bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Remote Sensing for Assessing the Ecological and Socio-Economic Impacts of Forest Fire Severity in Kozan District, Turkey
Authors: Ibrahim Sa'ad , KOSE Mustafa , Adamu Bashir , Jega Idris Mohammed
Published: September 2022

Monitoring the ecological and socio-economic impacts of wildfires using traditional approaches requires significant financial resources, time, and sampling expertise. However, not only are resources scarce, but the spatial and temporal extent of forest fires may make it impractical to assess large areas over time. As a result, fire monitoring initiatives are often not realized. This makes the remote sensing approach an intriguing option for fire protection managers and decision makers due to its ability to measure large areas and its temporal capabilities. In this study, burn spectral indices derived from Landsat 8 (difference normalized vegetation index (dNDVI) and difference normalized burn ratio (dNBR)) were used to assess the ecological and socio-economic impacts of forest fire based on an existing land use land cover dataset. The relationships between estimated fire severity/area and, environmental and anthropogenic factors were also evaluated. The results show that more than 700 hectares of forest and other land use categories were burnt. Fires adversely affect high forests, thickets, degraded forests, and most cultivation and rural areas. The study also shows a moderate positive relationship between burn severity and pre-fire vegetation (R2 = 0.48 and R2 = 0.49 for dNDVI and dNBR, respectively). This result suggests, that fuel amount is the main driver of burn severity during the fire season in this particular ecosystem. Topography has been shown to affect the fire behavior in the study area, where fires occurred primarily on elevations averaging 400-800 meters above mean sea level. In addition, there is a weak positive relationship between population density and burnt area. This is typical of certain areas where fire increases with increasing population density, and falls when the burning exceeds a threshold. This study has shown that Landsat 8 data-derived burn spectral indices (dNDVI and dNBR) have a high potential for the spatial analysis of wildfire. The study recommends an improvement in the application of remote sensing to detect, monitor, and assess fire extent and patterns. These in return will protect and improve lives and properties for sustainable development.
Ascertaining the Prevalence of Heart Malformations in Neonates: A Novel Clinically Approved Solution
Authors: Bordbar Arash , Kashaki Mandana , Vafapour Maryam , Sepehri Amir A. , Partovi Elaheh
Published: September 2022

Background: Screening for critical congenital heart defects should be done as early as possible and is essential to save lives and reduce the incidence of undetected adult congenital heart diseases. Over 50% of neonates with heart malformations remain unrecognized at birth. Accurate screening for congenital heart malformations is achievable using a certified and internationally patented digital intelligent phonocardiography machine. This study aimed to assess the actual incidence of newborn heart defects in a well-baby nursery and evaluate digital intelligent phonocardiogram screening for critical congenital heart defects.
Methods: We conducted the “Neonates Cardiac Monitoring Research Project” (ethics approval number: IR-IUMS-FMD. REC.1398.098) at the Shahid Akbarabadi Maternity Hospital. This study is a retrospective analysis of screening congenital heart malformation in 840 neonates. Randomly, 840 neonates from the well-baby nursery underwent standard clinical examinations at birth and digital intelligent phonocardiogram examination in a double-blinded format. A pediatric cardiologist performed echocardiography for each neonate classified as abnormal using the intelligent machine or routine medical examinations. If a follow up was demanded by the pediatric cardiologist, the neonate was considered as having a congenital heart malformation and the cumulative incidence proportion was calculated accordingly.
Results: The incidence of heart malformations in the well-baby nursery was 5%, and 44% of neonates with heart malformations were unrecognized at birth based on the standard medical examination results, including those with critical congenital heart defects (CCHD). An intelligent phonocardiogram recognized 100% of neonates with heart malformations.
Conclusion: We accurately and cost-effectively screened for congenital heart malformations in all neonates in our hospital using a digital intelligent phonocardiogram. We detected neonates with CCHD and congenital heart defects using an intelligent machine; these could not be detected using standard medical examinations. In addition, the intelligent machine interpreted innocent murmurs as healthy heart sounds.
The Effects of Yarn Count and Hemp Fiber Blending Ratios on Yarn and Fabric Properties
Authors: KERTMEN Nuriye , YILDIRIM Nida
Published: September 2022

Bu çalışmada Ne 20/1 ve Ne 30/1 iplik numaralarında % 100 pamuk, % 95-5 pamuk/kenevir ve % 85-15 pamuk/kenevir oranlarına sahip 6 farklı karde iplik üretilmiş ve ipliklerin kalın-ince yer, neps, düzgünsüzlük, tüylülük, kopma mukavemeti ve uzaması özellikleri incelenmiştir. Daha sonra kontrollü olarak üretilen bu iplikler kullanılarak aynı makinede örme (süprem) kumaş üretimleri gerçekleştirilmiştir. İplik numarasının ve kenevir oranının örme kumaşların patlama mukavemeti, boncuklanma dayanımı ve dökümlülük özelliklerinin yanı sıra ısıl direnç ve su buharı geçirgenliği özelliklerine etkileri incelenmiştir. Elde edilen sonuçlara göre tüm iplikler için iplik inceliği arttıkça hata değerleri ve düzgünsüzlük artmış; tüylülük ve kopma mukavemeti azalmıştır. Kenevir oranı arttıkça hata değerleri, düzgünsüzlük ve tüylülük artmış; kopma mukavemeti ve uzaması azalmıştır. Örme kumaşların ortalama dökümlülük katsayısı değerleri incelendiğinde, iplik kalınlaştıkça kumaş dökümlülüğü azalmıştır. Diğer yandan kumaştaki kenevir oranı arttıkça kumaş dökümlülüğü artmıştır ve kenevir lifleri, örme kumaşların dökümlülüğüne olumlu yönde etki etmiştir. Örme kumaşların patlama mukavemetleri ipliklerin kopma mukavemeti değerlerinden etkilenmiş olup, kenevir içeriği arttıkça patlama mukavemeti azalmıştır. % 100 pamuklu kumaşların boncuklanma derecesi en düşük bulunmuştur. İplikler inceldikçe su buharı geçirgenliği değerleri artmıştır. Ayrıca kumaşlardaki kenevir oranı arttıkça su buharı geçirgenliği değerinin azaldığı, ısıl direnç değerlerinin kısmen arttığı görülmüştür.
Hibrit bir Derin Öğrenme Yöntemi Kullanarak Türkçe Cümlelerdeki Anlatım Bozukluklarının Tespiti
Authors: SUNCAK Atilla , AKTAŞ Özlem
Published: September 2022

Anlatım bozukluğu, Türkçe cümlelerde hem anlamsal hem de biçimsel belirsizlikleri ifade eden bir dilbilgisi terimidir. Daha önceki çalışmalarda, kural tabanlı dile özgü modeller oluşturularak Doğal Dil İşleme (DDİ) teknikleri kullanılmıştır. Bununla birlikte, daha az talepkar açıklama gereksinimlerine ve harici bilgiyi birleştirme kolaylığına rağmen, kural tabanlı sistemler, işleme verimliliği açısından bazı büyük engellere sahiptir. Uzun Kısa-Süreli Bellek (UKSB (ing: LSTM)) veya Evrişimsel Sinir Ağları (ESA (ing: CNN)) gibi derin öğrenme teknikleri son yıllarda büyük ilerlemeler kaydetmiş, bu da DDİ uygulamalarında performans açısından benzeri görülmemiş bir artışa yol açmıştır. Bu çalışmada, anlatım bozukluklarını tespit etmek için UKSB ve ESA'nın hibrit modeli olan bir derin öğrenme yaklaşımı (E-UKSB (ing: C-LSTM)) ve buna ek olarak sonuçları doğruluk açısından karşılaştırmak için Destek Vektör Makinesi (DVM (ing: SVM)) ve Rastgele Orman (RO (ing: RF)) gibi geleneksel makine öğrenmesi sınıflandırıcıları önerilmiştir. Önerilen hibrit model, geleneksel DVM ve rastgele orman sınıflandırıcılarına ek olarak, ESA ve UKSB’nin mevcut modellerinden daha yüksek başarım elde etmiştir. Bu durum, metin sınıflandırma için geleneksel sınıflandırıcılara kıyasla derin sinirsel yaklaşımların daha çok ön plana çıktığını göstermektedir.
Pik Turbo Orta Göbeğinin Alüminyum Alaşımından Üretilmesi
Authors: UYULGAN Bahadır
Published: September 2022

The goal of this research is to make an aluminum alloy center housing for a turbocharger, which is currently built of cast iron, in order to minimize weight in the car sector. The use of aluminum alloy instead of cast iron to manufacture a turbocharger's central housing is expected to result in a 60 percent weight reduction.

It was determined in the investigation that A242 aluminum alloy might be utilized in place of cast iron. The turbo mid-hub, which is comprised of A242 aluminum alloy, was then heat treated and hardness tested. The finite element approach was used to examine the temperature distribution of the part.

As a result of the aging experiment, the solution temperature and duration were kept constant, and the most acceptable aging temperature and time for the turbocharger cental hausing were identified as 190°C, 234 minutes, as a consequence of the aging heat treatments done at different temperatures. The hottest spots of the turbocharger central hausing built from A242 alloy and cast iron, according to the temperature distribution study, are 153°C in the aluminum alloy section and 233°C in the cast iron component.
NUMERICAL DISTRIBUTION SIMULATION OF TYPHOONS’ WAVE ENERGY IN THE TAIWAN STRAIT AND ITS ADJACENT WATERS
Authors:   College of Civil Engineering, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou, China, Chen Cheng , Peng Chen , Xiao Hong , Wang Tingyu , Wei Minjian
Published: September 2022

As new energy technologies boom in recent years, marine renewable energy, especially wave power is one potential trend. However, few relevant studies focus on extreme sea conditions. In this paper, a numerical model of typhoon waves in the Taiwan Strait is established based on the third-generation ocean wave model SWAN and then calculated by the wave energy empirical equation. Typhoon No. 200808 Fung-wong, strong typhoon No. 200815 Jangmi and strong typhoon No. 201808 Maria are used for verification and analysis. Finally, the results show that most concentrated wave energy values are more than 300 kW/m for typhoon and more than 900 kW/m for strong typhoons, over 60 times and 180 times the annual average (5 kW/m) in the Chinese sea area, respectively. In terms of other locations, corresponding values are more than 50 kW/m and over 100 kW/m. Therefore, typhoons’ wave energy is certainly a huge asset if fully utilized.
Target capital structure for managerial decision making: Dynamics and determinants
Authors: Imas Iyoha Agbonrha-Oghoye , Ohiokha Godwin , Umoru David , Oshoke Akhor Sadiq , Abohiri Igele Grace
Published: September 2022

The study examines the dynamics and determinants of target capital structures among manufacturing firms listed on the Nigeria Stock Exchange during the period from 2012 to 2021. The study is motivated by the disparity in the Speed of Adjustment (SOA) to target leverage, which is influenced by firm-specific attributes largely dependent on macroeconomic indices. Therefore, understanding the determinants of SOA to target leverage is germane because no two macro-economic environments are the same. A longitudinal research design is used with a population of 75 manufacturing firms. The sample consists of 42 firms, drawn using a simple random technique. Secondary data is sourced from the annual report. Generalized Method of Moments is the estimation technique. The result shows that manufacturing firms adjust to a target capital structure with a high speed of 72%. This confirms the application of dynamic trade-off theory among listed manufacturing firms in Nigeria. Profitability, firm size, and asset tangibility are significant determinants of SOA to a target capital structure, confirming pecking order, agency, and static trade-off theories, respectively. Tax shelter and growth were not significant determinants. The study concludes that there is evidence of dynamic adjustment to the optimal capital structure of listed manufacturing firms in Nigeria. Governments and policymakers in firms should make effective policies that aid speedy access to long-term funds by these firms to increase their SOA to target capital structure.
Do bacharelado à sala de aula: formação de docentes para a educação profissional e tecnológica
Authors: Machado Souza Mário Sérgio , Ramos de Alcantara Miria Alves
Published: September 2022

O presente estudo discute a formação e a inserção de docentes na Educação Profissional e Tecnológica (EPT), a partir da constatação de que historicamente foi priorizada a formação de bacharéis. Este aspecto representa um dos desafios à expansão e consolidação da Rede Federal que requer mudanças em outros setores da arena educacional para atender às novas demandas político-pedagógicas. O artigo analisa marcos históricos decisivos para a conformação do campo, examina alguns dispositivos da legislação e da literatura educacional brasileira. Questiona-se acerca do perfil docente da EPT, constituído a partir das heranças recebidas e em confronto com necessidades do momento presente e com os novos ideais pedagógicos. Entende-se que há certo consenso em torno do distanciamento das licenciaturas em relação aos ingressantes na carreira docente na EPT e, ao final, são apresentadas nuances desse hiato, que o estudo realizado indicou ter caráter de urgência mais evidente.
Reflexões sobre a construção de conhecimentos interdisciplinares em um curso técnico em alimentos
Authors: Errobidart Nádia Cristina Guimarães , Ribeiro Marcia Helena , Leite Munhoz Claudia
Published: September 2022

O trabalho apresenta resultados da reconstrução de uma ação formativa planejada como forma de contextualização de conhecimentos disciplinares da física no contexto de um Curso de Técnico Integrado em Alimentos, no qual buscou-se inicialmente avaliar o potencial da integração de conhecimentos disciplinares por meio de aplicação prática de uma secadora artesanal. A interação entre as professoras de unidades curriculares distintas, uma do núcleo comum e outra do profissional resultou na negociação para uma ação formativa integradora, que seria materializada na forma de trabalho de conclusão de curso, explorando uma proposta para aplicação prática de conceitos físicos em métodos artesanais de secagem de alimentos. No terceiro semestre do curso os estudantes iniciavam um processo de interação de conhecimentos e no sexto buscava-se a integração deles na execução de uma prática usando a secadora artesanal de alimentos. Os resultados obtidos sinalizam que as atividades pautadas no emprego da secadora artesanal de frutas tem potencial para promover uma construção interdisciplinar de conhecimentos tal como preconiza a proposta de ensino técnico profissionalizante, mas precisa de um planejamento de como provocar uma efetiva integração de conhecimentos prévios sobre estudo do calor na secagem de alimentos.
Programa de auxílio estudantil: um estudo sobre as suas contribuições na permanência de estudantes na educação profissional técnica de nível médio no Instituto Federal de Educação, Ciência e Tecnologia do Sul de Minas
Authors: Pimenta Rodrigues Dias Elizangela , Machado Pereira de Oliveira Sueli
Published: September 2022

O artigo tem como objetivo discutir a implicação do Programa de Auxílio Estudantil (PAE) na permanência dos estudantes da Educação Profissional e Tecnológica do Instituto Federal de Educação, Ciência e Tecnologia do Sul de Minas Gerais (IFSULDEMINAS), matriculados nos cursos do Ensino Médio Integrado e em cursos técnicos subsequentes. A pesquisa caracteriza-se como qualitativa e quantitativa e utilizou-se da pesquisa bibliográfica e documental. Foram consultadas resoluções e normativas sobre Assistência Estudantil, no âmbito nacional e institucional. Realizou-se um levantamento de dados dos discentes ingressantes em 2016, beneficiados e não beneficiados pelo PAE, buscando-se estabelecer entre eles um comparativo no que se refere ao status registrado no seu cadastro acadêmico. Verificou-se que as características do PAE no âmbito do IFSULDEMINAS correspondem ao prescrito nas normas de âmbito federal e discentes beneficiados têm índices de permanência maiores. Os resultados, entretanto, mostram um significativo índice de abandono e desligamento e um alto número de estudantes ainda em curso, o que necessita de maior atenção institucional.
Jelly formulated with different carbohydrate profiles: Quality evaluation
Authors: Plotnikova Inessa , Magomedov Gazibeg , Zharkova Irina , Miroshnichenko Elena , Plotnikov Viktor
Published: September 2022

Jelly is a popular confectionery product but it has a high content of easily digestible sugars, namely 70–85%. Therefore, modern confectioners are trying to develop new formulations of jelly with reduced sweetness and sugar content. One of the ways to achieve that is to use starch syrup instead of white sugar. Another benefit of starch syrup is that it can slow down the drying and staling of jelly.

We studied three types of starch syrup (low-conversion, confectionery, high-conversion), glucose-fructose syrup, and sugar-free jelly samples based on them. Jelly based on sugar and confectionery syrup was used as the control sample. The main quality indicators were analyzed against standard values; the sensory parameters were determined by the descriptor-profile analysis; and water activity was measured by using a HygroPalm Rotronic hygrometer. The microbiological safety of the experimental jelly samples was assessed after 12 weeks of their storage in plastic containers.

The sample based on confectionery syrup had the most optimal profile, with moderate sweetness and taste richness, good jelly-like texture, viscoelasticity, plasticity, a color similar to that of the control, and no effect of wetting or stickiness. The samples based on starch syrup had a 1.4–2.4-fold decrease in easily digestible sugars and a 1.9–3.4-fold increase in polysaccharides, compared to the control. During storage, the samples based on high-conversion starch syrup and glucose-fructose syrup were less likely to dry out than the others, with their water activity decreasing to a greater extent. The microbiological analysis after storage showed the absence of pathogenic microorganisms and coliform bacteria in three out of the four jelly samples.

Using various types of starch syrup and glucose-fructose syrup instead of white sugar allows for a greater range of jelly types with different carbohydrate profiles and a longer shelf life.
Synergistic effect of Balanites aegyptiaca essential oil and storage materials on cowpea seeds
Authors: Ajayi Feyisola F. , Ogori Akama F. , Orede Vivien O. , Peter Emmanuel
Published: September 2022

The cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L.) is a legume produced and consumed all over Africa and especially in Nigeria. These beans are a major source of protein in the region. The cowpea weevil (Callosobruchus maculatus L.) is a major pest that affects cowpea seeds. Therefore, cowpea farmers need effective non-toxic pesticides to replace synthetic chemicals. The present research tested the effect of Balanites aegyptiaca L. essential oil on cowpea weevils. This research quantified weevil proliferation and cowpea seed qualities. The samples were treated with 5, 10, and 15 mL of B. aegyptiaca essential oil diluted in 1 mL of acetone and stored in five storage materials, i.e., jute bags, polythene bags, sacks, plastic containers, and glass bottles. The study featured a completely randomized design with three replications of each treatment: treatment time – 90 days, storage temperature – 30 ± 5°C, check – 0.125 g of aluminum phosphide, control – acetone. B. aegyptiaca essential oil proved to be an effective insecticide against cowpea weevils. The treatment achieved 100% mortality rate at 10 and 15 mL of B. aegyptiaca essential oil after 72 h of exposure in glass bottles, plastic containers, and jute bags. In addition, B. aegyptiaca essential oil demonstrated a potent activity against oviposition and survival of immature cowpea weevils. Cowpea seeds packaged in glass bottles, plastics containers, and jute bags showed significantly less damage than those stored in sacks and polythene bags. Glass bottles were the best storage material in terms of safety and shelf stability, followed by plastic containers and jute bags. B. aegeptica essential oil has potent insecticidal properties and can be used as pest control during grain storage.
Polythiophene/multiwalled carbon nanotubes/nitrate reductase deposited glassy carbon electrode (GCE/PTH/MWCNT/NR): a novel biosensor for the detection of nitrate in aqueous solution
Authors: Umar Mohammad Faisal , Nasar Abu , Inamuddin
Published: September 2022

In the present investigation, a novel biosensor (GCE/PTH/MWCNT/NR) based on the nanocomposite of polythiophene (PTH) and multiwalled carbon nanotube (MWCNT) immobilized by nitrate reductase (NR) was designed and made on a glassy carbon electrode (GCE). PTH and its composite with MWCNT were prepared by in situ oxidative polymerization. The structural features and surface morphologies of the composites were investigated by the standard analytical techniques, namely, Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Measurements of the electrochemical performance and electrocatalytic activity of GCE/PTH/MWCNT/NR were carried out by cyclic voltammetry at different scan rates (20–100 mV s−1) in artificially polluted water containing nitrate ions. This laboratory-developed bio-electrode attained a maximum current density of 5.12 mAcm−2 at a scan rate of 100 mVs−1 for 8.0 mM sodium nitrate solution.
Heterologous Prime-boost Vaccination Using Adenovirus and Albumin
Nanoparticles as Carriers for Human Papillomavirus 16 E7 Epitope
Authors: Ghanaat Momeneh , Kaboosi Hami , Negahdari Babak , Fattahi Esmail , Malekshahi Ziba Veisi
Published: September 2022

Background:

Nanocarriers are these days considered an attractive approach in cancer
immunotherapy owing to their ability to deliver antigens to antigen-presenting cells (APCs) for
stimulating robust immune cells against the tumor.

Objectives:

The objective of this study was to construct nanocomplexes using two nanocarriers with
negative surface charge, adenovirus (Ad) and human serum albumin nanoparticle (HSA-NP), and
coat their surface with a modified and positively-charged HPV16 E7 MHC-I specific epitope to assess
their anti-tumor effects in a TC-1 mouse model.

Methods:

After the construction of Ad and HSA-NP, their complexes with HPV16 E7 MHC-I specific
epitope were characterized by zeta potential and dynamic light scattering. Then, the cellular
immunity and CTL responses in immunized mice were assessed by measuring the levels of IL-10
and IFN-γ and the expression of CD107a, a marker of CTL response, as well as tumor inhibition.

Results:

The zeta potential and dynamic light scattering results showed that incubation of the oppositely-
charged nanocarriers and MHC-I specific epitope led to the formation of nanocomplexes in
which the surface charge of nanocarriers was changed from negative to positive with minimal
changes in the particle size. We demonstrated that the nanocomplex platforms in heterologous primeboost
regimens generate significantly higher E7-specific IL-10, IFN-γ, and CTL responses. Moreover,
the heterologous nanocomplex regimens, Alb/Pep-Ad/Pep and Ad/Pep-Alb/Pep, significantly
suppressed the growth of TC-1 tumors in vivo compared with mice receiving homologous regimens
and naked nanocarriers.

Conclusion:

The heterologous nanocomplexes might serve as an effective vaccine strategy against
HPV-induced cervical cancer.
Phylogenetic and Structural Analysis of Bacterial Nitrilases for the Biodegradation
of Nitrile Compounds
Authors: Salwan Richa , Sharma Vivek , Das Surajit
Published: September 2022

Background:

Microbial nitrilases play a vital role in the biodegradation of nitrilecontaining
pollutants, effluent treatments in chemical and textile industries, and the biosynthesis of
Indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) from tryptophan in plants. However, the lack of structural information limits
the correlation between its activity and substrate specificity.

Methods:

The present study involves the genome mining of bacteria for the distribution and diversity
of nitrilases, their phylogenetic analysis and structural characterization for motifs/ domains, followed
by interaction with substrates.

Results:

Here, we mined the bacterial genomes for nitrilases and correlated their functions to hypothetical,
uncharacterized, or putative ones. The comparative genomics revealed four AcNit, As7Nit,
Cn5Nit and Cn9Nit predicted nitrilases encoding genes as uncharacterized subgroups of the nitrilase
superfamily. The annotation of these nitrilases encoding genes revealed relatedness with nitrilase hydratases
and cyanoalanine hydratases. At the proteomics level, the motif analysis of these protein sequences
predicted a single motif of 20-28 aa, with glutamate (E), lysine (K) and cysteine (C) residues
as a part of catalytic triad along with several other residues at the active site. The structural analysis of
the nitrilases revealed geometrical and close conformation in the form of α-helices and β-sheets arranged
in a sandwich structure. The catalytic residues constituted the substrate binding pocket and exhibited
the broad nitrile substrate spectra for aromatic and aliphatic nitriles-containing compounds.
The aromatic amino acid residues Y159 in the active site were predicted to be responsible for substrate
specificity. The substitution of non-aromatic alanine residue in place of Y159 completely disrupted
the catalytic activity for indole-3-acetonitrile (IAN).

Conclusion:

The present study reports genome mining and simulation of structure-function relationship
for uncharacterized bacterial nitrilases and their role in the biodegradation of pollutants and xenobiotics,
which could be of applications in different industrial sectors.
Gene Therapy Cargoes Based on Viral Vector Delivery
Authors: Lundstrom Kenneth
Published: September 2022

Viral vectors have proven useful in a broad spectrum of gene therapy applications due to their possibility to accommodate foreign genetic material for both local and systemic delivery. The wide range of viral vectors has enabled gene therapy applications for both acute and chronic diseases. Cancer gene therapy has been addressed by delivery of viral vectors expressing anti-tumor, toxic, and suicide genes for destruction of tumors. Delivery if immunostimulatory genes such as cytokines and chemokines has also been applied for cancer therapy. Moreover, oncolytic viruses specifically replicating in and killing tumor cells have been used as such for tumor eradication or in combination with tumor killing or immunostimulatory genes. In a broad meaning, vaccines against infectious diseases and various cancers can be considered as gene therapy, which has been highly successful not the least for development of effective COVID-19 vaccines. Viral vector-based gene therapy has also demonstrated encouraging and promising results for chronic diseases such as severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID), muscular dystrophy, and hemophilia. Preclinical gene therapy studies in animal models have demonstrated proof-of-concept for a wide range of disease indications. Clinical evaluation of drugs and vaccines in humans has showed high safety levels, good tolerance, and therapeutic efficacy. Several gene therapy drugs such as the adenovirus-based drug Gendicine® for non-small-cell lung cancer, the reovirus-based drug Reolysin® for ovarian cancer, lentivirus-based treatment of SCID-X1 disease, and the rhabdovirus-based vaccine Ervebo against Ebola virus disease, and adenovirus-based vaccines against COVID-19 have been developed.
Advances on Epigenetic Drugs for Pediatric Brain Tumors
Authors: Skouras Panagiotis , Markouli Mariam , Strepkos Dimitrios , Piperi Christina
Published: September 2022

Pediatric malignant brain tumors represent the most frequent cause of cancer-related deaths
in childhood. The therapeutic scheme of surgery, radiotherapy and chemotherapy has improved patient
management, but with minimal progress in patients’ prognosis. Emerging molecular targets and mechanisms
have revealed novel approaches for pediatric brain tumor therapy, enabling personalized medical
treatment. Advances in the field of epigenetic research and their interplay with genetic changes
have enriched our knowledge of the molecular heterogeneity of these neoplasms and have revealed
important genes that affect crucial signaling pathways involved in tumor progression. The great potential
of epigenetic therapy lies mainly in the widespread location and the reversibility of epigenetic alterations,
proposing a wide range of targeting options, including the possible combination of chemoand
immunotherapy, significantly increasing their efficacy. Epigenetic drugs, including inhibitors of
DNA methyltransferases, histone deacetylases and demethylases, are currently being tested in clinical
trials on pediatric brain tumors. Additional novel epigenetic drugs include protein and enzyme inhibitors
that modulate epigenetic modification pathways, such as Bromodomain and Extraterminal (BET)
proteins, Cyclin-Dependent Kinase 9 (CDK9), AXL, Facilitates Chromatin Transcription (FACT),
BMI1, and CREB Binding Protein (CBP) inhibitors, which can be used either as standalone or in
combination with current treatment approaches. In this review, we discuss recent progress on epigenetic
drugs that could possibly be used against the most common malignant tumors of childhood, such as
medulloblastomas, high-grade gliomas and ependymomas.
Alkaline Methanolysis and Octylamine Addition Products of Dehydrocostus
Lactone Isolated from Echinops kebericho Root
Authors: Gashu Minbale
Published: September 2022

Dehydrocostus lactone is biosynthesized in Saussurea lappa (commonly known as costus), Echinops kebericho, and E. amplexicaulis. Since reports described the compound as a bioactive metabolite, many analogues were synthesized to evaluate the structure-activity relationship. In this study, two new analogues of the active principle were synthesized to compare their mycelial growth inhibition potential against two plant pathogens, namely, Fusarium species causing root rot/wilt of faba bean and Phytophthora infestans triggering potato late blight in Ethiopia. Structural changes at the lactone ring of the synthesized compounds led to a decrease in growth inhibition diameter, which describes the role of the α-methylene-γ-lactone moiety in determining the observed bioactivity. The chemical structures of the two new compounds are elucidated using spectroscopic analysis and reported for the first time.
Prophylactic and Therapeutic Potential Zinc Metallodrugs Drug Discovery:
Identification of SARS-CoV-2 Replication and Spike/ACE2 Inhibitors
Authors: Ngoepe Mpho P. , Tapala Kgaugelo C. , Clayton Hadley S.
Published: September 2022

Background:

The emergence of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARSCoV-
2) variants with novel spike protein mutations has been shown to be influencing the epidemiological
and clinical aspects of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Objective:

Due to studies showing various dietary benefits of zinc as a viral replication inhibitor as
well as an immunity enhancer, organometallic complexes incorporating zinc ions can be ideal antiviral
candidates due to their structural variation and diverse stereochemistry.

Methods:

In silico studies were conducted for the virtual screening of zinc complexes with SARSCoV-
2 and host proteins to explore their effect on viral entry and replication activity. Molegro Virtual
Docker along with AutoDock was used for the identification of potential SARS-CoV-2 inhibitor
complexes from the Cambridge Structural Database (CSD). Molecular dynamics (MD), density
functional theory (DFT), chemical absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion, and toxicity
properties (ADMET) were used to support the findings from virtual screening.

Results:

In correlation with SARS-CoV-2 RNA-dependent RNA polymerase and spike receptorbinding
domain bound with ACE2 docking results, the compound (bis(3,5-dimethyl-1H-pyrazole)-
bis(2-furoato)-zinc(ii)) (CSD code ECOZAA) occurs to be a potential metal complex SARS-CoV-2
receptor inhibitor. The compound ECOZAA was observed (in silico binding affinity = -
179.29kcal/mol) to behave better than the clinically approved drug Remdesivir (in silico binding
affinity = -62.69kcal/mol) against SARS-CoV-2 RNA-dependent RNA polymerase. The large HOMO-
LUMO gap for the ECOZAA compound is an indication of the low chemical reactivity as well
as the great kinetic stability of the compound.

Conclusion:

Thus, this study highlights the potential use of zinc metal complexes as SARS-CoV-2
viral entry and replication inhibitors.
Comparing the Effects of Pregabalin and Clonidine on Postoperative Pain
in Tonsillectomy: A Randomized, Double-blind, Prospective Clinical Trial
Authors: Sane Shahryar , Vash Rahman Abbasi , Rahmani Nazila , Talebi Hadi , Golabi Parang , Kalashipour Farid , Heidari Poneh , Hatami Mohammad-Foad , Haki Behzad Kazemi , Morwati Shabnam
Published: September 2022

Background:

Tonsillectomy is one of the most common surgical procedures. This study
compared the effect of Pregabalin and Clonidine on postoperative pain in adult patients undergoing
elective tonsillectomy.

Methods:

This randomized, double-blind, prospective clinical trial was conducted among 92
patients aged 20 to 50. The clonidine group (C) was given 150 μg of clonidine tablet 90 minutes
before surgery, and the pregabalin group (P) was given 300 mg of pregabalin tablet 90 minutes
before surgery. The results were analyzed by SPSS 25, and statistical analysis consisted of chisquare,
T-test, and χ2 tests, and a p-value less than 0.05 was considered significant.

Results:

The mean pain score and analgesic consumption scores in the pregabalin group were lower
than in the clonidine group. According to the t-test, there was a significant difference between the
two groups regarding pain score and analgesic consumption (p <0.05). Hemodynamic variation in
both groups had no significant differences (p >0.05).

Conclusion:

The present study showed that pregabalin reduced postoperative pain and analgesic
consumption more effectively than clonidine.

Clinical Trial Registration Number:

IRCT20160430027677N19.
Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice Towards Reproductive Health Issue of Adolescents in Rural area, Indonesia: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Adjie JM Seno , Kurniawan Andrew Pratama , Surya Raymond
Published: September 2022

Background:

Indonesia’s population is dominated by adolescents; however, reproductive health (RH) issues significantly affect them. Limited access to information and taboo issues regarding reproductive health are significant problems in Indonesian rural areas.

Objectives:

This study investigates the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) regarding RH issues among high school adolescents in rural areas in Indonesia and provides information about RH issues.

Methods:

This is a quantitative, pre-and post-workshop evaluation, cross-sectional descriptive study determining the KAP of adolescents regarding reproductive health issues. We used a questionnaire to measure the KAP. It was conducted on all high school students in Mekong 1 High School of Meranti district, Riau province, Indonesia. After filling out the questionnaire, there was a 25-minute workshop to educate them on RH issues. A statistical significance was set at p<0.05

Results:

121 students completed the questionnaire. Most of them were 17 years old lived with parents (93.4%), with their father’s occupation being labor (42.9%) and housewife (89.3%) for their mothers. The median results of their knowledge were low, although they had a positive attitude and mostly had good practice. There were no differences in knowledge and attitude based on class or gender, but there was a difference of practice between genders. The workshop improves their knowledge level significantly.

Conclusion:

High school students in the rural district have low knowledge, positive attitudes, and poor sexual health and reproduction practices. There are five of the 121 students who had sex before. The workshop that had been done significantly increased their knowledge and attitude.
Hoslundia opposita Vahl. - A Promising Source of Bioactive Compounds
against Infectious and Non-infectious Diseases
Authors: Oyeyemi Ifeoluwa T. , Ojo Tunbi D. , Oyeyemi Oyetunde T.
Published: September 2022

Hoslundia opposita is an aromatic plant of the family Lamiaceae and the only member of
the Hoslundia genus. It is used traditionally for treating HIV/AIDs related diseases, Breast cancer,
gonorrhea, syphilis, appendicitis, epilepsy and convulsion, malaria, etc. A review of relevant literature
on biology, folkloric uses, phytochemistry and pharmacology were done. The electronic databases
searched included Google Scholar, PubMed, Science Direct, Wiley and Springer. Sixteen bioactive
compounds have been isolated from the plants, namely; 3-O-benzoylhosloppone, 3-Ocinnamoylhosloppone,
3-O-benzoylhinokiol, 3-O-benzoylhosloquine, Euscaphic acid, 5,7-
dimethoxy6-methylflavone, Hoslunddiol, Oppositin, 5-O-methylhoslundin, Tectochrysin, Hoslundin,
Hoslunfuranine, 5-O-methylhoslunfuranine, Hosloppin, Hoslundal and Ursolic acid. The
plant, with its phytochemicals, has shown various pharmacological effects such as antimalarial, antidiabetes,
antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anticancer and immunomodulatory effects. This review
presented scientific findings on the therapeutic potential of Hoslundia opposita against several infectious
and non-infectious diseases. There is a need for further investigation of the mechanism underlying
the therapeutic potential of this plant against various diseases. There is also a need for clinical
trials which will validate its efficacy and safety.
Reactions to Negative Feedback: The Role of Resiliency and Implications for Counterproductivity
Authors: Daljeet Kabir N. , Feeney Justin R. , Goffin Richard D.
Published: September 2022

We evaluated the effect of three self-regulatory processes on the relationship between affect and counterproductive workplace behaviour intentions (CWBi) in the context of employees receiving performance feedback using a moderated mediation approach. Using vignettes, participants were given job performance feedback and completed measures of affect, workplace resiliency, and CWBi. Using 292 employed participants, we found that two self-regulatory components of workplace resiliency moderated the relationship between feedback type and CWBi, as mediated by negative affect. This suggests that the more one engages in self-regulation, the less likely they are to engage in counterproductive workplace behaviours following an adverse workplace experience.
Sexual harassment: In the eye of the beholder?
Authors: Stenmark Cheryl , Lara Ricardo , Krug Lillie
Published: September 2022

This study examined different perceptions of sexual harassment behaviors in a workplace setting, based on the characteristics of the person observing harassment. Participants rated they extent to which they detected sexual harassment across a series of vignettes of varying levels of sexual harassment ambiguity. Participants’ (observers of the sexual harassment) gender, race, sexual orientation, and whether the individual had received sexual harassment training were examined. Interactions among these observer characteristics were also examined, in order to examine differences in perceptions of sexual harassment related to observers’ membership in intersectional groups. The results of the study indicated differences among perceptions in sexual harassment associated with the observers’ gender, sexual orientation, race, and sexual harassment training. A number of significant interactions were observed. Implications of these findings for theory and practice are discussed.
Constructing Creative Confidence with LEGO(R) Serious Play(R)
Authors: Dykes McGehee Wendi
Published: September 2022

Creativity and innovative decision-making are among the most desired traits for leaders today. How does one develop these traits to meet the challenges facing the workplace? One answer is through building a mindset of creative confidence. This study explores the use of Lego® Serious Play® (LSP) to inspire the mindset of creative confidence in individuals. Findings affirm the need for the “other” in the creative process, expose increased levels of perspective-taking among participants, and suggests that divergent thinking can be taught. All positioning LSP as a tool for exercising the mental muscle known as creative confidence.
Strengthening teacher pedagogical literacy after the Covid-19 pandemic in vocational secondary education in Banten Province
Authors: Wahjusaputri Sintha , Sukmawati Wati , Nastiti Tashia Indah , Noorlatipah Via
Published: September 2022

The purpose of this study is to improve the pedagogic competence of teachers in implementing literacy in learning through lesson study, namely: socialization, training, self-evaluation, reflective pedagogical paradigm, exploration, simulation, documentation, group discussion, mapping, and practice at SMK Negeri 3 South Tangerang, Banten Province, Indonesia. This type of research is action research which consists of two cycles, each carried out in four meetings. The research procedure includes (1) planning, (2) implementing actions, (3) observing, and (4) reflection. The subjects in the study were productive teachers and normative teachers at SMK Negeri 3 Tangsel, opening 15 people. The results showed that the teacher's pedagogic competence in implementing literacy in pre-action learning was 37%, the first cycle increased by 83%, and the second cycle increased significantly by 100%. Classically the percentage has increased by 63%. Based on these results, it can be said that lesson study can improve the pedagogic competence of teachers in implementing literacy in learning at SMK Negeri 3 Tangsel, Banten Province.
The role of the heutagogy approach in advanced adult education as rebuilding the vocational self-concept in the industrial era 4.0 and society 5.0
Authors: Sumarni Titi , Sudira Putu
Published: September 2022

Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) is established by UNESCO and ILO as education and training that are beneficial for the community. The community will be able to develop when they can use their leadership skill properly. This is what makes adult vocational education very important in building the nation. One example of the role of adult vocational education is reducing unemployment through a heutagogy approach. The heutagogy approach centered on individual participants, where the individual has full autonomy in creating their learning. The heutagogy approach is also useful for developing an individual's self-capacity and vocational self-concept. The individual vocational self-concept through the heutagogy approach can help students, graduates, alumni, and the community develop skills (re-skills, up-skills) and prepare to enter the world of work. The skill development can be done by forming (re-establishing) the individual's vocational self-concept. In the development of the industrial revolution 4.0 and society 5.0, the role of self-concept with a heutagogy approach in advanced adult education is to build vocational self-concepts so that they can be independent in learning, prepare work skills and utilize technology well as lifelong learning, and make an individual as a digital transformation society. Besides that, the heutagogy approach has a triple loop learning process that aims to make the right decision on a learning power of vocational self-concept. With the preparation of work skills, the self-concept of vocational maturity means that the higher the self-concept, the higher the maturity of the in the industrial era 4.0 career and Society 5.0 or with the existence of vocational self-concept in the future can make mature decisions.
Emergency Visits and Hospitalization After Chat Message, Voice Call, or Video Call for Telehealth in Obstetrics and Gynecology Using Telehealth Service User Data in Japan: Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Sakakibara Koichi , Shigemi Daisuke , Toriumi Rena , Ota Ai , Michihata Nobuaki , Yasunaga Hideo
Published: September 2022

Background

In obstetric and gynecologic practices, synchronous telehealth services via chat message, voice calls, and video calls have been increasingly equipped to improve patients’ health care accessibility and clinical outcomes. Nevertheless, differences in clinical outcomes between communication tools remain unknown, especially in terms of safety.

Objective

This study compared the occurrence of emergency visits and hospitalization after telehealth services through different communication tools, including chat messages, voice calls, and video calls.

Methods

We collected data on obstetric and gynecologic concerns of women who consulted specialized doctors and midwives through a telehealth consulting service in Japan (Sanfujin-ka Online) between January 1, 2019, and December 31, 2020. The outcomes were emergency visits or hospitalizations at night after the consultation. Chi-square test and multivariate logistic regression analysis were performed to compare the clinical outcomes between the groups who received telehealth services via chat message, voice calls, and video calls.

Results

This study included 3635 participants. The mean age of the participants was 31.4 (SD 5.7) years, and the largest age group (n=2154, 59.3%) was 30-39 years. The numbers (or proportions) of those who received telehealth services via chat message, voice calls, and video calls were 1584 (43.5%), 1947 (53.6%), and 104 (2.9%), respectively. The overall incidence of the outcome was 0.7% (26/3635), including 10 (0.3%) cases of chat message, 16 (0.5%) cases of voice calls, and no video calls. There were no emergency visits that happened due to inappropriate advice. No significant difference in the proportions of the outcomes was observed between the communication tools (P=.55). The multivariate logistic regression analysis showed no significant differences in the outcome between those who used chat message and those who used voice calls (odds ratio 1.63, 95% CI 0.73-3.65).

Conclusions

The communication tools of telehealth services in obstetrics and gynecology did not show a significant difference in terms of emergency visits or hospitalizations after using the service.