bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Human Defensins from Antivirals to Vaccine Adjuvants: Rediscovery of the Innate Immunity Arsenal
Authors: Zupin Luisa , Crovella Sergio
Published: November 2021

:

Human defensins are a class of antimicrobial peptides, belonging to the innate immunity
system. These peptides are expressed at the level of respiratory tract (both upper and lower) where
they represent the first line of defense against pathogens; they are also known for their activity
against different viruses, acting through diverse mechanisms, including direct binding to the virus,
inhibition of viral replication, and aggregation of virions. It has been recently reported they are also
effective against SARS-CoV-2. Moreover, they influence the immune response stimulating it in
the challenge against microorganisms. An intriguingly potential application of defensin is related
to their use as vaccine adjuvants; indeed, some in silico studies suggested their efficacy in boosting
the immune response. Since the long-term persistence of acquired immunity against SARS-CoV-2
triggered by the currently employed vaccines is not known, natural agents with enhancing effects,
such as defensins, administered with the vaccine, can be an interesting and attractive alternative.
The Application of a Recombinant Antimicrobial Peptide of
Thrombocidin-1 Expressed in Pichia pastoris as a Novel Approach Against
Some Oral Pathogenic Bacteria: An In Vitro Study
Authors: Forouzanfar Fatemeh , Mohammadipour Hamideh Sadat , Akbari Majid , Beyraghshamshir Reza , Tanhaeian Abbas , Karimian Elnaz
Published: November 2021

Objective:

Oral infections and dental caries are considered serious health problems.
Therefore, searching for new agents with antimicrobial properties seems to be crucial. This study
aimed to evaluate the antimicrobial activity of the recombinant Thrombocidin-1 [TC-1] peptide on
some oral pathogens. Also, the cytotoxicity of this peptide on human gingival fibroblast cells was
investigated.

Methods & Materials:

In this study, Pichia pastoris was used for the expression of recombinant
TC-1. The microbroth dilution method was used to determine the minimum inhibitory concentration
[MIC] and minimum bacterial concentration [MBC]. It tested against four main oral pathogens;
Streptococcus mutans, Streptococcus salivarius, Streptococcus oralis, and Enterococcus faecalis.
Moreover, the cytotoxicity analysis was done on gingival fibroblast cells by the MTT
method. The data were analyzed using a two-way analysis of variance [ANOVA] and Tukey’s
HSD tests.

Results:

The most bactericidal effect of TC-1 was against S. salivarius, the highest bacteriostatic effect
was against S. salivarius, and S. oralis had the lowest MIC value of 1.512 μg/ml. The Thrombocidin-
1 peptide showed lower antibacterial properties against E. faecalis compared with CHX,
unlike the stronger antimicrobial effect on examined streptococci. According to cytotoxicity examination,
no concentration of TC-1 presented over 50% growth inhibition [IC50] of the fibroblasts
cells.

Conclusion:

Based on antimicrobial tests and cytotoxicity results, the Thrombocidin-1 peptide
may be useful as a safe antibacterial agent against some oral pathogens in dental materials.
Role of Mitochondrial Membrane Potential and Lactate Dehydrogenase A in
Apoptosis
Authors: Zaib Sumera , Khan Imtiaz , Hayyat Aqsa , Ali Naba , Gul Asma , Naveed Muhammad
Published: November 2021

:

Apoptosis is a programmed cell death that occurs due to the production of several catabolic enzymes. During
this process, several morphological and biochemical changes occur in mitochondria, the main organelle in the cell
that participates in apoptosis and controls apoptotic pathways. During apoptosis, cytochrome c is released from mitochondria,
and different proteins activate caspase cascades that carry out the cell towards the death process. Apoptosis
mainly occurs due to p53 protein that allows the abnormal cells to proliferate. Bcl-2 and Bcl-xl are two anti-apoptotic
members of the protein family that prevents apoptosis. The membrane potential of mitochondria decreases by the opening
of the permeability transition pore (PTP). These PTP are formed by the binding of Bax with adenine nucleotide
translocator (ANT) and cause depolarization in the membrane. The depolarization releases apoptogenic factors (cytochrome
c) that result in the loss of oxidative phosphorylation. Knockdown in lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) is the cause
of the decrease in mitochondrial membrane potential elevating the levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and Bax.
Consequently, causing an increase in the release of cytochrome c that ultimately leads to apoptosis. In this review, we
have summarized the combined effect of mitochondrial membrane potential and LDH enzyme that triggers apoptosis in
cells and their role in the mechanism of apoptosis.
The COVID-19 Saga: Myths, Allegories and the Aftermath for Contemporary and Future Practice
Authors: Papazoglou Andreas S. , Tsagkaris Christos , Moysidis Dimitrios V. , Alexiou Athanasios , Vourvoulakis Georgios
Published: November 2021

The mythical fight of Heracles against the Hydra presents an allegory to the fight of humanity against the COVID-19 pandemic. The rational interpretation of the myth can help people understand the intricacies of the management of healthcare crises. Combined with this, the myth can also create respect for healthcare workers and inspire individuals to take positive action in the fight against COVID-19. Although myths have been regarded as a threat to public health, mythological elements and allegories can become potent tools of health promotion.
Marijuana’s Changing Legal Landscape and Its Implications for
Adolescent Psychiatrists: A Report from California
Authors: Ponton Lynn , Judice Samuel L. , Petti Theodore
Published: November 2021

Background Objectives:

Thirty-three states and the District of Columbia
(DC) have enacted some form of legalized cannabis or cannabinoid for medical
conditions (MMJ), 11 of them and DC for recreational use. It has become critical
for psychiatrists and other mental health professionals working with adolescents to
be aware of the diversion of marijuana (MJ) to youth and subsequent potential
adverse effects in environments with widely different regulations. The experience
of two office-based psychiatrists in California (the first state to legalize MMJ)
through case presentations and an informal practice review illustrate the role that
diverted MMJ plays in the clinical presentation of youth for psychiatric care,
highlighting clinical implications and guidelines for treators as states legalize MJ
for adult recreational use.

Methods:

Two child and adolescent psychiatrists practicing in California over the
last twenty years report on their experiences working with adolescent patients and
their families during the period of legalized MMJ. After a comprehensive literature
review, they report their clinical observations and make recommendations for
treators of adolescents.

Discussion:

There is general confusion among adolescents and their parents about
MJ and MMJ. There is a lack of clear regulatory guidelines and a need for better
clinical training for prescribing physicians. Diversion of MMJ to teens during periods
of legalization of medical marijuana is common in states where it has not been
legislated or regulated sufficiently to provide effective safeguards. This lax approach
is demonstrated by our case reports and clinical review. Similar experiences have
been reported elsewhere. Increased problems with diversion are expected as
legalization efforts continue. Professionals and their organizations need to become
more active in advocating policies to protect youth from potential harm related to
cannabis use and abuse and carefully evaluate its use among their teen patients.
Synthesis of Hexahydroxy Strontium Stannate/Tin Dioxide Nanocomposites and their Photocatalytic Properties for Gentian Violet
Authors: Yu Chunhu , Xue Zeyang , Mao Yajing , Huang Jianfeng , Tao Feihu , Cai Zhengyu , Fan Chuangang , Pei Lizhai
Published: November 2021

Background:

Gentian violet dye released from industries into the environment has
caused serious water pollution and is a significant environmental pollutant to human beings owing
to the toxicity. It is urgent to decrease environmental pollution by removing gentian violet in
the wastewater.

Objective:

The aim is to synthesize hexahydroxy strontium stannate/tin dioxide nanocomposites
by a simple hydrothermal method without surfactants and research the photocatalytic performance
for gentian violet degradation.

Methods:

Hexahydroxy strontium stannate/tin dioxide nanocomposites have been obtained via
the hydrothermal method. The structure, size, morphology and photocatalytic performance were
characterized by X-ray diffraction, electron microscopy, solid ultraviolet-visible diffuse reflectance
spectroscopy and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy.

Results:

The nanocomposites possess oven-shaped morphology with the size of less than 100
nm and are composed of hexagonal SrSn(OH)6 and tetragonal SnO2 phases. The band gap of the
nanocomposites is 3.52 eV. 10 mg hexahydroxy strontium stannate/tin dioxide nanocomposites
have the ability to completely degrade 10 mL gentian violet solution with the concentration of
10 mgL-1 under 6 h ultraviolet-visible light irradiation. Hydroxyl radical, hole and superoxide
radical are the main species for the gentian violet photocatalytic degradation using the nanocomposites.

Conclusion:

The hexahydroxy strontium stannate/tin dioxide nanocomposites show good photocatalytic
performance for the GV degradation. The photocatalytic performance for gentian
violet degradation using the hexahydroxy strontium stannate/tin dioxide nanocomposites depends
on the irradiation time and content of the nanocomposites.
Proto-Austronesian historical relations on the development of the proto-melayic aspect of Malay with Lampung language
Authors: Aminin Sudirman , Dacholfany Muhammad Ihsan
Published: November 2021

The purpose of this paper is to determine the facts of language that have historical relations in comparative diachronic linguistics studies. The existence of the Lampung language (LL) as a reflection of the Proto *WPM was initially studied by Dyen 1965 and has been conservative for four decades or forty years old. During those four decades, apart from Dyen 1965, the research results showed 89.1% (Figure 0); there is also Walker's (1976) inference at the observation point of Way Lima Lampung used 200 Swadesh Vocabulary Lexicon, the calculation result is 82.2%. Furthermore, Sudirman and Fernandez, the National Seminar on Austronesian Language and Culture II, studied the "Status of the Komering Isolect in the LL Group" the results of the 82.16 % Dialectometric Lexicostatistics calculations were close to the results of Walker's previous study of 82.2%, so that the historical relation of the isolect with the status of a conservative dialect can be observed in Figure 2. In addition to conservative results, there are also innovative results, namely the occurrence of share retentions and share innovations shown by the results of the 48.5% Dialectometric Lexicostatistics calculation as the realization of the historical relation between  Malay Language (ML) and Lampung Language (LL).
Judicial power development issues in Russian conservative legal ideology during the second half of the XIX-th century
Authors: Konareva Irina A. , Baboshina Elena V. , Matyusheva Tatiana N. , Rasskazov Vyacheslav L. , Treskov Aleksej P.
Published: November 2021

The political and legal ideology of Russian conservatism becomes more and more popular in modern conditions. This scientific work is devoted to the study of the political and legal positions of Russian conservatives in the second half of the 19th century, who made a significant impact on the development of legal science. The problem of judiciary development is taken as a basis. The purpose of the study is to analyze the positions of Russian scholars and public and political figures who proposed a special concept of views regarding the place and role of the judiciary in the state mechanism of the Russian Empire during the second half of the 19th century. The hypothesis of the study is the presentation of a special approach to the consideration of conservative ideology in relation to the creation and organizational activity of the judicial system through the prism of national problems that developed in the Russian Empire during the second half of the 19th century. The methodological basis of the study is made up of general scientific, private, as well as special methods of cognition.
Utilization of open educational resources (OERs) among college students affiliated to Alagappa university in India
Authors: Nagaiah M. , Thanuskodi S.
Published: November 2021

The world is now paralyzed by covid-19 (2021). UNESCO estimates that there are more than 1.5 billion students in 165 countries and that 87% of the world's students are at risk of contracting the covid-19 pandemics. Open education resources help students continue to study in such situations. This article provides information on what are open education resources, how to use open education resources, and what to do for research. Furthermore, this research report is about how Alagappa University students use open education resources and how it benefits them. What are the barriers they face to obtain OER information? This study aims to provide students with a brief overview of awareness and use of open education resources. A sample of the respondents was prepared from Alagappa University students. Questionnaires were made by Google Forms. A total of 245 Google Forms were sent to students via WhatsApp and Gmail, and 121 students responded. Frequency of use of OER: 72 students use OER daily, 18 students use it twice a week, 27 students use it weekly and 4 students use it monthly.
University graduate career potential in digital transformation period
Authors: Prozorova Mariya N. , Zharkov Anatoly D. , Zharkova Alena A. , Khamdamova Vinera A. , Sattorova Sarvinoz O. , Losev Valerii S.
Published: November 2021

The student personal and professional development becomes even more meaningful and, based on the peculiarities of the world development in general, becomes one of the most important tasks of modern higher education, the main goal and direction of which is based on humanistic-personal orientation. Building a career is one of the main concerns not only for working professionals, but also for potential employees, including graduates who are on the cusp of entering professional life.  The article aims to identify the characteristics of the career potential of university graduates. A questionnaire method was used as a research method allowing effective identifying of the perceptions’ characteristics about a graduate's career potential.  The article identifies student opportunities for self-actualization and self-realization in the professional environment in a time of digital transformation of various spheres of life. The authors of the experiment revealed that graduates who showed high levels of readiness for career development have a more formed idea of the desires associated with the development of their career potential, the goals of their activities, and aspire, seek new things, constantly are engaged in self-development.
Social dimension of modern higher school teachers` personality
Authors: Egorychev Aleksandr M. , Akhtyan Anna G. , Ananishnev Vladimir M. , Levina Irina D. , Suyskaya Valeriya S. , Tyutchenko Aleksandr M.
Published: November 2021

This research deals with an important state and public problem concerning the expertise of higher school teachers; according to the authors, the latter is determined by their formation level of the social dimension of personality. In the paper, issues are discussed touching on the essence and content of the social dimension of personality in relation to teachers of modern higher educational institutions in their professional activity. The paper covers requirements set for teachers of modern higher educational institutions, problems, and controversies preventing Russian higher school from developing efficiently, etc. The objective of the research consisted in providing grounds for the necessity of making the focus area associated with the formation and development of higher school teachers' social dimension relevant within the Russian education system (in terms of theory and practice). Conceptual statements on the development of consciousness and worldview of higher educational institution teachers within their professional activity are substantiated. Similarly, so are provisions on adoption, acceptance, and inclusion of meanings and values of the Russian culture into the educational process, as well as on the teachers' understanding their state and public mission as serving their Motherland.
effect of learning strategy and cognitive style on student’s narrative writing ability
Authors: Tambi Tata , Murtadho Fathiaty , Rafli Zainal
Published: November 2021

In the class, most of the teacher use a single teaching strategy to students who have different cognitive styles when teaching narrative essays in the class. Therefore, it is necessary to improve teaching strategies in the teaching and learning process. The teaching strategies that fit with the cognitive style of students in order that the learning objective is improved. This paper investigates the effect of learning strategy and cognitive style on student’s narrative writing ability. This study was conducted on the VII grade students at Madrasah Tsanawiyah Ibnu Taimiyah Bogor, West Java. Treatment by level design and two-factorial ANOVA analysis with ? = 0.05 were applied in this experimental study. The sample was 40 students grouped into experiment classes and 40 students was grouped into control classes. There was a different ability in narrative writing in Bahasa Indonesia between students having field independent cognitive style (A1) and students having field dependent cognitive style (A2).  Results of two-way interrow analysis of variance showed that Fcalculated (4.123) was higher than Ftable (3.97) at a significant level  of ? = 0.05.
Instruments for the development of the country's export potential
Authors: Dooranov Almazbek , Asanova Aysalkyn , Zhumaliyeva Zhyldyzkan , Pyroh Olha , Duliaba Nataliia , Kolinko Nataliia
Published: November 2021

In the context of accelerating globalization and integration trends in the world economic system, countries must make efforts to form their advantageous positions in the international division of labour. This can be realized by optimizing the sphere of foreign economic activity of the state. The purpose of the article is to substantiate the areas of improvement of strategic tools to develop the country's export potential. The authors analyzed the theoretical and methodological basis, namely the essence of the country's export potential, its structural elements of the export potential. The authors analyzed the structure of exports of Kyrgyzstan and Ukraine in 2020, highlighted their common features, shortcomings and explained why the specialization of exports is not optimal. The authors found that a systematic approach to developing a country's development strategy requires a specific sequence in the implementation of this process and proposed an algorithm for implementing the concept of developing the country's export potential, and also proposed calculating a comprehensive indicator of export potential, a more detailed description of which will be presented in further studies.
Two dominant security concepts in Europe and its influence on Ukraine
Authors: Lysenko Serhii O. , Veklych Vladislav O. , Kocherov Myhailo V. , Servetskiy Ivan V. , Arifkhodzhaieva Tetiana B.
Published: November 2021

The article is devoted to the analysis of two dominant security concepts in the modern world. Given the long bipolarity of the world, due to the dominance of the Horde and Westphalian concepts of security, the question arises about the place of Ukraine in this coordinate system. In the process of research, a historical analysis of the emergence, formation and dissemination of two, alternative concepts of security, which are characteristic of countries with different governance models. It was found that Russia and China, given the geographical and geopolitical situation and the peculiarities of the historical process, adapted and creatively refined the Horde concept of security inherent in the state of Genghis Khan. Instead, Western European countries, and later the United States, formed a concept of security based on the principles laid down by the Westphalian system in the seventeenth century. The main features of the Horde concept of security (according to H. Chkhartishvili), which is based on strict centralization, sacredness of the ruler's personality and the dominance of privileges over rights, are highlighted.
Gastronomic tourism
Authors: Nesterchuk Inna , Balabanyts Anzhelika , Pivnova Liliia , Matsuka Viktoriia , Skarha Oleksandra , Kondratenko Iryna
Published: November 2021

The article examines the concept and features of gastronomic tourism, its history and its importance in the modern world. It is noted that gastronomic tourism meets all the requirements in the transition from a service economy to an experience economy. The basis of gastronomic tourism is an authentic product identified by territorial characteristics and can attract tourists to the region. The uniqueness of gastro tourism is highlighted as it links such as policy development and integrated planning, product development and packaging, promotion and marketing, distribution and sales, and operations and services in tourism destinations, which are key core activities in the tourism value chain. Ancillary activities related to the gastronomic product include transport and infrastructure, human resource development, technology and systems of other ancillary goods and services, which may not be associated with the leading tourism business but have a significant impact on the value of tourism. The article discusses in detail the strategic plan for the development of gastro-tourism, which includes the following phases: analysis and diagnosis of the situation; general strategic planning; operational planning; informing and disseminating the plan.
aspects of international communication
Authors: Mishchenko Alla , Shevel Inna , Likarchuk Daria , Shevchenko Marina
Published: November 2021

The article is intended to the analysis of geopolitical, conflict-related, strategic interests of Ukraine, which can be realized within the framework of the South vector of the state geopolitics through rational and pragmatic cooperation with the trans-regional leader of the region – Turkey. The purpose of the study is to identify priority areas of cooperation between Ukraine and Turkey in the Black Sea region for the effective implementation of geostrategic interests of Ukraine, and the regularity of development of systems in political defense of states during crises and modern military-political conflicts. The use of interdisciplinary approach and methods of analytical, comparative analysis made it possible to study and analyze the evolution of the value-ideological loads which dominate the implementation of Eastern or Western geopolitical vectors. The necessity to take into account political, social, and conflict-related imbalances and integration constraints revealed the pragmatic direction of the implementation of an equidistant foreign policy of a three-dimensional format which can be viewed as an alternative vector of bilateral cooperation with Turkey, a joint position with which will ensure accelerated development of Ukraine and will help avoid pressure from the European Union and the Russian Federation.
Understanding of Islamic banking financial management in the context of global economic competition
Authors: Suyanto Suyanto , Lestari Novi Puji , Yulianti Eka Budi , Yusroni Nanang , Chadhiq Umar
Published: November 2021

The authors believe that understanding Islamic banking financial governance at a globally competitive level is an exciting issue in global economic studies. We have carried out the completeness of the data and the discussion from various sources of information and economic data. Furthermore, our understanding efforts were made to find solutions in answering questions and problems in the context of this study by involving a comprehensive study of economics review, involving a system of data analysis, evaluation, and in-depth conclusion drawing. We carry out this study is in a qualitative type of study relying on secondary data in the form of evidence from previous studies, which we consider valid and updated in response to the problems and questions of this study. Based on the existing data supported by the evidence of previous findings, we found that Islamic banking financial governance in the context of a globally competitive economy is an exciting issue for the parties because the world today is questioned by the failure of the conventional capitalist economy in contributing solutions to the world community. Other findings are very relevant to be discussed and become an essential theme in competitive economics, especially Islamic economics.
La Cité Internationale Universitaire de París: un siglo de arquitecturas al interior de una ciudad-jardín
Authors:   Université Paris 1 Panthéon-Sorbonne, Francia, Avila Gómez Andrés
Published: November 2021

En un acto celebrado el 9 de mayo de 1923, el industrial y filántropo Emile Deutsch de la Meurthe (1847-1924) instalaba la primera piedra del conjunto urbano situado en el distrito 14° al sur de París, conocido desde entonces como Cité Internationale Universitaire de Paris (CIUP).
PERSONAL EMPOWERMENT AS DETERMINANTS OF ORGANISATIONAL OPPORTUNITY
Authors: Abu Bakar Aisyah , Mohamed Osman Mariana , Abdullah Muhammad Faris
Published: November 2021

Architects can influence workplace behaviours and manoeuvre workers’ emotions through aligning design strategies with human moods. Design sustains organisational well-being through strengthening space occupants’ empowerment, leading to better work performances. Issue: Existing research has limited empirical evidence on the impact of personal empowerment (PE) on organisational opportunity (OO). Purpose: This paper aims to verify the statistical predictability of OO based on PE. Approach: Multiple Correlation and Multiple Linear Regression were carried out to assess linear associations and parameters of linear equations to predict OO components based on PE items. Findings: OO components were predictable by the majority of the PE items and ‘monitoring behaviours to suit with situation’ was the strongest predictor of OO.
PREDICTABILITY OF POSITIVE RELATIONSHIPS THROUGH PERSONAL EMPOWERMENT
Authors: Abu Bakar Aisyah , Mohamed Osman Mariana , Abdullah Muhammad Faris
Published: November 2021

Designers have long adopted the knowledge from the field of psychology to expand architectural space’s emotional impacts. Appropriate design strategies can improve and sustain well-being through instilling the sense of empowerment, leading to positive relationships among space occupants. Issue: A large body of the literature has sought to provide a conclusive empirical assessment on the predictability of attitudes and behaviours in positive relationships (PR) through personal empowerment (PE). Purpose: This paper intends to determine the predictability of PR based on PE. Approach: Multiple Correlation and MultipleLinear Regression were conducted to estimate linear associations and parameters of linear equations to predict PR components based on PE items. Findings: Components of PR were predictable by the majority of the PE items and ‘monitoring behaviours to suit with situation’ was the strongest predictor of PR.
USERS’ PERCEPTION ON CHILDREN AT MASJID – PLANNING FOR CHILDREN FRIENDLY MASJID
Authors: Abu Bakar Aniza , Zulkifely Zur Atiqa , Abd. Majid Noor Hanita , Ibrahim Mohd Burhan
Published: November 2021

Masjid is an important institution to know Allah SWT, empower, and unite society. Early exposure of children to masjid is crucial as nurturing them to love masjid is a process towards loving the creator, strengthening their faith, and improving akhlaq (behaviour) towards becoming a good Muslim and eventually forming a stable society and nation. However, there have been some negative perceptions on the presence of young children in masjid among the jamaah (congregational members). This discourages families in engaging their young children with masjid as early as possible. Eventually, it would hinder them from learning high values of Islam that would strengthen their faith, shape good character, and akhlaq. This study aims to identify the perception of the parents or guardian that bring children to masjid as well as other jamaah on the presence of children at masjid through a structured questionnaire survey with random sampling approach. Eight masjids within the urban area of Kuala Lumpur and Selangor were involved with the target of fifty respondents each. 55.2% of the 400 respondents were parents/guardians that bring children to the masjid. The findings suggest that respondents welcome the presence of children at masjid asit is deemed suitable as a place for children's education and that masjid should provide educational programmes for them. Crying and playing children seem to distract the jamaah. Hence they feel designated spaces for children is deemed necessary.
Procesos de Urbanización Popular y Derecho a la Ciudad en el Oriente de la Zona Metropolitana del Valle de México
Authors: Castillo-Álvarez Rubén Marcelo
Published: November 2021

El objetivo es analizar el proceso de urbanización popular, sus formas de gestión territorial y las prácticas sociales encaminadas a refrendar el derecho a la ciudad. Se examinan dos casos: el primero sobre colonias populares y el segundo en una comunidad indígena triqui, ambas experiencias localizadas en el oriente de la Zona Metropolitana del Valle de México. La metodología empleada es con base en el análisis documental de dos investigaciones que tratan de los procesos urbanos populares. Se concluye que, debido a la escasa intervención urbana del Estado, los pobladores crean sus propias prácticas sociales en busca de alcanzar el derecho a la ciudad.
Assessment of Mineral Gain in White Spot Lesions Using CPP-ACP and CPP-ACFP in Different Clinical Protocols: A Proof of Concept Study
Authors:   School of Dentistry, The University of Queensland, Herston QLD 4006, Australia, Tran Carol , Walsh Laurence J. ,   Current Affiliation: Central Queensland University, Rockhampton QLD 4740, Australia
Published: November 2021

Subsurface remineralization can be promoted by the topical application of nanoparticles of casein phosphopeptide-amorphous calcium phosphate (CPP-ACP). To assess changes in enamel white spot lesions, an in situ proof-of-concept investigation was performed using 5 subjects (all of whom were healthy young adults) with a cross-over study design. Custom orthodontic brackets were attached to the buccal surfaces of the maxillary second premolar and first molar teeth. Each bracket had a recess that held a slab of enamel with a standardized 100 μm deep white spot lesion (WSL). Changes in mineral were evaluated in lesion cross sections using backscatter electron imaging (BSE) and electron probe microanalysis (EPMA). The following products were applied twice daily for 2 weeks: GC Tooth Mousse™ (CPP-ACP), Tooth Mousse Plus™ (CPP-ACFP), CPP-ACFP Mineral Enhanced (CPP-ACFP Enh), or the vehicle paste of CPP-ACFP containing 900 ppm fluoride. To ensure blinding, all products had identical flavours and packaging. For each subject, the products were used in a random sequence, with washout periods between products. Compared to the baseline situation, favourable changes in white spot lesions occurred with all products. Analysis of enamel samples in cross section showed improvements in mineral levels, as seen in BSE grey scale levels from the enamel surface through the lesion. These were accompanied by enhanced calcium and phosphorus levels as seen using EPMA. The ranking of products for subsurface mineral gain, from best to worst, was: CPP-ACFP = CPP-ACFP Enh > CPP-ACP > vehicle with fluoride. Rapid remineralization occurred in this clinical model, which is due to a combination of factors: the enamel slabs were located on tooth surfaces exposed to parotid saliva, the surfaces were brushed regularly to remove dental plaque biofilm, and compliance with twice daily topical use of products was high. Such model systems may be useful for screening new product formulations for their effect on enamel WSL.
Guía para el reconocimiento y manejo de las principales plagas de aguacate cv. Hass en Colombia
Authors: Carabalí Muñoz Arturo , Caicedo Vallejo Ana Milena , Holguín Claudia María
Published: November 2021

Esta Guía permite la rápida identificación y conocimiento en campo de las principales plagas (insectos y ácaros) del aguacate en Colombia, en especial, del cultivar Hass. Además de los referentes fotográficos, la Guía resume aspectos básicos relevantes para reconocer las plagas de importancia económica y las plagas cuarentenarias. Estas últimas, desde el punto de vista de la aplicación y validación de los planes de trabajo desarrollados por el Instituto Colombiano Agropecuario (ICA).
The Plebeian Algorithm: A Democratic Approach to Censorship and Moderation
Authors: Fedoruk Benjamin , Nelson Harrison , Frost Russell , Fucile Ladouceur Kai
Published: November 2021

Background

The infodemic created by the COVID-19 pandemic has created several societal issues, including a rise in distrust between the public and health experts, and even a refusal of some to accept vaccination; some sources suggest that 1 in 4 Americans will refuse the vaccine. This social concern can be traced to the level of digitization today, particularly in the form of social media.

Objective

The goal of the research is to determine an optimal social media algorithm, one which is able to reduce the number of cases of misinformation and which also ensures that certain individual freedoms (eg, the freedom of expression) are maintained. After performing the analysis described herein, an algorithm was abstracted. The discovery of a set of abstract aspects of an optimal social media algorithm was the purpose of the study.

Methods

As social media was the most significant contributing factor to the spread of misinformation, the team decided to examine infodemiology across various text-based platforms (Twitter, 4chan, Reddit, Parler, Facebook, and YouTube). This was done by using sentiment analysis to compare general posts with key terms flagged as misinformation (all of which concern COVID-19) to determine their verity. In gathering the data sets, both application programming interfaces (installed using Python’s pip) and pre-existing data compiled by standard scientific third parties were used.

Results

The sentiment can be described using bimodal distributions for each platform, with a positive and negative peak, as well as a skewness. It was found that in some cases, misinforming posts can have up to 92.5% more negative sentiment skew compared to accurate posts.

Conclusions

From this, the novel Plebeian Algorithm is proposed, which uses sentiment analysis and post popularity as metrics to flag a post as misinformation. This algorithm diverges from that of the status quo, as the Plebeian Algorithm uses a democratic process to detect and remove misinformation. A method was constructed in which content deemed as misinformation to be removed from the platform is determined by a randomly selected jury of anonymous users. This not only prevents these types of infodemics but also guarantees a more democratic way of using social media that is beneficial for repairing social trust and encouraging the public’s evidence-informed decision-making.
Comparison Between Male and Female Survivors of Sexual Abuse and Assault in Relation to Age at Admission to Therapy, Age of Onset, and Age at Last Sexual Assault: Retrospective Observational Study (Preprint)
Authors: AL-Asadi Ali M
Published: November 2021

BACKGROUND

Sexual abuse and sexual assault are complex phenomena that involve many factors (or correlates) and have many health and financial implications for individuals, families, and society. Every correlate needs to be studied in detail, individually and in relation to other correlates. Only with a thorough understanding of these correlates can more efficient and targeted prevention and intervention programs be designed.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to examine the differences between male and female survivors of sexual abuse and sexual assault regarding the correlates of the survivors’ age of onset of assault, age at the last assault, and age at which they entered therapy.

METHODS

Therapists at eight sexual assault centers in the province of Alberta, Canada, completed a questionnaire on each of their clients over a period of 7 years. A total of 3302 participants, of whom 2901 (87.86%) were female and 401 (12.1%) were male survivors of sexual abuse and assault, were included in this study. Mostly descriptive analyses were carried out on the 4 variables of concern in this study.

RESULTS

Regarding the number of survivors who sought therapy, female survivors outnumbered male survivors by a ratio of 7:1, with different ratios for different age groups. As children age, their risk of being sexually assaulted for the first time decreases. Male children are more likely to be sexually abused at a younger age, whereas female children are more vulnerable to being assaulted at all ages, particularly in adolescence. The mean age of onset of sexual abuse was found to be 6.71 (SD 2.86) years, and the odds of experiencing the first sexual assault during childhood, as opposed to adolescence, were 4:1 for females and 9:1 for males. Male survivors were two times more likely than female survivors to experience their first sexual assault in childhood. The vast majority of survivors sought help many years after being sexually assaulted, and male survivors waited an average of 3 years longer from the last sexual assault before seeking therapy.

CONCLUSIONS

The majority of survivors of sexual abuse and sexual assault live with the consequences for many years before they seek help, and a large proportion of male survivors are not likely to seek help.
Mechanisms of Change in Digital Health Interventions for Mental Disorders in Youth: Systematic Review (Preprint)
Authors: Domhardt Matthias , Engler Sophie , Nowak Hannah , Lutsch Arne , Baumel Amit , Baumeister Harald
Published: November 2021

BACKGROUND

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

OBJECTIVE

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

METHODS

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

RESULTS

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

CONCLUSIONS

The findings of this review might guide the empirically informed advancement of DHIs, contributing to improved intervention outcomes, and the discussion of methodological recommendations for process research might facilitate mediation studies with more pertinent designs, allowing for conclusions with higher causal certainty in the future.
Effective Treatment Strategies for the Removal of Antibiotic-Resistant Bacteria, Antibiotic-Resistance Genes, and Antibiotic Residues in the Effluent From Wastewater Treatment Plants Receiving Municipal, Hospital, and Domestic Wastewater: Protocol for a Systematic Review (Preprint)
Authors: Alam Mahbub-Ul , Ferdous Sharika , Ercumen Ayse , Lin Audrie , Kamal Abul , Luies Sharmin Khan , Sharior Fazle , Khan Rizwana , Rahman Md Ziaur , Parvez Sarker Masud , Amin Nuhu , Tadesse Birkneh Tilahun , Moushomi Niharu Akter , Hasan Rezaul , Taneja Neelam , Islam Mohammad Aminul , Rahman Mahbubur
Published: November 2021

BACKGROUND

The widespread and unrestricted use of antibiotics has led to the emergence and spread of antibiotic-resistant bacteria (ARB), antibiotic-resistance genes (ARGs), and antibiotic residues in the environment. Conventional wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) are not designed for effective and adequate removal of ARB, ARGs, and antibiotic residues, and therefore, they play an important role in the dissemination of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in the natural environment.

OBJECTIVE

We will conduct a systematic review to determine the most effective treatment strategies for the removal of ARB, ARGs, and antibiotic residues from the treated effluent disposed into the environment from WWTPs that receive municipal, hospital, and domestic discharge.

METHODS

We will search the MEDLINE, EMBASE, Web of Science, World Health Organization Global Index Medicus, and ProQuest Environmental Science Collection databases for full-text peer-reviewed journal articles published between January 2001 and December 2020. We will select only articles published in the English language. We will include studies that measured (1) the presence, concentration, and removal rate of ARB/ARGs going from WWTP influent to effluent, (2) the presence, concentration, and types of antibiotics in the effluent, and (3) the possible selection of ARB in the effluent after undergoing treatment processes in WWTPs. At least two independent reviewers will extract data and perform risk of bias assessment. An acceptable or narrative synthesis method will be followed to synthesize the data and present descriptive characteristics of the included studies in a tabular form. The study has been approved by the Ethics Review Board at the International Centre for Diarrhoeal Disease Research, Bangladesh (protocol number: PR-20113).

RESULTS

This protocol outlines our proposed methodology for conducting a systematic review. Our results will provide an update to the existing literature by searching additional databases.

CONCLUSIONS

Findings from our systematic review will inform the planning of proper treatment methods that can effectively reduce the levels of ARB, ARGs, and residual antibiotics in effluent, thus lowering the risk of the environmental spread of AMR and its further transmission to humans and animals.

INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT

PRR1-10.2196/33365
Studying the strength of the tibia during the replacement of a post-resection defect with a segmental allograft using locked intramedullary nailing (experimental clinical study)
Authors: Vyrva O.E. , Golovina Ya.O. , Malik R.V. , Karpinsky M.Yu. , Karpinska O.D.
Published: November 2021

Background. To achieve success in the incorporation of allografts and bone of the recipient, many factors are taken into account, which can be divided into two main groups: those related to sterilization and processing of the bone allograft and factors affecting the reliability of implant fixation in the bone of the recipient. The second important factor is the method for fixing the allografts and the bone of the recipient. The purpose was to determine the mechanical properties of bone after segmental bone alloplasty. Materials and methods. Female patient Sh., 30 years old, diagnosed with osteosarcoma of the left distal tibia T2N0M0 GIII, degree II, clinical group II, underwent polychemotherapy courses, surgical intervention according to the developed method. The tumor was removed en block, a post-resection defect was replaced with an articulating segmental bone allograft, fixed to the recipient’s bone through a stepped osteotomy and an intramedullary locked nail. Bone autografts were additionally placed into the area of the allograft contact with the recipient’s bone. After 2 years, the patient underwent surgery: amputation at the left third of the thigh. Radiographically, fusion of the allograft and the recipient’s bone was noted. An experimental study of the tensile strength of the tibia after segmental alloplasty of a post-resection defect was carried out using the developed surgical technique and a segmental allograft. Results. To compare the results of an experimental study of the tibia preparation after segmental bone alloplasty, data about the values of the ultimate strength of the bone tissue under compression and bending loads were selected. As shown by the experiment, the ultimate strength of the tibia preparation after its bone alloplasty was 51.82 MPa. This value corresponds to the minimum ultimate strength of a compact bone in bending — 51 MPa. Although this is twice as low as the maximum value of the ultimate strength of a compact bone in bending (133 MPa), it should be borne in mind that all the given reference values were obtained when testing intact preparations of a compact bone. Conclusions. The use of a segmental bone allograft to replace a post-resection defect in a long bone with its fixation to the recipient’s bone through a stepped osteotomy and locked intramedullary nailing with additional bone autoplasty in the area of the allograft contact with the recipient’s bone makes it possible to obtain in the osteotomy zone the bone, the ultimate strength of which corresponds to that of the intact tissue.
Leading With Compassion: A Story of Women Grassroots Leadership Amidst COVID-19 and Coastal Flooding
Authors: Prasongko Dias , Wigke Capri Arti
Published: November 2021

This article elaborates on two important elements of women's leadership. First, it explores how leadership theory has abandoned its masculine perspective in favour of a "more feminine" one. The COVID-19 pandemic, a crisis that crippled the socio-political structure, has contributed to this shift. Second, the experiences of grassroots leaders who are active in the domestic sphere have begun to be considered, as has their increased activeness in the public sphere during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, studies of women's leadership are highly elitist; such a paradigm is problematic, as it prioritises formal power structures and ignores the grassroots leaders who play a central role in maintaining the social order. This research finds that the pandemic has provided a valuable impetus not only for studies of formal elites but also women at the grassroots. Women have become highly powerful agents in the domestic sphere during the pandemic, and even expanded their agency into the public sphere. Women leaders have facilitated the implementation of government and community crisis response measures at the grassroots level.