bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Historical Detective Story and History as a Detective Story: to the Question of Cross-genre Synthesis
Authors: Kolesnyk Olena
Published: June 2023

The article presents an analysis of the popular historical / retro detective genre, considered in terms of semantic fields shared with other literary genres, which for their synthesis. In particular, the motive of the activity of the past in the present and the future, present in almost all literary forms, is of a formative significance in the detective story. The plot is built on a retrospective reconstruction of events leading to a particular situation, typically a crime. This motive is crucial for historical and quasi-historical genres such as alternative history and cryptohistory, in which similar “detective” work on the reproduction of real or hypothetical events, their origins and results is carried out by the author himself and to some extent by the recipient. Such artistic research holds a significant place in the “investigation novel” genre, allowing the author to present his/her own scientifically based version of ambiguous historical material.The motive of understanding the true causes and nature of events is also present in the psychological novel, where the focus is shifted from the “external” mystery of the situation to the secrets of the depths of the human psyche. The fundamental principles of the detective genre reach considerable archetypal depth, based on such mythological and philosophical themes as the essence of time and the cause-and-effect relationships of events, the meaning of being and the essence of repentance. All this creates significant opportunities for philosophy, including historiosophical artistic research, allowing a complex synthesis of genres (most often: detective story – history – science fiction and fantasy), with extensive use of the achievements of psychological and social literature. All these forms of the artistic interpretation of the “past-in-the-future” are very relevant to the culture that is seeking new understanding of its own past and the history of international relations. It explains the relative popularity of the historical and retro-detective in contemporary Ukrainian literature.For Ukrainian authors, the second half of the 19th and the first half of the 20th centuries remains the most attractive period. The strongest points of their novels are a significant amount of historical and local history information, as well as efforts to understand (and rethink) the imperial heritage in its various forms; after all, it is not only about the Russian but also about the Austro-Hungarian empire.
The Truth of History in the Graffiti on the Fresco of St. Sophia of Kyiv: a New Reading of the Most Ancient Inscriptions
Authors: Nikitenko Nadiia
Published: June 2023

The article, in the context of the author’s proposal of new dating of St. Sophia of Kyiv to the years of 1011–1018, focuses on the conceptual problem of the apogee of the development of ancient Rus-Ukraine. It is argued that this historical phenomenon is characteristic of the era of Volodymyr the Great, rather than Yaroslav the Wise, which was only a “weakened copy” of his father’s reign. To support this argument, the article analyzes the oldest Sophia graffiti from 1015 and 1019. A new reading of these graffiti using the method of a complex causal approach has made it possible to more clearly understand and objectively perceive the specific historical situation, which was falsified in the annals, and to bring it to life. In the altar part of the cathedral, the graffiti, previously considered to be the inscriptions of Volodymyr (Vasyliy) Monomakh and his contemporary Metropolitan Nikephoros and dated to the beginning of the 12th century, have been re-attributed. The author argues that these graffiti are 100 years older and are the autographs of Volodymyr (Vasyliy) the Great and his contemporary, the Byzantine general Archon Nikephoros Xiphias, created in 1014–1015 to commemorate the Belasytsia victory of Basil II with the help of Volodymyr’s troops in Bulgaria. This is the oldest authentic evidence of the existence of Sophia of Kyiv at that time as an already-built and frescoed temple that Volodymyr aimed to complete before his death. The existence of Sophia in the second decade of the 11th century is also confirmed by the author’s previously attributed graffiti of the “Olisava group” of 1019. These were preserved in the princely choirs of the cathedral, which belonged to Princess Olisava, the mother of Sviatopolk I, and his entourage, as well as the Metropolitan of Kyiv Ioann I. The graffiti left by the soldiers of the Novgorod official Kosniatyn Dobrynych on the walls of the cathedral’s open galleries also date back to the same year. The graffiti of 1019 record the end of the princely feud of 1015–1019 and the arrival of Yaroslav from Novgorod to power in Kyiv. Therefore, all the avalyzed graffiti are reliable epigraphic documents that testify to the emergence of Sophia of Kyiv in 1011–1015 and shed light on the course of historical events and the formation of national culture.
La pandemia y las redes de ciudades: el caso de Mercociudades y la presidencia de Tandil, 2020-2021
Authors: Oddone Nahuel , Calvento Mariana , Alvaredo Nahuel Fernando , Domínguez González Celeste Karen
Published: June 2023

En los últimos años se han observado nume­rosos cambios a escala internacional que han puesto en crisis las nociones y narrativas que se consideraban sólidas (y por momentos ina­movibles) para entender las relaciones interna­cionales. A partir de dinámicas que surgieron desde los espacios locales, se ha buscado com­prender y dar una respuesta a estos fenómenos. Entre ellas, se destaca la denominada “diplo­macia” de las ciudades, concepto que también se conoce como paradiplomacia. En 2020, resultó paradigmática la pandemia de covid-19 que impactó internacionalmente en todos los niveles, desafiando el multilateralismo, los Es­tados nacionales, las propuestas surgidas desde los gobiernos locales y sus redes. El presente artículo analiza la red Mercociudades, espacio que congrega a más de 300 gobiernos locales de Sudamérica, para comprender sus principa­les desafíos y respuestas durante la pandemia.
Tecnocracia urbana e influencias del Banco Mundial y el Banco Interamericano de Desarrollo en las políticas urbanas de Chile, 1961-2020
Authors: Paulsen Espinoza Álex Patricio
Published: June 2023

Las decisiones que toman los habitantes de una ciudad en torno a sus diferentes asuntos urba­nos deberían corresponder a procesos de parti­cipación enmarcados en la autodeterminación y autonomía de cualquier país. Sin embargo, en América Latina, y en particular en Chile, las decisiones no necesariamente provienen de los ciudadanos ni de quienes son los encarga­dos de elaborarlas. El objetivo de la presente investigación es analizar las influencias en las políticas urbanas de Chile que han llevado a cabo organismos supranacionales como el Banco Mundial y el Banco Interamericano de Desarrollo por medio de tecnócratas urbanos. Bajo una metodología documental, esta in­vestigación utilizó fuentes públicas y privadas para construir diferentes análisis. La evidencia muestra algunas luces acerca de cómo operan estas relaciones internacionales a escala urba­na y cómo los agentes establecen redes, una infraestructura y materiales tecnocráticos que conforman una geografía de la expertocracia. Las conclusiones permiten avizorar de manera inicial formas productivas de identificar este tipo de aspectos que integran a ciudades en circuitos de conocimientos y políticas pro­venientes de otras latitudes, y que interfieren no solo en las decisiones a escala urbana, sino también en las relaciones internacionales, los procesos democráticos de las ciudades y sus habitantes.
STJ E AS SEMENTES TRANSGÊNICAS
Authors: Rocha Eduardo Gonçalves
Published: June 2023

No segundo semestre de 2019, o Superior Tribunal de Justiça (STJ) tomou uma importante decisão sobre a extensão dos direitos proprietários a respeito da vida: estabeleceu que as sementes transgênicas são patenteáveis, sendo legal a cobrança de royalties sobre elas. O julgamento foi resultado de uma disputa entre a Monsanto e produtores rurais do Rio Grande do Sul. O objetivo do artigo é analisar esse julgado, examinando seus fundamentos jurídicos, suas contradições e seus efeitos. O problema é: a decisão do STJ respeitou a Constituição de 1988 e o sistema jurídico dela decorrente? Como referencial teórico, parte-se das constatações de Juliana Santilli, Jack Kloppenburg e Pat Mooney. Metodologicamente, é feita uma contextualização acerca do que são as sementes crioulas, bem como sobre os riscos que o atual sistema nacional e internacional de propriedade intelectual impõe ao direito fundamental à biodiversidade. Por último, analisam-se os principais argumentos da decisão do STJ e o precedente por ela firmado. Conclui-se, por fim, que a decisão do STJ contrariou a Constituição de 1988, o sistema infralegal brasileiro e deu um importante passo para a privatização da vida.
УПРАВЛІННЯ ВИТРАТАМИ ЗАЛІЗНИЧНОГО ТРАНСПОРТУ В УМОВАХ ЦИФРОВІЗАЦІЇ ЕКОНОМІКИ
Authors: Кірдіна О. Г. , Третяк З. І. , Чечоткіна І. Ю.
Published: June 2023

У статті досліджено сучасний стан залізничного транспорту і виявлено погіршення фінансово-економічного становища підприємств галузі. З’ясовано, що для підприємств залізничного транспорту характерна низька ефективність системи управління витратами, неналежна дієвість та прозорість механізмів їх контролю та моніторингу. Вказано, що на сучасному етапі слід забезпечити цифровізацію інформаційних потоків при управлінні витратами з метою формування ефективної інформаційної системи управління витратами залізничного транспорту. Встановлено, що більшість завдань при управлінні витратами на залізничному транспорті вирішуються за рахунок рутинної роботи співробітників підприємств з використанням різного незалежного програмного забезпечення. Це пов’язано з різноманітністю таких завдань, недостатнім впровадженням систем, що дозволяють автоматизувати їх виконання, неповнотою вихідних даних для роботи таких систем, а також неповною інтегрованістю існуючого програмного забезпечення між собою. Доведено доцільність використання цифрових рішень у сфері управління витратами залізничного транспорту, що сприятиме істотному скороченню витрат на управління ланцюжком транспортно-логістичного обслуговування.
ШЛЯХИ ЗАБЕЗПЕЧЕННЯ КОНКУРЕНТОСПРОМОЖНОСТІ ПІДПРИЄМСТВ ЕНЕРГЕТИЧНОЇ ГАЛУЗІ УКРАЇНИ У КРИЗОВИЙ ПЕРІОД
Authors: Дикань В. В. , Ангеліс Є. О.
Published: June 2023

Стаття присвячена проблемі забезпечення конкурентних переваг підприємства енергетичної галузі (Групи ДТЕК) під час затяжних кризових явищ. Проаналізовано  сучасний стан компаній  енергетичного сектору економіки України, роль підприємств Групи ДТЕК на вітчизняному  енергетичному ринку; виявлено негативні наслідки впливу економічних та політичних подій на результати діяльності компанії ДТЕК. Запропоновано шляхи підвищення конкурентоспроможності для Групи ДТЕК.
ПІДХОДИ ЩОДО ВИМІРЮВАННЯ ПОКАЗНИКІВ ОЦІНКИ ЛОГІСТИЧНОГО СЕРВІСУ В ЛАНЦЮГАХ ПОСТАЧАНЬ
Authors: Загурський O. M.
Published: June 2023

В статті проведено огляд основних теоретичних підходів, щодо клієнтоорієнтованого логістичного обслуговування та формування мінімально необхідних показників «базового» рівня оцінки логістичного сервісу. Запропоновано комплекс показників для оцінки логістичного сервісу клієнтів в ланцюзі постачань, що складається з 10 груп кожна з яких охоплює один аспект обслуговування клієнтів, що має бути оцінений та проаналізований  компанією.
ФОРМУВАННЯ КОНКУРЕНТНИХ ПЕРЕВАГ УКРАЇНСЬКИХ ПІДПРИЄМСТВ В УМОВАХ ЕКОНОМІЧНОЇ КРИЗИ СПРИЧИНЕНОЇ ВОЄННИМ ЧАСОМ
Authors: Каличева Н. Є. , Островерх Г. Є. , Орехов М. В.
Published: June 2023

Конкурентна перевага є мінливою, її важко отримати і ще важче підтримувати та зміцнювати за допомогою споживачів, які через свою індивідуальну поляризацію вибору підтверджують визнання результатів діяльності та присуджують конкурентні переваги, обумовлюючи таким чином конкурентний рейтинг компаній, присутніх на ринку. Аналіз показав, що підприємства не  приділяютьдостатньої уваги оцінці своїх конкурентних переваг. В статті запропоновано основні типи компромісів для створення конкурентних стратегій для українських підприємств. Крім того, на підставі проведеного дослідження, вище керівництво зможе обирати оптимальну стратегію поведінки в конкурентному середовищі. Ці пропозиції стануть корисними для топ-менеджерів і дирекції фірм для формування конкурентних переваг, що є одним із вирішальних чинників успішного розвитку підприємства у сучасних умовах.
Compact Thermal Energy Storage
Authors: van Helden Wim
Published: June 2023

This position paper provides an overview of the compact thermal energy storage technologies market, outlining its importance, potential, and development. It addresses policy, decision makers, and influencers and aims to present high-level information as a basis for uptake and further development. It concludes by highlighting actions needed to further exploit thermal energy storages with minimal space requirements and accelerate more efficient energy systems, including sector coupling, with a higher share of renewables.
Impact of COVID-19 on the Daily Returns of Istanbul Stock Exchange
Authors: Zengin Burcu , Kocoglu Sahnaz
Published: June 2023

The purpose of the article/hypothesis: The measures taken by the governments to fight Covid-19 such as social distancing and lockdowns not only crippled the social life, but also the economies of their countries. The purpose of this paper is to analyze the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on the Turkish economy. The authors used the Istanbul Stock Exchange Index which is a sort of barometer to measure the health of the economic and financial system in Turkey. The aim of the paper is to show the impact of Covid-19 together with the risk in the global market, exchange rates and government responses to the pandemic on the Istanbul Stock Exchange.

Methodology: The authors analyzed the impact of the pandemic studying the relations between the Istanbul Exchange and a number of deaths due to Covid-19 together with VIX index, the Government Response Index and exchange rate of USA dollar/Turkish Lira with Toda-Yamamoto Causality test.

Results of the research: The results suggest that the number of deaths due to Covid-19 and exchange rates cause the loss in value in the Istanbul Stock Exchange while VIX index and the Government Response Index are found to be ineffective in explaining the volatility in the ISE.
Analysis of the degradation of highefficiency encapsulated PM6:Y7based Photovoltaic Cells
Authors: Patrycja  Królak  , Magaly  Ramírez-Como  , Lluis F.  Marsal-Garví  , Josep  Pallarès-Marzal
Published: June 2023

In this work, we report a degradation study of high-efficiency conventional polymer solar cells (PSCs). The high performance of the PM6:Y7-based device is achieved with a power conversion efficiency (PCE) of up to 15.64% in the first measurement. The article describes the results of the measurements and analysis of the degradation process. The electrical parameters during the degradation process were extracted from the current density – voltage characteristics curves (J–V) under light and dark conditions. Were observed the specific parameters of the selected cells: open-circuit voltage (VOC), short circuit current density (JSC), fill factor (FF), PCE, series (RS), and shunt (RSH) resistance values The PCE of the device decreased down to 64% of the initial PCE after 1056 h.
Demographic Development and Social-Demographic Policy in Zambia
Authors: Bvalia Chanda , Khramova Marina
Published: June 2023

The purpose of the study was to identify trends in demographic development and features of the socio-demographic policy of the Republic of Zambia in the context of the demographic transition. The main research method is the statistical analysis of the demographic data of the current registration and population censuses of the Republic. The sources of information are demographic statistics and demographic surveys presented in the materials of national agencies and international organizations of the UN system. Zambia is on the path of the demographic transition, but so far remains one of the youngest countries in the world in terms of the average age of the population. The annual population growth rate remains significant at the level of 2.5-3%. The country maintains a high birth rate. As a large cohort of young people enter their reproductive years, the population of the Republic is expected to double in the next 25 years. The demographic situation may exacerbate some socio-economic problems, including an increase in demand for jobs, a shortage of medical care and social services. In this situation, the state socio-demographic policy of Zambia, although focused on the UN Sustainable Development Goals until 2030, has not yet fully responded to demographic changes. By 2030, the authorities of the Republic of Zambia have set the achievement of a prosperous nation with an average income as the goal of the country’s development by 2030. In this context, the health of the workforce remains an important component. It is considered that a healthy workforce will allow the country to increase productivity and gain a significant demographic dividend.
Adaptive Migration Policy under the Digital Economy (Based on the Materials of the Russian-Chinese Round Table)
Authors: Popova Svetlana , Khramova Marina , Zhan Zhang
Published: June 2023

On April 18, 2023, the Institute for Demographic Research of the Federal Scientific Research Center of the Russian Academy of Sciences and the University of MSU-BIT in Shenzhen (Shenzhen, China), with the support of Sun Yat-sen University (Guangzhou, China), held the International Round Table "Adaptive Migration Policy in the Digital Economy".
EAEU Integration Processes in Conditions of Sanctions: Socio-Economic and Demographic Aspects
Authors: Dolzhenkova Ekaterina , Mokhorova Anna
Published: June 2023

During the period of turbulence at the political level, special attention is paid to the economic component of regional cooperation between states. The economic cooperation of the EAEU member states, as well as their foreign trade relations over the past few years, has been influenced by sanctions pressure, through which there have been changes in the composition of the main external partners. The purpose of the article is to identify the tools that made it possible to level the sanctions pressure at the early stages, as well as to find solutions that will be relevant in the future for the entire region. The object of the research is the foreign economic indicators of the EAEU member countries, the subject of the research is the foreign economic relations between the main economic partners, both within the union and between the participating countries and third-party partners. For the EAEU member countries, such an external partner today is the People's Republic of China, which accounts for the bulk of import and export operations of Russia, Kazakhstan, and Belarus. Applying a regional approach, as well as statistical data on import-export operations for the past period of 2021–2022, a decrease in the external economic indicators of individual EAEU member countries is revealed. To improve the economic performance of all members of the union, it is proposed to develop a common political and economic program, develop, and implement a regulatory framework in relation to relations with major external partners.
Les forêts et les industries forestières au Mexique
Authors: Allouard P.
Published: June 2023

Le Mexique possède une flore très variée. Ainsi, on trouve un grand nombre d'espèces de résineux sur les hautes terres tropicales ; les forêts de pins couvrent plusieurs millions d'hectares ; dans les régions tropicales de basse altitude, l'acajou et le Cedrela odorata sont les principales espèces recherchées.
Les forêts sont souvent épuisées à la périphérie des zones habitées. Cependant, les autorités forestières, qui disposent désormais d'un personnel technique plus adéquat, s'efforcent de les reboiser. Le gouvernement cherche également à promouvoir l'utilisation rationnelle des ressources forestières par le biais d'"Unités Intégrées", composées de plusieurs entreprises, qui valorisent le bois et les déchets et replantent les forêts dès qu'elles ont été abattues.
Aumento de investigaciones en comunicación sobre vacunas en revistas WoS
Authors: Estrella-Pacheco Makarena
Published: June 2023

Introducción: La investigación sobre vacunas, su aplicación en la población y la presencia de falsas noticias hizo necesaria la elaboración de planes comunicacionales para mantener informada a la ciudadanía sobre los tratamientos contra la COVID-19. Esto hizo reaccionar a la comunidad académica, que se encargó de investigar y tratar de explicar cómo funcionan estos fenómenos. Objetivo: Analizar la reacción de las disciplinas de la comunicación sobre la inoculación en base al aumento de publicaciones y citas en revistas indexadas en Web of Science (WoS) sobre este tema. Metodología: Análisis cuantitativo del número de publicaciones y citas acerca de vacunas utilizando como base la categoría temática WoS Comunicación (Communication). Se estudiaron las cifras de los últimos 12 años y tres meses (enero de 2010 a marzo de 2022) con el fin de comparar su estado antes y después de la pandemia COVID-19. Resultados: Se comprueba que, durante 2020, 2021 y el primer trimestre de 2022 hubo un aumento exponencial del número de publicaciones y citas respecto a vacunas en revistas de comunicación. Conclusiones: La comunidad académica que publica en revistas indexadas bajo la categoría comunicación reaccionó ante la aparición de las vacunas y los fenómenos comunicacionales que ello conlleva.
La realidad virtual para la acrofobia
Authors: Valero Aguayo Luis
Published: June 2023

Introducción: La realidad virtual (RV) ya ha mostrado su eficacia en fobias a volar, agorafobia, conducir, insectos, roedores, etc., pero requiere crear los mundos virtuales adaptados al individuo. Objetivos: Evaluar la usabilidad, la satisfacción y las dificultades que tienen los consultantes con un sistema de RV asequible (VRBox y un teléfono móvil de calidad) con imágenes de 360º disponibles libremente en Internet en problemas de acrofobia. Método: Participaron 47 personas (entre 18 y 69 años), de ellas 21 mujeres (45%). Los usuarios fueron expuestos a 10 vídeos de 360 grados, en una montura VRBox que incluía un teléfono móvil. Se aplicaron diversos cuestionarios de ansiedad, fobia específica a las alturas, usabilidad y satisfacción con la experiencia y el equipo. Resultados: Las puntuaciones de usabilidad fueron elevadas (M = 73.51 sobre 100 puntos) y el grado de ansiedad baja (M = 2.50 sobre 10 puntos). No aparecieron diferencias significativas entre hombres y mujeres; los que habían tenido experiencia previa con RV la valoraban mejor; y quienes padecían de vértigos o mareos la valoraban peor y con más ansiedad. Conclusión: El sistema de RV sobre acrofobia es aceptado y bien valorado por la mayoría de los usuarios, aunque habría que adaptar el sistema tecnológico a cada persona, sobre todo si aparecen molestias al utilizarlo.
Comunicación, violencia de género y suicidio
Authors: Urra Portillo Javier
Published: June 2023

El año 2022 se cobró la vida de 49 mujeres por violencia de género, mientras que 10 hombres cometieron suicidio y 9 intentaron hacerlo en España. No se debe considerar el suicidio como algo separado de la violencia de género, ya que el agresor machista construye su mundo alrededor de la dominación traumática de la mujer a la que define como suya. Las mujeres que han sufrido violencia machista de pareja o expareja tienen cinco veces más probabilidades de tener pensamientos suicidas que aquellas que no han sufrido esta violencia. La violencia machista afecta el equilibrio emocional de las mujeres, perjudica su salud mental y es un factor precipitante de conductas suicidas. Además, muchas víctimas piensan en la muerte como la única salida ante tanto sufrimiento. En un contexto de angustia, depresión y desesperanza, se produce un suicidio inducido o provocado, como revelan las autopsias psicológicas que determinan la relación causal entre maltrato machista y autolisis. Los expertos en psicología deben explicar el proceso de colonización mental, la persuasión coercitiva y el síndrome de adaptación paradójica. También es necesario señalar mitos e ideas erróneas, como que el amor lo puede todo o que hay una obligación de control.
INTERNET OF THINGS DATA TRANSFER METHOD USING NEURAL NETWORK AUTOENCODER
Authors: Siemens Eduard , Kurdecha Vasyl , Ushakov Serhii
Published: June 2023

Background. The number of devices in the Internet of Things is constantly increasing. At the same time, the number of solutions on the market for such technologies is growing. Statistics confirm that these factors lead to an increase in data transfer volumes. This raises the number of resources spent on data transmission. The growing trend in the number of users of the Internet of Things technology leads to the emergence of the problem of a rapid increase in the data transmitted by the network.

Objective. The purpose of the paper is to improve the process of data transmission in the Internet of Things by modifying the neural network autoencoder to reduce network resources use.

Methods. Analysis of publications dedicated to Internet of things data transmission. Integration of existing data coding solutions based on a neural network autoencoder in the process of transmitting data from the Internet of things.

Results. The neural network autoencoder has been improved by using an algorithm that additionally includes an arithmetic encoder and further training a new model on the output of a full-fledged autoencoder.

Conclusions. The process of data transmission in the Internet of Things network has been modified by improving the neural network autoencoder by using the training of a smaller neural network on the initial data of the main autoencoder, which has reduced the amount of data transmitted and, accordingly, reduced the use of network resources.
Mathematical modelling of crystallization of polymer solutions
Authors: Zelensky Kyryl
Published: June 2023

The processes of homogenization and crystallization of polymer solutions in cylindrical pipes are considered, which are described by the convective-diffusion equation with respect to the solution temperature and kinetic equations with respect to homogenization and crystallization of the polymer known as the thermokinetic nonlinear boundary value problem. A numerical-analytical iterative method for solving this problem is proposed, which consists of stepwise obtaining solutions of kinetic equations with respect to homogenization and crystallization of polymer solutions depending on the solution temperature and obtaining a solution of the convective-diffusion problem with respect to melt temperature. The accuracy of the obtained solution is determined by the norm of the difference between two adjacent iterations. The value of the crystallization coefficient, which is close to unity, determines the length of the dosing zone and the transition to the next zone – the flow of homogenized polymer into the distribution head of the extruder. The results of mathematical modelling are given.
Global Pandemic and Higher Education Institutions: Building Back Better in BRICS and Beyond
Authors: Niemczyk Ewelina
Published: June 2023

The COVID-19 pandemic manifested in health and socioeconomic crises globally on many levels. At its outset, the pandemic interrupted higher education institutions (HEIs) in 185 countries, dramatically affecting the lives of millions of students and staff. The unexpected disruption also exacerbated inequalities and placed the most vulnerable members of society at even greater risk, especially in lower-income countries. Simultaneously, the pandemic underscored the importance of HEIs as intellectual leaders and experts in overcoming societal challenges. This study reviewed international scholarly literature and global surveys corresponding to the pandemic’s impact on higher education, particularly its influence on academic research activities, teaching practice, and HEIs’ response to such challenges. Findings indicate a need for HEIs to adapt to new realities, harness lessons learned, and convert challenges into opportunities. Moreover, institutional responses provide lessons of commitment and creativity that can be informative for building a better future for research and teaching among HEIs in BRICS states and beyond.
Associations of Dietary Intake and Nutrient Status with Micronutrient and Lipid Composition in Breast Milk of Donor Women
Authors: Ureta-Velasco Noelia , Montealegre-Pomar Adriana , Keller Kristin , Escuder-Vieco Diana , Fontecha Javier , Calvo María V. , Megino-Tello Javier , Serrano José C. E. , García-Lara Nadia Raquel , Pallás-Alonso Carmen R.
Published: June 2023

The influence of diet and nutritional status of milk donors on the nutritional composition of donor human milk (DHM) is unknown. The present study aimed to determine the nutritional profile of DHM and the associations of donors’ dietary intake and nutritional status with micronutrient and lipid composition in DHM. For this purpose, 113 donors completed a food frequency questionnaire, provided a 5-day weighed dietary record, and collected milk for 5 consecutive days. Nutrient determinations in donors’ erythrocytes, plasma, urine, and milk were performed. Multiple linear regressions were conducted for the evaluation of the associations. We highlight the following results: DHM docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) was positively associated with donors’ plasma DHA content and donors’ DHA intake (R2 0.45, p < 0.001). For every 1 g/day of DHA intake, the percentage of DHA in DHM increased by 0.38% (% of total fat) and the percentage of total omega-3 in DHM increased by 0.78% (R2 0.29, p < 0.001). DHM saturated fatty acids were positively associated with erythrocyte dimethyl acetals, plasma stearic acid, trans fatty acids intake, and breastfeeding duration, and negatively associated with erythrocyte margaroleic acid (R2 0.34, p < 0.01). DHM cholecalciferol was associated with plasma cholecalciferol levels and dairy intake (R2 0.57, p < 0.01). Other weaker associations were found for free thiamine, free riboflavin, pyridoxal, dehydroascorbic acid, and lipid profile in DHM. In conclusion, the diet and nutritional status of donors influences the fatty acid profile and micronutrient content of DHM.
Precision Medicine in Erythropoietin Deficiency and Treatment Resistance: A Novel Approach in management of Anemia of Chronic Kidney Disease
Authors: Yugavathy Nava , Abdullah Bashar Mudhaffar , Lim Soo Kun , Abdul Gafor Abdul Halim Bin , Wong Muh Geot , Bavanandan Sunita , Wong Hin Seng , Huri Hasniza Zaman
Published: June 2023

Anemia is a well-developed discipline where the concepts of precision medicine have, in part and being studied extensively. This review discusses the treatment of EPO-deficient anemia and resistance in Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD). Traditionally, erythropoietin-stimulating agents (ESA) and iron supplementation have been used to manage anemia in CKD. However, these treatments have potential risks, including cardiovascular and thromboembolic events. Newer treatments have emerged to address these risks, such as slow-release and low-dosage intravenous iron, oral iron, and erythropoietin-iron combination therapy. Another novel approach is using hypoxia-inducible factor prolyl hydroxylase inhibitors (HIF-PHI). This review highlights the need for precision medicine targeting genetic components of EPO-deficient anemia in CKD and discusses individual variability of genes such as the erythropoietin gene (EPO), Interleukin-β gene (IL-β), and hypoxia-inducible factor gene (HIF). Pharmacogenomics testing aims to provide targeted therapies and interventions that are tailored to the specific characteristics of an individual, optimizing treatment outcomes and minimizing resistance and adverse effects. The article concludes by suggesting the potential of receptor modification to revolutionize treatment outcome of erythropoietin deficiency anemia through integration of the mentioned approach.
Association of Helicobacter pylori Infection With Autoimmune Thyroid Disease in the Female Gender
Authors: Dore Maria Pina , Fanciulli Giuseppe , Manca Alessandra , Pes Giovanni Mario
Published: June 2023

Background. Helicobacter pylori infection has long been suspected to increase the risk of thyroid diseases but evidence from literature is conflicting. In a cohort of patients from Northern Sardinia, Italy, who underwent upper endoscopy, we investigated the association between current and long-lasting Helicobacter pylori infection and thyroid disease, both autoimmune and non-autoimmune, by adjusting for potential confounds. Methods. By using multivariable logistic regression we analyzed a cohort of 8490 adults aged 6–93 years: 730 were diagnosed with autoimmune thyroid disease (AITD) and 448 with nonautoimmune thyroid diseases. Results. We found a significant association between H. pylori long-lasting infection and AITD independently of age, sex, body mass index, smoke, hypertension and dyslipidemia (OR 1.42; 95%CI 1.20‒1.66) while the opposite was found regarding current infection (OR 0.75; 95%CI 0.63‒0.89). Current infection was not significantly associated to non-autoimmune thyroiditis. Conclusions. H. pylori infection is an independent risk factor for AITD in the population of Northern Sardinia, therefore it is advisable to eradicate the pathogen in subjects at risk of AITD.
Homocysteine Metabolites Impair the Phf8/H4K20me1/mTOR/Autophagy Pathway by Upregulating the Expression of PHF8-targeting miR-22-3p and miR-1229-3p in Human Vascular Endothelial Cells
Authors: Witucki Łukasz , Jakubowski Hieronim
Published: June 2023

The inability to efficiently metabolize homocysteine (Hcy), which occurs in nutritional and genetic deficiencies, leads to hyperhomocysteinemia (HHcy) thereby causing endothelial dysfunction, a hallmark of atherosclerosis which underpins cardiovascular disease (CVD). The dysregulation of mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling, and impaired autophagy play important roles in CVD. Biochemically, HHcy is characterized by elevated levels of Hcy and its metabolites, Hcy-thiolactone (HTL) and N-Hcy-protein (N-Hcy). However, whether these metabolites can dysregulate mTOR signaling and autophagy in endothelial cells is not known. Here, we examined the influence of HTL, N-Hcy, and Hcy on the PHF8/H4K20me1/mTOR/autophagy pathway in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC). We found that treatments with HTL, N-Hcy, or Hcy significantly reduced PHF8 protein and mRNA expression, increased H4K20me1, and upregulated mTOR signaling. Autophagy was also impaired (significantly downregulated BECN1, ATG5, ATG7, and LC3 protein and mRNA levels). We also found that these changes were mediated by PHF8-targeting microRNA (miR): miR-22-3p and miR-1229-3p. The effects of HTL, N-Hcy, or Hcy on the miR expression and on the PHF8/H4K20me1/mTOR/autophagy pathway were abrogated by treatments with an inhibitor of miR-22 or miR-1229. Taken together, these findings show that Hcy metabolites can upregulate miR-22-3p and miR-1229-3p expression, which then dysregulate the PHF8/H4K20me1/mTOR/autophagy pathway, important for vascular homeostasis.
Identification and Factor Analysis of Traffic Conflicts in the Merge Area of Freeway Work Zone
Authors: WANG Pan , ZHU Ying Shun , ZHAO Yue Xiao
Published: June 2023

The merge areas of freeway work zones include relatively significant safety hazards that have continuously led to urgent safety issues to be solved by the management departments. In order to make up for the cumbersome process of independent identification of rear-end collision and lane change collision on complex road sections, an appropriate identification method of traffic conflicts in the merge area of freeway work zone was explored, this study collected vehicle running tracking data from the merge areas of multiple work zones, using an unmanned aerial vehicle video technique. Based on an inter-frame difference method and the principle of a spatio-temporal context visual tracking algorithm, the vehicles were detected and tracked, and the coordinate data of the vehicles in continuous motion were parsed using MATLAB extension tools. Based on the behavior characteristics of vehicle conflict avoidance, a new identification method for evading severe traffic conflicts is proposed according to the initial velocity, acceleration and accident rate of section traffic. Then, a statistical analysis was performed on the spatial distribution characteristics of the traffic conflicts in typical merge areas. The impacts of the road conditions in work zones, vehicle factors, and traffic flow factors on the traffic conflicts were analyzed. A binomial logistic model was established to identify the main influencing factors. The results show that in the merge area of the freeway work zone, there are serious traffic conflicts between vehicles in the following two situations: (Ⅰ) v∈[7,13.5] m/s and a∈[-3.96,-0.65]m/s2; and (Ⅱ) v∈[13.5,24.3] m/s, and a∈[-3.96,-1.57] m/s2. The probabilities of serious traffic conflicts in the first and last 25 m of the merge area are greater than those in the other sections. The smaller the space between the upstream work zone and the merge area, the greater the probability of serious traffic conflicts between vehicles. When the average vehicle speed is relatively high, the probability of serious conflicts is the highest, i.e., by a multiple of 5.95 from the baseline. Moreover, the probability of serious conflicts between vehicles is higher for larger vehicles, i.e., 4.765 times that for small vehicles. The research results can serve as a reference for freeway management departments to improve the safety levels of merge areas during road work. For example, the probability of serious conflicts can be effectively reduced by setting up reasonable speed limit signs in the work zone, increasing the spacing between work zone and merge area, and appropriately diverting large vehicles.
The Fertility Outcome of Addition of Assisted Oocyte Activation Into Spindle View-Assisted Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection in Patients With Low Fertilization Rate
Authors: Lo Wei-Che , Lin Chieh-Yu , Li Chia-Jung , Hou Chiung-Hui , Dai Lin-Hsuan , Wu Hsien-Ming
Published: June 2023

Is there any possible synergic effect of fertility outcome between spindle view-assisted intracyto-plasmic sperm injection (SV-ICSI) with or without assisted oocyte activation (AOA) for patients with low fertilization rate history? To explore the answer, a retrospective study was held in our fertility center by reviewing patients receiving SV-ICSI during 2019/03 to 2023/06. Total 47 pa-tients were included, the fertility outcomes of intervention group (AOA-SV-ICSI, 14 patients) and control group (SV-ICSI, 33 patients), such as fertilization rate, blastocyst formation rate and clin-ical pregnancy rate, were analyzed. The blastocyst formation rate between groups was signifi-cantly higher in AOA-SV-ICSI group (p=0.020), but the fertilization rate and clinical pregnancy rate did not reach any statistical significance. This discovery of increased blastocyst formation rate in low fertilization rate patients could possibly help them in getting more usable embryos in fertility treatment.
Inhibitory Effect Evaluation of Nigella sativa Oil Loaded to Liposomal Nanocarriers against Candida parapsilosis Isolates
Authors: Ghiaee Shamloo Ardalan , Yadegari Mohammad Hossein , Jaafari Mahmoud Reza , Zarrinfar Hossein
Published: June 2023

The aim of current study is adjusted and synthesized liposomal compound of N. sativa and evaluation its antifungal properties against C. parapsilosis isolates. Fifteen clinical isolates of C. parapsilosis complex isolates were obtained from hospitalized patients affected by candidemia in Mashhad city, Iran, along with a reference strain of C. parapsilosis (ATCC 22019) were assessed by flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF) method, as described previously. N. sativa is encapsulated in liposomal Nanocariers by using thin film hydration technique. At the beginning liposomal nanoparticles was characterized and confirmed with the dynamic light scattering technique (DLS) and Transmission electron microscopy. Then minimum inhibitory concentration of liposomal N. sativa oil was conducted with the CLSI M27 A3 protocol and finally Cytotoxicity function of N. sativa oil liposomal nanocarriers on PBMCs was investigated and confirmed with MTT assay by the results of this research N. sativa oil-Lip-NP didn’t show any toxic effect on PBMCs and The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) range of free N. sativa oil and liposomal formulation with inhibitory effects on candida isolates was between 128 - 8, 250 - 31.25 µg ml also MIC50 and MIC90 were 125,187 and 32,96, µg ml respectively. Due to the hydrophobicity and hydrophilicity, biocompatibility, particle size, non-toxic effect, and higher cell viability of N. sativa oil -Lip-NP, it could be considered a more effective approach to treating fungal infections.
Building a Teleost Fish Traceability Program Based on Genetic Data from Pacific Panama Fish Markets
Authors: Díaz-Ferguson Edgardo Enrique , De Chial Magaly Sánchez , González Torres Maribel Arlene , Muñoz T. Edgardo A. , Chen Magister Olga , Durán Ovidio , Vega Angel Javier , Delgado Carlos Ramos
Published: June 2023

Fish tissue samples from 203 adult individuals were collected in the main ports and markets of the Pacific coast of Panama. Molecular identification based on cytochrome oxidase I gene segment of all species was verified GENBANK reference sequences. 34 species from 14 families (Ariidae, Lutjanidae, Caranjidae, Scianidae, Centropomidae, Serranidae, Scombridae, Sphyraenidae, Haemulidae, Gerreidae, Stromotidae, Lobotidae, Malacanthidae, Mugilidae) were identified at species molecular level from 164 sequences. Also, three Caribbean species were molecularly identified among the analyzed samples (Mycteroperca xenarcha, Paralonchurus brasilensis and Lobotes surinamensis). Species diversity was slightly higher in the Gulf of Panama than in the Gulf of Chiriquí. For species with 5 or more individual sequences, genetic diversity and genetic connectivity parameters such as: total number of haplotypes (H), haplotype diversity (Hd), and nucleotide diversity (π) were calculated. Overall, pelagic-migratory species showed higher values of genetic diversity than coastal and estuarine species with some exceptions. Connectivity between Gulf areas was compared using values of genetic distances and genetic differentiation (Fst). High level of connectivity observed between Gulf of Chiriqui and Gulf of Montijo indicates the existence of a single stock in that area for the following species: Scomberomorus sierra, Caranx caninus and Lutjanus guttatus. Demographic history of the most common species was examined using Tajima’s D values suggesting population expansion for two snapper species, L. peru and L. argentiventris, having significant and higher values. Another important contribution from this research was the production of primers and dual labeled probes for environmental DNA detection using qPCR for the five most abundant species (spotted rose snapper, yellow snapper, green jack, Pacific crevalle jack and the Pacific sierra fish). These markers represent a new set of tools for environmental DNA (eDNA) detection and molecular traceability of three commercially important fish species along the supply chain including landing sites and markets of the main fishery areas.
Low Sleep Hygiene Is Associated with Less Adherence to the Mediterranean Diet in Chilean Schoolchildren from Rural Public Schools. A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Zapata-Lamana Rafael , Ibarra-Mora Jessica , Carrasco-Marín Fernanda , Durán-Agüero Samuel , Cuevas-Aburto Jorge , Parra-Rizo Maria Antonia , Cigarroa Igor
Published: June 2023

the main objective was to determine the association between sleep hygiene and adherence to the Mediterranean diet in Chilean schoolchildren from rural public schools in southern Chile. Non-experimental, analytical, cross-sectional study. A total of 265 students (56.6% women, mean age 13.5±1.8) from a rural community in southern Chile were recruited. Sleep habits were evaluated with the Life Habits and Adolescence Questionnaire, section 6: Sleep and Rest; and adherence to the Mediterranean diet was assessed with the KIDMED Mediterranean Diet Adherence Questionnaire. Main results indicated that 52.8% of schoolchildren need to improve adherence to the Mediterranean diet and 16.6% have a low-quality Mediterranean diet. A high percentage of schoolchildren have behaviors related to poor sleep hygiene (going to bed late (46%), waking up tired and wanting to continue sleeping (63.8% and having problems falling asleep (42.6%). schoolchildren who got up after 8:30 a.m., those who fell asleep after 12:00 a.m., those who woke up tired and those who had trouble falling asleep had a lower level of adherence to the Mediterranean diet compared to schoolchildren who got up earlier 8:30 a.m., fell asleep before 12:00 a.m., did not wake up tired, and those who did not find it difficult to fall asleep, respectively. In conclusion, having poor sleep hygiene is associated with less adherence to the Mediterranean diet in schoolchildren from rural public schools in southern Chile. It is important to monitor these variables in schoolchildren, as well as to promote healthy lifestyle habits within the educational community.
Self-Esteem, Self-Efficacy, and Smoking Prevalence among Medical Students: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Licu Monica , Ionescu Claudiu Gabriel , Suciu Maria
Published: June 2023

: BACKGROUND: The prevalence of smoking among students is a growing concern, particular-ly among medical students. Being associated with stress, competitiveness, and various social in-fluences, smoking can have detrimental effects on self-esteem and self-efficacy and may create a vicious cycle that may contribute to students’ well-being and academic performance out-comes.METHODS: A cross-sectional study on 456 medical students was conducted via an online survey using structured questionnaires on socio-demographic characteristics, smoking habits, nicotine dependence, self-esteem, and self-efficacy. RESULTS: The prevalence of smoking was 31.1% The scores of self-esteem and self-efficacy were positively correlated with smoking habits (W1=0.957, W2=0.975, P<0.05). Students presented rather low smoking addiction with male stu-dents having slightly higher scores than female students on self-esteem and self-efficacy, mili-tary students had higher self-esteem scores than civilians with physical activity having a posi-tive correlation with non-smoking behavior. CONCLUSION: According to our results, self-esteem and self-efficacy were slightly positively correlated with smoking habits. Furthermore, there was no statistically significant association between other social factors and smoking. Our results may develop a theoretical basis for medical students’ psychological variables studying for further implementation of university educational programs and preventive interventions em-powering students towards an overall better quality of life, addressing, among others, smoking behaviors.