bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Relationship Between Perilesional Skin Condition and Survival in Terminally Ill Patients with Pressure Ulcers
Authors: Pastor-Orduña María Isabel , Palomar-Llatas Federico , Palomar-Albert David , Murillo-Llorente María Teresa , Ventura Ignacio , Tomás-Aguirre Francisco , Pérez-Bermejo Marcelino
Published: January 2025

Background and Objectives: In the context of palliative care, the aim is to alleviate suffering and improve quality of life, with particular attention to PUs, which have a significant impact on quality of life and survival. This study examines the relationship between perilesional skin condition and survival in terminally ill patients with pressure ulcers (PUs). Materials and Methods: A descriptive and observational study was conducted in two hospitals in Valencia with a sample of 100 terminally ill patients. Sociodemographic, clinical and PPU-specific variables were assessed using validated scales such as FEDPALLA-II and the Barthel Index. Results: Although it is a study of an observational nature, which may preclude establishing causality, the results showed that functional capacity, perilesional tissue epithelialization, and albumin levels were significant predictors of survival, while the number and location of PUs had no direct impact. Perilesional tissue epithelialization was highlighted as a critical indicator reflecting the systemic stability of the patient. Conclusions: The study highlights the importance of a comprehensive approach to palliative care that addresses both the local aspects of the lesions and the patient’s systemic and functional status. These findings support the implementation of therapeutic interventions based on a structured perilesional tissue assessment to improve quality of life and prolong survival in terminally ill patients. In addition, a positive correlation was found between Barthel Score and survival, suggesting that patients with greater functional independence have a longer life expectancy. On the other hand, the negative correlation between total lymphocyte count and survival suggests that lymphocytopenia may be a marker of adaptive immunosuppression. Perilesional tissue epithelialization, overall functionality and serum albumin levels are key factors in predicting survival, highlighting the need for a comprehensive palliative care approach to optimize quality of life and prolong survival in terminally ill patients with PUs.
Micronutrient–Antioxidant Therapy and Male Fertility Improvement During ART Cycles
Authors: Lahimer Marwa , Capelle Severine , Lefranc Elodie , Bosquet Dorian , Kazdar Nadia , Ledu Anne , Agina Mounir , Cabry Rosalie , BenKhalifa Moncef
Published: January 2025

Today, accumulating evidence highlights the impact of oxidative stress (OS) on semen quality. It is considered to be a key factor contributing to the decline in male fertility. OS is detected in 30–80% of men with infertility, highlighting its strong association with impaired reproductive function and with clinical outcomes following the use of assisted reproductive technologies. Spermatozoa are particularly vulnerable to oxidative damage due to their high content of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) and limited antioxidant defense abilities. OS arises from an imbalance between the production of reactive oxygen species and the capacity to neutralize or repair their adverse effects. Evidence indicates that OS leads to lipid peroxidation, protein oxidation, mitochondrial dysfunction, and genomic instability. Micronutrient–antioxidant therapies can play a key role in infertility improvement by neutralizing free radicals and preventing cellular damage. Many different micronutrients, including L-carnitine, L-glutathione, coenzyme Q10, selenium, and zinc, as well as vitamins complexes, are proposed to improve sperm parameters and male fertility potential. This study aims to review the impact of antioxidant supplementation on semen parameters, including sperm volume, motility, concentration, morphology, genome integrity (maturity and fragmentation), and in vitro fertilization (IVF) outcomes. Antioxidant intake and a balanced lifestyle reduce oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction, enhancing the spermatogenesis and spermiogenesis processes, improving sperm quality, and protecting DNA integrity.
Effect of Wheat Dextrin Fiber on the Fecal Microbiome and Short-Chain Fatty Acid Concentrations in Dogs: Randomized, Single-Blinded, Parallel-Group Clinical Trial
Authors: Pan Marianne , Sung Chi-Hsuan , Pilla Rachel , Suchodolski Jan S. , Summers Stacie C.
Published: January 2025

The purpose of this study was to assess the practical implications of supplementing soluble fiber in the diet of dogs. Dogs with a history of managed or active chronic enteropathy were randomized to receive either wheat dextrin (fiber group) or maltodextrin (placebo group) mixed with food once daily for 28 days. Owners recorded a daily fecal score one week prior to and during the supplementation period. Shallow shotgun sequencing, quantitative PCR abundances of core bacterial taxa, and short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) concentrations via gas chromatography/mass spectrometry were performed on fecal samples collected before and after supplementation. Seventeen dogs completed the study (fiber group: nine dogs; placebo group: eight dogs). The change in fecal score differed between groups, with the fiber group developing softer stools (p = 0.03). Alpha diversity, quantified PCR abundances of the SCFA-producing taxa, and fecal SCFA concentrations were not different after supplementation in either group. Fecal microbial communities differed between baseline and day 28 for fiber and placebo groups (p = 0.02, respectively); however, the size effect (ANOSIM R = 0.18 and R = 0.26, respectively) was minimal. In this small group of dogs fed variable commercial diets, the additional intake of wheat dextrin powder supplement was well accepted, but had minimal discernable clinical benefit, and could soften stools.
The Clinical Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics of Glimepiride—A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Azhar Mubara , Alasmari Mohammed S. , Zamir Ammara , Saeed Hamid , Alqahtani Faleh , Ahmad Tanveer , Rasool Muhammad Fawad
Published: January 2025

Background/Objectives: Glimepiride (GLM), a commonly used sulphonylurea drug for the management of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), has been the subject of numerous studies exploring its kinetic behaviors. However, a comprehensive evaluation that synthesizes all available pharmacokinetic (PK) data across diverse populations remains limited. This systematic review aims to provide detailed knowledge about the pharmacokinetics (PK), the associated pharmacodynamics (PD), and the drug interactions of GLM, which can be used to assess key parameters and identify factors influencing variability across diverse populations and clinical settings. Methods: A systematic search of the peer-reviewed literature was combined using major databases—Google Scholar, PubMed, Cochrane, and ScienceDirect, to identify studies reporting the PK of GLM. Following the data extraction, a meta-analysis using a random effect (RE) model was performed, where feasible, to quantitatively assess the variability of key PK parameters across different studies to create a more robust PK parameter estimate. Results: The final screening has yielded 40 articles. The area under the curve (AUC0-∞) and the peak concentration (Cmax) rise proportionately with increasing doses, depicting the linear kinetics of GLM. The subjects with genotype CYP2C9 *1/*3 depicted a 4-fold higher (AUC0-∞) as compared to that of the CYP2C9 *1/*1 population. Preliminary meta-analysis results indicated significant variability in (AUC0-∞) and Cmax values among different studies. Heterogeneity across studies was high, warranting the use of RE models. Conclusions: The findings of this review would be helpful in the development and evaluation of PK models that may aid in suggesting individualized dosing.
Development of Spray-Dried Micelles, Liposomes, and Solid Lipid Nanoparticles for Enhanced Stability
Authors: Dattani Shradha , Li Xiaoling , Lampa Charina , Barriscale Amanda , Damadzadeh Behzad , Lechuga-Ballesteros David , Jasti Bhaskara R.
Published: January 2025

Objectives: Micelles, liposomes, and solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) are promising drug delivery vehicles; however, poor aqueous stability requires post-processing drying methods for maintaining long-term stability. The objective of this study was to compare the potential of lipid-based micelles, liposomes, and SLNs for producing stable re-dispersible spray-dried powders with trehalose or a combination of trehalose and L-leucine. This study provides novel insights into the implementation of spray drying as a technique to enhance long-term stability for these lipid-based nanocarriers. Methods: Aqueous dispersions of LDV-targeted micelles, liposomes, and SLNs loaded with paclitaxel (PTX) were converted into re-dispersible powders using spray drying. The physicochemical properties of the nanocarriers were determined via scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Karl Fischer titration, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and dynamic light scattering (DLS). Short-term stability of all nanocarrier formulations was compared by measuring particle size, polydispersity index (PDI), and paclitaxel retention over 7 days at room temperature and at 4 °C. Results: Paclitaxel-loaded micelles, liposomes, and SLN formulations were successfully converted into well-dispersed spray-dried powders with acceptable yields (71.5 to 83.5%), low moisture content (<2%), and high transition temperatures (95.1 to 100.8 °C). SEM images revealed differences in morphology, where nanocarriers spray-dried with trehalose or a combination of trehalose and L-leucine produced smooth or corrugated particle surfaces, respectively. Reconstituted spray-dried nanocarriers maintained their nanosize and paclitaxel content over 7 days at 4 °C. Conclusions: The results of this study demonstrate the potential for the development of spray-dried lipid-based nanocarriers for long-term stability.
Bilosomal Co-Encapsulated Tamoxifen and Propranolol for Potentiated Anti-Breast Cancer Efficacy: In Vitro and In Vivo Investigation
Authors: Elebyary Toka T. , Sultan Amal A. , Abu-Risha Sally E. , El Maghraby Gamal M. , Amin Manna
Published: January 2025

Background/Objectives: Tamoxifen (TAM) is an anti-breast cancer drug suffering from acquired resistance development, prompting cancer relapse. Propranolol (PRO)’s repurposing for cancer therapy has gained interest. This work aimed to investigate combined TAM/PRO therapy for potentiating the anti-breast cancer activity of TAM. The work probed bilosomes versus standard noisome for simultaneous oral and intratumor delivery of TAM and PRO. Methods: Bilosomes comprising Span60, cholesterol, and increasing concentrations of bile salts were prepared together with bile salts containing free standard niosomes. The vesicular size and morphology were characterized. The entrapment and release efficiencies of TAM and PRO from the tailored vesicles were determined. The in vivo investigations of anti-tumor activity of TAM with or without PRO employed the solid Ehrlich carcinoma model. Results: The vesicles of all fabricated dispersions were spherical and negatively charged, with a size ranging from 104 to 182 nm. The entrapment efficiency depended on the nature of the drug, recording values ranging from 87.5% to 97.8% for TAM and from 31.0% to 46.8% for PRO. Incorporation of bile salts into vesicles increased TAM and PRO release compared to standard niosomes. Oral administration of combined TAM/PRO bilosomes showed a significant reduction in tumor growth volume compared to that recorded following naked drug administration. Histopathological investigations reflected a significant decline in tumor giant cells and mitotic figures, implying the in vivo capability of the TAM/PRO combination to interfere with cancer cell proliferation and persistence. Conclusions: The overall results demonstrated the impact of repurposed PRO to enhance the anti-breast cancer activity of TAM when both were co-encapsulated into bilosomes.
Prilling as an Effective Tool for Manufacturing Submicrometric and Nanometric PLGA Particles for Controlled Drug Delivery to Wounds: Stability and Curcumin Release
Authors: De Soricellis Chiara , Amante Chiara , Russo Paola , Aquino Rita Patrizia , Del Gaudio Pasquale
Published: January 2025

Background/Objectives: This study investigates for the first time the use of the prilling technique in combination with solvent evaporation to produce nano- and submicrometric PLGA particles to deliver properly an active pharmaceutical ingredient. Curcumin (CCM), a hydrophobic compound classified under BCS (Biopharmaceutics Classification System) class IV, was selected as the model drug. Methods: Key process parameters, including polymer concentration, solvent type, nozzle size, and surfactant levels, were optimized to obtain stable particles with a narrow size distribution determined by DLS analysis. Results: Particles mean diameter (d50) 316 and 452 nm, depending on drug-loaded cargo as Curcumin-loaded PLGA nanoparticles demonstrated high encapsulation efficiency, assessed via HPLC analysis, stability, and controlled release profiles. In vitro studies revealed a faster release for lower drug loadings (90% release in 6 h) compared to sustained release over 7 days for higher-loaded nanoparticles, attributed to polymer degradation and drug-polymer interactions on the surface of the particles, as confirmed by FTIR analyses. Conclusions: These findings underline the potential of this scalable technique for biomedical applications, offering a versatile platform for designing drug delivery systems with tailored release characteristics.
Genome-Wide Identification and In Silico Expression Analysis of CCO Gene Family in Citrus clementina (Citrus) in Response to Abiotic Stress
Authors: Sarwar Sadaf , Sami Adnan , Haider Muhammad Zeshan , Tasawar Layba , Akram Jannat , Ahmad Arsalan , Shafiq Muhammad , Zaki Haitham E. M. , Ondrasek Gabrijel , Shahid Muhammad Shafiq
Published: January 2025

The Citrus clementina (citrus) plant produces various phytohormones due to the significant involvement of the carotenoid cleavage oxygenase (CCO) gene family in its growth and development. CCO genes can be divided into two main categories: NCED (9-cis-epoxy carotenoid dioxygenase), responsible for abscisic acid (ABA) production, and CCD (carotenoid cleavage dioxygenase), involved in pigment and strigolactone formation. To better understand the roles and positions of CcCCO gene members in relation to these hormones, researchers analyzed the clementine genome. To identify their structural features, they employed phylogenetic analysis, protein interactions, localization, structure, miRNA targets, evolutionary analysis, and transcriptome studies. The study revealed the presence of 15 CcCCO genes, including 11 NCED and 4 CCD genes, scattered across various chromosomes, with the majority located in chloroplasts. Promoter sequencing analysis indicated the presence of different cis-regulatory elements that likely interacted with phytohormones, such as auxin and abscisic acid among others. Notably, two genes, CcNCED1 and CcNCED3, were significantly expressed among the CCO genes, and these were found to be expressed during stress and played a crucial role in enabling optimal plant development. Furthermore, a comprehensive genome-wide comparison of CCO genes in C. Clementine and Arabidopsis thaliana models was conducted to understand their functional characteristics. This research provides a solid foundation for further exploration of the unique attributes of the C. clementina plant, contributing to a deeper understanding of its growth and development processes.
A Comparison of Methods for Determining the Number of Factors to Retain in Exploratory Factor Analysis for Categorical Indicator Variables
Authors: Finch Holmes
Published: January 2025

Exploratory factor analysis (EFA) is a widely used tool in the social sciences. Researchers employ it to identify the latent structure underlying observed indicator variables during the process of scale development, theory construction, and comparison of various constructs. One of the most important aspects of conducting EFA is determining the number of factors to retain. There exist a number of techniques for this purpose, but none have been identified as uniformly optimal in all situations. The purpose of this simulation study is to compare several such techniques in the context of dichotomous and ordinal indicator variables (corresponding to items on an instrument). Some of the methods investigated in this study include well-established techniques, such as parallel analysis and the minimum average partial correlation, as well as newly developed ones, such as out-of-sample prediction error and the next eigenvalue sufficiency test. The results of the study demonstrate that a Bayesian estimation approach and the out-of-sample prediction error method are particularly effective for identifying the number of factors to retain. The implications for practice are discussed.
Two-Stage GPR Image Inversion Method Based on Multi-Scale Dilated Convolution and Hybrid Attention Gate
Authors: Wu Mingze , Liu Qinghua , Ouyang Shan
Published: January 2025

Ground penetrating radar (GPR) image inversion is of great significance for interpreting GPR data. In practical applications, the complexity and nonuniformity of underground structures bring noise and clutter interference, making GPR inversion problems more challenging. To address these issues, this study proposes a two-stage GPR image inversion network called MHInvNet based on multi-scale dilated convolution (MSDC) and hybrid attention gate (HAG). This method first denoises the B-scan through the first network MHInvNet1, then combines the denoised B-scan from MHInvNet1 with the undenoised B-scan as input to the second network MHInvNet2 for inversion to reconstruct the distribution of the permittivity of underground targets. To further enhance network performance, the MSDC and HAG modules are simultaneously introduced to both networks. Experimental results from simulated and actual measurement data show that MHInvNet can accurately invert the position, shape, size, and permittivity of underground targets. A comparison with existing methods demonstrates the superior inversion performance of MHInvNet.
Strengthening National Immunization Technical Advisory Groups: Twelve Years of Progress (2012–2023)
Authors: Henaff Louise , Dumolard Laure , Bura Vinod , Sume Gerald Etapelong , Ndiaye Sidy , Sanwogou Jennifer , Cho Heeyoun , Hombach Joachim , Steffen Christoph A.
Published: January 2025

Introduction: Well-functioning National Immunization Technical Advisory Groups (NITAGs) are valuable contributors to decision-making processes in the complex immunization policy arena. This paper describes the progress made globally on the establishment and strengthening of these key advisory groups and discusses some of their strengths, challenges, and opportunities. Methods: The data submitted annually by countries to the World Health Organization (WHO) via the WHO/UNICEF Joint Reporting Form (JRF) were analyzed, comparing the NITAG functionality criteria in 2012 and 2023. Results: In 2023 and 2012, 88% and 61% of countries, respectively, reported having a NITAG. A total of 77% of NITAGs met all six NITAG process criteria in 2023 compared to 33% in 2012. This progress was most notable in the WHO African Region, increasing from 7% (2012) to 77% (2023), and the South-East Asia Region, increasing from 45% (2012) to 91% (2023). In 2023, 84% of NITAGs issued a vaccine-policy recommendation that was adopted by decision-makers. Discussion: Marked progress has been made since 2012 on establishing and maintaining NITAGs, with a small number of countries yet to form an advisory committee. Supporting and sustaining NITAG functions remains an important means for countries to foster independent and transparent expert advice on vaccine and immunization policy. Setbacks in countries facing instability or political turmoil are a reminder of the reversibility of progress. WHO and partners play an important role in supporting countries in strengthening these advisory committees. Continuous commitment by countries to the function and involvement of NITAGs in policy recommendations is essential for enhancing the strength and resilience of immunization programs.
Evaluation of Water Inrush Risk in the Fault Zone of the Coal Seam Floor in Madaotou Coal Mine, Shanxi Province, China
Authors: Yu Shuai , Ding Hanghang , Yang Moyuan , Zhang Menglin
Published: January 2025

As coal seams are mined at greater depths, the threat of high water pressure from the confined aquifer in the floor that mining operations face has become increasingly prominent. Taking the Madaotou mine field in the Datong Coalfield as the research object, in the context of mining under pressure, for the main coal seams in the mining area, first of all, an improved evaluation method for the vulnerability of floor water inrush is adopted for hazard prediction. Secondly, numerical simulation is used to conduct a simulation analysis on the fault zones in high-risk areas. By using the fuzzy C-means clustering method (FCCM) to improve the classification method for the normalized indicators in the original variable-weight vulnerability evaluation, the risk zoning for water inrush from the coal seam floor is determined. Then, through the numerical simulation method, a simulation analysis is carried out on high-risk areas to simulate the disturbance changes of different mining methods on the fault zones so as to put forward reasonable mining methods. The results show that the classification of the variable-weight intervals of water inrush from the coal seam floor is more suitable to be classified by using fuzzy clustering, thus improving the prediction accuracy. Based on the time effect of the delayed water inrush of faults, different mining methods determine the duration of the disturbance on the fault zones. Therefore, by reducing the disturbance time on the fault zones, the risk of karst water inrush from the floor of the fault zones can be reduced. Through prediction evaluation and simulation analysis, the evaluation of the risk of water inrush in coal mines has been greatly improved, which is of great significance for ensuring the safe and efficient mining of mines.
How gender shapes practice choices among family medicine residents and early career family physicians: a Canadian qualitative study
Authors: Sheppard Anneka , Gormley Amanda , Mills Lauren , McKay Madeleine , Bergin Fiona , Gradstein Roetka , Moravac Catherine , Scott Ian , Lavergne Ruth
Published: January 2025

Background

The practice choices of family medicine residents and early career family physicians shape access to primary care. A growing proportion of family physicians are women.

Aim

This study examined how gender operates in shaping family physician practice choices and subsequent practice patterns.

Design & setting

Qualitative interview data were analyzed.

Setting

Family medicine residents and early-career family physicians from three Canadian provinces (Nova Scotia, Ontario, and British Columbia) participated in interviews.

Method

Qualitative interview data was collected as part of a larger mixed methods study. Eighty-eight interviews were transcribed verbatim and coded into several node reports including one on gender. Reflexive thematic analysis was conducted to identify themes related to how gender impacts physician practice choices.

Results

Many participants described multiple intersecting pathways through which it was apparent that gender shaped their career and practice choices. Others did not identify the impact of gender in this regard. Parenthood and caregiving were commonly discussed, as were clinical interests specific to women’s health, however, gendered expectations of patients and colleagues were also seen to shape choices. In this way, gender shaped choices directly, but also indirectly in response to gendered experiences and expectations.

Conclusion

Findings support the need for structural reforms including: increased availability of collaborative team based models, flexible work schedules, closure of gendered wage gaps, and integration of gender awareness training through academic and healthcare institutions. Consideration of how primary care policies differentially impact across clinician gender is key to future planning to support a changing workforce that meets patient needs.
Translation strategies of four-character-idioms in Xiqu texts
Authors: Zhu Xiaohan
Published: January 2025

Idioms appear regularly in Xiqu (known as Chinese opera), among which four-character idioms are typical representatives of Chinese culture, expressing certain meanings with fixed forms and structures in common sayings. The research is a small-scale study of English translation of Chinese four-character idioms based on a corpus consisting of the text and English translation of a single Xiqu, Silang Visits His Mother. In this article, the translation strategies of idioms in Xiqu are studied, and through the analysis of examples, it is found that four translation strategies (Wang and Wang 2013) are preferred in translating: literal translation, free translation, abridged translation and borrowing translation. The analysis of these foundational strategies reveals that the unique dual structure of some Chinese idioms often necessitates abridged translation, highlighting the importance of addressing both semantic content and structural differences when translating idioms between Chinese and English.
AI vs. Human Approach in the Field of School Location Optimization Strategy
Authors: Fašiang Tomáš , Gežík Pavel
Published: January 2025

The paper focuses on the problem of optimizing the location of primary schools in the Trnava district, which is affected by the growth in the number of pupils and the shortage of teachers. In order to find the most effective solution, two approaches were compared: mathematical optimization methods and solutions through artificial intelligence (AI). The mathematical methods focused on minimizing the number of schools for a given maximum distance and coverage of the municipalities, using graph theory algorithms. On the other hand, AI proceeded based on population data and geographic coordinates, using clustering of municipalities. Market predispositions were also taken into account when analyzing the suitability of solutions, reflecting the distribution of the population and their needs. The results showed that both approaches could effectively identify suitable locations for schools, but the AI solutions did not integrate the road network and provided less precise answers without specific outputs. Combining these approaches together with the application of marketing strategies can provide more comprehensive and realistic solutions that not only improve access to education, but also take into account the preferences of the target groups and their interaction with the environment. This research underlines the importance of technological innovation and strategic communication in addressing societal challenges.
Ethical Challenges of Slovak PR in the Era of AI
Authors: Galera Matúšová Jana , Jankovič Filip
Published: January 2025

The relatively rapid implementation of artificial intelligence tools into the processes of communication agencies brings with it various challenges. On the one hand, AI opens up new possibilities and can positively influence the course of campaign creation. Artificial intelligence greatly simplifies the creation of content or serves as a tool for inspiration, but also data for creators. On the other hand, we have legitimate ethical issues that brands are facing. These include how to take responsibility for AI-generated content, the possible manipulation of public opinion, and the transparency and credibility of communication processes. Although we are aware of both the benefits and the risks, there is a lack of a response that takes into account the situations in effective ethical standards. Moreover, ethical standards that are accepted by consensus across the PR sector. Our paper analyses the current situation in the development of ethical standards for the use of AI, compares the response of Slovak self-regulatory bodies with international ones and suggests what effective rules could look like with respect to the Slovak context.
Adapting Education for Digital Natives: Understanding the Needs of Students of Humanities and Technical Disciplines
Authors: Karasová Eva , Doty Benjamin Warren
Published: January 2025

Amid the accelerating advancements in information technology, robotics, and artificial intelligence, educators are exploring ways to integrate these advancements into their teaching methods. The new generation of students, often referred to as digital natives, arrives at universities expecting education to be more in tune with the latest digital trends. Previous studies focused on technology adoption among university students have shown that Generation Z favors a hybrid teaching approach that blends traditional and digital methods. This paper aims to explore the differing needs of university students whose specializations are in the fields of humanities and those who specialize in technical fields when it comes to balancing these teaching methods. Data for this research was collected through an online questionnaire completed by undergraduate students from universities with differing orientations. The findings revealed similarities as well as differences in responses of the two groups of students. Based on these the authors offer changes to teaching strategies that can be adapted to better meet the needs of these Gen Z students.
Manifestations of Technological Interference Associated with the Development of Artificial Intelligence Technologies for Automating Communication Processes in the Digital Environment
Authors: Madleňák Adam , Hladíková Vladimíra
Published: January 2025

The scientific contribution examines the impact of the development of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies on the manifestations of technological interference in the digital environment, with a particular focus on automated communication processes and their consequences for the social behaviour of internet users. The objective of the scientific contribution was to identify the ways in which AI applications (primarily through notification automation and content personalization) shape the digital habits of internet users and may potentially lead to the deepening of addictive behavioural patterns in the online space. In the theoretical part of the contribution, the concepts of technological interference and digital addiction were processed, illustrating the socio-psychological impacts of constant online availability. The empirical part presents the results of a quantitative survey, which examined current trends in mobile device usage in the context of digital communication and information searching. The survey results confirm that AI significantly influences the behaviour of internet users, primarily due to optimized notification management, which increases the frequency of interaction with mobile devices and deepens digital addiction. The research also revealed differences between various demographic groups in their responses to technological interference and digital interactions, indicating specific needs and challenges within the digitalized society. The discussed findings contribute to the understanding of the complex relationship between humans and artificial intelligence in the digital environment and highlight the ambiguous role of AI and its ambivalent nature, which can foster interactions while simultaneously limiting disruptive stimuli through optimized algorithms.
Mortal Kombat in the Context of Artificial Intelligence: From Digital Game to Cinematic Legend
Authors: Pravdová Hana , Šišuláková Lenka
Published: January 2025

The evolution of the Mortal Kombat brand from its original form as a fighting game in 1992 to its film adaptation in 1995 illustrates the unique process of multimedia transmission and highlights the creative possibilities of digital technologies, including artificial intelligence. The original Mortal Kombat, a pioneer in the fighting game genre, contains only minimal hints of story. These basic details about the characters and the tournament were expanded upon through John Tobias’ companion comic, which offered players their first glimpse into the larger context of the Mortal Kombat world. The 1995 film adaptation, directed by Paul W. S. Anderson, introduced a deeper story that was missing from both the game and the comic. Technical innovations, including the use of digital effects such as Sub-Zero’s ice attacks and Reptile’s transformation, greatly enriched the film’s visual style and elevated Mortal Kombat to a new level. This process transformed Mortal Kombat from a simple game concept into a complex multimedia phenomenon and laid the groundwork for subsequent franchises and films, making the brand more appealing to a wider audience. This article examines these developments in the context of narrative and technological change, including artificial intelligence, highlighting Mortal Kombat’s contribution to shaping pop culture identity and the innovative use of digital technologies in the film industry.
Światopogląd młodych ludzi a wyniki wyborów parlamentarnych w 2023 roku na przykładzie Elbląga
Authors: Bukowski Marcin , Sidorkiewicz Krzysztof
Published: January 2025

W artykule przedstawiono wyniki badań ankietowych przeprowadzonych po wyborach parlamentarnych w Polsce z 2023 r. wśród osób młodych kształcących się w Elblągu. Skoncentrowano się na kwestiach światopoglądowych i ich powiązaniem z preferencjami wyborczymi. Określono zależności występujące pomiędzy takimi kwestiami światopoglądowymi, jak liberalizacja prawa aborcyjnego, wprowadzenie związków partnerskich, rozdzielność Kościoła od państwa, wprowadzenie kary śmierci a wybieranym ugrupowaniem politycznym uczestniczącym w wyborach do Sejmu w 2023 r. Na podstawie wskaźników statystycznych zbadano istnienie zależności między postrzeganiem tych zagadnień a cechami respondentów (wiek, płeć, miejsce zamieszkania, status społeczny). Inspiracją do badań był bardzo duży udział młodych ludzi w wyborach, znacząco wyższy w porównaniu z poprzednim okresem, który przełożył się na ostateczny wynik wyborów.
Przenikanie mediów i polityki: demokracja medialna
Authors: Ziemski Andrzej
Published: January 2025

Celem niniejszego opracowania jest wskazanie i uświadomienie głębokich przemian, jakie zachodzą współcześnie w relacjach media – polityka – społeczeństwo – rynek. Przemiany te mają charakter fundamentalny, choć nieuświadomiony, są jednak procesem narastającym szczególnie w dobie kryzysu demokracji liberalnej, rewolucji technologicznej i powszechnej cyfryzacji, która rzutuje na szybkość obiegu informacji. Główna hipoteza badawcza brzmi: nie ma już dziś odwrotu od medialnego ukierunkowania demokracji. Postępowanie tego procesu będzie skutkować istotnymi przemianami w praktyce życia społecznego, przeorientowania sposobu myślenia nie tylko na temat mediów, ich wpływu na nasze codzienne życie i demokrację, ale także na politykę.
Zagrożenia hybrydowe w kontekście wojen buntowniczych względem państw NATO w regionie Morza Bałtyckiego
Authors: Wizimirska-Napora Klaudia
Published: January 2025

The article presents selected factors destabilizing international security, grouped within hy-brid threats towards selected NATO countries in the Baltic Sea region, based on the concept of rebellious wars by J. Messner. The geographical limitations introduced by the author are necessary due to the wide and varied scope of impact of aggression using hybrid methods on NATO member states. Searching for answers to the question of what methods of hybrid operations we are currently dealing with in the Baltic Sea region, based on the concept of rebellious wars, the literature on the subject, media information and official statements and views of experts dealing with international security issues were analyzed. The as-sumptions of the concept of rebel wars and an outline of tools regarding hybrid threats towards NATO countries in the Baltic Sea region are presented. The conclusion, preceded by a research procedurę consisting of logical analysis, abstraction, classification and inference, allows for a preliminary capture of the undertaken research goals against the background of the synthetic characteristics of the described hy-brid threats. The results of the conducted research indicate that Messner's concept is a prototype for modern hybrid wars and a reference point for a better understanding of this phenomenon. Moreover, selected Baltic Sea countries (Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Finland and Poland) within NATO are currently not fully pre-pared to counter hybrid threats. This results not only from the complexity of the threats, but also from the difficulty of their unambiguous recognition and classification. At the same time, the author directs the attention of researchers dealing with this issue to the need to discuss the directions of NATO's development and develop an appropriate strategy adapted to the nature of hybrid threats, which will allow the Alliance to assume responsibility for the security of its members.
Ratownictwo górskie jako specjalistyczna forma ratownictwa
Authors: Andrusikiewicz Wacław
Published: January 2025

Rescue is an activity consisting in providing assistance in situations of threat to life, health, property and the environment. In this respect, mountain rescue should be understood as acting for the benefit of people requiring such assistance in mountain areas. In this respect, the state does not have its own services, but uses the assistance of existing non-governmental organizations on the basis of applicable law. The spec-ificity of the area of operation means that, in addition to the basic ability to provide medical assistance to injured people, a rescuer is also required to be able to move around in mountainous terrain regardless of the time of day, year and weather conditions. In this respect, rescuers must have a number of specific skills that will allow them to reach these people and safely evacuate them from the scene of the incident. Since the ability to move in mountainous areas, especially the most exposed ones such as rock walls or caves, is not a common skill, we can talk about specialized forms of assistance depending on the place where it is pro-vided. The article discusses the specificity of rescue operations depending on the circumstances of the inci-dent in which there are injured people requiring help.
Principles of formation of components of ensuring the development of economic behaviour of enterprises
Authors: Simkova Tetiana , Belyi Mykyta
Published: January 2025

Introduction. Modern economic systems are characterised by the presence of various forms of ownership. This diversity is due to various objective reasons that determine the relevance of the category of ‘economic behaviour of an enterprise’, which contributes to the creation of goods and services at the lowest possible cost. However, such diversity alone cannot guarantee unquestionable economic success. Modern economic science asserts that all economic entities strive for a rational combination of factors of production and coherence between the actions and economic interests of participants. It is generally accepted that the main motivation of all business entities is the desire to maximise profits, which can be achieved only through proper economic behaviour and highly professional management of all its resources.
The purpose of the article is to identify the components of influence on the economic behaviour of an enterprise; to determine the conditions for the formation of economic behaviour of enterprises, to improve the scheme of the process of formation of economic behaviour of enterprises, and to separate the prospects and feasibility of developing a real methodological toolkit for assessing the economic behaviour of enterprises in the context of ensuring the efficiency and effectiveness of their development.
Research methodology. The theoretical and methodological basis of the study are the works of leading domestic and foreign scientists, methodology and systemic principles of conducting comprehensive scientific research. Among the special research methods used in the work are: abstract and logical – to study the development of the issue and summarise the findings; theoretical generalisation – in the process of disclosing the essence of the category of ‘economic behaviour of enterprises’; observation, comparative advantages, economic analysis and comparison – to study the types, factors, methods and trends of influence on the development of economic behaviour of enterprises.
Results. The theoretical basis is studied and the modern scientific space of research of Ukrainian scientists on the economic behaviour of enterprises is formed in the context of theoretical, methodological and applied achievements. A system of ensuring the economic behaviour of enterprises is developed, including the definition of types, factors of influence and methods of evaluation, which allows to identify the tendency of ensuring the economic behaviour of enterprises in terms of prospects and expediency of further developments in the context of ensuring the effectiveness and efficiency of their development.
FIZINIS AKTYVUMAS POPULIARIAUSIŲ LIETUVOS NUOMONĖS FORMUOTOJŲ ĮRAŠUOSE, PASKELBTUOSE „INSTAGRAM“ SOCIALINIAME TINKLE
Authors: Basijokas Robertas , Austys Donatas
Published: January 2025

Prie gyvensenos įpročių formavimo gali prisidėti pla­čiai naudojamų socialinių tinklų nuomonės formuotojai. Jie savo skelbiamu turiniu gali daryti tiek teigiamą, tiek neigiamą poveikį sekėjų gyvensenai. Atsižvelgiant į tai, kad Lietuvoje tokių tyrimų trūksta, šio tyrimo tikslas − įvertinti populiariausių Lietuvos nuomonės formuotojų įrašų, paskelbtų socialiniame tinkle „Instagram“, apie fizinį aktyvumą paplitimą.

Tyrimo medžiaga ir metodai. Šio tyrimo metu buvo anali­zuojami visi (2265) socialiniame tinkle „Instagram“ viešai prieinami populiariausių Lietuvos nuomonės formuotojų įrašai, paskelbti 2022 m. Taikant chi-kvadrato (χ2) testą, įvertintas įrašų pasiskirstymas pagal juos paskelbusių nuomonės formuotojų lytį, amžių, sekėjų, įrašams skirtų reakcijų ir komentarų skaičių bei tikslinę įrašų auditoriją, įrašų tipą, paskelbimų laiką.

Rezultatai. Socialiniame tinkle „Instagram“ įrašai apie fizinį aktyvumą sudarė 273 (12,1%) iš visų analizuotų įrašų. Vyrai bei daugiau sekėjų turintys nuomonės for­muotojai įrašus apie fizinį aktyvumą skelbė santykinai dažniau (atitinkamai 15,8% prieš 10,7% ir 14,1% prieš 10,2%, p<0,050). Įrašai apie fizinį aktyvumą santykinai dažniau buvo skirti mišriai auditorijai bei publikuojami vaizdo įrašų formatu (atitinkamai 16,8% prieš 9,3% ir 19,1% prieš 9,9%, p<0,001). Įrašų apie fizinį aktyvumą pasiskirstymas nebuvo susijęs su juos paskelbusių nuo­monės formuotojų amžiumi, įrašams skirtų reakcijų ir ko­mentarų skaičiumi bei paskelbimo laiku (p>0,050). Ėjimas buvo dažniausia fizinio aktyvumo forma įrašuose, stebėta 4,4% iš visų analizuotų įrašų. Vyrai nuomonės formuotojai dažniau įrašus skelbė apie plaukimą, komandinį sportą bei fizinį aktyvumą sporto salėje (atitinkamai 2,8% prieš 1,5%, 2,0% prieš 0,4% ir 2,9% prieš 1,0%, p<0,05).

Išvados. 2022 metais įrašai apie fizinį aktyvumą sudarė devintadalį populiariausių Lietuvos „Instagram“ soci­alinio tinklo nuomonės formuotojų įrašų. Ėjimas buvo dažniausiai stebima fizinio aktyvumo forma tiek vyrų, tiek moterų nuomonės formuotojų grupėse. Socialiniame tinkle „Instagram“ vyrai bei daugiau sekėjų turintys nuo­monės formuotojai dažniau vaizdavo fizinį aktyvumą savo įrašuose. Socialiniame tinkle „Instagram“ įrašai apie fizinį aktyvumą dažniausiai buvo skirti mišriai tiks­linei auditorijai bei skelbiami vaizdo įrašų formatu.
SIMBOLIU „RAKTO SKYLUTĖ“ PAŽYMĖTŲ MAISTO PRODUKTŲ ŽINOMUMO IR VARTOJIMO TARP VILNIAUS UNIVERSITETO MEDICINOS FAKULTETO STUDENTŲ TYRIMAS
Authors: Subotkevičiūtė Julita , Stukas Rimantas
Published: January 2025

Daugumos su maistu ir jo pasirinkimu susijusių svei­katos problemų galima būtų išvengti, žmones labiau supažindinant su sveikatai palankiais maisto produk­tais ir skatinant gilintis į jų sudėtį bei rinktis tokius produktus, kurių sudėtis geresnė negu kitų tos pačios grupės produktų.

Tyrimo tikslas. Įvertinti Vilniaus universiteto Medi­cinos fakulteto studentų žinias apie simboliu „Rakto skylutė“ pažymėtus maisto produktus bei jų vartojimą.

Tyrimo metodika. Tyrimas buvo atliktas 2024 metų va­sario-kovo mėnesiais. Tyrime dalyvavo Vilniaus univer­siteto Medicinos fakulteto studentai. Iš viso dalyvavo 124 respondentai (46 vyrai ir 78 moterys), kurių am­žius nuo 19 iki 40 metų. Taikyta anoniminė internetinė anketinė apklausa.

Tyrimo rezultatai. Dauguma studentų yra girdėję (87,10 proc.), žino, ką reiškia (80,65 proc.) ir gebėtų atpažinti (79,84 proc.) simbolį „Rakto skylutė“. Didžioji dalis studentų nekreipia dėmesio į simbolį „Rakto skylutė“ ant produktų pakuočių (62,90 proc.) bei jis nedaro įta­kos studentų maisto pasirinkimui (67,74 proc.), ir stu­dentai dažniau nesirenka šiuo simboliu pažymėtų pro­duktų (60,48 proc.). Jeigu studentai perka produktus, pažymėtus simboliu „Rakto skylutė“, dažniausiai tai būna švieži ar šaldyti vaisiai (12,13 proc.), daržovės (13,39 proc.), uogos (10,04 proc.). Šiuo simboliu pažy­mėti produktai pasirenkami daugiausia dėl jų geresnės sudėties (17,76 proc.) ir ekologiškumo (17,24 proc.). Dauguma studentų, kurie nesirenka produktų, pažy­mėtų simboliu „Rakto skylutė“, neatkreipia dėmesio į perkamų produktų ženklinimą (37,93 proc.). Bendram studentų maisto pasirinkimui daugiausia įtakos turi kaina (31,34 proc.), todėl kainai studentai skiria dau­giausia dėmesio, rinkdamiesi maisto produktus. Dau­guma studentų neteikia pirmenybės vietiniams ar tva­riai auginamiems produktams (73,39 proc.), jų maisto pasirinkimui neturi įtakos tai, kas užrašyta ant produkto etiketės (54,84 proc.).

Išvados. Didžioji dalis studentų yra girdėję apie sim­bolį „Rakto skylutė“, žino, ką jis reiškia, ir gebėtų jį atpažinti ant produkto pakuotės. Didžiajai daliai stu­dentų simbolis „Rakto skylutė“ nedaro įtakos maisto pasirinkimui, ir jie nesirenka šiuo simboliu pažymėtų maisto produktų. Jeigu studentai perka maisto produk­tus, pažymėtus simboliu „Rakto skylutė“, tai dažniau­siai būna šviežios ar šaldytos daržovės, vaisiai, uogos. Studentai daugiausia renkasi simboliu „Rakto skylutė“ pažymėtus maisto produktus dėl geresnės jų sudėties, o daugiausia įtakos turintis kriterijus, renkantis simboliu „Rakto skylutė“ pažymėtus produktus, yra jų ekologiš­kumas. Pagrindinis kriterijus, lemiantis studentų maisto pasirinkimą, yra kaina, ir jai studentai skiria daugiausia dėmesio, rinkdamiesi maisto produktus.