bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development of a rapid and simple method for isolating apoplastic extracellular vesicles in plants
Authors: Sørensen Kathrine Uhrbrand , Lee Joohee , Kim Tae Hwan , Ryu Moon Young , Kim Mi Jung , Kang Hee Cheol , Yang Woorim , Cho Seok Keun , Yang Seong Wook
Published: November 2024

Recently, attention on plant extracellular vesicles (EVs) has increased alongside growing demands for standardizing their extraction methods. In this study, we compared three methods for isolating EVs from plants, including a novel Enzyme method (E method) designed for rapid apoplastic EV extraction. The E method involves macerozyme-mediated apoplastic washing fluid (AWF) collection followed by EV isolation using polymers and size-fractioning membranes. Compared to the freeze-grinding method (F method) and syringe-infiltration-ultracentrifugation method (SI method), the E method yielded more EVs sized between 50–150 nm and showed comparable purity based on marker protein analysis. Additionally, it facilitated higher EV yield and shorter isolation times, making it suitable for both adult leaf and seedling samples. Assessment in mutant backgrounds (patl1, syp61, and pen1) confirmed the method's robustness across different genetic contexts. These findings highlight the E method as an efficient and reliable approach for plant EV isolation and characterization.
Design and Analysis of High Isolation Four Port Mimo Antenna for N77 Band 5g Communication
Authors: manikonda Ramesh
Published: November 2024

This paper proposes a four-port multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) antenna for 5G communication. The reference hexagonal antenna with WI-FI slots are designed on FR-4 substrate. Next, the four reference antenna are arranged orthogonal to each other for reduction of isolation. The overall dimensions of WI-FI slot four port MIMO antenna is 60×60×1.6 mm3 and it implemented on FR-4 substrate with defective ground structure. With an impedance bandwidth of 1 GHz, the suggested MIMO antenna operates in the frequency range of 3.3 to 4.3 GHz. The mutual coupling is less than − 23dB among all ports. Furthermore, the MIMO antennas' channel capacity loss (CCL), diversity gain (DG), and envelope correlation coefficient (ECC) are estimated. The parameters are measured using anritsu ms2037c VNA.
Prolyl hydroxylase domain inhibitors prevent kidney stone formation by suppressing inflammation
Authors: Kawase Kengo , Hamamoto Shuzo , Unno Rei , Taguchi Kazumi , Okada Atsushi , Yasui Takahiro
Published: November 2024

The early stages of kidney stone formation involve inflammation and hypoxia-induced cell injury; however, the role of the hypoxic response in kidney stone formation remains unclear. This study investigated the effects of a prolyl hydroxylase domain inhibitor (roxadustat) on renal calcium oxalate (CaOx) stone formation through in vitro and in vivo approaches. In the in vitro experiment, murine renal tubular cells (RTCs) were exposed to varying roxadustat concentrations and CaOx crystals. CaOx monohydrate (COM) crystal adhesion was evaluated using fluorescent labels, whereas western blotting was used to examine protein expression. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction was used to analyze gene expression changes. Macrophage responses were investigated by co-culturing them with RTCs treated with COM. In the in vivo experiment, C57BL/6J mice were injected with roxadustat or saline for 2 days, followed by glyoxylate for 6 days to induce renal crystal deposition. Biochemical measurements recorded plasma erythropoietin, urinary data, and pH levels. Roxadustat suppressed the adhesion of COM crystals to RTCs and the expression of proinflammatory genes, such as chemokine (C-C motif) ligand 2 (Ccl2) and secreted phosphoprotein 1 (Spp1). Roxadustat decreased the expression levels of Ccl2, Tnf, and Il6 in co-cultured macrophages. In the in vivo experiment, the amount of renal CaOx crystal deposits was significantly lower in the roxadustat-treated group than in the vehicle group. Roxadustat treatment decreased Ccl2, osteopontin, and F4/80 expression in the kidneys. Roxadustat reduced kidney inflammation and CaOx crystal deposition, suggesting its potential as a therapeutic option for kidney stone prevention.
Effect of Partial Substitution of Wheat Flour (Triticum spp) with Vetch Flour (Vicia sativa) on the Technological and Sensory Properties of Bread.
Authors: Buitrón Lucía , Dini Cecilia , Maldonado-Alvarado Pedro
Published: November 2024

Vicia sativa, commonly known as common vetch, is a leguminous plant primarily grown as a forage crop for livestock. Vetch seeds are not safe for human consumption; however, they contain valuable nutrients, prompting efforts to develop vetch crops with reduced or eliminated antinutrients. Investigating the potential of this crop in food applications may contribute to the development of safe vetch varieties. In this study, the effects of partial substitution of wheat flour (Triticum spp) with vetch flour, up to 25% substitution, were assessed on the rheological, functional, and sensory properties of dough and bread. The water absorption of the dough was reduced by vetch flour, but its rheological properties were not significantly modified at substitutions of up to 10%. With increasing levels of substitution, a decrease in the specific volume of the bread was observed, ranging from 3.30 to 1.79 cm³/g, while maintaining a satisfactory crumb alveolar structure. Sensory tests were conducted to evaluate the acceptability of the bread's appearance and texture. Breads with substitutions of up to 10% had good acceptability. Furthermore, correlations were identified between the rheological properties of the dough and the specific volume of the resulting bread.
Clinical characteristics of PD patients carrying LRRK2 R1628P variant
Authors: Deng Xiao , Kuruvilla Joshua , Ng Ebonne Yu-Lin , Lo Yew-long , Xu Zheyu , Tay Kay-Yaw , Au Wing-Lok , Tan Louis CS , Tan Eng-King , Xiao Bin
Published: November 2024

Parkinson’s Disease (PD) presents devastating challenges for the aging society. Variations in the LRRK2 gene, including R1628Pin Asian populations have been linked to PD risk yet remain under-explored in clinical presentations. We assessed clinical manifestations in R1628P carriers versus non-carriers in an Asian PD cohort. Our study found that LRRK2 R1628Pcarriers had significantly lower Non-Motor Symptom Scale (NMSS) Total score (10 vs 15 p=0.01) than non-carriers. Specifically, NMSS domain 2 score (sleep/fatigue) was lower in carriers compared to non-carriers (0 vs 1, p=0.02), with no significant differences in other NMSS domains. This study underscores the importance of analysing specific LRRK2 variants, to characterise accurately the influence of unique genetic variation of PD relevant gene and identify potential therapeutic target.
Utilization and Characterization of Cassava Starch as a Natural Thickening Agent for Reactive Dye Printing on Cotton Fabric
Authors: Gelaw Belete Baye , Dodi Addis , Berihun Bedlu Endale , Hordofa Dereje Eyi , Awoke Anteneh Tilahun
Published: November 2024

This study investigates the use of cassava root starch as a natural thickening agent for reactive dye printing on cotton fabrics, comparing its effectiveness with sodium alginate. Cassava starch was extracted and applied in various concentrations (1 g to 11 g) to examine its impact on fabric properties such as tensile strength, elongation, bending length, wash and crocking fastness, and crease recovery. The findings showed that cassava starch, particularly at concentrations between 4 g and 6 g, provided optimal tensile strength (up to 373 N in the warp direction) and acceptable elongation while maintaining good wash and crocking fastness. Although cassava starch performed comparably to sodium alginate in fastness tests, its crease recovery was slightly lower, indicating increased fabric stiffness at higher concentrations. The bending length, a measure of fabric stiffness, increased with thickener concentration, with higher levels making the fabric less flexible. The study concluded that cassava starch is a viable, sustainable alternative to synthetic thickeners for textile printing, especially when applied in moderate concentrations that balance strength, flexibility, and print quality. However, higher concentrations of cassava starch led to reduced tensile strength and increased fabric stiffness, which may limit its application in areas requiring high flexibility. Future research should explore methods to further improve the durability and clarity of cassava-starch-printed fabrics.
Methods to observe tribological failures in self-mated steel contacts
Authors: Koly Farida Ahmed , Bhattacharjee Arnab , Murthy Nikhil , Gould Ben , Ajayi Oyelayo , Walck Scott , Martin Cinta Lorenzo , Berkebile Stephen , Burris David L.
Published: November 2024

Scuffing, a type of wear found in highly stressed or poorly lubricated contacts, is characterized by a rapid increase in friction and severe plastic deformation of the near-surface material. Scuffing has proven difficult to study because it initiates unpredictably, progresses rapidly, and typically develops within an inaccessible contact interface. Although there have been successful in-situ studies of scuffing in real-time, the transparent counter body needed for these studies changes the interactions between the surfaces and the lubricant, which affects the scuffing process in unknown ways. This paper describes the development of X-ray-compatible tribometry to study the scuffing of self-mated steels in-situ and in real-time. The method uses a crossed-cylinders configuration with a thin (500 µm thick) stationary component and a small (≈ 200 µm) contact width to maximize X-ray interactions with atoms within the stress field generated by the contact. The resulting instrument and method are used to benchmark the scuffing response of self-mated 52100 steel under tribologically challenging ‘oil-off’ lubrication conditions. The results demonstrate reliable scuffing in this configuration despite the relatively small contact areas and loads used. Following scuffing, gross plastic deformation was observed on both surfaces along with significant subsurface grain refinement and flow only on the stationary surface, which experienced constant contact. Interestingly, high friction initiated at specific locations of the migratory surface, which experienced intermittent contact, and then propagated across the track over time, suggesting that local conditions of the migratory surface dominated friction leading into the failure event.
Infrared and Visible Image Alignment Method Based on Gradient Distribution Properties and Scale Invariant Features in Electric Power Scenes
Authors: Zhu Lin , Mao Yuxing , Chen Chunxu , Ning Lanjia
Published: November 2024

In the grid intelligent inspection system, automatic registration of infrared and visible light images in power scenes is a crucial research technology. Since there are obvious differences in key attributes between visible and infrared images, direct alignment is often difficult to achieve the expected results. To overcome the high difficulty of aligning infrared and visible light images, an image alignment method is proposed in this paper. First, we use the Sobel operator to extract the edge information of the image pair. Second, the feature points in the edges are recognized by a curvature scale space (CSS)corner detector. Third, the Histogram of Orientation Gradients (HOG) is extracted as the gradient distribution characteristics of the feature points, which are normalized with the Scale Invariant Feature Transform (SIFT) algorithm to form feature descriptors. Finally, initial matching and accurate matching are achieved by the improved fast approximate nearest neighbor matching method and adaptive thresholding, respectively. Experiments show that this method can robustly match the feature points of image pairs under rotation, scale, and viewpoint differences, and achieves excellent matching results.
Epidemiological and Clinical Characteristics of Patients Hospitalized in the Burn Intensive Care Unit of a City Hospital in Turkey: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Yılmaz Makbule , Şahin Fatma , Ata Ayşenur , Kuğuoğlu Sema , Filinte Gaye , Türk Gülay , Al Nevin , Çoban Niran
Published: November 2024

Background Burn epidemiological research has global importance in terms of evaluating the effectiveness of existing burn prevention strategies and therapeutic care. This study aimed to provide guidance on burn prevention by examining the epidemiological and clinical characteristics of pediatric burn patients hospitalized in the burn intensive care unit of a city hospital in Turkey.Methods A retrospective study was conducted using electronic medical records of pediatric patients hospitalized in the Burn Intensive Care Unit (ICU) of the Wound and Burn Treatment Center of a public hospital in Turkey between January 1, 2013 and January 1, 2023.Results The study included 283 pediatric burn patients (129-aged 0–2 years, 44 aged 3–6 years, 34 aged 7–11 years, and 76 aged 12–18 years). Scald burns were more common in children aged 0–2 years (p < 0.001) and electrical burns in children aged 12–18 years (p < 0.001) when compared to the other age groups. The mortality rate was highest in children aged 3–6 years (20.5%) and was higher in cases of flame burns than scald burns (p = 0.015). The mean total body surface area burned (TBSA) was lower in children with electrical burns than in children with flame and scald burns (p < 0.001, p = 0.004). There was a significant positive correlation between TBSA and length of hospital stay (r = 0.319, p < 0.001).Conclusions Discussion: According to the results of this study, pediatric burns treated in the intensive care unit represented the highest age group of 0–2 years old. Mortality rates were found to be highest in children aged 3–6 years old.
Early life RSV infection as a preventable risk factor for asthma
Authors: Lambrecht Bart
Published: November 2024

Allergic asthma is increasingly common and strongly influenced by genes and environment1,2. Human respiratory syncytial virus (hRSV) bronchiolitis is a common cause of early life wheezing but it is less clear if and how it is a risk factor for allergy, recurrent wheezing in early childhood, and persistent asthma3,4. Here, we studied the Danish National Patient and Prescription Registries and found that children admitted to hospital for RSV bronchiolitis in the first 6 months of life had a 3-fold higher risk of hospital-diagnosed asthma until the age of 24 years compared with uninfected children. The risk for asthma was highest when either or both of the parents also had an asthma diagnosis, but particularly children born to an asthmatic mother and hospitalized with hRSV had a 5.4-fold increased asthma risk compared to non-infected children born to non-asthmatic parents. To model this, we infected mice in the first week of life with pneumonia virus of mice5, the murine counterpart of human RSV. When exposed to allergen in the perinatal period, infected mice developed more severe asthma features in adulthood, and this effect was strongly enhanced by maternal allergy. Mechanistically, virus infection in the pups induced the expression of activating antibody Fc receptors on dendritic cells. Neonatal dendritic cells used antibodies transferred from allergic dams to recognize allergen, explaining enhanced Th2 polarization in allergen-reactive T cells in offspring of allergic mothers. Given the recent recommendations of maternal RSV vaccination in pregnancy6 or RSV immunoprophylaxis of all newborns using long-acting RSV-neutralizing antibodies7-9, we administered cross-protective neutralizing RSV antibodies to lactating dams, and this abolished the enhancing effects of PVM infection on Th2 priming and asthma risk in the offspring. Combined, these epidemiological and mechanistic data show that early life RSV infection is a preventable risk factor for asthma, influenced by parental asthma history. Since 15% of childhood asthma is attributable to RSV irrespective of severity10, universal immunoprophylaxis in the perinatal period could have profound effects on asthma incidence and healthcare needs.
Complementary feeding practices and added sugar consumption among urban children aged 6-23 months in Kampala, Uganda: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Mwesigwa Catherine Lutalo , Nabaggala Grace Sanyu , Nakyonyi Maria-Goretti , Ndagire Barbara , Kalanzi Dunstan , Kutesa Annet M. , Naidoo Sudeshni
Published: November 2024

Background
The World Health Organization has established key indicators to monitor infant and young child feeding practices globally, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. In urban areas, the nutrition transition from traditional diets has increased the consumption of ultra-processed foods/beverages and added sugar, raising concerns about their impact on children's diets and health. This study aimed to investigate complementary feeding practices, added sugar use, and sources of nutrition information among caregivers of young children in Kampala, Uganda.
Methods
This secondary analysis was conducted in August 2024, using data from a cross-sectional study conducted in 2021 on commercial baby food consumption among 6–36 month olds in Kampala, Uganda. For this analysis, 286 children aged 6–23 months were selected through systematic sampling. Data collection focused on eight WHO complementary and two breastfeeding indicators, sources of nutrition information, and added sugar consumption. Descriptive statistics and modified Poisson regression assessed associations to examine the association between socio-demographic factors and dietary indicators.
Results
The study included 286 children aged 6–23 months with a median age of 14 months. Nearly all caregivers reported that the children had ever breastfed since the birth, with 67.1% still breastfeeding at the time of the study. Added sugar consumption was high, with 89.9% of children consuming added sugars. Only 37.1% met the minimum dietary diversity, and 33.9% met the minimum acceptable diet. Higher maternal education and socio-economic status were associated with better dietary diversity and acceptable diet. Family and the internet were the most common sources of nutrition information.
Conclusion
Complementary feeding practices in urban Kampala reveal high breastfeeding rates but significant added sugar consumption and low dietary diversity. There is a need for policies and guidelines emphasising the quality of both commercial and home-prepared foods and addressing the consumption of ultra-processed foods and beverages. Nutritional education should leverage internet access to deliver tailored infant and young child feeding messages effectively. Improving complementary feeding practices can enhance children's nutritional outcomes and overall health in urban Uganda. This study underscores the importance of targeted interventions and policy measures to promote optimal feeding practices and improve the nutritional status of young children.
Human Cell Cytotoxicity, Anti-Microbial Effect and Chromatographic Analyses of Leaf and Fruit Extracts of Olea europaea (Olive) Collected from Different Distances to Yatagan Thermal Power Plant in Mugla, Türkiye
Authors: Gürbüz Esra , Sandallı Aytül , Tetikoğlu Funda Bilgili , Şeker Enes , Kıran Naciye Nisa , Tetikoğlu Sinan , Muratoğlu Hacer , Turumtay Emine Akyüz , Uzuner Selcen Çelik
Published: November 2024

Thermal power plants (TPP) are important for meeting today's increasing energy needs. However, TPPs pose risks to the ecosystem and human health. Olea europea (olive) grows widely in the Aegean region and is commonly used in the human diet. The TPP in Yatağan is close to the agricultural and residential areas. However, the effect of closeness to TPP on olives and the cytotoxic effect of olives close to TPPs on human cells is unknown. This study showed 1) phenolic compounds, flavonoids, and fundamental olive contents changed in the fruit and leaf extracts collected far-medium-close to TPP, 2) extracts obtained from olives close to the TPP had cytotoxic effects on healthy human cells, and 3) the highest antimicrobial activity of extracts was found against Staphylococcus aureus regardless of distance to the TPP. The findings suggest that TPPs may affect the nutritional value of olives, and the viability of human cells.
Rezension zu: Benjamin Hartmann, The Scribes of Rome. A Cultural and Social History of the Scribae
Authors: Reis Alexander
Published: November 2024

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Exploring Family Financial Socialisation Activities in Malaysia
Authors:   School of Social Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia, Loke Yiing Jia
Published: November 2024

Parents play a pivotal role as the first financial educators for children through family financial socialisation. The positive effects of family financial socialisation on young adults’ financial capabilities are well established in many studies. Given the importance of family financial socialisation, less is known about the factors that shape and determine the ways and the extent family financial socialisation is carried out in various families. The main purpose of this article is to explore the association of various factors such as parents’ characteristics, family demographics, and parents’ financial experience on the types and extent of family financial socialisation activities that take place in Malaysian families. Financial experiential learning, financial discussion, and demonstration of financial activities are the three-family financial socialisation activities explored in this study. Using a sample study from Pulau Pinang, it is found that parents’ socioeconomic status, age, family demographics, parents’ financial sophistication and parents’ financialmarital strain have significant associations and effects on types of family financial socialisation activities that take place in Malaysian homes.
Amerika Syarikat, Misi Judd dan Darurat di Tanah Melayu, 1948–1960
Authors:   Department of History, Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, Ismail Noorilham
Published: November 2024

This study centres on the discussion of the special mission visit of the United States of America to Malaya during national state of emergency in the year from 1948 until 1960. The Judd Mission visit took place in Malaya and other countries in Southeast Asia on 1953. To meet the objective of this study, the Judd Mission visit was assessed in terms of the benefit it has on Malaya as well as its importance at Southeast Asian level. The chronology of the discussion is then followed by its geostrategic importance which includes the distribution of economic aid for Malaya. To fulfil the aim of the study, a qualitative research approach was employed. An analysis on primary documents obtained from an archive was utilised to form a more informative and authoritative discussion of the research topic. The primary documents analysed in this study were published papers such as documents from Foreign Relation of the United States (FRUS) and Pentagon Papers as well as other related primary documents available online. Besides that, this study also employed sources from The Department of State Bulletin, Hathi Trust Digital Library and Public Papers of the President of the United States. All of the sources were analysed, translated, organised and processed to form the chronology of discussion of the Judd Mission in Malaya. Secondary sources such as books, articles, journals and doctoral thesis were also utilised to build a more systematic narrative of the discussion. Lastly, this study concluded that the Judd Mission visit from the United States to Malaya during the national state of emergency brought forth geostrategic and economic importance for both parties.
Memperluas Pelaksanaan Wakaf Pendidikan di Malaysia
Authors:   Center for Sharia Studies, Faculty of Islamic Studies, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Selangor, Malaysia, Noor Ariffin Mohd Faizal , Yahaya Mohammad Zaini ,   Center for Sharia Studies, Faculty of Islamic Studies, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Selangor, Malaysia, Mohamad Abdul Basir ,   Center for Sharia Studies, Faculty of Islamic Studies, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Selangor, Malaysia
Published: November 2024

Providing a conducive and contemporary educational infrastructure requires a large-scale budget. Plus, learning ecosystem should be developed in line with current technologies. It is inefficient to depend on government allocation for education in the long run. Constructive engagement dan active contribution from all parties are strongly needed. Hence, stern actions to come out with comprehensive, concrete and resilient solutions are essential. This vacuum can be filled with education waqf as an alternative shariah compliance financial mechanism which characterise a complementative and sustainable fund. This article aims to review the feasibility of education waqf for the school level in the Malaysian status quo and education system. Qualitative approach with content analysis is used. The data collection method is the analysis of secondary source documents and being analysed descriptively as well as inductively. The results show that there are several constraints to implement educational waqf broadly such as legal factors. However, there are still spaces that can be utilised to implement educational waqf comprehensively through collaborative cooperation with stakeholders. All stakeholders in education must manipulate all capabilities and resources towards realising this aspiration, especially in an era of increasingly complex education with the COVID-19 pandemic threat and global economic uncertainty.
Wakaf Irsod di Negeri Terengganu: Satu Kajian Perbandingan antara Hukum Syarak dan Pelaksanaannya
Authors:   Faculty of Contemporary Islam, Universiti Sultan Zainal Abidin, Gong Badak Campus, Terengganu, Malaysia, Mohamad Ridzuan , Nordin Nadhirah ,   Faculty of Contemporary Islam, Universiti Sultan Zainal Abidin, Gong Badak Campus, Terengganu, Malaysia, Mohd Yusoff Zurita ,   Faculty of Contemporary Islam, Universiti Sultan Zainal Abidin, Gong Badak Campus, Terengganu, Malaysia
Published: November 2024

Irsod waqf is a type of waqf that is mentioned in fiqh (Islamic jurisprudence). Its existence has not been discussed much academically compared to other types of waqf, such as family waqf, cash waqf, muaqqat waqf etc. This study explores the position of irsod waqf by examining several aspects, such as the debate about Islamic law and its implementation procedures. It focuses only on the implementation of irsod waqf in Terengganu because its policies and legislative provisions are found in the Waqf Enactment Terengganu 2016. This study uses qualitative methods. The research technique uses content analysis. Findings show that there are three important elements in the relationship between Islamic law and its implementation by Majlis Agama Islam dan Adat Melayu Terengganu (MAIDAM), which are the possession of property, purpose of the waqf and the method for implementing the waqf. The three elements have a significant relationship, whereby its position is consistent with fiqh and contemporary legislation, namely the National Land Code 1965 Act 56. Findings of this study have contributed to the MAIDAM, in the form of a reference or guide when implementing improvements to waqf proceedings. In addition, it has created opportunities for further in-depth studies.
Enhancing Malaysia’s Halal Brand Identity: Insights and Strategies for Sustainable Global Halal Hub
Authors:   School of Communication, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia, Ahmad Jamilah , Widayatmoko Widayatmoko ,   Tri Bhakti Business School, Kota Bekasi, Jawa Barat, Indonesia, Md Taib Fauziah ,   School of Management, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
Published: November 2024

Halal branding has become an essential strategy for businesses to cater to the needs of Muslim consumers and tap into a rapidly growing market. Malaysia has positioned itself as a global halal hub, attracting Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) food manufacturers and becoming a trusted source of halal products and services. However, developing a distinct Malaysia’s halal brand identity remains a challenge. This article explores the importance of developing a strong halal brand identity for the sustainability of Malaysia as a global halal hub. The study conducted in-depth interviews with eight identified respondents who were either chief executive officers, presidents of participating companies, or partners and directors of various government agencies at local and international branches. The study discusses successful halal brand identity campaigns undertaken by major global and regional brands, focusing on promoting halal values, ethical practices, and the benefits of halal products. To develop a strong halal brand identity, comprehensive marketing and communication strategies are recommended, utilising the effects theory to craft effective digital marketing strategies that resonate with Muslim consumers and promote ethical consumption.
Elite Malay Khamr Drinkers in Contemporary Malaysia: An Islamic Perspective
Authors:   Programme of Da’wah and Islamic Management, Faculty of Leadership and Management, Universiti Sains Islam Malaysia, Negeri Sembilan, Malaysia, Nik Abdul Majid Nik Suhaida
Published: November 2024

In the Malaysian context, the study of khamr has gained minimal attention, and there is a distinct lack of written literature on Malay drinkers, not to mention among the elite, while it remains an ongoing concern. Moreover, studies on khamr, according to the Islamic perspective are fundamentally based on fiqh (Islamic jurisprudence). Therefore, this study aims to contribute to the literature on khamr, specifically involving Malay drinkers in Malaysia, by analysing their pattern of behaviour and consolidating the sociological domain in the Islamic framework of the role of social agents and the fiqh of khamr. This study interviewed and applied direct observation of six informants to analyse the reasons that caused them to drink by examining their social background and highlighting the role of their social agents from the Islamic viewpoint. Findings reveal that the informants share common beliefs and values about khamr, recognising its prohibition to Muslims. However, they did not clearly understand the concept of prohibition, thus leading to many misunderstandings about the fiqh of khamr. The reasons for their drinking habits are influenced primarily by peer groups and the government, which did not comply with the shariah, thus leading them to be drinkers.
Features of changes in nonspecific factors of immunological reactivity in obesity
Authors: Dushina T. S. , Suplotov S. N. , Klyashev S. M. , Suplotova L. A.
Published: November 2024

Introduction. The study of pathogenetic factors of obesity is an urgent task of modern medicine. The formation of obesity is characterized by changes in the activity of individual mechanisms of innate immunity. At the same time, the values of laboratory indicators that characterize them are often within the current boundaries of the reference values of laboratory indicators of the immunity of a healthy person. This complicates the pathogenetic assessment of the mechanisms of nonspecific immunological reactivity in obesity and determines the need for further study of the characteristics of nonspecific immune defense factors in this pathology.

Aim. To identify the features of changes in cellular and humoral factors of nonspecific immunological reactivity in obesity.

Materials and methods. A single-center cross-sectional, one-time controlled study was conducted with the participation of 118 people, of which 87 people were obese patients (BMI 37.2 [34.1; 42.05] kg/m2), 31 people had normal body weight (BMI 21.9 [ 20.2; 23.5] kg/m2) and were included in the control group. All patients underwent a study of lipid profile (total cholesterol, high-density lipoproteins, low-density lipoproteins, very low-density lipoproteins, triglycerides), carbohydrate metabolism (glucose, insulin, glycated hemoglobin), C-reactive protein, indicators of cellular and humoral factors of nonspecific immunity (leukogram, cytokine profile, C3-C4 complement components).

Results. An increase in the total number of leukocytes was revealed, due to neutrophil granulocytes against the background of the development of a disproportion between the percentage and absolute value of the number of lymphocytes and monocytes, the concentration of C3 and C4 complement components, C-reactive protein, as well as an increase in the level of IL-6, which confirms the presence of low-grade chronic inflammation in obese patients. Statistically significant correlations of immunological parameters with anthropometric data, indicators of carbohydrate and lipid metabolism were revealed.

Conclusion. The results of the study indicate that obesity causes activation of certain cellular and humoral mechanisms of nonspecific immune defense involved in the formation of the inflammatory process. Confirmation of the presence of a latent inflammatory process in obesity is an increase in the level of leukocytes and their individual cellular forms, C-reactive protein, C3 and C4 complement components, IL-6. A feature of the changes is the presence of fluctuations in the values of the studied indicators within the current boundaries of the reference values of laboratory indicators, which makes it difficult to timely diagnose chronic inflammation in obesity
Semaglutide for the treatment of obesity: Results of two open randomized pharmacokinetic studies
Authors: Noskov S. M. , Arefeva A. N. , Banko V. V. , Radaeva К. S. , Gefen M. L. , Archakova O. A. , Karnakova P. K. , Vetrova E. S. , Karpova P. A. , Komarov T. N. , Shohin I. E.
Published: November 2024

Introduction. Obesity is a growing public health issue in Russia, increasing the risk of cardiovascular diseases, type 2 diabetes, and hypertension. Controlling obesity involves lifestyle changes and pharmacotherapy. Semaglutide, an effective obesity treatment, stimulates insulin production and reduces appetite. Developing a generic semaglutide preparation will improve its availability in Russia.

Aim. To study the comparative pharmacokinetics, bioequivalence, safety and tolerability of semaglutide products GP40331 and Wegovy using concentrations of 0.68 and 3.2 mg/ml in healthy volunteers under fasting conditions.

Materials and methods. Bioequivalence studies, conducted per Good Clinical Practice, were open-label, randomized, and involved healthy male volunteers. Subjects received semaglutide at single doses of 0.25 mg (0.68 mg/ml) and 0.5 mg (3.2 mg/ml) under fasting. Bioequivalence was determined by the 90% CI of the ratios of geometric mean values of the primary pharmacokinetic parameters (AUC0-t, Cmax). Semaglutide concentrations were measured using high-performance liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry.

Results. The 90% CI values for the ratios of geometric means of the primary PK parameters of semaglutide were 90.22–110.29 and 86.48–108.98% (0.68 mg/ml) and 90.62–115.71 and 92.86–113.51% (3.2 mg/ml). Comparable safety was proven for both concentrations.

Conclusion. GP40331 and Wegovy at 0.68 and 3.2 mg/mL are bioequivalent and equally safe.
Formation of structural and functional changes in the myocardium in individuals with different metabolic phenotypes: A literature review
Authors: Postoeva A. V. , Mirolyubova O. A. , Dvoryashina I. V.
Published: November 2024

Cardiovascular mortality still takes leading places among causes of mortality from different disease in developed countries including Russian Federation. Influence of adipose tissue excess on myocardium is widely discussed in scientific literature. The concept of metabolic phenotypes was suggested as a new way for study of impact of obesity and concomitant metabolic disorders in to the risk of cardiovascular diseases and mortality from them. In this review we discussed the accumulated experience of the Russian and international trials about structural and functional characteristics of myocardium described with various instrumental methods of diagnosis. Special attention is focused on the description of echocardiography as the most available visualizing method, actual diagnostic criteria of disturbances are provided according to Russian and international guidelines. Features and methods of diagnosis of diastolic dysfunction and cardiac remodeling in terms of heart failure with preserved ejection fraction in people with various metabolic phenotypes are discussed. The majority of authors declare the absence of evident decrease of systolic function, as a result the estimation of diastolic dysfunction is very actual. Issues connected to historical transformation of the term obesity paradox and obese cardiopathy, myocardial fat ectopy are covered. The results of experimental and morphological studies present the facts about different impact of adipose tissue and metabolic disorders to development changes in myocardium.
Ejection fraction assessment and left ventricular contractile function: How accurate is this parameter?
Authors: Gvozdeva A. D. , Zakiev V. D. , Gilyarevskiy S. R.
Published: November 2024

Evaluation of the left ventricular (LV) ejection fraction (EF) is a key component for diagnosis and treatment of heart failure (HF). Echocardiography is commonly used to assess LV systolic function and LV EF due to its simplicity and availability. However, it has some limitations, including interand intra-observer variability, dependence on the quality of visualization, etc. HF trials showed that there are some differences in the HF therapy effectiveness depending on the value of LV EF. These results suggest that basic therapy for HF and reduced LVEF is also effective in HF and preserved LVEF if patients have impairment of not only diastolic but also systolic function. Thus, LVEF may not be a reliable parameter to guide treatment decisions andit is necessary to introduce additional markers into clinical practice to assess LV systolic function. The purpose of this review is to discuss the difficulties of assessing LV systolic function using echocardiography and the possibilities of using alternative diagnostic methods, in particular myocardial deformation (speckle tracking echocardiography).
Pathogenetic relationship of microbiome and metabolic disorders on the background of hypertension and gout: Potential targets of pharmacotherapy
Authors: Sinyushkina S. D. , Gorinova A. V. , Belousova A. S. , Sorokina Yu. A. , Zanozina O. V.
Published: November 2024

Cardiometabolic diseases are one of the urgent problems of modern medicine. Currently, much attention is being paid to the study of the common pathogenesis of diabetes mellitus, gout and hypertension. One of the pharmacological targets is the correction of the intestinal microbiome and dysbiosis, as an integral link in the development of systemic inflammation and endotoxinemia, leading to the development of these pathologies. The article presents the results of scientific research devoted to the study of the effect of the intestinal microbiome on the development of cardiometabolic diseases. The main goal of the research is to find a rational pharmacological therapy of intestinal dysbiosis for the treatment of comorbid patients. It has been proved that, together with standard drug therapy, taking into account the pathogenetic features of the development of cardiometabolic diseases, it is advisable to use drugs that affect the intestinal microbiome. The main classical approach is the use of probiotic drugs containing live bacteria. The use of probiotics in combination with probiotic drugs to support the growth of intestinal normoflora has become a promising direction. However, this approach requires a long period of correction of the microflora, which prompted the idea of using postbiotics – signaling molecules – products of the vital activity of the microflora for a more targeted and rapid effect on pathological processes, both in the intestine and on the organ system as a whole. This approach promotes the beginning of the development of synbiotics, a complex of microorganisms, growth factors and metabolites that made it possible to more effectively influence on dysbiotic processes in various pathologies, including dyslipidemia and cardiovascular diseases. Correction of intestinal barrier permeability disorders will help prevent the development of systemic complications associated with chronic pathologies. The article also presents the author’s scheme of the pathogenesis of cardiometabolic diseases, based on the study of current scientific research.
Vector of glycated hemoglobin in the formation of dysglycemia in postmenopause: Emphasis on early diagnosis and therapy
Authors: Ruyatkina L. A. , Ruyatkin D. S. , Shcherbakova L. V. , Iskhakova I. S.
Published: November 2024

Introduction. The close relationship of postmenopause with insulin resistance (IR) and metabolic syndrome (MetS) marks a high cardiometabolic risk of dysglycemia, determining the need for its early diagnosis and therapy. Pathogenetically substantiated criteria for the diagnosis of prediabetes and the nature of early drug therapy for type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) are debated. Information on the relationship between glucose homeostasis parameters and menopausal MetS is fragmentary.

Aim. To evaluate the associations of glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) levels with indices of IR, β-cell function and MetS character- istics in a cohort of postmenopausal women with different carbohydrate metabolic states.

Materials and methods. In 94 Caucasian postmenopausal women 58.0 (53.0; 63.0) years old the following were determined: HbA1c, fasting glycemia (FG), TyG and HOMA2 indices, C-peptid, BMI, waist circumference (WC), blood pressure (BP), triglycerides (TG), HDL-C levels. When classifying women by HbA1c (ADA criteria), 15 had normoglycemia, 24 prediabetes, 55 T2DM. ME (25–75%) was assessed using SPSS (version 17); intergroup differences according to the Mann – Whitney test; Spearman and partial correlation analysis were performed.

Results. HbA1c age independently correlated with IR parameters: TyG (R = 0.590; p < 0.001), HOMA2-IR (R = 0.318; p < 0.05) and beta cell function: HOMA2-B (R = -0.355; p < 0.001); with lipid markers of MetS (TG, HDL-C, respectively R = 0.382; -0.448; p < 0.001), anthropometric and blood pressure levels.

Conclusion. Associations of HbA1c in postmenopausal women with a spectrum of glucose homeostasis parameters and MetS mark it as a vector of formation and progression of dysglycemia due to a close connection with the functional state of β-cells and the importance of lipoglucotoxicity in the dynamics of postmenopausal IR. The obtained data pathogenetically determine the use of HbA1c in the verification of dysglycemia and the early administration of combined antihyperglycemic therapy aimed at preserving β-cell function. The potential of dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors in slowing the progression of type 2 diabetes mellitus is considered
Comparative study of the neuroprotective potential of semaglutide injectable preparations in experimental ischemic stroke
Authors: Karonova T. L. , Murasheva A. V. , Timkina N. V. , Fuks O. S. , Shlyakhto E. V.
Published: November 2024

Introduction. Stroke remains one of the major causes of death in type diabetes mellitus (DM). Injectable form of glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist semaglutide, Ozempic® decreases the stroke risk. In Russia there appeared a biosimilar Semavic® but its effects on the brain are not yet studied.

Aim. To compare neuroprotective properties of Semavic® and Ozempic® while used before ischemic stroke in rats without DM.

Materials and methods. The study was conducted in male Wistar rats that were divided into the following groups: “Control” (n = 10) – 0.9% NaCl, “MET” (n = 9) – metformin 200 mg/kg once daily per os, “Ozempic” (n = 10) – Ozempic® 0.012 mg/kg s.c. once daily, “Semavic” (n = 9) – Semavic® 0.012 mg/kg s.c. once daily. After 7 days ischemic stroke was modelled, after 48 hour of reperfusion neurological deficit and brain damage volume were evaluated. Glycemia was measured on the 3rd, 7th days as well as during and after ischemia.

Results. None of the study drugs caused hypoglycemia including in poststroke period. Neurological deficit in “MET” group did not differ from that in the “Control” (11.00 [6.50; 12.50] and 10.0 [6.25; 12.00] scores). Both semaglutide drugs caused comparable improvement in neurological status (14.00 [12.00; 18.00] and 14.00 [11.00; 18.00] scores in “Ozempic” and “Semavic” groups). Brain necrosis volume in “Control” group was 16.60 [13.40; 28.58] %. All the study drugs had infarct-limiting effect but brain damage volume in “Ozempic” (6.00 [4.32; 8.44] %) and “Semavic” (7.69 [2.99; 11.33] %) was smaller than in “MET” group (13.07 [8.67; 29.94] %). There were no differences between semaglutide drugs.

Conclusions. Biosimilar Semavic® and original Ozempic® demonstrate comparable neuroprotective effect while used in animals without DM prior to ischemic stroke modelling. This protective effect is not due to the drugs’ influence on glycemic profile.
Adverse cardiological and neurological reactions associated with air traffic and the possibility of their pharmacological correction
Authors: Trukhan D. I. , Ivanova D. S.
Published: November 2024

Air transport may provoke or aggravate a medical event in a passenger with concomitant medical problems. We searched the PubMed and Scopus databases for the period up to 08/29/2024 for sources that examined the impact of air travel on human health. There are 2 main categories of stressors associated with air travel and affecting the body, generally divided into:

(1) psychological and physical stressors and (2) physiological Possible changes in health associated with air travel can be divided into functional, mostly reversible, and organic: (1) exacerbation/decompensation of existing somatic pathology;

(2) development of pathological conditions de novo, for which possible stressors can serve as a trigger, directly or sequentially as a result of the previous development and progression of functional disorders. The literature focuses on safety issues during air travel for patients with existing cardiovascular pathology. Adverse functional cardiological and neurological reactions and their pharmacological correction have been less studied. Fear of flying and phobia of flying are very common among the general population and can lead to significant stress. For situational correction of reactions to everyday stressful events, it is possible to use drugs with anxiolytic action of a non-benzodiazepine This group includes the drug Valocordin®, the action of which is aimed at various manifestations of stress, anxiety states, autonomic dysfunction, increased excitability and irritability, mild sleep disorders. In case of pre-flight anxiety and fear, taking Valocordin® (depending on the situation or in a short course) can be the drug of choice for both the air traveler and his relatives seeing him off/meeting him.