bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
COVID-19 lockdown led to an unprecedented increase in inequality
Authors: Dasgupta Shouro , Emmerling Johannes
Published: February 2021

The COVID-19 pandemic has affected households across the globe due to the health impacts but also through indirect socioeconomic effects as a result of the additional stress on the health systems, implications of the lockdowns and other policy measures undertaken by governments. Moreover, there is evidence that these impacts are associated with socioeconomic characteristics of households and could lead to an increase in inequality and poverty. In this paper, we conduct a first assessment based on household surveys in a large set of countries and analyze the determinants of income shocks at the household-level and macroeconomic inequality implications. While the average income losses of on average 4% but up to 27% are already high (similar to GDP losses in 2020 of on average 6% in our sample), we find an even more striking increase in inequality, of up to several points (1.2 points on average) of the typically very flat Gini index. Across countries, we find that on average an additional one percentage point loss in GDP was associated with an increase in theGini by one percentage point. Analyzing the determinants of the income shock, we find strong evidence of heterogeneity with higher likelihood of income shocks for poorer, female-led, and less-educated households. The results indicate that we are experiencing an unprecedented crisis also in terms of economic inequality. The policy response to limit the macroeconomic repercussions therefore should explicitly include reducing inequality. Otherwise, a rebuilt macro-economy, will exhibit a much higher degree of social and economic inequality that are likely to persist.
Can synoptic patterns influence the track and formation of tropical cyclones in the Mozambique Channel?
Authors: Ibebuchi Chibuike Chiedozie
Published: February 2021

The influence of large-scale circulation patterns on the track and formation of tropical cyclones (TCs) in the Mozambique Channel is investigated in this paper. The output of the hourly classification of circulation types (CTs), in Africa, south of the equator, using rotated principal component analysis on the T-mode matrix (variable is time series and observation is grid points) of sea level pressure (SLP) from ERA5 reanalysis from 2010 to 2019 was used to investigate the time development of the CTs at a sub-daily scale. The result showed that at specific seasons, certain CTs can persist for a longer time so that their features overlap with other CTs. CTs with synoptic features favorable for the development of TC in the Mozambique Channel were noted. The 2019 TC season in the Mozambique Channel characterized by TC Idai in March and TC Kenneth afterward in April was used in evaluating how the CTs designated to have TC characteristics played role in the formation and track of the TCs towards their maximum intensity. The results were discussed and it generally showed that large-scale circulation patterns might influence the formation and track of the TCs in the Mozambique Channel especially through the different modes of variability associated with the western branch of the Mascarene high.
Ethnoveterinary Practices of Medicinal Plants and Non-plant Remedies Used in Animal Health Management in Dawuro Zone, Southern Ethiopia
Authors: Dinbiso Tegegn Dilbato , Fulasa Tadele Tolesa , Begna Feyissa Deressa
Published: February 2021

Background: Ethnoveterinary medicine is frequently used for treating various livestock diseases by many different ethnic groups in Ethiopia. To this end, the indigenous knowledge of medicinal plants and non-plant remedies has not been systematically documented and studied in the Dawuro zone. Therefore, a community based cross-sectional study design was conducted from November, 2017 to September, 2018 in order to identify and document medicinal plants and non-plant remedies used in animal health management.Methods: Relevant information on ethnoveterinary practice was collected from purposively selected 115 key informants using semi-structured questionnaire, focus group discussions, observations and field guided walk methods. The obtained data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, quantitative ethnobotanical methods and t-test and significantly test was set to p< 0.05. The plants claimed having medicinal value were collected and botanically identified.Results: The study revealed 103 plant species belong to 47 families and 11 non-plant remedies used to manage 36 different livestock ailments. Family Asteraceae accounted for 11.5% of the total species recorded. The majority of plants (56.2%) were harvested from wild habitat. Herbs (33.8%) were the main source of medicine followed by tree (30.6%). Leaves (43.6%) and roots (27.5%) were the main plant parts used while pounding was the major form in remedy preparation. The highest Informant Consensus Factor (0.83) value was scored for the disease of the reproductive system. Significant difference (P<0.05) was observed in average number of therapeutic plants reported by illiterate higher than literate groups. Cyphostemma flavicans (Baker) Desc. and Pentas schimperi were showed the highest Fidelity Level (100%) to treat disease of the reproductive system, and emaciation and bone fracture as plant materials whereas Bear faeces, sharp hot iron or wire/knife, and common salt were non-plant remedies used in the study area.Conclusion: The study revealed that the local community of in the study areas was used with a rich of indigenous knowledge of ethnoveterinary medicinal plants. The loss of valuable medicinal plant resources of the area calls for urgent and coordinated actions to develop conservation strategies.
Anforderungsstrukturen inklusiv-medialen pädagogischen Handelns
Authors: Ferraro Estella , Gasterstädt Julia , Wahl Johannes
Published: February 2021

Pädagogisches Handeln als Interaktion innerhalb eines Arbeitsbündnisses unterliegt diversen Anforderungsstrukturen, die jenseits dieser Interaktionssituationen verhandelt werden. Im Zuge struktureller Veränderungen auf gesellschaftlicher Ebene tauchen immer neue zusätzliche Anforderungen auf, die in das berufskulturelle Mandat integriert werden sollen. Der vorliegende Beitrag thematisiert aus einer primär systemtheoretischen Perspektive den Wandel von Anforderungsstrukturen, die durch die parallele Verhandlung der Megathemen Digitalisierung und Inklusion angestossen werden. Dabei liegt der Fokus sowohl auf den Veränderungen im Bildungssystem durch die strukturelle Kopplung mit anderen gesellschaftlichen Funktionssystemen als auch auf den Aushandlungsprozessen darin, was anhand der Digitalisierungs- und Inklusionsdiskurse aufgezeigt wird. Es wird herausgearbeitet, wie sich die Anforderungsstrukturen inklusiv-medialer Bildung gestalten und welche Rolle dabei die Erwartungen gesellschaftlicher Teilsysteme einnehmen. Der Beitrag zielt auf einen (selbst)kritischen Blick in Bezug auf die Verstrickung in die eigenen Systemlogiken und die damit verbundenen strukturellen Kopplungen.
Inklusiv lernen – digital kommunizieren
Authors: Redecker Anke
Published: February 2021

Ausgehend von einem durch Ulrich Bröckling kritisierten «unternehmerischen Selbst», das sich in der gegenwärtigen Leistungsgesellschaft auch lernend wie ein Unternehmen eigeninitiativ zu führen habe, dessen so charakterisierte Subjektivierung jedoch letztlich eine fremdgesteuerte ist, zeigen sich digital Lernende mit Behinderung aufgrund ihrer Leistungseinschränkungen in besonderem Masse als Wettbewerbsverliererinnen und -verlierer. Zugleich können sie verschiedene technische Möglichkeiten behinderungsgerecht zur kritischen Bildung nutzen. Gefordert sind hierbei Lehrpersonen mit einer verantwortlich begründeten Urteilsflexibilität, die auf der Grundlage ihrer fachlichen Versiertheit an der Schnittstelle von Inklusions- und Medienpädagogik die ihnen anvertrauten Bildungssubjekte in deren situativen Herausforderungen unterstützen können.
Inklusion durch digitale Medien?
Authors: Jochim Valerie
Published: February 2021

Ein Weiterbildungsangebot für pädagogisch-pflegerische Fachkräfte zum Thema Inklusion und digitale Medien wurde im Rahmen des Projektes PADIGI – Partizipation digital entwickelt. Mit Blick auf den Arbeitsalltag des Fachpersonals, das häufig im Schichtdienst tätig ist, wurde der Kurs Inklusiv digital als Blended-Learning-Format konzipiert. Zwei Erprobungen bieten die Möglichkeit, begleitend zu evaluieren, wie ein solches Format fortführend angepasst werden muss, um Fachkräften eine bestmögliche Basis zur Auseinandersetzung mit dem Themenfeld zur Verfügung zu stellen. Es zeigt sich, dass insbesondere der Praxisanteil des Kurses – die Erstellung eines Medienprojektes mit den eigenen Klientinnen und Klienten – als wertvoll erlebt wird. Starre Strukturen, wie etwa Hürden in den Arbeitsstätten, stellen die Fachkräfte allerdings vor Herausforderungen. Der Kurs und eine Handreichung stehen nach der Projektlaufzeit auf www.padigi-medienkompetenz.de als Open Educational Resources (OER) zur Verfügung.
ASSESSMENT OF ATMOSPHERIC GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS FROM INTERNATIONAL AVIATION AND NAVIGATION FROM THE TERRITORY OF RUSSIA
Authors:   Yu. A. Izrael Institute of Global Climate and Ecology, Grabar V.A.
Published: February 2021

The current intensive development of shipping and aviation is accompanied by an increase in anthropogenic impact on the environment and climate. According to the International Civil Aviation Organization and the International Maritime Organization (IMO) assessments, greenhouse gas emissions from international air and sea traffic are expected to increase by 2-3 times by 2050. Carbon dioxide, methane and nitrous oxide emissions from international aviation and navigation from the territory of Russia for the period of 1990-2018 were estimated, the dynamics and the main drivers of emissions changes are analyzed, international comparisons are provided. The calculation was made in accordance with the methodology of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change based on the data from the Federal Air Transport Agency and IAA «Port News». Analysis of historical trends shows that greenhouse gas emissions dynamics during the reporting period for international sea and air shippingis almost the same. In 2018, the total emission of CO2, СH4 and N2O from international transport from the territory of Russia amounted to 47.0 million tons of CO2-equivalent, which is 2.7 times higher than in 1990. Carbon dioxide dominates in the component composition of the emissions, its share in the total emission amounted to 99.5%. Contributions of methane and nitrous oxide emissions were 0.1% and 0.4%, respectively. Shipping makes a major contribution to emissions. Russia's share of worldwide carbon dioxide emission from international water and aviation transport does not exceed 3.5%.Emissions from aviation and shipping have been largely driven by economy and international trade. Greenhouse gases emissions from international aviation and maritime transport are expected to decrease in the coming years related to IMO's banon high-sulfur fuel use and reduction of international air and sea traffic in the light of the spread of the coronavirus in 2020.
IMPACT OF LOW LATITUDES ON THE CLIMATIC CONDITIONS IN THE MAIN SIBERIAN RIVERS CATCHMENT AREA
Authors:   Arctic and Antarctic Research Institute, Alekseev G.V. , Vyazilova A.E. ,   Arctic and Antarctic Research Institute, Kharlanenkova N.E. ,   Arctic and Antarctic Research Institute
Published: February 2021

It was previously shown that atmospheric and oceanic transports of heat and moisture play an important role in the development of Arctic warming, and sea surface temperature anomalies at low latitudes have a significant effect on the formation of these transports. Atmospheric circulation, transferring heat, moisture and precipitation, also affects the climatic conditions in the catchment areas of 3 main Siberian rivers Ob, Yenisei and Lena with runoff that it about half of the average annual inflow of river waters into the Arctic Ocean. According to the reanalyses and data arrays for the period 1979-2019 air temperature and precipitation in the catchment areas of Ob, Lena and Yenisei are rising. The greatest increase in precipitation was noted in the spring months. The spring months (March and April) also have a maximum positive air temperature trend. To assess the effect of low latitudes on changes in climatic conditions in the catchment areas reanalysis data ERA5, HadISST, precipitation gridded data of the GPCC project were used. The indexes of zonal, meridional and general circulation were calculated based on the mean monthly surface air temperature at the nodes of the geographic grid in the Northern Hemisphere. To determine the connections between the indexes and climatic parameters the methods of multivariate cross-correlation analysis were used. It was defined that zonal atmospheric transports have a significant impact on climatic conditions most of all in the cold part of the year, especially in November and March. In summer amplification of zonal circulation is accompanied by a decrease in air temperature in the catchment areas, but meridional transports enhance the air temperature. The greatest influence of meridional transport was observed in spring and summer. The climatic change in low latitudes has the greatest impact in autumn on meridional transport in spring and on zonal transport in the cold part of the year, especially in March, with time lag of 2 years. The influence of low latitudes on the climatic conditions in the catchment areas is presented in the form of correlation graphs between climatic parameters and indexes of circulation on the generalizing diagram.
ASSESSMENT OF CHANGES IN CLIMATE-BASED PRODUCTIVITY OF SUMMER WHEAT IN THE MAIN REGIONS OF ITS CULTIVATION IN RUSSIA
Authors:   National Research Institute of Agricultural Meteorology, Pavlova V.N.
Published: February 2021

Agroclimatic resources in the main agricultural regions of Russia are changing at a substantial pace. The authors analyze the impact of these changes on the productivity of spring wheat with the technological trend excluded. This climate-based productivity was calculated via the Climate-Soil-Yield (CSY) simulation system with use of meteorological data from 315 observation points in the Roshydromet network for the period from 1976 to 2015. Provided evidence indicates the adequacy of this productivity modeling in the CSY system over a vast territory of the agricultural zone of Russia. Estimates of trends in agroclimatic indicators and climate-based productivity in the main grain-producing regions over the past four decades have been obtained. It is demonstrated that the average increase in air temperature during the vegetation period of spring wheat in 2006-2015 compared to 1976-1985 was from 1.6 to 2.3 °C in the North-Western regions of the European part (EP) of Russia and from 1.0 to 1.3 °C in the central and southern regions. The deficit of available water resources was especially pronounced in the main areas of spring wheat cultivation in the southern and South-Eastern regions of the EP of Russia. Analysis of trends in climate-based productivity of spring wheat by decades indicates different productivity responses to changes in agroclimatic resources in northern and southern regions of its growth. Over the period from 2006 to 2015, relative to 1961-1990, climate-based productivity decreased by 25-30 % in southern and south-eastern parts of European part of Russia and by 10 % in Eastern Siberia and the Far East. In the Urals and Western Siberia, the decrease of climate-based productivity is minor and ranges from 3 to 5 %. In Russia as a whole, trends towards warming caused a drop in the climate-based productivity of spring wheat by approximately 12 % from 1976 to 2015, i. e. the rate of its decline amounted to ~3 % per decade.
Gold Nanorods Capped with Different Ammonium Bromide Salts on the Catalytic Chemical Reduction of p-Nitrophenol
Authors: de Oliveira Francyelle , Nascimento Lucas , Calado Claudia , Meneghetti Simoni , da Silva Monique , Meneghetti Mario
Published: February 2021

It is known that the reactivity of the nanocatalytic systems is related to the particle size and shape and also to the features of the capping agents on the nanostructures. In this study, gold nanorods (AuNRs) were synthesized by the seed-mediated method using different tetraalkylammonium bromide salts as capping agents, that are, cetyltrimethylammonium (CTABr), N,N-dimethyl-N‑cetyl-N-(2-hydroxyethyl)ammonium (HEA16Br), and N,N-dimethyl-N-cetyl- N-(2-hydroxypropyl)ammonium (HPA16Br), and used as catalyst for the chemical reduction of p-nitrophenol (PNP) in the presence of NaBH4. The catalytic systems were characterized by ultraviolet-visible (UV-Vis) absorption spectroscopy and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The effect of the ammonium bromide-based capping agent on the catalytic activity of AuNRs was evaluated by performing the chemical reduction of p-nitrophenol in the presence of excess NaBH4 in aqueous medium. Under the reaction conditions employed, the catalytic systems displayed detectable subtle differences in terms of induction times and apparent activation energy (Ea) values. These results show that slight changes carried out in the chemical structure of the capping agent are able to imprint even slightly modification of the kinetic parameter of the catalytic reaction.
Water quality assessment of Middle Route of South-North Water Diversion Project based on modified Nemerow index method
Authors: Yang Yilin , Zhang Dawei , Quan Jin , Wang Pengwen , Xu Yi
Published: February 2021

It is of great significance to find a scientific way to assess the water quality of the Middle Route of the South-North Water Diversion Project. In this paper, the spatio-temporal changes of the 26 water quality indicators in eight key monitoring stations along the Middle Route since the project was put into use were analyzed, and the modified Nemerow index method was employed to assess the water quality of the route in its early stage of operation. The results show that the water quality remained good in the period of study. Important water quality indicators were identified, including temperature, permanganate index, dissolved oxygen, total phosphorus, total nitrogen, mercury content, and density of planktonic algae. It is advised that potential ecological risks related to algae and shellfish reproduction in the open canal deserve special attention.
CO2 introduced the coagulation-flocculation of oil acidized wastewater: pollutant removal and cost analysis
Authors: Qin Jinyi , Gong Yifan , Qin Chuan , Meng Hailong , He Yiwen , Qin Qingyang , Gao Junfa
Published: February 2021

It is difficult to adjust the pH of oil acidized wastewater rich in Ca2+, thus hindering the polyacrylamide (PAM) flocculation. This study aims at accelerating the flocculation process by introducing CO2 into the water to induce the formation of CaCO3 nuclei. The order in which CO2 and NaOH were added affected the floc structures. Compared with CO2-NaOH-PAM, the flocs of NaOH-CO2-PAM were more compact and more CaCO3 crystals were formed. The aqueous Ca2+ involved in the reaction reached 20%, and CO2 utilization was enhanced. The settling time was shortened by half (from 20 to 3 min), and NaOH consumption was reduced by one-tenth (from 0.03 to 0.003 mol), hence significantly reducing the costs. Due to the higher settling rate and shorter contact time, the NaOH-CO2-PAM flocs adsorbed less so that the residual oil was 124 mg·L−1, while in the case of CO2-NaOH-PAM it was 88 mg·L−1. As a promising coagulation aid, CO2 can also be used to mineralize pollutants in wastewater.
Między dworem królewskim a senatem. Nominacje osób z kręgów dworskich na godności senackie za panowania króla Jana Olbrachta
Authors: Nalewajek Agnieszka
Published: February 2021

Po śmierci króla Kazimierza Jagiellończyka (zm. 1492), za panowania którego doszło do ukształtowania dwuizbowego sejmu walnego koronnego składającego się z senatu i izby poselskiej, obsada godności senackich stanowiła kluczowe kryterium przy nominacjach na godności biskupie oraz najwyższe urzędy stosowane przez jego następcę, Jana Olbrachta (1492-1501). Wykorzystywał on politykę personalną do wywierania wpływu na kształt senatu poprzez obsadzenie izby wyższej najbliższymi współpracownikami królewskimi. Godności senackie otrzymywali głównie członkowie dworu związani z kancelarią koronną, urzędnicy i sekretarze królewscy. Dwór monarszy był szkołą kształtującą przyszłych senatorów Rzeczypospolitej.
Senatorowie litewscy na sejmach z lat 1664-1667
Authors: Rachuba Andrzej
Published: February 2021

Celem jest pokazanie, czy i na ile senatorowie litewscy wykazywali w okresie wydarzeń tzw. rokoszu Lubomirskiego aktywność na sejmach i czy ów konflikt był dla nich sprawą najistotniejszą. Jak wyglądała frekwencja senatorów litewskich w stosunku do koronnych i jaki był wśród nich układ sił między stronnikami dworu i opozycją? Czy miało to wreszcie przełożenie na ich zachowanie i jakie? W efekcie doszedłem do wniosku, że słabo angażowali się oni w wydarzenia polityczne Rzeczypospolitej, a tym samym nie stanowili dla dworu problemu, gdyż jeśli nawet nie popierali jego polityki, starali się nie brać udziału w ostrych nań atakach.
Current Phthalocyanines Delivery Systems in Photodynamic Therapy: An Updated Review
Authors: Miretti Mariana , Prucca César German , Tempesti Tomas Cristian , Baumgartner Maria Teresa
Published: February 2021

Photodynamic therapy has emerged as an effective therapeutic alternative to
treat oncological, cardiovascular, dermatological, infectious, and ophthalmic diseases.
Photodynamic therapy combines the action of a photosensitizer with light in the presence
of oxygen to generate reactive oxygen species, capable of reacting with cellular components,
resulting in injury and, consequently, inducing cellular death. Phthalocyanines are
considered good photosensitizers, although most of them are lipophilic, difficulting their
administration for clinical use. A strategy to overcome the lack of solubility of phthalocyanines
in aqueous media is to incorporate them into different delivery systems. The present
review aimed to summarize the current status of the main drug delivery systems
used for Zn and Al phthalocyanines and their effect in photodynamic therapy, reported in
the last five years. Liposomes, polymeric micelles, polymeric nanoparticles, and goldnanoparticles
constituted some of the most used carriers and were discussed in this review.
The latest studies reported strongly suggest that the application of nanotechnologies
as delivery systems allows an increase in photodynamic therapy efficacy and reduces
side-effects associated with the phthalocyanine administration, which represents a
hope for cancer treatments.
A Review of Water-Resistant Cellulose-Based Materials in Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Application
Authors: He Bei , Liu Xinxin , Qi Shi , Zheng Run , Chang Minmin , Lin Qixuan , Ren Junli
Published: February 2021

Background:

Cellulose, having huge reserves of natural polymers, has been
widely applied in pharmaceutical and biomedicine fields due to its good biocompatibility,
biodegradability, non-toxicity and excellent mechanical properties. At present, water-
resistant metal-based and petroleum-based materials applied in the medical field have
obvious problems of poor biocompatibility and high cost. Therefore, water-resistant cellulose-
based materials with good biocompatibility and low price have become an attractive
alternative. This review aims to summarize the preparation of water-resistant cellulose-
based materials and their potential application in pharmaceutical and biomedical in
recent years.

Methods:

Common hydrophobic treatments of cellulose fibers or paper were
overviewed. The preparation, properties and applications of water-resistant cellulose-
based materials in the pharmaceutical and biomedical fields were summarized.

Results:

Common hydrophobic treatments of cellulose fibers or paper were divided into
chemical modification (graft polymerization, crosslinking, solution casting or dip-coating),
physico-chemical surface modifications (plasma treatments, surface patterning, electrostatic
spraying and electrowetting) and physical processing (electrostatic spinning,
SAS process and 3D EHD printing). These hydrophobically processed cellulose fibers or
paper could be prepared into various water-resistant cellulose-based materials and applied
in pharmaceutical excipients, drug-loaded amphiphilic micelles, drug-loaded composite
fibers, hydrophobic biocomposite film/coatings and paper-based detectors. They
presented excellent water resistance and biocompatibility, low cytotoxicity and high drug
loading ability, and stable drug release rate, etc., which could be used for water-insoluble
drugs carriers, wound dressings, and medical testing equipment.

Conclusion:

Currently, water-resistant cellulose-based materials were mainly applied in water-insoluble drugs delivery carriers, wound dressing and medical diagnosis and presented great application prospects. However, the contradiction between hydrophobicity and mechanical properties of these reported water-resistant cellulose-based materials limited their wider application in biomedicine such as tissue engineering. In the future, attention will be focused on the higher hydrophobicity of water-resistant cellulose-based materials with excellent mechanical properties. In addition, clinical medical research of water-resistant cellulose-based materials should be strengthened.
Novel Nitrogen Containing Steroid Derivatives for Prostate Cancer Treatment
Authors: Latysheva Alexandra S. , Zolottsev Vladimir A. , Pokrovsky Vadim S. , Khan Irina I. , Misharin Alexander Yu.
Published: February 2021

This mini-review focuses on the investigation of novel nitrogen-containing
steroid derivatives that are potentially applicable for prostate cancer treatment. It covers
the literature of the last decade, highlighting the structure of new steroid compounds that
exhibit significant activity in prostate cancer cells and possess pharmacological potency.
New derivatives of known anti-prostate cancer agents: abiraterone and galeterone, new
derivatives of androstane and pregnane modified with nitrogen-containing heterocycles,
and some related steroid-derived compounds are discussed in the review.
Benzimidazole: A Multifacted Nucelus for Anticancer Agents
Authors: Bansal Yogita , Minhas Richa , Singhal Ankit , Arora Radhey Krishan , Bansal Gulshan
Published: February 2021

Cancer is characterized by an uncontrolled proliferation of cells, dedifferentiation,
invasiveness and metastasis. Endothelial growth factor (eGF), insulin-like growth factor
(IGF), platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF), Fibroblast growth factor (FGF), Vascular endothelial
growth factor (VEGF), checkpoint kinase 1 & 2 ( Chk1 & Chk2), aurora kinases,
topoisomerases, histone deacetylators (HDAC), poly(ADP-Ribose)polymerase (PARP), farnesyl
transferases, RAS-MAPK pathway and PI3K-Akt-mTOR pathway, are some of the
prominent mediators implicated in the proliferation of tumor cells. Huge artillery of natural
and synthetic compounds as anticancer, which act by inhibiting one or more of the enzymes
and/or pathways responsible for the progression of tumor cells, is reported in the literature.
The major limitations of anticancer agents used in clinics as well as of those under development
in literature are normal cell toxicity and other side effects due to lack of specificity.
Hence, medicinal chemists across the globe have been working for decades to develop potent and safe anticancer
agents from natural sources as well as from different classes of heterocycles. Benzimidazole is one of the most important
and explored heteronucelus because of their versatility in biological actions as well as synthetic applications
in medicinal chemistry. The structural similarity of amino derivatives of benzimidazole with purines makes it a fascinating
nucleus for the development of anticancer, antimicrobial and anti-HIV agents. This review article is an attempt
to critically analyze various reports on benzimidazole derivatives acting on different targets to act as anticancer so as
to understand the structural requirements around benzimidazole nucleus for each target and enable medicinal chemists
to promote rational development of antitumor agents.
Indole: A Privileged Heterocyclic Moiety in the Management of Cancer
Authors: Mir Reyaz Hassan , Mohi-ud-din Roohi , Wani Taha Umair , Dar Mohammad Ovais , Shah Abdul Jaleel , Lone Bashir , Pooja Chawla , Masoodi Mubashir Hussain
Published: February 2021

Heterocyclic are a class of compounds that are intricately entwined into life processes.
Almost more than 90% of marketed drugs carry heterocycles. Synthetic chemistry, in
turn, allocates a cornucopia of heterocycles. Among the heterocycles, indole, a bicyclic structure
consisting of a six-membered benzene ring fused to a five-membered pyrrole ring with
numerous pharmacophores that generate a library of various lead molecules. Due to its profound
pharmacological profile, indole got wider attention around the globe to explore it fully
in the interest of mankind. The current review covers recent advancements on indole in the
design of various anti-cancer agents acting by targeting various enzymes or receptors, including
(HDACs), sirtuins, PIM kinases, DNA topoisomerases, and σ receptors.
Asymmetric Organocatalytic Tandem/Domino Reactions to Access Bioactive Products
Authors: Pellissier Hélène
Published: February 2021

Tandem and domino reactions constitute economic methodologies to prepare complex
molecules starting from simple materials. Especially, combining these powerful procedures
to asymmetric catalysis allows direct access to many elaborated chiral products, including
important key intermediates in total syntheses of important biologically active compounds.
A range of various types of chiral organocatalysts have already been successfully
applied to such syntheses. This review presents major developments in the total synthesis of
bioactive products based on the use of enantioselective organocatalytic domino/tandem reactions
as key steps. It is divided into three parts, dealing successively with syntheses based on
organocatalytic asymmetric Michael-initiated domino reactions as key steps; aldol-initiated
domino/tandem reactions and other domino reactions.
LncRNA-mRNA Expression Profiles and Functional Networks Associated with Cognitive Impairment in Folate-deficient Mice
Authors: Xu Guohai , Feng Xiaojin , Zhan Fenfang , Hu Jialing , Hua Fuzhou
Published: February 2021

Background:

Cognitive impairment is a common neurocognitive disorder that affects millions of worldwide people’s health,related tofolate deficiency.

Objective:

The present study aimed to investigate the lncRNA-mRNA functional networks associated with cognitive impairment in folate-deficient mice and elucidate their possible molecular mechanisms.

Methods:

We downloaded the gene expression profile (GSE148126) of lncRNAs and mRNAs from NCBI Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. Four groups of mouse hippocampi were analyzed, including 4 months (4mo) and 18 months (18mo) of folic acid (FA) deficiency/supplementation. The differentially expressed lncRNAs (DElncRNAs) and mRNAs (DEmRNAs) were identified using gplots and heatmap packages. The functions of the DEmRNAs were evaluated using Gene Ontology (GO) and the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analyses. The hub genes wereidentified by CytoHubba plugins of Cytoscape, and protein-protein interaction (PPI) network of deregulated mRNAs was performed using STRING database. Finally, lncRNA-mRNA co-expression and competitive endogenous RNA (ceRNA) network analyses were constructed.

Results:

In total, we screened 67 lncRNAs with 211 mRNAs, and 89 lncRNAs with 229 mRNAs were differentially expressed in 4mo_FAand 18mo_FA deficient mice, respectively. GO analyses indicated that DEmRNAs were highly related to terms involved in binding and biological regulation. KEGG pathway analyses demonstrated that these genes were significantly enriched for Renin secretion, Pancreatic secretion and AMPK signaling pathways in 18mo_FA deficiency group. Subsequently, the top 5 hub genes werescreened from the PPI network, which may be key genes with the progression of folate deficiency. Upon the lncRNA-mRNA co-expression network analysis, we identified the top 10 lncRNAs having the maximum number of connections with related mRNAs. Finally, a ceRNA network was constructed for DE lncRNAs and DEmRNAs, and several pivotal miRNAs were predicted.

Conclusions:

This study identified the lncRNA-mRNA expression profiles and functional networks associated with cognitive impairment in folate-deficient mice, which provided support for the possible mechanisms and therapy for this disease.
Synthesis of Silica Based Nanoparticles Against the Proliferation of Human Prostate Cancer
Authors: Durmus Irem M. , Deveci Ilyas , Karakurt Serdar
Published: February 2021

Background:

Prostate cancer(PCa) has the second-highest morbidity and mortality rates in men. Possessing facile surface chemistry and unique optical properties make silica nanoparticles(SiO2-NPs) promising cancer therapy materials.

Objective:

This study aimed to investigate the effects of SiO2-NPs and their derivatives, including SiNP-NH2, SiNP-Cl, and SiNP-SH against PCa and clarify their molecular mechanism on cell death, gene, and protein expressions.

Methods:

Following the synthesis and derivation of SiO2-NPs, their characterization was carried out using TEM, DLS, BET, and FT-IR. Cytotoxic properties of the compounds were investigated against different human cancerous cells, including HUH-7, A549, DLD-1, HeLa, NCI-H295R, and PC-3, as well as human healthy epithelium cell line PNT1A.

Results:

SiNP-NH2, SiNP-Cl, and SiNP-SH dose-dependently inhibited the proliferation of PC-3 cells with an
IC50 value as 55.46 μg/mL, 55.09 μg/mL and 72.89 μg/mL, respectively. SiNP-SH significantly(p<0.0001) inhibited
metastasis and invasion of PC-3 cells(20.4% and 46.7%, respectively), and significantly(p<0.0001) increased
early apoptosis(32.3%) when compared with non-treated cells. Protein and mRNA expressions of
BcL-2, Bax, caspase-3, caspase-9, caspase-12, p53, Smad-4, Kras, and Nf-ĸB were also altered following the
treatment of SiO2-NPs and its derivatives.

Conclusion:

Our results demonstrated that –SH functioned SiO2-NPs can prevent the proliferation of human PCa by increasing apoptosis by upregulating gene and protein expression of p53(TP53) as well as caspase-3, caspase-9, and caspase-12 in the apoptotic pathway. Besides, the increased level of Smad-4 has also implicated the decreased cell proliferation. Hence, low sized SiNP-SH nanoparticles might be a suitable candidate for the treatment of human PCa.
The Potential for Phospholipids in the Treatment of Airway Inflammation: An Unexplored Solution
Authors: Komalla Varsha , Mehta Meenu , Achi Fatima , Dua Kamal , Haghi Mehra
Published: February 2021

:

Asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and cystic fibrosis (CF) are major inflammatory respiratory diseases. Current mainstay therapy for asthma, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease are corticosteroids, which have well-established side effect profiles. Phospholipids (PLs) are ubiquitous, diverse compounds with varying functions such as their structural role in the cell membrane, energy storage, and cell signaling. Recent advances in understanding PLs role as inflammatory mediators in the body as well as their widespread long-standing use as carrier molecules in drug delivery demonstrate the potential application of PLs in modulating inflammatory conditions.

:

This review briefly explains the main mechanisms of inflammation in chronic respiratory diseases, current anti-inflammatory treatments and areas of unmet need. The structural features, roles of endogenous and exogenous phospholipids, including their use as pharmaceutical excipients, are reviewed. Current research on the immunomodulatory properties of PLs and their potential application in inflammatory diseases is the major section of this review.

:

Considering the roles of PLs as inflammatory mediators and their safety profile established in pharmaceutical formulations, these small molecules demonstrate great potential as candidates in respiratory inflammation. Future studies need to focus on the immunomodulatory properties and the underlying mechanisms of PLs in respiratory inflammatory diseases.
development strategy of civil association cooperative
Authors: Rahmiyati Nekky , Andayani Sri , Indartuti Endang
Published: February 2021

Cooperatives' existence and role in supporting national economic activities are essential and strategic. Strengthening the cooperative economy and small business economy is a priority. Kediri City received the cooperative award from the Ministry of Cooperatives and MSME in 2017. The award was given because it successfully guided and developed Cooperatives. Until now Kediri City has a cooperative citizen association (CA) that has been formed. One hundred fifty cooperatives from a total of 352 CA have been created in the city.  Data analysis using SWOT analysis is a strategic planning method used to evaluate strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats in a project or business speculation. These four factors make up the SWOT acronym (strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats). They are used to determine the strategy for developing an CA Cooperative in Kediri. Based on the calculation from the results of the SWOT analysis, the total score of the internal strategic factor analysis (IFAS) obtained a score of 2.54, and this shows thatThe CA Cooperative has an excellent strength to face the opportunities and threats that occur.
Investigating the molecular mechanisms and mechanical properties of epithelial keratin and trichocyte keratin using multiscale modelling
Authors: Chou Chia-Ching
Published: February 2021

Establishing a deeper understanding of the molecular mechanisms and mechanical properties of materials can help improve engineering processes and also contribute to establishing a better understanding of diseases and how they can be treated. A better understanding of the exact structures
and mechanisms of a material and how they affect a material's properties, can lead to the development of new, novel materials that can respond to societal needs. Assistant Professor Chia-Ching Chou, Institute of Applied Mechanics, National Taiwan University, Taiwan, is working to better understand
the intricacies of materials by taking inspiration from nature, with a particular focus on two types of keratin. Chou and her team are using molecular modelling to investigate the molecular mechanisms and mechanical properties of epithelial keratin and trichocyte keratin. Trichocyte keratin,
otherwise known as hair keratin, is durable and has had a number of applications in engineering for many years, while epithelial keratin, which is also known as skin keratin, cannot sustain the same load as hair keratin, but has a greater ability to be stretched, and is therefore of interest
to the team. Chou and the team are investigating how the molecular compositions of trichocyte keratin and epithelial keratin affect the mechanical properties. To do this, the researchers are performing molecular dynamics simulation using atomistic and multiscale computational modelling, which
allows them to explore the composition, structure and behaviour of keratin at the molecular level. Ultimately, the researchers want to determine how sequence and chemical bonding affect the microscopic, mesoscopic and macroscopic level properties of materials.
An Online Platform to Provide Work and Study Support for Young People With Mental Health Challenges: Observational and Survey Study
Authors: Rickwood Debra , Kennedy Vanessa , Miyazaki Koki , Telford Nic , Carbone Stephen , Hewitt Ella , Watts Carolyn
Published: February 2021

Background

Young people, aged 15-25 years, are at a critical stage of life when they need to navigate vocational pathways and achieve work and study outcomes. Those with mental health problems are particularly at risk of disengagement with work and study and need effective support. The headspace Work and Study (hWS) service is an innovative online platform implemented in Australia to support young people aged 15-25 years with mental health problems to achieve work and study goals.

Objective

This study aims to determine whether the hWS service has been implemented as planned, provides appropriate support for young people, and achieves its main goals.

Methods

Data were collected via 2 methodologies: (1) the hWS Minimum Data Set, which includes data on all clients in the service (n=1139), services delivered, and service impact; and (2) a survey of hWS clients who volunteered to participate in an evaluation of the hWS service (n=137).

Results

The service was accessed by its defined target group, young people aged 15-25 years with mental health and work and study difficulties. Young people found the online platform to be acceptable, and the assistance provided and clinical integration useful; many young people achieved positive work and study outcomes, particularly those who engaged more times with the service. More assistance was sought for work than study goals, suggesting that the transition to work may be particularly challenging for young people. One-third (298/881, 33.8%) of the sample for the service impact analyses achieved at least 1 primary work or study outcome, and this increased to 44.5% (225/506) for those who engaged with 5 or more sessions, demonstrating that greater engagement with the service produced better outcomes.

Conclusions

Critical work and study support can be effectively delivered via an online modality to young people with common mental health problems. Digital services are scaleable to reach many young people and are of particular value for those with difficulty accessing in-person services.
Public Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices Related to COVID-19 in Iran: Questionnaire Study (Preprint)
Authors: Abbasi-Kangevari Mohsen , Kolahi Ali-Asghar , Ghamari Seyyed-Hadi , Hassanian-Moghaddam Hossein
Published: February 2021

BACKGROUND

The COVID-19 pandemic is a rapidly growing outbreak, the future course of which is strongly determined by people’s adherence to social distancing measures.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to determine the knowledge level, attitudes, and practices of the Iranian population in the context of COVID-19.

METHODS

A nationwide study was conducted from March 24 to April 3, 2020, whereby data were collected via an online self-administered questionnaire.

RESULTS

Responses from 12,332 participants were analyzed. Participants’ mean knowledge score was 23.2 (SD 4.3) out of 30. Most participants recognized the cause of COVID-19, its routes of transmission, its symptoms and signs, predisposing factors, and prevention measures. Social media was the leading source of information. Participants recognized the dangers of the situation and felt responsible for following social distancing protocols, as well as isolating themselves upon symptom presentation. Participants’ mean practice score was 20.7 (SD 2.2) out of 24. Nearly none of the respondents went on a trip, and 92% (n=11,342) washed their hands before touching their faces.

CONCLUSIONS

Knowledge of COVID-19 among people in Iran was nearly sufficient, their attitudes were mainly positive, and their practices were satisfactory. There is still room for improvement in correcting misinformation and protecting people from deception. Iranians appear to support government actions like social distancing and care for their and others’ safety.

CLINICALTRIAL
An Online Platform to Provide Work and Study Support for Young People With Mental Health Challenges: Observational and Survey Study (Preprint)
Authors: Rickwood Debra , Kennedy Vanessa , Miyazaki Koki , Telford Nic , Carbone Stephen , Hewitt Ella , Watts Carolyn
Published: February 2021

BACKGROUND

Young people, aged 15-25 years, are at a critical stage of life when they need to navigate vocational pathways and achieve work and study outcomes. Those with mental health problems are particularly at risk of disengagement with work and study and need effective support. The headspace Work and Study (hWS) service is an innovative online platform implemented in Australia to support young people aged 15-25 years with mental health problems to achieve work and study goals.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to determine whether the hWS service has been implemented as planned, provides appropriate support for young people, and achieves its main goals.

METHODS

Data were collected via 2 methodologies: (1) the hWS Minimum Data Set, which includes data on all clients in the service (n=1139), services delivered, and service impact; and (2) a survey of hWS clients who volunteered to participate in an evaluation of the hWS service (n=137).

RESULTS

The service was accessed by its defined target group, young people aged 15-25 years with mental health and work and study difficulties. Young people found the online platform to be acceptable, and the assistance provided and clinical integration useful; many young people achieved positive work and study outcomes, particularly those who engaged more times with the service. More assistance was sought for work than study goals, suggesting that the transition to work may be particularly challenging for young people. One-third (298/881, 33.8%) of the sample for the service impact analyses achieved at least 1 primary work or study outcome, and this increased to 44.5% (225/506) for those who engaged with 5 or more sessions, demonstrating that greater engagement with the service produced better outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS

Critical work and study support can be effectively delivered via an online modality to young people with common mental health problems. Digital services are scaleable to reach many young people and are of particular value for those with difficulty accessing in-person services.
Adolescent Problem Gaming and Loot Box Purchasing in Video Games: Cross-sectional Observational Study Using Population-Based Cohort Data (Preprint)
Authors: Ide Soichiro , Nakanishi Miharu , Yamasaki Syudo , Ikeda Kazutaka , Ando Shuntaro , Hiraiwa-Hasegawa Mariko , Kasai Kiyoto , Nishida Atsushi
Published: February 2021

BACKGROUND

Video game loot boxes, which can typically be purchased by players or are given as reward, contain random virtual items, or loot, ranging from simple customization options for a player's avatar or character, to game-changing equipment such as weapons and armor. Loot boxes have drawn concern, as purchasing loot boxes might lead to the development of problematic gambling for adolescents. Although parental problem gambling is associated with adolescent problem gambling, no studies have evaluated the prevalence of loot box purchases in adolescents’ parents.

OBJECTIVE

This study investigated the association between loot box purchasing among adolescents and parents, and problem online gaming in population-based samples.

METHODS

In total, 1615 adolescent (aged 14 years) gamers from Japan responded to a questionnaire regarding their loot box purchasing and problem online gaming behaviors. Problem online gaming was defined as four or more of the nine addictive behaviors from the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. The adolescents’ primary caregivers were asked about their loot box purchasing.

RESULTS

Of the 1615 participants, 57 (3.5%) reported loot box purchasing. This prevalence did not differ according to primary caregivers’ loot box purchasing, but adolescents who purchased loot boxes were significantly more likely to exhibit problem online gaming (odds ratio 3.75, 95% CI 2.17-6.48).

CONCLUSIONS

Adolescent loot box purchasing is linked to problem online gaming, but not with parents’ loot box purchasing. Measures to reduce these behaviors should target reducing addictive symptoms in young video gamers.