bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Objective evaluation of the pharyngoesophageal segment as a source of substitute phonation in patients after total laryngectomy
Authors: Daikhes N. A. , Reshulskiy S. S. , Isaeva M. L. , Vinogradov V. V.
Published: January 2024

The study aimed to identify objective predictors of the successful voice rehabilitation after total laryngectomy to select the optimal method of voice restoration.

Material and Methods. The study included 60 laryngectomized male patients who were stratified into 2 equal groups depending on the patient’s choice of voice restoration: tracheoesophageal puncture or esophageal voice. A comprehensive assessment of the qualitative and quantitative parameters of the pharyngoesophageal segment was carried out using the diagnostic procedures, such as: fiberoptic endoscopic evaluation of swallowing, high-speed video endoscopy, and high-resolution pharyngoesophageal manometry. The results of examination of the pharyngoesophageal segment were compared with the results of voice rehabilitation.

Results. A significant difference in the resting pressure in the pharyngoesophageal segment between patients with successful and unsuccessful voice rehabilitation was found. The resting pressure in the pharyngoesophageal segment was higher in patients with unsuccessful voice rehabilitation than in patients with successful voice rehabilitation. Among patients with failed voice rehabilitation, 64 % had pseudodiverticula, 25 % had cicatricial strictures and 11 % had pharyngospasm. Pseudodiverticula were found only in patients who underwent vertical or apparatus pharyngeal closure. We described vibrating patterns of substitute phonation in laryngectomized patients and identified 5 different types of pseudoglottis. No significant differences between the methods of substitute phonation were found.

Conclusion. The state of pharyngoesophageal segment is an objective predictor of successful substitute phonation and depends on the surgical technique of pharyngeal closure, the volume of cancer treatment and the course of the postoperative period. A comprehensive assessment of the qualitative and quantitative parameters of the pharyngoesophageal segment using fiberendoscopic, fuoroscopic studies and highresolution pharyngoesophageal manometry allows prediction of voice rehabilitation outcomes.
Changes in left ventricular systolic and diastolic function after chemotherapy for breast cancer with doxorubicin
Authors: Karput I. A. , Snezhitskii V. A. , Kurbat M. N. , Gorustovich V. A. , Karpovich Yu. I. , Rubinskii A. Yu. , Smirnova T. A. , Babenka A. S.
Published: January 2024

Introduction. Detection of the cardiotoxic effect during chemotherapy (CT) for malignant neoplasms is one of the most important tasks of a practicing physician. Purpose: to study changes in left ventricular systolic and diastolic function using echocardiography (EchoCG) during chemotherapy with doxorubicin in patients with primary breast cancer (BC) and to identify potential markers of early cardiotoxicity (CT).

Material and Methods. The study included 100 patients with a confirmed diagnosis of breast cancer who were treated at the health care institution “Grodno University Clinic” (Grodno, Belarus).

Results. In the study sample, a number of EchoCG parameters were measured before and after chemotherapy in 100 patients with breast cancer. Depending on the choice of the threshold level of relative reduction in global longitudinal strain (GLS) in %, different median values were recorded in the subgroups with and without CT (before and after chemotherapy). Data are presented on the difference in the relative dynamics of EchoCG indicators in % between the subgroups with CT and without CT, which shows how large the differences between the subgroups are in % after the end of chemotherapy. Against the background of the absence of statistically significant differences, trends towards an increase or decrease in indicators were recorded, which can characterize them as potential CT markers.

Conclusion. We hypothesize that indexed end-systolic volume, indexed end-diastolic volume, early diastolic peak velocity of lateral mitral annulus motion may be considered as potential CT markers in the subclinical stage along with GLS; if it is impossible to measure a relative decrease in GLS, these indicators collectively may indicate the development of a CT effect at the subclinical stage. When diagnosing a relative decrease in the GLS index by less than 15 %, but by more than 10 %, we propose to consider the indexed end-systolic volume index as a marker of the early CT effect if its increase after the end of chemotherapy is recorded by 10 % or more, respectively.
Non-invasive diagnosis of upper airway malignancies based on the analysis of markers in exhaled air
Authors: Kulbakin D. E. , Choynzonov E. L. , Fedorova I. K. , Obkhodskaya E. V. , Obkhodskiy A. V. , Rodionov E. O. , Sachkov V. I. , Chernov V. I.
Published: January 2024

The purpose of the study was to evaluate diagnostic capabilities of the gas analysis sensor device used for the study of exhaled gas samples obtained from patients with oropharyngeal and laryngeal cancers.

Material and Methods. Exhaled gas samples from 31 oropharyngeal and laryngeal cancer patients and 31 healthy volunteers were studied using a diagnostic device based on the detection of volatile compounds in inhaled air using semiconductor gas sensors with subsequent neural network analysis.

Results. Based on the signals from gas sensors, the neural network classified and identified patients with malignant neoplasms. The sensitivity and specificity of the method were 67.74% and 87.1%, respectively.

Conclusion. The gas analysis sensor device and the method for detecting oropharyngeal and laryngeal tumors using the exhaled gas analysis are an accessible and cheap diagnostic tools, and are promising for screening the population in order to select individuals for a comprehensive examination (endoscopic, radiological and morphological) in identifying suspicion of cancer.
BRCA1/2 mutation spectrum in Armenian patients with breast and ovarian cancers
Authors: Belysheva Y. V. , Bakaeva E. K. , Venina A. R. , Romanko A. A. , Raskin G. A. , Sokolenko A. P. , Suspitsin E. N. , Avetisyan A. A. , Orlov S. V. , Imyanitov E. N.
Published: January 2024

The aim of the study was to compare the spectra of pathogenic BRCA1 and BRCA2 variants in patients with hereditary breast cancer (BC) and ovarian cancer (OC) from two groups of ethnic Armenians: Yerevan and cities of southern Russia.

Material and Methods. 106 BC patients from the V.A. Fanardjian National Centre of Oncology (Yerevan, Republic of Armenia) and 117 BC and OC patients of Armenian origin who were referred to the Petrov National Medical Centre of Oncology (St. Petersburg, Russia) from several cancer centers of Russia (Krasnodar, Sochi, Pyatigorsk) were included into the study. The coding sequences of BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes were analyzed by the method of targeted high-throughput sequencing.

Results. Pathogenic variants of BCRA1 and BCRA2 genes were detected in 16/106 (BRCA1: n=9, BRCA2: n=7; 15%) BC patients from Yerevan. The only recurrent mutation was the BRCA1 nonsense variant c.5444G>A [W1815X], accounting for 44% of all pathogenic alleles identified. In patients of Armenian origin from Russia, pathogenic BRCA1/2 variants were detected in 16/117 (14%) individuals (BRCA1: n=6, BRCA2: n=10). The proportion of samples with mutations was 13% in the group of BC patients and 19% in the group of OC patients. 75% of pathogenic alleles were represented by five recurrent mutations: BRCA1 c.2649_2650insGGCA, BRCA2 c.2808_2808_2811delACAA, BRCA1 c.4065_4068delTCAA, BRCA2 c.9027delT and BRCA2 c.8437G>T [G2813X]. The independent origin of the pathogenic BRCA2 c.2808_2808_2811delACAA variant in Armenian and non-Armenian patients was shown.

Conclusion. A significant difference in the spectrum of BRCA1/2 mutations between Armenian patients from Yerevan and patients from southern regions of Russia was found. This should be taken into account when developing diagnostic programs.
Narratives from NESTs: Pedagogical insights from Communication Skills Teaching
Authors:   British And American Language And Literature Association Of Korea, Kim Youngin , Kim Gyumi
Published: January 2024

This research delved into how the viewpoints and teaching philosophies of native English-speaking teachers (NESTs) influence their unique teaching methods and the broader consequences that arise from their practical teaching experiences. The study involved three educators—Dick, Anne, and Sam—currently working at different universities. These instructors brought their distinct personal and educational backgrounds to the research. Employing a qualitative case study approach, the data collection spanned nearly a year, covering the duration of 2020. Various techniques, including surveys, interviews, email correspondences, and classroom observations, were employed to gather data. The collected information underwent analysis using the constant comparison method and coding techniques, revealing significant themes within individual cases and across cases: defined roles of NESTs; pedagogical approaches; assessment; feedback; and guidance for learning English.
Innovation Bootcamp — A Flexible Framework Matching Cohort Needs with Targeted Training for Improved Representation in Entrepreneurial Programs
Authors: Leach Crystal S. , Burg Karen J.L.
Published: January 2024

The University of Georgia's (UGA) Innovation Bootcamp is an intensive entrepreneurship training program designed to increase participation by under-represented groups in an already established innovation ecosystem. Ultimately, the goal is to diversify the innovation ecosystem. The eight-week
Innovation Bootcamp program, piloted in the fall of 2019 with female faculty, staff, and graduate students, was developed as a focused program with a flexible, three-pronged approach that can be tailored to any target cohort. The foundational element of basic commercialization training is
consistent for all groups, while the elements of skill building and community building are tailored to the specific needs of the target cohort. The program does not aim to build an alternate ecosystem for under-represented groups but, instead, provides a customized bridge of training and support
to increase their participation and ultimate success in existing entrepreneurship programs, such as the National Science Foundation Innovation Corps. Based on the success of the initial pilot cohorts and the experience with women innovators, the Innovation Bootcamp has become a cornerstone
program of UGA's Innovation District initiative. It is now offered twice per year and engages and supports a variety of cohorts. This tailored and cohort-specific approach is viewed as critical to building an innovation ecosystem that truly represents the diversity of the campus and the community.
This manuscript details the bootcamp framework and the progress of the initial three cohorts, a total of fifty-six women. The outcomes have informed further innovation programming and led to an appreciation of the need for nuanced program delivery.
The Intersections of Innovation
Authors: Ozkan Mihrimah , Krishnaswamy Kiruba , Walsh Jay
Published: January 2024

To unlock the power of creativity and innovation, it is very important to engage the entire in- novation ecosystem so that the full potential can be unveiled. These collaborative intersectional spaces between different disciplines — academia-industry, faculty-administration, and
faculty-students — can open new dimensions for creative excellence, and thus, such intersectional spaces need to be created and nurtured. To this end, here, the pillars of innovation: creativity, motivation, ecosystem, and support, are discussed and their impacts on generating innovations
are presented. While existing challenges in the academic setting are acknowledged, the role of faculty and the technology transfer offices and their positive interactions have a very critical role in the success of generating impactful innovations and their transfer to commercialization. In
addition to the pillars of innovation, diversity, equity, inclusion, and justice are crucial components for creating impactful and sustainable innovations. Embracing diversity in all its forms, providing equitable opportunities for all, fostering an inclusive environment, and ensuring justice
for all members of the ecosystem can lead to a broad range of perspectives and ideas, ultimately resulting in more creative and impactful solutions to the current and future challenges of the 21st century.
The sociological dimension of media interactions: current state and author's design of the study
Authors: Andriyanova T. V.
Published: January 2024

In the research of modern digital society, interaction through various channels and media is increasingly coming to the fore as a “|gaining momentum” trend of social development. Meanwhile, despite the abundance of empirical data in this area, the scientific understanding of interactions understood as media is in the process of formation, which is especially noticeable from the point of view of sociological discourse. It thoroughly represents the interactions of the traditional type, that is, social, in the works of E. Durkheim, M. Weber, G. Simmel, T. Parsons, J. Homans, J. Mead, P. Bourdieu and other classics of sociological thought. The Russian sociological science, starting with P.A. Sorokin and up to the present day, in which interactions form the essence of all social processes, does not stand aside either. Actually, media interactions have been considered by foreign sociologists since the 70s of the twentieth century, in line with the interaction of the audience with the media and social networks (J. Nordlund, P. Robinson, J. Blommaert). The paper is intended to represent the author’s vision media interactions studies design and is based sociolinguistic and socio- communication approaches allowing to most accurately identify essence of these processes.
Analysis of factors influencing intention to purchase halal Japanese food: The moderating role of religiosity
Authors: El Ashfahany Afief , Khansa Farrahvanaya Shafiyya , Subhi Apriantoro Muhamad , Suharjianto
Published: January 2024

The purpose of this study is to investigate the factors affecting the desire to purchase halal Japanese cuisine using the theory of planned behavior and religiosity as a moderator. The study employs the structural equation modeling partial least square (SEM PLS) method to analyze data obtained from questionnaires administered to 202 Muslim consumers at halal Japanese restaurants (Ramen Ya, Marugame Udon, and Sushi Tei). The findings demonstrate that attitudes (β = 0.228, p = 0.074), subjective norms (β = 0.198, p = 0.076), perceived behavioral control (β = 0.133, p = 0.035), and religiosity (β = 0.459, p = 0.000) significantly affect the intention to buy Japanese food labeled halal. In addition, halal awareness (β = 0.593, p = 0.000) and religiosity (β = 0.227, p = 0.039) also have a significant positive effect on attitude. However, the presence of religiosity does not significantly moderate the relationship between attitude, subjective norm, and perceived behavioral control towards purchase intention. Although religiosity does not act as a moderator, the outcomes of this analysis are expected to be useful for the Japanese halal cuisine sector, notably in countries with a majority Muslim population, to consider religiosity as an essential factor in increasing purchase intention.
Acknowledgment The authors received financial support for the research, authorship, and publication of this article from Universitas Muhammadiyah Surakarta, Indonesia, under the Integration Research Grant Program (HIT).
MESLEKİ MÜZİK EĞİTİMİ ALAN ÖĞRENCİLERİN “MÜZİK DİNLEME ALIŞKANLIKLARI” ÜZERİNE GÖRÜŞLERİNİN DEĞERLENDİRİLMESİ
Authors: AKSOY Yeşim Naz , ALICI Sezin
Published: January 2024

Bu araştırmada, Bursa Uludağ Üniversitesi Müzik Eğitimi Ana Bilim Dalında öğrenim gören öğrencilerin müzik dinleme alışkanlıklarını tespit etmek, müzik dinlemenin teorik ve çalgı derslerine olan etkilerini değerlendirmek ve bu alışkanlıkları geliştirecek, daha bilinçli ve etkili hâle getirecek öneriler sunmak amaçlanmıştır. Çalışmada nitel araştırma yöntemlerinden biri olan durum çalışması yöntemi kullanılmıştır. Verileri elde etmek amacıyla araştırmacılar tarafından hazırlanmış 20 sorudan oluşan yarı yapılandırılmış görüşme formu hazırlanmıştır. Araştırmanın çalışma grubu; Bursa Uludağ Üniversitesi Müzik Öğretmenliği Bölümünde öğrenim gören 10 kadın, 10 erkek toplamda 20 öğrenciden oluşmaktadır. Çalışmadan elde edilen sonuçlar betimsel analiz yöntemi kullanılarak analiz edilmiş ve 5 tema, 15 alt tema, 67 koda ulaşılmıştır. Bu çalışma sonucunda müzik öğretmenliği adaylarının müzik dinleme alışkanlıklarının yeterli ve bilinçli olup olmadığı tespit edilecek ve adaylara müzik dinleme alışkanlığı kazandıracak etkinlikler ve yöntemler sunularak daha kültürlü ve donanımlı müzik öğretmenlerinin yetiştirilmesi hedeflenecektir.
Nanobiohybrids for pollution control and resource recovery
Authors: Kumari P. , Kumari R. , Prabhakar R. , Samadder S. R.
Published: January 2024

The rapid growth of human population, industrialization, and urbanization has led to an increase in pollution and resource depletion. This has created a need for highly efficient pollution abatement technologies and resource recovery methods. While there are already pre-existing techniques for both pollution abatement and resource recovery, they are often costly, involving the use of harmful chemicals, generating unsafe by-products, and are slow. On the other hand, nanobiohybrids (NBHs) have emerged as promising approaches with substantial benefits over traditional approaches and have gained global recognition in recent decades. The integration of functional nanomaterials with living systems has given rise to this fascinating area of study, which lies at the intersection of materials engineering and biological science. These NBHs have the ability to remove pollutants and recover resources from different sources. This chapter provides an overview of the potential application of NBHs in different types of pollution control and resource recovery techniques from various sources. Different NBHs have so far been extensively studied and successfully applied in the removal of pollutants from water and wastewater but their application in soil and air as well as in resource recovery is still incipient. Thus, the limitations and challenges of using NBHs have been identified and discussed in this chapter as well. The findings in this chapter provide new insights and future prospects for further research and development for the wider applicability of NBHs.
Photoelectrocatalysis and nanohybrids in wastewater treatment
Authors: Sharma Sweta , Devi Pooja
Published: January 2024

The rise in global industrialization, urbanization, and population growth has contributed to a significant increase in the production of large volumes of wastewater. The inadequate management of this valuable resource, rich in energy and minerals, has emerged as a worldwide concern. While conventional methods for treating wastewater are somewhat effective, they struggle to address persistent pollutants such as pesticides, textile dyes, pharmaceuticals, and personal care products. To tackle these challenges, there is a need for innovative solutions. Advanced oxidation processes (AOPs) present a promising alternative for breaking down these complex organic pollutants that are resistant to traditional chemical oxidants. Among these AOPs, photoelectrocatalysis (PEC) stands out because it not only effectively degrades pollutants, but it also offers the potential to harness energy from wastewater. This chapter discusses PEC, exploring its recent advancements, particularly focusing on the application of nanohybrids as photoelectrodes for enhancing wastewater treatment efficiency.
Proyectos productivos como vía de empoderamiento de las mujeres indígenas en el desarrollo comunitario en San Pedro La Laguna, Sololá, Guatemala
Authors: Torres Janet Rodríguez , Vázquez Solís Valente , Costero Garbarino María Cecilia
Published: January 2024

La implementación de proyectos productivos en comunidades indígenas en el contexto latinoamericano surge ante la necesidad de impulsar la economía, aumentar ingresos, generar empleos y, específicamente en aquellos enfocados a las mujeres, favorecer la visibilidad y la participación de estas dentro de la comunidad. En el presente artículo se identifican los factores detonantes del empoderamiento femenino en una comunidad indígena guatemalteca. En un principio se discuten los conceptos teóricos; posteriormente, a través del estudio de caso de San Pedro La Laguna, Sololá, se explica el origen de este proceso a partir de la modificación de los roles de género. Por último, con base en el trabajo de campo realizado, se analizan los factores que lo condicionan y la manera en que se manifiesta en el sentido colectivo. Se parte de la premisa de que la conformación de asociaciones de mujeres incrementa la participación de estas en proyectos productivos y contribuye exitosamente al empoderamiento colectivo, lo cual favorece el desarrollo comunitario.
Bliski Wschód na drodze do wojny. Polityczne i kulturowe uwarunkowania zmiany wektorów irańskiej polityki za
Authors: Sińczak Tomasz
Published: January 2024

Relacje między Cesarstwem Rzymskim a Iranem Sasanidów w V wieku były w dużej mierze wypadkową uregulowania spraw spornych i współpracy wobec zagrożenia, które wynikało z posunięć agresywnych społeczności nomadów. Wielki wpływ na politykę wewnętrzną, a później również zewnętrzną, Iranu Sasanidów mieli koczownicy z terenów Azji Środkowej, a szczególnie opisywani w niniejszym tekście Heftalici, których oddziaływanie na Sasanidów doprowadziło finalnie do przeorientowania się sasanidzkiej polityki zagranicznej na zachód, co zaowocowało wybuchem nowej wielkiej wojny na Bliskim Wschodzie.
Unveiling the ripple effect: how human activities reshape ecosystems
Authors:   Jahangirnagar University, Hoque Majedul
Published: January 2024

Ecosystems encompass a dynamic web of interactions between living organisms and their environment. This network includes everything from the smallest microorganisms to the largest mammals and landscape. Ecosystems provide vital services, such as clean air, water, nutrients, climate regulation, and other related things. However, human activities have significantly impacted these systems, leading to habitat destruction, species extinction and disruption in delicate ecological balances. Human population growth increased the conversion of natural ecosystems for agricultural, industrial, and residential purposes, as well as the demand for ecosystem inputs like freshwater, fibre, and soil fertility. It also placed strain on the ability of natural ecosystems to sustain human populations. Growing agricultural, engaging in illicit fishing and hunting, and unplanned activities greatly impacted it. Future generations may face risk of starvation, thirst, illness, and catastrophe if we continue to lose biodiversity. It directly and indirectly contributes to many aspects of human life, such as security, the necessities for a happy life, health, positive social interactions, and the freedom to make decisions and take action. The article focused on the effects of human activity on ecosystems and evaluated how well-managed processes contribute to habitat conservation, in order to better understand the importance of ecosystems on living beings in this planet.
A review on evaluation of textile waste for ethanol extraction
Authors:   National Research and Development Institute for Industrial Ecology, Serbanescu Cristian , Tanase Gheorghita ,   National Research and Development Institute for Industrial Ecology
Published: January 2024

Today, the growth in textile consumption is influenced by the increasing population. This leads to the generation of a large volume of textile waste, which has a negative impact on the environment. Textile waste is mainly disposed of by landfill or incineration. To reduce the amount of textile waste disposed of, it can be recovered and transformed into valuable compounds, such as ethanol (bioethanol). This article describes how pre- and post-consumer textile waste is used as a feedstock for ethanol.
Green synthesis, characterization, antimicrobial studies of NiO nanoparticles and enhanced photocatalytic degradation of organic pollutant
Authors:   Department of Chemistry & Research Centre, Scott Christian College (Autonomous), Nagercoil, Tamilnadu, India, Indhu Kalyanasundaram , Celin Thangadurai Sumitha ,   Department of Chemistry & Research Centre, Scott Christian College (Autonomous), Nagercoil, Tamilnadu, India, Raj George Allen Gnana
Published: January 2024

Nanoparticles differ significantly from their bulk counterparts in terms of their characteristics, and they have a wide range of scientific uses. The use of green nanoparticles has received considerable attention. Recent advances in green nanomaterial production have made it possible to utilize these materials in catalysis. Many techniques have been applied to treat the textile wastewater. In the current study, Alizarin Red S dye is photocatalytically degraded utilizing green synthesized NiO nanoparticles derived from green tea extract. Utilizing techniques such as FT-IR, UV-Visible spectroscopy, EDAX, SEM, and XRD, the synthesized nanoparticles were examined. The morphology of the nanoparticle was studied using the SEM images. The XRD analysis was used to find the size of the crystal. The formula developed by Debye Scherer was used to determine the crystallite size. It was seen that the crystallite size was 29.75 nm. Using EDAX, the existence of Ni was verified. FT-IR analysis was used to find the functional groups present in the nanoparticle. According to morphological research, the nanoparticles are flake-shaped and have a larger surface area. Systematically the impact of many parameters on dye degradation, including catalyst dosage, dye concentration, and pH was examined. The findings showed that NiO can be used as a good nanocatalyst to degrade organic dyes. The kinetics of photodegradation were studied. Antibacterial and antifungal activities carried out on the synthesized nanoparticle and the precursor green tea show that they have good activity over bacteria and fungi. The right selection of operating conditions allows to degradation the pollutants effectively.
Nile red staining of polyethylene and polystyrene in Daphnia magna tests
Authors:   National Research and Development Institute for Industrial Ecology, Gheorghe Stefania , Stoica Catalina ,   National Research and Development Institute for Industrial Ecology, Harabagiu Anca Maria ,   National Research and Development Institute for Industrial Ecology
Published: January 2024

Microplastics pollution represents a stringent global issue. Their accumulation in the aquatic environment remains complicated due to the abundance, distribution, and resulting environmental effects they induce. Recently, assessing the toxicity level of aquatic organisms has gained scientific interest. Due to the diverse types and sizes of polymers present in the environment, the detection and evaluation of their effects are still a challenging issue. Polyethylene (PE) and polystyrene (PS) are the most commonly used polymers and are therefore predominantly detected in both marine and freshwater aquatic environments. This paper aims to evaluate the effects of Red Nile-stained PE and PS, tested in different particle sizes (PE 40-48, 125, >125 µm, and PS 20, 200, 430 µm) on Daphnia magna, and highlight them through microscopic analysis. Acute toxicity tests conducted over a 48-hours exposure did not reveal significant toxicity effects in terms of mortalities compared to the controls. Red Nile staining allowed the visualization of the shapes and sizes of the tested microplastics and their entry pathways into the Daphnia bodies. PS of 20 µm size was detected in the digestive tract of Daphnia, indicating as primary pathway of entry into the body of aquatic organisms. No acute toxic effects were recorded as a result of direct exposure to PE and PS particles. However, sub-lethal effects such as feeding and growth disturbances, which could affect organisms in the long term, are suspected.
Waste management regulatory framework in the circular economy context
Authors:   Institute of Research for Agriculture Economy and Rural Development, Pop Ruxandra Eugenia , Rodino Steliana ,   National Institute of Research and Development for Biological Sciences
Published: January 2024

One of the main challenges regarding the transition to a circular economy at the European level is waste management and achieving specific objectives. By 2025, the recycling and reuse rate of municipal waste should reach 55% and the total volume of recycled packaging 65%, according to European Directives (Waste Directive 05/07/2018). Statistical data and EEA reports are not encouraging: most European countries will not be able to reach these targets until 2025. The current work aims to analyze European legislation regarding waste management but also the national transposition measures communicated by the Member States. The reference statistical data regarding the efficiency of waste management, are also analyzed, at the member states level and at national level, to determine to what extent Romania has reached the targets set by the European Commission regarding waste management, depending on the specific time horizon set by the reference legislative policies.
In-silico Binding, Stability, Pharmacokinetics, and Toxicity Studies on
Natural (-)-ambrox Metabolites as Binding Ligands to Luminal B and
Triple-negative/basal-like Proteins for Breast Cancer Therapy
Authors: Haikal Abdullah , Thangavel Neelaveni , Albratty Mohammed , Najmi Asim , Al Hazmi Hassan Ahmed , Sivadasan Durgaramani , Khuwaja Gulrana , Shamkh Israa M.
Published: January 2024

Background:

Breast cancer is the most prevalent malignant tumour in women of all races
and is the second largest cause of cancer-related death in the majority of races. Based on the pattern
of gene expression, five intrinsic or molecular classifications for breast tumours are frequently used.
Our research, which is presently being utilized to treat breast cancer and has the potential to significantly
change the course of the illness, is focused on two of them: luminal B breast cancer and triplenegative/
basal-like breast cancer.

Methods:

Screening a database containing millions of drug molecules or phytochemicals has become
rapid and simple due to computer-aided drug design (CADD) techniques. In the current work, nine
natural compounds were screened for ambrox from a sperm whale using docking research.

Results:

Following docking studies, nine substances were discovered to interact with basal-like and
luminal B breast cancer proteins. All nine metabolites, however, adhered to Lipinski's rule of five
and had sufficient oral bioavailability. The greatest binding affinities were demonstrated by
13,14,15,16-tetranorlabdane-3-oxo-8,12-diol, 6-β-hydroxy ambrox, 1-α-hydroxy-3-oxoambrox, and
2-α-3-β-dihydroxy ambrox.

Conclusion:

Therefore, it can be concluded that research on molecular docking and pharmacological
mimics may hasten the discovery of new medications. The use of ambrox metabolites in the treatment
of breast cancer also requires future perspectives on their therapeutic use.
Exploring the Molecular Mechanisms of Astragalus membranaceus in
Treating Pre-eclampsia using Network Pharmacology and Molecular
Docking
Authors: Zhong Jing , Lan Liubing
Published: January 2024

Background:

Pre-eclampsia (PE) is a pregnancy-related complication that has a global
prevalence of 3-5% among pregnant women.

Objective:

The objective of this study is to examine the molecular mechanism underlying the therapeutic
effects of Astragalus membranaceus (AE) in the treatment of PE through the application of
network pharmacology and molecular docking.

Methods:

The databases, including TCMSP, Uniprot, Genecards, STRING, and DAVID, and software,
including jvenn, Cytoscape, and AutoDock Vina, were used to do the analysis.

Results:

Sixteen AE-related active ingredients were screened, involving 127 targets, among which
the main active ingredients included kaempferol, quercetin, and jaranol, etc. The primary targets of
AE for the management of PE encompassed AKT1, CASP3, EGFR, IL1B, IL6, MMP9, PTGS2,
TNF, TP53, and VEGFA. The outcomes of the enrichment analysis revealed that AE was predominantly
implicated in pathways such as the IL-17 signaling pathway and PI3K-Akt signaling pathway,
among others. The molecular docking findings confirmed that the principal active constituents exhibit
favorable binding to their central targets. Specifically, the molecular docking results evinced that
the primary active ingredients evince robust binding activity towards the core targets.

Conclusion:

AE has the potential to act synergistically in the management of PE by engaging multiple
components, targets, and pathways, thereby establishing a basis for further exploration of its material
basis and mechanism of action.
In silico Investigation of the Pro-apoptotic Potential of Syringic Acid Analog
Authors: Hosseini Hossein , Khorasani Reza Rajaie , Ketabi Sepideh , Nikmaram Farrokh Roya
Published: January 2024

Background:

Conformational changes in BAX are associated with the activation of its
pro-apoptotic potential. Previously, small molecule BAX antagonists have been shown to bring about
apoptosis by inducing conformational changes in BAX by direct binding to the serine 184 site of
BAX.

Methods:

In this article, we have proposed that syringic acid analog SA14 can incur apoptosis by
directly binding to and inducing conformational changes in BAX. The pro-apoptotic potential of
SA14 has been investigated using an in silico structure-based approach, i.e., docking and molecular
dynamics computations are employed to study the binding of SA14 to the residues of the active site
of BAX.

Results:

Based on docking results, four BAX-SA14 complexes, each representative of a cluster of
conformations, have been selected for molecular dynamics simulations. The root mean square deviation has indicated the formation of stable conformations for two of the complexes. Other parameters,
such as root mean square fluctuation, radius of gyration, and solvent accessible surface area, have
been used to confirm the results, which have indicated favorable binding between BAX and SA14.

Conclusion:

Overall, the results have indicated that SA14 can bring about stable conformational
changes in BAX and shows merit as a potential BAX-activating pro-apoptotic agent worthy of further experimental studies.
Discovery of Novel Pyrimidine Based Small Molecule Inhibitors as VEGFR-2 Inhibitors: Design, Synthesis, and Anti-cancer Studies
Authors: Dhawale Sachin A. , Mokale Santosh N. , Dabhade Pratap S.
Published: January 2024

Background:

Receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs) are potent oncoproteins in cancer
that, when mutated or overexpressed, can cause uncontrolled growth of cells, angiogenesis, and
metastasis, making them significant targets for cancer treatment. Vascular endothelial growth
factor receptor 2 (VEGFR2), is a tyrosine kinase receptor that is produced in endothelial cells
and is the most crucial regulator of angiogenic factors involved in tumor angiogenesis. So, a
series of new substituted N-(4-((2-aminopyrimidin-5-yl)oxy)phenyl)-N-phenyl cyclopropane-
1,1-dicarboxamide derivatives as VEGFR-2 inhibitors have been designed and synthesized.

Background:

Receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs) are potent oncoproteins in cancer
that, when mutated or overexpressed, can cause uncontrolled growth of cells, angiogenesis, and
metastasis, making them significant targets for cancer treatment. Vascular endothelial growth
factor receptor 2 (VEGFR2), is a tyrosine kinase receptor that is produced in endothelial cells
and is the most crucial regulator of angiogenic factors involved in tumor angiogenesis. So, a
series of new substituted N-(4-((2-aminopyrimidin-5-yl)oxy)phenyl)-N-phenyl cyclopropane1,1-dicarboxamide derivatives as VEGFR-2 inhibitors have been designed and synthesized.

Methods:

Utilizing H-NMR, C13-NMR, and mass spectroscopy, the proposed derivatives were
produced and assessed. HT-29 and COLO-205 cell lines were used for the cytotoxicity tests.
The effective compound was investigated further for the Vegfr-2 kinase inhibition assay, cell
cycle arrest, and apoptosis. A molecular docking examination was also carried out with the
Maestro-12.5v of Schrodinger.

Results:

In comparison to the reference drug Cabozantinib (IC50 = 9.10 and 10.66 μM), compound
SP2 revealed promising cytotoxic activity (IC50 = 4.07 and 4.98 μM) against HT-29 and
COLO-205, respectively. The synthesized compound SP2 showed VEGFR-2 kinase inhibition
activity with (IC50 = 6.82 μM) against the reference drug, Cabozantinib (IC50 = 0.045 μM).
Moreover, compound SP2 strongly induced apoptosis by arresting the cell cycle in the G1
phase. The new compounds' potent VEGFR-2 inhibitory effect was noted with key amino acids
Asp1044, and Glu883, and the hydrophobic interaction was also observed in the pocket of the
VEGFR-2 active site by using a docking study.

Conclusion:

The results demonstrate that at the cellular and enzyme levels, the synthetic compounds
SP2 are similarly effective as cabozantinib. The cell cycle and apoptosis data demonstrate
the effectiveness of the suggested compounds. Based on the findings of docking studies,
cytotoxic effects, in vitro VEGFR-2 inhibition, apoptosis, and cell cycle arrest, this research has
given us identical or more effective VEGFR-2 inhibitors.
The Effectiveness Of Atorvastatin On Kidney Function In Outpatient Diabetic Nephrophaty Patients
Authors:   Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Airlangga University, Hasmono Didik , Tanasy Marledy ,   Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Airlangga University, Firandi Adelia ,   Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Airlangga University, Hartono Ruddy ,   Department of Hospital Pharmacy, Bhayangkara Hospital Surabaya, Safitri Hanum Putri ,   Department of Internal Medicine, Bhayangkara Hospital Surabaya
Published: January 2024

Introduction: Dyslipidemia can damage the kidneys through increased oxidative stress. Statins can be used as adjunctive therapy to standard treatment with Angiotensin Converting Enzym Inhibitor (ACEIs) or Angiotensin II Receptor Blocker (ARBs) to improve renoprotection. Objective: The study is that to analyze the effectiveness atorvastatin on changes in kidney function in patients diabetic nephropathy. Methods: It was observational study. Samples were taken prospectively from diabetic nephropathy patients receiving atorvastatin at the Interna Polyclinic of the Bhayangkara Hospital Surabaya namely November 2021 – January 2022. Patients aged 18 – 80 years received atorvastatin for ≤3 months before the study was conducted, with Glomerulo Filtration Rate (GFR) stages 3A, 3B, and 4, with mild, moderate, and severe albuminuria degrees. Results: There are several patients which receive ARBs, namely candesartan and ketoacid which can affect the results of the analysis so that different tests are conducted in the three groups, the result shows a significant decrease in Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN) values in the sample group which receives additional ketoacid therapy (p <0.05); besides, a decrease in parameters albuminuria in the group with additional 16 mg candesartan therapy which is not significant. Conclusion: The administration atorvastatin alone 20 mg or in combination with candesartan 16 mg and ketoacid on kidney function after 3 months of use can prevent the progression of diabetic nephropathy. Key words: Atorvastatin; Diabetic Nephropathy; Kidney Function
Faktor Prediktor Ketercapaian Target Tekanan Darah Pasien Hipertensi di RS PKU Muhammadiyah Gamping
Authors:   Program Studi Farmasi, Fakultas Kesehatan, Universitas Jenderal Achmad Yani, Yogyakarta, Indonesia, Padmasari Siwi , Husna Nadia ,   Program Studi Farmasi, Fakultas Kesehatan, Universitas Jenderal Achmad Yani, Yogyakarta, Indonesia
Published: January 2024

Hypertension is a disease that ranks third as the cause of death in Indonesia and Yogyakarta is in third place. Many factors that affect achieving blood pressure targets, such as age, comorbidities, gender, duration of hypertension, and antihypertensive drug regimens are significantly associated with increased blood pressure. The purpose of this study was to describe using antihypertensive drugs and risk factors for achieving blood pressure targets in outpatient hypertension patients at PKU Muhammadiyah Gamping Hospital, Yogyakarta. This research is a non-experimental research by designing analytical descriptive research. Data collection was carried out retrospectively from medical records of outpatient hypertension patients from January to July 2019. Data were collected by purposive sampling. The sample in this study was obtained as many as 103 patients. The data were analyzed descriptively to see the pattern of use of antihypertensive drugs and the percentage of achievement of blood pressure targets. The relationship between age, comorbidities, gender, duration of hypertension, and antihypertensive drug regimen with achieving blood pressure targets was analyzed using bivariate and multivariate analysis. Results Based on the study, it was found that 42% of patients had achieved the blood pressure target based on Joint National Committee (JNC) VIII. Patients who received antihypertensive monotherapy were 33% and antihypertensive combinations were 67%. The most common monotherapy was Calcium Chanel Blocker (17.48%) while the most common antihypertensive combination was Angiotensin Receptor Blocker and Calcium Channel Blocker (30.10%). There was a significant relationship between age, comorbidities, duration of hypertension, and antihypertensive drug regimen on achieving blood pressure targets (p<0.05). The predictor factors that significantly influence achieving blood pressure targets in hypertensive patients are age, comorbidities, duration of hypertension, and antihypertensive therapy regiment
Hubungan Antara Tingkat Pengetahuan dan Ketepatan Apoteker Dalam Mengelola Obat Sisa, Obat Rusak, dan Obat Kedaluwarsa di Apotek Malang Raya
Authors:   Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Brawijaya, Malang, Indonesia, Gusti Ebtavanny Tamara , Lu’lu’il Firdauzia Dhiana ,   Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Brawijaya, Malang, Indonesia, Rachma Pramestuti Hananditia ,   Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Brawijaya, Malang, Indonesia, Lawuningtyas Hariadini Ayuk ,   Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Brawijaya, Malang, Indonesia, Kurnia Illahi Ratna ,   Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Brawijaya, Malang, Indonesia
Published: January 2024

Medicine is an important pharmaceutical component in health care field, the quality of medicine must be kept in a good condition until it used by patients. In this case the pharmacist has a stake in maintaining medicine’s quality through a proper drugs management. Pharmacists should have the knowledge and the appropriateness in the management of leftover, damaged and expired medicines to prevent the cumulation of medicine waste in the pharmacies and the community environment. Therefore, this research was conducted with the aim to find out the Correlation Between Pharmacists’ Level of Knowledge and Management of Unused, Damaged or Expired Medicines at Malang Raya Pharmacies. Analytical observational research method with cross sectional approach was carried out to 106 pharmacists who worked in the pharmacy of Malang Raya region. Sampling was carried out using clustered random sampling technique. Questionnaires that have passed the validity and reliability test were used as a measurement of the level of knowledge and the drugs management of the pharmacist. This study was approved by the Medical Research Ethics Committee of the Medical Faculty of Brawijaya University. Result of the average level of pharmacists’ knowledge was in the category of "good" with a value of 81.6%, but result of the appropriateness questionnaire with “how to store medicines properly” and “how to eliminate drugs properly” indicators, showed that there 100% of respondent were not appropriate. Correlation analysis between the level of knowledge and drugs management of the pharmacist, showed a significance value of 0.425. It was concluded from this study, that there was no correlation between the level of pharmacist knowledge with the management of unused drugs, damaged drugs and expired drugs in the Pharmacy area of Malang Raya Keywords: pharmacist, knowledge, leftover medicine, damage medicine, expired medicine
A Review of Mechanism of Action of Moringa oleifera as an Inhibitor of Adipogenesis in Obesity
Authors:   Master’s Programme in Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta, Indonesia, Gigih Andy Putra Achmad , Louisa Melva ,   Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta, Indonesia
Published: January 2024

Background: Obesity has been becoming a global health problem that could cause the emergence of many other diseases. Several strategies are used to treat obesity, including lifestyle modifications, anti-obesity medications (pharmacotherapy), bariatric surgery, and gut microbiota transplantation. Pharmacotherapy is an effective treatment method and is often chosen by obese people because it is quite simple and does not require invasive and expensive procedures. However, long-term usage of conventional medicines causes serious side effects. Therefore, studies about herbal medicine increased significantly, one of them is Moringa oleifera (MO). Objectives: This review provides information about the pathways involved in the adipogenesis processes in obesity and how MO can inhibit adipogenesis through several pathways. Methods: Data were collected from PubMed based on the keywords “moringa”, “obese”, “adipogenesis”, “adipocyte”, and “lipogenesis”. There were 16 journals in full text that met the inclusion criteria for conducting a literature study related to these keywords over the last 10 years (from 2013 to 2023). Results: The anti-obesity effect of MO is thought to come from several specific compounds isolated from this plant, including quercetin, isoquercetin, quercetin-3-O-malonylglucoside, astragalin, kaempferol, isothiocyanate, EGCG, and many others. These active compounds can be isolated from various parts of the MO plant, but the most widely used are the leaves and seeds. These compounds exert anti-obesity activity by inhibiting adipogenesis through multiple pathways, including the AMPK, PI3K/AKT, MAPK, JAK/STAT, TGF-β, and Wnt/β-catenin pathways. Conclusions: Several in vivo, in vitro, and clinical trial studies have been conducted to demonstrate the benefits and safety of MO as a medicinal plant with pharmacological potential to inhibit adipogenesis in obesity.Keywords: moringa; adipogenesis; adipocyte; lipogenesis; obese