bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Molecular mechanisms of action of curaxin CBL0137 on breast cancer cells in vitro
Authors: Popova V. G. , Lylova Е. S. , Bukina A. Yu. , Zimin K. A. , Khirin M. K. , Zhidkova Е. М. , Trapeznikova Е. S. , Yakubovskaya M. G. , Maksimova V. P. , Kirsanov К. I.
Published: December 2024

Introduction. Breast cancer (BC) represents a group of malignant neoplasms with various molecular profiles, which are characterized by aberrations in the mechanisms of epigenetic transcription regulation. One of these disruptions associated with a worse prognosis is the overexpression of the BET protein family, responsible for the interaction of transcription factors with histone-rich acetylated regions. Previously, for the multitargeted epigenetically active agent curaxin CBL0137 (CBL), we have shown the ability to inhibit the expression of BRD2, BRD3, BRD4 proteins in HeLa TI cells and BRD3, BRD4 proteins in BC cells.Aim. To analyze the molecular mechanisms of CBL0137 action on BC cells in vitro, including: 1) assessment of cytotoxicity, 2) analysis of the effect on the cell cycle, 3) assessment of the ability to trigger apoptosis, 4) cause DNA damage, and 5) analyze the effect on the expression of genes involved in proliferation, apoptosis and repair processes.Materials and methods. The cytotoxicity of CBL on BC cells (MCF7, MDA-MB-231, SKBR3) was assessed using the MTT assay. The effect of the agent on the cell cycle and activation of apoptosis was analyzed by flow cytometry. Analysis of DNA damage under the action of CBL was performed using the comet assay. Changes in the expression of genes associated with proliferation, repair and apoptosis were evaluated using real-time polymerase chain reaction.Results. The half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) on BC cells under the action of CBL0137 were 1 μM at 72-hour exposure, 14–25 μM at 24-hour. Curaxin CBL (0.5 and 1 μM) caused G2/M cell cycle arrest, and also triggered apoptosis in all cell lines. Under the action of 1 μM CBL, an increase in the degree of DNA damage in MCF7 and SKBR3 cells was recorded, and under the action of both concentrations in MDA-MB-231 cells. The gene expression profile involved in proliferation also corresponded to the arrest in the G2/M phase of the cell cycle. Also, under the action of CBL, the activation of p53-dependent repair genes occurred. An increase in the expression of pro-apoptotic and a decrease in anti-apoptotic genes was shown.Conclusion. Curaxin CBL0137 showed differential effects on molecular processes in BC cells. We have identified a cytostatic effect of the compound, confirmed at various molecular levels. The data obtained indicate the ability of CBL0137 to inhibit tumor processes in BC cells, which makes it a potentially interesting agent for combination therapy.
Changes in the expression of genes that regulate apoptosis as a factor in the development of chemoresistance in soft tissue sarcoma
Authors: Fetisov T. I. , Khazanova S. A. , Shtompel P. A. , Trapeznikova E. S. , Tararykova A. A. , Zinovyeva V. Yu. , Marshall V. I. , Lowenger A. A. , Kupaeva I. S. , Rogozhin D. V. , Bokhyan A. Yu. , Belitsky G. A. , Yakubovskaya M. G. , Kirsanov K. I.
Published: December 2024

Introduction. The active use of highly toxic chemotherapy in the treatment of soft tissue sarcomas determines the need to search for criteria and markers of chemoresistance of patients to the therapy.Aim. To study the connection between tumor cell resistance to chemotherapy and expression levels of apoptosis-regulating proteins (PUMA, PMAIP-1, PIDD-1, AIFM-2, Bax, GADD45a) in primary cultures of soft tissue sarcomas.Materials and methods. Primary cultures of soft tissue sarcomas were obtained using enzymatic digestion, cell death was evaluated using resazurine assay. Gene expression was measured using real-time polymerase chain reaction, protein levels using immunoblotting assay.Results. 73 primary cultures of soft tissue sarcomas were obtained, for which chemosensitivity to doxorubicin, ifosfamide, docetaxel, gemcitabine, pazopanib and their combinations was determined using a resazurin cytotoxicity test. Associations of AIFM-2 gene expression with resistance to pazopanib, doxorubicin and its combination with ifosfamide were found in liposarcoma, synovial and undifferentiated pleomorphic sarcomas. In addition, associations between the expression of the Bax, PUMA, PMAIP-1, GADD45a and PIDD-1 genes and resistance to the studied drugs in various nosological subgroups of sarcomas were identified. When studying the amount of protein, it was revealed that undifferentiated pleomorphic and synovial sarcomas with a low content of GADD45a are more resistant to the studied drugs. Liposarcomas with high Bax expression are more resistant to docetaxel and gemcitabine, while synovial sarcomas with high Bax expression are more sensitive to doxorubicin and ifosfamide.Conclusion. The data obtained indicate a relationship between the activity of the studied genes-regulators of apoptosis and resistance to drugs used in the treatment of soft tissue sarcomas.
Morphological paradigmatics of proper and foreign names of footwear in modern Ukrainian language
Authors:   National University of Kyiv-Mohyla Academy, Kyiv, Ukraine, LAVRINETS Оlena
Published: December 2024

Background. Since the beginning of the XXI century, Ukrainian linguistics has intensified the study of the morphological paradigm of nouns, taking into account several factors. The researchers focus not only on appellatives but also on propriatives of different classes and subclasses. The need for a comprehensive study of the declension system of footwear names is caused by the predominantly fragmentary representation in grammatical descriptions of the Ukrainian language of the morphological paradigm of these nouns and their often different grammatical characterization according to number category (nouns with grammatical singular and plural meaning / pluralia tantum nouns), as well as the emergence of new lexemes in the Ukrainian language that are not recorded in dictionaries, and their grammatical status, phonetic and graphic design, and word formation require unified regulation.

Methods. The study of more than 150 footwear titles used general scientific and linguistic methods: solid sampling, comparison, structural and distributional analysis, systematization, descriptive, statistical, and prognostication.

Results. The article identifies and describes 33 elementary paradigmatic classes of noun names of footwear taking into account relevant factors (full/incomplete case-number paradigm, belonging to a certain gender and gender variation, belonging to one of the cases or being outside them, belonging of nouns of the first and second declensions to hard, soft or mixed groups, identity of word-change affixes and their letter designation, morphonemic phenomena, including phoneme alternation and stress, case variant forms, phonetic and graphic variation, etc.). The nouns with homonymous forms are identified and the means of realizing their case-number semantics are elucidated. Elementary paradigmatic classes of footwear nouns, which have the status of pluralia tantum nouns and whose phonetic, graphic and grammatical development is ongoing, are proposed.

Conclusion. The obtained results can be used in the compilation of printed and electronic dictionaries, as well as in the unified representation of the morphological paradigm and phonetic and graphic design of noun names of footwear in current electronic dictionaries.
Caracterização dos sistemas familiares de produção de leite na região da Zona da Mata de Minas Gerais
Authors: Almeida Júnior Gercílio Alves de , Araujo Luiz Carlos de , Lopes Marcos Aurélio , Bassotto Leandro Carvalho , Carvalho Conrado Pedrosa Fragoso , Bruhn Fábio Raphael Pascoti
Published: December 2024

Objetivou-se, com este trabalho, analisar e caracterizar os sistemas familiares de produção de leite na região da Zona da Mata de Minas Gerais, sobre os aspectos agrícolas e de manejo alimentar, reprodutivo e de ordenha. Foram utilizados dados obtidos pela Emater-MG, contemplando 195 propriedades, analisados por meio do software SPSS®. Os resultados indicaram que as pastagens ocupavam a maior parte das áreas exploradas, encontrando-se, na maioria dos casos, degradadas, demonstrando a inexistência ou pouca adoção de práticas conservacionistas, como rotação, adubação e consorciação de culturas. Detectou-se que os índices zootécnicos e reprodutivos foram inferiores aos desejados. A produção média diária de leite por propriedade foi de 127,81 litros e os cuidados profiláticos durante a ordenha não eram realizados na maioria delas. Apesar da execução de diversas práticas importantes de manejo, há necessidade de aprimoramento no manejo do solo e pastagens, reprodução e ordenha, bem como de melhoramento genético dos planteis nas propriedades em estudo. Os sistemas apresentaram infraestrutura e recursos satisfatórios o que possibilita a melhoria do desempenho zootécnico e a permanência na atividade, sendo fundamental nesse processo a orientação técnica adequada à realidade de cada propriedade.
Tratamento de sementes com cobalto e molibdênio na germinação e crescimento inicial da soja
Authors: Boldrin Paulo Fernandes , Salles Lenise Selaysim , Oliveira Augusto Matias de , Silva Givanildo Zildo , Zuffo Alan Mario , Nascimento Cleyton da Silva
Published: December 2024

O cobalto (Co) e o molibdênio (Mo) são utilizados no tratamento de sementes visando melhorar a fisiologia das sementes e desenvolvimento inicial das plantas, mas é necessário identificar a melhor dose para cada cultivar, pois esses micronutrientes em excesso são prejudiciais as sementes e plantas. Assim, objetivou-se avaliar o efeito de doses de Co e Mo na qualidade fisiológica de sementes e no desenvolvimento inicial de plantas de soja. O teste de qualidade fisiológica foi desenvolvido em rolos de papel germitest e areia, utilizando-se cinco doses (0; 0,625; 1,25; 2,5 e 5 ml kg-1) de um produto contendo Co a 0,5% e Mo a 6% aplicadas em sementes de soja cultivares SYN1163 e M7739. O desenvolvimento inicial das plantas foi avaliado em vasos em casa de vegetação, utilizando-se os mesmos tratamentos do teste de qualidade fisiológica. O aumento das doses de Co e Mo aumentou o número de plântulas anormais e diminuiu a porcentagem de germinação de ambas as cultivares, sendo a cultivar SYN1163 a mais sensível ao Co e Mo. O aumento das doses beneficiou a altura de plantas, índice SPAD e número de trifólios das plantas. Embora a dose 5 ml kg-1 tenha proporcionado melhor desenvolvimento das plantas não se recomenda essa dosagem, pois prejudica a germinação das sementes, recomendando-se a dose de 0,625 ml kg-1 do produto para ambas as cultivares, o que corresponde a 0,25 g ha-1 de Co e 3,0 g ha-1 de Mo.
Uso de práticas agrícolas sustentáveis na produção de alface e cebolinha
Authors: Hernandes Fernanda Baptistella , Silva Maiele Leandro da , Andrade Isadora Luciano de , Linhares Paulo César Ferreira , Silva Rogério Ferreira da
Published: December 2024

O objetivo dessa pesquisa foi avaliar a cultura da alface e cebolinha sob diferentes coberturas do solo em sistema cultivo solteiro e consorciado. O experimento foi conduzido na área experimental da Universidade Estadual de Mato Grosso do Sul, Unidade Universitária de Aquidauana, no período de março a setembro do ano de 2021. O delineamento experimental adotado foi o em blocos casualizado em parcela subdividida, onde as parcelas foram os tipos de coberturas (milheto, feijão-de-porco, ruzizienses, plantas espontâneas, mulching dupla face branco e preto e sem cobertura) e as subparcelas foram os cultivos (solteiro e consorciado de alface e cebolinha). Para a cultura da alface foram realizados dois ciclos e uma análise conjunta dos dados. O manejo sem cobertura do solo obteve maior produtividade da alface no primeiro ciclo; o segundo ciclo da alface obteve maiores produtividades com as coberturas de feijão-de-porco, mulching dupla face branco e preto e plantas espontâneas. A cultura da cebolinha obteve maiores produtividades nas coberturas do solo com feijão-de-porco e com mulching dupla face branco e preto. Foi possível verificar pelo índice do uso eficiente da terra que o consórcio de alface e cebolinha é eficiente em todas as coberturas do solo utilizadas, e a forma de cultivo com maior índice foi com a cobertura de Brachiaria ruziziensis (2,57).
Escarificação do solo e plantas de cobertura de inverno em área de plantio direto
Authors: Conrado Aline Mariele Czekalski , Rampim Leandro , Prazeres Marco Segalla , Pott Cristiano André , Conrado Perivaldo Mateus Conrado , Lima Danilo Oliveira de Castro
Published: December 2024

A mobilização do solo restrita a linha de semeadura em área sob sistema de plantio direto (SPD) promove a reagregação e rearranjo da estrutura causando aumento da densidade do solo pelo tráfego de máquinas. O objetivo da pesquisa foi avaliar o efeito da escarificação associada ao uso de plantas de cobertura nos atributos físicos de um Latossolo Bruno em área de plantio direto. O estudo foi implantado em julho de 2017, ano que foi realizada a escarificação e semeadura do primeiro ciclo de plantas de cobertura. Os tratamentos foram formados por dois sistemas de manejo do solo: com escarificação e sem escarificação; e três combinações de plantas de cobertura: pousio (PO), nabo + aveia (NA) e mistura de plantas de cobertura (MX). Em três períodos foram determinadas a porosidade total (Pt), macroporosidade (Ma), microporosidade (Mi) e densidade do solo (Ds) em camadas diferentes. Aos vinte oito meses, o PO escarificado preservou maior volume de Pt e Ma na camada de 0,10-0,20 m de profundidade em relação ao nabo + aveia. Aos trinta e três meses, a escarificação manteve maior Ma na camada de 0,20-0,30 m de profundidade e no pousio escarificado na camada de 0,30-0,40 m em relação à nabo + aveia. Não existe efeito duradouro da escarificação do solo após quarenta meses, mas a mistura de plantas de cobertura promove aumento da Pt e redução da Ds restrito entre a camada de 0,10-0,20 m de profundidade.
Potencial da fertilização nitrogenada em pastagem natural diferida em mitigar o vazio forrageiro outonal
Authors: Ollé Franco de Almeida , Ferreira Otoniel Geter Lauz , Pedroso Carlos Eduardo da Silva , Farias Pâmela Peres , Azevedo Gabriela Maia de , Vaz Ricardo Zambarda
Published: December 2024

Avaliou-se por três anos a produtividade e valor nutricional de uma pastagem natural diferida e fertilizada no verão visando mitigar o vazio forrageiro de outono. Os tratamentos constaram de níveis crescentes de nitrogênio (N) na forma de sulfato de amônio (0, 20, 40, 60, 80, 100, 120, 140 kg ha-1 de N), dispostos em blocos completos ao acaso, com quatro repetições. O corte realizado no outono avaliou a massa de forragem seca (MFS), taxa de acúmulo de forragem (TAF), teor de matéria seca (MS) e teor de proteína bruta (PB). Os dados foram analisados através de ANOVA, teste de comparação de médias de Tukey e regressão polinomial (P?0,05). A fertilização nitrogenada proporcionou acréscimos de até 65% na MFS (1474,5 para 2454,9 kg ha-1 com aplicação de 77,4 kg ha-1 de N) e 100% na PB (66,18 para 132,08 g kg-1 com aplicação de 140 kg ha-1 de N) em anos com adequada disponibilidade hídrica. Houve aumento na TAF (+0,376 kg ha-1 dia-1 por kg ha-1 de N aplicado) e diminuição nos teores de MS (-1,218 g kg-1 por kg ha-1 de N aplicado) com o acréscimo dos níveis de N e da disponibilidade hídrica. A fertilização nitrogenada em pastagens naturais diferidas no verão possibilita mitigar o vazio forrageiro outonal através do incremento da sua produtividade e valor nutricional, sendo que em anos com restrições hídricas são necessários níveis mais altos de N para a otimização da resposta.
Evaluation of the effectiveness of combined therapy with intravenous immunoglobulin and plasmapheresis in patients with steroid-resistant form of pemphigus based on the cytokine and chemokine profiles assessment
Authors: Lepekhova Anfisa A.
Published: December 2024

BACKGROUND: Pemphigus is a serious life-threatening disease characterized by the formation of IgG autoantibodies against the cell membranes, leading to the formation of intraepidermal blisters.
AIM: To evaluate the effectiveness of combined therapy with intravenous immunoglobulin and plasma exchange for steroid-resistant patients with pemphigus based on the cytokine, chemokine and granulysin profiles investigation.
MATERIALS AND METHODS: The group of patients receiving systemic glucocorticoid monotherapy (Group 1; control group) consisted of 26 patients with pemphigus vulgaris. The group of steroid-resistant patients (Group 2; main group) who received combined therapy with systemic glucocorticoid, intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIg), and plasmapheresis included 15 people. The presence of steroid resistance was assessed by Murrell consensus (2008). All pemphigus patients received the initial dose of systemic glucocorticoids of 80–100 mg/day with subsequent slow tapering, according to guidelines. The treatment protocol for combined therapy included four sessions of discrete plasma exchange per week every other day. Immediately after completion of the plasma exchange cycle, IVIg was added to the ongoing treatment, with a total dose of 2 g/kg per cycle. The levels of IL-4, IL-10, IL-15, TNF-α, chemokines CXCL8, CCL11, and granulysin were assessed via ELISA method.
RESULTS: We observed some discrepancies in cytokine profiles in both groups of patients. In patients who received combined therapy, there was a statistically significant decrease in the levels of IL-4, IL-15, TNF-α compared to those in patients on systemic glucocorticoid monotherapy ― IL-4, IL-15 TNF-α (p 0.01). Notably, that the level of CCL11 in serum of steroid-resistant patients before the IVIg therapy was significantly higher (Me=51 pg/ml) compared to systemic glucocorticoid monotherapy group (Me=10 pg/ml; p 0.01). The level of granulysin after the treatment with IVIg and plasma exchange in group 2 was also significantly lower (Me=0 ng/ml) compared to the group of control (Me=2700 ng/ml respectively; p 0.01).
CONCLUSION: We found a trend towards higher serum levels of IL-4, IL-15, and CCL11 in steroid-resistant pemphigus patients who received combined therapy with IVIg and plasma exchange compared to the control group. Moreover, these cytokines can be considered as the potential biomarkers for refractory disease course, and might be used as therapeutic targets in the future. It should be also noted that the prolonged remission of patients receiving combined therapy with systemic glucocorticoid, IVIg, and plasma exchange, was on average two years.
Actual prevalence of obesity and its correlation with medical and social factors among the employed population in the Saratov region
Authors: Dolich Vladimir N. , Komleva Natalia E. , Pozdnyakov Mikhail V. , Mazilov Svyatoslav I. , Zaikina Inna V. , Lutsevich Igor N.
Published: December 2024

BACKGROUND: Obesity is a common, multifactorial disease that significantly contributes to other chronic noncommunicable diseases, which are the leading causes of premature mortality worldwide. The observed increase in the prevalence of obesity is attributable to a wide range of behavioral, medical, social, and biological factors.
AIM: To assess of the actual prevalence of obesity among the employed population in the Saratov region and its correlation with medical and social factors.
MATERIAL AND METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted to assess the prevalence of obesity among 3,721 employees, evaluating a range of medical and social factors, including sex, age, education, place of residence, physical activity, and risk factors for metabolic syndrome. The R programming language was used for statistical analysis. A probit regression model was created to determine the probability of obesity based on the presence or absence of specific factors.
RESULTS: A univariate analysis demonstrated a correlation between obesity and a number of medical and social factors, including sex, age, education, labor intensity, physical activity, and the risk factors for metabolic syndrome. A regression analysis revealed a lower prevalence of obesity among males engaged in physically demanding work and among females with a university degree. A regression analysis demonstrated a positive correlation between obesity and the markers of cardiometabolic risk, including an above-normal waist circumference, hyperglycemia, low HDL, and hypertension, in the overall study population and male participants. In the female cohort, the analysis identified an above-normal waist circumference and hypertension as correlates of obesity. The notable finding was that triglyceride levels were not associated with obesity in any of the groups. The study had several limitations, including those related to region (the Saratov region), age (working-age population), and occupational status (employed population).
CONCLUSION: A representative sample of the employed population in the Saratov region was used to establish the obesity prevalence patterns among males and females in various age groups. Additionally, the study identified the major medical and social risk factors for obesity. It is essential to consider the probability of a high body fat percentage among individuals with normal body weight and those who are overweight to prevent and mitigate cardiometabolic risks. The findings of this study are potentially beneficial for the creation of preventative strategies integrated into employee wellness initiatives focused on maintaining the wellbeing, quality of life and professional longevity of the employed population.
PRIMEIRAS OBSERVAÇÕES SOBRE OS PERFIS FISCAIS DOS ESPORTS NO PANORAMA JURÍDICO ITALIANO
Authors: Saponaro Fabio
Published: December 2024

O presente contributo retoma, com algumas adaptações, a intervenção do Prof. Fabio Saponaro na conferência “A fiscalidade internacional entre desporto, esportes eletrônicos e jogos”, organizada pela Universidade do Salento (Itália) no dia 7 de março de 2024. Um evento de relevância científica para o mundo dos esportes eletrônicos, que contou com a participação de estudiosos e especialistas da área, bem como a presença de autoridades esportivas e de esports italianas e internacionais.Um dos temas abordados durante a conferência foi precisamente o das problemáticas fiscais relacionadas ao fenômeno dos esportes virtuais, que já atingiram uma disseminação global. O fenômeno jurídico em questão, até o momento, foi regulamentado por poucos países (incluindo França, Coreia do Sul, Brasil, México), embora o caráter transnacional da atividade dos egamers exigisse uma regulamentação clara e coordenada do fenômeno no âmbito da fiscalidade internacional, considerando o risco concreto de dupla tributação internacional sobre os rendimentos produzidos.Na intervenção, partindo da definição jurídica de esportes eletrônicos e da identificação dos elementos caracterizadores do fenômeno também no campo tributário, examina-se o tratamento tributário destinado aos egamers na experiência italiana. Inicia-se pela disciplina fiscal doméstica, adaptada ao caso específico, para se chegar à interpretação das normas convencionais, bilaterais ou multilaterais, sobre a dupla tributação (geralmente em conformidade com o Modelo de Convenção da OCDE), que estão, indiretamente, interessadas em regulamentar o fenômeno em questão. No pano de fundo da contribuição, surgem algumas dúvidas quanto à pouca segurança jurídica com que o operador do direito se depara hoje ao falar de esports, bem como a oportunidade de, superada esta fase de transição, se alcançar em breve uma nova e mais complexa fase de regulamentação jurídica do fenômeno. Tudo isso, tanto a nível nacional (na Itália, sobre este tema, foi apresentado o Projeto de Lei n.º 970, “Regulamentação das competições de videogames”, em 19 de dezembro de 2023) quanto a nível supranacional e internacional, com a capacidade de garantir aos operadores um quadro de segurança jurídica que lhes permita melhor orientação, promovendo e apoiando, também, iniciativas públicas e privadas destinadas a contribuir para o desenvolvimento de um cenário europeu de esports mais competitivo em relação a outras experiências fora da Europa.A atualidade da contribuição é confirmada pelo recente anúncio do Comitê Olímpico Internacional (COI) de celebrar as primeiras Olimpíadas de esports em 2025, na Arábia Saudita.
Warfall: ensino de representação de imagens por meio de pixel art em jogo de tabuleiro
Authors: Cavalcante Juliete Lizandra dos Santos , Montalvão Augusto César Pereira da Silva
Published: December 2024

Este artigo apresenta o desenvolvimento, implementação e avaliação do jogo de tabuleiro Warfall, um RPG inspirado em quebra-cabeças de nonogramas. Adaptado para um formato desplugado, o jogo visa ensinar representação de imagens por meio de pixel art e promover o pensamento computacional entre alunos do ensino médio. Warfall permite que os alunos aprendam representação de imagens por meio de desafios baseados em nonogramas e desenvolvam habilidades de resolução de problemas sem precisar de computadores. O estudo avalia a eficácia do jogo como ferramenta educacional e sua recepção entre os alunos. A base teórica aborda o pensamento computacional, a capacidade de resolver problemas de forma lógica e sistemática, dividir questões complexas em partes menores, identificar padrões, criar soluções passo a passo e simplificar conceitos. Essa abordagem facilita a resolução de problemas em vários domínios, não apenas em tecnologia, mas também na vida cotidiana. Além disso, a pesquisa explora metodologias de ensino desplugado, que envolvem a introdução de conceitos de computação sem o uso de dispositivos eletrônicos. Essas metodologias empregam atividades práticas, jogos e desafios para ensinar lógica, algoritmos e pensamento computacional de forma acessível e interativa, permitindo que os alunos entendam como a computação funciona usando materiais simples. Os resultados indicam que a maioria dos alunos avaliou tanto a aula de pixel art quanto o jogo Warfall positivamente, reconhecendo suas contribuições para a compreensão dos conceitos ensinados. Em média, 63,5% dos alunos acharam o jogo útil para o aprendizado, e aproximadamente 70% recomendaram seu uso contínuo. Além disso, os participantes destacaram o prazer e o estímulo ao raciocínio lógico proporcionados pela dinâmica do jogo. A conclusão enfatiza a eficácia da computação desplugada como uma abordagem pedagógica viável em contextos com infraestrutura tecnológica limitada, ressaltando os benefícios do pensamento computacional para o desenvolvimento de habilidades de resolução de problemas e criatividade.
Assessment of Heavy Metals Accumulation Hazard in Estuarine Ecosystems During Polymetallic Ore Mining on Arctic Islands
Authors: Miskevich I.V. , Kotova E.I. , Moseev D.S.
Published: December 2024

The condition of river mouths of Vaygach Island (Nenets Autonomous Area), in particular the Krasnaya River, where in the first half of the last century lead-zinc ores were mined without observing nature protection measures and reclamation after the mine conservation. It was revealed that in the mouth of this river there is an accumulation of heavy metals in bottom sediments and aquatic vegetation. Lead content in algae was found to be 4.8 times higher than the sanitary norm. It is recommended that wastewater from mines should be discharged to deep sea areas with salinity over 20 ‰ or discharged into drainless thermokarst lakes, which have no ichthyofauna and freeze to the bottom in winter.
A Comparative Analysis of Healthcare Systems: Insurance-based vs. Government-sponsored
Authors: Alzahrani Malik Ali S
Published: December 2024

The provision of healthcare services is a fundamental aspect of any society, and the way in which these
services are financed and organized varies significantly across countries. Two predominant models exist
for healthcare systems: insurance-based systems and government-sponsored systems. This essay aims to
critically compare and analyze these two models by examining their key characteristics, advantages,
disadvantages, and overall effectiveness in providing accessible and affordable healthcare to citizens.
Keywords: healthcare systems, insurance-based, government-sponsored, comparison, accessibility,
affordability.
A Dosimetric Comparison of ICRU Point Based Doses with 2CC Volume Doses of Bladder and Rectum in CT Based Planning of Intracavitary HDR Brachytherapy in Carcinoma Cervix
Authors:   1 Senior Resident in Department of Radiation Oncology, MNJ IO RCC, Osmania Medical College, Aravind Dr Panasa
Published: December 2024

Aim: Main purpose of this study is to compare traditional ICRU bladder and rectum point doses with
Doses received to 2cc volume of bladder and rectum in CT based planning of HDR brachytherapy in
carcinoma cervix.
Materials & Methods: Collected data of thirty five patients for whom intracavitary High Dose
rate(HDR) brachytherapy planning done with a dose of 7Gy per fraction of total 3 fractions per patient
on basis of ICRU bladder and rectal points. Then contoured complete bladder and rectum and then using
DVH(Dose Volume Histogram) curves calculated D2cc, dose received by 2cm3 volume of the bladder and
rectum separately according to GEC- ESTRO guidelines. Then compared point doses with D2cc doses of
bladder and rectum using Pearson correlation test.
Results: Mean dose of bladder point and rectal point is 4.40Gy and 3.31Gy per fraction respectively. The
mean D2cc of Bladder and rectum is 6.63 and 4.70 respectively. Hence it found that mean D2cc of
bladder and rectum is 1.50 and 1.41 times the bladder and rectum point doses respectively.
Conclusion: Therefore this study suggests ICRU bladder and rectum points underestimates the
particular dosage received by bladder and rectum. There is a correlation between both point doses and
rectum doses. However bladder doses correlation is clinically significant while rectum doses are not
clinically significant.
Intranasal midazolam as an alternative to rectal diazepam for management of canine status epilepticus
Authors: Foxx Flora
Published: December 2024

Question
In canine patients in status epilepticus, is intranasal midazolam as effective as rectal diazepam for controlling seizures?
 
Clinical bottom line
The category of research question was:
Treatment.
 
The number and type of study designs that were critically appraised were:
One study was found—a multicentre randomised open-label clinical trial comparing intranasal midazolam and rectal diazepam in canine patients.
Critical appraisal of the selected papers meeting the inclusion criteria collectively provide zero/weak/moderate/strong evidence in terms of their experimental design and implementation:
Weak.
The outcomes reported are summarised as follows…
The study critically appraised in this summary indicated that intranasal midazolam is effective in achieving seizure control in canine patients, with tolerable safety margins. Mild adverse effects associated with benzodiazepine administration such as sedation and drowsiness were noted, but there were no reports of serious adverse events related to the use of intranasal midazolam.
In view of the strength of evidence and the outcomes from the studies the following conclusion is made…
Intranasal midazolam appears to be safe and effective for achieving seizure control in canine patients, both in terms of efficacy and speed of onset, and is a suitable first-line treatment option for status epilepticus, especially when intravenous access is not rapidly available. Patients should be monitored after drug administration for development of adverse effects, including sedation, sneezing, and nasal irritation. A nasal mucosal atomisation device may be used to enhance bioavailability of the drug, improving efficacy.
ARS CRITICA
Authors: NÉMETH Ákos
Published: December 2024

Takáts József. 2022. Átrendeződések: Kritikai írások. Budapest: Kalligram Kiadó
ERDŐRE ÉS FÁKRA UTALÓ HELYSÉGNEVEK A KÁRPÁT-MEDENCÉBEN (I.)
Authors: KURCZ Ádám István
Published: December 2024

A magyar helynévanyag sokféle fával kapcsolatos tárgykörre utal: jellegzetes fafajokra, erdőkre; az erdőirtás módjaira, nyomaira; erdei állatokra, vadászatukra, illetve más erdei tevékenységekre. Mindezt tematikailag és ábécérendben, a kapcsolódó településnevek lokalizálásával és magyarázatával tárgyaljuk. – A Kárpát-medence hegyesebb belső és peremrészein gyakoribbak az erdőre utaló helynevek, a középrész inkább élelemtermelésre szolgál; az alföldi helynevek inkább (víznévből átvett) vízkedvelő fajokra vagy ültetett gyümölcsösökre utalnak. Ha nyelvjárási szó más vidék helynevéből is előkerül, egykori szélesebb elterjedtsége következtethető. – Sok régi foglalkozás is kötődött az erdőhöz; az emberi tevékenység pedig átalakította a növénytakarót: az erdők megfogyatkoztak. Hogy mi lett a helyükön, hogyan lettek az ősrengetegekből telepített vagy sarjról eredt erdők: e folyamatokra a történeti nyelvészet legfőképpen a helynevekből következtet.
Cursed Empires
Authors: Kurelić Zoran
Published: December 2024

In the article, the author uses a philosophical understanding of an oath to interpret an artwork, and then uses this interpretation to criticize modern polities as cursed empires. The narrative is presented in four steps. It begins with a short presentation of Mark Lilla's and John Gray's diagnosis of the Anglo-American ideological crisis, in which liberalism is modified by cultural politics which to both writers looks like a revivalist religion. Lilla and Gray metaphorically use the word "curse" to explain the new ideological constellation determined by the phenomenon called "woke". The second part presents Agamben's understanding of the relationship between an oath and a curse, which is used to interpret David Lynch's film Inland Empire in the third part. The author tries to show that the film deals with an original idea that a work of art can break a curse. In the fourth part, the author uses the idea of cursing and uncursing to criticize the West for failures in the war in former Yugoslavia, during the migrant crisis, and in the ongoing reappearance of "radical evil" in Gaza. The argument is constructed with a help of Greil Marcus' idea that polities can curse themselves if they fail to live up to their ideological promises. The author concludes that the EU and the USA failed to live up to their alleged founding principles and became cursed empires. The cultural war in which they find themselves seen from the perspective of magico-religious domain in which the oath and the curse originally appeared is not metaphorically a curse but literally the payment for the sin of omission.
Jačanje vojnih kapaciteta i pristupanje vojnim savezima kao uvjet zaštite teritorijalnog integriteta i suverenosti
Authors: Dagen Tomislav
Published: December 2024

Agresijom Ruske Federacije na Ukrajinu od 24. veljače 2022. godine međunarodni poredak kakav poznajemo od Drugog Svjetskog rata našao se pred izazovom vlastite opstojnosti. Činjenica izmijenjene globalne i europske sigurnosne arhitekture s narušenim povjerenjem u sustav međunarodnopravnih odredbi i međunarodno pravo kao mehanizam zaštite teritorijalnog integriteta i suverenosti država, pred države postavlja sigurnosne izazove. Države na taj izazov odgovaraju dvama sigurnosnim mehanizmima: jačanjem vojnih kapaciteta kroz politiku povećanja potrošnje na jačanje vlastitih vojnih komponenti i sustave sigurnosti te politikom napuštanja vojne neutralnosti i pristupanja vojnim savezima s drugim državama. Primjena dvaju navedenih sigurnosnih mehanizma predstavlja conditio sine qua non zaštite teritorijalnog integriteta i suverenosti država, kako u europskom tako i u hrvatskom kontekstu.
Gender and Dark Personality Traits as Determinants of Collective Action Participation
Authors: Pavlović Tomislav
Published: December 2024

This study is focused on multiple aims. The first goal is to extend the evidence base and offer insights into patterns of attitudes and intentions related to activism (normative collective actions) and radicalism (non-normative and violent collective actions) among youth in Croatia. The second goal is to test the "dark-ego-vehicle" principle by evaluating whether the profiles based on the patterns of attitudes and intentions related to collective actions significantly differ with respect to the general dark personality trait. Data of 727 Croatian university students (53% women) were analyzed using latent profile analysis, which revealed four profiles in male and five profiles in female subsample. Most profiles (passive, activists, moderate radicals, strong radicals) were established among men and women, with negligible differences in indicator means. However, men were more likely to be categorized as moderate radicals (and slightly more likely to be categorized as passive), while women were more likely to be categorized as activists. The study partially supported the "dark-ego-vehicle" principle among women: while activists scored low on the general dark personality trait, moderate and strong radicals exhibited elevated scores. Among men, activists also scored low on dark personality trait, unlike passive individuals, moderate and strong radicals.
Colorectal Cancer: A Brief and Simplified Analysis of a Complex Disease
Authors: Petrov Krasimir Todorov , Ivanov Ivan Nedkov , Popovska Savelina Lubenova , Betova Tatyana Marinova , Kamburova Zornitsa Bogomilova
Published: December 2024

This recent study examined factors influencing the onset and progression of colorectal tumors, including patients’ epidemiological data, tumor location (right-sided, left-sided, and rec- tal), histomorphology, perineural or intraneural invasion, lymph node status, immune reactions, mismatch repair (MMR) status, and commonly observed mutations. Our primary goal was to eval- uate their predictive and prognostic value and interactions. We analyzed a retrospective cohort of 100 patients with colorectal adenocarcinoma diagnosed between 2020 and 2023, using formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tumor blocks. The methods included routine H&E microscopy, immuno- histochemistry, Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS), and subsequent statistical analysis. The findings showed a median diagnosis age of 70 years, with no gender-specific tumor localization. Right-sided tumors were prevalent, especially among patients with a defective MMR (dMMR), which represented 89% of dMMR cases. MMR status significantly correlated with tumor localization. We observed significant relationships between tumor grade, lymphovascular invasion, and overall tumor stage. Higher tumor grades and stages correlated with increased lymphovascular invasion and lymph node involvement. Interestingly, tumor budding did not correlate with lymph node metastasis but was significantly associated with higher tumor grades. Most BRAF mutations were found in right-sided tumors, indicating a significant correlation with this localization.
Investigating the Severity and Timeline of PASC Symptoms: Focus on Physiological and Cognitive Effects
Authors: Melwani Rohan , Noru Keerthana , Kondapalli Sanya , Ravi Ameya , Shah Saanvi , Setty Shreeya , Sastry Shashank , Jahanikia Sahar
Published: December 2024

The SARS-CoV-2 virus, responsible for the COVID-19 pandemic, has impacted the health of millions globally, with many individuals experiencing persistent symptoms even after testing negative, a condition known as Post-acute Sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection (PASC), or “Long COVID”. This study analyzes demographic influences on the severity and timeline of PASC symptoms, with emphasis on physiological and cognitive effects. Using a self-reporting survey method, data was collected from a sample of 110 participants and analyzed using statistical methods such as Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA), Pearson Correlation, and Two-Factor ANOVA Test. The participants were primarily based within California, and a majority of them were ethnically Asian. Based on the study, females generally reported higher severity for cognitive and physiological symptoms compared to males, and symptom severity was generally lower among vaccinated individuals. Correlation analysis revealed a significant relationship between depression and cognitive impairments, underscoring the psychological impact of PASC. This study emphasizes the complexity of PASC, demonstrating how demographic characteristics such as age, sex, and vaccination status influence the severity and duration of symptoms, contributing to the growing understanding of PASC. Further research should consider SARS-CoV-2 variant-specific impacts and broader population samples.
What Chat GPT Has to Say About Its Topological Structure: The Anyon Hypothesis
Authors: Planat Michel , Amaral Marcelo M.
Published: December 2024

Large language models (LLMs) achieve remarkable predictive capabilities but remain opaque in their internal reasoning, creating a pressing need for more interpretable artificial intelligence. Here, we propose bridging this explanatory gap by drawing on concepts from topological quantum computing (TQC), specifically the anyonic frameworks arising from SU(2)k theories. Anyons interpolate between fermions and bosons, offering a mathematical language that may illuminate the latent structure and decision-making processes within LLMs. By examining how these topological constructs relate to token interactions and contextual dependencies in neural architectures, we aim to provide a fresh perspective on how meaning and coherence emerge. After eliciting insights from Chat GPT and exploring the low-level cases of SU(2)k models, we argue that the machinery of modular tensor categories and topological phases could inform more transparent, stable, and robust AI systems. This interdisciplinary approach suggests that quantum-theoretic principles may underpin a novel understanding of explainable AI.
Continuous GlucoSe Monitor And SmaRT Insulin Pen SysteM: A Real WorlD LIfe Analysis of Cohort Study
Authors: Pantanetti Paola , Cangelosi Giovanni , Morales Palomares Sara , Ferrara Gaetano , Biondini Federico , Mancin Stefano , Caggianelli Gabriele , Parozzi Mauro , Sguanci Marco , Petrelli Fabio
Published: December 2024

Background: Diabetes affects over 460 million people worldwide and poses a growing public health challenge, driven largely by dietary and lifestyle factors. While type 2 diabetes (T2D) is more prevalent, type 1 diabetes (T1D) presents unique therapeutic challenges, particularly in younger individuals. Advances in diabetes management, such as continuous glucose monitoring (CGM), insulin pumps (IP), and, more recently, smart multiple dose injection (MDI) pens, have significantly enhanced glycemic control and improved patients' quality of life. Aim: This study aims to evaluate the baseline characteristics of patients switching from MDI therapy to the Medtronic Smart MDI system [composed by a smart insulin pen (InPenTM) and a connected CGM Medtronic SimpleraTM sensor] and to assess its impact on glycemic outcomes over different time periods (14, 30, and 90 days). Methods: A retrospective observational study was conducted among adults with T1D who initiated Medtronic Smart MDI therapy. Participants were enrolled voluntarily at the Diabetes and Nutrition Clinic in Ast Fermo, Marche Region, Italy. Glycemic parameters were monitored using CGM data and analyzed with descriptive statistics, including mean, standard deviation (SD), and interquartile range (IQR). Comparisons across time periods were performed using the Wilcoxon signed-rank test, with statistical significance set at p < 0.05. Results: This study involved 21 subjects with a mean age of 51.5 years, a mean BMI of 24.7, and a T1D duration of 21.9 years. After switching from MDI to Medtronic Smart MDI, significant improvements were noted: mean sensor glucose (SG) decreased from 171.0 to 153.5 mg/dL (p = 0.035), Time in Range (TIR) increased from 58.0% to 64.4% (p = 0.005), and a mean Time Above Range (TAR) (>180mg/dL) decreased from 39.0% to 34.2% (p = 0.015). No significant differences were found in Time Below Range (TBR). Conclusion: Transitioning to Medtronic Smart MDI in T1D patients significantly improves glycemic control, notably by reducing average glucose levels and increasing TIR. This integrated approach enhances overall disease management, reducing hyperglycemia while maintaining stable hypoglycemia risk. Further studies are needed to optimize its use in daily practice and long-term care.
Electrochemical Design of Iron-Based Advanced Materials from Complexing Electrolytes
Authors: Tsyntsaru Natalia , Cesiulis Henrikas , Bersirova Oksana
Published: December 2024

Nowadays, there is a growing focus on sustainability, characterized by making changes that anticipate future needs and adapting them to present requirements. Sustainability is reflected in various areas of materials science as well. Thus, more research is focused on the fabrication of advanced materials based on earth-abundant metals. The role of iron and its compounds is particularly significant as iron is the second most abundant metal on our planet. Moreover, the electrochemical approach provides a rather eco-friendly way for versatile materials synthesis, including iron-based materials that can be found in various applications, due to a smart tuning of properties by codeposition of appropriate compounds with iron. Thus, highlighting and boosting its magnetic, catalytic, mechanical, antimicrobial/antibacterial properties, thermal, wear, and corrosion resistance. Among iron-based materials, those with refractory metals, including tungsten-based alloys, are widespread research fields with practical possibilities. Special attention in this review is devoted to peculiarities of electrodeposition from complexing electrolytes of such materials as they can meaningfully impact the final structure, content, and design of properties.
Different Types of Epiphytic Plant Display Unique Drivers in Their Spatial Patterns on the Ancient Building in Hainan Island, China
Authors: Su Lin-ke , Cubino Josep Padullés , Li Qian , Zhu Mei-hui , Muhammad Mir , Fu Guang-huai , Wang Huafeng
Published: December 2024

Hainan Island, positioned in China's southernmost region, is a reservoir of tropical biological resources, featuring a rich tapestry of ancient architecture. These historical structures not only embody cultural heritage but also support a diverse array of epiphytic plants, distinguishing them as unique ecological niches. The exploration of the ecological dynamics facilitating these plant-structure interactions is a critical frontier in contemporary ecology. Yet, the spatial distribution and underlying drivers of epiphyte diversity on these ancient edifices in Hainan have not been comprehensively elucidated. This investigation adopts an integrative methodology, combining field surveys with an extensive review of pertinent literature to statistically assess the species richness, abundance, characteristic traits, and ecological value of epiphytes on these ancient constructions. Additionally, environmental parameters such as the dimensions and areas of the buildings were quantified, producing twelve distinct metrics. This foundational data enabled a detailed examination of the correlations between these environmental factors and the diversity and abundance of epiphytic flora. Predominant families identified include Moraceae, Urticaceae, Polypodiaceae, Nephrolepidaceae, and Adiantaceae, with significant contributions from species such as Ficus pumila, Pilea microphylla, Phymatosorus scolopendria, Nephrolepis auriculata, and Adiantum caudatum. Notably, epiphytic species richness in suburban and rural architectures surpasses that in urban settings. Diverse plant types such as herbaceous, perennial, wild, native, and edible species were predominantly observed, with edible varieties showing enhanced prevalence across various plant forms. Moreover, the study identified significant positive correlations between the geographic longitude of the structures and both species richness and plant abundance, alongside a marked negative correlation with annual average passenger traffic. These findings underscore the distinct environmental and anthropogenic factors influencing the spatial distribution patterns of epiphytic plants on ancient architecture, offering insights into their ecological interactions and conservation implications.