bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Association of Breast Cancer Risk, Density, and Stiffness: Global Tissue Stiffness on Breast MR Elastography (MRE)
Authors: Patel Bhavika , Pepin Kay , Brandt Kathy , Mazza Gina , Pockaj Barbara , Chen Jun , Zhou Yuxiang , Northfelt Donald , Anderson Karen , Kling Juliana , Swanson Kristin , Nikkhah Mehdi , Ehman Richard
Published: June 2021

Purpose:Quantify in vivo biomechanical tissue properties in various breast densities and in normal risk and high risk women using Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)/MRE and examine the association between breast biomechanical properties and cancer risk.Methods: Patients with normal risk or high risk of breast cancer underent 3.0 T breast MR imaging and elastography. Breast parenchymal enhancement (BPE), density (from most recent mammogram), stiffness, elasticity, and viscosity were recorded. Within each breast density group (non-dense versus dense), stiffness, elasticity, and viscosity were compared across risk groups (normal versus high). A multivariable logistic regression model was used to evaluate whether the MRE parameters (separately for stiffness, elasticity, and viscosity) predicted risk status after controlling for clinical factors.Results: 50 normal risk and 86 high risk patients were included. Risk groups were similar on age, density, and menopausal status. Among patients with dense breasts, mean stiffness, elasticity, and viscosity were significantly higher in high risk patients (N = 55) compared to normal risk patients (N = 34; all p < 0.001). Stiffness remained a significant predictor of risk status (OR=4.26, 95% CI [1.96, 9.25]) even after controlling for breast density, BPE, age, and menopausal status. Similar results were seen for elasticity and viscosity.Conclusion: A structurally-based, quantitative biomarker of tissue stiffness obtained from MRE is associated with differences in breast cancer risk in dense breasts. Tissue stiffness could provide a novel prognostic marker to help identify high risk women with dense breasts who would benefit from increased surveillance and/or risk reduction measures.
Moxibustion attenuates neurogenic detrusor overactivity in spinal cord injury rats by inhibiting M2/ATP/P2X3 pathway
Authors: Wang Lu , Fu Yuan-Bo , Liu Yi , Yang Na-Na , Ma Si-Ming , Wang Xue-Rui , Huang Jin , Shi Guang-Xia , Yang Jing-Wen , Liu Cun-Zhi
Published: June 2021

Background
Activation of muscarinic receptors located in bladder sensory pathways is generally considered to be the primary contributor for driving the pathogenesis of neurogenic detrusor overactivity following spinal cord injury. The present study is undertaken to examine whether moxibustion improves neurogenic detrusor overactivity via modulating the abnormal muscarinic receptor pathway.
Methods
Female Sprague-Dawley rats were subjected to spinal cord injury with T9-10 spinal cord transection. Fourteen days later, animals were received moxibustion treatment for one week. Urodynamic parameters and pelvic afferents discharge were measured. Acetylcholine and adenosine triphosphate content in the voided cystometry fluid were determined. Expressions of M2, M3 and P2X3 receptor in the bladder mucosa were evaluated.
Results
Moxibustion treatment prevented the development of detrusor overactivity in SCI rats, with an increase in the intercontraction interval and micturition pressure threshold and a decrease in afferent activity during filling. The expression of M2, but not M3, was markedly suppressed by moxibustion, accompanied by a reduction in the level of ATP and P2X3. M2 receptor antagonist methoctramine hemihydrate had similar effects to moxibustion on bladder function and afferent activity, while the M2-preferential agonist oxotremorine methiodide abolished the beneficial effects of moxibustion.
Conclusions
Moxibustion is a potential candidate for treatment of neurogenic bladder overactivity in a rat model of spinal cord injury possibly through inhibiting the M2/ATP/P2X3 pathway.
The Experience of Women in a Phase II Trial of Hypnosis and Progressive Muscle Relaxation for Body Image: Exploring Possible Mechanisms
Authors: Arring Noel M , Lafferty Carolyn K , Clark Patricia M , Barton Debra L
Published: June 2021

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to explore potential mechanisms of two interventions, hypnosis and progressive muscle relaxation to nature sounds (PMR), to improve body image in a randomized phase II trial. Participant comments were explored in an unplanned qualitative analysis.Methods:This qualitative study employed thematic analysis, a hybrid approach of inductive and deductive coding. We analyzed participant feedback given at any point during the 6-week intervention. Results:In the parent study 87 women were randomized in a 2:1 fashion, 59 to hypnosis and 28 to PMR. Sixty-three of the 87 women participating (72%) were motivated to write comments elaborating on their study experience. Thematic analysis generated five themes, including: relaxation and stress management, mind-body connection, improved mood, sleep, and sexual health. Four of the themes were represented in both groups while sexual health was only represented in the hypnosis group. Conclusions: This analysis suggests that both hypnosis and PMR may improve body image through the ability to relax and manage stress, sleep better, improve mood and create a mind-body connection. Sexual health emerged as an important theme among participants in the hypnosis group, but not the PMR group. Hypnosis, due to the hypnotic suggestions for sexual health, may have a positive impact on sexual health specifically. Improving body image alone may not have profound effects on the broader concept of sexual health. More research is needed.
Diagnostic Value of sIL-2R, TNF-α and PCT for Sepsis Infection in Patients with Closed Abdominal Injury Complicated with Severe Multiple Abdominal Injuries
Authors: Shang Anquan , Zhang Wei , Dai Yuzhu , Wang Weiwei , He Li-zhen , Zhai Guanghua , Yu Jiong , Cheng Jun , Wu Jian
Published: June 2021

Objective: To evaluate the diagnostic value of soluble interleukin-2 receptor (sIL-2R), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), procalcitonin (PCT) and combined detection for sepsis infection in patients with closed abdominal injury complicated with severe multiple abdominal injuries.Patients and Methods: 140 patients with closed abdominal injury complicated with severe multiple abdominal injuries who were diagnosed and treated in 2015 to 2020, were divided into sepsis group (n = 70), and infection group (n = 70).Results: The levels of sIL-2R, TNF-α and PCT in sepsis group were higher than those in infection group (P < 0.05). ROC curve showed that the AUC values of sIL-2R, TNF-α, PCT and sIL-2R+TNF-a+PCT were 0.827, 0.781, 0.821 and 0.846, respectively, which were higher than those of WBC, CRP, SAA, and IL-6. AUC of the three combined tests was higher than that of TNF-α, and the difference was statistically significant (P < 0.05). There was no significant difference in AUC between sIL-2R and TNF-α, sIL-2R and PCT, TNF-α and PCT, three combined tests and sIL-2R, three combined tests and PCT (P > 0.05). When the median was used as the cut point, the corrected sIL-2R, TNF-α, PCT high level group was not better than the low level group in the risk of sepsis (P >0.05). When the four groups were classified by using quantile as cut point, the OR risk values of the high level of TNF-α and PCT (Q4) and the low level of PCT (Q1) after correction were 7.991 and 21.76, respectively, with statistical significance (P < 0.05).Conclusions: The detection of sIL-2R, TNF-α and PCT has a good value in the diagnosis for sepsis infection in patients with closed abdominal injury complicated with severe multiple abdominal injuries. The high concentrations of PCT and TNF-α can be used as predictors of septic infection risk.
IL-6 knockout alleviates inflammatory response and improve acute lung injury via regulating macrophage polarization in sepsis
Authors: Zhang Jinxin , Shen Kuo , Xie Jiangang , Liu Shanshou , Bai Xiaozhi , Wang Jing , Zhao Ming , Li Jin , Li Shaohui , Li Junjie , Yin Wen
Published: June 2021

Background Sepsis is a fatal disease with a high rate of morbidity and mortality, during which acute lung injury is the earliest and most serious complication. Macrophage plays a crucial role in the initiation and progress of sepsis. This study meant to explore the effect of IL-6 knockout in CLP induced sepsis. Methods In this study, cecal ligation and puncture (CLP) was performed on wildtype and interleukin 6 (IL-6) knockout C57 mice. General condition and death rate of sepsis mice were observed. organ samples (lungs, livers, kidneys and hearts) and serum were collected for histology observation and inflammatory cytokine detection. Lung tissue injury detection were conducted via lung injury score, wet/dry ration and protein concentrations measurement of Bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF). In in vivo studies, RAW264.7 macrophages were transfected with IL-6 specific siRNA and treated with LPS. After exposed to IL-6 specific siRNA and LPS, expression of inflammatory cytokines interleukin 1 (IL-1), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), IL-6 and interleukin 10 (IL-10) were detected by RT-qPCR, concentration of IL-1 and TNF-α in culture supernatant were detected by ELISA and M1 and M2 markers were detected by western blot and flow cytometry. Results We constructed CLP induced sepsis models and found that inhibition of IL-6 could improve general condition and death rate of sepsis mice. Mice in IL-6 knockout group display improved tissue damage, especially in the lung tissue. IL-6 knockout relieved inflammatory cytokines storm in both serum and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid while polarized macrophage to an anti-inflammatory M2 phenotype. In cell model, inhibition of IL-6 could alleviate LPS induced expression of inflammatory cytokines IL-1, TNF-α, and IL-6 in macrophages. Western blot and Flow cytometry results indicated that expression of M1 markers (iNOS and CD86) in LPS stimulated macrophages were significantly declined while M2 (Arg-1 and CD206) were enhanced when expression of IL-6 was blocked. Conclusion Inhibition of IL-6 alleviated LPS induced inflammation and exerted protective effect in sepsis via regulating macrophage function and polarization.
Agricultural Management and Cultivation Period Alter Soil Enzymatic Activity and Bacterial Diversity in Litchi (Litchi Chinensis Sonn.) Orchards
Authors: Chen Yu-Pei , Tsai Chia-Fang , Hameed Asif , Chang Yu-Jen , Young Chiu-Chung
Published: June 2021

BackgroundAgricultural management and temporal change including climate conditions and soil properties can result in the alteration of soil enzymatic activity and bacterial community, respectively. Therefore, different agricultural practices have been used globally to explore the soil quality. In this study, the temporal variations in soil property, enzymatic activity, and bacterial community at three successive trimester sampling intervals were performed in the soil samples of litchi orchards that were maintained under conventional and sustainable agricultural practices. ResultsAgricultural management found to significantly influence arylsulfatase, β-glucosidase, and urease activities across time as observed by repeated-measures analysis of variance. Shannon and Simpson diversity indices, and the relative abundance of predominant Acidobacteria and Proteobacteria were significantly influenced by temporal change but not agricultural management. This suggested that soil enzymatic activity was more susceptible to the interaction of temporal change and agricultural management than that of the bacterial community. Multiple regression analysis identified total nitrogen, EC, and phosphorus as the significant predictors of acid phosphatase, arylsulfatase, and β-glucosidase for explaining 29.5%－39% of the variation. Moreover, the soil pH and EC were selected for the SOBS, Chao, ACE, and Shannon index to describe 33.8%－79% of the variation, but no significant predictor was observed in the dominant bacterial phyla. Additionally, the temporal change involved in the soil properties had a greater effect on bacterial richness and diversity, and enzymatic activity than that of the dominant phyla of bacteria.ConclusionsA long-term sustainable agriculture in litchi orchards would also decrease soil pH and phosphorus, resulting in low β-glucosidase and urease activity, bacterial richness, and diversity. Nevertheless, application of chemical fertilizer could facilitate the soil acidification and lead to adverse effects on soil quality. The relationship between bacterial structure and biologically-driven ecological processes can be explored by the cross-over analysis of enzymatic activity, soil properties and bacterial composition.
Successful simultaneous transcatheter treatment for secundum atrial septal defect with valvular pulmonary stenosis in children under transthoracic echocardiography guidance
Authors: Lu Xuning , Wen Ping , Liu Yuhang , Zhu Quanwei
Published: June 2021

BACKGROUND Transcatheter device closure of secundum atrial septal defect (ASD) with valvular pulmonary stenosis (PS) under fluoroscopy and/or transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) guidance is a mature technology. However, little study has focused on whether the technology can be guided totally by transthoracic echocardiography (TTE), even in children.METHODS Thirteen children with ASD combined with PS underwent transcatheter device closure totally guided by TTE at our cardiac center from March 2 016 to August 2 019. Percutaneous transcatheter pulmonary valvuloplasty was performed first and then transcatheter closure of the ASD uneventfully.RESULTS All cases were successfully treated with transcatheter balloon pulmonary valvuloplasty and closure of ASD respectively via femoral vein approach solely under TTE guidance. The mean defect size was 8.1±1.4 mm (range: 5.5-10 mm), the preoperative mean pressure gradient across pulmonary valve was 61.2±5.5 mmHg (range: 51-71 mmHg). The mean device size used was 11.1±1.9 mm (range: 8- 14 mm), the mean procedure time was 55.1±8.0 min (range: 45-71 min). There were no serious cardiovascular related complications. During the follow-up period (10 mon to 47mon), no arrhythmias device, thrombosis, residual fistulas or device frame fractures were detected. PS gradient had significant difference before and after procedure during the follow up (t=28.9, P =0.000).CONCLUSION Simultaneous transcatheter treatment for ASD complicated by PS in children under TTE guidance is an safe and effective therapeutic option.
The Effects of the Solvents on the Macrocyclic Structures: From Rigid Pillararene to Flexible Crown Ether
Authors: Wang Shuangshuang , Yin Yanzhen , Gao Jian , Liang Xingtang , Shi Haixin
Published: June 2021

The differences in the macrocyclic structures lead to different flexibilities, and yet the effect of solvents on the conformations is not clear so far. In this work, the conformations of four representational macrocyclic molecules (pillar[5]arene, p-tert-butyl calix[6]arene, benzylic amide macrocycle and dibenzo-18-crown-6) in three solvents with distinct polarity have been studied by all-atom molecular dynamics simulations. The structural features of the macrocycles in the solvents indicate that the conformations are related to the polarity of the solvents and the formation of hydrogen bonds. For the pillar[5]arene, the benzylic amide macrocycle and the dibenzo-18-crown-6, that cannot form intramolecular hydrogen bonds, the polarity of solvents is the major contributing factor in the conformations. The formation of intramolecular hydrogen bonds, in contrast, determinates the conformations of the calix[6]arene. Furthermore, the slight fluctuations of the structures will result in tremendous change of the intramolecular hydrogen bonds of the macrocycles and the intermolecular hydrogen bonds between the macrocycles and the solvents. The current theoretical studies that serve as a basis for the macrocyclic chemistry are valuable for the efficient structural design of the macrocyclic molecules.
Automatic decision making system with environmental and traffic data
Authors: Ersoy Sezgin , Waqar Tayyab , Toptaş Ersin
Published: June 2021

By using computer vision and machine learning methods, driving lane detection and tracking, the position of the vehicles in the vicinity, their speed and direction will be determined through real-time processing of images taken from the traffic camera. Processing of the collected data using artificial intelligence and fuzzy logic and to calculate the data within the scope of “game theory” and to implement the dynamic control of the vehicle in the light of calculated data is planned. In addition to that, the designed system can also function as a driver assistant for non-autonomous vehicles with an appropriate user interface. First, the positions of the vehicles and driving lanes will be detected and monitored using computer vision and machine learning methods. Then, the vehicle speeds will be calculated by taking advantage of the historical data of the vehicle positions in the surrounding area from the previous observations, and the location estimation will be made by creating probability distributions of where each vehicle will be in the future. With the position estimation and the obtained speed information, it will be ensured that the vehicle is in the safest position in the transportation process to the destination and that it travels again at the safest speed.
Effect of Liquid Food Viscosity on the Load Characteristics of Single-Screw Pumps
Authors: Naumov Vladimir
Published: June 2021

Introduction. Hydraulic calculations of flow parts play an important role in the improvement of modern technological lines. Such calculations do not include the characteristics of pumping units. Single-screw pumps (SSP) pump high-viscosity liquids in modern food production. The research objective was to develop a new engineering method for assessing the effect of the viscosity of non-Newtonian fluids on the load characteristics of SSP in food production.

Study objects and methods. The research featured SSP with a hopper and an auger, designed for pumping high-viscosity liquids. The initial data were taken from officially published test results of Atlas W SSP and the study of the rheological properties of confectionery jelly masses. The research involved authentic methods for calculating the load characteristics of SSP based on the effect of the viscosity of pumped liquid. According to the first approximation, the change in the dimensionless load characteristics was similar in different SSP with an increase in the viscosity of the pumped liquid. The dependence of the viscosity on the rotation speed was determined by the Bingham formula.

Results and discussion. The test results of the Atlas W SSP confirmed the need to take into account the minimum rotation speed at which liquid pumping begins in the calculations. The specified frequency was directly proportional to the differential pressure for this series. The study revealed approximate load characteristics of the SSP during jelly pumping. While pumping viscous foods, SSP demonstrated poorer performance and bigger power consumption than during pumping water. The supply decreased and the power increased as the temperature went down and the pectin content in confectionery jelly masses rose.

Conclusion. The dependences of the flow rate and power consumed on the rotation speed published by the manufacturers of SSP were obtained during tests on water. The present research resulted in a new method to assess the load characteristics of the SSP when pumping high-viscosity liquids in food production. The obtained regression dependences need further refinement and experimental verification. The method can be used to design new technological pipelines.
Perspective Yeast Races for Young Sparkling Wines with a Muscat Aroma
Authors: Lutkov Igor , Yermolin Dmitry , Zadorozhnaya Daria , Lutkova Nataliya
Published: June 2021

Introduction. In order to solve the growing demand for Muscat sparkling wines, some of the Muscat grapes used for the production of liqueur wines should be used as a raw material for sparkling wines. The technology of preparing young sparkling wines has a shorter production cycle. Science-based selection of the yeast race makes it possible to obtain young sparkling wines with a clear and bright Muscat aroma.

Study objects and method. The research featured young sparkling wines from White Muscat grapes, produced using different yeasts races. The research involved both standard and modified methods of enochemical analysis.

Results and discussion. The LALVIN QA-23 and Odesskiy Cherniy-SD-13 yeast races demonstrated a more active fermentation of Muscat white wort. The Sevastopolskaya 23 sample had in a slower fermentation, which promoted a greater accumulation of bound forms of carbon dioxide (16%). It contained the smallest amount of residual sugars (2 g/dm3) and thriable acids (6 g/dm3) and the largest amount of polyphenols (103 mg/dm3) and amine nitrogen (91 mg/dm3). Two samples accumulated a sufficient amount of free terpenes: 1.16 mg/dm3 for LALVIN QA-23 and 1.13 mg/dm3 for Sevastopolskaya 23. The degustation scores were quite high: LALVIN QA-23 received 9.03 points and Odesskiy Cherniy-SD-13 – 9.02 points, while Sevastopolskaya 23 scored 9.00 points. The LALVIN QA-23 sample proved to have the most pronounced varietal aroma, whereas the Odesskiy Cherniy-SD-13 sample possessed a more complex aromatic complex.

Conclusion. The LALVIN QA-23 and Sevastopolskaya 23 yeast races were found suitable for bottle champagnization of young Muscat sparkling wines. They accumulated a sufficient amount of terpene alcohols. The samples had a clear Muscat aroma, harmonious taste, and good typical properties. The new method makes it possible to produce high quality sparkling wines in the harvest year.
Multi-Stage Method of Milk Powder Production: Energy Costs Analysis
Authors: Kharitonov Vladimir , Asafov Vladimir , Kuznetsov Pavel , Gabrielova Valentina
Published: June 2021

Introduction. One of the promising methods in the production of dairy and other food in concentrated, condensed and dry forms is a consistent combination of dehydration methods. The subject of this research relevant now is approaches to the calculation of such processes. The work objective is to analyze the dehydration staging effect on the energy consumption in this process.

Study objects and methods. Liquid, concentrated and powdered dairy products: whole and skim milk, milk whey, whole milk substitutes, as well as their dehydration parameters at certain stages. The determination of moisture and solids mass fraction in products was carried out with a standard method.

Results and discussion. The feasibility of using a multi-stage dehydration method for the production of various types of powder milk products has been justified. The characteristic boundaries of solids mass fraction at different stages of the process were determined. The material-balance equation made it possible to define the formula for the total specific energy consumption relative to the unit of the final dry product at an arbitrary number of dehydration stages. The paper contains examples of a comparative efficiency assessment of the dehydration process carried out at different stages from the point of view of energy costs of its implementation.

Conclusion. The research featured various issues related to the use of dehydration methods in the production of milk powder products. An equation has been drawn up to estimate the specific energy consumption of the multi-stage dehydration process relative to a unit of the final dry product. The use of a multi-stage process allows to effectively reduce the specific energy consumption, as well as to generate new high quality products.
Regulatory contract usage in case of antitrust mergers and acquisitions control
Authors:   Lomonosov Moscow State University, Shastitko Andrey ,   Center for Studies of Competition and Economic Regulation RANEPA, Markova Olga ,   Lomonosov Moscow State University,   Center for Studies of Competition and Economic Regulation RANEPA, Meleshkina Anna ,   Lomonosov Moscow State University,   Center for Studies of Competition and Economic Regulation RANEPA
Published: June 2021

The article provides an analysis of counterparties’ benefits and costs within the framework of regulatory contracts the object of which is structural prescriptions issued by the antimonopoly authority controlling mergers and acquisitions. The purpose of the study is to identify discrete institutional alternatives for creating credible commitments in regulatory contracts with the participation of the monitoring trustee (taking into account the risk of distorted incentives).The object of the study is the regulatory contract between the regulator, the trustee, and the company (merger participant) in the case of divestiture, since this situation is the most sensitive in terms of setting incentives and risks of opportunism. The subject of the study is credible commitments in such regulatory contracts. The analysis is based on methods of new institutional economics and of law and economics, and it employs mathematical modeling. The comparative analysis of discrete institutional alternatives is used as the main methodological approach, and it is based on an analysis of action coordination forms and harmonization of economic agents’ expectations — in this case, the antimonopoly agency, a trustee, and companies involved in mergers and acquisitions transactions. Advantages and disadvantages of the following contracting options were identified: independent monitoring by the regulator;monitoring with the involvement of a trustee whose activities are financed by the competition authority or the company; a hybrid approach financing trustee activities; distribution of income from penalties as a way for financing trustee activities; and a system of pledges in a tripartite contract. The article also defines the conditions for credible commitments within the framework of regulatory contracts. The results of this research can be used as a guideline for institutional design in the Russian antitrust enforcement system.
Global trends in the reproduction of human capital in the tertiary education system
Authors:   St. Petersburg State University, Alpatov Gennady , Anokhina Elena ,   St. Petersburg State University
Published: June 2021

This article assesses global trends in higher education. Two tasks are central to this effort:1) research into higher as performing the macro-function of producing human capital;2) a comparison of the organization and financing of higher education in different countries.Our hypothesis is as follows. Along with the influence of the mental development of the population and the level of productive forces, we believe that the main difference in the effectiveness of higher education systems is a consequence of the regulatory influences of governments.Study of the contradictions accumulated in the course of continuous reform allows us to propose measures to improve systemic interaction. The article compares the organization of higher education in the USA, Great Britain, Japan, and Russia at various stages, from admission to universities, to employment of graduates, and the corresponding organization and funding of the educational process. Research results are these. Comparing the indicators of applicant selection suggests replacing the Unified State Exam in Russia with an indicator of the weighted average score of electronic diaries. The study of the learning process showed a tendency to replace pure sciences in curricula with applied sciences. Variants of increasing the share of education in pure sciences are proposed to extend the life of basic competencies of graduates in conditions of local backwardness and uncertainty in the development of regional labor markets. For organization and financing of higher education, the analysis suggests an incompatibility between the Bologna system as introduced in Russia, and the preserved course system of education, with its fixed structure of curricula and expulsion for academic failure.The article shows ways to eliminate this incompatibility, such as the transition to a subjectstatus system of education and re-teaching in the subject. This will eliminate the current situation of fining universities for each expelled student. Conclusions are provided about the need for an integrated approach to subsequent transformations based on the study of global trends in the development of higher education and the preservation of the advantages of the development of Russian higher education.
Crowdfunding as a tool for investing in sustainable development projects and its place in the green finance ecosystem
Authors:   The South Ural University of Technology, Valko Danila
Published: June 2021

This article discusses and substantiates the potential of “green crowdfunding” as a component of the ecosystem of green finance, including the consideration of its investment features in financing projects aimed at sustainable development. The main hypothesis under discussion is that crowdfunding technologies have the potential to increase the financial and commercial success of environmentally-oriented projects. The achievement of this goal is mediated by methods of analysis of empirical research, bibliometric and content analysis of publications in the framework of a systematic approach. The logic of this work predetermines the following range of tasks: outlining and characterizing the conventional classification of crowdfunding, systematizing its modern forms; bibliometric and content analysis of the demand for the concept of green crowdfunding in foreign and domestic studies, as well as the selection of the conventional interpretation; systematization of the investment features of green crowdfunding projects; and highlighting the place of green crowdfunding in the ecosystem of green finance. Green crowdfunding, given the current limitations, remains largely adequate to the conditions of the ecosystem of green finance, as it supports the selection of green investments in the global environment of collective investment and interconnects the distributed sources of ideas in the field of sustainable development with funding sources. This is most relevant in the context of national economic crises and uneven market compression, where individuals from other regions and countries can easily be drawn to finance.
Who does what and why? Examining intra-household water and sanitation decision-making and autonomy in Asutifi North, Ghana
Authors: Bisung Elijah , Dickin Sarah
Published: June 2021

While under-researched in the water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) sector, it is increasingly clear that women's agency is fundamental to addressing inequalities in many contexts. However, focusing on agency alone can overlook the underlying reasons for decision-making behaviour. This article examines two important aspects of decision-making: motivations behind a person's actions, and the extent to which decisions are perceived to be solely or jointly made. We draw on a household survey of 600 respondents to examine decision-making related to three domains: water collection, WASH expenditures, and WASH community planning among dual adult household members in Asutifi North district, Ghana. On average, women were more likely to report no input into decision-making related to sanitation expenditure and community participation. However, women had high decision-making autonomy related to water collection and community participation compared to men. Disagreement on decision-making among partners was substantial and systematic across the three domains. These findings imply that decision-making in WASH are gendered, and better contextual understanding of the underlying gender dynamics is very important for promoting women's empowerment in WASH. These dynamics are particularly important to consider in interventions that rely on household self-supply of water or sanitation facilities.
Assessing national WaSH targets through a water governance lens: a case study of the Sanitation and Water for All partnership commitments
Authors: Schiedek Leonie , Gabrielsson Sara , Jiménez Alejandro , Giné Ricard , Roaf Virginia , Swain Ashok
Published: June 2021

Dysfunctional water, sanitation and hygiene (WaSH) systems are mainly determined by poor water governance, exacerbating inequalities and poverty. Multi-stakeholder partnerships provide an approach to more flexible and adaptive governance to explore these problems. In this article, national commitments made to improve WaSH, made through the Sanitation and Water for All (SWA) partnership's Mutual Accountability Mechanism, are examined through qualitative content analysis and guided by the SMART framework to assess the current target-setting. The analysis reveals that there are differences in the participation of the different constituencies regarding the number of stakeholders participating and their performance for measurable and time-bound commitments. This applies especially to research and learning and the private sector. Countries have prioritized commitments related to policy and strategy, efficiency and enabling conditions; further research should understand the linkages of the SWA commitments with other priority-setting processes at the national level. In sum, the commitments leave room for improvement to specify approaches to water governance in more detail and the chance to support the creation of sustainable and resilient systems with more diversified commitments from a wider range of partners.
Exploring the Role of Monoamine Oxidase Activity in Aging and Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Rahman Md. Sohanur , Uddin Md. Sahab , Rahman Md. Ataur , Samsuzzaman Md. , Behl Tapan , Hafeez Abdul , Perveen Asma , Barreto George E. , Ashraf Ghulam Md.
Published: June 2021

Monoamine oxidases (MAOs) are a family of flavin adenine dinucleotide-dependent enzymes that
have a crucial role in the metabolism of neurotransmitters of the central nervous system. Impaired function of
MAOs is associated with copious brain diseases. The alteration of monoamine metabolism is a characteristics
feature of aging. MAO plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer’s disease (AD), a progressive neurodegenerative
disorder associated with an excessive accumulation of amyloid-beta (Aβ) peptide and neurofibrillary
tangles (NFTs). Activated MAO plays a critical role in the development of amyloid plaques from Aβ as
well as the formation of the NFTs. In the brain, MAO mediated metabolism of monoamines is the foremost
source of reactive oxygen species formation. The elevated level of MAO-B expression in astroglia has been reported
in the AD brains adjacent to amyloid plaques. Increased MAO-B activity in the cortical and hippocampal
regions is associated with AD. This review describes the pathogenic mechanism of MAOs in aging as well
as the development and propagation of Alzheimer’s pathology.
Qualitative LC-MS/MS Identification, Formation and Stability of Adducts and Crosslinks Arising from the Reactions of Glutathione with the Model Enal Systems
Authors: Salus Kinga , Pluskota-Karwatka Donata
Published: June 2021

Glutathione (GSH), due to the ability to capture the reactive electrophiles of exoand
endogenous origins, is expected to prevent cross-linking induced by these compounds.
However, it may instead become cross-linked itself. We subjected glutathione to reactions
with model α,β-unsaturated carbonyl systems resulting from the interactions of adenosine
with bifunctional aldehyde products of lipid peroxidation, and identified a range of adducts
and cross-linked products. We found that the S-conjugated adducts, initially formed in the
typical GSH Michael addition to α,β-unsaturated carbonyl system, unexpectedly undergo
gradual degradation giving rise to the final N-conjugated products, in which formation of peptide
amino group is involved instead of sulfhydryl functionality. This finding shows that the
role of the GSH amino group in the non-enzymatic detoxification is underestimated, and that
reactions between cellular α,β-unsaturated carbonyl compounds and GSH may be more complex than are presently
perceived.
A Review on Pharmacokinetic and Pharmacodynamic Drug Interactions of Adrenergic β-blockers with Clinically Relevant Drugs-An Overview
Authors: Maideen Naina Mohamed Pakkir , Rajkapoor Balasubramanian , Muthusamy Sudha , Ramanathan Sambathkumar , Thangadurai Subramaniam Ananda , Sughir Abdussalam A.
Published: June 2021

Adrenergic β-blockers are used to treat many conditions, including hypertension, cardiac arrhythmias,
heart failure, angina pectoris, migraine, and tremors. The majority of the β-blockers including Propranolol, Metoprolol,
Acebutolol, Alprenolol, Betaxolol, Carvedilol, Nebivolol and Oxprenolol are metabolised majorly by
CYP2D6, and Bisoprolol is primarily metabolised by CYP3A4 enzymes. The drugs inhibiting or inducing them may
alter the pharmacokinetics of those β-blockers. The plasma concentrations of Propranolol might be elevated by the
concomitant use of drugs, such as SSRIs (Fluoxetine, Paroxetine), SNRIs (Duloxetine) and Cimetidine, while the
plasma concentrations of Metoprolol increased by the concurrent use of SSRIs (Fluoxetine, Paroxetine), Amiodarone,
Celecoxib, Cimetidine, Terbinafine, and Diphenhydramine. β-blockers can also interact pharmacodynamically
with drugs, including fluoroquinolones, antidiabetic agents and NSAIDs. In addition, β-blockers may interact with
herbs, such as curcumin, Ginkgo biloba, Schisandra chinensis, green tea, guggul, hawthorn, St. John’s wort and
Yohimbine. This article focuses on clinically relevant drug interactions of β-blockers with commonly prescribed
medications. In addition to Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics of the drug interactions, recommendations for
clinical practice are highlighted. The prescribers and the pharmacists are needed to be aware of the drugs interacting
with β-blockers to prevent possible adverse drug interactions.
Effectiveness and Safety of A Nutraceutical Formulation for the Treatment of Functional Dyspepsia in Primary Care
Authors: Tursi Antonio , Picchio Marcello , Elisei Walter , Allegretta Leonardo , Benedicenti Pierluigi , Bossa Fabrizio , Di Bella Simone , Elefante Antonio , Gallina Stefano , Greco Federica , Maurichi Francesco , Palieri Antonio Pio , Penna Antonio , Pranzo Giuseppe , Rizzo Giovanni Luca , Brandimarte Giovanni , Abenavoli Ludovico , Alfieri Maria Santa , Antonino Natale , Autorino Carlo , Bellomo Pasquale , Casamassima Carlo , Colucci Basilio Paolo , De Cristofaro Vincenzo , Demauro Rocco , Derenzio Pietro , Detommasi Francesco , Fazio Michele , Ferrari Vincenzo , Gallo Alessio , Greco Donatella , Lisco Vito , Lore Francesco , Manfredi Michele , Marsano Giorgio , Mascoli Pasquale , Mazzilli Luigi , Messa Giovanni , Minoretti Giulio , Misciagna Pasquale , Monterisi Francesco , Nappi Saverio , Resta Anna Rosa , Saponaro Pasquale , Sbarra Giovanni , Scutifero Salvatore , Selvaggio Vincenzo , Sica Giuseppe , Tarallo Mario , Torelli Giancarlo , Vigilante Costantino , Zecchillo Pasquale
Published: June 2021

Background:

Although FD may affect up to 10% of the general population, the therapy
for FD is not standard. Recently, ginger-based food supplements have been proposed in order to restore
FD symptoms. Our aim was to assess the efficacy of a new nutraceutical formulation containing
extract of gingerol and thymus as a possible natural treatment in managing the symptoms of
functional dyspepsia (FD).

Methods:

We retrospectively analyzed the efficacy and safety profiles of a nutraceutical formulation
containing Zingiber officinalis root extract and a standardized Thymus extract. It was administered
as 1 ml/day twice a day for 90 days. Patients were assessed at baseline and after 1, 2 and 3
months of treatment, following a month of pharmacological washout by completing a questionnaire
reporting the trend of the following symptoms: epigastric pain, epigastric heaviness, early satiety,
belching, and regurgitation. Every symptom was assessed by a Visual Analogic Scale (VAS),
ranging from 0= absence to 10= maximal severity.

Results:

We enrolled 272 patients (99 males and 173 females; median IQR age 49.5, 36-64 yrs).
Obesity (BMI>30) was present in 28 (12.5%) patients; smokers were 83 (30.5%); and comorbidities
were present in 107 (39.3%) patients. Improvement of symptom scores during treatment and
one month after its suspension was extremely significant (p<0.000).

Conclusion:

This large study found that nutraceutical formulation could be one of the tools for an
empirical approach to treat patients with FD, especially when a non-conventional drug treatment is
preferable for the patient and considered suitable by the physician.
Novel Benzyloxyphenyl Pyrimidine-5-Carbonitrile Derivatives as Potential Apoptotic
Antiproliferative Agents
Authors: Ibrahim Tarek , Youssif Baha G.M. , AL-Mahmoudy Amany , Hassan Alaa , Taher Ehab , Tantawy Mohamed , Abdel-Aal Eatedal , Osman Nermine
Published: June 2021

Background:

Pyrimidine-5-carbonitrile has a broad spectrum of biological activities such as antiviral, antioxidant,
and anticancer activities. Among similar compounds, monastrol is the most prominent cell-permeant inhibitor
of mitosis; therefore, we investigated the new Pyrimidine-5-carbonitrile as a cytotoxic agent for the p53 pathway.

Objective:

Several new benzyloxyphenyl pyrimidine-5-carbonitrile derivatives were designed, synthesized, and characterized,
and their cytotoxicity was evaluated. The most active compounds were tested for their activity against p53 as a
mechanistic target for antiproliferative action.

Method:

The key intermediate tetrahydropyrimidine-5-carbonitrile derivative 4 was prepared by a multicomponent
reaction (MCR) of the Biginelli type. S-alkylation of the key intermediate with the required alkyl or aralkyl halides or
refluxing 4 with POCl3 followed by an amino acid yielded the target compounds. The cytotoxicity of 5c-e, 7a-c, 9, 10a,
b, and 11 was evaluated using the A549 cell line of human lung adenocarcinoma, HepG2 liver cell line, and MDAMB-
231 cell line of breast cancer using the MTT assay. The transcription effects of 7a, 7c, and 11 on the p53 were
assessed and compared with the reference doxorubicin.

Results:

Compounds 7a, 7c, and 11 have the highest cytotoxic effect when applied to most cancer cells. The tested
compounds with 5-FU showed a significant increase in the anticancer activity more than 5-FU alone. Compounds 7a,
7c, and 11 increased the level of active caspase 3 by 4-6-fold compared to untreated control cells in the human liver
cancer cell line (HepG2). Compounds 7a, 7c, and 11 increased the levels of caspase 8 and 9, indicating activation of
both intrinsic and extrinsic pathways and showing potent induction of Bax, down-regulation of Bcl-2 protein levels,
and over-expression of Cytochrome C levels in HepG2 cell lines. Compound 11 exhibited cell cycle arrest at the Pre-
G1 and G2/M phases in the cell cycle analysis of the HepG2 cell line. The results revealed an increase of 12.40-19.10
in p53 level compared to the test cells and that p53 protein level of 7a, 7c, and 11 was significantly inductive (636,
861, and 987 pg/mL, respectively) in relation to doxorubicin (1263 pg/mL).

Conclusion:

Pyrimidine-5-carbonitrile derivatives have potent apoptotic and antiproliferative properties.
Green Microwave-assisted Synthesis of ZnO-Ag Nanocomposite using Clove Oil (Syzygium aromaticum L.) and Its Bioactivity against Staphylococcus aureus
Authors:   Department of Chemistry, Brawijaya University, Dhiaul Iftitah Elvina , Wahyu Aji Wibowo Rizki ,   Department of Chemistry, Brawijaya University, Masruroh Masruroh ,   Department of Physics, Brawijaya University, Nisyak Khoirun ,   STIKES Anwar Medika
Published: June 2021

Microwave-assisted synthesis of zinc oxide-silver (ZnO-Ag) nanocomposite using clove (Syzygium aromaticum L.) oil has been investigated. Variation of solvents and irradiation time of microwave was studied. The product characterization was carried out using XRD, FT-IR, and SEM-EDS. The XRD analysis indicates ZnO-Ag nanocomposite has a polycrystalline structure. The ZnO peak was detected at 2θ = 31.99; 34.58 and 68.05, whereas the Ag peak was detected at 2θ = 38.36 and 44.49. The increasing of irradiation time reduces the crystallite size, and generally has size range between 9 and 12 nm. SEM-EDS confirmed the existence of the ZnO-Ag nanocomposite with percentage of Zn (46.89%), O (29.72%) and Ag (23.39%). Moreover, antibacterial evaluation on Staphylococcus aureus give the inhibition zone in 13.3 mm. This result slightly gives better activity than the reference.
Isolation and Elucidation Structure of 28-Hydroxy-3-Friedelanone of Nyamplung (Callophyllum inophyllum, Linn.) Leaves
Authors:   Chemistry Departement, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Universitas Sebelas Maret, Kusumaningsih Triana , Widyo Wartono Muhammad ,   Chemistry Departement, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Universitas Sebelas Maret, Puji Wijanarti Nais ,   Chemistry Departement, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Universitas Sebelas Maret
Published: June 2021

The isolation triterpenoid from Nyamplung (Callophyllum inophyllum, Linn.) leaves has been conducted. The isolation was employed by maceration using ethanol as solvent and liquids extraction using ethyl acetate. Ethyl acetate extract was partitioned successively using nonpolar solvent with hexane, dichloromethane, and diethyl ether, respectively. The diethyl ether extract was purified by column chromatography. The isolated compound of fraction D1 was obtained as white solids crystal with yield of 0.0035%. The isolated compound was determined based on the FTIR, 1HNMR, 13CNMR, HSQC, and HMBC spectra. The isolated compound was identified as 28-hydroxy-3-friedelanone.
The Rise of Neo-Illiberalism
Authors: Hendrikse Reijer
Published: June 2021

This paper expands on the notion neo-illiberalism, signifying a symbiosis between neoliberal capitalism and variegated illiberal nationalisms, offering deeper reflections on its geopolitics, key drivers, and conceptual puzzles. It is argued that the West has entered an age of political illiberalization, replicating political operating logics of variegated illiberal(izing) regimes elsewhere, corroding domestic institutions and the western-dominated international liberal order, constituting an historic geopolitical shift. Although centrist parties have been variably attracted to the far right, particularly seeing center-right parties reinvent themselves as nationalist challengers to the ‘globalist’ status quo, in power they mostly radicalize the neoliberal encasement of capital, transforming a range of liberal-democratic institutions, procedures, and rights into illiberal political fortifications. Neoliberalism’s illiberal mutation is being realized amidst the intersections of rampant financial offshoring and digitization defining contemporary capitalism, allowing billionaire-class factions to ‘hack’ liberal-democratic governments and operating systems. With the rollout of data-driven technologies increasingly requiring the rollback of liberal protections by design, the fusion of digitizing capitalism and illiberal nationalisms is increasingly escaping accepted notions of liberalism.