bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Oxidative Stress on Histological and Immunohistochemical Changes in Testes of Albino Mice
Authors:   Department of Biology, College of Education for Girls, University of Mosul, Mosul, Iraq., AlDulaimi Liqaa Hussain
Published: April 2024

Background: Fertility in male animals is an important issue in veterinary medicine. Exposure to severe crowding and fattening may affect the fertility of these animals. Objectives: This study compares the effect of oxidative stress caused by overcrowding or obesity on testicular tissue in male albino mice. Methods: A total of 30 male mice were divided into 3 groups. The first was a control group. The second group was subjected to crowding by cramming 20 mice in a small cage. The third group was fattened by eating a high-fat diet. Morphometric cells and histological measurements of the seminiferous tubule diameter, epithelium thickness, and Sertoli and Leydig cell counts were taken. Results: The crowding group testes showed the presence of necrosis and degeneration of spermatocytes, Sertoli, and Leydig cells. The obese group’s spermatocytes, Sertoli, and Leydig cells had shown severe necrosis, degeneration, and giant cell invasion. Histomorphometric measurements of seminiferous tubule diameter, epithelium-thickness, and Sertoli and Leydig cell counts revealed a considerable reduction in the obese group compared to the other groups. Furthermore, in the crowding and fattening groups, measurements of oxidative stress indicators revealed a decrease in glutathione value in the obese group compared to the control, whereas malondialdehyde rose in the overcrowded and obese groups compared to the control. The results of the immunohistochemical expressions for tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) in the testes of mice revealed weak TNF-α positive expression in the control group, moderate expression in the crowding group, and strong expression in the obesity group. Conclusion: The study suggests that both obesity and crowding can impair testicular function, with obesity having the most significant impact. More research into the mechanisms underlying these effects, as well as potential interventions to improve testicular function in obese or overcrowded animals, is required.
STRATEGIC ALLIANCES AS A SYNERGY TOOL FOR INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS
Authors:   National Technical University of Ukraine “Igor Sikorsky Kyiv Polytechnic Institute”, Lytvynenko Pavlo , Lytvynenko Natalia ,   Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv
Published: April 2024

The article investigates the role of strategic alliances in developing international business. This study aims to analyze the essence, forms, types, advantages, and disadvantages of strategic alliances, as well as to identify key success factors and potential risks associated with their formation. The research methodology includes a comprehensive literature review and a case study analysis of successful strategic alliances between leading international companies in various industries. The study results demonstrate that strategic alliances have become a powerful tool for achieving synergy and enhancing the competitiveness of companies in international markets. The article highlights the importance of careful planning, partner selection, clear goal setting, and continuous monitoring for the effective implementation of strategic alliances. The study also examines current trends in the development of strategic alliances in the context of globalization and digital transformation of business. The practical value of the study lies in providing insights and recommendations for companies considering the formation of strategic alliances to expand their global presence and achieve sustainable growth in the face of increasing competition and technological challenges. The article concludes by emphasizing the growing significance of strategic alliances as a key instrument for synergy and competitiveness in the international business environment and outlines potential directions for future research in this field. The study delves into the various motivations behind the formation of strategic alliances, such as access to new markets, sharing of risks and costs, acquisition of complementary resources and capabilities, and enhancement of innovation potential. The article also discusses the critical role of trust, communication, and cultural compatibility in the success of strategic alliances, highlighting the need for effective governance mechanisms and conflict-resolution strategies. The article also addresses the challenges and limitations of strategic alliances, such as the potential for opportunistic behaviour, loss of autonomy, and difficulties in integration and coordination, and suggests ways to mitigate these risks through proper due diligence, contractual safeguards, and ongoing relationship management.
SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT OF TERRITORIAL COMMUNITIES IN THE CONTEXT OF DECENTRALIZATION CHANGES
Authors:   Lviv Polytechnic National University, Blishchuk Kateryna
Published: April 2024

The article examines the peculiarities of the sustainable development of territorial communities in the context of decentralization changes. The relevance of the article is determined by the fact that the sustainable development of territorial communities in the context of decentralization changes means the process of creating and supporting self-sufficient communities at the local level, which are able to ensure the growth of the quality of life of the population over a long period. It was noted that this development includes economic, social and environmental development, ensuring effective management of resources and services, as well as a balanced approach to the distribution of functions and powers between central and local authorities. It is noted that the basis of such development is a territorial community, in which the constituent parts are interconnected, occupy a significant territory and spend significant resources for their own development. The purpose of the article is to study the features of sustainable development of territorial communities in the context of decentralization changes at the current stage of development of the Ukrainian state. Research methods that will be used in the process of writing the article are the method of analysis and synthesis, abstract-logical and comparison, which made it possible to present well-founded conclusions and proposals. It is summarized that in modern conditions it is important to recognize that the promising directions of the state's development are determined by the effective functioning of territorial communities in the context of ensuring their sustainable development, and the basis for this should be decentralization changes aimed at reformatting territorial relations. The practical value of the article lies in substantiating proposals for overcoming challenges in the field of sustainable development of territorial communities and proving the importance of ensuring effective interaction of all parties to sustainable development and increasing the level of responsibility of both state and local authorities in the context of implementing effective decentralization changes.
ОПТИМІЗАЦІЯ ЯКОСТІ ГОТЕЛЬНИХ ПОСЛУГ НА ПРИКЛАДІ ГОТЕЛЮ «BOSSFOR», ОДЕСА
Authors: Олійник Валентина , Дишкантюк Юлія , Власюк Карина
Published: April 2024

Готельне господарство є найбільшою складовою туристичної галузі. Готельні підприємства стикаються з проблемами підвищення ефективності управління, прибутковості бізнесу та конкурентоспроможності даного виду послуг на національному та міжнародному ринках. У статті проведений аналіз фундаментальних досліджень та наукових праць з теорії та практики готельного господарства країни, висвітлені питання сучсного стану та рекомендації щодо оптимізації надання готельних послуг на прикладі готелю «BOSSFOR». Проаналізовані основні показники сфери діяльності готелю, визначено рівень якості надання послуг. Проведені дослідження основних конкурентів готелю. Даний аналіз дав можливість виявити сильні та слабкі сторони готелю. Надати рекомендації та визначити основні заходи для вдосконаленню якості послуг, підвищення кваліфікації персоналу, що відповідає за обслуговування, розширити спектр додаткових послуг, що дозволить підвищити задоволеність клієнтів.
СУЧАСНІ МЕТОДИ ПРОСУВАННЯ ТА СТИМУЛЮВАННЯ ЗБУТУ ТУРИСТИЧНИХ ПОСЛУГ ЗА ДОПОМОГОЮ СОЦІАЛЬНИХ МЕРЕЖ
Authors: Валінкевич Наталія , Чернишова Таїсія
Published: April 2024

Актуальність дослідження полягає в розкритті потенціалу соціальних мереж як інструменту просування та стимулювання збуту туристичних продуктів, а також в розумінні того, яким чином цей вплив може бути оптимізований для досягнення максимального ефекту. Стаття спрямована на аналіз просування та стимулювання збуту туристичних продуктів через соціальні мережі, використання соціальних мереж як стратегічного інструменту в туристичній індустрії та визначення їхнього впливу на формування попиту та вибір туристичних продуктів. Було встановлено вплив соціальних мереж на сферу туризму, основні способи реклами та їх вплив на просування туристичного продукту у соціальних мережах, а також розглянуто, яким чином соціальні мережі впливають на динаміку та характер попиту в сфері туризму і їх просування. В результаті дослідження, було сформовано рекомендації, які можуть бути спрямовані на максимізацію впливу та покращення стратегій просування туристичних продуктів через соціальні мережі.
ТРАНСФОРМАЦІЯ БАНКІВСЬКИХ ПОСЛУГ В УМОВАХ ЦИФРОВІЗАЦІЇ
Authors: Береславська Олена
Published: April 2024

Метою статті є визначення та дослідження основних напрямків та ефектів трансформації банківських послуг в умовах цифровізації. У статті на основі розгляду переваг технології, що дозволяє банкам аналізувати великий масив даних (Big Date) показано, що її використання сприяє правильній побудові бізнес-моделі банку, яка передбачає розробку та реалізацію персоналізованих пропозицій для клієнтів, виходячи з їх уподобань. Висвітлено особливості застосування банками цифрових технологій в операційних процесах, зокрема можливість обслуговування клієнтів за допомогою віддалених онлайн-сервісів та надання послуг кешбек-сервісів під час придбання банківських продуктів. Встановлено, що види банківських ризиків також змінюються, до складу основних ризиків банку додається кіберризик. У підсумку визначено основні ефекти, які отримують банки та їх клієнти у процесі трансформації банківських послуг в умовах ціфровізації.
Міжнародно-правове регулювання морських перевезень та глобальна безпека : практикум для здобувачів вищої освіти галузі знань у галузях знань 08 «Право», 29 «Міжнародні відносини», за спец. – 081 «Право», 293 «Міжнародне право» [Електронне видання]
Authors:   Національний університет ", Кормич Борис Анатолійович ,   Одеська юридична академія"
Published: April 2024

Практикум містить плани, завдання та рекомендовану літературу до практичних занять та самостійної роботи, а також питання для підсумкового контролю знань і вмінь здобувачів вищої освіти. Призначений для здобувачів вищої освіти галузях знань 08 «Право» та 29 «Міжнародні відносини» за спеціальностями 081 «Право» та 293 «Міжнародне право» з метою вивчення дисципліни «Міжнародно-правове регулювання морських перевезень та глобальна безпека».
Incidência dos principais tipos polínicos em Portugal (continente e ilhas)
Authors:   Sociedade Portuguesa de Alergologia e Imunologia Clínica - SPAIC, Lisboa, Portugal, Caeiro Elsa ,   Instituto Mediterrâneo para a Agricultura, Ambiente e Desenvolvimento – MED Instituto de Investigação e Formação Avançada, Universidade de Évora, Évora, Portugal, Tavares Beatriz ,   Sociedade Portuguesa de Alergologia e Imunologia Clínica - SPAIC, Lisboa, Portugal,   Serviço de Imunoalergologia, Hospitais da Universidade de Coimbra, Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal, Morais-Almeida Mário ,   Centro de Alergia, Hospital CUF Descobertas, Lisboa, Portugal, Camacho Irene ,   Sociedade Portuguesa de Alergologia e Imunologia Clínica - SPAIC, Lisboa, Portugal,   Faculdade das Ciências da Vida, Universidade da Madeira, Funchal, Portugal
Published: April 2024

A exposição a aeroalergénios polínicos é um importante fator ambiental desencadeante de doenças alérgicas respiratórias, tais como a rinite e a asma. Estas patologias conduzem a uma redução da qualidade de vida dos doentes e a um aumento dos custos socioeconómicos por toda a Europa, incluindo em Portugal. Uma das informações mais comuns disponíveis para os doentes com polinose e seus clínicos é a concentração de grãos de pólen presentes na atmosfera dos ambientes exteriores, bioaerossóis cuja distribuição temporal se encontra contida nos calendários polínicos. Outro instrumento fundamental é o “Boletim Polínico”, instrumento que informa as previsões de grãos de pólen na atmosfera. Dada a evidência cientificamente comprovada da relação entre concentrações de pólen e sintomatologia alérgica, tais ferramentas de informação e de prevenção têm sido imprescindíveis quer para a população em geral, quer para a comunidade médica que a assiste nestas patologias. As informações aeropalinológicas divulgadas só são possíveis com a monitorização ambiental contínua que tem sido feita pela Rede Portuguesa de Aerobiologia há mais de duas décadas em Portugal. Os mapas de incidência polínica aqui apresentados, construídos com base na informação que deu origem aos calendários polínicos, mostram a incidência dos principais tipos polínicos alergizantes a que as populações de cada região do país estão expostas e constituirão um instrumento essencial na prática clínica no domínio da doença alérgica em Portugal.
Evaluating Serum Calprotectin and Serum Oncostatin M Levels as Diagnostic Markers in Crohn's Disease and Ulcerative Colitis Iraqi Patients. Research
Authors: Karwi Yahya G. , Inam S. Arif  , Shaymaa A. Abdulameer
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Introduction: Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), comprising Crohn's disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC), presents as chronic gastrointestinal inflammation. Timely diagnosis and effective monitoring are crucial for better outcomes. This study aims to explore serum calprotectin and oncostatin M as potential biomarkers for diagnosing and monitoring CD and UC. Calprotectin, released during inflammation, and oncostatin M, an immune-response cytokine, have shown promise, but their precise role in IBD remains unclear.

Methodology: Using a cross-sectional observational design, the study included 93 IBD patients on biological treatment (50 CD, 43 UC) at Baghdad Teaching Hospital. Demographic data and disease characteristics were collected via interviews, and blood samples were analyzed using specific ELISA kits for calprotectin and oncostatin M levels.

Results: The results demonstrated significantly elevated serum levels of both biomarkers in IBD patients, increasing with disease activity. Significant distinctions were observed among different disease statuses in UC and CD patients.

Conclusion: These findings suggest that serum calprotectin and oncostatin M have potential as practical and non-invasive biomarkers for diagnosing and monitoring IBD. However, further research is required to validate their clinical utility and optimize IBD management.
Enhancing AdaBoost Performance: Comparative Analysis of CPU Parallel Processing on Breast Cancer Classification
Authors: Ashqi Saeed Vaman , Zeebaree Subhi R. M.
Published: April 2024

The implementation of time-sharing across processes in a real-time way has the potential to increase the execution efficiency of multiprocessor systems like the one described above. The system is able to carry out tasks that make use of a large number of processors in an effective way as a result of this. The aim of this research is to design a system with two primary goals: to enhance accuracy and to minimise the amount of time necessary with processing. This will be accomplished by integrating the ADABoost model with the decision tree algorithm. Furthermore, the statistics unambiguously demonstrate that the accuracy remains the same regardless of whether or not the central processing unit (CPU) makes use of parallel processing, which suggests that there is no variation in parallelization. As a consequence of this, there is a direct connection between the amount of time that is spent and an increase in the amount of parallel processing that is carried out by the central processing unit pertaining to the breast cancer dataset that is being investigated. This research was carried out using Python, which was the programming language that was used for the coding technique that was carried out during the course of its execution.
DeepX-Ray: A Comparative Study of Deep Learning-Based Classification and Segmentation Techniques for Automated Detection and Diagnosis of COVID-19 from Chest X-ray Images
Authors: Arna Chakraborty  , Arnab Chakraborty  , Anisa Nowrin  , Pathak Abhijit
Published: April 2024

The relentless spread of the SARS-CoV-2 virus, causing COVID-19, has underscored the urgent need for efficient early detection and diagnosis methods to mitigate its impact. While traditional techniques like RT-PCR are valuable, they often suffer from time-consuming processes. In this study, DeepX-Ray is presented, a comprehensive investigation into deep learning-based classification and segmentation approaches for the automated detection of COVID-19 from chest X-ray images. Specifically, the authors focus on constructing a custom convolutional neural network (CNN) model to distinguish between COVID-19 and standard X-ray images and benchmark its performance against established models. For segmentation tasks, the effectiveness of various backbone architectures, including ResNet34, ResNet101, DenseNet201, and ResNet50 within the UNet model framework, is explored, with ResNet50 exhibiting superior performance. Furthermore, a novel dataset comprising 7657 images sourced from three publicly available authentic datasets is introduced, and the labelMe tool is employed by the authors to generate ground truth mask datasets for 4137 images to facilitate segmentation of infected lung areas. The authors' custom CNN model achieves an outstanding classification accuracy of 100%, while the segmentation approach attains a mean Intersection over Union (IoU) score of 96.19%. These results underscore the efficacy of the proposed model in enabling early automatic detection and diagnosis of COVID-19, particularly in resource-constrained and remote settings where establishing traditional laboratories may be impractical. This research significantly advances medical imaging techniques for combating the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Effect of Blended Learning on Students' Creative Thinking Ability: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Sisrayanti  , Ambiyar  , Wulansari Rizky Ema , Sabrina Elsa
Published: April 2024

This study aims to investigate the influence of technology-based learning, particularly blended learning, on students' creative thinking abilities. Through quantitative analysis, data comprising sample size, mean, and standard deviation extracted from Google Scholar indexed journals were examined. Employing a group contrast analysis design with a random effects model, effect sizes were corrected using JASP software. The analysis revealed a summary effect of 6.74 with a confidence interval ranging from 4.68 to 8.80, indicating a significant difference between groups utilizing blended learning and those employing conventional methods. Notably, students engaged in blended learning exhibited superior creative thinking skills compared to their counterparts. These findings underscore the pressing need to integrate blended learning methodologies to enhance the learning process effectively.
Determining the Criteria Related to the Preference of Contemporary Mosques by the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) Method within the Context of User-centered Design
Authors: Onur Beyza , Özeren Ömer
Published: April 2024

The concept of user-centered design has recently been accepted in contemporary design teachings and has created new perspectives in the design field. This article aims to evaluate the contemporary mosques built in Türkiye from a user-centered perspective. In this context, first of all, the concept of user-centered design was included and the necessity of a pluralistic environment in decision-making processes was emphasized in order to create an ideal publicity phenomenon. In the context of the conceptual framework created, contemporary mosque examples built in the 21st century were selected and presented to the preference of architect and non-architect participant groups. Decision criteria that are thought to affect the choice of participants are aesthetic value, material and workmanship, dimensions of the building, religious symbols in the building, and the brand value of the building. These factors, which may be effective in the choice of contemporary mosques, were evaluated with the Analytic Hierarchy Process method. Accordingly, it was observed that the main criteria constituting the contemporary mosque preferences of the architect group were aesthetics, the brand value of the building, material, and workmanship criteria. On the other hand, the main criterion constituting the contemporary mosque preferences of the non-architect group was the presence of religious symbols. Accordingly, it was observed that architectural profession ideologies affected and differentiated the reasons for preference. As a result, it was concluded that the ideology of the architectural profession is effective in the construction process of the contemporary built environment.
Taloudelliset tekijät avainasemassa porsaiden hännänpurennan ehkäisyssä
Authors: Väre Minna , Niemi Jarkko , Koskikallio Hilkka , Heinonen Mari , Munsterhjelm Camilla , Valros Anna
Published: April 2024

Hännänpurennalla on merkittävä vaikutus sikojen terveyteen ja hyvinvointiin ja sitä kautta tuotettavien ruhojen laatuun. Lihasikojen lisäksi myös välitysporsaille on olemassa tietyt laatukriteerit ja hännänpurennasta aiheutuneet vauriot voivat aiheuttaa porsaan ostohintaan tehtävän häntävähennyksen. Hännänpurenta vaikuttaakin tuotannon kannattavuuteen ja kilpailukykyyn paitsi lihasikaloissa, myös välikasvatuksessa. Maatilatalouden kehittämisrahaston rahoittaman hankkeen ”Ehjä häntä kertoo sian kokonaishyvinvoinnista” (EHJÄ) tavoitteena on mm. tuottaa lisää tietoa hännänpurennasta ja siihen vaikuttavista tekijöistä porsaiden terveyden ja hyvinvoinnin edistämiseksi erityisesti välikasvatusvaiheessa. Vuonna 2022 tehdyissä kymmenessä tilahaastattelussa kerättiin tietoa hännänpurennan riskitekijöistä, taloudellisista vaikutuksista sekä parhaiten motivoivista kannustimista hännänpurennan vähentämiseksi välikasvatuksessa. Lisäksi selvitettiin, miten haastatellut tuottajat ja eläintenhoitajat reagoivat hännänpurentaan välikasvatuksessa. Haastattelujen perusteella välikasvattamojen tuottajat ja eläintenhoitajat pääsääntöisesti sekä tunnistavat hännänpurennan ja sen riskitekijät, että tietävät miten ehkäistä ja hallita hännänpurentaa sikalassa. Eniten hännänpurennan riskiä lisäsivät haastateltujen mielestä muutokset olosuhteissa tai ruokinnassa sekä tilanpuute erityisesti kasvatusvaiheen loppupuolella. Äkillisiä olosuhde-muutoksia voivat aiheuttaa esim. lämpötilan vaihtelut keväällä ja syksyllä sekä ilmastoinnin ja ruokintalaitteen toimintahäiriöt. Hännänpurennan hallinnassa olennaista onkin jatkuva olosuhteiden sekä porsaiden tarkkailu. Ongelmien ilmetessä tärkeää on myös nopea reagointi esimerkiksi tarjoamalla porsaille lisää virikkeitä. Samoin purija tai purtu porsas pitää tarvittaessa eristää ja purtu porsas lääkitä. Sikalan olosuhteiden seurannassa apuna ovat erilaiset automaattiset hälytys- ja seurantajärjestelmät. Käytetyn teknologian osalta korostuvat toimintavarmuus sekä huollon ja korjausten merkitys. Kaikki haastatteluihin osallistuneet olivat erittäin tai melko motivoituneita puuttumaan hännänpurentaan omalla tilallaan. Hännänpurennan ehkäisyyn motivoivat ennen kaikkea sikojen terveys ja hyvinvointi sekä halu tuottaa laadukkaita porsaita. Sikalan olosuhteiden ja sikojen hyvinvoinnin parantaminen ovat kuitenkin riippuvaisia tilan taloudellisista resursseista. Tähän vaikuttavat sianlihantuotannon kannattavuuden lisäksi erilaiset taloudelliset kannustimet, kuten hännänpurennan ehkäisytoimenpiteistä maksettava hyvinvointikorvaus sekä ehjistä hännistä saatava parempi hinta. Nyt kerättyjen havaintojen avulla voidaan edelleen kehittää toimenpiteitä sekä kannustimia hännänpurentariskin pienentämiseksi porsaiden välikasvatusvaiheessa.
Visual Outcome of Nontraumatic Dense Vitreous Hemorrhage in Patients without Diabetes: A Single-Center Case Series
Authors: Lee Yuri , Kim Jae Suk
Published: April 2024

Purpose: Dense vitreous hemorrhage is a vision-threatening disease with varied clinical manifestations. Herein, we aimed to evaluate its causes and outcomes in patients without diabetes.Methods: A retrospective cohort including 60 eyes from 60 patients with an initial diagnosis of nontraumatic fundus-obscuring dense vitreous hemorrhages and without diabetes was recruited. The relevant medical records from January 2013 to December 2019 were reviewed and analyzed. We classified patients into the following four groups, depending on the underlying cause of dense vitreous hemorrhage: eight cases in the age-related macular degeneration group, four cases in the posterior vitreous detachment group, 20 cases in the tear group, and 28 cases in the vascular group.Results: The most common cause of dense vitreous hemorrhage was retinal vascular obstructive disease (46.7%); the age-related macular degeneration group showed the worst prognosis. The extent of best-corrected visual acuity change was significantly better in patients who underwent vitrectomy compared to those receiving conservative treatment; best-corrected visual acuity change (logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution) was 1.62 ± 0.57 in the surgical group and 1.06 ± 0.88 in the nonsurgical group (Student t-test, p = 0.007).Conclusions: Retinal vascular disease is the most common cause of vitreous hemorrhages, and surgical treatments have a better visual outcome than nonsurgical treatments.
Esportes do Norte: Repensando novas formas de jogar através do Mirimbol e Contrataque
Authors: Costa Alisson Vieira , Dias Marcela Fabiani Silva
Published: April 2024

Criados no município de Igarapé-Miri, interior do Pará, o Mirimbol e o Contrataque configuram-se como o foco desta investigação. O objetivo foi analisar os conhecimentos de alunos do ensino fundamental quanto a essas duas modalidades em Santana, no Amapá. Realizou-se o estudo com característica exploratória e descritiva, com uma amostra de 200 alunos. Na coleta de dados utilizou-se um questionário para a constatação dos conhecimentos dos estudantes quanto às modalidades pesquisadas. Constatou-se nos resultados que na realidade investigada pouco se conhece sobre estes esportes e ainda são confundidos com o conteúdo jogo. Os participantes em sua maioria desconhecem os aspectos técnicos, históricos e características específicas das duas modalidades investigadas. Conclui-se que é necessário considerar as regionalidades em estudos desta natureza porque revela as peculiaridades da realidade nacional e a contribuição destes esportes, diversificando as ofertas de conteúdos aos alunos.
ROLE UNIVERZITNÍHO VELMISTRA V MONOPOLIZACI VZDĚLÁVÁNÍ ZA PRVNÍHO CÍSAŘSTVÍ (1808 – 1815)
Authors: Dudzik Michael
Published: April 2024

Císařství Napoleona Bonaparta zasáhlo všechny sféry francouzského společenského života, školství nevyjímaje. Nutnost usměrnit výchovu občanů pro potřeby státu vedla císaře v květnu 1806 k založení Císařské univerzity, jejíž dominanci ve státním vzdělávání zakotvila reforma z března 1808. Na pozici ředitele byl jmenován takzvaný velmistr, který disponoval pravomocemi v oblasti organizace vzdělávacích institucí, jmenování personálu univerzity a škol, stanovování rozpočtů či kontroly výuky ve všech stupních vzdělávání. Velmistr ze své funkce ovlivnil formování nové generace pod dohledem ústřední moci, jejíž kolaps v roce 1815 znamenal i zánik pozice, kterou posléze nahradil ministr školství.
KRÍZA V ŽELEZNIČNEJ DOPRAVNEJ SIETI NA JUŽNOM ÚZEMÍ SLOVENSKA PO ROKU 1938
Authors: Beňuš Patrik
Published: April 2024

Zmena geopolitickej situácie v stredoeurópskom priestore, ktorá vyvrcholila jesennými udalosťami v roku 1938 výrazne ovplyvnila stav železničnej dopravy na južnom území Slovenska. Kritická situácia spôsobila vážne dopady v oblasti hospodárstva, keďže väčšina strategických regiónov nachádzajúcich sa na predmetnom území sa ocitla bez priameho dopravného spojenia. Príspevok skúma poarbitrážnu situáciu v železničnej doprave na južnom území Slovenska a zároveň aj vplyv hospodársko-politickej moci pri konsolidácii železničnej dopravy v prvých rokoch existencie Slovenskej republiky (1939 – 1945).
Predictors, clinical impact, and management strategies for conduction abnormalities after transcatheter aortic valve replacement: an updated review
Authors: Yu Qingyun , Fu Qingan , Xia Yunlei , Wu Yanqing
Published: April 2024

Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) has increasingly become a safe, feasible, and widely accepted alternative surgical treatment for patients with severe symptomatic aortic stenosis. However, the incidence of conduction abnormalities associated with TAVR, including left bundle branch block (LBBB) and high-degree atrioventricular block (HAVB), remains high and is often correlated with risk factors such as the severity of valvular calcification, preexisting conditions in patients, and procedural factors. The existing research results on the impact of post-TAVR conduction abnormalities and permanent pacemaker (PPM) requirements on prognosis, including all-cause mortality and rehospitalization, remain contradictory, with varied management strategies for post-TAVR conduction system diseases across different institutions. This review integrates the latest research in the field, offering a comprehensive discussion of the mechanisms, risk factors, consequences, and management of post-TAVR conduction abnormalities. This study provides insights into optimizing patient prognosis and explores the potential of novel strategies, such as conduction system pacing, to minimize the risk of adverse clinical outcomes.
Day-ahead optimization of integrated electricity and thermal system combining multiple types of demand response strategies and situation awareness technology
Authors: Sun Shumin , Cheng Yan , Xing Jiawei , Yu Peng , Wang Yuejiao
Published: April 2024

Under the dual pressure of energy shortage and environmental pollution, relying only on increasing the installed capacity of units and line transmission capacity cannot cope with the conflict between the growth of power demand and the difficulty of grid expansion in the long run. Demand response conducts users to change their energy consumption habits through system-issued electricity prices or incentives, so that the demand of the load side can be adjusted flexibly, which can further enhance the consumption of wind power and improve system economics. Based on the background of diversified energy use, this paper proposes a day-ahead optimal scheduling strategy for integrated electricity and thermal system considering multiple types of demand response. Firstly, the dispatch framework of integrated electricity and thermal system with the situation awareness technology is constructed to address uncertainties of Renewable Energy Sources, thus helping system mitigate uncertain risks. Secondly, the demand response mechanism of power system and regional thermal inertia of thermal system are modeled, respectively, to uncover the principles of load regulation of different energy systems; Then, a day-ahead optimal scheduling model for the integrated thermal and electricity system is developed, and the consumption evaluation index is integrated to indicate energy utilization efficiency; Finally, a combined electric-heat system model with 39-node grid and 6-node heat network is developed, and the positive effects of considering multiple types of demand response and situation awareness technology on promoting the consumption of renewable energy and improving the energy efficiency of the system are verified through the case study.
Unraveling the ecotoxicological effects of micro and nano-plastics on aquatic organisms and human health
Authors: Naz Saima , Chatha Ahmad Manan Mustafa , Khan Nisar Ahmed , Ullah Qudrat , Zaman Faisal , Qadeer Abdul , Khan Ibrar Muhammad , Danabas Durali , Kiran Azka , Skalickova Sylvie , Bernatova Silvie , Khan Muhammad Zahoor , Horky Pavel
Published: April 2024

Plastic pollution ranks among the most severe environmental disasters caused by humans, generating millions of tonnes of waste annually. The extensive and unregulated use of plastics has led to ecotoxicity and environmental imbalance. Microplastics (MPs) are prevalent in aquatic environments, and these MPs further degrade into even smaller particles known as nano-plastics (NPs). Both MPs and NPs impact the environment by readily absorbing organic pollutants and pathogens from their surroundings, owing to their bigger surface area to volume ratio. This review focuses on the source of origin, bioaccumulation, and potential impact of MPs and NPs on aquatic organisms and human health. Additionally, the review explores various methods employed for identification and quantification of these particles in aquatic ecosystems. Sufficient information is available on their characteristics, distributions, and effects on marine ecosystems compared with freshwater ecosystems. For plastic particles <10 μm, more toxicological effects were observed compared with larger size particles, in aquatic life. Understanding the mechanism of action and ecotoxicological effects of micro/nano-plastics on the health of aquatic life across various trophic levels, as well as human health, is of utmost importance. We address knowledge gaps and provide insights into future research approaches for a better understanding of the interactive mechanisms between binary pollutants.
Prediction of the potential distribution area of Glycyrrhiza inflata in China using a MaxEnt model
Authors: Du Zhen-zhu , Xu Wen-bin , Wang Yu-xia , Yan Ping , Ma Zhan-cang , Huang Gang , Li Hong-bin
Published: April 2024

Glycyrrhiza inflata Batalin is an important medical plant of the genus Glycyrrhiza. It is one of the key protected plants in China, distributed in the desert areas of southern Xinjiang and Dunhuang of Gansu Province. It has a strong resistance to drought, heat, and salt stresses, and plays a pivotal role in sand fixtion in desert areas. In this study, based on 157 valid distribution records and eight environmental factors including climate factors and altitude, the potential distribution area of G. inflata in the last glacial maximum, middle Holocen, modern, and future (2050) times in China were predicted, using the optimized MaxEnt model and ArcGis 10.2 software. The results showed that the predicted distribution area was highly consistent with the current distribution range, and the area under the receiver operating characteristic (AUC) curve was 0.986, indicating that the prediction performance was excellent. The key climatic factors affecting the distribution were precipitation in December and the average annual precipitation. Meanwhile, the suitable area of G. inflata in modern times was 1,831,026 km2, mainly distributed in Turpan-Hami Basin, Tarim Basin, and Dunhuang of Gansu Province, with Lop Nur Town of Xinjiang as the distribution center. In 2050, the potential suitable area forG. inflata in China will be 1,808,090 km2, 250,970 km2 of which will be highly suitable, which is 150,600 km2 smaller than that in modern times, with a reduction rate of 60.0%. Therefore, there is a trend of great reduction in the suitable area of G. inflata. From the last glaciation maximum to the middle Holocene, the geographical distribution center shifted to the southwest margin of the Kumtag Desert, Xinjiang, then later continued to shift to the southwest. This study will provide a basis for understanding the origin and evolution of G. inflata, developing conservation strategies to minimize the impacts of environment change, and utilizing plant resource.
Exploring the immunological landscape of osteomyelitis through mendelian randomization analysis
Authors: Long Kehan , Gong Ao , Yu Dou , Dong Sumiao , Ying Zhendong , Zhang Lei
Published: April 2024

Background:

Osteomyelitis is a severe bone marrow infection, whose pathogenesis is not yet fully understood. This study aims to explore the causal relationship between immune cell characteristics and osteomyelitis, hoping to provide new insights for the prevention and treatment of osteomyelitis.

Methods:

Based on two independent samples, this study employed a two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis to assess the causal relationship between 731 immune cell characteristics (divided into seven groups) and osteomyelitis. Genetic variants were used as proxies for risk factors to ensure that the selected instrumental variables meet the three key assumptions of MR analysis. Genome-Wide Association Studies (GWAS) data for immune characteristics were obtained from the public GWAS catalog, while data for osteomyelitis was sourced from the FinnGen.

Results:

At a significance level of 0.05, 21 immune phenotypes were identified as having a causal relationship with osteomyelitis development. In the B cell group, phenotypes such as Memory B cell % B cell (percentage of memory B cells within the total B cell population, % finger cell ratio), CD20− %B cell (percentage of B cells that do not express the CD20 marker on their surface), and Memory B cell % lymphocyte showed a positive causal relationship with osteomyelitis, while Naive-mature B cell %B cell and IgD-CD38-absolute cell counts (AC) phenotypes showed a negative causal relationship. In addition, specific immune phenotypes in the conventional dendritic cells (cDCs) group, Myeloid cell group, TBNK (T cells, B cells, natural killer cells) cell group, T cell maturation stage, and Treg cell group also showed significant associations with osteomyelitis. Through reverse MR analysis, it was found that osteomyelitis had no significant causal impact on these immune phenotypes, suggesting that the occurrence of osteomyelitis may not affect these immune cell phenotypes.

Conclusion:

To our knowledge, this is the first study to shed light on the causal relationship between specific immune cell characteristics and the development of osteomyelitis, thereby providing a new perspective to understand the immune mechanism of osteomyelitis. These findings are significant for formulating targeted prevention and treatment strategies, and hold promise to improve the treatment outcomes for patients with osteomyelitis.
Effect of high-dose Spirulina supplementation on hospitalized adults with COVID-19: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Aghasadeghi Mohammad Reza , Zaheri Birgani Mohammad Ali , Jamalimoghadamsiyahkali Saeedreza , Hosamirudsari Hadiseh , Moradi Ali , Jafari-Sabet Majid , Sadigh Nooshin , Rahimi Pooneh , Tavakoli Rezvan , Hamidi-Fard Mojtaba , Bahramali Golnaz , Parmoon Zohal , Arjmand Hashjin Sina , Mirzajani Ghasem , Kouhkheil Reza , Roshangaran Somayeh , Khalaf Samineh , Khademi Nadoushan Mohammad , Gholamiyan Yousef Abad Ghazaleh , Shahryarpour Nima , Izadi Mohammad , Zendedel Abolfazl , Jahanfar Shayesteh , Dadras Omid , SeyedAlinaghi SeyedAhmad , Hackett Daniel
Published: April 2024

Objective

Spirulina (arthrospira platensis) is a cyanobacterium proven to have anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and antioxidant effects. However, the effect of high-dose Spirulina supplementation on hospitalized adults with COVID-19 is currently unclear. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of high-dose Spirulina platensis for SARS-CoV-2 infection.

Study Design

We conducted a randomized, controlled, open-label trial involving 189 patients with COVID-19 who were randomly assigned in a 1:1 ratio to an experimental group that received 15.2g of Spirulina supplement plus standard treatment (44 non-intensive care unit (non-ICU) and 47 ICU), or to a control group that received standard treatment alone (46 non-ICU and 52 ICU). The study was conducted over six days. Immune mediators were monitored on days 1, 3, 5, and 7. The primary outcome of this study was mortality or hospital discharge within seven days, while the overall discharge or mortality was considered the secondary outcome.

Results

Within seven days, there were no deaths in the Spirulina group, while 15 deaths (15.3%) occurred in the control group. Moreover, within seven days, there was a greater number of patients discharged in the Spirulina group (97.7%) in non-ICU compared to the control group (39.1%) (HR, 6.52; 95% CI, 3.50 to 12.17). Overall mortality was higher in the control group (8.7% non-ICU, 28.8% ICU) compared to the Spirulina group (non-ICU HR, 0.13; 95% CI, 0.02 to 0.97; ICU, HR, 0.16; 95% CI, 0.05 to 0.48). In non-ICU, patients who received Spirulina showed a significant reduction in the levels of IL-6, TNF-α, IL-10, and IP-10 as intervention time increased. Furthermore, in ICU, patients who received Spirulina showed a significant decrease in the levels of MIP-1α and IL-6. IFN-γ levels were significantly higher in the intervention group in both ICU and non-ICU subgroups as intervention time increased. No side effects related to Spirulina supplements were observed during the trial.

Conclusion

High-dose Spirulina supplements coupled with the standard treatment of COVID-19 may improve recovery and remarkably reduce mortality in hospitalized patients with COVID-19.

Clinical Trial Registration

https://irct.ir/trial/54375, Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials number (IRCT20210216050373N1)
Macrophages: plastic participants in the diagnosis and treatment of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Lin Chen , Chu Yidian , Zheng Ye , Gu Shanshan , Hu Yanghao , He Jiali , Shen Zhisen
Published: April 2024

Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) rank among the most prevalent types of head and neck cancer globally. Unfortunately, a significant number of patients receive their diagnoses at advanced stages, limiting the effectiveness of available treatments. The tumor microenvironment (TME) is a pivotal player in HNSCC development, with macrophages holding a central role. Macrophages demonstrate diverse functions within the TME, both inhibiting and facilitating cancer progression. M1 macrophages are characterized by their phagocytic and immune activities, while M2 macrophages tend to promote inflammation and immunosuppression. Striking a balance between these different polarization states is essential for maintaining overall health, yet in the context of tumors, M2 macrophages typically prevail. Recent efforts have been directed at controlling the polarization states of macrophages, paving the way for novel approaches to cancer treatment. Various drugs and immunotherapies, including innovative treatments based on macrophages like engineering macrophages and CAR-M cell therapy, have been developed. This article provides an overview of the roles played by macrophages in HNSCC, explores potential therapeutic targets and strategies, and presents fresh perspectives on the future of HNSCC treatment.
Lung-specific interleukin 6 mediated transglutaminase 2 activation and cardiopulmonary fibrogenesis
Authors: Penumatsa Krishna C. , Sharma Yamini , Warburton Rod R. , Singhal Adit , Toksoz Deniz , Bhedi Chinmayee D. , Qi Guanming , Preston Ioana R. , Anderlind Christina , Hill Nicholas S. , Fanburg Barry L.
Published: April 2024

Pulmonary hypertension (PH) pathogenesis is driven by inflammatory and metabolic derangements as well as glycolytic reprogramming. Induction of both interleukin 6 (IL6) and transglutaminase 2 (TG2) expression participates in human and experimental cardiovascular diseases. However, little is known about the role of TG2 in these pathologic processes. The current study aimed to investigate the molecular interactions between TG2 and IL6 in mediation of tissue remodeling in PH. A lung-specific IL6 over-expressing transgenic mouse strain showed elevated right ventricular (RV) systolic pressure as well as increased wet and dry tissue weights and tissue fibrosis in both lungs and RVs compared to age-matched wild-type littermates. In addition, IL6 over-expression induced the glycolytic and fibrogenic markers, hypoxia-inducible factor 1α, pyruvate kinase M2 (PKM2), and TG2. Consistent with these findings, IL6 induced the expression of both glycolytic and pro-fibrogenic markers in cultured lung fibroblasts. IL6 also induced TG2 activation and the accumulation of TG2 in the extracellular matrix. Pharmacologic inhibition of the glycolytic enzyme, PKM2 significantly attenuated IL6-induced TG2 activity and fibrogenesis. Thus, we conclude that IL6-induced TG2 activity and cardiopulmonary remodeling associated with tissue fibrosis are under regulatory control of the glycolytic enzyme, PKM2.
Phenotypic comparison and the potential antitumor function of immortalized bone marrow-derived macrophages (iBMDMs)
Authors: Xie Dong-kun , Yao Jin , Li Peng-hui , Zhu Yan-wen , Chen Jia-nuo , Cao Xiu-li , Cheng Shi-lin , Chen Ya-miao , Huang Yi-fei , Wang Liang , Wang Zan-han , Qiao Rong , Ge Jia-mei , Yue Huan , Wei Li , Liu Zhong-yuan , Han Hua , Qin Hong-yan , Zhao Jun-long
Published: April 2024

Introduction

Macrophages are an important component of innate immunity and involved in the immune regulation of multiple diseases. The functional diversity and plasticity make macrophages to exhibit different polarization phenotypes after different stimuli. During tumor progression, the M2-like polarized tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) promote tumor progression by assisting immune escape, facilitating tumor cell metastasis, and switching tumor angiogenesis. Our previous studies demonstrated that functional remodeling of TAMs through engineered-modifying or gene-editing provides the potential immunotherapy for tumor. However, lack of proliferation capacity and maintained immune memory of infused macrophages restricts the application of macrophage-based therapeutic strategies in the repressive tumor immune microenvironment (TIME). Although J2 retrovirus infection enabled immortalization of bone marrow-derived macrophages (iBMDMs) and facilitated the mechanisms exploration and application, little is known about the phenotypic and functional differences among multi kinds of macrophages.

Methods

HE staining was used to detect the biosafety of iBMDMs, and real-time quantitative PCR, immunofluorescence staining, and ELISA were used to detect the polarization response and expression of chemokines in iBMDMs. Flow cytometry, scratch assay, real-time quantitative PCR, and crystal violet staining were used to analyze its phagocytic function, as well as its impact on tumor cell migration, proliferation, and apoptosis. Not only that, the inhibitory effect of iBMDMs on tumor growth was detected through subcutaneous tumor loading, while the tumor tissue was paraffin sectioned and flow cytometry was used to detect its impact on the tumor microenvironment.

Results

In this study, we demonstrated iBMDMs exhibited the features of rapid proliferation and long-term survival. We also compared iBMDMs with RAW264.7 cell line and mouse primary BMDMs with in vitro and in vivo experiments, indicating that the iBMDMs could undergo the same polarization response as normal macrophages with no obvious cellular morphology changes after polarization. What’s more, iBMDMs owned stronger phagocytosis and pro-apoptosis functions on tumor cells. In addition, M1-polarized iBMDMs could maintain the anti-tumor phenotypes and domesticated the recruited macrophages of receptor mice, which further improved the TIME and repressed tumor growth.

Discussion

iBMDMs can serve as a good object for the function and mechanism study of macrophages and the optional source of macrophage immunotherapy.