bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Importance of Garni Activities in the Sustainable Tourism: A Case Study of Hotels
Authors: Ganai Javeed Ahmad
Published: June 2021

This article provides a broad overview of sustainability in the hospitality and tourist business, as well as content information on sustainability that could be useful in hospitality and tourism education. The study focuses on the following question in particular: What role does sustainability education play in the hospitality and tourism industry? Themes in sustainability education are recognised in the accommodation, meetings and events, and food and beverage sectors, as well as implementations of sustainability principles in hospitality and tourism operations and perspectives on the future direction of sustainability education in this subject.
Sinopsis de las especies del género Bacopa (Plantaginaceae, Gratioleae) de Paraguay y sus estados de conservación
Authors: Sosa Maria de las Mercedes , Florentín Javier E. , Scatigna André V.
Published: June 2021

Introducción y objetivos: Bacopa (Plantaginaceae) representa el género con mayor número de especies de la tribu Gratioleae, ocupando una gran diversidad de ambientes húmedos en Sudamérica. El objetivo de este estudio es contribuir al conocimiento morfológico y taxonómico de las especies de Bacopa de Paraguay, aportando una clave de identificación para los taxones aceptados, descripciones morfológicas, ilustraciones botánicas, mapas de distribución, observaciones y estado de conservación a nivel de país.
M&M: Los datos obtenidos se basan en el trabajo de campo y el examen de especímenes de herbario. El estado de conservación de las especies se evaluó en Paraguay, teniendo en cuenta sus distribuciones (criterio B), de acuerdo con las directrices de la UICN.
Resultados/Conclusiones: Se registran para Paraguay 15 especies de Bacopa, una con dos variedades. Se citan los primeros registros de Bacopa australis y B. stricta para el país. Se presentan preliminarmente los estados de conservación de las especies y evaluaciones de distribución paraguaya. De los 15 taxones confirmados para Paraguay, 13 se encuentran con categoría de amenaza, 12 están en peligro (EN) y B. verticillata en peligro crítico (CR). Las especies se distribuyen en cinco ecorregiones, de las cuales el mayor número de especies (13) se encuentra en la región del Chaco Húmedo.
Cognitive Deficiencies pathophysiology are mainly an unknown area. Curing the neurological conditions could be an objective for gene therapy
Authors: Dowaidar Moataz
Published: June 2021

Currently, it appears that the pathophysiology of Cognitive Deficiency (CD) is mostly uncharted territory. In this study, we used both clinical research and mouse models to identify the reported Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) symptoms and to explain how tissue damage occurs in SLE, which helps us develop optimal therapies for CD. The primary goal of treatment is to cure the neurological problem, rather than repair the immunological issues. It should be noted that CD develops even in the absence of flares, indicating that treating it would need much more intensive immunosuppression with more damage. For further study on CD, it will be necessary to collaborate amongst neurologists, rheumatologists, and immunologists. This work would succeed by advancing the ability to unveil or hide the fundamental mechanism of CD.
Tissue hypoxia has been established as a master regulator for alternative splicing, with substantial clinical consequences and possibilities for gene therapy targeting
Authors: Dowaidar Moataz
Published: June 2021

Tissue hypoxia has been found as a master regulator of alternative splicing, which can have significant clinical implications. Hypoxia-elicited AS is more common in the setting of various cancer hallmarks than other illnesses, owing to the fact that hypoxia and AS are intensively explored in cancer. However, an increasing number of hypoxia-induced AS episodes have been linked to a variety of clinical conditions, including neurological and cardiovascular disorders. Hypoxia-induced AS, of course, has its own set of markers with prognostic and therapeutic implications. Targeted regulation of hypoxia signaling with the objective of modulating hypoxia-driven AS is of great interest in some cancers. In order to design acceptable therapeutic paradigms, future research will be necessary to unravel the proper molecular pathways. Although some of the discovered molecular targets appear to have therapeutic potential, more in-vivo research is required.
The Impact of Personality and Situational Factors on Perceived Stress: An Investigation During COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Do Ngoc
Published: June 2021

The study investigates the relationship between personality and situational factors on perceived stress level during the global COVID-19 pandemic. Analysis of data collected from people across different territories confirms the association between personality traits and perceived stress level. Furthermore, the paper shows that people are experiencing moderate stress, which is affected by where they are residing, whether their personal finance is at risk, and their usage of social media during the pandemic.
Overeducation Among Saudi Graduates in the Labour Market: Incidence and Determinants Across Two Self-Assessment Measures
Authors: Alzubaidi Mohammed
Published: June 2021

Education expansion has prompted an extensive body of literature on the issue of overeducation, particularly in developed countries. However, as is the case for many developing countries, little, if any, empirical evidence from Saudi Arabia has emerged on this topic. Using cross-sectional survey data, this study examined the prevalence and possible determinants of overeducation among Saudi graduates in the labour market on the basis of two different self-assessment measures. Results indicated that nearly 50% of Saudi graduates in the study were considered overeducated based on each measure, while about 41% were consistently considered overeducated based on both measures. Using logistic regression models, several individual and job characteristics were deemed as major determinants of the probability of being overeducated across both measures. Furthermore, the two measures largely overlapped and yielded somewhat similar conclusions in terms of both the estimates and determinants of overeducation among graduates. The plausible implications of the results for education and labour market policies are discussed.
Given the importance of mTOR signaling in a number of illnesses, it looks suitable to use miR 99 family members as a therapeutic intervention to deal with these illnesses by using gene therapy tools
Authors: Dowaidar Moataz
Published: June 2021

This review outlines the activities of mirR99 family members in different cancers. Though the functional roles of these miRs are well described in some malignancies, the functional functions of these family members in other forms of cancer remain uncertain. The development and use of engineered mouse models such as miR99a KO, miR100 KO, or miR99a/100 DKO mice challenged with the type or subtype of the cancer in question would be extremely beneficial in determining the physiological and pathological roles of members of this family in different types of cancer and immune cell subtypes.The miR99 family members, which include miR99a, miR99b, and miR100, are key components of a regulatory network that governs several aspects of the cell life cycle, including differentiation, metabolism, survival and death. They are involved in the deregulation of numerous critical pathways including growth factor receptors like FGFR and IGF1R, Notch, mTOR, TGFB and Wnt signaling pathways to alter cellular function. In addition, the typical miR99 target, mTOR, appears to be at the core of the regulatory network miR99, and is more commonly involved in miR99-mediated dysregulation of cell activity. Given the importance of mTOR signaling in a number of illnesses, it looks suitable to use miR99 family members as a therapeutic intervention to deal with these illnesses. mTOR depletion did not result in upregulating miR99a in OSCC cells. In addition, an aberrant activation of PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling in AMLs, despite increased expression of miR99 family members in AMLs. All in all, this evidence alludes to the existence of an unknown mechanism that maintains mTOR activity running despite the presence in these cells of a high level of miR99 family members. Modulation of miR99 activity might be a viable method for changing the expression of Treg in autoimmune diseases.
Critical limb ischemia potential gene therapy strategies
Authors: Dowaidar Moataz
Published: June 2021

Revascularization is accomplished in 90–95% of CLI patients, according to current data. These findings indicate the increasing involvement of endovascular options (tibial angioplasty) in the last 5 years, indicated in the phrase "endovascular first" and often used in relativized indication. How long this more rigorous under-the-knee treatment will endure in a group of vascular patients with diabetes is uncertain. There is no reliable long-term evidence on how often and/or how quickly these patients need to be hospitalized to have their limbs amputated or CLI treatment. "10-30% of CLI patients can not be revascularized," most sources say.Vascular doctors require precise tools to analyze results to manage treatment for patients with limb-threatening ischemia. Historically, bypass-patency rates, amputation of larger limbs, and death were the most often used endpoints for measuring therapeutic efficacy. Because they're easy to recognize and document, they're important in clinical research. While more difficult to define and track, quality of life and functional status are more probable predictors of success.Amputation is not always necessary when standard revascularization is no longer an option for the patient, based on this paper's findings. Not every CLI patient is the same, and the effects of careful wound care alone in selected high-risk patients should not be overlooked. Also, some of the procedures/therapies discussed in this article may be appropriate for certain individuals. These techniques can be employed in patients with resting pain or non-healing wounds who have extensive minor artery disease, and no distal artery targets for standard open or endovascular revascularization, according to a literature review. As a reason, they are considered a last resort treatment when amputation seems to be the only plausible alternative decision. The hardest component of a vascular medicine specialist's work is to decide whether treatment is suitable for a given patient.
Mutations in MED12 lead to mental retardation, including Opitz–Kaveggia syndrome, Ohdo syndrome, Lujan–Fryns syndrome, and psychosis. It's a target for gene therapy
Authors: Dowaidar Moataz
Published: June 2021

Mutations in MED12 lead to mental retardation, including Opitz–Kaveggia syndrome, Ohdo syndrome, Lujan–Fryns syndrome, and psychosis. Malignant cell transformation was linked to a transcriptional machine failure and, as such, MED12 function dysregulation was engaged across many cancers. Its involvement in hormone-dependent cancers (uterine leiomyoma, breast fibroepithelial tumors, prostate cancer, and breast cancer) represents a unique target for such malignancies. Knowledge of downstream targets of MED12 alterations also includes specific targets that might be exploited in MED 12-mutated cancers. For example, MED 12 loss entails resistance to lung cancer tyrosine kinase inhibitors, pushing emphasis to alternative therapies. The entire genome sequencing area is growing quite rapidly, so we anticipate identifying MED12 mutations more regularly in people with intellectual disability. It is also worth noting that gene location on chromosome X mainly affects males, causing such gender bias illnesses. The study was published in the journal of Clinical and molecular Epidemiology, Biomarkers' Journal. The study concluded that MED12 is a crucial component of transcription regulatory machinery and any alterations in its structure or function are deleterious to cell growth, division, and differentiation processes. MED12 is, thus, a major transcription regulator affecting various behavioral disorders and malignancies. This research suffices to identify MED12 as a therapeutic target and biomarker for several diseases.
Downstream processing of virus, virus-like particles and nanoparticulate inclusion bodies to be used as gene delivery vehicles for human gene therapy applications
Authors: Dowaidar Moataz
Published: June 2021

Design and analyze future affinity ligands such as antibodies, aptamers, metal affinity, peptides, triazine dyes, and red blood cell carriers to increase monolithic chromatography selectivity and two-phase affinity-aqueous systems. Monolithic chromatography systems may be constructed and optimized by examining viruses, virus-like particles, and nanoparticulate inclusion bodies from difficult culture media. Different chromatographic characteristics such as monolithic supports, active monolith groups, binding and elution buffers, elution gradients, column equilibrium volumes, and regeneration should be investigated with the aim of optimizing monolithic chromatography separation and recovery. To develop and optimize aqueous two-phase systems, several different parameters need to be investigated and compared, such as polymer type and concentration, salt solution, surfactants and ions, polymer molecular weight, ion nature and ionic strength, present affinity ligands, volumetric ratio, temperature, pH, and sample load, to name a few.Several relevant biological models, such as Newcastle disease (NDV), herpes (HPr), or viral vectors bluetongue (BTV), can be employed to establish different patterns and predict the generalized mechanistic process of enhanced purification systems. Because optimal systems are intended to be deployed at the industrial level, a comparison of typical downstream processing and alternatives in terms of recovery, technological advantages, economic feasibility, and environmental sustainability is needed. Cell separation, viral concentration and viral purification may all be reduced to one step utilizing integrated chromatography platforms on monolith supports and aqueous two-phase systems. In addition, the efficiency of separation and purification yields achieved after these integrated systems are predicted to be substantially higher than those produced in conventional procedures. As a result, the benefits of these alternative and cutting-edge technologies are predicted to contribute to more efficient, long-term, and cost-effective downstream processing of virus-like particles.
Central nervous system gene therapy has entered a new development paradigm. New techniques are being employed for a wide range of illness indications and pathways
Authors: Dowaidar Moataz
Published: June 2021

As a result of recent favorable results in phase I–II studies in human patients, as well as improved vector technology, gene therapy for central nervous system (CNS) disorders has entered a new development paradigm. These approaches are currently being used for a wide range of disease indications and pathways, considerably expanding the scope of gene therapy for CNS diseases. This expansion involves both the simplicity of delivery techniques and the anticipation of higher vector production requirements, particularly for IV targeting. Standardized delivery strategies that may be adopted in a variety of locales throughout the world are needed to serve an increasing number of patients. Furthermore, manufacturability is a critical factor in the development of the GT sector, as it influences not only the creation of high-quality, large-quantity vectors to meet future clinical demand, but also the cost and our ability to make innovative gene therapy products accessible to all patients.
Ophthalmic gene and cell therapies
Authors: Dowaidar Moataz
Published: June 2021

In the field of ocular gene and cell therapy, tremendous progress has been made in both research and clinical testing. In the laboratory, researchers have uncovered potential new ways of treating glaucoma holistically by decreasing IOP and providing retinal and optic nerve neuroprotection. As we get a better understanding of the disease mechanisms, we will be able to target specific glaucoma disease pathways with gene and cell therapies in order to achieve safe, effective, and long-term vision loss prevention. Improved diagnostic tools such as high-resolution imaging and continuous tonometry will make it simpler to detect glaucoma early and obtain better treatment outcomes. Translation of innovative medicines from the laboratory to the clinical environment is a significant problem, particularly for veterinary ophthalmic applications, due to restricted resources for generating animal-specific drugs.
What Impact has air pollution on health of human beings and environment? Is there any relation between covid-19 & air pollution?
Authors: Kumar Dr Piyush
Published: June 2021

Almost all the countries around the world are experiencing high levels of air pollution. How does pollution impact our body in times of COVID-19? Air pollution and related climatic-environmental changes is one of the prime concern and biggest challenge globally in 21st century faced by most of the nations. The global impact of this public health problem can be assessed and understood from the data of morbidity and mortality as well as DALY (disability adjusted life years) & QALY (quality adjusted life years), YLL (years of life lost) measurements. Today global air is having several varieties and types of air pollutants which are taking lives of people on daily basis and the death count may be more as compared to covid-19 deaths. The finest and smallest particulate matters present in air as byproducts of several human and industry related activities are able to infiltrate the respiratory system through inhalation while breathing, leading to respiratory and cardiovascular system(CVS) diseases, reproductive and central nervous system(CNS) diseases and malfunctioning as well as various carcinoma. Ozone (O3) protects us from harmful effects of UV (ultra violet) radiations which can cause cancers, skin diseases as well as mutations etc but at the same time it is harmful when in high concentration at ground level, affecting the respiratory and cardiovascular system. Added to this other pollutants present in air such as nitrogen oxide(NO), sulfur dioxide(SO2), Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs), dioxins, and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are all important air pollutants which are known to be harmful to human beings. Carbon monoxide (CO) can bind with haemoglobin (Hb) very tightly (not allowing oxygen to be released at tissue level causing tissue hypoxia) forming carboxy-haemoglobin which can cause poisoning when breathed in at high levels. Heavy metals for example lead (Pb) can lead to direct poisoning (plumbinism or saturnism) or chronic intoxication can lead to a variety of CNS, GIT(gastrointestinal tract), and reproductive system diseases, depending on the exposure. Air pollution usually causes respiratory problems such as Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), asthma, bronchiolitis, lung cancer, cardiovascular events, central nervous system dysfunctions, and cutaneous diseases. Added to this, the climate change resulting from environmental pollution affects the geographical distribution of many infectious diseases like natural disasters as well as affects social and environmental determinants of health. The only way to tackle this problem is through public health awareness, strategies to reduce air pollution as well as environmental protection measures with a multidisciplinary Intersectoral approach by scientific experts of national and international organizations. The global leaders must address the emergence of this threat and propose sustainable and suitable solutions to deal this challenging issue.
Network medicine might lead to new treatments for dyslipidemia. It will be a challenging method to implement in a clinical context
Authors: Dowaidar Moataz
Published: June 2021

With statin-based therapies to prevent or delay atherosclerotic progression, the reductionist approach of strict guidelines for treating dyslipidemias resulted in remarkable low-density lipoprotein transported cholesterol reduction. The precise estimation of residual cardiovascular diseases risk, on the other hand, remains a significant challenge that necessitates the development of new integrated approaches. The application of a network medicine approach could lead to the development of novel strategies. This is unquestionably a multidisciplinary strategy that will be difficult to put into practice in a clinical setting. We must dissect a patient with dyslipidemia to the level of single cell analysis and then reconstruct the puzzle to get a complete picture of nodes and disease modules. These efforts are critical for fully comprehending the molecular networks that underpin dyslipidemia and atherosclerosis. Furthermore, computer-aided decision-making is becoming more common in the clinical evaluation of subjects with suspected coronary heart disease. Physicians, on the other hand, should keep in mind that machines lack a "sense of reasoning" and should therefore question the reliability of a clinical decision made solely by robots. As a result, AI should be referred to as "augmented intelligence," which can aid physicians in decision-making but should leave the final strategy in their hands.
CRISPR-based gene editing is presently being tried in many clinical trials
Authors: Dowaidar Moataz
Published: June 2021

CRISPR is a bacterial host defense system that may work as "molecular scissors" in eukaryotic cells to permanently modify genetic coding. Some barriers to using CRISPR as a therapeutic include guaranteeing adequate delivery of the RNP complex to the proper cell/tissue and showing safe and effective editing. Off-target editing (i.e., unwanted modification in a non-target DNA location) may result in a range of safety problems impacting normal cell function. The degree of cell editing events, including off-target modifications, is known to be altered by in vitro dosage and time of exposure to active RNP complexes. The safety of these drugs relies heavily on preventing unwanted mutations, off-target mutations, and any genomic rearrangements, all of which may have harmful implications.In some illnesses, a slight general adjustment of positive and negative protein levels may be sufficient to have a therapeutic impact. Understanding this therapeutic window will enable researchers to modify drug dosing regimens, especially for in vitro use, to obtain optimum pharmacodynamics with the fewest potential adverse effects. Most of the bioanalytical endpoints outlined for CRISPR are simple methods performed in most labs. Development teams will need to manage resources by selecting key exposure endpoints that deliver the greatest value from pharmacokinetics/PD and safety evaluations. Two in vitro delivery strategies have entered clinical trials in immune-privileged locations. The drug development environment will have to be altered in close coordination with regulatory agencies to construct need-to-know endpoints and pivotal trials to successfully move medicines forward in a safe and controlled way.
Intravitreal and subretinal injections currently deliver most gene therapy, including siRNA for eye illnesses. Non-viral vectors may provide targeting
Authors: Dowaidar Moataz
Published: June 2021

The development of siRNA medicine in eye diseases is tremendously useful and encouraging. Successful gene therapy requires excellent siRNA delivery strategies. SiRNA medicines can be coupled with a suitable vector to boost the efficacy of siRNA in treating eye diseases. Numerous other vectors are used for SiRNA delivery investigations besides those described in the article. For example, Cai et al. produced a combination of bioreducible fluorinated peptide dendrimer (BFPD) and siVEGF that greatly improved physiological stability and serum resistance while bypassing all extracellular barriers associated with local siRNA injection. In cell silencing studies, BFPD complexes carrying siVEGF were shown to have high VEGF silencing efficiency (approximately 65%) and robust potential to prevent cell growth. Many siRNA medications, such as bevasiranib, SYL040012, and QPI-1007, were clinically tested. Unfortunately, due to poor clinical results, the phase III clinical study rejected the bevasiranib proposal and other latecomers were not spared. The most obvious limitations affecting the efficiency of siRNA medicines are their poor intrinsic targeting, poor stability, and off-target effects, resulting in much fewer than promised advantages of the medicines, as well as severe adverse effects.The ultimate goal of building an eye medication delivery system for intraocular disease treatments is to produce long-acting pharmacological formulations with precision controlled release rate, biocompatibility, and long-lasting effects on target tissue. Vector form and size may be modified to determine controlled release rate. In preclinical and clinical investigations, intravitreal (IVT) injection and subretinal (SR) injections now deliver most ocular gene therapies, both known to produce inflammation. However, certain siRNA treatments are fragile, requiring frequent injections, raising inflammatory risk. Biodegradable vector research is crucial. Lack of non-viral cell selectivity is a serious limiting factor. Non-viral vectors can be modified to contain targeting features like antibodies or ligands for targeted distribution. CD44, a molecule of cell adhesion, is present in many cells. CD44 expression is 2-6 times more in glaucomatous than healthy cells. HA, as a ligand CD44, allows vectors to target glaucomatous cells. Dillinger et al. created HA-coated nanoparticles that transport siRNA directly to cell surface CD44 receptors against the connective tissue development factor. Cell culture research and perfusion testing in pig, murine, and human organ culture demonstrated that distribution of HA-coated nanoparticles to outflow route cells was more successful than that of PEI-coated nanoparticles.
Medium, Small, adna Medium Enterprises and Digital Platforms
Authors: Dina
Published: June 2021

Digitization has proven to be able to open up inclusiveness and electronification in Indonesia. MSMEs need to be continuously improved so that they can be integrated into national production systems or global supply chains.
Nrf2 signaling pathways are part of a wider network of signaling pathways regulating thymoquinone therapeutic actions which need innovative formulations and delivery methods
Authors: Dowaidar Moataz
Published: June 2021

Thymoquinone (TQ) therapeutic actions are regulated by one of the multiple routes that activate the Nrf2 protein. The effect of TQ is connected to Nrf2 signaling pathways, which make up part of a larger set of signaling pathways. The fact that TQ has been successful in dealing with so many illnesses implies that it might be utilized in concert with other therapy modalities. In the end, as a consequence of further testing on its safety and increased bioavailability, TQ might be beneficial for therapeutic purposes.At present, there are no human clinical trials that examine the modulatory effect of TQ on Nrf2-mediated cellular homeostasis, and the current study could not provide any recommendations as to where to go for human TQ. In order to establish the therapeutic benefits of TQ in human disorders that rely on Nrf2 signaling, further clinical trials are needed. The pharmacokinetic properties of TQ are now limited to a greater body of studies examining the drug's role in Nrf2 pathway activation. Future research should focus on the development of novel TQ formulations and delivery techniques given these limitations.
Gene therapy approaches for Hemophilia A and B
Authors: Dowaidar Moataz
Published: June 2021

The increasing number of approved gene therapy drugs and the impending licensing of AAV-based gene transfer drugs for Hemophilia A (HA) and hemophilia B (HB) has prompted optimism that equivalent therapeutics for other monogenic bleeding illnesses may be established. Although the benefits of replacement therapies have proven the case for gene therapy of other rare hereditary bleeding disorders, translational gene therapy for these diseases will almost definitely require additional breakthroughs. AAV vector safety in human volunteers was first demonstrated in FIX gene transfer skeletal-muscle-directed investigations. FVII, VWD and GT gene therapy may require comparable breakthroughs to overcome present restrictions. Alloantibodies are present in all hereditary bleeding disorders.A growing body of research indicates AAV gene therapy, especially liver-directed approaches, may be more tolerogenic than protein therapy. Better awareness of variances in transgene expression in male and female participants following AAV liver-directed gene therapy would be critical for autosomal disorders. The mutant transgenes FVIII-BDD and FIX-Padua. respectively considerably assisted gene therapy forHA and HB. The effects of systemically administered SMA in infants were examined. Similarly, the effects of the systemically administered SMA in infants on infants were examined. The effects on hemostatic efficacy due to decreased multimerization. The gene therapy product uniQure NV (Amsterdam, The Netherlands), efficiently replaced FIX-WT with projected improvements in FIX activity levels and without restarting clinical development. With projected high costs of gene therapy, new quality-of-life data is needed to better understand the cost-benefit of such therapies.
Fenomena panic buying
Authors: Fitri Rohmadina Sabila
Published: June 2021

apakah fenomena kenaikan bahan pokok bulan ramadhan termasuk panic buying?
Using serial dependence to predict confidence across observers and cognitive domains
Authors: Mei Ning , Rahnev Dobromir , Soto David
Published: June 2021

Our perceptual system appears hardwired to exploit regularities of input features across space and time in seemingly stable environments. This can lead to serial dependence effects whereby recent perceptual representations bias current perception. Serial dependence has also been demonstrated for more abstract representations such as perceptual confidence. Here we ask whether temporal patterns in the generation of confidence judgments across trials generalize across observers and different cognitive domains. Data from the Confidence Database across perceptual, memory, and cognitive paradigms was re-analyzed. Machine learning classifiers were used to predict the confidence on the current trial based on the history of confidence judgments on the previous trials. Cross-observer and cross-domain decoding results showed that a model trained to predict confidence in the perceptual domain generalized across observers to predict confidence across the different cognitive domains. Intriguingly, these serial dependence effects also generalized across correct and incorrect trials, indicating that serial dependence in confidence generation is uncoupled to metacognition (i.e. how we evaluate the precision of our own behavior). We discuss the ramifications of these findings for the ongoing debate on domain-generality vs. specificity of metacognition.
Predicting the General P-factor of Psychopathology using Lower Levels of the Personality Hierarchy
Authors: Hang Yuzhan , Speyer Lydia Gabriela , Haring Liina , Murray Aja Louise , Mõttus René
Published: June 2021

Background: Mental health disorders share a substantial amount of variance, reflecting a generalised vulnerability to any and all mental health problems. Studies on personality-psychopathology associations have previously been mainly focused at the domain-level of the personality hierarchy even though research has indicated that lower level personality traits (facets and nuances) capture valid unique variance beyond domains. The current study investigated the associations between the general ‘p-factor’ of psychopathology and multiple levels of the personality hierarchy in order to gain finer-grained insights into their relations. Methods: First, the structure of psychopathology was modelled using an exploratory bi-factor model of 23 items measuring symptoms of mental health problems using the DSM-5 Self-Rated Level 1 Cross-Cutting Symptom Measure and the ASSIST questionnaire in a sample of 1,853 Estonian adults. Factor scores for the p-factor and orthogonal specific factors were estimated and elastic net regression models trained to examine the predictive ability of the different levels of the personality hierarchy for these factor scores.Results: A bi-factor model including a general factor and three specific factors representing internalising problems, thought disorders and substance use best represented the structure of psychopathology. Elastic net regression analyses indicated that personality traits related to the vulnerability, depression and immoderation facets were most strongly positively associated with the p-factor while traits related to the friendliness facet and the achievement-striving facet showed the strongest negative associations. Nuance-level analyses had the highest predictive accuracy for all psychopathology factors, particularly for thought disorders and substance use. Conclusion: Lower levels of the personality hierarchy contain additional information about psychopathology. Utilising this information opens up avenues for clinical applications that may help identify individuals most at risk for developing mental health disorders.
THE RISE AND FALL OF THE PSYCHOSOMATIC APPROACH TO MUS/ME/CFS
Authors: Marks David Francis
Published: June 2021

The psychosomatic approach to medically unexplained symptoms, myalgic encephalomyelitis and chronic fatigue syndrome (MUS/MECFS) is critically reviewed using scientific criteria. Based on the ‘Biopsychosocial Model’, the psychosomatic theory proposes that patients’ dysfunctional beliefs, deconditioning and attentional biases cause illness, disrupt therapies, and lead to preventable deaths. The evidence reviewed here suggests that none of the psychosomatic hypotheses is empirically supported. The lack of robust supportive evidence, fallacious causal assumptions, inappropriate and harmful therapies, broken scientific principles, repeated methodological flaws and unwillingness to share data all give the appearance of cargo cult science. The psychosomatic approach needs to be retired and replaced by a scientific, biologically grounded approach to MUS/MECFS.
Anxiety, motivation, and competence in mathematics and reading for children with and without learning difficulties
Authors: Pollack Courtney , Wilmot Dayna , Centanni Tracy , Halverson Kelly , Frosch Isabelle , D'Mello Anila , Romeo Rachel R , Imhof Andrea , Capella Jimmy , Wade Karolina , Al Dahhan Noor Z. , Gabrieli John , Christodoulou Joanna A
Published: June 2021

Knowledge of the relations among learners’ socio-emotional characteristics and competencies as they engage in mathematics and reading is limited, especially for children with academic difficulties. This study examined the relations between anxiety, motivation, and competence in mathematics and reading, within and across domains, in an academically-diverse set of 8–13-year-old learners (n = 146). To measure anxiety and motivation across domains, we paired existing measures of math anxiety and reading motivation with researcher-developed analogues for reading anxiety and math motivation. Participants completed standardized assessments of mathematics and reading, anxiety and motivation surveys for math and reading, and a measure of nonverbal cognitive ability. Results showed high internal consistency for all anxiety and motivation scales (Cronbach’s alpha = 0.76-0.91). Pearson correlations showed that within and across domains, participants with higher competence had lower anxiety and higher motivation. Higher anxiety was also associated with lower motivation. Regression analyses showed that for both math and reading, within-domain motivation was a stronger predictor of competence than anxiety. There was a unidirectional across-domain relation: socio-emotional characteristics for reading predicted math competence, after accounting for nonverbal cognitive ability, age, gender, and within-domain anxiety and motivation. Results contribute to knowledge of the socio-emotional characteristics of children with and without learning difficulties in association with reading and math activities. Implications of a unidirectional socio-emotional link between the two domains can advance research and theory of the relations among socio-emotional characteristics and competence for academically-diverse learners.
The holobiont mind: A bridge between 4E-cognition and the microbiome
Authors: Palacios-Garcia Ismael , Parada Francisco J.
Published: June 2021

All life on earth is intrinsically linked. At the very foundation of everyevolutionary interaction are microorganisms; integral components in thecomposition of both organisms and ecosystems. This perspectivechallenges the traditional conception of monogenetic biologicalindividuals, suggesting living beings are actually composite multi-speciescomplexes; holobionts. In the present article, we introduce the conceptof the holobiont mind; a biogenic conception of cognition. Wefurthermore expand on the idea of the mind as the emerging product ofmulti-genomic morphology of a composite agent, in ever changinginteraction with its ecological niche. We briefly review recent evidence onthe Brain-Gut-Microbiome axis and the Microbiome of the BuiltEnvironment in order to provide a bridge between the Holobiont Mindand the 4E approach to Cognition, two complementary lines of evidencethat have not been linked before, opening novel venues for research withdirect impact on health and disease.
Insights towards cultural aspects and related impacts of Lesson Study practices: a systematic review
Authors: de Souza Lima Carmem Silvia , Schlünzen Elisa Tomoe Moriya , Junior Klaus Schlünzen
Published: June 2021

Lesson Study (LS) is a professional development model that Japanese teachers have been utilizing for over a century. Although several scholars have proclaimed the benefits of adopting LS in international educational systems, it is still unclear how LS has been used and how it should be implemented in cultures beyond Japan. In order to shed light on the theme, an International Systematic Literature Review was conducted aiming to (1) identify specific features of LS practices as they are developed in different settings, (2) verify and analyze what cultural aspects may have impacted the implementation of LS, and (3) verify and develop analysis of challenges for the use of successful practices of LS in international contexts. 5 international academic databases were searched in order to identify 28 publications. This investigation provides multiple evidences of the fast global spread of LS and reveals that some key adaptations or redesigns are conducted so that LS meets local needs and conditions. It argues that time constraint, financial support, search for quick results and inclusion of knowledgeable others are critical aspects that should be considered when introducing LS to a new context. Finally, this study suggests further avenues for research to deepen the understanding of how the LS movement should be properly implemented in different contexts outside Japan.
BALKAN DIRECTION OF CZECH FOREIGN POLICY
Authors: Shcherbakova Yulia
Published: June 2021

The article examines one of the directions of the foreign policy of the Czech Republic - the Balkan one. Based on the analysis of government documents on foreign policy, it is noted that this vector cannot be considered a priority. Nevertheless, the development of the situation in the Balkans is of considerable interest in Czech society. The main topic discussed in the article is the integration of the Balkan states into the European Union. The article reveals the connection between the foreign policy strategy of the Czech Republic and the current state of the Czech political scene, where the discussion on the recognition of Kosovo's independence plays a significant role. In connection with the active use of the «southern Balkan route» by migrants, certain problems of the migration policy of the Czech Republic are considered in the context of the fight against illegal migration. The main research method is content analysis of foreign policy documents of the Czech government and speeches of Czech politicians. The author concludes that the Czech Republic actively supports the process of European integration of the Balkan states, considering it an indispensable condition for the stable economic and political development of all countries in the region and a guarantee of the preservation of peace and security in Europe as a whole.
FOOD SECURITY IN RUSSIA IN THE CONTEXT OF CLIMATE CHANGE
Authors:   INION RAN, Polozhikhina Maria
Published: June 2021

Climate conditions remain one of the main risk factors for domestic agriculture, and the consequences of global climate change are ambiguous in terms of prospects for agricultural production in Russia. This paper analyzes the impact of climate change on the country’s food security from the point of view of its self-sufficiency in grain primarily. Specific conditions prevailing on the Crimean peninsula are also considered.
IRAN-SYRIA: FACTORS OF COOPERATION AND RAPPROCHEMENT
Authors: Kirichenko Vladimir
Published: June 2021

The article is about Iran-Syria relations. Bilateral ties between these countries were not friendly under Shah Reza Pahlavi (1919-1980), despite a thaw in relations in the 1970s. Having lost the U.S. support, Iran needed allies immediately after the Islamic revolution (1978-1979), which led to a rapprochement with Syria. The Iranian leadership also shared the Syrian point of view regarding Israel. All these factors have encouraged the bilateral ties strengthening. Iran has supported Bashar al-Assad's regime, providing Syria with both financial and military assistance since the beginning of the Syrian crisis (2011).
Short Communication Flour Properties of Whole and Dehulled Mung Beans (Vigna radiata) and Development of Food Gels Incorporated with Kithul (Caryota urenus) Flour
Authors: Vindika S , Wijesekara I
Published: June 2021

In the present study, proximate and flour properties including thermogravimetric (TGA/DSC) and X-ray defraction (XRD) analysis of whole and dehulled mung bean (Vigna radiata) flours were studied. Moreover, food gels were developed from whole and dehulled mung bean flours with incorporating Kithul palm (Caryota urenus) flour without adding sugar and artificial food additives. According to the proximate analysis, whole Mung bean flour contains (%, dry weight basis); carbohydrates 62.67±0.23, and proteins 29.39±1.52 while hulled mung bean contains (%); carbohydrate 66.27±0.75, and proteins 28.0±4.61 proteins. The TGA/DSC and XRD resulted similar pattern for both whole and hulled mung bean flours. The food gels developed from hulled mung bean flour resulted higher syneresis (18%) than gels from whole mung beans (7%). However, food gels from hulled mung bean flour with incorporated Kithul flour were ranked the highest organoleptic acceptance according to the sensory evaluation. Collectively, the results of the current study suggested that local mung bean flour could be a potential ingredient to develop food gels with incorporating Kithul flour as novel functional foods. The compositional analysis of developed mung bean food gels is in progress. Keywords: food gels, mung bean flour, value-addition, Vigna radiata
Mineral Content of Selected Seaweed Varieties in Southern and North Western Sea of Sri Lanka
Authors: Jayakody M.M , Vanniarachchy M.P.G , Wijesekara W.L.I
Published: June 2021

Seaweeds are a rich source of health beneficial bioactive nutraceuticals and currently, they are under-utilised in Sri Lanka. Thus, this study is to get an idea about the possibility of utilising seaweed in Sri Lankan food industry. In the present study, elemental composition analysis of Ulva fasciata obtained from 3 locations Mirissa (5°56/40.5// N: 80°27/20.2// E), Point Dondra (5°55/45.7//N: 80°35/02.5// E) and Galle (6°02/01.1// N: 80°12/52.2// E) and red algae varieties Gracilaria edulis and Gracilaria sp. obtained from Kalpitiya (8°15/40.8// N: 79°46/33.9// E and 8°13/35.0// N: 79°43/34.8// E) respectively. The elemental analysis was carried using X-ray fluorescence (XRF) analyzer. The results revealed that the predominant mineral of U. fasciata obtained from the 3 locations and Gracilaria sp. as calcium. While the predominant mineral in G. edulis was potassium. All the 5 varieties have various concentrations of elements such as K, Ca, Mn, Fe, Cu and Zn. Significantly high lead content was observed in U. fasciata obtained from Point Dondra. The elemental compositions showed variations among the same species obtained from different locations. The results also revealed that seaweed is a good source of certain essential and trace minerals. Keywords: Ulva fasciata, Gracilaria edulis, Gracilaria sp., minerals, seaweeds
Bioconversion of Single Cell Protein from Underutilised Seaweed Turbinaria sp. using Natural Palmyrah Toddy Yeast
Authors: Shayanthavi S , Kapilan R
Published: June 2021

This study was aimed to produce Single Cell Protein (SCP) from underutilied, abundantly found marine seaweed Turbinaria sp. using natural yeast from palmyrah (Borassus flabellifer) toddy. Turbinaria sp. were collected, sun-dried, ground to powder form and Turbinaria solution was made by mixing distilled water and this was used as a growth medium throughout the experiment without adding any supplements. The experiments were performed in a shaking incubator with the fermentation medium of Turbinaria sp. 100 g/L (10%) inoculated with 10 mL natural palmyrah toddy. Fermentation was carried out at 29o C for 72 h and the crude protein content was determined using Kjeldahl apparatus (38.46%). When the growth temperature was optimised at 35o C, crude protein yield obtaine was significantly increased by 1.36 times than the initial non-optimised condition with temperature 27oC. When fermentation time was optimised as 48 h (44.33%), crude protein yield was significantly increased by 1.14 times than the initial fermentation time (24 h-38.55%). When different combinations of Turbinaria sp. media and inoculum ratio (55:05, 50:10, 40:20, 30:30 and 20:40) were used as medium, crude protein yield was significantly increased by 1.44 times (50:10-43.72%) than the initial media inoculum ratio (55:05-30.21%). When initial pH of the media was changed (5.0, 6.0, 7.0, 8.0 and 9.0), significantly higher relative crude protein yield was obtained with the initial pH value 6.0 (Turbinaria medium-90.97%). Amino acid analysis revealed that the SCP produced from the Turbinaria medium had all the essential amino acids with comparatively higher amount of methionine (3.9%) and lower amount of threonine (0.2%). Vitamin B analysis revealed that SCP yield from Turbinaria medium contained thiamin (0.85 mg/100 g) and riboflavin (3.2 mg/100 g). After the optimisation of culture growing conditions and media composition, SCP production from the excessively grown, underutilised seaweed Turbinaria, was significantly increased by 1.13 times (from 38.46 to 43.72%) with palmyrah toddy mix. Key words: crude protein, palmyrah toddy mix, single cell protein (SCP), Turbinaria sp.
RESEARCH OF HEALTH AS A COMPONENT OF LABOR POTENTIAL OF THE COUNTRY BY METHODS OF ECONOMETRIC ANALYSIS
Authors: Olena Nikolaieva
Published: June 2021

The population health indicator, which has an impact on the development of labor potential and its demographic component, has been studied. A correlation analysis of the factors influencing the state of health of the population was performed. It has been proven that there is a strong relationship between life expectancy as an indicator of health and the factors that characterize the health care system, economic development of the state, quality of food and lifestyle. Spatial econometric models of the relationship between effective variable life expectancy and factor characteristics of different nature based on statistical material from 38 European countries were created. The obtained models have high values of adequacy and accuracy criteria, as well as satisfactory predictive quality.