bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Human Serum Albumin Aggregation and its Modulation Using Nanoparticles: A Review
Authors: Paramasivam Santhosh , Kundal Kavita , Sarkar Nandini
Published: November 2021

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Amyloid fibrils are highly stable protein fibrillar aggregates believed to be involved in
various neurodegenerative diseases, which include Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and
prion diseases. Inhibiting the aggregation process is a potential strategy to prevent diseases caused
by amyloid formation. In this regard, nanoparticles have emerged as promising candidates owing
to their unique physical/chemical properties of small size, large surface area, biocompatibility,
biodegradability, non-toxicity, and ease of functionalization. Human Serum Albumin (HSA) is a
soluble multidomain monomeric protein that interacts with various ligands and hormones, aiding in
their transport, distribution, metabolism in the circulatory system, and also plays a vital role in extracellular
fluid volume stabilization. Under certain in vitro conditions, HSA has been reported to
undergo conformational changes leading to fibril formation and hence acts as a suitable model for
studying amyloidogenesis. In this review, we have explored the effects of various nanoparticles on
HSA aggregation and their mechanism of action. The study will throw light on the mechanistic details
of nanoparticle-mediated amyloid modulation, which will help in the development of effective
therapeutics against amyloidosis.
Biophysical Insight into Protein Folding, Aggregate Formation and its
Inhibition Strategies
Authors: Zakariya Syed Mohammad , Zehra Aiman , Khan Rizwan Hasan
Published: November 2021

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The failure of protein to correctly fold into its functional and unique three dimensional
form leads to misfolded or partially folded protein. When these rogue proteins and polypeptides escape
the quality control mechanism within the body, they result in aberrant aggregation of proteins
into characteristic amyloid fibrils. This is the main cause for the number of neurodegenerative diseases,
including Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s and Huntington’s diseases. This review aims to
summarise the underlying mechanisms of protein folding, misfolding and aggregation. It also highlights
the recent technologies for the structural characterisation and detection of amyloid fibrils in
addition to the various factors responsible for the aggregate formation and the strategies to combat
the aggregation process. Besides, the journey from origin to the current scenario of protein aggregation
is also concisely discussed.
Cloning, Prokaryotic Expression, and Purification of Acetyl-CoA C-Acetyltransferase
from Atractylodes lancea
Authors: Wu Junxian , Liu Weiwei , Lu Jimei , Xu Rui , Xie Jin , Zha Liangping
Published: November 2021

Background:

Cangzhu (Atractylodes lancea), a valuable and common traditional Chinese
medicinal herb, is primarily used as an effective medicine with various health-promoting effects.
The main pharmacological bioactive ingredients in the rhizome of A. lancea are terpenoids.
Acetyl-CoA C-acetyltransferase (AACT) is the first enzyme in the terpenoid synthesis pathway
and catalyzes two units of acetyl-CoA into acetoacetyl-CoA.

Objective:

The objective of the present work was to clone and identify function of AlAACT from
Atractylodes lancea.

Method:

A full-length cDNA clone of AlAACT was isolated using PCR and expressed in
Escherichia coli. The expressed protein was purified using Ni-NTA agarose column using standard
protocols. AlAACT was transiently expressed in N. benthamiana leaves to determine their subcellular
location. The difference in growth between recombinant bacteria and control bacteria under different
stresses was observed using the droplet plate experiment.

Result:

In this study, a full-length cDNA of AACT (AlAACT) was cloned from A. lancea, which
contains a 1,227 bp open reading frame and encodes a protein with 409 amino acids. Bioinformatic
and phylogenetic analysis clearly suggested that AlAACT shared high similarity with AACTs from
other plants. The recombinant protein pET32a(+)/AlAACT was successfully expressed in
Escherichia coli BL21 (DE3) cells induced with 0.4 mM IPTG at 30°C as the optimized condition.
The recombinant enzyme pET-32a-AlAACT was purified using the Ni-NTA column based on the
His-tag, and the molecular weight was determined to be 62 kDa through SDS-PAGE and Western
Blot analysis. The recombinant protein was eluted with 100, 300, and 500 mM imidazole; most of
the protein was eluted with 300 mM imidazole. Under mannitol stress, the recombinant pET-32a-
AlAACT protein showed a substantial advantage in terms of growth rates compared to the control.
However, this phenomenon was directly opposite under NaCl abiotic stress. Subcellular localization
showed that AlAACT localizes to the nucleus and cytoplasm.

Conclusion:

The expression and purification of recombinant enzyme pET-32a-AlAACT were successful,
and the recombinant strain pET-32a-AlAACT in showed better growth in a drought stress.
The expression of AlAACT-EGFP fusion protein revealed its localization in both nuclear and cytoplasm
compartments. This study provides an important foundation for further research into the effects
of terpenoid biosynthesis in A. lancea.
Update on the Biological Relevance of Lysine Acetylation as a Novel
Drug Target in Trypanosomatids
Authors: Peralta Gonzalo Martinez , Serra Esteban , Alonso Victoria Lucia
Published: November 2021

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The number of acetylated proteins identified from bacteria to mammals has
grown exponentially in the last ten years, and it is now accepted that acetylation is a key
component in most eukaryotic signaling pathways and is as important as phosphorylation.
The enzymes involved in this process are well described in mammals; acetyltransferases
and deacetylases are found inside and outside the nuclear compartment and have
different regulatory functions. In trypanosomatids, several of these enzymes have been
described and are postulated to be novel antiparasitic targets for the rational design of
drugs. In this review article, we present an update of the most important known acetylated
proteins in trypanosomatids, analyzing the acetylomes available. Also, we summarize
the information available regarding acetyltransferases and deacetylases in trypanosomes
and their potential use as chemotherapeutic targets.
Quinoxaline as Ubiquitous Structural Fragment: An Update on the Recent Development of its Green Synthetic Approaches
Authors: Patel Ashish , Shah Drashti , Patel Naiya , Patel Khushbu , Soni Nidhi , Nagai Afzal , Shah Umang , Patel Mehul , Patel Swayamprakash , Bhimani Bhargav , Bambharoliya Tushar
Published: November 2021

Quinoxaline is a versatile heterocyclic moiety that possesses a wide range of biological
activities. Therefore, many researchers have been performing the synthesis of quinoxaline
derivatives on a daily basis. In addition, high demands for their synthesis often result in an
increased generation of different waste chemicals. However, to minimize the utilization and
generation of toxic organic substances, the present review focuses on the various green synthetic
approaches for the synthesis of quinoxaline and its derivatives. Moreover, due to the
quick manufacturing of novel medications using a quinoxaline scaffold, multiple study reports
are published in a short period of time. Therefore, to fully comprehend the current state of the
quinoxaline scaffold in medicinal chemistry, it is necessary to combine recent findings with
previous understanding. Besides, compared to conventional methods, these green methods
minimize the use and generation of harmful chemicals and improve reaction efficiency in
terms of product yields, purity, energy consumption, and post-synthetic procedures. Therefore, in this review, we
have attempted to shed light on various green synthetic strategies leading to the synthesis of quinoxaline scaffold
and its derivatives, such as ultrasound irradiation, microwave irradiation, grindstone technique, environmentally
benign solvents/catalysts based, and reactant immobilized on a solid support, etc.
Methods for Direct Conversion of Primary Nitroalkanes to Nitriles
Authors: Ganesan Muthupandian
Published: November 2021

In recent years, reductive dehydration of primary nitro compounds has been
demonstrated as an attractive and alternative approach for the direct synthesis of nitriles. Although
scattered information on the conversion of alkyl nitrites and/or nitroalkanes to the corresponding
nitriles has been reported in the literature, a research paper describing comprehensive
information at one place is scarce. The present review has attempted to focus on the uncatalyzed
as well as catalyzed reductive dehydration of nitro compounds directly into nitriles
in the presence of dehydrating reagents. Non-metal and metal-catalyzed dehydration of nitro
compounds and the use of radical chemistry in accessing nitriles have been highlighted in this
review article.
Study on the Relationship between Rivaroxaban and Factor Xa Activity in Blood
Based on HPLC-MS/MS
Authors: Liu Hongchuan , Zhao Zhixia , Wang Yingkai , Liu Lihong , Yang Yuanhua , An Zhuoling
Published: November 2021

Objective:

The aim of the study was to investigate a high-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS/MS) method for the determination of rivaroxaban and evaluate the correlation between plasma concentration and anti-Xa activity in patients using oral rivaroxaban.

Methods:

In this study, the plasma concentration of rivaroxaban and anti-Xa factor activities was determined in 125 patients, and the relationship between the two variables was analysed by SPSS 21.0 software.

Results:

The results showed that the plasma concentrations of oral rivaroxaban patients were significantly correlated with the activity of the anti-Xa factor (Spearman’s r = 0.990, p < 0.05).

Conclusion:

The plasma concentrations of rivaroxaban are a potentially useful monitoring indicator to assess the patient’s bleeding risk if testing for plasma anti-Xa activity is not available.
Recent Advances in Biotransformation by Cunninghamella Species
Authors: Gonçalves Manoela Daiele , Tomiotto-Pellissier Fernanda , de Matos Ricardo Luís Nascimento , Assolini João Paulo , da Silva Bortoleti Bruna Taciane , Concato Virginia Marcia , Silva Taylon Felipe , Rafael Janice Aparecida , Pavanelli Wander Rogério , Conchon-Costa Ivete , Arakawa Nilton Syogo
Published: November 2021

:

The goal of the biotransformation process is to develop structural changes and generate new chemical
compounds, which can occur naturally in mammalian and microbial organisms, such as filamentous fungi, and represent
a tool to achieve enhanced bioactive compounds. Cunninghamella spp is among the fungal models most widely
used in biotransformation processes at phase I and II reactions, mimicking the metabolism of drugs and xenobiotics
in mammals and generating new molecules based on substances of natural and synthetic origin. Therefore, the goal
of this review is to highlight the studies involving the biotransformation of Cunninghamella species between January
2015 and March 2021, in addition to updating existing studies to identify the similarities between the human metabolite
and Cunninghamella patterns of active compounds, with related advantages and challenges, and providing new
tools for further studies in this scope.
Regulatory Effects of N-3 PUFAs on Pancreatic β-cells and Insulin-sensitive Tissues
Authors: Liu Wen , Zheng Qing , Zhu Min , Liu Xiaohong , Liu Jingping , Lu Yanrong , Cheng Jingqiu , Chen Younan
Published: November 2021

:

The N-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) have a wide range of health benefits, including antiinflammatory
effects, improvements in lipids metabolism and promoting insulin secretion, as well as reduction of
cancer risk. Numerous studies support that N-3 PUFAs have the potentials to improve many metabolic diseases, such
as diabetes, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease and obesity, which are attributable to N-3 PUFAs mediated enhancement
of insulin secretion by pancreatic β-cells and improvements in insulin sensitivity and metabolic disorders in peripheral
insulin-sensitive tissues such as liver, muscles, and adipose tissue. In this review, we summarized the up-to-date
clinical and basic studies on the regulatory effects and molecular mechanisms of N-3 PUFAs mediated benefits on
pancreatic β-cells, adipose tissue, liver, and muscles in the context of glucose and/or lipid metabolic disorders. We
also discussed the potential factors involved in the inconsistent results from different clinical researches of N-3 PUFAs.
Roles of M6A Regulators in Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Promotion or Suppression
Authors: Tang Hua , Chen Jiamao , Zhang Qian , Liu Ting
Published: November 2021

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the sixth globally diagnosed cancer with a poor prognosis.
Although the pathological factors of hepatocellular carcinoma are well elucidated, the underlying
molecular mechanisms remain unclear. N6-methyladenosine (M6A) is adenosine methylation
occurring at the N6 site, which is the most prevalent modification of eukaryotic mRNA. Recent
studies have shown that M6A can regulate gene expression, thus modulating the processes of cell
self-renewal, differentiation, and apoptosis. The methyls in M6A are installed by methyltransferases
(“writers”), removed by demethylases (“erasers”) and recognized by M6A-binding proteins
(“readers”). In this review, we discuss the roles of the above regulators in the progression and prognosis
of HCC, and summarize the clinical association between M6A modification and hepatocellular
carcinoma, so as to provide more valuable information for clinical treatment.
Pharmacological Medical Treatment of Epilepsy in Patients with Dementia: A Systematic Review
Authors: Musaeus Christian S. , Nilsson Christer , Cooper Chris , Kramberger Milica G. , Verdelho Ana , Stefanova Elka , Religa Dorota , Waldemar Gunhild , Frederiksen Kristian S.
Published: November 2021

Background:

Patients with dementia have an increased risk of developing epilepsy, especially
in patients with vascular dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. In selecting the optimal anti-
epileptic drug (AED), the possible side effects such as drowsiness and worsening of cognitive
function should be taken into consideration, together with co-morbidities and type of epilepsy.

Objective:

The current systematic review investigates the efficacy, tolerability, and changes in cognitive
function after administration of AED in patients with dementia and epilepsy.

Methods:

We searched six databases, including MEDLINE and CENTRAL, checked reference
lists, contacted experts, and searched Google Scholar to identify studies reporting randomized
trials. Studies identified were independently screened, data extracted, and quality appraised by two
researchers. A narrative synthesis was used to report findings.

Results:

We included one study with 95 patients with Alzheimer’s disease randomized to either levetiracetam,
lamotrigine, or phenobarbital. No significant differences were found for efficacy, but
patients receiving levetiracetam showed an improvement in mini-mental state examination scores
and had fewer adverse events.

Conclusion:

High-quality evidence in the form of randomized controlled trials to guide clinicians
in choosing an AED in patients with dementia and concomitant epilepsy remains scarce. However,
levetiracetam has previously been shown to possibly improve cognition in patients with both mild
cognitive impairment and Alzheimer’s disease, is better tolerated in the elderly population, and has
no clinically relevant interaction with either cholinesterase inhibitors or NMDA receptor antagonists.
MR Brain Screening using Optimization Techniques - A Survey
Authors: Chitradevi D. , Prabha S.
Published: November 2021

Background:

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is associated with Dementia, and it is also a memory
syndrome in the brain. It affects the brain tissues and causes major changes in day-to-day activities.
Aging is a major cause of Alzheimer’s disease. AD is characterized by two pathological
hallmarks, Amyloid β protein and neurofibrillary tangles of hyperphosphorylated tau protein. The
imaging hallmarks for Alzheimer’s disease are swelling, shrinkage of brain tissues due to cell loss,
and atrophy in the brain due to protein dissemination. Based on the survey, 60% to 80% of dementia
patients belong to Alzheimer’s disease.

Introduction:

AD is now becoming an important brain disease. The goal of AD pathology is to
cause changes/damage in brain tissues. Alzheimer’s disease is thought to begin 20 years or more before
symptoms appear, with tiny changes in the brain that are undetectable to the person affected.
The changes in a person’s brain after a few years are noticeable through symptoms such as language
difficulties and memory loss. Neurons in different parts of the brain have detected symptoms
such as cognitive impairments and learning disabilities. In this case, neuroimaging tools are necessary
to identify the development of pathology which relates to the clinical symptoms.

Methods:

Several approaches have been tried during the last two decades for brain screening to
analyse AD using pre-processing, segmentation, and classification. Different individuals, such as
Grey Wolf optimization, Lion Optimization, Ant Lion Optimization, etc., have been attempted in
the proposed study. Similarly, hybrid optimization techniques are also attempted to segment the
brain sub-regions, which helps in identifying the biomarkers to analyse AD.

Conclusion:

This study discusses a review of neuroimaging technologies for diagnosing
Alzheimer’s disease, as well as the discovery of hallmarks for the disease and the methodologies
for finding hallmarks from brain images to evaluate AD. According to the literature review, most
of the techniques predicted higher accuracy (more than 90%), which is beneficial for assessing and
screening neurodegenerative disease, particularly Alzheimer’s disease.
Impact on Growth and Secondary Metabolites in White Poplar (Populus
alba L.) Callus using SeNPs@Moringa
Authors: Abo El-Fadl Reda E. , El-Saber Mahmoud M. , Ahmed Manal E.A. , Abd Elaziem Tamer M. , El-Sayed Ahmed A.
Published: November 2021

Background:

Green synthesis of nanoparticles has provided a cost-effective, environmentally
friendly method, as well as raised safe strategies for the synthesis of nanomaterials.

Methods:

In this study, we investigated the synthesis of Selenium nanoparticles from the leaf aqueous
extract of Moringa oleifera (MO-SeNPs) and studied the effect of MO-SeNPs and Moringa extract
with various concentrations on the growth, active constituents, and antioxidant activity (scavenging
DPPH) of Populus alba callus. MS medium supplemented with (2, 4-D at 2 mg/l + 0.5 mg/l
BA) took the maximum callus induction percentage (100%), increasing the callus fresh weight, dry
weight, and degree of callus formation compared with (2.0 mg/l 2,4-D + 0.5 mg/l Kin).

Results:

The highest values of callus fresh and dry weight were recorded on MS containing 20%
MO-SeNPs. Regarding the active constituents, the GC-MS chromatogram revealed the presence of
23 major compounds identified in the chloroform extract. The phytoconstituents with maximum
peak area in callus extract are Tetradecane, Hexadecen-1-ol, Trans-9, 5-Octadecene, (Benzene, 1-
pentyloctyl), (Benzene, 1-butylnonyl), Cycloeicosane, and 10-Heneicosene in all treatments.
Moringa extract and MO-SeNPs stimulate the increase of compounds in callus compared to control.
In this regard, MO-SeNPs 5% led to a higher increase in the area percent of active substances compared
to the treatment of Moringa extract and control. Concerning the antioxidant activity, the results
indicated that Moringa extract and MO-SeNPs had a positive effect on scavenging DPPH
compared with the control. The highest percentages of scavenging DPPH were recorded when Populus
alba L. callus treated with MO-SeNPs 20%, 10%, and Moringa extract 20%, percentages
reached (84.65, 75.35, and 71.94%), respectively.

Conclusion :

Green synthesis of MO-SeNPs improved secondary metabolites and antioxidant activity
in Populus alba L. callus.
Roma children's access to education during COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Tana Ardian , Hasa Erjona , Shengjergji Armando , Osmanaj Elisabeta
Published: November 2021

This study focuses on the education of Roma children in Albania during the pandemic conditions due to the SARS CoV-2 virus. The effectiveness of the teaching & learning process during this period has been low, especially for Roma children, who even under normal conditions result the ones lacking quality access to the education system. The study advances the hypothesis that Roma pupils are the category that did not have access during pandemics to the teaching and learning process. The purpose of the study is to highlight the situation roma children faced during the pandemic, the level & quality of the access they had to this process and to provide some recommendations for improving the situation. The research questions raised in our study, were answered through interviews conducted with Roma children's parents and teachers at schools in Elbasan where the number of these children is high. The data and results of the study have proven the hypotheses that were advanced. The recommendations are directed tothe central governance institutions as well as tothe local government.
Type of instructions performed in online teaching and learning
Authors: Mufaridah Fitrotul
Published: November 2021

Teaching and learning has changed and performed new challenge to provide attracting instruct for students to be active in online learning. The way to run the process of teaching and learning are modified. The use of technology in communicating the teaching-learning material is challenging. Different types of instructions motivate different to students to follow the online class activities. The communication delivered through the instructions becomes a key to guide the process of online teaching and learning. How the instructions performed by the teacher create interesting interaction in online learning. So, it is interesting to analyze further how the instructions work to activate the students’ involvement in online teaching-learning. This research is to describe how the types of instructions performed in online teaching and learning based on the implementation of teaching model. The data is collected from documents of lesson instruction design. This research uses qualitative approach to analyze the data. The result of the research is analyzed related to the types of instructions used in processing the learning activites through instructions provided by the teacher. The conclusion found three types of appropriate instructions to motivate and activate students in the process of online teaching and learning.
Electronic evidence
Authors: Golovin Dmytro , Nazymko Yehor , Koropatov Oleh , Korniienko Maksym
Published: November 2021

Relevance of the problem outlined in the article is due to increasing levels of crime in the sphere of illicit trafficking in narcotic drugs, psychotropic substances, their analogues or precursors using information and telecommunication systems. The aim of the article is a comprehensive analysis of the problem of the use of electronic evidence in proving crimes of trafficking in narcotic drugs, psychotropic substances, their analogues or precursors. To achieve the goal were used to theoretical, historical comparative methods and logical analysis; application of dialectical method allowed to reveal the meaning of concepts "electronic evidence The article presents the most common methods of communication in the sale of drugs, psychotropic substances, their analogues or precursors through such means of communication as messengers, social networks, online games, proprietary programs. It is established that the main causes of drug trafficking crimes include: insufficient legal regulation of cyberspace, the lack of geographical boundaries, the spread of information about drugs on the Internet, especially in Darknet), the uncontrolled development of the cryptocurrency market. The definition of electronic proof in the Ukrainian legal system, as well as the forms and features of electronic proof are considered.
Gaps, conflicts and contradictions regarding measures to ensure the right to a fair trial of the convention for the protection of human rights and fundamental freedoms
Authors: Sobko Ganna , Muliar Galyna , Draliuk Ivan , Hryhorchuk Myroslav , Holovko Oleksandr , Lvova Ielyzaveta
Published: November 2021

The first paragraph of Article 6 states that the right to a fair trial is when everyone has the right to a fair and impartial hearing in a court of law within a reasonable time, independently of the law governing the dispute over his rights and obligations. both civil and other (criminal, administrative) nature and the establishment of the accusation against her. The court decision must be made public, but the press and the public may not be allowed in the courtroom during the entire time the case is heard in court or only part of the hearing in the interests of a democratic society, namely morality, public order, national security, and this is required by the interests of the juvenile or the protection of the privacy of individuals, or, if the Court has found the measure necessary, when, in special circumstances, the publicity of the proceedings may be prejudicial to the interests of justice.
disintegration challenge of reforming the Eurozone
Authors: Revenko Anatoly , Rybak Sergii , Karasova Nataliia
Published: November 2021

The main objective of this study is to analyze endogenous destabilizing and disintegration tendencies within the framework of the crisis of the European Monetary Union, which grew into a crisis in the real economy. This involved several EU members states at the same time. Achieving this goal requires addressing several theoretical and historical lessons, that point to an important dilemma for the survival of the European project in the future. Research methods include: systematic, procedural, and situational approaches to the study of Eurozone countries and participants in the integration project and disintegration influences and an institutional approach to the detection and analysis of dysfunctional institutional configuration within the framework of the European Monetary Union. Of significant importance for the study of the problems of economic integration and disintegration was the use of the principles of universal scientific methodology. This included an integrated approach to problem-solving, which envisaged a general vision of the movement of capital in the context of the European integration project. Also, the application of methods of logical models, induction, and deduction. The unity of logic and history in the development of a research object confirms the synergistic effect of historical and theoretical lessons.
Pervivencias gráficas históricas: el caso de “villa pura” (1912-1914), en la ciudad española de San Sebastián
Authors:   Universidad de Zaragoza, España, Espada Torres Diana María
Published: November 2021

Este estudio se centra en el análisis de un caso concreto de patrimonio arquitectónico desaparecido en España durante la primera mitad del siglo XX, como fue la residencia perteneciente a la familia Navarro Pérez ubicada en la localidad vasca de San Sebastián, durante el periodo conocido como La belle époque. Una construcción de estilo modernista, situada en las faldas del monte Igueldo, obra del arquitecto Miguel Ángel Navarro Pérez (Zaragoza 1883 - 1956), un año después de titularse en la Escuela de Arquitectura de Barcelona. Todo ello ha sido posible gracias a la existencia de diversas fuentes gráficas (fotografías y sobre todo planos), conservadas y localizadas en diferentes archivos de carácter público y privado que nos han permitido paliar el testimonio de dicha construcción conocida en origen con el nombre de Villa Pura y posteriormente denominada Rocaforte.
Encuentros interétnicos en la arquitectura Kayapó
Authors: Sá Earp Julia , Dávila Valentina
Published: November 2021

Partiendo de la experiencia interétnica de asesoría para la construcción de casas del proyecto Kikré, abordaremos desde una mirada crítica las mezclas o yuxtaposiciones dadas en la arquitectura Kayapó. Así, buscamos visibilizar el carácter participativo del proyecto como un método desarrollado de acuerdo con las especificidades de las personas y su cosmovisión. Estos procesos de yuxtaposiciones pueden verse como evidencias de la forma en que este pueblo comprende la cultura de los blancos con respecto a los lugares, la cultura y su propia economía, apropiándose y transformándola según sus preceptos culturales, resistiendo y protegiendo su cultura inmaterial.
De estéticas, historias y patrimonios
Authors: Álvarez Ana María
Published: November 2021

Este número empezó a cocerse en medio de la pandemia declarada en 2020. Y se cierra en el mismo contexto, en un mundo (el mundo entero) que se acomoda con menos restricciones y con algo de esperanza. Agradecemos profundamente a los autores que se lanzaron a responder la convocatoria y a quienes trabajaron con nosotros en esta edición.
Global citizenship cultivation through COIL-PBL model: case study of the Great Debates course
Authors: Tuke Greg , Kapur Sonia , Ashour Karim
Published: November 2021

The current global political, economic, and social challenges urge the need to cultivate global citizenship among students in their learning process. This paper presents the role of Collaboration Online International Learning (COIL) using theProject-Based Learning (PBL) approach in cultivating global citizenship among university students. The paper explains the different implementation challenges of a COIL course on the different levels and core design elements of the COIL-PBL model to overcome such challenges. Empirically, this paper presents a primary case study of the Great Debates course that was implemented in different forms by three partner universities, which are the University of Washington Bothell (UWB), the University of North Carolina Asheville (UNCA) in the USA, and the Future University in Egypt (FUE). The implementation showed a positive impact on cultivating global citizenship among participating students, which isclear from developments in students’ skills in the areas of cross-cultural communication and negotiation, cultural sensitivity and tolerance, teamwork and coordination across virtual global teams, analytical skills, and perception toward other cultures and society. Notably, the COIL-PBL model has started to gain further popularity after the COVID-19pandemic as an alternative for physical mobility, which encourages future research in this area using other implemented courses using the COIL-PBL model.
The effects of moxidectin nicotine-conditioned cue on nicotine-seeking behavior in mice
Authors:   Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Bolu Izzet Baysal University, Bolu, Turkey, et al. Yunusoğlu
Published: November 2021

Current pharmacotherapies for nicotine abuse are few and relatively inefficient demonstrating the need for the development of new, effective remedies. Moxidectin is used as an anti-parasitic agent in both animals and humans, it also activates GABA receptors. The objective of the present investigation was to study the effect of moxidectin on nicotine-induced conditioned place preference (CPP) in male Swiss mice. Intraperitoneal (i.p.) route was used for nicotine (0.5mg/kg) administration for a 3-day conditioning program. The influences of moxidectin on the reinforcing characteristics of nicotine were tested in mice given i.p. treatment of moxidectin (5 and 10mg/kg) 30 minutes prior to per nicotine administration. CPP was extinguished by repeated testing, through which conditioned mice were daily given two doses of moxidectin (5 and 10mg/kg, i.p.). Subsequently, the potency of moxidectin in blocking the reinstatement of CPP provoked by priming given low-dose nicotine (0.1mg/kg, i.p.) was also evaluated. Moxidectin treatment illustrated a reserve of acquisition of nicotine-induced CPP. It was reduced priming nicotine-induced reinstatement and accelerated the extinction of CPP. Relatively nicotine enhanced the locomotor, motor activity but was not statistically significant. In conclusion, the outcomes demonstrate the potential for the development of moxidectin as a new pharmacotherapy for the treatment of nicotine addiction.
Diversify thematic organization, extracurricular activities to improve the effectiveness of social skills education for junior high school students
Authors:   Educational Science Department, Ho Chi Minh City University of Education, Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam, et al. Nhan
Published: November 2021

This article proposes an essential solution to improve the quality and effectiveness of social skills education for students at public junior high schools in Ho Chi Minh City, which is the fastest developed city in Vietnam that is demanding better human resources coming out from schools, by analyzing the status quo of managing and conducting these educational activities in 20 schools across the city via mixed-method data collections. The authors approached issues and created that solution from the perspective of practical school leadership and management, due to the fact that most of the recent studies about social skills education focused on concepts and assessment of social skills, or educational practices to deliver and train these skills to students. Based on the concrete theories about the correlation between school leadership and educational effectiveness, as well as the strengths and drawbacks of targeted schools and Vietnamese education, the managerial solution proposed is diversifying thematic organizations and extracurricular activities about social skills for students.
MEASURING ATTRIBUTES AND BEHAVIOURAL PATTERNS OF STREET LIVELINESS IN URBAN AREA
Authors: Sulaiman Normah , Abdullah Yusfida Ayu , Raja Othman Raja Norashekin
Published: November 2021

Streets are essential elements of the form and function of the urban environment. A growing body of research has pointed out that the more human activities in the street, the more interesting the city will be. Streets showcase the community and connect people. They are the most comfortable social environments that provide aesthetical and interactional pleasure for everyone. This paper presents the outcomes of a study which measured street liveliness based on the attributes and behaviours of the pedestrians. The aim of this study was to examine how people experience the liveliness at various times for various activities on the street. To achieve this, the study applied a case study method by looking at one of the streets that showed a diversity of activities with a unique shopping experience and liveliness in Kuala Lumpur called Jalan Masjid India. The method involved two types of data collection techniques, which were site observations, and pedestrian counts. Results which consisted of behavioural mapping and activity analysis revealed that Jalan Masjid India has its own merits in terms of street liveliness, function, and urban activities.
Smart Assistive Technology for Cooking for People With Cognitive Impairments Following a Traumatic Brain Injury: User Experience Study
Authors: Gagnon-Roy Mireille , Pinard Stéphanie , Bottari Carolina , Le Morellec Fanny , Laliberté Catherine , Ben Lagha Rym , Yaddaden Amel , Pigot Hélène , Giroux Sylvain , Bier Nathalie
Published: November 2021

Background

User experience (UX), including usability, should be formally assessed multiple times throughout the development process to optimize the acceptability and integration of a new technology before implementing it within the home environment of people living with cognitive impairments.

Objective

The aim of this study is to identify UX issues, notably usability issues, and factors to consider for the future implementation of the COOK (Cognitive Orthosis for Cooking) within the home of individuals with traumatic brain injury (TBI) to identify modifications to improve the technology.

Methods

This study comprised two rounds of UX evaluations, including extensive usability testing, which were completed in a laboratory context: 3 sessions with 5 experts and, after improvement of COOK, 2 sessions with 10 participants with TBI. Each session included the use of scenarios and questionnaires on UX and usability.

Results

Both rounds demonstrated good usability outcomes and hedonic qualities. Various usability issues were identified by participants, such as navigation inconsistencies, technical bugs, and the need for more feedback. Factors to consider in the future implementation of COOK were also mentioned by participants with TBI, including environmental (eg, space available and presence of pets) and personal factors (eg, level of comfort with technology, presence of visual deficits, and preferences).

Conclusions

By evaluating UX, including usability, various times throughout the development process and including experts and end users, our research team was able to develop a technology that was perceived as usable, pleasant, and well-designed. This research is an example of how and when people with cognitive impairments (ie, people with TBI) can be involved in evaluating the UX of new technology.
Mechanisms of Change in Digital Health Interventions for Mental Disorders in Youth: Systematic Review
Authors: Domhardt Matthias , Engler Sophie , Nowak Hannah , Lutsch Arne , Baumel Amit , Baumeister Harald
Published: November 2021

Background

Digital health interventions (DHIs) are efficacious for several mental disorders in youth; however, integrated, evidence-based knowledge about the mechanisms of change in these interventions is lacking.

Objective

This systematic review aims to comprehensively evaluate studies on mediators and mechanisms of change in different DHIs for common mental disorders in children and adolescents.

Methods

A systematic literature search of the electronic databases Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Embase, MEDLINE, and PsycINFO was conducted, complemented by backward and forward searches. Two independent reviewers selected studies for inclusion, extracted the data, and rated the methodological quality of eligible studies (ie, risk of bias and 8 quality criteria for process research).

Results

A total of 25 studies that have evaluated 39 potential mediators were included in this review. Cognitive mediators were the largest group of examined intervening variables, followed by a broad range of emotional and affective, interpersonal, parenting behavior, and other mediators. The mediator categories with the highest percentages of significant intervening variables were the groups of affective mediators (4/4, 100%) and combined cognitive mediators (13/19, 68%). Although more than three-quarters of the eligible studies met 5 or more quality criteria, causal conclusions have been widely precluded.

Conclusions

The findings of this review might guide the empirically informed advancement of DHIs, contributing to improved intervention outcomes, and the discussion of methodological recommendations for process research might facilitate mediation studies with more pertinent designs, allowing for conclusions with higher causal certainty in the future.
Nanomaterials: An alternative approach for Prevention and diagnosis of the emerging COVID-19 (Preprint)
Authors: Shahbaz Areej , Farooq Sabar Muhammad , Ahmed Muhammad , Awais Muhammad
Published: November 2021

UNSTRUCTURED

Coronavirus has evolved from the severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS-CoV-2) family known to create an illness in 2019 named as COVID-19 illness which is pervasive as the greatest menace to mankind. This pandemic is not only a health crisis but a socio-economic crisis that is hitting the world. Because it is causing stress in the nations it affects, and because it has the potential to have severe economic, political and social consequences with long-term consequences. Government bodies, researchers and scientists are working day and night to come up with ways, treatments and vaccines to combat COVID-19. Recent studies have led the researchers to pay attention and make good use of nanomaterials to help them fight against the global pandemic of COVID-19. Graphene and the graphene related materials have fascinating properties like antiviral, optical, antimicrobial, physiochemical, and many other extraordinary properties that make them a contender for the formation and design of high-tech devices and devices that can be used to combat infection during the COVD-19 pandemic and for other future uses. Due to its highly helpful qualities in the eradication of viruses, graphene and its composites can be utilized in the creation of diagnostic tests as well as in therapies. As a result, using graphite nanoparticles in biomedical applications is a viable strategy for limiting viral pandemics at the local, national, and international levels. Graphical representation of this article is given in Figure 1
Author’s Response to Peer Reviews of “Comparison Between Male and Female Survivors of Sexual Abuse and Assault in Relation to Age at Admission to Therapy, Age of Onset, and Age at Last Sexual Assault: Retrospective Observational Study” (Preprint)
Authors: AL-Asadi Ali M
Published: November 2021

UNSTRUCTURED

These are author responses to peer review.
Gender Differences and Associated Factors Influencing Problem Gambling in Adolescents in Sweden: Cross-sectional Investigation (Preprint)
Authors: Claesdotter-Knutsson Emma , André Frida , Fridh Maria , Delfin Carl , Håkansson Anders , Lindström Martin
Published: November 2021

BACKGROUND

Although gambling disorder is traditionally considered an adult phenomenon, the behavior usually begins in childhood or adolescence.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to explore the frequency of problem gambling among Swedish adolescents and the suspected associated factors.

METHODS

This study was based on data collected through a public health survey distributed in 2016 to pupils in ninth grade of primary school and in second grade of secondary school in Sweden. Bayesian binomial regression models, with weakly informative priors, were used to examine whether the frequency of the associated factors differed between those with and without problem gambling.

RESULTS

Approximately 11.7% (469/4002) of the boys in ninth grade of primary school and 13.9% (472/3407) of the boys in second grade of secondary school were classified as problem gamblers. For girls, the corresponding frequencies were 1.2% (48/4167) and 0.7% (27/3634), respectively. The overall response rate was 77% (9143/11,868) among ninth grade pupils and 73.4% (7949/10,832) among second grade pupils, resulting in a total of 17,092 responses. Problem gambling was associated with poor sleep and having tried smoking, alcohol, and other substances among both boys and girls in ninth grade of primary school and boys in second grade of secondary school. Problem gambling among girls in second grade of secondary school was associated with an increased prevalence of having tried smoking and other substances and an increased prevalence of poor sleep.

CONCLUSIONS

Using a large representative sample of Swedish adolescents, we found that problem gambling was robustly associated with a substantially increased prevalence of poor sleep and having tried smoking, alcohol, and other substances among both boys and girls in ninth grade of primary school as well as among boys in second grade of secondary school. Our study adds important information for policy makers pointing at vulnerable groups to be considered in their work to prevent problem gambling.
Morphological and morphometric changes of bone tissue in patients with osteoporosis and osteomalation
Authors: Ignatiev O.M. , Turchyn M.I. , Ulianov V.A. , Yermolenko T.A.
Published: November 2021

Bone tissue was studied in 56 postmenopausal women (mean age 62.30 ± 2.74 years), of which 46 patients who worked in unfavorable working conditions had a decreased bone mineral density (BMD) (osteoporosis (OP) — in 31 women, osteomalacia (OM) — in 13); 10 women had no metabolic changes in bone tissue (BT). A BT scan fragment was obtained during surgery for a fracture of the femoral neck. Non-decalcified QD sections were prepared, the functional activity of the QD cell nuclei was determined using the method of differential staining of nuclei with different functional activity. Morphological changes in OP and OM have both common features and differences. The common is the thinning of the bone rods, the expansion of the canals of osteons, the presence of cell-free areas, and cell-free lacunae. In contrast to OP, OM presents with the thickness and area of the osteoid increase, a less pronounced decrease in oxyphyllin matrix, a higher functional activity of BT cells. A decrease in BMD and the occurrence of low-energy fractures may result not only from OP but also OM. When prescribing treatment, it is necessary to carry out diffe-rential diagnostic measures that determine the cause of the decrease in bone mass.
Simulation of double-leg stance in conditions of limited hip mobility
Authors: Tyazhelov O.A. , Karpinskaya E.D. , Yurchenko D.A. , Branitskyi A.Yu.
Published: November 2021

Hip osteoarthritis is one of the most common and disabling conditions affecting the elderly. Coxarthrosis is accompanied by impairment of the amortization properties of cartilage, its thinning and destruction, the appearance of pain syndrome, impaired motor functions due to a decrease in muscle strength and the development of stable flexion-adduction contractures, which change congenital motor programs, and, with a prolonged course of degenerative disease, lead to the formation of pathological habits. Objective: to determine the required strength of the muscles of the lower limb in conditions of limited hip mobility to support an upright posture in double-leg stance. Materials and methods. The work of the muscles of the lower extremities under conditions of restricted hip mobility was simulated using the OpenSim 4.0 software. It is based on the ToyLandingModel, which has contact geometry objects to fix the model on the support area. Four models were created: norm (without limitation of joint mobility), model 2 — adduction of 5°, model 3 — adduction of 7°, flexion of 10°, model 4 — adduction of 10°, flexion of 20°, shortening of the femur bones by 2 cm. Results. It was found that with insignificant adduction contractures of the hip joint, the work of the muscles of the lower limb changes slightly during double-leg stance. With flexion-adduction contractures, changes are observed in almost all muscles of the lower limb. There are some peculiarities in the work of muscles under contractures. All the muscles around the thigh reduce the strength necessary to maintain balance, while the lower leg muscles, on the contrary, increase the required strength several times. For example, m.medial gastrocnemius with flexion-adduction contracture and limb shortening develops10 times higher compensatory force (200 N) than in normal conditions (20 N), and although muscle resources are 1500 N, it is very demanding to maintain an upright posture. Similarly, m.tibialis posterior require an increase in strength (threefold), but the antagonist muscle m.tibialis anterior, on the contrary, reduces the force of contraction by an average of 100 N. Conclusions. According to the data of the conducted modeling of double-leg stance with limited hip mobility, it was proved that an increase in limited movements changes the nature of muscle contraction of the entire lower limb and pelvis. The analysis of the obtained results showed that restriction of movements reduces the required force of muscle stabilization around the hip joint, and increases the required force of contraction of the leg muscles. That is, there is an imbalance in the muscles.