bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Synthetic Biology Approach for Vaccine Candidate Design against Delta Strain of SARS-CoV-2 Revealed Disruption of Favored Codon Pair as a Better Strategy over Using Rare Codons
Authors: Gurjar Pankaj , Karuvantevida Noushad , Rzhepakovsky Igor Vladimirovich , Khan Azmat Ali , Khandia Rekha
Published: February 2023

The SARS-CoV-2 delta variant (B.1.617.2) appeared for the first time in December 2020 and later spread worldwide. Currently available vaccines are not so efficacious in curbing the viral pathogenesis of the delta strain of COVID; therefore, the development of a safe and effective vaccine is required. In the present study, we envisaged molecular patterns in the structural genes’ spike, nucleoprotein, membrane, and envelope of the SARS-CoV-2 delta variant. The study was based on determining compositional features, dinucleotide odds ratio, synonymous codon usage, positive and negative codon contexts, rare codons, and insight into relatedness between the human host isoacceptor tRNA and preferred codons from the structural genes. We found specific patterns, including a significant abundance of T nucleotide over all other three nucleotides. The underrepresentation of GpA, GpG, CpC, and CpG dinucleotides and the overrepresentation of TpT, ApA, CpT, and TpG were observed. A preference towards ACT- (Thr), AAT- (Asn), TTT- (Phe), and TTG- (Leu) initiated codons and aversion towards CGG (Arg), CCG (Pro), and CAC (His) was present in the structural genes of the delta strain. The interaction between the host tRNA pool and preferred codons of the envisaged structural genes revealed that the virus preferred the codons for those suboptimal numbers of isoacceptor tRNA were present. We see this as a strategy adapted by the virus to keep the translation rate low to facilitate the correct folding of viral proteins. The information generated in the study helps design the attenuated vaccine candidate against the SARS-CoV-2 delta variant using a synthetic biology approach. Three strategies were tested: changing TpT to TpA, introducing rare codons, and disrupting favored codons. It found that disrupting favored codons is a better approach to reducing virus fitness and attenuating SARS-CoV-2 delta strain using structural genes.
Crosstalk between COVID-19 Infection and Kidney Diseases: A Review on the Metabolomic Approaches
Authors: Murali Reshma , Wanjari Uddesh Ramesh , Mukherjee Anirban Goutam , Gopalakrishnan Abilash Valsala , Kannampuzha Sandra , Namachivayam Arunraj , Madhyastha Harishkumar , Renu Kaviyarasi , Ganesan Raja
Published: February 2023

The novel severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) causes COVID-19, a respiratory disorder. Various organ injuries have been reported in response to this virus, including kidney injury and, in particular, kidney tubular injury. It has been discovered that infection with the virus does not only cause new kidney disease but also increases treatment difficulty and mortality rates in people with kidney diseases. In individuals hospitalized with COVID-19, urinary metabolites from several metabolic pathways are used to distinguish between patients with acute kidney injury (AKI) and those without. This review summarizes the pathogenesis, pathophysiology, treatment strategies, and role of metabolomics in relation to AKI in COVID-19 patients. Metabolomics is likely to play a greater role in predicting outcomes for patients with kidney disease and COVID-19 with varying levels of severity in the near future as data on metabolic profiles expand rapidly. Here, we also discuss the correlation between COVID-19 and kidney diseases and the available metabolomics approaches.
Neoplasms in Domestic Ruminants and Swine: A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Vasconcelos Jackson , Pires Maria dos Anjos , Alves Anabela , Vieira-Pinto Madalena , Saraiva Cristina , Cardoso Luís
Published: February 2023

Background: Due to the limited information and lack of studies on neoplasms in domestic ruminants, i.e., cattle, sheep, and goats, and domestic swine, the objective of the present study was to systematically review the scientific literature to verify the occurrence, type, organ system, and organs most affected by neoplasms in these animals. Methods: The recommendations of the PRISMA methodology were followed for the elaboration of this study. The research consisted of a systematic review of neoplasms in domestic cattle, sheep, goats, and swine. Results: The number of neoplasms found was 1873. The most affected organ system was the integumentary system with 35.0%, followed in descending order by the alimentary system with 16.90%, the hematopoietic system with 13.50%, the special senses (i.e., eyes and ears) with 10.51%, the female and male genital systems with 7.31%, the urinary system with 4.38%, the liver and biliary system with 3.152%, the endocrine glands with 3.91%, the respiratory system with 2.67%, the nervous system with 2.35%, bones and joints with 0.43%, muscles and tendons with 0.37%, the cardiovascular system with 0.21%, and the pancreas with 0.16%. Of the animals with neoplasms studied, cattle were affected in 69.80% of cases, goats in 10.52%, sheep in 10.46%, and swine in 9.18%. In all species, the most frequent neoplasms were squamous cell carcinomas in ruminants, while melanoma was the most frequent in swine. Few studies carried out in slaughterhouses were found, and the existing ones referred to cattle and swine. No data were found on economic losses with carcass condemnation. Conclusions: In view of the above, it is necessary to carry out extensive and detailed studies that provide knowledge about the impact of neoplasms on the production and condemnation of carcasses in domestic cattle, sheep, goats, and swine and the respective risk factors.
Identification of Ameloblastin as an Amyloid Precursor Protein of Amyloid-Producing Ameloblastoma in Dogs and Cats
Authors: Masoud Niki Sedghi , Iwaide Susumu , Itoh Yoshiyuki , Hisada Miki , Harada Tomoyuki , Murakami Tomoaki
Published: February 2023

Amyloid-producing ameloblastoma (APAB) is characterized by abundant amyloid deposits in ameloblastoma, but the amyloid precursor protein is unknown. To explore this, we conducted histopathologic and proteomic analyses on formalin-fixed and paraffin-embedded samples from five cases of APAB (three dogs and two cats). Histologically, the samples exhibited a proliferation of the odontogenic epithelium, with moderate to severe interstitial amyloid deposits. By using Congo red and polarized light, the amyloid deposits were found to show characteristic birefringence. Amyloid deposits were dissected from tissue sections and analyzed by LC/MS/MS, and high levels of ameloblastin were detected in all tissues. Mass spectrometry also revealed that the N-terminal region of ameloblastin is predominantly present in amyloid deposits. Immunohistochemistry was performed using two anti-ameloblastin (N terminal, middle region) antibodies and showed that amyloid deposits were positive for ameloblastin N terminal but negative for ameloblastin middle region. These results suggest that ameloblastin is the amyloid precursor protein of APABs in dogs and cats, and the N-terminal region may be involved in the amyloidogenesis of ameloblastin.
Risk Evaluation of Chemical Clogging of Irrigation Emitters via Geostatistics and Multivariate Analysis in the Northern Region of Minas Gerais, Brazil
Authors: Muniz Gustavo Lopes , Oliveira Agda Loureiro Gonçalves , Benedito Maria Geralda , Cano Nicolás Duarte , Camargo Antonio Pires de , Silva Ariovaldo José da
Published: February 2023

In this study, we analyzed the hydrogeochemistry of 350 underground wells in the northern region of the state of Minas Gerais, Brazil, for water-chemical parameters that may contribute to the chemical clogging of emitters in drip irrigation systems. Risk class maps were generated for each parameter, and the area was classified based on the water characteristics, considering the degree of water-use restriction in micro-irrigation (i.e., no, moderate, and severe restriction). Inverse distance-weighted, random forest, and ordinary kriging methods were used as interpolation methods. Moreover, a multivariate analysis was conducted to analyze the results. Pearson’s correlation coefficient showed a strong and significant correlation between pH and carbonates, hardness, total dissolved solids (TDS), and electrical conductivity (EC) and between TDS and EC. Principal component analysis revealed that most of the variations in the water quality of the wells could be explained by water–rock interactions with the consequent dissolution of minerals. The principal components were natural sources of ionic salt groups, dissolution of minerals rich in alkaline cations, chemical weathering of iron–magnesium minerals, and increased pH with the conversion of bicarbonates into carbonates. In the parameter cluster analysis, three possible mechanisms that contribute to emitter clogging in the study area were identified: precipitation of calcium and magnesium salts; oxidation of iron and manganese ions forming oxides and insoluble hydroxides; an increase in pH, which converts bicarbonates into carbonates. Clustering analysis revealed the wells that are susceptible to clogging with the exact cause.
Mechanism Analysis of PFHxS Purification in Water Using Nanofiltration under the Coexistence of Sodium Alginate and Ca2+ Based on DFT
Authors: Liu Mingxiang , Zhang Lei , Han Le , Zhang Ying , Gu Chengjun , Huang Jianbo
Published: February 2023

Perfluorohexanesulfonic acid (PFHxS) is considered a persistent and harmful substance to ecosystems and human health and should thus be necessarily removed. In this paper, the influence of working pressure, temperature, pH value, initial concentration, and the coexistence of sodium alginate (SA) and calcium ions on removing PFHxS using nanofiltration were hereby studied through a self-made hyaluronic acid-interlayered thin-film composite nanofiltration membrane (HA-TFCiNFM). When the substances SA or/and calcium ions (Ca2+) co-existed, the retention rate of the HA-TFCiNFM to PFHxS exceeded that in the single PFHxS system and increased with SA and Ca2+ concentrations. By filtering a single PFHxS, PFHxS/SA, and PFHxS/SA/Ca2+ water sample system, it was observed that the HA-TFCiNFM had the highest membrane fouling degree in the PFHxS/SA/Ca2+ system. The mechanisms of membrane separation and fouling when SA and Ca2+ co-existed were explored based on density functional theory (DFT). Building on DFT, the PFHxS structure was constructed, and when Ca2+ co-existed, Ca2+ complexed two PFHxS molecules to increase the complex compound size, making the sieving effect notable. When SA co-existed, although PFHxS and SA could not react with each other, the presence of SA would block the membrane pore and enhance the negative charge on the membrane surface, thereby strengthening the sieving and Donnan effects. When the substances Ca2+ and SA co-existed, Ca2+ complexed a PFHxS molecule and a SA molecule to form a larger complex compound so that the sieving effect could be enhanced. From the molecular perspective, the intermolecular interaction relationship between pollutants and the HA-TFCiNFM was explored based on DFT, and weak interactions, such as hydrogen bonding and van der Waals interactions, were clarified as the main mechanisms to control the membrane fouling. These results provide insight into the purification mechanism of PFHxS in water using nanofiltration and highlight the usefulness of DFT in exploring membrane separation and fouling mechanisms.
Sand Transport with Cohesive Admixtures…—Laboratory Tests and Modeling
Authors: Zawisza Jerzy , Radosz Iwona , Biegowski Jarosław , Kaczmarek Leszek M.
Published: February 2023

The paper presents results of experimental and theoretical studies on transport of water-sand mixtures in steady flow with small amounts of cohesive fractions. The experiments were carried out for sand alone and with cohesive admixtures in the form of clay in the amount of 5, 10, 15 and 20% by weight. The amount of sand fractions retained in the trap and along the control area was measured. The experimental results were compared with the calculation results for transport rate of sand fractions. An intended model of the vertical structure of both sand velocity and concentration as well as vertical mixing and sorting is proposed here in order to determine the influence of cohesive admixtures on the transport of sand fractions. Hence the reduction of sand fractions transport due to cohesion forces is included. The agreement of sand transport calculations according to the extended model with measured results and experimental data from literature was achieved within plus/minus a factor of 2.
Recording Permafrost Thaw and Thaw Lake Degradation in Northern Siberia: School Science in Action
Authors: Kunin Sergey , Semenova Olga , Callaghan Terry V. , Shaduyko Olga , Bodur Vladimir
Published: February 2023

Arctic landscapes are changing dramatically in response to climate changes that are regionally four times faster than the global average. However, these vast lands are sparsely populated and ground-based measurements of environmental change impacts on land and lakes are few compared with the impacted areas. In the Tazovsky District of the Yamalo-Nenets Autonomous Okrug, school science has been put into practice for over 20 years to determine thermokarst lake changes and their causes. We describe the contributions of school science in recording these lake changes and also their local impacts as a contribution to the Siberian Environmental Change Network. Describing the process and results are particularly relevant to the generation that will experience the greatest environmental change impacts. In contrast to the use of traditional indigenous knowledge, we report on a conventional science methodology used by local people that further empowers a new generation to determine for themselves the changes in their environment and associated implications.
Predicting Groundwater Level Based on Machine Learning: A Case Study of the Hebei Plain
Authors: Wu Zhenjiang , Lu Chuiyu , Sun Qingyan , Lu Wen , He Xin , Qin Tao , Yan Lingjia , Wu Chu
Published: February 2023

In recent years, the groundwater level (GWL) and its dynamic changes in the Hebei Plain have gained increasing interest. The GWL serves as a crucial indicator of the health of groundwater resources, and accurately predicting the GWL is vital to prevent its overexploitation and the loss of water quality and land subsidence. Here, we utilized data-driven models, such as the support vector machine, long-short term memory, multi-layer perceptron, and gated recurrent unit models, to predict GWL. Additionally, data from six GWL monitoring stations from 2018 to 2020, covering dynamical fluctuations, increases, and decreases in GWL, were used. Further, the first 70% and remaining 30% of the time-series data were used to train and test the model, respectively. Each model was quantitatively evaluated using the root mean square error (RMSE), coefficient of determination (R2), and Nash–Sutcliffe efficiency (NSE), and they were qualitatively evaluated using time-series line plots, scatter plots, and Taylor diagrams. A comparison of the models revealed that the RMSE, R2, and NSE of the GRU model in the training and testing periods were better than those of the other models at most groundwater monitoring stations. In conclusion, the GRU model performed best and could support dynamic predictions of GWL in the Hebei Plain.
Energy-Optimal Speed Control for Autonomous Electric Vehicles Up- and Downstream of a Signalized Intersection
Authors: Hesami Simin , De Cauwer Cedric , Rombaut Evy , Vanhaverbeke Lieselot , Coosemans Thierry
Published: February 2023

Signalized intersections can increase the vehicle stops and consequently increase the energy consumption by forcing stop-and-go dynamics on vehicles. Eco-driving with the help of connectivity is a solution that could avoid multiple stops and improve energy efficiency. In this paper, an eco-driving framework is developed, which finds the energy-efficient speed profile both up- and downstream of a signalized intersection in free-flow situations (eco-FF). The proposed framework utilizes the signal phasing and timing (SPaT) data that are communicated to the vehicle. The energy consumption model used in this framework is a combination of vehicle dynamics and time-dependent auxiliary consumption, which implicitly incorporates the travel time into the function and is validated with real-world test data. It is shown that, by using the proposed eco-FF framework, the vehicle’s energy consumption is notably reduced.
Problematic aspects of the valuation of financial instruments
Authors:   Federal State Autonomous Educational Institution of Higher Education “Lobachevsky State University of Nizhny Novgorod”, Nizhny Novgorod, Russia, Druzhilovskaya T.Y. , Dobrolyubov N.A. ,   Federal State Autonomous Educational Institution of Higher Education “Lobachevsky State University of Nizhny Novgorod”, Nizhny Novgorod, Russia
Published: February 2023

In the activities of organizations, including healthcare organizations, such objects as financial instruments have recently become increasingly important. This increases the importance of information about such objects presented in the accounting (financial) statements of organizations. Due to the fact that in the accounting (financial) statements the objects of accounting are reflected in the monetary meter, the assessment chosen for them has the most significant influence on the formation of reporting information about the objects. The initial and subsequent valuation of financial instruments (as well as other accounting items) is regulated in accounting standards. At the same time, these standards may allow for various assessment options, the choice of which is provided to the accountant. In addition, various national and international standards may regulate a different approach to the valuation of objects, including for financial instruments. This article explores approaches to the valuation of financial instruments in the systems of Russian and international standards. The research methods were comparison, analysis, synthesis, grouping method, systemic and logical approaches. In the course of the study, a comparison was made of the rules for the formation of the initial and subsequent valuation of financial instruments in PBU 19/02 “Accounting for financial investments” and in IFRS 9 “Financial Instruments”. As a result of the research, aspects of similarities and differences between the regulations of Russian and international standards in relation to the initial and subsequent valuation of financial instruments are systematized. The impact of the identified differences on the value of indicators of financial instruments in the accounting (financial) statements is disclosed.
The concept and essence of economic efficiency as one of the important tasks of economic analysis
Authors:   Federal State Budgetary Educational Institution of Higher Education “Plekhanov Russian University of Economics”, Moscow, Russia, Vavilkin M.S. , Plaskova N.S. ,   Federal State Budgetary Educational Institution of Higher Education “Plekhanov Russian University of Economics”, Moscow, Russia
Published: February 2023

Evaluation of economic efficiency is one of the main tasks of a comprehensive economic analysis. But existing views on the very conceptof “economic efficiency” or “production efficiency” do not let us to accurately determine its meaning, role and place in the system of economic analysis of nowadays. The author of the article was faced with the task of developing an up-to-date definition of economic efficiency, taking into account current trends, factors, risks affecting the financial management of enterprises, on the basis of which it would be possible to develop a detailed system for its assessment. As a conclusion we have proposed a system that divides economic efficiency into internal and external parts, which are also divided into the following elements: the external efficiency consists of operational, investment, market and technological efficiency; internal — of strategic, systemic, financial and personnel efficiency. It should be taken into account that the division into these elements is very conditional due to their close correlation and interdependence. However, the particular definition and system can be used as a basis of a set of quantitative and qualitative indicators for each selected element, based on its role and place in the system of complex economic analysis.
Secure Blockchain-Based Electronic Voting Mechanism
Authors: Su Pin-Chang , Su Tai-Chang
Published: February 2023

Many countries have strived to popularise electronic voting (e-voting), but owing to various security concerns, large-scale elections are still invariably held using paper ballots. Electronic voting systems must find solutions to various issues with authentication, data privacy and integrity, transparency, and verifiability. On the other hand, Blockchain technology offers an innovative solution to many of these problems. In this study, we constructed a private blockchain network with a large number of nodes, which is only accessible to the relevant voters. Because of its decentralised design, the system is robust against attacks by malicious actors. The security of the system was enhanced using an elliptic curve discrete logarithm problem-based blind multi-document signcryption mechanism. As this mechanism can be used to blindly sign and encrypt multiple voting documents in a single pass, it will minimise redundant signing processes and thus improve efficiency. Furthermore, a self-certification mechanism was used in lieu of centralised certificate servers, so that the voters can participate in the computation of public and private keys. In summary, we designed an electronic voting mechanism that is sufficiently secure for practical purposes, which will improve trust in e-voting, and reduce the costs associated with vote checking.
A Brief Review of Massive MIMO Technology for the Next Generation
Authors: Elmutasim Imadeldin
Published: February 2023

Massive Multiple Input Multiple Output (MIMO) is an evolving technology based on the principle of spatial multiplexing winch consisting in using at the same time the same radio frequencies to send different signals. The several transmitting antennas from a base station can transmit different signals and several receiving antennas from a device can receive and divide them simultaneously. Due to the physically difficult of installing antennas close to each other, standard MIMO networks generally limit four antenna-side transmitters and receivers for data transmission while it could be more. The study aims to review the traditional MIMO different types as well as investigates the SNR between Single Input Single Output (SISO) and MIMO to ensure the best wireless connection functionality. In addition to that, a simple comparison to distinguish between SISO, SIMO, MISO, and MIMO in term of capacity and data rate to provide an indication for the quality of the wireless connection. The work's contribution is to illustrate technological benefits like MIMO, which boosts data speeds and increases the reliability of wireless networks. The outcome shows a SISO system would have a lower data rate than other systems because it only has one antenna at the transmitter and receiver, whereas a MISO system would typically have a greater Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR) than a SISO or SIMO system because it uses several transmit antennas. MIMO, however, took advantage of all the positive characteristics and emerged as the best solution overall.
Coverless Data Hiding in VoIP based on DNA Steganography with Authentication
Authors: Soundararajan Deepikaa , Ramakrishnan Saravanan
Published: February 2023

Data hiding in Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) using coverless approach improves the undetectability by preserving the cover bits from modification. This paper focuses on hiding the secret message in VoIP streams using Deoxyribonucleic Acid (DNA) steganography approach. DNA steganography is known for its low cracking probability. The embedding process is done in two steps. The first step converts the VoIP sample, secret message and a user generated key (for Authentication) into m-RNA pattern during transcription and the second step converts the m-RNA to form a triplet during translation process to create a protein array, where the secret message is embedded. The secret message is extracted from the protein array by applying reverse translation and Transcription. The proposed approach improves the undetectability by leaving the cover bits unmodified with PESQ values 84% comparatively greater than the state of art techniques.
Associated factors of the predictions of the type 2 diabetes mellitus risks in the next 10 years by the FINDRISC scale among adults in Thua Thien Hue province
Authors: Doan Phuoc Thuoc , Nguyen Thi Huong , Phan Thi Thuy Linh , Nguyen Thi Thuy Hang , Nguyen Thi Hong Nhi , Nguyen Thi Phuong Thao , Doan Pham Phuoc Long
Published: February 2023

Background: Diabetes mellitus is a common metabolic endocrine disease in the world, and it tends to increase rapidly in many countries and is becoming an obstacle to social development. Therefore, early detection of people with type 2 diabetes mellitus is important in reducing the burden of complications. Research described the risk for the progression of type 2 diabetes mellitus, and some associated factors of the predictive rate among adults in Thua Thien Hue province. Materials and method: A cross-sectional study was conducted on 2258 people living in Thua Thien Hue province. Results: By 2030, the prevalence of type
2 diabetes mellitus by the Asian FINDRISC scale among adults aged 25 and over living in Thua Thien Hue province will be increasing 4.24%. Occupation, history of hypertension, history of dyslipidemia, dyslipidemia treatment were significantly associated with the risk of diabetes mellitus in the next 10 years by the Asian FINDRISC scale. Conclusion: A comprehensive intervention strategy for associated factors is the answer in reducing the risk of type 2 diabetes mellitus in the community.
Key words: Diabetes mellitus, FINDRISC, Thua Thien Hue.
ФОРМУВАННЯ МОТИВІВ ПРОФЕСІЙНОГО ЗРОСТАННЯ
Authors: Зеленський Б. Р.
Published: February 2023

The article proves the importance of forming motivations for professional
growth in students of higher education institutions. The relationship between the
motivations for studying in higher education institutions and the motivations
for professional growth has been established. The sources of the development
of educational and cognitive motives are characterized, the ways of developing
the internal and external motives of students in higher education institutions are
emphasized, examples of the application of effective methods and techniques are
given.
PCL-based nanoparticles for doxorubicin-ezetimibe co-delivery: A combination therapy for prostate cancer using a drug repurposing strategy
Authors: Yousefnezhad Mina , Davaran Soodabeh , Babazadeh Mirzaagha , Akbarzadeh Abolfazl , Pazoki-Toroudi Hamidreza
Published: February 2023

Introduction: Drug repurposing is an effective strategy for identifying the use of approved drugs for new therapeutic purposes. This strategy has received particular attention in the development of cancer chemotherapy. Considering that a growing body of evidence suggesting the cholesterol-lowering drug ezetimibe (EZ) may prevent the progression of prostate cancer, we investigated the effect of EZ alone and in combination with doxorubicin (DOX) on prostate cancer treatment. Methods: In this study, DOX and EZ were encapsulated within a PCL-based biodegradable nanoparticle. The physicochemical properties of drug containing nanoparticle based on PCL-PEG-PCL triblock copolymer (PCEC) have been exactly determined. The encapsulation efficiency and release behavior of DOX and EZ were also studied at two different pHs and temperatures. Results: The average size of nanoparticles (NPs) observed by field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM) was around 82±23.80 nm, 59.7±18.7 nm, and 67.6±23.8 nm for EZ@PCEC, DOX@PCEC, and DOX+EZ@PCEC NPs, respectively, which had a spherical morphology. In addition, DLS measurement showed a monomodal size distribution of around 319.9, 166.8, and 203 nm hydrodynamic diameters and negative zeta potential (-30.3, -6.14, and -43.8) mV for EZ@PCEC, DOX@PCEC, and DOX+EZ@PCEC NPs, respectively. The drugs were released from the NPs sustainably in a pH and temperature-dependent manner. Based on the MTT assay results, PCEC copolymer exhibited negligible cytotoxicity on the PC3 cell line. Therefore, PCEC was a biocompatible and suitable nano-vehicle for this study. The cytotoxicity of the DOX-EZ-loaded NPs on the PC3 cell line was higher than that of NPs loaded with single drugs. All the data confirmed the synergistic effect of EZ in combination with DOX as an anticancer drug. Furthermore, fluorescent microscopy and DAPI staining were performed to show the cellular uptake, and morphological changes-induced apoptosis of treated cells. Conclusion: Overall, the data from the experiments represented the successful preparation of the nanocarriers with high encapsulation efficacy. The designed nanocarriers could serve as an ideal candidate for combination therapy of cancer. The results corroborated each other and presented successful EZ and DOX formulations containing PCEC NPs and their efficiency in treating prostate cancer.
Global vaccine inequities and multilateralism amid COVID-19: Reconnaissance of Global Health Diplomacy as a panacea?
Authors: Singh Bawa , Kaur Jaspal , Chattu Vijay Kumar
Published: February 2023

Background: The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has shown a crystal-clear warning that nobody will be safe until everybody is safe against the pandemic. However, how everyone is safe when the pandemic’s fat tail risks have broken every nerve of the global economy and healthcare facilities, including vaccine equity. Vaccine inequity has become one of the critical factors for millions of new infections and deaths during this pandemic. Against the backdrop of exponentially growing infected cases of COVID-19 along with vaccine in-equity, this paper will examine how multilateralism could play its role in mitigating vaccine equity through Global Health Diplomacy (GHD). Second, given the most affected developing countries’ lack of participation in multilateralism, could GHD be left as an option in the worst-case scenario?. Methods: In this narrative review, a literature search was conducted in all the popular databases, such as Scopus, Web of Science, PubMed and Google search engines for the keywords in the context of developing countries and the findings are discussed in detail. Results: In this multilateral world, the global governance institutions in health have been monopolized by the global North, leading to COVID-19 vaccine inequities. GHD aids health protection and public health and improves international relations. Besides, GHD facilitates a broad range of stakeholders’ commitment to collaborate in improving healthcare, achieving fair outcomes, achieving equity, and reducing poverty. Conclusion: Vaccine inequity is a major challenge of the present scenario, and GHD has been partly successful in being a panacea for many countries in the global south.
Navigating the broken road: A call to strengthen access, equity, and inclusivity in the care of children with developmental disabilities and neurobehavioral disorders
Authors: Jawed Aysha , Peck Christine
Published: February 2023

There is a significant scarcity of resources to achieve behavioral stabilization among children and adolescents with moderate to severe developmental disabilities and neurobehavioral disorders. In total, there are currently 76 inpatient pediatric neurobehavioral programs to support these patients across the United States. Many states do not currently have programs of this nature. Across existing programs, there are substantial waiting lists. In addition, non-public school, intensive day program, in-home and additional outpatient services are not reaching these patients fast enough which further exacerbate the sequalae of suboptimal outcomes and future quality of life implications for these patients. In addition, disparities remain in how the chronicity of developmental disabilities and neurobehavioral disorders are addressed within our healthcare system. It is crucial to categorize this constellation of specialized conditions as chronic illnesses which warrant continued care and treatment, similar in nature to lifelong medical conditions. Further time and priority are warranted in increasing accessibility, equity, and inclusivity in our U.S. healthcare system to optimize a range of health and developmental outcomes for these patients. Future work in this domain could also contribute towards the larger goal of the World Health Organization, Healthy People 2030, and the Sustainable Development Goals of the United Nations in securing delivery of healthcare services that are inclusive, equitable and accessible for individuals with disabilities.
The survival rate of neonates in Pakistan: Problems in health care access, quality and recommendations
Authors: Muzzamil Muhammad , Nisa Maryam , Raza Shaeroz
Published: February 2023

There is a high prevalence of infant mortality in South Asia and other parts of Asia, but overall, the bulk of neonatal deaths occur in developing countries. Although Pakistan has made great strides in the past decade to reduce child mortality with the help of foreign donors and the government, very little progress has been made in reducing neonate and infant mortality. Several studies have demonstrated the potential for low-cost therapies to greatly reduce neonatal mortality by helping pregnant mothers and their newborns. We need to shed light on the efforts and problems surrounding this topic in order to find and implement solutions backed by research to lower newborn mortality. This brief overview was produced using international standards for conducting reviews. Researchers opted for an explanatory methodology. Our findings were based on research conducted through PubMed, Google’s literature database, Journals Online, and the Internet Library. All of the works consulted primary sources, such as the World Health Organization (WHO) and the World Bank. The desired findings were obtained by using the term "neonatal mortality." The study’s authors were interested in tracking variations in neonatal mortality over time. The increasing prevalence of neonatal death in Pakistan emphasizes the need for policies and programs that prioritized the health of children. Neonatal survival can be improved with the help of basic obstetric and newborn care in Pakistan.
Revealing Facts About CAR-T Cell Therapy
Authors: Padmanjali Daggupati Sai , Revathi Boyina , Jalaiah Marri
Published: February 2023

Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-T cell therapy is a fast-emerging treatment for several types of cancers and has several applications beyond oncology. It is a new emerging treatment targeting for a broad range of cancers. The objective of this review is to provide the trending information on CAR-T cell therapies, basic principles involved in the CAR-T cell therapy, structure of CAR-T cell, and mainly various clinical applications in the field of oncology as well as beyond oncology, and major side effects of CAR-T cell therapy, methods to overcome the risk factors and to minimize the cost. Although, the cost of treatment is enormous, cost effectiveness can be done by understanding the demand informed by tertiary healthcare centers to manufacture units for decreasing the complexity of the procedure. But this therapy is associated with few-toxicities. Monitoring these toxicities and minimizing the severity is the main future prospective of CAR-T cell therapy. The next stage in developing CAR-T cell therapy for malignancies is to limit exposure to specific cells because future CAR-T cells can target different antigens. Due to the increasing number of potential targets for CAR-T cell therapy, this approach’s tremendous success in treating cancer may also be used to the treatment of other diseases.
Combinational Therapy of Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia with Cyclophosphamide and BV6 Synergistically Induces Apoptosis in Leukemic Cells
Authors: Sadeghi Mohammad , Hamdi Hajibaba Hamid , Valizadeh Yaser , Movasaghpour Akbari Ali Akbar , Hosseinpour Feizi Abbas Ali , Aghebati-Maleki Leili , Jadidi-Niaragh Farhad
Published: February 2023

Background: Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), a hematological malignancy, is associated with the accumulation of lymphoblasts in hematopoietic tissues and the peripheral blood (PB). A major obstacle in ALL treatment is the failure to undergo apoptosis, thus resulting in relapses. Cyclophosphamide is an alkylating agent widely used to treat various cancers. BV6 is another agent, under preclinical and clinical trials, which inhibits the function of inhibitors of apoptosis proteins (IAPs) in cells. According to previous studies, IAPs are highly overexpressed in ALL cells. Also, the intrinsic apoptosis pathway is reported to be dysfunctional in ALL cells, making BV6 a new promising option due to its potential to induce extrinsic cell death as well. Methods: In the current study, the inhibitory effect of the combinational treatment of cyclophosphamide and BV6 was studied on the cell growth of eleven ALL patients using an MTT test. Subsequently, the effect of the treatment was studied on TNF-α secretion as well. Finally, we measured the DNA fragmentation rates of treated cells as well. Results: The results indicated a synergistic effect between the drugs on the viability of cells. Also, the impact of the cotreatment was increased in a time-dependent manner. We also found that BV6, but not cyclophosphamide, induces TNF-α secretion, activating the extrinsic apoptosis pathway as well. Conclusion: BV6, by inducing intrinsic and extrinsic pathways, overcomes cyclophosphamide resistance. These results suggest the combinational use of BV6 and cyclophosphamide for the treatment of ALL patients. Inhibition of IAPs helps overcome the failure to undergo apoptosis and can improve the prognosis of ALL patients.
The visual perception of aligned and crowded maxillary lateral incisors when smiling via eye tracking
Authors: Meira Thiago Martins , Gasparello Gil Guilherme , Antelo Oscar Mario , Castilhos Jussimar Scheffer , Bark Mohamad Jamal , Tanaka Orlando Motohiro
Published: February 2023

Background. This study aimed to investigate whether the alignment of the teeth while smiling alters the visual perception by laypeople using eye tracking. Methods. Facial images (two males and two females) were digitally edited to show a smile pattern with aligned teeth and one with crowded teeth. Sixty laypeople were selected to observe the images. The number of fixations, fixation duration, and time until the first fixation were recorded using an eye-tracking system. The results were qualitatively calculated with dot maps. Numerical data were analyzed using an independent Student’s t test. Results. There were no significant differences in fixation duration and the number of fixations in the crowded smile, mainly that of the male. The fixation times for the teeth were significantly different when the participants viewed the male subjects with a crowded smile (P<0.05). Dot maps showed greater attention to the smile with crowded teeth in both genders. Conclusion. The crowded maxillary incisor smile attracted more visual attention to males from laypeople.
Comparison of reverse torque values of abutment screws with the application of oil-based and water-based antibacterial agents
Authors: Nourizadeh Amin , Shafiee Elnaz , Khorramdel Azin , Mousavi Seyed Amin , Rahbar Mehran
Published: February 2023

Background. Using antibacterial agents to remove the foul odor of the implant cavity and prevent peri-implantitis can affect the detorque values and lead to the loosening of the abutment screw. This study investigated the effects of tetracycline and chlorhexidine gel on detorque values. Methods. This in vitro study was carried out on three groups of five implants. Group G1 was the control group, and no material was applied to the implant cavity. In group G2, the implant cavity was first filled with artificial saliva and then with chlorhexidine gel. In group G3, the implant cavity was first filled with artificial saliva and then with tetracycline. The abutments were tightened with 25 N/cm2 and then loosened. Finally, the detorque values were calculated. Results. The highest detorque values were recorded in group G1. Group G3 showed the lowest detorque values. ANOVA showed significant differences in mean detorque values (P<0.05) between the three groups. Conclusion. According to this study, applying antibacterial agents decreased the detorque values and increased the risk of screw loosening. The reduction of detorque values was more pronounced with the oil-based antibacterial agent (tetracycline).
Implant-supported zirconia fixed partial dentures cantilevered in the lateral-posterior area: A 4-year clinical results
Authors: D'Albis Giuseppe , D'Albis Vincenzo , Susca Bart , Palma Micol , Al Krenawi Nizar
Published: February 2023

Background. Implant-supported cantilever prostheses enable a more straightforward rehabilitation and may be a therapeutic option to reduce treatment morbidity, costs, and time. This study evaluated the clinical outcomes of fixed implant-supported partial dentures made of monolithic zirconia with a cantilever design to replace missing posterior teeth. Methods. Fifteen partially edentulous patients received 34 implants and were provided with 16 zirconia fixed partial prostheses (FPPs) with one cantilever extension replacing mandibular or maxillary missing posterior and lateral teeth. Patients were re-examined for up to 4 years. Patient ages ranged from 41 to 65 years, with a mean age of 53±12 years; 47% were female, and 53% were male. The patients were observed for a mean period of 42±6 months with a minimum of 3 years and a maximum of 4 years. Results. Peri-implantitis was observed in two cases. No chipping or fracture of any FPP was detected. Loosening of the abutment screw was a technical complication in one case. The rehabilitation survival rate was 100%. Implant-supported zirconia FPP with one mesial cantilever extension provides an aesthetic, functional treatment alternative to replace missing molars, premolars, and canines. These excellent clinical outcomes occurred over a mean observation time of 42±6 months. Conclusion. Using monolithic zirconia milled with CAD-CAM technology might be an alternative to the metal-ceramic restoration in implant-supported FPP with one cantilever.
Technology Enhanced Language Learning Research Trends and Practices: A Systematic Review (2020-2022)
Authors: Zainuddin Nurkhamimi
Published: February 2023

In recent years, the role of technology in language classrooms has grown in importance. Due to recent developments in the education sector, technology-enhanced language learning (TELL) has come into the spotlight. Previous studies have shown that technology encourages both instructors and students to take an active role in the language learning process. In light of the widespread adoption and enabling power of immersive technologies and the potential applications of TELL, it is imperative that the literature be continuously investigated to identify the types and tendencies of recent studies in order to understand current practises and guide future research in the field with two research questions; RQ1: What are the trends and practices of TELL in language teaching and learning? and RQ2: What are the research methodologies employed in TELL studies? This review carefully examines the overall research trends and practises in language education in order to chart the development of TELL during the past few years. Out of 87 publications found in 2020–2022, 17 were selected using exclusion and inclusion criteria from Web of Science (WoS) and Scopus. Using five codes obtained from previous systematic reviews, we performed an analysis and synthesis of these publications. The codes are: 1) aim, 2) methodology, 3) sample, 4) country, and 5) outcomes. The bulk of the studies used a quantitative research technique to look into TELL trends and practises in language teaching and learning, and the systematic review found that TELL was more widespread in universities than in other types of schools, with the lowest occurrence seen in primary schools. In light of these findings, suggestions for more investigation were made. Academicians are urged to broaden the scope of future study and include students from all levels of education in future TELL practises in order to better understand TELL's usage in language teaching and learning.
Evaluation of conflict behaviour strategies of communicative tolerance in the system of staff turnover prevention
Authors: Kostina Elena V.
Published: February 2023

The article is devoted to the study of the dominant strategies of conflict behaviour and communicative tolerance of cadets and students of the educational organisation of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Russia. The results of an empirical study conducted on a sample of 7770 cadets and trainees are considered. It is shown that communicative tolerance determines strategies of conflict behaviour and has an impact on staff turnover. It was revealed that cadets and students of the Moscow University of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Russia named after V.Ya. Kikot’ demonstrate a high level of communicative tolerance, which is manifested in their attitude to various social groups, acceptance of the individual characteristics of colleagues, faculty, management. The structure of conflict behaviour strategies defines the presence of indicators of ‟avoidance and self-blame” (the direction of reaction to oneself, with the acceptance of guilt or responsibility for correcting the situation that has arisen, and it is not subject to condemnation) and ‟aggressiveness and conflict.” The conducted research confirmed the need to continue working on the formation of conflict-free behaviour and communicative tolerance of cadets and trainees in the system of staff turnover prevention and the creation of a number of psychological and pedagogic conditions. Scientific and practical recommendations on the formation of conflict-free behaviour and communicative tolerance of cadets and trainees in the system of staff turnover prevention are proposed.
Interrelation of the level of satisfaction with appearance with value-semantic orientations and seif-attitude in the period of youth
Authors: Fassakhova Tatiana A. , Dobrynin Igor M.
Published: February 2023

The article is devoted to determining the value structure of the personality and establishing the place of the value of the external appearance in the general structure of value orientations; establishing the influence of external appearance on various spheres of students’ life; identifying differences between respondents with high and medium levels of satisfaction with their own appearance; establishing relationships between the level of satisfaction with the appearance, values of young people and self-attitude. The sample consisted of young people (n = 108), boys (n = 46) and girls (n = 62) aged 18-20, first-year students of the Urals Federal University, Yekaterinburg. The results of the analysis showed the following value-semantic structure of the young person's personality – health, self-confidence, personal development, love (physical and spiritual intimacy), material security. Appearance takes the 15th place. In the views of students, an attractive appearance affects the sphere of communication and friendship. There are no significant differences in the value structure of personality between respondents with different levels of satisfaction with appearance. The authors come to the conclusion that the higher the young people's assessment of their own appearance, the higher the level of positive self-attitude, self-confidence, expected attitude from others. The level of satisfaction with appearance and the level of self-accusation are in inverse proportion.