bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Transnational households in the context of female migration from Slovakia to Austria
Authors: Sekulová Martina
Published: October 2024

The article concentrates on transnational care-giving practises of Slovak women providing home elder care in Austria related to production and consumption in their families in Slovakia. The article focuses on how trans-border migration influences care-giving, organisation of the household and family practises in domestic workers' families in Slovakia. My argument is that in order to understand deeper contexts and consequences of transnational migration of domestic workers in private households we must consider gender as a complex multi-dimensional category. The emphasis of the article is put on how women reflect and manifest their gender identity and how "ways of doing family" are gendered in transnational families of Slovak elder care providers. Theoretical starting points for analysis are a transnational approach and gender perspective.
"She Gave us Family Life"
Authors: Souralová Adéla
Published: October 2024

Vietnamese families in the Czech Republic often recruit Czech women to look after their children. Put in the context of the dominant scholarship, this is quite a unique case of care work in which the employers are immigrants, while the employees are women of the host country. At the same time, it is an exceptional child care solution in the context of the Czech Republic, where only 1-2% of the population seek individual private child care. Drawing upon qualitative research conducted with Czech nannies, Vietnamese mothers, and their children, the article interprets the experience of Vietnamese immigrants with paid child care as an outcome of the post-migratory redefinition of family relations. In so doing, the paper demonstrates how family ties and child care arrangements are negotiated vis-à-vis the new life in the host country, where the different "normal caring biographies" are supported by the common-sense understanding of what care and/or mothering should be, by social policies, and by everyday practice. I argue that recruitment of the nannies is an essential part of these negotiations. I respond to the following questions: What is the role of delegated child care in post-migratory family arrangements? What are the motivations for and consequences of recruiting Czech nannies in the context of Vietnamese immigrants' family lives? In my paper I put forward the thesis that the post-migratory challenges of family life lead to the recruitment of nannies, which further challenges the family lives of both nannies and immigrants. The article focuses both on the negotiations which result in hiring the nanny and the negotiations originating in the recruitment of Czech nannies.
Limity antropologie dětství
Authors: Fatková Gabriela
Published: October 2024

The aim of this study is to acquaint Czech readers with an often unmentioned sub-discipline of anthropology. This case study of "childhood" in the situation of social exclusion should open discussion on the epistemological barriers that the fieldworker faces when he wants an insight into the child's emic perspective. The main question that the study focuses on is how "childhood" is conceptualised in socially excluded localities. We will try to show a de-essentialised look at childhood as a phenomenon and its clash with the educational system. We will analyse socially excluded "childhood" using Berger's and Luckman's concept of social constructivism and Granovetter's concept of strong and weak ties. The result will be linked with pedagogical discourse, which, until now, entirely formed the way of thinking about children and childhood.
Přerámcování Řecka v českých mainstreamových psaných médiích
Authors: Huleja Jan
Published: October 2024

We would like to document the radical transformation of the media presentation of Greece and the Greeks that occurred at the time of the so-called crisis on the material of Czech mainstream media texts (linguistic data up to 2009 was gained from the Czech National Corpus, data from the years 2010-2012 is based on the author‘s own excerpts). The media texts dedicated to Greece and the Greeks from the period before the crisis and during the crisis reveal the transformation of the media world, and document the transformation of the frame in which Czechs considered Greece at the end of 2012. This frame of mind is also probably shared with the majority of citizens from the so-called responsible countries of the European Union. Research proves that what was evaluated with positive or neutral attributes before the crisis was later often described with negative attributes. The Greek's "story" has been rewritten - his picture was put into a negative frame. Our paper is based on the theory of frames as presented in the works of E. Goffman, C. J. Fillmore, J. Butler, and especially G. Lakoff, who applies this theory in the field of media communication and indicates its potential as an interpretive tool for grasping the media image of the world.
Hana Horáková: Kultura jako všelék? Kritika soudobých přístupů.
Authors: Jakoubek Marek
Published: October 2024

A review of the book by Hana Horáková.
Archivní materiály s vojvodovskou tematikou z výzkumu Ivy Heroldové na jižní Moravě v roce 1973 a jejich dopad na vojvodovský výzkum
Authors: Jakoubek Marek
Published: October 2024

The text presents an analysis of the material presented in "A Selected Edition of Archive Materials Concerning Vojvodovo from the Research Carried Out by Iva Heroldová in Southern Moravia in 1973", i.e. the materials gathered by the named researcher during her research of re-émigrés from Bulgarian Vojvodovo in newly settled villages. The analysis is aimed mainly on the meaning of the recorded testimonies of Vojvodovo contemporaries, and that on two fronts: chiefly that, which is in relation to the question of the origin of the founders of Vojvodovo in light of the so-called sectarian hypothesis, respectively, the hypothesis on the origin of the specific religiosity found in the Vojvodovo community. In the first case, we see that the origin of the first settlers of Vojvodovo was much more varied than was thought, and that Svatá Helena was not the only location that the Czechs in Vojvodovo came from. In the second case, the newly found materials show that the radical faith of the Vojvodovo Czechs was evidently not the result of past traditions, but a new element which resulted as a reaction to the influence of Protestant missionary revivals that were active in the region at the time. Aside from the mentioned issues, the analysis also discusses the question of keeping the Czech language alive among the members of the given community. In conclusion, the analysis is placed into the context of all of Iva Heroldová's work.
Výběrová edice archivních karet s vojvodovskou tematikou z výzkumu Ivy Heroldové na jižní Moravě v roce 1973
Authors: Jakoubek Marek
Published: October 2024

This edition presents the transcription of several archive materials on Vojvodovo, representing the research results of Iva Heroldová, carried out in villages with new settlers in Southern Moravia in 1973. Aside from the detailed formal and subjective characteristics of the source and the explanation of the methods used to process it, the presentation of relevant archive material is preceded by a short summary of the research activities of I. Heroldová and the place that Southern Moravian research and its results take in them. Emphasis is placed especially on the issue of (not) utilising this research in I. Heroldová's studies dedicated to Vojvodovo.
Work in a Globalizing World: Gender, Mobility, Markets. 5th Annual Seminar in History and Sociology of the Bielefeld Graduate School in History and Sociology (BGHS)
Authors: Pustulka Paula
Published: October 2024

Although global labour is not a new phenomenon for the disciplines of social sciences and history, it has recently gained attention due to novel approaches to certain dichotomies, such as work and non-work or translocality and nation state. Furthermore, classic analytical axis of ethnicity, gender and social class, paired with crucial importance of human cross-border mobility have provided new aspects for advanced theoretical and empirical studies of globality, as it pertains to international migration, labour markets, changes brought to employments and beyond-border gender orders. As such, the 5th Annual Seminar of BGHS, held between 8th and 10th of April 2013 brought together experienced scholars as well as doctoral researchers from across disciplines, providing a space for peer-exchange of ideas and inviting contributions on conceptual, analytical and practical levels.
Thomas Hylland Eriksen: Etnicita a nacionalismus. Antropologické perspektivy.
Authors: Šerá Eva
Published: October 2024

A review of the book by Thomas Hylland Eriksen.
Das Problem der Datierung des Vegetius bei Michael B. Charles (2007) und in der Forschung der Folgejahre
Authors: Brendel Raphael
Published: October 2024

This paper provides an overview on the studies concerning the date of Vegetius in four parts. The first one is a detailed discussion of Charles’ book. Second, its reviews are examined for further arguments. Third, the scholarship of the following years is collected. Fourth, Maier’s studies on the “Palastkaisertum” are investigated as a possible way for a better contextualisation of Vegetius.
Michael Hanaghan, David Woods (eds.), Ammianus Marcellinus from Soldier to Author
Authors: Türel Tunç
Published: October 2024

Book review on Michael Hanaghan, David Woods (eds.), Ammianus Marcellinus from Soldier to Author. Leiden / Boston: Brill, 2022, xii + 420 pages, maps, pictures, ISBN 978-90-04-52529-0 (hardback), 978-90-04-52535-1 (ebook)
Latin Verbal Prefix ex- in Regard to Aspect
Authors: Vaníková Martina
Published: October 2024

This paper investigates the role of the verbal prefix ex- as a component in Latin aspect. The author provides definitions of “aspect”, “Aktionsart” and “situation type”, and particularly sets light to the term “telicity”, distinguishing between the “inherent telicity” and “maximal telicity”. Based on a meticulous examination of all occurrences of the indicative imperfect of verbs with the prefix ex- in a comprehensive corpus encompassing well-preserved Latin texts from Plautus to Ovid, the author verifies her hypothesis that the prefix ex- adds the notion of telicity to the verbs, and that the most common interpretation of their imperfects is the iterativity of telic events.
Zwei Beiträge zum comes Orientis Iulianus, dem Onkel Kaiser Julians
Authors: Brendel Raphael
Published: October 2024

This is a study of two questions concerning the life of Iulianus (who was comes Orientis under his nephew, the emperor Julian). The first part identifies the unnamed uncle of Julian and lover of chariot races in Misopogon 5 [340a] not as Iulianus, as usually assumed, but as Constantine the Great. The second part shows that the Christian wife of Iulianus, who is first mentioned in Theodoret (Hist. eccl. III, 13, 2–3), is an invention inspired by the wife of Pilate (Mt 27, 19). The first appendix offers a few additional notes on Constantia as the alleged name for Julian’s sister. The second appendix is a complete prosopographical entry for Iulianus.
Angiotensin II Receptor Blockage Prevents Diabetes-Induced Oxidative Damage in Rat Heart
Authors: Ozdemir Semir , Tandogan B. , Ulusu N. N. , Turan B.
Published: October 2024

Current findings suggest a role for the angiotensin II (Ang II) signalling pathway in generation of reactive oxygen species and diabetes-induced cardiac complications. In this study we aimed to investigate the effect of angiotensin II type 1 (AT1) receptor blockage on some antioxidant enzy mes such as glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD), 6-phoshogluconate dehydrogenase (6PGD), glutathione reductase (GR), glutathione-S-transferase (GST), gluta thione peroxidase (GSH-Px), and catalase (CAT) in the heart of streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic rats. The effect of AT1 receptor blocker, candesartan-cilexetil (5 mg/kg/day for 4 weeks) was studied. Diabetes caused hyperglycaemia (4-fold of control) with significant increases in G6PD, 6PGD, GR, GSH-PX, CAT and no effect on GST in heart tissues as compared to normal control rats. Treatment of STZ-induced diabetic rats with candesartan-cilexetil had sig nificant beneficial effects on these parameters without any side effect on control rats. These results suggest that Ang II can take part in induction of oxidative stress in diabetic rat heart and that blockage of its activity by AT1 receptor blocker is potentially protective against diabetes-induced cellular damage.
Synergy of Serum and Cerebrospinal Fluid Antibodies Against Axonal Cytoskeletal Proteins in Patients with Different Neurological Diseases
Authors: Fialová Lenka , Bartoš A. , Soukupová J. , Švarcová J. , Ridzoň P. , Malbohan I.
Published: October 2024

Autoantibodies against different axonal cytoskeletal proteins [the light (NFL) and medium (NFM) subunit of neurofilament and tubulin (TUB)] in serum and cerebrospinal fluid may be generated in response to the release of cytoskeleton from damaged neurons. We studied the relationships among these autoantibodies. Paired cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and serum samples were obtained from 47 multiple sclerosis (MS) patients, 14 patients with neurodegenerative diseases, 21 patients with various neurological diseases and 16 normal control subjects. Levels of antibodies against NFL, NFM and TUB were related to each other in CSF in all groups, whereas close association of anti-cytoskeletal antibodies in serum was found in the MS group only. A concordant spectrum of anti-cytoskeletal antibodies is present in serum of MS patients, unlike in other neurological patients. The synergy between the spectrum of anti-cytoskeletal antibodies in serum and CSF might be one of the immunological features typical for the MS patients.
Mesenchymal Progenitor Cells in Red and Yellow Bone Marrow
Authors: Gurevitch Olga , Slavin S. , Resnick I. , Khitrin S. , Feldman A.
Published: October 2024

Marrow cavities in all bones of newborn mammals contain haematopoietic tissue and stromal microenvironment that support haematopoiesis (haematopoietic microenvironment), known as red bone marrow (BM). From the early postnatal period onwards, the haematopoietic microenvironment, mainly in tubular bones of the extremities, is replaced by mesenchymal cells that accumulate lipid drops, known as yellow BM, whereas haematopoietic tissue gradually disappears. We analysed the ability of mesenchymal cell progenitors in red and yellow BM to produce bone and haematopoietic microenvironment in vivo after transplantation into normal or haematopoietically deficient (irradiated and old) recipients. We found that (1) normal substitution of red with yellow BM results from a gradual loss of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) capable of developing bone and haematopoietic microenvironment; (2) the mesenchymal cell population in tubular bones still containing active haematopoietic tissue gradually becomes depleted of MSCs, starting from a young age; (3) haematopoietic microenvironment is incapable of self-maintenance and its renewal depends on the presence of precursor cells; (4) the mesenchymal cell population remaining in areas with yellow BM contains cells able to develop functionally active haematopoietic microenvironment in conditions of haematopoietic insufficiency. Our data also indicate the possible existence of bi-potential stromal precursor cells producing either bone in normal, or bone together with active haematopoietic microenvironment in irradiated or old recipients. This study opens a spectrum of opportunities for the extension of haematopoietic territories by substituting the fat contents of BM cavities with haematopoietic tissue, thereby improving haematopoiesis compromised by cytotoxic treatments, irradiation, ageing, etc.
Collaboration or competition? The value of sector-wide collaboration in educational technology research
Authors: Huijser Henk , Ames Kate , Bozkurt Aras , Corrin Linda , Costello Eamon , Cowling Michael , Czerniewicz Laura , Deneen Chris , Han Feifei , Littlejohn Allison , Wise Alyssa , Wright Mary , Zou Tracy
Published: October 2024

Collaboration or competition? This question is at the centre of this editorial, which explores the importance of sector-wide approaches to research into educational technology. This has become particularly relevant in recent years in response to a range of significant challenges or disruptions the tertiary education sector has had to face, for example, responding to the COVID-19 pandemic or the emergence of new generative AI tools. To address these challenges, we have taken a collaborative approach to writing this editorial, with contributing authors from across the world responding to four key questions. The responses to those questions were then arranged into four key themes: collaboration in response to disruption, individual benefits from collaboration, communal benefits from collaboration, and ensuring collaborative wisdom. The editorial concludes with a section that situates the preceding discussion in a broader context and challenges us to consider our wider impact on the world as a sector and, in particular, as related to educational technology. We conclude that collaboration is a must and has the potential to empower us to push the boundaries of what is possible.
Cardiovascular responses to heat and cold exposure are altered by preterm birth in guinea pigs
Authors: Sixtus Ryan Phillip , Gray Clint , Barnes Heather , Paterson Emily Sarah Jane , Berry Mary Judith , Dyson Rebecca Maree
Published: October 2024

Adversity early in life can modify the trajectory for disease risk extending decades beyond the event. Preterm birth produces persistent cardiovascular alterations that may appear maladaptive in adulthood. We have previously hypothesized that those born preterm may exhibit cardiovascular vulnerability in the climate change context. Further, this vulnerability may be present as early as childhood. We aimed to identify the early signs of cardiovascular dysfunction at childhood‐equivalent age using our animal model of preterm birth. Using a whole‐body thermal stress test, guinea pigs aged 35‐d and 38‐d (equivalent to 8–10‐year‐old children) and born at term or preterm gestations were exposed to progressive hyper‐ (TC = 41.5°C) and hypo‐thermia (TC = 34°C; normothermia TC = 39°C). Comprehensive cardiovascular monitoring included ECG, blood pressure, microvascular perfusion, blood gas, and catecholamine profile, as well as skin and core body temperature. Preterm‐born animals exhibited attenuated vascular responses to hyperthermic stress, and a significant elevation in systolic blood pressure in response to hypothermic stress. Such responses are similar to those observed in elderly populations and indicate the presence of cardiovascular dysfunction. This is the first study to demonstrate the impact of preterm birth on the cardiovascular response to both heat and cold stress. Further, this dysfunction has been observed at an earlier age than that achievable using traditional stress testing techniques. The present findings warrant further investigation.
Definite four-manifolds with exotic smooth structures
Authors: Stipsicz András I. , Szabó Zoltán
Published: October 2024

In this paper, we study smooth structures on closed, oriented four-manifolds with fundamental group

Z
/
2

⁢
Z

\mathbb{Z}/2\mathbb{Z}

and definite intersection form.
We construct infinitely many irreducible, oriented, closed, definite, smooth four-manifolds with

π
1

=

Z
/
2

⁢
Z

\pi_{1}=\mathbb{Z}/2\mathbb{Z}

and

b
2

=
1

b_{2}=1

, and

b
2

=
2

b_{2}=2

.
As an application, we prove that, when the second Betti number

b
2

b_{2}

of a definite four-manifold with

π
1

=

Z
/
2

⁢
Z

\pi_{1}=\mathbb{Z}/2\mathbb{Z}

is positive and it admits a smooth structure, then it admits infinitely many smooth structures.
Thalassokratie, ein Leitprinzip byzantinischer Machtpolitik (6.–11. Jahrhundert)
Authors: Kislinger Ewald
Published: October 2024

For centuries the Byzantine empire was confronted not only with terrestrial attacks, but had to defend its territories also against enemies advancing from the sea. A central fleet with the dromon as standard type was created, based at Constantinople with its strong defences and excellent harbours, supported later by smaller provincial units. The present study depicts the development during the half millenium, when Byzantium ruled the seas (thalassocracy) and/or tried to defend its supremacy, especially against the Arabs. Due to the lack of further hostile challenge the whole system crumbled during the eleventh century and the imperial navy later on never regained its maritime strength. Especially Venice, a former outpost of Byzantium, filled the gap, successfully combining economic interests with naval strength.
Phase and microstructural characterization of swat soapstone (Mg3Si4O10(OH)2)
Authors: Ali Sajjad , Ahmad Salar , Iqbal Asif , Ullah Rizwan , Ali Ali Hasan , Ullah Ikram , Alam Mohammad Mahtab
Published: October 2024

This study focuses on the comprehensive exploration of Swat soapstone, employing a range of analytical techniques, including X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy-dispersive X-ray (EDX) spectroscopy, Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, and X-ray fluorescence (XRF) spectroscopy. XRD was used to identify the phase and lattice parameters of the soapstone. SEM further scrutinizes the dispersed soapstone particles, revealing different structural characteristics such as a slightly elongated, cubic-like structure, a straight rod-like formation, and a rough, textured surface. EDX spectroscopy was utilized for studying the elemental composition of the soapstone. The analysis identifies talc as the primary mineral in Swat soapstone, with iron, an element, also contributing notably to its composition. This underscores the complexity of Swat soapstone’s internal structure. XRF analysis further contributes to the elemental characterization, revealing a dominant composition of silicon (Si) at 48.567 wt% and a notable contribution from iron (Fe) at 16.108 wt%. FTIR analysis confirmed the absorption of infrared radiation at the non-bridging oxygen (Si–O–) within the silicate network and the Si–O–Si bending vibration. This work investigates the chemical and morphological details of the Swat soapstone.
Erschwerte Trauer unter Pandemie-Bedingungen?
Authors: Schmid Fran , Büssing Arndt , Baumann Klaus
Published: October 2024

Hintergrund: In der Corona-Pandemie war das Abschiednehmen von Sterbenden erschwert oder sogar nicht möglich. Wie wurden die Situation und Bedarfe von Trauernden und die Handlungsmöglichkeiten, darauf einzugehen, im medizinischen, psychologischen und theologischen Wissenschaftsdiskurs eingeschätzt?

Methoden: Ein Scoping Review, durchgeführt im Rahmen ihrer theologischen Abschlussarbeit von Fran Schmid, widmete sich der Frage, welche wissenschaftlich begründeten Handlungsempfehlungen zwischen März 2020 und März 2021 in Psychologie und Theologie international für die Verbesserung der Situation von Trauernden während der Coronapandemie gegeben wurden. 688 Artikel wurden in fünf Datenbanken gesichtet, 12 in das Review eingeschlossen.

Ergebnisse: 113 Handlungsempfehlungen lassen sich gruppieren in eine persönliche Ebene (16), eine institutionelle Ebene (76), eine systemische Ebene (21). Identifiziert wurden die thematischen Kategorien Kommunikation, Selbsthilfestrategien, Verbindung zwischen Zugehörigen und Sterbenden/Verstorbenen, Beratung und Informationen, Angebote und Ressourcen, Risikofaktoren, Interdisziplinäre Vernetzung, Rituale und Feiern, Modelle und Strategien. Vier Gruppen von Handlungssubjekten wurden unterschieden: Trauernde und ihr soziales Umfeld; Freiwillige und Berufsgruppen mit Kontakt zu Trauernden; Institutionen im Gesundheitswesen; Unternehmen und Staaten.

Ausblick: Spiritual Care kann Trauernden Verschiedenes bieten: direkte Begegnung, Bildungs- und Unterstützungsangebote für das soziale Umfeld, eine Verbesserung institutioneller Abläufe, Prävention- und Unterstützungsangeboten auf Ebene des Gesundheitswesens. Weitere Entwicklung verdient das Thema der interdisziplinären Vernetzung.
Study of mechanical and thermophysical properties of Ni3Ti
Authors: Srivastava Roshni , Singh Ramanshu P. , Mishra Giridhar
Published: October 2024

This research assesses the thermophysical and ultrasonic characteristics of the intermetallic compound Ni3Ti, which has a hexagonal crystalline structure. The selected material exhibits many noteworthy characteristics, including the shape memory effect, a high melting point, extremely elastic qualities, etc. The Lennard-Jones potential model has been used to calculate the higher-order elastic constants. The mechanical properties of the material, which provide details regarding its stability and intrinsic qualities, are computed using the second-order elastic constants. Additionally, we have computed the thermal conductivity at 300 K, specific heat, ultrasonic velocities, and Debye temperature. Ultimately, the ultrasonic attenuation is determined using all of the available parameters. The obtained results agree with the data available in the literature.
Success drivers of equity crowdfunding campaign. Empirical evidence from Poland
Authors: Swacha-Lech Magdalena , Kurek Robert
Published: October 2024

The success factors of equity crowdfunding are already well recognized in the literature but have not previously been studied in Poland. The aim of the paper is to fill the research gap by identifying the determinants of equity crowdfunding success in Poland based on empirical data. The article investigates whether and how entrepreneurs’ conscious use of the non-financial benefits linked to equity crowdfunding (ECF) influences the campaign’s success in Poland. We used data from a survey on the determinants of the success of equity crowdfunding. We conducted the survey using CAWI and CATI methods between September 2021 and January 2022 in collaboration with the Biostat Research and Development Centre as well as Beesfund, Crowdway and FindFunds platforms. Fifty-six companies accepted the invitation to participate in the study. Ultimately, the logistic regression model estimation was based on data obtained from 49 companies (28 of which had already succeeded in the equity crowdfunding campaign). Using the acquired data, we estimated a logistic regression model. As the results of our research show, the likelihood of campaign success is increased by the perception of equity crowdfunding as a tool enabling the acquisition of product and market knowledge, while using this form of financing mainly to obtain funds adversely affects the likelihood of campaign success. The results confirm that in Poland, as in other European countries, equity crowdfunding is no longer seen as a source of last-resort funding but is becoming more than just a fundraising tool. We recommend that entrepreneurs who plan to use this form of financing take advantage of the knowledge and experience of investors and treat equity crowdfunding as a strategic or first choice.
Attitudes of manufacturers toward the value attributes of regional product brands
Authors: Beran Vojtech , Dedkova Jaroslava
Published: October 2024

The increasing consumption of regional products is pivotal in fostering regional development, a phenomenon analyzed in various academic discourses. This article aims to contribute to the existing knowledge base by exploring the attributes of regional brands of products, specifically from the perspective of regional producers (regional brand of product holders). Unfortunately, this topic remains underexplored within academia, resulting in the need for an in-depth investigation. The article undertook a comprehensive analysis of articles in reputable databases such as Web of Science and Scopus, focusing on brand, brand equity, and regional product brands to address this research gap. The primary objective of this article is to describe the attitudes ofregional brand producers towards attributes of brand equity in the case ofregional brand products. The paper also presents the outcomes of quantitative marketing research. The research employed the computer-assisted web interviewing (CAWI) method, collecting data between November and December 2023. The presented research is based on a substantial sample of 101 respondents from the Czech Republic. The statistical software IBM SPS Statistics and XLSTAT program were subsequently used for data calculation and presentation. Semantic differential, descriptive statistics, and hierarchical cluster analysis were applied to the data analysis. It was found that some groups of regional producers have similar attitudes toward the attributes of regional product brands. All results and findings are then discussed. Exploration advances the understanding of regional product brands’ dynamics and provides a valuable foundation for future research in this field.
Bone health in childhood cancer survivors, is there really a problem? Pitfalls of assessment, calculating risk, and suggested surveillance and management for osteonecrosis and low and very low bone mineral density
Authors: de Winter Demi T C , Neggers Sebastian J C M M , van den Heuvel-Eibrink Marry M , van Atteveld Jenneke E
Published: October 2024

Childhood cancer survivors are at increased risk of developing (long-term) skeletal adverse effects, such as osteonecrosis, impaired bone mineral density, and fractures. This paper provides an overview of the current understanding of bone health in these survivors, examining whether it represents a significant concern. It focusses on the challenges of assessing and managing bone health in childhood cancer survivors, highlighting diagnostic pitfalls, methods for accurately identifying those at high risk, and suggested strategies for the surveillance and management of osteonecrosis and impaired bone mineral density. The need for improved surveillance strategies, particularly for high-risk survivors, alongside potential prevention and management options, including pharmacological and lifestyle interventions, is emphasised. Given the lack of consensus on optimal prevention and treatment strategies, the paper emphasises the need for further research to optimise care and improve long-term outcomes for childhood cancer survivors with bone health impairments.
Hyperglycemia secondary to phosphatidylinositol-3 kinase (PI3K) inhibition
Authors: Sriravindrarajah Arunan , Hurwitz Joshua , Lim Elgene , Greenfield Jerry R
Published: October 2024

Phosphatidylinositol-3 kinase (PI3K) is a critical intracellular pathway that regulates cell growth, metabolism, and survival and has been implicated in most human cancers. Targeting this pathway has been approved as a therapeutic option for breast cancer and lymphoma (e.g. alpelisib, idelalisib), and there are several clinical trials underway in additional types of cancer. However, PI3K is an important mediator of the action of insulin, and the use of PI3K inhibitors has been associated with hyperglycemia. We report the case of a 53-year-old female with metastatic breast cancer who developed acute grade 3 hyperglycemia from a novel PI3K inhibitor, inavolisib. We review the treatment options for PI3K inhibitor-associated hyperglycemia. Treatment strategies that minimize hyperinsulinemia may be preferable considering animal models have demonstrated that hyperinsulinemia may result in partial reactivation of the PI3K pathway and counter the anti-cancer effectiveness of PI3K inhibitors.

Learning points

Phosphatidylinositol-3 kinase (PI3K) is an intracellular pathway that regulates a range of physiological functions, including cell growth, metabolism, survival, and angiogenesis.

Hyperactivation of the PI3K pathway is associated with almost all human cancers, and thus PI3K inhibition has been proposed as a treatment option for selected cancers.

The action of insulin after binding to the insulin receptor on the cell surface (e.g. glucose uptake in skeletal muscle, inhibition of glycogenolysis and gluconeogenesis) is mediated by the intracellular PI3K pathway, and thus PI3K inhibition may lead to hyperinsulinemic hyperglycemia.

All patients treated with PI3K inhibitors should receive pre-treatment screening for hyperglycemia, lifestyle advice, and a glucometer to measure fasting BGL and 2-h post-dinner BGL levels twice per week for at least the first 30 days of treatment.

Insulin or insulin secretagogues (e.g. sulfonylurea) may inhibit the anti-tumor activity of PI3K inhibitors, and thus treatment of PI3K inhibitor-associated hyperglycemia should prefer alternative approaches such as a low carbohydrate diet, metformin, SGLT2i, or dose reduction of the PI3K inhibitor.
Thyroglobulin and calcitonin measurements: pitfalls and future perspectives
Authors: Mater Amber , Boelen Anita , Heijboer Annemieke C , Hillebrand Jacquelien J
Published: October 2024

Thyroid cancer is the most prevalent endocrine cancer, and the prognosis depends on the type and stage of cancer at the time of discovery. The treatment involves (hemi-)thyroidectomy, possibly followed by additional therapeutic options. After treatment, patients are monitored using serum concentrations of endocrine tumour markers: thyroglobulin (Tg) in case of differentiated cancer and calcitonin in case of medullary thyroid cancer. Measuring Tg and calcitonin concentrations in serum may be challenging. In this review, we provide a complete overview of the evolution in laboratory measurements of Tg and calcitonin, with an emphasis on (pre-)analytical challenges and potential approaches to overcome current pitfalls.
Centro Integrado de Educación de Adultos (CINDEA): An educational modality that achieves goals in technical instruction in Costa Rica
Authors: Cruz Villalobos Marianela
Published: October 2024

This essay discusses how the Centros Integrados de Educación de Adultos (CINDEA) collaborate to break educational barriers in technical training in Costa Rica and how these institutions are a bridge between formal education and the labor market, by providing people with the possibility of developing skills valued in the professional environment.  The objective of this essay is to socialize the work dynamics employed in this modality and to expose how it promotes equal opportunities by allowing all people over 15 years of age, without exception, to develop knowledge related to a technical area.  It also discusses the challenges they face that, in many cases, hinder their important work in Costa Rican education.
THE COMPOSITION OF STRUCTURAL FRAGMENTS BOUND VIA SULPHIDE AND ETHER/ESTER BRIDGES IN PETROLEUM AND NATURAL BITUMEN OILS
Authors: ANTIPENKO V.R. , BAKANOVA O.S.
Published: October 2024

Selective chemical cleavage (chemolysis) of C-S and C-O bonds of sulphide and ether/ester bridges, respectively, are presented. The revealed difference in the structural-group and molecular composition of some types of compounds before and after chemolysis indicates that alkanes, alkyltrimethylbenzenes, naphthalenes, phenanthrenes, tetra- and pentacyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, and dibenzothiophenes are present in oils not only as molecular entities, but, partially, as structural fragments linked via sulphide and ether/ester bridges with other fragments in complex high-molecular entities. Ester-bound high-molecular С20-С30 homologues predominate among the bound alkanes. The proportion of C13-C16 homologues among alkyltrimethylbenzenes decreases after chemolysis. Chemolysis is accompanied by an increase in the proportion of С3-С4 naphthalenes in petroleum oils. The ratio of homologues among phenanthrenes changes after chemolysis: as a rule, the unsubstituted compound predominates over homologues. The ratio of fluoranthene and pyrene to benzanthracene and chrysene increases among tetracyclic aromatic hydrocarbons. The main trend in the changes in the composition of dibenzothiophenes after chemolysis is a sharp decrease in the proportion of unsubstituted homologue.
INTERPRETATION OF NONMONOTONIC RHEOKINETIC DEPENDENCES OF FLUIDITY CHANGE
Authors: KOZHEVNIKOV I.S. , BOGOSLOVSKII A.V. , ALTUNINA L.K.
Published: October 2024

The results of rheokinetic measurements of changes in the fluidity of gel-forming compositions of various natures obtained by the methods of rotational and selection viscometry are presented. A technique for processing measurement results obtained by means of vibrational viscometry in measuring vessels of different sizes has been developed. Two directions of the interpretation of nonmonotonic rheokinetic dependences are considered.
EFFECT OF MODIFYING ADDITIVES ON THE PHASE TRANSITION OF ANATASE TO RUTILE
Authors: LOKSHIN E.P. , SEDNEVA T.A. , BELIKOV M.L.
Published: October 2024

The results of studies on changes in the chemical composition and structure of doped titanium hydroxide during thermal treatment are analysed. It is shown that anatase is formed at first under heating in all cases, and with further increase in temperature or in the duration of thermal treatment it is transformed into rutile. The temperature of the start of anatase-rutile transition depends on the type of doping component. The transition proceeds not abruptly at a certain temperature but gradually over a wide temperature range, while both compounds can exist simultaneously. At a constant temperature, the proportion of rutile increases with an increase in the duration of thermal treatment. It is concluded on the basis of the conducted studies that the samples of titanium dioxide in the presence of doping components represent the broad classes of non-stoichiometric compounds with different crystal structures, and the transition of anatase to rutile is not a polymorphic transformation of the 1st kind but it is a consequence of various chemical processes involving the release of anionic and/or cationic impurities into the gas or solid phases.
EVALUATION OF ANTIOXIDANT ACTIVITY OF 2H-CHROMENE DERIVATIVES THROUGH OPTIMIZED GREEN SYNTHESIS
Authors: PATEL S.A. , PATEL S.P. , VAGHANI H.V. , KUMBHANI J.H.
Published: October 2024

The increasing concern for environmental sustainability and the need for efficient and green chemical synthesis have driven the development of alternative methods for producing new compounds. In this study, we have synthesized a series of novel 2H-chromene derivatives using a one-pot multicomponent reaction under ultrasound sonication. The use of ultrasound sonication is a green and efficient synthetic method that utilizes sound waves to initiate chemical reactions. We optimized various reaction parameters, such as solvent, temperature, catalyst amount, and reaction time, to identify the best reaction conditions for the synthesis of the derivatives. The synthesized compounds were characterized using analytical techniques such as IR, mass, 1H and 13C NMR spectra, which confirmed the molecular structures of the derivatives. Furthermore, the antioxidant activities of the synthesized derivatives were evaluated and compared to those of ascorbic acid. The IC50 values of the derivatives were promising, indicating their potential as antioxidants. Overall, this study demonstrates the effectiveness of ultrasound sonication as a green and sustainable approach to the synthesis of novel compounds with potential biological activities. The use of one-pot multicomponent reactions also adds to the efficiency and simplicity of the synthesis method. These findings may have important implications for the development of new and sustainable chemical synthesis methods in the future.
CATHODIC EVOLUTION OF HYDROGEN ON IRON DISILICIDE IN ALKALINE ELECTROLYTE
Authors: POLKOVNIKOV I.S. , PANTELEEVA V.V. , SHEIN A.B.
Published: October 2024

The kinetics and mechanism of hydrogen evolution on the FeSi2 electrode in 0.25-1.0 M NaOH solutions have been studied by polarisation and impedance measurements. The cathodic polarisation curves of iron disilicide in the studied solutions are characterized by a Tafel region with constants α and β equal to (-0.78)-(-0.72) and (-0.133)-(-0.128) V, respectively. The impedance spectra of FeSi2 at the potentials of the Tafel region represent a capacitive semicircle with a displaced centre, which corresponds to an asymmetric maximum in the graph of phase angle dependence on the logarithm of the alternating current frequency; the magnitude of the electrode impedance in all solutions changes in accordance with the course of the polarization curves. To describe the hydrogen evolution reaction on iron disilicide, an equivalent electrical circuit was used, the Faraday impedance of which consists of series-connected charge-transfer resistances and a parallel circuit responsible for the adsorption of atomic hydrogen on the surface and its diffusion into the depth of the electrode material; the circuit also includes the electrolyte resistance and the double-layer capacitance impedance, which is modelled by a constant phase element. It is shown that the results of polarization and impedance measurements for the FeSi2 electrode are in satisfactory agreement with the discharge-electrochemical desorption mechanism, in which both stages are irreversible and have unequal transfer coefficients; for adsorbed atomic hydrogen, the Langmuir adsorption isotherm is satisfied; simultaneously with the reaction of hydrogen evolution, the reaction of hydrogen absorption by the electrode material proceeds with diffusion control. It has been found that iron disilicide in an alkaline electrolyte is characterised by the low overvoltage of hydrogen evolution, and it is a promising electrode material for the electrolytic production of hydrogen.
ANTIOXIDANT ACTIVITY OF QUINOXALYL HYDRAZONES OF 2-HYDROXYIMINO-1,3-DICARBONYL COMPOUNDS
Authors: ANENKO D.S. , BOBROV P.S. , ABISALOVA I.L. , SUBOCH G.A. , SERGEEVA E.O. , GLIZHOVA T.N.
Published: October 2024

Biosimilarity and pharmacokinetic descriptors were obtained using SwissADME and ADMETlab 2.0 web services. Analysis of the obtained descriptors shows that, according to Lipinski’s rule, quinoxalyl hydrazones of 2-hydroximino-1,3-dioxocompounds may be promising candidates for drug development for oral administration. Analysis of the pharmacokinetic descriptors of the structures studied shows that, according to the in silico predictions, the compounds can penetrate the blood-brain barrier, be absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract, bind to plasma proteins, be rapidly eliminated from target cells and inhibit CYP3A4, CYP1A2, CYP2C19 and CYP2D6 isoenzymes. The antioxidant activity of quinoxalyl hydrazone derivatives with different benzoyl, ester and acetyl moieties has been studied. Pharmacological screening of the obtained compounds was performed in vitro in the model of Fe2+-induced lipid peroxidation. The data of pharmacological screening indicate clearly pronounced inhibition of lipid peroxidation in the system of yolk lipoproteins by the compounds obtained, which indicates a significant contribution of quinoxalone scaffold in the manifestation of antioxidant properties. Variations in the structure of the starting 1,3-dicarbonyl compounds did not result in significant changes in the antioxidant activity of the obtained hydrazones. The compounds obtained can be promising compounds with marked antioxidant activity for further in vivo studies, including investigation of acute and chronic toxicity. The leading compound is tolyl-substituted quinoxalyl hydrazone IIb
Optimizing skin wound healing: The crucial role of the innate immune system and inflammatory microenvironment
Authors: Rybkowska Paulina
Published: October 2024

Skin, as a part of the innate immune system, represents the first line of defense against pathogens. Each mechanical damage to the skin surface disrupts its homeostasis, thus rapidly inducing the cascade of repair processes. Wound healing comprises 4 subsequent and overlapping steps: hemostasis, inflammation, proliferation, and remodeling. The interplay of the abovementioned phases results in successful cell restoration and tissue repair. The efficiency of wound healing depends on numerous internal and external factors. The proper recruitment of immune cells, such as neutrophils and macrophages, and their interactions with keratinocytes, fibroblasts, and extracellular matrix (ECM) accounts for one of the most significant elements affecting this process. Despite the interaction of the immune cells, the development of a highly favorable microenvironment surrounding the damaged area also constitutes a vital component of successful healing. These optimal conditions combined with the inflow of stimuli, such as cytokines and growth factors, lead to complete wound closure and skin surface restoration. Nevertheless, in order to increase the efficiency of wound healing treatment and improve existing technologies, it is essential to gain a deeper understanding of the healing steps’ complexity. In this work, we elucidated basic mechanisms regarding skin injury sealing with a focus on the creation of a highly beneficial inflammatory microenvironment. The presented paper outlines current approaches to managing the excessive inflammation of the skin wound microenvironment to improve the treatment of chronic wounds. The most important perspectives in immunology phase modulation include the use of pharmaceuticals, natural bioactive compounds, immunomodulatory scaffolds, skin substitutes, cell-based therapies, and growth factors or cytokines injections.
Evaluation of lignocellulatic activity of enzymes from microwave-irradiated Pleurotus sajor-caju cultivated with wheat straw
Authors: Al-Rajhi Aisha M. H. , Bazaid Abdulrahman S. , Abdulfattah Ahmed M. , Abdelghany T. M. , Shater Abdel-Rahman M. , Selim Samy
Published: October 2024

The production of lignocellulytic enzymes by microwave-radiated Pleurotus sajor-caju was assayed. Wheat straw was employed as substrate to P. sajor-caju for production of laccase, manganese peroxidase (MnPase), filter-paperase (FPase), carboxmethyl cellulase (CMCase), and cellulase (as evaluated using microcrystalline cellulose). P. sajor-caju exposed to 10 s of microwave radiation (MR) showed maximum growth with colony radius of 7.17 ± 0.45 cm, while with increasing the exposure time up to 50 s the growth decreased up to 2.67 ± 0.22 cm. Moreover, it failed to grow at 80 s of exposure time. Cellulase, MnPase, FPase, CMCase, and laccase activities were induced to 37 ± .0.54, 49 ± 2.36, 189 ± 2.12, 0.37 ± 0.06, and 1.58 ± 0.03 U/mL compared to that at control 31 ± 0.25, 46 ± 1.25, 177 ± 1.65, 0.28 ± 0.03, and 1.37 ± 0.12 U/mL, respectively as a result of P. sajor-caju exposure to 10 s of MR. As the exposure time increased, these enzymes activity decreased. Different levels of moisture with surfactant (polysorbate 80) were applied to optimize the enzymes activities at 10 s of exposure time. The optimum activities 3.15 ± 0.23, 0.62 ± 0.06, 269 ± 5.36, 65 ± 1.63, and 48 ± 0.98 U/mL were recorded for cellulase, MnPase, FPase, CMCase, and laccase, respectively at 70% of moisture and 0.15 mL/L of polysorbate 80.