bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
“White People Still Come Out on Top”: The Persistence of White Supremacy in Shaping Coloured South Africans’ Perceptions of Racial Hierarchy and Experiences of Racism in Post-Apartheid South Africa
Authors: Pirtle Whitney N. Laster
Published: February 2022

White supremacy shaped both the formation of the South African racial state and the formation of racial groups, including the creation of the Coloured category as mixed and liminal between White and Black. There are, however, debates about the continuing legacy of white supremacy in post-apartheid, contemporary South Africa. This paper joins others in the important task of delineating racial hierarchies within contemporary South African society to help reveal the form of oppression, and the accompanying underlying assumptions and ideologies, such as white supremacy, that allows racial difference and deprivation to remain. In this paper, I analyze semi-structured interview data from 50 “Coloured” adults in order to explore their understanding of white supremacy, the racial hierarchy, and contemporary racism. I find that white supremacy negatively impacts Coloureds’ lived experiences through shaping their experiences of structural and interpersonal discrimination from White South Africans. In addition, Coloured South Africans understand the legacy of white supremacy in shaping contemporary racial hierarchies such that White South Africans “still come out on top.” However, I argue that, at the same time, white supremacy also “colours” or hinders some Coloured respondents’ perceptions of their remaining relative privilege in post-apartheid South Africa. This project contributes by revealing a more complete story about the pervasiveness of contemporary hegemonic, global white supremacy that impacts all aspects of the racial hierarchy, including those mixed or in the middle.
Co-Education/Co-Research Partnership: A Critical Approach to Co-Learning between Dudley Street Neighborhood Initiative and Tufts University
Authors: Loh Penn , Ackerman Zoë , Fidalgo Joceline , Tumposky Rebecca
Published: February 2022

Community–university partnerships that purport to promote the public good are often fraught with institutional and cultural challenges that can contribute to the injustices they seek to address. This paper describes how one partnership has been navigating these tensions through a critical approach to power. The Co-Education/Co-Research (CORE) partnership has been built over the last decade between Tufts University and Dudley Street Neighborhood Initiative, a community organizing and planning group in Boston. We have been co-producing knowledge and action to further community control over development, and we have found that institutional shifts, such as co-governance and the equitable sharing of funding, are leading to longer term impacts for the community partner and breaking down the boundaries between university and community. However, using a relational view of power, we have also found that some of our everyday practices can subtly maintain and reinforce inequities, such as valuing academic knowledge over that of community residents and practitioners. Addressing these cultural and ideological challenges requires critical and reflexive practice. It is messy relational work that requires a lot of communication and trust and, most of all, time and long-term commitment.
Assessing Gender Bias in Particle Physics and Social Science Recommendations for Academic Jobs
Authors: Bernstein Robert H. , Macy Michael W. , Williams Wendy M. , Cameron Christopher J. , Williams-Ceci Sterling Chance , Ceci Stephen J.
Published: February 2022

We investigated gender bias in letters of recommendation as a possible cause of the under-representation of women in Experimental Particle Physics (EPP), where about 15% of faculty are female—well below the 60% level in psychology and sociology. We analyzed 2206 letters in EPP and these two social sciences using standard lexical measures as well as two new measures: author status and an open-ended search for gendered language. In contrast to former studies, women were not depicted as more communal, less agentic, or less standout. Lexical measures revealed few gender differences in either discipline. The open-ended analysis revealed disparities favoring women in social science and men in EPP. However, female EPP candidates were characterized as “brilliant” in nearly three times as many letters as were men.
The Efficacy of Upper-Extremity Elastic Resistance Training on Shoulder Strength and Performance: A Systematic Review
Authors: Seguin Rachel C. , Cudlip Alan C. , Holmes Michael W. R.
Published: February 2022

Elastic resistance exercise is a popular mode of strength training that has demonstrated positive effects on whole-body strength and performance. The purpose of this work was to identify the efficacy of elastic resistance training on improving upper limb strength and performance measures for the shoulder. Seven online databases were searched with a focus on longitudinal studies assessing shoulder elastic training strength interventions. In total, 1367 studies were initially screened for relevancy; 24 full-text articles were included for review. Exercise interventions ranged from 4–12 weeks, assessing pre-/post-strength and performance measures inclusive of isometric and isokinetic strength, 1RM strength, force-velocity tests, and throwing-velocity tests. Significant increases in various isometric strength measures (IR:11–13%, ER:11–42%, FL: 14–36%, EXT: 4–17%, ABD: 8–16%), 1RM strength (~24% in bench press), force-velocities, throwing- and serve-velocities (12%) were all observed. Elastic resistance training elicited positive effects for both strength and performance parameters regardless of intervention duration. Similar significant increases were observed in isometric strength and 1RM strength across durations. Isokinetic strength increases were variable and dependent on the joint velocity conditions. Quantifying the dosage of appropriate exercise prescription for optimal strength and performance gains is inconclusive with this study due to the heterogeneity of the intervention protocols.
Halal Food Sustainability between Certification and Blockchain: A Review
Authors: Bux Christian , Varese Erica , Amicarelli Vera , Lombardi Mariarosaria
Published: February 2022

Islam is the second-largest religion on a global scale. All around the world Muslims are estimated to comprise more than 1.9 billion people. Therefore, the demand for Halal commodities is expected to reach a high growth rate: thus, it is crucial to increase its global market’s reliability and traceability. Based on these grounds, the scope of this paper is to assess Halal food sustainability, examining the barriers and opportunities offered by the certification and blockchain tools. To this purpose, the authors carried out an integrative literature review, selecting 54 contributions in the Web of Science platform. Despite several limitations, such as the lack of a standardized framework or universally accepted and reliable certifying authorities, the implementation of blockchain technology has emerged as an interesting instrument to increase the trustworthiness and traceability of Halal foods. This tool could also help the development of protocols and standard procedures, ensuring hygienic and permitted products that may boost food safety and security. Besides, the enhancement of the Halal certification and the blockchain tool, even if several efforts are required in terms of innovation and cooperation by local authorities, industrial associations and leading consumers, could enhance fair trade, ethical business, green animal breeding and environmental economics, and hence sustainable development.
Ethical Pro-Environmental Self-Identity Practice: The Case of Second-Hand Products
Authors: Arman Saleh Md , Mark-Herbert Cecilia
Published: February 2022

As part of sustainable development, more attention is being placed on consumer behavior. Revised economic models have resulted in an understanding of the need for a circular economy. In this perspective, the consumer is not merely the buyer of the product but also a seller in consumer-to-consumer (C2C) activities, here referred to as re-commerce. In this qualitative study, researchers conducted in-depth interviews of 32 respondents from two countries who had second-hand product trading experience on Facebook. The study uses thematic content analysis to analyze the themes of ethical pro-environmental self-identity (PESI) practices in the respondents’ everyday lives. In this study, challenges relating to understanding conditions for fruitful re-commerce are framed in a social practice theory. Focus is placed on ethical pro-environmental self-identity in the context of selling or buying products in Bangladesh and Sweden. The contributions of this study relate to consumer perspectives on what enables re-commerce for six selected product categories. The study also points to the importance of social media and context-bound differences between product groups as well as individuals in two national contexts.
Economic Assessment of Urban Ash Tree Management Options in New Jersey
Authors: Arbab Nazia , Grabosky Jason , Leopold Richard
Published: February 2022

A cost–benefit analysis (CBA) is an economic approach to estimate the value of alternative programs, policies or management options. Net present value in CBA is one of the standard approaches to value the future benefits of investments. Due to the complexity of urban tree benefits, little is known about how to estimate the monetary value of the ecosystem services that urban trees provide as future benefits. We modeled the economic analyses of emerald ash borer (EAB) (Agrilus planipennis) management scenarios for urban ash trees (Fraxinus spp.) in New Jersey. These scenarios include: (1) no infestation or baseline scenario, (2) infestation with no action, (3) immediate removal and replacement and (4) the treatment of ash trees. The net present value for each management option is calculated using discount rates of 0%, 2% and 5%. The National Tree Benefit Calculator (NTBC) tool is used to quantify the economic value of the ecosystem services provided by the ash trees based on their diameter at breast height (DBH) values. The horizon over which benefits and costs are calculated was set at up to 20 years to estimate the net present value of ash trees that have DBH values of 4 inches. Results from the NPV outputs conclude that across most discount rates, the treatment of ash trees provided greater dollar (USD) values of ecosystem services over time when compared to inaction or the removal and replacement of ash trees. The present research suggests that removing and replacing ash trees is not cost effective at any discount rate due to the high future costs associated with retaining the newly planted trees over a twenty-year time horizon.
Catalytic Performance of Cow-Dung Sludge in Water Treatment Mitigation and Conversion of Ammonia Nitrogen into Nitrate
Authors: Kumar Lokesh , Sharma Jaigopal , Kaur Raminder
Published: February 2022

The present research study was performed to find a solution for the mitigation of ammonia nitrogen in municipally treated sewage effluent (MTSE) using two natural bio-resources. One was composted cow-dung sludge that had catalytic enzymes and nitrifying bacterial mass, and the second was Yucca extract (a desert plant). MTSE samples put in one-liter beakers/jars having initial ammonia nitrogen content of 34.78 mg/L, when treated with 0.0 g/L (control Sample), 1 g/L, 5 g/L (cowdung) and 10 mg/L, 50 mg/L (Yucca extract), respectively, reported depletion of ammonia nitrogen to about 0.00 mg/L ammonia (NH3) as N. It (NH3) transformed to 17.8, 0.18, 0.09, 18.65, and 18.85 mg/L nitrite asN. Ammonia converted to 21.8, 110.1, 133.5, 20.5, 20.8 mg/L nitrate asNO3, respectively. After eight days of treatment, the jar test apparatus reported the results at 35 rounds per minute (RPM) and a temperature of 32 °C. It was found that digested cowdung acted catalytically in eliminating the ammonia nitrogen by converting it to nitrate in a short period of nearly eight days, leading to almost 100% ammonia conversion.
Cell Salvage in Oncological Surgery, Peripartum Haemorrhage and Trauma
Authors: Mora Miquel Lidia , Manrique Muñoz Susana , Maegele Marc
Published: February 2022

Oncological surgery, obstetric haemorrhage and severe trauma are the most challenging conditions for establishing clinical recommendations for the use of cell salvage. When the likelihood of allogeneic transfusion is high, the intraoperative use of this blood-saving technique would be justified, but specific patient selection criteria are needed. The main concerns in the case of oncological surgery are the reinfusion of tumour cells, thereby increasing the risk of metastasis. This threat could be minimized, which may help to rationalize its indication. In severe peripartum haemorrhage, cell salvage has not proven cost-effective, damage control techniques have been developed, and, given the risk of fetomaternal alloimmunization and amniotic fluid embolism, it is increasingly out of use. In trauma, bleeding may originate from multiple sites, coagulopathy may develop, and it should be evaluated whether re-transfusion of autologous blood collected from uncontaminated organ cavities would be feasible. General safety measures include washing recovered blood and its passage through leukocyte depletion filters. To date, no well-defined indications for cell salvage have been established for these pathologies, but with accurate case selection and selective implementation, it could become safe and effective. Randomized clinical trials are urgently needed.
Bubbling, Bistable Limit Cycles and Quasi-Periodic Oscillations in Queues with Delayed Information
Authors: Collera Juancho A.
Published: February 2022

We consider a model describing the length of two queues that incorporates customer choice behavior based on delayed queue length information. The symmetric case, where the values of the time-delay parameter in each queue are the same, was recently studied. It was shown that under some conditions, the stable equilibrium solution becomes unstable as the common time delay passes a threshold value. This one-time stability switch occurs only at a symmetry-breaking Hopf bifurcation where a family of stable asynchronous limit-cycle solutions arise. In this paper, we examine the non-symmetric case, wherein the values of the time-delay parameter in each queue are different. We show that, in contrast to the symmetric case, the non-symmetric case allows bubbling, multiple stability switches and coexistence of distinct families of stable limit cycles. An investigation of the dynamical behavior of the non-symmetric system in a neighborhood of a double-Hopf bifurcation using numerical continuation explains the occurrence of the bistable limit cycles. Quasi-periodic oscillations were also observed due to the presence of torus bifurcations near the double-Hopf bifurcation. These identifications of the underlying mechanisms that cause unwanted oscillations in the system give a better understanding of the effects of providing delayed information and consequently help in better management of queues.
The Franson Experiment as an Example of Spontaneous Breaking of Time-Translation Symmetry
Authors: Oaknin David H.
Published: February 2022

We describe an explicit statistical model of local hidden variables that reproduces the predictions of quantum mechanics for the ideal Franson experiment and sheds light on the physical mechanisms that might be involved in the actual experiment. The crux of our model is the spontaneous breaking of time-translation gauge symmetry by the hidden configurations of the pairs of photons locked in time and energy involved in the experiment, which acquire a non-zero geometric phase through certain cyclic transformations.
Sorption/Desorption and Kinetics of Atrazine, Chlorfenvinphos, Endosulfan Sulfate and Trifluralin on Agro-Industrial and Composted Organic Wastes
Authors: Rojas Raquel , Repetto Guillermo , Morillo José , Usero José
Published: February 2022

The use of pesticides presents a risk to terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems. For this reason, the development of strategies to prevent and restore pollution is of the greatest interest, including the adsorption to organic matter. The aim of the present study was to investigate the sorption/desorption and kinetics of atrazine, chlorfenvinphos, endosulfan sulfate, and trifluralin onto several raw organic wastes by batch experiments. Three kinetic models were used to fit the obtained sorption kinetics data and two to fit the obtained adsorption isotherm data; both the Freundlich and pseudo-second-order kinetic models described the sorption isotherms well. The desorption study revealed hysteresis in all cases, showing strong, and not completely reversible, adsorption in most cases, with the exception of atrazine-sawdust and chlorfenvinphos-sawdust and chicken manure combinations, for which responses were weak and irreversible. The best kinetic, adsorption and desorption constants were achieved for the hydrophobic pesticides. With respect to sorption-desorption rates, orujillo was found to be the best adsorbent for atrazine, while composted urban solid waste was more suitable for trifluralin and endosulfan sulfate. Sorption constants and simple correlations indicated that, not only the organic matter content, but also the nature of the organic matter itself, and the pesticide and adsorbent properties, determine pesticide sorption-desorption. The use of wastes as efficient and cheap adsorbents for reducing the risk of pesticide pollution is proposed.
Bisphenol A-Related Effects on Bone Morphology and Biomechanical Properties in an Animal Model
Authors: Prasse Tobias , Stratos Ioannis , Niehoff Anja , Christ Hildegard , Heck Vincent , Meyer Carolin , Mittlmeier Thomas
Published: February 2022

Bisphenol A (BPA), which is contained in numerous plastic products, is known to act as an endocrine-disruptive, toxic, and carcinogenic chemical. This experimental series sought to determine the influence of BPA exposure on the femoral bone architecture and biomechanical properties of male and female Wistar rats. BPA was applied subcutaneously by using osmotic pumps. After 12 weeks, the bones were analyzed by micro-computed tomography (micro-CT) and a three-point bending test. Comparing the female low- and high-dose groups, a significantly greater marrow area (p = 0.047) was identified in the group exposed to a higher BPA concentration. In addition, the trabecular number tended to be higher in the female high-dose group when compared to the low-dose group (p > 0.05). The area moment of inertia also tended to be higher in the male high-dose group when compared to the male low-dose group (p > 0.05). Considering our results, BPA-related effects on the bone morphology in female Wistar rats are osteoanabolic after high-dose exposure, while, in male rats, a tendency toward negative effects on the bone morphology in terms of a reduced cross-sectional cortical area and total area could be demonstrated.
Uptake, Elimination and Effects of Cosmetic Microbeads on the Freshwater Gastropod Biomphalaria glabrata
Authors: Wang Ying , Baynes Alice , Renner Kofi , Zhang Mingxing , Scrimshaw Mark , Routledge Edwin
Published: February 2022

The presence of plastic cosmetic microbeads in the environment due to their extensive use in society and inevitable dispersal into wastewater is concerning. Therefore, it is vital to understand the processes of microplastic uptake and elimination by aquatic organisms, and to further assess their potential to cause harmful effects and wider impacts. We therefore investigated the short-term (48-h) and long-term (21-d) uptake, elimination, and effects of exposure to polyethylene microbeads (a mixture of fragments and spheres extracted from commercially available facial scrubs) on the freshwater snail, Biomphalaria glabrata. We found fast uptake in the short-term (75 μg/g/h) and the long-term (6.94 μg/g/h) in B. glabrata exposed to 800 particles/200-mL and 80 particles/200-mL, respectively. Irregular fragments were more easily ingested and egested compared to spheres (ANOVA, p < 0.05) in both 48-h and 21-d exposures. The mean size of the fragments in B. glabrata tissues (413 ± 16 μm) after 48-h exposure was significantly larger than that of the standard sample (369 ± 26 μm) (ANOVA, F3,20 = 3.339, p = 0.033), suggesting that aggregation in the gut may occur. Floating feces containing microbeads were observed in the long-term exposure, which could alter the fate, behavior, and bioavailability of egested microbeads. No significant effects on survival and growth were shown within 48-h or 21-d exposure periods. Thus, further studies on the specific features of microplastics (e.g., their shape and size) influencing uptake and elimination, as well as toxic molecular mechanisms, should be explored in future ecotoxicological studies.
Vav Proteins in Development of the Brain: A Potential Relationship to the Pathogenesis of Congenital Zika Syndrome?
Authors: Norbury Aidan J. , Jolly Lachlan A. , Kris Luke P. , Carr Jillian M.
Published: February 2022

Zika virus (ZIKV) infection during pregnancy can result in a significant impact on the brain and eye of the developing fetus, termed congenital zika syndrome (CZS). At a morphological level, the main serious presentations of CZS are microcephaly and retinal scarring. At a cellular level, many cell types of the brain may be involved, but primarily neuronal progenitor cells (NPC) and developing neurons. Vav proteins have guanine exchange activity in converting GDP to GTP on proteins such as Rac1, Cdc42 and RhoA to stimulate intracellular signaling pathways. These signaling pathways are known to play important roles in maintaining the polarity and self-renewal of NPC pools by coordinating the formation of adherens junctions with cytoskeletal rearrangements. In developing neurons, these same pathways are adopted to control the formation and growth of neurites and mediate axonal guidance and targeting in the brain and retina. This review describes the role of Vavs in these processes and highlights the points of potential ZIKV interaction, such as (i) the binding and entry of ZIKV in cells via TAM receptors, which may activate Vav/Rac/RhoA signaling; (ii) the functional convergence of ZIKV NS2A with Vav in modulating adherens junctions; (iii) ZIKV NS4A/4B protein effects on PI3K/AKT in a regulatory loop via PPI3 to influence Vav/Rac1 signaling in neurite outgrowth; and (iv) the induction of SOCS1 and USP9X following ZIKV infection to regulate Vav protein degradation or activation, respectively, and impact Vav/Rac/RhoA signaling in NPC and neurons. Experiments to define these interactions will further our understanding of the molecular basis of CZS and potentially other developmental disorders stemming from in utero infections. Additionally, Vav/Rac/RhoA signaling pathways may present tractable targets for therapeutic intervention or molecular rationale for disease severity in CZS.
In Silico Analysis and Synthesis of Nafamostat Derivatives and Evaluation of Their Anti-SARS-CoV-2 Activity
Authors: Fujimoto Kazuhiro J. , Hobbs Daniel C. F. , Umeda Miki , Nagata Akihiro , Yamaguchi Rie , Sato Yoshitaka , Sato Ayato , Ohmatsu Kohsuke , Ooi Takashi , Yanai Takeshi , Kimura Hiroshi , Murata Takayuki
Published: February 2022

Inhibition of transmembrane serine protease 2 (TMPRSS2) is expected to block the spike protein-mediated fusion of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). Nafamostat, a potent TMPRSS2 inhibitor as well as a candidate for anti-SARS-CoV-2 drug, possesses the same acyl substructure as camostat, but is known to have a greater antiviral effect. A unique aspect of the molecular binding of nafamostat has been recently reported to be the formation of a covalent bond between its acyl substructure and Ser441 in TMPRSS2. In this study, we investigated crucial elements that cause the difference in anti-SARS-CoV-2 activity of nafamostat and camostat. In silico analysis showed that Asp435 significantly contributes to the binding of nafamostat and camostat to TMPRSS2, while Glu299 interacts strongly only with nafamostat. The estimated binding affinity for each compound with TMPRSS2 was actually consistent with the higher activity of nafamostat; however, the evaluation of the newly synthesized nafamostat derivatives revealed that the predicted binding affinity did not correlate with their anti-SARS-CoV-2 activity measured by the cytopathic effect (CPE) inhibition assay. It was further shown that the substitution of the ester bond with amide bond in nafamostat resulted in significantly weakened anti-SARS-CoV-2 activity. These results strongly indicate that the ease of covalent bond formation with Ser441 in TMPRSS2 possibly plays a major role in the anti-SARS-CoV-2 effect of nafamostat and its derivatives.
Genome-Wide Identification and Gene Expression Analysis of the OTU DUB Family in Oryza sativa
Authors: Liu Qiannan , Yan Tingyun , Tan Xiaoxiang , Wei Zhongyan , Li Yanjun , Sun Zongtao , Zhang Hehong , Chen Jianping
Published: February 2022

Ovarian tumor domain (OTU)-containing deubiquitinating enzymes (DUBs) are an essential DUB to maintain protein stability in plants and play important roles in plant growth development and stress response. However, there is little genome-wide identification and analysis of the OTU gene family in rice. In this study, we identified 20 genes of the OTU family in rice genome, which were classified into four groups based on the phylogenetic analysis. Their gene structures, conserved motifs and domains, chromosomal distribution, and cis elements in promoters were further studied. In addition, OTU gene expression patterns in response to plant hormone treatments, including SA, MeJA, NAA, BL, and ABA, were investigated by RT-qPCR analysis. The results showed that the expression profile of OsOTU genes exhibited plant hormone-specific expression. Expression levels of most of the rice OTU genes were significantly changed in response to rice stripe virus (RSV), rice black-streaked dwarf virus (RBSDV), Southern rice black-streaked dwarf virus (SRBSDV), and Rice stripe mosaic virus (RSMV). These results suggest that the rice OTU genes are involved in diverse hormone signaling pathways and in varied responses to virus infection, providing new insights for further functional study of OsOTU genes.
Effectiveness of Prophylactic Human Papillomavirus Vaccine in the Prevention of Recurrence in Women Conized for HSIL/CIN 2-3: The VENUS Study
Authors: Casajuana-Pérez Andrea , Ramírez-Mena Mar , Ruipérez-Pacheco Estefanía , Gil-Prados Inés , García-Santos Javier , Bellón-del Amo Mónica , Hernández-Aguado Juan J. , de la Fuente-Valero Jesus , Zapardiel Ignacio , Coronado-Martín Pluvio J.
Published: February 2022

Background: Recent data have shown that the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine could impact on a decrease in high-grade cervical intraepithelial lesions (HSIL) in women who have undergone surgical treatment. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of human papilloma virus (HPV) vaccination against persistent/recurrent disease in patients undergoing conization for high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion/cervical intraepithelial neoplasia-grade 2-3 (HSIL/CIN 2-3). Methods: From January 2009 to March 2019, 563 patients with HSIL/CIN 2-3 underwent conization. The population was divided into two groups according to vaccination status: vaccinated-group (V-Group) and non-vaccinated-group (NV-Group). Bivalent or quadrivalent vaccines were administered indiscriminately. A follow-up was scheduled every 6–12 months according to clinical guidelines. The mean follow-up was 29.6 vs. 36.5 months in the V-group and NV-group, respectively. Results: 277 (49.2%) women were vaccinated, while 286 (50.8%) were not. Overall, persistent/recurrent HSIL/CIN 2-3 was presented by 12/277 (4.3%) women in the V-Group and 28/286 (9.8%) in the NV-Group (HR: 0.43, 95% Confidence interval 0.22–0.84, p = 0.014). Vaccination was associated with a 57% reduction in HSIL persistence/recurrence after treatment. When no disease was present in the first 6-month follow-up visit, persistence/recurrence rates were very low in both groups: 1.1% in the V-Group vs. 1.5% in the NV-Group (p > 0.05). The factor associated with a high-risk of HSIL persistence/recurrence was the presentation of a positive co-test in the first control after treatment (p < 0.001). Conclusions: Our results corroborate the benefit of HPV vaccination in woman treated for HSIL/CIN 2-3, showing a reduction of persistent/recurrent HSIL/CIN 2-3.
Racial and Ethnic Diversity in SARS-CoV-2 Vaccine Clinical Trials Conducted in the United States
Authors: Khalil Lana , Leary Maranda , Rouphael Nadine , Ofotokun Ighovwerha , Rebolledo Paulina A , Wiley Zanthia
Published: February 2022

Evidence shows that White and non-Hispanic individuals are overrepresented in clinical trials. The development of new vaccines and drugs, however, necessitates that clinical research trials include representative participants, particularly in light of evidence showing that underrepresented minorities may have a different response to certain medications and vaccines. Racial and ethnic disparities among clinical trials are multilayered and complex, and this requires action. The results of this study indicate that significant racial and ethnic disparities consistently exist among the most recent early SARS-CoV-2 vaccine clinical trials as compared to the pandemic H1N1 vaccine clinical trials of 2009. New strategies, policies, training programs, and reforms are required to address these disparities among clinical trials.
Neutralization of SARS-CoV-2 Variants by rVSV-ΔG-Spike-Elicited Human Sera
Authors: Yahalom-Ronen Yfat , Erez Noam , Fisher Morly , Tamir Hadas , Politi Boaz , Achdout Hagit , Melamed Sharon , Glinert Itai , Weiss Shay , Cohen-Gihon Inbar , Israeli Ofir , Izak Marina , Mandelboim Michal , Caraco Yoseph , Madar-Balakirski Noa , Mechaly Adva , Shinar Eilat , Zichel Ran , Cohen Daniel , Beth-Din Adi , Zvi Anat , Marcus Hadar , Israely Tomer , Paran Nir
Published: February 2022

The emergence of rapidly spreading variants of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) poses a major challenge to the ability of vaccines and therapeutic antibodies to provide immunity. These variants contain mutations of specific amino acids that might impede vaccine efficacy. BriLife® (rVSV-ΔG-spike) is a newly developed SARS-CoV-2 vaccine candidate currently in phase II clinical trials. It is based on a replication-competent vesicular stomatitis virus (VSV) platform. The rVSV-ΔG-spike contains several spontaneously acquired spike mutations that correspond to SARS-CoV-2 variants’ mutations. We show that human sera from BriLife® vaccinees preserve comparable neutralization titers towards alpha, gamma, and delta variants and show less than a three-fold reduction in the neutralization capacity of beta and omicron compared to the original virus. Taken together, we show that human sera from BriLife® vaccinees overall maintain a neutralizing antibody response against all tested variants. We suggest that BriLife®-acquired mutations may prove advantageous against future SARS-CoV-2 VOCs.
Greek Wine Quality Assessment and Relationships with Climate: Trends, Future Projections and Uncertainties
Authors: Koufos Georgios C. , Mavromatis Theodoros , Koundouras Stefanos , Fyllas Nikolaos M. , Theocharis Serafeim , Jones Gregory V.
Published: February 2022

Grapevine phenology is particularly sensitive to temperature variations, with changes in climate shifting events earlier and advancing berry maturation into a hotter part of the growing cycle. Consequently, serious concerns regarding the negative influences of climate change on global wine quality have been raised, with the scientific community focusing on documenting these changes to better understand and address the impacts. This study adds to this knowledge by investigating air temperature and precipitation trends over the last 40 years (i.e., 1980–2019). Over the most recent period of records (i.e., 2000–2019), minimum air temperatures significantly increased at a higher rate than maximum temperatures. On the other hand, precipitation showed the least significant trends over time. In addition, wine quality assessment and identification of the most significant weather variables and climatic indices that correlate with wine quality rating scores have also been performed. To serve this purpose, data of wine quality ratings for nine white (W) and two red (R) indigenous winegrape varieties (Vitis vinifera L., cvs) grown in Greece were obtained from the database of Thessaloniki International Wine and Spirits Competition. The results showed a statistically significant upward trend over the recent past in the majority of the varieties studied. To examine future periods, mixed-effect model outputs for Greek wine-producing regions combining an ensemble dataset using RCP4.5 and RCP8.5 emission pathways during two future periods (i.e., 2041–2065 and 2071–2095) predicts wines of higher quality, especially during the latter time period. These results reveal that Greek wine quality rating variations are mainly driven by higher maximum temperatures and drier conditions during the growing season of the grapevines. However, two important issues need to be more fully explored in Greece and elsewhere; (1) non-linear responses to warming where wine quality could suffer above varietally specific optimum temperature thresholds and (2) a better understanding of how other non-climate-related factors (e.g., canopy management, winemaking innovations) affect wine quality in the face of a changing climate.
Urban Self-Supply from Groundwater—An Analysis of Management Aspects and Policy Needs
Authors: Foster Stephen , Hirata Ricardo , Eichholz Michael , Alam Mohammad-Faiz
Published: February 2022

The use of private water wells for self-supply in developing cities has ‘mushroomed’ during recent decades, such that it is now an important component of total water-supply, but one all too frequently overlooked in official figures. Selected global experience of the phenomenon (from 10 cities in 3 continents) is succinctly summarized, and then analyzed from differing perspectives, before drawing recommendations on priorities for its improved management.
Carbon Black: A Good Adsorbent for Triclosan Removal from Water
Authors: Wang Jing , Man Haoran , Sun Li , Zang Shuying
Published: February 2022

Industrial grade carbon black was pretreated and used for adsorption of triclosan (TCS) in water, and its adsorption performance was investigated by static adsorption experiments and fixed bed adsorption experiments. The effects of pH and temperature on the adsorption capacity were investigated and the adsorption performance of carbon black and activated carbon on TCS was compared. As the pH or temperature decreased, the adsorption of TCS by carbon black increased. Carbon black had a maximum adsorption capacity of 18.62 mg/g on TCS, which was somewhat lower than the activated carbon. Furthermore, the breakthrough time increased with increasing bed height, decreasing flow rate and decreasing initial TCS concentration in the fixed bed adsorption studies. The breakthrough time was 14.33 days at a bed depth of 4.2 mm, a flow rate of 2 mL/min, and an initial TCS concentration of 0.5 mg/L TCS. The model from The Bed Depth Service Time (BDST) was well-fitting.
Marija Gimbutas (Gimbutienė): the Baltic Goddess
Authors: Milišauskas Šarūnas , Hudson Kathryn
Published: February 2022

Marija Gimbutas (Gimbutienė) is a renowned archaeologist who specialised in European prehistory. This paper explores her life and work, including her personal biography, showing how her upbringing in Lithuania shaped her academic interests and orientations. This paper also reviews her professional achievements and contributions via the lenses of seven aspects of her academic life, namely her time in higher education, her work on Lithuanian folklore and symbolism, her explorations of Old Europe during the Neolithic, her Kurgan Hypothesis and engagement with Baltic studies, her excavations in southeast Europe, her work on the Goddess, and her symbolism work. It also examines academic and popular reactions to her writing and her influence on scholars and public discourse.
Contemporary view on subarachnoidal hemorrhage: literature review
Authors:   FSBEI HE Pavlov First Saint Petersburg State Medical University, Izumi Marina Akirovna , Ponomarev Grigoriy Vyacheslavovich ,   FSBEI HE Pavlov First Saint Petersburg State Medical University, Skoromets Aleksandr Anisimovich ,   FSBEI HE Pavlov First Saint Petersburg State Medical University
Published: February 2022

Subarachnoid hemorrhage is a severe, life-threatening variant of hemorrhagic stroke. It happens due to the blood release into the subarachnoid space and requires emergency medical care. This review contains data on modern epidemiology, morphology and pathophysiology, clinical presentation and peculiarities of diagnostics and treatment of subarachnoid hemorrhage. It covers key studies of Russian and foreign scientific groups on the causes and risk factors of subarachnoid hemorrhage and mechanisms of cerebral vasospasm development. Main professional scales used in daily clinical practice are mentioned. The sensitivity and specificity of the existing methods of unruptured aneurysms neuroimaging and subarachnoid hemorrhage are analyzed. Also, the article includes summarized information on existing and prospective options for nonsurgical and surgical treatment.
Diagnostic features of vertebrobasilar insufficiency with signs of a tortuous V1 segment of the vertebral artery
Authors:   eoples› Friendship University of Russia, Moscow,, Dzhilkashiev B.C. , Antonov G.I. ,   Peoples› Friendship University of Russia, Moscow, Russia, Chmutin G.E. ,   Peoples› Friendship University of Russia, Moscow, Russia, Chmutin E.G. ,   Peoples› Friendship University of Russia, Moscow, Russia
Published: February 2022

Of the total number of circulatory disorders in the vertebrobasilar basin (VBB), which reaches 30 % of all diagnosed disorders of cerebral circulation, transient forms acquire the character of stable in 25–30 % and progress to the stage of complete stroke in 25–50 out of 100 patients within 2–5 years of the disease. The level of disability at the same time reaches 80 %. To date, there are no recommendations and developments for the management of patients with combined lesions of the extracranial arteries occurring against the background of the syndrome. The known methods of diagnosis of VSN are based on the assessment of clinical and hemodynamic, structural and morphological features and the results of dynamic observation. These methods allow using expensive equipment and repeated long-term examinations to objectify the condition of HA, and with the help of rotational samples to determine the probable genesis of VSN. However, the disadvantage is the low level of availability to attract expensive equipment and a dichotomically qualitative approach to the diagnostic process. Therefore, a diagnostic algorithm was developed, on the basis of which it is possible not only to determine the indications for reconstructive operations on V1 PA arteries with the VDN clinic, but also to predict the clinical effectiveness of the operation, but also to predict the effectiveness of surgical treatment.
Results of multiple resections in the treatment of anaplastic glioma
Authors:   FSBEI HE Privolzhsky Research Medical University of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, Nizhny Novgorod, Russian Federation, Badu Simon Quarteng
Published: February 2022

The article deals with the treatment of anaplastic glioma. Anaplastic glioma, a malignant glioma which reoccurs after surgical resection and has a poor outcome even after complex treatment. The survival outcomes have been shown to be associated with resection after progression of tumors. We studied the role of multiple resections in the treatment and the overall survival rate of patients with anaplastic glioma.
Human and society. Didactic materials for independent work of 10th grade students of educational institutions
Authors:   Department of Theory and History of Culture, Russian State Pedagogical University named after A.I. Herzen, Dokuchaev I.I.
Published: February 2022

The series of publications was prepared on the basis of a teaching manual addressed to 10th grade schoolchildren of schools studying the integrative course “Social Studies” (section “Man and Society”), and is a set of materials for independent work. The content of the manual fully meets the requirements of the Federal State Educational Standards of Basic General Education and work programs for secondary (complete) education in social studies. The presented theoretical and practical material reveals the main aspects of social life: the essence and functional characteristics of consciousness and activity, ideas about society and social institutions as a system, types of societies, views on culture as a cumulative spiritual experience and “collective memory”, its main institutions — science, religion, morality, education, art. Particular attention is paid to the definition of social progress and global problems of mankind.
Cultural experiences with narratives
Authors:   independent researcher (Armenia), Virapyan Ed.G.
Published: February 2022

Declaration of love (Nahapet Kuchak). Liberation of Byzantium. Escape from Bordeaux. Treasures of the sinner (Grigor Narekatsi). Jarmusch (American independent cinema). Passion for Sophia of Constantinople. Eduard Limonov (sexual improvisation).
Conflict management strategies and ways of conflict resolution
Authors:   inancial University under the Government of the Russian Federation, Moscow, Levadnaya D.S. , Sidorov N.V. ,   Financial University under the Government of the Russian Federation, Moscow
Published: February 2022

Conflicts are an integral part of the activities of any company. They most often negatively affect the performance of employees. In this regard, the task of competent conflict management in the organization arises as a strong motive for managers, which is what the article is devoted to.
Female boss: achievements, problems, development strategy
Authors:   Russian Academy of Sciences,  NUST MISIS, REGUL-CONSULT, Zhdankin N.A. , Polevskikh S.V. ,   NUST MISIS
Published: February 2022

The article examines the effectiveness of the female management style and the conditions for its development. It is shown that there are certain stereotypes in society that prevent women from actively participating in management. At the same time, women have clear advantages over men, although they also have their own disadvantages. The analysis of the “glass ceiling” for women’s career, which many women do not want to put up with, is presented. The article gives an example of female leadership for a large company, which shows the assessments of the leader’s management style on the part of the team and the boss’s self-assessment. Obvious problems are identified and recommendations for their solution are given.
Creating consumer value and increasing Amazon’s efficiency
Authors:   Plekhanov Russian University of Economics, Moscow, Golik A.V. , Maslennikova A.A. ,   Plekhanov Russian University of Economics, Moscow
Published: February 2022

This article is devoted to the creation of consumer value. The methods of analyzing the organization’s activities, such as the PESTEL analysis and Porter’s 5 competitive forces, are discussed. The target audience of the company has also been determined; the company’s communication methods and distribution policy have been identified. In addition, the measures aimed at improving the effectiveness of the organization’s activities are proposed.
Business process reengineering and its efficiency
Authors:   Plekhanov Russian University of Economics, Moscow, Unanyan E.B. , Sidorova V.N. ,   Plekhanov Russian University of Economics, Moscow
Published: February 2022

The purpose of the study is to investigate the effectiveness of using business process reengineering. The article outlines the theoretical foundations and practical methods of using the business process reengineering mechanism, which allows organizations to fundamentally rethink how they do their work in order to improve customer service, reduce operating costs and ultimately increase profits. In addition, the process of reengineering is considered on the example of the merger of two telecommunications companies.
Assessment of the degree of influence of the external and internal environment of the company on its strategic potential
Authors:   Plekhanov Russian University of Economics, Moscow, Kozlov V.A.
Published: February 2022

The article analyzes the impact of the macro environment on the company’s activities and identifies the strengths and weaknesses of the organization, as well as the prospects for its development.
Szilánkok a felsőfokú pénzügyi és számviteli oktatásról : Mit is tanuljanak ma a jövő bankárai és számvitelesei?
Authors: Lantos Csaba , Lukács János , Száz János
Published: February 2022

A pénzügyi kultúra része az is, hogy milyen legyen a jövő felsőfokú pénzügyi oktatása. Cikkünk fő kérdése az, hogy mit is tanuljanak a jövő bankárai, számvitelesei, könyvvizsgálói ahhoz, hogy növeljék a szakma presztízsét, megőrizzék diplomájuk magas ár/érték arányát, a kedvező elhelyezkedési esélyüket. A demográfiai szorításban és a külföld által támasztott verseny mellett sokkal intenzívebb belföldi versenyre kell minden intézménynek felkészülnie. Ez a „globális” kép természetesen valóságos szűkített területünkön is: a felsőfokú pénzügyi oktatási területen is el kell dönteni minden intézménynek, hogy merre keresi a helyét, milyen stratégiát választ. Cikkünkben a múltat is felidézve olyan szempontokat vetünk fel, amelyeket fontosnak tartunk a jövőre vonatkozó döntéseknél figyelembe venni.
Analisis Pengaruh Resiko Bisnis, Return On Asset dan Likuiditas terhadap Struktur Modal Pada Perusahaan Barang Konsumsi di Bursa Efek Indonesia Periode 2011-2015
Authors: - Arie
Published: February 2022

Struktur modal merupakan kombinasi hutang dan ekuitas dalam strukturkeuangan jangka panjang perusahaan. Apabila perusahaan lebih banyakmenggunakan utang berarti memperbesar risiko yang ditanggung oleh pemegangsaham dan juga memperbesar tingkat pengembalian yang diharapkan. Semakinbesar Return on Assets maka hutang akan relatif rendah untuk digunakan.Semakin tinggi rasio likuiditas, maka semakin besar kemungkinan hutang bisadibayar dan sebaliknya. Metode yang digunakan adalah penelitian kuantitatif.Teknik pengumpulan data yang digunakan adalah teknik dokumentasi danpengumpulan data sekunder dari laporan keuangan perusahaan sektor barangkonsumsi terdaftar di Bursa Efek Indonesia Periode 2011-2015. Sampel 22perusahaan sektor barang konsumsi dengan 5 periode penelitian total 110observasi. Model analisis dalam penelitian ini adalah regresi linier bergandadengan menggunakan program SPSS. Pengujian data dilakukan dengan uji asumsiklasik, uji koefisien determinasi, uji F dan uji t. Kesimpulan dari hasil penelitianini secara parsial Resiko bisnis berpengaruh positif dan signifikan terhadapstruktur modal, Return On Assets dan likuiditas berpengaruh negatif dansignifikan terhadap struktur modal sedangkan secara simultan Resiko bisnis,Return On Assets dan Likuiditas berpengaruh signifikan terhadap struktur modal.