1406 research outputs found
Sort by
Innovative Political Strategies in the European Union for Combating Sexual Violence
No full textINTRODUCTION: Sexual violence is a growing global issue requiring innovative solutions for effective prevention and response. This research investigates innovative political strategies across the European Union to address sexual violence at a local level, with a focus on their potential application elsewhere.
METHOD: The data was gathered through interviews and surveys with individuals from European organizations involved in relevant projects, which the author connected with through the Innovation in Politics Awards. In collaboration with The Innovation in Politics Institute based in Vienna, Austria, and guided by Critical Theory and Radical Feminist Theory, which both highlight marginalized voices affected by sexual violence, the study utilized participant observation, interviews, and surveys. Care was taken to ensure that research participants were not from vulnerable populations, and ethical guidelines were followed to protect individuals from harm while ensuring that their voices were heard respectfully and responsibly. A 90-day internship in Vienna provided direct insight into EU stakeholders\u27 work, while interviews and surveys gathered perspectives on local impacts and adaptability. Primary source analysis, including reports, webinars, and forums, revealed key patterns and gaps, which were analyzed through documentary research. This analysis contributed to the academic discussion on effective global strategies by drawing on secondary sources to help situate and make sense of the findings in the case study.
RESULTS: The main findings affirm that local interventions and person-centered care are key in addressing gender-based violence. Success depends on adapting strategies to local needs and cultural contexts.
CONCLUSION: This research concludes that local strategies can contribute to global solutions for sexual violence, aligning with human rights standards of dignity, equality, and justice
Computational Design and Docking-Based Analysis of IMP- 1088 Derivatives as NMT Inhibitors
No full textINTRODUCTION: IMP-1088 is a potent and selective inhibitor of N-myristoyltransferases (NMT1 and NMT2), enzymes that catalyze the myristoylation of proteins essential for cellular signaling, pathogen survival, and disease progression. Given its therapeutic significance, optimizing the structure of IMP-1088 to enhance its efficacy and pharmacokinetic properties is crucial. This study focuses on the structure-activity relationship (SAR) of IMP-1088 by designing and analyzing ten novel molecules with strategic fluorine (F) modifications along with other elements, altering both the position and number of the atoms. Fluorine substitutions are known to influence drug-likeness, metabolic stability, and molecular interactions, making them a valuable approach in drug design.
METHOD: This research is a docking-based computational study that utilizes various molecular modeling tools, including MGL Tools, AutoDock Vina, PyMOL, and MolView. Through molecular docking simulations, this study assesses the binding affinity of each modified IMP-1088 analog to NMT1 and NMT2, determining how fluorine alterations impact interaction stability within the active site. Additionally, ADMET (Absorption, Distribution, Metabolism, Excretion, and Toxicity) predictions will be performed to evaluate pharmacokinetic properties and potential off-target effects. The integration of docking studies with structural visualization and computational analyses will provide deeper insights into the molecular mechanisms governing NMT inhibition.
CONCLUSION: By leveraging advanced computational techniques, this research aims to contribute to the rational design of next-generation NMT inhibitors with improved selectivity, bioavailability, and therapeutic potential. The findings from this study may serve as a foundation for further experimental validation and drug development efforts in targeting NMT-related diseases
Evaluating the Effectiveness of Chemical Agents and OMVs in Disrupting Biofilm in Escherichia coli
No full textGram-negative bacteria have been a major obstacle in the field of medicine, due to its resistance against antibiotics. This resistance is due to the production of biofilm, which is an extracellular matrix that surrounds the bacteria and prevents antibiotics from passing through. In order to begin tackling this issue, DH5-alpha strains of Escherichia coli were grown in LB, inoculated in 96-well polystyrene plates, and left to rest at 37 degrees Celsius for one week to help with biofilm growth. Varying concentrations of detergents such as Tween-20, Triton X-100, and Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate (SDS), along with OMVs produced by Pseudomonas aeruginosa, were then tested as factors to disrupt or displace biofilm produced by E. coli. Biofilm displacement called for the detergents and OMVs to be inoculated in 96-well polystyrene plates an hour after the biofilm developed for a week, while biofilm disruption called for the detergents and OMVs to be inoculated alongside the E. coli under the above-mentioned conditions. Biofilm growth was measured based on the amount of crystal violet staining on the wells of the plates, which was then normalized to optical density measurements taken at 600 nm to determine how effective the detergents and OMVs were at impacting the biofilm. Once these observations have been made, I would like to look into the possibility of using OMVs as delivery agents to directly present antibiotics to bacteria such as P.aeruginosa. I would like to further look into anti-biofilm factors tested in previous studies, such as the use of extracellular enzymes, quorum quenching, and combining antibiotics with factors such as antimicrobial peptides or amino acids, to test whether these are more effective than the above-mentioned strategies
Role of Object Relations and Personality Functioning in a Sample of Young Adults with Personality Pathology
No full textINTRODUCTION: Due to the existing measurement and diagnostic issues that exist within the context of personality pathology, an Alternative Model for Personality Disorder was created in the DSM-5. Level of personality functioning is central to the conceptualization of the alternative model yet neither object relations functioning nor level of personality functioning has been sufficiently examined within the context of interpersonal problems individuals with personality pathology experience. As such, the current study seeks to examine the role of level of personality functioning and object relations functioning in interpersonal problems utilizing a sample of individuals with personality pathology, i.e. Massively Multiplayer Online Role Playing Gamers (MMPORG).
METHOD: Participants were recruited online and first asked to fill out multiple self-report questionnaires including a demographics form, Personality Inventory for the DSM-5 Reduced Form (PID-5 RF), Inventory of Interpersonal Problems Short Circumflex Form (IIP-SC), and The DSM-5 Levels of Personality Functioning Questionnaire (DLOPFQ). Secondly, they were then presented with four TAT cards and asked to audio record their responses. These responses were then coded using the Social Cognition and Object Relation Scale Global (SCORS-G) scoring system. A parallel mediation analysis was conducted to examine the indirect effects of both level of personality functioning and object relations functioning on the relationship between personality pathology and interpersonal problems.
CONCLUSION: While the overall statistical model was significantly able to predict interpersonal problems, only the indirect effect of levels of personality functioning was found to be significant. Limitations of this study include a sample that was targeted to capture schizoid personality features and the method variance introduced by including multiple reporting style measures. Due to the lack of insight that is often present in individuals with personality pathology, future research should continue to examine how best to capture personality pathology using a sample that includes more variance in personality pathology
Genetic Counselors\u27 Practices and Protocols in Variant Interpretation of Variants of Uncertain Significance (VUS): A Comprehensive Investigation
No full textIntroduction: Variant interpretation, particularly for Variants of Uncertain Significance (VUS), remains a critical challenge in clinical genetics. Genetic counselors play a vital role in assessing, interpreting, and communicating these variants to patients. However, variability in practices and workflows can impact consistency in patient care. This study aims to investigate current practices among clinical genetic counselors in North America regarding VUS interpretation, management, and reclassification protocols. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted over two months, targeting clinical genetic counselors across North America. Participants were recruited via professional networks such as the National Society of Genetic Counselors (NSGC) and the American Board of Genetic Counseling (ABGC). The survey, hosted on SurveyMonkey, comprised 23 questions, including multiple-choice and Likert-scale items, covering demographics, clinical workflows, variant interpretation methods, and protocols for reclassification. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze quantitative responses, while thematic analysis was applied to qualitative data. Results and Conclusion: Findings revealed that most genetic counselors consistently review evidence from genetic test reports and external resources (e.g., GeneReviews, OMIM, ClinVar, Franklin Genoox). While disagreements with laboratory variant classifications were uncommon, they often stemmed from conflicting lab interpretations or discrepancies in clinical correlation. VUS reclassification was reported frequently, yet protocols for notifying patients varied. Most participants notified patients of reclassification to pathogenic or benign categories, but communication methods differed. Additionally, high patient caseloads, particularly in cancer genetics, may impact the ability to dedicate time to variant interpretation and follow-up. These findings highlight the need for standardized workflows to ensure consistency in VUS interpretation and patient communication. Future research should focus on assessing the impact of these workflows on patient care and developing strategies to harmonize variant interpretation practices across specialties
The Impacts of α-GPC and Creatine Supplements on Memory and Cognition in Mice
No full textAlpha-glyceryl-phosphorylcholine (α-GPC) is a supplement shown to increase strength, mental cognition, anxiety, and other bodily functions. Taking α-GPC increases acetylcholine levels, a neurotransmitter which promotes brain function (Noble et al., 2015). Creatine is another supplement used to increase strength and muscle function, but has also been proven to increase cognitive function. Creatine, in its many forms, can improve spatial awareness and long-term memory (Zhang et al., 2018). Mice are commonly used model organisms due to their similarities to humans genotypically, allowing this study to produce similar results to those displayed by humans. In this experiment, there were 3 supplements: α-GPC, creatine monohydrate, and creatine hydrochloride. The α-GPC mice were given 3 doses: a normal-dose, a high-dose, and no-dose (control). The creatine mice (of both types) were given the same dosage amount, and each had their own control group. The mice were both male and female. To test the supplement’s effects, the mice were evaluated using methods such as the Novel Object Test and the Morris Water Maze to examine their cognitive and recall abilities. This study was intended to determine if α-GPC and both Creatine Monohydrate and Hydrochloride improves memory and cognition. This study also seeks to determine which supplement, if any, has a greater effect
Removal of Bacterial Biofilm Matrix Using Novel Anti-Biofilm Compounds to Enhance the Antimicrobial Susceptibility of Bacteria Causing Chronic Infections
No full textIntroduction: Chronic bacterial infections often result in biofilm formation in the infected site. Bacteria within a biofilm are more resistant to antibiotics due to extracellular matrix (ECM) formation. Removal of most of the ECM should enhance the efficacy of antibiotics and clear the bacteria more quickly. For some Infections, such as endocarditis, surgery is required to replace an infected valve due to advanced biofilm formation. Treatment with compounds that remove most of the ECM in combination with antibiotics may abrogate the need for such surgery. Methods: Histophilus somni (responsible for bovine respiratory disease and myocarditis) and Enterococcus faecalis (isolates from human endocarditis) were grown in supplemented Columbia broth or Tryptic soy broth, respectively. Biofilms were formed in 96-well polystyrene plates or tissue cultures for 3 days at 37°C. Biofilms were stained with crystal violet, the wells rinsed with phosphate buffered saline, and the stain solubilised with 95% EtOH. Biofilms were quantified by determining the absorbance of each sample at 562 nm in comparison to controls. Biofilms on tissue cultures were examined by confocal laser scanning microscopy. Compounds from the Virginia Tech Center for Drug Discovery were added to established biofilms for up to 24 hours before staining with crystal violet to assess ECM removal. Results: Of 5000 compounds screened, three removed 75% or more of the H. somni (bovine myocarditis pathogen) biofilm, and two (labelled as compound A or compound B) were particularly effective. One compound or the other at a concentration of \u3e30 mM also removed more than 50% of the biofilm ECM of several E. faecalis endocarditis isolates. Neither compound was toxic for bovine respiratory epithelial cells at the concentrations used (30-100 mM). Combining both compounds could enhance biofilm removal, and could broaden the efficacy of biofilm removal for multiple species and strains. Conclusions: Removal of most of the bacterial biofilm by non-toxic compounds may greatly aid the effectiveness of antibiotic therapy and improve patient management. Studies are currently underway to determine if these compounds lower the biofilm MIC of these pathogens and remove biofilms from tissue culture cells
A Procedure for Making Biofilm Biobanking a Reality / Old title: Biofilm Biobanking
No full textBiobanking is the process of collecting, storing, and managing biological samples for long-term preservation and future research. While well-established systems exist for biobanking human tissues, fluids, and other biological materials, no standardized system currently exists for experimental bacterial biofilms. Biofilms, which are complex communities of bacteria encased in a self-produced extracellular matrix, are of particular interest due to their role in infectious diseases and environmental ecosystems. Developing a specialized biobank for bacterial biofilms would be a significant advancement in microbiological research. This study presents methodologies for collecting, storing, and preserving bacterial biofilm samples while maintaining their structural and genetic integrity once recovered. Establishing a reliable biofilm biobank will provide researchers with a valuable resource to study microbial interactions, test antimicrobial agents, and investigate biofilm resilience under different conditions
Days of Future Past: The Legacy and Self-Efficacy of Black and Hispanic Educators in Predominantly White School Districts
No full textThis mixed-methods dissertation investigates the self-efficacy of Black, Hispanic, and Multiracial educators in predominantly White institutions (PWIs), examining its connections to job satisfaction, career development, and perceived impact on students. Data from 34 participants, collected using the Teachers’ Sense of Efficacy Scale (TSES), indicated high overall self-efficacy, particularly in instructional strategies and classroom management. A one-way ANOVA revealed a statistically significant effect of race/ethnicity on total self-efficacy scores, with Black educators reporting significantly higher scores than their Hispanic and Multiracial peers (η² = .271). A simple linear regression using years of educational experience as the sole predictor did not produce statistically significant results, suggesting that other unmeasured factors may influence self-efficacy. Qualitative interviews with 12 educators expanded on these findings, showing that self-efficacy was often sustained through personal resilience rather than institutional support. Participants described navigating racial bias, professional isolation, and cultural disconnects while serving as affirming and supportive figures for students of color. Eight key themes emerged: Leadership Support, Emotional Safety and Advocacy, Career Development and Leadership Aspiration, Curriculum and Cultural Representation, Identity and Bias, Policy, Meaningful Connection, and Impact on Students of Color. These findings highlight the need for equity-driven leadership practices and more nuanced, disaggregated data that go beyond surface-level metrics. High self-efficacy among Black and Hispanic educators may not reflect institutional validation, but rather the persistence and agency required to thrive within structurally inequitable systems
Caffeine vs. Guarana: Can AI Predict Which Stimulant Packs the Bigger Punch?
No full textINTRODUCTION: This systematic literature review explores the potential of artificial intelligence (AI) in predicting the stimulant effects of caffeine compared to Gera, a lesser-known stimulant. Caffeine, a widely consumed psychoactive substance, is known for its ability to enhance alertness and improve cognitive performance. In contrast, Gera, derived from the plant species *Catha edulis*, has gained attention for its stimulant properties but remains under-researched in comparison to affeine.
METHOD: The review synthesizes existing studies that examine the pharmacological mechanisms, subjective effects, and physiological responses associated with both stimulants. By leveraging AI algorithms, this research aims to analyze large datasets from clinical studies, user-reported outcomes, and biochemical analyses to discern patterns and predict the relative stimulant effects of caffeine and Gera.
CONCLUSION: The findings will contribute to a deeper understanding of how these substances influence human cognition and behavior and highlight the potential of AI as a tool for research in psychopharmacology. This systematic review not only aims to clarify the stimulant effects of caffeine and Gera but also seeks to demonstrate the efficacy of AI in synthesizing and interpreting complex data, paving the way for future studies in the field. Through this exploration, we aim to establish a framework for utilizing AI in predicting the effects of various stimulants, which could have significant implications for health, wellness, and the food and beverage industry