bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Interconnection Family Education and Social Education Toward Social Harmony in the Interfaith Society
Authors: Zaim Zaimudin
Published: October 2024

This research aims to prove the importance of the interconnection between family education and social education to build social harmony in interfaith communities. The research method used is a survey using a structured questionnaire as a data collection instrument. Data collection was carried out through observation, interviews and documentation. The data collected is qualitative data in the form of social phenomena in the form of education carried out by families and communities in an integrated manner. The research results show that there is a continuous interconnection between family education and social education in building harmony between religious communities. Families and communities work collaboratively to provide education to form an attitude of tolerance towards other religious groups. The conclusion of this research is that the interconnection of family education and social education is an important factor in building harmony between religious believers. Therefore, in an effort to promote inter-religious harmony in society, it is important to strengthen the interconnection between family education and social education.
Implementasi Program Adiwiyata terhadap Sikap Peduli Lingkungan pada Siswa SMAN 4 Bogor
Authors: Novrizal Alfian
Published: October 2024

The Adiwiyata program implemented in schools can help create conditions for schools to become comfortable, good and culturally environmentally friendly places to study. The Adiwiyata program implemented at SMAN 4 Bogor is supported by activities that support the school to help and foster an attitude and sense of caring for the environment. Activities carried out in collaboration with all school members in order to increase awareness of the cleanliness and comfort of the school environment. The research carried out aims to find out and obtain information about how the Adiwiyata Program is implemented at SMAN 4 Bogor. This research uses a qualitative descriptive research method as well as data collection techniques using several instruments consisting of interview activity data, documentation and observation. The results of this research show that SMAN 4 Bogor in implementing the Adiwiyata Program towards environmental caring attitudes in students can be said to be categorized as good and achieved, this is based on learning activities to the formation of Adiwiyata ambassadors and Adiwiyata cadres to help students in efforts to increase environmental caring attitudes.Keywords: Adiwiyata Program, Environmental Care Attitude, Students
Pengaruh Aplikasi Google Earth terhadap Kemampuan Berpikir Spasial Siswa pada Mata Pelajaran Geografi Kelas X di SMA Nurul Falaah Gunung Sindur
Authors: Adelina Nurul , Ardiansyah Andri Noor , Bahar Syairul
Published: October 2024

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui pengaruh media pembelajaran geografi berbasis teknologi geospasial yaitu Google Earth terhadap kemampuan berpikir spasial siswa SMA Nurul Falaah Gunung Sindur. Metode penelitian yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini adalah Metode Eksperimen Semu (Quasi Eksperiment) dengan desain penelitian Nonequivalent Control Group Design. Pengambilan sampel dilakukan dengan teknik Purposive Sampling. Sampel dalam penelitian ini adalah peserta didik kelas X.1 sebagai kelas eksperimen yang diberikan perlakuan media pembelajaran aplikasi Google Earth dan kelas X.2 sebagai kontrol yang diberi perlakuan media pembelajaran Microsoft Power Point dan LKS. Pengambilan data menggunakan instrumen pretest dan posttest berbentuk pilihan ganda dan angket yang telah diuji validitas dan reliabilitasnya, dan observasi. Hasil dari penelitian ini yaitu terdapat pengaruh aplikasi Google Earth terhadap kemampuan berpikir spasial siswa di kelas X.1 SMA Nurul Falaah Gunung Sindur. Perolehan rata-rata posttest kelas eksperimen sebesar 82,12 dan kelas kontrol sebesar 62,22. Analisis data menggunakan uji Paired Sample T-Test dari data hasil perhitungan diperoleh taraf signifikansi (Sig.) sebesar 0,000 karena signifikansi lebih kecil dari 0,005 (0,000 < 0,005), maka Ho ditolak dan Ha diterima. Artinya terdapat pengaruh aplikasi Google Earth terhadap kemampuan berpikir spasial siswa.Kata kunci: Media Pembelajaran, Aplikasi Google Earth, Kemampuan Berpikir Spasial
INNOVATIVE APPROACHES TO ARABIC VOCABULARY LEARNING FOR ISLAMIC SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS WITH LECTORA INSPIRE
Authors: Hijriyah Umi , Edi Relit Nur , Erlina Erlina , Kesuma Guntur Cahaya , Saâ€™ad Ibrahim Khodr Tamer
Published: October 2024

Mastering vocabulary is essential for language acquisition, particularly in Arabic. This study aims to develop and evaluate the feasibility and effectiveness of AVLI (Arabic Vocabulary on Lectora Inspire) for grade X students at Baitul Jannah Integrated Islamic High School. Employing a research and development approach, this study utilized the ADDIE development model, which includes analysis, design, development, implementation, and evaluation phases. Data were collected through documentation, observation, interviews, questionnaires, and tests. The findings revealed that the Lectora Inspire-based mufradat learning media is deemed feasible, achieving a feasibility test score of 75% from material expert validators and 90% from media validators. User feedback was positive, with 86% of 106 respondents finding the learning media engaging. Moreover, AVLI proved effective in enhancing mufradat learning, evidenced by an increase in average student scores from 65.5 on the pretest to 85.5 on the posttest, a rise of 30 points. Consequently, this study concludes that Lectora Inspire-based learning media is both feasible and effective for teaching mufradat to grade X students, highlighting its potential implications for Arabic language education.
Kafka’s Soup
Authors: Crick Mark
Published: October 2024

Probably the most entertaining English cookery book of 2005, which to my chagrin I did not discover until 2006 (via Barbara Santich), was Kafka’s Soup. A complete history of world literature in 14 recipes by the London artist and photographer Mark Crick (Libri Publications, £9.99). Each recipe is written in the voice of a giant of global culture (Jane Austen, Raymond Chandler, Borges, Chaucer, Homer, Woolf, de Sade, etc.); the illustrations, too, are amusing and intelligent parodies. An American edition is out this winter (Harcourt) and a French translation is in the pipeline. Mark Crick has kindly given us permission to print his variations on a theme of Proust.
French News
Authors: Crosskey Peter
Published: October 2024

The author surveys current and recent French government policies that affect that country's agricultural and food worlds.
Education and Economic Empowerment: How Political Policies Shape the Future of Youth Employment
Authors:   Africa International University, Karen, Nairobi, Kenya, Sele John Philip , Mukundi Mark B.
Published: October 2024

This article examines the complex interactions that exist between political policy, economic empowerment, and education, with a particular emphasis on how these interactions may affect young employment in the future. Education is essential in today’s dynamic global economy because it gives young people the skills they need to succeed in the workforce. However, the political climate frequently affects how well educational programs promote economic empowerment. Through an analysis of labour market regulations, youth employment initiatives, and national education reforms, this research illustrates how political frameworks impact access to high-quality education and chances for economic success. The article highlights the main obstacles to and prospects for achieving employment requirements alignment between educational achievements and case studies from industrialized and developing countries via a critical examination. To encourage youth-centric policies that support inclusive, egalitarian, and sustainable economic growth, the study ends with recommendations for policymakers.
The Role of Heads of Departments (HODs) in University Management: Leadership and Accountability in Academic Success
Authors:   KAG- East University, Kenya, Ngare Rose
Published: October 2024

The important role that heads of departments (HODs) play in university administration is examined in this article, with particular attention paid to their responsibility and leadership duties in promoting academic achievement. HODs now have a major role in determining the operational results and strategic direction of their departments as well as the evolution of academic institutions and the conventional administrative roles that they once held. Successful HODs strike a balance between administrative and academic responsibilities, fostering a climate that supports academic performance via transformative and collaborative leadership approaches. But along with this leadership comes a big accountability burden: HODs must make sure that faculty performance, research, and teaching meet high standards. The tactics that HODs may use to improve their leadership skills and maintain accountability are discussed in this article. These tactics include professional development, delegating, and fostering a transparent culture. The article also discusses the difficulties HODs encounter, including those related to institutional politics and resource limitations, which can make it difficult for them to carry out their duties in an efficient manner. This article provides a thorough understanding of the function of HODs in university administration and their vital role in ensuring the academic success of their institutions through a combination of theoretical ideas and real-world experiences.
The Impact of Head-Teachers’ Leadership on Quality Management in Early Childhood Education Centers: A Case Study of Kajiado County, Kenya
Authors:   KAG- East University, Kenya, Ngare Rose
Published: October 2024

This research examines how the leadership of head teachers affects quality control in Early Childhood Education (ECE) facilities located in Kajiado County, Kenya. Headteachers have a crucial role in managing resources, implementing effective teaching strategies, and creating an atmosphere that supports early childhood education. This study uses a mixed-methods approach to investigate how head teachers’ management and leadership styles affect staff motivation, student results, and the general quality of education. The results highlight important leadership issues facing the industry, including a lack of training, little government assistance, and sociocultural elements that influence early childhood education in remote areas. With suggestions for legislative changes and capacity-building programs aimed at improving Kajiado County’s educational standards, this study advances knowledge of leadership in the context of ECE centres.
A digital Higgs universe and the flow of time
Authors:   Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, Lynch James F.
Published: October 2024

Theoretically considering velocities greater than c implies considering an observer’s past and extends the overall analysis into the complex plane. By using a series of rotations by i in the complex plane at the Planck scale, one can create a four-lobed structure of “instants of time,” which together with considering matter and antimatter in the lobes and the +/- sense of the rotation, leads to a Higgs field representation of spacetime. A metric is developed for this system as well as a generalized spacetime interval. It is shown that the Friedmann Equations are consistent with our “Higgs Cosmology” if generalized to a set of gravitationally coupled equations that connect the forward and backward going solutions. Simple solutions for the forward and backward going universes are presented and are shown to be consistent with the backward solution providing both inflation and a “cosmological constant” type of dark energy. Dark matter is discussed and is separately hypothesized to be due to the mass of the four “Higgs sectors” as seen by an observer in our universe. A digital, stroboscopic and holographic universe picture emerges which can also be viewed as a beginning theory of quantum gravity at the Planck scale.
Mechanical and tribological behavior of NFRCs: a comprehensive analysis of properties and applications
Authors: Tyagi Ankit , Gupta Bachchu Lal , Mukhija Loveleena , Bhandari Manish , Meena Amit , Meena SL
Published: October 2024

Researchers globally are placing greater importance on the creation of novel materials that enhance environmental quality to meet the rising need for sustainable materials. The need for composites constructed from raw natural fibers and polymer matrices has generated considerable attention, resulting in it becoming a prominent study field. Natural fiber reinforced composites (NFRCs) offer a practical substitute for synthetic materials that are harmful to the environment, thereby aiding in the reduction of pollution problems. These composites are economically efficient, demonstrate exceptional mechanical characteristics, and necessitate minimal energy use during manufacturing. In addition, the inclusion of such materials in building can improve sustainability by decreasing construction waste. This study commences by presenting a comprehensive examination of the many classifications, benefits, and difficulties associated with NFRCs, offering a concise portrayal. Subsequently, the paper explores mechanical, tribological, and thermal properties of NFRCs. The paper also provides a concise overview of the utilization of NFRCs in construction, constructions, buildings, biomedical and pharmaceutical sectors, furniture and architecture, as well as several other industries. Researchers and experts have recently witnessed a substantial swell in the development of NFRCs.
Study on the performance of cast in situ concrete wet joints in PCSBs under cyclic loading
Authors: Su Han , Li Wentao , Huang Zhenkun , Liu Sen , Du Jinsheng , Wang Jian
Published: October 2024

The wet joint is usually adopted in the closure section of precast concrete segmental bridges (PCSBs); the regular longitudinal reinforcement is discontinuous, which makes this section the most vulnerable part. To study the performance of the wet joint in the closure section under cyclic loading, six specimens are tested, considering loading mode, interface treatment method, setting of regular reinforcement and prestressing. Results show that the damage of the wet joint accumulates and plasticity develops under cyclic loading; the specimens undergo residual deformation, strength attenuation and stiffness degradation. Increase in prestressing level can delay cracking; the cracking load of specimens with a prestressing level of 8 MPa and 10 MPa is 21.9% and 32.8% higher, respectively, than that of the specimen with a stress level of 6 MPa; the results also confirm that an excessive prestressing level cannot significantly improve the shear strength of specimens. When the controlled displacement is small, the residual deformation of the specimen is small and the strength attenuates slowly; with the increase in controlled displacement, the residual deformation of the specimen increases and speeds up, the strength decreases continuously and the development of the crack tends to be stable, leading to a levelling off in the degradation of stiffness.
Elections of the 45th President of the USA: Key Features, Techniques, Results
Authors:   The Russian Presidential Academy of National Economy and Public Administration, Irhin Iouri V. ,   Russian State University for the Humanities
Published: October 2024

Introduction. The relevance of the paper is determined by systematic features of the 45th US President elections which led to the unexpected results for researchers, politicians and a large number of citizens and has led to a certain division of American society. Aims. The paper serves to identify and consider the key features of the 45th US President elections.Methods. The methods of comparative, systemic, structural-functional, institutional, and psychological approaches are used to review the features of the presidential campaign and the policies of the candidates for the post of the US President. Behavioral, communication and postmodernist approaches, as well as the A. J. Lichtman methodology from “The 13 Keys To The White House”, participant observation, special Big Data methods, special allocation and study of the “vibrating” state as the key factor of the final stage of the presidential electorate campaign are applied to analyze the election strategies of candidates. Results. The election campaigns of the candidates for the US President from the Republican and Democratic Party were analyzed; a comparative analysis of their electoral programs is presented; the results of voting were studied.Conclusion. The paper reveals Tramps election potential: charisma, national industry-based development, support from the Republican Party, army circles, a highly professional team with a specialist in the sphere of “electronic democracy”. The paper shows different aspects of Clinton’s electoral strategy with its strong sides: the widest known, mighty supported by the Democratic Party, by B. Obama, the 44th US President, by world financial circles and neoliberal elites. Problems with health, scandals, insufficient work with important groups of voters can be referred to as the weak points.Two candidates represent two different futures for the United States: focus on the national industries, national state and realistic foreign policy, one the one hand, while one the other hand, focus on the power of the unlimited financial elites and supranational state, toughening of anti-Russian policy. The struggle between former candidates continues even after the election of the 45th President of the United States, often in aggressive forms and actions.The author offers new comprehensive approaches to the analysis and the forecast of the future presidential campaigns in the USA, which suggests 1) the effective use of A. J. Lichtman methodology from “The 13 Keys To The White House”; 2) learning factors of the “vibrating state” (14 key); 3) the wide used Big Data, networks and postmodernist technologies; 4) special attention to the brand and the leadership qualities of the candidates.
Assessment of regulatory costs of business in the field of control (supervisory) activities: A sociological analysis
Authors:   Russian Presidential Academy of National Economy and Public Administration, Yuzhakov Vladimir N. , Maslennikova Elena V. ,   Russian Presidential Academy of National Economy and Public Administration
Published: October 2024

The effectiveness of the control (supervision) reform is assessed by a number of indicators, but among them there are not enough indicators that indicate the attitude of citizens and businesses to the changes taking place. The use of sociological methods makes it possible to measure statistical data in the field of control (supervision) and the opinions of citizens and business representatives on the degree of achievement of the goals of state control and respond to existing problems in a timely manner. The aim of the article is to analyze the regulatory costs of business in interaction with control (supervisory) bodies and identify dynamics, problem areas and possible solutions. In March 2023, a sociological survey of business representatives was conducted, a multi-stage quota sample of 1000 people was used. Surveys using a similar methodology were implemented in 2017 and 2020–2022. Compliance with mandatory requirements by controlled persons requires not only resources, but also the perception of mandatory requirements as necessary and sufficient, leading to a reduction in the risks of harm. In 2023, the highest percentage of positive responses regarding the need for mandatory requirements is recorded. The survey of 2023, in comparison with the previous rounds, demonstrated a reduction in time spent on control (supervisory) activities. The results of the conducted research show that for 74.3% of the respondents, the operating mode of the organization remained unchanged during control (supervisory) activities. Since 2017, the share of respondents who had no material costs during the control (supervision) has increased by 9.8 percentage points. The average material costs per inspection amounted to 126.9 thousand rubles, which is higher than the value received in 2022. The share of business representatives who noted the fact of informal payments during control and supervisory activities decreased by 3.5 times compared to 2017. The tax burden, compared with the results of the previous surveys, has increased business costs over the past year. A more prosperous situation is observed in terms of the administrative burden on the business. The regulatory burden (its various components) over the past year, according to 45.2% of respondents, remained unchanged; 46.9% of respondents indicated an increase. An important tool can be an assessment of the application of mandatory requirements with an analysis of the most and least violated ones, which will allow for more targeted control and supervisory measures and will optimize business costs.
Fertility and mortality of the population of Udmurtia in the 1930s
Authors:   Udmurt State Agricultural University, Uvarov Sergey N.
Published: October 2024

The aim of the study was to examine the birth rate and mortality in Udmurtia in the 1930s. To date, almost no one has studied this topic. The objectives of the study include studying the reproduction rates of the population of Udmurtia and identifying factors influencing the dynamics of changes, as well as comparing the birth rate and mortality of the population of Udmurtia and the RSFSR/USSR. The scientific novelty lies in the fact that a large volume of previously unpublished materials is introduced into scientific discourse, a significant gap in Russian history is filled. The sources were mainly unpublished materials of the natural movement of the Statistical Office and office records of the health authorities of Udmurtia. The results of the study showed that the birth rate in Udmurtia was much higher than in the European part of the Soviet Union, especially in the first half of the 1930s. The main reasons for this are the national specifics of the region (a significant part of the population is Udmurts with increased birth rates), lower educational level of women, and a higher proportion of villagers. In turn, in the village of Udmurtia, the birth rate was higher than in cities (except 1937). In the second half of the decade, the birth rate in the republic decreased, approaching the all-Union indicator. It fell due to higher rates of urbanization, the spread of abortion, the famine of 1936 due to large-scale crop failure, which was as significant as in 1932/33. The mortality rate in Udmurtia was also much higher (except for 1933) than the all-Union one. The high mortality rate of the entire population was mainly due to significant morbidity, among the main causes of death exogenous. Mortality increased sharply during the hunger years. The thencurrent level of medical care was unsatisfactory. The shortage of medical workers was acute; their qualifications often raised questions. The allocated funds were not enough for the purchase of medicines and the necessary equipment. In the second half of the 1930s, the difference in mortality rates in the USSR and Udmurtia slightly decreased. Total mortality was greatly influenced by infant mortality. Its share was extremely high and it decreased very slowly throughout the 1930s. In the first place among the causes of infant mortality were gastrointestinal diseases due to poor nutrition. In the second place were congenital weakness and premature birth. They, in turn, were explained by the difficult working conditions of women in the workplace, as well as by the high percentage of mothers with syphilis, which was almost never detected or treated during pregnancy. In the third place were lung diseases caused by crowding and the spread of rickets due to a lack of vitamins. With a few exceptions, the natural population growth in Udmurtia was more significant than in the European part of the USSR. In addition, it was positive all these years, even in 1933.
Tax management and collection of municipal taxes in a district municipality of Loreto
Authors: Pinedo Geman Eber
Published: October 2024

The objective of the research was to establish the relationship between tax management and the collection of municipal taxes in a district municipality of Loreto. The methodology was quantitative, applied, non-experimental-cross-sectional and correlational, a questionnaire validated by expert judgment was administered to 40 employees of the tax administration management and sub-management of collections of the municipality, through the survey, allowing data collection. The results showed that the values of the sig. bilateral are 0.000, 0.000 and 0.000, they are lower than the 0.05 threshold. This proves that tax management, tax planning, transparency and accountability are significantly related to the collection of municipal taxes. However, taxpayer service and municipal tax collection are not related (sig. 0.520). It was concluded that tax management is significantly and highly related to the collection of municipal taxes in the district municipality of Loreto, 2023. This responds to the fact that efficient tax management is reflected in the capacity of the municipality to administer and collect taxes. in an appropriate and timely manner. This implies that the adoption of effective collection systems and fair application of tax rates are essential for management.
DEEPFAKE PORNOGRÁFICO NA SOCIEDADE DE RISCO CONTEMPORÂNEA: OS DESAFIOS DE REGULAMENTAÇÃO E CONTROLE DA INTELIGÊNCIA ARTIFICIAL
Authors: Gonçalves da Silva Lucas , Ribeiro Cardoso Henrique , Ribeiro de Faria Lucas
Published: October 2024

Este artigo analisa o problema do Deepfake pornográfico na sociedade moderna, quando imagens e vídeos íntimos e falsos, na maioria dos casos tendo mulheres como vítimas, são compartilhados na internet. Busca-se aferir se o cenário atual na utilização de inteligência artificial aumenta o risco social. O problema foi considerado relevante em razão do aumento na disponibilização de ferramentas de inteligência artificial que, cada vez mais, estão mais acessíveis ao público em geral e adquirindo capacidade de gerar conteúdo praticamente indistinguível da realidade. Através do método de pesquisa dogmático e com a análise de decisões judiciais e notícias divulgadas na mídia, pretende-se analisar se existe alguma forma de regulação criminal, cível ou tecnológica eficaz no uso das ferramentas disponíveis na internet para que menos conteúdo pornográfico falso seja gerado e, principalmente, compartilhado. O trabalho foi desenvolvido com o método dedutivo.
Effects of combined action of proline-rich peptides of human saliva with antimicrobial proteins
Authors: Sukhareva Maria S.
Published: October 2024

BACKGROUND: The substances that make up mixed saliva exhibit activity against bacteria, viruses and fungi. Among them are various cationic antimicrobial peptides: alpha- and beta-defensins, cathelicidins, histatins, but their concentration is relatively low. On the other hand, saliva widely contains a fraction of proline-rich proteins and products of their proteolysis — peptides, the functions of which currently remain poorly studied and unclear. The study of the antimicrobial activity of proline-rich proteins, in particular, when they act together with antimicrobial peptides, and the deciphering of the molecular and cellular basis for the implementation of the protective functions of proline-rich peptides is an urgent task in medicine and biology. The data obtained will help to understand the mechanisms of anti-infective protection of the oral cavity with the participation of the innate immune system, and in the future will allow the creation of drugs based on proline-rich proteins in humans and animals.
AIM: Study of the individual antibacterial action of proline-rich salivary proteins, their combined action with the antimicrobial proteins lactoferrin and lysozyme, as well as with one of the most significant endogenous protective peptides — cathelicidin LL-37 on the formation of bacterial biofilms.
MATERIALS AND METHODS: Human lactoferrin and egg lysozyme were used in the work. The minimum inhibitory concentrations of peptides against gram-negative and gram-positive bacteria were estimated using serial dilutions in a liquid nutrient medium. Using serial dilutions using the “chessboard” method, it was shown that proline-rich proteins can increase the antibacterial activity of innate immunity peptides present in the oral cavity. The ability of combinations of cationic proline-rich peptides with cathelicidin LL-37 to prevent the formation of bacterial biofilms was studied.
RESULTS: In the presence of proline-rich peptides, the antimicrobial activity of some antimicrobial peptides and proteins present in saliva against planktonic bacteria increases. The combined action of proline-rich proteins with LL-37 increases the inhibition of bacterial biofilm formation.
CONCLUSIONS: As a result of the study, it was shown that the analyzed cationic proline-rich peptides of human saliva exhibit anti-inflammatory effects, which suggests their significant role in the regulation of inflammatory processes in the oral cavity, as well as their participation in recovery processes.
The influence of interleukin-4 on transendothelial transport of low-density lipoproteins
Authors: Saginbaev Ural R. , Voronkina Irina V. , Smagina Larisa V. , Evstigneeva Polina E. , Trulev Andrey S. , Sall Tatiana S. , Denisenko Alexander D. , Tanyansky Dmitry A.
Published: October 2024

BACKGROUND: Cytokines are important participants in the atherosclerotic process. The product of T-helpers and mast cells, interleukin-4, causes activation of endothelial cells and induces polarization of macrophages into anti-inflammatory M2 phenotype.
AIM: The aim was to study the influence of interleukin-4 on the activation of transendothelial transport of low-density lipoproteins.
MATERIALS AND METHODS: Low-density lipoproteins transendothelial transport was evaluated in a two-chamber model on a monolayer of human endothelial cell line EA.hy926. For that, 200 mkg/ml of low-density lipoproteins, and 1, or 10, or 100 ng/ml of interleukin-4, or 10, or 50 ng/ml of interleukin-6, or 50 ng/ml of tumor necrosis factor, or 10 ng/ml of interleukin-4 and 50 ng/ml of tumor necrosis factor, or a phosphate buffer saline were added to the cells on 24 h. The integrity of endothelial monolayer was controlled by the passage through 1 mkg/ml of fluorescein Na. The levels of mRNA and proteins in the cells were determined by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction and Western blotting, the activity of matrix metalloproteinases-1, -2 and -9 in the culture medium — by zymography, interleukin-6 and -8 concentrations — by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.
RESULTS: Interleukin-4 had no effect on the passage of low-density lipoproteins through the monolayer of endothelial cells in basal and tumor necrosis factor stimulation conditions. At the same time, interleukin-4 suppressed interleukin-8 secretion by cells and increased their production of interleukin-6. The latter also did not cause the changes in the permeability of endothelial monolayer. In addition, interleukin-4 did not affect the expression of CAV, SCARB1, ACVRL1 genes, encoding proteins involved in low-density lipoproteins transendothelial transport. An addition of interleukin-4 or -6 to the cells did not change the activity of the matrix metalloproteinases.
CONCLUSIONS: Interleukin-4 does not affect the transendothelial transport of low-density lipoproteins, while modulating the production of other cytokines by endothelial cells. In the future, it is necessary to establish the effect of a wider range of cytokines produced by intimal cells on low-density lipoproteins transendothelial transport, as well as to clarify the molecular mechanisms of influence of tumor necrosis factor on this process in order to identify new targets for atherosclerosis therapy.
Myelination deficiency in rats with genetically determined dopamine metabolism disorder
Authors: Kulikova Ekaterina D. , Traktirov Dmitry S. , Karpenko Marina N.
Published: October 2024

BACKGROUND: Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder is one of the most common neuropsychiatric disorders affecting children. The exact causes of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder are still not fully understood. Myelination deficiency in nerve fibers could be one of the possible factors in the pathogenesis of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Dopamine transporter knockout (DAT-KO) rats provide a good translational model for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder because they mimic behavioral symptoms of the disease: hyperactivity, cognitive impairment and compulsive behavior. This paper aims to determine abnormalities in the myelination process in the spinal cord of DAT-KO rats. Our findings can lead to a better understanding of the etiology and pathogenesis of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.
AIM: To determine the mRNA expression levels of myelination-related genes in the spinal cord of dopamine transporter knockout (DAT-KO) rats during their natural development.
MATERIALS AND METHODS: The study was performed on 72 rat pups (DAT-KO, DAT-HET, DAT-WT) from 12 litters. Rat pups were born from the pairs of intercrossed DAT-HET x DAT-HET adult rats. Pups were decapitated on 7th, 14th and 21st day of their postnatal development. After that, mRNA levels of the main myelination-related genes were measured in the cervical and lumbar segments of the spinal cord using real-time PCR.
RESULTS: The mRNA levels of the mag, olig2 and plp1 genes were significantly different in the cervical and lumbar spinal cords of DAT-KO rats compared to DAT-WT animals. A significant increase in the level of mag gene mRNA in DAT-HET and DAT-KO animals was observed on 14th and 21st days of postnatal development. Also, in these animals, the olig2 mRNA levels were increased on the 21st day of postnatal development. The plp1 mRNA level was increased on the 14th day, and reduced on the 21st day of postnatal development in DAT-KO animals.
CONCLUSIONS: Myelination deficiency in nerve fibers in the spinal cord of DAT-KO rats is one of the effects of gene knockout. It is also of the possible causes of behavioral changes — hyperactivity, cognitive impairment and compulsive behavior.
Comparison of silver nanoparticles and AgNO3 toxic effects on Caenorhabditis elegans with a genetic disorder of copper metabolism
Authors: Samuseva Polina D. , Tschukina Anna D. , Baikina Sofia A. , Mekhova Alexandra A.
Published: October 2024

BACKGROUND: Silver nanoparticles are widely used in various types of industry, but their safety for humans has not been strictly proven. The experimental data currently available on the comparison of the toxic effect of silver nanoparticles and AgNO3 are contradictory and the question of the priority use of silver nanoparticles remains open, especially for organisms with impaired copper metabolism.
AIM: The main aim of this study is to compare the effects of silver nanoparticles and AgNO3 on the nematode with normal and impaired copper metabolism and draw conclusions about their toxicity.
MATERIALS AND METHODS: In this work, we determined the sublethal concentration (LC50) of AgNPs and AgNO3 for H828Q nematode strain. Using the results obtained, we performed the development assay, thrashing assay and lifespan analysis of the animals.
RESULTS: It has been shown that LC50 of silver nanoparticles is lower than the one for AgNO3. Caenorhabditis elegans with impaired copper metabolism treated with silver nanoparticles have a statistically significant reduction in development, level of mobility and lifespan, comparing to animals treated with AgNO3.
CONCLUSIONS: The results obtained allow us to conclude that the toxic effect of silver nanoparticles on C. elegans with a genetic defect in copper metabolism is higher comparing to ionic silver.
The participation of monoamines in the realization of vasopressin analgesic effects during electrical stimulation of paws in rats
Authors: Nikitina Alexandra A. , Belokoskova Svetlana G. , Maystrenko Victoria A. , Pestereva Nina S. , Tyutyunnik Tatiana V. , Karpenko Marina N. , Tsikunov Sergey G.
Published: October 2024

BACKGROUND: Arginine vasopressin has been implicated in the modulation of stress and pain. The influence of a synthetic analogue of arginine vasopressin, 1-deamino-8-D-arginine-vasopressin, оn pain sensitivity, stress reactivity, levels of monoamines and brain neurotrophic factor in a model of paw electrical stimulation in rats has not been studied.
AIM: The aim was to evaluate the effect of a synthetic vasopressin analog, 1-deamino-8-D-arginine-vasopressin, on pain sensitivity and the content of norepinephrine, serotonin, dopamine, brain neurotrophic factor in the parietal cortex and spinal cord in electrocutaneous paw stimulation test in rats.
MATERIALS AND METHODS: The study was conducted on male Wistar rats who were injected with 1-deamino-8-D-arginine-vasopressin intranasally once a day for 5 days in small (single 20 ng, course 100 ng) and large doses (single 2 ug, course 10 ug). The content of brain neurotrophic factor in the parietal cortex and spinal cord, and corticosterone in blood serum were determined using enzyme immunoassay. The levels of norepinephrine, serotonin, dopamine and their metabolites in the brain were evaluated using high-performance liquid chromatography.
RESULTS: 1-Deamino-8-D-arginine-vasopressin in different doses reduced pain sensitivity in rats, more pronounced when administered in large doses. The peptide in small doses in the parietal cortex increased the content of dopamine and reduced the levels of 5-hydroxyindolacetic acid, a metabolite of serotonin; in the spinal cord, it reduced the content of 5-hydroxyindolacetic acid. 1-Deamino-8-D-arginine-vasopressin in high doses in the parietal cortex increased the content of dopamine and reduced the levels of 5-hydroxyindolacetic acid; in the spinal cord ― reduced the content of serotonin and 3,4-dihydroxyphenylacetic acid, a metabolite of dopamine; increased the levels of norepinephrine and homovanilic acid, a metabolite of dopamine. The peptide had no effect on corticosterone levels in the blood and brain neurotrophic factor levels in the brain in rats.
CONCLUSIONS: The analgesic effects of 1-deamino-8-D-arginine-vasopressin were revealed with intranasal administration in different subendocrine doses. Regardless of the administered doses, dopamine and serotonin at the supraspinal level were involved in peptide-induced anesthesia; serotonin at the spinal cord level. More pronounced analgesia with the administration of 1-deamino-8-D-arginine-vasopressin in high doses was due to the additional involvement of dopamine and norepinephrine at the spinal cord level.
A low-cost device for measuring TEER at cultivation of epithelial/endothelial cells on inserts.
Authors: Voronkina Irina V. , Smagina Larisa V. , Ivanova Anna A. , Sall Tatyana S. , Adamyan Yury E.
Published: October 2024

Background: The barrier properties of epithelial and endothelial cells are usually studied in vitro when cells are cultured on mesh inserts in culture plates, and it is necessary to assess the state of the cell monolayer on the membrane of the inserts before the experiment. Typically, monolayer density is analyzed by passing a fluorescent label through the insert with cells or by measuring the transendothelial resistance (TEER) of the cell layer. Many studies use both methods of assessing monolayer integrity in parallel, depending on the purpose of the study. The TEER method also allows to record early changes in the monolayer state under the action of various substances.
Aim of this work is to demonstrate the possibility of TEER measurements using the proposed device (conductometer) made from freely available components using endothelial/epithelial cells as an example.
Materials and Methods. A device (conductometer) for measuring TEER, created on the basis of easily accessible components, is presented. The device was tested by culturing two cell lines – hybridoma of endothelial origin Ea.hy926 and human colon adenocarcinoma Caco-2. Caco-2 cells were cultured for 22 days and Ea.hy926 cells were cultured for 7 days. The integrity of the cell monolayer and the density of intercellular contacts were evaluated by the TEER value determined by the proposed conductometer, as well as by the fluorescein permeability of the cell monolayer.
Results: The results of TEER measurements using the proposed device and at the same time, the fluorescein permeability of the cell monolayer during the cultivation of Caco-2 and EA.hy926 cells are presented. For Caco-2 cells from the moment of 100% confluence the TEER value gradually increased reaching maximum values by 20-21 days, after which it decreased slightly. The permeability values decreased as the cells were cultured, indicating the formation of dense contacts. For EA.hy926 cells the rise in TEER values are observed on day 3 and decrease was observed on day 7. The results of TEER and permeability obtained by the proposed conductometer have a strong inverse correlation for both cell lines and are in good agreement with each other.
Conclusions. The presented device, made on the basis of simple and affordable components, is similar to commercially available devices and can be used to study the integrity and density of a monolayer in the cultivation of epithelial/endothelial cells, to study the processes of trans/paracellular transport under the action of various substances, as well as in experiments with the co-cultivation of various cell lines.
A New Crustal Thickness and VP/VS Model of the Indochina Peninsula
Authors: Wen Zehuan , Yao Jiayuan , Huang Rong , Zhu Lupei , Cheng Shihua , Zhang Yaxi , Li Jianyong , Phetphouthongdy Boonphor , Morley Christopher K. , Tong Ping
Published: October 2024

The Indochina peninsula is formed by the collision of continental terranes, magmatic arcs, and suture zones due to the closure of the Palaeo-Tethys oceans during the Mesozoic and has experienced complex tectonic activities during the Cenozoic. Crustal thickness and VP/VS of the peninsula can help better understand its tectonics and formation, so we generate a new high-precision crust model for this region via the receiver function H−κ stacking method. The Khorat plateau has thicker crust (∼36.3 km) than other regions (∼32.4 km), whereas the elevation is similar (<500 m) or even lower. The poor correlation between crustal thickness and elevation suggests that there are other factors controlling the Khorat plateau elevation, for example, negative buoyancy of the lithosphere mantle. High crustal VP/VS (1.79–1.83) observed in southern Khorat plateau and southeastern Indochina Terrane indicates a mafic crustal composition that is consistent with extensive Late Cenozoic basaltic volcanism. Furthermore, our new model reveals high crustal VP/VS (1.81–1.95) in the east of the Nan suture and north of Khorat plateau, which could be interpreted as mafic–ultramafic intrusions in the continental back-arc basin east of the Sukhothai arc in the Late Palaeozoic. Our model does not support the existence of the eastward branch of the midlower crustal flow of the Tibetan plateau because a crustal weak layer would be too thin or too dispersed to flow.
Herramientas legales para regular la dinámica social de protección del derecho a la vida y el uso de vacunas en medio de la crisis sanitaria a partir de la segunda ola de la pandemia en Perú
Authors: Vela-Vásquez Rodolfo , Ochoa-Navarro de Rodríguez Alejandra Isabel Fernanda
Published: October 2024

Desde finales del 2019, el mundo enfrentó una situación sanitaria compleja provocada por la COVID-19, que ha impactado en todos los sectores de la sociedad de manera preocupante; ocasionando cuarentenas en todo el mundo por lo que Estados tomaron como medida fundamental, y complementaria, el cierre de instituciones educativas, la priorización de los servicios médicos, la protección personal, el reordenamiento del transporte, entre otras. Estas cuarentenas focalizadas sin que exista una certeza de la eficacia de dichas medidas siguieron latentes con índice de contagios preferentemente incrementados a partir de la segunda ola de la pandemia. En esa situación la amplia mayoría de Estados latinoamericanos y organismos del mundo han apelado a todas las herramientas legales disponibles con el fin de regular la dinámica social de protección del derecho a la vida sin criterios técnicos legales debido a la inexperiencia que afectó inclusive respecto a la inoculación de vacunas en medio de la crisis sanitaria. Objetivo: Evaluar el contexto jurídico y social de la crisis sanitaria en Perú, a partir de las herramientas legales disponibles para realizar una aproximación a la normativa disponible preferentemente durante la segunda ola de pandemia. Metodología: La investigación lo ubicamos dentro del paradigma cualitativo, de diseño fenomenológico, de revisión narrativa basada en el análisis de leyes afines al caso reglamentario de utilización de las vacunas anti-COVID-19 en tiempos de la segunda ola que impactó en la máxima crisis sanitaria en Perú, con análisis sincrónico en países latinoamericanos. El tipo de investigación es básica desde el paradigma naturalista y crítico en su contexto. Los resultados muestran que se generaron diversos mecanismos legales para contener la segunda ola del COVID 19. Se concluye que el acceso a la salud es un derecho esencial en Perú, especialmente relevante durante la pandemia de COVID-19; se debate si el sector privado debe manejar la vacunación, lo que podría acelerar la inmunización nacional, aunque se requiere un marco regulatorio para garantizar la equidad y eficacia en este proceso.
The trend of higher-order multiple gestation in a tertiary hospital in South-South Nigeria
Authors: Iwo-Amah Rose Sitonma , Wekere Felix Clement C. , Ocheche Uduak , Awoyesuku Peter Abiye , Horsefall Faithwin , Bema Elizabeth
Published: October 2024

Background: Higher-order multiple (HOM) Gestations are pregnancies with three or more fetuses within the uterus at the same time.  The advent of assisted reproductive technology (ART) has caused an increase in its occurrence. Prevalence of naturally occurring HOM births is 1-7 per 10,000 deliveries. HOM are associated with adverse obstetric and perinatal outcomes, when compared with singleton births. In Nigeria, ART is gaining ground, after an initial reluctance. The aim of this study was to highlight the adverse obstetric and perinatal outcomes of HOM pregnancies and births in a tertiary hospital.
Methods: This was a retrospective study of 38 HOM pregnancies that delivered at the Rivers State University Teaching Hospital (RSUTH) between January 2019- December 2023. Relevant data was extracted from the patient’s hospital records. Data was entered into a pre-designed Proforma. Analysis was done using IBM.SPSS, version 25.
Results: A total of 9,538 deliveries took place within the study period. Two hundred and ninety (3.04%) were twin deliveries. Triplet deliveries were 33(0.35%). Quadruplets were a total of 4 (0.04%) and Quintuplets delivery was 1(0.01%). Prevalence of HOM births from this study was 3.7 per 1,000 deliveries. Complications associated with HOM deliveries for the parturient were anaemia (84.2%) and severe pre-eclampsia (42.12%). Perinatal complications were prematurity (92.12%), low birth weight (91.5%) and respiratory distress syndrome (90%).
Conclusions: There is an upward trend of HOM pregnancies due to ART, and advanced maternal age at conception. Proper antenatal care to prevent anemia, close monitoring of these pregnancies will help improve maternal and perinatal outcomes from HOM births.