of this represents a serious danger for the future of Croatia, which is failing to come to terms with the past and refusing to condemn the all of the crimes committed, including genocide. Croatia today, an independent and democratic country, is showing signs of Ustasha tendencies, much like those seen in Pavelić's ISC. It is necessary to face this fact and the sooner it is done, the better it will be for the people of the Republic of Croatia.
Current problems in the Arab world
Authors: Jevtić Miroljub
Published: November 2020

In this paper, we will try to present the most important problems of the Arab world today. In doing so, we will be guided by the idea of highlighting what challenges the whole world faces. The Arab world is located at the crossroads between East and West. From that point of view, what is happening among the Arabs must have an impact on the relations of all those who communicate with each other via the Arab world. It is especially important to point out that the Arabs are among the largest exporters of crude oil. And that shows how much the situation in the Arab world is something that affects the entire planet.
Anesthesiologists assignment in management of patients with COVID-19 infection: Experience from the Clinic for Infectious and Tropical Diseases Clinical Centre of Serbia: Single center experience in management of patients with COVID-19
Authors: Jovičić Jelena , Đorović Dubravka , Radeč Gorana , Tutuš Vladimir , Vujović Jelena , Lazić Igor , Ivošević Tjaša
Published: November 2020

According to the report, COVID-19 infection was confirmed in 10000 patients followed with 2% mortality rate in Serbia, compared with 7% global mortality rate reported by WHO. Team work and multidisciplinary therapy approach is crucial in COVID-19 management. According to the current organizational plan, the anesthesiology teams were assigned to the ICU of the Clinic for Infectious and Tropical Diseases for treatment of patients with moderate to severe form of SARS CoV-2 infection. The each work shift of anesthesiology team is scheduled for 4 hours with personal protective equipment (PPE) available. In addition to anesthesiologists, health-care providers in other fields of medicine also took part in management of patients with most severe forms of infection (infectologist, pulmologist, hematologist, cardiologist, gastroenterologist, nephrologist). The anesthesiologist-coordinator coordinated the work of different specialists. In the "red zone", the principle of treatment was organized according to the current recommendations: respiratory, hemodynamic and nutritional support, tromboprophylaxis. At the beginning of the epidemic, 90.5% were intubated, and later 25-30%. We applied several non-invasive respiratory support methods: NIV 11.1%, HFNC 13.3%, oxygen mask 15.6%. Doses of sedative agents need to be individually adjusted as COVID-19 patients require higher doses than usual. But, the most important is to follow instructions related to PPE use for safe work in the "red zone". Recommendations based on experience: always respect the recommended layered arrangement of PPE, do not apply additional protective equipment "for safety", it is necessary that the order of wearing PPE is always the same, it is more practical to wear a spacesuit for more than ideals.
Minimum Acceptable Diet and its Predictors among Children Aged 6-23 Months in Mareka District, Southern Ethiopia: Community Based Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Feleke Fentaw Wassie , Mulaw Getahun Fentaw
Published: November 2020

Background: Optimal infant and young child feeding practices are essential for normal growth, better health, and mental and physical development. Even though there are a lot of nutrition intervention programs in Ethiopia, still suboptimal feeding practices are prevalent. This study was devised to assess a level of minimum acceptable diet (MAD) and predictors among children aged 6-23 months in Mareka District, south Ethiopia.
Method: A community-based cross-sectional study was employed on 662 study participants from August 15 to September 15/ 2015. They were selected by a multi-stage sampling technique. Data were collected by interviewer-administered semi-structured questionnaires. Statistical significance was declared at p-value <0.05 at multivariable logistic regression.
Result: The study showed that 35.5 % of the children aged 6-23 months met the recommended MAD. Maternal primary and secondary education (AOR: 1.90; 95% CI: 1.15-3.16 and AOR: 2.06, 95% CI: 1.12-3.77), Media exposure (AOR: 2.16; 95% CI: 1.46-3.29), health facility delivery (AOR:2.52; 95% CI: 1.54-4.13), child age of 9-11 and 12-23 months (AOR:2.73; 95% CI: 1.41-5.49 and AOR:2.55; 95% CI: 1.39-4.69) and GMP service utilization (AOR: 4.09; 95% CI: 2.51-6.65) were associated with MAD of children.
Conclusion: The level of MAD among children was low. Maternal educational status, media exposure, institutional delivery, child age, and GMP service utilization were associated with MAD. Increasing utilization of GMP service, health facility delivery, maternal education, and media promotion was recommended to increase the level of MAD.
Strategic Orientation and Performance of Small Businesses in South Africa
Authors:   Department of Business Management, University of Limpopo, Private Bag X1314, Sovenga, 0727, South Africa, Mankgele Khutso Pitso , Fatoki Olawale
Published: November 2020

Motivation: Most studies on strategic orientation have focused on financial performance while neglecting social and environmental performance. In this era of sustainable development, the performance of SMEs is better measured using the triple bottom line approach (financial, social and environmental). Studies that examine the effect of strategic orientation on the sustainable performance of SMEs are scarce. Novelty: The aim of the study is to explore the impact of strategic orientation on the sustainable performance of SMEs. While extant studies have explored the effect of strategic orientation on the financial performance of SMEs, this study used the sustainable measure of performance that included financial, social and environmental indicators. Methodology and Methods: The study followed the quantitative research design and a self-administered questionnaire was employed during the data collection process. Data was collected from one hundred and forty SME owners in a cross-sectional survey. The participants of this study were in the retail, service and manufacturing sectors. Data and Empirical Analysis: The Pearson correlation and regression were used for analysis. The Pearson correlation results indicated a positive correlation between strategic orientation and sustainable performance, while the regression analysis showed that strategic orientation has a positive impact on the sustainable performance of SMEs. Policy Considerations: South Africa is a signatory to the Paris Agreement on Climate Change and the United Nations’ Sustainable Development goals. The sustainable performance of SMEs can help to achieve these goals. The findings of this study can help small business owners to continuously acquire strategic orientation education for themselves and their employees. Agencies that support small businesses should organise seminars to train and educate SME owners on strategic orientation and sustainable performance.