bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Usability of the Premature Newborn Clinical Assessment Scale (PNCAS) during pretransport preparation of newborns
Authors: Kovtun O. P. , Davydova N. S. , Mukhametshin R. F. , Kurganski A. A.
Published: April 2023

Purpose. To study the patient’s characteristics and hospital outcomes in subgroups depending on the PNCAS scale score.

Material and methods. The cohort study included data from 604 trips of the transport team to newborns hospitalized in medical organizations of the Sverdlovsk region from August 1, 2017, to December 31, 2018. Median birth weight [IQR] 2515 [1600; 3275] grams, median gestational age [IQR] 36 [32; 38] weeks. The total sample was divided into subgroups depending on the assessment of the score, followed by a comparison of characteristics and outcomes in these subgroups.

Results. There are significant differences in the structure of birth weight and gestational age, as the PNCAS score increases, there is a significant increase in the proportion of patients weighing less than 1000 grams and a decrease in the proportion of patients weighing 2500–3499 grams. The largest proportion of extremely premature newborns was observed in 6–8 points and 9–14 points subgroups, 30.16% and 24.00%, respectively. Assessment of the intensive care showed an increase in the proportion of patients requiring HFOV, dopamine and epinephrine infusion while increasing PNCAS score. Analysis of the outcomes showed a significant increase of mortality while increasing PNCAS score, 0.76% [0.02; 4.18] in the 0–2 points subgroup and 42.86% [21.82; 65.98] in the 9–14 points subgroup. There is also an increase in the proportion of patients who have formed severe IVH, 0.00% [0.00; 2.78] in the 0–2 points subgroup and 19.05% [5.45; 41.91] in the 9–14 points subgroup. A similar pattern is observed in the frequency of late onset sepsis.

Conclusion. The PNCAS scale we studied demonstrates a reliable division of patients by severity and predicts the outcomes of the hospital stage of treatment.
Barakat syndrome: clinical polymorphism of the disease
Authors: Zaikova N. M. , Morozov S. L. , Ryabova S. E. , Dlin V. V.
Published: April 2023

Barakat Syndrome (MIM#146255) is a rare autosomal dominant disease caused by GATA3 gene mutation and manifested by hypoparathyroidism (H), sensorineural deafness (D), and renal disease (R). HDR syndrome characterized by high clinical variability and prognosis. The exact prevalence of this disease is unknown, 180 cases are reported in the literature. Two clinical cases are presented. De novo heterozygous mutation in the GATA3 gene was detected in both patients. Our observations demonstrate variability of clinical phenotypes and poor prognosis in patients with Barakat Syndrome. The syndrome should be suspected in cases of early high-grade deafness and kidney disease presentation for the purpose of early diagnosis and appropriate therapy including the prevention of CKD progression.
R&D expenditure as a determinant of the aggregate innovation index in the V4 countries
Authors: Ivanová Eva , Žárská Veronika
Published: April 2023

Innovation is critical to modern economies’ development; new process requirements within Industry 4.0 highlight its significance and necessity. This study aims to identify the relationship between R&D expenditure and the aggregate innovation index in the V4 countries. The statistical data from 2014 to 2021 are taken from the European Commission and Eurostat databases. The analysis focuses on identifying the degree of correlation between the standardized score of the Aggregate Innovation Index and the amount of R&D expenditure in countries of the Visegrad Group. The study uses the following methods: the Shapiro-Wilk test (to verify the normality of the samples), Pearson’s correlation coefficient (to check the degree of tightness of dependency), the Tukey test (to examine which countries have statistically significant differences), and chi-squared test (Χ2-test). Among the V4 countries, the Czech Republic was the best performer in the aggregate innovation index. Hungary showed the second-highest score, Slovakia ranked third place, and Poland had the lowest score. The findings indicate a positive correlation between R&D expenditures and the aggregate innovation index in all V4 countries. However, the relationship is statistically significant only in the Czech Republic and Poland. These results were confirmed by the Tukey test of differences within the correlation coefficients, which showed only a statistically significant difference within the correlation coefficients between Poland and Slovakia (1.790) and between Poland and Hungary (–1.640), respectively.
AcknowledgmentThis study was supported by the Ministry of Education, Science, Research and Sport of the Slovak Republic [grant VEGA No 1/0357/21], “Multiplier effects of human capital quality on economic performance and competitiveness of the Slovak economy.”
The idea of a city for people as a factor in the localization of protest voting in new residential complexes
Authors:   Institute of Design and Urban Studies, ITMO University, Podkorytova Maria I. , Raskin Ilja V. ,   International Institute for Monitoring Democracy Development, Parliamentarianism and Suffrage Protection of Citizens of IPA CIS Member Nations, Nenko Aleksandra E. ,   Institute of Design and Urban Studies, ITMO University
Published: April 2023

The gradual formation of income segregation in the post-Soviet city leads to the localization of protest voting. New residential complexes are significant spatial elements of this process. The new housing attracts citizens with similar income levels and perception of the quality of the living environment, empowering urban segregation. Moreover, the gap between expected and experienced urban life is usually observed in the new housing, supported by frequent practices of deceptive marketing and concluding real estate transactions long before the construction is over. Following that, the discrepancy between the character of the urban environment inside and outside the residential complex forces the localization of protest voting within the new housing. The key concept in explaining that kind of a protest vote localization is “city for people”. The external attributes of the city for people, including safety, accessibility, sustainability, are promoted by developers as part of marketing campaigns and shape a latent demand from the buyers. However, the systematic lack of these claimed elements in new residential complexes leads residents to political protest and focus on the political component of the city for people. Citizens adopt a critical attitude towards the infringement of the rights of residents by developers and urban administration and a request for equal participation in city management. The paper critically observes the case of protest voting in the residential complex «Ya - Romantik» in St Petersburg. The significant lack of infrastructure empowers citizens there to manifest political claims and exercise solidarity. Also the prospective locations of the protest voting are discussed.
Preventive medicine in Russia: The problem of public (dis)trust
Authors:   St. Petersburg State University, Savin Sergey D. , Smirnova Anna N. ,   St. Petersburg State University
Published: April 2023

Based on a range of empirical studies, the article discusses the contemporary challenges and contradictions for the development of preventive medicine in Russia amongst the enormous distrust of the population towards preventive medical measures. In the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, the discussion about preventive medical actions as a necessary measure for maintaining national security has assumed new importance. While the Russian government tries to reduce the epidemiological and economic risks by strengthening control and involving the population in preventive procedures, “coronavirus restrictions” have caused significant discontent among the population. The protest voices of “COVID dissidents” are heard loudly in public spaces, and the arguments of opponents of vaccination are widespread in Russian society. However, even before the pandemic, the wary attitude of the population towards vaccinations and preventive measures was already acutely problematic. In 2020-2021 a sociological study was conducted to identify a number of objective and subjective factors of public (dis)trust towards preventive medical measures, and, in general, the value attitude towards health and preventive care in Russian society. The analysis showed the sensitive points of the Russian’s attitude to preventive medicine and issues of health promotions, demonstrating the existing stereotypes and fears of people, as well as the problems of modern preventive medicine in general and vaccination. The authors conclude that the problem of institutional (dis)trust is key for the development of preventive medicine in Russia. Without voluntary and interested participation of the population in medical practices, the development of the modern concept of predictive, preventive, personalised and participative medicine will not be successful.
Social innovation in Russian cities: Assessing service management potential
Authors:   St Petersburg State Institute of Psychology and Social Work, Balashov Aleksei I. , Vasilieva Elena A. ,   North-West Institute of Management — branch of the Russian Presidential Academy of National Economy and Public Administration, Stolyarova Daria A. ,   HSE University
Published: April 2023

The article presents a method for assessing the potential of social innovations in the cities of the Russian Federation based on the use of quality of life indicators provided by VEB.RF. The social innovative potential is the presence of a set of socio-economic development conditions that positively influence the creation, dissemination and use of innovations, both technical and managerial, in the provision of social services. In the course of the study a hierarchical clustering of the cities according to the obtained comprehensive assessment using Ward’s method was carried out. It was established that the cluster with high potential for emergence and development of social innovations includes only two cities out of studied 51 ones, the largest number of cities are included in the cluster with low level of potential. A high level of potential has been identified in small single-industry towns, with a homogenised population engaged in high-tech industry, with a high level of self-organisation and civic engagement. The population of cities with the lowest levels of potential is characterised by high levels of fragmentation, which is not compensated by higher levels of income. The key factors determining the potential are the activity of interaction within communities and the presence of organisations that carry out their activities in the social services sector. Thus, it can be assumed that increasing the potential for social innovation in Russian cities depends on the communication competences of local authorities and the establishment of a functioning system of social entrepreneurship, which brings to the fore the problem of integrating modern effective management methods into the social services sector.
Perspectivas Teóricas, como Basamentos para Estudiar la Gestión Universitaria
Authors: Ganga-Contreras Francisco Anibal , Abello Juan , Pedraja-Rejas Liliana , Durán Ivette , Castillo Juan
Published: April 2023

Administrar con éxito cualquier tipo de organización siempre representa un gran desafío para las personas que asumen cargos de dirección, y al hacerlo en universidades -nuestro objeto de estudio- el reto es aún mayor, dado que estas entidades representan la complejidad por excelencia. En este contexto surge este trabajo, que tiene como objetivo primordial realizar una revisión de carácter teórico del enfoque de agencia, la teoría del servidor y la teoría de los grupos de interés, las cuales pueden servir para mejorar la praxis en la dirección universitaria. Para lograr la meta trazada, se realizó una investigación de carácter documental, lo que implicó una revisión de artículos académicos de la especialidad publicados en revistas indexadas en las principales bases de datos (fuentes secundarias de información). En general, se infiere que en un escenario organizacional “líquido” e “hipercomplejo” los abordajes a los fenómenos asociados a la dirección universitaria deben realizarse desde la multidimensionalidad de estas entidades educativas. En ese sentido, lo desarrollado aporta antecedentes que pueden servir de base y sustento para buscar soluciones creativas a los problemas de eficiencia, eficacia y calidad que enfrentan las universidades.
Factors Affecting Nest Site Selection by Freshwater Turtles: A Systematic Review
Authors: Guimarães Andressa Estela Balbino , Ribeiro Thays Nogueira Lobo , Ribeiro Ana Beatriz Nunes , Navarro Rodrigo Diana
Published: April 2023

Nest site selection is an important behavior, particularly in species that lack parental care, as nest microclimate can greatly impact embryos’ survival and offspring phenotype. Understanding which factors influence oviposition decisions is critical to identifying priority areas for conservation. This systematic review aimed to synthesize the factors that affect nest site selection by freshwater turtles. The search was conducted in the Web of Science database. In total, 35 publications met the eligibility criteria. The first study on the topic was published more than three decades ago, but only within the last ten years have studies started to be published annually. More than half of the studies were conducted in the United States and the most studied species was Chrysemys picta. Environmental factors, mainly vegetation characteristics, but also soil properties and beach morphology, are the most studied. Anthropogenic factors have been increasingly studied, especially residential areas and agricultural fields. Some studies suggest that human-altered habitats may act as ecological traps, emphasizing the need for further research on this topic. More studies are also needed on the influence of predation risk, co-species cues, female size, and offspring phenotype on nest site selection by freshwater turtles. We highlight that understanding the factors affecting nest site selection is important for identifying the habitat needs of nesting females, predicting possible ecological implications of nest site choice, assessing the adaptive potential of species to environmental change, and determining the vulnerability of populations to different threats.
Preferências na Escolha das Termas em Portugal
Authors: Pereira Luísa Sousa , Tavares Fernando Oliveira
Published: April 2023

O termalismo é uma atividade turística, que vem desde tempos imemoriais, e que é uma importante alavanca para o desenvolvimento de localidades de baixa densidade, diminuindo desta forma as assimetrias regionais. O objetivo deste estudo é caraterizar o perfil dos aquistas que frequentaram as termas de diferentes pontos em Portugal, em tempo de COVID-19, e os fatores preponderantes na escolha dos serviços termais. O estudo é de natureza quantitativa, tendo sido elaborado um inquérito, que analisou os fatores determinantes na escolha das termas em Portugal durante este período. Observou-se que os fatores preponderantes na escolha das termas são a qualidade das instalações e dos serviços, a procura de descanso, a melhoria da saúde e da qualidade de vida e a procura de socialização e cultura. Espera-se que este estudo contribua para evidenciar o perfil do aquista e as suas preferências, pelas diversas estâncias termais.
Tropical Aquaponic Production of Medicinal Plants in Association with Goldfish
Authors: Corrêa Bernardo Ramos Simões , Diana Navarro Rodrigo
Published: April 2023

Aquaponics is an emerging technology that synergistically combines aquaculture and hydroponic production through nutrient cycling and water recycling. As aquaponics grows exponentially, studies that evaluate the technique by testing different species in these systems make this choice fundamental to result in a high productivity and profitability. Ornamental fish, as well as medicinal plants, are interesting options for a more in-depth analysis of aquaponic systems. In this context, the objective was to analyze the performance of four plant species: boldu chilanum, Peumus boldus; peppermint, Mentha x piperita; Brazilian joyweed, Alternanthera brasiliana; and oregano, Origanum vulgare, as well as the growth of goldfish, Carassius auratus, and physicochemical aspects of water quality in identical aquaponic systems installed in a greenhouse during 91 days of cultivation. The experimental design consisted in four treatments and four replications, using in all treatments a density of 21 fish.310L and four seedlings, in cuttings, of each plant species studied. The vegetable cultivation systems were composed of expanded clay sediments in a 0.25m² planters, using a density of 16 plants.m², repeated, each treatment, in four aquaponic systems, totaling 16 aquaponic systems analyzed. The results showed that, for the parameters of weight and height, of the four plant species studied, only oregano did not develop as expected, while boldu chilanum, peppermint and Brazilian joyweed showed a representative increase in the analyzed parameters. The goldfish also showed representative increase for weight, total and standard length in all treatments. The water quality parameters analyzed did not showed differences between treatments and were within the range recommended by reference authors, as well as for the well-being of the goldfish. The systems have demonstrated efficiency in vegetative and animal growth, and can help to add value to products from aquaponics, corroborating the evolution of technology.
Saúde Ambiental como Estratégia de Enfrentamento à Covid-19
Authors: Schiavon Isabel Cristina Adão , Takayanagui Angela Maria Magosso
Published: April 2023

O artigo busca refletir acerca da acelerada mudança no perfil epidemiológico da população global que tem trazido à tona discussões sobre diversos fatores determinantes no processo saúde-doença. Nessa mesma direção, os fatores ambientais e sua interface na saúde humana são destacados, principalmente pelos danos à saúde evitáveis e pelo impacto do surgimento de novas doenças, tais como a Covid-19. Estudos apontam que a aproximação entre seres humanos e animais selvagens promovida por aspectos culturais e pela degradação dos ambientes naturais e da biodiversidade, têm proporcionado as condições adequadas para o surgimento e disseminação de novas doenças. Nesse contexto, as autoras apontam que a formação dos enfermeiros não tem dado o suporte necessário para atendimento a essa nova demanda e indicam a inclusão de conteúdos da Saúde Ambiental como um caminho possível no preenchimento dessa lacuna formativa, a fim de que esses profissionais possam responder à altura a demandas e aos desafios futuros.
Carbon Nanocomposites-based Electrochemical Sensors and
Biosensors for Biomedical Diagnostics
Authors: Kannan Palanisamy , Maduraiveeran Govindhan
Published: April 2023

Detection of emergent biomolecules or biomarkers remains crucial for early diagnosis
in advancing healthcare monitoring and biomedicine. The possibility for rapid detection,
real-time monitoring, high sensitivity, low detection limit, good selectivity, and
low cost is central, among other significant issues for advancing point-of-care diagnosis.
Carbon-based nanocomposites have been employed as sensing materials for various biomarkers
due to their high surface-to-volume ratio, high electrical conductivity, chemical
stability, and biocompatibility. The carbon nanomaterials, such as carbon nanotubes (CNTs),
graphene (GR), carbon quantum dots (CQDs), carbon fibres (CFs), and their nanocomposites
have broadly integrated with numerous sensing electrode materials for the detection
of biomarkers under various experimental settings. The present review includes
the recent advances in the development of carbon nanomaterials-based electrochemical
sensors and biosensors for biomedical applications. The preparation, electrode preparation,
effective utilization of carbon-derived nanomaterials, and their sensing performances
towards numerous biomarkers have been highlighted. The state-of-the-merit,
challenges, and prospects for designing carbon nanocomposites-based electrochemical
sensor/biosensor platforms for biomedical diagnostics have also been described.
Anthracycline in Medicinal Chemistry: Mechanism of Cardiotoxicity, Preventive and
Treatment Strategies
Authors: Hussen Narmin Hamaamin , Hasan Aso Hameed , Muhammed Gashbeen Osman , Yassin Akar Yousif , Salih Roza Rafiq , Esmail Parwa Ahmed , Alanazi Mohammed M. , Jamalis Joazaizulfazli
Published: April 2023

Anthracyclines are one of the most effective cancer treatments ever created, but
these compounds are somewhat cardiotoxic to some patients, causing heart failure. The likelihood
of such adverse effects restricts the overall prescribed dose of anthracyclines for patients.
Based on the pathophysiology of anthracycline-induced cardiotoxicity, the cardiotoxicity
plausibly originates from a reduction reaction of a single electron in its structure to form
surplus reactive oxygen species (ROS) or two electrons reducing and converting into C-13
alcohol metabolites. While excess ROS is the probable cause for acute cardiotoxicity brought
on by anthracyclines, it is not all characteristic of progressive cardiomyopathy. The formed
secondary alcohol metabolites could also profoundly accelerate cardiotoxicity, which then
develops into cardiomyopathy and eventually congestive heart failure. This review offers an
overview of the molecular pathways of anthracycline-induced cardiotoxicity, emphasizing the roles of secondary
alcohol metabolites of anthracyclines and/or their morbific role as ROS. The most effective ways to minimize or
terminate anthracycline-induced cardiotoxicity are also covered.
Proteins in Complement, Immune, and Clotting Cascades and their Role in
Preterm Births
Authors: Thakur Shubham , Jain Subheet Kumar
Published: April 2023

Preterm birth (PTB) (< 37 completed weeks gestation) is a pathological outcome of pregnancy
and its associated complications are the leading global cause of death in children younger than
5 years of age. Babies born prematurely have an elevated risk for short- and long-term adverse effects
of medical and neurodevelopmental sequelae. Substantial evidence suggests that multiple sets
of symptoms are allied with PTB etiology, and the exact mechanism cannot be recognized. Notably,
various proteins, especially (i) complement cascade; (ii) immune system; and (iii) clotting cascade,
have become attractive research targets that are associated with PTB. Further, a small imbalance of
these proteins in maternal or foetal circulation could serve as a marker/precursor in a series of events
that lead to PTBs. Thus, the present review lightens the basic description of the circulating proteins,
their role in PTB, and current concepts for future development. Further, deepening the research on
these proteins will lead to a better understanding of PTB etiology and alleviate scientists' confidence
in the early identification of PTB mechanisms and biological markers.
Structural and Pharmacological Network Focused on MiRNAs
Involved in Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Systematic Review
Authors: Barrera-Vázquez Oscar Salvador , Hernández-González Olivia
Published: April 2023

Background:

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease
that has a prevalence of over one percent of the world population, causing substantial
pain, joint deformity, and functional disability in patients. The identification and
measurement of miRNAs are relatively easy to perform. Future studies will corroborate if
miRNAs can fulfill their roles as biomarkers with either predictive or diagnostic evaluation
of treatment potential and provide actual clinical utility.

Methods:

In the last decade, various advances have been made regarding the
identification of the origin and exact functions of miRNAs, allowing us to have a potential
use both in the research and clinical fields.

Objective:

This systematic review aimed to collect, analyze, and improve the current
understanding of RA-related miRNAs and their applicability in therapeutics. A
bibliographic search of the miRNAs involved in RA was carried out, and through the use
of databases, their target genes and small molecules that had some relationship with
their expression were searched. The analysis of these data was done through structural
network analysis.

Results:

During the network analysis, miR-30a, miR-30c, let-7a, miR-144, miR-17-5p,
miR-124, miR -23b, miR-23, miR-15a, miR-16 were the most connected, which could be
used as possible biomarkers or be candidates for further analysis due to their interaction
with other miRNAs and genes.

Conclusion:

Additionally, this is the first systematic review, in which we proposed that
small compounds like toxicants and drugs could have a potential role within RA because
they regulate the expression of miRNAs involved in this pathology. Some of these
compounds are commonly found as environmental contaminants, and others as drugs.
These ideas open a new panorama of understanding RA, proposing possible causes or
treatments against this pathology. Therefore, these small molecules would give us some
indication of a relationship with RA, thereby helping in seeking causes, treatment, or
prevention of this disease. Conclusion: This is the first time it is intended to use
structural network analysis to determine possible biomarkers of AR for diagnosis and
prognosis through the expression of these miRNAs and their relationship with
compounds of daily life.
A Lightweight AMResNet Architecture with an Attention Mechanism for
Diagnosing COVID-19
Authors: Zhou Qi , Hammad Kowah Jamal Alzobair , Li Huijun , Yuan Mingqing , Jiang Lihe , Liu Xu
Published: April 2023

Aims:

COVID-19 has become a worldwide epidemic disease and a new challenge for all mankind. The potential advantages of chest X-ray images on COVID-19 were discovered. We proposed a lightweight and effective Convolution Neural Network framework based on chest X-ray images for the diagnosis of COVID-19, named AMResNet.

Background:

COVID-19 has become a worldwide epidemic disease and a new challenge for all mankind. The potential advantages of chest X-ray images on COVID-19 were discovered.

Objective:

A lightweight and effective Convolution Neural Network framework based on chest X-ray images for the diagnosis of COVID-19.

Methods:

By introducing the channel attention mechanism and image spatial information attention mechanism, a better level can be achieved without increasing the number of model parameters.

Results:

In the collected data sets, we achieved an average accuracy rate of more than 92%, and the sensitivity and specificity of specific disease categories were also above 90%.

Conclusion:

The convolution neural network framework can be used as a novel method for artificial intelligence to diagnose COVID-19 or other diseases based on medical images.
The Comparison of Low and High-dose Scintigraphy findings in Patients with
Primary Parathyroid Lesions in which Intraoperative Gamma-probe was
Applied
Authors: Sule Ceylan , Necati Yilmaz
Published: April 2023

Objective:

We aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of high-dose and low-dose use of radioactive material in intraoperative gamma probe application methods in patients diagnosed with primary hyperparathyroidism and planned for surgery.

Methods:

47 patients with primary hyperparathyroidism underwent minimally-invasive parathyroid surgery (MIS) after preoperative imaging studies
consisting of ultrasonography (USG) and sestamibi parathyroid scintigraphy (SPS) showed a possible primary parathyroid lesion (PPL). All
patients received Tc-99 sestamibi on day-of-surgery imaging (DOSI) to help with the localization of a primary parathyroid lesion (PPL) via both
DOSI and intraoperative gamma probe (IGP). Patients in Group I were administered 20-25 mCi Tc-99m sestamibi (methoxy isobutyl isonitrile)
and images were obtained at the 20th and 120th minutes. Patients in Group II were administered 8-10 mCi doses and images were obtained at the
20th and 40th minutes. Two nuclear medicine specialists independently evaluated the images. Lesions in the localizations determined by DOSI and
IGP were compared with the histopathological results of these lesions.

Results:

47 patients, 35 females, and 12 males were included in the study. The mean age of 28 patients in the first group given the high dose was 54 (41-60), and the mean age was 48 (42-57) in the second group given the low dose (p=0.011). In the group given low-dose radioactive material during intraoperative gamma probe application, the observer's sensitivity, specificity, positive, and negative predictive values for finding pathology were 61.1, 100, 100, and 12.5, respectively. In the group given high-dose radioactive material, the same values were 90.9, 33.3, 50, and 83.3, respectively. While the success of MIS increases with the use of DOSI and IGP in large lesions, the success decreases with the prolongation of the accumulation time of the given dose.

Conclusions:

In the intraoperative gamma probe technique used in primary hyperparathyroidism patients, the method used with low-dose radioactive material has lower sensitivity but higher specificity in estimating the post-operative pathology compared to the high-dose technique.
Application of Cell Penetrating Peptides for Intracellular Delivery of
Endostatin: A Computational Approach
Authors: Zamani Mozhdeh , Nezafat Navid , Mokarram Pooneh , Kadkhodaei Behnam
Published: April 2023

Background:

Endostatin is an antiangiogenic compound with anticancer activity. The
poor stability and low half-life of endostatin are the main barriers to the clinical use of this protein.
Cell-penetrating peptides (CPPs) are extensively applied as carrier in the delivery of drugs and
different therapeutic agents. Therefore, they can be proper candidates to improve endostatin delivery
to the target cells.

Objective:

In this study, we aim to computationally predict appropriate CPPs for the delivery of
endostatin.

Methods:

Potential appropriate CPPs for protein delivery were selected based on the literature.
The main parameters for detection of best CPP-endostatin fusions, including stability, hydrophobicity,
antigenicity, and subcellular localization, were predicted using ProtParam, VaxiJen, and
DeepLoc-1.0 servers, respectively. The 3D structures of the best CPP-Endostatin fusions were
modeled by the I-TASSER server. The predicted models were validated using PROCHECK, ERRAT,
Verify3D and ProSA-Web servers. The best models were visualized by the PyMol molecular
graphics system.

Results:

Considering the principal parameters in the selection of best CPPs for endostatin delivery,
endostatin fusions with four CPPs, including Cyt c-ss-MAP, TP-biot1, MPGα, and DPV1047,
high stability and hydrophobicity, no antigenicity and extracellular localization were predicted as
the best potential fusions for endostatin delivery. Four CPPs, including Cyt c-ss-MAP, TP-biot1,
MPGα, and DPV1047, were predicted as the best potential candidates to improve endostatin delivery.

Conclusion:

Application of these CPPs may overcome the limitation of endostatin therapeutic
applications, including poor stability and low half-life. Subsequent experimental studies will contribute
to verifying these computational results.
Neuronal Vulnerability to Degeneration in Parkinson’s Disease and
Therapeutic Approaches
Authors: Sharma Tanushree , Kumar Rajnish , Mukherjee Sayali
Published: April 2023

Parkinson's disease is the second most common neurodegenerative disease affecting millions
of people worldwide. Despite the crucial threat it poses, currently, no specific therapy exists that
can completely reverse or halt the progression of the disease. Parkinson's disease pathology is driven
by neurodegeneration caused by the intraneuronal accumulation of alpha-synuclein (α-syn) aggregates
in Lewy bodies in the substantia nigra region of the brain. Parkinson’s disease is a multiorgan disease
affecting the central nervous system (CNS) as well as the autonomic nervous system. A bidirectional
route of spreading α-syn from the gut to CNS through the vagus nerve and vice versa has also been reported.
Despite our understanding of the molecular and pathophysiological aspects of Parkinson’s disease,
many questions remain unanswered regarding the selective vulnerability of neuronal populations,
the neuromodulatory role of the locus coeruleus, and alpha-synuclein aggregation. This review article
aims to describe the probable factors that contribute to selective neuronal vulnerability in Parkinson’s
disease, such as genetic predisposition, bioenergetics, and the physiology of neurons, as well as the interplay
of environmental and exogenous modulators. This review also highlights various therapeutic
strategies with cell transplants, through viral gene delivery, by targeting α-synuclein and aquaporin
protein or epidermal growth factor receptors for the treatment of Parkinson’s disease. The application
of regenerative medicine and patient-specific personalized approaches have also been explored as
promising strategies in the treatment of Parkinson’s disease.
Perspectives on the Role of P21-Activated Kinase 1 (PAK1) in the Intestinal
Anti-inflammatory and Antitumor Potential of Artepillin C
Authors: da Silva Luisa Mota
Published: April 2023

The Brazilian biodiversity may bring new perspectives to the therapy of Inflammatory Bowel Diseases (IBD) and intestinal cancer. The
effect of Brazilian Green Propolis in reducing ulcerative colitis in mice has already been described, as well as high amounts of the prenylated
compound Artepellin C (ARC). The search for new pharmacological targets for IBD is also advancing. Among possibilities is the p21-activated
kinase (PAK1), overexpressed and activated in the intestinal mucosa during IBD and colitis-associated colorectal cancer (CAC). PAK 1 contributes
to tissue inflammation by reducing the expression of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor type γ (PPARγ) and increasing activation of
nuclear factor (NF)-κB. At least in vitro, inhibition of PAK1 has been reported to mitigate NF-κB-mediated inflammation in intestinal cells and
ARC inhibits PAK1 activation. Given this pharmacological potential of ARC and the role of PAK1 in IBD and CAC, this perspective collected
information that encourages future research to test the hypothesis that ARC can maintain intestinal integrity under the inflammatory and neoplastic
stimulus and that inhibition of PAK1/NF-κB signaling and favoring PPAR-γ activity is pivotal in this action. Therefore, future studies employing
in vitro and in vivo steps, using murine and human enterocytes and rodents submitted to ulcerative colitis and CAC models are incentivized by the
data gathered here, favor retirar essas palavras: mostly in vitro studies, before clinical trials. Therefore, the perspective presented here points to an
interesting path in the search for a drug useful in inflammatory and neoplastic intestinal diseases, which may have ARC as a prototype, acting on a
target not yet explored clinically.
The Correlation between the Structures of Bimetallic Tartrate Complexes
in Solutions for Laser-induced Synthesis and Sensor Characteristics of
Microbiosensors Materials
Authors: Kochemirovskaia S.V. , Fogel A.A. , Novomlinsky M.O. , Mokhorov D.A. , Kochemirovsky V.A.
Published: April 2023

Background:

Determination of diagnostically significant components of biological ma-terials using enzyme-free microscopic sensors is an urgent scientific task, which is being worked on by a significant number of scientific groups in the world. This is due to the fact that microscop-ic sensor-active tracks on inert surfaces can be obtained without preliminary manufacturing of precision templates.

Methods:

Laser Induced Chemical Liquid Phase Deposition (LCLD) is a laser technology that al-lows the deposition of microsized conductive tracks from aqueous solutions of transition metal compounds at the focus of a laser beam. These tracks can be formed by one or two metals at the same time. The possibility of obtaining complexes in solution in which two different metals inter-act with one common coordination sphere of the ligand is of particular interest. The structure of such complexes is still insufficiently studied.

Results:

The present study supplements the missing information on tartaric acid complexes, which can simultaneously coordinate two metals, for example, copper, nickel, silver, iron, and cobalt. Heterophase LCLD demonstrates high sensory activity in the electrochemical oxidation/reduction of glucose and hydrogen peroxide. Bimetallic deposits can be obtained in two ways. The first method consists of successive precipitation from a solution containing an ion of one metal, then another on top of the first. The second way is to create a solution in which two metals and one lig-and are simultaneously present. Laser deposition is carried out in one stage. In practice, the possi-bility of the second method is not always realized.

Conclusion:

In the present work, the basic principles of the formation of heterophase bimetallic sensor-sensitive porous material with a highly developed surface under the action of laser radia-tion have been analyzed, and new reference data have been accumulated on the structure of tar-trate complexes containing two metals.
LGS'ye COVID-19 Pandemisinde Uzaktan Eğitimle Hazırlanmak
Authors: Karataş İsmail , Öztürk Nilgün
Published: April 2023

Türkiye’de COVID-19 pandemi nedeniyle yüz yüze eğitim yürütülemediği için 8. sınıf öğrencileri LGS’ye (Liselere Geçiş Sistemi) uzaktan eğitimle hazırlanmak durumunda kaldılar. LGS ile az sayıda nitelikli okula öğrenci alındığı için bu sınava hazırlık öğrenciler için zorlu geçebilmektedir. Bu araştırmanın amacı, COVID-19 pandemi sürecinde LGS’ye uzaktan eğitimle hazırlanan 8. Sınıf öğrencilerinin bu süreçteki deneyimlerini keşfetmek ve bu deneyimleri kapsayıcı temalar altında birleştirmektir. Araştırmada LGS’ye uzaktan hazırlanmanın öğrenci deneyimleriyle derinlemesine anlaşılması için nitel araştırma desenlerinden fenomenoloji deseni kullanılmıştır. Katılımcılar Adıyaman ilinde farklı okullarda eğitimine devam eden 18 (9 = kız, 9 = erkek) 8. sınıf öğrencisidir. Katılımcılarla online ve yüz yüze görüşmeler yapılarak veriler toplanmıştır. Çalışmanın verileri araştırmacılar tarafından hazırlanmış olan yarı yapılandırılmış görüşme formu ile toplanmıştır. Yapılan tematik analiz sonucunda ortaya çıkan üç ana tema şunlardır: (a) sınav kaygısının artması (b) akran desteğine ihtiyaç duyulması (c) değişen çevrimiçi öğrenme deneyimleri. Yapılan bu araştırmanın uzaktan eğitim sürecinde LGS’ye hazırlanan öğrencilerin deneyimleri anlamak noktasında alan yazına bilgiler sunduğu söylenebilir.
The Relationship of Estrous Character with Conception Rate in Madura Cattle
Authors: Kuswati Kuswati , Prasetyo Dandy , Yekti Aulia Puspita Anugra , Susilawati Trinil
Published: April 2023

This study aimed to determine the relationship between estrous characteristics with the success of AI in Madura cattle. A total of 50 female Madura cattle were used in this research. The estrus quality was observed, including vulva temperature, vulva swelling, vulva color, cervical pH, and cervical mucus. The parameters were NRR-1, NRR-2, Pregnancy Rate, and conception rate. The results showed that Madura cattle with the quality of estrus in the uneven red vulva color category showed better results than red vulva color at NRR-1, NRR-2, CR, and PR values, 100%, 93,33%, 93,33%, and 93,33% respectively. Abundant cervical mucus showed better results than the moderate mucus on the NRR-1, NRR-2, CR, and PR values, which were 100%, 87,5%, 75%, and 75%, respectively. Then a vulva temperature of 37,0-37,9ºC showed better results than a vulva temperature >38ºC in the NRR-1, CR, and PR values, namely 92,12%, 64,71%, and 70,59. Furthermore, the pH condition of cervical mucus with a pH value of 7 showed better results than cervical mucus with a pH of 8 at NRR-1, NRR-2, CR, and PR, 94,12%, 94,12%, 70,59%, and 76,47%. In the very swollen vulva category, the results were better than slightly swollen at the NRR-1 value of 100%. This study concludes that the characteristic uneven color of the vulva, the vulva temperature is 37,0-37,9, the abundant cervical mucus, cervical pH 7, and a very swollen vulva give a high percentage of the success of AI.
RESPONSIBLE TOURISM AND QUALITY OF LIFE AMONG THE LOCAL COMMUNITY IN CAMERON HIGHLANDS
Authors: Mohd Rasdi Aikal Liyani , Mat Som Ahmad Puad , Mior Shariffuddin Nur Shahirah
Published: April 2023

The primary objective of the research is to examine at the relation between responsible tourism and community quality of life. A questionnaire survey was carried out to gather responses from a sample of 322 locals from the Malaysian Cameron Highlands' Ulu Telum, Tanah Rata, and Ringlet subdistricts. The data analysis revealed that there was no correlation between the quality of life in the local community and any of the four pillars of responsible tourism (economic, environmental, social, and cultural). Although tourism has an impact on locals' quality of life in tourist destinations, it can only measure residents' opinions and not their actual experiences. Or, to put it another way, it may not be appropriate to assess locals' quality of life using indices of tourist impacts. According to the findings of this study, the components of responsible tourism may only partially represent the quality of life among local communities affected by tourism in a host community. The results of this study suggest that the elements of responsible tourism might need to accurately reflect the quality of life of the local communities impacted by tourism in a host community.
STRATEGY FORMULATION TO EMPOWER INDIGENOUS COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT IN CULTURAL ECOLOGICAL TOURISM OF KUALA TAHAN NATIONAL PARK
Authors: Ibrahim Asmawi , Abdullah Ramle , - Wan Nor Jazmina , Tun Ismail Wan Nor Azilawanie , Olaitan Ahmed
Published: April 2023

Cultural ecological tourism is a source for the preservation of habitats and species of life. This sector is seen as having the potential to generate job opportunities and income for indigenous communities, especially the Orang Asli of the Batek tribe who live around the Kuala Tahan National Park. The main objective of this paper is to discuss strategies to empower the involvement of indigenous communities in cultural ecological tourism in Kuala Tahan National Park. The study was conducted in six Batek settlements by adopting qualitative methods. Data was collected by the application of participatory observation techniques, in-depth interviews, and document analysis. Data was coordinated and analyzed using QSR Nvivo software. The findings of the study show that various strategies can be applied to empowering the Batek people's involvement in cultural ecological tourism such as the cooperation of all parties including government agencies, Non-Governmental Organizations, universities, and tourism companies. Empowerment strategies can also be applied by applying an integrated approach, which is the amalgamation of ecological, and cultural tourism with other economic activities in addition to improving the delivery of quality tourism products and services.
APPLICATION OF GIS IN SPATIAL MODEL DEVELOPMENT OF ATTITUDE RESIDENTS TOWARDS RIVER POLLUTION: A CASE STUDY OF THE TERENGGANU RIVER BASIN, MALAYSIA
Authors: Alias Norshahida Akma , Tun Ismail Wan Nor Azilawanie , Amin Aziz , Kamarudin Mohd Khairul Amri
Published: April 2023

Like any other country, Malaysia also faces environmental issues and should not be separated from the threat of water quality deterioration that contributes to river pollution. River pollution occurs due to the community's irresponsible attitude that ignores its importance as a life source. This study aims to develop a spatial model of attitude towards river pollution using GIS. This study used a survey method, which is purposive sampling through questionnaires, involving 396 respondents. The findings were analyzed using XLSTAT to obtain the mean value. GIS was then applied to implement buffer analysis and spatial analysis. The Attitude model was then successfully developed. The study's findings show that the number of people living in Kampung Menerung and Kampung Lubuk Periuk is low. A moderate level of attitude is represented by the people living in Kampung Pasir Pelatar, Kampung Jenagur, Kuala Berang, Kampung Lerek, Kampung Tanggul, Kampung Kuala Ping, Kampung Pelong, Kampung Payung, and Kampung Merbau Menyusut. Next, the findings show the high level of attitude is represented by people living in Kampung Langkap, Kampung Sungai Tong, Bandar Kuala Terengganu, Kampung Seberang Takir, Chabang Tiga, Lapangan Terbang Sultan Mahmud, Manir, Kampung Peradung, Kampung Kuala Jeneris, Kampung Kuala Tajin, and Kampung Kuala Telemong. The study results show that GIS usage is the best approach to assist decision-making for the stakeholders. Therefore, future studies should focus on various variables, including environmental awareness, environmental concerns, environmental values, environmental practices, and involve GIS in solving environmental issues.
PUBLIC PARTICIPATION IN ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT (EIA) LAW IN MALAYSIA: A CRITICAL ANALYSIS
Authors: Loh Ing Hoe , Kamarudin Mohd Khairul Amri , Chong Ju Lian , Umar Roslan , Ling Chen Yii
Published: April 2023

Public participation in environmental impact assessment has been recognized under Principle 10 of the Rio Declaration on Environment and Development. According to Principle 10, the public shall have right to access to information, participate in decision making process and their voice shall be heard. Malaysia has implemented environmental impact assessment under Article 34 of Environmental Quality Act 1973, Article 12 of Sabah Environment Protection Enactment 2002 and Section 11A of Sarawak’s Natural Resources and Environment Ordinance 1993.  This paper will look into the public participation in environmental impact assessment in Malaysia, Sabah and Sarawak. Qualitative methodology with analytical, historical and comparative approaches was used in this study. Result indicates that public participation has been mentioned in all three legislations. However, there is no guideline as to the level of participation by the public and how the information shall be delivered to the public.
DESTINATION IMAGE AND TOURIST RETENTION IN JERUSALEM
Authors: Shehab Edais , Mat Som Ahmad Puad , Al Qassem Amer
Published: April 2023

Tourism industry plays a vital role in the economic development of a country by attracting local and foreign tourists. The turbulent situation in Jerusalem occasioned by Israeli Palestinian crisis put euphoria in the mind set of tourists visiting the country. Thus, this paper aims at examining the effects of destination image on tourist loyalty in Jerusalem, mediated by political stability. A quantitative methodology was applied in this study and primary data was collected from 384 tourists who had visited Jerusalem. Results of the structural equation modelling found that destination image has a significant relationship with tourist loyalty, but there is a negative relationship between destination image and political stability. Political stability does not act as a mediator in the relationship between destination image and tourist loyalty. Tourism practitioners should focus on improving Jerusalem’s image as a destination to increase influx of tourists, revenue and sustainability because successful tourism development is closely related to reduction of risks and stability. The results of this study will help Israeli-Palestinian tourism sector to undertake more efficient planning, marketing, advertising, and enhancing the overall management of their resources in Jerusalem.