bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Abrogating Oxidative Stress as a Therapeutic Strategy Against Parkinson’s Disease: A Mini Review of the Recent Advances on Natural Therapeutic Antioxidant and Neuroprotective Agents
Authors: Theofanous Thekla , Kourti Malamati
Published: March 2022

Background:

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) play a vital role in cell signaling when maintained at low concentrations. However, when ROS production exceeds the neutralizing capacity of endogenous antioxidants, oxidative stress is observed, which has been shown to contribute to neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson's disease (PD). PD is a progressive disorder characterized by the loss of dopaminergic neurons from the striatum, which leads to motor and nonmotor symptoms. Although the complex interplay of mechanisms responsible is yet to be fully understood, oxidative stress was found to be positively associated with PD. Despite active research, currently proposed regimens mainly focus on regulating dopamine metabolism within the brain, even though these treatments have shown limited long-term efficacy and several side effects. Due to the implication of oxidative stress in the pathophysiology of PD, natural antioxidant compounds have attracted interest as potential therapeutics over the last years, with a more favorable anticipated safety profile due to their natural origin. Therefore, natural antioxidants are currently being explored as promising anti-PD agents.

Objective:

In this mini-review, emphasis was given to presently studied natural antioxidant and neuroprotective agents that have shown positive results in PD animal models.

Methods:

For this purpose, recent scientific articles were reviewed and discussed, with the aim to highlight the most up-to-date advances on PD treatment strategies related to oxidative stress.

Results:

A plethora of natural compounds are actively being explored against PD, including kaemferol, icaritin, artemisinin, and α-bisabolol, with promising results. Most of these compounds have shown adequate neuroprotective ability along with redox balance restoration, normalized mitochondrial function, and limitation of oxidative damage.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, natural antioxidants may be the way forward to novel treatments against PD when the limitations of correct dosing and appropriate combinations are resolved.
Structure-Based Virtual Screening to Identify Negative Allosteric Modulators of NMDA
Authors: Sherwani Zaid Anis , Khalil Ruqaiya , Nur-e-Alam Mohammad , Ahmed Sarfaraz , Ul-Haq Zaheer
Published: March 2022

Background:

NMDA (N-methyl-D-aspartate) receptor is one of the ionotropic receptor subtypes of glutamate, the most abundant excitatory neurotransmitter in the human brain. Besides physiological roles in learning and memory, neuronal plasticity and somatosensory function NMDAR overstimulation are also implicated in a pathophysiological mechanism of ‘excitotoxicity.’ In this study, an allosteric site has been focused on to design inhibitors of the most abundant form of this receptor of utility in many acute (stroke, traumatic brain injury) and chronic neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson’s disease, Huntington’s, Alzheimer’s, and others.

Methods:

In order to target this specific site at the interdimer interface of the ligand-binding domain of GluN2A-containing NMDA-Rs, blood-brain barrier-permeable potentially therapeutic compounds, as opposed to only pharmacological tools currently available, were sought. Pharmacophorebased virtual screening, docking, computational ADME prediction techniques, and MD simulation studies were used.

Results:

Proceeding through the in-silico methodology, the study was successful at reaching 5 compounds from ChEMBL Database, which were predicted to be potential NMDA inhibitor drugs.

Conclusion:

The products of the study are compounds that have been validated through pharmacophore and score-based screening and MD simulation techniques to be allosterically inhibiting NMDA receptors and with favorable pharmacokinetic profiles. They are likely to be therapeutic agents ready for in-vitro and in-vivo testing.
Herbal Phytomedicine ‘Irisolidone’ in Chronic Diseases: Biological
Efficacy and Pharmacological Activity
Authors: Patel Dinesh Kumar
Published: March 2022

Background:

Plant-derived products have been used in medicine as a source of
bioactive molecules, mainly due to their medicinal importance and therapeutic potential.
Nowadays, plant derived products have been used in the medicine for the development of
novel drug leads. Polyphenols are an important class of secondary metabolites found to be
present in plants and their derived products. Polyphenols play an important role in the nutrition
of human beings and also have a significant role in plant resistance against pests and
diseases. Scientific studies have proven the biological importance of flavonoids in medicine
and other allied health sectors. Anti-oxidant, analgesic, anti-microbial, anti-inflammatory,
anti-viral, anti-tumor and anti-allergic activities are the important pharmacological features
of flavonoids. Irisolidone is an important isoflavone found to be present in Pueraria lobata
flowers.

Methods:

To know the medicinal importance and therapeutic potential of irisolidone in the
medicine, numerous scientific research data have been collected from Google, Google
Scholar, PubMed, Science Direct, and Scopus. Pharmacological activity data of irisolidone
has been collected and analyzed in the present works to know their health beneficial aspects
in the medicine. Detailed pharmacological activities of irisolidone have been investigated
through scientific data analysis of scientific research works.

Results:

Scientific research data analysis of irisolidone revealed the anti-inflammatory, antiangiogenic,
anti-cancer, anti-platelet, anti-oxidant, anti-hyperlipidemic, immunomodulating,
hepatoprotective and estrogenic potential. However, the biological effect of irisolidone on
the gastric system, aldose reductase enzymes, malignant gliomas, and JC virus has also been
investigated. Scientific data analysis revealed the significance of analytical tools for the separation
and identification of irisolidone.

Conclusion:

Present work signified the biological importance and therapeutic potential of
irisolidone in medicine.
Overall Sexual Function in Dysmetabolic Obese Men with Low Testosterone
Levels Treated with Clomiphene Citrate
Authors: Pelusi Carla , Bartolomeo Nicola , Lisco Giuseppe , Baccini Margherita , Fanelli Flaminia , De Pergola Giovanni , Triggiani Vincenzo , Pagotto Uberto , Giagulli Vito Angelo
Published: March 2022

Background:

Sexual disorders are the most common clinical manifestations of hypogonadism. Functional hypogonadism is the most frequent form, and clomiphene citrate (CC) has been recently introduced as a possible off-label therapeutic option for these patients.

Objective:

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of CC on the overall sexual function in dysmetabolic obese men with low testosterone (T) levels.

Methods:

This was a sub-study of a randomized, double-blind, cross-over, placebo-controlled trial that included twenty-four obese or overweight subjects with impaired glucose tolerance or type 2 diabetes and confirmed low total T (≤10.4 nmol/l) levels. Subjects were treated with CC or placebo (Plac) for 12 weeks, with an interval wash-out period of 6 weeks between treatments. All subjects were on metformin 2gr/day and a low-calorie diet. The between-treatment difference in the overall sexual function was assessed by IIEF-15 and a qADAM questionnaire.

Results:

IIEF-15 and qADAM questionnaire data were available for 18 individuals. In unadjusted analyses, CC was associated with lower IIEF-15 total, erectile function, and intercourse satisfaction domain scores than Plac. After adjustments for multiple variables, CC was associated with a higher IIEF-15 sexual desire domain score (+0.9 ± 0.8; p<.001) despite a lower qADAM score (-2.1 ± 0.9; p=.008) with respect to Plac. No differences were found for the other domains between groups.

Discussion:

The clinical significance of the absolute changes in IIEF-15 and qADAM scores during CC versus Plac is limited. However, CC has a reliable effect on sexual desire and is also as safe as Plac. According to the sample size, duration of follow-up, and inclusion criteria defined for the main study, further studies are therefore needed to assess the long-term efficacy of CC.

Conclusion:

Compared to Plac, CC was found to be associated with a neutral effect on overall sexual function.
Contribution of Glutathione-S-Transferases Polymorphism and Risk of
Coronary Artery Diseases: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Sobha Santhi Priya , Kesavarao Kumar Ebenezar
Published: March 2022

Background:

Oxidative stress is one of the risk components in the development of coronary
artery diseases (CAD). Genetic polymorphism in major antioxidant genes like Glutathione-
S-Transferases (GST) has been associated with increased CAD susceptibility and severity.

Objective:

To get a precise evaluation and to update the association, a meta-analysis on GST
(GSTM1, GSTT1, and GSTP1) polymorphism with CAD was performed. Moreover, the combined
effect of GSTM1/GSTT1 null genotypes on CAD risk has not yet been studied, but it has the highest
risk of developing diseases.

Materials and Method:

PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science were systematically searched for
eligible studies. Case-control studies in the English language and with genotypic frequency were
selected in order to provide data and calculate the odds ratio (OR). OR with 95% CI was calculated,
and a random effect model was used. NOS scale was used to assess the quality of the included
studies.

Results:

Meta-analysis indicated that the GSTM1 null genotype and GSTP1 (Ile105Val) polymorphism
is significantly associated with CAD risk with a pooled OR-1.38, p=0.01 for GSTM1 and
OR-1.19, p=0.04 for GSTP1. The dual null genotype of GSTM1-GSTT1 has the highest risk for
CAD development (OR-1.59, p=0.003), and there is no significant association between GSTT1 null
genotype with CAD. In the subgroup analysis, GSTM1 showed an increased risk for Asians (OR-
1.68, p=<0.01) and smokers (OR-1.98, p=<0.01). Publication bias was not observed.

Conclusion:

The findings suggest that the GSTM1 and GSTP1 polymorphism can be a predictive
factor for CAD risk, and a larger sample size is required further to confirm the association.
Sarcopenia: An Age-Related Multifactorial Disorder
Authors: Priyadarsini Nibedita , Nanda Pranati , Devi Sujata , Mohapatra Subarna
Published: March 2022

Sarcopenia is a disease characterized by a gradual decline in skeletal muscle mass and
strength that accompanies the normal aging process. The disease is associated with various adverse
health outcomes in the geriatric population, such as prolonged hospital admission, disability, poor
quality of life, frailty, and mortality. Factors involved in the development of age-related sarcopenia
include anorexia, hormone level alterations, decreased neural innervation, low muscular blood
flow, cytokine dysregulation, altered mitochondrial activity, genomic instability, intracellular proteolysis,
and insulin resistance. Understanding the underlying mechanisms may facilitate the development
of efficient prophylactic and therapeutic strategies to improve the quality of life in elderly
individuals. Thus, the present review highlights literature regarding the mechanism of sarcopenia
development in elderly patients.
Loneliness as Risk Factor for Alzheimer´s disease
Authors: Ávila-Villanueva Marina , Gómez-Ramírez Jaime , Ávila Jesús , Fernández-Blázquez Miguel A.
Published: March 2022

There is considerable empirical evidence that unequivocally points to loneliness as a
modifiable risk factor for the development of Alzheimer's disease and other related dementias. With
the emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic and the resulting lockdown and social distancing, there
has been a renewed interest in studying this topic. The present review examines the links between
loneliness and Alzheimer's disease, with particular emphasis on the mechanisms common to both
conditions.
Sleep Quality and Quality of Life Among Older Adults During COVID-19
Pandemic: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Abdalla Pedro Pugliesi , Neto Elzier Sampaio de Queiroz , de Souza Lage Ana Carolina Silveira , Gomes Sérgio , de Freitas Maria das Dores Bezerra , Pedro-Costa Simão , Machado Dalmo Roberto Lopes , Oliveira José , Mota Jorge , Bohn Lucimere
Published: March 2022

Background:

Although home confinement reduces the number of SARS-CoV-2 infections,
it may negatively impact the psychological and physical health of older adults.

Objective:

The present study attempted to describe the quality of life (QoL) of older adults before
and during the COVID-19 outbreak, focusing on evaluating QoL, physical activity, sitting time,
and sleep quality during home confinement.

Method:

The present study was conducted in 1,063 older adults (91 % females) enrolled in a Brazilian
social program. They were interviewed for QoL (EQ-5D), physical activity (international
physical activity questionnaire-short), and sleep quality [Pittsburgh sleep quality index (PSQI)] after
11.6 ± 2.4 weeks of confinement. Logistic regression confirmed changes in QoL.

Results:

The QoL (86.5 ± 14.7) decreased significantly during confinement (66.0 ± 21.0; P <
0.001), whereas the PSQI global score was 6.8 ± 3.9 points. Older adults spent 18.7 ± 29.8 min/day
in moderate to vigorous physical activity, whereas they spent 325.5 ± 144.4 min/day sitting. The
PSQI global score [odds ratio (OR): 1.10], sitting time (OR: 1.001), and diseases (OR: 1.23) were
significantly associated with low QoL (P < 0.05).

Conclusion:

Confinement has a deleterious effect on QoL, which is influenced by quality of sleep,
sitting time, and disease. Awareness regarding the significance of sleep and physical exercise in
older adults can mitigate the damage to their health during confinement.
Pemberdayaan pengrajin tenun
Authors: Putridiani Siti Ativa , Suryono Yoyon
Published: March 2022

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mendeskripsikan pemberdayaan masyarakat, inovasi dalam membuat kerajinan tenun, dan faktor-faktor pendukung serta penghambat keberhasilan pemberdayaan masyarakat sentra kerajinan tenun di Desa Wisata Gamplong. Jenis penelitian adalah penelitian kualitatif metode studi kasus. Sumber data yang diteliti adalah ketua paguyuban “TEGAR”, pengelola rumah kerajinan, dan pengrajin tenun. Pengumpulan data melalui wawancara, observasi serta dokumentasi. Analisis data dilakukan dengan pengumpulan data, reduksi data, penyajian data, dan kesimpulan. Instrumen yang digunakan adalah pedoman wawancara, pedoman observasi, dan dokumentasi. Keabsahan data dilakukan dengan triangulasi data, sumber dan teknik. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa proses pemberdayaan pengrajin tenun di Sentra Kerajinan desa wisata Gamplong yaitu melakukan pelatihan, melakukan pendampingan, dan evaluasi. Inovasi yang dilakukan yaitu inovasi produk yang menghasilkan design unik dan baru untuk diaplikasikan pada kerajinan tenun. Faktor pendukungnya ialah adanya event-event, potensi alam, kerajinan tenun, dan ATBM. Sedangkan faktor penghambat yaitu minimnya dukungan dari masyarakat, generasi penerus dan persaingan harga Empowerment of weaving craftsmen AbstractThis study aims to describe the process of community empowerment, innovation in making woven crafts, and supporting factors and obstacles to the success of community empowerment of weaving craft centers in Gamplong Tourism Village. This type of research is a qualitative research case study method. The data sources studied were "TEGAR" community leaders, managers of craft houses, and weaving craftsmen. Data collection through interviews, observation and documentation. Data analysis with data collected, data reduction, data presentation, and conclusions. The instruments used are interview guides, observation guidelines, and documentation. The validity of the data is done with triangulation of data, sources and techniques. The results of the study show that the process of empowering weaving craftsmen in the Gamplong tourism village Craft Center is conducting training, providing assistance, and evaluating. The innovation that is done is product innovation that produces a unique and new design to be applied to weaving crafts. The supporting factors are the existence of events, natural potential, weaving crafts, and ATBM. While the inhibiting factors are the lack of support from the community, future generations and price competition.
Pencapaian pemahaman orang tua dalam membimbing tata krama anak autis
Authors: Swandari Dian Ngesti , Mumpuniarti Mumpuniarti
Published: March 2022

Tata krama merupakan bagian dari keterampilan sosial yang mengajarkan sikap baik dalam pergaulan dari segi bahasa maupun tingkah laku. Tata krama perlu diperkenalkan pada anak autis agar mereka dapat membedakan perilaku baik dan perilaku yang kurang tepat untuk dilakukan. Orang tua memegang peranan penting dalam membimbing tata krama anak autis. Oleh karena itu diupayakan agar orang tua memahami cara untuk mendampingi dan membimbing tata krama anak autis. Salah satu cara yang efektif dalam pendampingan latihan tata krama anak autis adalah dengan pembelajaran observasional, di mana orang tua berperan sebagai model atau contoh yang akan ditiru oleh anak autis. Adapun tujuan dari latihan tata krama dengan pembelajaran observasional ini adalah agar anak berlatih tata krama dengan melihat orang tua sebagai model kemudian anak berlatih tata krama berdasar apa yang dilihatnya pada orang tua. Jadi orang tua memiliki peran ganda yaitu sebagai model dan pendamping latihan sehingga orang tua dapat memahami fungsi dari peran orang tua anak autis. Metode yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini adalah penelitian tindakan yang melibatkan semua pihak secara langsung dan dimaksudkan untuk meningkatkan keterampilan pada semua pihak yang terlibat. The achievement of parents comprehension in guiding autism children manners AbstractManners are parts of social skills that teach good attitude in association in terms of language and behaviour. Manners need to be introduced to autistic children so that they can distinguish between good behaviour and inappropriate behaviour to do. Parents play an important role in guiding the manners of autistic children. Therefore efforts are made so that parents understand how to assist and guide the behaviour of autistic children. One effective way of mentoring autism practices for children with autism is observational learning, where parents act as models or examples that will be imitated by autistic children. The aim of this observational learning is that children can practice manners by seeing their parents as models and at the end, they can apply what they see from their parents. Therefore, parents have two roles, that are as a model and a training companion so that parents can understand the role function of parents of children with autism. The method used in this research is action research that involves all parties directly and intended to improve the skills of all parties involved.
Portrait Analysis of Early Childhood Education in Cities and Villages: The COVID-19 Pandemic Era
Authors: Masruroh Lely , Munastiwi Erni
Published: March 2022

Abstract: The COVID-19 pandemic has affected significant aspects of our society. In addition to degrading the economic system and human health throughout the world, it disrupts educational activities running in general. With the government's policy of having to stay home, education is diversion through online learning. Online learning is applied to school institutions throughout Indonesia, both in the village and in the city. Network access and facilities in urban areas are better than in rural areas. This research is essential to be conducted as input to equalize online learning support facilities in the ponorogo area of east Java. The method in this study uses qualitative with library studies and at the same time research in the field. Data retrieval using interview and journal analysis techniques after related books. The results of the study suggest that online learning conducted in the city tends to be more effective because of the ease of easy-to-diakse facilities and the full support of parents. Meanwhile, in the village online learning is less effective due to the lack of adequate facilities and lack of support from parents.Analisis Potret Pendidikan Anak Usia Dini di Kota dan Desa: Era Pandemi COVID-19Abstrak: Pandemi COVID-19 telah mempengaruhi aspek-aspek penting dari masyarakat kita. Selain merusak sistem ekonomi dan kesehatan manusia di seluruh dunia, mengganggu kegiatan pendidikan yang berjalan secara umum. Dengan adanya kebijakan pemerintah untuk tetap di rumah, pendidikan menjadi pengalihan melalui pembelajaran online. Pembelajaran online diterapkan pada institusi sekolah di seluruh Indonesia, baik di desa maupun di kota. Akses jaringan dan fasilitas di perkotaan lebih baik daripada di pedesaan. Penelitian ini penting dilakukan sebagai masukan untuk pemerataan fasilitas penunjang pembelajaran online di wilayah ponorogo Jawa Timur. Metode dalam penelitian ini menggunakan kualitatif dengan studi kepustakaan dan sekaligus penelitian di lapangan. Pengambilan data menggunakan teknik wawancara dan analisis jurnal setelah buku terkait. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa pembelajaran online yang dilakukan di kota cenderung lebih efektif karena kemudahan fasilitas yang mudah diakse dan dukungan penuh dari orang tua. Sedangkan di desa pembelajaran online kurang efektif karena fasilitas yang kurang memadai dan kurangnya dukungan dari orang tua.
Virtual Learning in English Course at LKP Mahesa Institute Kampung Inggris Pare Kediri
Authors: Yulianingsih Wiwin , Soedjarwo Soedjarwo , Nugroho Rivo , Roesminingsih Maria Veronica , Widyaswari Monica
Published: March 2022

This study aims at describing virtual learning in English courses at LKP Mahesa Institute Kampung English Pare Kediri. This study employs a quantitative research design. The population and sample included 100 people with the ones taking courses at LKP Mahesa Institute Kampung Inggris Pare Kediri as the research subjects. The sampling technique used in this research is total sampling. The data were analysed using descriptive statistics in the form of percentages. The overall research results show that virtual learning with the approach of creating and sharing interactive content in English courses is categorized good with a percentage of 78.42%. These results are supported by the suitability of the results in each of the sub-variables, namely teaching quality, teaching level, incentive, and time. In this case, virtual learning with the approach of creating and sharing interactive content in English courses is quite effective. Therefore, this learning system is expected to be one of the new approaches that can be applied in English courses, especially during the Covid-19 pandemic which applies distance learning.
Formación inicial y carrera docente en América Latina: una mirada global y regional
Authors: Vaillant Denise , Manso Jesús
Published: March 2022

El presente ensayo teórico surge de una revisión sistemática de la literatura realizada por los autores a partir de las referencias recientes. Tiene por finalidad contribuir a la reflexión y a un diálogo informado acerca de la carrera y la formación de docentes en América Latina a la luz de las tendencias internacionales. Se ofrece, en primer lugar, una revisión sistemática sobre las tendencias y los distintos aspectos que caracterizan las carreras docentes a nivel global. Se parte de la premisa de que la formación docente no puede analizarse de manera aislada, sino que debe estudiarse a partir del escenario en el cual se construye. En una segunda instancia, se centra la mirada en los aspectos más directamente vinculados con la preparación de maestros y profesores en la región. Finalmente, se presentan una serie de sugerencias que permitirían la mejora de la formación en el contexto más amplio de la transformación de las carreras docentes en América Latina.
Innovación disruptiva y Nueva Identidad Docente Modelo AIE-UCA de formación por aptitudes
Authors: Peregalli Andrés , Rodríguez Hernan
Published: March 2022

La profesionalización docente requiere de una transformación innovadora en la formación inicial que reformule la identidad y supere una formación academicista propiciando un aprendizaje multidimensional y situado. Este artículo describe los resultados del modelo innovador de formación docente inicial AIE-UCA (Aprendizaje Inclusivo y Efectivo-Universidad Católica Argentina), desarrollado para superar las limitaciones de los modelos tradicionales. A tales efectos desarrolla el concepto de innovación, las condiciones institucionales que posibilitan su realización y las características que conforman el desarrollo de la profesionalidad (nueva identidad). Se realiza un análisis ex post facto mediante una metodología mixta sustentada en gran medida en el análisis cualitativo de contenido de desempeños de estudiantes durante los primeros cuatro años de despliegue de la experiencia. Los resultados evidencian una formación inicial innovadora en la cual los futuros educadores desarrollan conscientemente capacidades profesionales que integran conocimientos disciplinares, experiencia práctica y posicionamiento ético-político. También aportan evidencias sobre las transformaciones organizacionales que posibilitaron una experiencia innovadora inclusiva y efectiva, con indicadores alentadores de eficiencia interna y de reducción sustantiva de la brecha educativa entre los estudiantes que forman parte de la experiencia.
Door Access Control Using RFID and Voice Recognition System
Authors: C. S. Okafor , S. U. Nnebe , T. L. Alumona , V. C. Onuzuluike , U. C. Jideofor
Published: March 2022

Abstract: Security is one of the major challenges faced by individuals, organizations, and the world at large. The evolution of technology assists in solving this menace of insecurity and with the continuous growth in technology; several techniques have been used in tackling this problem of insecurity, starting from traditional systems like the door locks with handles to automated doors. In recent times, most of these doors lock security systems are based on microcontrollers, GSM, GPS, sensors, biometrics like eye scanner, fingerprint, face recognition, password, etc., and each of these techniques has its advantages and disadvantages. The developed system involves the design of a prototype door access control system that will control the access of personnel to a location/office using voice recognition and Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) authentication techniques. The system at first detects the movement of a person and prompts the person for verification. If verified either by voice or by RFID, the door automatically opens and closes after 5 seconds. The aim of this developed system is to restrict the access of an office/location using Radio Frequency Identification and voice recognition authentication, thus offering security to the lives and properties of people. Keywords: Biometrics, Radio Frequency Identification (RFID), LCD, Arduino, GPS, GSM
A Review on the Analysis of Building with Different Types of Bracings
Authors: Goswami Nandona
Published: March 2022

Abstract: Bracing is one of the most extensively used lateral load resisting systems in multi-storied frame structure. It helps in reducing structure damage or collapse during an earthquake. To know the responses of providing bracings in high rise buildings is the aim of this study. Hence, it is necessary to demonstrate work on the analysis, design and post effects of bracings when seismic forces act in a building. In this paper, a review is taken out over the analysis and design of buildings with and without bracings to study more detail analytical results and conclusions to find its effectiveness in reducing the impact of lateral loads on high rise buildings in case of an earthquake. Keywords: earthquake, bracings, ETABS, SAP2000, StaadPro
Epidemiology of carbapenem resistance Enterobacterales in Saudi Arabia: A systematic review
Authors: Abou-assy Rawan S. , Aly Magda M. , Amashah Reda H. , Jastaniah Samyah D. , Al Deen Hany M.
Published: March 2022

The widespread of multidrug-resistant bacteria, particularly carbapenem-resistant Enterobacterales (CRE) bacteria, constitutes a major public health threat worldwide, owing to the limited therapeutic options. This review will describe and uncover the Saudi experience in the challenge against carbapenem resistance (CR). The different carbapenem resistance prevalence and carbapenemase genes detected from various bacterial species were mapped for Saudi regional distribution, based on Saudi published data during a period extended from 2017 to 2021. However, VIM, IMP, and KPC enzymes were usually reported with the predominance of OXA and NDM among Enterobacterales. Although SIM and GIM carbapenemases were uncommonly detected in our country. Collaborative efforts and raising awareness of the threat of carbapenem resistance are required to minimize the spread of multidrug-resistant bacteria.
Evaluation of Ergonomic Conditions using Fuzzy Logic in a Metal Processing Plant
Authors: CAYMAZ Tuğçe , ÇALIŞKAN Sümeyye , BOTSALI Ahmet Reha
Published: March 2022

Ergonomic conditions of workplace settings is important for the performance of companies. Especially in the manufacturing industry, the employees are required to have convenient workplace conditions. If this is not the case, it is most likely to have a decrease in work efficiency, increase in workload, and negative impacts on employee health. In this study, we evaluate two ergonomic conditions, illumination and noise level, in different departments of a metal processing plant, to find the initial department to work on the improvement of ergonomic conditions. The evaluation of ergonomic conditions is done through a fuzzification process. The quantitative measurement results of illumination and noise level are fuzzified by Mamdani method. The fuzzified measurement values are scored with respect to specified interval lengths. As a result of this scoring process, ergonomically the worst conditioned department is found to start the improvement process.
Application of pre-medicated collagen sponges with regenerative biomaterials for management of an infected extraction socket
Authors: Sayed Mohammed E.
Published: March 2022

Localized infection of the extraction socket can compromise bone quality
and quantity within the socket and bone support for the adjacent
dentition, precluding immediate rehabilitative interventions. The use of
local scaffolds containing effective antimicrobial agents may help to
control infection for successful regeneration and implant placement.
Fine needle aspiration cytology diagnosis of Aspergilloma -- A case report.
Authors: Ghartimagar Dilasma , Shrestha Manish , Ghosh Arnab , Upreti Dipesh
Published: March 2022

Fine needle aspiration cytology, a simple and inexpensive technique can
aid in early diagnosis of aspergilloma. Here, we present a case of 55
years old female with a past history of tuberculosis. Fine needle
aspiration cytology of the right lung cavitary lesion was performed
which confirmed the diagnosis of aspergilloma.
A Rare Coincidence of Turner syndrome and Bronchiectasis: Case Report
Authors: Almoshantaf Mohammad , Swed Sarya , Ezzdean Weaam , Kashkash Fateh , Ghaith Hazem , Sawaf Bisher , Motawea Karam
Published: March 2022

A Rare Coincidence of Turner syndrome and Bronchiectasis: Case Report
THE APPLICATION OF MACHINE VISION TO CALCULATE THE SIZE OF DEFECTS DURING LUMINESCENT PENETRANT INSPECTION OF GAS TURBINE BLADES
Authors: KORNEYCHUK VALERY S. , KOTLYAR DMITRY I. , LOMANOV ALEXEY N. , MEDVEDEV EVGENY YU.
Published: March 2022

The authors consider development of a method to automatically determine the size of defects on the surface of a gas turbine engine (GTE) blade during fluorescent penetrant inspection applying computer vision. The article discusses the main approaches to scanning the surface of a GTE blade, a method to search luminescence on the surface of a GTE blade, as well as a method to calculate the size and position of a defect on the surface of a GTE blade.
EFL Teachers’ Work Tasks Motivation towards Class Preparation, Teaching, and Evaluation of Students
Authors: Erarslan Ali , Asmalı Mehmet
Published: March 2022

Introduction: Motivation plays a central role in teachers’ instructional practices. Teaching quality and teacher effectiveness contribute positively to student achievement. In line with this, teachers face several tasks in their profession, and they exhibit various motivational levels consisting of different motivational constructs, such as intrinsic, introjected, identified, external motivation, and amotivation. Therefore, this study aims at revealing Turkish EFL teachers’ motivations towards the work tasks of class preparation, teaching, and evaluation of students, which all teachers have to conduct in their profession.

Methods: To collect data, Work Tasks Motivation Scale for Teachers was used. The sample consisted of 1786 EFL teachers teaching throughout Turkey in all types of schools and locations across seven geographical regions.

Results: The quantitative data revealed that motivational constructs vary according to the work tasks of class preparation, teaching, and evaluation of students indicating that teacher motivation has a multifaceted nature and is a non-uniform construct.

Discussion: The results indicated that Turkish EFL teachers did not value the task of classroom preparation, while the task of evaluation of students seemed to be valued. Gender-based differences also indicated that female teachers had higher amotivation and external regulation levels towards classroom preparation and teaching despite their higher levels of intrinsic motivation towards evaluation of students. In addition, considering age variable, the younger group of EFL teachers were found to be more intrinsically motivated towards teaching and evaluation of students compared to the older groups while being more amotivated towards the task of classroom preparation.

Limitations: Despite the high number of the participants, the findings of the study are limited to the analyses of quantitative data as the main source.

Conclusions: The findings of the study indicated that EFL teachers working in all regions and cities of Turkey demonstrated high levels of a) amotivation towards classroom preparation, b) introjected regulation towards teaching, and c) intrinsic motivation towards evaluation of students. Moreover, EFL teachers’ work task motivations displayed variations based on their gender, their age, the location and the type of their school. Further research could investigate potential reasons for the differences in EFL teachers’ motivation levels while further increasing the reliability of the results by integrating qualitative data through interviews, observations, or teacher diaries.
The Effectiveness of Mindfulness-Based Thriving Programs on High School Students’ Perceived Stress, Mindfulness, Thriving and Self-Efficacy Levels
Authors: Özcan Neslihan Arıcı
Published: March 2022

Introduction: Adolescence is a period of rapid change marked by increased stress levels. Individuals with high self-efficacy better alleviate the effects of the stress of this period by exerting conscious control over their own thoughts, behaviours and feelings – a trait strongly associated with mindfulness. In this regard, the concept of mindfulness-based self-efficacy has been a much-researched area in recent students. Mindfulness practices ensure individuals with vitality and energy since they learn to become more open and engaged. In this respect, mindfulness is associated with thriving. This experimental research investigates the effects of the Mindfulness-Based Thriving Program (MTP) on high school students’ perceived stress, mindfulness, thriving and self-efficacy levels.

Methods: The study was conducted with 17 randomly assigned, female 11th grade students (X̄=16.62 for experimental group, X̄=16.77 for control group), who acquired educational support in Uskudar Municipality Youth Academy in the 2019-2020 academic year. The inclusion criteria included scoring highly on the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) and scoring lowly on the Mindfulness Attention Awareness Scale (MAAS), Thriving Scale (TS) and Self-Efficacy Scale (GSES) in a pre-test assessment. The experimental group (n=8) received a six-session MTP intervention developed by the researcher, while the control group (n=9) received no intervention. To determine the immediate and long-term effects of the MTP, all participants completed post-tests (PSS, MAAS, TS, GSES) two months after the program.

Results: The 6-week MTP applied to adolescents was significantly effective in decreasing perceived stress and increasing mindfulness, thriving and self-efficacy levels.

Discussion: All findings were supported by the relevant literature and recommendations on their possible application have been given.

Limitations: Scores obtained from the scales, the narrow range of the sample (only 11th grade female students), the lack of a placebo group to support reliability and the lack of a comparable program for the current one all indicated the limitations of the study.

Conclusions: The 6-week MTP applied to adolescents showed the effectiveness in decreasing perceived stress and increasing mindfulness, thriving and self-efficacy levels. In this regard, thriving and mindfulness together have an important role in the development of self-efficacy and in decreasing perceived stress during adolescence. Thus, all these conclusions highlight the potential contribution of eclectic mindfulness practices for adolescence.
Organizational Justice, Perceived Stress and Leader Support as Predictors of Teachers’ Job Satisfaction
Authors: Çelik Hayriye Reyhan , Kalkan Ömür Kaya
Published: March 2022

Introduction: Teachers’ job satisfaction which has a positive effect on the quality of education, students, teachers and schools is significant for the successful functioning of schools. On the other hand, the increase in the level of dissatisfaction causes disciplinary problems, inefficiency, job dissatisfaction, alienation from the job, or leaving the job. Therefore, research on teachers’ job satisfaction can help to understand the general and specific aspects of teachers’ job satisfaction, which in turn this information can provide a scientific basis for solving problems.

Methods: The study uses quantitative research methodologies based on a correlational research. The research data obtained the convenience sampling method from 396 teachers who work for public schools in the province of Denizli in Turkey. Multiple regression was used for analysis.

Results: The results of the study showed that organizational justice, perceived stress and leadership support are all significant predictors of teachers’ job satisfaction. The relative importance order of the specified variables in predicting teachers’ job satisfaction is organizational justice, perceived stress and leader support, respectively. Predictor variables account for approximately 50.4% of the total variance in teachers’ job satisfaction.

Discussion: Within the scope of the research, the relationships determined between job satisfaction, organizational justice, perceived stress and leader support are consistent with the results of the research conducted on teachers and other professional groups in the literature. Implications of the study results were discussed in detail.

Limitations: In addition to its contributions to the literature, the research also has some limitations. Basically, correlational research results can be useful to reveal the existing relationships between variables, but it should be emphasized that these relationships are not causal ones. Furthermore, the use of convenience sampling method among non-random sampling methods can be considered as another limitation. However, the consistency of the relationships determined between the variables of the study with the existing literature indicates that the bias due to this limitation is relatively low.

Conclusion: The results of the study indicated that the order of relative importance in educational policies and practices that will take teachers’ job satisfaction into account should be structured as organizational justice, perceived stress and leader support. However, it is thought that holistic approaches that include all variables can be more effective, since variables of organizational justice, perceived stress and leader support are significantly associated with teachers’ job satisfaction.
EFL Teachers’ Sources of Remote Teaching Anxiety: Insights and Implications for EFL Teacher Education
Authors: Akbana Yunus Emre , Dikilitaş Kenan
Published: March 2022

Introduction: This study aims to explore an under-researched issue; namely, remote teaching anxiety.

Methods: This study employed a sequential mixed-methods exploratory design where participants initially reported their remote teaching anxiety sources and then rated each. For the analysis, inductive content analysis and statistical tests were employed.

Results: The content analysis revealed two major themes: digitalisation-related concerns and online pedagogy-related concerns. Statistically significant difference was only found between anxiety sources and online teaching experience but not between gender, age, teaching experience, work setting and anxiety sources.

Discussion: Several studies (Çoklar, Efilti, Şahin, & Akçay, 2016; Hassan et al., 2019) found digitalisation-related concerns causing stress among teachers; however, remote teaching anxiety remains an underexplored construct (Russell, 2020). Although online pedagogy-related concerns were found to cause teaching anxiety in our study, a recent study (Lazarevic & Bentz, 2020) found using technology helpful to decrease anxiety.

Limitations: The data were limited to the views of 96 EFL teachers in the Turkish context.

Conclusion: We can conclude that limited experience with remote teaching can contribute to higher anxiety among EFL teachers. Additionally, this research can contribute to the relevant literature with several implications on the future of language education.
Toxic metals in soil depths from selected abandoned sites: Occurrence, sources, ecological and human health risk
Authors: Emoyan Onoriode Onos , Tesi Godswill Okeoghene , Ohwo Efe , Olisah Chijioke
Published: March 2022

This study provides a comparative assessment of cadmium (Cd), lead (Pb), chromium (Cr), nickel (Ni), copper (Cu), manganese (Mn), zinc (Zn), and iron (Fe) pollution occurrence, sources, and exposure risk in soils from selected abandoned sites. The concentrations of metals were determined using atomic absorption spectrophotometry. The metals occurrence ranged from 0.02 (Zn) to 16600 mg kg−1 (Fe) in the order of subsoil > topsoil with petroleum tank farm and fuel/gas service station exhibiting high metal loading. The sources of metals are anthropogenic and geologic. The hazard index values for infants’ were higher than that of adults, and the inhalation risk for adults’ was considerably higher than for infants’ exposure. The ecological risk of Cd, Pb, Cr, Ni, and Zn falls in the contamination to pollution index. This study revealed the need for clean-up and restoration of abandoned site soils.
An extensive note on various fractional-order type operators and some of their effects to certain holomorphic functions
Authors: Irmak Hüseyin
Published: March 2022

The aim of this paper is to present background information in relation with some fractional-order type operators in the complex plane, which is designed by the fractional-order derivative operator(s). Next we state various implications of that operator and then we show some interesting-special results of those applications.
The Actions Carried Out by the Cyberparc Incubator of Sidi Abdellah During the Period of 2010–2020: State of Play and Perspectives
Authors: Arabeche Zina
Published: March 2022

This paper aims to describe the actions carried out by the Cyber-park incubator of Sidi Abdellah during the period of 2010–2020 in order to support young project holders. The Cyber-park of Sidi Abdellah is the first Algerian experience of creating a technology park. The project is very ambitious; it reflects the Algerian political will to build an information society and accelerate the transition of Algeria to a knowledge economy. However, through our reading of the statistics provided, we can say that the number of project holders affiliated to the incubator of Sidi Abdullah, especially the number of projects accepted, is still far from the objectives presented by the incubator. On the other hand, we have found that the Cyber-park incubator focuses much more on the training of entrepreneurs, while the financial side is totally absent.
The present participle and gender assignment in Swedish
Authors: Skrzypek Dominika
Published: March 2022

The paper considers gender assignment of deverbal nouns, originally present participles, in Swedish. The perspective is diachronic. The corpus consists of a choice of Swedish texts from 1225-1732. The results show that nouns denoting entities ranking higher in the Animacy hierarchy show tendencies to be placed in the utrum gender (originally masculine and feminine genders) and nouns denoting mass, collective or abstract referents to be assigned neuter gender. This tendency is visible throughout the history of the Swedish language.
Mutualism Within a Simulated Microgravity Environment - Piriformospora indica Promotes the Growth of Medicago truncatula
Authors: Hayes Martin W. , Stutte Gary W. , McKeon-Bennett Michelle , Murray Patrick G.
Published: March 2022

The endophytic fungus, Piriformospora indica, developed a subepidermal infection within Medicago truncatula at 1 g and at simulated microgravity over a period of 15 days, resulting in intracellular colonization of mature host tissue. At 1 g, P. indica inoculation affected the growth and morphology of M. truncatula, predominantly roots. Inoculated M. truncatula had a significantly greater number of roots (102%), total root length (88%), and dry root weight (25%) than non-inoculated plants. Effects on shoot morphology of P. indica inoculated M. truncatula included longer (31%) and heavier (30%) shoots, along with increased leaf surface area (98%). P. indica retained the ability to promote the growth of M. truncatula under simulated microgravity conditions upon two dimensional clinostatic rotation, significantly increasing root number by 51% and root length by 48%. These physiological and morphological changes may mitigate biotic and abiotic stresses that would otherwise limit crop productivity.
Relation of Natural Frequencies to Traffic Pedestrians’ Comfort of Some Steel Footbridges
Authors: Cătălin Moga , Delia Drăgan , Raluca Nerișanu
Published: March 2022

In this paper several aspects regarding the dynamic behaviour of the steel footbridge structures under the action of the loads generated by the pedestrians’ displacement, correlated with the traffic comfort of the pedestrians crossing the structure are presented. The crossing pedestrians’ comfort criterion requires the values of vibration frequencies and accelerations of the structures in certain limits so that the vibration amplification or resonance is avoided. The paper takes under investigation eight footbridges on steel, composite steel-concrete girders and a cable stayed structure from the viewpoint of frequencies in vibration Mode 1 in a vertical plane, generated by their own weight - natural frequency, or from a partial pedestrian loading, as well as the resulting resonance risk and the traffic comfort.