bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Educating Nursing Students for Cultural Competence in Emergencies A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Kula Yosef , Cohen Odeya , Clempert Neta , Grinstein-Cohen Orli , Slobodin Ortal
Published: May 2021

Background: Racial and ethnic minorities suffer significantly more than others in the wake of disasters. Despite the growing recognition of the importance of culturally competent health services, systematic cultural competence training in the medical education system is still scarce, especially in the field of emergency. The current study aimed to examine the effectiveness of an online culturally informed intervention for increasing cultural competence in emergencies among nursing students. Methods: A randomized controlled trial was used to test the intervention effectiveness in increasing nursing students' cultural competence in four domains: attitudes, knowledge, skills, and encounters. The study included 72 undergraduate nursing students recruited from two academic institutes. Participants were randomized (1:1 ratio) to an intervention (n=34) and control group (n=38). The study adheres to the Consolidated Standards of Reporting Trials (CONSORT). Results: Multivariate analysis of variance with repeated measures, followed by post hoc analyses with Bonferroni correction for multiple comparisons, revealed that the intervention was effective in increasing the participants' culturally competent knowledge. The effect of the intervention on the skills domain approached significance. No group differences were identified in the attitudes and the encounters domains. Conclusions: The current study supported the effectiveness of an online culturally informed intervention in increasing cultural competence in emergencies, especially in the cognitive domain (knowledge). Our results encourage the development of future intervention programs that are based on a deep understanding of local values, needs, and preferences.
The Wedge Between Need and Access to Healthcare: Does Health Insurance Improve Utilization for People With Non- Communicable Diseases?
Authors: Ngwira Agness , Bulawayo Maio , Hangoma Peter
Published: May 2021

BackgroundWith progress towards universal health coverage (UHC) the disease burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in LMICs is increasing while inequalities in healthcare access exist. We aimed to investigate whether health insurance enables people with NCDs to utilize health services more than their counterparts without insurance.MethodsUsing a quantitative research method and data from the Zambia Household Health Expenditure Utilization Survey (ZHHEUS, 2013) conducted in 2013, we focussed on the people who recalled visiting a health facility a month prior to the survey, 8,146 of whom said yes. Approximately 2247 had an NCD while 229 were covered by health insurance. Only women age 15-49 and men age 15-59 who were interviewed for information regarding themselves and other members of the household. The survey included questions on demographics, health status (self-rated health); illness experiences, healthcare utilization (visits, admission, type of providers sought, health expenditure); and insurance cover. Specifically, individuals were asked if they had visited a health facility in the 4 weeks preceding the survey. ResultsWe find that NCDs are associated with an increase in healthcare use (5.4 percentage points (pp); 95% CI -0.28 to 0.09; p=<0.001). Utilization increases further for those with NCDs by having health insurance (6.4pp; 95% CI -0.18 to 0.05; p=0.285) though the association was not statistically significant. Having health insurance itself, regardless of NCD status, is associated with a higher utilization (6.4pp; 95% CI -0.13 to 0.0005; p=0.048). ConclusionsOur results suggest that health insurance may play an important role in improving access among people with chronic conditions, and since they mainly affect poorer households, health insurance may have a strong equity result in a low- and middle-income country context.
Investigating the Association of IL-1beta IL-8 & IL 11 with Commonly used Cardiovascular Biomarkers (CK-MB & Troponin) in Patients with Myocardial Infarction (MI)
Authors: Shahbazi Hojat , Maleknia Mahsa , Noroozi Saam
Published: May 2021

Background: Myocardial infarction is a major cause of death and disability worldwide. The term myocardial infarction should be used when there is an evidence of myocardial necrosis in a clinical setting consistent with myocardial ischemia. Cardiac troponins (cTn) have emerged as the preferred diagnostic biomarkers. If troponin assays are not available, the best alternative is creatine kinase (CK-MB). Numerous studies have reported the ability of various inflammatory biomarkers to predict future cardiovascular events. Therefore, we have decided to investigate inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, IL-8 & IL-11) to compare with routine biomarkers.Methods: 40 patients who were diagnosed with myocardial Infarction (at the first 24 hours), have voluntarily participated in this research project. 5 cc of whole blood was collected, both myocardial routine biomarkers (Tropinin & CK-MB), serum lipid profiles and blood sugar were evaluated after diagnosis of MI. Meanwhile, we have assessed the serum levels of three Interleukins (IL-1β, IL-8 & IL-11) by ELISA method.Results: First we have assessed blood sugar and all lipid profiles. B.S and HDL were higher in males, while TG, Cholesterol and LDL were higher in females. Our data demonstrated that Troponin continued to increase significantly throughout the 72 hours, while CK-MB fell dramatically over the period in question. Our result also revealed the rise in IL-1β serum levels (after 72 hours of MI diagnosis). However, this was not a significant increment. On the other hand, both IL-8 and IL-11 have followed the same decreasing pattern till the end of experiment. It is interesting to note that IL-8 showed a dramatic fall during the experimental period.Conclusion: We concluded that inflammatory cytokines would be a promising diagnostic biomarkers for MI cases. A noticeable changes of IL-8 plasma levels made it a decent candidate for MI diagnosis and follow-up.
Consumer Acceptance of Brown and White Rice Varieties
Authors: Gondal Tanweer Aslam , Keast Russell SJ , Shellie Robert A , Jadhav Snehal R , Gamlath Shirani , Mohebbi Mohammadreza , Liem Djin Gie
Published: May 2021

Rice is consumed as a staple food by more than half of the world’s population. Due to a higher fibre and micronutrient content, brown rice is more nutritious than white rice, but the consumption of brown rice is significantly lower than that of white rice, primarily due to sensory attributes. Therefore, the present research aimed to identify the sensory attributes which drive liking of Australian-grown brown and white rice varieties. Participants (n = 139) tasted and scored (9-point hedonic scale) their liking (i.e., overall liking, aroma, colour and texture) of brown and white rice types of Jasmine (Kyeema), Low GI (Doongara) and Medium grain rice (Amaroo). In addition, participants scored, aroma, colour, hardness, fluffiness, stickiness and chewiness, on Just About Right Scales. A within-subjects crossover design with randomised order (William’s Latin Square design) was used with six repeated samples for liking and Just About Right scales. Penalty analyses were applied to determine the relative influence of perception of sensory attributes on consumer liking of the rice varieties. Across all varieties, white rice was liked more than brown rice due to texture and colour, and Jasmine rice was preferred over Low GI and Medium Grain. Rice texture (hardness and chewiness) was the most important sensory attribute among all rice varieties and aroma was important for driving of liking between white rice varieties.
WITHDRAWN: Pani:Cuo Nanocomposite as Electrolyte Material for Electrochemical Supercapacitor Application
Authors: S Ashokan , V Ponnuswamy , P Jayamurugan
Published: May 2021

PANI:CuO nanocomposite have been prepared by systematically adding different amounts of ammonium per sulfate as an oxidizing agent. Surface morphology shows the uniform distribution of CuO nanopowders in PANI matrix. TEM study gives the grain size of the as prepare PANI:CuO nanocomposite. FT-IR and UV-Vis studies confirm PANI is present and show the incorporation of CuO in polymer matrix. The data obtained by FT-IR measurements show the possible incorporation of CuO in PANI, rate of most interaction and the conductivity decrease due to the increase of APS content in the formed hybrid composites. A capacitance of polymeric materials is remarkably enhanced due to the synergistic effect between CuO and PANI. Moreover, the composite demonstrates good capacitive and charge/discharge properties.
Development of a Highly Efficient Technology for Accelerated Bread Production
Authors: Tursunbayeva Sholpan Arystanbekovna , Iztayev Auyelbek Iztayevich , Mynbayeva Aizhan Berdaliyevna , Alimardanova Mariam Kalabaevna , Iztayev Baurzhan Auyelbekovich , Yakiyayeva Madina Asatullaevna
Published: May 2021

The bakery market is one of the most capacious in Kazakhstan. Manufacturers of bread products are in dire need of the introduction of intensive technologies for improving product quality and safety. This article presents the results of research to develop technology for accelerated production of bread with ion-ozone cavitation treatment. The influence of various modes of exposure to ion-ozone cavitation has been investigated. After baking, bread samples were examined for organoleptic, physicochemical, rheological and microbiological indicators. The optimal method is treatment with ion-ozone at a concentration of 0.0025 units/mg, at a pressure of 1.0 atm for 1 min. As a result, it was proved that this mode accelerates the process of obtaining dough and shortens the fermentation time, and baking bread increases the qualitative and quantitative indicators according to the control method. The results showed that the ion-ozone technology reduces the length of the process of making dough and bread by three times compared to traditional technologies. The developed products with existing analogues in the Kazakhstan market will differ due to their high taste and consumer properties, product safety, long shelf life and low cost.
Association Between Phosphate and Long-term Outcome in CAD Patients Underwent Coronary Intervention
Authors: Tsai Tsung-Ying , Hsu Pai-Feng , Wu Cheng-Hsueh , Yang Ya-Ling , Chen Su-Chan , Huang Shao-Sung , Chan Wan Leong , Lin Shing-Jong , Chen Jaw-Wen , Pan Ju-Pin , Charng Min-Ji , Chen Ying-Hwa , Wu Tao-Cheng , Lu Tse-Min , Huang Po-Hsun , Cheng Hao-Min , Huang Chin-Chou , Sung Shih-Hsien , Lin Yenn-Jiang , Leu Hsin-Bang
Published: May 2021

IntroductionPhosphate has been linked to higher cardiovascular (CV) risk. However, whether phosphate is associated with poor outcomes for patients with coronary artery disease (CAD) after percutaneous coronary interventions (PCIs) remained undetermined. Methods 2,894 CAD patients (2,220 male, aged 71.6 ± 12.2), who received PCI at TVGH from 2006 to 2015, with phosphate measurement, were enrolled. The primary outcome was the composite of major adverse CV events [MACE, comprising of CV death, nonfatal MI, and nonfatal stroke] and heart failure hospitalization(HHF). The key secondary outcome was MACE. ResultsThere was a J-curve association between phosphate and CV events after adjusted for comorbidities and renal function. Phosphate around 3.2 ± 0.1mg/dL was associated with the lowest CV risk. In Cox analysis, each 1 mg/dL increases in phosphate was associated with a higher risk of MACE+HHF (HR:1.12, 95% CI:1.05-1.21): CV death (HR: 1.37,95% CI: 1.22-1.55) and HHF (HR: 1.12, 95% CI: 1.02-1.23). Subgroup analyses showed more prominent association between phosphate and MACE+HHF in male, age > 65, bare-metal stents (BMSs), LVEF< 50%, eGFR <60, LDL >70 mg/dL, and emergent PCI.ConclusionPhosphate has a J-curve association with the risk of CV events in CAD patients undergoing PCI that was independent of comorbidities and renal function.
Preparation of Single-phase High Entropy Carbides by a Modified Citric Acid Complexing Method
Authors: Liu Hu-Lin , DANG Feng-Zhen , NI De-Wei , LIU Chang-Qing , XUE Yun-Long , WU Yuan-Ting
Published: May 2021

We developed a new method to synthesize single-phase transition metal carbide powders by combining citric acid complexing method and ball-milling dispersion. High-entropy carbides (Zr0.25Ti0.25Ta0.25Nb0.25)C (4TmC), (Zr0.2Ti0.2Ta0.2Nb0.2Hf0.2)C (5TmC-H) and (Zr0.2Ti0.2Ta0.2Nb0.2Mo0.2)C (5TmC-M) were successfully fabricated by this method using low-cost raw materials. The element and phase composition and microstructures of the obtained carbide powders were investigated. The relationships of synthesis process and temperature with chemical composition were also discussed. (Zr0.25Ti0.25Ta0.25Nb0.25)C can be obtained by a one-step process at 1550 °C, while (Zr0.2Ti0.2Ta0.2Nb0.2Hf0.2)C and (Zr0.2Ti0.2Ta0.2Nb0.2Mo0.2)C are fabricated by a two-step process of carbothermal reduction followed by solid solution at the temperatures not lower than 1850 °C and 1650 °C. The higher synthesis temperatures of the five-component carbides are attributed to the obvious sluggish diffusion effect induced by the larger lattice distortions. The particle sizes of (Zr0.25Ti0.25Ta0.25Nb0.25)C, (Zr0.2Ti0.2Ta0.2Nb0.2Hf0.2)C and (Zr0.2Ti0.2Ta0.2Nb0.2Mo0.2)C powders are 118.2±26.1 nm (at 1550 °C), 284.8±73.7 nm (at 1850 °C) and 65.5±13.9 nm (at 1750 °C), respectively.
SPOCK2 Expression Correlates with Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Proliferation, Invasion, and Tumorigenesis
Authors: Xu Yitong , Liang Lijie , Zhu Chaonan , Wang Chenglong , Jiang Jun , Zhang Yao , Jiang Xizi , Su Hongbo , Ren Hongjiu , Qiu Xueshan
Published: May 2021

Purpose: Lung cancer is one of the leading causes of death worldwide. Sparc (osteonectin), cwcv, and Kazal-like domains proteoglycan 2 (SPOCK2) play important roles in the development and progression of various types of human cancers. However, the role of SPOCK2 in non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is unclear. Hence, we aimed to elucidate the role of SPOCK2 in NSCLC. Methods: Real-time PCR and immunohistochemistry were used to study the relationship between SPOCK2 expression and the clinicopathology of NSCLC. SPOCK2 expression was modulated using siRNA (knockdown) or pcmv6-myc-DDK-SPOCK2 (overexpression). The invasion and migration abilities of NSCLC cells were assessed using a Transwell chamber assay, and cell proliferation was studied using the MTT and colony formation assays. Furthermore, axilla and tail vein inoculation using nude mice helped elucidate the function of SPOCK2 in vivo. The expression of related proteins was analyzed using western blotting. SPOCK2 methylation was detected using real-time PCR following the treatment of cells with decitabine. Results: The mRNA and protein levels of SPOCK2 were lower in NSCLC tissues than in adjacent normal lung tissues. SPOCK2 overexpression inhibited cell proliferation, migration, and invasion in A549, H1299 cells, and nude mice. Notch and Erk signaling pathways were inhibited by SPOCK2, whereas the Hippo pathway was activated. SPOCK2 was methylated in NSCLC cell lines. SPOCK2 expression was negatively correlated with NSCLC progression. Conclusion: Taken together, our findings indicate that SPOCK2 methylation may result in its low expression, and the levels of SPOCK2 methylation may be associated with poor prognosis in NSCLC.
Candida and the Gram-Positive Trio: Testing the Vibe in the Icu Patient Microbiome Using Structural Equation Modelling of Literature Derived Data.
Authors: Hurley James
Published: May 2021

BackgroundWhether Candida interacts with Gram-positive bacteria to enhance their invasive potential from the microbiome of ICU patients remains unclear. Several effective interventions to prevent ICU acquired infection would be expected to variably impact Candida colonization.MethodsFour candidate generalized structural equation models (GSEM), using Staphylococcus aureus, coagulase negative Staphylococci (CNS) and Enterococci colonization as latent variables, were confronted with blood culture and respiratory tract isolate data derived from > 400 groups from >250 infection prevention studies.ResultsIntroducing interaction terms between Candida colonization and each of Staphylococcus aureus (coefficient +0.34; 95% confidence interval 0.19 to 0.48) and Enterococcal (+0.55; 0.23 to 0.86) colonization (all as latent variables) improved the fit for each model. The magnitude and significance level of the interaction terms were similar to the positive associations between exposure to topical antibiotic prophylaxis (TAP) on Enterococcal (+0.52; 0.06 to 1.0) versus the negative association with Staphylococcus aureus (-0.42; -0.66 to -0.17) colonization.ConclusionsGSEM modelling of published ICU infection prevention data implies interactions between Candida and Gram-positive bacteria in the human microbiome. This interaction might also account for the paradoxically high incidences among studies of TAP in ICU patients.
Habitat Patch Metrics for Restoring Species Flow in Urban Context; Special Reference to Fragmentation of Colombo Wetlands, Sri Lanka.
Authors: Ekanayake Maheshika
Published: May 2021

BackgroundColombo wetlands (CW) are the last ecological frontier of the Sri Lankan National capital. CW network has Classified as the most vulnerable ecosystem under the Ramsar convention which suffered from severe fragmentation due to human encroachments and urban densifications. Over the past few decades, 31% of habitat loss resulted in the dislocation and extinction of many species in the wetland forest. Currently, restoration efforts are taking place to rehabilitate the ecology through wetland parks and ecological patches. However, promotion of the species movement is not evident through the development of isolated patches due to fewer considerations of the connectivity in the Urban matrix. Therefore, management of ecological network connectivity is a predominant measure to rehabilitate the CW habitats. Even though the literature suggests that patch metrics are a vital threshold to predict the species flow rates, lack of scientific research involved in such phenomenon in Sri Lanka. Thus, this study experimentally investigates the role of ecological patch metrics towards connectivity index in Colombo urban wetlands. The study equips remote sensing data 2018 to calculate the wetland patch metrics (Configuration) of Total area (TA), Total edge (TE), Shape Index (SI), Core area index (CAI), and Inter-patch distances (IPD) for 3 sample locations. GIS modeled Least cost paths within CW boundaries are acquired to calculate the Species flow Index (SFI) per patch for common species. ResultsThe Pearson correlation test explicitly proves that (P< 0.05) the SFI co-related with TA, TE, CAI, and IPD. A strong positive correlation was observed in patch metrics of TA, TE, and CAI and a strong negative in IPD against SFI. Furthermore, based on connectivity contributions, the study proposed three wetland patch classifications as open patches, closed patches, and active patches the which are rated upon the species flow. ConclusionIn city-level implications, improvement of total area, perimeter, and reduction of interpatch distance for “active wetland patch” will result in re-gaining the species flow for Colombo wetlands. The overall study is an applied model for restoring urban ecological networks to gain maximize connectivity index to preserve species richness in urban ecological networks.
Is glucose-6-phosphatase dehydrogenase deficiency associated with severe outcomes in hospitalized COVID-19 patients?
Authors: Kumar Nitya , AbdulRahman AbdulKareem , AlAwadhi Abdulla , AlQahtani Manaf
Published: May 2021

Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency (G6PDd) is known to suppress the antioxidant system and is likely to aggravate severity of COVID-19, which results in a pro-oxidant response. This possible association has not been explored adequately in human studies. In this research, we report that the occurrence of non-invasive ventilation, intubation or death – all of which are indicative of severe COVID-19, are not significantly different in hospitalized COVID-19 patients with and without G6PDd (4.6 vs. 6.4%, p=0.33). The likelihood of developing any of these severe outcomes were slightly lower in patients with G6PDd after accounting for age, nationality, presence of comorbidities and drug interventions (Odds Ratio: 0.40, 95% confidence intervals: 0.142, 1.148). Further investigation that extends to both, hospitalized and non-hospitalized COVID-19 patients, is warranted to study this potential association.
COOPETITIVE MODEL OF INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT IN SUMY REGION AS A PREREQUISITE FOR PREVENTION OF LABOR MIGRATION
Authors: Shvindina H.O. , Kushch V.O. Kushch V.O.
Published: May 2021

Economic transformations in Ukraine push industrial enterprises to seek radically new approaches to solving current problems. This article is devoted to the study of the main scientific approaches to the identification of the strategy of industrial enterprise development as a prerequisite for the impact on labor migration in the region. Numerous studies and experts argue that among the many factors of labor migration, economic reasons are central. During the study, the authors conducted a comprehensive analysis of the competitive environment of an industrial enterprise that is a leading producer of bricks. The critical factors of success were identified in the study; the factor analysis of micro- and macroenvironment was carried out. Among all the methods of strategic analysis, the SPACE-method was chosen for the identification of enterprise development strategy. As a result of a combination of statistics, expert assessments, and the results of previous studies, a strategy of centered diversification was offered for further implementation. As an option to diversification, the offer to implement the strategy of coopetition was developed. If implemented, coopetition strategy has a lot of advantages: reduction of competitive pressure, increase of resource provision, scaling of production, reduction of production costs, creation of reserves for the development of personnel potential. The paper presents theoretical generalizations about the strategy of coopetition, its forms, the main prerequisites for implementation. The innovative development of industrial enterprises is the key to the development of the region, including an increase in average wages, and therefore the strategic decisions of one market operator affect others. It is proposed to create a consortium for a specific case of development of innovation potential of the region. This consortium is an educational and scientific one, which, in addition to solving staffing issues, can help slow down labor migration.
THEORETICAL FUNDAMENTALS OF FORMATION OF INFORMATION BASE FOR RESEARCH OF RISK OF USE OF FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS OF UKRAINE FOR THE PURPOSE OF CRIME INCOMES LEGALIZATION
Authors: Lieonov S. , Kuzmenko O. , Kushneriov O. , Lyulyov О. , Kwilinski O.
Published: May 2021

The article examines the features of risk assessment of legalization of illegal income of economic entities through the operations of financial institutions, namely banks. The author substantiates the need and importance of determining the information base for the formation of the risk of money laundering through banks, as the rapid growth of legalization of criminal proceeds clearly confirms the growing threat to economic security, and hence the need to quantify it. Modern methods of risk assessment of money laundering are considered, as well as the main indicators that can be used for further rational research are identified.
USING SOCIAL MEDIA PLATFORMS TO CREATE AND DEVELOP BUSINESS PROJECTS
Authors: Pokhylko S. , Eremenko A.
Published: May 2021

The article is devoted to the research into social networks usage for doing business. Due to the fact that the life of modern people is filled to the brim with social media and almost everyone owns a social media profile, a large number of entrepreneurs responded immediately by creating business accounts in the places with the capacity potential audience. The amount of social networkers is growing and, as a result, the volume of online purchases will also grow accordingly. The article discusses in detail many popular social media, the potentialities of working there. It is specific about the relationship between a client and a company selling goods/services. The research analyzes the adoption of social networks in marketing activities and suggests the algorithm for a such purpose. The advantages and disadvantages of a company's presence in social networks are compared in the papers. Preliminary results suggest that there is positive effect on business evolution using social networking. Moreover, the upper hand of developing and doing business in the nets are considered to be the growth in sales of goods/services and a significant increase in traffic, in addition customers can easily recognize a brand through a logo, advertising, video. The seller has the opportunity to work from any area in the world without a definite reference to a place. Start-up costs for business projects in networks are minimal compared to other types of business projects. The excellent chance to promote work partnership through networks, the possibility of saving on advertising and attracting a broad clientele is traced in the papers. There has been a steep rise in customers' trust due to pages open access in social networks. In the conducted research the main stages of carrying on a business in social media were defined. It is suggested that an effective marketing strategy while promoting goods/services in networks will provide considerable benefits to a trade project. A rapid acceleration in business income from social media has a massive impact on the domestic economic growth and contributes to its advancement in general.
CURRENT STATE OF TRANSPARENCY OF PUBLIC FINANCES OF UKRAINE
Authors: Shkolnyk I. , Miroshnichenko O. , Havrysh Yu. , Ivanchenko A.
Published: May 2021

Transparency in public finances is one of the main features of a mature democratic society, as well as one of the main tools for reducing corruption in the country. The level of transparency in the formation and use of budget funds at the state and local levels affects the effectiveness of financial policy in the country. Therefore, the purpose of the study is to determine the current state of transparency in the formation of the state budget of Ukraine. The article conducted a comprehensive study of the level of transparency of public finances at the macro level. The dynamics of changes in the qualitative level of transparency of legislative and executive bodies during the period of Ukraine's participation in the international organization of monitoring the publicity of the government before the public is analyzed. In particular, the authors analyzed the dynamics of the budget openness index in comparison with other countries and the integrated assessment of budget transparency for the period from 2008 to 2019. In addition, the level of public participation in budget formation at different stages of the budget process was studied. There is a positive trend of improving the level of openness of public authorities in Ukraine in the formation and use of public finances. This, in turn, is part of a global trend. The article presents a description of the main documents that serve as indicators of informing the public about the state of the budget, the level of its implementation, the formation of the budget for future periods and the budget process in general. It is determined that the system of transparent and accessible public accountability for the formation and use of public finances has not been formed yet. The results of the study can be the basis for developing measures to increase the level of transparency of public authorities in Ukraine. According to the study, a high level of transparency becomes the basis for public support for the government, provided that the government does not abuse its powers, or conversely becomes an incentive for active public participation in political and economic life to improve or change government. According to the results of the research, a system of measures of priority importance is proposed.
PRICING IN THE NATURAL GAS MARKET OF UKRAINE IN TERMS OF ENERGY INTEGRATION OF UKRAINE AND THE EU
Authors: Vakulenko I.A. , Vasilyeva T.A.
Published: May 2021

The article examines the formation of natural gas prices in the Ukrainian and world energy markets. The role of energy as a driver of economic development of national and international economy due to the penetration of energy into other sectors of the economy and the formation of close relationships that promote mutual development, innovation, and competitive environment. The paper identifies the legal framework through which the natural gas market regulation in the European Union (in particular directives of the European Parliament and of the Council and guidance note on directives) and Ukraine and legislates the vector of development of the energy sector following strategic economic and environmental goals (in particular Treaty establishing the Energy Community, Association Agreement between Ukraine, of the one part, and the European Union, the European Atomic Energy Community and their Member States, of the other part, and laws of Ukraine). Based on the analysis of natural gas prices in the world energy market, the attractiveness of using natural gas as a substitute for energy products of oil refining is substantiated. To identify the pricing mechanisms used to form natural gas prices in the natural gas market in Ukraine pricing approaches used in different countries of the world are defined and described, in particular, gason-gas competition (GOG)), oil price escalation (OPE), regulated prices (including regulation: cost of service (RCS)), regulation: social and political (RSP), regulation below cost (RBC), bilateral monopoly (BIM)), free use of natural gas (No price (NP)). Based on the study of natural gas price formation mechanisms, it is established that at the present stage of development of Ukraine's energy sector is characterized by the transition from a regulated pricing mechanism in the natural gas market to gas and gas competitive prices. However, the transition phase is characterized by the partial use of the mechanism of bilateral monopoly prices. Simultaneously, it was determined that the formation of costs according to the oil formula is not typical for Ukraine's natural gas market.
Formation of Human Capital in the Digital Economy
Authors: Melnyk Leonid Hr. , Matsenko Oleksandr M. , Piven Vladyslav S. , Derykolenko Oleksandr M. , Kyrylenko Maksym V.
Published: May 2021

The article studies the role and various manifestations of human capital in the functioning and development of the digital economy. The key context of the research is the phenomenon of reproduction of the components of human capital, including the processes of production and consumption. As an important prerequisite for reproduction, the phenomenon of streamlining the three basic origins of functioning of economic systems is analyzed: material, informational and synergetic. The relationship and interaction of these origins play an important role in the formation of various types of capital, including human capital. The article reveals the content and directions of investing in the main components of the reproductive cycle of the economic system: demand, property relations, performers, governing bodies, infrastructure, and natural factors. The article focuses on the analysis of the trialectic foundations of the reproduction of human capital through the formation and interaction of the essential origins of man: biological, social, and labor. The man-consumer of the digital economy is fundamentally different from the human-consumer of previous eras. The main thing is that the vast majority of personal needs become an end in itself, rather than a means of obtaining material benefits in the future. Man-producer will increasingly move from the impact on material objects of labor (change of shapes, sizes, properties) to the impact on information (development of creative industries, the selection of useful information from large data sets). Based on the analysis of the substantive basis of the three industrial revolutions (third, fourth, and fifth), transformational changes are predicted, which should take place during the phase of transition to a new socio-economic formation. The main ones are sustainization of human consciousness, digitalization, and networkization of competencies; formation of the ability to live in the conditions of Internet of Things; sociologization of development, etc.
Formation of the Domestic Dual Studies Pattern and Superposition of Stakeholders – The Case of Ukraine
Authors: Vasylieva Tetiana , Davlikanova Olena
Published: May 2021

The article investigates the results of stakeholder analysis applied in the course of design and implementation of a national-level project aimed at Ukrainian dual studies management (DSM) system formation. The concept of dual studies (DS) was introduced and promoted in Ukraine thanks to a launched in 2013 project conducted by the Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung Office in Ukraine (FES-Ukraine) in cooperation with the Ministry of Education and Science of Ukraine (MES), Ukrainian Marketing Association, a wide range of higher educational establishments (HEEs), employers, their associations and other interested parties. Being a complex project, it required deliberate approach to stakeholder analysis and classification that allowed shaping well-targeted strategies aimed at ensuring the required scope of stakeholders’ engagement. The authors applied the Mendelow’s Matrix of stakeholder classification; offered classification of stakeholders according to the DSM levels (macro or state level; meso or regional and sectoral level; and micro level or the level of HEE-company cooperation); and, in addition, in 2013 (launch of the project) and 2019 (launch of the national experiment of DSM introduction as a result of project activities) the authors conducted superposition of stakeholders in the “impact – engagement” system of coordinates. This approach demonstrated expected vs. caused impact of stakeholders on DSM introduction and their expected/real engagement into DSM system functioning in Ukraine. A superposition interference as of 2013 and 2019 demonstrated differences in the list and functions of stakeholders engaged into Ukrainian DSM system on the initial and current stages of its development. This allowed confirming the hypothesis concerning the impossibility of German DSM management system “import” without its adaptation to the national context.
International Logistics Systems: Research of Transformations under the Influence of Recession and Definition of Perspective Directions of Logistics Architecture Development
Authors: Sabadash Viktor , Chorna Yaroslava , Falko Kateryna
Published: May 2021

The recession caused by the COVID-19 pandemic is affecting the activities of economic operators in the vast majority of sectors. It is obvious that the impact of the pandemic factor on the transport and logistics sector has reached a significant scale. Logistics companies involved in the movement (delivery) and storage of goods (cargo) were directly affected by SARS-CoV-2. As an integral part of production and distribution chains both domestically and in the global market, logistics companies directly promote trade and commerce and help companies deliver their products (goods) to customers (buyers, consumers). Thus, supply chain disruptions caused by the pandemic significantly affect the competitiveness of companies, communications, economic growth, job creation and preservation, business scaling. The paper examines the functioning of logistics systems and international transport supply chains in the difficult conditions of recession caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. A critical analysis of the architecture, capabilities and efficiency of global logistics and the challenges that shape modern trends and behaviour (production, sales, marketing, etc.) of economic entities. The paper examines the effects of the SARS-Cov-2 pandemic on the efficiency of these systems, namely – economic and marketing aspects, as well as changes in the organizational structure.
The study identifies and analyses current transformations of trade and logistics relations and emphasizes the need to develop a new logistics architecture taking into account key factors influencing the industry through the definition of a set of economic (financial, commercial, investment) indicators that reflect the state of the industry with further development of effective strategic measures to support and develop logistics architecture based on innovation and implementation of non-conflicting business practices.
Financial Support for Smart Manufacturing towards Industry 4.0 in the Context of Sustainable Development
Authors: Bulavinova Nataliіa , Ihnatchenko Anastasiіa
Published: May 2021

The transformational changes in the ecosystem over the past two decades have led to the technological leap that made all scientists talk about the Fourth Industrial Revolution. Against the background of the changes that the revolution personifies, the determining factor is the study of the issue of smart manufacturing as the main link in the revolution. The paradigm in the development of smart manufacturing is not only the development of such technologies as artificial intelligence, blockchain in manufacturing, the Industrial Internet of Things, robotics, cybersecurity, etc. but also the financial security of all its processes. Since smart manufacturing is a specific category of economic development, it also requires specific funding. The article investigates the terminological definition of Smart Manufacturing. The Smart Manufacturing market was studied, and a forecast for the coming years was made. At the beginning of 2019, the market was USD 204,95 billion and USD 422.88 billion by 2025. The work is substantiated, Smart Factory is a mechanism workshop for Smart Manufacturing. Although, in our opinion, Smart Factory is the environment for the formation of technologies, that improve the work of manufacturing mechanisms. The importance of becoming Industry 4.0 based on the principles of sustainable development is determined. Since human activity has led to the destruction of the ecosystem. The budgets of the world's leading countries for the development of Smart Manufacturing have been studied. Тhe leader is Germany. It is planned to spend USD 200 million of public funding and USD 300 million of private one (business investment). The authors noted the importance of implementing responsible investing. The investment climate of Ukraine has been studied. In 2019, Ukraine is ranked 64th in the Doing Business ranking, 85th in the Global Competitiveness Index, 47th in the Global Innovation Index and 126th in the Transparency International ranking. The lack of implementation of almost all principles of Smart Manufacturing is noted.
Greener Approaches to Selected Asymmetric Addition Reactions Relevant to Drug Development
Authors: Singh Girija S.
Published: May 2021

Asymmetric organic synthesis is of paramount importance in the development of
drugs. Asymmetric addition reactions such as aldol reaction, Michael addition, and Mannich
addition reactions are important carbon-carbon bond-forming reactions and have been employed
in the synthesis of a broad range of biologically important molecules. Many of these
reactions have been developed under solvent-free conditions or in greener solvents like water.
Several reactions have been developed at room temperature or by using a non-conventional
energy source such as microwave irradiation. Several greener catalysts have been developed
for such reactions. The present review article discusses the application of green chemistry
parameters in the development of selected asymmetric addition reactions leading to biologically
important molecules during the last ten years. Asymmetric aldol reactions, asymmetric
Michael reactions, and different asymmetric addition reactions involving imines such as
Mannich reaction, aza-benzoin reaction, etc. in aqueous media or under solvent-free conditions
have been reviewed. Application of different types of catalysts such as prolinamides, 1,2-diamines, polymer and
magnetic nanoparticle-supported chiral catalysts is demonstrated.
Quantitative Determination of Quercitrin Levels in Rat Plasma Using
UHPLC-MS/MS and its Application in a Pharmacokinetic Study after the
Oral Administration of Polygoni cuspidati Folium Capsules
Authors: Ma Shi-tang , Zhang Xin-yuan , Zhang Ning , Bi Xiao-lin , Feng Cheng-Tao
Published: May 2021

Background:

Quercitrin is widely found in herbal medicines, and it is particularly important
in the design of new therapeutic agents. Because of its wide range of biological activities, methods for
detecting quercitrin and its pharmacokinetics in biological samples must be investigated.

Objective:

To develop and validate a sensitive and reliable ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography-
tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC-MS/MS) method for the quantitative determination of quercitrin
levels in rat plasma, and test its application in a pharmacokinetic investigation after the oral administration
of Polygoni cuspidati folium capsules (HC).

Methods:

First, a rapid analytical method implementing UHPLC-MS/MS for the quantification of quercitrin
levels in rat plasma was developed and validated. The analyte and internal standard (IS) tinidazole
were extracted from rat plasma via protein precipitation with 800 μL of methanol and 50 μL of 1% formic
acid solution. Chromatographic separation was performed using an Agilent ZORBAX C18 column
within 4 min. Mass spectrometry was performed for quantification using a triple-quadrupole mass spectrometer
employing electrospray ionization in the negative ion mode. The MRM transitions for quercitrin
and IS were m/z 447.2→229.9 and m/z 246.0→125.8, respectively. The UHPLC-MS/MS method
for the quantitative determination of quercitrin levels in rat plasma was then applied to investigate its
pharmacokinetics after the oral administration of HC in rats.

Results:

The developed UHPLC-MS/MS method for detecting quercitrin in rat plasma was linear over
the range of 0.1–160 ng/mL. The linear regression equation was Y = (0.7373 ± 0.0023)X − (0.0087 ±
0.0021) (r2 = 0.9978). The intra- and interday precision values were within 7.8%, and the recoveries of
quercitrin and IS exceeding 67.3%. The UHPLC-MS/MS method was successfully applied to characterize
the pharmacokinetic profile of quercitrin in eight rats after the oral administration of HC. The experimentally
obtained values were fit to a one-compartment, first-order pharmacokinetic model, and they
appeared to fit the concentration–time curve.

Conclusion:

Quercitrin was proven to be stable during sample storage, preparation, and the analytical
procedures. The pharmacokinetic parameters suggested that quercitrin may be present in the peripheral
tissues of rats.
Guanabenz and Clonidine, α2-Adrenergic Receptor Agonists, Inhibit Choroidal Neovascularization
Authors: Tanaka Miruto , Inoue Yuki , Imai Takahiko , Tanida Norifumi , Takahashi Koichi , Hara Hideaki
Published: May 2021

Background:

Neovascular age-related macular degeneration (AMD) with choroidal neovascularization
(CNV) is a leading cause of blindness in elderly people. Anti-vascular endothelial
growth factor (anti-VEGF)-drugs are used to treat AMD patients; however, some patients are resistant
to these therapies.

Objective:

The purpose of this study was to investigate the anti-angiogenic effects of α2-adrenergic
agonists, including guanabenz and clonidine.

Methods:

We evaluated the anti-angiogenic effects of α2-adrenergic agonists in human retinal microvascular
endothelial cells (HRMECs). A proliferation assay was conducted, and the migration
ratio was evaluated. In a laser-induced CNV model, guanabenz and clonidine were delivered via intraperitoneal
injection or implantation of an osmotic pump device. Fourteen days following CNV
induction, CNV lesion size and fundus fluorescein angiography (FFA) were evaluated.

Results:

Guanabenz and clonidine inhibited VEGF-induced retinal endothelial cell growth and migration.
In the CNV model mice, CNV lesion sizes were reduced by intraperitoneal administration
of guanabenz or clonidine. Data, including body weight, systolic blood pressure, and heart rate
showed that guanabenz (0.5 and 2.0 mg/kg/day) had little effect on these parameters; conversely, a
high dose of clonidine (1.0 mg/kg/day) did affect these parameters. Additionally, clonidine did not
affect CNV size, but continuous administration of guanabenz attenuated both CNV size and leakage
from neovessels.

Conclusion:

Our study suggests a key role for α2-adrenergic receptors during CNV formation.
Therefore, we suggest that α2-adrenergic receptor agonists may represent novel therapeutic drugs
for patients with neovascular AMD.
Detection of Cognitive Impairment by Choice Auditory Reaction Time
(ART) and Visual Reaction Time (VRT)s during Acute Mental Stress in
Young Hypertensives: A Case Control Study
Authors: Khode Vitthal , Patil Satish , Babu Girish , Ruikar Komal , Patel Sakshi
Published: May 2021

Background:

Acute stress is known to be associated with both negative and positive influences
on cognitive performance. Hypertension is one of the risk factors for lowered cognitive
performance. Mental stress testing is easier to administer and can be regulated by the investigator.
Mental arithmetic using serial subtraction is the most widely used method to administer stress. Reaction
time (RT) is widely used to assess cognitive domains like attention, execution and psychomotor
speed. Researchers have shown choice reaction times are delayed in hypertension. It is not
known whether acute mental stress improves or deteriorates attention, execution and psychomotor
speed in hypertension. We hypothesized in the present study that acute mental stress deteriorates
cognitive function in hypertensives without overt cerebrovascular disease or other vascular risk factors.

Method:

After getting medical ethical clearance from our institution, this case-control study was
carried out over eight months (January 2017 to September 2017). 60 subjects between the age
group of 35 to 55 years were included in the study. They were divided into 2 groups. Group 1 consisted
of 30 diagnosed cases of hypertension at least two years of duration. Group 2 consisted of 30
sex and age-matched controls. MMSE was performed to assess the cognitive function in these
groups. Simple (S) and choice (C) auditory reaction time (ART) and visual reaction time (VRT)s
were measured at rest and acute mental stress in these groups to assess cognitive function. Predictive
value of VRTC resting and VRTC during acute mental stress among hypertensives for cognitive
dysfunction was calculated using the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve.

Results:

There was significant difference ART and VRT, both simple and choice, in hypertensive
and nonhypertensive subjects and these reaction times further increased during mental stress
(P<0.001). VRTC can be a predictor of cognitive dysfunction in hypertensives and during acute
mental stress.

Conclusion:

A significant difference in cognitive functions in hypertensive and nonhypertensive
subjects exists and this further deteriorates with acute mental stress.